The “Sultan of Schwarb” was on full display yesterday despite the Cubs falling to the Atlanta Braves 4-2. Kyle Schwarber went 3 for 4 and once again proving that he belongs up in the majors. Schwarber was called up after an injury to Miguel Montero.
“It helped to get all the ‘firsts’ out of the way, all the nerves, just the awe factor of being here,” Schwarber said. “That got away the first day when I was up here. After that, it was all just about winning. I’m up here to go out and win and help the team compete and get a playoff spot. I don’t know how long it’s going to be for, but I’ll play for as long as it can be.”
Could Schwarber be the answer? What will become of David Ross? Personally, I don’t think it’s fair or even wise for Ross to catch Jon Lester. The way that the ace is pitching, I would start warming up with another catcher.
The 2015 Chicago Cubs reminds me so much of that wonderful play, “Glengarry Glenn Ross” by David Mamet. In the film version, there was that monologue about the ABC’s of selling. “Always Be Closing” the problem is that the Cubs have had so much trouble in that area this season. Although I admire Joe Maddon’s attempt at match ups, I think the Cubs should try and focus on one closer. You know, that light’s out kind of guy that legends are made of. Aroldis Chapman stuff. This is the area that I feel the Cubs are going to make the move at the deadline. Pedro Strop isn’t cutting it. He’s got a lot of stuff left in his arm but in order for the Cubs to move forward in the season, he’s not the right guy at the position.
“It’s not going the way I want it,” Pedro Strop said. “The stuff is there, I feel good, nothing’s hurting. It’s just not going my way right now.”
The Cubs are teetering on the Wild Card spot. How much more of these close games can they take?
Believe It.
The Canuck Cubbie 
Good point about Lester and Ross. Lester is going to be with the Cubs for a long time, but not Ross. I’ve never been a fan of the personal catcher concept. Pitchers need to be well-acquainted with both or all three of the catchers on their club. Yes perhaps they have one catcher as a preference, but as a matter of simple survival, pitchers should have the backup/other catcher play with them every so often.
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I am sure there are examples, but when was the last time a team went all the way using closer-by-committee? Seems like it has to be Mott by default. Maddon tells him, you’re the guy, period, and have him focus on that role. It would be a bit of a gambit but it’s getting too late in the season to be wondering who is going to hold your lead in the 9th inning of the wildcard playoff.
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Yeah, I agree. Plus, it would give a vote of confidence and Mott would be even better knowing he’s the guy.
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