--C Geovany Soto, who hit two three-run homers Wednesday, ended April batting .333 with five homers and 20 RBIs. Soto's RBI total was the highest for a Cubs rookie since 1956, topping the 14 Hee Seop Choi had 14 in 2003. Soto put up those big numbers despite striking out in eight consecutive at-bats in Washington last weekend.
--Speculation is rife over whom the Cubs will send out Thursday when they activate LF Alfonso Soriano from the 15-day disabled list. The logical choice would be OF Matt Murton, who has played sparingly since his call-up when Soriano went on the DL. However, if the Cubs feel CF Felix Pie needs to play every day somewhere, he could be the one to go. --1B Derrek Lee hit his eighth home run of the year Tuesday night. It tied a team record for April (Sammy Sosa in 2000 and 2002, and Lee Walls in 1958). Lee did not hit his eighth home run last year until July 17.
--The Cubs ended March/April having drawn 130 walks. It's the most for a "month" since the 1985 club drew 129 in September-October. It's reflective of the new, patient approach Cubs hitters have taken this year.
--3B Aramis Ramirez drew three walks Tuesday, tying a career high. Ramirez has 18 walks this season. His career best is 50, in 2006.
--INF Ronny Cedeno came in to Wednesday's game late but managed three RBIs. He ended April batting .378 with 16 RBIs in limited action. He could end up pushing Ryan Theriot for playing time at shortstop.
BY THE NUMBERS: 4.56 -- Number of pitches per plate appearance seen by RF Kosuke Fukudome entering this week. It led the NL, but more important for the Cubs, it seems to have rubbed off on this once-free-swinging team as several players are exhibiting more patience at the plate.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "We just need our guys here to get better, and I'm fairly confident they will." -- Manager Lou Piniella, on his struggling bullpen.
