Game ninety one open thread: 18 July 2007

Unspecified reasons...

...nice.

I guess I might as well stick around and watch the Kip Wells era end tonight. If he gives up 5 runs in the first 2 innings, I'm going for ice cream.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 5:58 PM EDT reply actions

Can I come too?

by cardsgirl95 on Jul 18, 2007 6:00 PM EDT up reply actions

Every Day

That we here about "Unspecified reasons" the paranoid in me thinks that Edmonds was suspended.

by Harknights on Jul 18, 2007 6:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Ichiro

Has anyone else seen the crazy deal the M's are giving Ichiro?

by gdowdy3 on Jul 18, 2007 6:01 PM EDT reply actions

great article here:

Mariners Bring Hargrove Back After Ichiro Signs Extension

Panic!!!

by SleepyCA on Jul 18, 2007 6:21 PM EDT up reply actions

Is that for real? Or something

from the onion?

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 6:26 PM EDT up reply actions

erm, it's something from brushback.com

from the article, in bright red letters:

"This article is satire and is not intended as actual news."

Panic!!!

by SleepyCA on Jul 18, 2007 6:34 PM EDT up reply actions

OOPS....I missed it....

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions

Johan Santana is pitching for the Twins

tonight on ESPN. He is my favorite pitcher to watch, so I'm going to watch that, and look in on the Cards game. Maybe Mr. Wells has figured some things out and will be okay. Willis hasn't been pitching well this year, so maybe if they don't look at his frenzied motion too much, they might be able to hit him. Here's hoping........and no offense Cards, and Card fans, but Johan is the man......

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 6:05 PM EDT reply actions

I'll have

Johan on the TV and the Cards game on the computer.

MLB.TV really comes in handy.

my web log

by matty fred on Jul 18, 2007 6:10 PM EDT up reply actions

Showoff!

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 6:11 PM EDT up reply actions

I'll have the Cardinals game on for 2 innings

go get ice cream and comeback to watch Johan in HD.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 6:12 PM EDT up reply actions

Bigger Showoff!

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions

I'll have...

Cards on the Computer (mlb.tv) AND Johan on the TV in HD.

;)

by Big Red on Jul 18, 2007 6:52 PM EDT up reply actions

Edwards

I saw something somewhere (could've been here) saying Jimmy was going to be activated tomorrow.

Since he doesn't (isn't allowed to) play against lefties anymore, seems a reasonable guess on why they'd wait until tomorrow.

by player2bnamedl8r on Jul 18, 2007 6:06 PM EDT reply actions

That is the reason

no real conspiracy theory.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 6:12 PM EDT up reply actions

It at least makes sense that is first game back is

not against a lefty

by Valatan on Jul 18, 2007 6:16 PM EDT up reply actions

Yeah, but why not activate him

I'd rather him PH late in the game than Skippy.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 6:28 PM EDT up reply actions

Or if there was a last minute pitching

change or if Willis exits early. Let's get on with it........

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 6:29 PM EDT up reply actions

Exactly.

Willis suffers a blister on his finger and is out of there in the 3rd. Kip gives up 5 runs in the first 3 innings. I'd prefer the double switch to be Kip and So out, Edmonds in.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions

That makes too much sense, though...

so obviously, it didn't happen.

by player2bnamedl8r on Jul 18, 2007 6:32 PM EDT up reply actions

The problem is that

I just substituted Edwards in to pitch and play CF. It's bold, but I'm not sure it would work just yet.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 6:39 PM EDT up reply actions

I'm glad you noticed...because I didn't

But it'd be worth a shot. Maybe Jimmy has an eephus pitch he can lob up there.

by player2bnamedl8r on Jul 18, 2007 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions

Skip is batting

.444 against lefties, according to his splits.

by nycardfan on Jul 18, 2007 6:34 PM EDT up reply actions

If Carpenter has TJ surgery

and is out of the 2008 season, should the Cardinals look to make a trade at the deadline this year in preparation for next year? I understand they have Mulder, Wainwright, Maroth, Looper, Reyes, Thompson all under contract to go alone with Narveson,etc but should they look at someone like Matt Morris, who has 1 year + 1 club option left on his contract?

Morris would cost the rest of this season plus $10.5 M for next year ($9.5 plus 1M buyout for 2009). That is what Carpenter is being paid for next year.

Morris isn't great (trust me, I know this) but I'd trust him a lot better than Looper and Maroth at this point. Don't get me wrong, I like both guys but Morris has a better track record.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 6:35 PM EDT reply actions

revisiting the injury matrix

in light of the information presented in the "injury insurance...?" thread, if they were willing to reinvest carpenter's salary from half of this year plus all of the salary for next year (or whatever they get via the insurance settlement), we could potentially afford to be major players in the trade/free agent pool this off-season.

In fact, this will free up enough money that even A-Rod no longer seems unattainable. Or any one of the big-name pitchers that may become available- burnett, arroyo, morris, etc. We should be very disappointed if SOMETHING does not shake loose and soon imho.

Panic!!!

by SleepyCA on Jul 18, 2007 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions

I'm sorry, but I want Carlos Zambrano.

He's a free agent at the end of the year......in all seriousness, they are going to have to sign and possibly trade for some starting pitching.

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions

bring on Big Z

but only if the deal is less than 5 years. giving a pitcher a deal longer than 5 years is stupid crazy in this day and age.

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 6:52 PM EDT up reply actions

I understand that

but acquiring Zambrano is a whole different animal. He wouldn't be a replacement for Carpenter as far as salary and years because he is going to command at least a 5 year commitment.

I'm talking about a guy like Morris who would fill-in for 2007 and 2008 only.

Another guy is AJ Burnett. However, with Burnett you have the fear that he DOESN'T opt out of his contract after '08 and you are stuck with his $12 M per for the next 3 years.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 6:53 PM EDT up reply actions

Morris sucks

he's fifth starter material, there are similar pitchers that can be a had at a small fraction of his salary.

Zambrano is a disaster waiting to happen too, there's so many things that could go wrong with him: he's very wild, and is an injury waiting to happen.

I think we should take the lesson of this offseason to heart and not overpay for veteran starting pitching.

Cardinal fan from Washington

by JI on Jul 18, 2007 7:18 PM EDT up reply actions

I disagree re: Big Z

Zambrano seems to me like the pitching version of a Vladimir Guerrero. Someone whose mechanics and overexertion makes you feel like he's gonna give at any moment, but he continues to be a top-of-the-game player at his position, and relatively injury-free.

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 7:23 PM EDT up reply actions

I'm sure there's

a hokey used car analogy in here somewhere.

There are 1,600 professional innings on that arm, and like you said, he's a max effort guy. He's already proven to be somewhat of a freak, but would it be prudent at all to bet 9 figures and double down on that?

I'll pass all day long. His xFIP have been about 4.40 for the last 350 IP or so. I wonder if he's already hurt.

by plh903 on Jul 18, 2007 8:32 PM EDT up reply actions

9 figures, no

Maybe a 4 year, $60-70 mil. contract. But he'll want way more than that ($/year AND total years)

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 8:44 PM EDT up reply actions

Yep...He's one tough dude...he has never

spent a day on the DL. He is big and strong and takes great pride in slinging that baseball. Just make sure you have the right catcher for him.......He has said he wants to stay with the Cubs, and since he's a fan favorite they will surely try to keep him.....

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions

I respect

all the positive things being said about the big Z. My 'gut' doesn't like him -- perhaps because he is a Cub, or perhaps because he is a hot-head.
BUT... the mind boggles at how POSITIVE a combination it might be if Yadi was his catcher! I think they would feed off each other and be an awesome thing.
And if they both were wearing the birds on the bat I would have to love it, despite myself.

by CurtFlood on Jul 18, 2007 10:32 PM EDT up reply actions

He is a bit of a hot head, but he usually

directs at the batter. And I know there's the Barrett thing....but the other pitchers on the team jawed with him all the time too. Carlos was the only one to take things into his own hands....and they have been winning and their pitching has been better since Barrett is gone....so Carlos also has away of getting what he needs too. It would be fun to watch......

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 11:17 PM EDT up reply actions

Sure, there are

certain dollar/year amounts where I'd love to have him. We probably have slightly different ideas on those numbers, but neither one will get it done, and that's really all that matters.

My main point is that because he's pitched a ton of innings, in my mind, that makes it a riskier proposition. Regardless of his freaky nature so far.

by plh903 on Jul 18, 2007 9:53 PM EDT up reply actions

regardless

he's going to command at least a 5 year commitment, and even if he's not about to break down, the likelihood of him living up to a $100 M contract isn't good.

by chuckb on Jul 18, 2007 9:33 PM EDT up reply actions

Umm, no

A.J. Burnett is 30 years old and has been on the disabled list 10 times. He has shoulder and elbow issues. He has not been a reliable innings eater for quite some time. Please. Someone who has a reasonable chance to stay in the rotation.

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 7:22 PM EDT up reply actions

The AARP era lives....

The Braves just announced the signing of Julio Franco!

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 6:45 PM EDT reply actions

wow

one of the nicer stories (level three) of the season. I think Franco deserves a swansong tour, and I wouldn't be surprised if he gets a few key hits for them down the stretch.

by CurtFlood on Jul 18, 2007 10:35 PM EDT up reply actions

He spent several years with the Braves in the

past.

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 11:18 PM EDT up reply actions

Ervin Santana

Was optioned to Triple A should we look into acquiring him?

by Calhoun on Jul 18, 2007 6:53 PM EDT reply actions

Is he something Duncan can fix?

Obviously, he's got some issues that he isn't living up to his potential. However, is he a guy like Weaver that could use a slight tweak to his mechanics and become an above average pitcher or does he need a complete overhaul to miss bats?

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 6:55 PM EDT up reply actions

I don't know a whole bunch about him

but isn't he more of a hard throwing, strike out guy? You know, not the sinker/pitch to contact kinda guy. Plus, I believe he's now been through 2 organizations and crapped the bed twice and is still young.

He's got talent (but so does Kip), but I'm not sure if he's more like Reyes and less like a guy Dunc would help.

by Big Red on Jul 18, 2007 7:01 PM EDT up reply actions

optioned or outrighted or DFA

could be he's sent down for some re-tooling

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 7:20 PM EDT up reply actions

He has been a rather extreme fly ball

pitcher. He had a homerun problem so he'll run fastballs in high and tight to move guys off the plate. He's belonged to the Angels his whole career, he's still 24, and has had some success with them in the past. I think they would probably try to keep him. But he has really had problems this year, so who knows.

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 9:03 PM EDT up reply actions

My sporting new register says

Ervin Santana was signed by the Angels and has played only for them. Are we talking about the same pitcher?

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions

How about Arni Cruz?

Does this kid look like a player? He seems to be bolting through the system quite fast. If his Defense is ready I say give him a bat. He can't be any worse than Rolen and his gimpy shoulder. Anybody seen this kid play or got news on him?

The Red Blazer

by Red Blazer on Jul 18, 2007 6:55 PM EDT reply actions

As far as I know

this is all anyone know about Tony.

by Big Red on Jul 18, 2007 6:58 PM EDT up reply actions

I'm torn about this game

I obviously want the birds to win, but a good performance from wells means he'll continue to start games. So here's to a 16-13 wins for the cards.

by jeff abs on Jul 18, 2007 6:57 PM EDT reply actions

Ervin Santana

I saw this guy pitch at AA Arkansas and was greatly impressed. I enjoyed seeing him pitch.

I absolutely think Duncan could turn him into a great pitcher.

by MattKno8 on Jul 18, 2007 7:06 PM EDT reply actions

Nice Start

Good to see el Hombre drivin' em in early.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 7:09 PM EDT reply actions

Juan sucks

If he would have hustled, he'd have had an inside the park home run.

DFA NOW!!!

by Big Red on Jul 18, 2007 7:13 PM EDT reply actions

Don't like the cut of his jib

He gave Dave McKay the finger on the way past first!

Then he kicked a cute widdle groundhog on the way to second.

Nice swing, though.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 7:16 PM EDT up reply actions

DID YOU SEE THAT!?!

Bases loaded and he only knocks in 2.

He needs to show more passion.

by Big Red on Jul 18, 2007 7:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Dontrelle

Whats Al been smokin? Rick Ankiel as a centerpiece of a trade for Willis LOL

by Calhoun on Jul 18, 2007 7:17 PM EDT reply actions

I got a laugh outta that one

by jeff abs on Jul 18, 2007 7:18 PM EDT up reply actions

ehhhhh

Willis has been pretty mediocre for a few years now. The fish are in desperate need of a CF -- I'm not sure I see it as that unreasonable given Willis is moving through his arb years.

Future Redbirds

by azruavatar on Jul 18, 2007 7:29 PM EDT up reply actions

And he's struggled mightily this year........

it looks like he is catching too much of the plate. He's fun to watch, and I miss seeing that big toothy grin of his, but it's been that kind of a year.....

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Hooray!

Braves use up alot of their bullpen in 15-inning game the day before 4-game series with us!

Of course, we have Kip Wells on the mound, so we might be using 8 innings of relief pitching in a 9-inning game ourselves....

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 7:21 PM EDT reply actions

Kip Wells no-hitter watch: 1 IP

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 7:26 PM EDT reply actions

Wtf?

This lineup full of scrubs is putting up our 5th and 6th runs in the 2nd inning??

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 7:37 PM EDT reply actions

Dontrelle Willis

He's no Van den Hurk...

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 7:38 PM EDT up reply actions

WTF is exactly what I was thinking...

How has this lineup scored 6 runs while making 4 outs, and how does this team go from having so little energy last night to this tonight?

by BTown Birds fan on Jul 18, 2007 7:40 PM EDT up reply actions

Good Job, Val

You write a morning post about how Encarnacion is a useful, productive member of the lineup and he goes out and drives in 3 runs on three total bases in the first two innings.

Willis is really going through a rough stretch. Maybe Wells will pitch like he did when he came out of the pen for mop-up duty with this kind of lead.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 7:38 PM EDT reply actions

Encarnacion with a 2-run single

I am surprised.

Sparks of Dementia Still Demented.

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Jul 18, 2007 7:38 PM EDT reply actions

did I fall asleep?

I have to be dreaming.

by cardsgirlinAR on Jul 18, 2007 7:38 PM EDT reply actions

Does nobody slide anymore?

It's like the scene in Billy Madison where Billy intentionally pees his pants so Ernie wouldn't feel bad for having accidentally done so.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 7:41 PM EDT reply actions

yup

No kidding that is a JOKE pujols didn't slide right there lazy bumm...seriously that just cost us at least 1 run...

by Cardsgem on Jul 18, 2007 7:47 PM EDT up reply actions

Wait

It wasn't a foul tip?

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 7:48 PM EDT up reply actions

He must have expected

the Marlins to give up on playing solid defense after falling behind by six runs like the Cardinals shamefully do sometimes.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 7:51 PM EDT up reply actions

The "Is 6 Runs Enough for Kipper?" watch

begins. My vote: Probably not.

Sparks of Dementia Still Demented.

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Jul 18, 2007 7:42 PM EDT reply actions

Breaking News

Kip Wells loses no-hit bid with 24 outs to go on single by Josh Willingham.

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 7:43 PM EDT reply actions

aww

the one-hitter is intact, though

by tomsteele on Jul 18, 2007 7:44 PM EDT up reply actions

to think

the rumors of jocketty trading rasmus, duncan and reyes for dontrelle last year...we'd all be stabbing ourselves in the eyes if that went down.

Future Redbirds

by erik on Jul 18, 2007 7:51 PM EDT reply actions

To Shudder...

Yipes.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 7:54 PM EDT up reply actions

nice work at fungoes today

liam

Future Redbirds

by erik on Jul 18, 2007 7:57 PM EDT up reply actions

Thanks

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 8:00 PM EDT up reply actions

Hear! Hear!

by Don Zero on Jul 18, 2007 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions

Was that really...

being contemplated? I thought it was Reyes and a lesser prospect...

Is it unreasonable to think that if Willis continues to decline that he might be non-tendered? He's in line for what, $8-$10 million in 2008? I suppose the Marlins could find someone willing to take a one-year flier on him, as long as he's not completely broken down...

Ease LaDunketty out gently, thank him profusely, and... Hire Antonetti!!!

by guayzimi on Jul 18, 2007 8:20 PM EDT up reply actions

unreal. nice work Val

dude goes and tells us all to lay off Juan, and Juan goes 2-2 with 3 RBI's. color me impressed.

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 7:55 PM EDT reply actions

Juan has a delicate psyche

Maybe all he really needed was a hug.

Sparks of Dementia Still Demented.

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Jul 18, 2007 7:55 PM EDT up reply actions

Darn, we needed that 7th run

Given Kips ERA

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 7:55 PM EDT reply actions

But

ERA is extrapolated out to 9 IP. So if we take him out after 6 IP, based on his ERA, we should expect him to only have given up 4 (earned) runs! Hooray!

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 7:59 PM EDT up reply actions

Wow, Kip is halfway to a quality start

& 60% of the way to qualifying for a win....
...wait a sec.....

Just went outside to double check and no its not frozen over oustide ( I live in Houston, sometimes mistaken for hell).

Let get some more runs!

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 8:06 PM EDT reply actions

Anybody

Need a car? a truck or van?

by bobeans on Jul 18, 2007 8:11 PM EDT reply actions

Why are we selling cars on VEB??

Or are you giving them away?

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 8:12 PM EDT reply actions

Sorry

I've got the South Florida feed and have to hear the Marooney jingle every time they go to the bullpen.

by bobeans on Jul 18, 2007 8:14 PM EDT up reply actions

I will

echo those posts - Nice work, Val. Juan has gone 3 for 3 tonight.

by cardsgirl95 on Jul 18, 2007 8:13 PM EDT reply actions

Darn-part two-Those insurance runs are getting

hard to come by. Ludwick and Molina have identical lines 0-3, 1K each and 1 GIDP each.

Keep it up Kip....

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 8:15 PM EDT reply actions

Is it just me?

Or does it look like Cabrera ate Prince Fielder during his pre-game meal?

by player2bnamedl8r on Jul 18, 2007 8:18 PM EDT reply actions

Well

I'm glad he did - made a softer landing spot for Ryan as he tumbled.

by cardsgirl95 on Jul 18, 2007 8:23 PM EDT up reply actions

If only he had landed on him

instead of tripping over his rotundity.

by player2bnamedl8r on Jul 18, 2007 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions

Holy Cow...

Great awareness, Brendan.

Now don't be hurt.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 8:20 PM EDT reply actions

There's your hussle

by bobeans on Jul 18, 2007 8:20 PM EDT reply actions

Worldwide Peace

must be next, now that Kips ERA is under 6.0 (now 5.99!)

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 8:24 PM EDT reply actions

are we being punked?

I'm looking at the box and listening on gameday. Did Ashton Kutcher have something to do with the game? It's un-Kip like.

Redbirds Fun
2006 WS for JB and DK57 RIP: Josh Hancock

by cardsfan84 on Jul 18, 2007 8:26 PM EDT reply actions

He did walk the pitcher...

...earlier in the game....so, you see, there are still traces of Kip, if you just look hard enough.

by cardsfaninmass on Jul 18, 2007 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions

Nice snag, Boog

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 8:32 PM EDT reply actions

Brendan Ryan is our best defensive IF

when Scott isn't here.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 8:37 PM EDT reply actions

Is gameday working for you?

Mine shows us up 6-0 after 5 with Kip wells pitching.

Maybe Quantum physics has moved me to an alternate universe wher ethe 2006 Cardinals meet the preseason expectations?

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 8:38 PM EDT reply actions

re gameday

Mine has Mel Brooks pitching, no wait, that's the DVD player...

Redbirds Fun
2006 WS for JB and DK57 RIP: Josh Hancock

by cardsfan84 on Jul 18, 2007 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions

so how many more starts

is this zero-strikeout performance earning the kipper?

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 8:38 PM EDT reply actions

Now

a two K performance.

by cardsgirl95 on Jul 18, 2007 8:58 PM EDT up reply actions

looks like pitching to contact

works for the kipper...

Panic!!!

by SleepyCA on Jul 18, 2007 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions

I fully expect for tomorrow

to wake up and find a post telling everyone to lay off Maroth, and that he's given us everything we've asked of him, etc. etc. etc. Maybe even one for Kennedy, if he's playing.

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 8:41 PM EDT reply actions

Thats the strategy, walk So to get to AP!

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 8:42 PM EDT reply actions

dear mr. pinto

i do not appreciate that, of your first 20 pitches, 16 were strikes.

if you will notice, neither of the other pitchers in this game is at even a 2:1 strike-to-ball ratio. you are the only one who seems to be having trouble playing nice.

please adjust your attitude for the remainder of your outing.

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 8:42 PM EDT reply actions

walking taguchi in front of pujols

was a good start. thank you.

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 8:42 PM EDT up reply actions

Nay

Walking Taguchi ON FOUR PITCHES in front of Albert. The Mang may not come through here, but I hope he whacks one to Orlando just to spite the guy.

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 18, 2007 8:45 PM EDT up reply actions

but not good enough

strikeout for albert

Redbirds Fun
2006 WS for JB and DK57 RIP: Josh Hancock

by cardsfan84 on Jul 18, 2007 8:45 PM EDT up reply actions

audio...

where's mike today? i just realized he wasn't on. is rooney with horton?

Redbirds Fun
2006 WS for JB and DK57 RIP: Josh Hancock

by cardsfan84 on Jul 18, 2007 8:47 PM EDT reply actions

good lord, instant breakfast

3-3 with a walk. his season ops is sniffing .800. quick, everyone lay off everyone!

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 8:47 PM EDT reply actions

Enc is dogging it again refusing to even swing

in that AB

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 8:47 PM EDT reply actions

pete rose ran to first on BBs

we'll never call him encarneahustle

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 8:49 PM EDT up reply actions

I know it's just one game...

...but Juan's line of 3-3 with a 2B, a BB, and 3 RBI contrasts nicely with Ludwick's Rolen-esque 0-4 w/ 2 K's, GIDP and 7 LOB. I still like Ludwick, but I feel slightly vindicated for wasting a half-hour today trying to defend the value Juan's reliable league-average-ness.

by willievinceterry on Jul 18, 2007 8:54 PM EDT reply actions

OK, who's wearing KIPPY's uni?

this the NOT the KIPPY we've all come to know and love. who is this guy?

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 9:08 PM EDT reply actions

seriously

i'm staring at mlbtv with my jaw dropped. what is going ON?

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 9:09 PM EDT up reply actions

Yeah!

And Johan Santana STINKS!

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions

Johan can be my starting pitcher

any day of the week.....

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 9:20 PM EDT up reply actions

well, i assume

he'd be pretty tired by the fourth or fifth day. might need to be kept to a pretty strict pitch count. ;)

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 9:24 PM EDT up reply actions

Wow, Kip's ERA down .45 runs tonight.

I guess it's a reflection of how early he's been knoced out all year that 7 innings make that much difference.

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 9:14 PM EDT reply actions

Willis up .32!

Strange days.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 9:22 PM EDT up reply actions

OHH

Juan was ROBBED!

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 9:22 PM EDT reply actions

wow, no kidding

no shame in that out by jenc. he should be 4-4.

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 9:23 PM EDT up reply actions

Darn-Part Three- That 7th insurance run

is impossible to get tonight.

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 9:23 PM EDT reply actions

If Juan

would just take a full swing--that ball's gone.

by bobeans on Jul 18, 2007 9:23 PM EDT reply actions

Damn you Juan,

how dare you make that guy jump and bounce off the wall. You should be benched for not hitting a home run...

"It's always about money; anyone who says it's not is lying."- Gene Simmons

by cardsrul on Jul 18, 2007 9:24 PM EDT reply actions

Just getting in

I see we haven't given up a run all afternoon. Was Kip scratched from the lineup card?

The St Louis Cardinals- 11 time World Champs!

by Zubin on Jul 18, 2007 9:24 PM EDT reply actions

Just on a personal level, I'm glad

Mr. Wells pitched a good game. Sometimes we forget these guys are human beings, and especially for a pitcher, they are so exposed when they fail. And they get 5 days to hear about it.

by jillsinmo on Jul 18, 2007 9:25 PM EDT reply actions

Good point

Also nice to see him on the top performers list at ESPN:

http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/scoreboard?date=20070718

He started the season like this with that second game of his against the Astros.

by willievinceterry on Jul 18, 2007 9:37 PM EDT up reply actions

Well's

stuff is getting nastier as this game progresses.

by bobeans on Jul 18, 2007 9:25 PM EDT reply actions

And so I spell his name wrong

by bobeans on Jul 18, 2007 9:26 PM EDT up reply actions

Well

Well, Wells' name can be difficult to spell well. Well, alls well that ends well especially when Wells ends well.

The St Louis Cardinals- 11 time World Champs!

by Zubin on Jul 18, 2007 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions

What the Well are you talking about?

by BTown Birds fan on Jul 18, 2007 9:31 PM EDT up reply actions

and if it were well

when 'tis done, 'twere well it were done quickly.

All hail the kipper; he shalt be king hereafter.

by CurtFlood on Jul 18, 2007 10:45 PM EDT up reply actions

Yippi Skippy for KIPPY

what?

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 11:35 PM EDT up reply actions

Good lord...

who is this pitching and what did he do with the real Kip Wells?

by craig3410 on Jul 18, 2007 9:33 PM EDT reply actions

wow

Is Kip pitching a CG tonight?

Redbirds Fun
2006 WS for JB and DK57 RIP: Josh Hancock

by cardsfan84 on Jul 18, 2007 9:34 PM EDT reply actions

Perfect night for Ludwick continues

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 9:35 PM EDT reply actions

KIPPY, Ryan & Juan brought the heat today

big props to all three. if the Cards hold on for the win, give each of them a game ball. Ryan's been Rolenlike at 3rd tonight. dont know where this start from KIPPY came from, but it's what we've all expected out of him all season long. keep it up KIPPY. and Val did Juan a big favor by getting most of us off his back.

great job all around.

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 9:35 PM EDT reply actions

Perfect night for Yadi Continues

He and Ludwick are twinsies today 0-5 , 3k each and a GIDP each

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 9:37 PM EDT reply actions

Boxscore not showing a GIDP for Luddy

But it is amazing we could score 6 runs with a skidmark in the lineup like that.

by Keep your hands off on Jul 18, 2007 9:43 PM EDT up reply actions

he hit a line drive off the pitcher

got thrown out at first, and then albert decided to run home and got thrown out by 30 feet.

Panic!!!

by SleepyCA on Jul 18, 2007 11:58 PM EDT up reply actions

That's 13 K's

Guess we decided after 2 to save some runs for the Braves.

by bobeans on Jul 18, 2007 9:38 PM EDT reply actions

A tip of the hat

to Kip Wells who finish today with 8 IP (103 pitches, 64 strikes), 2 H, 0 R, 2 B, 4 K, and a 0.00 ERA to lower his ERA to 5.75

Redbirds Fun
2006 WS for JB and DK57 RIP: Josh Hancock

by cardsfan84 on Jul 18, 2007 9:41 PM EDT reply actions

Ludwick DP was the end of the second inning

check the play by paly on gameday, not sure why teh boxscore doesn't have it. Maybe he's not blamed because AP was out at home after the out at first, so it was not a force?

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 9:46 PM EDT reply actions

don't think that's actually a GIDP

I believe in the Sports Guy rule. Any "complaining" in this post is actually happy, cheerful "constructive criticism."

by nycbirdo on Jul 18, 2007 9:46 PM EDT up reply actions

I say we give him credit for a GIDP to keep the

symmetry with Yadi intact ;-)

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 9:48 PM EDT reply actions

Hope tryo can presere the shutout

The St. Louis Judies (they have no Punch)

by Podlol on Jul 18, 2007 9:49 PM EDT reply actions

It would suck for Wells

If we lost the game now.

The St Louis Cardinals- 11 time World Champs!

by Zubin on Jul 18, 2007 9:50 PM EDT reply actions

That's a winner

Kudos to Wells. Looks like Troy has been taking lessons from Izzy on how to make things exciting.

The St Louis Cardinals- 11 time World Champs!

by Zubin on Jul 18, 2007 9:51 PM EDT reply actions

whew

if we'd blown that lead, wells would have been on suicide watch.

by willievinceterry on Jul 18, 2007 9:51 PM EDT reply actions

And That's A Winner!!

nice job KIPPY, Juan & Ryan. game balls all around.

great game gents. now do the same in the ATL.

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 9:52 PM EDT reply actions

That's a winner!

Good game all around, boys.

Congrats to Kip on the excellent start and Ryan for stepping up and playing a solid hot corner.

by liam on Jul 18, 2007 9:52 PM EDT reply actions

that's a winner!

Redbirds Fun
2006 WS for JB and DK57 RIP: Josh Hancock

by cardsfan84 on Jul 18, 2007 9:52 PM EDT reply actions

Great game

by the Kipper! And to think I had so little hope this morning. That's a series win, folks! Kip looked ticked off at some points tonight, I wonder if someone messed with the stuff in his locker or something (like I suggested)?

by cardsgirl95 on Jul 18, 2007 9:55 PM EDT reply actions

He wasn't getting the calls

he could have easily had 8 ks tonight, but had 4 strike 3s called ball 3.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 10:02 PM EDT up reply actions

True

That would tick me off too.

by cardsgirl95 on Jul 18, 2007 10:13 PM EDT up reply actions

I don't believe what I just saw!

Kip Wells

IP H ER W K
8 2 0 2 4

I have to give credit where credit is due. Nice game Kip!

by jdubya on Jul 18, 2007 9:59 PM EDT reply actions

more good news

5-3 DBacks in the top of the 8th in Milwaukee. come on DBacks!

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 10:39 PM EDT reply actions

The thing that I find most interesting about the

start is that even ignoring the results (because results based analysis isn't a good predictor) we can see that this wasn't a mirage of the Marlin's ballpark. Gameday shows the flyouts (of which there were 5 were routine flyouts that were not hit hard. Against that Wells had 15 groundouts. The 4:2 K:BB ratio is fine with just 2 hits allowed.

Whatever Wells was doing (and I didn't watch the game so I don't know) was what needs to happen moving foward. This was a legitimately dominant start and if he can repeat these peripheral factors, he'll continue to have success.

Future Redbirds

by azruavatar on Jul 18, 2007 10:49 PM EDT reply actions

With the caveat that ...

... I am by no means an expert on such things, the Marlins hitters seemed off-balance, as if they didn't know what to hit next. Perhaps Wells was mixing his pitches and his locations well? Is the preceding sentence such an obvious "insight" as to be worthless?

my web log

by matty fred on Jul 18, 2007 11:23 PM EDT up reply actions

Rally in Memphis

Bases loaded, no outs. 5-1 lead for RedHawks.

Mather hits into a 6-4-3 DP. That was after the pitcher threw 9 out of 10 pitches for balls.

5-2 now, 2 outs, runner at 3rd.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 10:49 PM EDT reply actions

Over now.

They coughed up a great chance for a comeback there. Almost as inept as the big league club.

Ankiel, after going 0-3 with a BB yesterday, goes 2-4.

Interested in pre-1990 Cardinals games on tape

by Hardcore Legend on Jul 18, 2007 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions

sweet

Brew Crew finally loses at home.

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 18, 2007 11:19 PM EDT reply actions

Valverde

strikes out the side as the D-backs finish off the Brewers, 5-2.

by cardsgirl95 on Jul 18, 2007 11:22 PM EDT reply actions

Kip Wells

Game Score = 80

Awesome dude. Keep (Kip?) it up!

"Tyler's gonna bust a nut on some babies tonight!" - Tyler Johnson (as told by Alex Fritz)

by Mr Redbird on Jul 19, 2007 12:50 AM EDT reply actions

XM Trivia

had to listen to the fish announcers and they did Gold glove catchers name the two I know one was matheny, who was the other? i didnt hear the answer....i had some good guesses but wanted a answer

07 Cards more drama than a daytime soap

by punchinjudy on Jul 19, 2007 12:56 AM EDT reply actions

Kip

Kip had a good start, but i was thinking with his good relief he reminded me of Eldred, maybe the cards could keep him in that role for next year if he continues to be soso...i really liked him outta the pen.

07 Cards more drama than a daytime soap

by punchinjudy on Jul 19, 2007 12:57 AM EDT reply actions

I have to admit

After seeing the lineups, I figured the score would be something like 6-0. I just figured it would be the other way around...

So was this an anomaly by Mr. Wells? Or a glimpse of what LaDuncan claim to have seen in him all along? The inconsistency is rather maddening...

There are 10 types of people in the world. Those who understand binary, and those who don't.

by Mr Clean on Jul 19, 2007 2:23 AM EDT reply actions

Spent a night downtown--got the game results via t

glad that everyone was happy with my morning post today. It's vindicating to have a player prove your point with an incredible game. It feels a lot better han my Izzy post did last year.

by Valatan on Jul 19, 2007 3:09 AM EDT reply actions

gotta give you props Val

now please do one for later today about the starting rotation, AK, and how Jimmy will be Jimmy from 04 if Tony ever lets him play again.

you know what they say, never mess with a winning streak. and right now Val, your on a pretty good one.

I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Jul 19, 2007 3:36 AM EDT up reply actions

I thought it was kind of funny

That even the WWL hates Encarnacion. He gets 3 hits and 3 RBI, and the only people that pop up on ESPN's bottom line are Kip (well deserved), Albert, and Taguchi. Why you gotta be a hater?!?

Everywhere is within walking distance if you have the time.

by Solanus on Jul 19, 2007 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions