Milton Bradley's Wrigley Debut Is Short-Lived

The Cubs dropped the opener of their four-game series against the hated Cardinals on Thursday afternoon by a score of 7-4, and although the game featured a couple reoccurring trends that Cubs fans should be concerned about -- the bullpen failing to hold another lead, inability to hit with runners in scoring position -- the real story of the day came from a pinch-hitting appearance by Milton Bradley.

The Cubs weren't sure that Bradley would be able to play in this series thanks to some groin issues, but there he was walking up to the plate with the bases loaded and the score tied at 4-4 in the sixth inning.  What a perfect chance for Bradley to say hello to his new hometown fans by knocking in some runs to give the Cubs the lead.

Unfortunately, that's not the way it worked out.  After getting ahead in the count 3-0, Bradley then watched three straight pitches cross the plate and struck out.  Of course, Bradley didn't agree with home plate umpire Larry Vanover's calls, and he let him know about it.  Vanover then showed Bradley how much he appreciated his thoughts and criticisms by throwing him out of the game.

Welcome to Wrigley Field, Mr Bradley!

Cubs fans have truly seen what Milton Bradley brings to the table in his first half-month with the team.  He's already injured his groin, and he's already been ejected from a game after staring at seven straight pitches.  All that's left for Bradley to do is start chucking bases and helmets across the diamond.

If he does nothing else, at least he makes losses more entertaining.

Along with writing for NBCCHICAGO.com, Tom Fornelli can also be found contributing at FanHouse, SPORTSbyBROOKS, and his own Chicago sports blog Foul Balls.  He's hoping Milton's first swing isn't directed at him.