#100: Steve “Pray for” Rain

I don’t know where my hatred for Steve Rain comes from. The guy was just doing his own thing, trying to make it in the Majors. But for some reason, I gritted my teeth and felt my blood boil every time he took the ball. Steve is not helping by not having any pictures on the internet. Instead, here is a picture puzzle describing Steve Rain:

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Am I picking on Steve Rain? Yes, damnit! 11 home runs allowed in only 64.3 career innings pitched will get you picked on! The Cubs won 67 and 65 games in Rain’s 2 years as a Cub. Coincidence? I think not.

You know how the Boston Braves used to have that saying, “Spahn, Sain, and pray for rain”? Hitters facing the Cubs had a similar one in 2000. It went, “Quevedo, Lorraine, and pray for Rain.”

Low Point: The Cubs didn’t have any “big games” during Rain’s tenure, but how about Rain’s inning against the Giants on August 25, 1999? The Cubs were already down 7-1. Rain came in facing the bottom of the Giants order. Rain managed to load the bases while collecting 2 outs. With bases loaded and 2 down facing Bonds, Rain throws a wild pitch, which allows a run to score. It’s a good move, as it takes an RBI away from Bonds when he launches a three-run homer moments later. 11-1 Giants. These are the times we remember, Steve.

Did You Know? There’s a Canadian country singer named Steve Rain whose tag line is, “When the Rain comes to play, get ready for a storm.” How did our Steve Rain not come up with this one?