Official 2009 MLB Thread

[danielisthor]

DH makes it the inferior league.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Calm down everyone, daniel is playing a cruel joke on us with this.

[BlackLantern]

the DH is useless....a pitcher is part of the team, the whole team bats....end of discussion

[cyborg ninja 14]

the DH is useless....a pitcher is part of the team, the whole team bats....end of discussion

That doesn't make the AL inferior, just gives them one more competent bat in the lineup. As opposed to a pitcher who for the most part is dead weight unless they can bunt if the situation calls for it.

[cyborg ninja 14]

http://graphics.boston.com/bonzai-fba/Globe_Photo/2007/07/11/1184153245_8236.jpg

WTF:huh:

[Spidey-Bat]

Where have I seen that before?

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/2306/scrubs.png

[cyborg ninja 14]

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/53/135063093_9ae08f15e8.jpg

Hahaha, I love the implication that Bonds was once an impoverished African as a rookie or whatever.

[cyborg ninja 14]

That looks familiar

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/2306/scrubs.png

I love how Papi is all "yep, they real man. Enjoy."

[Spidey-Bat]

I love how Papi is all "yep, they real man. Enjoy."

Unlike Madonna's *rimshot*

[cyborg ninja 14]

http://rant.sportslizard.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/05/92-b-m-ramirez-rc.JPG
http://videodetective.com/photos/163/006885_54.jpg
whaaaaat:wow:

[Spidey-Bat]

Someone apparently loves Google Image Search.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Unlike Madonna's *rimshot*

A-Rod needs love, from everyone. You don't see him doing this with Jeter though. "Suddenly (he) aint yo ho, no mo:csad:"

[cyborg ninja 14]

Someone apparently loves Google Image Search.

Funny thing is, all these pics (minus the Jamie Foxx) came from an "Alex Rodriguez rookie" search. Weird huh?

[BlackLantern]

That doesn't make the AL inferior, just gives them one more competent bat in the lineup. As opposed to a pitcher who for the most part is dead weight unless they can bunt if the situation calls for it.

that's where strategy comes in....you know that #9 spot is coming up and you have to decide what to do.....having the DH is doing half the job for you....

[cyborg ninja 14]

that's where strategy comes in....you know that #9 spot is coming up and you have to decide what to do.....having the DH is doing half the job for you....

That still has nothing to do with the NL being the superior league though.

[Spidey-Bat]

That still has nothing to do with the NL being the superior league though.

It's the superior league because it requires a manager to think. Just look at Torre. Only made the playoffs with an NL team twice (1982 and 2008). He goes to the Yankees where all he has to do is have someone wake him up for a pitching change and he wins 4 WS.

[Dr. Evil]

Since I expect the Rangers to blow chunks again in 2009, I won't be posting very much in this thread.

[BlackLantern]

It's the superior league because it requires a manager to think. Just look at Torre. Only made the playoffs with an NL team twice (1982 and 2008). He goes to the Yankees where all he has to do is have someone wake him up for a pitching change and he wins 4 WS.

He wasn't waking up, he was just leaning over to fart....

[Dr. Evil]

The World Baseball Classic...........what a crap fest.

[Kingfish]

This tired old argument again? Oh, the NL is superior...strategy, and bunting, and blah de freakin' blah. Does this same old crap really need to be trotted out everytime some butthurt fan of an NL team feels the need to be snooty about something?

It's the superior league because it requires a manager to think. Just look at Torre. Only made the playoffs with an NL team twice (1982 and 2008). He goes to the Yankees where all he has to do is have someone wake him up for a pitching change and he wins 4 WS.

That could of course have something to do with how horrendously crappy the Mets of the late 70s were.

Look, I've heard all the crap spewed by both sides in this entire argument ever since I became a baseball fan, and I really couldn't care less anymore. They're both just leagues, everyone is going to love whichever one their team is in, and the AL is clearly more talented from top to bottom at this point in time.

As a final note, Mike Scioscia is the best manager in baseball, regardless of league.

[Captain Planet!]

I hate watching pitchers bat. It's painful.

And the AL has the best division in baseball, DH or not. Bunting or not. Thinking or not.

The O's beat the DR today. Bwahaha. A team filled with steroidal MLers beaten by half of the O's.

[Darren Daring]

DH makes it the inferior league.

the AL also has, like, a couple hundred better players.

[Spidey-Bat]

As a final note, Mike Scioscia is the best manager in baseball, regardless of league.

Yet he can't his team past the ALDS.

[sinewave]

DH makes it the inferior league.

no, actually it makes it the tougher league. there are better hitters so the pitchers have to be better. look how much better the AL has fared in inter-league play since it's inception. plus, they've won much more all-start games and world series over the last 20 years than the NL.

[Spidey-Bat]

no, actually it makes it the tougher league. there are better hitters so the pitchers have to be better.

They have to be better but that doesn't mean they are.

the AL also has, like, a couple hundred better players.

And they're all on about...5 teams.

[KALEL114]

Just heard on the radio that A-Rod is having Hip Surgery. Out 10 weeks. If this old news, disregard.

[KALEL114]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3954457

[sinewave]

They have to be better but that doesn't mean they are.



And they're all on about...5 teams.

well, if the trend continues this season, ask i expect it will, i don't see how anyone can claim that the AL isn't the better league.

[sinewave]

Just heard on the radio that A-Rod is having Hip Surgery. Out 10 weeks. If this old news, disregard.

damn, that was sudden. it's not like the yanks can't compete without him in the lineup, but they won't be as devastating offensively without him.

[Spidey-Bat]

well, if the trend continues this season, ask i expect it will, i don't see how anyone can claim that the AL isn't the better league.

Because it requires strategy, hence it is more challenging to win because you must constantly be thinking and planning ahead.

The quality of talent is cyclical. The NL has a LOT more young, upcoming talent than the AL does. Look at how the NL dominated the ASG in the 70's and 80's. As for WS, it's been pretty even over the last decade. The NL just hasn't had a dynasty since the Reds which was over 30 years ago.

[sinewave]

Because it requires strategy, hence it is more challenging to win because you must constantly be thinking and planning ahead.

if the strategizing is so much better then why does the AL have the better record in inter-league play?

The quality of talent is cyclical. The NL has a LOT more young, upcoming talent than the AL does. Look at how the NL dominated the ASG in the 70's and 80's. As for WS, it's been pretty even over the last decade. The NL just hasn't had a dynasty since the Reds which was over 30 years ago.

whether it's cyclical or not, there's no denying that the current state of affairs dictates that the AL is the stronger league right now and has been for at least the last 20 years. i see no reason to believe that the dominance is going to shift to the NL anytime soon, and no, the WS record hasn't been "pretty even" over the last decade. since 1998, the AL has won 7 WS and the the NL only 4. that's almost twice as many championships for the AL than the NL over the last decade.

[Spidey-Bat]

if the strategizing is so much better then why does the AL have the better record in inter-league play?
Because they have the extra hitter.

whether it's cyclical or not, there's no denying that the current state of affairs dictates that the AL is the stronger league right now
If by "AL" you mean the Yankees, Red Sox, and about 3 other teams then you're correct.

i see no reason to believe that the dominance is going to shift to the NL anytime soon
Like no one saw it shifting to the AL years ago. It just happens.

and no, the WS record hasn't been "pretty even" over the last decade. since 1998, the AL has won 7 WS and the the NL only 4. that's almost twice as many championships for the AL than the NL over the last decade.
I was referring to this decade, the 2000's. It's 5 to 4. Pretty even. Especially when you look at the past few years.

Let's not forget, the AL has only dominated in the WS historically thanks to one team. It's been anything but a collective effort.

[Spidey-Bat]

A-Rod is having hip surgery. Out until May.

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090305&content_id=3921752&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

[Christopher Nolan]

well, thats ****, but better having a injury in the beginning of theseason, than in the end...

[sinewave]

Because they have the extra hitter.


If by "AL" you mean the Yankees, Red Sox, and about 3 other teams then you're correct.


Like no one saw it shifting to the AL years ago. It just happens.


I was referring to this decade, the 2000's. It's 5 to 4. Pretty even. Especially when you look at the past few years.

Let's not forget, the AL has only dominated in the WS historically thanks to one team. It's been anything but a collective effort.

i think you're confusing the quality of game management with the quality of talent and pure wins. sure, this might be the year that the NL suddenly shifts to the dominant league, but i don't see it happening. there's too much of a disparity in talent between the two leagues. sorry, but you're not convincing anyone here that the NL is the better league, because it's blatantly obvious that they aren't. you can be wrong once in a while, you know? it's a crazy notion, but it's true.

[Double Down]

Manny is having his press conference now. He's pretty funny.
"First, I want to thank the McCourt family for doing this good investment."

[Spidey-Bat]

sure, this might be the year that the NL suddenly shifts to the dominant league, but i don't see it happening.
I didn't know you being able to see it or not was a requirement of it being true.

there's too much of a disparity in talent between the two leagues.
The talent disparity isn't that much of a difference. If you want, look at the ASG last year. Yeah, the AL won (barely). The NL put up a very good game. They didn't have all of their best players such as Lincecum (selected but sick) and Santana (snubbed). The only talent disparity is in the AL where the Yankees and Red Sox have most of the top talent and the rest is spread amongst everyone else.

[BlackLantern]

Id sooner take a bad NL team (Padres, Cincinnati) than a bad AL team (KC, Texas)

[sinewave]

I didn't know you being able to see it or not was a requirement of it being true.

ok, then show me your proof that the shift is going to happen this year or even within the next 5 years.

The talent disparity isn't that much of a difference. If you want, look at the ASG last year. Yeah, the AL won (barely). The NL put up a very good game. They didn't have all of their best players such as Lincecum (selected but sick) and Santana (snubbed). The only talent disparity is in the AL where the Yankees and Red Sox have most of the top talent and the rest is spread amongst everyone else.

the talent disparity is big enough to give the al a huge edge in interleague play since it's inception. i don't know how you can say that's not a good indicator of league dominance.

smarter men than you realize that the AL is the stronger league, but if you want to dispute that, go ahead. it doesn't make you right, though.

Id sooner take a bad NL team (Padres, Cincinnati) than a bad AL team (KC, Texas)

texas and kc would beat the majority of the teams in the nl. the only nl team with a record above .500 in interleague play last year was cincinnati with a 9-6 record. every other team in the nl got their clocks cleaned last year. kc managed a 13-5 record, for crying out loud! i know, it's a small sample size, but if you look back over the history of interleague play, it's actually trending towards the al more and more in recent years.

[Kingfish]

Seriously. There is no point to this. Notice how the supporters of the NL are fans of NL teams and vice-versa? Everybody will just take whichever side their team is on and make all kinds of ridiculous claims about "strategy" and other nonsensical idiocy to back up their own team.

Yet he can't his team past the ALDS.

Several samplings of 3-4 games out of 1300 is hardly a fair representation.

Look at Bobby Cox.

A-Rod is having hip surgery. Out until May.

Hey, actual news! We should talk about this!

[sinewave]

Seriously. There is no point to this. Notice how the supporters of the NL are fans of NL teams and vice-versa? Everybody will just take whichever side their team is on and make all kinds of ridiculous claims about "strategy" and other nonsensical idiocy to back up their own team.

exactly. except i have, you know, evidence to back my point up. :cwink:

[Kingfish]

NL fans never have anything to base their claims on except the nonexistent jabber about being more strategical. Something which is of course impossible to prove and is merely a convenient way to scream "LOOK AT ME! I'M A FAN OF A TEAM IN A SMARTER LEAGUE! THAT MEANS I'M SMARTER! HAH!"

See, I'm an Angels fan, and I support the AL. Whole debate is beyond pointless.

[sinewave]

NL fans never have anything to base their claims on except the nonexistent jabber about being more strategical. Something which is of course impossible to prove and is merely a convenient way to scream "LOOK AT ME! I'M A FAN OF A TEAM IN A SMARTER LEAGUE! THAT MEANS I'M SMARTER! HAH!"

See, I'm an Angels fan, and I support the AL. Whole debate is beyond pointless.

yeah, or if you do give them statistical proof of something, they'll just say, "well, you haven't seen them play every day and i have and they're better than you or the stats show." :whatever:

[Spidey-Bat]

A-Rod is going to have the cyst on his hip drained rather than removed surgically.

http://yankees.lhblogs.com/2009/03/05/no-surgery-for-a-rod/

[Darthphere]

NL fans never have anything to base their claims on except the nonexistent jabber about being more strategical. Something which is of course impossible to prove and is merely a convenient way to scream "LOOK AT ME! I'M A FAN OF A TEAM IN A SMARTER LEAGUE! THAT MEANS I'M SMARTER! HAH!"

See, I'm an Angels fan, and I support the AL. Whole debate is beyond pointless.

Well our pitchers hit so there.:huh::huh::huh:

[Kingfish]

The discussion might include discussion of free agent Pedro Martinez as an option at closer. La Russa suggested in November that the club should expand its consideration to include veteran starting pitchers. Martinez has a recent history of shoulder problems but said Tuesday he would be open to the possibility of closing. "I would prefer to try it first and see how my body responds because I haven't done it in a long time," said Martinez, who might be used in a relief role during the World Baseball Classic. "It's something you really have to endure and really try first before you know if your body can do it."

Pedro as a closer? Hmmmmm

[sinewave]

I can't prove that it will. But going by history, there will very likely be a shift to the NL just as there was a shift to the AL in the 90's. Just because it cannot be proven does not mean it will never happen.

:huh: i never said it wouldn't happen eventually, but at this point in time, the al is the dominant league.


Because they don't play the same teams every year and play equal number of games in each others' stadiums.

again :huh: they play an equal amount of games in each ballpark. i haven't looked at the specific breakdown in series and games, but it would have to even out in terms of sub .500 teams playing over .500 teams, wouldn't it? if they were equal, or close to it as you seem to think they are, then it wouldn't matter who played who, because there would be less of a disparity in wins and losses between the leagues than we've seen and that's not the case.

I don't dispute that the AL has more elite teams but as a whole it's not as much stronger than the NL as you're making it out to be. Take about half the players on the Red Sox and Yankees and put them on other AL teams. That's essentially how it is in the NL. There's not one team that's loaded.

i'd say they just have more talent in the al. i'm not looking at specific teams like the yankees or red sox. all i'm saying is that if you put the royals in the nl central they're improve their records tremendously over what it would be in the al central. judging by their interleague play record over the last few years, i'd be right. the royals' wort record in interleague play between 2005 and 2008 was 9-9. the year before that it was 6-12, but they've trended upwards since then with 10-8, 10-8, and 13-5 for the seasons 2006-2008. since they're considered one of, if not the weakest team in the AL, would it even matter who their nl opponents were during those series?

How about instead of just spitting ouy records you include the teams they played. Good for them they were 13-5. But there's a difference between playing the Mets, Phillies, and Cubs and the Pirates, Nationals, and Giants.

again, why does it matter who they played? they're the friggin' royals. if your theory was true that there's not much difference between the leagues, it shouldn't matter if they play the pirates or the mets. if they're beating them, they're better.

[sinewave]

Pedro as a closer? Hmmmmm

that might not be a bad option for him. low innings would help keep him fresh and healthy and he's still good at getting hitters out.

[danielisthor]

The AL has a complete advantage when playing at home during games. A NL team has to use a backup/utility player as their DH. They have to use a guy who's lucky to get 10 ab a week. A few are situational type hitters ie: comes in to face a lefty or righty.

Who are DH's. Players who are so bad at fielding that they can't even be put at 1st on a regular basis. It seems a fair number of them were also roid boys. Why, because if you can't at least hit, then you have no job.

[ih8nyy]

Manny is having his press conference now. He's pretty funny.
"First, I want to thank the McCourt family for doing this good investment."

Manny's an idiot.

[sinewave]

The AL has a complete advantage when playing at home during games. A NL team has to use a backup/utility player as their DH. They have to use a guy who's lucky to get 10 ab a week. A few are situational type hitters ie: comes in to face a lefty or righty.

Who are DH's. Players who are so bad at fielding that they can't even be put at 1st on a regular basis. It seems a fair number of them were also roid boys. Why, because if you can't at least hit, then you have no job.

ok, but interleague matchups play an even amount in each ballpark. wouldn't the disparity in won-loss records between the leagues even out more because the al teams still have to play in nl parks without their dh's?

[BlackLantern]

anyone catch any of the China/Japan game today?

[danielisthor]

ok, but interleague matchups play an even amount in each ballpark. wouldn't the disparity in won-loss records between the leagues even out more because the al teams still have to play in nl parks without their dh's?

You would think so, but no. The DH is still going to get an ab when a pitcher is pulled during his at bat or in a major at bat instance. He's still a far better hitter than anybody the NL Manager puts up there in the same circumstance. The AL Manager still gets to leave the pitcher in the 9 hole. More often than not, NL Managers need to make switches with the batting order.


I may not be explaining this as well as I want to. I have a pounding headache that 3 Advils have yet to fix.

[sinewave]

You would think so, but no. The DH is still going to get an ab when a pitcher is pulled during his at bat or in a major at bat instance. He's still a far better hitter than anybody the NL Manager puts up there in the same circumstance. The AL Manager still gets to leave the pitcher in the 9 hole. More often than not, NL Managers need to make switches with the batting order.


I may not be explaining this as well as I want to. I have a pounding headache that 3 Advils have yet to fix.

no, i get what you're saying, but i'm not sure that one or two at bats here and there for a league average or better hitter per game would be enough to skew the standings that much. what about the supposed advantage that the nl has over the al in terms of strategizing and double-switches? also, those nl teams would have better pitching, due to the fact that they would have one less hitter to carry on their roster, wouldn't they? that should be a factor in their favor, i would think.

[Captain Planet!]

anyone catch any of the China/Japan game today?
Yu Darvish is a pimp.


Too bad the O's will never sign him. We'd have one heck of a rotation in 3 or 4 years.

[Spidey-Bat]

A-Rod has a torn labrum in his hip. Surgery would mean he'd be out for 4 months. Sucks to be him.

also, those nl teams would have better pitching, due to the fact that they would have one less hitter to carry on their roster, wouldn't they? that should be a factor in their favor, i would think.

Really?

no, actually it makes it the tougher league. there are better hitters so the pitchers have to be better.

NL teams usually carry 12 pitchers. I don't think most AL teams carrys more. In fact, it's more important to have the extra bench player in the NL for pinch hitting, extra innings, or injuries.

I'm just informing you. I don't want to argue anymore. I don't care about 15 of the 16 NL teams.

[sinewave]

A-Rod has a torn labrum in his hip. Surgery would mean he'd be out for 4 months. Sucks to be him.



Really?



NL teams usually carry 12 pitchers. I don't think most AL teams carrys more. In fact, it's more important to have the extra bench player in the NL for pinch hitting, extra innings, or injuries.

I'm just informing you. I don't want to argue anymore. I don't care about 15 of the 16 NL teams.

...

[Spidey-Bat]

No spamming, please.

[sinewave]

No spamming, please.

...

[Nightmare]

Which is the 1 NL team you care about?

[Captain Planet!]

This AL vs. NL thing is stupid. My team is in the AL. I root for the AL in the ASG. I prefer watching AL games rather than NL games, Just because I'm used to the AL. That's how it is for pretty much all fans.

[BlackLantern]

Has anyone seen the new D's( it gets censored) Sporting Goods commercials with Jimmy Rollins standing in front of a pitching machine?? they're quite funny

[Captain Planet!]

Has anyone seen the new D's( it gets censored) Sporting Goods commercials with Jimmy Rollins standing in front of a pitching machine?? they're quite funny
Is he doing it Happy Gilmore style?

[cyborg ninja 14]

No spamming, please.
Cute, it think it's a mod awww:yay:

Has anyone seen the new D's( it gets censored) Sporting Goods commercials with Jimmy Rollins standing in front of a pitching machine?? they're quite funny

His off season training revealed.

[BlackLantern]

Is he doing it Happy Gilmore style?

Pretty much, he gets this crazy look on his face while he's talking to two guys shopping....

[Captain Planet!]

Pretty much, he gets this crazy look on his face while he's talking to two guys shopping....
Heh.

Looks like Matt Wieters went 2-3 today with an RBI double. Brian Matusz pitched 3 scoreless innings. He only gave up 1 hit, To a batter he threw 3 curveballs (his best pitch) to, So the skipper told him to stop using his curveball.

He still blew away everyone. Pretty impressive for a kid with no Minor League experience outside of the AFL.

[Spidey-Bat]

Pedro is apparently hitting 91mph. I wouldn't mind the Mets re-signing him if he'd take less than $2M. He's better than Freddy Garcia (who can barely hit 86) and I have more confidence in him than Livan Hernandez.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Pedro is apparently hitting 91mph. I wouldn't mind the Mets re-signing him if he'd take less than $2M. He's better than Freddy Garcia (who can barely hit 86) and I have more confidence in him than Livan Hernandez.

Who isn't better than Livan right now? No one? good.

[Captain Planet!]

So... Looks like it's that time again. What time? Why, Premature Prediction Time, Of course!

Lets start it up.

Division Winners:

AL East: The Red Sox

AL Central: The Twins

AL West: The Angels

AL Wild Card: The Rays


NL East: The Mets

NL Central: The Cubs

NL West: The Dodgers

NL Wild Card: The Phillies


Other Predictions:

The Baltimore Orioles will win 73-76 games. I'm banking on 74.

Nick Markakis will make his first All-Star game, But he won't even be in the top 10 voted OFers.

Matt Wieters will struggle a little bit for around 2 weeks, And then hit his stride. He will never look back.

The Yankees will still be 3rd place, Just behind the Rays.

Mark Teixeira will miss part of the last month due to a minor injury (Possibly finger).

The Angels will see a significant decrease in wins.

Grady Sizemore will improve his AVG.


AL MVP: A close call between Grady Sizemore, Kevin Youkilis, Josh Hamilton, And Miguel Cabrera. Youkilis will be the victor because, Well, he plays for the Red Sox.

NL MVP: Albert Pujols. Hanley Ramirez and David Wright won't be slouches either.

AL Cy Young: Roy Halladay. I do not think Cliff lee will repeat his 2008, And I think C.C. Sabathia will be blown out by the middle of August.

NL Cy Young: Johan Santana


AL Rookie Of The Year: Matt Wieters

NL Rookie Of The Year: Colby Rasmus


Nick Markakis will finally get a Gold Glove. Matt Wieters will even beat out Joe Mauer for the AL Silver Slugger for Catchers.

[The Incredible Hulk]

AL
East = Rays
Central = Indians
West = Angels
Wild Card = Yankees

NL
East = Phillies
Central = Cubs
West = Dodgers
Wild Card = D'Backs

ALCS: Angels v. Rays
NLCS: Phillies v. Cubs

WS: Cubs v. Rays

Champ: Cubs (hell it's been 101 years)

[Spidey-Bat]

You think the D'backs are going to win more games than the Mets?

[Kingfish]

AL West: Angels
AL Central: Indians
AL East: Rays
Wild Card: Red Sox

NL West: Dodgers
NL Central: Cubs
NL East: Phillies
Wild Card: Mets

Rays over Indians
Angels over Red Sox (bout frickin' time)

Cubs over Phillies
Mets over Dodgers

Rays over Angels (sadly)
Cubs over Mets

Rays over Cubs

AL MVP: Grady Sizemore
NL MVP: David Wright

AL CY: John Lackey
NL CY: Tim Lincecum

AL ROY: David Price
NL ROY: Cameron Maybin

Random Predictions:

Despite the preseason hype, the Yankees will fall apart and struggle to finish in third. Wear/tear and the return to the tougher league will bring a heavy toll on Sabathia. Burnett will be average at best. A-Rod will have the most embarrassing and ineffective season of his career, even when healthy. But, despite my own personal wishes, Teixeira will have a monster season.

The A's will compete with the Angels for the West right until September. The Angels will still win, but it won't be the cakewalk it was last season.

Matt Wieters will be a major bust and be sent back down quickly (just seeing if you're still reading CP).

The Mets will be winning the division come September, only to choke badly once again. This time they'll still manage to take the Wild Card though.

Now, of course, none of this will probably happen. Gotta love prediction time.:whatever:

[Spidey-Bat]

Ivan Rodriguez is pathetic:
http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/articles/2009/03/05/rodriguezs_3_hits_help_puerto_rico_beat_boston_123 6288012/?rss_id=Boston.com+--+Red+Sox+news

When the tournament is over, the only player with at least 13 Gold Gloves and a .300 career batting average or higher could be with a major league team. He's hoping it could be the New York Mets.

"I think that's a great fit," Rodriguez said. "Having me there (with) a young pitching staff ... could be good for the team. Hopefully, the Mets can do whatever they need to do to have a spot for me."

I'm sure the pitching staff would appreciate you calling fastballs all the time to give the illusion that you can still throw out runners.

[Kingfish]

He'll never get this perfect job that he thinks is still out there for him. Some team will take him as a backup but that's pretty much it for Pudge.

[Captain Planet!]

I don't see how The Indians could win the Central, Though I'd like to see it.


Matt Wieters will be a major bust and be sent back down quickly (just seeing if you're still reading CP).

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww256/whitlocklove/Disgust.gif

[BlackLantern]

the season hasn't even started yet.....I save my predictions until after the All Star Break

[Captain Planet!]

the season hasn't even started yet.....I save my predictions until after the All Star Break
Pffft.


Sissy.

[cyborg ninja 14]

You think the D'backs are going to win more games than the Mets?
Yes:yay:

A
AL CY: John Lackey

No:yay:

[Kingfish]

He's perfectly capable and in a contract year.




...aw who am I kidding, it's my one completely biased pick. Sue me.

[Captain Planet!]

It's gonna be Halladay.

[LuiECuomo]

champ: Cubs (hell it's been 101 years)

lol.

[Christopher Nolan]

yankees will get the title...

[Spidey-Bat]

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AuC_wYYslOaa2DC8kGyfYncRvLYF?slug=ap-yankees-a-rodship&prov=ap&type=lgns

A-Rod will attempt to play with the torn labrum without rehabbing. He's just prolonging the inevitable.

[sinewave]

Predictions

AL East - Yankees
AL Central - Indians
AL West - A's
Wild Card - Red Sox

NL East - Mets
NL Central - Cubs
NL West - Dodgers
Wildcard - Phillies

ALDS - Yanks over A's
ALDS - Sox over Indians
ALCS - Sox over Yanks

NLDS - Mets over Dodders
NLDS - Cubs over Phillies
NLCS - Cubs over Mets

WS - Sox over Cubs

AL MVP - Sizemore
AL Cy Young - Halladay
AL ROY - Weiters
AL MOY - Wedge

NL MVP - Wright
NL Cy Young - Santana
NL ROY - Rasmus
NL MOY - Piniella

[sinewave]

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AuC_wYYslOaa2DC8kGyfYncRvLYF?slug=ap-yankees-a-rodship&prov=ap&type=lgns

A-Rod will attempt to play with the torn labrum without rehabbing. He's just prolonging the inevitable.

I hope this saps his power and he's out for the season around June with a poor showing like .260/7/35/40 or something like that. They don't really have anyone useful to replace him with. I smell a trade coming.

[The Incredible Hulk]

You think the D'backs are going to win more games than the Mets?

Yes. They're another young and up coming team that will only get better. Not to mention they've got one of the best 1-2 punches in the league with Webb and Haren. I think the Mets will actually win less game this year then last year.

[Spidey-Bat]

Yes. They're another young and up coming team that will only get better. Not to mention they've got one of the best 1-2 punches in the league with Webb and Haren. I think the Mets will actually win less game this year then last year.

They may have a good 1 and 2 (even though Webb is a bit overrated) but the rest of their rotation is unimpressive. They lost Randy Johnson as well as one of their best relievers from last year. Garland's K/9 fell below 4.5 which is the average a pitcher must attain in order to not rely on his defense too much. They're also replacing Orlando Hudson with Felipe Lopez who spent the majority of last year in his manager's doghouse.

I just don't see how you can think an 82 win team, which didn't improve significantly (if at all), will out perform an 89 win team, which greatly improved it's main weakness.

[Darthphere]

You don't see it because well, you're a Mets fan.

[sinewave]

You don't see it because well, you're a Mets fan.

:hehe:

[Spidey-Bat]

You don't see it because well, you're a Mets fan.

It has nothing to do with who the team is. It's about facts.

[The Incredible Hulk]

I just don't see how you can think an 82 win team, which didn't improve significantly (if at all), will out perform an 89 win team, which greatly improved it's main weakness.

What your missing is that young teams improve from year to year from within, not just by player acquisitions. Thinking you only get better with free agency is that NY big market mentality.

If you look at the D-Backs, guys like Upton, Young, Jackson, Reynolds, Scherzer, Snyder, etc are only going to get better the older they get. Sure they still have some holes at the back end of their rotation and Qualls doesnt impress me as a closer (although I think Pena has that job by June) but that core of that team is very young and very talented. They were miles ahead of that division last year before their inexperiience caught up to them and they fell on their faces. With another year under their belt, I think they can maintain a level of success over the course of the season.

[BlackLantern]

as a Mets fan I take it month to month....and both of the Mets best players came through the farm system....

[Spidey-Bat]

What your missing is that young teams improve from year to year from within, not just by player acquisitions. Thinking you only get better with free agency is that NY big market mentality.

If you look at the D-Backs, guys like Upton, Young, Jackson, Reynolds, Scherzer, Snyder, etc are only going to get better the older they get. Sure they still have some holes at the back end of their rotation and Qualls doesnt impress me as a closer (although I think Pena has that job by June) but that core of that team is very young and very talented. They were miles ahead of that division last year before their inexperiience caught up to them and they fell on their faces. With another year under their belt, I think they can maintain a level of success over the course of the season.

There's no guarantee that simply because a player is young he is guaranteed to get better. Look at Robinson Cano. After 2006, everyone is calling him the next Rod Carew. What has happened since? He's regressed.

Snyder is already 28. He's not going to become a great hitting catcher. Jackson is 27, he'll probably get better but he's not becoming a 30+ HR hitter any time soon. Justin Upton is still a VERY raw talent and won't be close be close to his potential for at least another couple years. The only players I think that are primed for a big improvement are Drew (he had a good 2nd half) and Young (he still needs to improve his OBP a lot). Mark Reynolds will always be a swing for the fences player. Scherzer is very talented but, like Upton, very raw.

I'll post more later.

[Christopher Nolan]

what teams in the mlb you guys support???

[danielisthor]

Marlins - yes I use to be that one fan in the stands. But now I live in Dodgertown. So I only get to see my team 6x a year in person or on tv. :(

[Darthphere]

It has nothing to do with who the team is. It's about facts.

Yeah and the fact is, you're a Mets fan which immediately makes you believe there is no way in hell the D-Backs can win more games than your team.

Marlins - yes I use to be that one fan in the stands. But now I live in Dodgertown. So I only get to see my team 6x a year in person or on tv. :(


I have season tickets to the Marlins, wear my Marlins gear all the time and show up for Spring Training. Me and the other 3 fans miss you.:csad:

[Showtime]

Is Spidey&Batsy...Spidey-Bat's Bizzaro?

[The Incredible Hulk]

There's no guarantee that simply because a player is young he is guaranteed to get better. Look at Robinson Cano. After 2006, everyone is calling him the next Rod Carew. What has happened since? He's regressed.

Snyder is already 28. He's not going to become a great hitting catcher. Jackson is 27, he'll probably get better but he's not becoming a 30+ HR hitter any time soon. Justin Upton is still a VERY raw talent and won't be close be close to his potential for at least another couple years. The only players I think that are primed for a big improvement are Drew (he had a good 2nd half) and Young (he still needs to improve his OBP a lot). Mark Reynolds will always be a swing for the fences player. Scherzer is very talented but, like Upton, very raw.

I'll post more later.

Dont get me wrong, I didnt say it was a guarantee that players get better. However I think given the system and coaching that's in place in Arizona and the talent levels of some on the roster that they will improve.

Cano is sort of an odd example in that he was basically unheralded, came out of nowhere and had a great season and a half, and then faded back into obscurity. The Yankees arent exactly known as an organization that develops a lot of talent either and havent been since the days Jeter and Soriano were coming up through their system. The D'Backs on the other hand have one of the best farm systems in MLB according to Sports Weekly and MiLB.com. Pretty much that entire roster of position players is home grown. Hell, they also traded away Carlos Quentin before last season. Wouldnt they like to have that move back?

Snyder was a gaffe on my part, I meant Drew put typed Snyder for some unknown reason.

[Christopher Nolan]

Is Spidey&Batsy...Spidey-Bat's Bizzaro?

IoI....confused???

[Spidey-Bat]

Yeah and the fact is, you're a Mets fan which immediately makes you believe there is no way in hell the D-Backs can win more games than your team.

I didn't say there's no way in hell the D'backs will win the WC over the Mets. I'm just saying it's not very likely considering the Mets were the better team last year and much greater improvements than the D'backs did in the offseason.

But of course you just see me, a Met fan, saying they're better than another team and automatically cry "homer."

Dont get me wrong, I didnt say it was a guarantee that players get better. However I think given the system and coaching that's in place in Arizona and the talent levels of some on the roster that they will improve.

Cano is sort of an odd example in that he was basically unheralded, came out of nowhere and had a great season and a half, and then faded back into obscurity. The Yankees arent exactly known as an organization that develops a lot of talent either and havent been since the days Jeter and Soriano were coming up through their system. The D'Backs on the other hand have one of the best farm systems in MLB according to Sports Weekly and MiLB.com. Pretty much that entire roster of position players is home grown.

Snyder was a gaffe on my part, I meant Drew put typed Snyder for some unknown reason.

The D'backs farm has become dry since their trade for Haren. Most of their talent is in the lower levels.

Hell, they also traded away Carlos Quentin before last season. Wouldnt they like to have that move back?
The player they received for him was later included in the Dan Haren trade.

Yeah and the fact is, you're a Mets fan which immediately makes you believe there is no way in hell the D-Backs can win more games than your team.

I didn't say there's no way in hell the D'backs will win the WC over the Mets. I'm just saying it's not very likely considering the Mets were the better team last year and much greater improvements than the D'backs did in the offseason.

But of course you just see me, a Met fan, saying the Mets are better than another team and automatically cry "homer."

Is Spidey&Batsy...Spidey-Bat's Bizzaro?

Perhaps. Though I would change my account name but I don't know what I'd change it to, I don't know if mods still allow it, and I don't feel like messing with everyone.

[cyborg ninja 14]

He's perfectly capable and in a contract year.




...aw who am I kidding, it's my one completely biased pick. Sue me.

It's all good, Webb for NL cy:cwink:

[sinewave]

I have season tickets to the Marlins, wear my Marlins gear all the time and show up for Spring Training. Me and the other 3 fans miss you.:csad:

how much do marlins season tickets go for, if you don't mind me asking?

[BlackLantern]

how much do marlins season tickets go for, if you don't mind me asking?

$5 and a bag of Jolly Ranchers?

[sinewave]

$5 and a bag of Jolly Ranchers?

i had a feeling that was coming. :yay:

[BlackLantern]

I like the World Baseball Classic...but the Pitch Count Rule and Mercy Rule are both ********

[Dr. Evil]

I like the World Baseball Classic...but the Pitch Count Rule and Mercy Rule are both ********

The Mercy rule is only in effect when South Africa, The Netherlands, Italy, China, Chinese Tapei and Australia are playing. It's a mute point when the Latin American Nations, The United States, Korea and Japan are playing each other.

Also, why in the hell is South Africa in this thing anyways? Same for Italy? I understand why the Dutch are in this thing (many of the Netherlands players are from Curacao and Aruba).

[Darthphere]

how much do marlins season tickets go for, if you don't mind me asking?

Depends, I have a 41 pick a game plan, and that was about $500 for infield box seats.

[Captain Planet!]

O's won again today.

Watch out Sox, Yanks, And Rays.

[Alex The Great]

Wait a Minute.........



























































































The Royals are .500?!!!!!! :happydance:


:csad:

[sinewave]

Depends, I have a 41 pick a game plan, and that was about $500 for infield box seats.

that's pretty good. i don't even want to know what the red sox are charging these days.

[sinewave]

O's won again today.

Watch out Sox, Yanks, And Rays.

Are you talking about 5 years in the future?

[Captain Planet!]

Are you talking about 5 years in the future?
They could be menace as soon as 2-4 years in the future.

[BlackLantern]

The Mercy rule is only in effect when South Africa, The Netherlands, Italy, China, Chinese Tapei and Australia are playing. It's a mute point when the Latin American Nations, The United States, Korea and Japan are playing each other.

Also, why in the hell is South Africa in this thing anyways? Same for Italy? I understand why the Dutch are in this thing (many of the Netherlands players are from Curacao and Aruba).

Team USAs first game is against Canada this weekend

[Captain Planet!]

I want to see more of Yu Darvish.

[BlackLantern]

I want to see more of Yu Darvish.

Hell...so do I...he bought it, Far East style

[Captain Planet!]

I think Darvish is coming to the US sooner than he says. I don't think anyone can expect him to tell his country that he's going to bolt as soon as he can.

The only question is, Who will be the highest bidder?


.... Well, I guess that isn't really a question.

[Dr. Evil]

Team USAs first game is against Canada this weekend

The Mercy Rule will be in effect in this game.

[sinewave]

The Mercy Rule will be in effect in this game.

at least canada has a few good hitters like russell martin, jason bay, justin morneau and joey votto. they should at least score some runs. pitching? not so much.

[NewYorkSpider]

I think Darvish is coming to the US sooner than he says. I don't think anyone can expect him to tell his country that he's going to bolt as soon as he can.

The only question is, Who will be the highest bidder?


.... Well, I guess that isn't really a question.

If he does come to the US, I honestly don't see him in a Yankee or Red Sox uniform.

[sinewave]

If he does come to the US, I honestly don't see him in a Yankee or Red Sox uniform.

The Sox and Mariners have the best relationship with the Asian market, particularly Japan. I could see him ending up with either team, and obviously the Yanks, Mets and Dodgers would factor into the discussion.

[Spidey-Bat]

He'll break down 2 years after he comes to the US. I think the Yankees will sign him since they missed out on Dice-K.

[Dr. Evil]

at least canada has a few good hitters like russell martin, jason bay, justin morneau and joey votto. they should at least score some runs. pitching? not so much.

I don't know anything about Votto, but that's a pretty good lineup.

[sinewave]

I don't know anything about Votto, but that's a pretty good lineup.

votto was a highly-touted rookie last year for the reds who hit .297/24/84/69 in 151 games. he'll make his share of all-star teams before he's through.

[BlackLantern]

Netherlands upsets DR in first round game

[cyborg ninja 14]

I caught the end of the U.S./Canada game. Good job almost blowing it Putz, you will do well in the Mets bullpen:up:

[Dr. Evil]

Netherlands upsets DR in first round game

They did that without Andruw Jones and Jair Jurrjens?

:wow:

[Kingfish]

Not that I put much stock in Spring stats, but the Angels are kicking ass right now at 8-1. Smacked Haren around today, and Brandon Wood is absolutely killing the ball. Would love to see him finally put it all together.

[Showtime]

Maybe if they can figure out the wild card round you might have something.

:dry:

I kid I kid.

[Spidey-Bat]

I hope the DR loses and gets eliminated. The fewer meaningless games Jose Reyes plays, the better.

I recall hearing the Mets have 16 players in the WBC, the most of any team.

[Kingfish]

Maybe if they can figure out the wild card round you might have something.

:dry:

I kid I kid.

You know, a bunch of people said things to that effect about the Red Sox for eighty something years. Then they have five good seasons and think they're the class of baseball. Odd.

[Christopher Nolan]

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/08/sports/baseball/08arod.html?_r=1

Apparently, the debate is over this procedure in which they do a quick repair job that temporarily relieves the situation, but a more extensive operation will be necessary down the road.

[Kingfish]

He should just get the damn operation done already. He might miss four months but at least he'd get back in time to choke in the playoffs.

[Showtime]

You know, a bunch of people said things to that effect about the Red Sox for eighty something years. Then they have five good seasons and think they're the class of baseball. Odd.

One of the strongest teams of the decade, if you want to talk about the past, what have the Angels ever done up until this decade? :huh:

[Spidey-Bat]

In 1995, they choked even worse than the Mets.

[Captain Planet!]

The Eyetalians made me laugh. They had NO pitchers. At least Mike Costanzo looked pretty impressive (He's a 3B for our AAA team), and he also resembles Wolverine.

Melvin Mora looked great, Except for that play at third that he missed. Maybe he can have a good year and then retire on a semi-high note.

I like how Cesar Izturis looked.

[Kingfish]

One of the strongest teams of the decade, if you want to talk about the past, what have the Angels ever done up until this decade? :huh:

Not a damn thing. But I'm not the one who keeps mouthing off about how another team will never succeed based on a recent sampling size of about 10 games.

All in spite of the fact that the only thing the Red Sox did for eighty years was have the most infamous defensive gaffe in the history of the game.

[cyborg ninja 14]

He should just get the damn operation done already. He might miss four months but at least he'd get back in time to choke in the playoffs.

http://msp73.photobucket.com/albums/i201/aykis16/playoffs.jpg

[Immortalfire]

I caught the end of the U.S./Canada game. Good job almost blowing it Putz, you will do well in the Mets bullpen:up:

I still can't get over his name :lmao:

[Spidey-Bat]

I still can't get over his name :lmao:

Do you giggle when you meet someone named Weiner? :whatever:

[Immortalfire]

Depends on how it's pronounced. Wine-er. Ween-er.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Weiter. tee hee

[Excel]

J.D. Drew and Ryan Braun are my picks for M.V.P.'s for the AL and NL.

[Spidey-Bat]

J.D. Drew and Ryan Braun are my picks for M.V.P.'s for the AL and NL.

:lmao:

Ryan Braun? Not Manny?

[Alex The Great]

Excel's logic is of a higger standard than us simpletons.

[Kingfish]

J.D. Drew and Ryan Braun are my picks for M.V.P.'s for the AL and NL.

Wow....

[NewYorkSpider]

Red Sox are winning 162 games this season [/Excel]

[Darthphere]

Red Sox win the Super Bowl in 4.

[cyborg ninja 14]

:lmao:

Ryan Braun? Not Manny?

Eric Byrnes for NL MVP:up:

[Showtime]

Not a damn thing. But I'm not the one who keeps mouthing off about how another team will never succeed based on a recent sampling size of about 10 games.

Where did I keep mouthing off about the Angels in regards to "Spring Training". I'm referring to how they can't beat the Red Sox in the playoffs. You know, where it counts. :yay:

All in spite of the fact that the only thing the Red Sox did for eighty years was have the most infamous defensive gaffe in the history of the game.

I guess it would have been better if they blew it in the 86 American League Championship instead of the World Series. :csad:

[Dr. Evil]

I guess I am not a diehard baseball fan because I have never heard of most of these Team USA baseball players. The only pitchers on Team USA I have heard of are: Brian Fuentes, LaTroy Hawkins, Ted Lilly, Roy Oswalt, JJ Putz, Jake Peavy and Scot Shields. The only position player I have never heard of until the World Baseball Classic is Chris Ianetta.

[cyborg ninja 14]

I guess I am not a diehard baseball fan because I have never heard of most of these Team USA baseball players. The only pitchers on Team USA I have heard of are: Brian Fuentes, LaTroy Hawkins, Ted Lilly, Roy Oswalt, JJ Putz, Jake Peavy and Scot Shields. The only position player I have never heard of until the World Baseball Classic is Chris Ianetta.

Heath Bell
Matt Lindstrom
Jon Grabow
Jack Hanrahan
Jonathan Broxton
Brad Ziegler

So not hardcore:cmad:

[danielisthor]

We still need players for the 2nd SHH Baseball League. The draft is next Sunday.

ID #131125
Password = baseball

[Spidey-Bat]

You should create a thread for it.

[Excel]

If J.D. stays healthy, I see him hitting 300 with 30 homers and around 100-115 rbis with solid defense. I dont see any real frontrunner now with Arod out. I see Jack Daniels Drew having a monsterous year...May, July, and September will be his months.

:lmao:

Ryan Braun? Not Manny?

Manny will have an enormous season and I want him to win...but I see Braun going bonkers this season.

Excel's logic is of a higger standard than us simpletons.

Hey, who else had the Miami Dolphins going to the playoffs back in the preseason? :o

Wow....

Well see what happens.

Red Sox are winning 162 games this season [/Excel]

Nah. I see somethign like 97/98-64/65, though is Becket Dice K and Lester all pitch to expectations thyll combine for almost 60 wins alone.

[Spidey-Bat]

If J.D. stays healthy, I see him hitting 300 with 30 homers and around 100-115 rbis with solid defense.

You do know he's only had one MVP caliber season which was 5 years ago.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Nah. I see somethign like 97/98-64/65, though is Becket Dice K and Lester all pitch to expectations thyll combine for almost 60 wins alone.

I'm sorry, what? All three of these pitchers will then win 20 games then to fulfill this prediction.

[Kingfish]

Where did I keep mouthing off about the Angels in regards to "Spring Training". I'm referring to how they can't beat the Red Sox in the playoffs. You know, where it counts. :yay:

It's bound to happen at some point. To say that it's impossible because of the whopping ten games they've matched up in the playoffs is what irritates me.

We'll just see where it falls come playoff time. You're CLEARLY the most intelligent Red Sox fan that posts here, but even the smartest Boston fan is bound to say something that pisses people off.

I'm sorry, what? All three of these pitchers will then win 20 games then to fulfill this prediction.

Don't forget, last year he predicted the Boston starting rotation would win 98 or so by itself. So this is actually pretty conservative for Excel.

[Spidey-Bat]

Don't forget, last year he predicted the Boston starting rotation would win 98 or so by itself. So this is actually pretty conservative for Excel.

http://forums.superherohype.com/showpost.php?p=13112965&postcount=2

Red Sox seem poised to repeat...


avg/hr/rbis

1. Ellsbury: 335 12 70
2. Pedroia: 330 5 50
3. Papi: 325 50 140 (with fixed knee will hit for wole season like he did in sep. this year)
4. Manny: 310 40 125 (contract year; look for big rebound)
5. Lowell (if signed): 320 16 100
6. J.D. Drew: 280 20 80
7. Youk: 300 20 75
8. Tek: 270 20 60
9. Lugo: 250 8 50

Rotation:

wins/losses/era

1. Beckett: 22-6 3.1
2. Dice-k: 20-10 3.3
3. Lester: 15-7 3.4
4. Buchholz:....19-7 3.1
5. Wake: 18-13 4.2

Pap in pen...42 saves in 46 chances

word is they wanna sign Lowell AND arod and dump Lugo; as well as signing JOHAN SANTANA....

If anyone wants to compare:
http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/BOS/2008.shtml

[Kingfish]

I can't decide which is more ridiculous. This year's Drew prediction or last year's Buchholz prediction.

[cyborg ninja 14]

I can't decide which is more ridiculous. This year's Drew prediction or last year's Buchholz prediction.

What was the Buchholz prediction? was he going to win the Cy Young?

[Kingfish]

4. Buchholz:....19-7 3.1

Probably. And to think all that was based on, what, one start? Sure, it was a no-hitter, but one start does not equal ungodly career. Anyone remember Bud Smith after all?

[cyborg ninja 14]

Probably. And to think all that was based on, what, one start? Sure, it was a no-hitter, but one start does not equal ungodly career. Anyone remember Bud Smith after all?

Jose Jimenez
AJ Burnett
Anibal Sanchez
Roy Oswalt plus 6 others
Kevin Millwood, he did have that one good year in Cleveland though.
There was a no-hitter in the '06 WBC
Eric Milton

[Kingfish]

I'm not sure I understand your point. That sure is a list of recent no-hitters. All of whom are more well known than Bud freakin' Smith, who threw a no-hitter his rookie year, got lit up his second year, was traded, and then never heard from again.

I'm just saying that unless Buchholz turns things around real quick, he may wind up as big a footnote as Bud Smith.

[sinewave]

It's bound to happen at some point. To say that it's impossible because of the whopping ten games they've matched up in the playoffs is what irritates me.

We'll just see where it falls come playoff time. You're CLEARLY the most intelligent Red Sox fan that posts here, but even the smartest Boston fan is bound to say something that pisses people off.



Don't forget, last year he predicted the Boston starting rotation would win 98 or so by itself. So this is actually pretty conservative for Excel.

i take exception to that. :cmad:

[Kingfish]

(*awkward)

Oh, right, I forgot about you.

Ummmmm, well...

You're clearly the most intelligent Red Sox fan that has posted on this page.

(*even more awkward based on the post below mine...)

You know what, I'm just gonna drop it now.

[Showtime]

It's bound to happen at some point. To say that it's impossible because of the whopping ten games they've matched up in the playoffs is what irritates me.

Its certainly not impossible. I'm just messing around with you anyway. The Angels have been a really solid team this entire decade. I honestly don't really believe the Red Sox have their number, and I don't think the Angels feel that way either.

We'll just see where it falls come playoff time. You're CLEARLY the most intelligent Red Sox fan that posts here, but even the smartest Boston fan is bound to say something that pisses people off.

I honestly am not 100% sure if the Red Sox will even make the playoffs. A lot of teams have improved, and they seemed to have stayed the course. Thanks for the compliment though.

[Showtime]

I can't decide which is more ridiculous. This year's Drew prediction or last year's Buchholz prediction.

That is a tough one. I would have to go with Drew.

[sinewave]

(*awkward)

Oh, right, I forgot about you.

Ummmmm, well...

You're clearly the most intelligent Red Sox fan that has posted on this page.

(*even more awkward based on the post below mine...)

You know what, I'm just gonna drop it now.

i'm just ****ing with you, man. showtime's a good dude.

[cyborg ninja 14]

I'm not sure I understand your point. That sure is a list of recent no-hitters. All of whom are more well known than Bud freakin' Smith, who threw a no-hitter his rookie year, got lit up his second year, was traded, and then never heard from again.

I'm just saying that unless Buchholz turns things around real quick, he may wind up as big a footnote as Bud Smith.

Anibal Sanchez is legit, his was in '06 and hasn't been anything worthwhile ever since.

[BlackLantern]

Chipper needs to get away from Team USA...if he's injured, Davey Johnson needs to bench him

[Kingfish]

Anibal Sanchez is legit, his was in '06 and hasn't been anything worthwhile ever since.

True, but he has been injured the last couple of years, right? Have to see if and how he can come back. Bud Smith just sucked.

[cyborg ninja 14]

True, but he has been injured the last couple of years, right? Have to see if and how he can come back. Bud Smith just sucked.

Or the Padres were just that bad?:oldrazz:

[Excel]

I confess...my fanboyism does get to me a tad.

[NewYorkSpider]

I don't predict the Yankees to win the World Series because cause I think it's a jinx.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Tom Verducci spelled Jered Weaver's name wrong on page 443 of "The Yankee Years." He puts it as "Jared Weaver" unacceptable:cmad:

[Spidey-Bat]

He is referring to the Angels' pitcher and not his retread brother, yes?

[cyborg ninja 14]

He is referring to the Angels' pitcher and not his retread brother, yes?

Yes, whatever happened to Jeff?

[Spidey-Bat]

Yes, whatever happened to Jeff?

He's flipping burgers now.

He's actually with the Dodgers on a minor league deal.

[cyborg ninja 14]

He's flipping burgers now.

He's actually with the Dodgers on a minor league deal.

Joe Torre wasn't too fond of him the first time around. Weird.

[Captain Planet!]

I read that as "retard brother".

[sinewave]

I honestly am not 100% sure if the Red Sox will even make the playoffs. A lot of teams have improved, and they seemed to have stayed the course. Thanks for the compliment though.

i don't know if "stayed the course" is entirely accurate. they didn't make any blockbuster deals, but then again, they didn't have to. their core is as strong as any other team's and they're already set at every position. what they did do is bring in some cheap players with a lot of upside to augment their championship-caliber team. smoltz still has ace stuff when he's healthy and all signs point to him being healthy enough to contribute by the all-star break. that's like making a big trade at mid-season for another ace-quality pitcher to slot in behind beckett, lester, and dice-k. not bad. penny ads even more depth, though his chances to help the club seem much lower. saito is a lights-out back of the bullpen guy who gives one of the best bullpens in baseball even more weapons. ramon ramirez is another useful arm in that pen. baldelli, depending on how manageable his condition is, can play all three outfield positions and obviously still has some life left in his bat. he'll be an important factor in that outfield with drew's health constantly in question. i don't see another team in the majors with the type of depth, defensive value, offensive weapons, farm system and financial flexibility. i'll be surprised if they don't win 95 games this year and make it back to the playoffs.

[Captain Planet!]

http://mattwietersfacts.blogspot.com/

[Spidey-Bat]

It's really gonna suck if Wieters is a bust.

[Captain Planet!]

Haha, The Dominican Republicans got eliminated by the Ralph Naderlanders.
It's really gonna suck if Wieters is a bust.
That's like saying Bruce Lee wasn't a badass.



Unless he has some sort of injury, I think everything will go as planned. He's hit well at every level of pro baseball, And he looks like a (extremely) legit Major League Catcher behind the plate.

He made two pretty good plays today.

[Kingfish]

You never know until he actually does it.

[Captain Planet!]

You never know until he actually does it.
Yeah well, You never know if Albert Pujols will hit over .300 until he actually does it, But its likely to happen.

I'm trying to lower my expectations on Wieters, Because I don't want another gigantic dissapointment, And I expect him to go through some slumps, But everything I've seen is encouraging.

[Kingfish]

Yeah well, You never know if Albert Pujols will hit over .300 until he actually does it, But its likely to happen.

I'm trying to lower my expectations on Wieters, Because I don't want another gigantic dissapointment, And I expect him to go through some slumps, But everything I've seen is encouraging.

I used to think the same thing about Dallas McPherson. It doesn't always work out.

[NewYorkSpider]

I wish opening day would hurry up and get here. http://forums.superherohype.com/images/icons/icon9.gif March is boring. No baseball or football. The WBC is ok to watch, but it's not the same.

[Spidey-Bat]

Feb and early March are the worst months for sports.

[NewYorkSpider]

February is alright. The NFL offseason discussion heats up with the NFL draft and free agent signing. I usually keep intrest in that. Lately I've just been sick and tired of hearing about it.

[Kingfish]

i don't know if "stayed the course" is entirely accurate. they didn't make any blockbuster deals, but then again, they didn't have to. their core is as strong as any other team's and they're already set at every position. what they did do is bring in some cheap players with a lot of upside to augment their championship-caliber team. smoltz still has ace stuff when he's healthy and all signs point to him being healthy enough to contribute by the all-star break. that's like making a big trade at mid-season for another ace-quality pitcher to slot in behind beckett, lester, and dice-k. not bad. penny ads even more depth, though his chances to help the club seem much lower. saito is a lights-out back of the bullpen guy who gives one of the best bullpens in baseball even more weapons. ramon ramirez is another useful arm in that pen. baldelli, depending on how manageable his condition is, can play all three outfield positions and obviously still has some life left in his bat. he'll be an important factor in that outfield with drew's health constantly in question. i don't see another team in the majors with the type of depth, defensive value, offensive weapons, farm system and financial flexibility. i'll be surprised if they don't win 95 games this year and make it back to the playoffs.

There's no doubt about them being a strong team, but they could have a few problems that can't be glossed over that easily. Anything they get out of Smoltz or Penny is a boost, but they can't really be counted on for anything. The lineup could easily be dragged down if Ortiz doesn't bounce back, since Lowell, Varitek, and Lugo are basically shells at this point. The Boston brass clearly recognized the potential problems, and it just became really convenient to say they didn't need any help once their only target blew them off.

I do predict they'll make the playoffs though. As the wildcard.

[Spidey-Bat]

Saying Lowell is a shell is a bit of an exaggeration, IMO. If he's healthy, he'll hit. Probably not as well as 2007 though.

[Kingfish]

Might be fair to say, though he clearly can't feel very wanted on the team right now. He won't hit what he used to, but he might be acceptable.

[Spidey-Bat]

Why wouldn't feel wanted? Because they went after Teixeira?

[ih8nyy]

Might be fair to say, though he clearly can't feel very wanted on the team right now. He won't hit what he used to, but he might be acceptable.

Why wouldn't feel wanted? Because they went after Teixeira?

Where his feelings hurt? Probably. But the guy is a professional all the way. He won't sulk and he understands that the game is a business. He'll be fine.

[sinewave]

There's no doubt about them being a strong team, but they could have a few problems that can't be glossed over that easily. Anything they get out of Smoltz or Penny is a boost, but they can't really be counted on for anything. The lineup could easily be dragged down if Ortiz doesn't bounce back, since Lowell, Varitek, and Lugo are basically shells at this point. The Boston brass clearly recognized the potential problems, and it just became really convenient to say they didn't need any help once their only target blew them off.

I do predict they'll make the playoffs though. As the wildcard.

yeah, smoltz and penny are gravy, but there's still huge upside with virtually no risk, so it's a big bonus to have them, plus buchholz, masterson, junichi and bowden in the depth chart. lowell seems to be progressing with his recovery from hip surgery, but even if he's not available on opening day, they have good flexibility with youk able to play 1B and 3B, Lowrie able to play SS, 2B and 3B and Wilkerson and Kotsay able to fill in at 1B or the corner OF's if needed. I agree with Spidey-Bat, if Lowell can play he'll hit. Ortiz does worry me a bit, but he's still pretty feared and their lineup is really spread out with good hitter through out, aside from maybe Lugo and Varitek, but I think Lowrie will get the majority of the playing time as SS and he's going to be a very good player for them. I really don't think their pursuit of Teixiera was anything more than an attempt to drive up the price for the Yanks, and it worked. Boston's already got Youk locked up and ready to slide over to 3B once Lowell's contract expires and stud 1B prospect Lars Anderson is ready to take over.

[ih8nyy]

yeah, smoltz and penny are gravy, but there's still huge upside with virtually no risk, so it's a big bonus to have them, plus buchholz, masterson, junichi and bowden in the depth chart. lowell seems to be progressing with his recovery from hip surgery, but even if he's not available on opening day, they have good flexibility with youk able to play 1B and 3B, Lowrie able to play SS, 2B and 3B and Wilkerson and Kotsay able to fill in at 1B or the corner OF's if needed. I agree with Spidey-Bat, if Lowell can play he'll hit. Ortiz does worry me a bit, but he's still pretty feared and their lineup is really spread out with good hitter through out, aside from maybe Lugo and Varitek, but I think Lowrie will get the majority of the playing time as SS and he's going to be a very good player for them. I really don't think their pursuit of Teixiera was anything more than an attempt to drive up the price for the Yanks, and it worked. Boston's already got Youk locked up and ready to slide over to 3B once Lowell's contract expires and stud 1B prospect Lars Anderson is ready to take over.

Don't forget about Daniel Bard. He could see sometime in the Sox Bullpen later in the year. Kid throws gas and will more than likely take over for Paps, when they let him walk due to him wanting too much money in a few years.

Also Jason Bay was an All-Star in the NL without anyone around him. I am interested to see what he can do for a full year with some guys to protect him.

[sinewave]

Don't forget about Daniel Bard. He could see sometime in the Sox Bullpen later in the year. Kid throws gas and will more than likely take over for Paps, when they let him walk due to him wanting too much money in a few years.

Also Jason Bay was an All-Star in the NL without anyone around him. I am interested to see what he can do for a full year with some guys to protect him.

yeah, i thought about bard after i typed that out. apparently he can get it up to 100mph. sounds like more of a back-end of the bullpen type of guy, but definitely a ton of value there.

you're right about bay. he's a great all-around player. i expect him to put up his usual .290/30/100 numbers again this year, maybe more rbi's if he's hitting 5th behind ellsbury, pedrioa, ortiz and youk. he'll have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs.

i know i'm biased, but i seriously can't find a team with a better balance of youth, experience, defense, offense, pitching, depth, flexibility, prospects and money in all of baseball. they're built to win for years to come.

[FaT_tONle]

February is alright. The NFL offseason discussion heats up with the NFL draft and free agent signing. I usually keep intrest in that. Lately I've just been sick and tired of hearing about it.

I don't know why people are wrapped up in the draft this early... unless you are a hockey fan or NBA guy February is garbage... baseball really doesn't pick up until May either when you get those first key rival games. I need to start getting into March Madness even more than I have in the past to get by in the spring... I just can never get that into it because I don't follow the schools in the regular season.

[BlackLantern]

I don't bother with draft stuff.....in other news, the Netherlands beat the DR again....

[The Incredible Hulk]

It's amusing how people keep calling them the Netherlands, but it's not friggen Holland out there. It's the Dutch Antilles i.e. Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, and a few other tiny Caribbean islands which have been putting players in MLB for years (Calvin Maduro, Andruw Jones, Sydney Ponson, Jair Jurrjens, etc.). Granted it's a huge upset, but it's not like a team full of actual Dutchmen beat the DR.

[BlackLantern]

It's amusing how people keep calling them the Netherlands, but it's not friggen Holland out there. It's the Dutch Antilles i.e. Aruba, Curacao, and Bimini, which have been putting players in MLB for years (Andruw Jones, Sydney Ponson, etc.)

I know that....I assumed it was Holland and all associated territories...Aruba, Bimini, so on....I figured most countries had that rule...

[Spidey-Bat]

They are part of the Netherlands though.

And if you want to be picky, there are no real Italians on team Italy and everyone on Puerto Rico should be playing for the US.

[The Incredible Hulk]

They are part of the Netherlands though.

they've been independent nations for decades. They just have a strong Dutch influence and system of governance that gets input from the Dutch, similar to the way Canada is with Great Britain.


And if you want to be picky, there are no real Italians on team Italy and everyone on Puerto Rico should be playing for the US.

Exxactly right. My point was that ESPN was acting like it was a bunch of actual Dutchmen playing in the game.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Exxactly right. My point was that ESPN was acting like it was a bunch of actual Dutchmen playing in the game.

Which would've been awesome:wow:

[sinewave]

Which would've been awesome:wow:

yeah, i picture dudes with wooden clogs and dutchboy haircuts prancing about the diamond.

[Kingfish]

I really don't think their pursuit of Teixiera was anything more than an attempt to drive up the price for the Yanks, and it worked.

No offense intended, but bull****. I'm sure that's why they flew down to Texas to try and close the deal. They were all in on him from day one, while the Yankees were still fawning over Sabathia. They would have much rather had Tex in the lineup, and would've been fine with trading Lowell and Anderson off whenever they felt they needed something.

Like I said, it becomes awfully easy to say "we never needed him" and "we were never serious about him" once the cool kid on the block tells you to go **** yourself.

[sinewave]

No offense intended, but bull****. I'm sure that's why they flew down to Texas to try and close the deal. They were all in on him from day one, while the Yankees were still fawning over Sabathia. They would have much rather had Tex in the lineup, and would've been fine with trading Lowell and Anderson off whenever they felt they needed something.

Like I said, it becomes awfully easy to say "we never needed him" and "we were never serious about him" once the cool kid on the block tells you to go **** yourself.

i think they would have pushed a lot harder if they didn't have anderson waiting in the wings. look how well it worked out for them by not making the deal from santana. trust me, they're know what they're doing.

[Kingfish]

i think they would have pushed a lot harder if they didn't have anderson waiting in the wings. look how well it worked out for them by not making the deal from santana. trust me, they're know what they're doing.

They were pushing as hard as you humanly can with Scott Boras. The Angels had already given up, the Nats and Orioles were never really in it. Boston got cocky and assumed Tex was stuck with them until the Yanks swooped in.

And, um, (completely in retrospect) they could have had Santana for Buchholz, Crisp, and Lowrie. Obviously at that point they couldn't have known what would happen during the season, but if they had the chance to go back, they'd make that deal in a heartbeat.

[sinewave]

They were pushing as hard as you humanly can with Scott Boras. The Angels had already given up, the Nats and Orioles were never really in it. Boston got cocky and assumed Tex was stuck with them until the Yanks swooped in.

And, um, (completely in retrospect) they could have had Santana for Buchholz, Crisp, and Lowrie. Obviously at that point they couldn't have known what would happen during the season, but if they had the chance to go back, they'd make that deal in a heartbeat.


i think minnesota wanted lester more, and the sox made the right move, in my opinion.

either way, i'm not complaining about the lineup their putting out there. let the yankees bog themselves down with expensive, lengthy contracts while the sox have flexibility and a fertile farm system to continually restock their roster with good, cheap players. it's a winning formula.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Did anyone else know that Marco Scutaro is on the Venezuelan team? I thought he was Italian judging by his name alone.

[sinewave]

Did anyone else know that Marco Scutaro is on the Venezuelan team? I thought he was Italian judging by his name alone.

ditto.

[Spidey-Bat]

Did anyone else know that Marco Scutaro is on the Venezuelan team? I thought he was Italian judging by his name alone.

Did you think Piazza was Italian?

[BlackLantern]

Did you think Piazza was Italian?

Isn't he?? I thought at least one of his parents was an immigrant....

[cyborg ninja 14]

Did you think Piazza was Italian?

Was he? That's what I would assume.

[cyborg ninja 14]

Advice Dog settles the ongoing Jeter argument once and for all
http://luapula.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/here.jpg

[Dr. Evil]

:lmao: at South Africa in the tournament. They don't deserve to be in the classic. Whoever decided that South Africa should be in the tournament ought to be fired.

[Dr. Evil]

It's amusing how people keep calling them the Netherlands, but it's not friggen Holland out there. It's the Dutch Antilles i.e. Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, and a few other tiny Caribbean islands which have been putting players in MLB for years (Calvin Maduro, Andruw Jones, Sydney Ponson, Jair Jurrjens, etc.). Granted it's a huge upset, but it's not like a team full of actual Dutchmen beat the DR.

Jones and Jurrjens are not playing this year.

[BlackLantern]

:lmao: at South Africa in the tournament. They don't deserve to be in the classic. Whoever decided that South Africa should be in the tournament ought to be fired.

They're trying....isn't that what this tournament is about....spreading baseball around the world....??

[Dr. Evil]

They're trying....isn't that what this tournament is about....spreading baseball around the world....??

I guess so.

The Netherlands are down to Puerto Rico 3-0 in the bottom of the 6th. Then again, the Netherlands did beat the Dominican Major League All Stars.

[Spidey-Bat]

The DR did not have everyone it could have had.

[Kingfish]

i think minnesota wanted lester more, and the sox made the right move, in my opinion.

They viewed Buchholz as superior to Lester, who had a great year and all, but was a completely average unknown coming into it. They would have taken Lester if they got Ellsbury, but were willing to settle for Crisp if they got Buchholz.

either way, i'm not complaining about the lineup their putting out there. let the yankees bog themselves down with expensive, lengthy contracts while the sox have flexibility and a fertile farm system to continually restock their roster with good, cheap players. it's a winning formula.

All fine and dandy to say now, but it's a safe bet that no Red Sox fan was screaming for them to not sign Teixiera right up until he went to the Yanks.

I'd love to hear Showtimes opinion on this theory of yours.

[Alex The Great]

How come you guys aren't worshipping the 7-4 Royals? Fear Us! :o

[sinewave]

They viewed Buchholz as superior to Lester, who had a great year and all, but was a completely average unknown coming into it. They would have taken Lester if they got Ellsbury, but were willing to settle for Crisp if they got Buchholz.

that's not how i remember it.

All fine and dandy to say now, but it's a safe bet that no Red Sox fan was screaming for them to not sign Teixiera right up until he went to the Yanks.

I'd love to hear Showtimes opinion on this theory of yours.

sure, who wouldn't want a hitter like tex on their roster? i'm just saying i question the red sox's determination to sign him. if they really, really wanted to they could have. they knew they had youkilis, lowell and anderson, so they weren't going to be left out in the cold. their lineup is still deep with out him or manny. i honestly think that the front office was disappointed for not signing tex, but once they saw how much the yankees dished out this season and how much the sox didn't for the amount of talent they received, they were pretty happy when it was all said and done. the red sox are easily the best-run franchise in baseball. i don't doubt for a second that what they're doing (or not doing) is the best thing for the organization.

[Alex The Great]

Exxactly right. My point was that ESPN was acting like it was a bunch of actual Dutchmen playing in the game.

http://www.alanjohns.fsnet.co.uk/goldmember/nigel-powers.jpg

I hate the Dutch! :cmad:

[Kingfish]

that's not how i remember it.

Whatever your revisionist, Red Sox can do no wrong history tells you.:whatever:

sure, who wouldn't want a hitter like tex on their roster? i'm just saying i question the red sox's determination to sign him. if they really, really wanted to they could have.

They tried to the very end to sign Tex. He was their only target and they had the highest bid right until the Yankees jumped in. How does any of that say "they didn't really want to sign him that bad"? You can't bullrush Scott Boras, he'll always look for a higher deal, and they got overconfident in their bid. That's why they lost.

their lineup is still deep with out him or manny. i honestly think that the front office was disappointed for not signing tex, but once they saw how much the yankees dished out this season and how much the sox didn't for the amount of talent they received, they were pretty happy when it was all said and done. the red sox are easily the best-run franchise in baseball. i don't doubt for a second that what they're doing (or not doing) is the best thing for the organization.

The only things they added were 2 pitchers coming off major injuries and an outfielder who was nearly forced into retirement. You can't call it a successful offseason until we see if those players provide anything of worth.

To say the only reason they went after Tex was to drive up the Yankees price is just flat out ridiculous. Is it that hard to say the Red Sox weren't perfect?

[sinewave]

Whatever your revisionist, Red Sox can do no wrong history tells you.:whatever:



They tried to the very end to sign Tex. He was their only target and they had the highest bid right until the Yankees jumped in. How does any of that say "they didn't really want to sign him that bad"? You can't bullrush Scott Boras, he'll always look for a higher deal, and they got overconfident in their bid. That's why they lost.



The only things they added were 2 pitchers coming off major injuries and an outfielder who was nearly forced into retirement. You can't call it a successful offseason until we see if those players provide anything of worth.

To say the only reason they went after Tex was to drive up the Yankees price is just flat out ridiculous. Is it that hard to say the Red Sox weren't perfect?

:huh: are you off your meds, dude?

[Spidey-Bat]

They viewed Buchholz as superior to Lester, who had a great year and all, but was a completely average unknown coming into it. They would have taken Lester if they got Ellsbury, but were willing to settle for Crisp if they got Buchholz.

The deal the Red Sox had offered was Jon Lester, Coco Crisp, Justin Masterson and Jed Lowrie.

[Kingfish]

Of course that was the Red Sox offer. They didn't want to give up either of the higher ceiling players at the time. It was an inane time of the Yankees, Red Sox, and Twins throwing around prospect packages.

:huh: are you off your meds, dude?

No. I am just gonna back off on this for now, though. There really is no point to it.

But, yeah, your ridiculous explanation about the Red Sox and Tex did kinda piss me off there. Sorry if I offended.

[NewYorkSpider]

Does everyone remember that kid that was traded for 10 bats? I didn't know he died.

[fu manchu]

How come you guys aren't worshipping the 7-4 Royals? Fear Us! :o
its spring training alex.:whatever: plus, some of the better teams are missing some of their players due to the wbc.

[sinewave]

Of course that was the Red Sox offer. They didn't want to give up either of the higher ceiling players at the time. It was an inane time of the Yankees, Red Sox, and Twins throwing around prospect packages.



No. I am just gonna back off on this for now, though. There really is no point to it.

But, yeah, your ridiculous explanation about the Red Sox and Tex did kinda piss me off there. Sorry if I offended.

you didn't offend me, i just didn't think it was that big a deal. you make some good points, though.

[The Incredible Hulk]

Jones and Jurrjens are not playing this year.

I didnt say they were. I just brought them up to show that those islands have been producing MLB level talent for a few decades now.

[Dark Donnie]

Manny Ramirez-OF-Dodgers Mar. 12 - 11:48 am et

In an interview for the April issue of Esquire magazine, Jonathan Papelbon said that Manny Ramirez was a "cancer" on the Red Sox.

"It just takes one guy to bring an entire team down, and that's exactly what was happening," Papelbon said. "Once we saw that, we weren't afraid to get rid of him. It's like cancer. That's what he was. Cancer. He had to go." Meanwhile, Ramirez is scheduled to make his spring training debut Thursday after signing a two-year, $45 million deal with the Dodgers last week.
Source: Boston Globe

[Excel]

Pap...dont become the newCurt Schilling

[Spidey-Bat]

More like "Manny, don't become the new leukemia."

[sinewave]

Pap...dont become the newCurt Schilling

papelbon doesn't strike me as being anywhere near as self-righteous or publicity hungry as schilling.

[Kingfish]

Wow, I actually like Papelbon right now. That's never happened before.

[BlackLantern]

Papelbon has no brain to mouth filter

[sinewave]

Papelbon has no brain to mouth filter

exactly. it doesn't mean he's wrong in this instance, though.

[BlackLantern]

Not at all

[ih8nyy]

Does everyone remember that kid that was traded for 10 bats? I didn't know he died.

John Odom. He died of what was termed an "accidental" overdose from Heroin, Methamphetamne, benzylpiperazine and alcohol. No doubt being traded for 10 Maple Bats led to it. Poor guy.

[Spidey-Bat]

More likely it was the other problems in his life such as depression.

[Captain Planet!]

I'm not saying Pappy over there is wrong, But he needs to shut the **** up. I'm tired of him.

[Spidey-Bat]

When else has he talked? Are you referring to the thing at the ASG which the NY media blew out of proportion even by their standards?

[Kingfish]

He may not say a bunch, but his stupid little jigs speak volumes.

[Alex The Great]

its spring training alex.:whatever: plus, some of the better teams are missing some of their players due to the wbc.
As a Royals fan, you take what you can get :csad:

[Captain Planet!]

When else has he talked? Are you referring to the thing at the ASG which the NY media blew out of proportion even by their standards?

He may not say a bunch, but his stupid little jigs speak volumes.
Yeah, Kingfish pretty much hit it.

As a Royals fan, you take what you can get :csad:
Sweet Baby Jesus, WTF is that in your avvy?! :wow:

[Captain Planet!]

Nick Markakis and his Wife had their first child yesterday. We need to sign this kid to a 33 year contract right now. I hear he has a good eye and a very accurate arm.

Taylor Jason Markakis was born at 5 PM yesterday, Taylor is 7 pounds, 1 ounce.

"Taylor".... A meh name. I think it's for his childhood BFF, though. He got hit by a car while riding a bike or something.



FYI, The baby came out of the wife, not Mr. Markickass.

[Spidey-Bat]

He may not say a bunch, but his stupid little jigs speak volumes.

He won the World Series. He can do his jig.

FYI, The baby came out of the wife, not Mr. Markickass.

Don't worry. I'm sure Wieters will let you have his baby.