If you missed last night's game -- that 2-1 loss to the Cincinnati Reds, you missed, well...nothing. And I do mean nothing, as there was little to like about the loss. I generally disregard the notion when I hear it applied to sports, but this time I'm comfortable saying it: Ted Lilly deserved better. He dazzled for seven innings, even carrying a no-hitter through the first five. I personally tend to think that the talk of a no-hitter should be saved until after six complete, but that's a story for another time. And the bullpen was solid in relief, giving the Cubs ample opportunity to steal this win.

Sadly though, two things happened. The Cubs -- and really, the Reds as well -- looked like a bunch of guys who didn't want to be there. Tired, uninspired, and yes; even bored. The whole thing had a classic dog days of summer feel about it. The Cubs finished with three hits; two by Mark DeRosa, whose great catches and multi-hit game were about the only bright spot with that offense.

The other thing? Take a guess. Here, I'll give you a hint. 2-1, 2-0, 3-2, 3-2, 3-0, 2-0, 2-1, and 2-1. If there is one complaint that I have with Lou Piniella, it's that he refuses to take the bat out his players' hands at times to the point of insanity. Now I realize that the quality of pitching is such that you'll have games like this; get good outings consistently, and you'll have a fair share of these low scoring games. And I appreciate that these are some good hitters. But when the late innings roll around, and your offense isn't clicking, do something. Steal a base. Lay down a bunt. Acknowledge the fact that you're probably going to have to manufacture something. Seriously. And Kosuke Fukudome? My friend, it's one thing when he's not hitting, but driving the ball. It's entirely different when you're hitting weak, two-bounce grounders for outs. Josh Fogg has been moved up a day, and brings his 7.71 ERA to the mound. It might be a good time to insert Mike Fontenot, and give Kosuke a day or two off. Just saying.