Cubs Roundup, Sept 23: Coomer's Career, Playoff Struggles, 2023 Recap

[North Side Baseball]

Here is some of the latest Cubs analysis and history from around the internet. Ron Coomer's career insights, a 1908 Cubs-Giants game controversy, and concerns over the team's pitching struggles and playoff outlook are highlighted.

• Ron Coomer Tackles a Challenging Career Quiz (FanGraphs). Argues Ron Coomer, a former Cubs player and current analyst, faced Chuck Finley 45 times, hit .262 against him, and learned a lesson from a key strikeout. Notes he also had notable stats against David Wells, James Baldwin, and Randy Johnson, with Pedro Martínez as his toughest pitcher.
• Chicago Cubs history unpacked — September 23 (Bleed Cubbie Blue). Revisits a pivotal 1908 Cubs-Giants game where a controversial umpire ruling led to a tie, with Fred Merkle's error costing the Giants a win and impacting their playoff chances.
• Cubs Slapped With Concerning Outlook With Playoffs Looming (yardbarker.com). Argues Cubs' pitching struggles persist despite playoff chances, citing 4.16 ERA, 1,219 strikeouts, and high HR allowed. Ottavino highlights lack of swing-and-miss, with injuries and an unsettled closer adding risk.