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She's not unbiased. She gets her paycheck from the Astros.
It wouldn't surprise me if CJM had plenty of Texas suitors. He was one of a very rare breed: a double sport player (baseball and football) at a major university.
Not a big fan of your Tigers...the way they poach Texas talent in College Football makes me root against all of their sports teams. On the flip-side, if a Louisiana kid has the audacity to NOT go to LSU then he is labled a traitor, yet they have Texas players all over their friggin roster. Sorry to include "smack" in the thread (especially since the content has NOTHING to do with the baseball team)...seems to be a slow morning.
Speaking as someone that has done some baseball umpiring... You HAVE to set up with the catcher. You can't just set up in the strike zone and say "the hell with where the catcher sets up" because the catcher himself will be blocking your view of a pretty signifigant part of the plate if you do so.
Historically there were two schools of thought: what was called the American League School favored the umpire to stand in a wrestler, box or straddle stance directly behind the middle of the plate. AL umpires used outside chest protectors. The pad proves to be too bulky to work anywhere else but directly down the pipe. The AL stance is therefore slightly high and often the bottom of the strike zone will get cut off by the catcher's movement. This position afforded excellent view of the corners of the plate and top of the strike zone at all times.
The National League School umpire used an inside chest protector. These umpires were free to work the slot, best described as taking a position with your eyes centered down the side of the plate that the batter is standing on. In the slot you are able to work in quite close to the catcher, get lower in the zone, and see every part of the plate and strike zone. This position requires you to learn where the outside corners are in order to call them correctly (a skill that must be practiced regularly.) The NL stance also permits you to work in closer to the plate. Many umpires move so that their mask is actually over the catcher's back or even tighter, their shoulder. Getting too close in an invitation for an interference penalty. too far back and you will not see the plate.
There is nothing stopping an NL or slot-style umpire from taking a position in the center of the plate like an AL style umpire would. For the umpire using the outside protector attempts to use the slot will lead to many times when clear sight of the plate and strike zone is restricted. An interesting point to not here is that some umpires are very relaxed about your selection of position, some are adamant. For many umpires it is slot, and slot-only; for others it is over the catcher and that position only.
CJM:
Thanks for reminding me of your play as well. I was never more prooud of my baseball team than when you all won that 1991 national championship. It was vindication for all of the years of being treated like a half-ass minor sport with no support. At first, all the fan following pissed me off, like "why didn't you frontrunners come support us like that?" But then I realized that feeling was all about me, so it subsided. I then felt as much a part of the team as I did when I actually was.
This weekend has me in a melancholy way concerning the Box as it hosts its last SEC series, especially against the ageless Ron Polk, who used to kick our asses with regularity. He's retiring too. All the fun that we had in that place. All the pranks. All the goofing off. All the shagging balls and shooting the shit. All the rain delays, which were some of the funnest times in the park. And then all the winning that Skip brought in to the park, courtesy of guys like you CJM (who I voted for on the All Omaha Team) that was named after an LSU ballplayer WWII hero. What a continuing tribute that the new yard will continue to be "Alex Box Stadium."
With the talk tonight about Washington's shift on Berkman which seemed counter-intuitive, I wondered if managers ever call for the shift simply to get into a hitter's head, especially one who is in the zone like Lance seems to be. I've got to believe the hitter looks at the open field and at least momentarily considers trying to place one there. Coach?
This is eggszactly how Reed's crew rotated. The third base ump went to second in case of a close play/throw to second base, the first base umpire had his eyes trained on first base and the home plate umpire rotated to third while Wegner ran straight out to medium deep CF. Here is the problem with that rotation: The ball was tailing away from CF towards RF and the only way a catch could be made was running hard towards Right Center Field. What was Wegner doing staying put at medium deep CF when the ball was tailing. A few feet to his right, he sees the play cleanly. IOW - don't run to a spot, position yourself to make a call for goodness sake. The flight of the ball should've immediately told him that he's going to be out of position in case the ball is dropped, which turned out to be true. If you see the replay, Wegner actually makes an attempt at the last minute to move several feet towards right field, but by the time he's re situated himself, Spillborgh is in full slide and raising his arm with the ball in hand.
He admitted to Coop that is what happened. What made it worse was that the rotation the umpires made was one that made watching the play develop impossible for others, so no help was forthcoming. So to tell Coop that he (Wegner) was going to confirm with the entire crew was a hollow promise and one that would get me mad too. If they're in no position to help and you're not sure and admit you're out of position, why in the heck are you making an out call? And if you're the crew chief and you know all this, why do you toss Cooper because he's telling you and your crew that in this one particular play, four blind mice could've done better because the play should dictate your position, not some set rule about where you should run.
It's actually worse to tell me that they have a set place to run instead of watching the play develop and getting into the *best* positon possible to make a call. Again, I point to Berkman's slide last night. The home plate umpire positioned himself perfectly to make a call. In the game in Philly, the home plate umpire positioned himself behind the play shielding himself from the tag, so he went on his best knowledge of who arrived first, the runner or the ball. It put a play in doubt in my mind because the umpire called the runner safe (and he may have been, I dunno for sure) but did not leave me thinking the umpire had the best view of the play. All you can ask an umpire is for their best position on a play, anything else is call for some arguments.
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What was odd to me was where was the first base umpire on the play? Was he positioning himself to look at Blum run the bases (making sure he touches first base) thus taking himself entirely out of the play in the outfield? Usually the home plate umpire is running up the line to help with the runner if he knows the first or second base umpire needs to run out to the outfield to make a call. In this case, it looks like the first base umpire and home plate umpire muffed their chance to help the second base blue who got caught in no mans land when it came to making the correct call. A few feet to the right for the second base umpire or a first base umpire running out to help make the call would've solved the problem for the umpires.
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LSU has been crappy as well.
I'm serious, you were a really good hitter. No, my first year was 78, so I missed Mainieri too, but I played against him after Paul transferred to UNO.
I played for the Tigers too, but in the BB (before Bertman) era. I played for Jim Smith and Jack Lamabe. In 78, we were the worst team in the SEC, with a 12-34 record if my feeble memory is accurate. The coach got fired. We really weren't very good.
BTW, I watched you play a lot. We met a few times. You were a helluva player.
I was real active in traveling with the 91 club. What a magical season. From getting swept in the cold at Kentucky (that baseball powerhouse) to losing 2 out of 3 to a young Rod Delmonico team to the top of the mountain at Omaha. Unbelievable.
That was overthrowing. We didn't get clocked a lot. And there were lots of days when I was in the low to mid 70's.
I pitched in the SEC for four years. What kind of experience do you need?
Speaking of outside...I'm thinking about getting a flat panel LCD tv for outside on my covered patio. I currently have a regular CRT TV out there now, that has been out there for almost 8 years. I've been shocked at how long it's lasted, but it's been up there, in the heat and humidity, cold and rain, fog and smog and it's never had a problem. So my question is, would an LCD have any particular issues related to weather that you wouldn't also find in a regular CRT TV? If it would last 8 years out there, I'd glady fork over the cayshe.
anyone know when Fox Sports Houston does their first spring game?
"Right-hander Woody Williams will be moved up a day and start Saturday in Jennings' place. Left-hander Wandy Rodriguez will start Sunday, and Chris Sampson will stay on schedule and pitch Tuesday.
Monday's starter will be determined at a later date."
Why not pitch Sampson on 5 day's rest on Monday? Why does Garner feel the need to hold him 6 days?
It's only for some cable providers too, like Time Warner and Comcast. My brother lives in Brooklyn where Cablevision is his only option, so he is still SOL for the 'Stros games.
iN DEMAND owners Comcast, Cox Communications and Time Warner Cable have agreed to carry the package, effective immediately. iN DEMAND also will offer to make the MLB Extra Innings subscription package available to other cable companies across the U.S.
Bingo. I saw too many home run swings by Astros that ended up as strikes.
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He did pitch pretty well 7-6 2.30 era. And he did help the Astros get to their only Workld Series in 2005. Also for someone not signed to a contract it is kind of nice for him to pitch BP Monday and Tuesday at the prospect camp. I would in addition to pitching BP he may have passed on some tips, advice, or assisted somew of the Astros prospects. ..It be nice if he chose a eam or made a decision of what he is going to do. If he wants to win the Yankees would be a good choice for wins(also a good choice for money), The Astros have a lot of question marks..I'm sure last season was a disappointment to the team goes from going to the World Series to their worse season since 2000. They were in a weak division thats why they were in the mix, their record 15 games behind the Yanks and Mets, 14 behind the Twins, 13 behind the Tigers, 11 behind the A's, 1.5 behind the Cards, 6 behind the Padres and Dodgers.
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Clemens plans on being in Spring Training with the Astros, part of a personal services contract with the club that he is honoring...
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As is typical, the Astros sign/purchase a number of players out of the indy leagues every year. About half never even see a roster, getting their release at the end of spring training.
The 28-year old (not 27) Maldonado is at least the 3rd indy league player purchased this offseason, which includes former Astro Todd Self (who finished last year with Shreveport of the American Association). Maldonado lasted three years in the Giants' organization after being drafted in the 9th round in 2000. He's spent the last 4 years in the indy leagues and up until last season his numbers were all pretty crummy.
If Maldonado does make it out of spring training, then as Jacksonian says he probably becomes a spare part for CC.
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no, he is not.
Fox is reporting..
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When I saw this deal, the terms/money, and knowing what I do about Zito (admittedly not much, since he's in the AL) I immediately thought of Mike Hampton.
I am, of course, a genius. See most similar players by age:
The Link
I have a feeling this will be a huge albatross for the Gints.
Are the Giants moving to Denver?
Yes. Boras made them agree to that.
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wow he finally found his wallet.. wonder how it will stand when the new season begins
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there needs to be a all money ho former astro teamm including but not limited to
beltran..outfield
kent second base
petitte.. pitcher.. i am sure there are others .. what happened to loyalty and didnt he leave the yankees cuz he had his feeling hurt
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west coast teams, dodgers and Ms are supposed to be the front runners.
i know the hendricks brothers were his agents but he fired them before the year started then he hired another couple guys and then fired them a couple weeks ago. who knows wtf hes doing with his agents
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How much bigger is the hard drive on the Time Warner HD DVR box? And you say it doesn't count any more than the standard DVR box?
I intend to go the HD route after the first of the year,
I have an HD DVR from Time Warner. I've never filled it, even though the HD shows must be huge files to store. It does default to auto-erase a recording after 14 days which helps keep things a little cleaner, but you can change that to a shorter erase time, longer or never (customisable per show).
I had shit-loads of HD soccer matches on there during the World Cup, and it never complained.
I've filled mine up before. The latest DVR from Time Warner has a 160 GB hard drive. That equates to 80 hours of standard definition programming, or up to 20 hours of HD programming. If you get behind a few weeks of your weekly HD network programming and then record a few movies and sporting events, it can fill up.
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It is surprising that the roster is mentioned at 37. That seems pretty high. You figure Charton Jimerson's days are numbered, Jason Lane I'd guess as well.
How do you figure 37 players listed on the 40 man roster is high?
For this time of year, a team might leave itself with a little more flexibility to sign FAs and claim Rule 5 players.
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It is surprising that the roster is mentioned at 37. That seems pretty high. You figure Charton Jimerson's days are numbered, Jason Lane I'd guess as well.
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"...along with tweaking the Rule V draft"
The Link
Rule "Vee?" There is no rule vee. Oh yeah, he?s an expert. (fyi, dont bother reading the rest of the article.)
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I will miss the Braves on TBS, them and the Cubbies on WGN are a big reason I'm such a baseball fan.
Without ESPN, the divisional series will not be in HD, unless HDNet picks it up. That's a step in the wrong direction as well.
Looks like baseball fans are getting screwed again.
There's a high-def TNT channel. I'd bet they put 'em on there.
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Now I am not saying Ensberg was good, he sucked... but Huff was actually worse with the Astros this year.
you do realize that if huff had gotten a mere four more hits - seeing-eye singles, infield bleeders, whatever - that he would have "outperformed" ensberg in that category? and you think of all the times huff hit the ball really, really, really hard this year....
but screw all that - huff's career OPS is .819. as an astro, his OPS was .819. he was AS ADVERTISED, and performed well, imo. his astro-only pace would have yieled 35 hr's 102 rsbi over the course of a full, 604-ab season, which is how many he averaged the three previous years.
i would welcome huff back with open arms for a) the right price; b) assuming we add a better bat in addition to his. as your third or 4th best offensive player, he's great. as your second-best offensive player....
he's also LH and plays at least 3 positions decently. and unlike ensberg, stays healthy. a lefty bat is big. no guarantee on scott; no guarantee on lamb (who i would try to deal for arms... or an arm).
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With the gutty win in last night's game now safely in the bag and having to pick the poison at some point, I would now start Albers this afternoon and push Roy (and Rocket, more importantly) back a day. I'd take my chances rook vs rook; the 'stros are red-hot and will find a way to win.
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Jose De Jesus Ortiz will be on to finish the show in a couple of minutes. I can't listen... maybe someone else will.
Buck referred to the Houston writers as 'really good', naming Dick and Jesus specifically. And Footer, but I think mostly because she is smoking hot.
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I really enjoyed Lamb's PH AB in the 7th. As DeShaies said, he was standing there flat-footed, swinging from the waist up only. You could see it. (In addition to the team, JD was fucking on last night. His commentary about Ensberg running through the bag on the force out at 2nd to end the 8th was fascinating. I'd never heard of that strategy before, ever.)
I don't know if Lamb could have hit it out even if they had laid one in right down the middle, but he was going to put the bat on the ball.
I'm guessing a lot of your modern-day hitting stars don't make that adjustment.
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can we cut the xenophobia out please?
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So, are we trotting this out tonight:
Biggio
Ensberg
Berkman
Scott
Lane
Burke
Everett
Ausmus
Heyheyhey
Seriously, I would consider letting Biggio sit this one out, put Burke at 2nd, and let Willy play if he can.
Biggio will already be tired from last night and the travel, and the road has not been his friend.
Willy can try to put some bunts down the line and make Howard stretch a little...maybe enough to pull a groin or something.
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So you are saying ESPN sent someone to ask the Astros if they would pitch Clemens on Sunday? I guess that means ESPN has control over the Astros pitching rotation.
Why can't people just understand it was a baseball decision made by the baseball people and Clemens.
Your sarcasm meter is broke.
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Related question. How many guys signed for 2007 right now are untouchable? I count 2, Oswalt and Berkman.
Wheeler?
Not untouchable, I guess, but I'd put him in whatever catagory is closest to untouchable.
Or is he even signed?
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guess not. from last January:Quote:
Astros agreed to terms with RHP Dan Wheeler on a one-year, $930,000 contract.
The Link
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My guess is that they will give him every opportunity to get right in 2007. If he's not back to being a major league closer caliber pitcher by around the All-Star break...
Are you fucking kidding? The words Lidge, Astros, and 2007 should never be used in the same sentence again. He had "every opportunity" to get right in 2006.
So, do you think that the Astros management will trade him in the off-season (for whom or what, I cannot imagine) and absorb most of his $4 million plus salary, or do you think that the Astros management will release him outright and absorb all of his $4 million plus salary?
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Terrible mangaing. Just downright terrible.
...SNIP...
Also, it appeared to me that Jimerson should have advanced to third on the slow roller, no one was covering third. Of course, I am limited in field of view due to television, but that's what I saw.
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I missed the original reporting of the injury. Did a pitch in the dirt come up under his cup and nail him? Leather bar mishap?
The official report is that, yes, a pitch got him. That's the "washing my truck" version of the story.
Personally, I think he forgot his safe word.
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Please tell me you're kidding. Did they pay you interest?
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If the Astros win the next 13 games, I guarantee they make the playoffs.
In slightly related news, (and I'm being serious about this) does anyone know when TicketMaster gives refunds back for post-season tickets?
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...While Favre later backtracked, saying he?s 99-percent sure he?ll retire a Packer, he at least planted the seed. If Hall of Fame-to-be pitcher Roger Clemens had done that with Houston Astros owner Drayton MacLain in July, he?d be pitching in Boston or New York right now...
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Well that brings me back to my original question...HD cameras are different, then, correct?
HD cameras are, of course, different. I thought the original comment/question was on the subject of whether they use two sets of cameras, one HD one regular, for these broadcasts. The answer is no, they use only HD cameras but these boys also kick out a regular feed in parallel with the HD feed.
Presumably Fox has a limited number of sets of HD cameras (or maybe only one set) which would explain why not every game is in HD.
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Do they actually use a different camera for broadcasting in HD? If not, then you're actually getting less picture than a regular screen.
They must use the same camera. What you get is the same vertical picture, but an extra couple of inches on either side of the frame. And who doesn't like an extra couple of inches?
If they use the same camera, you get the same field of vision. They may stretch the picture to fit a different aspect ratio, but it's the same field of vision as a regular screen. You dont' get any more inches in HD, despite what you tell your wife.
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It's like watching a different game when you see baseball in HD. Besides the great picture quality, you get the benefit of the widescreen (16x9) view. You can see so much more of the game.
Do they actually use a different camera for broadcasting in HD? If not, then you're actually getting less picture than a regular screen.
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It's interesting that they brought up Quintero and not Munson.
Munson's 10 days are not up yet. He'll be up in September just like everyone else they may need that is available.
However, the chances are that both Sampson and House are being sent down now because they will be valuable to the RR Express for their playoff needs. I think both House and Sampson return only when the playoffs end for the AAA club.
His ten days aren't up yet, but they would be Aug. 30, which is soon enought for the playoff roster. I'm wondering if they think Quintero is a better catcher for Wandy.
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While I disagree with your general premise I'd warn you to just ignore CJM. He spends all his time trying to impress the popes.
You need to be just a tad bit less paranoid. We provide the "ignore" feature for all to use just to avoid such paranoid dellusions.
I suggest you use the feature to avoid reading post from those you think are out to get you... your life would be much more safer that way.
If not, then I guess you can continue to post *only* paranoid messages on this forum. We can all choose to ignore you as well.
I don't think anyone's out to get me. Don't worry. CJM's posting style mirrors several people who post or have posted here. Just my opinion.
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Phil Garner opted to sacrifice offense for defense at shortstop, but somehow Taveras' solid offense wasn't deemed strong enough to keep his strong defense on the field as Chris Burke got hot in late May.
Although Garner consistently said Taveras hadn't done anything wrong, sitting on the bench didn't feel any better for Taveras. Outsiders also scratched their heads...
But it wasn't until Burke played his way out of the lineup that Taveras got the chance to showcase his skills on a consistent basis again.
Taveras is even creating havoc these days with his legs. He didn't run as much while he hit second earlier in the year, because Garner didn't want opponents to see first base open and walk the team's one consistent power threat, Lance Berkman.
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...Although the offense has continued to struggle since hitting coach Gary Gaetti was fired July 12, there's no doubt Taveras has benefited from his new old hitting coach.
"After Gaetti left and the new coach started working with me, it became easier," Taveras said. "(Berry) was with me in Double-A and it became easier. Gaetti never worked with me. We never went to the cages.
"Maybe he didn't want to change anything, and he never worked with me. I don't know if they told him not to help me. He didn't work with me."...
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Since their great start in April the Astros have been one of the worst teams in baseball. While it takes a lot of turds to make a proper cesspool, Lidge's performance this year has been exceptionally foul. When Lidge was getting saves (albeit pretty shaky ones) early in the season the Astros were winning. Since he became the anti- Red Adair they have been losing. I know Lidge is not out there forcing Morgan Ensberg to change his batting stance seemingly with every pitch and watch a thousand called third strikes with runners on base. I know Lidge did not wave a shit encrusted rag over the line-up and put a 'can't hit Paris Hilton's weight' spell on them. I know if you look close enough at the numbers you can find a bunch holes in the team that have nothing to do with him.
I still think there is a correlation between his struggles and that of the rest of the team. That kind of uncertainty with the closer has a corrosive effect on the rest of the team. It's like having an alcoholic parent..you never know when they will be out in the middle of the street yelling at traffic and soiling themselves, or when they will be reasonably normal. Lidge is that guy right now. He may bring home the groceries and be clean shaven every now and then. When things go smoothly you can fool yourselves that it's like old times. But we all know that this just isn't going to last. Next time instead of groceries he might bring home his new best friends he met at the bar, pee on the couch and steal money out of your piggy bank. Just say no to Lidge for the rest of '06.
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He's going to be all right. We're going to continue to use him."
If he throws like he did last night, Garner has no reason not to. I've been critical of Lidge but I don't agree that last night was his fault. He threw a lot of good pitches and made Bell, Hall, and Graffanino look completely overmatched.
The error on the sac bunt was embarrassing.
It was apparent what he was trying to do, off the mound he was trying to back hand the ball so he could turn and go to second. You could see him turn his head to look. Tried to make the play that he hasn't made very often lately too quickly.
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I'd feel bad for Luke if he continues to produce this year and they end up signing Lee in the offseason...but, I mean...Carlos Lee.
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Anatomy of a fuckup
However, they had put Jason Lane out but he didn't clear waivers, that means whoever claimed him the Astros could have worked a deal there. But they didn't.
This, to me, is ever worse. We could have gotten SOMETHING, even if it was a single-A utility man, for Jason Lane. In what DID happen, we end up footing the bill for the Cardinals to replace Jim Edmonds with a proven RBI man (something no one could call Jason Lane).
I appreciate what he did for Wilson as a human being. That's very classy. I'll vote for Purpura when he runs for mayor. In the meantime, I thought he was trying to win ballgames.
I LOVE Borkowski in our pen, and even HE made more sense than Wilson.
If Wilson had kept playing, he would have projected to finish the year with 80 RBI, which would have meant he ended the year 2nd to only Berkman (who is from another planet).
Oh, and in case you weren't aware, Preston Wilson can competently play all 3 OF positions.
And really...that Lane is the 25th man instead of Bruntlett on the roster right now doesn't exactly impress me either.
Lane WAS down and Bruntett WAS up, so don't give me the "clearing waivers" line (not aimed at pravata; that was for anyone).
Lane was recalled when Palmerio went on leave, these are the players the Astros had at the time to play in the outfield, Wilson, Scott, Taveras, Huff, Bruntlett and Burke. They had Quintero who could have been called up and sent down ad infinitum. That would have given them Munson as a pinch hitter. They also have Jimerson and Josh Anderson on the 40 and under no waiver restrictions.
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And The Sopranos just turned to fuckin mush in the last few seasons. Few shows have taken such a drastic nosedive.
Right. If it's blood, boobs and profanity you're looking for, it's Deadwood all the way. When was the last time Tony actually did anything (other than beat on a hapless underling and then throw up)? Last night, Swearengen beat a Pinkerton Captain to a pulp, repeatedly kicked him in the balls, broke numerous ribs and finally slit his throat.
I recall reading somewhere that Deadwood's creator was/is committed to another series, therefore, HBO made the decision to pull the plug. Too bad. FWIW, scenes between Swearingen and Woo, with numerous oaths of "Cocksucker!" are tough to beat.
"I'd like to get the ball scores a little more fucking prompt."
After the season, they are going to do two hour long episodes to tie everything up.
The best was when Jewel gave Trixie a broach or something and Trixie asked her how she got the money for it and Jewel says, "I sold a piece of pussy."
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Okay, so according to the MLB.com article, if we release him and somebody else picks him up, at least we recoup whatever his new contract is worth for this year from what we still owe him. Clearly wouldn't be all of it, but it's better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick.
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Had to mention this afternoon ESPN reporting on Jim Edmonds leaving the Cardinals after this year and the Astros were mentioned in the destination speculation.
Anyone mention that Edmonds is scheduled for surgery on both his shoulders in the offseason?
Hypothetical: so if the organization DID sign him, he could potentially remain an Astro killer were the surgery to prove ineffective and he couldn't play.
Does he even have the range for the MMP centerfield? I could see that shoulder surgery getting blown the first time he runs up TH in pursuit of a deep fly ball and falls on his right or left one, if not his face. Not that I'd mind that a little...
Surely this is another in a series of total crock trade rumors. And, yes, I'll stop calling you surely.
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Huff is a 3b with enough athletic ability to run around in the OF if necessary. Not sure what we could get for MoBerg in a walk year - maybe the next six weeks will tell - but I don't think we could expect much. Signing Huff would probably mean fewer sparkly plays at 3b but you wouldn't lose anything at the plate at all. I like the thought a lot.
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Lane's already been to Round Rock this season. How can he not have cleared waivers?
He'd have to clear again, I believe. He has to clear each time he's optioned, if I'm not mistaken. Which is a distinct possibility.
Ummm...2 different kinds of waivers here guys. Or at least waivers as they apply to 2 different circumstances. Lane has options left, so he can be sent down and up as much as the front office likes. Because of the July 31 trade deadline, Lane can't be traded without clearing waivers. So, the bit about Lane clearing waivers was in response to Jim R. commenting that the Astros must be trying like hell to trade him, not to him being sent down.
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Just allow me to vent...
I blame this entire season fiasco on Tim (fat@ss do nothing) Purpura. It was blatantly obvious that after we got embarassed on Nat'l TV in our first World Series appearance that this club was in dire need of hitting. So what does fat@ss do about it? In the offseason he signs a guy that barley hits his weight in average and that's all. No other moves. Preston "I'm not good enough to be resigned by Colorado" Wilson is gonna be the savior of our offensive woes? Unbelievable. The 2006 team continues to struggle offensively for 81 games and Mr. Do nothing decides to get Aubry Huff? 81 games? Please wake me from this nightmare. It takes 81 games to get a second tier player. Make that deal earlier please. Like, say, a month into the downward spiral.
Trade deadline. Nice. I kept reading rumors, yet amazingly Purpura couldn't (or wouldn't) pull the trigger. How can he look at this team and go into and out of the trade deadline with NO NEW OFFENSE. It's an abbsolute crime. Remember when we needed pitching and Jerry Hunsicker brought us Randy Johnson at the deadline? Remember when we needed hitting and Jerry Hunsiker brought us Carlos Beltran? Remember when it was time to re-sign Beltran and Purpura let him get away? How'd that work out for us? How about .289, 33 HR, 96 RBI. Brilliant. Par for the course with fat@ss at the helm.
Rocket has an ERA of 2 and he has lost twice as many games as he has won. Oh, I dunno, maybe if we scored more than 2 runs a game he'd be 3-3 or here's a novel concept, how about scoring 4 -5 runs a game when he's on the hill and he might be 5-1 instead which potentially could have us leading the wildcard race. A hitter, a hitter, a hitter, PLEAaaase, bring us a hitter!
And if anyone with any clout is listening, after you bring us a new power hitter that also hits for average, a New GM would make for the greatest gift an Astro fan could ever wish for.
Now, that that is off my chest...I'll keep watchin', rootin', and prayin' that our 'Stros can pull another miracle and slip into the playoffs!
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Come to think of it, if it's the Arizona broadcast, they'll black it out.
Any word on whether it's the FSH broadcast?
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It's not free. It's $99 for the upgrade. They have to come out and give you a bigger dish and a new receiver. You finally get the local HDs through DirecTV rather than over an off-the-air antenna. I'm going to call DirecTV and see how to get the Astros games in HD.
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As for checking 95 and 96, I always do. It's my only chance.
Thank GOD, they show mostly Yankee games, because I just can't watch enough Yankees.
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Excellent! Thank you very much.
How big a pain in the ass is the MPEG4 thing?
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I can't believe what a pain in the ass it is to find this simple fucking information, but does anyone have a list of Astros games that will be broadcast in HD (I have DirecTV with the HD package and Houston locals) the rest of this year?
I've found multiple lists that show all sorts of games in HD (for example, tomorrow's game), but it's not ACTUALLY in HD in Houston (so what fucking good does that do me?).
Any help would be appreciated.
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Now, don't get me wrong. Garner's less-than-average ability as a Major League Baseball manager is nowhere near as big a problem as the Stros' chronic hitting woes or this season's overall lackluster pitching performance. Moreover, he is a genuinely nice man who is impossible to dislike personally. But the fact of the matter is that he is not a good manager. Among recent Stros managers, not as bad as Jimy Williams, mind you, but certainly not as good as Larry Dierker.
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Justice will be on 610 tomorrow at 8 AM for his weekly interview. The promo says, "Drayton says he never ordered Purpura to trade Lidge. Richard is standing by his story." Might be somewhat interesting.
How interesting could it be. Lidge is still with the team. Either Drayton's a liar, or Purpura should be fired. Pretty cut and dry if you ask me.
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Speaking of CP...J.R. House should start every game the rest of the way for the Astros at catcher.
Every game.
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Bagwell is going to meet the team in San Diego.
WOW, that's interesting. Do you have a link on this? Has he been on the road once this year? I only remember hearing of him being at MMP a couple times.
I'm REALLY glad none of the rumors I heard involving the Astros panned out.
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Post deleted by ValpoCory
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(1 being a butterfly sitting on the nose of a puppy dog, 10 being hitler winning the lottery because he beat up a blind, quadroplegic kid who really bought the ticket)
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The only thing I like about JDJO is that he'll be a HOF voter in a couple years, in time to vote for Bagwell. He has said on the Houston Sports show that he will vote for Bags.
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The super-geniuses over at AD have pinned today's loss on Gar for putting in a Chad Qualls who, until two days ago, was the best reliever in baseball over the past month.
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Considering managements relative non-action since Purpura got hired (He's a Chicagoan and a lifelong White Sox fan too, but that doesn't stop him from running the Astros), and McLane's history I think the Florida question is quite legitimate, since we really don't know what the direction the team is going after Biggio, Bagwell, Pettite and Clemens retire.
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I'm glad players are speaking out and not holding their feelings inside. I'd hate to see the anger boil over and have an incident like Julian Tavarez picking a fight with a concrete wall, or a player kicking coolers, or a player going WWF smackdown style on Cameramen
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Because using the press to express your feelings is always the right thing to do?
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I don't think I have ever seen a Boras client sign with a team that didnt also have the highest offer. The only exception might be Beltran with the Yankees, which Boras is said to have told their brass that they could have him for $100 million over 6 years.
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Of course not. But Pettitte's comments, in my opinion, were spot on. He said we're not doing anything right. He said we're not hitting or pitching. Fairly innocuous, I think.
Did I say anything about Pettitte's comments?
No, you merely posted a response in a thread devoted to Andy Pettitte. Silly me.
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I'm glad players are speaking out and not holding their feelings inside. I'd hate to see the anger boil over and have an incident like Julian Tavarez picking a fight with a concrete wall, or a player kicking coolers, or a player going WWF smackdown style on Cameramen.
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Because using the press to express your feelings is always the right thing to do?
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Of course not. But Pettitte's comments, in my opinion, were spot on. He said we're not doing anything right. He said we're not hitting or pitching. Fairly innocuous, I think.
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I've got pretty thick skin and I don't intend to change anyone. I'll leave that to God.
Well, it's getting closer to game time. Time to kick my Cubs loving wife off the big screen, grab a few beers, and watch the Astros!
Jim's a long established asshole here. He's also older than God. No changing that man.
Seriously, astrosdaily.com is a nicer version of this board if you're interested.
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I'm somewhat surprised. My wife (A huge Cubs fan - what can they say opposites attract I guess) joined a board similar to this one and the discussion was on point, no insults or cursing. I join an Astros board and the very first response to my post from a Texan (the "friendly" state) is a response I would expect out of my nephew. I just was curious to see someone answer a question another more experienced poster asked. But I'm the one who gets "attacked".
And no I'm not running to the Cubs site to "hold hands" and sing some 70s flower child Liberal peace song. I expected insightful discussions on baseball but it seems that some posters on this board are not interested in that.
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I'm glad players are speaking out and not holding their feelings inside. I'd hate to see the anger boil over and have an incident like Julian Tavarez picking a fight with a concrete wall, or a player kicking coolers, or a player going WWF smackdown style on Cameramen.
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Which part was "horribly stupid baseball?
The part about trying to get one run while risking one of your 4 outs left in the ballgame when down 7 runs. You play station to station and play for a rally. You don't hope to chip one run away in the 8th and get 6 more in the ninth.
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Yet another wise guy. I hang around because I'm interested in Astros baseball fan. Duh! And no, I've been a fan of the Astros for 30+ years. Not about to leave them now.
Isn't this a baseball discussion. Anyone care to talk about the Astros without cursing, sarcasm. etc.
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Give me Tim's cell# and I'd be happy to call him. But it seems no one on this board can answer a question (that another more "experienced" poster asked).
A friend of mine advised that this board was an excellent place to discuss the Astros. I guess he was wrong....you seem more interested in insults than a good baseball discussion.
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Down 7-0 with one out in the 8th and you finally have two men on base. Flyball to the outfield and you get your backup catcher gunned at the plate trying to tag.That my friends is Chicago Cubsesque. 99% chance it wouldn't make a difference, but it's just horribly stupid baseball.
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...They certainly don't seem to know outfielders, but they know pitching...
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Morgan Ensberg-
Total Plate Appearances- 349
On Base %- .390
Runs Scored- 49
Preston Wilson-
Total Plate Appearances- 370
On Base %- .316
Runs Scored- 36
Preston Wilson is doing a better job than a lot of guys at driving runs in, but it's hard to be a big asset when you're a corner OF not getting on base or hitting for power.
WTF does Ensberg and how many runs he's scored have to do with Wilson? Are you so much of a shitbird that you have to just post something in every thread Jim does?
It's a demonstration that driving in runs isn't the only thing middle-of-the-order hitters do. They score runs as well. That's entirely relevant to a discussion that includes a reference to Wilson's low OBP.
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Morgan Ensberg-
Total Plate Appearances- 349
On Base %- .390
Runs Scored- 49
Preston Wilson-
Total Plate Appearances- 370
On Base %- .316
Runs Scored- 36
Preston Wilson is doing a better job than a lot of guys at driving runs in, but it's hard to be a big asset when you're a corner OF not getting on base or hitting for power.
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What are the odds of Borkowski being able to clear waivers?
I would think that someone would take a chance on him. Lot's of teams need bullpen help.
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Buchholz stays according to Garner on 790. They're going to go without a 5th starter until July 22nd and they'll probably recall Backe then.
Also, Oswalt's going to pitch the 3rd inning tonight assuming Penny can get through the first 2.
That means Brokowski is history and going back to AAA (if he clears waivers I suppose, someone has to come of the 40 man for Backe). I don't see them sending Nieve down.
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ESPN will air a special behind-the-scenes look at the Astros on the road. Bob Holtzman and crew joined the club on its trip to Chicago last weekend and filmed footage they will use to depict "a day in the life" of the Astros on the road. The segment is scheduled to air on Sunday during the 9:30 a.m. CT SportsCenter, and then again on the 10 p.m. telecast, which will repeat through the night.
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I'm getting a bit disturbed with Garner moving around and benching the younger players. If these guys can't play a regular position, send them down to AAA so they can play everyday. This constant state of flux can't be helping the ballclub and is certainly not helping the development of the younger guys.
Oh, and can we trade Preston Wilson for somebody? His lack of effort and constant K's are getting frustrating. He's the poster boy not driving in runs lately.
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Last time we checked in on the Astros, they had an entirely VORP-less outfield.
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What type of players would it take to get Carlos Lee? I don't think Wandy is enough, what about Wandy/Lane?
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um... What was that?
My opinion is Qualls & Wheeler. I think there is something political going on between Qualls & Garner.
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In your opinion, who is the mose underrated Astro? Who is the most overrated Astro?
I know a guy named Carl something, Carl Dudes I think, who'd probably be able to help you. Give him a call some time, but be prepared because he's probably gonna ask you what your choices are. Don't worry though, anything you say will be okay, and you'll probably receive a good-natured chuckle from ol' Carl. He might even ask some of his friends to give their opinions on the subject of your query, and it could stoke a pretty deep dialectic. Good luck with your journey, Indiana Astro. God speed. I know that some day you will ease your flummoxed mind and find out who indeed is the most overrated and most underrated Astro. You must discover the truth Indiana, do not, I repeat, DO NOT, stop until you have found it. But be careful, because there are those out there who do not want you to find it. These people might seem like your allies, they might even seem like your best friend, but you must not let them derail you. You must stay true to your vision, stay true to your quest, keep asking this question and do not accept false answers. Ask ask ask until the world becomes so tired of hearing it, so tired of giving diversionary non-commital platitudes, that they have no choice but to give the truth to you, no choice but to squeeze out the answer, the revelation of who indeed is the most underrated and most overrated astro.
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you see, Arky, you are doing it too. there is no CORRECT, prima facie or otherwise, to a baseball decision. the person who makes it has a baseball reason for it, and it does not have to be logical to anyone else.
adama, you are an idioot. totally an idiot. go post on some fantasy site. that is what you are suited for, not here.
'Course here's a quote from Garner, who I guess made the decision:
"It creates a little bit problem if Willy starts swinging the bat," Garner said. "And he has started to. In the last couple times Willy has had pinch-hit appearances, he's gotten hits. Willy is going to hit and he's going to play good. Willy's not playing now doesn't have anything to do with what Willy has done. He's struggled a little bit at the plate and we've been trying to find something to make us click. We tried Chris out there and he's been playing good since it happened."
The Link
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You don't think there should be a logical reason for moves made by the club?
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"I tell ya, life ain't easy for a boy named 'Sue.' "
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Catcher Michael Barrett gave his side of the story during (his appeal) hearing Friday, but he was not in the Cubs' lineup because he injured his back on a swing in the first inning the day before. ... Barrett, (is) sidelined indefinitely with the injury, which tightened up on him overnight.
The Link
Great: Barrett gets to serve his "suspension" while he's injured. I just hope that somewhere some baseball god is preparing suitable punishment.
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...and it is considered and Ivy League education.
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What I've heard in bits and pieces is something like a less severe version of Meluskey's shoulders... Dierker was talking about a "shoulder shrink" last night. I think Meluskey had his capsules tightened, or something like that.
Bleach Meloosky is an excellent example of what Burke is looking at. Meloosky had two surgeries if I remember correctly. One was done in the minors and then another one when he re-injured the shoulder in the majors. It will take the entire season away from Burke to have it done.
Hopefully Burke's in 'n' out shoulder condition foreshadows him becoming more of a "loose cannon" type, ala Riggs (Mel Gibson) from Lethal Weapon, who used his condition to escape from a pretty hairy straight-jacket situation or two...but who would be the Murtaugh to Burke's Riggs, I wonder?
Quote:Quote:I don't know anymore when people are kidding about this kind of stuff, it's gotten so ridiculous. Who needs to watch the game? Just run a query or download a spreadsheet. You can find a spouse that way now too. Try it.
According to my Blocking Plays At the Plate metric (BPAP), Officer Brad rates at a 3.726, which ranks him 21st in the league among regular catchers over the past five years. Of course, this figure is not calibrated for the quality of the throws, or the weight of the opposing baserunner.
Quote:Quote:Quote:You think he's one of the worst when it comes to plays at the plate? I think he's solid, more than solid.Quote:
Wow. How many other catchers bobble that, allow a run to come in while the ball squirts off who knows how far, and consequently extend the inning with Giles? Not because of a bad play they would have made, but because of a great play they didn't make.
Huge play. And yes, nice throw by Berkman.
it's weird with officer brad because he usually appears to be one of the worst when it comes to plays at the plate, but he's one of the best when it comes to blocking pitches. the throw by berkman had a definite "blocking pitches" kind of bounce to it.
According to my Blocking Plays At the Plate metric (BPAP), Officer Brad rates at a 3.726, which ranks him 21st in the league among regular catchers over the past five years. Of course, this figure is not calibrated for the quality of the throws, or the weight of the opposing baserunner.
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it's amazing to me to watch the progression from not even being named in the affidavit to being drawn and quartered for doing HGH inside of an afternoon.
I seemingly remember a Biggio thread where those reporting rumors were lamblasted for lack of credible evidence.
In this case, the evidence presented, is a friend of someone that has neither been arrested, tried, nor convicted. but simply been named by a former player, for all the worth of a "well he said it". and the rest of it consists of the fact that he grew up from being a teenager.
good job everyone on staying level-headed and objective. how about waiting until some actual real information comes out before busting your collective nuts.
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Send Preston packing
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I hate to say this Noe, but if Everett keeps hitting .209, you may be begging the question.
Why do you think he's hitting .209, Neil? You can do it, come on. Why?
Because he has 36 hits in 179 official at bats. Get yourself a calculator and do the math ... it works out that way every time you try.
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Palillo's been harping on the Astros & their minor leaguers for months now. Says it's "ridiculous" that Hunter Pence is still in AA. Was babbling about Patton being in AA *last year*; Zobrist is his newest shiny object: "I guarantee you he could put up better numbers than Adam Everett *today*" Constantly bitches about the Stros not promoting players soon enough (all based on their ages & statlines).
He's generally a pretty sharp guy, from what I've heard, but he'd be better off just not talking about the farm systems.
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A couple of things:
I don't remember seeing Garner more concerned/pissed/focused/whatever than he did last night. He had a real determined look the whole game, reminded me of the old SCRAP IRON.
Willie T.-looked strong last night in CF made a great running catch on a line drive to rcf (even more important got a great jump)and then made a real good play cutting off another ball in the gap and holding CoArd to a single.
Morgan -good solid play at 3rd...
Ausmus- as good as he is defensively, he isn't strong on tag plays or blocking the plate. The Ensberg play the ball beat the runner by a bunch and the guy should have been out by a mile, but if you look at the replay he damn near snuck his foot in there before the (high) tag.
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My bad. I think they'll win.
But really, don't we all assume they'll win it?
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You ever considered language that doesn't offend roughly 2.3 billion people?
yeah, i hate it when people say "son of a bitch."
2.3 billion people have bitches as mothers.
I assume there's a line somewhere on this site, and my humble suggestion is that a blashpemy against a major world religion is in bad taste.
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You ever considered language that doesn't offend roughly 2.3 billion people?
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There's Baseball Prospectus concept that, regardless of how you feel about statistical analysis, summarizes Gallo's position: VORP, value over replacement player. The idea is that Gallo is worse than your pick of available pitchers in AAA. He is more than replacable.
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Yeah there is a curfew rule & if we went over it then they would suspend the game until the following day. There is not a set time per se it just depends on the specific city. Pittsburgh could have a 2AM curfew and Houston could have a 4AM but either way the city curfew is definitely later then 1 AM.
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He's always been fucking terrible- His job on the team is to get lefties out and they rake his ass at an alarming rate.
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Yeah, that's incredibly stupid if he's going to play any oufield at all limit it to left field in Houston. Not only for his hamstrings sake but for the damn sake of team defense because he's butchering balls on a daily basis in the outfield.
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...Don't know why we had to wait for Berkman and Ensberg to quit hitting homers every game to make the change, but hooray for it being made finally.
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Anyone know which hotel the Astros stay at in DC?
Ritz- Carlton Pentagon City
Thanks.
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Anyone know which hotel the Astros stay at in DC?
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The Houston customers are nothing if not bandwagoners. And their hometown newshounds wag behind.
Why is their so much dogging of Houston fans and media on this site?
Pick up a Houston Chronicle in the morning, and while you are reading the sports pages, listen to 610 AM. You'll get your answer.
Regarding 610 callers, my theory is that sports radio always brings out a certain type of person, no matter the city. I don't think that's reflective of Houston fans sucking or anything like that. I think Astros fans are above average, though that's so subjective it can't be defended. At any rate, I don't see why people whine about Stros fans so much.
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The Houston customers are nothing if not bandwagoners. And their hometown newshounds wag behind.
Why is their so much dogging of Houston fans and media on this site?
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The object of Milo's desire.
Dude is obviously getting laid by someone/thing. Good for him. He should leave it at the door of the booth, though.
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OK, I'm climbing off the ledge...
Wandy and Buchholz are pitching well so far, but this doesn't excuse Purp from not getting a veteran backup option in the offseason.
None of these young pitchers are a proven commodity, and rookies tend to go downhill a few months in once the league starts to figure them out. See "Robertson, Jeriome". One of these guys may turn out to be good, or even great, but not all three/four of them at the same time while trying to win a division.
There's also no guarantee that Backe is going to come back and pitch this season. The GM is going to have to face this eventually, and do his job. Plugging in inexperienced pitchers is only a stopgap. What happens if Pettitte or Oswalt get hurt?!? I'm not really in favor of throwing bags of cash at Team Bastard for a half-season of Clemens' "no run support" whining, either.
I'm not totally blaming the youngsters, the pitching staff isn't getting it done as a whole. It's not like the Rockies and Dodgers are the 1927 Yankees.
Still, the bump in the road this season is a whole lot better than last year at this time! (so far.)
A win tonight will make me feel a lot better.
Which veteran pitcher should he have signed?
What makes you think he didn't look into any veterans out there?
Why would anyone predict Backe was going to get injured?
Why didn't Oswalt start sucking once everyone had seen him a few times?
Why are Wandy and Taylor the same as Jeriome?
Why have the Rockies been winning when not facing the Astros youngsters?
What happens to a team when any of their good pitchers get hurt?
Those are all very good points, but Mr. "Minor League Coordinator" Purpura seems to think that the only guys that can help the team are in the Astros minor league system.
The excuse of "looking into outside help" is a lot different than having the cojones to pull the trigger on a major signing or trade to actually help the team. It's not like that can happen right now, but he should have been a lot more active in the winter, and should be more active at the deadline. Preston Wilson was a nice first step, but it was obvious then as it is now that another pitcher or two was needed.
It will be interesting to see if he can make some real MLB GM-type moves once the Bagwell contract is off the books. That is, if Mr. McLane will let him.
BTW: I've been whining about the Astros since 1986, so that's nothing new.
I'll stop when the Astros win a championship, and not that stupid Boot either.
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Drop in and visit Roger
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I said I heard this over the radio today
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No, No, it was Monday I believe.
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Edited by CJM (05/10/06 11:27 PM)
Looks like he decided to delete that last post.
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Clemens has an agreement with the Red Sox. Did not say when he will sign but an agreement has been reached. Even some New York media outlets are stating sources say Clemens is not going to sign with the Yankees because he has reached a deal with another team. Guess no more talk with the Astros?
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Yes, you should follow these rules. I said I heard this over the radio today, and this is all I could find over this issue on the internet.
Read more...post less.
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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
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Clemens has an agreement with the Red Sox. Did not say when he will sign but an agreement has been reached. Even some New York media outlets are stating sources say Clemens is not going to sign with the Yankees because he has reached a deal with another team. Guess no more talk with the Astros?
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OK, I'm climbing off the ledge...
Wandy and Buchholz are pitching well so far, but this doesn't excuse Purp from not getting a veteran backup option in the offseason.
None of these young pitchers are a proven commodity, and rookies tend to go downhill a few months in once the league starts to figure them out. See "Robertson, Jeriome". One of these guys may turn out to be good, or even great, but not all three/four of them at the same time while trying to win a division.
There's also no guarantee that Backe is going to come back and pitch this season. The GM is going to have to face this eventually, and do his job. Plugging in inexperienced pitchers is only a stopgap. What happens if Pettitte or Oswalt get hurt?!? I'm not really in favor of throwing bags of cash at Team Bastard for a half-season of Clemens' "no run support" whining, either.
I'm not totally blaming the youngsters, the pitching staff isn't getting it done as a whole. It's not like the Rockies and Dodgers are the 1927 Yankees.
Still, the bump in the road this season is a whole lot better than last year at this time! (so far.)
A win tonight will make me feel a lot better.
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and Gallo- Needs to go.
...because Lofton was able to bloop one in that was 2" off Willy's glove?
No, because every time he comes in he gives up a hit. He makes 2 pitches every time he appears and always gives up a hit then you see Gallo flipping the ball in his hand in frustration followed by Garner yanking him- all he does is put Wheels and Qualls in terrible positions.
Edit* Gallo- 16 hits and 3 BBs in 7.1 innings= TERRIBLE.
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Still I don't care what your reputation is....YOU'VE GOT TO OPEN UP YOUR STRIKE ZONE & Swing the bat!!!!!
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For the Austin folks who may be interested, the TV listings have Wednesday's game in HD for our market as well - Time Warner ch 1604. If you go by Fox Sports' HD page, however, Wednesday isn't listed under FSSW, though quite a few others are. I haven't found either source to be completely accurate in the past, so I guess we just have to wait and see.
The Link
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Time Warner Cable will air five Astros games in HDTV this month on channel 302. The games are Wednesday at Los Angeles, May 26-27 at Pittsburgh and May 29-30 at St. Louis. ...
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The following games are scheduled to be broadcast in High Definition. There will also be a Sunday night game vs. STL that will be shown on ESPN-HD. This is only for Time Warner Cable in Houston, I don't have any information about other providers (DirecTV, Dish Network, etc.).
Astros HD Telecasts
Wed. May 10, 9:00 p.m. at Los Angeles Dodgers
Fri. May 26, 6:00 p.m. at Pittsburgh
Sat. May 27, 6:00 p.m. at Pittsburgh
Mon. May 29, 3:00 p.m. at St. Louis
Tue. May 30, 7:00 p.m. at St. Louis
Mon. June 26, 6:00 p.m. at Detroit
Tue. June 27, 6:00 p.m. at Detroit
Fri. Aug 4, 8:30 p.m. at Arizona
Sat. Aug. 5, 8:30 p.m. at Arizona
Fri. Aug 18, 7:00 p.m. at Milwaukee
Sat. Aug 19, 6:00 p.m. at Milwaukee
Thu. Aug. 24, 6:00 p.m. at Pittsburgh
Fri. Aug. 25, 6:00 p.m. at Pittsburgh
Fri. Sept. 8, 7:00 p.m. at Milwaukee
Mon. Sept. 11, 7:00 p.m. at St. Louis
Tue., Sept. 12, 7:00 p.m. at St. Louis
Wed. Sept. 13, 1:00 p.m. at St. Louis
TWC (in Houston) plans to broadcast these games on ch-299 (IN-HD2)
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Ringolsby is right, His opinion was very constructive in my opinion & to tell you the truth, I agree with him. The grocer didn't do everything possible, with that being said hopefully Drayton will get the deal done so we can have Clemens because I think he can still help us, But with the emergence of TBUCK and company it's not as high of a concern.
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It was a terrible decision on Biggio's part, I knew he was meat as soon as he rounded 2nd. The game was tied at that point and if he would have stayed at 2nd, it would have given Berkman a chance to knock him in as long as WillyT didn't hit into a linedrive double play. Really terrible decision on Bidge's part.
It took a beautiful relay throw to get him by a hair. I don't see how it can be looked at as a "really terrible decision". It may have been the wrong decision (because he was thrown out), but the risk/reward of the situation made it a good move, IMO.
I disagree because if Lance gets a base knock, or willy for that matter, he will pretty much score from 2nd on anything. It basically gave us at least 2 opportunities to knock him in. Rickie Weeks did a similar thing today, it was a different scenario but he was caught trying to make it to 3rd with 0 outs in the inning and it came back to hurt him.
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It was a terrible decision on Biggio's part, I knew he was meat as soon as he rounded 2nd. The game was tied at that point and if he would have stayed at 2nd, it would have given Berkman a chance to knock him in as long as WillyT didn't hit into a linedrive double play. Really terrible decision on Bidge's part.
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She's asking what goes with what - what do you touch for steal, for example.
Anything. One touch after the indicator is a steal. Two touches is a bunt, etc. It's not *what* you touch, it's how many times you touch and when.
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...But when you see Burke play he is a lot better due to his tremendous range and arm. Burke can make plays deep in the whole behind second base and have enough on his throws to get people out.
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I'm pretty pissed that he wasn't pulled when the trainer went to the mound. Everyone in the organization knows Backe's personality. If there was a decent chance that he could do more damage by continuing then get him out of there right then. Waiting till the middle of the inning so as not to rush Buchholz is no excuse. I realy hope this isn't serious.
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Cubs and fish got into such a pickle last year or the year before and as I recall they played a double header on a mutual off day, and then played a double header in florida's park (giving the fish an extra home game). I might be wrong on the last part, but I know for a fact they had a double dip on an off day in wrigley.
This was when the fish played like 8 games in 5 days and contributed to them wilting down the stretch.
Games in Florida got rained out and some (1?) was made up at Wrigley. Cubs were considered the home team and batted last, which was total BS.
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Wilson is 0/2 on stolen base attempts so far this season. But I think it's way too early to sound the alarm.
Good point. I didn't intend to sound an alarm on Wilson. I just, in general, sometimes feel like Garner's one downside is overaggressive baserunning. But I'm a big fan of him, and I consider that a minor downsider, if one at all. I could be mistaken.
I was just surprised the other day when (if I remember correctly) we hit and run with Ensberg on 1b and Wilson at bat. That struck me as a questionable hit and run combo, but what do I know?
And good point on the small sample size and good record. I wasn't whining about our offense. Just trying to gauge y'all's thoughts on whether Garner pushes too hard to manufacture runs.
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It strikes me as ironic that you would ever allude to someone else as a pompous know-it-all. I asked a question, stated an impression (which I didn't assert as fact), and sought feedback. You offered a know-it-all one-liner that dismissed the question entirely.
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I know they replaced the turf in some areas last season (Astros bullpen, RF & a few others) but I don't think 3-4 times a year is correct.
It may have been correct in 2004, when they replaced the turf specifically for the All-Star game, in addition to their normal routine. They may do it for the playoffs, too.
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Ah yes, I am a teacher and I make mistakes. I guess I should try to attain perfection before I move on.
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What I can't understand is why many of you would choose to read my stuff on the numerous sites I write for if you think I'm and idiot and can't string more than a few words together.
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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.
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I applied to work with the Astros to use my statistics background. They said they were impressed, but it was suggested I start at the minor league level and move my way up. At this point in my life, that is not a realistic possibility, but it might be for him. I'd maybe check with Corpus or Round Rock and see if they have any openings. Then, he might be able to work his way up the ranks.
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The Link
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Wouldn't a proxy present bandwidth problems?
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Is it me or is some of this talk flaunting last year's success in the face of the BBGs? It's beyond my judgement. I'm gettin' my ass to the Church of the BBGs to make amends...
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Oh, btw, they will be on HD... the listing is as follows:
Channel: 1604 FSNHD
Ok, ignore my post above. I was referring to Time Warner's high-def lineup only. I didn't know FSN had a high-def channel. Guess I better get on the phone to Time Warner cable (like that'll make any difference...it took 'em two years to get ESPN HD).
Is this on DirecTV or Dish? Maybe I'll have to look into that again.
I'm getting my info from tv guide online. They list channel 1604 for FSNHD and as a high def channel. On the grid, you can click on the link "HDTV only" to view the listing. BTW - this is the listing from Time Warner/Round Rock and Austin, so you're listing may be different.
Well I'll be damned. You people in Austin are getting a high-def FSN on Time Warner cable?! I'm getting on the phone right now! It ain't fair!
However, even though you lucky dogs may have the channel, I'm not sure tonight's game is in HD, even though it's on that TV Guide thingy. After looking into this a little more, FSN's HD guide: The Link only shows that there are a few "real" HD broadcasts on each of their networks each month. It's not showing any Astros games in April. I'm betting they just show their regular broadcast on their HD channel otherwise. Hopefully I'm wrong and you get the Astros in full HD glory tonight, but I'm not sure you will.
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McEwing is an older, crapper version of Bruntlett.
Ransom just plain blows.
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What is the point of acquiring these scrubs? I hope the players to be named end up being each other.
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Arguing about an argument. Well done.
About as impressive as jumping on a guy for throwing out an idea the week before Opening Day, I suppose.
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The disagreement began because it made no sense (still doesn't).
Where does somebody come up with that kind of shit (Pena in place of Lamb)?
You said his facts were not baseball related, but they were. He came up with "that kind of shit" by looking entirely at statistics. You and I may disagree with his proposal, but it wasn't as though he reached into his ass and threw out some entirely unrelated material to support his assertion.
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Your "facts" made no baseball sense.
Sure they did. What they didn't do was paint the whole picture. That's where the disagreement began.
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I agree that if you base a comparison entirely on ESPN's year-old scouting report, and ignore their career stats, Lamb is a much better option.
Meaning what? That you would dispatch a very good contributor to your bench for the bird in the bush *based* on career stats? Why? Because you're bored? Do you even *watch* the Astros play?
Dude, why are you getting so angry about this? It's not a big deal. I simply posed the question: "Any chance they'll pick up Carlos Pena? He might be more valuable than Lamb at this point." Then I answered your subsequent questions. I'm not saying Mike Lamb sucks, I simply wondered aloud about this minor issue, then I presented facts showing why it might be worth considering. Is it really that infuriating to suggest that a guy, only 27, who could turn out to be a very useful full-time player, might at least be worth a thought? Is it worth getting so worked up over that you throw the "Do you even *watch* the Astros play?" at me?
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How so? It's a pretty common play when you have a foul to give.
Tie game, 10 seconds left, Sweet Sixteen. Rather than setting up a play to get off a good shot, they draft a play that, at best, results in three free throws and, at worse, gives Texas the ball with 8 seconds left? And the best case scenario occurs only if they *guess* correctly that Texas will foul.
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Just a warning, but people with slower internet connections, slower computers, or a small amount of RAM (< 512MB) probably shouldn't use this. Firefox since version 1.5 is already a beast in terms of memory usage, and with this extension you'd essentially be loading 11 pages at once (search results page plus 10 or so links). It could make your computer run slower while Firefox is running.
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VIERA, Fla. -- Alfonso Soriano refused to play the outfield for the Washington Nationals in what was supposed to be his spring training debut Monday night, and general manager Jim Bowden said his biggest offseason acquisition will go on the disqualified list if he doesn't agree to switch positions this week.
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I think Pete hit the nail on the head. All of this uproar over Bagwell making a throw is crazy. He has not been able to throw for a while now. It wasn't a big problem in 2004 because he was still able to swing the bat well enough every day. He's never going to make a "pretty" throw. He's never going to be able to get much on the ball. Ever. Can he control the pain well enough to play every day? I think that's what Bagwell is trying to find out, and it's going to take more spring training games before he knows. The fact that he's been able to do this much is more than some expected.
Sounds like there were fans under the impression Bagwell was going to be like a groundhog. If he throws a strike to third base the Astros get one more year of Jeff Bagwell, if he doesn't they get a check from Lloyd's of London.
I wonder if he's tried throwing sidearm.
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We have a sports-talk host here in ATL that I actually find to be very entertaining. He's a good baseball man. Anyhow, he's been down in spring training the last couple days and was at Kissimmee covering Roger's simulated game. Anyhow, I'm listening to the show and he starts in with, "I've been going to spring training for years now and there's always this same idiot hanging around the Astros asking the most ridiculous questions. I don't know his name because I refuse to take the time to find out, but he's terrible."
He goes on to say that this same dipshit asked the following question: "Hey Raj (as he taps him on the shoulder to get his attention), so...you serve up that homerun pitch to Koby so he'd look good in front of the Astros management?"
Any guesses on who the dipshit was? Again, he never said the guy's name so I have no idea.
Carl Dukes.
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The back of the rotation last year was something of a muddle. That back moved up a slot in the offseason. That hurts.
We picked up one good bat. Maybe a very good bat, but injury prone.
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Do the Astros sign autographs when they first get to MMP on game days? I have never had a problem getting autographs outside the stadium in Philadelphia or Pittsburgh. I'd never pay or wait in a line.
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If he does I will be first to admit that I should not be a major league scout
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No way- especially if he gets 120-150 RBI again. Baseball people worship Tejada, and his contract looks like a bargain now. That should absolutely not be a deal-breaker, and if Lidge is really an arm problem waiting to happen like some think, then 'twould have been a pretty sweet deal for Houston.
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I can't see them exercising that option on a guy his age with knee problems, even if he makes it through this year with no DL time. Maybe I'm wrong.
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yea but i remember seeing morgan making some kick ass throws from first to third.. at this level there shoulld not have to be a cut off man
it is wonderful he is making a recovery and everthing should be dont possible that can be done but I think on anyother team he might already be gone
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My first thoughts when I read the story were that he did it to support a drug habit or remedy financial problems. That seems to not be the case and makes this totally bizzare. I am curious if his status as a former big leaguer will help him or hurt him when the case goes to trial.
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From this article in today's Chronicle:
"Astros general manager Tim Purpura signed backup catcher Raul Chavez to a one-year contract Tuesday. He also tendered contracts to his four remaining arbitration-eligible players: All-Stars Brad Lidge and Morgan Ensberg and shortstop Adam Everett and reliever Dan Wheeler."
What's the ML minimum? About $280,000? I assume that Chamo's contract is guaranteed?
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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.
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It's just a little strange that a 37 year old catcher is getting a pay raise.
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2 years 7.5 million per ESPN.com
So we will have a 38 year old catcher bringing in nearly 4 million dollars in 2007. Good idea.
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ho hum! Unless they can get him for under a million.
Might as well save the money and go with Luke Scott.
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FRAA-ck that self-absorbed asshole. What kind of fantasy world does this clown live in and what sort of people give him any credibility at all?
Barzilla is an intelligent, knowledgeable, articulate writer. Sure, he's wrong sometimes, and his audience isn't the most sophisticated. But that hardly makes him a self-absorbed asshole.
Wow. You really don't know much. He claimed to have approached Tal Smith with some of his ideas once and was told something like "you're ideas have some flaws." Which is polite executive speak for "you're a fucking idiot and don't come back" but it appeared Barzilla didn't get it. He wants everyone to think he's a genious but doesn't appear to have any background to back it up, other than a top 3% IQ, or so he claims. He is a self-absorbed asshole who doesn't get it right, ever. Do a site search for some of the threads he's posted to and you'll see why he's justifibly vilified here.
Unlike a handful of folks on this site, I believe that frequent, extreme rhetoric dulls your ability to make a point. Besides that, it gets predictable, especially when it's just posted for the sake of those who already agree with you.
I don't need to do a Google search. I am aware of the facts you mention. But I think your venom towards him is extreme and predictable.
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It's been discussed at length elsewhere on this forum- Burke doesn't have the skills, esp. the arm, to play major-league SS. To me, Everett's trade value vs. Replacement/ upgrade cost is not good. You ride him out, and hope he can hit .260 and take some more walks. He's already got plenty of power and speed for the glove.
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It's too bad Burke can't manage shortstop for a couple of years. Trading Everett for one of Atlanta's SS prospects could work for both teams, if the Astros could also get some offense in left and park Burke at SS until Biggio is gone.
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As did Carpenter.
Yeah right. In 21 innings spread over 3 starts in the post season, he was 2-0 with a 2.14 ERA.
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Did any of you actually play the game?
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I have played enough competitive baseball to know that, yes pitchers think about pitch location in the hope that the batter will hit in a general direction, usually on the corners. But in real life, it works so rarely that it is irrelevant in a discussion like this. Sorry to break it to you, but it's more a myth than anything else. (I mean, let's throw the ball over the middle of the plate so they will hit it to Willy in CF???)
The "competitive" baseball you played was obviously somewhere below Pony League. "more a myth than anything else" shows that you are the worst kind of idiot. You want people on this board to believe that you have a grasp on the game of baseball? You are way out of your league on this one. Your posts have shown that Jim's morning dump knows more about baseball than you think you do. Read more, post less. If not, then fuck off.
One wonders what meaning the phrase "go with the pitch" would have if this were true. Also, slider, low and away, why?
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I have played enough competitive baseball to know that, yes pitchers think about pitch location in the hope that the batter will hit in a general direction, usually on the corners. But in real life, it works so rarely that it is irrelevant in a discussion like this. Sorry to break it to you, but it's more a myth than anything else. (I mean, let's throw the ball over the middle of the plate so they will hit it to Willy in CF???)
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I guess I don't understand that because I feel Furcal has better range, arm strength and greater ability for outs that AE cannot get (deep in the hole, off balance, etc). I have seen that little man rob way more hits than AE. Granted, the play on Cathead up the middle in the NLCS by AE was great, as well as the game ending DP, but I think Furcal makes those plays also.
Furcal has a stronger arm. They are about equal in terms of range. I dont' think there's any ball that Furcal can get to that Everett cannot. Everett has a better glove. Everett is quicker turning the DP. Everett's arm is more accurate.
I can see the glove part, but I thing Furcal is quicker to the ball...I would not have the first idea who is quicker turning the DP, only that arm strength has a LOT to do with turning one (so I would have to seriously question how AE would be quicker than Furcal...given his footwork does not strike me as better than Furcal's)
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His fastball seems fairly hittable despite the velocity
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If this has any truth to it, Tampa could have been the only team that offered him a job.
Ortiz rips him pretty hard. Interesting insight about the Tony Pena situation
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fuck off, Dobro. you are clueless. nice to be able to identify the frontrunners clearly. they use and embrace the epithet "ladies" to describe the Astros.
i thought that garner should have pinch hit for ensberg the last two games of the series, too. i guess you can put me on your stupid list of "frontrunners", too. what a worthless discussion...
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What's the point? Why not just register? I gues I am stupid, dot come. I usually use all fake gibberish info, including email address. It takes about 20 seconds.
The point is that it takes 2 seconds. If you would rather fill out a bunch of crap with fake names and fake email addreses, etc.. so be it, that is just a complete waste of time... to each his own though
This is a great reason to use Firefox and Bugmenot.
Bugmenot I knew about. Not sure how Firefox would have helped. It wouldn't have killed y'all to just say "couple guys painted up in `Killer Bee` outfits." Geesh. I don't register at sites I don't regularly read because I'd rather not deal with the inevitable spam which follows.
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Then again, who knew that Ausmus was 3rd on the team in BB? Good for a .351 OBP
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My experience is exactly the opposite. I go to a lot of baseball games for personal and business reasons, and I think most Houston baseball games are about the same crowd. Some business folk, some families, some social groups, and some more-or-less passers by. There are a few baseball-heads, but not too many. Business folk are a big part of every Astros crowd, and for the most part they go to the games year in and year out because they like baseball and know something about it. They also like the Astros. At playoff games, though, you get the addition of revved-up male bonding groups, the average age of which is about 25, which stand and scream from start to finish. I'm not sure I see much in it that has to do with the game. It's generally annoying, doesn't help the team, and has more to do with the exhibition put on by the guy standing and screaming than anything that's going to happen on the field.
There are times when I think energy helps, but those bits and pieces of the game happen pretty naturally. If everybody behind you and in front of you is sitting, it's probably time to sit. And anybody who wasn't sitting around looking drained at least part of the time last night wasn't there. It was pretty exhausting, emotionally and physically.
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I would think part of his expletive was directed at Roy, and part of it was at the pain and the unexpectedness of the HBP in that situation.
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Oh man. We drove past $30 parking for the NLDS (across the street from the stadium) and paid $7 to park at the Brown CC, literally 20 feet further down the street. Just makes me laugh.
That's like .78 beers.
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Except the drive from Pearland, of course.
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That's horseshit...Sox fans leave the opposing fans be as long as they don't act like assholes themselves...
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That's horseshit, I've been going to about 20 games a year since the 90s, a majority of Sox fans leave the opposing fans be as long as they don't act like assholes themselves. "Hurt or killed" is absurd, it's not like Wrigley where they throw things and have the usher throw you out just if you are wearing opposing team's colors. Every one in a while there is the occasional drunk douche but there is no risk of harm of opposing team's fans coming to the Cell, in fact, there's a lot that make the trip throughout the year. In the last series, there were these obnoxious pricks from Cleveland that were screaming throughout the whole game, but quieted down after the Sox won, people let them be.
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Choking, to me, is not doing your job in a clutch situation. With that definition, in my eyes, choking happens all the time. That definition also depends alot on expectations. If you expect a player to get a clutch hit and he doesn't it hurts more than say, a player with lower expectations not getting a clutch hit.
By that definition someone "chokes" in every situtaion of every game.
That's bullshit.
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No player in the major leagues chokes. Have you ever choked Greg? Did you choke in little league? Or did you choke at Dungeons and Dragons? Not level up your elven archer quick enough?
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I paid a pretty penny to an online ticket service for two primo dugout seats for game 3 in Houston (Game 5 of series). If (GOD FORBID and don't strike me dead for saying it) the Astros get swept by the White Sox, can I put a stop payment on my credit card for those tickets? Any legal beagles here?
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Don't you think Jenks would have come in to face Burke? Once he did do you think Burke would have had a chance?
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But what do I know?
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They did have some breaks but when you play well you get the breaks.
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Bidge makes this offense go. Sit Everett.
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Hey Racer X, what is up with the relentless bullshit courtesy you and the other BFiB spew around here? You and your fellow Jake fans have no effect on the outcome of the game, so why tip your hat to Burke and hope "we" can get him out eventually. If I was you, I'd be pissed that the team I follow allowed a .250 hitting rookie to hit for the cycle over two games. I don't "tip my hat" to home-run-or-nothing colonel sanders because pettitte fucked up and served one over the plate; it pissed me off, and the curtain call pissed me off even more. The sight of seeing him make the ballerina lunge for that fly ball, then ass plant into the ground, writhing in pain was the only thing that made me happy. Seeing LaGenius run in with his glove made me laugh.
Coming around here with your forced civility is not something that i appreciate. it is a large part of the reason that we sarcastically refer to you and your kind as "the best fans in baseball (BFiB)". we don't like your team. we think your manager is a joke, and we think your best player is a steroid freak who lies about his age.
we don't want a civilized series where we show mutual respect. we want the team we support to kick your team's ass.
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So, what about the next time Ensberg goes pumping his fists around first?
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That guy did get his arse kicked out of the stadium, to a thunderous applause to boot. The look on his face when he was told that he had to leave was priceless. I was 300 feet away, but I could still see it, "but it was a foul ball!"
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...He suddenly saw his average ?skyrocket? to .260 and his on base percentage reach new Houston highs at close to .340...
