If Mike Quade has learned anything in his first full season as Cubs manager, it’s that people like to offer unsolicited advice on his starting lineup.
Just as Dusty Baker was asked to play Ryan Theriot over Neifi Perez, and Lou Piniella was asked why he couldn’t get Jake Fox more at-bats, Quade now is being questioned about whether he will find playing time for Bryan LaHair at first base or in the outfield.
It’s an occupational hazard for any Cubs manager, and Quade is no different.
Except that Quade is fighting to keep his job for at least one more year, while Baker and Piniella were more established and didn’t really care what anyone said about their lineups.
Before the Cubs’ 6-3 victory over the Reds on Wednesday, Quade said he intends to give LaHair the at-bats he needs to try to prove himself.
But it was first baseman Carlos Pena who hit a three-run homer off left-hander Bill Bray in the eighth inning to snap a 3-3 tie and send the Cubs to their triumph.
“In those situations, we tend to get a little bit anxious and try to do too much,” Pena said. “So my whole role there was stay under control and try not to save the world.”
Pena didn’t save the world, but he helped give the Cubs a series victory.
Reds manager Baker opted to walk Aramis Ramirez intentionally and bring in the left-hander to face Pena, who had a .135 average against lefties. Pena hit the first pitch onto Sheffield Avenue.
Quade is being asked to play youngsters such as LaHair at the expense of veterans such as Pena. Like recent Cubs who have shown signs of power — Fox and Micah Hoffpauir — LaHair has established himself in the minor leagues but is considered too old (28) to be a prospect.
Pena has 26 home runs and 72 RBIs, but his .227 batting average has many wondering why the Cubs are inclined to bring him back. Ryan Dempster, who left with the bases loaded and a 3-1 lead only to get no decision, provided some clues.
“He has a crazy amount of picks,” he said, referring to Pena scooping up wild throws from infielders and pitchers. “He has been unbelievable. It’s not just what he does with the bat. He makes huge contributions, and he’s a great teammate. There’s not a bad word to say about him.”
Pena has been saying for months he wants to return. He’s a favorite of the Ricketts family for his character and positive attitude about the team’s direction.
“I see the desire this organization has to improve and give the city what it deserves,” he said. “I know that everyone longs to see the Cubs win. … As far as it may look at times, I see it coming.”
Twitter @PWSullivan
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