Official 2008 MLB thread

[Dark Donnie]

^^ Billy Wagner is a moron he has called out teammates everywhere he goes.

[Dark Donnie]

Tom Gordon serving up the Grand Slam :dry:

[Spidey-Bat]

Beltran hit a 2-run walk off homer. Figures he has a good night when I bench him on my fantasy team :o

[Darthphere]

Trevor Hoffman, Kevin Brown, and Livan Hernandez are irrelevant to Dontrelle since they were in the Marlins organization LONG before Willis. Also, Hoffman has only played 3% of his games with the Marlins and that number is only decreasing. Giving the Marlins credit for him is like giving the Dodgers credit for Pedro Martinez.

What the Marlin did was mess up how Willis pitched.

http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/the-d-trains-mechanics-a-video-analysis/

Read that link. The changes made from 2005 to 2007 were done by the Marlins and are the cause of his decline.

Also, AJ Burnett and to a lesser degree Josh Beckett have bad mechanics.

I bet some of the other pitchers in the league might kill for bad mechanics then.

LAWL!

So using this logic, is it the Yankees fault Carl Pavano became a mess?:huh:

[NewYorkSpider]

LAWL!

So using this logic, is it the Yankees fault Carl Pavano became a mess?:huh:


No. Pavano has always been plagued with injuries.

[Kingfish]

Angels have won 8 consecutive series with a semi-punchless offense. Really speaks to how good their rotation is. With Guerrero finally heating up and Figgins hopefully back this weekend, they might really take off.

[MoPlaYa]

Cards will need to pick it up with Phat Albert out for a few weeks

[Bunker]

Soriano got merked, out for 6 weeks with a broken hand

[Spidey-Bat]

I should write a book about the Mets season. You just can't make this **** up...

[Dark Donnie]

I should write about the Mets season. You just can't make this **** up...

Why what happened now?

[Spidey-Bat]

Billy Wagner blew a 2-run lead. Though it was coming apart in the 8th. They get the best performance from Santana all season (7 IP, 3 H, 3 BB, 10K). They've blown 3 big leads (5-1, 3-0, 4-0) this series despite decent hitting and good starting pitching (for the most part. Maine did well for it being 200 degrees). In the last two games, the go-ahead run has been on 2nd in the 9th inning less than 2 outs and there's nothing from the crowd. This team deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as Cleveland and Detroit.

[Showtime]

They really need to dump randolph, he is like a giant maggot in a can of trash at this point.

[Showtime]

So using this logic, is it the Yankees fault Carl Pavano became a mess?:huh:

Carl Pavano was born with a baseball cap and a sore arm.

[Spidey-Bat]

They really need to dump randolph, he is like a giant maggot in a can of trash at this point.

Yep. He let their complacency grow last year and it's become a huge problem. A reporter said players were jealous of the Phillies because they don't have the toughness they do which I blame on the manager. Willie is incredibly lucky he's from NY and was a NY player. If he wasn't and never played in NY, he'd be gone a long time ago. I feel terrible saying this but I rather see them be swept by the Rangers so something finally happens.

I wish the Mets were a smart organization like the Red Sox and put time and effort in the draft. When the Red Sox need to plug holes, they bring up Masterson and Lowrie. The Mets' solutions? Fernando Tatis and Nelson Figuerora. No wonder one team won a WS and the other collapsed.

[NewYorkSpider]

Yankees are doing it again. Pettite is pitching a decent ballgame, but no run support from the offense.

edit: Thank god for Matsui. Hits grand slam.

[Showtime]

Yep. He let their complacency grow last year and it's become a huge problem. A reporter said players were jealous of the Phillies because they don't have the toughness they do which I blame on the manager. Willie is incredibly lucky he's from NY and was a NY player. If he wasn't and never played in NY, he'd be gone a long time ago. I feel terrible saying this but I rather see them be swept by the Rangers so something finally happens.

I really think that it is the right move, it can provide a change of pace, and the right manager just might trigger something to happen.

I wish the Mets were a smart organization like the Red Sox and put time and effort in the draft. When the Red Sox need to plug holes, they bring up Masterson and Lowrie. The Mets' solutions? Fernando Tatis and Nelson Figuerora. No wonder one team won a WS and the other collapsed.

The Red Sox only recently became smart, they were following a similar philosphy for years and years. There is luck involved as well.

[Spidey-Bat]

I really think that it is the right move, it can provide a change of pace, and the right manager just might trigger something to happen.
I think it's the right move. Ken Rosenthal had an article today saying the Mets brass did not like Willie letting Pelfrey start the 8th and then bringing Wagner in (Wagner has like a 7 ERA in 6 innings when he's come in the middle of an inning). That game was yesterday and they won it. Today he let Smith pitch too long and didn't have anyone warming up as back up for Smith or Wagner.

The Red Sox only recently became smart, they were following a similar philosphy for years and years. There is luck involved as well.
They've still set the foundations to have a very good team for several years. The Mets are teetering on the edge of competing and rebuilding and it's tipping more and more towards rebuilding (which is especially bad since they don't have any desirable players save for the guys they need to keep).

[Spidey-Bat]

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/baseball/mlb/06/13/heyman.randolphupdate/index.html

There is a light at the end of the tunnel

Willie Randolph's status as Mets manager is extremely tenuous now. General manager Omar Minaya is seriously considering changing managers and at least a couple of the team's coaches, sources told SI.com.

A Mets official indicated that nothing was expected to be decided today regarding Randolph's status. But that doesn't preclude something from happening later this weekend. Front-office sources indicate his hold on the job is shaky, at best.

Should Randolph be fired, bench coach Jerry Manuel will take over, sources told SI.com.

Minaya and other club higher-ups met Thursday to discuss the deteriorating fortunes of the team and what can be done about it. Minaya is considered extremely loyal by co-workers and has been Randolph's greatest supporter for weeks. As one Mets person put it, "Willie's his guy.'' However, Randolph's detractors have become more vocal in recent days, and there seems to be a general feeling that something major needs to be done to reinvigorate the club.

Mets people believe they can't start completely anew and would prefer to at least employ someone who's witnessed the first portion of the schedule up close. Manuel, a former Manager of the Year with the White Sox, would be given the season to see whether he can turn things around.

Minaya is also weighing other changes, which could include removing hitting coach Howard Johnson and pitching coach Rick Peterson, sources indicate. Some organization people believe sweeping changes must be tried in order to jump-start the disappointing team.

Triple-A New Orleans pitching coach Dan Warthen would be a candidate to take over for Peterson.

Randolph's contract runs through 2009 and calls for him to be paid $2 million this year and $2.25 million next year.

Foxsports.com reported yesterday that Minaya's status was "day to day."

The Mets are 31-34, tied for third in the NL East with the Braves and 7.5 games behind the first-place Phillies.

Making Jerry Manuel the manager is a mistake. But who expects this organization to do something right?

[Spidey-Bat]

MLB wants to implement instant replay for HR calls (fair or foul) by August 1st so it's ready for the playoffs. They were originally going to experiment in the Arizona Fall League, WBC, and maybe ST in 2009 but they apparently have had enough. I think they're waiting for the owners to approve.

[NewYorkSpider]

I hope this works out and doesn't turn into a disaster. I'm sure we'll have coaches/players/GM's/managers ***** about calls that they think were called wrong.

[Showtime]

I think it's the right move. Ken Rosenthal had an article today saying the Mets brass did not like Willie letting Pelfrey start the 8th and then bringing Wagner in (Wagner has like a 7 ERA in 6 innings when he's come in the middle of an inning). That game was yesterday and they won it. Today he let Smith pitch too long and didn't have anyone warming up as back up for Smith or Wagner.

I think the losses and vocal disdain for his services as manager are playing with his mind. Some of his decicions are inconsistent to say the least.

They've still set the foundations to have a very good team for several years. The Mets are teetering on the edge of competing and rebuilding and it's tipping more and more towards rebuilding (which is especially bad since they don't have any desirable players save for the guys they need to keep).

I agree. Every year they seem to be bringing up two or three guys that help the team then end up as starters the next season. It is the only way to do it in modern baseball. I think the Mets fell into a similar hole as the Yankees are now in with aging veterans and fading stars.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/baseball/mlb/06/13/heyman.randolphupdate/index.html

There is a light at the end of the tunnel

Making Jerry Manuel the manager is a mistake. But who expects this organization to do something right?

Jerry Manuel? I understand the decision in theory, but I don't agree with it.

[BlackLantern]

I am taking a break from baseball for a while.....

[Spidey-Bat]

I think the losses and vocal disdain for his services as manager are playing with his mind. Some of his decicions are inconsistent to say the least.
He's bad with the relievers. He has a short leash with some guys, too long with others. He needs to start inning with guys more often. I think Jorge Sosa's struggles early in the season were b/c of Randolph.

I agree. Every year they seem to be bringing up two or three guys that help the team then end up as starters the next season. It is the only way to do it in modern baseball. I think the Mets fell into a similar hole as the Yankees are now in with aging veterans and fading stars
If only the Mets' aging starts were actually good.

Jerry Manuel? I understand the decision in theory, but I don't agree with it.
I don't either. They need someone from outside the organization to come in.

[Showtime]

He's bad with the relievers. He has a short leash with some guys, too long with others. He needs to start inning with guys more often. I think Jorge Sosa's struggles early in the season were b/c of Randolph.

We call that Gradyitis.

If only the Mets' aging starts were actually good.

They need to repackage themselves.

I don't either. They need someone from outside the organization to come in.

Doesnt make sense to continue with the same regime, they need to cut the head off the fish and make sure they take the eyes with it. New manager from outside is the only way to go.

[Spidey-Bat]

We call that Gradyitis.
They were smart and got rid of it early. Mets let it fester into this disaster.

They need to repackage themselves.
They need to go. It sucks Castillo is signed for 4 years. If it was two or even three, the Cardinals might have some interest in him and we could get some young guy out of him.

Doesnt make sense to continue with the same regime, they need to cut the head off the fish and make sure they take the eyes with it. New manager from outside is the only way to go.
Agreed. I hope that Manuel being the successor is just speculation by Heyman. If he is the interim manager for the rest of the year, I'm giving up on this team.

[Showtime]

They were smart and got rid of it early. Mets let it fester into this disaster.

I actually thought Grady was a pretty good manager, he will be forever remembered for what he did in that Yankee Series around here.

They need to go. It sucks Castillo is signed for 4 years. If it was two or even three, the Cardinals might have some interest in him and we could get some young guy out of him.

I think they need to get a new manager in and make a big move to stir the pot. Send one of those veterans somewhere for some young players if possible and if there is value.

Agreed. I hope that Manuel being the successor is just speculation by Heyman. If he is the interim manager for the rest of the year, I'm giving up on this team.

I hope so. I just don't see the benefit, I understand that they want somebody who knows what is going on so they can remedy it, but I think the best remedy is to bring in a fresh mind with new ideas to right the ship. All is not lost yet.

[Spidey-Bat]

I actually thought Grady was a pretty good manager, he will be forever remembered for what he did in that Yankee Series around here.2004 made up for it at least.


I think they need to get a new manager in and make a big move to stir the pot. Send one of those veterans somewhere for some young players if possible and if there is value.
None of the veterans on this team that are expendable are desireable by any team. Maybe if a team in contention loses a DH for the season they have some interest in Delgado. Maybe the Cards are stupid and want Castillo like I mentioned.

I hope so. I just don't see the benefit, I understand that they want somebody who knows what is going on so they can remedy it, but I think the best remedy is to bring in a fresh mind with new ideas to right the ship. All is not lost yet.
I don't get why they are taking this route. It sounds now like Willie has this series to turn things around which is completely stupid as there is 60 some games for them to judge him on, 2 or 3 wins doesn't mean this team has turned a corner. There's still a lot of baseball, but I don't see the team as it is today making a run. They need a power bat in the OF and a new manager to do that.

[Dark Donnie]

Phillies put up another 20 spot....

[Spidey-Bat]

Saw the highlights of that game on Baseball Tonight. Absolutely ridiculous that the Cards pitcher and La Russa got ejected for throwing at Howard's belt and then none of the Phillies got ejected for throwing behind Cards hitter. Awful umpiring.

Mets win and acquired Trot Nixon from the D'backs (which I like since he's an improvement in the OF).

[Dark Donnie]

I didn't even know he still played....did he start in Ari, or platoon?

[Spidey-Bat]

I think he was in their minor leagues. He'll be with the team tomorrow.

[Dark Donnie]

I think he was in their minor leagues. He'll be with the team tomorrow.

Oh ok, who will he replace out there?

[Spidey-Bat]

Probably the catcher that just got called up with Alwho going on the DL.

[NewYorkSpider]

Yankees coming around winning 7 of 10. Chamberlain pitched very well with the exception of a few passed balls and walks. Jeter then hit the go ahead HR in the 8th and Farnsworth closed the game.

[Kingfish]

Jeez, I didn't know Trot Nixon still played. I guess with that many hurt outfielders you get desperate.

Ugly ninth inning in Anaheim. The ump had a pretty questionable called third strike on Kendrick with Izturis running. Then, looking back and assuming it was a ball, Izturis just stopped running before he got to the base and was thrown out easily. It was a bad call, but you can't just pull up and assume it's a walk. Even with the strikeout, they'd still have been in a decent position to mount a comeback. Maicer's a great clutch hitter, but sometimes I really question his instincts and makeup as a player.

[Spidey-Bat]

I feel like making playoff predictions:

Angels over Yankees*
Red Sox over White Sox

Angels over Red Sox

Cards* over Phillies
Cubs over D'backs

Cubs over Cards

Angels over Cubs

[Kingfish]

Woot. Those are the kind of predictions I like to see. I'd love for the Cubs to make it there and then have the Angels snatch it away from them.

[Excel]

So I just had the most informative game of golf in my life. Played a friends buddy who works at NESN... appearently the Sox got their own little case of "desperate housewives"...

-Arroyo and Mrs. Ramirez
-Orlando Cabrera and Mrs. Ramirez
-Tek has a girl in every city they play in (and they all think they're the only one)
-Crisp n Mrs. Schilling (this one appearently is still quiet)

All of these are legit...the last one with Coco and Shonda was recent and is suspected ast the reason Schilling suddenly couldn't pitch but didnt want to retire...

Why you think Cabrera and Arroyo left?? Manny gets pissed and wants to be traded so his wife stops cheating but Theo just gets rid of em = Manny happy

For the NESN-ers

-Foulke N hazel Mae
-Gary DiScarcina & n Hazel Mae

These are legit.

[BlackLantern]

Hazel Mae just left NESN didn't she?? where is she headed to??

[Excel]

Dunno but she is a babe...props to Foulke; maybe thats why you had such a ****ty season...to distracted???

http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/16328/45_2007/hazel1.jpg

[BlackLantern]

She left NESN earlier this month citing it as a "personal decision".....

[omid17]

damn she's fine :)

[Spidey-Bat]

I'd never be surprised if a baseball player was having affairs but some of that seems a bit far fetched.

[Excel]

Trust me, they are legit. This guy would know. He also said Cervasio was untouchable and that J.D. Drew is the most respectable guy in the clubhouse...


And what was somewhat obvious, none of the player care for Orsillo.

[Spidey-Bat]

Drew more respectable than Papi? Say it ain't so, Joe!

[Dark Donnie]

I feel like making playoff predictions:

Angels over Yankees*
Red Sox over White Sox

Angels over Red Sox

Cards* over Phillies
Cubs over D'backs

Cubs over Cards

Angels over Cubs

The only team I think that could beat the Phillies in the NL is the Cubs...just my opinion though.

[Spidey-Bat]

The only team I think that could beat the Phillies in the NL is the Cubs...just my opinion though.

It seems like that now because the Phillies are hot. Cardinals will also be getting Chris Carpenter back later in the season. They're also playing without Wainwright and Pujols. I don't believe Mulder is coming back though, his career seems to be over, unfortunately.

[Dark Donnie]

It seems like that now because the Phillies are hot. Cardinals will also be getting Chris Carpenter back later in the season. They're also playing without Wainwright and Pujols. I don't believe Mulder is coming back though, his career seems to be over, unfortunately.
They've been playing hot for most of the year, they usually start off slow, but it's different this year.
I mean there tied for the third best record in the league.

He had another shoulder surgery right?

[Spidey-Bat]

Phillies can't be hot for 162 years. Eventually they're going to cool off a bit.

I think he has some injury and is trying to avoid surgery by rehab. If he has to have surgery he's just gonna retire.

[NewYorkSpider]

The only team I think that could beat the Phillies in the NL is the Cubs...just my opinion though.

I think that might be your NLCS this year. Both teams look real good.

[NewYorkSpider]

Willy Taveras stole 5 bases tonight. :dry:

[Spidey-Bat]

The Mets aren't going to fire Willie today. Which means after they go 1-5 on this upcoming road trip, we get to go through this song and dance again.

Mets barely lost today. Bullpen gagged badly, offense made a comeback in the 8th but Schneider made a bonehead move of trying to score on a sac fly and was out. Then in the 9th, Delgado hit into a DP 1st and 2nd no out. Nixon worked a walk from 2-2 (made a good debut, 2-3, 2 BB, R, SB), Wright scored on a single from Castro, then a fly out ended it. 2nd game was supposed to start at 4:40 but looks like it's 5:10 at the latest.

[bored]

The Royals are doing this wierd thing. It's where they make the bat contact the ball in a manner that sends it into the field of play, allowing them to run to the bases. I am confused.

[MoPlaYa]

Hopefully Molina will be ok...took a nasty bump

[Spidey-Bat]

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20080616&content_id=2941599&vkey=pr_sea&fext=.jsp&c_id=sea&partnerId=rss_sea

Mariners' GM Bill Bavasi got fired.

I think this means Erik Bedard among others will be traded by the deadline.

[Immortalfire]

The Royals are doing this wierd thing. It's where they make the bat contact the ball in a manner that sends it into the field of play, allowing them to run to the bases. I am confused.

Bizzare :eek:

[Raiden]

The Mets aren't going to fire Willie today. Which means after they go 1-5 on this upcoming road trip, we get to go through this song and dance again.

Mets barely lost today. Bullpen gagged badly, offense made a comeback in the 8th but Schneider made a bonehead move of trying to score on a sac fly and was out. Then in the 9th, Delgado hit into a DP 1st and 2nd no out. Nixon worked a walk from 2-2 (made a good debut, 2-3, 2 BB, R, SB), Wright scored on a single from Castro, then a fly out ended it. 2nd game was supposed to start at 4:40 but looks like it's 5:10 at the latest.

I don't know why Mets' owner still won't pull the trigger on Willie. After that historic collapse last year, he really needed to have the team contend for the division, and right now it looks like they won't even make the playoff. After signing Santana to be huge payroll, they cannot afford to suck, and they will continue to suck under Willie Randolph.

[BlackLantern]

He won't get fired because there isn't anyone suitable to fill his position....at least not yet anyway

[Excel]

Getting repetitive, but J.D. Drew has really stepped up his game.

[NewYorkSpider]

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20080616&content_id=2941599&vkey=pr_sea&fext=.jsp&c_id=sea&partnerId=rss_sea

Mariners' GM Bill Bavasi got fired.

I think this means Erik Bedard among others will be traded by the deadline.

I heard Bedard could be dealt to Philly. Yankees could make a run for him with Wang out untill September.

[MoPlaYa]

Yankees should sign Ponson...lol

[Kingfish]

Angels putting some runs up against the Met's bullpen. Breath held...

Oh well.

[BlackLantern]

ESPNNEWS is reporting Willie Randolph has been fired

[Dark Donnie]

ESPN:
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3447973

Rotoworld:
Mets fire Randolph, Peterson

Mets fired manager Willie Randolph, pitching coach Rick Peterson and first-base coach Tom Nieto.

A bizarre ending to what's turned into quite an embarrassment for the franchise. Randolph's tactics left a lot to be desired and the Mets may well be better off without him, but he didn't deserve to be treated this way over the last several weeks. The rumor all day was that Peterson and Nieto were out, but it appeared that Randolph would get another reprieve. Then the Mets make this announcement in the middle of the night after a victory. Former White Sox manager Jerry Manuel will take over for Randolph on an interim basis. As overmatched as he was in Chicago, it looks like a downgrade. Jun. 17 - 3:33 am et

[Spidey-Bat]

I don't know where to begin. I'm absolutely appalled as to how they handled this. They should have done it Friday and end it. Now the Mets' front office looks like absolute idiots. I really don't think Minaya wanted to do it since it happened at 3:15 AM EST and he wasn't available to comment.

Firing the pitching coach is stupid. I know a lot of the pitchers liked him and he's the reason why Maine is a #2, Perez is at worst a serviceable #5, and Feliciano and Smith are effective. Pelfrey also liked him a lot.

Firing the 1B Coach is absolutely useless. I guess he wasn't collecting the shin guards well enough.

I've given up on this team turning it around this year. Manuel is not the guy to do it (need someone from outside the team), firing the coaches does nothing (they should know from last year), and it's obvious there's disconnect between the owners and Minaya. This team has no hope as long as the owners (Fred and Jeff Wilpon, father and son respectively) run this team. There is neither half a brain nor pair of balls between them.

[Dark Donnie]

Firing the 1B Coach is absolutely useless. I guess he wasn't collecting the shin guards well enough.


:lmao: That was quite funny...

[Showtime]

I think it was a good move to get rid of Randolph, but when they start getting rid of the Hot Dog vendors and the Grounds Crew, it begins to smell of desperation. I can't believe they didn't get anybody else in there to light a fire under their asses. Charlie Manuel looks like he is going to fall asleep at the drop of a bat.

[BlackLantern]

so now Hank Steinbrenner wants to blame the NL for Wang being hurt....well maybe if the ***** AL played real baseball without the ***** DH rule, this wouldn't be a problem....

[Raiden]

I don't know where to begin. I'm absolutely appalled as to how they handled this. They should have done it Friday and end it. Now the Mets' front office looks like absolute idiots. I really don't think Minaya wanted to do it since it happened at 3:15 AM EST and he wasn't available to comment.

Firing the pitching coach is stupid. I know a lot of the pitchers liked him and he's the reason why Maine is a #2, Perez is at worst a serviceable #5, and Feliciano and Smith are effective. Pelfrey also liked him a lot.

Firing the 1B Coach is absolutely useless. I guess he wasn't collecting the shin guards well enough.

I've given up on this team turning it around this year. Manuel is not the guy to do it (need someone from outside the team), firing the coaches does nothing (they should know from last year), and it's obvious there's disconnect between the owners and Minaya. This team has no hope as long as the owners (Fred and Jeff Wilpon, father and son respectively) run this team. There is neither half a brain nor pair of balls between them.

I was one of the advocates for firing Randolph, but I think Mets did it very wrong. They could've fired him when they were beaten by 'Backs last week, but instead chose to do so when Mets are in California, and after they defeated the Angels. Their front office is really classless and instead of being open about it, they chose to do it in a fashion that gets the minimum press coverage. I think their next manager should be wary of their firing tactic.

Btw, I don't think they should've fired Petersen, their pitching coach. Whatever the reason for their underwhelming performance, he's not the reason.

[Spidey-Bat]

so now Hank Steinbrenner wants to blame the NL for Wang being hurt....well maybe if the ***** AL played real baseball without the ***** DH rule, this wouldn't be a problem....

I like how he says the NL needs to get with the 21st century. How many pitchers in the NL have injured themselves from running the bases?


I'm really speechless on the Mets.

[Omega Wizard]

Willie Randolph=Pwnd

[Raiden]

Willie Randolph=Pwnd

I don't think Randolph did a good job, and he doesn't deserve to keep his job. But he deserves to exit in a more dignified fashion than this.

[Spidey-Bat]

Absolutely. Willie is a very nice guy and he deserves better. He shouldn't find out he got fired after traveling 3,000 miles across the country on his way to his hotel room.

[FaT_tONle]

ESPN:
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3447973

Rotoworld:

Good riddance... who's replacing him long term though?

[Spidey-Bat]

Jerry Manuel has the rest of the season. He only got the job b/c the Mets had to replace Willie, minority manager, with another minority manager. If they hired a Latino guy, then they'd continue to be labeled a hispanic team.

My guess is Manny Acta resigns as the Nats manager next year and comes to the Mets.

[Raiden]

Mets need to fire Omar, their GM, for putting together the highest payroll in the NL and create such a dysfunctional team that is about 6 games out of the lead in the NL East.

[Spidey-Bat]

He's the only smart, competent person in their front office.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Well Spidey got what he wanted, a fired Willie Randolph to be replaced by...Willie is sheep's clothing Jerry Manuel. Congrats Mets fans:up: And Minaya didn't handle this situation with complete competancy either.

[Spidey-Bat]

I believe he was pressed into it by the owners who wanted Willie gone after last year, but Omar wanted to keep him.

[Dark Donnie]

Still no way to slice it Minaya looks bad. Randolph should have been fired weeks ago.

[Spidey-Bat]

Actually, the front office, specifically the owners, are taking the most heat from this. It seems Omar was the one who wanted to keep Willie and stuck his neck out for him last year.

[Showtime]

so now Hank Steinbrenner wants to blame the NL for Wang being hurt....well maybe if the ***** AL played real baseball without the ***** DH rule, this wouldn't be a problem....

Yeah...nothing like watching pitchers take their hacks on a nightly basis. The AL says, "No Thanks."

[Showtime]

Actually, the front office, specifically the owners, are taking the most heat from this. It seems Omar was the one who wanted to keep Willie and stuck his neck out for him last year.

They should have fired him in the offseason after the downfall, they could have hired somebody that could have made a difference.

[Excel]

Yeah...nothing like watching pitchers take their hacks on a nightly basis. The AL says, "No Thanks."

Did you see Colon the other day? :hehe:

[Spidey-Bat]

They should have fired him in the offseason after the downfall, they could have hired somebody that could have made a difference.

Yep. That was one of Minaya's mistakes, IMO. Though I don't think Willie should have gotten an extension before ST in 2007. I didn't like it then and it turns out I was right.

[NewYorkSpider]

Yeah...nothing like watching pitchers take their hacks on a nightly basis. The AL says, "No Thanks."

I understand why Hank's upset, but to blast the NL for not having a DH is stupid.

[Spidey-Bat]

I heard Bedard could be dealt to Philly. Yankees could make a run for him with Wang out untill September.

Philadelphia doesn't have much, if anything, to offer.

Yeah...nothing like watching pitchers take their hacks on a nightly basis. The AL says, "No Thanks."
A pitcher has 2 plate appearances per game, 3 if they're pitching well. The DH is a stupid rule that was added because the AL wasn't scoring enough runs.

[Dark Donnie]

Philadelphia doesn't have much, if anything, to offer.


A pitcher has 2 plate appearances per game, 3 if they're pitching well. The DH is a stupid rule that was added because the AL wasn't scoring enough runs.

I minor league system is much better then people think, we have plenty of chips of chips to offer, not to mention the price on both Bedard and Sabathia is really low consider there rentals. With that said I wouldn't want to completely kill our farm system again, its just beginning to get some talent again.

Carrasco, Cardenas, Outman, Savery are pretty good.

[NewYorkSpider]

Phillies have been in the rumor mill for Bedard, but I doubt that they make a move for him. He would make the Phillies a better team, but why give up future prospects for a guy who would only be on loan for the rest of the season. Plus, Bedard is injury prone. If anything you'll see a team that's boderline with the playoffs probably get Bedard. Brewers, Indians and any of the NL west teams(minus Arizona) will try and trade with the Mariners.

[Spidey-Bat]

I minor league system is much better then people think, we have plenty of chips of chips to offer, not to mention the price on both Bedard and Sabathia is really low consider there rentals. With that said I wouldn't want to completely kill our farm system again, its just beginning to get some talent again.

Carrasco, Cardenas, Outman, Savery are pretty good.Bedard has 2 years plus Ms will want a lot b/c they gave up a lot for him. Indians won't give CC away. Also, check if they have no trade protection or clauses. Doubt they'd go to that bandbox if other teams are pursuing them. Yankees will definitely pursue one since Wang is out and Hank missed out on Santana will want a legit ace.

Any of the Phillies prospects righty 3b or OF with power? That is what they really need. Ms probably want SP since they'd only have Felix after dealing Bedard.

[NewYorkSpider]

Bedard has 2 years left? I must have read something wrong somewhere.

[Kingfish]

Went to the game tonight. Lackey was pretty dominant, and it looks like the offense is finally starting to heat up.

Honestly, the entire Met's team looks and feels like a gigantic mess. Their defense was absolutely pathetic tonight.

[Dark Donnie]

Bedard has 2 years plus Ms will want a lot b/c they gave up a lot for him. Indians won't give CC away. Also, check if they have no trade protection or clauses. Doubt they'd go to that bandbox if other teams are pursuing them. Yankees will definitely pursue one since Wang is out and Hank missed out on Santana will want a legit ace.

Any of the Phillies prospects righty 3b or OF with power? That is what they really need. Ms probably want SP since they'd only have Felix after dealing Bedard.

Bedard has 2 years left? I must have read something wrong somewhere.

Oh really? I was under the impression that his contract was up at the end of the year, my bad...i'll look into the other stuff.

They have Greg Golson, who has nice pop. The scouting report read something like "tools out the wazoo but no polish" he's probably at the least a year away.

[Spidey-Bat]

Went to the game tonight. Lackey was pretty dominant, and it looks like the offense is finally starting to heat up.

Honestly, the entire Met's team looks and feels like a gigantic mess. Their defense was absolutely pathetic tonight.

Delgado is a butcher at 1B. Tatis hadn't played 3B since he got called up from AAA. Damion Easley shouldn't even be on the field, let alone at SS. Marlon Anderson is a natural 2B who also shouldn't be playing the OF.

I watched Weaver last night. I don't like his mechanics that much. He's slow to the plate, when he brings his arm back his palm faces 1B (should face 3B for righties) and he drops his arm slot sometimes (slower, flatter pitches), and his mullet.

[Captain Planet!]

Well, looks like we got the good end of the Bedard deal. :hehe:

[Showtime]

Did you see Colon the other day? :hehe:

Case in point, now the guy is on the DL.

Yep. That was one of Minaya's mistakes, IMO. Though I don't think Willie should have gotten an extension before ST in 2007. I didn't like it then and it turns out I was right.

It is so much smarter to cut off these guys in the offseason if given the chance, ie The Red Sox with Grady Little.

I understand why Hank's upset, but to blast the NL for not having a DH is stupid.

That is ridiculous, I wouldn't want the NL to adopt the DH, just like I wouldn't want the AL to do away with it.

[NewYorkSpider]

There's rumors going around of Willie Randolph rejoining the Yankees.

Also, the Yankees signed Sidney Ponson today to a minor league deal. :dry:

[Spidey-Bat]

Cashman said he didn't want to talk about Willie today.

Yankees signed Ponson after the Cards dumped him in 06. He started one game for them. Game 2 of the 5-game massacre. I went to it. Longest 9-inning game in history.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Cashman said he didn't want to talk about Willie today.

Yankees signed Ponson after the Cards dumped him in 06. He started one game for them. Game 2 of the 5-game massacre. I went to it. Longest 9-inning game in history.

He will punch Hank in the face, for no reason. I'm calling this.

[Lauryn2000]

I understand why Hank's upset, but to blast the NL for not having a DH is stupid.

If Hank had spoken up for "all" AL pitchers hurt while playing in NL game,he would be taken more serious.But it's a Yankee thing,so expect this to come and go.

[Spidey-Bat]

The fact that is was Wang made him say it. If it was Kei Igawa, he wouldn't give a rat's ass.

[Superman79]

So, yeah...I never thought I'd say this, but:

I am so glad we signed JD Drew

[Dark Donnie]

...
Mets manager Jerry Manuel: 'I'm a gangster'

Explaining what happened when Jose Reyes put up a fight when asked to leave Tuesday's game with a hamstring injury, manager Jerry Manuel joked: "I told him next time he does that I'm going to get my blade out and cut him. I'm a gangster. You go gangster on me, I'm going to have to get you. You do that again, I'm going to cut you right on the field."

Manuel has been on the job for less than a week, but that has to be the leader in the clubhouse for managerial Quote of the Year. He was known as a relatively laid back manager while with the White Sox, but has apparently been sharpening his blades and taking gangster lessons since then. Reyes returned to the lineup Wednesday and went 3-for-5 with a steal, three runs and zero incidents of going gangster. Jun. 19 - 9:28 am et
Source: New York Daily News

[Kingfish]

That quote would be hilarious if it wasn't kinda sad.

[BlackLantern]

Jerry will ****ing cut you....

[Immortalfire]

He'll make you an offer you can't refuse.

[Showtime]

There's rumors going around of Willie Randolph rejoining the Yankees.

Also, the Yankees signed Sidney Ponson today to a minor league deal. :dry:

They're hoping Randolph can be gangster and Ponson can be Colon.

[bored]

Royals swept the Cardinals :word:

[Spidey-Bat]

...

When he said that every reporter laughed and knew he was joking.

That quote would be hilarious if it wasn't kinda sad.

You know what's really sad? Your lights out closer blowing it with 2 outs in the 9th :oldrazz:

[Captain Planet!]

...
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn169/barnold311/Gangsta.jpg

[Dodger]

Dodgers swept the Red :up: Last time we won 3 in a row is when we swept the Red in may.

So...the answers to our problems? We play the reds all the TIME.

[Kingfish]

You know what's really sad? Your lights out closer blowing it with 2 outs in the 9th :oldrazz:

Yeah, that was pretty lame.

But I'll still take the guy with 2 blown saves over the loud-mouthed jackass with 5.:lmao:

[MoPlaYa]

Cards should sign Bonds!!!

[Showtime]

Just heard Shilling on the radio. He is having season ending surgery on Monday, which translates into his career is over.

[Raiden]

Nice to see Yanks putting together a 7-game winning streak, and I hope we get Wang back within 6 weeks (as scheduled). Also the middle relief held up nicely without having Joba there, and I hope it's not a mirage.

[Captain Planet!]

George Sherrill owns.

[Spidey-Bat]

Yeah, that was pretty lame.

But I'll still take the guy with 2 blown saves over the loud-mouthed jackass with 5.:lmao:

Hey, me too.

[Eddie Brock]

If Brett Myers puts up another lousy performance against the Angels, it's time to give his spot away. The guy has been playing like trash - with no signs of improvement.

[Dark Donnie]

If Brett Myers puts up another lousy performance against the Angels, it's time to give his spot away. The guy has been playing like trash - with no signs of improvement.

A move will be on the horizon...there going to go after a quality arm come deadline.

[Eddie Brock]

A move will be on the horizon...there going to go after a quality arm come deadline.
I pray for that day. Charlie Manuel seems to have way too much faith in a pitcher who clearly hasn't earned it this year. And it's time to stop coddling him. Maybe a little fear for his spot will motivate him to get back on his game - if that's even possible at this point.

[Spidey-Bat]

John Gibbons and his coaching staff got fired. Cito Gaston got hired. Gaston was the manager of the '92, '93 Blue Jays teams that won the WS.

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20080620&content_id=2968048&vkey=pr_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor

[BlackLantern]

I thought Cito had been retired....guess he still has the itch

[Kingfish]

Adam Dunn is having a little war of words with J.P. Ricciardi

http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/postedsports/archive/2008/06/19/jays-notebook-dunn-swings-right-back-at-ricciardi.aspx

Best Line:

If anything happens, I ain't going to Toronto," Dunn said. "I can eliminate one team. I'm not converting my dollars to loonies and toonies just yet.

[omid17]

Just heard Shilling on the radio. He is having season ending surgery on Monday, which translates into his career is over.:hehe:

[Showtime]

:hehe:

Well he helped the Red Sox win two World Series and they are in first place without him. So yeah, the fans and the organization is laughing it up. :cwink:

[Kingfish]

How will the Red Sox ever be able to win without Schilling's over-hyped postseason dramatics and ketchup-stained socks providing analysts with stuff to talk about?

[Spidey-Bat]

How will the Red Sox ever be able to win without Schilling's over-hyped postseason dramatics and ketchup-stained socks providing analysts with stuff to talk about?

Overhyped? In 19 post-season starts, he's 11-2 with a 2.23 ERA, 125 Ks, 25 BB in 133.1 IP. He also has 2 complete games.

I don't like Schilling but you can't dismiss his great post-season numbers.

[Captain Planet!]

Yep, George Sherrill still owns.

[Bunker]

Yep, George Sherrill still owns.

His whole career with the Mariners was really meh, I remember screaming NO! whenever they brought him in, half the time he would blow the lead. Glad to see he's finally having success, the Mariners are too pathetic to watch nowadays.

[Omega Wizard]

Got back from the braves game.

I swear, everytime they go, they lose by AT LEAST 9 runs. But I got to sit next to a Mariners fan with a bag on his head, got a good laugh from that.

[NewYorkSpider]

Jeter voted most overrated player. :whatever: And how did A-Rod, David Wright and Kevin Youkilis make the list? Neither of those three are overrated.

[Omega Wizard]

All hail the sacred tomahawk chopping chik-fil-a cow.

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/1807/moooooooosc8.jpg
:up:

[Kingfish]

Overhyped? In 19 post-season starts, he's 11-2 with a 2.23 ERA, 125 Ks, 25 BB in 133.1 IP. He also has 2 complete games.

I don't like Schilling but you can't dismiss his great post-season numbers.

I'm not really dismissing his numbers. I'm dismissing his ketchup-stained sock and arrogant attitude as postseason drama. Curt Schilling as a human being is overhyped.

[BlackLantern]

Ketchup doesn't stain red....it stains brown....

[Showtime]

Red Sox wore their green jerseys to honor the Celtics Championship.

http://cache.boston.com/resize/bonzai-fba/Globe_Photo/2008/06/21/1214028717_3214/539w.jpg

[Bunker]

Did you see Pierce's first pitch? :funny:

Just a bit outside.

[Spidey-Bat]

Jeter voted most overrated player. :whatever: And how did A-Rod, David Wright and Kevin Youkilis make the list? Neither of those three are overrated.

Jeter is overrated. All he does really is hit for a high average. He's only hit 20+ HR 3 times in his career, he's only had a 400+ OBP 3 times, he's only stolen 30+ bases 3 times in his career and his SB totals have fluctuated a lot. I'm not one to consider RBI's a great statistic but he's only had 100+ once. He's overrated because of his post-season numbers. His defense has been average or below his entire career. It's grossly overrated because of his "flip" and "dive" plays. Also his spin-and-throw move is more for show. The reason you don't see guys like Reyes, Rollins, or Tulowitzki do it is because they have the speed to get to the ball, plant themselves, and throw it.

An interesting fact with Jeter: His career BABip is .359. Which means in his entire career, he has been incredibly lucky with balls he hits in play.

He's still a HoF and one of the best SS in this generation (he's 2nd to A-Rod in career, 2nd to Nomar in peak). If he didn't play in NY, especially for the Yankees, he'd be underrated. I heard fans calling into radio talk shows yesterday and most of them said players were just jealous of Jeter which I find to be a stupid rationale.

People hate A-Rod. Wright is overrated, but his best years are ahead of him. Youkilis I would argue is underrated by most people.

[Darthphere]

I'm not really dismissing his numbers. I'm dismissing his ketchup-stained sock and arrogant attitude as postseason drama. Curt Schilling as a human being is overhyped.

Ketchup doesn't stain red....it stains brown....

I mean seriously, it was blood. Just like people saying Pierce faked his knee injury in the Finals what possible reason would Schilling have to stain his sock red? To pump up his teammates? I doubt that they would need to be pumped up in the freaking ALCS.:huh:

[BlackLantern]

I mean seriously, it was blood. Just like people saying Pierce faked his knee injury in the Finals what possible reason would Schilling have to stain his sock red? To pump up his teammates? I doubt that they would need to be pumped up in the freaking ALCS.:huh:

yea...pretty much...against the Yankees no less.....

[Immortalfire]

Red Sox wore their green jerseys to honor the Celtics Championship.

http://cache.boston.com/resize/bonzai-fba/Globe_Photo/2008/06/21/1214028717_3214/539w.jpg

I hereby classify the Sox' obsession with green as very unhealthy.

[Showtime]

yea...pretty much...against the Yankees no less.....

To even bother wasting time thinking that was fake is ridiculous.

[Showtime]

I hereby classify the Sox' obsession with green as very unhealthy.

I agree.

http://www.redsoxjersey.net/green.jpg

http://travisliles.com/RedSox_pictures/4_20_07/1177125172_8842.jpg

[NewYorkSpider]

Jeter is overrated. All he does really is hit for a high average. He's only hit 20+ HR 3 times in his career, he's only had a 400+ OBP 3 times, he's only stolen 30+ bases 3 times in his career and his SB totals have fluctuated a lot. I'm not one to consider RBI's a great statistic but he's only had 100+ once. He's overrated because of his post-season numbers. His defense has been average or below his entire career. It's grossly overrated because of his "flip" and "dive" plays. Also his spin-and-throw move is more for show. The reason you don't see guys like Reyes, Rollins, or Tulowitzki do it is because they have the speed to get to the ball, plant themselves, and throw it.

I found it a bit shocking that people said he was the MOST overrated player. I do agree that he's overrated in a slight way. His diving catch into the stands gets played so much it's not even funny. I was watching the Marlins play last month and Dan Uggla made a diving catch into the stands almost simular to Derek's(except he didn't go face first into the seats). It got a Web Gem and #1 on SportsCenters Top 10 list. That was the last I seen it. I still see Jeter's dive every time Sunday Night Baseball comes on. The Flip in the 2001 ALDS though still amazes me to this day. It's hard for me to say that he's overrated because I'm a Yankee fan. I'll admit that.


An interesting fact with Jeter: His career BABip is .359. Which means in his entire career, he has been incredibly lucky with balls he hits in play.


Jeter, IMO, is going to get around 3,500 hits if he stays healthy. The only way he gets to 4,000 is if he plays every day for the rest of his career. With injuries starting to loom over him, I highly doubt he gets there.


He's still a HoF and one of the best SS in this generation (he's 2nd to A-Rod in career, 2nd to Nomar in peak). If he didn't play in NY, especially for the Yankees, he'd be underrated. I heard fans calling into radio talk shows yesterday and most of them said players were just jealous of Jeter which I find to be a stupid rationale.

Agreed. I'm not one of those fans that think players are jealous of Jeter. I think that's completely ubsurd.

People hate A-Rod. Wright is overrated, but his best years are ahead of him. Youkilis I would argue is underrated by most people.

SI had another players poll the other week and it asked players who they would build a team around. A-Rod ranked #1 and Jeter #2. I still think the overrated list is ridiculous and hysterical. Except for Barry Zito. Although, if Zito were still pitching in Oakland, I think he'd still be great.

[Spidey-Bat]

I found it a bit shocking that people said he was the MOST overrated player. I do agree that he's overrated in a slight way. His diving catch into the stands gets played so much it's not even funny. I was watching the Marlins play last month and Dan Uggla made a diving catch into the stands almost simular to Derek's(except he didn't go face first into the seats). It got a Web Gem and #1 on SportsCenters Top 10 list. That was the last I seen it. I still see Jeter's dive every time Sunday Night Baseball comes on. The Flip in the 2001 ALDS though still amazes me to this day. It's hard for me to say that he's overrated because I'm a Yankee fan. I'll admit that.
His dive was, to be honest, kinda dumb. His flip was a very heads up play but would have been nothing if Jeremy Giambi (?) slid.

Jeter, IMO, is going to get around 3,500 hits if he stays healthy. The only way he gets to 4,000 is if he plays every day for the rest of his career. With injuries starting to loom over him, I highly doubt he gets there.
I believe Rose's record is safe. If Jeter got 200 hits until he was 40, he would fall short.

Agreed. I'm not one of those fans that think players are jealous of Jeter. I think that's completely ubsurd.
The only thing I think they're jealous of is his multiple championships which I can get. But I don't think they're so angry and jealous they would call him overrated because of it.

SI had another players poll the other week and it asked players who they would build a team around. A-Rod ranked #1 and Jeter #2. I still think the overrated list is ridiculous and hysterical. Except for Barry Zito. Although, if Zito were still pitching in Oakland, I think he'd still be great.
I don't get why anyone would build around A-Rod or Jeter. A 33/34 year old SS/3B should not be the cornerstone of a franchise no matter how good they are. I would build around David Wright, Jose Reyes, Hanley Ramirez, Felix Hernandez, Tim Lincecum, Prince Fielder, Geovany Soto, and Russell Martin before those two.

As for Zito, he's overpaid; not overrated. I have yet to hear anyone say he's a good pitcher.

[NewYorkSpider]

His dive was, to be honest, kinda dumb. His flip was a very heads up play but would have been nothing if Jeremy Giambi (?) slid.

I'm not sure why Giambi didn't slide. I'm guessing who ever was on-deck must have held his hands up because Shane Spencer missed the cut-off man?



I believe Rose's record is safe. If Jeter got 200 hits until he was 40, he would fall short.


I think so too. I really doubt you'll see someone reach 4,000 hits in awhile.


The only thing I think they're jealous of is his multiple championships which I can get. But I don't think they're so angry and jealous they would call him overrated because of it.


I think it also has to do with the celebrity spotlight. Look at Tom Brady of the Patriots. I constantly here people say they hate him because he's been connected with celebrities in the past and has won three Super Bowls.



I don't get why anyone would build around A-Rod or Jeter. A 33/34 year old SS/3B should not be the cornerstone of a franchise no matter how good they are. I would build around David Wright, Jose Reyes, Hanley Ramirez, Felix Hernandez, Tim Lincecum, Prince Fielder, Geovany Soto, and Russell Martin before those two.


I would take a younger A-Rod/Jeter and build my team around, but for the players today, the one's you mentioned I would take in a heartbeat.


As for Zito, he's overpaid; not overrated. I have yet to hear anyone say he's a good pitcher.

I still think he'd have done better if he had stayed in Oakland. His ERA went up after he left. He only had one bad season there and won 23 games in 2002. I think his final years in Oakland weren't bad, they just didn't score enough runs while he was pitching.

[Kingfish]

Angels sweep the Phillies, based largely on the strength of their starting pitching. Just another Halo victory!

[Nightmare]

Dodgers > Angels

[Kingfish]

Their records seem to strongly indicate the opposite.

[Nightmare]

Their records seem to strongly indicate the opposite.

Records dont mean everything! :cmad:

[Kingfish]

When it comes time to see who makes the postseason, I think you'll see that records do in fact mean everything.

[Nightmare]

:( I was just messin. Hows torri hunter doing?

[Kingfish]

.273 with 9 homers and 37 rbis. Not exactly a middle of the order masher but solid. Certainly better than a certain other high-priced So-Cal centerfielder.

(I am of course also "messin")

[Nightmare]

Oh man. Yeah, what a bust. A lot of our high priced signings have been huge busts. And its frustrating. But thats life.

[Kingfish]

The Dodgers haven't exactly been smart in their recent free-agent pursuits. Everyone except them knew Andruw would flop. Everyone knew Schmidt was hurt. Pierre's been good this year, but come on. He's Juan Pierre.

They have some of the best young talent around, they just don't seem to think too much on their free agents.

[Dodger]

The Dodgers haven't exactly been smart in their recent free-agent pursuits. Everyone except them knew Andruw would flop. Everyone knew Schmidt was hurt. Pierre's been good this year, but come on. He's Juan Pierre.

They have some of the best young talent around, they just don't seem to think too much on their free agents.

*sigh* Coming out of denial and into the real world is a harsh reality.

Ned Colletti...I had such high hopes. But let see : Schmidt, Pierre, Nomar, Jones, Sweeney, Loaiza.

Pierre is doing alright, but like you said it's Juan Pierre. $70 million of FA signings are on the DL. Sweeny is hitting about .001. Then there are the quotes of comparing the Dodgers to the Giants.

I wish Logan White would take over. His record proves that he has an eye for talent. (Kemp, Loney, Martin, Bills, Kershaw, Dewiit, LaRoche, Broxton) all ALL of them were drafted by white. And our starting now and doing OK. But like I always say, the potential is there for the young kids.

[bored]

KC's craziest game in years. I remember getting frustrated and turning it off after the 2nd inning, then checking on it later, and seeing how close it had gotten.

[Nightmare]

Ah yes, today in the LA times. Ned said he would let Kim ng and/or Logan White talk to seattle about there vacant GM job. He's trying to eliminate the competition. I hate this guy.

[Spidey-Bat]

Phillies discovered the law of averages this week.

[Showtime]

http://assets.espn.go.com/media/apphoto/0f59c94b-44ac-43df-a576-d6a8bf1f7d31.jpg

Tampa Bay Rays wore the St. Pete Pelican's uniforms for the June 21st game vs the Astros.

http://assets.espn.go.com/media/apphoto/55de0ab7-e329-41bd-af0e-da4460ddf71e.jpg

I didn't think you needed to see the Astro's uniforms, but I thought this photo was post worthy. :csad:

[Spidey-Bat]

What the **** are/were the St. Pete Pelicans?

[Eddie Brock]

Phillies discovered the law of averages this week.
I heard someone on the radio who made an excellent point.

He said that this is actually great for the Phillies, in the long run. It's the middle of the season, they're facing the best teams in the league, and they realize that - while they've come far - they're still not there yet. They've seen the MLB yardstick, and they have time to measure up if they have what it takes.

7 strikeouts by Myers the other day, but they still lost. I'm glad to see a better performance by Brett, though.

[Spidey-Bat]

That's sugar coating **** if you ask me. I've never heard anyone say it's a good thing to lose to good teams to measure yourself against them.

[Eddie Brock]

That's sugar coating **** if you ask me. I've never heard anyone say it's a good thing to lose to good teams to measure yourself against them.
Of course it's sugarcoating. This is Philadelphia. How do you think we manage to swallow the perennial lump in our throats at the end of every year?

That said, it's better to lose now than in September.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Jeter is overrated. All he does really is hit for a high average. He's only hit 20+ HR 3 times in his career, he's only had a 400+ OBP 3 times, he's only stolen 30+ bases 3 times in his career and his SB totals have fluctuated a lot. I'm not one to consider RBI's a great statistic but he's only had 100+ once. He's overrated because of his post-season numbers. His defense has been average or below his entire career. It's grossly overrated because of his "flip" and "dive" plays. Also his spin-and-throw move is more for show. The reason you don't see guys like Reyes, Rollins, or Tulowitzki do it is because they have the speed to get to the ball, plant themselves, and throw it.

An interesting fact with Jeter: His career BABip is .359. Which means in his entire career, he has been incredibly lucky with balls he hits in play.

He's still a HoF and one of the best SS in this generation (he's 2nd to A-Rod in career, 2nd to Nomar in peak). If he didn't play in NY, especially for the Yankees, he'd be underrated. I heard fans calling into radio talk shows yesterday and most of them said players were just jealous of Jeter which I find to be a stupid rationale.

People hate A-Rod. Wright is overrated, but his best years are ahead of him. Youkilis I would argue is underrated by most people.

Accurate.

Agreed!:up:

[Nightmare]

What song does the cubs fans sing after winning a home game?

[Caped Crusader]

Good win for my yanks today

[MoPlaYa]

Dang...I was hoping the Cards would sweep Boston

[Dark Donnie]

Phillies discovered the law of averages this week.

They'll bounce back for sure, Utley is just in a horrible slump, there 3,4,5 for that matter.

That's sugar coating **** if you ask me. I've never heard anyone say it's a good thing to lose to good teams to measure yourself against them.

It's' good in the sense that it brings them back to reality. Are they a real good team yes, but it shows they have weakness. Now they'll go out and make a move at the deadline for sure. If they don't they'll still get the East, but advancing in the playoffs might be tough.

[Eddie Brock]

They'll bounce back for sure, Utley is just in a horrible slump, there 3,4,5 for that matter.



It's' good in the sense that it brings them back to reality. Are they a real good team yes, but it shows they have weakness. Now they'll go out and make a move at the deadline for sure. If they don't they'll still get the East, but advancing in the playoffs might be tough.
Luckily, Utley and Howard's slumps rarely coincide. Otherwise, we'd have a much more serious problem.

[Dark Donnie]

Im not particularly worried about Chase at all, he'll be back in no time. Howard is a strikeout machine however. I know he puts up monster power numbers, but at some point he needs to fix this. 200 K's is nothing to just blow off.

[Spidey-Bat]

What song does the cubs fans sing after winning a home game?

"Go Cubs, Go"

They'll bounce back for sure, Utley is just in a horrible slump, there 3,4,5 for that matter.
I hope they don't :oldrazz:


It's' good in the sense that it brings them back to reality. Are they a real good team yes, but it shows they have weakness. Now they'll go out and make a move at the deadline for sure. If they don't they'll still get the East, but advancing in the playoffs might be tough.
They should learn from every loss, regardless of who they lose to.

They're not a lock for the division. I think the Braves are done. The Marlins have hung in for awhile, maybe they keep overachieving for the year. Mets are in the process of a comeback and they'll definitely make a move at the deadline for an OF bat.

[Spidey-Bat]

EDIT: Double Post

[Dark Donnie]

Great avvy :up:

Mets are on a roll of late, any word on who they might target? Phils are said to be looking at Fuentes but I doubt anything comes of that, we should be in the market a starter.

[Eddie Brock]

Im not particularly worried about Chase at all, he'll be back in no time. Howard is a strikeout machine however. I know he puts up monster power numbers, but at some point he needs to fix this. 200 K's is nothing to just blow off.
Power hitters tend to have large strikeout numbers. It's an occupational hazard.

[Spidey-Bat]

Great avvy :up:

Mets are on a roll of late, any word on who they might target? Phils are said to be looking at Fuentes but I doubt anything comes of that, we should be in the market a starter.

Thanks, Carlin was my favorite comedian ever. Still can't believe he's gone :(

The names I hear are Xavier Nady, Jason Bay, and Adam Dunn. Marcus Thames could be possible since there was some speculation before the season with him. Raul Ibanez could be a possibility but he's a lefty (Mets have a lot) and is a horrible defensive OF.

[NewYorkSpider]

Mets were in talks with Fuentes as well.

Couple of topics to discuss today.

1. Babe Ruth's granddaughter wants the No. 3 retired across baseball. Should it?

2. Is Curt Schilling a HoF?

[amazingfantasy15]

Woohoo! Cubs swept the Sox! Nice way to rebound after the Tampa trip. Hopefully they can keep this home winning streak going against Baltimore. Finally able to gain another game on St. Louis too.

[BlackLantern]

Mets were in talks with Fuentes as well.

Couple of topics to discuss today.

1. Babe Ruth's granddaughter wants the No. 3 retired across baseball. Should it?

2. Is Curt Schilling a HoF?

1. No...it shouldn't....

2. Maybe, but not first time up

[Spidey-Bat]

Mets were in talks with Fuentes as well.

Couple of topics to discuss today.

1. Babe Ruth's granddaughter wants the No. 3 retired across baseball. Should it?

2. Is Curt Schilling a HoF?

1. Hell no

2. Borderline. I think he gets elected in the last 3 or 4 years he's eligible.

[NewYorkSpider]

I don't think the number should be retired either. If it is then it will be a contstant trend with people wanting thier number retired. I'm not a huge fan of doing this and I hope they don't.

I hate Curt Schilling with a passion, but I think he's a HoF. Great postseason numbers and was on 3 World Series winning teams. Would've been 4 if it wasn't for Joe Carter. He has over 3,000 strikeouts. It will be close.

[Spidey-Bat]

What a ****ty night. Not only did Santana take the wind out of the game by giving up a grand slam to Felix Hernandez (all unearned runs thanks to a Wright error), but Felix left before he could qualify for the win (he's on my fantasy team) b/c of a sprained ankle.

[Showtime]

Beckett is pitching lights out right now. 2-0, top half of the 8th.

Youks got hit in the face with a ball playing first doing warm ups.

[NewYorkSpider]

It's been a crazy night. An AL pitcher hits a GS off of one of the best pitchers in baseball and Youkillis leaves the game after being hit by a bounced ball in the eye during routine warmups in the middle of the inning.

[NewYorkSpider]

Beckett is pitching lights out right now. 2-0, top half of the 8th.

Youks got hit in the face with a ball playing first doing warm ups.

You forgot to mention that the D-Backs were winning. :oldrazz: Beckett is pitching a great game right now. Youks took a pretty big shot. Had a big old black eye.

Glad to hear Schilling had successful surgery. They said he could be throwing off the mound in January.

[Spidey-Bat]

It's been a crazy night. An AL pitcher hits a GS off of one of the best pitchers in baseball and Youkillis leaves the game after being hit by a bounced ball in the eye during routine warmups in the middle of the inning.

First time an AL pitcher has hit a GS in 37 years.

Another guy on my fantasy team with an injury :o

[Showtime]

It's been a crazy night. An AL pitcher hits a GS off of one of the best pitchers in baseball and Youkillis leaves the game after being hit by a bounced ball in the eye during routine warmups in the middle of the inning.

You forgot to mention that the D-Backs were winning. :oldrazz: Beckett is pitching a great game right now. Youks took a pretty big shot. Had a big old black eye.

Glad to hear Schilling had successful surgery. They said he could be throwing off the mound in January.

It has been crazy.

You know what is funny, I turned the game back on an inning or so ago, I thought the Red Sox were actually winning 2-0.

[NewYorkSpider]

First time an AL pitcher has hit a GS in 37 years.

Another guy on my fantasy team with an injury :o

I couldn't believe he hit that HR.

I have 4 people on the DL in the league you're doing. Willingham comes off tomorrow and Kuroda Saturday. Wang and Martinez will be out untill August/September.

[NewYorkSpider]

It has been crazy.

You know what is funny, I turned the game back on an inning or so ago, I thought the Red Sox were actually winning 2-0.

I've done that before. It sucks when you finally realize it. Sox have the bases loaded with J.D Drew up.

[cyborg ninja 14]

I for one am surprised that my D-Backs went into Boston and took the first game against Beckett. It was a nail biter for sure.

[cyborg ninja 14]

What the **** are/were the St. Pete Pelicans?

http://imagecache2.allposters.com/images/pic/FIP/FL-00748-C~Feeding-Pelicans-St-Petersburg-Florida-Posters.jpg:huh:

[Dodger]

This has to do with baseball :

4SqJz0NgnnE

I want to know if anybody else has seen this cause I want to know if it's a commercial for gatorade. It has to be a commercial for something.

[NewYorkSpider]

I think it's a gatorade commercial. Notice the drink when the ballgirl sits back down. Also, the catchers mit changes from his right hand to his left later on in the video.

[Kingfish]

Mets were in talks with Fuentes as well.

Couple of topics to discuss today.

1. Babe Ruth's granddaughter wants the No. 3 retired across baseball. Should it?

2. Is Curt Schilling a HoF?

1. No. Start this up and someday you wind up like that episode of Futurama.

2. Borderline, but I'll say no. His statistics are comparable to Orel Hershiser and worse than Bert Blyleven's. He has the rings going for him, but right now I say no. Certainly not deserving of being a first-rounder at least.

[Showtime]

I've done that before. It sucks when you finally realize it. Sox have the bases loaded with J.D Drew up.

I'm getting old. :csad: Manny got robbed, sweet play at 3rd!

I think Shilling is a HOF, but definately not first ballot.

[Spidey-Bat]

Major WTF with the Mets.

[NewYorkSpider]

1. No. Start this up and someday you wind up like that episode of Futurama.

2. Borderline, but I'll say no. His statistics are comparable to Orel Hershiser and worse than Bert Blyleven's. He has the rings going for him, but right now I say no. Certainly not deserving of being a first-rounder at least.


I don't watch Futurama. Never have.

I should have asked if Schilling was a first ballot HoF. Let's say he comes back and pitches for 2 more seasons, stays healthy and wins at the lowest 10 games in both those seasons. Is he then? The doctors said he could be pitching off the mound in January. And this of course is if he decides to come back. He would have about 236 wins and about 3,316 SO.

[Spidey-Bat]

The joke in Futurama was that every whole number was retired by every team so players had to wear fractions.

[NewYorkSpider]

The joke in Futurama was that every whole number was retired by every team so players had to wear fractions.

HaHa! I watched the first ever episode of Futurama and never watched it again.

Yankees get their asses handed to them by the Pirates.

[bored]

Royals win their 4th straight. May interleague play never end :O

[NewYorkSpider]

KC is playing great ball right now. Only 7.5 GB of the White Sox. Last year at this time they were 16 GB.

[Dark Donnie]

Shawn Chacon Grabs Ed Wade by the Neck and throws him to the ground! (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=ApVVkwRgzdFJMmPrZaLaV3s5nYcB?slug=ap-astros-chaconsuspended&prov=ap&type=lgns)

[bored]

Royals swept the Rockies :woot:. They're out of the cellar!

[Kingfish]

I should have asked if Schilling was a first ballot HoF. Let's say he comes back and pitches for 2 more seasons, stays healthy and wins at the lowest 10 games in both those seasons. Is he then? The doctors said he could be pitching off the mound in January. And this of course is if he decides to come back. He would have about 236 wins and about 3,316 SO.

No way he deserves to be a first-ballot selection. Even with those additional statistics, he would have 50 fewer wins and 400 fewer strikeouts then Blyleven. The only thing he has on Bert is the rings. He may get in if there is enough voter bias, but he is not deserving of getting in on the first go.

[Badger]

Royals swept the Rockies :woot:. They're out of the cellar!

YAY!! :woot:

[Badger]

Royals win their 4th straight. May interleague play never end :O

Yeah, we had first choice to go into the NL over the Brewers and said, "NO Thanks." :csad:

Think of all the pennants we could have had. :o

[terry78]

Shawn Chacon Grabs Ed Wade by the Neck and throws him to the ground! (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=ApVVkwRgzdFJMmPrZaLaV3s5nYcB?slug=ap-astros-chaconsuspended&prov=ap&type=lgns)

Haha, this ***** just lost it. It will never cease to amaze that people earning millions feel the rules just don't apply anymore.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Shawn Chacon Grabs Ed Wade by the Neck and throws him to the ground! (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=ApVVkwRgzdFJMmPrZaLaV3s5nYcB?slug=ap-astros-chaconsuspended&prov=ap&type=lgns)

I was hoping for a video. Oh well.

[Dark Donnie]

I was hoping for a video. Oh well.

sorry to disappoint

[Spidey-Bat]

I'm so tired of interleague :o

[BlackLantern]

well unless Chacon gets picked up this weekend, he'll be out of a job on Monday

[Dark Donnie]

I think Chacon got his outright release. While I don't advocate violence from various reports and interviews Wade had a beat down coming to him for alot of years.


Spidey July 4th series :up:

[terry78]

I think Chacon got his outright release. While I don't advocate violence from various reports and interviews Wade had a beat down coming to him for alot of years.


Spidey July 4th series :up:

True enough, but it would have been less consequential if he had given him a verbal beatdown as opposed to that. As soon as there is physical altercation with a superior, they don't even attempt to hear your side.

[BlackLantern]

I'm sorry....I'm one of those people that believe a measure of a persons' character is the ability to keep their temper under control....according to the GM, he had asked Chacon to speak privately and Chacon repeatedly refused, he then said what he had to say in front of the team and Chacon blew up....so regardless of whether someone "deserves it or not", you are a grown man and a professional athlete...you should know better....

There is no excuse for grown men to be fighting unless they are getting paid for it or it is self-defense

[Spidey-Bat]

Spidey July 4th series :up:
I have the Cardinals to worry about first. I can't believe I'm even saying that.


My opinion on this Chacon thing is both of them are stupid. Ed Wade should be professional. Screaming and cursing at a player is completely unprofessional. As for Chacon, he should not have gotten physical. He also shouldn't have been a whiney ***** about being moved to the pen. He only has himself to blame for that. Want to be in the rotation? Pitch better. Even if he had 9 straight no-decisions, he has an ERA over 5 now.


Anyone notice the Twins have won 9 straight? I think they're gonna end up winning the AL Central. I said they were going to do better than people thought and so far I was right. Just imagine how good they'd be if they hadn't traded Santana or Garza. Though I'm sure Carlos Gomez has saved some games in the OF, but Delmon Young has done squat all season.

[Dark Donnie]

I'm sorry....I'm one of those people that believe a measure of a persons' character is the ability to keep their temper under control....according to the GM, he had asked Chacon to speak privately and Chacon repeatedly refused, he then said what he had to say in front of the team and Chacon blew up....so regardless of whether someone "deserves it or not", you are a grown man and a professional athlete...you should know better....

There is no excuse for grown men to be fighting unless they are getting paid for it or it is self-defense

Wade still cursed at him. Wade went off on a tirade before way before Chacon went after him.

[BlackLantern]

Wade still cursed at him. Wade went off on a tirade before way before Chacon went after him.

Didn't Wade ask him to speak privately prior to the incident, and Chacon refused to do so....so he told him he would address him in front of the team and he did.....

Athletes do get yelled at....it does happen....Chacon was still in the wrong for assaulting him

[Dark Donnie]

Didn't Wade ask him to speak privately prior to the incident, and Chacon refused to do so....so he told him he would address him in front of the team and he did.....

Athletes do get yelled at....it does happen....Chacon was still in the wrong for assaulting him

Again, I never said Chacon wasn't in the wrong. My point was that Ed wade was in the wrong as well....

[BlackLantern]

Wade still cursed at him. Wade went off on a tirade before way before Chacon went after him.

Didn't Wade ask him to speak privately prior to the incident, and Chacon refused to do so....so he told him he would address him in front of the team and he did.....

Athletes do get yelled at....it does happen....Chacon was still in the wrong for assaulting him

[amazingfantasy15]

Anyone notice the Twins have won 9 straight? I think they're gonna end up winning the AL Central. I said they were going to do better than people thought and so far I was right. Just imagine how good they'd be if they hadn't traded Santana or Garza. Though I'm sure Carlos Gomez has saved some games in the OF, but Delmon Young has done squat all season.

Oh, how sweet I hope it will be this weekend as the Cubs fans sing "Go, Cubs, Go" at the Cell and the Sox drop into second place in their division. Talk about a double whamy! I'd love to see that Ozzie temper tantrum.

[Spidey-Bat]

15-6 Mets

Mercy!

[Go Web Go!]

I'm so tired of interleague :o

What? Why?

I, for one, can't get enough of the epic Twins/Diamondbacks rivalry..

[Dark Donnie]

15-6 Mets

Mercy!

Who knew Delgado still played:oldrazz:

[Spidey-Bat]

I love interleague :)

[Spidey-Bat]

Pedro is done

[omid17]

I'm sorry....I'm one of those people that believe a measure of a persons' character is the ability to keep their temper under control....according to the GM, he had asked Chacon to speak privately and Chacon repeatedly refused, he then said what he had to say in front of the team and Chacon blew up....so regardless of whether someone "deserves it or not", you are a grown man and a professional athlete...you should know better....

There is no excuse for grown men to be fighting unless they are getting paid for it or it is self-defenseagreed

[Spidey-Bat]

Twins win 10th straight.

Mets score 0 runs in the night game.

Brett Myers lasts 2 innings and gave up 5 runs. I wonder if he's injured.

[Dark Donnie]

Twins win 10th straight.

Mets score 0 runs in the night game.

Brett Myers lasts 2 innings and gave up 5 runs. I wonder if he's injured.

Myers has been atrosious, the way he talks is he wants to close again, but that obviously won't happen with this club this year. Gillick has already mentioned moving him.

[bored]

KC won its sixth straight! Now if only the other AL Central teams would start losing...

[Nightmare]

Dodgers 6 Angels 0

[Kingfish]

Bah. Since when did Chan Ho remember how to pitch?

Justin Speier really sucking this season...

[Dodger]

If the D-Backs lose tomorrow then every team in the NL West will be under .500. Also if they lose and the Dodgers win then we will be only 1.5 back. But still 4 games under .500.


NL West is soooo sorry.

[NewYorkSpider]

Anyone notice the Twins have won 9 straight? I think they're gonna end up winning the AL Central. I said they were going to do better than people thought and so far I was right. Just imagine how good they'd be if they hadn't traded Santana or Garza. Though I'm sure Carlos Gomez has saved some games in the OF, but Delmon Young has done squat all season.

I still think the Tigers will slip in and win the division. The Twins are playing great ball right now. Plus, the Royals are only 7.5 GB. The whole AL Central is a toss up at this point.

15-6 Mets

Mercy!

The only good thing to come out of that game for me was Carlos Delgado. Picked him up on my fantasy team. I love the NL East race. All 4 teams are within 3 games of each other.

[Simon Phoenix]

I'm goin to Rays vs. BoSox on monday...hope its a good game...it'd be great if the Rays win since they're only .5 games from being on top of the AL East again

[Spidey-Bat]

I still think the Tigers will slip in and win the division. The Twins are playing great ball right now. Plus, the Royals are only 7.5 GB. The whole AL Central is a toss up at this point.
The White Sox, Tigers, and Twins are the only real threat IMO.


The only good thing to come out of that game for me was Carlos Delgado. Picked him up on my fantasy team. I love the NL East race. All 4 teams are within 3 games of each other.
The Braves aren't a real threat. Lot of their key players are out with injuries. They have no bullpen either.

[NewYorkSpider]

The White Sox, Tigers, and Twins are the only real threat IMO.

I thought the Indians would be doing a lot better than they are. I even picked them to win the World Series. Royals would have a good ballclub if they had some better pitching. I think the offense is capable of scoring runs, even though they haven't shown it.

The Braves aren't a real threat. Lot of their key players are out with injuries. They have no bullpen either.

I don't think they're a threat either. I just can't see them making the playoffs. I think the Marlins are going to stay pretty close to the divison and may contend for the Wild Card.

[Spidey-Bat]

Went to the Yankee/Met game, left at the rain delay. That was the worst umpired game I ever saw. Santana was squeezed beyond belief in the top of the 4th (ball 3 to Jeter was a strike. At least 2 of the pitches to Abreu were strikes). Pettite's pickoff was a balk (he started his delivery looking to home and spun around). Santana's pickoff was only called a balk because Santana barked (and rightfully so) at the HP umpire after the 4th. That ump (will look up his name later) should be fined and suspended. He could have stayed at HP and just turned away, instead he goes at Santana.

That said, the Mets did not make their own breaks. They need to stop swinging at the first pitch with guys on. In 110 years, no one has ever gotten out by taking the first pitch. Reyes needs to play more alert and develop better baseball instincts.

[NewYorkSpider]

I watched most of the game on FOX. There were a lot of bull**** calls that went in favor of the Yankees. When Santana walked Abreu in the 4th, Manuel came out along with the HP umpire. The announcers said that he was arguing balls and strikes. I don't blame him. Tim McCarver was surprised he wasn't ejected. The ball 4 to Abreu looked like a strike on the inside corner. Abreu hesitated going to first and had to check if it was ball 4.

[Spidey-Bat]

The pitch that Jeter did his trademark ass-bend was a strike. At least 2 of the pitches Abreu took were strikes. The one he walked on was close. I saw these pitches on the Mets Post-game.

[Kingfish]

It would be just like the Angels to throw a no-hitter and lose.

[NewYorkSpider]

It's funny when you see they have a no-hitter going and they're losing by one run.

[Kingfish]

Odd, I don't find it funny in the least.:whatever:

[NewYorkSpider]

That's because you're an Angels fan.

[Kingfish]

Yeah, but when it happens to other teams, I find it more sad then funny. When it happens to my own team, I feel like I want to puke.

[NewYorkSpider]

I feel bad for Weaver who had to be taken out for a pinch-hitter.

[Kingfish]

Congratulations Dodger fans. The Angels no-hit you and you still win. Hold your heads high. I know I am.:csad:

[Kingfish]

I feel bad for Weaver who had to be taken out for a pinch-hitter.

Hard to feel sorry for him when it was his error that led to the run.

[NewYorkSpider]

Hard to feel sorry for him when it was his error that led to the run.

That's still a tough play for pitcher to run off the mound toward first and try to make the play. Plus, Matt Kemp was the batter who is pretty quick. I'd put more blame on the catcher for not making a good enough throw to second when Kemp was stealing. That allowed Kemp to go to third and score on DeWitt's sac fly.

[Spidey-Bat]

It would be just like the Angels to throw a no-hitter and lose.

At least your team threw one :o

[Kingfish]

At least your team threw one :o

Don't even get that. It's not recognized as an "official" no-hitter because they only threw 8 innings.

I just really didn't want that to be the first Angel's no-hitter that I actually got to watch.:csad:

[MoPlaYa]

Go Cards!!!