Cubs' Winning Attitude Could Prove Postseason-Worthy

COMMENTARY | The Chicago Cubs once again went above .500 in the first game of a weather-induced doubleheader; the Cubs and Padres were rained out Tuesday night. The first game was the "Wednesday" game and the Cubs won it on a "walk off" home run by Reed Johnson in the 11^th inning. It was the second straight game in which the Cubs took the victory in extra innings with a walk off hit.

Carrie Muskat has posted an article at the MLB.com titled "Cubs walk off in 11^th on Johnson's dinger."

First, please watch Reed Johnson's home run. You can see it here. I would ask you to note how Johnson tears out of the batter's box, running as hard as he can. He does not stand and admire his hit like some batters do-he hustles and in doing so does not embarrass and "show up" the pitcher.

This game was pitcher Matt Garza's fourth start and so far he has not gotten a win. However, he pitched well enough to get a win. He only allowed six hits in six innings and no runs.

The Cubs scored in the bottom of the third inning. Garza got on base when his bunt attempt failed and the Padres opted to throw Aramis Ramirez out at third. Ultimately, he would score on Marlon Byrd's single.

San Diego was able to tie the game in the top of the ninth on a sacrifice fly off of Carlos Marmol, who may have been a little tired with all of his recent work.

It was great to hear Garza talk about not getting the win. His attitude is as long as the Cubs get the win, he doesn't care if he ever gets one. I think it is safe to attribute that attitude to one Cubs manager Mike Quade has developed.

I cannot find a video to show you, but something interesting happened late in the game. Some seagulls were fighting over food and the bird being attacked dropped right by the pitcher. The umpire had to retrieve it. It seems this year birds are being more of a problem.

With the win, the Cubs improved their record to 9-8. They are actually hovering around first place in the National League Central.

It's just the beginning of the season, but the Cubs are fighting like they're in a playoff run. Will they join the Blackhawks, Bears and Bulls?

References:

MLB.com Website, Carrie Muskat, "Cubs walk off in 11^th on Johnson's dinger"

MLB.com Website, "Must C Clinch-Reed Johnson Home Run"