A Win and a Loss
Last night’s great win came at a cost, as the Cubs lost the services of Soriano due to a broken finger. He’ll be out until the All-Star break at least, they’re guessing about six weeks right now. Although I’ve been hard on him, Soriano has been productive offensively of late, so his teammates will have to step up to the plate, literally. The last time he was sidelined, the Cubs went 8-4, so it’s not all doom and gloom.
The Soriano injury shouldn’t overshadow the great outing by Dempster. His first complete game in six years, Dempster gave up only four hits, struck out eleven and walked none. He got a chance to close out a game for the first time since leaving the closer spot and returning to the starting rotation. All of those fans who couldn’t stand him as a closer are loving him now.
With the injury to Soriano combined with the upcoming roadtrip to American League cities, where the designated hitter will be used, the Cubs have brought up both Hoffpauir and (Eric) Patterson. This will give Lou flexibility to rest Lee and Ramirez while using them as DHs. Patterson will probably lead off in place of Soriano. Hart was sent down to Triple-A to make room on the roster, as the Cubs could no longer afford to carry thirteen pitchers.