Yesterday, the Cards smacked around Randy Johnson, and the bullpen held on for the W. That'll put me back in the black.
YTD 3-2 (+1.45)
--- 3-0 (+4.7) last 3
Pittsburgh +200 (Benson, Maddux)
With the Johnson fade tucked firmly away, let's turn our attention to the next fade item up for bid, Greg Maddux.
Maddux has gone 9-0 with a 1.37 ERA vs. the Bucs since '97. That's great, but he's not the same pitcher he was then, or in 2002 for that matter. His ERA ballooned almost a full run and a half between 2002 and 2003, in a (relative) pitcher's park. I'm curious to see how he fares in Wrigley.
Irregardless, the Cubs will have to score to win, and before yesterday's beatdown of Atlanta, they haven't shown it. They hit .219 with a .305 OBP over their first five. One game won't convince me they're clicking.
No one knows how Benson will throw. He could get shelled and ruin all hope. The Pirates pen has been solid, though, and Jose Mesa (?!) is in a semi groove.
The Cub relievers have thrown well too, but 16 BB in 20 IP isn't a good sign.
If Benson is just average, I think we've got a good shot.
Good Luck,
Space.
YTD 3-2 (+1.45)
--- 3-0 (+4.7) last 3
Pittsburgh +200 (Benson, Maddux)
With the Johnson fade tucked firmly away, let's turn our attention to the next fade item up for bid, Greg Maddux.
Maddux has gone 9-0 with a 1.37 ERA vs. the Bucs since '97. That's great, but he's not the same pitcher he was then, or in 2002 for that matter. His ERA ballooned almost a full run and a half between 2002 and 2003, in a (relative) pitcher's park. I'm curious to see how he fares in Wrigley.
Irregardless, the Cubs will have to score to win, and before yesterday's beatdown of Atlanta, they haven't shown it. They hit .219 with a .305 OBP over their first five. One game won't convince me they're clicking.
No one knows how Benson will throw. He could get shelled and ruin all hope. The Pirates pen has been solid, though, and Jose Mesa (?!) is in a semi groove.
The Cub relievers have thrown well too, but 16 BB in 20 IP isn't a good sign.
If Benson is just average, I think we've got a good shot.
Good Luck,
Space.