Sometimes the other pitcher is just really, really good
Nothing to be done—it's not often a game that seems so lopsided at the start, featuring a slumping team and a lopsided pitching matchup et cetera, actually ends up so lopsided. Brad Thompson seems like the ideal underdog in this kind of thing; he's not much but he's rarely beaten into the ground, and even in tonight's game he, uh, minimized the damage, to the extent of his abilities. Too many singles, an enormous home run, but just one walk; in another configuration that might not be four runs.
But the Cardinals would still lose. I hate to mention the no-hitter, but Lincecum's having a just-about-perfect season so far. His ESPN season projection: 35 starts, 246 innings, 285 strikeouts, 60 walks, nine home runs. That's right: style guide rules dictate that I spell out the number of home runs he allows in 246 innings. That's a good omen, unless he's stepping in against your team's stunned lineup.
I don't profess to know who we'll still be talking about 20 years from now, certainly not when it comes to pitchers, but Lincecum looks the part. He's wholly unique as a character, from his little league mound presence to his wild Gashouse Gang delivery, but statistically he's a perennial—tons of strikeouts, no walks, no home runs. You can't ask for anything more than that. Like I said: I don't want to jinx it, but for the last year and a half he's pitched like a poor man's Pedro Martinez. Nothing this team could do about that.
After the jump: Mark DeRosa energizes the team, Clayton Mortensen has a bad day, and in a very special episode Joe Thurston reveals that he suffers from baselexia, and has been hiding it all along because he didn't think the gang would understand (even though they really do!)
DeRosa's leaping catch, sandwiched between standing ovations two and three on his first night in curtain call country, requires me to invoke the exceptions-proving-the-rule clause of sportswriter stubbornness. That beautiful play aside, he's currently 0-7 in two unattractive Cardinals losses since the team fed Chris Perez into the Miklasz Care-o-meter. Of course this means nothing, and of course nobody thinks it does. Which is a fine way to start writing about a subject.
Anyway, it seems like we're very open, as a rule, to glossing over early failings to help an Energizing Trade narrative along; if the Cardinals struggle for another two weeks and then take off we'll still happily credit it to DeRosa's account, is all I'm saying. It's a good thing that we do, too, because otherwise season recaps would be considerably less interesting.
Our last Energizing Trade is almost too recent for me to recap—it's Jeff Weaver, riding in to save the day by not pitching all that well and then finally pitching pretty well in the playoffs. It was a different trade than this one, to be sure; it could be lauded because it was low risk, converting two good months from toolsy Terry Evans into a starting pitcher, and derided because it was low reward. But it was made with the same idea in mind, the new blood at a rough spot kick-starting a moribund team. Here's Some Blog on the occasion of the trade:
it does not strain the imagination to suggest that weaver might come in here, make 16 starts, turn in 9 or 10 quality starts and win 7 games. none of the cardinals' competitors in the division is likely to add a better pitcher than that; in what currently looms as a tight three- or four-way race for the division, weaver has a chance to make a real difference.
and then on August 3, after Weaves and the Cardinals got blitzed 16-8 by the Phils, midway through one of their famous multi-game losing streak:
i've seen all i need to of weaver; the experiment failed. he was worth a look, but these early blowouts sap morale, and the cards appear to have reached the limit of theirs. weaver's next turn comes monday in cincinnati, the first game of an important series; the cardinals simply can't afford to send him out there.
common sense dictates that his slot should go to wainwright, but it remains la russa's policy to run other, less competent pitchers out there.
(That last sentence is irrelevant, but I left it in because it's classic lboros x-acto knife prose. My rendition of that thought would require three sentences, eleven em-dashes, and a day-late qualification of my earlier position.)
As we know, here in the future, the Cardinals sent Weaver back out there, and he had his best start of the season, striking out seven in six innings to run the team's modest winning streak to three games. Then they got blown out 10-3. (That just was not a team that could Get Started—it was tuned for frustration, a lot like this one.)
Weaver didn't get the team going; one guy doesn't turn a mediocre team into one capable of meteoric winning streaks. But they went 8-7 when he started, and he replaced Sidney Ponson, who had not appeared in a game the Cardinals won since the end of May at that point. Weaver didn't pitch long enough to make quality starts, but even what he did, improbably as he did it, was enough to make that real difference. The Cardinals won the division by a game and a half.
Weaver and DeRosa and everybody this side of Will Clark can't make a team win eight in a row for the Gipper, or get everyone into shape with a well-placed montage. But if they play better than the mess they replace, and the division's close enough, they can certainly take the credit for it. I won't blame them.
#
Does someone want to explain this at-bat to Gameday?
| SPD | BRK | PFX | PITCH | RESULT |
| 89 | 7" | 12" | Fastball | Called Strike |
| 86 | 8" | 5" | Changeup | Swinging Strike |
| 87 | 7" | 7" | Changeup | Ball |
| 87 | 7" | 4" | Changeup | Foul |
| 91 | 7" | 11" | Fastball | Stop doing that! |
Juan Uribe homers (2) on a fly ball to left field.
There's Mortensen's problem, right there: 89 mile an hour fastball, 86 mile an hour changeup(?), consecutive pitches. To make things worse, 49 of his 50 pitches were classified as either fastball (ranging from 89 to 93) or changeup (ranging from 82 to 86). Some—maybe even most—of those pitches were probably sliders, but few of them did much of what Dizzy Dean would call sludding, and when they weren't the change of speeds wasn't enough to throw anybody off the scent. (His two strikeouts were against Pablo Sandoval, who will swing at anything and in that at-bat did, and Andres Torres, who swung at two of the worst consecutive pitches I have ever seen a non-pitcher wave at.)
I'm not about to judge a guy on one outing, but he's 24 right now, and the idea when the Cardinals reached for him back in 2007 was that he was only a few years away from shoring up the bottom of the rotation on the cheap. Back then I whined about the bizarre tactic of intentionally drafting back-of-the-rotation guys, who usually seem to show up, uninvited, on their own accord, and I'm still worried about the efficacy of that idea when I see Mortensen now. Now's the time the Cardinals were preparing for when they drafted him; hopefully he's ready for it.
#
Bill James Online's main draw is getting to read The Man Himself write incisively and accurately about all things baseball once or twice a week, but it has a sideline in exotic statistics, and one of them attempts to quantify how many bases a player adds or subtracts from the team till by virtue of his baserunning. It passes the first rule of statistical thumb: the players who you would expect to be really good at it are really good at it.
Scott Rolen, for example—here we take off our hats for a moment of solemn reverence—he's really good at it. This year he's taken twelve extra bases and made just two extra outs. In 2004, when he was at the height of his powers, he took nineteen and was only caught once, for a grand total of 26 bases the average runner wouldn't be expected to have.
Joe Thurston, for example—he's really not good at it. He's a daring, speedy baserunner; he's taken eight extra bases so far, and gone from second to home four times out of six chances. He Makes Things Happen, and if he had just kept his head down and done that he would still be assembling a cult utility-infield following. But he's already made five outs that the average baserunner wouldn't be expected to make. The final analysis rates him, already, at -6; Bill James Online sadly does not allow anti-leaderboards, but I'd be hard-pressed to think of anybody who weighs less than 270 pounds who would already be in that range.
It would be exciting if his outs came in the course of, well, Making Things Happen, but the weird thing is that just the opposite is true; they come on some of the most mundane plays imaginable, plays in which baserunning risk is the last thing on anybody's mind, up to and including the team playing defense.
His last gaffe was probably not game-altering—let's not humor ourselves, Joe Nathan was coming in—and it was almost excusable, coming as it did after LaRue and Oquendo had a sign mixup. But it just wasn't a situation in which you expect a major league baseball player to even be threatened, and that is what makes it so unspeakably frustrating to see it playing out over and over. I've just never seen anything like it.
3 recs |
563 comments
|
Comments
This guy our next Weaver? ;)
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ap-astros-backe&prov=ap&type=lgns
I’m sure he can throw a good BP. He’s had lots of practice.
by outraged on Jun 30, 2009 7:23 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Backe is dreadful
at least weaver has some talent.
Backe’s only talent is as a punchbag for albert. Which is kinda cool, though…
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 7:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ian Fucking Snell Already
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 8:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
GOTTA
agree what was it 17 strike outs the other night in triple A?
Pujols takes out "I" in BIG and "A" in MAC, previously considered to be an unyielding, consonant threat
by DESTROYER on Jun 30, 2009 8:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes it was
And now there’s no way we’d get him, being in-division rivals and him being all strikey-outey and whatnot.
by mojowo11 on Jun 30, 2009 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed the to no-no in terms of trading potential game changing players within the division,
regardless of how bad they are performing. Does Brad Penny sound at all reasonable? I heard the BoSox aren’t as interested in trading him as they were a couple weeks ago, due to his recent good pitching and the question marks surrounding Smoltz. Do you guys think this would be a good pick up that wouldnt cost too much?
by sleeple55 on Jun 30, 2009 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't this the spot
where someone makes the obligatory “Ben Sheets” comment?
by Anonymous Communist on Jun 30, 2009 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
SHEETS
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Troy Glaus!
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
a thought about Weaver the elder
Cards fail to pull come-from-behind win against Dodgers for pennant.
Dodgers win WS.
Jeff gets ring #2.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 9:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i could get used to a world where jeff weaver and so taguchi have two WS rings
and a-rod has none.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 5:19 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
YES.
Just found this in my cache.
"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 Jul 2, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
heh
backe
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If he does troll his way onto the team,
Don’t let him throw BP to Albert!
by sleeple55 on Jun 30, 2009 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
unless he wants to be destroyed!
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Correction:
unless he wants to be eliminated!
by cardsgirl95 on Jun 30, 2009 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
BRINGING UP WEAVER
i actually wore my 2006 championship hat into work today, took alot of flack from the remaining and always cynical royals fans in my office for wearing it and of course they brought up the 85 world series…i have a blown up picture of the blown call at my desk as well as a pennant that says the cardinals won in 85 dont know where my parents got that one
Pujols takes out "I" in BIG and "A" in MAC, previously considered to be an unyielding, consonant threat
by DESTROYER on Jun 30, 2009 8:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That is truly awesome dude
the funny thing is… that I have always heard Royal’s fans talk about that series more than Cardinal fans complain about it. Of course that does not mean much considering my exposure to Royals and cardinal fans talking to each other about the 85 series. I was born in 86 so I have no memory of it. But my father who was born in Kansas City but grew up in St. Louis and had the prudence and wisdom to be a Red Bird faithful follower, talks about that series from time to time. But he hardly whines about it.
The Redbirds are of the highest priority to me... As it should be
by ANDYAK47 on Jun 30, 2009 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of the royals,
Has anyone seen the Youtube video royals by mail? INSTANT classic……
by sleeple55 on Jun 30, 2009 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would like to rec the caption for the picture.
Well done.
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 8:40 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
+1
"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 Jun 30, 2009 9:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i laughed so hard
a little bit of coffee came out of my nose.
Stupid Sexy Flanders!!!
by timmycardinals on Jun 30, 2009 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
it made the loss sting a little less
by prophetjohn on Jun 30, 2009 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i think "baselexia" merits a rec.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
you all say you rec'd it, but i only see 1 rec
mmmmmmmmm,,,,,,,,,
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As long as we trot out Welley and PK
we’re gonna lose two games per week.
Only scoring 2 RPG doesn’t give us much of a chance in the remaining three either.
Proud sponsor of the Official 2009 StL Cardinal theme song: Reason to Believe
by gocards62 on Jun 30, 2009 9:06 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Colonel and the Brad Wonder
Colonel: 88.2 IP/5.68 ERA/1.703 WHIP/111 H/11 HR
Wonder: 48 IP/4.69 ERA/1.271 WHIP/49 H/5 HR
I’m not, nor have I ever been, a big fan of Thompson, but lumping together with Colonel version 2009 is entirely unfair to the Boy Wonder. His ERA is nearly a full point better and his WHIP is 0.400 better. He has been a much better pitcher than Colonel and that is why he deserves to stay in the rotation once Lohse returns.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
FIP
Wonderbrad: 4.77
Wellemeyer: 4.87
Not really a huge difference. I would take Welly going forward because he at least has had some success as a starter. Actually, I want Snell.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you have FIP for Thompson since he began starting?
I’d be interested to see that. I hesitated even posting the full Thompson line because he was horrible out of the ’pen and appears to be much more effective as a starter.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
His career line as a starter, per Baseball Reference:
157.1 IP, 20 HR, 45 UIBB, 59 K, 13 HBP.
That translates to a 5.21 FIP.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can you translate 2009?
While I agree that his career is more indicative of expected future performance, he hasn’t been all that horrendous this year. Or so it seems. That line, per ESPN.com, (which seem likely to make me stand corrected):
33.1 IP, 4 HR, 10 BB, 9 K, ?? HBP
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That translates to a 5.12 FIP
Could be more or less depending on intentional walks and hit batsmen.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So, I was wrong.
And Welley was right. Or, something. Maybe those 111 hits allowed have taken such a toll on my subconscious that I can’t believe that the Colonel has pitched better than his ERA suggests? Allow me to wave the battle flag for sending WonderBrad to Memphis upon Lohse’s activation…
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I look forward to the day
when the myth of Brad Thompson the starter officially dies. Brad Thompson should not be on this team next year. We have guys who can do his job just as well that won’t be getting arbitration money.
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Sure we do.
Garcia? out. Boggs? sucking at AAA. Mort? sucking with big club. Who’s left?
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mort and Boggs are capable of putting up better FIP's than Thompson
And they have more potential beyond that.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really do like Boggs.
He was pretty impressive when he was up with the big club. I don’t know if it as hangover from being demoted or what, but he really hasn’t been very good since being sent down to AAA. Maybe a call-up would get his juices flowing again.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 11:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Boggs was superior to Welley at the time of his demotion.
I hate that he is still down while PK and Welley have rotation spots.
Decrease runs scored?
Maybe.
Decrease winning? Never seen that proven.
-SFTU
by hazel on Jun 30, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
mort has one ML appearance
i don’t think it’s really fair to assess him yet
by prophetjohn on Jun 30, 2009 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Garcia
will return next season.
"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs. That is a fact." - Chris Carpenter
by spants on Jun 30, 2009 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Possibly this season
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mort? really?
Glad he was given a fair shot before you decided he sucks
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
by mattyfrommo on Jun 30, 2009 7:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
For the sheer obviousness of this post..
…I am going to rec this. Why oh why is this team bound and determined to keep Brad Thompson around? I know I know the team seems to win games behind him, but that logic is tired and stupid and frankly should just die one of these days.
Thompson has, for all intents and purposes, one real pitch. He throws some kind of crappy slutter kind of thing and flips a changeup in there here and there, but by and large he’s got a sinker. Only, that sinker does not sink with any kind of interesting sinkitude. We are not talking about a Roy Halladay or Brandon Webb or Derek Lowe bowling ball, or even a Joel Pineiro brick ball…we’re talking about a ball that simply dips some because it feels it has nothing better to do, or perhaps it is so afraid of the bat that it tries to get out of the way.
Said sinker does induce a fair number of grounders, probably because hitters are so overjoyed to see a 12 year old on the mound they forget to swing normally or something like that. This sinker and the combination of minus-secondary pitches has resulted in a pitcher who has a K-rate that is inspiring only in its remarkable uninspiring-ness.
- Career: 4.10
- 2009: 2.81(gah!)
This man simply refuses to miss bats. Now, he doesn’t walk people that much either, but because of his ultra pitch-to-contact ways his career FIP is every bit of 4.92. This man is utterly, completely, and otherworldly mediocre. Why must he be here? Is it inconceivable that Mitchell Boggs couldn’t do at least as well and perhaps better? Maybe not even Boggs…just some random dude? Brad Thompson, bless his heart, is not a ML caliber starting pitcher and should not, for any reason, take the roster spot of any of this organizations more talented arms. It’s not because Thompson is a bad man or horseshit or whatever…it’s just that he’s such a daggone known mediocrity, and I hate known mediocrities almost as much as I hate Joakim Noah or the weird infomercial dude who knows government programs and dresses like the Riddler.
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
rec'd.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Decrease runs scored?
Maybe.
Decrease winning? Never seen that proven.
-SFTU
by hazel on Jun 30, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's the guy
I really have a strong negative reaction to him. No idea why.
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because he is a fraud,
who preys on credulous fools and old people?
Decrease runs scored?
Maybe.
Decrease winning? Never seen that proven.
-SFTU
by hazel on Jun 30, 2009 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is not all fraud
I have skimmed over his book before and saw some decent ideas. Your best bet is just to check it out at your library.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I must have been thinking of Ken Trudeau.
Decrease runs scored?
Maybe.
Decrease winning? Never seen that proven.
-SFTU
by hazel on Jun 30, 2009 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's not as bad as that weird 6 flags guy imo
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
mor flags!@ mor fun!@
that dude creeps me out. he looks like a creature from a horror film.
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
if they wanted an old man to be their new mascot
why didn’t they just get a real old man, instead of some dude in a bad getup?
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The most irritating athlete in the world...
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oops.
I was trying to put a pic of Noah in that white suit on draft night making an ass of himself, but the pic was huge so I took it out…i also forgot to delete the post. Me fail.
Anyway here’s the link to the picture…JOAKIM BEING JOAKIM
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wanted to say this last night.....
But I wasn’t around until really late.
I’m not trying to pick a fight, or start a war, but the news we are getting on Colby and his stomach is EXACTLY the reason why it is lame to criticize the lineup on any given night. Not one person on this board, with all the connections and links to St. Louis and the ball team, mentioned anything being wrong with Colby, yet that has most likely been the reason he has missed some games recently.
We don’t know all the teams’ information on a day-to-day basis. Nobody does except those that run the team, and those that play on the team. I’m not trying to toot my own horn and say I was right, it isn’t about that. My entire point on the lineups is that we just don’t know everyday what is going on with injuries and illnesses. Ryan’s wrist played out the same way. And other injuries did earlier this year.
Say you were standing with one foot in the oven and one foot in an ice bucket. According to the percentage people, you should be perfectly comfortable." - Manager Bobby Bragan
by SoonerfanTU on Jun 30, 2009 9:19 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Which is why
after all the talk about transparency from the front office two years ago re: injuries after the non-stop Mulder, Rolen, Edmonds, and Carpenter disasters, the secrecy continues to frustrate many.
They devote a segment of the radio pregame to the injury report, and yet Colby’s condition, which has kept him out two games, was never mentioned. Nor was his ankle condition when that kept him out. Just not good PR in my book.
(also, Colby is rapidly turning into JD Drew.)
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why?
Why let another team know that Colby can’t PH that day? Wouldn’t it be better…..on day-to-day type injuries, to keep the other team in the dark?
IMO, the FO doesn’t owe the fans or the media any explanation on injuries, until a guy hits the DL.
Say you were standing with one foot in the oven and one foot in an ice bucket. According to the percentage people, you should be perfectly comfortable." - Manager Bobby Bragan
by SoonerfanTU on Jun 30, 2009 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Colby still pinch hit
Replace the word “fans” with “customers” and I believe they do.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry
but I am actually going to have to agree with Sooner on this one. Best thing for the fans is to win games. If you can deke the other manager into a favorable pitching matchup by trotting a guy into the on-deck circle who is actually too injured to hit, then that trumps everything else.
Of course, they do have a place for guys too injured to hit – I think it’s called the DL.
Those Pilgrims ain't lookin' so proud now...
by giveml on Jun 30, 2009 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
"DL? Is that Latin? I'm not sure what you're talking about..."

"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
“Rasmus is day to day with an upset stomach, but is availble to pinch hit.”
Takes ten seconds to say and clears up everything.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe they should publicize the next pitch
that we are going to throw so fans arent “in the dark”…give me a break.
by UNCDubya on Jun 30, 2009 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Apt comparison.
That is exactly the same thing.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
TLR's buddy Belichek always gets hit with this same sort of stuff...
I’m not a Patriots fan, but I certainly agree with his philosophy that the less the media and his opponents know about his players injury status the better. Sooner is right on this.
by VinegarBend on Jun 30, 2009 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hate the JD Drew reference but I'll admit I'm concerned
about the way this injury is described. He’s “eating too late” and it “rests on his stomach” not to mention the word hernia has been thrown around. I just hope this isn’t something worse.
As far as complaining about lineups, I think we can still do that even if we later find out that a player’s hurt but the complaining needs to come with these injury caveats. That doesn’t really bother me. We’re fans — TLR certainly isn’t losing sleep over it.
My problem with La Russa is less about the day to day lineup and more about the poor lineup construction with horrible OBP guys batting in front of Albert on a regular basis and playing “hitters” who aren’t hitting rather than weaker hitters who are better defenders (i.e. Rick/Dunc & Colby).
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm with you regarding Colby, AZ.
I was completely shocked to hear rumors about him pouting last year. Now, he has been benched with poor eating habits?
I hope he doesn’t turn out to be one of those “talents that could”.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Radio Pregame
FWIW, the “injury report” portion of the radio pregame show is matched in worthlessness only by every other part of the radio pre-game show that precedes the real announcers. A 15-second injury report that generally tells how many of hte opponents’ players are on the DL, and only occasionally names them makes me laugh with derision almost as much as the “Who’s On Top” portion of the pre-game show that devotes a full 20-seconds to telling you where the Cardinals are in the standings. Each with :30 spots before and after the show portions, of course.
I have heard better pre-game segments before high school basketball games.
/rant
by SouthsideCardsFan on Jun 30, 2009 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
FLAG'D!!!!!!
(for last line)
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 11:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that is a fair point.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Entirely fair
But, pinch hitting Ryan instead of Ludwick against Arizona was a horrible decision. TLR knew less than the VEB community on that one. I was going to type that I’ll call it a wash, but I don’t. That managing decision was the equivalent of a Rick Ankiel PA. Horrendous.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
A
highatal hernia is not a career ending injury. Its just Colby’s reminder to live in the real world, and that no matter how you try to make it seem, there is pressure out there. Considering the nature of the problem, and who is handling it, you shouldn’t be surprised that there are mysteries. Something to remember, Ankiel has to show some skills at this point in order to have any value in a trade. Someone in the front office may be trying to create more space without defaming Colby to get said playing time. There is an appearance of more medical bungling, but that could just be a cover to this purpose. This is just wild speculation though.
On Liceum. He can’t last. Enjoy him while he’s here.
by OperaCard on Jun 30, 2009 1:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Huh?
That was…well it was something.
Care to elaborate on why Lincecum won’t last? His delivery is a marvel of biomechanical efficiency.
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Honestly, I'm no expert
but I absolutely love Lincecum’s delivery. He uses his entire body to throw the ball. As crazy as it looks, it seems pretty efficient to me.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
predicting a young pitcher won't last
is like predicting I won’t win the lottery twice in a row the day after my numbers come up; if you don’t have a specific reason for bringing it up it just sounds kind of obvious. Given the spotty track record of predicting pitchers based on the perfection of their mechanics or lack thereof I’m hesitant to say Lincecum’s more likely than anybody else to break down.
by DanUpBaby on Jun 30, 2009 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kolfax
As wiry and efficient as he is, he is still getting his release points on his fastball and slider “confused”. Arm too straight. Its great while it lasts. This is also a description of virtuosity. MLB has become a “Roman Colosseum” event in the last 20 years. Public expectation will drive him to injury. 250 innings will kill him. Think rock star. Sorry. I could be wrong. But that is unlikely.
by OperaCard on Jun 30, 2009 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That may be the single most disjointed post I've ever read.
And I’m pretty good at writing disjointed posts.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ECkStream
We all loved Sandy in his day. He appeared to be the model of efficiency. Our hearts were broken to learn that his wonderful curve had destroyed his elbow. The virtuosity that he displayed wasn’t in accordance with his god given body. Look around. See who is surviving and why.
by OperaCard on Jun 30, 2009 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You live out west?
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Huh?
Dude, my name is right above your post. And you still misspelled it. Are you the guy holding up the “Morans” sign from the other day’s thread?
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The plot thickens...
westcoastbirdwatcher once called fourstick “fourskin,” then blamed it on his spell check. Heh.
by BTown Birds fan on Jun 30, 2009 6:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I sure am glad that d-bag Mr Redbird isn't around anymore.
wait… what?
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 6:22 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
What a tool
I hated that guy
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 6:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry about the miss spellings
I had a client looking over my should. Sandy Koufax , hall of fame pitcher, and Eckstreem it is. I wrote about Liriano’s adjustments in recent days and also Santana’s so check the other threads if you’re interested. Lets hope the Tim has a long career in SF.
My experience suggests that a straight arm release of a slider will eventually destroy the elbow. Thats only my experience though.
by OperaCard on Jul 1, 2009 12:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hmm
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jul 1, 2009 1:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This rambling bullshit routine
is really annoying. I give it another week.
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It's partially my fault for engaging him.
My bad. I find it entertaining, but I’m sure it unnecessarily clogs the thread.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The wonderful curve,
and 250 pitches in a single game. Three straight games on short rest, etc.
Decrease runs scored?
Maybe.
Decrease winning? Never seen that proven.
-SFTU
by hazel on Jun 30, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This sure seems west coastian in origin to me...

"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 Jun 30, 2009 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
for what it's worth
there’s no evidence for that on the administrative end, and wcbw’s previous sockpuppets were considerably easier to spot. So long as OperaCard remains a good citizen—if also a speculative one—I’d hate for him to be prematurely tarred with that brush.
by DanUpBaby on Jun 30, 2009 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
WCBW
I always enjoyed his prose. It was sort of like someone was translating the Riddler’s diatribes from a Batman comic book that was written in French in which the Riddler was terrorizing the Saint Louis (“san louie”) Cardinaux. Why he got the boot is fuzzy to me right now.
I don’t mean to suggest that OperaCard should be censored or anything.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
BGH
From what I read yesterday. He seemed to like Lohse at 40 million and some guy by the name of Boros who campaigned heavily against it didn’t. He also seemed to be suggesting the Cardinals were headed toward a Farm based system a year ago. No one seem to agree. He also predicted a pay roll of 91 million which wasn’t popular either apparently. He was wacky though. An obvious personality disorder.
by OperaCard on Jun 30, 2009 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep.
You’re definitely him.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The "disjointed" one above
starting with “Kolfax” did it for me.
by goodymobb on Jun 30, 2009 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
this oughta be good
i’m gonna go make some popcorn.
by _pistol_ on Jun 30, 2009 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or, if I may translate:
“I am he, the man of which you speak!”
by mojowo11 on Jun 30, 2009 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I for one
am excited
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i know WCBW, and this dude is no WCBW
sorry to rain on the parade, but this guy/gal ain’t even close
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
you keep saying that
was he your alter ego?
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
by mattyfrommo on Jun 30, 2009 7:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This Game Illustrates
the hitting woes of several Cardinal players. It is one thing to get shut down by a good pitcher but it is another thiing to miss pitches by a foot or so. The Cardinals are a station to station team and they have to many players that swing for the HR all the time. Games like this make me really miss the traditional small ball with a true leadoff hitter and a true clean-up hitter.
The constant line-up switching, in my opinion, is part of the problem and yes some of it is out of necessity but most of it is Tony trying to play the odds. This team needs a set line-up but will never have it as long as LaRussa is the mgr.
Defense wins games and there have been several instances this past week where it really hurt. Duncan is getting the most of his ability in LF but the truth is that he cannot cover the ground or make the throws and Schumaker is playing out of position. I think they need to start stabilizing everything by putting the best defensive team on the field – it sure doesn’t seem like it could hurt their offense much!
by Warcard on Jun 30, 2009 9:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
defense with a healthy team
Is the best defensive line up?
schu lf
rasmus cf
ludwick rf
derosa 3b
tgreen ss
ryan 2b
albert 1b
molina c
by nybirdfan on Jun 30, 2009 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
all your exclamations
I think there’s something up with DeRosa. Damn your sig!
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Again:
That’s what she said.
"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs. That is a fact." - Chris Carpenter
by spants on Jun 30, 2009 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
still very funny
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There was nothing wrong with the lineup yesterday
and I’m not convinced there’s anything inherently wrong with TLR’s “lineup tinkering”. I have yet to see any conclusive evidence that hitters do worse when they’re moved around a lineup. After the first inning it doesn’t really matter hugely anyway; you bat when it’s your turn and the order is relatively meaningless (as long as you bunch your better hitters together).
Whilst I disagree with some of TLR’s in-game decisions and think the 13 pitcher thing is stupid and may have already cost us a few runs, I think the “lineup tinkering”, as much as anything, is trying to get the best out of a group that is overwhelmingly composed of mediocre players. So far, we’ve got nothing out of our 2B or 3B groups, we have light-hitting short-stops, a guy with mental issues, and a bunch of outfielders who are all hitting well below what would’ve been projected at the start of the year. It’s hard to just run out the same team night-in, night-out when we have so many problems and players hitting well below themselves.
We also have a number of players with extreme platoon splits, hence the need for radically different lineups on a night-by-night basis depending on which arm the opposition starting pitcher throws with…
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
This one is not on Tony at all. Lincecum is just amazing, and our hitters suck. La Russa lineups have actually looked pretty good that past couple of weeks. As long as Raz, Derosa, Pujols, Luddy and Schumaker are in the 1-5 spots, I’ll be fine.
Oh by the way, gdm, I just realized Thurston sucks. Can you post the bear?
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's finally batting Ankiel lower
Which is a good development. However, he should never bat K-Greene or Ankiel in the no. 2 slot. Ever. And every time he does so, it is a poor managerial decision. (For what it’s worth, I am also not a big fan of Rasmus batting there, given his low walk rate, either.) Moving forward, I would hope that the 1-2-3 of the order would be Skippy vs. RHP/Ryan vs. LHP, DeRosa, Pujols.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't mind Duncan in the 2 hole
How did the pig corner the breakfast market?
by STLRegalia on Jun 30, 2009 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
but DeRosa is probably the best bet
How did the pig corner the breakfast market?
by STLRegalia on Jun 30, 2009 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't mind Duncan, either
However, I am quickly warming up to sending him to AAA to play every day or trading for Shelley as a righty power bat off the bench. I’m only half-kidding…
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd like to see:
Schu
Dunc
Pujols
Ludwick
DeRosa
Rasmus
Yadi
P
Ryan
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That defense sucks to much
You can’t have Derosa, Dunc and Schu all in the lineup on the same day.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is that much worse than:
- Duncan, LF
- Schu, 2B
- Thurston, 3B?
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, but I didn't want to see that either
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Something is going to suck
no matter what.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I want to see
Schu
Lud
Pu
Raz
DeRo
Dunc
Yadi
P
Ryan
I still don’t understand why TLR is so willing to put struggling guys in the 2-hole to “get them pitches to hit,” but reluctant to do so with Luddy.
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
How is Shane Robinson doing in triple A
I likes his spunk. Maybe if we gave him a chance up in the big leagues he would learn something. His defense and speed would def be an upgrade from anything we currently have. Of course the problem is that he provides no power but then again neither does Duncan or Ankiel… Idk I am tired of waiting for Duncan and Ankiel, supposedly mistake hitters he can run into home runs from time to time do nothing but put up horrible to mediocre numbers. horrible in Ankiels place. Both of those guys have no chance against good pitchers it seems. At least that holds true so far this year. More and more I wish that Yadier would bat cleanup, but who knows. He would probably ground into more double plays there. but he is a great candidate for hitting and running. Idk, tired of the anemic offense. something more than just derosa coming in needs to be done in my opinion and maybe it is just shaking up the lineup a bit
The Redbirds are of the highest priority to me... As it should be
by ANDYAK47 on Jun 30, 2009 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
if rasmus can't stay in the field, it might be worth considering
bringing up jay or robinson just for their defense. if we’re not going to have good offensive production, we should at least have good defense, and we have two plus defenders at AAA.
for now, i’m happy enough with an ankiel-rasmus-ludwick OF or a derosa-rasmus-ludwick OF. dunc is doing better at getting on base that ludwick or ankiel, but it’s probably not enough to justify keeping him in starts regularly.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe Duncan in the no. 2 slot versus RHP
DeRosa career OBP vs. RHP: .336; vs. LHP: .374
Duncan career OBP vs. RHP: .369; vs. LHP: .269
Then it’s decided. DeRosa bats second vs. LHP and Duncan bats second vs. RHP. Glad we had this talk. Did you want to tell Tony or should I?
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll say something to him while at the game tonight
How did the pig corner the breakfast market?
by STLRegalia on Jun 30, 2009 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
we can and should throw career numbers out of the window
he is not the same player at all
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
meaning duncan's career numbers
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
2009:
Duncan’s OBP vs. RHP: .350
Cardinals’ OBP vs. LHP as a team: .330
So, going by 2009 numbers, Duncan should bat 2nd vs. LHP.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Duncan's OBP
vs. LHP in 2009 is .299. I would think DeRosa is the obvious choice to hit 2nd vs. LHP with Luddy hitting 4th.
Those Pilgrims ain't lookin' so proud now...
by giveml on Jun 30, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that was a...
typo.
"Don't do anything till I get back!" - Jesus to the Cubs
by cardzfanbub on Jun 30, 2009 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah. Typo
I meant versus “RHP.” My mistake.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We are talking about OBP...
not power. Duncan still has a good batting eye even though he hits like a MIF these days. 2009 OBP vs. RHP = .350, Derosa’s 2009 OBP vs. RHP = .324 (.409 vs. LHP!!!).
"Don't do anything till I get back!" - Jesus to the Cubs
by cardzfanbub on Jun 30, 2009 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh by the way, gdm, I just realized Thurston sucks. Can you post the bear?
OH NOES! You were like the strongest Thursty advocate on this forum. I feel a bit sorry for him now – I might have to start defending him against all the Thursty hatin’ to make me feel a bit better….
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
To be fair, he's walking at a 13% clip and his BABIP is .277
He’s only been slightly below average on offense and defense, and his current prorated WAR is a little over 1.
Still, he’s been playing like shit for 2 months and he’s made so many stupid baserunning mistakes.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
actually I’m more than happy with him as a backup – I don’t think his defence is QUITE as bad as it’s looked so far, and he’s possibly as good an option at 2B as Skippy is. He really shouldn’t ever be playing 3B for a major league team, though.
I also really feel Barden’s worth another chance. I’d bring him up for Greene. If we persist with this ludicrous line of not going out and getting a right-handed OF bat, Barden can make a few non-embarassing starts at 3B when DeRosa moves to LF against LHP.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Trade?
Matt Holliday for Ankiel, Joe Thurston, Clay Mortenson(sp?) & Tony LaRussa
the secret weapon takes over
How did the pig corner the breakfast market?
by STLRegalia on Jun 30, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I've been a Thurston defender at times too
And I still think he probably has the ability to be a more valuable player than most of us would give him credit for. Still, the problem with him, in my mind, lies in his aggravating tendency to make errors that 95% of high school kids manage to avoid. How much they cost the team in runs and wins is almost secondary to how easily some of these things could be avoided. Well, Dan said it better than I ever could.
by Merry CRasmus on Jun 30, 2009 1:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
O M F G
i never thought i’d live to see this day. i’m just,,just,,,so,,,,happy viva that you’ve finally seen the light.
no,,,no,,these aren’t tears of sadness. these are tears of joy. your wish, is my command.
Yo MO!

It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
FWIW I agree about the defense, though
Thurston should not be playing 3B at all from now on. We need to find a 2B somewhere (Durham?) and I think Schu should be in the OF. Duncan should be playing in AAA until he proves he can play in the major leagues anymore; if he’s not hitting with any power, he’s useless. And (braces self for backlash) I DO think that nepotism has a lot to do with it.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are entirely correct
but there is about as much chance of that happening as of Tony being spotted at Morton’s Steak House chomping on a filet.
Those Pilgrims ain't lookin' so proud now...
by giveml on Jun 30, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
++ danup
very well written (again… i love this site…) – my favorite passage:
Of course this means nothing, and of course nobody thinks it does. Which is a fine way to start writing about a subject.
just smacks of Twain……
by cdb on Jun 30, 2009 9:52 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
samuel
i have been trying to think of a writer who danup seems like…and i think twain is perfect
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
"into the Miklasz Care-o-meter"
I’m going to go ahead and give that one the gold star for today.
by bobeans on Jun 30, 2009 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just wrote a post for Driveline about Lincecum's dominance last night
Here are some relevant graphs:

…Flight Paths

…Strike Zone plot.
Looks like our strikezone judgment was horrible again. We took way to many called strikes on pitches right down the middle, and swung at pitches out of the zone.
2 Hits… 2 Goddamn Hits?
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 9:55 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Those swinging strikes below the zone are disgusting
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
They were all on curves and changeups
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Our lefties are feeble
I don’t get as upset about the called strikes in the middle of the zone — although I’m curious if any of those were strike 3 — since I’d like to see the team take some pitches more often.
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
According to my data, we had no strikeouts looking
I watched the game, and I swear there was at least one.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ludwick
on the close call punch-out by the ump, right?
by mattyp on Jun 30, 2009 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're right, I missed it
That pitch was borderline though, so I’m not to angry at that.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Normally I agree
But against a pitcher like Lincecum, who was clearly on his game, it’s probably best to “swing at the first good strike” like Tony always says.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baby Dunk looked like a little leaguer last night in the batters box
he was so over matched it wasn’t funny. dude had no chance last night.
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I watched the first two innings
then went to bed, predicting a no-no. I was only half joking, and only 2 hits out…
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As far as strikezone judgment goes
the sequence that sticks out in my mind was Duncan’s first PA: Swings at a pitch at his shoestrings, stares at a fastball right down the middle with his bat on his shoulder, takes a pitch outside and in the dirt, then swings at a pitch at his chin. I wouldn’t be surprised if the the highest and lowest orange dots in that chart representing swinging strikes both came in that one Duncan’s AB. He looked absolutely hapless and pathetic, and he needs to be in Memphis until he is hitting (or at least not missing balls by a GD foot)
by mattyp on Jun 30, 2009 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can almost guarantee the highest one is his
and if the lowest isn’t then it’s at least one of the next two lowest, all in the same PA
by mattyp on Jun 30, 2009 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah that at bat was appalling
I really can’t see how he’s still on the roster. He’s a terrible defender, has been out with a career-threatening injury and MAJOR surgery, and is now more than TWO YEARS removed from his only period of relevance as a baseball player (and that was only for 6 months or so – end of 06 and start of 07). His eye is half-decent but I still feel he gets fooled on breaking stuff and is hopeless against LHP. Most damningly of all, he’s hit (I think) 1 HR in the last month and a half.
It really isn’t a “slump”. This is the player Dunc is, right now. He’s been injured and he’s worthless (with his bad defence and only so-so OBP for a LF) if he’s not hitting HR occasionally. He needs to be in AAA. And in answer to the inevitable “who else plays if not him?” question, we need to get someone externally. A rental bat in the OF, and it doesn’t even have to be an expensive one. Just get a league-average OF in the last year of a contract from a non-contending team. There’s at least like a dozen of them, and some of them will be sold off for a bag of balls. I just do not know what’s taking us so long to get this done…
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
How about Dunn...
the good hitting version of Duncan?
"Don't do anything till I get back!" - Jesus to the Cubs
by cardzfanbub on Jun 30, 2009 10:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is there anything to this?
Everyone (not just Cards’ fans) seems to think Dunn will be gone, but why would WAS get rid of him? Wasn’t he wicked-cheap?
Kearns might be a decent get along the rental lines you’re talking.
by goodymobb on Jun 30, 2009 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WAS would be good team if they could pitch
They have a Top 5 offense in all of baseball. Crazy I know
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think there's anything to it...
nor anyway it will happen. Washington might get rid of him to save $5M this season and $12M next while bringing back some decent talent in return…unless they think they will be competitive next season.
"Don't do anything till I get back!" - Jesus to the Cubs
by cardzfanbub on Jun 30, 2009 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kearns
I thought that he could be an interesting OF platoon option for us. Kind of. For whatever reason, he has really fallen off as an offensive player over the last couple of years. He posted a line of .217/.311/.316/.627 in 2008 and .197/.330/.322/.652 this year. Could he could play LF versus LHP for us allow for us to have an OF alignment that is two-thirds right-handed. His career splits versus LHP are: .266/.392/.426/.818. In 2008, they were not good: 99 PA/.153/.273/.224/.496. This year, he has again hit for a horrendously awful BA versus LHP, but his OBP is awesome in only 52 PAs: .158 BA/.385/.263/.648. His downward spiral has included his performance vs. LHP and it leaves me to suspect that Allen Craig could manage a line like that in terms of OPS against LHP.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yuck...
I didn’t know he fell off that much. Yeah, I’d hate to give up much (if anything) for those numbers but we really do need to do something to address our deficiency vs. LHP (and that “something” should, under no circumstances, involve playing Tyler Greene and/or Brendan Ryan in the OF simply to get another RH bat into the lineup).
by goodymobb on Jun 30, 2009 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who is this Allen Craig of which you speak?
BGH, you know as well as I do that there is no way that we promote a right-handed power-hitting corner outfielder. Especially because he is raking AAA pitching right now. It just doesn’t make sense.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because there is no way
he could play LF to Dunc’s high standards.
Those Pilgrims ain't lookin' so proud now...
by giveml on Jun 30, 2009 1:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's on the DL right now.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can't say goddamn on the air!
Don't argue with stupid people. They will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience. - anon.
by Solanus on Jun 30, 2009 12:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who cares, nobody's listening anyway
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
By my count
The Cardinals swung at 10 of the 34 pitches obviously outside the strike zone marked above. That’s a 29.4% out of zone swing . If you guy by where the strikes were being called, it looks to me like the Cardinals swung at 21 of the 52 total pitches outside the umpire’s strike zone. That would be a 40.4 out of zone swing %.
Ridiculous!
by stlfan on Jun 30, 2009 10:39 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm too lazy to check my spreadsheet, so I'll trust those numbers
That is awful. Seriously, just pathetic.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 10:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and... when does the hitting coach do something about this?
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hitting coach
what’s that?
How did the pig corner the breakfast market?
by STLRegalia on Jun 30, 2009 10:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I heard rumors they existed
"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 Jun 30, 2009 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
See, here's my question
If the team simply does not hit, like at all, for an extended period of time (except when the Marlins insist on hanging breaking balls to Ank for two days and the opponent is the Royals) when does the hitting coach get held accountable? I mean, I honestly have no idea exactly how much a hitting coach does or what McRae actually preaches or anything like that, but if your main job is to help the team hit and no one hits, aren’t you supposed to at least get a stern look or something???
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 1:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i gave up calling for Hal to be fired last year
as long as TLR is here, HAL will be here. and as long as guys like Luddy say he’s helped them with their swing, he’ll be here.
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think.
The cardinals are afraid of him. Remember his tirade with the Royals. He will completely destroy the clubhouse and probably injure somebody if he is fired.
by cdc81 on Jun 30, 2009 7:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously?
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 7:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Off Topic - Derosa Trade
Not sure if everyone saw this but I imagine people did b/c this site is pretty informed but I will bring up again.
Todd & Samuel are rumored to be on the PTBL list sent to Cleveland. Todd & Perez seems to be a high bounty to pay for Derosa.. Including Todd would change my opinion of the deal from good to we gave up too too much.
by njnick on Jun 30, 2009 10:54 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
conspiracy theory!
LaRussa tells DeRo he’ll be playing to suck for a few weeks so the PTBNL won’t be too valuable.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i heard a rumor that the cards are picking the PTBNL
is that true at all…cause that just seems bassackwards to me
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have heard so much BS when it comes to PTBNL
Like Bernie talking about it tieing to the fact if we sign him to the extension or not. Which is not even really possible unless we sign him by 12/28. Because a PTBNL has to be decided in 6 months and must switch leagues. It is more likely they will have decided by the end of minor league system.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This PTBNL...
has to be named by September from what I’ve read.
"Don't do anything till I get back!" - Jesus to the Cubs
by cardzfanbub on Jun 30, 2009 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
PTBNL is seriously wierd
I mean, who the hell thought it up? What’s the point?
I quite like it, because it sort of fosters confusion and controversy and interest, but it’s one of the wierdest phenomena in sports IMO…
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Allows teams to do more in depth scouting
Most other sports don’t have such deep minor league systems such as baseball
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably went something like this...
“We have to get this deal done now!”
“Well, we’re still looking. We still like these five guys in addition to the guy we’ve already settled on”
“Okay. There’s no way you’re getting these two, but you can have your pick of the other three.”
“Can we just do the deal and decide which guy later?”
And then the PTBNL was born.
"Don't do anything till I get back!" - Jesus to the Cubs
by cardzfanbub on Jun 30, 2009 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One time
A guy was trade for a PTBNL but the other team couldn’t decide what they wanted back and the same guy was the PTBNL
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
someone is going to name their kid PTBNL
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are cooler names:
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ha
I love nerd talk
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love that one
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
only on VEB
would you see a comic about a SQL injection attack. Love it.
youneverknow
by floodOfLove on Jun 30, 2009 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You really love it if you are the acquiring team
Unless it is a player who is going to help you right now, you might as well put off the decision as long as possible. What if one of the three players on the list blows out his elbow during the six months? Plus you get to see more development from each of the players which gives you a better idea of their potential. If it is Todd for example, you get to see how this reliever thing works out.
by OCCardsFan on Jun 30, 2009 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mo said that he gave Cleveland
a list of player and that they would chose from that list by the end of the minor league season.
by RiverRat on Jun 30, 2009 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that is how it usually works
"I think he's the best hitter of all time. I think there has never been a better hitter than him. And I know I didn't see them all, but I just don't think there could be." - Adam Wainwright on The Mang
by bmorgan on Jun 30, 2009 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
/Chitown'd
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
fer serius
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 11:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
when you've been chitown'd
you will know it
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:13 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah
just a lot later than everyone else.
"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs. That is a fact." - Chris Carpenter
by spants on Jun 30, 2009 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
pffff
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
just popping in
to rec the last two comments in this thread. you two should take this on vaudeville.
by DanUpBaby on Jun 30, 2009 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
that deserves a rec
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
One more off topic
Reading over at Athletics Nation to get a feel for the Holliday trades and I noticed that after AK’s hot start his OPS is under 600 in June. Ah, justification.
by njnick on Jun 30, 2009 11:04 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
colby is on my yahoo fantasy team
and on the updated player profiles, it says the test yesterday did confirm that colby has a hiatal hernia and gastritis…it also says that colby says he’ll be ready to play tonight
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 11:32 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Ankiel said he was ready to play after his stomach injury too
How did that work out again?
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
touche
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WebMD
If gastritis is left untreated, it can lead to a severe loss in blood, or in some cases increase the risk of developing stomach cancer.
(Ok, so they’re treating it….)
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of your stomach bulges upward out of your belly and into your chest cavity. There are three main types of hiatal hernia: sliding, paraesophageal, and mixed. A sliding hiatal hernia is generally not a serious condition. Paraesophageal and mixed hiatal hernias may get worse and are more serious.
So basically… lots of Tums and lay off the five alarm chili. If it’s more serious, he should be in a hospital.
My uneducated guess is they took no chances and made sure it wasn’t something like appendicitis.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Gammons saying that dye and rios may be available
i figure dye would cost a lot less than holliday…he can hit but not a great defender
anyone think the cards front office has any more moves up their sleeves
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 11:52 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
If Rios is availabe, we have to pounce
His skillset is that of a poor mans Holliday. Dye sucks.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rios plays one hell of a right field
I’d love to have him.
by mojowo11 on Jun 30, 2009 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rios is signed too long
09:$5.9M, 10:$9.7M, 11:$12M, 12:$12M, 13:$12.5M, 14:$12.5M, 15:$13.5M
2015? GTFO
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea
i was thinking that gammons was crazy saying they would trade rios…it was cost an ark to get him
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought you said "it [would] cost an ANK to get him"
I was like, SIGN ME UP!
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i do
I’d rather see rios the dye, for the simple fact of defense
Pujols takes out "I" in BIG and "A" in MAC, previously considered to be an unyielding, consonant threat
by DESTROYER on Jun 30, 2009 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dye has a much better contract
09:$11.5M, 10:$12M mutual option ($1M buyout)
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dye is a below average player overall
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dude is a 133+ OPS player
How is that below average?
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ok
Who cares about OPS? His wOBA’s the past 3 years have a .343, .376 and .388 over the past 3 years. ZIPS projects him to have a .376 wOBA the rest of this year, making him 24 runs above average offensively.
His defense is terrible. His UZR/150’s over the past three year’s in right are -21.5, -21.4 and -11.9. Even if you conclude that his improvement this year isn’t just the result of random variation and actually represents a legitamite improvement in skills; or you stick by your range theory, that he won’t be as bad in Stl., he is still a -15 defender at best.
If you combine that with the positional adjustment for playing right, he becomes almost exactly a league average player.
So you’re right, now below average, but not above average either. He’s certainly not worth his contract the next 2 years, plus what it would take to get him.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I honestly think in STL in LF
His range would be closer to -8 to -10 runs per 150. Chris Duncan has much worst range the Dye and is only a -8 UZR/150
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
PLEASE give me some evidence to back any of that up
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I will try
Chris Duncan has a RF/9 of 1.4 in LF and has a -1.7 RngR in UZR in 446 Inn
Jermaine Dye has a RF/9 of 2.2 in RF and has a -5.5 RngR in UZR in 550 inn
Jermaine Dye has a 100 more innings than Duncan but has nearly 4 runs worst in terms of range even though he has better range than Duncan.
Than when you look at the CF’s to the side of each of them
Cardinals CF
Colby and Rick both have RF/9 of 2.8 which puts them in the top third of baseball in terms of range in CF
White CF
The main White Sox CFer is Brian Anderson. He has a 2.3 RF/9 which puts him in the lower quarter of baseball in terms of range for CF.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
When I watch ChiSox games, Dye honestly often looks like
Yadi in the outfield sometimes. He has really regressed.
Now, that said, if you want his offense for left field or something you know Kenny Williams will take your young guys.
by sdrone on Jun 30, 2009 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
I’m living in Chicago these days and Dye is really ugly in RF, even more so than Dunc is in LF.
by mojowo11 on Jun 30, 2009 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
When I talk to Sox guys
They tell me he doesn’t look that bad but just has zero range
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well that's what I mean
It’s not that he’s a bumbling fool like Duncan sometimes can be, it’s just that he’s painfully slow and gets to almost nothing.
by mojowo11 on Jun 30, 2009 4:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The thing about Dye
Is that if you look at his UZR numbers he looks one of the worst OFer’s in baseball in regards to defense. But if you dig a little deeper you see it is not as bad as first glance. Almost all of his negative value is tied into his range. He is probably comparable to Duncan in the field. The White Sox have no good CFer’s with any range to help Dye out. While our CFer’s have amazing range. So he would be poor in the OF but not as bad as his numbers say so.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i would not mind having dye
if he is replacing duncan in left…then obviously we become a better team
i bet kenny williams wants more than he’s worth in return though
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would too
Dye is a fan favorite
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope we're not taking all the teams' fan favorites
Some of them suck.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thats a really interesting point
i still think dye is too expensive, though, and it would cost a decent prospect to land him…
Rios is a pipe dream. I still call BS that the Jays want to trade him, that would make Ricciardi utterly nuts – sign a young guy to a huge, long-term contract and then cut bait on him after THREE MONTHS of slightly poor play?!? No way.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm pretty sure that that kind of stuff doesn't really affect UZR ratings
I don’t remember the source, but I think it was someone legitimate.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It totally does
UZR is based upon your range, arm, and errors
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The theory is UZR zones don't overlap that much
I’m looking for a source.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see how that could be possibly
Especially in the OF. What if Colby ran over and caught a ball in Duncan’s zone? Does that count for Duncan, Colby, or no one?
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would actually be the opposite
UZR is based off of zones, so if Duncan misses a play in his zone (meaning, Rasmus makes a play in Duncan’s zone), Duncan would lose points off of his rating.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also, Tango said that Zones don't overlap
So this is a moot point anyway.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
perez
White Sox 6, Indians 3: Nice Indians’ debut for Chris Perez: He hit the first two batters he faced, walked the bases loaded and then gave up a fielder’s choice, an RBI double, a wild pitch and run-scoring single. One of the guys he hit — Alexei Ramirez — took it in the head and had to leave the game. Congratulations, Mark Shapiro and Eric Wedge! After fifteen years of respectability, you have finally brought the Indians back around full-circle to “Major League” territory, complete with Rick Vaughn on the mound.
by cdb on Jun 30, 2009 11:59 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ha
yea just saw the highlights…he looked incredibly nervous
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chris Perez thought the AL was like Prison
First day in get in a fight
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
was it you that used that joke last night?
cause if not…then you’re a theif
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and by theif i mean thief
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah it was me
But I still feel like a whore reusing my own joke
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i say do it
dane cook does it all the time
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and then he laughs at his own jokes
which are, as you said, repackaged from his (or others’) previous jokes.
by goodymobb on Jun 30, 2009 12:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i think he's hilarious
i meant it as a compliment
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's super lame
not funny
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
well...
that’s not sayin much ;)
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This guy is a real piece of work...
http://www.letsgotribe.com/2009/6/29/930042/game-78-white-sox-6-indians-3#comments
Scroll down 1/3 of the way to the rec’d comment in green.
I’ve never seen someone so in love with a line.
by guayzimi on Jun 30, 2009 12:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thats damning evidence
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey at least the appreciate it
And know how to properly rec quality one liner’s. Notice the green surrounding it.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
rec whore.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Just another whore
Chasing the green
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
baddum ching!
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haha
“I’ll tell you what, minimum security is still no joke. I have a couple of clients in there right now. My advice? Kick someone’s ass the first day, or become someone’s bitch.”
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of weaver
anyone see him come in and put out a fire last night…runners on the corners with no outs in the top of the 10th(tied game)….struck out the side…thats a good relief appearance
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Was seriously about to post the exact same thing
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I doubt he catches up to Troy Tulowitzki
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Best shot is that Jimmy Rollins slides even further
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
...I blame Google for this

I thought I’d be getting some Lifetime movie or something.
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I smell a game thread meme....

Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
after five minutes
Reading that convoluted description, that’s actually apropos. (I guess these card games are good for something… reading is fundamental, kids.)
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
think i'd rather him be a type b
we get a supp. pick…just like perez….i’d be afraid that if he was an A, we would not offer him arby
this is another reason i think i really like the trade
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
100% we offer DeRo arby
unless he’s injured at the end of the year. Worst case, we get a productive utility knife with double-digit HR power for about $6m. I think it’s a win whether he accepts or turns it down (and I think he’s more likely to turn it down if he plays reasonably in St Louis).
My only worry is that we screw the pooch by offering him a 2 year/20m extension or something. That’d suck (even though he’d probably just about be worth it).
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd be willing to do.....
2 years, about $15M, especially if we are for sure letting Glaus walk.
Say you were standing with one foot in the oven and one foot in an ice bucket. According to the percentage people, you should be perfectly comfortable." - Manager Bobby Bragan
by SoonerfanTU on Jun 30, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
no-brainer to offer him arbitration. With Ank on the way out they can move skippy back to the outfield and have Derosa play his natural 2nd base.
by Walking Underwear on Jun 30, 2009 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
not sure DeRo's a "natural 2nd base"
he can just about handle 3rd and is probably a + defender in the OF but I don’t think he’s especially good at 2nd…
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jul 1, 2009 6:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if the PTBNL
Has anything to do with his Elias Ranking
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why Mortensen over Todd?
Any theories as to why Mortenson was called up over Todd?
Was last night a “try out” of sorts for Mort to take Welle’s spot in the rotation?
THE SKIP IS LEGIT!!
by stltrav09 on Jun 30, 2009 12:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I honestly think the FO is trying to find who is going to stick after this season
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Does Todd not being called up
have any relationship to the theory that he may be on the PTBNL list? I can’t decide whether that would mean anything or not…
THE SKIP IS LEGIT!!
by stltrav09 on Jun 30, 2009 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
apparently
a ptbnl can’t be on the 40-man
so, looks like it’s gonna be samuel
by prophetjohn on Jun 30, 2009 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where do you guys get these ideas from?
A PTBNL can me on the 40 man roster. He just has to be in a different league and be traded in 6 months.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i got that idea
from someone who said it here
by prophetjohn on Jun 30, 2009 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
A PTBNL doesn't even have to be a minor league player
If he goes from the NL to the AL
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
how did PTBNL work in the greene trade
that wasn’t switching leagues
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
AA to MLB
Is switching leagues
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The PTBNL
Luke Gregerson is doing pretty good so far this year
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's on the DL at the moment.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He just has to be in a different league and be traded in 6 months.
Then why were we able to send a PTBNL to the Padres?
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Minor League and Major League are different leagues
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
adventures in the bizarre
Cubs promoted pitching prospect Chris Carpenter.
(BCB links to our Carp’s sn pages…)
"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 Jun 30, 2009 12:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I only wanted 2 things out of 2009
1. A healthy Carp who could return to something of his former self
2. Ludwick to keep hitting
I’m really starting to think that #2 is not a possibility. It’s discouraging. We have got to have a #4 hitter, and we’re going to have to determine if Ludwick is the guy.
by sdrone on Jun 30, 2009 12:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think Ludwick is down on himself and he is pressing
He is actually really unlucky this year. If his luck was neutral this year he would be hitting a .850OPS
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
To be fair
prOPS has too many flaws in it to be considered an accurate predictor. But you’re point is still taken, he’s been really unlucky.
Derosa.
by vivaelpujols on Jun 30, 2009 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
his BABIP is .231 while his line drive% is an ok 16.9%
i still say he will turn it around soon
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ludwick's second half will be devastating
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i really think he should have had a week or so of rehab in memphis
instead of getting thrown back into the fire…just to boost his confidence…but yes…i agree, his BABIP can’t stay that low methinks
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
wait...do you mean devestating to cardinal fans
or to the rest of the league?
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I left it ambiguous for a reason
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh you clever clever person
now you can’t be wrong….genius
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes
it’s like I said nothing
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unless he OPS's like .800 or something.
Then he hasn’t been devastating either way. Just OK.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
nice
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ludwick's second half will be devastating
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, DOUBLE devastating!!!
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jun 30, 2009 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We got dominated by the "anti-duncan"
Interesting, its possible to be efficient and dominant and not throw a sinker or cutter or even “pitch to contact”
Seems like the real key to effectiveness is to throw strikes with good pitches. Funny how when a pitcher goes with their strengths, more often than not it works (provided they have at least one strength).
This is also a good example why the first thing you do when you see a young pitcher is not to try to change their motion or arm angle.
by DriverZn on Jun 30, 2009 12:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
*cough* shelby miller *cough*
we need not screw with him too much
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lincecum on XM this morning
actually used the phrase “pitching to contact” to keep his pitch count down during a complete game. He said it was nice to throw a complete game in under 130 pitches.
by ubeddie on Jun 30, 2009 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I view "pitch to contact" as meaning two different things
1: Throw strikes rather than junk out of the zone trying to get them to chase.
2: Choose pitches they can easily put in play.
I agree 100% with #1. I hate wasting pitches way out of the zone. Or getting 2 strikes and then tossing 3 balls in a row to see if they will chase. Just throw strike 3 and either they put it play or they go take a seat.
Its #2 I have a problem with. You didn’t see him letting up of changing his pitch selection so the hitters could hit the ball.
by DriverZn on Jun 30, 2009 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think pitching to contact is actually an excellent strategy,
to intersperse with strikeout attempts. When you have the option of both you can dominate as he does because a batter has no idea whether a meat-looking pitch is just a low changeup designed to draw weak contact or a curveball in the dirt.
Decrease runs scored?
Maybe.
Decrease winning? Never seen that proven.
-SFTU
by hazel on Jun 30, 2009 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Have you guys seen the new Transformers movie?
If you haven’t… Don’t. It was long and boring.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 1:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't see your point
’cause I was doing a google image search on some woman named Megan.
by sdrone on Jun 30, 2009 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
She is overrated
And I dislike her and her toe thumbs.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i was about to say something similar
don’t know about toe thumbs…but she definitely is not as hot as people make her out to be
very fake
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 1:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hahahaha!
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes rather average
but she could be spruced up with some bacon
by _pistol_ on Jun 30, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mmmm, bacon.
Not even a cow can turn down bacon. Bacon makes everything better.
On further thought, Madeline Albright would really spruce up if bacon were involved.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 4:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
next time anyone thinks that train wreck is hot, i want you to think of these 3 little words
Brian Austin Green
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The first one was terrible
Didn’t bother w/ the 2nd.
"I think he's the best hitter of all time. I think there has never been a better hitter than him. And I know I didn't see them all, but I just don't think there could be." - Adam Wainwright on The Mang
by bmorgan on Jun 30, 2009 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
heathen
the first one was excellent
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'm a heathen b/c I didn't like a Michael Bay film?
I’d argue you got that backwards, sir
"I think he's the best hitter of all time. I think there has never been a better hitter than him. And I know I didn't see them all, but I just don't think there could be." - Adam Wainwright on The Mang
by bmorgan on Jun 30, 2009 2:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
it is backwards
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of backwards
If you watch the movie `Jaws’ backwards, it’s a movie about a shark that keeps throwing up people until they have to open a beach.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I should do that,
and set it to dark side of the moon.
Decrease runs scored?
Maybe.
Decrease winning? Never seen that proven.
-SFTU
by hazel on Jun 30, 2009 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You ever try syncing Dark Side of the Moon
To Wizard of Oz before? It is pretty funny when you are severely F#$%ed up
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would just like to state
that this thread, despite containing very little conversation about baseball, is excellent. In a kind of off-the-wall way.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jul 1, 2009 6:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I stopped watching Hollywood movies because they are horrible
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
heh
actually, I hardly watch any movies anymore. big on cable series though… watching Eastbound and Down and True Blood.
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chitown, you enjoy the True Blood? I too dig on the TV series these days
My wife absolutely loves True Blood and, well, I think it’s pretty ridiculous. It’s entertaining, don’t get me wrong…it just reminds me of like a Spanish soap opera + vampires + sexuality, which isn’t necessarily bad, just a little cartoonish.
Of course, she also fell into the damn Twilight books a while back, so I don’t know what her deal is with vampires. However, I was certainly not mature enough not to chase her around the house hissing at her like a vampire! Yeah, she pretty much hates when I do that, but I think it’s hilarious.
Anyway, I too dig on the TV series these days and between Netflix and plenty o’ good internet sites, you can watch a lot of stuff. We just finished the 1st season of Sons of Anarchy, which is an F/X biker gang-type show. Not too bad.
by goodymobb on Jun 30, 2009 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I won't go near anything twilight
but I used to be a big horror fan, and read the Vampire Chronicles books, which were really good imo. plus, I’ll watch about anything with Anna Paquin in it
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anna Paquin
Huge, HUGE Anna Paquin fan. Both as an actress and as a looker.
I mean, I’ve got a bit of a gut, and I’ll admit to being out of shape, but not that kind of huge.
And not that kind either, pervert. I’ll be the one making fun of me, thank you very much.
Don't argue with stupid people. They will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience. - anon.
by Solanus on Jun 30, 2009 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
true blood is awesome
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Complete agreement.
"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs. That is a fact." - Chris Carpenter
by spants on Jun 30, 2009 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well
I agree about the part Paquin is both a great actress and is attractive
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 5:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I half expected you to say you were into Spin City and Coach
/Chitown’d
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
apparently you don't know me very well
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, for one I don't
Also, I keeeeed
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
sir kidzalot
;)
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 3:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did you guys see Quantum Leap last week?
Blew my mind!
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am not amused by this meem
since I listen to music that is from the future
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, Nickleback is going to be huge!
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
did you enjoy that one?
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
all right, guys, lay off.
this was an amusing thing for about a week, but I think it’s a) run its course and b) is annoying CFiC. can we kill the chitown’d?
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 3:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh but time travel and nickelback jokes
are all I have.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
god how I hate nickelback
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
God hates them too
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he should
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dude, God's a woman
(but she’s got toe thumbs)
by BTown Birds fan on Jun 30, 2009 6:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thanks
me no likey, was thinking about sabbatical
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ahh don't leave Chitown
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah,
I don’t think it would’ve caught on if people didn’t like you.
"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs. That is a fact." - Chris Carpenter
by spants on Jun 30, 2009 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn't mind it at first but thought it kinda got old
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
dude i had no idea it was really bothering you
sorry man, i won’t do it again.
like spants said, i doubt it would have caught on if you weren’t liked a lot. kind of like my iowa is smack dab in the middle of chitown & the stl or my many other f ups that turned into jokes
again, sorry it bugged you. it was all in fun. i promise.
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
like I said I was cool with it at first but then I started seeing it everywhere for a while and it got annoying and it seemed to have negative connatations when used.
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Like when we point and laughed at someone than said
Chitownd!!!
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
indeed
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 5:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha
Now I just want to make fun of you. But I will try to do my best to play nice. :p
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 5:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
I’m probably overreacting. I have a thick skin but when I see the same thing over and over I lose it
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn't even pick out my own nickname
Everyone I know calls me FlimFlam cause I got a rep for hustling people. It used to bother me but now I embrace it.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 6:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hmmm
I like that idea
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i never saw it as a negative
but i guess that’s because i like you & assumed it was all in good fun.
i also always look for the good in people. so maybe that had something to do with it as well.
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
no worries man
I figured when I said a few days back that I was going to change my moniker that people would get a clue
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 5:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
People like him?
Decrease runs scored?
Maybe.
Decrease winning? Never seen that proven.
-SFTU
by hazel on Jun 30, 2009 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
some do
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
sorry if I’ve offended you at some point… I’ve seen you express displeasure about my commentary on more than one occasion.
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
so sick of studios wasting money on bad, dilluted scripts
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think scripts
often starts strong and get diluted by the studios.
"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs. That is a fact." - Chris Carpenter
by spants on Jun 30, 2009 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
it’s the writer by committee thing that bugs me most
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can safely say,
Having watched Transformers 2, that script was doomed from the start.
by sleeple55 on Jun 30, 2009 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I should say that
some scripts start strong. I would never suspect that Transformers 2 would be one of them.
"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs. That is a fact." - Chris Carpenter
by spants on Jun 30, 2009 10:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Great Read
as we all have given ourselves the title of “fans of baseball” I recommend everyone reading this story…
Growing up, I would stop and watch 3 players no matter what was going on, if I saw them at bat. Ozzie Smith, Ken Griffey Jr., and Tony Gwynn.
Awesome story.
Stupid Sexy Flanders!!!
by timmycardinals on Jun 30, 2009 1:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I tried man...
but I couldn’t handle it. It’s a little too feel-good for me…I nearly threw-up.
"Don't do anything till I get back!" - Jesus to the Cubs
by cardzfanbub on Jun 30, 2009 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
nice read timmy
growing up, i was always a fan of gwynn too.
by _pistol_ on Jun 30, 2009 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Carp Vs. Big Unit tonight
should be a fun one to watch, and we actually stand a chance at winning
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 3:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not that I doubt the powers of Carp,
but we are facing one of the best lefties ever, and our lineup gives him a +3 powerup.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah Carp will need to throw a gem tonight
gonna need more franklins to get through this one.
by hoofhearted-pujols on Jun 30, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One of the best lefties ever who's now like 72 years old
Besides, we have Mark DeRosa now! All our problems are solved!
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've already reserved market street for the parades.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, DeRosa can't hurt, but
the older the lefty, the better they are against us. See Moyer, Jamie.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
wooo! yay!
DeRo!
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jess Todd strikes out the side in the 9th
to preserve a 6-3 win for the Redbirds, if anyone cares.
Some guy named Onelli Perez got the win for the Birds. It was his first start… anyone know his story? He did alright:
5 ip, 1 ER, 3 BB, 4 K’s
THE SKIP IS LEGIT!!
by stltrav09 on Jun 30, 2009 3:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Perez was signed from the independent leagues
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks
He’s listed as 6’2" 163 but he looks like a big boy in his gameday pic.
Sounds like a project. Any upside?
THE SKIP IS LEGIT!!
by stltrav09 on Jun 30, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
At 26 after being banished to an independent league?
not really
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
does this mean no promotion for Hearne, Az?
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think they signed him before the Perez move
so Hearne is probably still due for a callup in the near future but I’m not sure.
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 8:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What are you talking about?
Isn’t that right up Duncan’s alley?
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 5:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
/sarcasm
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
is he
this one? High strikeout rate reliever, rough intro to AAA in 2008.
by DanUpBaby on Jun 30, 2009 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Found an update...
he now sits at 200 lbs. Could partially explain why he was pitching Independent ball.
THE SKIP IS LEGIT!!
by stltrav09 on Jun 30, 2009 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Wallace
went 3-4 with a HR and a double.
THE SKIP IS LEGIT!!
by stltrav09 on Jun 30, 2009 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
woot
walrus beginning to light up AAA
by prophetjohn on Jun 30, 2009 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is always nice to see
At least once of your prospects is doing well this season. Cause it sure feels like the rest of them our tanking this season.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I gotta agree Flim.
I really didn’t think we would be a great team this year, but I thought we would be competitive. We really had no great players other than Pujols, but we hat TONS of interchangeable parts. We had depth absolutely everywhere. I thought we would be decent based sheerly on the number of players we could keep running out there.
Then Freese got hurt. Dunc and Ank sucked. Kaliel (sp?) lost his self-esteem, Luddy got hurt, Barton got traded, and the whole thing just fell apart. Our one strength, depth, just abandoned us.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well not completely
I think we lead the league in rookies played. So we got to have some kind of depth. But I do feel the lack of impact depth.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 4:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Only out of necessity.
I don’t think we would keep running Shane Robinson out there, or continue to see cameos by not-quite-ready AAA pitchers in that horrible 13th pitcher spot. I really thought we would see lots of rookies, but I thought those would be Perez, Motte, Freese, Craig, etc…
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
don't forget
Mather getting hurt (I thought he’d be a big piece this year) and Craig on the DL now too.
If you’d said at the start of the year that Nick F’ing Stavinoha would be seeing extensive playing time by May I’d have laughed at you. He was genuinely either TENTH or ELEVENTH on our OF depth chart back in March…
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jul 1, 2009 6:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
interesting
he’s been used almost entirely as a reliever in the past
by _pistol_ on Jun 30, 2009 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pirates busy making deals
Hinske to the Yankees for (minor leaguers) Casey Erickson and Eric Fryer
Morgan and Burnett to the Nationals for Milledge and Hanrahan
If this were 5 years ago they would have traded McCutcheon and cash to Chicago for Aaron Miles
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm surprised
that’s all they could get for Hinske
by DanUpBaby on Jun 30, 2009 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
really? he's got a pretty marginal bat and minimal defensive skill as a corner OF/1b.
he did hit 20 HR last year, but still finished with a .798 OPS and a .348 wOBA. this year he’s got a .339 wOBA, even benefiting from a .333 BABIP. seems like a pretty fringy player.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
fringy
but exactly the kind of guy who a contending team might overpay for when their backup third baseman is Cody Ransom.
by DanUpBaby on Jun 30, 2009 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i would have thought they'd be very interested in, say, felipe lopez.
he seems more like a quality talent suited for a backup role with the yanks.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eff word
we don’t have to play the Nats again do we? I wanted morgan to change leagues.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
once in DC (7/23) three in STL (8/28-30)
by ubeddie on Jun 30, 2009 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i freaking hate that dude
he just kills the Cards. flat out kills them
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that morgan trade is interesting. poor nyjer. the last thing the nats need is another OF.
can’t imagine why the nats wouldn’t be trying to get snell, if he’s available.
the hinske trade, not so much. can’t even imagine why the yanks would be interested in hinske.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nady is out for the year....
I think the Bombers just wanted to beef up their outfield depth. Sort of opposite skill sets when it comes to hitters though…..
by sleeple55 on Jun 30, 2009 4:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am surprised they didnt call up
Shelly Duncan or J-Rod. I think both are doing decent in AAA
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
good trade by the bucs I think
Milledge has more upside than Morgan (though arguably Morgan’s doing better recently) and I think Hanrahan has the potential to be a REALLY good reliever.
I think the acquisition of Hanrahan means that Matt Capps is going to be traded this year. I could see someone like the Dodgers ponying up for him.
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jul 1, 2009 6:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
From Chatham, then?
I’m from Springfield. So is our esteemed host, I believe.
by Anonymous Communist on Jun 30, 2009 4:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I got shot down on this board
for proposing going after Milledge—no way the Nats would trade him.
Proud sponsor of the Official 2009 StL Cardinal theme song: Reason to Believe
by gocards62 on Jun 30, 2009 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Im not gonna lie,
Even as a diehard Cardinals fan, Lincecum’s performance was REALLY fun to watch. I was at the game yesterday alittlebehind the Giants dugout, and he was amazing to watch. Sometimes, as DanUp said, sometimes we run into really good pitchers and ya just have to tip your cap to them. Sorry this post is alittle out of place, I just had to give my 2 cents.
by sleeple55 on Jun 30, 2009 3:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
yeah
that guy is good. real good.
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Line-up
Per Goold…
Brendan Ryan, SS
Mark DeRosa, 3B
Albert Pujols, 1B
Ryan Ludwick, RF
Yadier Molina, C
Rick Ankiel, CF
Tyler Greene, 2B
Joe Thurston, LF
by mike-h on Jun 30, 2009 5:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
please see my comment up-thread re: promoting jay or robinson.
if we’re going to put thurston in LF, we need to not ignore actual outfielders that we have. i was thinking of dunc when I said it, but crikey . . . . Go-go joe in LF?
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's a shame we don't have a LF in AAA that can play a bit of 3b occasionally.
Wouldn’t that be cool? We could move DeRosa to 2b, play this mystery person at 3b, and move Skippy to LF.
Man, I wish we had a guy like that.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 5:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'm all for him, but he's on the dl.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Craig isn't.
Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.
by Eckstreem on Jun 30, 2009 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes, he is.
check the roster.
he’s listed on the 7-day dl.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Thurston any worse in LF
Than Duncan?
Say you were standing with one foot in the oven and one foot in an ice bucket. According to the percentage people, you should be perfectly comfortable." - Manager Bobby Bragan
by SoonerfanTU on Jun 30, 2009 6:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's a wash
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who cares?
That’s not the problem here. He is worse in LF than DeRosa, who’s playing 3B. Thurston has played enough 3B this season to at least know what he’s doing, and DeRosa can play a decent LF. At the very least change their defensive positions.
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 6:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Thurston has been
making some dumb plays at 3B. Maybe Tony wants to try him in LF. He has the speed, no? DeRosa isn’t a “true” OF either.
Say you were standing with one foot in the oven and one foot in an ice bucket. According to the percentage people, you should be perfectly comfortable." - Manager Bobby Bragan
by SoonerfanTU on Jun 30, 2009 7:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Tony wanted to try him in LF, spring training is the time for that
Not when we’re in a division race. Just because Thurston has made some shitty plays at 3B doesn’t mean he’s a good LF. I don’t see how you could possibly think Thurston in the OF with DeRosa in the IF is a good idea at all.
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 7:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But why is Thurston in LF instead of DeRosa?
Part of the value of having DeRosa is to move him to positions that you need to fill in that night, and not embarrass himself in the process. If you’re going to stick him at third and move a 2nd baseman-turned-3rd baseman to left field and put Greene, who’s played more 3rd than 2nd, at 2nd…well at that point it almost seems like you’re playing guys out of position because you can and not because of any logical thought process.
I mean, you have to break this down visually almost
Thurston, 2nd baseman by trade—>playing 3rd—>playing LF tonight
Greene, SS—>has played 10 games at 3rd—>playing 2nd tonight
It’s bizarre.
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 7:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd put Tyler Greene at 3B
Thurston at 2B, Derosa in LF
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 7:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fair enough.....
I probably would too.
Say you were standing with one foot in the oven and one foot in an ice bucket. According to the percentage people, you should be perfectly comfortable." - Manager Bobby Bragan
by SoonerfanTU on Jun 30, 2009 7:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't most IF when switched to OFer's
Become plus OFer’s. How many infielders that switched to Outfield were actually worst in the outfield than the infield? I seriously can’t think of any off the top of my head. But can think of multiple horrible infielders that became plus outfielders.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 7:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pujols?
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 7:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But wasn't that cause of his elbow?
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 7:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he would have become a 1B eventually no matter what
just the 1st name to pop in my head.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 7:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think of Soriano, Braun, even DeRosa
All below average 3B and 2B but above average in the OF
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 7:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I looked at his 3B to OF numbers
They were about the same. Also when I say IFer’s I mean not 1B
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 7:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
IF playing OF
Most IF’ers can play competently in the OF. It’s going from OF to IF that is a very difficult defensive change.
KJOK
by KJOK on Jun 30, 2009 10:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Terrible
I hate the idea of left-handed Thurston starting in left against the Unit.
If you want to put someone out there, why not Skip?
by OCCardsFan on Jun 30, 2009 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
good point
Skip in left, plz
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thurston hits lefties better than righties
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
By an actual large margin
At least this year
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
what about Duncan
hopefully he’s ok (because there’s no other explanation for Thurston in left)
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
actually
I kind of take that back… Dunc probably isn’t that much better than Thurston in LF
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One falls over on the field, the other on the basepaths.
Otherwise they get similar results.
by DriverZn on Jun 30, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Holy. Fucking. Shit.
but on the bright side, when joe tries to destroy Dick’s career like he tried to do to Colby, it will finally allow TLR to see the light & he’ll be on a bus to memphis by the 5th inning
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why do you hate Thurston so much?
You are overly negative about him
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 5:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
overly negative?
he’s a gawd awful baseball player who can do no wrong according to Tony. he’s the second coming of Mini Me, only this guy is a thousand times worse. he never should have been given the nod over Barden at 3rd, yet just because he hit left handed & is grittier than grit, and unless he does something unspeakable to an animal or Dick. he’ll always have a spot on Tony’s team.
it really pisses me off Tony uses him so damn much when it’s clear to everyone who’s watched even one inning of baseball he has no business whatsoever being on a MLB team. i’m sick & tired of it. so pardon me & my French for being so pissed off & mad that the manager of my favorite team continues to not only defend his shitty play, but continues to put him in the line up expecting him to suddenly do something other than cost the team wins.
this is all MO’s fault really. he should know better. he’s the freaking GM for pete’s sake.
i am in no way attacking you or anyone else flim. i want to make that perfectly clear. i just really hate that he’s on the team.
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 5:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He is not as bad as you think he is
I think he has been over exposed but he isn’t really that bad. He is still walking at a high clip.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 5:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Aaron Mile Predicament.
He’s a fine 25th man . But he gets the playing time of a 10th man.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's a little both over the top and under supported.
he’s not a great player by any means, but he’s been on balance a tolerable offensive player on a weak offensive team. he ranks 3 points of wOBA behind ryan ludwick for the season, and is tied with ludwick for fifth in overall value to the team (0.5 WAR).
he has some obvious demerits, like not playing 3b well or not running the bases well. his greatest crime is being a backup infielder who gets overused generally and particularly placed at a position (3b) where he doesn’t belong. But he doesn’t write the lineups. if troy glaus were healthy (or david freese, or joe mather) it wouldn’t be an issue.
responding to somebody who says “explain to me why you don’t like him” with “he’s a gawd awful baseball player” is a bit lazy. and the degree of rancor you’re directing at him for merely being on the baseball team (not for misbehavior, etc.) is extreme.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 6:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
it seems like gdm is just mad at Tony for playing Thurston a lot
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is true.
If Thurston was used like he should be and not as an almost every day player, the baserunning thing probably wouldn’t be as much as an issue. Which would make him a pretty valuable bench player.
by cdc81 on Jun 30, 2009 7:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
lazy, yep. that's me
forgive me for not posting every damn i can find & just basing my opinion on every game i’ve watched him play. stats are great, and because of VEB i’ve learned to embrace them more & more. but they don’t tell the entire story. in fact, till recently they didn’t even have a stat to prove just how gawd awful Thurston is on the base paths. and since Dan already posted it, why should i repeat it?
and who are you to say my disgust at his place on the team is extreme? that screams of you trying to get me into a fight with you, and i’m not taking the bait.
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 7:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
you all know what? ingnore that. i'm am ass. i'm sorry.
i’ll do my best to not beat the dead horse anymore
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 11:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
![]()
"If I prepare myself, my stuff is good and I'm going to get outs. That is a fact." - Chris Carpenter
by spants on Jun 30, 2009 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yr not gonna get a way with that kind of argument on this board
you know that
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i have no problem with that argument
thats the way he feels…he doesn’t necessarily need stats to back his opinion up
just like i feel like ryan braun probably likes men…i have nothing to back that up…but it is my opinion and i will share it at times i feel fit
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:11 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
funny
heh… the 1000 times worse argument is obviously not factually true
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
?
if its not that important, then you don’t have to explain it…but i think i am missing somehting
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought your comment about Braun was funny
then went on to say that I should not have evaluated gdm’s argument as being factually true, more of a venting/opinion argument as you have stated
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh
yea…it all makes sense now
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i know, i know
no stats = bullshit in many peoples minds. it’s the world we live in.
It kind of sounds like he’s [Duncan] just running around like a puppy out there – full speed ahead in random directions. – BTown Birds Fan
by gdm426 on Jun 30, 2009 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
why are you stealing Fritz' line?
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
by mattyfrommo on Jun 30, 2009 7:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well
i’m not a fan of thurston in the outfield…but to be honest..i’d rather he be out there today than dunc…and we know tony won’t play skip against lefties
we are really missing joey bombs(man i almost typed joe mauer)
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 5:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thursty in LF?
Dear lord. I hate saying this, but (gulp) doesn’t he make more sense playing at 3rd, w/ DeRosa in LF? Or perhaps Schumaker in, you know (and this is a WWIIILLLLDDDD idea), the outfield, w/ DeRosa at third?
I’m thinking. I should just knock that shit off.
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 5:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm gonna guess Schu needed the day off
and write it off
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really hope so
I’m going go chalk it up that too…saves a lot of stress!
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 6:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WHAT THE FUCK
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
i give that a rec.
that’s pretty much been our season. I nominate 09 as the “Summer of What the fuck?!?”
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 6:16 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
yep
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know
It’s not even the collection of players TLR has starting tonight that’s got me upset. Why on earth does he have them in that defensive alignment? That doesn’t serve any strategic gain that I’m aware of. Given the 8 position players you have, PUT THEM IN THEIR BEST DEFENSIVE ALIGNMENT! There are no “lefty/righty” splits for defense!
Why wouldn’t you put DeRo in LF, Thurston at 2B, T. Greene at SS and BR at 3B? This boggles my mind.
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 6:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What exactly does Joe Thurston have to do to get DFAed?
I mean, how on fucking earth does this guy keep making it into the lineup?
Fucking LaRussa.
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 6:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
okay, this has been bugging me for a while. so here goes.
Criticizing the cardinals: well-reasoned criticism is always welcome. some of us will disagree with it and rush to defend the home team, but the community almost always benefits from a critical point of view. however, nobody benefits from infantile ravings; these are not welcome. what are “infantile ravings”? they’re comments or diaries posted in the heat of the moment for no reason except to vent frustration. for example: if La Russa makes a questionable pinch-hitting decision that doesn’t work out, comments such as “FUCK YOU LA RUSSA !!!” or “You moron Tony! You couldn’t manage a little-league team!” are infantile ravings. a comment like: “Can anybody explain to me what the hell Tony was thinking there?” would be an acceptable expression of frustration-the sort of thing a grown-up might say. before you blast away with a critical post, ask yourself these questions:
* what is my true motive in posting? there’s a difference between making a critical point and pounding your fists on the floor. if all you have to offer is the latter, do not post.
* can i back up my criticisms with some evidence and a line of reasoning? when scott rolen struggled early in the 2006 playoffs, we got dozens of angry rants about how rolen is a habitual choker with a longstanding history of playoff failure. those posts were factually untrue and easily disproven; they detracted from the discussion about rolen’s struggles, rather than adding to it. don’t post criticism that you can’t back up; but if you can back it up, bombs away.
* does my post attempt to explain why a given player (or the whole team) sucks? to stick with the rolen example: we all got aggravated watching rolen pop out 36 times in a row, so posts like “rolen-DFA that piece of junk” added nothing at all to the discussion. but it did make for good discussion when people advanced theories about why he kept popping up-“he’s lengthened his stride” or “he’s trying to pull every pitch.” and it made for interesting discussion when people debated whether or not the team should bench him, move him down in the order, or just leave him alone and ride out the slump.
* does my post convey a sense of humor? making fun of a player’s (or the team’s) struggles with humor — even bitter, barbed humor — can be entertaining. it helps our collective blood pressure drop; it also demonstrates a healthy and mature sense of perspective.
I realize the team is looking bad now, but can we please kill the posts that say nothing more than “thurston sucks”, “ankiel sucks”, “duncan sucks and his daddy got him on the team”, etc. it’s just boring to read. everybody who watches the team can see what’s going on. these comments don’t contribute anything.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 6:27 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
i think we should name the community guidlines
art of war? codex viva el birdius? magna cardinal?
community guidlines doesn’t strik fear in the hearts of man
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ooh
I like Magna Cardinal.
Art of WAR would kinda work too, in a roundabout way…
Because chicks dig the intentional base on balls.
by Felonius_Monk on Jul 1, 2009 6:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm being serious though
What does Joe Thurston have to do to get DFAed?
I probably should’ve left off the “Fucking LaRussa” part though, I apologize for that.
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 6:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh thats easy
behead a cat or call out rick to the media…he’d be DFA’d really fast
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He currently has a postive value of $2.0M
So he plays above replacement level
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 6:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'm willing to bet that value doesn't take into account horrid baserunning and marginal defense
but I could be wrong.
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 6:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would guess defense
Probably not baserunning
"If on-base percentage is so important, then why don't they put it up on the scoreboard?" - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Jun 30, 2009 6:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
bad defense at third
plus defense at second… be specific
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he will not start more than a very small handful of games at second base
so his 2nd base defense is irrelevant.
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
then your mad about his usage
not about his playing level
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
technically you're right
i’m mad that he is used it all.
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 6:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
if he were used as a platoon at 2nd vs. lefties
you would not be hating on him like this methinks…its not his fault tony plays him at third and (gulp) left field
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yep
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If he played 2B regurally
He would be even more valuable and would be a lot of valuable than Skip at 2B
Thurston should play 2B, Skip should play LF, and DeRosa should play 3B
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hey yo
you are correct, sir
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's not a bad idea
you’ve have swayed me. it’s a shame it’ll never happen though.
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like the way you think
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wish there was a way to prove to Tony
that having players play at certain positions and to know some regularity actually helps them to perform better
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know, I pile on Thursty sometimes...
…but the fact of the matter is that he’s a career minor-league 2nd baseman who is being asked to play 3rd at the ML level. No, of course his bat isn’t going to play there, and of course he’s not going to be the smoothest player over there.
He’s not a great bat, but considering how atrocious Skip has been at 2nd this team would have been better off with Thurston playing second.
VivaElBirdos...Scoring less, but more frequently since approximately 1903.
by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 30, 2009 6:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He probably would of been
If Glaus didn’t get hurt. Like you said he is not a 3B by trade. So far he has cost us 2 runs this season at 3B. Not 10 like Skip has.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 6:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
holy crap
imagine if Glaus didn’t get hurt and we still traded for DeRosa how good we’d be…
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 7:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
instead
he’ll be starting in left field!
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea i agree
he is this years aaron miles(or should be) and he is actual upgrade over miles…well excluding miles’ career year last year, which clearly was a fluke
miles in ’06 and ’07 was $0.7 mil and $0.8 mil player
thurston is better than miles
"Albert hits good pitches hard and bad pitches even harder. And when he gets in the batter's box, if you pray, then you start praying. And if you don't pray, you think about starting."--Brian Bannister
by VolsnCards5 on Jun 30, 2009 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thank you
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that is yet to be seen (upgrade over Miles)
Thursty got off to a great start, and is still living off that. Joe had his last 3 hit game on June 1, since then he is tearing it up to a .164 .270 .218 .488 line. Now if Joe can regain his early offense, he might yet be something, but if these last 24 games are the real Joe Thurston, I really will be upset if he makes it through the entire season.
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
by mattyfrommo on Jun 30, 2009 7:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That doesn't incorporate baserunning
where he’s been a decisive negative.
Future Redbirds - tracking Cardinal prospects for Cardinal Nation
by azruavatar on Jun 30, 2009 8:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well, he probably has to play measurably worse than everybody else.
and be easily replaced by somebody else.
why don’t you make the case for why he’s worse than anybody else? it’s easy to say “DFA him” but harder to make a good case for why. if you’d said “we should have mark derosa start every game at 3b, which makes thurston superfluous at third” then someone could say, “but then we’re pretty much stuck with duncan or ankiel in left, neither of whom are hitting well.” that could lead to an interesting conversation — should we use derosa exclusively at 3b or a mix of lf and 3b?
just throwing out ideas.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 6:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
to follow on . . . .
so posts like "rolen – DFA that piece of junk" added nothing at all to the discussion. but it did make for good discussion when people advanced theories about why he kept popping up
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
just like
Thurston’s last baserunning gaffe wasn’t all his fault
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
to be honest
I really don’t care about any of that. if it’ll get you stop preaching though, i’ll do my best to do it less (though, i’m faaaaaaaaaar from the only or worst offender)
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like the guidelines
although I do step over the boundaries every once in a while
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He does a better job "preaching" than I do
I just snap every once in awhile and go off on everyone for saying stupid shit.
Stat Whore
by FlimtotheFlam on Jun 30, 2009 6:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 6:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i'm not "preaching" -- i'm trying to keep the site an interesting place to go.
i hate reading the game threads — last night’s was awful. i happen to think that thoughtful discussion is better than 500 posts that say “ankiel sucks!” this is not something i invented — the community guidelines are there for a reason.
i’m not suggesting you’re the worst offender, just trying to turn over a new leaf. you happened to be the first one.
the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus
by tom s. on Jun 30, 2009 6:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand
but honestly, you are fighting a losing battle. This is the internet, where everyone is hiding behind anonymity, thus taking away the fear of making themselves look like a jackass.
The only way to stop it is through strict moderation and IP bans, and I don’t see that ever happening.
Anyways, I’ll try to stop, but I have a tendency not to put a whole lot of thought into what I type (hence frequent typos).
by dcfcblues on Jun 30, 2009 6:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
my email address has my name in it and it is just beyond my avatar
I wouldn’t call that hiding
4B - beer baseball bands blog
DeRosa>MB
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 30, 2009 7:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
anonymity ruined the internets. Which is why I stand against it.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 7:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
like you really are Alex Fritz
the glass artist
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
by mattyfrommo on Jun 30, 2009 7:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are quite a few of us out there
we forward e-mails from time to time with messages sent to us that might be meant for other alex fritzes.
At least I’m not a Bruce Weber, who is both an excellent college b-ball coach and a photographer specializing in young male nudity or former cardinal Mike Mahoney who now makes wooden bowls.
"I usually don’t read other peoples sigs." -Cuttah
by Alxfritz on Jun 30, 2009 7:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would end my anonymity and link to prove
that I am neither a male model, NBA power forward, film critic, or published author, but since one of those has always been a dream of mine, I think I will go weep in the corner.
I will be back for the game though!
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

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