The Cubs swept the Dodgers 12-6 and 11-1 in the first round of the playoffs on 8/29.
The Cubs extended their 2010 record to an amazing 17-1. Of course the record is meaningless now that we are in the
playoffs. The Cubs will host the 13-5 Cardinals in the NLCS on 9/12 and must be ready to compete if they wish to
defend their 2008 and 2009 League Championships.
The bad story in this one for the Cubs was the shaky defense. After being tremendous all year long, the Cubs made
5 errors in game 1. The good news from
game 1 was Tom Barnes battling on the mound for 8 innings allowing 6 runs, only 2 of which were earned. Also, the Cubs
offense which scored 8 of the 12 runs with 2 out clutch hits including their first 7 runs.
As always for the Cubs, pitching was the key for both wins. Tom Barnes was very good in game one, going 8 innings
allowing just two earned runs. PJ O'Toole pitched a 1-2-3 9th to close out the win.
The Cubs bats scored a lot of runs, putting up 23 runs in the two games. In the first game, the first 7 runs
were all scored on two out hits. In the first inning, there were 2 outs and no one on when PJ O'Toole ripped a triple
to right and scored on a bullet single by Ken Hamm. In the second inning with one out, the Cubs loaded the bases with
Dennis reaching on an error, then Ricker lining a single to center and the Glenn getting his first of two hit by
pitches in the game. Tom Barnes then reach on a fielders choice with Dennis being forced at the plate. With the Cubs
trailing 2-1 at the time, this was a huge moment in the game for Brad Adams. Brad cleared the bases with a double to
left center. Roberto followed with an RBI single to put the Cubs up 5-2. In the 4th, there were 2 outs and no one on
base when Dennis and Ricker singled and then Glenn loaded the bases again by getting an HBP. This time Tom Barnes
singled home two runs for a 7-3 lead. In the 6th, the Cubs scored two runs on singles by Dennis and Ricker that drove
home Earl and Eddie. Mark Grogan had a two out RBI single in the 7th which drove home Tom Barnes who had singled to
lead off the inning. Ken and Earl had RBI singles in the 8th.