CubsChic

The Cubs ended their regular season home schedule in fine fashion by sweeping the Pirates. Zambrano pitched as if he’d heard people refer to Lilly as the Cubs’ go-to pitcher. He struck out the first four batters and was pitching so quickly it looked like he had somewhere else to be. He gave up only three harmless singles before leaving after six innings with cramps in his pitching arm. He’s had these cramps before, so no one seems overly concerned about them, but it would be nice to see him stay in the game when he’s so dominant. Luckily the bullpen was able to come in and pick up where he left off. Wood (2 innings) and Wuertz (1 inning) pitched hitless ball and each struck out three.

Everyone seems to be peaking at the right time. The atmosphere at Wrigley has prepared the team for playoff pressure. I just want the Cubs to win at least 2 of 3 in each of the next two series. I’d hate to back into the playoffs because the Brewers continue to lose. Don’t get me wrong, I’d take it either way, but I’d rather the Cubs win their way in. The Cubs are now also ten games over .500, with the same number of wins that St. Louis had at the end of last year (83).

I had decided not to start the magic number countdown until the final week of the season, but I had no idea that it would drop so quickly; with the Cubs winning six of seven and the Brewers losing four of five. The magic number, or the number of Cubs wins combined with Brewers losses that would guarantee the Cubs the Division, now stands at 4. So doable, but the team seems to have the right attitude. They’re not there yet and need to take care of business before they can celebrate.

I’m tempted to roadtrip to Cincinnati for the season-ending series, but I’ll have to be content to watch the games on tv. I just hope that Ronnie is healthy enough to make the roadtrip. Dave Otto is an adequate temporary replacement, but I really want Ronnie in the booth if and when the Cubs clinch.