Wednesday Bird Droppings

The Twins still get home field for their playoff

It’ll just be on Tuesday, not Monday. This might mean they have to play on back-to-back days if the Yankees choose to start their series on Wednesday. Playing two baseball games in a row is hardly an outrage.

by pipkin on Sep 23, 2009 7:43 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

But MLB is all like "We got contract rights!"

And the NFL is all like, “So? We’re playing football that night. I dare you to move us.”

I found it interesting, that’s all.

Jim Palmer: "I said to Nolan, 'Why do you run every ball out like that?' and he said, 'Why wouldn’t you?' "

by duck on Sep 23, 2009 8:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, it's certainly proof that the NFL really is king

And also that the NFL is overbearing, as usual.

It’s too bad I like football so much. The NFL is pretty evil, and Goodell is way worse than Herr Bud.

by pipkin on Sep 23, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They are like

Snakehead fish, Disney & the Borg.

They consume EVERYTHING.

You can't fix stupid. Stupid is forever.

by sluggo 2.0 on Sep 23, 2009 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i am pocohantus of borg...

by pipkin on Sep 23, 2009 10:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anyone listening to XM 175 in the morning?

They’re doing trivia to give away World Series tickets. I find myself knowing pretty much every single answer to the first question and I get so annoyed at the people who don’t know. Dude, if you don’t know that Randy Johnson got his 300th win this year maybe you shouldn’t be calling into a baseball trivia contest. The second round, post-season before 2000, gets me almost every time though. If they’re from the 90s or 80s I can at least make an educated guess, but before that and I’m almost always clueless.

Earl Weaver would’ve kissed Adam Dunn on the mouth in public. - SC 08/11/08

by Stacey on Sep 23, 2009 9:16 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Now THAT is an open thread lead in!

“Player 2 has entered the game”
“Haven’t you got open thread”
“Player 2 has left the game”

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 9:18 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

+1 for shaun of the dead

speaking of that, thoughts on the new movie Zombieland? I have heard good things ie its gonna be an american rival to shaun

Hating the New York Yankees is as American as apple pie, unwed mothers and cheating on your income tax ~ Mike Royko

by Graham71681 on Sep 23, 2009 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think

that I’m extremely pumped for it, thats what I think. Woody Harelson + Zombies can only = win. I havent seen an actual good zombie movie in theaters since, well, Shaun. Diary of the Dead let me down mightily, so I’m looking to Zombieland to rectify that.

And btw, as far as an American answer to Shaun, the slosest ive seen is Fido and maybe Dead and Breakfast. Fido is great, Dead and Breakfast was better than expected. Nothing beats Shaun tho.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree about both

Fido is a heartwarming tale about a boy and his pet zombie(which made me wonder if I should really see it) but was so good

Dead and Breakfast was super campy and the music in it was stange but funny and worked for the move but both are no Shaun of the Dead, another I liked but was also no shaun was idle hands

Hating the New York Yankees is as American as apple pie, unwed mothers and cheating on your income tax ~ Mike Royko

by Graham71681 on Sep 23, 2009 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

For campy gore

I highly recommend Cannibal! the Musical. not exactly zombies, but close enough.

by kba26 on Sep 23, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cannibal! was really good

a lovely musical. The South Park guys really have made some good stuff.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I forgot about Idle Hands

that was quite funny. I havent seen that in a looong time though. Dead Alive is still the most awesome over the top gore/zombie movie ever. Its hilarious.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think we've talked about this before

but my favorite part of Dead Alive and Meet the Feebles is just thinking that someone must have watched these movies and felt comfortable about letting him direct Lord of the Rings.

by kba26 on Sep 23, 2009 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd let him direct anything he wanted after that

I mean, c’mon. Its genius. LOTR could have used more zombies and gore.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I also loved the Sumatran rat-monkey reference in King Kong, i think i was the only person in the theater that laughed.

by kba26 on Sep 23, 2009 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

agreed

that was awesome. apparently it was filmed on the same island as well.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anybody seen

Edgar Wright, Nick Frost, and Simon Pegg’s brilliant television show Spaced. Tons of good stuff in there. Really, really, very funny.

“Oh Brian, you came!”

“Nope. Just spilled my open thread.”

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I gave it a shot

had a hard time getting into it. Like it was clearly something i should find funny, but something just wasn’t working for me.

by kba26 on Sep 23, 2009 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

My fave tv show of all time

hands down. no discussion. Every time I hear the theme to The A Team, a smile comes across my face.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 11:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was quite proud of myself for this one.

Jim Palmer: "I said to Nolan, 'Why do you run every ball out like that?' and he said, 'Why wouldn’t you?' "

by duck on Sep 23, 2009 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Any non-zombie talk going on around here today?

Baez/Johnson’s stock has really plummeted going into next season eh?

Can anyone name what they think would be a solid bullpen next year.

I still see JJ being the set-up man and possibly Kam being the closer, but Im about sick of Chris Ray, Albers, Bass.

I really like the kid Perrault at Norfolk and I guess Koji will be back and perhaps David Hernandez will be out there. I guess our bullpen approach for next year has been shaken somewhat by the latest putrid performances of alot of those guys.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 12:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I'll play Build That Bullpen

I’m guessing that the opening day pen includes:

Koji, JJ, Kam the Almighty, Hernandez, Hendrickson

There will probably be these guys in camp trying to make it:

Ray, Albers, Perrault, Lebron, Perez, Sarfate, Berken, Castillo, Meredith

I expect these guys to be removed from the 40 man and waived:

Bass, Henn, McCrory, Waters

I’m pretty much against signing a free agent closer like Billy Wagner. It’s just almost never money well-spent. But I can see the Orioles doing it after the nightmare that’s been post-Georgie Birdland. So, my first guess at the bullpen next is:

Uehara closer, JJ, Kam, Hernandez, Hendrickson, Meredith, Ray

I guess that’s an upgrade between Kam, Koji, and Hernandez.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nothing like an 86 mph closer to get you pumped about next year!

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think you're just kidding around

but…

it’s 2009. Don’t we know that pitch velocity is not indicative of pitching ability yet?

I’ll take Koji Uehara or Tim Wakefield over Kyle Farnsworth every single day of the week.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm only sort of kidding around.

Velocity is definitely not indicative of pitching ability, but in the major leagues RHPs who throw under 90 and are effective are few and far between. So, no I don’t really want one of them as our closer. And Tim Wakefield really shouldn’t be in the discussion even as a comp for obvious reasons.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fair enough

But Koji certainly has shown a good ability to get guys out so long as he can stay healthy (so far). We could definitely do a lot worse.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Eh

We could definitely do a lot worse. I’m still not pumped about the thought of him being the closer. I would have liked to see him pitch a little more – it always seemed like a little bit of a fluke that he was getting guys out.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's definitely a thing we'd need to see more of

but his splitter sure looked major league quality to me

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah that's true. And he doesn't walk guys which is huge in the 9th.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i still wouldnt want him at my closer.

by twistedlogic on Sep 23, 2009 4:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

JJ has sucked lately but he might just be having a rough stretch. Let’s not anoint Kam the Almighty as the closer yet.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You don’t think he’s sucked because he was moved to closer?

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh hell no. That psychological stuff about the 9th inning being different is bunk… well, mostly bunk. I do think it’s possible for someone to find the 9th inning intimidating and thus choke. But 1) it’s WAY to early to say if JJ’s one of them and 2) I think these guys are in the minority. And even if JJ’s a choker in the 9th, he can acclimate himself to the role with experience. I think the more likely explanation is that JJ is having a rough patch. It happens to everyone.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmm. I'll just have to say that I disagree completely that it's bunk and leave it at that.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s just speculation on my part. Choking is a psychological disposition. There’s no way to prove it one way or other. But mostly I see the “9th inning is different” jazz as the same ole baseball myths/crap as “his leadership is indispensable” (e.g., jeter) or “he was the most feared hitter” (e.g., jim rice). It’s garbage that people bring up because they know it can’t be contested.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But the 9th inning ACTUALLY is different in that if you get through it unscathed you win the game and if you don’t you often lose the game (on the road particularly). That alone is dramatically different than the 7th or 8th inning.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But the 9th inning ACTUALLY is different in that if you get through it unscathed you win the game and if you don’t you often lose the game (on the road particularly).

We’re going to have to agree to disagree. Again, this falls into the whole “his leadership is indispensable” jazz. It’s still baseball in the 9th or 8th.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't understand you're disagreement

If you’re the closer and you come into a game on the road in the 9th inning and blow the save, is the game over or not? Unless there are some rules that I’m not aware of the answer to that question makes the 9th inning VERY different than the 7th or 8th.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you’re the closer and you come into a game on the road in the 9th inning and blow the save, is the game over or not?

Yes, that is correct. If you blow a save in the 9th, the game is over.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Right...

that is what I was saying. And then you said you disagreed…

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I disagree with the notion JJ can’t handle the 9th inning because of some intangible like it’s “special”.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Then why did his stats go to the gutter when he took over that role.

The stats aren’t “intangible” they are quite “tangible”

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He’s just having a bad run? It happens to everyone.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So you attribute him blowing all these games as the closer to.....

….. coincedence?

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure.

Oh shit., I’ve really struck a nerve here. But yeah, I think this stuff about “makeup” and the 9th inning as almost as bad as “team chemistry”, another crappy baseball myth.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ok....

Ill agree to disagree here. If you think everything is purely x’s and o’s I dont believe it at all. There is most certainly many forms of psychology in sports. Why do you think the Os suck so bad every September. Because its hard to get pumped up and motivated when you are the footstool for the entire division.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think the tough schedule in Sept is a more likely and powerful explanation. The lack of motivation may be part of it but I don’t like it’s a huge part of the equation.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well I wasn't suggesting that to be the case.

I was just saying that the 9th inning is very much different from the 7th or the 8th. Whether it’s the pressure of the situation or not that’s making JJ bad at it is pretty much impossible to say. But there are obviously some pitchers who are comfortable in that situation and some who are not. Not sure if it’s psychological or what.

Psychological comfort is not nearly as ridiculous as talking about Jeter’s “intangibles” or whatever though. I know I was much more comfortable as a starting pitcher than a relief pitcher and that comfort level translated to results on the pitching mound. The way you prepare for a game is completely different as a starter, a middle reliever, or a closer – those different situations don’t work for everybody.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't see how

what I describe above (a factual outcome of a particular inning in a baseball game) is AT ALL comparable to “his leadership is indispensiable”…

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Because you’re attributing that outcome to a psychological disposition.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Where exactly do I say that?

I just said that the 9th inning IS completely different from the 7th or 8th innings.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh ok, yeah sure, I agree then. 9th is different from the 8th.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think trying to measure something as intangible as "leadership"

is different than acknowledging that trying to get a save in the 9th inning is a very high-pressure endeavor that some people cannot handle.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And why can’t they handle it? I think the common reason is that they’re a choker. I usually don’t buy that explanation.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Might not be a choker.

But see above – there’s a different preparation for each role and maybe he’s not comfortable with this one.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure, maybe… you use the word “comfortable”, again an unobservable psychological disposition.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So can we not talk about it because it can’t be proved? Knowing exactly when you are going to pitch, having as much time as you want to warm up, starting an inning fresh with no baserunners, being able to throw from the windup to start are VERY real differences between his current role and his old role. I really don’t think you can say “baseball is baseball” 7th, 8th, or 9th inning.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So can we not talk about it because it can’t be proved?

No we can certainly talk about. I don’t want to censure anybody or topic.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But what about the poise?

Just ask Dempsey. The O’s lead the league in poise. If they put poise on the scoreboard We’d Win every game! JJ may have fucked up, but he fucked up withpoise. Just like Berken. I buy tickets for all the Berken starts, because I just love watching him out-poise his opponents.

You don't EVEN KNOW who O's21girl is!

by Senatorrosewater on Sep 23, 2009 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Choking is not just psychological

It’s physiological as well.

It’s rooted in psychology, sure. But a person who is “psyched out” or “scared of” the 9th inning to the point where he “chokes” will also have physiological reactions: elevated heart rate, sweatier palms, an increase in adrenalin, etc. They are involuntary, and they are reactions that a non-choker won’t have. They are also observable and measurable.

"I think my motivation is to see the other guys in the clubhouse. They’re contending for the playoffs, and when I see that it gets into my body. I play like it’s the playoffs too" —Memlo

by zknower on Sep 23, 2009 2:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

True

I’d like to see some studies of how top of the line closers (Rivera, Hoffman, Anusface) measure up to bumblers like JJ.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure, those are very true and fair points. I won’t deny that there are physiological reactions to stressful situations. But we don’t know if that’s the case with JJ. And we don’t know the effect size of these physiological reactions to performance. After all, I could argue that elevated heart rate or an increase in adrenalin enhances performance.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

For some guys it most definitely does, for others it causes them to shit their pants on the mound.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I dont get your argument here at all....

How can you really be saying that being a closer is not a complete different makeup than being a Matt Albers. Its a whole different ballgame of pressure and you generally wont ever pitch more than that one inning and you have to go get those 3 outs to win the game. “FOR THE WIN”. Giving up a run in the 6th will rarely be blamed for a loss. Giving up a run in the 9th (like last night) and you are the bigtime goat.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think that fastball in the ribs was proof positive.

not to mention the walks. Jesus.

You don't EVEN KNOW who O's21girl is!

by Senatorrosewater on Sep 23, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I do as well...

You think its a coincendence his sucktitude started when they moved him over. I think some guys have the psychological makeup to be a close and others dont. And after watching JJ cough up yet ANOTHER save, I think he doesnt have it. I would love to see Kam in their throwing lightning bolts in the 9th all year next year. He seems to fit really well there and I think he has the poise to be our closer for years to come.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm excited about Kam too

but I dunno about “years to come.” It’s kinda early to tell. But I really hope they consider him for closer next year, it would be a good experiment.

Heh maybe I’m just so used to being disappointed by the O’s I don’t want to get my hopes up.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

word.

and what’s more… this was a game against the Jays in late September, with no one watching. If he can’t handle that teeny tiny bit of pressure, I hesitate to think what he’d do going forward.

You don't EVEN KNOW who O's21girl is!

by Senatorrosewater on Sep 23, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Great point.

He clearly doesnt have it. Hasnt be blown like 6 out of 14 or something awful like that?

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think

that there is a self-fulfilling psychological edge to the closer’s role.

If nobody believed in the “closers mentality”, it wouldn’t exist at all. And I don’t believe in it – remember when Pujols homered off Lidge and then Lidge was shattered emotionally so much that he could never again be an effective closer?

And then when he was perfect for a year and was an elite closer suddenly?

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Excellent example.

He didnt all of the sudden forget how to pitch after that… he just didnt have the psyche afterwards after watching Pujols gopherball hit a 747 passing by.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm confused now.

At first I thought he was saying Lidge was recked forever after that, but now I think he’s saying that because he sucked for a while after that and then was awesome again the closer’s mentality is bullshit. Not sure though.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So was it just a backhanded cut at us?

lol

Should I be pissed?

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

haha

hard to say. I vote for being pissed!

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm really not cutting

I love this conversation – I really do!

I think the way bullpens are organized and used is one of the things that has the highest chance to be changed in the next decade towards a more efficient system (although it’s been tried and crashed miserably every time so far), so it’s a really interesting topic for me.

No cutting from me. Honest.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol we were just kidding around

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're laughing at me

now I vote to be pissed off!

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

haha settle down "Bullpen Andrew"

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

ummm

and then Lidge was shattered emotionally so much that he could never again be an effective closer?

except for last year when he was the best closer in the game…

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think he was being sarcastic.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

My point exactly

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But the point is...

For awhile after that he was shattered emotionally and couldnt pitch effectively. Whether he eventually put it behind him or not the point remains that there is certainly things that “get in peoples” head and create a psychological stumbling block for alot of these guys. And its clear JJ is really in that rut right now…

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not arguing that

I’m just saying that 1) the mentality stuff is overplayed, and 2) self-fulfilling.

If nobody believed in the closer’s mentality, perhaps Lidge would not have had it in his head after that home run, and would’ve bounced back faster.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m just saying that 1) the mentality stuff is overplayed, and 2) self-fulfilling.

Yeah, I’m with you. It’s like when people saying that Joba didn’t have the mentality to start. Garbage.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ok ok ok....

I think we are beating the dead horse now. I will just go back to my original sentiment that I dont believe JJ has the makeup to be our closer going forward and I dont attribute it to him “simply being in a slump”.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He could tired

He had been probably overused in his two years up here and was hurt last September, wasn’t he?

There’s tons of possible reasons why he’s not pitching effectively. Yes, it absolutely could be the mental aspect…but it seems like a cop-out to just say it is without at least considering everything else.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You may be right.

Although tired is supposed to make a sinker-baller better! That’s what they always said about that fat fuck sydney at least…

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

but it seems like a cop-out to just say it is without at least considering everything else.

AMEN.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Even I can agree with that.

We definitely shouldn’t just assume that’s the reason that he’s sucking recently. But I also think it would be silly to deny that the 9th inning can be a very different beast and some guys are built for it and some guys aren’t.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think we can all agree to these terms.

That being said, I still want to see Kam as our opening day closer and JJ as the set-up guy.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But I also think it would be silly to deny that the 9th inning can be a very different beast and some guys are built for it and some guys aren’t.

And I never entirely denied that. See my post above.

I do think it’s possible for someone to find the 9th inning intimidating and thus choke. But 1) it’s WAY to early to say if JJ’s one of them and 2) I think these guys are in the minority. And even if JJ’s a choker in the 9th, he can acclimate himself to the role with experience. I think the more likely explanation is that JJ is having a rough patch. It happens to everyone.

Also, in SPECIFIC situations (e.g., the playoffs), I believe a closer can choke. I can’t prove it, but I believe it can happen on occasion. In JJ’s case, like Andrew said, I think it’s a cop out at this point.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But if you think they can choke in specific situations, wouldn’t it depend ENTIRELY on the pitcher what those specific situations are that would make THEM choke? Like just because you think that the playoffs are high enough pressure that a player might choke, doesn’t mean that a random Tuesday against the bluejays when both teams are out of contention is enough pressure to make certain guys choke. Even in “meaningless” games there’s really a lot riding on a closer. In the NYT this week Rivera had a quote about how everything your team had done the whole night is riding on your back. Whether you’re in a penant race of not that’s a lot of pressure.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But

isn’t everything riding on the pitcher’s back regardless of the inning, really? You can definitely blow games in the 7th or 8th just as easily as in the ninth after all.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I mean there’s certainly pressure on pitchers at all times, but as I mentioned earlier you can’t lose a game in the 7th or 8th. You can blow a lead, but you can’t have the game end.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So

(and I’m just trying to clarify), is the pressure substantially higher on the road where it’s a real walkoff loss possibility versus at home?

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don’t know about substantially. But there’s certainly more of an end-game feel. Whether it’s substantially or not depends on the pitcher.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But if you think they can choke in specific situations, wouldn’t it depend ENTIRELY on the pitcher what those specific situations are that would make THEM choke? Like just because you think that the playoffs are high enough pressure that a player might choke, doesn’t mean that a random Tuesday against the bluejays when both teams are out of contention is enough pressure to make certain guys choke.

Sure. In theory, a person can choke on a Tuesday night in Sept in a meaningless game and in the playoffs. But I don’t buy that JJ is a choker.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed!

I don’t necessarily think that JJ is a choker, but I think there are people who are not built for the pressures of the 9th inning.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure, I just think these people are somewhat rare in baseball. For most part, players can’t close because they don’t have physical talent, not psychological make up.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ah that I don't know about.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

When you hit a batter to tie the game...

after you load the bases in the bottom of the ninth blowing your 6th save in 14 tries…. then yea, I will be the one to say it:

“JJ is a damn choker”

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

Exactly.

I think you can’t discredit the mental aspect entirely, and it is certainly there for some pitchers who try to be closers, but it’s not the sole reason JJ hasn’t been effective as a closer so far.

Your last statement applies to our September issue too. Yes we have sucked every September since what feels like forever. But this September we also have AJ and Nolan injured (and Bergy!), George and Huff gone, our best rookie pitchers shut down… and terrible hitters like Scott and Mora still consistently in the lineup. And all those AAA players starting. The point is, it’s not just “we suck in September,” it’s “some of our players suck/are slumping/are injured” too.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think its hard to get up and play

When you are 40 games out of first.
I don’t see anyone running out of the Os tunnel like Ray Lewis these days. (I understand no one does… just a stupid point that they are clearly wishing the season was already over).

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey now, we're only 35.5 games out of first!

Heh. I dunno. I find it hard to picture the O’s as a team just giving up after a certain point.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

...Especially this year.

We’ve had some bad luck and some growing pains… and while I certainly never expected us to be contending or anything, I really did not expect it to be this bad. I thought we would avoid the swoon and I do blame most of it on the injuries and the fact that many of our players are still developing.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yikes I retyped that first sentence too many times. I meant to say I think the mental aspect is a big reason but not the sole reason for JJ’s experience as closer so far, and that the mental issues do exist but can’t explain everything… yadda yadda yadda.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

someone should have mentioned

that he’s been closing meaningless games. im not saying hes trying any less harder, i just think we shouldnt read too much into JJ’s last 2 months. I mean come on he’s got to be one of our rocks guys, lets stay behind him.

"you know what the orioles could use right now? a day off." - joe angel

by swilhelmross on Sep 23, 2009 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Its hard.... how much rope do you give a guy?

I think thats part of the reason our entire pen turned to crap. We were too slow “punishing” them and sending them down. We kept guys on the hook way to long. NOT THAT JJ deserved to be sent down, but in my opinion we trotted out Albers and Bass wayyyyy too long. Their asses should have been in Norfolk.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

how can you say its bunk?

have you been a closer?

by twistedlogic on Sep 23, 2009 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You bet. Little League, Central Springfield Division, 1980s. I was a helluva pitcher. Nasty fastball with movement. Excellent control. Bulldog mentality.

I kid, but you don’t have to experience something to talk about it with some degree of common sense and logic.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The consumerist hot dog article is back up

http://consumerist.com/5364220/orioles-park-serves-up-sad-hot-dog-ignores-pleas-for-help

and it’s ridiculous. Go back to the stand to return it, or, you know, look at what you’re eating before you leave.

"I feel like I learned more in eight major league starts than I did in three years of college," -- Brian Matusz

by CoachOfEarl on Sep 23, 2009 12:26 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

First thing that makes me hate that person

We went up to Baltimore to watch our Red Sox play the Orioles

Go back to NoVa, Red Sox fan.

Earl Weaver would’ve kissed Adam Dunn on the mouth in public. - SC 08/11/08

by Stacey on Sep 23, 2009 12:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

touché

"I think my motivation is to see the other guys in the clubhouse. They’re contending for the playoffs, and when I see that it gets into my body. I play like it’s the playoffs too" —Memlo

by zknower on Sep 23, 2009 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No kidding

Walkoff Walk skewered that loser pretty good as well:

"The United States is the New York Yankees of countries...powerful and respected until the year 2000." - Homer J. Simpson

by Brotz13 on Sep 23, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let's try again, dingus!

http://www.walkoffwalk.com/2009/09/orioles-fan-waits-in-vain-for.html

"The United States is the New York Yankees of countries...powerful and respected until the year 2000." - Homer J. Simpson

by Brotz13 on Sep 23, 2009 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

too bad it says "Orioles Nut"

It was a red sox d-bag fan

by drj on Sep 23, 2009 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i just went and commented as such.

"I think my motivation is to see the other guys in the clubhouse. They’re contending for the playoffs, and when I see that it gets into my body. I play like it’s the playoffs too" —Memlo

by zknower on Sep 23, 2009 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

What a freaking baby

Why the eff would you text the concession?!?!
I HATE Boston fans with such a passion.
Believe it or not in comparison I LOVE the Yanks.
Dont get me wrong, I hate the Yankees…. but if they
are playing the Damn Red Sox (fans who whined and
got me kicked out of the game Sat. for “harassing them”)
then i will be all for the Yanks.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Isn't section 77 right next to the Kosher stand?

You don't EVEN KNOW who O's21girl is!

by Senatorrosewater on Sep 23, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And dont hot dog guys run up and down the aisle all game?

I think they just wanted a pity party for the consumer site.
What a bunch of ______.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i hate your average yankee > your av red sock

but red sox fans are far and away the single group of sports supporters that i hate the most.

"you know what the orioles could use right now? a day off." - joe angel

by swilhelmross on Sep 23, 2009 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I want this as a poll on our site...

Who do you hate worse.

A) Yankees fans
B) Red Sox fans.

Mine is a resounding “B”. Especially because they all crawled out of the woodwork after they won two World Series and “Red Sox Nation” was born. What a load of shit.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I hate the Yankees more than I hate the Red Sox,

but I do have to say I’m starting to hate Red Sox fans more than Yankees fans.

Maybe it is indeed because of the newness. Yankees fans who know nothing about baseball have been bandwagoning their whole lives, whereas we saw “Red Sox Nation” unfold before our eyes so we see how ridiculous it is.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

Ive been saying this for a loooong time

I hate the Yankees more than any other professional sports franchise. However, I hate the Red Sox fan base waaaaay more than any other fan base. At least Yankees fans have legs to stand on. They may be front running bandwagon fans, but the team has a legit history. Dont act like your team is the greatest of all time when you’ve won less WS than the O’s since 1919 while having an extra 35 years of play during that period. Thats not something to be proud of. A few good years does NOT make a historically sacred team.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Amen brother... Amen

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

This

PHN took the Yank smugness to a whole new level. I’ve met several intelligent MFY fans, the PHN is a bunch of blathering morons.

That said, it’s the Yankees that must be destroyed.

I may have to quote your comparison.

"I feel like I learned more in eight major league starts than I did in three years of college," -- Brian Matusz

by CoachOfEarl on Sep 23, 2009 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

be my guest

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 7:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

speaking of the draft and Harper

Right now, we’re lined up for the 3rd pick.

"Well, I believe in the soul, the cock, the pussy, the small of a woman's back, the hanging curve ball, high fiber, good scotch, that the novels of Susan Sontag are self-indulgent, overrated crap. I believe Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. I believe there ought to be a constitutional amendment outlawing Astroturf and the designated hitter. I believe in the sweet spot, soft-core pornography, opening your presents Christmas morning rather than Christmas Eve and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days."

by birdman on Sep 23, 2009 12:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

On the Radio - Perception is everything.

(paraphrasing Oakland A’s sports talk this morning)

Guy 1: Yanks are the first team to clinch a playoff berth last night
Guy 2: Yep, A-Rod hit a dinger to end the game. He’s hit 27 so far this year.
Guy 1: Impressive, considering he missed the first six weeks while finishing his suspension
Guy 2: uhh. no. He wasn’t suspended. He was recovering from an injury.
Guy 1: Oh. Oh yeah – that’s right.

by typozzz on Sep 23, 2009 1:36 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

That's terrific

also noting that he hit a sac fly to win the game. Just wonderful.

I enjoyed KLaw on Mike and Mike this morning talking about how Greinke should 100% win the Cy Young because wins are overrated. He got off and then Golic mentioned how he thinks Wainwright is the clear favorite in the NL because he has more wins than Lincecum or Carpenter. I just about crashed my car from slapping my forehead too hard.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So, the original question

What is the early thoughts on who will/should be in the bullpen next year?

To refresh, I said: Uehara closing, JJ, Kam, Meredith, Ray, Hernandez, and Hendrickson

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:42 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Does that mean you have Berken in the rotation to start?

I am sort of hoping Jake wins a spot in ST and it’ll be Guthrie, Bergesen, and then the big three. Then Berken can go to the BP too.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh my lord no

My rotation is (in no order) Guthrie, Matusz, Tillman, Bergesen, Arrieta. If a big time free agent is brought in (it would have to be, for me, John Lackey – and that ain’t happenin’), I’d probably shop Guthrie.

Berken can go back to Norfolk with Troy Patton.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm

I like Berken more than Hernandez currently.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ok, I could give or take either one of them

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd like to see both of them in the bullpen.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No Rich Hill?

You don't EVEN KNOW who O's21girl is!

by Senatorrosewater on Sep 23, 2009 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You mistakenly put a question mark in your comment

"I feel like I learned more in eight major league starts than I did in three years of college," -- Brian Matusz

by CoachOfEarl on Sep 23, 2009 6:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why Ray?

I want him gone but want to hear your reasons for keeping him around.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 2:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think he could still be good.

He still has a great arm and great stuff. He very well could still be recovering from the surgery. There’s the physical recovery which he’s probably mostly done with since he’s back to throwing 94 mph pretty consistently, but then there’s also re-learning how to pitch. When you have the surgery you’re not throwing at all for a long period of time, then doing an extended throwing/long-toss program without every going near a mound or throwing an off-speed pitch. And then often your arm angle (and other mechanics) is slightly different than it was before so you have to either get comfortable with it or try to get back to your old arm angle. I think it’s worth seeing if he can get it back together still. He’s not really costing us anything financially and until the games matter who really cares.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Makes sense.

I guess 2006 just feels like a million years ago.

Are you saying you think Ray was brought back prematurely? Or is throwing in ML games (that don’t matter) at this stage all part of the healing process?

To me he just looks like he shouldn’t be in the majors right now…

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nah I don’t think he was brought back prematurely as far as him being healed – I just think it’ll take a little more time to know what he really is. Whether he was brought back too early for him to be effective that’s another story.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm just not sold

that he can’t be a good reliever. I mean, I wouldn’t be upset if he got waived or anything. I think the core of the bullpen has to be JJ, Uehara, Hendrickson, and Mickolio. The other three spots are highly debatable and frankly I just picked the three guys I hate the least out of Bass, Meredith, Berken, Hernandez, Ray, Sarfate, etc. etc.

I could really give or take any of them without an argument.

"I like baseball, movies, good clothes, whiskey, fast cars ... and you. What else you need to know?"

by Andrew @ TLC on Sep 23, 2009 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gotcha

and basically agreed… though I like having Claaaa around a bit more than the rest of the circus.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

why?

he sucks too

by twistedlogic on Sep 23, 2009 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

agreed...

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I know

I just like having a submarine pitcher around. And I said I like him a BIT more… y’know, compared to the rest. I don’t think he’s our bullpen savior or anything.

by O Nina on Sep 23, 2009 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

fair enough

our pen needs a lot more than one savior. although one guy who can actually pitch would be a great start.

by twistedlogic on Sep 23, 2009 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have a soft spot for Cla.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i dont have a soft spot for anyone that sucks

by twistedlogic on Sep 23, 2009 5:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just because he walked you once

Which is reason enough to know he doesn’t belong in the majors ;)

Earl Weaver would’ve kissed Adam Dunn on the mouth in public. - SC 08/11/08

by Stacey on Sep 23, 2009 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

haha

it was a great AB though! (not really)

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anyone have good info on estimated financials for MLB teams? Including revenue sharing?

Forbes always put one out. I can’t find it.

Reading these articles about the “horrible” Blue Jays makes me wonder what their take was last year, and then check back for this year. I think most owners still make money despite how poorly the team winds up in the standings. The guys who pay out a ton of money run a higher risk of losing money. It’s a strong disincentive for the mid and small market teams.

by drj on Sep 23, 2009 1:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Call me crazy

But Im a fan of Castillo….
There isn’t a huge sample of work to judge him on, but I liked what he’s done, and I like his stuff. Also (again small sample) but his career stats look pretty decent.

Does he have a shot of being pencilled in to the opening day staff next year?

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 2:45 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

He hasn't pissed me off either.

Especailly when used just against lefties.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

For you OsFan21 “He hasn’t pissed me off” is a raving endorsement that you love the guy!

LMAO… I cracked up at this.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

There aren't many out there who have avoided my wrath this year!

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He really has cleaned up a couple messes this week though...

And Henn came in with bases loaded no out a couple nights ago and escaped with NO runs. I dont know much about that guy though….

But, Ill go on record. I like Castillo (so far).

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I actually like the look of Henn.

Don’t know shit about him either, but a tall lefty throwing 93 from 3/4 arm angle looks pretty good to me.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Those guys are the polar opposite of the shit we've seen....

out of McRory and Lambert since we went to the 40-man.

What a shitstorm those two have been. McRory can go fuck himself for all I care.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i feel bad for him

I feel like he looks worse and worse every time I see him. And he was FUCKING HORRIBLE the first time I saw him!

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He is CLEARLY in WAAAAY over his head

But all Captain Hook keeps trotting his ass out there every night and destroying his confidence.

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anyone watching the Yankee game right now?

by Wieters Wieners on Sep 23, 2009 4:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

tracking it on stattracker

guy i’m matched up with in fantasy championship has a bunch of yerks on his team so i need them to do badly.

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 4:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Toronto, Cleveland, Tampa, and Toronto again?

We could drop out of the top three.

"There's only one cure for what's wrong with all of us pitchers, and that's to take a year off. Then, after you've gone a year without throwing, quit altogether." -Jim Palmer

by Baltimo on Sep 23, 2009 5:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I hope so!

by O'sFan21 on Sep 23, 2009 5:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was kinda hoping for 4th place still

Put the BJs in the cellar, since we’re not getting Harper anyway

"I feel like I learned more in eight major league starts than I did in three years of college," -- Brian Matusz

by CoachOfEarl on Sep 23, 2009 6:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

8 games back with 11 to play?

I think that ship has sailed…

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 7:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

espn strikes again!

here ya go…

“Mark Reynolds has officially outdone himself in the strikeouts column. But is his new record of 206 K’s in a season OK, considering his OBP is .919? Vote!”

Sure, i’d take a guy w/ 206 k’s if he is getting on base 92% of the time. I dont know how thats possible, but i’ll take it.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 8:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

His OPS is .919.

by henhoo on Sep 23, 2009 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yea, I got that

the point is its a glaring error that anyone that knows anything about baseball would catch, yet espn lets it go staight to the front page. Its funny.

by daveh873 on Sep 23, 2009 9:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

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