Messages

1

Beer and Queso / Re: A&M to SEC?

« on: September 08, 2011, 06:19:30 pm »

For the record, Purple Book Cat was so spot-on with his stuff regarding the last round of B1G expansion that Delaney publicly complained about leaks out of HQ. I know that has nothing to do with this particular rumor, but he's not just some guy pulling stuff out of his ass*.

*And if he is, he's really, really, good at it.

At any rate, UT/ND to the B1G is my (and probably the majority of B1G fans') dream scenario. I'm not getting my hopes up, but it would make for some fantastic football.

2

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Re: Astros @ Jints, 8/27

« on: August 27, 2011, 08:56:55 pm »

Good to see Mills is running that Michaels kid out there again--might as well see what they've got in him.

3

Beer and Queso / Re: A&M to SEC?

« on: August 13, 2011, 05:03:04 pm »

Why is it a better fit academically?

Well, my thought is that membership in the B1G comes with a membership to the CIC, which is one of the nation's top academic consortia, but if you're talking about individual academics between B1G and PAC-12 schools, it's probably a wash.

4

Beer and Queso / Re: A&M to SEC?

« on: August 13, 2011, 02:58:27 pm »

That's understandable, but my question is, would the benefits to the football, basketball, and academic programs be enough to offset any disadvantages to the baseball program? From my outsider's point of view, it just seems like from the football/basketball/academics viewpoint, the B1G is a better fit than the PAC-10.

5

Beer and Queso / Re: A&M to SEC?

« on: August 13, 2011, 02:31:47 pm »

Penn Stater here, and I'd love to see Texas join the B1G. The rumor is that Delaney is trying to bring UT, ND, UNC, and Duke in to form our 16-team super-conference, which would be outstanding.

6

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Re: Brewers at Astros 8/5/11

« on: August 05, 2011, 05:06:08 pm »

Happ's pitching, so Ted Williams could be batting third and it wouldn't much matter.

7

Talk Zone / Re: Man, this is fun.

« on: August 04, 2011, 02:34:45 pm »

Honestly, for me it's been a little underwhelming watching the last few days. It'd be one thing if all these youngsters were the future of the team, but I can't shake the feeling that most won't be around in a couple of years aside from Lyles, Altuve, and maybe Bourgeois. But that's just me.

I think we'll know more about some of these kids next year, after the pro scouts have had a chance to dissect their game. Then we'll see which guys were just having rookie luck and which can make the necessary adjustments to stick in the bigs.

8

Talk Zone / Re: Bourn the next to go?!?

« on: August 01, 2011, 11:11:56 am »

Bourn won't ever be a Type A under the current ranking system.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but by the time Bourn will be a free agent, they'll have new CBA in place, correct? I've read that compensation picks may go the way of the dodo, especially if it's tied into a deal to get a hard-slotting system for the draft.

9

Talk Zone / Re: Pence to Atlanta?

« on: July 29, 2011, 01:41:54 pm »

I just hope this happens soon, I'd like to at least be sorta productive this afternoon...

10

Beer and Queso / Re: Aso

« on: July 28, 2011, 07:14:25 pm »

Texans out on Scrabble, have apparently agreed to a 5-year contract with Jonathon Joseph.

11

Talk Zone / Re: Yanks looking for a lefty?

« on: July 28, 2011, 10:11:57 am »

Wandy does have great splits vs. lefties...it will just need to be seen if the Yanks can get over their reported fear that Wandy's stuff won't play in the AL (which btw is complete horseshit).

12

Talk Zone / Re: Fukudome to Yanks

« on: July 28, 2011, 09:38:52 am »

I read he was going to the Indians...

13

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Re: Astros @ Terdinals 7/27

« on: July 27, 2011, 07:48:46 pm »

I'm surprised we're not hearing more about Barmes on the trade front...great in the field and he's been swinging the bat really well as of late.

14

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2011 Draftees and Status

« on: July 25, 2011, 01:27:36 pm »

Via MLBTradeRumors:

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/07/george-springer-may-sign-with-long-island-ducks.html#disqus_thread

The link in question:

http://twitter.com/#!/zoodig/status/95392104322314240

Not a good sign if true.

15

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2012 draft

« on: July 21, 2011, 01:10:39 pm »

I've read a lot of good things about OF Nick Williams, any thoughts?

16

Talk Zone / Re: Astros violated by Rangers AGAIN

« on: June 22, 2011, 01:33:51 am »

I was born in Houston, but have lived on the East Coast for most of my life. The Astros (and Houston teams in general) are the one way I really feel connected with my hometown, as my work schedule doesn't allow me to get out to Texas very often. I'll root for the Astros as long as they're in Houston, no matter what league they're in or how lousy they are. For better or worse, they're my team and I won't abandon them.

17

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Re: The Shit Caterpillars vs the Shit Moths 06-15-2011

« on: June 15, 2011, 08:35:51 pm »

Hunter Fucking Pence, ladies and gentlemen: takes ball four, swings through ball five.

18

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Re: Reds v. Astros, may 9th

« on: May 09, 2011, 09:36:35 pm »

So. You're New Owner Mr. Crane, and your first priority is getting people back to MMPUS. What do you do?

Don't think there's much he can do until after the season. Unless this team surges back into the race (and that doesn't look very likely at this point in time) there's no sense in going after a big-name trade target. Hold course until after the WS, then go hard in FA since compensation is probably going to be a thing of the past after the new CBA.

19

Talk Zone / Re: Jim Crane trying to buy Astros again

« on: May 09, 2011, 09:29:45 pm »

I'm just hoping that the deal being done at this point in the season doesn't affect the draft in a negative way. The last few have been good, but a bad one now could set the system back in a big way.

20

Beer and Queso / Re: Portal 2

« on: May 03, 2011, 02:57:35 pm »

F:NV only has one DLC out at the moment (dead Money), and while it's not bad, it's not anything mind-blowing. The next one (Honest Hearts) comes out 5/17 and looks a hell of a lot more interesting.

21

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Oklahoma City - 2011

« on: April 24, 2011, 12:11:59 pm »

It's great to see him have a strong game--sometimes that first one is all a guy needs to get over the hump.

22

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Seaton headed to Corpus?

« on: March 16, 2011, 03:52:36 pm »

It doesn't make a lot of sense to keep him in A+. Granted, he didn't put up the greatest numbers, but he was pitching half of his games in a park that plays like Coors Field on the moon. Time to see what he can do at the next level.

23

Talk Zone / Re: Gammons: Bagwell deserves Hall of Fame call

« on: December 29, 2010, 04:45:46 pm »

Crasnik talks with Bagwell about steroids: LINK

Warning: if you value your sanity, stay far, far away from the comments. 

24

Beer and Queso / Re: Urban Meyer stepping down, again

« on: December 09, 2010, 04:49:25 pm »

Meyer has retired twice now, and JoePa's STILL coaching. I love it.

25

Talk Zone / Re: Hope Springs Eternal...

« on: November 23, 2010, 01:03:28 am »

I've always liked D-Train, and I hope he can find some success.

26

Beer and Queso / Re: Baylor... Powerhouse

« on: October 31, 2010, 04:06:27 pm »

The worst.

Next time you get a chance, check out a PSU game. I promise you you'll feel much better about UT's o-line.

27

Beer and Queso / Re: Football this weekend (Sept 25-26)

« on: September 25, 2010, 05:53:21 pm »

I thought the PSU-Temple game was ugly. Yikes.

28

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: Astros at Gnats - 9/20

« on: September 20, 2010, 07:44:25 pm »

Living in PA, I'm getting this game on MASN, and I have to say that Ray Lopez (nee Knight) might be the most annoying goddamn color-man in broadcasting.

29

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: Astros at Gnats - 9/20

« on: September 20, 2010, 07:23:02 pm »

I just got home from work in time to turn on TV for the 5th...that kinda baseball makes a long day a little bit better.

30

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2010

« on: September 16, 2010, 02:08:28 am »

What are the chances they sign an agreement with San Antonio (assuming their PDC with the Padres is expiring, which I think it is) and try to turn either San Antonio or CC into a AAA affiliate? Can they even do such a thing?   

31

Talk Zone / Re: Rookie Shenanigans

« on: September 07, 2010, 02:47:33 am »

Alyson's Footnotes: Was that Miss Piggy and Super Mario walking the streets of Chicago? Nah. Those were your Houston Astros.

Ambiguously Gay Duo: Chris Johnson (A) and Jason Castro (G)

Those two seem to REALLY enjoy their new outfits...NTTAWT.

32

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: Daytime broom special: Astros @ Phillies 8/26/10

« on: August 26, 2010, 02:13:13 pm »

Manuel, of course, came out to bitch. Was there a game this series that he didn't do that?

33

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: Daytime broom special: Astros @ Phillies 8/26/10

« on: August 26, 2010, 12:57:55 pm »

Are they still whining about the umpires?

No, just whining about Wandy being successful while pitching behind in the count.

34

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: Daytime broom special: Astros @ Phillies 8/26/10

« on: August 26, 2010, 12:50:52 pm »

Christ Almighty the Phils' broadcasters are a whiny bunch

35

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2010

« on: August 06, 2010, 09:29:36 am »

Here is some information on the substance:

Looks like they were trying to find something they could get away with and "Oops, they made a test for it."  I'm not advocating drug use of any kind, but I wonder if this kind of suspension is as damaging as a steroid suspension.  If a player were to be suspended, would clubs rather they be suspended for this over a steroid like Stanzolol?

http://www.rmtcnet.com/content_headlines.asp?id=&s=&article=208

I'd be more inclined to believe it was present in a OTC supplement and they didn't realize it was illegal. If they were really looking for a stimulant, why wouldn't they just do what the rest of America does and get a prescription for Adderall, which IIRC is not banned by MLB.

36

Talk Zone / Re: Rangers not yet to Ryan

« on: August 05, 2010, 12:47:00 am »

So do Cuban and Crane set their sights on Houston? Would Cuban be interested? Would Drayton deal with Crane after the previous deal fell through?

37

Talk Zone / Re: Roy O to Phillies

« on: July 29, 2010, 10:38:19 am »

For $12MM, the 'Stros ought to be able to pillage the Phils' farm system like a marauding viking.

38

Talk Zone / Re: Stark: Oswalt to Phillies?

« on: July 28, 2010, 07:43:48 pm »

Rangers make offer for Roy

http://www.myfoxhouston.com/dpp/sports/mlb/100728-cards-back-away-from-oswalt-trade-talks

39

Talk Zone / Re: last night the dufas who cauth the inplay ball

« on: July 24, 2010, 12:12:34 pm »

can an image be SFN?

40

Talk Zone / Re: Stark: Oswalt to Phillies?

« on: July 21, 2010, 04:31:56 pm »

Maybe an MLBPA issue as well.  Giving up a no-trade without any monetary return I'm sure rubs MLBPA the wrong way. No idea if Oswalt is a firm union guy.

From where I stand, the NTC isn't worth $16m.  In the end, it probably means Drayton has to eat more money to make that figure acceptable to the Phillies.

if that's the case, fuck him. in fact, a player's ntc should be voided if he asks to be traded.

41

Talk Zone / Re: Astros make some minor moves

« on: July 21, 2010, 12:25:17 pm »

Hernandez is an interesting case. Between Sanchez, Navarro, and Manzella the Astros seem pretty well stocked on light-hitting middle infielders for now. Perhaps a Keppinger trade is in the works?

My thoughts exactly.The question is, is it a separate deal or part of an Oswalt trade?

42

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: GCL Astros 2010

« on: July 20, 2010, 01:45:11 am »

18 South Korean SS prospect Chan Moon has done decently in limited action in the GCL.  stats link

5 G, 7 AB, 3 R, 3 H, 5 BB, 3 SO, 1 SB.

I'd like to him get some more ABs...he seems to have a idea of what he's doing at the plate.

43

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2010

« on: July 20, 2010, 01:43:47 am »

Keuchel a Hook?  That's what I think I'm reading anyway...  [Keuchel via Twitter: LINK]

Sad to say bye to my boys in Lancaster [Mike Modica David Berner and David Duncan], but ready to get started as a HOOK!

Farmstros also noting that Sergio Leon has been promoted from Lexington to Corpus as well.  LINK

read the rest of his tweets...they're interesting to say the least

44

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: 7-17-10 Astros@ Shitsburgh

« on: July 17, 2010, 08:31:23 pm »

goddammit Pence...line to drive to right that went right under his glove

45

Talk Zone / Re: Roy Oswalt talking like a man that is willing to get traded this season

« on: July 07, 2010, 11:17:13 am »

Didn't McLane himself say just a few weeks ago that the team would be willing to pick up salary if it meant better prospects? Maybe Price is going off old/bad info?

46

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2010 July 2nd Int'l Free Agent signing period

« on: July 01, 2010, 06:32:59 pm »

Thanks for the update. Sanchez really intrigues me...I've read that he has a LOT of power potential.

47

Beer and Queso / Re: Conference Realignment

« on: June 11, 2010, 03:04:33 pm »

UT?

Whoops...I was trying to quote this from Bench:

"It's a set-up.  A&M going to the SEC is the key to UT going to the Big 10.  If A&M splits, UT can blame them for breaking up the Texas block, dump Tech, and go to the Big 10 where there's the most money both from TV and academics.

/blatently repeating something I heard on talk radio."

48

Beer and Queso / Re: Conference Realignment

« on: June 11, 2010, 02:58:14 pm »

This is basically Jim Delaney's dream scenario. If he gets Nebraska AND UT, Notre Dame pretty much has to join the Big Integer, and that's who Delaney really wants.

49

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2010

« on: June 08, 2010, 01:31:16 am »

I'd like to see what he can do at AA...hopefully around the time the short-season leagues start up we'll see some of the more deserving players (Keuchel, Martinez, Meszaros, etc.) promoted.

50

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Draft 2010

« on: June 07, 2010, 05:06:18 pm »

This is exactly how I feel. From everything I've read, Sale SEEMS like the better pick at #8. We have a lot of toolsy fast guys a ala DeShields already in the system, and lack of plus-plus power guys like Sale...so I'd rather see us take Sale.

That said, Heck has done well enough that I think he's earned the benefit of the doubt...if he thinks DeShields is the better man, then DeShields it is.

51

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Draft 2010

« on: June 04, 2010, 01:24:54 am »

Scuttlebutt over at TCB is that in an interview with Matt Thomas, Wade said the draft budget will between $8.5 and $10MM...anyone over here hear that? IIRC, that's way more than previous years, assuming it's accurate. Makes me think they might actually take a run at some like Wilson...though my gut feeling is that a lot of that money will be used to take HS guys over slot in later rounds.

52

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Draft 2010

« on: June 02, 2010, 03:16:06 pm »

Especially since no one thinks Cabrera will stick at SS in pro ball.

53

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: Astros vs. Natinals, 6/1/10

« on: June 01, 2010, 10:26:50 pm »

LANCE!

54

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rojo Johnson?

« on: May 06, 2010, 12:43:59 am »

Pretty sure this has something to do with it...

http://www.examiner.com/x-37614-Austin-Market-Examiner~y2010m4d14-Will-Ferrell-to-appear-at-Round-Rock-Express-game

Yeah, the more I think about this, the more I'm convinced it's a gag.

55

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: 4/14/10 Astros vs Cards - Opening Day!

« on: April 14, 2010, 09:33:12 pm »

i believe the word i'm looking for is "shitfuck"

56

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Re: 4/6/2010: Everybody Plays!

« on: April 06, 2010, 08:38:32 pm »

Jebus. I get home from work, turn on Gameday, and the Giants immediately score three runs. A long day gets a little bit longer.

57

Talk Zone / Re: Today's Sporcle Stumper

« on: March 28, 2010, 03:29:33 am »

I got 71, and it would have been 73, but I spelled "Vazquez" with and "s" and for some reason thought it was "Josh Danks" and not "John Danks."

58

Talk Zone / Re: Bumgarner report

« on: March 16, 2010, 02:45:22 am »

That's a shame. Velocity isn't everything, but it's obvious there's a problem, and he was a kid with a lot of promise. Hopefully the Giants can figure out what's wrong and get him back on track.

59

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Jacob Priday

« on: March 10, 2010, 01:10:42 pm »

According to BA (http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/?p=7707#more-7707), '09 draft-pick Jacob Priday has been reinstated after spending all of last year on the restricted list.

This is very interesting--has anyone ever heard what he did to wind up on the restricted list in the first place? I remember seeing it last year, but AFAIK, no reason was ever given.

60

Beer and Queso / Re: Why the Mid-Atlantic Sucks

« on: February 10, 2010, 02:26:23 pm »

Another two feet on top of the two from last time. Anyone in Texas wanna give me a job?

61

Beer and Queso / Re: Why the Mid-Atlantic Sucks

« on: February 05, 2010, 09:35:17 pm »

It started here at 3, and it's still going strong. Just finished the first round of shoveling and there was probably about 8 inches of snow on the ground. It's supposed to get worse overnight and then taper off in the afternoon, so I've probably got at least two more rounds ahead of me. On the plus side, I no longer feel too bad about skipping my workout earlier today.

62

Talk Zone / Re: Sheets to A's

« on: January 26, 2010, 02:56:20 pm »

That's a lot of money for a guy that didn't throw a single pitch last year.

63

Beer and Queso / Re: Well, it's better than "Super Bowl Shuffle"...

« on: January 24, 2010, 02:35:42 pm »

I'm rooting for the Jets, if only to get another installment of the KSK version of Rex Ryan.  I would charge down the very throat of hell for that flabby nicknamin' sumbitch.

Agreed. Well, that and the fact that I'd rather box Superman than root for the Colts.

64

Talk Zone / Re: McGwire admits to using 'roids

« on: January 12, 2010, 01:48:35 am »

I have a question to those of you that think that any admitted steroid user should be barred from the HoF: what about creatine? Is it not also a PED? I'm not trying to be snarky, I'm serious--is it only wrong to use PEDs that are banned by MLB? Because creatine, while not as potent as steroids, will still help you gain significant muscle mass, and as far as I know, it hasn't been banned by MLB.

65

Talk Zone / Re: Astros sign Brett Myers

« on: January 09, 2010, 02:00:04 pm »

Moral issues aside, my biggest problem with the signing? I'm guessing Sheets and Bedard wind up signing  contracts only slightly higher than Myers', and they're both much, much better pitchers.

66

Talk Zone / Re: Orlando Cabrera?

« on: January 04, 2010, 08:27:26 pm »

He's probably the best option within their price range if they're not really committed to giving Manzella a shot. I'd say give Manzella a shot and hope his defense justifies his hitting, and save the few million O-Cab would cost for the two extra draft picks we'll get when Valverde finally signs.

67

Beer and Queso / Re: Pirate Walks The Plank

« on: December 30, 2009, 01:00:14 pm »

If you're feeling particularly brave/masochistic, check out Pinwheel's blogs about the situation. He blends preachiness and conjecture in ways that would make JdJO blush.

68

Talk Zone / Re: Paulino eats a salad

« on: December 23, 2009, 01:59:14 am »

The 6-foot-3 Paulino was listed at 180 pounds in the Astros' 2009 media guide and was listed at a more accurate 271 pounds in the postseason wrap-up guide.

I knew not to trust media guides, but a 91 pound difference between listed weight and actual weight?  Ridiculous.

Yeah. Translating for "media guide height," I'm guessing Bagwell was actually 5'9", and Biggio was one midget standing on another's shoulders.

69

Beer and Queso / Why the Mid-Atlantic Sucks

« on: December 19, 2009, 02:14:55 am »

We're due for 8-12 inches of snow overnight. Snow stopped being fun once I had a huge-ass driveway to shovel. I think my New Year's resolution is gonna be to find a job in Houston or Corpus Christi.

70

Talk Zone / Re: Rangers to Gilbert?

« on: December 15, 2009, 04:05:05 pm »

I also remember reading about Crane's attempted purchase a month or so ago when his name first came up, but there wasn't, afaik, a year attached.

71

Talk Zone / Re: Rangers to Gilbert?

« on: December 15, 2009, 03:37:23 pm »

The fact that we're just now hearing about this is pretty amazing. I know it's the Chronicle, but you'd think SOMEONE on that staff would have heard something about it and jumped all over it. I almost have to believe the 'Stros asked them not to write about it, and they--for whatever reason--agreed. That, or the Astros are better at keeping things close to the vest than almost every other organization/business/governing body I've ever encountered.

Assuming, of course, that this is true. Until we get more details, it's hard to say.

72

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Astros sign Dominican LHP Edgar Ferreira

« on: December 12, 2009, 07:13:15 pm »

BA scouting report on Ferreira:

Ferreira started to gain more notice as July 2 approached by showing remarkable arm strength for a 16-year-old lefty with a fastball that sits at 90-91 mph and has touched 93-94 mph. Ferreira has a projectable body and does it pretty easily with a loose arm, which means he could be throwing in the mid-90s in time. Aside from Ferreira's arm strength, scouts say he's not particularly athletic and the rest of his game is extremely raw. His changeup is a decent pitch, but his breaking ball is in its nascent stages (some scouts think he'll eventually throw a slider) and his control is below-average. The Braves have drafted and signed plenty of lefthanders in recent years and are believed to have interest in Ferreira, while some think the Yankees might also make a push.

73

Talk Zone / Non-tenders

« on: December 12, 2009, 02:14:28 pm »

MLBTradeRumors.com has the up-to-date list--so far, Chien-Ming Wang, Kelly Johnson, Ryan Church, Garrett Atkins, and Seth McClung have been let go. I wouldn't mind seeing Wang or Church in the mud n' blood...thoughts?

74

Talk Zone / Re: New closer for the Good Guys.

« on: December 10, 2009, 12:23:53 am »

It is completely baffling to give Lyon 3/15 when we could have presumably had Hawkins at 2/7.5. Was Hawkins' age that much of an issue?

75

Talk Zone / Re: Let the Hot Stove season begin

« on: December 09, 2009, 02:11:05 pm »

The first comment is rather funny.

If by 'funny' you mean 'nauseating,' then yes, yes it is.

76

Talk Zone / Re: Let the Hot Stove season begin

« on: December 09, 2009, 12:58:25 pm »

I wonder if Sheets would take (and the Astros would be willing to offer) an incentive-laden one-year deal that would pay around $12MM at 200 IP. I know that probably pushes the payroll higher than Drayton would like, but at the same time, if Sheets gave us 200 IP, we'd probably be doing well enough that he most likely wouldn't mind the extra cost.

77

Beer and Queso / Re: f'ing texans

« on: December 06, 2009, 03:06:24 pm »

Ho-ly shit that was one hell of a TD drive.

78

Talk Zone / Re: arb for Valverde only

« on: December 01, 2009, 07:52:33 pm »

In a perfect world, me too. But with the payroll constraints, if they would have offered both Valverde and Hawkins, and they both accepted, there goes any and all payroll flexibility.

79

Talk Zone / Re: Craving some hot stove action...

« on: December 01, 2009, 02:53:21 pm »

Footer tweets that they offered arb to Valverde, but not to Hawkins, Tejada or Brocail.

80

Beer and Queso / Re: OU and ND both suck

« on: December 01, 2009, 02:50:13 pm »

I agree with that.

Didn't ND have a "top 5 recruiting class" (for whatever that's worth) the last few years under Charlie?

I've heard--and I have no idea if this is true--that ND always tends to have "top classes" because their recruits tend to gain points/stars/etc. once they commit--the idea being that if ND wants them, they must be top recruits. Like I said, I have no idea if this is true, but given the way ranking websites work, it wouldn't surprise me.

81

Beer and Queso / Re: OU and ND both suck

« on: December 01, 2009, 12:56:04 pm »

Right, there is a difference between a good school and one that has high academic standards for athletes.  UNC, UVA, Texas, Michigan, etc, etc are all good schools, and it's pretty clear that being an amazing athlete is on par with being a talented mathematician or pianist with regards to admission standards, which I personally don't have a problem with.

Allow me to clarify. I agree with about admissions--all schools have lower academic standards for athletes when it comes to admission. I was saying that Penn State that has higher standards than most for a student-athlete's academic performance once he's on the team--Paterno has no problem suspending a player if he's failing/cutting classes--and that doesn't seem to stop them from getting highly-regarded recruits. Which goes back to my original point that ND can't blame their recruiting philosophy for their lack of success.  

82

Beer and Queso / Re: OU and ND both suck

« on: December 01, 2009, 01:29:40 am »

Hey, whatdayawant?   You wanna win games?   You recruit barely literate athletic superheroes that otherwise wouldn't have even graduated high school without a lot of help.   You wanna run a school that has some respect as a university first?   You have "standards."

I really, really, really wish I could tell you that I have a lot more respect for ND for doing that (I do, actually), but I think I also liked winning a title in '05.

At the same time, having high academic standards and being set in a climate one could only describe as 'manic' doesn't stopped Penn State from doing well. Granted, no NC's recently, but outside of a a brief hiccup during the early part of the decade, it's been a consistently great, if perhaps not elite, program. So having high academic standards and shitty weather shouldn't be an excuse.

That being said, fuck ND in the ear.

83

Beer and Queso / Re: f'ing texans

« on: November 22, 2009, 02:10:44 am »

Living in PA, this will be the first game I get to see all season, and I'm fucking pumped. I'm going straight from work to my favorite sports bar, getting a big plate of food and a cold pitcher of beer, and watching my beloved Texans wreck shop.   

84

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BA Top 10

« on: November 20, 2009, 10:42:34 am »

The projected lineup is just to show depth. The BA guys themselves say not to read into to it too much, because they don't do things like predict retirements or FA signings.

85

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BA Top 10

« on: November 20, 2009, 10:13:35 am »

If anyone has any specific questions for the chat, throw 'em up on here and I'll see if I can get you an answer.

86

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Lou Santangelo released

« on: November 11, 2009, 03:56:56 pm »

According to Baseball America:

http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/?p=6904#more-6904

87

Talk Zone / Re: Paging Mr. Matsui, Mr. Kazuo Matsui

« on: October 19, 2009, 12:46:40 pm »

Yes they did, but from what I've read, a lot of people don't think Clement will stick at catcher.

88

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BA Top 20s by league

« on: October 13, 2009, 02:19:49 pm »

I asked about Lo in the chat, and it wasn't answered. One interesting nugget though, after someone asked about former farmhand Jordan Parraz:

Sorry, not a lot of love for Parraz in the TL. If you're looking for an older guy who got love from managers, Drew Locke is probably the choice. Scouts don't see a big league role for him, though. I think I got a Collin Delome question somewhere too. He's an extra outfielder at best, nothing plus.

89

Talk Zone / Re: The Playoff Prediction Game

« on: October 07, 2009, 02:40:45 pm »

NL
PHI over COL
LAD over STL
LAD over PHI

AL
NYY over MIN
LAA over BOS
NYY over LAA

WS
LAD over NYY

90

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Al Pedrique comments

« on: October 06, 2009, 10:18:26 am »

I'm pretty sure it becomes partial after the 2010 season.

91

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BA Top 20s by league

« on: October 05, 2009, 01:31:55 pm »

I put in a question about them for the chat, we'll see if it gets answered.

ETA: Here's what BA's Dave Perkin had to say about Gaston and Clemens:

Jon Gaston was on all of my intitial lists, but missed the cut at the end by a whisper. I don't care if you play in a little league park, the numbers he and Clemens put up can't be ignored. Gaston had power at home then on the road--18 at Lancaster, 17 on the road, but hit .308 at home, .248 away from home. Clemens hit everywhere--14 and .352 at home, 8 and .338 on the road. The knock on Gaston is K's, on Clemens is the lack of a clear defensive position. But no doubt--they can both rake.

92

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BA Top 20s by league

« on: October 02, 2009, 03:17:04 pm »

BA's Matt Forman on Seaton:

On my original Sally list, I ranked Seaton somewhere in or around the 15th spot. After seeing him pitch in Greensboro and talking to several scouts, I was very underwhelmed with what I saw. His velocity was lower than the reported 92-94 when I saw him. He didn't overpower hitters, just pitched to contact and left the ball over the plate. One manager went as far to say this: "I'm shocked that his name keeps coming up. It's one of those things where you don't say anything if you can't say anything nice about him. He plays with 20-foot high grass and gets a lot of ground balls." Though I wouldn't go that far, I'm on the same wavelength. He's more of a control, sinker-slider guy who commands the zone and throws strikes. If you're looking for something positive to take away about Seaton, I did get two Orel Hershiser comps on him, for what they're worth. Seaton's got the chance to throw a lot of innings and be an innings eater in the rotation.

93

Talk Zone / Re: Astros for sale?

« on: October 01, 2009, 04:37:27 pm »

It's amazing what passes in sports journalism. I wish my editors didn't care about things like details and sources.

94

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BA Top 20s by league

« on: September 29, 2009, 05:07:33 pm »

The NY-P league was up today. No ValleyCats in the top 20, but here's what Aaron Fitt had to say about Keuchel and Martinez.

On Keuchel's future:

Keuchel is similar to Cohoon — both are lefties without overpowering stuff who rely on their moxie. Keuchel worked in the 84-88 range this summer but moved his fastball in and out, up and down. It does play up because of its life, and he's got a great changeup, but his breaking ball is fringy. I love his competitiveness, however, and I think he could find a home in the bullpen because of his aggressive mentality if he doesn't stick as a starter.

On why Martinez missed the top 20:

Martinez can really hit — he has a good short stroke, plenty of bat speed and an aggressive approach. But he was a 22-year-old DH/left fielder (and not a good left fielder) in the NY-P. He just doesn't profile very well, so he's going to have to hit like crazy at every level. Of course, I left Adam Lind off this list for similar reasons five years ago, and he's hit his way to the big leagues and become a valuable player for the Blue Jays. But I don't think Martinez has the kind of impact bat that Lind has.

Also, I noticed we missed the GCL top 20 from a week ago. Tanner Bushue came in at #9, and Enrique Hernandez came up in the chat:

Hernandez did get some consideration. There are lot of questions in the queue about why a certain player didn't make it. Mostly, it comes down to there are 16 teams in the league and only 20 spots. A lot of talented players were left off the list. Hernandez is one of them. Overall he's raw but he's a high-energy guy. He projects as an offensive middle infielder. He can handle short but lacks the range to play there every day. He has an above average arm and would be a good defender at second base. He's more of a doubles guy than home run power but can make good, hard contact.

95

Talk Zone / Re: Lemme get this straight

« on: September 14, 2009, 12:50:51 pm »

I once jokingly e-mailed Jon Heyman and very politely asked him to stop writing about the Astros, since his disdain for the team was so obvious. I argued it would make him happy, since he could quit writing about a team he didn't like, and Astros fans happy, since we wouldn't have to read his snarky opinions about our beloved team. He agreed.

I really wish he would have been serious.  

96

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Jio Mier > Tim Beckham?

« on: September 12, 2009, 03:22:41 am »

I always thought Beckham was a weird pick for he Rays. Middle infield wasn't a huge need for them, but catcher was. And they passed on Posey, who was pretty much a slam dunk in terms of a guy who could stay at catcher and hit well.

Back to the topic, I was big on Jio before they took him, and so far, so good.

97

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Labor Day Special, PHI at HOU

« on: September 08, 2009, 02:35:20 am »

It's amazing that Chan Ho Park can still find employers in the big leagues.

I live in the Philly market, so I obviously see a lot of Phillies games. And to be fair, I've seen Park looking sharp more often than not. I think we just caught him on an off-day. The other day I saw him and he was lights out--his fastball had a ton of movement and good velocity, and he was hitting his spots.

98

Talk Zone / Re: Valverde to test FA market

« on: September 08, 2009, 02:25:18 am »

Especially since so many teams have shown that the difference between a serviceable closer and a good middle reliever is the right mindset.

99

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BA on Clark and Alaniz

« on: September 05, 2009, 02:54:32 am »

There's no new info...basically the same stuff in Tag's/Levine's articles.

100

Beer and Queso / Re: Disney to Acquire Marvel Comics

« on: September 01, 2009, 03:14:35 pm »

I honestly think this is more about Disney acquiring film/television rights than anything else--I really doubt that Disney cares about censoring the comic book content. They want to be able to have Spidey show up with Mickey on TV, not stop the Punisher from offing bad guys.

101

Talk Zone / Re: A Birdie Told Me

« on: August 27, 2009, 03:54:34 pm »

More awesome tweetery:

There is a Maysonet sighting on the on-deck circle. And here I thought it was against the rules to let him play.
-Fuckhouse

Here's another good one:

Berkman story on Astros.com. He called a team meeting. Coop doesn't think the team is playing without any fire. *snicker*

102

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lex pitchers to skip Lancaster?

« on: August 20, 2009, 09:25:56 am »

If so, is this because they are ready for AA, or the organization doesn't want them exposed to Lancaster. 

My uninformed speculation: it depends how many guys make the jump. If the whole Lexington rotation is in AA next year, it's more likely that the org doesn't want them to have to deal with the Lancaster environment. If it's just a few of them, then I'd guess the org would think that those guys could handle the jump.

Either way, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Astros try to move out of the Cali league this offseason if possible.

103

Talk Zone / Re: Pudge traded to the Rangers

« on: August 19, 2009, 01:24:39 am »

Then I guess I'm rooting for the Rangers...if they're gonna give up Pudge, they might as well get as much as they can for him.

104

Talk Zone / Re: Pudge traded to the Rangers

« on: August 18, 2009, 12:44:28 pm »

Lidge (assuming Bourn was not proven)? Dotel? Wagner?

How did I forget about the Lidge deal? I knew there had to be something between this and the Dotel deal...

105

Talk Zone / Re: Pudge traded to the Rangers

« on: August 18, 2009, 12:40:17 pm »

When's the last time the Astros have traded an established player away for prospects?

106

Talk Zone / Re: Sampson to RR

« on: August 14, 2009, 04:08:31 am »

I also surprised Sampson didn't hit the DL. I'm not most informed guy when it comes to the subject, but it seems more likely his struggles are physical and not mechanical, and he seems to agree.

On a related note, and not trying to hijack the thread, but is there any reason besides money that Coop is still coaching? His bullpen mismanagement alone seems like legitimate grounds for dismissal.   

107

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Einertson suspended

« on: August 08, 2009, 02:44:37 am »

Well, Ray Sadler started tonight for the Hooks in CF.  Seeing as how he doesn't have any minor league stats for the year, I can only assume he was just signed to take Einertson's spot.

ETA - Found a link.  http://www.cchooks.com/news/default/4/5211/

To me, this makes no sense. I know it's late in the season, but doesn't it make more sense to promote a deserving outfielder from Lancaster (be it Gaston or Shuck) than to sign a guy with no future in the organization?

108

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Einertson suspended

« on: August 07, 2009, 07:55:38 pm »

I wonder if this leads the way to a Gaston call-up...

109

Beer and Queso / Re: Friday Beer Thread

« on: August 03, 2009, 03:34:03 pm »

Texas has about the dumbest alcohol laws.  But probably not, didn't South Carolina have laws that meant bars could only serve spirits in airline size bottles?

Come to Pennsylvania. If you want to buy a case of beer, a six-pack, and a bottle of liquor, you have to go to three different places. Archaic and very inconvenient.

110

Talk Zone / Re: Let the trading begin!

« on: July 31, 2009, 01:44:04 pm »

Right now, they're saying Buccholz isn't in the deal Martinez. That said, a few months of Tejada is nowhere near enough to pry Buccholz away from the Sawks.

111

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Fuck the Cubs v. Fuck Coop-- a shirtless grudgematch 7/30/09

« on: July 30, 2009, 02:33:35 pm »

It certainly wouldn't hurt to see what Tejada/Valverde/Pudge/etc. would bring back. And I'd say it's time to see what Bazardo can do.

112

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster Jethawks 2009

« on: July 30, 2009, 02:17:03 pm »

Well, let's take a look at the Sox current top prospect, power-hitting 1B Lars Anderson. In 2007, Anderson hit 1 HR in 47 PA. In 2008, he hit 13 HR in 358 PA. In contrast, Gaston has hit 29 HR in 455 PA. Now, that doesn't mean someone in the Sox org hasn't hit more, but it's an interesting comp nonetheless.

113

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Begging for disappointment -- Astros v. FTC 7/29/09

« on: July 29, 2009, 03:23:06 pm »

Oh for fuck's sake, Jeff Baker just got a double because the ball got lost in the ivy.

114

Talk Zone / Re: Norris getting the call-up

« on: July 29, 2009, 01:27:02 am »

I wonder what approach the team will take by friday afternoon with all the recent injuries.    Do they become more aggressive in talks to get pitching help for this season, or do they decide that it's better to not deal any prospects with so many key players sidelined due to injury.

A third option: if Oswalt's injury proves serious, do they consider going into "sell" mode? There's a lot of teams out there looking for infield and bullpen help, and I'm betting Tejada and Valverde could bring back big returns.

115

Talk Zone / Re: Matt Holliday a Card?

« on: July 24, 2009, 12:35:02 pm »

Ah. I didn't realize he'd been struggling so much.

116

Talk Zone / Re: Matt Holliday a Card?

« on: July 24, 2009, 12:30:42 pm »

I read somewhere that Scott Kazmir might be available, hopefully Wade's checking in on that.

117

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Gwendolyn Evette Leach's Birthday!! Cardinals @ Astros 7/22/09

« on: July 22, 2009, 09:43:04 pm »

Comcast has a free preview of MLB Extra Innings going on, so I actually got watch this.

And I gotta say, their timing couldn't have been better. Great game, great series.

118

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster Jethawks 2009

« on: July 22, 2009, 01:40:41 am »

It'd be nice to see him promoted to AA, with Locke going up to AAA...at this point, neither of them seem to have much left to prove in their current league.

119

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Eli Iorg

« on: July 18, 2009, 01:30:20 am »

The Purpura era looking a little bit worse every day...

120

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster Jethawks 2009

« on: July 17, 2009, 10:28:16 am »

I hope he's not an injury-prone type. He can play.

I think it's too early to label him injury-prone--hamstrings are tricky and take a very long time to heal, especially if you're trying to play baseball every night.

121

Talk Zone / Re: Paulino optioned to Round Rock

« on: July 13, 2009, 08:27:23 pm »

Believe it or not, you'll evidently have to go to BP to hear that drivel these days.  Baseball America seems to be having a bit of a change of heart on the subject...

Question: In your estimation, do the Astros still have the worst farm system in the game, or has the performance/emergence of some of their prospects (Castro, Lyles, Norris, etc.) bumped them up a few spots?

Answer (J.J. Cooper): "If we were ranking again right now, the Astros would not rank last. Castro, Lyles, Norris, heck throw in Jon Gaston, have all had very impressive seasons. They aren't top 5 or anything, but it's a better system than it appeared at the start of the season."

I usually ask about 2 questions per Hot Sheet chat and this was the first one of mine they've answered in about two months.

122

Talk Zone / Re: JackAstro

« on: July 09, 2009, 12:53:55 pm »

I just found my new desktop background.

123

Talk Zone / Re: Roy on the trading block

« on: July 08, 2009, 12:37:48 pm »

He didn't say anything about not expecting moves to shed payroll and add prospects, however.

Would they actually do that if the team is still right around .500 at the deadline?

124

Talk Zone / Re: Roy on the trading block

« on: July 08, 2009, 11:01:44 am »

His contract is up at the end of next yr.  At the end of that he would be 34 and request a 4 yr commitment at I am guessing at around 100mm.  Or worse he would leave (See Jackel, Randy Johnson, etc.). I say forget that.  If you are trading Valverde and Migi, get prospects to go with your young-uns. 

Oh, I agree 100%. I don't think the defense and pitching on this year's team is strong enough to take us to the postseason, and since there are so few sellers out there, this would be the perfect year to shop guys like Miggy, Valverde, Hawkins, etc. But I'm guessing Drayton doesn't see it that way.

125

Talk Zone / Re: Roy on the trading block

« on: July 07, 2009, 05:10:31 pm »

I read that as asking whether Tejada & Valverde would fetch enough prospect-wise to then flip to Toronto for Halladay. Which I would guess not, but then again, what do I know?

126

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Greeneville Astros 2009

« on: July 04, 2009, 01:13:36 am »

Since I've never seen him in action, I have to ask: is Altuve really only 5'5"?

127

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: July 2nd International signing period

« on: July 01, 2009, 01:29:59 pm »

At BA today, they've got a team-by-team summary of expected July 2nd action. It says the Astros are pretty much bargain shopping this year, but mentioned Dominican shortstop Jonathan Mejia as a player they're possibly targeting. Mejia apparently has a good bat but may need to move to a corner OF spot in the future. There's a chat starting right about now, I'll see if I can find out anything else.

ETA: I asked about Mejia and pretty much got the same reply: good bat, unlikely to stay at short.

128

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Dallas Keuchel

« on: June 26, 2009, 10:53:47 am »

http://www.examiner.com/x-2910-Houston-Astros-Examiner~y2009m6d25-QA-with-Astros-seventhround-pick-Dallas-Keuchel

An interview with Dallas Keuchel. Keuchel says he's 50-50 on signing, the Astros told him they're gonna offer soon, and that the offer is over slot.

129

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: July 2nd International signing period

« on: June 26, 2009, 03:34:13 am »

That article is from last year. I've been reading a bunch of July 2nd stuff at BA and I haven't seen the Astros linked to any of the big names.

130

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Royals @ Astros - 6/25/09

« on: June 25, 2009, 03:40:58 pm »

I know. It was a joke, albeit a poor one.

131

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Royals @ Astros - 6/25/09

« on: June 25, 2009, 02:47:19 pm »

This team is a fucking joke.

But Drayton says they're champions!

132

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Greeneville Astros 2009

« on: June 25, 2009, 02:44:15 am »

http://www.sgvtribune.com/sports/ci_12683268

According to this article, 1st round pick Jiovanni Mier will start out in Greeneville.

133

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 24, 2009, 01:31:51 pm »

Not true, according to Heck via Levine:

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bb/6495446.html

134

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 22, 2009, 11:59:43 am »

I have a really hard time believing that, given the state of the farm system, they would have drafted him if they weren't sure they were going to be able to sign him. That said, Mier could have upped his demands, but barring that, I think/hope they'll eventually get him signed.

135

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draftees and Status

« on: June 19, 2009, 02:45:39 am »

It's great to see more signings, especially Hernandez and Castro, who was thought to be a tough sign. Hopefully Mier gets signed soon.

136

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Dallas Keuchel

« on: June 18, 2009, 03:18:48 am »

I was at a bar and by chance looked up at the flatscreen while he was pitching. A little wild but he worked his way out of a jam the one inning and struck out two the next. The one thing I really noticed is that his delivery looked very clean.

137

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster Jethawks 2009

« on: June 17, 2009, 04:18:47 am »

Has anyone heard anything regarding the reason that Chris Hicks and David Duncan have been so bad thus far? It seems like everytime they pitch they just get absolutely pounded. I know Lancaster's a hitter's park, but it can't be THAT bad, can it?

ETA: Also, has anyone heard anything new about Jacob Priday? I assume he's still on the restricted list, but does anyone know what exactly happened?

138

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock Express 2009

« on: June 16, 2009, 01:03:12 am »

Was anyone at tonight's game? Looking at the box, Norris threw quite the gem.

139

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 10, 2009, 12:15:54 pm »

Taking a quick glance at Orloff's stats, he reminds me a bit of J.B. Shuck: High BA, Good OBP, more walks than k's, not much pop.

140

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 10, 2009, 01:27:01 am »

The only thing that gives me pause about this pick is that nobody's ripped it yet. I don't know if I'm comfortable with a selection the "experts" are okay with. At the very least, it's uncharted territory.

Ask and ye shall receive (via rotoworld.com): "Mier is questionable to last at shortstop, and he probably won't possess the bat to be a major asset anywhere else. He's probably not more than a future 12-homer guy at best, and plate discipline is an issue. He shouldn't have gone in the first round."

Now, I don't like to bust out the "biased against the Astros" card, but I have no other explanation for this. I have read a ton of draft stuff and I have not seen single piece that suggests that a) Mier won't stick at SS, and b) he was not a first-round talent. Whoever wrote this doesn't deserve a job.

141

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 09, 2009, 09:07:51 pm »

Scheppers is a righty.

142

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 09, 2009, 07:52:09 pm »

Lovin' the Mier pick. I would have been okay with Brothers, but Mier is the guy I've wanted them to go for since I read about him.

143

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 09, 2009, 11:24:04 am »

Right now he's projecting Jiovanni Mier (as is BA after this morning's final mock draft), but notes that the Astros would probably take James if he were available.

That mock draft has USC SS Grant Green slipping out of the first round. I'm a fan of Mier, but if Green is there at #21, that would be pretty hard to pass up, even with the underwhelming season and Boras as his adviser.

144

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Sally All Stars

« on: June 09, 2009, 01:57:49 am »

Is Rosario really 6'3" 165lbs? If so, I'd like to see what he can do once he fills out his frame--his slugging pct. is already pretty decent for a guy that lanky.

145

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 08, 2009, 01:31:22 pm »

That likely depends on how long doctors think he'll be out.  If he can throw before Aug 15 then not too far.  If he can't then he might make to #21 or beyond.

Assuming the medical report isn't catastrophic, I'd hope the Astros would take Gibson at #21 even if he wasn't ready to throw. Then again, I'd take Tanner Scheppers over any of the outfielders listed above, so what do I know?

146

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: June 05, 2009, 06:42:18 pm »

They add that the Astros will "almost certainly take a bat." Not sure where that came from. Anyone heard anything similar?

No, but I sure do hope they're wrong--there's a lot of good pitching to be had in the 1st round this year. Besides, outfield is one of the few positions where we actually have organizational depth--if they're dead set set on taking a bat first, I hope it's an infield one.

147

Talk Zone / Re: Ozwalt: Someone is following you

« on: May 30, 2009, 12:35:29 pm »

I still have a hard time believing Drayton would ever trade Oswalt unless Oswalt requested it, but maybe this is the year that happens.

148

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: ASTROS at pirates 5.29.09

« on: May 29, 2009, 09:11:42 pm »

Moehler's the first one on this staff to throw a CG this season. Think about that.

149

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lou Palmisano to minors

« on: May 18, 2009, 08:20:36 pm »

Along with Paul Estrada, apparently. It wasn't too long ago that the org was talking about him as a shutdown reliever. Just goes to show...

150

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Astros top picks for each round 96-08

« on: May 18, 2009, 11:22:29 am »

It's by year, not by round. So, the best 1st round pick from '96-'08, the best 2nd round pick from '96-'08, the best 3rd round pick from '96-'08, etc.

151

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Bunch of transactions

« on: May 16, 2009, 07:49:18 pm »

I'm curious to see how Meszaros does in CC. It isn't very often you see a guy get promoted from low-A straight to AA.

ETA: Also, Meszaros has to be one of the first guys from the 2008 draft to make it to AA. Not bad for a guy picked in the 48th round.

152

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: May 15, 2009, 01:36:45 am »

Andy Oliver is another guy I wouldn't mind seeing them take. That said, I'm hoping for Jiovanni Mier--for as much as Heck talked up the "up the middle" strategy last year, they didn't take a middle infielder until after the 10th round, and I feel like it's an area they should try to beef up.

153

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2009 Draft

« on: May 14, 2009, 06:41:03 pm »

Williams sounds very similar to Jay Austin.

154

Talk Zone / Re: Jayson Werth

« on: May 14, 2009, 01:51:37 am »

I'm more and more impressed every time I see Werth play. He's a guy I definitely wouldn't mind seeing in the Mud 'N Blood.

155

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: no GZ tonight? Friars @ Astros, 5/9/09

« on: May 10, 2009, 01:12:04 am »

Wright has allowed 9 hits in 18 AB's versus LH batters.

Another example of Cooper's ineptitude. Don't play match-up's for the sake of things, make sure your LHP is actually effective against lefty batters.

156

Talk Zone / Re: Manny Ramirez to be suspended for PADs

« on: May 07, 2009, 01:44:22 pm »

Big League Baseball doesn't want the performance of ANY bat enhanced.

That said, isn't the penalty for corking the bat only 10 games?

157

Talk Zone / Re: Manny Ramirez to be suspended for PADs

« on: May 07, 2009, 12:49:50 pm »

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ys-ramirezsuspension050709&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

"LOS ANGELES – A source close to Manny Ramirez(notes) said Thursday that the illegal substance for which the Los Angeles Dodgers slugger tested positive was not “an agent customarily used for performance enhancing.”

At least not on the baseball diamond. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the substance is supposed to boost sex drive. It is not Viagra, but a substance that treats the cause rather providing a temporary boost in sexual performance, the source said."

Between this and Joba's mom busted for slinging meth, this has been one weird-ass week for baseball.

158

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Dasians @ Natinals, Cinco de Mayo Edition

« on: May 05, 2009, 02:03:43 pm »

Well that was not what I had in mind, but I'll take it.

159

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Dasians @ Natinals, Cinco de Mayo Edition

« on: May 05, 2009, 02:02:58 pm »

C'mon Hunter, keep it going.

160

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Dasians @ Natinals, Cinco de Mayo Edition

« on: May 05, 2009, 01:58:50 pm »

God bless Carlos and his two-strike approach.

161

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Dasians @ Natinals, Cinco de Mayo Edition

« on: May 05, 2009, 01:45:36 pm »

Time to get back out there and get the lead back.

162

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Dasians @ Natinals, Cinco de Mayo Edition

« on: May 05, 2009, 01:28:49 pm »

Sampson just can't find the plate. Everything has been low and away.

163

Talk Zone / Re: The Entries are in for the FARK Contest

« on: May 01, 2009, 02:27:55 pm »

Ty's Beaker is my new desktop background--he gets my vote. They're all great, though.

164

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster Jethawks 2009

« on: April 30, 2009, 01:45:06 pm »

Those are pretty ridiculous numbers.

Agreed. I know it's early, but those kind of numbers (especially in a park like Lancaster's) warrant a promotion sooner rather than later.

165

Beer and Queso / Re: texans draft

« on: April 26, 2009, 01:54:52 pm »

They just took another TE, James Casey from Rice.

166

Beer and Queso / Re: texans draft

« on: April 25, 2009, 07:57:45 pm »

I'm really surprised they passed on Moore. They've got to take a DB next, right?

167

Beer and Queso / Re: texans draft

« on: April 25, 2009, 05:43:07 pm »

Who are you hoping for?

I think Louis Delmas (FS West Mich), William Moore (SS Missouri), and Patrick Chung (SS Oregon) and the most realistic targets. It'd be great if Darius Butler (CB UConn) fell to them, but that's not likely.

ETA: Alphonso Smith (CB Wake Forest) is another possibility.

168

Beer and Queso / Re: texans draft

« on: April 25, 2009, 05:21:13 pm »

Who would you rather they have picked?

Brown or Matthews would have been better choices, imo, but then again, I'm not an NFL GM.

Maybin, Orakpo, or Jenkins would have been nice, but you can't draft someone that's not there.

I'm guessing/hoping they go DB next round.

169

Talk Zone / Re: To every idiot Astros fan who booed Mike Cameron after the collision with Q

« on: April 25, 2009, 03:10:19 am »

I just looked it up, and I can't believe Cameron's been around since '95. Time flies, I guess...

170

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Reds @ Astros - 4/19/09

« on: April 19, 2009, 04:22:55 pm »

Spaz drew a walk with 2 out in the 9th the chance to tie it at the plate. Color me incredulous.

171

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Reds @ Astros - 4/19/09

« on: April 19, 2009, 04:20:28 pm »

Well, at least Berkman only k'd instead of GDIP'ing again. His bat can wake up any time now.

172

Game Zone 2009 Archive / Re: Reds @ Astros - 4/19/09

« on: April 19, 2009, 03:28:46 pm »

How soon 'til Smith gets canned and Maysonet gets called up? He's been awful.

173

Talk Zone / Re: PTBNL in Keppinger deal to be announced this week

« on: April 17, 2009, 03:49:13 am »

I'm torn...at some point, this team should start relying on their homegrown-talent. And I'm not unconvinced Keppinger wouldn't have been DFA'd before the season started. But as far as I can remember, Sutton has only had one great season, and that came as a 25 year old repeating AA. So I'm willing to let this play out before I make a final judgment. That said, Johnson, Manzella, and Maysonet turning into productive big-leaguers would help make this deal a lot easier to swallow. 

ETA: Also, I wonder if this deal leads to a greater focus on middle infielders in the upcoming draft. For all of Heck's talk about "drafting up the middle" they didn't take middle infielder until Jeff Hulett in the 13th round last year. And aside from Maysonet and Manzella, there doesn't seem to be anyone in the system right now that seems likely to contribute at a major-league level.

174

Talk Zone / Re: PTBNL in Keppinger deal to be announced this week

« on: April 16, 2009, 01:52:53 pm »

I could definitely live with that.

175

Talk Zone / PTBNL in Keppinger deal to be announced this week

« on: April 16, 2009, 01:39:10 pm »

According to the Cincinatti Enquirer...http://tinyurl.com/d9nbl8

Aside from the Sutton speculation, has anyone heard anything on who it might be?

176

Talk Zone / Re: Moehler to DL, Arias up

« on: April 15, 2009, 07:27:19 pm »

I assume he's going to start, then? I know he worked out of the 'pen in ST...did he get stretched out at RR?

177

Talk Zone / Re: So much for a good start?

« on: April 14, 2009, 12:26:32 pm »

How about Manny Acta? I think he's on the last year of his deal with the Nats. Granted, he doesn't have much of a track record, but you can't expect too much from him with the pitching staff he's been saddled with.

178

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock Express 2009

« on: April 10, 2009, 01:14:44 am »

How did Paulino's stuff look tonight? Lurch mentioned the 96 MPH heater, which is encouraging. And how did Towles and Bogey look at the plate? The box seems to indicate they were swinging pretty well last night.

179

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: McTaggart's minor updates

« on: April 07, 2009, 12:55:25 am »

If that's the case, then I'm guessing Hernandez starts at Lex.

180

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: McTaggart's minor updates

« on: April 06, 2009, 03:28:19 pm »

One thing to remember: Sapp's only 21. He's still got a lot of time to get his career back on track.

181

Talk Zone / Re: An Opening Day In The Life

« on: April 06, 2009, 08:46:24 am »

Fwiw, Shelley wrote Ozymandias. But yeah, this is next-level stuff. Kudos.

182

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: April 05, 2009, 08:23:23 pm »

Has anyone heard anything about Priday? Is he still on the restricted list?

183

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster Jethawks 2009

« on: April 05, 2009, 08:22:34 pm »

What are the chances Disher skips up to AA? I can't imagine it happening, but it seems odd to send a hitter like that to low A--he'd be the one of the oldest players in the Sally League.

184

Beer and Queso / Re: Cutler saga over

« on: April 03, 2009, 02:24:44 am »

The rumors were that McDaniels was scared of him b/c 1) he's not very bright 2) he's a diabetic who won't stop drinking.

Assuming that's actually true about Cutler (and I'm not saying it is), then it was a smart move. You can't spend franchise QB kind of money on someone who's not willing to take care of himself--better to unload him while he's valuable.

185

Talk Zone / Re: Keppinger for PTNBL

« on: April 02, 2009, 12:22:29 pm »

My thoughts exactly.

186

Talk Zone / Re: Notes from Footer

« on: April 01, 2009, 01:13:01 pm »

After the draft. So, early June (I forget the exact date).

187

Talk Zone / Re: Notes from Footer

« on: April 01, 2009, 02:09:12 am »

I still wouldn't mind seeing the 'Stros pick him up and use Keppinger in the Jason Smith role.

188

Talk Zone / Re: Keppinger for PTNBL

« on: March 31, 2009, 06:51:35 pm »

So then it's not Sutton, at least not at this point in time.

189

Talk Zone / Re: Notes from Footer

« on: March 31, 2009, 12:05:17 pm »

Dallas McPherson + the Crawford boxes? Yes, please.

190

Talk Zone / Re: D-Train to DL

« on: March 29, 2009, 02:01:16 pm »

I am unaware that anxiety disorder can be detected in blood work. But hey, there's lots I don't know.

Yeah, I caught that too. Unless by 'blood work' they meant, "we checked his blood pressure and it was high."

191

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: March 27, 2009, 06:28:01 pm »

Ok, found it. I t was actually Ricky Bennet on a BA piece on Brad Dydalewicz:

"Dydalewicz was 0-0, 2.70 in four starts at Greeneville, with six strikeouts and three walks in 10 innings. Bennett said he will likely begin this year with a jump to low Class A Lexington.

"We're going to turn him loose," he said. "From an ability standpoint, he has a chance to compete in Lexington. We're going to give him the ball in camp and see how he handles it. Having Dydalewicz, Seaton, Lyles and some of these younger guys, we want to keep them together and have them compete against each other.""

192

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: March 26, 2009, 03:37:30 pm »

I swear I read somewhere that either Heck or Wade said that Lyles, Seaton and Dydalewicz would all be Lex next year, so they could keep pushing each other. Lemme see if I can find the link...

193

Talk Zone / Re: SnS Top 10 is now online

« on: March 24, 2009, 02:31:24 pm »

Awesome job, guys. BA and BP could learn a thing or two from you.

194

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lou Palmisano to minors

« on: March 23, 2009, 11:00:32 am »

Is Federico Hernandez slated for Lex, or he is going to Tri-City?

195

Talk Zone / Re: Oswalt inning goes international

« on: March 22, 2009, 10:03:55 pm »

He declined.

196

Talk Zone / Re: Today's game

« on: March 19, 2009, 11:49:05 am »

Forgive my ignorance, but why is it that a lot of people are so high on Bourn here, but have completely given up on Towles? Is it some sort of inside info that I've not heard?

197

Talk Zone / Re: Johnson

« on: March 04, 2009, 01:46:45 am »

Johnson looked pretty good in the field today (to my untrained eye) except for a pop by the Astros' dugout that he botched. He was not always a 3B, correct?

Fwiw, he also looked pretty good against the Braves last week.

198

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: February 26, 2009, 10:17:35 am »

Castro was the 6th-ranked catcher, Norris got a honorable mention as an RH reliever for his work in the AFL. That was it.

199

Beer and Queso / Re: Chimp rampage during the void

« on: February 20, 2009, 01:26:48 am »

The implication is that she probably had biblical knowledge of the chimp.  I've heard of letting God into your Heart, but never a monkey into your cooter.

But people from the south are all savages, so what do I know.

Hey, it's possible...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humanzee

200

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top Ten Contest

« on: February 17, 2009, 12:27:12 am »

Not to be impatient, but when's the ETA on this? I really want that oven mitt...

201

Talk Zone / Re: Offers were made to Wolf, Looper

« on: February 14, 2009, 09:04:53 pm »

I'm pretty sure I read El Duque wants to close. As for what pitchers are left, Pedro is about the only name worth mentioning iirc.

202

Talk Zone / Re: Roster Speculation

« on: February 12, 2009, 12:27:17 pm »

no way. he did a great job last year.

No argument here that Byrdak did a fine job--I just feel that if De La Vara manages to make the roster (and that's a big "if"), it wouldn't make sense to carry him, Wright, and Byrdak, and Byrdak is more likely to be shopped than Wright, who's younger, cheaper, and under team control for a longer period.

203

Beer and Queso / Re: What's there to do in Toronto?

« on: February 12, 2009, 12:58:25 am »

The Drake (http://www.thedrakehotel.ca/dining) is a bar/hotel combo that was a pretty good time when I was there back in '04. No idea what's like now, but worth checking out.

204

Talk Zone / Re: Roster Speculation

« on: February 11, 2009, 03:51:39 pm »

I could see Byrdak getting traded if one of the other lefties in camp (de la Vara, Lumsden) perform well, assuming there's still some teams out there in need of a lefty.

205

Talk Zone / Re: Adam Dunn?

« on: February 10, 2009, 01:35:25 am »

I've never seen him play the position, but I can only imagine how comically bad Lee's range at third would be. There's a reason he was moved off the hot corner in the first place.

206

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: January 28, 2009, 12:21:56 pm »

I wasn't aware that it was out yet--I'll probably swing by Borders over the weekend and check it out.

207

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: January 28, 2009, 11:35:16 am »

Do you mean the 2009 handbook?

208

Talk Zone / Did Pettitte receive an offer from the Astros?

« on: January 20, 2009, 10:01:45 pm »

From a Verducci in article on Si.com today:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/tom_verducci/01/20/free.agents/index.html?eref=T1

"Andy Pettitte did not bite on a one-year, $10 million offer from the Yankees, though a baseball source said he has been weighing a lesser offer to return to the Astros."

Usually I take these articles with a grain of salt, but Verducci's one of the better writers out there. Any idea to the validity of this? And how much could they have even offered, considering the financial situation?

209

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: January 16, 2009, 10:46:23 am »

Here's BA's list, by the by.

1.     Jason Castro,
2.    Bud Norris, rhp
3.    Ross Seaton, rhp
4.    Brian Bogusevic, of
5.    Chris Johnson, 3b
6.    Jordan Lyles, rhp
7.    Felipe Paulino, rhp
8.    Drew Sutton, 2b/ss
9.    Collin DeLome, of
10.    Jay Austin, of

The only big surprise for me is DeLome at 9, but they like his power and athleticism. Also, it should be noted that his scouting report picture has him rocking a mean porn 'stache.

210

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: January 16, 2009, 12:24:41 am »

It's a little short notice, but BA's list is out tomorrow, and since I got a subscription for Christmas, if there's any specific question you fellow Bus Riders want me to ask/prospect you wanna hear about, list it here I'll submit it for the chat.

211

Talk Zone / Re: Baseball Prospectus

« on: January 11, 2009, 10:32:17 pm »

Like almost everything else they write, I'm sure this one was pulled straight out of their collective assholes.

212

Beer and Queso / Re: The Final AP Poll

« on: January 09, 2009, 03:16:50 pm »

Re: the poll, I think Penn State should be above TCU, but I'm also a PSU fan/alum so I'm not exactly unbiased. Ohio is also a few spots too high. Other than that, the top 10 looks pretty much okay to me.

213

Talk Zone / Re: Astros Rotation 2009

« on: January 08, 2009, 04:01:50 pm »

The Astros took great notice of how effective Norris was out of the pen in the AFL.

I just hope that they give him the chance to start at some point--considering everything I hear about Nieve and Paulino suggests they end up in the 'pen long-term, the Astros really need either Norris or Perez to emerge as a viable big-league starter.

214

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: top prospect list season

« on: January 02, 2009, 11:22:51 am »

A good chunk of his "analyses" seems to be pulled from Rotoworld.com blurbs.

215

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Max Sapp in hospital

« on: December 31, 2008, 04:12:42 pm »

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081231&content_id=3730791&vkey=news_hou&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou

Apparently he's breathing without the respirator now, but has "significant memory loss." Hopefully the recovery/therapy goes well.

216

Talk Zone / Re: Nontenders

« on: December 16, 2008, 01:14:22 am »

How would you guys feel about Omar Vizquel at SS and Tejada at 3rd? I dunno how much Vizquel's bat has left, but his glove is still good. Plus, I imagine he'd come fairly cheap.

Also, I don't know what the general consensus is here about Chip's blog, but I probably enjoy reading his the most out of all the Chron blogs.

217

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5 draft eligibles of note

« on: December 11, 2008, 03:15:40 pm »

It's spelled "de la Vara" on the Astros' website. I will admit to spelling "Byrdak" wrong, though.

218

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5 draft eligibles of note

« on: December 11, 2008, 01:16:42 pm »

So does the selection of de la Vara mean that Brydak or Wright is going to be traded, or this this more of a back-up plan? I can't really see them carrying three lefties in the 'pen.

219

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5 draft eligibles of note

« on: December 11, 2008, 11:17:50 am »

Also, the 'Stros are apparently gonna trade for C Lou Palmisano, the Orioles' pick.

And what is it with Wade and KC pitchers this year?

220

Talk Zone / Re: Valverde isn't going anywhere...

« on: December 10, 2008, 08:38:36 pm »

AIG and some auto dealership

221

Talk Zone / Re: Stark on Astros/Winter meetings

« on: December 08, 2008, 02:14:26 pm »

Any idea of what they could get in return from LA?

222

Beer and Queso / Re: Muschamp to succeed Brown at Texas

« on: December 04, 2008, 12:57:20 pm »

Wisconsin may qualify...Madison's pop is only about 250,000, but it is the second-largest city in the state. Pitt's another one that comes to mind, assuming you consider both schools "traditionally successful."

223

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: December 04, 2008, 10:49:47 am »

http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/?p=1815

The AFL top 20 is up...Norris comes in #6, which is higher than I expected. I'm a little surprised to see Bogusevic left off the list, though.

224

Talk Zone / Re: Wolf and Brocail - 11pm Monday Deadline

« on: December 01, 2008, 11:26:40 pm »

So did anyone hear who got offered arby?

225

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2007 Draft picks falling

« on: November 26, 2008, 12:14:01 pm »

Maysonet is on the 40-man and played a bit after the rosters expanded last year.

226

Beer and Queso / Re: Muschamp to succeed Brown at Texas

« on: November 25, 2008, 01:59:22 pm »

It must be nice knowing your school has a plan in place--I don't think anyone knows what's gonna happen after JoePa goes.

227

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 24, 2008, 11:12:15 am »

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/chi-23-rogers-whispersnov23,0,2640085.story

"Some people in Houston are beginning to show optimism that the Astros could be the team to pull off a Jake Peavy deal. Roy Oswalt has been telling Peavy that as a 1-2 punch they would make Houston competitive again."

Hope springs eternal.

228

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5 draft eligibles of note

« on: November 24, 2008, 11:10:29 am »

I believe the player has to be active for 90 days. So no, I don't think they can do that.

The Cubs' Donald Veal is another one she didn't mention. As a starter he's never lived up to his potential, but as a reliever he's pitched well enough in relief that he could probably take over for Wes Wright, if he would happen to be traded.

229

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5 draft eligibles of note

« on: November 20, 2008, 04:36:16 pm »

Who, if anyone, would you guys like to see protected? I'm thinking Parraz and maybe Flores or Ori, though with the '08 draft, outfield is probably the strongest position in the org.

230

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5 draft eligibles of note

« on: November 20, 2008, 02:58:24 pm »

James is protected by being on the 40-man.

231

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 18, 2008, 03:56:38 pm »

Footer herself floated one of the rumors going around: Pence, Wright and James (substitute minor league pitchers). the statement above is a tad disingenous.

If Pence, Wright and James would have actually gotten us Peavy, and Drayton refused, he's insane. That might have been the steal of the century.

232

Talk Zone / Re: Cubs bolster pen, Swisher to the Bronx

« on: November 15, 2008, 03:40:33 pm »

Wood is Type A, would the Stros cough up their first round pick to the Cubs if they sign him?

Only if the sCrubs offer him arbitration, which I can't imagine they will--he'd probably accept, and they don't want him back.

233

Talk Zone / Re: Starting Pitching

« on: November 12, 2008, 07:43:50 pm »

Randy Wolf's agent, Arn Tellum/Wasserman Media, has an office in NYC...

234

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 08, 2008, 02:16:45 am »

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081107&content_id=3671250&vkey=news_hou&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou

"Astros officially out of race for Peavy"

Unless Wade is doing some serious zigging while we're zagging, it seems like we're out...unless Andyzipp knows something we don't.

235

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 07, 2008, 04:26:34 pm »

Someone ought to tell him they'd love Peavy just as much.

236

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 07, 2008, 10:32:03 am »

Rivera was my next thought, but he's been BAAAAAAD since his injury.

I'm still a believer. Give him consistent AB's and I think he'll do fine.

237

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 07, 2008, 10:11:47 am »

Rocco Baldelli's out there.

As is Juan Rivera.

238

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 06, 2008, 03:22:21 pm »

We may not be out of the race yet...

http://yankees.lhblogs.com/2008/11/06/yankees-not-in-the-mix-for-peavy/

"Towers also revealed that he is dealing with three teams, all in the National League. He mentioned the possibility of Peavy moving as part of a multi-team trade.

The Padres are known to be dealing with the Braves and Cubs. The third team could be the Cardinals or Astros."

Given everything we've been hearing, the Cards make more sense, but at this point, who really knows?

239

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Arizona Fall League

« on: November 06, 2008, 11:22:09 am »

I posted this in the Drew Sutton topic as well, but there is a article on Bogusevic at Baseball America right now. It's premium content, so if anyone has a subscription and could give us highlights, I (along with everyone else, I'm sure) would be very appreciative.

240

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 06, 2008, 12:26:11 am »

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8761340/Sources:-Cubs-consider-deals-for-Peavy,-Dempster?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=3498

Our favorite analyst Ken Rosenthal says the Cubs are now the front-runner to land Peavy.  I have a hard time believing this one--there farm system isn't too much better than ours. I have to imagine we can at least match any proposal that they put out there. Rotoworld speculates that the names involved could be Felix Pie, Rich Hill, Sean Marshall, Ronny Cedeno, Mike Fontenot and Donald Veal...not exactly the most inspiring group.

241

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 05, 2008, 11:53:57 am »

The Lidge trade came out of the blue, iirc. The Tejada trade was one of those deals where you heard about discussions, then heard it was dead, and then it happened later with little warning.

242

Talk Zone / Re: Peavy considers the AL wussified candyasses

« on: November 05, 2008, 11:32:03 am »

The only thing is, that for all the articles being written about this, I have yet to see one that suggests that the Astros and Padres have had any meaningful discussions about Peavy. Doesn't mean it's not happening, but you would imagine someone would have gotten wind of the talks and reported on it.

243

Talk Zone / Re: SAD, SHOCKING NEWS

« on: November 02, 2008, 12:08:48 pm »

RIP. My thoughts with with his family, and they have my sincere condolences.

244

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Drew Sutton

« on: October 30, 2008, 11:57:16 am »

http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/?p=1765

Neat little article about Sutton.

Also, today on BA, they've posted the NL Central draft report cards and an article about Bogusevic...both are premium content, so if anyone with a subscription could give us highlights from either or both articles, it would very much appreciated.

245

Talk Zone / Re: Japanese Baseball

« on: October 17, 2008, 06:39:53 pm »

Thanks for taking the time to type that up, Taras.  Did he mention why the Japanese pronounce "Baseball" like some type of military watering hole?

Japanese isn't my foreign language of expertise, but I think I can help you here, assuming you hear them say it as "bays(eh) ba(l)r". Japanese words, as a rule, do not usually have successive consonants. So, the "s" sound next to the "b" sound causes problems. That's why kind of vocalize the "e" slightly to put a vowel sound in between the two consonants. The "bar" part comes from the fact they don't have a distinctive "l" sound in their language, so when they pronounce foreign words with an "l" it comes off sounding like a cross between an l/r.

If I'm wrong here, someone please correct me, but I think that's the linguistic explanation. And if you weren't being serious, well then now I feel stupid. Anyway, hope this explains it.

246

Talk Zone / Re: AH HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHahaHAHAHHAHAHA HA!

« on: October 05, 2008, 02:41:03 am »

I am drunk off the tears of Cubs fans. Mwahahahahaha.

247

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: October 02, 2008, 05:16:29 pm »

Notes from the chat w/ Kary Booher:

Bogusevic would have made the lower part of the list if had he had enough ABs. Said that the transition was impressive. Booher said his athleticism and his eye at at the plate were two things that really stood out. Wants to see how he'll do once he gets into "outfield shape."

Norris got some consideration but the injuries kept him from making the list. Booher liked his stuff and said she sees him continuing to move up.

Drew Sutton's performance was great and he was "on the list of guys to consider," but his age kept him off the list.

Booher said Einertson is still an Astros Top 30 guy after this year. Said the performance was alright but needs to work on the strikeouts.

As for Johnson, here's Booher's take: "As for Johnson, I can see him, given the Astros' current climate, reaching the big leagues as a regular and being given a chance to stick. Defensively, while he might have a thick lower half, he has a strong arm, and it was probably the strongest of any Texas League infielder this year. Hitting-wise, he had to overcome a slow start, so that makes his offensive numbers all the more impressive when you comb through the splits. I had one observer tell me that Drew Sutton preferred hitting in front of him rather than after, a very nice compliment from an older and very good player."

My quick take: Booher seemed more bullish than most regarding the CC crop this year, at least those mentioned. I'll be very interested to see how Sutton, Johnson, Bogusevic, and Norris do in the AFL this year.

248

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: October 02, 2008, 10:14:50 am »

The Texas League's top 20 is up today. Chris Johnson snuck in at #20, making him the only Astros prospect on the list. I should be able to participate in the chat today, so are there any specific questions anyone wants answered?

249

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: September 29, 2008, 07:01:11 pm »

Glad to enlighten:

April .305
May .310
June .216
July .257
Aug .265

This is why the Astros liked the Carolina league.  You have to adjust because with only 8 teams, you have to adjust because they see you alot.  It looks like he wasn't able to make adjustments.    Although I also wonder about the impact of catching for the first time and for a full year had on fatigue. 

Thanks for asking the question.

I guess I look at that differently. That fact that his average dipped in June shows that pitchers figured him out. That fact that his average rose in July and August would seem to say that he was able to adjust and improve (albeit, slightly) after that. But I could be wrong.

Also, no need to thank me for asking questions, but you're welcome all the same.

Two other points of interest: I know someone made the comment about BP hating the Castro pick, but the guy that did BA's NYP League chat (I forgot who its was) was really high on Castro. Said he was a fairly safe bet to be an above-average big leaguer/occaisional all-star. I thought that was interesting since they did not exactly rave about the pick at the time.

Secondly, Drew Stubbs ranked 17th on the Florida League top 20 today. I thought that was interesting, especially since Jordan Parraz outperformed him in pretty much every category. Granted, the rankings aren't just based on performance, but Parraz has the same skill set (and is almost exactly the same age) and he didn't show up on the Carolina League top 20. Now Stubbs' performance after he was promoted was probably a factor, but I wonder if it's just another example of the Astros' farm system being unfairly maligned by the baseball press.

250

Talk Zone / Re: Cards extend Lohse, set price high

« on: September 29, 2008, 06:48:25 pm »

This isn't any worse than Carlos Silva getting 4/48. The market was fucked before this and will be fucked long after this one runs its course.

251

Talk Zone / Re: Ironic End to 2008

« on: September 27, 2008, 12:38:20 am »

The first game of '09 is against the sCrubs, right? Roy-O's first pitch of that game should be a very high and tight fastball.

252

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: September 26, 2008, 03:48:30 pm »

Well, my question did not get answered. However, he did mention Koby. He said that scouts were disappointed in his inconsistency at the plate, and he didn't mention his defense. Considering he put together a pretty decent season at the plate, this confused me a bit, but maybe one of you guys can enlighten me.

253

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: September 26, 2008, 10:59:49 am »

Carolina League was up today, and again, no one in the top 20. I figured I ask about about Parraz during the chat...anyone else people are curious about?

254

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: September 24, 2008, 05:16:13 pm »

I have a hard time imagining Sapp gets cut. For as bad as he's been, he's still just 20...not that he's got a good chance to put it all together, but is a chance. I wouldn't be surprised to him converted 1B and then given another shot at the Sally League. I think the fact that he was a first-rounder gets him at least one more year.

255

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: September 24, 2008, 01:25:25 pm »

The Sally League was today's top 20. Unsurprisingly, no one from Lexington made the list, but here's what Bill Ballew had to say about the Legends when asked in the chat:

"Lexington's difficulties were in many ways the poster child of the Astros' problems with their farm system. Pellegrini received the most attention from scouts. He didn't hit for average but showed good power before tiring late in the season. Abad and Cespedes received only modest attention, but Craig Corrado and Eric Taylor garnered some positive mentions. Corrado did a good job of moving to 2b from SS after having some throwing issues at 3B. Taylor is a UCLA product who has the ability to be a good hitter if he irons out some of the mechanical issues in his swing."

ETA: He also just called Max Sapp one of the biggest disappointments of the league. There's an understatement...

256

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: September 19, 2008, 02:17:13 pm »

Aaron Fitt just mentioned Shuck and Disher in the live chat. Says Disher lacks a position and he's not sure the bat is strong enough to make him a major-league DH. Fitt compares Shuck to Sam Fuld and says "he definitely has a chance." Fitt likes his speed, contact, and plate discipline, but says he just doesn't have any outstanding tools.

257

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 20 Prospect List

« on: September 19, 2008, 11:14:34 am »

http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/prospects/rankings/league-top-20-prospects/2008/266878.html

Jason Castro took the top spot on BA's NY-Penn League list, but he's the only Astro on there. I'm bit surprised to see Shuck left off, but I'll try to ask about about him when they do the chat.

258

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Salem Avalanche

« on: September 01, 2008, 12:37:34 am »

Has Parraz been injured the last few weeks? He doesn't seem to be playing much.

259

Talk Zone / Re: Footer on Sept callups

« on: August 25, 2008, 11:10:25 am »

What exactly has Ramirez done to earn a September call-up? Granted, I only have access to numbers, but those numbers are not...well, good. What am I missing?

Also, I'd rather see Saccomanno get the call-up than Johnson, who hasn't learned to hit Triple A pitching yet. The last thing we need is another Towles situation, where a guy shows a lot of success against September pitching and they rush him to the majors. Once again, maybe his play belies his AAA numbers thus far, but they're even worse than Yordany's.

It's a shame James, Norris and Perez couldn't stay healthy all year, because you'd think at least one of them would have been in line for a call-up had they been able to do so.

260

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Bogusevic Ankeiled?

« on: August 18, 2008, 01:02:51 am »

I only have access to box scores, so my analysis is limited, but Bogusevic really impressed me tonight. The last two games had had gone 0-7 with 4 Ks, but he rebounded tonight Sunday night with a 3-5 game with three hits (two doubles) and a walk. For a guy with limited experience as a position player, the ability to come back after lousy outings like that and really produce says a lot about how he approaches the game. 

261

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Bogusevic Ankeiled?

« on: August 11, 2008, 03:48:59 pm »

More of a "looking ahead" question, but who would be better defensively in CF: Bogusevic or Parraz?

262

Talk Zone / Re: "The most overrated position in sports"

« on: August 05, 2008, 02:18:31 pm »

I would be really surprised to see any manager breaking the taboo and using their best reliever for critical, non-save situations earlier in the game.  I don't follow Oakland, but don't they use Street in strictly the closers role?  Beane appears to talk about changing the paradigm, but talk seems to be about it.

Why would Beane want to change it? He's done a pretty good job of pulling closers out of nowhere and then spinning them for prospects or draft picks.

Also, I agree re: closers--you're sending a guy out there for one inning with a lead and no men on base. Lots of pitchers out there can get through that inning often enough to be a "good closer."

263

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2008 Draftees and Status

« on: August 05, 2008, 01:01:39 pm »

14th round selection Chris Hicks has been added to the Tri-City roster page at milb.com, so it's looks like he has signed. Now if they can get Davidson, they'll have signed every player taken in the first 15 rounds.

264

Talk Zone / Re: The deal the Astros didn't make

« on: August 02, 2008, 09:19:23 pm »

With Dunn being a free agent next year, maybe they were thinking about the draft picks he'll net when he declines arbitration.

265

Talk Zone / Re: The deal the Astros didn't make

« on: August 01, 2008, 12:11:38 pm »

When I first read that I thought Boof Bonser, but yeah, Laird makes much more sense.

266

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BEST Major League ASTRO Prospect

« on: August 01, 2008, 01:15:58 am »

I must say though, some of our Tri-City hitters are looking pretty dang good.

I agree. Disher has been a beast, and both Shuck and Steele have done nicely. Though, Steele has 50-something Ks to about 4 BBs, which is not what I wanted to see.

267

Talk Zone / Re: Astros "seriously" after Randy Wolf

« on: July 22, 2008, 04:04:33 pm »

1-6 W-L, 6.63 ERA, 1.62 WHIP away from PETCO. Yikes. At least we didn't give up much.

268

Game Zone 2008 Archive / Re: Pirates @ Astros 7-21-08

« on: July 21, 2008, 10:36:49 pm »

Living in PA, I don't get to see too many games on TV. But after watching tonight, I just cannot comprehend the fact that McLane and Wade still think The Good Guys have a shot at this season.

269

Talk Zone / Re: Value

« on: July 17, 2008, 01:55:30 pm »

I think the Twins is the team you need to be looking at. They need what we have (relief help and a lefty-mashing 3B), and they're about as pitching-rich as a team can be in 2008. I've always liked Scott Baker, but whether or not he's a true #3 starter is debatable.

270

Game Zone 2008 Archive / Re: Houston at Baltimore, 6/19/08

« on: June 19, 2008, 10:31:23 pm »

Just got back from the game--I live in southern PA, so Baltimore is the one place I can actually go to a game on a weekday night and get home in time to get a decent amount of sleep.

Weather was nice, stadium (as always) was nice, LOTS of asshole O's fans. I did get Valverde to wave at me from the bullpen, so that was cool.

271

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Chris Johnson

« on: June 16, 2008, 01:42:24 am »

Going into this season, I really thought it was going to be Iorg's breakout year...instead, it looks it's going to be Johnson's year instead.

If he comes around on defense, I could see him being a late-season contributer next year, maybe even earlier if they feel they could get something decent for Wigginton.

272

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2008 Pre-Draft Thread

« on: June 03, 2008, 04:39:08 pm »

Hey all,

I've been lurking here a while, but I've been really excited about this year's draft, and figured this would be a good place to jump into with my first post.

While I agree with everyone that Matusz falling to #10 would be great, I have to disagree with the idea that the 'Stros shouldn't draft Smoak if he's the best player available at the time. With the way the farm is, they really shouldn't be drafting for need--they just need to take the best player available. Even if Smoak is still blocked by the time he's ready, then they can do a Young-for-Garza type deal and net themselves a promising young arm in return.

And as fun as trying to project the first round is, has anyone else been looking into some guys who could be later-round picks? They're practically impossible to actually guess, but there are some names out there that have caught my eye, especially Derrick Saito (http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/draft/y2008/reports.jsp?content=saito). He'd be a first-rounder if he was a few inches taller, and he really looks like he could be a steal at round 3 or lower if the team who picks him is willing to let him try starting.