Must Win Series

Has there ever been a more important second series of the season? With St. Loser off to a 3-0 start and with the Cubs pitching still awaiting a scheduled May deshamblization, it's hard to believe, but if the Cubs get swept this weekend, they could already be eliminated from contention for the NL Central.

What the Cubs are going to need to do is something they've only done for 6 weeks out of the last four seasons: Exceed expectations.

Given the pitching matchups of Greg Maddux vs. Jeff Suppan today, Carlos Zambrano vs. Cris Carpenter on Saturday, and Sean Marshall vs. Sidney Ponson Sunday night, expecations would be to win one or two games. They better win two. A sweep would be a nice statement, and be a big boost for young Mr. Marshall.

If the downside happens, the Cubs would be 1-4 and be trailing a 6-0 Cardinal team by 4 1/2 games after playing only 5.

They are probably going to announce Jim Hendry's contract extension on Saturday. He better pray for two wins this weekend.