Here we go!!!

I realize I am a little late in posting this, but it was in my mind heading into the Milwaukee series. This team is about to go on a tear. Stars are aligning. My reasons below:

1. We have way too many guys hitting near .220. The law of averages will work that out. I believe the MLB average is around .250. For our guys to get there, they have to hit near .300 for the next couple of months.
2. Lou appears finally ready to stick with this new lineup. I don't care how many games we won last year, Soriano is not a leadoff hitter. Perhaps his slump is the best thing that ever happened to us. It gave Lou another reason to drop him in the lineup. And what has happened since then? The Cubs are scoring runs, we are winning, Fukudome is getting on base in the leadoff spot, Theriot is serving as a productive #2 hitter (advancing Fukudome), and Lee and Bradley are driving in runs. Soriano has also started to get a couple of hits lately. If we can just make him comfortable down there, it is for the best.
3. Soto is breaking out. Almost all of his HRs have been in the last 12-15 games. He's had several multi hit games in that span as well and looks much more comfortable at the plate.
4. Aramis is back! Yes, we know he alone can't solve all the world's problems, but he is bound to help. Just watching the game last night felt so much more comfortable with him in the lineup. Although, I do admit Jake Fox was playing like a stud.
5. Bench strength. As strong as it's been for a while. Fox, Johnson, Baker, Hoffpauir, Blanco. I love our versatility. I just wish we could find a way to get Fox playing everyday and not lose Aramis.
6. Gregg appears to be settled in. His last few outings have been solid. Take away the walk off Ryan Rayburn HR in Detroit about 5 outings ago, and he has really been great. We need a guy we can count on. Let's hope Marmol continues to right his ship.

Don't look now, we are 5-1 in July. Could July 2009 be like May 2008? Let's hope so. We just took care of the Brewers, we started well last night against the Braves, but a huge series is coming this weekend. 4 games, 3 days, vs the Cardinals. Let's just avoid Pujols and win 3 out of 4.

Go Cubs Go!

THE RIOT!