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.

Too Good to be True?

The 2007 Baseball season on the northside was lining up so well. It really looked like 'It's Gonna Happen'. There appeared to be a harmonic convergences in the air.

Weak Division- check
Cardinals having a down season - check
New manager - check
Biggest offseason free agent signing - check
More than you could have expected from Lilly and Marquis - check
Young callups playing great ball - check
Milwaukee fading - check
Big Z back to form - check

Cubs fans were even allowing themselves to get a little puffy-chested, and then BAM! Soriano is out for at least 2 weeks, more like four. I hate to say it, but this could be the beginning of the end for the 'Season of Destiny'. Let's hope not, but as a Cubs fan, I was getting a little uncomfortable feeling so comfortable.

I should have known better.

Your 2007 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs!

Now that Rex has fumbled, stumbled and ruined the Super Bowl run of the beloved, it is time to talk about my favourite sport, Baseball. As the billboard says, baseball will divide the city but football will unite it. It's time to pick sides and I'm a Cubs fan. I might be getting ahead of myself with the title, but what the hell. Expectations have been raised dramatically this offseason. In case you haven't paid attention to all the Cubs off season moves, Jayson Stark has a really good article on all of Hendry's moves.

And in case any of our Southeast Asian readers need reminding about the dreaded curse, here's another link here.