With a growing collection of dazzling catches, clutch hits and monster home runs, former North Side nemesis Jim Edmonds is earning respect from the Cubs faithful.
It hasn’t always been that way for the center-fielder, a thorn in Chicago’s side when he played for archrival St. Louis. But then Edmonds was traded to San Diego in December and ultimately plucked from the scrap heap by the Cubs. This weekend, he’s in the once-unimaginable role of host as the Cardinals visit Wrigley Field. Talk about a crazy season.
Edmonds doesn’t have a MySpace page (that we know of) to share his innermost feelings about this tumultuous season, but RedEye can imagine the drama. Here’s how we think his blog would read.
* MARCH 6
Current mood: Pensive
Not off to a great start with the Padres. Strained my right calf in a Spring Training game. Worse: noticed another crease on my forehead this morning. Note to self: Botox?
* APRIL 5
Current mood: Relieved
Came off the disabled list and went 1-for-4 in a 4-1 win over the Dodgers. The Kid’s still got it!
* MAY 9
Current mood: Weepy
The Kid was released by the Padres.
* MAY 14
Current mood: Conflicted
Signed a one-year deal to play for the Cubs. Better make nice with the Bleacher Bums.
* MAY 15
Current mood: Vulnerable
Not only was my Cubs debut at Wrigley Field, but also it was against San Diego! Singled in my first at-bat and heard cheers. Then struck out with the bases loaded and heard boos. It was an emotional day, but at least we beat the Padres. Who needs a glass of wine and a foot rub? This guy. 😉
* JUNE 27
Current mood: Melancholy
Hit a solo homer, but we got crushed by the Sox, 10-3. And I turned 38 today. And my legs hurt. Really need a pick-me-up.
* JULY 16
Current mood: Stoked
Wasn’t included in the All-Star festivities, so I did the next-best thing during the break: I got married!
* JULY 31
Current mood: How do you like them apples?!?
Drilled a grand slam and a solo home run in an 11-4 win at Milwaukee. Who wants a piece? You’re next, St. Louis!
WEEKEND TV GUIDE
WATCH DOG
By Whizzer
Watching the Olympics in Beijing, it’s hard not to picture what they might look like here in 2016.
Rowing in Lake Michigan. Hoops at the United Center. Women’s beach volleyball in my basement.
What a grand vision.
Anyway, for now we’re stuck with smoggy Beijing, so here’s what I’m watching this weekend from my couch/courtside cabana.
OLYMPICS: MEN’S BASKETBALL
USA vs. China
9 A.M. SUNDAY, NBC
Men, this is the year we reclaim our dignity as a nation. And if LeBron (left) has to throw a few tomahawk jams down on the opposition’s heads, so be it.
Cubs vs. St. Louis
2:55 P.M. SATURDAY, FOX; 7 P.M. SUNDAY, ESPN
Can the Cubbies handle two high-pressure games in the glare of the national TV spotlight? Better than I can handle all the Flomax commercials during the telecast, I’ll tell you that.
White Sox vs. Boston
6:05 P.M. SATURDAY, WGN; 1:05 P.M., CSN
It’s going to be hard rooting against the Red Sox now that Manny is gone. But then I just think about all the other Boston players I can’t stand: Dustin Pedroia (right), Jonathan Papelbon (left) … hey, it’s not so hard after all. Go (White) Sox!
