Pitching and defense win championships. Today, the Cubs had neither. Strike that. This season, the Cubs have had neither.
Carlos Pena, at least, was clearly invigorated by the team’s decision to withdraw him from waivers – he had a couple nice “hustle” hits (including a bunt single against the shift), stole a base, and had a great diving stab in the field. Marlon Byrd had a solo homer. Otherwise, he was busy leaving guys on base.