I posted previously about the Presidents Race at Washington Nationals games. Apparently there is a running joke that Teddy Roosevelt never wins the race. Something always happens, and he ends up losing, even when he's ahead by quite a bit. Well, he almost made it, and then this happened...
You never know when the Kool-Aid man is going to show up out of nowhere.
Remembering the Expos
Six years ago today the Montreal Expos played their last game as a major league ballclub (relatively speaking). Let's face it for the last several years of their existence, they were primarily a farm club for other major league teams who pilfered their best players as the trade deadline approached.... kind of like the Pirates and Royals today. Best let's remember today, so that we may always be reminded of the conspiracy against the best team in baseball in 1994. In 1994, the Expos were sitting at a pretty 74-40 on August 12th when the strike began. However, the end of the season and the postseason was cancelled. What you haven't heard is the rest of the story....
In a dark room, American patriots were discussing the importance of baseball to pull the United States out of a rut following the Gulf War in the early '90's. What they failed to realize is that such a rut didn't exist. However, their discussion revolved around the impact American morale would take if another Canadian team would win the World Series - after the Blue Jays took the '92 & '93 Series. It was then decided that the season had to be cancelled, and the Expos had to be slowly destroyed over the course of the next decade. Indeed, that is what happened.
So, at some point today, take a few moments and remember those Expos. The team that once saw baseball greats Larry Walker, Andres Galaragga, Pedro Martinez, Gary Carter, Andre Dawson, Tim Raines, Moises Alou, and... of course, the greatest Expo of all, Delino DeShields.
Here's former Expo Brad Wilkerson, barely able to stand because of the emotional pain the conspirators caused after finally accomplishing their goals.
In a dark room, American patriots were discussing the importance of baseball to pull the United States out of a rut following the Gulf War in the early '90's. What they failed to realize is that such a rut didn't exist. However, their discussion revolved around the impact American morale would take if another Canadian team would win the World Series - after the Blue Jays took the '92 & '93 Series. It was then decided that the season had to be cancelled, and the Expos had to be slowly destroyed over the course of the next decade. Indeed, that is what happened.
So, at some point today, take a few moments and remember those Expos. The team that once saw baseball greats Larry Walker, Andres Galaragga, Pedro Martinez, Gary Carter, Andre Dawson, Tim Raines, Moises Alou, and... of course, the greatest Expo of all, Delino DeShields.
Here's former Expo Brad Wilkerson, barely able to stand because of the emotional pain the conspirators caused after finally accomplishing their goals.
Reds Win NL Central
As much as it pains me to write this sentence, the Cincinnati Reds are the National League Central champions for 2010. Unfortunately, it may be a short trip into the playoffs since the Reds are a combined 16-33 against playoff contending teams (including the 2nd place Cardinals). Depending on who wins the Wild Card, the Reds will be facing the Phillies (if the Braves win) or an NL West division winner (if an NL West team wins the Wild Card).
In honor of their glorious (and hopefully short-term) victory, here's your Reds picture, brought to you courtesy of Reds rookie pitcher Mike Leake, who just farted. I'm just sayin' - the smeller's the feller.
And your bonus picture: Super Gomes! He can leap tall outfield walls in a single bound... unfortunately, he just can't catch a baseball while he's doing it.
In honor of their glorious (and hopefully short-term) victory, here's your Reds picture, brought to you courtesy of Reds rookie pitcher Mike Leake, who just farted. I'm just sayin' - the smeller's the feller.
And your bonus picture: Super Gomes! He can leap tall outfield walls in a single bound... unfortunately, he just can't catch a baseball while he's doing it.
Phillies Win NL East
The dominoes are all falling into place now, as the Philadelphia Phillies have won the National League East, and look to represent the NL in the World Series for the third straight year. Is anybody else getting tired of their shtick? "Oh no, we're playing so awful at the beginning of the year! Oh no, we've lost six starters to injury, hopefully they'll be back soon! Oh no, we're passing you in the standings! See ya, fools!"
For your edification, you may now bask in the bearded glory of Phillies outfielder Jayson Werth.
For your edification, you may now bask in the bearded glory of Phillies outfielder Jayson Werth.
Tulo's Incredible September
In case you haven't heard, Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, the glorious mullet-ed one, is having a monster September. Since September 1st, Tulo has 15 HR and 40 RBI. That's almost as crazy as his audition to become the next Budweiser spokesman. "WAAAZZZUUUUPPPPP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Yogi Monday!
Welcome to this week's Yogi Monday! We all get a case of the Mondays from time to time. There's no better way to get through a Monday than with a classic quote from one of baseball's greatest quote machines - Yogi Berra.
If people don't want to come out to the ball park, nobody's gonna stop 'em.
Rangers Win AL West
The Texas Rangers wrapped up the AL West today with a win over the Oakland A's. It's the first time the Rangers have made the playoffs since 1999 - you know, back when Juan Gone wasn't long gone, and Pudge was... oh wait, he's still around. In honor of this epic victory... okay, it wasn't really that shocking, they've been way ahead in the division most of the season. Regardless, in honor of the Rangers clinching the division, I now present you with a picture of Michael Young (who is in the playoffs for the first time after 1500+ regular season games) Kung Fu fighting the rest of the team.
And your bonus picture: Rangers Ron Washington eating an imaginary apple. Apparently the cocaine rehab was very effective.
And your double bonus picture: The original Texas Ranger...
You ARE welcome.
And your bonus picture: Rangers Ron Washington eating an imaginary apple. Apparently the cocaine rehab was very effective.
And your double bonus picture: The original Texas Ranger...
You ARE welcome.
Towers' Focus for D-backs
Newly hired GM for the Arizona Diamondbacks Kevin Towers said that next season he would like the D-backs to surprise people much like his former team, the San Diego Padres, have done this year. In a conference call with reporters, Towers was quoted as saying that his primary focus in the offseason will be the bench and the bullpen.
Arizona, who has a record similar to the Orioles, Royals, Indians and Nationals, will also need to focus on their starting pitching and players in the field if they really want to surprise people next season. Perhaps their biggest offseason move, however, would be redesigning their uniforms so they can wear these cool camo hats every day.
Arizona, who has a record similar to the Orioles, Royals, Indians and Nationals, will also need to focus on their starting pitching and players in the field if they really want to surprise people next season. Perhaps their biggest offseason move, however, would be redesigning their uniforms so they can wear these cool camo hats every day.
Storen Smarter than the Average Player
Drew Storen, pitcher for the Washington Nationals, will be attending classes at Stanford once the season is over... which, for the Nationals, was actually some time in late June. Storen is working on his degree in product design from the school's mechanical engineering department, realizes that baseball is only temporary. He knows that his chances of earning a comfortable lifestyle are not great, especially given the fact that he plays on the Nationals.
In the same article, I learned that MLB is not well-known for its college degrees. In fact, in a survey done by the Wall Street Journal, only 26 MLB players and managers have four-year college degrees. I'm actually surprised by this.
In the same article, I learned that MLB is not well-known for its college degrees. In fact, in a survey done by the Wall Street Journal, only 26 MLB players and managers have four-year college degrees. I'm actually surprised by this.
Wrigley Spared Explosion Plot
Apparently, somebody had a plan to blow up Wrigley Field. Perhaps with all the confusion surrounding how the Cubs have imploded this season, this guy thought he should take it literally.
On a side note, let's be honest, we've all thought the same thing. In fact, as I was playing Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X. just the other day, I specifically went back over a map of Chicago that is on the game, found Wrigley Field, and dropped a few Joint Strike Missles on it with my F-22 Raptor... and then I crashed my plane into it.
It looked a little bit like this:
On a side note, let's be honest, we've all thought the same thing. In fact, as I was playing Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X. just the other day, I specifically went back over a map of Chicago that is on the game, found Wrigley Field, and dropped a few Joint Strike Missles on it with my F-22 Raptor... and then I crashed my plane into it.
It looked a little bit like this:
Steinbrenner Stilling Upstaging Players
It's bad enough that George Steinbrenner was about as subtle as a herd of elephants when it came to his involvement with the Yankees while he was still alive, but now his larger than life legacy is going to be permanently enshrined with the Yankee greats in Monument Park inside Yankee Stadium. Check it out:
There's a great article on Big League Stew by Dan Brown that points out how Steinbrenner's monument is actually 2.5 times larger than the other monuments that you see pictured to the left. You know, because Steinbrenner was more important to the Yankees than, say, Mickey Mantle, whose monument you see dwarfed right next to Steinbrenner. Or, Dimaggio... or Ruth. None of them can hold a candle to the importance of Steinbrenner.
There's a great article on Big League Stew by Dan Brown that points out how Steinbrenner's monument is actually 2.5 times larger than the other monuments that you see pictured to the left. You know, because Steinbrenner was more important to the Yankees than, say, Mickey Mantle, whose monument you see dwarfed right next to Steinbrenner. Or, Dimaggio... or Ruth. None of them can hold a candle to the importance of Steinbrenner.
Twins Win AL Central
In honor of the Minnesota Twins wrapping up their claim to the playoffs by winning the AL Central, and beginning their inaugural season at Target Field with some measure of success. Here's a picture of Twins player Michael Cuddyer frolicking in the field while supposedly playing first base.
Matt Diaz is Straight Trippin', Yo!
Ever since this incident:
The police have not been allowed on the field at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Consequently, when someone does decide to be an idiot and runs out onto the field, Citizens Bank Park security are the ones who have to chase him/her down. They, as you'll see in the clip below, aren't all that effective at "running."
That's where Braves outfielder Matt Diaz comes in. Diaz had clearly seen enough of this clown in a red suit, and decided to pull a dirty soccer move on him.
Rumor has it, as the Braves are slowly playing themselves out of playoff contention, Diaz has been contacted by Citizens Bank Park security for a postseason position.
The police have not been allowed on the field at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Consequently, when someone does decide to be an idiot and runs out onto the field, Citizens Bank Park security are the ones who have to chase him/her down. They, as you'll see in the clip below, aren't all that effective at "running."
That's where Braves outfielder Matt Diaz comes in. Diaz had clearly seen enough of this clown in a red suit, and decided to pull a dirty soccer move on him.
Rumor has it, as the Braves are slowly playing themselves out of playoff contention, Diaz has been contacted by Citizens Bank Park security for a postseason position.
Jack Clark is a Doodyhead
Former Cardinal player, and current analyst for the team, Jack Clark, pictured below in all his unibrow glory, said recently that the St. Louis Cardinals have "poopy in their pants." I wish I was making that up, but that, my friends is a direct quote. In case you do think I'm making it up, the audio is directly below his hideous, ogre-like, child-eating smile.
Poopy. In their pants. Poopy. That's a fun word...
Poopy. In their pants. Poopy. That's a fun word...
Colvin the Impaled
Chicago Cubs rookie Tyler Colvin was the victim of mistaken identity against the Florida Marlins recently. Colvin was on third watching the ball hit by Welinton Castillo, when Castillo's broken bat came flying down the line and impaled the young man in the chest in a way that would make Van Helsing proud. I think this falls under the category of things that can only happen to the Cubs.
On the bright side, it was Castillo's first career RBI... way to go, kid!
On the bright side, it was Castillo's first career RBI... way to go, kid!
Yogi Monday!
It's a little later than normal, but welcome to this week's Yogi Monday! We all get a case of the Mondays from time to time. There's no better way to get through a Monday than with a classic quote from one of baseball's greatest quote machines - Yogi Berra.
I'm not going to buy my kids an encyclopedia. Let them walk to school like I did.
Gonzalez Wants No Part of It
Fredi Gonzalez, who had enough sense to bench Hanley Ramirez for a couple of games for slacking off... and then paid for it with his job as manager of the Marlins, has no desire to follow in the footsteps of Bob Brenly, Bobby Valentine and Ryne "Bob" Sandberg. When asked to interview for the job, Gonzalez told Cubs GM Jim Hendry:
Gonzalez joins current Cardinal manager Tony LaRussa, who was "repulsed" when asked about the idea of managing the Cubs next season, on the list of people who openly don't want any part of Wrigleyville.
Apparently former Indians manager Eric Wedge has already applied for the job, and he certainly has to like his chances knowing that the list of candidates is actually growing after he interviewed.
Other possible candidates for the Cubs vacancy:
Pat Listach
Bob Melvin
Mike Quade (current interim manager)
Joe Girardi
John Calipari
William "Refridgerator" Perry
The Ghost of Casey Stengel
A pile of my toenail clippings
Gonzalez joins current Cardinal manager Tony LaRussa, who was "repulsed" when asked about the idea of managing the Cubs next season, on the list of people who openly don't want any part of Wrigleyville.
Apparently former Indians manager Eric Wedge has already applied for the job, and he certainly has to like his chances knowing that the list of candidates is actually growing after he interviewed.
Other possible candidates for the Cubs vacancy:
Pat Listach
Bob Melvin
Mike Quade (current interim manager)
Joe Girardi
John Calipari
William "Refridgerator" Perry
The Ghost of Casey Stengel
A pile of my toenail clippings
On This Date...
...in 1940, Johnny Lucadello became just the second player in history to hit a home run from both sides of the plate in the same game, and the first one to open his career doing so. This was the career high point for the second baseman who played six years in the majors and only hit three more home runs in his career.
Also, on this date, in 1975, Lucadello was spotted in a local tavern in his hometown of Thurber, Texas retelling the story for the 1,493rd time. The crowd was riveted.
Also, on this date, in 1975, Lucadello was spotted in a local tavern in his hometown of Thurber, Texas retelling the story for the 1,493rd time. The crowd was riveted.
Pat White Knows Bo
With the arrival of LeBron James as a free agent to the Miami Heat, things have been heating up in South Beach. And, as a way to balance out the overwhelming sports power in Miami, Dolphins QB Pat White is removing his talents from South Beach. At least that is the story he is sticking with. The official story out of Miami is that the Dolphins released quarterback, who has now signed with the Kansas City Royals.
White is no stranger to baseball, having been drafted by the Angels (2004), Reds (2008) and Yankees (2009) before deciding to pursue football, first at the University of West Virginia, then with the Dolphins. When asked about the move, Royals GM Dayton Moore said, "We are looking at moving in a new direction here in Kansas City. We are exploring what it will take to be the practice squad for the Chiefs, since we can't seem to win any baseball games. Signing Pat is our way of letting management over there know that we are serious about this endeavor. They just laughed at us when we first brought it up."
White is no stranger to baseball, having been drafted by the Angels (2004), Reds (2008) and Yankees (2009) before deciding to pursue football, first at the University of West Virginia, then with the Dolphins. When asked about the move, Royals GM Dayton Moore said, "We are looking at moving in a new direction here in Kansas City. We are exploring what it will take to be the practice squad for the Chiefs, since we can't seem to win any baseball games. Signing Pat is our way of letting management over there know that we are serious about this endeavor. They just laughed at us when we first brought it up."
Francona's Personal Space Issues
Terry Francona (seen above), manager of the Boston Red Sox, has a social disease. He is unaware of the personal space boundaries that most people like to keep. Typically, this would be a problem, but this year, the Red Sox have stayed far enough behind the Yankees and Rays, and far enough ahead of the Blue Jays, that Francona is beginning to understand what the boundaries should be.
"It was crazy," Red Sox outfielder J.D. Drew said. "At the beginning of the season, we'd come in from the field, sit on the bench until we had to get ready to hit, and sometimes, Terry would just sit on our laps. One time, he even put his arm around me and asked me to tell him a story."
When asked about his take on Francona's uncomfortable familiarity, second baseman Dustin Pedroia just hung his head and cried.
So, THAT'S Why They Aren't Doctors
ESPN's Buster Olney tweeted on Tuesday: Andres Torres needed an appendectomy, and rival GMs think that is a procedure that requires major recovery time. "2-3 months," said 1 GM.
Andres Torres is the center fielder for the San Francisco Giants, a team that is in contention, but on the outside looking in. Losing Torres would be a major blow to their playoff chances. However...
Are rival GM's stupid? Even I know that it doesn't take that long to recover from an appendectomy. I'm no doctor, but for a person that is in pretty good shape (as you would expect a center fielder to be), I image it would take about a month at the longest.
Forget the fact that Torres, in a move that would make even Rob Dibble proud, had been playing for a couple games with severe pain in his abdomen, it takes a child about three weeks to heal from an appendectomy. I imagine it wouldn't take 3x's longer for a professional athlete to do the same.
Andres Torres is the center fielder for the San Francisco Giants, a team that is in contention, but on the outside looking in. Losing Torres would be a major blow to their playoff chances. However...
Are rival GM's stupid? Even I know that it doesn't take that long to recover from an appendectomy. I'm no doctor, but for a person that is in pretty good shape (as you would expect a center fielder to be), I image it would take about a month at the longest.
Forget the fact that Torres, in a move that would make even Rob Dibble proud, had been playing for a couple games with severe pain in his abdomen, it takes a child about three weeks to heal from an appendectomy. I imagine it wouldn't take 3x's longer for a professional athlete to do the same.
Masset Forget Where Home Was Located
If you didn't see it, you should check out Chris Nelson's steal of home from a recent Rockies-Reds game. You can check it out here. Go ahead.... I'll wait....
Done? Good.
Okay, now if you'll notice, when Reds pitcher Nick Masset steps off the rubber, he doesn't look towards home. He looks at second base. I guess you could argue that Masset didn't think somebody would be crazy enough to try to record his first career steal by swiping home in a 5-5 game, but then I would counter with the fact that you would be making a stupid argument.
Of course, for the Reds fans who watched their team blow a 5-0 lead in the first place, perhaps this was just the most demoralizing way that they could have lost the game. Regardless, the Reds are still trying to let the Cardinals back into the division race, but the Cardinals do not seem to be interested at this time.
Done? Good.
Okay, now if you'll notice, when Reds pitcher Nick Masset steps off the rubber, he doesn't look towards home. He looks at second base. I guess you could argue that Masset didn't think somebody would be crazy enough to try to record his first career steal by swiping home in a 5-5 game, but then I would counter with the fact that you would be making a stupid argument.
Of course, for the Reds fans who watched their team blow a 5-0 lead in the first place, perhaps this was just the most demoralizing way that they could have lost the game. Regardless, the Reds are still trying to let the Cardinals back into the division race, but the Cardinals do not seem to be interested at this time.
Easiest Article to Write EVER
I came across an article on MLB Trade Rumors looking at teams with potential interest in Rangers pitcher Cliff Lee, who will be a free agent at the end of this season. Understandably, Lee wants to be able to decide where he plays next season and beyond. It's understandable because Lee has played on 4 teams in the last 14 months - Indians, Phillies, Mariners and Rangers. Anyway, the article title is "Teams with Potential Interest in Cliff Lee."
Let me go ahead and write it for you.... ready?
Everybody!!!!!
If a team says that it is not interested, then they are lying, or genuinely not interested in adding a quality starting pitcher to their team... which means they want to lose, and you should no longer root for them.
Let me go ahead and write it for you.... ready?
Everybody!!!!!
If a team says that it is not interested, then they are lying, or genuinely not interested in adding a quality starting pitcher to their team... which means they want to lose, and you should no longer root for them.
You're Out!!!
One of the most exciting parts of a baseball game is the rare occasion when a manager runs out of a dugout to argue with an umpire over a controversial call, things get heated and the manager gets tossed. It's a lot of fun to see some managers get really worked up about things. Sweet Lou was the best at it. That's where his impact on the game will be missed the most, not as a manager, but as on-field, rage-filled entertainment.
If you like those moments in baseball, then you absolutely loved the game in Milwaukee between the Brewers and Cardinals on September 7th. It all began in the 2nd inning when a run scored on pitcher Chris Naverson's double-play groundout. Craig Counsell was called for interference and the run was called back to third. Brewers manager Ken Macha took exception to the call, and was eventually tossed.
Later on, in the third inning, Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan was given the hook by home plate umpire Bob Davidson for arguing balls and strikes from the dugout. Duncan ejection was followed by Brewers OF Chris Dickerson, who was visibly upset at being called out on an inside pitch, slamming down his bat and helmet before getting tossed and hitting the showers.
As if that wasn't enough, Davidson capped off the ejections by throwing out a fan, who had been heckling Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina. So, just to recap, that's a manager, a pitching coach, a player and a fan. On the television broadcast, one of the announcers made the comment, "We better watch what we say, or we might be next."
Oh, by the way, this was also the game when all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman notched his 600th save for his career. However, by the time the save was official, in addition to the above ejections, 14 concession workers, a ball boy, the Cardinals' bullpen catcher, the locker room attendant and Section 326 were all shown the door.
If you like those moments in baseball, then you absolutely loved the game in Milwaukee between the Brewers and Cardinals on September 7th. It all began in the 2nd inning when a run scored on pitcher Chris Naverson's double-play groundout. Craig Counsell was called for interference and the run was called back to third. Brewers manager Ken Macha took exception to the call, and was eventually tossed.
Later on, in the third inning, Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan was given the hook by home plate umpire Bob Davidson for arguing balls and strikes from the dugout. Duncan ejection was followed by Brewers OF Chris Dickerson, who was visibly upset at being called out on an inside pitch, slamming down his bat and helmet before getting tossed and hitting the showers.
As if that wasn't enough, Davidson capped off the ejections by throwing out a fan, who had been heckling Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina. So, just to recap, that's a manager, a pitching coach, a player and a fan. On the television broadcast, one of the announcers made the comment, "We better watch what we say, or we might be next."
Oh, by the way, this was also the game when all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman notched his 600th save for his career. However, by the time the save was official, in addition to the above ejections, 14 concession workers, a ball boy, the Cardinals' bullpen catcher, the locker room attendant and Section 326 were all shown the door.
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 wish I had an answer to that because I'm tired of answering that question.
Best Promotion Ever!
As I delve into the world of hyperbole, this is easily the best promotion of all time. The Washington Nationals are offering two free season tickets with the purchase of two. That's right, you and your 3 buddies can get season tickets to see the Washington Nationals and split it up at half the regular price. Isn't that a deal!!!
...it's a sign to Nationals fans that there is no hope for next season. After all, Strasburg is already shut down for most of the season. Harper is going to spend the year in the Minors. Adam Dunn probably won't be back next season. Nyger Morgan will be spending half the season in anger management with Dr. Buddy Rydell. Ryan Zimmerman is bound to have another good season that goes unnoticed. And Top Chef will not be returning for another concession stand challenge. Pack it in, Nationals fans. We'll see you in 2012.
Or...
...it's a sign to Nationals fans that there is no hope for next season. After all, Strasburg is already shut down for most of the season. Harper is going to spend the year in the Minors. Adam Dunn probably won't be back next season. Nyger Morgan will be spending half the season in anger management with Dr. Buddy Rydell. Ryan Zimmerman is bound to have another good season that goes unnoticed. And Top Chef will not be returning for another concession stand challenge. Pack it in, Nationals fans. We'll see you in 2012.
Ah, Minor League Baseball
Here's a fantastic parody of Beyonce's "Single Ladies" brought to you by the Chicago Cubs Double-A affiliate, the Tennessee Smokies. Now, excuse me Weird Al, Imma let you finish, but this is the best parody video of all time. ALL TIME!!!
Choo's Promising Future
Cleveland outfielder Shin-Soo Choo (seen below holding a miniature version of himself) will potentially have to put his career on hold if he isn't a part of a gold-medal winning South Korea team in the Asian Games. All South Korean men must serve two years in the military by the time they are 31. Choo is 28 and has been trying to find a way out of his military service. One option is to lead the South Korean baseball team to a gold-medal victory at the Asian Games. It is customary for gold-medal winning athletes to be excused from this mandatory military service.
Other options include:
Other options include:
- Dressing in drag to confuse the South Koreans, making them think he is female
- Go back in time to be a part of the 1998 or 2002 Asian Games championship teams
- Not suck in 2008 to be a part of the Olympic team that won gold
- Move to Canada, by being traded to the Blue Jays
- Convert to a pitcher and learn to throw a submarine pitch
- Send his Don Johnson look-alike bobblehead in his place - they'll never know the difference
Cards Looking to Replace Suppan With....
...this guy:
This is Bill Lee. He's 63 years old, and still has a pretty fierce glare. According to his MLB.com player profile, Bill is also known as Williams "Spaceman" Lee. Spaceman used to pitch for the the Red Sox and the Expos, where he posted a career 119-90 with a 3.62 ERA. On September 5th, Spaceman pitched once again... for the Brockton Rox, of the Canadian American Association of Professional Baseball League. And he did pretty well, going 5 1/3 and allowing only 2 runs on 5 hits. Spaceman will reportedly pitch for Cardinal scouts next Tuesday.
In honor of Spaceman's performance, how about a video feature his son - Dr. Leo Spaceman.
This is Bill Lee. He's 63 years old, and still has a pretty fierce glare. According to his MLB.com player profile, Bill is also known as Williams "Spaceman" Lee. Spaceman used to pitch for the the Red Sox and the Expos, where he posted a career 119-90 with a 3.62 ERA. On September 5th, Spaceman pitched once again... for the Brockton Rox, of the Canadian American Association of Professional Baseball League. And he did pretty well, going 5 1/3 and allowing only 2 runs on 5 hits. Spaceman will reportedly pitch for Cardinal scouts next Tuesday.
In honor of Spaceman's performance, how about a video feature his son - Dr. Leo Spaceman.
Dodger Fans Not the Most Aware Fans
Big thanks to Deadspin.com for bringing this lovely video to my attention.
There's one very important rule when you are in a baseball stadium and there is somebody at the plate looking to hit the ball, and this rule is even more important when it come to batting practice... because they actually ARE going to hit the ball.
Rule #1 If You Are In a Baseball Stadium And There is Somebody at the Plate: WATCH THE BALL!!!!
That guy's friends must hate him.
Prior Update!!!
News came out that the Texas Rangers have taken a role in the Mark Prior comeback! The Pre-Strasburgian flame-throwing pitcher who came up with the Cubs and has dealt with several injuries over his career has signed a minor league deal with the Rangers, with the future, not 2010, in mind.
Just another reminder that the Kip Wells Comeback Trail really works, friends!
Just another reminder that the Kip Wells Comeback Trail really works, friends!
No Love for Phillips
In the Cardinals-Reds series at the beginning of August, Brandon Phillips had some rather inflammatory remarks for the St. Louis ballclub... calling them "little b*tches." The Cardinals took exception to Phillips' remarks and proceeded to sweep the Reds to reclaim first place in the division - and then went 4-13 to fall 8 games back in the standings. Over Labor Day weekend, the Cardinals hosted the Reds for the first time since Phillips' remarks, and for the last time this season. Cardinal fans let the Reds 2B know that they don't have a short memory.
Phillips received a standing ovation after his first inning strikeout, and was booed for the rest of the game. However, the most interesting part - one of his foul balls was thrown back onto the field. As you would expect, a person is ejected from the stadium after throwing something onto the field, and that was the case in this instance as well. That should be the end of the story.... should be. However, the person that was ejected, according to a tweet over the weekend, was none other than a grandson of Cardinal great Stan Musial. Oops...
Phillips received a standing ovation after his first inning strikeout, and was booed for the rest of the game. However, the most interesting part - one of his foul balls was thrown back onto the field. As you would expect, a person is ejected from the stadium after throwing something onto the field, and that was the case in this instance as well. That should be the end of the story.... should be. However, the person that was ejected, according to a tweet over the weekend, was none other than a grandson of Cardinal great Stan Musial. Oops...
A-Rod, Boras Break-up
After using Scott Boras to negotiate contracts of 10 years, $252 million and 10 years, $275 million, Alex Rodriguez has decided to send a Dear John letter to his agent.
Using the Break Up Letter Generator on DearJohn.com, BLB has obtained the letter sent by A-Rod to Boras to inform him of this decision.
Dear Scott Boras,
I'm terribly sorry I had to do this through a letter, this didn't need to be done, but I wanted to. This note will be the last memory you'll ever have of me, our relationship just isnt working out for me. Don't let it get you all upset inside, we were not a good match. It is because of your history of lying problems that keep me from being even remotely interested in continuing this relationship with you.
You'd be much better off finding a person that can deal with annoying way you stuff your face all day long while watching t.v. on the bed. I might miss certain things about you such as the time you flirted with my father at our family Christmas dinner.
I'm glad this is done and we're going separate directions for good. I think you'll find someone to have a decent conversation with a person of the opposite gender. And hopefully we will be incredibly far away.
Have a nice life,
A-Rod
That's cold, A-Rod, real cold.
Using the Break Up Letter Generator on DearJohn.com, BLB has obtained the letter sent by A-Rod to Boras to inform him of this decision.
Dear Scott Boras,
I'm terribly sorry I had to do this through a letter, this didn't need to be done, but I wanted to. This note will be the last memory you'll ever have of me, our relationship just isnt working out for me. Don't let it get you all upset inside, we were not a good match. It is because of your history of lying problems that keep me from being even remotely interested in continuing this relationship with you.
You'd be much better off finding a person that can deal with annoying way you stuff your face all day long while watching t.v. on the bed. I might miss certain things about you such as the time you flirted with my father at our family Christmas dinner.
I'm glad this is done and we're going separate directions for good. I think you'll find someone to have a decent conversation with a person of the opposite gender. And hopefully we will be incredibly far away.
Have a nice life,
A-Rod
That's cold, A-Rod, real cold.
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 think Little League is wonderful. It keeps the kids out of the house.
Moyer Remembers Teammate
Earlier this year, Robin Roberts, former pitcher for the Phillies and Orioles, passed away. Roberts had a great career pitching for 14 seasons with Philadelphia (1948-'61) and parts of other seasons with the Baltimore, Houston and Wrigleyville ballclubs.
The picture below captures a tender moment in which Jamie Moyer remembers his friend and teammate. When asked to reflect on his fondest memory of Roberts, Moyer gazed off into the distance and recounted the story of a swirly he received from Roberts shortly after his first career win.
The picture below captures a tender moment in which Jamie Moyer remembers his friend and teammate. When asked to reflect on his fondest memory of Roberts, Moyer gazed off into the distance and recounted the story of a swirly he received from Roberts shortly after his first career win.
On This Date...
...in 1917, Grover Cleveland Alexander of the Philadelphia Phillies pitched complete games in both games of a doubleheader, defeating the Dodgers 5-0 and 9-3.
When asked about the recent news regarding Stephen Strasburg, "the Cleve" said, "What a sissy! Back in my day, we just called that [a torn tendon] 'fatigue.' If only Rob Dibble was around to show that kid the ropes."
When asked about the recent news regarding Stephen Strasburg, "the Cleve" said, "What a sissy! Back in my day, we just called that [a torn tendon] 'fatigue.' If only Rob Dibble was around to show that kid the ropes."
Nothing Better To Do in Arizona
Here's a great little video to show you what major league baseball players like to do to mess with their teammates. Kelly Johnson is getting ready to bat for the Diamondbacks when his intro music is a little.... off....
Bright Side for Wakamatsu
As you may remember, Don Wakamatsu was fired as manager of the Seattle Mariners earlier this season.... right before Japanese Heritage Night. On the bright side, Wakamatsu is now free to pursue another life interest: proctology.
That is so juvenile, Matt....
That is so juvenile, Matt....
Nyger Morgan Has Issues
It's been a rough week for Nationals OF Nyger Morgan. He has been involved in more than a couple of dust-ups so far against the competition. It all began on Saturday against the Cardinals when Morgan should have scored from first on a double down the right field line. Watch the video here.
Morgan is clearly upset that he is called out, but if you watch the replay, Cardinals catcher Bryan Anderson is easily two feet away from the plate, when Morgan intentionally initiates contact... so much so that he actually missed the plate. He is called out because his teammates touched him while he was still a "live" runner, i.e. before he scored; you can't do that. Allegedly, Morgan was upset that Nationals manager Jim Riggleman had him eighth in the lineup. Riggleman apologized for the incident and benched Morgan for the following game. Morgan later said, "I kind of grazed [Anderson] which wasn't, in my eyes, intentional." Go ahead and watch that play again. If Morgan had grazed Anderson, you wouldn't see the shoving motion, and Anderson wouldn't have fallen forward and dropped his glove.
This brings us to Tuesday's game in Miami against the Marlins. Morgan once again failed to slide into home, and opted to barrel through the Marlins catcher. Brett Hayes, the Marlins catcher, held on to the ball and Morgan was called out on the play, and the Marlins won in the bottom half of the 10th inning. However, it was not without its price. Hayes separated his shoulder on the play and is done for the year.
And, now, Wednesday's game. Apparently the Marlins were still pretty upset with Morgan because they hit him with a pitch in the fourth inning. In a 14-3 game, Morgan took first on the HBP, then proceeded to steal 2nd and 3rd - the first thing that he actually did right in this series of events. The Marlins apparently took exception to Morgan stealing these bases in a blowout. Personally, I don't see what the issue is. We saw two 9 run comebacks just last week; you play hard and try to win the game. If a Marlins player had been the one stealing the bases, then it would be a different story, but if you're down by 11, you do all you can to get your team back into the game. In response to the stolen bases, Marlins starter Chris Volstad threw behind Morgan in his next AB, which lead to this...
You can't blame Morgan for being upset about being thrown at a second time. What you can blame him for is his reaction to the incident. These are grown men, playing in a professional league; not children playing at the sandlot, but it was pretty difficult to tell the difference.
This is usually the part where I would my some dry, sarcastic remark, but I don't think I'm going to do that today. There's nothing funny about baseball players failing to be a role model for the kids who play the sport. Watch the LLWS. You see a bunch of kids just playing the game and having a great time. That's what this sport is all about - fun and the love of the game.
Morgan is clearly upset that he is called out, but if you watch the replay, Cardinals catcher Bryan Anderson is easily two feet away from the plate, when Morgan intentionally initiates contact... so much so that he actually missed the plate. He is called out because his teammates touched him while he was still a "live" runner, i.e. before he scored; you can't do that. Allegedly, Morgan was upset that Nationals manager Jim Riggleman had him eighth in the lineup. Riggleman apologized for the incident and benched Morgan for the following game. Morgan later said, "I kind of grazed [Anderson] which wasn't, in my eyes, intentional." Go ahead and watch that play again. If Morgan had grazed Anderson, you wouldn't see the shoving motion, and Anderson wouldn't have fallen forward and dropped his glove.
This brings us to Tuesday's game in Miami against the Marlins. Morgan once again failed to slide into home, and opted to barrel through the Marlins catcher. Brett Hayes, the Marlins catcher, held on to the ball and Morgan was called out on the play, and the Marlins won in the bottom half of the 10th inning. However, it was not without its price. Hayes separated his shoulder on the play and is done for the year.
And, now, Wednesday's game. Apparently the Marlins were still pretty upset with Morgan because they hit him with a pitch in the fourth inning. In a 14-3 game, Morgan took first on the HBP, then proceeded to steal 2nd and 3rd - the first thing that he actually did right in this series of events. The Marlins apparently took exception to Morgan stealing these bases in a blowout. Personally, I don't see what the issue is. We saw two 9 run comebacks just last week; you play hard and try to win the game. If a Marlins player had been the one stealing the bases, then it would be a different story, but if you're down by 11, you do all you can to get your team back into the game. In response to the stolen bases, Marlins starter Chris Volstad threw behind Morgan in his next AB, which lead to this...
You can't blame Morgan for being upset about being thrown at a second time. What you can blame him for is his reaction to the incident. These are grown men, playing in a professional league; not children playing at the sandlot, but it was pretty difficult to tell the difference.
This is usually the part where I would my some dry, sarcastic remark, but I don't think I'm going to do that today. There's nothing funny about baseball players failing to be a role model for the kids who play the sport. Watch the LLWS. You see a bunch of kids just playing the game and having a great time. That's what this sport is all about - fun and the love of the game.
Introducing Wes Helms, a.k.a. Spiderman
Here's a lovely picture I came across the other day of Marlins' third baseman Wes Helms as he auditions for the new Spiderman role.
You know what they say, you can see the true character of man when someone he knows is hanging upside down on the dugout fence. Florida manager Edwin Rodriguez (left), good man. Florida third base coach Joey Espada (right), not so much.
Espada looks terrified. Of course, if I got that view of Wes Helms, I think I would be as well.
Wait, is that faceless trainer in the background laughing? I think he is.... I think he is...
You know what they say, you can see the true character of man when someone he knows is hanging upside down on the dugout fence. Florida manager Edwin Rodriguez (left), good man. Florida third base coach Joey Espada (right), not so much.
Espada looks terrified. Of course, if I got that view of Wes Helms, I think I would be as well.
Wait, is that faceless trainer in the background laughing? I think he is.... I think he is...
Word of the Day: Gubernatorial
A minor league team decided to give away gubernatorial candidate bobbleheads in California earlier this month. Apparently, the elections didn't go nearly as smoothly as people would have liked. Of course, it's California at election time, just be happy that they aren't giving away bobbleheads of actors, adult entertainers and 426 other irrelevant persons with ridiculous political aspirations.
The Gross Underbelly of MLB Finances
Apparently some very confidential financial records for some MLB teams got leaked last week to Deadspin.com. Financial records for the Pirates, Angles, Rays, Mariners, Marlins and Rangers were released to the online sports site causing quite a stir in the sports world last week.
Quite frankly, there are too many documents to look through, and I just don't want to take the time, so I'm going to go with the broad generalization that baseball owners make a boatload of money (even the bad teams), and don't spend nearly enough on their teams. Oh, wait, that just confirms what everybody already knows.
Quite frankly, there are too many documents to look through, and I just don't want to take the time, so I'm going to go with the broad generalization that baseball owners make a boatload of money (even the bad teams), and don't spend nearly enough on their teams. Oh, wait, that just confirms what everybody already knows.
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