The Cubs went back to basics, resurrecting some of their spring training drills in a special workout before Thursday night`s game with the Astros.
Players lined up along the third-base line and took turns practicing a series of situational plays: rundowns, pickoffs, infield throws to home, grounders back to the mound, etc.
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The emphasis on fundamentals came after a disastrous series against the Expos when the Cubs lost three consecutive games and botched many routine plays.
”We just wanted to freshen up on a few things,” said manager Jim Lefebvre. ”I thought it would be a good time for something like this.”
Tutor session: Reliever Ken Patterson was singled out for a special drill. He had to practice throwing an intentional walk. Patterson uncorked a wild pitch to the backstop Monday when he tried to intentionally walk Spike Owen in an 11-0 loss to the Expos.
Guest list: No shortage of visitors and walking wounded on the field. Former Cub George Bell stopped in on the White Sox day off to clown around with his former teammates. Will Perdue of the Bulls was hanging around the batting cage. Center-fielder Sammy Sosa was there on his crutches and a new haircut talking about his broken foot. And shortstop Shawon Dunston was taking grounders for the second time in a week. He had been expected to start swinging a bat this week, but trainer John Fierro says that is a week away. Dunston had back surgery in May and is not expected to play again this season. High hopes: Rookie Jim Bullinger makes his first major-league start for the Cubs Saturday. ”I`m looking for nine innings from him,” said Lefebvre. Asked if he expected a no-hit game, as well, Lefebvre said: ”No. A one-hitter. I don`t want to put too much pressure on him.” Seriously, Lefebvre said he and pitching coach Billy Connors would keep a close eye on Bullinger when the right-hander got to the 85-pitch count.