In like a lion; out like a lamb...

Yes, that is how I would most accurately describe the week for the Cubs. After starting the week with blowout 7-1 and 8-1 home wins over the Mets -- and a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Rockies in 10 -- the ball club faltered at the end, losing two of three to the Nationals.

Should it bother you? Probably not. As I'd mentioned earlier in the week, the season is long, streaks of all sorts come and go, and players have their moments. The only issue of note for me is that I'm a little surprised to see impotent offensive performances from this team, such as the 2-0 shutout yesterday. The 2008 version of the ball club (and this is really the highest compliment that I can think of) is reminiscent of an AL team. Grinding at-bats, numerous professional hitters throughout the lineup, and speed where you need it; certainly capable of manufacturing a few runs when they have to. I trust that this will be one of very few shutouts this season, but still.

So, that said, we'll have to take our 4-3 record for the week, and move on. As of this writing, the Cubs are still 16-9; good for second-best record in the National League. And with good news for Cubs fans; the return of Alfonso Soriano, who expected to be back with the club by Thursday. I'm still not certain why we won't send him over to Peoria first for a few games, to work off the rust. But hey, I'm not paid to manage.

Who's Hot

• Ronny Cedeno - .375 with 2 double, and a Grand Slam. Sometime the best trade is the one not made.
• Derrek Lee - .346, with 2 doubles. MVP!!! MVP!!!
• Ted Lilly - 12IP, 3 ER, 2.25 ERA in two starts. Nice to have you back Ted.

Who's Not

• Geovany Soto - Eight straight strikeouts in the Nationals series. Let's call it the lost weekend, and move on.
• Mark DeRosa - 4-24 (.166 BA). Lou, give that man a day off. No, make it two.
• Bob Howry - 2 1/3IP, 2ER, 7.73 ERA. And let's not forget the walk-off served up to Wil Nieves to end the game Saturday. No, you're right. Let's forget.

Onward then. There's a big three-game set against the Brewers starting tomorrow. Let's hope for a new winning streak -- at their expense. And by the way, drop me a line, and let me know what you think about the Week in Review piece.