Game 48 Recap: Cubs 7, Dodgers 0

The Cubs put together perhaps their best all around game of the season on Saturday as they completely manhandled the Los Angeles Dodgers 7-0. Ryan Dempster produced his best outing of the year to improve to 4-3, while Eric Stults took the loss for the Dodgers to fall to 4-2. Dempster went 7 strong innings, giving up only 3 hits while striking out 5. With his shutout outing today, Dempster lowered his ERA by over a half a run.

As for the Cubs offense, there were many stars. Mike Fontenot got things going with a two out RBI double to right center in the 2nd inning, scoring Reed Johnson. With two outs in the 3rd and Ryan Theriot on third base, Reed Johnson laid down a perfect bunt to score the Riot to extend the Cubs lead to 2-0. The Dodgers’ infielders were playing back and Johnson dropped the bunt right down the third base line and no one had a play. The Los Angeles starter was done after three innings, but the Cubs offense was not.

In the 4th inning, Mike Fontenot struck again as he tripled to deep right center scoring Bobby Scales. Ryan Theriot then lined a RBI single to left to give the Cubs a 4-0 advantage. With the terrible Jeff Weaver now pitching for the Dodgers, Geovany Soto would bring another run in as he drew a bases loaded walk. Bobby Scales provided another run by way of a bases loaded double play with no outs which scored Milton Bradley. The scoring would end in the 7th inning when Reed Johnson launched a solo YAK EM!!! onto Waveland Avenue.

Johnson being congratulated by manager Lou Piniella after his solo YAK EM!!!

There were many positives to today’s game, particularly from the offense. Mike Fontenot went 2-3 with a 2B, 3B, and an intentional walk. Milton Bradley continues his improved hitting as he went 3-4 with 3 singles and a run scored. Reed Johnson had a great game at the plate going 3-3 with a YAK EM!!!, RBI single, another single, and a walk. The Cubs obviously need these players to contribute, especially since Aramis Ramirez is still about a month away from coming back. With all the injuries the Cubs have dealt with, if they can still play over .500 ball without their best hitter, they will be in good shape for the stretch run.

The Cubs improved to 25-23 on the season and the Dodgers dropped to 34-17. These teams will conclude this series on Sunday night when Sean Marshall opposes Eric Milton. The game will be televised on ESPN.

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