My radio paison Casey Bloyer was nice enough to hit me some grounders today at Bible Park in Denver. It's a nice big park with a baseball field. While the overall park is beautiful, the diamond...let's say needs a little work.
Since my old guy's team didn't play on Sunday due to the Memorial Day weekend, I needed to limber up the arm and take some ground balls.
We also had another home run derby and this time Caseman won. The final tally? CB 1 BR 0.
So, as you can tell, it wasn't a Josh Hamilton-like 2008 All Star Game Home Run Derby performance but a win is a win and I owe Casey a soda before the show Sunday night.
Casey came close on a couple of occasions to hitting more out. Me? I didn't come close all day. And the fences aren't exactly Petco Park dimensions.
So Casey and me are tied at one home run derby win apiece. I'm sure if you are reading this you are anxiously awaiting HR Derby #3. Maybe we could, and should, move it to a little league field.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Pale Hose Own Fenway
Had an enjoyable night watching the White Sox outslug the Red Sox 10-7 at Fenway Park tonight. It really wasn't that close. Chicago built a 10-1 advantage before the Red Sox scored a few "oh by the way" runs late.
Here's something that surprised me. The White Sox have won 6 in a row at Fenway. The Bostons are a pretty good home team and Chicago isn't that good away from home. But they seem to like playing in Fenway.
Here's something that surprised me. The White Sox have won 6 in a row at Fenway. The Bostons are a pretty good home team and Chicago isn't that good away from home. But they seem to like playing in Fenway.
The Battlin' Bucs
Normally I crack on the Pirates and deservedly so.
But this post is not to rip the Bucs but to praise them.
Tonight they got past the Mets 5-1. No big deal. A lot of teams are beating the Mets.
But Pittsburgh is now 25-28. While not much to brag about there this is a team that hasn't had a winning season since 1992. I don't think they'll do it but I'd like to see them make a run at winning 82 games.
Clint Hurdle is doing a fine job as manager and so is pitching coach Ray Searage. Searage, who I got to know when I was broadcasting minor league ball, must be happy with his starters. In the last 12 games, Pirates starters have allowed just two runs or less. Not bad. Go Buccos!
But this post is not to rip the Bucs but to praise them.
Tonight they got past the Mets 5-1. No big deal. A lot of teams are beating the Mets.
But Pittsburgh is now 25-28. While not much to brag about there this is a team that hasn't had a winning season since 1992. I don't think they'll do it but I'd like to see them make a run at winning 82 games.
Clint Hurdle is doing a fine job as manager and so is pitching coach Ray Searage. Searage, who I got to know when I was broadcasting minor league ball, must be happy with his starters. In the last 12 games, Pirates starters have allowed just two runs or less. Not bad. Go Buccos!
Monday, May 30, 2011
Snakes Alive!
Anyone else look at the standings today and do a double-take when looking at the National League West standings?
The Diamondbacks, winners of 6 in a row and 12 of 13 have jumped into first place, a 1/2 game better than the Giants.
It has been a terrific run for Arizona. We all knew they could hit the ball all over the park but the defense and pitching were major question marks. They are getting great pitching and making the plays in the field.
It is said that a team takes on the personality of their manager. Kirk Gibson, as a player, turned the country club culture around when he went to the Dodgers in 1988 and led them to the World Series title. As a manager, the hard-nosed, old school Gibson has his team taking on that persona.
While a lot of people thought the Giants and Rockies would be a two team race, now you can add the Diamondbacks to that mix. If the season ended today, you would have to make Gibson the NL Manager of the Year, no?
Again, it's way too early for that but the Diamondbacks have been a pleasant surprise. Unless you reside in the NL West.
The Diamondbacks, winners of 6 in a row and 12 of 13 have jumped into first place, a 1/2 game better than the Giants.
It has been a terrific run for Arizona. We all knew they could hit the ball all over the park but the defense and pitching were major question marks. They are getting great pitching and making the plays in the field.
It is said that a team takes on the personality of their manager. Kirk Gibson, as a player, turned the country club culture around when he went to the Dodgers in 1988 and led them to the World Series title. As a manager, the hard-nosed, old school Gibson has his team taking on that persona.
While a lot of people thought the Giants and Rockies would be a two team race, now you can add the Diamondbacks to that mix. If the season ended today, you would have to make Gibson the NL Manager of the Year, no?
Again, it's way too early for that but the Diamondbacks have been a pleasant surprise. Unless you reside in the NL West.
Memorial Day
When I was a kid, Memorial Day meant baseball. Usually doubleheaders. Scheduled doubleheaders. Now the only doubleheaders are to make up for rain-outs and they frequently are day/night twin bills. Teams can't give people two for the price of one.
Anyway, as I got a little older, I learned of the true meaning of Memorial Day. I really think hard about the brave people who put their lives on the line for us. That is why you and I can watch baseball or do anything else in this great country. I appreciate those who served and continue to serve our country. They are braver then I'll ever be and I thank every one of them, past and present, from the bottom of my heart.
As for baseball, my most vivid Memorial Day memory took place on this poignant holiday at Yankee Stadium on May 27th, 1991.
The Yankees were pretty bad those days in what Yankee fans refer to the Stump Merrill era. While Stump was apparently a loyal and very good minor league manager, that wasn't the case in the Majors. He also didn't have the horses. He had Don Mattingly and a bunch of stiffs.
This particular day, the Bostons were in town. The Red Sox were in first place and jumped out to a 5-0 lead by the 5th inning. It didn't look good for the Yankees on a most beautiful, sunny, warm day.
The Yanks chipped away and won it in the bottom of the 9th on a 3-run homer off Jeff Reardon by Mel Hall, 6-5. It was Hall's second homer of the day and I can still see the trajectory of his line drive blast to right. I was sitting with my friend Jimmy down the third base line about three rows from the field. As soon as Hall hit it the place erupted.
It was probably the high point of the season for the Yankees who finished a dismal 71-91. The Red Sox finished 7-games behind the Blue Jays.
As for Mel Hall? Never a very popular player among his teammates, he's been in prison since June of 2009 for raping underage girls. He was sentenced to 45 years in the slammer and he won't be eligible for parole until late in 2031 when he'll be 70. That's a long time to think about his horrible and despicable acts.
But on one Memorial Day Monday, Mel Hall heard the cheers. I wonder if he ever thinks of that glorious afternoon in the Bronx as he rots away in a prison cell.
Anyway, as I got a little older, I learned of the true meaning of Memorial Day. I really think hard about the brave people who put their lives on the line for us. That is why you and I can watch baseball or do anything else in this great country. I appreciate those who served and continue to serve our country. They are braver then I'll ever be and I thank every one of them, past and present, from the bottom of my heart.
As for baseball, my most vivid Memorial Day memory took place on this poignant holiday at Yankee Stadium on May 27th, 1991.
The Yankees were pretty bad those days in what Yankee fans refer to the Stump Merrill era. While Stump was apparently a loyal and very good minor league manager, that wasn't the case in the Majors. He also didn't have the horses. He had Don Mattingly and a bunch of stiffs.
This particular day, the Bostons were in town. The Red Sox were in first place and jumped out to a 5-0 lead by the 5th inning. It didn't look good for the Yankees on a most beautiful, sunny, warm day.
The Yanks chipped away and won it in the bottom of the 9th on a 3-run homer off Jeff Reardon by Mel Hall, 6-5. It was Hall's second homer of the day and I can still see the trajectory of his line drive blast to right. I was sitting with my friend Jimmy down the third base line about three rows from the field. As soon as Hall hit it the place erupted.
It was probably the high point of the season for the Yankees who finished a dismal 71-91. The Red Sox finished 7-games behind the Blue Jays.
As for Mel Hall? Never a very popular player among his teammates, he's been in prison since June of 2009 for raping underage girls. He was sentenced to 45 years in the slammer and he won't be eligible for parole until late in 2031 when he'll be 70. That's a long time to think about his horrible and despicable acts.
But on one Memorial Day Monday, Mel Hall heard the cheers. I wonder if he ever thinks of that glorious afternoon in the Bronx as he rots away in a prison cell.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
No Mo In '14?
Read a piece in the paper today (NY Post) that Yankees great Mariano Rivera went to the Mexico-Ecuador soccer match at Qwest Field in Seattle yesterday afternoon prior to the Yanks-Mariners tilt that night at Safeco Field.
OK, not my first choice if I was in Seattle but I guess Mariano enjoyed the high scoring 1-1 tie.
Mariano also said that he wanted to go to the World Cup in Brazil in 2014. OK, I guess he likes soccer, or futbol to the rest of the world. Then it hit me, like a wayward A.J. Burnett fastball. The World Cup is played in the summer. Don't the Yankees also play in the summer?
In 2014 Mariano will be 44. The thought that he might actually be retired by then is still difficult to fathom. He still looks great (not last night when he got a rare loss in the M's 5-4, 12-inning win) and it seems like he could pitch forever. So Mariano not playing in 2014? NOOOOOO!
It will be tough to take for Yankee fans when the great Mariano calls it a career.
OK, not my first choice if I was in Seattle but I guess Mariano enjoyed the high scoring 1-1 tie.
Mariano also said that he wanted to go to the World Cup in Brazil in 2014. OK, I guess he likes soccer, or futbol to the rest of the world. Then it hit me, like a wayward A.J. Burnett fastball. The World Cup is played in the summer. Don't the Yankees also play in the summer?
In 2014 Mariano will be 44. The thought that he might actually be retired by then is still difficult to fathom. He still looks great (not last night when he got a rare loss in the M's 5-4, 12-inning win) and it seems like he could pitch forever. So Mariano not playing in 2014? NOOOOOO!
It will be tough to take for Yankee fans when the great Mariano calls it a career.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Crawfords
Some of you might be thinking this post is about the legendary Negro League team, the Pittsburgh Crawfords.
Good guess but you are wrong.
This was a good week to be named Crawford.
Carl Crawford is finally hitting for the Red Sox. He's 9 for his last 12 and is playing like...well, like Carl Crawford.
The other Crawford is Brandon Crawford. Who? Brandon Crawford, just called up to Giants, belted a grand slam in his big league debut in San Fran's 5-4 win at Milwaukee. I'm not impressed, let's see him do it again!
Maybe I'll post something about the Pittsburgh Crawfords soon.
Good guess but you are wrong.
This was a good week to be named Crawford.
Carl Crawford is finally hitting for the Red Sox. He's 9 for his last 12 and is playing like...well, like Carl Crawford.
The other Crawford is Brandon Crawford. Who? Brandon Crawford, just called up to Giants, belted a grand slam in his big league debut in San Fran's 5-4 win at Milwaukee. I'm not impressed, let's see him do it again!
Maybe I'll post something about the Pittsburgh Crawfords soon.
The Kid...Update
Bad news for Gary Carter.
The tumors on his brain appear to be malignant. They'll devise a medical plan of attack soon.
Quite upsetting to learn of this. While I was never a fan of the Expos or Mets, how could you not like what Carter brought to the park every day?
Come on Gary, use that enthusiasm, desire and positive attitude to defeat this. He can do it.
Keep sending those thoughts and prayers to Gary C.
The tumors on his brain appear to be malignant. They'll devise a medical plan of attack soon.
Quite upsetting to learn of this. While I was never a fan of the Expos or Mets, how could you not like what Carter brought to the park every day?
Come on Gary, use that enthusiasm, desire and positive attitude to defeat this. He can do it.
Keep sending those thoughts and prayers to Gary C.
Idaho Sportscaster Of The Year
My good friend Bob Behler will be going to the Cardinals-Rockies game with me tonight. Bob is the play-by-play voice of Boise State football and basketball and does a bunch of sports reporting in Boise.
He was recently named Idaho Sportscaster of the Year. Congrats to Bobby B!
I first met Behler (pronounced Bee-ler) when he was announcing Bucknell University basketball and I was announcing Army basketball. Gotta love the Patriot League.
He's also announced minor league baseball for the Chattanooga Lookouts and the Williamsport Cubs.
After Bucknell, Bob moved on to Massachusetts and became the football and basketball voice of the Minutemen before heading to Boise a few years ago.
Anyway, I'll be sitting in the stands tonight with Behler since Bob, this highly accomplished broadcaster was denied a press credential by the Rockies.
Is he acutally covering the game? No. Is the press box so crowded that there is no room to accomodate him? No. Actually, the press box is never full, except for playoffs or the World Series. Even Opening Day the Coors Field press box isn't full.
So why was he denied a press credential? I don't know and I don't care to get into a scrap with the Rockies p.r. people. But I was hoping they would extend a professional courtesy and allow him to take in the game in the press box. To me that would have been the right thing to do. But, hey, I don't make the rules over there.
He was recently named Idaho Sportscaster of the Year. Congrats to Bobby B!
I first met Behler (pronounced Bee-ler) when he was announcing Bucknell University basketball and I was announcing Army basketball. Gotta love the Patriot League.
He's also announced minor league baseball for the Chattanooga Lookouts and the Williamsport Cubs.
After Bucknell, Bob moved on to Massachusetts and became the football and basketball voice of the Minutemen before heading to Boise a few years ago.
Anyway, I'll be sitting in the stands tonight with Behler since Bob, this highly accomplished broadcaster was denied a press credential by the Rockies.
Is he acutally covering the game? No. Is the press box so crowded that there is no room to accomodate him? No. Actually, the press box is never full, except for playoffs or the World Series. Even Opening Day the Coors Field press box isn't full.
So why was he denied a press credential? I don't know and I don't care to get into a scrap with the Rockies p.r. people. But I was hoping they would extend a professional courtesy and allow him to take in the game in the press box. To me that would have been the right thing to do. But, hey, I don't make the rules over there.
Reggie
MLB Network today had a feature on Reggie Jackson. He's one of those rare players that you really miss when they retire.
Reggie was excitement period, either hitting a home run or striking out. He had charisma and sometimes you loved the guy and sometimes you hated him...sometimes in the same game!
Anyway, watching highlights of Reggie on TV made me recall a story that my friend Rick Schultz told me. Rick was broadcasting for the Norwich Navigators a few years ago, a Yankees farm team. Reggie, as a Yankee advisor or whatever he does, was in Connecticut to see the minor league club.
Reggie was in the clubhouse this particular day holding court. Finally, one player asked Jackson, "Hey Reggie, did you play the game?"
Reggie was stunned. He looked at the kid and said incredulously, "Did I play the game? You're asking if I played the game? Did I play the game...I WAS THE GAME!"
That's Reggie for you.
I miss watching him play. Wait, let me amend that. I miss watching him hit. Fielding? Well, let's just say he made it to the Hall of Fame because of his bat, not his glove.
Reggie was excitement period, either hitting a home run or striking out. He had charisma and sometimes you loved the guy and sometimes you hated him...sometimes in the same game!
Anyway, watching highlights of Reggie on TV made me recall a story that my friend Rick Schultz told me. Rick was broadcasting for the Norwich Navigators a few years ago, a Yankees farm team. Reggie, as a Yankee advisor or whatever he does, was in Connecticut to see the minor league club.
Reggie was in the clubhouse this particular day holding court. Finally, one player asked Jackson, "Hey Reggie, did you play the game?"
Reggie was stunned. He looked at the kid and said incredulously, "Did I play the game? You're asking if I played the game? Did I play the game...I WAS THE GAME!"
That's Reggie for you.
I miss watching him play. Wait, let me amend that. I miss watching him hit. Fielding? Well, let's just say he made it to the Hall of Fame because of his bat, not his glove.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Paul Splittorff
Tough blow to baseball with the passing yesterday of former Royals lefty and broadcaster Paul Splittorff at the age of 64 from skin cancer.
The Royals all-time leader in wins with 166, I remember Splittorff for two things. He was always really tough on the Yankees. I hated seeing him and Larry Gura pitch against the Yanks because lefties caused them problems. He was real good on the hill.
The other thing I remember him for was my one and only meeting with him in 1999 at the old Denver Fieldhouse. He was there to broadcast a basketball game for Missouri-Kansas City against the DU Pioneers, the team I was announcing for at the time. Talking to him prior to the broadcast, we exchanged basketball information before the conversation turned to baseball. He was awfully nice and friendly and it was easy to see why he was so well liked in Kansas City.
I never heard him broadcast but I understand he was just as good an announcer as he was a pitcher. Crummy news indeed.
The Royals all-time leader in wins with 166, I remember Splittorff for two things. He was always really tough on the Yankees. I hated seeing him and Larry Gura pitch against the Yanks because lefties caused them problems. He was real good on the hill.
The other thing I remember him for was my one and only meeting with him in 1999 at the old Denver Fieldhouse. He was there to broadcast a basketball game for Missouri-Kansas City against the DU Pioneers, the team I was announcing for at the time. Talking to him prior to the broadcast, we exchanged basketball information before the conversation turned to baseball. He was awfully nice and friendly and it was easy to see why he was so well liked in Kansas City.
I never heard him broadcast but I understand he was just as good an announcer as he was a pitcher. Crummy news indeed.
Hernandez In Fine Form
As I write this, I'm watching the Mets-Cubs game at beautiful Wrigley Field. Well, not so beautiful today. It's freezing and miserable in Chicago.
Anyway, even though I hate the team, I love the Mets announcers, both Wayne Hagin and Howie Rose on the radio and Gary Cohen and Keith Hernandez on the TV side.
Hernanez is kind of salty today, in a good way. I love his candidness.
Kevin Burkhart, the Mets roving reporter, did a report and said that Scott Cousins was upset that he injured Buster Posey in last night's Florida-San Fran game. Burkhart added that Cousins said he couldn't sleep last night.
Enter Hernandez (and I'm paraphrasing here), "Come on Kevin. It was a clean play. The catcher was blocking the plate. Stuff happens. Cousins couldn't sleep? Geez. I wouldn't have missed a minute of sleep."
Later he called Cubs pitcher a "bandwagoner" after he was mad at a missed play then happy at a subsequent double play.
After a shot of the Cubs announcers, Bob Brenley and Len Kasper, wearing wool Cubs hats in the press box, Hernandez said, "Can you imagine if we did that. We'd be roasted by Mushnick and Raissman (NY Post and NY Daily News media critics)."
Cohen added, "Roasted AND toasted."
If you haven't heard Hernandez you need to do so. I love his cranky, I don't care what I say, personality and attitude.
Hey, he can say what he wants, "He's Keith Hernandez!" (Seinfeld reference there!)
Anyway, even though I hate the team, I love the Mets announcers, both Wayne Hagin and Howie Rose on the radio and Gary Cohen and Keith Hernandez on the TV side.
Hernanez is kind of salty today, in a good way. I love his candidness.
Kevin Burkhart, the Mets roving reporter, did a report and said that Scott Cousins was upset that he injured Buster Posey in last night's Florida-San Fran game. Burkhart added that Cousins said he couldn't sleep last night.
Enter Hernandez (and I'm paraphrasing here), "Come on Kevin. It was a clean play. The catcher was blocking the plate. Stuff happens. Cousins couldn't sleep? Geez. I wouldn't have missed a minute of sleep."
Later he called Cubs pitcher a "bandwagoner" after he was mad at a missed play then happy at a subsequent double play.
After a shot of the Cubs announcers, Bob Brenley and Len Kasper, wearing wool Cubs hats in the press box, Hernandez said, "Can you imagine if we did that. We'd be roasted by Mushnick and Raissman (NY Post and NY Daily News media critics)."
Cohen added, "Roasted AND toasted."
If you haven't heard Hernandez you need to do so. I love his cranky, I don't care what I say, personality and attitude.
Hey, he can say what he wants, "He's Keith Hernandez!" (Seinfeld reference there!)
Tragedy At Coors
Very sad to learn of the death of a 27-year old fan today from injuries suffered at Coors Field Tuesday night.
Robert Seamans from Pueblo fell 20 feet from a staircase railing and landed on his head. He was declared brain dead almost immediately after the accident and his organs were donated.
Apparently Seamans was sliding down the railing, lost his balance and fell to the concrete. Simply a terrible lapse in judgement and it cost him his life.
We've all done stupid things in our lives. Most of the time though we don't pay the ultimate price.
Hopefully others will learn a lesson and my prayers go out to his family and friends. Just a real sad story and one that could have been avoided.
Robert Seamans from Pueblo fell 20 feet from a staircase railing and landed on his head. He was declared brain dead almost immediately after the accident and his organs were donated.
Apparently Seamans was sliding down the railing, lost his balance and fell to the concrete. Simply a terrible lapse in judgement and it cost him his life.
We've all done stupid things in our lives. Most of the time though we don't pay the ultimate price.
Hopefully others will learn a lesson and my prayers go out to his family and friends. Just a real sad story and one that could have been avoided.
Buster Broken
A collision at home plate last night has apparently cost Giants catcher Buster Posey the rest of the season.
Marlins outfielder Scott Cousins tried to score and the crash at the plate broke Posey's left ankle and tore ligaments in his knee. While technically a clean play, I've long lobbied against runners crashing into a stationary catcher when he's fielding a ball.
A runner should slide straight into the plate or slide around it and tag it with his hand. Just barreling over a defenseless catcher can has serious consequences as it did last night for Posey.
When will a catcher get his neck broken due to a forearm from a guy with a head os steam?
Here is what I wrote last April regarding plays at home plate (a mysteriouswalker flashback!)
Monday, April 19, 2010
The Need To Slide
If I were the commissioner of baseball, and I should be (plus I'd work for less than Bud Selig's 18-mil per season. Really, that's what he makes), I would institute a rule change immediately. The rule would protect the catcher.
We see many highlights of plays at home plate where the runner, who will be out by a mile, tries to run over the catcher to dislodge the ball. It's an exciting play for sure but very dangerous. That a catcher, to my knowledge, hasn't had his neck broken is a miracle. With the NFL getting serious about head injuries it's time for some preventative action by baseball. I'm afraid it's going to take a catastrophic injury to a catcher before baseball implements a rules change.
My rule change would be simple. No more barrelling into a catcher when he is attempting to make a tag. The runner has to slide in an effort to score. If the catcher is blocking the plate, a runner still had to slide to try to score. He can slide through the catcher's legs or slide past the catcher and attempt to tag the plate with his hand. Whatever the case is, a runner has to try to score. Any attempt to run over the catcher by nailing him in the head with a forearm blow will be met with immediate ejection and an automatic out.
Also, a catcher can't block the plate until he has possession of the ball. If a catcher sticks his leg out before he has the ball then the runner is automatically safe.
I think these subtle rule changes will avert injuries. You don't see runners going in head high on a tag play on the bases. Why should it be different at home plate? This dangerous play of steamrolling a catcher needs to be taken out of the game.
Then, a week later I wrote this post...
Monday, April 26, 2010
Cheap Shot Tex
Last week, I wrote a post called "The Need To Slide." I took issue with players steamrolling a catcher with the sole intent to dislodge the ball from the catcher by dislodging the head of the catcher. I believe baseball needs to adapt a rule that prohibits players from taking gratuitous cheap shots on a catcher, especially a defenseless one.
That played out on Friday night when Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira, 6-3, 225, barrelled into Angels catcher Bobby Wilson. Wilson was in front of the plate on the first base side awaiting the throw from right field. Teixeira, with a full head of steam, had plenty of room to slide. The plate was not blocked. He would have scored easily with a slide or even standing up. But he ran right at Wilson and with both forearms delivered a shot to the unprotected head of Wilson. Wilson suffered a concussion and an ankle injury as he was bent backwards the way humans are not supposed to bend. As bad as it was, it could have been worse for Wilson.
We don't see guys go after the head of an infielder on a play on the bases. So why is it alright for a runner to go straight for the catcher's head?
A runner should be made to slide to try and score. This running full speed into the head of a catcher is a disaster waiting to happen.
Until the rules are altered regarding collisions at home plate, it is open season on backstops.
With Posey's agent, Jeff Berry, calling for some type of reform, maybe this will be the injury to get things in motion and help keep catchers safe from getting destroyed.
Marlins outfielder Scott Cousins tried to score and the crash at the plate broke Posey's left ankle and tore ligaments in his knee. While technically a clean play, I've long lobbied against runners crashing into a stationary catcher when he's fielding a ball.
A runner should slide straight into the plate or slide around it and tag it with his hand. Just barreling over a defenseless catcher can has serious consequences as it did last night for Posey.
When will a catcher get his neck broken due to a forearm from a guy with a head os steam?
Here is what I wrote last April regarding plays at home plate (a mysteriouswalker flashback!)
Monday, April 19, 2010
The Need To Slide
If I were the commissioner of baseball, and I should be (plus I'd work for less than Bud Selig's 18-mil per season. Really, that's what he makes), I would institute a rule change immediately. The rule would protect the catcher.
We see many highlights of plays at home plate where the runner, who will be out by a mile, tries to run over the catcher to dislodge the ball. It's an exciting play for sure but very dangerous. That a catcher, to my knowledge, hasn't had his neck broken is a miracle. With the NFL getting serious about head injuries it's time for some preventative action by baseball. I'm afraid it's going to take a catastrophic injury to a catcher before baseball implements a rules change.
My rule change would be simple. No more barrelling into a catcher when he is attempting to make a tag. The runner has to slide in an effort to score. If the catcher is blocking the plate, a runner still had to slide to try to score. He can slide through the catcher's legs or slide past the catcher and attempt to tag the plate with his hand. Whatever the case is, a runner has to try to score. Any attempt to run over the catcher by nailing him in the head with a forearm blow will be met with immediate ejection and an automatic out.
Also, a catcher can't block the plate until he has possession of the ball. If a catcher sticks his leg out before he has the ball then the runner is automatically safe.
I think these subtle rule changes will avert injuries. You don't see runners going in head high on a tag play on the bases. Why should it be different at home plate? This dangerous play of steamrolling a catcher needs to be taken out of the game.
Then, a week later I wrote this post...
Monday, April 26, 2010
Cheap Shot Tex
Last week, I wrote a post called "The Need To Slide." I took issue with players steamrolling a catcher with the sole intent to dislodge the ball from the catcher by dislodging the head of the catcher. I believe baseball needs to adapt a rule that prohibits players from taking gratuitous cheap shots on a catcher, especially a defenseless one.
That played out on Friday night when Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira, 6-3, 225, barrelled into Angels catcher Bobby Wilson. Wilson was in front of the plate on the first base side awaiting the throw from right field. Teixeira, with a full head of steam, had plenty of room to slide. The plate was not blocked. He would have scored easily with a slide or even standing up. But he ran right at Wilson and with both forearms delivered a shot to the unprotected head of Wilson. Wilson suffered a concussion and an ankle injury as he was bent backwards the way humans are not supposed to bend. As bad as it was, it could have been worse for Wilson.
We don't see guys go after the head of an infielder on a play on the bases. So why is it alright for a runner to go straight for the catcher's head?
A runner should be made to slide to try and score. This running full speed into the head of a catcher is a disaster waiting to happen.
Until the rules are altered regarding collisions at home plate, it is open season on backstops.
With Posey's agent, Jeff Berry, calling for some type of reform, maybe this will be the injury to get things in motion and help keep catchers safe from getting destroyed.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
A Tale of Two Guys Named Denny
On one of the morning TV shows today they showed the picture of a moving train. I had the sound down on the set but imagined the train whistle blowing.
Then I thought of former Major League pitcher Denny Neagle who could do a hilarious impression of a train whistle. Then I wondered if he's done that train whistle imitation lately. When was the last time? Who knows? All I know is that Neagle has vanished from sight and I speculate what he is up to these days.
When Neagle pitched for the Rockies, I was frequently in the Coors Field clubhouse getting postgame sound. Not my favorite thing to do in sports but part of the job. Neagle was always nice and cordial to me. I would watch him interact with people and he was a funny, fun loving guy. He didn't pitch all that well for the Rockies but he didn't seem to take it out on anyone else.
Then it all unraveled in November of 2004 when the injury plagued pitcher was arrested for soliciting a prostitute in Denver. He later pleaded guilty to the charge. From that point on it seems like things went downhill for the affable lefthander. It didn't help that the prostitute in question looked like an ugly, meth-addicted man. That just led to punchlines and jokes. His marriage ended shortly after and he was later arrested for DUI. I have an easier time forgiving him for the prostitute scandal than the DUI. He could have killed someone driving drunk but the incident with the prostitute didn't harm me or anyone other than his wife and family. Which is pretty bad too.
But under the assumption that everyone deserves a second chance, it would be nice if that was afforded to Neagle if he wanted to get back into baseball. I don't know where he is or what he is doing but I hope his life is back on track and that he isn't haunted by a couple of terrible decisions.
Which brings me to Denny McLain, the last 30-game winner in the Major Leagues. Unlike Neagle, McLain was a jerk when he played and a bigger piece of crap when he left the game. Gambling, weapons, associations with unsavory characters and wasted talent was McLain's legacy as a player outside of his 31-win season in 1968. Following his pitching career, McLain spent time in prison for drug trafficking, racketeering and embezzlement. After that stint in prison, he went back for pilfering 2.5 million from the pension fund of a Michigan company.
In between prison terms, McLain worked as a talk radio host, did autograph signings and endorsements and some TV work. Seems like McLain was in demand despite being a despicable human being.
Currently McLain is writing for a sports magazine in Detroit while Neagle is likely still paying the price for a couple of embarrassing and damaging transgressions.
I wouldn't want to spend 5-minutes in the company of Denny McLain. I wouldn't say the same thing about Denny Neagle.
Then I thought of former Major League pitcher Denny Neagle who could do a hilarious impression of a train whistle. Then I wondered if he's done that train whistle imitation lately. When was the last time? Who knows? All I know is that Neagle has vanished from sight and I speculate what he is up to these days.
When Neagle pitched for the Rockies, I was frequently in the Coors Field clubhouse getting postgame sound. Not my favorite thing to do in sports but part of the job. Neagle was always nice and cordial to me. I would watch him interact with people and he was a funny, fun loving guy. He didn't pitch all that well for the Rockies but he didn't seem to take it out on anyone else.
Then it all unraveled in November of 2004 when the injury plagued pitcher was arrested for soliciting a prostitute in Denver. He later pleaded guilty to the charge. From that point on it seems like things went downhill for the affable lefthander. It didn't help that the prostitute in question looked like an ugly, meth-addicted man. That just led to punchlines and jokes. His marriage ended shortly after and he was later arrested for DUI. I have an easier time forgiving him for the prostitute scandal than the DUI. He could have killed someone driving drunk but the incident with the prostitute didn't harm me or anyone other than his wife and family. Which is pretty bad too.
But under the assumption that everyone deserves a second chance, it would be nice if that was afforded to Neagle if he wanted to get back into baseball. I don't know where he is or what he is doing but I hope his life is back on track and that he isn't haunted by a couple of terrible decisions.
Which brings me to Denny McLain, the last 30-game winner in the Major Leagues. Unlike Neagle, McLain was a jerk when he played and a bigger piece of crap when he left the game. Gambling, weapons, associations with unsavory characters and wasted talent was McLain's legacy as a player outside of his 31-win season in 1968. Following his pitching career, McLain spent time in prison for drug trafficking, racketeering and embezzlement. After that stint in prison, he went back for pilfering 2.5 million from the pension fund of a Michigan company.
In between prison terms, McLain worked as a talk radio host, did autograph signings and endorsements and some TV work. Seems like McLain was in demand despite being a despicable human being.
Currently McLain is writing for a sports magazine in Detroit while Neagle is likely still paying the price for a couple of embarrassing and damaging transgressions.
I wouldn't want to spend 5-minutes in the company of Denny McLain. I wouldn't say the same thing about Denny Neagle.
Asdrubal Mania!
He's one of the most underrated players in baseball but that will change soon.
Asdrubal Cabrera of the Indians is on a tear. He's Brooklyn Decker hot. In his last two games the shortstop is 9-11 with 3 homers and 7 RBI's. He's hitting .312 with 10 home runs and 34 RBI's.
Cabrera's previous career high in homers was 6 which he's done twice, in 2008 and 2009. Now 25, he's developing his power stroke, helping the surprising Indians to the best record in baseball at 30-15.
The Tribe is 19-4 at Jacobs Field, excuse me, Progressive Field. By the way, if Progressive is going to buy the naming rights, why not Progressive Park? As a fan of alliteration that is what I would prefer, but I digress.
Back in the Jacobs Field days (1994-2007), Indians fans packed the place. They sold out the spiffy new, 45, 199 seat yard 455 consecutive times, a Major League record.
While the team had fallen on tough times in recent seasons, they are playing great baseball this year. Apparently the Cleveland fans are a cynical bunch since last night only 19,255 showed up for the Tribe's 3-2 come-from-behind win over the Red Sox.
Are the Indians for real? I'm not sure but it's beginning to look like they are. And they are led by a guy named Asdrubal, the only player named Asdrubal in Major League history.
Asdrubal Cabrera of the Indians is on a tear. He's Brooklyn Decker hot. In his last two games the shortstop is 9-11 with 3 homers and 7 RBI's. He's hitting .312 with 10 home runs and 34 RBI's.
Cabrera's previous career high in homers was 6 which he's done twice, in 2008 and 2009. Now 25, he's developing his power stroke, helping the surprising Indians to the best record in baseball at 30-15.
The Tribe is 19-4 at Jacobs Field, excuse me, Progressive Field. By the way, if Progressive is going to buy the naming rights, why not Progressive Park? As a fan of alliteration that is what I would prefer, but I digress.
Back in the Jacobs Field days (1994-2007), Indians fans packed the place. They sold out the spiffy new, 45, 199 seat yard 455 consecutive times, a Major League record.
While the team had fallen on tough times in recent seasons, they are playing great baseball this year. Apparently the Cleveland fans are a cynical bunch since last night only 19,255 showed up for the Tribe's 3-2 come-from-behind win over the Red Sox.
Are the Indians for real? I'm not sure but it's beginning to look like they are. And they are led by a guy named Asdrubal, the only player named Asdrubal in Major League history.
Website Alert
If you are into baseball nostalgia, there is a great website I'd recommend. Go to www.brooklyndodgermemories.com for a terrific journey back in time.
It doesn't only deal with the Brooklyn Dodgers either. There are sections on teams, players and ballparks as well.
The nice thing is there are plenty of people who post their thoughts, comments and memories without any of the "internet tough guys" who tend post on these sites. People get very bold when they can get away with anonymous quotes.
It's a fun website and one that any baseball fan with an appreciation of the game's great history would appreciate.
It doesn't only deal with the Brooklyn Dodgers either. There are sections on teams, players and ballparks as well.
The nice thing is there are plenty of people who post their thoughts, comments and memories without any of the "internet tough guys" who tend post on these sites. People get very bold when they can get away with anonymous quotes.
It's a fun website and one that any baseball fan with an appreciation of the game's great history would appreciate.
Oh No...Southpaws
Jorge Posada and Adam Dunn are not fond of facing lefties this season. Combined against southpaws, Posada and Dunn are 0-56.
Dunn, who is hitting just .189, is 0-30 against lefties while the .176 hitting Posada is 0-26 against lefties.
Sometimes stats are misleading but I think I can definitively say that there is no way those 0-fers can be spun. I think I could do better. I know for sure that I couldn't do worse nor could you.
Dunn, who is hitting just .189, is 0-30 against lefties while the .176 hitting Posada is 0-26 against lefties.
Sometimes stats are misleading but I think I can definitively say that there is no way those 0-fers can be spun. I think I could do better. I know for sure that I couldn't do worse nor could you.
Freddie The Clown
It is probably a character flaw I have when it comes to the Mets. I hate that team, have always hated that team and I love when misery hits them. To say I'm enjoying the Mets problems is an understatement.
The latest fiasco involves their out to lunch owner Fred Wilpon who declared in a New York Magazine article that he wasn't about to pay shortstop Jose Reyes "Carl Crawford money," that third baseman David Wright "wasn't a superstar" and he even called himself a schmuck for signing Carlos Beltran to a huge contract.
Nothing like devaluing your product and making life more difficult for General Manager Sandy Alderson.
Since Reyes will be leaving as a free agent after the season, how can you trade him and get anything decent in return after the owner cracked on him. Same for Beltran who Wilpon said was 70% of what he should be.
Forbes Magazine says that in the past year the value of the Mets has decreased 13% to 747-million dollars. Every time Wilpon opens his mouth the franchise worth goes down. Keep talking Freddie, keep talking!
Add to the fact that attendance is down 25% at Citi Field and the Mets are a crappy team anyway, it is easy to see that Wilpon should sell the club. But he's stubborn and desperately wants to hold on to the team.
If I were a Mets fan I'd beg him to sell. But, as a Mets hater I can only say, "Don't sell Fred. Keep the team!!!"
The latest fiasco involves their out to lunch owner Fred Wilpon who declared in a New York Magazine article that he wasn't about to pay shortstop Jose Reyes "Carl Crawford money," that third baseman David Wright "wasn't a superstar" and he even called himself a schmuck for signing Carlos Beltran to a huge contract.
Nothing like devaluing your product and making life more difficult for General Manager Sandy Alderson.
Since Reyes will be leaving as a free agent after the season, how can you trade him and get anything decent in return after the owner cracked on him. Same for Beltran who Wilpon said was 70% of what he should be.
Forbes Magazine says that in the past year the value of the Mets has decreased 13% to 747-million dollars. Every time Wilpon opens his mouth the franchise worth goes down. Keep talking Freddie, keep talking!
Add to the fact that attendance is down 25% at Citi Field and the Mets are a crappy team anyway, it is easy to see that Wilpon should sell the club. But he's stubborn and desperately wants to hold on to the team.
If I were a Mets fan I'd beg him to sell. But, as a Mets hater I can only say, "Don't sell Fred. Keep the team!!!"
Monday, May 23, 2011
Little League Power!
Greg Anderson, the trainer for Barry Bonds who provided steroids to the slugger...check that, allegedly provided steroids to Bonds, is now out of prison and coaching a little league team in California.
The 11 and 12 year old team that Anderson is coaching is off to a good start. In 9 games they've hit 156 homers and are hitting .877 as a team. That's good coaching in my opinion!
The 11 and 12 year old team that Anderson is coaching is off to a good start. In 9 games they've hit 156 homers and are hitting .877 as a team. That's good coaching in my opinion!
1918 Revisited
I took much interest in this past weekends Cubs-Red Sox series at Fenway Park.
It was the first time since the 1918 World Series that the Cubs played at Fenway.
While I'm not a fan of interleague play (example: Twins-Diamondbacks, Astros-Blue Jays) there are some perks and this was one of them.
It was especially appealing to watch Saturday night's game when both the Cubs and Red Sox wore throwback, logoless, baggy 1918 style uniforms.
They should have went all out and made the uniforms out of wool. I don't know if the modern day ballplayer would have gone for that.
What was also good about Saturday at The Fens was that the Cubs beat the Red Sox, snapping the Bostons 7-game winning streak. But alas, the Cubs couldn't take the series as they were stymied (as opposed to Alfalfed or Buckwheated) by Tim Wakefield's knuckleball in a 5-1 win over Chicago last night.
The Red Sox are playing very good baseball of late. After their horrendous start they are back on track and looking at the AL East, one of these three will not be a playoff team: The Red Sox, Yanks or Rays. It will be a dogfight all season long. Plus, you can't totally dismiss the Blue Jays.
It was the first time since the 1918 World Series that the Cubs played at Fenway.
While I'm not a fan of interleague play (example: Twins-Diamondbacks, Astros-Blue Jays) there are some perks and this was one of them.
It was especially appealing to watch Saturday night's game when both the Cubs and Red Sox wore throwback, logoless, baggy 1918 style uniforms.
They should have went all out and made the uniforms out of wool. I don't know if the modern day ballplayer would have gone for that.
What was also good about Saturday at The Fens was that the Cubs beat the Red Sox, snapping the Bostons 7-game winning streak. But alas, the Cubs couldn't take the series as they were stymied (as opposed to Alfalfed or Buckwheated) by Tim Wakefield's knuckleball in a 5-1 win over Chicago last night.
The Red Sox are playing very good baseball of late. After their horrendous start they are back on track and looking at the AL East, one of these three will not be a playoff team: The Red Sox, Yanks or Rays. It will be a dogfight all season long. Plus, you can't totally dismiss the Blue Jays.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Jeet-O-Meter #18
Time to update the Jeet-O-Meter as the Yankees captain marches on towards 3,000 hits.
Jeter, since we last updated the meter, has collected 5 hits and now owns a total of 2,971 hits, just 29 knocks away from 3,000.
Meanwhile, I spoke to Ian O'Connor yesterday. I interviewed him regarding his new book, "The Captain...The Journey of Derek Jeter."
I'm almost finished with the book and I can tell you it is a terrific read and superb insight to the sometimes reclusive and mysterious Jeter. There are certainly some parallels between Jeter and another great Yankee, Joe DiMaggio.
I would certainly recommend picking up O'Connor's book. You can hear the interview Sunday night on Artificial Turf, 710 KNUS. Or, if you are outside our listening range, just go to www.710knus.com and listen on the internet.
Jeter, since we last updated the meter, has collected 5 hits and now owns a total of 2,971 hits, just 29 knocks away from 3,000.
Meanwhile, I spoke to Ian O'Connor yesterday. I interviewed him regarding his new book, "The Captain...The Journey of Derek Jeter."
I'm almost finished with the book and I can tell you it is a terrific read and superb insight to the sometimes reclusive and mysterious Jeter. There are certainly some parallels between Jeter and another great Yankee, Joe DiMaggio.
I would certainly recommend picking up O'Connor's book. You can hear the interview Sunday night on Artificial Turf, 710 KNUS. Or, if you are outside our listening range, just go to www.710knus.com and listen on the internet.
The Kid
Sad to hear that Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter has been diagnosed with 4 brain tumors. Just 57 years old, Carter will be going to Duke University Hospital next week to see if the tumors are benign or malignant.
Here's hoping for the best for Carter and I hope you'll join me in sending some prayers his way.
Here's hoping for the best for Carter and I hope you'll join me in sending some prayers his way.
Crummy Night
I had a wretched baseball night last evening.
First, the Yankees lost 2-1 to the Mets. Just a day after piling on the Orioles 13-2, they were shut down by... R.A. Dickey? Really. I could hit that guy. Of all the knuckleball pitchers I've seen, and there haven't been many, he's the worst of the bunch. Worse than the Niekro's, worse than Wilbur Wood, worse than Wakefield. Come on, you can't put more than 1 run on the board against that guy?
Then the capper was the Brewers 7-6, 14-inning win over the Rockies. Colorado coughed this one up thanks to the bullpen or, if you prefer, the arsonist squad.
They blew not one but two saves. Huston Street, after the Rocks scored a run in the top of the 13th, gave one back in the bottom of the inning by serving up Yuniesky Betancourt. Then the Rocks pushed one across in the top of the 14th. So what happens. Jim Tracy brings in Felipe Paulino and you knew, right then and there that this game was going to end up a Milwaukee win. Sure enough, a walk and a meatball later, Prince Fielder blasted one to Kenosha and the Brewers walked off with a win.
I don't care what people say or what the stats say. Huston Street is a middle reliever at best. He's not a closer. He doesn't have a dominant pitch, he isn't intimidating or imposing and if he's not completely sharp he gets raked. He blows too many saves.
As for Paulino, I've said it before and I'll say it again. The guy is horrible and is not a major league pitcher. I wouldn't want him pitching for my old guys baseball team. He gets me in an ill and violent mood every time I see him walk to the mound. Rockies, please, get rid of this bum immediately!
First, the Yankees lost 2-1 to the Mets. Just a day after piling on the Orioles 13-2, they were shut down by... R.A. Dickey? Really. I could hit that guy. Of all the knuckleball pitchers I've seen, and there haven't been many, he's the worst of the bunch. Worse than the Niekro's, worse than Wilbur Wood, worse than Wakefield. Come on, you can't put more than 1 run on the board against that guy?
Then the capper was the Brewers 7-6, 14-inning win over the Rockies. Colorado coughed this one up thanks to the bullpen or, if you prefer, the arsonist squad.
They blew not one but two saves. Huston Street, after the Rocks scored a run in the top of the 13th, gave one back in the bottom of the inning by serving up Yuniesky Betancourt. Then the Rocks pushed one across in the top of the 14th. So what happens. Jim Tracy brings in Felipe Paulino and you knew, right then and there that this game was going to end up a Milwaukee win. Sure enough, a walk and a meatball later, Prince Fielder blasted one to Kenosha and the Brewers walked off with a win.
I don't care what people say or what the stats say. Huston Street is a middle reliever at best. He's not a closer. He doesn't have a dominant pitch, he isn't intimidating or imposing and if he's not completely sharp he gets raked. He blows too many saves.
As for Paulino, I've said it before and I'll say it again. The guy is horrible and is not a major league pitcher. I wouldn't want him pitching for my old guys baseball team. He gets me in an ill and violent mood every time I see him walk to the mound. Rockies, please, get rid of this bum immediately!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Jeet-O-Meter #17
Time to update the ole Jeet-O-Meter as the Yankees captain steams towards 3,000 hits. Well, steams might not be a great word. How about as he trudges towards that magical number?
Tonight in Tampa, Jeter went 1-5 with an RBI. His average stands at .253. He now has 40 hits on the season and a career total of 2,966 hits. Just 34 hits away.
Tonight in Tampa, Jeter went 1-5 with an RBI. His average stands at .253. He now has 40 hits on the season and a career total of 2,966 hits. Just 34 hits away.
Thaaaaaaa Yankees Win (Finally)
The Yankees 6-game losing streak is over with a 6-2 win over the Rays in Tampa. Alex Rodriguez woke up from his coma and belted a pair of solo homers. The Yanks are 2 games behind the Rays in the AL East.
Right now I'm not too high on the Yankees. If you put a gun to my head, I say they don't make the playoffs this season. They are getting old and the pitching is very spotty at best.
Right now I'm not too high on the Yankees. If you put a gun to my head, I say they don't make the playoffs this season. They are getting old and the pitching is very spotty at best.
A Bad Day for Jorge
Jorge Posada was back in the Yankees lineup tonight in Tampa and collected a pair of hits including a double.
It's his first action since taking himself out of the lineup prior to a game against the Red Sox after he learned that he was batting 9th. Posada should have felt fortunate to even be in the lineup since he was batting a dismal .165.
The Yankees dismissed it and the official word was that Posada "had a bad day."
While interviewed on Sunday night baseball on ESPN, Posada again said that he simply "had a bad day."
How about everyone getting a "had a bad day" mulligan. You show up to work, curse out your boss, throw something across the room and storm out. You come back the next day and everything is alright since yesterday you "had a bad day."
Or the lawyer of a murder suspect saying, "Come on, let's let it go. He just had a bad day."
Posada should worry about just getting hits instead of storming around because his ego is hurt that he's hitting a sickly .165.
Actually, he now has his average up to .179. Oh, he batted in the 7th spot in the lineup. If I were Joe Girardi I'd have put him in the 9th spot again to see what his reaction would be.
It's his first action since taking himself out of the lineup prior to a game against the Red Sox after he learned that he was batting 9th. Posada should have felt fortunate to even be in the lineup since he was batting a dismal .165.
The Yankees dismissed it and the official word was that Posada "had a bad day."
While interviewed on Sunday night baseball on ESPN, Posada again said that he simply "had a bad day."
How about everyone getting a "had a bad day" mulligan. You show up to work, curse out your boss, throw something across the room and storm out. You come back the next day and everything is alright since yesterday you "had a bad day."
Or the lawyer of a murder suspect saying, "Come on, let's let it go. He just had a bad day."
Posada should worry about just getting hits instead of storming around because his ego is hurt that he's hitting a sickly .165.
Actually, he now has his average up to .179. Oh, he batted in the 7th spot in the lineup. If I were Joe Girardi I'd have put him in the 9th spot again to see what his reaction would be.
LaRussa's Back!
Tony LaRussa is back managing the Cardinals after missing the recent road trip with shingles. I don't know exactly what shingles are but I suspect LaRussa's shingles aren't related to the shingles on rooftops.
Anyway, he's back in fighting form, this time taking on Reds Hall of Fame announcer Marty Brennaman.
It seems Brennaman called Cardinals pitcher Chris Carpenter a "whiner and excuse maker" after Sunday's loss that dropped Carpenter to 1-3. Carpenter moaned about the condition of the mound, the light rain and of the lingering smoke from fireworks set off after a home run.
Brennaman also said the Cardinals might be "the most disliked team in baseball."
LaRussa shot back, "He earned the right to get into the Hall of Fame. And now he ought to keep earning that respect instead of abusing it."
I truly believe that LaRussa was simply sticking up for his player.
The Reds and Cardinals don't get along one bit and it is shaping up to be a fun summer between those teams in the NL Central.
Oh yeah, it's Brennaman's serve now.
Anyway, he's back in fighting form, this time taking on Reds Hall of Fame announcer Marty Brennaman.
It seems Brennaman called Cardinals pitcher Chris Carpenter a "whiner and excuse maker" after Sunday's loss that dropped Carpenter to 1-3. Carpenter moaned about the condition of the mound, the light rain and of the lingering smoke from fireworks set off after a home run.
Brennaman also said the Cardinals might be "the most disliked team in baseball."
LaRussa shot back, "He earned the right to get into the Hall of Fame. And now he ought to keep earning that respect instead of abusing it."
I truly believe that LaRussa was simply sticking up for his player.
The Reds and Cardinals don't get along one bit and it is shaping up to be a fun summer between those teams in the NL Central.
Oh yeah, it's Brennaman's serve now.
That'll Hurt The Old ERA
You have to feel somewhat sorry for Royals pitcher Vin Mazzaro last night. He saw his ERA swell to an unsightly 22.74 after allowing 14 earned runs in 2 2/3 innings in last night's 19-1 loss to the Indians.
The outing earned Mazzaro a trip to AAA Omaha. Yes, it was a rough night for the 24-year old from New Jersey.
But there is hope. Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Feller also once gave up 14 earned runs in a game.
Hang in there Vin. You're still getting paid to play baseball. A million other guys would love to be in your shoes.
The outing earned Mazzaro a trip to AAA Omaha. Yes, it was a rough night for the 24-year old from New Jersey.
But there is hope. Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Feller also once gave up 14 earned runs in a game.
Hang in there Vin. You're still getting paid to play baseball. A million other guys would love to be in your shoes.
Two Big Wins
The Rockies are back in first place in the NL West after winning a pair of come from behind games over the Giants.
I was at the game last night and was pleasantly surprised that the bats woke up in time to hand Tim Lincecum a 7-4 loss.
Today at Coors the Rockies ended the home stand on a positive note by beating San Fran again, 5-3 as Carlos Gonzalez came through with a 2-run single. He belted a 3-run homer last night to provide the winning margin.
If Gonzalez can get hot he and Tulowitzki, who is starting to heat up again, can carry this team. Add in the nice pitching today of Ubaldo Jimenez and things are looking up again for Colorado. Although he didn't get the win, Jimenez allowed 3 runs in 7 innings with 7 strikeouts. Not great for Ubaldo but a step in the right direction.
I was at the game last night and was pleasantly surprised that the bats woke up in time to hand Tim Lincecum a 7-4 loss.
Today at Coors the Rockies ended the home stand on a positive note by beating San Fran again, 5-3 as Carlos Gonzalez came through with a 2-run single. He belted a 3-run homer last night to provide the winning margin.
If Gonzalez can get hot he and Tulowitzki, who is starting to heat up again, can carry this team. Add in the nice pitching today of Ubaldo Jimenez and things are looking up again for Colorado. Although he didn't get the win, Jimenez allowed 3 runs in 7 innings with 7 strikeouts. Not great for Ubaldo but a step in the right direction.
Scott Boras
I've been meaning to write about my meeting with player agent Scott Boras last week at Coors Field. Unfortunately, this blogging system was jacked up and I wasn't able to post.
Anyway, one of the most despised men in baseball from a management point of view, was in Denver to visit with some clients. On the Rockies, Boras represents Dexter Fowler, Ryan Spilborghs and Carlos Gonzalez. The reason I say despised is because he drives a hard bargain and does his job very well, that job being get as much money for his client as he can.
Boras was very friendly and I brought up one of his former players, Matt White. White was a bonus baby who signed a 10.2 million dollar bonus with the Tampa Bay Rays in 1996. Ten years later, he was out of baseball, never having reached the Major Leagues due to some devastating shoulder injuries. Too bad. He was a good guy and I got to know him when announcing his minor league games at Hudson Valley.
Anyway, when I asked Boras about White, he told me he just spoke to him and that he's the pitching coach at the University of Michigan.
Couple of things. I'm glad White is back in baseball. Two, I was impressed that Boras had just spoken to him. I'm guessing that a lot of agents, once a player is done making money for him, just lose touch and pretty much dispose of an athlete. Not Boras.
I asked Boras why we never read about his players going broke when they were done playing and he told me that he employs a group of people that he called the "money police." They educate the players on money and they watch their spending habits. They explain things such as buying a house. Why buy a house when you can lease? If you buy a house in Cleveland and then you get traded to Seattle, then you have to sell your house at a 40% loss. He gave the example of Magglio Ordonez who leases a home in the Detroit area.
He also said that while athletes love cars, having several cars that cost money for insurance and maintenance which also depreciate is not a wise move.
Talking to Boras I got the sense that he really cares about this clients. He only has about 80 players that he represents. He could certainly have more if he wanted. He also only deals with baseball players because as a former minor league player, "that's what I know."
People call Boras greedy but I think that if he really was a greedy guy he would have more clients in all sorts of sports. But he couldn't give them all the personal attention he feels he deserves.
If Boras represented radio people, I'd look to become his client in a heartbeat.
So the next time you hear someone badmouth Scott Boras, think again.
Anyway, one of the most despised men in baseball from a management point of view, was in Denver to visit with some clients. On the Rockies, Boras represents Dexter Fowler, Ryan Spilborghs and Carlos Gonzalez. The reason I say despised is because he drives a hard bargain and does his job very well, that job being get as much money for his client as he can.
Boras was very friendly and I brought up one of his former players, Matt White. White was a bonus baby who signed a 10.2 million dollar bonus with the Tampa Bay Rays in 1996. Ten years later, he was out of baseball, never having reached the Major Leagues due to some devastating shoulder injuries. Too bad. He was a good guy and I got to know him when announcing his minor league games at Hudson Valley.
Anyway, when I asked Boras about White, he told me he just spoke to him and that he's the pitching coach at the University of Michigan.
Couple of things. I'm glad White is back in baseball. Two, I was impressed that Boras had just spoken to him. I'm guessing that a lot of agents, once a player is done making money for him, just lose touch and pretty much dispose of an athlete. Not Boras.
I asked Boras why we never read about his players going broke when they were done playing and he told me that he employs a group of people that he called the "money police." They educate the players on money and they watch their spending habits. They explain things such as buying a house. Why buy a house when you can lease? If you buy a house in Cleveland and then you get traded to Seattle, then you have to sell your house at a 40% loss. He gave the example of Magglio Ordonez who leases a home in the Detroit area.
He also said that while athletes love cars, having several cars that cost money for insurance and maintenance which also depreciate is not a wise move.
Talking to Boras I got the sense that he really cares about this clients. He only has about 80 players that he represents. He could certainly have more if he wanted. He also only deals with baseball players because as a former minor league player, "that's what I know."
People call Boras greedy but I think that if he really was a greedy guy he would have more clients in all sorts of sports. But he couldn't give them all the personal attention he feels he deserves.
If Boras represented radio people, I'd look to become his client in a heartbeat.
So the next time you hear someone badmouth Scott Boras, think again.
Killer
Sad to hear of the passing of Harmon Killebrew. The Hall of Famer was 74 and died today after a gallant battle with esophageal cancer.
I remember watching him with the Twins. He was a terrifying batter who certainly didn't get cheated on his cuts. He swatted 573 home runs when that number meant more than it does today. In other words, pre-steroid era.
I also remember him getting hurt in an All-Star game by making a long stretch at first base. He messed up his hamstring on that play.
In the classic book "Ball Four," Jim Bouton talked about the fear that "The Fat Kid" put into opposing pitchers. He thought highly of Killebrew as most players did.
Unfortunately, I never had the chance to meet Killebrew. But from everything I've read and heard about him there wasn't a nicer, kinder man than him.
Harmon Killebrew, great ballplayer, great man. He'll be missed.
Condolences to his family, friends and former teammates.
I remember watching him with the Twins. He was a terrifying batter who certainly didn't get cheated on his cuts. He swatted 573 home runs when that number meant more than it does today. In other words, pre-steroid era.
I also remember him getting hurt in an All-Star game by making a long stretch at first base. He messed up his hamstring on that play.
In the classic book "Ball Four," Jim Bouton talked about the fear that "The Fat Kid" put into opposing pitchers. He thought highly of Killebrew as most players did.
Unfortunately, I never had the chance to meet Killebrew. But from everything I've read and heard about him there wasn't a nicer, kinder man than him.
Harmon Killebrew, great ballplayer, great man. He'll be missed.
Condolences to his family, friends and former teammates.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
All In The Sewer Pipes
What a massive choke job today by the Rockies. Colorado coughed up a 7-1, 7th inning lead as the 1927 Yankees...check that, the 2011 stinking San Diego Padres rallied to beat the weak-minded Rockies 9-7.
Former Rockies outfielder Brad Hawpe blasted a two-run homer off Huston Street in the 9th to provide the winning margin for the Padres.
Just a disgraceful and unacceptable loss.
Watching the postgame show and listening to the commentators sugar coat the loss, I'm even more disgusted. Roger Baily talking nonsense about momentum and Tracy Ringolsby talking about the drizzly weather and wet baseballs. Geez. Come on. Will someone step up and say, "The Rockies blew this game like they gave away too many games last year. This team seems to lack a pulse at times and just goes through the motions. To lose this same is absolutely abominable and each guy should look in the mirror and wonder how to turn this sinking ship around." Of course if they said that they would get criticized or even fired.
The Rockies gift wrap a win but a reporter could put his or her job in jeopardy for, as Howard Cosell would say, "Telling it like it is."
Meanwhile, I know how Hawpe hit the homer. It's all in the sewer pipes.
If you have no idea what I'm talking about, well, just copy and past this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGI8swltOAM on YouTube.
Former Rockies outfielder Brad Hawpe blasted a two-run homer off Huston Street in the 9th to provide the winning margin for the Padres.
Just a disgraceful and unacceptable loss.
Watching the postgame show and listening to the commentators sugar coat the loss, I'm even more disgusted. Roger Baily talking nonsense about momentum and Tracy Ringolsby talking about the drizzly weather and wet baseballs. Geez. Come on. Will someone step up and say, "The Rockies blew this game like they gave away too many games last year. This team seems to lack a pulse at times and just goes through the motions. To lose this same is absolutely abominable and each guy should look in the mirror and wonder how to turn this sinking ship around." Of course if they said that they would get criticized or even fired.
The Rockies gift wrap a win but a reporter could put his or her job in jeopardy for, as Howard Cosell would say, "Telling it like it is."
Meanwhile, I know how Hawpe hit the homer. It's all in the sewer pipes.
If you have no idea what I'm talking about, well, just copy and past this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGI8swltOAM on YouTube.
Connor Shreve
One of my friends, Connor Shreve, is in his first year broadcasting Kinston Indians baseball in the Class A Carolina League.
He's a talented young fellow who last year was broadcasting for the Hunstville Stars in Alabama in the Southern League. He's announced several different sports and once again is in the baseball booth this season. I shot him an e-mail with some questions and here are his answers. I thought it would be interesting to get the viewpoints of a current minor league baseball broadcaster.
Thanks Connor.
BR
_______________________________
What are your duties with the Kinston Indians?
At home games, I serve as the P.A. Announcer for the beginning and end of the game and get to handle the radio play by play for the middle three innings. On the road, I am the more typical #2 broadcaster with color broadcast duties most of the game and lead play by play duties for the middle three innings. I also co-host our weekly half hour T.V. show, "Tribe Talk" (generally a long form player interview).
office duties: prepare and distribute media notes/stat packs
-Update video board with player stats and headshots
-in charge of coordinating our advertising in the local newspaper and highway billboards
-prepare/design/order team card sets
-updating and marketing on social media sites such as facebook and twitter
-writing and posting game recaps and feature stories to our website kinstonindians.com
-print and distribute box scores to press box and both clubhouses
Favorite part of your job?
Nobody in this business, at least not for very long, does it for the money. That being said its fun to be around people who are having fun doing their job. Work is always better when the people around you want to be doing what they are doing. On top of that its fun to see first hand the major leaguers of tomorrow (I think I just came up with a slogan). I have been able to watch 2010 first rounder Drew Pomeranz make the first five starts of his professional career, rumor has it that Bryce Harper will be in this league within the next week or so and I'll be able to see him as well. To be able to interact with these guys on a daily basis is always interesting.
Least favorite part of the job?
From April-Sep, I don't have a life. Most people I tell about my job think all we do is broadcast. Last homestand (Mon-Sun) I made .70 cents an hour. When you put office duties on top of broadcast duties, a 12 hour day is very common. We play 140 games in 150 days, if one of those off days comes on a weekday, I still have to come in to the office. It is taxing both physically and mentally and can be tough on relationships.
Any funny stories so far?
My best story came during our opening homestand but the road trip I am currently on may be giving it a run for its money. As previously mentioned, one of my duties is to distribute box scores to the coaching staffs. After the second game of the season I entered the visiting clubhouse occupied by the Winston Salem Dash, a Chicago White Sox affiliate. Pitching coach Bobby Thigpen apparently needed some questions answered regarding the nightlife of Greenville and I was the man to give it to him. Greenville is a town to the north of Kinston and the home of East Carolina University. His exact question was, "How's the Hooters up in Greenville?" The next thing you know, I'm engaged in a very detailed conversation on all things Hooters with the one time single season saves leader himself.
Yesterday, we found out that the roof in Myrtle beach was not built with sides which makes the inside very intriguing to the local birds, fitting since the team is called the Pelicans. Apparently from their nest its rather easy to drop down in to the visiting press box, mind you this is only an issue in the visiting radio booth. Each of last two days we have had a very scared bird drop in to the booth, you can probably figure what a frightened and scared bird does once he finds himself staring down to boring. One of us has to go find the worker who also doubles as the "bird catcher" to come take care of our bird problem with his special bird catchin' bucket. Its quite a scene.
Biggest challenge covering minor league baseball?
For me it's balancing unbiased opinion vs. keeping players/families/fans as happy as possible. I have a tendency to be a little blunt and because I haven't been with a team for more than one year yet (2010 w/Huntsville, 2011 w/Kinston) I don't have an emotional connection with anyone on the field. It helps me make an even call but in some instances can fracture your working relationship with managers or players, which can make your job tougher. Its only happened once but the manager and I sat down and worked it out without any issues. Generally just being on the field and in the clubhouse, regularly watching BP goes a long way in limiting those kinds of issues.
How would you rate your home ballpark?
Historic Grainger Stadium is truly one of the gems of the Carolina League. It was built in the 1940's and had significant renovations completed in 2002, so the money being out back in to it has kept in stellar shape. We have been an Indians affiliate for 25 years and legends have played here like Paul Shuey, Jim Thome, Manny Ramirez C.C. Sabathia etc. The players love it because Grainger's playing surface is widely regarded as one of the best in minor league baseball. The press box is a little odd as the radio booths are small and the windows don't open but that's my only minor complaint. http://www.ballparkreviews.com/kinston/kinston.htm
Which Kinston Indians players would you predict will be future major leaguers?
Our pitching staff has been very good and has a few future major leaguers. Drew Pomeranz will certainly get a shot. A closer out of the University of Arizona, Preston Guilmet has been lock down and should get his chance at the upper levels as well. The Indians pitching staff is incredibly young but almost all of them have been impressive-Clayton Cook and Giovanni Soto (not the Cub, its spelled differently) both project as solid back of the rotation type guys at the big league level. As far as dark horse candidates go, if Adam Abraham can get back to his early season form, he has great power and is a former hockey player in the OHL so he has the athleticism to do good things at third base. Also, Colorado boy Tyler Sturdevant has been very good this season. The reliever from Littleton has been solid most of his career; He will have to have something happen soon though, as he is already 25 yrs old. "Sturdie" has been impressing the scouts lately and is one of the nicest guys on the team. If he is blocked in Cleveland it would not surprise me if another team asks to have him thrown in in some kind of deal at some point.
What advice you would give to aspiring baseball announcers?
First commit. It takes a huge sacrifice so decide wholeheartedly its what you want to do before going after it. Be willing to intern for a year or two. Get as many on air opportunities as possible, this is the key to improving. Also, listen to yourself. This can be one of the most painful experiences because you are often harder on yourself than anyone else but that allows you to catch some flaws others wont hear. Finally, network. People are the biggest reason for hirings in this business. Pros can help your career by offering advice on your work and serve as references.
He's a talented young fellow who last year was broadcasting for the Hunstville Stars in Alabama in the Southern League. He's announced several different sports and once again is in the baseball booth this season. I shot him an e-mail with some questions and here are his answers. I thought it would be interesting to get the viewpoints of a current minor league baseball broadcaster.
Thanks Connor.
BR
_______________________________
What are your duties with the Kinston Indians?
At home games, I serve as the P.A. Announcer for the beginning and end of the game and get to handle the radio play by play for the middle three innings. On the road, I am the more typical #2 broadcaster with color broadcast duties most of the game and lead play by play duties for the middle three innings. I also co-host our weekly half hour T.V. show, "Tribe Talk" (generally a long form player interview).
office duties: prepare and distribute media notes/stat packs
-Update video board with player stats and headshots
-in charge of coordinating our advertising in the local newspaper and highway billboards
-prepare/design/order team card sets
-updating and marketing on social media sites such as facebook and twitter
-writing and posting game recaps and feature stories to our website kinstonindians.com
-print and distribute box scores to press box and both clubhouses
Favorite part of your job?
Nobody in this business, at least not for very long, does it for the money. That being said its fun to be around people who are having fun doing their job. Work is always better when the people around you want to be doing what they are doing. On top of that its fun to see first hand the major leaguers of tomorrow (I think I just came up with a slogan). I have been able to watch 2010 first rounder Drew Pomeranz make the first five starts of his professional career, rumor has it that Bryce Harper will be in this league within the next week or so and I'll be able to see him as well. To be able to interact with these guys on a daily basis is always interesting.
Least favorite part of the job?
From April-Sep, I don't have a life. Most people I tell about my job think all we do is broadcast. Last homestand (Mon-Sun) I made .70 cents an hour. When you put office duties on top of broadcast duties, a 12 hour day is very common. We play 140 games in 150 days, if one of those off days comes on a weekday, I still have to come in to the office. It is taxing both physically and mentally and can be tough on relationships.
Any funny stories so far?
My best story came during our opening homestand but the road trip I am currently on may be giving it a run for its money. As previously mentioned, one of my duties is to distribute box scores to the coaching staffs. After the second game of the season I entered the visiting clubhouse occupied by the Winston Salem Dash, a Chicago White Sox affiliate. Pitching coach Bobby Thigpen apparently needed some questions answered regarding the nightlife of Greenville and I was the man to give it to him. Greenville is a town to the north of Kinston and the home of East Carolina University. His exact question was, "How's the Hooters up in Greenville?" The next thing you know, I'm engaged in a very detailed conversation on all things Hooters with the one time single season saves leader himself.
Yesterday, we found out that the roof in Myrtle beach was not built with sides which makes the inside very intriguing to the local birds, fitting since the team is called the Pelicans. Apparently from their nest its rather easy to drop down in to the visiting press box, mind you this is only an issue in the visiting radio booth. Each of last two days we have had a very scared bird drop in to the booth, you can probably figure what a frightened and scared bird does once he finds himself staring down to boring. One of us has to go find the worker who also doubles as the "bird catcher" to come take care of our bird problem with his special bird catchin' bucket. Its quite a scene.
Biggest challenge covering minor league baseball?
For me it's balancing unbiased opinion vs. keeping players/families/fans as happy as possible. I have a tendency to be a little blunt and because I haven't been with a team for more than one year yet (2010 w/Huntsville, 2011 w/Kinston) I don't have an emotional connection with anyone on the field. It helps me make an even call but in some instances can fracture your working relationship with managers or players, which can make your job tougher. Its only happened once but the manager and I sat down and worked it out without any issues. Generally just being on the field and in the clubhouse, regularly watching BP goes a long way in limiting those kinds of issues.
How would you rate your home ballpark?
Historic Grainger Stadium is truly one of the gems of the Carolina League. It was built in the 1940's and had significant renovations completed in 2002, so the money being out back in to it has kept in stellar shape. We have been an Indians affiliate for 25 years and legends have played here like Paul Shuey, Jim Thome, Manny Ramirez C.C. Sabathia etc. The players love it because Grainger's playing surface is widely regarded as one of the best in minor league baseball. The press box is a little odd as the radio booths are small and the windows don't open but that's my only minor complaint. http://www.ballparkreviews.com/kinston/kinston.htm
Which Kinston Indians players would you predict will be future major leaguers?
Our pitching staff has been very good and has a few future major leaguers. Drew Pomeranz will certainly get a shot. A closer out of the University of Arizona, Preston Guilmet has been lock down and should get his chance at the upper levels as well. The Indians pitching staff is incredibly young but almost all of them have been impressive-Clayton Cook and Giovanni Soto (not the Cub, its spelled differently) both project as solid back of the rotation type guys at the big league level. As far as dark horse candidates go, if Adam Abraham can get back to his early season form, he has great power and is a former hockey player in the OHL so he has the athleticism to do good things at third base. Also, Colorado boy Tyler Sturdevant has been very good this season. The reliever from Littleton has been solid most of his career; He will have to have something happen soon though, as he is already 25 yrs old. "Sturdie" has been impressing the scouts lately and is one of the nicest guys on the team. If he is blocked in Cleveland it would not surprise me if another team asks to have him thrown in in some kind of deal at some point.
What advice you would give to aspiring baseball announcers?
First commit. It takes a huge sacrifice so decide wholeheartedly its what you want to do before going after it. Be willing to intern for a year or two. Get as many on air opportunities as possible, this is the key to improving. Also, listen to yourself. This can be one of the most painful experiences because you are often harder on yourself than anyone else but that allows you to catch some flaws others wont hear. Finally, network. People are the biggest reason for hirings in this business. Pros can help your career by offering advice on your work and serve as references.
Back...But Not My Fault
A lot happened this week that I wanted to write about.
However, this blogging network had technical issues and I couldn't get on this site.
Well, apparently it is back.
I'll be writing a lot tomorrow and the next few days.
I have to write a story today on Dan Sileo, a sports talk show host in Tampa. Just to bring everyone up to speed on my latest book project, I'm writing a book called "Sports Talk...The Personality Behind the Personalities." David Brody and I are collaborating on the book which will be released later this year by Max Q Publishing, a company based in Nebraska which published my book, "More Turf Tales...Taking the Serious Out of Sports."
Anyway, you can get that book and check out the other books from Max Q at www.maxq4u.com.
So I'm trying to write whenever I can on the baseball blog but I'm also occupied with the time consuming "Sports Talk" project.
However, this blogging network had technical issues and I couldn't get on this site.
Well, apparently it is back.
I'll be writing a lot tomorrow and the next few days.
I have to write a story today on Dan Sileo, a sports talk show host in Tampa. Just to bring everyone up to speed on my latest book project, I'm writing a book called "Sports Talk...The Personality Behind the Personalities." David Brody and I are collaborating on the book which will be released later this year by Max Q Publishing, a company based in Nebraska which published my book, "More Turf Tales...Taking the Serious Out of Sports."
Anyway, you can get that book and check out the other books from Max Q at www.maxq4u.com.
So I'm trying to write whenever I can on the baseball blog but I'm also occupied with the time consuming "Sports Talk" project.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Jeet-O-Meter #16
The demise of Derek Jeter has been greatly exaggerated. Has he slowed a bit? Probably, he is 36. But is he finished? No way.
Jeter today in the Yankees 12-5 win over the Rangers collected 4 hits, 2 of which were homers. He knocked in 3 runs, scored twice and stole a base.
His average is up to .276 and as we update the Jeet-O-Meter he now has 2,960 lifetime hits, just 40 away from 3,000. Finished? I think not. What, he suddenly has forgotten how to hit? He doesn't know how to adjust. Trust me, and I've said it all along, Jeter will be fine. He's the least of the Yankees worries.
Meanwhile, here are a few guys and their current averages. Are these guys done?
Dustin Pedroia .236
Justin Morneau .202
Albert Pujols .248
Carl Crawford .211
Nick Markakis .227
Derek Lee .233
Ian Kinsler .209
Magglio Ordonez .170
Jason Bay .241
Adam LaRoche .196
Carlos Lee .228
Andrew McCutcheon .228
Carlos Gonzalez .235
Vernon Wells .179
Ryan Ludwick .195.
The point being, guys do get off to slow starts. But everybody seems to want to say Jeter is finished after a subpar April. Come on. Look at the track record, not only for Jeter but the guys listed above.
Jeter today in the Yankees 12-5 win over the Rangers collected 4 hits, 2 of which were homers. He knocked in 3 runs, scored twice and stole a base.
His average is up to .276 and as we update the Jeet-O-Meter he now has 2,960 lifetime hits, just 40 away from 3,000. Finished? I think not. What, he suddenly has forgotten how to hit? He doesn't know how to adjust. Trust me, and I've said it all along, Jeter will be fine. He's the least of the Yankees worries.
Meanwhile, here are a few guys and their current averages. Are these guys done?
Dustin Pedroia .236
Justin Morneau .202
Albert Pujols .248
Carl Crawford .211
Nick Markakis .227
Derek Lee .233
Ian Kinsler .209
Magglio Ordonez .170
Jason Bay .241
Adam LaRoche .196
Carlos Lee .228
Andrew McCutcheon .228
Carlos Gonzalez .235
Vernon Wells .179
Ryan Ludwick .195.
The point being, guys do get off to slow starts. But everybody seems to want to say Jeter is finished after a subpar April. Come on. Look at the track record, not only for Jeter but the guys listed above.
Ozzie On The Hot Seat?
The season is just five weeks old and there haven't been any managerial firings...yet.
Who will be the first manager to go?
Well, he may be polarizing and he may have a World Series title on his resume but Ozzie Guillen's team flat out reeks. The White Sox are the worst team in baseball heading into today's action with a putrid 12-22 mark and they are already 11 games behind the stunning first place Indians in the AL Central.
The Pale Hose even started the year a respectable 6-3 and since then have gone 6-19.
How long will Chicago go with the brutally honest and volatile Guillen?
Personally, I like Ozzie. I think he's funny and refreshing. But the team is massively underachieving and they are making ME look bad. I picked them to win their division. They are embarrassing me.
I would say that Ozzie Guillen is squarely on the hot seat. Other managers that shouldn't get too comfy include Jim Leyland of the Tigers and the Astros Brad Mills.
Other than that I would say most managers are relatively safe. For now.
Who will be the first manager to go?
Well, he may be polarizing and he may have a World Series title on his resume but Ozzie Guillen's team flat out reeks. The White Sox are the worst team in baseball heading into today's action with a putrid 12-22 mark and they are already 11 games behind the stunning first place Indians in the AL Central.
The Pale Hose even started the year a respectable 6-3 and since then have gone 6-19.
How long will Chicago go with the brutally honest and volatile Guillen?
Personally, I like Ozzie. I think he's funny and refreshing. But the team is massively underachieving and they are making ME look bad. I picked them to win their division. They are embarrassing me.
I would say that Ozzie Guillen is squarely on the hot seat. Other managers that shouldn't get too comfy include Jim Leyland of the Tigers and the Astros Brad Mills.
Other than that I would say most managers are relatively safe. For now.
Yanks Not That Good
As presently constructed, the Yankees are not a very good ball club. Barring any trades, this team will struggle just to make the playoffs.
There are several factors why this team is not going to win a World Series with this present cast.
The problems are many. Let's begin with the starting pitching staff.
CC Sabathia is good but he's not been as dominant as he has been in the past. He's only 30 but has a lot of mileage in that left arm.
A.J. Burnett is an enigma. He has pitched alright this year but he's not a guy you can truly count on. He's up and down and inconsistent.
No Phillip Hughes as he battles a mysterious arm ailment.
Ivan Nova is an unproven rookie and Bartolo Colon has seen better days. Who knows when he'll break down.
They need starting pitching badly.
The bullpen is alright but they could use another lefty. Boone Logan has regressed from last year and Rafael Soriano, who was great last year as the Rays closer, has stunk it up this year as Mariano Rivera's set up man. As for Rivera, well, he's the same as always and Yankee fans thank God every day for that.
The team is aging. Derek Jeter is having his worst season at 36. A-Rod will be 36 in July. Mark Teixeira is 31. The only infielder in his prime is Robinson Cano.
The DH, Jorge Posada has seen better days. No longer a catcher Posada is hitting just .146. He'll be 40 in August.
The Yankees need to get younger over the next few years. Right now they are old and looking it. And it's only May.
General Manager Brian Cashman needs to work some trade magic this summer if the Yankees are to make it to the postseason and then make a run. First and foremost they need pitching. And it would also behoove them to try to get younger for the future.
So while the Yankees are in first place for the time being, the Rays are fast approaching and the Red Sox, despite their phlegmatic start, are just 4 games back. It could be a long summer for the Yankees.
There are several factors why this team is not going to win a World Series with this present cast.
The problems are many. Let's begin with the starting pitching staff.
CC Sabathia is good but he's not been as dominant as he has been in the past. He's only 30 but has a lot of mileage in that left arm.
A.J. Burnett is an enigma. He has pitched alright this year but he's not a guy you can truly count on. He's up and down and inconsistent.
No Phillip Hughes as he battles a mysterious arm ailment.
Ivan Nova is an unproven rookie and Bartolo Colon has seen better days. Who knows when he'll break down.
They need starting pitching badly.
The bullpen is alright but they could use another lefty. Boone Logan has regressed from last year and Rafael Soriano, who was great last year as the Rays closer, has stunk it up this year as Mariano Rivera's set up man. As for Rivera, well, he's the same as always and Yankee fans thank God every day for that.
The team is aging. Derek Jeter is having his worst season at 36. A-Rod will be 36 in July. Mark Teixeira is 31. The only infielder in his prime is Robinson Cano.
The DH, Jorge Posada has seen better days. No longer a catcher Posada is hitting just .146. He'll be 40 in August.
The Yankees need to get younger over the next few years. Right now they are old and looking it. And it's only May.
General Manager Brian Cashman needs to work some trade magic this summer if the Yankees are to make it to the postseason and then make a run. First and foremost they need pitching. And it would also behoove them to try to get younger for the future.
So while the Yankees are in first place for the time being, the Rays are fast approaching and the Red Sox, despite their phlegmatic start, are just 4 games back. It could be a long summer for the Yankees.
Happy Mother's Day!
Happy Mother's Day to all the mom's out there. Without you nobody would be here would they?
While I think Mother's Day is a great holiday, I'm not a fan of it today. Why? Because our old guy's baseball league doesn't play today. We don't play on Easter or Mother's Day.
The rough thing about that today is that it's a beautiful day here in the Mile High City and I'm in the mood to play baseball. We've had cold and crappy weather so far this spring and this is the first really nice Sunday of the year. Oh well, I guess we have to keep the moms all happy.
We do play on Father's Day however and that is when we usually draw our biggest crowd. We usually get into double digits on Father's Day.
Two years ago on Father's Day, I noticed we had a pretty good gathering to watch our game. I mentioned it to our catcher, Jim O'Connor and he said, "We usually get our biggest crowd on Father's Day. That's the one day of the season when the family feels obligated to go watch dad play."
By the way, if you have any interest at all in my old guys team, the Orioles, feel free to go to my website and click on the Orioles Baseball page. The website is www.turfsports.net then scroll towards the bottom.
Again, Happy Mother's Day!
And PLAY BALL!...next week. Ugh.
While I think Mother's Day is a great holiday, I'm not a fan of it today. Why? Because our old guy's baseball league doesn't play today. We don't play on Easter or Mother's Day.
The rough thing about that today is that it's a beautiful day here in the Mile High City and I'm in the mood to play baseball. We've had cold and crappy weather so far this spring and this is the first really nice Sunday of the year. Oh well, I guess we have to keep the moms all happy.
We do play on Father's Day however and that is when we usually draw our biggest crowd. We usually get into double digits on Father's Day.
Two years ago on Father's Day, I noticed we had a pretty good gathering to watch our game. I mentioned it to our catcher, Jim O'Connor and he said, "We usually get our biggest crowd on Father's Day. That's the one day of the season when the family feels obligated to go watch dad play."
By the way, if you have any interest at all in my old guys team, the Orioles, feel free to go to my website and click on the Orioles Baseball page. The website is www.turfsports.net then scroll towards the bottom.
Again, Happy Mother's Day!
And PLAY BALL!...next week. Ugh.
Just Short
Andre Ethier's hitting streak came to a close last night against the Mets. Ethier went 0-4 in the Dodgers 4-2 loss at Citi Field. Still seems weird to say Citi Field when referring to the Mets instead of Shea Stadium.
Ethier's streak ends at an impressive 30, just one short of Willie Davis' team record of 31 in 1969.
I was going to write that Davis could breathe a little easier now since his record is safe for a while longer. But then, when looking up Davis' stats on baseball-reference.com I found out he died last year, March 9th to be exact. He was 69. For some reason his passing escaped me.
Willie Davis had a great career. He collected 2,561 hits and batted .279 over the course of 18 seasons. He also played on two World Series championship teams with the Dodgers, in 1963 and 1965.
Andre Ethier, with a swing as sweet as cotton candy, at 29 and with a lifetime average of .295, is well on his way to a very memorable career. Like Willie Davis.
Ethier's streak ends at an impressive 30, just one short of Willie Davis' team record of 31 in 1969.
I was going to write that Davis could breathe a little easier now since his record is safe for a while longer. But then, when looking up Davis' stats on baseball-reference.com I found out he died last year, March 9th to be exact. He was 69. For some reason his passing escaped me.
Willie Davis had a great career. He collected 2,561 hits and batted .279 over the course of 18 seasons. He also played on two World Series championship teams with the Dodgers, in 1963 and 1965.
Andre Ethier, with a swing as sweet as cotton candy, at 29 and with a lifetime average of .295, is well on his way to a very memorable career. Like Willie Davis.
Another No-No!
On Tuesday the Twins Francisco Liriano threw a no-hitter at the White Sox and yesterday Justin Verlander of the Tigers threw a no-no at the Blue Jays. It was his second career no-hitter and was more impressive than Liriano's since he walked just one guy while Liriano walked 6.
Verlander was flirting with a perfecto until he walked a man in the 8th. Just 28 years old, how many more no-hitters does he have in him? One? Two? Five more and he would tie Nolan Ryan, six to pass him. I don't think that's going to happen. But I wouldn't be surprised if he throws another one or two.
Verlander was flirting with a perfecto until he walked a man in the 8th. Just 28 years old, how many more no-hitters does he have in him? One? Two? Five more and he would tie Nolan Ryan, six to pass him. I don't think that's going to happen. But I wouldn't be surprised if he throws another one or two.
Hendu's Call and Paulino
Last night after the Rockies game I got a phone call from an irate individual. It sounded like Earl Weaver on the other end.
There were f-bombs galore and it was a verbal tirade directed, not at me fortunately, but at the Rockies, specifically Rockies pitcher Felipe Paulino.
Ed Henderson was stewing and he wasn't very happy at all. I'd like to write what he said but it wouldn't be very pretty.
Needless to say, Hendu is very frustrated by the Rockies coughing up games late. He was especially harsh on Paulino and I don't blame him.
I'll be honest as honest can be here. Felipe Paulino is wretched. He can't pitch at all. In clutch situations he tenses up and makes bad pitches. He's a loser. I hate to be so harsh but that's a fact. After losing last night's game, 3-2 to the Giants, Paulino this season is a gruesome 0-3 with an ERA of 7.59. He's allowed 18 hits and 5 walks in 10.2 innings of work.
So you think that it's just a bad stretch? Think again. Paulino, in his 4 year career which started with the Astros, is now 6-24 with a bloated ERA of 5.92. He's 27 so it doesn't look like the light bulb is going to go off anytime soon.
But he has great stuff! Who gives a crap? He can't get anybody out. When he comes into a game you can feel the air being sucked out of the team. He's flat out awful and if I were the Rockies braintrust I would release him. Yesterday.
There were f-bombs galore and it was a verbal tirade directed, not at me fortunately, but at the Rockies, specifically Rockies pitcher Felipe Paulino.
Ed Henderson was stewing and he wasn't very happy at all. I'd like to write what he said but it wouldn't be very pretty.
Needless to say, Hendu is very frustrated by the Rockies coughing up games late. He was especially harsh on Paulino and I don't blame him.
I'll be honest as honest can be here. Felipe Paulino is wretched. He can't pitch at all. In clutch situations he tenses up and makes bad pitches. He's a loser. I hate to be so harsh but that's a fact. After losing last night's game, 3-2 to the Giants, Paulino this season is a gruesome 0-3 with an ERA of 7.59. He's allowed 18 hits and 5 walks in 10.2 innings of work.
So you think that it's just a bad stretch? Think again. Paulino, in his 4 year career which started with the Astros, is now 6-24 with a bloated ERA of 5.92. He's 27 so it doesn't look like the light bulb is going to go off anytime soon.
But he has great stuff! Who gives a crap? He can't get anybody out. When he comes into a game you can feel the air being sucked out of the team. He's flat out awful and if I were the Rockies braintrust I would release him. Yesterday.
Demoralizing
For the third straight night, the Rockies lost in their opponents final at-bat. Huston Street coughed up the game Thursday night, giving up 2 solo homers in the 9th to the Diamondbacks who then won in 11.
Friday night Felipe Paulino blew a lead in the 9th to the Giants and last night, in a tie game in the 9th Paulino gagged again.
Every team loses a game in the last inning that they probably should have won. It happens. But when it happens 3 straight games, that just kills a team.
The Rockies have lost 5 of 6 and are falling into bad habits, the same habits that last year cost them dearly. They are losing on the road again, 1-4 on the current trip, losing 1 run games again (their last 4 losses by 1 run) and they are losing games late. That was the formula last year.
The Rockies have certainly cooled off and are struggling right now. They should be in the race all season but it looks like, at this early juncture, that the Wild Card team won't be coming out of the West. The Dodgers, Diamondbacks and Padres stink so it looks like the Giants and Rockies will battle it out for the division.
Meanwhile, if the Giants get Mets shortstop Jose Reyes, that could be the difference.
While it's way too early to panic, what I've seen in the past week from the Rockies makes me think that it's going to be a dogfight in the West this year.
Friday night Felipe Paulino blew a lead in the 9th to the Giants and last night, in a tie game in the 9th Paulino gagged again.
Every team loses a game in the last inning that they probably should have won. It happens. But when it happens 3 straight games, that just kills a team.
The Rockies have lost 5 of 6 and are falling into bad habits, the same habits that last year cost them dearly. They are losing on the road again, 1-4 on the current trip, losing 1 run games again (their last 4 losses by 1 run) and they are losing games late. That was the formula last year.
The Rockies have certainly cooled off and are struggling right now. They should be in the race all season but it looks like, at this early juncture, that the Wild Card team won't be coming out of the West. The Dodgers, Diamondbacks and Padres stink so it looks like the Giants and Rockies will battle it out for the division.
Meanwhile, if the Giants get Mets shortstop Jose Reyes, that could be the difference.
While it's way too early to panic, what I've seen in the past week from the Rockies makes me think that it's going to be a dogfight in the West this year.
Friday, May 6, 2011
The Polo Grounds
I was talking about the bath tub shaped Polo Grounds in the previous post about Willie Mays.
My mom and dad saw games there and loved the place.
I never saw a game there since I wasn't born when the Giants played there and was an infant when the Mets played their first two seasons there.
I also have a friend, Frank Dena, who lives in Virginia now. He grew up a Giants fan and speaks glowingly of the Polo Grounds.
I don't get it. It looks dumpy in pictures to me. And who decided that the field should be shaped like it was. The dimensions were ridiculous. 279 to the left field line with an overhang that made a 250 foot pop fly a homer? Are you serious. Right field was a mere 257 feet away. Right center was 455 feet from home plate and left center was 447. It was so deep to the alleys that the bullpens were on the field in fair play. Center field was 483 feet away or a $5 cab ride. Who thought this place up? Would anyone ever try to come up with a park today with similar dimensions? I think not.
While it was a strange park, I wish I had the chance to see a game there.
Of the old New York ballparks, I would say the Polo Grounds was the most bizarre, Ebbets Field the most intimate and Yankee Stadium the most majestic and breathtaking.
Fortunately for me I was in the old, pre-renovated Yankee Stadium and remember it well. The memories are burned into my head. I wish I could have seen a game at Ebbets Field and the Polo Grounds. I think I would have liked Ebbets better. How about choo?
My mom and dad saw games there and loved the place.
I never saw a game there since I wasn't born when the Giants played there and was an infant when the Mets played their first two seasons there.
I also have a friend, Frank Dena, who lives in Virginia now. He grew up a Giants fan and speaks glowingly of the Polo Grounds.
I don't get it. It looks dumpy in pictures to me. And who decided that the field should be shaped like it was. The dimensions were ridiculous. 279 to the left field line with an overhang that made a 250 foot pop fly a homer? Are you serious. Right field was a mere 257 feet away. Right center was 455 feet from home plate and left center was 447. It was so deep to the alleys that the bullpens were on the field in fair play. Center field was 483 feet away or a $5 cab ride. Who thought this place up? Would anyone ever try to come up with a park today with similar dimensions? I think not.
While it was a strange park, I wish I had the chance to see a game there.
Of the old New York ballparks, I would say the Polo Grounds was the most bizarre, Ebbets Field the most intimate and Yankee Stadium the most majestic and breathtaking.
Fortunately for me I was in the old, pre-renovated Yankee Stadium and remember it well. The memories are burned into my head. I wish I could have seen a game at Ebbets Field and the Polo Grounds. I think I would have liked Ebbets better. How about choo?
Say Hey Kid
From the hard to believe department: Today is Willie Mays birthday. The legendary Hall of Famer is 80. Kind of ironic that Mays was born in the month of May.
Anyway, the reason it is hard to believe he is so old is because we always remember baseball players in their youth and prime. At least I do.
When someone says the name of an old time ballplayer, like Willie Mays, I think of the highlights I've seen. Now, since I'm getting older I think of actual memories of seeing them play. I don't think of Willie Mays as an old guy. I think of him catching a ball in the 1954 World Series in the outer reaches of the Polo Grounds with his back to the infield. I wasn't alive when that happened but I've seen the highlight a million times. I recall Willie Mays playing for the San Francisco Giants when I was a kid and my dad telling me how great he was and is. My dad was a New York Giants fan before they headed west and he loved Willie.
I remember a past his prime Willie Mays in the 1973 World Series playing for the Mets against the A's. He looked old then because he was 42 and I thought that was ancient. Now that I'm in my late 40's I can tell you this. 42 is young!I can see him as a 42 year old player but not at the age of 80.
As for the ballplayer, I don't think there was a better player ever in baseball history. You could make an argument for Babe Ruth since he was also a great pitcher besides being a great slugger. But Babe only played against white counterparts and none of the great black players of the day.
Now I haven't seen every player but I have studied the game intently. Willie could do everything great. He wasn't good at any one thing, he was great at everything. Running, throwing, hitting, hitting for power and fielding. There was nothing he couldn't do great. Who was better than Willie Mays? I would say no one.
If there was a player draft today, and every player who ever played in the Major Leagues was each 20 years old again, who would be your first draft pick? Mine would be Willie Mays, hands down.
I've often wondered how many home runs Mays would have hit if the Giants stayed in New York and he spent his entire career hitting in the Polo Grounds. Built in the shape of a bath tub, left field was just 279 feet away. Center field was 483 feet. So he would have gotten some cheapie homers to left but had some taken away in center. In 1955, when he hit 51 homers, his second highest seasonal total (he hit 52 in 1965), just 22 were hit at the Polo Grounds while 29 came on the road. Maybe he would have had less home runs had the Giants remained in New York. Maybe he would have hit more. Who knows? Perhaps the Giants eventually would have moved into Shea Stadium in 1964 and there would be no such thing as the Mets.
All speculation, the kind of speculation that makes baseball the great and fascinating game that it is.
But what we can be certain of is that Willie Mays is still alive and kicking at the age of 80 but for many, no matter what his age, he'll always be the Say Hey Kid.
Happy Birthday Willie.
Anyway, the reason it is hard to believe he is so old is because we always remember baseball players in their youth and prime. At least I do.
When someone says the name of an old time ballplayer, like Willie Mays, I think of the highlights I've seen. Now, since I'm getting older I think of actual memories of seeing them play. I don't think of Willie Mays as an old guy. I think of him catching a ball in the 1954 World Series in the outer reaches of the Polo Grounds with his back to the infield. I wasn't alive when that happened but I've seen the highlight a million times. I recall Willie Mays playing for the San Francisco Giants when I was a kid and my dad telling me how great he was and is. My dad was a New York Giants fan before they headed west and he loved Willie.
I remember a past his prime Willie Mays in the 1973 World Series playing for the Mets against the A's. He looked old then because he was 42 and I thought that was ancient. Now that I'm in my late 40's I can tell you this. 42 is young!I can see him as a 42 year old player but not at the age of 80.
As for the ballplayer, I don't think there was a better player ever in baseball history. You could make an argument for Babe Ruth since he was also a great pitcher besides being a great slugger. But Babe only played against white counterparts and none of the great black players of the day.
Now I haven't seen every player but I have studied the game intently. Willie could do everything great. He wasn't good at any one thing, he was great at everything. Running, throwing, hitting, hitting for power and fielding. There was nothing he couldn't do great. Who was better than Willie Mays? I would say no one.
If there was a player draft today, and every player who ever played in the Major Leagues was each 20 years old again, who would be your first draft pick? Mine would be Willie Mays, hands down.
I've often wondered how many home runs Mays would have hit if the Giants stayed in New York and he spent his entire career hitting in the Polo Grounds. Built in the shape of a bath tub, left field was just 279 feet away. Center field was 483 feet. So he would have gotten some cheapie homers to left but had some taken away in center. In 1955, when he hit 51 homers, his second highest seasonal total (he hit 52 in 1965), just 22 were hit at the Polo Grounds while 29 came on the road. Maybe he would have had less home runs had the Giants remained in New York. Maybe he would have hit more. Who knows? Perhaps the Giants eventually would have moved into Shea Stadium in 1964 and there would be no such thing as the Mets.
All speculation, the kind of speculation that makes baseball the great and fascinating game that it is.
But what we can be certain of is that Willie Mays is still alive and kicking at the age of 80 but for many, no matter what his age, he'll always be the Say Hey Kid.
Happy Birthday Willie.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
How About a Bake Sale?
How in the world does it come to this?
The Wall Street Journal reported today that come the end of the month, the Dodgers might not make payroll.
One of the storied franchises in all of baseball, playing in a major market, might be so broke they can't pay their players.
Wow. Frank McCourt is some businessman isn't he?
I saw a quote where someone said that McCourt was in trouble because he ran out of other people's money.
I don't care if the Dodgers get paid or not except for one guy. I want Donnie Baseball to get his scratch.
The Wall Street Journal reported today that come the end of the month, the Dodgers might not make payroll.
One of the storied franchises in all of baseball, playing in a major market, might be so broke they can't pay their players.
Wow. Frank McCourt is some businessman isn't he?
I saw a quote where someone said that McCourt was in trouble because he ran out of other people's money.
I don't care if the Dodgers get paid or not except for one guy. I want Donnie Baseball to get his scratch.
Jeet-O-Meter #15
Time to update the Jeet-O-Meter.
The last time we updated the meter on April 26th, Derek Jeter had 21 hits, leaving him 53 away from 3,000.
Since then, the Yankees captain has collected just 5 hits bringing his total to 2,952 for his career. For those mathematically challenged, that's 48 hits way from 3-grand.
The Yanks lost in Detroit tonight 4-2.
The last time we updated the meter on April 26th, Derek Jeter had 21 hits, leaving him 53 away from 3,000.
Since then, the Yankees captain has collected just 5 hits bringing his total to 2,952 for his career. For those mathematically challenged, that's 48 hits way from 3-grand.
The Yanks lost in Detroit tonight 4-2.
Drunken Indian
Bad news out of Cleveland, perhaps the only bad news so far this year for the surprising Tribe.
Outfielder Shin-Soo Choo was arrested on DUI charges after he blew .201 on the breathalyzer. Ohio's limit is .08.
Choo becomes the 6th Major League player arrested for drunk driving this year, joining Austin Kearns, Adam Kennedy, Coco Crisp, Miguel Cabrera and Derek Lowe.
These guys make millions and they can't afford a driver or a cab? Horrible and ignorant judgement for sure. Don't these idiots remember Cardinals pitcher Josh Hancock who killed himself in a drunk driving accident? What about Angels rookie pitcher Nick Adenhard who was killed by a drunk driver two years ago? Don't these guys think? Even a little bit?
So while baseball suspends White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen two games for tweeting, nothing seems to happen to these drunks who put other people's lives in danger. The fact that Miguel Cabrera misses zero games for drunk driving and belligerent and embarrassing behavior this spring tells me baseball doesn't truly care. But oh boy, criticize an ump or tweet something and you'll be sitting out some games Mister.
Outfielder Shin-Soo Choo was arrested on DUI charges after he blew .201 on the breathalyzer. Ohio's limit is .08.
Choo becomes the 6th Major League player arrested for drunk driving this year, joining Austin Kearns, Adam Kennedy, Coco Crisp, Miguel Cabrera and Derek Lowe.
These guys make millions and they can't afford a driver or a cab? Horrible and ignorant judgement for sure. Don't these idiots remember Cardinals pitcher Josh Hancock who killed himself in a drunk driving accident? What about Angels rookie pitcher Nick Adenhard who was killed by a drunk driver two years ago? Don't these guys think? Even a little bit?
So while baseball suspends White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen two games for tweeting, nothing seems to happen to these drunks who put other people's lives in danger. The fact that Miguel Cabrera misses zero games for drunk driving and belligerent and embarrassing behavior this spring tells me baseball doesn't truly care. But oh boy, criticize an ump or tweet something and you'll be sitting out some games Mister.
The Red Sox Patsies
The Red Sox beat the Angels again tonight, 7-3, and now are just one game under .500 at 14-15.
After a horrible start the Bostons are climbing out of the hole they dug for themselves. They can thank their punching bags, the Angels.
The Red Sox are 6-0 against the Halos who apparently shrivel up in the fetal position when they hear the word Boston.
Come on Angels. Sack up. To be 0-6 against a team that has struggled this year is embarrassing and pathetic. I really hate the Angels right now.
After a horrible start the Bostons are climbing out of the hole they dug for themselves. They can thank their punching bags, the Angels.
The Red Sox are 6-0 against the Halos who apparently shrivel up in the fetal position when they hear the word Boston.
Come on Angels. Sack up. To be 0-6 against a team that has struggled this year is embarrassing and pathetic. I really hate the Angels right now.
No No In Chicago
Congrats to Twins lefty Francisco Liriano for no-hitting the White Sox in Chicago tonight. Minnesota won the game 1-0 so the pressure on Liriano was not just the no-hitter but also winning the game. A bloop and a blast and the entire performance would have been wiped out. No margin for error for sure.
Jason Kubel's 4th inning homer was all Liriano needed. He struck out 2 batters in his first career complete game. I'm a little hesitant to give Liriano's no-hitter the "masterpiece" title though since he did walk 6 batters. Still, a no-hitter is a no-hitter.
I guess he's healthy again after struggling with arm troubles the past few seasons. Anyway, not only was it the 5th no-no in Twins history, more importantly it was a win for Minnesota, a win they desperately needed. The victory snapped a 6-game slide.
Jason Kubel's 4th inning homer was all Liriano needed. He struck out 2 batters in his first career complete game. I'm a little hesitant to give Liriano's no-hitter the "masterpiece" title though since he did walk 6 batters. Still, a no-hitter is a no-hitter.
I guess he's healthy again after struggling with arm troubles the past few seasons. Anyway, not only was it the 5th no-no in Twins history, more importantly it was a win for Minnesota, a win they desperately needed. The victory snapped a 6-game slide.
Halfway To Joe D.
Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier extended his hitting steak to 28 last night with an infield single in LA's 5-2 win over the Cubs.
28 games is a long streak. To think he has to hit in another 28 just to tie Joe DiMaggio's record of 56 his hard to fathom.
Can Ethier do it?
I never like to say someone can't do something. If it's been done once, it can be done again, no?
Obviously it is a longshot. But I'm not of the belief that it is an impossible record to break.
I'd anxious to see how long Ethier can keep it going. The Dodgers team record is 31 held by Tommy Davis in 1969. Let's see if he can get that. Right now there is some pressure on Ethier. Imagine how that pressure will be turned up if he gets real close.
Ethier has one of the sweetest looking swings in the game. I'd love to see him break Joe D's record. It probably won't happen but, you never know.
28 games is a long streak. To think he has to hit in another 28 just to tie Joe DiMaggio's record of 56 his hard to fathom.
Can Ethier do it?
I never like to say someone can't do something. If it's been done once, it can be done again, no?
Obviously it is a longshot. But I'm not of the belief that it is an impossible record to break.
I'd anxious to see how long Ethier can keep it going. The Dodgers team record is 31 held by Tommy Davis in 1969. Let's see if he can get that. Right now there is some pressure on Ethier. Imagine how that pressure will be turned up if he gets real close.
Ethier has one of the sweetest looking swings in the game. I'd love to see him break Joe D's record. It probably won't happen but, you never know.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Just Like Alaska
Now I know what it feels like to play in the Alaskan Summer League.
Had an old guy's baseball game today. We play every Sunday except for Easter, Mother's Day, Memorial Day and July 4th weekend. Why we don't play on July 4th weekend, I don't know. I guess guys would rather have cookouts with their stupid families instead of playing ball. I digress.
Today's game started at 9 a.m. Game time temperature? 37 freaking degrees. 37! Also, the field we played at, D'Evelyn High School in the shadows of the Rocky Mountains, always has windy conditions. Gusty winds. Plus, the field is always in terrible condition. The infield is rough and the grass choppy. Just a bad surface.
Anyway, I'm in a salty mood since we lost to the Mustangs 13-12 when they scored 5 in the last inning to win. Just a real crappy loss (see April 28, 2010 post).
At least I got a hit off a former Major League pitcher Brian Fisher, who pitched for the Yankees and Pirates. The base hit knocked in a run. This proves my theory. I should have been in the big leagues after college instead of slumming around radio stations after college. The scouts blew it big time!
Oh well. Get 'em next time. And when we do play again I hope it's warmer in two weeks than 37 damn degrees.
Time to head into the radio station for our Sunday night show. Tune in to 710 KNUS or listen online at www.710knus.com. Thanks. Later.
Had an old guy's baseball game today. We play every Sunday except for Easter, Mother's Day, Memorial Day and July 4th weekend. Why we don't play on July 4th weekend, I don't know. I guess guys would rather have cookouts with their stupid families instead of playing ball. I digress.
Today's game started at 9 a.m. Game time temperature? 37 freaking degrees. 37! Also, the field we played at, D'Evelyn High School in the shadows of the Rocky Mountains, always has windy conditions. Gusty winds. Plus, the field is always in terrible condition. The infield is rough and the grass choppy. Just a bad surface.
Anyway, I'm in a salty mood since we lost to the Mustangs 13-12 when they scored 5 in the last inning to win. Just a real crappy loss (see April 28, 2010 post).
At least I got a hit off a former Major League pitcher Brian Fisher, who pitched for the Yankees and Pirates. The base hit knocked in a run. This proves my theory. I should have been in the big leagues after college instead of slumming around radio stations after college. The scouts blew it big time!
Oh well. Get 'em next time. And when we do play again I hope it's warmer in two weeks than 37 damn degrees.
Time to head into the radio station for our Sunday night show. Tune in to 710 KNUS or listen online at www.710knus.com. Thanks. Later.
Didn't See This Coming
How bad are the Twins?
Minnesota got their teeth kicked in today by the Royals, 10-3 in KC. The Royals have been surprisingly good and they'll only get better. They may have the most stocked farm system in the game and they are probably two or three years away from being a formidable contender.
The Twins have had issues with Joe Mauer, who has lost leg strength and is on the DL. Justin Morneau, coming off the concussion that cost him most of last year, hit just his first home run of the season today.
The pitching is horrible and Joe Nathan, coming off Tommy John surgery a year ago, is not pitching up to his standards and lost his closers role. But there haven't been many closing opportunities.
I'm not counting them out just yet but they are 10-games out and riding a 6-game losing streak. This team better get crackalackin real soon or it will be a long summer in Minnesota.
Minnesota got their teeth kicked in today by the Royals, 10-3 in KC. The Royals have been surprisingly good and they'll only get better. They may have the most stocked farm system in the game and they are probably two or three years away from being a formidable contender.
The Twins have had issues with Joe Mauer, who has lost leg strength and is on the DL. Justin Morneau, coming off the concussion that cost him most of last year, hit just his first home run of the season today.
The pitching is horrible and Joe Nathan, coming off Tommy John surgery a year ago, is not pitching up to his standards and lost his closers role. But there haven't been many closing opportunities.
I'm not counting them out just yet but they are 10-games out and riding a 6-game losing streak. This team better get crackalackin real soon or it will be a long summer in Minnesota.
Phew!
I saw that Jered Weaver, off to a 6-0 start for the Angels was scratched from his start today in Tampa Bay.
Immediate thought: The Angels are done if he's hurt.
Fortunately for the California Angels, Weaver just has a stomach virus and is expected to go against the Red Sox tomorrow at Fenway. That's the kind of luck the Bostons have had so far.
And indeed I did say California Angels. Just felt like going old school there. Bobby Knoop would be proud.
Immediate thought: The Angels are done if he's hurt.
Fortunately for the California Angels, Weaver just has a stomach virus and is expected to go against the Red Sox tomorrow at Fenway. That's the kind of luck the Bostons have had so far.
And indeed I did say California Angels. Just felt like going old school there. Bobby Knoop would be proud.
The Tribe
The first day of May and the amazing Indians picked up where they left off in April. Cleveland has now won 6 in a row and Detroit has dropped 6 straight as the Indians got past the Motor City Kitties today 5-4.
After dropping their first two home games at Jacobs Field this season, the Clevelanders have rattled off 13 consecutive home wins. And yes, I called it Jacobs Field. I don't know what the hell corporation stuck their name on there by giving the club cash but I do know this. That company isn't paying me to say their name. So I'll call it by its original name, Jacobs Field.
The Indians are 19-8 and on our show website, www.turfsports.net, on the baseball predictions page, nobody picked Cleveland higher than fourth. Even die hard Indians fan Don Pablo Apodaca picked the Indians to finish in last place.
How long will this run continue for the Indians? I don't know but so far they are the surprise team of the season and I hope they keep it going.
As for the Tigers, I have a hard time pulling for them since I can't stand their manager. I'm glad they are playing lousy baseball and are just 12-16. That city deserves a better manager than the overrated Jim Leyland.
After dropping their first two home games at Jacobs Field this season, the Clevelanders have rattled off 13 consecutive home wins. And yes, I called it Jacobs Field. I don't know what the hell corporation stuck their name on there by giving the club cash but I do know this. That company isn't paying me to say their name. So I'll call it by its original name, Jacobs Field.
The Indians are 19-8 and on our show website, www.turfsports.net, on the baseball predictions page, nobody picked Cleveland higher than fourth. Even die hard Indians fan Don Pablo Apodaca picked the Indians to finish in last place.
How long will this run continue for the Indians? I don't know but so far they are the surprise team of the season and I hope they keep it going.
As for the Tigers, I have a hard time pulling for them since I can't stand their manager. I'm glad they are playing lousy baseball and are just 12-16. That city deserves a better manager than the overrated Jim Leyland.
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