Reyes, MV3 tame Tigers in game 1

by erik on Oct 22, 2006 2:29 AM EDT in News Comment 122 comments

All Hail, Iron Hat. Way to set the tone. Reyes played the stopper role of 8 straight World Series road games lost, and is the hero of game 1. And in even more irony, the rookie Reyes helped LaRussa win his first World Series game since 10/28/89. But in the first inning, things looked rough for Reyes. I didn't count the number of changeups he threw in the first inning, but it was far too many. The Tiger hitters were sitting on them all the way, and things looked primed for a possible big inning after scoring a run and having runners on 2nd and 3rd. Reyes fortunately got out of the jam on a 'sliner' of the bat of Pudge to Belliard. Looking at that inning, I was afraid it might be a short night for Reyes. His fastball, according to the normally juiced Fox radar guns was topping out at 85 and those changeups weren't hitting the targets. (I think that gun was off, it had the hard-throwing Verlander topping out at 88). Then the Fox cameras panned over to the dugout during the top of the 2nd, and there you saw Dave Duncan, the "pitcher whisperer" as beatwriter Bernie Miklasz calls him, speaking to Reyes about what he needed to different. ie "ditch that changeup boy, or you'll walk home to St. Louis!" The result? Reyes sat down the next 16 Tigers in a row, 19 out of the next 20, almost completely reliant on his fastball. Whatever nervousness he had appeared to be long gone, as Reyes was hitting his spots with near pinpoint command. Through innings 2 through 8, Reyes threw 53 strikes to 14 balls. The Tigers didn't strike any ball with real authority, other then the ball hit to the track by Pudge and Monroe's HR, hitting mostly weak pop-ups, 9 of them caught by infielders. Maybe the lay off was a factor there; the Tiger hitters were not the most patient bunch last night. This was the first time in posteason history that 2 rookies squared off, and Anthony did the Birds on the Bat proud, out-dueling the likely AL ROY Justin Verlander.

Verlander, who's stuff certainly qualifies as "electric", was squarely beaten, mostly by the MV3 looking to redeem themselves for their no-show against Boston. Pujols-Edmonds-Rolen went 6 for 45 in the 04 Series, this game they went 5 for 11 with 2 HR, 4 RBI, 5 runs scored and a walk. Rolen homered to tie the game, and looks to me like he's back. Pujols had his 2 run shot with a base open, in what turned out to be a regrettable decision by Jim Leyland. Pujols was looking fastball outside all the way, after his first at bat where Verlander started him with an outside fastball before striking him out with a curve inside. I don't know if I can fault Leyland for making the decision, Verlander looked so strong against Albert their first go 'round. But Albert is The Machine. I'm gonna sound like a total dork here, but I'm sure many of you that have kids have seen the movie The Incredibles. Albert is like that psycho-learning fighting robot thing; the more you fight it the more he learns your moves and can counter you all the harder. And for at least tonight, Verlander was no Mr. Incredible. But from seeing his stuff, I can't say I'm looking forward his next outing.

1 down, 3 more to go. But the road ain't easy. '68 the Cards won games 1, 3, and 4 and then went on to lose the 5-7 to the Tigers. And this '06 version looked pretty tame after losing game one to the heavily favored Yanks before winning their next 7 to get here. This team still has a lot of fight in it, I'm just glad the Cards could set the tone by punching the big boy square on the jaw. Now it's time to brace ourselves and see how well the Tigers can counter.

A few other li'l bullets:

I was born in Michigan; my first MLB game ever was at ol' Tiger Stadium in '86. Loved it. Still consider myself to be a (very) secondary Tiger fan, this series is a dream come true for me. And I have family pulling for the Tigers, so I mean this only in fun-but was Cats in town? Because every time we got a crowd shot, it was painted faces and kitty ears. I understand some of the kids and ladies doing it, but there was way too many grown men with makeup on out there. We Card fans have weirdness of our own, so much so there's a new hoosier highlighted every week or so. So I guess I can't really talk.
Anyone else see the American Idol commercial that showed a scorecard with the Mets playing the Tigers? Even karaoke contests aren't giving the Cardinals their respect.
Eight of the last nine teams to lose game 1 have gone on to lose the World Series. The exception? The '02 Angels, who were coming off 5 days rest. Hmm.
And the Academy Award for Purposefully Running into the Third Baseman in Order to Get an Obstruction Call goes to...Scott Rolen! Acting!

Cardnilly is right, these Tigers are hard team to dislike. As I stated, this really is a dream series for me, as I didn't just grow up rooting for only for Ozzie, Willie and Jack the Ripper, but also Kirk Gibson, Alan Trammell and Lou Whitaker. I grew up more much more with the Cards then the Tigers, but I've always had a spot in my heart for Detroit and I'd keep my eye on them. While that soft spot may be there, I'm relishing in the chance that somehow these Birds win this whole thing in front of the home crowd. Hat's off to the kid with the flat hat and high socks, and the MV3 for making that a real possibility. Though that should certainly prove difficult.

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Goddamn

by bellyscratcher on Oct 22, 2006 2:32 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Obstruction

At the time I thought no way ScoRo would do that, but after seeing the replay...

I just hope the guy didn't hurt his shoulder.

The '06 Cardinals- The New '73 Mets? (Sorry, but I have to be real about our chances)

by Zubin on Oct 22, 2006 2:33 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

My Lineup tomorrow

Eckstein - SS
Taguchi - LF
Pujols - 1B
Spiezio - DH (has hit Rogers VERY well)
Rolen - 3B
Edmonds - CF
Molina - C
Encarnacion - RF
Miles - 2B (has hit Rogers VERY well)

by stlcardi70 on Oct 22, 2006 3:01 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

anything that relegates Encarnacion to the bottom

of the order is fine by me. And no Preston Wilson, no problem. I'm not one that normally harps on Ks...unless it's associated with a bad OBP. Adam Dunn - in the clear. Preston, clearly a problem striking out his last 4 at bats IIRC.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Oct 22, 2006 3:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Miles is 1 for 3

lifetime vs. Rogers. Not a tremendous sample size. I say stick w/ Belly for defense and I think he'll come out of his offensive funk. But tonight should be a low-scoring game and Weaver gets ground balls. We need to turn those into outs and DP's.

by chuckb on Oct 22, 2006 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Where's Ronnie B

Good lineup except for one thing. I don't think there's any reason to take Belliard's bat out of the lineup against a lefty for Aaron Miles (a better left handed hitter) of all people. Do you really think Miles would have a good enough night offensively to make up for the defense Belliard provides. I don't think we're done seeing amazing things this year from Magglio Jr. (Anyone catch that hair??)

by Bird Watcher on Oct 22, 2006 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Spiezio's avg. as a DH is something like

.204. I would much rather have him play left or right with Taguchi playing the other spot.

by Mugrad on Oct 22, 2006 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wish you made out the lineup card...

Your lineup is far more logical than anything TLR has produced save for the NLCS game that kept JuanE on the bench. Spiezio's knack for producing runs I feel is wasted in the No. 2 spot (his best NLCS games were batting in the heart of the order) and Taguchi--or even Miles--are better served in that No. 2 spot. I just shake my head over the fact TLR still bats JuanE higher than No. 7. With JuanE batting fifth instead of Spiezio, that's all the more reason for Detroit to avoid giving Albert The Great anything to hit and unless Rolen produces, wasting any runners on base for the hitless wonder that is JuanE. Gotta hope Jimmy Baseball can come through vs. the crafty, hot-headed lefty. But sitting Taguchi over JuanE leaves me scratching my head.

Baily

by Baily on Oct 22, 2006 6:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Your lineup

Looks good based on the matchups, but I wouldn't split up the Pujols-Edmonds-Rolen trio at this point, esp after the way they hit in Game 1. I think you have to keep those guys together. How about Spiezio in the 2 hole and move the Guch lower to keep some speed in the bottom of the order.

by Baseball addict on Oct 22, 2006 3:06 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I'M SOOOOOOO HAPPY!

I'm going to the game tuesday. I finally get to take my dad. I had tix in 04 & 05 but we lost out before my games. I just can't get my girl to understand why I'm willing to pony up $400 to take my dad to the 1st WS game at the new park! watch it on tv she says. Silly women! But she is letting the middle name of our 1st child due dec 7 to be Kile after DK. So she does have her good qualities I guess. : ) I'm going to have my wonderful bloggin' phone at the game so I hope I can post wonderful things.

by snortyclaus on Oct 22, 2006 3:12 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Glad to hear you got tix

And that your dad will be able to make it.

by liam on Oct 22, 2006 7:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was born during the 1968 Cards-Tigers series

So I consider myself something of an expert on the matchup. And my expertness comes up with a prediction you can bet the house on .....

Cards in 5!!

Speaking of betting, I was able to get a nice bet on the Cardinals to win it all at 5-1 odds just before game 7 against the Mets. Another reason that the underdog role is great!

by Keep your hands off on Oct 22, 2006 3:13 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

20-1 to 25-1

Before the NLDS. That's sick.

by stevenucla on Oct 22, 2006 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So this is going to be

the team that wins it all?

God damn I love these guys.

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Oct 22, 2006 5:21 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

crazy game

sometimes it makes my statistically-oriented-engineering mind hurt. but i'll take what i can get!

Go Cards!

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Oct 22, 2006 5:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

NICE START, BUT IT AIN'T OVER YET.

AMAZING WIN GUYS! JUST AMAZING! I DON'T KNOW HOW YOU DID IT. BUT YOU DID. 1 DOWN, 3 TO GO. AND IT ONLY GETS HARDER FROM HERE ON OUT. IT'S NOT OVER BY A LONG SHOT. LAST NIGHT WAS GREAT. SIMPLY AMAZING.

THANK

YOU

GOD!

OUTSTANDING JOB BY EVERYONE LAST NIGHT. ANTHONY DID PITCH THE GAME OF HIS LIFE. ALL THE PRESSURE IN THE WORLD TO KEEP IT CLOSE AND NOT LET THE MIGHT TIGERS MAKE IT A BLOW OUT. AND WHAT DOES THE BOY DO? SHAKY IN THE 1ST, BUT THEN GOT 17 OUT IN A ROW. SIMPLY AMAZING! MV3 CAME UP HUGE. WHERE WERE THEY 2 YEARS AGO? THANKS FOR SHOWING UP GUYS. YOU WERE MISSED.

FUNNY, ROLEN GOES BATSHIT CRAZY IN A PLAYOFF GAME AND SUDDENLY HE IS DEAMED WORTHY ENOUGH TO HIT BEHIND ALBERT. I CALLED THAT ONE DID'T I?

NOW THAT ALL THE GOOD STUFF IS OUT OF THE WAY, HERE'S THE BAD NEWS. TWO LEFTY'S ARE PITCHING THE NEXT TWO STARTS AGINST US. NOT GOOD. NOT GOOD AT ALL. FACT IS ALL SEASON WE CANNOT HIT LEFTY'S. REMEMBER THE LIKES OF OLIVER&OLIVER IN THE LAST ROUND SHUT THIS TEAM DOWN. DON'T FORGET TOMMY BOYS GEM IN GAME 1 OF THE NLCS. KENNY ROGERS IS EXACTLY THE TYPE OF SOFT-TOSSING SALAD SHOOTER PITCHER THAT KILLS THE 2006 CARDINALS. AND HE HAS YET TO GIVE UP A RUN IN THE PLAYOFFS THIS YEAR. HE'S LAST START HE CARVED UP THE MIGHTY YANKEES LINEUP. WHICH IF YOU DIDN'T KNOW, IS THE GREATEST LINEUP IN BASEBALL HISTORY. HE IS PITCHING AT HOME WHERE HE IS ALWAYS AT HIS BEST. AND I THINK WORST OF ALL, LEYLAND IS PISSED. HE WILL HAVE HIS PLAYERS READY TO DO ALL KINDS OF DAMAGE AGAINS DREAM WEAVER. LEYLAND HATES LOOSING, AND WORSE HATES GETTING BEAT BADLY. WHICH IS WHAT HAPPEND LAST NIGHT. SO THERE IS THE EXTRA MOTOVATION THAT THE TIGERS DIDNT NEED TO SHOW JUST HOW GOOD OF A TEAM THEY ARE. THEY WILL COME OUT TOMORROW NIGHT READY TO GET SOME REVENGE AGINST THE CARDINALS. I JUST HOPE OUR GUYS KEEP PLAYING LOOSE&FREE AND DON'T TAKE TOO MUCH FROM LAST NIGHTS GAME. ITS ONLY 1 WIN. THEY NEED 3 MORE TO WIN IT ALL. THEY NEED TO KEEP THE PRESSURE ON. TAKE ROGERS THE OTHER WAY. HIT THE GAPS. JUAN NEEDS TO BREAK OUT BIG TIME.

I FOR ONE AM NOT BUYING THE HYPE. I HAVE WATCHED THIS TEAM BREAK MY HEART TOO MANY TIMES THIS SEASON. SURE THEY HAVE BEEN AWESOME FOR TWO WEEKS NOW. BUT WITH TWO LEFTY'S PITCHING NEXT, I JUST DON'T BELIEVE IN THIS TEAM YET. IT'S GOING TO TAKE 3 MORE GAMES LIKE LAST NIGHT TO MAKE ME A BELIVER. I JUST HOPE THEY GET THOSE WINS BY THURSDAY. FOR ALL WE KNOW, ALL THEY DID LAST NIGHT WAS PISS OFF THE NEIGHBORHOOD BULLY. AND COME TOMORROW NIGHT THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY. MY FINGERS ARE CROSSED THATS NOT WHAT THEY DID. BUT AFTER THEY YEAR THEY HAVE HAD, I HAVE LEARNED TO TAKE EVERY VICTORY WITH A GRAIN OF SALT. I HAVE LEARNED TO EXPECT THE WORST FROM THIS CARDINALS TEAM. AND EVERYTHING ABOVE THAT IS ALL CHERRY'S ON TOP OF THE HOT FUDGE SUNDAE THAT IS BEING A CARDINALS FAN.

TRULY THAT WAS A NICE START. BUT THATS ALL IT WAS. IT DOES NOT GET ANY EASIER FROM HERE. I FACT IT GET HARDER. DREAM WEAVER AND SUP NEED TO KEEP PITCHING LIKE THEIR LIVES DEPEND ON IT. ALL CARP NEEDS TO DO IS KEEP BEING CARP. AND ARE MV3'S NEED TO KEEP HITTING. WOULDN'T HURT ONE BIT IF JUAN&RONNIE JOINED THE PARADE.

MANY QUESTIONS STILL HAUNT THIS CARDINALS TEAM. CAN THEY FINALLY BREAK THROUGH AND HIT A LEFTY STARTING PITCHER? CAN MV3 REPET LASTS NIGHTS PERFORMANCE OVER AND OVER AGAIN? CAN SUP&DREAM WEAVER KEEP PITCHING GIBSON AND CARP? CAN TAGUCHI, YADDA AND SPEIZER KEEP IT HITTING IN THE CLUTCH?

AS USUAL I HAVE NO ANSWERS. BUT FOR ONCE I AM ACTUALLY ENJOYING THE RIDE. KEEP IT GOING GUYS. YOU ARE MAKING US ALL SO VERY PROUD.

GIVE'EM HELL GUYS.

KEEP FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT.

GO DOWN SWINGING.

GOOD NIGHT VEB. I'LL SEE YA, TOMORROW NIGHT.

GO CARDINALS

From THE MAN, to Gibby, to The Wizard, to Albert the Great. Cardinal Tradition lives on.

by gdm426 on Oct 22, 2006 6:12 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I think

I found where all LB's capital letters went!!

Tonight is the key; going back to St. L up 2, with Carp & Soup on tap? The dream would begin to take real shape if Weaver can lock it down like Reyes did last night...but I echo your thoughts--it ain't gonna be easy. The Tigers are tough, and unless Rogers turns back into a playoff pumpkin, it depends on our past playoff pumpkin to keep the Birds in it...

by glennrwordman on Oct 22, 2006 8:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

If we win Vs Rogers...

... we really have a shot at it, as Rogers is our bane pitcher, a soft tossing lefty. I hope Albert and Scott can jump on him really early to scramble his game plan, and that Weaver uses his marvelous fastball as effective as Reyes did.

GO CARDS!!

by SuperSeve on Oct 22, 2006 9:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Glavine

We got to him. We can get to Rogers. We have been seeing lefty's for most of the postseason. We'll get our hits!

I'm just here for the Bud Light...

by OKCardsfan on Oct 22, 2006 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

scoreless streak

rogers has a nice shiny scoreless innings streak going in this postseason...kinda like glavine did coming into game 5.

i say bustin up glavine's run was so fun, we should do it to rogers tonight in a big way!

Pujols For MVP!

by TheFranchise9 on Oct 22, 2006 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dude...

stop screaming, I have a heaache..

by cardsrul on Oct 22, 2006 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

or

headache, if you speak English.

by cardsrul on Oct 22, 2006 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

TOLAXOR???

Is that you in there?

by liam on Oct 22, 2006 7:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good morning all

Just thought I'd take a minute to check in, them I'd headed over to Keith Law's blog. I want to find out exactly what bone-headed mistakes that the Tigers made which caused them to lose a game that they clearly should have won to an obviously inferior team like the Cardinals. >:-D

Go get 'em tonight Weava!

"He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again."

by iron duke75 on Oct 22, 2006 8:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Doh!

Just read LB's update on the most recent Law diary...

Letting it go, time now... :-)

"He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again."

by iron duke75 on Oct 22, 2006 8:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I thought it was pretty accurate

If Law kept his condescending tone to the way it is in that article, I'd like him a lot because it's a neutral analysis. Some of his other ones have just seemed like he just lost a few G's in Vegas and is pissed about the game. Though he didn't realize this wasn't Reyes game-of-life.

I also disagree on Reyes changeup-first approach in the first inning. The Tigers are known for aggresiveness i.e. sit fastball, which would fit with throwing changeups. Now it didn't work, but it did actually set up the way he pitched the rest of the game. They had changeup in the back of their mind and he'd give them fastball and as soon as they'd think "maybe this guy is just throwing fastballs" he'd drop the change. Quite a Duncan-perfected game plan.

Pujols > God

by joker24 on Oct 22, 2006 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

was it a dream??

wanna really feel good?? go to motownsports.com and check out the comments there!!! they were all saying tigers in 4 maybe 5!!! ha their all freaking out now!! God i lo0ve this team!!

by CCERUTTI on Oct 22, 2006 9:20 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Why Tony Doesn't (or Didn't) Like Reyes?

From this article:

http://msnbc.msn.com/id/15366461/

"That style is not attractive," Cardinals manager Tony La Russa opined. "It has something to do with his concentration and focus. I don't think it's going to be copied widely by the kids of America."

Appears TLR doesn't appreciate the flat cap and high socks.

by holden on Oct 22, 2006 10:00 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Reyes drafted by Detroit!

Holy crap, Reyes was drafted by Detroit his junior year but finished school instead! Wow!

by sdrone on Oct 22, 2006 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not high school

College. He was drafted junior year out of USC, but opted to graduate instead. And yes, I hate USC.

by stevenucla on Oct 22, 2006 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Unless of course

you refer to USC as high school. As I do.

by stevenucla on Oct 22, 2006 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You mean...

U niversity of

S econd

C hoice?

by Ignatius J Reilly on Oct 22, 2006 3:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Or

University of Spoiled Children

by stevenucla on Oct 22, 2006 7:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

There were 2 really key moments

in last night's game. One was the AB where Reyes got Pudge in the 1st inning. He got the ball in on his hands and induced the little blooper to Belliard. If that ball has about 5 more feet of carry, it's 3-0 and an entirely different ballgame.

The other was, of course, Rolen's homer. It told our team several things: that Pujols was gonna have some help and the team relaxed, that we could compete in this series, and that we were gonna be in that game. To me, it was like that moment in game 4 of the Padres series where Carp was awful in the 1st inning, but went back to the dugout just down 2. The hitters were saying, "It's only 2, it's only 2" and we got 2 in the bottom half of the 1st. Then we rolled. Weren't we thinking, "It's only 1" last night and Rolen came out and tied it and everything turned. Those 2 AB's really set the stage for our victory last night.

by chuckb on Oct 22, 2006 10:09 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I agree, Rolen's homer was BIG

I hope his shoulder's OK.

Of cousre, we could all be full of crap; his shoulder might not be an issue at all.

by sdrone on Oct 22, 2006 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

another one

Another key moment was Duncan's two-out double. Not only did it knock in the go-ahead run, but it brought Pujols to the plate to hit the HR. That was essentially a three run double.

That was the only AB where Duncan managed to get ahead in the count, and he took advantage.

by Speedy G on Oct 22, 2006 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

no question

Plus, hopefully it'll give him some confidence for the rest of the series. Hitting's contagious. Hopefully, he's caught the bug!

by chuckb on Oct 22, 2006 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Belliard really slowed up on the bloop

That was a good 10 feet from a hit.

Pujols > God

by joker24 on Oct 22, 2006 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gawd

I love this pic...

Look at the Gooch at the top left! :-D

"He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again."

by iron duke75 on Oct 22, 2006 10:14 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

top of the world, ma!

thnx, i'll put that one in my collection. :)

"Go Crazy, Folks! Go Crazy!"

by erik on Oct 22, 2006 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Love Eckstein

smashed in the middle there. Where's Tony of LaRabia? Also, is that Marquis in the upper right hand corner? (I can say his name now that he'll officially never pitch for the Cardinals again).

"I don't believe what I just saw!" ~ Jack Buck

by itsalemmon1019 on Oct 22, 2006 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah,

terrible chemistry in THAT clubhouse...winning creates chemistry.

by glennrwordman on Oct 22, 2006 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Man, only time I've seen Weaver smile.

n/t

by sdrone on Oct 22, 2006 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Never would have picked

Pettini for a light-beer man...

by liam on Oct 22, 2006 8:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Love this one too

"He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again."

by iron duke75 on Oct 22, 2006 10:26 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

am i dreaming?

we actually won last night, right? someone pinch me please.

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Oct 22, 2006 10:29 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Great post, lb

My family is from Missouri, but I spent the first eight years of my life in Dallas; I obviously didn't root much for Steve Buechele, Oddibe McDowell and the Rangers, so I picked the Tigers as my team. My first game was Tigers/Rangers and my dad bought me a Detroit cap at the game, which I still have. When I moved to Springfield, MO, I assumed my birthright as a Cardinals fan, but have always had a soft spot for the Tigers. It made me very happy to cross them off my list of "Teams I've Never Seen in the Playoffs" (my first postseason of rapt attention was 1988), not to mention the World Series.

Even better, though? Watching my first Cardinals World Series win EVER! I had about 25 people (and about six playoff beards) at my home and it was a madhouse.

Here's to three more wins!!!!

"I don't believe what I just saw!" ~ Jack Buck

by itsalemmon1019 on Oct 22, 2006 10:33 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

It's Eric on SUndays, baby

I made the same mistake last Sunday.

by sdrone on Oct 22, 2006 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm kind of an idiot

Apologies, Erik

"I don't believe what I just saw!" ~ Jack Buck

by itsalemmon1019 on Oct 22, 2006 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have trouble

hating this Tiger team, too, despite my history with them. I've always liked Leyland; then there's Polanco, and the fact that I know Brandon Inge. I can't even muster up any bad feelings for The Gambler; but then again, I'm not a cameraman... ;-)

by cardsrul on Oct 22, 2006 10:33 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

It's Erik the Rev posting this morning

actually.

But agreed, great post. :-)

"He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again."

by iron duke75 on Oct 22, 2006 10:34 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

We owned Rogers earlier this year...

Something like 7 hits and 5 ER in 5 innings. But this playoffs version of Rogers has been pretty freaking amazing so far this year.

Miller sucks.

by Ankiels Missing Curveball on Oct 22, 2006 10:46 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Soft-tossing lefties

You mean like Glavine?

by Red in Chicago on Oct 22, 2006 11:24 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Okay....

so it wasn't a dream. Game 1. Wow. GO BIRDS GO!!!

by rockin redbird on Oct 22, 2006 11:28 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Cards AAA coach was in the dugout

I'm sure that helped Reyes, but I hope even more that he didn't need him.

by sdrone on Oct 22, 2006 11:28 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Sounds Dumb But....

When I woke up yesterday I really thought there was no way Cards could pull off this series, as badly as I wanted them to. However it took one quote from Scotty Ro to change my opinion on the whole thing. "In 2004, it felt like that World Series just slipped by us. We were down, 2 games to 0, before we even knew what happened. And the next thing we knew, we got swept. This, to me, is an opportunity to get it right. This time, I think we're going to make sure we enjoy being in the World Series."
The quote to me sums it up, the Cardinals are not only ready this time but they are playing with fun, and a looseness we have never seen TLR give to his teams in the playoffs....I think this year is the year.

by Darko13 on Oct 22, 2006 11:31 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

listening to the audio from last nights game

is it just me or does shannon always sound like he's just bored watching the game. i like rooney's emotion a lot better, its much more entertaining

by jojo5492 on Oct 22, 2006 12:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Shannon

always sounds totally drunk. He reminds me of my grandfather, who was also always totally drunk.

by RedPants on Oct 22, 2006 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He has sounded tired and worn out

now for the last few months. I think it has a lot to do with his wife's illness.

Walk your dog, not Pujols.

by Hardcore Legend on Oct 22, 2006 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Shithole of the Rainbow

I loyally followed the team all year and watched them go through multiple losing streaks. So I kind of just assume some how that this team is going to blow it. But by doing that I kind of have this inner peace inside of me. I don't get as excited when something good happens but also don't get as mad when something bad happens. I just kind of forget about what just happened and concentrate on the next task. I think the exact same thing has happened to this team.

Everyone wrote them off so they got no more expectations on them. They have tasted both sides of the rainbow this year. They have completely stunk and been at the bottom of the shit hole. They were also riding high at the beginning of year. They are emotionally drained by the roller coaster of the year. They now can just concentrate on baseball.

They have gained great knowledge through this turbulent year. They know now that even when things look bad that it is not over with. When things look good don't loosen up cause they can go to shit awfully fast. They got emotionally drained and now they can focus on baseball. They are afraid to put their hopes back out their so the pressure of the World Series does not even affect them. They can just play ball.

by DimitroffVodka on Oct 22, 2006 12:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

yes and no

i agree with everything you say except for the part about the cards blowing it. they are in the world series against a extremely talented tiger team. what is there to blow? there's no shame in anything at this point. we're already champions!

Pujols For MVP!

by TheFranchise9 on Oct 22, 2006 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

There is

absolutely no pressure on these guys, and they are thriving on it. I've seen more emotion out of guys like Edmonds and Carp in this post-season than at any time during the season, and it's great to see.

by cardsrul on Oct 22, 2006 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

agree

i have the same feelings about this team, and they started when albert broke the seven game losing streak, up until that point i was getting very upset at losses and very up for the few wins we were getting at the time, but after albert hit that homer, it was like i have just been in a calm, i am just watching this team and enjoying baseball

by bigcardsfan5 on Oct 22, 2006 5:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's because Belly's

new Fozzy Bear 'do reduced his speed.

The braids were much more aerodynamic.

Kind of like putting a ground-effects wing on a Chrysler Minivan.

by Red in Chicago on Oct 22, 2006 12:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

He looks less hip-hop ...

and more like a samoan wild man

hmmmmm

by Urban Pawnee on Oct 22, 2006 2:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anyone have any opinions on

Ronnie Belliard's scrubalicious new hairdo? I think it's pretty sweet.

It's big enough to have the added advantage of distracting and possibly obstructing baserunners!

by RedPants on Oct 22, 2006 12:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

FOX is an insult to professional journalism!!!!!

FOX postseason coverage has been unforgivable, don't you think? Is it so hard to acknowledge that the Cardinals, who won over 100 games in each of the previous two years with a team that was headlined by Pujols, Rolen, Edmonds and Carpenter, just as they are this year, might actually be, you know, good?

Read the commentary that FOX SHOULD have given prior and pursuant to last night's remarkable Game 1 victory.

http://blabofthepave.blogspot.com/2006/10/cards-win.html

"Enamored" takes the preposition "of," not "with."

by MKDCardinal on Oct 22, 2006 1:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Thats nothing

Rob Neyer picked the Tigers to win the World Series in 3 games.

by DimitroffVodka on Oct 22, 2006 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Once again,

I have to say "who cares?" This is not a slap at you personally, MKD; I just can't figure why people get so worked up over what is written or said about this team. Need I remind everyone that three weeks ago, a lot of us(myself included) were burying this team, just waiting for ST. So hy should we get so upset when others are saying basically the same things we were? It doesn't matter...

by cardsrul on Oct 22, 2006 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I like all this

negative media attention. TLR actually used it. He showed the team Neyers Tigers in 3 article. Could you imagine being PUjols or Edmonds or Rolen reading that? This to a certain degree is making the team more cohesive or more task oriented. THe "we'll show these a-holes Tigers in three!" Keep it up naysayers and doubters and detractors!

I'm just here for the Bud Light...

by OKCardsfan on Oct 22, 2006 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

they can't say whatever they want

it don't matter!

by Urban Pawnee on Oct 22, 2006 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

errata:

they CAN say whatever they want!

my bad

by Urban Pawnee on Oct 22, 2006 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was upset.....

that they barely acknowledged how well Reyes pitched.....and yes, he didn't just throw he PITCHED. I expect both of tonight's starters to PITCH, and not just throw tonight as well. I really hope Weaver is on; I also hope Rogers is on.......I want to see how both teams react to having to scratch out runs, be on defensively. Really, I wish for a GREAT game, with the Cardinals on top, of course.

by jillsinmo on Oct 22, 2006 1:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

What I do like

is all the attention being given to Reyes' style. His hat this, his socks that.

Every baseball player should be required to wear their socks up and that's that, in my opinion.

by RedPants on Oct 22, 2006 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

The '06 Cardinals- The New '73 Mets? (Sorry, but I have to be real about our chances)

by Zubin on Oct 22, 2006 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I like

your signature thread. I think the 06 Cards have resembled every team from the past. HOw about the 06 Cardinals - THe new 06 Cardinals? (Sorry but I have no idea what the heck our chances are cause so far, this shouldn't be happening.)

This definetly has been a strange season hasn't it? Think 3 weeks ago if someone said we'd be here (ItouchedMcgee) I'd of had my reservations. NOw that we are, I feel like it's not the WS, like I'm just watching another regular season game. It's weird, does anybody else feel like this is not really the WS?

I'm just here for the Bud Light...

by OKCardsfan on Oct 22, 2006 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Reyes pitched?

Judging by his comments, I'd say Reyes threw and Molina "pitched". Reyes said something like, "I just concentrated on hitting the glove." And, Albert mentioned he never saw Reyes shake of Yadi even once.

He had great stuff, worked it up and down, and all...but, I'm not ready to give Reyes credit for outsmarting anyone.

by RedbirdRay on Oct 22, 2006 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Weather report:

Today: Cloudy with showers. High 51F. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch.

Tonight: Rain showers this evening mixing with snow showers overnight. Low 37F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of precip 40%.

by cardsrul on Oct 22, 2006 1:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Lets say it gets rained out

So lets say the game gets rained out and pushed back to Monday. Would you change the rotation? Flip Weaver to game 4 starter? Carpenter would be on full rest for game 2 on monday. Suppan would be game 3 starter. Weaver would than be Game 4 starter.

This would set up Carpenter to pitch game 6 and Suppan game 7.

I personally would not do it. I would not want to mess with Weaver's confidence at all. He has pitched good enough to win in all his starts. I would let the Rotation stay as is.

by DimitroffVodka on Oct 22, 2006 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Tough Call

You would think you would want Carp and Soup fully rested for 6 and 7 cause history shows short rest does not help a pitcher. OTOH, Weaver has been pitching some gems and your right you wouldn't want to mess with his confidence. However, Weaver and Reyes could have essentially flipped spots from the NLCS. So Reyes pitches twice instead of Weaver.
NLCS WS
Weave Reyes
Carp Carp
Soup Soup
Reyes Weave
Weaver Reyes
Carp Carp
Soup Soup

Reyes got through one of his starts already. So if he goes short in the next start, it's something that kinda was expected last night. But another thing is that Reyes might be better suited for the vast expanse of Comerica Park instead of the confines of Busch. SOme things to think about for sure!

I'm just here for the Bud Light...

by OKCardsfan on Oct 22, 2006 2:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Confidence, sh-monfidence...

a rainout gives us 4 of the final 6 games with Carp and Supp pitching on full rest including both games 6 and 7.

Do it.

The alternative is those two on short rest for 6 or 7, or only one start by Supp, who is currently our best pitcher.

The drop off from Weaver to Supp big enough to warrant a possible confidence blow.

by guayzimi on Oct 22, 2006 2:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Another thing

NLCS Weaver won one of his games. WS Reyes if he pitches twice, has won one of his games. So Reyes has done what Weaver did already, regardless of the outcome of his second start.

I'm just here for the Bud Light...

by OKCardsfan on Oct 22, 2006 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd keep it as-is

With Weaver and Carp's home/road splits, I think you want to have Weaver pitching on the road for game 2 and Carp at home for game 3. It gives you the best chance to avoid playing games 6 and 7, in which case the point about two starts from Supe becomes moot.

by Dirk Dorkelson on Oct 22, 2006 4:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Personal Opnion

I have looked over the weather information. It is currently a light rain there with a storm off to the west. I think it will barely miss it and will blow over Detroit from winds coming from the South West.

I think this game will happen tonight but it is going to cold and wet. Will be about 40 degrees.

by DimitroffVodka on Oct 22, 2006 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Does that hurt...

the finesse-location pitcher more than the power pitcher?

Seems like it should, but I don't know enough about pitching to say for sure...

by guayzimi on Oct 22, 2006 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Any word on tonight's official line-up?

by riescher on Oct 22, 2006 1:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Cartoon

by DimitroffVodka on Oct 22, 2006 2:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

THT comments on the swing from last night's game

........More importantly, the Cardinals Game 1 win has a substantial effect on the likely outcomes of the series. Before the first pitch, the Tigers had a 63.4% probability of winning the series (70.6% if you like league adjustments.) After Ivan Rodriguez flew out to end the game, the Tigers had only a 42.0% likelihood of winning the series. (49.1% with the league adjustment.)......

http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/world-series-cardinals-vs-tigers-st-louis-grabs-game-1/

by RedbirdRay on Oct 22, 2006 2:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

After I think about it..... New Lineup for Tonight

Eckstein - SS
Speizio - DH
Pujols - 1B
Rolen - 3B
Edmonds - CF
Encarnacion - RF
Molina - C
Belliard - 2B
Taguchi - LF

by stlcardi70 on Oct 22, 2006 2:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Not saying your wrong about your predictions

but Spiezio's lifetime average as a DH is something to the tone of .204. Not that great.

My guess would look something like this.

Eckstien SS
Taguchi RF
Pujols 1B
Spiezio LF
Rolen 3B
Edmonds CF
Wilson/Encarnacion (juan is 0 for 4 against KR)
Molina C
Belliard 2B

by Mugrad on Oct 22, 2006 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

One change in that line up?...

I'd sit Encarnacion....the guy looks lost at the plate to me...had a error in right last night that allowed a runner to get to 2nd on a single...0-3 with a walk... Maybe let Taguchi take it over tonight

by Timbo02 on Oct 22, 2006 3:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

woops...

sorry didn't see you had So in Left....

by Timbo02 on Oct 22, 2006 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wilson would be the only RH alternative

Pick your poison between he and Encarnacion - I would take Encarnacion at this point. They both seem like automatic outs at right now....

by wildman on Oct 22, 2006 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Weaver's motivation

I have no idea why Todd Jones would be loco enough to say this (see link below under "Jones Jabs at Weaver"), but I love Weaver's "high road" response. Maybe he really is maturing.....but you know inside that he's going to be fired up tonight. Hopefully that leads to high quality pitching and another "dream" from the Weaver.

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/stories.nsf/cardinals/story/BB605B6ACF90FF8B8625720F0012CD47 ?OpenDocument

And about this lefty thing...don't forget that we scored 16 of our 28 runs in the NLCS against lefties (and that doesn't include the 2 stolen by Endy Chavez off of Oliver Perez). We can do this!

GO CARDS!

by wildman on Oct 22, 2006 3:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Surprising

Not sure what Jones' point was...

"He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again."

by iron duke75 on Oct 22, 2006 4:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Weaver vs. TLR

I have seen a lot of comparisons of these two managers. But, despite being such close friends and working so long with each other...I just am not sure I agree these two are so similar in style.

TLR would have never moved Polonco to the third slot after not batting him there all year.

TLR wouldn't have pitched to Albert with a base open, RISP and 2 outs.

TLR wouldn't have chosen to play Santiago over Thames.

I like Leyland, but think he's quite overrated.

by RedbirdRay on Oct 22, 2006 3:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I respectfully

disagree. Leyland is a very good manager, and not the only one who has managed differently in the playoffs. You don't have to look any further than TLR to see that.

by cardsrul on Oct 22, 2006 4:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Soft throwing lefties vs. hard throwing lefties...

I've read a lot of comments about the Cardinals vs. soft-tossing lefties. Somehow these seems to carry over to the sentiment that we cannot hit any lefties.

I don't think that is true. We have man-handled the likes of Wagner, Duke, Ollie Perez (prior to his last start) and others.

I think we have a lot of guys who can hit the left handed fastballs. It's the junk we have trouble with. Therefore...Rogers = concerned, Robertson = not so much.

by RedbirdRay on Oct 22, 2006 3:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

they both throw hard compared to Glavine

by Mugrad on Oct 22, 2006 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Playoff song

Is it true that "Move Along" is the playoff song this season?

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Oct 22, 2006 3:44 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

weather.com

Time Condition Feels Like Chance Precip Dew Point Humid. Wind

6pm Showers
46°F
39°F 50% 40°F 77% From WNW 17 mph

7pm Showers
44°F
36°F 50% 38°F 76% From WNW 17 mph

8pm Showers
43°F
35°F 40% 37°F 76% From WNW 16 mph

9pm Showers
41°F
33°F 40% 36°F 79% From WNW 16 mph

10pm Rain / Snow Showers
39°F
31°F 30% 35°F 82% From WNW 15 mph

by madding on Oct 22, 2006 3:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

From Channel 2 in Detroit

# 8 PM
# 45°F
# Drizzle
# Showers tapering off...patchy drizzle

by cardsrul on Oct 22, 2006 4:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

matt leach

sounds like we will indeed have a game -http://yourenotagolfer.mlblogs.com/obviously_youre_not_a_gol/2006/10/like_the_weathe.html

"Go Crazy, Folks! Go Crazy!"

by erik on Oct 22, 2006 4:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You have to think

That if the Cardinals can pull off another victory tonight, it will be very difficult for the Tigers to come back and win 4 of the next 5. I mean we'll be going back home to St. Louis with Carp and Supp on the mound for games 3 and 4 respectively.

Let's hope the Dream goes out and shuts down that lineup tonight. The Dream has now had 3 SOLID outings this postseason. It must be the blonde mane.

"And that's a winner. A World Series winner for the Cardinals."

by Bird Watcher on Oct 22, 2006 4:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

OT: LMAO

Check out this video clip...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mx51BgKjn8&mode=related&search=

"He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again."

by iron duke75 on Oct 22, 2006 4:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

wow

amazing

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Oct 22, 2006 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think I heard something similar

I'm pretty sure one of Fox's NFL guys messed up the Bucs, if you know what I mean.

Muck the Fets

by viva el rojo pajaro 42 on Oct 22, 2006 5:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Holy cow

That's hilarious.

by liam on Oct 22, 2006 8:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bernies nickname for the 2k6 Cardinals

"The Schoolhouse Gang"...I like it.

Miller sucks.

by Ankiels Missing Curveball on Oct 22, 2006 5:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Lucky Girls

On Thursday afternoon, my wife gave birth to two beautiful twin girls. Let me lay out the time line...

Wed Night - Cards Lose Game 6 of NLCS
Thur Afternoon - Miki and Maya are born
Thur Night - Cards Win Game 7 of NLCS
Sat Night - Cards Win Game 1 of WS

Since they have been born, the Cards have not lost. I know it is based on a small sample size, but I think they are very lucky for the cardinals.

by Okasa on Oct 22, 2006 5:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Congratulations!

Miller sucks.

by Ankiels Missing Curveball on Oct 22, 2006 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good for you

I hope your girls live long, healthy, happy lives. And should the Cardinals go undefeated for the next 80- well thats just gravy.

Muck the Fets

by viva el rojo pajaro 42 on Oct 22, 2006 5:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That should read

the next 80 years- well...

Muck the Fets

by viva el rojo pajaro 42 on Oct 22, 2006 5:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

congrats!

i have one on the way, too. baby, world series= a good year!

"Go Crazy, Folks! Go Crazy!"

by erik on Oct 22, 2006 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

congrats

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Oct 22, 2006 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

congrats

and I hope they sock it to the gambler tonight, but am more than happy with a split in DET...this series is not over by far and am shocked at all the cards in 5 talk...Im not being negative, but have learned with the 06 cards not to get my hopes up too much cause you could be smashed on the rocks the next day...However this is the most consistent ball of all year...tough fought games is all i want, and hope weaver doesnt turn into that other guy tonight

by punchinjudy on Oct 22, 2006 5:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Congratulations!

by liam on Oct 22, 2006 8:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lineups, per BM

Eckstein 6
Spiezio, DH
Pujols 3
Rolen 5
Encarnacion 9
Edmonds 8
Wilson 7
Molina 2
Miles 4

--B

by El Hombre on Oct 22, 2006 5:40 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

already miss

belly

by punchinjudy on Oct 22, 2006 5:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wilson. Ack.

n/t

by sdrone on Oct 22, 2006 5:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Who the hell is Igntious J Reilly??

hes a card fan ( i guess??) over on the detroit tigers board szucking up to all the fans over there!! its really quite embarressing!! we dont owe anybody nothing for being here. the cards played gritty and hard for 9 innings and earned their spot. i wish this fellow would qwuit making assinine axcuses on their board

by CCERUTTI on Oct 22, 2006 6:06 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs