Messages

1

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Re: Astros - Brewers Saturday night Bagwell

« on: September 03, 2011, 06:46:30 pm »

Yeah. If I was at home in Houston, that would be easy. But I'm not, so it's not. Oh well. Gameday Audio it is. Thanks.

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Game Zone 2011 Archive / Re: Astros - Brewers Saturday night Bagwell

« on: September 03, 2011, 06:41:43 pm »

Okay, so I'm at my in-laws for the weekend in the boonies outside Kerrville. They have no-frills Dish Network, but can't for the life of me find the Astros game. My in-laws din't follow sports at all, so they're no help. I'm not even sure they get the right channel. Anyone have a clue how I might find the games tonight and tomorrow? Thanks.

3

Talk Zone / Re: Giving up even the pretense of a "neutral" site:

« on: May 12, 2010, 11:34:18 pm »

While it certainly is horse shit, like most things, it comes down to money. They have the best chance of selling the most tickets by playing the games in Philly than anywhere else. It's not fair, but it's the most profitable. Frankly, I would've liked to see the games played in Montreal, but even the Citizens of Montreal might disagree with me on that one.

And I'm not sure how well they could've anticipated this problem. The venue is available. I think it is the city of Toronto that isn't allowing the games to be played there. MLB tried to fight to keep them there. I don't think they anticipated a problem, even if they knew about the G20 Summit in plenty of time.

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Talk Zone / Re: Nice Analysis to Revisit

« on: December 18, 2007, 11:36:45 pm »

And, that is one weakass rotation.

At this stage, I agree with you, but I wonder what Wandy and/or Backe might do this season. Both have sown flashes of brilliance in the past, not ace-type briliance, but the kind that would work for a #2 starter if sustained over the course of an entire season. I was very impressed with Wandy when he was on at home, if he can work those kinds of starts over even 1/2 of his road games, he'd be a great #3. Backe, even going back to his start in the 2004 NLCS, has been amazing at times. He looked really good in limited action last September. If he realizes that over a full season, he could be an adequate #2.

Of course, the Astros can't count on either happening, and it's still a weak rotation on paper. They both could implode, and I agree that they aren't at that level yet. But if their past success could work over the course of the entire season, this could be a very good rotation.

5

Talk Zone / Re: No support for Berkman's open piehole

« on: December 18, 2007, 11:14:01 pm »

Yeah, I laughed out loud when I read that.  Backe just opened his mouth and said what everyone in Houston was thinking.

Another reason why Brandon Backe is one of my favorite players.

About Berkman, isn't he supposed to be the laid back type? If so, this chemistry thing probably won't matter come February. Take 'em out for pancakes and make some new friends.

6

Talk Zone / Re: CJ Nitkowski defends the Finger Man

« on: December 16, 2007, 02:58:22 am »

Vets should print out your last post and show it to an animal about to be put down. It'd make the poor thing paw for the needle.

You are probably correct. Good night, sweet prince, And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!

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Talk Zone / Re: CJ Nitkowski defends the Finger Man

« on: December 16, 2007, 02:33:03 am »

jason - I think you're the same retard that didn't get the joke that .38 Special is a band and I was listening to a bootleg (illegal recording). You must be legally retarded.

Your are so fucking dumb, you wouldn't even appreciate the What's Happening episode when Rog, ReRun and DeWayne Wayne get nailed bootlegging a Doobie Brothers concert.

You can't post shit, BECAUSE YOU ARE SHIT!

Give up. Please.

No, I was the retard who thought it was a gun. Was I right? **crossing fingers**

And unfortunately, I am not legally retarded. The government is currently unaware of my retarded status, despite my attempts to gain legal retardation. I'm hoping to avoid deportation to my non-retarded State of Mind, but they're really cracking down on the illegal retards in this country. I'm really nervous about how that will turn out.

But you are right about how I can't post shit. No matter how many times I try to tape/staple/superglue the stuff to the computer screen, it keeps slipping off. How do you post shit? Maybe you can help me out. Please?

8

Talk Zone / Re: CJ Nitkowski defends the Finger Man

« on: December 16, 2007, 01:54:03 am »

but not as bad as you like to post on anything and everthing to see your "mark" (an X if he's lucky to know to make that) in lights on the internet, with a genuine GED backwoods insight all laugh at. I'm amazed you have time to attack me and not what I brought up. Between spotting deer and stillin!

See, here you lost me. Does this have something to do with Proust or maybe Hip-Hop? Because that and macroeconomics are completely off my radar.

...oh yeah, and Rapid Urban Bridge Construction. I have no clue about that either.

9

Talk Zone / Re: ...But would the Astros want him back?

« on: December 16, 2007, 01:35:23 am »

Cabrera and all.

http://www.orangewhoopass.com/forums/index.php?topic=104568.msg172739#msg172739

Dammit! I was never going to find it in that long-ass thread, but I thought it might be in there somewhere, but it was hijacked before that conversation took off.

All right, so whadya think? Is DQ in Houston a good thing in 2008? I say no.

GO!

10

Talk Zone / Re: CJ Nitkowski defends the Finger Man

« on: December 16, 2007, 01:32:14 am »

Look, I'm You're Ed Wade.

So I am Ed Wade and You are Ed Wade? So we are one in the same in His Wadeness. Let Wade be exalted upon high! Praise Baio!!

11

Talk Zone / ...But would the Astros want him back?

« on: December 16, 2007, 01:15:34 am »

Ken Davidoff of Newsday seems to say that Clemens might return in 2008 out of spite, and that Houston could be a logical place to land. Definitely rumor that may or may hold water, but I don't think he would be a good idea even without the steroid accusation.

Link

12

Talk Zone / Re: Identical Lamb

« on: December 16, 2007, 01:00:28 am »

I'm surprised by the lack of talk about Lamb this offseason.   I think he has been a very under-appreciated part of the team and will be missed.

I too am a bit surprised by the lack of talk, but only because EVERYTHING is talked about to death around here (and I mean that in a good way). But I don't think he'll be missed that much. This team has changed so much that the role of each player is much different. Blum will replace Lamb more than adequately in the field when needed, and Cruz might do a good job filling in at the plate, but even if they don't, in the scheme of the whole team, I don't see it as much of a loss.

13

Talk Zone / Re: CJ Nitkowski defends the Finger Man

« on: December 16, 2007, 12:54:01 am »

Read the point I made in my first respone. Now don't all get mad at me!

Just because some of the female posters here should change their user name to "Face like Ausmus' Glove" gives me no joy. Really.

Just shaking things up and want the best, want to talk real baseball and many here don't. Many here need to take their "jokes" elsewhere.

I'd love to see and Ed Wade thread with real, insightful comments.

Also, a Purpura thread with the same.

Here, half the time it looks like a Dairy Queen conversation. I know what DQ is. I'm just saying it's fucking lame.

Really. No one's forcing you to be here.

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Talk Zone / Re: CJ Nitkowski defends the Finger Man

« on: December 16, 2007, 12:52:12 am »

That skin response is the same horrible unfunny crap that goes on here. Not even sure it was a joke or what it means. Perhaps a Kevin Bass reference?

Maybe, I'm fucked. Tell me what the fuck does that mean? I have soft skin and need cream? I jack off? What does that mean Budgirl? Please explain your hilarious fucking joke. I'd love to hear it. I bet it hits on so many levels I'll piss myself and have to turn off my .38 Special bootleg I'm rocking to. Do tell, You old crow.

Wow. That really confused me. I have no idea where Kevin Bass come in, and is a .38 Special a gun? If so, that's confusing and creepy.

You know, when I read this out loud, it sounds like I'm drunk.

But I'm not drunk.

15

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens in the Mitchell Report

« on: December 16, 2007, 12:28:30 am »

See it live!

Roger "The Rocket" Clemons – My Vigorous Workout, How I Played So Long

January 12th in Waco at the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association
State Convention.

Was that a joke, or did they remove him from the agenda? He's not currently listed anywhere on the schedule.

16

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens in the Mitchell Report

« on: December 16, 2007, 12:26:49 am »

I made a post on this thread in earnest about Rocket and legal options and noone even cared to answer it. It's much more salient with Andy Pettitte's quote's from today. Fucking Ponderous.

This thread's moving along at a nice clip. It may have simply been overlooked. Try starting a new thread.

Hold on. Is this the post you mean?

Rocket is screwed. Big TIME.

like others said, the Truth is an absoute defense. No matter how damaging.

Rocket and counsel would have to prove Mitchell and MLB et al.. knew it was false and printed it anyway to damage him specifically (malice). As a public figure his burden is almost impossible to overcome. Courts say guys like Clemens have acesss to the media and can answer the allegations. By the way, Libel is printed and Slander is spoken (saying something damaging on the radio).

So what now?, he's going to sue federal investigators? The IRS, FBI and the U.S. Attorney? Rocket has alot of jack, but not near enough to beat that rap. Also, Mitchell had MLB sign papers that he can't be sued and any suit is MLB's problem.

Sorry Rocket, you are ruined!

This is a Federal Case.

There are mainly just opinions here. Were you looking for someone to agree? I didn't think there were questions needing answers, rather questions and answers in the same post.

17

Talk Zone / Re: Qualls and Burke dealt

« on: December 16, 2007, 12:12:40 am »

Great trade. No one will miss Burke - good riddance. Qualls - sad to see him go and a good guy by all accounts.

We now have a top closer. Glad we turned Burke, Scott, and other bad prospects into Tejada and Valverde.

I don't think I'd call Patton a "bad prospect", but I too like the trades at this point. Tejada's performance this year will determine how good that trade was. Anything less than .300/25/90 will be hard to swallow.

18

Talk Zone / Re: CJ Nitkowski defends the Finger Man

« on: December 16, 2007, 12:07:22 am »

What the fuck does Finger Man even mean? (I'm guessing you're calling McNamee "Finger Man")

As in he pointed the finger at Clemens/Pettitte/others in the Mitchell Report. Is there another meaning?

19

Talk Zone / Re: Qualls and Burke dealt

« on: December 14, 2007, 09:31:01 pm »

And Ed Wade is a pyromaniac.

I'd say this is so apt that it merits full consideration in the Funk & Wagner.

20

Talk Zone / Re: Mario Williams is a f***ing stud.

« on: December 14, 2007, 10:44:37 am »

I think people from Houston tend to think the A&M rivalry is a bigger deal than the OU rivalry.  The opposite is true of UT fans from Dallas.  Its just my experience.  

I think that's probably right. Having grown up in the Houston area, I definitely heard more about UT/TAMU from the people in the community, although the particular community I grew up in was innundated with aggie fans.

21

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 14, 2007, 10:28:39 am »

Just to muddy the waters regarding Palmeiro... he wasn't under oath when he went before congress. Lying under oath to congress is a crime, but the "discussions" with McGwire, Schilling, Palmeiro, Sosa, et al were "informal" and thus any statements made at that time were not actionable under perjury laws, regardless of their veracity or lack thereof.

Very good point, although I though I remembered seeing pictures of them taking an oath. If you're right, though, I think that makes it clear that none of them could face purjury charges, regardless of what they said.

22

Talk Zone / Re: Mario Williams is a f***ing stud.

« on: December 14, 2007, 10:25:33 am »

Ever heard of Michigan and Ohio State?

Have you? I lived in Michigan for 4 years. The media like to make a lot of Michigan/OSU, and there is definitely something to it, but it's nothing compared to the petty trash that happens every year between UT and TAMU. Although I don't really care much about either, for whatever reason, it seems that TAMU throws the most trash in a middle-school sort of way.

23

Talk Zone / Re: Mario Williams is a f***ing stud.

« on: December 14, 2007, 12:44:38 am »

Why is it that when the Titans win it's because of Vince Young, but when they lose it's because of his shitty offensive teammates?

Vince Young isn't even the best player on his own team.

Bitter much?

24

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens in the Mitchell Report

« on: December 13, 2007, 11:25:26 pm »

I was wondering who Clemens would sue.  I would think MLB is the obvious choice.  Does Mitchell have any kind of protection?  One would think he wouldn't have agreed to do the investigation and open himself to lawsuits without some kind of immunity or at least an agreement from MLB to foot his legal bills.

I would be shocked if any slander suit came out of this because the plaintiff has to prove that the defendant knowingly disseminated false information, and that's tough. In any case, I would think McNamee would be the only one with even a chance of a slander accusation because he's the one who made the claims. Mitchell simply reported the information he was given, and MLB gave him the charge for that investigation.

25

Talk Zone / Re: Everybody relax, Congress will fix this right up

« on: December 13, 2007, 10:47:08 pm »

This is real funny................do any of you even vote ?

No ....of course not............I just bitch on the internet.

Haven't missed an election since I turned 18, and that includes the obscure municipal elections.

... where's my cookie?

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Talk Zone / Re: Mario Williams is a f***ing stud.

« on: December 13, 2007, 10:45:26 pm »

Good game tonight, good season.

What? Football? That's still around?

27

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 10:23:42 pm »

here's a side question:  would telling the truth have incriminated himself in MLB's eyes though, and does he in that case have the right not to incriminate himself.

MLB is not a government organization, so no, he has no Fifth Amendment protection from MLB.

Also, I believe his alleged use was before the substance was banned by MLB, so the offense wouldn't be punishable anyway.

28

Talk Zone / Re: Logistics questions

« on: December 13, 2007, 10:20:30 pm »

Harry Potter leaked.  Some guy took a picture of every page and it was on the web five or six days before the official release.

Not every page. Just the ToC and the first chapter.

Yeah. I'm a Potter fan. Got a problem with it?

29

Talk Zone / Re: The Astros respond

« on: December 13, 2007, 10:13:34 pm »

The "so what, what are you going to do about it" tactic?  Or maybe he could say stuff like "I know that!  Don't you think I know that?  I can't believe that you would think that I do not know that!" while smoking a cigarette and covered in flop sweat.

I like the latter.  Flop sweat's funnier.

30

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 10:12:44 pm »

Of course they needed hard evidence on palmeiro, I just think perhaps they failed to dig deep enough to find it.    Without it however, they were justified in not prosecuting him for perjury.   

As far the Feds and Bonds, i'm sure you are right, all i'm saying is his attitude towards the press contributed heavily to him being the prime target in "Game of Shadows" and without that book, would the Feds ever have had the hard evidence needed to prove he lied in court?   

The fact, though, is that he lied. It doesn't matter what Game of Shadows said. If he had told the truth, he would not be facing prosecution right now. see Giambi, Jason.

If you don't lie, it doesn't matter whether you're a jerk or not.

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Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 10:09:06 pm »

Good luck with that theory.

Notice that I didn't say that it had no effect, only that its affect is overblown. A substance does not exist that allows someone to see a ball better or make better contact or locate that fastball. In other words, steroids can't help Pedro Cerrano hit the curve ball, nor will it even turn Adam Everett into Lance Berkman. Even with what people know about what it does, no one's sure exactly how much it helps. In fact, my understanding is that most players are most tempted to use the stuff in an attempt to recover faster from injury. While that's still a competitive advantage, that's not exactly all about hitting the long ball.

32

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 09:55:32 pm »

Great line:
"8. Suggested follow-up investigation for Mitchell: How could 18 Orioles have used performance-enhancing drugs and have still performed at such a poor level for so long?"

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/baseball/bal-maese1213,0,1634908.story?coll=bal_tab01_layout

Honestly, I think this points to the possibility that steriods, HGH, and the like may not help the atheletes' play nearly as much as many people, including the media, would like to think.

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Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 09:51:34 pm »

I know exactly why he's getting prosecuted.    As to point 2, I strongly doubt palmeiro goes to congress in march, says i never knowingly use steroids, then before may of that same yr just starts using roids and fails a steroid test in MLB.   Nor do I think he had no clue what he was injecting into his body.   Thus, I don't think they dug hard enough for dirt on his steroid usage.

 
When you are talking about federal prosecutions, "strongly doubt" means absolutely nothing. You need hard evidence.

As to point 1, you are right as you know more than me on it, but again the two situations are not that different.   Finally, his identity as said jerk may be irrelevant to the Feds, but i'm sure it wasn't lost on the authors of game of shadows when they targeted him first and foremost in their book.  The significance of which is that book is where the proof he was using generates its existence.

Again, the Feds were investigating BALCO and talked to Bonds as part of that investigation. If Bonds had told the truth, as Jason Giambi allegedly did, he would not be facing jail time right now. To my knowledge, much fewer people regard Giambi as much of a jerk. Yet, the only thing that distinguishes him from Bonds in the eyes of the Feds is that Giambi told the truth and Bonds lied. That's all there is to it.

34

Talk Zone / Re: The Astros respond

« on: December 13, 2007, 09:42:11 pm »

So the Astros can't use the "disappointed"  line or the part about the "...information at hand..."  Wade is going to have to flog the "not here to talk about the past" schtick.  He needs to be careful and not blurt out that they just wanted a big galoot at short and were willing to do whatev, no matter what.

I wonder if their thought wasn't more along the lines of realizing how pervasive this was going to be, and said, "To hell with it. Maybe he's dirty, but half the players out there probably are too. We can't avoid it altogether like we thought we could."

I'm not saying that's a better line, but I could see it happening that way.

35

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 09:27:32 pm »

then where is the jail time for palmeiro, who lied to congress, and has a positive test which bonds lacks?     Also would the feds have even been involved if bonds wasn't going after aaron's record and wasn't a genuine jerk, causing people to want to find dirt on him(ie leading to game of shadows).

Do you have any clue how Federal prosecutions work?
1. Lying to Congress, while still illegal, is not the same as lying to the Feds. If Congress decided they wanted to do something about it, they would.
2. Palmiero's positive test was after the testimony. That alone would keep them from pressing charges, if that was all they had, because it is only circumstantial evidence. The Feds don't press charges unless they feel the case is rock-solid.
3. Barry Bonds is not being prosecuted because he used steroids; it's because he lied to the Feds. This is an important distinction.
4. The Feds couldn't care less about some sports record. This was about BALCO's illegal drug activity, and Bonds was a peripheral player until he lied. His identity as a jerk is irrelevant.

36

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 08:45:48 pm »

if he wasn't an A-hole he likely wouldn't be facing jail time do to this scandal.  but because he is, he was target numero uno, and thus sent down the river.

Um. No. He's facing jail time because he allegedly lied to the feds. That's something that both the a-holes and the nice guys have done and will continue to do.

37

Talk Zone / Re: Everybody relax, Congress will fix this right up

« on: December 13, 2007, 06:07:34 pm »

I look forwardbackward to a time when Congressmen (and women) meet only when there is something worthy of their attention.

And, pray tell, when did this utopia exist and in what parallel universe?

38

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 06:04:01 pm »

I think that's very fair.  In my mind, it doesn't change the fact that Bonds is a racist, abusive asshole, but I can certainly understand the perspective that he's had more than his share of the steroid glare.

Absolutely. There are plenty of racist ass holes in baseball and all around us. Frankly, I don't care about them, certainly not enough to waste my time to "bash" them. They are what they are. No amount of bashing on my part will change that fact. Let's move on.

39

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 06:01:18 pm »

Well said.  Bonds is a convergence of the perfect storm that has hit.  Steriod-mania, A-hole personality and hallowed home run record... it's all there and cause for some personal feelings attached to all of this.

It had nowhere to go but to a public spectacle.

exactly. Bonds is not the problem. The only thing that separates him from the others on that list is that he holds the most valued record in sports, but that was only because he was the most gifted hitter of this generation, and he happened to play in the Steroid Era, and he fell into the same quag mire that many others fell into.

40

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 05:48:40 pm »

I'm curious... why?

Without getting too much into this, I think the media and fans have focused too much on Bonds in the steroids issue, which has taken attention away from the real problem, which is the pervasive, systemic problem of substance abuse in baseball (and probably many other sports as well). Baseball looked the other way, and in some cases may have actually encouraged this behavior. I find that to be the greater offense because the complicity was happening on a systemic level, rather than simply an individual level. While this does not exonerate Bonds and other who may or may not have used, it provides a context for understanding the position they were put in.

I see Bonds as a surly man who is nothing more than another member of the Steroid Era.

41

Talk Zone / Re: Who is Garner Protecting?

« on: December 13, 2007, 03:00:19 pm »

23 in 1997, and not on MIL yet.

Around 27, on the 1997 MIL roster:

Dave Nilsson
Fernando Vina
Jeff Cirillo
Jose Valentin
Jeromy Burnitz
Kelly Stinnett
Ron Villone
Bryce Florie
Angel Miranda
Mike Misuraca

I say "around" because I'm not sure how b-r.com calculates age, and at what point that player was supposed to be 27... these are the 27-28 year olds.

Wasn't Ron Villone named elsewhere in the report? Could be him.

42

Talk Zone / Re: Can you still root for Tejada?

« on: December 13, 2007, 02:57:24 pm »

I've happily ripped Bonds for years, and dont plan to stop.  Now what is appropriate for Tejada?

I have never ripped Bonds (and was slightly irritated by those who did, for various reasons). I plan on rooting fully for Tejada (and Stephen Randolph, should he make the team).

43

Talk Zone / Re: Recommendation: Forego punishment....

« on: December 13, 2007, 02:54:56 pm »

Wow, I expected the MLB to say this, but for Mitchell to recommend it means that is what this whole witch hunt turns out to be.  A whole lot of nothing other than show that steroids is rampant, so do something about changing the climate MLB and MLBPA.

That is all, don't punish anyone... play ball.

You gotta believe that was already know by those making deals like the one Houston made yesterday.  No one is going to be penalized from the report.

Oh come on, This moved way beyond simply identifying and punishing offenders long ago. That's why it irritates me to now end how people and the media are only concerned with one thing: Names.

This is about the pervasive problem that baseball itself allowed, and I think in some cases may have even encouraged. This is about the mortaging of competition and integrity for the sake of more powerful (i.e. "attention-getting") performances of the players. Read the Mitchell report between the lines and you see that MLB and the individual clubs would have been crazy to dampen the machine once it got roaring. They saw what McGuire and Sosa did in 1998, and they weren't about to dampen that high, regardless of the cost. That, to me, is the bigger crime: not that the individuals took the steroids (because you expect certain individuals to make bad but well-meaning mistakes), but the level of complicity that the sport as a whole showed through that time.

So you want to punish people? Start by punishing the league or the owner. Are you going to take away championships? Give refunds to ticket-holders? Close up the whole damn league? Enforcing punishment at this stage of the problem would simply create new problems and REALLY turn this whole thing into a witch hunt. This is the Steroids Era for all time, and everyone is implicated. That's the greatest punishment.

44

Talk Zone / Re: Just a Thought

« on: December 13, 2007, 12:58:14 pm »

They traded Patton, anything is possible.

With all due respect to Mr. Patton, he's no Pence.

45

Talk Zone / Re: just like clockwork(A-ROD related)

« on: December 13, 2007, 12:47:43 pm »

My favorite

That's the exact quote I was thinking of.

46

Talk Zone / Re: just like clockwork(A-ROD related)

« on: December 13, 2007, 12:43:19 pm »

Basically any Yankee since The Mick retired would be good to see.  I hated the Yankees then, too, but Mantle was an icon not to be tarnished.

... his poor liver, unfortunately, had all the tarnish one man can take.

47

Talk Zone / Re: Interesting Nontenders

« on: December 13, 2007, 12:41:54 pm »

Every report I've read/heard about Prior quotes various Cubs/MLB people as saying Prior will likely never pitch again. That doesn't exactly sound promising. I think maybe offer him a NRI, but nothing more would be worth it.

48

Talk Zone / Re: just like clockwork(A-ROD related)

« on: December 13, 2007, 12:33:07 pm »

I want to see Mookie Wilson's name on that list too... or perhaps Cap Anson.

That would give me a chuckle.

49

Talk Zone / Re: Major announcement at 12:30

« on: December 12, 2007, 09:35:09 pm »

That's because the average fan doesn't have clue who the prospects are for other teams (or even their own team). Troy Patton might as well be Troy McClure to them. Most of them are saying, "We traded Miggy for who?" I hope Tejada makes this deal look like the Astros made out on top, but right now, it seems pretty even to me. Baltimore comes out on top, though, if Tejada remains in 2007 form and Patton fulfills expectations.

ETA: Scratch that. I misread your post: 31.4% say that they didn't get enough for Tejada, meaning that 68.6% thought they made out well. Well good for them, but that blows my theory out of the water.

Although here's one disgruntled fan comment from the same article:

Awesome ... a 29-year-old 4th outfielder, a guy who can't throw strikes, a 4A slugger who strikes out too much, a starter with an ERA near 6 and a WHIP of 1.4 ... and the crown jewel - a projected 4th starter with bad mechanics and an injury history.

Dude's obviously a glass-half-empty kind of guy.

50

Talk Zone / Re: Major announcement at 12:30

« on: December 12, 2007, 09:29:40 pm »

the Baltimore Sun is asking it's readers  31.4% said no.

That's because the average fan doesn't have clue who the prospects are for other teams (or even their own team). Troy Patton might as well be Troy McClure to them. Most of them are saying, "We traded Miggy for who?" I hope Tejada makes this deal look like the Astros made out on top, but right now, it seems pretty even to me. Baltimore comes out on top, though, if Tejada remains in 2007 form and Patton fulfills expectations.

ETA: Scratch that. I misread your post: 31.4% say that they didn't get enough for Tejada, meaning that 68.6% thought they made out well. Well good for them, but that blows my theory out of the water.

51

Talk Zone / Re: 2008 HOF Ballot candidates released

« on: December 12, 2007, 09:09:42 pm »

Blyleven, Gossage, McGuire

52

Talk Zone / Re: Ike Turner, RIP

« on: December 12, 2007, 08:53:51 pm »

Maybe not a nice man but Ike & Tina's version of Rolling on the River is my all time favorite.

[Bass voice] And we're roll -lin, roll-lin, rollin on the river. roll-lin on the riv- er [end bass voice, cue screaming brass]

I believe the song is called "Proud Mary", but you're right. Ike & Tina's cover of the song is legendary.

53

Talk Zone / Re: Major announcement at 12:30

« on: December 12, 2007, 02:00:48 pm »

How's Roger's hammy?

still irrelevant to the Astros roster.

54

Talk Zone / Re: Major announcement at 12:30

« on: December 12, 2007, 01:56:18 pm »

you should practice counting to two

dammit. I wrote that before deciding to include the pitcher, and I forgot to change it. Change made.

55

Talk Zone / Re: Major announcement at 12:30

« on: December 12, 2007, 01:47:05 pm »

Bourn, Matsui, Tejada, Berkman, Lee, Pence, Wigginton, Towles, Oswalt

Holy crap!

I just realized that this projected Opening Day lineup includes exactly three players out of nine (Lee, Berkman, & Oswalt) who were even on the 25-man roster on Opening Day 2007, and Berkman & Oswalt were the only ones on the the 2006 Opening Day roster.

Although I think this move could be very good (or disasterous), this is not the way I'm used to the Astros working.

56

Talk Zone / Re: Asking price for Scott

« on: December 12, 2007, 09:59:19 am »

Hold your ground Ed.  You don't have to deal Scott.  And having Scott and Abercrombie as your 4 and 5 offers some excellent protection against injury and flexibility on your bench.

On another matter, I'm surprised that you include Scott and Abercrombie as your 4 and 5. I kind of thought the preseason OF depth chart after the starting three went Scott, Ramirez, Cruz, Abercrombie. What makes you think Abercrombie will make the 25-man?

57

Talk Zone / Re: Asking price for Scott

« on: December 12, 2007, 09:53:33 am »

Hold your ground Ed.  You don't have to deal Scott.  And having Scott and Abercrombie as your 4 and 5 offers some excellent protection against injury and flexibility on your bench.

I don't disagree, but if Scott and/or Burke are in a package for some good starting pitching, I'm all for that. I'd rather it be for MLB-ready talent, but I'd also rather take a jet-pack to work everyday too.

58

Talk Zone / Asking price for Scott

« on: December 12, 2007, 09:45:18 am »

Now that Fukudome is off the market, maybe the market for Luke Scott will gain some steam. It appears the Astros are asking for some decent pitching prospect in return (but not finding a taker yet):

Seeking a left-handed bat to complement Jayson Werth in right field, the Phils have turned their attention to switch-hitter Bobby Kielty after their inquiry into the Astros' Luke Scott elicited a turnoff of an asking price -- either Carlos Carrasco or Josh Outman, both prime pitching prospects.

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071211&content_id=2322817&vkey=hotstove2007&fext=.jsp

59

Talk Zone / Re: Law Office of Bob Loblaw on the Big Screen!

« on: December 07, 2007, 09:25:40 pm »

Awesome. Best. Comedy. Ever.

A movie would be the icing. No touching.

60

Talk Zone / Re: NYCU

« on: December 07, 2007, 09:19:43 pm »

Don't go cuttin' off your ear.  Or, pecker.

I believe that would fall under the category of not dealing with it.

61

Talk Zone / Re: NYCU

« on: December 07, 2007, 03:06:48 pm »

That's for each man to decide for himself.  However, prepare to be mocked for your aesthetic sensibilities.

I've had to deal with that my whole life.

62

Talk Zone / Re: NYCU

« on: December 07, 2007, 02:58:59 pm »

I have mentioned elsewhere the impressive authority of using latin.  Many Americans believe that all foreign languages have mystic powers.  Also shubbery and certain petroleum distillates.  The sad fact is that if you have questions about the rules regarding the draft (some say organized theft) that just occured in MLB and you go looking for "Rule vee" in the rule book, you will be lost.  If you seek further articles on the Rule V draft and type that into the Google search engine, you will receive back a mere 4% of the articles written about that draft.  The cream of the crop or the bottom of the barrel?   A cavalier regard for accuracy fits well with the current vogue of substituting a wild ass guess for organized research.  It's close enough, what can it hurt?

Good point. I see what you mean, and you've convinced me that it is a legitimate beef against "journalists", as this thread and your NYCU originally addressed, but for my lay purposes, I still prefer the beauty of "Rule V".

63

Talk Zone / Re: Some insight into the process of FA signings

« on: December 07, 2007, 02:52:58 pm »

See, that sounds like the GM is cool with the reach-around and gets things started, but then doesn't seal the deal. Probably because Drayton walked into the room or something.

That was my thought exactly.

64

Talk Zone / Re: NYCU

« on: December 07, 2007, 02:39:00 pm »

I still don't get what the big deal is. Okay. Fine. It's referred to by an Arabic numeral in the rule book. Why is that sole fact important? It's not like "Rule V" refers to anything different than "Rule 5" or "Rule Five" or "Rule ||||"

And besides, I prefer typing "Rule V" because of the aesthetic value. "V" simply looks better than "5". Paintings and music have been created about "V" (see Georgia O'Keefe). The "5" is ugly, utilitarian. It's gets the job done, but where's the flair? Where's the panache? Where's the artistry?? That's what "V" brings. Long live "Rule V"!!

65

Talk Zone / Some insight into the process of FA signings

« on: December 06, 2007, 04:49:52 pm »

Wade on being honest with players upfront, rather than screwing them over later:

I'd rather have a player uncomfortable, upset on the front end rather than to put my arm around him and whisper sweet nothings in his ear and not fulfill the promises going forward.

So it's the reach-around that gets GMs into trouble!

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071206&content_id=2320105&vkey=news_hou&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou

66

Talk Zone / Re: Katsui will wear No. 7

« on: December 04, 2007, 09:36:07 pm »

True, but I think wadesmith expect to still be in the central race/WC mix in August 2008.

Even if it's true, that doesn't mean that they won't be looking for more ways to put asses in seats.

67

Talk Zone / Re: Jeremy Affledt, too pricey?

« on: December 03, 2007, 10:22:24 pm »

Without a doubt.  On the list is a new HD television with the PS3.  No other way to go.

Will you be MY Santa Claus?

68

Talk Zone / Re: WHAT?!

« on: December 03, 2007, 11:37:16 am »

"young" management team?

I took that to mean the "new" management team of Cooper and Wade and a few of their subordinates (i.e. young in terms of current tenture)

69

Talk Zone / Re: Question about Texas HS Football Playoffs (obviously non-bb)

« on: December 03, 2007, 11:29:46 am »

It's naive.  High School football in Texas generates revenue.  And last time I looked, High Schools don't turn down money.

Well, I guess I thought that being on a much smaller scale than pro and college sports that the money wouldn't be big enough to sacrifice the integrity of the playoff system, but I guess that was wrong. I just would think that there would be a way to have a true championship without resorting to some lame division system. But just like the BCS, I guess the decision makers don't think there's a way to make the same money in doing so.

For those that are really invested in HS football, do they see it as lame system too, or does the fandom at large like the current system?

Oh well, back to idle baseball trade speculation...

70

Talk Zone / Re: Round Rock question- heard a rumor

« on: December 03, 2007, 12:21:54 am »

Because it is difficult to disprove something that doesn't exist, I think it's fair to say that her "source" is either seriously flawed or she completely misunderstood what was being said. The Express are one of the most popular and well-attended teams in the minor leagues. If someone were to move a minor league team anywhere, Sugar Land or otherwise, RR would be the last choice. Also, Sugar Land is not the type of community that AAA teams reside in. AAA teams are almost always in unique major metro areas that are not quite large enough to support a major league team. Single A teams are more likely to relocate to the suburbs of a larger metro area (i.e. San Jose, Brooklyn, Dunedin, etc.).

In other words, no.

71

Talk Zone / Re: Question about Texas HS Football Playoffs (obviously non-bb)

« on: December 03, 2007, 12:02:21 am »

To put it quite bluntly:  money.  Football is the main sport that schools can generate revenue in via gate receipts, concessions, etc.  Playoff games generate even more of the same.  The more teams in the playoffs = more money for the schools.

I work at a AAA school, so 3 of the 5 teams in our district made the playoffs.  Interesting note - the Division 1 (big school) team made it to the Regional Finals and the two Division II teams (small school) are playing this coming Friday for their regional title.

Okay, forgive me if this is a bit naive, but money? Really? How much revenue could possibly be generated by gate receipts and concessions? Granted, I'm sure the schools are glad to get it, but are HS football tickets pricey enough to bring in a significant amount of money? And who gets that money since many if not most playoff games are played at neutral sites? If money really is the answer, I would think there would have to be an larger revenue source than just ticket sales and concessions.

72

Talk Zone / Re: Purpura and Wade

« on: December 02, 2007, 11:02:50 pm »

I think it's more obivous in the systematic execution of a plan. I always thought Purpura's problem was that he had too much confidence in the players the Astros already had. He held onto them too long, thinking they would eventually produce the way he hoped. I think at the end of the day, Purpura thought that the available players he could get were not a large enough upgrade over the pieces he already had, and he was often wrong about that. I'm not ready to say yet that Wade is ahead of Purpura yet (the outcome during the season will decide that 100%), but I like seeing what appears to be a systematic purpose in making moves.

73

Talk Zone / Re: Astros getting back to basics

« on: December 02, 2007, 10:06:50 pm »

Getting back to the basics is right. The thing that has bugged me the most over the last couple of seasons generally hasn't been the pitching or hitting; it's been the defense and baserunning. Bonehead mistakes and lack of the basic fundamentals in both areas has been lacking, and I really hope that the personel changes both on the field and on the bench change that.

74

Talk Zone / Question about Texas HS Football Playoffs (obviously non-bb)

« on: December 02, 2007, 09:57:04 pm »

I follow HS football almost as closely as I follow college basketball, which is to say almost none at all, but I got bored today and decided to check up on the season and see how things were playing out, knowing that they're fairly deep into the playoffs.

First of all, I was VERY impressed by the Lackey Chron's coverage of HS Football. I had no idea how extensive it was until today. Their baseball writers might suck ass, but whoever's running the HS web stuff is doing a great job.

Second, it bugs me that the two-tiered playoff system creates 2 state champions at each level. I know how they divide the divisions for the playoffs (school attendance), but I can't figure out why. I understand that adding another level of playoffs to crown a "true" state champ would put said championship game on the weekend of Christmas, which might or might not be the reason for not doing it. But if that's so, why include so many teams in the playoffs in the first place?

The two districts I checked out in a little depth, District 21-5A (because I grew up in Baytown) and District 24-5A (because I now live in Clear Lake), both sent a 3-8 team to the playoffs (Kingwood and Clear Brook respectively, both by virtue of winning tie breakers). To me, that screams too many teams in the playoffs. Not every 8-team district needs to send 4 teams to the playoffs. If they knocked out half of those teams from making the postseason in the first place, there wouldn't seem to be a need for the two-tiered playoff system.

So what am I missing? Those of you who follow this stuff more regularly, why the two postseason divisions at each level, and why do so many teams from each district make the playoffs?

75

Talk Zone / Re: WHAT?!

« on: December 02, 2007, 09:33:42 pm »

Baltimore is a mess, they aren't trading Bedard. 

Probably not, but seeing his name on various bogus "rumor mills" got my mind to wandering. A guy can wish...

76

Talk Zone / Re: Meanwhile, Chris Burke

« on: December 02, 2007, 09:31:23 pm »

In the same article, I saw this quote from Wade:

Willy Taveras had talked to Kaz about Houston and was encouraging him to look into our situation

It's not often that you hear about one player "encouraging" a teammate to essentially sign with the team that traded the first player.

77

Talk Zone / Re: WHAT?!

« on: December 02, 2007, 09:28:42 pm »

I can't help but hope, though, that the Astros might be able to turn the negotiations towards Eric Bedard. He's the Orioles that I assume that the Astros covet the most, although I doubt they can put together the kind of package that Baltimore would want. (Burke, Scott, and a prospect or two probably won't cut it because I don't think we'd give up the kind of propects they'd want, although I'd be thrilled if it did.)

78

Talk Zone / Re: Lidge a Phillie

« on: November 08, 2007, 07:47:08 am »

I don't think we should worry about the BP just yet. The offseason is still very young. There's no reason to believe it will stay as-is, especially since they just traded away one of the prime components. I'd be very surprised if more BP moves, perhaps of some major significance, don't come along before February.

79

Game Zone 2007 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros - 05/18/07

« on: May 18, 2007, 10:00:41 pm »

Small consolation: Sammy the Hippy-Hoppy Clown hasn't done anything tonight.

Didn't he have a 2-run double or something like that?

80

Game Zone 2007 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros - 05/18/07

« on: May 18, 2007, 09:58:55 pm »

Wow. Whoever's doing this is obviously getting bolder and bolder. What will it take for Milo to wake up and realize it's a joke? Elvis Presley? Hell, he may not remember who's dead and who's not.

Spiderman is here everybody! Has a big web of friends here at the ball park tonight!

Is there a running list of these on OWA? If not, there should be.

81

Game Zone 2007 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros - 05/18/07

« on: May 18, 2007, 09:45:46 pm »

Milo annoucing groups: "George Costanza and Friends. It doesn't say how large the groups are, but knowing George, it's probably a big group."

I love these. I don't know who's doing it to Milo, but someone should buy him/her a beer.

82

Talk Zone / Re: Garner's postgame

« on: May 18, 2007, 01:49:24 pm »

from jjo...
"When asked why he would pitch to the veteran Winn, who had hit all his pitchers well that day and broken up Roy Oswalt's no-hitter, Garner said it was because he wanted to lose it in the 12th. He reacted to the question as though no fan or media person could have wondered. Although he wasn't serious, the move cost him the game. Garner wasn't the entire reason they lost, but he shared blame in this one. JJO)"

What irritates me about that crap, aside from the fact that the Astros made many mistakes that may have ultimately cost them the game, is that JJO and others ask why Garner decided to pitch to Winn without considering his other options. If he puts Winn on, then Lewis is up with 2 on. He's been hot lately (.393 avg). What's to say he wouldn't have put them ahead, perhaps by 2 or 3 runs? Or perhaps you load the bases for Klesko? I definitely don't see that as a better option than simply pitching to Winn. JJO is just being ridiculous and ignorant as always.

83

Talk Zone / Re: Act like you've been there before...

« on: May 17, 2007, 04:03:08 pm »

Not me. 

Or maybe we should define "legit."  The Brewers are a "legit" 82-80 team.

By legit, I mean that I expect them to still be within eyeshot of 1st at least into August. I don't think 85-88 wins is unreasonable for them, maybe more if they really put it together.

84

Talk Zone / Re: Act like you've been there before...

« on: May 17, 2007, 03:56:25 pm »

for real...i am sure the Reds had the same delusional thoughts last year--until they figured out they didnt have a bullpen, Adam Dunn got back to working on his Jose Hernandez imitation, they overpaid for bullpen help, and still found out they didnt have a bullpen. 

Maybe, but I think the Brewers are much more legit than the 2006 Reds.

85

Talk Zone / Re: A Third Baseman that is available

« on: May 17, 2007, 03:44:30 pm »

no, not to the Cardinals.

never Loretta.

And while were taking a step back for a minute, does anyone think that the Co-ards would send Rolen to the Astros? I know Noe suggested a 3-way, but still, I don't see the Jakes making a deal they think might help the Astros get Rolen, regardless of how much he may have worn out his welcome with them.

ETA: The only exception being if they think he's COMPLETELY done from a productivity standpoint, in which case the Astros probably don't want him anyway.

86

Talk Zone / Re: Villone Sighting

« on: May 17, 2007, 12:55:14 am »

Randolph should be in Houston.

As we know, the Astros play the if-it-ain't-broke-don't-fix-it card regarding mid-season callups. The BP has been very good of late, so I assume that's the only reason he's not here. There's simply no corresponding roster move that would justify to bring him up right now.

87

Talk Zone / Re: Sampson Tomorrow

« on: May 16, 2007, 12:03:51 am »

I was wondering why Albers instead of Sampson. Any reason given other than common sense?

88

Talk Zone / Re: I'm obsessed with this because it's important to me

« on: May 08, 2007, 05:06:59 pm »

many parents are WAAAAAAY too involved.

You can never be too involved as a parent. Involvement is not the same as being overbearing, pushy, controlling or demanding.

I don't know how this applies to black players in baseball, but I'm always for encouraging parents being more involved in the lives of their kids.

89

Talk Zone / Re: Anyone at NASA...

« on: April 20, 2007, 11:32:26 pm »

The diapers astronaut, Andrea Yates' husband, there are always some bad things happening at NASA.

As a therapist living and working in Clear Lake and working with some in the NASA population, I'd have to agree that there is something odd going on. I don't know if it's a systemic problem or a bunch of isolated incidents, but my anecdotal evidence makes me think it might be systemic.

90

Talk Zone / Re: astros jelling like a fellon

« on: April 20, 2007, 01:07:35 pm »

Did you forget, still waiting for Lee to seperate his shoulder running into the wall in Left, Big Puma rupters his hammy legging out a triple, and Roy trips in the shower and breaks all the fingers in his right hand. Oh and not to mention the plane crash.

I realize how it sounds. I guess I just don't want to get my hopes up too high. If the Astros continue to play well as a team and win games, I know I'll start feeling more optimistic.. This is definitely exciting, and I'm thrilled. I'm just apprehensive about expecting this level of play for more than a couple of weeks.

I really think this weekend in Milwaukee will be a very good test. They too are a much improved team playing well right now. If the Astros can win 2 of 3, I think that will a big step forward for this team.

91

Talk Zone / Re: I Just Got a PM from Jeter, Ortiz and Ripkin

« on: April 19, 2007, 10:55:39 pm »

god, i hate the yankmees and red sux, and with the sux, it's all the media's fault.

92

Talk Zone / Re: Astros early season road record...

« on: April 19, 2007, 10:51:59 pm »

For example the past 2 nights have found late rallies in the 8th inning.

Exactly, and let's not discount the contributions of the Reds' bully. Despite being lights out over the first 2 weeks of the season, they were throwing junk in the two games they faced the Astros. Houston simply did a good job of capitalizing, which is what good teams should do, but still it wasn't all the Astros' doing.

To answer the question, though, Lee has already proven himself to be a huge addition to this offense.

93

Talk Zone / Re: astros jelling like a fellon

« on: April 19, 2007, 10:42:26 pm »

I'm still nervous. Maybe it's because no season has actually been easy for the Astros. The rotation still has some serious hurdles to overcome (i.e. Woody's high ERA in the early going, Jennings on the DL, waiting for the bottom to drop out on Sampson and Wandy), and the offense certainly has a tendency to be collectively streaky. No doubt, they've played well over the last 1.5 weeks, but I've been  burned by feeling good about teams in April, and it's too soon for me to start feeling "good" about the team. But it is a good sign.

94

Talk Zone / Re: Dick Justice, a squirrel, and a blind nut.

« on: April 19, 2007, 03:40:24 pm »

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2497723

Allrighty then. that would do it.

95

Talk Zone / Re: Dick Justice, a squirrel, and a blind nut.

« on: April 19, 2007, 03:37:20 pm »

"Stephen Hunter" is an idiot.  Anyone who knows a) Myers' history, and b) The personal standards Drayton has set for the organization, would never even have such a trade proposition cross their mind.  Don't give Dicko too much credit for calling him out on that one.

I can't say that I've ever longed for Myers in an Astros uni, but why would he "never, ever, ever, ever pitch for the Houston Astros"? I guess I'm unfamilar with (a).

Again, it's not like I particularly care for him. That just seemed like a pretty emphatic statement potentially with an unstated, accompanying story that I'm unfamiliar with.

96

Game Zone 2007 Archive / Re: Astros@Phillies - Friday 4/13

« on: April 13, 2007, 07:42:03 pm »

It's bizarre to see Roy struggle with his control like this.

Although I can't see him, I have to think it's largely the weather, at least I hope it is.

97

Game Zone 2007 Archive / Re: Astros@Phillies - Friday 4/13

« on: April 13, 2007, 07:35:49 pm »

and they checked their arms at the gate.

Not to discount the Astros' offense tonight, but cold, nasty weather tends to favor hitters. Meyers seems to have been affected more than Roy, though Roy doesn't seem as sharp as usual, simply judging from the pbp.

98

Game Zone 2007 Archive / Re: Astros@Phillies - Friday 4/13

« on: April 13, 2007, 07:22:58 pm »

For those of us not privy to the moving pictures, what's the weather look like in Philly? Is it bad enough that they may not get 9 innings in?

99

Talk Zone / Re: Offday, NON BB, TV RANT

« on: April 12, 2007, 04:02:01 pm »

I know I don't have to shop for a big family, but I love me some Trader Joe's.  Do they have them in Texas yet?

No, the closest Trader Joe's is in Santa Fe, NM, if you call that close. I, for one, really miss it. We used to go to the one in Ann Arbor, MI when we lived in Lansing. Two Buck Chuck alone was worth the trip. Their organic selection was really good too.

Now, we usually shop at HEB and occasionally Super Target, which I prefer.

100

Talk Zone / Re: Offday, NON BB, TV RANT

« on: April 12, 2007, 11:54:25 am »

Arrested Development kicked ass. They show repeats on Saturday nights on G-4. Still cracks me up!

Arrested Development was one of the best comedies ever (yeah, I said it). It's demise was VERY untimely. It's the only TV show DVDs I've ever bought.

"Buster: Make love in your own hand, Mother!"

Beautiful.

101

Talk Zone / Re: Offday, NON BB, TV RANT

« on: April 12, 2007, 09:31:07 am »

How do you watch the Astros?  Oh, unless your blind then I'm sorry.

I have a TV, but no cable or dish, so I only see Astros in person, on KNWS, or on FOX Saturdays. Otherwise, it's all radio for me. Other than Astros baseball, I know I'm not missing much.

BTW, I don't think I've posted since sometime last summer. As if anyone cares, since then, I finished my PhD at Michigan State, moved back to Houston (Clear Lake) from Michigan, and broke my leg badly in a roller hockey mishap, now recovering well. I've been reading a lot during my absense, but just never had time/motivation to post, for some reason. Anyway, see you all around. I should be at a few more games at MMP than in past years. I might even make it to a few Bay Area Toros games.

ETA: TV watching in my house has been SIGNIFICANTLY reduced since we instituted the rule that the TV doesn't come on until the kids are in bed (around 8:30). We still watch The Office and 30 Rock when we can, and we get The Daily Show from iTunes, but I watch little else. It's really given me a lot of time for other things, and most TV is crap anyway, so I don't mind. I never saw The Black Donnelly's, but the commercials made it look really cheesey. Maybe it wasn't, but I was never interested in giving it a chance. My condolences on your loss.

102

Talk Zone / Hopefully, a sign of good things to come

« on: August 10, 2006, 12:21:27 am »

 

Quote:
Earlier in the day, Garber (Oswalt's agent), Purpura and McLane gathered for preliminary talks regarding a possible long-term contract for the right-hander. Hours later, Oswalt let his arm -- and his bat -- do the talking.

 The Link

103

Talk Zone / Re: Who We'll Be Rooting For Tonight

« on: August 03, 2006, 03:13:58 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Until they put together a better run and climb closer to the leaders, I'm not ready to jump back on the wagon, but I will be listening to the game this afternoon.

Either you're on the wagon, or you're not.

I'm on the Astros wagon. Always have been and always will be. I'm not rady to jump on the wagon, however, that says that they will now make a historic turnaound and make the playoffs.

104

Talk Zone / Re: Another Stros problem

« on: August 03, 2006, 12:48:58 pm »

Quote:
Ok, but you do understand that before you can jump the team 7 places ahead of you, you have to just the other 6 teams individually first, right?  You don't magically jump 4 teams because the team 7 places ahead of you lost.

Sure, but I don't care about those teams until one of them overtakes the leader. I just want the Astros to win and StL/Cin to lose. If Arizona or another team overtakes Cin, then I will want Arizona to lose, until then they are irrelevant to me.

105

Talk Zone / Re: Another Stros problem

« on: August 03, 2006, 11:24:52 am »

Admittedly, my sarcasm meter is very weak when online when I don't know the person very well, but given the way many people worship the HR, I didn't think it unreasonable to think someone would post that.

And about the standings thing, I stand by my post. At the end of the season, it doesn't matter if there are 10 teams ahead of the Astros or only one. If they aren't in first, I want the team in first to lose. No other team matters.

106

Talk Zone / Re: Another Stros problem

« on: August 03, 2006, 11:13:31 am »

Quote:

Quote:
Not familiar with "sarcasm" yet?

Did you really think chuck was suggesting that Biggio is in the lineup to hit HRs on the road?

He wasn't?

ditto

107

Talk Zone / Re: Another Stros problem

« on: August 03, 2006, 11:01:37 am »

Quote:
First time at OrangeWhoopass?

No. You?

108

Talk Zone / Re: Another Stros problem

« on: August 03, 2006, 10:49:55 am »

Quote:
I'm hoping Garner sits Biggio today because there's no way he'll hit another home run for weeks.

Day game after a night game makes it pretty likely that Biggio will sit, but Biggio usually isn't in the lineup to hit HRs, especially on the road.

109

Talk Zone / Re: Another Stros problem

« on: August 03, 2006, 10:46:28 am »

You make at least 2 faulty assumptions:
1. You assume that the manager makes ALL of the calls. Sometimes a player does something on their own. Sometimes even when the manager makes the call, the player does not execute (as I think has been the case much of the time this season).
2. You assume that if Garner had made the "correct" move, the outcome would have been better. Regardless of what the manager calls for, the players must execute, which they have not done for most of the season. Also, I LOVE that Garner is not afraid to do odd things to find what works. The offense has been underperforming big time, and Garner is trying to find something that works. That often means making unconventional moves, many of which will not work. But until the hitters start producing, there's not a whole lot he can do from the bench.

Personally, I think Garner is a great manager. The only reason he is getting so much criticism is because the team isn't doing well, but it's not because of Garner.

110

Talk Zone / Re: Who We'll Be Rooting For Tonight

« on: August 03, 2006, 10:19:40 am »

Quote:

Quote:
Actually, .500 ball should be the target.

Then we can discuss whoever is in the wild card lead at that time. I'd love to see the 'Stros string together 6 wins right now.

Amen.

.500 is my target. I would then like to see if the Astros can get back to that all time winning record. Once they are there, I want to see where the rest of the league is at. Right now, winning is the key. Forget the other teams and see what each game brings.

The Astros won. Both the 3rdnals and Reds lost. The Astros are now 7.5 out of the division and 4 out of the WC. That's all that matters.

That said, the Astros have done this all season. They'll play like shit for a few weeks, and then they have a few games where they play good ball, even with some dramatic wins at times. They give us all reason to believe that they'll turn it around. We all come into the TZ and say, "This could be the turning point of the season." Then the Astros go on another pathetic run. Ugh. Until they put together a better run and climb closer to the leaders, I'm not ready to jump back on the wagon, but I will be listening to the game this afternoon.

111

Talk Zone / Re: Who We'll Be Rooting For Tonight

« on: August 02, 2006, 05:04:16 pm »

Quote:
Why?  You have to jump each team individually anyway.  Why not get the low-hanging fruit out of the way?  If Cinci loses, but all the teams in front of us keep winning, we're just chasing a NEW wild card leader.  Who cares what team is in front, if it's not us?

If your team is not in first, you should always root for the team in first to lose. If/When they fall out of first, then the new team is the target. So, I'm going to continuously root for Cincy to lose until they aren't the wild card leaders anymore. When Arizona, or whoever, overtakes them, I'll root against that team. It doesn't matter who's in front of the Astros or how many teams are in front of them. If the Astros aren't in the lead, I want the team that is in the lead to go down, regardless of which team that may be on a given day.

There was a series earlier in the year played by I think Mil and Cin, who at the time were separated by 1/2 game in the standings. I rooted for one team one night and the other team the next night, only because they flip-flopped in the standings. If teams do that, and the Astros find ways to win some games, it's a lot easier to move to the top.

112

Talk Zone / Re: Justice on 610

« on: August 02, 2006, 11:43:05 am »

Quote:

Why is it so hard to believe Justice didn't just make it up?
Why is it so hard to believe McLane has nothing to deny?
Why is it so hard to believe Lidge is still on the team because there were no trades worth making?
Personally, I think the two jackasses at the Chron wanted to stir up a pot of shit and they did.

Exactly. The point is that Oswalt, Lidge, Everett, Ensberg, and everyone else is still on the team. Of course things can still happen if they pass through waivers, but this is our team.

I think the main priority now becomes signing Oswalt past 2007, which may have already been the main priority. Look to upgrade the offense in the off season, but get Oswalt on board ASAP.

113

Talk Zone / Re: So Backe starts tonight?

« on: August 02, 2006, 11:37:36 am »

from the preview of tonight's game on  Astros.com:

Quote:
Up next
? Thursday: Houston (RHP Matt Albers, 0-0, 0.00) at San Diego (RHP Clay Hensley, 6-8, 4.46), 2:05 p.m. CT
? Friday: Houston (RHP Roy Oswalt, 8-7, 3.23) at Arizona (RHP Miguel Batista, 9-5, 4.71), 8:40 p.m. CT
? Saturday: Houston (RHP Roger Clemens, 2-4, 2.09) at Arizona (RHP Brandon Webb, 12-4, 2.74), 8:40 p.m. CT

I would assume that's correct until we hear otherwise.

114

Talk Zone / Re: Just hypothetically

« on: July 28, 2006, 12:55:00 pm »

Quote:
It's right there, the article is pointing right at it.

The article mentions Pettitte and Clemens, but not even alluding to a potential trade scenario. It only compares Hughes to each of them for different reasons.

115

Talk Zone / Re: Just hypothetically

« on: July 28, 2006, 12:49:23 pm »

Quote:
I suspect the Astros could, if they were going in that direction, which they aren't.

Do you mean the direction of being sellers? If the Astros were so inclined, who do you think they would be willing to trade that might change the Yankees' minds?

116

Talk Zone / Re: Assuming no trades are made

« on: July 27, 2006, 05:49:31 pm »

Quote:
Just wondering if Pettitte or Huff would qualify as Class A FAs this offseason, thus allowing the Astros to get 1st round picks for them should someone else sign them?

And based on the new Pravata posted about Rosenblog's comments, makes me wonder if he meant the 25 or 40 man roster.

I think they would both be Class A, although I suspect the Astros will have a good chance of re-signing both of them.

[seems]

117

Talk Zone / Re: RE: Recap and tonight's game

« on: July 26, 2006, 03:14:18 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:
What makes it less real is the fact that you just made this up entirely.  They don't enjoy playing together?  A group of individuals?  Huh?

I was referring to the concept of "chemistry" on teams as being real, not my assessment of the Astros. I readily claim that I don't know the tenor of their clubhouse, and it only  seems that they lack chemistry. I was only speculating on that and didn't mean to imply certainty.

Okay.  That's not what you typed, but fair enough.

Well, that's what I meant. It's sometimes easier to type something quick rather than accurate, even though it's more ripe to be misunderstood.

[seems]

118

Talk Zone / Re: RE: Recap and tonight's game

« on: July 26, 2006, 03:00:42 pm »

Quote:
What makes it less real is the fact that you just made this up entirely.  They don't enjoy playing together?  A group of individuals?  Huh?

I was referring to the concept of "chemistry" on teams as being real, not my assessment of the Astros. I readily claim that I don't know the tenor of their clubhouse, and it only  seems that they lack chemistry. I was only speculating on that and didn't mean to imply certainty.

119

Talk Zone / Re: Colorado a joke no longer?

« on: July 26, 2006, 02:56:17 pm »

Quote:
Here the statistics compiled by the Rockies and their opponents at Coors and elsewhere this year:

Split       R/G   Avg   OBP   Slg   OPS   HR%
---------------------------------------------
Coors      4.71  .271  .342  .428  .770  2.73
Elsewhere  4.59  .266  .338  .419  .757  2.49
---------------------------------------------
Factor      103   102   101   102   102   110

The park factors for Coors this year are 11th in runs per game, 10th in batting average, 11th in OBP, 12th in slugging percentage, 11th in OPS and 11th in home runs per 100 at-bats among all MLB parks this season.

Given that Coors usually ranks far and way first in most if not all of these categories, the difference this year is phenomenal.

Wow. That is incredible. Can the humidor accountfor all of that, or have they made other changes at Coors that has effected the play?

120

Talk Zone / Re: RE: Recap and tonight's game

« on: July 26, 2006, 02:52:16 pm »

Quote:
chemistry is bs. that comes from winning. no team that is losing has chemistry.

It's easier to play the game (or do anything, for that matter) when you enjoy the people you're working with. Of course, I don't know what goes on in their clubhouse, but they just don't seem to enjoy playing together. I'm not saying that's the only problem, but it certainly does not help. They're a group of individuals, rather than a team. That's chemistry (or lack thereof).

It may seem amorphous and unscientific, but that doesn't make it less real.

121

Talk Zone / Re: Colorado a joke no longer?

« on: July 26, 2006, 02:44:30 pm »

Guess which pitching staff has allowed the fewest runs in the NL and 3rd fewest in all of baseball this season:  the Rockies.

I don't think they'll win the NL this season (although it's not out of the question), but I'm glad to see that pitchers can actually do well in Colorado, at least for 4 months.

122

Talk Zone / Re: What I would do (as if anyone cares)

« on: July 26, 2006, 12:18:52 pm »

Quote:
Yankees might want Wilson if they have no other options at the deadline.

They are certainly a club known to make a few desparation moves in the past. Does anyone know their system well enough to make a guess about who the Astros could get?

123

Talk Zone / Re: RE: Recap and tonight's game

« on: July 26, 2006, 12:15:17 pm »

Quote:
The pathetic thing is that I still can't rule out the playoffs, since the NL stinks like week-old diapers, but the 2006 Astros are not a good team.

The funny thing is that the individual players are probably a little better than 2005, but as has been said, there is no chemistry, and they simply don't appear to be playing as a team. In the 2004, 2005, and prior seasons, the whole really was more than the sum of its parts. Not so much this season. It just looks like a team of individuals. I'll be interested to see if the brass feel the same way, as will probably be indicated by off-season trades and signings or the lack thereof.

124

Talk Zone / Re: What I would do (as if anyone cares)

« on: July 26, 2006, 12:11:08 pm »

I wouldn't mind the Wilson and Lamb deals, but I don't think you bring up Hirsh or Pence right now. I think Purpura made a good point about allowing them to keep doing what they're doing right now and give them each a chance to make the club in 2007. If you have to promote another starting pitcher this year, I think Sampson earned another shot. I'd promote him over Hirsh.

["Houston has been rumored to offer starting short stop Adam Everett along with right-handed prospects Fernando Nieve, Jason Hirsh and outfielder Hunter Pence for Tejada."]

125

Talk Zone / Re: Dumbest Tejada-to-Astros Trade Suggestion of the Day?

« on: July 25, 2006, 02:34:19 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
"Houston has been rumored to offer starting short stop Adam Everett along with right-handed prospects Fernando Nieve, Jason Hirsh and outfielder Hunter Pence for Tejada."

Uhhh.  Right.  If that was the offer, I have a feeling Tejada would be in blood'n'mud tomorrow night.

As far as expectations in a prospect goes, that's more than they gave up to get the Unit.

The big difference in my mind was that the Astros were a much more complete team that year. Everyone thought Johnson was the one piece they needed to win a championship, and he may have been, were it not for a wierd and unexpected series with San Diego.

I don't think anyone would pick the Astros as the favorite to win it all with the pickup of Tejada. They'd need to make a few other moves too, which probably won't happen anyway.

126

Talk Zone / Re: The Dome

« on: July 25, 2006, 02:21:54 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
The Link

This idea reminds me of the Opryland Hotel is Nashville, TN.  It is indoors and has boat rides, food, shops, etc.

There's a reason for that. It's being done by  Gaylord Hotels, the same group that operates the Opryland Hotel and the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, TX.

[If]

127

Talk Zone / Re: What trades for relievers are looking like

« on: July 25, 2006, 02:03:59 pm »

Quote:
Here's one from Phil Rogers (of the Polly Pretty Pants Rogers) He quotes Steve Phillips on Alex Rodriguez

"When that happens  (booing) in New York, it doesn't stop. Now you see it's impacting his performance. Ultimately I don't see how he gets out of this rut. I think they have to trade him."... If the Yankees let it be known they would move Rodriguez,... (the Cubs could offer) Aramis Ramirez and Jacque JonesThe Link

So from booing in NY, to a trade for Errormiss, because he never wings a throw and isn't affected by outside pressure.  But viola, it's now at MLB Trade Rumors, The Link which is where Pinwheel picked up the Tejada trade and the circle is complete.

A few years ago (late 1990s or so), it seemed that the ESPN Rumors were a bit more credible. They didn't post new stuff everyday. They just reported what they heard from credible sources. Maybe I'm looking back with rose-colored glasses, but now it seems that ANY mention of a trade by Joe Blogger is considered worthy to list as a legit trade rumor. Maybe I should post on my blog that the Astros and Orioles are in serious negotiations to send Tejada, Bedard, and cash to the Astros for Wandy, Lane, Everett, and Nathan Warrick. I guarantee that it would appear on ESPN by tomorrow morning. WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!

Give me a freaking break.

128

Talk Zone / Re: Harold Reynolds fired by ESPN

« on: July 25, 2006, 01:52:12 pm »

Quote:
Yeah, maybe what he did will come out in the wash.  Sure sucks though.  Maybe he can find a place with XM.

Since I don't have ESPN but I do have XM, I'd like that. Really, though, Harold is too good looking for radio. He needs to be seen. Charlie Steiner is perfect for XM, and I really enjoy his show.

129

Talk Zone / Re: Astros shopping Preston?

« on: July 24, 2006, 06:25:35 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
RBIs are far more important than home runs, at least they are in my little world.

Isn't the nice thing about a home run that it always results in an RBI, regardless of what your teammates do?

Yes, which precisely why I too prefer RBI. Because it includes the homeruns and the runs driven in by other means as well. Since the object of the game is to score the most runs, RBI seems more important to me. It doesn't matter how they're driven in, as long as they are driven in.

130

Talk Zone / Re: Question about Minors Discussion Forum

« on: July 24, 2006, 05:13:31 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Is there a reason why the Minors Discussion Forum does not allow new posts from non-moderators? It seems to me that it has really become a true discussion forum, similar to the TZ, and the current format of one open post at a time with MANY replies has become a bit cumbersome.

So how 'bout it, admins? Any chance of making the MDF format more of a TZ - Minors Edition?

I hadn't thought about us being that busy.  We surely don't get the traffic that the TZ does.  Nowhere close.  

One of the reasons we went with the current format was to keep content contained.  We were afraid that a post would not get a reply and quickly get shoved out of the viewable window.  Also, when a question is asked, it can take days or a week or more to get a good answer.  Finding that post to give a reply isn't always easy.  We also didn't think posters would be interested in a TZ style forum, as the TZ already exists, and that we thought we'd get mostly questions rather than extended thread chats.

I'd like to know how much interest there is in a TZ style format beyond just the two of you.  I'll start with posting a poll in MDR and your MDR hosts will discuss changes.

Let me say, too, I cannot adequately express my gratitude that so many have expressed their appreciation for the MDR forum and the other minors forums.  We feel like we have a good thing going and want it to be as user friendly as possible.

Sure. The MDF may not get near the traffic, but in my mind, that might be all the more reason for a TZ format. If Joe Poster only visits the MDF once out of every 3-4 times he visits the site, then he may get lost (as I do) in the multidues of replies. Whereas, if there were multiple topics, I could look down the list of topics and only read the ones I'm interested in, just as I do with the TZ, rather than wade through the stuff I'm not interested in. Also, I think there would probably be a bit more actual discussion with a different format. Not as much as the TZ, of course, but a fair amount.

I see your point, though, about some posts getting "bumped" off the page quickly without getting a reply. I hadn't thought about that.

And let me add to the pile of gratitude that the OWA minors forums here have gotten. You guys certainly deserve it, and then some. This is always the first place I look for ANY information regarding the Astros below the major league level. Great stuff.

131

Talk Zone / Question about Minors Discussion Forum

« on: July 24, 2006, 04:01:14 pm »

Is there a reason why the Minors Discussion Forum does not allow new posts from non-moderators? It seems to me that it has really become a true discussion forum, similar to the TZ, and the current format of one open post at a time with MANY replies has become a bit cumbersome.

So how 'bout it, admins? Any chance of making the MDF format more of a TZ - Minors Edition?

132

Talk Zone / Re: The Mets

« on: July 24, 2006, 03:23:40 pm »

Quote:
Boy- the Stems looked like shit in a way Sunday that I rarely remember the astros ever looking. They looked like they just flat out didn't care.  Half assed it all the way around the ballpark.  Outfielders taking lazy routes to flyballs, barehanding hits, the chris burke infield hit etc.  This team plays hard- you can say that for them.  Lately that is about all that you can say, but very jarring to see the contrast on sunday with the best team in the National League.

This is the time of the season when those teams who are running away with the division sometimes unintentionally begin to slack off. The problem will come if they continue that way into the postseason. It could be an early exit, reminiscent of many early division winners of the recent past, if they don't get that sense of urgency back.

133

Talk Zone / Re: happy happy sunday win

« on: July 24, 2006, 03:19:08 pm »

Quote:
Don't forget that I broke my personal losing streak at Shea.  And it was nice taking the kids to an Astros win, particularly given the fact that there were hardly any other people at Shea wearing Astros stuff.

My wife grew up on Long Island. While we were dating, I went with her to an Astros/steM game at Shea in 1997, dressed in full Astros stuff. Someone there insulted me for being an Astros fan (I don't remember what they said; I think it was some stupid Jetsons reference.). My wife, then girlfriend, was so offended by it, that she disavowed the thin strands of loyalty she had to the steM. She's been an Astros fan ever since.

On a side note, that game was memorable in part because we ended up sitting in a section full of people who had gotten comp tickets from Astros players. We sat with some of Jose Cruz's family members, Jose Lima's cousins (they were fun), some friends of Tim Bogar, and some of Biggio's friends.

134

Talk Zone / Re: The Dome

« on: July 24, 2006, 01:57:40 pm »

Remind me again why they haven't just flatten the dome?

I'm just as nostalgic as the next guy, and at first I was really hoping someone would find another use for the dome, but I can't imagine it functioning well as anything other than a sports venue. Since there are now other, better options for sports in Houston now, it can't really work well as sports venue. It was the first indoor baseball stadium, but aside from that, there's no real historic value. If they really want to build a conference hotel on the site, I would guess that starting from scratch would be cheaper than renovating in this case.

135

Talk Zone / Re: Whose is this?

« on: July 20, 2006, 05:38:30 pm »

Quote:
In other words not only are Pinwheel's columns idiotic but the self-referential device is utterly unoriginal.

Of course it's unoriginal. Hacks have been using it for years. Although I'm unfamiliar with Rasberry, I doubt he originated the idea either.

136

Talk Zone / Re: WTF Happened?

« on: July 19, 2006, 10:00:49 am »

Quote:

Quote:
Nearest you can get in the NL is the Dodgers who have a staff-combined .280 .353 .426.  Amazingly, almost half the AL has team pitching that as bad or worse than the Dodgers.

Here?s an interesting comparison. Usually, you?d expect AL pitchers to have worse numbers, since AL pitchers have to face the DH, while NL pitchers get to face their counterparts. But this year, AL pitchers are outperforming NL pitchers:

Line                     Avg   OBP   Slg
---------------------------------------- 
Allowed by AL Pitchers  .269  .334  .428
Allowed by NL Pitchers  .269  .340  .432

This is particularly counterintuitive when you compare AL designated hitters to NL pitchers and see the significant additional difficulty AL pitchers have to face:

Line                     Avg   OBP   Slg
----------------------------------------
AL Designated Hitters   .260  .344  .458
NL Pitchers             .133  .169  .176

But here?s probably what explains why AL pitchers look better than NL pitchers this year. Check out the interleague play results:

Line                         Avg   OBP   Slg
--------------------------------------------
AL Pitchers vs. NL Hitters  .251  .305  .351
NL Pitchers vs. AL Hitters  .275  .335  .398

When you throw out interleague play, this is what you get:

Line                         Avg   OBP   Slg
--------------------------------------------
AL Pitchers vs. AL Hitters  .270  .331  .416
NL Pitchers vs. NL Hitters  .265  .329  .414

Still, that?s not a huge difference. Especially given that AL position players (excluding DH or pitchers) and NL position players (excluding DH or pitchers) are hitting about the same overall:

Line                  Avg   OBP   Slg
--------------------------------------
NL Position Players  .274  .339  .434
AL Position Players  .276  .336  .429

Good analysis, and I agree with your conclusions, but I always hate seeing the DH compared to hitting pithers because many of those DHs would be in the lineup even if there was no DH. For instance, Boston and Chicago would find a spot on the field for David Ortiz and Jim Thome if there was no DH, meaning that it would the light-hitting 2B/SS/3B/whatever that lost the ABs after the lineups were shuffled, not the batter currently filling the DH role.

To get an accurate comparison, you would have to compare the stats of hitting pitchers to the stats of the player that would be bumped from the lineup if there was no DH, because many times that would not be the DH. Of course, that's nearly impossible to determine beyond an educated guess.

137

Talk Zone / Re: ESPN Quiz

« on: July 13, 2006, 11:29:33 pm »

Quote:
32 right.  Hard questions for sure (well some of them).  I hate trick questions though, like the Abner Doubleday question.  At least I think it's a trick question.

I got 29 right, including the Doubleday question, but only because I recently visited the traveling "Baseball As America" Hall of Fame exhibit in Detroit. They had a lot of memorabelia, including the famous "Doubleday baseball". Yhe accompanying plague helped inform that question.

By the way, if any of you are in cities visited by  the exhibit, I would highly recomend it. They have some really cool stuff there.

138

Talk Zone / Re: 106 million dollar team

« on: July 13, 2006, 05:54:56 pm »

Quote:
In fact, the Bobby Bonilla's salary is  still on the Mets' payroll.

I could be wrong, but I think this is the first year since he retired that Albert Belle isn't on Baltimore's payroll.

139

Talk Zone / Re: Huff speaks

« on: July 13, 2006, 05:36:53 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:
Huff's numbers look horrible

Be careful how you read Huff's stats for this season. He was injured earlier this season, and he took a little while to warm up after coming off the DL. Since June 1, he's been doing very well. I don't have the break down of runners on in that time, but there is  this:

 

Umm, I think Arky's numbers on him are career, at least that is what I was looking for.

You're right. I read them wrong. Still, other than with the bases loaded, his career numbers with runners on is what's important, and it's not bad. I'll take it.

140

Talk Zone / Re: The Reds Making Moves

« on: July 13, 2006, 05:30:47 pm »

Wow. Big trade, but I'm not sure how much it helps the Reds. Gary Majewski is a good pick up, but I struggle to see how the rest of the deal helps. Clayton is a downgrade from Lopez.

141

Talk Zone / Re: Crowded pen

« on: July 13, 2006, 04:37:34 pm »

Quote:
I'd like to get more regular action as well, but I'm married.

Statistics show that married men get more action than single men anyway, despite what pop culture would lead us to believe, so you might not be that far off the pace.

142

Talk Zone / Re: Crowded pen

« on: July 13, 2006, 04:35:13 pm »

Quote:
To date, there is absolutely no justification, beyond ignorance, to assume or assert that any current Astros player or pitcher is suffering "mental" issues.  Rick Ankiel had "mental" issues.  Milton Bradley has "mental" issues, although entirely non-baseball related.  Everything that has gone wrong with the Astros is due to failure to execute.  They know what they need to do.  They even succeed from time to time.  The nonsense that the Astros failure(s) can be simplified as "mental" problems is beyond stupid.

Exactly, and I certainly don't want to be confused with those who believe otherwise.

143

Talk Zone / Re: Huff speaks

« on: July 13, 2006, 04:24:34 pm »

Quote:
Huff's numbers look horrible

Be careful how you read Huff's stats for this season. He was injured earlier this season, and he took a little while to warm up after coming off the DL. Since June 1, he's been doing very well. I don't have the break down of runners on in that time, but there is  this:

Quote:
Huff's been hot lately, too. He batted .359 (33-for-92) with three home runs and 13 RBIs in June. He's been even better this month with a .389 (14-for-36) mark and three homers in nine games.

144

Talk Zone / Re: 106 million dollar team

« on: July 13, 2006, 04:16:24 pm »

Quote:
Yikes. Knowing the Grocer, someone high-priced could be on the way out. Ensberg?

Is this another claim about Drayton being cheap? If so, I'm tired of that. The Astros may not spend money like it's water (the Evil Empire being the only team that really does that, although the steM are starting to come close), but they do a great job of paying the money when they find the right players to invest in.

145

Talk Zone / Re: Crowded pen

« on: July 13, 2006, 04:12:55 pm »

Quote:
I think the Astros should hire a parrot as an assistant to the GM and train him to sqwauk "Send'm to triple A!" at regular intervals. Because, likely, it doesn't occur to Purpura.  Sure, anything is a possibility.  It's possible that Roy could drag Lidge over to his dozer and hook his brain up to the flywheel and give her a crank.  It could work, it's possible.  Of course, if he really is a mental case, a few weeks sniffing the air in Austin might just set him right.

What?? That's not what I meant at all! All I'm saying is that some time working on his mechanics in the minors wouldn't be the worst thing. I'm not even sure how being sent to AAA would help at all if it was a mental problem. However, using the minor leagues for major leaguers to work through mechanical issues happens all the time, as you know, the most recent example perhaps being Lane's demotion. I didn't even mean to imply that I thought it was the best solution, only that I could see the logic in it.

146

Talk Zone / Re: Crowded pen

« on: July 13, 2006, 03:15:22 pm »

Quote:
Is sending players to triple A the cure for everything?

I only said it was a possibility. It probably can't hurt: he can work with the coaching staff and work in games without his work adversely affecting the big club. That's only if, of course, the brass does not believe that he can help the big club in another way, i.e. set-up or middle relief. It's not a cure-all, but a possibility.

Quote:
The rotation is now,

Roy Oswalt, ... will start tonight's series opener against the Florida Marlins in Miami against Dontrelle Willis.

Roger Clemens will pitch Friday, Andy Pettitte on Saturday and Taylor Buchholz on Sunday. With a day off Monday, Wandy Rodriguez will be skipped.

The Link

In the next rotation, Backe will be off the DL.

Thanks. I hadn't seen that, obviously.

147

Talk Zone / Re: Crowded pen

« on: July 13, 2006, 01:50:58 pm »

Quote:
right now, Lidge, Wheeler, Qualls, Nieve, W.Rodriguez(L), T.Miller(L), Borkowski and Springer.  I have a feeling about the rotation, there may not be enough work for all these guys in the near future.  Could they send away 2?

What do you mean "right now"? Last I looked, Wandy's still in the rotation for another start or two, until Backe comes back.

That said, the Astros will likely acquire another arm for the pen in a trade. Unless one or more current relief pitchers are involved in the deal, I suspect at least 2 will be sent down before the end of the month. Your guess is as good as mine regarding who that might be, though. Lidge is certainly a real possibility so he can work out his stuff in AAA.

148

Talk Zone / Re: Gaetti out, Sean Berry in???

« on: July 13, 2006, 12:05:39 am »

I also found  this interesting.

Quote:
Minor League hitting coordinator Sean Berry, who late Wednesday replaced Gary Gaetti as the Astros' hitting coach, spent much of the first half of the season working on a system that teaches prospects how to take better approaches.

This "system" intrigues me. If nothing else, it shows that he's not just trying to coast on his looks.

149

Talk Zone / Re: Lofts (non-bb)

« on: July 12, 2006, 11:55:03 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Anyone here live or lived in lofts around downtown? Like, the warehouse district, midtown or downtown? If so, drop me a PM, please

Anything inside the loop is considered "downtown" to me.  I liked Houston much better before "midtown" and "lofts". When inside the loop was the cheap option in housing.  Back when there were cool bars where you were afraid to touch the walls  Back before the Pic 'n Pack Icehouse turned into a parking lot.

That sounds much like a tamer yet twisted HD rant from the old days.

150

Talk Zone / Re: Gaetti out, Sean Berry in???

« on: July 12, 2006, 11:48:33 pm »

Quote:
I dont mean to sound like an idiot but, why Berry? Wouldnt you want someone who was a more successfull hitter?

Um, no. That's like saying you would only want an oncologist who had had cancer. He's been a minor league hitting coach and the Astros minor league hitting coordinator. Often the talented practitioners don't always make the best teachers.

151

Talk Zone / Re: 2nd half Ensberg

« on: July 12, 2006, 10:08:17 am »

Quote:
As far as the principals in a deal I'd be fine with moving one of the talented young SP in Nieve, Buchholz, Patton or Hirsh for an impact player above(only one I'd say no is Huff, he should be had for less) and if you are talking about say Cabrera or Andruw or perhaps crawford, another good pitching prospect.  These are guys that can be core parts of this team in the future.  Also maybe teams still like Lane/Taveras/Ensberg, and you also have Pence.  The point is even at 43-46, the Astros are only 3.5 games behind LA in the WC.  

I'm not suggesting to give up the farm for a rent a player, but the idea the Astros shouldn't make a deal because of clemens and pettitte's status next year is ludicrous to me. As bad as they have played they are less than 4 games out of a playoff spot.   They should be looking for bullpen help and a stick.   I guess they could improve the offense internally by getting Burke and Lamb in the same lineup if you move Preston to CF, but I think they have made the determination his knees are better off in a corner outfield spot.  Plus, it severely weakens the bench.  

I don't think you touch Buchholz or Hirsh, and it would have to be a prettty good deal for me to feel that moving Nieve would be justified. I might be okay with Patton, but only because he's still a few years away and not out of A-ball yet.

This is not a "win it now" kind of year. There are too many holes to fill and too many players capable of bouncing back. I think the best the Astros might get in a trade this year is for a good relief pitcher. A big bat isn't out of the question, but it's a long shot. Among other reasons, I don't think many will be available by the deadline. Too many teams are still in contention, so the few who might be available will likely cost an arm and a leg to get.

152

Talk Zone / Re: 2nd half Ensberg

« on: July 12, 2006, 09:58:24 am »

Quote:
Win now, sign free agents later.

Ewww. I don't like the sound of that GM strategy. There is no way they could make the moves to ensure that they "win now". I think you make a few moves that don't break the bank and hope that some of the struggling players turn it around in the second half. I don't think you trade Ensberg, though. He's only one year removed from playing in the AS game himself. He looks terrible now, but that doesn't mean that his days as a good, or perhaps even elite, hitter are over.

153

Talk Zone / Re: Lame showing by astros slugger at ASG HR Derby

« on: July 12, 2006, 09:52:22 am »

Quote:
Dude, click the link...

I did. What's your point?

By the way, when did Jason Bay get fat, grow a beak and green feathers. Speaking of green, David Ortiz must have been sick. He looked terrible.

154

Talk Zone / Re: Trevor Hoffman choked

« on: July 12, 2006, 09:45:54 am »

Quote:
no it's Garner's fault because he didn't make a defensive replacement at third with Scott Rolen.

This made my night....

The Link

Oh Please...

Quote:
I'd just like to thank the NL for officially capping off one of the worst days of my life. I'm seriously contemplating killing myself after today, maybe I'll just go to sleep for a few days and avoid anything crazy.

This kind of rhetoric just angers me. Some people just need to get a freaking life.

155

Talk Zone / Re: Lame showing by astros slugger at ASG HR Derby

« on: July 12, 2006, 09:37:31 am »

It's a home run derby. It's not a competition that really means anything. He didn't do particularly well, but 6th place out of 8 isn't what I'd call "pathetic". Big deal. When's the next Astros' game?

156

Talk Zone / Re: Backe vs Sheets...

« on: July 10, 2006, 03:14:27 pm »

How did Sheets look? His line didn't look good:
3+IP 3ER 3H 3BB 2K

157

Talk Zone / Re: My thoughts after last night/ midseason

« on: July 10, 2006, 03:03:15 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
I think the Astros would welcome a good, dependable arm in the pen almost as much as a solid bat.

His name is Nieve, and he needs some more appearances.

Yeah, whatever happened to that kid? I thought he had potential.

158

Talk Zone / Re: My thoughts after last night/ midseason

« on: July 10, 2006, 02:44:44 pm »

Quote:
A couple reasons why they may not be buyers.  The first is that the team already has a payroll over $100 million.  Another is that Tim Purpura seems to be a "stay the course" kind of guy, and for all intents and purposes, this team should be better than the 2005 version that won the pennant.

Payroll is certainly a concern, but there may be trades out there that don't break the bank, especially in the relief pitching department. I think the Astros would welcome a good, dependable arm in the pen almost as much as a solid bat.

159

Talk Zone / Re: My thoughts after last night/ midseason

« on: July 10, 2006, 01:55:41 pm »

Quote:
2.  Seriously, someone should have beaten the shit out of Munson after the game.  That was inexcusable for a little leaguer, much less a major league professional.

Are you talking about being picked off first? I didn't see it. What part was inexcusable?

Quote:

4.  Anyone who still believes that Lidge's problems were simply "tipping pitches" is not very observant.

Does anyone have a legit theory about what is going on with him, even if that theory is half-baked? Lidge was phenomenal for a couple of years. I don't think he was a fluke. Then he imploded. I don't buy the "Pujols homer shock" theory either.

Quote:
6.  Jason  Lane can't even claim the PR/defensive replacement role.  I would have no problem seeing Scott in his place on the roster.

I agree. I have to think that Lane and a few others are little more than trade bait right now.

Quote:
7.  It was hard to tell where Joe Morgan ended and LaRussa's ass began.

This is news?

Quote:
8.  As beautiful as the proposed Lane/Lidge/Everett for Tejada deal would have looked at this point - I can't see this team being buyers at the deadline.  There's no point throwing away prospects at this point.

I disagree. As bad as the Astros have played, they've been in almost every game, and they're still only 6 games out. No team that close would not look to be buyers. There are a few key prospects you hold onto for dear life, but the Astros have some major and minor league players that could probably get something decent. Of course, if the players don't get their heads out of their asses soon, all of the trades in the world won't make much of a difference. I'm glad to hear that the coaches got their asses chewed a bit too. The team is not focused and playing as a team right now. That's the fault of the coaching staff.

Quote:
9.  The All-Star Break couldn't come at a better time.

Absolutely. With a soft schedule to begin the second half, the Astros could turn things around quickly, but they can't shoot themselves in the collective foot, the way they have been doing.

160

Talk Zone / Re: All All-Star Game issues resolved

« on: July 07, 2006, 04:13:36 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
even worse than the WS advantage

So, does "this time count" or not?

Unfortunately,  it does.

161

Talk Zone / Re: White Sox fans are the absolute fucking worst

« on: July 07, 2006, 04:05:09 pm »

Quote:
The PUNCH AJ campaign worked. That turdnugget is maybe the fifth best C in the AL and he won it over Hafner and Liriano.

How is Travis Hafner not an All-Star?

I generally don't do much voting for the AS because I generally don't care, but when I heard yesterday that Asswipe was leading the voting in the AL, I voted as many times as I could for Liriano. Hafner, Verlander, and Liriano all deserved to go over him. That's inexcusable. Fans should be ashamed.

162

Talk Zone / Re: What about 2nd?

« on: July 07, 2006, 03:59:29 pm »

It's funny. This is the Morgan I expected last season. I fully expected him to be the "Redding" of 2005. At this point, it looks like I was only a season off. I still think he'll turn it around just in time for the Astros to go on another late-season run.

163

Talk Zone / Re: All All-Star Game issues resolved

« on: July 07, 2006, 03:51:47 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
* Every team must be represented.

Take this out.  Only the host team must be represented.  Other than that I'm on board.

Absolutely. I think this is the stupidist rule associated with the AS game, even worse than the WS advantage and multiple online voting, neither of which I like.

164

Talk Zone / Re: 2nd Astro All Star

« on: July 07, 2006, 03:41:52 pm »

Official Press Release

165

Talk Zone / Re: a run coming?

« on: July 05, 2006, 12:00:55 am »

Quote:
Agree 100%.  The Cards are having serious problems with their pitching.  I would still like the Astros to get a better bat.  I think the problem is Lamb, if you get a bat for RF, where does that leave Lamb?  Is he an upgrade at 3b over Ensberg?  Are there any 3B out there to be traded?

Anyway, I'll let Tim do his job.

How about Abreu in RF? Personally, I like the idea of an upgrade, such as Abreu, in RF and moving Berkman back to 1B, but as you indicate, it's difficult to bench Lamb when he's hitting so well right now. You  could put him at 3rd over Ensberg, but I think that's a mistake for the long term. Ensberg is a MUCH better fielder, and I think he's the better hitter over the course of a season.

Of course, if you trade for Abreu, you can be assured that they would want an impressive package in return. I have no idea what positions the Phillies need, but some combination of Ensberg/Lamb/Taveras/Burke/pitchers/prospects would not be out of the question. Steep price, but it might be worth it.

166

Talk Zone / Re: Buchholz: The Stud

« on: July 04, 2006, 12:11:25 am »

Quote:
JD and BB kept remarking how many Stros fans there were in the crowd for Sunday's game.

I completely agree. I listened to the game on XM, which had the Rangers' feed. If I hadn't known that they were in Arlington, I might have thought it was in Houston. The crowd noise was just as loud for the Astros as for the Rangers over the radio. Very nice.

And Buchholz is a stud. He's had a couple of rough outings this season, thereby inflating the ERA, but the outings where he was on, he looked phenomenal. He's definitely a stud, only a rookie stud who's had a few growing pains.

167

Talk Zone / Interleague play

« on: July 03, 2006, 01:29:52 pm »

Astros record on Friday, June 16, before the latest round of interleague play: 35-32, 5 games out of first in the NL Central, and 2.5 games out of the WC.

The Astros go 5-10 against the Royals, Twins, White Sox, Tigers, and Rangers. As of today, they are 40-42, still only 5 games out of first in the NL Central, and 4 games out of the WC. That there exemplifies why the Astros still have an excellent chance of doing well this season. I just hope the Astros get on a tear before the 3rdnals and Reds do.

168

Talk Zone / Re: Astros at Rangers - where they don't like the Heat

« on: June 29, 2006, 06:36:54 pm »

About the comment about "some cosmic law that one of the teams playing in Tiger Stadium (sic) has to play like shit"-- I was at the game yesterday in full Astros regalia. As I was walking out, I was being good-naturedly consoled by Tiger fans on the sweep. Many of them said, "Your guys may not be doing well now, but talk to us when they play like that for a 15-year stretch." I had to remind them about the majority of the Astros' first 2 decades.

169

Talk Zone / Re: Wandy

« on: June 27, 2006, 04:21:56 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
What type of players would it take to get Carlos Lee?  I don't think Wandy is enough, what about Wandy/Lane?

I can't imagine the Brewers would trade Lee right now.  Looking at the standings, they have to feel they are still in the WC race at least (3.5 games back like the Astros).

Even if the Brewers were sellers, which I agree they are not at this point, they would want a heckuva lot more for Lee than Lane and Wandy. I'm sure their price would be cost-prohibitive for the Astros, especially considering Lee would be a rent-a-player (FA this off-season).

170

Talk Zone / Re: Wandy

« on: June 27, 2006, 04:15:40 pm »

Quote:
i agree that Super Burke should be in the 2 hole and Lamb should be in an RBI spot. he wants to hit in front of Berkman, no matter where Berkman is.

trade for Chipper, i tells ya, and bat him 4th.

I don't think Chipper goes anywhere, at least not this year, no matter how far the Braves fall.

ETA: But because the Tigers are my #2 team, I wouldn't mind seeing Smoltz back home with them, as has been rumored.

171

Talk Zone / Re: Oregon State, NCAA Champions

« on: June 27, 2006, 02:59:51 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Congrats to the Beavers.  Heck of a job coming back after losing their opening game.  Great, great tournament.

That's impossible.  Northern schools will never have success in baseball until they add a mandatory March start date.

Oregon State's a northern school?

172

Talk Zone / Re: Wandy

« on: June 27, 2006, 02:56:06 pm »

Quote:
This is not about getting rid of Wandy though.

Exactly. Important point.

173

Talk Zone / Re: Wandy

« on: June 27, 2006, 02:54:43 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Generally speaking, I like Wandy, and I still think he could be a solid #3 pitcher, but if the Astros get an offer like that, I hope they jump at the chance.

You would trade a "solid #3 pitcher" for a 38 1/2 year old part time outfielder on the downside of his career?...

Wow...

I said he could be a solid #3 pitcher. He certainly isn't yet. That's why I would do it. Given the fact that he is not a #3 starter yet (and might never be) and given the depth of young quality starters the Astros seem to have, despite their inexperience in the big leagues, yes, I would do that deal at this time. And I don't think it's that much of a stretch.

174

Talk Zone / Re: Wandy

« on: June 27, 2006, 02:37:55 pm »

Quote:
Many teams would trade for pitching, many of those are however the lower rung type of team.  But you can find gems in lower rung teams.  Mostly high priced veterans, so don't expect to trade Wandy for a cheap, young, good hitter.

This is not Dave Burba for Brian Giles or Larry Anderson for Jeff Bagwell.  It may, however, be the type of trade where you could acquire say a Mark Loretta type of player.  Go ahead and find one though.  But overall, Wandy has trade value if you realize it is within a certain parameter.

Say Wandy for a Reggie Sanders type of player.

Generally speaking, I like Wandy, and I still think he could be a solid #3 pitcher, but if the Astros get an offer like that, I hope they jump at the chance.

175

Talk Zone / Re: Mascot Change (non-bb)

« on: June 27, 2006, 02:35:07 pm »

Quote:
I know most people have heard about the NCAA ruling about "Native American Mascots".  Well the university I work for was one of those affected.  The new mascot is now Warhawks instead of Indians.  Please check out The Link and let me know what you think of the new mascot.  I am way to close to the issue to form a rational opinion.  First they change the name(1999) and now the name.  The university I graduated from no longer exists.

Honestly, I like it. I know change can be difficult. I know I'd have trouble if my alma mater went through such drastic changes, but I like the new ULM mascot/colors. It's not too overthetop, and it's attractive. I was never fond of the  old logo anyway.

176

Talk Zone / Re: Wandy

« on: June 27, 2006, 02:07:30 pm »

I agree that he probably is expendable. At most, he might bring an average middle-relief guy. Given the way the BP has been overall this season, that could be a big help, so it's not out of the question But if you're thinking he would bring a hitter of any consequence, no way.

Then again, the available pitching at the deadline will be sparse, so maybe they can catch a desparate GM at the right time. Still, I doubt Wandy's a key to any meaningful trades this season.

ETA: My guess is that Wandy finishes the season as an Astro. I know. It's a stretch.

177

Talk Zone / Re: BTN #11: Asheville manager flops, flings and foolishly...

« on: June 26, 2006, 06:02:29 pm »

Man, at what point does Hirsh get the call? Not that the Astros need starting pitchers right now, but that dude seriously looks ready for The Show.

So next time the Astros need to call up a starter, does Sampson get the call after his impressive stint recently with the big club, or does the Hirsh era officially begin?

178

Talk Zone / Re: I think the Astros need to take a break from baseball

« on: June 26, 2006, 05:18:14 pm »

Quote:
what i recall is that Roy blew his last start all by himself with no help from the bullpen, and he had a 4-1 lead. ditto his WS start. he blew that himself.

stuff like this happens to every pitcher on every team every year. i do not think there is a logical answer.

Be that as it may, it seems that the BP has been especially bad in his starts. As I mentioned in  another post, the ESPN Radio game announcers said that before last night, the Astros BP had an 8+ ERA when Roy starts. It only went up after 7ER in 6IP. I don't mean to say that there's an explanation for that, as there probably isn't one, only if nothing else, it shows that Roy (and of course, the team in those starts) has gotten no help from the BP this season. Just a weird and disturbing stat.

179

Talk Zone / simulated games

« on: June 26, 2006, 03:45:37 pm »

Reading about  Backe's simulated game got me thinking, how exactly do "simulated games" work? Are there fielders involved, or do they estimate what plays would likely be outs and which would be hits? Are there baserunners or ghostrunners? Can the baserunners steal bases? Are there umps with a changing strike zone and who blow the call at second base? Who manages these "games"? Can I buy tickets? Why can't I find them on the radio/TV?

180

Talk Zone / Re: I think the Astros need to take a break from baseball

« on: June 26, 2006, 01:50:51 pm »

Quote:
i think this whole concept of the pitcher "having something to show for it" is pretty much fan/tv announcer-created poppycock.  somehow i don't think roy cares as much as you about whether he got credited with the statistic of "win."

On an off-topic but related note, the announcers on espn radio's broadcast of the game last night said that going into the game the Astros bullpen had an ERA this season over 8.00 in Oswalt starts. Needless to say, that went up last night with 7 ER in 6 IP. For me that's an unbelievable stat. I've tried to stat listings online to help me compare that to other starting pitchers, but I can't find that accessible online. Any ideas?

181

Talk Zone / Re: Astros Fan history question

« on: June 26, 2006, 01:30:31 pm »

I am the love child of the Judge and Orbit (pre-Simmons).

182

Talk Zone / Re: Speechless. Fucking Speechless.

« on: June 26, 2006, 12:51:43 pm »

Quote:
i certainly hope you notified Purpura and Garner of your disgust.

excuse me? what are you trying to say?

ETA: I have no idea what Purpura and Garner have to do with my disgust. Why would I notify them? They can't locate Lidge's slider. They can't force Qualls to make them work for it. They can't get MoBerg and other hitters to break out of their funks.

I'm not second-guessing Purp or Garner. I have no suggestions for improvement. I'm just disgusted. It's a gutteral, emotional reaction, and there's nothing wrong with that. The Astros' collective performance this weekend disgusted me. End of story.

183

Talk Zone / Re: Worst Trade ever- that nobody bashes

« on: June 26, 2006, 12:50:44 pm »

Quote:
True- but I think that's my point- it hasn't reached the national level yet- like a smoltz alexander (which wasn't a bad trade imo for detroit) or a bagwell anderson.  Both those trades, at least, the rental player pitched really well.  The Gints got nothing but hassle and trouble out of AJ

I guess it's still early yet.

btw- I wasn't saying Liriano WOULD win a fist full of cy youngs- just that I could see it happening. That guy is filthy.  Didn't know Boof was in the majors till I saw him beat Prior and the Scrubs- the hits just keep on coming.

I don't think it's reached national level of significance because Liriano hasn't yet achieved "superstar" status. He's just a rookie. An incredible rookie, but just a rookie. Once he gets at least a few AS appearances under his belt, then we might start hearing more about that trade. Remember, he could still have an injury that kills his career, and no one would know his name in 10 years, in which case Nathan, a very good but not yet elite closer, becomes the sole "one that got away" from the gints.

184

Talk Zone / Re: Speechless. Fucking Speechless.

« on: June 26, 2006, 12:42:13 pm »

Quote:
That one really doesn't make any sense. It could reasonably be argued that they don't show them up here because there isn't much of a fanbase for our boys here.

But Dallas? Come *ON*! It's not like the Strangers have been that good historically. Or even good at all!

We got both Saturday's and Sunday's Astros games here in Michigan. It was the first time since I moved here 4 years ago that the local Fox affiliate chose to show the Astros on their "game of the week". If they had been playing anyone other than the White Sox, though, I doubt I would have gotten the game. I listened to the game last night on XM with my dad who is visiting from Houston. We were both thoroughly disgusted with both Saturday and Sunday's games.

185

Talk Zone / Re: The Great Man last night

« on: June 23, 2006, 01:11:02 pm »

Quote:
Liriano impressed me.  I thought the hitters just looked like shit against Silva.

Sure, Liriano is a very good young player. He may end up being a great player one day, but he's a rookie. Rookies generally don't go an entire season with a 2.17 ERA. Expect him to have a few bad outings, especially once he starts facing teams for the second or third time. And Silva pitched well against the Astros, but he's generally been a train wreck this season. I think their only other starters of note is Santana, who has had a few bad-to-mediocre outings this year, and Radke, who hasn't been very good to this point. The net result is that I do not expect the Twins to be anywhere near the division or even the ALWC picture in September.

186

Talk Zone / Re: The Great Man last night

« on: June 23, 2006, 12:50:11 pm »

I thought he looked good, but it seemed he may have been simply too pumped up on adrenaline. After all, the atmosphere and hype was enough to jack up even a veteran such as Clemens. I don't think anyone should have expected him to be in mid-season form in his first start. I was most encouraged to see the way he got over to first base on that double play. Absolutely no problems. That showed his shape, agility, and athleticism. At his age, those things are very important. His arm was there, though. I expect his start in Detroit to be better.

And the Twins may have looked great in those three games, but they are simply a hot team right now. They'll cool off soon. They have some great players, but as a team, they're nothing special. I fully expect them to finish 3rd in the division, far behind the Sox and Tigers hovering somewhere around .500.

187

Talk Zone / Re: Astros at White Sox ? Rounding Third, Headed for Homo

« on: June 23, 2006, 12:39:28 pm »

Who do you think might MC Hugo Chavez Appreciation Day? That idiot, Pat Robertson, perhaps? I'd pay money to see that!

188

Talk Zone / Re: So...who's the DH?

« on: June 23, 2006, 12:28:00 pm »

I absolutely hate the DH. I wish it would die a quick death and never return. That's why I love this quote from Biggio about him possibly DH-ing at CHI/DET/TEX:

Quote:
"For me, I'm glad to do it," he said. "The mental grind of not having to grind both sides of the coin -- offensively and defensively. There's no doubt about it, it's like having an off-day."

Take that, you AL pussies.

189

Talk Zone / Re: The stupidest Friday post ever. Ever. And it's Thursday.

« on: June 19, 2006, 03:13:07 pm »

I find Ron Santo extremely entertaing, but perhaps for the wrong reasons. If you're a stickler who wants your broadcasters to be professional and relatively objective, Santo is your worst nightmare. Sometimes, I think he forgets he's on the radio. He sounds like a guy watching his live-or-die favorite team with some buddies at a local bar. Little real insight, but a lot of character and passion. Irritating to many, entertaining to others.

190

Talk Zone / Re: Maybe this one doesn't count

« on: June 14, 2006, 01:40:50 pm »

Quote:
"We're still hopeful," Selig said, "because I think it's really good for the game. Everyone likes it. The owners. The players. The sponsors. It just adds a lot of meaning."

That's news to me. I don't know about those other groups, but the impression I got was that the players hate it. Most of the players I've heard speak on the matter have said that they want home field to be based solely on the win-loss record of the participating teams, despite the differences in opponents. Personally, that's what I'd like to see too.

191

Talk Zone / Re: NonBaseball: Military Recruitment Meeting

« on: June 13, 2006, 05:42:20 pm »

Has anyone seen Spack lately? I sure could use that sunuvabitch.

192

Talk Zone / Re: Anyone know if the Rice OU game will be televised today?

« on: June 13, 2006, 05:01:42 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
i was on a UT team that hit 4 consecutive HRs at Baylor's park. our pitcher was the 5th hitter, and he was a good hitter who was strong enough to hit one out. he swung from his heels and popped up foul to the catcher. our bench booed him as he returned to the dugout.

I was once in the middle of three guys hitting HRs.  The two guys a head of me did, then I singled.  The next guy homered.  The guys gave me shit for hitting like a girl they said.  I am/was not much of a power hitter.  I hit .396 my senior year in HS, but did not hit a HR.  A scout told me that if I'd have done that lefthanded, he'd have been interested, but because I did it right handed, he wasn't impressed.

I had the opposite problem. My last year of ball I hit .196, but I led the team in HR. I kept getting under the ball and driving it. Everytime the ball hit my bat, it was either a HR or a fly ball. I still have trouble hitting it on the ground.

193

Talk Zone / Re: Duckworth debuts for KC against Angels

« on: June 13, 2006, 04:54:26 pm »

Quote:
he'll probably shut us out.

That was the first thing that came to mind when I saw him penciled in too.

194

Talk Zone / Re: NonBaseball: Military Recruitment Meeting

« on: June 13, 2006, 04:41:05 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Anyone wonder why the focus shifted?  Here's a clue:

"The most important thing is for us to find Osama bin Laden. It is our number one priority and we will not rest until we find him." ? George W. Bush, Sept. 13, 2001

"I don't know where bin Laden is. I have no idea and really don't care. It's not that important. It's not our priority." ? George W. Bush, March 13, 2002 (exactly 6 months later)

Could you provide a link for those, please?

 Here's one.
 Here's another one.
 And another.

I tried looking in newspaper websites, but I don't have access to most archives going back to 2002. Most are subscription-only access. But I, for one, remember hearing both statements with my own ears.

195

Talk Zone / Re: NonBaseball: Military Recruitment Meeting

« on: June 13, 2006, 01:26:40 pm »

Quote:
It was good, but too much time in Greenland and not enough talking about the Vikings in North America, which is what I thought the show was going to be about.

This may be splitting hairs, but Greenland was in North America last time I looked.

196

Talk Zone / Re: Duckworth debuts for KC against Angels

« on: June 13, 2006, 01:08:34 pm »

I think I saw somewhere that he's expected to start against the Astros. So two of the starting pitchers in the KC series should be former Astros.

197

Talk Zone / Dell Diamond = Best minor league park in the country

« on: June 13, 2006, 12:52:39 pm »

According to  minorleaguenews.com. Among their criteria:

 

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• Does the game-day experience leave the fans well-treated and entertained?
   
• Is the ballpark attractive and feature facilities which enhance the fans' enjoyment of the game
   
• Do all of the ballpark bells and whistles that generate a great game-day experience deliver impressive attendance numbers?  

 

I've never actually been to the Dell, but I don't think I've ever heard a negative word it.

No other TX park in the top 10, but Dr. Pepper Ballpark (home of Frisco Roughriders) and LaGrave Field (home of the Ft. Worth Cats) each get honorable mention. Also of note is that only one ballpark built before 1998 made the top 10: FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, PA is in at #2. That's impressive for an old fogey like that to beat out some of the young whipper snappers.

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Talk Zone / Re: In praise of Chris Burke

« on: June 07, 2006, 02:19:15 pm »

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But I am excited for what they could potentially do, just as I am exicted about what Burke is currently doing. I don't think there's anything wrong with that.

Who said what Burke is doing now in his current role was "wrong"?

No one. I don't think I understand that question. What I mean is that there's nothing wrong with getting excited about young players and what they might do for a team.

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Talk Zone / Re: In praise of Chris Burke

« on: June 07, 2006, 01:47:48 pm »

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...the pronouncements of messiah-ship that has caused for the lack of honest talk about him. ...

Two years ago, Lane was the poster boy.  Now it's Zobrist, Pence, Jimerson, Scott, Hirsch, anyone who hasn't been in the majors is touted, by commentators, as better ("has to be better than...") than who they have up already.  Now it's Burke, who's next?

I don't remember this messiah talk for anyone in recent memory. Fans may get excited about players in the minors, such as Pence, Hirsh, etc., but that does not mean that most fans expect those players to be the savior of a franchise. Maybe I just haven't seen what's really there with regards to fan reaction to these players, but it has always looked more like appropriate excitement, rather than too lofty expectations for a player. For instance, I'm very excited about what Hirsh and Pence might do for the Astros in the coming years, but that doesn't mean that I expect them to come in and immediately become all-stars, or even become all-stars at any point in their careers. But I am excited for what they could potentially do, just as I am exicted about what Burke is currently doing. I don't think there's anything wrong with that.

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Talk Zone / Re: watching clemens right now on espn

« on: June 07, 2006, 10:31:53 am »

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hmmm 6/6/6 and roger pitches watch out

He also got 6 K while throwing just over 60 pitches... oooo spooookey.........

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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Astros take Max Sapp

« on: June 06, 2006, 06:24:51 pm »

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My initial feeling is to like this pick.  The Astros lack power hitting first basemen in the minors.  He's a lefty hitter the Astros lack.  If he moves to first, and I expect him to, and can hit pro ball, he likely won't break in to the bigs until Berkman is 35 or 36 at the earliest.

Some comments about Sapp from  the Footer article:

Quote:
[Sapp] worked out a number of times for Astros scouts,... and the club is excited about Sapp's future as a catcher. ... "He's been catching two years, but he's got all of the physical skills and the work ethic. He's a good enough athlete. We had worked him out this year as well as last year. I have no problem with this kid developing behind the plate."

This leads me to believe that the Astros may not be as quick to move him to first as some seem to believe.

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Talk Zone / Re: High school pitchers in Texas

« on: June 05, 2006, 02:58:35 pm »

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In Texas, the University Interscholastic League gives coaches the freedom to push pitchers. There is no limit on the number of innings for a pitcher if a team plays only one game. If a team has a doubleheader, the pitcher is limited to 10 innings. It is also "strongly recommended" that a pitcher get one day of rest after a "full game."

The Link

How long has the rule been in effect? maybe Jim R knows.

I know in 1995 Kerry Wood pitched both ends of a double header to eliminate Round Rock in the regional final.Not sure how many total innings he pitched between the games, but he threw somewhere in the neighborhood of 180 pitches, IIRC.

From the article at the top of this thread:

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Kerry Wood threw about 175 pitches in a doubleheader for Grand Prairie in 1995 and has been on the disabled list 10 times with the Cubs.

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Talk Zone / Re: My thoughts on the state of the team

« on: June 05, 2006, 02:43:45 pm »

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You have to have a shut down pen to be a contender.  Houston better get that back soon or else they're in trouble this season, regardless of any fixes to the offense.  IMHO of course.

Qualls has his shit together, and Lidge is getting there.  If Wheeler can find it, or Nieve converts back to the pen as well as I think he will, the pen should be OK.

Absolutely, I think with the demotion of Gallo, the bullpen is significantly improved, and will get better. The rotation is a bit of a concern with Oswalt's back, and everone else's Jekyll/Hyde impressions. Hopefully Roger will help provide a little stability. The problematic area, as we expected at the beginning of the season, is the offense. The OFs have to start hitting. Arky's comparison of them versus NL shortstops and NL catchers really tells the tale. I wish I had the solution. People want to make trades, but that won't solve the problem. Eventually, some of the players currently in uniform must produce much more if the Astros are to get back into the race.

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Talk Zone / Re: My thoughts on the state of the team

« on: June 05, 2006, 02:01:41 pm »

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thanks for expressing what i was thinking.. (yes i do occassionally have a rational thought). it almost seems like murphys law.. if it can go wrong it will. you are right something just does not seem in sync. i can not for the life figure out how the baseball gods where insulted or how to appease them...You have to wonder what clemens is thinking about his decision.. who knows he may be the rabbits foot the astros need now..

Fredia, Clemens heard the sound of money in the wind.

I heard on the radio yesterday (?) that ESPN is going to show his first pitch at Lexington.  I can hardly wait to see it.

It's not just the first pitch. Dolan made it sound like they'll be showing almost his entire outing. Same with his starts in CC & RR. Complete overkill.

As far as the trades go, I have to think that if the Astros can get some value for Lane in a deal, they'll take it. He still has some value, given his production last year. Surely there's some GM that believes a "change of scenary" will do him good. The Astros may need to take a "change of scenary" player as well, kind of like the Lima trade in 2001. Too bad the Tigers are raking this year.

205

Talk Zone / Re: Sampson in, (fill in the blank) out...

« on: June 02, 2006, 10:17:53 am »

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I thought that was a joke.  Gallo

Sure. That's the obvious choice, but Sampson isn't exactly the obvious choice to take his spot, IMO. Makes me wonder if perhaps another pitching move might be at hand. Like I said, though, I know very little about Sampson.

It's the obvious choice to me.  Gallo wasn't getting anyone out.  Lefty, righty, it didn't matter.  It doesn't matter to me that Sampson was a SP in AAA.  Stros MGT has had a enough of Gallo (IMO) and it's time to at least try and make change and upgrade that spot in the pen.  I don't think Sampson is being called up in for the rotation, but if he excells in the pen and Nieve or Bucholtz has a rough run, who knows.

I didn't say Sampson wasn't a good choice, only that he wasn't an obvious choice, to me at least.

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Talk Zone / Re: Sampson in, (fill in the blank) out...

« on: June 02, 2006, 10:07:12 am »

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Is it possible that Sampson becomes the fifth starter and Nieve goes to the pen?

Ah. Now that might make more sense.

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Talk Zone / Re: Sampson in, (fill in the blank) out...

« on: June 02, 2006, 10:06:24 am »

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I thought that was a joke.  Gallo

Sure. That's the obvious choice, but Sampson isn't exactly the obvious choice to take his spot, IMO. Makes me wonder if perhaps another pitching move might be at hand. Like I said, though, I know very little about Sampson.

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Talk Zone / Re: Sampson in, (fill in the blank) out...

« on: June 02, 2006, 10:00:32 am »

Gallo's the first thought that comes to mind, but would they call up an effective starter to be a random BP guy? Frankly, I know next to nothing about Sampson.

ETA: Wow. I just looked at his stats from the year. His pitching stats look good, but what's the deal with his hitting stats? .542/.565/.522 is insane for a pitcher, even with only 23 AB.

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Talk Zone / Re: Dont bet on it

« on: June 01, 2006, 07:23:30 pm »

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Even with Clemens, Vegas odds are against Houston to even qualify for the playoffs.  But, I like their analysis of the situation,

Andy Pettitte isn?t pitching well and Lance Berkman is limping. But don?t count out the defending National League champions yet, especially with Clemens back. ...

Brad Lidge finally looks like he?s straightened out. The problem is Houston?s hitting. ...

Yet Houston has too many good hitters to maintain this lightweight pace.

Preston Wilson only has five homers. He?s averaged 27 homers the past six seasons if you discount 2004.

Jason Lane is batting .195. He smashed 26 homers and drove in 78 runs last season. Willy Taveras, one of the fastest players in baseball, has just eight steals. He stole 34 bases last year.

Adam Everett is hitting .206, 42 points below last year.

...St. Louis leads the Astros by 7 ? games going into Thursday, but the Cardinals may be in for a fall.
 
They are basically a one-man scoring machine thanks to Albert Pujols. Scott Rolen is hitting for average but hasn?t regained his power after last season?s shoulder surgery and now Jim Edmonds ...is likely to go on the disabled list

The Cardinals already have their ace, Chris Carpenter, on the disabled list with bursitis under his right shoulder blade.

So the Cardinals just might be vulnerable. The Link

Shh... Don't tell anyone! I like it when the Astros fly under the national radar.

Also, the next 3-4 offer some opponents that the Astros should do well against. Hopefully, they can use those games to get back into form, rather than the embarrassment recently with the Pirates, Nationals, etc. I'm still very optimistic about the season, and I think we may be seeing the turnaround soon.

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Talk Zone / Re: scoring question

« on: May 31, 2006, 06:30:57 pm »

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Buchholtz was charged with 3 ERs today.  Why was the last run -- scored on a strike out/wild pitch considered an earned run?  Why is this treated any differently than if the run had scored on an error by the pitcher?

A WP is not an E. Only an E can lead to an unearned run.

211

Talk Zone / Re: can the Astros please waive Mike Gallo right now

« on: May 31, 2006, 06:21:20 pm »

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Who gives a shit whether they're left handed???

I guaran-damn-fucking-tee that ANY pitcher on RR's roster is better than Mike Gallo.

I'll do you one better...the grandmother of any pitcher @ RR is better than that freakin scrub!

It seems that there are very few good left-handed relievers for a reason. Most lefties who are any good are made into either starters or closers early in their careers. The trend seems obvious:
left-handed reliever, non-closer = right-handed AA-ball pitcher at best.

I can't think of any exceptions off the top of my head.

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Talk Zone / bullpen availability

« on: May 29, 2006, 05:00:07 pm »

Has anyone heard if Garner is going to make Qualls and/or Lidge unavailable for today's game? They each pitched 2 innings on Saturday and 1 inning yesterday, and Lidge had an inning on Friday and Qualls two innings on Thursday. Given the way Garner's talking about the way he uses his pitchers, that makes me think he'll avoid using them completely today, perhaps even in a save situation.

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Talk Zone / Re: Astros at Cardinals ? Meet the New Busch, Same as Old Busch

« on: May 29, 2006, 10:44:09 am »

I noticed the jinx that the Pirates announcers laid down too. As soon as they said it, I knew the Astros would win. It's just too easy to jinx a team like that.

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Talk Zone / Re: why was Russ Springer in the game in the 8th inning?

« on: May 24, 2006, 02:07:47 pm »

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with a rested bullpen?

Good question.

Please explain how that's a "good" question.

Springer is, at best, our 4th most effective reliever and by his own admission was rusty.  If better pitchers are available, shouldn't they be used in a 1-run game in the 8th?

If either Qualls, Wheeler, or Lidge had been blowing people away this season with sub-2.00 ERA and such, that might be a question worthy of discussion. They haven't been, though, and Springer was certainly just as viable option as any one of them.

I still don't know why it even matters, though. The Astros didn't do anything against Cordero in the 9th inning anyway. Even if they don't score in the 8th, you still lose 2-1. You can second-guess all you want, but you can't convince me that Springer was a bad choice at the time.

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Talk Zone / Re: why was Russ Springer in the game in the 8th inning?

« on: May 24, 2006, 10:03:41 am »

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with a rested bullpen?

Because they couldn't wake up Trever Miller.

No one was more rested than Springer. The Astros were down by a run. Springer seems to be as good a choice as any. Not like it made much of a difference.

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Talk Zone / Re: Holy crap

« on: May 17, 2006, 03:53:53 pm »

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I tuned in Milo last night and was flabergasted that he gave the score (6-2) about 3 times in the space of a couple of minutes, of course at the end of the inning he mentioned the score for the 4th time but never did I hear what inning it was...

I was listening to a Tigers/Twins game recently on the local affiliate station in the car. I came in about an hour late, so I was hoping they'd catch me up. I listened for a more than 2 innings, and although I did get the score a couple of times and one scoring recap, no one ever gave the inning!! They went to a few commercial breaks and even had a pitching change, but they never gave the inning. The Tigers radio guys are usually good if unspectacular, but that was ridiculous.

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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Ask And Ye Shall Maybe Receive: Season 2, Vol 4.

« on: May 11, 2006, 07:34:33 pm »

Has anyone gotten a sense of what the Astros are looking to draft this year, in terms of positions and projected speed through the system (i.e. highly-talented HS prospect moving slower than a moderately talented college prospect)?

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Talk Zone / Re: Wheeler/Lidge

« on: May 11, 2006, 07:28:28 pm »

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Lidge threw 35 pitches, just 18 for strikes, went 3-2 on Kent before popping him up, issued three walks and gave up an RBI single. Don't know if you have to read too much into that to see that Garner was concerned about him getting the job done in that inning.

If this was a one- or two-time thing, it wouldn't be a big deal, but he has struggled in almost every outing of the season, some more than others.

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Talk Zone / Re: Wheeler/Lidge

« on: May 11, 2006, 07:10:02 pm »

Lidge got his first "Hold" since before Dotel was traded. I think before the last week or so, Garner and Hickey probably figured they could leave him out there if he got into trouble, and he might work himself out of it. Now, not so much.

In other words, I suspect this means that they still consider Brad the closer for now, but he's on a much shorter leash.

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Talk Zone / Re: Concerns Over Clemens' Fitness May Not Be Unfounded

« on: May 11, 2006, 01:51:28 pm »

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I'm sorry this was heard over the radio, but this is the closest thing I can find on the internet for you. The Link

Some random idiot with a mic and a radio transmitter does not constitute anything. Until it is confirmed by a "printable source" it is worthless, and not worth an ounce of our time.

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Talk Zone / Re: A decade of crap

« on: May 08, 2006, 07:30:33 pm »

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From the 2nd record of the archive , circa February 1999:

"The Clemens saga is expected to draw to a close soon. The Grocer Drayton McLane has stated that he wants a resolution to this thing by the end of the week so it will cease being a distraction."

The more things change...

I've only been privy to about 7 years of crap, having first seen the light in the  late summer of '99. It's been fun as hell through the years in one form or another, and I'm glad I finally got around to posting on a semi-regular-ish basis. Many thanks to Kev and Scott, and to everyone who has carried the torch and pushed the pixels since the retirement of the BFT.

One other thing I noticed on that page:

Quote:
Meanwhile, Jays fans are bent out of shape about this photo, which appeared in The Sporting News feature on their "all-throwback" team, which is clearly not an old Toronto uni, but does have a big "a" on it.  

Does anyone know of a copy of said photo? I've looked but come up with nothing.

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Talk Zone / Re: A decade of crap

« on: May 08, 2006, 07:18:15 pm »

Actually, I guess I didn't need to go to archive.org. I forgot that it was transported over  here from the old site.

But the point still stands...

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Talk Zone / A decade of crap

« on: May 08, 2006, 06:58:48 pm »

I was trolling through archive.org today, and I came across  this little nugget from 2002. It seems that AstrosConnection.com (a.k.a. the Big Freight Train), which as most of us know was the forerunner to the modern-day OWA, was begun in 1996. Now that was 2 years or so before I happened to come upon it, but it seems that sometime this year (perhaps even sometime this month or next, given the reference to Scott's graduation) will be the 10 year anniversary of the creation of the ol' BFT.

So, I just thought I'd take a moment to reflect on a decade of the AC/OWA experience, and I'd like to thank Kev, Scott, and their successors (including the current group of OWA admins) for the time, energy, and knowledge they've dedicated to creating a place for me and thousands others to completely waste our time and avoid doing any work whatsoever.

We vicariously live through men who get paid to play a game. They use a stick and a ball, and they run around in circles, and we are obsessed with it. AC/OWA feeds and nurtures that obsession, and for that I thank you.

Thank you for supporting my obsession and my procrastination.

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Talk Zone / Re: Happy Cinco de Mayo

« on: May 05, 2006, 06:13:51 pm »

Quote:
I like tequila allot.  The good stuff is usually designated anejo, which as I recall means ancient or old, and it's like drinking congac or brandy.  There's a website I once found that had a long discussion of different brands, and the only one I can remember is Centenario.  There was a Herederia I liked, too.

I did find this websit, though:  The Link

I would have enjoyed that more if it weren't for the fact that they show a gorilla playing a trumpet, but it sounds like a tenor sax. Annoying.

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Talk Zone / Re: ESPN "oops"

« on: May 05, 2006, 04:08:34 pm »

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I got a kick of of this:
 Barry Bonds hits 714

In case the URL gets removed, it's a piece about Barry Bonds hitting home run number 714.  Pretty much the whole thing is about steroids of course.

Not that writing an article about something happening prior to when it happens is unusual.  It's just funny to see it published.

The AP article isn't all that informative, but I don't understand why they want to wait until after 714 to "publish" it. It only makes one reference to 714:

Quote:
-- first smashing the single-season home run record by hitting 73 in 2001, and now equaling Ruth's 714 homers.

It's a side reference and had little to do with the article, which seems to be same-old same-old. Looks to me like it's being held simply as page filler.

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Talk Zone / Re: Wandy To Miss Start With...Mouth Blisters?

« on: May 05, 2006, 01:05:13 pm »

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the last time he pitched i saw what looked like mouth sores on his face .. but thought no.. there has to be an story somewhere how he got them

There might not be much of a story. I used to get severe mouth sores in my throat and mouth with annoying regularity in high school and college. To this day, I still don't have an explanation about what caused them or why they gradually stopped altogether. The most logical explanation was a certain vitamin/mineral deficiency that self-corrected, but that was never confirmed. I don't know that Wandy's problem is the same thing, but it's not out of the question. I hope he recovers soon.

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Talk Zone / Re: Bass on Rocket

« on: May 05, 2006, 12:29:27 pm »

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The last thing I worry about with a Clemens return is his conditioning.

Really?  That Coors Light fan of the game a while back said Clemens was the most out of shape player in baseball.  He seemed to know his stuff.

Damn. Coors screws me again.

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Talk Zone / Re: Clemens coming back? Wanna bet?

« on: May 05, 2006, 12:26:36 pm »

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You can now wager on which team Clemens will play for.

 Link

I found out about this last week. It seems that sportsbook.com has the Astros at  3:2 favorites.

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Talk Zone / Re: Bass on Rocket

« on: May 05, 2006, 12:03:40 pm »

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K. Bass made an interesting point on Roger and I wanted to get your thoughts.  He said that if Roger comes back, there might be a problem with his conditioning (possibly causing injury) since he has not been training his body this spring as he has done in the past.  Bass made a point that a persons body gets used to a certain regime and when this is not followed exactly the risk of injury goes up.  Any comments?

I think it's very safe to say that Roger will not take the mound until he is certain that he is physically prepared to pitch. His conditioning regimen is legendary, and I suspect that if he returns he'll spend a bit of time rehabbing in the minors as his own version of spring training. The last thing I worry about with a Clemens return is his conditioning.

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Talk Zone / Re: Points from last night's game

« on: May 05, 2006, 11:59:15 am »

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2. This was one of those situations where the "save" belonged to Wheeler rather than Lidge.  Wheeler made the heart of the order look easy while Lidge struggled with the bottom of the line-up.

Lidge didn't face the bottom of the line-up, he faced three pinch hitters then the top of the line-up.

Yeah, but really, Eckstein is the only hitter he faced that I wouldn't consider a "bottom of the lineup" kind of hitter (unless you count John Rodriguez, but I don't think he's earned consideration as a real threat quite yet.)

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Talk Zone / Re: It fell on deaf ears but somebody delivered well...

« on: May 05, 2006, 10:50:03 am »

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The Link

"I'm afraid the critics are right, you are a big-time flip flopper. It's only getting worse lately as you try to cover your butt after making knee jerk reactions. The flip-flopping has reached near-siezure levels. I keep thinking someone should have you bite down on your keyboard to keep you from swallowing your tongue."

That might have been a more powerful statement if it didn't read like it was written by a 6th grader. All imagery; no examples, of which there are many, of course.

Also, this was covered yesterday on Pinwheel's blog and on  OWA.

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Talk Zone / Re: Going to NY-recommendations needed (Non-BB)

« on: May 04, 2006, 04:59:47 pm »

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I'm going to New York City for the first time in my life next week.  And yes, I will be at Yanks v. Red Sox on Wednesday.  I'll be there 3 days, mostly by myself during the day, any suggestions places to go, restaurants, general attractions?  I will be staying in Brooklyn but I figure I can take the train around anywhere.

If you're into authentic Chinese food, try Mandarin Court Restaurant on Mott St. just south of Canal. Its a great dim sum restaurant that my wife and I stumbled on one time. We try to make it back every time we're in town. It's the real stuff that you won't find at your local Chinese buffet (i.e. no  General Tso's chicken). And if you speak Mandarin, there's always lively conversation to be had.

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Talk Zone / Re: Brett and Dave not making any friends in Cincinnati

« on: May 04, 2006, 09:54:31 am »

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During tonight's broadcast, I noticed Dave (or was it Brett?) make an out-of-context reference to the food in Cincy's ballpark being good. Was that a make-up comment?

It was Dave, and according to previous reports, similar statements were actually made during the original broadcast in question, so no make-up comments should have been necessary.

On a marginally related matter, I'm actually beginning to like Dave Raymond on the air. He is picking up Milo's inadequacies pretty well, and when he calls the game, he describes a good picture. I especially noticed it last night on a ground ball that Milo simply described as "knocked down". I had no idea where, how, or in what manner, but Dave quickly jumped in and described a hard hit ground ball to Ensberg's left (or maybe right?) that he had to do a good job to keep in front of him. He described it in other ways too, but I thought he painted a pretty good picture.

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Talk Zone / Re: Brett and Dave not making any friends in Cincinnati

« on: May 01, 2006, 07:13:02 pm »

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I just listened to the archived version of the audio.  (It's at about 3:08:30 if you have the GameDay audio package, which I broke down and bought this year.  Was only 15 bucks or something.)

It wasn't as bad as I expected, and he didn't specifically call them "bush league", he said they had been bouncing around in the bush leagues (if that matters).  Sounded to me like he did get a little overly excited based on what he heard through the grapevine, but whatever.  He did seem to be a bit protective of that particular columnist, so maybe they are drinking buddies or something.

I was mainly surprised that he made a big deal out of it at all, since he was hearing about it entirely through the grapevine, and he didn't give the boradcasters the benefit of the doubt.

Of course compared to OWA his rant was very tame, but then again, an OWA bitchfest would likely get him permanently barred from the airwaves.

And I guess I misheard the "bush league" comment. Thanks for pointing that out.

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Talk Zone / Brett and Dave not making any friends in Cincinnati

« on: May 01, 2006, 03:59:12 pm »

I listened to the game yesterday on XM. They had the Reds' feed. Around the 8th inning, Marty mentions getting an email from a fan who's sister lives in Houston. This lady tells her sister who tells Marty who then tells the listening audience that Brett and Dave are on the Astros broadcast bad-mouthing a particular columnist for the Cincinnati Enquirer. It seems that this columnist wrote that the Reds' only serious competition for the Central Division is the Cardinals. According to this game of "telephone", Brett and Dave started calling out the columnist, saying he knows nothing about baseball, and he should open his eyes to the good team that the Astros have.

Well, Marty went to town on that. Again, he's hearing this 4th person. He talks about Brett and Dave's inexperience, calling them "bush league", and basically saying thatthey are unprofessional and idiots for making their remarks about the columnist. He also claims that Brett and Dave were saying that there were no good places to eat in Cincinnati, which Marty nearly had a heart attack arguing.

I briefly looked through the  Reds section of the Enquirer and didn't find the article in question. I can't verify the article or the comments on the Astros broadcast, but Marty went off after simply getting an email. I normally enjoy listening to him call a game. He's still good at it, but that 8th inning yesterday was a trip.

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Talk Zone / Re: Vote Now!

« on: May 01, 2006, 02:05:37 pm »

Quote:
Actually, I think last year they changed the rule so that some of the bench spots are voted on by the players, rather than the manager unilaterally selecting them.

 The Link

Yes, the players vote and their top picks not selected by the fans are on the team. The manager then fills out the roster before the final fan vote. Of course, there is always the injury replacement selections.

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Talk Zone / Re: Comedy Central no more

« on: May 01, 2006, 09:52:37 am »

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it still stings..doesn't it

Only for Co-ards fans, who only point to that because they can't point to an NL pennant.

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Talk Zone / Re: Vote Now!

« on: May 01, 2006, 09:49:58 am »

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I refuse to vote if I cannot vote for Chris Burke.

They have write-in votes, so you can vote for Burke.

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Talk Zone / Re: Comedy Central no more

« on: April 28, 2006, 04:30:52 pm »

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So let me ask you a question them if it is based on expectations.  Do you expect the reds, the brewers or the scrubs (that one is almost funny to type) to finish above the Astros?

nope.

Wait. Are you referring to  the stat, RPI, or the even more subjective  "Power Rankings"? If you're referring to the former, then refer to my previous post about my own ignorance regarding RPI. If you're referring to the latter, then expectations apply, and my answer again is "nope".

240

Talk Zone / Re: Comedy Central no more

« on: April 28, 2006, 04:23:42 pm »

Quote:
And another thing, why the hell are they doing power ratings at this time of the year? (sample size)  

Because almost all power rankings are at least partially determined by expectations, especially early on. Record and quality of play are overtly only part of the equation (if that). Expectations know no sample size.

241

Talk Zone / Re: Comedy Central no more

« on: April 28, 2006, 04:12:59 pm »

Quote:
Ridicules Pinwheel Interpretation

And what might that be?

242

Talk Zone / Re: Monday should be interesting

« on: April 28, 2006, 04:10:11 pm »

Quote:
ok say he does come to the astros who do you sit down wandy or taylor.or neive...

Assuming they all hold to form, which is a big assumption IMO, I think Nieve is out of the rotation. I'm not sure if he'd move to the BP or AAA, though.

243

Talk Zone / Re: Monday should be interesting

« on: April 28, 2006, 04:07:53 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Tracy Ringolsby

_ WHERE WILL CLEMENS GO?: The Astros can re-sign Roger Clemens as of Monday. Don't bet on it.

The Astros have been playing well, ...

Talk in baseball circles is owner Drayton McLane is hoping Clemens drags his feet on a decision and signs with the Red Sox or Yankees.

That way, McLane can save about $3 million a month to try to make it look as if Clemens was a mercenary who went East for money instead of staying home and helping the Astros.
The Link

I dont see any hints that this originates in Houston.

Skip Bayless started this rumor on ESPN's Cold Pizza the other day.  It was his *opinion*, but now it seems to be circulating as a fact.

In-breds.  *sheesh*

I heard it even before that. I can't remember where, but it was either ESPN or XM Home Plate last weekend. Whoever it was said that Drayton "does not have the most baseball smarts" and is so enamored with the early success of the young pitchers that he may be more than willing to let Roger pitch elsewhere, rather than pay him what he will command.

I don't buy it, though. I still think the Astros will pay what he wants, and he'll be pitching in MMPUS by sometime in June.

244

Talk Zone / Re: Comedy Central no more

« on: April 28, 2006, 03:58:51 pm »

Quote:
I don't know if you ever look at the RPI rankings on ESPN, but they seem to help support your post.  

1    Chicago Cubs    
2    Cincinnati Reds
3    St. Louis Cardinals
4    Milwaukee Brewers
8    Houston Astros
24    Pittsburgh Pirates

Wow. That's one stat I hadn't seen. Every team ahead of the Astros is either in the NL Central or the AL. No teams from the NL East or West are any higher than 12. I'm not smart enough to know specifically what RPI means or how much it matters, but you're right. That certainly does seem to support my post.

245

Talk Zone / Comedy Central no more

« on: April 28, 2006, 01:02:44 pm »

It doesn't seem like it was that long ago that the mediots and spexperts dubbed the NL Central as "Comedy Central". Now, the Astros and Cardinals have both made the playoffs each of the last two years, and each has represented the NL in the WS during that time.

Now as I look at the somewhat meaningless April 28 standings, I see HALF of the teams in the NL Central (Astros, Reds, and Cardinals) with better records than the rest of MLB (15-6, 15-7, 15-7, respectively). And two more teams (sCubs and Brewers) each at least 2 games above .500.

I know that will certainly change, and probably this weekend. I fully expect to see the Reds and Cubs finish below .500 when it's all said and done. Astros and 3rdinals may both make the playoffs for the third year in a row, and the Brewers and maybe even Reds could contend after the AS break, but do you think that this division really is the best in baseball, or is it simply an April mirage?

This matters not a wit, of course. Just killing time.

246

Talk Zone / Re: XM Question

« on: April 27, 2006, 08:10:41 pm »

Quote:
I love XM.  Sometimes I just want to leave the wife and kids in the house and sit in the driveway.

The distinctions between music channels is always interesting.  80s alternative.  Early 90s alternative.  Classic alternative.  XMU (today's college alaternative).  It's lots of fun.  I think U2 can be on almost every channel they've got.

I also enjoy the two classic and old-time country stations (Lefty Frizzell and nothing post-George Strait).  

And I listen to the hockey stuff, too.  Maybe it's just because I don't know much about hockey, but I think their talk shows are much better than the baseball shows.  The MLB morning show delivers very little information.  Kevin Kennedy and, especially. Rob Dibble rarely have anything to say.  The best part is interviews with beat writers who cover the teams.

About their baseball shows, you can tell they're still learning how to do an all-MLB radio station, but there are a few good shows. Charlie Steiner's show  in the afternoons is very good, but I don't get to listen very often. Also, "Minors & Majors" on Saturday mornings can be fairly informative at times, and they do talk some about minor league baseball.

You're right about Kennedy and Dibble, and the Ripkin show is painful to listen to. Most of the other stuff is crap too, but I'm hoping they improve as time goes on.

247

Talk Zone / Re: If true, this is funny stuff (Milo related)

« on: April 27, 2006, 07:48:55 pm »

Quote:
Man, that was dead spot on!  I find myself waiting for the same from Raymond (I have not heard Dolan paired with Milo yet).  In game one versus the Dojers, Milo called a fly ball to left like this:

(Milo) "Long fly ball, it's looonggg... errr... the left fielder is looking up and it's....ahhhhh"

*silence*

(Me: "WHAT!!! DAMNIT... WHAT!!! SAY SOMETHING, PLEASE... SOMEONE!")

Raymond: "The left fielder caught it, Milo..."

Milo: "Folks, we lose sight of the ball and the left fielder when it goes into the corner like that...."

(ME: "so why were you going into a homerun call?")

Raymond: "Just short of the track, Milo... Cruz got over there quickly and made the play."

Milo: "err... ahhh... oh"

I think you're correct and eventually Raymond and Dolan will learn to jump in and provide the information on the play a lot quicker instead of letting the Captain stumble his way through things.  Ash did a great job of timing his "lemme jump in here".  Raymond didn't know how painful that really was to listen to for me and probably thousand of other fans.

I heard that same play (or one similar), and I could almost hear Raymond looking over at Milo thinking, "Are you going to finish the calling play??"

I really think these new guys will be pretty good. Right now, they're tripping over Milo and still learning the team, but they call the game well when given the chance. Last night I noticed Raymond jumoed in on a couple of plays with near Ashby-like timing. Like has been stated, it will be interesting to hear them without Milo in the booth for 12 of the next 14 games.

248

Talk Zone / Re: Trying to start some shit

« on: April 27, 2006, 04:46:43 pm »

Quote:
without trying to start any shit, why do you all keep reading what these guys have to say? If Lopez, Ortiz, Justice are idiots, why waste your time?

I read the daily game recap from here (thanks for the RSS feed, Waldo) and that gets me a better view of the game than anything I'll find on chron.com

For me, it's for entertainment purposes only. If you don't take them seriously, it can be quite entertaining at times. Accurate infomation and proper perspective need not apply.

249

Talk Zone / Caption Contest for the off day

« on: April 27, 2006, 04:45:29 pm »

 The Pic

250

Talk Zone / Re: The Great Chris Burke to start at SS tonight

« on: April 27, 2006, 04:08:41 pm »

Quote:
The hype machine drives me nuts.  Let me say this now, and I'll say it again in June, this year's draft class is mediocre at the top.  Do not expect the Astros to have anyone in Bogusevic's class with their first pick this year.

But isn't that the case every year with the June draft? For every "can't miss" draft pick that hits, there are many more "can't miss" draft picks that misses. Every June I read a where-are-they-now article about some phenom that went down in flames. We just have to understand that among the major professional drafts, the baseball June draft is probably the most difficult to predict success.

The NFL may have Ryan Leaf, but there are probably dozens of Ryan Leafs in the baseball annals.

251

Talk Zone / Re: Very disappointing

« on: April 27, 2006, 01:08:52 pm »

Quote:
Buster Olney's  blog picks up Ortiz's version of events.

I almost see a smirk on Olney's face regarding that. He might be in on the joke, but enjoying it nonetheless.

252

Talk Zone / Re: The Great Chris Burke to start at SS tonight

« on: April 27, 2006, 01:05:15 pm »

Quote:
Obviously I'm not a Major (stole that from a David Bowie song).

I honestly thought you took it from  the cocktail, which is pretty good.

253

Talk Zone / Re: XM Question

« on: April 26, 2006, 06:25:00 pm »

Quote:
It isn't really a problem for me because the headset (Delphi SkiFi 2) displays the names of the teams who are playing on each channel.  So when you start scrolling, you can see HOU on the channel listing.  

I guess it is only a big deal to know the channel # if your unit doesn't allow you to see what is on each channel.

I have a Delphi MyFi, which I love, but I use it with the remote a lot, meaning that I can't see the display at a distance. Also, when you first turn it on, it takes a minute to register the details of each channel you aren't currently tuned to.

Quote:
by the way, isn't XM great during baseball season?

Abso-freakin-lutely! One of the best tech purchases I've ever made. I got it for baseball (and I love listening to other games, besides the Astros), but I've found that I really enjoy the other XM programming as well.

254

Talk Zone / Re: The Great Chris Burke to start at SS tonight

« on: April 26, 2006, 06:18:38 pm »

Quote:
Per ESPN 790.

How good is Wandy at making throws from the hole?

P.S. How is Jim's heart doing?

255

Talk Zone / Re: XM Question

« on: April 26, 2006, 06:10:10 pm »

Quote:
I'm on the road a lot now, so just installed the XM doodad today.  Stupid question: are the Astros games on one particular channel, or do they differ by the day?  I'll hang up and listen.

They are generally on the same channel for a particular series. For instance, tonight's game is on the same channel as Monday and Tuesday nights' games (XM 188). The games are usually arranged with games in the AL ballparks on the lower channels (176-182 or so) and games in the NL parks on the higher channels (183-189). Also, games being played further west are higher on the dial as well. Consequently, Astro home games are almost always on 186-188.

It is a little frustrating trying to find it sometimes, but XM has posted  the schedule with channels through the end of May. The rest of the schedule will eventually be posted on that page as well.

256

Talk Zone / Re: If true, this is funny stuff (Milo related)

« on: April 26, 2006, 04:05:21 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:
I liked it when he told Yvette that she had a face for radio, which was diametric to his intent.

The five seconds of silence following that line was priceless.

This reminds me of a story a friend of mine told me about Milo, (don't you just love friend of a friend stories?  they are always so accurate).  

Apparenlty he knew a girl that was interning with the Astros and Milo was around one day and said something along the lines of "BFOG coming through" or somesuch.  She kinda laughed not knowing what he meant, and stopped and asked him what he was talking about.

He smiled and said it stood for "Blouse Full of Goodies".  

At which point she just shook her head and walked off.

That is pretty consistent with most stories I've heard about Milo. What an asshole.

257

Talk Zone / Re: If true, this is funny stuff (Milo related)

« on: April 26, 2006, 04:02:31 pm »

Quote:
That would be Dave Raymond, a only slightly better version of Alan Ashby.  He sounds like Ashby trying to do an imitation of Vin Scully in his calls, especially the homerun. I'm talking about Ashby of course.  "Fly ball... to the wall... and that ball is GONE!"  Raymond has a more annoying call on a homerun: "Deep fly ball, to the wall, left fielder leaps... (all this is in the same tone, kind of telling me it's going to be an out for sure)... and it's... over the wall!  HOMERUN FOR BERKMAN!".  He waits until he's really sure, as in the ball is completely gone to make the call with any emphasis.  Splitting hairs for sure, but he hasn't been appreciably any better than listening to Ashby lately.

I expected more.

As for Dolan, he is buried as the #3 man for some reason, but he has a real nice call of the game when he does get his chance.  As for Milo... he's getting worse by the inning now, instead of by the day.

I never minded Ashby. Besides, I always felt it was difficult to tell if he would have been better without Milo. The innings he did without Milo were usually pretty good, IMO.

I agree we'll need to hear the new guys on the road by themselves before we can get a good read on them. I think part of the problem is that they are similar in age and background and both brand new to us. That makes them hard to distinguish from each other. As we get to know them, we'll be able to distinguish them and maybe appreciate them. I know I already appreciate hearing a play called accurately and in a timely manner.

Unfortunately, however, I won't be hearing them on the road trips because XM usually provides the feed from the home team, meaning that I'll get the opposition's PBP guys on road trips instread of Brett and Dave. I'll be interested to hear perspectives on how they do together, though.

258

Talk Zone / Re: Borkowski with well deserved POTG nod.....

« on: April 26, 2006, 01:49:13 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
by FSN. He looked good tonight.

Agreed.  Also, honourable mentions to Wilson (du-uh) who went 2-5 with a run and 2 ribs including the winner, Willy T for a similar night, Bruntlett for making a number of sweet plays at SS and Munson for filling in very well at catcher.

Just in case anyone forgot, this was extra innings when both the starting SS and catcher were gone long before the regular innings were over.  Golf clap for Gar.

This may be splitting hairs, but Ausmus wasn't "long gone before regular innings were over." He was ejected with one out in the bottom of the ninth. That said, I agree with the premise of your post.

259

Talk Zone / Re: If true, this is funny stuff (Milo related)

« on: April 26, 2006, 01:44:41 pm »

Quote:
On a TAMU forum where I go to find out how long until we shit can Franchione, there is a thread about the Astros.  A poster is claiming that during last night's game, while announcing the various groups in attendance, Milo says "And ROn Burgandy and the Action 5 News Team from San Diego is in attendance".   And that a day or so ago he said, "and Lamda Lamda Lamda from Addams College is in attendance..."

Anyone else hear this?  Someone goofing on the unsuspecting Milo?

Yes, I heard the Ron Burgandy thing. I honestly expected someone to mention Will Ferral or "Anchorman", but it never came. They were all imprssed that a group came all the way from San Diego to see a game. Hillarious.

About the new guys, I like them. They aren't flashy or particularly memorable, but that's a good thing, IMO. They call the game, and I know what's going on as it happens. Big improvement.

260

Talk Zone / Re: This is a completely stupid question

« on: April 24, 2006, 07:50:23 pm »

Quote:
Welcome to the world of inherently flawed statistics.

a.k.a. The world of statistics

261

Talk Zone / Re: Astros in Spanish

« on: April 24, 2006, 07:33:08 pm »

This is even better:

Quote:
It is a new record in the history of the tax exemption. Morgan Ensberg has managed to bat quadrangular in six consecutive games. 3 peloteros of the Stars shared the previous record, with 5; the last one in doing it is a person who never will be named by my Smooth companion of For Love of The Stars. They guess who is?

Fun with bablefish.

Edit: Apparently, there's even an English language version of this blog:  The Link

262

Talk Zone / Re: Astros in Spanish

« on: April 24, 2006, 07:30:05 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:
Somebody who reads Spanish needs to keep an eye on this site.  They have different articles.

Which articles are different? I can't find one that doesn't have an English version, most because they all seem to be written by either Footer or Maloney.

The Link

Ah, I see. I was looking for articles, not writers. I did find one of the  Spanish Astro blogs. After babelfishing it, I read this comment about Garner's ejection the other night:

Quote:
If somebody understands the reason for which umpire it was after Wandy Rodriguez, that me explains it please. I not yet understand it.

And Phil Garner understood it still less than I.

I see what you mean about "if you already know what they're writing about..."

263

Talk Zone / Re: Astros in Spanish

« on: April 24, 2006, 07:18:30 pm »

Quote:
Somebody who reads Spanish needs to keep an eye on this site.  They have different articles.

Which articles are different? I can't find one that doesn't have an English version, most because they all seem to be written by either Footer or Maloney.

264

Talk Zone / Re: Dr. Gary...

« on: April 23, 2006, 02:20:19 pm »

Quote:
I find this whole Wilson thing interesting.  I think it's probably safe to say Preston Wilson is streaky.  The Astros knew what they were getting when they signed him.  If healthy, they know that they are probably going to get 30 homeruns out of him, but they also know that he's going to strikeout 150 times. Right now, I would be pitching around Ensberg too. At least until Wilson starts making opposing pitchers pay...and he will...for a week or two at a time.  But folks...this is Preston Wilson.  This is what you are gonna get all year.

I don't think anyone would disagree. Not many around here get worried about minor slumps, such as the one Wilson is currently experiencing.

265

Talk Zone / Re: Beltran

« on: April 21, 2006, 10:20:20 am »

Quote:
There has been a big stir on the Mets forum about Beltran & Floyd being on the DL.  I was reading through all the threads and alot of them were saying there not worth the money there being given. I even saw a few guys wishing Beltran never came over to the Mets.  Honest to god, i'm not really sure what to think about all this.  I want to think I love Beltran, wish he would have stayed in Houston.  Then again, it's in the back of my head how he left us. Someone help me out here.


'Carlos Beltran missed his fourth straight game Wednesday with tightness in his right hamstring. Beltran said he isn't sure if he will be able to play this weekend at San Diego.'

I know how I feel about Beltran: relief that the Astros DIDN'T sign him, which is the same way I felt the day he signed with the Mets. He made himself a buttload of money in October 2004 that he probably wouldn't have gotten otherwise. I hold no ill will against him, but I started to get really nervous when the contract talks started getting above $100M. That's just insane for a great but not phenomenal player (based on his stats). I would have liked seeing him in Blood n Mud last year, but not at anything close to the price the steM paid.

So about the injury? Sorry for him, but I still feel relieved.

266

Talk Zone / Re: Poo-holes

« on: April 21, 2006, 10:09:47 am »

Quote:
there is a right way to play the game and a wrong way. showboating, taunting and showing up the other team are all examples of the wrong way.

I would certainly agree with that, but it does no good for us to get our panties in a wad about it. If I ever see my kid doing it, rest assured he won't do it again, but I can't control what Pujols, Bonds, Ensberg, or anyone else does, so it's not worth my time to give it a second thought.

267

Talk Zone / Re: Derrek Lee out with two broken bones in wrist

« on: April 21, 2006, 10:06:17 am »

Quote:
& Big deal...we were without Lance for what will probably end up being the same amount of time so they can shut the hell up and play without him.

That ain't gonna happen. When September roles around and they're in 4th place (or even 5th), struggling to make it to .500, they will be singing the Lee verse of the same song that includes their woes about Prior and Wood .

268

Talk Zone / Re: playoff history

« on: April 20, 2006, 08:45:40 pm »

Quote:
Thanks, but i really need all 8. I'm trying to make the point that a few elite teams are tying up alot of the playoff slots (including the astros) as a case for a salary cap. The yanks and braves alone have taken 25% of them over the last 10 years.

Check out Noe's link again and click "Postseason". I don't know why he said ALDS/NLDS isn't there. It is.

269

Talk Zone / Re: Poo-holes

« on: April 20, 2006, 08:34:12 pm »

Quote:
Have you ever actually pitched? It doesn't sound like you have even sniffed a baseball field. Showing up the other team is not the way to play the game and it has nothing to with the pitcher being a pussy. Those types of actions piss off the whole team, not just the pitcher that gave up the home run.

Sure. I play in beer leagues every now and then, but that's not the point. I don't understand why I should care that a person is showboating. How does that affect me in any way, whether I'm the pitcher, bench player, or a fan watching on TV? It doesn't.

It's just so juvenile to care about that kind of stuff. Care about what you can do something about and forget about the ass you can't control. (And no, "beaning his ass" does not constitute control.) Half the time, you're probably wrong about his intentions anyway. Sometimes what is "showing up" to one person is "getting caught up in the excitement" to another. But even if his intentions are crystal clear, it still does not matter.

270

Talk Zone / Re: Ausmus' modeling career?

« on: April 20, 2006, 07:50:08 pm »

Quote:
Seriously, this place looks INCREDIBLY cheesy.

It's a tux shop. What were you expecting?

271

Talk Zone / Re: Poo-holes

« on: April 19, 2006, 07:00:39 pm »

Quote:
You're right.  If someone wants to look like an ass, who am I to care?

That's all I'm saying.

272

Talk Zone / Re: John Lopez has lost the remainder of his credibility

« on: April 19, 2006, 07:00:06 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
google "McLane telemundo Astros"

you'll get
 link

Yeah, I was googling John Lopez and Telemundo. Thanks.

 Here is what John wrote on the topic.

 Here is another column a few days later.

273

Talk Zone / Re: Poo-holes

« on: April 19, 2006, 06:43:30 pm »

Quote:
Is it just me or is his grandstanding getting worse?  Saw the replay of his dinger last night and just shook my head when he flung his bat.

Buster Olney wrote in his blog that Poo-holes should start getting the Bonds treatment.  If he keeps admiring his shots and flinging the bat the way he is, he'll start getting his very own treatment.  Instead of the IBB, teams will just plunk him when he comes up.

Give me a break. Are we REALLY going to start this again? I couldn't care less what a batter does after he hits a homerun. If he wants to turn cartwheels and run around the bases waving sparklers, be my guest! Most of the time, it's just because they are excited about their accomplishment, not revelling in the failure of the pitcher. And even if they are revelling, BIG DEAL! I'm sick of this pansy crap about being "disrespected". SUCK IT UP AND THROW THE NEXT PITCH, YOU PUSSY!

As HH posted, you want him to stop showing off? Then stop serving them up.

274

Talk Zone / Re: David Wright made three errors

« on: April 19, 2006, 05:34:20 pm »

Quote:
and the Braves beat the Mets 2-1 The Link Astros enter tonights game tied for the best record in the NL.

Not just the NL but the best record in all of baseball, along with the steM and Bloody Hosiery, who also play tonight.

275

Talk Zone / Re: Bluebonnet got beaned

« on: April 18, 2006, 02:08:11 pm »

Quote:
Barry got beaned in his armor plating as retaliation...and the pitcher was promptly ejected.  WTF?

I think it's become painfully obvious that the umpires don't have a clue about what to do regarding warnings/ejections related to throwing at batters. There is no consistency and no one in authority seems to be clearing up what the policy is or really should be.

Baseball may have bigger problems right now, but this is ridiculous.

276

Talk Zone / Re: Cubs future

« on: April 17, 2006, 01:30:44 pm »

Quote:
you have not seen him play in 3 years, and you're telling me that what i saw this weekend is BS? wow.

Don't put words in my mouth. I never said it was BS, and I agree that he is very talented, and may one day be a great MLB Player. But he is very streaky. He was also extremely raw while in Lansing. I readily acknowledged that he could have improved by leaps and bounds in only 2 seasons, but that would be surprising.

I was remarking about the contrast between my own impressions and personal projections of him and the reports of late. In other words, I don't deny what you saw. Only, in this case, I personally would need to see him more before my images and opinons of him in 2003 completely disappear.

277

Talk Zone / Re: Cubs future

« on: April 17, 2006, 01:06:41 pm »

Quote:
they have two great arms in AAA--Guzman and Hill--and a stud CF/leadoff man. the Cubs will be a formidable opponent for years to come.

If you're talking about Felix Pie, I'm not quite sure that I would label him as "stud" yet. I saw him play pretty regularly when he was with the Lansing Lugnuts (A) in 2003 when he looked VERY raw. His stats look good now, but he is streaky and reminded me A LOT of Corey Patterson, even down to the hype.

Granted, I haven't seen him play since the Midwest League Championship in 2003, but I'd be surprised if he has come that far in only 2+ seasons. I doubt he'll make any kind of significance at the major league level until late 2007, although they may give him a chance well before then.

278

Talk Zone / Re: Dontrelle

« on: April 16, 2006, 12:33:39 pm »

Quote:
if he really is on the block, what would you give to get him?

I think the premise of the question may be wrong. Yesterday, I heard both Buster Olney and Peter Gammons claim that he isn't going anywhere. Now, normally I wouldn't put much stake in what they say, but they usually are the ones talking about players being traded like it's going out of style. If they of all people claim he's staying put, I'm inclined to believe it, unless the Marlins are being unusually closed-lipped about it. The trade talk seems to be coming from the execs of teams who would like to acquire Willis, not the Marlins.

Also, if the Marlins are looking to relocate or get a stadium, it makes sense that they would need at least 1 or 2 marquee names to promote the deal. Their payroll is already so low that they wouldn't need to slash more payroll (although I don't think Willis makes much at this point in his career). I will be very surprised if he goes anywhere this season. It makes no sense, even given their fire sale/rebuilding mode.

279

Talk Zone / Re: What baseball journalists do you like?

« on: April 16, 2006, 12:21:06 pm »

Quote:
What baseball journalists do you like?

I'm not sure which of these count as journalists, but here goes:

Alysson Footer
Jim Maloney (sometimes)
Jayson Stark
Tim Kurkjian (sometimes)

280

Talk Zone / Re: What could have been

« on: April 14, 2006, 04:44:00 pm »

Quote:
I love the Wilson signing because it's a great deal ($4 m., one year).  I wouldn't touch Nomah - he's too injury prone and can no longer play SS.  We don't need a 3b, and playing him at 1b makes no sense.

I think Ron-DL will hit and is a good player IF healthy.  I'm not sure of the terms of his contract with Detroit.

White's with the Twins, not Detroit.
06:$2.5M, 07: vesting option ($0.75M buyout)
2007 option increases based on Plate Appearances:
vests at $3M with 400 PAs in 2006
vests at $8.5M with 650 PAs each in 2006-07


 The Link

281

Talk Zone / Re: "Clemens leaning towards Red Sox or Yankees" ESPN

« on: April 14, 2006, 11:24:37 am »

Quote:
I think Olney's got a bad source here.  Normally he's one of the better national guys out there.

I don't know. I'm kind of leaning towards the "Roger's just screwing them around" theory. Isn't that essentially what he did hanging out in the Ranger's owner's suite earlier this season? IMO, he's having a grand ol' time watching these teams and the media fall all over him. I wouldn't be surprised if he knows exactly what he's going to do and has known all along. He's just biding his time by messing with the heads of the mediots and a few front office guys.

282

Talk Zone / Re: HOF odds?

« on: April 13, 2006, 06:28:55 pm »

Quote:
So living longer is better? Why?

This whole conversation is probably dumb, but the point is that when you adopt the existentialist perspective there is no criteria for judging "better" whatsoever.

I didn't say living longer was better. I said that the betterment of the self is often instinctively assumed to lead to longer life (and in many instances it does). Living longer is an instinct. It's neither good nor bad. It simply is.

Actually, there is a criteria for judging better, but it is different from person to person, which is why I described it as subjective. I have my idea of betterment, and you have yours. We may have similarities, but they are not the same. The commonality is the instinct to survive.

283

Talk Zone / Re: Buchholz

« on: April 13, 2006, 06:22:40 pm »

Quote:
Holy Mary Mother of God and all Her wacky nephews.  Garner hates puppies and children that's why.

I have absolutely no idea what that means.

284

Talk Zone / Re: Buchholz

« on: April 13, 2006, 06:15:33 pm »

Springer just relieved Buckholz. What's the deal? Why didn't he go more than 3 innings? I assumed he'd go as far as possible once Backe left.

285

Talk Zone / Re: weather in bay area

« on: April 13, 2006, 02:01:28 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
=Won the Pacific, #2 seed in the playoffs.

Winning the 2 seed in hockey is like being the 95th most interesting team in the country (Not counting college and I don't know whether to rank AFL higher or lower).

Not where I live, and many other places around the country.

286

Talk Zone / Re: HOF odds?

« on: April 13, 2006, 01:52:18 pm »

Quote:
What does "better" mean?

It all has to do with the drive to survive. "Better" is a subjective idea that someone believes will somehow prolong one's life, even by the smallest of margins. In reality, however, most of those efforts are fruitless or even counterproductive.

287

Talk Zone / Re: NL Central news

« on: April 13, 2006, 01:47:51 pm »

Quote:
I realized the other day that Sirius has a NASCAR channel, where one can presumably listen to a 500 mile race.

I'd love to be in the living room one day, ear pressed up against the radio and slamming down cold ones, and my wife walks in and says, "Honey, are you still planning on planting those begonias for me?"

"Shut up, baby.  I'm listenin' to the car race."

Also, XM has a PGA channel, where you can listen to golf.

Actually, the golf channel is better than I expected, and I'm not even a fan of professional golf.

What I found funny was that XM had a second NASCAR channel last season where you could listen in on the communications between the drivers and crew during the races. I think they got rid of that channel this year. I never got to listen, but that might have been a little interesting.

288

Talk Zone / Re: HOF odds?

« on: April 13, 2006, 01:36:30 pm »

Quote:
From that existentialist perspective, explain the difference between sports and education.

There is little real existential difference. I think it depends on how you define education. Some consider baseball and sports in general a kind of necessary life education that undergirds our humanity. Others see education in a more formal, hierarchical way. The drive for human betterment, which might but does not necessarily include education, is essential. Not for its own sake but because of the inherent drives of humanity, such as the essential drive to exist.

Ultimately, the difference depends on how one defines education and whether or not sports meet that criteria. They are both means to an end, the end being a drive to survive through human betterment. For some, sports meet that criteria and are meaningful. For others, it doesn't and, therefore, is meaningless.

[were]

289

Talk Zone / Re: HOF odds?

« on: April 13, 2006, 01:27:48 pm »

Quote:
Sam Kellerman, on sports:

 

Quote:
 Sports is man's joke on God, Max. You see, God says to man, 'I've created a universe where it seems like everything matters, where you'll have to grapple with life and death and in the end you'll die anyway, and it won't really matter.' So man says to God, 'Oh, yeah? Within your universe we're going to create a sub-universe called sports, one that absolutely doesn't matter, and we'll follow everything that happens in it as if it were life and death.'"

Very good quote. Ultimately, very little actually matters, even most if not all of our careers. We like to think they matter because it helps us achieve some peace in the struggle to determine the meaning of life.

290

Talk Zone / Re: Because of tonight's rainout...

« on: April 13, 2006, 01:02:51 am »

Quote:
Looks likely.  Tomorrow will be Backe in the early game and Roy in the late game.  In Arizona, Pettitte goes Friday, Wandy Saturday and Nieve, announced tonight, will to be starting Sunday.  Astros.com has T. Buc penciled in for Sunday. We'll see.

 Footer is reporting that Buckholz will start Sunday at Arizona. No mention of Nieve whatsoever.

Also mentioned in the tonight's "recap" here.

291

Talk Zone / Re: HOF odds?

« on: April 13, 2006, 12:24:34 am »

Quote:
Let me state upfront that these questions (however stupid) are genuinely put:

1. Is there a source for betting on a player making the HOF?
2. If so, what are the odds for Berkman and Oswalt?
3. Do you think Berkman and/or Oswalt will make the Hall?

1. Probably, but it's probably very shady.
2. My guess better for Oswalt than Berkman, but it's WAY too early and useless to say for either.
3. No way to give an accurate guess at this time.

I'm glad you recognize the stupidity of the questions, but I wonder why you decided to post them in the first place.
...
Okay. Finished wondering.

292

Talk Zone / Re: Because of tonight's rainout...

« on: April 12, 2006, 11:57:42 pm »

I noticed that too, but I found  this VERY amusing:

 

Quote:
The rainout didn't stop Jeff Pearlman from passing out fliers in front of the ballpark for his upcoming book, "Love Me, Hate Me: Barry Bonds and the Making of an Antihero." The book, the second in as many months about the slugger, is due for release April 18.

...

Pearlman called his timing "horrible" for the release of his book, which isn't expected to generate the same attention as "Game of Shadows." When Pearlman tried to hand out one flier Wednesday, a man said, "We don't want that! Throw it away."

293

Talk Zone / Re: Because of tonight's rainout...

« on: April 12, 2006, 10:54:02 pm »

Quote:

Quote:


Does this mean Buchholz gets skipped entirely?

According to Yahoo, he's scheduled to pitch the nightcap tomorrow.

My guess is that will change, and the only reason it hasn't yet is because there's no official word on pitchers for tomorrow beyond what they had before the rainout. Garner likes to keep as many pitchers on schedule as possible. That would probably mean Backe and Oswalt go tomorrow and Bucholz moves to Sunday at Arizona, which would have been his second start.

294

Talk Zone / Because of tonight's rainout...

« on: April 12, 2006, 10:28:35 pm »

I looked into potential makeup dates for the missed game, assuming they get two in tomorrow. The Astros and Giants both have a day off on May 8. It looks like a good option because the Astros play in Denver on May 7 and LA on May 9, so travel problems might be minimized. The Giants will be returning home from a series in Philly to begin a 6-game homestand.

I'm not sure what other considerations need to be made for a return trip, but my money's on May 8 for a makeup game in SF.

295

Talk Zone / Re: So what happens if...

« on: April 12, 2006, 06:34:53 pm »

Quote:
...an entire 3-game series is rained out, and because of the moronic unbalanced schedule, you only have one trip planned to that city for the entire season?  It looks like it's been raining all day in San Francisco, and there's a 40% chance of rain tomorrow.

This situation has to have come up before, but I don't remember hearing what the precedent is.

In past situations where one or two have been rained out, I think teams have made up at least one game at the other team's park (not sure how the revenue works). They've also played a game at the end of the season or on a common off day, but only if it matters for the playoffs.

I'm not sure what they'd do if an entire 3-game series got rained out. I don't think there are hard, fast rules about it. They simply try to make it up if/when they can and if it makes a difference in the playoffs.

296

Talk Zone / Re: The Rocket?

« on: April 12, 2006, 06:21:42 pm »

Quote:
what college is in finals in March?

Those on the quarter system, possibly.

297

Talk Zone / Re: Astros Offseason Baffles Everyone

« on: April 12, 2006, 06:15:49 pm »

Quote:
Fucking bunch of losers on this forum. A few cunts with nothing better to do than spend their sad empty lives on an internet forum acting the tough guy.


So anyone with a clark status knows nothing according to you fags. How sad to see you have come to using post count to measure knowledge.

Maybe we should all get our dicks out and start measuring them.

This place is a fucking disgrace.

Wow. I know some Clarks like to get all self-righteous and defensive at times, but I really didn't expect that. It's all in good fun! Ask a stupid question, get a foot up your ass. That's just the way it works. It's okay. We don't have to get all pissy about it. Oh well, on to the next thread...

298

Talk Zone / Re: NL Central news

« on: April 12, 2006, 06:12:30 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Too bad.  I wish he could have a healthy season; he used to be one of the most exciting players in the game to watch.

I don't know.  He's still pretty exciting to watch.  That is if you find the prospect of seeing a gruesome sports injury take place exciting.  Kinda like watching NASCAR for the wrecks.

I really don't mean this in a derogatory way, and I mean no offense to NASCAR fans, but why else does anyone watch NASCAR? I thought that was why everyone watched it. On the rare occasion when I happen to catch a race, it is always because of morbid curiosity about the collisions.

299

Talk Zone / Re: Reds taken the scrubs to the woodshed

« on: April 11, 2006, 05:44:04 pm »

BWAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am loving this. I only wish it was the Astros delivering the beatdown, and I was sitting in the Wrigley bleechers at this very moment.

300

Talk Zone / Re: Berkman

« on: April 10, 2006, 02:18:39 pm »

Quote:
He's always shown otherwise.  That's my point.  People who think/thought Berkman can't/couldn't play the field have never watched him play the field.

And that's my point. I think people were often blinded by his goofyness in the OF that they didn't get a good look at his fielding. Now that he's in a position to be slightly less goofy, his fielding abilities might be more noticeable to those who don't pay as close attention as others.

301

Talk Zone / Re: I guess anything can happen

« on: April 10, 2006, 02:16:04 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
I though both Lopez and Justice wrote good artilces.  All in the same day?

Justice is deluded if he thinks that erasing Bonds' homers from the records is going to restore to greatness the likes of Aaron, Ruth, Robinson etc.  For one, I don't believe that, simply by passing them on the dinger list, Bonds will take their place in history: his reputation is too tarnished at this point.  There will always be those who will think of Bonds as the greatest, but erasing him from the records will simply create another Pete Rose.

He's hit what he's hit and he's taken what he's taken.  History will remember all of this.  Justice wants to clean things up so that the unenlightened of the future get Justice's version of history, not someone else's.

As for Lopez' article, file that one under "no shit Sherlock".  Backe has to be very good to replace Clemens and the Astros' #3 starter.  Wow!

When it's said and done, I think it's very possible that Bucholz will be the one who "replaces" Clemens. He may not end up with the ERA or other stats, but he could certainly replace his win total, especially with an improved offense, which is really all that matters.

302

Talk Zone / Re: Berkman

« on: April 10, 2006, 02:12:04 pm »

I think it's because his absent-mindedness and aloofness at times (i.e. starting to walk off the field with only 2 outs), in addition to his girth, has given the impression to some that he doesn't know what he's doing in the field. Maybe now that he's involved in the action more, he can begin to show otherwise. He seems to be off to a good start.

303

Talk Zone / Re: While We Were Sleeping

« on: April 10, 2006, 02:07:26 pm »

Quote:
and the bullpen is confused about their roles,

In the bullpen, the relievers "didn't know for sure what was going on when Braden started warming up then sat down and Rincon was going back out," Isringhausen said. "We just sit down there and do what we're told."
The Link

The beautiful grandeur of LaGenius.

304

Talk Zone / Re: Barzilla makes it so easy...

« on: April 09, 2006, 05:09:20 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:
B.S.

Yeah, that sounds about right.
 

Your opinion is flawed given how much respect either point of view get around here.  I wish TZers would just realize the truth about this place once and for all, instead of continuing with this myth.

I understand the stated truth about this place, but I also believe that truth is only surface-deep, as most visible aspect of life often are. It's only my opinion, so truth is relative, especially in cyberland. I'm not trying to convince anyone of my opinion, just throwing it up there like a clay pigeon to be annihilated by thows who disagree.

305

Talk Zone / Re: Barzilla makes it so easy...

« on: April 09, 2006, 04:54:54 pm »

Quote:
B.S.

Yeah, that sounds about right.
 

306

Talk Zone / Re: Roy, 25-30?

« on: April 09, 2006, 04:50:26 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Of course he has a chance to win 25-30, but SO much can happen over the course of a season, even for a healthy pitcher.

Ahum, no he doesn't.  Not unless Garner turns into Dusty Baker or Lou Pinella and decides to meat grind Roy.  That would be a travestry and reason enough to get rid of Scraps if he were to do so, especially for a meaningless 25-30 win season in return.

The word "chance" used in the loosest sense possible. If he gets 25-30 starts, he theoretically has a chance for 25-30 wins, since you technically need only 5 IP/game to get a win, but it ain't gonna happen.

307

Talk Zone / Re: Barzilla makes it so easy...

« on: April 09, 2006, 04:28:33 pm »

Quote:
Just because I like to use statistics doesn't mean I don't know baseball. It just means I use a different tools in addition to my observation. Sure, you can disagree with that and I respect that opinion. You can say I misuse the tools I use. That's fine as well. I disagree with others all the time. Sometimes I'm right and sometimes they're right. It's not a big deal and neither of us ever have to resort to insulting each other.

Baseball is a religion around here (and elsewhere). Speaking as someone on the relative outside of whatever feud is going on, it seems that you attempt to slaughter what some here consider sacred cows, and they disregard your liturgy (i.e. Sabermetrics or whatever statistical philosophy you adhere to). Just like feuds between different denominations of the same religion, you each see reasonable validation for your differing views in what happens on the field, and it is almost impossible to convert the other side for that reason. I guess they see you as an idiot, and you see them as uninformed, stubborn, or something like that. Of course, I don't speak for anyone other than myself, but that's what appears to me to be the primary reason some people here have a problem with you. Just my opinion.

308

Talk Zone / Re: Sacrilege

« on: April 09, 2006, 04:04:16 pm »

I have been VERY impressed with the way Berkman has played first. I assumed he would be acceptable, but he has looked really good, scooping throws out of the dirt and now that throw to third. Let's hope he keeps that up!

309

Talk Zone / Re: Roy, 25-30?

« on: April 09, 2006, 03:54:14 pm »

Of course he has a chance to win 25-30, but SO much can happen over the course of a season, even for a healthy pitcher. It is highly unlikely that anyone will win 25-30 this year. Here is the win total for the MLB leader in wins over the last 10 years (notice that NO ONE has gotten to 25 wins in that time):

2005 - 22 (Willis, Florida)
2004 - 21 (Schilling, Boston)
2003 - 22 (Halladay, Toronto)
2002 - 24 (Johnson, Arizona)
2001 - 22 (Morris, Co-ards)
2000 - 22 (Glavine, Atlanta)
1999 - 23 (Martinez, Boston)
1998 - 20 (by 4 different pitchers)
1997 - 21 (Clemens, Toronto)
1996 - 24 (Smoltz, Atlanta)

The last time any pitcher won as many as 25 games in a season was in 1990, when the A's Bob Welch won 27. The last time before that was Steve Stone for Baltimore in 1980. That's only 2 25-game winners in the last 26 years. The last NL pitcher to win that many was Steve Carlton with 27 in 1972, and that was before relief pitching became as big a part of the game as it is now. That should tell you how difficult it is to win that many games in a season, even with good health and good offense and defense behind you.

So, yes, Roy has a chance to win 25-30, but not a realistic chance. 20-22 is probably the most realistic best-case scenario, but that's only if everything goes right, meaning no more games like last night.

310

Talk Zone / Re: Barzilla makes it so easy...

« on: April 06, 2006, 05:57:03 pm »

Quote:
Yeah but . . .

A couple of years ago, the Astros were offering a reporting position where you would cover the team for Astros.com.

The salary was in the low 20s.  If I had just graduated college, I might have considered applying for the job.  But I was 34, I had two kids, a mortgage, and a much higher paying job.  While this might have been a "dream job" it didn't make a whole lot of financial sense to apply.  

I think that Barzilla's saying the same thing.  If he were younger, taking a job as a statistician for a minor league team might have been okay.  But it's not realistic for him right now.  Given what I know about salaries paid to minor league executives, I understand his position.

I don't think those jobs were intended to be a person's sole income. I think they were listed as part-time jobs, essentially to supplement one's income while attending school or working elsewhere at the same time. If I lived in Houston, I might have considered, given my relatively flexible schedule.

311

Talk Zone / Re: News? Not news?

« on: April 06, 2006, 05:15:00 pm »

Not news.

312

Talk Zone / Re: "Sandman" controversy in NY

« on: April 06, 2006, 05:11:51 pm »

NY once again showing how self-obsessed and narcissistic they are.

313

Talk Zone / Re: A somewhat surprising reaction to the Chi-Sox

« on: April 04, 2006, 05:53:55 pm »

Quote:
Not me.  After the eight postseason teams were finalized, I was for the White Sox if the Astros didn't win it.  The only positive thing I could think about watching the White Sox after Game Four was thinking about Cubs fans.

See, that's what I expected, but my natural reaction told a different story. That's why I was somewhat surprised.

314

Talk Zone / Re: Our Friend LOB is Back Again

« on: April 04, 2006, 04:53:59 pm »

If you want to over-extend the meaning last night's game into absurdity, look at the fact that they won a 1-0 game. I don't think they won many of those the first half of last season, so it's encouraging for them to do so right out of the gate, but then I'm a glass-half-full kind of guy.

315

Talk Zone / A somewhat surprising reaction to the Chi-Sox

« on: April 04, 2006, 04:46:16 pm »

I noticed that Cleveland is currently beating the White Sox 7-1 in the 5th inning. Freddy Garcia only lasted 4+ innings.

I was surprised to find myself as gleeful as a little girl because of this. I found myself cheering against the White Sox. Obviously, this is because of the way the Astros were swept by them in the WS, but I honestly did not expect to feel this way. Generally speaking, I have nothing against the Sox. I felt this way about the Co-ards, Braves, and steM, but those seem like obvious reactions against those teams.

But I didn't expect to develop a general dislike for the White Sox. I didn't have this feeling against the Padres or Phills (although I wasn't as into baseball then as I am now), and yet I want the White Sox to lose, and I want them to lose badly. Is anyone else having this reaction? Does it surprise you?

316

Talk Zone / Re: Dierker and Ashby Hour

« on: March 31, 2006, 05:36:06 pm »

Quote:
i am assuming you can get this one on 740 streaming on the computer

That's true, but 7 PM isn't typically a timeI'm on the computer (or listening to the radio, for that matter). If it's on XM, I could record it on my Delphi MyFi.

But I wonder how many shows they'll actually do, considering that most Astros games will be on during that time.

317

Talk Zone / Re: Dierker and Ashby Hour

« on: March 31, 2006, 05:18:29 pm »

Cool! Here's hoping it get chosen by ClearChannel for one of the new  XM Regional news/talk channels.

318

Talk Zone / Re: Chavez an Oriole

« on: March 31, 2006, 05:13:51 pm »

That sounds about right. The way things had been going of late, I can't say I'm surprised by the move. I would have to assume that Chavez starts in AAA until Hernandez and/or Lopez gets hurt.

319

Talk Zone / Re: Oswalt possibly retiring after 2010?

« on: March 31, 2006, 05:10:34 pm »

Quote:
Basically, the article says that Roy loves his home in Weir, and that he wants to go back there full time as soon as he can.  But he leaves the door open to playing longer.  He said the only thing that might guarantee him playing beyond ten years is if he has a son.  He'd like to play long enough for his boy to see him in the big leagues.  We must now all offer the Luca Brasi blessing for the Oswalts, "and may their [next] child be a masculine child."

Thanks. I figured it was something like that, but the Insider preview piqued my interest enough to find out more.

320

Talk Zone / Re: Oswalt possibly retiring after 2010?

« on: March 31, 2006, 02:51:36 pm »

Quote:
I'd say this topic is about the only thing I can think of that's less relevent that what Roger Clemens thinks about playing this season.

That depends on how you define relevance. Relevant to this season or even next? you're right, not very relevant. Relevant to MY general interest in Astros baseball, it's at least relevant enough to me to ask the question.

321

Talk Zone / Oswalt possibly retiring after 2010?

« on: March 31, 2006, 02:44:27 pm »

I don't know if this is just ESPN smoke, but their stupid Insider actually has something I might be interested in.  This preview of an article by Buster Olney indicates that Oswalt plans to reevaluate his career and possibly retire after playing for 10 years, which would be after the 2010 season. Can someone with access to ESPN Insider read the article and attempt to determine what is being said/speculated?

Here's a blurb from the preview:

Quote:
"Ten years," Roy Oswalt says, again. He glances into the rearview mirror. "My goal is to play 10 years, and then I'll figure out what to do after that."

322

Talk Zone / Re: Race for the Lid VII

« on: March 31, 2006, 12:14:43 am »

Dang. I forgot all about this until 10 minutes ago. Without looing, it's probably safe to assume that all of the reasonable numbers have at least one or two picks on them. So instead of attempting to be unique, I'll just choose my number:

95.

Put me down for a big nine-fiver.

323

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros organizational preview on MiLB.com

« on: March 07, 2006, 12:33:42 pm »

There's a good (by my relatively uninformed standards)  organizational preview over at MiLB.com. One thing I was somewhat surprised to read:

Quote:
But, don't let the parent club's recent success, culminating with last year's trip to the Fall Classic, obscure the fact that Houston has a pretty darn good farm system.

Hasn't the Astros' system been ranked pretty low recently, especially on offense? This guy makes it sound like the Astros have potential All Stars all over the place who simply need time to develop.

Maybe some of you who are better-connected to the Astros' minor league system than myself can parse the optimism from the reality.

324

Talk Zone / Re: Game called on account of birds

« on: February 16, 2006, 04:42:42 pm »

Quote:
"The bump, a simple touching of elbows, is a substitute for the filthy practice of shaking hands..."

When I was a kid, my mom taught my brothers and I to sneeze into our arms or elbow for the exact reason given in the article. I continue to do it to this day. If this elbow bump catches on, I wonder if they'll want me to stop doing that.

325

Talk Zone / Re: Drayton to testify on behalf of Ken Lay (obviously non-BB)

« on: February 10, 2006, 09:43:21 am »

Quote:
"They will try to persuade jurors that Mr. Lay was simply too good a man to be caught up in fraud at Enron."

Oh yeah, because we all know that "good" people can't do evil, evil things. Ridiculous.

326

Talk Zone / Re: Look at me!

« on: February 07, 2006, 09:55:45 am »

Quote:
That has to be an all time record for the earliest "if the Astros take a dump by the trading deadline" comment.

No way. Even as recently as last offseason, most left the Astros for dead once Beltran signed with the Mets on January 9, primarily because most of the other marquee FA were off the market, and it didn't look like the Astros would make any trades or signings to replace him. Little did they know that rookies can actually play baseball too sometimes.

I'll bet that isn't even the earliest its happened, though.

327

Talk Zone / Re: Per Kenny R over at FoxSports

« on: February 06, 2006, 12:15:51 pm »

Quote:
They just gotta avoid a lemon.

When talking about a back-rotation pitcher, that's often easier said than done.

328

Talk Zone / Re: Football isover baseball fans thoughts turn to spring traing

« on: February 06, 2006, 12:13:20 pm »

Quote:
I couldn't agree more.  I've been thinking about Spring Training since October 26th.

Same here. My sports world essentially shuts down November through February. I might pay look around at football or hockey, but it's usually no more than a glance. That's why I'm looking forward to the WBC. More games, interesting structure. It's still baseball, just done in a different way. Maybe it won't work, but the idea sounds good. (And the FIFA model isn't a bad one to follow.)

329

Talk Zone / Re: Look at me!

« on: February 06, 2006, 12:05:23 pm »

Quote:

We'll see these stories all the freakin way until the trade deadline.

And well into next year's FA season.

330

Talk Zone / Re: The Rays, by any other name....

« on: January 27, 2006, 05:48:57 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
are still the Rays.

I'm sure it will help.

This stuff is superficial.  Getting rid of Namioli, and Chuck LaMar, makes them vastly different from what they have been up to now.

And better, I'm pretty sure.  Anyway, check back mid-season.

What's the vibe in the Tampa Bay area about the new ownership? Do people see them eventually making them competitive and really developing the franchise? Any talk of getting a decent stadium?

I've believed for years, even before they got the team, that the area would be a great place for a team. The ownership, however, just destroyed most chances of success. I'd love to see them become at least respectable.

331

Talk Zone / Re: Heavy D a Nat

« on: January 27, 2006, 05:11:59 pm »

DWard must really be desparate for work if he is going to Malaysia to play. They aren't even in the World Baseball Championship!

332

Talk Zone / Re: Redding inks minor league deal with ChiSox

« on: January 23, 2006, 11:41:16 pm »

Quote:
I love how Redding falling short of expectations automatically make him some sort of nutcase. Maybe he's just not as good as everyone once believed. His once dominating stuff is anything but these days. You're not going to get away with a 90mph flat fastball regardless of whether or not you're a nutcase.

It wasn't just his failure to fulfill expectations. Even a greater factor was the pure gold that often flowed from his mouth, often at the most inopportune time. Instead of keeping his mouth shut and allow others to speculate about his sanity, he opened it and removed all doubt. I'm sure there are others around here who could recount the frivolity better than me.

333

Talk Zone / Re: Rosenthal predicts NL Central

« on: January 23, 2006, 11:31:00 pm »

Quote:
why on earth do you care?

Because in January, it's good, sporting fun. Until games are played, this is the best I got.

334

Talk Zone / Re: Rosenthal predicts NL Central

« on: January 23, 2006, 10:37:10 am »

Quote:

Quote:
Isn't this par for the course? When was the last time the Astros were picked by the majority to win their division?

Hmmm.... I think they've been a majority pick to win their division a fair amount over the past 10 years.

Not that I've seen. They've contended most of the last 10 years, and a few preseason predictions have them doing well, but recently, the Cardinals and Cubs seem to get most of the preseason votes. I'm not saying that they get slighted; only that other teams often look better on paper in January.

I would guess that 1998 or 1999 might have been the last time that the Astros were the odds-on favorites, but I doubt there's a way to verify such a thing. My main point, though, was that the Astros didn't make a lot of noise, so they aren't going to get the publicity, and I don't have a problem with that.

335

Talk Zone / Re: Rosenthal predicts NL Central

« on: January 22, 2006, 09:36:09 pm »

Isn't this par for the course? When was the last time the Astros were picked by the majority to win their division? The Astros don't have a lot of "self-promoting" players and players that get a lot of play on ESPN (Roger being one glaring exception). We should not underestimate the effect that the media has on sportswriters and even baseball insiders. They haven't heard much from the Astros this offseason, outside of the Clemens saga, so they assume that they haven't done much this off-season to improve. The Cardinals and Cubs have each brought in some players, albeit relatively low-impact players, and made a little noise, so they might get a bit more attention than they should at this point. Improving health and continuous development of young players get little air time and, therefore, get little weight with predictors. For me, that's what makes pre-season predictions so much fun: You can read them, smile, and say, "We'll see."

Frankly, though, I didn't read anything in that article that I unequivicolly disagreed with. No, he didn't mention the health of Berkman or the potential improvement of the younger players, but he didn't mention a lot of different aspects of the other teams in the division either. (It's only one column, after all.) He called the Cardinals the favorite. At this point, I have to agree, although I know the Astros won't be far behind. Remember that in 2005, most picked the Astros to finish 3rd and some picked them 4th in the Central in 2005 (behind the Cardinals, Cubs, and Reds). We all saw how that turned out.

336

Talk Zone / Re: anyone with insight as to Clemens' view of the bagwell saga

« on: January 22, 2006, 07:56:59 pm »

Quote:
Does the freeing up of 15million from bagwell hurt or help the idea of Clemens coming back. I know Clemens talked about Bags as a valued friend, but as Jim R has stated Clemens' best friend is Roger. Not that we would know exactly, but what does the zone think about the implications of roger resigning with Bags' insurance money?

IMO, one is completely independent of the other. When Roger decides whether or not to play, if he wants to return to the Astros, Drayton will find the money, regardless of the Bagwell situation.

337

Talk Zone / Re: Cuba allowed to play

« on: January 21, 2006, 12:16:19 pm »

Quote:
once again mlb shows its magnanamouness.. i thought they would cave and make a buck

I don't think I quite understand what you're saying. Are you saying that giving into the US Treasury Department would have been caving? If so, how would that have made them money?

Either way, I'm glad Cuba was granted permission to play. This tournament needed the best teams to have any hope of legitimacy, and having won the major international competitions most recently (Baseball World Cup and the 2004 Olympics), Cuba had to be involved.

338

Talk Zone / Re: Poll on sports popularity

« on: January 20, 2006, 05:42:47 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Although MLB has yet to go the way of the NBA, I'm afraid that MLB's own arrogance may ultimately bring it down too, if it hasn't begun to do so already.

MLB is more popular now than it's ever been.

Not according to the poll cited above.

339

Talk Zone / Re: Poll on sports popularity

« on: January 20, 2006, 05:24:58 pm »

Quote:
But the NBA has nothing to blame but it's own arrogance for its meteoric decline.

Although MLB has yet to go the way of the NBA, I'm afraid that MLB's own arrogance may ultimately bring it down too, if it hasn't begun to do so already.

340

Talk Zone / Re: I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it!

« on: January 20, 2006, 05:16:48 pm »

I don't know about the details regarding HS baseball in Houston, but how can you say that Private schools have a smaller pool of kids than the public schools? They aren't restricted to school districts and they can offer atheletic scholarships as recruitment tools if they want to, which public schools can't do. They often have better funding than public schools if they have a good base of alumni and donors. In fact, that's the basis for minor grumbles here in Michigan where some public school parents are upset that their kids compete in the same districts as private schools, who generally do better in football and basketball (the only HS sports that count for anything around here).

I know that in many parts of the country, the private schools absolutely dominate HS sports, especially basketball, but baseball can apply as well.

Again, I don't know much about the school systems or HS athletics in Houston, but the fact that a school is private doesn't necessarily mean that it has greater difficulty competing; if anything, sometimes it means the opposite.

341

Talk Zone / Re: Latest on the World Baseball Classic

« on: January 20, 2006, 04:56:56 pm »

I, for one, care. I'm not exactly what you'd call "patriotic", but for some reason, I always get into international competition. I'm not a Soccer fan, but I enjoy the World Cup. I enjoy certain Olympic events. I'm sure that I'd follow the WBC and be interested even if I wasn't a baseball fan. The fact that it is baseball makes it even more appealing to me.

I really don't care about the names, although I do want to best atheletes available. I'll watch because I love baseball, and I enjoy international competition. So, yeah, I care.

342

Talk Zone / Re: Lidge

« on: January 19, 2006, 09:49:58 am »

Quote:

Quote:
Friends tried to comfort him, but it didn't do much good. After posting a 0.55 earned-run average in 10 career playoff appearances before the 2005 NLCS, Lidge finished with a 4.26 career ERA for postseason duty.

Not to quibble with a USAToday article, but this is incorrect. His career postseason ERA is 2.52 now. With 38 K in 25 innings.

Although it's sloppy and mistaken says "career ERA", I think that statement meant to say that he had a 4.26 for the 2005 postseason.

343

Talk Zone / Re: Carlos Hernandez

« on: January 17, 2006, 02:45:52 pm »

Quote:
It was possible that letting Hidalgo go at that time would've hurt recruitment in VZ.

How would that have hurt VZ recruitment? Abreu and Hidalgo are both from VZ. The Astros just bet on the wrong horse.

344

Talk Zone / Carlos Hernandez

« on: January 16, 2006, 04:29:15 pm »

From the  Footer mailbag (please ignore all of the other ignorant questions):

 

Quote:
The Astros have been impressed with [Hernandez's] progress this year at winter ball, given his rise in velocity and improved sharpness on his curveball.

Rise in velocity? Hasn't that been the problem with him since his injury? Could this be a sign that he's finally recovering and could still develop into a solid starter? Am I making too much of this?

345

Talk Zone / Re: Baseball statistics: history or property?

« on: January 16, 2006, 04:07:00 pm »

Quote:
Oh, I don't think they want to stifle anything.  I think MLB (read Bud Selig) wants it's piece of the pie.  I have a good friend who walked away with $1000 in a fantasy league.  Something tells me who ever runs that league made more than that.  Ol' Bud may be an ass-wipe in many ways, but he knows a fruit ripe for the picking when he see's it.

Blaming Bud is easy, and he probably deserves much of the blame, but I believe this would still be a problem even if he wasn't driving the ship.

But what MLB fails to recognize is that the entire "pie" could theoretically grow if they promoted themselves better, and this kind of thing does nothing to that end. In my opinion, it's the macro equivalent to trying to make a quick buck without having the patience to make a more profitable long-term investment.

346

Talk Zone / Re: Trade brewing

« on: January 16, 2006, 02:04:32 pm »

Quote:
Deals between two teams is hard enough, it gets more complicated when it is three teams.  When they originally had *four* teams involved, it was highly unlikely any major league general manager was involved in that one.  More likely a deal dreamed up in the head of one internet site or some sort that likes to throw crap on the wall to see if it sticks.  Run away when the deals are complicated and have more than two teams involved.  A competent major league general manager would never get himself entangled in such a mess.

That's right. I think most of the time when a three-team deal actually gets done, it's probably more appropriate to think of them as two two-team deals that happened back-to-back involving similar players. I think the Beltran deal in 2004 was like that. I may be mistaken, but I think Dotel was a Royal for an hour or so.

347

Talk Zone / Re: How much for Ensberg?

« on: January 16, 2006, 01:51:23 pm »

Quote:
I've been meaning to ask for a long time, but what the hell is your avatar?

It's Beck from his  Ghettochip Malfunction ("Hell Yes" Remix) music video. I think I'll probably change it soon, though.

348

Talk Zone / Re: Baseball statistics: history or property?

« on: January 16, 2006, 01:47:07 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Fantasy league company sues for free rights to batting averages

"Major League Baseball has claimed that intellectual property law makes it illegal for fantasy league operators to commercially exploit the identities and statistical profiles of big league players."

The utter stupidity of Major League Baseball in taking a move to stifle a form of entertainment that draws massive attention to its product is almost incomprehensible.

I continue to marvel at the way MLB continues to do this, (see also MLB's restriction of online broadcasting rights). I also marvel at the fact that it's as popular as it is, given that MLB does everything it can to sabotage itself. It's like they think that self-promotion can only be done at the expense of profits.

349

Talk Zone / Re: Bagwell & Manny

« on: January 16, 2006, 01:39:52 pm »

Quote:
See Jasonact's thread on how much is due Manny.

Don't bring me into this. Bagwell will retire as an Astro. Period. Even if the Astros wanted to trade him, and even if he wanted to be traded (neither of which being true), they wouldn't be able to get any takers whatsoever, muchless for Manny Ramirez.

350

Talk Zone / Re: ESPN.com story on possible Bagwell retirement

« on: January 13, 2006, 10:51:53 am »

The article on Astros.com (I think) indicated that they could file a claim on the policy and then take a wait-and-see stance during ST. I'm not sure how that would work, though.

351

Talk Zone / Re: How much for Ensberg?

« on: January 13, 2006, 10:46:46 am »

Quote:
Can we get an insurance policy on wrist injuries on him?

Sure they can. I don't know if they have or not, though. Their desire to do so probably has to do with how much of a risk they think injury is and how valuable Ensberg is. As much as I like Ensberg, I doubt he's reached "must insure" status, even if it is a high risk.

352

Talk Zone / Re: ESPN.com story on possible Bagwell retirement

« on: January 13, 2006, 10:42:59 am »

Quote:
"Apparently, the Astros wanted something now. It's very easy to say now 'Oh, it doesn't look like he can play.' I've never looked like I could play (at this point) in the last four years."

Surely the Astros recognize this, right? I mean, I know that they have this insurance deadline, but what exactly were they hoping to learn from this examination?

353

Talk Zone / Re: Abreu almost traded?

« on: January 13, 2006, 10:37:54 am »

Quote:
it's also a stretch to think the Red Sox would ever think about making that deal- after all, Abreu is probably just as overpaid as Manny.

Not quite:

Abreu
06:$13M, 07:$15M, 08:$16M club option ($2M buyout)

Manny
06:$19M, 07:$18M, 08:$20M, 09:$20M club option

Source

And I'd rather have Abreu anyway, even if Manny's stats are a little better. If either of them are overpaid, it's Manny.

354

Talk Zone / Re: ESPN.com story on possible Bagwell retirement

« on: January 13, 2006, 10:28:48 am »

No way. If I'm Bagwell, I'm doing exactly what he's doing: working as hard as I can to come back to the Astros. Sure he wants the money, but that's not the only motivation. Besides, at this point in his career, he doesn't want to change teams, muchless changing leagues. He has said before that he in no way wants to go to the AL to DH. If he can't play the field, he won't play.

Besides, the Astros and Barry Axelrod both refuted the reports that the Astros asked him to retire  here (probably already posted either in NYCU or elsewhere in the TZ).

355

Talk Zone / Re: OK

« on: January 05, 2006, 05:14:13 pm »

Quote:
Texas A&M; we never have the occasion to light anything.

Has A&M started doing the bonfire thing again? Being out of state and not connected to A&M in ANY way, I hadn't heard anything since the tragedy a few years ago.

356

Talk Zone / Re: OK

« on: January 05, 2006, 10:41:01 am »

Quote:
liet it oranage!

Speaking of which, if anyone finds a picture of the tower lit orange or can take and post one yourself, let us know. That's something I want to see.

 Edit: Well  here's the Statesman's photo gallery with a few good shots.

357

Talk Zone / Re: What the Orioles turned down

« on: January 04, 2006, 06:03:30 pm »

Quote:
"Two Orioles club sources said Tuesday that Baltimore won't accept Boston's offer of outfielder Manny Ramirez, pitcher Matt Clement and cash for disgruntled shortstop Miguel Tejada..."
The Link

I think if it wasn't within the division, Baltimore probably would have done that deal. Everything I've read indicates that the fact they are division rivals is the main reason Tejada hasn't been signed, sealed, and delivered to Boston already.

358

Talk Zone / Re: Meaningless but still interesting info about the Dodgers

« on: January 04, 2006, 12:03:34 pm »

Oops. Actually, I forgot that Gagne's been with the team longer than Perez (7 seasons). Still, my point still stands: lots of turnover.

359

Talk Zone / Meaningless but still interesting info about the Dodgers

« on: January 04, 2006, 11:59:03 am »

I was looking at ESPN.com's  projected starters for 2006, and I noticed that the Dodgers have had even more turnover recently than I thought. They list 8 position players, 5 starting pitchers, and 1 closer. None of the LA position players were even with the club (majors or minors) as recently as 2004. Only 3 SP (Penny, Perez, and Jackson) and closer (Gagne) were with the team in 2004, and Penny and Jackson combined to start only 8 games for them. Odalis Perez has been with the team the longest of the players listed with only 4 seasons with LA.

Add that to the turnover in management recently (yes, I realize that's related), and you have almost an entirely different ballclub from only 18 months ago. As a fan of the Astros, who highly value loyalty, that was very surprising to see on another team.

360

Talk Zone / Re: Interesting Facts about the offense last season

« on: December 23, 2005, 01:13:08 am »

You're absolutely right. The offense sucked in April and May, which is the main reason they fell to 15-30. They picked it up for some obvious reasons and some not so obvious ones. IMO, they ended up doing fairy well offensively (until the NLCS, where the offense was just enough and the WS where it almost disappeared).

That said, I would be thrilled if they were able to get another good bat, but I'll still feel good about the team even if they don't.

361

Talk Zone / Re: Next year's offense

« on: December 22, 2005, 02:18:19 am »

Quote:
Do you presume from Garner's statements about not expecting the young guys to struggle as much next year to mean that we ain't getting another bat?  I know it's slim pickins on free agents.

Although I don't know this for sure, of course, I don't get the impression that Garner is a huge player in player acquisition. I take that comment to mean nothing about whether or not the Astros will acquire anyone. Take it at face value: the young guys who contributed last year will be back in 2006 and should improve.

362

Talk Zone / Re: Brad Lidge

« on: December 22, 2005, 02:11:28 am »

Have you ever actually seen a MLB trade? All of those you suggest are either bad for the Astros (i.e. not getting enough in return for Lidge), bad for the other team (no way they'd do the deal), or both. Please read  Stark's column and try to stay away from the MLB GM applications.

363

Talk Zone / Re: Rondell White

« on: December 20, 2005, 02:47:57 pm »

Quote:
This was pin-wheel-esque!  I've read it, re-read it and still haven't a clue what your point is.  Is it obvious I'm not in the 3% club?

My point is that the jury is still out on Pupura as a GM, IMO, but I have no idea what the "3% club" is. Putting together a team that wins consistently is the mark of a good GM. He did it once without needing to make any big moves, but he probably won't be able to do that forever. Big moves will probably need to be made in order to consistently win, thereby proving himself as a GM. Clear enough?

Quote:
And I define winning as winning more than you lose.  If you can make year to year improvement, you are a bad-ass (or at least, that's how I would define it, were I wanting to define what I meant???).

We agree. That's how I would define it as well. I was only pointing out that other people would define it differently (i.e playoff appearances, WS championships, etc.), and I think they would have a legitimate argument, even though I would disagree.

[by]

364

Talk Zone / Re: Rondell White

« on: December 19, 2005, 10:32:46 am »

Quote:

Quote:
I think he'll need to eventually make some big moves to prove himself,...

No.  He proves himself by how many winning teams he puts on the field not the number or perceived quality of moves he makes.  Right now he stands at 1 winning team and 0 losing teams.

First of all, that depends on how you define a "winning team". If it's by winning championships, as many people would define it, then he has none. If it's almost anything else, then you would be right.

Second of all, the job of a GM is to build a winning team, not to "execute" the actual winning on the field; that is the job of the players and coaches. I think it's safe to say that in this age in order to build a "winning team" (especially one that consistently wins, which could also be part of the GM job description), a few big moves should be made.

Notice that in my original post, I did not say that he would prove himself by his big moves. Rather, he would need to make some big moves to prove himself. i.e. He would need to make some big moves in order to build a winning team, thereby proving himself as a GM. I'm apologize for resorting to semantics, which I generally consider unproductive in discussions, but I think this more accurately represents what I meant than how you may have interpretted it.

365

Talk Zone / Re: Rondell White

« on: December 18, 2005, 02:48:03 pm »

Quote:
Let's just hope Pup's got one up his sleeve.

And it's NOT something he is doing (or not doing) that has prevented the Astros from improving the team.

Hunsicker spoiled me.

I think it's much too soon in Pupura's career as a GM to judge him yet. True, he hasn't made any blockbuster moves, but there really haven't been many to make. The trade market at last season's deadline was far from engrossing, and this year's free agents have been equally underwhelming. I think he'll need to eventually make some big moves to prove himself, but I don't think that time has necessarily come. If anything, I give him a lot of credit for not making a bad move simply for the sake of making a move.

Bottom line: the offseason isn't over yet, and even if no big moves are made before the season starts, I think you'd really have to wait another year or so before accurately judging him as a GM.

366

Talk Zone / Re: Nomar a Dodger

« on: December 18, 2005, 02:39:30 pm »

There were few of good reasons for him to choose LA. Playing close to home, Dodgers on paper look much better than last year when a lot of key players were injured (and in the NL West, it's not like they don't have a chance)-- to name two. Frankly, when it was reported that he was choosing between 4 teams, one of which being the Dodgers, I thought they probably had the best chance of signing him.

Oh well. Move on and make him regret it.

367

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Ryan preseason camp expanding

« on: December 17, 2005, 12:05:18 am »

Quote:
Saw this on MLB.com

The Link

So is that thing going to become like what they call "mini camps" in the NFL? I thought it was about getting some good one-on-one instruction, but that paints it as almost an instrution and/or workout time.

368

Talk Zone / Re: Willy T

« on: December 16, 2005, 06:04:38 pm »

Quote:
Maybe he was hitting over .350 for the month.

Meaning what?

[history]

369

Talk Zone / Re: For everyone who suggested trading Lidge/Everett for Tejada

« on: December 16, 2005, 05:59:55 pm »

Quote:
"Ever-frugal Astros owner Drayton McLane..." You know, I think so people get an idea in their head and never let it go because they don't know where the next one's coming from.  The Astros started last season 12th in payroll.  How the hell much should they spend?  They gave Clemens the most money in history for a pitcher.  They would have given Beltran $105 million.  What's the main problem with the payroll now?  Too much money to too few players. Who's the last player the Astros wouldn't pay for, Hampton? shit.

I agree that Drayton's "frugality" is a non-trait that people won't let go of, but I can't see many teams taking on Tejada's contract. That's not quite, but almost, like paying Clemens's 2005 salary each of the next 4 years. Keeping in mind that Lidge and Everett made less than $1 million last year COMBINED, that's a jump in payroll that even the most free-spending owner might think twice about.

370

Talk Zone / Re: Willy T

« on: December 16, 2005, 05:51:55 pm »

Quote:
Reoccurance of the Hip flexor he suffered from in 2004.

That makes sense. Was that stated somewhere as the reason, or are you speculating?

371

Talk Zone / Re: Willy T

« on: December 16, 2005, 05:46:41 pm »

Quote:
Taveras, a notoriously slow healer, strained left hamstring in late May.  From June to the end of the season he hit over .300 in every month except Sept.  3bs began to play on top of him, yet he still beat out many infield hits.

Yeah, but the drop-off in SB attempts and bunt hit attempts seemed to happen in August or September, not May or June. Is there any evidence that the strained hamstring had a significant flare-up late in the season? Maybe it was a strategic reason? Maybe he lost some confidence?

372

Talk Zone / Re: For everyone who suggested trading Lidge/Everett for Tejada

« on: December 16, 2005, 05:42:33 pm »

Quote:
"I would like to see JOHAN SANTANA TRADED TO THE CARDINALS FOR ALBERT PUJOLS. I think Pujols is the most overrated player in the history of baseball. I live in St. Louis and I watch Pujols choke more in clutch situations than any other player on the team. I want the Cardinals to get rid of his salary and start to play some other bum in his position! What are the chances of this trade going through???"

I know. Funny, huh?

373

Talk Zone / For everyone who suggested trading Lidge/Everett for Tejada

« on: December 16, 2005, 05:30:37 pm »

Stark's latest column essentially looks at the feasability (or lack thereof) of some of the fan-suggested trades this offseason, including the suggestion that I heard from a number of Astros fans of how to get Tejada in Blood 'n' Mud.

It's actually a pretty funny read.

 The Link

374

Talk Zone / Re: Willy T

« on: December 16, 2005, 05:20:14 pm »

Absolutely. I really like the potential that this guy has, but he certainly has work to do on every aspect of his game. We have to remember that he made the jump from AA to the majors and was STILL a major ROY candidate. That's saying something. The reports I read talk about how "teachable" he is. With his talent, teachable is perhaps the best thing that can be said about him.

I was very surprised, however, to see him essentially stop using his speed at the end of the season and in the playoffs. His SB attempts drastically dropped off (4 SB in 5 attempts in Sept and Oct including playoffs), and he almost never attempted to bunt for hits late in the year. Is there a reasonable theory out there as to why this aspect of the offense disappeared?

375

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens to decide among four teams

« on: December 16, 2005, 02:35:04 pm »

Quote:
Here's how Clemens describes these teams interest,

"They have all paid their respects, but at the same time, we're not talking to any of them," Clemens said.
The Link

Either he's dead or the Pope.

I have to admit that's an odd choice of words, even for an egomaniac like Clemens. For most of the time, I have thought that Clemens's ego was apparent to everyone but Roger himself. Now, "Paid their respects"? That tells me that he knows how people see him (i.e. as an egomaniac), and he is purposely feeding it, for some unknown reason.

376

Talk Zone / Re: Real reason Astros offense wasn't hot in 05

« on: December 16, 2005, 01:14:57 pm »

Good assessment. Good luck trying to get people to buy it, though. Some Astros fans out there considered the re-signing of Ausmus as an offensive death sentence for 2006 and especially 2007, and nothing you or I can say will change their minds.

In addition to Ensberg and Bagwell hopefully overcoming their 2005 injuries, I'm hoping we begin to some improvement from Taveras, specifically in his discipline at the plate. His BB/K ratio was atrocious last year (1:4). Imagine the threat he would be if he turned that ratio around or just evened it out a little. (A few more doubles would be nice too, but I won't get greedy.)

377

Talk Zone / Re: Fuhget about Stark, what did the Count say?

« on: December 16, 2005, 12:58:38 pm »

Quote:
As a No. 3 hitter from 2002-2004, Nomar batted .300/.344/.511.

Does he become Babe Ruth if he bats No. 2?

Be that as it may, if he signs with the Astros, No. 2 might not be a bad spot for him in the order. That might be where he is most useful given the other guys in the order. Of course, then where does Biggio go? That's why he'll probably start out hitting 3rd.

378

Talk Zone / Gettin' busy in Kansas City

« on: December 16, 2005, 12:43:48 pm »

Looks like the Royals went shopping. They announced this morning that they have signed Scott Elarton, Mark Grudzielanek, Doug Mientkiewicz and Paul Bako. I suspect those are major signings for a franchise like that.

The Link

379

Talk Zone / Re: Jon Garland may be available via trade

« on: December 16, 2005, 12:21:44 pm »

Of the three pitchers the Astros got in the Wagner deal, Astacio was touted as the one with the highest ceiling, and I don't think he's fallen too far from that projection, if at all. I think they'll give him a few more chances, and I think many people expect him to potentially have the type of 2006 season that solidifies him as a solid #3 or 4 guy in the rotation.

Frankly, I'll be surprised if the Astros make a move for another starter, despite the reports that they're in the market for a veteran pitcher. I believe the rotation at the start of the season will look something like this:

Oswalt
Pettitte
Backe
Astacio
Wandy or Taylor (most likely), but maybe Hirsh or Nieve

380

Talk Zone / Re: Jon Garland may be available via trade

« on: December 16, 2005, 12:11:26 pm »

Quote:
Have the Astros given up on Buchholtz?

I can't say for sure, of course, but I think their patience is wearing thin. I think after his injury last year, that might have bought him another season to prove himself. I bet if he doesn't show something more this year, resembling what they hoped he'd develop into, they're probably done with him (ala Carlos Hernandez).

381

Talk Zone / Re: Jake Looper

« on: December 16, 2005, 12:02:57 pm »

I think Looper will do pretty well in that role, at least at first. I thought he did a good job as a set-up guy for the Marlins a few years ago. The ninth inning, as we all know, is a completely different story.

Oh yeah, and Jocketty totally "took one for the team".

382

Talk Zone / Free Agents drawing interest from the Astros

« on: December 16, 2005, 01:11:45 am »

Quote:
The Astros are also considering free agents Nomar Garciaparra and Reggie Sanders to a lesser degree than White, but with Garciaparra (who is also being courted by the Yankees and Indians) seeking at least $5 million and Sanders wanting a three-year deal, neither may be a financial fit for the cost-conscious Astros. The Astros are also considering outfielder Juan Encarnacion.

 The Link

What? Sanders? Encarnacion? When did that happen? I agree, though, that White is the most likely option at this point.

383

Talk Zone / Re: Fuhget about Stark, what did the Count say?

« on: December 16, 2005, 01:02:02 am »

Quote:
And then there were two...

The Link

(perhaps)

If that report is to be believed, why would Nomar prefer maybe playing LF for the Astros (although at this point I don't think it's clear where he'd play) over playing RF for the Indians? Either there's more to that than what was reported or the Astros are "less optimistic" as well but just not saying so, as is their custom.

384

Talk Zone / Re: Idea...

« on: December 16, 2005, 12:47:43 am »

Quote:
I'm really liking the idea of the Astros picking up either Garciaparra or RWhite via FAgency.  

Is there any chance that the club might take a shot on Sidney Ponson as well?  I know he's had character issues, but he seems like another player that the Astros could sign to a 1-year, incentive laden deal with not a whole lot of risk....all the while improving the team (by how much we won't know till they play'm) without giving up our pitching in a trade?

Ponson is HUGELY overrated. I wouldn't sign him to a $2 contract. Any of the guys already under contract would be better than him.

385

Talk Zone / Jon Garland may be available via trade

« on: December 15, 2005, 05:54:13 pm »

The Link

Any chance the Astros go after him? How might he fit in with Houston? He had a great 2005, but he was pretty average before that. Given what the article says about Chicago's needs, I can't immediately think of what the Astros could offer for him.

386

Talk Zone / Re: Mets hype

« on: December 15, 2005, 05:46:42 pm »

As long as there is a baseball team in NY, that team (or teams) will be overhyped. I'm fine with it, though. It's all the more entertaining when they fall on their asses.

387

Talk Zone / Re: Fuhget about Stark, what did the Count say?

« on: December 15, 2005, 01:13:49 pm »

Quote:
Didn't see this posted elsewhere, but he was on 610's Night Shift last night.  Purpura, that is.  He said he could play short or third for the Astros, and that *Nomar* himself expressed interest in playing left field because he felt like he had the athleticism to excel in the outfield.

Did he mention anything about his health? That seems to be the main concern with Nomar at this time, but I haven't heard anything about what we can expect health-wise in 2006. I'm sure he'll go through a physical before signing a contract, but is there any word at this time?

388

Talk Zone / Re: Happy 40th birthday Biggio!!!

« on: December 14, 2005, 03:01:40 pm »

He still looks like a baby to me. Youngest-looking 40-year-old I've seen.

389

Talk Zone / Re: Innuresting..........

« on: December 14, 2005, 02:10:46 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

I'm supprised there is so much positive posts about White, considering this a mostly a defense first forum.

Did he hurt his throwing shoulder? So if he had a weak arm before the injury...

Sounds like a non-roster invitee type person to me.

He had left shoulder surgery, throws right.  I think you've mischaracterized this forum.  Defense is an integral part of baseball, does mentioning that in the context of the ultimate strategy of baseball, score more runs than your opponent, makes us stand out?

Yes.

What makes this forum stand out is that it often attempts to give equal weight to defense and offense, whereas the majority of baseball forums give 75% or more attention to offense. In that regard, it does stand out as defensive-oriented forum, but in a good way. I don't think, however, that it is a "defense first forum".

It doesn't give equal weight to defense and offense.  There are "defense-first" positions and "offense-first" positions.  This forum stands out because most recognize the difference.

That's what I mean by equal weight: recognizing the defensive necessity catcher while also acknowledging the offensive necessity of 1B, for example.

390

Talk Zone / Re: She is, She really is.

« on: December 14, 2005, 02:07:53 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:
And Jeff Bagwell instead of Chris Burke.

Although the reports are good, I think that's still yet to be seen.

Nah, he's as good as back.

I know that the Astros are looking at acquiring mid-level players (i.e. White, Mench), as opposed to top-tier players, and Bagwell lifting weights is a fabulous sign, but what makes you so sure? I'd like to share your optimism.

391

Talk Zone / Re: Innuresting..........

« on: December 14, 2005, 02:04:22 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

I'm supprised there is so much positive posts about White, considering this a mostly a defense first forum.

Did he hurt his throwing shoulder? So if he had a weak arm before the injury...

Sounds like a non-roster invitee type person to me.

He had left shoulder surgery, throws right.  I think you've mischaracterized this forum.  Defense is an integral part of baseball, does mentioning that in the context of the ultimate strategy of baseball, score more runs than your opponent, makes us stand out?

Yes.

What makes this forum stand out is that it often attempts to give equal weight to defense and offense, whereas the majority of baseball forums give 75% or more attention to offense. In that regard, it does stand out as defensive-oriented forum, but in a good way. I don't think, however, that it is a "defense first forum".

392

Talk Zone / Re: She is, She really is.

« on: December 14, 2005, 01:58:45 pm »

Quote:
And Jeff Bagwell instead of Chris Burke.

Although the reports are good, I think that's still yet to be seen.

393

Talk Zone / Re: What a Mench

« on: December 14, 2005, 01:56:33 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
Although Mench isn't exactly the kind of impact player I was hoping they would go after (low RBI totals), he's still young and could still develop into a good RBI guy, I guess. I'm still hoping they'll be able to get a solid 90+ RBI guy.

I think focusing so narrowly on the player's RBIs is one of the worst ways to decide whether to acquire him.  Look at whether he hits for average, for power, whether he draws walks -- heck, you can even look at how he hits with runners on and in scoring position, i.e., RBI situations.  But defining his impact by whether he's "a solid 90+ RBI guy," especially when you're looking to insert him into a different line-up and perhaps a different place in the line-up, possibly with different playing time -- I don't see how you can just look at his RBIs and make that analysis.

I didn't mean to imply that at all. I don't know nearly enough to say whether or not I think they should get him. My only point is based on the belief that another good RBI producer was the primary missing link in the 2005 offense. I hoped that the Astros would get someone who, among other things, might be able to drive in some runs. They still might, whether it's a marquee name or not. I also understand that the dynamics of a particular team affect the RBI totals of an individual player.

I didn't mean to narrow down my criteria to a single statistic. I only mentioned that as an example of what I hope the Astros add, whether that's in the form of a single player or the development of a number of players. I completely understand that there are plenty of other factors, statistical and otherwise, that go into the evaluation of a player.

394

Talk Zone / Re: and/or?

« on: December 14, 2005, 10:24:15 am »

Quote:
I wonder if the Astros are looking at Lowe, Clement, or Vazquez? All owed about what Morris got (Yanks are paying Arizona $3 mil/ year for Vazquez).

No for Vasquez. He's about to be traded to the WS Champs.

I don't know about Lowe, but Boston has been shopping Clement throughout the offseason. The Astros might be able to pick him up without losing much.

395

Talk Zone / Re: Bud Girl should be happy.......

« on: December 13, 2005, 05:20:24 pm »

Quote:
her fantasy to stay in Houston for 2 more years. Didn't hear the terms yet.

 The Link

396

Talk Zone / Re: and/or?

« on: December 13, 2005, 05:19:12 pm »

Quote:
From what I've heard, I'd expect Nomar to land somewhere with no more than a 1 year deal worth 5 mil plus incentives.

If that's true and he returns to form, that would be a great deal, but who knows if he'll be able to return to what he once was? I haven't read anything confirming that he'll ever be the same player.

397

Talk Zone / Re: But didn't he realize?!

« on: December 13, 2005, 05:13:18 pm »

Official press release from the Astros website:

The Link

Edit: Oops. That's the link to the Malony article.  Here is the press release. I seem to cut and paste at random when I have multiple web pages open.

[Brad Ausmus]

398

Talk Zone / Laugher rumor of the day

« on: December 13, 2005, 03:12:20 pm »

 The Link

Quote:
The Sox are said to be interested in veterans Ken Huckaby and Brad Ausmus as possible replacements for No. 2 catcher Doug Mirabelli , who was traded to San Diego last week for second baseman Mark Loretta.

Anyone else think Ausmus becomes a backup in 2006?

[Dirtbags]

399

Talk Zone / Re: World Baseball Classic: Do you care?

« on: December 13, 2005, 09:27:13 am »

Quote:
My guess is one of Gallo's parents was born in Italy, though I couldn't find any links to validate that. I did discover that Long Beach State's mascot is the Dirtbags, which I never realized but think is kind of funny.

Actually, they're the 49ers. Dirtbags is an unofficial nickname reserved just for the baseball team.

400

Talk Zone / Re: Matt Morris to the Giants

« on: December 12, 2005, 05:55:58 pm »

Quote:
Did the Astros show any interest in Morris?  I just know I will have to explain to my dh why the Astros didn't "go after this guy".

I don't know how much interest the Astros showed, but I'm sure they weighed his potential asking price and percieved competence with what the Astros already have or could get for cheaper. 3 years/ $27 mill isn't exactly cheap for a #3 starter, especially when considering his 4+ ERA last year.

My guess is that the Astros' interest extended no further than seeing what other offers he had on the table. They probably had no desire to match the existing offers, and I'm glad they didn't.

Teams are overspending for pitching like crazy this off-season. Morris is an example of that, and I'm glad the Astros aren't getting sucked into it.

401

Talk Zone / Re: World Baseball Classic: Do you care?

« on: December 12, 2005, 05:44:32 pm »

I'm sure it will be. Rumor has it that ESPN is the most likely network, but I don't think anything's been finalized or formally announced.

402

Talk Zone / Re: What type of price tag will Dontrelle bring?

« on: December 12, 2005, 10:07:35 am »

They've made it known that Willis and Cabrera aren't going anywhere. They're hoping to sign Willis to an extension soon and lock him in for a while.

[he]

403

Talk Zone / Re: Lopez...

« on: December 12, 2005, 10:05:41 am »

Quote:
which is why he probably won't go anywhere this offseason

By he, I meant Abreu. I think Lidge could still be traded if the Astros got enough offense in retutn.

404

Talk Zone / Re: Tejada

« on: December 12, 2005, 09:33:11 am »

Quote:

Quote:
I don't think he's really available

If you've got a player demanding a trade, the club will definitely listen to offers.  If he really wants out, I'm sure management realizes that it's not in the club's best interest to keep him around.

I don't completely agree with that. Not every player throws a temper tantrum if their demands aren't met. Lots of players make trade demands that are never met. It's probably a moot point, however, because Tejada has reportedly  backed down from his "demand". If I was a betting man, I'd bet that both Tejada and Abreu begin (and probably finish) the season with their current teams.

405

Talk Zone / Re: ESPN Rocket Rumor

« on: December 12, 2005, 09:25:44 am »

Stark basically said that if Clemens pitches for any MLB team next season, it will almost certainly be for a team in Texas. My guess is that if he decides to play, it will be the Astros beginning in June or late May. Yankees and Red Sox won't offer him the same perks to return (and really can't do so), and the Rangers are probably still too far away from seriously competeing for a championship. That leaves a shortened Astros season as a pretty good option.

406

Talk Zone / Re: Tejada

« on: December 11, 2005, 03:22:07 pm »

Quote:
How about, Qualls, Burke, Buscholtz?

I think Lidge and AE would have to be part of the deal. Burke possibly as well. That said, I don't think he's really available; Abreu neither. I think it'll take a huge offer for either player to get traded, more than the Astros or possibly any other team will be willing to trade.

407

Talk Zone / Re: Lopez...

« on: December 09, 2005, 05:31:20 pm »

Quote:
Abreu makes a lot more sense than Ramirez, for both teams.  Abreu isn't a knucklehead, for one, and can actually do other things besides hit.  If Lidge is the bait, then that makes sense too.  Who cares if they just signed Flash Gordon and paid him a lot of money?  That seems to be the going rate this offseason for a *good* not great reliever.  I don't think they're sold on him as their closer.

I hope Lidge is not really on the block, though.

I completely agree that Abreu fits better than Ramirez, and he'd probably provide more production. (FWIW, I think Abreu is one of the most underrated players in the league.) But I think it will take more than just Lidge to get him, which is why he probably won't go anywhere this offseason.

408

Talk Zone / Re: Roger to start for Astros on June 2 vs. Reds

« on: December 09, 2005, 05:19:52 pm »

Wow. I totally missed that one. My neck is sore from the whiplash. I still think returning in May or June makes sense for both the Astros and Clemens, but Justice again continues to spin. I suppose he'll be saying "told you so" in June no matter what happens.

409

Talk Zone / Re: Is Jeff Kent Mormon?

« on: December 09, 2005, 04:54:14 pm »

Quote:
Isn't Pettitte LDS?  Did I dream this?

You dreamed it. Pettitte is Baptist. I can't remember where he goes to church, but his father-in-law is pastor at Central Baptist Church in Deer Park.

Edit: He does go to Central Baptist.

410

Talk Zone / Re: Is Jeff Kent Mormon?

« on: December 09, 2005, 04:50:41 pm »

Quote:
Guess who else is?  HINT:  He's tall, he's crazy, and he has recently pitched for two of the Astros' most hated rivals. (see relief pitchers below)

C - Alan Ashby, John Buck, Ron Brand
1B - Wally Joyner
2B - Jeff Kent
3B - Harmon Killebrew, Vance Law
SS - Bobby Crosby, Danny Ainge
LF - Dane & Garth Iorg
CF - Dale Murphy
RF - Cory Snyder

Starting Pitchers
Roy Halladay
Shawn Estes
Jaret Wright
Bruce Hurst

Relief Pitchers
Kyle Farnsworth
Dave Veres
Mike Fetters
Brandon Lyon
Brandon Duckworth
"Autopop"

Farnsworth

411

Talk Zone / Re: Lopez...

« on: December 09, 2005, 04:42:50 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Where have you gone, Bobby Abreu?  A lonely city turns its eyes to you....

Now that would right a wrong that happened years ago.

That would be in my best case scenario, but I don't think the Astros can afford what the Phillies want.

412

Talk Zone / Roger to start for Astros on June 2 vs. Reds

« on: December 09, 2005, 04:39:32 pm »

... or so Richard Justice believes.

When I began to read this, I thought he was being sarcastic, but I think he really sees this as not only a possibility but an almost certainly. I don't always agree with Justice, but I think he's pretty well on the money with this one. The scenario certainly makes sense.

413

Talk Zone / Re: 2005 Top Plays Archive

« on: December 09, 2005, 03:52:11 pm »

I really liked seeing Backe's CG against SF in May. That was a very good game at a time when the team wasn't playing very well overall.

414

Talk Zone / Re: World Baseball Classic: Do you care?

« on: December 09, 2005, 03:47:03 pm »

Quote:
He was changing the subject to the "real" World Cup (soccer).  Mexico is seeded, USA is not, even though USA beat Mexico a couple months ago.  The seedings were done based on the results of the past two World Cups, plus current rankings.  Mexico had far more points than the USA, who ended up 9th in the results.  The rest of the draw is today (I think).

Ah yes. I understand now. That makes much more sense.

415

Talk Zone / Re: Lopez...

« on: December 09, 2005, 03:44:22 pm »

Quote:
Translation:Lopez thinks we might trade Jeff Bagwell and Brad Lidge for Manny Ramirez.

I'm assuming that's sarcasm regarding Bagwell and Ramirez on your part, but I can't tell for sure. Bagwell's going nowhere for 2006.

416

Talk Zone / Re: World Baseball Classic: Do you care?

« on: December 09, 2005, 03:37:58 pm »

Quote:
Since you didn't remotely bring up the subject...

... how the hell is Mexico seeded ahead of USA in the World Cup?

Where have you seen seeding? Mexico and USA are in the same pool, but I haven't seen anything indicating that they are seeded higher than USA. Also, the pooling was done in part for competitive balance, but also because of geography.

Also, whether or not the winners get a gold medal, there will be a trophy:
 

Quote:
Q: Will there be one champion named or a medal format?
A: There will be one champion. The winner of the World Baseball Classic Final will receive a championship trophy.

 The Link

417

Talk Zone / Re: Garner on 610

« on: December 09, 2005, 12:06:54 pm »

Quote:
I especially wanted to mention the Ausmus offer, figured that would make some peoples head explode.

Two years doesn't surprise me. I figured they would have to give him at least that to keep him. I guessed that any offer from San Diego would be for two years.

418

Talk Zone / Re: Garner on 610

« on: December 09, 2005, 12:01:23 pm »

Quote:
something "exciting" about to happen.  Any minute now.

My gosh. I wish they would stop it with these teasers. It's killing me. Just tell me when something gets done. My imagination begins to wander, and I'm afraid I'm being set up for a disappointment.

That's good to hear about Bagwell and Ausmus. I'm really rooting for Bagwell to be a solid member of the offense next year.

419

Talk Zone / Re: Miguel Tejada

« on: December 09, 2005, 11:57:36 am »

Quote:
When did Chron hacks become "insiders"?

Where did it say that the "insider" was a Chron hack?

420

Talk Zone / Re: World Baseball Classic: Do you care?

« on: December 09, 2005, 11:52:27 am »

Right. In fact, I thought MLB had openly stated that this was more of a way to generate interest in baseball internationally than anything else. Appeal in the US would be a huge benefit, but I don't think that was the primary purpose. I can't find that quote now, though.

421

Talk Zone / Re: World Baseball Classic: Do you care?

« on: December 09, 2005, 11:47:58 am »

Quote:
I agree that most casual fans in the US won't care, but I bet it's going to generate a lot of interest worldwide.

Absolutely. Plus, we have to remember that it will probably take a couple of go-arounds for this to generate much US interest. We already see most of the best pleyers in the world play every summer, and most fans will need to see how it unfolds before paying much attention. I think it could eventually be a big deal, even to casual baseball fans, but I agree that it probably won't get much attention this year. Give it some time, though. It could still be a big deal in the US in a few years.

422

Talk Zone / Re: Innuresting..........

« on: December 09, 2005, 11:16:59 am »

Quote:

Quote:
IMO, the difference is that Biggio was a known commodity by the Astros. They knew what to expect from him offensively, and they knew his abilities as an athelete. My guess is that they figured he would be at least adequate in CF based on how good of an athelete he is. Plus, he had played a  little bit in the OF in 1990, so he wasn't completely inexperienced.

That's a good comparison, but I think the Astros ultimately had a better idea of what to expect from from Biggio in 2003 than they do from Nomar in 2006.

Fair enough, I'm just thinking that he'd be a decent option in LF should the trade market dry up.  Not my first choice, but I choice I could live with.

Okay, I'll give you that it's a  possible option, but I can think of many better and more likely options than Nomar playing LF next year.

423

Talk Zone / Re: Innuresting..........

« on: December 09, 2005, 11:03:38 am »

IMO, the difference is that Biggio was a known commodity by the Astros. They knew what to expect from him offensively, and they knew his abilities as an athelete. My guess is that they figured he would be at least adequate in CF based on how good of an athelete he is. Plus, he had played a  little bit in the OF in 1990, so he wasn't completely inexperienced.

That's a good comparison, but I think the Astros ultimately had a better idea of what to expect from from Biggio in 2003 than they do from Nomar in 2006.

424

Talk Zone / Re: World Baseball Classic: Do you care?

« on: December 09, 2005, 10:54:13 am »

Quote:
I don't care one bit.  It interests me less than a split squad spring training game.  And they put this thing up against March Madness?!  I predict nobody is going to be watching this.  Who is televising it anyway?

I couldn't care less about basketball, pro or college. I pay almost no attention to either, so the fact that it's up against March Madness means nothing to me. If I cared about college basketball, though, I suppose I would pay less attention to the WBC, so I could see that being a reason to stay away.

425

Talk Zone / Re: What a Mench

« on: December 09, 2005, 10:50:32 am »

Maybe I'm in the minority, but I do like it. It looks much better, and I think it's actually much easier to navigate, but that's just me.

I do find it ridiculous that Blogs, Forums, and Columnists are the first three items under the "News" menus. That may be because those are probably the more frequented areas of the website. It could be for convenience, but it probably should be "News" first under the "News" tab.

426

Talk Zone / Re: Innuresting..........

« on: December 09, 2005, 10:25:46 am »

I'm not exactly a baseball insider, but I doubt that happens. He's never played an outfield position in the majors, and I can't see the Astros putting him there full-time with absolutely no experience and no other place to put him if it didn't work out. Plus, there's little reason to believe that he will return to the kind of player he was in Boston. If the Astros had an opening at SS, 3B, or even 2B, I might see the logic in it, but at this point, I don't.

[Boston]

427

Talk Zone / Re: Miguel Tejada

« on: December 09, 2005, 10:15:23 am »

Normally, I would scoff at this idea. I love AE, and I wouldn't like to lose him. Plus, Tejada has a big contract that would be hard to swallow.

But I LOVE Miguel Tejada! You could even say it borders on a man-crush. I would love to see him in blood and mud. From most accounts, he's a great player on both sides of the ball, a good teammate, and good in the community. I've loosely followed his career since he came into the league, and he's become one of my favorite non-Astros. I don't know if the Astros have any interest in him, but I hope they do.

Edit: The media seems to be pegging Boston as the most likely place for Tejada to go because of the void they have at SS and the fact they are Boston, but I'd be surprised to see the Orioles trade him within the division.

428

Talk Zone / Re: World Baseball Classic: Do you care?

« on: December 09, 2005, 10:07:49 am »

I'll be interested about as much as I'm interested in USA Baseball in general, which is a fair amount. I like to see international players that I don't get to see otherwise. The main appeal of USA Baseball, however, is that it's usually college and minor league players that I wouldn't otherwise get to see. This, of course, will be different with MLB players involved. Still, I'm looking forward to it. Also, I'm not exactly what you'd call patriotic, but I do enjoy cheering for my "hometown" USA team.

429

Talk Zone / Re: What a Mench

« on: December 09, 2005, 09:56:21 am »

Although Mench isn't exactly the kind of impact player I was hoping they would go after (low RBI totals), he's still young and could still develop into a good RBI guy, I guess. I'm still hoping they'll be able to get a solid 90+ RBI guy. We'll see what happens. I was also interested to see that they were interested in talking with Jarrod Washburn and Scott Elarton. Washburn isn't a surprise; I figured once the Angels didn't offer arbitration to him and the Astros didn't offer to Roger that they'd at least inquire about Washburn. I am a bit surprised, however, to see Elarton's name there. When he was traded to Colorado, I thought they essentially gave up on him. While he's been decent with Cleveland, he hasn't really shown he's any better than the pitcher they traded in 2001. Might this be an example of how Purp and the Hun differed on players? I can't imagine that he'd be a significant upgrade over the potential starters we alrady have.

On a side note, I guess I haven't been to the Lackey Chron's website since they changed the look. I like it. The old web format looked cheap and poorly done. I hope it's an indication that they're trying to improve other areas of the paper as well.  

430

Talk Zone / Re: More Huh???

« on: December 08, 2005, 03:41:58 pm »

Quote:
but the Astros laughed at them (I think they offered Vasquez - that's what I read somewhere else).

I'll bet they laughed, especially since Vasquez has been with Arizona for a year.

431

Talk Zone / Post-Clemens

« on: December 08, 2005, 09:55:32 am »

So now that it's certain that Roger won't pitch for the Astros until at least May (and maybe not at all), what area does the Astros address? Do they go out and get a quality starter, or do they hope that the pitchers they already have can adequately fill out the rotation? They still have the offense to address somehow, too.

So who do you think will get the open rotation spots? Wandy? Zeke? Hirsh (not likely)? Jarrod Washburn or Kenny Rogers (neither were offered arbitration)? Matt Morris (the 3rds did offer arbitration)? Someone else?

432

Talk Zone / Re: Bengie Molina no offered arb...

« on: December 08, 2005, 09:41:59 am »

I have to say that I'm surprised by this one. I had heard that Molina was not impressed by the reception he has recieved from other clubs and was considering returning to the Angels on a one-year contract. I guess this essentially closes that door. I think the only way the Astros pursue him, though, is if they don't sign Ausmus, which I think they'll do sooner rather than later.

433

Talk Zone / Re: Stark raving mad...

« on: December 08, 2005, 09:35:53 am »

I have no problem with the first two quotes. Whether we agree or disagree, arguments could be made for both. The third, however, is nuts. Roger certainly made the Astros much more visible nationally, but they were hardly mired in obscurity before he came.

434

Talk Zone / Re: Delotti reporting from Dallas

« on: December 07, 2005, 05:53:46 pm »

These "major trades" by the Astros are funny. No one in the media mentions them as major players in the blockbuster deals, so it seems like a shock when one goes through. I remember being floored when I hearn about Johnson in 1998 and Beltran in 2004. If I remember correctly, no one in the media had the Astros as major players in either deal until the 11th hour.

I'm not sure if that means the Astros are really good at hiding their negotiations or they just wait until the last minute to make their push. Either way, it's fun for me as a fan. I hope a major trade for a bat does go down, but if it doesn't, so be it.

435

Talk Zone / Estrada traded to DBacks

« on: December 07, 2005, 05:46:49 pm »

 The Link

Too bad. I kind of thought Estrada a potential plan D if Ausmus, Hernandez, and Molina signed elsewhere (although at this point, I'll be surprised if Ausmus isn't re-signed soon).

436

Talk Zone / Re: No Arbitration to Clemans

« on: December 07, 2005, 05:43:23 pm »

 The Link

437

Talk Zone / Re: Cubs get their man...their leadoff man that is...

« on: December 07, 2005, 01:31:02 pm »

Quote:
Also, I don't have the link, but talk around Atlanta this morning says the Braves are close to replacing Furcal with Renteria in a three-way deal with Tampa Bay.

 many links

438

Talk Zone / Re: Borezilla stupidity

« on: December 07, 2005, 01:07:48 pm »

Quote:
I know it's the off-season, but do we really need to have an article picking apart Barzilla every time he shits out another screed?  Just post  ibid. next time and save us the time.

No kidding. The first couple of times it happened, it was like watching a trainwreck. Now, we expect the trainwreck, so where's the originality?

439

Talk Zone / Re: Arbitration Deadline

« on: December 07, 2005, 01:04:10 pm »

I think they'll end up offering arbitration to all of them.

I don't think Hobbs would be an adequate replacement for OP, however. OP has shown that he can be very valuable. Hobbs has not. The only way OP doesn't get offered arbitration, IMO, is if they think they can sign someone better off the FA market.

440

Talk Zone / Re: Reds trade Casey to Bucs

« on: December 07, 2005, 12:58:45 pm »

Quote:
I guess Adam Dunn will move to 1B.

My guess is that this should remove all hope of working a trade for a bat with the Reds. Dunn or Griffey at 1B and the rest of them in OF.

441

Talk Zone / Re: Very Interesting note I heard on XM this morning

« on: December 06, 2005, 12:34:08 pm »

I think that Martinez probably misspoke. Burnett is not worth $40 million over 4 years, and I can't imagine the Astros making that kind of offer to him when they've made it known that offense is the main priority. If they have that kind of money to offer a mid-rotation starter, then they would certainly be in on some of the bigger bats available.

442

Talk Zone / Re: 2006

« on: December 04, 2005, 03:25:41 pm »

Quote:
2006 might be the Astros last best chance to win a WS.

Because of the inevitable aging of players (especially Bagwell, Biggio, and Clemens), this has been emphatically stated by fans and pundits alike for the last 3 offseasons. The reality is that unless management decides to enter an all-out rebuilding process (unlikely in the near future, IMO), it's never really their "last chance". Even then, a WS title may not be too far away if the rebuilding process goes well.

Bottom line: no matter what happens in 2006, the Astros could still field a team capable of winning a championship in 2007 or beyond. But let's see what happens in 2006 before worrying about that.

443

Talk Zone / Re: Furcal not a Brave

« on: December 04, 2005, 03:07:49 pm »

Quote:
looks like the fa market is going to skyrocket this season

And a lot of teams are going to seriously overpay for mid-level players (see Eyre, Scott; Farnsworth, Kyle)

444

Talk Zone / Re: McLane's Comment: Abreu ?

« on: December 03, 2005, 03:22:08 pm »

I know what that Philly Daily News article says, but we all know that it doesn't always work out that way. He could still be traded, especially if  Jayson Stark is to be believed. It would proably take more than just the rumored deal involving Qualls and Backe, though.

445

Talk Zone / Re: New Jayson Stark article

« on: December 03, 2005, 03:03:03 pm »

IMO, the only reason Qualls, Wheeler, and Backe would be "on the block" is probably because the Astros would have to give up something to get something. I don't think it's an indication of how the Astros feel about those players. If the Astros had it their way, they'd get Abreu (see the Astros reference on #3 of Stark's list) for Wandy and a couple of minor leaguers or something like that.

Frankly, I love all of the players that are currently projected for the Astro's 25-man roster, but I understand that if the Astros make a big trade this offseason, one or more are likely to be dealt. As much as I (and probably the Astros) would like to see Qualls and Backe remain on the team, trading them for Abreu (as Stark suggests) might not be a bad idea. Then again, I'm not Tim Purpura.

446

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 18, 2005, 03:47:36 pm »

Quote:
silly boy. his asking price had nothing to do with Beltran. the Astros knew his planned tactic at the winter meetings.

I agree with most of what you've written about Clemens and the motivations behind his negotiation tactics, but why do you think he took so little to play in 2004? Frankly, I was shocked at the time to see him take so little. I guess 2005's salary made up for it, though.

447

Talk Zone / Re: Spring Training schedule released

« on: November 18, 2005, 09:48:12 am »

Once again, we'll get a steady diet of Indians and Braves!

[because]

448

Talk Zone / Re: One of the Astros targets spurns the Astros

« on: November 18, 2005, 09:43:57 am »

Quote:
So is it cause for optimism (that we'll be buyers this offseason), that we were interested in a middle reliever with that kind of price tag?

My guess is that he didn't sign with the Astros because he had that kind of price tag.

449

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 16, 2005, 03:18:21 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

So, we have at least one who believes the ability to throw is not a requirement for an NL player.

Well, it's not.

By that logic, any player who could concievably get into a major league game would not fit the criteria for "unable to play". That means that a player who has his arms amputated could still play because he could theoretically pinch run.

I don't buy that logic. This is the NL. A player needs to be able to play in the field. Although I haven't seen any insurance contracts, it's probably safe to assume the Astros' lawyers would take something like this into consideration when taking out insurance on a player.

450

Talk Zone / Re: Maximus to Atl?

« on: November 16, 2005, 12:12:40 pm »

Quote:
By David O'Brien | Monday, November 14, 2005, 03:55 PM
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

"Which is why the Braves have discussed possible trades for Tampa Bay?s Julio Lugo or possibly Houston?s Adam Everett. Everett isn?t exactly a pulse-raising commodity, but is solid with the glove. He?s hardly a leadoff type, however, with a .305 career on-base percentage and .248-11-54 production last year with only 26 walks in 549 at-bats. Yikes.

But Everett made only $445,000 last season and is eligible for arbitration; the Astros have offrered him, but not sure how much interest Braves have in him."
The Link

Well, if AE goes to ATL, I guess that gives the Astros an opportunity to improve the offense at short. But I'd rather they keep him and try to improve in OF/1B.

451

Talk Zone / Re: Pooholes is the MVP

« on: November 16, 2005, 12:09:35 pm »

Quote:

Quote:
2. How the heck did Biggio never finish higher than 4th?  He was seriously good in his prime years.

Because in 94 and 97, he lost too many votes to Bagwell, and in 98, some freaks put on their fireworks.

And Alou was the Astros MVP in 98. That likely took some votes away from Biggio.

452

Talk Zone / Re: Billy Wagner on the Mets' contract offer

« on: November 16, 2005, 12:07:48 pm »

Quote:
"Four years would be hard to turn down. The Mets are already ahead in some aspects because of the kind of team they can put on the field."

Which ignores the fact that the Phillies put a better team on the field last year.  It reminds me of Wagner's comments about the Astros, after which they've gone to the LCS and the World Series in consecutive years.

I hope he signs with the Mets. They won't do jack next season, and with the Phillies slightly depleted, the Astros might have less competition for the WC, should they need it in 2006.

453

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 16, 2005, 12:03:32 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

So the insurance option is gone if he even tries ST? I was under the impression that he had to play in the regular season to negate it.

This insurance option is nonsense.  Bagwell started two games in the World Series; he will play next year.  The question is whether or not he can play in the field.  Drayton owes Bagwell $20 million in '06.

Why is it nonsense? I haven't heard anything indicating that Bagwell will play next season, only that he and the organization are hopeful that he can play. If he can't play, of course he'll still get paid. The way I understand it, the insurance company would pay his 2006 salary, and the Astros would pay the money he's still owed from past seasons. Monetarily, it doesn't affect Bagwell either way. Is any of that wrong?

I think the suggestion is that Bagwell has already shown he  can  play by playing in the World Series.  Whether he wants to play or not probably isn't relevant.  To an outsider, the only questions seem to be whether he can ultimately throw, or whether only being able to pinch hit is enough to negate the insurance (unless of course by next year he can't pinch hit).  One's a question of fact, one's a fact that's already proved and becomes a question for the contract.

My understanding is that when it comes to Bagwell in 2006,
can't play the field = won't play at all

He has stated that he won't be a full-time PH, and because there's no DH in Houston, he can't play if he can't throw. I'll take him at his word.

454

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 16, 2005, 11:56:53 am »

Quote:

Quote:
Good Point DiJ.  Fortunetly Timmy has supplied himself a good farm with quality potential.  Scott, Conrad, Huffman, Burns, Buckholz, Nieve...

I've seen Huffman.  I'm a fan of Huffman's.  But Huffman is no Jeff Bagwell!

If the Astros are looking for the next Jeff Bagwell, they're screwed at the beginning.

Edit:
That was my 1000th post. I now officially should have quit 500 posts ago... ain't it the truth.

455

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 16, 2005, 11:51:45 am »

Quote:
At what position is Roger telling the organization to build at?  It's pretty much laid out that the same team is coming back next year.  It's his spot that is in question until he get gets a chance to spend some time with his family to "discuss" things.  And WTF is up with that.  Doesn't he have special provisions during the season to get his family time, and now that the seasons over he can't get with them until the holidays?!

I don't know specifically what position he would choose to improve, but my best bet for improvement is in the outfield. Unfortunately (because he's my all-time favorite player), I think it would be better for the Astros if Bagwell cannot play next season. They put Berkman at 1st and a real OF in left. Short of that, keep Berkman in LF, and get a power-hitting 1B. Even not knowing whether or not he can play, I think they should go get a true OF with some power. If Bagwell plays, then Lane (assuming he isn't in a trade for the new guy), Taveras, and the new guy compete for the other two positions (Lane and Taveras playing RF and CF respectively if they come out). Use the odd-man-out in a trade to fill other holes.

It's not an ideal situation, but I think something must be done to improve this offense, preferably with a proven RBI hitter, and this seems like the most solution. Bottom line: I'm glad I'm not a major league GM.

456

Talk Zone / Re: Pooholes is the MVP

« on: November 16, 2005, 11:34:55 am »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:
are you suggesting that the voters might have favorites and not always pay attention to the stats? (not counting the actual mvp)Do you have an idea for a better way to  choose one?

No.  I think the whole exercise is ridiculous.

Mostly. I'm no Pujols lover, but the mere fact that Ajones got 13 or so 1st-place votes, is just silly.

My guess is that those 13 were people who emphasize the "V" in MVP. Their argument is that the Cardinals make the playoffs and probably the NLCS without Pujols, but the Braves probably finish 3rd in the NLeast without Jones. It's not all stats-based.

457

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 16, 2005, 11:18:37 am »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

So the insurance option is gone if he even tries ST? I was under the impression that he had to play in the regular season to negate it.

This insurance option is nonsense.  Bagwell started two games in the World Series; he will play next year.  The question is whether or not he can play in the field.  Drayton owes Bagwell $20 million in '06.

It's not "nonsense".  The Astros have insurance on Bagwell.  If he is physically unable to play baseball it pays off.

Also, Bagwell has said that he will not be a full-time pinch-hitter next year. If he can't play the field in 2006, he won't play at all. I can't find the quote right now, but I know I read that somewhere.

458

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 16, 2005, 11:15:18 am »

Quote:

Quote:

So the insurance option is gone if he even tries ST? I was under the impression that he had to play in the regular season to negate it.

This insurance option is nonsense.  Bagwell started two games in the World Series; he will play next year.  The question is whether or not he can play in the field.  Drayton owes Bagwell $20 million in '06.

Why is it nonsense? I haven't heard anything indicating that Bagwell will play next season, only that he and the organization are hopeful that he can play. If he can't play, of course he'll still get paid. The way I understand it, the insurance company would pay his 2006 salary, and the Astros would pay the money he's still owed from past seasons. Monetarily, it doesn't affect Bagwell either way. Is any of that wrong?

459

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 16, 2005, 11:10:56 am »

I have to agree with Clemens on one point: The Astros should build their team without waiting on him. The fact is that the offense needs some serious help whether Bagwell returns or not (especially if not). Even if Clemens comes back, he won't be too much help in that department. If Drayton has a particular budget ceiling, then that will impact the negotiations with Clemens if he decides to come back, but this offense needs to be addressed first. Even Roger said as much.

While there is no pitcher on the horizon who would be able to replace what Clemens has done in 2004-2005, there are enough internal options to believe that the Astros won't be in trouble if he chooses not to return. They don't have any internal options to improve the offense, which will be in trouble if they don't make at least one major change.

460

Talk Zone / Re: Pooholes is the MVP

« on: November 15, 2005, 04:42:07 pm »

I think what's farcical are the votes for 5-10. I understand why they do it that way, but at that point it's almost pulling names out of a hat in most years.

461

Talk Zone / Re: Sources: Steroid Penalties much tougher with agreement

« on: November 15, 2005, 04:26:15 pm »

I was surprised that it doesn't call for any more frequent testing than that (once in ST, once randomly during the season, and then randomly throughout). I'd have thought they would have added at least one more certain test during the season.

All in all, though, it doesn't look like a bad deal.

462

Talk Zone / Re: Pooholes is the MVP

« on: November 15, 2005, 04:21:01 pm »

It's no question that the Astros got as far as they did primarily on pitching, which usually nets very few MVP votes. The only serious MVP candidate we had still got 4th place, which is about where I'd put him. I can't argue too much with the way the voting turned out.

463

Talk Zone / Re: Clemens on the Dan Patrick Show???

« on: November 15, 2005, 03:41:08 pm »

I only caught the end, but here's what I got out of it.
 

 
• Seemed a bit irritated at the Astros' urgency for him to make a decision
   
• Essentially told the Astros to go about their business and build a team. "If I decide to come back, then that's a bonus, but don't wait on me."
   
• Said that the decision to come back in 2005 was largely influenced by his wife and Andy wanting him to come back. He seemed to say that he wasn't going to come back until they encouraged him to do so.
   
• Sounded quite irritated at the lack of run support during the season (not as PC as I'm used to hearing from athletes)
   
• I got the impression that he wants Astros management to go get some more offense before he decides whether or not to come back.
   
• Doesn't sound like we'll get an answer any time soon, which with Roger means that he could make an announcement any time.

[our hitting was pretty much the same]

464

Talk Zone / Re: Purpura on 610 this morning

« on: November 14, 2005, 12:09:12 am »

Quote:

Quote:
you know what i think cost us the WS? pitching.  our hitting was pretty much the same , but the pitching slipped ever so slightly. that and the fact that CWS played just a little bit better. i hate it when that happens, don't you?

The same as what? Judged on what standards?

season: BA .256; OBP .322; SLG .408
W  S  : BA .203; OBP .307; SLG .336

And you call others clueless ... and BP fanatacrap?

Yeah, um... I don't think the Astros had the opportunity to feast on Reds pitching in the WS. Look at most offensive stats for WS teams. They typically are worse than the regular season. (I would guess that the Sox didn't hit as well in the WS as in the regular season, but I don't know that for sure.)

Pitching cost the Astros the series. The offense was just doing what they do. Don't forget the numerous 1-0 games they lost this season.

465

Talk Zone / Re: Kenjie Jojima

« on: November 11, 2005, 11:17:56 am »

Quote:

Quote:

The first problem I can think of is the potential language barrier, which would probably be more of a problem at catcher than other positions.

Is language that much a problem for Spanish-speaking pitchers and English-speaking catchers, or vice versa?  Was Lima's problem that no one taught Meluskey how to say "get your pitch down" in Spanish?

From what I understand, it can be a bit of a problem any time pitchers and catchers that don't speak the same language, but when the difference is Spanish/English, they can usually work something out.  I would think, however, that Japanese/English might be a more difficult barrier because the languages are so different and so complex. Even so, they could probably learn enough of the other language to get by. Besides, I think most Spanish-speaking pitchers/catchers know enough baseball English to get by by the time they get to the majors. I doubt the same's true for the Japanese players who don't come up through the American minors.

I don't know enough about the interactions between pitchers and catchers to speculate specifically on how this might effect them. I only assumed it would.

466

Talk Zone / Re: Purpura on 610 this morning

« on: November 11, 2005, 09:59:37 am »

Quote:

Quote:
Those stats are skewed by the last 15 innings of the series. Plus you would expect the stats to be down a little bit as the Whitesox are a strong pitching team and there aren't anymore patsy pitchers to beat up on like in the regular season. Anyways, Game 1: 3 runs, game 2: 6 runs, game 3: 5 runs. That seems like reasonable run production for a team playing another solid pitching club in the WS. Plus, game 1 as much as they failed to drive Willy in, Roger's injury/ineffectiveness played a huge role in that loss.

To me, the two huge innings in game 2 and 3 is what hurt. I bet I could count on my hand the amount of times that the big 3 in either the pen or the rotation had allowed 4 or more runs in an inning. And it happened twice in the WS. Win those 2 games and the series is vastly different. You can lament about the offense not bailing the pitchers out when they struggled for their standards, but the pivotal game 2 and game 3 losses were due to two big innings off of the Astros elite pitchers.

That is what changed the series, not the lack of offense late in games 3/4. The pitching carried this team all year, and it picked a bad time to have its worst two outings of the year.  

I think what you say about the pitching is fair, it was the wrong time for sub par outings from a couple of key arms. But we scored only 1 run in the last 19 innings of the series. Not only were the batting stats down over the whole series, but we did not get hits in clutch situations in games 1-4. Additionally, our guys failed to bring in runners from third with "quality outs" with less than 2 outs in the late innings of all games. That is something that we did well most of the year. I agree the Sox pitching had something to do with that and they were the better team for those 4 games. However, saying that our hitting was the same is not accurate. Just as the pitchers picked the wrong time to have sub par outings, our batters slumped at a bad time.

I don't think it was quite a slump. Their offensive output in the World Series wasn't too far off from the regular season or the NLCS. The ONLY difference was that the pitching didn't pick the offense up the way it had before.

467

Talk Zone / Re: Kenjie Jojima

« on: November 11, 2005, 09:56:46 am »

Quote:

Quote:
Let me channel HD for a moment:

Drayton McNeck will never allow a player of Japanese ancestry to play in Houston.

Didn't Bruce Chen play for a short time in Houston two years ago?  He sucked, we got rid of him. Yeah I know, Chen was not Japanese.

Chen is Panamanian. The Astros have had a few other Panamanians play for them. What's your point?

468

Talk Zone / Re: Kenjie Jojima

« on: November 09, 2005, 09:25:33 am »

Quote:
The steM want him.

And?

469

Talk Zone / Re: Ryan Howard wins NL ROY

« on: November 08, 2005, 05:51:05 pm »

good grief. grow some thicker skin, mabel.

470

Talk Zone / Kenjie Jojima

« on: November 08, 2005, 05:48:13 pm »

Has anyone heard anything about Japenese catcher Kenjie Jojima?  This Newsday article seems to portray him as perhaps the next great thing to come out of Japan. Anyone know if he's as good as described? Is he even on the Astros' radar? If they can't get Ausmus to return (or even if they can), do you think Jojima would even be considered?

The first problem I can think of is the potential language barrier, which would probably be more of a problem at catcher than other positions.

471

Talk Zone / Re: Ryan Howard wins NL ROY

« on: November 07, 2005, 05:58:25 pm »

Quote:
And as far as Ichiro winning the 2001 AL ROY, you can never convince me that a player that has that much time in Japan pro baseball is a ROOKIE.

My main point bringing up Ichiro was his MVP award with only 8 HR. Say what you will about Japanese players winning the ROY, which I don't have a problem with, but the MVP is the MVP, Japan experience or not.

472

Talk Zone / Re: Ryan Howard wins NL ROY

« on: November 07, 2005, 04:56:22 pm »

Quote:
1. Playing for the Astros seems to be a minus in most of the sportswriters eyes for awards. (IMHO)

I would disagree. While players in more visible markets might get a little more attention, if an Astros' player has a good season, they'll get recognized. Clemens won the Cy Young last year as Exhibit A. The problem is that the Astros haven't had many players that simply exploded in certain years. The times that they did, they were rewarded (Scott in 86, Bagwell in 94, Clemens in 04). Sometimes it could be argued that an Astro didn't get it when he deserved it, but the player that did get it was often just as deserving.

Quote:
2. In the sportwriters eyes the only thing that truly matters is the power numbers. (Again IMHO)

Again, I disagree. There's no doubt that they pay closer attention to HR than SB, but that's not the only thing they see. Postseason awards can't be simplified that much. After all, Willy did get  7 first place votes, despite having virtually no power. Another example that comes to mind is Ichiro winning the 2001 AL ROY and MVP with very little power.

473

Talk Zone / Re: Ryan Howard wins NL ROY

« on: November 07, 2005, 03:12:57 pm »

I was certainly rooting for Willy, and I thought he had a great shot at it (playing a full season counts for something), but I can't say I'm surprised. Howard did well this year, and he deserves it.

474

Talk Zone / Manny Ramirez to become an Astro?

« on: November 07, 2005, 02:37:30 pm »

Or so one deluded fan asked Footer. You can almost hear her calling the emailer a moron in her response.

These mailbag questions rarely give me any new insights (due to no fault of her own), but it sure can be funny to read how Footer responds with almost a "You're kidding, right?" kind of quality.

475

Talk Zone / Re: Purpura inundated

« on: November 07, 2005, 02:27:30 pm »

Quote:
Speaking of Quintero, are the Astros punting on his services?  Did the Stros really see enough of him to know he is not their catcher of the future?

IMO, I don't think the Astros have "punted" on Quintero. I just don't think they see him as being ready to handle 1st-string catching duties. I think the jury is still out as to whether or not he ever will be, but the Astros see enough to keep him on their radar. Besides, it's not like there's a hot propect breathing down his neck to pass him on the depth chart.

476

Talk Zone / Re: Thomas contract brought out

« on: November 05, 2005, 01:34:39 pm »

I think another team would take a chance on him, but it would probably have to be for cheap. If he plays, though, it will probably be with a re-negotiated contract with the Sox.

477

Talk Zone / Re: Willy Taveras named top NL rookie by players

« on: November 04, 2005, 05:35:59 pm »

Looking at the past award winners, it looks like Willy is the second Astro to ever win a Player's Choice award and the first since Bagwell won NL Player of the Year in 1994.

478

Talk Zone / Re: (Old) Astros retrospective

« on: November 01, 2005, 06:43:19 pm »

Heh heh. That was just not, nu-, anything. Oh boy.

I changed the link. It's correct now.

479

Talk Zone / (Old) Astros retrospective

« on: November 01, 2005, 06:30:35 pm »

I don't think I've seen this posted here, but it may have been.

During the WS, I found some video of an old documentary about the Astros on MLB.com, with game videos and interviews with players. The same is there for the Sox too. It was obviously filmed in the late 1980s, and it shows the history of the Colts/Astros in 5 different segments. There are segments about the 1950s-60s, 1970s, 1980s, Colt Stadium, and the Astrodome. It is especially cool to see the 1980s segment and relive the first two division championships.

In case you haven't seen them, go  here and click on any of the video links to open the MLB video player. Scroll down the navigation panel on the right to "Houston Astros History" and enjoy.

BTW, I didn't remember Craig Reynold's hair being a solid white-man-fro.

480

Talk Zone / Re: Arbitration

« on: November 01, 2005, 05:06:00 pm »

Quote:
I keep wondering when the Astros will cut loose of Viz in favor of Bruntlett.  I love Viz and he's been invaluable to the ball club over the past two seasons, but at some point money and age will dictate his subtraction from the ball club.

I don't understand. It sounds like you're saying that the Astros can't have Bruntlett and Viz on the team at the same time, even though they have. My feeling is that unless they can find someone as valuable to the team as Viz (not likely this off-season), they should try to keep him.

481

Talk Zone / Re: Go Back to the Orange and Navy?

« on: November 01, 2005, 05:02:46 pm »

I disagree. I love MMPUS. I like the colors, and I like the uniforms (I even like the green color of the roof). That said, it's all window-dressing. It's all done for marketing and publicity. People like the train, and Astros merchandise sells better today that ever. Even the whole bee thing (despite my loathing) is popular. Basically, why would the Astros mess with something that's actually working? To the most of the real baseball fans, it doesn't matter, and all of that window-dressing is appealling to the vast majority of those for whom it does matter. If it ain't broke...

482

Talk Zone / Re: Oldes HOFer dies...

« on: November 01, 2005, 04:57:06 pm »

Quote:
More karma, Lopez lived long enough to see the ChiSox win the WS. I guess some things were meant to be. Is Bob Aspromonte available to give us karma next year?

Nothing against Aspermonte, but I don't think we want his kind of karma. The Colts/Astros were not pretty while he was with them (due to no fault of his own).

483

Talk Zone / Arbitration

« on: November 01, 2005, 04:54:02 pm »

If it comes down to it, I can't see why the Astros wouldn't offer arbitration to Ausmus, Roger, Viz, Springer, or Palmeiro. I don't think they'd get more in arbitration than the Astros would be willing to spend on them anyway. And all indications are that they want to bring them all back. The only exceptions might be Viz and OP, though I expect them to either be offered arbitration or sign with the Astros to.

Any thoughts?

484

Talk Zone / Re: List of free agents

« on: November 01, 2005, 04:37:55 pm »

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:
Why is the team so in love with Adam Everett?  He can't hit to save his life!  Furcal would be an upgrade in hitting, defense, and speed.  As for starting pitching, I have 2 initials for you: A.J. (Burnett)

Furcal would not be an upgrade in defense.  In addition, there were times this season Everett hit the ball very well.  A.J. Burnett might be an option but, he'll be expensive. One complicating factor is that he's not the kind of player the Astros generally take on.  The Marlins kicked him out of the clubhouse for being an ass.  I don't think he fits as an Astro.   Cubs and Cardinals seem to be interested though.

The Astro clubhouse has been able to take in problem child players and make them team players. See aforementioned Everett, Carl.

 But see Meluskey, Mitch.

I don't think Burnett would be a Meluskey. Kerfeld might be a more appropriate comparison. Having said that, I don't think the Astros should waste their time. I think 2006 could be Astacio's coming-out year. He'll probably be in the rotation with or without Roger.

Obviously, the biggest need is offense (i.e. clutch hitting). Free Agency will likely produce nothing in that regard. Maybe Giles, but my guess is that a trade is more likely. Hopefully without the Beltran freeze, though, this will be a more interesting off-season than last year.

485

Talk Zone / Re: Rocket's made up his mind

« on: October 31, 2005, 11:32:41 am »

I'll be very surprised if he returns next year. He was beaten up physically by the end of the season, and he just hasn't sounded like a man who will continue playing. I know many people had the same impression the last 2 off-season (not me, by the way), but this just seems different. In any case, I'll be doubly surprised if he doesn't make the announcement well before the winter meetings, especially if he's already made up his mind. Last year's delay was in large part due to waiting for Beltran. There shouldn't be any such delay this time.

486

Talk Zone / Re: Get Back To Chicago

« on: October 26, 2005, 10:01:01 am »

In many ways, this series has reminded me of some of the NLDS the Astros played from 1997-2001. The Astros have had chances to win every game, but they haven't done the job when given the opportunity. The other team, though, has taken advantage of their opportunities, albeit sometimes late in the game when the Astros could have already put the game away. The bottom line is that the Sox have gotten the job done.

One difference from those past years, however, is that the Astros' pitching staff is still set up fairly well. If they are to become the first WS team to come back from a 3-0 deficit, they may be set up the best to do so. The biggest hurdles may be (in order) a) Backe going 7+ innings tonight to get the Astros the win, and b) Clemens coming back effective in Game 5. (Although the clutch hitting could be better, they're doing about as well as they have all season, and I see no reason to expect more out of them.) If the Astros can take it back to Chicago, albeit still down 3-2, they will have a chance to make history.

487

Talk Zone / Re: WS Roster

« on: October 22, 2005, 02:05:08 am »

I'd like to see Luke on the roster, but I also think that any real difference between having him, Zeke, Wandy, or another 25th guy on the roster is probably inconsequential.

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Talk Zone / Re: Astros' lineup

« on: October 21, 2005, 06:01:33 pm »

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I want to know if I can build a life-sized replica of MMPUS on my grave.

I love the Astros. That's why it matters!

Apparently, you love the Astros as much as Jimmy Hoffa loved the New York Football Giants.

That might be.

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Talk Zone / Re: Astros' lineup

« on: October 21, 2005, 05:53:16 pm »

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I'm particularly interested in who the Astros' DH will be.

I will be shocked if Jeffrey Robert Bagwell is not the 3rd hole hitter in the DH slot. Especially after reading that he was campaigning for the job, if you believe Starks.

I completely agree, although I think he might be better in the #6 or 7 hole. (I know this has been discussed already.)

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Talk Zone / Re: Priceless BFIB Footage

« on: October 21, 2005, 05:50:14 pm »

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I liked the part when he was talking about how great Busch is, and then sadly said "Shea stadium is next. Then it will all be over," as though that were not a good thing.

That part confused me. Was he saying that Shea is a good stadium? Even drunk, I can't imagine anyone thinking that.

It seemed that way. I can see where he's coming from. I've been to Shea several times, and always enjoy going. It's dirty, disgusting, unfeeling, ugly, soulless, and generally morbid. It's a one of a kind type of place, and classic in its own way. When it goes, it will be the end of an era. Again, that's a good thing, but it's still the end of an era, which has an inherent sentimentality about it.

My wife grew up on Long Island, so I always made a point of scheduling trips to visit her parents when the Astros were in town. I HATED Shea. By far, the worst stadium I've ever been to, even worse than old Arlington Stadium. I suppose I can see the point about the end of an era, but that's such a distant afterthought for me, it doesn't matter. Besides, are there any definite plans for the Mets to move?

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Talk Zone / Re: Priceless BFIB Footage

« on: October 21, 2005, 05:41:22 pm »

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I liked the part when he was talking about how great Busch is, and then sadly said "Shea stadium is next. Then it will all be over," as though that were not a good thing.

That part confused me. Was he saying that Shea is a good stadium? Even drunk, I can't imagine anyone thinking that.

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Talk Zone / Re: Astros' lineup

« on: October 21, 2005, 05:15:30 pm »

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Unless you are some sort of hard core gambler what freaking difference does it make between now and then?

I never even buy a lottery ticket, muchless gamble on sports.

What do you mean what does it matter? I'm an impatient baseball fan. That's reason enough! I want to know how many innings Roger goes tomorrow. I want to know if I can sneak into the house of someone with HDTV to watch every game. I want to know who the next rising star in the Astros system is. I want to know who the Astros are going to acquire at next season's trading deadline. I want to know when I'll have enough money to buy the Astros myself. I want to know if I can build a life-sized replica of MMPUS on my grave.

I love the Astros. That's why it matters!

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Talk Zone / Re: Let Me Set The Stage

« on: October 21, 2005, 05:07:08 pm »

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Who is this hoodlum, and does he have the proper vocal range to sing the national anthem?

Range???  You obviously have never heard his sentimental duet with Beyonce Knowles.  A masterpiece if there ever was one.

This is not that song but great stuff never the less:

I'm reppin' H-Town til the day that I die.
When you look in my eyes you can tell that I'm high.
You can talk the talk,
But you can't walk the walk
When it's time to ride, n!gga I won't get caught.


 Represent!!!

Okay. I'm now with Jim. Bomb the thread.

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Talk Zone / Re: Jeff Bagwell riding teams coat-tails???

« on: October 21, 2005, 05:05:30 pm »

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Quit while you're ahead and get the fuck outta here.

I hardly think you can call his post being "ahead".

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Talk Zone / Re: Jeff Bagwell riding teams coat-tails???

« on: October 21, 2005, 05:00:08 pm »

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1) Will he play for the Astros next year?

I think so, but that's my optimism talking. I have no inside information about the topic. I'm sure it will depend almost entirely on how his rehab progresses in the offseason and into spring training.

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2) Will he get his 18 million salary again next year?

I would think so.

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3) Does he deserve a ring if the Astros win the World Series?

Absolutely. It seems silly to even ask the question. Bagwell is the heart and sole of the team, even this year. Read the Stark article for an idea on ESPN.com. If you want to nit-pick about on-field contribution, I can think of at least one game that he won with a 9th-inning pinch hit. Without that, the Astros might not make the playoffs. But you don't even have to consider that. He's a leader on the team and I believe a key component to the Astros' success this year.

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Not to mention that he's on the roster. As other have pointed out, guys have gotten rings for doing MUCH less on championship teams.

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4) Would the Astros have had a better or worse chance of winning the Nat.League Championships if Bagwell had been in line-up?

In his current state? Worse. He can't throw, and that's kind of necessary when playing in the NL, even at 1st base. If you are talking about almost any other incarnation of Jeff Bagwell, he would definitely have been a big help to a lineup that struggled offensively at times.

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Talk Zone / Re: I found my ticket

« on: October 21, 2005, 04:29:53 pm »

So if they win, you will have made $750 net? Not bad. Good thing you didn't start this trend 44 years ago.

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Talk Zone / Astros' lineup

« on: October 21, 2005, 04:18:41 pm »

Having never cared as much about a World Series as I care about this one, I've never had as much interest in the starting lineups as I do. Does anyone have a good idea when the managers will announce the starting lineups? Will they wait until tomorrow afternoon/evening? As far as I know, there aren't any injury questions on either team that would necessitate a "game time" decision, so why don't they go ahead and announce 1-9 for game 1?

If they have already done so, what are the lineups? I'm particularly interested in who the Astros' DH will be.

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Talk Zone / Re: Let Me Set The Stage

« on: October 21, 2005, 04:11:08 pm »

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The setting - Pregame ceremonies, Game 3 of the World Series at Minute Maid Park.  Both teams assume their positions on opposite baselines.  Nervous tension is evident as the full-house crowd is going absolutely bezerker.

The stadium microphone crackles with an announcement.  "Ladies and gentlemen, please stand up, salute the flag and join Houston's very own recording legend in today's singing of the national anthem."

And out strollz  Oh You F#cking Know It!!!

Now the crowd is in a total frenzy and the White Sox have no chance.  This absolutely needs to happen.

Total frenzy? I think not. Who is this hoodlum, and does he have the proper vocal range to sing the national anthem?

The Houston Astros Club of Baseball Atheletics is a first-rate organization. We will not tolerate your ragamuffins or scallywags representing our team, city, state, and country in this way!

...(and what's with the Notre Dame medallion?)

Doesn't he look like a certified and bonafide Fighting Irish grad to you? He may drop a "Yeah...Hell Yeah" in after "Rockets Red Glare"!

Well, now, if he was wearing the Crest of the Harvard Crimson, then that might be a different story.

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Talk Zone / Re: Let Me Set The Stage

« on: October 21, 2005, 04:01:24 pm »

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The setting - Pregame ceremonies, Game 3 of the World Series at Minute Maid Park.  Both teams assume their positions on opposite baselines.  Nervous tension is evident as the full-house crowd is going absolutely bezerker.

The stadium microphone crackles with an announcement.  "Ladies and gentlemen, please stand up, salute the flag and join Houston's very own recording legend in today's singing of the national anthem."

And out strollz  Oh You F#cking Know It!!!

Now the crowd is in a total frenzy and the White Sox have no chance.  This absolutely needs to happen.

Total frenzy? I think not. Who is this hoodlum, and does he have the proper vocal range to sing the national anthem?

The Houston Astros Club of Baseball Atheletics is a first-rate organization. We will not tolerate your ragamuffins or scallywags representing our team, city, state, and country in this way!

...(and what's with the Notre Dame medallion?)

500

Talk Zone / Re: Why are some people allowed to steal my oxygen?

« on: October 21, 2005, 03:24:11 pm »

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Amazing.  And here I was fully expecting to see this link to the latest pile of dogshit by that jizz-bag Ryneberg.

I learned very soon after Ryneberg began "writing" for Yahoo that his stuff was worthless. He's a front-runner through and through. He doesn't look very deeply at teams, only at the surface. He knows almost nothing about the Astros, except what a stat sheet and the national media tell him.