Alrighty folks, that was some game with many interesting moments, insights, and outliers. After taking in my first in person game since 2021, I figured it would be good to share with the board.

In no particular order:

1.) For the first time in a long time, this team has energy. We are no longer languishing in between LaRussa naps or Griffol false bravado. Will Venable is lively, youthful, and already is demonstrating wisdom. Before the game during BP he was jogging the bases, tossing balls at camera men, and was focused yet loose. When the team was down by 1 run heading into the ninth inning, he came down into the dugout from the top step and huddled up the guys. While we didn’t end up scoring we loaded the bases and had opportunities to score.

2.) The youthful energy exposes one of our greatest weaknesses: Lack of experience. With a runner on third and Colson up with one out, all he needed to do was get the ball in the air. Sam was on third and was like a dog pulling on a leash to get his toy at home. He would have scored on almost anything hit in the air. Instead of making contact, Montgomery struck out.

3.) Erik Feddie and Anthony Kay will not be in our starting rotation IF we are in serious playoff contention come August. Smith will need to smooth his command and be called up as a back of the rotation option and we will likely need to trade for another arm.

4.) These guys never give up and have a belief in themselves that has been a gaping hole in years past. ( Speaking of years past, it was such a joy to rag on Yoan Moncada. I know he heard me and the bum deserves an ear full until he is out of the league where his premadonana ass belongs ).

5.) When Teel is back, he will bring another dimension of winning ball. He is the Paul Konerko like approach oriented example others on the team need to learn from ( Vargas and Montgomery, here’s looking at you. )

6.) Our bullpen looks like a real strength and it is so nice to have a new coaching staff around the team. It shows in the dugout and on the field.

7.) It was nice to see Will be quick to make changes to the lineup when the game dictated it. Though, I questioned his preference for Kelenck over Grechic AND wanted him to pinch hit Romo in Quero’s spot at the games end.

Bottom line: This game was confirmation that we are moving in the right direction… fast. It will only get better as these players get maturity, get reinforcements from more call ups, deadline trades, and returning players from the IL.

I had thought we would see a playoff run by 2028 but this team has me thinking next year we will crack that milestone ( if there’s a season ). Hell, if the cards fall in the right spots and Vasil’s wand works its magic… we may see THIS team in the playoffs…

And to even be having such thoughts at this point in the season… it is a welcomed surprise.

Check back tomorrow for a reprise.

Way too optimistic but appreciate the info.

8 minutes ago, chitownsportsfan said:

Way too optimistic but appreciate the info.

Can't expect every prospect to hit the ground running.

Pitching already taking a hit.

Expectations for Braden and Bonemer and Cholowsky probably on the unrealistic side...that they're just going to take off like Colson and Murakami.

Teel definitely will have his struggles getting his timing back.

Hitters that miss ST and 1-2 months almost always do struggle until the second half.

Martin's not going to remain third best starter in mlb.