Rich Harden Strikes Out 11 In Cubs Debut

Chicago Cub fans got their first taste of Rich Harden on Saturday against the San Francisco Giants. Rich Harden struck out 11 Giants in only 5 1/3 innings. Expect a lot of 5-6 inning performances, since Lou Piniella will be keeping a close eye on Rich Harden's pitch count. Harden was held to 96 pitches, but if they can keep Harden healthy, then you will be hard pressed to find any Cub fan complaining at all! Order A Rich Harden Chicago Cubs Jersey


Chad Gaudin, who some may overlook may prove to be the "steal" in the Hardin trade. Gaudin is a young and talented relief pitcher that can pitch several innings out of the bullpen, or even get an occasional start. Chad Gaudin is only 25 years old, and he could give the Cubs big three relievers (Howry, Marmol, and Wood), some much need rest during the dog days of august.

Chad Gaudin is sorely needed at a time when Carlos Marmol can't seem to find the plate on the mound. Marmol gave up a five run lead in the ninth inning to erase Rich Harden's strong performance on the mound. Marmol clearly needs to be shut down until after the all star break, to rest his arm and to get his composure back.

Reed Johnson saved the Cubs from a heartbreaking defeat by singling to right field, scoring Mark Derosa who led off the 11th inning with a walk.

The Cubs jumped on the San Francisco Giants early and often jumping out to a 7-0 lead, led by Jim Edmonds 4 rbi's including a homerun. Jim Edmonds has provided much needed power from the left side, and can still play a superb center field. Order A Chicago Cubs Jim Edmonds Jersey
You have to give Jim Hendry some credit. His moves thus far have helped mold a "good" Chicago Cubs team, to quite possibly the strongest team in Major League Baseball.

A healthy one, two, three punch of Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster, and Rich Harden can much up against any team in baseball during a playoff series. Lets all just hope the Cubs continue to play good baseball, and it comes down to that.