Pirates 20-22, 5th (-6.0)
Cubs 26-16, 1st (-2.5)
POTG: LF Soriano (2 HR, 4 RBI), C SOTO (HR, 2H), RF-2B (HR, 2B, 2 R)
Runner Up: RP Gallagher (6 IP, 4 H, R, 3 BB, 3 K, W[1/1], QS [1])
I know today (Saturday)’s game is a noon start, but I seem to have a tough time grasping this idea and it’s ramifications. Must type fast, hopefully coherently.
I don’t know if I can survive the ups and downs of Alfonso Soriano for the rest of his contract. One stretch, he seems to be the most overpaid player in the league. The next stretch, he seems to have gotten Mario’s Star because he’s completely invincible. Despite the last week, his average numbers are still below where they usually are, but it’s a good week when you add 70 points to your batting average. Soriano’s not a star because he’s not always going be the guy you want up with the game on the line, but he is a star because there are times where he can completely carry a team. It’s paradoxical.
Gallagher was pretty good for a guy going for (and getting) his first win. He seemed to be running of gas in the 6th, but didn’t get in a lot of trouble in any other inning. Sean’s earned a couple start leash to prove himself here, though I think it’s likely tighter than that with Lou involved. Gallagher was also very fast on the mound, which is always nice.
Hopefully Z will get a three or four at bats today to make up for the iffy one yesterday. With Wood having pitched the last three days, it’s Marmol in a closing situation if it comes to it.