Hendry feels heat from fans: Cubs GM just as frustrated about mediocre play

CHICAGO – Cubs general manager Jim Hendry understands the frustrations of fans as the team he put together struggles, adding Thursday that any criticism for the disappointing performance should start with him.

The Cubs, the two-time defending NL Central champions, began a crucial 11-game homestand before the All-Star break against the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday night. Chicago was in fourth place, a game under .500 – not what was expected of a team with a payroll between $135 million and $140 million.

Milton Bradley, the team’s major offseason acquisition at three years and $30 million, has struggled, as has Alfonso Soriano. Fans are upset that the Cubs traded away versatile Mark DeRosa in the offseason, and that after a short stint with Cleveland, he’s ended up   with archrival St. Louis.

“I’ve heard a lot of great things said about me and written that I didn’t believe. I try not to go too far in the down column when it’s not going well,” Hendry said.

“It’s OK. I think it’s part of the job. If it doesn’t go well, it ought to start with me. ... I’m as disappointed as anybody else we’re not playing better.”

The Cubs have struggled offensively, batting just .245, and their 311 runs scored were the second fewest in the NL. All of that and the Cubs are still only 2 1/2 games out of first in the division.

“You can’t panic,” Hendry said. “And you’ve got to let the players know that as long as they give you a good effort, you’re not jumping the ship on them just because they’re not performing up to their normal standards.”

Hendry said the pressure of expectations are no greater than the ones he puts on himself.