Reflection
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 2:10 PM EDT
324 comments
Another offensive explosion, another sterling win for our heroes in red, another night of beautiful transit from summer into autumn. The leaves are turning, and that old familiar whisper of excitement is in the air of the city. We've missed it the past two seasons, and sorely. But that whispering, chattering idiot noise of September bliss is back in force now, as those of us born and bred into Cardinal love look to October glory once again.
Or maybe, more correctly, a vibration; a low humming everywhere you walk that has always been and always will be as the days shorten and cool. It begins in March, that hum of anticipation for the season about to begin, and continues on through the summer months, rising and falling with the fortunes of the Cardinals and the red-clad masses who follow. There are peaks and there are valleys; walkoff wins in the night over Chicago and listless losses to Pittsburgh. But it is always always always there, curling around your life until you barely even notice it. Some years that hum fades as the Cardinals fall out of the race, victims of poor planning, poor performance, or poor fortune. Some years the end of summer brings only a sigh, an inward invocation of next season as the year current winds toward its death. Some years that hum falls away with the leaves as their colour finally goes brown and they drop to the ground.
But not this year. No, this year there is a building, a hum that becomes a buzz that becomes a singing that becomes a ringing that becomes a shout. Playoff baseball is coming to St. Louis, and you don't have to look or listen for the anticipation. You only have to feel it.
It was a hell of game last night, one with a little bit of everything we hope to love about this team. There was an outstanding pitching performance. The offense simply overwhelmed the opposition, and the defense stepped firmly down on their necks to keep them from thoughts of rise.
In the whole game, though, the moment which stood out most to me, the key to the game if you will, was Colby Rasmus' plate appearance in the third inning. There were two outs, and Skip Schumaker had just driven in Julio Lugo for the first tally of the game with a single up the middle. It was an outstanding piece of work by Schumaker to begin with, to get the Cards' first baserunner of the game home after Lugo was sacrificed to second base. But the turning point was Rasmus. Behind him was Albert and the middle of the lineup; if Bazardo could just get the rookie, Pujols would have to lead off the fourth.
The count went quickly to 0-2, as Bazardo threw a wicked little changeup for a called strike one and Colby fouled off a fat fastball. The next pitch was another changeup, a little down and a little away, just the sort of pitch you want to see your pitcher throw on a two strike count. It was ohsosweet and tempting, and no one would have been surprised, I think, to see Colby swing. But he didn't. He let it go with a look, and just like that, the most important pitch of the game was taken for ball one. After that, Bazardo tried to clip the outside corner with fastballs, but he had left his paintbrush at home and Rasmus wisely just let the pitches go. Four straight balls and Colby trotted down to first base.
Albert came up with two men on and drove in Skip, and that brilliant bit of baserunning razzle-dazzle by Pujols and Colby plated the Cards' third run. But it was the walk that really created the inning. If Rasmus makes an out there, the inning is but a footnote in the eventual story of the game, one run on a clutch single in the third. Pujols bats leading off the fourth inning, and who knows where the story goes then? But Colby refusing to swing at that 0-2 changeup changed the entire dynamic of the inning. Instead of Albert leading off the fourth, he came to bat with two men on in the third, and Bazardo was forced to face the middle of the order in a scoring situation. And even though Pujols himself proved to be the last official batter of the inning, two more runners crossed the plate before the third out was made. Just a walk on the scorecard, and it seemed like such a small thing at the time, but it shifted the balance to the Cardinals' side, and they took advantage. The run Rasmus scored on he and Albert's running gambit proved to be the difference in the game, in fact.
The Cards could very well clinch tonight, if they can take care of their business and the Cubs cooperate. With that in mind, I thought we might take a moment to catch our breaths before the elation and look back at how we got here.
I think there are five things which really made the most difference for the Cardinals in 2009; five things to stand for all the hundreds of little things that have made it such a rewarding summer in St. Louis. And without further rambling from your author, they are as follows:
1) Fuentes Heads For the Coast
what it was -- Remember, back in the winter of aught eight, when the Cardinals desperately tried to sign a sinister hurler by the name of Brian Fuentes to close games for them? At the time, it seemed like the most important move anyone has ever made in the history of the game to many fans, fresh off the bullpen disaster that was 2008. When the Cardinals refused to include a third year option on a deal for Fuentes and he signed with the Angels, the bitterness and angst among many was truly awe-inspiring. There was wailing and gnashing of teeth and rending of garments throughout the land -- and by the land I mean the Post-Dispatch boards and talk radio-- as the cries of cheap ownership and foolish General Managership reached a fever pitch. Those of us who believed in the Cardinals' young pitchers and those of us who believed Fuentes to be hugely overrated rallied together in an attempt to quell the uprising, but to little avail.
why it was important -- Brian Fuentes has been, to put it kindly, less than untouchable this season. Sure, he has 44 saves, but he's also blown seven, has given up a hit per inning, and is striking out four batters less per 9 than he did last season. His FIP for the year stands at 4.53, and that 2.24 he put up last year is looking more and more like the fevered dream of a madman. (Or the fevered dream of a contract year, however you like.)
More importantly, Fuentes would have cost the Cardinals at least $8.5 million this season and $9 million in 2010, stretching the payroll much tighter than it was on Opening Day. Fuentes would have been paid three times what Ryan Franklin was to do a worse job closing out games, and there quite likely wouldn't have been enough financial flexibility to make the moves the Cardinals did later in the year. So we can go back and sign Fuentes if you like, but it probably means no Holliday now. History is fun!
2) Franklin Comes Alive
what it was -- This one sort of bookends nicely with the Fuentes deal that wasn't, as the Cardinals received a very surprising performance in the closer role from Ryan Franklin. Debate all you like how good Franklin really is (and I think most of us are well aware he's nowhere near the pitcher he pitched like for quite a bit of the season), but he stepped in to the void at the back of the bullpen and locked it down for a good period of time.
why it was important -- Well, first off, it kept the Cardinals from losing a bunch of games through late-inning collapses, which is primarily what kept them from going to the playoffs last year. Second, on Opening Day, when Jason Motte got the first crack at closing out a game and blew it so magnificently, my father and I looked at each other (I was watching the game at his house), and said, "Here we go again." If Franklin doesn't step in and stabilise the bullpen, I think it's entirely possible Johnny Mo and Co. go into panic mode and make an ill-advised deal to try and bring in an established closer. And honestly, after witnessing the troubles of 2008, it would have been tough to blame them, but the end result could have been disastrous. Thankfully, Franky did the job, and no knee-jerk moves were needed.
3) Stuck in the Middle With Schu -- and Boog
what it was -- It's a little weird now to look back, but at the beginning of the season, the Cardinals' middle infield was desperately unsettled. Skip Schumaker was making a nearly unprecedented transition from the outfield to second base, and Khalil Greene was starting at shortstop. Most of us, myself most definitely included, thought bringing in Khalil was an excellent gamble, but it was still a gamble nonetheless. Unfortunately, K-Bot has gone all William H. Macy in The Cooler on us, leaving the shortstop position wide open. Five months later, Schumaker is a perfectly adequate player at second and Brendan Ryan has taken the shortstop position by force, turning into one of the best defensive shortstops in the league.
why it was important -- Honestly, can you imagine where we would be without Skip Schumaker and Brendan Ryan? If Schumaker can't pick grounders at even a Dan Uggla sort of level, we likely see Joe Thurston in the lineup every single day. And sure, Thurston's numbers put him in the "much too hated" category, but just think of the sheer number of extra outs the Cards would have made on the basepaths. It boggles the mind.
As for Ryan, you simply can't say enough about what he's meant to this team. If he doesn't take the steps forward he has this season, a) the pitchers all probably have about half a run tacked on to their ERAs, and b) we likely see either a crippled and damaged Khalil Greene trying to play in blood-soaked long sleeves all summer, or Tyler Greene swinging at pickoff throws. Thankfully, both Ryan and Schumaker have done pretty remarkable jobs this year of solidifying the middle infield, keeping us from the horrors that could easily have been.
4) A Carpenter and a Pinata
what it was -- Following a painfully disappointing 2008 for both pitchers, in which Chris Carpenter threw only a handful of innings while trying to come back from elbow surgery and Joel Pineiro earned his El Pinata nickname, 2009 looked a tad worrisome for the Cardinal rotation. Adam Wainwright was seen as the ace, Kyle Lohse the #2, and beyond that, oy. Most thought any innings at all from Chris Carpenter would be a bonus, and we all just wanted Pineiro to go away.
Instead, both pitchers have been outstanding, with Carpenter healthy for the first time since 2006 (minus a ribcage pull, but I mean arm-wise), and El Pinata posting an FIP 1.7 runs lower than in 2008. (4.71 vs. 3.01)
why it was important -- The Cardinals aren't standing where they are today without their rotation, simple as that. Even with the additions to the offense, the Cards still struggle to consistently score runs night in night out, leaving the heavy lifting to the pitchers. Kyle Lohse has had a really awful season, due to both injury and ineffectiveness, and without the contributions of Carp and Pineiro, the rotation would have Wainwright and, um, pray for blight? I can't come up with a good rhyme there. If Carpenter only gives the Cards the ~80 innings many expected and Jo-El is the same guy he is in 2008, this team is, well, the Brewers. Minus the douchebaggery. I hope.
5) Trader Mo
what it was -- After spending his first two offseasons as the helm of the Cardinals trying to clean out the junk from the end of Walt Jocketty's tenure here, Mozeliak had essentially gained himself two reputations. Among those of us who follow baseball very closely and are interested in breaking things down from multiple angles, Mr. Mo was seen as a Hippocratic sort of General Manager, i.e. first, do no harm. He wasn't really doing a lot of good, no, but then again, he also wasn't locking the Cardinals into crippling deals and going all March to the Sea on the farm system, so we were relatively pleased. To the casual fan, though, or even the serious fan less interested in the long-term view, who just wanted to see a winning team, Mozeliak was a do-nothing puppet, the man charged by Bill DeWallet to sit on his hands and save money so they could sell off the team in a couple years. Put simply, they weren't overly fond of Mr. Mo. What was worse, even those of us who thought he was doing a solid job trying to reset the organisation were beginning to get a little antsy.
Fast forward a bit, and the team the Cardinals take into the postseason in 2009 looks very little like the team which took the field on Opening Day, and even less like the team they ended the season with a year ago. Matt Holliday, of course, is the big acquisition, but manning up and going against the field staff to trade Chris Duncan for Julio Lugo may actually be the best move Mozeliak made all year. Bringing in John Smoltz was just gravy. There are, of course, some dark spots, as Mark DeRosa's production likely could have been replicated by an internal candidate, Khalil Greene has had a truly lost season, and in almost all of his trades Mozeliak has seemingly overpaid somewhat.
why it was important -- Simply put, the Cardinals were good enough to win the division or the wild card as constructed at the beginning of the season, but just barely. If everything went right, they were probably an 86-88 win team. If they did squeak into the playoffs, you would have to have expected an early bouncing.
Now, though, the Cardinals could very well be seen as the favourites to win the National League pennant. Personally, I'm still terrified of the Phillies,but not because I think Philadelphia is actually a better baseball team. They just seem to have the Cards' number the past couple years. Regardless, it would surprise no one now to see the Cardinals facing off with whatever AL team makes it through to the World Series at the end of October, and I don't think you can say that before Mozeliak made the improvements to the roster.
Additionally, while I'm not ordinarily a big believer in clubhouse chemistry and other such things, I do think the fact the organisation was obviously trying to obtain help for this team had a positive effect on their play. How many extra wins does that translate to? I have no idea, and wouldn't even hazard a guess. But beyond just how much better the new acquisitions made the team, the players themselves were very appreciative of the improvements made. And yes, winning builds chemistry better than chemistry builds winnings, but it isn't fair to simply dismiss the boost the players got when they saw the cavalry coming over the hill.
It's been a wonderful season, and I'm hoping we have something to celebrate tonight. And yes, I am in full-on jinx mode right now, but I don't care. I'm so excited, and I find myself unable to hide it. Or something like that.
The Baron' Playlist for the 23rd of September, 2009
"Forever Young" -- Alphaville
"The Universal" -- Blur
"Train Song" -- Vashti Bunyan
"All Summer Long" -- The Beach Boys
5 recs |
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that's lugo's "O" face
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 2:22 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
If true, I don't think he's doing it right.
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
or blum's not doing it right
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or he's doing it extremely, extremely right
Not afraid to nitpick
by joker24 on Sep 23, 2009 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he got blum jobbed
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
He looks like he is boxer
Like he was in a blood brawl and he can’t stop swinging. He just finished Blum with a counter from his left. But his blood is boiling and he is half unconscious. All he keeps thinking is to step forward and swing till he can no longer breath. The picture was taken right before Lugo’s right hook swings at air and he realizes he knocked Blum down for the count.
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Abandon hope, all ye who anger Lugo
Lugo has eaten Blum’s soul, and Blum is now sinking into the abyss.
by madridbend on Sep 23, 2009 5:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I fear the Phillies also
and that is why I think it is imperative that we get home field advantage over them. Forget the Dodgers, they have a pie schedule here on and I don’t think we catch them but we play tough in LA….. the Phillies, thats a deferent story and a must to come up with a better record.
by ridgesee on Sep 23, 2009 2:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree...
Finish ahead of the Phillies. They terrify me as well, and I want no part of games 1 and 2 of the NLCS in that bandbox and that environment. It seems all too familiar to the 2004 World Series.
V, b.
by LukeMP1186 on Sep 23, 2009 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alphaville rulez!!
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 2:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Did you ever see
the Saturn commercial with Forever Young in it? I know I featured it a while back at the Rundown. Most depressing fucking commercial I’ve ever seen.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No but it sounds awesome.
Their video for Forever Young is a mind blower.
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alright then.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the Black Stallion would sell more cars.
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 6:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anything would sell more cars.
At least the Black Stallion could terrify you into buying; that commercial just makes me want to end it all because life can only get worse from here.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 6:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And nice new sig, by the way.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 6:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
not sure where the line between depressing and fucked up is
but those Australian drunk driving ads from a few years back drew heavily from both columns.
by brackenthebox on Sep 23, 2009 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+ a millionbilliontrillions
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 6:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thanks RB!
I was hoping for something like this, a synopsis for the season… nice work! especially liked the opening paragraphs, beautiful
Positronic Upgraded Juggernaut Optimized for Logical Sabotage
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Sep 23, 2009 2:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
Insightful and lyrical. I love the writing, and agree with the focus on the rookie’s at bat. Looking forward to a wonderful autumn.
by madridbend on Sep 23, 2009 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why I love VEB
People want to talk about Corky’s walk rather than his HR.
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
fuck the walk
did you see that AMAZING home run!?!?!
find me under the fan voices section for the st. louis rams
by stlcardinalsfang on Sep 23, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
RasmusGirl would agree
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
From Goold's 10@10
Lagniappe question: What Cardinal was at a Houston-area mall here for the midnight release of the latest edition of the Halo video game? He was happy to find a Halo tournament going on when he arrived.
You just know its Boog.
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 2:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I dunno, I thought I read here somewhere that Colby loves him some XBox?
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
let's vote. Boog or Colby?
I vote Boog, just for sentimental favorite. And also Goold likes to stalk him.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i could see colby playing a tournament
and eating some late night cinnabon
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Colby. I can see this happeing.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know Colby plays
Call of Duty. And who can blame him. It is the greatest Multiplayer game on the Xbox 360.
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
NAZI ZOMBIES
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Modern Warfare 2 will ruin my social life
i’m excited
by dcfcblues on Sep 23, 2009 4:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
MW2 and Uncharted 2
will definitely have a negative impact on my academic, professional, and personal life. At least MW2 has the good sense to come out after the playoffs.
by dontEATnachos on Sep 23, 2009 4:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
NHL10 is going to take over my life starting Sunday
Not afraid to nitpick
by joker24 on Sep 23, 2009 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
lugo
find me under the fan voices section for the st. louis rams
by stlcardinalsfang on Sep 23, 2009 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Clobby is a gamer, no?
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nope. If he was he'd be playing second.
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 2:57 PM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
Jason LaRue
as he’s the only player on the team from Houston.
by dcfcblues on Sep 23, 2009 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he drove the van.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
"damaged khalil greene trying to play in blood-soaked long sleeves all summer"
that might be the most interesting line i’ve ever read on VEB. i’m not sure how to react to it. but either way, excellent post RB.
find me under the fan voices section for the st. louis rams
by stlcardinalsfang on Sep 23, 2009 2:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Baron, you have a way with imagery
I just got finished chuckling at the part in your playoff article in RFT concerning whether or not the water-skiing abilities of the undead, as featured in late-night movies on USA Up All Night, counts as reliable evidence to be considered while planning one’s escape from a zombie-infested Branson, MO.
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 2:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Well thank you.
I’ve actually been sitting on the zombie Yakov Smirnoff idea for quite a while; just couldn’t find the proper place to use it.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And clearly this is a lot like the Philadelphia Phillies...
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 2:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pardon?
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh.
It’s wonderful. Thank you so very much. I meant to send you an email when I received it last week and it slipped my mind. My apologies.
Anyone who hasn’t bought a shirt yet from Flim should really do so posthaste. Come on, all the cool kids are doing it.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 5:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
"the rotation would have Wainwright and, um, pray for blight? I can't come up with a good rhyme there."
Wainwright and pray the power goes out tonight?
We could ask DanUp about how to make it scan a little better….
by nota bene on Sep 23, 2009 2:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
so would it be completely dickish of me to say
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:03 PM EDT reply actions 7 recs
i've never had one of my fanposts linked in the main thread
thanks for the support 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 Sep 23, 2009 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
it rather sums up
that and Goold rather glossed over PJ Walters turning his back on home plate after failing to get the runner at first. 10 million PFPs for little red riding peej, because that run was the difference between the Redbirds winning and extra innings.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm bitter, man. I'm bitter!
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i feel your pain
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and Parise didn't even throw a pitch.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did anyone else think that TLR singling out Parise as the Memphis guy he was particularly excited about next year
was pretty much the wierdest quote heard all year?
Here’s hoping he never has anything to do with talent development in the Cardinals org…
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
File under: Good Moves (Never) Made
Remarkable how not signing Fuentes worked well for us. Imagine the scenario had he joined the Birdos:
- less room to add salary for mid-season acquisitions
- less room to add salary for 2010 – if we had Fuentes would we even be players for Holliday?
- less likely we’d have cheaply signed Miller or The Diner, and subsequently received useful production from them
- poor performance from the closer spot
What’s still disappointing is that management or ownership was seriously considering this move to be a good gamble. Whether it was luck, circumstance, design or just the GOBs at work – I’m glad Fuentes is “Fuenting” for the Halos.
Imerman Angels 1on1 Cancer Support - ask me more if someone you know is fighting cancer.
by airhad on Sep 23, 2009 3:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think most of us here were pretty happy that we didn't sign fuentes
especially for the deal that was mooted. Something like 3yr/20m wouldn’t have been extortionate, I guess, but he was an inconsistent pitcher year-to-year even before this season, and he was never, ever one of the top 10 relievers in baseball. If I’m giving more than 2 years to a relief pitcher, it’d better be someone at least at the Heath Bell level, bare minimum.
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Awesome post!
Nice season reflection – and I agree with you, RB, on the fact that the Duncan-Lugo trade was the best of the season.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 3:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Moz got some skills
Positronic Upgraded Juggernaut Optimized for Logical Sabotage
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Sep 23, 2009 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Topic suggestion: Rating John Mozeliak
Probably getting close to time for an overview or analysis of Mo’s complete history. Wish I had the time to collect and present the info for a fanpost.
Imerman Angels 1on1 Cancer Support - ask me more if someone you know is fighting cancer.
by airhad on Sep 23, 2009 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think there's already one there
for a while now.
by sdrone on Sep 23, 2009 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who's on the mound for the Astros tonight?
’Cause I would love it if we could clinch off of Brian F-ing Moehler.
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:06 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
i think it's Bud
and you know what they say about pitchers named Bud.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bud Smith? Perfect game!
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
or was it a no hitter? I think it was a no-no
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
lol, you even do it with your casual comments
I just think it’s funny.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think ahead sometimes
I mean to say one thing, comes out differently (now fearing a almost-certain TWSS)
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nope - Bud Norris.
There’s good news…
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You think maybe they could bring Moehler in for some middle relief?
I’d feel a lot more confident about the post-season if I knew that a dude like Brian Moehler is capable of shutting down this offense at any given time.
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didn't he destroy us earlier this year?
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 3:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In his first start.
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and hot tubs
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
MAN STEW!
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
a great post, rb
I especially liked this:
this year there is a building, a hum that becomes a buzz that becomes a singing that becomes a ringing that becomes a shout.
I think it’s also worth noting that the FO could easily have been stampeded into giving up on the season early on if a number of things had gone wrong.
Franklin could have come in and genuinely been no good at all.
Maybe Aramis Ramirez doesn’t get hurt and the Cubs build a huge lead by the ASB (before Matthew, Mark, Lugo, and John arrived). Maybe we suffer a bad run of injuries ourselves.
Maybe Carp doesn’t come back. Maybe Pineiro decides he hates Oquendo so much that he doesn’t bother to learn the one-seamer.
Maybe Skip doesn’t improve at 2B. Maybe Ludwick turns into a pumpkin.
All in all, I think at some point in June somebody pointed out to DeWitt: look, you’re getting a career year out of Pujols, Carpenter is back and badder than ever, Franklin, Waino, and Pineiro are going to have dominant years, attendance isn’t down like you thought it was going to be, and nobody else in the Central is going to get anywhere near 90 games. Gotta go for it this year.
by nota bene on Sep 23, 2009 3:09 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Matthew, Mark, Lugo, and John
Priceless.
by Cardaholic on Sep 23, 2009 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
coined last month, btw
I’m not even sure it’s a VEB original.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 5:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe not but the use of it was great.
"There is not a better feeling in the whole world than knowing that you are the best team in both leagues."- Bob Forsh on winning the 1982 World Series.
by MaytheForschbewithyou on Sep 23, 2009 5:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haha
Never thought of that. +1
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
my favorite part of the season!
Matthew, Mark, Lugo, and John.
by BVHeck on Sep 23, 2009 6:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that should be green damnit
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 6:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
On Fuentes
Mo dodged a landmine here. Signing a “proven closer” to an expensive contract is almost never a good idea. It’s such a silly construct in the first place, b/c every proven closer was unproven at some point. Anywho, there is so much volatility in a bullpen that paying a glorified bullpen guy a ton of money is a 6ly dumb allocation of resources.
VivaElBirdos: Celebrating glorious mustaches since 2009
by redbirdnation8206 on Sep 23, 2009 3:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Another thing about closers
Aren’t relief pitchers just about the most volatile talent group when it comes to year-by-year performance? For every Mariano Rivera it seems like there are myriad Brian Fuentes’. I would think that position players would be the most stable, and then starters, who pitch many more innings, giving you a better sample to make predictions with.
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Brad Lidge awesome! Brad Lidge suck! Brad Lidge awesome again! Brad Lidge suck again!
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Pujols combo, make Brad Lidge cry!
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we already had him stunned
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
and by the way, I NEVER get tired of that
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
also, fuentes would have cost us shelby miller.
yikes.
it's Clydesdales vs Goats. Actually sums up Cards vs. Cubs quite nicely. -all4tookie
by SleepyCA on Sep 23, 2009 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What a joke there were people pushing for that
Not afraid to nitpick
by joker24 on Sep 23, 2009 4:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he, yeah
would anyone swap Miller for Fuentes right now, straight up, even if Fuentes was being paid the minimum? I’m not sure I would. Add in the nearly $30m he wanted and it’s becoming a no-brainer…
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was listening to the Cubs/Brewers game on the radio last night
Ron Santo dissed Boog’s stache.
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
anything to not talk about the "baseball" happening in front of him
find me under the fan voices section for the st. louis rams
by stlcardinalsfang on Sep 23, 2009 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Santos disses anything even remotely connected to the Cardinals.
"There is not a better feeling in the whole world than knowing that you are the best team in both leagues."- Bob Forsh on winning the 1982 World Series.
by MaytheForschbewithyou on Sep 23, 2009 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Santo is a Cub through and through
So him hatin on us isn’t a surprise.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Khalil trade still bothers me
I don’t think many of you have noticed how untouchable Luke Gregerson has been this year.
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 3:22 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
and i'd like to continue not noticing thank you very much
find me under the fan voices section for the st. louis rams
by stlcardinalsfang on Sep 23, 2009 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
lalalalalaaaa
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm kind of scared to find out more about him.
Gee, wouldn’t it be nice to bolster our ‘pen with pitchers like Gregerson, or even Perez and Todd?
I mean, I don’t know who you’re talking about and that’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Traded Cardinals pitchers
sure do seem to vanish into the ether a lot, leaving behind no evidence of their former existence. Oh well, I’m sure it’s nothing.
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just imagine if we didn't have Khalil or DeRosa
Replaced with Freese or Craig. Our bullpen would be unstoppable with Gregerson and Perez. It would make us the clear best team in the National League.
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
blah blah blah
you need to stop talking.
but seriously, we would be the odds on favorite to win the world series with that bullpen. but these things happen. mo took some gambles and they didn’t pay off, every team could play this game.
find me under the fan voices section for the st. louis rams
by stlcardinalsfang on Sep 23, 2009 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am not convinced anyone, ever has been "odds-on favourite" for a world series during the regular season
at least since the advent of the playoffs.
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
are you kidding me?
when we play the astros in the NLCS, you’ll be happy we have derosa….he rips shit up at enron 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 Sep 23, 2009 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You plan on having DeRosa in his age 65 season?
Because that’s the next time I can fathom Houston being in the playoffs at all.
"You just keep pounding balls into the gap. The one thing you don’t want to do is hit a home run. That’s a rally-killer." - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Sep 23, 2009 5:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
not notice = blocking from memory
defy, cards, defy. hey logic --- you suck.
by effin fisk on Sep 23, 2009 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
theres still a chance that
he’s only Cla Meredith
Matthew, Mark, Lugo, and John.
by BVHeck on Sep 23, 2009 6:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think giving up...
the 31st and 37th best rated prospects (according to Scout.com) for a gamble that Greene would return to his old self in a new venue was a bad move at all. I think leaving a guy like Perdomo unprotected was a worse move. Worrell was auditioned last year and apparently the coaching staff wasn’t impressed, and Worrell’s attitude about the situation got him a trip out the door. No one could have predicted Gregerson to perform this well.
by Jumsy on Sep 23, 2009 5:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Luke Gregerson is not a real person
Khalil Greene is in the middle of a .372/.494/.694 season with 39 bombs and a +31.2 UZR. Right?
VivaElBirdos: Celebrating glorious mustaches since 2009
by redbirdnation8206 on Sep 23, 2009 8:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am ambivalent about the Greene trade
I think it sort of depends on how we grade out these things, and how retrospective we are. For instance, if we’re going to condemn Mo for trading Gregerson (who’s been way more effective in MLB than his AA performance and scouting reports suggested) for Greene (who turned out to be a headcase), when these things couldn’t really be easily known at the time of the trade, do we not also have to give him wicked props for signing Pineiro to a 2-year $13m contract when he’s been worth closer to $30m over that tenure (and when we all hated that contract in 2007 and 2008)?
To some extent, I feel you can argue that maybe the Pineiro contract still wasn’t a good one (he’s learnt a new skill that he absolutely didn’t have when the deal was brokered) and the Greene trade was probably a fair gamble (as long as you accept the notion that we couldn’t have easily found out about KBot’s mental issues during the due diligence process). But I could go either way (TWSS).
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It really is amazing how our rotation has panned out this year.
Wainwright has become quite the Shootist, has proven he has True Grit, and finally built his masterpiece: The War Wagon.
Carpenter’s career almost died in 2007, but in the third year it rose again.
Piñata somehow evolved into something greater and more terrifying than we ever imagined him:
“Fear me.”
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 3:27 PM EDT reply actions 12 recs
in Soviet Russia
Pinata swings bat at you!
by nota bene on Sep 23, 2009 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
two seconds later, a flood of sinkers dispersed the crowd
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
haha. nice.
"I think those scorers must be from Mars or Venus. Or maybe they're just from that book." --Mike Shannon, 7/09/2009
"POOL TEMPERATURES FUCK YEAH"--tgreenfield, The September 10th-11th VEB Off-Topic Explosion
by andi_k on Sep 23, 2009 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heh. I missed that the first time around.
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
aaaaaand serious.
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
lol that pinata looks pissed.
"How depressing is it being you? Would you equate it to being a lifelong Cubs fan?"
by rocKStark5 on Sep 23, 2009 7:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because I feared the original host would delete it....BAM^2!
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 7:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yo, giant pinata
I’m happy for you, and I’mma let you finish, but this pinata was one of the best giant pinatas of all time!
by saladdays on Sep 23, 2009 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
is that Colby playing the xbox?
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have I started the Kanye West references?
Had two of ’em last night.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sig.
Yo MLBPA, I'm really happy for you, and I'mma let you finish, but Albert is the most ridiculous player of all time. OF ALL TIME!
by vexedtechie on Sep 23, 2009 6:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fear the Pinata?
No way JoEl!
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Superman movie that was never made
Tim Burton directing and Nicolas Cage as Superman
We were saved the day this was canceled.
P.S
The new Superman movie that just game out is pretty good
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 3:30 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
It is not a Photoshop
That is actually him
Ha
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's pretty sad
If Nick Cage in real life looks like a bad Photoshop of Nick Cage.
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
2nd'd
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
New Superman movie?
Are you talking about Superman Returns?
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Looks great.
But most everything Bruce Timm is involved with does and is.
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Huh. Hadn't heard of that one.
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone heard the band Lightning Dust?
Just downloaded their latest album. It’s good.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Q6CAcrARks
"Of course Kolby Rasmus was going deep! That’s what Kolby Rasmus does! You don’t give Kolby Rasmus second chances!" -Kolby Rasmus
by hazel on Sep 23, 2009 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No, but
I’ll give them a listen. I’m not a big Black Mountain fan (I take it Lightning Dust are members of that band), but maybe this is their chance to show they’ve got better ideas about music than those domineering jerks who won’t let them play their songs or even give them a frickin’ chance. Maybe.
(I really will listen. Always interested in a rec. Thanks.)
by Youneverknow on Sep 23, 2009 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am less afraid of Phillies in a 7 game series
I think we are just a deeper team. We will never see the Phillies in a 5 game series so that helps a lot in my worries about the playoffs.
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I bet every other team fears the Cardinals above all others
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
guarantee that
nobody wants to deal with Carp, Waino, and Jo-el in the postseason. Then knowing your pitchers have to struggle with Pujols and Holliday four times a game.
by nota bene on Sep 23, 2009 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
God...
This inspired me to check out other SBN blogs to see if we had other teams shaking in their boots, and I find this gem right on the the Phillies’ front page:
“Eyre, whose problem is a “loose body” in his left (pitching) elbow, is as healthy as he’ll get until offseason surgery; the question is whether he’ll be able to snap off sliders with enough bite to be effective against dangerous lefty hitters like Todd Helton, Brad Hawpe, Andre Ethier and Rick Ankiel."
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We need to feed this...
Can we hide the glossary definition of Cykiel for awhile?
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am confident the cykiel is buried so deep
that anyone who doesn’t know about Rick Ankiel would tl;dr by Carpenter’s entry.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We need to hype this up
Convince them they’re better off just pitching to Pujols, Holliday, and Ludwick as much as they possibly can, rather than deal with the dreaded Rick Ankiel.
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Ankiel Our..
…Achillies Ankle??
;=8)
Big McLargehuge!
:=8O
by The MooCow on Sep 23, 2009 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ankielles Heel?
"Of course Kolby Rasmus was going deep! That’s what Kolby Rasmus does! You don’t give Kolby Rasmus second chances!" -Kolby Rasmus
by hazel on Sep 23, 2009 5:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's like a very simplistic logic question.
Which of these is unlike the others?
A) Todd Helton
B) Brad Hawpe
C) Andre Ethier
D) Rick Ankiel
"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 Sep 23, 2009 3:50 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
The answer is obvious
Andre Ethier is the only player who doesn’t have four letters in his first name.
"You just keep pounding balls into the gap. The one thing you don’t want to do is hit a home run. That’s a rally-killer." - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Sep 23, 2009 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Hawpe doesn't have 6 letters in his last name,
but Helton, Ankiel, and Ethier do.
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hmmm
http://www.thekatespanos.com/scrabble-score-calculator/
Todd Helton and Andre Ethier each get a 15 word score.
Brad Hawpe gets a 20 word score.
Rick Ankiel gets a 20 word score, but a double word score is clearly 40, so Rick Ankiel wins.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's something a bit more sensible
I love reading this sort of thing:
…and that’s just fine with me. Be careful what you wish for and all that, but I’ll tell you one thing…
I do NOT want to face the Cardinals in the opening round.
Carpenter and Wainwright are just plain scary in a short series, and their heavily right-handed lineup is a bad matchup for our heavily left-handed rotation. I know the Dodgers’ lineup is right-leaning as well, but I just don’t think it’s as scary as the Cards’, and while Billingsley/Kershaw is nothing to sneeze at, it doesn’t even come close to Carpenter/Wainwright.
by PhillyFriar on Sep 13, 2009 4:17 PM CDT
by Andyfantastic on Sep 23, 2009 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's always a good feeling when other teams' fans think we're good.
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, so we don't want to face the Phillies. The Phillies don't want to face us.
Why don’t we just make a deal with them so we avoid each other until the NLCS?
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ank - dangerous?
Nah.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shows what you know...
QWxiZXJ0IFB1am9scyBpcyByaWRpY3Vsb3Vz
by vexedtechie on Sep 23, 2009 5:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let me guess... nothing?
(Now fearing repercussions of saying that)
Just go ahead and say yes, dammit.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes, dammit?
QWxiZXJ0IFB1am9scyBpcyByaWRpY3Vsb3Vz
by vexedtechie on Sep 23, 2009 5:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was thinking that you guys
would say “yes” to my question, alluding to the fact that I knew nothing.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
MY slider is good enough to be effective against Rick Ankiel
I am right handed and have never thrown a slider.
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Positronic Upgraded Juggernaut Optimized for Logical Sabotage
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Sep 23, 2009 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Burwell and Paris Show
I was channel hoping in my car and came across the Burwell and Paris show. Pat Paris kept talking about the Magic Number not actually being 2 but 1 because if they win 1 game then the best the Cubs can do is tie and since we have the winning record against the Flubs in the regular season, we win the tiebreaker. When did this become football? What ever happened to the one game tie breaker to see who goes to the playoffs? Why does it drive me crazy when a guy who is paid to work in sports does not have a clue to the rules of sports? The only thing our winning record against the Cubs would assure us is the home field advantage in the one game playoff.
Thanks for letting me rant about this worthless topic. Sorry for have wasted all your time. I needed to vent. Please carry on.
by Green Man! on Sep 23, 2009 4:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
don't let it happen again
Lighten up, Francis - Sergeant Hulka
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
by mattyfrommo on Sep 23, 2009 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
not to mention
we have almost an entire football season’s worth of games yet to play….
by nota bene on Sep 23, 2009 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stopping to listen to Paris and Burwell
shall henceforth be known as Mistake Number One.
Seriously, the only thing worse than their show is the show on right after. Just awful.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
tiebreaker
he is referring to is either 1) for home field advantage in a one game playoff or 2) one team will win the division crown and one will be the wild card.
At he was correct that the season series is used as a tiebreaker and didn’t start talking about a coin flip for the post season berth.
by ubeddie on Sep 23, 2009 6:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
this just in!
Holliday’s hot stick sparking rest of Cards
That’s a real headline from the Mothership.
I wish I had thought of that….
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Man Stew has run amok
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was about to write this sentence
something about if man stew gets us deep into the playoffs, and how we wouldn’t care how they do it…
and then I thought better of it.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
bromance ftw.
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unsee, unsee, unsee
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll never get that minute back. Thanks.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh my fucking god.
That is seriously the creepiest thing I think I’ve ever seen. Jesus Christ.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are more. With him as different animals. I don’t understand.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 4:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I saw there were a bunch of others that looked roughly like the same thing,
but I was much too frightened to click on any of them. Instead, I simply closed my browser and went to spray windex in my eyes. Gah.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think this guy sums it up appropriately on Youtube
“This fetish is full of win and equally full of fail. "
by saladdays on Sep 23, 2009 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
the worst part is that i hear children in the background
i would move out of the neighborhood if i new one of my neighbors was like that
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
People in the comments section are congratulating him on good work as always. It has a 3.5 star rating. What is going on?
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 4:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's a big scary world out there.
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Furries, man.
Seriously.
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 5:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
NO.
Furries are those cool people who wear bunny heads at Flaming Lips shows. Them I can deal with.
That is.. something else entirely.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You ever see that Entrourage were Drama dresses up as a Furrie to get laid?
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 5:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've never seen an episode of Entourage.
Everyone tells me I need to see it, and I reallyreally like Jeremy Pivens, but I’ve somehow just never watched it.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is crazy
I have an extra copy of Entourage I might just have to ship to you
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heh.
I know, it’s really odd.
Actually, I’m the same with Lost. Never have watched an entire episode. Didn’t get into it when it started, then tried to watch it, no idea what was going on, and resolved to just wait until the whole thing is out on DVD then watch it all at once.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve never seen either of these shows.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have only 3 shows I watch on some kind of regular basis
Entourage, Lost, and Chuck
I literally watch zero TV besides that and sports.
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m the same except it’s HIMYM, ANTM, Glee, and The Office.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Resuce me, Its always sunny
thats it for me
by RedJoker on Sep 23, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought you were telling me to rescue you because it’s always sunny.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 5:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
now that i read it
that was pretty bad
by RedJoker on Sep 23, 2009 5:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wasn’t really sure how I was supposed to rescue you.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 5:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sunblock.
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Best show on cable television. (FX)
"Obviously, tipping pitches didn't help" - John Smotzl
"If you disrespect the Baseball Gods, you'll get slapped." - TLR
by RiverRat on Sep 23, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dude...eat my boogers.
QWxiZXJ0IFB1am9scyBpcyByaWRpY3Vsb3Vz
by vexedtechie on Sep 23, 2009 5:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll have to check that out
I just got caught up on Sons of Anarchy a few weeks ago before the new season started, and it is pretty fantastic IMO. I think I remember Azru talking that show up months ago. I just never made the time to check it out until last month when they were pumping out a season one marathon on a rainy night. Now I’m hooked.
So let this be a lesson. Always listen to Azru.
by Merry CRasmus on Sep 23, 2009 6:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The great thing about Sunny
is that you didn’t have to see them all to get the show. You should do everything you can to see all of the episodes, but I suggest to all that you start tomorrow night.
"Obviously, tipping pitches didn't help" - John Smotzl
"If you disrespect the Baseball Gods, you'll get slapped." - TLR
by RiverRat on Sep 23, 2009 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
SOA is one 6ly kick-ass show.
"There is not a better feeling in the whole world than knowing that you are the best team in both leagues."- Bob Forsh on winning the 1982 World Series.
by MaytheForschbewithyou on Sep 23, 2009 6:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE SOA
sunny, not at all
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 6:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Lost is finally coming to an end
I hated the last season finale. But I am already pot committed and must finish out the show
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's awful now.
Used to be good, though.
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 5:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think it is Awful
I think it is still doing solid this season
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 5:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My wife and I gave up after last weeks
it’s just a waste of half an hour now. there has been maybe five minutes of plot development this season.
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 5:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Their has never been any plot development
It is about 4 guys from NY living in LA
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 5:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, stuff actually used to happen.
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 5:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's the whole 12yr old gf of E's
she’s killed that season. i fucking hate that bitch. vince has been a none issue so far, and that’s OK, he’s really not the star. but they focused way to much on E & that bitch. there’s no fucking way any man would chose that crazy ass bitch over Sloan. no fucking way. Drama’s story has been good, especially 2 shows ago, and Arie’s too. his friend at work has not, except the parts with his wife & Arie’s wife. Turtle’s & Meadow’s stuff is just stupid. i can’t fucking believe they are really dating. i had a better chance of bedding Adriana Lima than that assclown hooking up with Meadow, only he really fucking did. just kill me now because it’s not worth it anymore if that asshat can get her, and i get jack.
otherwise it’s been good. not great, not bad, but good. at least it’s a hell of a lot better than the first half of last season. Red i would say netflix the entire series, but skip the first 5 or 6 episodes of last season. you can 6ly not even watch them & start up in the middle of the season & not skip a beat.
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 6:19 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
WTF indeed.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
actual breaking news ... Bobby Cox has decided on his retirement date
http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/bobby-cox-retiring-after-145108.html
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:40 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
must have changed his mind, eh?
that link is broken
Lighten up, Francis - Sergeant Hulka
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
by mattyfrommo on Sep 23, 2009 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that was fast!
let’s see….
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hello, this is a MUCH shorter story than the one they put up.
http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/braves-cox-to-manage-145112.html
There was more stuff in there like the history plus the whole managing staff is returning.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the first story I’m pretty sure they repeated a quote.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, but it was easily 3x longer.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah I just thought that was funny.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The first story got tossed
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alright boys and girls...
…it’s been about a week since I’ve done anything on these forums. lol…
…anyone need any photoshopping done? And who’s this RasmusGirl? Is it the legit “Geiger”?! Would this explain the jabbing at the “minors” in the last game thread?
It’s amazing how much you miss out on when you go computer-limited for half a week.
QWxiZXJ0IFB1am9scyBpcyByaWRpY3Vsb3Vz
by vexedtechie on Sep 23, 2009 4:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think she’s legit. Some people choose to still be skeptical but it’s been checked otu and it seems real.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 4:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't even try to follow the minutiae of the interactions on here anymore
I just try and pick up what I can here and there
Positronic Upgraded Juggernaut Optimized for Logical Sabotage
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Sep 23, 2009 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
HL's gone too
i get the feeling i’ve ruined VEB for so many. no wonder i can’t sleep at night
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 6:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did HL just pack his bags and walk or what?
"There is not a better feeling in the whole world than knowing that you are the best team in both leagues."- Bob Forsh on winning the 1982 World Series.
by MaytheForschbewithyou on Sep 23, 2009 6:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he's protesting trading away the farm system this season.
And not following the team too closely. That’s what I gathered from his last posts.
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 6:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, I didn't think he was really gonna do it...just venting, ya know?
"There is not a better feeling in the whole world than knowing that you are the best team in both leagues."- Bob Forsh on winning the 1982 World Series.
by MaytheForschbewithyou on Sep 23, 2009 6:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well it looks like he's really doing it
it sucks, he brought so much to the board.
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 6:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sucks indeed
And not in a Franklinish way either.
"There is not a better feeling in the whole world than knowing that you are the best team in both leagues."- Bob Forsh on winning the 1982 World Series.
by MaytheForschbewithyou on Sep 23, 2009 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
aw, man.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 6:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he went away last year too, over something
about this time, I think.
It is really, really impossible to keep up with the insane game threads these days, though.
it's Clydesdales vs Goats. Actually sums up Cards vs. Cubs quite nicely. -all4tookie
by SleepyCA on Sep 23, 2009 7:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Really?
Didn’t both our AA and AAA teams make the playoffs this year? I understand that our farm system would be better with Wallace, Todd, etc… But I don’t think we traded it away. We even restocked it with Miller and Mateo.
by Evilfrog on Sep 23, 2009 6:49 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
(sniff...) Mateo...
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Funny you mention HL being gone
I never noticed, but now that I think of that, haven’t seen HL in a while. Really too bad to see him gone, because he brought a lot of energy to the board. Come back HL!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mooonutiae???
;=8)
Big McLargehuge!
:=8O
by The MooCow on Sep 23, 2009 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
all you have to know is "man stew"
I have yet to add it to the glossary.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Man Stew being the DP Practice?
FJM. Now.
QWxiZXJ0IFB1am9scyBpcyByaWRpY3Vsb3Vz
by vexedtechie on Sep 23, 2009 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Joe Morgan actually holds a U.S. patent
It’s called “A Method for Throwing a Base Ball to Second Base Using One’s Left Ear”
Albert Pujols does not have "down" years. He has "~6 WAR" years.
by mattybobo on Sep 23, 2009 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
nooooo no, we are not going with the effin' JM definition.
hence the need to know the actual Cardinals… approved definition.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do explain?
QWxiZXJ0IFB1am9scyBpcyByaWRpY3Vsb3Vz
by vexedtechie on Sep 23, 2009 5:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
VEB explains!
http://www.vivaelbirdos.com/2009/9/19/1038081/2-walkoffs-in-a-row-postgame-thread#21489930
It has been used in many, many ways since then. (If you’re looking for a photoshop opportunity, the lego one last night hit a chord.)
But the original gist is this:
Cardinals infielders Brendan Ryan and Mark DeRosa had just settled in Saturday for their daily "man stew" — the nickname for an afternoon dip in the hot tub — when the call came to take groundballs.
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 6:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You missed out on the man stew recipe.
It’s nothing like hasenpfeffer.
"Of course Kolby Rasmus was going deep! That’s what Kolby Rasmus does! You don’t give Kolby Rasmus second chances!" -Kolby Rasmus
by hazel on Sep 23, 2009 5:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
can we get a cariacature of boog and rose in a hot tub?
bonus points if there’s a hugging albert in there
I'm like a polygon, I'm edgy.
by slu on Sep 23, 2009 7:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and Holliday and his seeds
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 7:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lovely, well-written post.
"I think those scorers must be from Mars or Venus. Or maybe they're just from that book." --Mike Shannon, 7/09/2009
"POOL TEMPERATURES FUCK YEAH"--tgreenfield, The September 10th-11th VEB Off-Topic Explosion
by andi_k on Sep 23, 2009 4:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Ludwick may sitwick
according to mothership
"It was like two ankles." AVENGE BOOG
"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 Sep 23, 2009 5:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Ryan sits, per P-D online
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 5:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
From Goold:
CARDINALS
Schumaker, 2B
Rasmus, CF
Pujols, 1B
Holliday, LF
Ludwick, RF
DeRosa, 3B
Molina, C
Lugo, SS
Smoltz, P
HOUSTON
Bourn, CF
Tejada, SS
Berkman, 1B
Lee, LF
Blum, 3B
Pence, RF
Matsui, 2B
Towles, C
Norris, P
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 5:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
what is wrong with boog?
to much video gaming?
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What is it with Tony hatin' on Colby and Brendan?
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
colby beat brendan at halo
so colby starts and brendan watches
by BirdsonFire on Sep 23, 2009 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's a clinchin' lineup right there
"You just keep pounding balls into the gap. The one thing you don’t want to do is hit a home run. That’s a rally-killer." - Jeff Francouer
by jd is legend on Sep 23, 2009 5:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Except in Milwaukee
It’s still Samardjiza vs Narveson
And the Brewers are still the Brewers.
Run Vince run! There's a tarp chasing you! Run! It's right behind you!
by TBender on Sep 23, 2009 5:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So... it's a bullpen game...
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 5:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I still like our chances to clinch tonight
by bailorg on Sep 23, 2009 5:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As do I
But I’m not gonna say anything more – and I think you all know why.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why is everyone under the assumption that the MN is 2?
As the Cardinals own the H2H tiebreak over the Cubs by virtue of winning the season series, the Magic Number is really Ozzie.
by olddomination on Sep 23, 2009 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It doesn't work like that...
There would be a one-game playoff. That scenario would only apply if the Cubs were going to win the Wild Card.
V, b.
by LukeMP1186 on Sep 23, 2009 6:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Samardzija will "pitch" his way to us going down one magic number
Not afraid to nitpick
by joker24 on Sep 23, 2009 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not the Phillies, the Rockies
If I’m not mistaken, the team with the best record plays the wild card team in the playoffs. If the Dodgers have the best record, they can’t play the Rockies because they are both in the same division. So, the Dodgers would then play the Phillies, assuming that the Phillies end up with a worse record than the Cardinals. The Cardinals would then play the Rockies against whom they have not done that well. Remember the 4 game sweep in St. Lou in June? There are 3 games with them this weekend in CO which may tell us something since we now have a different team than we had in June. I would much rather be playing the Dodgers in the first round than the Rockies.
by treborsgonecruising on Sep 23, 2009 5:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ugh
I don’t want to play the rockies
Positronic Upgraded Juggernaut Optimized for Logical Sabotage
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Sep 23, 2009 7:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If we play the Dodgers in the NLDS...
You’re without homefield advantage throughout the entire playoffs, barring the Rockies upsetting the Phillies.
Not only that, you likely have to beat both the Dodgers and Phillies to get the World Series, instead of the Rockies and one of the two.
The Rockies made their run at the Dodgers, and the Dodgers are still in 1st place. I realize we’ve played the Dodgers very well, but I don’t understand this seemingly widespread desire to play the Dodgers without homefield advantage rather than the Rockies WITH homefield advantage.
The Dodgers are better than the Rockies.
V, b.
by LukeMP1186 on Sep 23, 2009 5:26 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think their is just a certain confidence against the Dodgers
Like they are our bitch
by FlimtotheFlam on Sep 23, 2009 5:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But that's a farce...
We went 5-2 with the Dodgers, and three of those wins were by one run. Are the Cardinals better than the Dodgers? Sure, I think so.
But would I rather play games 1, 2, and 5 at Dodger Stadium against the Dodgers? Or at Busch Stadium against the Rockies?
That’s an easy answer for me.
V, b.
by LukeMP1186 on Sep 23, 2009 5:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, um hypothetically ...
If you had tickets to the first or second home games and would only be able to go if it actually happened on the weekend, you might selfishly hope for that situation.
by dontEATnachos on Sep 23, 2009 5:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather it be at dodger stadium
for obvious reasons. Though of course I’d rather it be a 7 game series at dodger stadium…
it's Clydesdales vs Goats. Actually sums up Cards vs. Cubs quite nicely. -all4tookie
by SleepyCA on Sep 23, 2009 7:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes, we need to get tix for the VEB section
and if they play the angels in the WS as well
by FunkeeC on Sep 23, 2009 7:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great post RB
Nice summary of the season.
by itaintbraggin on Sep 23, 2009 5:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
OT: My time at an anti-jinx therapy session (the start, anyway)
Doc: Hello all, and welcome to the session. My name is Dr. Fredbird, and I would like you to welcome Joel. Joel, tell us your story.
Me: Hi guys. I’m Joel, my favorite number is 8, my nickname is Zoom Zoom, and I’m known as the jinxer on Viva El Birdos.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 5:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
...
Doc: What have you done?
Me: I accidentally caused a walkoff last weekend, the Memphis Redbirds lost the AAA title game thanks to me, the people on VEB pretty much hate me, and I just can’t help to jinx. I don’t mean to, but I just can’t help it. Thoughts pop in my head, I post them, and right away, I know that I doomed the team.
The only thing that would make this game better is a walkoff! - said in walkoff situations since 9/19/09
WALKOFFZ R MOAR FUNN! - used after walkoffs since 9/19/09
Cards: Don't sign Rick "Rallykill" Ankiel next year please!
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kill yourself...
Problem solved.
V, b.
by LukeMP1186 on Sep 23, 2009 6:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But you'll be happy to know
that I am considering leaving here after the season.
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't care either way...
I was just kidding. I’m not even aware of your propensity to jinx.
V, b.
by LukeMP1186 on Sep 23, 2009 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, if you were on the boards recently
You’d know that I’ve done it several times.
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
now why would you want to do that?
That’s crazy talk zoom
Lighten up, Francis - Sergeant Hulka
* sarcasm might be involved in this comment
by mattyfrommo on Sep 23, 2009 6:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Personal reasons
But I’m still gonna be a diehard Cards fan whether I’m here or not
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
show me where he touched you
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 6:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really didn't wanna laugh at that,
but I couldn’t help myself.
f’ing gdm
"There is not a better feeling in the whole world than knowing that you are the best team in both leagues."- Bob Forsh on winning the 1982 World Series.
by MaytheForschbewithyou on Sep 23, 2009 6:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just throwing it out there...
V, b.
by LukeMP1186 on Sep 23, 2009 6:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t hate you.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 7:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
you don't hate anyone
you’re filled with lollipops & rainbows
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 7:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and Whiskers on kettles.
And warm kittens tied up with string.
Felonius Monk - bitching to contact since 2008
by Felonius_Monk on Sep 24, 2009 5:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So the Yankees' trainer wears baseball pants with his polo...
He looks ridiculous.
V, b.
by LukeMP1186 on Sep 23, 2009 6:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not as ridiculous as he would look with the shirt that matches the pants.
Who needs affection when you can have blind hatred?
by ClemsonGirl on Sep 23, 2009 7:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Franklin Comes Alive!
RB, while skimming the comments, I didn’t see anyone give you credit for what you did there. Bravo, good sir, bravo —
I once shot a man just to see him die...then I got distracted and missed it.
by TheDuke32 on Sep 23, 2009 6:11 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That was a little scary
and awkward
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's the joke, zoomzoom!
I don’t know if you’ve seen Arrested Development, but…
…well, you should.
“You’ve ruined the act, GOB.”
I once shot a man just to see him die...then I got distracted and missed it.
by TheDuke32 on Sep 23, 2009 6:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nope, haven't seen it
Might not want to after hearing that.
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
missing out
Arrested Development is a modern day classic
by dontEATnachos on Sep 23, 2009 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
awesome, awesome job Red
6ly, this is easily one of your top 5 articles you’ve evar written here. dare i say, it’s brilliant.
pretzels pretzels pretzels pretzels
by gdm426 on Sep 23, 2009 6:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree with gdm
It’s awesome man. Couldn’t have written it better myself.
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks to all for the kind words.
Sure is awful sweet of you guys to make me feel good.
I cut the sleeves off because it looks awesome. Now get your head in the game!
by the red baron on Sep 23, 2009 6:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No problem
You’re a one of a kind legend (at least, when it comes to something like this)
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 6:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, well, you have a stupid haircut.
/buzz killington
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 6:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You should also feel good about this
On Twitter, one of the Cards’ followes said that VEB had one of the best regular season recaps he’s ever read.
by zoomzoomj88 on Sep 23, 2009 7:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
(that's what she said)
"How depressing is it being you? Would you equate it to being a lifelong Cubs fan?"
by rocKStark5 on Sep 23, 2009 7:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
you do a good job
Positronic Upgraded Juggernaut Optimized for Logical Sabotage
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Sep 23, 2009 7:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes Boog!
Ryan, the lone holdover from the ’stache-birds (a trend that bit the razor when they last visited here in Houston), has decided to curl up the ends of his mustache. Far from Rollie Fingers, he’s starting to get some silent-movie upturn on the pointed ends of his ’stache.
"In 2035, 25 young men will be able to call themselves world champions. Some of those guys haven’t even been born yet. And some of them are Asian." -Mike Shannon
by Alxfritz on Sep 23, 2009 7:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
awesome
Positronic Upgraded Juggernaut Optimized for Logical Sabotage
by Cards Fan in Chitown on Sep 23, 2009 7:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
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