JOE MADDON HAS A PHILOSOPHY
It is no secret that one of the things that makes Joe Maddon such a respected manager is his desire to work with younger players. This is an ability that was first noted when he guided the Tampa Rays to their successful day in the sun.
Joe is never at a loss for words when it comes to spreading the gospel of his strong baseball beliefs. Of course I am referring to information he shares privately with his staff and players. But, occasionally, for one reason or another, some details leak into the press or social media.
Maddon recently proclaimed that he appreciates home runs, but wishes that players would concentrate more on filling the plates with base hits. In this day and age, it is understandable that fans love the crack of a bat along with the sight of a ball on its way out of the park. But, I think players should think hard about Joe's philosophy during the post season, as well as future seasons to come.
It is no secret that one of the things that makes Joe Maddon such a respected manager is his desire to work with younger players. This is an ability that was first noted when he guided the Tampa Rays to their successful day in the sun.
Joe is never at a loss for words when it comes to spreading the gospel of his strong baseball beliefs. Of course I am referring to information he shares privately with his staff and players. But, occasionally, for one reason or another, some details leak into the press or social media.
Maddon recently proclaimed that he appreciates home runs, but wishes that players would concentrate more on filling the plates with base hits. In this day and age, it is understandable that fans love the crack of a bat along with the sight of a ball on its way out of the park. But, I think players should think hard about Joe's philosophy during the post season, as well as future seasons to come.
PLAY BALL!
Come on down to Gator's in Brownwood and cheer the Cubs on to victory in their quest for a 2019 world championship!
Join us on Saturday, September 21st at 12:20 pm. The game...CUBS VS.CARDINALS. First pitch 1:20 pm.
We will also be playing 50/50, SQUARES, PICK A CUB and PREDICT THE FINAL SCORE!
LETS CHEER ON THE CUBBIES IN THE FINAL STRETCH!
GATORS DOCKSIDE IN BROWNWOOD
3698 Meggison Rd.
Come on down to Gator's in Brownwood and cheer the Cubs on to victory in their quest for a 2019 world championship!
Join us on Saturday, September 21st at 12:20 pm. The game...CUBS VS.CARDINALS. First pitch 1:20 pm.
We will also be playing 50/50, SQUARES, PICK A CUB and PREDICT THE FINAL SCORE!
LETS CHEER ON THE CUBBIES IN THE FINAL STRETCH!
GATORS DOCKSIDE IN BROWNWOOD
3698 Meggison Rd.
PITCH COUNTS ARE USELESS!
At 68 years of age and being a life-long fan of the Chicago Cubs, I have witnessed many changes in baseball...some for the better and many for the worse.
For instance, in the late fifties and early sixties, when my grandfather tried to get his 10 year old grandson to take a sip of Blatz, I can't recall ever attending a game with a closer.
Pitchers usually went the distance.
These days, we have hurlers who specialize in throwing three outs and then they're done for the day! But a much bigger problem exists with regard to pitch counts.
First of all, pitch counts put extra pressure on the pitchers. If they walk a couple of runners they become overly anxious because they know numbers are building up.
Joe Maddon loves when a starter can take things into the 7th or 8th inning because it reduces the strain on the bull pen. But I've seen several incidents where a pitcher is taken out of a game simply because he's over 100 pitches, even if he still has energy and rhythm.
Baseball is an ever changing game to be sure and pitch counts may eventually become a thing of the past. But for your truly, the day can't come too soon!
DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE? SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS WITH US. WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU.
At 68 years of age and being a life-long fan of the Chicago Cubs, I have witnessed many changes in baseball...some for the better and many for the worse.
For instance, in the late fifties and early sixties, when my grandfather tried to get his 10 year old grandson to take a sip of Blatz, I can't recall ever attending a game with a closer.
Pitchers usually went the distance.
These days, we have hurlers who specialize in throwing three outs and then they're done for the day! But a much bigger problem exists with regard to pitch counts.
First of all, pitch counts put extra pressure on the pitchers. If they walk a couple of runners they become overly anxious because they know numbers are building up.
Joe Maddon loves when a starter can take things into the 7th or 8th inning because it reduces the strain on the bull pen. But I've seen several incidents where a pitcher is taken out of a game simply because he's over 100 pitches, even if he still has energy and rhythm.
Baseball is an ever changing game to be sure and pitch counts may eventually become a thing of the past. But for your truly, the day can't come too soon!
DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE? SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS WITH US. WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU.
Well, we've come to the last month of the season and what I have feared is about to happen. The Cubs who are down by four games to the St. Louis Cardinals and will have to face them seven times in the last ten games. Our bullpen has been the "achilles heel" for this team. Plus let's not forget we have not had a real lead off hitter all year. Nothing seems to be clicking for the Cubs right now.
One bright spot has been the play of Nico Hoerner. We go to see his major league debut in San Diego. Nico is filling in for the injured Javier Baez. Once again, I must mention that I doubt Addison Russell will be with the team next year. Where he winds up is anyone's guess.
A couple of months ago I mentioned the Cubs were doing a short subject series on the 1969 Cubs. That five part series is now up and running on the Cubs Youtube channel. Just enter "1969 Cubs Documentary" in their search box. You will really enjoy it! So many great memories from my favorite team!
So, let's all cross our fingers and hope the end of the year will again give us some great memories from this team. Go Cubs!
One bright spot has been the play of Nico Hoerner. We go to see his major league debut in San Diego. Nico is filling in for the injured Javier Baez. Once again, I must mention that I doubt Addison Russell will be with the team next year. Where he winds up is anyone's guess.
A couple of months ago I mentioned the Cubs were doing a short subject series on the 1969 Cubs. That five part series is now up and running on the Cubs Youtube channel. Just enter "1969 Cubs Documentary" in their search box. You will really enjoy it! So many great memories from my favorite team!
So, let's all cross our fingers and hope the end of the year will again give us some great memories from this team. Go Cubs!
DOES THE "C" on the wall seem familiar?
If you think this is a CUBS LOGO on a Wrigley wall, you would be incorrect! Cubs World member, Francine Bently, brought to our attention a revelation that the Chicago Cubs logo was actually borrowed from the CHICAGO ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION on South Michigan Avenue in Chicago! (The photo shows a game room.) I think it's a game room. I hope its not a litter box!)
This magnificent and historical building now houses a beautiful hotel with a collection of amenities such as billiard tables, indoor tennis court , game rooms and three restaurants.
The club was founded in 1890 and membership included a list of notables such as Marshall Field, A.G. Spalding and William Wrigley. (You might've heard of him.) When Mr. Wrigley purchased the ball club, he brought the LOGO with him. There has never been any objection to this action. As a result, the northsiders have a beautiful crest that actually had its origins on the South side!
If you think this is a CUBS LOGO on a Wrigley wall, you would be incorrect! Cubs World member, Francine Bently, brought to our attention a revelation that the Chicago Cubs logo was actually borrowed from the CHICAGO ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION on South Michigan Avenue in Chicago! (The photo shows a game room.) I think it's a game room. I hope its not a litter box!)
This magnificent and historical building now houses a beautiful hotel with a collection of amenities such as billiard tables, indoor tennis court , game rooms and three restaurants.
The club was founded in 1890 and membership included a list of notables such as Marshall Field, A.G. Spalding and William Wrigley. (You might've heard of him.) When Mr. Wrigley purchased the ball club, he brought the LOGO with him. There has never been any objection to this action. As a result, the northsiders have a beautiful crest that actually had its origins on the South side!
MLB is suddenly in the fashion business. is that all WHITE with you?
It's not to players,, managers, broadcasters, fans or anybody with common sense. So what's the deal?
As if the MLB has nothing important to do, they decided it would be a great idea to have all white and all black uniforms for weekend play.
Joe Maddon has a better idea. He suggests, "Let the players design the uniforms." Actually, it amazes me that the MLB is giving this insipid dictate any attention at all when they should be focusing on how all stadiums can be outfitted with safety nets! MLB=MAJOR LEAGUE BLUNDER!
It's not to players,, managers, broadcasters, fans or anybody with common sense. So what's the deal?
As if the MLB has nothing important to do, they decided it would be a great idea to have all white and all black uniforms for weekend play.
Joe Maddon has a better idea. He suggests, "Let the players design the uniforms." Actually, it amazes me that the MLB is giving this insipid dictate any attention at all when they should be focusing on how all stadiums can be outfitted with safety nets! MLB=MAJOR LEAGUE BLUNDER!
RICK REICHARDT TO SPEAK AT OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING!
Our own Don Mulder has announced that a very special guest will be appearing at the OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING. This is one event you will NOT WANT TO MISS!
What were you doing in 1964? That's the year Rick Reichardt started his major league career with the Los Angeles Angels. He also played for the old Washington Senators, the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals.
He was a much sought after player and if you'd like to find out why, please make sure you attend the upcoming Cubs World October membership meeting. Rick will be on hand to share some amazing stories and reflect on a career that will entertain and fascinate you!
The October meeting will be held on October 7th at the Colony Cottage Rec Center. Doors open at 6pm. There will be a catered meal. MEMBERSHIP FEE $12.00 per person for this event. Guests $14.00 or $16.00 at the door. Please register by October 4th!
Our own Don Mulder has announced that a very special guest will be appearing at the OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING. This is one event you will NOT WANT TO MISS!
What were you doing in 1964? That's the year Rick Reichardt started his major league career with the Los Angeles Angels. He also played for the old Washington Senators, the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals.
He was a much sought after player and if you'd like to find out why, please make sure you attend the upcoming Cubs World October membership meeting. Rick will be on hand to share some amazing stories and reflect on a career that will entertain and fascinate you!
The October meeting will be held on October 7th at the Colony Cottage Rec Center. Doors open at 6pm. There will be a catered meal. MEMBERSHIP FEE $12.00 per person for this event. Guests $14.00 or $16.00 at the door. Please register by October 4th!
RICK REICHART FUN FACTS.......
1. Rick socialized with famous Hollywood stars of the Sixties. We will find out who during his visit.
2. At the University of Wisconsin, he twice led the BIG 10 in batting and also was a star fullback on the 1962 #2 ranked Rose Bowl team.
3. Reichart was highly rated by baseball scouts. A bidding war ensued and the Los Angeles Angels procured him for $200, 000. The intensity of this war led Major league baseball to instill a draft in 1965.
4. Rick was the first player to ever hit a home run at Anaheim stadium.
5. He joined the White Sox in 1971.
1. Rick socialized with famous Hollywood stars of the Sixties. We will find out who during his visit.
2. At the University of Wisconsin, he twice led the BIG 10 in batting and also was a star fullback on the 1962 #2 ranked Rose Bowl team.
3. Reichart was highly rated by baseball scouts. A bidding war ensued and the Los Angeles Angels procured him for $200, 000. The intensity of this war led Major league baseball to instill a draft in 1965.
4. Rick was the first player to ever hit a home run at Anaheim stadium.
5. He joined the White Sox in 1971.
STRANGE BASEBALL RULES AND REGULATIONS
For the next few editions of the CUBS WORLD newsletter, we will be focusing on some of the most perplexing and interesting rules in baseball. This first one I found interesting because I've never seen it happen more than once.
I think the toughest position for any ball player is being a catcher. Everything from sloppy curves to missile like projections come toward your face each and every game. This is in addition to all the hot padding and layers worn behind the plate.
If a ball is thrown and gets stuck in a face mask, what happens then after five minutes of laughter? Do you know?
Each runner gets an automatic advance to the next base! In fact, if the ball gets stuck on ANY part of a catchers uniform, runners rejoice!
MORE STRANGE RULES TO COME IN THE MONTHS AHEAD!
For the next few editions of the CUBS WORLD newsletter, we will be focusing on some of the most perplexing and interesting rules in baseball. This first one I found interesting because I've never seen it happen more than once.
I think the toughest position for any ball player is being a catcher. Everything from sloppy curves to missile like projections come toward your face each and every game. This is in addition to all the hot padding and layers worn behind the plate.
If a ball is thrown and gets stuck in a face mask, what happens then after five minutes of laughter? Do you know?
Each runner gets an automatic advance to the next base! In fact, if the ball gets stuck on ANY part of a catchers uniform, runners rejoice!
MORE STRANGE RULES TO COME IN THE MONTHS AHEAD!
CUBS WORLD MEMBERS MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Hi everybody! I would like all CUBS WORLD members to know that your events planning team will be closing out 2019 with a BANG! Rick Reichart , the most important player you've never heard of, will speak at our OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING.
In November, Bruce Miles, Daily Herald sports writer will be here to not only address CUBS WORLD, but also do some research as to why so many Chicagoans have moved to the Villages. With your help we might be able to entice him to return every year!
Ever hear of the DYNAMIC DOGS? No. Its not a new weiner sold at Wrigley. It's the most popular show in the VILLAGES! These talented folks are preparing a special CUBS-THEMED EXTRAVAGANZA to kick off January! Visit the CUBS WORLD site soon for details!
Also next year, we will be honored with another visit from Ric Mitchell with a new baseball trivia game.
I may have a busy desk, but your comments and suggestions are always encouraged.
Hi everybody! I would like all CUBS WORLD members to know that your events planning team will be closing out 2019 with a BANG! Rick Reichart , the most important player you've never heard of, will speak at our OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING.
In November, Bruce Miles, Daily Herald sports writer will be here to not only address CUBS WORLD, but also do some research as to why so many Chicagoans have moved to the Villages. With your help we might be able to entice him to return every year!
Ever hear of the DYNAMIC DOGS? No. Its not a new weiner sold at Wrigley. It's the most popular show in the VILLAGES! These talented folks are preparing a special CUBS-THEMED EXTRAVAGANZA to kick off January! Visit the CUBS WORLD site soon for details!
Also next year, we will be honored with another visit from Ric Mitchell with a new baseball trivia game.
I may have a busy desk, but your comments and suggestions are always encouraged.
Bruce Miles is the highly-respected beat writer covering the Chicago Cubs for the Daily Herald, the third largest newspaper in Illinois that covers the Northwest and Western suburbs of Chicago. He has been in that role since 1998 and has covered major league baseball as a whole since 1989 – which means that over the last 21 years he has seen both the ups and the downs of the Chicago Cubs. I know that he will have lots of interesting stories to tell about his 20+ years of covering our team – from the 1998 wild card game through the World Series and more.
Bruce began his career as a freelance writer with the Daily Herald in 1981, covering all forms of high school sports before joining the sports copy desk full time in 1988. During his 30+ years with the newspaper he has also covered other Chicago teams. A native of Chicago, Bruce is a graduate of Schaumburg High School and Loyola University. He has won awards from the Associated Press and was named the Illinois Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sportscasters Association. Bruce is a long-time member of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America and votes on Hall of Fame candidates annually.
On a personal level, I have found Bruce to be an outstanding writer and always willing to share his information on the Chicago Cubs. He is a frequent contributer to WSCR the SCORE sports radio in Chicago. While he is not a personal friend, I have met Bruce several times at various forums related to the Chicago Cubs and always found him to be well informed as well as a downright nice guy! We are email friends, and when I write to Bruce with questions about the Cubs, he always answers quickly and with precise information on the Chicago North Side baseball team.
Bruce began his career as a freelance writer with the Daily Herald in 1981, covering all forms of high school sports before joining the sports copy desk full time in 1988. During his 30+ years with the newspaper he has also covered other Chicago teams. A native of Chicago, Bruce is a graduate of Schaumburg High School and Loyola University. He has won awards from the Associated Press and was named the Illinois Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sportscasters Association. Bruce is a long-time member of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America and votes on Hall of Fame candidates annually.
On a personal level, I have found Bruce to be an outstanding writer and always willing to share his information on the Chicago Cubs. He is a frequent contributer to WSCR the SCORE sports radio in Chicago. While he is not a personal friend, I have met Bruce several times at various forums related to the Chicago Cubs and always found him to be well informed as well as a downright nice guy! We are email friends, and when I write to Bruce with questions about the Cubs, he always answers quickly and with precise information on the Chicago North Side baseball team.
A 17 year old female pitcher named Jackie Miller once struck out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig in succession. This took place during an exhibition game between the NEW YORK YANKEES and AA CHATTANOOGA LOOKOUTS!
In 1904, a man named James Bennett (no relation to Tony), invented what to his mind was the perfect uniform for catchers. Obviously the design did not catch on and we can be further grateful that none of Bennett's descendants have ever been employed by NASA!
The great Johnny Bench had the ability to hold seven baseballs in one hand. However, there is no indication whatsoever that he could HIT seven balls at one time.
Did you know that during World War Two, the United States Army designed hand grenades to fit the diameter and weight of a baseball to make it easier for the troops to throw?
Cub fans love to sing "TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME" as led by Harry Carey during the 7th inning stretch. The tune is beloved.
It was written by composers,Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer back in 1908. It might be interesting to note that until the song was published and shared with the public, neither gentleman had ever attended a BASEBALL GAME!
MORE FUN FACTS TO COME NEXT MONTH...
It was written by composers,Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer back in 1908. It might be interesting to note that until the song was published and shared with the public, neither gentleman had ever attended a BASEBALL GAME!
MORE FUN FACTS TO COME NEXT MONTH...
Increasing frustration over
Mr. Crooked Hat!
Joe Maddon loves Pedro Strop and, despite numerous problems, still thinks he is a positive force in the bull pen. But lets face it....recently whenever Strop pitches, we know he'll hit a pitcher, fill the bases and then watch one player after the next pop around home plate like a tsunami. Its getting old!
His problems are being addressed by the pitching coaches who are trying to find a way for his control and velocity to improve. Perhaps he should straighten out that crooked cap, which in reality is a physical reminder of how rebellious pedro was when he was young. Maybe its time to forget about the past and concentrate on the present!
Mr. Crooked Hat!
Joe Maddon loves Pedro Strop and, despite numerous problems, still thinks he is a positive force in the bull pen. But lets face it....recently whenever Strop pitches, we know he'll hit a pitcher, fill the bases and then watch one player after the next pop around home plate like a tsunami. Its getting old!
His problems are being addressed by the pitching coaches who are trying to find a way for his control and velocity to improve. Perhaps he should straighten out that crooked cap, which in reality is a physical reminder of how rebellious pedro was when he was young. Maybe its time to forget about the past and concentrate on the present!
SO WHAT DO YOU THINK CUBS WORLD MEMBERS?
I cannot recall a season where umpires have caused such confusion and upset in the major league. Our beloved Joe Maddon has a couple of favorites. Joe West comes to mind!
Managers are not the only souls to be ejected from games this year. Ian Happ while pinch hitting, became upset with a call, tossed his bat and began screaming at umpire Victor Carrapaza. Because of this ejection, a window of opportunity to pull ahead of the Nationals was slammed shut and the rest is sad history.
The question is....are umpires out of control? Do we need to start ejecting umpires before they start ejecting fans and vendors? Let CUBS WORLD know your thoughts on this matter. We always love hearing from you.
I cannot recall a season where umpires have caused such confusion and upset in the major league. Our beloved Joe Maddon has a couple of favorites. Joe West comes to mind!
Managers are not the only souls to be ejected from games this year. Ian Happ while pinch hitting, became upset with a call, tossed his bat and began screaming at umpire Victor Carrapaza. Because of this ejection, a window of opportunity to pull ahead of the Nationals was slammed shut and the rest is sad history.
The question is....are umpires out of control? Do we need to start ejecting umpires before they start ejecting fans and vendors? Let CUBS WORLD know your thoughts on this matter. We always love hearing from you.
