Franklin is in the mix to be St. Louis Cardinals closer
Traveling is the enemy of workable schedules. I'll have something up tonight, but in the meantime what do you guys think about this possibility?
On the one hand, it's probably just La Russa creating a motivating situation, as he's wont to do, but on the other it's a classic early-sabermetric idea come to life—supposedly unenlightened manager puts mediocre reliever in closer slot, unwittingly installs his best relievers as Relief Aces who come in when the game is really on the line.
8 months ago
DanUpBaby
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oh good lord
I guess if Franklin is kicking butt, it’s OK. But if he starts sucking, TLR needs change what he’s done in the past . He needs to stop using Franklin.
by sdrone on Mar 9, 2009 12:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I am all for it
if we use Perez, Motte, and Kinney in those tough spots even if that happens to be the ninth
"Baseball is dull only to dull minds." - Red Barber
by nomar34 on Mar 9, 2009 12:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
wow cant believe i forgot
KMac
"Baseball is dull only to dull minds." - Red Barber
by nomar34 on Mar 9, 2009 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I remember them saying that they were prepping him to be a starter in the offseason
but he hasn’t started any games…
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's getting
3 IP appearances. so yes, he’s being stretched out as a mid reliever/emergency starter, rather than a late inning reliever.
by ball in play on Mar 9, 2009 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's good I guess
not so good for Brad Thompson
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brad Thompson doesn't need "prepping"
He can do anything and can do it at anytime.
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 9, 2009 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's true
hopefully he will take us to the world series and win it!
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Thompson should be the closer
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
and....BEN SHEETS!!! **
**not that BEN SHEETS might be involved in this comment, just BEN SHEETS!!!
(BEN SHEETS might be involved in this comment)
by mattyfrommo on Mar 9, 2009 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well he is the AA Single-season scoreless innings streak holder
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i thought
they said that was because he has more pitches to fine-tune than the average reliever?
by STLRegalia on Mar 9, 2009 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that doesn't sound very legit to me
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Really? That seems pretty legit to me
Don’t they say the same thing about Franklin?
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well
it kind of contradicts what they said about prepping him for a starter. who knows.
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
goold related this story before via tweet.
franklin had a good year after prepping as a starter(stints of 3 innings in ST). doesn’t mean he’s going to start or be long relief. It’s just how he preps. no big conspiracy here.
by tom s. on Mar 9, 2009 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes, no conspiracy
I was talking about McClellan though…. it’s really a non-issue, we shall see what happens
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he was doubled up with carpenter, ready to step in if carpenter
flagged. carpenter has been good, so kmac has been doing the middle of games.
by tom s. on Mar 9, 2009 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i have read that
about franklin, but not about k-mac
by ball in play on Mar 9, 2009 5:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Franklin as closer
is a marketing technique to make sure everyone tunes in for the full game, making sure those late inning advertisements are heard.
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 12:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
In all honesty
I don’t think it matters hugely – I tend to agree with Dan. Although he’ll be taking plenty of high-leverage situations, realistically TLR would be handing him those anyway as a set-up guy (i.e. he’d probably be taking 7th and 8th inning duties regardless), so it’s kinda meh.
Closers are over-rated. We’ll lose just as many games with Franklin giving up gophers in the 7th as we will with him giving them up in the 9th.
Personally, I’d rather use him as long-man (providing Kinney is OK and Motte makes the team) and occasional set-up when no-one else is available, but realistically he’s probably a set-up guy or closer in any case.
If he goes back to his (probably aberrantly low) 2007 walk rate, then he becomes a shut-down reliever again. Let’s not forget that that’s possible, too – in which case he’d be a real asset again, and probably as good as (if not better than) Perez.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Mar 9, 2009 12:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
me too
I think he’d make a good long reliever, we can use Motte and Perez in the 8th and 9th, or however it works out
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 12:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
also...
He’s “in the mix”. I think if Perez continues to pitch reasonably well, it’ll be his job to lose.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Mar 9, 2009 12:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Duncan seems to like
Franklin as a set up guy. I don’t personally care who does the job as long as they have success. I have a bias towards guys that throw hard in the ninth. I’ve just seen the Cards at the mercy of guys like Wagner and Lidge in the ninth so many times. I’d like to see Perez or Motte step up and grab the job. In any case, I’d like to see them be productive major leaguers over a full year. Hopefully Perez’s foot doesn’t continue to be an issue.
by Toddius on Mar 9, 2009 12:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ditto
with some exceptions, flame-throwers can do better in the tense ninth inning. Seems like if Motte or Perez dominate their first hitter, they feed off that and turn in a sharp inning.
If, on the other hand, they can’t find the plate…ooops.
In any case, I don’t see how we can be as poor as last year, no matter who fills which roles.
by the Tewk on Mar 10, 2009 2:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The closer and closer we come to opening day, the closer it seems...
Wow, Franklin’s in the mix! Who woulda thunk it! Who really knows TLRs exact thinking here? My view is it really do not matter; the way Perez is talking and pitching – trying to get a little more bite on his slider ; the way Moltte is throwing 90+ strikes; and the way Franklin has been lights out; the rest of the division is looking at big trouble.
I sort of like the idea that these three guys will be collectively available, in whatever roles, when the rubber meets the road.
by deweydell on Mar 9, 2009 12:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
it seems like
Franklin doesn’t really see himself in the closer spot, per the articles and stuff, saying he has the experience in that role, and would fill in if necessary. It looks like he’s going about it with the right attitude. He’ll try his best, and if his best fits better in the 9th than anyone else, so be it. I personally think he’s still better suited for the setup role, even in this situation, but I’m glad he’s in the bullpen nonetheless. Ths bullpen is a hell of a lot younger, so it needs those veterans to lead it. I’ll miss Springer.
by WyoCardsFan on Mar 9, 2009 1:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Give Franklin the 3-run saves fine with me
Not afraid to nitpick
by joker24 on Mar 9, 2009 1:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
My favorite quote in the article
is Duncan saying that Franklin “is the best in the league in that role (set-up man)”, (parenthesis mine).
Did he forget the JJ Putz and Ryan Madsen are set-up men? Chad Qualls, Carlos Marmol, and Johnathan Broxton were also set up men last year, and were heads and shoulders better than Franklin is and has been in the past.
"I just wish that the late Harry Caray were still around so I could hear him mispronounce 'Kosuke Fukudome' every fukun' night" -- Dennis Miller
by fourstick on Mar 9, 2009 1:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't mind this statement so much
but I would just like to see positive comments about all the players, not just the favorites.
Those Pilgrims ain't lookin' so proud now...
by giveml on Mar 9, 2009 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
honestly, right now, i'm cool with the closer by committee.
if we have a bunch of reasonably talented right-handers, there’s nothing wrong with having one guy pitch the seventh on Tuesday and the ninth on Thursday.
I’m really starting to think we should do away with the fixed bullpen roles and pitch to the actual batters coming up that inning and not the number in the box score.
by tom s. on Mar 9, 2009 1:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
yeah but I don't believe they will do that
it will be the best option imo, but I think TLR will eventually have his closer guy, just hope it’s not Franklin
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually TRL said that he would go by matchups if no true closer emerged
vivaelbeñsheets
by vivaelpujols on Mar 9, 2009 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well that is good
encouraging at least. I actually remember him saying that… which doesn’t really mean a whole lot.
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I sure hope so
I sure hope the days of throwing Izzy out there (or anyone) “Just because” are over.
In the past, Tony did not seem to understand Einstein’s definition of ‘insanity.’
by the Tewk on Mar 10, 2009 2:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have heard from guys in the bullpen
That they actually do like their set roles.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm thinking
that since TLR likes matchups so much, he might just do this
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's the thing...
I think saves are overrated. However, having a “good half” of the bullpen is not. Franklin isn’t a good half pitcher…He’s a long-man. Perez, Motte, Kinney, McClellan…those guys are good half types (assuming KMac doesn’t get pitched into the ground). Franklin should be a member of the Cardinals pen, just not as a high-leverage situation guy.
"Your Holiness, I'm Joseph Medwick. I, too, used to be a Cardinal."-Joe Medwick, to Pope Pius XII.
by redbirdnation8206 on Mar 9, 2009 2:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I kind of echo the more positive sentiments here.
If Franklin is serving as our closer, that is an awfully good problem to have. Although not the best, he really didn’t do an awful job of closing last year. Also, that allows us to move Motte and Perez into more of the “fireman” roles. Under this scenario, we may very well have our best pitchers (Motte and Perez) in the most high-leverage situations.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Mar 9, 2009 2:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
So what do
New York writers do to feel better about their A-Rod situation?
Well trash Tony La Russa of course.
"Do what you want to the women and children but leave me alone"- George Carlin
by That's a Winner on Mar 9, 2009 2:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm
just exactly what about the article constitutes "trash"ing?
Those Pilgrims ain't lookin' so proud now...
by giveml on Mar 9, 2009 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well
It’s just kind of insinuating
vivaelbeñsheets
by vivaelpujols on Mar 9, 2009 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
isn't it just insinuating the truth though?
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
and....BEN SHEETS!!! **
**not that BEN SHEETS might be involved in this comment, just BEN SHEETS!!!
(BEN SHEETS might be involved in this comment)
by mattyfrommo on Mar 9, 2009 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think its awesome
TLR is as high profile as it gets as far as managers are concerned. He’s the man.
by bornin82 on Mar 9, 2009 3:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
off topic
in case you haven’t read this article about Ludwick: link
He reported to spring training one pound heavier with 2.5 percent lower body fat.
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 2:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Luddy said he was a little tight from working out so much and that is why his swing was off in ST.
Hopefully he is stretching himself out like a mofo.
*Rasmus is to CF as Longoria is to 3B*
by Red Blazer on Mar 9, 2009 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
if he even does 80% of what he did last year
I’ll be happy
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Franklin is our closer....
who becomes the long reliever? If it’s Thompson, that means that one of Motte, Kinney, Perez and KMac is sent to the minors.
I guess they could use KMac as the swing man, but I think he is too good of a pitcher to be uses for 2-3 innings every 3rd or 4th day.
by MattK on Mar 9, 2009 2:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
not sure that there will be enough room for Thompson
unless they leave Motte in the minors for more work.
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats the thing
We NEED Thompson cause he is the long man especially if Franklin is the closer. I don’t see how you could justify sending down Motte. He seems to be on his game. Perez will probably get sent down before Motte, imo. (Cause of his heel issues)
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
perhaps
McClellan will be the long man now
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ESPN fantasy baseball
has Motte ranked higher than Perez…do they know something we don’t?
by STLRegalia on Mar 9, 2009 3:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Motte is a pitcher than Perez RIGHT NOW
Motte has far superior control compared to Perez. If I could pick one stat for relievers it would be K/BB rates. Anything over 3 is closer like. Perez would be lucky if he could crack 2
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ahhhhh..... I think Motte is a better pitcher than Perez RIGHT NOW
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would hope that Mottes career as a catching should aide him in being able to pitch and not just throw.
I also love that look on his face as he throws the baseball. It’s almost as if the baseball travels so fast out of fear to get away from that snarling grimace Motte displays as he releases the ball.
*Rasmus is to CF as Longoria is to 3B*
by Red Blazer on Mar 9, 2009 6:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Think of it this way
They’re projecting that the Cards are going to have a closer by committee, so there’s nobody to pimp for the purpose of saves. If you’re taking a Cardinal reliever for fantasy, you might as well take the guy who projects to have the highest strikeout total. Motte could be a very valuable reliever in head-to-head leagues this year, similar to how valuable Arredondo and Broxton were last year — high leverage situations with a lot of K’s and a few possible wins and saves.
"I just wish that the late Harry Caray were still around so I could hear him mispronounce 'Kosuke Fukudome' every fukun' night" -- Dennis Miller
by fourstick on Mar 10, 2009 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I shudder to think it
… but I expect Motte or Perez to be sent down. Whatever, Tony is who he has always been. We should not be surprised after all these years.
by jjray on Mar 9, 2009 3:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who would you send down?
Perez or Motte are the most likely, b/c they make the most sense. Not b/c of some bias.
"Stats are for losers," Muschamp said after last week's victory. "I like winning games."
by SoonerfanTU on Mar 9, 2009 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
do tell
how it makes the most sense… are you going only by experience? then yes, I suppose there’s no argument. if you go by all factors, then they should not be sent down.
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
limit the number of high-leverage innings thrown
I like the idea of letting bullpen guys rest up a bit in between MLB innings. It would be nice if we had 4 MLB-quality rookies and we could rotate them down every 15 days or so.
"i have a feeling the answers are bigger than the questions" -Dr Heyward Floyd
by SleepyCA on Mar 9, 2009 11:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because they are young, duh!
Not enough gravel in the belly yet. When you are young and cheap, you are expendable. If you are old and expensive, you get to stick around.
by Hardcore Legend on Mar 10, 2009 1:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My guess
is that Perez will open the season at AAA, with Thompson, Kinney, Franklin, K-Mac, and Motte opening the year as the right side of the ’pen.
by liam on Mar 9, 2009 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would have no problem with K-Mac getting sent down
If they are serious about turning him in a starter he can only do that in Memphis.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
are we sure Tony will keep two loogys?
I have my doubts that any two of Trevor Miller, Royce Ring and Charlie Manning are better than the righties being mentioned above. Will TLR insist on two situational lefties out of formula stubborness?
I would much prefer to see BOTH Motte and Perez made the club.
by the Tewk on Mar 10, 2009 3:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't forget...
Reyes. Unless they are really terrible (or an injury) it will probably be Miller and Reyes as lefties in the pen.
by AirForceCardsFan on Mar 10, 2009 4:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
miller and reyes are on the 40 man and don't have options
that competition is over barring injury.
by adiueordie on Mar 10, 2009 4:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Who here lives in Chicago or knows Chicago well?
I am heading to Chicago the Saint Patrick’s day parade on Sunday. My biggest concern is I have no clue where to park without out getting anally raped. Can I park at the Train Station? My hotel is right off the M. I barely remember Chicago it has been years since I have been there.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
surprise surprise
that would be me
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
although I don't know what the M is...
are you talking about union station?
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe I just don't know what I am talking about
My hotel is right next to the Loop
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
you can avoid parking downtown altogether if you park near a Metra train in a suburb
then ride the train in.
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Any recommendations to which one?
Is the Metra and the L the same thing?
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
flim, you could also just take amtrak -- fares are running about $20 each way.
relative to the cost of gas, that’s not too bad.
by tom s. on Mar 9, 2009 4:36 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
That might be a good idea
I really hate the idea of having to drive around downtown in a city I don’t know during a crowded weekend
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
yeah, just take the amtrak dude
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I looked online and the killer is coming back
Unless I leave at 9 in the morning on Monday, Which won’t happen I will have to wait till 5PM to leave Chicago.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 4:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
the Metra and L are not the same thing
the Metra are bigger trains like the Amtrak that go further distances and hook the suburbs up to the city. the L train is just in the city, if you are staying near downtown and are going to the downtown parade, you probably won’t even have to use it.
I’m not so familiar with the burbs, you would have to go to a south burb near I-55 I would think, so go to the Metra website
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
parking will probably AT LEAST be $10
does your hotel have any parking?
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Still not sure what Hotel I am staying at
Trying to get a free one
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Parade is Saturday not Sunday
Park in a northside neighborhood for free then take the El downtown
by ews on Mar 10, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, the South Side Parade is Sunday.
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 10, 2009 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Strauss said today it was just Tony's way of motivating YP & Applesause
he said the team is really now on board with the kids closing & is leaning towards a two headed closer till one of them proves they are the man.
of course i’m fighting a migraine today so i could have misheard what i heard. so you all just better listen for yourselves.
BEN MOTHERHUSHYOURMOUTH SHEETS
I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson AND THAT'S A WINNER!
by gdm426 on Mar 9, 2009 4:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Thank you Jesus
I’m actually Jewish though, but still. This is exactly what I was hoping for the entire time. Seriously, do any of you guys have any doubt that Perez and Motte can be capable closers next year? I would put money on it, that they would combined to be withing 5 saves of K-Rod next year, if given the chance.
vivaelbeñsheets
by vivaelpujols on Mar 9, 2009 5:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Young Pitcher"
TLR using Perez’s first name in interviews is a good sign for Perez.
"I'm gonna throw the nastiest curveball I have ever thrown...if he hits it, I'll tip my cap, but if not we're going to the Series."
--Adam Wainwright on the final pitch of the 2006 NLCS
by bgh on Mar 9, 2009 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Short Memories
Does anyone remember that Franklin struggled last year. He had his days but he also had some days that he got knocked around. I understand that he looks great this spring, but I will take my chances with Perez and Motte.
I think the interesting question is who is going to stick as the right handed relievers. They have depth here just like they do in the outfield.
by Warcard on Mar 9, 2009 5:44 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Who could forget that fateful series vs. Milwaukee?
Amongst others. Franklin was not good last year. He walked 3.43 batsmen per nine innings pitched (which is about normal for his career after cutting than number by more than half in 2007). Also, after posting a WHIP of 1.01 in 2007, it regressed back to his skill level and was 1.43 last season. Thus, his FIP last year was 4.75 after being 3.96 two years ago. Lastly, he was 17/25 in save opportunities, blowing 8 saves, for a save percentage of 68%, which is nothing to write home about or recognize as being the type of performance that would make someone a proven closer.
"I'm gonna throw the nastiest curveball I have ever thrown...if he hits it, I'll tip my cap, but if not we're going to the Series."
--Adam Wainwright on the final pitch of the 2006 NLCS
by bgh on Mar 9, 2009 5:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
not a returning
reliever who had half of franklins WPA in 08, while franklin threw the highest leverage innings from the pen for the season.
as you mentioned, we know he can be better than 08 too.
by ball in play on Mar 9, 2009 6:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
man
i get so tired of looking up statistics. i don’t think i’m gonna look any up this year. its such a waste of time, because i never bring anything to the table anyway. you nerds usually cover it all anyway.
by adiueordie on Mar 10, 2009 4:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've seen you pull up some good info out of nowhere
just not a ton of fancy stats
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 10, 2009 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hell
the whole bullpen got knocked around at times last season
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
and....BEN SHEETS!!! **
**not that BEN SHEETS might be involved in this comment, just BEN SHEETS!!!
(BEN SHEETS might be involved in this comment)
by mattyfrommo on Mar 9, 2009 6:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But Perez
is most likely going to improve. Franklin on the other hand, most likely will not.
vivaelbeñsheets
by vivaelpujols on Mar 9, 2009 7:07 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
not a big fan of him closing
but at least he is doing well so far in spring training. should be Motte or Perez depending on the hitter
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 7:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Everyone's favorite player update
2 IP, 3Ks, 3 ground ball outs, 0 BB, 0 hits.
And counting.
by TICY on Mar 9, 2009 5:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Who?
hecanthithecanthithecanthithecanthit
by Alxfritz on Mar 9, 2009 5:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh
Guess I don’t care.
hecanthithecanthithecanthithecanthit
by Alxfritz on Mar 9, 2009 6:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I don't either.
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 9, 2009 9:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
i might draft him in my fantasy league if he’s around in the 27th round. other than that, no interest.
by adiueordie on Mar 10, 2009 4:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think I remember that guy
Didn’t we sell him for $50,000
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Mar 9, 2009 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I drafted him in my salary cap league
only get 3 pitchers, I have him, Carp, and Welley
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 9, 2009 7:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
indeed.
i would pick up j. sa…
wait we’re in a league together now. nevermind.
by adiueordie on Mar 10, 2009 4:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'm thinking Anthony?
BEN MOTHERHUSHYOURMOUTH SHEETS
I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson AND THAT'S A WINNER!
by gdm426 on Mar 9, 2009 6:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are correct sir
defy, cards, defy. hey logic --- you suck.
by effin fisk on Mar 9, 2009 9:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are we really going to do this all year?
He’s not on the team any more, time to move on.
Can we expect a few Danny Haren updates next?
by dcfcblues on Mar 9, 2009 11:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ricardo Rincon sucked yesterday for Mexico.
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 9, 2009 11:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i hope not, i can't take any more Danny updates
to me more accurate, my liver can’t take anymore Danny updates.
BEN MOTHERHUSHYOURMOUTH SHEETS
I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson AND THAT'S A WINNER!
by gdm426 on Mar 10, 2009 1:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i saw steve kline buying toilet paper yesterday
by adiueordie on Mar 10, 2009 4:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's a positive.
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 10, 2009 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought he used his hat for toilet paper...
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Mar 10, 2009 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i thought he lived in Canada
BEN MOTHERHUSHYOURMOUTH SHEETS
I'm going to go try to find a puppy and kick it. - Brad Thompson AND THAT'S A WINNER!
by gdm426 on Mar 10, 2009 11:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good for him
I’ll probably go to a few Indians games this year if I know he’s pitching.
by Hardcore Legend on Mar 10, 2009 1:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
in play(runs)!
Yadi with a bases loaded double to put PR ahead 2-1 over the Nederlands in the bottom of the 8th.
by Evilfrog on Mar 9, 2009 9:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
And then was thrown out at the plate
trying to go from 2nd to home on a singal. Apparently he forgot he was a Molina.
by Evilfrog on Mar 9, 2009 9:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He thought he was Bernie Williams.
and he’s correct…….except his defense is much better and he can hit….
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 9, 2009 9:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is he dating your mother or something?
vivaelbeñsheets
by vivaelpujols on Mar 9, 2009 10:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bernie or Yadi?
Because it makes a difference….
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 9, 2009 10:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, I was just making fun of him.
It’s not a big deal. Everyone knows he’s not fast anymore, can’t hit anymore and plays bad defense.
Oh, and he tried to score from 2nd on a ball hit directly at the right fielder and got nailed at the plate rather easily.
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 10, 2009 12:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes I know
I was asking a rhetorical question based on the fact that you clearly thought that Bernie sucked.
vivaelbeñsheets
by vivaelpujols on Mar 10, 2009 12:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I figured it was common knowledge...
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 10, 2009 12:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know you are but what am I?
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 10, 2009 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
anyone have airtimes for PR v Ned?
Not that I have the channels, probably…
"But listen, and understand: more Molinas are out there. They can't be bargained with. They can't be reasoned with. They don't feel pity, or remorse, or fear." - THT
by Yadi2Second on Mar 9, 2009 10:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's over.
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 10, 2009 12:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And it's only on mlb.tv or mlb network
not sure if you get either one. It’ll probably replay over night on the network sometime and i’m sure it’s archived (or will be) on mlb.tv
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 10, 2009 12:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you can get 360.
I have comcast and can’t get 360. I’ve been emailing for a couple of years about it.
Getting two tickets to an execution is like getting two tickets to NASCAR, except you KNOW Jeff Gordon's gonna die.
by Tackle Box on Mar 10, 2009 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good luck with that
It’s a deal between them and the network — there’s a big hullabaloo about it in terms of network neutrality: ESPN offers that service as a subscription package bundled with their TV service. My company (Mediacom) carries 360, but some companies, including Comcast, don’t. Welcome to the future of web content!
"I just wish that the late Harry Caray were still around so I could hear him mispronounce 'Kosuke Fukudome' every fukun' night" -- Dennis Miller
by fourstick on Mar 10, 2009 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
forget health care
i want obama to do something about the darned cable companies.
"i have a feeling the answers are bigger than the questions" -Dr Heyward Floyd
by SleepyCA on Mar 11, 2009 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I don't see why Franklin should close as he is now our 6th best reliever..
The closer role clearly overwhelmed him in 2008 and he broke down with the more difficult workload. He is old and not likely to improve much on his 2008 numbers, even if he moves back to a setup role.
The difference between giving up gopher balls in the 7th and the 9th inning is that you have time to come back if the opponent ties or takes the lead in an earlier inning. If your closer blows the save on the road by giving up a 3r HR in a 2 run game than there is no time to attempt a comeback. That is why i am of the opinion that your best reliever(Motte), must always be made the closer. The leads blown in the 9th inning hurt worse than leads blown in any other inning, as there is less time to erase the deficit after it is incurred.
Franklin is perfect as a 6th/7th inning pitcher. In the relative cocoon of pitching in earlier innings he’ll hopefully repeat his 2007 season. But I would rather see any of Motte/Perez/Kinney/KMac or now even Reyes close before Franklyn.
by Czechguardsman on Mar 10, 2009 1:14 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
and to back up your statement about closers having the most affect on ballgames, Sky Kalkman proved it with LI. Here.
vivaelbeñsheets
by vivaelpujols on Mar 10, 2009 1:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The impact is definitely more visible whan the closer is struggling as opposed to some random setup-guy.
I forgot to mention but the other reason why the best reliever(Motte) needs to be the closer is because even if he blows the save or comes in to a tie game in the 9th inning; if need be he can stretch out into extra innings, which tend to be full of high-leverage situations. If your best relievers have already been expended as firemen in firemen situations in the 6 – 8 innings, than they can’t very well be deployed if needed in extras.
I don’t think Franklin has a serious chance at closing. I just think that TLR is making waves to light a fire under the younger relievers. Teams don’t seem inclined to go with Joe Borowski type closers anymore. If 2008 said anything about Franklyn, it is that he clearly can’t shoulder the burden of closing for even a few months, much less a full season. Just give Motte the job.
by Czechguardsman on Mar 10, 2009 1:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or Perez
Or Kinney
vivaelbeñsheets
by vivaelpujols on Mar 10, 2009 1:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
All 4 candidates are looking solid so far.
Where is Mike Parisi?
by Czechguardsman on Mar 10, 2009 1:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What could Parisi's 2008 season have been if he had just stayed in the bullpen?
He was just crusing along for his first 10 or so appearances but then those two games he started around June just destroyed him and sent his ERA over 8 and he never recovered wether starting or relieving. But if he had just finished out the year in the pen and kept his ERA under 3.30 how different would his situation be now?
Or would he just have been overexposed and crushed during the bullpen implosion down the stretch?
by Czechguardsman on Mar 10, 2009 2:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
all i know is
i didn’t want to find out what his 2008 season would have been at the major league level at the time.
by adiueordie on Mar 10, 2009 4:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I watched Franklin for years in Seattle.
He doesnt seem to have that “Closers Mentality.” He whined A LOT and placed blame on the other guys on the team. He just doesnt seem like the kinda guy that says “give me the ball I lock this down.”
by oneseasoncom on Mar 10, 2009 1:55 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
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