Nomar No More

Although we shouldn't be suprised, Cubs fans were more than a bit disappointed last night when Nomar Garciapara tore a groin muscle while struggling to get out of the batters box after hitting a ground ball. He'll be out two to three months.

This, coupled with the injury to Todd Walker, only serves to highlight the weakness of the Cubs bench. In today's game with the Cardinals Jerry Hairston, Neifi Perez, and Henry Blanco are all on the field. Add the pitcher's spot and four of your nine lineup positions are almost totally non-productive.

Coming into the season the only two positions the Cubs were likely to get increased production from were second base and shortstop assuming full seasons from Garciapara and Walker. Now, they'll be lucky to come close to last seaon's productivity in those two slots. Because the Cubs have no depth in the outfield either, there is almost no way Jim Hendry will be able to swing a trade to bring in a decent offensive middle infielder.

The only good news to come out of Chicago this week was the second start for Mark Prior. He's now 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA, 13 IP, 8, 3 BB, 12 SO. Ryan Dempster is also pitching well again today, going into the 5th having given up a single run. Of course, the Cardinals are not hitting well right now but it is encouraging.