Seriously, we Cub Fans haven't had our mettle tested much at all this year.
Everything's pretty much come up roses.
Today, we'll find out if Carlos Zambrano is really hurt or not, but the reality is he hasn't been himself for about a month.
The reality is he's been about as good as maybe a 3rd or 4th starter for August.
You hope there's not really any damage in his shoulder, but I think if you're a pro ball player who relies on his arm for a living, you'd know.
I figure that's why he refused the mri yesterday.
So my expectations are the worst.
But I'm also telling you even if he's out, it's not the end of the world.
Somebody'll have to step up.
But... I'm getting ahead of myself.
My suggestion to you for today is to find a cozy bar and enjoy a bracing shot of room temperature whiskey.
Don't skimp on quality, either.
Tell the bartender why you're there, and discuss all the choices.
Hopefully he or she will fill the glass to the top, so that when you pick it up you might lose a drop or two on the journey.
And you will remember a little extra tip for that pour and the added bonus of anticipation that your extra concentration will create.
Jake's Pub at Clark and Oakdale is an excellent place to try this suggestion.
Scott and all of his staff are fully versed in brown liquor.
And when you find out one way or the other about Carlos, you might have another while considering the September/October future of Rich Harden, who has also expressed concern about his shoulder.
And then, get some sleep because tomorrow will be a new day, and this glorious season starts back up again in Cincinnati.
A wise man once said don't worry about the stuff you can't control: you'll scatter all your marbles.
Right now, what the Cubs can control is their bats, which to me is their most immediate concern.
They need a big game, one with lots of runs.
One with that giant and merciless inning that's been eluding them - the one where they bat around and put up a big crooked number and ruin the other team.
They are the first place Chicago Cubs, it's time to start acting like it again.
Here's to hoping that starts tomorrow.
Cheers.
