Mitch Moreland has been great with the Rangers in this post-season. The rookie first baseman has made some dazzling plays with the glove, particularly on foul pop-ups, and with some clutch hits.
No hit was bigger than last night's 3-run homer off lefty Jonathan Sanchez. The lefty swinging Moreland ripped a liner into the rightfield seats and that proved to be the difference in the Rangers 4-2 Game 3 victory.
As Moreland was running around the bases after clouting his first World Series homer, I thought, "Is there a human on the planet, for the next 15-seconds, who is happier than Mitch Moreland?" Probably not.
Any time someone hits a World Series homer, as they run around the bags, are they the happiest person on the world for those few seconds? I believe so.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Gotta Go With Lee
After last night's win in Game 3, the Rangers are right back in the series. They win tonight, it's a new series.
If they lose, the Giants take a 3-1 stranglehold on the series with 2 games in San Francisco if it gets that far. A nice safety net.
So I'm looking at the scheduled starters and Tommy Hunter is listed for the Rangers. Really? Tommy Hunter?
Hunter is a decent pitcher but no way should he pitch Game 4 over Cliff Lee.
This is the World Freaking Series. You have to go with Lee to tie the series, even on three days rest. If the Rangers were up 3-0 or even 2-1 I would go with Hunter. But not down 2-1.
Bottom line is, how serious is Texas manager Ron Washington about tying the series?
Now, if Lee has said he won't pitch on three days rest, then if I'm Washington I go with Hunter and after the series is over and if the free-agent Lee signs elsewhere, then I call him out on it.
Lee has to pitch tonight.
If they lose, the Giants take a 3-1 stranglehold on the series with 2 games in San Francisco if it gets that far. A nice safety net.
So I'm looking at the scheduled starters and Tommy Hunter is listed for the Rangers. Really? Tommy Hunter?
Hunter is a decent pitcher but no way should he pitch Game 4 over Cliff Lee.
This is the World Freaking Series. You have to go with Lee to tie the series, even on three days rest. If the Rangers were up 3-0 or even 2-1 I would go with Hunter. But not down 2-1.
Bottom line is, how serious is Texas manager Ron Washington about tying the series?
Now, if Lee has said he won't pitch on three days rest, then if I'm Washington I go with Hunter and after the series is over and if the free-agent Lee signs elsewhere, then I call him out on it.
Lee has to pitch tonight.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Mr. December?
Baseball Omissioner Bud Selig is talking about expanding the playoffs next season.
Dumb idea. The season is too long already.
Why would he want baseball to start resembling the NBA or NHL with their 16-teams on the playoffs approach?
Baseball is fine the way it is.
I'm sure Selig is looking at poor TV ratings as a reason why he would want expanded playoffs. More teams in, more markets interested in watching their team in the post-season. Sort of makes sense.
But what would make more sense is playing the World Series in early to mid-October, not late October into November. Throw in some weekend day games. With the NFL perhaps shutting down over a labor dispute next year, day games will draw huge ratings.
Start the MLB season sooner, play early April games in warm weather cities or those places with domes. End the regular season earlier but don't expand the playoffs, just get them over with sooner.
I'm afraid with Selig in charge, we will soon be gearing up for the World Series in December.
Dumb idea. The season is too long already.
Why would he want baseball to start resembling the NBA or NHL with their 16-teams on the playoffs approach?
Baseball is fine the way it is.
I'm sure Selig is looking at poor TV ratings as a reason why he would want expanded playoffs. More teams in, more markets interested in watching their team in the post-season. Sort of makes sense.
But what would make more sense is playing the World Series in early to mid-October, not late October into November. Throw in some weekend day games. With the NFL perhaps shutting down over a labor dispute next year, day games will draw huge ratings.
Start the MLB season sooner, play early April games in warm weather cities or those places with domes. End the regular season earlier but don't expand the playoffs, just get them over with sooner.
I'm afraid with Selig in charge, we will soon be gearing up for the World Series in December.
Stalemate
As the Red Sox ponder whether or not to pick up the 12 1/2 million dollar option on DH David Ortiz for next season, Ortiz has weighed in on the matter.
He said he would be "uncomfortable" with a one-year deal and would prefer a multi-year contract.
The Red Sox are obviously, and smartly, uncomfortable in giving the 34-year old with declining skills that extension.
What we have here is a good old stalemate.
Ortiz also wants to get back to baseball and having fun like he used to have. He's tired of the controversy surrounding him. Well, he's brought a lot of the controversy on himself by being selfish, by not being the player he once was and the fact that he used performance enhancing drugs.
Ortiz basically wants a long-term deal for big bucks, have the media and fans kiss his behind or he will sulk and not "have fun" like he used to.
Meanwhile, he did hit .270 last year with 32 homers and 102 RBI's after another early season slump.
So, how much does he have in the tank? If you were the Red Sox would you pony up and give him a multi-year deal or do you tell him to prove it on a yearly basis?
If I'm the Boston's, I deal with him on a year to year basis. If he doesn't like it then too bad.
He said he would be "uncomfortable" with a one-year deal and would prefer a multi-year contract.
The Red Sox are obviously, and smartly, uncomfortable in giving the 34-year old with declining skills that extension.
What we have here is a good old stalemate.
Ortiz also wants to get back to baseball and having fun like he used to have. He's tired of the controversy surrounding him. Well, he's brought a lot of the controversy on himself by being selfish, by not being the player he once was and the fact that he used performance enhancing drugs.
Ortiz basically wants a long-term deal for big bucks, have the media and fans kiss his behind or he will sulk and not "have fun" like he used to.
Meanwhile, he did hit .270 last year with 32 homers and 102 RBI's after another early season slump.
So, how much does he have in the tank? If you were the Red Sox would you pony up and give him a multi-year deal or do you tell him to prove it on a yearly basis?
If I'm the Boston's, I deal with him on a year to year basis. If he doesn't like it then too bad.
Bludgeoned
The Rangers are in trouble (no kidding, idiot! I know that's what you are thinking).
They better win Game 3 or else. Or else what? Or else the Giants will be World Series champs in short order.
Matt Cain was brilliant last night and the team that had the "inferior" offense put 9 on the board, including another big inning with 7 in the 8th inning to sale away the 9-0 win.
If the Giants win Game 3, will the Rangers go to Cliff Lee in a must Game 4?
Who knows but, win or lose Ron Washington should pencil in Lee for Game 4.
Things look bleak now for the Rangers but a win in Game 3 will do wonders.
The pressure is on Texas starter Colby Lewis while San Fran counters with Jonathan Sanchez.
Lewis was outstanding against the Yankees in the ALCS. Can he do it again in the World Series against the Giants? I think he can and will.
We'll see.
They better win Game 3 or else. Or else what? Or else the Giants will be World Series champs in short order.
Matt Cain was brilliant last night and the team that had the "inferior" offense put 9 on the board, including another big inning with 7 in the 8th inning to sale away the 9-0 win.
If the Giants win Game 3, will the Rangers go to Cliff Lee in a must Game 4?
Who knows but, win or lose Ron Washington should pencil in Lee for Game 4.
Things look bleak now for the Rangers but a win in Game 3 will do wonders.
The pressure is on Texas starter Colby Lewis while San Fran counters with Jonathan Sanchez.
Lewis was outstanding against the Yankees in the ALCS. Can he do it again in the World Series against the Giants? I think he can and will.
We'll see.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Just Go Away
Barry Bonds turned up at the World Series last night, full of smiles. He told reporters that he'd like to be the Giants batting coach.
I suppose he would like to follow in the footsteps of fellow steroid-freak Mark McGwire who became the Cardinals hitting coach this year.
A couple of things. The Giants already have a hitting coach, in Hensley Meulens. It's pretty despicable to lobby for a job that someone already has. If Bonds is interested in the job, he should tell the Giants privately that if the hitting coach position opens up, he'd be interested.
Better yet, Bonds should tell the Giants he'd like to become a hitting instructor in the organization and work with the minor leaguers. But his ego would never accept that position. It would have to be with the big club.
Secondly, Bonds was always a bad teammate. He would separate himself from the team. He had special privileges, such as extra locker space, a big screen TV for himself and various perks that the other guys didn't have. He was a jerk to teammates, coaches, reporters and fans. Now that he wants back in the game, he's suddenly going to be Mr. Nice guy and always put the team first? I don't think so.
Bonds was a jerk during his playing days. His shelf life as a player is over and done with. Time for him to go away. Sometimes what goes around comes around.
I suppose he would like to follow in the footsteps of fellow steroid-freak Mark McGwire who became the Cardinals hitting coach this year.
A couple of things. The Giants already have a hitting coach, in Hensley Meulens. It's pretty despicable to lobby for a job that someone already has. If Bonds is interested in the job, he should tell the Giants privately that if the hitting coach position opens up, he'd be interested.
Better yet, Bonds should tell the Giants he'd like to become a hitting instructor in the organization and work with the minor leaguers. But his ego would never accept that position. It would have to be with the big club.
Secondly, Bonds was always a bad teammate. He would separate himself from the team. He had special privileges, such as extra locker space, a big screen TV for himself and various perks that the other guys didn't have. He was a jerk to teammates, coaches, reporters and fans. Now that he wants back in the game, he's suddenly going to be Mr. Nice guy and always put the team first? I don't think so.
Bonds was a jerk during his playing days. His shelf life as a player is over and done with. Time for him to go away. Sometimes what goes around comes around.
Giants Take Game 1
Well, I guess the Rangers won't sweep the World Series as I predicted yesterday. If you went out and made a wager on Texas sweeping because of what I wrote, my bad. And you need to seek professional help, you degenerate gambler.
Anyway, the Yankees had to be watching the game and thinking, "Who is that impostor on the hill wearing a Rangers uniform...because it's not the Cliff Lee we have grown to fear."
Lee proved he was human by giving up 6 earned runs on 7 hits in just 4.2 innings. Freddy Sanchez of the Giants took BP off Lee with 3 doubles. Sanchez on the night went 4-5 with those 3 doubles and 3 RBI's.
Lincecum wasn't so great either, giving up 4 runs in 5.2 innings, but he was better than Lee and picked up the win.
Game 2 tonight has C.J. Wilson pitching for the Rangers against Matt Cain. Advantage Giants but I still think Texas is a better all around team and will get the win.
Anyway, the Yankees had to be watching the game and thinking, "Who is that impostor on the hill wearing a Rangers uniform...because it's not the Cliff Lee we have grown to fear."
Lee proved he was human by giving up 6 earned runs on 7 hits in just 4.2 innings. Freddy Sanchez of the Giants took BP off Lee with 3 doubles. Sanchez on the night went 4-5 with those 3 doubles and 3 RBI's.
Lincecum wasn't so great either, giving up 4 runs in 5.2 innings, but he was better than Lee and picked up the win.
Game 2 tonight has C.J. Wilson pitching for the Rangers against Matt Cain. Advantage Giants but I still think Texas is a better all around team and will get the win.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Texas vs San Fran...Stupid Breakdowns
Here are some meaningless World Series breakdowns...
Better Ball Park: Giants
Better Uniforms: Giants
Better Fans: Giants
Better Haircut: Cliff Lee or Tim Lincecum? Rangers
Better Comeback Stories: Rangers
Better Radio Announcer: Eric Nadal or Jon Miller? Push. Both are great. Miller has a higher profile but Nadal is outstanding and vastly underrated.
Better City: San Francisco
Better Ocean Views: San Francisco
Better View of Jerry World: Texas
Better Team President: Rangers
Team President Who Can Throw A Baseball Thru A Brick Wall: Rangers
Better Weather: Texas
Better Ball Boys/Girls: San Francisco's Old Guy's
Better Name: Elvis Andrus or Buster Posey? Giants
Better Chance For A Fog Delay: San Francisco
Better Chance For An Earthquake Delayed Series: San Francisco
Fans With Bigger Belt Buckles: Rangers
Team With More, um, Alternative Lifestyle Fans: Giants
Team With More Fans Wearing 10-Gallon Hats: Rangers
Fans More Likely To Freeze To Death In Late October, Early November: Giants
Fans With Better Kayakers Beyond The Right Field Wall: Giants
Team With Better History In Previous City: Giants
Team With Biggest Player In Team History: Rangers (Frank Howard, Senators)
Team With Biggest Player Head In Team History: Giants (Barry Bonds)
Team Most Likely To Have Very Hot Looking National Anthem Singer: Rangers
Team Most Likely To Have Some Boy Band Singer Perform The National Anthem: Giants
Team Whose Manager Looks Most Like Former Giants Skipper Dusty Baker: Rangers
Team Whose Manager Looks Most Like Former Rangers Skipper Buck Showalter: Giants
Team Most Likely To Fade Into Oblivion After World Series: Rangers
Better Beards: Giants
Team Most Likely To Have Better First Pitch Throwers: Giants (The Willies, Mays & McCovey? Hopefully not Barry Bonds) over Rangers (Nolan Ryan and...Wayne Tolleson?)
Ugliest Tattoos, Josh Hamilton or Brian Wilson? Hamilton
Manager With The Better Mustasche: Giants, Bruce Bochy
There you have it, some of the most meaningless World Series breakdowns.
I'm anxious for the series to finally start.
Better Ball Park: Giants
Better Uniforms: Giants
Better Fans: Giants
Better Haircut: Cliff Lee or Tim Lincecum? Rangers
Better Comeback Stories: Rangers
Better Radio Announcer: Eric Nadal or Jon Miller? Push. Both are great. Miller has a higher profile but Nadal is outstanding and vastly underrated.
Better City: San Francisco
Better Ocean Views: San Francisco
Better View of Jerry World: Texas
Better Team President: Rangers
Team President Who Can Throw A Baseball Thru A Brick Wall: Rangers
Better Weather: Texas
Better Ball Boys/Girls: San Francisco's Old Guy's
Better Name: Elvis Andrus or Buster Posey? Giants
Better Chance For A Fog Delay: San Francisco
Better Chance For An Earthquake Delayed Series: San Francisco
Fans With Bigger Belt Buckles: Rangers
Team With More, um, Alternative Lifestyle Fans: Giants
Team With More Fans Wearing 10-Gallon Hats: Rangers
Fans More Likely To Freeze To Death In Late October, Early November: Giants
Fans With Better Kayakers Beyond The Right Field Wall: Giants
Team With Better History In Previous City: Giants
Team With Biggest Player In Team History: Rangers (Frank Howard, Senators)
Team With Biggest Player Head In Team History: Giants (Barry Bonds)
Team Most Likely To Have Very Hot Looking National Anthem Singer: Rangers
Team Most Likely To Have Some Boy Band Singer Perform The National Anthem: Giants
Team Whose Manager Looks Most Like Former Giants Skipper Dusty Baker: Rangers
Team Whose Manager Looks Most Like Former Rangers Skipper Buck Showalter: Giants
Team Most Likely To Fade Into Oblivion After World Series: Rangers
Better Beards: Giants
Team Most Likely To Have Better First Pitch Throwers: Giants (The Willies, Mays & McCovey? Hopefully not Barry Bonds) over Rangers (Nolan Ryan and...Wayne Tolleson?)
Ugliest Tattoos, Josh Hamilton or Brian Wilson? Hamilton
Manager With The Better Mustasche: Giants, Bruce Bochy
There you have it, some of the most meaningless World Series breakdowns.
I'm anxious for the series to finally start.
BR's World Series Prediction
Texas and San Francisco each have very good pitching staffs. I would give the slight edge to the Giants.
The Rangers line-up though is much better than the Giants in my estimation.
But I have a feeling about the Rangers. Some might laugh, some might mock me but I don't care. I'm used to it every Sunday night on our radio show.
My prediction? Texas in four. Yes, a Rangers sweep.
The Rangers line-up though is much better than the Giants in my estimation.
But I have a feeling about the Rangers. Some might laugh, some might mock me but I don't care. I'm used to it every Sunday night on our radio show.
My prediction? Texas in four. Yes, a Rangers sweep.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Way Too Late
When you think about it, it is pretty damn stupid to start the World Series on October 27th. I mean really, the World Series, barring a sweep will end in November. That is completely asinine.
They need to figure out a way to have the World Series end no later than October 21st.
They need to figure out a way to have the World Series end no later than October 21st.
Idiot Yankee Fans
Cliff Lee will be a free-agent after the World Series. The Yankees are going to try to sign him. Hey, if you can't beat 'em, sign him. For big bucks.
But there may be a snag to all of this.
Lee's wife Kristen was apparently harassed by jerkoff fans at Yankee Stadium during the ALCS. Kristen Lee says fans were yelling obscenities at her as well as spitting and throwing beer at her.
When I say fans, I don't mean true baseball fans. I mean complete and utter a-holes. People who would treat anyone in that manner is a subhuman. That is disgraceful and despicable.
They also, in addition to being steaming piles of you know what, they aren't very smart. If you want Cliff Lee to pitch for the Yankees next year, why would you harass his wife? That's just stupid. I'm guessing they were Mets fans. I have a hard time believing Yankees fans would be so schmucky and ignorant.
But there may be a snag to all of this.
Lee's wife Kristen was apparently harassed by jerkoff fans at Yankee Stadium during the ALCS. Kristen Lee says fans were yelling obscenities at her as well as spitting and throwing beer at her.
When I say fans, I don't mean true baseball fans. I mean complete and utter a-holes. People who would treat anyone in that manner is a subhuman. That is disgraceful and despicable.
They also, in addition to being steaming piles of you know what, they aren't very smart. If you want Cliff Lee to pitch for the Yankees next year, why would you harass his wife? That's just stupid. I'm guessing they were Mets fans. I have a hard time believing Yankees fans would be so schmucky and ignorant.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Blue Jays Have a Skipper
Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell is the new manager of the Blue Jays.
Good move for Toronto. They need to improve pitching wise and it doesn't hurt to have a manager with that background. Farrell, 48, in addition to being a pitching coach, pitched in the big leagues.
Toronto can hit. No denying that. Plus, they are not that far away having won 85 games last year.
With the Yankees aging, the Red Sox hoping to rebound from an injury riddled season and the Rays who will get hurt this year by losing some key players to free agency, the Blue Jays might have a decent shot at making the playoffs out of the tough AL East.
Funny, not too many divisions have a team finish in 4th place after going 85-77.
Good move for Toronto. They need to improve pitching wise and it doesn't hurt to have a manager with that background. Farrell, 48, in addition to being a pitching coach, pitched in the big leagues.
Toronto can hit. No denying that. Plus, they are not that far away having won 85 games last year.
With the Yankees aging, the Red Sox hoping to rebound from an injury riddled season and the Rays who will get hurt this year by losing some key players to free agency, the Blue Jays might have a decent shot at making the playoffs out of the tough AL East.
Funny, not too many divisions have a team finish in 4th place after going 85-77.
Somethings Gotta Give
The Giants last World Series title, in 1954, was 56 years ago. The Rangers, who began life in 1960 as the second version of the Washington Senators, have never won the World Series.
That means, combined, these franchises have gone 106 years without a World Series title.
One team's futility will end, the other's will continue.
This is not my official World Series prediction yet, but I'm leaning towards the Rangers.
That means, combined, these franchises have gone 106 years without a World Series title.
One team's futility will end, the other's will continue.
This is not my official World Series prediction yet, but I'm leaning towards the Rangers.
Rangers-Giants
I'm not sure how many people at the beginning of the season picked the Rangers and Giants to square off in the World Series. I sure didn't.
My World Series prediction was Yankees over the Rockies. Ooops! At least the Yanks made the playoffs.
To me this is an appealing World Series. I'm guessing the people at Fox would have preferred the Yankees in the series for ratings purposes.
But there are some great storylines.
On the Texas side, you have the great story of Josh Hamilton who nearly pissed away his life and baseball career through drugs and alcohol. You have the manager Ron Washington who tested positive for cocaine last year and Nolan Ryan decided to give him another chance. Washington has rewarded Ryan's faith in him by doing a great job this season. Then there is the loyal soldier, Michael Young who played on a bunch of crappy teams and now has his shot in the post-season.
For San Francisco, you of course have Tim Lincecum who is amazing to watch pitch. Plus, the Giants are a much more likeable team without that jackass Barry Bonds. Finally, the Giants have never won a World Series in San Francisco. Their last World Series title came in 1954 when they completed a 4-game sweep of the Indians, a team that won 111 games that season.
My World Series prediction was Yankees over the Rockies. Ooops! At least the Yanks made the playoffs.
To me this is an appealing World Series. I'm guessing the people at Fox would have preferred the Yankees in the series for ratings purposes.
But there are some great storylines.
On the Texas side, you have the great story of Josh Hamilton who nearly pissed away his life and baseball career through drugs and alcohol. You have the manager Ron Washington who tested positive for cocaine last year and Nolan Ryan decided to give him another chance. Washington has rewarded Ryan's faith in him by doing a great job this season. Then there is the loyal soldier, Michael Young who played on a bunch of crappy teams and now has his shot in the post-season.
For San Francisco, you of course have Tim Lincecum who is amazing to watch pitch. Plus, the Giants are a much more likeable team without that jackass Barry Bonds. Finally, the Giants have never won a World Series in San Francisco. Their last World Series title came in 1954 when they completed a 4-game sweep of the Indians, a team that won 111 games that season.
The Giants Win The Pennant
It wasn't as dramatic as 1951, but the Giants did indeed pull the upset by knocking off the Phillies 3-2 last night. It was nice to see the faces of Phillies fans after the game.
Cody Ross, with 3 home runs, was named MVP and deservedly so. He belted 2 home runs off Roy Halladay in Game One and that set the tone for the series.
I also liked how last night San Fran skipper Bruce Bochy brought Tim Lincecum into the game in the 8th inning. Although Lincecum is a starter and not used to a relief role, Bochy went with his best pitcher to get to Brian Wilson. I also thought it was a smart move to take Lincecum out after he struck out the first batter then gave up back-to-back singles. Wilson got the 5-out save.
Bochy wasn't thinking, "Well, if we lose we have a Game 7." He was thinking, "I have a chance to win the damn pennant, I'm going for it."
Cody Ross, with 3 home runs, was named MVP and deservedly so. He belted 2 home runs off Roy Halladay in Game One and that set the tone for the series.
I also liked how last night San Fran skipper Bruce Bochy brought Tim Lincecum into the game in the 8th inning. Although Lincecum is a starter and not used to a relief role, Bochy went with his best pitcher to get to Brian Wilson. I also thought it was a smart move to take Lincecum out after he struck out the first batter then gave up back-to-back singles. Wilson got the 5-out save.
Bochy wasn't thinking, "Well, if we lose we have a Game 7." He was thinking, "I have a chance to win the damn pennant, I'm going for it."
Friday, October 22, 2010
Colby Koufax?
If you would have told me that Colby Lewis would shut down the Yankees twice in the ALCS I wouldn't have believed it.
A journeyman who had to go to Japan to keep his career alive, did shut down the Yankees twice.
Tonight, he went 8-innings allowing just one run as the Rangers eliminated the Yankees in Game 6 with a dominating 6-1 win.
The Yankees bats didn't show up tonight. Lewis was great, giving up 3 hits and striking out 7.
So, the Rangers are going to the World Series for the first time in franchise history.
While I'm disappointed the Yankees lost, I'm pulling for the Rangers in the World Series for a couple of reasons. First off, I usually root for the American League in the World Series. Secondly, I have nothing against the Rangers. I feel good for guys like Michael Young who has been a great player on some dismal teams.
There is a book called "Seasons In Hell," by Mike Shopshire which chronicles the mid-70's Texas Rangers. They were simple worse than horrible, playing in the frying pan that was Arlington Stadium. The people who stuck with those teams and are now witnessing the Rangers run to the World Series, I feel good for those fans. They deserve this. I also am happy for Nolan Ryan, one of the classiest players ever and one of my favorites. Ryan, now the President of the Rangers, was last in the World Series...in 1969 with the Mets.
So, I guess it's "Let's Go Rangers" in the World Series.
Meanwhile, the Yankees looked terrible this series. Phil Hughes was awful, twice. The bullpen stunk. The bats disappeared. The Yankees looked old. The Rangers ran wild on them.
It will be a very interesting off-season for the Yanks. They'll need to sign Jeter. They need to find a catcher. Jorge Posada's catching skills have eroded. They need reliable starting pitching behind CC Sabathia. A lot of work needs to be done but one thing can be for certain and that is the Yankees will be back.
A journeyman who had to go to Japan to keep his career alive, did shut down the Yankees twice.
Tonight, he went 8-innings allowing just one run as the Rangers eliminated the Yankees in Game 6 with a dominating 6-1 win.
The Yankees bats didn't show up tonight. Lewis was great, giving up 3 hits and striking out 7.
So, the Rangers are going to the World Series for the first time in franchise history.
While I'm disappointed the Yankees lost, I'm pulling for the Rangers in the World Series for a couple of reasons. First off, I usually root for the American League in the World Series. Secondly, I have nothing against the Rangers. I feel good for guys like Michael Young who has been a great player on some dismal teams.
There is a book called "Seasons In Hell," by Mike Shopshire which chronicles the mid-70's Texas Rangers. They were simple worse than horrible, playing in the frying pan that was Arlington Stadium. The people who stuck with those teams and are now witnessing the Rangers run to the World Series, I feel good for those fans. They deserve this. I also am happy for Nolan Ryan, one of the classiest players ever and one of my favorites. Ryan, now the President of the Rangers, was last in the World Series...in 1969 with the Mets.
So, I guess it's "Let's Go Rangers" in the World Series.
Meanwhile, the Yankees looked terrible this series. Phil Hughes was awful, twice. The bullpen stunk. The bats disappeared. The Yankees looked old. The Rangers ran wild on them.
It will be a very interesting off-season for the Yanks. They'll need to sign Jeter. They need to find a catcher. Jorge Posada's catching skills have eroded. They need reliable starting pitching behind CC Sabathia. A lot of work needs to be done but one thing can be for certain and that is the Yankees will be back.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Wine and Cheese in the Bronx
The old Yankees Stadium was loud. Come playoff and World Series time, the place was hell for visiting teams.
Watching the last three playoff games against the Rangers in the new Yankee Stadium, I couldn't believe how different the atmosphere was and how many empty seats there were.
Granted, I was watching the games on TV, but I saw the empty seats behind each dugout and behind home plate. I could see people sitting there simply watching the game with very little emotion. They were quiet, probably waiting for the wait service to bring them a wine list or appetizer menu.
Did you ever see empty seats at a post-season game at the old stadium? Was the old stadium ever as quiet as the new one for a post-season game? The answers to both questions, no.
The incredibly high priced seats at the new stadium for the prime locations on the lower level behind the plate and dugouts has forced out the common man. Now, the rich folk have taken over, when they bother to show up. In many cases, at least during the regular season, those seats go unsold because they are way, way, way too expensive.
Nothing against rich people but they tend to be more casual and laid back than the guy who is more blue collar and who lives and dies with his team. Why this is, I don't know. Is this a scientific study? No, but that is the way I see it.
Bill Veeck had a great quote and I believe it to be completely accurate. He said, "I have discovered in 20 years of moving around a ballpark, that the knowledge of the game is usually in inverse proportion to the price of the seats".
Bingo. He nailed it. People in the cheaper seats (not that there are cheap seats in the new building) know more about the game and therefore care more. When you care more you bring passion and energy to the park. You are into every pitch.
When you sit in the really expensive seats, you just don't care as much. It is more of a status thing.
Next time the Yankees play a post-season game in the new park (hopefully Game 3 of the World Series this year!) watch the people in the expensive seats. They are dead. They are sipping their beverages and simply watching the game with no emotion. If you look closely, you will see that some of them aren't even paying attention to the game. They are on their cell phones, chatting with the person next to them or just looking all around. It is nothing like the way the crowd behaved at the old place.
Watching these playoffs, I longed for the old park and for the electric atmosphere it produced. Now, it's like the Yankees are playing their home post-season games in Atlanta.
In retrospect, here's what the Yankees should have done. Build the new park for the regular season. Let the rich folk have a nice place to spend some time and drop some cash. But, they should have left the real Yankee Stadium standing, just for post-season play. Let the common people get their hands on the tickets and bam, you have a lively atmosphere in the greatest park ever. Then next April, go back to the new place for the regular season only.
Yes, I know what I just wrote was pretty stupid. But, damn, I miss the old Yankee Stadium, especially this time of year.
Watching the last three playoff games against the Rangers in the new Yankee Stadium, I couldn't believe how different the atmosphere was and how many empty seats there were.
Granted, I was watching the games on TV, but I saw the empty seats behind each dugout and behind home plate. I could see people sitting there simply watching the game with very little emotion. They were quiet, probably waiting for the wait service to bring them a wine list or appetizer menu.
Did you ever see empty seats at a post-season game at the old stadium? Was the old stadium ever as quiet as the new one for a post-season game? The answers to both questions, no.
The incredibly high priced seats at the new stadium for the prime locations on the lower level behind the plate and dugouts has forced out the common man. Now, the rich folk have taken over, when they bother to show up. In many cases, at least during the regular season, those seats go unsold because they are way, way, way too expensive.
Nothing against rich people but they tend to be more casual and laid back than the guy who is more blue collar and who lives and dies with his team. Why this is, I don't know. Is this a scientific study? No, but that is the way I see it.
Bill Veeck had a great quote and I believe it to be completely accurate. He said, "I have discovered in 20 years of moving around a ballpark, that the knowledge of the game is usually in inverse proportion to the price of the seats".
Bingo. He nailed it. People in the cheaper seats (not that there are cheap seats in the new building) know more about the game and therefore care more. When you care more you bring passion and energy to the park. You are into every pitch.
When you sit in the really expensive seats, you just don't care as much. It is more of a status thing.
Next time the Yankees play a post-season game in the new park (hopefully Game 3 of the World Series this year!) watch the people in the expensive seats. They are dead. They are sipping their beverages and simply watching the game with no emotion. If you look closely, you will see that some of them aren't even paying attention to the game. They are on their cell phones, chatting with the person next to them or just looking all around. It is nothing like the way the crowd behaved at the old place.
Watching these playoffs, I longed for the old park and for the electric atmosphere it produced. Now, it's like the Yankees are playing their home post-season games in Atlanta.
In retrospect, here's what the Yankees should have done. Build the new park for the regular season. Let the rich folk have a nice place to spend some time and drop some cash. But, they should have left the real Yankee Stadium standing, just for post-season play. Let the common people get their hands on the tickets and bam, you have a lively atmosphere in the greatest park ever. Then next April, go back to the new place for the regular season only.
Yes, I know what I just wrote was pretty stupid. But, damn, I miss the old Yankee Stadium, especially this time of year.
Yanks Won't Go Quietly
I would have been shocked if the Yankees lost yesterday. Texas has proven to be an outstanding team and they certainly outplayed the Yankees in the first 4 games.
But the Yanks have too much pride and too many veterans to go down meekly. You had to figure they would show up yesterday and they did.
Amazing what can happen when you get a few hits.
So the series shifts back to Texas.
Tomorrow night, Phil Hughes, coming off a rancid start in Game 2, goes for New York against Colby Lewis who tossed a fine game in Game 2 for Texas.
Even though Lewis outpitched Hughes in the previous matchup, if you are a Yankees fan you have to like your chances to send it to a Game 7.
If it goes to Game 7, Andy Pettitte and Cliff Lee square off with the pennant on the line. Who knows what could happen in that situation. Can Lee duplicate his Game 3 performance? I hope we get a chance to see.
I do think the series goes seven.
But the Yanks have too much pride and too many veterans to go down meekly. You had to figure they would show up yesterday and they did.
Amazing what can happen when you get a few hits.
So the series shifts back to Texas.
Tomorrow night, Phil Hughes, coming off a rancid start in Game 2, goes for New York against Colby Lewis who tossed a fine game in Game 2 for Texas.
Even though Lewis outpitched Hughes in the previous matchup, if you are a Yankees fan you have to like your chances to send it to a Game 7.
If it goes to Game 7, Andy Pettitte and Cliff Lee square off with the pennant on the line. Who knows what could happen in that situation. Can Lee duplicate his Game 3 performance? I hope we get a chance to see.
I do think the series goes seven.
Phils on the Brink
Great game last night at whatever they call the ballpark in San Francisco these days.
Back and forth it went with the Giants winning, 6-5, on a Juan Uribe sac fly in the bottom of the 9th off Roy Oswalt. Yes, Phillies skipper Charlie Manuel went with a starter in the 9th instead of Brad Lidge. It either shows how much confidence Manuel has in Oswalt or how little confidence he has in Lidge. Probably a little of both.
So the 2-time defending National League champs are down 3-1 in the series.
There is good news and bad news for the Phillies.
First the good news. They have ace Roy Halladay throwing tonight in Game 5.
The bad news? Tim Lincecum deals for the Giants.
Prediction? The Giants close it out tonight.
Back and forth it went with the Giants winning, 6-5, on a Juan Uribe sac fly in the bottom of the 9th off Roy Oswalt. Yes, Phillies skipper Charlie Manuel went with a starter in the 9th instead of Brad Lidge. It either shows how much confidence Manuel has in Oswalt or how little confidence he has in Lidge. Probably a little of both.
So the 2-time defending National League champs are down 3-1 in the series.
There is good news and bad news for the Phillies.
First the good news. They have ace Roy Halladay throwing tonight in Game 5.
The bad news? Tim Lincecum deals for the Giants.
Prediction? The Giants close it out tonight.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Tase Them Bro, Tase Them!
There was slight delay during Game 3 of the ALCS at Yankee Stadium Monday night. Apparently a fan ran on the field. OK, so what else is new?
Well, it has come to light that the guy who ran on the field was not some drunk looking to make $50 bucks from his friends on a dare. He was a kook named Grim LeRogue, who wanted harm Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez. Not because A-Rod has been stinking it up in the series, but because this delusional jackass has a crush on Cameron Diaz and was jealous of her relationship with Rodriguez.
He had pictures on his person of a gun pointed at Rodriguez' head. Fortunately, LeRogue was not armed. How he was going to hurt A-Rod I don't know.
But the point is, who knows what is going on in the minds of people who run on the field? They could be harmless idiots looking for attention and the thrill of running around before 50-thousand people. Or they could be psychopaths looking to hurt a player or umpire.
In Philadelphia this year, a young schmuck ran on the field and was tased. Some people agreed with it, some were outraged. Some said that a guy could die from getting tased. Yeah so? If a guy knows that he will get tased and could die from running on the field, that would be a major deterrent to these situations.
I have no problem with every person who runs on the field during a game getting tased. I don't care who it is or what age. I don't care if they cooperate with authorities and walk of the field with the police. I think they should all be tased.
Not only will this curb these jerks it will also make for great entertainment and YouTube videos.
Also, TV doesn't show a person running on the field for fear that it will encourage this behavior. I think the opposite should happen. They should show the fan running on the field getting tased and then the living crap beaten out of him, Rodney King style. That's what should happen.
Well, it has come to light that the guy who ran on the field was not some drunk looking to make $50 bucks from his friends on a dare. He was a kook named Grim LeRogue, who wanted harm Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez. Not because A-Rod has been stinking it up in the series, but because this delusional jackass has a crush on Cameron Diaz and was jealous of her relationship with Rodriguez.
He had pictures on his person of a gun pointed at Rodriguez' head. Fortunately, LeRogue was not armed. How he was going to hurt A-Rod I don't know.
But the point is, who knows what is going on in the minds of people who run on the field? They could be harmless idiots looking for attention and the thrill of running around before 50-thousand people. Or they could be psychopaths looking to hurt a player or umpire.
In Philadelphia this year, a young schmuck ran on the field and was tased. Some people agreed with it, some were outraged. Some said that a guy could die from getting tased. Yeah so? If a guy knows that he will get tased and could die from running on the field, that would be a major deterrent to these situations.
I have no problem with every person who runs on the field during a game getting tased. I don't care who it is or what age. I don't care if they cooperate with authorities and walk of the field with the police. I think they should all be tased.
Not only will this curb these jerks it will also make for great entertainment and YouTube videos.
Also, TV doesn't show a person running on the field for fear that it will encourage this behavior. I think the opposite should happen. They should show the fan running on the field getting tased and then the living crap beaten out of him, Rodney King style. That's what should happen.
Giant Disappointment
I wasn't happy to see Barry Bonds throw out the first pitch yesterday before Game 3 of the NLCS.
Bonds, wearing his #25 Giants jersey, danced around and soaked in the applause from the fans.
The guy was a cheater, a liar, a bum and a terrible, me-first teammate. He's a disgrace to the game and to be honored by throwing out the first pitch is a shame.
Bonds makes me sick and so does the Giants organization for allowing this creep into the ballpark.
Bonds, wearing his #25 Giants jersey, danced around and soaked in the applause from the fans.
The guy was a cheater, a liar, a bum and a terrible, me-first teammate. He's a disgrace to the game and to be honored by throwing out the first pitch is a shame.
Bonds makes me sick and so does the Giants organization for allowing this creep into the ballpark.
Cain Is Able
While Tim Lincecum steals the spotlight in the Giants pitching staff, Matt Cain is every bit as good. Almost.
Cain, with some relief help, quieted the Phillies bats in the Giants 3-0 win yesterday.
While the Phillies aren't in the dire straights the Yankees are in, yet, they really need to win tonight with Lincecum slated to go for the Giants tomorrow.
The starters, Joe Blanton for Philly against Madison Bumgarner. Advantage San Fran.
And what is up with Cody Ross? The guy has been amazing for the Giants. One fun thing about post-season play is that a journeyman can step up and make a name for himself. If he never does another thing in baseball, people will remember Cody Ross as the guy who lit it up in the post-season for the Giants.
Cain, with some relief help, quieted the Phillies bats in the Giants 3-0 win yesterday.
While the Phillies aren't in the dire straights the Yankees are in, yet, they really need to win tonight with Lincecum slated to go for the Giants tomorrow.
The starters, Joe Blanton for Philly against Madison Bumgarner. Advantage San Fran.
And what is up with Cody Ross? The guy has been amazing for the Giants. One fun thing about post-season play is that a journeyman can step up and make a name for himself. If he never does another thing in baseball, people will remember Cody Ross as the guy who lit it up in the post-season for the Giants.
Champs on the Ropes
The Yankees turn to CC Sabathia today to extend their season as Texas is just one win away from their first World Series. Actually, their first World Series in Texas. The Rangers franchise, as the Washington Senators, won the 1924 World Series and lost the World Series the next season and in 1933.
Anyway, the Rangers battered the Yankees into submission again last night, 10-3, the key blow being Bengie Molina's 3-run homer in the 6th off of A.J. Burnett. Burnett didn't pitch badly up to that point but he wasn't lockdown solid either. Watching the game you had the sense that it wasn't if he would implode, it would be when. When I see Burnett on the hill it reminds me of Andy Hawkins or Kevin Brown. Not quite Ed Whitson, but close.
Credit the Rangers. They stayed away from allowing the Yankees the big inning and have been able to tack on insurance runs when they get the lead.
As for the Yankees, only Robinson Cano, Derek Jeter and Andy Pettitte have shown up. The rest of them have played like dogs...overpriced dogs.
Mark Teixiera is done for the playoffs with a pulled hamstring. He was 0-14 in the series before going down. The baseball Gods probably said, "We can't watch this guy any more. Give him a pulled hammy."
Alex Rodriguez has stunk as has Posada, Gardner and especially Nick Swisher who has left a ton of guys on base.
Are the Yanks finished? No. Is there hope? Yes.
The next three scheduled starters are Sabathia, Hughes and Pettitte. All capable of pitching a great game. The hitters could wake up at any moment. But instead of thinking of winning three in a row, they need to just win a game to get things moving in the right direction.
Meanwhile, the Rangers have to do what they've been doing. That is smacking the hell out of the ball, getting great pitching and playing excellent defense. They are also running wild on the Yankees. So long Texas stays relaxed and keeps the pressure on the Yanks, there is a good chance they wrap it up today.
Funny, Yankees fans wanted no part of Cliff Lee in a Game 7 situation. Now every single Yankee fan is saying, "Yeah, I'd love to see the Yanks get a crack at Lee in Game 7 in Texas."
Can the Yankees come back to win the series? Of course they can. Will they? I don't know but I wouldn't count them out.
Still, if Texas wins the ALCS I'll be pulling for them in the World Series. They are a tough team to dislike.
Anyway, the Rangers battered the Yankees into submission again last night, 10-3, the key blow being Bengie Molina's 3-run homer in the 6th off of A.J. Burnett. Burnett didn't pitch badly up to that point but he wasn't lockdown solid either. Watching the game you had the sense that it wasn't if he would implode, it would be when. When I see Burnett on the hill it reminds me of Andy Hawkins or Kevin Brown. Not quite Ed Whitson, but close.
Credit the Rangers. They stayed away from allowing the Yankees the big inning and have been able to tack on insurance runs when they get the lead.
As for the Yankees, only Robinson Cano, Derek Jeter and Andy Pettitte have shown up. The rest of them have played like dogs...overpriced dogs.
Mark Teixiera is done for the playoffs with a pulled hamstring. He was 0-14 in the series before going down. The baseball Gods probably said, "We can't watch this guy any more. Give him a pulled hammy."
Alex Rodriguez has stunk as has Posada, Gardner and especially Nick Swisher who has left a ton of guys on base.
Are the Yanks finished? No. Is there hope? Yes.
The next three scheduled starters are Sabathia, Hughes and Pettitte. All capable of pitching a great game. The hitters could wake up at any moment. But instead of thinking of winning three in a row, they need to just win a game to get things moving in the right direction.
Meanwhile, the Rangers have to do what they've been doing. That is smacking the hell out of the ball, getting great pitching and playing excellent defense. They are also running wild on the Yankees. So long Texas stays relaxed and keeps the pressure on the Yanks, there is a good chance they wrap it up today.
Funny, Yankees fans wanted no part of Cliff Lee in a Game 7 situation. Now every single Yankee fan is saying, "Yeah, I'd love to see the Yanks get a crack at Lee in Game 7 in Texas."
Can the Yankees come back to win the series? Of course they can. Will they? I don't know but I wouldn't count them out.
Still, if Texas wins the ALCS I'll be pulling for them in the World Series. They are a tough team to dislike.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Cubs Curious Move
I have nothing against Mike Quade (pronounced KWAH-dee). Nothing at all. But to hire him to be the manager of the Cubs over Ryne Sandberg is puzzling. Then again, they are the Cubs.
Yes the Cubs played better under Quade after Lou Piniella stepped down. But there was no pressure and guys knew they were playing for their jobs. He only managed 37 games, guiding the Cubs to a 24-13 record. That is a pretty small sampling to suddenly believe this is the guy who is going to lead the Cubs to their first World Series title since 1908.
Now that the Cubs have removed the interim tag on Quade by giving him a 2-year deal with an option for a third, the Cubs better be right on Quade. Because as long as Sandberg is managing the Cubs AAA team there will be talk of Sandberg as Cubs manager when/if Quade fails.
I thought Sandberg would be a no-brainer hire for the Cubs. Ryno, Hall of Fame player for the Cubs, has paid his managerial dues in the minor leagues. He would have instant have credibility in the clubhouse because he played the game and played it well.
Quade played 5 seasons in the minors, topping out at AA with 63 games played.
There have been plenty of managers who never played in the big leagues (Buck Showalter) or had weak Major League careers. Walter Alston, who struck out in his only big league at-bat comes to mind. That doesn't mean they can't manage. But I do think, especially in this day and age, that players respect a manager more if he played in the majors.
If I were the Cubs I would have hired Sandberg the day after the season ended. As it stands now, he'll probably get his shot at managing in the bigs with another team and that will be a shame.
Meanwhile, the Yankees have to be pleased. Joe Girardi, a free agent when the season ends, no longer has the option of going to the Cubs or using them as a bargaining chip. The Yankees just saved money. As if that's important to them.
Yes the Cubs played better under Quade after Lou Piniella stepped down. But there was no pressure and guys knew they were playing for their jobs. He only managed 37 games, guiding the Cubs to a 24-13 record. That is a pretty small sampling to suddenly believe this is the guy who is going to lead the Cubs to their first World Series title since 1908.
Now that the Cubs have removed the interim tag on Quade by giving him a 2-year deal with an option for a third, the Cubs better be right on Quade. Because as long as Sandberg is managing the Cubs AAA team there will be talk of Sandberg as Cubs manager when/if Quade fails.
I thought Sandberg would be a no-brainer hire for the Cubs. Ryno, Hall of Fame player for the Cubs, has paid his managerial dues in the minor leagues. He would have instant have credibility in the clubhouse because he played the game and played it well.
Quade played 5 seasons in the minors, topping out at AA with 63 games played.
There have been plenty of managers who never played in the big leagues (Buck Showalter) or had weak Major League careers. Walter Alston, who struck out in his only big league at-bat comes to mind. That doesn't mean they can't manage. But I do think, especially in this day and age, that players respect a manager more if he played in the majors.
If I were the Cubs I would have hired Sandberg the day after the season ended. As it stands now, he'll probably get his shot at managing in the bigs with another team and that will be a shame.
Meanwhile, the Yankees have to be pleased. Joe Girardi, a free agent when the season ends, no longer has the option of going to the Cubs or using them as a bargaining chip. The Yankees just saved money. As if that's important to them.
La Russa To Return
Tony La Russa will manage the Cardinals for a 16th season in 2011.
I was just looking at his numbers on www.baseball-reference.com and they are astounding.
First of all, it is difficult to believe that he's been managing the Cardinals for so long. He's managed the Cards for five more seasons than he piloted the Athletics. And it seemed as if he was in Oakland forever.
He also managed the White Sox for eight seasons.
You may like La Russa, plenty do, you may dislike La Russa, plenty do. But you can't say he's a job hopper. He seems to stay put for a while.
If he manages two more seasons, he'll pass John McGraw on the all-time list. McGraw has 2,763 wins, 126 more than La Russa's 2,638.
La Russa will be hard pressed though to pass the all-time leader, Cornelius Alexander McGillicuddy, better known as Connie Mack. The guy who managed in street clothes and was always called "Mr. Mack" by his players, won 3,731 games over the course of his 53-year managerial career. I don't think La Russa will manage 21 more seasons.
Interesting fact about Connie Mack is that he had a losing career record as a manager. He lost 3,948 games. The reason he had such good job security, 50-years as the Philadelphia Athletics skipper, is because he owned the ballclub!
Good trivia question: Which team did Mack manage for three years before he managed the A's?
Answer: The Pittsburgh Pirates, which he was the bench boss for beginning in 1894 at the age of 31.
He took over the Athletics in 1901, the first year of the American League and ended his reign at the age of 87 with a 52-102 campaign in 1950. Can you imagine anyone else managing a Major League team these days, or any team, at the age of 87?
I was just looking at his numbers on www.baseball-reference.com and they are astounding.
First of all, it is difficult to believe that he's been managing the Cardinals for so long. He's managed the Cards for five more seasons than he piloted the Athletics. And it seemed as if he was in Oakland forever.
He also managed the White Sox for eight seasons.
You may like La Russa, plenty do, you may dislike La Russa, plenty do. But you can't say he's a job hopper. He seems to stay put for a while.
If he manages two more seasons, he'll pass John McGraw on the all-time list. McGraw has 2,763 wins, 126 more than La Russa's 2,638.
La Russa will be hard pressed though to pass the all-time leader, Cornelius Alexander McGillicuddy, better known as Connie Mack. The guy who managed in street clothes and was always called "Mr. Mack" by his players, won 3,731 games over the course of his 53-year managerial career. I don't think La Russa will manage 21 more seasons.
Interesting fact about Connie Mack is that he had a losing career record as a manager. He lost 3,948 games. The reason he had such good job security, 50-years as the Philadelphia Athletics skipper, is because he owned the ballclub!
Good trivia question: Which team did Mack manage for three years before he managed the A's?
Answer: The Pittsburgh Pirates, which he was the bench boss for beginning in 1894 at the age of 31.
He took over the Athletics in 1901, the first year of the American League and ended his reign at the age of 87 with a 52-102 campaign in 1950. Can you imagine anyone else managing a Major League team these days, or any team, at the age of 87?
Wedge in Seattle
The Mariners have hired former Indians skipper Eric Wedge to be their new manager. With Seattle coming off a 101-loss season, it probably won't be tough for Wedge to improve on that mark.
I think Wedge is a good manager. He nearly reached the World Series in 2007 but the Tribe blew a 3-1 ALCS lead to the Bostons.
But is Wedge going to get people excited in Seattle?
Is he just another retread manager or is he actually going to be the guy to turn things around in Seattle?
I hope the Mariners get good again soon. I kind of like them for some reason. I like the stadium they play in, I enjoy watching Ichiro play (who doesn't besides Kevin Wheeler?) and they have nice uniforms. Believe me, it can be tough to root for a team that looks crappy.
I am angry though with the 2010 Mariners. I picked them to win the AL West. Even though I'm not the only one who picked them they embarrassed me and made me look like a chump!
Quick thought: With baseball players, and athletes in general, always using nicknames, is Wedge's nickname Wedgie?
I think Wedge is a good manager. He nearly reached the World Series in 2007 but the Tribe blew a 3-1 ALCS lead to the Bostons.
But is Wedge going to get people excited in Seattle?
Is he just another retread manager or is he actually going to be the guy to turn things around in Seattle?
I hope the Mariners get good again soon. I kind of like them for some reason. I like the stadium they play in, I enjoy watching Ichiro play (who doesn't besides Kevin Wheeler?) and they have nice uniforms. Believe me, it can be tough to root for a team that looks crappy.
I am angry though with the 2010 Mariners. I picked them to win the AL West. Even though I'm not the only one who picked them they embarrassed me and made me look like a chump!
Quick thought: With baseball players, and athletes in general, always using nicknames, is Wedge's nickname Wedgie?
Irony Is So Ironic
Still amazed that the George Steinbrenner plaque in Monument Park in the new Yankee Stadium is so huge and bigger than any other plaque or monument.
I hadn't read the inscription until I did so this morning for some reason.
I found the last line to be somewhat ironic.
A great philanthropist whose charitable efforts were mostly performed without fanfare, he followed a personal motto of the greatest form of charity is anonymity.
That's actually pretty funny.
I hadn't read the inscription until I did so this morning for some reason.
I found the last line to be somewhat ironic.
A great philanthropist whose charitable efforts were mostly performed without fanfare, he followed a personal motto of the greatest form of charity is anonymity.
That's actually pretty funny.
Not Last Night
Yesterday I said that Cliff Lee was beatable. I'm sure he is. But last night was not the night. The guy was unbelievable and unbeatable.
I wish I could stand in the batters box to see exactly how is ball moves. He isn't over-powering. He's as good as anyone changing speeds, but there has to be more to it than that. TV doesn't do justice to the late break on his pitches. He looks hittable on TV. But the guys in the batters box have a real tough time just taking decent hacks at the guy.
You know a pitcher is good when the other team gets 2-runs in the first inning, as Texas did last night on Josh Hamilton's home run, and you think, "Uh oh. That could be enough."
Lee made it stand up with 13 strikeouts and only 2 hits over 8-innings in the Rangers 8-0 win. Texas with 6-runs in the 9th salted it away.
As for Hamilton's home run, was that the worst looking swing that resulted in a homer that you've ever seen? For me, I can't remember the last time a swing that ugly resulted in a homer. Shows how strong Hamilton is and it also shows how easy it is to put one out in right field at the new Yankee Stadium.
Tonight, the Yanks hope A.J. Burnett can pitch a decent game for a change. They also pray the bats wake up against Texas righty Tommy Hunter.
Down 2-1, it's not a must win for the Yankees. I'm of the opinion a must win is only when you are facing elimination. However, it is a need very badly game. If the Yankees don't win the next three, they will probably end up getting Cliff Lee in a Game 7 situation. That isn't very appealing if you are the Yankees. Of course, Texas could wrap it up before then.
I wish I could stand in the batters box to see exactly how is ball moves. He isn't over-powering. He's as good as anyone changing speeds, but there has to be more to it than that. TV doesn't do justice to the late break on his pitches. He looks hittable on TV. But the guys in the batters box have a real tough time just taking decent hacks at the guy.
You know a pitcher is good when the other team gets 2-runs in the first inning, as Texas did last night on Josh Hamilton's home run, and you think, "Uh oh. That could be enough."
Lee made it stand up with 13 strikeouts and only 2 hits over 8-innings in the Rangers 8-0 win. Texas with 6-runs in the 9th salted it away.
As for Hamilton's home run, was that the worst looking swing that resulted in a homer that you've ever seen? For me, I can't remember the last time a swing that ugly resulted in a homer. Shows how strong Hamilton is and it also shows how easy it is to put one out in right field at the new Yankee Stadium.
Tonight, the Yanks hope A.J. Burnett can pitch a decent game for a change. They also pray the bats wake up against Texas righty Tommy Hunter.
Down 2-1, it's not a must win for the Yankees. I'm of the opinion a must win is only when you are facing elimination. However, it is a need very badly game. If the Yankees don't win the next three, they will probably end up getting Cliff Lee in a Game 7 situation. That isn't very appealing if you are the Yankees. Of course, Texas could wrap it up before then.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Win It For Freddy
Saw an item online yesterday that reported the passing of Freddy Sez.
Who is Freddy Sez? I'll explain.
Freddy, whose real last name I found out yesterday was Schuman, wandered around Yankee Stadium for years with a colorful sign that had some message paying homage to his beloved Yankees. It would say something like, "Freddy Sez the Yanks Are The Greatest and Can't Be Beat."
He always had a big frying pan and a huge metal spoon and he would let Yankee fans bang on the pan with the spoon. Made a huge racket.
You could hear Freddy before you could see him.
One day I'll be able to say to my grandchildren that I banged Freddy's pan. Which actually sounds kind of vulgar. Plus, since I don't have kids I probably won't have grandchildren to tell that too.
Anyway, Freddy apparently had a heart attack Friday night. Probably while watching the Yankees dramatic comeback win over the Rangers in Game 1 of the ALCS. He passed yesterday afternoon in a Manhattan hospital.
Freddy was 85. It was a good run. Too bad he couldn't have held out another few weeks to see his Yankees win World Series title number 28. He was alive for 26 of the Yankees 27 World Championships.
Maybe the Yankees battle cry will be, "Win it for Freddy!"
R.I.P. Freddy.
Who is Freddy Sez? I'll explain.
Freddy, whose real last name I found out yesterday was Schuman, wandered around Yankee Stadium for years with a colorful sign that had some message paying homage to his beloved Yankees. It would say something like, "Freddy Sez the Yanks Are The Greatest and Can't Be Beat."
He always had a big frying pan and a huge metal spoon and he would let Yankee fans bang on the pan with the spoon. Made a huge racket.
You could hear Freddy before you could see him.
One day I'll be able to say to my grandchildren that I banged Freddy's pan. Which actually sounds kind of vulgar. Plus, since I don't have kids I probably won't have grandchildren to tell that too.
Anyway, Freddy apparently had a heart attack Friday night. Probably while watching the Yankees dramatic comeback win over the Rangers in Game 1 of the ALCS. He passed yesterday afternoon in a Manhattan hospital.
Freddy was 85. It was a good run. Too bad he couldn't have held out another few weeks to see his Yankees win World Series title number 28. He was alive for 26 of the Yankees 27 World Championships.
Maybe the Yankees battle cry will be, "Win it for Freddy!"
R.I.P. Freddy.
I'm Not Afraid Of Cliff Lee
Of course, I don't have to bat against Cliff Lee so why would I be afraid of him?
Better yet, why would the Yankees be afraid of Lee?
I don't think they are. Lee is a great pitcher, no doubt about it and his post-season record is perfect (6-0).
However kids, the guy is beatable. For those with short memories, earlier this year in Texas Lee blew a 6-1 lead to the Yanks. Sandy Koufax he isn't.
This is a great opportunity for the Yankees. If they beat Lee, they severely damage the psyche of the Rangers.
As for the opposing moundsman, Andy Pettitte isn't exactly a slouch in the post-season is he? Rangers fans should be worrying about Pettitte just like Yankees fans are dreading facing Lee.
But that is what the post-season is all about. Great pitching matchups and to win the series you'll have to beat great pitchers.
While everyone was jacked up about the Tim Lincecum-Roy Halladay matchup in Game 1 of the NLCS, I'm just as excited about the Lee-Pettitte duel. Both great pitchers but both aren't invincible.
Should be a fun, raucous time in the Bronx.
Better yet, why would the Yankees be afraid of Lee?
I don't think they are. Lee is a great pitcher, no doubt about it and his post-season record is perfect (6-0).
However kids, the guy is beatable. For those with short memories, earlier this year in Texas Lee blew a 6-1 lead to the Yanks. Sandy Koufax he isn't.
This is a great opportunity for the Yankees. If they beat Lee, they severely damage the psyche of the Rangers.
As for the opposing moundsman, Andy Pettitte isn't exactly a slouch in the post-season is he? Rangers fans should be worrying about Pettitte just like Yankees fans are dreading facing Lee.
But that is what the post-season is all about. Great pitching matchups and to win the series you'll have to beat great pitchers.
While everyone was jacked up about the Tim Lincecum-Roy Halladay matchup in Game 1 of the NLCS, I'm just as excited about the Lee-Pettitte duel. Both great pitchers but both aren't invincible.
Should be a fun, raucous time in the Bronx.
Got What They Wanted
Naturally, when the visiting team wins the first game of a playoff series, they want to take the second game.
Both the Yankees and Giants did win Game 1 of the AlCS and NLCS. Both lost Game 2.
But the objective was to at least garner a split and that's what they did.
I didn't see much of the Yankees-Rangers opener on Friday night. Had to announce a high school football game. But I did catch the last inning and a half. Once Kinsler was picked off first after leading the 8th off with a walk, I was pretty certain that was it for Texas.
Game 2 a different story as Phil Hughes got lit up and Colby Lewis quieted the Yankees bats.
As for the Giants-Phillies, great job last night by Oswalt to stop San Fran on offense and Rollins collected 4 RBI's on the night.
The ALCS and NLCS both even at a game apiece heading to New York and San Fran.
These series have "Seven Games" written all over them.
Both the Yankees and Giants did win Game 1 of the AlCS and NLCS. Both lost Game 2.
But the objective was to at least garner a split and that's what they did.
I didn't see much of the Yankees-Rangers opener on Friday night. Had to announce a high school football game. But I did catch the last inning and a half. Once Kinsler was picked off first after leading the 8th off with a walk, I was pretty certain that was it for Texas.
Game 2 a different story as Phil Hughes got lit up and Colby Lewis quieted the Yankees bats.
As for the Giants-Phillies, great job last night by Oswalt to stop San Fran on offense and Rollins collected 4 RBI's on the night.
The ALCS and NLCS both even at a game apiece heading to New York and San Fran.
These series have "Seven Games" written all over them.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
And Then There Were Four
So much for the home field advantage.
The Rangers won their first post-season series ever with a 5-1 win over the Rays. Cliff Lee was awesome, as usual, going the distance with 11 strikeouts and Ian Kinsler's two-run homer in the top of the 9th sealed it.
The visting team won every game of the series.
The best thing about the Rangers taking the series? We don't have to watch any more games from Tropicana Field this year.
Game One Friday night, Yankees at Texas, Sabathia and Wilson the starters. Can't wait.
The Rangers won their first post-season series ever with a 5-1 win over the Rays. Cliff Lee was awesome, as usual, going the distance with 11 strikeouts and Ian Kinsler's two-run homer in the top of the 9th sealed it.
The visting team won every game of the series.
The best thing about the Rangers taking the series? We don't have to watch any more games from Tropicana Field this year.
Game One Friday night, Yankees at Texas, Sabathia and Wilson the starters. Can't wait.
Champagne Celebrations
In the NFL, NBA or NHL, when a team clinches a playoff spot, they don't break out the champagne and go nuts in the locker room. In baseball, by the way, it's a clubhouse, in other sports it's a locker room. In hockey it is acceptable to use dressing room too.
When an NFL, NBA or NHL team wins a playoff series, they don't break out the champagne and go nuts in the locker room.
When an NFL, NBA or NHL team wins the championship, THEN they break out the champagne and go nuts in the locker room.
Baseball it's different. When a team clinches the division or the wild card, they break out the Champagne and go nuts in the clubhouse.
When they win the division series, they break out the champagne and go nuts in the clubhouse.
When they win the league pennant, they go nuts in the clubhouse.
And when a team wins the World Series, guess what? They breakout the champagne and go nuts in the clubhouse.
So, let's break it down. An NFL, NBA or NHL team has one champagne celebration in them and that is after winning the championship.
A baseball team that wins the World Series will have FOUR Champagne celebrations, all in the span of about a month.
Is it just me or do you find all these champagne celebrations excessive? Or on the opposite end of the spectrum, how about champagne celebrations after every win during the regular season and post-season. Shoot, what about practicing wild champagne celebrations after spring training wins. That is what spring training is for anyway, to prepare the team for the season and if champagne celebrations are part of it they need to practice it.
Seriously, these celebrations are getting played out and tedious and takes away from the what the real celebration should be...celebrating a World Series title.
When an NFL, NBA or NHL team wins a playoff series, they don't break out the champagne and go nuts in the locker room.
When an NFL, NBA or NHL team wins the championship, THEN they break out the champagne and go nuts in the locker room.
Baseball it's different. When a team clinches the division or the wild card, they break out the Champagne and go nuts in the clubhouse.
When they win the division series, they break out the champagne and go nuts in the clubhouse.
When they win the league pennant, they go nuts in the clubhouse.
And when a team wins the World Series, guess what? They breakout the champagne and go nuts in the clubhouse.
So, let's break it down. An NFL, NBA or NHL team has one champagne celebration in them and that is after winning the championship.
A baseball team that wins the World Series will have FOUR Champagne celebrations, all in the span of about a month.
Is it just me or do you find all these champagne celebrations excessive? Or on the opposite end of the spectrum, how about champagne celebrations after every win during the regular season and post-season. Shoot, what about practicing wild champagne celebrations after spring training wins. That is what spring training is for anyway, to prepare the team for the season and if champagne celebrations are part of it they need to practice it.
Seriously, these celebrations are getting played out and tedious and takes away from the what the real celebration should be...celebrating a World Series title.
Surprising Stat
Looking at the stats of the Giants and Phillies, I was surprised to learn that San Francisco hit 162 homers in the regular season while Philadelphia hit 166.
I would have expected the Phillies, who play 81 games in a small, home run friendly park, to have a lot more home runs than the Giants who play in a big park where the ball doesn't travel much at night.
All off season and during much of the season, plenty was made of the Giants offense, or lack of. I thought that while San Fran had great pitching, their lack of slugging would do them in. Some key moves like adding Aubrey Huff in the off-season, picking up Pat Burrell during the season and making Buster Posey their full-time catcher did wonders for their offensive output. While these Giants won't be compared to the 1961 Yankees, they certainly are a better offensive unit than people realize. Or at least better than I realized.
This should be a fun series. Game one, Lincecum versus Halladay? Are you kidding me. This is matchup is like Christmas morning in October.
I would have expected the Phillies, who play 81 games in a small, home run friendly park, to have a lot more home runs than the Giants who play in a big park where the ball doesn't travel much at night.
All off season and during much of the season, plenty was made of the Giants offense, or lack of. I thought that while San Fran had great pitching, their lack of slugging would do them in. Some key moves like adding Aubrey Huff in the off-season, picking up Pat Burrell during the season and making Buster Posey their full-time catcher did wonders for their offensive output. While these Giants won't be compared to the 1961 Yankees, they certainly are a better offensive unit than people realize. Or at least better than I realized.
This should be a fun series. Game one, Lincecum versus Halladay? Are you kidding me. This is matchup is like Christmas morning in October.
Umpire Positioning
There has been a lot of talk about umpires in this post-season. We've already had a few blown calls and the talk of replay has come up again.
In the wake of Brooks Conrad's third error the other day, there has been talk about the positioning of umpires.
When I saw Conrad's third error I immediately wondered if he lost sight of the ball because the grounder went past the umpire who was stationed on the infield grass. As Conrad moved to his right it looked as if for a split second the umpire was in his line of vision.
To Conrad's credit he didn't blame the umpire or anybody for letting the ball go through his legs which cost the Braves a run and the game. No excuses from Conrad. But the next time you see the replay look at the positioning of the umpire.
I've played a lot of baseball in my day, mostly middle infield, short or second. I still play in an old guys league. I've always hated umpires stationing themselves on the infield grass. There are many times when a grounder is hit to either side of you and you do lose sight of the ball for a fraction of a second. I don't like seeing an umpire move around in front of me when a ball is hit in my direction. This year during a game, I made a throwing error when I fielded a ball at short and the umpire was running from the infield grass towards first to get in good position to make a call. However, as I was in the middle of my throw the ump was directly between me and the first baseman. I altered my throw a bit, not wanting to hit the umpire (he's in play afterall), and the ball floated towards the first base line for an error. I was mad because he interfered with my throw. So yes, umpires do get in the way of infielders. I would much prefer they position themselves a few feet beyond the lip of the outfield grass. They would still have plenty of time to get into position to make a call, they wouldn't be in the way of a fielder and would have more time to get out of the way of a sharply hit ball.
Also, in the Major Leagues, in the post-season, umpires are stationed down the first and third base lines. It sounds good in theory but they are poorly positioned anyway. These extra umpires are way too close to the first and third base umpires. They are about 60 or so feet behind the infield umps, rendering them basically useless. They should be stationed deep, near the corners. Then they wouldn't have to turn to watch a ball, it would likely be in front of them. Plus, it is easier to run in than back. I don't know why they stand so close to the infield when they are needed for plays in the outfield, especially for fan interferance, fair or foul calls, plays at the wall and home run calls.
Baseball, at all levels need to examine if it is time to reposition the umpires so they don't become a distraction or a hindrance. One look at the Conrad error I wrote of at the top of this piece should convince baseball they need to fix this problem.
In the wake of Brooks Conrad's third error the other day, there has been talk about the positioning of umpires.
When I saw Conrad's third error I immediately wondered if he lost sight of the ball because the grounder went past the umpire who was stationed on the infield grass. As Conrad moved to his right it looked as if for a split second the umpire was in his line of vision.
To Conrad's credit he didn't blame the umpire or anybody for letting the ball go through his legs which cost the Braves a run and the game. No excuses from Conrad. But the next time you see the replay look at the positioning of the umpire.
I've played a lot of baseball in my day, mostly middle infield, short or second. I still play in an old guys league. I've always hated umpires stationing themselves on the infield grass. There are many times when a grounder is hit to either side of you and you do lose sight of the ball for a fraction of a second. I don't like seeing an umpire move around in front of me when a ball is hit in my direction. This year during a game, I made a throwing error when I fielded a ball at short and the umpire was running from the infield grass towards first to get in good position to make a call. However, as I was in the middle of my throw the ump was directly between me and the first baseman. I altered my throw a bit, not wanting to hit the umpire (he's in play afterall), and the ball floated towards the first base line for an error. I was mad because he interfered with my throw. So yes, umpires do get in the way of infielders. I would much prefer they position themselves a few feet beyond the lip of the outfield grass. They would still have plenty of time to get into position to make a call, they wouldn't be in the way of a fielder and would have more time to get out of the way of a sharply hit ball.
Also, in the Major Leagues, in the post-season, umpires are stationed down the first and third base lines. It sounds good in theory but they are poorly positioned anyway. These extra umpires are way too close to the first and third base umpires. They are about 60 or so feet behind the infield umps, rendering them basically useless. They should be stationed deep, near the corners. Then they wouldn't have to turn to watch a ball, it would likely be in front of them. Plus, it is easier to run in than back. I don't know why they stand so close to the infield when they are needed for plays in the outfield, especially for fan interferance, fair or foul calls, plays at the wall and home run calls.
Baseball, at all levels need to examine if it is time to reposition the umpires so they don't become a distraction or a hindrance. One look at the Conrad error I wrote of at the top of this piece should convince baseball they need to fix this problem.
Brian Wilson's Beard
Giants closer Brian Wilson has been light's out this year. The game is pretty much over when he comes in. Like most closers, he tends to make it interesting as he did last night by walking two Braves batters in the ninth. But he got out of it and the Giants are on the way to Philadelphia.
Anyway, more impressive than his pitching is his scruffy black beard. It looks fake, doesn't it? It doesn't even match the color of his hair. I could see him after a game carefully removing his beard, taking a shower and walking out of the park unhassled by autograph seekers also known by the players as "green flies" (annoying pests). Off topic here: Players hate autograph seekers and will do everything they can to avoid them. While most are cordial and accommodating to the autograph hound, they can't stand them. Kids are usually not a problem, its the middle aged guy begging for autographs that players hate and try all sorts of maneuvers to avoid. They'll take different exits out of the park. I've even heard of players donning disguises to leave the park and avoid signing autographs. For some guys it is a game to avoid the autograph hounds.
Anyway, Wilson's Fidel Castro-like beard is pretty impressive. I'm just glad it's on his face and not mine.
Anyway, more impressive than his pitching is his scruffy black beard. It looks fake, doesn't it? It doesn't even match the color of his hair. I could see him after a game carefully removing his beard, taking a shower and walking out of the park unhassled by autograph seekers also known by the players as "green flies" (annoying pests). Off topic here: Players hate autograph seekers and will do everything they can to avoid them. While most are cordial and accommodating to the autograph hound, they can't stand them. Kids are usually not a problem, its the middle aged guy begging for autographs that players hate and try all sorts of maneuvers to avoid. They'll take different exits out of the park. I've even heard of players donning disguises to leave the park and avoid signing autographs. For some guys it is a game to avoid the autograph hounds.
Anyway, Wilson's Fidel Castro-like beard is pretty impressive. I'm just glad it's on his face and not mine.
Un-Bleeping-Believeable
Top of the 4th inning in Game 5 of the Rangers-Rays series. The DECIDING Game 5. The season on the line.
Two outs, slugger Nelson Cruz at the plate. He takes a David Price pitch deep to center, very deep. It hits off the top of the wall and takes a bounce away from B.J. Upton in center.
Cruz ends up on...second? What? He's got decent speed. He should have been standing on third and with a bobble or bad relay maybe he even makes it home. But he's on second base. Why?
Because he stood at the plate admiring his blast, that's why. He thought it was a homer. Wrong! The season is hanging in the balance and he feels it is appropriate to style at the plate and Cadillac his way to second. Unreal. I am so pissed off at not only Cruz but all the look-at-me first, team second jackasses we see not run hard time and time again. What the hell are they thinking? You hit the ball, you run hard. When you see the ball leave the field then, and only then, you breakout the home run trot. Now, if you hit the ball 450 feet and there is absolutely no doubt, you still run hard in my opinion, but if you want to style a bit (a little bit), I can't complain about that too much. But when the ball barely clears the fence, or in this case, bangs off the wall, you better be running.
Fortunately for Cruz, he stole third base on the next pitch and scored when Kelly Shoppach's throw went into left field. Still, if I'm Texas manager Ron Washington, I take Cruz down into the tunnel and lay into him. Not running hard in the regular season is bad enough, not to do it in the deciding game of a playoff series borders on criminal.
Two outs, slugger Nelson Cruz at the plate. He takes a David Price pitch deep to center, very deep. It hits off the top of the wall and takes a bounce away from B.J. Upton in center.
Cruz ends up on...second? What? He's got decent speed. He should have been standing on third and with a bobble or bad relay maybe he even makes it home. But he's on second base. Why?
Because he stood at the plate admiring his blast, that's why. He thought it was a homer. Wrong! The season is hanging in the balance and he feels it is appropriate to style at the plate and Cadillac his way to second. Unreal. I am so pissed off at not only Cruz but all the look-at-me first, team second jackasses we see not run hard time and time again. What the hell are they thinking? You hit the ball, you run hard. When you see the ball leave the field then, and only then, you breakout the home run trot. Now, if you hit the ball 450 feet and there is absolutely no doubt, you still run hard in my opinion, but if you want to style a bit (a little bit), I can't complain about that too much. But when the ball barely clears the fence, or in this case, bangs off the wall, you better be running.
Fortunately for Cruz, he stole third base on the next pitch and scored when Kelly Shoppach's throw went into left field. Still, if I'm Texas manager Ron Washington, I take Cruz down into the tunnel and lay into him. Not running hard in the regular season is bad enough, not to do it in the deciding game of a playoff series borders on criminal.
Joltin' Joe...Lahoud?
There is a great website I visit often, www.baseball-fever.com.
Being a fan of ballparks, I go specifically go to the ballparks and stadiums section. I enjoy looking at pictures of ballyards, past and present, and the discussions from the many posters.
Which brings me to a thread I was reading last night titled, "Old Yankee Stadium Demolition."
I was looking at a picture, taken by a guy named Gary Dunaier in March, of the last portion of the upper deck coming down, the upper deck in right field. I sat many times in the upper deck in right as well as various other sections of the ballpark. There isn't a place in Yankee Stadium that I hadn't sat in.
Looking at that picture made me think of the most impressive batting practice display I have ever seen.
During BP one day in 1977 or 78, a guy named Joe Lahoud hit 7-consecutive pitches into the upper deck in right field. I don't recall if he exited the cage after that 7th BP homer or if he took another swing and left the cage after not hitting a ball up there. Either way, seven straight pitches to the left-handed hitting Lahoud landed in the upper deck in right. I do remember that he got a standing ovation from the fans scattered throughout the ballpark. I was sitting in the upper deck behind home plate and couldn't believe a guy could hit seven straight pitches up there. Even in batting practice that isn't easy. I've never seen a guy get a standing "O" in batting practice before or since.
Joe Lahoud played 11-seasons in the Major Leagues with the Red Sox, Brewers, Angels, Rangers and Royals. He had a career average of just .225 with 65 homers and 218 RBI's. Most people have probably forgotten Joe Lahoud. But I'll never forget him and his ferocious power display as he assualted the right field upper deck at Yankee Stadium.
Being a fan of ballparks, I go specifically go to the ballparks and stadiums section. I enjoy looking at pictures of ballyards, past and present, and the discussions from the many posters.
Which brings me to a thread I was reading last night titled, "Old Yankee Stadium Demolition."
I was looking at a picture, taken by a guy named Gary Dunaier in March, of the last portion of the upper deck coming down, the upper deck in right field. I sat many times in the upper deck in right as well as various other sections of the ballpark. There isn't a place in Yankee Stadium that I hadn't sat in.
Looking at that picture made me think of the most impressive batting practice display I have ever seen.
During BP one day in 1977 or 78, a guy named Joe Lahoud hit 7-consecutive pitches into the upper deck in right field. I don't recall if he exited the cage after that 7th BP homer or if he took another swing and left the cage after not hitting a ball up there. Either way, seven straight pitches to the left-handed hitting Lahoud landed in the upper deck in right. I do remember that he got a standing ovation from the fans scattered throughout the ballpark. I was sitting in the upper deck behind home plate and couldn't believe a guy could hit seven straight pitches up there. Even in batting practice that isn't easy. I've never seen a guy get a standing "O" in batting practice before or since.
Joe Lahoud played 11-seasons in the Major Leagues with the Red Sox, Brewers, Angels, Rangers and Royals. He had a career average of just .225 with 65 homers and 218 RBI's. Most people have probably forgotten Joe Lahoud. But I'll never forget him and his ferocious power display as he assualted the right field upper deck at Yankee Stadium.
Good Series
I'm not a fan of the five game division series. If I could, I would make it a best of seven series. The five game series is too much of a crapshoot.
But another reason I'm in favor of the seven game series is because of matchups like the Giants and Braves. Four games wasn't enough with these two teams. It was a great series, each game decided by one run. Who wouldn't want to see more of that?
The Giants eliminated the Braves 3-2 last evening and with it ends Bobby Cox's 29-year managerial career, the last 25 with the Braves.
Here's how I know I'm really getting old. I not only remember when Cox managed the Blue Jays, I remember, vaguely, him playing for the Yankees. Must have remembered him a bit from old Yankees yearbooks or something but I do remember him as a third baseman for the Yanks.
Cox exits with 2,504 wins over those 29-seasons, 5 pennants, 4 Manager of the Year awards but, just one World Series title, in 1995 over the Indians.
Only three other managers have more wins: Connie Mack (3,731), John McGraw (2,763) and Tony La Russa (2,638).
It was also a nice gesture following the game last night when Cox came out of the clubhouse and saluted the fans on the field. The Giants interrupted their celebration to exit their dugout and applaud Cox.
It will be strange not to see Bobby Cox in the Braves dugout next season.
But another reason I'm in favor of the seven game series is because of matchups like the Giants and Braves. Four games wasn't enough with these two teams. It was a great series, each game decided by one run. Who wouldn't want to see more of that?
The Giants eliminated the Braves 3-2 last evening and with it ends Bobby Cox's 29-year managerial career, the last 25 with the Braves.
Here's how I know I'm really getting old. I not only remember when Cox managed the Blue Jays, I remember, vaguely, him playing for the Yankees. Must have remembered him a bit from old Yankees yearbooks or something but I do remember him as a third baseman for the Yanks.
Cox exits with 2,504 wins over those 29-seasons, 5 pennants, 4 Manager of the Year awards but, just one World Series title, in 1995 over the Indians.
Only three other managers have more wins: Connie Mack (3,731), John McGraw (2,763) and Tony La Russa (2,638).
It was also a nice gesture following the game last night when Cox came out of the clubhouse and saluted the fans on the field. The Giants interrupted their celebration to exit their dugout and applaud Cox.
It will be strange not to see Bobby Cox in the Braves dugout next season.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Out With A Whimper
Wow. That's all I can say about Cole Hamels performance in Game 3 tonight at Cincinnati as the Phillies lefty went the distance with nine punch outs as Philadelphia put the Reds out of their misery 2-0. Hamels looked like he did in 2008.
First the Reds get no-hit by Roy Halladay. Then they cough up a 4-0 lead in Game 2 with shoddy fielding (4 errors). Finally, they get shut down by Hamels.
Three games for the Reds, 10 total hits and shut out twice.
Not a good showing in Cincy's first post-season in 15-years.
I'm not surprised though. The Reds were in Colorado, September 6-9, and dropped all four games to the Rockies. I remember Ed Henderson and I agreeing in the press box at Coors Field that the Reds aren't that good. Granted, every team goes through a bad four game stretch at one point or another during the season. But since it was September and not May it was alarming that the Reds played so poorly. There was nothing really impressive about Cincinnati then and nothing impressive about them against the Phillies.
While I credit the Reds for making it to the playoffs, I have to say they took advantage of a playing in a rancid division with the favored Cardinals underachieving. The fact that they had a losing record against every team that had a winning record this season was also a red flag (no pun intended) that the Reds were not a great team by any stretch.
Still, it was nice to see the Reds in the post-season after such a long layoff. Too bad they couldn't have stayed around a bit longer.
First the Reds get no-hit by Roy Halladay. Then they cough up a 4-0 lead in Game 2 with shoddy fielding (4 errors). Finally, they get shut down by Hamels.
Three games for the Reds, 10 total hits and shut out twice.
Not a good showing in Cincy's first post-season in 15-years.
I'm not surprised though. The Reds were in Colorado, September 6-9, and dropped all four games to the Rockies. I remember Ed Henderson and I agreeing in the press box at Coors Field that the Reds aren't that good. Granted, every team goes through a bad four game stretch at one point or another during the season. But since it was September and not May it was alarming that the Reds played so poorly. There was nothing really impressive about Cincinnati then and nothing impressive about them against the Phillies.
While I credit the Reds for making it to the playoffs, I have to say they took advantage of a playing in a rancid division with the favored Cardinals underachieving. The fact that they had a losing record against every team that had a winning record this season was also a red flag (no pun intended) that the Reds were not a great team by any stretch.
Still, it was nice to see the Reds in the post-season after such a long layoff. Too bad they couldn't have stayed around a bit longer.
Brooks Conrad
You aren't human if you don't feel for Brooks Conrad, the Braves second baseman who made three costly errors in Game 3 which helped the Giants win the game 3-2 and take a 2-1 series edge.
Even if you are pulling for the Giants, you have to feel bad that Conrad was the goat.
In his last 8 games at second base, Conrad has made 7 errors. Granted, he's playing out of position. He's in there because Chipper Jones is out for the year with an injury and Omar Infante had to go to third base. Also, Martin Prado is out with an injury so Conrad has to play second.
I would love to see Conrad come through in Game 4 and have a key hit or two to help the Braves win. Better yet, I'd love to see Conrad save the game with a brilliant defensive play.
I had a sudden thought. I wouldn't want to be in Brooks Conrad's shoes tonight. But then I re-thought that stance. Yes I'd want to be in Brooks Conrad's shoes tonight. That means I'd be in the big leagues...which I have to admit is better than what I'm doing now, no offense intended to my employers.
Anyway, if you've played the game of baseball, you know how crappy it is to cost your team with an error. Or two. Or three. I know, I've been there...just not on the grand stage that Conrad was on today.
Even if you are pulling for the Giants, you have to feel bad that Conrad was the goat.
In his last 8 games at second base, Conrad has made 7 errors. Granted, he's playing out of position. He's in there because Chipper Jones is out for the year with an injury and Omar Infante had to go to third base. Also, Martin Prado is out with an injury so Conrad has to play second.
I would love to see Conrad come through in Game 4 and have a key hit or two to help the Braves win. Better yet, I'd love to see Conrad save the game with a brilliant defensive play.
I had a sudden thought. I wouldn't want to be in Brooks Conrad's shoes tonight. But then I re-thought that stance. Yes I'd want to be in Brooks Conrad's shoes tonight. That means I'd be in the big leagues...which I have to admit is better than what I'm doing now, no offense intended to my employers.
Anyway, if you've played the game of baseball, you know how crappy it is to cost your team with an error. Or two. Or three. I know, I've been there...just not on the grand stage that Conrad was on today.
What Home Field Advantage
Kevin Wheeler from KMOX radio, who comes on our radio show every Sunday night, is a firm believer the home field advantage is overrated in baseball. I tend to agree with him.
Case in point the Rangers-Rays series.
After the first two games it appeared the Rays were toast after losing both games at Tropicana Field. So, what do they do? They go on the road and win a pair of games at Texas.
The Rangers had the Rays on the ropes in Game 3 but couldn't close it out. The Rays won Game 4 pretty handily, 5-2, so we have a win or go home showdown Tuesday night in Tampa. Quite a pitching matchup too as Cliff Lee goes for the Rangers while Tampa Bay counters with David Price.
If I had to wager on this game I would go with Lee and the Rangers. Plus, the Rays have the home field dis-advantage. At least for this series.
Case in point the Rangers-Rays series.
After the first two games it appeared the Rays were toast after losing both games at Tropicana Field. So, what do they do? They go on the road and win a pair of games at Texas.
The Rangers had the Rays on the ropes in Game 3 but couldn't close it out. The Rays won Game 4 pretty handily, 5-2, so we have a win or go home showdown Tuesday night in Tampa. Quite a pitching matchup too as Cliff Lee goes for the Rangers while Tampa Bay counters with David Price.
If I had to wager on this game I would go with Lee and the Rangers. Plus, the Rays have the home field dis-advantage. At least for this series.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Twins Yanked Out Of Playoffs
It's fair to say the Twins pucker up when they have to play the Yankees. Regular season, post-season, it doesn't matter. The Twins can't beat the Yankees.
Tonight at the new stadium, Phil Hughes and the Yankees shut down Minnesota 6-1, completing a 3-game sweep and advancing to the ALCS against the Rays or Rangers.
Next year, if the Twins have to play the Yanks again in the playoffs, they should just forfeit. Why bother?
The Twins have lost their last 12 post-season games including the last 9 to the Yankees.
So the Yanks are the first team to advance. Tomorrow, there will be three games with the Phils and Rangers looking to clinch. Only the Giants-Braves series has no chance to be decided tomorrow.
Final thought before I go to bed. It must be a rough thing to be a Twins fan. But not as bad as being a Pirates or Royals fan I would imagine.
Good night.
Tonight at the new stadium, Phil Hughes and the Yankees shut down Minnesota 6-1, completing a 3-game sweep and advancing to the ALCS against the Rays or Rangers.
Next year, if the Twins have to play the Yanks again in the playoffs, they should just forfeit. Why bother?
The Twins have lost their last 12 post-season games including the last 9 to the Yankees.
So the Yanks are the first team to advance. Tomorrow, there will be three games with the Phils and Rangers looking to clinch. Only the Giants-Braves series has no chance to be decided tomorrow.
Final thought before I go to bed. It must be a rough thing to be a Twins fan. But not as bad as being a Pirates or Royals fan I would imagine.
Good night.
It's Not The Same Ballpark
Ernie Johnson on TBS is talking about the great Yankees tradition. He spoke of Bob Sheppard, the legendary PA man for the Yankees who died this summer at the age of 99. Johnson was talking about Sheppard as the "voice of Yankee Stadium right here."
Um, Ernie. It's a different ballpark. Bob Sheppard never announced in the "new" Yankee Stadium. He announced in the original and renovated Yankee Stadium that is now torn down.
It bugs me when people talk about the history of Yankee Stadium, meaning the new ballpark. While it has a years worth of history, including a World Series last year, it shouldn't be referred to as a place with so much history. That place was knocked down and destroyed and took the history it had with it.
Um, Ernie. It's a different ballpark. Bob Sheppard never announced in the "new" Yankee Stadium. He announced in the original and renovated Yankee Stadium that is now torn down.
It bugs me when people talk about the history of Yankee Stadium, meaning the new ballpark. While it has a years worth of history, including a World Series last year, it shouldn't be referred to as a place with so much history. That place was knocked down and destroyed and took the history it had with it.
Run Damn it, RUN!
I'm really getting tired of seeing players not run hard on the bases. It's infuriating.
The Yankees rarely have players not run hard but tonight there was an exception.
Bottom of the third, two outs, Nick Swisher doubled to left-center. That brought up Mark Teixeira. Teixeira lined one off the left-field wall, a bullet that Delmon Young played on a hop. It was hit so hard that Teixeira only got a single.
Meanwhile, Swisher was jogging around third. Suppose Teixeira decided to go for a double. If he gets thrown out at second before Swisher scores, then the inning is over and the run doesn't count. Maybe Teixeira saw Swisher jogging around third and to insure the run stayed at first instead of going for two.
So the run scored, an RBI single for the Yankees first baseman. But that kind of lazy running on the basepaths by Swisher has a way of showing up at very inopportune times.
By the way, I hate typing out Mark Teixeira's name. Mark is such a difficult name to spell properly. I'm always thinking, is it Mark with a K or Marc with a C?
The Yankees rarely have players not run hard but tonight there was an exception.
Bottom of the third, two outs, Nick Swisher doubled to left-center. That brought up Mark Teixeira. Teixeira lined one off the left-field wall, a bullet that Delmon Young played on a hop. It was hit so hard that Teixeira only got a single.
Meanwhile, Swisher was jogging around third. Suppose Teixeira decided to go for a double. If he gets thrown out at second before Swisher scores, then the inning is over and the run doesn't count. Maybe Teixeira saw Swisher jogging around third and to insure the run stayed at first instead of going for two.
So the run scored, an RBI single for the Yankees first baseman. But that kind of lazy running on the basepaths by Swisher has a way of showing up at very inopportune times.
By the way, I hate typing out Mark Teixeira's name. Mark is such a difficult name to spell properly. I'm always thinking, is it Mark with a K or Marc with a C?
Mayor Idiot
I read today that New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is planning the Yankees World Series victory parade.
WHAT? YOU STUPID BLEEPING ASSWIPE. YOU DON'T PLAN A PARADE UNTIL THE TEAM ACTUALLY WINS THE WORLD SERIES!
Damn, this is really, really stupid on Bloomberg's part. What a schmuck.
If the Yankees don't win it he will be blamed for "jinxing" the team. If they do win, he'll look like a pompous arrogant ass anyway.
Plus, the Yankees have won a few times in their history. It won't take much planning to have a parade down the Canyon of Heroes in New York.
Here is all the planning the Mayor has to do. He just has to say to his planners, "Hey, if the Yanks win the series, just do what we did last year. OK, let's get some lunch."
WHAT? YOU STUPID BLEEPING ASSWIPE. YOU DON'T PLAN A PARADE UNTIL THE TEAM ACTUALLY WINS THE WORLD SERIES!
Damn, this is really, really stupid on Bloomberg's part. What a schmuck.
If the Yankees don't win it he will be blamed for "jinxing" the team. If they do win, he'll look like a pompous arrogant ass anyway.
Plus, the Yankees have won a few times in their history. It won't take much planning to have a parade down the Canyon of Heroes in New York.
Here is all the planning the Mayor has to do. He just has to say to his planners, "Hey, if the Yanks win the series, just do what we did last year. OK, let's get some lunch."
Gwynn Battles Cancer
Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn has cancer of the salivary gland. The 50-year old Padres legend and current head coach at San Diego State, had a great quote. He said, "They say this is a slow-moving but aggressive form of cancer. I'm going to be aggressive and not slow-moving in treating this." Good attitude. I'm hoping and praying he beats this thing and I'm confident he will.
Gwynn attributes his cancer to chewing tobacco during his playing days. That stuff is nasty and I can't understand why anyone would chew that crap. It causes oral cancer, throat cancer and stomach cancer among others. Is is a nasty habit.
Funny, minor league baseball likes to thrust its chest out by claiming they have banned and eliminated chewing tobacco. Bullspit.
Chewing tobacco is very prevalent in the minors. I saw it first hand when I announced minor league ball for five seasons. Guys may not chew it on the field or in the dugout. But they chew it everywhere else. The umpires, who are supposed to enforce the no-chewing rule, don't do it since most of them chew as well. Anytime you hear someone say they don't chew tobacco in the minors is lying or they don't know what they are talking about. It's just chewed more discreetly. Some guys actually wrap their dip around bubble gum and get their fix that way.
I hope Gwynn beats his cancer and I also hope it gets many people, young and old to quit the habit or just not start.
Gwynn attributes his cancer to chewing tobacco during his playing days. That stuff is nasty and I can't understand why anyone would chew that crap. It causes oral cancer, throat cancer and stomach cancer among others. Is is a nasty habit.
Funny, minor league baseball likes to thrust its chest out by claiming they have banned and eliminated chewing tobacco. Bullspit.
Chewing tobacco is very prevalent in the minors. I saw it first hand when I announced minor league ball for five seasons. Guys may not chew it on the field or in the dugout. But they chew it everywhere else. The umpires, who are supposed to enforce the no-chewing rule, don't do it since most of them chew as well. Anytime you hear someone say they don't chew tobacco in the minors is lying or they don't know what they are talking about. It's just chewed more discreetly. Some guys actually wrap their dip around bubble gum and get their fix that way.
I hope Gwynn beats his cancer and I also hope it gets many people, young and old to quit the habit or just not start.
Rays Sack Up
Down 2-1 heading into the 8th inning, the Rays season was on the line. They scored 2 in the 8th and 3 in the 9th to earn a 6-3 win and force a Game 4.
Texas has to be kicking themselves. The bullpen couldn't get it done.
Game 4 starters: Wade Davis against Tommy Hunter. Davis, with an ERA over 4, will have a tough time against Texas. Hunter, at 13-4, has the stuff to stymie the Rays.
I'd say advantage Texas.
Texas has to be kicking themselves. The bullpen couldn't get it done.
Game 4 starters: Wade Davis against Tommy Hunter. Davis, with an ERA over 4, will have a tough time against Texas. Hunter, at 13-4, has the stuff to stymie the Rays.
I'd say advantage Texas.
Kinsler
One of my favorite players is Ian Kinsler of the Rangers. I like the way he plays the game. But even more so, I like the way he wears his socks. His pants end at the knees and his socks are pulled up. He looks like a ballplayer. Not like some of these guys with the pajama pants worn all the way down to their cleats. They look like clowns.
Kinsler had a big home run today to give the Rangers a 2-1 lead over the Rays but Tampa has rallied and it looks like they'll extend the series to a Game 4.
Kinsler had a big home run today to give the Rangers a 2-1 lead over the Rays but Tampa has rallied and it looks like they'll extend the series to a Game 4.
Doc Punched His Hall Ticket
Roy Halladay's no-hitter in Game 1 of the playoffs against the Reds pretty much sealed a future induction to the Hall of Fame for Halladay.
Sure, he's 33-years old and has a career record of 169-86, which is impressive but not yet Hall worthy. He's had threes seasons of 20 or more wins and also tossed a perfect game, this season against the Marlins.
While he labored in relative obscurity in Toronto, now that he's with the Phillies and in the post-season, he can showcase his talent.
Providing he stays healthy, and there is no reason to think he won't have several more prime years, he should be a shoe-in for the Hall of Fame.
Here's one for you. Who is the best pitcher ever from the state of Colorado?
Here are your candidates: Doc Halladay and Goose Gossage.
I'll go with Gossage for now since he is in the Hall of Fame. If you ask me this question in five years I might have a different answer.
Sure, he's 33-years old and has a career record of 169-86, which is impressive but not yet Hall worthy. He's had threes seasons of 20 or more wins and also tossed a perfect game, this season against the Marlins.
While he labored in relative obscurity in Toronto, now that he's with the Phillies and in the post-season, he can showcase his talent.
Providing he stays healthy, and there is no reason to think he won't have several more prime years, he should be a shoe-in for the Hall of Fame.
Here's one for you. Who is the best pitcher ever from the state of Colorado?
Here are your candidates: Doc Halladay and Goose Gossage.
I'll go with Gossage for now since he is in the Hall of Fame. If you ask me this question in five years I might have a different answer.
Playoffs Thoughts
Sorry I haven't updated MysteriousWalker for a few days. But I'm back now and that's what counts homies.
Starting in the National League, the Reds coughed up a golden opportunity to even their series with the Phillies. Up 4-0, Cincinnati's usually golden defense let them down as the Phils rallied to win yesterday 7-4. If you commit 4 errors, as the Reds did, you don't deserve to win.
As for game one, Roy Halladay's no-hitter was simply amazing. The guy is a machine.
So, the Reds down 2-0 in the best of 5 series are heading home. Is it over for the Reds? Well, it doesn't look good does it?
The Braves picked up an improbable win in Game 2 at San Fran. The Giants had a 3-0 lead and let it slip away.
After Tim Lincecum's 2-hit, 14 punchout game in the opener, the Giants have to be kicking themselves for allowing the Braves to mount a late comeback and win 5-4 in 11-innings on a blast into McCovey cove by Rick Ankiel.
The thing that really amazed me about this game took place in the bottom of the 10th. With the game tied at 4, the Giants had the bases loaded with one out. Buster Posey hit a grounder to Troy Glaus at third. I would have thrown home to get the force out. When Glaus went to second, I thought, "What is he doing?" Omar Infante made a nice turn at second and they got Posey easily at first.
So the Braves tie the series heading back to Atlanta where they had the best home record in baseball. Plus, Tim Hudson will go in Game 3 for the Braves against Jonathan Sanchez. Advantage Atlanta.
In the American League, the Rays bats were silent the first two games, scoring just 1 run total. The Rangers simply dominated the Rays at the Trop. Surprising? Yes, absolutely. I figured the Rangers would be happy to split but two win both, and convincingly, I'm stunned.
As for the Yankees and Twins, I'm not surprised that New York took two games in Minnesota. The Yanks simply have the Twins number. I don't know what the Twins mindset is. I'm sure they are talking about how confident they still are. But seriously, deep down inside how can they think they can beat the Yankees?
The Yanks will try to close it out tonight in the Bronx.
All told, it's been an interesting post-season so far.
Starting in the National League, the Reds coughed up a golden opportunity to even their series with the Phillies. Up 4-0, Cincinnati's usually golden defense let them down as the Phils rallied to win yesterday 7-4. If you commit 4 errors, as the Reds did, you don't deserve to win.
As for game one, Roy Halladay's no-hitter was simply amazing. The guy is a machine.
So, the Reds down 2-0 in the best of 5 series are heading home. Is it over for the Reds? Well, it doesn't look good does it?
The Braves picked up an improbable win in Game 2 at San Fran. The Giants had a 3-0 lead and let it slip away.
After Tim Lincecum's 2-hit, 14 punchout game in the opener, the Giants have to be kicking themselves for allowing the Braves to mount a late comeback and win 5-4 in 11-innings on a blast into McCovey cove by Rick Ankiel.
The thing that really amazed me about this game took place in the bottom of the 10th. With the game tied at 4, the Giants had the bases loaded with one out. Buster Posey hit a grounder to Troy Glaus at third. I would have thrown home to get the force out. When Glaus went to second, I thought, "What is he doing?" Omar Infante made a nice turn at second and they got Posey easily at first.
So the Braves tie the series heading back to Atlanta where they had the best home record in baseball. Plus, Tim Hudson will go in Game 3 for the Braves against Jonathan Sanchez. Advantage Atlanta.
In the American League, the Rays bats were silent the first two games, scoring just 1 run total. The Rangers simply dominated the Rays at the Trop. Surprising? Yes, absolutely. I figured the Rangers would be happy to split but two win both, and convincingly, I'm stunned.
As for the Yankees and Twins, I'm not surprised that New York took two games in Minnesota. The Yanks simply have the Twins number. I don't know what the Twins mindset is. I'm sure they are talking about how confident they still are. But seriously, deep down inside how can they think they can beat the Yankees?
The Yanks will try to close it out tonight in the Bronx.
All told, it's been an interesting post-season so far.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Ranking The Playoff Managers
Here is my ranking of the managers in the post-season. This is not scientific by any means. But the way I determined the rankings is this way; If I were an owner of a team, and these were the eight candidates to manage my team, which one would I pick.
Here goes:
8: Ron Washington, Texas.
7: Ron Gardenhire, Minnesota
6: Charlie Manuel, Philadelphia
5: Dusty Baker, Cincinnati
4: Bruce Bochy, San Francisco
3: Bobby Cox, Atlanta
2: Joe Girardi, NYY
1: Joe Madden, Tampa Bay
I like Madden for several reasons. I think he manages his pitching staff to perfection, he can play small ball or he can outslug you and he's turned around the Rays tradition and history of losing into winning. Plus, he doesn't manage by the book. He's innovative and good with a quote too. If you can take the Rays to the post-season twice in three years, you are not only a good manager, you are elite.
Here goes:
8: Ron Washington, Texas.
7: Ron Gardenhire, Minnesota
6: Charlie Manuel, Philadelphia
5: Dusty Baker, Cincinnati
4: Bruce Bochy, San Francisco
3: Bobby Cox, Atlanta
2: Joe Girardi, NYY
1: Joe Madden, Tampa Bay
I like Madden for several reasons. I think he manages his pitching staff to perfection, he can play small ball or he can outslug you and he's turned around the Rays tradition and history of losing into winning. Plus, he doesn't manage by the book. He's innovative and good with a quote too. If you can take the Rays to the post-season twice in three years, you are not only a good manager, you are elite.
Axed
Three managers and a general manager were axed yesterday. They were axed not to come back.
Ken Macha of the Brewers was let go, John Russell of the Pirates was sent packing and the Mets rid themselves of the clown show known as Jerry Manuel (mismanager) and Omar Minaya (General Mismanager).
The only one I have a problem with is Russell. The Pirates front office doesn't want to win, they don't give a manager the ammunition to win and yet they make the manager the scapegoat. I want to know why the General Manager, Neal Huntington doesn't get whacked? He's the one who gets the players for the manager, right? But he's bulletproof yet Russell gets cut loose.
Actually, I'm glad Russell was let go. It was inhumane to let him continue to manage that crap show. He had no chance. I consider what the Pirates did to be a mercy firing.
Until ownership changes and Bob Nuttig sells the team, the Pirates losing ways will continue. This season's 105-loss disaster was their 18th consecutive losing season. That streak will go on for the foreseeable future. Sad.
As for Macha, Manuel and Minaya, they all deserved to go.
If the Brewers were smart, they would hire Willie Randolph as their new manager. Randolph has been the bench coach in Milwaukee. He coaches benches. "Stay strong, don't break, be careful when Prince Fielder sits on you..."
Ken Macha of the Brewers was let go, John Russell of the Pirates was sent packing and the Mets rid themselves of the clown show known as Jerry Manuel (mismanager) and Omar Minaya (General Mismanager).
The only one I have a problem with is Russell. The Pirates front office doesn't want to win, they don't give a manager the ammunition to win and yet they make the manager the scapegoat. I want to know why the General Manager, Neal Huntington doesn't get whacked? He's the one who gets the players for the manager, right? But he's bulletproof yet Russell gets cut loose.
Actually, I'm glad Russell was let go. It was inhumane to let him continue to manage that crap show. He had no chance. I consider what the Pirates did to be a mercy firing.
Until ownership changes and Bob Nuttig sells the team, the Pirates losing ways will continue. This season's 105-loss disaster was their 18th consecutive losing season. That streak will go on for the foreseeable future. Sad.
As for Macha, Manuel and Minaya, they all deserved to go.
If the Brewers were smart, they would hire Willie Randolph as their new manager. Randolph has been the bench coach in Milwaukee. He coaches benches. "Stay strong, don't break, be careful when Prince Fielder sits on you..."
Monday, October 4, 2010
Jeet-O-Meter #6
This will be the last Jeet-O-Meter post until next April when Jeter sets aim at 3,000 hits.
Yesterday at Fenway, in the final regular season tilt, the Bostons got past the Yankees 8-4. Jeter went 2-5 to finish the year at a very un-Jeter-like .270.
His two knocks gave him 179 for the season and 2,926 for his career, just 74 hits short of 3-grand.
Yesterday at Fenway, in the final regular season tilt, the Bostons got past the Yankees 8-4. Jeter went 2-5 to finish the year at a very un-Jeter-like .270.
His two knocks gave him 179 for the season and 2,926 for his career, just 74 hits short of 3-grand.
Award Winners
While the post-season awards won't be handed out for a while, here are my votes for the top awards. And no, I don't get a real vote.
National League:
Manager of the Year: Dusty Baker
Rookie of the Year: Buster Posey
Cy Young: Roy Halladay
MVP: Joey Votto
American League:
Manager of the Year: Ron Gardenhire
Rookie of the Year: Neftali Feliz
Cy Young: CC Sabathia
MVP: Robinson Cano
National League:
Manager of the Year: Dusty Baker
Rookie of the Year: Buster Posey
Cy Young: Roy Halladay
MVP: Joey Votto
American League:
Manager of the Year: Ron Gardenhire
Rookie of the Year: Neftali Feliz
Cy Young: CC Sabathia
MVP: Robinson Cano
Playoff Predictions
National League:
Reds upset the Phillies in 5-Games. Makes no sense I know but I have a feeling about Cincinnati beating the Phils.
Giants will take out the Braves in 4-games. Better pitching for San Fran.
American League:
Yankees over the Twins in 4-Games.
Rangers over the Rays in 5-games. I like Cliff Lee to win two games in the series. He's money. All Texas would need then is a win from someone else.
The playoffs are a huge crapshoot, especially the first round which is only 5-games. If you lose that first game you are really up against it.
I wouldn't wager any money on my picks by the way. I throw that disclaimer in because I would feel guilty if you bet heavily on my selections and lost. Well, actually, I wouldn't feel guilty.
Reds upset the Phillies in 5-Games. Makes no sense I know but I have a feeling about Cincinnati beating the Phils.
Giants will take out the Braves in 4-games. Better pitching for San Fran.
American League:
Yankees over the Twins in 4-Games.
Rangers over the Rays in 5-games. I like Cliff Lee to win two games in the series. He's money. All Texas would need then is a win from someone else.
The playoffs are a huge crapshoot, especially the first round which is only 5-games. If you lose that first game you are really up against it.
I wouldn't wager any money on my picks by the way. I throw that disclaimer in because I would feel guilty if you bet heavily on my selections and lost. Well, actually, I wouldn't feel guilty.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Jeet-O-Meter #5
Two hits for Derek Jeter today in the first game of a doubleheader at Fenway. That gives him a total of 2,924 hits, just 76 shy of 3,000.
He didn't play in the second game. Gots to keep him fresh for the post-season, where he will add to his total of 175 hits.
He didn't play in the second game. Gots to keep him fresh for the post-season, where he will add to his total of 175 hits.
One Stinkin' Run
All that was left for the Rockies to play for was this afternoon at St. Louis, a chance for Ubaldo Jimenez to win his 20th game.
Ubaldo did his part, tossing 8 scoreless innings, allowing just 3 hits while striking out 10.
The Cardinals won in the 11th, 1-0 as the always disappointing Franklin Morales gave it up. Of course he walked the first two guys he faced. The guy can't throw a strike in a pressure situation to save his life. He's atrocious. But he throws 95 and he's lefty. That makes him extra-atrocious. Just brutal and I can't stand watching him cough up games time and time again.
In the top of the 8th, the Rockies had a golden chance to get Ubaldo just one lousy, stinking run. Fowler on 3rd, one out, and Ian Stewart struck out, completely over-matched, swinging at curve balls in the dirt. He looked like a junior high hitter who has never seen a curve ball before. For a guy who was this super prospect, a guy labeled as a can't miss All Star, Stewart is a very pedestrian hitter at best. I'm being kind. He's awful too. The hole in his swing is like the grand freaking canyon.
So Ubaldo Jimenez can thank his teammates for absolutely nothing. The guy was 15-1 on July 8th and ends up with 19 wins. He had crappy run support and they can't get it done in his three starts after he won his 19th game.
Very sad and astonishing that the Rockies couldn't help him get to 20. Also astonishing is how this team has lost 7 in a row and 12 of 13. They are either very hot or very crappy. Has this team quit down the stretch? You decide but the numbers don't lie do they.
Ubaldo did his part, tossing 8 scoreless innings, allowing just 3 hits while striking out 10.
The Cardinals won in the 11th, 1-0 as the always disappointing Franklin Morales gave it up. Of course he walked the first two guys he faced. The guy can't throw a strike in a pressure situation to save his life. He's atrocious. But he throws 95 and he's lefty. That makes him extra-atrocious. Just brutal and I can't stand watching him cough up games time and time again.
In the top of the 8th, the Rockies had a golden chance to get Ubaldo just one lousy, stinking run. Fowler on 3rd, one out, and Ian Stewart struck out, completely over-matched, swinging at curve balls in the dirt. He looked like a junior high hitter who has never seen a curve ball before. For a guy who was this super prospect, a guy labeled as a can't miss All Star, Stewart is a very pedestrian hitter at best. I'm being kind. He's awful too. The hole in his swing is like the grand freaking canyon.
So Ubaldo Jimenez can thank his teammates for absolutely nothing. The guy was 15-1 on July 8th and ends up with 19 wins. He had crappy run support and they can't get it done in his three starts after he won his 19th game.
Very sad and astonishing that the Rockies couldn't help him get to 20. Also astonishing is how this team has lost 7 in a row and 12 of 13. They are either very hot or very crappy. Has this team quit down the stretch? You decide but the numbers don't lie do they.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Really Bad
The Pirates defeated the Marlins tonight 5-1. In Florida. It marks the Bucs 17th road win of the season. On October 1st.
Pittsburgh has played 6-month's of baseball and have just 17 road wins? How can that be? I know the Pirates are horrendous but 17 away wins? Yikes, that's really, really, really bad. I didn't realize they were so terrible in opposing yards.
The Pirates are 17-62 away from PNC Park, a whopping 45-games under .500 on the road. I would do some research on where they stand among worst road teams of all-time but I'm too tired to do so now.
At 57-103, Pittsburgh finished with a somewhat respectable 40-41 record at home this season. I thought the Rockies were a bad ballclub. Compared to Pittsburgh on the road the Rockies are road warriors.
Pittsburgh has played 6-month's of baseball and have just 17 road wins? How can that be? I know the Pirates are horrendous but 17 away wins? Yikes, that's really, really, really bad. I didn't realize they were so terrible in opposing yards.
The Pirates are 17-62 away from PNC Park, a whopping 45-games under .500 on the road. I would do some research on where they stand among worst road teams of all-time but I'm too tired to do so now.
At 57-103, Pittsburgh finished with a somewhat respectable 40-41 record at home this season. I thought the Rockies were a bad ballclub. Compared to Pittsburgh on the road the Rockies are road warriors.
A Colossal Collapse
The Rockies lost again tonight, 3-0 to the Cardinals.
The were so hot in September and were on the verge of another post-season appearance...and then? And then the wheels fell off? What happened? I don't know. I can't explain it. They went from Marissa Miller hot to Rosie O'Donnell cold just like that.
The Rockies, although clinching a winning record, have lost 6 in a row and have dropped 11 of 12. Amazing.
Tomorrow, Ubaldo Jimenez goes for his 20th win. Hopefully the Rockies can sack up and get at least one more win this year, a win for Ubaldo. That would help lessen the crappy taste in their mouth's of the season's final two weeks.
The were so hot in September and were on the verge of another post-season appearance...and then? And then the wheels fell off? What happened? I don't know. I can't explain it. They went from Marissa Miller hot to Rosie O'Donnell cold just like that.
The Rockies, although clinching a winning record, have lost 6 in a row and have dropped 11 of 12. Amazing.
Tomorrow, Ubaldo Jimenez goes for his 20th win. Hopefully the Rockies can sack up and get at least one more win this year, a win for Ubaldo. That would help lessen the crappy taste in their mouth's of the season's final two weeks.
Torre's Numbers
Here is an interesting tidbit. Interesting to me anyway.
As a player, Joe Torre collected 2,342 hits. Actually, I think he should have been given more Hall of Fame consideration as a player, since he has a lifetime .297 average with 252 homers and 1,185 RBI's. He also won the NL MVP in 1971 when he hit .363 with 230 hits and 137 RBI's. Since he was slower than syrup, he probably didn't get many infield hits among those 230 knocks. He also made 9 All Star teams.
Anyway, right now, Torre has 2,324 managerial wins. It would have been neat if Torre retired with the same number of wins as hits. He'll come close. Of course if he manages again, and I think he will, he'll end up with more wins than hits.
The symmetry of baseball is interesting to me. No more than Stan Musial's hit numbers. The Cardinals great ended his magnificent career with 3,630 hits. Of those hits, 1,815 were hit at home and 1,815 were hit on the road. How's that for symmetry?
As a player, Joe Torre collected 2,342 hits. Actually, I think he should have been given more Hall of Fame consideration as a player, since he has a lifetime .297 average with 252 homers and 1,185 RBI's. He also won the NL MVP in 1971 when he hit .363 with 230 hits and 137 RBI's. Since he was slower than syrup, he probably didn't get many infield hits among those 230 knocks. He also made 9 All Star teams.
Anyway, right now, Torre has 2,324 managerial wins. It would have been neat if Torre retired with the same number of wins as hits. He'll come close. Of course if he manages again, and I think he will, he'll end up with more wins than hits.
The symmetry of baseball is interesting to me. No more than Stan Musial's hit numbers. The Cardinals great ended his magnificent career with 3,630 hits. Of those hits, 1,815 were hit at home and 1,815 were hit on the road. How's that for symmetry?
The Jerry and Omar Show Nearly Over
The Mets are expected to fired manager Jerry Manuel and general manager Omar Minaya after Sunday's finale.
The question: What took so long.
The Mets have clinched a losing season and fans are staying away from Citi Field in droves. This is a team in disarray and heads need to roll.
After Manuel and Minaya are gone, I would also make it known that several players are available, namely Jose Reyes and Jason Bay. Reyes is erratic and Bay is a bad fit.
So, who do the Mets hire as manager? Joe Torre, whose first managerial job was with the Mets in 1977 when he was a player manager? Do they go back to Bobby Valentine? Ryan Sandberg if the Cubs don't hire him? Wally Backman?
Someone else? There is a good chance that the Mets, if they don't hire one of the previously mentioned men that they will completely blow it. I would not be shocked if the Mets went on the cheap and hired a stiff to manage them next season.
The question: What took so long.
The Mets have clinched a losing season and fans are staying away from Citi Field in droves. This is a team in disarray and heads need to roll.
After Manuel and Minaya are gone, I would also make it known that several players are available, namely Jose Reyes and Jason Bay. Reyes is erratic and Bay is a bad fit.
So, who do the Mets hire as manager? Joe Torre, whose first managerial job was with the Mets in 1977 when he was a player manager? Do they go back to Bobby Valentine? Ryan Sandberg if the Cubs don't hire him? Wally Backman?
Someone else? There is a good chance that the Mets, if they don't hire one of the previously mentioned men that they will completely blow it. I would not be shocked if the Mets went on the cheap and hired a stiff to manage them next season.
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