Piniella managed this game as if it were the seventh game of the World Series, and maybe, from his point-of-view, it was. A good performance from Silva, good relief work, and several timely hits, did the trick.
Some positive signs. Lee seems to be coming around. Piniella has moved Fukudome to the leadoff spot, which is where he belongs and will hopefully stay. He has also at least tried to break up the righties of doom procession that has contributed to so many losses, notably by moving Soto up in the lineup and sitting Ramirez for a day. Of course, Friday the Cubs face a lefty, so we may well see its return.
A couple of modest suggestions to consider for the Cubs. Get away from the five man outfield rotation. It just doesn't work. Stick with a four man shuffle with Nady the odd man out. Also, just because they are so right-handed, don't be afraid to let a left-handed outfielder start against a lefty. It changes the pitcher's perspective, and, anyway, how bad could it be when the alternative, Nady, is batting below the Mendoza line. And again because they are so right-handed, think about starting Fontenot at 2B maybe 40% of the time. He's as good a glove man as Theriot and he is having a good year at the plate. Finally, and on the same theme, what is Jeff Baker doing on this roster and why isn't Tracy in the majors instead? Tracy can play 3B and 1B well and if you are going to rest Lee or Ramirez occasionally, you are going to do so against a right-hander.
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