A sitdown with Ryan Theriot, and vice versa
DEROSA: First off, I want to reiterate that the reason to call this "The Pulse" is because my teammates gave me that nickname when my heart almost stopped on the field at Fitch Park. Ryan Theriot decided to give me mouth to mouth and that's why I came to -- I decided I wasn't near death.
We're going to interview Ryan Theriot this week. Ryan, how ya doing?
THERIOT: I'm doing good.
DEROSA: First off, did you ever think when you signed out of LSU you that you'd eventually be the starting shortstop for the Chicago Cubs?
THERIOT: Yes, I did. Confidence is something I never lacked.
DEROSA: Remember, they're not going to know you're being funny.
THERIOT: You've got to have it -- you've got to have confidence. There were times when you doubt it. I was pegged as a utility player, and was unfairly pegged as a utility player. I always had the confidence that I'd get a chance.
DEROSA: How did it feel when you're sitting in Baton Rouge and it came across the ticker that Mark DeRosa had just signed to play second base with the Chicago Cubs.
THERIOT: In all honestly, when I saw it, I really felt like punching you right in the mouth and or breaking your leg. It was kind of a shock. It was a little upsetting in the beginning. But after Jim [Hendry] called me, and we talked a little bit about it, I felt better about the whole situation.
DEROSA: And when I showed up at Fitch Park, what were your impressions about me?
THERIOT: I didn't know if we were getting a second baseman or an Ultimate Fighter. Your physique was comparable to that of a Greek god.
DEROSA: Or Bob Howry.
THERIOT: Or Bob Howry.
DEROSA: So, I was intimidating at first?
THERIOT: You were intimidating at first, yeah. Once I got to know you, I understood your skit.
DEROSA: You basically figured out I was soft.
THERIOT: Yeah, in so many words.
DEROSA: Well, we're in Pittsburgh, getting ready to take on the Pirates in a three-game set. We haven't started this road trip too good. We still have a lot of confidence putting on the Cubby uniform and playing pretty good ball. Ryan, what did you do on your off day?
THERIOT: I went fishing with a few of my teammates. The only thing I caught was a cold, as you can tell by my sniffles going on. OK, I'm going to take over this blog. This is Ryan asking questions of Mark. Mark, when you're done playing baseball in 20 years, the opportunity to get in the booth and get behind the microphone and be on TV with myself -- it's going to be a lot of fun. I was going over some nicknames the other day -- I thought "Thunder and Lightning" would be good for our show. What are your thoughts on that, and who should be "Thunder" and who should be "Lightning?"
DEROSA: Since I have three stolen bases and zero caught stealing, I think I'll be the "Lightning."
THERIOT: Yeah, but I have seven caught-stealings at this point, so maybe you should re-think that. On that same note, if anybody saw my batting practice at Houston they'd know I could be "Thunder."
We're going to interview Ryan Theriot this week. Ryan, how ya doing?
THERIOT: I'm doing good.
DEROSA: First off, did you ever think when you signed out of LSU you that you'd eventually be the starting shortstop for the Chicago Cubs?
THERIOT: Yes, I did. Confidence is something I never lacked.
DEROSA: Remember, they're not going to know you're being funny.
THERIOT: You've got to have it -- you've got to have confidence. There were times when you doubt it. I was pegged as a utility player, and was unfairly pegged as a utility player. I always had the confidence that I'd get a chance.
DEROSA: How did it feel when you're sitting in Baton Rouge and it came across the ticker that Mark DeRosa had just signed to play second base with the Chicago Cubs.
THERIOT: In all honestly, when I saw it, I really felt like punching you right in the mouth and or breaking your leg. It was kind of a shock. It was a little upsetting in the beginning. But after Jim [Hendry] called me, and we talked a little bit about it, I felt better about the whole situation.
DEROSA: And when I showed up at Fitch Park, what were your impressions about me?
THERIOT: I didn't know if we were getting a second baseman or an Ultimate Fighter. Your physique was comparable to that of a Greek god.
DEROSA: Or Bob Howry.
THERIOT: Or Bob Howry.
DEROSA: So, I was intimidating at first?
THERIOT: You were intimidating at first, yeah. Once I got to know you, I understood your skit.
DEROSA: You basically figured out I was soft.
THERIOT: Yeah, in so many words.
DEROSA: Well, we're in Pittsburgh, getting ready to take on the Pirates in a three-game set. We haven't started this road trip too good. We still have a lot of confidence putting on the Cubby uniform and playing pretty good ball. Ryan, what did you do on your off day?
THERIOT: I went fishing with a few of my teammates. The only thing I caught was a cold, as you can tell by my sniffles going on. OK, I'm going to take over this blog. This is Ryan asking questions of Mark. Mark, when you're done playing baseball in 20 years, the opportunity to get in the booth and get behind the microphone and be on TV with myself -- it's going to be a lot of fun. I was going over some nicknames the other day -- I thought "Thunder and Lightning" would be good for our show. What are your thoughts on that, and who should be "Thunder" and who should be "Lightning?"
DEROSA: Since I have three stolen bases and zero caught stealing, I think I'll be the "Lightning."
THERIOT: Yeah, but I have seven caught-stealings at this point, so maybe you should re-think that. On that same note, if anybody saw my batting practice at Houston they'd know I could be "Thunder."
I adore this post. Very nicely done! There were lots of laughs all around. And I love the Bob Howry as Adonis plug. Too funny! Best of luck this weekend against the Pirates!
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I highly recommend more "interviews" like this - ROFL!
And please - - someone go tell the Pirates not to wear those orange day-glo unis. They hurt my eyeballs and make everything else look orange.
Thanks to you both for the signings at Sports Authority last weekend! (Although I did get strange, worried looks from people while I was carrying around a baseball bat all day in Chicago.)
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Please, please do anything you can to get rid of Edmonds.
Your best friend,
Eric
917 536 2429 c
212 852 3764 w
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Mark,
Thanks for keeping up the blog these season; your posts are always fun to read, especially this one! I really enjoy watching you play, you're such an asset to the team. Keep up the good work and best of luck this season!
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interview derek lee and all the other cubbies, go cubs go
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This is absolutely wonderful!! You and Theriot are my favorites and this interview shows how well the 2 of you get along. I hope you do more "interviews" like this. And while I do think Bob Howry is very nice looking, I do like to look are you more. Great game tonight with the 3 RBIs. Keep up the great work and please keep up this blog. It really is terrific.
Rebel
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you guys are effin hilarious! you two should already have your own show!!
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You two are too funny. Keep this kind of stuff coming. You and Ryan are my two favorite players on the Cubs.
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Great interview. How about this for your next one. Pick the guy you talk to least on the team and interview them.
Also, more info about what you guys do off the field is fun. Since it's mainly the most die-hard fans who follow blogs then "insider" stuff would be perfect.
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You guys are fun. You will be sitting at a table at the Cubs Convention in forty years still arguing about who was thunder and lightning during 08, the best year of the century!
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Haha-You guys are great!! I smiled the whole time while reading this! "Thunder and Lightning" is just a success waiting to happen! haha I can't wait for it! GOOD LUCK the rest of the series! Love you guys!! GO CUBS GO!!!
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Mark and Ryan-
What a great post! I have such a fun time watching you players interact on the field but this was fun to see how you interact off the field. Great game tonight, I hope to see many more like them this season. Especially with everyone hitting!
Keep up the great work! It's gonna happen.
CUBS FOREVER
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Uh-oh, I think Mark's got competition in the blogosphere. Tell the Riot - ahem, Thunder, to get typing!
Thanks for the fun post...and the three ribbies today!
Jen
http://cubblogging.blogspot.com/
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good post......now to answer the question of the day, wherever did you go fishing? couldn't have been anywhere around Pittsburgh?
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HA! That was hilarious. Keep it up you two, keep it up.
It's the one-two punch! Riot and DeRo!
More interviews like that would be fantastic.
See you tomorrow!
Haha, on TV of course.
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This was awesome! Made me laugh after a crazy day at work. You should definitely do more of these.
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Love the blog!
HeHeHe......Bob Howry.....
You two may be thunder and lightening but I see a lot of heart and soul in these games. GO CUBS GO!
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Cool interview! I'm glad you picked Ryan Theriot to be your 1st interview victim! LOL! He's a great player and really gives it his all. You and Ryan have the best chemistry on the field. Yeah do more interviews.. great game last night!
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That was a pretty cool interview, Mr Derosa!
And thank you Mr. Theriot for doing it!
Cubbyfanjohn
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I enjoyed this. :-) You guys are my favored players. Kindly remind your wives how lucky they are.
What about Reed Johnson? Probably since I only follow the Cubs he seems to have come out of nowhere. I was a bit disappointed that he blatantly ignores the fans in the bleachers (although some of them encourage that approach). At least Soriano smiles and waves.
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You guys are awesome! Keep up the great work. Looking forward to watching another Cubs win tonight.
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three things:
1) great game last night!!!!
2) seriously...i just laughed out loud through this entire blog!
3) can we be friends? haha
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This was great. I could totally see you guys behind the booth calling games, and would love it. I just hope you guys do it for the Cubs. You know we attach you guys to the Cubs team, and if you all ever left, you'd still be a Cub to us, but how does that affect you guys. I mean Mark, you were a Brave for 6 years (including during their sweep of the Cubbies in the 98 postseason) and a Ranger after that. But, damn, we want you to be a Cub forever, even after retirement. Do players, get attached to certain teams? Or at least after they retire? Were the fans in Atlanta and Texas as big as in Chi-town. Just curious.
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That's the second time I've heard you refer to Howry as Adonis... the first being at the Convention when you told me you'd trade bodies with him and that you have a man-crush! According to Ryan, he's got some competition! What does Bob think about all of this??? Maybe you and Ryan can team up and interview him next?! The two of you are hilarious... you and Ryan should do some webcasts like Len and Bob- start "Thunder and Lightning" now! If you're looking for a fan to interview, sign me up!
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Hey Guys!
You guys are the BEST! It's fun to see everyone smiling and look like their having so much fun this season, that's what good teams are made of.
I'm curious to know how hard it must be to communicate with Kusuke? Is he picking up his English? Are you guys picking up Japanese? I know you guys were handed a sheet of Japanese baseball terms to learn at the beginning of the year, seems to be working because you guys are on FIRE!!! Can't wait for you guys to come back to the Friendly Confines on Monday. Chicago loves what your doing this year. WE BELIEVE!
One last note: I am a college student who sells some of the gimmick shirts you find around the ballpark; such as "Fukudome is my Homie"... & "You Can't Quiet... The RIOT!" I ran into Ronny Cendeno after the game last week and asked him if he could give Fukudome & Theriot a shirt, Just curious to know if you guys got em? If not, check them out on my website crosstowntees.com and email me your size, I will be happy to get you guys a shirt.
Thanks guys, KEEP ON ROLLING!
-Dimitri
d_mitalas@yahoo.com
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Loved the interview. I'm a huge fan of your's and Ryan's. Last year I brought a sign to the game that read Mark Derosa to do list. It said pitch, catch, center field, broadcast game on WGN. My phone blew up when they showed the sign and len and bob talked about it for a couple of minutes. Went down to marlins series at end of season. That sucked. Tailgating was fun though. I started the season by saying our success this year would be determined by the younger players. Soto, theriot, fontenot,marmol,hill etc. What do you think the weaknesses still are if any?
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Hey Mark!
First off, great game last night! Gotta love those blow outs! Just wanted to say I'm real happy with the season and all the guys so far this year! I'll be attending my first game of the season on Monday and am really hoping it isn't going to rain. Also, I'm really excited you have started up the blog again, I love reading it. This entry in particular really made me laugh. I read it outloud to my mother and she was absolutely rolling, you guys are funny! Keep up the good work this year and bring it home to the north side for all us Cub fans!!
PS~ Good luck tonight! I'm watching you right now!
Best wishes,
Paige
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You guys are way too cool!!!
I hope you read the comments and answer some of the questions that fans have asked.
GO CUBS GO!!!
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HAHAHA I love it!! Keep posts like this coming! :D
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mark. your nickname is ponderosa. like the steaks. woo!
the nickname "thunder" is matt murton's. I think this may be official, as it says so on wikipedia. As we all know... wikipedia= official.
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ha well done. I loved this blog and Ryan Theriot. Now we just need a little Mike Fontenot action.
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I love this post Mark and Ryan. I agree with Natasha, we need some Mike Fontenot. I would love to know what he has to say! In fact Mark, you are batting at this very moment and I am watching you on TV, GO MARK!
My cell number is 815-871-5811 just in case you want to give it to Mike :)
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Loved the interview format. First time to comment on one of your blogs. If you ever have the chance to come back here to the fabulous heat and humidity of Texas, many of us would love to have you back.
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Best post so far. Keep em coming.
Go Cubs Go!
Nicole
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I thought Dempster was the only goofy guy on the team. Funny stuff. It's good to see chemistry in the clubhouse like that.
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Mark,
Thanks for the blog. This entry made me laugh out loud. I love that you guys get goofy. You can see how much the team cares for each other just by watching you on the field. Sorry the team had such a rough road trip. Everybody has bad days at work. No one will remember the losses when you're showing off your World Series Ring! Looking forward to seeing you back at Wrigley today. We're ready to start another hot streak!
Go CUBBIES!
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That was a pretty sweet blog, definitely should have more interviews on here. I really like watching things where the players are messing around in the dug-out or something and this is just as cool.
Went to a game this year. It was my 1st of several for 08. And of course it was on May 17 and we lost to the Pirates. but still a fun game. I wore my Theriot shirt that day and after the game i bought a shirt of my favorite player and thatd be Mark DeRosa.
I wear #7 in summer ball cause of you since your my favorite Cub.
I know niether of you played with him but playing against Sammy Sosa, how was he? Like not as a player but as a person. Sosa is my all-time favorite player and everyone turned against him, except me, when he "walked out" on the Cubs. People say he plays for himself and not the team and both of you played against him last year when he hit 600 and just wondering what he was like on and off the field.
carboymqt@yahoo.com - Id love a reply
Thanks
Mark T
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Not only do we have a great 6-4 combination, but a great comedy team too! I really enjoyed your banter with Theriot.
Always believing in Cubby blue!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
:)
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LOL!!! This gave me a really good laugh. My girl and her sisters
were fans of yours back with the Braves and seem to have a schoolgirl crush on Ryan. They enjoyed it as well. I love reading your blogs.
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Dear Mark - Thx so much for the blog! My wife and two daughters (ages 10 and 7) drove nearly 6 hours to see the Cubs play the Pirates on Saturday and Sunday this past Memorial Day weekend (we all grew up in Chicago, but moved to the East Coast in 2001). The timing of your interview with Theriot could not be better…
My oldest daughter is a HUGE fan of Theriot, and before the start of Sunday’s game we were all hanging out behind the Cubs’ dugout hoping to have Theriot sign a baseball for each of the girls. After waiting 45 minutes, sure enough Theriot emerged from the bullpen and my wife got his attention. But she had a real tough time trying to throw the balls to him over the fence (I was busy taking photos…) and it was quite funny when he instructed her to put the cap back on the pen before throwing it to him.
If Theriot remembers the incident, PLEASE extend my personal thanks to him for taking the time to sign the baseballs – my daughters were absolutely thrilled. It’s situations like that that will create a lasting impression on kids, and he was very patient during the whole process.
As Cubs fanatics, we went back home (Chicago) to watch game three of the playoffs last year. We also attended the cold and rainy opening day this year in Chicago and have made it our goal to see the Cubs play at various games near our home in Pennsylvania throughout the rest of the 2008 season. Thus far, we have been to Pittsburgh (twice), Philadelphia, and Washington games already this season. Unfortunately, these were all games where the Cubs were not victorious, so our friends and family have started a petition requesting that we not attend any more games! They say we’re worse luck then the curse of the goat!
Congratulations on a great start to 2008 and sincere wishes for continued success!
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Do more of these !!!
Funny stuff ;o
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Great interview guys! I love it and would love to see this be a regular event. My buddy and I are such big fans of Theriot that we have a blog dedicated to him. If Ryan is reading this, come check us out and leave us a message.
http://www.turning-two.com
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Mark - great interview with The Riot. I hope you get more opportunities to blog throughout the season. You're a really good TV interview (you always have insightful things to say), and a decent writer. Nice job! You're my favorite Cubbie - keep up the great work on and off the field. - John
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Mark great interview.. I am such a big fan of your and well the whole team as well. It was very hurtful to go see the Houston games and hearing crap from my friends..but "we're still in first place." I like the lightning nickname I think it fits perfect.
C-Ya
Ms. Chris
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That was great, you two are so funny! You and Theriot are my favorite players!!! and the hottest ;) Good luck at the game tonight!!
GO CUBBIES!!! - Lauren
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Mark,
I loved reading your latest post! Keep up the great work on your blog & on the field. Good luck this year, we're all cheering for you!
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Hey Mark !
A couple of things...
I think ole' Theriot and Fonty need to make a black n white poster of them in the swamps in louisianna holding bats and call it "Bayou Bros." They could be in uniform and everything...it would sell like hotcakes....Also Micah Hoffpauer totally reminds me of a young edmonds...maybe Jim should start working with him in the outfield...he could finally get some playtime in center, and teachings from a wise veteran...spread the idea round the bench...One last thing...My girlfriend thinks your the hottest thing since sliced bread.....so now we are competing for her love...lol Go cubbies...
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wow, I have to say that you two are my absolute favorite cubbies ! i think you are both gorgeous, and from this blog, y'all seem hilarious! anyway, i watch you guys play every game, and im looking forward to flying out to chicago to see you play at wrigley soon. anyway, keep up the good work guys; i can see a world series coming up !
-brooklyn.
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I was excited to see that you interviewed Theriot! I'm a big fan of both of you and enjoy watching the Cubs play when our stations pick up the games. Living in Utah I don't get to see many games due to the lack of a professional team. Hoping to come see you guys play again this year while I'm in Chicago and keep up the faith. The Cubs are by far the best Major League Baseball Team!!
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Mark, I hope you guys can go all the way this year. In 1969, I took a pounding for years, from the guys and family for cheering for the Cubs. Their are a lot of Mets fans in the family and New Jersey. Go Cubs. Ask Patrick about how I use to get pounded, he had to remind me at the family reunion last year. Also I made a video calling you the Goat Buster when you signed with the Cubs, not sure if you ever saw it, I mailed it to my brother George last year to send to your dad. Gary
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Mark, My friend recently went to Pittsburgh to support you guys. Turns out he coincidentally was staying in the same hotel as you. Said he bumped into you on accident and didnt realize it was you. I told him he should have picked a mini-scuffle of words with you. just to give you something to remember. and then say just kidding afterwards. its not too often we have encounters with pro sports players or celebs, I think if I were to have a run-in I might try and make you remember me. he also so Bobby Howry gettin some McDonalds across the street. I might have trouble pickin a fake fight with that man walkin around. Stay cool Mark and go beat up on them dodgers. - AJ from the crazy windy city.
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I think that since Jim Edmonds is here we need to show him some true Cubbie spirit and welcome him to the team. I find it in poor taste to boo someone on a team that you're a huge fan of. Welcome to Chicago, Jim, hope your bat gets hot!!
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Mark D,
You have blossomed into a complete player. Good for you man! I rooted and watched your since 1998. I'm glad you proved some of our BC boys wrong! This couldn't have happened to a better person...u Animal!! I wish you all the luck in the future.
Espo#30
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oh man, this interview was fantastic!
good luck this year :)
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Great stuff!
Lazier la bon temp rouler!
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Awwww, TheRiot can give me mouth-to-mouth any time...
Thanks for the exciting game last night, it was totally worth the hypothermia!
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Awww Mark!
I loved reading this, well I love reading all your blogs! You guys made me laugh :) Makes my day at work so much better...lol...
Great game last night, kept me on the edge of my seat! But you guys came through! Love you guys all so much!
Go Cubs Go!
P.S. You should interview other guys, maybe Geo! Oh and you can check me out at www.myspace.com/mexicanprincess52
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This blog made me very happy, because I'm just a little in love with the both of you! I would love to see more banter between you 2 - and look forward to your future "Thunder & Lightning".
You are my fave Cubbies, great players, and joy to watch. Thanks!
Hey - if either of you need any acupuncture or herbal rememdies, give me a call! Check out my website: www.acugina.com
Keep up the good work!! Go Cubs, Go!!!
Love & Fairy Kisses,
Firepanther
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That post was hilarious! My sisters and I are cracking. Keep the posts coming. We suggest interviews with: D-Lee, Fontenot, Big Z, Roger Bear, Bob and Len, Sweet Lou, Bob Howry, Fukudome's translator, the athletic trainers, and Ronny Woo Woo:)
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DeRo and Riot, my favorite 2 cubbies. Keep up the good work Mark, both on the field and on the blog. :)
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This is great! I recently bought a signed picture of you at an auction. It's especially good because I'm in the middle of Cards territory and still had to pay a good chunk of change! Keep up the good work!
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Mark,
HA! This was hillarious! I would definately say you should do more of these interview with other teammates!!!
And YES, I can see you and Theriot being baseball commentators together in the future!
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The great thing about this team is that they aren't concerning themselves with personal accolades, but merely winning games. Last year was an adjustment as they got used to Piniella, now that process is over and they are truly ready to make a run.
PS - Mark, did you get some extra satisfaction as you swept the Diamondbacks after what they did to you guys last year?
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I'm a huge fan of the Cubs. I love you and Theriot and the rest of the team. I haven't made a game yet this year. it be sweet if one of the two hottest players on the Cubs team could hook me up with some tickets behind home plate...like 3 or 4 preferrably in June.
So what bars do the single players hang out at after the game?
I know you are wondering, Ted Lilly is the third hottest player. The least attractive is Reed Johnson.
Look me up on myspace: My display name is Sweet Sweet Annie. My e-mail is annie100483@hotmail.com
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Hey mark you got skills man i watch all the cubs games that i can cuz i lovies you guys *hugs* say hi to lou for me
- Laura
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Mark, keep the beard.
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DeRo, way to go, man!That was an incredible game! No matter what happens this year, I hope you and the rest of the team remember to have fun along the way.
PS-The fans don't get to say who's a Cub or not! If Jim is in a Cub uni, he's a Cub.
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You better come back on the Pulse soon because thousands more just fell in love with you! Don't let it get to your head though, the Cubs are team playing like the best team in the country should, keep it going. We love all you guys!
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What an amazing win! What would the Cubs do without you?
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So, I didn't get to see the game today against the Rockies. The lady in the office came out to tell me the Cubs were down 7-0 already. My reply was basically if any team can do it, it's this one. I get off of work and turn on the radio to hear the Cubbies are up 10-9 going into the 9th inning. I'll just say I've never felt the hairs on my neck stand up like that in my life. This team never ceases to amaze me! You guys aren't even playing to your full potential and still mowing down teams. Seeing that Cub win made my week. You guys have no idea how much these fans REALLY do appreciate you. Thank you.
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Congrats on the game winner. What a great game. I was totally bummed in the third but what a comeback. Great game by all! Love every one of you and this is the year for sure. Love your blog and the interview was so funny. You should interview Ron Santo soon. Take care.
Glomom
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You make it look easy, Mark!
Hope we get some Cubby insight into today's AMAZING win, congrats!
Jen
http://cubblogging.blogspot.com/
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WOW! What a game today! I'm speechless. Seriously, I have been a devoted Cubs fan since I was in the womb, and I have never been more proud than I am this season. Every one of you out there are so outstanding. Also, love the blogs. They are so funny, and let us fans see a lighter, more personal side of you. Keep up the good work. I do have one question. My 12 year old son has proclaimed himself to be a Cardinal fan, (gasp!). I'm not sure if this is for real, or just a way to get to Mom, but I am constantly wondering where I have failed as a parent. :) Do you have any suggestions on how to turn this poor misguided child on the right path?
Again... great game... love you guys!
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I just want you guys to know that watching the games as much as I can is the highlight of my day, and when its a win its gets even better! I feel the chemistry between the teammates. I've been a Cubs fan since I can remember and always will be. I think its great to have a blog like this! And the game today was insane! I checked the score at my lunch break.. you guys down 8 to 1, then as I was leaving work.. I checked with my fingers crossed hoping something happened and yes indeed it did! I bet it felt good!!!
Congrats and keep up the good work! Lets do this!!
Go Cubs
FYI - Mark your my Favorite player, I hate it when I miss seeing you bat!
Jen
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Mark, Blog us quick! Please tell us how great it felt to hit that home run. The first innings were sad but I kept watching because there's something about this team this year that won't let me give up until the last out of the last inning. You guys are so much fun to watch. I have to disagree with the person above who said Reed Johnson isn't hot...ALL the CUBBIES are HOT and they proved it today. All I can say is WOW!!
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Mark,
I was at the game today along with my mother, grandmother, and little brother, and it was a tough one to swallow for the first 5 innings. Yet, by the end, this was by far the most exciting game I've ever witnessed at Wrigley. I just wanted to congratulate you on the prime-time-player dinger you put in the seats in 7th. If anyone deserves to cap off a game like that, it's you.
I also wanted to relay my support/love for your blog. As a sports writer, it's nice to see and get to know a different side of players versus the standard lingo/responses to postgame questions in the locker room. Please let us know how today really felt; kids and adults alike have dreamed and continue to do so of doing what you were able to accomplish today.
Go Cubs Go!
Jared
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Dude, that was one of the best games I have ever heard(listening on XM). I thought Ronnie was going to have a heart attack right there in the booth. You are a BEAST! and for the record you should be in RF, Cedeno at SS, and Fuku in CF. We have GOT to get that shmuck Edmonds out of center. There is no logical reason for him to be on this team, be honest, you know it's true
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Theriot at second.... I guess
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You completely rocked the house yesterday! I can't wait to watch that 7th again on Comcast Sportsnet today - in fact, I think I will go do that now!
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To Smalltowngal, take it as a compliment if you can. Boys love competition. You've taught him loyalty so if he's made up his mind you are most likely out of luck. What I would do is recruit every decent twelve year old, or slightly younger, girl you know as your Cubby Buddies and have the fun we fans are known for. He'll see what he's missing once the hormones kick in.
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Awesome blog! I didn't realize your humor was competition for Demster's. You and Theriot have really contributed to this lineup, keep up the good work!
As a side note, when you've struggled offensively it seems to involve swinging under the ball, probably due to an uppercut. It seems to be producing good results, but when contact is needed, like in 2 strike counts, maybe an approach change might help?
Maybe during 2 strike counts you could try swinging more level or down on the ball? Just my two cents. Love the OBP, keep up the good work!
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I am so proud of this team and you, keep up the good work. This is our year.
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Mark,
Thanks for writing this blog. It's great to get to know the guys just a little better, and congrats on your two run homer to beat the Rockies in another exciting come from behind win! It's been a great season so far,
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Mark,
Thanks for writing this blog. It's great to get to know the guys just a little better, and congrats on your two run homer to beat the Rockies in another exciting come from behind win! It's been an awesome season so far; thanks and keep up the great work! Can't wait to read your next blog!
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This blog is great!
You can tell this is a special team, win or lose, because of the love shown by former players and people associated with the team. Watching a clip of Glenallen Hill hitting his rooftop shot was such a great memory, as well as seeing Santo in the booth and hearing from Sutcliffe earlier in the week as he is returning from treatment. There are so many great memories.......... how can you not love it?
How strange.......... I used to worry when we would get over .500, and now I am wondering when we will pull away from 10 games over! We're getting spoiled!
Go Cubs, and thanks Riot and DeRo!
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Mark,
This is for the whole team: BUNT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Is there anyone on the team that can drag bunt? Pie would be the guy to do it. If/when he ever gets back again to the bigs Lou should make him bunt 5 times every game. He'll beat out at least 2 of every 5.
Dave in La
P.S. Tell Lou not to forget the squeeze too! The squeeze against the White Sox was the pivot point for the second half turnaround.
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Hiya Mark and congrats to you and the Cubbies on a great season so far. Its so fun to watch you guys, the atmosphere is always amazing at Wrigley of course but its also fun to see Cubs fans outnumber the other teams fans as well no matter where you are at; goes to show how you guys are so loved.
Anyway, you are by far my fave on the team, with "The Riot" following just behind. The interview was absolutely hysterical and hope to see more of them. I also love watching and listening to Dempster do his imitations of Harry. Too bad you three couldn't get together and have Ryan Dempster play Harry and call a mock game, I know I would LMAO. Speaking of calling games, have you ever heard the skit of the first ball game done on the Bob & Tom show? Its hysterical, you should really try and find it.
Keep up the good work Mark, I know you're in a little slump but you'll come out of it, you always do. At least you have that upbeat charisma to fall on. Take care and give the guys my love.
Lisa R.
Toledo, Illinois
DIE HARD Cub Fan
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I didn't know you had a blog going and I LOVE IT!!! I found it when looking at the stats for the Cubs so far and it is great to read all of this! I just wanted to say that I hope you read all these comments because you have a lot of fans who think your an MVP for this team day in and day out! I have been fan of the CUBS for 20 plus years and I love the team we have now....its great to see you guys win and make a run for October!!!
Can't wait to read more blogs!
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Talk about the best possible blog ever on the entire internet! I was born into a family of Cubs fanatics, so it's in my DNA to love these guy. On my own, I've developed favorite players over the years, but never liked anyone as much as Mark (with no disrespect to Ryan, as he's hands down my next favorite). I Got to see these two live, in action at Wrigley on May 10th. Let me refresh the memories of anyone trying to recall: It was in the middle of sweeping the Diamondbacks! As a long-time fan, one learns what "not to say" regarding this team. So I'll just put it this way: I've never seen a better group of ballplayers on this or any other team in my entire life! Fantasy leagues?... just give me the 2008 Chicago Cubs, lock, stock and barrel. Damn, what I could do with $1 Billion. Mark & Ryan: best of luck the rest of this and future seasons. I'll be cheering you on from Logansport, Indiana... unless it's a day when I'm lucky enough to score tickets again for me and my two brothers. Sam
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Good stuff D-Ro!! You guys really seem to enjoy playing together as a team. It's very exciting to watch (win or lose). Except, it has been great to be on the winning end of the stick lately. I wish you guys well on the west coast road trip. Keep up the good work and look forward to the next posting. Joe Bizianes - Louisville, KY - Cubfan4life
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hey guys Me and my father have been cub fans for life and weve seen some good teams, but you guys rock! this year is giving me something to brag about, so dont make me a liar. lol and could you say something to Ted Lilly for me? I know hes been having a rough go and sometimes gets booed for his perfoormance, but tell him we still know hes a great pitcher, and a vital part of this team. and tell him to keep workin on that swing, hes got the most awesome swing ive seen in a pitcher!
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Youre nicknames should be Ron Burgandy and Veronica Corningstone. I'll let you two decide who gets to be who, but I think we all know the answer to that one already...
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You guys are so funny... me n my lil sister were just laughing like so hard... mark u should take Geo jogging too... lol... j/k... = )
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Mark you're Thunder and Ryan is Lightning! You guys are so funny! Go Cubs!
Love,
Lizzy and Jane
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Hi Mark,
I don't think I can recall ever seeing the Cubs so solid around second and short. It seems that with you, Theriot, Fontenot, and Ronny Cedeno..there are simply no weaknesses. Is there some position that you can't play?Everyone is a great fielder and great hitter. For years I would watch the team and dread the 6,7, and 8 slots in the order, figuring they would be non-factors. Now, it doesn't matter what inning or who's up to bat, from the 1 spot to the eighth...and if Zambrano is pitiching...even the ninth slot is dangerous. I can't imagine what opposing pitchers must think when facing this lineup. There are simply no weaknesses, and I can't think any player that I wish the Cubs had over what they have now. I wouldn't trade anyone on this team. My only concern is starting pitiching. The relief pitching is great, but I really see only one big time starter. Any talk of solidifying the starting pitching?
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I just discovered your blog, and now I'm going to be reading it all the time. I've been a huge Cubs fan all 25 years of my life. This is my first Cubs season not living in IL; luckily we get WGN TV, but I'm dyin'. I really want to be at Wrigley watching the games like I was able to be last year. And good job for bringing Michael Johns out to sing and hang out at the game - I loved him on American Idol, and I was so happy to hear you two are friends. Just get The Riot and then MJ's best Idol buddy David Cook in there and we'd really be in for some laughs!
Anyway, great interview with Ryan. You two are hilarious! I am definitely looking forward to reading this blog. You're one of my favorite Cubs, and I'm glad we get to read your behind-the-scenes thoughts.
Go Cubs Go!
Molly
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~Mark~
This was a great post! As we all tend to pick favorites, you are my nieces favorite. She gets so excited to watch you play and Theriot is my favorite. So we really enjoyed this blog. Also, my sister is a huge Soto fan so if you get the chance to sit down with him, she would be very excited! :) Keep the posts coming, we love to hear about the best baseball team in the league! Lot's of love and support from your Utah fans~Milli, Mist and Destiny
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TheChicago Cubs will always suck ***......Just because you think you are doing good doean't mean you're going to win a world series....I mean hey just look at the St. Louis Cardinals They've won their division pretty much every year ...that mean the Cub's haven't. And stop it with the stupid signs saying "This is the year!" because if I recall last year you thought you were doing good so you just assumed you were going to win a world series but apparently the signs didn't help your team you didn't win your world series. I mean you don't see the Cardinals holding up any signs like that because they don't have to they usually win their division and have the 2nd best world series wins overall in the major leagues with 10... the Cubs have what 1? in 1908 100 years ago. That's depressing so don;t you even dare say the Cubs have been better then the Cardinals because uhh gee they're not!!!!.......Oh Ya Cubs suc !!!!! They will always suck hey maybe you'll get that 2nd world series title in about 100 years or so?? maybe 200 ....we'll see.....
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Mark,
I have seen you beat yourself up when you thought your game was less than perfect. I sure hope you patted yourself on the back for the game on June 8th.!!!!!!!!!!! I am not taking anything away from the pitching but we have to have runs. GREAT JOB!!! My 8 year old granddaughter wants to say something. My mom and I are the greatest fans of the CUBS and GO CUBS GO, GO CUBS! YEAH
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You guys seem so aproachable. the fact that you guys still get star struck makes me laugh because that just shows that your just like everyone else. i look up to you guys alot I've even named you guys as parts of my family. your are my Best friend. Theriot is my Boyfriend. Ryan Dempster is my uncle Larry, and Mike Fontenot "Little Mike" is my big brother. I think this blog is a good idea, sometimes you forget that you guys are just regular guys who like to drink beer and have fun. I know its still a while away but your so knowledgable about the game have you ever thought of coaching later on in life.
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Mark...fabulous blog. This one inparticular really made me giggle. Last summer I traveled from Chicago to see the series in PA against the Pirates. Not a very good series, however after the game, as I was sitting in the bar I noticed the cubs bus right out the window. I ran across the street to try and catch a glimpse and there you all were loading the bus. I was wearing a DeRosa shirt and was trying to get your attention to come say hi to me. You literally turned around and said NO. When I met you this year at Cubs Convention I told you that story and you said "That doesn't sound like something I would do...It must have been Theriot!" Then I had to inform you that while you were being rude, Ryan actually came up to me, took a pic, and signed my ticket. Yeah...busted you there my friend : ) Later at Cubs Convention I listened to you and Theriot amoung your other teamates at a seminar w/ those two ladies from the WGN show...quite funny. The point of all of this is that you guys make quite the duo. I conquer w/ the "Thunder and Lightening" idea!
In any event...as entertaining as you are in these blogs, you are more importantly a talented ball player. I have watched you since you were in Texas and talked you up before anyone in Chi town even knew who you were. I think you are quite the asset for the Cubbies....and heck..even my fantasy baseball teams. (except for a period of time in May...sorry I had to bench you for a week. You got out of your funk though) Good luck with the rest of the season. This years team is playing better than I have seen in a long time. It's an exciting time in Chicago. Thanks for being part of what makes this city the best city.
~Jen
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DaRosa you are a GREEK God ! You are also the Cutest guy on the team next to Zambrano ! LOL I think we will go far with this team ! And I wished I would of been the one to give you Mouth to mouth !! LOL Thank God for Theroit !
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My girl friend made me read this today. Very funny.
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Wait wait wait.
Was that mouth-to-mouth thing true or was it a joke?
As you said to Riot, we can't tell when you're being funny :]
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I love this post! It is hilarious. you should definitley do more posts like this.
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