If you go back the "My Personal Butler" post on February 7th of this year, you can read about my Super Bowl bet with Justin "Applehead" Adams, a.k.a. 81. That was his number when he played football at Colorado for those of you misguided souls who don't listen to our radio show.
Anyway, since I had the Packers over the Steelers, Justin has to be my personal butler/errand boy/flunky/intern/lackey tonight in the Coors Field press box. When I want a drink or some cookies, all I have to do is snap my finger and Justin has to go fetch. I just hope the game goes extra innings. Like 20-innings!
This is going to be fun!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Dodger Dilemma
The more I think about it the more I wonder what right does Ommissioner Bud Selig have in taking away operational control of the Dodgers from Frank McCourt?
It is easily apparent that McCourt is a buffoon and a lousy owner. So what? There are a lot of lousy owners, not only in sports, but in all businesses. Take radio for instance!
Is it a crime to be a bad owner of a baseball team?
While the Dodgers are an historic and tradition-laden franchise, if the owner is running them into the ground, isn't that his problem? Why doesn't Selig rip the Pirates from the greedy paws of their owner Robert Nutting? How come he doesn't go after Mets owner Fred Wilpon?
In sports you will have franchises that are run well and franchises that are run as if a 12-year old were calling the shots.
The Dodgers situation with Frank McCourt and his yappy wife Jaime is embarrassing, salacious, depressing and yes, somewhat comical. Still, what laws has Frank McCourt broken? How is he any worse than some of the other owners out there.
I think McCourt is getting a raw deal. Imagine that. I'm sticking up for Frank McCourt.
Maybe it's Bud Selig who has to go. I'd be in favor of that.
It is easily apparent that McCourt is a buffoon and a lousy owner. So what? There are a lot of lousy owners, not only in sports, but in all businesses. Take radio for instance!
Is it a crime to be a bad owner of a baseball team?
While the Dodgers are an historic and tradition-laden franchise, if the owner is running them into the ground, isn't that his problem? Why doesn't Selig rip the Pirates from the greedy paws of their owner Robert Nutting? How come he doesn't go after Mets owner Fred Wilpon?
In sports you will have franchises that are run well and franchises that are run as if a 12-year old were calling the shots.
The Dodgers situation with Frank McCourt and his yappy wife Jaime is embarrassing, salacious, depressing and yes, somewhat comical. Still, what laws has Frank McCourt broken? How is he any worse than some of the other owners out there.
I think McCourt is getting a raw deal. Imagine that. I'm sticking up for Frank McCourt.
Maybe it's Bud Selig who has to go. I'd be in favor of that.
Supreme Dumbass
Braves pitcher Derek Lowe is 37. The point being is that he's been around. He's no stupid kid. But he is a stupid grown man who should know better than to get popped for DUI as he did last evening in Georgia.
To show he's even dumber than a dustpan, he was allegedly racing another vehicle while driving his Porsche.
That's how people die. Ask David Wesley, the former NBA player who was racing teammate Bobby Phills 10 or so years ago. Phills died in a wreck.
Or how about Pelle Lindbergh, the former Flyers goaltender who was extremely drunk when he crashed his speeding Porsche into the brick wall of a school and killed himself.
Driving fast, drunk driving and stupidy can certainly lead to a driver dying in a crash. Or worse, killing someone else. Derek Lowe is an ass clown.
To show he's even dumber than a dustpan, he was allegedly racing another vehicle while driving his Porsche.
That's how people die. Ask David Wesley, the former NBA player who was racing teammate Bobby Phills 10 or so years ago. Phills died in a wreck.
Or how about Pelle Lindbergh, the former Flyers goaltender who was extremely drunk when he crashed his speeding Porsche into the brick wall of a school and killed himself.
Driving fast, drunk driving and stupidy can certainly lead to a driver dying in a crash. Or worse, killing someone else. Derek Lowe is an ass clown.
Caseman Can't Keep Up
My radio sidekick on Sunday night's, Casey Bloyer, has a new blog called Caseyatthedraft.blogspot.com. On it he talks about sports, mostly baseball, and beer.
In the month of April so far, Casey has made a grand total of 3 posts. Three! Go look for yourself.
Now I'm sure Caseman would say, "Quality over quantity."
He may be right, he may be wrong.
But come on Casey, get crackalackin on that blog of yours! Your half a dozen fans are demanding it!
In the month of April so far, Casey has made a grand total of 3 posts. Three! Go look for yourself.
Now I'm sure Caseman would say, "Quality over quantity."
He may be right, he may be wrong.
But come on Casey, get crackalackin on that blog of yours! Your half a dozen fans are demanding it!
On Pace Again
Death, taxes and Ichiro collecting 200 hits.
Mariners outfielder Ichiro Suzuki is incredible. He has 35 hits so far and he's on pace to gather 218 on the season.
Not surprising since in his previous 10 seasons he's topped the 200 hit barrier each year. Actually, his lowest hit total was 206 in 2005.
I love watching him play. He's a hit machine, runs hard to first every time and gets a lot of infield hits, plus he is a master in the outfield with a cannon for an arm.
That is why I'm baffled to why Kevin Wheeler of KMOX radio, who comes on our radio show every Sunday night, is not a big Ichiro fan. He thinks Suzuki is selfish.
To me, baseball is the one sport where a guy can be somewhat selfish. If a player for me gets 200 hits with the regularity of Ichiro, then he can be selfish all he wants.
Mariners outfielder Ichiro Suzuki is incredible. He has 35 hits so far and he's on pace to gather 218 on the season.
Not surprising since in his previous 10 seasons he's topped the 200 hit barrier each year. Actually, his lowest hit total was 206 in 2005.
I love watching him play. He's a hit machine, runs hard to first every time and gets a lot of infield hits, plus he is a master in the outfield with a cannon for an arm.
That is why I'm baffled to why Kevin Wheeler of KMOX radio, who comes on our radio show every Sunday night, is not a big Ichiro fan. He thinks Suzuki is selfish.
To me, baseball is the one sport where a guy can be somewhat selfish. If a player for me gets 200 hits with the regularity of Ichiro, then he can be selfish all he wants.
Mr. April 2011
Lance Berkman, had a wretched 20010 by his standards. He hit just .248 with 13 homers and 58 RBI's combined in his stints with the Astros and Yankees. He was plagued by injuries and at the age of 35 there were questions of, "Is Berkman done?"
The answer to that is a resounding no.
Now with the Cardinals, Berkman, entering today's game is hitting .410 with 8 homers and 22 RBI's while playing right-field for the Redbirds.
It's nice to see him bounce back so strong after a difficult 2010. He's one of the game's good guys and he really has had a great and underrated career to date.
The answer to that is a resounding no.
Now with the Cardinals, Berkman, entering today's game is hitting .410 with 8 homers and 22 RBI's while playing right-field for the Redbirds.
It's nice to see him bounce back so strong after a difficult 2010. He's one of the game's good guys and he really has had a great and underrated career to date.
Hurdle Back in Denver
A couple of dopey, out of touch sports talk show hosts here in Denver were wondering the other day if Clint Hurdle would be booed tonight, his first appearance at Coors Field following his 2009 firing as manager of the Rockies.
Hurdle, now piloting the Pirates, is off to an 11-14 start which classifies as a torrid start these days in Pittsburgh.
So, will Clint Hurdle get booed?
Absolutely not.
Why would anyone boo Hurdle?
He was here a long time and took the Rockies to their first and only World Series in 2007. There is no reason to boo him.
Plus, Rockies fans are pretty tame when compared to other cities like New York, Boston and Philadelphia. It takes a lot for the people of Colorado to boo an individual.
I'm certain that Hurdle will get a nice round of applause from the Rockies faithful. And guess what? He deserves it.
Hurdle, now piloting the Pirates, is off to an 11-14 start which classifies as a torrid start these days in Pittsburgh.
So, will Clint Hurdle get booed?
Absolutely not.
Why would anyone boo Hurdle?
He was here a long time and took the Rockies to their first and only World Series in 2007. There is no reason to boo him.
Plus, Rockies fans are pretty tame when compared to other cities like New York, Boston and Philadelphia. It takes a lot for the people of Colorado to boo an individual.
I'm certain that Hurdle will get a nice round of applause from the Rockies faithful. And guess what? He deserves it.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Zobrist Zamazing
Ben Zobrist of the Rays had a doubleheader to remember today against the Twins. So did the Rays as they beat the crap out of Minnesota 8-2 yesterday and took today's doubleheader 15-3 and 6-1.
In the first game of the twinbill, Zobrist was 4-6 with a couple of doubles, a home run and 8 RBI's, a Tampa Bay team record.
In the nightcap, he went 3-4 with a double, home run and 2 ribs.
For those of you keeping score at home, that's 7-10, with 3 doubles, 2 jacks and 10 RBI's. Not a bad day. He had 15 RBI's after yesterday's game. He goes to bed tonight with 25.
As for the Rays, the are playing great baseball. For those of us who wrote them off after they traded Matt Garza and lost Carl Crawford to free agency, we were sorely mistaken. Tampa Bay, which started out a putrid 1-8, has won 12 of 15 and 5 in a row. It won't be just the Yankees and Red Sox battling it out in the AL East this year. Add the Rays. Again.
In the first game of the twinbill, Zobrist was 4-6 with a couple of doubles, a home run and 8 RBI's, a Tampa Bay team record.
In the nightcap, he went 3-4 with a double, home run and 2 ribs.
For those of you keeping score at home, that's 7-10, with 3 doubles, 2 jacks and 10 RBI's. Not a bad day. He had 15 RBI's after yesterday's game. He goes to bed tonight with 25.
As for the Rays, the are playing great baseball. For those of us who wrote them off after they traded Matt Garza and lost Carl Crawford to free agency, we were sorely mistaken. Tampa Bay, which started out a putrid 1-8, has won 12 of 15 and 5 in a row. It won't be just the Yankees and Red Sox battling it out in the AL East this year. Add the Rays. Again.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Jeet-O-Meter #14
Baseball makes no sense. The White Sox ventured into the new Yankee Stadium having lost 10 of 11. The first place Yanks were coming off a weekend sweep of the Baltimores.
So, what happens? The Pale Hose take the first two games of the series, 2-0 last night and 3-2 tonight. While Sergio Santos officially gets credit for the save, the real savior for Chicago tonight was Brent Lillibridge who made two extraordinary catches in the 9th inning. With two on and one out in the bottom of the 9th, Lillibridge robbed A-Rod's drive to the right field wall. Then Robinson Cano was robbed as Lillibridge dove for his vicious liner towards the line and caught it. Cano slammed his helmet down and I nearly threw the remote through the TV. Lillibridg...bleeping Lillibridge. To add insult to injury the guy is a utility INFIELDER. Ugh.
As for Jeter, he went 2-3 to bring his average up to .259. Somewhat alarming, of Jeter's 21 hits this season, he has only 2 extra base hits, both doubles.
He now has 2,947 hits, just 53 away from 3,000.
Hopefully I will update the Jeet-O-Meter tomorrow.
So, what happens? The Pale Hose take the first two games of the series, 2-0 last night and 3-2 tonight. While Sergio Santos officially gets credit for the save, the real savior for Chicago tonight was Brent Lillibridge who made two extraordinary catches in the 9th inning. With two on and one out in the bottom of the 9th, Lillibridge robbed A-Rod's drive to the right field wall. Then Robinson Cano was robbed as Lillibridge dove for his vicious liner towards the line and caught it. Cano slammed his helmet down and I nearly threw the remote through the TV. Lillibridg...bleeping Lillibridge. To add insult to injury the guy is a utility INFIELDER. Ugh.
As for Jeter, he went 2-3 to bring his average up to .259. Somewhat alarming, of Jeter's 21 hits this season, he has only 2 extra base hits, both doubles.
He now has 2,947 hits, just 53 away from 3,000.
Hopefully I will update the Jeet-O-Meter tomorrow.
Helton Flashback
The Rocks got past the Cubs tonight 4-3 to improve to 3-2 on the road trip and a Major League best 10-3 away from home. Not bad for a team that historically has been wretched on the road, including last year's lame 31-50 mark.
A great sign tonight was Todd Helton who belted a pair of solo homers. If the Rockies can get a decent season out of their first baseman, that would be huge. So nice to see him knock a couple out. He now has 336 lifetime homers.
I don't know how long he'll play and his tank is closer to empty than full. But when it's all said and done, Helton will go down as one of my favorite players ever. Class with a capital C.
A great sign tonight was Todd Helton who belted a pair of solo homers. If the Rockies can get a decent season out of their first baseman, that would be huge. So nice to see him knock a couple out. He now has 336 lifetime homers.
I don't know how long he'll play and his tank is closer to empty than full. But when it's all said and done, Helton will go down as one of my favorite players ever. Class with a capital C.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Jeet-O-Meter #13
Derek Jeter rapped out 4 hits yesterday in the Yankees extra inning win in Baltimore. He is now hitting a more respectable .257. Hopefully it's a sign he's breaking out of his slump.
He now has 2,945 hits, 45 more needed for 3,000.
As for the games in Baltimore, did you ever wonder why there are so many Yankees fans at Camden Yards when the Yanks play there?
Simple. It's cheaper to go to a game in Baltimore. With travel, food, hotel, tickets and such, it is more cost effective than to go to a game at the new Yankee Stadium.
He now has 2,945 hits, 45 more needed for 3,000.
As for the games in Baltimore, did you ever wonder why there are so many Yankees fans at Camden Yards when the Yanks play there?
Simple. It's cheaper to go to a game in Baltimore. With travel, food, hotel, tickets and such, it is more cost effective than to go to a game at the new Yankee Stadium.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Fish In Mix
The Marlins have a squad this year. If I'm the Phillies I'm keeping my eyes on these guys.
Last night, Florida beat Colorado 4-1 as Anibal Sanchez lost his no-hitter in the 9th on a Dexter Fowler single.
The Rocks have been hot to start the year but so have the Marlins. The Fish have won 4 in a row and stand at 12-6, just a half game behind Philadelphia.
I know, it's early. But so far so good for the Marlins.
Last night, Florida beat Colorado 4-1 as Anibal Sanchez lost his no-hitter in the 9th on a Dexter Fowler single.
The Rocks have been hot to start the year but so have the Marlins. The Fish have won 4 in a row and stand at 12-6, just a half game behind Philadelphia.
I know, it's early. But so far so good for the Marlins.
Quade Complains
Cubs Manager Mike Quade complained the other day that the Dodgers tried to steal a base with an 8-1 lead in the 5th inning at Wrigley Field. He cited the "unwritten rules" of baseball. Awwww, poor baby.
Excuse me Quade, but isn't a baseball game 9-innings? Isn't it possible for a team to score 8,9, or 10 runs in 5-innings or turns at-bat which was the situation for Chicago?
Earlier this season, the Brewers with a 5-0 lead on the Cubs, stole a base. Carlos Gomez ended up scoring and the final was 6-0 Milwaukee. Quade moaned about that.
What, you can't steal bases on the Cubs with a lead? Do you have to ask permission from Quade if you can steal? Is this guy an expert on the stupid "unwritten rules" of baseball? If he knows so much he should then write up the rules.
Better yet, stop falling behind so much and instead of managing the other team, try managing your own damn team.
I said it before and I'll say it again. The Cubs should have hired Ryne Sandberg to be their manager. Already he seems over matched. Quade, in his first full season as a Major League manager should stop complaining and try establishing himself first. My advice to Quade...PIPE DOWN!
Excuse me Quade, but isn't a baseball game 9-innings? Isn't it possible for a team to score 8,9, or 10 runs in 5-innings or turns at-bat which was the situation for Chicago?
Earlier this season, the Brewers with a 5-0 lead on the Cubs, stole a base. Carlos Gomez ended up scoring and the final was 6-0 Milwaukee. Quade moaned about that.
What, you can't steal bases on the Cubs with a lead? Do you have to ask permission from Quade if you can steal? Is this guy an expert on the stupid "unwritten rules" of baseball? If he knows so much he should then write up the rules.
Better yet, stop falling behind so much and instead of managing the other team, try managing your own damn team.
I said it before and I'll say it again. The Cubs should have hired Ryne Sandberg to be their manager. Already he seems over matched. Quade, in his first full season as a Major League manager should stop complaining and try establishing himself first. My advice to Quade...PIPE DOWN!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Happy Birthday...Now Git!
Giants first baseman Brandon Belt, a guy who many have tabbed as a potential Rookie of the Year, celebrated his 23rd birthday yesterday.
Although I'm guessing he's had better birthdays.
The youngster, hitting just .192 with a homer and 4 RBI's was sent to the minors yesterday. Happy Birthday! And hellooooo Fresno!
Although I'm guessing he's had better birthdays.
The youngster, hitting just .192 with a homer and 4 RBI's was sent to the minors yesterday. Happy Birthday! And hellooooo Fresno!
Really Bad
The Astros, not to be confused with the 27 Yankees, got past the Mets last night at Citi Field, 4-3, dropping the New York National League Nine to a dismal 5-13, their worst start since beginning 1964 with a 3-15 mark.
The Mets are 1-8 at home, their worst start at home since their original season of 1962 when they were 1-7 at the Polo Grounds. That year the Mets finished 40-120, one of the worst teams ever.
Will the Mets win only 40 games this year? No. They are not that bad. But we can hope can't we?
The Mets are 1-8 at home, their worst start at home since their original season of 1962 when they were 1-7 at the Polo Grounds. That year the Mets finished 40-120, one of the worst teams ever.
Will the Mets win only 40 games this year? No. They are not that bad. But we can hope can't we?
The Halos
Maybe Texas won't run away with the AL West.
The Angels, after a rare down season last year, appear to be back. Seriously, did you think the Angels would remain down long with Mike Scioscia as their manager.
Last night the Angels won at Texas 4-1 to run their record to 12-6, a game better than the Rangers.
Jared Weaver became the first 5-game winner (5-0) in baseball. His ERA is a puny 1.23. It looks like it will be an interesting summer in the West, excluding the Mariners and probably the Athletics.
The Angels, after a rare down season last year, appear to be back. Seriously, did you think the Angels would remain down long with Mike Scioscia as their manager.
Last night the Angels won at Texas 4-1 to run their record to 12-6, a game better than the Rangers.
Jared Weaver became the first 5-game winner (5-0) in baseball. His ERA is a puny 1.23. It looks like it will be an interesting summer in the West, excluding the Mariners and probably the Athletics.
The New Expos?
Major League Baseball has taken over the daily operations of the Dodgers. Ommissioner Bud Selig saying it is needed due to the messy divorce of the McCourts, Frank and trampy Jaime.
The team had to borrow money from Fox TV to help with payroll and is having financial issues. It's like a bad sit-com at Dodger Stadium.
The last time Major League Baseball operated a team it was the Montreal Expos. How did that work out? Not good for Montreal although the move to Washington has been beneficial to the franchise with a new ballpark, stable ownership in Ted Lerner a guy who seems to have a clue and wants to win. Don't be surprised if the Nats are really good in a couple of years with Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper leading the way.
Anyway, with MLB stepping into the Dodgers business, you have to wonder, when they will do the same with the Mets who are also a mess and are having massive financial difficulties.
The difference could be this. Bud Selig is close friends with Fred Wilpon, the owner of the Mets. Buddy boy is not close friends with Frank McCourt.
I don't think it will be a distraction for the Dodgers though. Don Mattingly will keep them focused and really, the players don't give a crap who the owner is so long they get paid.
The team had to borrow money from Fox TV to help with payroll and is having financial issues. It's like a bad sit-com at Dodger Stadium.
The last time Major League Baseball operated a team it was the Montreal Expos. How did that work out? Not good for Montreal although the move to Washington has been beneficial to the franchise with a new ballpark, stable ownership in Ted Lerner a guy who seems to have a clue and wants to win. Don't be surprised if the Nats are really good in a couple of years with Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper leading the way.
Anyway, with MLB stepping into the Dodgers business, you have to wonder, when they will do the same with the Mets who are also a mess and are having massive financial difficulties.
The difference could be this. Bud Selig is close friends with Fred Wilpon, the owner of the Mets. Buddy boy is not close friends with Frank McCourt.
I don't think it will be a distraction for the Dodgers though. Don Mattingly will keep them focused and really, the players don't give a crap who the owner is so long they get paid.
Mr. Wimpy
I watched the Rockies 10-2 win over the Giants yesterday...at home, on TV, in the comfort and warmth of my palatial estate.
The reason I watched at home is because it was too cold yesterday for me to go to Coors Field. It was a cloudy, overcast day with temperatures in the upper 40's. Plus, there was a threat of rain.
Here's why I am wimpy. Even though I sit in the press box where they close the windows and turn up the heat when it's cold, I still didn't go. Because that would mean walking from my warm, heated car to the ballpark in the cold.
I don't like cold weather. I hate and despise it. To me anything under 80-degrees is chilly and under 70-degrees is cold. Under 60-degrees is downright frigid. I guess I trace my desire to being warm to my Dominican heritage.
So, I admit, I wimped out yesterday. With the Rockies heading to Florida this weekend, I'll at least feel warm watching the games on TV.
By the way, if there are any radio stations in Phoenix or Miami that need a sports broadcaster, here I am!
The reason I watched at home is because it was too cold yesterday for me to go to Coors Field. It was a cloudy, overcast day with temperatures in the upper 40's. Plus, there was a threat of rain.
Here's why I am wimpy. Even though I sit in the press box where they close the windows and turn up the heat when it's cold, I still didn't go. Because that would mean walking from my warm, heated car to the ballpark in the cold.
I don't like cold weather. I hate and despise it. To me anything under 80-degrees is chilly and under 70-degrees is cold. Under 60-degrees is downright frigid. I guess I trace my desire to being warm to my Dominican heritage.
So, I admit, I wimped out yesterday. With the Rockies heading to Florida this weekend, I'll at least feel warm watching the games on TV.
By the way, if there are any radio stations in Phoenix or Miami that need a sports broadcaster, here I am!
Monday, April 18, 2011
Freak Show
With one out in the 7th, Carlos Gonzalez rapped a clean single to right field, the first hit of the night for the Rockies against the great Tim Lincecum.
I was watching the game on TV and by the 3rd inning it was apparent that Lincecum had "no-hit" stuff. Is stuff is pretty good anyway but tonight it was electric.
By the 6th inning I was lamenting not going to the game. I've always wanted to see a no-no in person and because I get up at 4 a.m., I usually skip night games during the week.
The Giants sent a message to the Rockies with an 8-1 win. Lincecum went 7 2/3rd innings allowing just 3 hits, that one run and 10 punchouts.
So I'm glad The Freak didn't pitch a no-hitter because if he did I would be bummed out that I didn't go.
The closest I've come to seeing a no-no was in April of 1987 when Jaime Moyer of the Cubs took a no-hitter into the 9th at Veterans Stadium against the Phillies. I was really hoping for the no-no but Juan Samuel led off the bottom of the 9th with a clean single to center.
Oh well. I'm still waiting to see my first no-hitter in person. I'm just glad I didn't miss my chance tonight.
I was watching the game on TV and by the 3rd inning it was apparent that Lincecum had "no-hit" stuff. Is stuff is pretty good anyway but tonight it was electric.
By the 6th inning I was lamenting not going to the game. I've always wanted to see a no-no in person and because I get up at 4 a.m., I usually skip night games during the week.
The Giants sent a message to the Rockies with an 8-1 win. Lincecum went 7 2/3rd innings allowing just 3 hits, that one run and 10 punchouts.
So I'm glad The Freak didn't pitch a no-hitter because if he did I would be bummed out that I didn't go.
The closest I've come to seeing a no-no was in April of 1987 when Jaime Moyer of the Cubs took a no-hitter into the 9th at Veterans Stadium against the Phillies. I was really hoping for the no-no but Juan Samuel led off the bottom of the 9th with a clean single to center.
Oh well. I'm still waiting to see my first no-hitter in person. I'm just glad I didn't miss my chance tonight.
Cut Down To Size
Everybody was touting the Orioles as a much improved team under manager Buck Showalter. Perhaps. But not lately.
The Twins knocked off the Baltimores 5-3 tonight, handing the Birds their 8th straight setback.
Two words for Showalter who was popping off earlier this year in Men's Journal. "Pipe Down."
The Twins knocked off the Baltimores 5-3 tonight, handing the Birds their 8th straight setback.
Two words for Showalter who was popping off earlier this year in Men's Journal. "Pipe Down."
A Stupid Guy?
Reds pitcher Mike Leake will earn $450,000 this season. This coming off his 2.3-millon dollar signing bonus two years ago.
So why is Leake stealing, alledgedly, six T-shirts from a Macy's store in Cincinnati, shirts valued at $59?
I will reserve judgement on this for now. I mean, there has to be some sort of mix-up or mistake here. Leake can't possibly be that stupid. Can he?
He's 2-0 this season and is scheduled to pitch again on Thursday. We'll see if he makes his start.
So why is Leake stealing, alledgedly, six T-shirts from a Macy's store in Cincinnati, shirts valued at $59?
I will reserve judgement on this for now. I mean, there has to be some sort of mix-up or mistake here. Leake can't possibly be that stupid. Can he?
He's 2-0 this season and is scheduled to pitch again on Thursday. We'll see if he makes his start.
Randy Levine is an Idiot
Yankees team president Randy Levine, a money guy not a baseball guy, blames the Yankees 9-percent decrease in attendance to "the weather."
OK, perhaps there is some validity in that. April games tend to have unpredictable weather and some people prefer to wait until the temperatures increase.
But while rattling off reasons why the Yankees attendance is down, perhaps the main reason was never mentioned. That reason? IT'S FREAKING EXPENSIVE TO GO TO A BASEBALL GAME IN THE BRONX these days.
It costs $35 to park in the stadium lots, up from $23 a year ago. The top seats are over $300. Even cheapie seats are $23.
Concessions are outrageous. $12.50 for a beer, $9 for a hamburger, $15 for a deli meat sammitch, $9 burritos, $6.50 for an ice cream sundae...you get the idea.
So while Levine complains about the weather, if the prices for tickets, parking and concessions were a little more reasonable then perhaps more people would show up. Years of price gouging the fans might be catching up to the Yankees.
Even though I'm a Yankees fan, the way they treat their fans is deplorable. And it's been that way for a long time.
Even the last time I was at the old stadium, I was treated rudely during the stadium tour. I was taking a picture and some security goon told me, "come on, let's move it along." Yeah, the extra 10-seconds I took snapping a picture really ruined the tour for everyone. Sometimes I think that if I wasn't born a Yankees fan I would hate them like everybody else does.
Randy Levine, Lonn Trost, Hank Steinbrenner, the entire organization has been infiltrated by greedy money grubbers first and foremost. These suits make me sick.
OK, perhaps there is some validity in that. April games tend to have unpredictable weather and some people prefer to wait until the temperatures increase.
But while rattling off reasons why the Yankees attendance is down, perhaps the main reason was never mentioned. That reason? IT'S FREAKING EXPENSIVE TO GO TO A BASEBALL GAME IN THE BRONX these days.
It costs $35 to park in the stadium lots, up from $23 a year ago. The top seats are over $300. Even cheapie seats are $23.
Concessions are outrageous. $12.50 for a beer, $9 for a hamburger, $15 for a deli meat sammitch, $9 burritos, $6.50 for an ice cream sundae...you get the idea.
So while Levine complains about the weather, if the prices for tickets, parking and concessions were a little more reasonable then perhaps more people would show up. Years of price gouging the fans might be catching up to the Yankees.
Even though I'm a Yankees fan, the way they treat their fans is deplorable. And it's been that way for a long time.
Even the last time I was at the old stadium, I was treated rudely during the stadium tour. I was taking a picture and some security goon told me, "come on, let's move it along." Yeah, the extra 10-seconds I took snapping a picture really ruined the tour for everyone. Sometimes I think that if I wasn't born a Yankees fan I would hate them like everybody else does.
Randy Levine, Lonn Trost, Hank Steinbrenner, the entire organization has been infiltrated by greedy money grubbers first and foremost. These suits make me sick.
Jeet-O-Meter #12
Haven't been able to post much this past weekend so let's get crackalackin right now.
Updating the Jeet-O-Meter, the Yankees captain has 2,939 career hits, leaving him 61 away from 3,000.
Jeter, off to a phlegmatic .241 start (13-54) will heat up soon. Don't worry.
Meanwhile, the Yanks have an off night tonight.
Updating the Jeet-O-Meter, the Yankees captain has 2,939 career hits, leaving him 61 away from 3,000.
Jeter, off to a phlegmatic .241 start (13-54) will heat up soon. Don't worry.
Meanwhile, the Yanks have an off night tonight.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Big Z
Carlos Zambrano, despite getting roughed up in the 6th inning last night, picked up the win in the Cubs 9-5 victory over the Astros in Houston.
Zambrano is 2-0 and has won 10 consecutive decisions dating back to last season.
We all know how volitile Z can be. We've seen him scrap with teammates, jaw-jack with umpires and disagree with managers.
However, when he's right, he's one of the best pitchers in baseball.
In addition to the win last night, Zambrano homered. It's his 22nd career homer. Not bad at all. If the National League had a DH it wouldn't be a bad idea to have Big Z fill that role from time to time when he wasn't pitching. Still, he's a good option for Mike Quade off the bench in one of those long extra-inning games. The guy can swing the bat. And he can pitch. So long his mental state of mind isn't mental.
Zambrano is 2-0 and has won 10 consecutive decisions dating back to last season.
We all know how volitile Z can be. We've seen him scrap with teammates, jaw-jack with umpires and disagree with managers.
However, when he's right, he's one of the best pitchers in baseball.
In addition to the win last night, Zambrano homered. It's his 22nd career homer. Not bad at all. If the National League had a DH it wouldn't be a bad idea to have Big Z fill that role from time to time when he wasn't pitching. Still, he's a good option for Mike Quade off the bench in one of those long extra-inning games. The guy can swing the bat. And he can pitch. So long his mental state of mind isn't mental.
Best Commercial Ever?
I love the commercial that features Alec Baldwin, Yankees fan, and John Krasinski, Red Sox fan.
The two are trash-talking on the phone about the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry. It is hysterical. The commercial is for New Era Cap company but the spot doesn't even talk about it.
Go to YouTube and type in "New Era Commercial - The Trash Talking Begins." It's good.
The two are trash-talking on the phone about the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry. It is hysterical. The commercial is for New Era Cap company but the spot doesn't even talk about it.
Go to YouTube and type in "New Era Commercial - The Trash Talking Begins." It's good.
Hack By the Numbers
I was perusing www.baseball-reference.com this morning and was looking up Stan Hack who played for the Cubs his entire 16 year career, beginning in 1932. He was a lifetime .301 hitter with 2,193 total hits. An excellent career, obviously.
Here's what I don't get. He wore, in order, uniform numbers 1, 31, 49, 34, 39, 6, 20 and 25. What if the Cubs wanted to retire his number? Do they retire all of them? One of them?
Baseball players tend to be superstitious especially concerning their uniform number. It is apparent that Hack didn't care which uniform number he had, just so long he had a uniform.
By the way, Hack had a good nickname. Smiling Stan.
Here's what I don't get. He wore, in order, uniform numbers 1, 31, 49, 34, 39, 6, 20 and 25. What if the Cubs wanted to retire his number? Do they retire all of them? One of them?
Baseball players tend to be superstitious especially concerning their uniform number. It is apparent that Hack didn't care which uniform number he had, just so long he had a uniform.
By the way, Hack had a good nickname. Smiling Stan.
Obstruction of Justice
At the boring Barry Bonds perjury trail, the steroid enhanced former slugger was found guilty of obstruction of justice. The jury couldn't come to a conclusion on three other charges.
Let's be real here. If anyone thinks Bonds didn't take steroids or HGH is a fool. If anyone believes his "I thought it was flaxseed oil" defense is a moron.
The guy used steroids and he lied about it. Who cares what a judge and jury find. We all know that he's disingenuous.
Again, look at his stats. Guys who are 36 years old don't hit 73 home runs and don't get better as they get into their upper 30's. In general, guys are in their baseball prime from the ages of 27-32 and then start to deteriorate in most cases. Unless they're on the juice.
With modern day training techniques and legal supplements and nutrition, guys can extend their primes for little while.
So, getting back to my original point, the Barry Bonds trial is really irrelevant as it pertains to baseball. We all know he used and his records are fraudulent. As far as any right minded baseball person knows, Hank Aaron is still the home run king and not the splenetic liar, Bonds. Bonds was, is and always will be a bum in my book. Hall of Fame? I don't think so.
Let's be real here. If anyone thinks Bonds didn't take steroids or HGH is a fool. If anyone believes his "I thought it was flaxseed oil" defense is a moron.
The guy used steroids and he lied about it. Who cares what a judge and jury find. We all know that he's disingenuous.
Again, look at his stats. Guys who are 36 years old don't hit 73 home runs and don't get better as they get into their upper 30's. In general, guys are in their baseball prime from the ages of 27-32 and then start to deteriorate in most cases. Unless they're on the juice.
With modern day training techniques and legal supplements and nutrition, guys can extend their primes for little while.
So, getting back to my original point, the Barry Bonds trial is really irrelevant as it pertains to baseball. We all know he used and his records are fraudulent. As far as any right minded baseball person knows, Hank Aaron is still the home run king and not the splenetic liar, Bonds. Bonds was, is and always will be a bum in my book. Hall of Fame? I don't think so.
Jeet-O-Meter #11
Time to update the old meter as we countdown Derek Jeter's march towards 3,000 hits.
Last night, in the Yanks 7-4 win over the Baltimores, Jeter was 2-4, bringing his career hit total to 2,935, leaving him 65 short of 3-grand. No Yankee, in the team's glorious history, has ever collected 3,000 hits.
Meanwhile, Jeter's average sits at a very un-Jeter-like .237. But that will climb along with the hit total.
Last night, in the Yanks 7-4 win over the Baltimores, Jeter was 2-4, bringing his career hit total to 2,935, leaving him 65 short of 3-grand. No Yankee, in the team's glorious history, has ever collected 3,000 hits.
Meanwhile, Jeter's average sits at a very un-Jeter-like .237. But that will climb along with the hit total.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Hamilton Hurt
Josh Hamilton left today's game with a shoulder injury suffered when he tried to score in the first inning when a pop up by the Tigers dugout left home plate uncovered. Hamilton, who had tripled and went into third head first, went head first into home, was tagged out and hurt his shoulder.
He also blamed his third base coach Dave Anderson for sending him home.
"It was a stupid play. I definitely shouldn't have done it. I listened to my third base coach. That's a little too aggressive."
Way to throw your coach under the bus Josh.
Anderson simply said that he tried to steal a run with two outs and that he would have sent any of his speed guys, Hamilton being one of them.
Hamilton's x-ray didn't show a separation or dislocation. We'll see if he's "day to day" or put on the DL.
Stupid play or not, Hamilton shouldn't have blamed his third base coach. If he slides feet first into home, like he should, then he wouldn't have to worry about a shoulder injury.
The Tigers won by the way, 5-4, on drunky first baseman Miguel Cabrera's 9th inning RBI single. Just the 4th win for Detroit and the 2nd loss for Texas.
He also blamed his third base coach Dave Anderson for sending him home.
"It was a stupid play. I definitely shouldn't have done it. I listened to my third base coach. That's a little too aggressive."
Way to throw your coach under the bus Josh.
Anderson simply said that he tried to steal a run with two outs and that he would have sent any of his speed guys, Hamilton being one of them.
Hamilton's x-ray didn't show a separation or dislocation. We'll see if he's "day to day" or put on the DL.
Stupid play or not, Hamilton shouldn't have blamed his third base coach. If he slides feet first into home, like he should, then he wouldn't have to worry about a shoulder injury.
The Tigers won by the way, 5-4, on drunky first baseman Miguel Cabrera's 9th inning RBI single. Just the 4th win for Detroit and the 2nd loss for Texas.
Time Zoned!
At the radio station today, my always upbeat co-worker Mark Crowley was in a bit of a down mood at the mention of last night's Rockies-Mets game.
Since he's a Rockies fan and the Rocks won, I couldn't understand his mood.
"I settled in to watch the game at 7 and they were in the 7th inning. I forgot the game was in New York and started at 5."
Ah, now I understand. He got "time zoned!"
Since he's a Rockies fan and the Rocks won, I couldn't understand his mood.
"I settled in to watch the game at 7 and they were in the 7th inning. I forgot the game was in New York and started at 5."
Ah, now I understand. He got "time zoned!"
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Devil Rays Flashbacks
The Rays of course were originally called the Devil Rays. The then decided to call themselves simply the Rays. Maybe they wanted to get rid of any satanic connotations.
As the Rays, Tampa Bay has been a pretty darn good ball club, even going to the World Series in 2008 before falling to the Phillies. Last year, Tampa Bay won the American League East with a payroll of slightly more than 23-thousand dollars while the Yankees and their 794-billion dollar payroll came in second and snared the wild card.
As the Devil Rays, Tampa Bay had some pretty hideous seasons.
Well, this season, so far, Tampa Bay is playing like the Devil Rays and not the Rays. They are 1-8 after losing today to the White Sox, the worst start in franchise history which dates all the way back to 1998.
By the way, who broadcast the first professional game in Tampa Bay franchise history? That would be me, in 1996.
As the Rays, Tampa Bay has been a pretty darn good ball club, even going to the World Series in 2008 before falling to the Phillies. Last year, Tampa Bay won the American League East with a payroll of slightly more than 23-thousand dollars while the Yankees and their 794-billion dollar payroll came in second and snared the wild card.
As the Devil Rays, Tampa Bay had some pretty hideous seasons.
Well, this season, so far, Tampa Bay is playing like the Devil Rays and not the Rays. They are 1-8 after losing today to the White Sox, the worst start in franchise history which dates all the way back to 1998.
By the way, who broadcast the first professional game in Tampa Bay franchise history? That would be me, in 1996.
Rocks Be Hot
The Rockies rallied to beat the Pirates today, 6-5. Colorado off to a nice 6-2 start, which could easily be 8-0 since the two games they lost, Opening Day to the Diamondbacks and the other night in 14-innings to the Bucs were games they could have and should have won.
I'm sure if you asked Jim Tracy, or any manager, if they would take a 6-2 start, they would take it in a heartbeat.
Anyway, I watched the end of the Mets game today. Washington rallied to tie it at 3 and then won it 7-3 in 11-innings.
The Rockies visit the Mets tomorrow, the start of a 4-game series. Colorado has never played very well in New York but this is a lousy Mets team. The Mets are 4-5 and when Colorado leaves the big town late Thursday afternoon I hope the Mets are 4-9 and the Rocks are 10-2.
I'm sure if you asked Jim Tracy, or any manager, if they would take a 6-2 start, they would take it in a heartbeat.
Anyway, I watched the end of the Mets game today. Washington rallied to tie it at 3 and then won it 7-3 in 11-innings.
The Rockies visit the Mets tomorrow, the start of a 4-game series. Colorado has never played very well in New York but this is a lousy Mets team. The Mets are 4-5 and when Colorado leaves the big town late Thursday afternoon I hope the Mets are 4-9 and the Rocks are 10-2.
Terry Kennedy's Memory
Went down to Colorado Springs yesterday to catch the Sky Sox. It was nice to see my buddy Dan Karcher, the long-time radio play-by-play voice of the Sky Sox. The guy should be broadcasting Major League Baseball.
Anyway, Tucson Padres won the game 9-7 over the Sky Sox. Tucson jumped out to a 9-0 lead and held on for the win.
After the ballgame, I went into the Tucson locker room to say hi to Padres Manager Terry Kennedy.
I re-introduced myself and asked about something that happened 17-years ago. He remembered and his coaches found our conversation pretty funny.
In 1994, Kennedy was piloting the Vermont Expos of the NY-Penn League. I was broadcasting for the Hudson Valley Renegades and on this particular night at Dutchess Stadium, the Renegades beat the visiting Expos 3-1.
During my post-game show, I was looking at my scorebook, doing the scoring recap when a big blue spike stepped on my table and a huge, 6'4, 220 pound Kennedy was climbing through the window. He was madder than mad.
"Are you the guy on the speakers," he demanded to me?
He was looking for the P.A. guy and I was only too happy to point him towards Rick Zolzer the wise-ass P.A. announcer we had.
Apparently Zolzer forgot his mike was "on" and unflattering comments about one of Vermont's pitchers, Brady Frost, went out to the public. One of the comments was, "This guy's pitches aren't even breaking the speed limit!"
Kennedy was incensed and he went after Zolzer. All while I was doing play-by-play of the argument between the hulking and furious Kennedy and the "crapping his pants" P.A. douche.
The funniest part of all of this was when Kennedy exited the press box the same way he entered, through my window. As he made his way to the concourse behind home plate he was swarmed by autograph seekers. He stood there and signed autographs for 10-minutes!
Kennedy remembered the incident and was glad I reminded him of some of the details. He's a good guy and was a pretty good player in his day. I'd like to see him get a shot at managing in the big leagues some time soon.
Anyway, Tucson Padres won the game 9-7 over the Sky Sox. Tucson jumped out to a 9-0 lead and held on for the win.
After the ballgame, I went into the Tucson locker room to say hi to Padres Manager Terry Kennedy.
I re-introduced myself and asked about something that happened 17-years ago. He remembered and his coaches found our conversation pretty funny.
In 1994, Kennedy was piloting the Vermont Expos of the NY-Penn League. I was broadcasting for the Hudson Valley Renegades and on this particular night at Dutchess Stadium, the Renegades beat the visiting Expos 3-1.
During my post-game show, I was looking at my scorebook, doing the scoring recap when a big blue spike stepped on my table and a huge, 6'4, 220 pound Kennedy was climbing through the window. He was madder than mad.
"Are you the guy on the speakers," he demanded to me?
He was looking for the P.A. guy and I was only too happy to point him towards Rick Zolzer the wise-ass P.A. announcer we had.
Apparently Zolzer forgot his mike was "on" and unflattering comments about one of Vermont's pitchers, Brady Frost, went out to the public. One of the comments was, "This guy's pitches aren't even breaking the speed limit!"
Kennedy was incensed and he went after Zolzer. All while I was doing play-by-play of the argument between the hulking and furious Kennedy and the "crapping his pants" P.A. douche.
The funniest part of all of this was when Kennedy exited the press box the same way he entered, through my window. As he made his way to the concourse behind home plate he was swarmed by autograph seekers. He stood there and signed autographs for 10-minutes!
Kennedy remembered the incident and was glad I reminded him of some of the details. He's a good guy and was a pretty good player in his day. I'd like to see him get a shot at managing in the big leagues some time soon.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Bad Feeling
The Rockies just lost in 14-innings, 4-3 to the Pirates. Great game but a frustrating one for the Rockies. After jumping out to a 3-0 first inning lead on a Giambi homer, they didn't score again. But they had chances. Oh did they have their chances. But the Bucs bullpen somehow got the job done. Clutch hitting was not in Colorado's vocabulary tonight. They were 0-13 with men in scoring position. This is a game they should have won. Good bye 4-game winning streak.
Once Franklin Morales came in to pitch for the Rockies in the bottom of the 14th, I started getting ready for bed. Every time I see him come into a game I get a bad feeling. Usually its warrented. Of course Morales got the first two guys out. Then he walked a guy, this time Josh Rodriguez. Can Morales ever get through an inning without walking a guy? Then he gave up a wall ball to Jose Tabata to score the winning run.
I wanted to see the game go 15-innings but when Morales came into the game I anticipated finally getting to bed in a matter of moments. Good night.
Once Franklin Morales came in to pitch for the Rockies in the bottom of the 14th, I started getting ready for bed. Every time I see him come into a game I get a bad feeling. Usually its warrented. Of course Morales got the first two guys out. Then he walked a guy, this time Josh Rodriguez. Can Morales ever get through an inning without walking a guy? Then he gave up a wall ball to Jose Tabata to score the winning run.
I wanted to see the game go 15-innings but when Morales came into the game I anticipated finally getting to bed in a matter of moments. Good night.
Sign Her Up!
Violet Smith celebrated her 109th birthday...by throwing out the ceremonial first pitch before the Great Lakes Loons home opener.
Great Lakes is a Dodgers farm team in the Class A Midwest League.
Violet took the ball about 25 feet from home plate and bounced the throw but who cares? She practiced throwing before the game with her 72 year old son. I'm guessing Violet is the best 109 year old ballplayer in the world!
Good for Violet and nice job by Great Lakes honoring her on her birthday.
Great Lakes is a Dodgers farm team in the Class A Midwest League.
Violet took the ball about 25 feet from home plate and bounced the throw but who cares? She practiced throwing before the game with her 72 year old son. I'm guessing Violet is the best 109 year old ballplayer in the world!
Good for Violet and nice job by Great Lakes honoring her on her birthday.
Ruh Roh!
Todd Helton was scratched before the game for the Rockies due to lower back stiffness.
That is not a good sign. Back problems have sapped Helton of his power and for it to happen this early in the season is a definite red flag. Yikes.
That is not a good sign. Back problems have sapped Helton of his power and for it to happen this early in the season is a definite red flag. Yikes.
Jeet-O-Meter #10
Tough loss today for the Yankees at Fenway. The Red Sox apparently won't go 0-162 as they outslugged New York 9-6 to improve to 1-6.
Phil Hughes looked terrible again for the Yanks. He's given up 11 runs in 6 innings in his first two starts.
John Lackey looked lousy too for the Red Sox but the Yankees couldn't put up a big inning.
Anyway, Derek Jeter went 1-5. He's batting just .231 in the early going. He now stands at 2,932 career hits. For those without access to a calculator, that's 68 hits away from 3,000.
Phil Hughes looked terrible again for the Yanks. He's given up 11 runs in 6 innings in his first two starts.
John Lackey looked lousy too for the Red Sox but the Yankees couldn't put up a big inning.
Anyway, Derek Jeter went 1-5. He's batting just .231 in the early going. He now stands at 2,932 career hits. For those without access to a calculator, that's 68 hits away from 3,000.
Get Lost Manny
So Manny Ramirez got popped again for using illegal, performance enhancing drugs. I actually am shocked. While I've never thought Ramirez possessed a great deal of intelligence, I thought he would at least be smart enough not to get caught again. Put him in the Rafael Palmiero category of stupid.
Facing a 100-game suspension, ManRam decided to retire.
Ramirez was just 1-17 this season, that hit a single. It looks like Manny was either falling victim to age or he couldn't hit without his drugs.
So despite a career .312 average with 555 home runs and 1,831 RBI's it looks like he'll join the other steroid users in not making the Hall of Fame.
Personally, I thought he was one of the greatest right-handed hitters I've ever seen. Clutch too. Crappy defensive player. But the thing that bothered me most about Ramirez was his lack of hustle, his "I don't give a crap" attitude and his dreadlocks. He looked disgraceful in a baseball uniform.
Now that Ramirez is gone, good riddance. I hope he disappears for good...although I wouldn't be surprised if he ends his retirement at some point and tries to make a comeback. I mean, what else is he going to do?
Facing a 100-game suspension, ManRam decided to retire.
Ramirez was just 1-17 this season, that hit a single. It looks like Manny was either falling victim to age or he couldn't hit without his drugs.
So despite a career .312 average with 555 home runs and 1,831 RBI's it looks like he'll join the other steroid users in not making the Hall of Fame.
Personally, I thought he was one of the greatest right-handed hitters I've ever seen. Clutch too. Crappy defensive player. But the thing that bothered me most about Ramirez was his lack of hustle, his "I don't give a crap" attitude and his dreadlocks. He looked disgraceful in a baseball uniform.
Now that Ramirez is gone, good riddance. I hope he disappears for good...although I wouldn't be surprised if he ends his retirement at some point and tries to make a comeback. I mean, what else is he going to do?
Effin' Annoying
I'm watching the Rockies-Pirates game on Root, formerly Fox Sports Rocky Mountain. Good ballgame, top of the 7th, tied at 3.
But I'm not enjoying the game as I should.
Root is running a constant scroll at the bottom of the screen of fans text messages. Not only is it distracting the messages are inane and worthless. Whoever came up with this idea should be ordered to stop it right now. If they keep it up they get fired.
Let me watch the bleeping game!
TV producers/directors can be so damn stupid.
But I'm not enjoying the game as I should.
Root is running a constant scroll at the bottom of the screen of fans text messages. Not only is it distracting the messages are inane and worthless. Whoever came up with this idea should be ordered to stop it right now. If they keep it up they get fired.
Let me watch the bleeping game!
TV producers/directors can be so damn stupid.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Jeet-O-Meter #9
Two hits for Derek Jeter in today's Yankees win, 4-3 over the Twins. Jeter now with 2,931 career knocks, just 69 away from 3,000.
Jeter will try to add to that total tomorrow at Fenway as the 4-2 Yanks face the 0-6 Red Sox. Boston lost this afternoon, 1-0 to the Indians. Maybe we shouldn't just give the Red Sox the AL East and World Series title just yet.
Jeter will try to add to that total tomorrow at Fenway as the 4-2 Yanks face the 0-6 Red Sox. Boston lost this afternoon, 1-0 to the Indians. Maybe we shouldn't just give the Red Sox the AL East and World Series title just yet.
Tulo's Hot
In addition to watching the Twins-Yanks, I'm watching the Rockies-Bucs game, the home Opener in Pittsburgh.
A couple of thoughts.
First, Troy Tulowitzki is the best shortstop in baseball. Better than Jimmy Rollins, better than Hanley Ramirez, better than Derek Jeter, better than them all. Tulo just homered for for his third home run in as many games. He's picking up where he left off last September when he was Alesandra Ambrosio hot.
As for Pittsburgh, they are off to a nice 4-2 start. Don't worry, they'll rack up their record 19th consecutive season. They are just delaying the inevitable until early August. Anyway, its a beautiful, sunny day in Pittsburgh. There is a full house at amazing PNC Park. With the Pirates copious history, if this team ever got good, the fans would flock to the yard every day, not just Opening Day. Such a shame that the Pittsburgh Pirates have become a laughing stock. I remember when they begged for a new stadium, claiming they needed it to compete. PNC Park is, hard to believe, now in its 11th season and the stadium hasn't even sniffed a winning season. Very sad. But as someone who went to college in Pittsburgh and who loves the city, I hope the Bucs turn it around soon. But I'm not overly optimistic about that.
Pittsburgh...great city, great teams in the Steelers and Penguins and then you have the sad sack Pirates.
A couple of thoughts.
First, Troy Tulowitzki is the best shortstop in baseball. Better than Jimmy Rollins, better than Hanley Ramirez, better than Derek Jeter, better than them all. Tulo just homered for for his third home run in as many games. He's picking up where he left off last September when he was Alesandra Ambrosio hot.
As for Pittsburgh, they are off to a nice 4-2 start. Don't worry, they'll rack up their record 19th consecutive season. They are just delaying the inevitable until early August. Anyway, its a beautiful, sunny day in Pittsburgh. There is a full house at amazing PNC Park. With the Pirates copious history, if this team ever got good, the fans would flock to the yard every day, not just Opening Day. Such a shame that the Pittsburgh Pirates have become a laughing stock. I remember when they begged for a new stadium, claiming they needed it to compete. PNC Park is, hard to believe, now in its 11th season and the stadium hasn't even sniffed a winning season. Very sad. But as someone who went to college in Pittsburgh and who loves the city, I hope the Bucs turn it around soon. But I'm not overly optimistic about that.
Pittsburgh...great city, great teams in the Steelers and Penguins and then you have the sad sack Pirates.
Props to Michael Kay
Too many announcers fail to mention, or make excuses for runners who don't hustle.
Today, while watching the Twins-Yankees game, Yanks announcer Michael Kay pointed out a lack of hustle by, of all people Jim Thome.
The veteran Thome, who is closing in on 600 home runs, belted a shot of A.J. Burnett (of course) to deep centerfield. Brett Gardner went back for it but couldn't reach it and the ball caromed off the wall back towards the infield. Thome, who got an RBI on the play, ended up on second.
A replay showed Thome jogging up the first base line, admiring his blast. Only when it hit off the wall did he pick up the pace.
Kay, on the Yes Network, pointed it out and said Thome should be on third base. He also called players not running hard out of the batters box "an epidemic."
Thome is a long time pro but this was not one of his finest moments.
I had a coach once tell me, "It doesn't take talent to hustle." That is why I like, and identify with, players who always hustle. Your Dustin Pedroia's and David Eckstein's of the world if you will.
Anyway, I'll cut Thome some slack. This time.
Today, while watching the Twins-Yankees game, Yanks announcer Michael Kay pointed out a lack of hustle by, of all people Jim Thome.
The veteran Thome, who is closing in on 600 home runs, belted a shot of A.J. Burnett (of course) to deep centerfield. Brett Gardner went back for it but couldn't reach it and the ball caromed off the wall back towards the infield. Thome, who got an RBI on the play, ended up on second.
A replay showed Thome jogging up the first base line, admiring his blast. Only when it hit off the wall did he pick up the pace.
Kay, on the Yes Network, pointed it out and said Thome should be on third base. He also called players not running hard out of the batters box "an epidemic."
Thome is a long time pro but this was not one of his finest moments.
I had a coach once tell me, "It doesn't take talent to hustle." That is why I like, and identify with, players who always hustle. Your Dustin Pedroia's and David Eckstein's of the world if you will.
Anyway, I'll cut Thome some slack. This time.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
A Positive Sawx Fan
My pal Jeff Andrews, die hard Red Sox fan and my original co-host on the Artificial Turf radio show, looks at the Sox slow start differently than most Boston fans.
In an e-mail he wrote of the Red Sox 0-4 start, "I guess if the Sox are going to win 100 this year, you can look at it like this: They’ve already gotten 4 of those pesky 62 losses out of the way."
When he said "pesky" I don't think he was talking about the legendary Johnny Pesky. By the way, Johnny Pesky is 91 and still a part of the Red Sox organization. He also was a career .307 hitter. He might also be the only person on the planet to have a foul pole named after him.
I hope Jeff e-mails me tomorrow about the Bostons 0-5 start.
In an e-mail he wrote of the Red Sox 0-4 start, "I guess if the Sox are going to win 100 this year, you can look at it like this: They’ve already gotten 4 of those pesky 62 losses out of the way."
When he said "pesky" I don't think he was talking about the legendary Johnny Pesky. By the way, Johnny Pesky is 91 and still a part of the Red Sox organization. He also was a career .307 hitter. He might also be the only person on the planet to have a foul pole named after him.
I hope Jeff e-mails me tomorrow about the Bostons 0-5 start.
Jeet-O-Meter #8
Derek Jeter had a single in four AB's last night. He now is 71 shy of 3,000 with 2,929 hits.
Unfortunately the Yankees coughed up the lead and lost to the Twins 5-4 in 10-innings.
The blame game? The bullpen trio of Rafael Soriano, Dave Robertson and Boone Logan.
CC Sabathia should have had an easy win. He left after 7 with a 4-0 lead only to have Soriano and Robertson implode.
Every season a team can look back at a few games they should have won and didn't and games they should have lost but won. Last night, the Yankees definitely lost a game they should have won.
Unfortunately the Yankees coughed up the lead and lost to the Twins 5-4 in 10-innings.
The blame game? The bullpen trio of Rafael Soriano, Dave Robertson and Boone Logan.
CC Sabathia should have had an easy win. He left after 7 with a 4-0 lead only to have Soriano and Robertson implode.
Every season a team can look back at a few games they should have won and didn't and games they should have lost but won. Last night, the Yankees definitely lost a game they should have won.
DL for UJ
The Rockies have placed top gun Ubaldo Jimenez on the disabled list with a cracked cuticle on his pitching thumb. I can hear Andy Cornell now saying, "A cracked cuticle puts him on the DL? Really? Oh, I hope it's not career ending."
The Rockies made the right move. Jimenez couldn't get any spin on his curveball on Opening Day and its best to get the situation resolved now than to wait and have it get worse. The biggest danger would be if he changed his grip and ended up with a sore arm.
So scratch Ubaldo from his next start in Pittsburgh. If you are a pitcher you would hate to miss pitching against the Bucs. Colorado called up Greg Reynolds from Colorado Springs to take Ubaldo's spot in the rotation.
The Rockies made the right move. Jimenez couldn't get any spin on his curveball on Opening Day and its best to get the situation resolved now than to wait and have it get worse. The biggest danger would be if he changed his grip and ended up with a sore arm.
So scratch Ubaldo from his next start in Pittsburgh. If you are a pitcher you would hate to miss pitching against the Bucs. Colorado called up Greg Reynolds from Colorado Springs to take Ubaldo's spot in the rotation.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Nice Example
Police are still searching for the two thugs who jumped a Giants fan from behind and beat him senseless in the Dodgers parking lot last week. The victim, 42-year old Bryan Stow is a father of two and remains in a medically induced coma with brain trauma. Doctors are hoping the swelling in his brain subsides which it hasn't so far.
Meanwhile, witnesses say that the two assailants had a 10-year old boy with them. I'm sure they are setting a fine example for the youngster and that he'll grow up to be a wonderful, solid citizen.
Meanwhile, witnesses say that the two assailants had a 10-year old boy with them. I'm sure they are setting a fine example for the youngster and that he'll grow up to be a wonderful, solid citizen.
You Know It's April When...
The Orioles are 4-0 and the Pirates and Royals 3-1.
How does the song go, "Riding high in April, shot down in May."
We'll see how long the good starts last but for fans of the Baltimores, KC and Pittsburgh it will be nice not to be mathematically eliminated in late April this year. If of course they continue to surprise this month. But I wouldn't start making ticket plans for October just yet.
How does the song go, "Riding high in April, shot down in May."
We'll see how long the good starts last but for fans of the Baltimores, KC and Pittsburgh it will be nice not to be mathematically eliminated in late April this year. If of course they continue to surprise this month. But I wouldn't start making ticket plans for October just yet.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Jeet-O-Meter #7
The Jeet-O-Meter began last season and is back as we count down Derek Jeter's hits as he heads towards 3,000.
Today, in the Yankees 10-6 win over the Tigers, Jeter went 2-4, bringing his career hit total to 2,928, leaving him 72 short of 3,000.
By the way, the Yankees took a 10-5 lead into the 9th inning. However, Boone Logan got into trouble and Joe Girardi had to bring in Mariano Rivera to close it out. It's not good when you have to use your closer because other guys can't keep the opponents quiet. It's early though so I suppose it's not too bad to get Rivera work. When this happens later in the season it can really put unnecessary strain and workload on your closer.
Today, in the Yankees 10-6 win over the Tigers, Jeter went 2-4, bringing his career hit total to 2,928, leaving him 72 short of 3,000.
By the way, the Yankees took a 10-5 lead into the 9th inning. However, Boone Logan got into trouble and Joe Girardi had to bring in Mariano Rivera to close it out. It's not good when you have to use your closer because other guys can't keep the opponents quiet. It's early though so I suppose it's not too bad to get Rivera work. When this happens later in the season it can really put unnecessary strain and workload on your closer.
Bats
I bought a new wood bat today for my Old Guy's baseball team. Our Opening Day is Sunday. If you are in the area and have absolutely nothing to do tomorrow morning, we'll be playing at 9 a.m. at Alameda High School. I won't count it out but I doubt there will be a flyover tomorrow like they had at Coors Field yesterday.
Anyway, this spring I've already broken two bats. These things are expensive and it pisses me off when a bat breaks so easily.
One of the bats I broke simply snapped at the handle. The other bat I broke was thick-handled with a big, heavy barrel. I wanted it just for BP. That started chipping after about 15 connections. So I taped up the barrel to keep the bat from chipping further. Then the handle cracked. The wood was crappy. Just a horrible bat.
Today I bought a new bat, a 33-length, 31 oz bat that I've been using in games the past two years. I just hope I got a decent piece of lumber because it stinks to no end when a bat breaks. Kiss $40 goodbye.
I wonder if Troy Tulowitzki or Derek Jeter worry about buying bats? I also bet they get the cream of the crop when it comes to wood and the crappy wood bats get sent to the saps known as the general public. By the way, no pun intended when I typed the word "saps."
Anyway, this spring I've already broken two bats. These things are expensive and it pisses me off when a bat breaks so easily.
One of the bats I broke simply snapped at the handle. The other bat I broke was thick-handled with a big, heavy barrel. I wanted it just for BP. That started chipping after about 15 connections. So I taped up the barrel to keep the bat from chipping further. Then the handle cracked. The wood was crappy. Just a horrible bat.
Today I bought a new bat, a 33-length, 31 oz bat that I've been using in games the past two years. I just hope I got a decent piece of lumber because it stinks to no end when a bat breaks. Kiss $40 goodbye.
I wonder if Troy Tulowitzki or Derek Jeter worry about buying bats? I also bet they get the cream of the crop when it comes to wood and the crappy wood bats get sent to the saps known as the general public. By the way, no pun intended when I typed the word "saps."
Donnie the Skip
I'm watching the Giants-Dodgers game on Fox.
I find myself pulling for the Dodgers simply because Don Mattingly is the manager. He still looks strange in a Dodgers uniform. But I'm guessing that a lot of Yankees fans are hoping the Dodgers do well for Donnie Baseball's sake. After all, he was a great Yankee...and Yankee fans never forget.
Looking forward to seeing the Dodgers on Tuesday and Wednesday when they come to Coors Field.
I find myself pulling for the Dodgers simply because Don Mattingly is the manager. He still looks strange in a Dodgers uniform. But I'm guessing that a lot of Yankees fans are hoping the Dodgers do well for Donnie Baseball's sake. After all, he was a great Yankee...and Yankee fans never forget.
Looking forward to seeing the Dodgers on Tuesday and Wednesday when they come to Coors Field.
Kyle Drabek
Well, it looks like Kyle Drabek is a keeper for the Blue Jays. He won his first Major League game today, a 6-1 verdict over the Twins. He took a no-hitter into the 6th inning. He went 7 innings total, allowing 1 hit with 3 walks and 7 strikeouts.
His dad Doug was a very good big league pitcher who started with the Yankees. I wasn't happy when he was traded, along with Brian Fisher to the Pirates for an over-the-hill Rick Rhoden and an ineffective Cecilio Guante.
The elder Drabek won 7 games for the Yankees in his rookie season of 1986. After being traded he won 148 more Major League games, a perfect example of how the Yankees did business in the 1980's and into the 90's. Rhoden went 28-22 for the Yankees. Not terrible but Drabek should never have been dealt.
Anyway, back to his kid, he looks like he'll be a pretty good pitcher in his own right. But he still needs 154 wins to catch pop.
Meanwhile, the Jays are off to a 2-0 start. But then again, they usually always get off to a decent start and then the old June swoon hits and they are finished.
His dad Doug was a very good big league pitcher who started with the Yankees. I wasn't happy when he was traded, along with Brian Fisher to the Pirates for an over-the-hill Rick Rhoden and an ineffective Cecilio Guante.
The elder Drabek won 7 games for the Yankees in his rookie season of 1986. After being traded he won 148 more Major League games, a perfect example of how the Yankees did business in the 1980's and into the 90's. Rhoden went 28-22 for the Yankees. Not terrible but Drabek should never have been dealt.
Anyway, back to his kid, he looks like he'll be a pretty good pitcher in his own right. But he still needs 154 wins to catch pop.
Meanwhile, the Jays are off to a 2-0 start. But then again, they usually always get off to a decent start and then the old June swoon hits and they are finished.
Brutal in LA
Some people don't deserve to breath the air we do. They would make a better contribution to society if they fell off a cliff.
A fan, who wore San Francisco Giants gear to Dodger Stadium, was viciously and savagely attacked in the parking lot following the Giants 2-1 Opening Night win over the Dodgers.
The man, despite trying to distance himself from these thugs according to reports, was hit by two so-called Dodger fans and hit his head on the pavement. The assailants then proceeded to kick the crap out of the guy before running off like the cowards they are.
The man is in critical but stable condition and police are looking for witnesses and help in finding the attackers.
I hope they find these parasites and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law, which many times is way too soft on crimes like this. The best thing would be if they caught these guys, sent them to an ass-raping prison and they die from rectal bleeding.
As for the Giants fan in the hospital, may he have a quick and full recovery.
A fan, who wore San Francisco Giants gear to Dodger Stadium, was viciously and savagely attacked in the parking lot following the Giants 2-1 Opening Night win over the Dodgers.
The man, despite trying to distance himself from these thugs according to reports, was hit by two so-called Dodger fans and hit his head on the pavement. The assailants then proceeded to kick the crap out of the guy before running off like the cowards they are.
The man is in critical but stable condition and police are looking for witnesses and help in finding the attackers.
I hope they find these parasites and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law, which many times is way too soft on crimes like this. The best thing would be if they caught these guys, sent them to an ass-raping prison and they die from rectal bleeding.
As for the Giants fan in the hospital, may he have a quick and full recovery.
"Oh Help"
It was a fun day at Coors Field yesterday except for the final result if you are a Rockies fan.
The pre-game ceremonies for Opening Day were spectacular as always and the flyover most impressive. Actually, while the flyovers are dramatic, I worry about some type of disaster associated with it. It looks like those planes can easily clip their wings and that would be an awful thing.
Anyway, it was a beautiful day in front of a full house and it was great to have baseball back.
Of course when the game went extra innings, Andy Cornell, sitting next to me in the press box wasn't pleased. It's hard enough for him to sit through 9 innings never mind extra innings. Since it was a Friday night and I had no evening plans and didn't have to get up real early the next day, I was hoping for an 18-inning game. My longest in-person extra inning game was 17-innings at the old Yankee Stadium. The Yanks beat the Indians that night. It ended around 1 a.m. I was hoping to break that yesterday at Coors Field.
When the Rockies made their last out in the 9th to send it to extra innings, Andy said, "Oh help."
Two innings later it was time to leave as the Diamondbacks posted a 7-6 win over Colorado, thus ruining Opening Day for many. Although, no matter what happens, you can't really ruin Opening Day though, can you?
The pre-game ceremonies for Opening Day were spectacular as always and the flyover most impressive. Actually, while the flyovers are dramatic, I worry about some type of disaster associated with it. It looks like those planes can easily clip their wings and that would be an awful thing.
Anyway, it was a beautiful day in front of a full house and it was great to have baseball back.
Of course when the game went extra innings, Andy Cornell, sitting next to me in the press box wasn't pleased. It's hard enough for him to sit through 9 innings never mind extra innings. Since it was a Friday night and I had no evening plans and didn't have to get up real early the next day, I was hoping for an 18-inning game. My longest in-person extra inning game was 17-innings at the old Yankee Stadium. The Yanks beat the Indians that night. It ended around 1 a.m. I was hoping to break that yesterday at Coors Field.
When the Rockies made their last out in the 9th to send it to extra innings, Andy said, "Oh help."
Two innings later it was time to leave as the Diamondbacks posted a 7-6 win over Colorado, thus ruining Opening Day for many. Although, no matter what happens, you can't really ruin Opening Day though, can you?
Friday, April 1, 2011
30-Mil?
Did you see the line for Albert Pujols yesterday?
Pujols went 0-5 and hit into 3 double plays. And he wants 30-million a year?
Obviously it is only one game but it has to be one of Albert's worst games ever. Still, I don't care if he hits 80 homers this year and knocks in 200. I wouldn't pay him that kind of money if I were the Cardinals. After all, you do have to play other players.
The Padres rallied to win, by the way, 5-3 in 11-innings. Last year nobody gave much thought to the Padres and they were heading to the post-season until faltering down the stretch. This year, not too many prognosticators are picking the Padres but I have a feeling they'll be better than advertised again.
Pujols went 0-5 and hit into 3 double plays. And he wants 30-million a year?
Obviously it is only one game but it has to be one of Albert's worst games ever. Still, I don't care if he hits 80 homers this year and knocks in 200. I wouldn't pay him that kind of money if I were the Cardinals. After all, you do have to play other players.
The Padres rallied to win, by the way, 5-3 in 11-innings. Last year nobody gave much thought to the Padres and they were heading to the post-season until faltering down the stretch. This year, not too many prognosticators are picking the Padres but I have a feeling they'll be better than advertised again.
Go Rocks
Finally, after a miserable winter, and all winters are miserable, baseball returns to Coors Field today as the Rockies host the Diamondbacks.
The weather will be beautiful and Coors Field, one of the nicest parks in the game, will be shining with 2.5 million dollars in improvements.
This will be my 13th consecutive Rockies home opener although my most memorable opening game for the Rockies came in 1993 at Shea Stadium. It was the first game in Rockies history and I went simply to witness baseball history. Dwight Gooden and the Mets shut out the Rockies that day 3-0 so it wasn't a happy first game for Colorado.
I've always felt that Major League Baseball did a disservice to Rockies fans in 93. They should have played the first game in franchise history in front of the home fans. There is no way that game should have been played in New York. But, I'm glad they did play there because I got to see it.
The weather will be beautiful and Coors Field, one of the nicest parks in the game, will be shining with 2.5 million dollars in improvements.
This will be my 13th consecutive Rockies home opener although my most memorable opening game for the Rockies came in 1993 at Shea Stadium. It was the first game in Rockies history and I went simply to witness baseball history. Dwight Gooden and the Mets shut out the Rockies that day 3-0 so it wasn't a happy first game for Colorado.
I've always felt that Major League Baseball did a disservice to Rockies fans in 93. They should have played the first game in franchise history in front of the home fans. There is no way that game should have been played in New York. But, I'm glad they did play there because I got to see it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
