That About Sums It Up
How bad are the Cardinals playing right now? So bad that there's no need to dispute this Freudian slip of a headline. By the way, I checked, it's been fixed.
Your LLWS Racist Update
AP reporter Genaro Armas is a racist, or he was raised by WWII-era parents who were racists and passed it on and he doesn't know any better.... Or the more likely scenario that he is covering the Little League World Series and doesn't put a lot of thought into his job because some of these kids are just arrogant jerks that give him swirlies in the locker rooms of Williamsport, PA.
Either way, here's your inadvertent racist statement of the day.
In case you didn't catch it: Nip - a Japanese person, derogatory, from Nippon, the Japanese name for Japan.
And for future reference, if you want to look up a definition of nip for your blog, it may not be the best idea to put "nip" into a search engine. Depending on the search engine, you may not get what you are intending to get.
Either way, here's your inadvertent racist statement of the day.
In case you didn't catch it: Nip - a Japanese person, derogatory, from Nippon, the Japanese name for Japan.
And for future reference, if you want to look up a definition of nip for your blog, it may not be the best idea to put "nip" into a search engine. Depending on the search engine, you may not get what you are intending to get.
Missed It By That Much
Prior to a Rangers game in Arlington, Tx last week, they were having a special appearance by the U.S. Army's Golden Knights parachute team. As you would expect from a parachute team, the entered the stadium.... via parachutes. The plan was that they were to land on the field. Hmmm....
In a move that gave Marines everywhere another opportunity to make fun of the Army, one parachuter missed his target. Maybe it was flag day, and the guy was doing an impersonation.... yeah, that's the ticket! I just hope he doesn't get too.... hung up.... on his epic fail.
In a move that gave Marines everywhere another opportunity to make fun of the Army, one parachuter missed his target. Maybe it was flag day, and the guy was doing an impersonation.... yeah, that's the ticket! I just hope he doesn't get too.... hung up.... on his epic fail.
Strasburg Can't Suck It Up, Dibs
In response to Rob Dibble's relentless badgering about playing through the pain, Stephen Strasburg is going to be shut down for the rest of the season.... and most of 2011, with Tommy John surgery. Turns out that strained flexor tendon is a lot worse than initially thought. That cry you heard in Washington, D.C. was not the petty arguments going back and forth across the aisle on Capitol Hill, it was both of the Nationals' fans realizing that 2010 and 2011 would be wasted years.... again....
Pretty soon, we may be seeing Strasburg on the Mark Prior/Kip Wells comeback trail.
Pretty soon, we may be seeing Strasburg on the Mark Prior/Kip Wells comeback trail.
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.
I never blame myself when I'm not hitting. I just blame the bat and if it keeps up, I change bats. After all, if I know it isn't my fault that I'm not hitting, how can I get mad at myself?
J.D. Drew - Ballplayer, Not Mathematician
J.D. Drew is just your slightly above average outfielder for the Boston Red Sox. Perhaps my view of Drew is maligned because of the things said about him in Three Nights in August, but I'm not a huge fan. He has all the talent in the world, but doesn't really work all that hard to play the game. He relies on talent, makes his money, and that's about it. However, because of his great talent, he can do things that other players can't necessarily do... like make a really difficult catch in foul territory look easy, even when he doesn't mean to do it. Let me explain.
In Saturday's game against the Rays, a runner was on third with one out and the batter hit a towering fly ball into foul territory where the visitor's bullpen is located. In most instances, a fielder might let a difficult foul ball go because the runner on third can tag up and score. Drew ran over to size up the situation, and ended up catching the ball while falling into the chairs. The runner tagged from third and scored on the play, tying the game up at 1-1.
It's baseball, so you don't know what would have happened had Drew not caught the ball, but Boston's pitcher was kind of upset because the run ended up scoring, and here's where we get to the relevant part. Here is an actual quote from Drew following the game:
I know that J.D. Drew is a baseball player, not Danica McKellar, but give me a break.
In Saturday's game against the Rays, a runner was on third with one out and the batter hit a towering fly ball into foul territory where the visitor's bullpen is located. In most instances, a fielder might let a difficult foul ball go because the runner on third can tag up and score. Drew ran over to size up the situation, and ended up catching the ball while falling into the chairs. The runner tagged from third and scored on the play, tying the game up at 1-1.
It's baseball, so you don't know what would have happened had Drew not caught the ball, but Boston's pitcher was kind of upset because the run ended up scoring, and here's where we get to the relevant part. Here is an actual quote from Drew following the game:
"It's a question mark," said Drew. "If you let the ball drop and he walks, there's two guys on and the next pitch he hits a two-run homer, it's a difficult situation. But in that part of the game, Clay [Buchholz] is throwing the ball pretty well, he's got a good chance on [a] 3-2 [pitch], but you never know what's going to happen."You see that part that's in bold and underlined. Read it again. That's right, Drew suggested that Buchholz would somehow walk the batter, putting runners on 1st and 3rd, and then allow a two-run homer. I know that there is a lot of talk of Buchholz for the AL Cy Young this season, but if he can allow a two-run homer with two runners already on base, then he deserves the next three Cy Young awards.
I know that J.D. Drew is a baseball player, not Danica McKellar, but give me a break.
Your LLWS Update
Okay, it's not really an update so much as an opportunity to make fun of young Aaron Juarez from Mexico. Check out Aaron's biographical information. I'm pretty sure "role model" doesn't translate well into Spanish.
Dibs Hates Strasburg
Rob Dibble, former MLB pitcher and current talking head on MLB Network Radio, blasted Steven Strasburg for skipping a start following a twinge in his throwing arm. In case you haven't heard....
During the fifth inning of a game against the Phillies, Strasburg threw a pitch and afterwards was seen shaking his throwing arm. Turns out, he strained the flexor tendon in his right arm - not a serious injury (he was seen playing catch with teammates the next day), but not something that you take lightly with a man who you are paying $14 billion dollars per pitch.
Now that you have the back story, click here and check out Deadspin's Barry Petchesky's point-counterpoint article. Great stuff.
On This Date...
On This Date... is going to be a sporadic segment here on BLB. It will involve a little bit of history for fans of the greatest game on earth. I cannot guarantee that all of the history will be accurate, but it sure will be fun!
For our first On This Date, how 'bout we turn the Way Back Machine to August 26, 2008.
The Washington Nationals got on the mascot racing bandwagon in a way that would only work in Washington, D.C..... and maybe North Dakota... with the giant head Presidential Race!
In the inaugural race, Teddy Roosevelt comes out ahead of the pack, but you may notice that he is wearing a do-rag a la Manny Ramirez (who was in the stadium that day as the Nationals hosted the Dodgers). The rest is... well... Teddy being Teddy.
For our first On This Date, how 'bout we turn the Way Back Machine to August 26, 2008.
The Washington Nationals got on the mascot racing bandwagon in a way that would only work in Washington, D.C..... and maybe North Dakota... with the giant head Presidential Race!
In the inaugural race, Teddy Roosevelt comes out ahead of the pack, but you may notice that he is wearing a do-rag a la Manny Ramirez (who was in the stadium that day as the Nationals hosted the Dodgers). The rest is... well... Teddy being Teddy.
Brewers to Raise Selig Statue
You know how ballclubs will put up statues of the greatest players in their franchise history? The Cubs have Ernie Banks, the Cardinals have Stan Musial, the Pirates have Roberto Clemente, the Reds have.... well, somebody.... anyhoo!
The Milwaukee Brewers will be raising a statue of former owner and current commissioner Bud Selig next week. Selig is part of a group responsible for bringing the Brewers to Milwaukee from Seattle, where they were known as the Pilots. As commissioner, he has also instituted such beloved and uncontroversial things as steroid testing, interleague play, the divisional round of the playoffs, and turning the All Star Game into an exhibition that "counts."
There will be a star-studded unveiling with representatives from every MLB team scheduled to be there. It kind of reminds me of when a Roman emperor would do something and everybody had to show up or be fed to the lions. That may be a bit of revisionist history taking place, but it makes sense and, let's be honest, you're probably not going to take the time to see if that really happened or not.
The most difficult thing about the statue is differentiating it from Selig himself. I'm pretty sure that he is old enough that he has started to petrify (i.e. to convert wood into stone).
The Milwaukee Brewers will be raising a statue of former owner and current commissioner Bud Selig next week. Selig is part of a group responsible for bringing the Brewers to Milwaukee from Seattle, where they were known as the Pilots. As commissioner, he has also instituted such beloved and uncontroversial things as steroid testing, interleague play, the divisional round of the playoffs, and turning the All Star Game into an exhibition that "counts."
There will be a star-studded unveiling with representatives from every MLB team scheduled to be there. It kind of reminds me of when a Roman emperor would do something and everybody had to show up or be fed to the lions. That may be a bit of revisionist history taking place, but it makes sense and, let's be honest, you're probably not going to take the time to see if that really happened or not.
The most difficult thing about the statue is differentiating it from Selig himself. I'm pretty sure that he is old enough that he has started to petrify (i.e. to convert wood into stone).
Reds Attempt to Recreate Cards of 2004 Falling Apart
Walt Jocketty, former GM of the St. Louis Cardinals and current GM of the Cincinnati Reds, has put together a team in Cincinnati that resembles another team that wore red back in 2004. When he traded for Jim Edmonds, Jocketty had pieced together five members of that 2004 Cardinal team: Edmonds, Russ Springer, Scott Rolen, Miguel Cairo and Jason Isringhausen (who is pitching in Triple-A).
Unfortunately, the 2004 Cardinals were dominating 6 years ago, which means all of those players are 6 years older (and they weren't exactly spring chickens at the time). Well, Father Time is starting to catch up to them.
Jim Edmonds, just 3 for 22 with the Reds, is reportedly heading for the DL with a strained oblique where he will be joining another former Cardinal, Russ Springer, who is going to miss the rest of the season following back surgery. It's only a matter of time before they call up Izzy and he starts coughing up leads late in the game.
Unfortunately, the 2004 Cardinals were dominating 6 years ago, which means all of those players are 6 years older (and they weren't exactly spring chickens at the time). Well, Father Time is starting to catch up to them.
Jim Edmonds, just 3 for 22 with the Reds, is reportedly heading for the DL with a strained oblique where he will be joining another former Cardinal, Russ Springer, who is going to miss the rest of the season following back surgery. It's only a matter of time before they call up Izzy and he starts coughing up leads late in the game.
Damon Has Difficult Decision Ahead
Johnny Damon was placed on waivers by the Detroit Tigers, and reports indicate that the Boston Red Sox are the team that have won the claim on the former Royal-A's-Red Sox-Yankee outfielder. So, now Damon has quite a decision to make: whether or not to veto a trade to the Red Sox
It's understandable that this would be a difficult decision. Damon played for the Red Sox from 2002-2005, helping them break the "Curse of the Bambino" - or as the rest of the world called it, 86 years of terrible play in the regular-and/or-post season. Of course, Damon didn't exactly endear himself to Boston fans when he bolted after the 2005 season to join the Yankees, or as they have been called, "The Evil Empire."
This decision really boils down to which mediocre, underachieving team would Damon prefer to finish the season with. Good luck deciding Johnny because I'm pretty sure the rest of us don't care.
It's understandable that this would be a difficult decision. Damon played for the Red Sox from 2002-2005, helping them break the "Curse of the Bambino" - or as the rest of the world called it, 86 years of terrible play in the regular-and/or-post season. Of course, Damon didn't exactly endear himself to Boston fans when he bolted after the 2005 season to join the Yankees, or as they have been called, "The Evil Empire."
This decision really boils down to which mediocre, underachieving team would Damon prefer to finish the season with. Good luck deciding Johnny because I'm pretty sure the rest of us don't care.
Rangers Try to Join No-Hit Parade
Because there haven't been enough reasons to consider this season the Year of the Pitcher, Rich Harden and the Rangers bullpen attempted to throw yet another no-hitter last night against the Minnesota Twins. Thankfully, for everybody tired of hearing about how all the hitters are done using steroids (which, apparently, could be the only possible explanation for the upshot in pitching this season), Joe Mauer singled with one out in the 9th to break up the no-no.
All I have to say to that is....
Well played, indeed.
All I have to say to that is....
Well played, indeed.
Vin Scully Announces....
.... that he will be keeping his talents in South Cali. That's right, folks, Mr. Scully, the man who was confused by a mullet, will return for his 62nd season announcing Dodger games. For the non-math majors out there, that means he has been announcing games for the Dodgers since 1950. So, what has happened since Vin Scully started announcing Dodger games?
- 12 different men with 11 last names have been elected President of the United States
- Korean War... well, technically, that's still going on
- The Civil Rights Movement
- The Interstate system was built (and continues to be under construction wherever I need to go)
- Dirty Commies pointed rockets at the United States
- JFK, RFK, & MLK, Jr. were all assassinated
- Vietnam War
- US Space Program landed on the moon.
- Iraq I, Iraq II, Afghanistan & other various wars around the world
- Rise of fantasy baseball & football
- My parents were born
Oh, and what hasn't happened in that time?
The Cubs haven't made a World Series appearance!
Lou's Goal to Finish Season Falls Short
Since we've been keeping tabs on the Lou Piniella saga this season (here and here), it just wouldn't be right to let another day go by without mentioning that Piniella decided that yesterday's game against the Braves (Sunday, August 22nd) would be his last as the manager of the Cubs. The team promptly went out and gave him confirmation that there was no point in investing any more into this season, by losing a close one... 16-5.
So, two months behind the rest of Cub nation, Lou Piniella has given up on the team. The only question that remains is: Who is going to manage the team into oblivion next season?
So, two months behind the rest of Cub nation, Lou Piniella has given up on the team. The only question that remains is: Who is going to manage the team into oblivion next season?
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.
I just want to thank everyone who made this day necessary.
Scully, Tulo, Fish & Hair
Vin Scully is hands down one of the best announcers in the game of baseball today. In an era where people don't listen to games like they used to (with the proliferation of television and the internet... and other things to do), Vin Scully is a throwback to the days of Walter Johnson, Cy Young and Christy Mathewson... no, seriously, this dude's been around for a long time.
There are things about baseball the Scully could describe, and you'd feel like you were right there. Unfortunately, he doesn't keep up on all the "latest" fashion trends, as you can hear from listening to this clip. It's about 2 minutes long, but worth every second.
This is during a Dodgers-Rockies game. The player he is talking about is Rockies' SS Troy Tulowitzki. Listen to the clip here.
There are things about baseball the Scully could describe, and you'd feel like you were right there. Unfortunately, he doesn't keep up on all the "latest" fashion trends, as you can hear from listening to this clip. It's about 2 minutes long, but worth every second.
This is during a Dodgers-Rockies game. The player he is talking about is Rockies' SS Troy Tulowitzki. Listen to the clip here.
Angel Stadium Not a Safe Place
In what is apparently Fans Getting Hurt Day here at Bases Loaded Balk, a kid was taking part in an on field, between innings challenge, when he pulled a Kendry Morales. He trips and breaks his arm; however, give the kid credit, he gets back up and completes his task anyway! Way to go, kid! Take one for the team!
Idiotic Couple No Longer Couple
Here's a great story.
On Monday, August 9th, at the Juicebox in Houston, a recent high school graduate (not sure how that happened) and his girlfriend were watching the Astros take on the Braves. A foul ball was hit into the stands right at the couple (who had been seat-hopping!). At the last second, the guy ducked out of the way, blaming it on the lights, and the ball smacked his girlfriend right on the arm.
As you can imagine, this video got put on YouTube and instantly became a sensation. A couple of days later, the couple appeared on the CBS Morning Show. The guy, Bo, gets completely ridiculed by the host, and then some very interesting information comes out. I tried to embed it, but couldn't get it to center correctly, so click on the link and enjoy the clip!
On Monday, August 9th, at the Juicebox in Houston, a recent high school graduate (not sure how that happened) and his girlfriend were watching the Astros take on the Braves. A foul ball was hit into the stands right at the couple (who had been seat-hopping!). At the last second, the guy ducked out of the way, blaming it on the lights, and the ball smacked his girlfriend right on the arm.
As you can imagine, this video got put on YouTube and instantly became a sensation. A couple of days later, the couple appeared on the CBS Morning Show. The guy, Bo, gets completely ridiculed by the host, and then some very interesting information comes out. I tried to embed it, but couldn't get it to center correctly, so click on the link and enjoy the clip!
M's Manager Given His Wak...amatsu Papers
I know this happened a while back, but I found out some additional news about the Wakamatsu firing that happened to fit very well into the scope of what I try to do here at BLB.
To say the least, the Mariners have been very, very disappointing this season. Many people picked them to win the AL West because of their pitching tandem of Cliff Lee and Felix Hernandez. Needless to say, that isn't going to happen. And, as is often the case, the manager is the one who has to be held accountable for underachieving. Unfortunately, the Mariners front office has a horrible sense of timing.
Don Wakamatsu, a fourth generation Japanese American who had a fairly unsuccessful playing career before beginning his career as a manager, was fired on the night that the Mariners were celebrating..... wait for it....
wait for it....
wait for it...
Way to go, Mariners! Way to go!
To say the least, the Mariners have been very, very disappointing this season. Many people picked them to win the AL West because of their pitching tandem of Cliff Lee and Felix Hernandez. Needless to say, that isn't going to happen. And, as is often the case, the manager is the one who has to be held accountable for underachieving. Unfortunately, the Mariners front office has a horrible sense of timing.
Don Wakamatsu, a fourth generation Japanese American who had a fairly unsuccessful playing career before beginning his career as a manager, was fired on the night that the Mariners were celebrating..... wait for it....
wait for it....
wait for it...
Japanese Heritage Night!!!!!!
Way to go, Mariners! Way to go!
Dodgers Paying Rent to... the Dodgers?
Here's an interesting little tidbit that I learned by catching up on my blogs from Deadspin.com the other day. The Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt actually owns the stadium where the Dodgers play. If the owner owns the stadium, you would think that there would be no need to pay rent, right? Wrong! The Dodgers pay a reported $14 million in rent every year. And the best part, here's the rental breakdown: $5M to McCourt, $4.5M to pay back loans and $4M to construction managers. Oh, and the construction company, you guessed it, owned by McCourt.
So, the Dodgers, who have been hamstrung financially while Frank and Mrs. McCourt are going through their divorce, are paying $14M/year to rent out their own stadium. Anybody want to start the list of players that the Dodgers could have signed for $14M/year?
Hopefully Frankie loses the team in the divorce, and somebody who is interested in something more than padding their personal bank accounts can take over the team for the sake of the fans.
So, the Dodgers, who have been hamstrung financially while Frank and Mrs. McCourt are going through their divorce, are paying $14M/year to rent out their own stadium. Anybody want to start the list of players that the Dodgers could have signed for $14M/year?
Hopefully Frankie loses the team in the divorce, and somebody who is interested in something more than padding their personal bank accounts can take over the team for the sake of the fans.
Francoeur's Delusions of Grandeur
Last week, Jeff Francoeur demanded a trade from the New York Mets because he was upset about being platooned in right field with Fernando Martinez. Francoeur apparently forgot that even Luis Castillo is hitting better than him at this point in the season.
According to OPS+ (I have no idea what that actually is), Francoeur is literally the worst right fielder in baseball this season. In other words, Jeff ought to be happy that he is being platooned instead of released. Kids these days!
According to OPS+ (I have no idea what that actually is), Francoeur is literally the worst right fielder in baseball this season. In other words, Jeff ought to be happy that he is being platooned instead of released. Kids these days!
Fontenot Makes Outrageously Long Journey
The Chicago Cubs traded infielder Mike Fontenot to the San Francisco Giants last week. Fontenot was rushed to packed up all his belongings and make the journey out to San Fran..... oh, wait...
The Cubs were playing the Giants in San Francisco at the time of the trade. Fontenot simply stayed out at second base between the 3rd and 4th innings to make the trade official.
The Cubs were playing the Giants in San Francisco at the time of the trade. Fontenot simply stayed out at second base between the 3rd and 4th innings to make the trade official.
Jeter's Future
In one of the most pointless blog posts of all time, MLB Trade Rumors' Ben Nicholson-Smith puts together a list of potential suitors if Jeter were to leave the Bronx. Not surprisingly, nearly every Major League club could use a career .315 hitter and perennial All Star.
Let me make this an easy list for you. The Yankees, if they want to continue playing in the Bronx, will be the only team to re-sign Jeter for the rest of his career.
Let me make this an easy list for you. The Yankees, if they want to continue playing in the Bronx, will be the only team to re-sign Jeter for the rest of his career.
Mets Continue to Collapse
Not long after Jeff Francoeur demanded a trade from the New York Mets, infielder Luis Castillo has made it publicly known that he is not happy to be riding the pine at Citi Field. Castillo is joined in his frustration with the team by literally dozens of fans who still care about the Mets.
Perhaps Castillo should be made aware of Baseball-Reference.com, which will very quickly tell him that he is only hitting .243 on the season, and has no business starting, even for the Mets.
Perhaps Castillo should be made aware of Baseball-Reference.com, which will very quickly tell him that he is only hitting .243 on the season, and has no business starting, even for the Mets.
Rangers Sign Taveras
The Texas Rangers currently hold the biggest division league in all of baseball, and in a move to bring themselves closer to the pack and make the race in the AL West mildly interesting, they signed OF Willy Taveras to a minor league deal. Apparently, this was to provide the Rangers with outfield depth for their Triple-A club because people actually care about that sort of thing.
It wasn't too long ago that Taveras led the NL in stolen bases with 68. However, pitchers found a way to keep him off the basepaths - pitch to him. Since leaving Colorado, Taveras has had minor league stints with the Phillies and Braves, and has hit a paltry .237 with the Reds and Nationals.
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.
I always thought the record would stand
until it was broken.
Lincecum Digs Deep
In a game against the Braves last week, Giants starter Tim Lincecum was starting to get a little hungry. In the fifth inning, he stopped for a bite to eat while the Giants were batting.
Apparently, the extra fuel didn't help. Timmy gave up what would be the winning run the next inning.
Thanks to Deadspin for the picture.
Apparently, the extra fuel didn't help. Timmy gave up what would be the winning run the next inning.
Thanks to Deadspin for the picture.
Harper Enrolls in School
Bryce Harper, the #1 overall pick in the 2010 draft by the Washington Nationals is showing exactly why he has a future in baseball... and not much else.
Harper still hasn't been signed by the Nationals, and has apparently enrolled at the College of Southern Nevada for the fall. I don't know if this is supposed to be some sort of negotiating ploy to show that he does indeed have other options, but, let's be honest, if you really had other options, Mr. Harper, you wouldn't have enrolled at the College of Southern Nevada. You would have gone somewhere, you know, like Cal State Fullerton, USC, University of Alaska Juneau, not the College of Southern Nevada. Just sign your stupid contract and report to the minors.
Harper still hasn't been signed by the Nationals, and has apparently enrolled at the College of Southern Nevada for the fall. I don't know if this is supposed to be some sort of negotiating ploy to show that he does indeed have other options, but, let's be honest, if you really had other options, Mr. Harper, you wouldn't have enrolled at the College of Southern Nevada. You would have gone somewhere, you know, like Cal State Fullerton, USC, University of Alaska Juneau, not the College of Southern Nevada. Just sign your stupid contract and report to the minors.
Berkman Gets Most Important Hit as Yankee
Lance "Big Puma" Berkman, the long-time Houston Astro who was traded to the Yankees prior to the deadline, had perhaps his most important hit as a Yankee, as far as Red Sox fans are concerned.
Berkman smoked a grounder during batting practice that found its way to the inside of Alex Rodriguez's left ankle. A-Rod apparently was distracted by saying hello to Fox announcer Joe Buck when the ball hit him. According to the New York Post, Rodriguez didn't even see it coming. He was looking off to the side and started hopping around like a school girl at recess.
Teammates Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira found the whole scene rather amusing, as did most people who don't really like A-Rod all that much. Best quote in all of this?
Berkman, hitting .176 after 10 games with the Yankees, said, "Clearly, I'm sorry, but it's not like I was trying to hit him in the teeth and missed lower." We know, Lance, we know. The front office was just happy that you finally made contact that didn't lead to an out.
Berkman smoked a grounder during batting practice that found its way to the inside of Alex Rodriguez's left ankle. A-Rod apparently was distracted by saying hello to Fox announcer Joe Buck when the ball hit him. According to the New York Post, Rodriguez didn't even see it coming. He was looking off to the side and started hopping around like a school girl at recess.
Teammates Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira found the whole scene rather amusing, as did most people who don't really like A-Rod all that much. Best quote in all of this?
Berkman, hitting .176 after 10 games with the Yankees, said, "Clearly, I'm sorry, but it's not like I was trying to hit him in the teeth and missed lower." We know, Lance, we know. The front office was just happy that you finally made contact that didn't lead to an out.
Francoeur Seeking a Trade
Jeff Francoeur of the New York Mets is apparently not happy about potentially being in an outfield platoon with Fernando Martinez. He is planning on sitting down with GM Omar Minaya to explore potential trade options. So, if anybody is out there looking for a career .268 hitter with minimal power for a corner outfield... Francoeur is YOUR GUY!!!!
Mark Prior on Kip Wells Comeback Trail
Mark Prior is taking a page from Kip Wells' book on how to attempt a comeback to the majors - by signing with an obscure Independent League team.
Prior has signed with the Orange County Flyers of the Golden League so he will now face power houses such as: Calgary Vipers, St. George Roadrunners, and Tijuana Cimarrones. The worst part in all of this: Prior would probably pitch just as well as members in the current Cubs' rotation.
Prior has signed with the Orange County Flyers of the Golden League so he will now face power houses such as: Calgary Vipers, St. George Roadrunners, and Tijuana Cimarrones. The worst part in all of this: Prior would probably pitch just as well as members in the current Cubs' rotation.
DeShields Signed by Astros
In news that made me feel just a little older, the Houston Astros signed Delino DeShields, Jr, who was the 8th overall pick in this year's draft. Soon, I imagine a throwback team filled with players such as DeShields Jr, Tim Raines Jr, Ken Griffey Jr, and Eric Young Jr.
Do you know how long it took for me to find that many Jr's in the majors? Too long, my friends, too long.
Do you know how long it took for me to find that many Jr's in the majors? Too long, my friends, too long.
Nolan Ryan Owns Texas
In news that made the rest of the owners in major league baseball breathe a sigh of relief, Nolan Ryan and Chuck Greenberg outbid Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban to become the new owners of the Texas Rangers.
Greenberg and Ryan won the opportunity to purchase the Rangers for a paltry $385 million. I can't imagine that there is a positive return on investment involved in this purchase, but at least the boisterously annoying Cuban is not joining the boy's club, right?
Greenberg and Ryan won the opportunity to purchase the Rangers for a paltry $385 million. I can't imagine that there is a positive return on investment involved in this purchase, but at least the boisterously annoying Cuban is not joining the boy's club, right?
Things Not Looking Good in the KC
On what has apparently turned into Royals Tuesday, which is ironic because I'm catching up on Royal Pains on Tivo, Jose Guillen has been designated for assignment. Back before the trade deadline, there was a lot of talk about Guillen possibly going to San Francisco. The Giants apparently have interest still, even though Guillen has been given the Clubhouse Personality Kiss of Death.
An anonymous executive apparently told SI's Jon Heyman that only Milton Bradley is a worse clubhouse guy. You know, Milton Bradley, the guy who called the city of Chicago racist, and finally admitted that he need psychiatric help. Yup, I'd call that a Clubhouse Personality Kiss of Death. Of course, going from Barry Bonds/Jeff Kent to Jose Guillen/whoever else might be a step down as far as clubhouse personality messes go.
An anonymous executive apparently told SI's Jon Heyman that only Milton Bradley is a worse clubhouse guy. You know, Milton Bradley, the guy who called the city of Chicago racist, and finally admitted that he need psychiatric help. Yup, I'd call that a Clubhouse Personality Kiss of Death. Of course, going from Barry Bonds/Jeff Kent to Jose Guillen/whoever else might be a step down as far as clubhouse personality messes go.
Greinke Not the Brightest of Guys
Reigning AL Cy Young winner Zack Greinke is apparently not the brightest incandescent bulb in the closet. Greinke doesn't appear to have a lot of confidence in the Royals' front office. He said to Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star, "there's no reason for me to get real excited about it...because the chance of more than one of them making a major impact by the time my contract is up is pretty slim." Greinke is also apparently upset that the Royals are in their third rebuilding phase during his six years with the club.
Maybe Greinke should learn the history of the organization before speaking his mind. How bad are the Royals? Okay, they aren't "Pirates-bad" but they aren't that good either. The last time they won their division? 1985. The last time they had a winning season 2003. The last time they had consecutive winning seasons? 1993 & the strike shortened 1994.
Guess what, Zack. The Royals have been rebuilding for nearly two decades, and it's not going to get any better. Enjoy the money that they are giving you, and get yourself ready to pitch for the Yankees or Red Sox in a couple of years.
Maybe Greinke should learn the history of the organization before speaking his mind. How bad are the Royals? Okay, they aren't "Pirates-bad" but they aren't that good either. The last time they won their division? 1985. The last time they had a winning season 2003. The last time they had consecutive winning seasons? 1993 & the strike shortened 1994.
Guess what, Zack. The Royals have been rebuilding for nearly two decades, and it's not going to get any better. Enjoy the money that they are giving you, and get yourself ready to pitch for the Yankees or Red Sox in a couple of years.
Webb May Pitch in 2010
Brandon Webb of the Arizona Diamondbacks may try to pitch for the first time in nearly two seasons... out of the bullpen.
Let me get this straight. A guy who dominated in 2006 to win the Cy Young... as the best pitcher in the National League... is thinking about coming back this season by pitching in the bullpen. Did I miss something? Do the Diamondbacks have such starting pitching depth that the can trade away Edwin Jackson, who threw a no-hitter this season, and Dan Haren, who was a legitimate Cy Young candidate last season, and then have Brandon Webb pitch out of the bullpen?
I'm sorry, I didn't realize that Kennedy, Saunders, Lopez, Enright & Hudson where such a formidable force on the mound. The D'Backs might as well toss aside Glavine, Smoltz, Maddux and Avery for that rotation.
Does anybody wonder why the Diamondbacks have been so bad the last couple of years? I think I've found your answer.
Let me get this straight. A guy who dominated in 2006 to win the Cy Young... as the best pitcher in the National League... is thinking about coming back this season by pitching in the bullpen. Did I miss something? Do the Diamondbacks have such starting pitching depth that the can trade away Edwin Jackson, who threw a no-hitter this season, and Dan Haren, who was a legitimate Cy Young candidate last season, and then have Brandon Webb pitch out of the bullpen?
I'm sorry, I didn't realize that Kennedy, Saunders, Lopez, Enright & Hudson where such a formidable force on the mound. The D'Backs might as well toss aside Glavine, Smoltz, Maddux and Avery for that rotation.
Does anybody wonder why the Diamondbacks have been so bad the last couple of years? I think I've found your answer.
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.
How can you think and hit at the same time?
BudChuck
Let me start this off by giving you a little biographical information. Houston Astros pitcher Bud Norris has a 10-10 record with a 5.21 ERA in his 27 career starts. You could call him a poor pitcher, maybe even mediocre. However, when facing the St. Louis Cardinals, Bud Norris transforms into a being more powerful than any ever imagined. Suddenly, he is the perfect mix of Walter Johnson, Christy Mathewson, Sandy Koufax and Cy Young. He is BudChuck Norris.
Norris has a career record of 5-1 with a 2.27 ERA in 6 games against the Cardinals. That's right, folks. Of his 10 CAREER wins, literally half are against the St. Louis Cardinals. Because of this unbelievable mystic surrounding Norris. The Cardinal writers have taken to tweeting random facts about BudChuck during the games in which he is pitching against the Cardinals. Below are just a few of the BudChuck tweets that came out during the game on Tuesday night, when BudChuck when 6 innings and allowed 4 earned runs in an 18-4 thumping that the Astros gave... well, apparently it was the Quad Cities River Bandits, not the St. Louis Cardinals.
Dusty Baker once had Bud Norris throw 168 pitches in a spring training game, Norris complained about the "short outing."
Waivers pass through Bud Norris.
Bud Norris can calculate his VORP in his head -- after every pitch. #
Bud Norris already is an Avatar.
La Russa called the bullpen and got Bud Norris' answering machine.
Bud Norris was the muse that inspired Axl Rose to finish "Chinese Democracy." Look it up.
It was going to be Bud Norris Week before he introduced the producers to his workout partners, the sharks.
Bud Norris produced the new Arcade Fire album.
Bud Norris knows that it's way cooler to take his talents to South Padre.
Bud Norris is going to hit Alex Rodriguez's 600th home run. #BudChuck
Bud Norris made his own cleats. Out of his extra teeth.
Bud Norris would hit a would-be homerun off himself then rob himself of a home run at the centerfield wall, and then pitch a perfect game.
Bud Norris doesn't throw a changeup. He just throws a fastball and makes the rest of the world speed up by 11 mph around it.
Bud Norris does not throw a slider. He only wills the hitter to believe it's a slider.
Bud Norris could play 3B for the Cardinals and pitch against them in the same game.
Bud Norris actually understands the BCS formula.
Bud Norris has announced Favre has retired. No playoffs for the Astros means plenty of time for Bud to lead Vikings to the Super Bowl he couldn't.
Bud Norris just came up to the press box and offered to write the game story for tonight. All of the game stories for tonight. #budchuck
Bud norris was just traded to the cardinals and hit an 11-run homer to take the lead. (Clearly this was written when the Cardinals were ONLY down by 10).
Champions are the Breakfast of Bud Norris.
Bud Norris slammed the door to the training room, and the lineup card went on the DL.
This game isn't in Hi-Def. The world isn't ready for Bud Norris in HD.
Bud Norris occasionally makes errors on purpose just so the other players will think he is human.
Bud Norris once wrestled away a chicken wing from Carlos lee.
Some people piss their name in the snow. Bud Norris can piss his name into concrete.
Brett Favre sent a text message to Bud Norris last night asking for advice.
Bud Norris once lost a game to the Cardinals, just to see how it feels.
Godzilla stays in Japan because Bud Norris is in America!
Bud Norris votes in the Democratic AND Republican primary!
Bud Norris doesn't vote! He speaks and it is so.
Bud Norris gives Freddy Krueger nightmares.
In the 7th inning stretch in Houston, Texas, the crowd sings "Deep in the Heart of Bud Norris."
Pitching machines have 4 speeds. Slow, medium, fast and Bud Norris.
Bud Norris shot J.R... and got away with it.
Luke Skywalker channeled Bud Norris to locate the Death Star exhaust port.
Bud Norris once threw a 27-pitch perfect game.
Albert Pujols wears Bud Norris pajamas
When Bud Norris throws a breaking ball, it's not really a breaking ball, the earth is rising to meet it.
Bud Norris just turned back time to June 2nd, 2010 and called Jason Donald out.
The pitching performances of Bud Norris can be played in perfect sequence with Dark Side of the Moon.
Matthew Leach's (a Cardinal writer who is really into music) music playlist is composed entirely of recordings of Bud Norris singing in the shower.
When played backwards, certain Beatles songs nominate Bud Norris for the Cy Young.
Bud Norris is smiling because he's actually left-handed.
ESPN is working on a $3M deal to air "The Decisions" - a 102 part special about Bud Norris's pitch selection vs the Cardinals.
Bud Norris doesnt point to the sky after a successful inning to honor God, God points to the Earth to honor Bud Norris.
The pitching mound warmed up for Bud Norris.
Bud Norris' stuff is so good, he pitches from center field.
The truth: Sure people think it's hot out here. But really it's residual vapors from the lava Bud Norris uses to loosen his arm.
Norris has a career record of 5-1 with a 2.27 ERA in 6 games against the Cardinals. That's right, folks. Of his 10 CAREER wins, literally half are against the St. Louis Cardinals. Because of this unbelievable mystic surrounding Norris. The Cardinal writers have taken to tweeting random facts about BudChuck during the games in which he is pitching against the Cardinals. Below are just a few of the BudChuck tweets that came out during the game on Tuesday night, when BudChuck when 6 innings and allowed 4 earned runs in an 18-4 thumping that the Astros gave... well, apparently it was the Quad Cities River Bandits, not the St. Louis Cardinals.
Dusty Baker once had Bud Norris throw 168 pitches in a spring training game, Norris complained about the "short outing."
Waivers pass through Bud Norris.
Bud Norris can calculate his VORP in his head -- after every pitch. #
Bud Norris already is an Avatar.
La Russa called the bullpen and got Bud Norris' answering machine.
Bud Norris was the muse that inspired Axl Rose to finish "Chinese Democracy." Look it up.
It was going to be Bud Norris Week before he introduced the producers to his workout partners, the sharks.
Bud Norris produced the new Arcade Fire album.
Bud Norris knows that it's way cooler to take his talents to South Padre.
Bud Norris is going to hit Alex Rodriguez's 600th home run. #BudChuck
Bud Norris made his own cleats. Out of his extra teeth.
Bud Norris would hit a would-be homerun off himself then rob himself of a home run at the centerfield wall, and then pitch a perfect game.
Bud Norris doesn't throw a changeup. He just throws a fastball and makes the rest of the world speed up by 11 mph around it.
Bud Norris does not throw a slider. He only wills the hitter to believe it's a slider.
Bud Norris could play 3B for the Cardinals and pitch against them in the same game.
Bud Norris actually understands the BCS formula.
Bud Norris has announced Favre has retired. No playoffs for the Astros means plenty of time for Bud to lead Vikings to the Super Bowl he couldn't.
Bud Norris just came up to the press box and offered to write the game story for tonight. All of the game stories for tonight. #budchuck
Bud norris was just traded to the cardinals and hit an 11-run homer to take the lead. (Clearly this was written when the Cardinals were ONLY down by 10).
Champions are the Breakfast of Bud Norris.
Bud Norris slammed the door to the training room, and the lineup card went on the DL.
This game isn't in Hi-Def. The world isn't ready for Bud Norris in HD.
Bud Norris occasionally makes errors on purpose just so the other players will think he is human.
Bud Norris once wrestled away a chicken wing from Carlos lee.
Some people piss their name in the snow. Bud Norris can piss his name into concrete.
Brett Favre sent a text message to Bud Norris last night asking for advice.
Bud Norris once lost a game to the Cardinals, just to see how it feels.
Godzilla stays in Japan because Bud Norris is in America!
Bud Norris votes in the Democratic AND Republican primary!
Bud Norris doesn't vote! He speaks and it is so.
Bud Norris gives Freddy Krueger nightmares.
In the 7th inning stretch in Houston, Texas, the crowd sings "Deep in the Heart of Bud Norris."
Pitching machines have 4 speeds. Slow, medium, fast and Bud Norris.
Bud Norris shot J.R... and got away with it.
Luke Skywalker channeled Bud Norris to locate the Death Star exhaust port.
Bud Norris once threw a 27-pitch perfect game.
Albert Pujols wears Bud Norris pajamas
When Bud Norris throws a breaking ball, it's not really a breaking ball, the earth is rising to meet it.
Bud Norris just turned back time to June 2nd, 2010 and called Jason Donald out.
The pitching performances of Bud Norris can be played in perfect sequence with Dark Side of the Moon.
Matthew Leach's (a Cardinal writer who is really into music) music playlist is composed entirely of recordings of Bud Norris singing in the shower.
When played backwards, certain Beatles songs nominate Bud Norris for the Cy Young.
Bud Norris is smiling because he's actually left-handed.
ESPN is working on a $3M deal to air "The Decisions" - a 102 part special about Bud Norris's pitch selection vs the Cardinals.
Bud Norris doesnt point to the sky after a successful inning to honor God, God points to the Earth to honor Bud Norris.
The pitching mound warmed up for Bud Norris.
Bud Norris' stuff is so good, he pitches from center field.
The truth: Sure people think it's hot out here. But really it's residual vapors from the lava Bud Norris uses to loosen his arm.
Most Pointless Deal Award
And the award for Most Pointless Deal at the trading deadline goes to....
The Pirates and Diamondback for their 5 player deal involving Chris Snyder, Pedro Ciriaco, D.J. Carrasco, Ryan Church and Bobby Crosby!
Why is this deal pointless, you ask? Because the two teams have won a combined 75 games, which would put them 9 games ahead of the ML-leading Yankess in the win column. Unfortunately, teams cannot simply join forces like the Wonder Twins Zan and Jayna.... and, yes, I had to look up that obscure reference.
This trade is so pointless, I'm not even going to put the players' names in the "labels" list below.
The Pirates and Diamondback for their 5 player deal involving Chris Snyder, Pedro Ciriaco, D.J. Carrasco, Ryan Church and Bobby Crosby!
Why is this deal pointless, you ask? Because the two teams have won a combined 75 games, which would put them 9 games ahead of the ML-leading Yankess in the win column. Unfortunately, teams cannot simply join forces like the Wonder Twins Zan and Jayna.... and, yes, I had to look up that obscure reference.
This trade is so pointless, I'm not even going to put the players' names in the "labels" list below.
Red Sox Gets Salty
One of the coolest names in baseball was quietly traded to the Red Sox last week. Jarrod Saltalamacchia went from the Rangers Triple-A affiliate to the Red Sox Triple-A affiliate. According to a report, Salty got a case of the "yips," which basically means he forgot how to throw the ball 60 feet back to the pitcher.
Before the Sox acquired Saltalamacchia, they were reportedly deep into the Rube Baker trade talks before the Indians finally clued them in on the fact that Rube was just a character from the 1994 movie Major League 2.
Before the Sox acquired Saltalamacchia, they were reportedly deep into the Rube Baker trade talks before the Indians finally clued them in on the fact that Rube was just a character from the 1994 movie Major League 2.
Jackson In Familiar Territory
Edwin Jackson, formerly of the Arizona Diamondbacks, was traded to the White Sox last week. It is the fifth team that Jackson has been with in his 8 year career, and the fourth in the last 3 years. There was some speculation that White Sox GM Kenny Williams would flip Jackson to the Nationals for Adam Dunn, but that deal never happened.
Jackson has decided to permanently reside in his 2006 Escalade, citing the spacious interior and over-the-seat DVD player as "significant ammenities."
Jackson has decided to permanently reside in his 2006 Escalade, citing the spacious interior and over-the-seat DVD player as "significant ammenities."
Showalter Wins The Next Scapegoat
It became official on Thursday that Buck Showalter won the Baltimore edition of The Next Scapegoat. He will allegedly manage the Orioles until at least 2013, but we all know that he'll get fired long before that year rolls around.
Current interim manager, Juan Samuel, though interviewed for the job, is going to get stuck with his old job as the third base coach, which, if you think about it, is a pretty sweet gig. He doesn't have to do all that much because the Orioles don't get on base, or score all that much.
Current interim manager, Juan Samuel, though interviewed for the job, is going to get stuck with his old job as the third base coach, which, if you think about it, is a pretty sweet gig. He doesn't have to do all that much because the Orioles don't get on base, or score all that much.
Cubs Had Big Z on Trading Block
My initial reaction to seeing that headline - Duh!
Of course Zambrano was on the trading block. The Cubs have had to deal with a lot of head-cases in the last couple of years, but Big Z may be the worst. At least Milton Bradley was just bad mouthing the fan base. Zambrano went after his own teammates. I can just imagine how the conversations went:
Hendry: Hey buddy! We've got a fantastic starting pitcher on the trade block that we're willing to deal!
Random GM: Really? We could use a lefty. What's your asking price for Lilly?
Hendry: Ted? Oh, no, that's not who I was talking about. I'm talking about Carlos.
Random GM: Zambrano?!? *click*
Yup, that's about how it went.
Of course Zambrano was on the trading block. The Cubs have had to deal with a lot of head-cases in the last couple of years, but Big Z may be the worst. At least Milton Bradley was just bad mouthing the fan base. Zambrano went after his own teammates. I can just imagine how the conversations went:
Hendry: Hey buddy! We've got a fantastic starting pitcher on the trade block that we're willing to deal!
Random GM: Really? We could use a lefty. What's your asking price for Lilly?
Hendry: Ted? Oh, no, that's not who I was talking about. I'm talking about Carlos.
Random GM: Zambrano?!? *click*
Yup, that's about how it went.
Ankiel/Farnsworth Could Teach Dunn Something
Rick Ankiel and Kyle Farnsworth were traded to the Braves at the deadline, and according to a report by Mark Bowman on MLB.com, they "gladly welcomes the opportunity to spend the next two months playing meaningful games with the Braves."
As one tweet put it - the Braves were falling in line with the "You Break It, You Buy It" philosophy by picking up Ankiel who lost his control as a pitcher in the 2000 NLDS against the Braves. More importantly, however, buried deep within this "no-duh" opening sentence is a point to which Adam Dunn should pay close attention.
If you'll remember, Dunn is mildly upset that the Nationals have yet to offer him a contract extension this season, even though, apparently, his camp made an initial offer during spring training. I think what he fails to realize is that by signing a contract extension, he is contractually obligated to play in Washington on the Nationals - a place that has not seen, nor will see, significant baseball in the last two months of the season for several years.
Of course, if he does sign a contract extension, he could be a major topic of discussion every season when the end of July rolls around. Hmmmm.... maybe he IS a genius!
As one tweet put it - the Braves were falling in line with the "You Break It, You Buy It" philosophy by picking up Ankiel who lost his control as a pitcher in the 2000 NLDS against the Braves. More importantly, however, buried deep within this "no-duh" opening sentence is a point to which Adam Dunn should pay close attention.
If you'll remember, Dunn is mildly upset that the Nationals have yet to offer him a contract extension this season, even though, apparently, his camp made an initial offer during spring training. I think what he fails to realize is that by signing a contract extension, he is contractually obligated to play in Washington on the Nationals - a place that has not seen, nor will see, significant baseball in the last two months of the season for several years.
Of course, if he does sign a contract extension, he could be a major topic of discussion every season when the end of July rolls around. Hmmmm.... maybe he IS a genius!
CarGo's Exclamation Point
Carlos Gonzalez, in one of those fantastic, ironic events that I don't have to make up, completed a cycle for the Rockies on Saturday against the Cubs with a walk-off home run. It wasn't just any home run. It was a massive home run... on the first pitch... one of the farthest in Coors Field history... and it went right to a Cubs fan. Doesn't get any better than this.
If you haven't seen it, check out the video here. I promise the link is safe. I would normally embed the video, but MLB.com won't let me.
If you haven't seen it, check out the video here. I promise the link is safe. I would normally embed the video, but MLB.com won't let me.
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.
He hits from both sides of the plate.
He's amphibious.
-Yogi Berra
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