As far as home openers go, the Chicago Cubs’ on Monday (April 8) couldn’t have been much better. Well, as far as the temperature is concerned. Sunny and in the 60s. What more could you ask for at Wrigley Field? Perhaps a victory, but let’s not get crazy.
A consolation prize from photographer Don Bersano to help Cubs fans after a losing home opener. Featured is bikini competitor Jen Hugunin.
Recently deposed Cubs closer Carlos Marmol did lead the team in one category Monday: most boos from the crowd. He received them pregame during player introductions and again in the eighth inning when he gave up a run-scoring double by Ryan Braun.
“You’re with these guys every day, and you know who they are behind the scenes and the adversity they have to go through,” Cubs manager Dale Sveum said. “On Opening Day, to get booed like that isn’t fun for anybody. Bringing him in the game, he had to [hear] it twice in one day. It’s unfortunate, but that stuff happens. It’s tough for all of us in that clubhouse to see it.”
Or to hear it.
At least in their 7-4 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers, the Cubs gave their fans something to cheer about by rallying in the ninth inning for two runs and loading the bases before Starlin Castro hit a fly ball to the warning track in right field that was caught to end the game.
If it’s any consolation, the St.Louis Cardinals had their home opener on Monday, too. They allowed nine ninth-inning runs in a 13-4 loss to the Cincinnati Reds.
Things can always be better. Things can always be worse.