Len Kasper gives his Spring Training update to 670 WSCR as Opening Day looms. As usual Len provides a heavy dose of optimism about the 2010 campaign along with some of his concerns (hint: the pitching injuries). Starlin Castro continues to impress Kasper although he maintains that Castro needs to play every day and if the Fontenot-Baker platoon fails then Castro will quickly be at Shortstop with Theriot at Second. More ->
From the category archives:
Len Kasper
I hope Milton Bradley is starting to feel the pressure of yet another Cubs minor leaguer making a quality debut. This time it's Sam Fuld with a couple of hits (including his first major league hit) and an outfield assist as he (when did this last happen) threw a runner out at home!
Lou Piniella, Jim Hendry, and Larry Rothchild
Lou Piniella, Jim Hendry, and Larry Rothchild discuss the 2009 team, Ryan Dempster's evolution and approach as a starter in 2008, who will be the lead-off hitter, Lou's advice to disgruntled fans, and Hendry calms the angry mob by answering why he traded DeRosa.
Jim Hendry
Jim Hendry explains why he let Kerry Wood sign with the Indians, the events that led up to the signing of Milton Bradley, and his take on Fukudome's troubles. Also, Oneri Fleita tells of turning Carlos Marmol from an outfielder into a reliever.
Ted Lilly, Ryan Dempster, Reed Johnson, and Aaron Miles
Ryan Dempster talks about signing his four-year extension, Reed Johnson jokes about his beard and "the catch!", Aaron Miles explains why he signed with the Cubs, and Ted Lilly tells the story of pranking Ryan Dempster. Reed Johnson talks about the signing of Milton Bradley and (wow!) Aaron Miles tells his hostage story.
Pat Hughes, Len Kasper, and Bob Brenly
Pat Hughes talks about what it's like to work with Ron Santo and what he thinks of Carlos Zambrano. Len Kasper puts a positive spin on the playoff meltdown and Bob Brenly gives his thoughts on the 2009 Cubs.
Meet Cubs Management
Jim Hendry, Randy Bush, and Crane Kenney discuss building a team that is strong in the playoffs, how the economy is affecting the business of baseball, hot prospects in the minor leagues, why DeRosa was traded (hint: it's financial), why the Greek Orthodox priest in the playoffs, and why Milton Bradley over Ibanez or Abreu?
The Clubhouse Entertainers
Ryan Dempster lets everyone in on his Moose Horn prank and Lee Smith blames Randy Hundley for a lost fortune after Hundley's decision to turn him into a reliever.
Not For Women Only Session
Ryan Theriot, Jeff Samardzija, Sean Marshall, Reed Johnson, and Aaron Miles talk about what sport they suck at, which celebrity they freaked out over upon meeting, "man crushes," and first kisses.
Game Day Experience
Mike Fontenot, Joey Gathright, Kevin Hart, Koyie Hill, and Ted Lilly talk about superstitions, the support of fans, Fontenot and Hill's unique way to break a slump, and what it's like to play at Wrigley Field.
Len Kasper opines on where the Cubs are right now before heading into the Cubs Convention. Kasper really likes the Bradley signing in that Bradley should be getting on base "a lot," but he is worried about Bradley's health, and he gives his thoughts on the outcome of the first Bradley-Brenley face off. Len also is plugging his House of Blues concert for charity. Let's just hope that Len and Bob do not take the stage like they did here ... I absolutely love the crowd reaction shots and Brenley's attempt at a guitar solo.
Len & Bob - Love Stinks
Bernstein also tries to figure out just what was the reason for the Cubs postseason collapse and if Hendry appropriately addressed that reason in the offseason. Kasper also tells what Fukudome has been doing these past couple of months and his reaction to the Cubs dumping Wood and DeRosa.
LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD - 2009-01-15 - Len Kasper.mp3
Len Kasper was listening to sports radio while driving around Chicago and (as he does from time to time) called in to talk with Boers & Bernstein on 670 THE SCORE about the Cubs moving forward after being swept. Hey, how can you not like Len?!?! Unlike the Joe Buck types who turn off baseball once they get home, Len listens to sports radio and many times will offer his commentary and insight.
LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD - 2008-10-14-Len Kasper.mp3