Lester didn't have his best stuff, but I really think it is fair to say the Cubs were robbed by the review process in the 9th inning when Russell was ruled out at third base on an apparent RBI triple with no one out. It is possible that he lost contact with the base for a nanosecond, although how that might constitute the clear proof required by the review process I fail to see. Moreover, this entire interpretation of whether a runner is safe or out is pretty much against the spirit of the game. In this case, the whole inning changed from having a runner at third and no outs to one out and nobody on base. It also gave the Pirates pitcher, who was clearly on the ropes, a chance to regroup.
I'm not a big fan of the review process even when it goes in the Cubs favor. I've got nothing against the review of close calls at first base or boundary calls, but these are pretty easy to determine. At first base the runner has no problem going all out mainly because he is usually standing up and he just has to beat the throw. Things get a lot more iffy when the runner leaves his feet and a tag is involved. I'd also argue that these microscopic reviews rob the game of excitement and often force teams to play more conservatively. Plays like the one tonight are rarer now and less exciting because of the interpretation of the current rule and also because the review process interrupts the flow of the game as well as introducing a delay. You more or less know that a close play is going to result in a five or ten minute examination. Sounds like sour grapes and maybe it is, but the game is being changed by some of these interpretations and not necessarily for the better.
On a more mundane matter, I more or less approve of the Cubs acquisitions. I think Hamel is a big plus and Chavez has already had an impact. Kintzler may not be a household word, but he is a solid reliever. I'm kind of curious as to who is sent down to Iowa or released to make room for Kintzler. Rosario has options remaining, but he has pitched pretty well. Duensing is obviously the worst pitcher in the bullpen, but, of course, he is a veteran with a year left on his contract. Perhaps he will be released anyway or DFAed unless he develops a sudden ailment. He's actually pitching right now like a guy who is hurt.
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