Aramis Ramirez Is Locked In

One of the biggest reasons the Cubs have built the hole they are in is because Aramis Ramirez had not been productive. But ever since the start of this month (July) Ramirez has found his groove and is starting to hit like the past.  So far in July, Ramirez is boasting a .400 average to go along with 5 home runs and 14 runs batted in.  He says his injured thumb is still bothering him but it didn't stop him from hitting the game winning round tripper as the Cubs have won twice in 2 days.

Ted Lilly pitched a good game in spite of not getting the victory as he allowed just 4 hits over 7 innings with 10 strikeouts. A host of scouts from other teams were in attendance and they walked away impressed as it definitely was not a conducive day for pitching.

Marlon Byrd had a pair of hits including the game tieing home run in the 6th and Carlos Marmol was literally unhittable striking out the side in the 9th for his 17th save.

The Cubs still have a long long ways to go but they have looked better since the break and still believe that they can make a run in the National League Central.