I don't know which is more maddening. Watching the Cubs throw the ball away consistently or watching them flounder at the plate. I read a good article the other day that called for the Cubs to expect a little more out of their hitting coach, Gary Matthews. I am beginning to agree with that article as each at bat fails. I think the most frustrating thing is how none of the Cubs' hitters EVER move closer to the plate. You know it, and I know it, that a slider low and away is coming. Yet they still swing and miss, and it is because they all stand about 6 feet from the plate. Sammy, Derrek, Aramis and Moises have some of the quickest bats I have ever seen, yet they all seem so afraid of the inside pitch.

Well, the Astros won today, putting the Cubs three back. And, Kerry went out with sore triceps. Hopefully, this is the Cubs bad stretch, and they will turn it on once they get healthy....if it ever happens.  ¶ 11:41 PM