New Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine has banned beer from the clubhouse this season. Smart move. If you recall, the Bostons collapsed in September last year with reports that some starting pitchers (Beckett, Lackey) were spending time in the clubhouse during games drinking beer and eating fried chicken.
Many teams have banned beer in the clubhouse. I salute them. All teams should ban beer in the clubhouse. There is no need for it there and you don't want players driving drunk. That didn't end up well a few years ago for Cardinals pitcher Josh Hancock who died in a car accident after drinking in the clubhouse following a game.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Every Team...My Faves.
Knowing how difficult it is to reach the Major Leagues and knowing how far short I fell in that quest, I’ve always admired guys who made it. The worst player in the big leagues is an unbelievable baseball player who navigated untold numbers of land mines along the way to make it to the show.
Some guys get washed out in little league. Some guys get told it’s over in high school or summer leagues. Some guys plateau in college or summer leagues. Others get signed to a pro contract, which is difficult in itself, and then peak in rookie ball. Or A ball. Or maybe AA or AAA. Some guys big league careers last one game. Still, I admire every guy that makes it to “The Show” be it for a cup of coffee or a lengthy career. Shoot, I admire any guy who puts on a uniform at any level and gets out there an plays the greatest game ever invented by man.
With all that in mind, I’ve decided to come up with a list of my favorite players from each Major League team. This is just off the top of my head so if I forget a guy from the past, I’ll eventually remember him and add him to the list.
Mind you, being a favorite of mine doesn’t necessarily mean he was a great player. He may have been, or is, a favorite by the way he wore his socks. Or the way he was in interviews. Or maybe he was simply a scrappy player who caught my eye or I liked his batting stance. Some guys I know from broadcasting minor league baseball or playing against them in high school or summer leagues. Whatever. Here is my list of all-time Major League favorites, in no particular order, from every team. For guys who played on multiple teams, I’ll list them on the team I remember them most.
1) Yankees: Bobby Murcer, Thurman Munson, Don Mattingly, Derek Jeter, Ron Guidry, Goose Gossage, Willie Randolph, Mariano Rivera, Tino Martinez, Jorge Posada, Bernie Williams, Graig Nettles, Roy White, Horace Clarke, Sparky Lyle, Lou Piniella, Reggie Jackson, Catfish Hunter.
2) Red Sox: Jason Varitek, Dwight Evans.
3) Orioles: Mark Belanger, Paul Blair, Cal Ripken, Jim Palmer, Gary Roenicke, John Lowenstein.
4) Blue Jays: John Olerud, Rance Mulliniks, Kevin Brown (the catcher not the pitcher).
5) Rays: Travis Harper, Toby Hall, Evan Longoria.
6) White Sox: Harold Baines, Bob Molinaro, Mike Squires, Wilbur Wood, Scott Podsednik.
7) Twins: Harmon Killebrew, Rob Wilfong, Bert Blyleven, Kirby Puckett.
8) Indians: Toby Harrah, Duane Kuiper, Sam McDowell, Jack Heidemann
9) Tigers: Al Kaline, Gates Brown, Bill Freehan, Mark Fidrych, Alan Trammel,
Lou Whitaker, John Hiller, C.J. Nitkowski.
10) Royals: George Brett, Freddie Patek, Paul Splittorff, Frank White, Mike Sweeney.
11) Rangers: Al Oliver, Jim Sundberg, Michael Young, Ian Kinsler.
12) Athletics: Walt Weiss, Sal Bando, Vida Blue, Rollie Fingers, Eric Chavez.
13) Angels: Fred Lynn, Wally Joyner, Frank Tanana.
14) Mariners: Rich Amaral, Ichiro Suzuki, Jaime Moyer.
15) Rockies: Todd Helton, Mark Little, Larry Walker, Carlos Gonzalez, Clint Barmes, Chris Nelson.
16) Giants: Johnnie LeMaster, Chili Davis, Will Clark, Tim Lincecum, Cody Ross, Willie Mays.
17) Dodgers: Steve Garvey, Rick Monday, Mike Scioscia, Orel Hershiser.
18) Diamondbacks: Craig Counsell, Luis Gonzalez, Eric Byrnes.
19) Padres: Tony Gwynn, Randy Jones, Trevor Hoffman.
20) Astros: Nolan Ryan, Terry Puhl, Jose Cruz, Joe Sambito, Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio.
21) Cubs: Ryne Sandberg, Mark Grace, Ferguson Jenkins, Ron Santo, Bob Dernier.
22) Brewers: Paul Molitor, Jim Gantner, Robin Yount, Pete Vukovich.
23) Pirates: Willie Stargell, Mike Easler, Kent Tekulve, Brian Giles, Jack Wilson.
24) Reds: Pete Rose, Barry Larkin, Billy Hatcher, Sean Casey, Jack Billingham,
25) Cardinals: Jim Edmonds, Mike Ramsey, Ozzie Smith.
26) Braves: Phil Niekro, Ralph Garr, Zane Smith, Greg Maddux, Dale Murphy.
27) Marlins: Jeff Conine, Preston Wilson.
28) Phillies: Larry Bowa, Lenny Dykstra, John Kruk, Jim Kaat, Del Unser.
29) Expos/Nationals: Jamey Carroll, Gary Carter, Andre Dawson, Tom Foley
30) Mets: Tom Seaver, Rusty Staub.
Some guys get washed out in little league. Some guys get told it’s over in high school or summer leagues. Some guys plateau in college or summer leagues. Others get signed to a pro contract, which is difficult in itself, and then peak in rookie ball. Or A ball. Or maybe AA or AAA. Some guys big league careers last one game. Still, I admire every guy that makes it to “The Show” be it for a cup of coffee or a lengthy career. Shoot, I admire any guy who puts on a uniform at any level and gets out there an plays the greatest game ever invented by man.
With all that in mind, I’ve decided to come up with a list of my favorite players from each Major League team. This is just off the top of my head so if I forget a guy from the past, I’ll eventually remember him and add him to the list.
Mind you, being a favorite of mine doesn’t necessarily mean he was a great player. He may have been, or is, a favorite by the way he wore his socks. Or the way he was in interviews. Or maybe he was simply a scrappy player who caught my eye or I liked his batting stance. Some guys I know from broadcasting minor league baseball or playing against them in high school or summer leagues. Whatever. Here is my list of all-time Major League favorites, in no particular order, from every team. For guys who played on multiple teams, I’ll list them on the team I remember them most.
1) Yankees: Bobby Murcer, Thurman Munson, Don Mattingly, Derek Jeter, Ron Guidry, Goose Gossage, Willie Randolph, Mariano Rivera, Tino Martinez, Jorge Posada, Bernie Williams, Graig Nettles, Roy White, Horace Clarke, Sparky Lyle, Lou Piniella, Reggie Jackson, Catfish Hunter.
2) Red Sox: Jason Varitek, Dwight Evans.
3) Orioles: Mark Belanger, Paul Blair, Cal Ripken, Jim Palmer, Gary Roenicke, John Lowenstein.
4) Blue Jays: John Olerud, Rance Mulliniks, Kevin Brown (the catcher not the pitcher).
5) Rays: Travis Harper, Toby Hall, Evan Longoria.
6) White Sox: Harold Baines, Bob Molinaro, Mike Squires, Wilbur Wood, Scott Podsednik.
7) Twins: Harmon Killebrew, Rob Wilfong, Bert Blyleven, Kirby Puckett.
8) Indians: Toby Harrah, Duane Kuiper, Sam McDowell, Jack Heidemann
9) Tigers: Al Kaline, Gates Brown, Bill Freehan, Mark Fidrych, Alan Trammel,
Lou Whitaker, John Hiller, C.J. Nitkowski.
10) Royals: George Brett, Freddie Patek, Paul Splittorff, Frank White, Mike Sweeney.
11) Rangers: Al Oliver, Jim Sundberg, Michael Young, Ian Kinsler.
12) Athletics: Walt Weiss, Sal Bando, Vida Blue, Rollie Fingers, Eric Chavez.
13) Angels: Fred Lynn, Wally Joyner, Frank Tanana.
14) Mariners: Rich Amaral, Ichiro Suzuki, Jaime Moyer.
15) Rockies: Todd Helton, Mark Little, Larry Walker, Carlos Gonzalez, Clint Barmes, Chris Nelson.
16) Giants: Johnnie LeMaster, Chili Davis, Will Clark, Tim Lincecum, Cody Ross, Willie Mays.
17) Dodgers: Steve Garvey, Rick Monday, Mike Scioscia, Orel Hershiser.
18) Diamondbacks: Craig Counsell, Luis Gonzalez, Eric Byrnes.
19) Padres: Tony Gwynn, Randy Jones, Trevor Hoffman.
20) Astros: Nolan Ryan, Terry Puhl, Jose Cruz, Joe Sambito, Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio.
21) Cubs: Ryne Sandberg, Mark Grace, Ferguson Jenkins, Ron Santo, Bob Dernier.
22) Brewers: Paul Molitor, Jim Gantner, Robin Yount, Pete Vukovich.
23) Pirates: Willie Stargell, Mike Easler, Kent Tekulve, Brian Giles, Jack Wilson.
24) Reds: Pete Rose, Barry Larkin, Billy Hatcher, Sean Casey, Jack Billingham,
25) Cardinals: Jim Edmonds, Mike Ramsey, Ozzie Smith.
26) Braves: Phil Niekro, Ralph Garr, Zane Smith, Greg Maddux, Dale Murphy.
27) Marlins: Jeff Conine, Preston Wilson.
28) Phillies: Larry Bowa, Lenny Dykstra, John Kruk, Jim Kaat, Del Unser.
29) Expos/Nationals: Jamey Carroll, Gary Carter, Andre Dawson, Tom Foley
30) Mets: Tom Seaver, Rusty Staub.
Gary Patches
Good move by the Mets to announce that they will wear patches on their uniforms to honor Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter who passed away last week from brain cancer. Carter was one of the few likable Mets in the mid-80's. Ok, the only likable Met from those teams.
My only question about the patches, which will be Carter's #8 and a home plate, is how can they afford to buy patches? You know, with the Mets finances and all. Maybe they can get a sponsor like little league teams do.
My only question about the patches, which will be Carter's #8 and a home plate, is how can they afford to buy patches? You know, with the Mets finances and all. Maybe they can get a sponsor like little league teams do.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Posada Overrated?
I stumbled upon a link in my e-mail that invited me to go to a website called bleacherreport.com. I've been there and it can be an entertaining if not always illuminating website.
What caught my attention was a list of the 50 most overrated baseball players of all time, compiled by someone named Shaun McPartlin.
I clicked on number 50 and the recently retired Jorge Posada made the list. Overrated? I don't think so but I read what McPartlin had to say. I have an open mind and he might have some valid points.
He says that Posada was known more for his hitting than catching skills. True. But I would argue he was an underrated defensive catcher. The writer goes on to say that he only threw out 27% of runners attempting to steal. I would counter, other than Andy Pettitte, which Yankee pitcher was good at holding runners on? I would say not many. Mike Mussina maybe?
But here is where I have a beef. He said Posada averaged 15 homers and 60 RBI's per season which he says is "middle of the road."
Those totals seemed very low to me so I went to my favorite website www.baseballreference.com to do some investigating.
In 1995, Posada made his Major League debut. He caught the last inning of one game and didn't make a plate appearance.
The next season, he played a total of 8 games with a whopping total of 14 at-bats. Since baseball-reference includes those seasons as years played, McPartlin included those years in his yearly averages!
In 1997, as a part-time player, splitting his true rookie season with Joe Girardi, Posada played in a mere 60-games.
Since McPartlin counted those three seasons in his "yearly averages" total, of course his numbers will look smaller. His deceptive practice was made to enhance his weak "overrated" argument.
If you take Posada's 8 seasons from 2000-2007, he averaged 20 home runs per season and 89 RBI's per season. That is not a one or two year sample. That is a large sample for a player manning the most physically demanding position on the diamond. Plus, the writer conveniently didn't mention Posada's post-season contributions and playing on four World Series championship teams.
This compilation of the 50 most overrated players was compiled last April. It should have met the delete button immediately.
I didn't look at who the other 49 most overrated players were. I had enough time wasted by reading the inaccurate and misleading garbage McParlin posted on Posada.
Overrated? No. Not at all. He might even end up in the Hall of Fame and deservedly so.
What caught my attention was a list of the 50 most overrated baseball players of all time, compiled by someone named Shaun McPartlin.
I clicked on number 50 and the recently retired Jorge Posada made the list. Overrated? I don't think so but I read what McPartlin had to say. I have an open mind and he might have some valid points.
He says that Posada was known more for his hitting than catching skills. True. But I would argue he was an underrated defensive catcher. The writer goes on to say that he only threw out 27% of runners attempting to steal. I would counter, other than Andy Pettitte, which Yankee pitcher was good at holding runners on? I would say not many. Mike Mussina maybe?
But here is where I have a beef. He said Posada averaged 15 homers and 60 RBI's per season which he says is "middle of the road."
Those totals seemed very low to me so I went to my favorite website www.baseballreference.com to do some investigating.
In 1995, Posada made his Major League debut. He caught the last inning of one game and didn't make a plate appearance.
The next season, he played a total of 8 games with a whopping total of 14 at-bats. Since baseball-reference includes those seasons as years played, McPartlin included those years in his yearly averages!
In 1997, as a part-time player, splitting his true rookie season with Joe Girardi, Posada played in a mere 60-games.
Since McPartlin counted those three seasons in his "yearly averages" total, of course his numbers will look smaller. His deceptive practice was made to enhance his weak "overrated" argument.
If you take Posada's 8 seasons from 2000-2007, he averaged 20 home runs per season and 89 RBI's per season. That is not a one or two year sample. That is a large sample for a player manning the most physically demanding position on the diamond. Plus, the writer conveniently didn't mention Posada's post-season contributions and playing on four World Series championship teams.
This compilation of the 50 most overrated players was compiled last April. It should have met the delete button immediately.
I didn't look at who the other 49 most overrated players were. I had enough time wasted by reading the inaccurate and misleading garbage McParlin posted on Posada.
Overrated? No. Not at all. He might even end up in the Hall of Fame and deservedly so.
Braun Off The Hook
Ryan Braun won his appeal of his 50-game drug suspension for elevated levels of testosterone.
Today he faced the media and one of the things that struck me was his comment, "
I truly believe in my heart and I would bet my life that the substance never entered my body at any point.”
That's a pretty strong statement. Even if he did take performance enhancing drugs and got away with it that is still a bold thing to say.
Personally, I believe Braun. He's a smart guy and his stats have been pretty consistent. His body hasn't grown to massive proportions like Sosa, Bonds and McGwire.
Major League Baseball's reaction was pretty classless too in my estimation. MLB VP Rob Manfred said that he "vehemently disagrees" with the decision of independent arbitrator Shayam Das, a guy who has been doing this for baseball for 11-years.
We've heard players before deny use of performance enhancing drugs like Rafael Palmeiro and a host of others. But Braun's denial was so strong and vigorous and when you add his high caliber reputation, you have to really wonder. How did this happen in the first place.
If Braun is telling the truth, and again I believe he is, then there is a major and dangerous problem in Major League Baseball. If a sample is taken from a player, and disappears for 44 hours as in the case of Braun, who knows who can tamper with it or what the elements, heat or cold, can do to it.
In the end I believe justice prevailed and Manfred can cry all he wants. If the suspension was upheld and Braun was truly innocent, that would have been a tragedy. As it stands now, to all players in the big leagues and minor leagues...beware.
Today he faced the media and one of the things that struck me was his comment, "
I truly believe in my heart and I would bet my life that the substance never entered my body at any point.”
That's a pretty strong statement. Even if he did take performance enhancing drugs and got away with it that is still a bold thing to say.
Personally, I believe Braun. He's a smart guy and his stats have been pretty consistent. His body hasn't grown to massive proportions like Sosa, Bonds and McGwire.
Major League Baseball's reaction was pretty classless too in my estimation. MLB VP Rob Manfred said that he "vehemently disagrees" with the decision of independent arbitrator Shayam Das, a guy who has been doing this for baseball for 11-years.
We've heard players before deny use of performance enhancing drugs like Rafael Palmeiro and a host of others. But Braun's denial was so strong and vigorous and when you add his high caliber reputation, you have to really wonder. How did this happen in the first place.
If Braun is telling the truth, and again I believe he is, then there is a major and dangerous problem in Major League Baseball. If a sample is taken from a player, and disappears for 44 hours as in the case of Braun, who knows who can tamper with it or what the elements, heat or cold, can do to it.
In the end I believe justice prevailed and Manfred can cry all he wants. If the suspension was upheld and Braun was truly innocent, that would have been a tragedy. As it stands now, to all players in the big leagues and minor leagues...beware.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Sell or Hold?
I mentioned a couple of weeks ago to Casey Bloyer that I had a Thurman Munson autograph on a 1976 Baltimore Orioles program. I wondered how much it was worth since Casey used to be in the seedy sports memorabilia business.
His jaw dropped.
"You have a Thurman Munson autograph?"
"Yeah."
"What kind of condition?"
"Perfect condition."
"Holy crap, that is worth about 2-grand."
I thought it might be worth about $50 so I was thrilled Casey said it was worth around $2,000. One reason it is worth so much is because it is rare. The Yankees first team captain since Lou Gehrig died tragically in a plane crash on August 2, 1979. One of the saddest days of my life. He didn't sign many autographs since this was before the big memorabilia craze.
I asked the Caseman to help me sell it and he refused.
"You can't sell that," he pleaded with me.
Here's the story behind the autograph.
My mom, grandpa and me took a trip to Baltimore to see the Yankees face the Orioles on July 26th, 27th and 28th at Memorial Stadium in 1976. We happened to stay in the same hotel as the Yankees, The Lord Baltimore Hotel.
The Yanks, despite having a big lead on the O's in the AL East that season, lost all three games. This is when Baltimore actually had a team.
After the loss on July 26th, I was in the hotel lobby, around midnight, just looking around. I was reading the game program that had Paul Blair on the cover. Great centerfielder and a future Yankee. Anyway, Thurman Munson came walking by on his way towards the elevators. I approached him with trepidation. This was one of my heroes, the Yankees catcher! I was apprehensive and intimidated.
I said, "Hi Thurman, can I please have an autograph?"
He didn't say anything. He took the program and signed his name. Clearly and legibly.
I said thanks and he replied, "You're welcome."
I shook his hand and he disappeared into the elevator. I was thrilled. I put the program in plastic when I got home and it has been in the plastic ever since.
To me, the big memory is just meeting Munson, or as my friends and I used to call him, "Thurm the Germ...poison to the other team." The fact that I have a program with his signature on it is nice but if I can get $2,000 for it well..."
So, question time. Should I sell the program? Should I keep it as Casey says? Or, should I hold onto it for a few more years, let the value appreciated and then sell it for more money as my radio comrade Andy Cornell says? What should I do?
His jaw dropped.
"You have a Thurman Munson autograph?"
"Yeah."
"What kind of condition?"
"Perfect condition."
"Holy crap, that is worth about 2-grand."
I thought it might be worth about $50 so I was thrilled Casey said it was worth around $2,000. One reason it is worth so much is because it is rare. The Yankees first team captain since Lou Gehrig died tragically in a plane crash on August 2, 1979. One of the saddest days of my life. He didn't sign many autographs since this was before the big memorabilia craze.
I asked the Caseman to help me sell it and he refused.
"You can't sell that," he pleaded with me.
Here's the story behind the autograph.
My mom, grandpa and me took a trip to Baltimore to see the Yankees face the Orioles on July 26th, 27th and 28th at Memorial Stadium in 1976. We happened to stay in the same hotel as the Yankees, The Lord Baltimore Hotel.
The Yanks, despite having a big lead on the O's in the AL East that season, lost all three games. This is when Baltimore actually had a team.
After the loss on July 26th, I was in the hotel lobby, around midnight, just looking around. I was reading the game program that had Paul Blair on the cover. Great centerfielder and a future Yankee. Anyway, Thurman Munson came walking by on his way towards the elevators. I approached him with trepidation. This was one of my heroes, the Yankees catcher! I was apprehensive and intimidated.
I said, "Hi Thurman, can I please have an autograph?"
He didn't say anything. He took the program and signed his name. Clearly and legibly.
I said thanks and he replied, "You're welcome."
I shook his hand and he disappeared into the elevator. I was thrilled. I put the program in plastic when I got home and it has been in the plastic ever since.
To me, the big memory is just meeting Munson, or as my friends and I used to call him, "Thurm the Germ...poison to the other team." The fact that I have a program with his signature on it is nice but if I can get $2,000 for it well..."
So, question time. Should I sell the program? Should I keep it as Casey says? Or, should I hold onto it for a few more years, let the value appreciated and then sell it for more money as my radio comrade Andy Cornell says? What should I do?
No Mo Post Game Pies!
Thank goodness and good riddance. A.J. Burnett is no longer a Yankee. The Pirates traded a couple of warm bodies, I mean "prospects," to New York for the mercurial right-hander.
How is it a guy with such good stuff and be so consistently inconsistent. Burnett would look like Christy Mathewson for 3 innings and then look like Bill Thornton the next inning? Bill Thornton being a high school and summer league teammate and life long friend who I just felt like throwing under the bus right now for some reason. Actually, Billy could have pitched better than A.J. at times the past two seasons.
I have the reason. The guy is unfocused. It seemed to me that Burnett was more concerned with slamming guys in the face with a post game pie for a walk-off win or acquiring more tattoos than winning ballgames. That stuff is great...when you are winning 18 games with an ERA around three instead of close to six.
The Pirates have had 19 consecutive losing seasons. It isn't as if they've accomplished this dubious record by being smart.
A.J. Burnett isn't going to help the Pirates long term. Oh, he'll eat innings and serve up plenty of souvenirs to the patrons in the right and left field seats but if the Pirates ever get good again, and that's a big if with their incompetent owner Bob Nutting, Burnett will be long gone.
As for Nutting, he doesn't want to win. Winning teams cost money and he makes a fistful of dollars by losing and pocketing luxury tax money from the Yankees and Red Sox and teams of that ilk. You know, winning teams.
So, Pittsburgh, the giant roar you hear coming from the east are Yankee fans yelling, "Thank You Bucs for taking that loser Burnett off our hands."
I pull for the Pirates and hope they do well but I'm glad I'm not a full-blooded Pirates fan. That would make for a pretty tough life.
How is it a guy with such good stuff and be so consistently inconsistent. Burnett would look like Christy Mathewson for 3 innings and then look like Bill Thornton the next inning? Bill Thornton being a high school and summer league teammate and life long friend who I just felt like throwing under the bus right now for some reason. Actually, Billy could have pitched better than A.J. at times the past two seasons.
I have the reason. The guy is unfocused. It seemed to me that Burnett was more concerned with slamming guys in the face with a post game pie for a walk-off win or acquiring more tattoos than winning ballgames. That stuff is great...when you are winning 18 games with an ERA around three instead of close to six.
The Pirates have had 19 consecutive losing seasons. It isn't as if they've accomplished this dubious record by being smart.
A.J. Burnett isn't going to help the Pirates long term. Oh, he'll eat innings and serve up plenty of souvenirs to the patrons in the right and left field seats but if the Pirates ever get good again, and that's a big if with their incompetent owner Bob Nutting, Burnett will be long gone.
As for Nutting, he doesn't want to win. Winning teams cost money and he makes a fistful of dollars by losing and pocketing luxury tax money from the Yankees and Red Sox and teams of that ilk. You know, winning teams.
So, Pittsburgh, the giant roar you hear coming from the east are Yankee fans yelling, "Thank You Bucs for taking that loser Burnett off our hands."
I pull for the Pirates and hope they do well but I'm glad I'm not a full-blooded Pirates fan. That would make for a pretty tough life.
Stupidball?
Maybe they make another movie about Athletics genius Billy Beane they will call it Stupidball.
How else do you explain their interest in Manny Ramirez who has said that he signed with Oakland and will report to spring training later this week.
Ramirez is a washed up bum and a clubhouse cancer. He is the last person you want around a young group of AAA players...check that, young group of Major League players.
Why has Billy Beane turned so idiotic?
If I was a big league general manager, and I should be, here is how I would have handled any thought about signing Manny Ramirez.
Scout: "Hey BR, Manny Ramirez is available and we can get him cheap. What do you think?"
BR: "No. And get out of here."
Stupid move by Oakland. Incredibly stupid. Stupid, stupid and more stupid. What is going on Billy Beane?
How else do you explain their interest in Manny Ramirez who has said that he signed with Oakland and will report to spring training later this week.
Ramirez is a washed up bum and a clubhouse cancer. He is the last person you want around a young group of AAA players...check that, young group of Major League players.
Why has Billy Beane turned so idiotic?
If I was a big league general manager, and I should be, here is how I would have handled any thought about signing Manny Ramirez.
Scout: "Hey BR, Manny Ramirez is available and we can get him cheap. What do you think?"
BR: "No. And get out of here."
Stupid move by Oakland. Incredibly stupid. Stupid, stupid and more stupid. What is going on Billy Beane?
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Changing History
When I heard that the Houston Astros were going to wear throwback Colt 45 uniforms for a couple of games in April to celebrate their 50th season in Major League Baseball, I was excited.
For those who may not be aware, the Astros were known as the Colt 45's in their first three seasons, 1962-64. They became known as the Astros when they moved into the Astrodome in 1965.
However, Major League Baseball is not entirely on board with the Astros throwback Colt 45 uniforms. They won't let Houston wear them if they have the pistol, the Colt 45, on the front of the uniform. The uniform has to be altered with the gun missing before they will grant permission for Houston to wear them. Talk about political correctness gone too far.
Are they freaking serious? Why bother with the throwback uniform if you don't wear the actual throwback uniform? Are people that sensitive that they have to wear a fraudulent uniform?
Guns are everywhere. On TV, in video games and in real life. If the Astros wear a genuine Colt 45's uniform, will people all of a sudden go out, buy guns and then start shooting everyone they see?
The Houston Colt 45's are part of baseball history. The Astros want to pay homage to their original name. Let them wear their original uniform and stop messing with history. Now that I think about it, I'm surprised that the pussycats at Major League Baseball don't make Houston drop the 45's part. Just go with Colts and make people think the Astros originally were named after a horse.
For those who may not be aware, the Astros were known as the Colt 45's in their first three seasons, 1962-64. They became known as the Astros when they moved into the Astrodome in 1965.
However, Major League Baseball is not entirely on board with the Astros throwback Colt 45 uniforms. They won't let Houston wear them if they have the pistol, the Colt 45, on the front of the uniform. The uniform has to be altered with the gun missing before they will grant permission for Houston to wear them. Talk about political correctness gone too far.
Are they freaking serious? Why bother with the throwback uniform if you don't wear the actual throwback uniform? Are people that sensitive that they have to wear a fraudulent uniform?
Guns are everywhere. On TV, in video games and in real life. If the Astros wear a genuine Colt 45's uniform, will people all of a sudden go out, buy guns and then start shooting everyone they see?
The Houston Colt 45's are part of baseball history. The Astros want to pay homage to their original name. Let them wear their original uniform and stop messing with history. Now that I think about it, I'm surprised that the pussycats at Major League Baseball don't make Houston drop the 45's part. Just go with Colts and make people think the Astros originally were named after a horse.
First Game of the Year
It's a Saturday night and I'm pumped.
I'm watching my first game of the year.
Prairie View University is taking on Texas Southern University in the Urban Invitational from Minute Maid Park in Houston.
The game is being broadcast on MLB Networks.
Nice!
Of course, some people (Andy Cornell), might say, "Watching college baseball on a Saturday night? That's pathetic."
I'm watching my first game of the year.
Prairie View University is taking on Texas Southern University in the Urban Invitational from Minute Maid Park in Houston.
The game is being broadcast on MLB Networks.
Nice!
Of course, some people (Andy Cornell), might say, "Watching college baseball on a Saturday night? That's pathetic."
Thursday, February 16, 2012
R.I.P. Kid
Very sad that Gary Carter passed away from brain cancer at the way too young age of 57.
He was diagnosed last May when four tumors were discovered. He fought the brave.
Of all the 1986 Mets, Carter was one of the few likeable ones. He'll always be remembered for keeping the Mets alive in Game 6 of the World Series when they were down 5-3 with two outs in the 10th only to rally and win 6-5 then take Game 7 two night's later. Carter's single sparked the rally.
People will also remember his Opening Day walk off homer in his first game as a Met in 1985 against the Cardinals at Shea Stadium.
The Expos and Mets catcher was one of the most enthusiastic players I've ever seen and I surmise that every day he was in a baseball uniform was the greatest day of his life other than being with his family.
The Kid was a Hall of Famer both on and off the field and baseball will miss him.
He was diagnosed last May when four tumors were discovered. He fought the brave.
Of all the 1986 Mets, Carter was one of the few likeable ones. He'll always be remembered for keeping the Mets alive in Game 6 of the World Series when they were down 5-3 with two outs in the 10th only to rally and win 6-5 then take Game 7 two night's later. Carter's single sparked the rally.
People will also remember his Opening Day walk off homer in his first game as a Met in 1985 against the Cardinals at Shea Stadium.
The Expos and Mets catcher was one of the most enthusiastic players I've ever seen and I surmise that every day he was in a baseball uniform was the greatest day of his life other than being with his family.
The Kid was a Hall of Famer both on and off the field and baseball will miss him.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Nutritional System Update
Last week I wrote about a nutritional system I was going to try out. It was supposed to make me lose weight, gain strength and rid my body of fat cells and toxins and all sorts of bad stuff.
I began the program on Saturday. I've followed the plan to a T. When I weighed myself before I started the program, I was 203 pounds. Not good but not hideous either. I want to get to 180-185 pounds, my baseball playing weight in college.
After three days, I lost 9 pounds by just following the system and working out. I didn't work out yesterday and this morning I weighed myself and lost 2 more pounds for a total of 11 pounds lost in 4 days.
I'll be on the program for another week and then a maintenance program thereafter. Why eat and be healthy for a week or two and then go back to being a toxic, bloated slug? I want to get to my best weight and stay that way.
I was skeptical at first when Peter Greenlaw and his son Drew introduced me to this. But I like to keep an open mind. Well, with 11 pounds of toxic fat gone, I feel great and it is only the beginning.
Looking forward to this weekend. I plan on hitting for the first time this spring and doing more baseball specific training. Being in great shape will certainly help.
I began the program on Saturday. I've followed the plan to a T. When I weighed myself before I started the program, I was 203 pounds. Not good but not hideous either. I want to get to 180-185 pounds, my baseball playing weight in college.
After three days, I lost 9 pounds by just following the system and working out. I didn't work out yesterday and this morning I weighed myself and lost 2 more pounds for a total of 11 pounds lost in 4 days.
I'll be on the program for another week and then a maintenance program thereafter. Why eat and be healthy for a week or two and then go back to being a toxic, bloated slug? I want to get to my best weight and stay that way.
I was skeptical at first when Peter Greenlaw and his son Drew introduced me to this. But I like to keep an open mind. Well, with 11 pounds of toxic fat gone, I feel great and it is only the beginning.
Looking forward to this weekend. I plan on hitting for the first time this spring and doing more baseball specific training. Being in great shape will certainly help.
The Baseball Equivalent?
Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow energized and thrilled Denver fans and fans of football everywhere with his 2011 season. He proved a lot of people wrong and still there are questions about him.
Jeremy Lin of the Knicks is fast becoming the basketball version of Tebow with his dramatic performances and lifting a boring, dull and dysfunctional franchise.
Lin even says that he is inspired by Tebow.
So who will be the next guy in baseball that will set the sport on it's ears and dominated the headlines.
Almost impossible to say. These things seem to just happen with little, if any, planning.
When I think of baseball players in the past to grab the sport by storm in my lifetime, immediately Mark Fidrych comes to mind in 1976. Vida Blue in 1971. Fernando Valenzuela in 1981. Hideo Nomo for a while too. Notice they were all pitchers.
It would be nice if baseball has a Tebow/Lin type breakthrough player this season. Especially if he's with the Rockies so I can see him play in person all the time!
Jeremy Lin of the Knicks is fast becoming the basketball version of Tebow with his dramatic performances and lifting a boring, dull and dysfunctional franchise.
Lin even says that he is inspired by Tebow.
So who will be the next guy in baseball that will set the sport on it's ears and dominated the headlines.
Almost impossible to say. These things seem to just happen with little, if any, planning.
When I think of baseball players in the past to grab the sport by storm in my lifetime, immediately Mark Fidrych comes to mind in 1976. Vida Blue in 1971. Fernando Valenzuela in 1981. Hideo Nomo for a while too. Notice they were all pitchers.
It would be nice if baseball has a Tebow/Lin type breakthrough player this season. Especially if he's with the Rockies so I can see him play in person all the time!
Rays Extend The Skip
Even though I'm a Yankees fan, I really like and admire Rays Manager Joe Maddon. I love his unconventional approach and his offbeat personality.
The Rays extended his contract for three more years and the greatest manager in Tampa Bay history deserves it. I must note that there are really no other candidates for the greatest manager in Tampa Bay history tag.
Anyway, for some reason my radio co-host, Casey Bloyer, hates Joe Maddon. I don't know why and neither does Casey. He just can't stand him.
Put it this way. If the Yankees fired Joe Girardi and hired Maddon I wouldn't be upset at all. The job he did last year was incredible. He kept the team motivated and focused even when it looked like they had no shot to get into the post-season. Well, thanks to a late season surge and the Red Sox epic collapse, the Rays made it to October. Maddon totally deserved his AL Manager of the Year Award and with him at the helm, locked in for three more years, the Rays will be in the mix each season. This despite a paltry payroll and playing in a crappy stadium with few fans and free agents nowhere to be found.
The Rays extended his contract for three more years and the greatest manager in Tampa Bay history deserves it. I must note that there are really no other candidates for the greatest manager in Tampa Bay history tag.
Anyway, for some reason my radio co-host, Casey Bloyer, hates Joe Maddon. I don't know why and neither does Casey. He just can't stand him.
Put it this way. If the Yankees fired Joe Girardi and hired Maddon I wouldn't be upset at all. The job he did last year was incredible. He kept the team motivated and focused even when it looked like they had no shot to get into the post-season. Well, thanks to a late season surge and the Red Sox epic collapse, the Rays made it to October. Maddon totally deserved his AL Manager of the Year Award and with him at the helm, locked in for three more years, the Rays will be in the mix each season. This despite a paltry payroll and playing in a crappy stadium with few fans and free agents nowhere to be found.
Mr. 8 Batting Titles
One of my favorite players ever, Tony Gwynn, had a lifetime average of .338 and collected 8 batting titles. Most people know that.
Did you know that in his 20 year career, he never hit below .309? Not once. That to me is insane. An off year for Gwynn was .309? Crazy.
Gwynn was on my mind since he had surgery yesterday to remove a malignant tumor inside his right cheek, probably caused by years of using chewing tobacco. They had to take a nerve from his shoulder and transplant it into his cheek after they had to cut through a nerve to get to the tumor. Very complex surgery and who knows what is next for the former Padre and now San Diego State baseball coach.
Gwynn's wife reports that the doctors said they removed all of the cancer and that Tony was in a good mood after the surgery.
I pray that he comes out of this healthy and that anyone who even considers using tobacco think of Tony Gwynn.
I miss watching him hit.
Did you know that in his 20 year career, he never hit below .309? Not once. That to me is insane. An off year for Gwynn was .309? Crazy.
Gwynn was on my mind since he had surgery yesterday to remove a malignant tumor inside his right cheek, probably caused by years of using chewing tobacco. They had to take a nerve from his shoulder and transplant it into his cheek after they had to cut through a nerve to get to the tumor. Very complex surgery and who knows what is next for the former Padre and now San Diego State baseball coach.
Gwynn's wife reports that the doctors said they removed all of the cancer and that Tony was in a good mood after the surgery.
I pray that he comes out of this healthy and that anyone who even considers using tobacco think of Tony Gwynn.
I miss watching him hit.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
The Captain
Have you ever wondered why Derek Jeter is so great? Here's a clue. He's already at spring training in Florida, well ahead of February 25th when position players are required to report. And he's been the first Yankee in camp his entire career. Mystery solved.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Crazy
The Rangers signed outfielder Nelson Cruz to a 2-year, 16-million dollar contract. For you mathematics wizards out there, that works out to 8-million per season.
Here is how crazy baseball salaries have become.
My first thought upon hearing the Cruz news? That's it?
Here is how crazy baseball salaries have become.
My first thought upon hearing the Cruz news? That's it?
Harden Hurting
If Rich Harden wasn't the victim of arm trouble throughout his career, we would be talking about him as one of the better pitchers this past decade. Even with many arm ailments he has more strikeouts to innings pitched and in his career (949 K's, 928 IP). He's also served up just 781 hits while compiling a 59-38 record with a 3.76 ERA. Imagine if he didn't have arm trouble.
Some guys are simply durable and some aren't. Harden falls into the latter category.
I could never understand why the Athletics, Cubs and Rangers didn't move him into the bullpen to limit his innings. Could Harden have stayed healthier as a reliever? I don't know but it might have been something that should have been explored. Maybe Harden was against such a move. I don't know.
But what is known is that to beat Harden, just get his pitch count up and get him out of the game in the fifth or sixth inning. He hasn't thrown a complete game in six years.
Right now that's all a moot point. Harden will undergo season ending surgery in his right shoulder. And the season hasn't even started yet. Good move though. He's been pitching with a bum shoulder for the past four years and he might as well get it taken care of now in hopes of resuming his career next year. He's only 30 years old. If all goes well he could have several more good years left. Hopefully that's the case.
Some guys are simply durable and some aren't. Harden falls into the latter category.
I could never understand why the Athletics, Cubs and Rangers didn't move him into the bullpen to limit his innings. Could Harden have stayed healthier as a reliever? I don't know but it might have been something that should have been explored. Maybe Harden was against such a move. I don't know.
But what is known is that to beat Harden, just get his pitch count up and get him out of the game in the fifth or sixth inning. He hasn't thrown a complete game in six years.
Right now that's all a moot point. Harden will undergo season ending surgery in his right shoulder. And the season hasn't even started yet. Good move though. He's been pitching with a bum shoulder for the past four years and he might as well get it taken care of now in hopes of resuming his career next year. He's only 30 years old. If all goes well he could have several more good years left. Hopefully that's the case.
Nutritional System
I started a new nutrition program today. The plan for me is too be healthier, stronger and faster for old guy's baseball. The season starts in 7-weeks and I've been working out and getting back in shape. This cleansing stuff is supposed to help me lose toxins, weight and make me stronger and more flexible. Sign me up.
Two guys, Peter Greenlaw and his son Drew, met me at the radio station the other day, to explain how this all works. The meeting lasted an hour and a half so I won't go into too many details here. But if it works for me, they want me to endorse it on the air. They also said if I follow the program it will work and I will be astounded at the results.
I'm anxious to see how it goes. I'm very optimistic and I'll post updates on my progress on this blog.
Two guys, Peter Greenlaw and his son Drew, met me at the radio station the other day, to explain how this all works. The meeting lasted an hour and a half so I won't go into too many details here. But if it works for me, they want me to endorse it on the air. They also said if I follow the program it will work and I will be astounded at the results.
I'm anxious to see how it goes. I'm very optimistic and I'll post updates on my progress on this blog.
Mustain
When I last thought much about Mitch Mustain was in late November of 2010. He was quarterbacking Southern Cal against Notre Dame. He was backing up the injured Matt Barkley and was at the end of his eligibility rope.
One of the most sought after quarterbacking recruits in the country, Mustain began his career, in 2006 at Arkansas. He led the Razorbacks to an 8-0 record in his starts as a freshman. However, because he had a trio of future NFL running backs, Darren McFadden, Felix Jones and Peyton Hillis, the offense didn't revolve around the freshman QB. This apparently annoyed Mustain's mom and he eventually had a falling out with Arkansas Head Coach Houston Nutt and transferred to Southern Cal. I'm sure they had visions of Heisman Trophies and personal glory dancing in their heads. However, the Trojans had Mark Sanchez and then Barkley and Mustain rotted on the bench the rest of his career, except for the previously mentioned Notre Dame game, which he lost.
His pro football career went nowhere.
So why do I mention Mustain here?
The Chicago White Sox have signed the 23-year old to a minor league contract after he threw 90-mph in a tryout. He hasn't played baseball in eight years.
This is a no-lose situation for the White Sox. If he flames out, so what. They didn't lose much. If he increases his velocity, which is likely since his future workouts will be baseball specific, they might have a sleeper on his hands. And it isn't as if he was idle for eight years. He was playing college football. Or at least he was on a team.
For some reason I really hope it works out for Mustain and I think it very well could. He's got another shot and I hope he makes the best of it since football didn't pan out as was expected.
One of the most sought after quarterbacking recruits in the country, Mustain began his career, in 2006 at Arkansas. He led the Razorbacks to an 8-0 record in his starts as a freshman. However, because he had a trio of future NFL running backs, Darren McFadden, Felix Jones and Peyton Hillis, the offense didn't revolve around the freshman QB. This apparently annoyed Mustain's mom and he eventually had a falling out with Arkansas Head Coach Houston Nutt and transferred to Southern Cal. I'm sure they had visions of Heisman Trophies and personal glory dancing in their heads. However, the Trojans had Mark Sanchez and then Barkley and Mustain rotted on the bench the rest of his career, except for the previously mentioned Notre Dame game, which he lost.
His pro football career went nowhere.
So why do I mention Mustain here?
The Chicago White Sox have signed the 23-year old to a minor league contract after he threw 90-mph in a tryout. He hasn't played baseball in eight years.
This is a no-lose situation for the White Sox. If he flames out, so what. They didn't lose much. If he increases his velocity, which is likely since his future workouts will be baseball specific, they might have a sleeper on his hands. And it isn't as if he was idle for eight years. He was playing college football. Or at least he was on a team.
For some reason I really hope it works out for Mustain and I think it very well could. He's got another shot and I hope he makes the best of it since football didn't pan out as was expected.
Fraud Can
Dennis "Oil Can" Boyd is peddling a new book in which he claims he used cocaine 2/3rds of the time he pitched for the Red Sox in the mid-80s.
Okay, he wasn't the only one using cocaine back then.
While it probably was a main reason for his career ending prematurely, he blames another reason. His race. In the book he says because he is black and outspoken he didn't get the empathy and sympathy that others who had cocaine issues did.
Nobody forced him to use cocaine. And while he was usually a pretty good quote, outspoken if you will, he was also, by many indications, a crappy teammate. When you tick people off all the time and you are unreliable, as soon as you can't pitch anymore then you will be shown the door. It happens in baseball and all walks of life.
John is a great salesman but he's a jerk. Well, he'll be employed until the day his sales slack off. Then he gets cut loose.
Oil Can can pitch even though he's a pain in the ass. Well, he can't pitch anymore? Goodbye Oil Can and don't let the door hit you on the way out. That's the way it works.
Also, by pitching all those games under the influence of cocaine, he ripped off everyone who bought a ticket to see him play.
I have no interest in reading a book on Oil Can Boyd.
Okay, he wasn't the only one using cocaine back then.
While it probably was a main reason for his career ending prematurely, he blames another reason. His race. In the book he says because he is black and outspoken he didn't get the empathy and sympathy that others who had cocaine issues did.
Nobody forced him to use cocaine. And while he was usually a pretty good quote, outspoken if you will, he was also, by many indications, a crappy teammate. When you tick people off all the time and you are unreliable, as soon as you can't pitch anymore then you will be shown the door. It happens in baseball and all walks of life.
John is a great salesman but he's a jerk. Well, he'll be employed until the day his sales slack off. Then he gets cut loose.
Oil Can can pitch even though he's a pain in the ass. Well, he can't pitch anymore? Goodbye Oil Can and don't let the door hit you on the way out. That's the way it works.
Also, by pitching all those games under the influence of cocaine, he ripped off everyone who bought a ticket to see him play.
I have no interest in reading a book on Oil Can Boyd.
Russell Branyan
When I saw the Yankees signed veteran third baseman/first baseman Russell Branyan to a minor league contract I thought two things.
Good. He's killed the Yankees in the past. Looking up his stats I saw that he's hit 8 home runs in the new Yankee Stadium in just 47 at-bats.
The second thing I thought of was Opening Day 2005. I was at Miller Park in Milwaukee for the Brewers home opener and Branyan hit not one but two of the longest home runs I've ever seen. Both were off Pirates righthander Kip Wells and both hit high off the centerfield video board. Had they not been impeded in flight it would have been more than 1,000 feet worth of homers.
Branyan has unreal power and although he's 36, he can't be as bad as he was last year when he hit just 5 homers with 14 RBI's with the Diamondbacks and Angels. Perhaps that was just a bad year. Maybe it was age catching up with him. But the previous two seasons, in 2009 and 2010 he belted 31 and 25 homers so I don't think he's lost it that quickly. We'll see but I think a pretty good pickup for the Yankees.
Good. He's killed the Yankees in the past. Looking up his stats I saw that he's hit 8 home runs in the new Yankee Stadium in just 47 at-bats.
The second thing I thought of was Opening Day 2005. I was at Miller Park in Milwaukee for the Brewers home opener and Branyan hit not one but two of the longest home runs I've ever seen. Both were off Pirates righthander Kip Wells and both hit high off the centerfield video board. Had they not been impeded in flight it would have been more than 1,000 feet worth of homers.
Branyan has unreal power and although he's 36, he can't be as bad as he was last year when he hit just 5 homers with 14 RBI's with the Diamondbacks and Angels. Perhaps that was just a bad year. Maybe it was age catching up with him. But the previous two seasons, in 2009 and 2010 he belted 31 and 25 homers so I don't think he's lost it that quickly. We'll see but I think a pretty good pickup for the Yankees.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Black History Month
February is Black History Month. I tease my friend Justin Adams that the reason Black History Month is in February is because it is the shortest month. He laughs since he knows that it is intended as a joke. But couldn't Black History Month been in May? Or September? Or any month that has 30 or 31 days? Why shortchange Black History Month?
Anyway, I digress.
I was wondering, since there have been so many great black baseball players over the years, if I had to pick one to sit down and have dinner with, just one player, whom would it be?
I saw Willie Mays play towards the end of his career. I saw Hank Aaron. I've seen all the greats who played from 1970 on. So I wouldn't want to sit down with any of those players. Well I would but again, I can only pick one.
The guy I would pick? The great Satchel Paige without question, just edging out Jackie Robinson.
I would just love to hear Satchel tell stories, or tall tales, and I would pick his brain. The reason I would choose Paige as a dinner companion is because he may very well be the greatest pitcher who ever lived. There are estimates that he may have won as many as 500 games. Or 600. He barnstormed all across the country. He played in the Negro Leagues, the Mexican League, the Major Leagues towards the end. If there was a game to be played, he was there.
The stories, such as Paige walking the bases loaded, then calling in his fielders followed by striking out the side are plentiful and wonderful. Did that actually happen?
There is so much mystery surrounding Paige and I find him to be perhaps the most fascinating player in baseball history. I'm totally intrigued by his career, both on the field and off.
He is the oldest player in Major League history having pitched three innings for the Kansas City Athletics in 1965 when he was 58. Or 59. Who knows. He didn't care. He said, "Age is mind over matter. If you don't mind, it don't matter."
Of course I would also talk to him about his famous rules for staying young. Here they are:
1."Avoid fried meats which angry up the blood."
2."If your stomach disputes you, lie down and pacify it with cool thoughts."
3."Keep the juices flowing by jangling around gently as you move."
4."Go very light on the vices, such as carrying on in society—the social ramble ain't restful."
5."Avoid running at all times."
6."And don't look back—something might be gaining on you."
How classic was Satchel Paige? To me Black History Month starts with him.
Anyway, I digress.
I was wondering, since there have been so many great black baseball players over the years, if I had to pick one to sit down and have dinner with, just one player, whom would it be?
I saw Willie Mays play towards the end of his career. I saw Hank Aaron. I've seen all the greats who played from 1970 on. So I wouldn't want to sit down with any of those players. Well I would but again, I can only pick one.
The guy I would pick? The great Satchel Paige without question, just edging out Jackie Robinson.
I would just love to hear Satchel tell stories, or tall tales, and I would pick his brain. The reason I would choose Paige as a dinner companion is because he may very well be the greatest pitcher who ever lived. There are estimates that he may have won as many as 500 games. Or 600. He barnstormed all across the country. He played in the Negro Leagues, the Mexican League, the Major Leagues towards the end. If there was a game to be played, he was there.
The stories, such as Paige walking the bases loaded, then calling in his fielders followed by striking out the side are plentiful and wonderful. Did that actually happen?
There is so much mystery surrounding Paige and I find him to be perhaps the most fascinating player in baseball history. I'm totally intrigued by his career, both on the field and off.
He is the oldest player in Major League history having pitched three innings for the Kansas City Athletics in 1965 when he was 58. Or 59. Who knows. He didn't care. He said, "Age is mind over matter. If you don't mind, it don't matter."
Of course I would also talk to him about his famous rules for staying young. Here they are:
1."Avoid fried meats which angry up the blood."
2."If your stomach disputes you, lie down and pacify it with cool thoughts."
3."Keep the juices flowing by jangling around gently as you move."
4."Go very light on the vices, such as carrying on in society—the social ramble ain't restful."
5."Avoid running at all times."
6."And don't look back—something might be gaining on you."
How classic was Satchel Paige? To me Black History Month starts with him.
Jose's Dreads
New Marlins shortstop Jose Reyes had his dreadlocks cut off on live TV. This to comply with the Marlins dress code. Good for the Marlins. They apparently want their players to look like ballplayers.
Someone actually bought the cut dreadlocks for $10,200. My initial thought was, "Eww, that's disgusting."
After learning that the money will benefit the Make-A-Wish foundation of Southern Florida, I thought, "Eww, that's disgusting...but great!"
Everyone wins. Make-A-Wish gets some money and Reyes now will look like a ballplayer. Well almost everyone wins. Someone actually has possession of Reyes' dreadlocks.
Someone actually bought the cut dreadlocks for $10,200. My initial thought was, "Eww, that's disgusting."
After learning that the money will benefit the Make-A-Wish foundation of Southern Florida, I thought, "Eww, that's disgusting...but great!"
Everyone wins. Make-A-Wish gets some money and Reyes now will look like a ballplayer. Well almost everyone wins. Someone actually has possession of Reyes' dreadlocks.
A Very Enjoyable Lunch
Had a really nice lunch in downtown Denver yesterday with Twins scout and good friend Ed "Hendu" Henderson and Bruce Hellerstein, the owner/proprietor of B's Ballpark Museum.
We are going to broadcast our morning show, Kelley & Company, at Bruce's museum on Opening Day, April 9th. The museum is located on Blake Street and you can see the front of Coors Field from the establishment.
Bruce has one of the greatest individual collections of baseball and ballpark memorabilia in the world. The museum is something I would urge any baseball fan to visit. Unfortunately, and somewhat surprisingly, no Rockies have ever been there. It's only about 50-yards from the entrance of the stadium. Just another example of the modern day player not having much of an interest in the great history of the sport that had made them wealthy beyond belief.
In 2007, the Negro League museum had a gigantic trailer parked outside of Coors Field for a week. It was a mobile version of the museum. I went twice and it was a terrific look at the Negro Leagues, which holds an important place in baseball history and American history. Bruce told us that not one Rockies player stopped by to take a look. To Bruce, Ed and myself, that was shameful.
At lunch, Bruce was saying that while he enjoyed the Super Bowl, it doesn't give him the same thrill that baseball does. Ed and I are in total agreement.
Baseball is still the greatest game ever and some of the things we discussed backed that up.
We talked about football and basketball versus baseball. If you were to look at a football or basketball game from 60 years ago, it's a totally different game. If you were to go back in time and watch a baseball game from 1912...same game.
In baseball, you don't have to be a genetic freak to play. You can be the size of Freddie Patek, Frank Howard or anywhere in between. Size doesn't preclude anyone from playing. If you are 5'7 and want to play football or basketball, well, good luck. You won't get many opportunities, if any.
The statistics are rich and meaningful in baseball. Babe Ruth, 714 home runs. Joe DiMaggio 56-game hitting streak. Cy Young, 511 wins. Ted Williams .406 in 1941. Rogers Hornsby .424 in 1924. Roger Maris 61 in 61. Hank Aaron, 755. Numbers in baseball mean so much. How many yards did Johnny Unitas throw for? How many yards does the NFL's all-time rushing leader have? Who is the all-time rushing leader? How many points did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar have? Numbers in baseball are memorable and meaningful, not as much in other sports. That is why the steroid era in baseball and the skewered stats has upset so many baseball fans.
We were lamenting the fact that young people today don't have the same passion and love of the game that people of their age generations ago did. That's incredibly sad.
Too bad my football loving, baseball loathing radio co-host Andy Cornell wasn't there. Sitting with us would have been torture for him but it might have put a little sense in his head. Well, probably not.
Yes, three baseball loving guys, talking about the National Pastime on a cold, blustery winter day in Colorado. And to top it off, Bruce paid the tab. Thanks Bruce! Oh yeah, Hendu will get the check next time!
We are going to broadcast our morning show, Kelley & Company, at Bruce's museum on Opening Day, April 9th. The museum is located on Blake Street and you can see the front of Coors Field from the establishment.
Bruce has one of the greatest individual collections of baseball and ballpark memorabilia in the world. The museum is something I would urge any baseball fan to visit. Unfortunately, and somewhat surprisingly, no Rockies have ever been there. It's only about 50-yards from the entrance of the stadium. Just another example of the modern day player not having much of an interest in the great history of the sport that had made them wealthy beyond belief.
In 2007, the Negro League museum had a gigantic trailer parked outside of Coors Field for a week. It was a mobile version of the museum. I went twice and it was a terrific look at the Negro Leagues, which holds an important place in baseball history and American history. Bruce told us that not one Rockies player stopped by to take a look. To Bruce, Ed and myself, that was shameful.
At lunch, Bruce was saying that while he enjoyed the Super Bowl, it doesn't give him the same thrill that baseball does. Ed and I are in total agreement.
Baseball is still the greatest game ever and some of the things we discussed backed that up.
We talked about football and basketball versus baseball. If you were to look at a football or basketball game from 60 years ago, it's a totally different game. If you were to go back in time and watch a baseball game from 1912...same game.
In baseball, you don't have to be a genetic freak to play. You can be the size of Freddie Patek, Frank Howard or anywhere in between. Size doesn't preclude anyone from playing. If you are 5'7 and want to play football or basketball, well, good luck. You won't get many opportunities, if any.
The statistics are rich and meaningful in baseball. Babe Ruth, 714 home runs. Joe DiMaggio 56-game hitting streak. Cy Young, 511 wins. Ted Williams .406 in 1941. Rogers Hornsby .424 in 1924. Roger Maris 61 in 61. Hank Aaron, 755. Numbers in baseball mean so much. How many yards did Johnny Unitas throw for? How many yards does the NFL's all-time rushing leader have? Who is the all-time rushing leader? How many points did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar have? Numbers in baseball are memorable and meaningful, not as much in other sports. That is why the steroid era in baseball and the skewered stats has upset so many baseball fans.
We were lamenting the fact that young people today don't have the same passion and love of the game that people of their age generations ago did. That's incredibly sad.
Too bad my football loving, baseball loathing radio co-host Andy Cornell wasn't there. Sitting with us would have been torture for him but it might have put a little sense in his head. Well, probably not.
Yes, three baseball loving guys, talking about the National Pastime on a cold, blustery winter day in Colorado. And to top it off, Bruce paid the tab. Thanks Bruce! Oh yeah, Hendu will get the check next time!
Hammel for Guthrie
I really like the trade the Rockies and Orioles consummated that sent righthanded pitcher Jason Hammel to the Baltimores for righty Jeremy Guthrie. Colorado also threw in serviceable reliever Matt Lindstrom.
This is the classic "change of scenery" trade that could benefit both teams.
I've always liked Guthrie and felt that playing in a terrible pitcher's park for a crummy team in a division with the Yankees, Rays, Red Sox and Blue Jays, four excellent offensive ball clubs, made his stats look a lot worse than they should be.
He always took the ball for the Orioles and gave them a chance to win. But, it has been a tough road for the O's the last 15-years or so.
In the National League West, Guthrie won't have to deal with offenses like he saw in the American League plus he doesn't have to worry about a DH anymore.
Hammel could benefit from going to Baltimore. He's familiar with the division having played for the Rays. He has shown flashes in the past but could never be a consistent winner. He would have two good starts, two bad ones, a good one, a bad one and so on. He was eventually sent to the bullpen the last six weeks of the season last year. Frustrating is probably a word the Rockies would use to describe Hammel. A good teammate and solid guy, he might be able to finally get that consistency in Baltimore.
I think this could be a good trade for both teams, especially Guthrie. One problem though. If Guthrie has a good season, the Rocks will have to pony up. He's a free-agent after the season. We'll see if Colorado will sign him to an extension now or gamble and play the waiting game.
This is the classic "change of scenery" trade that could benefit both teams.
I've always liked Guthrie and felt that playing in a terrible pitcher's park for a crummy team in a division with the Yankees, Rays, Red Sox and Blue Jays, four excellent offensive ball clubs, made his stats look a lot worse than they should be.
He always took the ball for the Orioles and gave them a chance to win. But, it has been a tough road for the O's the last 15-years or so.
In the National League West, Guthrie won't have to deal with offenses like he saw in the American League plus he doesn't have to worry about a DH anymore.
Hammel could benefit from going to Baltimore. He's familiar with the division having played for the Rays. He has shown flashes in the past but could never be a consistent winner. He would have two good starts, two bad ones, a good one, a bad one and so on. He was eventually sent to the bullpen the last six weeks of the season last year. Frustrating is probably a word the Rockies would use to describe Hammel. A good teammate and solid guy, he might be able to finally get that consistency in Baltimore.
I think this could be a good trade for both teams, especially Guthrie. One problem though. If Guthrie has a good season, the Rocks will have to pony up. He's a free-agent after the season. We'll see if Colorado will sign him to an extension now or gamble and play the waiting game.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Jonathan Schwartz
My dad used to listen to a radio host, on WNEW in New York, named Jonathan Schwartz. My dad liked Frank Sinatra and so did Schwartz who played his music all the time.
What I remember about Schwartz, and it just came back to me on this Super Bowl Sunday, was that he would always have a show on this day titled, "A Salute to Baseball on Super Bowl Sunday." Or something like that.
He would play baseball songs, talk about baseball and it was on this program that I first heard the song that would turn out to be my favorite baseball song, "Van Lingle Mungo."
Even though Schwartz is a New Yorker, he is a Red Sox fan and would always interview former Red Sox players. Never could understand how someone could grow up in New York but love the Red Sox. My uncle Bobby was the same way. Born and bred in the Bronx yet loved the Bostons. Weird.
I remember listening to those shows Schwartz did and getting excited for the upcoming baseball season although, in the dead of winter, to a kid, it seemed like it was months and months away.
By the way, WNEW was, at the time, the radio home of the New York Football Giants. Too bad the G-Men aren't going to be heard on WNEW-AM today. The station no longer exists. But Schwartz is still alive and kicking and probably waiting for spring training. Like the rest of us.
What I remember about Schwartz, and it just came back to me on this Super Bowl Sunday, was that he would always have a show on this day titled, "A Salute to Baseball on Super Bowl Sunday." Or something like that.
He would play baseball songs, talk about baseball and it was on this program that I first heard the song that would turn out to be my favorite baseball song, "Van Lingle Mungo."
Even though Schwartz is a New Yorker, he is a Red Sox fan and would always interview former Red Sox players. Never could understand how someone could grow up in New York but love the Red Sox. My uncle Bobby was the same way. Born and bred in the Bronx yet loved the Bostons. Weird.
I remember listening to those shows Schwartz did and getting excited for the upcoming baseball season although, in the dead of winter, to a kid, it seemed like it was months and months away.
By the way, WNEW was, at the time, the radio home of the New York Football Giants. Too bad the G-Men aren't going to be heard on WNEW-AM today. The station no longer exists. But Schwartz is still alive and kicking and probably waiting for spring training. Like the rest of us.
Ninety Feet of Perfection
I recently stumbled upon a great baseball blog called 90 Feet of Perfection (http://90feetofperfection.com)
Some tremendous pictures and quotes on there and you will spend a lot of time perusing the site.
Of course, the name of the blog comes from the amazingly accurate quote from Red Smith, one of the greatest sports writers ever. Smith wrote, "Ninety feet between home plate and first base may be the closest man has ever come to perfection."
I concur completely.
I would urge you to check out the blog. It's written by a baseball loving fellow named Duane Harris.
Some tremendous pictures and quotes on there and you will spend a lot of time perusing the site.
Of course, the name of the blog comes from the amazingly accurate quote from Red Smith, one of the greatest sports writers ever. Smith wrote, "Ninety feet between home plate and first base may be the closest man has ever come to perfection."
I concur completely.
I would urge you to check out the blog. It's written by a baseball loving fellow named Duane Harris.
What's The Deal?
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman was the victim of a shakedown artist named Louise Neathway. The 36-year old woman, whom Cashman had an extra-marital affair with, was extorting money from him and threatening to go to the media. Which she did. Apparently it's not the first time this not very attractive woman has stalked and threatened someone.
Three years ago Cashman had an affair with another woman as well.
Cashman's wife has had it and filed for divorce. She'll make out well financially in the deal.
A few years ago then Mets general manager Steve Phillips had an affair with a bloated Mets front office worker. She wasn't much to look at. The next affair Phillips had was when he was with ESPN and hooked up with a hideous looking monster named Brooke Hundley. After giving him a second chance, Marni Phillips divorced her philandering husband who was then fired by ESPN.
What is with these New York baseball general managers? Is the job so demanding that they need comfort from these skanks?
At least if you are going to cheat on your wife, make it with someone who looks like Marissa Miller or Kate Upton. At least then you can say to your wife, "Look at her. I couldn't help myself." Even the wife might silently say, "Yeah, she is pretty hot." But if I were the wife of Cashman or Phillips, I would say regarding their taste in mistresses, "With her? Really? That is what you threw your marriage away for?"
I guess these guys may have an eye for baseball talent but that's about it.
Three years ago Cashman had an affair with another woman as well.
Cashman's wife has had it and filed for divorce. She'll make out well financially in the deal.
A few years ago then Mets general manager Steve Phillips had an affair with a bloated Mets front office worker. She wasn't much to look at. The next affair Phillips had was when he was with ESPN and hooked up with a hideous looking monster named Brooke Hundley. After giving him a second chance, Marni Phillips divorced her philandering husband who was then fired by ESPN.
What is with these New York baseball general managers? Is the job so demanding that they need comfort from these skanks?
At least if you are going to cheat on your wife, make it with someone who looks like Marissa Miller or Kate Upton. At least then you can say to your wife, "Look at her. I couldn't help myself." Even the wife might silently say, "Yeah, she is pretty hot." But if I were the wife of Cashman or Phillips, I would say regarding their taste in mistresses, "With her? Really? That is what you threw your marriage away for?"
I guess these guys may have an eye for baseball talent but that's about it.
Off The Wagon
The big baseball story this week was Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton having a few drinks at a Dallas restaurant.
A friend of mine said it was "no big deal."
For most people, yes, it isn't a big deal to have a few drinks, so long they aren't driving. But for Hamilton it is a huge deal.
He is a recovering drug addict and alcoholic. While some may think that drinking isn't as bad as cocaine or heroin, it could cloud his judgement enough that he goes back to those drugs. Hamilton simply has to steer clear of any and all alcohol. Period. He had an alcohol relapse in 2009 and with the one this past week, it shows that he hasn't beaten his addiction.
Hamilton is drug tested three times a week and the Rangers have someone with him just about all the time. He is a valuable commodity and he's already thrown away three years of his career due to drug suspensions.
This latest episode will likely cost him a lot of money. Yet he still fell off the wagon and flirted with the possibility of using harder drugs. It must be frustrating to him, his family and the Rangers.
Hamilton is in the final year of a contract that will pay him more than 13-million dollars this season. He's already made more than 17-million in his career although early on he blew his 4-million dollar bonus from Tampa Bay on drugs.
Can the Rangers give him a multi-year deal worth in the 100-million dollar range if he can have a sudden relapse? Can they trust him? Do they have to always baby him?
By all accounts, Hamilton is a good guy. I feel for him in some ways because I'm sure he doesn't want to keep screwing up. But he can't help himself it seems.
I hope there is a nice ending to this story and I believe there will be.
What also would be a nice story would be if Hamilton became a free agent and signed with Tampa Bay, the team that drafted him number one overall in 1999, and he rewarded their faith with a happy conclusion to his career.
I don't know what kind of demons Hamilton has floating around in his head. I just hope he can conquer them one day at a time for the rest of his life.
A friend of mine said it was "no big deal."
For most people, yes, it isn't a big deal to have a few drinks, so long they aren't driving. But for Hamilton it is a huge deal.
He is a recovering drug addict and alcoholic. While some may think that drinking isn't as bad as cocaine or heroin, it could cloud his judgement enough that he goes back to those drugs. Hamilton simply has to steer clear of any and all alcohol. Period. He had an alcohol relapse in 2009 and with the one this past week, it shows that he hasn't beaten his addiction.
Hamilton is drug tested three times a week and the Rangers have someone with him just about all the time. He is a valuable commodity and he's already thrown away three years of his career due to drug suspensions.
This latest episode will likely cost him a lot of money. Yet he still fell off the wagon and flirted with the possibility of using harder drugs. It must be frustrating to him, his family and the Rangers.
Hamilton is in the final year of a contract that will pay him more than 13-million dollars this season. He's already made more than 17-million in his career although early on he blew his 4-million dollar bonus from Tampa Bay on drugs.
Can the Rangers give him a multi-year deal worth in the 100-million dollar range if he can have a sudden relapse? Can they trust him? Do they have to always baby him?
By all accounts, Hamilton is a good guy. I feel for him in some ways because I'm sure he doesn't want to keep screwing up. But he can't help himself it seems.
I hope there is a nice ending to this story and I believe there will be.
What also would be a nice story would be if Hamilton became a free agent and signed with Tampa Bay, the team that drafted him number one overall in 1999, and he rewarded their faith with a happy conclusion to his career.
I don't know what kind of demons Hamilton has floating around in his head. I just hope he can conquer them one day at a time for the rest of his life.
Super Bowl Sunday
What does Super Bowl Sunday mean to you?
For me, it means once the game is over, baseball is on the horizon. Yes, pitchers and catchers will report in a couple of weeks to spring training camps in Florida and Arizona.
I'm looking forward to the Super Bowl, as I always do, but more so this year since the Giants are in it. When the Giants aren't in it, the two weeks of hype gets tedious after a day or two. At least I've been interested in the hype, kind of, the past two weeks since my team is in the spotlight.
Sudden thought. My least liked football team, by far, is the Eagles. I hate the Cowboys and Redskins too but the Eagles really get under my skin. Hate is a good thing in sports. If you hate an individual like I hate the Eagles then that probably is not a good thing. Too much wasted energy and the person you hate likely doesn't care that you hate them. Anyway, hate in sports is good for rivalries and such.
So, if the Giants win the Super Bowl today, then they will have 4 Super Bowl titles to the Eagles none. That makes me feel real good. Also, the Eagles last NFL title was in 1960. So in my lifetime, the Eagles have never won a championship. That makes me feel very good. I hope it stays that way.
Oh yeah, once the game is over it's baseball, with the NCAA tournament and Stanley Cup playoffs on my sports radar. I'm looking forward to it.
For me, it means once the game is over, baseball is on the horizon. Yes, pitchers and catchers will report in a couple of weeks to spring training camps in Florida and Arizona.
I'm looking forward to the Super Bowl, as I always do, but more so this year since the Giants are in it. When the Giants aren't in it, the two weeks of hype gets tedious after a day or two. At least I've been interested in the hype, kind of, the past two weeks since my team is in the spotlight.
Sudden thought. My least liked football team, by far, is the Eagles. I hate the Cowboys and Redskins too but the Eagles really get under my skin. Hate is a good thing in sports. If you hate an individual like I hate the Eagles then that probably is not a good thing. Too much wasted energy and the person you hate likely doesn't care that you hate them. Anyway, hate in sports is good for rivalries and such.
So, if the Giants win the Super Bowl today, then they will have 4 Super Bowl titles to the Eagles none. That makes me feel real good. Also, the Eagles last NFL title was in 1960. So in my lifetime, the Eagles have never won a championship. That makes me feel very good. I hope it stays that way.
Oh yeah, once the game is over it's baseball, with the NCAA tournament and Stanley Cup playoffs on my sports radar. I'm looking forward to it.
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