Derrek Lee Update
Derrek Lee did not play in Game 1 today and won't play in Game 2 as he nurses a sore left shoulder. The diagnosis is simply joint inflammation, so it's nothing serious, but the Cubs don't want to take any chances with their best player not feeling well. It's possible Derrek could be back in the lineup Friday night in Florida. One of the questions posed to Derrek yesterday was, will he compete in the All-Star Game. His answer was, "I hope to be in the lineup tomorrow!" It will be interesting to see what Derrek decides to do if the shoulder continues to bother him. Considering it's his first All-Star Game and the fact that he was elected to start, you know he'll do what he can to participate. However, if the shoulder continues to be an issue, he's going to have to make a tough decision. Maybe in the end he tells Tony LaRussa he can give him one AB and a couple innings in the field and that's it Tuesday. The bottom line though is that he will look at how this thing will affect him to start the second half. You know he won't take any unnecessary chances in order to play in an exhibition game, even though it's the All-Star Game. Let's hope he's back in there this weekend in Florida and he's good to go Tuesday and beyond. The offense needs its leader right now for sure.
Len