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General Discussion => Talk Zone => Topic started by: OregonStrosFan on October 09, 2009, 03:18:02 pm

Title: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 09, 2009, 03:18:02 pm
Per McTaggart's blog (http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/10/open-interview-process-will-be-interesting.html), the Astros will be conducting an 'open interview process' in their managerial search ("like they did when Wade was hired").

That means they're going to announce who's coming in to interview (or in some cases who they are going to interview) the day before the interview happens, and the candidate will be made available to the media when the interview is over. Not that we'll gain any great insight from these guys after they interview, but it will be nice to know who the candidates are and what they bring to the table.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 09, 2009, 03:21:27 pm
I look forward to strosrays' interview.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: austro on October 09, 2009, 03:38:38 pm
I look forward to strosrays' interview.

"I have a prescription."
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 09, 2009, 04:51:47 pm
i also am available.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: hostros7 on October 09, 2009, 06:17:38 pm
Not really a fan of this approach.  It gives more of a chance for the fandom hoi polloi to put a bug in Drayton's ear, which could lead to some interference in the baseball side by the business side. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: HudsonHawk on October 09, 2009, 06:26:55 pm
Not really a fan of this approach.  It gives more of a chance for the fandom hoi polloi to put a bug in Drayton's ear, which could lead to some interference in the baseball side by the business side. 

Right...got to keep *that* from happening.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 09, 2009, 07:29:21 pm
While Clark is the only manager the Astros have acknowledged will be interviewing, McTaggart tweets that Acta has been contacted as well.  LINK (http://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/4748879088)

Manny Acta acknowledges to MLB.com he has been contacted by Astros for managerial job. Story to come.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Fredia on October 09, 2009, 08:38:41 pm
i thought the astros wanted an experienced manager. a manager that is a clark can not end well
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Reuben on October 09, 2009, 08:40:05 pm
Not really a fan of this approach.  It gives more of a chance for the fandom hoi polloi to put a bug in Drayton's ear, which could lead to some interference in the baseball side by the business side.  
Or the players. The gossip on Boston talk-radio in the 03-04 offseason was that Curt Schilling at least implied to the Red Sox brass that he would be much more willing to accept the trade to Boston if they hired Terry Francona, whom Schilling loved in his Philadelphia days.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Col. Sphinx Drummond on October 09, 2009, 08:59:28 pm
Or the players. The gossip on Boston talk-radio in the 03-04 offseason was that Curt Schilling at least implied to the Red Sox brass that he would be much more willing to accept the trade to Boston if they hired Terry Francona, whom Schilling loved in his Philadelphia days.

I wonder who Schilling would suggest for the Astros?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Reuben on October 09, 2009, 09:28:27 pm
I wonder who Schilling would suggest for the Astros?
Himself? Or is he gonna run for Senate first?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Mr. Happy on October 10, 2009, 12:26:43 pm
Himself? Or is he gonna run for Senate first?

Says he is not a candidate.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 12:43:18 pm
Rob Bradford at WEEI writes that the Astros will interview a couple of BoSox coaches for mgr.  LINK (http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/this-just-in/214454/astros-interview-bogar)

The Houston Astros have requested and received permission from the Red Sox to interview first base coach Tim Bogar and bench coach Brad Mills for their vacant managerial job.

Mills has been Terry Francona's bench coach in Boston for six seasons... Mills, who played alongside Francona with the Montreal Expos in 1981-83, managed 11 seasons in the minor leagues for the Cubs (1987-92), Rockies (1993-96) and Dodgers (2002). He was first base coach for the Phillies under Francona from 1997-2000.

h/t to Astros County (http://www.astroscounty.com/2009/10/go-ahead-and-add-brad-mills-to-your.html).




Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 12:47:37 pm
Confirmed by McTaggart via Twitter (http://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/4813548798): "Red Sox bench coach Brad Mills and first base coach Tim Bogar have been given permission to interview with Astros."
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ron Brand on October 12, 2009, 12:57:53 pm
Tag just added that Bob Melvin is also a candidate for the manager's job.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 01:35:11 pm
McTaggart via Twitter (link (http://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/4814101077), link (http://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/4814119263)): 

Astros minor league field coordinator Al Pedrique also a candidate, Wade confirms.
***
Astros' six known candidates: Bob Melvin, Dave Clark, Manny Acta, Tim Bogar, Brad Mills and Al Pedrique.

Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Limey on October 12, 2009, 03:03:26 pm
McTaggart via Twitter (link (http://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/4814101077), link (http://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/4814119263)): 

Astros minor league field coordinator Al Pedrique also a candidate, Wade confirms.
***
Astros' six known candidates: Bob Melvin, Dave Clark, Manny Acta, Tim Bogar, Brad Mills and Al Pedrique.



Tony La Russa just shit himself...laughing.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 12, 2009, 03:29:29 pm
Tony La Russa just shit himself...laughing.

O RLY?

WARNING: Heyman link! (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jon_heyman/10/12/angels/1.html)

Quote
There are rumors that the Astros might try to hire the vaunted tandem of Tony La Russa and Dave Duncan (those rumors were even mentioned here once). However, Cardinals insiders say La Russa does love the history of the Cardinals and presumably isn't quite as upset as Duncan about the whole Chris Duncan situation. In a phone interview a couple weeks ago, Cardinals owner Bill DeWitt expressed some optimism that La Russa would be back. Jim Fregosi, Tim Bogar and Manny Acta have been cited as favorites for the Astros job.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Anit on October 12, 2009, 03:40:55 pm
per footers tweet: Hold onto your hats, Astros fans, 10 managerial candidates revealed today. On the list: Phil Garner. Yes, that Phil Garner.

The other nine: Dave Clark, Al Pedrique, Ned Yost, Randy Ready, Bob Melvin, Manny Acta, Brad Mills, Tim Bogar and Pete Mackanin.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BatGirl on October 12, 2009, 03:42:58 pm
per footers tweet: Hold onto your hats, Astros fans, 10 managerial candidates revealed today. On the list: Phil Garner. Yes, that Phil Garner.

happy to hear that
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 12, 2009, 03:44:02 pm
happy to hear that

Sure, why not complete McLane's transformation into Steinbrenner Lite?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 12, 2009, 03:45:57 pm
O RLY?

WARNING: Heyman link! (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jon_heyman/10/12/angels/1.html)


i'd be quite happy if those two came to Houston.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 12, 2009, 03:46:26 pm
i'd be quite happy if those two came to Houston.

Heck yeah, but the fact that Heyman says it makes it rather unlikely.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BatGirl on October 12, 2009, 03:49:24 pm
Sure, why not complete McLane's transformation into Steinbrenner Lite?

i hope they hire the best man for the job
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Matt on October 12, 2009, 03:52:31 pm
Bogar could be interesting...
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 04:41:08 pm
Mgr interview schedule: (Footer LINK (http://footer.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/10/astros_reveal_list_of_10_manag.html))

Wednesday, October 14: Dave Clark, Al Pedrique
Thursday, October 15: Ned Yost, Randy Ready
Friday, October 16: Bob Melvin, Manny Acta
Saturday, October 17: Phil Garner
Monday, October 19: Brad Mills, Tim Bogar
[TBD: Pete Mackanin]

Following the first round of interviews, the Astros expect to select a short list of finalists who will then meet for a second round of interviews with Smith, Wade, Astros Chairman and CEO Drayton McLane and Astros President of Business Operations Pam Gardner.


Pam Gardner is one of the final four interviewers? Really? FML

Additional info from Footer:

The full list: interim manager Dave Clark, Minor League Field Coordinator Al Pedrique, former Brewers manager Ned Yost, Padres hitting coach Randy Ready, former Diamondbacks manager Bob Melvin, former Nationals manager Manny Acta, Garner, Red Sox bench coach Brad Mills, Red Sox first base coach Tim Bogar and Phillies bench coach Pete Mackanin.

Everyone but Mackanin will interview this week, and Mackanin will meet with the Astros brass once his team is finished with the postseason.

The managerial candidates will be interviewed by a committee made up of Astros President of Baseball Operations Tal Smith, general manager Ed Wade, Assistant General Managers Ricky Bennett, David Gottfried and Bobby Heck and Special Assistant to the General Manager Enos Cabell.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 12, 2009, 04:45:11 pm
Thanks for the new sig.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BizidyDizidy on October 12, 2009, 04:45:31 pm
Is it just me or is this a very sad list?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: sporadic on October 12, 2009, 04:47:23 pm
Is it just me or is this a very sad list?

The elevator can only go up when it's currently located in the basement.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: matadorph on October 12, 2009, 04:52:06 pm
happy to hear that

Ecstatic to hear that! Scrap Iron never should've been fired in the first place. Bring him back, Drayton.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: David in Jackson on October 12, 2009, 04:54:05 pm
Is it just me or is this a very sad list?

I've never seen a team list all candidates like this.  Has anyone else?

Other than Garner, is there is anyone who has won at the ML level?  Is that a reflection on the team's selection of candidates, or on the type of candidates we can attract?

I can't believe I'm saying this: Why not LaRussa?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Jacksonian on October 12, 2009, 04:55:31 pm
Any of Garner, Acta, and Yost sounds good to me.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JaneDoe on October 12, 2009, 04:57:49 pm
Is it just me or is this a very sad list?

None of them get me too excited, either. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ty in Tampa on October 12, 2009, 05:02:19 pm
Ecstatic to hear that! Scrap Iron never should've been fired in the first place. Bring him back, Drayton Pam.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: GreatBagwellsBeard on October 12, 2009, 05:13:57 pm
The list doesn't have any future HoF'ers to be sure, but other than .091, who of that caliber is actually available?

I'd be cool with Melvin, Yost, Acta or Scrap Iron. No one is going to be a savior, except Heck and Bennett.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 05:17:23 pm
Thanks for the new sig.

I'm glad someone was able to find some humor in that...
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 05:19:25 pm
And on a more trivial note... Which Astros managerial candidate was Nolan Ryan's 3,509th strikeout victim when Ryan passed Walter Johnson for the all-time lead in 1983?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 05:24:13 pm
JdJO with the 'scoop' on how Scrap Iron ended up on the managerial candidates list:  LINK (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bb/6663709.html)

Garner said he hadn't considered contacting the Astros about the job until last week when he was asked what candidates should consider and know about managing this club.

"As we talked and I thought, 'What should a guy expect?' I said, 'Heck, I know all these things,'" Garner said, referring to an interview he granted the Chronicle last week. "I decided to throw my name in the hat, and they decided to take it.

"There’s no special favors. I’m going through the vetting process just like everybody else, and I’m OK with that. That’s a fine deal. I love the city. I like the city. It’s a fabulous city."

A few days after that interview, Garner was speaking with Astros president of baseball operations Tal Smith when the subject was broached.

"I called Tal Smith regarding another matter," Garner said. "We kind of broached the subject and said I’ll be interested. I gave it a thought and then we talked about it again."
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: dirty steve on October 12, 2009, 05:24:49 pm
And on a more trivial note... Which Astros managerial candidate was Nolan Ryan's 3,509th strikeout victim when Ryan passed Walter Johnson for the all-time lead in 1983?
mills with the expos, no?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Rebel Jew on October 12, 2009, 05:35:39 pm

what's the story with pedrique?  seems like he's been promoted pretty rapidly the last couple of years.  anybody heard anything about the way he's done his job?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 05:37:33 pm
mills with the expos, no?

Yessir
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Reuben on October 13, 2009, 08:41:39 am
The list doesn't have any future HoF'ers to be sure, but other than .091, who of that caliber is actually available?

I'd be cool with Melvin, Yost, Acta or Scrap Iron. No one is going to be a savior, except Heck and Bennett.
Good point. I don't know much about Randy Ready or Mackanin, but the list looks pretty solid to me- I'm glad they're not going with "name" candidates. I think Garner pt. II would be great, Yost and Acta seem like their styles would work here, and then long-time minor league guys like Bogar and Mills are intriguing as well.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: S.P. Rodriguez on October 13, 2009, 09:47:39 am
Good point. I don't know much about Randy Ready or Mackanin, but the list looks pretty solid to me- I'm glad they're not going with "name" candidates. I think Garner pt. II would be great, Yost and Acta seem like their styles would work here, and then long-time minor league guys like Bogar and Mills are intriguing as well.

Just being greedy here but I'd love to see Garner come back (he's one of my all time favorite Astros and easily my favorite Astros mgr) and bring back Clark as Bench Coach. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: GreatBagwellsBeard on October 13, 2009, 10:05:27 am
Just being greedy here but I'd love to see Garner come back (he's one of my all time favorite Astros and easily my favorite Astros mgr) and bring back Clark as Bench Coach. 

I'm inclined to believe that of the non-organizational candidates, Gar would be the most likely to retain existing coaches (Clark, Berry) instead of bringing in his own people.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 13, 2009, 10:18:46 am
Ned Yost?  Please, no.

Signed,
Voice In The Wilderness
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: austro on October 13, 2009, 10:31:56 am
Ned Yost?  Please, no.

Signed,
Voice In The Wilderness

I'm with you on Yost, and Acta, too, for that matter. And I'm sure glad that Fregosi didn't wind up on that list.

At one point, the Angels were confronted with a similar decision, and instead of recycling proven mediocrity, they decided to take a chance with Scioscia. I wonder if Bogar might not be the Astros' Scioscia.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: S.P. Rodriguez on October 13, 2009, 10:49:44 am
I'm with you on Yost, and Acta, too, for that matter. And I'm sure glad that Fregosi didn't wind up on that list.

At one point, the Angels were confronted with a similar decision, and instead of recycling proven mediocrity, they decided to take a chance with Scioscia. I wonder if Bogar might not be the Astros' Scioscia.

Pretty sure we're all wondering that about Clark and/or Bogar....   What brought about Scioscia leaving the Dodgers?  I thought he was groomed to be Lasorda's heir.  Off topic, sorry.  I just don't remember how that went down. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: HudsonHawk on October 13, 2009, 11:03:08 am
What brought about Scioscia leaving the Dodgers?  I thought he was groomed to be Lasorda's heir.

The Angels offered him a job and the Dodgers didn't.  If he was groomed to be Larorda's heir, they likely wouldn't have hired Bill Russell and Davey Johnson before him.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: 94CougarGrad on October 13, 2009, 05:30:38 pm
So is Coach's interview on the down-low to minimize the press coverage and keep things mysterious?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Col. Sphinx Drummond on October 14, 2009, 06:45:58 am
So is Coach's interview on the down-low to minimize the press coverage and keep things mysterious?

I think Coach would be a fine manager but his greatest value is his unabashed commentary. You don't want to put reigns on a wild stallion.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: 94CougarGrad on October 14, 2009, 06:59:36 am
I think Coach would be a fine manager but his greatest value is his unabashed commentary. You don't want to put reigns on a wild stallion.

I agree, but since he said he was available, I figured they'd be fools not to... hm, let me remember who we're dealing with.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 14, 2009, 07:47:36 am
I think Coach would be a fine manager but his greatest value is his unabashed commentary. You don't want to put reigns on a wild stallion.

if i am the manager, you will get both. press conferences will not be boring.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BUWebguy on October 14, 2009, 08:29:59 am
if i am the manager, you will get both. press conferences will not be boring.

That's why, as a kid, I voted for Ross Perot in our school's mock presidential elections. I thought he would at least make the State of the Union addresses interesting.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: AtascAstro on October 14, 2009, 08:58:56 am
Is it just me or does Scrap Iron seem to be gaining mementum?  He's easily my favorite of the experienced candidates mentioned so far although I'm very curious about what Bogar / Clark could do.

The thing is, you already know what Garner is going to give you
 - Performance consistent with talent
 - Unquestioned clubhouse leadership
 - Reasoned game decisions

He's probably not going to take this team on a cinderella ride beyond its talent, but JdJO will have a lot less to talk about with him in the clubhouse.  It may be a rough few years for a new manager as we wait for the farm to start producing again and an experienced hand is much less likely to oversteer.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 14, 2009, 09:00:54 am
Is it just me or does Scrap Iron seem to be gaining mementum?  He's easily my favorite of the experienced candidates mentioned so far although I'm very curious about what Bogar / Clark could do.

The thing is, you already know what Garner is going to give you


i like Garner, but i hope there is someone new.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: AtascAstro on October 14, 2009, 09:20:58 am
i like Garner, but i hope there is someone new.

I'd also wager that this may be close to Wade's sentiments as well, not sure about Tal though.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Limey on October 14, 2009, 09:22:34 am
i like Garner, but i hope there is someone new.

I like Garner too (NTTAWWT), but there's some baggage with him and I fear that the zero-to-booing time would be very quick.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Mr. Happy on October 14, 2009, 10:52:43 am
How does the group feel about Manny Acta, who managed a travelling horseshit show up in DC?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 14, 2009, 10:59:31 am
i like Garner, but i hope there is someone new.

Reminds me of a couple of questions I've been meaning to ask:

(1) What qualities do you think a manager in general should have;
(2) Are there any of those qualities above that are of particular importance for a person managing the Astros (i.e. is there something about managing in Houston that makes specific qualities more important in HOU than they may be in other places); and
(3) Who on the list do you think best fits those qualities or are there folks left off the list that you think would fit the bill (or do you have enough info on the candidates to make that judgment).

Not being sarcastic here, sincerely want to know (as based on pedigree alone I originally thought the Cooper hire was a promising move - proved way wrong on that one in the end though...). Thanks.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: juliogotay on October 14, 2009, 12:21:05 pm
How does the group feel about Manny Acta, who managed a travelling horseshit show up in DC?

Didn't the Nats start winning more when Acta left?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Kit on October 14, 2009, 01:25:59 pm
davey lopes
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Andyzipp on October 14, 2009, 01:39:04 pm
davey lopes

non sequitur
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 14, 2009, 02:20:21 pm
How does the group feel about Manny Acta, who managed a travelling horseshit show up in DC?

He had (arguably) better talent to work with than Frank Robinson, yet did considerably worse with it.  I don't know why, exactly.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: hostros7 on October 14, 2009, 02:22:57 pm
He had (arguably) better talent to work with than Frank Robinson, yet did considerably worse with it.  I don't know why, exactly.

Is Acta the one that mandated pregame infield practice?  Not sure Puma would be down with that
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 14, 2009, 02:27:29 pm
He had (arguably) better talent to work with than Frank Robinson, yet did considerably worse with it.  I don't know why, exactly.

is that Lee Harvey Oswald in your current avatar?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 14, 2009, 04:00:33 pm
is that Lee Harvey Oswald in your current avatar?

D.B. Cooper.  The anniversary of something-or-other to do with that case is coming up, which made me think of him.

I am disappointed with the avatar, though.  Can't make it big enough so you can see it very well.  I hadn't thought of it, but he could easily be mistaken for Oswald.  I'll probably change it soon.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 14, 2009, 04:05:47 pm
D.B. Cooper.  The anniversary of something-or-other to do with that case is coming up, which made me think of him.

I am disappointed with the avatar, though.  Can't make it big enough so you can see it very well.  I hadn't thought of it, but he could easily be mistaken for Oswald.  I'll probably change it soon.

i thought of him b/c i recently watched parts of a GREAT documentary on the History Channel about the JFK assassination: 3 Shots that Changed the World.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 14, 2009, 04:11:27 pm
i thought of him b/c i recently watched parts of a GREAT documentary on the History Channel about the JFK assassination: 3 Shots that Changed the World.

They had another one recently where they recreated the "magic bullet", accurately placing human models (made of gelatin, etc. to properly reflect density) in the exact position of JFK and Connolly at the time of the shot.  The trajectory was almost perfect, with the exception that the shot ended up bouncing off of "Connolly"s wrist instead of embedding.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: moriartp on October 14, 2009, 04:23:53 pm
Every time I see a documentary like that, my hatred for Oliver Stone grows a little more.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 14, 2009, 07:00:25 pm
They had another one recently where they recreated the "magic bullet", accurately placing human models (made of gelatin, etc. to properly reflect density) in the exact position of JFK and Connolly at the time of the shot.  The trajectory was almost perfect, with the exception that the shot ended up bouncing off of "Connolly"s wrist instead of embedding.

It used to irritate me - now I just laugh. . . I'd be watching some show on the History Nostradamus Channel and absolute, irrevocable evidence would be presented debunking totally whatever silly premesis was being promoted that week.  Then the narrator would say, "Yes, it appears from the detailed experiments carried out by firearms experts and Ph.Ds in physics that there was only one "magic" bullet involved that fateful day in Dealy Plaza.  But despite almost universal acceptance of the "single bullet" theory by both experts and most sane laymen, some still say the experiments aren't really conclusive; that in addition to Oswald in the Book Repository, Woody Harrelson's dad was behind a fence on the grassy knoll, firing away at Connolly while Oswald took out Kennedy. Unexplained Mysteries will continue to pursue the case, until a satisfactory conclusion is found."

With logic like that, it is not surprising that 70% of Americans believe Stone's JFK comprises the definitive facts of the case, and that the Warren Commission, the US Committee on Assassinations, etc., were just elaborate government cover-ups.  Every time this comes up, I am reminded of the terrific vignette from Slacker (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01_p-T5Q5_o), where the "Conspiracy A-Go Go" guy is trying to pick up some girl by showing her his JFK collection, and quoting to her his stupid arcane theories about the case.

As HH would say, "Go ahead.  Wallow in your ignorance."
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: austro on October 14, 2009, 07:52:09 pm
It used to irritate me - now I just laugh. . . I'd be watching some show on the History Nostradamus Channel and absolute, irrevocable evidence would be presented debunking totally whatever silly premesis was being promoted that week.  Then the narrator would say, "Yes, it appears from the detailed experiments carried out by firearms experts and Ph.Ds in physics that there was only one "magic" bullet involved that fateful day in Dealy Plaza.  But despite almost universal acceptance of the "single bullet" theory by both experts and most sane laymen, some still say the experiments aren't really conclusive; that in addition to Oswald in the Book Repository, Woody Harrelson's dad was behind a fence on the grassy knoll, firing away at Connolly while Oswald took out Kennedy. Unexplained Mysteries will continue to pursue the case, until a satisfactory conclusion is found."

With logic like that, it is not surprising that 70% of Americans believe Stone's JFK comprises the definitive facts of the case, and that the Warren Commission, the US Committee on Assassinations, etc., were just elaborate government cover-ups.  Every time this comes up, I am reminded of the terrific vignette from Slacker (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01_p-T5Q5_o), where the "Conspiracy A-Go Go" guy is trying to pick up some girl by showing her his JFK collection, and quoting to her his stupid arcane theories about the case.

As HH would say, "Go ahead.  Wallow in your ignorance."

See, also, the 9/11 Twin Towers "Truthers".
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Guinness on October 14, 2009, 08:18:38 pm
With logic like that, it is not surprising that 70% of Americans believe Stone's JFK comprises the definitive facts of the case, and that the Warren Commission, the US Committee on Assassinations, etc., were just elaborate government cover-ups
One tiny pedantic point, the HCSA did rule that at least one shot was fired from the grassy knoll.
And, and I think I'll get seriously flamed here, I don't think the men who fired the shots are as relevant as finding out who ordered the shots fired.  I'm not a 9/11 truther or a birther, btw.  I just think there was more to the JFK assasination than was revealed in the investigations.  Maybe rogue gov't elements, maybe mafia, maybe Cuba, but certainly a conspiracy, and certainly the players remain unknown.  It will never be revealed in my lifetime, and my life is not changed either way, but I believe there was more to it than the Warren Commission revealed.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 14, 2009, 09:00:24 pm
Right, Oliver. Fucking bullshit. Right. The US government killed Kennedy. Fucking idiocy.The Warren Commission was in on it, right?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BizidyDizidy on October 14, 2009, 09:12:36 pm
Anytime you have to preface a statement by saying you are not a 9/11 truther you are probably FOS
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 14, 2009, 09:16:22 pm
One tiny pedantic point, the HCSA did rule that at least one shot was fired from the grassy knoll

Which was based on a faulty analysis of the audio recordingsfrom the plaza.

Quote
And, and I think I'll get seriously flamed here, I don't think the men who fired the shots are as relevant as finding out who ordered the shots fired.  I'm not a 9/11 truther or a birther, btw.  I just think there was more to the JFK assasination than was revealed in the investigations.  Maybe rogue gov't elements, maybe mafia, maybe Cuba, but certainly a conspiracy, and certainly the players remain unknown.  It will never be revealed in my lifetime, and my life is not changed either way, but I believe there was more to it than the Warren Commission revealed.

Or it was one lone crazy guy.  Occam, meet Razor.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 14, 2009, 10:48:06 pm
I don't think the men who fired the shots are as relevant as finding out who ordered the shots fired.  I'm not a 9/11 truther or a birther, btw.  I just think there was more to the JFK assasination than was revealed in the investigations.  Maybe rogue gov't elements, maybe mafia, maybe Cuba, but certainly a conspiracy, and certainly the players remain unknown.  It will never be revealed in my lifetime, and my life is not changed either way, but I believe there was more to it than the Warren Commission revealed.

No matter what or how much evidence to the contrary is presented?  No matter how little or no evidence is found to support the conspiracy theories?  Is there any scenario under which you can envision yourself accepting that Oswald was clearly deranged and acting alone?  What exactly would it take to make you believe this?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Bench on October 15, 2009, 12:31:09 am
No matter what or how much evidence to the contrary is presented?  No matter how little or no evidence is found to support the conspiracy theories?  Is there any scenario under which you can envision yourself accepting that Oswald was clearly deranged and acting alone?  What exactly would it take to make you believe this?

A confession.

Cue the seance!
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: TheWizard on October 15, 2009, 04:25:11 am
It was the communists, man.  The communists.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: subnuclear on October 15, 2009, 04:50:12 am
It was the communists, man.  The communists.

Well, one communist anyway.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: S.P. Rodriguez on October 15, 2009, 07:18:22 am
Well, one communist anyway.

From all I've read about Oswald, I am split dead even between him being a committed communist versus a poor schmuck who was really hard up for some female attention.  This type of whack-job will do just about anything to get attention. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Guinness on October 15, 2009, 07:39:08 am
Right, Oliver. Fucking bullshit. Right. The US government killed Kennedy. Fucking idiocy.The Warren Commission was in on it, right?

You have a habit of jumping to conclusions about people's opinions.  I said, in essence, that I didn't believe the whole of the Warren report, and that HCSA found evidence suggesting a second gunman (not wholly based on the acoustical evidence).  I don't happen to buy into lone nut theories.
I referenced truthers and birthers because of austro's previous post.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 15, 2009, 08:11:43 am
From all I've read about Oswald, I am split dead even between him being a committed communist versus a poor schmuck who was really hard up for some female attention.  This type of whack-job will do just about anything to get attention. 

Right.  Allegiance to communism: minor annoyance.  Assassinating president: trifling detail.  Getting laid: priceless.

A "broken home" seems to be a common denominator for several of the "lone killer" types.  Interesting, too, is that his brother seems to have turned out basically normal.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: subnuclear on October 15, 2009, 08:15:41 am
From all I've read about Oswald, I am split dead even between him being a committed communist versus a poor schmuck who was really hard up for some female attention.  This type of whack-job will do just about anything to get attention.  

Those aren't mutually exclusive.  He definitely was a communist and he shot a president, and not a random person, so there was a political component to it.   But he was also screwed in the head, which is probably more important.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Tralfaz on October 15, 2009, 08:21:40 am
WAY to lazy to read the 5 page transition from Managerial search to JFK conspiracy but thoroughly entertained.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: S.P. Rodriguez on October 15, 2009, 09:02:00 am
Those aren't mutually exclusive.  He definitely was a communist and he shot a president, and not a random person, so there was a political component to it.   But he was also screwed in the head, which is probably more important.

Thanks for highlighting just how flat my sarcastic humor is.... not that I don't get daily reminders. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Duman on October 15, 2009, 09:21:07 am
WAY to lazy to read the 5 page transition from Managerial search to JFK conspiracy but thoroughly entertained.

I am assuming someone back on page 3 nominated the shooter on the grassy knoll as the next manager.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 15, 2009, 09:32:35 am
YouTube clip of the single bullet test (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZRUNYZY71g)

The beauty of this is that they took the results (not identified) to LA's leading forensic pathologist, and he said that based on the wounds, it had to be two bullets.  That is, right up until they showed him the video.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: VirtualBob on October 15, 2009, 09:50:57 am
I wish I could find the Shooter scene where the old guy says he still has the shovel.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 15, 2009, 10:17:28 am
I wish I could find the Shooter scene where the old guy says he still has the shovel.

Mr. Rate: That's how a conspiracy works. Them boys on the Grassy Knoll they were dead within three hours, buried in the damned desert, unmarked graves out past Terlingua.

Nick Memphis: You know this for a fact?

Mr. Rate: Still got the shovel...
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: VirtualBob on October 15, 2009, 11:14:02 am
Mr. Rate: That's how a conspiracy works. Them boys on the Grassy Knoll they were dead within three hours, buried in the damned desert, unmarked graves out past Terlingua.

Nick Memphis: You know this for a fact?

Mr. Rate: Still got the shovel...

That's the one ... I was actually trying to find a YouTube clip, but no success.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: austro on October 15, 2009, 11:19:20 am
I wish I could find the Shooter scene where the old guy says he still has the shovel.

There was a movie, maybe 25 years ago, where a South Texas flash flood uncovers a jeep with two skeletons and several ammo boxes of cash in a ravine. Our protagonist (I think) goes about trying to figure out who these guys were and how long there were buried, and eventually figures out that they were fleeing south on November 22, 1963. Naturally, his questions eventually land him in danger. Anybody remember that movie?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Taras Bulba on October 15, 2009, 11:24:03 am
There was a movie, maybe 25 years ago, where a South Texas flash flood uncovers a jeep with two skeletons and several ammo boxes of cash in a ravine. Our protagonist (I think) goes about trying to figure out who these guys were and how long there were buried, and eventually figures out that they were fleeing south on November 22, 1963. Naturally, his questions eventually land him in danger. Anybody remember that movie?

"Behind the Green Door."
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 15, 2009, 11:31:10 am
There was a movie, maybe 25 years ago, where a South Texas flash flood uncovers a jeep with two skeletons and several ammo boxes of cash in a ravine. Our protagonist (I think) goes about trying to figure out who these guys were and how long there were buried, and eventually figures out that they were fleeing south on November 22, 1963. Naturally, his questions eventually land him in danger. Anybody remember that movie?

PeteM wrote the screenplay.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Guinness on October 15, 2009, 11:32:35 am
PeteM wrote the screenplay.

haha.


I actually remember that movie, with Kris Kristofferson?  I don't remember the Nov 22nd angle, but I do remember it was a bad movie.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Col. Sphinx Drummond on October 15, 2009, 11:34:15 am
I'm not the kind of person to preface a statement, but, I've been on the fence regarding did he act alone or was he following Communist Hollywood Cuban Mafia orders. Now after reading this thread and tallying the results, I'm more sure than ever.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: JimR on October 15, 2009, 11:38:31 am
I'm not the kind of person to preface a statement, but, I've been on the fence regarding did he act alone or was he following Communist Hollywood Cuban Mafia orders. Now after reading this thread and tallying the results, I'm more sure than ever.

i think RFK arranged the hit. he loved Marilyn, but John had her.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 15, 2009, 11:42:19 am
There was a movie, maybe 25 years ago, where a South Texas flash flood uncovers a jeep with two skeletons and several ammo boxes of cash in a ravine. Our protagonist (I think) goes about trying to figure out who these guys were and how long there were buried, and eventually figures out that they were fleeing south on November 22, 1963. Naturally, his questions eventually land him in danger. Anybody remember that movie?

The Link (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087268/)
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: austro on October 15, 2009, 11:46:08 am
I actually remember that movie, with Kris Kristofferson?  I don't remember the Nov 22nd angle, but I do remember it was a bad movie.

Yup, it was Kristofferson: Flashpoint (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087268/). I thought Kristofferson at first, but then decided that, no, I was getting confused by his role in Lone Star (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116905/). But he was in both. At least I was right about the 25 years.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Guinness on October 15, 2009, 11:47:47 am
The Link (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087268/)

Dang, they don't list me as one of the writers.  Anybody know a lawyer?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 15, 2009, 11:50:36 am
Dang, they don't list me as one of the writers.  Anybody know a lawyer?

The Link (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Garrison)
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Guinness on October 15, 2009, 11:52:34 am
The Link (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Garrison)

Nice one...
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Col. Sphinx Drummond on October 15, 2009, 11:53:10 am
i think RFK arranged the hit. he loved Marilyn, but John had her.
DiMaggio hated the Kennedys, and he was Italian.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Lurch on October 15, 2009, 12:35:55 pm
Kennedy wanted to film the moon landing in Massachusetts but the Jewish Mafia had already secured rights in Hollywood and needed to protect their investment.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: HudsonHawk on October 15, 2009, 12:49:43 pm
D.B. Cooper. 

I was wondering if it was Cooper or Hunter S. Thompson.  They kind of look alike.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Fredia on October 15, 2009, 01:02:49 pm
so after all of this it might be just keeping it in the house and hiring someone already with an astros association. and the reason being?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Waldo on October 15, 2009, 01:04:24 pm
so after all of this it might be just keeping it in the house and hiring someone already with an astros association.

Since when is Abraham Zapruder an "in-house" hiring?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Jacksonian on October 15, 2009, 01:17:05 pm
Kennedy wanted to film the moon landing in Massachusetts but the Jewish Mafia had already secured rights in Hollywood and needed to protect their investment.

How old was OJ in November of 63?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: GreatBagwellsBeard on October 15, 2009, 02:00:54 pm
The grassy knoll had shooters, not stabbers, silly.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: strosrays on October 15, 2009, 02:21:40 pm
Judging from this thread so far, I predict the Astros will soon name Kevin Kennedy as their new manager.

Unfortunately, Kennedy's reign will be cut short by a troubled loner, Roy Edward Oswalt.  Some will speculate Oswalt did not off Kennedy all on his own; but rather was in league with a Cuban (Mav's owner/dot.com weirdo Mark, secretly angling to wrest the Astros from Drayton McLane), Chronicalists (Justice and JdJO mostly, spewing their usual bile), and the Marching Owl Band (??).

After a brief period of mourning, the Astros will name Kennedy's successor, Davey Johnson.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 15, 2009, 02:28:58 pm
Judging from this thread so far, I predict the Astros will soon name Kevin Kennedy as their new manager.

Unfortunately, Kennedy's reign will be cut short by a troubled loner, Roy Edward Oswalt.  Some will speculate Oswalt did not off Kennedy all on his own; but rather was in league with a Cuban (Mav's owner/dot.com weirdo Mark, secretly angling to wrest the Astros from Drayton McLane), Chronicalists (Justice and JdJO mostly, spewing their usual bile), and the Marching Owl Band (??).

After a brief period of mourning, the Astros will name Kennedy's successor, Davey Johnson.

Winner, and nominated.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: S.P. Rodriguez on October 16, 2009, 04:38:30 pm
Getting back to topic, if re-hiring Garner doesn't work, I think Melvin would be a solid pick (not that any of them could be worse than Cooper).  But there's a history of him having success with teams with a mix of veterans and young'uns.  Plus, he has a Garner tie and that gives me hope he manages in a similar style.  Anyway, that's my 2 cents, and I know exactly what it's worth.... nothing, that's what. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BUWebguy on October 16, 2009, 08:40:20 pm
Getting back to topic, if re-hiring Garner doesn't work, I think Melvin would be a solid pick (not that any of them could be worse than Cooper).  But there's a history of him having success with teams with a mix of veterans and young'uns.  Plus, he has a Garner tie and that gives me hope he manages in a similar style.  Anyway, that's my 2 cents, and I know exactly what it's worth.... nothing, that's what. 

Just to keep you from sleeping well tonight... Cooper had a Garner tie, too.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Bench on October 17, 2009, 03:37:51 am
Just to keep you from sleeping well tonight... Cooper had a Garner tie, too.

But not 2 cents worth.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Reuben on October 20, 2009, 09:23:52 am
Now that all 10 candidates have been interviewed, some interesting Wade quotes:
Quote
Wade said Monday the remainder of the Astros' managerial search will be done in private... the team's next public announcement in the process will be the hiring of a manager.

"We've been open on this thing, but I don't want it to get to the point of 'Dancing With The Stars,'" Wade said,

"At this stage we're comfortable with a real solid group of candidates, and our next manager should come out of this group, but we need to continue the process," Wade said.
Link (http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091019&content_id=7495746&vkey=news_hou&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou)
So you could interpret this to mean that it's possible they will secretly interview other candidates. By the way, the Reds, rumored to be a possible destination for Dave Duncan and/or Tony La Russa, just hired Bryan Price as their pitching coach. The Brewers also just hired Rick Petersen. Meanwhile, last week Dave Duncan told a reporter (http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/10213718/Cards%27-Duncan:-I%27m-waiting-for-La-Russa%27s-decision), "I want to wait and see what Tony does before I make a decision."
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BlownRanger on October 21, 2009, 12:26:21 pm
Is it just me or does Scrap Iron seem to be gaining mementum?  He's easily my favorite of the experienced candidates mentioned so far although I'm very curious about what Bogar / Clark could do.

The thing is, you already know what Garner is going to give you
 - Performance consistent with talent
 - Unquestioned clubhouse leadership
 - Reasoned game decisions

He's probably not going to take this team on a cinderella ride beyond its talent, but JdJO will have a lot less to talk about with him in the clubhouse.  It may be a rough few years for a new manager as we wait for the farm to start producing again and an experienced hand is much less likely to oversteer.

"Reasoned game decisions"???

Look, I can appreciate all the ammo that Garner's supporters can bring to the discussion:
1)  Post-season play in his first two seasons;
2)  Three post-season series wins (which is 3 more than all of his predecessors and successors combined);
3)  The incredible stretch drives in his first three seasons point to his ability to keep a team focused and motivated;
4)  No doubt as to who's in charge

The reason I'm unwilling to accept "reasoned game decisions" is the fact that hardly a game was played during which, at some point, I was not scratching my head, saying "What the fuck was he thinking?!?!"

Nonetheless, when I weigh all the factors, I won't be too disappointed if Garner gets the call.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Fredia on October 21, 2009, 12:47:19 pm
when will we as astros fans finally get the word so we can go to work telling them how the team should be managed
and i can take garners what the fuck any day over coopers well cant even give him credit for thay
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 21, 2009, 12:50:35 pm
The reason I'm unwilling to accept "reasoned game decisions" is the fact that hardly a game was played during which, at some point, I was not scratching my head, saying "What the fuck was he thinking?!?!"

There was pretty much a sound reason for most all of Gar's decisions.  You may not have agreed with the reason, but it was there.  Look at .093 - batting the pitcher 8th may seem insane, but he does have a reason behind it.

The average fan will second-guess even the perfect manager's decisions. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BlownRanger on October 21, 2009, 01:01:01 pm
There was pretty much a sound reason for most all of Gar's decisions.  You may not have agreed with the reason, but it was there.  Look at .093 - batting the pitcher 8th may seem insane, but he does have a reason behind it.

The average fan will second-guess even the perfect manager's decisions. 

I'm gonna have a hard time coming to grips with any explanation for having your pitcher attempt a suicide squeeze with no outs.  Just to site one example.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 21, 2009, 01:04:37 pm
I'm gonna have a hard time coming to grips with any explanation for having your pitcher attempt a suicide squeeze with no outs.  Just to site one example.


I'd call for it in a tie game.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: homer on October 21, 2009, 01:10:01 pm
I'd call for it in a tie game.

Runners at the corners with one out or no outs. Behind a run or tied.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: WakePhil on October 21, 2009, 05:18:53 pm
Pinwheel reports (http://blogs.chron.com/sportsjustice/archives/2009/10/acta_moves_to_t.html) that Acta gets a second interview and is the frontrunner. Other than being the first to get a second interview (that we know of) and "loving the Astros," I'm not sure how he determines that Acta is the frontrunner.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: juliogotay on October 21, 2009, 05:30:44 pm
This is not a scoop from Pinhead.  http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091021&content_id=7516200&vkey=news_hou&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: homer on October 21, 2009, 05:46:44 pm
Jaramillo to cubs per mlb network.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: austro on October 21, 2009, 05:48:51 pm
Jaramillo to cubs per mlb network.

That would be unfortunate.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Alkie on October 21, 2009, 08:16:17 pm
Wait, wait, wait.

The qualifications now for the next Astros manager are:

1) Met wife indirectly because of Astros baseball
2) Understands the hiring process

Really?

So, um, when do I get to interview?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Bench on October 21, 2009, 08:25:05 pm
Wait, wait, wait.

The qualifications now for the next Astros manager are:

1) Met wife indirectly because of Astros baseball
2) Understands the hiring process

Really?

So, um, when do I get to interview?

Pam is accepting resumes.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 21, 2009, 11:31:41 pm
Per Footer tweet: Interesting. Berman reporting Astros are "focusing" on 4 mgr candidates: Acta, Mills, Garner, Clark.

JdJO also talking about Acta and Mills being in the mix.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: AtascAstro on October 21, 2009, 11:49:53 pm
"Reasoned game decisions"???

The reason I'm unwilling to accept "reasoned game decisions" is the fact that hardly a game was played during which, at some point, I was not scratching my head, saying "What the fuck was he thinking?!?!"


The word was carefully chosen.  Garner was routinely asked about his game decisions and he always had a "reasoned" answer, he always had a reason for what he did.  Whether he was following baseball convention, some statistical advantage, or his gut he always had an answer for both the decision he chose and the ones he didn't.  He had thought it through and he was willing to share that thought process with me, the fan.  It is probably one of the things I remember most about him as a manager and I genuinely appreciated his honesty and candidness.  Spoke volumes about his confidence and character.

I don't think I'd be terribly upset with any of the candidates they've brought in but honestly, I don't know much about them beyond what Tag has in his blogs. 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 22, 2009, 09:20:13 am
Wait, wait, wait.

The qualifications now for the next Astros manager are:

1) Met wife indirectly because of Astros baseball
2) Understands the hiring process

Really?

So, um, when do I get to interview?

You REALLY understand the interview process?  You know Pam's safe word and everything?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: austro on October 22, 2009, 09:31:01 am
You REALLY understand the interview process?  You know Pam's safe word and everything?

Oh, please. Everybody knows it's "Hunter".
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 22, 2009, 09:59:21 am
Oh, please. Everybody knows it's "Hunter".

You owe MusicMan 1/2 your POTW for this one should you win... Nominated
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MRaup on October 22, 2009, 10:49:42 am
Oh, please. Everybody knows it's "Hunter".

The only time "Hunter" is a safe word is if you're a right handed pitcher with a good slider and a 2 strike count.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Alkie on October 22, 2009, 12:01:18 pm
What did Noe say?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Bench on October 22, 2009, 12:17:30 pm
What did Noe say?

Keep listening.  He'll say it again.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: astrosfan76 on October 23, 2009, 12:43:54 pm
And there were three:

Quote
As owner Drayton McLane heads into the weekend, Phil Garner, Manny Acta and Brad Mills remain the lone finalists to replace Cecil Cooper, and the Astros' owner expects to have a decision by early next week.

Goes on to say that McLane, Wade, and Tal will be making final reference calls on Acta and Mills and that Pam is a big part of the internal conversations, as well (no shocker).  How did someone in Business Operations gain enough power to be part of those conversations in the first place?

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bb/6682681.html
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 23, 2009, 01:16:19 pm
And there were three:

Per JdJO anyway... "Phil Garner, Manny Acta and Brad Mills remain the lone finalists to replace Cecil Cooper"

McTaggart is singing a different tune (LINK) (http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/10/astros-focused-on-four-candidates.html): "...the Astros remained focused on four candidates: Acta, Mills, Phil Garner and Dave Clark.  None of these four have been rule out by the Astros..."

Anyone giving JdJO the benefit of the doubt here?


Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: moriartp on October 23, 2009, 01:28:30 pm
Anyone giving JdJO the benefit of the doubt here?


Is the pope Jewish?


ETA: Just a cheap shot at JdJO. I don't know if his information is accurate at present, but I'd be willing to bet that Clark doesn't wind up with the job.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 23, 2009, 02:16:39 pm

Is the pope Jewish?


ETA: Just a cheap shot at JdJO. I don't know if his information is accurate at present, but I'd be willing to bet that Clark doesn't wind up with the job.

It's not a cheap shot.  There's nothing in JdJO's track record to show that he ever deserves the benefit of the doubt over a legitimate news source.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ebby Calvin on October 23, 2009, 02:20:24 pm
...a legitimate news source.

You found one?!?!  Where?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BUWebguy on October 23, 2009, 03:38:41 pm
Wasn't there some conjecture that Mackanin could still be the running, as well, but with no follow-up interview until the Phils are eliminated?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Col. Sphinx Drummond on October 23, 2009, 11:43:04 pm
How did someone in Business Operations gain enough power to be part of those conversations in the first place?

Normally it would be a proficiency at giving blow jobs and/or possession of compromising photos, however, this case is a bit more mysterious than normal.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Alkie on October 24, 2009, 08:43:42 am
She had the biggest dick and so, under Texas law, she gets to be on the Investment Committee.

Them's the rules boys.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Clark in Denver on October 24, 2009, 09:59:53 am
How did someone in Business Operations gain enough power to be part of those conversations in the first place?

I know nothing about this particular situation, but this isn't all that uncommon in professional sports.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: astrosfan76 on October 24, 2009, 10:10:12 pm
I know nothing about this particular situation, but this isn't all that uncommon in professional sports.

For a manager, though?  I don't agree with bringing them in for a FA signing or trade, but I can at least see the logic if the owner wants to know what kind of ROI he can expect financially.  But, outside of possibly Garner (which would be subtle at best), I don't see how any of the managing options are going to have any varying effect at the turnstiles.  Sure, you have some "fans" that say option X is a bum because he couldn't compete with a horrible club.  But, typically a manager isn't going to provide any kind of draw independent of team performance.  So, what does business ops add to the discussion? 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 25, 2009, 04:54:38 am
(via Astros County (http://www.astroscounty.com/2009/10/acta-and-mills.html))

Gaffer gossip

According to a baseball official, the next Astros manager is apparently down to Red Sox bench coach Brad Mills and former Nationals manager Manny Acta. Acta may have an edge because he came up in the Houston system, but he is also a finalist for the job in Cleveland, complicating matters a bit.


Link via Michael Silverman at Boston Globe.com (http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/baseball/other_mlb/view/20091024nick_swisher_stuck_in_slump_yankees_of_hitting_103_in_playoffs/srvc=home&position=also)
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Andyzipp on October 25, 2009, 10:18:37 am
For what it's worth, I'm hearing Mills made a hell of an impression.

(Grain of salt here) McLane wanted Acta prior to the interviews, but Mills really gave them a lot to think about.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Lurch on October 25, 2009, 11:33:51 am
For what it's worth, I'm hearing Mills made a hell of an impression.

(Grain of salt here) McLane wanted Acta prior to the interviews, but Mills really gave them a lot to think about.

You buying that Gar is out?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 25, 2009, 02:23:21 pm
"Acta turns down offer, accepts Indians job" JdJO LINK (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bb/6685437.html)

Less than two weeks since declaring a potential return to the Astros as too good to be true, Manny Acta ended talks with the club after intense flirtations Saturday. Instead, he chose the Cleveland Indians.

According to a person with knowledge of the negotiations, the length of the Astros’ offer to Acta became a major hang up on Saturday night.

The Indians hired Acta on Sunday, giving him a three-year deal with a club option for 2013.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 25, 2009, 02:57:16 pm
And in other JdJO drivel: "[Ed Wade] incit[ed] Shawn Chacon to attack [him]."  [blog LINK (http://blogs.chron.com/baseballblog/archives/2009/10/mama_called_and.html)]

Seriously, what would it take to get this guy fired?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 25, 2009, 03:33:36 pm
McTaggart via Twitter (LINK) (http://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/5154930196): "HOU offered Acta 2-year deal with 1-year option; CLE offered Acta 3-year deal with 1-year option. He turned down HOU and chose CLE."
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ron Brand on October 25, 2009, 04:30:26 pm
Damn. I guess this means Cleveland is committed to winning and Drayton isn't willing to spend what it takes. Damn.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: S.P. Rodriguez on October 25, 2009, 06:54:34 pm
Meh... When a team like the Nat's plays 4 games short of .500 baseball (33-41) AFTER firing the manager, playing far worse before (26-61), I'm not so sure said manager can be considered a "proven" commodity, regardless of his Astros ties or whether his heart is shaped like an Astros star (NTTAWWT).  I guess I don't see how his signing with Cleveland is a huge loss or black-eye for the organization.  Then again, I was never a fan of Acta.  For what it's worth (nada), I liked Melvin and Mills, just from reading about both.  Garner is still my first choice.  We'll just have to wait and see....
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ron Brand on October 25, 2009, 07:40:23 pm
Acta would have been a fool to turn down three guaranteed years. And McLane would've been one to offer that kind of deal. From what little I know from being past the back bench, any of these finalists would be a good, competent hire. It's not like they're casting for Moses here.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Bench on October 25, 2009, 09:27:08 pm
Acta would have been a fool to turn down three guaranteed years. And McLane would've been one to offer that kind of deal. From what little I know from being past the back bench, any of these finalists would be a good, competent hire. It's not like they're casting for Moses here.

But, you gotta admit.  Moses would kick ass as a manager.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Alkie on October 25, 2009, 09:38:29 pm
But, you gotta admit.  Moses would kick ass as a manager.

I didn't think Alou wanted the job.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ron Brand on October 25, 2009, 09:57:09 pm
I didn't think Alou wanted the job.

Moises? Moses (http://bill.goldschein.name/images/Moses%20Malone.jpg)? Mouses (http://www.thewho.info/wfc/images/DoTheMouse-LP.jpg)?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Bench on October 25, 2009, 10:11:13 pm
I didn't think Alou wanted the job.

He's still holding out for the treadmill/bicycle risk management position.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: TheWizard on October 25, 2009, 11:59:45 pm
But, you gotta admit.  Moses would kick ass as a manager.
Eh, I dunno, his laid back apparel consisting of loose fitting clothes and flip flops could really send the wrong message to the young players and rub some fans the wrong way, like he isn't committed to winning.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Duman on October 26, 2009, 04:18:05 am
Eh, I dunno, his laid back apparel consisting of loose fitting clothes and flip flops could really send the wrong message to the young players and rub some fans the wrong way, like he isn't committed to winning.

But having  his brother Aaron for a bench coach, who can turn his staff into a snake, would make for some great clubhouse pranks.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: astrosfan76 on October 26, 2009, 08:23:08 am
But having  his brother Aaron for a bench coach, who can turn his staff into a snake, would make for some great clubhouse pranks.

Just think how inspirational seeing a burning Bus(c)h could be.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: MusicMan on October 26, 2009, 08:39:38 am
Acta would have been a fool to turn down three guaranteed years. And McLane would've been one to offer that kind of deal.


Whoa, whoa, whoa,... WHAT?!?!?!?

It's foolish to think that your first choice for manager will manage more than two seasons?!?!?!

If Acta really was their first choice, then it's a damned foolish move to not match Cleveland's offer.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BudGirl on October 26, 2009, 08:58:22 am
Personally, I think they need to offer 3 years.  I think the next two years are going to be rough for any manager.  The 3rd year is when they should be shine.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BizidyDizidy on October 26, 2009, 09:01:39 am
If history is our guide, I assume he will win the next 3 Manager of the Years.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ron Brand on October 26, 2009, 02:00:58 pm

Whoa, whoa, whoa,... WHAT?!?!?!?

It's foolish to think that your first choice for manager will manage more than two seasons?!?!?!

If Acta really was their first choice, then it's a damned foolish move to not match Cleveland's offer.

I disagree. It's not about them thinking he'll be there for more than two seasons, it's about offering a contract that guarantees three. If he's that successful, it'll be renegotiated anyway. If he isn't, they'd be stuck paying him just like they're stuck paying Cecil Cooper. This is, after all, Manny Acta and not John McGraw. He's got some track record, but nothing incredible and I think locking him in for three years is a poor decision. Like it matters what I think.

Anyway - yes, he's the first choice but a) he's Manny Acta and b) it's not like he was a huge runaway leader, distancing himself easily from the pack. He was the leader, but it seems that the others were pretty close too.

Now, he may turn out to be John McGraw, but he isn't right now and I don't have a problem with the Astros' position on this one. Not until he BECOMES John McGraw, and then I'll have to bitch and moan and gripe and act like I knew it all along.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Mr. Happy on October 26, 2009, 03:02:05 pm
I thought that Acta was a good fit for the Astros. Hate to see him off of the table.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BUWebguy on October 26, 2009, 07:01:37 pm
it's not like he was a huge runaway leader, distancing himself easily from the pack. He was the leader, but it seems that the others were pretty close too.

It seems Acta was enough ahead of the others that they're having to call Mills and Clark back in for a third round of interviews to decide between them.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Tralfaz on October 27, 2009, 08:02:50 am
It seems Acta was enough ahead of the others that they're having to call Mills and Clark back in for a third round of interviews to decide between them.


So Garner is out of the picture?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: I'm Richies Dad on October 27, 2009, 08:56:16 am
I would assume Garner would be the guy then.  If they wanted Clark why not just name him manager after the season since he was the interim?  I'd like to see what Mills has but I am thinking they'll go veteran.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: homer on October 27, 2009, 09:44:20 am
For what it's worth, I'm hearing Mills made a hell of an impression.

(Grain of salt here) McLane wanted Acta prior to the interviews, but Mills really gave them a lot to think about.

What are you hearing now?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Andyzipp on October 27, 2009, 10:29:02 am
In Sacramento, so not a hell of a lot.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: BUWebguy on October 27, 2009, 11:32:19 am
So Garner is out of the picture?

Garner still in the mix:
http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/10/garner-still-in-mix.html
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ron Brand on October 27, 2009, 12:43:10 pm
Garner still in the mix:
http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/10/garner-still-in-mix.html

Maybe not, Footer just tweeted that it's Mills.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 27, 2009, 12:46:33 pm
Maybe not, Footer just tweeted that it's Mills.

McTaggart twittering the same thing.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 27, 2009, 12:52:17 pm
Per McIlvoy (http://twitter.com/RandyMcIlvoy/status/5206401548): "3pm news conf. Astros will introduce Mills as Manager"
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Reuben on October 27, 2009, 12:53:24 pm
Maybe not, Footer just tweeted that it's Mills.
Cool. I'm excited to see what he's like as a manager.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Ron Brand on October 27, 2009, 12:54:07 pm
Story's up now: http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/10/mills-gets-astros-manager-job-1.html (http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/10/mills-gets-astros-manager-job-1.html).
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Alkie on October 27, 2009, 12:56:10 pm
Excellent news.

This is exactly the fellow-I've-never-heard-of-until-this-job-search that makes me feel better.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: S.P. Rodriguez on October 27, 2009, 01:50:16 pm
Excellent news.

This is exactly the fellow-I've-never-heard-of-until-this-job-search that makes me feel better.



tap... tap... tap..tap tap... Is this thing on?  I think my sarc-o-meter just went out.... 
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Alkie on October 27, 2009, 02:10:00 pm
tap... tap... tap..tap tap... Is this thing on?  I think my sarc-o-meter just went out.... 

Yeah.

Back to the B&Q with me.

Fun while it lasted.
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: S.P. Rodriguez on October 27, 2009, 02:55:21 pm
Yeah.

Back to the B&Q with me.

Fun while it lasted.

Yeah, just don't feel like you gotta lock the door when you leave....

For some oddball reason, I can appreciate this hire more than the "Heart Shaped like a Star" Acta hire.  I have no idea why I like it more but I do.  And thanks for blowing the fuse on the sarc-o-meter.....
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: Duman on October 27, 2009, 04:24:04 pm
you think Bogar gets promoted to Mills position with the Sawks or has a chance to return to Houston to be a bench coach under Mills?
Title: Re: Manager search - open interview process
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 27, 2009, 05:08:05 pm
you think Bogar gets promoted to Mills position with the Sawks or has a chance to return to Houston to be a bench coach under Mills?

Per McTaggart (via Twitter) (http://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/5207671271): Bogar says he hasn't given thought to joining Mills' staff and is happy in Boston.

In other words, no idea...