Put a bird on it! http://cdn3.sbnation.com/community_logos/48285/camden-fave.png 2013-05-14T00:24:14Z http://www.camdenchat.com/rss/fanposts.xml 2013-05-14T00:24:14Z 2013-05-14T00:24:14Z <p><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1604667/tumblr_m43je5VNmy1qf9osvo1_500.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1604667/tumblr_m43je5VNmy1qf9osvo1_500_medium.jpg" alt="Tumblr_m43je5vnmy1qf9osvo1_500_medium"></a></p> <p>via <a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m43je5VNmy1qf9osvo1_500.jpg">25.media.tumblr.com</a></p> <p><br></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>After almost 15 years of failed campaigns, the times are better in Baltimore for the Orioles. Most everyone, fans, pundits, and locals, are thrilled to see the team's recent proclivity for winning.</p> <p>But there are some who aren't so happy.</p> <p>"It's not that I don't like the team or the players," said Jason Alexander, actor. "Sometimes, a person just needs a little of the credit."</p> <p>The longtime Hollywood actor has appeared in award-winning Broadway plays, movies, and multiple television shows, and even directed. Yet when it comes to sports, the thespian is not known for his acumen.</p> <p>"I'm not even saying I'm a sports genius," said Alexander. "I never made it out of tee ball even, but I know the rules of baseball, and I know when I'm on to something."</p> <p>So where do the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Baltimore Orioles</a> come in?</p> <p>One dismal season after another seemed to be the trend for Charm City, until owner Peter Angelos wrangled in Buck Showalter to right the ship. Now in his third season with the team, the club is off to a solid start after a winning 2012 season, the first since 1997. </p> <p>So, what's the big deal, Jason?</p> <p>"The year was 1994. Ask Buck, or as I called him, Willy No-Talent Nate," said Alexander. </p> <p>During a strike-shortened season, Showalter appeared with Alexander in an <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYFbknzeVNM" target="_blank">episode </a>of NBC's hit television show, Seinfeld.</p> <p>"He was the worst actor I have ever seen," said a bitter Alexander. "And he stole my idea."</p> <p>During this episode, Alexander's character George Costanza pitches the idea of changing from polyester to cotton uniforms to then-<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/new-york-yankees" class="sbn-auto-link">Yankees</a> manager Showalter. The script has Costanza citing that players would prefer cotton, as it is a natural fiber that breathes much better.</p> <p>Alexander believes this is what Buck's Birds are using for their upper hand against the American League East. And he wants credit.</p> <p>"How else can you explain it?" said a visibly upset Alexander. "And don't give me any of that 'Orioles Magic' crap, I know a superior fabric when I see one."</p> <p>Numerous reports show that Baltimore's uniforms meet league-sanctioned standards, but Alexander is convinced.</p> <p>"Just look at them on the field, look how comfortable they all look. You can visibly tell a difference between one team and another team that is five degrees cooler."</p> <p>Perhaps time will only tell what has Showalter's crew playing so inspired. One thing is for sure: Alexander won't let it go.</p> <p>"I just think an apology, an admittance of what they did, and a forfeiture of the 2012 season is appropriate."</p> <p><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1604667/tumblr_m43je5VNmy1qf9osvo1_500.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1604667/tumblr_m43je5VNmy1qf9osvo1_500_medium.jpg" alt="Tumblr_m43je5vnmy1qf9osvo1_500_medium"></a></p> <p>via <a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m43je5VNmy1qf9osvo1_500.jpg">25.media.tumblr.com</a></p> <p><br></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>After almost 15 years of failed campaigns, the times are better in Baltimore for the Orioles. Most everyone, fans, pundits, and locals, are thrilled to see the team's recent proclivity for winning.</p> <p>But there are some who aren't so happy.</p> <p>"It's not that I don't like the team or the players," said Jason Alexander, actor. "Sometimes, a person just needs a little of the credit."</p> <p>The longtime Hollywood actor has appeared in award-winning Broadway plays, movies, and multiple television shows, and even directed. Yet when it comes to sports, the thespian is not known for his acumen.</p> <p>"I'm not even saying I'm a sports genius," said Alexander. "I never made it out of tee ball even, but I know the rules of baseball, and I know when I'm on to something."</p> <p>So where do the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Baltimore Orioles</a> come in?</p> <p>One dismal season after another seemed to be the trend for Charm City, until owner Peter Angelos wrangled in Buck Showalter to right the ship. Now in his third season with the team, the club is off to a solid start after a winning 2012 season, the first since 1997. </p> <p>So, what's the big deal, Jason?</p> <p>"The year was 1994. Ask Buck, or as I called him, Willy No-Talent Nate," said Alexander. </p> <p>During a strike-shortened season, Showalter appeared with Alexander in an <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYFbknzeVNM" target="_blank">episode </a>of NBC's hit television show, Seinfeld.</p> <p>"He was the worst actor I have ever seen," said a bitter Alexander. "And he stole my idea."</p> <p>During this episode, Alexander's character George Costanza pitches the idea of changing from polyester to cotton uniforms to then-<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/new-york-yankees" class="sbn-auto-link">Yankees</a> manager Showalter. The script has Costanza citing that players would prefer cotton, as it is a natural fiber that breathes much better.</p> <p>Alexander believes this is what Buck's Birds are using for their upper hand against the American League East. And he wants credit.</p> <p>"How else can you explain it?" said a visibly upset Alexander. "And don't give me any of that 'Orioles Magic' crap, I know a superior fabric when I see one."</p> <p>Numerous reports show that Baltimore's uniforms meet league-sanctioned standards, but Alexander is convinced.</p> <p>"Just look at them on the field, look how comfortable they all look. You can visibly tell a difference between one team and another team that is five degrees cooler."</p> <p>Perhaps time will only tell what has Showalter's crew playing so inspired. One thing is for sure: Alexander won't let it go.</p> <p>"I just think an apology, an admittance of what they did, and a forfeiture of the 2012 season is appropriate."</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/5/13/4328350/jason-alexander-frustrated-with-orioles-success Joe Davola 2013-05-11T21:51:01Z 2013-05-11T21:51:01Z <p><br>Greetings everyone,</p> <p> </p> <p>Last month, a co-worker was moving to Denver and decided it was as good of time as any to unload some things in advance of the move. One of the things he unloaded to me was an extra Frank Robinson statue. I thanked him generously, but I also knew it only meant one thing- I had to get all six of them now, and have since collected a full set for my neighbor as well. The six statues the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> handed out last year isn't something the O's have come up with by themselves, other teams have done it too, more on that in a bit. But first, a guide to getting these statues and approximate prices, including shipping:</p> <p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601655/946309_10151610427260280_1855826984_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601655/946309_10151610427260280_1855826984_n_medium.jpg" height="159" alt="946309_10151610427260280_1855826984_n_medium" width="158"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/946309_10151610427260280_1855826984_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p><br></p> <p>Frank Robinson was the first statue handed out, on April 28 against the A's. The market for this one is unusual, since a lot of people were leaving them behind not knowing the quality of future demand of these statues, however some people did and horded the ones that were left behind. Therefore, there is a somewhat high demand and supply of Frank Robinson statues. </p> <p>Price: You should be able to get one for no more then $30, perhaps as low as $20.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601667/944291_10151610427045280_445912981_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601667/944291_10151610427045280_445912981_n_medium.jpg" height="208" alt="944291_10151610427045280_445912981_n_medium" width="192"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/944291_10151610427045280_445912981_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p>Next up was Earl Weaver, on June 30, against Cleveland. This may be the most difficult find at the moment, given his recent death driving up demand against a fairly tight supply. </p> <p> </p> <p>Price: You'd do well getting this for $30, more realistic would be mid-$30s.</p> <p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601673/945598_10151610426690280_1861263656_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601673/945598_10151610426690280_1861263656_n_medium.jpg" height="186" alt="945598_10151610426690280_1861263656_n_medium" width="198"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/945598_10151610426690280_1861263656_n.jpg">sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net</a></p> <p><br></p> <p> </p> <p>Jim Palmer was next, given away July 14 against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/detroit-tigers" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a>. By now, people were starting to catch on that these statues were worthwhile, but the market for these isn't as tight as Weaver or Ripken. This one has the tallest box of the six, and is the biggest statue of the six (although Murray's is taller). Did you know he never gave up a grand slam?</p> <p>Price: Similar to that of Frank, $20-30.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601685/321321_10151610427235280_737362464_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601685/321321_10151610427235280_737362464_n_medium.jpg" height="228" alt="321321_10151610427235280_737362464_n_medium" width="191"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/321321_10151610427235280_737362464_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p>The severely underrated Eddie Murray was given away on August 11, against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/kansas-city-royals" class="sbn-auto-link">Royals</a>. This game had a rain delay, so some of the boxes were damaged. Eddie's is the tallest of the six, with the end of his bat about 10" tall. There seems to be a slightly higher market for him, although lower then Cal or Earl.</p> <p>Price: A bit higher then Palmer, mid-$20s-low$30s.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601691/945760_10151610427155280_726290211_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601691/945760_10151610427155280_726290211_n_medium.jpg" height="210" alt="945760_10151610427155280_726290211_n_medium" width="238"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/945760_10151610427155280_726290211_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p>We all know the story behind the game where Cal Ripken was given away- a classic 10-6 win on September 8 against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/new-york-yankees" class="sbn-auto-link">Yankees</a> in the heat of a divisional race. These statues are in demand not only from Oriole fans, but baseball fans in general as well. However, sellers are aware of this too so there is a fairly high supply of these statues. But some of the sellers are drastically overestimating the demand, resulting in some list prices two, even three times market price. This statue is the widest of the six, spanning 9.5" from the tip of his glove to the edge of the base.</p> <p>Price: The most expensive of the six, $35-$45.</p> <p><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601703/65663_10151610426765280_641969378_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601703/65663_10151610426765280_641969378_n_medium.jpg" height="265" alt="65663_10151610426765280_641969378_n_medium" width="230"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/65663_10151610426765280_641969378_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p>The last statue given away was Brooks Robinson, on September 29 against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/boston-red-sox" class="sbn-auto-link">Red Sox</a>. This game was sold out, or close to it, resulting in an ample supply. This one and Weaver are about the same size, and are the smallest of the set. </p> <p>Price: The same as Palmer/Frank, $20-30.</p> <p>So, there you go. If you've got ~$175-200 to burn on Orioles stuff, these are a good investment as they display wonderfully. Outside of the one given to me, and an extra Palmer I traded to get Ripken, I got these on eBay. There are several listings for these statues at any given time, and is the best source to find these at the prices I've listed above. Also, some trade shows are selling these, and I have found some listings on Craig's list, although at a ~$5/statue premium.</p> <p> </p> <p>Next, I turned my attention to the rest of the league to see who else has done this. The answer is some have and some haven't. Here's a list of teams with the players that I was able to find:</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/minnesota-twins" class="sbn-auto-link">Twins</a>- They did two a year from 2005-2009, for a total of ten. Players are Kaat, Killabrew, Molitor, Morris, Blyleven, Oliva, Carew, Puckett, Hrbek and Mauer.</p> <p>Royals- In 2009, they have Brett, Howser, and Frank White.</p> <p>Yankees- They did 3 a year from 2004-2006, including Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Mantle, Maris, Munson, Berra, Ford and Rizzuto. They also did Reggie Jackson in '04, separate from that series.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/san-francisco-giants" class="sbn-auto-link">Giants</a>- Willie Mays in 2011, McCovey in 2012.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/texas-rangers" class="sbn-auto-link">Rangers</a>- Nolan Ryan, 2009.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/chicago-white-sox" class="sbn-auto-link">White Sox</a>- <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/865/frank-thomas" class="sbn-auto-link">Frank Thomas</a> 2011, Carlton Fisk 2012, and Billy Pierce this year.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/pittsburgh-pirates" class="sbn-auto-link">Pirates</a>- A series of Clemente, Wagner and Stargell in 2005, and Josh Gibson in 2007.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/atlanta-braves" class="sbn-auto-link">Braves</a>- McCann, Smoltz and Aaron in 2007.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/cleveland-indians" class="sbn-auto-link">Indians</a>- Bob Feller, 2011</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/cincinnati-reds" class="sbn-auto-link">Reds</a>- They are doing a series of six this year just like the Orioles did last year. Players include Nuxhall, Lombardi, Kluszewski, Frank Robinson, Bench and Morgan. They also did Sparky in 2011.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/chicago-cubs" class="sbn-auto-link">Cubs</a>- Honored <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/780/carlos-zambrano" class="sbn-auto-link">Carlos Zambrano's</a> no-hitter in 2009.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/st-louis-cardinals" class="sbn-auto-link">Cardinals</a>- have done Brock, Musial, Bob Gibson, and Schoendienst over the last handful of seasons. They are giving a second set of Musial away this July.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/los-angeles-angels" class="sbn-auto-link">Angels</a>- Colon and Vlad, 2007.</p> <p> </p> <p>That is the list of SGA statues I've seen across the majors, not to be confused with figurines. If I include painted statues (figurines, at least in my book), then this list includes most other teams and would obviously include more players.</p> <p>Obviously, this list can be edited, so if you know of any that have been missed, please let me know.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><br></p> <p><br>Greetings everyone,</p> <p> </p> <p>Last month, a co-worker was moving to Denver and decided it was as good of time as any to unload some things in advance of the move. One of the things he unloaded to me was an extra Frank Robinson statue. I thanked him generously, but I also knew it only meant one thing- I had to get all six of them now, and have since collected a full set for my neighbor as well. The six statues the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> handed out last year isn't something the O's have come up with by themselves, other teams have done it too, more on that in a bit. But first, a guide to getting these statues and approximate prices, including shipping:</p> <p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601655/946309_10151610427260280_1855826984_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601655/946309_10151610427260280_1855826984_n_medium.jpg" height="159" alt="946309_10151610427260280_1855826984_n_medium" width="158"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/946309_10151610427260280_1855826984_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p><br></p> <p>Frank Robinson was the first statue handed out, on April 28 against the A's. The market for this one is unusual, since a lot of people were leaving them behind not knowing the quality of future demand of these statues, however some people did and horded the ones that were left behind. Therefore, there is a somewhat high demand and supply of Frank Robinson statues. </p> <p>Price: You should be able to get one for no more then $30, perhaps as low as $20.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601667/944291_10151610427045280_445912981_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601667/944291_10151610427045280_445912981_n_medium.jpg" height="208" alt="944291_10151610427045280_445912981_n_medium" width="192"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/944291_10151610427045280_445912981_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p>Next up was Earl Weaver, on June 30, against Cleveland. This may be the most difficult find at the moment, given his recent death driving up demand against a fairly tight supply. </p> <p> </p> <p>Price: You'd do well getting this for $30, more realistic would be mid-$30s.</p> <p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601673/945598_10151610426690280_1861263656_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601673/945598_10151610426690280_1861263656_n_medium.jpg" height="186" alt="945598_10151610426690280_1861263656_n_medium" width="198"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/945598_10151610426690280_1861263656_n.jpg">sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net</a></p> <p><br></p> <p> </p> <p>Jim Palmer was next, given away July 14 against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/detroit-tigers" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a>. By now, people were starting to catch on that these statues were worthwhile, but the market for these isn't as tight as Weaver or Ripken. This one has the tallest box of the six, and is the biggest statue of the six (although Murray's is taller). Did you know he never gave up a grand slam?</p> <p>Price: Similar to that of Frank, $20-30.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601685/321321_10151610427235280_737362464_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601685/321321_10151610427235280_737362464_n_medium.jpg" height="228" alt="321321_10151610427235280_737362464_n_medium" width="191"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/321321_10151610427235280_737362464_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p>The severely underrated Eddie Murray was given away on August 11, against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/kansas-city-royals" class="sbn-auto-link">Royals</a>. This game had a rain delay, so some of the boxes were damaged. Eddie's is the tallest of the six, with the end of his bat about 10" tall. There seems to be a slightly higher market for him, although lower then Cal or Earl.</p> <p>Price: A bit higher then Palmer, mid-$20s-low$30s.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601691/945760_10151610427155280_726290211_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601691/945760_10151610427155280_726290211_n_medium.jpg" height="210" alt="945760_10151610427155280_726290211_n_medium" width="238"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/945760_10151610427155280_726290211_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p>We all know the story behind the game where Cal Ripken was given away- a classic 10-6 win on September 8 against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/new-york-yankees" class="sbn-auto-link">Yankees</a> in the heat of a divisional race. These statues are in demand not only from Oriole fans, but baseball fans in general as well. However, sellers are aware of this too so there is a fairly high supply of these statues. But some of the sellers are drastically overestimating the demand, resulting in some list prices two, even three times market price. This statue is the widest of the six, spanning 9.5" from the tip of his glove to the edge of the base.</p> <p>Price: The most expensive of the six, $35-$45.</p> <p><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601703/65663_10151610426765280_641969378_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1601703/65663_10151610426765280_641969378_n_medium.jpg" height="265" alt="65663_10151610426765280_641969378_n_medium" width="230"></a></p> <p>via <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/65663_10151610426765280_641969378_n.jpg">fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net</a></p> <p>The last statue given away was Brooks Robinson, on September 29 against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/boston-red-sox" class="sbn-auto-link">Red Sox</a>. This game was sold out, or close to it, resulting in an ample supply. This one and Weaver are about the same size, and are the smallest of the set. </p> <p>Price: The same as Palmer/Frank, $20-30.</p> <p>So, there you go. If you've got ~$175-200 to burn on Orioles stuff, these are a good investment as they display wonderfully. Outside of the one given to me, and an extra Palmer I traded to get Ripken, I got these on eBay. There are several listings for these statues at any given time, and is the best source to find these at the prices I've listed above. Also, some trade shows are selling these, and I have found some listings on Craig's list, although at a ~$5/statue premium.</p> <p> </p> <p>Next, I turned my attention to the rest of the league to see who else has done this. The answer is some have and some haven't. Here's a list of teams with the players that I was able to find:</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/minnesota-twins" class="sbn-auto-link">Twins</a>- They did two a year from 2005-2009, for a total of ten. Players are Kaat, Killabrew, Molitor, Morris, Blyleven, Oliva, Carew, Puckett, Hrbek and Mauer.</p> <p>Royals- In 2009, they have Brett, Howser, and Frank White.</p> <p>Yankees- They did 3 a year from 2004-2006, including Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Mantle, Maris, Munson, Berra, Ford and Rizzuto. They also did Reggie Jackson in '04, separate from that series.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/san-francisco-giants" class="sbn-auto-link">Giants</a>- Willie Mays in 2011, McCovey in 2012.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/texas-rangers" class="sbn-auto-link">Rangers</a>- Nolan Ryan, 2009.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/chicago-white-sox" class="sbn-auto-link">White Sox</a>- <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/865/frank-thomas" class="sbn-auto-link">Frank Thomas</a> 2011, Carlton Fisk 2012, and Billy Pierce this year.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/pittsburgh-pirates" class="sbn-auto-link">Pirates</a>- A series of Clemente, Wagner and Stargell in 2005, and Josh Gibson in 2007.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/atlanta-braves" class="sbn-auto-link">Braves</a>- McCann, Smoltz and Aaron in 2007.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/cleveland-indians" class="sbn-auto-link">Indians</a>- Bob Feller, 2011</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/cincinnati-reds" class="sbn-auto-link">Reds</a>- They are doing a series of six this year just like the Orioles did last year. Players include Nuxhall, Lombardi, Kluszewski, Frank Robinson, Bench and Morgan. They also did Sparky in 2011.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/chicago-cubs" class="sbn-auto-link">Cubs</a>- Honored <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/780/carlos-zambrano" class="sbn-auto-link">Carlos Zambrano's</a> no-hitter in 2009.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/st-louis-cardinals" class="sbn-auto-link">Cardinals</a>- have done Brock, Musial, Bob Gibson, and Schoendienst over the last handful of seasons. They are giving a second set of Musial away this July.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/los-angeles-angels" class="sbn-auto-link">Angels</a>- Colon and Vlad, 2007.</p> <p> </p> <p>That is the list of SGA statues I've seen across the majors, not to be confused with figurines. If I include painted statues (figurines, at least in my book), then this list includes most other teams and would obviously include more players.</p> <p>Obviously, this list can be edited, so if you know of any that have been missed, please let me know.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><br></p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/5/11/4322340/replica-statues-the-orioles-and-other-mlb-teams goldomatic 2013-05-09T11:19:10Z 2013-05-09T11:19:10Z <p>Umpires have the most unforgiving job of anyone on a baseball field. Whether it's judging if a spinning ball thrown 90 MPH passes through a theoretical area, trying to see two events at once, or managing the flow of a game, umpires are rarely praised. After all, their job is to be invisible.</p> <p>Many (including myself) think that there is a whole lot of room for improvement over the current system. There are too many missed calls, too many "real" strike zones, too many egos among the men in black. But even a complete conversion of the umpiring job isn't the answer. Why? Because the human element is always going to be there somewhere.</p> <p>As O's fans, we all know how painful an incorrect HR call can be. Last night, the A's felt the same way (sort of). In the top of the 9th, down 4-3, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31631/adam-rosales" class="sbn-auto-link">Adam Rosales</a> hit a long fly ball off the top of the LF wall and pulled into second base with a double. He and A's manager Bob Melvin felt that it had hit the railing over the wall and would thus be a game-tying home run. In accordance with the rules, Melvin requested that the umpires review the call (the HR of course being the only reviewable play). During the review break, every broadcast team watched the tape and saw - a HR. Yet when the umps came back, crew chief Angel Hernandez signaled a double. Melvin stormed out of the dugout to argue the call and was quickly thrown out of the game.</p> <p style="direction: ltr;">So progress has been made. We've moved from having umpires make uninformed mistakes to making the same mistakes, but with video<i>. </i>Even full implementation of video review on plays at the plate, catch/traps, or whatever else doesn't mean perfection. This is the human element, and as long as the game will be played, there will be mistakes and blown calls.</p> <p style="direction: ltr;">So what does (or should) this mean for the future of umpiring? Probably not much. But this incident has made me think about other changes I'd like to see made to the game in this regard. For example, Pitch f/x. It's an excellent system, very accurate and in every ballpark in the majors, but still has a margin of error (MOE) (I've found several different claims on the exact error, most say it's ~1 in.). Of course, margins of error are impossible to eliminate, so those who support eventual robotification of calling balls and strikes will have to live with it. But more pressing than the natural MOE there is the issue of the vertical definition of the strike zone. MLB defines the strike zone as such:</p> <blockquote> <p style="direction: ltr;">The STRIKE ZONE is that area over home plate the upper limit of which is a horizontal line at the midpoint between the top of the shoulders and the top of the uniform pants, and the lower level is a line at the hollow beneath the kneecap. The Strike Zone shall be determined from the batter&rsquo;s stance as the batter is prepared to swing at a pitched ball.</p> </blockquote> <p style="direction: ltr;">Unfortunately, no one has really come up with a good way of managing that with Pitch f/x. Brooks Baseball just uses 1.5 ft. and 3.5 ft. as the designated lower and upper boundaries. Obviously this is a wrong approach since not all players the same height, and even the same player may change his batting stance. Either the boundaries will need to be entered into calculations in real time by (gasp!) humans, or maybe sensors sewn into the uniforms in the appropriate spots. Even the more theoretically accurate, computerized method is inaccurate as it would compound MOE issues along with any malfunctions that may occur.</p> <p style="direction: ltr;">The bottom line for me is this: sometimes the pursuit of perfection may mar the thing we are trying to perfect. The human element isn't going away, ever. There's no reason to embrace it, as some traditionalists have, but maybe we should all accept it.</p> <p>Umpires have the most unforgiving job of anyone on a baseball field. Whether it's judging if a spinning ball thrown 90 MPH passes through a theoretical area, trying to see two events at once, or managing the flow of a game, umpires are rarely praised. After all, their job is to be invisible.</p> <p>Many (including myself) think that there is a whole lot of room for improvement over the current system. There are too many missed calls, too many "real" strike zones, too many egos among the men in black. But even a complete conversion of the umpiring job isn't the answer. Why? Because the human element is always going to be there somewhere.</p> <p>As O's fans, we all know how painful an incorrect HR call can be. Last night, the A's felt the same way (sort of). In the top of the 9th, down 4-3, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31631/adam-rosales" class="sbn-auto-link">Adam Rosales</a> hit a long fly ball off the top of the LF wall and pulled into second base with a double. He and A's manager Bob Melvin felt that it had hit the railing over the wall and would thus be a game-tying home run. In accordance with the rules, Melvin requested that the umpires review the call (the HR of course being the only reviewable play). During the review break, every broadcast team watched the tape and saw - a HR. Yet when the umps came back, crew chief Angel Hernandez signaled a double. Melvin stormed out of the dugout to argue the call and was quickly thrown out of the game.</p> <p style="direction: ltr;">So progress has been made. We've moved from having umpires make uninformed mistakes to making the same mistakes, but with video<i>. </i>Even full implementation of video review on plays at the plate, catch/traps, or whatever else doesn't mean perfection. This is the human element, and as long as the game will be played, there will be mistakes and blown calls.</p> <p style="direction: ltr;">So what does (or should) this mean for the future of umpiring? Probably not much. But this incident has made me think about other changes I'd like to see made to the game in this regard. For example, Pitch f/x. It's an excellent system, very accurate and in every ballpark in the majors, but still has a margin of error (MOE) (I've found several different claims on the exact error, most say it's ~1 in.). Of course, margins of error are impossible to eliminate, so those who support eventual robotification of calling balls and strikes will have to live with it. But more pressing than the natural MOE there is the issue of the vertical definition of the strike zone. MLB defines the strike zone as such:</p> <blockquote> <p style="direction: ltr;">The STRIKE ZONE is that area over home plate the upper limit of which is a horizontal line at the midpoint between the top of the shoulders and the top of the uniform pants, and the lower level is a line at the hollow beneath the kneecap. The Strike Zone shall be determined from the batter&rsquo;s stance as the batter is prepared to swing at a pitched ball.</p> </blockquote> <p style="direction: ltr;">Unfortunately, no one has really come up with a good way of managing that with Pitch f/x. Brooks Baseball just uses 1.5 ft. and 3.5 ft. as the designated lower and upper boundaries. Obviously this is a wrong approach since not all players the same height, and even the same player may change his batting stance. Either the boundaries will need to be entered into calculations in real time by (gasp!) humans, or maybe sensors sewn into the uniforms in the appropriate spots. Even the more theoretically accurate, computerized method is inaccurate as it would compound MOE issues along with any malfunctions that may occur.</p> <p style="direction: ltr;">The bottom line for me is this: sometimes the pursuit of perfection may mar the thing we are trying to perfect. The human element isn't going away, ever. There's no reason to embrace it, as some traditionalists have, but maybe we should all accept it.</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/5/9/4314958/instant-replay-margins-of-error-and-the-human-element J(O's)elskIL 2013-05-03T15:20:51Z 2013-05-03T15:20:51Z <p>Hey New York City Camden Chatters, of which I know there are many. I've passively mentioned doing a game-watching meetup a few times in game threads and Bird Droppings but never actually taken the initiative to try to set something up, so this is me taking the initiative. (Now I just need to convince myself to take the same initiative in applying for jobs...)</p> <p><b>I hereby call to order a meeting of the New York City chapter of Camden Chat. Let us gather and have beers and watch the Birds and reminisce about Bohs and Boog's and other things that we cannot get here, trapped deep behind enemy lines. Let us put a big fat bird on the Big Apple.</b></p> <p>There's an <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> bar in the East Village called The Horsebox that seems like a solid choice. There was a <a href="http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2012-10-07/entertainment/bal-the-horsebox-is-the-best-orioles-bar-in-new-york-city-20121007_1_orioles-fans-bar-east-village" target="_blank">Baltimore Sun article on it last year</a> and the owners are from Annapolis. It's at 14th St and Avenue A, really close to the 1st Ave subway stop on the L and not too terribly far from the NQR and 4-5-6 at Union Square.</p> <p>So with that in mind, are Saturdays best for people? Fridays? Weeknight drinking? I don't work normal people hours so I'm pretty open to just about any night, but I know that's not true for most people. So I'm just gonna randomly throw a few dates out there to see what we can come up with:</p> <p>Saturday, June 1 (4 p.m. vs. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/detroit-tigers" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a>)<br>Friday, June 7 (7 p.m. @ <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/tampa-bay-rays" class="sbn-auto-link">Rays</a>)<br>Saturday, June 8 (4 p.m. @ Rays)</p> <p>Let's do this.</p> <p>Hey New York City Camden Chatters, of which I know there are many. I've passively mentioned doing a game-watching meetup a few times in game threads and Bird Droppings but never actually taken the initiative to try to set something up, so this is me taking the initiative. (Now I just need to convince myself to take the same initiative in applying for jobs...)</p> <p><b>I hereby call to order a meeting of the New York City chapter of Camden Chat. Let us gather and have beers and watch the Birds and reminisce about Bohs and Boog's and other things that we cannot get here, trapped deep behind enemy lines. Let us put a big fat bird on the Big Apple.</b></p> <p>There's an <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> bar in the East Village called The Horsebox that seems like a solid choice. There was a <a href="http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2012-10-07/entertainment/bal-the-horsebox-is-the-best-orioles-bar-in-new-york-city-20121007_1_orioles-fans-bar-east-village" target="_blank">Baltimore Sun article on it last year</a> and the owners are from Annapolis. It's at 14th St and Avenue A, really close to the 1st Ave subway stop on the L and not too terribly far from the NQR and 4-5-6 at Union Square.</p> <p>So with that in mind, are Saturdays best for people? Fridays? Weeknight drinking? I don't work normal people hours so I'm pretty open to just about any night, but I know that's not true for most people. So I'm just gonna randomly throw a few dates out there to see what we can come up with:</p> <p>Saturday, June 1 (4 p.m. vs. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/detroit-tigers" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a>)<br>Friday, June 7 (7 p.m. @ <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/tampa-bay-rays" class="sbn-auto-link">Rays</a>)<br>Saturday, June 8 (4 p.m. @ Rays)</p> <p>Let's do this.</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/5/3/4296822/nyc-camden-chat-game-watching-meetup CStoneNo37 2013-05-03T14:58:18Z 2013-05-03T14:58:18Z <p> I would like to address my fellow <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> fans in the DC area as well as inform the fans from Baltimore that not everyone in DC has a Natitude problem. Some of us were baseball fans before 2004. More importantly, I would like to point out the positive effect the gNats bandwagon has had on the makeup of the DC chapter of the Orioles fanbase. The arrival of the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/washington-nationals" class="sbn-auto-link">Nationals</a> has served as a sort of an ethnic cleansing for the DC contingent if Orioles fans. The contingent has reduced in size, but has, at the same time, has increased in quality. It is now a more selective fraternity whose members are unified by their collective refusal to be disloyal to the baseball team of their childhood. The temptation to root for a baseball team in your hometown is a strong one, especially when that team lucked into two phenomenal talents by having the 1st overall pick in two consecutive years. Two of the most talented players in recent history became available in back to back years and the Nationals just happened to be able to land both of them. Yet some of us refused to be turned. If Adam and Eve were baseball fans in DC, they would be driving the Nats bandwagon. Orioles fans in DC should be commended for their resolve. Thankfully, the team has finally begun to reward your loyalty. After enduring 1 and 1/2 decades of losing, we are finally getting our well deserved taste of Oriole magic. Savor it, brethren. You have earned it.<br></p> <p> I would like to address my fellow <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> fans in the DC area as well as inform the fans from Baltimore that not everyone in DC has a Natitude problem. Some of us were baseball fans before 2004. More importantly, I would like to point out the positive effect the gNats bandwagon has had on the makeup of the DC chapter of the Orioles fanbase. The arrival of the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/washington-nationals" class="sbn-auto-link">Nationals</a> has served as a sort of an ethnic cleansing for the DC contingent if Orioles fans. The contingent has reduced in size, but has, at the same time, has increased in quality. It is now a more selective fraternity whose members are unified by their collective refusal to be disloyal to the baseball team of their childhood. The temptation to root for a baseball team in your hometown is a strong one, especially when that team lucked into two phenomenal talents by having the 1st overall pick in two consecutive years. Two of the most talented players in recent history became available in back to back years and the Nationals just happened to be able to land both of them. Yet some of us refused to be turned. If Adam and Eve were baseball fans in DC, they would be driving the Nats bandwagon. Orioles fans in DC should be commended for their resolve. Thankfully, the team has finally begun to reward your loyalty. After enduring 1 and 1/2 decades of losing, we are finally getting our well deserved taste of Oriole magic. Savor it, brethren. You have earned it.<br></p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/5/3/4296716/d-c-orioles-fans-state-of-the-union-address MattTweeters 2013-05-02T19:58:01Z 2013-05-02T19:58:01Z <p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1586819/stock-photo-blue-handicap-parking-or-wheelchair-accessible-sign-in-parking-16352797.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1586819/stock-photo-blue-handicap-parking-or-wheelchair-accessible-sign-in-parking-16352797_medium.jpg" alt="Stock-photo-blue-handicap-parking-or-wheelchair-accessible-sign-in-parking-16352797_medium"></a></p> <p>via <a href="http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/9107/9107,1219254776,1/stock-photo-blue-handicap-parking-or-wheelchair-accessible-sign-in-parking-16352797.jpg">image.shutterstock.com</a></p> <p>NEW YORK -- <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/new-york-yankees" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Yankees</a> Managing General Partner Hal Steinbrenner and General Partner Henry G. Steinbrenner met this afternoon in an emergency meeting to discuss what could become a virulent problem: the players cannot find parking to get to the clubhouse.</p> <p>The 2013 season for the team has provided injury upon injury, and players have clogged the handicapped parking located near the main entrances of the stadium. Management has hoped to install more handicapped parking, but resources are limited.</p> <p>"Personally, I find it disgraceful," said recent-DL member <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/4337/joba-chamberlain" class="sbn-auto-link">Joba Chamberlain</a>, strained oblique. "How am I supposed to get in the sauna when I can't park by the door? Hope they don't expect me to walk all the way from 153 Street, because I haven't walked that far in decades."</p> <p>Steinbrenner et all have allegedly sought the expertise of local geriatric centers, and even brought on health care advisors to consult on their logistical parking lock-down, a source close to the issue said.</p> <p>For some players, it might be too little too late.</p> <p>"You've got to be [expletive] kidding me," said <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/96/mark-teixeira" class="sbn-auto-link">Mark Teixeira</a>, wrist. "Some of these people I've never even met, but their cars are here every day, in my spot. I mean, Alex [Rodriguez] always parked in the handicapped spots, even when healthy, but he's [expletive] ARod. Who the [expletive] is <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/129024/cesar-cabral" class="sbn-auto-link">Cesar Cabral</a>?"</p> <p>Rodriguez had little to say on the matter.</p> <p>When contacted by email, the fragile third-baseman responded, "No fatties allowed. Tits or GTFO."</p> <p>Clubhouse veteran <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/610/andy-pettitte" class="sbn-auto-link">Andy Pettitte</a> has emerged as possible the only mediator between a furious team and what seems like a complacent and disconnected front office.</p> <p>"I have connections with Hoveround, and have hooked up a lot of our guys for a quick fix," said the 18-year veteran. </p> <p>Public opinion has been mixed regarding the situation, which has left handicapped fans with virtually no access to the stadium. As members of the active 25-man roster continue to clog the handicapped spots at an increasing rate, a breaking point is inevitable.</p> <p>"Yeah I don't think the fans will care," said <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31106/francisco-cervelli" class="sbn-auto-link">Francisco Cervelli</a>, broken hand. "I mean, we're the Yankees, and who are they? We just call them 'plainies.'"</p> <p>More details are sure to surface as the situation plays out. </p> <p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1586819/stock-photo-blue-handicap-parking-or-wheelchair-accessible-sign-in-parking-16352797.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1586819/stock-photo-blue-handicap-parking-or-wheelchair-accessible-sign-in-parking-16352797_medium.jpg" alt="Stock-photo-blue-handicap-parking-or-wheelchair-accessible-sign-in-parking-16352797_medium"></a></p> <p>via <a href="http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/9107/9107,1219254776,1/stock-photo-blue-handicap-parking-or-wheelchair-accessible-sign-in-parking-16352797.jpg">image.shutterstock.com</a></p> <p>NEW YORK -- <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/new-york-yankees" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Yankees</a> Managing General Partner Hal Steinbrenner and General Partner Henry G. Steinbrenner met this afternoon in an emergency meeting to discuss what could become a virulent problem: the players cannot find parking to get to the clubhouse.</p> <p>The 2013 season for the team has provided injury upon injury, and players have clogged the handicapped parking located near the main entrances of the stadium. Management has hoped to install more handicapped parking, but resources are limited.</p> <p>"Personally, I find it disgraceful," said recent-DL member <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/4337/joba-chamberlain" class="sbn-auto-link">Joba Chamberlain</a>, strained oblique. "How am I supposed to get in the sauna when I can't park by the door? Hope they don't expect me to walk all the way from 153 Street, because I haven't walked that far in decades."</p> <p>Steinbrenner et all have allegedly sought the expertise of local geriatric centers, and even brought on health care advisors to consult on their logistical parking lock-down, a source close to the issue said.</p> <p>For some players, it might be too little too late.</p> <p>"You've got to be [expletive] kidding me," said <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/96/mark-teixeira" class="sbn-auto-link">Mark Teixeira</a>, wrist. "Some of these people I've never even met, but their cars are here every day, in my spot. I mean, Alex [Rodriguez] always parked in the handicapped spots, even when healthy, but he's [expletive] ARod. Who the [expletive] is <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/129024/cesar-cabral" class="sbn-auto-link">Cesar Cabral</a>?"</p> <p>Rodriguez had little to say on the matter.</p> <p>When contacted by email, the fragile third-baseman responded, "No fatties allowed. Tits or GTFO."</p> <p>Clubhouse veteran <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/610/andy-pettitte" class="sbn-auto-link">Andy Pettitte</a> has emerged as possible the only mediator between a furious team and what seems like a complacent and disconnected front office.</p> <p>"I have connections with Hoveround, and have hooked up a lot of our guys for a quick fix," said the 18-year veteran. </p> <p>Public opinion has been mixed regarding the situation, which has left handicapped fans with virtually no access to the stadium. As members of the active 25-man roster continue to clog the handicapped spots at an increasing rate, a breaking point is inevitable.</p> <p>"Yeah I don't think the fans will care," said <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31106/francisco-cervelli" class="sbn-auto-link">Francisco Cervelli</a>, broken hand. "I mean, we're the Yankees, and who are they? We just call them 'plainies.'"</p> <p>More details are sure to surface as the situation plays out. </p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/5/2/4294404/hal-steinbrenner-promises-more-handicapped-parking-at-yankee-stadium Joe Davola 2013-04-22T21:34:48Z 2013-04-22T21:34:48Z <p>In other news, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/69354/jake-arrieta" class="sbn-auto-link">Jake Arrieta</a> was sent down to the minors, Triple A, Norfolk, while <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/70809/alex-burnett" class="sbn-auto-link">Alex Burnett</a> was called up to take his place (assumingly). One would wonder how long Buck's patience would be with Jake and after going less than 6 innings for the 4th straight game to start the year, Jake was sent packing down south. I, for one, am happy about this decision. But is it really going to make a difference in the long-run? </p> <p>Last year, the same process took place, and Jake was called back up when the rosters were expanded in September. Except last year, he became a member of the bullpen. I don't even know if the bullpen is the answer for Jake. Unless you are calling him in for 1 or 2 batters. And to waste a spot in the bullpen on a right-hander who can only face 1 or 2 batters seems pointless. </p> <p>Frankly, I would see what we could get for him in the trade market at this point. Consider our issues at second and DH, their has to be a veteran out there that we can trade for to push up the numbers for one of these two positions (second or DH). Even if the slash line only goes up by 50 points across the board and a couple homeruns and rbis, that's more production than we are getting now, and it's a double win, since Jake is just giving away runs to the oppositions (16 walks in 19 innings, and a HB). </p> <p>Just some thoughts to discuss... :) I don't write these often, maybe 3 a year, so be gentle! I've added a poll at the end for the first time ever...</p> <p>James</p> <p>In other news, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/69354/jake-arrieta" class="sbn-auto-link">Jake Arrieta</a> was sent down to the minors, Triple A, Norfolk, while <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/70809/alex-burnett" class="sbn-auto-link">Alex Burnett</a> was called up to take his place (assumingly). One would wonder how long Buck's patience would be with Jake and after going less than 6 innings for the 4th straight game to start the year, Jake was sent packing down south. I, for one, am happy about this decision. But is it really going to make a difference in the long-run? </p> <p>Last year, the same process took place, and Jake was called back up when the rosters were expanded in September. Except last year, he became a member of the bullpen. I don't even know if the bullpen is the answer for Jake. Unless you are calling him in for 1 or 2 batters. And to waste a spot in the bullpen on a right-hander who can only face 1 or 2 batters seems pointless. </p> <p>Frankly, I would see what we could get for him in the trade market at this point. Consider our issues at second and DH, their has to be a veteran out there that we can trade for to push up the numbers for one of these two positions (second or DH). Even if the slash line only goes up by 50 points across the board and a couple homeruns and rbis, that's more production than we are getting now, and it's a double win, since Jake is just giving away runs to the oppositions (16 walks in 19 innings, and a HB). </p> <p>Just some thoughts to discuss... :) I don't write these often, maybe 3 a year, so be gentle! I've added a poll at the end for the first time ever...</p> <p>James</p> <fieldset class="poll-box"> <legend>Poll</legend> <h5 class="poll-title">What would you do with Arrietta now?</h5> <div id="poll_container_175665_774864551" class="poll_container"> <div class="poll_option clearfix"> <div class="poll_option_percentage" style="display:none">20%</div> <div class="poll_option_result"> <h5>Come back up to the majors as a starter</h5> <div class="poll_option_bar"><span class="vote_count">3</span> votes</div> </div> </div> <div class="poll_option clearfix"> <div class="poll_option_percentage" style="display:none">0%</div> <div class="poll_option_result"> <h5>Come back up to the majors as a reliever</h5> <div class="poll_option_bar"><span class="vote_count">0</span> votes</div> </div> </div> <div class="poll_option clearfix"> <div class="poll_option_percentage" style="display:none">47%</div> <div class="poll_option_result"> <h5>Trade him - too many free passes!!</h5> <div class="poll_option_bar"><span class="vote_count">7</span> votes</div> </div> </div> <div class="poll_option clearfix"> <div class="poll_option_percentage" style="display:none">7%</div> <div class="poll_option_result"> <h5>Release him</h5> <div class="poll_option_bar"><span class="vote_count">1</span> votes</div> </div> </div> <div class="poll_option clearfix"> <div class="poll_option_percentage" style="display:none">27%</div> <div class="poll_option_result"> <h5>Keep him in the minors</h5> <div class="poll_option_bar"><span class="vote_count">4</span> votes</div> </div> </div> <p class="poll-total-votes"><strong>15</strong> votes | <span class="poll-has-closed">Poll has closed</span> </p> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(document).ready(function(){ new SBN.Poll('poll_container_175665_774864551').animateResults({renderImmediately:true}); }); </script> </fieldset> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/4/22/4254014/jake-arrieta-sent-down-alex-burnett-called-up luvmymeg33 2013-04-09T02:07:06Z 2013-04-09T02:07:06Z <p>Let's face it - <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/5/brian-roberts" class="sbn-auto-link">Brian Roberts</a> is no longer the answer at second base. He's always hurt and who knows what's left in his tank even if he weren't? <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/107802/ryan-flaherty" class="sbn-auto-link">Ryan Flaherty</a> is not hitting, and although he will at some point - he's a big, strong, intelligent, talented kid - he still has never played above Double-A until last year. He's having problems hitting anything that is not a fastball, which epitomizes growing pains. And <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/738/alexi-casilla" class="sbn-auto-link">Alexi Casilla</a>, if he is not run out of town by fans who disapprove of his efforts - or lack thereof - at running out ground balls, is not any answer, either. He's a bench player; a late-inning defensive replacement.</p> <p>So what second baseman from the heavens can we obtain at a lowly, real-world cost that will solidify our weakest position?</p> <p>How about <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/188/chase-utley" class="sbn-auto-link">Chase Utley</a>?</p> <p>My wife is a big <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/philadelphia-phillies" class="sbn-auto-link">Phillies</a> fan, so we share the TV inning by inning when both games are on at the same time. Thus I get to see their team as well as my own, and Utley is starting to recover from last year's injury quite nicely.</p> <p>And if you think that he is out of our league, so to speak, he's not. Consider: he is 34 years old and will be a free agent at the end of this year. Additionally, he's injury prone. And if the Phillies continue on their recent path of cleaning house and rebuilding - albeit not very well at either - they'll probably be thrilled to get rid of Chase for a halfway decent player or prospect. No organizational filler, but no Baseball America lovebird, either. And that's a fair price - no way Utley, as he now stands, will bring them the sun and the moon.</p> <p>They will, of course, start off asking for Gausman or Bundy, and we will say no, and then they will want Jonathon Schoop, but we will say no and they will likely settle for someone less - let's say <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/152095/mike-wright" class="sbn-auto-link">Mike Wright</a>, or someone similar, to get the job done. Wright is a good prospect, but somebody has to go, and remember that Philadelphia Minor League Director Joe Jordan knows our talent and we have to pick someone at some point. Doesn't have to be Wright, but that's the ladder rung of talent, as I see it, at which we are looking. </p> <p>Unless, of course, it is the Jake! No, not the stadium; the pitcher. Yes, I know; Arietta has four pitches and he can throw them all for strikes. And let us not forget that every team in baseball would love to have him. After all, we have been told that enough by everyone who inhabits the MASN broadcast booth. Would that it were true, but the results over and over again would deem to suggest otherwise. There must come a point at which Jake will simply have to become a superstar elsewhere. </p> <p>As for Chase, he'd probably be thrilled to join a pennant race. Extend him through next season at a moderate price and I'd bet that he will be your classic change-of-scenery guy. And after him, Schoop will be ready.</p> <p>Chase Utley could be a difference maker, and he can do it this season. As in right now. And the sooner we start, the more time we will have him. So we should hop right on this one. Wouldn't it be great to finally settle the second base issue at last? Of course, the same issues that could drive him out of Philly could haunt us as well, but I suspect it won't. Watching him this season has made me somewhat confident that he can handle a measly year and a half in fine health, spirits, and talent.</p> <p>Yes? No? Maybe? Your thoughts?</p> <p>-- Ben Caplan.</p> <p>Let's face it - <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/5/brian-roberts" class="sbn-auto-link">Brian Roberts</a> is no longer the answer at second base. He's always hurt and who knows what's left in his tank even if he weren't? <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/107802/ryan-flaherty" class="sbn-auto-link">Ryan Flaherty</a> is not hitting, and although he will at some point - he's a big, strong, intelligent, talented kid - he still has never played above Double-A until last year. He's having problems hitting anything that is not a fastball, which epitomizes growing pains. And <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/738/alexi-casilla" class="sbn-auto-link">Alexi Casilla</a>, if he is not run out of town by fans who disapprove of his efforts - or lack thereof - at running out ground balls, is not any answer, either. He's a bench player; a late-inning defensive replacement.</p> <p>So what second baseman from the heavens can we obtain at a lowly, real-world cost that will solidify our weakest position?</p> <p>How about <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/188/chase-utley" class="sbn-auto-link">Chase Utley</a>?</p> <p>My wife is a big <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/philadelphia-phillies" class="sbn-auto-link">Phillies</a> fan, so we share the TV inning by inning when both games are on at the same time. Thus I get to see their team as well as my own, and Utley is starting to recover from last year's injury quite nicely.</p> <p>And if you think that he is out of our league, so to speak, he's not. Consider: he is 34 years old and will be a free agent at the end of this year. Additionally, he's injury prone. And if the Phillies continue on their recent path of cleaning house and rebuilding - albeit not very well at either - they'll probably be thrilled to get rid of Chase for a halfway decent player or prospect. No organizational filler, but no Baseball America lovebird, either. And that's a fair price - no way Utley, as he now stands, will bring them the sun and the moon.</p> <p>They will, of course, start off asking for Gausman or Bundy, and we will say no, and then they will want Jonathon Schoop, but we will say no and they will likely settle for someone less - let's say <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/152095/mike-wright" class="sbn-auto-link">Mike Wright</a>, or someone similar, to get the job done. Wright is a good prospect, but somebody has to go, and remember that Philadelphia Minor League Director Joe Jordan knows our talent and we have to pick someone at some point. Doesn't have to be Wright, but that's the ladder rung of talent, as I see it, at which we are looking. </p> <p>Unless, of course, it is the Jake! No, not the stadium; the pitcher. Yes, I know; Arietta has four pitches and he can throw them all for strikes. And let us not forget that every team in baseball would love to have him. After all, we have been told that enough by everyone who inhabits the MASN broadcast booth. Would that it were true, but the results over and over again would deem to suggest otherwise. There must come a point at which Jake will simply have to become a superstar elsewhere. </p> <p>As for Chase, he'd probably be thrilled to join a pennant race. Extend him through next season at a moderate price and I'd bet that he will be your classic change-of-scenery guy. And after him, Schoop will be ready.</p> <p>Chase Utley could be a difference maker, and he can do it this season. As in right now. And the sooner we start, the more time we will have him. So we should hop right on this one. Wouldn't it be great to finally settle the second base issue at last? Of course, the same issues that could drive him out of Philly could haunt us as well, but I suspect it won't. Watching him this season has made me somewhat confident that he can handle a measly year and a half in fine health, spirits, and talent.</p> <p>Yes? No? Maybe? Your thoughts?</p> <p>-- Ben Caplan.</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/4/8/4203076/whom-can-we-get-to-fix-our-second-base-problem Fang Guy 2013-04-07T23:41:20Z 2013-04-07T23:41:20Z <p>Wow. I gotta admit, even as cynical as I am, that I didn't dream that neither Roberts nor Reimold would fail to last so much as a week. Both injuries seem on the surface to be of the routine 15-day DL variety, yet one already knows that is not true, because they are who they are. Even if they come back on time, which is unlikely to the max, they will simply hurt something else quickly enough. In the meantime, who is the DH? <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/17625/steve-pearce" class="sbn-auto-link">Steve Pearce</a>?</p> <p>Star-crossed lovers, said the Bard. (And while I should not have to explain, I will anyway when I say that I am speaking figuratively.)</p> <p>Say what you will about strikeouts and low batting averages and it's only the first week and WAR and UZI and yada yada yada, but there can no longer be any question that the very few of us who knew the Reynolds heave-ho was a monster mistake have turned out to be right in a big way. And the kicker is that we are not geniuses - it could not have been more clear that we needed the guy at bat and over there at first base. Why so few others saw that is beyond me. I remember the "Wall to Wall" crowd - Tom, Dave, and Viv - if memory serves, even Roch Kubatko was baffled at the move - wondering the exact same thing.</p> <p>If there is any confusion, google <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/688/mark-reynolds" class="sbn-auto-link">Mark Reynolds</a> and check out his first week's stats. Woulda fit right in with Jonesy and Crash Davis, would he have not? I won't say we would now be 6-0, but I would not rule it out, either. Would you?</p> <p>And while my respect for Dan and Buck is second to none on the whole, I nevertheless hope that Mark sticks it in their faces all summer. It would serve them right. Yet here is the kicker - they simply need to rectify their mistake after the season. No biggie. Doing it on the cheap will no longer be a viable option, but this is where he belongs, so I hope he harbors no ill will for not even getting the courtesy of a phone call or a thank you and a "job well done."</p> <p>We need Mark Reynolds back in Baltimore.</p> <p>Wow. I gotta admit, even as cynical as I am, that I didn't dream that neither Roberts nor Reimold would fail to last so much as a week. Both injuries seem on the surface to be of the routine 15-day DL variety, yet one already knows that is not true, because they are who they are. Even if they come back on time, which is unlikely to the max, they will simply hurt something else quickly enough. In the meantime, who is the DH? <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/17625/steve-pearce" class="sbn-auto-link">Steve Pearce</a>?</p> <p>Star-crossed lovers, said the Bard. (And while I should not have to explain, I will anyway when I say that I am speaking figuratively.)</p> <p>Say what you will about strikeouts and low batting averages and it's only the first week and WAR and UZI and yada yada yada, but there can no longer be any question that the very few of us who knew the Reynolds heave-ho was a monster mistake have turned out to be right in a big way. And the kicker is that we are not geniuses - it could not have been more clear that we needed the guy at bat and over there at first base. Why so few others saw that is beyond me. I remember the "Wall to Wall" crowd - Tom, Dave, and Viv - if memory serves, even Roch Kubatko was baffled at the move - wondering the exact same thing.</p> <p>If there is any confusion, google <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/688/mark-reynolds" class="sbn-auto-link">Mark Reynolds</a> and check out his first week's stats. Woulda fit right in with Jonesy and Crash Davis, would he have not? I won't say we would now be 6-0, but I would not rule it out, either. Would you?</p> <p>And while my respect for Dan and Buck is second to none on the whole, I nevertheless hope that Mark sticks it in their faces all summer. It would serve them right. Yet here is the kicker - they simply need to rectify their mistake after the season. No biggie. Doing it on the cheap will no longer be a viable option, but this is where he belongs, so I hope he harbors no ill will for not even getting the courtesy of a phone call or a thank you and a "job well done."</p> <p>We need Mark Reynolds back in Baltimore.</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/4/7/4194876/time-for-buck-and-dan-to-correct-their-mistake Fang Guy 2013-04-06T15:02:22Z 2013-04-06T15:02:22Z <p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1540431/149033_926842767819_1900183320_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1540431/149033_926842767819_1900183320_n_medium.jpg" alt="149033_926842767819_1900183320_n_medium"></a></p> <p>via <a href="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/149033_926842767819_1900183320_n.jpg">sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net</a></p> <p><br> Last night the Norfolk Tides were met by the Durham Bulls at Harbor Park to open their 2013 AAA season. On a chilly night in front of an announced 3,200, fans were treated to what looked like a Sarasota hangover.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/152555/zach-clark" class="sbn-auto-link">Zach Clark</a>, who led the O's minor league system in wins last year, looked sharp in his first inning of work, retiring the side in 7 pitches. LJ Hoes, a great guy with a great mustache, singled and was driven in by <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/70829/russ-canzler" class="sbn-auto-link">Russ Canzler's</a> double.</p> <p> </p> <p>The second inning box score shows 3 Durham runs, but it was not all Clark's fault. The inning began with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/108382/leslie-anderson" class="sbn-auto-link">Leslie Anderson</a> taking a pitch to the foot, and he would come around to score the only unquestionable run. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31780/travis-ishikawa" class="sbn-auto-link">Travis Ishikawa</a>, signed this offseason for his glove work, did not help his pitcher. The former Brewer and his .995 lifetime fielding percentage looked terrible at first base, misplaying a ground ball in the inning and then letting Rich Thompson bunt his way on board by failing to communicate with Clark on the play.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/68495/chris-archer" class="sbn-auto-link">Chris Archer</a> looked dialed in the whole night for Durham. He pitched like a guy who is the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/tampa-bay-rays" class="sbn-auto-link">Rays</a> fourth prospect for a reason, facing a lineup from Norfolk stacked with former MLB starters and mostly shutting them down. Not many balls were hit hard on the night.</p> <p> </p> <p>Zach Clark was visibly frustrated with his performance. Call it an Arrieta special: he did not let walks hurt him, struck out a fair amount, but still turned in an ugly game. It was easy to see why he got the Opening Day start, but his transition from "prospect" to "organizational guy" will not be far away if he keeps turning in outings like this one.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>The Upside</b>: Hard to find tonight. Jonathan Schoop went oh-fer at the plate, but looked good in the field. The best performance may have been selective moments from Clark, who held top prospect <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/129891/wil-myers" class="sbn-auto-link">Wil Myers</a> to no hits and made him look like a normal dude with a bat, as opposed to the next big thing.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>The Downside</b>: For a team many think could take a series from Houston or Florida, the Tides looked absolutely terrible. You had to think all of the former-MLB talent picked up by Dan Duquette showed up last night to Norfolk with a depression, expecting to be back in The Show at that point. That, at least, is how they played. Maybe Danny Valencia, who is a total brodeo star, was bummed by missing the call-up with the Roberts injury. Maybe Luis Exposito hates <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31578/taylor-teagarden" class="sbn-auto-link">Taylor Teagarden</a> and thinks he should be the backup, and couldn't let it go. Whatever the reason, I hope they get over it and play more inspired ball as the season goes on.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>Fun Fact</b>: In the shop at the stadium, they have an <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/32/erik-bedard" class="sbn-auto-link">Erik Bedard</a> and a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/36/melvin-mora" class="sbn-auto-link">Melvin Mora</a> jersey for sale for $25. Who wants a bargain!?</p> <p> </p> <p><b>Overheard in the stands</b>: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/32258/chris-tillman" class="sbn-auto-link">Chris Tillman</a> is a man who loves, nay, craves his strip clubs. Last year he routinely had a different stripper in the players section looking for him. I can believe it.</p> <p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1540431/149033_926842767819_1900183320_n.jpg"><img class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1540431/149033_926842767819_1900183320_n_medium.jpg" alt="149033_926842767819_1900183320_n_medium"></a></p> <p>via <a href="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/149033_926842767819_1900183320_n.jpg">sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net</a></p> <p><br> Last night the Norfolk Tides were met by the Durham Bulls at Harbor Park to open their 2013 AAA season. On a chilly night in front of an announced 3,200, fans were treated to what looked like a Sarasota hangover.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/152555/zach-clark" class="sbn-auto-link">Zach Clark</a>, who led the O's minor league system in wins last year, looked sharp in his first inning of work, retiring the side in 7 pitches. LJ Hoes, a great guy with a great mustache, singled and was driven in by <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/70829/russ-canzler" class="sbn-auto-link">Russ Canzler's</a> double.</p> <p> </p> <p>The second inning box score shows 3 Durham runs, but it was not all Clark's fault. The inning began with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/108382/leslie-anderson" class="sbn-auto-link">Leslie Anderson</a> taking a pitch to the foot, and he would come around to score the only unquestionable run. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31780/travis-ishikawa" class="sbn-auto-link">Travis Ishikawa</a>, signed this offseason for his glove work, did not help his pitcher. The former Brewer and his .995 lifetime fielding percentage looked terrible at first base, misplaying a ground ball in the inning and then letting Rich Thompson bunt his way on board by failing to communicate with Clark on the play.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/68495/chris-archer" class="sbn-auto-link">Chris Archer</a> looked dialed in the whole night for Durham. He pitched like a guy who is the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/tampa-bay-rays" class="sbn-auto-link">Rays</a> fourth prospect for a reason, facing a lineup from Norfolk stacked with former MLB starters and mostly shutting them down. Not many balls were hit hard on the night.</p> <p> </p> <p>Zach Clark was visibly frustrated with his performance. Call it an Arrieta special: he did not let walks hurt him, struck out a fair amount, but still turned in an ugly game. It was easy to see why he got the Opening Day start, but his transition from "prospect" to "organizational guy" will not be far away if he keeps turning in outings like this one.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>The Upside</b>: Hard to find tonight. Jonathan Schoop went oh-fer at the plate, but looked good in the field. The best performance may have been selective moments from Clark, who held top prospect <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/129891/wil-myers" class="sbn-auto-link">Wil Myers</a> to no hits and made him look like a normal dude with a bat, as opposed to the next big thing.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>The Downside</b>: For a team many think could take a series from Houston or Florida, the Tides looked absolutely terrible. You had to think all of the former-MLB talent picked up by Dan Duquette showed up last night to Norfolk with a depression, expecting to be back in The Show at that point. That, at least, is how they played. Maybe Danny Valencia, who is a total brodeo star, was bummed by missing the call-up with the Roberts injury. Maybe Luis Exposito hates <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31578/taylor-teagarden" class="sbn-auto-link">Taylor Teagarden</a> and thinks he should be the backup, and couldn't let it go. Whatever the reason, I hope they get over it and play more inspired ball as the season goes on.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>Fun Fact</b>: In the shop at the stadium, they have an <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/32/erik-bedard" class="sbn-auto-link">Erik Bedard</a> and a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/36/melvin-mora" class="sbn-auto-link">Melvin Mora</a> jersey for sale for $25. Who wants a bargain!?</p> <p> </p> <p><b>Overheard in the stands</b>: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/32258/chris-tillman" class="sbn-auto-link">Chris Tillman</a> is a man who loves, nay, craves his strip clubs. Last year he routinely had a different stripper in the players section looking for him. I can believe it.</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/4/6/4190250/if-you-were-there-april-5-2013-norfolk-tides-home-opener Joe Davola 2013-04-01T16:24:32Z 2013-04-01T16:24:32Z <p>So I'm brushing my teeth last night with the ESPN <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/texas-rangers" class="sbn-auto-link">Rangers</a>-<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/houston-astros" class="sbn-auto-link">Astros</a> game on in the other room and I hear them mention that El Presidente, Dennis Martinez is the Astros bullpen coach this season. I listen a little closer; Dan Schulman says some nice words and then its back to the game. One of the things he said got me to thinking. Those words were "245 career wins". "Wow", I thought. I never realized it was that many. I had followed him when he was an Oriole at the beginning of his career; he had some success, had alcohol problems, the press wasn't kind to him, then off to the National League. I knew about his perfect game and that he had pitched many years in Montreal; but two hundred forty-five wins? Wow. Here's the question that ran through my head: I've never thought him to be a HOF'er (and after looking at his stats still don't), but we've heard all this talk in the last couple of years about Blyleven vs. Morris. Why isn't Dennis included in the discussion. I'll spare you the stats (you're at work with time to waste too, you can look them up on Baseball Reference), but Dennis' is in in the same neighborhood as the other two. Not quite as good; some numbers are better; some are worse; but in the same neighborhood. Here are the stats that matter; HOF votes 2011: Blyleven 463 (elected) Morris 311 2012: Morris 382 2013: Morris 385 Not one vote for Dennis. Not even on the ballot anymore. I could not find historical vote totals. Did he not make the 5% hurdle early after his playing career? Did the writers screw him over. What? Anybody know? I'll go with "he was good but not great"; but if those other two are still getting hundreds of votes 20 years after their playing careers ended, so should Dennis. He should be in the conversation.</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/4/1/4170582/dennis-martinez bakely 2013-03-31T03:42:34Z 2013-03-31T03:42:34Z <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/865/frank-thomas" class="sbn-auto-link">Frank Thomas</a>, MLB.com analyst, and all-round good dude, is calling the AL EAST for the O's. And their decent columnist Castrovince is too.</p> <p>3 out of 20 polled are calling it for the O's to win the division in total. And two, including Jim Duquette, called the O's to win the wild card. That makes 5.</p> <p>Me, I think the O's could win the division. I think they could win 95 games. I don't think the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/tampa-bay-rays" class="sbn-auto-link">Rays</a> have the bullpen or the bats. But I gotta say, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/detroit-tigers" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a> + <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/los-angeles-angels" class="sbn-auto-link">Angels</a> look re-lee good.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130328&content_id=43434754&c_id=">HERE IS THE LINK TO THE MLB STORY</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/865/frank-thomas" class="sbn-auto-link">Frank Thomas</a>, MLB.com analyst, and all-round good dude, is calling the AL EAST for the O's. And their decent columnist Castrovince is too.</p> <p>3 out of 20 polled are calling it for the O's to win the division in total. And two, including Jim Duquette, called the O's to win the wild card. That makes 5.</p> <p>Me, I think the O's could win the division. I think they could win 95 games. I don't think the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/tampa-bay-rays" class="sbn-auto-link">Rays</a> have the bullpen or the bats. But I gotta say, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/detroit-tigers" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a> + <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/los-angeles-angels" class="sbn-auto-link">Angels</a> look re-lee good.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130328&content_id=43434754&c_id=">HERE IS THE LINK TO THE MLB STORY</a></p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/3/30/4166352/there-are-apparently-some-intelligent-prognosticators-at-mlb-com O' s Fan in L.A. 2013-03-29T02:43:21Z 2013-03-29T02:43:21Z <p>In 2012 the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> Legends Celebration and the 20th Anniversary of OPaCY served as ample inspiration for promotional giveaways and discounts for Orioles fans (even if the throwback pricing came a bit late in the year), the Orioles <a href="http://baltimore.orioles.mlb.com/schedule/promotions.jsp?c_id=bal">2013 promotional schedule </a>leaves much to be desired. That particular topic has been covered in detail <a href="http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/3/26/4146538/baltimore-orioles-season-tickets-promotions">elsewhere</a>, so here I'll look at the promotions offered by the local MiLB affiliates of the parent club (note that as of this post, no promotional events have been released for the short-season Aberdeen IronBirds).</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <h2>Delmarva Shorebirds</h2> <p>Duck's local MiLB affiliate is currently wrapping up it's "30 Days of Opening Day" promotion that began on March 5th and ends on April 5th. Fans were encouraged to Instagram, Tweet, Facebook and otherwise show off their Shorebirds pride for a chance to win tickets, apparel and other prizes. Retruning promotions include Thirsty Thursday and Big Beer Friday, among other family-friendly events.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Highlights:</strong> Friday May 5th, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/130203/manny-machado" class="sbn-auto-link">Manny Machado</a> replica jersey (first 1,000 fans), Friday August 2nd, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/149456/dylan-bundy" class="sbn-auto-link">Dylan Bundy</a> Bobblehead/Pig Roast (first 1,000 fans for bobble).</p> <p> </p> <h2>Frederick Keys</h2> <p>The Carolina League High-A afilliate of the Birds will be giving away <em>three</em> bobbleheads (hear that, Warehouse!?) and Frederick Keys-themed Rubber Ducks in additon to an appearance by Sgt. Slughter. Oh and fireworks, lots and lots of fireworks.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Highlights:</strong> Saturday May 11th, Manny Machado Bobblehead (first 1,000 fans), Friday June 21st, Sgt. Slaughter appearance, Saturday July 13th, Dylan Bundy Bobblehead (first 1,000 fans), Friday August 23rd, Tim Kurkjian Bobblehead (first 1,000 fans).</p> <p> </p> <h2>Bowie Baysox</h2> <p>The Orioles' AA afilliate will also feature plenty of fireworks and kid-friendly activities, but I'm excited for one thing and one thing only: Beer. Dinners. What are beer dinners?</p> <p> </p> <blockquote>Each month of the season also features a beer dinner in the climate-controlled Diamond View Restaurant. Tickets include a two-hour all-you-can-eat buffet and three hour open bar.</blockquote> <p> </p> <p><strong>Highlights:</strong> Friday April 12th, Dylan Bundy/<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/188157/kevin-gausman" class="sbn-auto-link">Kevin Gausman</a> poster (first 500 fans age 3 and older), Friday May 24th, Mystery bobblehead (first 500 fans age 6 and older), Thursday July 11th, Justin Tucker bobblehead/leg (first 750 fans age 13 and over), Monday July 22nd, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/43/jim-johnson" class="sbn-auto-link">Jim Johnson</a> bobblehead (first 500 fans age 13 and over), Sunday August 18th, Manny Machado Garden Gnome (first 1,000 fans age 13 and over).</p> <p>In 2012 the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> Legends Celebration and the 20th Anniversary of OPaCY served as ample inspiration for promotional giveaways and discounts for Orioles fans (even if the throwback pricing came a bit late in the year), the Orioles <a href="http://baltimore.orioles.mlb.com/schedule/promotions.jsp?c_id=bal">2013 promotional schedule </a>leaves much to be desired. That particular topic has been covered in detail <a href="http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/3/26/4146538/baltimore-orioles-season-tickets-promotions">elsewhere</a>, so here I'll look at the promotions offered by the local MiLB affiliates of the parent club (note that as of this post, no promotional events have been released for the short-season Aberdeen IronBirds).</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <h2>Delmarva Shorebirds</h2> <p>Duck's local MiLB affiliate is currently wrapping up it's "30 Days of Opening Day" promotion that began on March 5th and ends on April 5th. Fans were encouraged to Instagram, Tweet, Facebook and otherwise show off their Shorebirds pride for a chance to win tickets, apparel and other prizes. Retruning promotions include Thirsty Thursday and Big Beer Friday, among other family-friendly events.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Highlights:</strong> Friday May 5th, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/130203/manny-machado" class="sbn-auto-link">Manny Machado</a> replica jersey (first 1,000 fans), Friday August 2nd, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/149456/dylan-bundy" class="sbn-auto-link">Dylan Bundy</a> Bobblehead/Pig Roast (first 1,000 fans for bobble).</p> <p> </p> <h2>Frederick Keys</h2> <p>The Carolina League High-A afilliate of the Birds will be giving away <em>three</em> bobbleheads (hear that, Warehouse!?) and Frederick Keys-themed Rubber Ducks in additon to an appearance by Sgt. Slughter. Oh and fireworks, lots and lots of fireworks.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Highlights:</strong> Saturday May 11th, Manny Machado Bobblehead (first 1,000 fans), Friday June 21st, Sgt. Slaughter appearance, Saturday July 13th, Dylan Bundy Bobblehead (first 1,000 fans), Friday August 23rd, Tim Kurkjian Bobblehead (first 1,000 fans).</p> <p> </p> <h2>Bowie Baysox</h2> <p>The Orioles' AA afilliate will also feature plenty of fireworks and kid-friendly activities, but I'm excited for one thing and one thing only: Beer. Dinners. What are beer dinners?</p> <p> </p> <blockquote>Each month of the season also features a beer dinner in the climate-controlled Diamond View Restaurant. Tickets include a two-hour all-you-can-eat buffet and three hour open bar.</blockquote> <p> </p> <p><strong>Highlights:</strong> Friday April 12th, Dylan Bundy/<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/188157/kevin-gausman" class="sbn-auto-link">Kevin Gausman</a> poster (first 500 fans age 3 and older), Friday May 24th, Mystery bobblehead (first 500 fans age 6 and older), Thursday July 11th, Justin Tucker bobblehead/leg (first 750 fans age 13 and over), Monday July 22nd, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/43/jim-johnson" class="sbn-auto-link">Jim Johnson</a> bobblehead (first 500 fans age 13 and over), Sunday August 18th, Manny Machado Garden Gnome (first 1,000 fans age 13 and over).</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/3/28/4158984/bobbles-beer-and-baseball-highlighting-os-affiliates-2013-promotional Andrew_Lew 2013-03-26T17:21:35Z 2013-03-26T17:21:35Z <p><br>Seriously.... Can anyone tell me why this is not the case. I read this morning that Dan Duquette has indicated that <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/107802/ryan-flaherty" class="sbn-auto-link">Ryan Flaherty</a> will by the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> primary DH while <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/894/wilson-betemit" class="sbn-auto-link">Wilson Betemit</a> is hurt... What the hell is he thinking?!? I love DD but come on man... Are you really telling me that you would rather have Reimold and McLouth platoon in LF so that Ryan Flaherty can be the DH. Reimold has a great bat, but he is not the best fielder and he certainly isn't a better fielder than <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/355/nate-mclouth" class="sbn-auto-link">Nate McLouth</a>... I personally believe that Nate Mclouth could be a gold glove candidate given a full season in left, combine that with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/4324/adam-jones" class="sbn-auto-link">Adam Jones</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/7/nick-markakis" class="sbn-auto-link">Nick Markakis</a> and the Orioles have one of the BEST defensive outfields in the game. Playing Reimold in the outfield seems like an unnecessary risk, him being in LF means that the DH is a weaker batter and that the defense is not as good. What is the point of having a DH if you aren't going to put a good hitter there. I like Ryan Flaherty, I think he has a decent bat too.... FOR A SECOND BASEMAN! In absolutely NO situation should he be the DH... Especially over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/32363/nolan-reimold" class="sbn-auto-link">Nolan Reimold</a>... or <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/687/conor-jackson" class="sbn-auto-link">Conor Jackson</a>... or <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/70829/russ-canzler" class="sbn-auto-link">Russ Canzler</a>.... Is there something that I don't know... What makes Flaherty more suited to DH than any of the names listed above. And let us not forget that Flaherty can play 2B,3B, RF, and LF making him much more valuable serving in a utility role or as an insurance policy in the event that B-Rob hurts himself... Am I wrong here... Is there something I am missing... Im really hoping that the Os come to their senses before the season starts. </p> <p><br>Seriously.... Can anyone tell me why this is not the case. I read this morning that Dan Duquette has indicated that <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/107802/ryan-flaherty" class="sbn-auto-link">Ryan Flaherty</a> will by the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/baltimore-orioles" class="sbn-auto-link">Orioles</a> primary DH while <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/894/wilson-betemit" class="sbn-auto-link">Wilson Betemit</a> is hurt... What the hell is he thinking?!? I love DD but come on man... Are you really telling me that you would rather have Reimold and McLouth platoon in LF so that Ryan Flaherty can be the DH. Reimold has a great bat, but he is not the best fielder and he certainly isn't a better fielder than <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/355/nate-mclouth" class="sbn-auto-link">Nate McLouth</a>... I personally believe that Nate Mclouth could be a gold glove candidate given a full season in left, combine that with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/4324/adam-jones" class="sbn-auto-link">Adam Jones</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/7/nick-markakis" class="sbn-auto-link">Nick Markakis</a> and the Orioles have one of the BEST defensive outfields in the game. Playing Reimold in the outfield seems like an unnecessary risk, him being in LF means that the DH is a weaker batter and that the defense is not as good. What is the point of having a DH if you aren't going to put a good hitter there. I like Ryan Flaherty, I think he has a decent bat too.... FOR A SECOND BASEMAN! In absolutely NO situation should he be the DH... Especially over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/32363/nolan-reimold" class="sbn-auto-link">Nolan Reimold</a>... or <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/687/conor-jackson" class="sbn-auto-link">Conor Jackson</a>... or <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/70829/russ-canzler" class="sbn-auto-link">Russ Canzler</a>.... Is there something that I don't know... What makes Flaherty more suited to DH than any of the names listed above. And let us not forget that Flaherty can play 2B,3B, RF, and LF making him much more valuable serving in a utility role or as an insurance policy in the event that B-Rob hurts himself... Am I wrong here... Is there something I am missing... Im really hoping that the Os come to their senses before the season starts. </p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/3/26/4149350/ryan-flaherty-to-start-season-at-dh-why-isnt-nolan-reimold-the The Buck Stops Here 2013-03-18T13:51:00Z 2013-03-18T13:51:00Z <img alt="152722974" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/9971181/152722974.0_standard_400.0.jpg" /> <p>The inaugural season of the CC Home Run Derby League was a resounding success, so we're bringing it back for 2013!</p> <p>The rules are simple. Pick a team of seven sluggers from Major League Baseball, and win prizes for hitting the most combined home runs. Any player can be chosen, and the same player can be on multiple teams. Those players are on your team for the entire year. Last year's league standings and results can be seen <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AoJYebNcNOAKdHVHZ0RDc2g1cmw5a3lNemlSUXZYdlE#gid=0">here</a> to give you an idea of how it works. Here's the catch though: The combined total of home runs hit by the players on your team in the 2012 season must be less than 162.</p> <p>That total home run number has increased from last year because we're adding a twist this year. If you so choose, you can pick 1 player to be on your "bench", while still adhering to the 162 home run limit from the 2012 season. The bench player's home run total will not count towards your overall home run total. At any point during the season, you can make one and only one substitution. At this time, you can move your bench player into your starting lineup and bench someone else. Once your one substitution is over, there is no going back. You have to stick with the seven starting players on your squad for the rest of the year. This will add a little strategy to the game, and it could increase your chances of winning should there be a serious injury to one of your starters (but there does not have to be an injury for you to make the switch).</p> <p>So your two choices upon entry into the league are thus:</p> <p>1. Submit a list of seven players whose combined home run total from the 2012 season does not exceed 162.</p> <p>2. Submit a list of eight players whose combined home run total from the 2012 season does not exceed 162. Designate one of those players as your Bench/Sub. At any point during the season, you can make one and only one substitution, bringing the bench player into your lineup and permanently benching one other player. Home runs hit by a player while "on the bench" do not count towards your total.</p> <p>Just like last year, there will be a 50 "high-five" entry fee, due to me in Paypal gift format by the beginning of the season. There will be a prize awarded for most team home runs in each month, as well as a prize for the overall leader at the All-Star Break, and of course the grand prize for the overall winner at the end of the season. Prize values will be determined by the number of entries, with roughly 1/3 of the pool going to monthly winners and 2/3 going to the ASB and overall winners.</p> <p>Entry fees and team player lists will be due to me by the start of the first game of the season (March 31). The email address to send both to is cornwell128 at gmail dot com.</p> <p><b>Update: I have made my selections and emailed them to a trusted former mod for safe keeping. This way I will not gain any unfair advantage by viewing everyone's selections. You may now begin emailing me your teams. </b></p> <p>Questions, concerns, or interest in joining the league? Put it in the comments below.</p> <p>The inaugural season of the CC Home Run Derby League was a resounding success, so we're bringing it back for 2013!</p> <p>The rules are simple. Pick a team of seven sluggers from Major League Baseball, and win prizes for hitting the most combined home runs. Any player can be chosen, and the same player can be on multiple teams. Those players are on your team for the entire year. Last year's league standings and results can be seen <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AoJYebNcNOAKdHVHZ0RDc2g1cmw5a3lNemlSUXZYdlE#gid=0">here</a> to give you an idea of how it works. Here's the catch though: The combined total of home runs hit by the players on your team in the 2012 season must be less than 162.</p> <p>That total home run number has increased from last year because we're adding a twist this year. If you so choose, you can pick 1 player to be on your "bench", while still adhering to the 162 home run limit from the 2012 season. The bench player's home run total will not count towards your overall home run total. At any point during the season, you can make one and only one substitution. At this time, you can move your bench player into your starting lineup and bench someone else. Once your one substitution is over, there is no going back. You have to stick with the seven starting players on your squad for the rest of the year. This will add a little strategy to the game, and it could increase your chances of winning should there be a serious injury to one of your starters (but there does not have to be an injury for you to make the switch).</p> <p>So your two choices upon entry into the league are thus:</p> <p>1. Submit a list of seven players whose combined home run total from the 2012 season does not exceed 162.</p> <p>2. Submit a list of eight players whose combined home run total from the 2012 season does not exceed 162. Designate one of those players as your Bench/Sub. At any point during the season, you can make one and only one substitution, bringing the bench player into your lineup and permanently benching one other player. Home runs hit by a player while "on the bench" do not count towards your total.</p> <p>Just like last year, there will be a 50 "high-five" entry fee, due to me in Paypal gift format by the beginning of the season. There will be a prize awarded for most team home runs in each month, as well as a prize for the overall leader at the All-Star Break, and of course the grand prize for the overall winner at the end of the season. Prize values will be determined by the number of entries, with roughly 1/3 of the pool going to monthly winners and 2/3 going to the ASB and overall winners.</p> <p>Entry fees and team player lists will be due to me by the start of the first game of the season (March 31). The email address to send both to is cornwell128 at gmail dot com.</p> <p><b>Update: I have made my selections and emailed them to a trusted former mod for safe keeping. This way I will not gain any unfair advantage by viewing everyone's selections. You may now begin emailing me your teams. </b></p> <p>Questions, concerns, or interest in joining the league? Put it in the comments below.</p> http://www.camdenchat.com/2013/3/18/4108794/cc-home-run-derby-league-2013 Astronaut Mike Dexter