Cubs Close to Reunion
Rumor has it that the Chicago Cubs are nearing a deal for pitcher Kerry Wood. That's right, folks, Kerry Wood is rumored to be returning to the place where it all started... and then went horribly wrong. It's a nice bookend on an otherwise promising, but mediocre career.
Indians Legend Passes
The baseball world mourns the passing of another legend this year. The winningest pitcher in Cleveland Indians history, Bob "the Smeller is the" Feller passed away. Feller was an 8-time All Star and was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 1962. It was erroneously reported to have passed away last week, but was merely placed in hospice before passing away on the 15th.
The Cliff Lee Sweepstakes
Once again, delivering top-notch, late-breaking news long after it happens, Bases Loaded Balk has learned that Cliff Lee has decided to join the Philadelphia Phillies after coming to an agreement on a 5-year, $120 million deal with a vesting option for a sixth year. Lee personally let the Rangers know, and his agent broke the news to the Yankees.
Here's what we have learned:
1) Players don't always want the maximum years and the maximum dollars. Lee turned down more years and more dollars from both the Yankees and Rangers to go back to Philadelphia, where he spent the last half of the 2009 season and went to the World Series for the first time.
2) The Yankees can't get whoever they want if that person doesn't want to be on the Yankees. Don't worry, Yankee fans, I'm sure this had absolutely nothing to do with the fact that you spit on the guys wife during the playoffs. I'm sure he felt safe and welcomed by that reception.
3) The Phillies will be the overwhelming favorite to win the National League in 2011. In fact, some are already arguing that this may be the best rotation in baseball history... before Spring Training even starts. There is certainly that possibility. Two years ago, Hamels was the staff ace, since then, they have traded for Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt and Cliff Lee - three guys that would be the ace on just about any other staff in all of baseball. However, let's hold off on the accolades until the season is over.
4) The mystery team is not always a fabrication by the agent. ESPN's Buster Olney had tweeted the other day that most of the time, a "mystery team" is simply created by the player's agent in order to gain some leverage in the negotiations. Clearly, the Phillies were the mystery team that was involved - quite unexpectedly because...
5) Just because you trade a player away, don't assume that he's never going to come back. The Phillies traded Lee to the Mariners last offseason as part of a three-team deal that brought Roy Halladay to Philadelphia. The reason they traded Lee: they didn't think they could work out an extension with him.
6) The Yankees are no longer the Yankees of old. Just a couple of years ago, the Yankees would have signed at least one, if not two, of the top free agents. This year, they looked like Alex Rodriguez in a playoff game - going 0-3 on the big fish. In fact, with the signing of Crawford and acquisition (and extension) of Gonzalez, I'd say the Red Sox have become the very thing they hated.
Finally, the Yankees and Rangers have to move on, and perhaps their respective fanbases will be excited to hear the rumors that are flying around regarding Plan B for these teams.
Apparently the Rangers have expressed interest in former Yankee Chien-Ming Wang, and the Yankees could possibly be the next stop in the Mark Prior comeback trail. Yeah, that's what happens when you put all your eggs in one basket... or some other metaphor that conveys a similar idea.
Here's what we have learned:
1) Players don't always want the maximum years and the maximum dollars. Lee turned down more years and more dollars from both the Yankees and Rangers to go back to Philadelphia, where he spent the last half of the 2009 season and went to the World Series for the first time.
2) The Yankees can't get whoever they want if that person doesn't want to be on the Yankees. Don't worry, Yankee fans, I'm sure this had absolutely nothing to do with the fact that you spit on the guys wife during the playoffs. I'm sure he felt safe and welcomed by that reception.
3) The Phillies will be the overwhelming favorite to win the National League in 2011. In fact, some are already arguing that this may be the best rotation in baseball history... before Spring Training even starts. There is certainly that possibility. Two years ago, Hamels was the staff ace, since then, they have traded for Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt and Cliff Lee - three guys that would be the ace on just about any other staff in all of baseball. However, let's hold off on the accolades until the season is over.
4) The mystery team is not always a fabrication by the agent. ESPN's Buster Olney had tweeted the other day that most of the time, a "mystery team" is simply created by the player's agent in order to gain some leverage in the negotiations. Clearly, the Phillies were the mystery team that was involved - quite unexpectedly because...
5) Just because you trade a player away, don't assume that he's never going to come back. The Phillies traded Lee to the Mariners last offseason as part of a three-team deal that brought Roy Halladay to Philadelphia. The reason they traded Lee: they didn't think they could work out an extension with him.
6) The Yankees are no longer the Yankees of old. Just a couple of years ago, the Yankees would have signed at least one, if not two, of the top free agents. This year, they looked like Alex Rodriguez in a playoff game - going 0-3 on the big fish. In fact, with the signing of Crawford and acquisition (and extension) of Gonzalez, I'd say the Red Sox have become the very thing they hated.
Finally, the Yankees and Rangers have to move on, and perhaps their respective fanbases will be excited to hear the rumors that are flying around regarding Plan B for these teams.
Apparently the Rangers have expressed interest in former Yankee Chien-Ming Wang, and the Yankees could possibly be the next stop in the Mark Prior comeback trail. Yeah, that's what happens when you put all your eggs in one basket... or some other metaphor that conveys a similar idea.
Tribute to Ron Santo
I'm a Cardinal fan. That doesn't mean I'm heartless. Not long ago, long-time Cubs player & announcer Ron Santo passed away. Santo certainly deserves HOF consideration, but has still be passed on every year. Below is a first-person account of a third-person conversation that I had with a friend of mine just a few months ago:
"So, we have to take the elevator down, and when the doors open, there's Ron Santo standing there. It was so cool."
I don't remember if those were the exact words of the conversation, but you get the idea - Ron Santo liked to ride the elevator... and he was pretty cool.
Rest in Peace, Ron.
"So, we have to take the elevator down, and when the doors open, there's Ron Santo standing there. It was so cool."
I don't remember if those were the exact words of the conversation, but you get the idea - Ron Santo liked to ride the elevator... and he was pretty cool.
Rest in Peace, Ron.
Catching Up on the Offseason
It's been a busy couple of weeks in the baseball world. As I write this, the Winter Meetings are being held at the Goose & Manatee Swan & Dolphin Resort at Disney World. All kinds of crazy things are happening in the baseball world. So... to the best of my ability and desire to spend only a certain amount of time working on this post... here's an update on the 2010/2011 Baseball Offseason:
- Victor Martinez became the first big name off the board when he signed with the Detroit Lions to play outside linebacker. Wait a minute... that doesn't sound right....
- Jayson Werth made the Nationals severely overpay for his services by signing a 7-year, $126 million deal. That's the price you pay for quality free agents when you are a bad team. Rumor has it that there wasn't another team even willing to go 5 years on the outfielder with the awesome beard. In fact, his agent, Scott Boras, didn't even bother going to the other teams in the bidding for a counter-offer because the Nationals overpaid by that much.
- Mark Reynolds, the holder of the top 3 spots in "most strikeouts in a season" was traded to the Baltimore Orioles for a pair of relievers. He should solidify an already mediocre lineup with his 2010 sub-.200 batting average. Let's face it, though, it doesn't matter what the Orioles do, they are the fifth best team in a division with four good teams.
- In a move that can only be explained by the Padres hatred of almost winning the NL West in 2010, Adrian Gonzalez was traded to the Boston Red Sox. This is a move that had an effect on another free agent, who will be discussed next.
- Adrian Beltre got the shaft in Boston. With the other Adrian being traded to Red Sox nation, Beltre is out of luck. Gonzo plays 1st, Youk moves to 3rd, Beltre gets left off the roster.
- Adam Dunn and Paul Konerko are going to be wearing White Sox uniforms next season, which won't be odd for Konerko because that's what he has been wearing for quite some time, but Dunn will actually be playing on a team with a shot at its division title, which will be a first for him.
- Carl Crawford inked a 7-year deal with the Red Sox, which is significant for two reasons: 1) he becomes the highest paid "Carl" in the history of the world (at $142 mil over the 7 years), and 2) the Red Sox have turned into the Yankees North.
- Speaking of the Red Sox and Yankees, rumor has it that the Red Sox contacted Mariano Rivera's agent about bringing the lifelong Yankee to the Yankees North. In turn, the Yanks got involved in the Crawford negotiations. You see how that worked out for both teams, as Crawford is a Red Sox and Rivera is still a Yankee.
- While we're on the topic of Yankee players, the Jeter negotiations went smoothly, didn't they? Cashman and Jeter decided that the best way to negotiate this contract was through disparaging remarks in the media. I think they trade him to the Orioles in two years.
- In the Cliff Lee sweepstakes, apparently the Yankees really, really want the 32-year old pitcher because they have now upped their offer to seven years for around $160 million. After all, who doesn't want to pay a 38-year old pitcher $20+ million for two more years? There's no way that's a bad contract for the Yankees.
- A couple of mid-name shortstops are on the move. J.J. Hardy was traded to the Orioles, who will be trading for Jeter in two years, and Jason Bartlett was traded to the Padres, where he will be teamed up with whoever it was the Padres got from Boston for auctioning away their future.
Well, that about sums up the major and minor news from the Winter Meetings. The Rule 5 Draft is taking place Thursday morning, but it's doubtful that anything significant will come from there.
Pujols' Extension
One of the big things that Cardinal fans are thinking about this offseason is the fact that the Cardinals need to sign star Albert Pujols to an extension that will make him a Cardinal for life.
MLB Trade Rumors recently put up a post that SI's Jon Heyman tweeted that the Pujols camp is seeking something around A-Rod's 10 year, $275 million deal from 2007. A-Rod was 32 when that deal was signed. Pujols will be turning 31 next month.
I think in all of the offseason rumors that are milling about, this has to be the biggest "Duh" rumor out there. I mean, seriously, should the best player in the game get paid like he is the best player in the game? I imagine so... duh. After 10 seasons, Pujols is sitting at a career line of .331/.426/.624, 408 HRs, 1900 Hits, 1230 RBIs, 1186 Rs, 9 All Star Games, 3 MVP awards (never finishing out of the Top 10 in MVP voting either). Yeah, I'd say A-Rod type money is deserving for his final 10 years in the Bigs. Duh.
MLB Trade Rumors recently put up a post that SI's Jon Heyman tweeted that the Pujols camp is seeking something around A-Rod's 10 year, $275 million deal from 2007. A-Rod was 32 when that deal was signed. Pujols will be turning 31 next month.
I think in all of the offseason rumors that are milling about, this has to be the biggest "Duh" rumor out there. I mean, seriously, should the best player in the game get paid like he is the best player in the game? I imagine so... duh. After 10 seasons, Pujols is sitting at a career line of .331/.426/.624, 408 HRs, 1900 Hits, 1230 RBIs, 1186 Rs, 9 All Star Games, 3 MVP awards (never finishing out of the Top 10 in MVP voting either). Yeah, I'd say A-Rod type money is deserving for his final 10 years in the Bigs. Duh.
Oh Yeah, Those Other Ones
While the ROY, MVP, Cy Young, Gold Gloves, Silver Sluggers and Manager of the Year are the major awards to which people actually somewhat pay attention, there actually are a few other awards in the postseason that aren't really worth mentioning, but I thought I would anyway.
AL Comeback Player of the Year: Francisco Liriano
NL Comeback Player of the Year: Tim Hudson
Also known as the Imagine What We Could Have Done Last Season If So-and-so Didn't Get Hurt (IWWCHDLSIS&sDGH), a pair of pitchers who helped lead their team to the postseason this year walked off with the hardware... or plastic... I'm not really sure what this stuff is made of.
Delivery of the Year: Heath Bell
Can you imagine if his last name was Bar? That would be so awesome.
Clemente Award: Tim Wakefield
Also known as the Most Likely to Die a Premature Death in a Plane Crash Award (What? Too soon?).
AL Hank Aaron Award: Jose Bautista
NL Hank Aaron Award: Joey Votto
So... let me get this straight. Votto wins the Hank Aaron Award (given to the top offensive player in each league), and he doesn't win the Silver Slugger? Interesting...
AL Comeback Player of the Year: Francisco Liriano
NL Comeback Player of the Year: Tim Hudson
Also known as the Imagine What We Could Have Done Last Season If So-and-so Didn't Get Hurt (IWWCHDLSIS&sDGH), a pair of pitchers who helped lead their team to the postseason this year walked off with the hardware... or plastic... I'm not really sure what this stuff is made of.
Delivery of the Year: Heath Bell
Can you imagine if his last name was Bar? That would be so awesome.
Clemente Award: Tim Wakefield
Also known as the Most Likely to Die a Premature Death in a Plane Crash Award (What? Too soon?).
AL Hank Aaron Award: Jose Bautista
NL Hank Aaron Award: Joey Votto
So... let me get this straight. Votto wins the Hank Aaron Award (given to the top offensive player in each league), and he doesn't win the Silver Slugger? Interesting...
You Down With M-V-P? Yeah, You Know Me!
The National League and American League MVPs were announced earlier this week. Quite frankly, neither one was much of a surprise.
Joey Votto won the NL Award over Albert Pujols and Carlos Gonzales. Legitimately, any of those three could have won the award this season, but Votto still managed to garner all but one first place vote. For my Reds friends who now want to talk smack about Votto getting it over Pujols - once Votto has finished in the Top 4 nine times in ten seasons (and 9th in the other season), we'll talk.
In a rags to riches story that could only be written in Arlington, Josh Hamilton won the AL MVP, just a few short years after everybody thought he wasted his talent on booze and drugs. I'm not sure what the moral of the story is, but I have a feeling that if you are a recovering drug abuser, then I'm pretty sure that Arlington, TX is your place of fairy tale endings.
Joey Votto won the NL Award over Albert Pujols and Carlos Gonzales. Legitimately, any of those three could have won the award this season, but Votto still managed to garner all but one first place vote. For my Reds friends who now want to talk smack about Votto getting it over Pujols - once Votto has finished in the Top 4 nine times in ten seasons (and 9th in the other season), we'll talk.
In a rags to riches story that could only be written in Arlington, Josh Hamilton won the AL MVP, just a few short years after everybody thought he wasted his talent on booze and drugs. I'm not sure what the moral of the story is, but I have a feeling that if you are a recovering drug abuser, then I'm pretty sure that Arlington, TX is your place of fairy tale endings.
Attention V-Mart Shoppers
Since this is everybody's first place for breaking news, the first major free agent signing of the winter took place just seconds ago...
Victor Martinez, the 1B-DH-C-BNAS (Backup National Anthem Singer) formerly of the Indians and Red Sox, signed a 4-year, $50 million deal with the Detroit Tigers. The career .300 hitter should solidfy an already half-way decent, mildly dangerous, frequently injured lineup.
Victor Martinez, the 1B-DH-C-BNAS (Backup National Anthem Singer) formerly of the Indians and Red Sox, signed a 4-year, $50 million deal with the Detroit Tigers. The career .300 hitter should solidfy an already half-way decent, mildly dangerous, frequently injured lineup.
Cy Youngs Announced
The National League Cy Young Award was handed out a couple of days ago, so hopefully, you don't come here for breaking news. Meanwhile, breaking news, the American League Cy Young Award was handed out about an hour ago... well, as of writing this, it was an hour ago. How am I supposed to know when you are reading it?
Roy Halladay, traded from the Blue Jays to the Phillies in the offseason, won the NL Award. Everybody assumed that he would totally dominate the National League simply because he was a good pitcher in the American League. Let's face it, everybody pretty much gave him the award once he was traded to Philadelphia, all he had to do was show that he earned it... and he did.... unanimously.
Continuing their trend of bestowing the hardware to pitchers with poor records, the AL Cy Young winner was Felix Hernandez of the Seattle Mariners. He posted a 13-12 record on the year, but more impressive was the fact that his bullpen/offense didn't manage to blow every game that he pitched for them. The only other player to win a Cy Young with 13 wins was Fernando Valenzuela, who did it in the strike-shortened 1981 campaign.
Managing for the Hardware
There have been a lot of captains throughout the years.
Captain Planet
Captain Jack Sparrow
Of course, who could forget...
Captain Caveman
And... Captain.... whoever the heck this guy is.
But the main guys at the helm for National League and American League teams, the ones who bravely led their team to defy all expectations, the ones who were named Manager of the Year:
It's hard to really argue with the selection of either candidate. After being the runner-up for five of the last eight seasons, Gardenhire wins his first Manager of the Year. He led the Twins to the AL Central division title, in spite of the fact that one of his top players had an awful year at the plate (not so well played, Mauer), and another missed basically the last half of the season trying to come back from a concussion. Honestly, I think Ron Washington is more deserving, but mostly because I wanted another reason to put up a picture of him eating an imaginary apple.
Yup, that picture.
I imagine that some people really wanted Dusty Baker to win the NL award because of how the Reds finished and made the playoffs, but quite honestly, Black was a better decision. He took the Padres from the cellar of the 2009 season into contention until the last day of the 2010 season... all without any major overhauls on the roster. In the 2009-2010 offseason, the talk was all about where the Padres were going to ship first baseman Adrian Gonzalez and closer Heath Bar.... errrr... Bell.
Speaking of people that really wanted Baker to win it. I'm assuming that Captain Jean Luc Picard, clearly a Reds fan (look at what he's wearing), is one of those people. Here is he expressing his feelings to the AP.
Sorry, kids. That is an action unbecoming of a Starfleet officer. Unbelievable.
Captain Planet
Captain Jack Sparrow
Of course, who could forget...
Captain Caveman
And... Captain.... whoever the heck this guy is.
But the main guys at the helm for National League and American League teams, the ones who bravely led their team to defy all expectations, the ones who were named Manager of the Year:
American League
Ron Gardenhire of the Minnesota Twins
National League
Bud Black of the San Diego Padres
It's hard to really argue with the selection of either candidate. After being the runner-up for five of the last eight seasons, Gardenhire wins his first Manager of the Year. He led the Twins to the AL Central division title, in spite of the fact that one of his top players had an awful year at the plate (not so well played, Mauer), and another missed basically the last half of the season trying to come back from a concussion. Honestly, I think Ron Washington is more deserving, but mostly because I wanted another reason to put up a picture of him eating an imaginary apple.
Yup, that picture.
I imagine that some people really wanted Dusty Baker to win the NL award because of how the Reds finished and made the playoffs, but quite honestly, Black was a better decision. He took the Padres from the cellar of the 2009 season into contention until the last day of the 2010 season... all without any major overhauls on the roster. In the 2009-2010 offseason, the talk was all about where the Padres were going to ship first baseman Adrian Gonzalez and closer Heath Bar.... errrr... Bell.
Speaking of people that really wanted Baker to win it. I'm assuming that Captain Jean Luc Picard, clearly a Reds fan (look at what he's wearing), is one of those people. Here is he expressing his feelings to the AP.
Sorry, kids. That is an action unbecoming of a Starfleet officer. Unbelievable.
The Marlins are Idiots
Okay, maybe that's a little harsh, but word came down not too long ago that the Florida Marlins have agreed to trade Dan Uggla to the Atlanta Braves for infielder Omar Infante and and reliever Mike Dunn. I think the Braves got the better end of this deal. Infante had a nice season, but he's no Uggla. And, Dunn? Well, honestly, I have no idea who he is in the first place.
So, why are the Marlins idiots? You don't trade one of your best players to a team in the division... you know, one of the first teams that you have to beat over the course of the season. Okay... maybe it worked out for the Philadelphia Eagles, who traded Donovan McNabb to the Redskins... but the Redskins didn't just make the playoffs like the Braves did.
But perhaps the greatest part in all of this is Mark Bowman's tweet on the situation.
That's right, the Braves were indeed "very close to nearing a deal." This guy's a writer? Geez!
So, why are the Marlins idiots? You don't trade one of your best players to a team in the division... you know, one of the first teams that you have to beat over the course of the season. Okay... maybe it worked out for the Philadelphia Eagles, who traded Donovan McNabb to the Redskins... but the Redskins didn't just make the playoffs like the Braves did.
But perhaps the greatest part in all of this is Mark Bowman's tweet on the situation.
@mlbbowmanMark Bowman
#Braves appear to very close to nearing deal for Dan Uggla.
That's right, the Braves were indeed "very close to nearing a deal." This guy's a writer? Geez!
ROYs Announced
The National League and American League Rookie of the Year Award was handed out today to the top first year players in each league. Can't really say that there were a lot of surprises here.
Buster Posey of the San Francisco Giants won in the NL after being called up in May and putting up slugging and on-base numbers that were only bested by some scrubs named Pujols, Votto, Carlos & Adrian Gonazalez. Personally, I was pulling for St. Louis pitcher Jaime Garcia, but after he was pretty well shut down at the end of the season I knew that he didn't have a chance. Garcia ended up 3rd in the voting trailing Posey and runner-up Jayson Heyward of the Atlanta Braves.
In the American League, Rangers' closer Neftali Feliz took 20 of 28 first place votes to walk away with the award. Feliz had 40 saves in his debut season for the American League champion Rangers, a team record. Also, in related news, Feliz won the Major League Award for coolest name, beating out players such as: Jo-Jo Reyes, Marc Rzepczynski, Nelson Figueroa, Esmerling Vasquez and Wilfredo Ledezma.
Buster Posey of the San Francisco Giants won in the NL after being called up in May and putting up slugging and on-base numbers that were only bested by some scrubs named Pujols, Votto, Carlos & Adrian Gonazalez. Personally, I was pulling for St. Louis pitcher Jaime Garcia, but after he was pretty well shut down at the end of the season I knew that he didn't have a chance. Garcia ended up 3rd in the voting trailing Posey and runner-up Jayson Heyward of the Atlanta Braves.
In the American League, Rangers' closer Neftali Feliz took 20 of 28 first place votes to walk away with the award. Feliz had 40 saves in his debut season for the American League champion Rangers, a team record. Also, in related news, Feliz won the Major League Award for coolest name, beating out players such as: Jo-Jo Reyes, Marc Rzepczynski, Nelson Figueroa, Esmerling Vasquez and Wilfredo Ledezma.
Silver Slugs
Quite possibly the coolest creepy-looking thing I've ever seen: a dragon slug
As the awards season presses onward to its inevitable conclusion, the Silver Slugger Awards were handed out to the top offensive player at each position. Here are your winners:
American League
C: Joe Mauer (well played... again...)
1B: Miguel Cabrera
2B: Robinson Cano
3B: Adrian Beltre (wait a tick, is it 2004 again?)
SS: Alexei Ramirez
OF: Jose Bautista (raise your hand if you had Bautista as the MLB HR leader. Anybody? Anybody?)
OF: Carl Crawford
OF: Josh Hamilton
DH: Vladimir Guerrero (yeah, that totally makes up for those errors in San Fran)
National League
C: Brian McCann
1B: Albert Pujols (plus the Gold Glove & somehow Votto is favored for MVP)
2B: Dan Uggla (soon to be a former Marlins player from the looks of things)
3B: Ryan Zimmerman
SS: Troy Tulowitzki (So, a mullet's just a bunch of hair?)
OF: Ryan Braun
OF: Carlos Gonzalez
OF: Matt Holliday (so much for people ragging on his inability to hit in the clutch)
DH: Yovani Gallardo (he's a pitcher... why is he listed as DH?)
Can I Paint His Glove Gooooooolllldd?
Much to the delight of a certain villain from Austin Powers, the Gold Gloves were awarded to (allegedly) the best defensive players at each position. Here are your winners:
American League
C: Joe Mauer (well played indeed)
1B: Mark Teixeira (Remember, I before E except in Teixeira)
2B: Robinson Cano
3B: Evan Longoria (no, Evan, that's not your hat!)
SS: Derek Jeter
OF: Carl Crawford
OF: Ichiro Suzuki (10th consecutive GG)
OF: Franklin Gutierrez
P: Mark Buehrle (who sealed his up in April with this play)
National League
C: Yadier Molina (at least he didn't hit .262 in vain)
1B: Albert Pujols (once again showing why he is the best player in the game)
2B: Brandon Phillips
3B: Scott Rolen (Remember when he used to play on the Cardinals... that was awesome)
SS: Troy Tulowitzki (I thought a mullet was a fish!)
OF: Michael Bourn (Michael Bourn... not Jason Bourne)
OF: Carlos Gonzalez
OF: Shane Victorino (the only guy on the NL list whose team actually won a playoff game)
P: Bronson Arroyo
I have only heard of mild controversy about these choices. Most don't seem to think that Jeter deserved to win, and I've heard a few rumblings about Zimmerman getting overlooked at NL 3B. All in all, this is an award that often ends up being based more on reputation instead of the actual defensive numbers. Of course, you know how I feel about advanced statistics.
Breakfast of Champions
Pablo Sandoval, also known as Kung Fu Panda in some circles, plays for the recently crowned World Champion San Francisco Giants. Some have noticed a severe dip in his production from last season to this season (.330 to .268 BA; 25 to 13 HR; 90 to 63 RBI). I saw this awesome tweet from ESPN's Buster Olney today that might help explain why.
@Buster_ESPNBuster Olney
Pablo Sandoval will go into the spring training on notice. A friend saw him power down this breakfast during WS: Cheetos and Mountain Dew.
I can't even begin to describe how much this makes me laugh. It sounds as though Timmy's habits may have caught on to some other guys who have succumbed to the munchies throughout the season. No word yet on Sandoval's reaction to the destruction of Proposition 19.
Passing of a Legend
In case you haven't already heard, Sparky Anderson the first manager to lead teams from both leagues to victories in the World Series passed away earlier this week. Anderson managed the Red and Tigers to World Championships. Incidentally, only one other manager has led teams in both leagues to a World Series Championship - Tony LaRussa, who led the Cardinals and the A's to baseball's version of the Promised Land. Sparky will truly be missed, after all, with a name like Sparky, you know he has to be awesome.
Stories of Sparky's generosity abound. Here he is about to share a piece of gum with Cecil Fielder.
Sparky cared a great deal about his players.
Some would say he could only be faulted for caring too much.
This picture is awesome because pipes make a person 35% more awesome.
Here he is letting God know that they'll be seeing each other soon.
Putting a Bow(tie) on 2010
Well, I guess that does it. So much for the Rangers winning the World Series in their first trip. The San Francisco Giants are your 2010 World Series Champions. I don't know if I have it saved, but at some point during the season, I think it was on an MLB Network Radio status update midseason, I said that the Giants are a darkhorse for the World Series because of their pitching. If they can get into the playoffs - seriously, this is what I said at the time - they have a legitimate shot of winning it all simply because of their pitching staff. And then they scored 20 runs in the first 2 games.
While small victories are just that... small... I would also like to note that Timmy Lincecum is not going to legally be able to celebrate in his usual way, as Proposition 19 was shot down by California voters by half a million votes. The reason: stoners weren't sensible enough to actually vote... because they were stoned.
Regardless, I think this officer of the law has the right expression as far as the Giants actually winning the Series is concerned.
World Series Wager
Pete Rose's favorite hobby, gambling on baseball, is coming into play as the World Series starts this week. Rumor has it that the mayors of San Francisco and Arlington have put a friendly wager on the game. In addition to a day of community service in the victor's town while wearing that team's jersey, the losing mayor is going to have to send over some food.
If the Rangers win, Mayor Gavin Newsom of San Francisco will ship out Dungeness crab, sourdough bread, Ghirardelli chocolate and Anchor Steam beer. If the Giants win, Mayor Robert Cluck of Arlington will ship food from a local BBQ joint called Spring Creek BBQ, reportedly the best in Texas (though, this has yet to be verified from an inside source).
Perhaps what catches my eye in all of this is the fact that Arlington's mayor's last name is Cluck. I find it really funny that a place so steeped in the finer qualities and traditions of beef shares the last name with the noise from a chicken.
If the Rangers win, Mayor Gavin Newsom of San Francisco will ship out Dungeness crab, sourdough bread, Ghirardelli chocolate and Anchor Steam beer. If the Giants win, Mayor Robert Cluck of Arlington will ship food from a local BBQ joint called Spring Creek BBQ, reportedly the best in Texas (though, this has yet to be verified from an inside source).
Perhaps what catches my eye in all of this is the fact that Arlington's mayor's last name is Cluck. I find it really funny that a place so steeped in the finer qualities and traditions of beef shares the last name with the noise from a chicken.
Giants Advance to World Series
I suppose to be fair, I just probably mention that the San Francisco Giants defeated the Philadelphia Phillies to advance to the World Series. Sorry if I'm just not that excited about the Giants in the Series. I'm really, really, not a fan of Lincecum. Maybe I'm still a little bitter that he won the Cy Young over Wainwright (who totally deserved it more) last season, maybe I'm just not a fan of a guy who was busted for possession and didn't receive any kind of disciplinary action from the league, or maybe I just don't like the fact that an f-bomb is his go-to adjective. Either way, congrats to the Giants, blah, blah, blah.
And, just a fun side note, Benji Molina, who was traded from the Giants to the Rangers earlier this season is officially the first person to win a World Series ring this season. Good to see another Molina brother get a ring.
Pictures? We don't need no stinkin' pictures.
And, just a fun side note, Benji Molina, who was traded from the Giants to the Rangers earlier this season is officially the first person to win a World Series ring this season. Good to see another Molina brother get a ring.
Pictures? We don't need no stinkin' pictures.
Rangers Advance to World Series
Congratulations to the Texas Rangers for 1) putting a beat-down on the New York Yankees, and 2) making it to the first World Series in franchise history.
Just think, in Spring Training, manager Ron Washington was admitting to doing blow around this time last year (if you had to manage this team last year, you might've as well), everybody was penciling the Mariners in as the best team in the West, and the Rangers were a "good offense with no pitching."
Then they stole Cliff Lee from the grasp of the Evil Empire, and used him to take down the Yankees. Then Nolan Ryan took over as owner of the team. Then, just as everyone had imagined ten years ago, Alex Rodriguez was at the plate in Arlington with a chance to go to the World Series.... of course, everybody thought that he would be wearing a different uniform, but regardless, A-Rod played an integral part in the Rangers run to the World Series.
To honor the Rangers in their charge to the World Series...
Just think, in Spring Training, manager Ron Washington was admitting to doing blow around this time last year (if you had to manage this team last year, you might've as well), everybody was penciling the Mariners in as the best team in the West, and the Rangers were a "good offense with no pitching."
Then they stole Cliff Lee from the grasp of the Evil Empire, and used him to take down the Yankees. Then Nolan Ryan took over as owner of the team. Then, just as everyone had imagined ten years ago, Alex Rodriguez was at the plate in Arlington with a chance to go to the World Series.... of course, everybody thought that he would be wearing a different uniform, but regardless, A-Rod played an integral part in the Rangers run to the World Series.
To honor the Rangers in their charge to the World Series...
Unfortunately, I couldn't find a clearer picture, but Ryan's face as the bullpen blew Game 1 was hilarious. That, or former owner... and President... George W. Bush said something really stupid.... again.
Not that he needed it, but here is Nelson Cruz receiving directions as to the location of home plate.
And, of course, no Ranger post would be complete without Ron Washington eating another imaginary apple.
Taking a Break
Well, folks, I know that this is the sporadic highlight of your day, but I'll be taking a break for the next week or so as my wife and I are heading off for vacation with her family. I look forward to catching up on all the baseball madness when we get back.
Rangers Advance to ALCS
Oh, what's that you say? There was another Division Series? Oh, I thought we were ready for a Philly-Yankee rematch already. No? Must've just been the talking heads. Anyhoo....
We have moved one step closer to the inevitable conclusion of this season... you know, one where an East Coast team wins the World Series.... again....
Congratulations to the Texas Rangers for their first ever postseason series win in their long and illustrious history. After giving me hope that I might be able to sneak over to a playoff game while I'm in Orlando at the end of the week, the Tampa Bay Rays' bats once again bowed down to the postseason greatness that is Cliff Lee, showing why the Rangers worked so hard to steal him away from the Yankees, and at the same time, damaging the Rangers chances of winning the ALCS by making Lee unavailable until Game 3.
Enjoy it while you can, Arlington. People have already written you off.... not me.... just other people.
We have moved one step closer to the inevitable conclusion of this season... you know, one where an East Coast team wins the World Series.... again....
Congratulations to the Texas Rangers for their first ever postseason series win in their long and illustrious history. After giving me hope that I might be able to sneak over to a playoff game while I'm in Orlando at the end of the week, the Tampa Bay Rays' bats once again bowed down to the postseason greatness that is Cliff Lee, showing why the Rangers worked so hard to steal him away from the Yankees, and at the same time, damaging the Rangers chances of winning the ALCS by making Lee unavailable until Game 3.
Enjoy it while you can, Arlington. People have already written you off.... not me.... just other people.
Apparently Ranger fans are terrible at catching unless they use their face. I love how the lady behind the guy who takes the phrase "keep your eye on the ball" too literally is laughing hysterically.
Michael Young, who had never been in the postseason until this year, tries to Kung Fu kick his entire team.
Before Tuesday night, this was the greatest moment in Texas Ranger baseball history.
Once again, manager Ron Washington is eating an imaginary apple. Crack is whack, folks.
Finally, a reminder of the greatest Texas Ranger in the history of the franchise.
Bobby Cox Goes Out in Style
Long time manager of the Atlanta Braves appeared in his final game when the Braves lost 3-2 to the Giants in Game 4 of the NLDS.
I was going to putting a touching tribute to Bobby starting with It's So Hard to Say Goodbye by Boyz II Men.... then I came across this clip of Willie singing it.... and well.... it just fits so much better with the rest of what's going on here at BLB. I'm not really sure why Willie is wearing what he's wearing.... just embrace the serenade as you view the pictures of Bobby.
The only fitting way to end this post is to say something that Bobby has heard a record number of times, "You're outta here!"
I was going to putting a touching tribute to Bobby starting with It's So Hard to Say Goodbye by Boyz II Men.... then I came across this clip of Willie singing it.... and well.... it just fits so much better with the rest of what's going on here at BLB. I'm not really sure why Willie is wearing what he's wearing.... just embrace the serenade as you view the pictures of Bobby.
The only fitting way to end this post is to say something that Bobby has heard a record number of times, "You're outta here!"
Giants Advance to NLCS
The San Francisco Giants have advanced to the NLCS by virtue of another 3-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves. One thing is for sure about this year's NLCS - there probably isn't going to be a lot of runs scored. The Giants and the Phillies have put together phenomenal pitching performances so far this postseason, led by Roy Halladay and Tim Lincecum.
I think that I'll be rooting for the Phillies in this particular series. Not so much because I like their mascot better than the Giants' mascot, but because I can't stand Tim Lincecum. For a stoner, girly-haired, foul-mouthed pitcher, he's pretty good, but I can't root for a guy who has absolutely no control over his language. To get an idea of what I'm talking about, you can check out this highlight from mlb.com (he's the girly-haired dude whose profanity doesn't get drowned out by the fan noise), or jump back to this post.
I think that I'll be rooting for the Phillies in this particular series. Not so much because I like their mascot better than the Giants' mascot, but because I can't stand Tim Lincecum. For a stoner, girly-haired, foul-mouthed pitcher, he's pretty good, but I can't root for a guy who has absolutely no control over his language. To get an idea of what I'm talking about, you can check out this highlight from mlb.com (he's the girly-haired dude whose profanity doesn't get drowned out by the fan noise), or jump back to this post.
Phillies Advance to the NLCS
The Philadelphia Phillies advanced to the NLCS following another embarrassing game by the Cincinnati Reds, who were no-hit, shut-out and gave the other away with 4 errors. If you were looking for a way to lose at something, then just take a look at this series. I guess you could say the Reds really dropped the ball on this one....
Obviously the talk of the series was Roy Halladay's no-hitter, and the ensuing whining perpetuated by some players... okay, it was mostly just Orlando Cabrera. The talk of the next series will be on whether or not the Phillies can make it to their third straight World Series, something that hasn't been done since the Yankees made four straight at the turn of the century. "Turn of the century" makes it sound like it was a long time ago.... it was just ten years ago.
In other, less exciting, news, that now makes it 12 straight playoff losses for the NL Central, who haven't won since the Cardinals wrapped up the 2006 World Series. The Cubs were swept in 2007 & 2008, followed by the Cardinals last season, and now the Reds. Way to go NL Central!
Obviously the talk of the series was Roy Halladay's no-hitter, and the ensuing whining perpetuated by some players... okay, it was mostly just Orlando Cabrera. The talk of the next series will be on whether or not the Phillies can make it to their third straight World Series, something that hasn't been done since the Yankees made four straight at the turn of the century. "Turn of the century" makes it sound like it was a long time ago.... it was just ten years ago.
In other, less exciting, news, that now makes it 12 straight playoff losses for the NL Central, who haven't won since the Cardinals wrapped up the 2006 World Series. The Cubs were swept in 2007 & 2008, followed by the Cardinals last season, and now the Reds. Way to go NL Central!
Yogi Monday!
Welcome to this week's Yogi Monday! We all get a case of the Mondays from time to time. There's no better way to get through a Monday than with a classic quote from one of baseball's greatest quote machines - Yogi Berra.
If the world was perfect, it wouldn't be.
Yankees Move on To ALCS
The New York Yankees became the first team to move on in the Highlander-style baseball postseason tournament by lopping off both heads of the Minnesota Twins. It's good to see, as Alex Rodriguez described them, an "underdog" move on in the postseason.
Oh wait, what's that, you say? Yes, A-Roid referred to the New York Yankees as being "David in this situation." Oh, those poor Yankees. They didn't win the division. They won't have homefield advantage throughout any playoff series (because the NL won the All Star Game this year, remember that!?!).
I don't know how they'll manage to play with the big boys... you know, with their $206 million dollar payroll, top free agents and second-best record in the American League. How ever will they match-up against the Twins ($97.5M), Rays ($71.9M) and Rangers ($55.2M) with their minuscule payroll? Somehow, and the Lord only knows, they survived the first round. We can only hope that they'll continue playing together as a team.
Oh wait, what's that, you say? Yes, A-Roid referred to the New York Yankees as being "David in this situation." Oh, those poor Yankees. They didn't win the division. They won't have homefield advantage throughout any playoff series (because the NL won the All Star Game this year, remember that!?!).
I don't know how they'll manage to play with the big boys... you know, with their $206 million dollar payroll, top free agents and second-best record in the American League. How ever will they match-up against the Twins ($97.5M), Rays ($71.9M) and Rangers ($55.2M) with their minuscule payroll? Somehow, and the Lord only knows, they survived the first round. We can only hope that they'll continue playing together as a team.
Why I Don't Pay Attention to Advanced Stats
Apparently baseball writer Bill James has devised some sort of thing called a "game score metric" that helps us gain a better understanding of a dominating pitching performance. To give you an idea of how the Game Score Metric works.... well, I'm not going to take the time to explain it. Click on this link if you really want to know what it is before going forward; however, this should tell you all you need to know - Tim Lincecum's 2-hit, 14K shutout of the Atlanta Braves in Game 1 of their NLDS scored higher than Roy Halladay's 1 BB, no-hitter the day before. That's right, once again, we see how strikeouts are overvalued by some people. An out is an out, and it doesn't matter if it is a weak grounder to the pitcher, a strikeout, or a fly ball to the left fielder. Guess what, they are still outs.
For this reason, I propose that we abandon the new ways of thinking when it comes to baseball stats (also known as sabremetrics). I know how to calculate batting average and on-base percentage. I know how to count RBIs and HRs. I don't know, or care to know, what VORP or WAR mean. You tell me that a fielder's UZR is better than another's, and I might mistakenly punch you for fear that you are speaking to me about hockey in Russian, and I don't need that kind of pressure from a Commie ice skater!
For this reason, I propose that we abandon the new ways of thinking when it comes to baseball stats (also known as sabremetrics). I know how to calculate batting average and on-base percentage. I know how to count RBIs and HRs. I don't know, or care to know, what VORP or WAR mean. You tell me that a fielder's UZR is better than another's, and I might mistakenly punch you for fear that you are speaking to me about hockey in Russian, and I don't need that kind of pressure from a Commie ice skater!
Blyleven is Awesome
I don't really have anything to add to the title of this post. Just bask in the glory that is Bert Blyleven, former MLB pitcher who has been getting major push from some in the media to be in the Hall of Fame. After seeing this picture, I couldn't agree more.
Tim Lincecum: Master of the English Language
Here's a short clip of Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum following the Giants victory over the Padres, which gave them the NL West crown. Be sure to put away the kids for the next 10 seconds....
Ah, Tim Lincecum: pitcher, Cy Young Award winner, stoner, master of the English language.
Ah, Tim Lincecum: pitcher, Cy Young Award winner, stoner, master of the English language.
Minaya, Manuel Relieved
The headline of a recent article on MLB Trade Rumors stated, "Mets Relieve Omar Minaya, Jerry Manuel Of Duties." After I was done snickering at the word "duties," all I could think was, "Yes, I am certain they are relieved."
How Good was Halladay?
The playoffs supposedly started yesterday. One of the games was the Reds visiting the Phillies. A lot of the talk prior to the game revolved around how pitcher Roy Halladay would fare in his playoff debut. We see it all the time, a star pitcher who has never been in the playoffs before then throws a mediocre game his first time out. Fairly, or unfairly, he gets labeled by that appearance until he has about 10 more games to turn it around.
Halladay..... well, he fared pretty well in his playoff debut.... by throwing just the second post-season no-hitter in history. Touche, Year of the Pitcher, touche.
However, after the game, Reds SS Orlando Cabrera said, "Another umpire, he [Halladay] wouldn’t have thrown a game like that,” Cabrera said. “He was getting every pitch. We had no chance. We had to swing."
I know a lot of people think things like that during the game, especially if you go 0-3 with a strikeout. However, Brooks Baseball has a pretty neat little graphic displaying pitch location, and for Halladay's debut, it looks a little like this:
Now, I know that it's a little difficult to see, but let me just tell you what the chart says. Basically, its says that Orlando Cabrera is a whiner with no factual basis for his comments, or, as teammate Brandon Phillips may say.... well, we won't go there.
There is exactly one called strike that was located outside of the strike zone. In fact, there were four pitches inside the strike zone that were not called strikes. There are several pitches outside of the strike zone that were swinging strikes, but the Reds have nobody but themselves to blame for that.
Big congratulations goes out to Halladay for following in the footsteps of Don Larsen, the only other person to throw a post-season no-no (and his was the perfect game in the '56 World Series). And just to point out something, an NL Central team still has not won a post-season game since Game 5 of the 2006 World Series when the Cardinals ended it against the Tigers.
Halladay..... well, he fared pretty well in his playoff debut.... by throwing just the second post-season no-hitter in history. Touche, Year of the Pitcher, touche.
However, after the game, Reds SS Orlando Cabrera said, "Another umpire, he [Halladay] wouldn’t have thrown a game like that,” Cabrera said. “He was getting every pitch. We had no chance. We had to swing."
I know a lot of people think things like that during the game, especially if you go 0-3 with a strikeout. However, Brooks Baseball has a pretty neat little graphic displaying pitch location, and for Halladay's debut, it looks a little like this:
Now, I know that it's a little difficult to see, but let me just tell you what the chart says. Basically, its says that Orlando Cabrera is a whiner with no factual basis for his comments, or, as teammate Brandon Phillips may say.... well, we won't go there.
There is exactly one called strike that was located outside of the strike zone. In fact, there were four pitches inside the strike zone that were not called strikes. There are several pitches outside of the strike zone that were swinging strikes, but the Reds have nobody but themselves to blame for that.
Big congratulations goes out to Halladay for following in the footsteps of Don Larsen, the only other person to throw a post-season no-no (and his was the perfect game in the '56 World Series). And just to point out something, an NL Central team still has not won a post-season game since Game 5 of the 2006 World Series when the Cardinals ended it against the Tigers.
Tigers Opting Not to Go After Top Pitchers
I saw an article on MLB Trade Rumors reporting that the Detroit Tigers have no interest in pursuing Cliff Lee or other top free agent pitchers this offseason. In a similar vein, the Detroit Tigers have no interest in winning their division for the next several years.
The Axe is Falling
The regular post-season sacrifice of the managers has already begun to take place all around Major League Baseball. The day after the season ended, word came out that the Pirates (John Russell), Brewers (Ken Macha) and Mets (Jerry Manuel, as well as GM Omar Minaya) would not have the same manager to start the 2011 season, joining the Marlins, Mariners, Royals, Diamondbacks and Orioles on the list of teams that fired their manager this season.
When John Russell was told he would not be returning next season, I imagine it went a little something like this...
When John Russell was told he would not be returning next season, I imagine it went a little something like this...
Cincinnati Hates the Reds
While the Cincinnati Reds are starting their (short-lived) run into the postseason, perhaps we should take a minute to explore just how much the Queen City hates its hometown team.
After the Reds clinched the NL Central title with a win over the Houston Astros, the team was celebrating in the clubhouse, and as everything else is in today's society, it was televised. Of course, a handful of players decided to celebrate as though they just had a baby by lighting a cigar in the clubhouse. The problem: Ohio has an indoor smoking ban... including Great American Ballpark. No less than five different people called the health inspector to report the violation.
Of course, it's amazing that five people called it in, because it's amazing that five people were actually paying attention to what was going on. The Reds ranked 19th in baseball for attendance this season with just over 25,000 people per game on average. To give them credit, though, attendance was actually up from a year ago when they averaged 21,500+ and ranked 26th in the league.... oh, and they were 13 games out of first place at the end of last season.
They actually had a game in mid-September where only 12,000 people showed up. It was a Monday evening. The seating capacity at GAB is 42,000+. Just how many times have the Reds sold out the stadium in their NL Central championship season? Twelve times, the Reds have played before crowds above 42,000. The only time it was in Cincy: Opening Day. Where were those other games played? In Los Angeles: 3 games; in Philadelphia: 4 games; in Seattle: 1 game; in St. Louis: 4 games. That's right, folks! The Seattle Mariners had a bigger draw to a Reds game in Seattle, than the Reds did in Cincinnati all season long.
The only logical conclusion in all of this is that Cincinnati hates the Reds... and that I'm mildly bitter that the Cardinals gave away the division this year.
After the Reds clinched the NL Central title with a win over the Houston Astros, the team was celebrating in the clubhouse, and as everything else is in today's society, it was televised. Of course, a handful of players decided to celebrate as though they just had a baby by lighting a cigar in the clubhouse. The problem: Ohio has an indoor smoking ban... including Great American Ballpark. No less than five different people called the health inspector to report the violation.
Of course, it's amazing that five people called it in, because it's amazing that five people were actually paying attention to what was going on. The Reds ranked 19th in baseball for attendance this season with just over 25,000 people per game on average. To give them credit, though, attendance was actually up from a year ago when they averaged 21,500+ and ranked 26th in the league.... oh, and they were 13 games out of first place at the end of last season.
They actually had a game in mid-September where only 12,000 people showed up. It was a Monday evening. The seating capacity at GAB is 42,000+. Just how many times have the Reds sold out the stadium in their NL Central championship season? Twelve times, the Reds have played before crowds above 42,000. The only time it was in Cincy: Opening Day. Where were those other games played? In Los Angeles: 3 games; in Philadelphia: 4 games; in Seattle: 1 game; in St. Louis: 4 games. That's right, folks! The Seattle Mariners had a bigger draw to a Reds game in Seattle, than the Reds did in Cincinnati all season long.
The only logical conclusion in all of this is that Cincinnati hates the Reds... and that I'm mildly bitter that the Cardinals gave away the division this year.
Braves Win NL Wild Card
If the Giants defeating the Padres no longer put them in the discussion as the "feel good" story of 2010, then that means the Braves now have that distinction, as this will be long time manager Bobby Cox's last chance to blow it in the postseason for the first time since 2005.
Speaking of Cox, here's your first picture. It's Bobby Cox... arguing with an umpire. I'd like to imagine that the conversation went like this:
Cox: Where do you want to go to dinner tonight?
Ump: How 'bout that new barbeque place?
Cox: You mean the one that's straight ahead?
Ump: No, the one off to the right.
I like BBQ restaurants....
For your bonus picture, here's Braves rookie Jason Heyward, whose hands are so huge that he gives "sevens" instead of "fives" in the postgame. Seriously, look at how large his hands are.
Speaking of Cox, here's your first picture. It's Bobby Cox... arguing with an umpire. I'd like to imagine that the conversation went like this:
Cox: Where do you want to go to dinner tonight?
Ump: How 'bout that new barbeque place?
Cox: You mean the one that's straight ahead?
Ump: No, the one off to the right.
I like BBQ restaurants....
For your bonus picture, here's Braves rookie Jason Heyward, whose hands are so huge that he gives "sevens" instead of "fives" in the postgame. Seriously, look at how large his hands are.
Giants Win NL West
And the posts just keep comin'...
Congratulations goes out to the San Francisco Giants on their victory today over the Padres, which both gave them the NL West crown, and denied the Padres any chance to be the "feel good" story of the 2010 baseball season.
First off, here's a picture of the Giants frolicking in the field after a win this season.
And for your bonus picture, here's Giants closer Brian Wilson with a look that may qualify him as the scariest man on the planet, possible serial killer, and frequent connoisseur of bear meat. I'm pretty sure he's up for the challenge to hunt the most dangerous game.... man....
Congratulations goes out to the San Francisco Giants on their victory today over the Padres, which both gave them the NL West crown, and denied the Padres any chance to be the "feel good" story of the 2010 baseball season.
First off, here's a picture of the Giants frolicking in the field after a win this season.
And for your bonus picture, here's Giants closer Brian Wilson with a look that may qualify him as the scariest man on the planet, possible serial killer, and frequent connoisseur of bear meat. I'm pretty sure he's up for the challenge to hunt the most dangerous game.... man....
Yankees Win AL Wild Card
Congratulations to the New York Yankees who managed to blow any chance they had of winning their division when they lost to the Boston Red Sox earlier today. You know that somewhere, a Red Sox fan is getting into a fight with a Yankees fan just to show his team's superiority before they go and root on the Patriots for the rest of the year.
For your first picture, here's Yankees 2B Robinson Cano showing off his severely messed up tongue... or it's a wad of gum. I'm not really searching for the truth here....
Bonus picture! Just to prove that their offense is superior to every other team, SS Derek Jeter points out somebody from the stands that is going to be the starting pitcher for the Yankees. Hey, why not? They put Joba Chamberlain out there.
Finally, your double bonus: Yankees C Jorge Posada got penalized 15 yards for this personal foul facemask.
For your first picture, here's Yankees 2B Robinson Cano showing off his severely messed up tongue... or it's a wad of gum. I'm not really searching for the truth here....
Bonus picture! Just to prove that their offense is superior to every other team, SS Derek Jeter points out somebody from the stands that is going to be the starting pitcher for the Yankees. Hey, why not? They put Joba Chamberlain out there.
Finally, your double bonus: Yankees C Jorge Posada got penalized 15 yards for this personal foul facemask.
Rays Win AL East
On a day that saw 4 playoff spots finally locked-in, it's time to send out congratulations from BLB... as if they care. Regardless, big congrats goes out to the Tampa Bay (no longer Devil) Rays. All I'm sayin' is that the Rays have made the playoffs 2 out of 3 years after they dropped the Devil from their name. Coincidence? I think not.
In honor of their glorious victory, here's your pictures.
First off, pitcher Chad Bradford in the midst of a rousing game of bocce ball.
And your bonus picture... whatever the heck this thing is. I think it's supposed to be their mascot, but it kind of looks like a scary old man who never trimmed his nose and ear hairs. Hmmmm....
In honor of their glorious victory, here's your pictures.
First off, pitcher Chad Bradford in the midst of a rousing game of bocce ball.
And your bonus picture... whatever the heck this thing is. I think it's supposed to be their mascot, but it kind of looks like a scary old man who never trimmed his nose and ear hairs. Hmmmm....
Of course, who could forget, the most famous Rays in franchise history:
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