The Gist: Game #2

Cubs 2, Elderly Hunters 3

Ryan Dempster, who will remain the most important offseason signing until Milton Bradley gets a hit, pitched six solid innings, giving up two runs. The real hero was Soriano, who tied the game with a gigantic solo shot in the top of the eighth. It was a bomb that nearly cleared the entire stadium, and was made even more sweet by being launched off of LaTroy Hawkins. Alfonso Soriano: 2009 MVP.

Koyie Hill entered the game in the sixth when (i heart) Soto left with a sore shoulder. He had an excellent play in the bottom of the seventh, gunning down Kaz Matsui trying to steal second. Who says you need properly functioning fingers? Aaron Miles made his Cub debut by striking out in a pinch-hitting role. This further proves that he is no Little Mikey Horse 'n' Phone (tip of the cap to Chuck Klosterman). Unfortunately, the re-vamped bullpen would go on to blow it in the tenth inning, when a broken bat single by Jeff Keppinger plated the game-winning run. The Astros broke a lot of bats tonight. I hope someone was checking for cork.