10/07/2003 03:07:00 PM by Rob

Game 1 of the NLCS

I am looking for a Houdini-like struggle out of Z tonight. I think he is going to make the mistake of not bearing down on their leadoff men, they are going to get on base a few times, and drive us all crazy by their running.

But unlike many mediocre-to-bad hurlers, Z will battle. He may give up 3 or 4 runs tonight, but he is going to keep fighting until Captain Tighpants time in the 7th or 8th.

The hitters are going to have to do their part to stay ahead. It seemed like four of the five Atlanta games, we scored a few runs early and then held on. We need to concentrate on situational hitting, not just in the first inning, but all game long. Step on their nuts, stomp hard!! Keep swinging, keep running, keep scoring!

Grud needs to be more patient. Sosa needs to keep swinging hard, but connect with a few for a change. I think we are looking at Simon tonight, right? Beckett throws righty. Beckett hasn't figured it all out yet, he could be dynamite, or he could suck. Patience at the plate, make him throw strikes.

We need to win these games. I have already penciled in two wins from Prior, and one from Wood. We need Z or Clement to win one. Why not this one, at home?

This is the REAL playoffs now. This is when it really matters. If we lose, then I guess we can be considered a "contender". But by all indications, we are the favorites in this series. We have advantages in the rotation, the outfield corners, perhaps the infield corners, and bench, as well as the manager. But we were favored in 1984, as well. We got off strong, Mike Royko wrote his column about how mellow San Diegans are, and they came out en masse to cheer their Taco Bell looking fucks to the Pennant.

There is no reason that we shouldn't win this pennant. But God, You know I'm a sinner, You know I have sinned against You. I didn't mean to, but I am a weak, weak man. I love the Lord, but I am not worthy to follow Him. What's it gonna be, Lord? Are You going to bless us miserable Cub fans at last? Are You going to let me see a winner before I die? Or are You gonna slam-fuck me again? Is it going to be slow and gradual, like the decay of the 1969 team? Or are ya gonna fuck me hard, without no lube, like 1984?

Frank from the Coven said it best...in New York, they are wondering who the next Reggie is gonna be...I'm wondering who the next Durham is gonna be.

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