In our baseball preview on the radio show, Andy Cornell predicted Justin Verlander to win the Cy Young Award.
Seeing that the Tigers flamethrower won his 20th today in a 6-4 win over the hapless Twins and the fact that he's thrown the second no-hitter of his career this season, I'm guessing Verlander is the leader in the race for the Cy Young.
I hope he doesn't win it though. I have nothing against Verlander. He's obviously an incredible pitcher. My problem if Verlander wins the Cy Young is that I'll never hear the end of it from Coach Cornell. When I say never hear the end of it I mean it. In 20-years he'll still be saying, "I told you Verlander would win the Cy Young in 2011. I know my baseball. What were you thinking..."
Ugh Cornell. That damn Cornell.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Hurricane Irene
If your a fan of rainouts, then this weekend is for you.
Hurricane Irene is already jacking up the schedule with 5 games wiped out, including the Yankees doubleheader at Baltimore.
I like rain. I really do. But not when it comes in torrents with 100 MPH winds. I also don't like it when it messes up the baseball schedule.
Hope Hurricane Irene doesn't do too much damage.
Hurricane Irene is already jacking up the schedule with 5 games wiped out, including the Yankees doubleheader at Baltimore.
I like rain. I really do. But not when it comes in torrents with 100 MPH winds. I also don't like it when it messes up the baseball schedule.
Hope Hurricane Irene doesn't do too much damage.
The Great Vin
Great news for baseball fans, especially Los Angeles fans.
Vin Scully will be back to announce Dodgers baseball next year. It will be his 63rd season with the Dodgers, dating back to their Brooklyn days.
Of all the people who have been involved with Major League baseball, I would guess that Vin Scully has seen the most games in person. I'm sure Connie Mack is up there. I wonder if there is any way to find that out. There Elias Sports Bureau, you have an assignment!
Vin will be 84 on November 29th. As long as he's healthy and desires to stay behind the mike, I'm all for it. Like Satchel Paige said, "Age is mind over matter. If you don't mind, it don't matter."
What a great run for Vin Scully and thankfully it will continue. Just amazing, absolutely amazing.
Vin Scully will be back to announce Dodgers baseball next year. It will be his 63rd season with the Dodgers, dating back to their Brooklyn days.
Of all the people who have been involved with Major League baseball, I would guess that Vin Scully has seen the most games in person. I'm sure Connie Mack is up there. I wonder if there is any way to find that out. There Elias Sports Bureau, you have an assignment!
Vin will be 84 on November 29th. As long as he's healthy and desires to stay behind the mike, I'm all for it. Like Satchel Paige said, "Age is mind over matter. If you don't mind, it don't matter."
What a great run for Vin Scully and thankfully it will continue. Just amazing, absolutely amazing.
RBI's
I've had a couple of people, I guess staffers on the grammar police, correct me when I've said, "RBI's. As in, "Helton had three RBI's last night."
These morons will say, "It's not RBI's. It's not 'Runs Batted In's.' It's R'sBI."
Maybe RBI's isn't grammatically correct but the day I say "R'sBI is the day I stop following baseball.
Seriously, what kind of idiot really gets upset at RBI's? It's only been called RBI's since the beginning of time. Actually, since the beginning of baseball. I don't believe baseball was around when time began.
Perhaps this post is a step in the right direction in setting the R'sBI people straight. Or, maybe a better measure would be to punch the next person who corrects me after I say RBI's right in the nose. There's your bleeping R'sBI.
Had to get that off my chest.
These morons will say, "It's not RBI's. It's not 'Runs Batted In's.' It's R'sBI."
Maybe RBI's isn't grammatically correct but the day I say "R'sBI is the day I stop following baseball.
Seriously, what kind of idiot really gets upset at RBI's? It's only been called RBI's since the beginning of time. Actually, since the beginning of baseball. I don't believe baseball was around when time began.
Perhaps this post is a step in the right direction in setting the R'sBI people straight. Or, maybe a better measure would be to punch the next person who corrects me after I say RBI's right in the nose. There's your bleeping R'sBI.
Had to get that off my chest.
Punchless In Frisco
You can't win without pitching. Can't do it. Whatever level you are talking about, little league, high school, college, minor leagues, big leagues, you cannot seriously contend if your pitching it woeful. Except perhaps T-ball since they don't have pitchers.
Anyway, you can win with a lousy line up. If a team can't hit but they have pitching they can contend. Just scratch out a few runs and you have a shot.
The Giants are a team that has pitching. Great pitching. The defending champs though can't hit for beans and that is what may be their downfall in the NL West.
Nobody is asked the Giants to hit as they did in the days of Mays, McCovey, Hart and Bonds. But nobody thought it was alright to hit like my old guy's baseball team either.
The Giants are hitting .239 as a team, worst in the National League. Their pitching is second in the NL, with a team ERA of 3.13, just behind the Phillies (3.09). But the Phillies can hit and that is why they are dominating this season. The Giants pitchers should sue the hitters for lack of support.
Aubrey Huff, who is hitting a whopping .244 leads the team in RBI's with 54. By comparison the Yankees have 5 guys with more than 54 RBI's.
Carlos Beltran, the big pickup from the Mets at the trade deadline has 1 homer and 3 RBI's in 15 games and 57 at-bats. Not the impact they were looking for.
Unless they figure out how to score some runs, the Giants won't have a chance to defend their World Series title. Not to mention closer Brian Wilson has an ailing elbow. Things aren't looking so good in San Fran these days.
Anyway, you can win with a lousy line up. If a team can't hit but they have pitching they can contend. Just scratch out a few runs and you have a shot.
The Giants are a team that has pitching. Great pitching. The defending champs though can't hit for beans and that is what may be their downfall in the NL West.
Nobody is asked the Giants to hit as they did in the days of Mays, McCovey, Hart and Bonds. But nobody thought it was alright to hit like my old guy's baseball team either.
The Giants are hitting .239 as a team, worst in the National League. Their pitching is second in the NL, with a team ERA of 3.13, just behind the Phillies (3.09). But the Phillies can hit and that is why they are dominating this season. The Giants pitchers should sue the hitters for lack of support.
Aubrey Huff, who is hitting a whopping .244 leads the team in RBI's with 54. By comparison the Yankees have 5 guys with more than 54 RBI's.
Carlos Beltran, the big pickup from the Mets at the trade deadline has 1 homer and 3 RBI's in 15 games and 57 at-bats. Not the impact they were looking for.
Unless they figure out how to score some runs, the Giants won't have a chance to defend their World Series title. Not to mention closer Brian Wilson has an ailing elbow. Things aren't looking so good in San Fran these days.
Sad Demise
I've thought about what I was going to write about Mike Flanagan the past few days but I can't think of anything profound.
The former Orioles pitcher, executive and current broadcaster killed himself with a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Wednesday. He was 59.
I remember Flanagan as a good left handed pitcher and when you thought of him it was always as an Oriole, even though he spent some time with the Blue Jays towards the end of his career.
They are speculating financial difficulties caused him to take his own life. He didn't leave a note so who knows for sure. I do know that he shot himself in the face and it was so bad they couldn't identify the body right away.
He leaves behind a wife and three kids.
Very sad story and I don't know how else to describe it.
Ironically, on our Tuesday morning radio show, Murphy Wells had a couple of guests on the show to talk about suicide and suicide prevention. It was a very compelling hour long interview she and Steve Kelley did with these two women, one of whom had her teenage son commit suicide two years ago.
Doesn't matter. Teenager or former Major Leaguer. Suicide is an awful thing and one of the saddest things to happen to the survivors.
There is help out there. If you are thinking of doing something drastic, please seek help. Suicide is not the answer.
Meanwhile, RIP Mike Flanagan. I'll always remember your skillful pitching and I'll try not to think about the way you left us.
The former Orioles pitcher, executive and current broadcaster killed himself with a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Wednesday. He was 59.
I remember Flanagan as a good left handed pitcher and when you thought of him it was always as an Oriole, even though he spent some time with the Blue Jays towards the end of his career.
They are speculating financial difficulties caused him to take his own life. He didn't leave a note so who knows for sure. I do know that he shot himself in the face and it was so bad they couldn't identify the body right away.
He leaves behind a wife and three kids.
Very sad story and I don't know how else to describe it.
Ironically, on our Tuesday morning radio show, Murphy Wells had a couple of guests on the show to talk about suicide and suicide prevention. It was a very compelling hour long interview she and Steve Kelley did with these two women, one of whom had her teenage son commit suicide two years ago.
Doesn't matter. Teenager or former Major Leaguer. Suicide is an awful thing and one of the saddest things to happen to the survivors.
There is help out there. If you are thinking of doing something drastic, please seek help. Suicide is not the answer.
Meanwhile, RIP Mike Flanagan. I'll always remember your skillful pitching and I'll try not to think about the way you left us.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Bye Bye Redbirds
Astonishing. That would be a word to describe the tear through the National League that the Brewers are on.
Milwaukee has won 24 of 28 and have buried the second place Cardinals. St. Louis has won just 5 of their last 14 games and sits 10-games out in the Central.
The crazy thing about the Brewers is their home and away splits.
At Miller Park, the Brew Crew is nearly unbeatable, having won 47 while dropping just 16. On the road, Milwaukee is an uninspiring 31-37. However, Milwaukee has won 10 of their last 12 road games heading into this afternoon's tilt with the Pirates.
They are learning how to win on the road, they are getting tremendous pitching and with the way they play at home could be a real force come October. Maybe we should just give the NL pennant to the Phillies just yet.
Plus, with attendance booming and a contending ballclub, maybe free agent to be Prince Fielder will give increased consideration to staying in Milwaukee. I don't think that he will but you never know what a player is thinking.
As for the Cardinals? Another disappointing season and next year they probably won't have Tony LaRussa back as manager and Albert Pujols could be wearing another jersey. Things don't look so good these days in St. Louis do they?
Milwaukee has won 24 of 28 and have buried the second place Cardinals. St. Louis has won just 5 of their last 14 games and sits 10-games out in the Central.
The crazy thing about the Brewers is their home and away splits.
At Miller Park, the Brew Crew is nearly unbeatable, having won 47 while dropping just 16. On the road, Milwaukee is an uninspiring 31-37. However, Milwaukee has won 10 of their last 12 road games heading into this afternoon's tilt with the Pirates.
They are learning how to win on the road, they are getting tremendous pitching and with the way they play at home could be a real force come October. Maybe we should just give the NL pennant to the Phillies just yet.
Plus, with attendance booming and a contending ballclub, maybe free agent to be Prince Fielder will give increased consideration to staying in Milwaukee. I don't think that he will but you never know what a player is thinking.
As for the Cardinals? Another disappointing season and next year they probably won't have Tony LaRussa back as manager and Albert Pujols could be wearing another jersey. Things don't look so good these days in St. Louis do they?
Leave A-Rod Alone
I can understand baseball looking into Alex Rodriguez and his alleged participation in illegal high stakes poker games. I can also understand the media following the story closely.
However, I've been reading about A-Rod playing high stakes poker at a casino in Pennsylvania recently and I don't see a problem with that.
There is a difference, the main one being that if you play poker in a casino it is a legal activity.
Plus, everyone keeps mentioning high stakes poker. I did myself in this brief post. High stakes to you and me is probably different to Rodriguez. If A-Rod loses 50K in a poker game it is like most people losing $100. Not a big deal. Shoot, he could lose a million dollars in a poker game and not lose a bit of sleep over it.
If he's in a casino gambling, leave him alone. If he's hanging out in a celebrities mansion gambling with other celebrity rich folk, look the other way. If he's hanging out with unsavory degenerates in some basement in a bad area...well, then their could be problems.
However, I've been reading about A-Rod playing high stakes poker at a casino in Pennsylvania recently and I don't see a problem with that.
There is a difference, the main one being that if you play poker in a casino it is a legal activity.
Plus, everyone keeps mentioning high stakes poker. I did myself in this brief post. High stakes to you and me is probably different to Rodriguez. If A-Rod loses 50K in a poker game it is like most people losing $100. Not a big deal. Shoot, he could lose a million dollars in a poker game and not lose a bit of sleep over it.
If he's in a casino gambling, leave him alone. If he's hanging out in a celebrities mansion gambling with other celebrity rich folk, look the other way. If he's hanging out with unsavory degenerates in some basement in a bad area...well, then their could be problems.
Gremlins Gone?
Nice to be back. I have a lot on my mind but the past several days I couldn't get into this blog to post. Not being technically gifted, I didn't know how to handle to problem. But things seem to be working and back to normal.
Sorry for the both of you that religiously read Mysterious Walker.
Sorry for the both of you that religiously read Mysterious Walker.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Frank White
I'm watching the Yankees-Royals game right now. Last month, I saw the Royals in person when they came to Denver to face the Rockies.
I wrote about Doug Sisson (The Sizzler), the Royals first base coach on a post on July 1st.
I forgot to write about Frank White, the Royals former second baseman and now a broadcaster for the Royals.
Back when the Yankees and KC were scrapping for American League pennants, I wasn't a Frank White fan. I was, of course, partial to Yankees keystoner Willie Randolph.
Anyway, White was a great fielder, smooth as glass. He was also a tough out and a clutch hitter.
I introduced myself to White at Coors Field and was really impressed with how nice and friendly he was. Some guys will give you the "hey, how are ya" line and go about their business. But White was really engaging and his enthusiasm level climbed when we talked about the great playoff matchups of the past between the Yankees and Royals.
Since he was such a pleasant man I thought I would write about Frank White here. But I forgot...until now. Better late than never, right?
I wrote about Doug Sisson (The Sizzler), the Royals first base coach on a post on July 1st.
I forgot to write about Frank White, the Royals former second baseman and now a broadcaster for the Royals.
Back when the Yankees and KC were scrapping for American League pennants, I wasn't a Frank White fan. I was, of course, partial to Yankees keystoner Willie Randolph.
Anyway, White was a great fielder, smooth as glass. He was also a tough out and a clutch hitter.
I introduced myself to White at Coors Field and was really impressed with how nice and friendly he was. Some guys will give you the "hey, how are ya" line and go about their business. But White was really engaging and his enthusiasm level climbed when we talked about the great playoff matchups of the past between the Yankees and Royals.
Since he was such a pleasant man I thought I would write about Frank White here. But I forgot...until now. Better late than never, right?
Strongman Hits 600
Congrats to one of the class acts in baseball, Jim Thome who belted his 599th and 600th career homers tonight in Detroit against the Tigers.
In an era when many sluggers were under the umbrella of suspicion of using steroids, Jim Thome is one guy whose name never came up. At least not that I'm aware of. Thome is stronger than an ox. He didn't need to used steroids.
I remember his first career home run. It was against the Yankees when he was with the Indians and landed in the upper deck at Yankee Stadium. If I remember correctly it won the game for Cleveland and it introduced me to Jim Thome.
The interesting thing about tonight's 600th homer is that it came one at-bat after his 599th homer. Frequently it takes a player a while to land that milestone homer since they are thinking about it and pressing. When Alex Rodriguez was chasing his 500th homer, he was seemingly stuck on 499 forever.
I'm really happy for Thome. First ballot Hall of Famer for certain. I'd like to see him get really hot and pass that fraud Sammy Sosa who has 609 homers, many tainted.
In an era when many sluggers were under the umbrella of suspicion of using steroids, Jim Thome is one guy whose name never came up. At least not that I'm aware of. Thome is stronger than an ox. He didn't need to used steroids.
I remember his first career home run. It was against the Yankees when he was with the Indians and landed in the upper deck at Yankee Stadium. If I remember correctly it won the game for Cleveland and it introduced me to Jim Thome.
The interesting thing about tonight's 600th homer is that it came one at-bat after his 599th homer. Frequently it takes a player a while to land that milestone homer since they are thinking about it and pressing. When Alex Rodriguez was chasing his 500th homer, he was seemingly stuck on 499 forever.
I'm really happy for Thome. First ballot Hall of Famer for certain. I'd like to see him get really hot and pass that fraud Sammy Sosa who has 609 homers, many tainted.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Ugglamazing
How does a .224 hitter have a 31-game hitting streak?
Simple. He gets a hit in 31-straight games, dummy.
I'm cracking on myself. What's up with that?
Anyway, Dan Uggla, with his .224 average, had 3-hits in the Braves 6-2 victory over the Marlins today.
Can Uggla actually threaten DiMaggio's 56-game hitting streak?
Probably not. But you never know. That's what makes baseball so great.
They wrote songs about the revered DiMaggio. I don't know if they'll write a song about Uggla if he breaks Joe D's mark. But I'd actually like to see it. Or at least see him come close.
Do you know who I feel bad for? Dan Uggla's wife, that's who. She has to go through life known as Mrs. Uggla. I've never seen her but I'm sure, like most ballplayers wives, she's rather snappy. But no matter how good looking she may be she'll always be Mrs. Uggla. Too bad.
Good luck Dan. Keep the hitting streak going.
Simple. He gets a hit in 31-straight games, dummy.
I'm cracking on myself. What's up with that?
Anyway, Dan Uggla, with his .224 average, had 3-hits in the Braves 6-2 victory over the Marlins today.
Can Uggla actually threaten DiMaggio's 56-game hitting streak?
Probably not. But you never know. That's what makes baseball so great.
They wrote songs about the revered DiMaggio. I don't know if they'll write a song about Uggla if he breaks Joe D's mark. But I'd actually like to see it. Or at least see him come close.
Do you know who I feel bad for? Dan Uggla's wife, that's who. She has to go through life known as Mrs. Uggla. I've never seen her but I'm sure, like most ballplayers wives, she's rather snappy. But no matter how good looking she may be she'll always be Mrs. Uggla. Too bad.
Good luck Dan. Keep the hitting streak going.
Tribe Hangs Tough
Glad to see Ubaldo Jimenez get his first win with the Indians, a 10-3 beating of the Tigers.
The victory brings Cleveland to within 2 games of the division leading Detroiters.
The races to watch in the American League will be in the Central and West. The East? Who cares? The Red Sox and Yankees will both be in the playoffs, one as a division winner the other as a wild card.
In the Central, I'm pulling for the Tribe for two reasons. I can't stand Tigers manager Jim Leyland. He's a jerk, which I know first hand from covering the Rockies during his one disastrous season managing them in 1999. Just a salty guy whom I believe is incapable of smiling.
The other reason I'm rooting for Cleveland is because of Don Pablo Apodaca, our trusty producer on the radio show. For some reason he's a loyal Indians fan so I hope he gets some satisfaction out of his team.
In the West, I'd like to see the Rangers hang on. They just seem like a likable team, fun to watch and I like owner Nolan Ryan, one of my favorite athletes ever. I'd also see the Yankees play them again in the playoffs. They owe Texas one.
The victory brings Cleveland to within 2 games of the division leading Detroiters.
The races to watch in the American League will be in the Central and West. The East? Who cares? The Red Sox and Yankees will both be in the playoffs, one as a division winner the other as a wild card.
In the Central, I'm pulling for the Tribe for two reasons. I can't stand Tigers manager Jim Leyland. He's a jerk, which I know first hand from covering the Rockies during his one disastrous season managing them in 1999. Just a salty guy whom I believe is incapable of smiling.
The other reason I'm rooting for Cleveland is because of Don Pablo Apodaca, our trusty producer on the radio show. For some reason he's a loyal Indians fan so I hope he gets some satisfaction out of his team.
In the West, I'd like to see the Rangers hang on. They just seem like a likable team, fun to watch and I like owner Nolan Ryan, one of my favorite athletes ever. I'd also see the Yankees play them again in the playoffs. They owe Texas one.
Scammers
I wandered into a very interesting and informative website tonight that investigates the sometimes insidious world of sports memorabilia collecting.
The website is www.haulsofshame.com.
One of the biggest scammers and peddlers of phony memorabilia was the late Barry Halper. Halper's collection was sold to the Hall of Fame for more than 7-million dollars following his 2005 death.
Upon closer inspection, many of the items he had were obtained fraudulently, as in stolen, or were sophisticated facsimiles.
Among the fake items that Halper passed off as genuine were a Cy Young jersey, a Ty Cobb diary, a Lou Gehrig glove and a Mickey Mantle jersey. There are many more items that were fraudulent.
Why the Hall of Fame hasn't gone after the Halper estate to recoup the money they spent on these bogus artifacts is a mystery.
Speaking of Halper, I interviewed him once during a minor league baseball broadcast. He was in the ballpark (Dutchess Stadium in New York) and I talked to him about his vast collection. Little did I know he was a con man.
Anyway, it is a fascinating website and I would encourage a visit, even if you are not into sports memorabilia.
The website is www.haulsofshame.com.
One of the biggest scammers and peddlers of phony memorabilia was the late Barry Halper. Halper's collection was sold to the Hall of Fame for more than 7-million dollars following his 2005 death.
Upon closer inspection, many of the items he had were obtained fraudulently, as in stolen, or were sophisticated facsimiles.
Among the fake items that Halper passed off as genuine were a Cy Young jersey, a Ty Cobb diary, a Lou Gehrig glove and a Mickey Mantle jersey. There are many more items that were fraudulent.
Why the Hall of Fame hasn't gone after the Halper estate to recoup the money they spent on these bogus artifacts is a mystery.
Speaking of Halper, I interviewed him once during a minor league baseball broadcast. He was in the ballpark (Dutchess Stadium in New York) and I talked to him about his vast collection. Little did I know he was a con man.
Anyway, it is a fascinating website and I would encourage a visit, even if you are not into sports memorabilia.
Positive News
Rockies pitcher Juan Nicasio has been walking and doctors expect a full recovery after his frightening injury Friday night at Coors Field.
When he returns to baseball activities who knows and at this point who really cares? The main thing is that he get healthy and back to normal as soon as possible.
While it was a most unfortunate incident, it could have been much, much worse.
When he returns to baseball activities who knows and at this point who really cares? The main thing is that he get healthy and back to normal as soon as possible.
While it was a most unfortunate incident, it could have been much, much worse.
Welcome to the Show!
Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York.
Bottom one.
Garder...walk. Jeter...walk. Granderson...BOOM! 3-0 Yanks.
Rough start for Angels pitcher Garrett Richards in his Major League Debut. He went 5-innings and gave up 6-runs and took the loss in the Yankees 9-3 win.
I wouldn't worry too much about Richards if I were the Angels. The guy throws in the mid-90's, he has a smooth fluid motion and the 23-year old, a week ago, was pitching in AA.
The kid is going to be a quality big league pitcher. But not tonight. A rude welcome to the show but on the bright side, he's in the baseball encyclopedia forever.
Bottom one.
Garder...walk. Jeter...walk. Granderson...BOOM! 3-0 Yanks.
Rough start for Angels pitcher Garrett Richards in his Major League Debut. He went 5-innings and gave up 6-runs and took the loss in the Yankees 9-3 win.
I wouldn't worry too much about Richards if I were the Angels. The guy throws in the mid-90's, he has a smooth fluid motion and the 23-year old, a week ago, was pitching in AA.
The kid is going to be a quality big league pitcher. But not tonight. A rude welcome to the show but on the bright side, he's in the baseball encyclopedia forever.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Prayers for Nicasio
There are a couple of things that really frighten me in baseball. One is a batter getting hit in the head by a pitch. The other is a line drive nailing the pitcher in the head.
The latter happened tonight at Coors Field as Ian Desmond, the Nationals shortstop, ripped a line drive off the head of Rockies starter Juan Nicasio in the second inning. Nicasio dropped immediately and lay on his back several minutes. He was taken away after being strapped to a stretcher. It was one of the scariest things I've ever seen in baseball. The ball ricocheted toward the Rockies dugout it was hit so hard. Both teams, when Nicasio was being attended to were visibly upset.
A team announcement 6 innings later said that Nicasio was undergoing tests and was resting comfortably at a local hospital.
As I go to bed, not knowing his condition, I will say a prayer that he'll be OK. In a dismal season for the Rockies Nicasio has been a bright spot, a player that may become a stalwart in the rotation.
I know that a lot of baseball fans are pulling for the young man from the Dominican Republic, hoping that he will be alright.
The latter happened tonight at Coors Field as Ian Desmond, the Nationals shortstop, ripped a line drive off the head of Rockies starter Juan Nicasio in the second inning. Nicasio dropped immediately and lay on his back several minutes. He was taken away after being strapped to a stretcher. It was one of the scariest things I've ever seen in baseball. The ball ricocheted toward the Rockies dugout it was hit so hard. Both teams, when Nicasio was being attended to were visibly upset.
A team announcement 6 innings later said that Nicasio was undergoing tests and was resting comfortably at a local hospital.
As I go to bed, not knowing his condition, I will say a prayer that he'll be OK. In a dismal season for the Rockies Nicasio has been a bright spot, a player that may become a stalwart in the rotation.
I know that a lot of baseball fans are pulling for the young man from the Dominican Republic, hoping that he will be alright.
Tough Night For Hendu
It was a tough evening for my pal Ed Henderson at Coors Field tonight.
First off, at dinner, I was the last guy to the clam chowder bowl. A couple of scoops and the clam chowder was gone. Ed asked them to replenish the clam chowder but was told that they "were out" of clam chowder. Too bad. It was really, really tasty New England Clam Chowder, a fact I reminded Hendu about all night. I told him, "This is the best New England Clam Chowder I've ever had."
While watching the Nationals-Rockies, we were also watching the Yankees-Red Sox on the TV. The Yanks won 3-2 much to Hendu's dismay since he's a die-hard Bosox fan.
Around the 6th inning, he strolled into the press dining area to get some chocolate milk. He loves his chocolate milk. Guess what. They ran out of chocolate milk too!
Then, to cap off the night, the Rockies lost making Ed an unhappy guy. Hey, as a Red Sox fan you probably are used to disappointment.
First off, at dinner, I was the last guy to the clam chowder bowl. A couple of scoops and the clam chowder was gone. Ed asked them to replenish the clam chowder but was told that they "were out" of clam chowder. Too bad. It was really, really tasty New England Clam Chowder, a fact I reminded Hendu about all night. I told him, "This is the best New England Clam Chowder I've ever had."
While watching the Nationals-Rockies, we were also watching the Yankees-Red Sox on the TV. The Yanks won 3-2 much to Hendu's dismay since he's a die-hard Bosox fan.
Around the 6th inning, he strolled into the press dining area to get some chocolate milk. He loves his chocolate milk. Guess what. They ran out of chocolate milk too!
Then, to cap off the night, the Rockies lost making Ed an unhappy guy. Hey, as a Red Sox fan you probably are used to disappointment.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
A Scalpers Paradise
The scalpers in Boston are no doubt salivating at the upcoming weekend series between the Yankees and Red Sox at Fenway Park. Probably more excited than the scalpers for the Blue Jays-Orioles series in Baltimore.
Both teams, after 110 games, are even atop the AL East standings at 68-42. By the way, there has to be someone out there named Al East. Or Al West. I digress.
It seems as if New York and the Bostons are on a collision course to bang heads in the ALCS and I'm all for it.
Some people complain when Fox or ESPN seemingly airs the Yankees and Red Sox all the time. The reason is simple. It's the greatest rivalry in sports. These teams play compelling, dramatic, intense and exciting games. Or would you rather watch a Marlins-Astros or Twins-Mariners match up?
Here is where I'm not a fan of the wild card in baseball. No matter what happens in this series, both teams will be in the playoffs in all likelihood. Imagine if only the division winner made the playoffs? How exciting would that be? That is why the last true pennant race in baseball was in 1993 when the Braves won the NL West (how was Atlanta in the West and the Cubs and Cardinals in the East back then?) with 104 wins while the Giants, who won 103 games went home. That is when the season took on more importance. Now, with the wild card you'll get a team like the 2006 Cardinals get into the playoffs with 83 wins, then get hot in the post season and steal a World Series.
Anyway, I'm rambling here. Time to go to bed and look forward to a fun weekend of baseball. Although people here in Denver are looking forward to going to Broncos training camp and debating if Orton or Tebow should be the QB. Is there anything more boring than attending NFL training camp? Brutal.
Both teams, after 110 games, are even atop the AL East standings at 68-42. By the way, there has to be someone out there named Al East. Or Al West. I digress.
It seems as if New York and the Bostons are on a collision course to bang heads in the ALCS and I'm all for it.
Some people complain when Fox or ESPN seemingly airs the Yankees and Red Sox all the time. The reason is simple. It's the greatest rivalry in sports. These teams play compelling, dramatic, intense and exciting games. Or would you rather watch a Marlins-Astros or Twins-Mariners match up?
Here is where I'm not a fan of the wild card in baseball. No matter what happens in this series, both teams will be in the playoffs in all likelihood. Imagine if only the division winner made the playoffs? How exciting would that be? That is why the last true pennant race in baseball was in 1993 when the Braves won the NL West (how was Atlanta in the West and the Cubs and Cardinals in the East back then?) with 104 wins while the Giants, who won 103 games went home. That is when the season took on more importance. Now, with the wild card you'll get a team like the 2006 Cardinals get into the playoffs with 83 wins, then get hot in the post season and steal a World Series.
Anyway, I'm rambling here. Time to go to bed and look forward to a fun weekend of baseball. Although people here in Denver are looking forward to going to Broncos training camp and debating if Orton or Tebow should be the QB. Is there anything more boring than attending NFL training camp? Brutal.
Tyler Clippard
I'll be going to the Rockies game tomorrow. I'll go early to meet Tyler Clippard, the Nationals relief pitcher who appeared in the All Star game this year.
I plan on giving him a copy of my book, "More Turf Tales...Taking The Serious Out of Sports," since I wrote a story involving Clippard in the book.
My former teammate in the over 35-baseball league, Scott Blaise, who goes by Brian, did the drawings for the book including a very funny picture of Clippard.
My publisher, Linda Young, liked the story so much she thought it would be a good one to open the book with.
Just so you know, the book is fictional and the stories are just things that come out of my head. The stories are supposed to be funny so I hope Clippard has a good sense of humor. Oh, the reason I picked Clippard for the story? Well, I've always liked him ever since he beat the Mets in his Major League debut while with the Yankees a few years ago. So I thought I'd honor him with a story.
Here is the story...
RESCUED
Washington Nationals pitcher Tyler Clippard has been found alive and well, although shaken, after being lost for two days in the Coors Field forest behind the centerfield wall.
“I just went from our bullpen into the forest to retrieve a Carlos Gonzalez home run ball,” explained Clippard. “But I couldn’t find the ball and then I got lost and panicked.”
Rockies General Manager Dan O’Dowd said, “We always brief the opposing team that venturing away from the bullpen towards the trees and fountains in centerfield isn’t a wise idea. Unfortunately Clippard found out the hard way.”
Hiking expert Chuck Fitzgerald has sound advice for pitchers in the visiting bullpen at Coors Field.
“First of all, if you must go into the forest, go with a friend if possible. Also, let people know where you are going and bring a cell phone and flares. This could have helped Clippard. Bring plenty of water, a blanket and some food rations. A compass would also be helpful. It is very easy to become disoriented past the centerfield fence at Coors Field. While it is beautiful it can be dangerous. There have also been reports of mountain lions and grizzly bears roaming out there. Thank God nothing happened...this time.”
“I survived on berries and nachos discarded into the forest by litterbugs from the bleachers,” said Clippard. “It was a harrowing experience and I’ve learned my lesson.”
After being examined by team trainers, Clippard was deemed healthy and fit with no lingering side effects.
Nationals Manager Jim Riggleman said, “Clippard was missing for two days? Really? Is he ok? He is? Damn. The way he’s pitching too bad he couldn’t stay lost for the rest of the season.”
Anyway, that is the first of 148 Turf Tales in the book. If you would like to get a copy, the easiest way is to go to the publisher's website: www.maxq4u.com.
I didn't realize, until after the book was published, that there were 148 stories. If I'd have known that I would have come up with two more for an even 150.
I plan on giving him a copy of my book, "More Turf Tales...Taking The Serious Out of Sports," since I wrote a story involving Clippard in the book.
My former teammate in the over 35-baseball league, Scott Blaise, who goes by Brian, did the drawings for the book including a very funny picture of Clippard.
My publisher, Linda Young, liked the story so much she thought it would be a good one to open the book with.
Just so you know, the book is fictional and the stories are just things that come out of my head. The stories are supposed to be funny so I hope Clippard has a good sense of humor. Oh, the reason I picked Clippard for the story? Well, I've always liked him ever since he beat the Mets in his Major League debut while with the Yankees a few years ago. So I thought I'd honor him with a story.
Here is the story...
RESCUED
Washington Nationals pitcher Tyler Clippard has been found alive and well, although shaken, after being lost for two days in the Coors Field forest behind the centerfield wall.
“I just went from our bullpen into the forest to retrieve a Carlos Gonzalez home run ball,” explained Clippard. “But I couldn’t find the ball and then I got lost and panicked.”
Rockies General Manager Dan O’Dowd said, “We always brief the opposing team that venturing away from the bullpen towards the trees and fountains in centerfield isn’t a wise idea. Unfortunately Clippard found out the hard way.”
Hiking expert Chuck Fitzgerald has sound advice for pitchers in the visiting bullpen at Coors Field.
“First of all, if you must go into the forest, go with a friend if possible. Also, let people know where you are going and bring a cell phone and flares. This could have helped Clippard. Bring plenty of water, a blanket and some food rations. A compass would also be helpful. It is very easy to become disoriented past the centerfield fence at Coors Field. While it is beautiful it can be dangerous. There have also been reports of mountain lions and grizzly bears roaming out there. Thank God nothing happened...this time.”
“I survived on berries and nachos discarded into the forest by litterbugs from the bleachers,” said Clippard. “It was a harrowing experience and I’ve learned my lesson.”
After being examined by team trainers, Clippard was deemed healthy and fit with no lingering side effects.
Nationals Manager Jim Riggleman said, “Clippard was missing for two days? Really? Is he ok? He is? Damn. The way he’s pitching too bad he couldn’t stay lost for the rest of the season.”
Anyway, that is the first of 148 Turf Tales in the book. If you would like to get a copy, the easiest way is to go to the publisher's website: www.maxq4u.com.
I didn't realize, until after the book was published, that there were 148 stories. If I'd have known that I would have come up with two more for an even 150.
Baseball and Music
It has become nearly impossible for me to listen to Yankees TV broadcasts. I like the rotating analysts...Paul O'Neill, Ken Singleton, John Flaherty, David Cone and the list goes on. But I can't take play-by-play man Michael Kay any more. I used to like him a while back but he's become a shill and just an annoying presence in the booth. Also, I can't take roving reporter Kim Jones. She tells me nothing, is irritating, doesn't add a thing and her interviewing skills are lacking. She isn't needed in my opinion.
So, my new strategy while watching Yankees games is to turn down the sound and listen to music. Tonight's musical selections so far...Fleetwood Mac and Billy Joel. I guess I'm in a 70's mood. Maybe I'll listen to some Neil Young later. Last night I listened to Led Zeppelin, The Who and The Hollies. I guess I was in an English mood. Anything is better than Kay and Jones.
So, my new strategy while watching Yankees games is to turn down the sound and listen to music. Tonight's musical selections so far...Fleetwood Mac and Billy Joel. I guess I'm in a 70's mood. Maybe I'll listen to some Neil Young later. Last night I listened to Led Zeppelin, The Who and The Hollies. I guess I was in an English mood. Anything is better than Kay and Jones.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Halladay and Lidge
Went to the Rockies game today and there were an awful lot of people wearing red Phillies gear. In the past, many Cubs and Cardinals fans made their way into Coors Field when those teams were in town. But I don't remember that many Phillies fans going to Rockies games. But, with the best record in baseball, the Phils are getting all the bandwagon jumpers. I have a hard time respecting people who suddenly become fans of teams that win. I have much more respect when a fan admits that he likes the Cubs, Orioles or Astros or some other hapless and hopeless team.
Anyway, although he didn't pitch a gem, I felt good for Roy Halladay as he picked up his 14th win. He's a Colorado native and pitched at nearby Arvada West High School. I believe it was only his second game at Coors Field since he spent so many years in the American League with Toronto.
Also, Brad Lidge, who went to Cherry Creek High School in Colorado picked up his first save of the season.
So it was a good day for a couple of Colorado guys against Colorado.
Anyway, although he didn't pitch a gem, I felt good for Roy Halladay as he picked up his 14th win. He's a Colorado native and pitched at nearby Arvada West High School. I believe it was only his second game at Coors Field since he spent so many years in the American League with Toronto.
Also, Brad Lidge, who went to Cherry Creek High School in Colorado picked up his first save of the season.
So it was a good day for a couple of Colorado guys against Colorado.
Release Him...Now!
How bad a pitcher do you have to be to be staked to an early 13-1 lead but not get the win? Answer: Very bad.
For once you would think A.J. Burnett would have a guaranteed win when he had a 12 run lead against the White Sox tonight. But the Pale Hose chipped away and with one out in the 5th and runners on first and second with the lead whittled to 13-7, Joe Girardi had seen enough and took Burnett out of the game making him ineligible for the win.
Burnett was mad when he left. I don't know if he was angry with Girardi for taking him out or if he was upset with himself. Whatever, the guy flat out stinks. He has a great arm but the pitching acumen of a 7-year old.
Please Brian Cashman, get rid of this guy. Dump him like a bad habit. He's awful, terrible and gives me agita every time I see his face and ugly tattoos. I'd rather see an A-ball pitcher in there than Burnett.
At least the Yanks won the game 18-7. Jeter had 5 hits and scored 4 runs. Not bad for a guy who is finished.
For once you would think A.J. Burnett would have a guaranteed win when he had a 12 run lead against the White Sox tonight. But the Pale Hose chipped away and with one out in the 5th and runners on first and second with the lead whittled to 13-7, Joe Girardi had seen enough and took Burnett out of the game making him ineligible for the win.
Burnett was mad when he left. I don't know if he was angry with Girardi for taking him out or if he was upset with himself. Whatever, the guy flat out stinks. He has a great arm but the pitching acumen of a 7-year old.
Please Brian Cashman, get rid of this guy. Dump him like a bad habit. He's awful, terrible and gives me agita every time I see his face and ugly tattoos. I'd rather see an A-ball pitcher in there than Burnett.
At least the Yanks won the game 18-7. Jeter had 5 hits and scored 4 runs. Not bad for a guy who is finished.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Not Much of a Punishment
Jered Weaver of the Angels was suspended for 6 games for throwing at the head of Alex Avila of the Tigers right after Carlos Guillen homered and styled around the bases.
For a position player, a 6 game suspension means he misses 6 games.
For a starting pitcher, it means he has a start pushed back two games. Maybe at the end of the season it results in a missed start. Maybe not.
If Major League baseball wanted to help curtail the shenanigans of a pitcher intentionally throwing at a batters head, then they should make the suspension worth 6 starts, meaning a starting pitcher, like Weaver, should be suspended 30-games. As it stands now, he's missing games he wouldn't participate in anyway.
What about relief pitchers? How many games should they be suspended for in a similar situation? I haven't figured that out yet.
For a position player, a 6 game suspension means he misses 6 games.
For a starting pitcher, it means he has a start pushed back two games. Maybe at the end of the season it results in a missed start. Maybe not.
If Major League baseball wanted to help curtail the shenanigans of a pitcher intentionally throwing at a batters head, then they should make the suspension worth 6 starts, meaning a starting pitcher, like Weaver, should be suspended 30-games. As it stands now, he's missing games he wouldn't participate in anyway.
What about relief pitchers? How many games should they be suspended for in a similar situation? I haven't figured that out yet.
Sounds Like A Fun Time
The game time temperature tonight at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City was 107 degrees. Not only was it hot, you had a matchup of the Orioles and Royals, which kind of rhymes. Kind of. OK, not really.
Anyway, 17,116 people ventured out to the yard to see the Baltimores stop KC 8-2. That means that 17,116 people are really into baseball or had nothing else better to do. Or both. Shoot, if I was in Kansas City I'd have probably been there.
Still, I'm guessing there were better matchups in the Majors tonight.
Anyway, 17,116 people ventured out to the yard to see the Baltimores stop KC 8-2. That means that 17,116 people are really into baseball or had nothing else better to do. Or both. Shoot, if I was in Kansas City I'd have probably been there.
Still, I'm guessing there were better matchups in the Majors tonight.
PR Departments...Ugh.
Justin Adams will be in Philadelphia next week at a conference. Since the Eagles are playing their first exhibition game on Thursday, August 11th, he wanted to take in the game.
Since it will be the first exhibition game, which is as exciting as mowing the lawn, I thought it wouldn't be a problem to get a credential to the game for Justin. After all, he is a member of the media, he covers the Broncos for our radio show and he's a professional.
Well, my request for Justin was denied. Why? I don't know. They didn't tell me. I didn't think that simply writing his name on a pass and leaving it at the media will call window would be a problem. Just another reason for me to hate the Philadelphia Eagles. I hope for nothing but bad things to happen to them.
A similar thing happened earlier this year when my friend Bob Behler came to Denver for a visit. Bob, a former minor league baseball announcer, currently is the radio voice of Boise State University football and basketball. He was also named the Idaho sportscaster of the year. I figured I would be able to get a pass for Bob from the Rockies. You know, as a professional courtesy. That request was denied with no explanation. I went to the game with Bob and sat with him in the stands. I did go into the press box right before the game to say a word to Ed Henderson. The Coors Field press box, as it usually is, was pretty empty. So obviously there was no room to allow a visiting member of the media in. They should have been happy to have someone of Behler's stature take in a game at Coors Field. So I'm not too upset about the crappy season the Rockies are having.
I'm really sick and tired of media departments or PR departments of professional sports teams in which you have to jump through hoops just to get a credential. Public relations people for pro teams are just difficult to deal with, so I try not to deal with them.
On the flip side, college sports information directors always seem to be appreciative of the media and are very accommodating. They actually have friendly dispositions instead of antagonistic ones. Imagine that.
One of the best media relations people I've ever met is Dave Plati at the University of Colorado. I've never, ever had a problem with him. He's a true professional and I wish there were more like him in professional sports.
Since it will be the first exhibition game, which is as exciting as mowing the lawn, I thought it wouldn't be a problem to get a credential to the game for Justin. After all, he is a member of the media, he covers the Broncos for our radio show and he's a professional.
Well, my request for Justin was denied. Why? I don't know. They didn't tell me. I didn't think that simply writing his name on a pass and leaving it at the media will call window would be a problem. Just another reason for me to hate the Philadelphia Eagles. I hope for nothing but bad things to happen to them.
A similar thing happened earlier this year when my friend Bob Behler came to Denver for a visit. Bob, a former minor league baseball announcer, currently is the radio voice of Boise State University football and basketball. He was also named the Idaho sportscaster of the year. I figured I would be able to get a pass for Bob from the Rockies. You know, as a professional courtesy. That request was denied with no explanation. I went to the game with Bob and sat with him in the stands. I did go into the press box right before the game to say a word to Ed Henderson. The Coors Field press box, as it usually is, was pretty empty. So obviously there was no room to allow a visiting member of the media in. They should have been happy to have someone of Behler's stature take in a game at Coors Field. So I'm not too upset about the crappy season the Rockies are having.
I'm really sick and tired of media departments or PR departments of professional sports teams in which you have to jump through hoops just to get a credential. Public relations people for pro teams are just difficult to deal with, so I try not to deal with them.
On the flip side, college sports information directors always seem to be appreciative of the media and are very accommodating. They actually have friendly dispositions instead of antagonistic ones. Imagine that.
One of the best media relations people I've ever met is Dave Plati at the University of Colorado. I've never, ever had a problem with him. He's a true professional and I wish there were more like him in professional sports.
Taking on Water
The Pirates are having their best season in 19 years. Could this be the year that the Bucs snap their 18-consecutive losing seasons streak?
Well, its starting to look bleak.
Tonight, the lowly Cubs pasted the Pirates 11-6 at PNC Park, rapping out 21 hits in the process. The Bucs are at .500 at 54-54.
Pittsburgh has lost 7 of 8 and if they are serious about contending they have to beat the dregs from Chicago.
By the way, the ball was flying in the Steel City tonight. Nine home runs were hit, six by the Cubs. I wonder if that is a PNC Park record. I'm too lazy to look it up. I'll wait until I read the game story.
Well, its starting to look bleak.
Tonight, the lowly Cubs pasted the Pirates 11-6 at PNC Park, rapping out 21 hits in the process. The Bucs are at .500 at 54-54.
Pittsburgh has lost 7 of 8 and if they are serious about contending they have to beat the dregs from Chicago.
By the way, the ball was flying in the Steel City tonight. Nine home runs were hit, six by the Cubs. I wonder if that is a PNC Park record. I'm too lazy to look it up. I'll wait until I read the game story.
Sad Anniversary
Every August 2nd I think of Thurman Munson.
On this date in 1979, the Yankees captain died in a plane crash in Ohio on an off day.
Thurm was everything a ballplayer should be. I loved the way he played and hustled. He got his uniform dirty and got the job done. He was clutch and he was one of my favorites.
Had he not died prematurely, I think he would have been elected to the Hall of Fame.
When I think of the best American League catcher of the 70's, I think of Munson. Don't give me Carlton Fisk. Please.
Of course the best catcher of the 70's was Johnny Bench. No shame being second to Bench.
In 1976, in a hotel lobby in Baltimore, I got Thurman to sign a program I got at that night's game at Memorial Stadium. Still have the program. By the way, I saw a three game series that year in Baltimore and the O's swept the Yankees. Oh well.
I remember years later, probably 1987 or so, when as a member of the media I was in the Yankees clubhouse and saw Munson's preserved locker, enclosed by glass. I got choked up and had to get out of there for a few minutes.
Anyway, I still get sad when this day rolls around. What an awful day August 2nd, 1979 was.
On this date in 1979, the Yankees captain died in a plane crash in Ohio on an off day.
Thurm was everything a ballplayer should be. I loved the way he played and hustled. He got his uniform dirty and got the job done. He was clutch and he was one of my favorites.
Had he not died prematurely, I think he would have been elected to the Hall of Fame.
When I think of the best American League catcher of the 70's, I think of Munson. Don't give me Carlton Fisk. Please.
Of course the best catcher of the 70's was Johnny Bench. No shame being second to Bench.
In 1976, in a hotel lobby in Baltimore, I got Thurman to sign a program I got at that night's game at Memorial Stadium. Still have the program. By the way, I saw a three game series that year in Baltimore and the O's swept the Yankees. Oh well.
I remember years later, probably 1987 or so, when as a member of the media I was in the Yankees clubhouse and saw Munson's preserved locker, enclosed by glass. I got choked up and had to get out of there for a few minutes.
Anyway, I still get sad when this day rolls around. What an awful day August 2nd, 1979 was.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Admission
Mariano Rivera came in to close out the Yankees 3-2 win over the White Sox. It was typical Mariano...an easy ground ball to short, a weak ground out to first and a strikeout. Nine pitches, 1,2,3...ballgame.
I'm not afraid to admit it. I love Mariano Rivera. Love that guy!
I'm not afraid to admit it. I love Mariano Rivera. Love that guy!
Winning Seasons
With the Yankees and Red Sox battling in the AL East, again, I am quite aware that both teams have long streaks of winning seasons.
I took a look and this will be the 13th straight winning season for the Bostons. This will be the Yankees 18th consecutive winning season, which will tie them with the 1968-1985 Orioles who had 18 winning seasons in a row. Kind of reminds you how good the O's used to be and how horrible they've become.
18 consecutive winning seasons is the second longest stretch in baseball history.
The longest consecutive winning seasons streak ever? The Yankees had a mind-boggling 39 straight winning seasons, from 1926-1964. Hey Pirates, chew on that for a while.
I took a look and this will be the 13th straight winning season for the Bostons. This will be the Yankees 18th consecutive winning season, which will tie them with the 1968-1985 Orioles who had 18 winning seasons in a row. Kind of reminds you how good the O's used to be and how horrible they've become.
18 consecutive winning seasons is the second longest stretch in baseball history.
The longest consecutive winning seasons streak ever? The Yankees had a mind-boggling 39 straight winning seasons, from 1926-1964. Hey Pirates, chew on that for a while.
Surprising July
The Red Sox went 20-6 in the month of July. I'm not surprised they did so well. They are a damn good team and really hit their stride last month.
The thing that did surprise me is that it was the best July ever in team history. I would have thought that they would have had a little better July sometime in their past which dates back to 1901.
Anyway, I just looked up and Dustin Pedroia just singled to left in the first inning against Cleveland. I hate Pedroia and love the guy all at the same time. I love the way he plays but I hate that he's with the Red Sox.
Looking forward to this weekend when the Yankees head to Fenway Park. Did I mention in my previous post it's time to get serious?
The thing that did surprise me is that it was the best July ever in team history. I would have thought that they would have had a little better July sometime in their past which dates back to 1901.
Anyway, I just looked up and Dustin Pedroia just singled to left in the first inning against Cleveland. I hate Pedroia and love the guy all at the same time. I love the way he plays but I hate that he's with the Red Sox.
Looking forward to this weekend when the Yankees head to Fenway Park. Did I mention in my previous post it's time to get serious?
Serious Time
It's August 1st and that is when the games and races take on a more urgent feel.
Games in April and May, win or lose, it's always "still early." Come June and July, kids are out of schools and baseball becomes a fun way to fill summer days and evenings.
But once the calendar hits August, the wins and losses become magnified, the trade deadline is over with the contenders adding pieces and the have nots selling away and looking towards the future.
Here is my list for the post-season chances: Teams that are probables, teams that are still in the hunt, teams that are a longshot and teams that are toast and playing the dreaded role of spoiler.
American League:
Probables:Red Sox, Yankees, Rangers.
Still in the hunt: Tigers, Indians, White Sox, Angels.
Longshots: Rays, Twins
Toast: Blue Jays, Orioles, Royals, Athletics and Mariners.
National League:
Probables: Phillies, Braves, Giants.
Still in the hunt: Brewers, Cardinals, Diamondbacks.
Longshots: Pirates, Reds.
Toast: Mets, Marlins, Nationals, Cubs, Astros, Rockies, Dodgers, Padres.
Games in April and May, win or lose, it's always "still early." Come June and July, kids are out of schools and baseball becomes a fun way to fill summer days and evenings.
But once the calendar hits August, the wins and losses become magnified, the trade deadline is over with the contenders adding pieces and the have nots selling away and looking towards the future.
Here is my list for the post-season chances: Teams that are probables, teams that are still in the hunt, teams that are a longshot and teams that are toast and playing the dreaded role of spoiler.
American League:
Probables:Red Sox, Yankees, Rangers.
Still in the hunt: Tigers, Indians, White Sox, Angels.
Longshots: Rays, Twins
Toast: Blue Jays, Orioles, Royals, Athletics and Mariners.
National League:
Probables: Phillies, Braves, Giants.
Still in the hunt: Brewers, Cardinals, Diamondbacks.
Longshots: Pirates, Reds.
Toast: Mets, Marlins, Nationals, Cubs, Astros, Rockies, Dodgers, Padres.
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