Frustrating way to end it

Oh Mark. Thank you for a wonderful season- don't be so hard on yourself. The team as a whole went into a slump at a bad time, so it's not to be laid on one man's shoulders, especially yours. I hope you have a wonderful off season with your beautiful family, and we'll see you again in February. May 2008 treat us all better, though we had a lot of fun this year.

I wish I could've watched the games, but don't have enough cable. I did follow the action on Yahoo Sports, tho. You, Mark don't need to be too shamed over one bad at-bat. You seemed to be carrying the series. See the series batting averages below.
See you next year on WGN. Karen in Tucson AZ.

Player TEAM POS G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB BB SO SB CS OBP SLG AVG

1. M DeRosa

CHC 2B 3 9 2 3 0 0 0 0 3 2 2 0 0 .500 .333 .333

2. J Jones

CHC OF 3 9 1 2 1 0 0 0 3 3 1 0 0 .417 .333 .222

3. D Lee

CHC 1B 3 12 1 4 0 0 0 0 4 1 4 0 0 .385 .333 .333

4. A Ramirez

CHC 3B 3 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 0 0 .077 .000 .000

5. A Soriano

CHC OF 3 14 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 1 4 0 0 .200 .143 .143

6. R Theriot

CHC SS 3 12 0 3 0 0 0 1 3 1 1 1 0 .308 .250 .250

7. D Ward

CHC - 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 1 1 0 0 .667 1.000 .500

8. R Cedeno

CHC - 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

9. C Floyd

CHC OF 2 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 .375 .000 .000

10. M Fontenot

CHC - 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 .000 .000 .000

11. B Howry

CHC P 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

12. C Marmol

CHC P 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

13. G Soto

CHC C 2 6 1 1 0 0 1 2 4 2 1 0 0 .375 .667 .167

14. K Wood

CHC P 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

15. M Wuertz

CHC P 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

16. R Dempster

CHC P 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

17. S Eyre

CHC P 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

18. K Hart

CHC P 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

19. R Hill

CHC P 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000

20. J Kendall

CHC C 1 4 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 .250 .250 .250

21. T Lilly

CHC P 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 .000 .000 .000

22. M Murton

CHC OF 1 4 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 .250 .250 .250

23. F Pie

CHC - 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 .000 .000 .000

24. C Zambrano

CHC P 1 3 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 .333 .667 .333

Mark,

While I am disappointed (aren't we all), I know that you did try your best. That is all true Cub fans can ask. There will be a tremendous amount of negative comments posted, but I am glad mine will be the first because I have nothing but good things to say. You guys did a tremendous job this year when no one thought you would. You gave us all hope for the future. Don't let this eat you up all winter. Just remember that we still love you guys. Thanks for a great season.

Rebel

To Mark and all the Cubs: Thank you for the wonderful year. I know you and your teammates wanted to win it ALL for all of us Die Hard Cub fans. Please don't be disappointed in your efforts. You gave us great at bats and excellent defense at numerous positions. You were a very unexpected treat.

True Cub fans won't give up. We know there is no curse. You guys have only had a year to work together. It will happen and the victory will be sweet. I'm already counting the days until Spring Training. Until then, go home and enjoy your families.

Love,

A Very Loyal Cub Fan

Mark, you guys have alot to be proud of...
cubs players and all cubs fans have a bad taste in their mouth after what happened the last few days, but in a week or so, when it is history, most people will look back on this season and see, not "chokes" or "curses" or failure. Rather, they will remember all those walk off wins, the exciting race through september, coming alive in june when the team looked like it would be as bad as the one in '06, and all those awesome memories.

Mr. Hendry has some tinkering to do...the team is not quite there yet, but i have a great feeling that next year is gonna be even better than this one...

I'm dissapointed, but i'm more sad that i dont get to see another cubs game till march 31st...

Winters are soooo boring...

Enjoy your vacation, you were awesome for us this year...

Next year is our year!

GO CUBS GO!

Mark,

Don't worry too much about what happened. I had to sit the heart stopping moments like you guys but that is just a start. Next year, you'll be ten times better. You will have the experience. You'll be like sharks that tasted a drop of blood. Go get them and show who's the boss around MLB. So what...100 years. There is no such thing as a curse. It's all about the pitching, offense, defense, and getting the job done. GO CUBS!

Robert

I was ther watched the game unfold, sad way to end a season, in fact all 3 games were sad.

the big guns came up short, too many strilouts.swinging at balls they could not hit with canoe paddles.

I have been a cubs fan since 1963, 44 years of the same could have should have.

Some of youy guys gave your all others seemed like they laid down. Let your teammates know that they crushed the hearts of one cub family (mine) probablty others too.

Next year is just that next year, This year was the time, which slipped away. Next year means nothing to those of us waiting for a very ong time for a bus that almost arrives.

Mark you did good, made us Italians proud, but please tell all on the team to can the next year talk and show us. Make it happen.

Mark,

Don't be so hard on yourself. You and the rest of the team gave us all a great season and kept us believing all the way into the playoffs. All the true Cubs fans out there know that eventually we're going to win it all, and honestly, I know for a fact the team that we had this year was very capable of it and we all know that, just because it didn't happen this year doesn't mean we've given up hope. You better believe we're all going to be back next year supporting the team we love more than anything! Enjoy the winter and don't let that one at bat eat you up. You were one of the reasons we made it to the playoffs with your versatility in the field and clutch hitting, so please don't be so hard on yourself.

Ryne

Mark,
You are an awesome addition to the Cubs!!! I really think you will get MVP for this team this year. I've seen how you are able to learn from the mistakes like you talked about in this post... Use this for next season!!! WHAT DOESN'T KILL YOU ONLY MAKES YOU STRONGER!!!!!!!!!

GO '08 CUBS!!!!!!!!!!!

and mark, i love your style of play.....but what on EARTH were you thinking, swinging at ball 4 with the bases loaded? ugh! that would have brought us to within 1 with jacque jones up with the bases juiced. don't mean to pile on, but that one play sticks out to me..........sorry.

Mark:

I spoke to you when you were in town in St. Louis, I'm one of the chefs at Busch Stadium and die hard Cub fan. I have to admit I was one of the skeptical guys when Hendry got you. Now, I'm glad that you're one of our guys. YOU are our team MVP! Good luck next season and hope to see ya again. Goodspeed!

Mark,

I can't tell you not to beat yourself up over this, because you definitely are and I don't think that's going to stop. I just wanted to thank you for being so amazing and (sort of) turning me into a Cubs fan.

You're the reason I watched the Cubs in the first place, as a die-hard Astros fan down in Houston. You were the reason I would drive up to Dallas to see you play for the Rangers. And you're the reason I'm going to Chicago next summer, to see you be amazing in your own park.

Please don't beat yourself up *too* much. You're just too talented for that.

I'm very proud of you, and even though I'm sure that doesn't make any difference whatsoever, I just thought you should know it.

Thanks again for being such a great player, and an even better person. It's very, very appreciated.

--Jen--

Hey, matt@proautoparts.net--

I think he knows what he did wrong. No point in reminding him.

Thank you for getting us into October baseball, Mark. You are a class act.

You almpst wanna apologize to the fans. Nice can't wait for ticket prices to be raised again next year. Do you get fined for doing something fundamentally sound? Wow 20 years as a Cub fan. Just wow that's all I can say. You got outhustled smarted and just plain whooped. Wow maybe next year the Cubs can spend some money on a cardiologist. Because I see no one with any heart or passion other than Theriot.

Mark,
Over the course of the season, I have grown to tremedously respect and favor you as a player and a person. Please don't be so hard on yourself! I understand how frustrating it must be, but us fans can see the tremendous effort you put into every game and truly appreciate it! :) Now... breathe.. relax.. get away for a little while, and enjoy your much-deserved vacation. Can't wait to see you in the spring!! I love you and the cubs!!

Kathryn

I just wish I had the God Given talent to play in the big leagues because so many of them that do dont know how to play the game situational wise!!!

You're a class act and make people like myself want to continue to play the game even when we give up hope, You're the kind of player you can build a team around, I may be young but I think I know a thing or two about the game and being able to watch guys like you play everyday is a privilege...Keep doing the things you do because they're the right things and good people and good cubs fans know how hard all of you work, take it easy
Danny

knitorgohome@gmail.com--

go back to knitting. he's a grown man, and can take the criticism that his salary commands.

fumods@earthlink.net--

i agree with you 100%. it's getting harder and harder to root for this team. ramirez and soriano don't even run to first base, let alone hustle at all.

From a fans stand point you and ryan are the mvp's of the team and if it wasn't for u guys and your heart and passion there wouldn't have been an nlds sweep to get upset over. It really can only go up from here. Add a pitcher, tweak some minor things and we have a **** of a ball club...Thanks for representing jersey well, hope to meet you at the convention.

Hey DP DeRo: You're right, you blew it man! You got 2 harmless singles and when you needed a hit, you let us all down. I hope you do think about it everyday from now until next Spring Training. Y'know, on your yacht, at your celebrity golf tourney, at all your speaking engagements: where people regard you as some kind of a hero. Meanwhile, all us Cub fans who have really done something meaningful for this country (e.g. military service) have to wait another year for a World Series.

You should be upset. If not, I'm sure some of us intelligent Cub fans will be around to remind you. But cudos to you. At least you're man enough to admit it. Meanwhile, some of your foreign team-mates are laughing at us...all the way to the bank. How much did they pay ARam and Soriano? Something like $200mil between them. And they were a combined 2-for-2007 Playoffs? Shame on those charlatans!

Thanks for a GREAT season!! You are all awesome!! Looking forward to an even more exciting year next year!! You took us from worst to first!! Hold you head high!! This is just the beginning.....

Hey, thanks for a great ride and a great effort all year! For the first time in a LONG time, going into the off-season, I actually feel good about this team's chances for next year.

God bless, and take care in the off-season! It was fun while it lasted, so here's to even more good times (and a better ending) in 2008!

Mark,

If you weren't signed as a free agent this off season, I firmly believe that the Cubs, and us as Cubs fans wouldn't be here. 19 wins...19 wins better than last year. And honestly, pcjr42 is not a true cub fan...if it wasn't for the contributtions of all the Cubs during the regular season, there wouldn't have been a post season. I like the way things are going, and I like the potential for next year. I have been a cub fan all my life (almost 30 years now)...I am as hungry as any fan for a World Series title. I firmly believe it will happen with this group. Everyone had their struggles this year...it's just too bad everyone hit them at the same time, in the playoffs. Pass this along to the rest of the guys - I know it's hard, but don't hang your heads. Look forward, be proud. Proud to be a Cub. Proud to end the so called "Curses". It's time to be bigger than that, and for everyone, including fans, to quit hiding behind that. 1984, 1989, 1998, 2003, 2007...these are the chances I have seen come and go. We will get there. Fans, we need to support and be there for the guys. They need us as much as we need them. And Mark, I hope you end your career as a Chicago Cub. You are the meaning of a "team first" player. I will see you guys opening day 2008!

Ball 4 man. Ball 4.

Dude - I really enjoyed your effort and terrific interviews on local Chi sports radio. I'm a season ticket holder, and a fan for 40+ years - please bring it again next year.

I was hopin' you'd take one more pitch in the 5th - Livan had already walked 3 - but oh well - I am not standin' there!

I am glad to know that you really enjoyed playing in Wrigley for the home team - we're an amazing HUNGRY, bunch of fans.

I sincerely hope the fire will burn for you and your teammates in 2008.

Best in the offseason and I hope tonight will serve as personal fuel for you in your career! E-Man

I've been a Cub fan for 40 years and a season ticket holder for 22 years. I have never been so angry leaving a game as I was this evening. This was the most gutless display of clutch hitting I have ever seen. Forget all the Pollyannas with their nonsense about what a great year it was. The truth is that the Cubs were swept by a team loaded with rookies. It's utterly humiliating to lose to a team that's just a cut above Triple A level. I'm sick of coming to Wrigley Field and watching visiting teams hold their series clinching celebrations: Atlanta in 1998, Florida in 2003, now this. The tone was set with the manager's bizarre decision to remove Zambrano from Game 1 to keep him fresh for Game 4 (which will never be played). This was a disgrace, and no one affiliated with this laughing stock of an organization should dare come away from this season with a sense of having accomplished anything meaningful.

Mark, congratulations on a great season.

I am indeed a Cub fan, but not really that proud of it. We come from all walks of life and backgrounds. Its just that I've witnessed excellence and didn't see a whole lot of it from this team this year. And I'm a little less tolerant of failure than you are, that's all, jtmohr. Still, I bear no malice toward my fellow Cub fans, even though so many of you are silly and delusional.

Mark, try not to take it so hard. It just wasn't meant to be this season. This whole year you've come through for us, no matter where you were put both in the lineup and the field. One at bat won't erase all that. For this season you were the Cubs MVP, not only in the way you played, but in things like this when you take the hits to the team personally. I'm excited for where this team is going knowing it has class acts like you and Theriot who take every loss and see not that they did good and the rest didn't, but that the team didn't win and that's what counts.

I guess all there is to say, is thanks for being a part of an incredible season, and hopefully next postseason we can get all the pieces together and make an even better one.

DeRosa, you should have used common sense. There was 1 out, based loaded and a 3-1 count. The worst that could have happened was a strike, the best was a run if you just would have put the bat on your shoulder. Hernandez was almost done. What else can I say?

Mark, i think you are a great ball player, and i just want you to know that NONE of this is your fault. NONE. Not this game, not the first, the second, NONE. Livan threw you a 3-1 off spead breaking ball, or slider or something. Ram didnt show up, soriano didnt, the pitching didnt. You could not have been expecting that. It seemed you were out in front, and rolled over. IT HAPPENS. I am frustrated that soriano, aram, and the pitching staff did awful, but sometimes slumps hit you at bad times. I agree that this is the beginning. I am looking forward to watching you guys at Wrigley in summer 08. I really appreciate you doing this blog, u are a class act and a great man. i wish more pro athletes were like you.

Thanks for a great season, Mark!

What jastrnal has to understand is that the Cubs wear out their pitchers in post season. We would do well to remember how Zambrano pitched, the last time he had three days rest. Pulling him was good management. Jas, I know your angry. Cubs fans are angry. I mean, its been 100 years. But come on. The players are people too. They make mistakes. They are imperfect. Its the human factor. Its what makes life interesting. I, for one, am a Cubs fan. I might not be 40 years old, or a season ticket holder for 22 years, but I bleed Cubbie blue. If you are done being a Cubs fan, I would love to have your season tickets.

Mark,

You're a class act. Thank you and all of the Cubs for a wonderful and exciting season!

See ya next year!

Mr Derosa,
If you read this then you are reading what you should hear from real cubs fans: mark derosa BE BACK NEXT YEAR!

and now from me......

my wife does not really get into baseball.....I do. I introduced her to the cubs 4 years ago, we got married april of this year. it was this year (late june) when she said "hello" when you were coming to bat.

and you know what? I now have her watching baseball with me in those hot summer nights.

Mark,
One person can not win it all as well as one person can not lose it all. There were missed opportunities all around, but live and learn. This team grew leaps and bounds from last year - that in itself has been exciting to watch!! Take care and looking forward to spring!!

yes the fact that we lost our chance to go to the world series relly *****....i am very proud of u mark and the rest of the team. i have been a cubbie fan since i was big enough to watch the game....almost 40 years..and our time is coming. Just hang on ...keep doing what all of u did this season and we will take the championship....enjnoy your time off see ya all in march...GOOOOOO CUBBIESSSSS!!!!

Mark, don't hang your head - you have nothing to be ashamed of. First, this team went through a lot of adversity this season and we fans should appreciate the fact that you, your fellow team-mates and all the coaches and managers turned things around in June and made this tremendous run to the Central crown. If that had never happened, we wouldn't even have a NLDS series clincher to get all worked up about. Secondly, about the game last evening, any baseball player can get into that situation. And who's to say if anyone would have done any different. I've never played a lick of baseball, but I could understand how a player can get overly anxious for that next pitch. It was probably ball four, but either way, you gave the effort and the true Cubbie fans should respect that, myself included. You are a class act for this organization, though, Mark - for offering us fans this blog. I'm looking forward to 2008 Cubbie baseball... If I can request one thing, however... Can you or another team player offer us fans a blog for next season's campaign? Pat Neshek from the Twins has a blog of his own that he keeps throughout the season and it's proven very popular among Twins fans. It would be great to have something similar for next year. Have a great winter, Mark and extend to your team-mates the same.

I posted earlier, and I'd like to clarify a point. When I stated that this was the most gutless display of clutch hitting I've seen, that comment was not directed solely at Mr. Derosa's fifth inning at-bat. It was a comment about the entire team. Take your pick: Lee, Ramirez, Soriano, etc. Not once did any of these people come through with situational hitting. As far as the decision to pull Zambrano at a time when he was dominating the Arizona hitters, I must admit that Mr. Piniella was right. Zambrano will be extremely well rested for his next start: in March, in the Cactus League.

Mark,

As I sit here and fight tears, a fight that I am losing I think about all the great times we have had this year. This was the first year of this team being together and yet made it to the playoffs for only the fourth time since 1945. Dont be down on yourself, you were this teams MVP. I am sad that I dont get to see you guys for 5 months.I am also sad because it feels like it just ended too soon, I just wasnt ready to end 2007. Have great and safe vacations with your familys. Cant wait to see you guys in Mesa.

David "GO CUBS GO"

Mark it wasn't only your fault every1 freaked up. I really expected you guys 2 win at least 1 game but instead we got swept and proved every naysayer right. We couldn't even win our game at home. Where were Lee's, Soriano's, and Ramirez's bats when we needed them, I'll tell you where missing in action when we needed them the most. And you guys don't understand how it feels for us die hard fans, eventually you guys will all end up in other teams versing the cubs but us, we'll never be or have ever been on the other end. Derrek Lee along with Ivan Rodriguez and Bartman helped take our chance at a world series away and now he's with us and eventually he’ll be with another team. My point is every year win or lose you guys will still get paid and as long as you have a good season you will all still have a job and might even end up on a winning team and forget about the cubs. But we fans never get what we bargain for. We don't get paid for being loyal fans so the only thing we have is winning a world series and we've been waiting for so long, I hope now Zambrano thinks twice before he criticizes us for booing. We've just been waiting for so long so we get frustrated easily and the only thing sadder than you guys not winning is knowing that come 2008 no matter how much I cried Saturday, how horrible we played, how many years it’s been, and how disappointed I was, I'll still be at Wrigley cheering you guys on believing again and it S**** but I can't help it. Oh and u did fine it was mostly our big guys who disappointed me at least.

Don't sweat it mark we're use to it, and even though we might get pushed around by other fans for having the longest world series drought we'll never stop being cubby fanatics because being a cubs fan means more than winning a world series (although that would be extremely awesome)it's a great feeling a love that can never die and no matter how many times this team loses we keep coming back for more because every year we truly do believe is the year, and maybe that is sad to some but that is just the way we cub fans are, our hope and love for the team never dies. As for the game, don't beat yourself up about it we had many chances to score in game 1, 2, & 3 not just that time. And everybody is right u cant blame a game on just one player unless that player pinch hit 4 every other player in the line up and pitched and catched. Sometimes things don’t go your way but we’ll get them next year in 08, like u I don’t believe in any curses, a huge thanks to you and the team for taking us to the playoffs again and making us acknowledge the fact again that we are still capable of getting there. We might have not won it all like the white sox but unlike them we’re loyal fans and when we do win it’ll be the best d^mn feeling and day in the world.

Thank you for the season, Mark. You're a great player and I had no idea you posted on a blog like this until now (thanks to my brother who follows this)...but just look forward to next year. You're the type of player who will make progress from an experience like you just had with this playoff run. Keep your head up, have a great off season, then come back strong like the Cubs we know. Bring us back to this point in 2008.

Oh come on mark it aint ur fault u did everything u could. beating urself up about it isn't fair to urself or us. we want the best for our cubbies and being angry at urself isnt the best. come on how many players had an opportunity where they could score? practically every one of them so dont beat urself up over a mistake every player in our team made too, its not fair. next years the year i can feel it!!!! Go Dero oh and

GO CUBS GO!!!!

Mark,

Can't wait to see you back on the field next year as a Cub. In my mind only three players truly showed that they wanted it, and that was you, Theriot and Zambrano. Ramirez (my favorite player) and Soriano made me absolutely sick to my stomach throughout this series with their lack of effort. At least you and a few of your other teammates showed some effort, and that's why I'm glad that you'll be a Cub next year.

This isn't your fault, you can't place the blame on yourself. Everyone on your team messed up in some way, shape or form. From Pinella taking Big Z out in game one to the 27 baserunners that were collectively left stranded throughout the series, to name a few. You did not strand all 27 baserunners, nor did you take our ace out when he had another inning left in him and was matching Brandon Webb (an NL Cy Young winner/candidate) pitch-for-pitch. I just believe that some of your teammates need to use this offseason learning how to play with heart and passion, because there was virtually none of that on the field throughout this series.

Mark, i have been a cubs fan for as long as i can remember, i was there in 03' and i was there for the 96 loss season last year. While all of those experinces were fun and sicking this easily has been my favorite thus far. This season was a roller coaster ride...and in all seriousness i think have an ulcer from this team, but i wouldn't have traded that feeling and the experince for the world. I was fortunate enough to be at opening day against the Houston Astros and i knew that this team was going to be fun to watch. and thanks to you, Lou, and the team fun can't even encompass the feeling of this year. Mark from the bottom of my heart thank you and the 2007 cubs for making this summer and baseball season exciting to be a part of. Even though i wasn't playing i felt i was in the trenches with you. Your a class act and one hullva baseball player enjoy the off-season with your family and let's get at it next season and bring home a world championship to Chicago!

Mr DeRosa,

Thanks for a great year. Players like you are a credit to baseball. Throughout the season, yourself and a handful of others (Theriot, Kendall and D'Lee) gave the Cubs the most professional at-bats. So don't be too harsh on yourself for swinging at one bad ball because some of our higher-price "stars" have swung at plenty of them!

Can I ask you to do us all a favor? Remind Lou Pinella that HE picks the team and HE decides the batting order. Someone needs to tell Soriano that "leadoff home run" also means "solo home run". The Cubs pay his wages, so he should bat wherever is best for the CUBS.

I hope you seriously consider doing a weekly blog next season, because I have really enjoyed your honest, insightful opinions.

I was upset tonight, and people were telling me it's "just a game" and it's not. Being Cubs fans is a part of our identity as citizens of this great city, and for those of us without fabulous lives, it's a source of hope and (sometimes) joy. It brightens our lives a bit and gives us something to look forward to. That being said, it was an immensely entertaining season, this team was such fun to watch. I'm bummed it's over but, Mark, don't beat yourself up! I watched nearly every game, and each one was a pleasure. Just knowing we had a chance was enough. And to many Cubs fans, making it to the postseason in the first place feels like the World Series!
Enjoy the off season and be ready to end our 99 year drought in 2008!

Warmly,

F

Mark,

Tonight's game, up until the end of the 5th, was the only game I got to watch. I left for work with tears in my eyes knowing it wouldn't happen. But oddly enough, as every Cub fan, it gave me hope for next year. There's always next year!

I've been a Cub fan since I was a little girl..some of the time not really keeping up with the games, just saying I was a Cub fan was enough for me for a few years. But this year I saw the passion of the team and it made me remember what it is to be a Cubs fan, and what it is to bleed Cubbie blue. You have been a wonderful addition to the team and hopefully you'll be around for a long time!

Thank you, and the rest of the guys, for a wonderful season and bringing hope back to all of us!

What a terrific season. I loved watching "My Cubs" play a great season. As tough as it was to watch a weaker division it was still exciting. To Mark: My favorite acquisition in the offseason, YOU SIR got it done in so many ways. Playing every position. One game I thought you might have to pitch. I applaud My Cubbies and will always be a fan. It is players like DeRosa, Lee, Ramirez, Soriano, Zambrano...And company..Its your passion for not only baseball, but for the city of Chicago. I was really disappointed in TBS coverage of this game in particular. It seemed everytime there was a play, an out, a hit, the cameras were always rolling in D-Backs dugout and players. Was this game NOT in Chicago? I thought Stockton and Darling were aweful...But to you ?? My Beloved Cubs? I will always be a fan and support this team and organization as long as it takes. Your passion is what makes us proud as fans. Oh, and by the way...Worst to First? Congratulations. I realize Baker did it in his first year also, but Sweet Lou controls the bullpen better and has been there. It will be Completely SWEET when we make it !! GO CUBS !!

Hey Don't worry about it mark to go from 66 and 96 to 85 - 77 in the year where everyone was almost a new face and to make it to the playoffs even with a team that’s almost brand new is an good start for sure. These comings for a 4th generation Cubs Fan were here like we always will be. Rain or Shine Lose or Win I will always been in the seats watching and cheering and when the day comes that we win a World Series trust me I’ll be trying to be the loudest fan. Not to sound Cliché of a Cubs Fan but There’s always Next Year Right?

"You almost want to apologize to the fans, because I think they expected more and we expected more, and that's the frustrating part."

Mark, love ya, but almost want to apologize?..I think there are some of your team mates that ought to apologize to the fans, and then donate a LARGE portion of their salaries to cubs care, or some other charitable organization!

Mark, you were a work horse on this team, playing any position Lou put you in, so I dont put the blame on you per se, but I am sorry, you guys early on in april and may were not playing as a team, it was all about individual egos. Somewhere during the summer things started clicking and it seemed like you guys were actually picking each other up when the going got tough. In the post season you all seemed to revert back to the spring team that couldnt get it together. I wish you well Mark, I know you are an important part of this team and will be for some time. I just hope that all the guys with over priced contracts and egos to go with the $$$$$ realize that there is no "I" in the word "Team" The diamondbacks and Rockies are proof of this. the phillies and cubs are proof that money cant buy you a playoff...It takes heart, determination, and a willingness to fight back when you are faced with an uphill battle. You possess alot of these qualities Mark, I hope that some of your team mates can emulate the way you have played this season!

I am mad, angry, frustrated, and depressed right now...Will I be back cheering you guys on next season? **** yeah, thats what us masochistic cubs fans do, we bleed cubbie blue, and most of the time its a painful thing to do!

To all the cubs players and management I say thankyou for a great season. Next year we will have two Marks on the team. MARK DE ROSA AND MARK PRIOR. THANKYOU CHICAGO CUBS

Mark,

It's human nature to reflect on that one at-bat, and I'm sure that no matter what anyone says, you'll continue to do so.

I have no idea if you'll see any of these, but if you do, there's a theme here that I hope you understand a lot of Cubs fans believe -- this team doesn't get to the postseason without Mark DeRosa.

Your versatility, big hits, and most importantly, attitude, made a huge difference. I have to admit I wondered about the signing when Theriot looked poised to be the second baseman . . . I don't wonder any more. I'm glad you're a Cub for at least two more years.

Mark,

One thing that is making this loss easier (well, less gut wrenchingly painful) is that its obvious there was no lack of effort involved. In the past, there seemed to be a lot of quit in the team, and that was not the case. And now that Lou knows what he has, maybe we'll be in a better position next year. So, the frustrated fans will forgive you guys, its just hard on us too.

Take care!!

Deroooo,

Don't worry, we still love you.

I'll keep it short and sweet, to one word actually.

Thanks.

I meant it. I needed that season :)

Ok all you cubs fans, will you stop with telling derosa everything will be allright. nothing will be allright as long as the CUBS DONT WIN A WOLRD SERIES. ITs been 100 years, how much longer can we wait people? Sure, Derosa was the MVP of the team, but he was the LVP in game 3 when it mattered the most. How can you swing at a 3-1 pitch when the pitcher has to throw you two more pitches to get you out!! Derosa should have taken a pitch. that would have changed the whole game. that was the problem with the cubs this whole series: THEY WERE IMPATIENT HITTERS. They were swinging at the worst pitches thrown. I'm tired of waiting till next year. the reason we haven't won is simple: bad managers, bad trades, bad GM's(HENDRY), and bad signings. first of all, even though i was escatic that we got Soriano, we wanted someone else first. that was Carlos Lee who is awesome in post season in clutch. im tired of waiting to next year. thanks derosa and all you impatient cubs hitters for a waste of a seanon.

Thank you...thank you...thank you! Although I feel that you were probably the MVP of this series, I love that you don't feel that way. I have always said that when a man gets paid a ton of money to play a game, then he ought to play that game well and feel awful when he doesn't. Take a few days and beat yourself up...a little humility wouldn't hurt most professional athletes. Then, keep yourself in great shape in the off-season and come back ready to start all over. We'll be here in our Cubby blue with our "This is the year" signs, ready to cheer you guys on to a great season. See ya at Cubs Convention!

Nemodirect: YOU are out of line. Obviously, you are a disgrunted Yankees fan. Go back to harrassing them and leave us alone.

Mark: First and foremost, THANK YOU. Thank you to the entire team. The real true blue Cubs fans are fine that you didn't win the NLDS. Seriously, that is okay. Real Cubs fans love the Cubs no matter what. Yes, we would have liked for it to have had a different outcome, but that doesn't change the fact that you, individually and as a team, gave us one **** of summer. I am proud to call myself a Cubs fan. We love you and the team and are THRILLED with the season. The End.

Keep the magic and we will see you in February. Be safe.

Mark, I am sure that you realize that the Cubs fans are just as frustrated...maybe more so...since a lot of us have been around for a very long time. I sadly took down my flag last night and look forward to the ribbing that I will get at work on Tuesday in this college football-obsessed town. (as I hollered at them that baseball was more important!)I am sad, but, it is useless to blame single players; everyone seemed star struck like they were in amazement that they were in the playoffs. Pretty much everyone except for Kerry Wood in the second game acted like they were deer-in headlights...no biggie, I guess...still love all of you guys...and maybe we can do it next year. If I still lived there, I would still have season tickets, as it is I try to get to at least one game a season in Wrigley. That won't change. This is disappointing, but, not the end of my devotion to the club. I'll stll hang my flag out when you guys play your first game at Wrigley next year. GO CUBS!!

Mark, don't you dare take the blame for this. If the rest of the team played with the heart you have, we'd still be in the chase for the ring. You have been the MVP for the Cubs this season. Day in and out you went out on the field and played the game the it's suppose to be played. I've been a Cub Fan my whole and have many favorites like Dawson, Sandberg, Grace, and Santo. Now I add DeRosa to my list. You are what baseball is all about. See you at the convention and spring training.

To the entire Cubs. Thank you for a wonderful season.
We did not get the out come that we all wanted. From last to first in one season. I am already looking forwad to next season. Mark don't be so hard on yourself. It takes a team to win and a team to loose. Have a great off season!

Like most fans, I was very disappointed with what went on in the Postseason. Like Mark has said, we have the talent to get this done. I think the Cubs management has done a great job in putting together the current roster. Lou has done a great job this year and it was his first year. To go from last to 1st with basically a brand new team is an incredible feat. I hate to say this, but it will happen next year. Good luck in the off season and see you in the spring.

I also am a fan of 45 years and a season ticket holder. I like you Mark ..you are a classy and gritty ballplayer, but I am angry as heck at your squad of goofballs.

I was sickened by the disgusting display of non-chalance and apathy by this organization for the entire last 2 weeks of the season and ending in Phoenix.

Lou Piniella in my opinion is vastly overrated and made some colossal mental blunders as in game 1 by not going after the WIN with his ace, who gets paid 90 plus million to be just where Zambrano was..."on the mound " in a tight meaningful playoff in Game 1 of the Championship Division series.

I also blame Piniella for leaving an obviously unsettled and unstable Ted Lilly to pitch to Chris Young with 1st base open and a lefty on deck. This is not smart baseball logic, this is pre-alzheimers.

The worst part of this season is that this smug and nonchalant Cubs organization left the fans with absolutely no dignity, no respect, and yet tip your hats to us while bowing out of the series like a bunch of Anne of Green Gables sissies.

There, I said it...and I meant evry word of it..

Thanks for nothing...Cub fans loyalty to losers like this years team is entirely unwarranted. Sell the whole ******* team and send Piniella to have his memory checked.

What an embarrasment this team was...and Pinellas post game nonchalance was sickening beyond belief.

I wish you all had lost not only the final regular season series to the last place Marlins, but that you had dropped all 3 of the Cincinnatti games, at least then the Midwest could have seen and been represented by a young and hungry Brewers team who were 100 times better instead of this team of post season clowns who embarass and humiliate their fan base.

I am not looking forward to next season, I paid a lot to watch this sickening display, and unless there is a fire-sale of the entire sqaud, there is no hope.

I'm glad to hear you'll be replaying that pitch in your head, because we will too. When it replays, I'm sure you'll remember that it was a 3-1 offering, and that it was low in the zone, if it was in the zone at all. Mr. DeRosa, you had a fine season and provided some great moments and clutch hits. Unfortunately, this AB will be what you are remembered for in the long Cubs history of abject failure. Welcome to the team. See you in the Spring.

Hey Mark,
No matter what has happened, you are still a AWESOME, AWESOME baseball player and I'm glad you are on our CUBS team.I Loved reading your blogs and hope you will continue to do that next year.Have a good time off and will enjoy seeing you play in the spring :)

A very frustrating and disappointing ending to an otherwise great season. To me it all came down to the bats of Soriano, Lee and Ramirez. After a sizzling hot September, their bats went ice-cold.

I can only imagine how intense it must be to be in that kind of situation. I've been in various sport tournaments before, and the pressure and adrenalin makes you go almost physically numb. However, you guys are professinals, in name, if not in actions. I just would like to know one thing. Did you even once consider taking that 3-1 pitch all the way??? Because if you didn't, then that was unprofessional and could even be considered selfish. Here you have a pitcher who is struggling with his control, walking three batters in the inning, bases are loaded, and you have a 3-1 count. Why, oh why, did you not take that pitch. Even if it would have been called a strike, you had one more strike to hit into a double play if you liked. You had nothing to lose by taking that pitch, but for that inning by swinging you lost any momentum that you guys even had to begin with. After that point, you guys were defeated. To me, that was not why you lost the series, but it could have meant the difference in winning that game. The TEAM lost the series because Arizona was loose and confident. You guys keep telling the press you are confident, but you seemed too tight and too "scared to lose" to be confident IMO. Sorry for venting on you, but this is the only outlet I've found where I can actually get a Cubs player to read this. You may not believe this, but you are one of my favorite Cubs!

Hi Mark,
I can't say I wasn't disappointed about what happened last night, but I know you guys tried your hardest and I'm grateful for that. I've been here for 21 years (my whole life) for you guys and I'm never going to stop believing in you. I don't believe in the stupid curses because honestly, they're just excuses. When we win again there will be no excuses and we'll be the happiest team alive. Until then, I'll be supporting you guys. :) I think 2008 is going to be a great year and hopefully we'll make it here again. But next time, hopefully we'll win it all! Have a good rest and continue to train well in the off-season. See you at spring training! Go Cubs! :)

--Shanna--

Mark,
Don't be to hard on yourself. it was fun this year. You guys gave us Cub fans a lot of excitment this year. And just remember it not the end of the world. Us die hard Cubs fans will be there again next year!! We love you Cubbies!!!

There's always next year... I've come to realize that is our slogan.

Anybody can make comments about what happened, how it happened and what could have been done to prevent it. As die hard Cubs fans, we can all spit out the criticism because we feel we have the right; these guys don't get paid millions of dollars to go 0-11 in the playoffs, to hit into a double play with the bases loaded, to give up 8 runs in a game - the fact is that it happened, and if any of us had the power to change it we would be playing for the Cubs. We came back from being the worst team in baseball to winning our division in one year. That is thanks to our new manager, our new players, and the guys that are here from last season. People are allowed to go through slumps - it's a shame it had to happen in the post season, but none of us can say that we've never had a bad day at work when we needed to have a good one. Anyone of us have had days, weeks straight that we needed to be on the ball and we weren't. We were fortunate throughout the season that when our big guns weren't able to step up to the plate, our smaller guys came through and got it done. When Ramy and Lee were going through tough times towards the end of the season, JJ - a guy that we wanted to trade because he wasn't getting it done - came through and won a lot of games for us. I think the hardest thing is the D-Backs slogan, anyone at anytime, WAS the Cubs slogan throughout the year - and when it came down to crunch time, it didn't happen for us. I said all along when we made it to October, this is not our World Series team. I'm as much of a Cubs fan as anyone, but you can't come back from a 66 win season and win it all the next year. I am just so proud that we made it to the playoffs.

Everyone expected so much more because of all the money we spent on salaries for the new guys this year. We're in reconstruction mode - we're in the process of building a dynasty, and it's not going to happen in 1 year. I'm just sad we have to wait another 5 months for it to all start again!

I think the fact that we threw a bunch of guys together on a roster that have never played together before, and we made it as far as we did is such a huge accomplishment. We need to learn how to work together, to memorize eachother's playing tactics and become a stronger team - practice makes perfect, time heals all wounds, and we're just going to get better. The days of 4 playoff appearances in 20 years is over. The more time that passes, the sweeter it will be when we do win it all. And it's not going to take us another 100 years, I guarantee that.

Wonderful season, Mark, you and the rest of the players should be so proud of all that you accomplished. I know it's bittersweet, for you and the fans both, but I think any season that isn't taking it all the way is going to feel the same. You critique, you realize the good things you did and the bad things you did, and you move on. You become better and stronger and now you know what you have to work on and what to do for next year.

Mark...that 5th inning AB was about as tough as any I could imagine and you'll feel badly for a few days and then realize it's was a TEAM loss.
Thanks to you and all the Cubbies, we fans love you all win or lose..THAT'S WHAT MAKES A CUB FAN!!!!!!!!

We stick around through it all..great season, great ride. Too bad no-one seemed to be hitting against AZ, esp Aramis..what happened to him??

Oh well..move on..

Thanks for your blog..

Eden

Mark,
You are responsible for getting us this far in the first place. I've said it countless times throughout the season that the one player we couldn't afford to lose was you. Credit Marmol for his fantastic relief appearances during the season, but I give our MVP to you.

Thanks for the awesome season. While it was hard to watch the playoffs unfold the way it did, I am just extremely proud you guys made the playoffs when you compare last season to this one. But hey, don't feel bad, you guys did great and you gave us fans a wonderful season.
I watched every game this season out here in Los Angeles on TV. It was money well spent. I envy any fan that can go to Wrigley whenever they want. I can't wait to retire from the Navy so I can move to Chicago and be a retired bleacher bum.

Go CUBBIES!!!

Mark,

You have been one of the most consistent performers all year, and you were one of the few whose bat showed up at all during this abbreviated post-season. So you screwed up one at-bat in one game. The TEAM doesn't make it on one guy alone; we needed everyone to show up and that was not the case from game one. Some of the haters posting here need to realize that too. Listening to your interview hurt; you can not take responsibility for the entire team. They've all got to be "men", as you put it, too. You always hustled out there and that means a lot to dedicated Cubs fans. Last year we were the worst. This year was a great improvement. Until we win the WS of course it's going to seem like peanuts, but look how far we came! Think positive, work hard, come back next year. Go chill with the fam and relax. See you at the convention and spring training. KEEP YOUR CHIN UP.

Mark and the Cubs,
Thanks for a great season. It has been an exciting one and I have loved watching all the way through the last minute of the last game. There is no curse, no choke, no Bartman to blame this series on and I think that's a good thing. You did your best, I know that, and things just didn't come together for us. This was a great year. With so many new players, I'm excited to see where next year takes us. So keep your head up, you played some great baseball this year. Enjoy your time off with your family and Spring Training will be here before you know it. I know that I will be back at Wrigley cheering you on for another great season.

I was at yesteday's game, and to say I'm dissapointed would be an understatment. But to blame anyone would be wrong (and frankly childish).

I turned to my friend during your fifth inning at bat and said that those few moments were the most fun I'd had as a fan in a long time. Just being part of such an electric collective made me glad to be a Cubs fan.

Thank you for all your hard work this past season. They really couldn't have done it without you.

Mark, The Cubs don't get to the post season without you. You played hard every day, hustled on every play. Not all Cubs can say that. It was one at bat. It was crucial, but one at bat in a season where you played much better ball than I expected. I was in Wrigley for this last game and honestly I expected better, but you know it is a game and despite the fact that Soriano and Ramirez didn't do much to justify their salaries, this must be put in perspective. When the All-star game was on the south side you were at the fan fest and you did soft toss with my son. It meant a lot to him when a major leaguer told him he had a good swing. That's important! My son passed on September 2 at 7:45 a.m. of complications from cancer. He was 16 and at 16 he was twice the man I'll ever be. I'm a die hard Cub fan. Baseball is the ONLY sport I follow and I am a fanatic. I want the Cubs in the world series on the North side so bad it hurts. But this is a game. A great one, but a game nonetheless. We're all disappointed but keep it in perspective. Save your energy. Make a donation to the make a wish foundation. (No I don't work for them, I'm a garbageman) It'll make you feel better.

Mark DeRosa...many fans have said "Thank you for a great season." I echo those words. The season does not hinge on one at-bat...if you think YOU were disppointed (LOL)! We did exactly what I thought we would do this year...we won a pathetic division, and then failed right up front in the postseason. Management loaded up with offense, and didn't have enough pitching to play with the big dogs. You have to have consistent pitching to have winning streaks, and we just didn't have it. When we got raped by the Marlins in the last week of the season, that was the voice of doom. It's a grand old saying in baseball that good pitching stops good hitting, and we didn't have enough of either (especially pitching). Hey, ever tried pitching? You play all-star baseball at every other position! Have a good winter, and put it behind you...the fans'll carry it for you, don't worry. Best of luck, and thanks again!

Art White

Mark,
You are a true man. I loved watching you this season, and I can't wait to watch you next season. Every time you came up to bat in the series I knew you were putting your whole heart into each swing of the bat. All cubbie fans are dying to see the team finallyw win the world series. My grandma is 87 and after the game she called and said, They'll do it next year! I truly believe that this will be the case!Mark we all love ya!!

Mark,
I see everyone telling you that you did a good job. I also think you did good. But you also did bad. My comments arn't just for you, but the entire team, including our great new coach. What the world were you guys doing this October! You went all year (until September, at least) playing small ball. Getting the runner on, getting the runner over, getting them in. You didn't have to rely on the long ball. What happened in September? You hit alot of homeruns and decided that this one month decided how you would play in the post season. That was wrong. When you get to the post season, you need to play the way that got you there in the first place. While I watched on TNT, I simulcasted with WGN and heard Ronnie talk about nothing but how we need to hit a home run right here in this situation. That again is not right. Hit the runner over. It's not rocket science. I know he walks through the clubhouse every day and he speaks about what he hears in there.

People talk about blaming anyone would be wrong. I don't necessarily believe that. The blame always have to come down to someone. I personally blame all the cubs batters to tried too hard with runners in scoring position. Which, if I remember right, was just about all of you.

I am a die hard cub fan. Wait until next year, etc.... I heard it all. All I know is that next year will be 100 years. I can already see all the headlines....

Here's to "There's always next year"

Mark-

To the point- just keep playin' the game! See you on the field next season. GO CUBS!!!

This year was fun and I've experienced quite a few really really bad seasons. I love the Cubs but I really never thought they would get through the first playoff round--but there's always that "anything can happen" thing.You did a great job & the Cubs never would have gotten as far as they did without you on the team.Love your heart and effort on the field. We have the best manager in baseball.We were not outmanaged, we were out-played.I see this team getting better & for the 1st time in my 48 yrs. as a fan I truly feel next year will be awesome!

I was saying to my wife when you got up during that 5th inning at-bat, that it was the pivotal turning point in the game and we were, "hoping", you could come through in the clutch. Yes the pitch was low on the 3-2 count, but back when I played ball, that pitch was one of my favorites to go after. I cried out what were you doing swinging at that pitch because it would have walked in a run, but I know and you know that it was a pitch you could have drove up the middle or roped down the line. Kudos to you on a great season Mark.

We can sit here and destroy the memories of the '07 season and say that is was a dud, just like the so-called experts think. It was and it wasn't. The reality is that we have to look forward to next season already and move on. I'm lovin the team we have, but it's going to take the front office to get a couple of more pieces to the puzzle. The puzzle isn't finished.

I feel it deep down that the team is almost complete. We need another quality starter, veteran relievers, an outfielders, and a catcher. I love Marmol, Wood, and Dempster in the pen. The other guys make my stomach unsettled. There are better starters out there than Steve Trachsel...come on!

Yeah Andruw Jones may not be a leadoff hitter, but he is one of the elite in center and has a good bat. This year was a dud for him. I'm not saying they should grab him, but it's a consideration since his value probably has gone down and he may need a fresh start. Soto and Kendall are not the answer at catcher. For years now, I've been longing for them to grab a catcher with pop and great mobility behind the plate. When will they do that?

I'm excited about having Theriot and DeRosa down the middle. Theriot is my favorite player because he plays hard and will do what he can to get on for the big guys. Put him at leadoff!

I went to the August 4th game against the Mets at Wrigley, which you guys one by the way. It was only my 3rd game there. It's hard for me to make it there since I live in Florida, but being at Wrigley that day was the best. I will leave it at this...I don't care how much World Series tickets will be next year when you guys are in it, but I will be there to witness the Cubs Faithful rocking Wrigley Field.

Mark! Dont be too hard on yourself I was at the game and watched it happen. As a die hard cubs fan yeah were dissapointed but knowing that you guys are going to come back and try just as hard next year makes it all worth while! The Crowd was deafening when this happended! And we still love you guys! Win or Lose We love the Cubbies!! After the game at the players lot the fans out there were just as excited to see you guys! Were proud of what you did this year and cant wait to see how next year unfolds! Go CUBS Go!!!!

Last year at this time I was on my secound tour of Iraq and the Cubs were in last place. Now that I am home I plan to make the trip from Alabama to Chicago and catch a few games. I just wanted to thank all of the Cubs for a great season. God Bless and Go Cubs Go!