Utter Domination in "Wrigley North"
Zambrano and Lilly magnificent as Cubs sweep Astros out of Milwaukee

Just a week ago things weren't looking positive for the Cubs as they dropped seven of eight. Now, everything couldn't look better.

In the mini two game set with the Houston Astros, the Cubs took advantage of all the circumstances. Playing in front of a clearly pro-Cub crowd and against a team obviously focused on the devastation at home in Houston, the Cubs pitchers mesmerized the Astros hitters.

On Sunday night, Carlos Zambrano returned to form by throwing a dominating no-hitter against Houston. Big Z threw 110 pitches while striking out ten and walking one in his most electrifying performance ever. Zambrano was hitting the gun as high as 99 mph, while displaying a devastating splitter. His performance was so incredible due to the fact that he had just returned from a 12 day lay-off following being diagnosed with shoulder tendinitis. On top of that, he didn't need any huge defensive play to keep the no-hitter going as he allowed only two balls to reach the outfield. This is the Zambrano that Cubs' fans have come to love and will look to lead them to the promise land.

Following Zambrano's masterpiece, southpaw Ted Lilly attempted to make history by throwing back-to-back no-hitters, which would of been the first time that has ever been done. Unfortunately, Lilly's no-hit bid was broken up in the seventh inning thanks to a single by Mark Loretta. Regardless, Lilly dominated as well, pitching seven strong, punching out nine and walking a single batter. The one batter Lilly allowed on base in Lance Berkman, was subsequently picked-off as Berkman was caught leaning toward second. Lilly was pulled after seven and watched as the bullpen in Jeff Samardzija, Carlos Marmol, and Bob Howry completed the one-hitter.

In the two games that reassured Cubs' nation and showed that the Cubs are back as the class of the National League, Cubs pitchers gave up one hit, one run, four walks, and struck out 20. Yes, the Astros had to play a "home-game" at "Wrigley North" in front of clearly pro-Cub crowd. Yes, the Astros seemed preoccupied with the events following Hurricane Ike and the safety of family and friends. However, the Astros were one of the hottest teams in baseball and regardless of what is going on the stats don't lie. If the Cubs starters pitch like that they will win every time, anywhere.

With the rotation back, the Cubs are once again ready to steam-roll into October. With Zambrano, Dempster, Harden and Lilly, the Cubs have the best starting rotation in baseball come October. With the bullpen, it seems the Cubs are destined for a World Series.

In my opinion, the first no-hitter since 1972 by Milt Pappas cancels out the Billy Goat and all other curses you want to throw out there. The Cubs are primed to make history and end a 100 years of heart-break...are you ready?

I know I am. Bring on October!