Cubs vs. Hawks

"Cubs cede radio time to Hawks."

Just so you won't get confused:

Cubs 3, Dodgers 0

Hero: Ryan Dempster (3-4) won for the first time since April 23 and ended a stretch in which he posted four losses and a no-decision. Dempster worked eight shutout innings. He allowed just three hits, walked one, struck out seven, and retired the final 13 batters he faced. Only four Dodgers reached base - two in the first inning and two more in the fourth.

Sim Zam

Carlos Zambrano is scheduled to throw a simulated game today in preparation for his return to the starting rotation. We have a preview.

The Cub Factor

Just when we thought it was safe to not care. Just when you were going to trade in your fungoes for hockey sticks. Just when you thought you would spend a little more time in the backyard this summer. Just then, the Cubs go ahead and win for a week.

Don't get me wrong, this doesn't mean they are back in it. But it's enough to have to keep tuning in.

Ryno Leads Race To Succeed Lou

I do not believe that Lou Piniella will be fired, but I'm quite certain that when the Cubs open the 2011 season, Uncle Lou will be sprawled out on a hammock in the backyard of his home in Tampa, Fla.

Cubs 5, Rangers 4

Hero: Sean Marshall entered in the bottom of the seventh with the Cubs clinging to a one-run lead, the bases loaded, and two outs. He escaped a mess that was created by John Grabow and Bob Howry, retiring Josh Hamilton on a soft liner to second baseman Ryan Theriot. Marshall also worked a hitless eighth while striking out two and lowering his ERA to 1.93. Marshall is 4-0 with a 0.90 ERA and has allowed just two hits while striking out 12 in 10 innings this month.

Will Cubs Knock On Wood?

With the impending return to the starting rotation by Carlos Zambrano, the Cubs will be left with a gigantic void to fill in their bullpen.

Cubs 5, Rangers 4 (10 innings)

Hero: Randy Wells surrendered a pair of solo homers - to Vladamir Guerrero and Nelson Cruz - and did not figure in the decision. But he was efficient and terrific. The right-hander, who consistently was ahead in the count while delivering 105 pitches, worked 8 1/3 innings, allowing three runs (all earned) and seven hits. He walked one, struck out six, and retired 14 of the final 15 Texas hitters he faced.

Section 218, Row 15, Seat 2

My friend, Kevin, won an auction last winter and was awarded 50 terrace reserved tickets to a Cubs game, plus the right to throw out a ceremonial first pitch.

Rangers 2, Cubs 1

Hero: Ted Lilly (1-4) did not have his best stuff, but battled through 6 2/3 innings. The veteran left-hander allowed two runs (both earned) on six hits while walking three and striking out four.