Cubs Postcard: 'Sweet Lou' is back

Posted February 19, 2020 12:00 am

Scot Gregor

MESA, Ariz. - If Wednesday morning was any indication, Lou Piniella is going to be a big hit on the Marquee Sports Network, the Cubs' new TV home.

The 76-year-old Piniella dropped into Cubs' camp and immediately drew a crowd of well-wishers, both in and out of uniform.

"Hi, I'm Anthony Rizzo," the Cubs' veteran first baseman said after coming up and shaking Piniella's hand before taking batting practice.

Piniella had Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant and former starting pitcher Rick Sutcliffe roaring with laughter as he told stories like the time home-plate umpire Bruce Froemming told him to hurry up his argument so he'd be on time for his dinner reservation.

Piniella, who managed 23 major-league seasons after an 18-year run as a standout player, was in the Cubs' dugout from 2007 until stepping down as manager in August of 2010.

Marquee Sports Network debuts Saturday when the Cubs open Cactus League play against the Oakland A's. Piniella is on board as a part-time analyst on pre- and postgame broadcasts.

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