Spring Training Journal

Ho Lotta Fun - Windy City Weekend

2009-06-15T21:53:00.027-07:00

It sure would have been fun to be at Sunday's walk-off Cubs victory over the Twins on a beautiful sunny Chicago day; however I was on a plane back to Arizona. Instead the Mesa Hohokams and my family witnessed a couple less than stellar performances by the Cubs in two losses to the small market pests from Minneapolis last Friday and Saturday.

My party joining the Hohokams on their annual trip to Chicago consisted of two Wrigley Field rookies, (my mom and brother Todd), along with my beautiful wife Theresa.

Mom, Todd, Theresa and me

I won't go into each game and the reasons why the Cubs lost, you probably saw the games on TV or read about them, so instead I'll offer up some observations from my two days at Wrigley Field and then tell a bit about the long weekend we spent in Chicago.

Friday was the Milton Bradley game...like many fans at the park who were paying attention to the game, the split second I saw Milton striking a pose after catching the fly ball I knew he thought their were three outs...talk about a one of a kind souvenir for whoever caught that tossed Bradley baseball. While Bradley's mathematical misstep didn't cost the Cubs anything in terms of runs scored, the Milton moment felt like a microcosm of the Cubs play this season...unfocused.

Before the game we took the El Train up to Wrigley from our downtown hotel, this is where we first noticed a lot of Twins fans. Once off the train in Wrigleyville it was apparent that Twins fans had circled this series on the calendar as soon as they saw the schedule and made plans for the 6 hour plus drive from the Twin Cities. Who can blame them with limited opportunities to see their team play at one of baseball's historic shrines. I have watched baseball games at the Metrodome, and it's the anti-Wrigley with carpet instead of grass and plastic baggies in place of Ivy. It wasn't apparent to me just how many Twinkie fans where there until Saturday because of our Friday Wrigley seating accommodations.

View from the Batters Eye Suite during Friday's BP

I have talked about the batters eye suite (the black glass windows below the scoreboard) in the past on this blog and that's where the Hohokams have been stationed in the first game of the annual trip since the suite was built a few years back. Watching a Cubs game at Wrigley Field in the batters eye suite is kinda like eating a Chicago Dog made out of tofu - you don't quite get the full experience. Sure, it's a nice set-up having your own private bar, food buffet, TV screens, private rest rooms, and someone serving you, no doubt these are true luxuries at Wrigley but with comfort comes the loss of ambiance. Part of that is not having a full view of the outfield or being able to hear the crowd outside the box. It feels a bit disconnected from the fans and the game which is what makes Wrigley...well, Wrigley.

Unlike other suites at the friendly confines the batters eye has no outside the suite seating so you must exit the bunker and walk around, (which we did) to get a feel for the game, but without a seat outside the bunker you can't really watch the game action. At any rate, I'm not ungrateful or complaining for a second, I was thrilled and lucky to be there. I'm just giving my impressions of this particular suite and game experience. Of course my brother insists that the ease of having rapid replenishment of malted barley and hops beverages makes up for any and all other shortcomings.

Cubs management including Chairman Crane Kenney, Executive Vice President of baseball Operations Mark McGuire and GM Jim Hendry made the obligatory stop out to the suite to chat with the Hohokam group during Friday's game.

Robert Brinton, who is the "Big Ho" of the Hohokam and President of the Cactus League as well as Executive Director of the Mesa Convention and Visitors Bureau, threw a ceremonial pitch prior the game and talked with Len Kasper and Bob Brenly on WGN promoting spring training in AZ.

The Mesa Hohokams at Wrigley June 12, black windows of bunker upper left

I also chatted with Robert during the game and found out negotiations are still going on with the Cubs, City of Mesa, and the Hohokams regarding spring training activities and finances. Expect the powers that be for the City of Mesa and the Hohokams to find the funding for upgrades at Fitch Park and Hohokam Stadium...don't plan on the Cubs leaving Mesa anytime soon. A big topic of the congenial dialog surrounds ways to increase revenue during the spring season...hard to believe, I know.

One of the ideas floated was that of increasing the price of game day parking at Hohokam...don't get upset just yet, a feasibility study would most likely have to be done and it's only an idea at this point.

Seeing Twins star Joe Mauer hit a HR on Friday wasn't all that surprising because he had 12 coming into the game, but number 13 at Wrigley on June 12 was different. This number 13 tied the career season HR high for the St. Paul Minnesota native. While Mauer has always had a natural swing he had lacked power for a player of his size. It looks like this is the year his power numbers catch up with the rest of his game, his slugging average is currently .743.

Thinking back to the 2001 draft, the Twins who had the number one pick were roundly criticized for passing on a can't miss MLB ready pitcher because of the money it would take to sign the college hurling sensation - Mark Prior. They picked hometown high school catcher Mauer while the Cubs with the number two pick chose Mark Prior. Makes me wonder what would have happened if the Twins had picked Mark Prior instead...we'll never know.

Many Twins fans in the bleachers sported these ferocious baby blue T-shirts

Friday night we attended the premiere of the Cubs documentary movie "We Believe" at the historic Chicago Theatre. I'll post a separate review on the film in another blog this week.

Saturday's game saw Rich Harden pitching after his stint on the DL taking the mound against a 23 year old Twins pitcher named Swarzak who was 1-2 with a 5.23 ERA.

The weather was not very good, cold with rain and drizzle all morning delaying the start of the game. Before the game we ended up ducking into a bar on Clark called The Stretch mainly because we saw open tables and wanted to get out of the rain. Ended up having a having a very tasty omelet for breakfast while being served by the equally tasty female wait staff who would put any Hooters bar to shame...I don't want that last comment taken as sexist I'm just trying to paint an observant picture for the sake of blogging accuracy. The Stretch staff should also be commended for timely and cheerful service...as well as their smokin hotness...hey, I'm only human.

We had outstanding seats for this game, section 122 just to the first base side of home plate. It would have been perfect except for the weather and the Cubs hitting or lack of. The weather cleared during the game but the Cubs stayed cold at the plate losing 2-0...Harden pitched well but got a big fat 'L' for the effort.

Being outside in the stands on Saturday was when I could tell how many Twins fans were at Wrigley as they chanted 'MVP' when Mauer was at the plate. The Twins Jason Kubel who hit a long HR over the right field bleachers onto Sheffield got a "Let's - go - Ku-bel" chant when he was at the plate, "Let's - go - Ku-bel"...you've got to be kidding me...I just shook my head. Some Cubs season ticket holders I talked to said they couldn't remember other teams ever having as many fans at Wrigley, certainly not as vocal. Guess now we know what it's like for opponents when the Cubs play on the road and Cubbie fans permeate the stands.

Chicago's finest on horseback in Grant Park

One of the things we wanted to do while in Chicago was listen to some Blues music and our timing for the trip couldn't have been better as the Chicago Blues Festival was going on in Grant Park. So after the game we headed down to the festival, the weather was still a bit cool but it had become sunny and made for a fantastic evening. Part of the fun of a festival like this, apart from the music is people watching and Grant Park did not disappoint. We decided to walk back from the Blues Festival to the hotel and that's when the people watching got really interesting and I mean eye bulging, jaw dropping interesting.

Chicago Blues Festival at Grant Park

We heard this commotion down Michigan Avenue towards the river, police sirens (nothing unusual about that in Chicago) but as the noises got closer and louder I see the police clearing the way for a whole precession of bike riders...bicycles not Harleys. I'm thinking that''s pretty cool having a race or charity ride down the Miracle Mile so I step to the median to get a photo. That's when I noticed something different about these bikers, they were naked...yes sir...nude, in the buff, many clad only in shoes and socks.

I'm giving you a few of my 'stylized' versions of the bikers to keep it PG-13

Talk about the proverbial double take, I think I have a touch of whiplash from it. Hundreds of women and men, with all parts of the human anatomy exposed to the cool night air just rolling by, honking bike horns and whooping it up to the stares and grins of amazed bystanders most of whom like me seemed to have no idea what was going on. To be honest they were not all completely naked, they had varying degrees of clothing some just wearing bottoms, some wearing bras and panties, some wearing nothing but a mask on their face but all seemed to be having a great time. Did I say Chicago was my kind of town?

Trust me 'stylized' versions are much better, sometimes reality isn't pretty

Later after a google search I found out it was the World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR) - An international clothing-optional bike (or other person powered) event where participants ride en masse for the dual purpose of bringing attention to people powered transport and promoting positive body image. Their slogan is "Celebrating the end of oil and the beauty of people." Sounds good, just remind me to never rent a bike in this town; you don't know where it may have been.

Michigan Avenue surprise

Our time in Chicago was short, arriving on Thursday afternoon and leaving early Sunday morning but we packed a lot in while there...Reuniting with my spring training friends the Hohokams, eating Chicago style pizza at Giordano's, walking down to Navy Pier, breakfast at Tempo Cafe, stopping at a 1970's and 80's bar called the Reagle Beagle where we testing a few of their specialty drinks like the Mr. Tea (similar to a Long Island just more expensive) and the Caddyshack Attack which according to the menu is Van Gogh Vanilla, Grey Goose L'Orange, White Creme De Cocoa, Triple Sec, Blue Curacao, with a Baby Ruth candy bar...Oh Mrs. Crane, you're a little monkey woman.

We didn't end up going on the Architectural Cruise but visiting the Chicago Theatre was an architectural experience I won't forget, what an amazing building...and what a fun and fantastic city Chicago is.

The Cubs lost both games we attended but I did get to see the final innings of the Sunday win on WGN-TV after getting back to AZ. The clubs animated celebration after the victory seemed an exhale of emotions, finally getting a clutch win after losing many close ones. Perhaps the players will start to relax now and just have some fun and hit like they're capable. A winning series against the Sox and strong run before the All-Star game would give the Cubs more confidence and put them in good position for another Central title when A-Ram returns for the second half. At least that's my hope...

Check back this week for my thoughts on the new Cubs documentary "We Believe". I have a few more of my photos from the trip below.

Go Cubs!

T

Chillin to the blues

Millennium Park Gardens

Amphitheater at Millennium Park

Millennium Park Bean

Hello Chicago

2009-06-09T15:30:00.013-07:00

As mentioned in my last blog, I'll be joining the Hohokams on their annual trip to Chicago...that means I'll be seeing two games at Wrigley, this Friday and Saturday against the Minnesota Twins. Seeing the Cubs play in the friendly confines is really one of my absolute favorite things to do.

Yes, I know this Cubs team isn't playing as well as last year but don't judge the team's success by what they do in April, May, and June. As long as they don't fall too far back in the standings a strong finish in August and September is what really matters...Oh, and October, yeah, it would be nice to finish that month strong.

Reading some of the Cubs blogs and message boards around the net it seems there is an extra bit of angst among the faithful right now. As Cubs fans we can't expect to sail through the 2009 season with the team kickin arse and taking no prisoners like last year. Things are never that easy and it could very well prove to be even more difficult and trying before it's all over. This looks like a season where Lou Piniella is going to truly earn his money. This team has injuries and other issues so if Lou can keep this group together and get into the playoffs, that would be making a statement.

My friend Shepps over at Cubscast.com just wrote a blog, kinda playing Cubs GM for the day and detailing his views on the roster in "The Jim Hendry Scorecard".

Of course the recent big news in Cubdom is the expected announced retirement of Sammy Sosa, some of you like me were probably thinking "is he still playing?"..."big news" was sarcasm in case you missed it. Over at collegeofidiots.com Ginger Russ blogged yesterday about Slammin Sammy and his legacy, good stuff.

I may attend the premiere of the new Cubs documentary "We Believe" this Friday while in Chicago at the historic Chicago Theatre, if I do go I'll give you a review of the film on my return to AZ. This doc was made with backing or I should say, permission of the Cubs and MLB, so I hope it's more than just a long advertisement promoting the team.

I'll also upload some of my photos from the Chicago trip next week when I return from the windy city...like I did last season when I took my dad on the trip. (Blog from July 14, 2008)

Might get to see Rich Harden pitch on Saturday against the Twins so that could be interesting, it would be nice if he could get it going again.

Talk with you next week.

T

Calling Iowa

2009-05-27T10:29:00.007-07:00

It's been a while since I last blogged, as most of you know when the Cubs leave AZ after spring training my frequency of posts diminishes. This is by design and necessity, when the Cubs are here in AZ I have the access to provide what most of us die-hard Cubs fans want, photos, videos, and first hand information on the team's activities in the desert. The necessity is me catching up on things that fell by the wayside due to the time expended on the Cubs during spring training; as well as the need to devote more time to the running of my video production company.

Good to see the Cubs finally put up the 'W' again last night, doesn't matter if it's rain shortened or 14 innings it's still one in the win column...hopefully the start of some steady winning baseball. The Neal Cotts experiment is over, at least for now, and Andres Blanco is up from Iowa and put right into today's lineup at second base. Blanco had a very nice spring and should see some playing time with Aaron Miles going to the DL. Big Jake Fox may also see big league game action after tearing up AAA, where and when Lou plays Fox remains to be seen.

I'm getting very excited about coming to Chicago on the Hohokam's annual trip in June and getting the opportunity to see a couple games at Wrigley! Also planning on doing the Architectural Cruise for the first time. It will be a quick trip of only 4 days but any amount of relief from the summer 100 degree plus heat in AZ is appreciated.

I watched the "My Boys" season finale on TBS with Mike Fontenot and Micah Hoffpauir that was filmed in AZ during spring training. In case you don't know (I didn't, until they came to Hohokam) the show revolves around a group of friends, a couple of which are Chicago sports writers. Last night they had a montage scene where I saw several of our Hohokam spring training regulars, organist George Kiefer, Mark the Beer Guy, etc. but during the extended game scene sequence I noticed one thing missing...stadium public address sounds. While I never thought my voice would be a part of the show like it was in a scene from the movie "This Old Cub", I though perhaps it might be heard in the background similar to when WGN broadcasts from Hohokam...no such luck...c'est la vie.

I'm keeping an eye on WGN and today's game, it's a tight one...Big Z just got ejected with the score 2-2 in the 7th, Z did his own version of tossing the ump. Nice catch going into the Ivy by Reed Johnson. We'll see if the Cubs can pull this one out and make it two 'W's in a row.

Play Ball on My Time

2009-04-20T15:44:00.011-07:00

After a couple days without a Cubs game it's time to get these guys back on the field and finish the month of April strong.

I'm usually an early adopter of most technologies but for some reason I hadn't had DVR/Tivo until finally getting it after last baseball season. The ability to record programs and not have to watch commercials as well as the convenience of watching things on your own schedule is smart TV viewing at it's best. So this is my first baseball season with DVR and it's true brilliance came into play last Friday and Saturday with the Cubs games.

Friday I was working from my home office, with DVR I watched the Cubs game when I got a free minute or two. And what a game it was, after the 3d inning the Cubs seemingly always looking at a deficit, until Soriano and then Marmol put the birds away for good. The beauty of this is; I was able to work a full day and watch a commercial shortened version of the game in time to take advantage of a beautiful AZ spring afternoon/evening to visit Tortilla Flat.

When compiling the list of "Things to do in AZ" page here at Boys of Spring I realized that it had been a long time since I had been to some of the cool places listed on the page...Some I'd never been to. So I decided to head out to Tortilla Flat east of Mesa, I had been on this road many years ago when most of it was still gravel and on that trip came across a huge Tarantula sitting in the middle of the road. The picturesque drive to Tortilla goes NE out old Hwy 88 past Canyon Lake and is only about 40 minutes from my house. I had to take advantage of perfect weather, sunny with a high of about 78 degrees...It has since warmed up, high of 98 (ouch) expected today. At any rate I was able to work and watch the Cubs victory then be on the road to Tortilla by about 5 pm. I'm posting a few photos of the drive.

My only issue with the trip was missing some of the evening sunset because I had decided to go all the way to Apache Lake which is about 15 miles past Tortilla Flat, at least 10 of those miles on a very bumpy winding one lane dirt road hugging the side of mountains. By the time I was headed back from Apache and had ascended the switch backs up from Fish Creek the best sunset shots were lost.

The last 10 miles to Apache Lake made me wonder who in their right mind would think that a road should be built here and then go ahead and build it. I heard the road had been used as an old pony express route, not true, I found out it was built in 1904 in order to build the dam at Roosevelt Lake. By the looks of it the road is much the same as it was in 1904 except now you get the fun of meeting oncoming trucks on this one lane gravel road with sheer drops of thousands of feet. Don't let that scare you, the drive to Tortilla Flat is all 2 lane blacktop and pretty easy going, well worth a day or half day trip...Find out how Tortilla Flat got it's name and more info with links on our "Things to do in AZ" page.

The DVR did it for me again on Saturday as I got many things accomplished while enjoying the Cubs exciting 11 inning victory on MY time...How did I ever live without this device? Friday and Saturday's Cubs/Cards games were incredible, so many ups and downs and sub-plots and in the end sweet wins against the arch-rival evil doers. It won't be long until the Cubs are here to play the D-Backs and I'll be at at least one of those games. Go Cubs!

Canyon Lake on the way to Tortilla Flat

It's fun to ski or board and look up at the Canyon walls

This is pretty much the only business in Tortilla Flat, town population 6

I can't tell you if it's "good food" or not, didn't eat there

The road to Apache Lake, this was an easy driving spot

On the way you must cross several one lane bridges

A glimpse of Apache Lake

Sun on cliffs above Apache Lake

On the way back looking at Canyon Lake after sunset

Problems Already?

2009-04-16T10:08:00.007-07:00

The Cubs are 8 games and 10 days into the 2009 season and what have we learned about this year's club? According to some fans, Marmol needs to replace Gregg as the closer, Milton Bradley is going to be a waste of money, and Aaron Miles is no Mark DeRosa. While these topics may be debate fodder on Cubs message boards across the Internet it's really way to early to draw any such conclusions. More time to see how things develop is probably wise considering these guys will be playing regular season games for pretty close to the next 6 months. However, the next 10 games could give some interesting insight as to the Central Division pecking order.

The Cubs (5-3) are a game behind the Cardinals (7-3), with the two teams playing 7 of the next 10 games against each other. It's a big early season stretch for these rivals, while Milton Bradley may miss a few more games the Cubs want to take advantage of Cards pitcher Chris Carpenter going on the DL and take early control of the division. Will the same Gregg, Bradley, Miles chorus be sung by these fans ten games from now? If not, my guess is they will find a new set of Cubs problems to bring up...If the Cubs struggle during this stretch we may be examining those issues but if they are playing well, it's a lot more fun to talk about the positives.

It's just about time to put a beat down on the birds with The Marshall on the mound.

Go Cubs!

George Castle and Sweet Lou

2009-04-09T10:24:00.007-07:00

A good first series in Houston with the Cubs bats showing up last night to take the final game and 2 of 3 from the Astros. Good to see Dome bust out at the plate, I may have been a bit hard on him in my profile blurb the other day...but like last season, time will tell. Since the Cubs have today off before starting an important set at Wrigley North tomorrow, I thought I would bring you this interview.

Just before the regular season got underway I had the chance to talk with George Castle who wrote the book Sweet Lou and the Cubs. If you're not familiar with Castle, he's covered the Cubs since 1980 for various newspapers and magazines, including the Times of Northwest Indiana. He's written eight books and hosts a nationally syndicated weekly radio show about baseball called Diamond Gems.

As the back cover of the book indicates - "Sweet Lou and the Cubs chronicles from the inside out Lou Piniella's stirring and poignant quest to reverse the team's fortunes after the record 100 years without a World Series championship."

Sure we know how last season ended but this book is about a lot more than that, giving plenty of inside information about Lou and some of his key players as well as coaches, front office, and fans. I particularly enjoyed reading about the things that molded Piniella in his early years to make him the type of manager he is today. This isn't a Cubs sugar coated feel good story, however if you're like me and want the inside scoop on what's really happening behind the scenes, this book is for you.

This is a phone interview (NO VIDEO) it runs 12:45 long, if you hear something in the background about 2/3's of the way through it's George's basset hound.

No Predictions, Just Cubs

2009-04-07T08:39:00.018-07:00

Getting ready for game 2 after yesterdays sweet victory in Houston, Big Z got the opening day monkey off his back and the Cubs are off and running. I was asked to give my predictions for the season and really it's such a crap shoot, most of us know what teams have talent and what teams may struggle. So many variables that like my NCAA basketball pool some picks would be right and some wrong so I'll leave the predictions to the experts in Vegas and instead focus on the Cubs.

I decided it would be more prudent to talk about the Cubs roster as we go into the 2009 season and mention how some of them did this spring. Spring training numbers can be tossed out the window but in some cases it just gives you an idea of how certain players fared, nothing more. These are my short blurbs about each player after having watched them in person for the last month and a half, probably nothing earth shattering but maybe some useful info.

This follows in alphabetical order starting with the pitchers.

Pitchers

Neal Cotts - The only lefty in the Cubs pen unless Sean Marshall is used in that capacity. Had a so-so spring but is a veteran who came to camp in good physical condition. Cotts will be counted on to get key outs in tough situations. He can be a bit inconsistent and the Cubs hope he's more like the 2005 1.94 ERA Neal Cotts than the 2006 5.17 version.

Ryan Dempster - Was very solid this spring, pitching the most innings of any Cubs pitcher, and like last spring came to camp in great shape. Nobody works harder than Dempster. He's a big key to the Cubs fortunes this season and looks ready for another strong year.

Kevin Gregg - Won the closing competition over Carlos Marmol who was MIA for alot of camp with the WBC. Gregg was lights out this spring not surrendering a single run and is completely healthy from his bad knee that hampered him last year. Gregg is another big strong Cubs pitcher who can hit the mid to upper 90's and should prove an effective closer.

Angel Guzman - Came into spring training in the best shape of his career, added a few pounds in muscle. Like Cotts he was up and down this spring, the Cubs have invested a lot of time and effort into Guzman and it's time for him to perform. He has teased with his live arm but struggled with injuries, hopefully this is the year he meets expectations.

Rich Harden - Started out behind the rest of the pitchers as the Cubs wanted to be extra careful with his injury background. Once Harden got going he had a few tough outings including getting roughed up by the Yankees last weekend. He has been an ace when healthy and as the 4th starter, Lou will make an extra effort to not overwork him during the season.

Aaron Heilman - Came over in a trade and was one of the most effective Cubs pitchers this spring, with a 1.89 ERA. Heilman will be counted on for long relief situations and his effectiveness will go a long way in determining how the Cubs bullpen fares this season.

Ted Lilly - Was MIA for quite a while this spring pitching for Team USA in the WBC. Lilly didn't have a great spring for Team USA or the Cubs but is a veteran lefty who can be counted on to eat innings. I think the Cubs would be very happy if Theodore pitches like he has the past two seasons.

Carlos Marmol - Was going to pitch for the WBC, then wasn't, then did. Missing a portion of Cubs camp didn't help him in the closer competition. He is big key to the Cubs success and I think Lou really likes him in the set-up spot. When he's on, he's nearly un-hittable.

Sean Marshall - Won the 5th starter spot with a very solid spring, pitched the second most innings 26.2 going 3-1. The lanky lefty has worked hard developing his pitches and consistency, he will most likely also be used in long relief out of the pen when needed.

David Patton - The Rule 5 guy and probably the biggest surprise of the spring. He impressed Lou with his veteran like presence and mind set even though he's never pitched above Single - A ball. It will be interesting to see how and when Lou uses the rookie this season and if the kid can make an impact.

Luis Vizcaino - If not for the money the Cubs owe him he may not have even made the roster. Vizciano had a 6.10 ERA in 10.1 innings this spring and also walked 6 batters. He's had some decent years in his 10 MLB season's but the Cubs are his 7th team during that time, so I think that says something.

Carlos Zambarno - The ace of the Cubs staff was pretty much lights out against opponents this spring. He's racked up 97 MLB wins before turning 28 years old, however some feel that if he directs his emotions into more focus on the mound the best may be yet to come. Z made no predictions this spring and the maturation process may result in his first 20 win season.

Catchers

Koyie Hill - What a great story for him to make the ball club after the table saw accident that severed 3 fingers and his thumb last year...In case you didn't know they were surgically reattached. Winning the back-up catchers job over veteran Paul Bako was probably a bit of a long shot in mid-February but Hill's knowledge of the pitching staff, solid defense and .385 BA, .558 SLG, and .458 OBP this spring convinced management.

Geovany Soto - Last year's ROY was gone with team Puerto Rico in the WBC much of this spring but started to come on as the Cactus League closed. Soto doesn't want to rest on last year's achievements and is solidly focused on improving his play this year. The experience of having a full year under his belt with the Cubs pitching staff can only help the chemistry and rapport.

Infielders

Mike Fontenot - A good spring helped cement Fontenot as the everyday second baseman. If he stays healthy his At-Bats will definitely go up from his 243 last year, even though Aaron Miles may platoon some in L/R situations. Fontenot could be ready for a break out year at the plate with the extra playing time and perhaps give the Cubs some unexpected power from the second base position.

Micah Hoffpauir - His play this spring gave Lou Piniella almost no choice in picking the power hitting 1B/OF for the final roster. Hoffpauir led the Cubs this spring in HR's (6 - tied with Soriano), doubles, and drove in 9 more runs than his closest teammate. Hoff is not a good defensive outfielder but played surprisingly well at 1B, although his glove may never be compared to D-Lee's. He gives the Cubs a power left-handed bat off the bench.

Derrek Lee - Started slow this spring because of a minor injury but picked up steam by the end of the Cactus League season. Always in great shape and wielding a perennial gold glove, his infield mates love having the big guy at first to clean up any errant throws. Lee is looking to get his HR number more towards 30 than last year's 20, something Manager Lou has indicated would be helpful.

Aaron Miles - Actually had a pretty good spring at the plate but is going to need to win Cubs fans over as many view him as a replacement for fan favorite Mark DeRosa. Miles brings versatility with him having played 2nd base, SS, 3d base, and even a few games in the OF. He's a switch hitter with a career .289 average, who also has a World Series ring.

Aramis Ramirez - Had a fairly uneventful spring training, came to camp in great shape and was given a number of days off due to the length of this years camp. He has become Mr. Consistent for the Cubs at 3d base, his blend of hitting power, high batting average, and solid fielding are not always easy to find...Thank you Pirates!

Ryan Theriot - Has come into his own over the past couple season's and if this spring is any indication more good things are on the way. His .412 BA and .488 OBP this spring put him near the top of both spring categories. He may not have the range at SS that some others have but he consistently makes plays and works hard at improving his game.

Outfielders

Milton Bradley - Another Cub who started slow this spring due to a minor injury but turned on the switch and finished spring training on fire, .460 BA, .526 OBP, and .800 SLG. He seemed to blend in easily with his teammates and set an example of hard work and professionalism. Bradley's drive towards perfection sometimes frustrates himself as he thinks he should get on base nearly every time. Playing regularly defensively is going be a new thing for Milton having started a total of only 78 games combined in the outfield over the last 3 seasons.

Kosuke Fukudome - Another Cub who missed a large part of Cubs camp playing in the WBC. The jury is still out on Dome as to his ability to consistently hit Major League pitching. He finished spring training with a .200 BA and also hit only .200 in the WBC, he did have a .407 OBP in the WBC. The longer MLB season compared to Japan's Pro Leagues caused Dome to fatigue; at least that was the reason many gave for his fall off at the plate as last season wore on. Cubs fans don't want any excuse this year, just hit, or...what's the Japanese word for "pine".

Joey Gathright - Came in early to Mesa and worked hard, he wants to be known for his baseball skills and not just his speed, but it's his speed that sets him apart on the Cubs. A true base stealing threat and defensive replacement, he was a key piece of the puzzle Lou was after. Gathright didn't disappoint as he made play after outstanding play defensively and stole 9 bases this spring, 2 more than all his other teammates combined. Finished the spring with a .408 OBP.

Reed Johnson - Came into camp in the best shape of his career and had an outstanding spring training. He's the reason many Cubs fans aren't overly concerned if Fukudome can't get his bat going as Johnson provides solid defense and clutch hitting. Johnson also provides the kind of hustling blue collar mentality that endears him to fans and teammates.

Alfonso Soriano - Tied Hoffpauir for the spring HR honors with 6 and hit .325. Not the traditional leadoff guy but he provides energy and power, it's also hard to argue with the Cubs win-loss results when he's leadoff. Soriano's best base stealing days are over, he was 0-3 in his attempts this spring. He loves to play the game and when he gets hot at the plate it's fun to watch.

Go Cubs!

Tonight it Begins

2009-04-06T07:56:00.005-07:00

A new season starts this evening for the Chicago Cubs and like many fans I wonder will this be the year? Of course that question needs to be clarified, does it mean, will this be the year the Cubs make it to the World Series? Or will this be the year the Cubs WIN a World Series? The bottom line is every season is different and they need to make the playoffs first. The Cubs are two time defending Central Champs and that status puts a big target on their back.

This Cubs team is a different one than the 97 game winners of last season with many new faces, hopefully a retooled better version...One that has the talent and drive to persevere through the regular season and then find the will and resourcefulness to win in the playoffs.

Today however isn't the time to think or worry about a World Series it's the beginning of a journey, one that will have many ups and downs, unexpected events, and with any luck give all Cubs fans much enjoyment along the way. We can worry about the playoffs in 6 months but right now we will see how this reconfigured team will set it's course in a new season.

Think about it, what lies ahead during the next 162 games? Will Big Z or Dempster become the Cubs first 20 game winner since Jon Lieber in 2001? Will Milton Bradley stay healthy and keep his emotions from getting the best of him? Will Fukudome rebound at the plate or will he be a $48 million platoon defensive specialist? Will Kevin Gregg be a lock down closer? All of the answers to these questions and so many more are about to unfold for us beginning tonight. Let's play ball, go Cubs!

I apologize for not having the episode of CubsAZ for you today but the day before the final Cubs Cactus League game last Thursday I came down with a cold that developed into a brutal sinus infection and am only starting to feel a bit better today.

Cubs Leaving AZ After Dramatic Win

2009-04-02T17:30:00.009-07:00

Cubs fans got an exciting finish to their 2009 Cactus League Season as Reed Johnson scored on an Andres Blanco hit in the bottom of the 9th giving the Cubs a 9-8 victory over the Cleveland Indians. 7,933 came out on another beautiful Arizona day to boost the Cubs record setting Hohokam season attendance to 203,105 in 19 games.

Neither team had their full compliment of starters in the today's lineup, which for the Cubs meant not facing Mark DeRosa again. Of course, many of the Cubs big guns didn't play either, including D-Lee, A-Ram, Geo, and The Game (Milton). That didn't stop the Cubs from scoring 7 runs in the first two innings, highlighted by an Alfonso Soriano HR in the 1st, and a bases clearing triple from Koyie Hill in the 2nd. Joey Gathright was 2 for 4 and walked, stole 2nd, and scored on Mike Fontenot's base hit in the 4th. Koyie Hill was 2 for 3 and leaves the Cactus League with a .392 BA.

Ryan Dempster got the start went 4 innings giving up 3 runs on 5 hits, two of them HR's, but also struck out 7 Indians with no walks. Chad Gaudin was not real sharp giving up 3 runs on 6 hits in 2 innings. Carlos Marmol, Chad Fox and David Patton all worked an inning with Patton having the least success, blowing the save by giving up run on 3 hits in the 9th.

Ryan Dempster got a hit in the Cubs' big 2nd by basically flinging his bat at the ball dumping it into right field. Joey Gathright is showing that he has more than just speed to offer, however his wheels are what make him a valuable commodity as the Cubs strengths don't include great team speed. Gathright made several running catches covering alot of ground and had a stolen base where he easily beat the throw. Koyie Hill made a good throw nailing Wilson Valdez trying to steal 2nd. Reed Johnson has had a number of late inning pinch hit opportunities this spring and came through for the Cubs today. Either Lou is testing Reed in that capacity, or really just wanted to get the win today and get some momentum heading to the regular season.

The Mesa Hohokam organization rookies sang the 7th inning stretch aided by Mesa Mayor Scott Smith who mentioned before starting the song that he hopes the Cubs will be in Mesa for a very long time to come. An inside source close to the negotiations between the Cubs and Mesa tells me that things are going very well in spite of what you might read in the papers and not to worry about the Cubs leaving their spring home here in AZ.

It's been a longer than normal spring but I think the Cubs have accomplished most of what they needed to in order to prepare for the regular season. Like everyone, I am ready for the regular season to start and can hardly wait until Monday. Just a reminder, to help you celebrate opening day we will have a CubsAZ video show that will be posted in our media/TV viewer on the morning of the 6th. Go Cubs!

Boys of Spring photos of today's game once again provided by Garrett Craig.

Soriano gets things started going yard in first inning

Koyie Hill legs out a bases full triple

Joey G runs down another one

Chad Gaudin

Scales about to tag out runner at third

Marmol

Reed Johnson pinch hit single in bottom 9

Johnson beats throw after Blanco's single for Cubs win

A little celebration for the victory

Early Start on Get-Away Day

2009-04-02T07:47:00.003-07:00

Just a reminder today's game at Hohokam starts one hour early at 12:05 pm AZ time.

We will have a special CubsAZ video show on Monday April 6 to kick off the regular season, it will feature a roster analysis, interviews, Cubs music video, and preview the upcoming season.

I'll be back later this afternoon and give you the scoop on today's final Cubs Cactus League game against the Cleveland Indians.

Cubs Set Cactus League Record

2009-03-31T18:12:00.012-07:00

The hottest team in all of baseball this spring is the LA Angels of Anaheim and they continued today, beating the Cubs 8-4 to raise their (doesn't matter) spring record to 24-6-1. Attendance at Hohokam today was 9,165, smaller than our recent crowds but enough for the Cubs to set the all-time Hohokam and Cactus League home attendance record of 195,172 with one more game to go on Thursday. The Cubs held the old mark of 193,993, set in 2005. With more games this season the per game is lower than 2005's per game average of 12,125.

As for the actual game, Sean Marshall started and did well until the 4th inning when the Angels scored 7 of the 8 runs against Marshall. The Angels had 8 hits that inning with Torii Hunter getting 2 of the 8, one a HR. The Cubs relief staff of Patton, Heilman, Vizcaino, and Chad Fox did a good job holding the Angels scoreless after the 4th with Kevin Gregg making his first appearance in a week striking out the side in the 9th.

Derrek Lee is really starting to heat up going 3 for 3 today with a couple doubles and a RBI. Kosuke Fukudome had a two hits, one of them a triple. After his first hit Dome was picked off first base when his foot slipped awkwardly across the bag while a tag was applied. Two innings later, Ryan Theriot was picked off first base, it's still spring training but we are nearing opening day and you don't like to see this stuff happening. Micah Hoffpauir hit his 6th spring home run driving in Aaron Miles who had a pinch hit double ahead of Hoff.

The Cubs finished today's game with a lineup that included Carlos Perez, Cliff Anderson, Nate Samson, Jonathan Mota, and Nelson Perez leaving some fans scratching their heads wondering 'Who?'. Yes, I'll be consulting my Cubs Media Guide to find out about these guys.

D-Lee was signing autographs down the right field line all the way up to within 2 minutes of first pitch. Lou Piniella and his coaches had to avoid a Gary Matthews Jr. flying bat in the 7th inning as it slipped out his hands during his AB. Joey Gathright as he's made a habit of doing ran down a long Robb Quinlan fly ball to the RC gap making the catch only feet before the fence. He couldn't stop himself so he ran about 3 steps straight up the side of the wall. This guy is one heck of an athlete.

I had a nice visit with Al Yellon who created the website Bleed Cubbie Blue and his friend Miriam before today's game. BCB is a Cubs fan community with great discussions and a wealth of information.

The Cubs will head to Phoenix tomorrow taking on the A's and then close the Cactus League portion of the exhibition schedule on Thursday at Hohokam against the Cleveland Indians, Thursdays game will start one hour early at 12:05 pm AZ time.

Exclusive Boys of Spring photos provided by Garrett Craig, for more info about Garrett check yesterday's blog.

Marshall ran into trouble in the 4th

It may not look pretty but Dome gets a hit here

David Patton calls out a pop-up

One of D-Lee's two doubles

Heilman working

Theriot holds ball after force on second

Luis Vizcaino

"No, we didn't ask to see Mr. Matthews bat, please return it to him"

Dome on stand-up triple

Miles heading to second on pinch hit double

Hoff shows the power, 2 run dinger

DeRo Show at Hoho - The Photos

2009-03-30T10:05:00.010-07:00

As you probably know I take almost all of the photos you see here at Boys of Spring, however it is nearly impossible for me to take any shots during games at Hohokam since I am announcing and up in the press box. So I have enlisted the help of a fellow Cubs fan Garrett Craig for the final games at Hohokam. These were taken by Garrett yesterday except for the one I took of Dempster and Kerry Wood together. You can see more of Garrett's photos here at Flickr, and if you are looking for a freelance photographer with a good eye for sports in the Chicago area give Garrett an email at Flickr or here at info@boysofspring.com.

Dempster and Woody pre-game

Wonder what Jim was thinking about the DeRo trade after the game

Theodore on the mound

One of two HR trots

Theo

Not a HR but a monster smash

DeRo's ball hits near top of batters eye

Sometimes a Managers job is a lonely one

Wood on the mound

Beardless Gaudin

After A-Ram doubles, German pinch runs

Reed Johnson followed A-Ram's double with a pinch hit HR

Gathright puts on the brakes on 8th inning double

Signing for the fans

Man of the hour talks with the press after big game

DeRo Show at HoHo

2009-03-29T17:03:00.005-07:00

The Indians first visit to Hohokam Park in nearly 20 years was successful as they beat the Cubs 7-5 before 13,097 fans on a gorgeous Mesa afternoon. Mark DeRosa who started at 3rd base today for the Indians got a very warm reception from the Hohokam crowd as he came to bat in the 1st inning and promptly smoked a Ted Lilly pitch for a 2 run dinger. Two innings later DeRo pounded out a solo HR. His next at bat might have been more impressive even though it only ended up as a double because he crushed a ball to dead center that nearly cleared the 35 ft. high batters eye at 410 feet. The ball bounced about 5 foot from the top of the wall back into play. DeRosa finished his big day going 3 for 4 with 4 RBI's to the chagrin of many a Cub fan.

As for the Cubs Milton Bradley continued his hot hitting with a HR and 3 RBI's and Ryan Theriot was 2 for 2 with 2 runs scored plus a couple of walks. A-Ram went 2 for 4 one of those being a double. Reed Johnson came in as a pinch hitter in the 8th inning and eventually worked his way to a 3-2 count then smashed a 2 run HR. Joey Gathright started in centerfield played the whole game went 3 for 4 including a double. One of the hits was an infield chopper that Gathright used his speed to beat out. With Reed Johnson having an outstanding spring and Gathright's solid play, it leaves me scratching my head a bit about how much playing time the Cubs will give Kosuke Fukudome.

Ted Lilly got his first Cactus League start since returning from the WBC. He allowed 4 runs on 7 hits with 2 bases on balls and 8 K's. Chad Gaudin shaved his goat beard sometime recently I hope it's not the source of his pitching abilities because he had a tough outing going 2 innings giving up 3 runs on 3 hits, 1 base on balls, 2 strikeouts. Kerry Wood got a chance to pitch today against his former teammates for an inning holding the Cubs scoreless.

Kerry Wood and DeRo arrived at Hohokam today in street clothes and gave many hugs to former teammates, Wood sat for a bit having a conversation with Ryan Dempster. Peter Gammons from ESPN was at the ballpark today. The Cubs head out to Surprise tomorrow to take on the Royals and then back at Hohokam on Tuesday to host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

The photo below is Mark DeRosa circling the bases on one of his HR's and was taken by a talented young photographer named Garrett Craig. Garrett is helping out Boys of Spring this week and I will post more of his photos tomorrow, so check back then.

The Last Week

2009-03-28T11:00:00.008-07:00

With the Cubs final spring game only one week away, I'm getting very excited for the start of the regular season. As I've mentioned in the past, it's bitter sweet for me because when the Cubs leave AZ I won't be around the team on a day to day basis. So I got to thinking, what are some of the things that make spring training so much fun.

Great weather, lots of sun and less clothing required.

Relaxed fun environment, for players and fans.

Close proximity to players.

Get to see young Cubs prospects for the first time.

Hohokam pressbox offers panoramic mountain views

BP closer to game time, making it easier for fans to watch.

Opportunities for anyone to sing 7th inning stretch.

Smaller more intimate environment means you're more likely to see Hall of Famers, current players, broadcasters, coaches and staff just walking around.

Can snow ski on a mountain in the morning, go to a game later the same day.

St. Patrick's Day is during Spring Training.

March Madness is during Spring Training.

First Official Day of Spring is during Spring Training.

Two Words: Spring Break

Cubs Knock Their Sox Off

2009-03-27T17:02:00.007-07:00

Anytime the Cubs beat the White Sox it's a cause for celebration. They did that today in fine fashion 9-4 in front of a single game Cactus League attendance record audience of 13,327. The game started off at a cool (for Mesa) 60 degrees, but the Cubs bats came out hot as they plated 7 runs in the 1st inning on Sox starter Clayton Richard who couldn't make it out of the 1st inning.

Carlos Zambrano pitched a steady if unspectacular 6 innings allowing 2 runs on 5 hits with 3 K's and 2 BB's. Angel Guzman gave up a HR to Brian Anderson, and Chad Fox pitching in the 9th allowed the other run. Luis Vizcaino pitched a scoreless inning.

Kosuke Fukudome made his first start in the Cactus League upon returning from Japan's successful title defense of the WBC tourney. Dome promptly got a base hit to the delight of the Hohokam crowd. Uncle Milty went 1 for 2 and also got a couple free passes, it's nice to have a guy who can hit for power, average, and a high OBP. Alfonso Soriano had a very effective 1st inning at the plate notching 2 hits in the first as the Cubs batted 11. Aaron Miles starting at 2nd base had a nice game going 3 for 4, Koyie Hill had a 2 RBI double in the Cubs big first. Derrek Lee also had a couple hits including a double.

Bradley made a sweet running grab and then fired a very strong throw, nearly doubling up the White Sox runner at first. Soriano made a nice running catch in the 4th although it probably shouldn't have been as difficult; Soriano at first moved slowly and then as if he thought 'hey, I could catch this' turned up the speed to make the grab. White Sox centerfielder Jerry Owens robbed A-Ram of an extra base hit with a beautiful diving grab in right center.

We're getting towards the end of spring training but it's still a pretty relaxed time for players who know they're going to be on a MLB roster. I'm guessing in a regular season game you won't see White Sox pitcher Octavio Dotel jumping on the back of Bobby Jenks for a piggy back ride between innings walking across the infield to the bullpen as he did today. Today's attendance record is probably going to stand until we break it again this season or most likely until next spring because the Cubs won't play again at Camelback Ranch this spring. The only way that either the Dodgers or the White Sox can break the record at the Ranch is if they play the Cubs, so the record stays at Hohokam for at least another year.

Cubs travelling to Tucson tomorrow to take on the Rockies and back to Hohokam on Sunday where we'll play the Cleveland Indians for the first time in Mesa. It'll be good to see Mark DeRosa and Kerry Wood even if it is in a different uniform.

Field of Dreams

2009-03-26T07:18:00.009-07:00

Every once in a while you get an opportunity to live out a dream and last night's Fergie and Friends Game was one of those times for me. Getting to play baseball and hang out with Cubs Hall of Famers Fergie Jenkins, and Billy Williams, and other MLB Hall of Fame players like Rollie Fingers, Harmon Killebrew and Bob Feller, as well as former Cubs stars Ron Santo, Randy Hundley, Keith Moreland, Jody Davis, Lee Smith, Bill Buckner, Steve Trout, Dave Kingman, Jay Johnstone, and Bob Dernier was an incredible experience.

The 7 innning game was all to raise money for charity, while seeing these MLB greats of years past and having some laughs along the way. The master of ceremonies was former Detroit Tiger Jon Warden who did his part to keep the fans laughing and engaged...he's quite the cut-up. Jon was very funny however next year he can probably cut down on the number of flatulence related jokes and not miss a beat. 90 year-old "Bullet" Bob Feller jogged to the field during the player introductions and tossed a ceremonial pitch to kick things off for the memorable evening. I was lucky enough to play in the game while my usual Public Address duties were handled by AZ Diamondbacks PA man Chuck Drago, who did a great job.

For me playing in the game was very surreal, being in the same dugout as these great players and hearing all their chatter and stories was truly a once in a lifetime experience. I played only 2 innings because we had many players on the Arizona All-Stars including Olympic gold medal swimmer Amy Van Dyken, former NHL goaltender Sean Burke and many local radio and TV personalities, so all of us saw limited game action.

My one time at bat came against former Cub Steve "Rainbow" Trout who went 13-7 in 1984, the same year I started at Hohokam. I fouled off the first two pitches and was quickly in an 0-2 hole, the last thing I wanted to do was get a called third strike, so on Trout's third pitch which was a bit high and outside I drove the ball to right field. Playing rightfield at the time was Peoria Illinois native and former Toronto Blue Jay Pitcher Tom Gilles the youngest member of the Fergie and Friends team at age 46. As I ran to first base I could see Gilles was on his horse and might have trouble getting to the ball, he made one of the better fielding plays of the game leaping and catching it over the shoulder.

My two innings in the outfield were pretty uneventful other than a hit down the line which I made a solid throw to the cutoff man who relayed to third where a very slow moving Bernie Carbo was tagged out.

Some other highlights for me were talking to Billy Williams about how special being a Chicago Cub was to him and chatting with Keith Moreland about the 1984 Cubs division winning team. Another thrill was talking to Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Feller about the 104 mph fastball he threw in Chicago at an exhibition in Lincoln Park. We also talked about his 1940 opening day no-hitter against the White Sox and other highlights of his career.

By the way, Fergie and his Friends beat our AZ All-Stars 7-2. However, the only numbers from this game that really matter are the amounts donated to worthy causes and the number of great memories everyone will have from last night's game.

The Cubs have a rare night game in Scottsdale against the Giants tonight after yesterday's day off, and then they're back to Hohokam tomorrow against White Sox.

AZ resident Harmon Killebrew during introductions

Fergie with his friends

Bob Feller ready for a ceremonial pitch

Hollywood Comes to Mesa

2009-03-24T17:58:00.011-07:00

A Chamber of Commerce day here in Arizona with plenty of sun and a high that reached mid 70's saw the Cubs take down the Rockies 9-8 in front of a Hohokam Stadium single game record crowd of 13,289.

After belting out 24 hits yesterday, the Cubs continued their hot hitting as the first 4 Cubs up to bat all got hits but on Alfonso Soriano's he was thrown out trying to stretch a single to a double. Milton Bradley has certainly heated up...now that he's playing. He was 3 for 4 with a single, double, and a line shot HR to left. Soriano was 2 for 2 with a double and 2 RBI's, he also is showing good patience, walking twice today. One unfortunate recent trend is Alfonso being thrown out trying to steal 2nd. I believe this has happened the last 3 times he's attempted to steal second, of course, spring is when you work these things out so hopefully he's just getting his timing down.

Chad Gaudin started today's game went two innings with mixed results. He walked a couple batters, struck out a couple, and would have given up only one run if not for an Aaron Miles error on pitcher Greg Smith's grounder. Neal Cotts and Kevin Gregg came in and combined for a 1-2-3 third inning. Jeff Samardzija trying to win a spot on the roster was not too effective allowing 2 runs on 3 hits and 1 walked batter in his lone inning pitched. Mike Stanton attempting an improbable comeback was even less effective and allowed 3 runs in an inning and won't be around much longer.

Paul Bako got a hit while pinch hitting today giving him 6 consecutive hits going back to Sunday's game. Derrek Lee showed his stellar glovemanship a couple times today, one snaring a wicked hop that was headed over his right shoulder. Reed Johnson who was playing rightfield in the final innings made a great running grab in the corner to help preserve the Cubs one run win. Ex-Cub Matt Murton started for the Rockies and went hit-less, another former Cub Mark Bellhorn struck out pinch hitting in the 9th with a tying run on 2nd to end the game.

If you noticed silence leading up to the starting lineups, it was because of the TBS TV show My Boys were filming and needed "quiet on the set", so we did not play our regular pre-game music, or announce some of the advertising. Mike Fontenot and Micah Hoffpauir are involved in the storyline of the My Boys episode, it was kind of fun to watch the crew do their work. My Boys deals with a female sports columnist in Chicago and the men in her life, and a sportswriter for a rival publication...I must confess I have never seen an episode. I did noticed a familiar face in the suite where the shows crew and actors watched today's game, the janitor from the TV show Scrubs. Our Hohokam organist George Kiefer may be shown in the episode filmed at Hohokam.

Tomorrow night is our Fergie and Friends Celebrity Baseball Game. I'm getting a bit apprehensive, as you know if you've been reading I'm playing in the game against Fergie and his talented former MLB stars. Of course our team the "Arizona All-Stars" will be managed by Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew and have a few talented athletes, former Phoenix Coyotes goalie Sean Burke and Olympian Amy Van Dyken, but the fact is we are woefully over-matched. As I was leaving the ballpark today, one of the Hohokam members said "I have you going 0 for 3 in tomorrow's game in the pool." The fact that they would even have a pool and that he has me going 0 for 3 does not bother me because it's all to raise money for charity.

My Boys star Jordana Spiro and the back of Paul Sullivan's head

Getting ready to shoot a scene

Chicago native Neil Flynn best known as the Janitor on Scrubs

Cubs bring the whooping sticks

2009-03-23T17:56:00.004-07:00

Talk about fun, it was a great day to just be a fan watching the Cubs smack around the A's at Phoenix Muni. The A's stadium was packed to near capacity (7,994) with a very large portion of those being Cubs fans who enjoyed a 24 hit attack that produced a 20 to 5 Cubs victory on a sunny and slightly cool AZ day(64 degrees at game time). Somewhat lost in the hitting barrage was a solid performance by Ryan Dempster who went 4.1 innings, allowing 1 run on 3 hits while whiffing 6 Athletics.

I'll let some of the photos I took today take over from here...enjoy.

Dempster focused

Dempster and Bobby Scales with Papago Mountains behind

Cubs fans a plenty

Demp dealing

The Riot hitting a triple down the right field line

Quade: "Nice triple Riot, now if we talk real quiet Nomar won't hear us"

Giambi holds Fontenot on first after he singled, driving in Theriot

Good to see D-Lee playing, here he smacks his first spring HR

A's Rajai Davis can only watch as D-Lee's bomb disappears beyond 410

Lee HR trot

Hoff and Lee 5's up top

Everyone's happy to see Lee hitting

Night baseball blog

2009-03-22T19:44:00.003-07:00

Random thoughts while watching the WBC Japan vs USA game:

On his most recent at bat in the game it showed Kosuke Fukudome was batting .211 for the WBC and then he K'd ugly. I'm sure Lou can't be that happy that Dome has missed all this time in camp. One guy that probably is happy is Reed Johnson. Reed has given me confidence that even if Dome can't get his bat going the Cubs have a reliable Centerfielder.

Wow, this game has gotten interesting as Mark DeRosa just hit a triple to bring the US within two. It's going to be difficult seeing DeRosa in a Cleveland uniform when the Indians come to Hohokam twice in the last week of spring training...as well as Kerry Wood.

Seeing how far the Asian teams have come in the sport of baseball, it was interesting to note that the Cubs today played a team led by the first Asian-American Manager in the history of Major League Baseball, Don Wakamatsu. That's according to Wikipedia. I remember seeing Wakamatsu playing for Arizona State with Barry Bonds. Wakamatsu's father was born in a US internment camp during World War II and his grandparents were Japanese. Considering March is Irish-American Heritage Month it should be noted Wakamatsu's mother is Irish-American.

Fukudome just walked, we know he's good at drawing those.

I'm feeling a bit sore from going to the batting cage yesterday but I think it's only a bit of muscle fatigue and I'll be ready to step to the plate at Hohokam for the Fergie and Friends game. I heard today that Bob Feller might actually take the mound and pitch during the game, I hope I don't go up against him because that might be a no-win situation. If you get a hit off him it's because he's 90 years old. Now if you can't get a hit off him then you'll really be embarrassed because you can't hit a guy who's only a decade shy of being a centenarian.

Oh, Japan just scored another run...I guess it would be more interesting if the US had more of their best pitchers on the squad.

I'm doing so-so on my two NCAA brackets and have Connecticut and Oklahoma as eventual winners.

Why is Adam Dunn playing in the outfield for team USA? Is he the worst defensive outfielder in the Majors? OK, it appears Japan is headed to the Championship unless the U.S. pulls off something very improbable. Talk with you tomorrow. T

Z Cubs Win

2009-03-22T16:16:00.003-07:00

Big Z was the big story today as the Cubs beat the Seattle Mariners 5-3 on a sunny but gusty day in Mesa.

Z cruised through his longest outing of the spring going 6 innings, allowing 4 hits and 1 run on a Chris Woodward solo HR and 6 K's. He also helped himself at the plate, with a double to the rightfield corner and later scored. With the score tied at 1, the Cubs broke things open in the 6th plating 3 runs as Alfonso Soriano hit a bases loaded single to drive in two of the 3, which was all the scoring the Cubs needed for the win.

Milton Bradley was 2 for 3 at the plate, Derrek Lee doubled in the 1st but ended up stranded. Alfonso Soriano also drew a walk and was seen celebrating at 1st with base coach Matt Sinatro- Sinatro because it was his birthday today and Soriano because he actually drew a base on balls.

Ronny Cedeno was the leadoff hitter for the Mariners and reminded us why he's not a Cub, 0 for 4 with two K's. Big Z showed his defensive skills and agility on a swinging bunt by Mariners Franklin Gutierrez as Z bounded off the mound, bare handed the ball and tossed him out at first.

Even though it's only spring training it's still good to hear the song "Go Cubs Go!" after a Cubs victory. Cubs will travel to Phoenix tomorrow playing the A's, I hope to get out there and bring you back photos. Talk with you then.

Nice Evening Here

2009-03-21T19:43:00.009-07:00

One of the things I love about Arizona are the sunsets, here's a photo I shot half an hour ago. Being in the wide open spaces of the desert southwest has a magical feel on perfect evenings like tonight - However, these days you need to travel a bit further to get to the open spaces on the outskirts of the sprawling urbanity that is Phoenix. There's no better way to put it, the Cubs kicked ass over the White Sox today, got to love it! I wasn't at the game or I would have passed along a report or photos.

Boys of Spring is actively involved and helping to sponsor the Fergie and Friends Celebrity game at Hohokam this coming Wednesday night the 25th at 7pm. What this means is that along with helping the Ferguson Jenkins Foundation raise funds for Juvenile Diabetes and Cancer Lymphoma I will be one of the Arizona All-Stars playing against Fergie and his Friends. Yes, joining a team something like the reconstituted Washington Generals taking on the Harlem Globetrotters in baseball form. Fergie's Friends happen to be a number of Hall of Famers and former MLB stars, so I have no business playing against them. I'm going to try and not embarrass myself, and have fun. Maybe I can get a few tips from Milton Bradley on how to snap a bat or smash a helmet after I strike out. Milton, if you're reading, I'll take your ideas in comment form.

But seriously, I am extremely delighted and excited about playing in the game. I don't want to make a fool of myself, and it may be my one chance to play against guys at this level, albeit former level, so I am practicing everyday down at the batting cage and nearby diamond. You may ask, who's going to do the Public Address if I'm playing? Any takers? No, just kidding we have a local radio personality to donate his time for the evening.

The whole event is about having fun and getting to meet the guys. You can have your photo taken with, shake hands, $25 gets you on the field before the game to say hello to Ron Santo who is now confirmed to be there, along with Ryne Sandberg, Billy Williams, of course Fergie, and possibly Ernie Banks. All these greats on the same field at the same time with you! General Admission tickets are only $10, don't miss it! Check out http://www.fergieandfriends.com/ for more info.

Seattle Mariners are headed to Hohokam tomorrow. Big Z starts against Erik Bedard, I'll talk with you after the game.

"Play One and Win"

2009-03-20T17:08:00.008-07:00

Many of you probably saw the Cubs 5-3 victory over the San Diego Padres on WGN or at Hohokam as we had more fans in attendance than any Cactus League game in history- 13,162. The previous single game attendance record 13,046 was set only last week on St.Patricks Day at Camelback Ranch in Glendale when the Cubs played the Dodgers. They made quite a big deal over the public address system at the Ranch about breaking Hohokam's record. Of course, they couldn't do it without the Cubs half of the equation...for us it's kind of like, oh yeah another sell-out record crowd, we're used to it, not that big of a deal because we expect it.

As for the game, Rich Harden didn't start because of the flu so youngster Mitch Atkins got the nod, allowing two runs in the first both unearned. Atkins would have been out of the inning unscathed if not for an error. Alfonso Soriano's bat is coming around, he went 2 for 4. Milton "The Game" Bradley had a couple hits in 3 at bats. I don't know if WGN picked this up, but after Milton struck out in the 3rd inning, he threw his batting helmet hard against the dugout wall in frustration...this guy really hates to strike out. A-Ram went 2 for 3. Reed Johnson had a pinch hit 2 run homer to left center that put the Cubs ahead to stay.

Carlos Marmol, Kevin Gregg, and Angel Guzman all pitched well, giving up no runs to the Padres with Gregg and Guzie striking out 3 each. Kevin Hart looking to pitch himself to Iowa, almost blew it in the 9th as he hit the first two batters he faced and allowed a triple and a run before getting Brett Dowdy pop out to end the game.

With Sean Marshall winning the 5th starter spot, one of the few competitions left is for the closer spot, which should be interesting over the next week as both Carlos Marmol and Kevin Gregg battle it out. Angel Guzman helped his cause to join the pen today and it's really time for him to step up if he's ever going to. Micah Hoffpauir made a nice leaping snag of a liner in the 6th then doubled up Kyle Blanks off of 1st. Hoffpauir's glove work at 1st base has been surprisingly effective this spring. Funny but almost not funny, Paul Bako throwing to 1st base after a strikeout only to have Hoffpauir looking the other way and nearly get his head taken off. Luckily it didn't hit him, the very next batter Chase Headley struck out and Bako made sure Hoffpauir was looking before he threw to first.

Good to see Geovany Soto back with the Cubs even though he went o for 2, striking out both times. The guys from Cubscast.com interviewed me before the game today we touched on alot of different subjects, you can hear it soon on their website. Today I heard a fan say to Billy Williams "let's play two", to which Billy replied "Let's play one and win!" The Cubs will play the White Sox tomorrow at Camelback Ranch and then we'll host the Mariners on Sunday at Hohokam.

Soto during infield this morning

Food Drive Today

2009-03-20T08:00:00.003-07:00

The Cubs wives are having their annual food drive at Hohokam today, so please bring nonperishable food items to the Park or make a donation. The drive benefits Mesa's Paz De Cristo Shelter.

The first 500 fans to donate 10 non-perishable food items or $20 will have a chance to randomly select a grab bag featuring used baseballs from each of the 55 home wins of the 2008 season. Limit two per person. So, come on out to the Hohokam Park any time after 9am (game begins at 1:05pm)

Rich Harden will start on the mound for the Cubs, with Derrek Lee, Milton Bradley and Geovany Soto all expected back in today's line-up.

I'll talk to you after the game. T

Dempster strong but Cubs lose in 9th

2009-03-18T18:36:00.009-07:00

Cubs lost 8-6 to the Giants today in front of a Hohokam single game record crowd of 13,024. Despite the outcome, this was a pretty well-played game for the Cubs until Jose Ascanio gave up 5 runs in the 9th.

Alfonso Soriano got things started quickly on the first pitch as he launched a Tim Lincecum offering into the left field berm. The Cubs would score two more in the first as Micah Hoffpauir legged out a triple off the centerfield wall. The Cubs would score another run in both the 4th and 5th inning, holding a 5-0 lead by the time most of the starters left. The Cubs staged a rally of their own in the bottom of the 9th, but left bags loaded as minor league call-up Dylan Johnston struck out to end the game. The Cubs left 13 runners on base today.

As Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum labored, Cubs Ryan Dempster pitched as if he was on cruise control, going 5 innings allowing 4 hits, no runs while striking out 4 Giants. The only nitpick with Dempster today was the fact that he came up to bat two times with Joey Gathright on first base and failed to get the sacrifice bunt down each time. This is the type of thing that will hopefully be worked on enough and corrected by the end of spring. The Cubs relievers didn't fair nearly as well as Dempster except for Kevin Hart who pitched a scoreless 8th, striking out 2 of the 3 he faced. Chad Gaudin gave up 2 runs in the 6th, and Luis Vizcaino struck out three of the four batters he faced in the 7th but unfortunately the 4th batter, Jesus Guzman, hit a home run.

The real pitching debacle came as Jose Ascanio gave up 5 runs on 4 hits, including a grand slam by Giants minor league call-up Nick Noonan. Not good when a #82 without a name on his jersey pounds a game winning grand salami off you.

Defensively, Joey Gathright as we've been getting accustomed to seeing this spring made a sensational running somersaulting catch in the 5th inning. Micah Hoffpauir made a good pick up at 1st base on a hot grounder in the 9th. Giants 3rd baseman Pablo Sandoval got a nasty bad hop taking a hard grounder somewhere around his mouth and was down for quite a while before leaving the game. Mike Fontenot nearly took off Lincecum's head with a rocket comebacker to the mound, Lincecum had to snap his head away quickly, or it would have been very ugly.

I saw ESPN's Peter Gammon, Cubs Chairman Crane Kenney, writer George Will, and Lou Piniella kibitzing around the batting cage during BP. The Cubs are going to retire #31 for Ferguson Jenkins and Greg Maddux and Fergie was on hand to mark the news with a ceremonial first pitch today. We had a moment of silence before the start of the game as longtime Arizona resident, and former Cubs manager Whitey Lockman passed away yesterday at the age of 82. Lockman played 16 years in the Majors, 14 of them with the NY and SF Giants.

The Cubs will travel to Peoria tomorrow to take on the Mariners, and then back to Hohokam on Friday to play San Diego Padres. The game on Friday is also our annual food drive, so if you're headed to the game bring non perishable food items to donate. Another note on Friday's game, it starts at 1:05, apparently a published schedule had erroneously listed it as being a night game.

Fergie Jenkins being interviewed at Hohokam today

Happy St. Patrick's Day Indeed!

2009-03-17T19:07:00.005-07:00

The Cubs and Big Z wearing the green and pounding the Dodgers 12-3, talk about fun at the ballpark! Instead of writing about what happened, I'll just let the photos I took tell a bit of the story.

I'll be back with a write-up of the goings on tomorrow as the SF Giants make their first and only appearance at Hohokam this spring. Enjoy the photos.

Soriano warms up before game

New Cub Corey Koskie during National Anthem

Bases painted like the flag of Ireland

Lou chats with the umps

Z dealing

Koskie's first Cubs at bat

Koskie promptly bangs it off the outfield wall for a double

Z coming to the dish

A very nice stadium but the traffic and parking at the Ranch suck

Z goes yard

Z's power swing

Sweet

Kids battle for a ball tossed by a Cub at innings end

Dodgers outfielders were going to the wall all day

Reed Johnson and So Taguchi

Sean Marshall came in for an inning

Reed Johnson comes out of game after a double, going 3 for 4 at the plate