Bullpen Slams Door on Colorado

Carlos Marmol and Kevin Gregg have come in for their share of criticism this season, but there was nothing to get down about in their dominating performances Saturday night against the Rockies.

Marmol entered in the bottom of the 8th with the Cubs up 6-5.  Brad Hawpe, Chris Ianetta and Garrett Atkins discovered what happens when Carlos has his control, all striking out swinging (with Ian Stewart mixing in a harmless single).  Then it was Gregg’s turn.  He took the hill in the bottom of the 9th with the Cubs still holding that same scant one-run lead, and retired Colorado 1-2-3 for a decidedly unstressful save.

There was every reason to believe Colorado would mount a rally against the Cubs – they are a scrappy bunch, and the Cubs are, well, the Cubs – but sometimes faith is rewarded.  Lou Piniella hopes these guys make a habit of lining them up and knocking them down like this.  So does Jim Hendry; he could use the vindication.