Cubs | Soriano receives a breather

The Associated Press reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano received the day off Friday, July 31.

Soriano was given the day off on Friday, MLBlogs reports.

Soriano was given the day off on Friday, MLBlogs reports. [...]

Talented Mr. Roto: Target these players

Matthew Berry prepares for the final two months of the season with players to target in trade talks or on free agency, like Alfonso Soriano, to help win fantasy leagues.

Soriano went 1-for-3 with a three-run homer in Wednesday's win

Soriano went 1-for-3 with a three-run homer in Wednesday's win over the Astros. [...]

ItÂ’s been quite the resurgent month for Soriano, who has raised

ItÂ’s been quite the resurgent month for Soriano, who has raised his average over 20 points since the start of July. The left fielder is also finally showing the power production that owners expected all season with three home runs and nine RBIs in his last five games.

Soriano popping off in second half

News: The Cubs sent 10 batters to the plate in the first Wednesday, with Alfonso Soriano's homer breaking open the game. The former leadoff man with the $136 million contract has settled in nicely as Chicago's No. 6 hitter. Batting sixth exclusively the past 12 games, he has a .383 average with five homers and 15 RBI, including Monday's 13th-inning grand slam. [...]

Cubs | Soriano homers Wednesday

The Associated Press reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano hit a three-run home run in a winning effort Wednesday, July 29. He is hitting .383 with five home runs and 15 RBIs while hitting exclusively sixth in the lineup for the last 12 games. Soriano now has 19 long balls on the year.

Soriano hits another bomb as Cubs roll

Two days after ending a game with a grand slam, Alfonso Soriano decided to set the tone instead, clubbing a three-run first inning home run, as the Cubs went on to clobber Houston 12-0.

Our View: Soriano's two homers two weekends ago could be written off because they came against the Nationals--his three homers and 10 RBI since can't, however. After seeing his average dip as low as .223 on the Fourth of July, he is back up to .251, and has been reinvigorated by being dropped in the lineup. If you benched him during his epic slump, it's definitely time to be starting him without hesitation every day again.

MLB’s Missing the YouTube Boat

MLB vs NBA: Awesome moment in baseball last night - Alfonso Soriano drills a walk-off grand slam to centerfield in the 13th and much showboating followed. He posed as the ball majestically rose to center. He pointed at his wife and kids in the front row. And then, just before he was rounding third base

Cubs | Soriano hits walkoff slam

The Associated Press reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano hit a walkoff grand slam in the 13th inning Monday, July 27.

Alfonso Soriano launched a walk-off grand slam in the bottom

Alfonso Soriano launched a walk-off grand slam in the bottom of the 13th to push the Cubs past the Astros 5-1 on Monday night. The game lived up to its billing as a pitcher's duel, with Wandy Rodriguez and Carlos Zambrano each hurling seven one-run innings, and then the two bullpens continued to battle into extra innings. [...]

Soriano hit a grand slam in the bottom of the 13th inning to

Soriano hit a grand slam in the bottom of the 13th inning to beat Houston on Monday. The homer was his only hit in six at-bats. [...]

Soriano hits walk-off grand slam

News: Alfonso Soriano redeemed himself for an earlier mental miscue by hitting a game-ending grand slam in the 13th inning to lead the Chicago Cubs past the Houston Astros 5-1 on Monday night. Reliever Chris Sampson gave up a leadoff walk on four pitches to Derrek Lee in the 13th, and Aramis Ramirez followed with a single to put runners on first and third. After an intentional walk to Milton Bradley loaded the bases, Soriano followed with a long homer -- his fourth career slam -- over the center-field wall to end it. Soriano finished 1 for 6 with three strikeouts and is batting .252. [...]

Soriano's slam wins it for Cubs in 13th

Alfonso Soriano redeemed himself for an earlier mental miscue by hitting a game-ending grand slam in the 13th inning to lead the Chicago Cubs past the Houston Astros 5-1 on Monday night.

Soriano carries Cubs in win

Alfonso Soriano carried the Cubs in tonight's 5-1 victory over the Astros at Wrigley Field, as he went 1-for-6 with a grand slam in the bottom of the 13th inning.

Our View: Soriano launched his 18th homer of 2009, and is 12 away from 300 for his career. He is riding a 10-game hitting streak, with 12 RBI over the span.

Soriano has been searing during a nine-game hitting streak,

Soriano has been searing during a nine-game hitting streak, going 16-for-36 with three homers and eight RBIs. After a very poor first three months and change, the veteran left fielder has used the fiery stretch to pull his average up more than 20 points to .253. With 17 long balls, heÂ’s on track for another 25-plus homer campaign, but heÂ’ll need to keep raking at a steady clip throughout the stretch run if he hopes to approach his career average of .280.

Soriano went 3-for-4 with a homer Saturday.

Soriano went 3-for-4 with a homer Saturday. [...]

Cubs | Soriano gets three hits Saturday

Carrie Muskat, of MLB.com, reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano went 3-for-4 with a solo home run Saturday, July 25. He is batting .371 when in the sixth spot in the lineup.

Soriano leaves ballpark for 17th time

News: Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano went yard for the 17th time this season in the 5th inning of Saturday's win over the Reds. Soriano hit a solo blast and finished the game 3 for 4 with two other singles. He's hitting .251 for the year. [...]

Alfonso Soriano was 3-for-4 with a solo home run in a win over

Alfonso Soriano was 3-for-4 with a solo home run in a win over the Reds on Saturday afternoon. He is batting .438 with three homers and seven RBI since the All-Star break. [...]

His power groove is in full effect. Soriano has slammed three

His power groove is in full effect. Soriano has slammed three homers during his eight-game hitting streak during which he's gone 14-for-32 (.438) with seven RBIs. Soriano has always enjoyed hitting in July, as his career .285 batting average and .534 slugging percentage represent the second-best and best marks, respectively, of any month in his career.

Soriano homers, knocks three hits

Alfonso Soriano had a three-hit day for the Cubs on Saturday in their 5-3 win over the Reds. Soriano went 3-for-4 with a home run, a run scored, and an RBI in the game.

Our View: Soriano may be starting to heat up a bit, and the Cubs desperately need him to do so if they are going to stay in the playoff hunt. It may be too early to say he is back, but Soriano owners at least have a reason to be optimistic at this point.

Soriano picks up three base hits

News: Cubs LF Alfonso Soriano picked up three hits on Monday night against the Phillies when no other Cub had more than one base knock. He went 3 for 4 with three singles to improve his batting average to .244. [...]

Soriano went 2-for-3 with a walk and a two-run homer Sunday,

Soriano went 2-for-3 with a walk and a two-run homer Sunday, his second in the last two games. [...]

Soriano went 2-for-3 with a walk and a two-run homer Sunday,

Soriano went 2-for-3 with a walk and a two-run homer Sunday, his second in the last two games. [...]

Cubs' seven-run frame secures sweep

Alfonso Soriano smacked his second homer in as many days to spark a seven-run fourth and Jake Fox added a three-run shot to power the Cubs to an 11-3 victory and a sweep of the Nats on Sunday.

Cubs | Soriano homers Sunday

The Associated Press reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano was 2-for-3 with a home run, two RBIs and a run scored Sunday, July 19. The home run was his 16th of the year.

That’s homers in back-to-back games for Soriano since a 29-game

That’s homers in back-to-back games for Soriano since a 29-game power drought. After beginning the season with a bang (.284-7-14 in April), the multi-talented left fielder ran into the proverbial brick wall. However, it appears he used the All-Star break to gather himself, which should bode well for a guy who’s averaged 16 homers and nine thefts over the last two second halves.

Soriano homers on consecutive days

News: Cubs LF Alfonso Soriano smacked his 16th home run on Sunday in an easy win over Washington. Soriano blasted a two-run job in the 4th inning off starter Garrett Mock. He finished 2 for 3 on the day and added a walk. Soriano is batting .238 on the year. [...]

Alfonso Soriano homered for a second straight day when he took

Alfonso Soriano homered for a second straight day when he took Nationals starter Garrett Mock deep on Sunday. Just what a hitter needs to get out of a slump, the Nationals' pitching staff. [...]

Soriano homers again as Cubs roll

Alfonso Soriano homered for the second straight game on Sunday, as the Cubs routed the Nationals 11-3.

Our View: Signs of life, or signs of playing the Nationals? Soriano owners would surely like to know. Unfortunately, it might be the latter, as he has looked completely lost at the plate lately, and the Nationals have one of the worst pitching staffs in recent memory. Don't declare him out of his slump until you see him produce against some better teams.

Cubs' seven-run frame secures sweep

Alfonso Soriano smacked his second homer in as many days to spark a seven-run fourth and Jake Fox added a three-run shot to power the Cubs to an 11-3 victory Sunday and complete a sweep of the Nats.

Big 4th inning gives Cubs sweep of Nationals

Alfonso Soriano's two-run homer keyed a seven-run fourth inning and the Chicago Cubs completed a four-game sweep of the Washington Nationals with an 11-3 victory Sunday.

Fuld optioned

Sam Fuld has been optioned back to Triple-A Iowa.

Our View: Fuld has gone 7-for-19 in the majors this season, but with the balky contracts of Alfonso Soriano, Kosuke Fukudome and Milton Bradley clogging up the Cubs outfield, he got very few opportunities to play.

Soriano back in lineup, goes deep

News: Alfonso Soriano hit a go-ahead three-run homer in the sixth, connecting for the first time in almost six weeks, and the Cubs held on for a 6-5 victory over the Nationals on Saturday night. Soriano sent a first-pitch slider from rookie right-hander Jordan Zimmermann over the wall in right-center, erasing a 4-2 Washington lead. It was the 15th homer -- and first since June 7, a span of 121 at-bats -- for Soriano, who missed Friday night's game with a swollen right pinkie finger. [...]

Soriano (finger) hit a three-run home run Saturday against the

Soriano (finger) hit a three-run home run Saturday against the Nationals after missing Friday's contest. [...]

Soriano swats 15th homer

Alfonso Soriano went 1-for-4 with a three-run homer off Jordan Zimmermann in tonight's 6-5 win at Washington.

Our View: Soriano collected his first homer of July, and his 15th of the season. His ailing right pinkie did not seem to bother him tonight, evidenced by his solid performance.

To think that on Friday, Soriano couldn't even grip a bit. The

To think that on Friday, Soriano couldn't even grip a bit. The slugging dual-threat made a resounding return to the fold after missing his prior game after dislocating his right finger on July 17. Soriano has his work cut out for him in order to repair the damage done by an underwhelming -- by his lofty standards -- first half. Considering that he has socked at least 29 homers in every season since he smacked 28 in '04, it wouldn't be wise to bet against the slugging outfielder.

Alfonso Soriano blasted a three-run homer in the sixth inning

Alfonso Soriano blasted a three-run homer in the sixth inning Saturday to help his Cubs defeat the Nationals 6-5. Soriano missed Friday's game after jamming his pinkie finger on a dive back to first base Thursday. [...]

Soriano ends homer drought in Cubs' 6-5 victory

Alfonso Soriano hit a go-ahead three-run homer in the sixth, connecting for the first time in almost six weeks, and the Chicago Cubs held on for a 6-5 victory over the Washington Nationals on Saturday night.

Soriano's three-run shot gives Cubs win

Alfonso Soriano smacked a go-ahead three-run homer, his first in more than a month, Mike Fontenot added a solo shot and Ryan Theriot hit a two-run triple to lift the Cubs to a 6-5 victory Saturday night over the Washington Nationals.

Cubs | Soriano in lineup Saturday

Paul Sullivan, of the Chicago Tribune, reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano (pinkie) was in the starting lineup Saturday, July 18. Soriano dislocated his pinkie Thursday, July 16.

Finally some good news for Soriano, who is (not) enjoying one

Finally some good news for Soriano, who is (not) enjoying one of his worst full seasons in the Majors this year, hitting .234 with 14 homers and 33 RBIs. Still, a struggling Soriano is still better than most alternatives, so make sure to throw him back into your starting unit stat.

Alfonso Soriano is back in the lineup two days after dislocating

Alfonso Soriano is back in the lineup two days after dislocating his right pinkie finger. Soriano sat out Friday's game after jamming his finger on a dive back to first base on Thursday. [...]

Soriano in lineup

As expected, Alfonso Soriano is in the Cubs' lineup for tonight's game at Washington, according to the Chicago Tribune. He will start in his regular spot in left field.

Our View: The swelling on his ailing right pinkie has gone down enough for him to get the green light to return. Soriano noted that the pain is almost gone and he should be fine to pencil into fantasy lineups.

Soriano in lineup

As expected, Alfonso Soriano is in the Cubs' lineup for tonight's game at Washington, according to the Chicago Tribune. He will start in his regular spot in left field.

Our View: The swelling on his ailing right pinkie has gone down enough for him to get the green light to return. He noted that the pain is almost gone and he should be fine to pencil into fantasy lineups.

Soriano (finger) is in the starting lineup on Saturday, the

Soriano (finger) is in the starting lineup on Saturday, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Alfonso Soriano is back in the lineup two days after dislocating

Alfonso Soriano is back in the lineup two days after dislocating his right pinkie finger. Soriano missed Friday's game with the injury. "The swelling went down and the pain is almost gone, so I'm ready to play," Soriano said. [...]

Soriano playing Saturday

Alfonso Soriano does not have a dislocated right finger, according to ESPN Chicago.

Our View: Soriano jammed his finger diving into first base on Thursday night. He missed the team's game against the Nationals on Friday when it was too swollen to grip a bat, but he is expected to be in the lineup tonight and Sunday.

Alfonso Soriano does not have a dislocated finger, reports ESPN

Alfonso Soriano does not have a dislocated finger, reports ESPN Chicago. Soriano sat out Friday's game after jamming his finger on a dive back to first base on Thursday. [...]

Soriano said he'll play with pain in his dislocated finger as

Soriano said he'll play with pain in his dislocated finger as long as the swelling goes down enough for him to grip a bat again, the Chicago Sun-Times reports. He said he anticipated missing only one game. But manager Lou Piniella said he thought it might take a few days. Said Soriano: "When I woke up [Friday] morning, it was very [swollen]. I don't have power in my hand because I cannot grip the bat.'' [...]

Alfonso Soriano is sitting out Friday after jamming his finger

Alfonso Soriano is sitting out Friday after jamming his finger on a dive back to first base Thursday night. Micah Hoffpauir is in left field and batting sixth. [...]

Cubs LF Soriano out with swollen right pinkie

Chicago Cubs left fielder Alfonso Soriano says he dislocated a finger and isn't sure when he'll return to the lineup.

Cubs | Soriano may be out for a few days

Paul Sullivan, of The Chicago Tribune, reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano (finger) could miss a few games after dislocating his right pinkie finger Thursday, July 16. Soriano's finger is swollen and he is having trouble gripping a bat.

Soriano out of lineup Friday

News: The Chicago Tribune reports that Micah Hoffpauir was listed in the Cubs lineup in left field for Friday's game against Washington, with Alfonso Soriano on the bench. Soriano jammed a finger in Thursday's game diving back to first base. [...]

Alfonso Soriano is sitting out Friday after jamming his finger

Alfonso Soriano is sitting out Friday after jamming his finger on a dive back to first base Thursday night. Micah Hoffpauir is in left field and batting sixth. [...]

Soriano out with jammed finger

The Chicago Tribune is reporting that Cubs' outfielder Alfonso Soriano is not in the team's lineup for their Friday night game against the Nationals due to a jammed finger. He will be replaced in the outfield by Micah Hoffpauir.

Our View: Soriano jammed his finger last night while diving into first base, but it doesn't look serious. The team is just being cautious tonight, so fantasy owners should get him out if you can tonight and check back for his status for the weekend. NL-only leaguers who have Hoffpauir should also get him in tonight if possible.

Cubs | Soriano not in lineup Friday

Paul Sullivan, of The Chicago Tribune, reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano (finger) is not in the lineup Friday, July 17, after jamming his finger diving back to first base Thursday, July 16. 1B Micah Hoffpauir will replace Soriano in left field Friday.

Soriano jammed a finger during Thursday night's game and is

Soriano jammed a finger during Thursday night's game and is not in Friday's starting lineup, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

A fine ending to what has been an otherwise dreary first half

A fine ending to what has been an otherwise dreary first half for the superstar outfielder who has been shuffled around the Cubs' lineup recently -- he hit third on Sunday -- in a bid to snap him out of his prolonged funk. Soriano's .235 average and .418 slugging percentage represent major downturns in both categories as the 33-year-old was not selected for the Midsummer Classic for the first time since his rookie campaign of 2001.

Cubs recall Fuld

The Cubs have called Sam Fuld back up to take the roster spot of the injured Geovany Soto, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Our View: Fuld had four hits in 11 at-bats during his previous call-up this season. He shouldn't get enough playing time in the Cubs' outfield, even with Alfonso Soriano and Milton Bradley struggling, to warrant any fantasy consideration.

Slumping Soriano aims to clear mind

Sometimes, you can think too much. Alfonso Soriano says that may be what's happening to him lately. The Cubs' left fielder is trying to deal with a slump that has lasted longer than he's ever experienced.

Soriano was in the lineup Friday after not playing Wednesday,

Soriano was in the lineup Friday after not playing Wednesday, the Chicago Sun-Times reports. He had a double in three at-bats Friday, giving him a 6-for-19 stretch in the last five games. He said he's feeling better mentally, though his left knee is not completely healed. [...]

Soriano is back in the lineup batting sixth Friday after he

Soriano is back in the lineup batting sixth Friday after he was benched Wednesday, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Soriano is back in the lineup batting and sixth Friday after

Soriano is back in the lineup batting and sixth Friday after he was benched Wednesday, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Alfonso Soriano was upset about not being informed he was going

Alfonso Soriano was upset about not being informed he was going to be out of the lineup on Wednesday. "That's a surprise to me today," Soriano said. [...]

Cubs | Soriano unhappy with benching

The Chicago Tribune's Paul Sullivan reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano was out of the lineup for the third time in eight games Wednesday, July 8, and isn't happy with manager Lou Piniella. Piniella typically gives Soriano a heads-up when he will get a day off but declined to do so this time. "That's why I'm mad," Soriano said. "If he had told me yesterday, then I wouldn't come today ready to play."

Soriano said he was upset about not being told he would sit

Soriano said he was upset about not being told he would sit Wednesday, the chicao Tribune reports. [...]

On Wednesday, Tim Lincecum was named Major League Baseball Clutch

On Wednesday, Tim Lincecum was named Major League Baseball Clutch Performer of the Month for June.

Analysis: Jake Fox started in left field and hit sixth. Soriano, who’s hitting .230 with 14 home runs and seven stolen bases, did not play from July 1-2 and then moved from his customary leadoff spot to the six-hole before the team’s July 4 game. He’s 5-for-16 since the switch, and both the left fielder and skipper Lou Pinella sounded amenable to keeping him in the middle of the order indefinitely following Monday’s game. Soriano clearly needed some type of change to jump-start his bat. Though the move down in the order may mean fewer stolen bases, it should make for more RBI opportunities.

Alfonso Soriano was not in the Cubs starting lineup Wednesday.

Alfonso Soriano was not in the Cubs starting lineup Wednesday.

Analysis: Jake Fox started in left field and hit sixth. Soriano, who’s hitting .230 with 14 home runs and seven stolen bases, did not play from July 1-2 and then moved from his customary leadoff spot to the six-hole before the team’s July 4 game. He’s 5-for-16 since the switch, and both the left fielder and skipper Lou Pinella sounded amenable to keeping him in the middle of the order indefinitely following Monday’s game. Soriano clearly needed some type of change to jump-start his bat. Though the move down in the order may mean fewer stolen bases, it should make for more RBI opportunities.

Alfonso Soriano was not in the Cubs starting lineup Wednesday.

Alfonso Soriano was not in the Cubs starting lineup Wednesday.

Analysis: Jake Fox started in left field and hit sixth. Soriano, who’s hitting .230 with 14 home runs and seven stolen bases, was given two days off July 1-2 and then moved from his leadoff spot to the six-hole before the team’s July 4 game. He’s 5-for-16 since the switch, and both the left fielder and skipper Lou Pinella sounded amenable to keeping him in the middle of the order indefinitely following Monday’s game. Soriano clearly needed some type of change to jump-start his bat. Though the move down in the order may mean fewer stolen bases, it should make for more RBI opportunities.

Soriano is not in the starting lineup on Wednesday afternoon

Soriano is not in the starting lineup on Wednesday afternoon as the Cubs go with Jake Fox in left field, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Soriano out Wednesday

The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that Cubs' outfielder Alfonso Soriano is not in the team's lineup for their Wednesday afternoon game against the Braves. Soriano is getting the day off in preparation for the big weekend series against the division-leading Cardinals.

Our View: No injury here, just a day off so Soriano is well rested for the Cards' series. He had a nice night on Tuesday, and with the day game today it was an intelligent move by Pinella.

Soriano gets two hits, but Cubs lose

Alfonso Soriano went 2-for-4 on Tuesday night, raising his average to .230, but the Cubs fell to the Braves 2-1.

Our View: Soriano was again batting in the six spot on Tuesday, but the move didn't pay off since no other Cubs could get a hit off Javier Vazquez. The return of Aramis Ramirez could help wake up Soriano's bat, and there is no way he could be as bad in the second half of the season as he was in the first. He is a good candidate to buy-low right now.

The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano,

News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano, who batted somewhere other than the leadoff spot Monday for the first time in his Chicago career, might be stuck down the order permanently. "That's fine," Soriano said, "as long as we play like we're playing. If the team hits better, and we start winning, that's fine." [...]

Soriano will remain in the six-hole for the time being, the

Soriano will remain in the six-hole for the time being, the Chicago Sun-Times reports. [...]

Cubs activate Johnson from DL

As expected, the Cubs activated Reed Johnson (back) from the DL on Monday, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

Our View: Johnson should return right back to his utility role in the outfield, platooning with Kosuke Fukudome in center and getting most of the starts against lefties, and also spelling the currently struggling Alfonso Soriano and Milton Bradley in left and right. With that said, Johnson should probably be rostered in most NL-only leagues but will not get quite enough at-bats to provide mixed-league value.

Cubs activate Johnson from DL

As expected, the Cubs activated Reed Johnson(back) from the DL on Monday, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

Our View: Johnson should return right back to his utility role in the outfield, platooning with Kosuke Fukudome in center and getting most of the starts against lefties, and also spelling the currently struggling Alfonso Soriano and Milton Bradley in left and right. With that said, Johnson should probably be rostered in most NL-only leagues but will not get quite enough at-bats to provide mixed-league value.

Alfonso Soriano singled twice in four at-bats on Sunday.

Alfonso Soriano singled twice in four at-bats on Sunday.

Analysis: Soriano looked fine in just his second game at the No. 6 spot. He went hitless in four at-bats, with two strikeouts, on Saturday, although it might take a few games for the ex-leadoff hitter to truly feel comfortable at his new position in the lineup.

Cubs | Soriano's struggles continue

Andrew Seligman, of The Associated Press, reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts Saturday, July 4. He has gone hitless in his last 16 at-bats.

Soriano dropped to sixth in order

According to MLB.com, Cubs' manager Lou Pinella has decided to move Alfonso Soriano down from his leadoff spot in the order. Soriano is hitting sixth on Saturday, while Kosuke Fukudome takes over the leadoff duties.

Our View: Soriano has been mired is a season-long slump, and his average is at .226. The Cubs finally decided they can't have a leadoff hitter who doesn't get on base, so the move was made. Maybe this will light a fire under Soriano, and he should have more RBI opportunities hitting in the six-hole.

Soriano dropped to sixth in order

According to MLB.com, Cubs' manager Lou Pinella has decided to move Alfonso Soriano down from his leadoff spot in the order. Soriano is hitting sixth on Saturday, while Kosuke Fukudome took over leadoff duties.

Our View: Soriano has been mired is a season-long slump, and his average is at .226. The Cubs finally decided they can't have a leadoff hitter who doesn't get on base, so the move was made. Maybe this will light a fire under Soriano, and he should have more RBI opportunities hitting in te six-hole.

Soriano moved out of leadoff spot

Alfonso Soriano, batting .226 overall and .173 in his past 36 games, was dropped from the top spot in the Cubs' order to sixth and replaced by Kosuke Fukudome in the one-hole on Saturday vs. the Brewers.

Alfonso Soriano is batting sixth in Saturday's lineup. Kosuke

Alfonso Soriano is batting sixth in Saturday's lineup. Kosuke Fukudome is at the top of the order. "Sixth is fine," Soriano said Saturday upon hearing the news. [...]

Soriano was dropped to sixth in the order for Saturday's game

Soriano was dropped to sixth in the order for Saturday's game against the Brewers, the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports. [...]

Alfonso Soriano could be bumped from the leadoff spot Saturday.

Alfonso Soriano could be bumped from the leadoff spot Saturday. "We'll probably make some adjustments in our lineup [Saturday],'' manager Lou Piniella said when asked about Soriano's continuing struggles. [...]

Manager Lou Piniella said he would tweak the Cubs' lineup before

Manager Lou Piniella said he would tweak the Cubs' lineup before Saturday's game, and he hinted at moving Soriano down in the order, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Cubs | Lineup changes could be coming

Carrie Muskat, of MLB.com, reports Chicago Cubs manager Lou Piniella hinted Friday, July 3, that lineup changes could be coming for Game 3 of a four-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers. OF Alfonso Soriano could be moved down in the order with OF Sam Fuld moving into the leadoff spot. OF Kosuke Fukudome may be moved to right field and OF Milton Bradley might be benched. Bradley is batting .195 from the left side of the plate.

Struggling Alfonso Soriano returned to the Cubs lineup Friday

News: Struggling Alfonso Soriano returned to the Cubs lineup Friday against Milwaukee after missing two games. He went 0 for 5 and is in an 0 for 12 slide. [...]

Soriano returns, struggles

Alfonso Soriano returned to action for the Cubs on Friday and promptly went 0-for-5.

Our View: Soriano was given a couple days off due to his recent struggles. The former fantasy stalwart has been miserable lately. He's zero for his last 12 and hasn't homered since June 7th.

Cubs | Soriano hitless Friday

The Associated Press reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano went 0-for-5 Friday, July 3, and is in an 0-for-12 slump.

Back in the lineup after two days off, Alfonso Soriano went

Back in the lineup after two days off, Alfonso Soriano went 0-for-5 as the Cubs' leadoff hitter Friday. Soriano has been terrible, but it's not like the Cubs can bench him in favor of Sam Fuld for any length of time. [...]

Soriano is back in the lineup against Brewers starter Jeff Suppan

Soriano is back in the lineup against Brewers starter Jeff Suppan on Friday, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Soriano is back in the lineup against Brewers starter Jeff Suppan

Soriano is back in the lineup against Brewers starter Jeff Suppan on Friday, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Soriano returns to lineup Friday

The Chicago Tribune is reporting that Cubs' outfielder Alfonso Soriano is back in the team's lineup Friday after being benched for two games to clear his head. He will replace Sam Fuld, who started in his place for the last two games.

Our View: Maybe the rest will do Soriano some good, but it seems unlikely. If you have another option in the outfield, it would probably be wise to sit Soriano until he shows he can contribute. He is hittng only .230 on the year.

Cubs | Soriano back in lineup

The Chicago Tribune's Paul Sullivan reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano is back in the lineup Friday, July 3, after two days off.

Alfonso Soriano is back in the Cubs' lineup Friday. Soriano

Alfonso Soriano is back in the Cubs' lineup Friday. Soriano was handed two days off this week in an effort to break him out of his ongoing offensive slump. [...]

Analysis: A few days off certainly couldn’t hurt Soriano, who is batting .230 and is hitless in his last two games. He sports a paltry .179 average in his past 35 games. Soriano has had bad stretches before, but not for this long. "It's just timing," Soriano said. "My swing is good, and it's just my timing. I'm working with [hitting coach Von Joshua] every day. I hope I come back Friday and feel better." Replacing Soriano as the left fielder and leadoff hitter was Sam Fuld, who was called up from Triple-A Iowa earlier this week.

Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano, batting only .230, got his second straight

News: Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano, batting only .230, got his second straight game off on Thursday against the Brewers and has been working with hitting coach Von Joshua. [...]

Unusual production from a Cubs LF helps Chicago win

Sam Fuld went 2-for-4 with two runs scored starting in place of Alfonso Soriano as the Cubs beat the Brewers 9-5.

Our View: Fuld is obviously not an option in any format, but Cubs fans are likely savoring the rare sight he provided Thursday: production from a North Sider left fielder.

Alex Gordon (hip) returned home to Nebraska on Friday to begin

Alex Gordon (hip) returned home to Nebraska on Friday to begin a rehab stint with the Omaha Royals, the Royals' Triple-A affiliate.

Analysis: A few days off certainly couldn’t hurt Soriano, who was batting .230 overall, and was hitless in his last two games. He sports a paltry .179 average in his past 35 games. Soriano has had bad stretches before, but not for this long. "It's just timing," Soriano said. "My swing is good, and it's just my timing. I'm working with [hitting coach Von Joshua] every day. I hope I come back Friday and feel better." Replacing Soriano as the left fielder and leadoff hitter was Sam Fuld, who was called up from Triple-A Iowa earlier this week.

Alfonso Soriano was out of the Cubs lineup for the second straight

Alfonso Soriano was out of the Cubs lineup for the second straight day to work in the batting cage, according to manager Lou Piniella. "We need Soriano to hit. Period," Piniella said.

Analysis: A few days off certainly couldn’t hurt Soriano, who was batting .230 overall, and was hitless in his last two games. He sports a paltry .179 average in his past 35 games. Soriano has had bad stretches before, but not for this long. "It's just timing," Soriano said. "My swing is good, and it's just my timing. I'm working with [hitting coach Von Joshua] every day. I hope I come back Friday and feel better." Replacing Soriano as the left fielder and leadoff hitter was Sam Fuld, who was called up from Triple-A Iowa earlier this week.

Soriano gets second day off to hone swing

Alfonso Soriano got one more day off to work on his timing. Cubs manager Lou Piniella said Thursday that he was giving the leadoff man a second day off to allow Soriano time to work in the batting cage.

Soriano is out of the lineup for the second consecutive game

Soriano is out of the lineup for the second consecutive game on Thursday, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Cubs | Soriano sitting Thursday

Paul Sullivan, of The Chicago Tribune, reports Chicago Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano is sitting the bench Thursday, July 2. OF Sam Fuld is leading off and playing left field.

Soriano is out of the lineup for the second consecutive game

Soriano is out of the lineup for the second consecutive game on Thursday, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Soriano is on the pine for the second consecutive game on Thursday,

Soriano is on the pine for the second consecutive game on Thursday, the Chicago Tribune reports. [...]

Soriano out again

Alfonso Soriano is not in the Cubs starting lineup for the second straight game on Thursday, according to the Chicago Tribune. Sam Fuld is starting in left field and leading off in his place.

Our View: Soriano has been woeful is 2009, hitting just .230 and striking out more than once a game. He has homered just twice since June 1, and driven in only nine runs in that time. He is not a great option for your starting lineup right now if you have someone on your bench to start in his place.

Alfonso Soriano will sit again Thursday. Soriano was given a

Alfonso Soriano will sit again Thursday. Soriano was given a routine day off Wednesday, but it has stretched into Thursday. There is no evidence that he's hurt, so manager Lou Piniella is likely just giving Soriano a mental break in an effort to break him out of his slump - he had a . [...]

Alfonso Soriano will sit again Thursday. Soriano was given a

Alfonso Soriano will sit again Thursday. Soriano was given a routine day off Wednesday, but it has stretched into Thursday. There is no evidence that he's hurt, so manager Lou Piniella is likely just giving Soriano a mental break in an effort to break him out of his slump - he had a . [...]

Alfonso Soriano will sit again Thursday. Soriano was given a

Alfonso Soriano will sit again Thursday. Soriano was given a routine day off Wednesday, but it has stretched into Thursday. There is no evidence that he's hurt, soSource: Chicago Tribune . [...]

Soriano got a routine day off on Wednesday. He's in a 27-for-151

Soriano got a routine day off on Wednesday. He's in a 27-for-151 (.179) slump. [...]