Piniella Not Satisfied. Can You Blame Him?

For all you die-hard Cubbie fans out there, next year is finally here. However, it seems as though someone forgot to remind the $100 million Chicago Cubs. With 5 spring training games under their belts, Chicago's lovable losers were winless until today's 6 - 5 victory over Seattle. This coming after begin outscored in their first 4 outings 36-15. With many question marks still remaining in the starting rotation, a lack of offense is the last thing I want to see.

Manager Lou Piniella didn't even wait until after today's game to let the team know he is unsatisfied with what he has seen so far. Before getting on the bus to Peoria, to take on the Mariners, Piniella made it clear that they had a lot of work to do.

"We've got some work to do. this is no push-button operation. Let me tell you this - there is a job at hand." Said Piniella.

While some were inspired just enough to edge out a win, Mark Prior was obviously not one of them. Prior made his first Cactus League appearance since 2005 and had to be taken out in the second inning after throwing only 40 pitches. He made it clear that his performance was poor by saying,

"I wasn't happy with how I threw [...] I wouldn't say i was comfortable out there as far as pitching and obviously executing pitches"

It is still far to early to predict how the Cubs will fair in 2007, but their lack of enthusiasm thus far combined with their infamous track record, makes it hard for even the biggest fans to remain optimistic. Everyone seems to be excited about all the changes that took place within the Cubs organization, except for those who actually matter - the players. Maybe I have unrealistic expectations for this season, but is it asking to much to not be blown out in spring training?

I guess for now I just have to look on the bright side: Kerry Wood miraculously made it through an entire inning without ending up on the DL, it's a long season, and there is ALWAYS next year.