The most generous thing to say about the Cubs today is that, in spite of missing a golden opportunity to move to within a half game of the Astros, they’re still not out of it.

But damn the Pirates. The Cubs are fifth in the National League in ERA, and yet they’ve given up 27 runs in three games to a team that came into the series 10 under .500. Disgusting.

I had this sinking feeling the Pirates would give the Cubs trouble — the season series now stands at seven wins apiece — and now the feeling is fully sunken. The feeling is anchored at the bottom of my stomach.

Mark Prior needs to stop the bleeding tomorrow. The Cubs, indeed, probably can’t afford another loss this season. It’s one thing for the Astros to win it by just outplaying the Cubs. But for the Cubs to be so close and have it spoiled because they can’t beat the fucking Pirates?

That’s sad. Very sad.