The Oakland Athletics are thinking about signing Manny Ramirez? Really?
With all the young, impressionable players the A's have, signing steroid cheat and first class moron Manny Ramirez would be the dumbest move in the history of baseball. Well, one of them. The Mets sending Nolan Ryan to the Angels for a washed up Jim Fregosi was pretty bad.
How stupid would the signing of Ramirez be? More idiotic than Ramirez getting busted for steroids...not once but twice!
I cannot understand why any team would sign Ramirez never mind the A's.
Oakland isn't going anywhere this season. They will be lucky not to lose 100 games this season. Why not let a younger player develop and get valuable at-bats than to give playing time to a washed up has-been and clubhouse cancer like Ramirez. If Billy Beane signs Ramirez then every copy of the book and movie "Moneyball" should be seized and dumped into an active volcano.
It is my hope that no team signs him and he just goes away for good.
And for the Hall of Fame for Manny? No. No. And no.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
AL Is A Beast
Quick, the best team in the American League heading into spring training?
There is not one team that stands out as the favorite or best team. There are six teams in the mix.
The Angels and Rangers should be an awesome battle for West supremacy all season.
In the East, the Yankees, Rays and Red Sox will be in the hunt. I would give a slight edge to the Yanks but with those teams, who knows.
In the Central, the Tigers seem to be the class of that division.
I wouldn't be surprised if any of the six above teams won the AL pennant. I would be very surprised if a different team does.
Which team, other than the ones listed above has the best shot to advance to the World Series?
I don't know. Indians? White Sox? Blue Jays?
Should be a fun summer in the American League.
There is not one team that stands out as the favorite or best team. There are six teams in the mix.
The Angels and Rangers should be an awesome battle for West supremacy all season.
In the East, the Yankees, Rays and Red Sox will be in the hunt. I would give a slight edge to the Yanks but with those teams, who knows.
In the Central, the Tigers seem to be the class of that division.
I wouldn't be surprised if any of the six above teams won the AL pennant. I would be very surprised if a different team does.
Which team, other than the ones listed above has the best shot to advance to the World Series?
I don't know. Indians? White Sox? Blue Jays?
Should be a fun summer in the American League.
Tony Plush
A sudden thought came to me a few moments ago. That was, which Major Leaguer would I most like to punch in the face?
It took all of 10-second to come to my conclusion. Nyger Morgan of the Brewers, who's alter ego is Tony Plush.
Morgan just bothers me and gets under my skin as he does with many other people. I'm not alone in that.
Would I punch him in the face? Sure...if there was no way he would retaliate and if I was immune from punishment.
Actually, if Morgan/Plush reads this he'll probably come find me when the Brewers visit Coors Field this upcoming season. If he throws the first punch I'll gladly fire back. Although, with his hockey playing background, I'd likely be on a liquid diet for six weeks. Seriously, this guy bugs me to no end and it's kind of unhealthy to be thinking about punching him in the mug. Don't you think? What is wrong with me?
It took all of 10-second to come to my conclusion. Nyger Morgan of the Brewers, who's alter ego is Tony Plush.
Morgan just bothers me and gets under my skin as he does with many other people. I'm not alone in that.
Would I punch him in the face? Sure...if there was no way he would retaliate and if I was immune from punishment.
Actually, if Morgan/Plush reads this he'll probably come find me when the Brewers visit Coors Field this upcoming season. If he throws the first punch I'll gladly fire back. Although, with his hockey playing background, I'd likely be on a liquid diet for six weeks. Seriously, this guy bugs me to no end and it's kind of unhealthy to be thinking about punching him in the mug. Don't you think? What is wrong with me?
V-Mart Smarting
The Tigers are glad that they have Prince Fielder in their lineup now that it looks as if DH, sometimes catcher, Victor Martinez will be done for the year and who knows how long after that.
He tore his ACL doing off-season conditioning. He had microfracture surgery on the left knee last week and he'll need another operation on the knee in 6 to 8 weeks. His catching days could be over.
Detroit will miss his bat terribly. He knocked in 103 runs while hitting a robust .330. Tough deal for Martinez and the Tigers.
He tore his ACL doing off-season conditioning. He had microfracture surgery on the left knee last week and he'll need another operation on the knee in 6 to 8 weeks. His catching days could be over.
Detroit will miss his bat terribly. He knocked in 103 runs while hitting a robust .330. Tough deal for Martinez and the Tigers.
Kim Gone
Yankees field reporter Kim Jones has left the YES network.
My only comment...YESSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!
I know, that was mean.
My only comment...YESSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!
I know, that was mean.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Thanks To The Caseman
Last Sunday night, while preparing for our radio show, I was sitting in my back studio when co-host Casey Bloyer showed up with a white paper bag.
He handed me the bad and said, "This is for you."
I reached into the bag and pulled out a baseball in a fancy display case. The ball had been autographed by my childhood hero, the late Bobby Murcer.
"I know he was your guy so I thought you'd want it," Casey said.
Casey used to work in the sports memorabilia business and he had the letter of authenticity to back it. Plus, the company he worked for at the time held private signings to insure the signatures were legit.
We have a segment on the show called "Chum and Bum" and I meant to give Casey a "Chum" for his generosity and thoughtfulness. But I forgot. He gets a "Chum" here and he'll get another one on the next show.
I have pictures and baseball cards of Bobby Murcer. Of course I have the memories of him playing that can never be taken away. I also have the memory of meeting Murcer on a few occasions. But I never had his autograph. I was too shy to ask for one. Now, I have that autograph and it is proudly displayed in my studio for all visitors to see.
Thanks Caseman.
He handed me the bad and said, "This is for you."
I reached into the bag and pulled out a baseball in a fancy display case. The ball had been autographed by my childhood hero, the late Bobby Murcer.
"I know he was your guy so I thought you'd want it," Casey said.
Casey used to work in the sports memorabilia business and he had the letter of authenticity to back it. Plus, the company he worked for at the time held private signings to insure the signatures were legit.
We have a segment on the show called "Chum and Bum" and I meant to give Casey a "Chum" for his generosity and thoughtfulness. But I forgot. He gets a "Chum" here and he'll get another one on the next show.
I have pictures and baseball cards of Bobby Murcer. Of course I have the memories of him playing that can never be taken away. I also have the memory of meeting Murcer on a few occasions. But I never had his autograph. I was too shy to ask for one. Now, I have that autograph and it is proudly displayed in my studio for all visitors to see.
Thanks Caseman.
One Of My Faves
I haven't written about the retirement of Craig Counsell who recently moved into the Brewers front office after a 16-year career.
He wasn't the greatest player ever or the most impressive. But he was a guy who was a grinder and the kind of serviceable player every team could use.
Counsell will always be remembered for scoring the winning run in the last two World Series that ended with a hit. In 1997 he scored on the series clinching hit by Edgar Renteria that won it for the Marlins and then in 2001, Luis Gonzalez' bloop hit scored Counsell and lifted the Diamondbacks to the title.
Of course most people will remember Counsell for his awkward and painful looking lefty batting stance. Bat held high as could be, back arched, peeking around his right arm, I have no idea how he could hit that way.
I've always admired scrappy, winning ballplayers and Counsell was that type. He got every bit of potential out of his ability. One day he'll make a really good manager.
He wasn't the greatest player ever or the most impressive. But he was a guy who was a grinder and the kind of serviceable player every team could use.
Counsell will always be remembered for scoring the winning run in the last two World Series that ended with a hit. In 1997 he scored on the series clinching hit by Edgar Renteria that won it for the Marlins and then in 2001, Luis Gonzalez' bloop hit scored Counsell and lifted the Diamondbacks to the title.
Of course most people will remember Counsell for his awkward and painful looking lefty batting stance. Bat held high as could be, back arched, peeking around his right arm, I have no idea how he could hit that way.
I've always admired scrappy, winning ballplayers and Counsell was that type. He got every bit of potential out of his ability. One day he'll make a really good manager.
BR's Current Power Rankings
My mind is drifting to October and the World Series. Who knows who will be in the Fall Classic? A lot of things will happen in the next 10 months.
Anyway, with nothing better to do right now, I'll rank the teams, from 1-30, I think have the best chance to win the World Series. I guess you would call these my current power rankings.
1-Rangers
2-Phillies
3-Angels
4-Yankees
5-Tigers
6-Giants
7-Rays
8-Braves
9-Cardinals
10-Red Sox
11-Brewers
12-Marlins
13-Diamondbacks
14-Blue Jays
15-Reds
16-Indians
17-Nationals
18-Dodgers
19-White Sox
20-Rockies
21-Cubs
22-Mariners
23-Royals
24-Orioles
25-Padres
26-Pirates
27-Twins
28-Athletics
29-Mets
30-Astros
Anyway, with nothing better to do right now, I'll rank the teams, from 1-30, I think have the best chance to win the World Series. I guess you would call these my current power rankings.
1-Rangers
2-Phillies
3-Angels
4-Yankees
5-Tigers
6-Giants
7-Rays
8-Braves
9-Cardinals
10-Red Sox
11-Brewers
12-Marlins
13-Diamondbacks
14-Blue Jays
15-Reds
16-Indians
17-Nationals
18-Dodgers
19-White Sox
20-Rockies
21-Cubs
22-Mariners
23-Royals
24-Orioles
25-Padres
26-Pirates
27-Twins
28-Athletics
29-Mets
30-Astros
Cuban 0-3
Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban was shot down again in his bid to buy a Major League franchise.
This time his effort to purchase the Dodgers was denied. Previously, he tried to buy the Rangers and Cubs.
Baseball simply doesn't want an outspoken owner like Cuban in their club. He'll be vocal, visable and innovative. That doesn't jive with the staid world of baseball owners.
No doubt, Cuban would be a great owner. He's proven that by taking a Mavericks franchise that was an NBA laughing stock and turned them into perennial contenders, including the NBA championship last season. He's also very fan friendly and seems to enjoy being a fan himself.
Would you rather have Mark Cuban own your baseball team or the idiots who run the Mets?
Commissioner for life Bud Selig should be ashamed that they have blackballed Mark Cuban from becoming a Major League Baseball owner.
This time his effort to purchase the Dodgers was denied. Previously, he tried to buy the Rangers and Cubs.
Baseball simply doesn't want an outspoken owner like Cuban in their club. He'll be vocal, visable and innovative. That doesn't jive with the staid world of baseball owners.
No doubt, Cuban would be a great owner. He's proven that by taking a Mavericks franchise that was an NBA laughing stock and turned them into perennial contenders, including the NBA championship last season. He's also very fan friendly and seems to enjoy being a fan himself.
Would you rather have Mark Cuban own your baseball team or the idiots who run the Mets?
Commissioner for life Bud Selig should be ashamed that they have blackballed Mark Cuban from becoming a Major League Baseball owner.
Mr. Drab
The Twins will retire the number 10, worn by two time World Series winning manager Tom Kelly.
What do I remember most about Kelly?
He never smiled. He never showed any emotion. He just sat there like a frog on a lilly pad. Even when they won the World Series and his players celebrated like little kids on the field, Kelly just sat stoicly on the bench.
His interviews were basically mumble sessions. I'll be honest, I don't know how he could lead a team to one World Series title, nevermind two.
Well, good for Tom Kelly and I hope he enjoys his number retirement ceremony. I just hope he can crack a smile and maybe even utter an interesting sound bite. Or two. But that might be asking a lot.
What do I remember most about Kelly?
He never smiled. He never showed any emotion. He just sat there like a frog on a lilly pad. Even when they won the World Series and his players celebrated like little kids on the field, Kelly just sat stoicly on the bench.
His interviews were basically mumble sessions. I'll be honest, I don't know how he could lead a team to one World Series title, nevermind two.
Well, good for Tom Kelly and I hope he enjoys his number retirement ceremony. I just hope he can crack a smile and maybe even utter an interesting sound bite. Or two. But that might be asking a lot.
Kyle Williams
I didn't realize it at the time but Kyle Williams, the guy whose two turnovers in the NFC championship game helped the Giants beat the 49ers, is the son of White Sox General Manager Ken Williams.
Following the game last Sunday, Williams received numerous death threats. Really? How sick and disturbing is that? If you send a death threat to an athlete for simply losing a game, how crappy must your life be? Maybe you should turn that death threat around and take yourself out instead.
While sports is great and is supposed to be fun, it certainly has its share of ups and downs from a fans point of view. Williams fumbles against the Giants were a down moment for 49ers fans, no question. But to send a guy death threats? That's beyond crossing the line.
Hopefully, Kyle Williams will come out of this stronger. At least he'll be able to get free tickets to see the White Sox this season to take his mind off football.
I wonder if he should have played baseball instead. He might be thinking the same thing too.
Following the game last Sunday, Williams received numerous death threats. Really? How sick and disturbing is that? If you send a death threat to an athlete for simply losing a game, how crappy must your life be? Maybe you should turn that death threat around and take yourself out instead.
While sports is great and is supposed to be fun, it certainly has its share of ups and downs from a fans point of view. Williams fumbles against the Giants were a down moment for 49ers fans, no question. But to send a guy death threats? That's beyond crossing the line.
Hopefully, Kyle Williams will come out of this stronger. At least he'll be able to get free tickets to see the White Sox this season to take his mind off football.
I wonder if he should have played baseball instead. He might be thinking the same thing too.
Prince in Motown
Finally, Prince Fielder has a home and that home is Detroit where he spent much time as a youth when his dad Cecil was banging out home runs. Same city, different ballpark.
All it took for the Tigers to land Fielder was a 9-year, 214-million dollar deal, which works out to a little more than 23-million per season.
Funny, we hardly bat an eye anymore when a guy signs a contract to that magnitude these days. It's just business as usual.
One might look at Fielder's portly physique and wonder if 9-years was too long. I wouldn't want to give any player that long a contract. Too much can go wrong. But with Fielder, it is important to note that in his six full seasons with the Brewers, the fewest amount of games he played in was 157. In the last three seasons he's missed just one game. He's durable despite his 5'11, 275 pound (listed) frame. Plus, he's only 27. He'll turn 28 in may so he is just entering his prime. As the contract enters the final years, he can always DH. Again, 9-years is a lot but Fielder might be one of the few guys who warrants a deal that length.
The question is what to do with Miguel Cabrera. Right now the plan for the Tigers is to put him at third base. He'll probably have to lose a little weight and shape up somewhat to be effective there.
Not every player likes being moved. Just ask Hanley Ramirez who squawked about playing third when the Marlins signed Jose Reyes.
If Cabrera makes the move smoothly, you might as well give the AL Central to the Tigers right now. Right? Well, not so fast. It's baseball. You never know. But right now you have to make the Tigers the favorites in that less than daunting division.
All it took for the Tigers to land Fielder was a 9-year, 214-million dollar deal, which works out to a little more than 23-million per season.
Funny, we hardly bat an eye anymore when a guy signs a contract to that magnitude these days. It's just business as usual.
One might look at Fielder's portly physique and wonder if 9-years was too long. I wouldn't want to give any player that long a contract. Too much can go wrong. But with Fielder, it is important to note that in his six full seasons with the Brewers, the fewest amount of games he played in was 157. In the last three seasons he's missed just one game. He's durable despite his 5'11, 275 pound (listed) frame. Plus, he's only 27. He'll turn 28 in may so he is just entering his prime. As the contract enters the final years, he can always DH. Again, 9-years is a lot but Fielder might be one of the few guys who warrants a deal that length.
The question is what to do with Miguel Cabrera. Right now the plan for the Tigers is to put him at third base. He'll probably have to lose a little weight and shape up somewhat to be effective there.
Not every player likes being moved. Just ask Hanley Ramirez who squawked about playing third when the Marlins signed Jose Reyes.
If Cabrera makes the move smoothly, you might as well give the AL Central to the Tigers right now. Right? Well, not so fast. It's baseball. You never know. But right now you have to make the Tigers the favorites in that less than daunting division.
Yu Makes Grand Entrance
Sorry for the lack of posts lately. A lot has been happening in baseball of late but I've been swamped with work and other stuff.
Was in Dallas last week for the book launch of "Sports Talk: The Personality Behind The Personalities." The event was great, sold some books with co-author David Brody and a splendid time was had by all. Also had a book signing in Castle Rock, Colorado this week so I haven't had much time to update this blog.
While in Dallas, I was hoping to take a trip to the Rangers ballpark in Arlington but didn't have time.
However, we did have time to go see the "Grassy Knoll" in Dealey Plaza where President Kennedy was assassinated on November 22, 1963. Very surreal to be there. It gives one a different perspective from what you see in pictures. Thanks to Courtney Lynch for taking us there and sharing some conspiracy theories with David and me.
Also while in Dallas, the Rangers had a press conference to announce the signing of Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish. While getting off the plane in Texas, Darvish, 25, was wearing a T-shirt with what appeared to be a marijuana leaf on it. Not the smartest thing in the world I would think.
Darvish doesn't look like most Japanese players. He's 6'5 and in his time in Japan compiled a 93-38 record with a 1.99 ERA. That's impressive in any league.
Time will tell if he's the real deal but my suspicions are he is. Nolan Ryan and the Rangers aren't going to throw money around for someone who 'might' be good. The Rangers paid a 52-million dollar posting fee to Yu's Japanese team, the Nippon Ham Fighters and are forking 60-million over 6-years to Darvish. That's a big investment for any team. If he pans out, Darvish will make Rangers fans forget C.J. Wilson pretty quickly.
Was in Dallas last week for the book launch of "Sports Talk: The Personality Behind The Personalities." The event was great, sold some books with co-author David Brody and a splendid time was had by all. Also had a book signing in Castle Rock, Colorado this week so I haven't had much time to update this blog.
While in Dallas, I was hoping to take a trip to the Rangers ballpark in Arlington but didn't have time.
However, we did have time to go see the "Grassy Knoll" in Dealey Plaza where President Kennedy was assassinated on November 22, 1963. Very surreal to be there. It gives one a different perspective from what you see in pictures. Thanks to Courtney Lynch for taking us there and sharing some conspiracy theories with David and me.
Also while in Dallas, the Rangers had a press conference to announce the signing of Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish. While getting off the plane in Texas, Darvish, 25, was wearing a T-shirt with what appeared to be a marijuana leaf on it. Not the smartest thing in the world I would think.
Darvish doesn't look like most Japanese players. He's 6'5 and in his time in Japan compiled a 93-38 record with a 1.99 ERA. That's impressive in any league.
Time will tell if he's the real deal but my suspicions are he is. Nolan Ryan and the Rangers aren't going to throw money around for someone who 'might' be good. The Rangers paid a 52-million dollar posting fee to Yu's Japanese team, the Nippon Ham Fighters and are forking 60-million over 6-years to Darvish. That's a big investment for any team. If he pans out, Darvish will make Rangers fans forget C.J. Wilson pretty quickly.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Reading Material
It is the time of year when every time I go to the supermarket I have to stop at the magazine section to look for the baseball preview magazines.
I'm getting the itch.
Every year I get the Sporting News Baseball Yearbook and the Athlons preview issue.
So far, nothing. Which is fine I suppose since most teams rosters aren't even compiled yet and there are still free agents out there, like Prince Fielder, still waiting to land on a team.
The longer the wait the more accurate the magazines should be. But I still get impatient, probably out of habit.
I'm ready for pitchers and catchers to report.
I'm getting the itch.
Every year I get the Sporting News Baseball Yearbook and the Athlons preview issue.
So far, nothing. Which is fine I suppose since most teams rosters aren't even compiled yet and there are still free agents out there, like Prince Fielder, still waiting to land on a team.
The longer the wait the more accurate the magazines should be. But I still get impatient, probably out of habit.
I'm ready for pitchers and catchers to report.
Stick to Softball?
I thought immediately of Kansas City Royals first base coach Doug Sisson today when I read that George Steinbrenner's daughter Jennifer hurt herself at Yankees fantasy camp in Tampa, Florida.
She apparently hurt her leg running out a ground ball at a camp for women.
Now back to Sisson.
Doug, who I nicknamed "The Sizzler" back in 1994 when I was announcing minor league baseball, had one of the all-time great quotes that year.
Rick Schultz, my broadcast partner, was annoyed that he couldn't go on a road trip with me because he had to stay behind to broadcast a women's baseball game at Dutchess Stadium in New York. Rick was worried about how he would fill the time if the game was boring. I suggested he get a comment from Sisson on women's baseball before he left on the road trip.
Doug said, "I think it's nice that they want to attempt it. Obviously it's going to be well below the standards that anybody is used to seeing because physically they can't play baseball like the men do. And they're limited in certain areas, but again, more power to them for giving it a shot. But that's why there's softball so women can compete at something."
So maybe Steinbrenner's daughter should just stick to softball.
As for that long ago women's game in 1994 that Rick broadcast? He said it was, "Terrible. Just awful. You wouldn't believe how bad it was. They couldn't play and it took four and a half hours to finish. I ran out of things to say in the second inning. It was bad."
She apparently hurt her leg running out a ground ball at a camp for women.
Now back to Sisson.
Doug, who I nicknamed "The Sizzler" back in 1994 when I was announcing minor league baseball, had one of the all-time great quotes that year.
Rick Schultz, my broadcast partner, was annoyed that he couldn't go on a road trip with me because he had to stay behind to broadcast a women's baseball game at Dutchess Stadium in New York. Rick was worried about how he would fill the time if the game was boring. I suggested he get a comment from Sisson on women's baseball before he left on the road trip.
Doug said, "I think it's nice that they want to attempt it. Obviously it's going to be well below the standards that anybody is used to seeing because physically they can't play baseball like the men do. And they're limited in certain areas, but again, more power to them for giving it a shot. But that's why there's softball so women can compete at something."
So maybe Steinbrenner's daughter should just stick to softball.
As for that long ago women's game in 1994 that Rick broadcast? He said it was, "Terrible. Just awful. You wouldn't believe how bad it was. They couldn't play and it took four and a half hours to finish. I ran out of things to say in the second inning. It was bad."
Fielder On The Loose
The Cubs say that free agent first baseman Prince Fielder won't be suiting up for them this season. Cubs fans have to be disappointed to hear that since he would do some serious damage at Wrigley Field. But I'll reserved judgement on that since team President Theo Epstein has a plan and a track record.
Where will Fielder end up?
He met with the Texas Rangers and the thought of him in that lineup is frightening. Not only would he be surrounded by great hitters, he would be slugging in a very hitter friendly ballpark. Speaking on behalf of the rest of the American League, I hope he doesn't sign with Texas.
The Nationals remain in the hunt to land the portly, yet durable first baseman. He would certainly propel Washington into contender status. They are a team that is getting better and with a healthy Stephen Stasburg and the arrival soon of Bryce Harper the Nats will be a handful, especially if they get Fielder.
Where will Fielder end up?
He met with the Texas Rangers and the thought of him in that lineup is frightening. Not only would he be surrounded by great hitters, he would be slugging in a very hitter friendly ballpark. Speaking on behalf of the rest of the American League, I hope he doesn't sign with Texas.
The Nationals remain in the hunt to land the portly, yet durable first baseman. He would certainly propel Washington into contender status. They are a team that is getting better and with a healthy Stephen Stasburg and the arrival soon of Bryce Harper the Nats will be a handful, especially if they get Fielder.
Jack Denied Again
For the 13th consecutive year, pitcher Jack Morris didn't garner the 75-percent of the votes needed to be elected to the Hall of Fame.
Does Morris belong in the Hall? Hell yes he belongs.
Unlike my previous post when I said that I didn't view Barry Larkin as a future Hall of Famer when he was playing, the opposite is true of Jack Morris. His complete game, 10-inning shutout in Game 7 of the 1991 World Series cememted my belief that he was a future Hall of Famer.
If you read the "New Hall Members?" post I made last Saturday you'll understand my conspiracy theory on what is keeping Morris out of the Hall.
By the way, I think the voting for the Hall of Fame should be revamped. The fact that only writers vote for the Hall of Fame bothers me. Broadcasters should also get to vote. Vin Scully doesn't have a Hall of Fame vote? Marty Brennaman doesn't have a vote? Same with Bob Costas, Jerry Coleman and all the other great announcers don't have a say in who gets into the Hall of Fame of the sport they covered? I don't get it.
By the way, Eric Young, Javy Lopez and Brad Radke got Hall of Fame votes. Nice job writers, nice job.
Does Morris belong in the Hall? Hell yes he belongs.
Unlike my previous post when I said that I didn't view Barry Larkin as a future Hall of Famer when he was playing, the opposite is true of Jack Morris. His complete game, 10-inning shutout in Game 7 of the 1991 World Series cememted my belief that he was a future Hall of Famer.
If you read the "New Hall Members?" post I made last Saturday you'll understand my conspiracy theory on what is keeping Morris out of the Hall.
By the way, I think the voting for the Hall of Fame should be revamped. The fact that only writers vote for the Hall of Fame bothers me. Broadcasters should also get to vote. Vin Scully doesn't have a Hall of Fame vote? Marty Brennaman doesn't have a vote? Same with Bob Costas, Jerry Coleman and all the other great announcers don't have a say in who gets into the Hall of Fame of the sport they covered? I don't get it.
By the way, Eric Young, Javy Lopez and Brad Radke got Hall of Fame votes. Nice job writers, nice job.
Larkin Gets The Call
The newest member of the baseball Hall of Fame is former Reds shortstop Barry Larkin. When you saw Larkin play did you think "future Hall of Famer?"
I didn't.
But he did get 86-percent of the vote in his third year of eligibility but I will say that he's not the kind of Hall of Famer that gets me excited. He was very good, don't get me wrong but I don't think he was an all-time great.
I didn't.
But he did get 86-percent of the vote in his third year of eligibility but I will say that he's not the kind of Hall of Famer that gets me excited. He was very good, don't get me wrong but I don't think he was an all-time great.
No More Calzones
My old guy's baseball team had a big meeting today at Johnny's New York Pizza in Lakewood, Colorado, located on Wadsworth Avenue, just north of Mississippi. Even though John, the proprietor is a Mets fan, I don't mind giving him a plug for a couple of reasons. He isn't like most obnoxious Mets fans so I actually like him. Plus, his food is outstanding.
Well, last year our team, the Orioles made the playoffs but fizzled out shortly after. Our player/manager Steve Brouwer has made a few key off-season acquisitions and I think we'll be a contending club. However, we are no longer the Orioles. Our new name is the Rattlers. Personally, I wish we stayed the Orioles since I don't feel like shelling out more money to buy a new uniform.
I've started my off-season workouts and I find that as I get older I need to work harder. But the harder I work the more I need time to recover.
Today at our meeting I had a meatball calzone which is what I normally get at Johnny's. But since I'm in training I think this will be the last calzone I eat for a while. To say they are filling would be an understatement. It's like eating a football. So for now, it is with great sadness that I say goodbye to Johnny's meatball calzones. But I'll be back.
Well, last year our team, the Orioles made the playoffs but fizzled out shortly after. Our player/manager Steve Brouwer has made a few key off-season acquisitions and I think we'll be a contending club. However, we are no longer the Orioles. Our new name is the Rattlers. Personally, I wish we stayed the Orioles since I don't feel like shelling out more money to buy a new uniform.
I've started my off-season workouts and I find that as I get older I need to work harder. But the harder I work the more I need time to recover.
Today at our meeting I had a meatball calzone which is what I normally get at Johnny's. But since I'm in training I think this will be the last calzone I eat for a while. To say they are filling would be an understatement. It's like eating a football. So for now, it is with great sadness that I say goodbye to Johnny's meatball calzones. But I'll be back.
New Excuse
Apparently six teams are interested in Cuban baseball prospect and defector Yoenis Cespedes. Those teams being both Chicago teams, the Orioles, Marlins, Tigers and Indians. Surprisingly the Yankees and Red Sox have not been mentioned by Cespedes' agent. Usually they get mentioned to drive up the price.
Anyway, Cespedes, who defected to the Dominican Republic played his first game in the Dominican Winter League Thursday and struck out three times. After the game he said, "It's been 10 months since I last played a night game and I need time to adapt."
I'm probably being a little harsh on him but come on, don't drop the I haven't played in a night game in 10-months excuse. That's weak.
There is speculation that the 26-year old could command a contract from a Major League team in the vicinity of 30-million dollars.
Anyway, Cespedes, who defected to the Dominican Republic played his first game in the Dominican Winter League Thursday and struck out three times. After the game he said, "It's been 10 months since I last played a night game and I need time to adapt."
I'm probably being a little harsh on him but come on, don't drop the I haven't played in a night game in 10-months excuse. That's weak.
There is speculation that the 26-year old could command a contract from a Major League team in the vicinity of 30-million dollars.
Quality For Quality
Hated to see the Yankees trade catcher Jesus Montero to the Mariners. The guy can mash and will be one of the best hitters in baseball in short order for both power and average.
However, to get something good you have to give up something good and getting young righthander Michael Pineda, a guy who has top end of the rotation ability.
Pineda, a rookie last season, was 9-10 for the punchless Mariners with an ERA of 3.74. He faded a bit down the stretch but a lot of rookie pitchers do. His hits to innings pitched ration was outstanding (133 hits/171 innings) and he struck out 173. Plus, he has good control, walking only 55. CC Sabathia and Pineda will be a nice 1-2 combination for the Yanks, something they thought they would have when they signed the disappointing A.J. Burnett. Disappointing would be a nice way to put it. Pineda can also wear Sabathia's hand me down pants. The soon to be 23-year old is 6'7, 260 pounds.
The Mariners need Montero's bat. Not a great defensive catcher, he'll likely DH. But he'll provide some desperately needed offense. In a brief showing with the Yanks last season, the 21-year old hit .328 with 4 homers and 12 RBI's in just 61 AB's.
This looks like a deal that will help both teams.
However, to get something good you have to give up something good and getting young righthander Michael Pineda, a guy who has top end of the rotation ability.
Pineda, a rookie last season, was 9-10 for the punchless Mariners with an ERA of 3.74. He faded a bit down the stretch but a lot of rookie pitchers do. His hits to innings pitched ration was outstanding (133 hits/171 innings) and he struck out 173. Plus, he has good control, walking only 55. CC Sabathia and Pineda will be a nice 1-2 combination for the Yanks, something they thought they would have when they signed the disappointing A.J. Burnett. Disappointing would be a nice way to put it. Pineda can also wear Sabathia's hand me down pants. The soon to be 23-year old is 6'7, 260 pounds.
The Mariners need Montero's bat. Not a great defensive catcher, he'll likely DH. But he'll provide some desperately needed offense. In a brief showing with the Yanks last season, the 21-year old hit .328 with 4 homers and 12 RBI's in just 61 AB's.
This looks like a deal that will help both teams.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Ben Petrick
Just read a riveting article on former Rockies catcher Ben Petrick, written by Steve Wolf on espn.com.
The article details Petrick's battle with Parkinson's disease which robbed him of his career but not his attitude or the way he lives his life.
I remember Petrick as a very polite and quiet young player when I spoke to him a few times in the Rockies Coors Field clubhouse. I never would have or could have suspected that he had the onset of Parkinson's and the article shows he he tried to hide it from people.
I would recommend you read the article. It will educate you on this hideous disease and will also let you into the world of a very strong, courageous guy.
Petrick also has written a book about his life. The book is titled "Forty Thousand To One." You can get the book at www.BenPetrick.com.
The article details Petrick's battle with Parkinson's disease which robbed him of his career but not his attitude or the way he lives his life.
I remember Petrick as a very polite and quiet young player when I spoke to him a few times in the Rockies Coors Field clubhouse. I never would have or could have suspected that he had the onset of Parkinson's and the article shows he he tried to hide it from people.
I would recommend you read the article. It will educate you on this hideous disease and will also let you into the world of a very strong, courageous guy.
Petrick also has written a book about his life. The book is titled "Forty Thousand To One." You can get the book at www.BenPetrick.com.
New Hall Members?
Will Barry Larkin or Jack Morris get the call on Monday alerting them that they are the newest members of the baseball Hall of Fame?
Larkin and Morris should have already been elected to the Hall of Fame. This will be Larkin's 3rd year on the ballot and Morris' 13th.
Let's suppose Morris gets elected. Why wasn't he Hall of Fame material on his first, fourth, eighth or eleventh time on the ballot but suddenly in year 13 he is? Why?
Same with Ron Santo who was elected last month by the Veteran's committee. Why wasn't he elected years earlier. It almost seems like there was a conspiracy to keep him out until he died.
Jim Rice made it on his 15th and final year on the writers ballot. His stats didn't get better after he retired. Did the writers decide not to elect him until his final opportunity because he was salty to the media?
Morris wasn't a pal of the media either. He had his prickly side. Do the writers make him wait and sweat it out until his 15th and final year too? Do they bypass him altogether and let the veterans committee deal with him?
Morris was a Hall of Fame pitcher. No doubt about that. He belongs in the Hall of Fame and if he doesnt' get in on Monday then the writers should be ashamed of themselves...again. Larkin should get in as well.
Larkin and Morris should have already been elected to the Hall of Fame. This will be Larkin's 3rd year on the ballot and Morris' 13th.
Let's suppose Morris gets elected. Why wasn't he Hall of Fame material on his first, fourth, eighth or eleventh time on the ballot but suddenly in year 13 he is? Why?
Same with Ron Santo who was elected last month by the Veteran's committee. Why wasn't he elected years earlier. It almost seems like there was a conspiracy to keep him out until he died.
Jim Rice made it on his 15th and final year on the writers ballot. His stats didn't get better after he retired. Did the writers decide not to elect him until his final opportunity because he was salty to the media?
Morris wasn't a pal of the media either. He had his prickly side. Do the writers make him wait and sweat it out until his 15th and final year too? Do they bypass him altogether and let the veterans committee deal with him?
Morris was a Hall of Fame pitcher. No doubt about that. He belongs in the Hall of Fame and if he doesnt' get in on Monday then the writers should be ashamed of themselves...again. Larkin should get in as well.
Big Z
Baseball history is littered with head cases. After all, you could say that the people who play the game are simply a microcosm of society and if you read the papers, watch the news on TV or just walk around the shopping mall you will see a multitude of headcases and wack jobs.
With that in mind, the Cubs finally rid themselves of their biggest head case in recent memory with the trading of Carlos Zambrano to the Marlins for righthander Chris Volstad, a guy who was 5-13 last season with an ERA close to five.
Obviously, new GM Theo Epstein is cleaning house and Zambrano had to go. Despite 9 consecutive winning seasons and a 125-81 record with the Cubs, Big Z was also a Big D...distraction. With Zambrano making 18-million dollars per season, it was too much of a risk for the Cubs to take, wondering the next time he would freak out. Whether arguing with managers and umpires or fighting with teammates or making stupid comments to the media, Zambrano wore out his welcome.
I do like Zambrano. He's a colorful character and if he was on his best behavior or not, he was always interesting and entertaining. Now that he is 30-years old, maybe he'll mature a bit in Miami. Mmm. Yeah, you're right. Probably not. Although the combination of Zambrano and Marlins Manager Ozzie Guillen will be very intriguing. I wonder which one of those head cases will explode first! It's certainly worth keeping an eye on, beginning with day one of spring training.
With that in mind, the Cubs finally rid themselves of their biggest head case in recent memory with the trading of Carlos Zambrano to the Marlins for righthander Chris Volstad, a guy who was 5-13 last season with an ERA close to five.
Obviously, new GM Theo Epstein is cleaning house and Zambrano had to go. Despite 9 consecutive winning seasons and a 125-81 record with the Cubs, Big Z was also a Big D...distraction. With Zambrano making 18-million dollars per season, it was too much of a risk for the Cubs to take, wondering the next time he would freak out. Whether arguing with managers and umpires or fighting with teammates or making stupid comments to the media, Zambrano wore out his welcome.
I do like Zambrano. He's a colorful character and if he was on his best behavior or not, he was always interesting and entertaining. Now that he is 30-years old, maybe he'll mature a bit in Miami. Mmm. Yeah, you're right. Probably not. Although the combination of Zambrano and Marlins Manager Ozzie Guillen will be very intriguing. I wonder which one of those head cases will explode first! It's certainly worth keeping an eye on, beginning with day one of spring training.
Hip Hip Jorge
After a career spent entirely in pinstripes, Yankees catcher Jorge Posada is going to retire at the age of 40.
When you look at the Yankees catching lineage you cannot help but be impressed. Bill Dickey, Yogi Berra, Elston Howard, Thurman Munson and Jorge Posada.
Is Posada a Hall of Famer?
Most people, myself included, feel his numbers come up a little short. However, 275 career homers, 1,065 RBI's, a lifetime .273 average, five All-Star games and four World Series rings is a pretty damn good career. Not to mention the more than 117-million dollars the Steinbrenners shelled out to him.
As for the Hall of Fame, his lifetime average is higher than Johnny Bench, Carlton Fisk and Gary Carter. He has more home runs and RBI's than Roy Campanella, Ernie Lombardi and Mickey Cochrane. So to dismiss him as a Hall of Famer is premature.
While I don't think he'll get in, if he did I wouldn't have a beef with it.
One thing I always liked about Posada was the fact that he never wore batting gloves. I liked that old-school approach he always took.
I'm sure Posada wanted to keep playing but there was no longer any room on the Yankees roster for him. In an era when it has become rare for a player to spend such a long career with just one team, it's nice that Posada won't be wearing another team's uniform just to try to pump his stats for Hall of Fame reasons.
I'm sure there will be a spot in the Yankees organization for Posada. No question he is managerial material. Maybe one day he'll manage in the big leagues. Hopefully with the Yankees.
When you look at the Yankees catching lineage you cannot help but be impressed. Bill Dickey, Yogi Berra, Elston Howard, Thurman Munson and Jorge Posada.
Is Posada a Hall of Famer?
Most people, myself included, feel his numbers come up a little short. However, 275 career homers, 1,065 RBI's, a lifetime .273 average, five All-Star games and four World Series rings is a pretty damn good career. Not to mention the more than 117-million dollars the Steinbrenners shelled out to him.
As for the Hall of Fame, his lifetime average is higher than Johnny Bench, Carlton Fisk and Gary Carter. He has more home runs and RBI's than Roy Campanella, Ernie Lombardi and Mickey Cochrane. So to dismiss him as a Hall of Famer is premature.
While I don't think he'll get in, if he did I wouldn't have a beef with it.
One thing I always liked about Posada was the fact that he never wore batting gloves. I liked that old-school approach he always took.
I'm sure Posada wanted to keep playing but there was no longer any room on the Yankees roster for him. In an era when it has become rare for a player to spend such a long career with just one team, it's nice that Posada won't be wearing another team's uniform just to try to pump his stats for Hall of Fame reasons.
I'm sure there will be a spot in the Yankees organization for Posada. No question he is managerial material. Maybe one day he'll manage in the big leagues. Hopefully with the Yankees.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Mandrake Passes
One of the key players for the Giants in the 50's, Don Mueller, passed away last Wednesday at the age of 84. He got a key hit in the 9th inning of the 1951 "Bobby Thomson" game in which "The Giants Win The Pennant, The Giants Win The Pennant..." Mueller would have been on base but hurt his ankle sliding into third on a double by Whitey Lockman.
In 1954 he led the big leagues in hits with 212 and he hit .389 in the Giants four game sweep of the Indians in the World Series.
A career .296 hitter, Mueller had one of the great baseball nicknames, "Mandrake The Magician," named after a comic strip and his ability to knock baseballs through the infield.
I feel sad when a former Brooklyn Dodger or New York Giant passes away. There aren't that many left anymore.
In 1954 he led the big leagues in hits with 212 and he hit .389 in the Giants four game sweep of the Indians in the World Series.
A career .296 hitter, Mueller had one of the great baseball nicknames, "Mandrake The Magician," named after a comic strip and his ability to knock baseballs through the infield.
I feel sad when a former Brooklyn Dodger or New York Giant passes away. There aren't that many left anymore.
Hall of Fame Ballot
My friend, Mike Vaccaro, the lead sports columnist at the New York Post, wrote today that he received his Hall of Fame ballot.
He shared with his readers whom he voted for this year.
Mike voted for seven former players:
Barry Larkin
Edgar Martinez
Tim Raines
Jack Morris
Don Mattingly
Jeff Bagwell
Bernie Williams
I agree with Larkin, Martinez and Morris. While I love Mattingly and Williams and I hope they get in someday, I think their numbers are a little short. Although, Mattingly and Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett have very similar numbers and Bernie has four World Series rings.
Tim Raines, in my opinion, falls a little short as well.
I think Jeff Bagwell is a Hall of Fame player. However, since he played in the steroid era, his numbers could be seen as curious to some. I would hold off on him in case something comes up in the next few years. I would rather put him in later if no evidence turns up than put him in now and then some type of proof links him to steroids.
As for my personal opinion of whether or not Bagwell used steroids, I don't know. I have no idea. The unfortunate thing is that every player who played in the "steroid era" is under the umbrella of suspicion. That is where former players union leader Donald Fehr and Commissioner Bud Selig really dropped the ball and let the sport down. And, in essence, let down every single person who played the game the right way...clean.
He shared with his readers whom he voted for this year.
Mike voted for seven former players:
Barry Larkin
Edgar Martinez
Tim Raines
Jack Morris
Don Mattingly
Jeff Bagwell
Bernie Williams
I agree with Larkin, Martinez and Morris. While I love Mattingly and Williams and I hope they get in someday, I think their numbers are a little short. Although, Mattingly and Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett have very similar numbers and Bernie has four World Series rings.
Tim Raines, in my opinion, falls a little short as well.
I think Jeff Bagwell is a Hall of Fame player. However, since he played in the steroid era, his numbers could be seen as curious to some. I would hold off on him in case something comes up in the next few years. I would rather put him in later if no evidence turns up than put him in now and then some type of proof links him to steroids.
As for my personal opinion of whether or not Bagwell used steroids, I don't know. I have no idea. The unfortunate thing is that every player who played in the "steroid era" is under the umbrella of suspicion. That is where former players union leader Donald Fehr and Commissioner Bud Selig really dropped the ball and let the sport down. And, in essence, let down every single person who played the game the right way...clean.
I Feel Good
Happy New Year everybody...and that means YOU!
I feel pretty good. I am settling in for an afternoon and evening of football as the Broncos host the Chiefs and the Cowboys visit the Giants. If the Broncos and Giants win they are in the playoffs. I love football. It's a nice diversion until baseball season.
Another reason I feel good is that I had a really nice workout today as I prepare for my fourth season of "old guy's" baseball.
When I stopped playing competitive baseball at the age of 31, I didn't think I'd ever play again. Then I discovered NABA, the National Adult Baseball Association. It is a well run, highly organized operation that has chapters in all age groups around the country. I play in the Over 35 division and the past three years have been a blast. I still love playing and I'll play as long as I can. We play every Sunday begining in late March/early April and run through August with the playoffs in September.
So that is why my off-season workouts will intensify from here on out. As I get older I have to work harder. The harder I work, the more it hurts. But a good kind of hurt.
Anyway, Opening Day is exactly three months away, April 1st. Which happens to be my 50th birthday. Holy crap I'm getting old. But when I play, I feel young again. And what better way to celebrate my birthday than playing baseball?
I feel pretty good. I am settling in for an afternoon and evening of football as the Broncos host the Chiefs and the Cowboys visit the Giants. If the Broncos and Giants win they are in the playoffs. I love football. It's a nice diversion until baseball season.
Another reason I feel good is that I had a really nice workout today as I prepare for my fourth season of "old guy's" baseball.
When I stopped playing competitive baseball at the age of 31, I didn't think I'd ever play again. Then I discovered NABA, the National Adult Baseball Association. It is a well run, highly organized operation that has chapters in all age groups around the country. I play in the Over 35 division and the past three years have been a blast. I still love playing and I'll play as long as I can. We play every Sunday begining in late March/early April and run through August with the playoffs in September.
So that is why my off-season workouts will intensify from here on out. As I get older I have to work harder. The harder I work, the more it hurts. But a good kind of hurt.
Anyway, Opening Day is exactly three months away, April 1st. Which happens to be my 50th birthday. Holy crap I'm getting old. But when I play, I feel young again. And what better way to celebrate my birthday than playing baseball?
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