According to my personal calendar, March 1 is the official start of spring. I know most people say its March 20th or 21st or something like that.
I like to keep it simple.
Here is my seasonal calendar...
Spring: March, April, May.
Summer: June, July, August.
Fall: September, October, November.
Winter: December, January, February.
There is it. Very simple and to the point. So I am anxious to say goodbye to February and get spring started...tomorrow.
Then it will really feel like spring training.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Website Alert
With the passing of Duke Snider dominating the baseball news, I thought it might be a good time to tell you about a really good baseball website.
It's www.brooklyndodgermemories.com.
While it is predominantly about the Brooklyns, it isn't just about the Dodgers. It really captures the feel of baseball before the Giants and Dodgers headed west and changed the face of baseball forever. I would highly recommend you check it out.
You're welcome.
It's www.brooklyndodgermemories.com.
While it is predominantly about the Brooklyns, it isn't just about the Dodgers. It really captures the feel of baseball before the Giants and Dodgers headed west and changed the face of baseball forever. I would highly recommend you check it out.
You're welcome.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Goodbye Duke
I just turned on the Angels-Dodgers exhibition game on MLB Network and learned that Brooklyn and LA Dodgers Hall of Famer Duke Snider has passed away at the age of 84.
Kind of ironic that I was tuned into a Dodgers game.
A few weeks ago a former Brooklyn Dodger, Gino Cimoli, passed away and now The Duke. Not too many of the "Boys of Summer" are left, to take the title of Rogers Kahn's classic book.
Soon unfortunately there won't be any former Brooklyn Dodgers alive and that will be sad.
I never met Duke Snider but from all indications he was a quality guy. I read his book, "The Duke of Flatbush" a couple of years ago and it was a good book, one that brings you back to the glory days of baseball in New York City.
In those days you had Mickey Mantle in centerfield for the Yankees, Willie Mays for the Giants and patrolling center in Ebbets Field was The Duke, or as they said in Brooklyn, "Da Dook."
Duke and the other two were immortalized in Terry Cashman's catchy tune, "Talking Baseball" which had the great line, "Willie, Mickey and The Duke."
Sad day in baseball today.
Kind of ironic that I was tuned into a Dodgers game.
A few weeks ago a former Brooklyn Dodger, Gino Cimoli, passed away and now The Duke. Not too many of the "Boys of Summer" are left, to take the title of Rogers Kahn's classic book.
Soon unfortunately there won't be any former Brooklyn Dodgers alive and that will be sad.
I never met Duke Snider but from all indications he was a quality guy. I read his book, "The Duke of Flatbush" a couple of years ago and it was a good book, one that brings you back to the glory days of baseball in New York City.
In those days you had Mickey Mantle in centerfield for the Yankees, Willie Mays for the Giants and patrolling center in Ebbets Field was The Duke, or as they said in Brooklyn, "Da Dook."
Duke and the other two were immortalized in Terry Cashman's catchy tune, "Talking Baseball" which had the great line, "Willie, Mickey and The Duke."
Sad day in baseball today.
Showalter's O's
I've been reading about the new-look Orioles and how they will be much improved under manager Buck Showalter.
That is true, the Baltimores will be better.
What is also true is that they'll still finish in last place in the AL East.
Seriously, who are they going to beat out? The Red Sox? No. The Yankees? No. The Blue Jays or Rays? Not a chance.
Pencil them in for 5th place.
Sorry Buck.
That is true, the Baltimores will be better.
What is also true is that they'll still finish in last place in the AL East.
Seriously, who are they going to beat out? The Red Sox? No. The Yankees? No. The Blue Jays or Rays? Not a chance.
Pencil them in for 5th place.
Sorry Buck.
Fire Him Now!
I've been reading several stories today about Don Mattingly losing his first game as manager of the Dodgers, an 8-3 decision to the Giants.
Is that really headline material?
Fox Sports had the headline, "Better Days Ahead? Mattingly Drops Managerial Debut."
I would just like to say to anyone who thought that Mattingly's Dodgers losing yesterday was even close to being a big deal...
"IT'S THE FIRST FREAKING EXHIBITION GAME!"
Geez.
Is that really headline material?
Fox Sports had the headline, "Better Days Ahead? Mattingly Drops Managerial Debut."
I would just like to say to anyone who thought that Mattingly's Dodgers losing yesterday was even close to being a big deal...
"IT'S THE FIRST FREAKING EXHIBITION GAME!"
Geez.
Apartment Honored?
Jackie Robinson's apartment when he played for Montreal in the International League prior to joining the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947 is being honored. Really.
U-S Diplomats will unveil a plaque at the apartment.
I'm all for honoring Jackie Robinson. What he did for race relations in this country can't be denied or measured. But by honoring a place where he stayed for a summer? I think we are getting carried away.
Why not honor the car dealership where he bought his first car? Why not honor the first elevator he rode in that was open to both whites and blacks? How about honoring the gas station where he frequented during spring training in Vero Beach.
U-S Diplomats will unveil a plaque at the apartment.
I'm all for honoring Jackie Robinson. What he did for race relations in this country can't be denied or measured. But by honoring a place where he stayed for a summer? I think we are getting carried away.
Why not honor the car dealership where he bought his first car? Why not honor the first elevator he rode in that was open to both whites and blacks? How about honoring the gas station where he frequented during spring training in Vero Beach.
Gerut Done
Journeyman outfielder Jody Gerut has retired after a 6-year big league career. He banged out 59 homers, knocked in 226 runs and leaves with a .262 average. His best year turned out to be his rookie season in Cleveland when he blasted 22 homers with 75 RBI's.
Only 33-years old, Gerut said he's fine physically but mentally it isn't there any more. He said he wouldn't "disrespect the game" that he loves and has provided so much for him by hanging on. I respect that.
When I think of Gerut though, one thing stands out. Our former radio producer, Don Pablo Apodaca once showed up to work wearing a Jody Gerut Indians jersey. Really Don?
Outside of the Gerut family and Don Pablo, I'm guessing not many people shelled out their hard earned cash for a Jody Gerut jersey.
Only 33-years old, Gerut said he's fine physically but mentally it isn't there any more. He said he wouldn't "disrespect the game" that he loves and has provided so much for him by hanging on. I respect that.
When I think of Gerut though, one thing stands out. Our former radio producer, Don Pablo Apodaca once showed up to work wearing a Jody Gerut Indians jersey. Really Don?
Outside of the Gerut family and Don Pablo, I'm guessing not many people shelled out their hard earned cash for a Jody Gerut jersey.
Brother Can You Spare A Dime?
The season hasn't already started and the Mets have had to borrow 25-million from Major League Baseball to help make ends meet.
Since Fred Wilpon and his son want to keep the team, the only way they may be able to do so is to start trimming payroll and shipping off high priced talent.
Johan Santana makes 20-mil this year. Coming off shoulder surgery. Who wants him? Carlons Beltran has been injury prone and will make 19-mil this year and will be a free agent after the season. No one is taking that contract. Oliver Perez, a complete joke and waste product is making 12-million this year. The only idiots who would take that contract on already have, the Mets!
Jose Reyes and Jason Bay might would have some interest from other teams. But the guy most marketable for the Mets is David Wright, the face of the franchise. He'll make 14-million this year and 31-mil over the following two seasons. Would they trade Wright to help trim their 136-million dollar payroll? They might have to.
This is getting good. Although in the long run, if it forces the Mets to sell the team that would be a good thing for Mets fans.
Since Fred Wilpon and his son want to keep the team, the only way they may be able to do so is to start trimming payroll and shipping off high priced talent.
Johan Santana makes 20-mil this year. Coming off shoulder surgery. Who wants him? Carlons Beltran has been injury prone and will make 19-mil this year and will be a free agent after the season. No one is taking that contract. Oliver Perez, a complete joke and waste product is making 12-million this year. The only idiots who would take that contract on already have, the Mets!
Jose Reyes and Jason Bay might would have some interest from other teams. But the guy most marketable for the Mets is David Wright, the face of the franchise. He'll make 14-million this year and 31-mil over the following two seasons. Would they trade Wright to help trim their 136-million dollar payroll? They might have to.
This is getting good. Although in the long run, if it forces the Mets to sell the team that would be a good thing for Mets fans.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Bring on the Games
Alright, it was nice when pitchers and catchers reported to spring training camp. It was even nicer when the full squads reported.
But enough is enough.
I want some damn exhibition baseball games on my TV set. I want the games and I want the highlights.
Of course, after a week of meaningless games, I'll be anxious to get the regular season started.
Just like the movie of the same name, "It Happens Every Spring."
Although technically it is still winter. Ugh.
But enough is enough.
I want some damn exhibition baseball games on my TV set. I want the games and I want the highlights.
Of course, after a week of meaningless games, I'll be anxious to get the regular season started.
Just like the movie of the same name, "It Happens Every Spring."
Although technically it is still winter. Ugh.
Good Move By Soria
Royals closer, the vastly underrated Joakim Soria, has the nickname of "The Mexicutioner." Colorful nickname playing off his Mexican heritage.
However, Soria no longer wants the nickname since he feels it has a negative image. In a baseball sense Soria said the nickname is "harmless."
But with all the violence and killings in Mexico he would prefer the nickname be dropped.
I think it's a very good move by Soria.
Will it help stem the problems in Mexico? Probably not but it can't hurt.
However, Soria no longer wants the nickname since he feels it has a negative image. In a baseball sense Soria said the nickname is "harmless."
But with all the violence and killings in Mexico he would prefer the nickname be dropped.
I think it's a very good move by Soria.
Will it help stem the problems in Mexico? Probably not but it can't hurt.
Adam Not Alright
Bad news for the Cardinals. 20-game winner Adam Wainwright is done for the season. He'll undergo Tommy John surgery to rebuild his right elbow.
From a Cardinals standpoint, it's certainly a tough blow but better to have this happen now than later in spring training. It will give St. Louis a chance to find someone to take, or try to take, Wainwright's spot. But guys who win 39 games over the course of two seasons are hard to replace. They don't exactly grow on trees.
As for Wainwright, you have to feel for the guy. He reported to spring in great shape and was ready to go until his elbow blew out. Not fun. However, the positive is that Tommy John surgery is not the career killer it once was. Guys routinely come back from this kind of operation. I don't know how long it will take but I would venture to say that we'll see Wainwright again pitching well. Just not this year. Too bad.
From a Cardinals standpoint, it's certainly a tough blow but better to have this happen now than later in spring training. It will give St. Louis a chance to find someone to take, or try to take, Wainwright's spot. But guys who win 39 games over the course of two seasons are hard to replace. They don't exactly grow on trees.
As for Wainwright, you have to feel for the guy. He reported to spring in great shape and was ready to go until his elbow blew out. Not fun. However, the positive is that Tommy John surgery is not the career killer it once was. Guys routinely come back from this kind of operation. I don't know how long it will take but I would venture to say that we'll see Wainwright again pitching well. Just not this year. Too bad.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Mark Buehrle
White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle recently said that he was, at times, hoping Eagles quarterback Michael Vick would get hurt.
Obviously Buehrle was like most sane people when he was repulsed and disgusted by Vick's involvement in dog fighting.
I'm in Buehrle's corner on this issue. Vick tortured dogs and I won't ever think that's OK. During this past football season, I said on the radio that I hoped Vick would get a career ending injury. I want Vick to go away so I don't have to look at his face again. He disgusts me to no end. Of course when I said that I hoped Vick had a career ending injury my radio sidekicks were critical of me. Vick tortured dogs yet I was the bad guy.
Back to Buehrle. I really respect the guy because he never backtracked from his remarks. He stood by his comments. There was no "I was misquoted" or "My comments were taken out of context" remarks. He found Vick's actions to be deplorable and if he wanted to see Vick get hurt then so be it.
I'm a Mark Buehrle fan and I hope he has a great season this year.
Obviously Buehrle was like most sane people when he was repulsed and disgusted by Vick's involvement in dog fighting.
I'm in Buehrle's corner on this issue. Vick tortured dogs and I won't ever think that's OK. During this past football season, I said on the radio that I hoped Vick would get a career ending injury. I want Vick to go away so I don't have to look at his face again. He disgusts me to no end. Of course when I said that I hoped Vick had a career ending injury my radio sidekicks were critical of me. Vick tortured dogs yet I was the bad guy.
Back to Buehrle. I really respect the guy because he never backtracked from his remarks. He stood by his comments. There was no "I was misquoted" or "My comments were taken out of context" remarks. He found Vick's actions to be deplorable and if he wanted to see Vick get hurt then so be it.
I'm a Mark Buehrle fan and I hope he has a great season this year.
The Albert Circus
Albert Pujols arrived at spring training today, a day after his deadline to negotiate a new contract.
Pujols said to the media today that he wants to "remain a Cardinal forever." He also said where he ends up is "out of his control."
What? Out of his control? Unless he has someone else control his heart and brain it's not out of his control.
If he wants to be a Cardinal forever, then sign the contract that the Cardinals offered him. Once you are making over 20-million, do you really want to leave the team you profess to love for more somewhere else? How much do you need to be happy? He's already made 89-million in his career.
Obviously the Cardinals are going to pay the guy a fortune. But if he is looking for Alex Rodriguez money (30-million plus) then count the Cardinals out. They can't afford that. Not many teams can.
Suppose the Cardinals do give Pujols 30-million a year for 10-years. That would be great for Albert but not for the Cardinals. What good does it do St. Louis to have that much tied up in payroll on one guy when they'll have to surround him with cheaper talent? Don't forget all the money they have to pay Matt Holliday (17-mill for the next 6 seasons). So if Albert gets what he wants I would suspect it will hurt the team in the long run.
Here's something not many people are talking about. Pujols is 31. What if his best years are behind him? Suppose he has another two or three typical seasons but then, in his mid-30's starts to slow down. Do you want to pay a guy 30-million when he might turn into an average player at 36 or 37? Look at Todd Helton with the Rockies. He's being paid a ton but is now a broken down, below average player. The Cardinals have to think about that. Pujols probably won't be the same player 7-years from now as he is now.
If I was Pujols, I would sit down with the Cardinals brass. I would tell them to make me their absolute best offer. Then I would sign the contract and then tell my agent to take a hike.
I guess we'll see eventually how serious Pujols is about playing his entire career for the Cardinals. Or, if he's all about the money. Nothing wrong about that either.
Pujols said to the media today that he wants to "remain a Cardinal forever." He also said where he ends up is "out of his control."
What? Out of his control? Unless he has someone else control his heart and brain it's not out of his control.
If he wants to be a Cardinal forever, then sign the contract that the Cardinals offered him. Once you are making over 20-million, do you really want to leave the team you profess to love for more somewhere else? How much do you need to be happy? He's already made 89-million in his career.
Obviously the Cardinals are going to pay the guy a fortune. But if he is looking for Alex Rodriguez money (30-million plus) then count the Cardinals out. They can't afford that. Not many teams can.
Suppose the Cardinals do give Pujols 30-million a year for 10-years. That would be great for Albert but not for the Cardinals. What good does it do St. Louis to have that much tied up in payroll on one guy when they'll have to surround him with cheaper talent? Don't forget all the money they have to pay Matt Holliday (17-mill for the next 6 seasons). So if Albert gets what he wants I would suspect it will hurt the team in the long run.
Here's something not many people are talking about. Pujols is 31. What if his best years are behind him? Suppose he has another two or three typical seasons but then, in his mid-30's starts to slow down. Do you want to pay a guy 30-million when he might turn into an average player at 36 or 37? Look at Todd Helton with the Rockies. He's being paid a ton but is now a broken down, below average player. The Cardinals have to think about that. Pujols probably won't be the same player 7-years from now as he is now.
If I was Pujols, I would sit down with the Cardinals brass. I would tell them to make me their absolute best offer. Then I would sign the contract and then tell my agent to take a hike.
I guess we'll see eventually how serious Pujols is about playing his entire career for the Cardinals. Or, if he's all about the money. Nothing wrong about that either.
The Unlikeable Sheffield
Gary Sheffield is officially done with baseball. He didn't play last year and said there was no rush to announce his retirement. Translation: No team wanted him last year.
Talented? Extremely. Sheffield was a feared slugger with incredible bat speed and a penchant for knocking in runs.
He was also an irritable, angry, hostile guy who bounced from team to team for a reason. He was, in many cases, a pain in the ass and more trouble than he was worth. When he accused Joe Torre of all people of racism, I lost whatever respect I had for the guy. It wasn't the only time Sheffield used the race card.
He played for, in order, the Brewers, Padres, Marlins (where he was on the 1997 World Series team), Dodgers, Braves, Yankees, Tigers and Mets.
Are his stats Hall of Fame worthy? Absolutely. He belted 509 homers with 1,676 RBI's while batting .292. He accumulated 2,689 hits.
Will he get into the Hall? I think so. But there are the steroid rumors and accusations. His named turned up on the Mitchell report.
He seems to slip under the radar as far as steroids go. Bonds, McGwire, Sosa, Palmiero and Clemens seem to dominate the steroid talk. But make no mistake about it, steroids will certainly play a role in his Hall of Fame candidacy.
When great players retire, many times I feel a twinge of sadness, no matter what team they played for. I remember the memories and know that I won't be able to admire their talent again.
That is not how I feel about Sheffield. I found him to be a class A jerk and I won't miss him. Not at all.
Talented? Extremely. Sheffield was a feared slugger with incredible bat speed and a penchant for knocking in runs.
He was also an irritable, angry, hostile guy who bounced from team to team for a reason. He was, in many cases, a pain in the ass and more trouble than he was worth. When he accused Joe Torre of all people of racism, I lost whatever respect I had for the guy. It wasn't the only time Sheffield used the race card.
He played for, in order, the Brewers, Padres, Marlins (where he was on the 1997 World Series team), Dodgers, Braves, Yankees, Tigers and Mets.
Are his stats Hall of Fame worthy? Absolutely. He belted 509 homers with 1,676 RBI's while batting .292. He accumulated 2,689 hits.
Will he get into the Hall? I think so. But there are the steroid rumors and accusations. His named turned up on the Mitchell report.
He seems to slip under the radar as far as steroids go. Bonds, McGwire, Sosa, Palmiero and Clemens seem to dominate the steroid talk. But make no mistake about it, steroids will certainly play a role in his Hall of Fame candidacy.
When great players retire, many times I feel a twinge of sadness, no matter what team they played for. I remember the memories and know that I won't be able to admire their talent again.
That is not how I feel about Sheffield. I found him to be a class A jerk and I won't miss him. Not at all.
Drunken Tiger
Miguel Cabrera has had alcohol problems in the past. Now he's got alcohol problems in the present.
The Tigers first baseman was arrested in Florida, charged suspicion of drunk driving. Cabrera's car was on the side of the road with a smoking engine. Officers responding found Cabrera who was slurring his speech and reeking of alcohol. He even took a swig from a bottle of scotch in front of the officers.
Cabrera also dropped the "do you know who I am?" card.
I know who Cabrera is. He's one of the best players in baseball who is on the verge of pissing it all away at the age of 28.
I don't consider this a sad story. I consider it a pathetic story and I have zero sympathy for Cabrera. I'm not one for feeling sorry for self-destructive people. I'm just glad he didn't kill someone driving in that condition.
The guy is a bum and despite all the gaudy stats, he's a bad teammate.
The Tigers have improved their ball club this winter and feel they have the pieces to contend. Now this. Selfish is a word that comes to mind. Let's remember the final week of the 2009 season when the Tigers were battling the Twins and Cabrera got into a drunken fight with his wife before Detroit lost a crucial game. He let the team down then and he's letting the team down now. That is my definition of a bad teammate.
The Tigers are on the hook for more than $100 million dollars with Cabrera. Obviously they would like to see him in spring training soon and in the Opening Day lineup.
However, it seems like the guy needs some time away from the game. A long time in rehab might help him with his alcohol and psychological problems.
I have a feeling that if the Tigers and baseball treat him with kid gloves again then he will let them down again. It could be worse next time.
All I know is I don't want to be on the road when Cabrera decides to get behind the wheel of a car after another bender.
The Tigers first baseman was arrested in Florida, charged suspicion of drunk driving. Cabrera's car was on the side of the road with a smoking engine. Officers responding found Cabrera who was slurring his speech and reeking of alcohol. He even took a swig from a bottle of scotch in front of the officers.
Cabrera also dropped the "do you know who I am?" card.
I know who Cabrera is. He's one of the best players in baseball who is on the verge of pissing it all away at the age of 28.
I don't consider this a sad story. I consider it a pathetic story and I have zero sympathy for Cabrera. I'm not one for feeling sorry for self-destructive people. I'm just glad he didn't kill someone driving in that condition.
The guy is a bum and despite all the gaudy stats, he's a bad teammate.
The Tigers have improved their ball club this winter and feel they have the pieces to contend. Now this. Selfish is a word that comes to mind. Let's remember the final week of the 2009 season when the Tigers were battling the Twins and Cabrera got into a drunken fight with his wife before Detroit lost a crucial game. He let the team down then and he's letting the team down now. That is my definition of a bad teammate.
The Tigers are on the hook for more than $100 million dollars with Cabrera. Obviously they would like to see him in spring training soon and in the Opening Day lineup.
However, it seems like the guy needs some time away from the game. A long time in rehab might help him with his alcohol and psychological problems.
I have a feeling that if the Tigers and baseball treat him with kid gloves again then he will let them down again. It could be worse next time.
All I know is I don't want to be on the road when Cabrera decides to get behind the wheel of a car after another bender.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Tony to Connie
Tony Malinosky, the oldest living ex-Major League player passed away on February 8th. I talked about it briefly on the radio show but I forgot to post something on here.
Malinosky was 101 years of age and played in 39 games for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1937.
According to reports he remained a Dodgers fan the rest of his life. He lived in California and the Dodgers had a celebration for him on the occasion of his 100th birthday.
Tony M. had a good run. A real good run.
The new holder of the "Oldest ex-Major Leaguer" title is Connie Marrero who will be 100 on April 25th.
He pitched for the Washington Senators from 1950-54. Two things stand out about Marrero to me. First of all, he was a 39-year old rookie in 1950. Secondly, the Cuban was only 5'5, 160 pounds.
He racked up a 39-40 record with an ERA of 3.67. Not bad for a guy who was likely past his pitching prime and who was with a pretty bad Senators club.
So rest in peace Tony Malinosky and long live Connie Marrero.
Malinosky was 101 years of age and played in 39 games for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1937.
According to reports he remained a Dodgers fan the rest of his life. He lived in California and the Dodgers had a celebration for him on the occasion of his 100th birthday.
Tony M. had a good run. A real good run.
The new holder of the "Oldest ex-Major Leaguer" title is Connie Marrero who will be 100 on April 25th.
He pitched for the Washington Senators from 1950-54. Two things stand out about Marrero to me. First of all, he was a 39-year old rookie in 1950. Secondly, the Cuban was only 5'5, 160 pounds.
He racked up a 39-40 record with an ERA of 3.67. Not bad for a guy who was likely past his pitching prime and who was with a pretty bad Senators club.
So rest in peace Tony Malinosky and long live Connie Marrero.
Marlins Stadium
The Marlins have installed the first seat in their new ballpark, on the site of the former Orange Bowl.
Now all they need to do is install another 100 or so seats and they'll be ready for Opening Day 2012.
Now all they need to do is install another 100 or so seats and they'll be ready for Opening Day 2012.
A.P. To the Cubs?
Spoke to Kevin Wheeler on the show Sunday night and he told me that Cardinals fans are having a nightmare of epic proportions. That nightmare is seeing Albert Pujols in a Cubs uniform next season.
Come on, never happen, right?
Well...
Wheeler discussed several Cubs players coming off the payroll after this season and in the coming seasons. Big contracts like Carlos Pena and Alfonso Soriano. There may very well be major cash in the Cubs coffers after this season.
Pujols wants a deal done by tomorrow and if not, then he will play out the season without negotiations and without distraction.
However, if in April the Cardinals offer Pujols the 10-years he is seeking at the money he wants, why wouldn't he sign right then and there?
The "I won't negotiate during the season" card is probably just a ploy. That's why Albert has an agent, so he doesn't have to negotiate during the season.
While I wouldn't mind in the least Pujols playing for the Cubs and seeing what kind of sick damage he would do at Wrigley Field, I do understand the concern of Cardinals fans. Albert Pujols a Cub? Just as Red Sox fans couldn't fathom Babe Ruth as a Yankee.
Crazier things have happened. Which by the way is one of my least favorite cliches. Sorry about that.
Come on, never happen, right?
Well...
Wheeler discussed several Cubs players coming off the payroll after this season and in the coming seasons. Big contracts like Carlos Pena and Alfonso Soriano. There may very well be major cash in the Cubs coffers after this season.
Pujols wants a deal done by tomorrow and if not, then he will play out the season without negotiations and without distraction.
However, if in April the Cardinals offer Pujols the 10-years he is seeking at the money he wants, why wouldn't he sign right then and there?
The "I won't negotiate during the season" card is probably just a ploy. That's why Albert has an agent, so he doesn't have to negotiate during the season.
While I wouldn't mind in the least Pujols playing for the Cubs and seeing what kind of sick damage he would do at Wrigley Field, I do understand the concern of Cardinals fans. Albert Pujols a Cub? Just as Red Sox fans couldn't fathom Babe Ruth as a Yankee.
Crazier things have happened. Which by the way is one of my least favorite cliches. Sorry about that.
Pitchers and Catchers
Pitchers and catchers reported to spring training yesterday and today in Arizona and Florida.
The Rockies first workouts are today but they'll be without lefty Jorge de la Rosa who is stuck in Mexico with visa problems. Let that be a lesson to all big leaguers...pay those credit card bills.
Glad baseball is back even if its just the batteries.
The Rockies first workouts are today but they'll be without lefty Jorge de la Rosa who is stuck in Mexico with visa problems. Let that be a lesson to all big leaguers...pay those credit card bills.
Glad baseball is back even if its just the batteries.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Sad Day In The Fam-A-Lee
The last World Series the Pirates won was in 1979 and the way things are going they may never win another title.
The manager of that fun, exiting team led by Pops Stargell, was Chuck Tanner. The long-time big league skipper passed away today in New Castle, Pennsylvania, the town he was born in 81 years ago.
Tanner, who played in the majors with the Braves (Milwaukee), Cubs, Indians and Angels hit .261 over the course of 8 seasons with 21 homers. One of those home runs came during his first at-bat in the big leagues with the Braves. First pitch, home run off Gerry Staley of the Reds in 1955. Nice start to a career.
But he'll always be remembered as the manager of the "We Are Family" Bucs in 1979.
I remember that series well. I was a senior in high school and had a $5 bet with Tommy Carbone on the series. I had the Orioles and when the Baltimores went up 3-1 in the series, I told Tommy he might as well pay me now. Well, a few days later, when the Pirates took the series in Game 7 (Stargell the key blow, a 2-run homer off Scotty McGregor in the 6th inning. That gave Pittsburgh a 2-1 lead and they went on to win 4-1) I had to eat a crap sandwich and give Tommy 5-bucks. That was a lot of money to a high school kid in those days. Shoot, it's still a lot of money to me. I don't like to lose $5 anytime.
A few years later, when I was doing my radio internship for KQV radio in Pittsburgh in 1984, I had to cover the Pirates and frequently was in Chuck Tanner's office after games getting sound bites.
When the Pirates played at Shea Stadium that summer, I took a trip back to New York and got a media credential for the three game series. Prior to batting practice before one of the games, (I think it was the second game) I was walking in the visiting dugout, just looking around and thinking it was pretty neat to be there. Sitting in the dugout, by himself was Chuck Tanner. He recognized me and patted the padded bench next to him, inviting to me to take a seat. I've had a bunch of managers tell me to take a seat, but this was the first big league manager to tell me so. I sat down and we talked for about 20-minutes. He mostly asked me questions and the fact he took an interest in some radio intern made a big impression.
I haven't heard anyone say anything bad about Chuck Tanner and for good reason. He was a genuinely nice guy and a very good manager. And he hit a home run on the first pitch he saw in the Major Leagues. That is so cool.
Baseball lost a great one today. Unfortunately, too many of the 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates have passed away. Willie Stargell, Bill Robinson, Jim Bibby, Dock Ellis and "The Hammer" John Milner. Now Chuck Tanner. RIP Skip.
The manager of that fun, exiting team led by Pops Stargell, was Chuck Tanner. The long-time big league skipper passed away today in New Castle, Pennsylvania, the town he was born in 81 years ago.
Tanner, who played in the majors with the Braves (Milwaukee), Cubs, Indians and Angels hit .261 over the course of 8 seasons with 21 homers. One of those home runs came during his first at-bat in the big leagues with the Braves. First pitch, home run off Gerry Staley of the Reds in 1955. Nice start to a career.
But he'll always be remembered as the manager of the "We Are Family" Bucs in 1979.
I remember that series well. I was a senior in high school and had a $5 bet with Tommy Carbone on the series. I had the Orioles and when the Baltimores went up 3-1 in the series, I told Tommy he might as well pay me now. Well, a few days later, when the Pirates took the series in Game 7 (Stargell the key blow, a 2-run homer off Scotty McGregor in the 6th inning. That gave Pittsburgh a 2-1 lead and they went on to win 4-1) I had to eat a crap sandwich and give Tommy 5-bucks. That was a lot of money to a high school kid in those days. Shoot, it's still a lot of money to me. I don't like to lose $5 anytime.
A few years later, when I was doing my radio internship for KQV radio in Pittsburgh in 1984, I had to cover the Pirates and frequently was in Chuck Tanner's office after games getting sound bites.
When the Pirates played at Shea Stadium that summer, I took a trip back to New York and got a media credential for the three game series. Prior to batting practice before one of the games, (I think it was the second game) I was walking in the visiting dugout, just looking around and thinking it was pretty neat to be there. Sitting in the dugout, by himself was Chuck Tanner. He recognized me and patted the padded bench next to him, inviting to me to take a seat. I've had a bunch of managers tell me to take a seat, but this was the first big league manager to tell me so. I sat down and we talked for about 20-minutes. He mostly asked me questions and the fact he took an interest in some radio intern made a big impression.
I haven't heard anyone say anything bad about Chuck Tanner and for good reason. He was a genuinely nice guy and a very good manager. And he hit a home run on the first pitch he saw in the Major Leagues. That is so cool.
Baseball lost a great one today. Unfortunately, too many of the 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates have passed away. Willie Stargell, Bill Robinson, Jim Bibby, Dock Ellis and "The Hammer" John Milner. Now Chuck Tanner. RIP Skip.
Monday, February 7, 2011
The Brooklyns
The Dodgers will wear throwback Brooklyn Dodgers uniforms for 6 midweek home games this year. This to honor their rich heritage and to sell some Brooklyn jerseys and caps of course. Nothing is done without money involved.
While this is all fine and good, the Dodgers should actually wear their throwback Brooklyn uniforms when they play the Mets in New York. That would be very interesting to see. Especially if they took a team picture in front of Citi Field which was designed to look similar to the entrance and exterior of Ebbets Field.
I wonder how an old-time Brooklyn Dodgers fan would feel to see the team that deserted the city and broke millions of hearts back in New York wearing Brooklyn on the front of the jersey and a "B" on the front of the cap? Might be some misty-eyed old timers if they saw that. I imagine it would be very emotional.
While this is all fine and good, the Dodgers should actually wear their throwback Brooklyn uniforms when they play the Mets in New York. That would be very interesting to see. Especially if they took a team picture in front of Citi Field which was designed to look similar to the entrance and exterior of Ebbets Field.
I wonder how an old-time Brooklyn Dodgers fan would feel to see the team that deserted the city and broke millions of hearts back in New York wearing Brooklyn on the front of the jersey and a "B" on the front of the cap? Might be some misty-eyed old timers if they saw that. I imagine it would be very emotional.
Appreciation
The winter weather across the United States has been worse than brutal this year. Everybody is sick and tired of the cold and snow except perhaps the polar bears and penguins at the zoo.
Pitchers and catchers reporting next week will warm our hearts, a bit, when we see the highlights on TV of grown men stretching, soft tossing and jogging on the warning track in the sunshine at various spring training ballparks in Arizona and Florida.
But when we step outside, it will still be cold and snowy and all the highlights in the world won't make us forget winter is still smacking us in the face.
But when baseball finally arrives, when we go to the park and the weather is nice, the hot dogs hot, and the drinks are cold, we will appreciate the fact that we survived another winter and the grand old game is back.
The appreciation I feel doesn't hit me until I go to a day game in warm temperatures. Going to Opening Day when it is usually still cold is nice, but I really thank God when I go to the yard on the first really nice day. Usually in May, sometimes in April. Can we really, truly appreciate great baseball weather if we don't experience the harshness of winter?
To me, nothing is better than going to a ballgame when the temperatures are in the 80's, no chance of rain and the sun shines bright. To me, that's a feeling I never get tired of. Never. I don't care who is playing or which ballpark I'm at, a feeling of content comes over me. Be it a high school game, a minor league game or a big league game, it doesn't matter. I feel another year older, another year wiser and I still feel like a kid when that magical first perfect day for baseball arrives.
Until then, I'll do my best to deal with the crappy weather, the snow, the ice, the wind and the seemingly never-ending horrible forecasts. Because I know I have to be patient. I have no choice. Sooner or later baseball will be back and life will be good. Again.
Pitchers and catchers reporting next week will warm our hearts, a bit, when we see the highlights on TV of grown men stretching, soft tossing and jogging on the warning track in the sunshine at various spring training ballparks in Arizona and Florida.
But when we step outside, it will still be cold and snowy and all the highlights in the world won't make us forget winter is still smacking us in the face.
But when baseball finally arrives, when we go to the park and the weather is nice, the hot dogs hot, and the drinks are cold, we will appreciate the fact that we survived another winter and the grand old game is back.
The appreciation I feel doesn't hit me until I go to a day game in warm temperatures. Going to Opening Day when it is usually still cold is nice, but I really thank God when I go to the yard on the first really nice day. Usually in May, sometimes in April. Can we really, truly appreciate great baseball weather if we don't experience the harshness of winter?
To me, nothing is better than going to a ballgame when the temperatures are in the 80's, no chance of rain and the sun shines bright. To me, that's a feeling I never get tired of. Never. I don't care who is playing or which ballpark I'm at, a feeling of content comes over me. Be it a high school game, a minor league game or a big league game, it doesn't matter. I feel another year older, another year wiser and I still feel like a kid when that magical first perfect day for baseball arrives.
Until then, I'll do my best to deal with the crappy weather, the snow, the ice, the wind and the seemingly never-ending horrible forecasts. Because I know I have to be patient. I have no choice. Sooner or later baseball will be back and life will be good. Again.
My Personal Butler
One more thing on the Super Bowl. It was pleasing to me since I won my bet with Turf member Justin Adams, ole number 81.
Justin had the Steelers, I had the Packers. No points, a straight up bet.
The wager? Not money, something better. Butler service.
We agreed that the first game we are both in the Coors Field press box this spring the loser of the bet would be the other guys personal errand boy.
At Coors Field, the Rockies provide free drinks, peanuts, fruit, cookies and the like for the media.
What this means is for 9-innings, I'll have Justin as my flunky man.
Basically, when I want a drink, Justin has to go fetch it. I want some cookies? Justin, take a little trip to the press room.
I sit next to Ed Henderson in the press box. Hendu wants a drink? "Hey 81, go get something for Ed. He's thirsty."
Thanks to the Packers win yesterday, I'll have a personal butler for a game at Coors Field this season. Justin better wear comfortable shoes and bring an oxygen tank that day!
Justin had the Steelers, I had the Packers. No points, a straight up bet.
The wager? Not money, something better. Butler service.
We agreed that the first game we are both in the Coors Field press box this spring the loser of the bet would be the other guys personal errand boy.
At Coors Field, the Rockies provide free drinks, peanuts, fruit, cookies and the like for the media.
What this means is for 9-innings, I'll have Justin as my flunky man.
Basically, when I want a drink, Justin has to go fetch it. I want some cookies? Justin, take a little trip to the press room.
I sit next to Ed Henderson in the press box. Hendu wants a drink? "Hey 81, go get something for Ed. He's thirsty."
Thanks to the Packers win yesterday, I'll have a personal butler for a game at Coors Field this season. Justin better wear comfortable shoes and bring an oxygen tank that day!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
The Pack
Now that the Packers have won the Super Bowl, 31-25 over the Steelers, we can focus our attention on something that really matters...pitchers and catchers report in eight days.
One final thought on football. In baseball, basketball and hockey, when a team wins a championship, it is recorded forever. For example, the Yankees won their first World Series in 1923. When people talk about the Yankees 27 World Championships, that 1923 championship is, of course, included.
But in football, it seems people only talk about Super Bowl championships. Case in point, the New York Football Giants. They have 7 total championships, but most people only say, "The Giants have won 3 Super Bowls." What about the 4 NFL championships before the Super Bowl existed? To me, the Giants have won 7 NFL titles, three of which were Super Bowl wins. When people talk only of Super Bowl titles, I think they shortchange teams that won championships prior to the Super Bowl.
One final thought on football. In baseball, basketball and hockey, when a team wins a championship, it is recorded forever. For example, the Yankees won their first World Series in 1923. When people talk about the Yankees 27 World Championships, that 1923 championship is, of course, included.
But in football, it seems people only talk about Super Bowl championships. Case in point, the New York Football Giants. They have 7 total championships, but most people only say, "The Giants have won 3 Super Bowls." What about the 4 NFL championships before the Super Bowl existed? To me, the Giants have won 7 NFL titles, three of which were Super Bowl wins. When people talk only of Super Bowl titles, I think they shortchange teams that won championships prior to the Super Bowl.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Break Out Year?
The Rockies signed third baseman Ian Stewart to a 1-year deal worth close to 2.3 million dollars, thus avoiding arbitration.
Stewart will be 26 in April and it's time the onetime "hot prospect" turn his physical tools into massive production.
He should be better than a .245 lifetime hitter and with his power he could (should?) be a 30-homer, 100-RBI guy. Hasn't come close to that although he did belt 25 homers a couple of years ago.
Maybe a new batting coach this season in Carney Lansford, who worked with Stewart years ago at AAA Colorado Springs, will help Stewart realize his potential. If not, then maybe Stewart won't be long for a Rockies uniform.
Personally, I think he's going to put it together this season. It would be nice to see.
Stewart will be 26 in April and it's time the onetime "hot prospect" turn his physical tools into massive production.
He should be better than a .245 lifetime hitter and with his power he could (should?) be a 30-homer, 100-RBI guy. Hasn't come close to that although he did belt 25 homers a couple of years ago.
Maybe a new batting coach this season in Carney Lansford, who worked with Stewart years ago at AAA Colorado Springs, will help Stewart realize his potential. If not, then maybe Stewart won't be long for a Rockies uniform.
Personally, I think he's going to put it together this season. It would be nice to see.
Yankee Doodle Andy
Say goodbye to the "death stare."
Andy Pettitte, the third all-time winningest pitcher in Yankees history is calling it a career today.
Not good for the Yanks who are short on starting pitching.
But good for Pettitte. I'm glad he's going out after an all-star season in 2010 in which he went 11-3 with a 3.24 ERA. Those numbers would have been better had he not had a groin injury much of the second half of the season. I'd rather see Pettitte retire a year too early than a year too late.
Pettitte's 203 wins in pinstripes trail only Whitey Ford (236) and Red Ruffing (231). Overall, Pettitte won 240 games (37 with the Astros) with just 128 losses and an ERA of 3.88.
Don't forget his 19 post-season wins and 5 World Series Championships.
When I think of Pettitte, several memories come to mind.
First off, Opening Day, 1996 when he beat the Royals at Yankee Stadium on a cold and snowy day.
Later that year, he outdueled John Smoltz in Game 5 World Series, a 1-0 Yankees win over the Braves. That gave the Yankees a 3-2 series edge. It was also the last game ever played in old Atlanta Fulton County Stadium.
On the negative side, with the Yanks having a chance to win the 2001 World Series, Pettitte had perhaps the worst game of his career in Game 6. He gave up 6 earned runs to the Diamondbacks in just 2-innings. He was 0-2 in that series. I would bet that of all the games Pettitte threw in his career, that is one game he would like to have back.
Overall though, I'll miss the death stare of Pettitte, peeking over his glove with the brim of his hat pulled down, a look of pure intensity. I'll also remember his pickoff move and how he shut down opposing team's running games.
Is Pettitte a Hall of Famer? I think he'll probably fall short from the voters. His short-time use of HGH, which he admitted, will haunt him but not as much as others. Pettitte came clean about his use when he played for the Astros. He said it was to help him overcome an elbow injury and of all the lame excuses players use to cover up or justify using banned drugs, Pettitte is one of the few guys who sounded genuine and remorseful.
If I had a Hall of Fame vote, I don't think Pettitte would get it. Nonetheless, he was a great pitcher and one day should have his number retired by the Yankees. Too bad he won't be going after a 6th World Series title this year...unless he gets the itch midway through the season and...well, maybe there will be more to the story. I think he's retired for good but you never know.
Andy Pettitte, the third all-time winningest pitcher in Yankees history is calling it a career today.
Not good for the Yanks who are short on starting pitching.
But good for Pettitte. I'm glad he's going out after an all-star season in 2010 in which he went 11-3 with a 3.24 ERA. Those numbers would have been better had he not had a groin injury much of the second half of the season. I'd rather see Pettitte retire a year too early than a year too late.
Pettitte's 203 wins in pinstripes trail only Whitey Ford (236) and Red Ruffing (231). Overall, Pettitte won 240 games (37 with the Astros) with just 128 losses and an ERA of 3.88.
Don't forget his 19 post-season wins and 5 World Series Championships.
When I think of Pettitte, several memories come to mind.
First off, Opening Day, 1996 when he beat the Royals at Yankee Stadium on a cold and snowy day.
Later that year, he outdueled John Smoltz in Game 5 World Series, a 1-0 Yankees win over the Braves. That gave the Yankees a 3-2 series edge. It was also the last game ever played in old Atlanta Fulton County Stadium.
On the negative side, with the Yanks having a chance to win the 2001 World Series, Pettitte had perhaps the worst game of his career in Game 6. He gave up 6 earned runs to the Diamondbacks in just 2-innings. He was 0-2 in that series. I would bet that of all the games Pettitte threw in his career, that is one game he would like to have back.
Overall though, I'll miss the death stare of Pettitte, peeking over his glove with the brim of his hat pulled down, a look of pure intensity. I'll also remember his pickoff move and how he shut down opposing team's running games.
Is Pettitte a Hall of Famer? I think he'll probably fall short from the voters. His short-time use of HGH, which he admitted, will haunt him but not as much as others. Pettitte came clean about his use when he played for the Astros. He said it was to help him overcome an elbow injury and of all the lame excuses players use to cover up or justify using banned drugs, Pettitte is one of the few guys who sounded genuine and remorseful.
If I had a Hall of Fame vote, I don't think Pettitte would get it. Nonetheless, he was a great pitcher and one day should have his number retired by the Yankees. Too bad he won't be going after a 6th World Series title this year...unless he gets the itch midway through the season and...well, maybe there will be more to the story. I think he's retired for good but you never know.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
The Worst Owner Ever?
In my previous post about the Mets, I mentioned that is was funny how bad ownership usually means bad teams.
It got me to thinking, which owner of the modern era was the worst who won a World Series?
Immediately I thought of Marge Schott whose Reds won the 1990 World Series in a sweep over the Athletics.
She was racist, calling her black players "million dollar niggers." She was anti-Semitic with her comments that Adolph Hitler was originally good for Germany. She slandered any group you can think of from gays to Asians.
As for the baseball side of things, she didn't want to hire scouts because all they do is "sit around and watch baseball games." Plus, her stupid dogs were always crapping on the field.
She also "felt cheated" that Opening Day in 1996 was postponed in the first inning when umpire John McSherry died from a massive heart attack. She wanted the game to continue and said, "Nobody feels worse than me." Really? How about McSherry's family? His fellow umpires? All of baseball?
Marge Schott was a horrible human being. A loud mouth, chain-smoking buffoon who inherited her husband's fortune when he died in 1968. Why did he die? He wanted to! Actually, word is he died in the bathtub of his mistress from a heart attack. If I was married to Marge, I'd have a mistress, or several too.
So while there have been terrible owners who have won World Series titles, I'd have to say that Marge Schott was the worst of them all. By far. How the Reds ever won the World Series in 1990 is a mystery to me.
It got me to thinking, which owner of the modern era was the worst who won a World Series?
Immediately I thought of Marge Schott whose Reds won the 1990 World Series in a sweep over the Athletics.
She was racist, calling her black players "million dollar niggers." She was anti-Semitic with her comments that Adolph Hitler was originally good for Germany. She slandered any group you can think of from gays to Asians.
As for the baseball side of things, she didn't want to hire scouts because all they do is "sit around and watch baseball games." Plus, her stupid dogs were always crapping on the field.
She also "felt cheated" that Opening Day in 1996 was postponed in the first inning when umpire John McSherry died from a massive heart attack. She wanted the game to continue and said, "Nobody feels worse than me." Really? How about McSherry's family? His fellow umpires? All of baseball?
Marge Schott was a horrible human being. A loud mouth, chain-smoking buffoon who inherited her husband's fortune when he died in 1968. Why did he die? He wanted to! Actually, word is he died in the bathtub of his mistress from a heart attack. If I was married to Marge, I'd have a mistress, or several too.
So while there have been terrible owners who have won World Series titles, I'd have to say that Marge Schott was the worst of them all. By far. How the Reds ever won the World Series in 1990 is a mystery to me.
The NY Mess
Call them the New York Mess.
Mets owner Fred Wilpon needs cash. He's looking to sell 25% of the team in order to help pay off a trustee who is looking recover funds for victims of Bernard Madoff's Ponzi scheme. A settlement or judgment in a lawsuit filed by the trustee means Wilpon will have to fork over a bunch of money. Reports say that a Mets related fund made close to 50-million in the scheme.
The Mets payroll will be between 140-150 million this season. They've been pretty tight with the purse strings this month and if they get off to a slow start this year, and they will, look for a firesale with Jose Reyes probably being the one commodity that other teams will want. Maybe Jason Bay who is coming off a horrible season that was cut short due to a concussion.
The best that Mets fans can hope for is that Wilpon will finally sell the team. Mets fans shouldn't hold their breath for that to happen. Bad ownership usually means bad teams. Funny how that works out, isn't it?
Mets owner Fred Wilpon needs cash. He's looking to sell 25% of the team in order to help pay off a trustee who is looking recover funds for victims of Bernard Madoff's Ponzi scheme. A settlement or judgment in a lawsuit filed by the trustee means Wilpon will have to fork over a bunch of money. Reports say that a Mets related fund made close to 50-million in the scheme.
The Mets payroll will be between 140-150 million this season. They've been pretty tight with the purse strings this month and if they get off to a slow start this year, and they will, look for a firesale with Jose Reyes probably being the one commodity that other teams will want. Maybe Jason Bay who is coming off a horrible season that was cut short due to a concussion.
The best that Mets fans can hope for is that Wilpon will finally sell the team. Mets fans shouldn't hold their breath for that to happen. Bad ownership usually means bad teams. Funny how that works out, isn't it?
The Worst Month
Well, February is here and in Denver the temperature is a balmy -10 degrees.
February has always been, in my estimation, the worst sports month of all. That is why God made it 28 days. He hates February too.
February isn't as bad as it used to be in a sporting sense. The Super Bowl has creeped into the month. For those who like car racing, the Daytona 500 is this month. Which always baffles me. If it is the marquee race of the year, why do they have it in February? Wouldn't that be like having the World Series in April or the NBA finals in November, which come to think of it, would be a good idea. Get rid of that crap as fast as we can. Every four years the Winter Olympics come around and that's not too bad. Except for the figure skating, specifically the male figure skating.
But the highlight of the sports calendar for me this month is that pitchers and catchers report to spring training. Yes, that trumps the Super Bowl and anything else that February has to offer.
I don't know why but seeing highlights on TV of pitchers throwing, doing PFP (pitchers fielding practice) and jogging on the warning track makes me feel good. The sunshine and warm weather reminds me that spring is just around the corner, once we get past February. Thank goodness it's not a leap year.
Now, time to get some more hot chocolate and look forward to February 14th. Not for Valentines Day, that scam holiday, but for pitchers and catchers. Baseball will soon be back.
February has always been, in my estimation, the worst sports month of all. That is why God made it 28 days. He hates February too.
February isn't as bad as it used to be in a sporting sense. The Super Bowl has creeped into the month. For those who like car racing, the Daytona 500 is this month. Which always baffles me. If it is the marquee race of the year, why do they have it in February? Wouldn't that be like having the World Series in April or the NBA finals in November, which come to think of it, would be a good idea. Get rid of that crap as fast as we can. Every four years the Winter Olympics come around and that's not too bad. Except for the figure skating, specifically the male figure skating.
But the highlight of the sports calendar for me this month is that pitchers and catchers report to spring training. Yes, that trumps the Super Bowl and anything else that February has to offer.
I don't know why but seeing highlights on TV of pitchers throwing, doing PFP (pitchers fielding practice) and jogging on the warning track makes me feel good. The sunshine and warm weather reminds me that spring is just around the corner, once we get past February. Thank goodness it's not a leap year.
Now, time to get some more hot chocolate and look forward to February 14th. Not for Valentines Day, that scam holiday, but for pitchers and catchers. Baseball will soon be back.
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