NLDS Preview: Cubs vs. D-Backs

Finally, the Cubs playoff opponent is set. The Cubs will open their quest to win their first World Series since 1908 at Chase Field against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks own the regular season series against the Cubs 4-2, even though the Cubs scored more runs and had a lower ERA during those six contests.

The DBacks have the best record in the National League, but I think are the ideal first round opponent. The Rockies and the Phillies are playing with so much confidence right now, I'm afraid they might be unstoppable. Thankfully, either the Rockies or Padres will have to play the red-hot Phillies and eliminate one another.

Fonzie hit very well in the World Series against the DBacks in 2003. The Cubs hitting is getting hot. The key will be Big Z. The last time the Cubs were in the playoffs he was a kid. Now, with Prior gone and Woody in the bullpen, Big Z is the man. If he can beat Brandon Webb and the Cubs steal the home field in the first game; I'm not worried about Lilly getting it done. Then its two chances to win one game at an electric Wrigley over the weekend. It is going to be bedlam on Clark and Addison next weekend. Let's hope it's to move on to the NLCS and erase the last 99 years of futility.

Bonnix Prediction: Cubs in 4.

Three's Company

I was afraid the Cubs would be lifeless in Miami. Two losses to the bottom feeding Marlins. The only solace is that LaRussa's team actually didn't roll over to the Brewers for a change. I want to believe that this is a done deal; with the Brewers having to play a Padre's team that is playing for their playoff life. Let's hope so. The difference between getting in the dance and getting left out is the difference between Lou being heralded as the Saviour or Lou being compared to Dusty in 2004.

I'm still counting on the Saviour to come through. The magic number is three. If the Cubs go .500 over the next four all Milwaukee has to do is lose one game to the Padre's. Sounds pretty easy, right?


You aren't worried, are you?

The Number 4

4 is a Square Number(2x2).
4 is a Centered Triangular Number.4 is a Tetrahedral Number.
4 is a Lucas Number.
4 is a Motzkin Number.
4 can be Partitioned in 5 ways.
4 is the smallest number of colors sufficient to color all planar maps.
4 is the maximal number of regions into which space can be divided by 2 Spheres.
The Tetrahedron is a Platonic Solid with 4 Vertices and 4 Faces.
The Chemical Element Beryllium has an atomic number of 4.
The 4 Elements: Fire, Air, Water and Earth.
In Humans: the four petals of the Base Chakra.

And most importantly, the Cubs Magic number is 4.
The Cubs need only win the next two series and they are in. Furthermore, if the Brewers lose any games, obviously the they need even less. I've been cautiioulsy skeptical about the Cubs making the offseason this year while other members of the DCS staff have been more confident. Well, it's safe to say the Cubs are in.

No one in the National League scares me except maybe the Mets. For the Cubs to make the World Series they will have to win every series being the underdog and not having home field advantage. That's ok with me, the Cubs have been a good road team.

It's time to get excited Cubs fans, we are in! No do you know anyone who has tickets?