A press release just arrived from the Chicago Cubs stating that Lou Pinella would begin his retiremet immediately after today's gave against the Braves.  Mike Quade will take over for the remainder of the season.

From the Cubs press release:  “When I previously announced my intentions to retire at the end of the season, a primary reason for my decision was that it would allow me to spend more valuable time with my family,” said Piniella.  “That time has unfortunately gotten here sooner than I could have ever expected.  As many know, the several weeks since that announcement was made have been very difficult on a family level, requiring two leaves of absence from the club.  While I fully intended to manage this club the rest of the season, a family situation at home now requires my full attention.

“As I said last month, I couldn’t be more appreciative of the Cubs organization for providing me the opportunity to be their manager.  I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything in the world and I consider this the ultimate way to end my managerial career. "

Again, from another Cubs press release:  The Chicago Cubs today named Mike Quade manager of the major league club for the rest of the 2010 season, starting with tomorrow’s game at Washington.  Quade becomes the 51st manager in franchise history.  The remainder of the coaching staff will remain intact and corresponding coaching assignment announcements are forthcoming.

Quade, 53, is in his eighth season in the Cubs organization.  Prior to his time on Lou Piniella’s major league staff as third base and outfield coach starting with the 2007 campaign, Quade spent the previous four seasons as manager of Chicago’s Triple-A Iowa affiliate (2003-06).  He guided the I-Cubs to a 289-279 mark, a pair of first-place finishes and one appearance in the Pacific Coast League Championship Series (2004).