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Willson Contreras Is Headed To The DL With Hamstring Injury, Out 4-6 Weeks

By
Aldo Soto
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The Chicago Cubs are going to be without Willson Contreras for quite some time, as the young catcher is heading to the disabled list with a strained right hamstring, but considering the worst case scenario this is actually good news. Contreras was injured during Wednesday’s 3-1 loss to the San Francisco Giants, running to first base in the eighth inning. However, he’s only expected to miss 4-6 weeks.

Rookie catcher, Victor Caratini, who made his MLB debut earlier this season with the Cubs, has been called up to take Contreras’ spot on the 25-man roster. Theo Epstein was on 670 The Score earlier on Thursday and said the Cubs will not be looking to add a catcher via the waiver trade market. So, that means we’ll see a lot of recently acquired catcher Alex Avila behind the plate.

Don’t get me wrong, losing Contreras for a month obviously hurts the Cubs but it’s not the end of the world. This roster still has the best talent in the division and after this weekend’s three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks they play 24 straight games against teams with a below .500 record. And if the Brewers keep regressing, that easy schedule would stretch to 30 straight games against below .500 teams.

Of course, there’s never a guarantee that the better team will always win, as we just saw in San Francisco, but the Cubs should be able to expand their division lead in the next month even with the loss of Contreras. It won’t be easy because during the previous couple weeks we’ve seen Kris Bryant’s power decrease after his hand injury in Atlanta, Jason Heyward hasn’t been producing while at the same time Kyle Schwarber and Ian Happ look bad again at the plate.

You expect Bryant and Anthony Rizzo to pick it up with the absence of Contreras, who has been the best Cubs player since the middle of June, and with an easy schedule and strong starting pitching this team should be fine. But again, losing Contreras makes it harder for the Cubs, no doubt about that.

But hey, if history repeats itself, Willy should be back in time to be a World Series hero for the Cubs. Actually, earlier than that.

Aside from Kyle Schwarber’s injury last year, it’s incredible the amount of luck the Cubs have had since the beginning of 2015 with injuries. Even this one, it looked bad, possibly season-ending, but he could be back in less than a month according to Jesse Rogers.

Bears Expected To Push Kyle Fuller Trade Before Final Cuts

By
Erik Lambert
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kyle fuller

Fans were really holding out hope that things could still work out. Then again a Kyle Fuller trade should’ve been expected from the beginning. It must not be forgotten that this team belongs to Ryan Pace. His overarching mission since he took over in 2015 was to purge the roster of every player that his predecessors Jerry Angelo and Phil Emery added.

There are a few exceptions like Kyle Long who earned his way with Pro Bowl seasons. However, if any player not added by Pace failed to perform they’ve since been dismissed. Fuller was up and down in 2015 and then missed 2016 with a knee injury. He had to have a strong camp and preseason to save his job.

Unfortunately it appears he hasn’t done enough. After hinting at it initially a few days ago, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune is now getting confirmation that the Bears will attempt to trade the embattled former first round pick before the roster cut down date on September 2nd.

Kyle Fuller trade becomes less “if” and more “when”

“The consensus in talking to people around the league is the Bears will likely attempt to trade cornerback Kyle Fuller before roster cuts are due at 3 p.m. on Sept. 2. That’s what I gathered after speaking with a variety of folks from other cities over the last week. They seem to think it’s a matter of when and not if the Bears try to deal the 2014 first-round draft pick. Whether this is legitimate or not remains to be seen but there’s an awful lot of smoke and usually where there’s smoke you’re eventually going to find a fire. “

It’s a real shame because there were moments that Fuller looked like he had tons of promise. Sadly scheme changes, injury and his own inconsistencies got in the way. Some may argue he has no value at this point but lets be honest. Fuller is 25-years old. He still has talent and the demand for corners in the NFL never ceases. If Pace could find takers for Jonathan Bostic, then he can do the same for Fuller.

Sure the return might not be huge, most likely a late round pick, but the Bears are at a point where they don’t have any use for him anymore. Watch teams like Carolina and Atlanta, both of whom have corner needs to express some interest. There will be others.

Mike Ditka Pulls Tom Brady Card, Says Trubisky Should Start

By
Erik Lambert
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mike ditka mitch trubisky

Clearly it didn’t take long for the Mike Ditka Mitch Trubisky crush to settle in. Anybody who considers themselves a Chicago Bears fan knows that Ditka isn’t afraid to share his opinion. He’ll give it loud and give it uncensored. That’s what makes Da Coach so memorable and beloved in the Windy City. He’s also known for being a harsh critic of quarterbacks, especially in Chicago. So that’s why his initial impression of Trubisky came off as shocking.

TMZ Sports caught up with him following the Bears’ 24-17 preseason loss to the Denver Broncos. Trubisky himself played well in the game with 168 yards and a touchdown for a 103.1 quarterback rating. Though he technically had seven incompletions (18-of-25), two of those passes were clear drops by his receivers.

All in all it was an impressive evening for the rookie. Did Ditka feel the same way?

Mike Ditka Mitch Trubisky praise is real

Understand that most media personalities would’ve danced around the question. They would’ve praised Trubisky but warned that it’s way too early to pass judgment. That’s fair. Ditka though, again, isn’t one to waste time on diplomatic answers. He saw Mike Glennon. He saw Mark Sanchez. Did he think watching them that the Bears could win football games this year? No.

That of course was followed up by his most startling statement.

“What I saw out of Trubisky, for a rookie in his first game, was outstanding. I don’t know of too many rookies including Tom Brady or Fran Tarkenton or anybody else who’s ever that kind of a start.”

Okay maybe it’s a bit over the top, which is classic Ditkas, but referencing two Hall of Famers is still a pretty big deal. It takes a lot to impress Iron Mike on anything. He’s a man who played with Roger Staubach, one of the best ever. So his standards are pretty high. For him to declare Trubisky as the man is a big deal.

 

Yoan Moncada Ties Game With HR and Then Gets Walk-Off Single!

By
Erik Lambert
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yoan moncada walk-off

Some people may end up saying that August 10th, 2017 was the dawning of a new era for two Chicago franchises. While the Bears watched quarterback Mitch Trubisky dazzle in his preseason debut, the White Sox ended up trumping even that. How? Through the singular brilliance of their new rising star in Yoan Moncada.

A lot of people didn’t give the Sox a chance against the red hot Houston Astros going into this series. Then, for whatever reason, the team channelled their inner 2005 spirits and put themselves in position for a sweep on Thursday night. It didn’t look like it would happen as they trailed 2-1 with one out in the ninth inning.

Then Moncada Magic began.

With one swing of the bat the 22-year old had tied the game, sending it to extra innings.

Yoan Moncada walk-off caps herculean victory

He wasn’t done though. After battling through the 10th the Sox had another chance in the bottom of the 11th. Moncada was up again with a man on second. At this point people can pretty much guess what happened next.

It was a stellar evening for the young infielder and a sign of things to come. Sooner or later the White Sox will start calling on other members of that loaded farm system to join the fun. It may be awhile before the winning really begins again on the South Side, but with Moncada leading the charge it’s feeling more and more inevitable each day. Feel free to celebrate this one.

Fired Up Bears Defense Shows Tremendous Promise

By
Erik Lambert
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chicago bears defense

The Chicago Bears defense got handed precisely nothing from the offense for almost the entire first half of the preseason opener against Denver. Mike Glennon threw a pick-six on a horrible throw. Cody Whitehair somehow snapped another over his head for a fumble. Then Mark Sanchez and his unit was plagued by drops and miscues. So to explain that and say the defense managed to give up just three points in that span? That’s definitely a win.

In fact there were plenty of moments worth getting excited about for this group. Leonard Floyd kicked things off with a bang. It’s been reported for weeks that he’s heavier than last year and hasn’t lost any of his speed. Not only that but his hand technique and fundamentals are better as well. He decided to play show-and-tell with a sack of Trevor Siemian on the first defensive play of the game.

If that continues and the Bears can get Pernell McPhee back healthy? Oh my this could be a fun ride in 2017.

Chicago Bears defense also showcased improved tackling

One of the first things that stood out about the effort from the first and second defensive units was their tackling. Normally this time of year it’s sloppy. They can’t wrap guys up and take bad angles. There wasn’t much of either through the first three quarters. The defensive line, linebackers and secondary all did their part in limiting extra yards.

It wasn’t until the third stringers came in that the breakdowns arrived, allowing Denver to escape with a win on two late touchdowns. One resulting from a busted coverage, the other courtesy of a long run aided by a hold that wasn’t called. Regardless the final score didn’t matter. The real part of the defense performed up to standards for the most part.

Eddie Jackson looked like the real deal

The most encouraging thing to see was the performance of the Bears draft class. Every notable rookie had his positive moments. Mitch Trubisky and Tarik Cohen looked outstanding. Adam Shaheen had some decent moments. However, people almost overlooked safety Eddie Jackson.

A fourth round pick from Alabama, experts weren’t sure how to feel about him. He came into Chicago still healing from a broken leg. Former coaches and teammates swore the Bears had gotten a steal, but pessimism reigned. It didn’t take Jackson long to show what they might have. On a number of plays in the game he showed impressive play recognition and closing speed.

In one instant he almost had an interception and on another he drove down to make a nice tackle. Something critics weren’t sure he could do.

If he can build on that and apply to actual games that matter, then the Bears defense is in that much better shape. People have felt the one thing they’re missing is good safety play. This game showed that they might be right.

Mitch Trubisky Starts 10-10, Dominates Preseason Opener

By
Erik Lambert
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mitch trubisky starter

Mike Glennon may have said for weeks that he’s not nervous. He could’ve fooled Chicago Bears fans with his 2-for-8 affair in the preseason opener that included a pick-six on the first series. The Mitch Trubisky starter chants grew louder the moment that happened and they got even worse when the rookie first round pick finally got onto the field late in the first half.

Chicago may have lost the game 24-17, but nobody will be talking about that for the next week. Trubisky came onto the field and immediately looked like he belonged. In leading a touchdown drive to close out the half, he went 9-for-9 with a touchdown throw to Victor Cruz to cap it. He eventually went 10-for-10 before his first incompletion.

Mitch Trubisky starter chants are inevitable now

The rookie ended up leading two touchdown drives on the evening along with another that ended in a field goal. During that entire time he looked calm, poised in the pocket and threw some precise passes despite his receivers not always getting open or catching the ball when they should’ve. Two other passes were batted down.

He also showcased his undersold mobility. On a number of plays he didn’t find anybody open so he tucked the ball and ran for big yardage. It was an all-around impressive debut. Especially considering the Broncos were throwing a lot of blitzes and different looks at him.

Trubisky finished the night 18-of-25 for 168 yards and a touchdown with no turnovers. Considering that was in little over a half of football, it was something to applaud. When was the last time a Bears rookie QB looked like that in a preseason debut? Probably never. His execution was far beyond that of a man with only 13 college starts under his belt.

There is still plenty to work on. He was a bit sloppy at times with his reads and needs to learn how to throw through windows. That will come with more time and practice. As things stand though, Glennon is almost certain to feel the pressure after this.

Yoan Moncada Solo Shot Ties Game In 9th!

By
Emmet McClain
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It had been a slow game for the recently hot Moncada heading into the 9th inning. He had a walk in his first appearance, but was without a hit. That changed pretty quickly, as Yoan worked a 2-0 count, sat on a fastball, and unloaded on an opposite field bomb.

Moncada has been heating up as of late. Despite his low batting average, he still has the upside of a bonafide superstar. Things are getting interesting at Guaranteed Rate as the White Sox look to sweep the best team in the American League.

For the First Time in 8 Years the Bulls Will Be Spectators

By
Matthew Milakovich
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fred hoiberg dwyane wade jimmy butler trade rumors bulls

Today the NBA officially announced it’s opening week and Christmas day schedule– and for the first time in 8 years the Bulls will not be taking the floor on the marquis slate of the NBA regular season.

Since the inception of the NBA Christmas day extravaganza, the Bulls have played 21 times, including the past 7 years in a row with an overall record of 13-8– which, for what it’s worth, ranks seventh in league history.

So why will they be excluded this year?

One could say that it’s due to the lack of star-power, considering since trading Jimmy Butler their best player will be… Zach LaVine?

But Hey!

He can dunk good!

Image result for zach lavine dunk gif

Real good.

Related image

So yeah… If that’s all the Bulls have going for them, it doesn’t necessarily scream ratings.

You know what does though? LaVine’s old team (Jimmy Butler’s new one)– the ever so intriguing Minnesota Timberwolves taking on the Los Angeles L(onzo Balls)akers in the prime time slot!

Oh how topsy turvy the sports world can be.

And while there are bad teams (Philadelphia 76ers @ New York Knicks) playing on Baby Jesus’ birthday (debatable) at least they have even the slightest dash of panache.

Ohhh, I kind of like the way that rhymed.

The Sixers have Ben Simmons, who many have been waiting what seems like 13 years to play a meaningful game. The Sixers also have number one overall pick Markelle Fultz.

And while the Knicks are well, the Knicks… meaning they’re really bad. The Knicks are a car crash, a circus, and a freak show all rolled into one. No matter how terrible, people can’t seem to look away and ignore. So yeah, they’re the Knicks.

Maybe even JD and the Straight Shot will play the halftime show!!

Yes, that’s really James Dolan’s band… and yes that’s his official music video. JD and the Straight Shot is randomly my favorite thing every time I remember it. For whatever reason the frivolity of it just brings me great joy.

So the Bulls won’t be playing on Christmas this year.

Oh well. It’s not necessarily surprising– and if you’re seated around the fire, dinner table, presents etc. seeking a silver lining just remember– at least you won’t have to witness a loss that brings sorrow to a day reserved for joy to the world and all that jazz.

At any rate, Cheers! And regardless of how bleak the future looks, as always, See Red.

 

The 5 Bears Preseason Opener Stories That Matter More than Winning

By
Erik Lambert
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mitch trubisky

Would beating the Denver Broncos in the preseason opener make for a feel-good moment? Sure. Will it have any impact on the overall year? Zero. The Chicago Bears story lines for this 2017 kickoff game are plentiful. More so than in a long time. Hopes are high that this is the year the team starts pulling itself out of the doldrums after a long rebuilding phase.

Of course head coach John Fox hates using the word “rebuild” but facts are facts. In a short space of time the Bears have gone from one of the oldest NFL teams to one of the youngest. That is undoubtedly going to come with some growing pains. What fans want to see is how quickly they can get over such issues.

So what should fans be watching rather than the actual final score? What do they really want to see? Here are five key subplots that deserve careful observation.

Mitch Trubisky vs. the blitz

This may seem oddly specific. At this point people just want to see the #2 overall pick of the draft play in live NFL action. That’s fair, but for the Bears it goes deeper than that. One of the things they’ve focused on throughout training camp are his fundamentals. They want to get him to a point where he doesn’t fall back into his college habits when under duress.

For rookie QBs, the quickest way this happens is by seeing frequent blitzing. One can bet the Broncos defense will be anxious to throw some exotic looks his way. It will be interesting to see if Trubisky can adjust to the pressure and makes some plays. Not only with his feet, as he’s done in camp, but also with good reads in the pocket.

Tarik Cohen vs. live tackling

Easily the most exciting rookie of training camp to this point has been fourth rounder Tarik Cohen. The 5’6″ running back has created all sorts of havoc on the field with his mix of speed, agility and quickness. It’s difficult for defenders to get a bead on him and he’s a nightmare in open space. Of course that’s well and good when live bullets aren’t firing.

Head coach John Fox warned he’s not drawing conclusions until he sees Cohen against serious tackling. That means this preseason matchup will be the first indication on whether Cohen is for real. Admittedly the play calling will also play a factor. Will the Bears get a little creative to find him space or just keep it simple?

Who steps up at wide receiver?

This is a big one. Outside of Cameron Meredith, who seems poised for a big year, the Bears have zero clue what they have at wide receiver. At this point it’s assortment of has-been veterans (Victor Cruz, Kendall Wright), youngsters slowed by injury (Kevin White, Markus Wheaton) and training camp darlings (Tanner Gentry, Daniel Braverman).

It’s a group with loads of potential but also loads of question marks. Going up against a strong secondary like Denver will be a great measuring stick for them. More than anything it will help the coaches sort out who is for real and who’s been pretending in practice. Sometimes it comes down to who gets the hot hand at the right time.

The interior defense against the run

The front seven of the Bears defense is widely viewed as their biggest strength on the team. There is young talent across the board from the defensive line to the linebackers. Problem is despite this praise they haven’t lived up to the hype. Not yet anyway. Part of the reason is a litany of injuries that struck last year along with a persistent issue.

That being their run defense. Chicago was 27th in the league at stopping opponents on the ground. That averages out to over 121 yards per game. It’s little wonder they kept failing to win close games. The defense never had the gas at the end to prevent decisive scores. Having a healthy Eddie Goldman in the middle and Danny Trevathan at linebacker will be vital to changing that.

Finding the hawks

If the defense has one overarching obsession going into 2017, it’s finding a way to create more turnovers. An understandable thing when they have a league-worst 11 last year. Another of those key stats that explain why they didn’t win more games. It’s for that reason they so drastically overhauled the secondary in March and April.

Quintin Demps, Marcus Cooper and Eddie Jackson arrive on the roster with backgrounds centered around taking the ball away. So far the results in practice are promising. The next step is whether they can so the same in a game situation. Add in the fact that several other young DBs are fighting for a roster spot, and each turnover could be a game-changer.

Kyle Fuller Trade Possible Depending On Preseason Performance

By
Erik Lambert
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kyle fuller

A Kyle Fuller trade is a subject that has been off and on for months. Chicago Bears fans wonder if the team might try to unload him elsewhere for a mid-to-late round pick. The reason being his questionable fit in their new defense and the desire for a fresh start. To this point that hasn’t come to pass. Why? There are a number of reasons.

Fire and foremost is his value. Right now it’s just not that good. No surprise. Fuller hasn’t played football since the end of 2015. He missed all of last season with a knee issue that required surgery. So both fans and other teams aren’t sure where the 25-year old is at. Is he back to the effective player he was before the injury or has he lost a step?

Given the depth of competition at cornerback this year with arrivals like Prince Amukamara and Marcus Cooper, some feel Fuller could be on his way out. Is a trade possible? According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, that may depend on his performance in preseason.

Kyle Fuller trade may gain steam with strong preseason

“Fuller faces competition to make the 53-man roster and unless he has a very productive preseason, he holds little to no trade value in my opinion when you consider he didn’t play a single down last season. White also possesses very little trade value when you consider he hasn’t been able to stay on the field. Maybe if Fuller plays well the Bears could look to deal him and a fresh start elsewhere might be good for him.”

It’s not out of the realm of possibility. Preseason trades happen more often than people think. Most of the time it’s either player-for-player exchanges or player for late round picks. Perhaps GM Ryan Pace may find a team eager for corner help willing to offer a player in return who can help the Bears at a needy position. Either that or he can further add to his stockpile of picks for 2018.

Sports Mockery indicated in a previous piece that a team like Philadelphia seems like the ideal destination. They run a defensive system that Fuller would fit well and having a glaring need for cornerback help. If nothing else this is definitely something to monitor as the preseason gets going over the next four weeks.

Do the Bears keep Fuller around or decide to give him a new opportunity elsewhere?

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