The Nationals announced that minor league pitcher Stephen Strasburg will make his long-anticipated debut June 8th when the Pirates visit Washington.
With the Nats at .500 and just 3 1/2 out in the NL East, the addition of the 21-year Strasburg will be very intriguing.
He's dominated at AA and AAA this season. He'll make one more start at AAA before his debut.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Another Idiot Umpire
I'm sure many Astros fans attended today's game at Minute Maid Park to see one of the best pitchers in team history, Roy Oswalt, throw against the Nationals. That is saying something since the Astros have a pretty good history of outstanding pitchers.
Plus, Oswalt could be traded soon so fans might not have too many more opportunities to see him pitch.
Today in the 3rd inning, Oswalt missed the outside corner on a 2-2 pitch. He turned towards the first base line and yelled.
Home plate umpire Bill Hohn took off his mask and started yelling at Oswalt. The Astros righthander yelled, "I ain't talking to you." Oswalt later said he was mad at himself.
Hohn decided to toss Oswalt from the game.
This is getting ridiculous. Umpires are throwing out guys for supposedly "showing them up." So what if a guy beefs a little bit at the ump. So what if he gives the ump an incredulous stare after a call. Why are these umpires so damn sensitive?
Not one person attended today's game in Houston to see Bill Hohn call balls and strikes. They didn't attend to watch the other three umpires work the bases. Bill Hohn completely over-reacted as umpires are prone to do these days. Because of his trigger finger, Astros fans didn't get their money's worth. Another instance where the ump thinks he's bigger than the game.
Now if Oswalt walked towards home plate and yelled obscenities at Hohn, then yes he should have been run. In this case, Hohn should have simple said to Oswalt, "knock it off and pitch", and that would have been the end of it.
To make matters worse for the Astros, the Nats won the game 14-4, highlighted by a 9-run 7th inning.
Plus, Oswalt could be traded soon so fans might not have too many more opportunities to see him pitch.
Today in the 3rd inning, Oswalt missed the outside corner on a 2-2 pitch. He turned towards the first base line and yelled.
Home plate umpire Bill Hohn took off his mask and started yelling at Oswalt. The Astros righthander yelled, "I ain't talking to you." Oswalt later said he was mad at himself.
Hohn decided to toss Oswalt from the game.
This is getting ridiculous. Umpires are throwing out guys for supposedly "showing them up." So what if a guy beefs a little bit at the ump. So what if he gives the ump an incredulous stare after a call. Why are these umpires so damn sensitive?
Not one person attended today's game in Houston to see Bill Hohn call balls and strikes. They didn't attend to watch the other three umpires work the bases. Bill Hohn completely over-reacted as umpires are prone to do these days. Because of his trigger finger, Astros fans didn't get their money's worth. Another instance where the ump thinks he's bigger than the game.
Now if Oswalt walked towards home plate and yelled obscenities at Hohn, then yes he should have been run. In this case, Hohn should have simple said to Oswalt, "knock it off and pitch", and that would have been the end of it.
To make matters worse for the Astros, the Nats won the game 14-4, highlighted by a 9-run 7th inning.
10-1, 0.78
Ubaldo Jimenez threw his second career shutout today, dominating the Giants in the Rockies 4-0 win. The Mighty Ubaldo struck out 9 while giving up 4 hits in earning his 10th win. His ERA dropped to a miniscule 0.78.
Tim Lincecum was outshined by Jimenez. The long haired Lincecum gave up 6 hits and 3 earned runs while walking 5 in 5 2/3 innings. He has struggled in his last three appearances.
When Clint Barmes delivered a 2-run base knock in the second inning I got the sense, and I'm sure many others felt the same way, that the game was OVAH. We were right.
The last 30-game winner in the Major Leagues was human slimeball Denny McLain for the Tigers in 1968. I don't think there is a realistic chance for Jimenez to win 30 but he could win in the neighborhood of 25 or so. That's a pretty good neighborhood.
Since I said that Ubaldo would likely not win 30, I should say why.
When McLain won 30, starting pitchers had more opportunities since they were in four man rotations. In his magical year of 1968, McLain made 41 starts. The most starts Jimenez has made in a season is 34. Supposing he makes 23 more starts (he's made 11 so far this season), he'd need to win 20 of those 23 games. Very unlikely. Plus, the way pitchers are on pitch counts and guarded these days, Rockies manager Jim Tracy won't take chances on burning Jimenez' arm out just for a shot to win 30. So with all that going against him, who knows? Remember it's baseball and strange things happen.
By the way, those on our Sunday night radio show and other contributors make our baseball predictions each March (www.tursports.net). Justin Adams and me picked Ubaldo to win the Cy Young Award. Looks pretty good so far but if you mention it to someone with the Rockies I'm sure they would say, "There's a long way to go." And they would be right.
Tim Lincecum was outshined by Jimenez. The long haired Lincecum gave up 6 hits and 3 earned runs while walking 5 in 5 2/3 innings. He has struggled in his last three appearances.
When Clint Barmes delivered a 2-run base knock in the second inning I got the sense, and I'm sure many others felt the same way, that the game was OVAH. We were right.
The last 30-game winner in the Major Leagues was human slimeball Denny McLain for the Tigers in 1968. I don't think there is a realistic chance for Jimenez to win 30 but he could win in the neighborhood of 25 or so. That's a pretty good neighborhood.
Since I said that Ubaldo would likely not win 30, I should say why.
When McLain won 30, starting pitchers had more opportunities since they were in four man rotations. In his magical year of 1968, McLain made 41 starts. The most starts Jimenez has made in a season is 34. Supposing he makes 23 more starts (he's made 11 so far this season), he'd need to win 20 of those 23 games. Very unlikely. Plus, the way pitchers are on pitch counts and guarded these days, Rockies manager Jim Tracy won't take chances on burning Jimenez' arm out just for a shot to win 30. So with all that going against him, who knows? Remember it's baseball and strange things happen.
By the way, those on our Sunday night radio show and other contributors make our baseball predictions each March (www.tursports.net). Justin Adams and me picked Ubaldo to win the Cy Young Award. Looks pretty good so far but if you mention it to someone with the Rockies I'm sure they would say, "There's a long way to go." And they would be right.
Ralph Kiner
In his rookie year, Ralph Kiner hit 23 home runs for the Pittsburgh Pirates. The very next season he hit 51 homers. Come on, Ralph was obviously on steroids. Wait, it was 1947. The only juice Kiner was on was orange juice. Maybe apple or pineapple juice too.
Kiner led the National League in homers 7-consecutive seasons. His back gave out on him or he would have certainly belted a lot more than the 369 homers that helped land him in the Hall of Fame.
It's funny, while I've always hated the Mets, I've always liked their broadcasters and Kiner has been broadcasting Mets games since their inception in 1962. He's still one of the Mets announcers although at the age of 87 he's cut down on his workload.
One of the great story-tellers in the game, I loved listening to him talk baseball. I even watched Kiner's Korner, the Mets post-game show. Ralph would interview the star of the game and it was so cheesy it was great. I also remember the giant microphones the Mets broadcasters used. If you saw it you know what I'm talking about.
Well, Ralph Kiner popped into my mind and I thought I'd post a short piece on one of the great sluggers and broadcasters in baseball history.
Kiner led the National League in homers 7-consecutive seasons. His back gave out on him or he would have certainly belted a lot more than the 369 homers that helped land him in the Hall of Fame.
It's funny, while I've always hated the Mets, I've always liked their broadcasters and Kiner has been broadcasting Mets games since their inception in 1962. He's still one of the Mets announcers although at the age of 87 he's cut down on his workload.
One of the great story-tellers in the game, I loved listening to him talk baseball. I even watched Kiner's Korner, the Mets post-game show. Ralph would interview the star of the game and it was so cheesy it was great. I also remember the giant microphones the Mets broadcasters used. If you saw it you know what I'm talking about.
Well, Ralph Kiner popped into my mind and I thought I'd post a short piece on one of the great sluggers and broadcasters in baseball history.
Bad Marlins, Bad...
The Marlins are offering 2 free tickets to a future game for all fans who fill out 200 All-Star ballots and vote for all eight Marlins that are listed.
Come on Florida, that's weak. Either your players make the starting lineup the proper way or they don't. This stuffing the ballot box scheme makes the organization look small.
I wonder who came up with this idea. I'm guessing it wasn't Mike Hill, the Marlins General Manager.
I saw Hill recently at Coors Field when the Marlins came to town. We exchanged pleasantries and talked about the "old days".
It was 1994 and I was in my first year announcing minor league baseball and Hill was in his second year of pro ball in the Texas Rangers organization. I was familiar with Hill prior to meeting him because he was a standout baseball and football player at Harvard and he hooked up against Army in those sports.
Hill's manager in 1994, Doug Sisson, told me, "Watch, one day Mike Hill is going to be the commissioner of baseball."
I wouldn't doubt it. Anyway, Hill is a sharp guy and one of the brightest young minds in the game. I don't think he would sign off on stuffing the All-Star ballot box.
By the way, Mike Hill and I have something in common. We both went to Harvard. He went there to get an education. I went there for a couple of hockey and basketball games.
Come on Florida, that's weak. Either your players make the starting lineup the proper way or they don't. This stuffing the ballot box scheme makes the organization look small.
I wonder who came up with this idea. I'm guessing it wasn't Mike Hill, the Marlins General Manager.
I saw Hill recently at Coors Field when the Marlins came to town. We exchanged pleasantries and talked about the "old days".
It was 1994 and I was in my first year announcing minor league baseball and Hill was in his second year of pro ball in the Texas Rangers organization. I was familiar with Hill prior to meeting him because he was a standout baseball and football player at Harvard and he hooked up against Army in those sports.
Hill's manager in 1994, Doug Sisson, told me, "Watch, one day Mike Hill is going to be the commissioner of baseball."
I wouldn't doubt it. Anyway, Hill is a sharp guy and one of the brightest young minds in the game. I don't think he would sign off on stuffing the All-Star ballot box.
By the way, Mike Hill and I have something in common. We both went to Harvard. He went there to get an education. I went there for a couple of hockey and basketball games.
Gary Coleman
I mentioned on our show last evening that I was somewhat saddened with the passing of former child actor Gary Coleman. I know a lot of people cracked on him because his temper was just as short as he was. He didn't have an easy life with health issues and various career and monetary setbacks.
Still, you had to agree that he was a pretty funny and cute kid.
While most people remember Coleman as Arnold on the TV show "Different Strokes," I remember Coleman for his role in the movie "The Kid From Left Field."
In the film, Coleman becomes the manager of the San Diego Padres and brings the team from last to first. This was a very realistic plot and Coleman was great as the kid manager. I think he would have won an academy award for his performance as Jackie Robinson Cooper but the little known rule that an actor must be bigger than the statuette prevented Coleman from winning the Oscar for best actor.
So, Gary Coleman, former movie manager of the Padres, rest in peace. He was 42.
Still, you had to agree that he was a pretty funny and cute kid.
While most people remember Coleman as Arnold on the TV show "Different Strokes," I remember Coleman for his role in the movie "The Kid From Left Field."
In the film, Coleman becomes the manager of the San Diego Padres and brings the team from last to first. This was a very realistic plot and Coleman was great as the kid manager. I think he would have won an academy award for his performance as Jackie Robinson Cooper but the little known rule that an actor must be bigger than the statuette prevented Coleman from winning the Oscar for best actor.
So, Gary Coleman, former movie manager of the Padres, rest in peace. He was 42.
Put A Fork In Them
We are nearly a third of the way through the 2010 baseball season. With more than 100 games remaining for each team, it is hard to dismiss a team for postseason contention. For example, last year at this time did anybody think the floundering Rockies would reach the post-season? A managerial change to Jim Tracy got the Rocks started on a massive hot streak that carried them to October.
So while anything is possible in baseball, I'm going to list some teams that I have mentally eliminated from contention on the 31st of May, even if they are not mathematically eliminated...yet.
In the American League, the disaster known as the Baltimore Orioles are toast. At 15-36, the O's are an embarrassment. I hope the Orioles fire manager Dave Trembley so he can enjoy the rest of his summer. It would be a mercy firing. I think he's a sharp manager but he has nothing to work with.
I would also throw the Indians and Royals into the "no chance this year" scrap heap.
I still think the White Sox can make a run and that they are a better team than they've shown so far. So while Chicago is 8-games out and just a game and a half ahead of Kansas City, I won't dismiss them yet. But the Pale Hose are on life support.
In the National League, the Diamondbacks are a mess and aren't going anywhere except to fill out their NL schedule obligations. In the Central, I have three teams that are hopeless and helpless. The Astros, Pirates and Brewers will not taste the playoffs this year. I just heard Jim Mora utter "Playoffs? I just hope we can win a game" in my head.
In the East, I have not yet buried any team, especially Washington. The surprisingly tough Nationals are just 4 games out even though they are a game under .500. Plus, it looks like Stephen Strasburg will be called up in a week or so to bolster the pitching staff. That will be a major shot in the arm for Washington. Plus, they have the first pick in the June Draft next week and will likely select Bryce Harper, the so-called "LeBron James" of baseball. Harper skipped his senior season of high school ball and dominated at the junior college level. So while Harper wouldn't help the Nats this year, the future is looking bright in Washington.
So class, in summation, you can write these teams off like you would dismiss a smelly co-worker: The Orioles, Royals and Indians in the AL and the Diamondbacks, Astros, Pirates and Brewers in the NL.
So while anything is possible in baseball, I'm going to list some teams that I have mentally eliminated from contention on the 31st of May, even if they are not mathematically eliminated...yet.
In the American League, the disaster known as the Baltimore Orioles are toast. At 15-36, the O's are an embarrassment. I hope the Orioles fire manager Dave Trembley so he can enjoy the rest of his summer. It would be a mercy firing. I think he's a sharp manager but he has nothing to work with.
I would also throw the Indians and Royals into the "no chance this year" scrap heap.
I still think the White Sox can make a run and that they are a better team than they've shown so far. So while Chicago is 8-games out and just a game and a half ahead of Kansas City, I won't dismiss them yet. But the Pale Hose are on life support.
In the National League, the Diamondbacks are a mess and aren't going anywhere except to fill out their NL schedule obligations. In the Central, I have three teams that are hopeless and helpless. The Astros, Pirates and Brewers will not taste the playoffs this year. I just heard Jim Mora utter "Playoffs? I just hope we can win a game" in my head.
In the East, I have not yet buried any team, especially Washington. The surprisingly tough Nationals are just 4 games out even though they are a game under .500. Plus, it looks like Stephen Strasburg will be called up in a week or so to bolster the pitching staff. That will be a major shot in the arm for Washington. Plus, they have the first pick in the June Draft next week and will likely select Bryce Harper, the so-called "LeBron James" of baseball. Harper skipped his senior season of high school ball and dominated at the junior college level. So while Harper wouldn't help the Nats this year, the future is looking bright in Washington.
So class, in summation, you can write these teams off like you would dismiss a smelly co-worker: The Orioles, Royals and Indians in the AL and the Diamondbacks, Astros, Pirates and Brewers in the NL.
The Best White Sox Jersey
In addition to being a "stadium" guy, I also am a "uniform" guy. That is why one of the must reads for me each week is Paul Lukas' uniwatchblog.com column.
I bring this up because I just saw a picture of the White Sox uniforms of the late 70's. You remember the collared jerseys that were un-tucked with the old style lettering don't you? I know many people will talk about the shorts they wore with those uniform tops but they only wore the gimmicky shorts for three games. They wore the old style jerseys from 1976-1981.
I loved those uniforms the White Sox sported and I wish they would bring them back. I thought they looked sharp, were unique and paid homage to the turn of the century uniforms that sported collars. Unfortunately, I think I'm the only one who liked those uni's besides Bill Veeck the White Sox owner at the time.
I bring this up because I just saw a picture of the White Sox uniforms of the late 70's. You remember the collared jerseys that were un-tucked with the old style lettering don't you? I know many people will talk about the shorts they wore with those uniform tops but they only wore the gimmicky shorts for three games. They wore the old style jerseys from 1976-1981.
I loved those uniforms the White Sox sported and I wish they would bring them back. I thought they looked sharp, were unique and paid homage to the turn of the century uniforms that sported collars. Unfortunately, I think I'm the only one who liked those uni's besides Bill Veeck the White Sox owner at the time.
Detour To Cooperstown
Last year, on Opening Day at Coors Field, my trusty radio sidekick Andrew Timothy Cornell proclaimed rookie center-fielder Dexter Fowler to be a future Hall of Famer.
Andy thinks big and simply proclaiming Fowler to be a future All-Star wasn't good enough. He had to go the Hall of Fame route.
Well, the future Hall of Famer is not heading to Cooperstown just yet. He's not even heading to San Francisco with the Rockies. Instead, Fowler is heading to Colorado Springs and the wonderful world of AAA baseball.
Fowler, is hitting just .216 with a homer and 4 RBI's.
Hopefully he'll get his stroke down and be back with the Rockies soon to resume his path to Cooperstown.
Andy thinks big and simply proclaiming Fowler to be a future All-Star wasn't good enough. He had to go the Hall of Fame route.
Well, the future Hall of Famer is not heading to Cooperstown just yet. He's not even heading to San Francisco with the Rockies. Instead, Fowler is heading to Colorado Springs and the wonderful world of AAA baseball.
Fowler, is hitting just .216 with a homer and 4 RBI's.
Hopefully he'll get his stroke down and be back with the Rockies soon to resume his path to Cooperstown.
Memorial Day
I'll be watching baseball today and I'm especially eager to see the Rockies-Giants game with the appealing mound matchup of Ubaldo Jimenez versus Tim Lincecum. Hits and runs will be at a premium. Although, how many times have these type matchups resulted in a slugfest? But today I think one run might just do the trick.
But while baseball is on my mind this fine Monday, I think first and foremost of the veterans who have served this country, past and present, and those that have paid the ultimate price for our freedom.
Without the sacrifices of those brave individuals we might not have baseball and all the wonderful things we take for granted in the United States. Think about that the next time you read or hear about those evil bastards who want to destroy our way of life and who hate our country.
I could go off on a rant here but I'd like to keep this blog somewhat free of politics. But I think you know what I'm talking about.
So thank you to those who have served and those who gave their lives for our us.
Enjoy your Memorial Day.
But while baseball is on my mind this fine Monday, I think first and foremost of the veterans who have served this country, past and present, and those that have paid the ultimate price for our freedom.
Without the sacrifices of those brave individuals we might not have baseball and all the wonderful things we take for granted in the United States. Think about that the next time you read or hear about those evil bastards who want to destroy our way of life and who hate our country.
I could go off on a rant here but I'd like to keep this blog somewhat free of politics. But I think you know what I'm talking about.
So thank you to those who have served and those who gave their lives for our us.
Enjoy your Memorial Day.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
From Walk Off to Carry Off
Kendry Morales belted a grand slam home run in the bottom of the 10th yesterday to give the Angels a dramatic 5-1 win over the Mariners yesterday. What a great moment for Morales, the kind of thing players of all ages dream of. A walk-off grand slam!
Maybe they should rename this particular homer a carry off homer since Morales had to be carted off the field. It seems when Morales jumped on home plate with his celebratory teammates, he broke his left leg.
The Angels slugging first baseman will be out indefinitely but the memory of his freaky injury will last a lot longer.
Of course my radio co-host Andy Cornell, a former college football player who thinks baseball players are soft, will remind me about this injury. I can hear Cornell now, "How does a guy break his leg on a home run trot? How does that happen? What's with these guys?"
Actually, I can't argue with him on this one.
Maybe they should rename this particular homer a carry off homer since Morales had to be carted off the field. It seems when Morales jumped on home plate with his celebratory teammates, he broke his left leg.
The Angels slugging first baseman will be out indefinitely but the memory of his freaky injury will last a lot longer.
Of course my radio co-host Andy Cornell, a former college football player who thinks baseball players are soft, will remind me about this injury. I can hear Cornell now, "How does a guy break his leg on a home run trot? How does that happen? What's with these guys?"
Actually, I can't argue with him on this one.
A Pleasure To Watch
Yesterday I watched the Colorado 5A and 4A state championship games.
Rocky Mountain High School in Fort Collins won their 4th consecutive title, a 9-4 win over Ralston Valley in the 5A game.
In the 4A game, Mountain View won a thrilling 1-0 game over Broomfield, a game that went 9-innings.
I had no rooting interest, although I was pulling for Mountain View a bit since I liked their uniforms and Broomfield's uni's were an eyesore.
Anyway, the most pleasure I got from yesterday was simply watching four outstanding, well-coached teams, play tough, hustling hard-nosed baseball.
Too many baseball players, on all levels, from little league to the big leagues, don't play the game the right way. Too much gesturing and posturing for my liking. Also, the fundamentals of the game seem to have been lost on many players.
Not the case yesterday. Just a very enjoyable afternoon at All City Field in Denver.
Rocky Mountain High School in Fort Collins won their 4th consecutive title, a 9-4 win over Ralston Valley in the 5A game.
In the 4A game, Mountain View won a thrilling 1-0 game over Broomfield, a game that went 9-innings.
I had no rooting interest, although I was pulling for Mountain View a bit since I liked their uniforms and Broomfield's uni's were an eyesore.
Anyway, the most pleasure I got from yesterday was simply watching four outstanding, well-coached teams, play tough, hustling hard-nosed baseball.
Too many baseball players, on all levels, from little league to the big leagues, don't play the game the right way. Too much gesturing and posturing for my liking. Also, the fundamentals of the game seem to have been lost on many players.
Not the case yesterday. Just a very enjoyable afternoon at All City Field in Denver.
Another Perfecto
When Dallas Braden threw a perfect game for the Athletics earlier this month, I'm assuming a bunch of Major League pitchers thought to themselves, "If that guy can throw a perfect game then anybody can throw a perfect game."
Well, a guy who you would figure could do it if anybody can is Roy Halladay. Last night, Halladay tossed the 20th perfect game in MLB history against the Marlins, a team that has some decent sticks.
I watched the final three innings with Ed Henderson in the Coors Field press box. There was a TV monitor tuned to the game as we also were watching the Rockies dismantle the Dodgers (11-3 Colorado final).
When Halladay completed the perfecto I felt really good for Ed.
Hendu first scouted Halladay when he was 14 years old. He followed his high school career closely at Arvada West here in Colorado. Ed was able to meet up with Halladay when the Phillies were in town earlier this season. So even though Ed suggested the Marlins (the team he was scouting for at the time) draft Halladay, the Blue Jays beat them to the punch.
When it was announced to the Coors Field crowd that local boy Roy tossed perfect game, a resounding ovation ensued. Ed Henderson was pretty happy too.
Well, a guy who you would figure could do it if anybody can is Roy Halladay. Last night, Halladay tossed the 20th perfect game in MLB history against the Marlins, a team that has some decent sticks.
I watched the final three innings with Ed Henderson in the Coors Field press box. There was a TV monitor tuned to the game as we also were watching the Rockies dismantle the Dodgers (11-3 Colorado final).
When Halladay completed the perfecto I felt really good for Ed.
Hendu first scouted Halladay when he was 14 years old. He followed his high school career closely at Arvada West here in Colorado. Ed was able to meet up with Halladay when the Phillies were in town earlier this season. So even though Ed suggested the Marlins (the team he was scouting for at the time) draft Halladay, the Blue Jays beat them to the punch.
When it was announced to the Coors Field crowd that local boy Roy tossed perfect game, a resounding ovation ensued. Ed Henderson was pretty happy too.
My Friend Vin
For years I've seen Dodgers announcer Vin Scully in the Coors Field press box. Normally, I'd see him eating a meal in the press lounge, sitting with various people.
I always wanted to introduce myself to him and shake his hand. Afterall, he's Vin Scully, the man who has broadcast baseball since 1950 when the Dodgers were in Brooklyn. The greatest baseball broadcaster ever hands down.
Well, yesterday at Coors Field, I was sitting in the press dining area with Tony DeMarco (NBCsports.com) and Ed Henderson (Twins Scout, Turf contributor). I spotted Vin Scully sitting at a table surrounded by a few others. I told Tony and Ed that I've always wanted to meet Vin Scully.
Tony said, "Just go up and say hi. He's a great guy."
Ed seconded what Tony said.
I was waiting for Vin to get up before I made my move.
So, Vin got up from his table and started walking away and...DAMN DREW GOODMAN got in the way. Vin and Drew started chatting so I was lurking around the corner trying to look busy. Drew by the way is another great guy and an outstanding announcer. I always like seeing the Rockies TV man at the ballpark but not now.
After a few minutes, their conversation ended and Vin was on his way to his broadcast perch.
As he was walking through the press box towards the stairs that would take him up one level to the broadcasting area, I approached Vin Scully. I was nervous. Rarely do I get nervous meeting someone but this was different.
I introduced myself to Mr. Scully and he turned out the be the meanest, nastiest person I ever met. NOOOO, just kidding! He was incredibly gracious, making it seem like he had been wanting to meet me! I asked him about his playing days at Fordham University (he was a centerfielder...I guess Vin could run a bit!). We chatted for about five minutes and it was certainly a thrill. For me too!
Anyway, I returned to Tony and Ed in the press room. I pumped my fist which is rare because I'm normally pretty subdued and unemotional. I don't get too excited about things. But this was different.
What a career Vin Scully has had and continues to have. And now, I can finally say I've met this great man.
I always wanted to introduce myself to him and shake his hand. Afterall, he's Vin Scully, the man who has broadcast baseball since 1950 when the Dodgers were in Brooklyn. The greatest baseball broadcaster ever hands down.
Well, yesterday at Coors Field, I was sitting in the press dining area with Tony DeMarco (NBCsports.com) and Ed Henderson (Twins Scout, Turf contributor). I spotted Vin Scully sitting at a table surrounded by a few others. I told Tony and Ed that I've always wanted to meet Vin Scully.
Tony said, "Just go up and say hi. He's a great guy."
Ed seconded what Tony said.
I was waiting for Vin to get up before I made my move.
So, Vin got up from his table and started walking away and...DAMN DREW GOODMAN got in the way. Vin and Drew started chatting so I was lurking around the corner trying to look busy. Drew by the way is another great guy and an outstanding announcer. I always like seeing the Rockies TV man at the ballpark but not now.
After a few minutes, their conversation ended and Vin was on his way to his broadcast perch.
As he was walking through the press box towards the stairs that would take him up one level to the broadcasting area, I approached Vin Scully. I was nervous. Rarely do I get nervous meeting someone but this was different.
I introduced myself to Mr. Scully and he turned out the be the meanest, nastiest person I ever met. NOOOO, just kidding! He was incredibly gracious, making it seem like he had been wanting to meet me! I asked him about his playing days at Fordham University (he was a centerfielder...I guess Vin could run a bit!). We chatted for about five minutes and it was certainly a thrill. For me too!
Anyway, I returned to Tony and Ed in the press room. I pumped my fist which is rare because I'm normally pretty subdued and unemotional. I don't get too excited about things. But this was different.
What a career Vin Scully has had and continues to have. And now, I can finally say I've met this great man.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Omar Vizquel
One of my favorite players to watch over the years has been shortstop Omar Vizquel, now in his 22nd Major League season. Now with the White Sox, his 5th team, Vizquel, 43, is contemplating retirement at the end of the year.
For some people, they get great joy out of watching a guy slug a 450 foot home run. Like the saying goes, "chicks dig the longball."
Well, I'm not a chick and I do like the big blast as much as anybody, but I would much rather watch a fielding gem, the kind of which Omar Vizquel has been so great at.
I'm sure a lot of people would argue this with me but Vizquel is the greatest fielding shortstop I've ever seen. Better than Ozzie Smith. Better than Mark Belanger. Better than them all. I can't speak of players before my time, guys like Marty Marion, Phil Rizzuto, Pee Wee Reese and Honus Wagner. But I can't imagine any of them being better with the glove than Omar Vizquel.
When he first came up with Seattle, Vizquel couldn't hit for beans. But he turned himself into a pretty decent hitter. He has more than 2,700 hits to his credit but it's those 11-gold gloves that will pave his way to Cooperstown. At least it should. If he's not a first ballot Hall of Famer then the voting system needs to be revamped. It should be revamped anyway. The fact that broadcasters like Vin Scully (and the late Harry Kalas and Ernie Harwell) have never had a Hall of Fame vote is a sham. The baseball writers who vote on the Hall of Fame have frequently screwed it up. Anyway, I'll miss watching Vizquel play. I guess that is the point of this post.
For some people, they get great joy out of watching a guy slug a 450 foot home run. Like the saying goes, "chicks dig the longball."
Well, I'm not a chick and I do like the big blast as much as anybody, but I would much rather watch a fielding gem, the kind of which Omar Vizquel has been so great at.
I'm sure a lot of people would argue this with me but Vizquel is the greatest fielding shortstop I've ever seen. Better than Ozzie Smith. Better than Mark Belanger. Better than them all. I can't speak of players before my time, guys like Marty Marion, Phil Rizzuto, Pee Wee Reese and Honus Wagner. But I can't imagine any of them being better with the glove than Omar Vizquel.
When he first came up with Seattle, Vizquel couldn't hit for beans. But he turned himself into a pretty decent hitter. He has more than 2,700 hits to his credit but it's those 11-gold gloves that will pave his way to Cooperstown. At least it should. If he's not a first ballot Hall of Famer then the voting system needs to be revamped. It should be revamped anyway. The fact that broadcasters like Vin Scully (and the late Harry Kalas and Ernie Harwell) have never had a Hall of Fame vote is a sham. The baseball writers who vote on the Hall of Fame have frequently screwed it up. Anyway, I'll miss watching Vizquel play. I guess that is the point of this post.
The Sensitive One
Perhaps everyone is spoiled by Albert Pujols. That is why they are wondering why he is hitting about .270 this month with a lone homer and 10 RBI's. Poor numbers for a guy of Pujols ability and track record.
However, Pujols seems to be overly sensitive to the criticism. He said, regarding his so-called slump, "I guess because I'm not hitting .350, that's why you ask that question. I don't think it's fair to say I'm struggling when a guy's hitting over .300. Obviously, I spoil you guys too much hitting .350 every month and hitting a bunch of home runs with a bunch of RBIs. Obviously it's not where you want it 100 percent, but when you do feel 100 percent in this game ever?"
Pujols is not going to struggle all year. He's probably going to go on a tear real soon. So instead of getting cranky and snippy with the media, he should ignore them and worry about getting back on track.
This makes me wonder how he would fare if he should leave St. Louis as a free-agent and wind up in Boston or New York. If he is sensitive with the St. Louis media how will he act when a reporter in one of the aforementioned cities questions him after he goes hitless in two straight games?
Pujols contract runs out after this season although the Cardinals have a 16-million dollar option for next year. So Pujols will be a Cardinal for at least one more season. Maybe Pujols should request a trade to the Rockies so he can play in Denver, where he wouldn't face much media criticism.
However, Pujols seems to be overly sensitive to the criticism. He said, regarding his so-called slump, "I guess because I'm not hitting .350, that's why you ask that question. I don't think it's fair to say I'm struggling when a guy's hitting over .300. Obviously, I spoil you guys too much hitting .350 every month and hitting a bunch of home runs with a bunch of RBIs. Obviously it's not where you want it 100 percent, but when you do feel 100 percent in this game ever?"
Pujols is not going to struggle all year. He's probably going to go on a tear real soon. So instead of getting cranky and snippy with the media, he should ignore them and worry about getting back on track.
This makes me wonder how he would fare if he should leave St. Louis as a free-agent and wind up in Boston or New York. If he is sensitive with the St. Louis media how will he act when a reporter in one of the aforementioned cities questions him after he goes hitless in two straight games?
Pujols contract runs out after this season although the Cardinals have a 16-million dollar option for next year. So Pujols will be a Cardinal for at least one more season. Maybe Pujols should request a trade to the Rockies so he can play in Denver, where he wouldn't face much media criticism.
I Miss That Place
Settled in last night to watch some baseball. Yes, I know, a real shocker there.
Flipped on the Yankees-Twins game at new Target Field.
After 5-innings, rain forced a lengthy rain delay. The game never resumed and it was called a suspended game with the Yanks and Twins scoreless.
For once in my life I missed the Metrodome. Man, that was a ballpark. A nice roof to keep the rain out, artificial turf, hefty bag in right field. No rainouts there.
Sad that the Twins now play in a beautiful outdoor stadium.
Flipped on the Yankees-Twins game at new Target Field.
After 5-innings, rain forced a lengthy rain delay. The game never resumed and it was called a suspended game with the Yanks and Twins scoreless.
For once in my life I missed the Metrodome. Man, that was a ballpark. A nice roof to keep the rain out, artificial turf, hefty bag in right field. No rainouts there.
Sad that the Twins now play in a beautiful outdoor stadium.
Mystery Solved....A Little Bit Anyway.
I received an e-mail yesterday from Blake Walker, from Fairfax, Virginia. Mr. Walker is the grandson of Mysterious Walker, the old time ballplayer that I named this blog after. The reason for naming this blog in honor of Mysterious Walker is because I'm fond of old time ballplayers with colorful nicknames.
Blake alerted me of his grandfather's Wikipedia page. When I was doing some research on Mysterious Walker years ago and more recently a few months back, I couldn't find much. He was a mystery. However, his recent Wikipedia page sheds light on him. According to Wikipedia:
While playing for San Francisco in 1910, Walker identified himself as Frank Mitchell, leaving off his last name. Mystery surrounded his appearances in the Pacific Coast League. Some accounts indicate that he wore a mask while pitching for the Seals. After he won both games of a doubleheader over the Los Angeles Angels in early September 1910, allowing seven hits in the first game and six in the second, the Los Angeles Times first referred to him as "Mysterious Mitchell," reporting as follows:
"The big feature of this first double-header was the work of the iron 'busher' who heaved in both games. In the first, of ten innings, he allowed but seven hits, and in the second, of seven innings, six swats were made off him. ... Hash Mitchell, the mystery that came from nowhere to pitch four straight victories for the Seals ... Every one watched Mitchell in the hope that they might guess who he is by looking at him, and while they were gazing they saw some real spit ball pitching that was remarkable for the amount of juice he used to deceive the local batsmen."
The following week, the buzz surrounding "Mysterious Mitchell" continued to grow. Following a game in San Francisco, the press reported that Mitchell remained the focus of attention:
"Mysterious Mitchell furnished the sensation at Recreation Park once more this afternoon when 8000 wildly excited fans upset baseball tradition. ... Until after the game the twirler created as much interest and excitement as the contest itself as there was still more to follow. He was the center of a throng as he left the stand and when he went to the offices of the baseball company, several hundred people gathered to look at him and call for a speech."
On September 19, 1910, Chicago sporting writers identified Mysterious Mitchell based on a photograph published by the Los Angeles Times as Fred Walker, the former pitching star for the University of Chicago. The press reported that Walker had signed earlier in the summer with the New York Giants but "got into trouble with a chambermaid at a hotel where he stopped, who accused the young pitcher of attempted assault." Following the accusation, Walker had disappeared leaving no trace until his photograph appeared in the Los Angeles Times. For the rest of his career in baseball, Walker was known as either "Mysterious Walker" and "Mysterious Mitchell."
For years I've wondered who this Mysterious Walker was and why was he so "mysterious." Now I know.
One of the great things about baseball and it's magnificent history is that players from years gone by are brought to life again, through statistics, through stories and through pictures. Some players are well known and others are a mystery. Until the pieces fall in place and those mysterious players are rediscovered.
Meanwhile, Blake Walker asked this of me in his e-mail: "Be good using his name and be kind to his memory."
Absolutely!
Blake alerted me of his grandfather's Wikipedia page. When I was doing some research on Mysterious Walker years ago and more recently a few months back, I couldn't find much. He was a mystery. However, his recent Wikipedia page sheds light on him. According to Wikipedia:
While playing for San Francisco in 1910, Walker identified himself as Frank Mitchell, leaving off his last name. Mystery surrounded his appearances in the Pacific Coast League. Some accounts indicate that he wore a mask while pitching for the Seals. After he won both games of a doubleheader over the Los Angeles Angels in early September 1910, allowing seven hits in the first game and six in the second, the Los Angeles Times first referred to him as "Mysterious Mitchell," reporting as follows:
"The big feature of this first double-header was the work of the iron 'busher' who heaved in both games. In the first, of ten innings, he allowed but seven hits, and in the second, of seven innings, six swats were made off him. ... Hash Mitchell, the mystery that came from nowhere to pitch four straight victories for the Seals ... Every one watched Mitchell in the hope that they might guess who he is by looking at him, and while they were gazing they saw some real spit ball pitching that was remarkable for the amount of juice he used to deceive the local batsmen."
The following week, the buzz surrounding "Mysterious Mitchell" continued to grow. Following a game in San Francisco, the press reported that Mitchell remained the focus of attention:
"Mysterious Mitchell furnished the sensation at Recreation Park once more this afternoon when 8000 wildly excited fans upset baseball tradition. ... Until after the game the twirler created as much interest and excitement as the contest itself as there was still more to follow. He was the center of a throng as he left the stand and when he went to the offices of the baseball company, several hundred people gathered to look at him and call for a speech."
On September 19, 1910, Chicago sporting writers identified Mysterious Mitchell based on a photograph published by the Los Angeles Times as Fred Walker, the former pitching star for the University of Chicago. The press reported that Walker had signed earlier in the summer with the New York Giants but "got into trouble with a chambermaid at a hotel where he stopped, who accused the young pitcher of attempted assault." Following the accusation, Walker had disappeared leaving no trace until his photograph appeared in the Los Angeles Times. For the rest of his career in baseball, Walker was known as either "Mysterious Walker" and "Mysterious Mitchell."
For years I've wondered who this Mysterious Walker was and why was he so "mysterious." Now I know.
One of the great things about baseball and it's magnificent history is that players from years gone by are brought to life again, through statistics, through stories and through pictures. Some players are well known and others are a mystery. Until the pieces fall in place and those mysterious players are rediscovered.
Meanwhile, Blake Walker asked this of me in his e-mail: "Be good using his name and be kind to his memory."
Absolutely!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Reds
Last season I predicted the Reds to win the NL Wildcard. Instead they finished 78-84, 4th place in the Central Division, 13-games out of first place. My prediction was based on some of the talented young players the Reds had, such as Joey Votto, Jay Bruce and Brandon Phillips with good young arms in Johnny Cueto and Homer Bailey with veteran pitchers Bronson Arroyo and Aaron Harang.
Well, I guess I was one year too early with my prediction.
The Reds are 26-19, tied with the underachieving Cardinals for first in the division. I'm pulling for Cincinnati, not so much because I like the Reds (I don't) but because I think it would be a good story. You know, small market team makes good. Perhaps the Pirates could be inspired. Or not.
The Reds are still a long shot to win the division. Once the Cardinals get their act together they will run away from the field. At least they should. But the Reds could make things interesting as far as the Wild Card race goes.
By the way, their home field, Great American Ballpark, bugs me. I hate the gap in the upper deck and the stupid smokestacks in the outfield. The stadium looks disjointed and unbalanced. It looks as if it could have been a really sharp park but as far as all the new stadiums go, I wouldn't rank this one near the top. Still, an improvement over old Riverfront Stadium, maybe the most boring park in the history of baseball.
Well, I guess I was one year too early with my prediction.
The Reds are 26-19, tied with the underachieving Cardinals for first in the division. I'm pulling for Cincinnati, not so much because I like the Reds (I don't) but because I think it would be a good story. You know, small market team makes good. Perhaps the Pirates could be inspired. Or not.
The Reds are still a long shot to win the division. Once the Cardinals get their act together they will run away from the field. At least they should. But the Reds could make things interesting as far as the Wild Card race goes.
By the way, their home field, Great American Ballpark, bugs me. I hate the gap in the upper deck and the stupid smokestacks in the outfield. The stadium looks disjointed and unbalanced. It looks as if it could have been a really sharp park but as far as all the new stadiums go, I wouldn't rank this one near the top. Still, an improvement over old Riverfront Stadium, maybe the most boring park in the history of baseball.
The World According To Bump
The Rockies take on the Diamondbacks tonight, the start of a 6-game home stand. Three versus Arizona and then the Dodgers make their first appearance of the season at Coors Field for three over the weekend.
Rockies fans and their manager Jim Tracy would probably be happy with a 4-2 home stand. If they can take two of three from both teams that would lift them to two games above .500 when they hit the road again.
This got me to thinking about Bump Wills, the former Major League second baseman and the son of Dodgers legendary shortstop Maury Wills.
Bump was the manager of the Hudson Valley Renegades for two of the seasons I announced their games. I remember the time the team was beginning a long, 9-game road trip. Before the first game of the trip I asked Bump how many wins would he be happy with. He said, "Nine". I then asked him if he would be happy with an 8-1 trip. He said, "No, nine."
Bump explained if he said he would be happy with an 8-1 trip, that means he is willing to lose a game and he said he never wanted to have that mindset. He never wanted to concede a loss.
By the way, here is a strange Bump Wills story.
When he was playing for the Texas Rangers in 1977, he and Toby Harrah hit back-to-back inside the park home runs at Yankee Stadium one afternoon. It is the only time this has occurred in baseball history. I told Bump I was at that game and I asked him what he remembered about it. He had very little recollection. He said, "Really? Back to back? I kind of remember it."
If I hit an inside the park home run in the big leagues I certainly would remember it. Furthermore, if it was in back-to-back fashion it would be burned into my memory bank.
He did remember his lead off home run for the Cubs against the Reds in the season opener at Riverfront Stadium in 1982. This was when the Reds used to be the traditional opener in baseball. Bump liked to say, "After that game I was leading the majors in home runs." He finished the year with 6 homers, some guy named Sandberg took his job, and the next season he was playing in Japan.
While with the Hankyu Braves, Bump didn't fare so well. One of the reasons was the lengthy pregame workouts they had. Bump said he was burned out by the time the game started. So he went to the manager and told him that he was tired by game time because of the several hours of pregame drills and practice. The manager told Wills, "Bumpy, you out of shape. You run 10 poles tomorrow." Ten poles meaning ten sprints from foul pole to foul pole on the warning track. Not a very sympathetic manager I would say.
Bump was a character who finished his Major League career with 36 home runs. He was happy with that total because, "It's more than the old man!" Maury hit 20 lifetime homers.
I still stay in touch with Bump from time to time. He lives in Spokane, Washington and coaches youths.
Back to my original point. While people might say a good home stand for the Rockies would be 4-2, I know one guy who is thinking, "Why would you be willing to accept two losses?"
Rockies fans and their manager Jim Tracy would probably be happy with a 4-2 home stand. If they can take two of three from both teams that would lift them to two games above .500 when they hit the road again.
This got me to thinking about Bump Wills, the former Major League second baseman and the son of Dodgers legendary shortstop Maury Wills.
Bump was the manager of the Hudson Valley Renegades for two of the seasons I announced their games. I remember the time the team was beginning a long, 9-game road trip. Before the first game of the trip I asked Bump how many wins would he be happy with. He said, "Nine". I then asked him if he would be happy with an 8-1 trip. He said, "No, nine."
Bump explained if he said he would be happy with an 8-1 trip, that means he is willing to lose a game and he said he never wanted to have that mindset. He never wanted to concede a loss.
By the way, here is a strange Bump Wills story.
When he was playing for the Texas Rangers in 1977, he and Toby Harrah hit back-to-back inside the park home runs at Yankee Stadium one afternoon. It is the only time this has occurred in baseball history. I told Bump I was at that game and I asked him what he remembered about it. He had very little recollection. He said, "Really? Back to back? I kind of remember it."
If I hit an inside the park home run in the big leagues I certainly would remember it. Furthermore, if it was in back-to-back fashion it would be burned into my memory bank.
He did remember his lead off home run for the Cubs against the Reds in the season opener at Riverfront Stadium in 1982. This was when the Reds used to be the traditional opener in baseball. Bump liked to say, "After that game I was leading the majors in home runs." He finished the year with 6 homers, some guy named Sandberg took his job, and the next season he was playing in Japan.
While with the Hankyu Braves, Bump didn't fare so well. One of the reasons was the lengthy pregame workouts they had. Bump said he was burned out by the time the game started. So he went to the manager and told him that he was tired by game time because of the several hours of pregame drills and practice. The manager told Wills, "Bumpy, you out of shape. You run 10 poles tomorrow." Ten poles meaning ten sprints from foul pole to foul pole on the warning track. Not a very sympathetic manager I would say.
Bump was a character who finished his Major League career with 36 home runs. He was happy with that total because, "It's more than the old man!" Maury hit 20 lifetime homers.
I still stay in touch with Bump from time to time. He lives in Spokane, Washington and coaches youths.
Back to my original point. While people might say a good home stand for the Rockies would be 4-2, I know one guy who is thinking, "Why would you be willing to accept two losses?"
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Jose Lima
Just found out that Jose Lima died last night of a heart attack at the age of 37. Damn. Very sad.
He won 21 games in 1999 with the Astros but I'll remember him mostly for his enthusiasm and his hysterical interviews on the Jim Rome radio program. His phrase "Lima Time" cracked me up. He was certainly a character, like many fun-loving ballplayers from the Dominican Republic.
It's another reminder that we are all on borrowed time and you never know what the future holds.
He won 21 games in 1999 with the Astros but I'll remember him mostly for his enthusiasm and his hysterical interviews on the Jim Rome radio program. His phrase "Lima Time" cracked me up. He was certainly a character, like many fun-loving ballplayers from the Dominican Republic.
It's another reminder that we are all on borrowed time and you never know what the future holds.
Thanks Juan Castro
Daisuke Matsuzaka of the Red Sox was flirting with a no-hitter. With two outs in the bottom of the 8th, Phillies infielder Juan Castro broke up Dice-K's no-hit bid with a bloop single to left.
Matsuzaka did get the win, going 8-innings allowing that lone single as the Bostons stopped Philly 5-0. I'm glad he didn't get the no-hitter. Did I tell you I'm not fond of the Red Sox?
Matsuzaka did get the win, going 8-innings allowing that lone single as the Bostons stopped Philly 5-0. I'm glad he didn't get the no-hitter. Did I tell you I'm not fond of the Red Sox?
You Gotta Have Heart
I went to see some Colorado high school state baseball playoff baseball yesterday at All-City Field in Denver. Nice yard by the way.
Ralston Valley defeated two good teams, Grandview (10-8) and Mullen (13-2), to advance to next weekend's semi-finals. The team and Head Coach Shane Freehling were playing with heavy hearts after learning of the death on Friday night of former Mustang Nate Jurney, a key member of the 2008 4A State Championship team, from bone cancer. He played that senior season, despite being diagnosed with cancer.
I didn't know Nate Jurney but from what I've read and heard, he was a champion and a winner. A tough kid with a big heart and a fine left-handed pitcher. Yesterday, his former team showed the heart and determination that would have made Nate proud.
Who knows what will happen next week as Ralston Valley battles for another championship. It won't matter. These kids are winners on the field and off.
Ralston Valley defeated two good teams, Grandview (10-8) and Mullen (13-2), to advance to next weekend's semi-finals. The team and Head Coach Shane Freehling were playing with heavy hearts after learning of the death on Friday night of former Mustang Nate Jurney, a key member of the 2008 4A State Championship team, from bone cancer. He played that senior season, despite being diagnosed with cancer.
I didn't know Nate Jurney but from what I've read and heard, he was a champion and a winner. A tough kid with a big heart and a fine left-handed pitcher. Yesterday, his former team showed the heart and determination that would have made Nate proud.
Who knows what will happen next week as Ralston Valley battles for another championship. It won't matter. These kids are winners on the field and off.
Friday, May 21, 2010
No Idea
I was looking up Matt Nokes career stats on baseballreference.com. Why? Don't ask.
Anyway, he ended his career in 1995 with the Rockies. He appeared in 10 games and had just 2 hits in 11 at bats, a robust .182 average and then he was done at 31.
I had no clue or recollection that Nokes ever suited up for the Rocks. None.
I'm glad I have this knowledge now. In case I'm ever on Jeopardy (something of a longshot I would say) and the answer is, "Matt Nokes' final Major League team" (maybe even a longer shot than me appearing on Jeopardy) , I would respond, "Who are the Colorado Rockies."
Anyway, he ended his career in 1995 with the Rockies. He appeared in 10 games and had just 2 hits in 11 at bats, a robust .182 average and then he was done at 31.
I had no clue or recollection that Nokes ever suited up for the Rocks. None.
I'm glad I have this knowledge now. In case I'm ever on Jeopardy (something of a longshot I would say) and the answer is, "Matt Nokes' final Major League team" (maybe even a longer shot than me appearing on Jeopardy) , I would respond, "Who are the Colorado Rockies."
Mitch Is Wrong!
Last night, on MLB Network, Mitch Williams listed his current Top 10 pitchers in baseball.
He had Roy Halladay number one followed by Tim Lincecum. Not bad at all but they should be two and three on the list.
The number one pitcher in baseball, right now, is Ubaldo Jimenez of the Rockies. He's 8-1 with an ERA of 0.99. He has a no-hitter to his credit and could have had another last night against the Astros. Ubaldo the Magnificent allowed one hit over 7-innings and that hit was questionable. A slow roller to third by slow-footed catcher Humberto Quintero was flubbed by Ian Stewart who for some reason tried to barehand the ball. Uh, Stewie, there is a piece of leather on your other hand that serves a purpose. Use it. Why he thought he needed to barehand the ball by Quintero is inexplicable. Quintero, in his 238 game big league career has zero stolen bases.
I don't like the way Stewart plays third base. He too often makes the off-balance throw instead of setting his feet. He wants to make the pretty play instead of the fundamental play. Last night it may have cost Ubaldo another no-hitter.
Back to my original point, in my Casey Stengel-like rambling, is that Mitch Williams had Ubaldo Jimenez as the 6th best pitcher in baseball. Yes, 6th. If you've been reading this blog with regularity you know that I like Williams as an analyst. He's funny, insightful and possesses a pleasing demeanor. But in this case, Wild Thing is dead wrong. Jimenez is the best pitcher in baseball. Period.
He had Roy Halladay number one followed by Tim Lincecum. Not bad at all but they should be two and three on the list.
The number one pitcher in baseball, right now, is Ubaldo Jimenez of the Rockies. He's 8-1 with an ERA of 0.99. He has a no-hitter to his credit and could have had another last night against the Astros. Ubaldo the Magnificent allowed one hit over 7-innings and that hit was questionable. A slow roller to third by slow-footed catcher Humberto Quintero was flubbed by Ian Stewart who for some reason tried to barehand the ball. Uh, Stewie, there is a piece of leather on your other hand that serves a purpose. Use it. Why he thought he needed to barehand the ball by Quintero is inexplicable. Quintero, in his 238 game big league career has zero stolen bases.
I don't like the way Stewart plays third base. He too often makes the off-balance throw instead of setting his feet. He wants to make the pretty play instead of the fundamental play. Last night it may have cost Ubaldo another no-hitter.
Back to my original point, in my Casey Stengel-like rambling, is that Mitch Williams had Ubaldo Jimenez as the 6th best pitcher in baseball. Yes, 6th. If you've been reading this blog with regularity you know that I like Williams as an analyst. He's funny, insightful and possesses a pleasing demeanor. But in this case, Wild Thing is dead wrong. Jimenez is the best pitcher in baseball. Period.
Rather Harsh
The Red Sox designated lefthanded reliever Scott Schoenweis for assignment yesterday.
It was the one-year anniversary of his wife's death due to a drug overdose.
Couldn't Boston have released him a day earlier or a day later? Did it have to be on such a tragic day for Schoenweis? I'm guessing May 20th is a day he'd like to cross off the calendar.
Schoenweis is 36 years old and his ERA this season has been a bloated 7.90. Still, I think, and hope, he gets another chance elsewhere. He's been a solid big leaguer for a long time and I'm sure some team feels he has some life remaining in his left arm.
It was the one-year anniversary of his wife's death due to a drug overdose.
Couldn't Boston have released him a day earlier or a day later? Did it have to be on such a tragic day for Schoenweis? I'm guessing May 20th is a day he'd like to cross off the calendar.
Schoenweis is 36 years old and his ERA this season has been a bloated 7.90. Still, I think, and hope, he gets another chance elsewhere. He's been a solid big leaguer for a long time and I'm sure some team feels he has some life remaining in his left arm.
One That Got Away
The Reds have been a pleasant surprise this year, even spending a couple of days in first place in the putrid NL Central. The underachieving Cards are back on top in the division by a half game over Cincinnati.
Every season, a few teams will miss out on the post-season by a game or two. They can look back at games they let slip away.
If the Reds lose out on the division or a Wildcard berth by a game or two, they can point to yesterday as a game they should have had.
The Braves scored 7 times in the bottom of the 9th to win 10-9 over Cincy. That painful loss will be even more painful if the Reds lose out by a game for a postseason spot.
By the way, Brooks Conrad belted a walk-off grand slam to win it for Atlanta. Reds outfielder Laynce Nix should have caught the ball. It went off his glove and over the fence. Conrad thought that the ball was caught and had to be told to run around the bases after he pulled up rounding first.
By the way, it was Conrad's 5th Major League homer and I'll admit it. I'd never heard of him until yesterday.
Every season, a few teams will miss out on the post-season by a game or two. They can look back at games they let slip away.
If the Reds lose out on the division or a Wildcard berth by a game or two, they can point to yesterday as a game they should have had.
The Braves scored 7 times in the bottom of the 9th to win 10-9 over Cincy. That painful loss will be even more painful if the Reds lose out by a game for a postseason spot.
By the way, Brooks Conrad belted a walk-off grand slam to win it for Atlanta. Reds outfielder Laynce Nix should have caught the ball. It went off his glove and over the fence. Conrad thought that the ball was caught and had to be told to run around the bases after he pulled up rounding first.
By the way, it was Conrad's 5th Major League homer and I'll admit it. I'd never heard of him until yesterday.
You Can't Lose 'Em All
The Brewers defeated the Pirates 4-3 last evening in Pittsburgh. The Bucs, creeping towards .500, couldn't stand prosperity by their woeful standards, so they let Milwaukee climb out of a 3-0 hole to snap their 9-game losing skid. By doing so, the Brewers once again proved my long-held theory that "You can't lose 'em all." Unless you are the 2008 Detroit Lions. But that's a different sport. Other than football, my theory has proven correct in baseball, basketball and hockey.
Jon Lester?
Just read something in the Denver Post that has blown me away.
Red Sox lefty Jon Lester won last night, 6-2 over the Twins. That doesn't blow me away, Lester is a good pitcher. What blows me away is that Lester is 46-18 for his career for a winning percentage of .719 which is the best winning mark for any lefthander in baseball history with at least 100 starts. Better than Lefty Grove. Better than Steve Carlton. Better than Sandy Koufax. Better than Lefty Gomez. Better than Ron Guidry. Yes, amazingly, better than them all.
Since I'm a Yankees fan, I have to hate all things Red Sox. However, I'll make a confession here. I can't hate Lester, or Lestah as he's known in the town with the horrible accent. Seriously, isn't the Boston accent the worst accent you've ever heard? I digress. I like Lester because I admire anyone who has fought back from cancer. That is more impressive than his winning percentage.
So, hat's off to Lester but if he never won another game in a Boston uniform again it wouldn't bother me.
Red Sox lefty Jon Lester won last night, 6-2 over the Twins. That doesn't blow me away, Lester is a good pitcher. What blows me away is that Lester is 46-18 for his career for a winning percentage of .719 which is the best winning mark for any lefthander in baseball history with at least 100 starts. Better than Lefty Grove. Better than Steve Carlton. Better than Sandy Koufax. Better than Lefty Gomez. Better than Ron Guidry. Yes, amazingly, better than them all.
Since I'm a Yankees fan, I have to hate all things Red Sox. However, I'll make a confession here. I can't hate Lester, or Lestah as he's known in the town with the horrible accent. Seriously, isn't the Boston accent the worst accent you've ever heard? I digress. I like Lester because I admire anyone who has fought back from cancer. That is more impressive than his winning percentage.
So, hat's off to Lester but if he never won another game in a Boston uniform again it wouldn't bother me.
Interleague Play
Since this blog has been in existence, all of five months, I don't believe I've shared my opinion on Interleague play. Since tonight is the start of Interleague games this would be a good time to share my thoughts.
It's simple. I hate Interleague play. It cheapens the World Series and it is unfair in many regards. For example, the Yankees play the Mets six times in Interleague play and the Phillies and Astros (why?) three times. The Red Sox play the Phillies six times and the Rockies three times. Advantage Yankees. The way the system is set up some teams will have easier schedules than others. That's the inequity that is Interleague play.
While some may argue that it's great because we get to see Yankees-Mets, Cubs-White Sox, Dodgers-Angels, I say that Interleague play also brings more "who gives a flying crap" games. Unless you are a big fan of Rays-Astros, Rockies-Royals, Tigers-Dodgers or Marlins-White Sox, just some of the riveting Interleague battles this weekend.
Interleague play has lost its appeal and luster and should be done away with. But it won't be because to eliminate it now would admit that it is a failure and baseball doesn't do that. Plus, with big crowds for local rivalries, like the Yankees versus the Mets, baseball will say, "Look at how much people love Interleague play!" They'll conveniently overlook the lousy attendance for tonight's tradition-laden Blue Jays-Diamondbacks series.
It's simple. I hate Interleague play. It cheapens the World Series and it is unfair in many regards. For example, the Yankees play the Mets six times in Interleague play and the Phillies and Astros (why?) three times. The Red Sox play the Phillies six times and the Rockies three times. Advantage Yankees. The way the system is set up some teams will have easier schedules than others. That's the inequity that is Interleague play.
While some may argue that it's great because we get to see Yankees-Mets, Cubs-White Sox, Dodgers-Angels, I say that Interleague play also brings more "who gives a flying crap" games. Unless you are a big fan of Rays-Astros, Rockies-Royals, Tigers-Dodgers or Marlins-White Sox, just some of the riveting Interleague battles this weekend.
Interleague play has lost its appeal and luster and should be done away with. But it won't be because to eliminate it now would admit that it is a failure and baseball doesn't do that. Plus, with big crowds for local rivalries, like the Yankees versus the Mets, baseball will say, "Look at how much people love Interleague play!" They'll conveniently overlook the lousy attendance for tonight's tradition-laden Blue Jays-Diamondbacks series.
Scary Good
After watching Tampa Bay manhandle the Yankees the past two nights three things come to mind. First, the Rays are for real. They have great starting pitching, they play outstanding defense, they can hit for average and power and run the bases with abandon. Secondly, Carl Crawford is a free agent after this season and Tampa likely won't be able to afford him. He'll look good in pinstripes next year. Actually, anyone will look good in pinstripes not named Randy Winn. Thirdly, I'm glad it was a two game series. I've never been so happy to see the Rays leave town. This team is legit and right now, clearly, the best team in baseball.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Making Money
Like any sharp businessman, Cliff Powers, my co-worker at KNUS, knows a money-making opportunity when he sees one.
Aware of my participation in the Denver Over 35-Baseball League, also known as Old Guy's Baseball, Cliff is looking to supplement his income.
Cliff said this morning, on the air, "I'm gonna make some money by honing in on the Ben-Gay and linament concessions at your games."
He might be on to something.
Aware of my participation in the Denver Over 35-Baseball League, also known as Old Guy's Baseball, Cliff is looking to supplement his income.
Cliff said this morning, on the air, "I'm gonna make some money by honing in on the Ben-Gay and linament concessions at your games."
He might be on to something.
Didn't You Used To Be Travis Hafner
What went wrong with Travis Hafner? The Indians DH had four consecutive seasons of 100 or more RBI's and a total of 127 homers in those seasons. He was one of the feared sluggers in the American League.
His past two seasons, his RBI totals have been 24, 49 and this year so far 12. His home run totals have been 5, 16 and this year 3.
How does a guy who was such a good hitter turn out to be such a pedestrian hitter?
Age? He's only 33. Does he play a demanding position? No, he's a DH. Could it be his salary? Well, he signed a big contract and the past two seasons he's made nearly 20-million dollars. Some guys lose their edge or incentive after signing the big contract. Could that be Hafner? Who knows. Could it be the more stringent drug policy in MLB? I'm not singling anybody out but Hafner, and every other player, is under the umbrella of suspicion. Thank Bud Selig and former union leader Donald Fehr for that since they turned the other way when the steroid era was beginning.
Whatever the case is, Travis Hafner is not the player he once was and I have no idea why. Just one of the many reasons why the Indians are just a shell of their former selves. They haven't been the same since blowing a 3-1 ALCS lead to the Red Sox in 2007. Hafner hit .148 in that series. He hasn't been the same since either.
His past two seasons, his RBI totals have been 24, 49 and this year so far 12. His home run totals have been 5, 16 and this year 3.
How does a guy who was such a good hitter turn out to be such a pedestrian hitter?
Age? He's only 33. Does he play a demanding position? No, he's a DH. Could it be his salary? Well, he signed a big contract and the past two seasons he's made nearly 20-million dollars. Some guys lose their edge or incentive after signing the big contract. Could that be Hafner? Who knows. Could it be the more stringent drug policy in MLB? I'm not singling anybody out but Hafner, and every other player, is under the umbrella of suspicion. Thank Bud Selig and former union leader Donald Fehr for that since they turned the other way when the steroid era was beginning.
Whatever the case is, Travis Hafner is not the player he once was and I have no idea why. Just one of the many reasons why the Indians are just a shell of their former selves. They haven't been the same since blowing a 3-1 ALCS lead to the Red Sox in 2007. Hafner hit .148 in that series. He hasn't been the same since either.
Cardinals Fans
St. Louis Cardinals fans are known to be among the most knowledgeable and well behaved fans in all of baseball. One of the things they are known for is rarely booing, be it their own players or the opposition.
That is why I have to give major props to Cards fans for booing Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez. If you recall, a few days ago Ramirez was benched by manager Fredi Gonzalez for loafing after a ball. Ramirez had some harsh words for his manager. It should be noted that the rest of the Marlins sided with Gonzalez.
After finally apologizing to the team, Ramirez was back in the Marlins lineup at St. Louis last night.
During his first at-bat the Cardinals crowd booed Ramirez. Very loudly I might add.
Good for the Cardinals fans. They apparently respect the game more than Ramirez and they told him, in no uncertain terms, that they didn't appreciate his lack of hustle. Yes, those Cards fans are a smart bunch. Except for my nephew Tony. Badda bing!
That is why I have to give major props to Cards fans for booing Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez. If you recall, a few days ago Ramirez was benched by manager Fredi Gonzalez for loafing after a ball. Ramirez had some harsh words for his manager. It should be noted that the rest of the Marlins sided with Gonzalez.
After finally apologizing to the team, Ramirez was back in the Marlins lineup at St. Louis last night.
During his first at-bat the Cardinals crowd booed Ramirez. Very loudly I might add.
Good for the Cardinals fans. They apparently respect the game more than Ramirez and they told him, in no uncertain terms, that they didn't appreciate his lack of hustle. Yes, those Cards fans are a smart bunch. Except for my nephew Tony. Badda bing!
Calling Ted Kazanski
Last night in Washington, Mets centerfielder Angel Pagan hit an inside-the-park home run. Later in the game, he started a triple play with a sweet shoestring catch which led to doubling off two runners who thought the ball would drop.
Pagan's heroics would be for naught as the Nats won the game 5-3. The Mets have lost 9 of 11 by the way.
Anyhow, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, the last player to hit and inside-the-park homer and participate in a triple play was Phillies shortstop Ted Kazanski, not to be confused with The Unabomber Ted Kaczynski. It was also the last time a team had an inside-the-parker and a triple play in the same game. My question is, how in the world does the Elias Sports Bureau know these things? How are they able to get that information so quickly? Incredible.
Kazanski's feat took place on September 25, 1955 against the New York Giants at The Polo Grounds in the first game of a season-ending doubleheader.
Kazanski's inside-the-park home run off pitcher Jim Hearn went to left field. I'm guessing the 5th inning homer hugged the wall and rolled towards centerfield at the bathtub shaped Polo Grounds.
The Phillies won, 3-1, when Bobby Hofman lined into a triple play to end the game.
As for Ted Kazanski, that home run was his only hit of the season. As a 21-year old, he only had 13 at-bats in the big leagues that season. He hit .214 in his 6-year career, all with the Phillies. I'm sure somewhere, someone will be contacting Ted Kazanski today. Yes, he's still alive. Where does he live? I don't know but I'm guessing the Elias Sports Bureau knows everything about him.
Pagan's heroics would be for naught as the Nats won the game 5-3. The Mets have lost 9 of 11 by the way.
Anyhow, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, the last player to hit and inside-the-park homer and participate in a triple play was Phillies shortstop Ted Kazanski, not to be confused with The Unabomber Ted Kaczynski. It was also the last time a team had an inside-the-parker and a triple play in the same game. My question is, how in the world does the Elias Sports Bureau know these things? How are they able to get that information so quickly? Incredible.
Kazanski's feat took place on September 25, 1955 against the New York Giants at The Polo Grounds in the first game of a season-ending doubleheader.
Kazanski's inside-the-park home run off pitcher Jim Hearn went to left field. I'm guessing the 5th inning homer hugged the wall and rolled towards centerfield at the bathtub shaped Polo Grounds.
The Phillies won, 3-1, when Bobby Hofman lined into a triple play to end the game.
As for Ted Kazanski, that home run was his only hit of the season. As a 21-year old, he only had 13 at-bats in the big leagues that season. He hit .214 in his 6-year career, all with the Phillies. I'm sure somewhere, someone will be contacting Ted Kazanski today. Yes, he's still alive. Where does he live? I don't know but I'm guessing the Elias Sports Bureau knows everything about him.
Nice Footwork
I've seen a lot of injuries over the years but last night was a first. While watching the Rays steamroll the Yankees, New York outfielder Marcus Thames sprained his ankle and had to leave the game.
Thames singled to right and on his journey to first base stepped on a bat in the baseline. His bat.
Since I'm on the topic of Yankee outfielders, when will the Yanks release Randy Winn? The guy is flat out awful. Talk about a guy who is over the hill, it's Winn. Do you think Johnny Damon would look better in left-field for the Yanks?
Winn has had a nice big league career. But right now he looks finished.
Thames singled to right and on his journey to first base stepped on a bat in the baseline. His bat.
Since I'm on the topic of Yankee outfielders, when will the Yanks release Randy Winn? The guy is flat out awful. Talk about a guy who is over the hill, it's Winn. Do you think Johnny Damon would look better in left-field for the Yanks?
Winn has had a nice big league career. But right now he looks finished.
News Flash....The Brewers Are Bad
I didn't think the Brewers would be a contending team this year. But I didn't think they would be this bad.
The Pirates got past the pitching poor Brewers 6-4 last night. The same Pirates team that had lost 22 in a row to Milwaukee but now has won 3 straight against them.
They don't have a number one pitcher, their closer, Trevor Hoffman is showing signs that he may be finished and their offense has gone south. The team ERA is a ghastly 5.28.
At 15-25 in the weak NL Central things are not looking good for Milwaukee, losers of 9 in a row. While its too early to completely bury a team, I will say they are on life support. Manager Ken Macha may be the next manager to get wacked.
The Pirates got past the pitching poor Brewers 6-4 last night. The same Pirates team that had lost 22 in a row to Milwaukee but now has won 3 straight against them.
They don't have a number one pitcher, their closer, Trevor Hoffman is showing signs that he may be finished and their offense has gone south. The team ERA is a ghastly 5.28.
At 15-25 in the weak NL Central things are not looking good for Milwaukee, losers of 9 in a row. While its too early to completely bury a team, I will say they are on life support. Manager Ken Macha may be the next manager to get wacked.
Drunky the Clown
As I get older I have less and less patience for people I don’t particularly care for. I just don’t want to deal with idiots. I'm tired of it.
I work with a guy; I’ll call him Drunky the Clown, that I’ve decided not to associate with anymore. He’s a smelly alcoholic who is a negative drain. He doesn’t enhance my life, in fact, he detracts from it. So basically I told Drunky I want nothing to do with him.
I bring this up because Drunky is a Dodgers and Lakers fan. The Dodgers had their 9-game winning streak snapped last night and the Lakers beat the Suns to go up 2-games to none in the Western Conference Finals. Normally, Drunky would come in to my studio and want to talk to me about the Dodgers and Lakers. Not anymore. This is a good thing. I don’t have to smell his stench and look at his bloated face and dyed hair that looks like a dead racoon on his head. It also gives me another reason to root against the Dodgers and Lakers.
I work with a guy; I’ll call him Drunky the Clown, that I’ve decided not to associate with anymore. He’s a smelly alcoholic who is a negative drain. He doesn’t enhance my life, in fact, he detracts from it. So basically I told Drunky I want nothing to do with him.
I bring this up because Drunky is a Dodgers and Lakers fan. The Dodgers had their 9-game winning streak snapped last night and the Lakers beat the Suns to go up 2-games to none in the Western Conference Finals. Normally, Drunky would come in to my studio and want to talk to me about the Dodgers and Lakers. Not anymore. This is a good thing. I don’t have to smell his stench and look at his bloated face and dyed hair that looks like a dead racoon on his head. It also gives me another reason to root against the Dodgers and Lakers.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Helton Homers
Finally, Todd Helton belted his first homer of the season, a 2-run poke at Wrigley Field last night.
I asked Twins scout Ed Henderson how many home runs he thought Helton would end up with. He said, "10 to 15".
I think that's being generous. While I hope he hits a bunch more homers I think he will be fortunate to reach double digits.
What do you think?
I asked Twins scout Ed Henderson how many home runs he thought Helton would end up with. He said, "10 to 15".
I think that's being generous. While I hope he hits a bunch more homers I think he will be fortunate to reach double digits.
What do you think?
How Did That Happen?
From the "How Did That Happen Department" last night.
1)The Pirates beat Roy Halladay and the Phillies 2-1.
2)Joba Chamberlain and Mariano Rivera coughed up a 5-1 lead in the 8th and 9th innings as the Red Sox rallied past the Yanks 7-6.
3) Trevor Hoffman gave up 3 runs in the bottom of the 9th to the Reds as Cincinnati got past Milwaukee 5-4. First place Cincinnati I might add. Hoffman has blown 5-saves in 10 opportunities this season.
Strange things happen in baseball don't they?
1)The Pirates beat Roy Halladay and the Phillies 2-1.
2)Joba Chamberlain and Mariano Rivera coughed up a 5-1 lead in the 8th and 9th innings as the Red Sox rallied past the Yanks 7-6.
3) Trevor Hoffman gave up 3 runs in the bottom of the 9th to the Reds as Cincinnati got past Milwaukee 5-4. First place Cincinnati I might add. Hoffman has blown 5-saves in 10 opportunities this season.
Strange things happen in baseball don't they?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
My New Favorite Manager
Marlins Manager Fredi Gonzalez climbed up my list of admired managers. Last night he removed his best player, shortstop Hanley Ramirez after the two-time All-Star loafed for a ball he inadvertantly kicked down the left field line.
Instead of making excuses, Gonzalez said Ramirez was benched for lack of effort.
Too many managers, Jerry Manuel of the Mets comes to mind, allow their players to loaf on the field. What Gonzalez did sends a message loud and clear to the rest of the team. That message is hustle or sit.
Instead of making excuses, Gonzalez said Ramirez was benched for lack of effort.
Too many managers, Jerry Manuel of the Mets comes to mind, allow their players to loaf on the field. What Gonzalez did sends a message loud and clear to the rest of the team. That message is hustle or sit.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Deflation then Elation
Yanks jumped out to a 5-0 first inning lead. I was feeling goooooood. In typical Boston-New York fashion, the Red Sox battled back and took a 9-7 lead into the bottom of the 9th. I was feeling not too good.
Jonathan Papelbon came in to close it out and gave up a 2-run tying homer to Alex Rodriguez (love that guy!) and then a 2-run jack to Marcus Thames as the Yankees won ended up with the 11-9 victory. I always enjoy seeing Papelbon cough it up.
Jerry Remy, on NESN, deemed it "a crushing loss for the Red Sox."
After thinking I would go to bed salty and cranky, I'll instead be resting well when my head hits the pillow.
Good night Boston.
Jonathan Papelbon came in to close it out and gave up a 2-run tying homer to Alex Rodriguez (love that guy!) and then a 2-run jack to Marcus Thames as the Yankees won ended up with the 11-9 victory. I always enjoy seeing Papelbon cough it up.
Jerry Remy, on NESN, deemed it "a crushing loss for the Red Sox."
After thinking I would go to bed salty and cranky, I'll instead be resting well when my head hits the pillow.
Good night Boston.
Don't Mess With This Guy
Phillies relief pitcher Antonio Bastardo sounds like a guy you don't want to get into an altercation with. He sounds like some dude from a Clint Eastwood spaghetti western.
He could be the nicest man in the world but with a name like Antonio Bastardo I'm not taking any chances.
He's also been a pretty decent pitcher for the Phils so far this season, chalking up a 1.42 ERA in 8 appearances.
He could be the nicest man in the world but with a name like Antonio Bastardo I'm not taking any chances.
He's also been a pretty decent pitcher for the Phils so far this season, chalking up a 1.42 ERA in 8 appearances.
Argument Interuptus
Top of the 7th at the new Yankee Stadium tonight when Dustin Pedroia grounded into a 4-6-3 double play to end the inning. It was a close play at first but the replay showed that Little Dusty Big Stick was out by a hair.
Red Sox manager Terry Francona came out to argue with umpire Angel Campos. As they were jawjacking back and forth, "God Bless America" began to play over the PA system. Both Francona and Campos stopped arguing, took off their caps and stood at attention, side by side. After the song ended, Francona had a brief word or two for Campos then jogged back to the Red Sox dugout.
Maybe that is the answer to ending on-field disagreements. Just play "God Bless America!"
Red Sox manager Terry Francona came out to argue with umpire Angel Campos. As they were jawjacking back and forth, "God Bless America" began to play over the PA system. Both Francona and Campos stopped arguing, took off their caps and stood at attention, side by side. After the song ended, Francona had a brief word or two for Campos then jogged back to the Red Sox dugout.
Maybe that is the answer to ending on-field disagreements. Just play "God Bless America!"
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Willy Gone
The Nationals have designated light-hitting outfielder Willy Taveras for assignment. That actually sounds pretty good. It isn't.
"Hey Willy, we're designating you for assignment!"
"Great skip, what's the assignment?"
The assignment the Nats had for Taveras is to go away. You are released. But at least he can hold his head high because he wasn't "cut", "let go", "canned", "sent packing", "shipped out" or "placed on waivers". He was designated for assignment. That sounds better.
Anyway, Willy T is still young (28) and just two seasons removed from leading the NL in stolen bases with 68 when he was with Colorado. I'm guessing some team will pick him up. Still, if this guy ever learned how to put the bat on the ball, with his speed he would be dangerous. But, like they say, "You can't steal first base."
"Hey Willy, we're designating you for assignment!"
"Great skip, what's the assignment?"
The assignment the Nats had for Taveras is to go away. You are released. But at least he can hold his head high because he wasn't "cut", "let go", "canned", "sent packing", "shipped out" or "placed on waivers". He was designated for assignment. That sounds better.
Anyway, Willy T is still young (28) and just two seasons removed from leading the NL in stolen bases with 68 when he was with Colorado. I'm guessing some team will pick him up. Still, if this guy ever learned how to put the bat on the ball, with his speed he would be dangerous. But, like they say, "You can't steal first base."
Pigs Are Flying
Yanks up 3-1, top 8, against the Twins. Bases loaded. Girardi makes the call to Mariano.
Justin Adams calls BR.
Mariano walks Jim Thome to make it 3-2.
Justin and BR talk.
Mariano gives up a grand slam to Jason Kubel. (Huh? Really? Yes, really.)
Justin laughs.
BR wants to strangle Justin.
Twins lead 6-3.
BR will not accept another phone call from Justin during a Yankees game again.
Justin Adams calls BR.
Mariano walks Jim Thome to make it 3-2.
Justin and BR talk.
Mariano gives up a grand slam to Jason Kubel. (Huh? Really? Yes, really.)
Justin laughs.
BR wants to strangle Justin.
Twins lead 6-3.
BR will not accept another phone call from Justin during a Yankees game again.
Not Ichiro's Fault
The Mariners are hitting a robust .232 as a team. Here are some of the individual averages of the M's:
Ken Griffey .200, big off-season acquisition Milton Bradley .214 and on the DL, Jose Lopez .212, free-agent bust (so far) Chone Figgins .188, Casey Kotchman .186, Rob Johnson .158.
When I picked the Mariners to win the AL West I knew the offense wouldn't remind anyone of the '27 Yankees. But I didn't think they would remind people of the '79 Tigers...the 1979 Spring Valley High Tigers that is, a team I hit a whopping .250 for.
Well, you can't blame Ichiro Suzuki though. The amazing Ichiro is hitting his typical .360 and is on pace for his 10th consecutive season of 200+ hits. With a lifetime average of .333 it is hard to believe he only has one batting title and that in his rookie campaign in 2001.
Anyway, Ichiro, who will be the first Japanese player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame (is there a Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame?), can honestly say about Seattle's lack of offense, "Not my fault!"
Ken Griffey .200, big off-season acquisition Milton Bradley .214 and on the DL, Jose Lopez .212, free-agent bust (so far) Chone Figgins .188, Casey Kotchman .186, Rob Johnson .158.
When I picked the Mariners to win the AL West I knew the offense wouldn't remind anyone of the '27 Yankees. But I didn't think they would remind people of the '79 Tigers...the 1979 Spring Valley High Tigers that is, a team I hit a whopping .250 for.
Well, you can't blame Ichiro Suzuki though. The amazing Ichiro is hitting his typical .360 and is on pace for his 10th consecutive season of 200+ hits. With a lifetime average of .333 it is hard to believe he only has one batting title and that in his rookie campaign in 2001.
Anyway, Ichiro, who will be the first Japanese player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame (is there a Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame?), can honestly say about Seattle's lack of offense, "Not my fault!"
The Hot Seat
The Royals fired Trey Hillman this week. That move alone could take Kansas City from 64 wins to 66 or even 68. They replaced Hillman with Ned Yost. In a year or so, Yost will be replaced by another retread manager. That's the way owner David Glass operates.
Glass is one of the worst owners in sports. He cares not about winning but turning a profit. If he was really interested in winning, he would get rid of the "small market" excuse, and put some of his Wal-Mart money into the ballclub.
Anyway, with Hillman the first managerial casualty of the season, I have put together a list of managers I think should rent not buy.
The Cubs have to seriously consider dumping Lou Piniella. I love Sweet Lou and I think he's a great manager. But it isn't working out in Chicago. The Cubs are not only playing brutal baseball, they are boring as well. When the Pirates stroll into Wrigley and kick your teeth in, there are problems.
Dave Trembley of the Orioles can't be feeling too secure. I don't know what he can do as a manager because he hasn't had any weapons to work with. The O's bullpen isn't so much a relief corp as it is a disaster area. And it's been that way for a long, long time. There is no reason why Baltimore can't have a very competitive team. Wait, there is. Peter Angelos. A once proud franchise has been cursed with a horrible owner in Angelos. At least there is hope for the future for Baltimore fans. Angelos is 80.
Ron Washington's Texas Rangers are in first place in the mild, mild AL West. But at 20-17 with a 2-game lead, I wouldn't be printing up playoff tickets just yet. Washington is just on 7-game losing streak or another cocaine binge away from being jettisoned. He's run out of second chances.
The Mets are a bad ballclub and riding a 4-game skid into today's action. Jerry Manuel's job is always in jeopardy and it wouldn't surprise me if he gets let go should the Mets slide into the basement. The last place Braves are just a half a game behind the Mets in the standings and should Manuel find himself in the cellar he might also find himself out of a job.
Another guy on the hot seat could be Ken Macha. The Brewers can hit the ball but they can't pitch, have lost 5 consecutive games coming into today and are going nowhere. Still, they should be better than they are. They can't win at home (4-13) and that is a sure sign that the natives are restless and could result in the skipper taking a hike.
So there is a list of five managers whose heads are on the chopping block, figuratively not literally. Piniella, Trembley, Washington, Manuel and Macha.
Glass is one of the worst owners in sports. He cares not about winning but turning a profit. If he was really interested in winning, he would get rid of the "small market" excuse, and put some of his Wal-Mart money into the ballclub.
Anyway, with Hillman the first managerial casualty of the season, I have put together a list of managers I think should rent not buy.
The Cubs have to seriously consider dumping Lou Piniella. I love Sweet Lou and I think he's a great manager. But it isn't working out in Chicago. The Cubs are not only playing brutal baseball, they are boring as well. When the Pirates stroll into Wrigley and kick your teeth in, there are problems.
Dave Trembley of the Orioles can't be feeling too secure. I don't know what he can do as a manager because he hasn't had any weapons to work with. The O's bullpen isn't so much a relief corp as it is a disaster area. And it's been that way for a long, long time. There is no reason why Baltimore can't have a very competitive team. Wait, there is. Peter Angelos. A once proud franchise has been cursed with a horrible owner in Angelos. At least there is hope for the future for Baltimore fans. Angelos is 80.
Ron Washington's Texas Rangers are in first place in the mild, mild AL West. But at 20-17 with a 2-game lead, I wouldn't be printing up playoff tickets just yet. Washington is just on 7-game losing streak or another cocaine binge away from being jettisoned. He's run out of second chances.
The Mets are a bad ballclub and riding a 4-game skid into today's action. Jerry Manuel's job is always in jeopardy and it wouldn't surprise me if he gets let go should the Mets slide into the basement. The last place Braves are just a half a game behind the Mets in the standings and should Manuel find himself in the cellar he might also find himself out of a job.
Another guy on the hot seat could be Ken Macha. The Brewers can hit the ball but they can't pitch, have lost 5 consecutive games coming into today and are going nowhere. Still, they should be better than they are. They can't win at home (4-13) and that is a sure sign that the natives are restless and could result in the skipper taking a hike.
So there is a list of five managers whose heads are on the chopping block, figuratively not literally. Piniella, Trembley, Washington, Manuel and Macha.
Here Come The Dodgers
The NL West is getting tighter with the Dodgers having won 6 in a row and the Rockies showing signs of life with a doubleheader win yesterday.
The only team that seems to have no shot are the Diamondbacks. I would have put the Padres in that realm but they've been a big surprise this year, at least to me.
The West should be fun all year but I still think the Rockies will win the division.
The only team that seems to have no shot are the Diamondbacks. I would have put the Padres in that realm but they've been a big surprise this year, at least to me.
The West should be fun all year but I still think the Rockies will win the division.
Ballgame Tonight at Double Angel
Sorry I haven't updated the blog in the last couple of days. I'm sure a lot of you are highly disappointed in me. Actually, I don't care! Just kidding, I love my readers, all 16 of them so far!
I'm not doing our radio show tonight. Andy, Casey, Brett and Justin will handle Artificial Turf this evening. It will be a good break for me to take a Sunday night on The Turf off.
Instead, I'll be playing baseball tonight. Our Denver Over-35 team has a night game as the 4-0 Stars take on the 3-0 Rebels in an early season showdown at Double Angel Field in Parker, Colorado. Game time 7 p.m.
Double Angel Field is a beautiful baseball facility. There are two fields, both with "Artificial Turf" and dirt infields. Nice dugouts, stands and lights. It's a fun place to play, especially when compared to some of the rock piles and goat pastures we normally play on. However, I wish the Double Angel facility was never built.
The fields were built in honor of young baseball players Logan and Dillon Dixey who tragically died from carbon monoxide poisoning in the summer of 2000 while swimming off a houseboat at Lake Powell.
This is the 5th year of operation for the two ballparks. The Double Angel Foundation, led by Logan and Dillon's parents Ken and Bambi Dixey, built not only a baseball facility but an amazing legacy to their sons and an awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning that has and will continue to save lives. On their website, www.doubleangel.org, it says, From Tragedy to Triumph. That truly sums it up. You should visit the website and learn some important facts about carbon monoxide poisoining and also about the ball fields.
I appreciate the fact that the old guys are allowed to play on such a nice field. But it would be better if we were playing elsewhere and Logan and Dillon were still with us.
I'm not doing our radio show tonight. Andy, Casey, Brett and Justin will handle Artificial Turf this evening. It will be a good break for me to take a Sunday night on The Turf off.
Instead, I'll be playing baseball tonight. Our Denver Over-35 team has a night game as the 4-0 Stars take on the 3-0 Rebels in an early season showdown at Double Angel Field in Parker, Colorado. Game time 7 p.m.
Double Angel Field is a beautiful baseball facility. There are two fields, both with "Artificial Turf" and dirt infields. Nice dugouts, stands and lights. It's a fun place to play, especially when compared to some of the rock piles and goat pastures we normally play on. However, I wish the Double Angel facility was never built.
The fields were built in honor of young baseball players Logan and Dillon Dixey who tragically died from carbon monoxide poisoning in the summer of 2000 while swimming off a houseboat at Lake Powell.
This is the 5th year of operation for the two ballparks. The Double Angel Foundation, led by Logan and Dillon's parents Ken and Bambi Dixey, built not only a baseball facility but an amazing legacy to their sons and an awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning that has and will continue to save lives. On their website, www.doubleangel.org, it says, From Tragedy to Triumph. That truly sums it up. You should visit the website and learn some important facts about carbon monoxide poisoining and also about the ball fields.
I appreciate the fact that the old guys are allowed to play on such a nice field. But it would be better if we were playing elsewhere and Logan and Dillon were still with us.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
So You're Saying There's A Chance
Mariano Rivera needed the work. He hadn't pitched at all in the month of May. So last night at Comerica Park, Joe Girardi brought in the Yankees closer in the bottom of the 9th against the Tigers. The Yanks were leading 8-0 and I thought, "Well, Yanks up a bunch, Mariano in the game to just get three outs. Mmmmm. I wonder what the odds are that Detroit will come back and win this game?"
Well, I did the mathematics and the odds of that happening were 759,000,000,000,503 to 1.
Three batters, 12 pitches and one strikeout later, the ball game was over. The Tigers just couldn't overcome the odds.
Well, I did the mathematics and the odds of that happening were 759,000,000,000,503 to 1.
Three batters, 12 pitches and one strikeout later, the ball game was over. The Tigers just couldn't overcome the odds.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Who's Directing This?
I couldn't go to Coors Field today for the first of a day/night doubleheader between the Phillies and Rockies.
All week we've heard this and that about Phils pitcher Roy Halladay, from Arvada West High, making his first appearance at Coors Field. Local Boy Roy's homecoming.
Brad Hawpe has just hit a triple to drive in 2 runs and make the score 3-3 in the bottom of the 7th. That knocked Halladay out of the game.
Philly skipper Charlie Manuel walked out to the bullpen to bring in a reliever. Now, a television director who knows baseball would have kept the camera on Halladay and we could have seen him walk off the mound to the cheers of the crowd. It would have been a nice moment. Instead we have George "I never shut up" Frazier talking non-sense over the moment and then before Halladay even gets off the mound Fox Sports Rocky Mountain goes to commercial. A nice moment lost.
Sometimes TV directors baffle me with their incompetence. Instead of telling Frazier to pipe down in his headset and let the pictures tell the story, we get Frazier yapping and a commercial. Drew Goodman, the Rocks play-by-play guy would have remained quiet, let the crowd and pictures tell the story and he would have wrapped it up with an intelligent comment and then gone to commercial.
Maybe I'm asking too much.
All week we've heard this and that about Phils pitcher Roy Halladay, from Arvada West High, making his first appearance at Coors Field. Local Boy Roy's homecoming.
Brad Hawpe has just hit a triple to drive in 2 runs and make the score 3-3 in the bottom of the 7th. That knocked Halladay out of the game.
Philly skipper Charlie Manuel walked out to the bullpen to bring in a reliever. Now, a television director who knows baseball would have kept the camera on Halladay and we could have seen him walk off the mound to the cheers of the crowd. It would have been a nice moment. Instead we have George "I never shut up" Frazier talking non-sense over the moment and then before Halladay even gets off the mound Fox Sports Rocky Mountain goes to commercial. A nice moment lost.
Sometimes TV directors baffle me with their incompetence. Instead of telling Frazier to pipe down in his headset and let the pictures tell the story, we get Frazier yapping and a commercial. Drew Goodman, the Rocks play-by-play guy would have remained quiet, let the crowd and pictures tell the story and he would have wrapped it up with an intelligent comment and then gone to commercial.
Maybe I'm asking too much.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Two Rainouts and The Nats Blew It.
Well, I didn't go to Coors Field tonight, figuring, correctly, that the game would get banged by rain. Doubleheader tomorrow but I don't think they'll get them in since the forecast is "crappy followed by more crappy with additional crappy sprinkled in."
So, my backup plan was to watch the Yankees take on the Tigers. Well, that game was also called due to rain.
Alright, I'll watch the Nationals play the Mets. Things were great until the 8th when the Mets rallied from a 6-2 deficit. Tyler Clipper messed the bed in relief. He was so bad I wanted to grab a bat. Mets won it 8-6. Ugh.
By the way, I do like the look of the Mets new ballpark. However, it just doesn't look right with the Mets playing at Citi Field. They look out of place and I wish they were still playing at Shea Stadium. Shea has been leveled of course and it was a crummy place. But I had some good memories of going to games there, mostly when the Mets lost. Also saw a bunch of Jets games there in the Joe Namath era. Funny, schools and bridges are falling apart in New York City, there are budget shortfalls all over the place, buildings are crumbling, yet NYC saw the need to build two brand new baseball stadiums. There is no reason that Yankee Stadium and Shea Stadium couldn't have lived another few decades.
So, my backup plan was to watch the Yankees take on the Tigers. Well, that game was also called due to rain.
Alright, I'll watch the Nationals play the Mets. Things were great until the 8th when the Mets rallied from a 6-2 deficit. Tyler Clipper messed the bed in relief. He was so bad I wanted to grab a bat. Mets won it 8-6. Ugh.
By the way, I do like the look of the Mets new ballpark. However, it just doesn't look right with the Mets playing at Citi Field. They look out of place and I wish they were still playing at Shea Stadium. Shea has been leveled of course and it was a crummy place. But I had some good memories of going to games there, mostly when the Mets lost. Also saw a bunch of Jets games there in the Joe Namath era. Funny, schools and bridges are falling apart in New York City, there are budget shortfalls all over the place, buildings are crumbling, yet NYC saw the need to build two brand new baseball stadiums. There is no reason that Yankee Stadium and Shea Stadium couldn't have lived another few decades.
42 Years Ago Today
Saturday May 11th, 1968 was a most memorable day for me. I was 6-years old and my dad took me to Yankee Stadium to see the Yanks take on the Red Sox. I hated the Bostons even back then. My animosity for them has only grown through the years.
My dad and me got to the Stadium early and sat in the right field bleachers. However, it started to drizzle shortly before the game so we exchanged our tickets to the general admission seats in the right field lower deck where we usually sat anyway.
In the original Yankee Stadium the only way to get from the bleachers to the grandstand was to cut across the bullpen. The Yankees bullpen was between the bleachers and the grandstand.
Our trip to the grandstand was delayed because Mel Stottlemyre was warming up for the Yanks. So we stood under the bleachers, about 15 feet from Stottlemyre, watching him warm up for about 10-minutes. After he finished, he walked right by us. I stuck my arm out and he stuck his arm out and just the tips of our fingers touched. Then an usher let us walk across the bullpen into the grandstand.
As for the game, Roy White hit a home run into the RF bullpen and Stottlemyre went the distance to give the Yanks the 1-0 win.
The next day, in the newspaper (Daily News I believe), the back page photo showed the ball heading into the bullpen and a bunch of people in the bleachers watching. It was where we were sitting until we moved due to the rain. We would have been in the picture had we stayed in that spot. But I liked watching Stottlemyre warm up better.
Looking at the boxscore on baseball-reference.com, some of the players participating in that game included Carl Yastrzemski, Rico Petrocelli, Reggie Smith and Hawk Harrelson for the Bosox. In addition to Stottlemyre and White, the Yanks had Horace Clarke, Joe Pepitone and future Hall of Fame manager Bobby Cox manning third base in the lineup.
I can't remember what happened yesterday but the memory of that game has stayed with me. It was quite a day.
My dad and me got to the Stadium early and sat in the right field bleachers. However, it started to drizzle shortly before the game so we exchanged our tickets to the general admission seats in the right field lower deck where we usually sat anyway.
In the original Yankee Stadium the only way to get from the bleachers to the grandstand was to cut across the bullpen. The Yankees bullpen was between the bleachers and the grandstand.
Our trip to the grandstand was delayed because Mel Stottlemyre was warming up for the Yanks. So we stood under the bleachers, about 15 feet from Stottlemyre, watching him warm up for about 10-minutes. After he finished, he walked right by us. I stuck my arm out and he stuck his arm out and just the tips of our fingers touched. Then an usher let us walk across the bullpen into the grandstand.
As for the game, Roy White hit a home run into the RF bullpen and Stottlemyre went the distance to give the Yanks the 1-0 win.
The next day, in the newspaper (Daily News I believe), the back page photo showed the ball heading into the bullpen and a bunch of people in the bleachers watching. It was where we were sitting until we moved due to the rain. We would have been in the picture had we stayed in that spot. But I liked watching Stottlemyre warm up better.
Looking at the boxscore on baseball-reference.com, some of the players participating in that game included Carl Yastrzemski, Rico Petrocelli, Reggie Smith and Hawk Harrelson for the Bosox. In addition to Stottlemyre and White, the Yanks had Horace Clarke, Joe Pepitone and future Hall of Fame manager Bobby Cox manning third base in the lineup.
I can't remember what happened yesterday but the memory of that game has stayed with me. It was quite a day.
The Whiffer
The Nationals are now 4-games over .500 after beating the Mets 3-2 last night at Shea...check that Citi Field. What an awful name for a ballpark.
Anyway, Mets third baseman David Wright had a string of 9-consecutive strikeouts broken last evening when he popped out. The fans cheered. That's progress!
Wright has struck out 14-times in his last 7-games. If Wright can't hit the ball the Mets can't win. Which is fine by me.
Anyway, Mets third baseman David Wright had a string of 9-consecutive strikeouts broken last evening when he popped out. The fans cheered. That's progress!
Wright has struck out 14-times in his last 7-games. If Wright can't hit the ball the Mets can't win. Which is fine by me.
May in Colorado
I'm usually a big fan of baseball in the month of May. Mostly because the weather, cold in April, warms up in May.
Not always the case though in Denver.
I was looking forward to spending this evening at Coors Field watching the Phillies and Rockies in a rematch of last years playoff series. Also, Roy Halladay will be pitching for Philly. It will be the first Major League game for the Colorado native at Coors Field...weather permitting.
I'm not quite as pumped up to go to the yard tonight when the forecast calls for rain and snow with a low temperature of 32. Really? It's May freaking 11th and that is the weather served up? I love Colorado but I hate the crappy weather here.
People might say, "The winters are relatively mild." That's all fine and good but I'd rather have brutal winter weather with the promise that we would have normal, warm and dry weather in May when I want to go to the ballpark to watch a freaking baseball game without dressing like an Eskimo.
Anyway, we'll see if they get the game in.
Not always the case though in Denver.
I was looking forward to spending this evening at Coors Field watching the Phillies and Rockies in a rematch of last years playoff series. Also, Roy Halladay will be pitching for Philly. It will be the first Major League game for the Colorado native at Coors Field...weather permitting.
I'm not quite as pumped up to go to the yard tonight when the forecast calls for rain and snow with a low temperature of 32. Really? It's May freaking 11th and that is the weather served up? I love Colorado but I hate the crappy weather here.
People might say, "The winters are relatively mild." That's all fine and good but I'd rather have brutal winter weather with the promise that we would have normal, warm and dry weather in May when I want to go to the ballpark to watch a freaking baseball game without dressing like an Eskimo.
Anyway, we'll see if they get the game in.
Shout Out To Arthur
Watching the highlights this morning, I saw Reds relief pitcher Arthur Rhodes get a lefty out. That's his job.
I thought, how long has Rhodes been around? Seems like forever doesn't it?
Well, Arthur Rhodes, lefty specialist is pitching in his 19th big league season. 19- seasons? I don't care who you are or what your role is. If you spend 19-years in the Major Leagues that is impressive.
Rhodes is 40 and still an effective reliever. So while he's been a good pitcher for just about his entire career, he hasn't been around forever. Just seems like it. Good for him.
I thought, how long has Rhodes been around? Seems like forever doesn't it?
Well, Arthur Rhodes, lefty specialist is pitching in his 19th big league season. 19- seasons? I don't care who you are or what your role is. If you spend 19-years in the Major Leagues that is impressive.
Rhodes is 40 and still an effective reliever. So while he's been a good pitcher for just about his entire career, he hasn't been around forever. Just seems like it. Good for him.
Monday, May 10, 2010
The Humidor
I've often wondered, can the Rockies slip non-humidor baseballs into the game when they are down a run or two late in the game?
Obviously, the humidor has made games at Coors Field more realistic as opposed to the launching pad it was before the humidor. But aren't there times, when the Rockies come to bat, that a batboy can hand the umpire a few non-humidor balls?
Would that be considered cheating? Actually, I prefer to call it gamesmanship.
Can umpires tell the difference between a humidored ball and a non-humidored ball?
I bet if Leo Durocher or John McGraw were managing the Rockies they would figure out a way for Colorado to hit against non-humidor balls. That's the problem with the Rockies organization. They are too damn honorable for their own good.
Obviously, the humidor has made games at Coors Field more realistic as opposed to the launching pad it was before the humidor. But aren't there times, when the Rockies come to bat, that a batboy can hand the umpire a few non-humidor balls?
Would that be considered cheating? Actually, I prefer to call it gamesmanship.
Can umpires tell the difference between a humidored ball and a non-humidored ball?
I bet if Leo Durocher or John McGraw were managing the Rockies they would figure out a way for Colorado to hit against non-humidor balls. That's the problem with the Rockies organization. They are too damn honorable for their own good.
Lesser Known Unwritten Baseball Rules...
Here are some lesser known unwritten rules of baseball……
Players who weigh over 250 pounds are allowed to eat hot dogs in the dugout during the game.
Jim Leyland is not allowed to smoke in the vicinity of players hitting above .300. However if you are hitting below .250 he is allowed to blow smoke in your face.
Utility infielders are obligated to help the grounds crew manicure the field before and after the game.
Pitchers are allowed to use the rosin bag no more than 14 times in one inning unless the temperature climbs above 95-degrees. Then they are allowed to use the rosin bag 17-times in an inning but no more.
Umpires may not sing show tunes at any time while on the field except when going over the ground rules with the managers before the game.
Only right-fielders can urinate on the field during a pitching change.
Catchers have to catch one inning per game without a cup.
Handing a young fan a tin of tobacco to go along with an autograph is acceptable if you are a visiting player only.
It is mandatory that either the manager or a member of the coaching staff wear a jacket even if it is over 90 degrees out. This burden usually falls on the fattest member of the coaching staff.
First and third base coaches have to at least make a token wave of foul balls.
Managers have to continually lean forward and scrunch their eyebrows as if they are interested in what is going on during the game, even if it is 14-2 in the 5th inning.
Each team has to have a designated “point to the sky guy” for any good play he, or a teammate, makes.
Turning double plays is considered “showing up” the other team.
Every team is required to have one “wacky” or “flaky” left-handed relief pitcher.
When panning the crowd for fans in the stands, TV directors and cameramen are required to show a hot babe, followed by a kid with mustard stains on his face, then another hot babe, followed by an old couple that haven’t spoken to each other for five years and then another hot babe.
All “funny” highlights have to show at least three players taking hard shots to the balls.
Yelling, “Hey CC, only one to a pair of pants” is considered to be in poor taste.
Having your batting average already calculated when you run to first base on a single is alright. However, it is frowned upon to tell the first baseman where your average currently stands.
It is an unwritten baseball rule to write down unwritten baseball rules.
Players who weigh over 250 pounds are allowed to eat hot dogs in the dugout during the game.
Jim Leyland is not allowed to smoke in the vicinity of players hitting above .300. However if you are hitting below .250 he is allowed to blow smoke in your face.
Utility infielders are obligated to help the grounds crew manicure the field before and after the game.
Pitchers are allowed to use the rosin bag no more than 14 times in one inning unless the temperature climbs above 95-degrees. Then they are allowed to use the rosin bag 17-times in an inning but no more.
Umpires may not sing show tunes at any time while on the field except when going over the ground rules with the managers before the game.
Only right-fielders can urinate on the field during a pitching change.
Catchers have to catch one inning per game without a cup.
Handing a young fan a tin of tobacco to go along with an autograph is acceptable if you are a visiting player only.
It is mandatory that either the manager or a member of the coaching staff wear a jacket even if it is over 90 degrees out. This burden usually falls on the fattest member of the coaching staff.
First and third base coaches have to at least make a token wave of foul balls.
Managers have to continually lean forward and scrunch their eyebrows as if they are interested in what is going on during the game, even if it is 14-2 in the 5th inning.
Each team has to have a designated “point to the sky guy” for any good play he, or a teammate, makes.
Turning double plays is considered “showing up” the other team.
Every team is required to have one “wacky” or “flaky” left-handed relief pitcher.
When panning the crowd for fans in the stands, TV directors and cameramen are required to show a hot babe, followed by a kid with mustard stains on his face, then another hot babe, followed by an old couple that haven’t spoken to each other for five years and then another hot babe.
All “funny” highlights have to show at least three players taking hard shots to the balls.
Yelling, “Hey CC, only one to a pair of pants” is considered to be in poor taste.
Having your batting average already calculated when you run to first base on a single is alright. However, it is frowned upon to tell the first baseman where your average currently stands.
It is an unwritten baseball rule to write down unwritten baseball rules.
Dallas Braden
Before yesterday, Dallas Braden was known as "the guy who yelled at A-Rod" for running across the pitcher's mound during a game last month.
Now he's known as one of the 19 pitchers to ever throw a perfect game. He did it against a powerful offensive team too, shutting down the Rays.
I only saw the 9th inning and he looked pretty calm and subdued. Hard to believe that a guy who averages just 87 MPH on his fastball could throw a perfect game but that is the beauty of baseball. You never know when such a great moment will arise. I'm sure that the 12-thousand plus people who showed up at the Oakland Coliseum weren't thinking about a perfect game but it is something that they'll never forget.
Meanwhile, I was reading about Braden's perfecto on ESPN.com. In the comments section some guy wrote the following...
"Who cares. Baseball is such a ridiculous sport. A mediocre player from a sub-500 team does something statistically improbable and I am supposed to be excited. How about winning a playoff series or doing something meaninful. Baseball is the glorificaton of the individual and the statistical. Who cares."
Sounds like something Andy Cornell would write. And yes, this particular poster spelled meaningful and glorification wrong which also leads me to believe it could have been something Andy, my trusty radio co-host would write.
By the way, the first year of the National League was 1876, the first season of the American League was 1901. From 1876 until 1980 there were just nine perfect games thrown. From 1981 to today, there have been 10 perfectos dealt. We are living in the golden age of perfect games.
Now he's known as one of the 19 pitchers to ever throw a perfect game. He did it against a powerful offensive team too, shutting down the Rays.
I only saw the 9th inning and he looked pretty calm and subdued. Hard to believe that a guy who averages just 87 MPH on his fastball could throw a perfect game but that is the beauty of baseball. You never know when such a great moment will arise. I'm sure that the 12-thousand plus people who showed up at the Oakland Coliseum weren't thinking about a perfect game but it is something that they'll never forget.
Meanwhile, I was reading about Braden's perfecto on ESPN.com. In the comments section some guy wrote the following...
"Who cares. Baseball is such a ridiculous sport. A mediocre player from a sub-500 team does something statistically improbable and I am supposed to be excited. How about winning a playoff series or doing something meaninful. Baseball is the glorificaton of the individual and the statistical. Who cares."
Sounds like something Andy Cornell would write. And yes, this particular poster spelled meaningful and glorification wrong which also leads me to believe it could have been something Andy, my trusty radio co-host would write.
By the way, the first year of the National League was 1876, the first season of the American League was 1901. From 1876 until 1980 there were just nine perfect games thrown. From 1981 to today, there have been 10 perfectos dealt. We are living in the golden age of perfect games.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
A Different Fenway
I love Fenway Park. I've been there many times, the first being June 24, 1983. That Friday night Don Mattingly belted his first career homer for the Yanks. Ironically, it was June 24 because the man that Mattingly replaced on the Yankees roster was Bobby Murcer, who 13-years earlier belted 4 home runs at Yankees Stadium in a doubleheader against the Indians on June 24. I was at that doubleheader with my cousin Charlie and my dad.
Anyway, while watching the Yanks-Sox last night and again today, I notice that Fenway doesn't look like it once did. First of all there are more seats, which for Red Sox fans is a good thing. The seats above the green monster look like a great vantage point to take in a game.
But I finally figured it out. Fenway looks different because of all the advertising. Fenway has gone from a classic looking ballpark to a ballpark that looks like a cheap prostitute.
I may be getting on Fenway here a bit but a lot of ballparks look like $20 hookers these days. Too much advertising. On the outfield walls, behind home plate, on the scoreboard, on the facades, in the dugouts, on the foul poles...everywhere you look there is advertising. I don't mind some ads because teams need to produce revenue to pay their players but at some point someone has to say, "No more. We have too much already. Our park is beginning to look like the Yellow Pages."
It's only a matter of time until we see advertising on the uniforms. All it will take is some team to put a small McDonalds patch or a Pepsi patch on their uni and then the floodgates will open. Teams will start looking like European soccer teams and that certainly isn't a good look at all.
Anyway, while watching the Yanks-Sox last night and again today, I notice that Fenway doesn't look like it once did. First of all there are more seats, which for Red Sox fans is a good thing. The seats above the green monster look like a great vantage point to take in a game.
But I finally figured it out. Fenway looks different because of all the advertising. Fenway has gone from a classic looking ballpark to a ballpark that looks like a cheap prostitute.
I may be getting on Fenway here a bit but a lot of ballparks look like $20 hookers these days. Too much advertising. On the outfield walls, behind home plate, on the scoreboard, on the facades, in the dugouts, on the foul poles...everywhere you look there is advertising. I don't mind some ads because teams need to produce revenue to pay their players but at some point someone has to say, "No more. We have too much already. Our park is beginning to look like the Yellow Pages."
It's only a matter of time until we see advertising on the uniforms. All it will take is some team to put a small McDonalds patch or a Pepsi patch on their uni and then the floodgates will open. Teams will start looking like European soccer teams and that certainly isn't a good look at all.
The Anti-Cal
Yankees DH Nick Johnson is on the disabled list with a right wrist injury. How a guy who is only a DH gets hurt is a mystery to me. Anyway, Johnson is hitting .167 with 2 homers and 8 RBI's. I don't think Yankees fans are too broken up about Johnson heading to the DL.
The position on his baseball card, instead of saying DH or 1B should say DL. The Yanks should just dump this guy. Give him his money and escort him from the stadium, making sure he doesn't get hurt on the way out so he doesn't file suit against the club.
The position on his baseball card, instead of saying DH or 1B should say DL. The Yanks should just dump this guy. Give him his money and escort him from the stadium, making sure he doesn't get hurt on the way out so he doesn't file suit against the club.
Friday, May 7, 2010
The Amazing Moyer
Jaime Moyer, 47, threw a two-hitter tonight with 5 strikeouts and no walks in the Phillies 7-0 win over the Braves.
Just when everybody counts him out, the ancient lefty keeps plugging along. He's now 4-2 on the season and continues to baffle opposing batsmen with 75 mile per hour fastballs.
Yet there are guys like Jasom Hammell and Kyle Farnsworth who can throw a ball through a brick wall yet can't get hitters out because they have no concept on how to pitch.
Moyer will make a great pitching coach someday. If he ever retires.
Just when everybody counts him out, the ancient lefty keeps plugging along. He's now 4-2 on the season and continues to baffle opposing batsmen with 75 mile per hour fastballs.
Yet there are guys like Jasom Hammell and Kyle Farnsworth who can throw a ball through a brick wall yet can't get hitters out because they have no concept on how to pitch.
Moyer will make a great pitching coach someday. If he ever retires.
What Would O.J. Do?
In one of the most entertaining divorce cases in recent memory Dodgers owner Frank McCourt has to pay his irritating wife Jamie $637,159 a month for spousal support and to pay the mortgages on six homes and a condo.
McCourt is pleading poverty as he only pays himself 5-million per year salary as owner of the ball club.
Jamie McCourt had asked for 988-grand per month while Frank wanted to pay her 150-grand per month.
Both McCourts were claiming they were strapped for cash. Makes me feel very sad when multi-millionaires are strapped for cash. How about selling a couple of houses and cutting back on the spending a little bit if you are down on cash.
Apparently Frankie is stewing while Jamie is pleased with the settlement.
Next up, who owns the Dodgers? Jamie says she's the co-owner while Frank claims he the sole owner of the team.
The plot thickens. If I'm a Dodgers fan I hope these two "cash-strapped" morons sell the team.
McCourt is pleading poverty as he only pays himself 5-million per year salary as owner of the ball club.
Jamie McCourt had asked for 988-grand per month while Frank wanted to pay her 150-grand per month.
Both McCourts were claiming they were strapped for cash. Makes me feel very sad when multi-millionaires are strapped for cash. How about selling a couple of houses and cutting back on the spending a little bit if you are down on cash.
Apparently Frankie is stewing while Jamie is pleased with the settlement.
Next up, who owns the Dodgers? Jamie says she's the co-owner while Frank claims he the sole owner of the team.
The plot thickens. If I'm a Dodgers fan I hope these two "cash-strapped" morons sell the team.
A Pleasant Surprise
Siting here in my studio at KNUS, prepping for Sunday night's show, I flipped the TV on to the MLB Network and the start of the Red Sox-Tigers game. Actually, a Red Sox-Tigers game played on September 18, 1996 at old Tiger Stadium. At the mike? Ernie Harwell. By the way, Alan Trammell is at second base for the Tigers, one of just 11 games he played at second. Also, Nomar Garciaparra is at short for the Bostons, his rookie season and Roger Clemens, pre-steroids, is on the hill. He would make only two more starts in a Red Sox uniform.
Thank you MLB Network for showing a game at beautiful Tiger Stadium with the great Ernie Harwell in the broadcast booth. Baseball perfection.
Work can wait.
Thank you MLB Network for showing a game at beautiful Tiger Stadium with the great Ernie Harwell in the broadcast booth. Baseball perfection.
Work can wait.
Done Yet?
What in the world is going on with the Angels?
While they lost John Lackey and Chone Figgins in the off-season, one could still expect the funadmentally sound, well managed Halos to continue to be a factor in the AL West.
Well, coming off getting swept by the Red Sox, the Angels are just 12-18 with a run differential of -48. They've lost 7 in a row.
So, is it over?
No. They are just 3 1/2 games out of first place and when you are chasing the Rangers and the Athletics I don't think you hit the panic button just yet. But I am stunned at how lousy the Angels look.
Even worse the Mariners, my pick to win the mild, mild West. Seattle is working on a 6-game losing streak and are just 11-17. Still, they too are just 3 1/2 games out but if they don't start hitting the ball it could be a long summer in the Emerald City.
Tonight one of those losing streaks will end since the Angels visit the M's this weekend.
While they lost John Lackey and Chone Figgins in the off-season, one could still expect the funadmentally sound, well managed Halos to continue to be a factor in the AL West.
Well, coming off getting swept by the Red Sox, the Angels are just 12-18 with a run differential of -48. They've lost 7 in a row.
So, is it over?
No. They are just 3 1/2 games out of first place and when you are chasing the Rangers and the Athletics I don't think you hit the panic button just yet. But I am stunned at how lousy the Angels look.
Even worse the Mariners, my pick to win the mild, mild West. Seattle is working on a 6-game losing streak and are just 11-17. Still, they too are just 3 1/2 games out but if they don't start hitting the ball it could be a long summer in the Emerald City.
Tonight one of those losing streaks will end since the Angels visit the M's this weekend.
Andre The Dodger
When the game is on the line, one of the last players I want to see at the plate if I'm the opposing pitcher is Andre Ethier.
The Dodgers right fielder belted a walk-off grand slam off LaTroy Hawkins to give LA a 7-3 win over the Brewers last night.
Ethier has 11 walk-off hits since 2008. It seems like more. One of the prettiest swings in the game Ethier is fast becoming a must watch at-bat. Especially with the game on the line.
The Dodgers right fielder belted a walk-off grand slam off LaTroy Hawkins to give LA a 7-3 win over the Brewers last night.
Ethier has 11 walk-off hits since 2008. It seems like more. One of the prettiest swings in the game Ethier is fast becoming a must watch at-bat. Especially with the game on the line.
Another Legend Passes
Phillies Hall of Famer Robin Roberts died yesterday. He was 83.
It hasn't been a great week for baseball with Ernie Harwell passing and now the best righthanded pitcher in Phils history.
I first heard of Roberts when Catfish Hunter was pitching. Hunter was compared to Roberts because they both gave up a lot of home runs. They were splendid control pitchers and hitters didn't have to worry about getting hit. But most of the home runs they gave up were solo shots.
One thing that is astounding to me about Roberts, as I looked up his stats, were his innings pitched and complete game totals. From 1950 through 1955, he won 20 or more games in all six seasons with 158 complete games. In each of those seasons he compiled more than 300-innings. By comparison, current Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay leads all current Major League pitchers with 52 complete games. Livan Hernandez is next with 48.
In 1952 Roberts put together a 28-7 season but most old time Phillies fans will always remember his win in 1950 over the Dodgers at Ebbets Field on the last day of the season that gave Philadelphia the National League pennant and a trip to the World Series. It was a 4-1, 10-inning victory for the Phils. Yes, Roberts went the distance.
It hasn't been a great week for baseball with Ernie Harwell passing and now the best righthanded pitcher in Phils history.
I first heard of Roberts when Catfish Hunter was pitching. Hunter was compared to Roberts because they both gave up a lot of home runs. They were splendid control pitchers and hitters didn't have to worry about getting hit. But most of the home runs they gave up were solo shots.
One thing that is astounding to me about Roberts, as I looked up his stats, were his innings pitched and complete game totals. From 1950 through 1955, he won 20 or more games in all six seasons with 158 complete games. In each of those seasons he compiled more than 300-innings. By comparison, current Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay leads all current Major League pitchers with 52 complete games. Livan Hernandez is next with 48.
In 1952 Roberts put together a 28-7 season but most old time Phillies fans will always remember his win in 1950 over the Dodgers at Ebbets Field on the last day of the season that gave Philadelphia the National League pennant and a trip to the World Series. It was a 4-1, 10-inning victory for the Phils. Yes, Roberts went the distance.
Yanks-Sox-Fenway-'Nuff Said
The Yankees and Red Sox, both riding 4-game winning streaks, open a 3-game series tonight at Fenway Park.
Tonight's game will be on MLB Network, tomorrow afternoon's contest on Fox and Sunday night's affair will be shown on ESPN.
Already people are complaining, "They show the Yankees and Red Sox all the time. I'm sick of the Yankees and Red Sox."
My response? Deal with it. It's the Yankees versus the Red Sox, the best rivalry in sports. By far.
Or, would you rather focus in on the Brewers-Diamondbacks matchup at whatever they call that monstrosity of a ballpark in Arizona?
I just hope fat Joe West isn't umpiring tonight at Fenway.
Tonight's game will be on MLB Network, tomorrow afternoon's contest on Fox and Sunday night's affair will be shown on ESPN.
Already people are complaining, "They show the Yankees and Red Sox all the time. I'm sick of the Yankees and Red Sox."
My response? Deal with it. It's the Yankees versus the Red Sox, the best rivalry in sports. By far.
Or, would you rather focus in on the Brewers-Diamondbacks matchup at whatever they call that monstrosity of a ballpark in Arizona?
I just hope fat Joe West isn't umpiring tonight at Fenway.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Goodbye Ernie
While watching the Orioles-Yankees game last night I learned of the passing of Tigers legendary announcer Ernie Harwell. He spent 42 years announcing Detroit Tigers baseball and the other 13-years he was in a Major League booth he called Brooklyn Dodgers, New York Giants and Baltimore Orioles games. He called more than 8,300 games in 55-years announcing big league baseball.
We'll read many great tributes and about Ernie today and the funny thing is, they'll all be true.
My friend Rick Schultz, when he began his baseball announcing career while still at Fordham University, wrote a letter to Ernie Harwell, just to say that he enjoyed listening to Ernie's broadcasts and that he admired him. Not long after Rick got a call at his house. "Hi Rick, this is Ernie Harwell." Ernie apologized about not getting back to him sooner. Yes Rick was floored. Especially since he didn't give Ernie his phone number.
On the Rockies game on TV last evening, Colorado color analyst Jeff Huson talked about being able to hear Ernie broadcast while he was in the on-deck circle and in the batters box at old Tiger Stadium. The crowds weren't very big at the time and the broadcast booth was right behind home plate and close to the field. Huson said it was "surreal" to be in the batters box and hearing Ernie talk about him.
Ernie was a guest on our radio show, "Artificial Turf" in 2003, the first year of our program. I interviewed him with Jeff Andrews my original Turf co-host. We will replay the interview on our show this Sunday night along with Ernie's famous "This is Baseball" speech at his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Ernie Harwell will be missed but never forgotten. He was 92. It was a good run. No, it was a great run.
We'll read many great tributes and about Ernie today and the funny thing is, they'll all be true.
My friend Rick Schultz, when he began his baseball announcing career while still at Fordham University, wrote a letter to Ernie Harwell, just to say that he enjoyed listening to Ernie's broadcasts and that he admired him. Not long after Rick got a call at his house. "Hi Rick, this is Ernie Harwell." Ernie apologized about not getting back to him sooner. Yes Rick was floored. Especially since he didn't give Ernie his phone number.
On the Rockies game on TV last evening, Colorado color analyst Jeff Huson talked about being able to hear Ernie broadcast while he was in the on-deck circle and in the batters box at old Tiger Stadium. The crowds weren't very big at the time and the broadcast booth was right behind home plate and close to the field. Huson said it was "surreal" to be in the batters box and hearing Ernie talk about him.
Ernie was a guest on our radio show, "Artificial Turf" in 2003, the first year of our program. I interviewed him with Jeff Andrews my original Turf co-host. We will replay the interview on our show this Sunday night along with Ernie's famous "This is Baseball" speech at his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Ernie Harwell will be missed but never forgotten. He was 92. It was a good run. No, it was a great run.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Masterpiece
I knew the Padres were in trouble when Ubaldo Jimenez hit 100 and 101 on the radar gun with his second and third pitches of the game last night. Shoot, I knew San Diego was in deep doo-doo when Ubaldo was the scheduled starter.
Now 6-0, Jimenez struck out a career best 13 in just 7-innings of work. But it wasn't a totally great night for Jimenez. His ERA skyrocketed from 0.79 to 0.87.
Since it will be brought up sooner or later, I might as well bring it up now. Who starts the All-Star Game for the National League. Candidates please step forward...Jimenez, Tim Lincecum and Roy Halladay. Not so fast Greg Smith.
Now 6-0, Jimenez struck out a career best 13 in just 7-innings of work. But it wasn't a totally great night for Jimenez. His ERA skyrocketed from 0.79 to 0.87.
Since it will be brought up sooner or later, I might as well bring it up now. Who starts the All-Star Game for the National League. Candidates please step forward...Jimenez, Tim Lincecum and Roy Halladay. Not so fast Greg Smith.
Monday, May 3, 2010
A Heel of a Guy
Joe Mauer is out of action with a bruised heel. Doesn't sound too bad unless you know what a bruised heel feels like. Not fun, especially if you are a catcher. The Twins and Mauer don't know when he'll be back. A couple of days? A month or more? Hard to say.
Since Mauer is out of action I hope that the commercial he's in for that video game he's on the cover of is taken out of circulation. You know, the one that runs 10 times an hour on MLB Network and ends with the pasty faced fellow saying, "Well played Mauer."
It was funny the first 400 times I saw it now I just want it to go away. Like the Nuggets. Ooops, wrong sport.
Since Mauer is out of action I hope that the commercial he's in for that video game he's on the cover of is taken out of circulation. You know, the one that runs 10 times an hour on MLB Network and ends with the pasty faced fellow saying, "Well played Mauer."
It was funny the first 400 times I saw it now I just want it to go away. Like the Nuggets. Ooops, wrong sport.
Robby versus Little Dusty
A couple of years ago I was so frustrated by Yankee second baseman Robinson Cano's frequent mental lapses that I wanted to ship him out.
I would have sent Cano to Boston for their second baseman Dustin Pedroia who turned out to be the AL MVP.
Would you make that trade now? I wouldn't.
While Pedroia is a great player, Cano is even better. He's hitting .387 with 9 homers and 21 RBI's while making some tremendous plays in the field. I wouldn't trade Cano for anyone in baseball right now. Go ahead, name a better second baseman.
I would have sent Cano to Boston for their second baseman Dustin Pedroia who turned out to be the AL MVP.
Would you make that trade now? I wouldn't.
While Pedroia is a great player, Cano is even better. He's hitting .387 with 9 homers and 21 RBI's while making some tremendous plays in the field. I wouldn't trade Cano for anyone in baseball right now. Go ahead, name a better second baseman.
Evander
Former heavyweight champeen Evander Holyfield was at yesteray's 7-1 Braves win over the Astros in Atlanta. He was sitting in a front row seat and caught a foul ball.
My first thought was, nice, the former champ got a foul ball. My second thought was, how does he afford those seats? He's broke with a lot of kids running around.
My first thought was, nice, the former champ got a foul ball. My second thought was, how does he afford those seats? He's broke with a lot of kids running around.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
World Series Ring
I was just watching highlights of the Kansas City Royals-Toronto Blue Jays 7-game American League Championship Series on MLB-TV.
They were showing a close-up of Royals Manager Dick Howser and I remembered a fond memory from my youth.
In 1978, I was at a baseball camp in Pennington, New Jersey. They would bring in guest instructors, mainly from the nearby Major League teams, the Yankees, Mets and Phillies.
This particular morning, Dick Howser, then the Yankees third base coach, was a guest instructor. I vividly recall him discussing hitting and base running. I also noticed the 1977 World Series ring on his finger, earned when the Yankees defeated the Dodgers in 6-games, highlighted by Reggie Jackson's three home runs in the clincher.
Anyway, at lunchtime, I was sitting at a table in the cafeteria when Howser sat down across from me. He must have seen me staring at his ring because he took it off, handed it to me and said, "Try it on."
I did. It was heavy and impressive. Displaying my comedic skills at an early age I asked, "Can I keep it?"
Howser laughed. I was kidding. Sort of.
Every day I dreamed that one day I would get a World Series ring of my own. Never happened.
But I still remember the feeling I got when I had a chance to put Howser's World Series ring on my finger.
Howser of course led the Royals to the 1985 World Series championship, adding another ring to his collection.
During the following season, Howser was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He passed away the next summer at the young age of 51. Very sad.
But each time I see Howser on the highlights or hear about him, I think of the time he graciously let me try on his 1977 World Series ring.
They were showing a close-up of Royals Manager Dick Howser and I remembered a fond memory from my youth.
In 1978, I was at a baseball camp in Pennington, New Jersey. They would bring in guest instructors, mainly from the nearby Major League teams, the Yankees, Mets and Phillies.
This particular morning, Dick Howser, then the Yankees third base coach, was a guest instructor. I vividly recall him discussing hitting and base running. I also noticed the 1977 World Series ring on his finger, earned when the Yankees defeated the Dodgers in 6-games, highlighted by Reggie Jackson's three home runs in the clincher.
Anyway, at lunchtime, I was sitting at a table in the cafeteria when Howser sat down across from me. He must have seen me staring at his ring because he took it off, handed it to me and said, "Try it on."
I did. It was heavy and impressive. Displaying my comedic skills at an early age I asked, "Can I keep it?"
Howser laughed. I was kidding. Sort of.
Every day I dreamed that one day I would get a World Series ring of my own. Never happened.
But I still remember the feeling I got when I had a chance to put Howser's World Series ring on my finger.
Howser of course led the Royals to the 1985 World Series championship, adding another ring to his collection.
During the following season, Howser was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He passed away the next summer at the young age of 51. Very sad.
But each time I see Howser on the highlights or hear about him, I think of the time he graciously let me try on his 1977 World Series ring.
The Curse of Sid Bream
Do you remember that the Pirates were three outs away from the World Series in 1992? They took a 2-0 lead into the bottom of the 9th in Game 7 of the NLCS only to see the Braves rally and score three runs, highlighted by Francisco Cabrera's 2-out, 2-run single.
The guy who scored the winning run was Sid Bream. The slow-footed former Pirate beat the throw from Barry Bonds in left.
Since then the Pirates have been a disaster. 17 losing seasons and counting. They finished this April under .500 again.
The once-proud Bucs have never recovered from Sid Bream sliding across homeplate to send Atlanta to the World Series and the Pirates to oblivion. The Curse of Sid Bream lives.
The guy who scored the winning run was Sid Bream. The slow-footed former Pirate beat the throw from Barry Bonds in left.
Since then the Pirates have been a disaster. 17 losing seasons and counting. They finished this April under .500 again.
The once-proud Bucs have never recovered from Sid Bream sliding across homeplate to send Atlanta to the World Series and the Pirates to oblivion. The Curse of Sid Bream lives.
Yappy Agent
Cliff Lee's agent, Darek Braunecker, says the Mariners lefty will likely test the free agent waters.
If Lee becomes a free agent, that is fine. It is his right and prerogative. What I don't like is Braunecker saying it publicly. What good does that do the Mariners? How does it help Lee?
Right now Lee's job is to help the Mariners win. Any negotiating or posturing should be done behind closed doors, not through the media. His agent should shut his face around a microphone or reporter.
By the way, Lee would look good in pinstripes.
If Lee becomes a free agent, that is fine. It is his right and prerogative. What I don't like is Braunecker saying it publicly. What good does that do the Mariners? How does it help Lee?
Right now Lee's job is to help the Mariners win. Any negotiating or posturing should be done behind closed doors, not through the media. His agent should shut his face around a microphone or reporter.
By the way, Lee would look good in pinstripes.
Three Men Out
There are three guys who I think belong in the Hall of Fame that aren't and I don't think they will make it.
They are Harold Baines, Edgar Martinez and Al Oliver.
Baines and Martinez are dismissed by many because they were primarily designated hitters. But if the DH is a position in the lineup, why are they excluded from Hall consideration? It seems to be an unwritten rule that if you were a DH you can't make it to Cooperstown. Paul Molitor was a DH the latter part of his career and he's in the Hall but more of his hits came as a position player than a DH.
Baines has 2,866 lifetime hits. People say that 3,000 is the magic number to make it to the Hall of Fame. So, basically, 134 hits and being a DH is keeping Baines out?
Martinez was one of the most feared hitters in the 90's. He has a .312 lifetime average. He hit for power and drove in runs. Oh, he was a DH. So what? The guy was maybe the best DH ever. He belongs in the Hall.
Now to Al Oliver. He wasn't a DH. He did some DH'ing in the latter part of his career but was primarily a first baseman and outfielder. His lifetime average is .303 which is the same as Pete Rose (another story for another day). Why isn't Oliver, who has 2,743 lifetime hits enshrined? I don't know. Maybe because as part of the Lumber Company in Pittsburgh he was overshadowed by Roberto Clemente and Willie Stargell. Perhaps it was because he only clubbed 219 homers. Whatever the excuse, it isn't good enough. Oliver belongs in the Hall of Fame.
They are Harold Baines, Edgar Martinez and Al Oliver.
Baines and Martinez are dismissed by many because they were primarily designated hitters. But if the DH is a position in the lineup, why are they excluded from Hall consideration? It seems to be an unwritten rule that if you were a DH you can't make it to Cooperstown. Paul Molitor was a DH the latter part of his career and he's in the Hall but more of his hits came as a position player than a DH.
Baines has 2,866 lifetime hits. People say that 3,000 is the magic number to make it to the Hall of Fame. So, basically, 134 hits and being a DH is keeping Baines out?
Martinez was one of the most feared hitters in the 90's. He has a .312 lifetime average. He hit for power and drove in runs. Oh, he was a DH. So what? The guy was maybe the best DH ever. He belongs in the Hall.
Now to Al Oliver. He wasn't a DH. He did some DH'ing in the latter part of his career but was primarily a first baseman and outfielder. His lifetime average is .303 which is the same as Pete Rose (another story for another day). Why isn't Oliver, who has 2,743 lifetime hits enshrined? I don't know. Maybe because as part of the Lumber Company in Pittsburgh he was overshadowed by Roberto Clemente and Willie Stargell. Perhaps it was because he only clubbed 219 homers. Whatever the excuse, it isn't good enough. Oliver belongs in the Hall of Fame.
No Smoking Jim
Tigers Manager Jim Leyland says he will abide by the new Michigan law that bans smoking in public. What else is he going to say?
I'm sure though, like most smokers, he'll figure out a way to smoke and not get caught.
If you think Leyland looks like the unhappiest guy on the planet now, imagine how he'll be when he's not allowed to smoke in the dugout. Why he would even smoke around his players anyway is pretty selfish and rude in my estimation.
What I would like to see on TV is Leyland caught smoking during a game at Comerica Park and then a law enforcement official walk into the dugout and give him a ticket.
I'm sure though, like most smokers, he'll figure out a way to smoke and not get caught.
If you think Leyland looks like the unhappiest guy on the planet now, imagine how he'll be when he's not allowed to smoke in the dugout. Why he would even smoke around his players anyway is pretty selfish and rude in my estimation.
What I would like to see on TV is Leyland caught smoking during a game at Comerica Park and then a law enforcement official walk into the dugout and give him a ticket.
Mr. Complete Game Shutout
Roy Halliday is one of the few pitchers who can and will go the distance. He's not looking to turn it over to the pen after 6 or 7 innings. He wants to finish what he started.
Halliday is throwback to the days when pitchers were conditioned, mentally and physically, to go nine.
Today in Philly, Halladay showed, again, that he's the best pitcher in the game (sorry Ubaldo and Lincecum) as he mowed down the Mets in a complete game, 10-0 win. Halladay allowed just three hits and struck out six.
Halladay is now 5-1 with three complete games, two shutouts and a tiny ERA of 1.47. If you are a Phillies reliever you can go fishing on the days that Halladay throws.
I certainly wouldn't want to bat against Halladay. Wait, yes I would. That would mean I was in the Major Leagues instead of rotting away working in radio and playing old guy's baseball on the weekends.
Halliday is throwback to the days when pitchers were conditioned, mentally and physically, to go nine.
Today in Philly, Halladay showed, again, that he's the best pitcher in the game (sorry Ubaldo and Lincecum) as he mowed down the Mets in a complete game, 10-0 win. Halladay allowed just three hits and struck out six.
Halladay is now 5-1 with three complete games, two shutouts and a tiny ERA of 1.47. If you are a Phillies reliever you can go fishing on the days that Halladay throws.
I certainly wouldn't want to bat against Halladay. Wait, yes I would. That would mean I was in the Major Leagues instead of rotting away working in radio and playing old guy's baseball on the weekends.
Same Old Story
What in the world is going on with Javier Vazquez? When the Yankees had him in 2004 he was coming off some decent seasons with the Expos. In the Bronx, Vasquez got off to an alright start but struggled down the stretch and imploded in Game 7 of the ALCS against the Red Sox when he gave up a grand slam to Johnny Damon. Vazquez was in relief of Kevin Brown who messed the bed starting the game. Vazquez took a lot of heat for throwing gasoline on the fire and he was shipped out after one season in pinstripes with a misleading 14-10 record and a bloated 4.91 ERA.
He bounced around with the D-Backs, White Sox and with the Braves. Last season in Atlanta he finished 4th in the Cy Young Award voting after turning in a 15-10 mark with a 2.87 ERA and 238 strikeouts in 219 innings.
So, the Yankees traded Melky Cabrera to Atlanta for the veteran righthander this past off-season.
Well, Vazquez part II has been worse than Vazquez part I. Today at the Yankee Stadium Mallpark, Vazquez got lit up by the light hitting White Sox, giving up 3 homers, 5 earned runs and 7 hits in a mere 3 innings of work. He also walked 4.
Maybe Vazquez just doesn't have the intestinal fortitude to pitch for the Yankees. Perhaps he is better pitching for also-rans because there is no pressure.
Bottom line is something is wrong because this guy is better than his 1-3, 9.78 ERA would indicate.
Speaking of part II's gone wrong, Nick Johnson, in his second tour of duty with the Yanks is hitting a robust .136 with a homer and 5 rbi's. When you have Jeter hitting in front of you and Teixeira and A-Clown hitting behind you, how can you be hitting .136? How is that possible? Unfortunately for Yankee fans Johnson somehow has remained fairly healthy. It's only a matter of time until he lands on the DL and the Yanks can find a real DH (Marcus Thames anybody?).
Vazquez and Johnson more proof that sequels usually reek.
He bounced around with the D-Backs, White Sox and with the Braves. Last season in Atlanta he finished 4th in the Cy Young Award voting after turning in a 15-10 mark with a 2.87 ERA and 238 strikeouts in 219 innings.
So, the Yankees traded Melky Cabrera to Atlanta for the veteran righthander this past off-season.
Well, Vazquez part II has been worse than Vazquez part I. Today at the Yankee Stadium Mallpark, Vazquez got lit up by the light hitting White Sox, giving up 3 homers, 5 earned runs and 7 hits in a mere 3 innings of work. He also walked 4.
Maybe Vazquez just doesn't have the intestinal fortitude to pitch for the Yankees. Perhaps he is better pitching for also-rans because there is no pressure.
Bottom line is something is wrong because this guy is better than his 1-3, 9.78 ERA would indicate.
Speaking of part II's gone wrong, Nick Johnson, in his second tour of duty with the Yanks is hitting a robust .136 with a homer and 5 rbi's. When you have Jeter hitting in front of you and Teixeira and A-Clown hitting behind you, how can you be hitting .136? How is that possible? Unfortunately for Yankee fans Johnson somehow has remained fairly healthy. It's only a matter of time until he lands on the DL and the Yanks can find a real DH (Marcus Thames anybody?).
Vazquez and Johnson more proof that sequels usually reek.
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