I'll take "Loss Musings" for $126M, Alex.
by azruavatar on Apr 11, 2008 8:00 AM EDT
178 comments
The Giants did what bad teams do in order to win: capitalize on every mistake your opposition makes. I missed the first 4 innings so I can't comment on those in particular but if they were anything like the last 5, I'm considering myself (and my blood pressure) lucky. Adam Wainwright pitched a good not great game despite what the box score says. Heading into the 7th he had a quality start that was ruined by a series of well hit and well placed gappers. Every pitch he left up, the Giants hit to the wall. Even so, he only allowed 8 hits in 7 innings and struck out 6 batters. I'm more pleased with the things I saw him do correctly last night (groundouts, getting ahead in counts, strikeouts and no walks) than the things that went wrong (hits strung together).
I only caught Chris Duncan's last at bat but what I saw really concerned me. Take a look at the Gameday results.
Duncan saw one fastball in the series and, while it didn't have great location, it was around the knees and inside, which he fouled off. Kevin Correia really busted Duncan with that slider inside on his hands and Chris just couldn't lay off the pitch. Now that's not to entirely slam Chris as the entire Cardinals lineup was struggling against the righty. The first two at bats, from their appearance on Gameday, seem like Duncan swung at good pitches with poor results. That's just unlucky. He got beat in the 6th, however, and beat badly by that slider. Expect more breaking stuff to Duncan low and inside during this series.
Ron Villone, I was just beginning to warm up to you as a concept (i.e. find lefty specialists of the scrap heap) and then you have to go and screw me over in practice. In all seriousness though, Villone was out of his element. Tony put him up against right handed batters because the Cardinals were down by 4 and he was reluctant to sacrifice any more arms from his oft used bullpen. That's a perfectly reasonable, forward thinking thing to do. Villone retired Rowand on a nice pitch but then struggled against Winn and Molina. (Aside, how in the name of slow moving objects was Bengie Molina's hit off the base of the wall a single??? And we thought our Molina was slow.) Throwing the ball away into the "bullpen" was ill-advised and led to that 5th run but greater tragedies have occurred in the history of man.
This last bit doesn't directly relate to last night's game but to a conversation between Dan and Al regarding Brendan Ryan. There was talk of Brendan Ryan heading to extended Spring Training in order to get some work in before returning to the big league club; an eminently reasonable course of action in that it provides Ryan with the chance to get up to game speed, if you will. What would not be an eminently reasonable course of action, and what Dan and Al blithely argued for, was that Brendan Ryan should have to earn his way back on to the roster. What a pile of horses--t.
Because Rico Washington's cup of coffee has been so successful? Because the team is so enamored of Miles being the backup SS? Because he didn't earn his way on the team last year and this Spring Training hitting .278/.366/.389? At what point do we stop worrying about whether these young players have a sense of entitlement and start worrying about whether we have the best 25 players on the roster? Now I should note that Dan and Al do not speak for the club in an official capacity per se, but they tend to vocalize the inner musings of the club from time to time. Get well soon, Brendan; I for one, would like to see what your speed and defense could do for the team on a semi-regular basis.
It's a long season and you hate to see the Cardinals drop games to teams like the Giants but it's a long season. With the Cardinals facing Barry Zito tonight, we can hope that the bats waken a bit and the scoreboard lights up in our favor. If not, I suggest typing "$126M" at SBN's Giant's blog, McCovey Chronicles. Not to stir trouble but simply as a cathartic, soothing release. If that doesn't work, drink the hard stuff and curse at your TV because we better hammer the bloody ball tonight.
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"We left our bats in Texas. American Airlines must have lost em."
So the text read from my good friend and fellow Cardinal diehard. I missed the game but there isn't a whole lot in the box score to make me upset about this fact. Losing the opener to San Fran is rough, especially with Pineiro getting his first start back on Sunday in the series finale. If we hope to be a legitimate threat to the Brewers, Cubs, and (gulp) Dusy Baker-manager Red Stockings, we need to be taking three out of four from the Giants.
Hombres verdaderos slide hard.
by bgh on Apr 11, 2008 8:15 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully
American Airlines will have found the lost bats and returned them by tonight's game. :)
by cardsgirl95 on Apr 11, 2008 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like your comments about Brendan Ryan ...
we need his bat immensely ... the sooner we get it the better ... Kennedy is heading towards the Mendoza line and doesn't seem to have any zip in his bat ... perhaps Roberts from the Orioles is who we should be going after with this much touted May/June trade talk we keep hearing about ... but for now, Ryan would really help ...
So far, Duncan has been a drain on the team ... His .188 slugging percentage sucks ... IMHO, if he can't hit 4th or 5th with power, I don't see how he contributes to the club ... and so far this year, he's not producing enough of anything to comfortably slip into either of those slots ... he's not doing anything for us in the two hole ... I like Duncan, and we could really use his potential 25HR and 70 RBI, but if he doesn't start showing some tendancy to begin achieving those numbers, then I hope he is part of any trade talks that happen in May ...
As far as last night ... we all need to remember how tough it is to win on the road ... They looked like they had jet lag or something ... Let's hope for better things tonight with Barton and hopefully Ludwick in the lineup ...
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 9:25 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Trading Duncan
might be a tough job for Mo even if he wanted to trade Duncan. Chris looks just awful at the plate going back to last year, injury or not. Chris is quickly becoming one of those players that has a surge of HRs when they get into the big leagues, but once pitchers figure them out, they are done. Anybody remember Kevin Mass of the Yankees from the early 90's...or how about Joe Charboneau from the Indians back in the early 80's. If Chris doesn't get to producing he will be lucky to even be in the majors this time next year. But I guess what Chris has that Kevin and Joe didn't is his father as a coach and a manager that is loyal to the father.
by KYCards on Apr 11, 2008 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's a scary thought
I hadn't thought of that, but now that you mention it, I'm worried. I tend to see dips in production in terms of slumps. But if this is a case where Chris just can't recover his past production, that's bad news.
As an aside, though, it seems like we (and I include myself in this criticism) always think about trading players when they are at their lowest production. If Duncan doesn't increase his production by June, we aren't going to get much for him in a trade. If his numbers jump back up, we're going to be clamoring for him to be our everyday left outfielder.
by blehmann on Apr 11, 2008 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wish they would get Mitchell Paige back
or some other hitting coach to work with Chris and hopefully get him back on track. We have a few other guys that could maybe use a different hitting coach...(cough)..Kennedy.
Hal McRae just doesn't seem to be the guy I'm afraid.
by KYCards on Apr 11, 2008 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There has been
constant trade proposals outlined on VEB since last October of trade packages built around Chris Duncan and a good many to the Giants because of his so called good fit with them. If the Cards had any idea to showcase Duncan to the Giants in this series, so far it hasn't worked defensively or offensively. He looked terrible on several plays early in the game on throws back to the infield. The Giant announcers chewed him up pretty good on his base running also. To sum it up. Duncan's trade value is sinking fast.
by ridgesee on Apr 11, 2008 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The defense may not be a concern
as far as the Giants go. If they got him from us, they'd make him a 1B. The baserunning and poor ABs, on the other hand...
Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans
by Mr Redbird on Apr 11, 2008 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Joe Charboneau was the real deal
FWIW, Joe Charboneau was the Indians Albert Pujols. A wild kid who bit the bottle caps off of beer bottles, and so on. One day he tried to do 1000 sit-ups on a bet, and slipped a disk in his back. Had surgery and was never the same. A real shame because he was a lot like Albert, had both power and a high average.
by O'Fallon Park on Apr 11, 2008 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Duncan's trade value
would seem to be very low at this point. I can't imagine anyone acquiring him as more than the lefty half of a first base platoon, and that's not the kind of player that teams shell out legit prospects for. And I think most who post these dream trade deals must know that as well, or why would Duncan always be the chip that will supposedly land us the blue chip prospect?
I'll see your Mass and Charboneau and throw out a former Card he's beginning to remind me of: Eduardo Perez.
by bgodar on Apr 11, 2008 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
16 ABs
16 ABs a season does not make. Plus, his OBP is .362, which would have placed him in the top 10 for No. 2 slot OBP last season and would tie him for #7 in all of MLB this very, very young season for No. 2 OBP. What's more, it's 13 points higher than the team's OBP from the No. 2 slot so far this very, very young season. In point of fact, Duncan has outperformed Ankiel in OBP, tied Ankiel in AVG, while trailing him in Slugging by a long, long ways. There's a lot left to play and things will even out.
Hombres verdaderos slide hard.
by bgh on Apr 11, 2008 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You sound like Yoda...
"16 ABs a season does not make."
LOL
"Get your hands off me you damn dirty ape!" -RIP Charlton Heston
by Calhoun on Apr 11, 2008 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
$126 Million
Does everyone reading this blog know the meaning of $126 million? I don't. Could it be our payroll, or the Giants payroll, or Zito's contract? I wouldn't know unless I did some research, and I read this blog because I'm too lazy to do my own research. :)
by blehmann on Apr 11, 2008 9:46 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I like to think...
... most Cards fans are above that type of trolling. And at least Zito is actually pitching - we have a pretty high-priced (in terms of what it took to get him) former A who hasn't done a whole lot for us since we traded Danny Haren, Kiko Calero, and Daric Barton for him.
by birdjam on Apr 11, 2008 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think
that Az is really recommending trolling.
by cardsgirl95 on Apr 11, 2008 10:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think I can speak for most Giant's fans when I saw we'd much rather have Zito not pitch.
Make me proud again Hen
by AndYourBirdCanSing on Apr 11, 2008 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And please, by all means, mock his contract, it's a terrible one and we do it too.
by paboperfecto on Apr 11, 2008 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was wondering why
Az was talking to me in the title, then I remembered that damn mustachioed Canadian.
Well who the hell can see forever?
by Alxfritz on Apr 11, 2008 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So you miss
Izturis "trying" to streatch a double into a triple and getting thrown out at third? Really. It was the second out. So I wouldn't have a beef about it. Expect that he slowed down before getting to second.
Skippy followed it up with a hit up the middle that would have scored him too.
But yeah. It happens. You hate to lose to a bad team with your ace on the mound. But the Cardinals looked a little flat. Wainwright strung a few hits together. A lot of thier balls found the gap in outfield. It's why we play 162 of these right?
by Evilfrog on Apr 11, 2008 9:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That was my feeling as well.
I don't like to waste a Wainwright start. But, it happens. So we try to get them tonight.
by cardsgirl95 on Apr 11, 2008 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i dont think he slowed down enough...
to affect the outcome of the play...he was out by 30 feet...did Oquendo wave him on?
"Back in the day when I played, a pitcher had 3 pitches: a fastball, a curveball, a slider, a changeup and a good sinker pitch." - Mike Shannon
by nomar34 on Apr 11, 2008 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that question was posed
and the replay shows that izturis definitely looked up at oquendo as he rounded 2nd... but i didn't see a shot of oquendo. i was half awake, so anyone see if cesar was given the 'stop' sign?
I'd rather my sister be a prostitute than my brother a Cub fan.
by _pistol_ on Apr 11, 2008 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oquendo was waving him on,
but I still blame Izturis for slowing down. There's a third base coach for a reason - use him. I doubt he would have made it regardless, but at least it would have been a close play.
by outraged on Apr 11, 2008 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is on Oquendo
Slowed down or full speed, he would have been out. Oquendo made the mistake. That said, game over... let's move on.
by OKCARDSFAN_411 on Apr 11, 2008 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oquendo can get a little daring
Sometimes he sends people when they have no chance of advancing the extra base safely.
Hombres verdaderos slide hard.
by bgh on Apr 11, 2008 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He did that early last year
Seems like he is more aggresive (optimistic?) in his coaching early in the year. Is he testing the players or pushing luck? Guess he'll be a very aggresive manager someday.
by OKCARDSFAN_411 on Apr 11, 2008 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I dont really care..
If it was his fault or not. It was frustrating and a sign of how bad we played yesturday. If I could sum up the game in one play. That would be it. Im not trying to rag on him.
by Evilfrog on Apr 11, 2008 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
San Francisco
worse team in NL, you throw your ace, they throw Joe Blow with a .600 ERA. He shuts you down. That rattle your ace. Go figure. Is that just baseball or is 2007 just fixin to happen?
by ridgesee on Apr 11, 2008 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey a .6 ERA is nothing to scoff at!
Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans
by Mr Redbird on Apr 11, 2008 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
my stupid mistake
move decimal point one space right please ,,,also change "That" to "They" don't see to good for the first four hours of the day.
by ridgesee on Apr 11, 2008 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just baseball
Strange things like this happen every day across the League. We have a stronger lineup than in 2007. Glaus is an upgrade over Rolen and Ankiel over Edmonds in terms of offensive production. Our outfield defense will also be improved (not that it would take much) from 2007. In addition, it looks like our rotation will be moving in the opposite direction of 2008: rather than attrition via injury, we may have a cavalry on the hill which will strengthen the rotation and bullpen by supplanting Das WunderBrad and Wellemeyer with Pineiro and Clement or Mulder, which will bolster the 'pen and the rotation at the same time. Plus, Rasmus is waiting in the wings and Izturis' horrendous offensive performance may force TLR's hand with Ryan.
Hombres verdaderos slide hard.
by bgh on Apr 11, 2008 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1 ...
Great post ...
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Correction
I meant "opposite direction of 2007"
Hombres verdaderos slide hard.
by bgh on Apr 11, 2008 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
All you say is true BGH
I fell better now
by ridgesee on Apr 11, 2008 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Still can't type though
feel, not fell
by ridgesee on Apr 11, 2008 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Perpetuating the misperception that Izturis isn't contributing real value
After 10 games of the regular season, Izturis has an OBP of .394, better than every other player on the team with more than 12 AB's, besides Pujols.
by CardsWin on Apr 11, 2008 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right now
It is early at this point but Adam Kennedy looks to be really struggling. He has absolutely zero pop, can't seem to hit high pitches due to his loopy swing, and contines to roll over weakly or pop out weakly.
I would like to see Izturis at SS and Ryan at 2B.
by ICbirdfan on Apr 11, 2008 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes
Honestly, Adam looks like toast. And I'm trying not to just go off 10 games this year. His bat has zero explosiveness. He just looks like he got old really quickly. Izturis has more excitement in his game than Kennedy and that's saying something.
SUBURBS: Where Americans cut down trees and then name streets after them.
by beanocook on Apr 11, 2008 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kennedy
His whole approach is bad. He was just hacking last night, zero effort to work the count. You can tell his is pressing because he is affraid to fall behind in the count.
It is sad when Izturis is a much better option than Kennedy. I know it's early and Izturis could regress to what he is and Kennedy could improve but from what I have seen from Adam, he will be lucky to get and extra base hit.
by ICbirdfan on Apr 11, 2008 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hoff
Could Hoffpauer be the 'impact bat' that Mo refers to? He has had an insane OBP of late, and would be great in the leadoff position, allowing skip/barton to move to the two hole, and ankiel to follow pujols against both left and right-handed pitching.
I realize, that a low SLG, high OPB second basemen isn't normally considered impact. However, when talking about finding an impact bat - who do you replace - not Molina (defense - right or wrong he isn't going anywhere), Pujols, Glaus, Ank, plenty of corner outfielders already - it almost has to be middle infield.
by cdb on Apr 11, 2008 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ryan at 2B as a platoon would be an upgrade
I'd be all for Ryan in a platoon with Kennedy. Ryan hits much better than Kennedy vs. LHP. Kennedy hits better vs. RHP, if I recall correctly. Ryan would add speed and he'd be just as good defensively.
by CardsWin on Apr 11, 2008 11:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're right about Izturis ...
Of course, he still flirts with Mendoza ... currently at .231 .. but of course a couple of bad games and he's there again ... but he is drawing walks too to get his OBP up ... that's good ... and his defense has been pretty solid ... I for one am off his back ... he's doing really all you can expect of someone of his abilities ... as long as he stays low in the order, preferably #9, I'm fine with him ... sure wish we could Edgar back, though ... however, as a guy who was all over Izturis during ST, I admit his defense and potential ability to hit .250 seems like a good call by Tony and rest of Mgmt ... I try not to bad-mouth him anymore ...
Adam, as I stated above in an earlier post, is soft ... I would love to see Ryan take his place ... I would also like to have Roberts (Orioles) replace him ...
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cesar Izturis is an upgrade at SS compared with 2006 and 2007
Based not just on this season's first 10 games but on how Izturis performed in almost 900 AB's the last time he was healthy and playing full time, we can reasonably expect him to have an OBP and SLG close to what Eckstein had while he was with the Cards, but with much better defense. Eckstein's OPS+ in his last two years with StL was 81 (World Series MVP) and 93. Izturis' OPS+ in his last full season when he was healthy (2004) was 88. At this very early point in the season Eckstein's OPS+ in Toronto is 48. Izturis' OPS+ so far is 92.
Cesar is an upgrade in SS value added, over last year and the year before, at about two thirds the cost.
by CardsWin on Apr 11, 2008 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great post ...
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
iz2 vs. eck
that lil nugget is scary
"Textbooks are Soviet propaganda" - Rev. Jerry Falwell
by elirock83 on Apr 11, 2008 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am really excited about Izturis
His defense has been great! Last year I was so sick of seeing Albert pick 10 balls out of the dirt every game. This year Izturis can throw rockets from the hole! Not to mention he can reach balls that Eckstein could only dream about...
"Get your hands off me you damn dirty ape!" -RIP Charlton Heston
by Calhoun on Apr 11, 2008 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Conversely
He can't seem to cover 2nd base properly and seems confused on the basepaths. Although, in fairness, that could be because he has spent so little time on them in his career.
Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS
by Hardcore Legend on Apr 11, 2008 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's good that they are doing the right thing with Ryan
and getting some work in before he returns. I'm a strong believer in having a guy prove he's healthy and back in form before returning to the big league club. I understand that sometimes the circumstances won't allow for it though. Anyone else somewhat concerned that Piniero only made one start? He only pitched 3 innings in spring training. The Mulder situation concerns me a lot more though. Mo is already talking about cutting his rehab short.
by outraged on Apr 11, 2008 10:14 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Modus Operandi
Mulder had no business taking a Big League mound last year. The Cards should be embarassed by what they did to him. The handling of Rolen also comes to mind. And, yes, Pineiro scares me. Mo explicitly states that the goal is have Pineiro able to throw 100 pitches. He throws 76 in a rehab start and gets shipped up to the Big Club for Sunday. Why the rush?
Hombres verdaderos slide hard.
by bgh on Apr 11, 2008 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
radio
listened to the second half of the game on the radio last night. in the 7th, i flipped over to the giants broadcast on xm radio... Dave Fleming (sp?) and Jon Miller. Holy crap. Those guys are excellent. If you have access to satellite radio, or mlb radio, I highly recommend giving them listen.
I'd rather my sister be a prostitute than my brother a Cub fan.
by _pistol_ on Apr 11, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Completely off topic ... but speaking of radio ...
I've been away from St. Louis for awhile ... I'm starting to listen to 1380 on-line a lot via there live feed ... what do you all think is the best sports radio (predominantly for Cards coverage) in STL right now? I like 1380, but wondered if something better is available ... I tried KTRS for awhile, but thought it was pretty lacking ... thanks in advance for any thoughts ...
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great question
Ever since the Cards split with KMOX, it's been difficult to find a station who gives nearly the amount of committed, quality coverage. KFNS is a joke (the morning show has more in common with "The View" than an actual informative sports show), KTRS is coming around (were they the station that carries a show with Mike Claiborne? I moved from the area a year ago, so I don't know), but ouside of that the options are thin.
Don't know about you, but I blame ESPN for being the harbinger of the decline of informative sports coverage.
"Well, folks, this game began as a tiny worm and is blossoming into a large cobra." - Mike "The Moon Man" Shannon
by Tudor's Electric Fan on Apr 11, 2008 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was driving
through a rain storm last night and listening to the game on XM. Flemming and Miller are very good. But around the fourth and fifth innings, Jon Miller had a couple of stories he wanted to tell and he was not about to let the game get in his way. I begged him to get back to the game, but he wouldn't listen. Other than that, it was an excellent broadcast.
by cardsgirl95 on Apr 11, 2008 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jon Miller always has a couple of stories
to tell, I like him though. Who else could keep Joe Morgan employed.
by ridgesee on Apr 11, 2008 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
(let me finish my thought)
that Jon Miller deserves a special award for enduring Joe Morgan every Sunday night all season long.
(I have no idea why the title posted by itself.)
by cardsgirl95 on Apr 11, 2008 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
aaaaaaaaamen
i lose iq points when ever joe speaks
"Textbooks are Soviet propaganda" - Rev. Jerry Falwell
by elirock83 on Apr 11, 2008 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Miller is terrible
I've never heard a baseball announcer who seemed to know so very little about the game of baseball. He is a joke. A line I've never forgotten is "I'd always thought it would be a good idea to change the positions of the baserunners" when a slow guy was on 2nd in front of a speedster on 1st. I prefer Morgan to him, sometimes. Blasphemy, I know, but Miller makes me sick, and Joe at least knows about how to play the game. Not the strategy, but stuff like getting the ball out of your glove before you throw it so the receiving fielder can pick it up, stuff like that.
by Midwestside on Apr 12, 2008 8:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sorry, but did you say Jon Miller was excellent?
Man. That's just scary.
"and there's a high fastball." well, it was low and bounced in the dirt. "this reminds me of a Yankees story."
by sdrone on Apr 11, 2008 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Miller is smooth, I'll give him that,
but his smoothness is for some reason intensely irritating to me. I guess if he would call Morgan on some of his worst bullshit I'd cut him some slack, but he doesn't.
Another thing that drives me nuts is how he uses the word "slugger" all the time, and says it the way my aunt Ethel who knows nothing about baseball would say it. I just find him creepy somehow.
by MdRedbirdFreak on Apr 11, 2008 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, yeah
i'm sure there are folks who don't like him, but i'll stand by my earlier statement. i like listening to the dude on the radio.
I'd rather my sister be a prostitute than my brother a Cub fan.
by _pistol_ on Apr 11, 2008 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are taking your Joe Morgan rage out on Miller
If Miller was with anyone in the non-Tim McCarver category he'd seem infinitely better.
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 1:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
NO everything reminds him of...
Barry Bonds, Barry Bonds, Barry Bonds....................HE NEVER STOPS TALKING ABOUT HIM!
"Get your hands off me you damn dirty ape!" -RIP Charlton Heston
by Calhoun on Apr 11, 2008 4:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jon Miller
Is the most hyped up announcer in the country....and he is CRAP CRAP CRAP!!!!!!! Also Sunday Night Baseball with Miller and Morgan is the most pathetic broadcast on television.......... The only time I enjoyed it was when their mikes went out and they had the hispanic announcers doing the game THAT WAS AWESOME! there is nothing better then hispanic announcers! they ROCK!
"Get your hands off me you damn dirty ape!" -RIP Charlton Heston
by Calhoun on Apr 11, 2008 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'm sort of neutral on miller
but i remember watching that game and it was indeed awesome.
by mattybobo on Apr 11, 2008 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wish more analysts
understood the virtue of shutting their mouths every once in a while. Who is the most minimalistic color guy out there? Give him an Emmy.
by MdRedbirdFreak on Apr 11, 2008 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I still remember
the call on Rolen's HR and thinking it was the greatest HR call I heard in years. I think I even screamed at my television when Miller and Morgan returned.
Maldonado and Baerga > complete silence > Miller and Morgan
"Well, folks, this game began as a tiny worm and is blossoming into a large cobra." - Mike "The Moon Man" Shannon
by Tudor's Electric Fan on Apr 11, 2008 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Years ago
after Sandy Koufax retired, NBC hired him as color commentator on Saturday Baseball. Koufax didn't talk constantly after every play but when he did speak up he brought up things that was happening in the game that the average veiwer (including Me ) would never notice. He would say certain signs were being put on and he would prove to be true. He analized every pitcher and what he was trying to do. Every word from his mouth was good information.
the next year they did not renew his contract...said he didn't talk enough. Replaced him with Tony Kubeck and he would drive you crazy with his constant chatter.
by ridgesee on Apr 11, 2008 8:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Must be a Tribe thing
Steve Stone was/is one of the best analysts I've ever heard.
by Midwestside on Apr 12, 2008 8:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Things
While we are still waiting for Izturis to make it to 3rd base, let's look at a few things.
1. Piniero: What is the rush? Thompson is pitching well and Piniero has not had many innings to get ready for the season. Give him another rehab start or 2.
2. Mulder: Don't rush him. Let him get close to 100% before trotting him out to the majors.
3. Ryan and Reyes: It is obvious that the field management doesn't like these guys, but they ARE part of the best 25.
4. Moz keeps talking about getting an impact hitter. He doesn't usually talk like that unless there is something brewing. However, definition of "impact" may vary. Anybody know of someone good who is available? Or is this a prelude to Rasmus or Mather?
5. The Cards will have to make some roster decisions very soon.
How about handin' me another helpin' of those mashed taters...thank you very much!
by Elvis on Apr 11, 2008 10:25 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Field Management Doesn't Like These Guys?
Just a different perspective on things: Field management (FM) doesn't like it when they make mistakes. (e.g. Ryan not having sunglasses to deal with pop ups). FM wants them to improve.
My concern with the "FM hates Ryan and AR perspective" is that it insinuates that FM is willing to cut off their nose to spite their face. I am not sure that FM is dumb enough to have personal vendettas against them, and destroy valuable assets.
Does FM treat different players differently? Yes. But I think it's a fineline between unadulterated favoritism and the fact that players have different personalities and require different "handling". I am trying to play the devil's advocate given that the VEB concensus is that both have been mishandled.
born Dodger blue, now dyed Cardinals red
by totalloser on Apr 11, 2008 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ryan
I want to see him at 2B asap!!
But I agree nothing pisses a coach off more than a guy being a dumb ass.
Brendan, wear sunglasses when it's sunny or you have a high sky. It's not hard to figure out since you have been playing baseball for 21 years.
Brendan don't miss signs. If you play baseball at the collegiate level or above just miss a few signs and see how happy a coach gets. That got my college coach so mad he wanted to F'ing kill guys for missing signs. It is a mental lapse and it is unacceptable in key situations.
by ICbirdfan on Apr 11, 2008 11:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't care about Ryan at 2B
What I never, ever want to see is Miles at SS.
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 11:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not a Miles apologist
And frankly would rather he not be clogging up a roster spot, but I thought I should note that the Houston announcers were very impressed with Miles' play at SS the other night.
They even noted that he hasn't been very good in the past, but he looked really good that night.
FWIW, probably not much, but there it is.
by OCCardsFan on Apr 11, 2008 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can count me among those...
that thinks Duncan would rather not see ARey succeed. IMO Anthony didn't commit himself to changing his pitching style the way Dunc wanted, and now he is succeeding (small sample) using his old style of pitching...Duncan doesn't want to be wrong.
by cardzfanbub on Apr 11, 2008 11:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
this idea
That guys like LaRussa and Duncan WANT to see players on their team fail is absolutely asinine. Honestly. Whether they "like" them or not is one thing (who knows) but wanting them to fail so it would make them personally happy seems off the wall and childish.
SUBURBS: Where Americans cut down trees and then name streets after them.
by beanocook on Apr 11, 2008 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with you cardzfanbub.
She isn't crazy, she's just not impressed.
by jillsinmo on Apr 11, 2008 5:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Duncan truly believes that Reyes cannot be a successful pitcher without a 2-seamer/sinking fastball, more movement, more groundballs, and fewer 4-seamers. He is probably wrong, at least in regard to Reyes, and is probably stubborn enough to either dismiss Reyes' success or want to get him off the team, but I feel like he does it all out of, what he perceives as, trying to do the best thing for both the team and Anthony Reyes.
by Midwestside on Apr 12, 2008 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Strauss is an idiot
At the end of today's column about Pineiro, he added this sentence:
Disabled shortstop Brendan Ryan played five innings of the game, going 0 for two.
We all agree that Strauss is horrible, but does he really not know the difference between being disabled and injured? Maybe its just me, but I thought it was really odd.
Jimmy steps in to lead off the bottom half of the inning... with nobody on base... It could happen... just not tonight.
by Hollywood15 on Apr 11, 2008 10:28 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Pretty sure he meant diabled, as in on the disabled list.
by SoonerfanTU on Apr 11, 2008 10:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it is mighty scrappy of Brendan to play
SS while in a wheelchair.
Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS
by Hardcore Legend on Apr 11, 2008 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well like Tony pointed out earlier,
motorized wheel chair after all.
I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson AND THAT'S A WINNER!
by gdm426 on Apr 11, 2008 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wainwright was highly praised all night by SF TV announcers
The local cable TV announcers in San Francisco repeatedly praised the performance of Adam Wainwright last night. Mike Krukow, former Giants pitcher, was especially admiring of Wainwright, noting his excellent control of four pitches, saying Wainwright can strike you out with any of those pitches, placing them wherever he wants on any pitch. The announcers also gave very high praise for Wainwright's consistently intelligent game plan. As a San Francisco Bay Area resident (Illinois born and raised) for over 20 years, I can attest that these guys are honest in their assessment of players, good and bad, so it was impressive to hear their view of the Cardinals' current ace.
by CardsWin on Apr 11, 2008 10:44 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
agreed
Those SF TV guys are good and enjoyable, IMO. Really, the difference between Wainwright and Correia last night was the placement of a few balls hit and the timeliness of the hits.
The Giants offense may be awful but they have some really fun, good arms. Correia and Sanchez are promising and Cain and Lincecum we all know about. All of those guys are 25 and under I think (woops, Correia is 27). Anyway, if we split this series I will take it and run.
SUBURBS: Where Americans cut down trees and then name streets after them.
by beanocook on Apr 11, 2008 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree completely
Good young arms, terrible offense.
by cardsgirl95 on Apr 11, 2008 11:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
A split would be good - Beat Zito, squeeze past Cain
Lincecum is very hard to hit!
by CardsWin on Apr 11, 2008 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great scouting report on Lincecum at McCovey Chronicles
One of their readers, xanthan, posted up a very good analysis on Lincecum's stuff, using PitchFx. Brilliant presentation as well.
http://www.baycityball.com/2008/04/08/pitchfx-examining-tim-lincecums-2007-season/
Also, they quoted an interesting tidbit from Baseball America:
Their [minor league] coaches are under strict orders not to tinker with Lincecum’s mechanics.
Would this "no-touch" policy be in line with the Cardinals' new emphasis on "natural mechanics"?
"Attaway to stomp 'em. Stomp the piss out of 'em. Stomp 'em when they're down. Kick 'em and stomp 'em. Attaway to go boys. Pound that old Budweiser into you and go get them tomorrow." -- Joe Schultz
by taiko on Apr 11, 2008 1:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great analysis
Thank you, taiko. This guy looks like a future Cy Young winner! Cain is excellent, too, just taking time to get in the groove so far, it seems. I hope he is still trying to get his mojo back when the Cards face him Saturday. I'll be at that game....
by CardsWin on Apr 11, 2008 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lincecum
I'm glad he decided not to sign with the baby bears!
C'mon you Redbirds, lets prove em' wrong, again!
by yer dog first on Apr 11, 2008 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
They would've cooked him in a nuclear reactor anyway
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
difference was
those few well placed balls and the fact that it took Wainer until the third AB to figure out how to attack SF's lead-off guy (Lewis?).
by ArkansasTravs on Apr 11, 2008 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's the first time I've seen Fred Lewis. He looks like a good, smart, fast player.
Maybe we can have him?
She isn't crazy, she's just not impressed.
by jillsinmo on Apr 11, 2008 5:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He just didn't get away
w/ any mistakes last night. Every ball left up was hit hard. All in all, though, he deserved a better fate. He is really special.
by chuckb on Apr 11, 2008 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He should have been ...
Adam pitched arguably the best game of the season last night ... He went 7IP, faced 28 batters, struck out 7, walked no one, and gave up no HRs ... his FIGS (Fielding Independent Game Score), which calculates pitching performance factoring in only the things a pitcher controls, was 71 ... better than any other Cards pitching performance this season (by the way, Looper's start the night before was the second best, with a FIGS of 67) ... he just ran into some bad luck, by stringing a few of his hits allowed ... it happens ... but Adam was a real bad-arse out there last night ... it was a great performance ... with a little offense, it would have been a great game ...
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone Else Excited About Mulder?
I don't remember success like this during his last rehab assignment--your remember the one where he was unable to lift his arm over his head, yet was pitching anyway? Well, this result is better than any of those:
Mulder allowed one base hit, no walks and struck out four during a scoreless five-inning appearance against Florida Marlins minor-league bats. He is now set to begin a rehab assignment Tuesday with Class A Palm Beach.
Even at single-A, no walks and four strikeouts is good news.
So says, Titus Pullo (formerly The Dude)
by Titus Pullo on Apr 11, 2008 10:57 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
It's definitely good to hear encouraging reports. While it's definitely waaaay too early to say he's going to be back to his old self, I'm definitely a fan of encouraging reports rather than the crap we were hearing about him last year.
by birdo rojo on Apr 11, 2008 10:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'd like to be, but
to quote Great White - once bitten, twice shy.
I'd rather my sister be a prostitute than my brother a Cub fan.
by _pistol_ on Apr 11, 2008 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Excited only about Mulder return
if another X-Files movie is made. But being born in MO-Land, he has to "show me" before I can be "excited" about his return.
by OKCARDSFAN_411 on Apr 11, 2008 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
they are working
On another X-Files movie.
by Evilfrog on Apr 11, 2008 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As it pertains to Mark Mulder, I lay claim to the Fox Mulder perspective
Hombres verdaderos slide hard.
by bgh on Apr 11, 2008 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's the poster:
Mid-July is the release date: http://www.cinematical.com/media/2008/03/xfiles2posteruw0.jpg
Hombres verdaderos slide hard.
by bgh on Apr 11, 2008 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The only numbers that I would be interested in from that start
are his mph.
by azruavatar on Apr 11, 2008 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly
A-ball hitters are total hackers a ML pitcher of any quality should chew it up. Put it this way, it's not a bad sign he's K'ing 4 and walking none but it doesn't mean much.
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 11:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He was hitting 89 last time out
I think velocity will be important in his next start. Hopefully he is starting to touch 91 again. He can be very effective at 91 with his 64 mph curveball.
Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS
by Hardcore Legend on Apr 11, 2008 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hitting 89 or pumping 89?
Hitting 89 can mean he's "sitting 85-87 touching 89" which would be discouraging to me.
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
why would that be discouraging
for his first start of the spring?
Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS
by Hardcore Legend on Apr 11, 2008 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Discouraging isn't the right word
I was hoping to be encouraged haha and that wouldn't do it for me.
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can never be excited about Mulder
I just see his body with the heads of Haren, Barton, and Calero, and want to commit seppuku. I will never get over that trade.
by Midwestside on Apr 12, 2008 8:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lohse
Im excited about Kyle staring again. Granted part of it is because i stole him in the 24th and final round of my fantasy draft, but more becuase im close to hopping on the bandwagon and believing in this kid. another solid outing would do that. of course, every win he gets means more money in the bank for him next year. dollar dollar bills y'all.
I am the only/last Anthony Reyes fan!
by dangpenguins on Apr 11, 2008 11:04 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
yeah, I think this guy is going to be a very important factor. not only was he a good pickup, I think he still has some "upside", and he seems like a gamer
Ankiel is Jesus!
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Apr 11, 2008 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Giants have some momentum right now
If Zeto is feeding off their energy......it could get sticky. Lets not forget who this team has been beating. The Giants were taking some pretty sound at bats last night.....especially compared to the Cards, who apparently swing at anything.
I have to say that I thing Duncan is bad for team chemistry. Ankeil back to number 2 for me.
Westcoastbirdwatcher
by westcoastbirdwatcher on Apr 11, 2008 12:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Plus they're playing with swagger
and grit
and intangibles
"Well, folks, this game began as a tiny worm and is blossoming into a large cobra." - Mike "The Moon Man" Shannon
by Tudor's Electric Fan on Apr 11, 2008 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
grit...
regular, creamy or al dente?
I'd rather my sister be a prostitute than my brother a Cub fan.
by _pistol_ on Apr 11, 2008 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good one ...
a little Joe Pesci humor, there ...
Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...
by Cardinals4Ever on Apr 11, 2008 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Instant grit?
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Out of Left Field" stat of the day
I was checking some stats from last year and saw this number and it floored me.
"Blow-outs (5+ runs) W=25 L=38" 38!
Only the Pirates had a worse winning percentage in the N.L., but only had 52 blow-out games compared to
63 for the Cards (over 1/3 of games). 10 of those blow-outs happened in the first 25 games
with the Cards winning only 2.
No wonder last year was so depressing.
Blow-outs records
2006 Cards 30-23
2005 Cards 31-13
2004 Cards 32-13
2003 Cards 24-20
I gave up after that.
by OKCARDSFAN_411 on Apr 11, 2008 1:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Whoops...Marlins had worst winning percentage
Marlins blow-out record 12-27.
by OKCARDSFAN_411 on Apr 11, 2008 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd be interested to see
how the Cards fare in close games (1 or 2 run differential) throughout the season. It seems that they've been involved in quite a few so far.
"Well, folks, this game began as a tiny worm and is blossoming into a large cobra." - Mike "The Moon Man" Shannon
by Tudor's Electric Fan on Apr 11, 2008 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
To be exact
half of the games so far have been decided by 2 runs or less, 7 by 3 runs or less (5-2 in those games). You've got to like what we've seen thus far.
"Well, folks, this game began as a tiny worm and is blossoming into a large cobra." - Mike "The Moon Man" Shannon
by Tudor's Electric Fan on Apr 11, 2008 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know there was a study that LaRussa is one of the best managers re: pythag
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Last year
it seemed like every other game was a blow-out. Either we were getting blown away or we were blowing the other team out of the water. I see now that my recollection was faulty, it was every third game, not every other game! Seriously, that is why I previously posted that I was encouraged that our losses so far were of the one-run and two-runs variety. Until last night...
by cardsgirl95 on Apr 11, 2008 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wainwright
Anyone catch Wainwrights comments on www.stlcardinals.com about last nights game? The boy is intense:
"The bad ones I threw tonight, I got hit on," Waimwright said. "The only inning that really upset about is the seventh inning. I feel like we tie the game tonight if I don't go out there and do that in the seventh inning, which was completely uncalled-for. I just didn't make good pitches."
www.stlcardinals.com
"The bad ones I threw tonight, I got hit on," Waimwright said. "The only inning that really upset about is the seventh inning. I feel like we tie the game tonight if I don't go out there and do that in the seventh inning, which was completely uncalled-for. I just didn't make good pitches."
www.stlcardinals.com
Im really excited to watch Adam develop in the coming years.
by brindled on Apr 11, 2008 1:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
glad
im gald to see the Wain be so intense. it would worry me if he was like "it happens, we'll get em next time" that is what is going to make him a cy young winner someday.
I am the only/last Anthony Reyes fan!
by dangpenguins on Apr 11, 2008 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
it happens, we'll get em next time
This is about what we Giants' fans get after every Zito start.
by paboperfecto on Apr 11, 2008 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Zito
he does win sometimes, right?
C'mon you Redbirds, lets prove em' wrong, again!
by yer dog first on Apr 11, 2008 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take this year's sample and say no, never.
by paboperfecto on Apr 11, 2008 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
heres
to hope!
C'mon you Redbirds, lets prove em' wrong, again!
by yer dog first on Apr 11, 2008 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Giants fans...
you guys are funny. Plus, no matter how rough this season may be for you guys, think of it this way, Atleast you aren't the Cubs.
...just a bit outside....
by Ankiels Missing Curveball on Apr 11, 2008 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love that quote where he says something like: I'm not worried about waiting for the injured guys to get here, the pitchers should be thinking about dominating
Ankiel is Jesus!
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Apr 11, 2008 4:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thats all good
love to hear stuff like that out of him.
Hardcore said it best during the game last night, Adam should have pulled a Gibby & yelled at the O that he was tired of carrying them.
I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson AND THAT'S A WINNER!
by gdm426 on Apr 11, 2008 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yikes
The Giants as a team are hitting .230 .276 .331. The 2nd worst qualified hitter in the majors was Jason Kendall last year who hit 242 .301 .309.
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That's bad
They should trade for a Left Handed 1B.
I wonder if they would be interested in Duncan?
by Harknights on Apr 11, 2008 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So, not to burst your bubble, but before last night's game that was .220 BA.
by paboperfecto on Apr 11, 2008 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know, that's the yikes that we actually let up a few runs haha
With no evidence to the contrary, Colby Rasmus is clutch
by joker24 on Apr 11, 2008 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Damn that Fred Lewis
...just a bit outside....
by Ankiels Missing Curveball on Apr 11, 2008 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The other Reyes
Anyone see this little tidbit from Rotoworld?
"According to the St. Petersburg Times, Al Reyes was arrested early Friday morning "after falling down, picking a fight and spitting blood at the patrons of a popular Hyde Park night spot."
Reyes may have been out celebrating his 38th birthday, which was Thursday. The newspaper reports that Reyes "fell against a ceramic pot inside the bar" and thought that someone had pushed him, at which point he "began exchanging words" with a patron who eventually "punched Reyes in the face." In a news release, police said that Reyes then "began to spit blood on the people in the area and began to swing his arms about," at which point an officer reportedly twice used a taser to subdue him."
I hope this is an aberration for him, but it sounds like he may have some of the same issues that Speezer is dealing with. I wish him well. Shoot, I wish he was still in our bullpen, too.
by punditmoi on Apr 11, 2008 3:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Was he actually drinking?
Or just spitting blood?
Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS
by Hardcore Legend on Apr 11, 2008 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point
The article never actually says that he'd been drinking... maybe he'd been drinking blood. That's a whole different problem from what I assumed.
My favorite line is that he "began to swing his arms about". Maybe they'll bring him up on charges of unlicensed distribution of a biohazardous substance and aggravated Hokey-Pokeying.
by punditmoi on Apr 11, 2008 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You've been charged with two counts
of "shakin' it all about".
"Well, folks, this game began as a tiny worm and is blossoming into a large cobra." - Mike "The Moon Man" Shannon
by Tudor's Electric Fan on Apr 11, 2008 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
aaron crow
for those interested i believe aaron crow is going for the ncaa division I record of consecutive scoreless innings tonight against texas. im kinda excited cuz im a student here and this is gonna be my first ball game here. should be fun!!
by soccerfreak on Apr 11, 2008 3:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Barton
Think I read Barton is starting tonight against Zito. Will be nice to see the professor back in the lineup.
by lightbulb on Apr 11, 2008 4:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
If so
Over/under is 3AB before he's lifted for a defensive replacement.
"Well, folks, this game began as a tiny worm and is blossoming into a large cobra." - Mike "The Moon Man" Shannon
by Tudor's Electric Fan on Apr 11, 2008 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
3 - 3, with 3 triples?
That'd be neat.
by lightbulb on Apr 11, 2008 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Barton
I was reading the preview for the game over at MLB.com and on the Cards MLB site just a bit ago. I dont know if yall have read Tony's talk about Barton?
I know, I know, small sample size. But, how do sample sizes actually get above being small, if the sampler is being kept out of games against pitchers where they show better results against... i.e. Dunc in vs. W. Rodriguez? This could be shortsighted on my part as I like Bartons speed in the order, as well as the field.
C'mon you Redbirds, lets prove em' wrong, again!
by yer dog first on Apr 11, 2008 4:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
TLR's quotes confused me
"I think it's an easy thing to say that (Barton) should get more at-bats, because he played a part in three wins," La Russa said. "But you look at who you're going to sit to play him. Are you going to play him in center instead of Ankiel? Are you going to play him instead of Chris Duncan? I don't think so. You want to play him in place of Skip because Skip was struggling. Well, Skip got three hits yesterday.
Why shouldn't we play him against Chris Duncan? Why is Duncan such a "lock" for the outfield? He has completely regressed offensively to the player he was in the minor leagues, he is horrible defensively.
...just a bit outside....
by Ankiels Missing Curveball on Apr 11, 2008 4:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
*against = instead of
...just a bit outside....
by Ankiels Missing Curveball on Apr 11, 2008 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd venture to guess that Brian Barton only made the team
because he had to or we lose him.
Tony's got his favorites and the favorites play.
Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS
by Hardcore Legend on Apr 11, 2008 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Barton has made the team
As the 5th Out fielder. He has already started 30% of the games. After tonight it will be 36%.
Duncan has looked bad in his 16 at bats this year. But in his 681 at bats his .270 avg and his .520 is pretty nice to have.
I also don't think he is untouchable. It's not like he hasn't been sent down before. It's just Tony not hitting the Panic button.
by Evilfrog on Apr 11, 2008 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
agreed
Sheesh. 16 at bats and all of a sudden Brian Barton is a better player than Chris Duncan? I do think Barton should be in the lineup versus lefties--which he is. And Tony does a GREAT job of putting guys in spots they can succeed which often times leads to better numbers (which is a good thing).
Tony isn't playing favorites. Dunc has actually been one of the better LH power guys in the NL since he came up. You should just bench him because he has stunk his first 16 AB's of 2008?
SUBURBS: Where Americans cut down trees and then name streets after them.
by beanocook on Apr 11, 2008 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's in the past. spring training said otherwise. besides, give barton the starting position, and if he fails, bench him for a while. at least, that's what I would do
Ankiel is Jesus!
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Apr 11, 2008 5:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, when I read that I did a double take to. Why is Duncan untouchable? "I don't think so". It's not like we've got some upcoming hall of famer in the outfield. Just doesn't want to piss off dunc sr.
Ankiel is Jesus!
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Apr 11, 2008 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Patience must be a virtue
for fans of TLR-led teams. It takes him a looooong time to give up on a player, but sooner or later he does when it becomes clear he has to. I'm confident that a guy like Shumaker, who I don't believe is good enough to hold down a starting job in MLB, will sooner or later prove that to be the case. I try to look at it like this: The only way for Tony to come around to my way of thinking is hard, bitter experience and plenty of it. So the challenge for us is simply to endure until then.
Ain't sports fun?
by MdRedbirdFreak on Apr 11, 2008 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
true dat
Ankiel is Jesus!
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Apr 11, 2008 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
do
Other managers give up on players sooner?
SUBURBS: Where Americans cut down trees and then name streets after them.
by beanocook on Apr 11, 2008 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure
But Joe Torre doesn't seem to have any qualms about putting Juan Pierre and his ludicrous salary on the bench due to ineffectiveness.
"Well, folks, this game began as a tiny worm and is blossoming into a large cobra." - Mike "The Moon Man" Shannon
by Tudor's Electric Fan on Apr 11, 2008 5:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but
Pierre was never all that good to begin with.
And despite Duncan not hitting much (in all of 16 at bats), he still has an OBP of .364, which is really the important thing if he's hitting 2nd.
3 hits or not, Skippy is still the guy who should go to the bench. He's never going to be more than a 4th outfielder. He's the Aaron Miles of the outfield, because he's Tony's pet, he plays far more than he should.
by DiscoJer on Apr 11, 2008 8:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I should take issue with your first sentence ...
Jumping on your opponents' little mistakes to win games is what good teams do. Inability to convert opportunities into wins is part of the reason why bad teams are, well ... bad.
Perhaps I'm misinterpreting. Maybe you meant that capitalizing on opponents (i.e., good opponents) mistakes is one of the only ways bad teams can win games.
by MdRedbirdFreak on Apr 11, 2008 4:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
actually, that is the only way bad teams can win games is the way I took it. I think the best way this situation work would be to differentiate two teams that are nearly equal on paper, but are worlds apart in practice.
Ankiel is Jesus!
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Apr 11, 2008 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT
Hey Az, I didn't read the post the other day where you said you'd turned in your thesis till much later. Congrats! I'm a ME myself, but the prof in the next office is a EE power guy. Good luck in whichever direction your heading.
by ArkansasTravs on Apr 11, 2008 4:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Grady Sizemore
just took a year off of his life, ala Edmonds, highlight is on gameday 3rd inning.
And CC has been absolutely terrible so far through 3 starts - just got the hook.
by enoscountry on Apr 11, 2008 8:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
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