Finally

And so the losing streak is over. The Cubs were far from perfect, but in the 6th inning they were perfect enough. A single by Pierre, a walk by Walker, a double by Ramirez, a walk by Murton, and a double by Jones. Absent a hit by Lee, it's almost how we would have drawn it up on day 1.

Actually, they may have won the game without that inning, with how Zambrano overmatched the Giants lineup, but it certainly felt different with the big lead. Tensions disappeared. There were even signs of the baseball gods agreeing that enough was enough when the ball skipped away from Frandsen and Jones managed a double on a Baltimore chop.

I don't like it that Bonds at bats are almost bigger than the game, but I'll admit that they've created some big moments for us to enjoy. The catch by Pierre to rob 714 last night was awesome, and when Zambrano had a chance to attack Bonds -- with the bases empty and a 2 run lead -- he threw nothing but heat, capped by a 96mph cut fastball that was as pretty a pitch as there could be. Even in game 9 of a disastrous road trip, plays like that make the games worth watching.

And now I can go to sleep without being pissed off. The situation is still dire, but a respite is all we could ask for, and we got it. Zambrano is off the schnide, the offense showed signs, and now we can be somewhat encouraged again.

There is a lot more to say, and I'll say it in the coming days. For now, though, I want to stop thinking about the Cubs. A win is a win, and that's all they can do tonight.

Hey hey!