Too Little, Too Late

The words of Ryan Dempster rang true in responding to questions about the recent Arizona series on Fox News Chicago's Final Word. Too little, too late. At least in relation to anything to do with last season's post-season debacle. The D-Backs put it on the Cubs last October and nothing in May 2008 is going to help that.

However, for the 2008 Cubbies, this weekend's series sweep came just in time. Starting off a long home stand against one of the hottest teams in the National League, the Cubs needed to look good, if not win the series. They did that and more. The pitching of Lilly was great and Dempster was solid, if not great, while keeping his team in the game. Sunday's rain delay kept us from seeing a matchup of Big Z vs Big Unit, but on short notice, Sean Gallagher looked good in his first start in the Majors. Marmol and Woody continue to look good of late and Eyre was effective in his return.

On the other side, Soriano was big in this series with clutch hitting and some runs scored. Nevertheless, I think those of us watching didn't see much spring in those legs and I hope it is something that will be worked out in time. The rest of the gang filled in all over, giving this ballclub the distinct feel of a whole unit, as opposed to a few big players hoping to cover for holes galore (HRs from Lee, Fukudome, Johnson, SB from Ramirez). The bench bat of Daryle Ward proved its immense worth yet again, getting pinch hits to tie and to take the lead on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.

Three come-from-behind wins is good sign. Particularly when you aren't talking about giant comebacks, but a club that stayed close and kept at it until the final out.

The Cubs find themselves locked with St. Louis at the top of the Central (with one fewer loss and one fewer win than the Cards) with 7 upcoming home games - 4 with San Diego and 3 with Pittsburgh - that should allow the Cubs' stellar home record to continue. With Big Z pitching tonight on good rest, look for a fourth straight victory vs Wolf and the Padres.