Happy New Year's Eve everybody!
This will be my last post of the year.
Last year at this time I was in El Paso, Texas at the Sun Bowl as Notre Dame whipped up on Miami. This year's bowl game for the Irish was...not good.
Anyway, every December 31st I am reminded of my very first hockey game on this date in 1972.
My dad took me to Madison Square Garden to watch the St. Louis Blues against the Rangers. The Rangers, with Eddie Giacomin in goal, beat the Blues 6-1. I remember things so vividly in my memory. I was just 10.
The reason the date is seared into my memory bank is because the following day we learned of the plane crash that killed the great Roberto Clemente. The Pirates Hall of Famer, who had just collected his 3,000th and final hit a few month's earlier at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, was on a relief mission to help earthquake victims in Nicaragua. The plane was overloaded with supplies and crashed in the ocean shortly after take off in Puerto Rico. His body was never recovered.
That was 39 years ago today. My first hockey game and the last day of Roberto Clemente's life. It doesn't seem like it was that long ago yet it does. Strange.
Anyway, Happy New Year to all. Please be safe and I look forward to another year of writing about baseball on this blog.
Thank you!!!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Rockies Hitting 20
Can you believe it? 2012 will mark the Colorado Rockies 20th season. With that in mind, I think it is time that the Rockies held an Old-Timers Day.
The Rockies have a history. Certainly not the history of teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs or those tradition-laden teams but they can be proud of the history they have. They've only made the playoffs three times but do have a World Series appearance to their credit.
Some great players have donned Rockies uniforms. Larry Walker and Andres Galarraga jump immediately to mind. Of course Todd Helton is the greatest Rockie player of all so far but since he's still active you can't label him an Old-Timer yet.
In addition to Walker and Galarraga, I'm sure fans would love to see an Old Timers Day at Coors Field with guys like Walt Weiss, Vinny Castilla, Dante Bichette, Ellis Burks, Darren Holmes, David Nied, Kevin Ritz, Don Baylor, Pedro Astacio and many others suiting up and taking a bow.
Many former Rockies players are still active or preoccupied like Yankees Manager Joe Girardi. So they couldn't make it. But a lot of former Rockies would be available to celebrate the franchise's 20th season.
I would love to see a Rockies Old Timers Day. How about you?
The Rockies have a history. Certainly not the history of teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs or those tradition-laden teams but they can be proud of the history they have. They've only made the playoffs three times but do have a World Series appearance to their credit.
Some great players have donned Rockies uniforms. Larry Walker and Andres Galarraga jump immediately to mind. Of course Todd Helton is the greatest Rockie player of all so far but since he's still active you can't label him an Old-Timer yet.
In addition to Walker and Galarraga, I'm sure fans would love to see an Old Timers Day at Coors Field with guys like Walt Weiss, Vinny Castilla, Dante Bichette, Ellis Burks, Darren Holmes, David Nied, Kevin Ritz, Don Baylor, Pedro Astacio and many others suiting up and taking a bow.
Many former Rockies players are still active or preoccupied like Yankees Manager Joe Girardi. So they couldn't make it. But a lot of former Rockies would be available to celebrate the franchise's 20th season.
I would love to see a Rockies Old Timers Day. How about you?
Torrealba Update
Catcher Yorvit Torrealba has been handed a 66-game suspension by the Venezuelan League for shoving an umpire in the face mask after striking out. The suspension insures that Torrealba can't play in the Venezuelan League next season.
Torrealba was contrite following the incident and he apologized to the umpire after the game. That's good but too late. You cannot be striking umpires. Period.
Fortunately for Torrealba, the suspension in Venezuela carries no weight in the Major Leagues. But it should. I would like to see Major League Baseball suspend Torrealba for his actions. It would send a message that if you play organized baseball anywhere on the planet your despicable actions could have repercussions.
Torrealba was contrite following the incident and he apologized to the umpire after the game. That's good but too late. You cannot be striking umpires. Period.
Fortunately for Torrealba, the suspension in Venezuela carries no weight in the Major Leagues. But it should. I would like to see Major League Baseball suspend Torrealba for his actions. It would send a message that if you play organized baseball anywhere on the planet your despicable actions could have repercussions.
Shrinking Citi
The Mets Citi Field staff is busy this off-season bringing in the fences at Citi Field to make it more "home run" friendly. This after complaints by hitters claiming it was too tough to hit round trippers in the Mets three year old ballyard.
I can't recall pitchers complaining thought.
As an example, Mets third baseman David Wright has been hampered by the distant dimensions of the new park.
The last three seasons he played at Shea Stadium, Wright hit 13, 16 and 21 homers for a total of 50 from 2006-2009.
In his three seasons playing at Citi Field, Wright has hit 5, 12 and 5 home runs for a total of 22. Hence the bringing in of the fences.
Personally, I much prefer to see games played where it is tough to hit home runs. I would rather see a game at Petco Park or Citi Field (pre-fence shortening) than to see a game in a bandbox like Citizens Bank Ball Park or Camden Yards.
If you build your team around pitching and defense then a big ballpark can be a tremendous home field advantage. Since you can't win without pitching, no matter how many sluggers you have, a big ballyard would entice pitchers to sign and stay with a team that has a pitcher-friendly ballpark.
Since I'm talking about the Mets and Citi Field, let me say this for the record. I actually miss Shea Stadium. When I see the Mets playing in Citi Field it doesn't look right. I think, "Why are the Mets playing in someone else's ballpark?" To me the Mets and Shea were perfect for each other. Crappy team in a crappy stadium. They just fit each other and I can't get used to the Mets not playing at Shea anymore.
I can't recall pitchers complaining thought.
As an example, Mets third baseman David Wright has been hampered by the distant dimensions of the new park.
The last three seasons he played at Shea Stadium, Wright hit 13, 16 and 21 homers for a total of 50 from 2006-2009.
In his three seasons playing at Citi Field, Wright has hit 5, 12 and 5 home runs for a total of 22. Hence the bringing in of the fences.
Personally, I much prefer to see games played where it is tough to hit home runs. I would rather see a game at Petco Park or Citi Field (pre-fence shortening) than to see a game in a bandbox like Citizens Bank Ball Park or Camden Yards.
If you build your team around pitching and defense then a big ballpark can be a tremendous home field advantage. Since you can't win without pitching, no matter how many sluggers you have, a big ballyard would entice pitchers to sign and stay with a team that has a pitcher-friendly ballpark.
Since I'm talking about the Mets and Citi Field, let me say this for the record. I actually miss Shea Stadium. When I see the Mets playing in Citi Field it doesn't look right. I think, "Why are the Mets playing in someone else's ballpark?" To me the Mets and Shea were perfect for each other. Crappy team in a crappy stadium. They just fit each other and I can't get used to the Mets not playing at Shea anymore.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
The Umpire Was A Thief!
I just saw, on MLB Network, the final out of the 1967 World Series. Bob Gibson of the Cardinals struck out George Scott of the Red Sox to end Game 7 to give St. Louis the championship.
It is said that if you see a movie 10 times you'll see something new each time. I've seen this clip many times. Scott strikes out, cue the celebration. But tonight I saw something new in the highlight and I don't know how it escaped me in the past. Not only did I see it but I couldn't believe it.
While the Cardinals celebrated their World Series championship in typical jump up and down fashion between the mound and third base line, someone in a dark suit ran to the group, jumped up and stole the hat off the head of one of the Cardinals and kept running.
Who was that? I figured it could have only been a fan or the third base umpire. I looked up the box score on www.baseballreference.com and found that the third base ump that day was Augie Donatelli. I then looked him up on wikipedia and here is what it said at the bottom of his bio...
Following Game 7 of the 1967 World Series, Donatelli was seen running off the field from his position at third base with the hats of two members of the victorious St. Louis Cardinals in his hands. The picture was picked up by the Associated Press and ran in newspapers from coast to coast the next day.
I only saw him grab one hat. Still, it was very bizarre to see and I can't imagine something like that happening today. The umpire would be fired I would think in a heartbeat, not to mention losing his credibility.
Augie Donatelli died in Florida at the age of 75 or 76 depending on which obituary you read. By all accounts a great umpire...and a cap thief!
It is said that if you see a movie 10 times you'll see something new each time. I've seen this clip many times. Scott strikes out, cue the celebration. But tonight I saw something new in the highlight and I don't know how it escaped me in the past. Not only did I see it but I couldn't believe it.
While the Cardinals celebrated their World Series championship in typical jump up and down fashion between the mound and third base line, someone in a dark suit ran to the group, jumped up and stole the hat off the head of one of the Cardinals and kept running.
Who was that? I figured it could have only been a fan or the third base umpire. I looked up the box score on www.baseballreference.com and found that the third base ump that day was Augie Donatelli. I then looked him up on wikipedia and here is what it said at the bottom of his bio...
Following Game 7 of the 1967 World Series, Donatelli was seen running off the field from his position at third base with the hats of two members of the victorious St. Louis Cardinals in his hands. The picture was picked up by the Associated Press and ran in newspapers from coast to coast the next day.
I only saw him grab one hat. Still, it was very bizarre to see and I can't imagine something like that happening today. The umpire would be fired I would think in a heartbeat, not to mention losing his credibility.
Augie Donatelli died in Florida at the age of 75 or 76 depending on which obituary you read. By all accounts a great umpire...and a cap thief!
Beltran Signs
Carlos Beltran is a Cardinal, signing a 2-year deal worth 26-million dollars. He should be the Cards Opening Day rightfielder, if he doesn't get hurt in spring training.
I would predict that Carlos meanders through this season. Then next year, in hopes of landing a new deal, he displays the talent that allowed him to hit .300 with 22-homers with 84 RBI's.
Do I sound cynical?
I would predict that Carlos meanders through this season. Then next year, in hopes of landing a new deal, he displays the talent that allowed him to hit .300 with 22-homers with 84 RBI's.
Do I sound cynical?
Conlin
For much of my life I've read Bill Conlin, the Hall of Fame baseball writer from Philadelphia.
I used to get my hands on the Philadelphia Daily News and would eagerly read Conlin. I got a chance to meet him a few times in press boxes. He seemed a tad cranky to me and somewhat pompous, but I always admired his talent. He was also a panelist for a while on ESPN's sports reporters show.
Anyway, I would never suspect that he was a child molester.
Several people have come out and said that Conlin sexually abused them when they were kids in the 60's and 70's.
Conlin, now 77, retired from the paper this past Tuesday and has hired a lawyer to defend these heinous accusations.
If true, then he should be yanked out of the Hall of Fame and suffer the full consequences of the law. With seven people accusing Conlin, it seems as if the accusations have merit. I would find it hard to believe that so many people would go after a 77-year old man for something that didn't happen 35 or 40 years ago. If one person came forth, maybe they just hold a grudge or are looking for a payout. But seven people? It doesn't look good for Conlin does it?
With the Jerry Sandusky case at Penn State and talk of a cover up and the Bernie Fine case at Syracuse, it seems as if people are not as afraid to come forward as they may have been.
I don't care how old someone is or how long ago something sinister happened. I have no sympathy or good feelings towards anyone who harms a child and most right thinking people agree with me.
Awful story this Conlin thing, awful.
I used to get my hands on the Philadelphia Daily News and would eagerly read Conlin. I got a chance to meet him a few times in press boxes. He seemed a tad cranky to me and somewhat pompous, but I always admired his talent. He was also a panelist for a while on ESPN's sports reporters show.
Anyway, I would never suspect that he was a child molester.
Several people have come out and said that Conlin sexually abused them when they were kids in the 60's and 70's.
Conlin, now 77, retired from the paper this past Tuesday and has hired a lawyer to defend these heinous accusations.
If true, then he should be yanked out of the Hall of Fame and suffer the full consequences of the law. With seven people accusing Conlin, it seems as if the accusations have merit. I would find it hard to believe that so many people would go after a 77-year old man for something that didn't happen 35 or 40 years ago. If one person came forth, maybe they just hold a grudge or are looking for a payout. But seven people? It doesn't look good for Conlin does it?
With the Jerry Sandusky case at Penn State and talk of a cover up and the Bernie Fine case at Syracuse, it seems as if people are not as afraid to come forward as they may have been.
I don't care how old someone is or how long ago something sinister happened. I have no sympathy or good feelings towards anyone who harms a child and most right thinking people agree with me.
Awful story this Conlin thing, awful.
Torreabla Snaps
Very upsetting video has come out this week showing Rangers catcher Yorvit Torrealba shoving an umpire in the face in a Venezuelan League game.
The former Giants, Mariners, Rockies and Padres backstop struck out and slapped his bat in anger. He was apparently still fuming over a called strike earlier in the at-bat. The ump threw him out when he smacked his bat and maybe that was a little premature on the umpires part. But when Torrealba argued he shoved the ump in the mask and that was absolutely wrong and inexcusable.
I would like to see Torrealba punished by Major League baseball. A nice suspension would be well deserved.
I don't know what kind of agreements MLB and the Venezuelan league have but all leagues should be universal in disciplining players who abuse umpires in the fashion that Torrealba did. If MLB doesn't punish Torrealba, saying that they have no jurisdiction over the Venezuelan League, then that would be weak and inexcusable.
I think a 30-game suspension would be adequate.
The former Giants, Mariners, Rockies and Padres backstop struck out and slapped his bat in anger. He was apparently still fuming over a called strike earlier in the at-bat. The ump threw him out when he smacked his bat and maybe that was a little premature on the umpires part. But when Torrealba argued he shoved the ump in the mask and that was absolutely wrong and inexcusable.
I would like to see Torrealba punished by Major League baseball. A nice suspension would be well deserved.
I don't know what kind of agreements MLB and the Venezuelan league have but all leagues should be universal in disciplining players who abuse umpires in the fashion that Torrealba did. If MLB doesn't punish Torrealba, saying that they have no jurisdiction over the Venezuelan League, then that would be weak and inexcusable.
I think a 30-game suspension would be adequate.
The Worst Cards Ever
For some strange, ridiculous reason, I thought of Luis Alvarado's 1973 Topps baseball card the other day.
I always thought it was the worst baseball card ever. To refresh my memory, I googled "Luis Alvarado baseball cards" and it took me to a website called www.checkoutmycards.com.
Sure enough, there were 5 Luis Alvarado cards including the disastrous 1973 card. In it, Alvarado, an infielder for the White Sox, is taking a throw from someone wearing a uniform with the number 38 on it.
It looks like they are playing a sandlot game. You can't see any grass. There is no stadium to look at in the background. Do you know what is in the background? I'll tell you. Parked cars. And power lines. It truly looks like a high school game on a really bad field.
Alvarado's 1974 card though looks like a card befitting of a Major Leaguer. He's posing in his righthanded batting stance at the original Yankee Stadium with the beautiful field and giant scoreboard in the distance. Much better than a card with a parking lot in the background.
Looking at the Alvarado card, I remembered a card of Dick Green that was pretty bad. I wasn't sure what year it was but I recalled a card where Green is flubbling a ball at second base. Sure enough, thanks to www.checkoutmycards.com, there is the 1973 card of Oakland second baseman Dick Green screwing up a play at second base. His glove is closed, the ball on the ground between his legs and he's exhaling. At first glance it looks as if a giant stream of saliva is shooting out of his mouth. But closer inspection shows that it was scratches on the outfield wall.
The question remains, why would Topps post such an unflattering picture of Green on his card? Did he have enemies at the Topps company? I'm just guessing some joker said, "Hey, how about this picture of Green?" The other guy then said, "That's funny. Go with it."
Finally, what was Green's reaction to seeing his 1973 baseball card? I would surmise he wasn't pleased but I bet his teammates found it rather comical.
Luis Alvarado hit just .214 over the course of his 9 seasons with 248 hits, 5 homers and 84 RBI's. He died on March 20, 2001 in Puerto Rico at the too young age of 52.
Dick Green is 70 years old and he spent his entire career with the Athletics, first in Kansas City then Oakland. Green hit .240 with 80 homers and 422 RBI's. He played on three World Series winners with the A's, the last being in 1974 against the Dodgers. The Athletics won that series in 5 games, with the deciding game being the last game Green ever played in.
My final thought is this. Did Alvarado and Green cross paths during that 1973 season and compare cards and wonder who's card was worse? I would say Alvarado's was worse. At least Green, wearing the hideous looking A's uniform, was playing in a Major League park.
I always thought it was the worst baseball card ever. To refresh my memory, I googled "Luis Alvarado baseball cards" and it took me to a website called www.checkoutmycards.com.
Sure enough, there were 5 Luis Alvarado cards including the disastrous 1973 card. In it, Alvarado, an infielder for the White Sox, is taking a throw from someone wearing a uniform with the number 38 on it.
It looks like they are playing a sandlot game. You can't see any grass. There is no stadium to look at in the background. Do you know what is in the background? I'll tell you. Parked cars. And power lines. It truly looks like a high school game on a really bad field.
Alvarado's 1974 card though looks like a card befitting of a Major Leaguer. He's posing in his righthanded batting stance at the original Yankee Stadium with the beautiful field and giant scoreboard in the distance. Much better than a card with a parking lot in the background.
Looking at the Alvarado card, I remembered a card of Dick Green that was pretty bad. I wasn't sure what year it was but I recalled a card where Green is flubbling a ball at second base. Sure enough, thanks to www.checkoutmycards.com, there is the 1973 card of Oakland second baseman Dick Green screwing up a play at second base. His glove is closed, the ball on the ground between his legs and he's exhaling. At first glance it looks as if a giant stream of saliva is shooting out of his mouth. But closer inspection shows that it was scratches on the outfield wall.
The question remains, why would Topps post such an unflattering picture of Green on his card? Did he have enemies at the Topps company? I'm just guessing some joker said, "Hey, how about this picture of Green?" The other guy then said, "That's funny. Go with it."
Finally, what was Green's reaction to seeing his 1973 baseball card? I would surmise he wasn't pleased but I bet his teammates found it rather comical.
Luis Alvarado hit just .214 over the course of his 9 seasons with 248 hits, 5 homers and 84 RBI's. He died on March 20, 2001 in Puerto Rico at the too young age of 52.
Dick Green is 70 years old and he spent his entire career with the Athletics, first in Kansas City then Oakland. Green hit .240 with 80 homers and 422 RBI's. He played on three World Series winners with the A's, the last being in 1974 against the Dodgers. The Athletics won that series in 5 games, with the deciding game being the last game Green ever played in.
My final thought is this. Did Alvarado and Green cross paths during that 1973 season and compare cards and wonder who's card was worse? I would say Alvarado's was worse. At least Green, wearing the hideous looking A's uniform, was playing in a Major League park.
Not A Tough Choice
Let's see, watch the opening games of the lockout delayed NBA season or watch Ken Burns "Baseball" series on MLB Network?
I think I'll watch baseball all day. And night. And not a minute of that waste of time called the NBA.
Funny, I used to love the NBA. Not anymore. I don't like the players (after covering them for several seasons. I refuse to step foot in another NBA locker room), I don't like the way the game is played and I don't like how the game is marketed as a star driven league as opposed to a team oriented game.
So, with no hockey games to watch, it's MLB Network, the best channel of them all.
I think I'll watch baseball all day. And night. And not a minute of that waste of time called the NBA.
Funny, I used to love the NBA. Not anymore. I don't like the players (after covering them for several seasons. I refuse to step foot in another NBA locker room), I don't like the way the game is played and I don't like how the game is marketed as a star driven league as opposed to a team oriented game.
So, with no hockey games to watch, it's MLB Network, the best channel of them all.
Merry Christmas!
Today is Christmas.
It isn't the same to me as it was when I was a kid. I do miss my mom and dad. I'm in Colorado and my sister lives in New York. My wife's parents are in Connecticut. Her brother is in New York and her sisters live in Illinois. Today should be a family day but the phone calls will have to do.
But something is still the same. I'm thinking about baseball. This is when I start to think of the upcoming season and looking forward to pitchers and catchers in less than two months. Two months. Sounds like a short period of time yet is seems like a long, long time. Especially when thinking of baseball and even more so when there is snow on the ground and freezing temperatures as it is now in Denver.
Winter is officially four days old and I'm officially done with it.
Hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas. To me it's a nice day, a day to remember the birth of Christ and another day closer to spring training.
It isn't the same to me as it was when I was a kid. I do miss my mom and dad. I'm in Colorado and my sister lives in New York. My wife's parents are in Connecticut. Her brother is in New York and her sisters live in Illinois. Today should be a family day but the phone calls will have to do.
But something is still the same. I'm thinking about baseball. This is when I start to think of the upcoming season and looking forward to pitchers and catchers in less than two months. Two months. Sounds like a short period of time yet is seems like a long, long time. Especially when thinking of baseball and even more so when there is snow on the ground and freezing temperatures as it is now in Denver.
Winter is officially four days old and I'm officially done with it.
Hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas. To me it's a nice day, a day to remember the birth of Christ and another day closer to spring training.
Monday, December 19, 2011
John Feinstein
One of the benefits of being sick is having the chance to catch up on my reading.
Right now I'm reading, "One on One...Behind the Scenes with the Greats in the Game," by John Feinstein.
Feinstein is my favorite sports author and this book is riveting as are most of his books. I'm not a golf fan but even his many golf books I've really enjoyed.
Disclaimer time. I'm a friend of John's and he comes on our Sunday night show frequently. But I would love his books even if I didn't know him.
I met Feinstein at West Point, New York in March of 1996. I introduced myself to him and asked him to be a guest of mine at halftime of an Army basketball game. He said, "Sure," we did the interview and that was that.
That fall, I was in the Army football press box at Michie Stadium and I heard someone call out my name. It was John. I couldn't believe he remembered my name. We chatted a bit and I realized what an incredible memory he has and it certainly serves him well in his latest book.
One of my favorite sports memories is being at Cameron Indoor Stadium a few hours before an Army-Duke game. Feinstein was there, said hello and then said, "Let's go see the Captain," which is what he called Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski. We went to Coach K's office. For the next hour John, Coach K and myself just shot the breeze. Who didn't belong in that conversation? I also did a pregame interview with Coach K. What I remembered most about that interview was Krzyzewski saying that he was startled when he left for the game. As was the routine, his family would say, "Good luck. Beat Carolina" or whatever team Duke was playing that day. However, on this particular Saturday they said, "Beat Army," and it shook the former Army player and coach for a moment. Duke did beat Army that day...100-38.
Back to Feinstein. One of the books he's written was called "Living on the Black," chronicling the 2007 baseball season through the eyes of two veteran pitchers, Mike Mussina and Tom Glavine. If you haven't read it you should. When you do read it you'll wish that Feinstein had written more books on baseball.
The point of this post? Check out "One on One." It's terrific so far...and I haven't even gotten to the baseball parts yet.
Right now I'm reading, "One on One...Behind the Scenes with the Greats in the Game," by John Feinstein.
Feinstein is my favorite sports author and this book is riveting as are most of his books. I'm not a golf fan but even his many golf books I've really enjoyed.
Disclaimer time. I'm a friend of John's and he comes on our Sunday night show frequently. But I would love his books even if I didn't know him.
I met Feinstein at West Point, New York in March of 1996. I introduced myself to him and asked him to be a guest of mine at halftime of an Army basketball game. He said, "Sure," we did the interview and that was that.
That fall, I was in the Army football press box at Michie Stadium and I heard someone call out my name. It was John. I couldn't believe he remembered my name. We chatted a bit and I realized what an incredible memory he has and it certainly serves him well in his latest book.
One of my favorite sports memories is being at Cameron Indoor Stadium a few hours before an Army-Duke game. Feinstein was there, said hello and then said, "Let's go see the Captain," which is what he called Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski. We went to Coach K's office. For the next hour John, Coach K and myself just shot the breeze. Who didn't belong in that conversation? I also did a pregame interview with Coach K. What I remembered most about that interview was Krzyzewski saying that he was startled when he left for the game. As was the routine, his family would say, "Good luck. Beat Carolina" or whatever team Duke was playing that day. However, on this particular Saturday they said, "Beat Army," and it shook the former Army player and coach for a moment. Duke did beat Army that day...100-38.
Back to Feinstein. One of the books he's written was called "Living on the Black," chronicling the 2007 baseball season through the eyes of two veteran pitchers, Mike Mussina and Tom Glavine. If you haven't read it you should. When you do read it you'll wish that Feinstein had written more books on baseball.
The point of this post? Check out "One on One." It's terrific so far...and I haven't even gotten to the baseball parts yet.
Player-Managers
Previously I wrote about the Phillies resigning shortstop Jimmy Rollins. It got me to thinking that he might make a good manager someday.
After all, he plays a thinking man's position. He's got great leadership skills. He's glib with the media. He's an independent thinker. I do believe he has what it takes to be a manager in time. But what about now?
It has been a long time since we've had a player manager in baseball. The last, to my recollection, was Pete Rose in 1986. Before that Don Kessinger was a shortstop/manager with the White Sox. As a kid I thought it was pretty cool when Frank Robinson was a player/manager with the Indians and played himself as a DH, hitting a home run on Opening Day 1975 in those hideous all-red Cleveland uniforms. I remember watching it on TV against the Yankees. That was pretty historic. Robinson was the first black manager ever and he hits a home run too? Impressive.
Player/managers used to be commonplace many decades ago. Ty Cobb was a player/manager for 6 seasons, of which he had 5 winning teams but no pennants from 1921-26. Cobb, an outfielder, would infuriate people when he would visit the mound. He would slowly walk in from the outfield and then slowly walk back. One thing we know about Cobb is he didn't really mind pissing people off.
So if a player became a player/manager today, hopefully he wouldn't be an outfielder.
Which players would make good player/manager today? I would think in addition to Rollins, Derek Jeter would be able to handle the role. Jason Varitek would be a good candidate and he probably will manage soon since his playing days are just about over.
Will we ever see another player/manager? Probably not. It is tough enough just playing the game. But I would like to see it. Maybe a team not in contention that fires their manager in late August and just gives the reigns to a player for the hell of it. It would certainly bring about some attention.
After all, he plays a thinking man's position. He's got great leadership skills. He's glib with the media. He's an independent thinker. I do believe he has what it takes to be a manager in time. But what about now?
It has been a long time since we've had a player manager in baseball. The last, to my recollection, was Pete Rose in 1986. Before that Don Kessinger was a shortstop/manager with the White Sox. As a kid I thought it was pretty cool when Frank Robinson was a player/manager with the Indians and played himself as a DH, hitting a home run on Opening Day 1975 in those hideous all-red Cleveland uniforms. I remember watching it on TV against the Yankees. That was pretty historic. Robinson was the first black manager ever and he hits a home run too? Impressive.
Player/managers used to be commonplace many decades ago. Ty Cobb was a player/manager for 6 seasons, of which he had 5 winning teams but no pennants from 1921-26. Cobb, an outfielder, would infuriate people when he would visit the mound. He would slowly walk in from the outfield and then slowly walk back. One thing we know about Cobb is he didn't really mind pissing people off.
So if a player became a player/manager today, hopefully he wouldn't be an outfielder.
Which players would make good player/manager today? I would think in addition to Rollins, Derek Jeter would be able to handle the role. Jason Varitek would be a good candidate and he probably will manage soon since his playing days are just about over.
Will we ever see another player/manager? Probably not. It is tough enough just playing the game. But I would like to see it. Maybe a team not in contention that fires their manager in late August and just gives the reigns to a player for the hell of it. It would certainly bring about some attention.
Braun Clear?
A report from TMZ claims that the failed drug test taken by Brewers slugger was a result of medication for a private medical issue. I certainly hope that is the case.
Still, isn't it the player's duty to make sure what goes in his body has been checked and cleared?
If I were a professional athlete, I'd even check to make sure Flintstone Vitamins were alright to take.
Some questions need to be addressed before we let Braun off the hook for "bad medication."
What specific medication did he take? Also, while medical issues are certainly private, if he wants to be vindicated he probably should make public what condition it was that he was taking medication for.
I would also like to hear from an independent expert that this particular medication elevates testosterone levels to the high amount found in Braun's body.
If he answers these questions and if independent experts confirm his story, I'm willing to believe that Braun didn't use performance-enhancing drugs. If not, I'll have a tough time believing he isn't a cheat.
Hopefully, we will find out that Braun was clean, it was a mistake and that other athletes take note. They need to know exactly what goes in their bodies and that people are tired of the old "I didn't intentionally take performance enhancing drugs," excuse. That is as lame excuse as there is.
Still, isn't it the player's duty to make sure what goes in his body has been checked and cleared?
If I were a professional athlete, I'd even check to make sure Flintstone Vitamins were alright to take.
Some questions need to be addressed before we let Braun off the hook for "bad medication."
What specific medication did he take? Also, while medical issues are certainly private, if he wants to be vindicated he probably should make public what condition it was that he was taking medication for.
I would also like to hear from an independent expert that this particular medication elevates testosterone levels to the high amount found in Braun's body.
If he answers these questions and if independent experts confirm his story, I'm willing to believe that Braun didn't use performance-enhancing drugs. If not, I'll have a tough time believing he isn't a cheat.
Hopefully, we will find out that Braun was clean, it was a mistake and that other athletes take note. They need to know exactly what goes in their bodies and that people are tired of the old "I didn't intentionally take performance enhancing drugs," excuse. That is as lame excuse as there is.
Rocks Make a Move...A Good One!
Michael Cuddyer is now a much needed member of the Rockies. The former Minnesota Twin signed a 3-year, 31.5-million dollar deal with the Rockies.
He'll help in a number of areas. He's versatile and can play either corner outfield spot as well as first, second and third.
He's also got some pop in his bat. You just hope that at 33 come Opening Day that he still has a few good years left.
Cuddyer won't carry a team on his back, he won't be the guy who will make Rockies fans run and get playoff tickets just yet, he won't make the spectacular play in the field, but he is a solid contributor who will simply do his job. From what I've heard, he's a great teammate and good team chemistry guy. Still, he'll have to adjust to the National League and it's pitchers but that isn't as difficult as it used to be in the days before Interleague play.
While I'm looking forward to chatting with Cuddyer about baseball, I'm really looking forward to talking about his photography hobby.
If you go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/fivebball/ (copy and paste into address bar. It won't link on here), you will see some great photos from Cuddyer. His nature scenes and city shots are great but I absolutely love his ballpark photos. Being a player, he has his run of ballparks and takes great shots of behind the scenes places that fans don't normally get a chance to see. I would urge any baseball fan and especially fans of ballparks to check out his site.
By the way, if you notice on the address to his site, it says "fiveball" which was Cuddyer's number with the Twins. Since Carlos Gonzalez is number five, I wonder which number Cuddyer will end up with and if he'll change name of his flicker page.
He'll help in a number of areas. He's versatile and can play either corner outfield spot as well as first, second and third.
He's also got some pop in his bat. You just hope that at 33 come Opening Day that he still has a few good years left.
Cuddyer won't carry a team on his back, he won't be the guy who will make Rockies fans run and get playoff tickets just yet, he won't make the spectacular play in the field, but he is a solid contributor who will simply do his job. From what I've heard, he's a great teammate and good team chemistry guy. Still, he'll have to adjust to the National League and it's pitchers but that isn't as difficult as it used to be in the days before Interleague play.
While I'm looking forward to chatting with Cuddyer about baseball, I'm really looking forward to talking about his photography hobby.
If you go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/fivebball/ (copy and paste into address bar. It won't link on here), you will see some great photos from Cuddyer. His nature scenes and city shots are great but I absolutely love his ballpark photos. Being a player, he has his run of ballparks and takes great shots of behind the scenes places that fans don't normally get a chance to see. I would urge any baseball fan and especially fans of ballparks to check out his site.
By the way, if you notice on the address to his site, it says "fiveball" which was Cuddyer's number with the Twins. Since Carlos Gonzalez is number five, I wonder which number Cuddyer will end up with and if he'll change name of his flicker page.
J-Roll Still a Phil
The Phillies and Jimmy Rollins have agreed to a 3-year, 33-million dollar deal. At the age of 33. That's a lot of threes for number six.
While I wouldn't say that Rollins is on a sharp decline, he is certainly on a slight decline. But he is the Phillies catalyst and stats don't always convey the meaning he has to his ballclub. When Rollins is clicking, the Phillies offense is scary good. When he's not, the team isn't nearly as dynamic.
This is probably his last big contract and the numbers are probably just about right for both sides.
One interesting thing I noticed while looking at Rollins' stats. He has never hit .300 for a full-season. When he first came up, he hit .321 in 53 at-bats in 2000. But for the course of his career the highest he has hit was .296 in his MVP year of 2007. He banged out 20 triples, 30 homers and 94 RBI's that season and hasn't come close to any of those numbers since. Again, he's in a slight decline but the Phillies needed to sign him. Plus, not sure which team would give him that kind of money other than the Philles. Nice to see a guy stick with the team he's been with his entire career.
While I wouldn't say that Rollins is on a sharp decline, he is certainly on a slight decline. But he is the Phillies catalyst and stats don't always convey the meaning he has to his ballclub. When Rollins is clicking, the Phillies offense is scary good. When he's not, the team isn't nearly as dynamic.
This is probably his last big contract and the numbers are probably just about right for both sides.
One interesting thing I noticed while looking at Rollins' stats. He has never hit .300 for a full-season. When he first came up, he hit .321 in 53 at-bats in 2000. But for the course of his career the highest he has hit was .296 in his MVP year of 2007. He banged out 20 triples, 30 homers and 94 RBI's that season and hasn't come close to any of those numbers since. Again, he's in a slight decline but the Phillies needed to sign him. Plus, not sure which team would give him that kind of money other than the Philles. Nice to see a guy stick with the team he's been with his entire career.
Rough Weekend
Being sick stinks. Figuratively and literally. I've been ill the past few days with fever, runny nose, stuffy head, sore throat, the splats and muscle fatigue. All that stuff.
I missed doing the show last night and missed today's morning show. But I'm feeling better. You don't realize how good feeling good is until you feel bad.
It was a crummy weekend for me. Besides being sick, the Giants got their heads beat in by the rancid Redskins, the Broncos lost, which for this Tim Tebow fan was not fun, Notre Dame hoops lost to Indiana and I had my wife tell me, "I've done enough pampering of you."
Also watched the dreary New Mexico Bowl where Wyoming got throttled by Temple. I like Wyoming football. I try to catch a game in Laramie every season although I didn't make it up to the windiest place on the planet this season.
Finally, I had to abandon my off-season workouts for the upcoming Old Guy's baseball season due to being bedridden the past few days. Ugh.
Oh yeah, watched MLB Network too. That was the best part of my miserable weekend.
I missed doing the show last night and missed today's morning show. But I'm feeling better. You don't realize how good feeling good is until you feel bad.
It was a crummy weekend for me. Besides being sick, the Giants got their heads beat in by the rancid Redskins, the Broncos lost, which for this Tim Tebow fan was not fun, Notre Dame hoops lost to Indiana and I had my wife tell me, "I've done enough pampering of you."
Also watched the dreary New Mexico Bowl where Wyoming got throttled by Temple. I like Wyoming football. I try to catch a game in Laramie every season although I didn't make it up to the windiest place on the planet this season.
Finally, I had to abandon my off-season workouts for the upcoming Old Guy's baseball season due to being bedridden the past few days. Ugh.
Oh yeah, watched MLB Network too. That was the best part of my miserable weekend.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Prime Time
While watching Deion Sanders on the NFL Network yesterday, I thought back to when he played Major League Baseball. Sometimes it's hard to remember that he played for the Yankees, Braves, Reds and Giants.
I was looking up his lifetime stats and they were better than I remembered.
He hit .263 lifetime with 558 hits and 186 stolen bases. Not bad for a guy who was never totally commited to baseball. If he wasn't a football player and dedicated himself to baseball he could have been one of the greats. I have no doubt about that.
Here's something I found interesting. Of his 39 career homers, 3 were inside-the-park jobs. He hit two homers off of Jeff Brantley. Not that impressive. A lot of guys hit home runs off Jeff Brantley. But this is impressive...two of Deion's home runs came off Orel Hershiser.
I was looking up his lifetime stats and they were better than I remembered.
He hit .263 lifetime with 558 hits and 186 stolen bases. Not bad for a guy who was never totally commited to baseball. If he wasn't a football player and dedicated himself to baseball he could have been one of the greats. I have no doubt about that.
Here's something I found interesting. Of his 39 career homers, 3 were inside-the-park jobs. He hit two homers off of Jeff Brantley. Not that impressive. A lot of guys hit home runs off Jeff Brantley. But this is impressive...two of Deion's home runs came off Orel Hershiser.
Mr. Responsibility
Manny Ramirez is basically begging for a job again. It can't be because he needs the money, can it?
Anyway, the steroid cheat wants to play again and says he's in the best shape he's been in for the past three years. Sure. I guess he got his workouts in when he was assaulting his wife.
Manny also says he when he quit the game last year after getting popped for steroids, again, he said he shouldn't have retired and said he got bad advice. That's taking responsibility. So steroids, wife beating and quitting wasn't Manny's fault. It was bad advice.
Go away Manny and never come back.
And shame on any team that signs this bum.
Anyway, the steroid cheat wants to play again and says he's in the best shape he's been in for the past three years. Sure. I guess he got his workouts in when he was assaulting his wife.
Manny also says he when he quit the game last year after getting popped for steroids, again, he said he shouldn't have retired and said he got bad advice. That's taking responsibility. So steroids, wife beating and quitting wasn't Manny's fault. It was bad advice.
Go away Manny and never come back.
And shame on any team that signs this bum.
Pipe Down Woman
Albert Pujols wife tried to explain to St. Louis why her husband signed with the Angels.
Diedre Pujols said, "When you have somebody say 'We want you to be a Cardinal for life' and only offer you a five-year deal, it kind of confused us. Well, we got over that insult and felt like Albert had given so much of himself to baseball and into the community ... we didn't want to go through this again."
They were insulted by a 5-year, 130-million dollar offer? Really? Please, PLEASE, someone insult me like that.
If I were Albert I would simply tell my wife, "STFU."
Both of them should never speak again. Just go to California and zip it.
Diedre Pujols said, "When you have somebody say 'We want you to be a Cardinal for life' and only offer you a five-year deal, it kind of confused us. Well, we got over that insult and felt like Albert had given so much of himself to baseball and into the community ... we didn't want to go through this again."
They were insulted by a 5-year, 130-million dollar offer? Really? Please, PLEASE, someone insult me like that.
If I were Albert I would simply tell my wife, "STFU."
Both of them should never speak again. Just go to California and zip it.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Braun Tainted
The National League MVP was on the juice? Really? Ryan Braun of the Brewers taking performance enhancing drugs?
Of all the guys in the league who I would suspect were clean, Braun would definitely be one of them. He seems like the All-American boy but apparently his story is too good to be true.
Braun is facing a 50-game suspension after testing positive for performance enhancing drugs during the playoffs last October. The suspension has not been handed down yet since Braun is appealing the test.
No player has ever won an appeal in baseball but suppose Braun does? His name will still be tainted. Bad news for Braun, the Brewers and baseball. If Braun is indeed guilty then he will deserve every game of his suspension and will forever be linked with other steroid users.
So while Bud Selig likes to trumpet how clean the game has become, and if falling home run numbers are any indication, the game is cleaner than it was. Absolutely cleaner. But there are still some guys who think they can get away with cheating.
If Braun doesn't win his appeal, then what?
Should his MVP Award be taken away? I would say so. It would be a trophy won through ill-gotten gains.
How about this? If a player is caught using performance enhancing drugs then the team he plays for has the option to null and void his contract if they so choose. Or they can enforce the contract at a lower percentage. If a guy tests positive, how about his contract automatically decreasing by 25%? 50%? There has to be some monetary punishment, don't you think?
The sad thing is, Braun is one of those players that really doesn't need to take performance enhancing drugs. With the money so great, you can understand a fringe player getting desperate and trying to beat the system. What do they have to lose? But a star player like Braun? He has everything to lose beginning with his good name and reputation.
Of all the guys in the league who I would suspect were clean, Braun would definitely be one of them. He seems like the All-American boy but apparently his story is too good to be true.
Braun is facing a 50-game suspension after testing positive for performance enhancing drugs during the playoffs last October. The suspension has not been handed down yet since Braun is appealing the test.
No player has ever won an appeal in baseball but suppose Braun does? His name will still be tainted. Bad news for Braun, the Brewers and baseball. If Braun is indeed guilty then he will deserve every game of his suspension and will forever be linked with other steroid users.
So while Bud Selig likes to trumpet how clean the game has become, and if falling home run numbers are any indication, the game is cleaner than it was. Absolutely cleaner. But there are still some guys who think they can get away with cheating.
If Braun doesn't win his appeal, then what?
Should his MVP Award be taken away? I would say so. It would be a trophy won through ill-gotten gains.
How about this? If a player is caught using performance enhancing drugs then the team he plays for has the option to null and void his contract if they so choose. Or they can enforce the contract at a lower percentage. If a guy tests positive, how about his contract automatically decreasing by 25%? 50%? There has to be some monetary punishment, don't you think?
The sad thing is, Braun is one of those players that really doesn't need to take performance enhancing drugs. With the money so great, you can understand a fringe player getting desperate and trying to beat the system. What do they have to lose? But a star player like Braun? He has everything to lose beginning with his good name and reputation.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Army-Navy
While dabbling on this blog and watching the Army-Navy game, my thoughts drifted back to former Army baseball pitcher Steve Reich.
For 11-years, I announced Army hockey and basketball but I never, unfortunately, announced Army baseball. But I took in many games at Doubleday Field at West Point.
A lefthander, Reich wasn't only the best Army pitcher I ever saw but one of the best college pitchers I ever saw. He's still Army's all-time leader in wins.
Reich pitched in the early 90's for Army and for Team USA in 1993. After serving two years of his military commitment, he pitched briefly in the Baltimore Orioles minor league system. But he chose the military over pro baseball and was sent to serve overseas.
On June 28, 2005, Major Stephen Reich was killed on a rescue mission in Afghanistan. He was 34.
So as I watch the Army-Navy football game today and reflect back on all the wonderful people I met at West Point, I can only marvel at their dedication, commitment and love of this country. And to every single person at the United State Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy and the United States Air Force Academy, past and present, I can only say "Thank you, with the deepest admiration and gratitude."
Man, that Steve Reich could throw a baseball.
For 11-years, I announced Army hockey and basketball but I never, unfortunately, announced Army baseball. But I took in many games at Doubleday Field at West Point.
A lefthander, Reich wasn't only the best Army pitcher I ever saw but one of the best college pitchers I ever saw. He's still Army's all-time leader in wins.
Reich pitched in the early 90's for Army and for Team USA in 1993. After serving two years of his military commitment, he pitched briefly in the Baltimore Orioles minor league system. But he chose the military over pro baseball and was sent to serve overseas.
On June 28, 2005, Major Stephen Reich was killed on a rescue mission in Afghanistan. He was 34.
So as I watch the Army-Navy football game today and reflect back on all the wonderful people I met at West Point, I can only marvel at their dedication, commitment and love of this country. And to every single person at the United State Military Academy, the United States Naval Academy and the United States Air Force Academy, past and present, I can only say "Thank you, with the deepest admiration and gratitude."
Man, that Steve Reich could throw a baseball.
McCarver
For some reason a lot of people aren't big Tim McCarver fans. I don't count myself among them.
I've always liked McCarver in the broadcast booth. He calls it fair, the way he sees it and he has a pleasant manner and voice. I also am a fan of his great sense of humor. Sure he can beat a point to death at times but I usually learn something from McCarver every time I hear him announce a game.
That said, congrats to Tim McCarver for winning the Hall of Fame's Ford Frick award for broadcasting excellence. While he was a solid player for a long time and was on a couple of World Series winning teams and made a couple of All Star games, he wasn't close to being considered Hall of Fame worthy as a catcher. But he certainly is worthy of being in the Hall of Fame as an announcer. At 70-years of age, McCarver still brings it in the booth and I'm glad he'll take his place in Cooperstown. Although his induction speech might be a little long.
I've always liked McCarver in the broadcast booth. He calls it fair, the way he sees it and he has a pleasant manner and voice. I also am a fan of his great sense of humor. Sure he can beat a point to death at times but I usually learn something from McCarver every time I hear him announce a game.
That said, congrats to Tim McCarver for winning the Hall of Fame's Ford Frick award for broadcasting excellence. While he was a solid player for a long time and was on a couple of World Series winning teams and made a couple of All Star games, he wasn't close to being considered Hall of Fame worthy as a catcher. But he certainly is worthy of being in the Hall of Fame as an announcer. At 70-years of age, McCarver still brings it in the booth and I'm glad he'll take his place in Cooperstown. Although his induction speech might be a little long.
Stacked
Like Denise Milani, the first base position in the American League is stacked. With Albert Pujols now with the Angels, it is likely the best collection of talent at one position in baseball.
You have Pujols in Anaheim, Adrian Gonzalez in Boston, Mark Teixeira in New York, Miguel Cabrera in Detroit and the vastly underrated Paul Konerko in Chicago. Plus, if Justin Morneau can return from injury problems that he's had the past two years and the up and coming Eric Hosmer in Kansas City it will be quite interesting to see who ends up in the All Star game, which will be in KC. All these guys will likely be worthy All Stars but you can't take them all.
You have Pujols in Anaheim, Adrian Gonzalez in Boston, Mark Teixeira in New York, Miguel Cabrera in Detroit and the vastly underrated Paul Konerko in Chicago. Plus, if Justin Morneau can return from injury problems that he's had the past two years and the up and coming Eric Hosmer in Kansas City it will be quite interesting to see who ends up in the All Star game, which will be in KC. All these guys will likely be worthy All Stars but you can't take them all.
Just Say No!
Disgraced steroid user and alleged wife beater Manny Ramirez wants to get back into baseball. If you recall, he retired last April after failing a drug test and being slapped with a 100-game suspension as a second time drug policy offender.
So that was the end of Manny. Or so we thought.
He has been reinstated by baseball from the voluntary retirement list and his 100-game suspension has been reduced to 50-games. If a team signs him, then his 50-game ban goes into effect.
First of all, why in the world did baseball cut his 100-game suspension to 50? He should serve all 100-games.
Secondly, why doesn't baseball wait to see how the criminal case goes against Ramirez for allegedly beating his wife?
Finally, from a baseball point of view, why would you sign Ramirez? By the time his 50-game suspension is up he'll be 40. Last year, in 17 at-bats with Tampa Bay he collected just one hit. He's a failed drug test away from another suspension.
Manny Ramirez has worn out his welcome in baseball. It is my hope and desire that no team signs him and he can just go away and think of how he pissed away his name and his shot at the Hall of Fame.
So that was the end of Manny. Or so we thought.
He has been reinstated by baseball from the voluntary retirement list and his 100-game suspension has been reduced to 50-games. If a team signs him, then his 50-game ban goes into effect.
First of all, why in the world did baseball cut his 100-game suspension to 50? He should serve all 100-games.
Secondly, why doesn't baseball wait to see how the criminal case goes against Ramirez for allegedly beating his wife?
Finally, from a baseball point of view, why would you sign Ramirez? By the time his 50-game suspension is up he'll be 40. Last year, in 17 at-bats with Tampa Bay he collected just one hit. He's a failed drug test away from another suspension.
Manny Ramirez has worn out his welcome in baseball. It is my hope and desire that no team signs him and he can just go away and think of how he pissed away his name and his shot at the Hall of Fame.
The Slammer
Barry Bonds will be sentenced on December 16th for obstruction of justice in his steroid case.
Federal prosecutors want the judge to give him jail time, 15-months worth while a federal probation officer is recommending probation.
If it were up to me, I'd go with a nice stay in prison for Bonds. It has nothing to do with steroids either. Steroids tainted his baseball legacy and I don't think anyone with a sane mind would consider him the home run champ. He's a bum and a baseball pariah from my viewpoint.
I would sentence him to prison for simply being a bad guy and a jerk. I saw firsthand, how he treated people. I saw him bark at an elderly writer in the visiting clubhouse at Coors Field, claiming the guy was standing in his locker when he was in actuality standing several feet away. He went out of his way to try to intimated a man just trying to do his job. I don't like people like Bonds and a stint in the pokey might humble this most arrogant ass clown. Screw Barry Bonds.
Federal prosecutors want the judge to give him jail time, 15-months worth while a federal probation officer is recommending probation.
If it were up to me, I'd go with a nice stay in prison for Bonds. It has nothing to do with steroids either. Steroids tainted his baseball legacy and I don't think anyone with a sane mind would consider him the home run champ. He's a bum and a baseball pariah from my viewpoint.
I would sentence him to prison for simply being a bad guy and a jerk. I saw firsthand, how he treated people. I saw him bark at an elderly writer in the visiting clubhouse at Coors Field, claiming the guy was standing in his locker when he was in actuality standing several feet away. He went out of his way to try to intimated a man just trying to do his job. I don't like people like Bonds and a stint in the pokey might humble this most arrogant ass clown. Screw Barry Bonds.
No Statue For You
54-million dollars is a lot of money. Would you change jobs if someone else offered you 54-million more? Sure you would.
That is what Albert Pujols did. The Angels offer of 254-million dollars over 10-years exceeded the Cardinals offer of 9-years around 200-million. So Albert took the money and ran and I don't blame him.
He's 31, or so he says. This was probably his last chance at a big money grab and grab it he did to Southern California. I hope he likes earthquakes.
By signing with the Angels, there are some things though that Albert forfeits. Since he will be taking up a big chunk of the Angels payroll, he loses the right to complain if the Angels don't make a move at the trade deadline to add a pricey player. He can't squawk if the Angels don't make a big free agent move or if they decide to trim payroll. He also can't say, regarding his contract, "It wasn't about the money," because it clearly was.
I do feel bad for Cardinals fans. To root and cheer for a future Hall of Fame player like Pujols for 11-seasons and then to see him uproot and take the money deal has to hurt. Similar to the 57-year old rich guy who dumps his wife of 33-years for a 24-year blonde, busty, bimbo.
But in the long run I think the Cardinals will win out. They won't be saddled with an aging slugger who is taking up payroll space in the final years of career. Plus, with no DH in the National League, Pujols would have been manning first base, something he doesn't do all that well now. I don't think his fielding will improve over time.
Oh, I forgot. Since people have said that Albert Pujols is the modern day Stan "The Man" Musial, one could assume that, had he finished his career in St. Louis he would have been the beloved face of the franchise till the day he died. He would have been treated like royalty, showing up and taking bows at Opening Day, post-season games, anytime and anywhere his travels would take him. And he would have had a beautiful statue of himself, probably in the vicinity of Musial. But there will be no statue for Albert "The Money Man" Pujols.
That is what Albert Pujols did. The Angels offer of 254-million dollars over 10-years exceeded the Cardinals offer of 9-years around 200-million. So Albert took the money and ran and I don't blame him.
He's 31, or so he says. This was probably his last chance at a big money grab and grab it he did to Southern California. I hope he likes earthquakes.
By signing with the Angels, there are some things though that Albert forfeits. Since he will be taking up a big chunk of the Angels payroll, he loses the right to complain if the Angels don't make a move at the trade deadline to add a pricey player. He can't squawk if the Angels don't make a big free agent move or if they decide to trim payroll. He also can't say, regarding his contract, "It wasn't about the money," because it clearly was.
I do feel bad for Cardinals fans. To root and cheer for a future Hall of Fame player like Pujols for 11-seasons and then to see him uproot and take the money deal has to hurt. Similar to the 57-year old rich guy who dumps his wife of 33-years for a 24-year blonde, busty, bimbo.
But in the long run I think the Cardinals will win out. They won't be saddled with an aging slugger who is taking up payroll space in the final years of career. Plus, with no DH in the National League, Pujols would have been manning first base, something he doesn't do all that well now. I don't think his fielding will improve over time.
Oh, I forgot. Since people have said that Albert Pujols is the modern day Stan "The Man" Musial, one could assume that, had he finished his career in St. Louis he would have been the beloved face of the franchise till the day he died. He would have been treated like royalty, showing up and taking bows at Opening Day, post-season games, anytime and anywhere his travels would take him. And he would have had a beautiful statue of himself, probably in the vicinity of Musial. But there will be no statue for Albert "The Money Man" Pujols.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Miami Suckers
Player A has a few sub par, injury filled seasons. Then in his free-agent year, Player A plays great, makes the all-star team and, as they say these days, "puts up numbers."
Then a desperate team, looking to make a splash, signs Player A to a huge contract.
Well, that's what happened to now former Mets shortstop Jose Reyes.
An exciting player for certain when healthy and motivated, Reyes only played in 36 games in 2009 and 133 games in 2010 when he hit .282. Leg injuries have been an issue which is a problem when his game is predicated on speed.
Last year, Reyes, motivated by the carrot of a new, multi-year, million dollar contract won the batting title with the Mets at .337, although the way he won the title was cowardly. He got a hit in his final game and then took himself out of the lineup to protect the average, gambling that Ryan Braun of the Brewers wouldn't go 3-4. He didn't and Reyes won the crown. Read my thoughts on that escapade on this blog in the September 29, 2011 post titled "Tainted Crown?"
Anyhow, the Marlins bought in and signed Reyes to a 6-year, 106-million dollar contract with an option for a 7th year at 22-million, 4-mil of that guaranteed.
Florida...um, excuse me, Miami, here's what you get! A selfish, injury prone player that will likely have you saying three years from now, "Why did we sign this guy?"
Bad move Marlins. They should have changed their name to the Miami Suckers.
Don't get me started on their interest in Albert Pujols. That would be a big time sucker deal.
Then a desperate team, looking to make a splash, signs Player A to a huge contract.
Well, that's what happened to now former Mets shortstop Jose Reyes.
An exciting player for certain when healthy and motivated, Reyes only played in 36 games in 2009 and 133 games in 2010 when he hit .282. Leg injuries have been an issue which is a problem when his game is predicated on speed.
Last year, Reyes, motivated by the carrot of a new, multi-year, million dollar contract won the batting title with the Mets at .337, although the way he won the title was cowardly. He got a hit in his final game and then took himself out of the lineup to protect the average, gambling that Ryan Braun of the Brewers wouldn't go 3-4. He didn't and Reyes won the crown. Read my thoughts on that escapade on this blog in the September 29, 2011 post titled "Tainted Crown?"
Anyhow, the Marlins bought in and signed Reyes to a 6-year, 106-million dollar contract with an option for a 7th year at 22-million, 4-mil of that guaranteed.
Florida...um, excuse me, Miami, here's what you get! A selfish, injury prone player that will likely have you saying three years from now, "Why did we sign this guy?"
Bad move Marlins. They should have changed their name to the Miami Suckers.
Don't get me started on their interest in Albert Pujols. That would be a big time sucker deal.
Bittersweet
I'm happy and sad at the same time.
Ron Santo yesterday was, rightfully and deservedly, elected to the baseball Hall of Fame by the veteran's committee.
My initial reaction was, "Finally, Santo goes in the hall." My second reaction was, "What the (bleep) took so long?"
The Cubs third baseman was a 9-time All Star and belted 342 home runs while collecting 5 gold gloves. Ask just about anybody who saw Santo play or who knows of his accomplishments and they will tell you the same thing...he was a Hall of Fame player.
So why did it take him 32-years after he was eligible for the hall to get elected?
Did his stats get better this past year? Why wasn't he considered to be a Hall of Famer, say 12 years ago but now suddenly he's worthy? I don't get it. Did people hold a grudge against him? I would find that hard to believe since everyone who ever encountered Ron Santo loved the guy. By all accounts he was a first class individual.
I'll cite an example I read about by a fan who commented on an article on Santo yesterday.
He said that he met Santo before a game when he was announcing Cubs games. Santo asked the man's kids who their favorite players were. The kids told him. Around the 6th inning of that game, an usher went up the the dad and asked if he talked to Santo prior to the game. The man said yes. The usher then handed over autographed baseballs of the players that the kids said were their favorites. How's that for classy?
The thing that infuriates me most about Santo getting his due is that he passed away last December at the age of 70. He had diabetes and other health ailments. It would have been nice if he was given this honor years earlier when he was alive. Did the committee just wait until he died to put him in. I doubt that's the case but if it was how cruel would that be.
I'm glad for Santo's family that he will finally take his rightful place in the Hall of Fame. But it's long overdue and it is a shame Santo isn't around to enjoy it.
Ron Santo yesterday was, rightfully and deservedly, elected to the baseball Hall of Fame by the veteran's committee.
My initial reaction was, "Finally, Santo goes in the hall." My second reaction was, "What the (bleep) took so long?"
The Cubs third baseman was a 9-time All Star and belted 342 home runs while collecting 5 gold gloves. Ask just about anybody who saw Santo play or who knows of his accomplishments and they will tell you the same thing...he was a Hall of Fame player.
So why did it take him 32-years after he was eligible for the hall to get elected?
Did his stats get better this past year? Why wasn't he considered to be a Hall of Famer, say 12 years ago but now suddenly he's worthy? I don't get it. Did people hold a grudge against him? I would find that hard to believe since everyone who ever encountered Ron Santo loved the guy. By all accounts he was a first class individual.
I'll cite an example I read about by a fan who commented on an article on Santo yesterday.
He said that he met Santo before a game when he was announcing Cubs games. Santo asked the man's kids who their favorite players were. The kids told him. Around the 6th inning of that game, an usher went up the the dad and asked if he talked to Santo prior to the game. The man said yes. The usher then handed over autographed baseballs of the players that the kids said were their favorites. How's that for classy?
The thing that infuriates me most about Santo getting his due is that he passed away last December at the age of 70. He had diabetes and other health ailments. It would have been nice if he was given this honor years earlier when he was alive. Did the committee just wait until he died to put him in. I doubt that's the case but if it was how cruel would that be.
I'm glad for Santo's family that he will finally take his rightful place in the Hall of Fame. But it's long overdue and it is a shame Santo isn't around to enjoy it.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Direct TV
When I turned on the television this morning, I turned to the MLB Network, Direct TV Channel 213. One problem. There was no MLB Network on the screen. It said to order this channel call customer service and ask for extension 721.
When talking to a representative, I wanted to know where my MLB Network was. I was told that once the season ended so did my MLB package which includes the MLB Network.
He didn't have an answer to why I had MLB Network this week and suddenly it was shut off.
He tried to sell me an upgraded package. I don't want to pay more money than I'm already paying. He was nice and pleasant but I wasn't going down without a fight.
"Well, if I can't get MLB Network or if I have to pay additional money, then there is no use for me to even have Direct TV. I'm going to have to call Dish Network and see what they can do for me."
Immediately he sent me to the "retention services."
Alright, I had them on the run! They are not in the business of losing customers, especially "loyal" customers such as me which the second person I spoke to called me.
So, without giving me an explanation for the loss of MLB Network, he offered me two discounts that will go into effect immediately and will be in place for the next year.
He told me that in a year I should call and get the same discounts again.
Sign me up.
So in a matter of less than 5-minutes, my MLB Network was restored plus I got several more channels.
So the moral of the story is, when dealing with Direct TV, let them know that you are not married to them and that there are other options that you could and will look into. Like a car salesman, they don't want you leaving the dealership. In the competitive world of satellite TV, you tell them what you want and you can probably get it with a little tact and a veiled threat of taking your business elsewhere.
Meanwhile, the sales reps for Direct TV didn't realize that I can't survive the winter anymore without MLB Network. If they said, "Hey look schmuck, you can have MLB Network back and it's gonna be an extra $50 a month, take it or leave it," I would have likely responded, "Um, OK."
When talking to a representative, I wanted to know where my MLB Network was. I was told that once the season ended so did my MLB package which includes the MLB Network.
He didn't have an answer to why I had MLB Network this week and suddenly it was shut off.
He tried to sell me an upgraded package. I don't want to pay more money than I'm already paying. He was nice and pleasant but I wasn't going down without a fight.
"Well, if I can't get MLB Network or if I have to pay additional money, then there is no use for me to even have Direct TV. I'm going to have to call Dish Network and see what they can do for me."
Immediately he sent me to the "retention services."
Alright, I had them on the run! They are not in the business of losing customers, especially "loyal" customers such as me which the second person I spoke to called me.
So, without giving me an explanation for the loss of MLB Network, he offered me two discounts that will go into effect immediately and will be in place for the next year.
He told me that in a year I should call and get the same discounts again.
Sign me up.
So in a matter of less than 5-minutes, my MLB Network was restored plus I got several more channels.
So the moral of the story is, when dealing with Direct TV, let them know that you are not married to them and that there are other options that you could and will look into. Like a car salesman, they don't want you leaving the dealership. In the competitive world of satellite TV, you tell them what you want and you can probably get it with a little tact and a veiled threat of taking your business elsewhere.
Meanwhile, the sales reps for Direct TV didn't realize that I can't survive the winter anymore without MLB Network. If they said, "Hey look schmuck, you can have MLB Network back and it's gonna be an extra $50 a month, take it or leave it," I would have likely responded, "Um, OK."
33 Hits
When a player has accumulated more than 2-thousand big league hits, that's a heck of a career.
Felipe Alou and his son, Moises, both surpassed the 2-thousand hit plateau in their careers.
What is interesting is that Moises Alou collected 2,134 hits compared to Felipe's 2,101. That's a measley 33 hits separating father and son.
Are there any other father/son combinations that have as close a hit differential? I'm sure Elias Sports Bureau could come up with the answer immediately. I don't have the time or the inclination to look it up.
I do know the biggest disparity of hits between a father and son in the Major Leagues. That would be the Rose combo. Pete Rose, the all-time hit leader, has 4,256 hits which is 4,254 more than his son Petey who had 2 hits in 14 career at-bats in the big leagues.
Felipe Alou and his son, Moises, both surpassed the 2-thousand hit plateau in their careers.
What is interesting is that Moises Alou collected 2,134 hits compared to Felipe's 2,101. That's a measley 33 hits separating father and son.
Are there any other father/son combinations that have as close a hit differential? I'm sure Elias Sports Bureau could come up with the answer immediately. I don't have the time or the inclination to look it up.
I do know the biggest disparity of hits between a father and son in the Major Leagues. That would be the Rose combo. Pete Rose, the all-time hit leader, has 4,256 hits which is 4,254 more than his son Petey who had 2 hits in 14 career at-bats in the big leagues.
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