Apparently Bobby Valentine is trying to force his hat into the Chicago Cubs managerial ring. Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune writes that Valentine is interested in the position once Sweet Lou has retired. Valentine joins Bob Brenly and Ryne Sandberg on the list of people who have expressed interest in the job.
Reports from baseball writers have said that Sandberg has a good shot at breaking through for his first managerial position at the big league level in Chicago, but that the Cubs may want to go with a big name that has managerial experience. Regardless, Brenly and Valentine decided to express their interest in the job, and people have decided to tell us about it.
Royals Have a Crush
MLBTradeRumors.com once again comes up with a great headline. This time: Royals Like Jeff Francoeur.
Apparently, at a 5th grade dance, the Kansas City Royals expressed to their friends that they thought Jeff Francoeur was "kinda cute" and they would like to "go out with him."
In response to a folded up note, Francoeur said something about "icky girls" and ran away.
Apparently, at a 5th grade dance, the Kansas City Royals expressed to their friends that they thought Jeff Francoeur was "kinda cute" and they would like to "go out with him."
In response to a folded up note, Francoeur said something about "icky girls" and ran away.
Touche, Matt Garza, Touche
Matt Garza, the first Tampa Bay Rays pitcher to throw a no-hitter, apparently doesn't like that I'm not crazy about mass media calling 2010 the Year of the Pitcher. He shut down a Tigers line-up that was packed with power names such as: Danny Worth, Don Kelly, and Will Rhymes.
It's about time the Rays were on the giving end of a no-no, though. They have been no-hit twice this year, with one of those games being Dallas "Get Off My Mound, A-Rod" Braden's perfect game and the other being to Arizona's Edwin "Why Do I Keep Getting Traded" Jackson. Of course, I guess the next obvious question is: how many times has a team been involved 3 no-hitters in the same season?
And your answer...
It's about time the Rays were on the giving end of a no-no, though. They have been no-hit twice this year, with one of those games being Dallas "Get Off My Mound, A-Rod" Braden's perfect game and the other being to Arizona's Edwin "Why Do I Keep Getting Traded" Jackson. Of course, I guess the next obvious question is: how many times has a team been involved 3 no-hitters in the same season?
And your answer...
- 1917 - St. Louis Browns & Chicago White Sox were both involved in three no-no's. The White Sox starter Eddie Cicotte no-hit the Browns on April 14th, and the Browns returned the favor... on CONSECUTIVE DAYS (May 5th & 6th) with Ernie Koob & Bob Groom both no-hitting the White Sox.
- 1956 - Brooklyn Dodgers were involved in three with Carl Erskine getting the best of the Giants, and Sal Maglie no-hitting the Phillies. Then, you guessed it, they were the victim of Don Larsen's perfect game in the World Series.
And just some more fun FYI for you: 1991 & 1990 each saw 7 no-hitters (a perfect game is counted as a no-hitter). Pre-1900 had one season see 8 no-hitters - 1884, but since nobody cares about the Pittsburgh Alleghenys, Columbus Buckeyes, Detroit Wolverines or Toldeo Blue Stockings, we won't count that as a candidate for Year of the Pitcher.
So, wake up, mass media! It's not the Year of the Pitcher yet. We still have two more to go before we can even consider it!
News from the Mill
As the trade deadline rapidly approaches, there are all sorts of rumors going on out there. If you kept up with baseball rumors, you still would have been somewhat surprised that Dan Haren was traded to the Angels, a team that I hadn't seen mentioned in any rumors before it happened. But, alongside all the rumors floating about, there's quite a bit of other news going on. So, in rapid-fire succession:
- Jim Edmonds essentially announced his retirement, which is a surprise to precisely nobody. Edmonds has had a borderline Hall of Fame career, but he had a hard time finding somebody that would take him this season. It definitely wasn't going to be easy next year for the 40-year old outfielder.
- In similar news, Brad Ausmus, the 41-year old catcher mostly known (to me) for his years with Astros, will take his 80 career home runs, lifetime .252 batting average, 3 Gold Gloves and 1 All Star appearance and call it a career. Wait, Brad Ausmus is still playing?
- Ben Sheets is returning to a very familiar place... the disabled list. He will join David DeJesus of the Kansas City Royals on the DL and on the list of players that should have been traded two weeks ago.
- Livan Hernandez apparently doesn't want to retire just yet. He has said that he can imagine himself playing four more years and would like to retire as a National. When asked, Nationals GM Mike Rizzo said, "Wait, Livan is still playing?"
The Wrigley Experience
On Friday, I had the opportunity to do something that I had never done before. I got to ride a bus with a bunch of old people, and a few obnoxious ones, to Wrigley Field and see a game. There is a tour company out of Lafayette, IN that sells tickets, gives you a ride to the game, drops/picks you off/up at the gate and brings you home. It was a good experience. I don't know how willing I'd be to do it again, and I'll say more about that in a bit.
We got on the bus at 9:00am and headed north. Along the way, the tour guide pointed out some things... like a cattle farm and windmills. Yes, folks, that's northern Indiana for you. We got dropped off on Waveland Ave, where there was a crowd of people ready to catch some of the batting practice home run balls that may come flying over the wall, and entered at the left field gate.
As I entered the stadium, some kid was standing there handing out shirts. I, always the eager receiver of free stuff, was quite disappointed when I actually looked at the shirt. It was a Cubs shirt.... sponsored by Budweiser. I don't drink. I especially don't drink beer, or Budweiser. I also don't wear Cubs shirts unless I am planning to working chest-deep in feces, which has never happened.
I was immediately overwhelmed by how crowed the concourse seemed to be. In reality, it wasn't all that crowded at this point, it's just really small. One of the members of my church was kind enough to give us the money to go to this game, so we thought we'd get him something at the gift shop while we were there. I thought it would be funny to get him a shot glass (after all, who doesn't want a shot glass from their pastor?!?), but we ended up getting him a Cubs hat... and immediately hiding it in my wife's purse for the duration of the game.
We made our way up to our seats. We were on the lower level, in Section 224, in the very last row. These were pretty good seats in one sense: we were in the shade. On a 90+ degree day, shade is a good thing. I also got to see why Chicago is called the Windy City because we had a fairly nice breeze the entire game (which was not so nice when it helped a couple of balls go over the fence). The major downside to our seats had to have been that there was a slightly obstructed view. If there was a left-handed hitter in the box, I couldn't see him. Not that there's a lot of lefties I actually care to see...
As for the game itself.... eh.... I have seen the Cardinals play a long time. I've watched some bad Cardinal teams, but this was the most lackluster performance that I have ever seen in my life. I've seen apathetic little leaguers play a more competitive game than this. I knew it was going to be a rough outing as soon as I saw Suppan was the starting pitcher. To put it bluntly, Suppan sucks. I like the guy. He was an integral part of the 2006 World Series team, but he has just been awful this season, and I don't even think that Duncan can fix him. That's not a good sign for a pitcher.
The Cards went down quietly in the 1st, and the Cubbies led off the game with a home run to right. The rest of the game was pretty much a droning blur from a Cardinal fan perspective. Perhaps the play the epitomized the game for me was a pop-up in the later innings. At this point in the game it is already 4-0, thanks to three dingers. There's two outs, and a runner on second. The batter pops one up. This bad boy was hanging in the air for a good ten minutes before it decided to come down. It couldn't have been more than 20 feet away from home plate in fair territory.
LaRue goes out, Suppan comes in, and Lopez comes in from third. About three second before it drops, all three players realize that they are just standing there looking at one another. LaRue tries to dive for the ball, which couldn't have been more than 5 feet away from Suppan, but he misses, and the runner scores from second. It was horrible.
We were sitting in a place where we could see the WGN broadcast, and they showed LaRussa repeatedly slamming shut the door on the bullpen phone. I realize that they had a rough, extra inning game the day before, but it was just a terrible performance by the Cardinals all around. There were several defensive mistakes (besides the dropped pop-up), the hitters couldn't piece anything together, and the pitching was terrible until the bullpen came into the game.
As I said above, it was a good experience, but I don't know if I would take the bus again. Not because I didn't like the bus, but because seeing all the different things in Chicago as we drove through made me want to spend some time in the Windy City to take in all the sights. When you go on the bus, you've got a schedule to maintain, and you don't have the freedom to explore the city and see the sights. If I just wanted to see a game, then I would definitely do it again.
We got on the bus at 9:00am and headed north. Along the way, the tour guide pointed out some things... like a cattle farm and windmills. Yes, folks, that's northern Indiana for you. We got dropped off on Waveland Ave, where there was a crowd of people ready to catch some of the batting practice home run balls that may come flying over the wall, and entered at the left field gate.
As I entered the stadium, some kid was standing there handing out shirts. I, always the eager receiver of free stuff, was quite disappointed when I actually looked at the shirt. It was a Cubs shirt.... sponsored by Budweiser. I don't drink. I especially don't drink beer, or Budweiser. I also don't wear Cubs shirts unless I am planning to working chest-deep in feces, which has never happened.
I was immediately overwhelmed by how crowed the concourse seemed to be. In reality, it wasn't all that crowded at this point, it's just really small. One of the members of my church was kind enough to give us the money to go to this game, so we thought we'd get him something at the gift shop while we were there. I thought it would be funny to get him a shot glass (after all, who doesn't want a shot glass from their pastor?!?), but we ended up getting him a Cubs hat... and immediately hiding it in my wife's purse for the duration of the game.
We made our way up to our seats. We were on the lower level, in Section 224, in the very last row. These were pretty good seats in one sense: we were in the shade. On a 90+ degree day, shade is a good thing. I also got to see why Chicago is called the Windy City because we had a fairly nice breeze the entire game (which was not so nice when it helped a couple of balls go over the fence). The major downside to our seats had to have been that there was a slightly obstructed view. If there was a left-handed hitter in the box, I couldn't see him. Not that there's a lot of lefties I actually care to see...
As for the game itself.... eh.... I have seen the Cardinals play a long time. I've watched some bad Cardinal teams, but this was the most lackluster performance that I have ever seen in my life. I've seen apathetic little leaguers play a more competitive game than this. I knew it was going to be a rough outing as soon as I saw Suppan was the starting pitcher. To put it bluntly, Suppan sucks. I like the guy. He was an integral part of the 2006 World Series team, but he has just been awful this season, and I don't even think that Duncan can fix him. That's not a good sign for a pitcher.
The Cards went down quietly in the 1st, and the Cubbies led off the game with a home run to right. The rest of the game was pretty much a droning blur from a Cardinal fan perspective. Perhaps the play the epitomized the game for me was a pop-up in the later innings. At this point in the game it is already 4-0, thanks to three dingers. There's two outs, and a runner on second. The batter pops one up. This bad boy was hanging in the air for a good ten minutes before it decided to come down. It couldn't have been more than 20 feet away from home plate in fair territory.
LaRue goes out, Suppan comes in, and Lopez comes in from third. About three second before it drops, all three players realize that they are just standing there looking at one another. LaRue tries to dive for the ball, which couldn't have been more than 5 feet away from Suppan, but he misses, and the runner scores from second. It was horrible.
We were sitting in a place where we could see the WGN broadcast, and they showed LaRussa repeatedly slamming shut the door on the bullpen phone. I realize that they had a rough, extra inning game the day before, but it was just a terrible performance by the Cardinals all around. There were several defensive mistakes (besides the dropped pop-up), the hitters couldn't piece anything together, and the pitching was terrible until the bullpen came into the game.
As I said above, it was a good experience, but I don't know if I would take the bus again. Not because I didn't like the bus, but because seeing all the different things in Chicago as we drove through made me want to spend some time in the Windy City to take in all the sights. When you go on the bus, you've got a schedule to maintain, and you don't have the freedom to explore the city and see the sights. If I just wanted to see a game, then I would definitely do it again.
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.
Half the lies they tell about me aren't true.
Sweet Lou Retiring at Season's End
For those surprised to hear on Tuesday that Lou Piniella announced that he will retire at the conclusion of the season, where have you been? If you've been mildly following the Cubs this season, you are pretty sure that Hendry is going to get fired and that Lou had basically given up on the season. Personally, I think it was a genius strategic move by Piniella. They aren't going to fire him during the season now because he's out of there anyway.
The Cubbies responded by putting a whoppin' on the Astros. They were really excited about it for a minute, then they realized that it was just the Astros.
P.S. - Point of personal privilege (which seems odd since it's my blog anyway), as this post is getting published on the blog, I am sitting at my first game in Wrigley Field, and the Cardinals are destroying the Cubs 22-3 in the third inning.... Well, I can hope.
The Cubbies responded by putting a whoppin' on the Astros. They were really excited about it for a minute, then they realized that it was just the Astros.
P.S. - Point of personal privilege (which seems odd since it's my blog anyway), as this post is getting published on the blog, I am sitting at my first game in Wrigley Field, and the Cardinals are destroying the Cubs 22-3 in the third inning.... Well, I can hope.
Manny Injured in Cross Species Fight
I feel like I've hit a gold mine lately in poor headlines! Today's: Calf to Sideline Manny for at Least Three Weeks.
That's right, folks. After his much hype cross species MMA fight, Manny Ramirez is going to be sidelined for at least three weeks. Rump Roast, the five week old calf from Pasadena, California, answered the '80's question "Who's the Boss?" by taking down Manny in record time of 5.3 seconds.
When asked what happened, Manny replied, "Bulls*%t!!! No, literally, man. He pooped and it threw me off my game. Next thing I knew, he was all over me and I was done."
That's right, folks. After his much hype cross species MMA fight, Manny Ramirez is going to be sidelined for at least three weeks. Rump Roast, the five week old calf from Pasadena, California, answered the '80's question "Who's the Boss?" by taking down Manny in record time of 5.3 seconds.
When asked what happened, Manny replied, "Bulls*%t!!! No, literally, man. He pooped and it threw me off my game. Next thing I knew, he was all over me and I was done."
Mattingly Shows Why Yanks Hired Girardi
The Dodgers, no strangers to odd finishes this season, added another unique way to lose to their growing list this season. You may remember their Memorial Day game against the Diamondbacks that ended in a "balk-off." You may even remember their unfortunate demise at the hands of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim when Russell Martin was thrown out at second seconds before the tying run would have scored. Add to that list, Rule #8.06. What is Rule #8.06, you ask?
Credit goes to Giants manager Bruce Bochy, who caught the amateur's blunder and brought it to the attention of the umpires. Congratulations, Dodgers! You suck!
A professional league shall adopt the following rule pertaining to the visit of the manager or coach to the pitcher:
(a) This rule limits the number of trips a manager or coach may make to any one pitcher in any one inning;
Now that you have diligently studied and memorized that rule, you won't make the same mistake as former major league baseball player, and current hitting coach for the Dodgers, Don Mattingly (who is apparently an @$$, based on accounts relayed to me by a former co-worker who played ball with Mattingly's son in high school). Mattingly stepped off the mound, was asked a question by 1B James Loney, turned around and stepped back onto the dirt, constituting a second visit to the mound. Dodgers closer Jonathan Broxton had to be removed from the game, and George Sherrill came in without any time to do a proper warm-up in the bullpen.(b) A second trip to the same pitcher in the same inning will cause this pitcher's automatic removal;(c) The manager or coach is prohibited from making a second visit to the mound while the same batter is at bat, but(d) if a pinch-hitter is substituted for this batter, the manager or coach may make a second visit to the mound, but must remove the pitcher.A manager or coach is considered to have concluded his visit to the mound when he leaves the 18-foot circle surrounding the pitcher's rubber.
Credit goes to Giants manager Bruce Bochy, who caught the amateur's blunder and brought it to the attention of the umpires. Congratulations, Dodgers! You suck!
Best Headline EVER!!!
MLB Trade Rumors unintentionally came up with the best headline ever the other day. I wish I was making this up, but I'm not:
Padres Still Eyeing Hart, May Need Arms Too
There are so many directions that I could go with this headline, but I think I would just taint your imagination by doing it. So, I'll let y'all give it a shot! Put your story in the comments section, keep it relatively short, and the best one will end up on BLB next week.
Padres Still Eyeing Hart, May Need Arms Too
There are so many directions that I could go with this headline, but I think I would just taint your imagination by doing it. So, I'll let y'all give it a shot! Put your story in the comments section, keep it relatively short, and the best one will end up on BLB next week.
Orioles Like the Free Baseball
Here's a fun statistical oddity for you to share around the water cooler tomorrow morning. The Baltimore Orioles have a .700 winning percentage when their games go longer than 9 innings. That's right, the Orioles are 7-3 in games that are decided in extra innings this season... and 30-63 overall.
In fact, their winning percentage as a whole this season is .323 (as of 2pm EST on Wednesday). It is almost the exact inverse of their winning percentage in extra inning games.
Perhaps what may surprise you the most is that they are also 15-13 in games decided by one run. In other words, the Orioles are 30 runs allowed away from being 15-88 on the season. That's bad. That's really bad.
In other fun team stats, the Royals are actually the best extra-inning team in baseball with a 7-2 record. The Reds are the only other teams with 7 extra inning wins. And, in case you were wondering, Florida (1-5) and Washington (1-6) are the worst extra inning teams.
That is all.
In fact, their winning percentage as a whole this season is .323 (as of 2pm EST on Wednesday). It is almost the exact inverse of their winning percentage in extra inning games.
Perhaps what may surprise you the most is that they are also 15-13 in games decided by one run. In other words, the Orioles are 30 runs allowed away from being 15-88 on the season. That's bad. That's really bad.
In other fun team stats, the Royals are actually the best extra-inning team in baseball with a 7-2 record. The Reds are the only other teams with 7 extra inning wins. And, in case you were wondering, Florida (1-5) and Washington (1-6) are the worst extra inning teams.
That is all.
Major League Manager Dies
James Gammon, best known for playing the manager for the Indians in Major League, passed away this week. Initially, people thought he was replaying the "excuses" scene from Major League 2, but then they realized that he really was having a heart attack, not just reliving the good times of his career.
McCarver's Continued Descent Into Madness
Baseball announcer, and former player, Tim McCarver has continued his slow descent into madness. Here is a direct quote from McCarver during a Yankees-Rays game earlier this season (thanks to Deadspin for the transcription).
When an imaginary BLB reporter went to ask the Yankees' front office about McCarver's quote, he was never seen again.
You remember some of those despotic leaders in World War II, primarily in Russia and Germany, where they used to take those pictures that they had ... taken of former generals who were no longer alive, they had shot 'em. They would airbrush the pictures, and airbrushed the generals out of the pictures. In a sense, that's what the Yankees have done with Joe Torre. They have airbrushed his legacy. I mean, there's no sign of Joe Torre at the stadium. And, that's ridiculous. I don't understand it.That's right, McCarver compared the Yankees to WWII-era Russia and Germany. I guess we can tell where McCarver stands on the Yankees-Red Sox-evil empire feud.
When an imaginary BLB reporter went to ask the Yankees' front office about McCarver's quote, he was never seen again.
Cruz Too Hungry to Play Ball
The Rangers and Tigers played a mini-marathon on Monday. In a game that ended nearly 5 hours after the first pitch, saw 13 different pitchers and lasted for 14 innings, the Rangers bested the Tigers 8-6 on Nelson Cruz's 12th home run of the season, a two-run shot off of Enrique Gonzalez.
When asked about his game-winning dinger, Cruz said, "You know, I just got tired of playing. My stomach was growling, and it was beginning to annoy me. So, I thought I'd just end it right there."
After touching home, Cruz was disappointed that the rest of the team wasn't there to jump around him. In his hunger-fatigue, he forgot that it wasn't a walk-off shot because they were the visiting team.
When asked about his game-winning dinger, Cruz said, "You know, I just got tired of playing. My stomach was growling, and it was beginning to annoy me. So, I thought I'd just end it right there."
After touching home, Cruz was disappointed that the rest of the team wasn't there to jump around him. In his hunger-fatigue, he forgot that it wasn't a walk-off shot because they were the visiting team.
Epic MacPhail
Orioles' president of baseball operations Andy MacPhail was quoted as saying that no player is considered untouchable at this point in the season. While the Orioles do have a good core of young talent, they're awful. He also said that it would be difficult to give up their young talent, even if it was for a big bat. Once the statement was released, there was immediate rejoicing in the Orioles clubhouse.
We at BLB are still trying to determine if there is any truth to the rumor that the Orioles offered their entire roster for Albert Pujols. The Cardinals, not seeing it as a fair trade on their end, immediately rejected the offer.
We at BLB are still trying to determine if there is any truth to the rumor that the Orioles offered their entire roster for Albert Pujols. The Cardinals, not seeing it as a fair trade on their end, immediately rejected the offer.
Red Sox Cross the Line
It has been reported that the Red Sox have crossed the salary line and will be charged 22.5% for every dollar over $170 million for the luxury tax.
In other shocking news, the sky is still blue.
In other shocking news, the sky is still blue.
Players Want to be Scouted Still
Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times tweeted that the Tokyo Giants had a scout at the Dodgers-Cardinals game at Busch Stadium on Friday. When asked what he was doing there, the scout said a lot of things in Japanese that couldn't be translated, but probably was something like, "We like to look for new talent to improve our league. We hear there are fantastic players in this series, so we wanted to come out and see what they can do. We hear that Garrett Anderson may be looking for a new location because his talents haven't kept up with the professional baseball of the United States. That is exactly the type of big name we are looking for."
When he heard that the Tokyo Giants had a scout in the stands, Dodger OF Manny Ramirez seemed quite interested. "I never thought about playing in Japan. That could be pretty cool. I'm sure they'd give me another $20 million contract because I'm certainly not getting another one over here!"
When he heard that the Tokyo Giants had a scout in the stands, Dodger OF Manny Ramirez seemed quite interested. "I never thought about playing in Japan. That could be pretty cool. I'm sure they'd give me another $20 million contract because I'm certainly not getting another one over here!"
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.
Even Napoleon had his Watergate.
NL West Midseason Review
And the grand finale....
NL WEST
San Diego Padres (51-37)
Next to the Reds, the Padres are the biggest surprise in baseball so far this season. A team that was simply awful, who before the season even began was the subject of trade rumors, is now leading what is probably going to be the best race in baseball come September. They have far surpassed all expectations, and that will be a great consolation prize when the Rockies end up winning the division.
Colorado Rockies (49-39)
After a rough start to the season, the Rockies are finally coming around. Ubald-y has been incredible so far this season, but no doubt he will come back down to earth and be overtaken by Adam Wainwright as the Cy Young favorite. It's very tough for me to say good things about the Rockies since they beat down the Cardinals in their recent series. However, I will say this: I was once a Rockie in my Pony League days, and the dark purple didn't look too bad on me.
Los Angeles Dodgers (49-39)
The Dodgers are a team in need of pitching, which is surprising given how good their pitching was last season. If they get hot, they'll have a chance of winning the division, but most likely, Manny Ramirez will go crazy before that happens and they'll fall off the map.
San Francisco Giants (47-41)
Much like the Toronto Blue Jays, the Giants are a good team that is getting buried by better teams... except they really are a good team. Okay, they are a pretty good pitching staff that occasionally gets some offensive support, how's that? I don't expect them to be around at the end of the season, but with quality pitching, anything is possible.
Arizona Diamondbacks (34-55)
Not much to say here. At least the Pirates play in the NL, so the D-backs aren't the worst team in the league.
NL WEST
San Diego Padres (51-37)
Next to the Reds, the Padres are the biggest surprise in baseball so far this season. A team that was simply awful, who before the season even began was the subject of trade rumors, is now leading what is probably going to be the best race in baseball come September. They have far surpassed all expectations, and that will be a great consolation prize when the Rockies end up winning the division.
Colorado Rockies (49-39)
After a rough start to the season, the Rockies are finally coming around. Ubald-y has been incredible so far this season, but no doubt he will come back down to earth and be overtaken by Adam Wainwright as the Cy Young favorite. It's very tough for me to say good things about the Rockies since they beat down the Cardinals in their recent series. However, I will say this: I was once a Rockie in my Pony League days, and the dark purple didn't look too bad on me.
Los Angeles Dodgers (49-39)
The Dodgers are a team in need of pitching, which is surprising given how good their pitching was last season. If they get hot, they'll have a chance of winning the division, but most likely, Manny Ramirez will go crazy before that happens and they'll fall off the map.
San Francisco Giants (47-41)
Much like the Toronto Blue Jays, the Giants are a good team that is getting buried by better teams... except they really are a good team. Okay, they are a pretty good pitching staff that occasionally gets some offensive support, how's that? I don't expect them to be around at the end of the season, but with quality pitching, anything is possible.
Arizona Diamondbacks (34-55)
Not much to say here. At least the Pirates play in the NL, so the D-backs aren't the worst team in the league.
Royals, Red Sox Discuss Religion
The Royals and Red Sox have had a few come to DeJesus moments this season. The two teams have had discussions revolving around Royals outfield David DeJesus, who may be one of the premier outfielders available on the trade market over the next couple of weeks.
Reportedly, the Royals have been scouting the Red Sox's farm system looking for anybody that could possibly be worth trading for the career average line of .290/8/50 (BA/HR/RBI). No word yet on if the talks have come to a satisfying conclusion.
Reportedly, the Royals have been scouting the Red Sox's farm system looking for anybody that could possibly be worth trading for the career average line of .290/8/50 (BA/HR/RBI). No word yet on if the talks have come to a satisfying conclusion.
AL West Midseason Review
As we get further and further away from the All Star break, these reviews are becoming less and less relevant, which is saying a lot because they weren't all that relevant in the first place. Luckily, the division in today's review are smaller... at least one of them is.
AL West
Texas Rangers (50-38)
The Texas Rangers are in a relatively familiar situation. They have put together a good first half, thanks in no small part to a torrid June by OF Josh Hamilton. The main question that remains for a team that just acquired one of the top trade prospects in Cliff Lee is - can they keep it up? (That's what she said!) Arlington gets very hot in the summer, and that will take its toll on the team, just like it does every single year. Can they still play well when it gets to mid-August, and will the Angels still be underachieving? If the answer to both of those questions is "yes," then the Rangers will find themselves bowing out to the Yankees in the playoffs.
Los Angeles Angels (47-44)
I think it is fair to say that the Angels have been slightly disappointing so far this season. After losing Vlad and Lackey in the offseason, I don't think the expectations were as high as they have been in recent years, but I think most people would have put the Angels closer to the top than where they sit right now. Where's Doc Brown and those crazy angelic beings when they need them?
Oakland A's (43-46)
The A's have performed just about as well as can be expected. Nobody thought they were going to be great, but nobody thought they were going to be awful. They are just kind of... there.
Seattle Mariners (35-53)
If the question for the offseason was "Who would be the biggest bust this year?" I'm not sure anybody would have picked the Mariners. In fact, Seattle was the popular pick to win the West in the offseason. With their offseason acquisition of Cliff Lee, they were supposed to have the best 1-2 punch in baseball (in spite of the fact that the Cardinals clearly already had it!). I have to admit, though, I bought into it myself and picked them to win the division. Epic fail.
AL West
Texas Rangers (50-38)
The Texas Rangers are in a relatively familiar situation. They have put together a good first half, thanks in no small part to a torrid June by OF Josh Hamilton. The main question that remains for a team that just acquired one of the top trade prospects in Cliff Lee is - can they keep it up? (That's what she said!) Arlington gets very hot in the summer, and that will take its toll on the team, just like it does every single year. Can they still play well when it gets to mid-August, and will the Angels still be underachieving? If the answer to both of those questions is "yes," then the Rangers will find themselves bowing out to the Yankees in the playoffs.
Los Angeles Angels (47-44)
I think it is fair to say that the Angels have been slightly disappointing so far this season. After losing Vlad and Lackey in the offseason, I don't think the expectations were as high as they have been in recent years, but I think most people would have put the Angels closer to the top than where they sit right now. Where's Doc Brown and those crazy angelic beings when they need them?
Oakland A's (43-46)
The A's have performed just about as well as can be expected. Nobody thought they were going to be great, but nobody thought they were going to be awful. They are just kind of... there.
Seattle Mariners (35-53)
If the question for the offseason was "Who would be the biggest bust this year?" I'm not sure anybody would have picked the Mariners. In fact, Seattle was the popular pick to win the West in the offseason. With their offseason acquisition of Cliff Lee, they were supposed to have the best 1-2 punch in baseball (in spite of the fact that the Cardinals clearly already had it!). I have to admit, though, I bought into it myself and picked them to win the division. Epic fail.
Dunn Losing Interest in Washington?
Apparently, Adam Dunn is becoming frustrated by a lack of urgency from the Washington Nationals to work out an extension that would keep him with the team beyond this season.
Okay, let me get this straight. Dunn doesn't have a long-term contract that will require him to continue playing for the Washington Nationals, and he's frustrated by it? Maybe he just doesn't understand how this works.
Okay, Mr. Dunn, if you have a long-term contract, that means that you continue playing in Washington D.C., as a baseball player, for a longer period of time than just the end of this season. I don't see how this is a bad thing.
NL Central Midseason Review
And now for the only division that really matters....
NL Central
Cincinnati Reds (49-41)
The Reds have been one of the biggest surprises in baseball this year. When they briefly took over first play in May, people everywhere forgot that it was May and suddenly thought it was 1975 once again. But, this team is not the Big Red machine, and Dusty Baker is not Sparky Anderson. Tell you what Reds fans. Enjoy it while you can.
St. Louis Cardinals (47-41)
In spite of the fact that the Cardinals have been at or near the top of the division all season long, overall, they have underperformed to this point in the season. Pujols is still at the top of the league in several statistical categories, but he is having one of the worst seasons of his career (which isn't fair given the lofty standards he has set). Their pitching staff still has three of the top pitchers in the league, and they are a scary offensive team when everybody is playing up to their potential. I fully expect them to be running away with the division by the end of August.
Milwaukee Brewers (40-49)
It's hard to say the Brewers are underachieving so far this season, even though many would have thought that they would be better than they've shown in the first half. Offensively, they are stacked. The emergence of RF Hart as a power hitter has only improved their offense. The problem is their pitching... they don't have any. When you don't have pitching, you aren't going to win in the majors.
Chicago Cubs (39-50)
I was at a concert last week, wearing my Pujols jersey, when somebody started chanting, "Here we go, Cubbies, here we go." He was clearly drunk. The only place the Cubs are going is downhill. Strangely enough, this is mostly the same team that won back-to-back division titles just two years ago. As Cub fans know, this team is cyclical through the years, and they are on their way down again.
Houston Astros (36-53)
About the only positive thing the Astros can say about this season is that they play in the same division as the Pirates... and that they have a really nice park. But, seriously, Houston, what's the deal with a hill at the center field wall?
Pittsburgh Pirates (30-58)
I saw a Pirates game last season in September against the Padres. There couldn't have been more than 5,000 people at that game. It's not going to be that much better this season, Pirate fans. On the bright side, you aren't going to get your hopes dashed upon the rocks like fans of other franchises that will simply fall apart. Yeah, I'm talking to you, Reds fans!
NL Central
Cincinnati Reds (49-41)
The Reds have been one of the biggest surprises in baseball this year. When they briefly took over first play in May, people everywhere forgot that it was May and suddenly thought it was 1975 once again. But, this team is not the Big Red machine, and Dusty Baker is not Sparky Anderson. Tell you what Reds fans. Enjoy it while you can.
St. Louis Cardinals (47-41)
In spite of the fact that the Cardinals have been at or near the top of the division all season long, overall, they have underperformed to this point in the season. Pujols is still at the top of the league in several statistical categories, but he is having one of the worst seasons of his career (which isn't fair given the lofty standards he has set). Their pitching staff still has three of the top pitchers in the league, and they are a scary offensive team when everybody is playing up to their potential. I fully expect them to be running away with the division by the end of August.
Milwaukee Brewers (40-49)
It's hard to say the Brewers are underachieving so far this season, even though many would have thought that they would be better than they've shown in the first half. Offensively, they are stacked. The emergence of RF Hart as a power hitter has only improved their offense. The problem is their pitching... they don't have any. When you don't have pitching, you aren't going to win in the majors.
Chicago Cubs (39-50)
I was at a concert last week, wearing my Pujols jersey, when somebody started chanting, "Here we go, Cubbies, here we go." He was clearly drunk. The only place the Cubs are going is downhill. Strangely enough, this is mostly the same team that won back-to-back division titles just two years ago. As Cub fans know, this team is cyclical through the years, and they are on their way down again.
Houston Astros (36-53)
About the only positive thing the Astros can say about this season is that they play in the same division as the Pirates... and that they have a really nice park. But, seriously, Houston, what's the deal with a hill at the center field wall?
Pittsburgh Pirates (30-58)
I saw a Pirates game last season in September against the Padres. There couldn't have been more than 5,000 people at that game. It's not going to be that much better this season, Pirate fans. On the bright side, you aren't going to get your hopes dashed upon the rocks like fans of other franchises that will simply fall apart. Yeah, I'm talking to you, Reds fans!
Yesterday's Treasure is Today's Outrighted Player
MLB Trade Rumors (who is increasingly becoming a fantastic source for BLB) reported that the Dodgers have put George Sherrill on outright waivers this week. For those with a bad memory, or who just don't care, Sherrill was the closer for the Orioles who was highly coveted about this time last year, and ended the 2009 campaign with the Dodgers.
To be blunt, Sherrill has lived up to his girly last name on the mound for the Dodgers, who now want nothing to do with him. It reminds me of the time that I made lamb for dinner one night and it was fantastic. I left it on the counter overnight and had it for lunch the next day. Consequently, I spent the rest of the evening in the bathroom. Yup, exactly like that time.
To be blunt, Sherrill has lived up to his girly last name on the mound for the Dodgers, who now want nothing to do with him. It reminds me of the time that I made lamb for dinner one night and it was fantastic. I left it on the counter overnight and had it for lunch the next day. Consequently, I spent the rest of the evening in the bathroom. Yup, exactly like that time.
AL Central Midseason Review
Today, we get to look at who is over/under/achieving in the Central Divisions.
AL Central
Chicago White Sox (49-38)
The White Sox were probably the one team that didn't want the All Star break to happen. They went into the break with an 8-game winning streak, and were beginning to relish being the talk of Chi-town. We'll see if Ozzie can keep them playing with his typical rants and blue-streaks as the season progresses.
Detroit Tigers (48-38)
The Tigers have managed to put together a very good first half of the season, led by MVP candidate Miguel Cabrera. Jim Leyland still looks pretty cranky, so it is a definite possibility that the Tigers will still be in it come October.
Minnesota Twins (46-42)
The Minnesota Twins have opened their new stadium with a whimper in the first half of the 2010 campaign. Mauer has not been nearly as productive as one would expect from a reigning MVP who just got a huge contract. They always have a tendency to be there at the end of the season, but I wouldn't hold my breath, Twins fans.
Kansas City Royals (39-49)
The Royals have not been nearly as bad as I would have thought at the beginning of the season. They're still bad, but not as bad. They may win a mildly respectable 70 games this season. Not to mention, they'll be among the talk of the league until the trade deadline at the end of the month.
Cleveland Indians (34-54)
Hmmm... perhaps I should've saved the Royals review for the Indians, except the Indians probably are just as bad as I would have thought at the beginning of the season. On the bright side Cleveland, you do have the Caval.... oh, wait... You still have Dan Gilbert's promise of a ring before Lebron... That's comforting. Did anybody else think it was ironic that the Rays beat the Indians the same night Lebron announced that he was going to Miami? Chalk one up for conspiracy-theorist fans everywhere!
AL Central
Chicago White Sox (49-38)
The White Sox were probably the one team that didn't want the All Star break to happen. They went into the break with an 8-game winning streak, and were beginning to relish being the talk of Chi-town. We'll see if Ozzie can keep them playing with his typical rants and blue-streaks as the season progresses.
Detroit Tigers (48-38)
The Tigers have managed to put together a very good first half of the season, led by MVP candidate Miguel Cabrera. Jim Leyland still looks pretty cranky, so it is a definite possibility that the Tigers will still be in it come October.
Minnesota Twins (46-42)
The Minnesota Twins have opened their new stadium with a whimper in the first half of the 2010 campaign. Mauer has not been nearly as productive as one would expect from a reigning MVP who just got a huge contract. They always have a tendency to be there at the end of the season, but I wouldn't hold my breath, Twins fans.
Kansas City Royals (39-49)
The Royals have not been nearly as bad as I would have thought at the beginning of the season. They're still bad, but not as bad. They may win a mildly respectable 70 games this season. Not to mention, they'll be among the talk of the league until the trade deadline at the end of the month.
Cleveland Indians (34-54)
Hmmm... perhaps I should've saved the Royals review for the Indians, except the Indians probably are just as bad as I would have thought at the beginning of the season. On the bright side Cleveland, you do have the Caval.... oh, wait... You still have Dan Gilbert's promise of a ring before Lebron... That's comforting. Did anybody else think it was ironic that the Rays beat the Indians the same night Lebron announced that he was going to Miami? Chalk one up for conspiracy-theorist fans everywhere!
Kip Wells is on the Comeback Trail!!!
MLB Trade Rumors reported that the long-awaited comeback by pitcher Kip Wells is underway! I know, I know, who the heck is Kip Wells? Wells is perhaps best remembered (at least in my book) less than successful 2007 campaign with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he went 7-17 in spite of a sparkling 5.70 ERA. If only the offense gave him more run support.
Wells will be pitching with the Long Island Ducks of the Atlantic League of "Professional" Baseball where he will be able to face top-notch competition from the Bridgeport Bluefish, Lancaster Barnstormers and Southern Maryland Blue Crabs.
Ducks manager, Dave LaPoint, who apparently has never heard of Baseball-Reference.com, said, "We are extremely happy to add Kip... to our pitching staff. [He has] proven to be successful at the big league level."
Let's face it, with a name like "Kip," he doesn't have much of a chance. At least he's only getting beat up on the mound these days... presumably...
Wells will be pitching with the Long Island Ducks of the Atlantic League of "Professional" Baseball where he will be able to face top-notch competition from the Bridgeport Bluefish, Lancaster Barnstormers and Southern Maryland Blue Crabs.
Ducks manager, Dave LaPoint, who apparently has never heard of Baseball-Reference.com, said, "We are extremely happy to add Kip... to our pitching staff. [He has] proven to be successful at the big league level."
Let's face it, with a name like "Kip," he doesn't have much of a chance. At least he's only getting beat up on the mound these days... presumably...
NL East Midseason Review
Our midseason reviews continue with the NL East this evening.
NL EAST
Atlanta Braves (52-36)
The Atlanta Braves have surprised a lot of people so far this season, jumping out to the best record in the NL for the first half of the year. A lot of questions will circulate in the second half about whether or not they can maintain their success, or if they will return to their 9-game losing streak days from earlier this season. Rookie Jason Heyward has performed well to this point, and will look to continue his ROY campaign.
New York Mets (48-40)
In spite being the NL East version of the Red Sox (i.e. - the team dealing with a lot of injury questions), the Mets have managed to put together a pretty good first half. Of course, given their ability to fall totally apart at the end of the season, don't expect much more than this, Mets fans.
Philadelphia Phillies (47-40)
The reigning two-time NL Champs have struggled at times this season, and find themselves looking up at two teams as we close out the first half of the season. Should the good people of Philadelphia worry? Probably not. The Mets will inevitably collapse, and the Braves may not be able to hold up late in the season. Don't worry, Philadelphia, you still have Roy Halladay... you know, the one who is supposed to destroy NL bats with his mere thoughts. Isn't that what everybody was saying at the beginning of the season?
Florida Marlins (42-46)
The Marlins have had a minor implosion so far this season. When Freddy Gonzalez benched Hanley for a couple of games for a perceived lack of hustle, it became clear whose team roamed South Beach. Gonzalez is now looking for alternative employment, and Hanley got to play in Anaheim at the beginning of the week. Don't worry Miami, you haven't paid attention to the Marlins in a while, and there's no reason to now. Scratch that - pitcher Josh Johnson is quietly putting together a very good season, but, again, nobody is around to see it.
Washington Nationals (39-50)
Do you remember when the Nationals were relevant? People were talking about the chances that they stuck around for the Wild Card Race, and there was all kinds of excitement about Strasburg's debut. Well, that was fun. Welcome back to reality. On the bright side, the way things are shaping up, the Nationals will not be the worst team in baseball, meaning that their streak of #1 picks is in jeopardy.
NL EAST
Atlanta Braves (52-36)
The Atlanta Braves have surprised a lot of people so far this season, jumping out to the best record in the NL for the first half of the year. A lot of questions will circulate in the second half about whether or not they can maintain their success, or if they will return to their 9-game losing streak days from earlier this season. Rookie Jason Heyward has performed well to this point, and will look to continue his ROY campaign.
New York Mets (48-40)
In spite being the NL East version of the Red Sox (i.e. - the team dealing with a lot of injury questions), the Mets have managed to put together a pretty good first half. Of course, given their ability to fall totally apart at the end of the season, don't expect much more than this, Mets fans.
Philadelphia Phillies (47-40)
The reigning two-time NL Champs have struggled at times this season, and find themselves looking up at two teams as we close out the first half of the season. Should the good people of Philadelphia worry? Probably not. The Mets will inevitably collapse, and the Braves may not be able to hold up late in the season. Don't worry, Philadelphia, you still have Roy Halladay... you know, the one who is supposed to destroy NL bats with his mere thoughts. Isn't that what everybody was saying at the beginning of the season?
Florida Marlins (42-46)
The Marlins have had a minor implosion so far this season. When Freddy Gonzalez benched Hanley for a couple of games for a perceived lack of hustle, it became clear whose team roamed South Beach. Gonzalez is now looking for alternative employment, and Hanley got to play in Anaheim at the beginning of the week. Don't worry Miami, you haven't paid attention to the Marlins in a while, and there's no reason to now. Scratch that - pitcher Josh Johnson is quietly putting together a very good season, but, again, nobody is around to see it.
Washington Nationals (39-50)
Do you remember when the Nationals were relevant? People were talking about the chances that they stuck around for the Wild Card Race, and there was all kinds of excitement about Strasburg's debut. Well, that was fun. Welcome back to reality. On the bright side, the way things are shaping up, the Nationals will not be the worst team in baseball, meaning that their streak of #1 picks is in jeopardy.
AL East Midseason Review
As I write and schedule this series on midseason grades, it is the Monday of the All Star Break. I have things scheduled already, and I'm waaaay too lazy to adjust all of that business. So, here's your midseason review a little past the midseason point.
AL EAST
New York Yankees (56-32)
Everybody expected the defending World Series champs to be at the top of the heap, and, so far, they have not disappointed. The Yankees have the best record in baseball at the break. Not much to complain about in the Bronx... not that the facts will keep people happy if they don't win the Series again this season.
Tampa Bay Rays (54-34)
The Rays have bounced back from a disappointing 2009 by holding first place for a majority of the first half of the season... that and a quarter will get them a quarter and the opportunity to lose two of their best players to free agency after the season.
Boston Red Sox (51-37)
The Red Sox have more people wounded this season than the US Army after the first Gulf War. The chances of them being able to outpace the Yankees or Rays for the rest of the season are pretty slim. On the bright side, they are only slightly severely overpaying their DH so far this season.
Toronto Blue Jays (44-45)
It must be hard to be the Blue Jays. Nobody seems to know how good they are because they are in the same division as the Red Sox, Rays and Yankees. On the other hand, they aren't as good as people might think. It's a strange paradox.
Baltimore Orioles (29-59)
The Orioles are... well... the Orioles once again. They're awful, there's just no way around it. At this rate, you have to wonder if the Ravens would have an easier time scoring.
AL EAST
New York Yankees (56-32)
Everybody expected the defending World Series champs to be at the top of the heap, and, so far, they have not disappointed. The Yankees have the best record in baseball at the break. Not much to complain about in the Bronx... not that the facts will keep people happy if they don't win the Series again this season.
Tampa Bay Rays (54-34)
The Rays have bounced back from a disappointing 2009 by holding first place for a majority of the first half of the season... that and a quarter will get them a quarter and the opportunity to lose two of their best players to free agency after the season.
Boston Red Sox (51-37)
The Red Sox have more people wounded this season than the US Army after the first Gulf War. The chances of them being able to outpace the Yankees or Rays for the rest of the season are pretty slim. On the bright side, they are only slightly severely overpaying their DH so far this season.
Toronto Blue Jays (44-45)
It must be hard to be the Blue Jays. Nobody seems to know how good they are because they are in the same division as the Red Sox, Rays and Yankees. On the other hand, they aren't as good as people might think. It's a strange paradox.
Baltimore Orioles (29-59)
The Orioles are... well... the Orioles once again. They're awful, there's just no way around it. At this rate, you have to wonder if the Ravens would have an easier time scoring.
Ortiz Would Like to Remain a Red Sox
Because, apparently, it's the All Star break and there was nothing else to write about this week, somebody asked David Ortiz, DH extraordinaire for the Boston Red Sox, if he would like to finish his career as a Red Sox.
The Red Sox have a $12.5 million option on Big Papi for the 2011 season, and will have to think long and hard if they want to pay that much for a "slugger" who is on a rapid rate of decline since losing the magical bat of Manny Ramirez.
When asked in a made-up poll, Yankees fans everywhere insisted that the Red Sox honor Papi's request.
The Red Sox have a $12.5 million option on Big Papi for the 2011 season, and will have to think long and hard if they want to pay that much for a "slugger" who is on a rapid rate of decline since losing the magical bat of Manny Ramirez.
When asked in a made-up poll, Yankees fans everywhere insisted that the Red Sox honor Papi's request.
Hendry Given the Dreaded Vote of Confidence
Chicago Cubs' GM Jim Hendry was given the dreaded 'vote of confidence' by owner Tom Ricketts this week. Ricketts was quoted as saying, "The fact is right now, Jim is our general manager, I support him, I think he does a great job, and after that we'll just take it one day at a time."
After reading the article, Hendry was quoted as saying, "Crap. All righty, well, I guess I start looking into some other organizations. Rumor has it that Arizona might still be open at the end of the season."
After reading the article, Hendry was quoted as saying, "Crap. All righty, well, I guess I start looking into some other organizations. Rumor has it that Arizona might still be open at the end of the season."
A-Rod to Star in a Movie?
Variety.com reported earlier today that Alex Rodriguez will appear in a movie alongside Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis. The movie is entiteld, "Friends with Benefits."
It's a heart-warming tale about the 2009 New York Yankees, and how Mark Teixeira and A-Rod become great friends during their run. And the benefits? A-Rod was finally able to have a season without all the pressure of being the premiere slugger in the Bronx. What else could it possibly be about?
It's a heart-warming tale about the 2009 New York Yankees, and how Mark Teixeira and A-Rod become great friends during their run. And the benefits? A-Rod was finally able to have a season without all the pressure of being the premiere slugger in the Bronx. What else could it possibly be about?
Showalter Favorite to Get Stuck With Orioles Manager Job
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports said on Sunday that Buck Showalter and the Baltimore Orioles are on the verge of coming to an agreement on the terms of a deal that would make Showalter the big winner in the Orioles' reality show The Next Scapegoat.
Showalter, with a career record of 882-833, will most likely become the O's winningest manager since Earl Weaver after a single week with the team.
Showalter, with a career record of 882-833, will most likely become the O's winningest manager since Earl Weaver after a single week with the team.
Papi's Eternal Well of Generosity Overflows
David Ortiz, or Big Papi as you may know him, won the annual display of long-ball prowess last night. Ortiz was tied with Hanley Ramirez at 21 each going into the final round, and then went off for 11 dingers in the final round. Hanley, who is used to being unable to finish things... like ground balls, put on quite a show to tie him with Papi and get into the finals, but then completely fell apart under the intense pressure of dozens of watchful fans.
Arroyo Despises Sacrificial Winning
Bronson Arroyo of the Cincinnati Reds has said that he will not consider restructuring his current deal even if it means he will be able to stay with the team long-term.
When asked if he would be willing to restructure, like teammate Scott Rolen did prior to the 2010 season, Arroyo said, "Not in a million years. Not even if they paid me in waffles, and you know how much I love waffles. Scotty may be willing to take less than he is worth, but that's because he doesn't have the cool hair that I have. It takes a lot of product to make my hair look this good, and a lot of product costs a lot of dough. SHOW ME THE MONEY!!!!!"
So, this begs the question - Just how much is a career .522 pitcher with a 4.00 ERA worth? Well, if the Reds decide to pick up his option for 2011, I guess the answer to that is $11 million. If not, I imagine the answer is $2 million, which is the buyout amount on his contract if the option is not picked up by the team. Any other average to mediocre pitchers want to play for the Reds next season? They may have the need.
Derby v. All Star Game
I flipped over to ESPN.com this afternoon to check out what was going on in the sports world, and saw a poll asking if fans were more interested in the Home Run Derby or the All Star Game.
Not surprisingly, in states with teams that are actually competing for their division, more people are interested in the game. In states with teams that suck, more people are interested in the derby. Notable exceptions are states with more than one team: Texas, Ohio, Florida and Pennsylvania; and Michigan.
In related news, fans of the Astros, Indians, Marlins and Pirates are banned from taking part in any baseball conversation for the rest of the year. Likewise, Tiger fans must now refer to themselves as "affiliates."
Not surprisingly, in states with teams that are actually competing for their division, more people are interested in the game. In states with teams that suck, more people are interested in the derby. Notable exceptions are states with more than one team: Texas, Ohio, Florida and Pennsylvania; and Michigan.
In related news, fans of the Astros, Indians, Marlins and Pirates are banned from taking part in any baseball conversation for the rest of the year. Likewise, Tiger fans must now refer to themselves as "affiliates."
All Star Festivities Begin
Welcome to the All Star Break!
All Star Festivities began on Sunday night with the MLB Futures game featuring the best of the minor leagues divided into two teams - the World Team and US Team. The US Team showed what the World Baseball Classic continually fails to show - that the U.S. dominates baseball!!! USA! USA! USA! Eat that, Spain, and your fading World Cup glory!
As I write this, the Legends & Celebrity softball game is going on. I probably should wait until it is over to talk about it, but let's face it, I'm probably not going to watch the whole thing, and you're not watching it either. Here's what you need to know - Bo Jackson is playing 1st base for the AL team; Gary Carter is catching for the NL team; M.C. Hammer has already homered; and Guy Fieri just hit a single.
I'm pretty sure I just heard John Kruk, who was standing on 2nd at the time, ask if they could steal. I don't think Kruk could steal a base when he was in his prime. I doubt he can do it now.
All Star Festivities began on Sunday night with the MLB Futures game featuring the best of the minor leagues divided into two teams - the World Team and US Team. The US Team showed what the World Baseball Classic continually fails to show - that the U.S. dominates baseball!!! USA! USA! USA! Eat that, Spain, and your fading World Cup glory!
As I write this, the Legends & Celebrity softball game is going on. I probably should wait until it is over to talk about it, but let's face it, I'm probably not going to watch the whole thing, and you're not watching it either. Here's what you need to know - Bo Jackson is playing 1st base for the AL team; Gary Carter is catching for the NL team; M.C. Hammer has already homered; and Guy Fieri just hit a single.
I'm pretty sure I just heard John Kruk, who was standing on 2nd at the time, ask if they could steal. I don't think Kruk could steal a base when he was in his prime. I doubt he can do it now.
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.
Congratulations. I knew the record would stand until it was broken.
Pirates Haven't Had Multi-Run HR in a Month
On June 8th, Pirates 3B Delwyn Young hit a 2-run HR off of Stephen Strasburg. Why do Pirates fans remember this? Because it was all their offense could manage against the young phenom? No. Because it was a milestone home run for Young? No. Because it set a single-season record for most RBIs in a single at bat for a Pirates 3B? Nope. Pirates fans remember it because it was the last multi-run home run the Pirates have hit so far this season.
That's right, folk! The Pirates haven't had a 2, 3 or 4 run home run in a month! It is completely unbeliev.... Wait a minute. This is the Pirates, right? Okay, maybe it's not that unbelievable.
Sandoval, Renteria Spooked
Giants players Pablo Sandoval and Edgar Renteria checked out of the team hotel in Milwaukee the other day because of rumors that the Pfister Hotel is haunted. Adrian Beltre, among others, has reported hearing strange sounds in the night while staying at the hotel.
Perhaps the most haunting aspect of this entire story is the fact that Edgar Renteria is still getting paid to play baseball after all these years.
Perhaps the most haunting aspect of this entire story is the fact that Edgar Renteria is still getting paid to play baseball after all these years.
The Sluggers Strike Back
Sluggers throughout baseball, pissed that everyone keeps referring to this season as the "Year of the Pitcher," took some might hacks at that image on Wednesday night. Across baseball, a season high of 46 balls left the park in fair territory and one more was legged out just for good measure.
Paul Bunyan Adam Dunn led the charge with three round-trippers against the Padres, while Matt Holliday, Buster Posey, Martin Prado and Casey Kotchmann all pitched in with a pair. Blue Jay Jose Bautista, bored with just jogging around the bases, decided to add an in-the-park dinger to his league leading total.
Take that mainstream media!
Take that mainstream media!
Cardinals to Open Gift Wrap Business in Denver
For the second night in a row, the Cardinals dropped a game to the Rockies in horrible, bullpen-collapse, walk-off fashion when Chris Ianetta hit a solo shot in the 9th inning on Wednesday night, giving the Rockies a 8-7 victory after the Cardinals entered the bottom of the 8th inning with a 7-4 lead.
Evan MacLane, who gave up Wednesday night's walk-off to the first batter he has ever faced in the major leagues, on his historic appearance: "I've always wanted to be on the same list as [San Diego pitcher] J.J. Trujillo, and now I feel like I've finally made it."
In related news, the St. Louis Cardinals have decided to open their own gift wrap business in the greater Denver area. Closer Ryan Franklin, who gave up 6 runs in Tuesday's 12-9 defeat: "I've really been looking for an opportunity to put my new Santa goatee to work in some special ways for people in need. I think I've finally found that opportunity here in Denver. Any time you have an opportunity to give back, it's a good day."
The new gift wrap business is going to be available for Denver residents for just one more day before moving on to Houston.
Evan MacLane, who gave up Wednesday night's walk-off to the first batter he has ever faced in the major leagues, on his historic appearance: "I've always wanted to be on the same list as [San Diego pitcher] J.J. Trujillo, and now I feel like I've finally made it."
In related news, the St. Louis Cardinals have decided to open their own gift wrap business in the greater Denver area. Closer Ryan Franklin, who gave up 6 runs in Tuesday's 12-9 defeat: "I've really been looking for an opportunity to put my new Santa goatee to work in some special ways for people in need. I think I've finally found that opportunity here in Denver. Any time you have an opportunity to give back, it's a good day."
The new gift wrap business is going to be available for Denver residents for just one more day before moving on to Houston.
Piniella Says He Won't Quit
In an article by the Chicago Tribune, Cubs manager Lou Piniella has said that he hasn't given up on the season and plans to stick it out until the end of the year. The article also states that GM Jim Hendry has said repeatedly that he doesn't plan on firing Lou either.
My wife and I made a trip up to Chicago earlier this week, and after listening to Chicago sports talk radio, I'd have to say that I agree: Hendry has no plans on firing Piniella, and Piniella doesn't plan on quitting. Do you remember the movie Snow Dogs? The main character comes in last place, but everybody thinks he was dead, so they're cheering for him anyway when he crosses the finish line. I have a feeling that's kind of how Cub fans are feeling about this season.
Perhaps the best gauge that shows the stagnation in Chi-Town is the fact that nobody seems to care right now what the Cubs are doing, which is unusual. In the area of town that we visited, we actually saw more White Sox hats than Cubs. Utterly, shocking. So buckle up Chicago! It's going to be a bumpy ride!
My wife and I made a trip up to Chicago earlier this week, and after listening to Chicago sports talk radio, I'd have to say that I agree: Hendry has no plans on firing Piniella, and Piniella doesn't plan on quitting. Do you remember the movie Snow Dogs? The main character comes in last place, but everybody thinks he was dead, so they're cheering for him anyway when he crosses the finish line. I have a feeling that's kind of how Cub fans are feeling about this season.
Perhaps the best gauge that shows the stagnation in Chi-Town is the fact that nobody seems to care right now what the Cubs are doing, which is unusual. In the area of town that we visited, we actually saw more White Sox hats than Cubs. Utterly, shocking. So buckle up Chicago! It's going to be a bumpy ride!
Cardinals Unleash Historic Collapse
True story. I woke up on Wednesday morning with a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach. I had a dream/vision just before I awoke that the Cardinals had lost their game to Colorado 6-5 on a 3-run walk-off home run. I couldn't get back to sleep, so I grabbed my phone (which sits on my nightstand), and checked the score. Boy, was I relieved to see that I was wrong... sorta. They lost 12-9 on a 3-run walk-off home run.... and allowed 9 runs in the 9th inning.
Do you want to tell me how a major league baseball teams can't get three outs before the opposing team scores 9 runs? Colorado is not that good. Their Final Vote representative is Carlos Gonzalez. They have two All Stars, neither of which played in the game.
When asked about the collapse, pitcher Dennys Reyes, who pitched in the 9th for the Cardinals, giving up 3 runs, somehow managed to lose his ability to speak/understand English.
Do you want to tell me how a major league baseball teams can't get three outs before the opposing team scores 9 runs? Colorado is not that good. Their Final Vote representative is Carlos Gonzalez. They have two All Stars, neither of which played in the game.
When asked about the collapse, pitcher Dennys Reyes, who pitched in the 9th for the Cardinals, giving up 3 runs, somehow managed to lose his ability to speak/understand English.
Pirates, Orioles Surprised By All Star Selections
When the All Star teams were named on Sunday, two teams in particular were surprised to get news that they had an All Star on their roster. The Pirates' Evan Meek and the Orioles' Ty Wigginton were named to the All Star roster of their respective clubs.
Meek has put together a solid season for the Pirates, posting a 4-2 record with a 0.92 ERA in 38 appearances and 47 innings. He currently has the best ERA by nearly 2.00, and is second on the team in wins, only 1 behind starting pitcher Paul Maholm. Take just a minute to reread those two sentences, and you'll see why the Pirates are in so much trouble this year.
Wigginton is only going to Anaheim because everyone else on the Orioles is worse than him, and they have to have somebody there.
Meek has put together a solid season for the Pirates, posting a 4-2 record with a 0.92 ERA in 38 appearances and 47 innings. He currently has the best ERA by nearly 2.00, and is second on the team in wins, only 1 behind starting pitcher Paul Maholm. Take just a minute to reread those two sentences, and you'll see why the Pirates are in so much trouble this year.
Wigginton is only going to Anaheim because everyone else on the Orioles is worse than him, and they have to have somebody there.
Big Papi's Eternal Well of Generosity
David Ortiz, or Big Papi as some call him, dropped a not-so-subtle hint before Monday's game against the Rays on Monday, when he was quoted as saying that he would love to take part in the Home Run Derby if he is invited. Ortiz is on the short list of people who have publicly admitted to wanting to take part in the HRD at Anaheim next week.
A much longer, and more prestigious, list that has been emerging through the week is the list of players who want nothing to do with the HRD. On this list: Albert Pujols, Ryan Howard, Josh Hamilton, and (much to everyone's disappointment) Omar Infante.
Adrian Beltre has said that he would decline the invitation to participate, if asked. MLB responded by saying, "Why would we ask him?"
A much longer, and more prestigious, list that has been emerging through the week is the list of players who want nothing to do with the HRD. On this list: Albert Pujols, Ryan Howard, Josh Hamilton, and (much to everyone's disappointment) Omar Infante.
Adrian Beltre has said that he would decline the invitation to participate, if asked. MLB responded by saying, "Why would we ask him?"
Final Vote Reassures Snubbies
The AL & NL All Stars were announced Sunday. In related news, the annual Snubbies also were released by millions of people who think the previously announced All Stars were not worthy enough. The top nominees (allegedly) for the Snubbies get placed in a category which allows the fans (you know, the ones that probably messed up in the first place) to vote for one last person.
The nominees for this year's Final Vote are...
NL: Joey Votto, Heath Bell, Carlos Gonzalez, Billy Wagner, Ryan Zimmerman
AL: Paul Konerko, Nick Swisher, DelmonYoung, Michael Young, Kevin Youkilis
Of course, you can add to this list a handful of guys who didn't even get a chance at this point. Most notably, at least on my list, Cardinals rookie Jaime Garcia and Mets pitcher Mike Pelfry.
The nominees for this year's Final Vote are...
NL: Joey Votto, Heath Bell, Carlos Gonzalez, Billy Wagner, Ryan Zimmerman
AL: Paul Konerko, Nick Swisher, DelmonYoung, Michael Young, Kevin Youkilis
Of course, you can add to this list a handful of guys who didn't even get a chance at this point. Most notably, at least on my list, Cardinals rookie Jaime Garcia and Mets pitcher Mike Pelfry.
D'Backs Want Some Fries
The Arizona Diamondbacks, tired of playing to their potential, fired their GM Josh Byrnes and their manager A.J. Hinch last week. Byrnes signed an 8-year extension following the 2007 season, and Hinch took over for Bob Melvin in May, in spite of the fact that he had absolutely no managerial experience.
Now, typically, if you are hiring a guy with absolutely no managerial experience on any level, you aren't expecting to win right away. It is a long-term commitment. Apparently, the front office in Phoenix considers 13 months to be "long term."
Now, typically, if you are hiring a guy with absolutely no managerial experience on any level, you aren't expecting to win right away. It is a long-term commitment. Apparently, the front office in Phoenix considers 13 months to be "long term."
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.
Baseball is ninety percent mental and the other half if physical.
Mauer Slacking Off
Just after signing a major contract extension prior to the season, Joe Mauer has given up hitting home runs for the Minnesota Twins. After a career high of 29 in 2009, Mauer has only 3 HRs this season. Twins manager Ron Gardenhire: "I'm not worried about Mauer. He'll come around. To be honest, I think we overpaid him in the first place. He's an MVP, so what? You know who else was an MVP? Me, in my winter softball league. Big deal."
The Rocket's Red Glare...
Today is a rare Sunday post here at BLB, but I thought it was rather appropriate given today's holiday. The title (in case you can't read it above... in which case, you probably can't read... in which case, you're not reading this right now... hmmm, that's a quandry) of today's post refers to a picture I took at a game a few years back.
Yup, that's Roger "The Rocket" Clemens glaring at me as I was taking a picture of him. My wife and I had the opportunity to go to an Astros-Mets game at the JuiceBox. Clemens (obviously) wasn't pitching that night, but Pedro Martinez was. Carlos Beltran was making his return to Houston after bolting for New York as a free agent, and it was dollar hot dog night.
We were in Texas for a friend's wedding, and just so happened to reconnect with our first neighbors from seminary who lived in the Houston area. He was able to get us tickets after playing racquetball with Larry Dierker's wife. Sometimes, it's nice to be at least a little connected. Our seats were on the 6th row on the first base side. I didn't exactly have to zoom in to take this picture. It was awesome, and I had the opportunity to check off another stadium from my Stadium Quest - my dream of attending a baseball game in every stadium across the U.S.
Strasburg All Star?
One of the big discussions coming up on the eve of the All Star game announcement on Sunday is whether or not Nationals phenom Stephen Strasburg deserves to be in the All Star game. Let me make this simple for you: No, he doesn't.
Here are some of the reasons why he doesn't belong:
1) People are saying, "It's what the fans want." Really? Is it what the fans want? The fans vote on the starters, and that's it. They can get all the undeserving starters into the game they want, but they don't have any business talking about what pitchers belong in the game because they don't get a say. And another thing... fans are do-do heads.
2) He's pitched in a grand total of 5 games this season. FIVE GAMES!!! Yes, he has 48 strikeouts so far. That's good enough to put him at 129th in baseball, just a touch ahead of Ross Ohlendorf. That is not a typo. Did I mention that he's only played in 5 games this season? Do you know who else has pitched in 5 games this season? Dontrelle Willis. Justin Duchscherer (who, by the way, has a better record than Strasburg). Brad Lincoln. Not exactly the starting staff that you'd like to have at this point in the season.
3) Need I remind you about what a disappointment he has been this season? Strasburg Sucks!
Here are some of the reasons why he doesn't belong:
1) People are saying, "It's what the fans want." Really? Is it what the fans want? The fans vote on the starters, and that's it. They can get all the undeserving starters into the game they want, but they don't have any business talking about what pitchers belong in the game because they don't get a say. And another thing... fans are do-do heads.
2) He's pitched in a grand total of 5 games this season. FIVE GAMES!!! Yes, he has 48 strikeouts so far. That's good enough to put him at 129th in baseball, just a touch ahead of Ross Ohlendorf. That is not a typo. Did I mention that he's only played in 5 games this season? Do you know who else has pitched in 5 games this season? Dontrelle Willis. Justin Duchscherer (who, by the way, has a better record than Strasburg). Brad Lincoln. Not exactly the starting staff that you'd like to have at this point in the season.
3) Need I remind you about what a disappointment he has been this season? Strasburg Sucks!
Linktastic Saturday!
Welcome to another Linktastic Saturday! Below are some of the other (probably better) posts that are similar to what you'll find here, at BasesLoadedBalk!
Sports Pickle
Oriole Fans on Bereavement Leave
Giants Hold "Cool Players Only" Meeting
The Onion
Pirates Sign Guy Who Successfully Jogged Across the Street
Deadspin
Sorcery is the Answer in Pittsburgh
Cell Phone Guy Gets Ground-Rule Double in the Face
Prior Attempting a Comeback
Pirates Rehire Pierogi Guy!
Sports Pickle
Oriole Fans on Bereavement Leave
Giants Hold "Cool Players Only" Meeting
The Onion
Pirates Sign Guy Who Successfully Jogged Across the Street
Deadspin
Sorcery is the Answer in Pittsburgh
Cell Phone Guy Gets Ground-Rule Double in the Face
Prior Attempting a Comeback
Pirates Rehire Pierogi Guy!
BLB Jinx in the Making?
One day after using Josh Hamilton as the small-sample size example refuting mainstream media's "Year of the Pitcher," Josh Hamilton goes 0-3 in the Rangers loss to the Angels. Is this a sign that BLB is a bad thing for such players?
In an interview with Orioles' player Luke Scott on Wednesday, BLB was told: "No, I don't believe in hexes, or jinxes, or sparkly vampires, Muppets, or albinos. I can't believe that grown men have these kind of superstitions."
In totally unrelated news, Luke Scott of the Baltimore Orioles injured his hamstring Wednesday night from rounding the bases after hitting the go-ahead HR in the 7th inning.
In an interview with Orioles' player Luke Scott on Wednesday, BLB was told: "No, I don't believe in hexes, or jinxes, or sparkly vampires, Muppets, or albinos. I can't believe that grown men have these kind of superstitions."
In totally unrelated news, Luke Scott of the Baltimore Orioles injured his hamstring Wednesday night from rounding the bases after hitting the go-ahead HR in the 7th inning.
Orioles Continue Search for Next Scapegoat
Bravo's newest reality show is in full swing right now in the lovely city of Baltimore. Perhaps you've heard of it? It's called Top Scapegoat, and it is focusing on the hiring of a new manager for the Baltimore Orioles. The format is unlike anything reality television has done before. In this game, the most qualified contestants decide to go home. None of this "please pack your knives and go." No, "rose ceremony." The candidates themselves, after looking at ownership and the prospect of guiding the Orioles through the AL East, remove themselves from consideration.
Balitmore's owner, Peter Angelos: "We are striving to be the absolute worst team in baseball, and we've put ourselves in a good position over the years to be unable to compete in the AL East. Our problem has been that we've had a string of managers that are actually trying to win with these guys. It seems like every year we have to start all over again. It's hard being on bottom."
Balitmore's owner, Peter Angelos: "We are striving to be the absolute worst team in baseball, and we've put ourselves in a good position over the years to be unable to compete in the AL East. Our problem has been that we've had a string of managers that are actually trying to win with these guys. It seems like every year we have to start all over again. It's hard being on bottom."
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