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The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game Six - Astros v Dodgers. Oct. 31, 2017
« on: October 31, 2017, 08:43:25 pm »
Make 'em pay Breg
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The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 2: Yankees @ Astros Oct 14, 2017
« on: October 14, 2017, 05:25:59 pm »McCann has been struggling for the last few games.
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Going back to 2012, he is 2 for 38 in postseason
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The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 1 - Yankmees vs. Astros
« on: October 13, 2017, 10:29:09 pm »
Break one off Kenny
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The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 1 - Yankmees vs. Astros
« on: October 13, 2017, 10:27:48 pm »
Damnit. Close it out now
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The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 1 - Yankmees vs. Astros
« on: October 13, 2017, 10:26:08 pm »
Nasty slider
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Beer and Queso / Re: US vs Costa Rica qualifier
« on: October 10, 2017, 09:02:19 pm »
Embarrassing given our resources and talent pool. Fucking clean house.
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The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALDS Game 4: Astros vs. Red Sox
« on: October 09, 2017, 02:25:07 pm »
Playoffs = over-managing
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Talk Zone / Re: Which 25?
« on: October 05, 2017, 09:16:47 am »I get the reasoning, but I don't agree with it. Similar to my feelings on Fisher over Kemp. But not my decision to make.+1
Really hope that McCullers can keep his head on straight when/if he gets used.
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Talk Zone / Re: Astros Rotation down the stretch
« on: September 18, 2017, 08:36:29 am »I want to see a Verlander-Keuchel-McCullars-??? in the ALDS (in that order). Though not as dramatic a contrast, it would be somewhat reminiscent of JR Richard-Joe Niekro-Nolan Ryan rotation of the early 80's. Pure heat-offspeed-pure heat. Tough adjustment for hitters from one game to the next.
You're not paying attention if McCullers is in your version rotation, much less in the first 3.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains and Muscle Strains (2017 Version)
« on: August 09, 2017, 04:37:15 pm »Springer activated, Tyler White sent down.
White did well for himself this go around.
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Talk Zone / Re: Rainbow gut creation story
« on: August 03, 2017, 09:01:56 pm »Good post. I was struck by this..."Spec Richardson managed to destroy it" referring to the original version of the new uniform. Those of us old-timers understand how he could destroy things.
But thank goodness he vetoed the white cap.
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Talk Zone / Re: Trade Deadline 2017
« on: July 24, 2017, 09:01:02 pm »They need more than an innings eater when October rolls around. You have Keuchel, who has missed two months with a neck issue and couldn't finish last season, McCullers has yet to throw 200 innings and is currently in a funk, and a bunch of 3rd-5th starters. When it comes time to play Boston with Sale and Cleveland with Kluber and Carrasco, you can't rely on your offense to save the day. They need a Sonny Gray or Verlander type.
As for the pen, provided Harris isn't seriously injured, they really only need a good left handed reliever like Wilson, Hand or Britton to get tough lefties out, and in Britton's case, give them a dominant closer.
The innings eater isn't about playoff starts. It's about providing rest to the pen and other starters. Getting to the playoffs healthy is the goal. After that you have to look at your team differently. A 4/5 starter may not matter much and may not even make the playoff roster!
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Talk Zone / Re: Trade Deadline 2017
« on: July 24, 2017, 05:33:51 pm »The starters are causing that.
Of course, but options there are limited and hopeful that can get better with K returning and McHugh still getting up to speed. One option is to get more bully help of course, the other is an innings eater
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Talk Zone / Re: Trade Deadline 2017
« on: July 24, 2017, 02:41:28 pm »With McCullers looking terrible again today, starting pitching is definitely a need.
Bullpen more tho. They're exhausted. Of the teams in contention for the playoffs, they have they are tied with the most number of relievers with 30+ appearances (7). Only CHI, MIN and MIL outpace on total appearances and MIN and MIL on IP.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains and Muscle Strains (2017 Version)
« on: July 22, 2017, 11:33:54 pm »Moran going to DL. Being evaluated for "everything from a concussion to a fracture".
Announcement tomorrow who will be called up from Fresno.
Likely Tyler White wouldn't you think?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2017
« on: July 10, 2017, 07:37:41 am »
Ramon Laureano with a rare 5 hit night. Though struggling in the first half of the season, his now hitting .500 in July over 8 games. Without the 5 hit night he was still hitting .400+ for the month. Hopefully he's returning to form. 2016 was a promising effort.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno Grizzlies 2017
« on: June 27, 2017, 06:52:20 am »
3 for 5 with another dinger last night. He's a good asset at this point, whether used for trade . It's easy to forget, he's only a 1 1/2 yrs older than Bregman.
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The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: Astros @ Royals June 7, 2017
« on: June 07, 2017, 07:06:00 pm »That's a pretty powerful matchup.
No anymore. Keuchel scratched and headed to clubhouse.
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Talk Zone / Re: Rangers
« on: May 15, 2017, 04:37:02 pm »I love the fact that the Astros are up by 7.5 games. But I liked it a lot better when the Rangers were at the bottom of the division instead of in second. I see their name right below the Astros and I just start getting nervous. And now they face the Phillies -- so I would expect the Rangers' winning ways to continue.Meh. Their win streak coincides with 7 straight games against the worst team in baseball and the worst team in the American League. Against .500+ teams, Texas is 2-8. Houston is 4-3. Houston's mettle will be tested during this second half of May. They've had a great start against the Yanks but still have Cleveland, Detroit, Baltimore and Minnesota left this month. 13 straight against teams .500+
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The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: Astros @ Rays April 21, 2017
« on: April 21, 2017, 06:34:25 pm »Well, that didn't take long. Fiers gives up a leadoff home run...1-0 Rays
The only question on that one was if it stayed fair.
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Talk Zone / Re: Race for the Lid!!!
« on: April 04, 2017, 05:57:53 am »I read the rules, and became confused about when Tuesday, April 5th and Tuesday, April 6th are going to occur. I think its 2023 and 2024.Of if it has already been decided to accept picks after the first pitch on the 5th but not beyond the first pitch on the 6th, notwithstanding that they are both Tuesdays.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains and Muscle Strains (2017 Version)
« on: March 27, 2017, 12:46:20 pm »Further clarification - because he ended 2016 on the major league roster, Paulino will go to the major league DL. No real difference, except to his pocketbook.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
...and service time.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: March 09, 2017, 05:36:22 pm »Texans beat Browns.
As much as one blames Rick for the signing, one must also acknowledge he's managed a reasonable out. For all their faults they realize that they cannot waste this defense nor the talent around the QB and did something about it. Which domino falls next? Romo? Probably the likely outcome but not without its own risks too.
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Beer and Queso / SB LI
« on: February 01, 2017, 07:12:17 pm »
Had a meeting for tomorrow in Houston so booked my normal hotel, maybe just 2 weeks ago. Turns out when I arrive it's the Pats hotel for the week.
Gotta say, can't believe how big these guys are in street clothes. Chris Long is massive but certainly not the biggest guy to walk by (I couldn't identify that guy). Bennett is smaller than I though but still pretty good size.
Anyone else checking out the festivities?
Gotta say, can't believe how big these guys are in street clothes. Chris Long is massive but certainly not the biggest guy to walk by (I couldn't identify that guy). Bennett is smaller than I though but still pretty good size.
Anyone else checking out the festivities?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: January 17, 2017, 02:25:59 pm »
Lance Zierlein was pimping Nathan Peterman from Pitt on twitter after the game. Drawing comps to Cousins and D. Carr. Apparently accurate as hell, goes through progressions reasonably quickly and stands in the pocket well. Never seen him play personally. LZ seems to think he can be grabbed late 2nd round.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: December 20, 2016, 10:04:06 pm »
JD is the only Texans rep in the initial pro bowl selections. Of course there will be plenty of turnover in that process. While the biggest snub of the bunch seems to be Texas native Matthew Stanford, if I had to point to a Texan I thought might be deserving it would have been Mercilus.
At the end of the day the pro bowl is likely the worst all star game of the bunch, so who cares.
At the end of the day the pro bowl is likely the worst all star game of the bunch, so who cares.
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Talk Zone / Re: Free Agents 2016
« on: December 05, 2016, 02:44:36 pm »Astros grab Tolliver off waivers
Takes the last spot on the 40-man from what I can tell.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: October 30, 2016, 07:35:37 pm »
Reasonable win today. Thought BOB was going to strike out a few times. Caldwell couldn't have made a dumber decision to onside kick in the last few minutes.
Sure hope we can get some receivers healthy.
Sure hope we can get some receivers healthy.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: October 09, 2016, 02:03:24 pm »
Who the fuck was that ball being thrown to for goodness sake? And Fuller, catch the damn ball.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: October 09, 2016, 01:02:41 pm »
Add special teams to the list.
Oh goody, We now get to watch Osweiler's miss a few more throws.
Oh goody, We now get to watch Osweiler's miss a few more throws.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: October 09, 2016, 01:00:24 pm »
JoJo looked lost before being taken in for a concussion, Osweiler's accuracy is piss poor, and Novak's kick wasn't even close.
Other than that, the game is going pretty well.
Other than that, the game is going pretty well.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: September 22, 2016, 09:18:41 pm »
And now the defense is getting exhausted. Geez.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans
« on: September 22, 2016, 09:07:36 pm »
Extremely poor situational football. They also aren't executing. Good lord I hope things will change this quarter.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi Hooks 2016
« on: August 18, 2016, 06:28:57 pm »
How would you describe Stubbs receiving and how he works with pitchers?
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Game Zone 2016 Archive / Re: Astros @ Blue Jays August 12, 2016
« on: August 12, 2016, 07:29:32 pm »Fucking smoked it off the wall in left center.
Hittin' the walls, workin' the middle.
After his double in the 5th inning, Bregman hitting .314/.400/.457 over his last 9 games after starting career 1 for 32 or .031/.088/.031
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Talk Zone / Re: Roster moves
« on: August 04, 2016, 01:16:23 pm »The ESPN crawl said he was out for"a couple of weeks."
That's some ESPN sleuthing for you...the DL requirement is a couple of weeks.
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Talk Zone / Re: Roster moves
« on: August 03, 2016, 03:38:22 pm »McTaggert said there won't be any word until the Clubhouse opens. Not sure when that is.
15-day DL per Chron.com
Peacock recalled.
http://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-place-Lance-McCullers-on-disabled-list-9104115.php
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Talk Zone / Re: Trade Deadline Rumors
« on: July 31, 2016, 04:46:44 am »
Lucroy to Indians deal agreed pending his no-trade waiver. 4 for 1 deal with 20y.o. A+ catcher Mejia as the centerpiece, though Justus Sheffield may also be in the deal. Other projected pieces are all lower minor high risk players as well. Only Sheffield is in the MLB Top 100.
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Talk Zone / Re: Trade Deadline Rumors
« on: July 24, 2016, 08:47:51 am »Does this display of attitude and anger hurt his stock any?
It certainly isn't going to help,
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno Grizzlies/Tacos 2016
« on: July 23, 2016, 08:36:31 am »Mike hauschild has taken up the challenge. 5 Ks through 2 IP so far....and from my alma mater. Been keeping an eye on the kid as such. Great year last year and continuing to step up.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Big 12 Expansion
« on: July 21, 2016, 12:18:52 pm »
I can't imagine them not adding UH. Occasional (and currently) strong football program...baseball and basketball programs are nothing to sneeze at. Likewise, 4-5 games in Houston from Big 12 competition like UT, OU, TTU, BU, TCU, OSU, etc. It's a no-brainier. Sure, not media bump necessarily but I have to think Houston is less of a Big 12 town than an SEC town at this point.
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Talk Zone / Re: Yoan Moncada and other Cuban prospects currently unsigned
« on: July 15, 2016, 03:52:22 pm »
Wonder if there's a deal already in the works to clear space. Surely he'll play in the minors for part of July?
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Beer and Queso / Thin Blue Line
« on: July 08, 2016, 10:21:37 pm »
Thank you to all the blue who stand between my family and the evil elements of the world every day. Chicago is evidence of what things can look like when that line starts to fade.; I cannot imagine raising children in such an environment. I pray for those who gave their lives, have served in the past, those serving today and those who will protect us in the future. Thank you.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Copa America
« on: June 21, 2016, 10:25:53 pm »
Messi's free kick was sick. Unstoppable. The ref was terrible, for both teams, which is disgusting in a cup semi. Between the Mexico and U.S. Result, it shows were improving but a very long way to go. The top 10 teams are much, much better than the next 10.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi Hooks 2016
« on: June 19, 2016, 10:16:24 pm »
What's the story & scouting report on Keegan Yuhl? Numbers look pretty damn good but i don't know about the kid.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Copa America
« on: June 18, 2016, 08:14:57 am »
Bobby Wood is going to be good for a very long time for this team. He's going to be missed at the SF. Beckerman can reasonable step in for Jones and Zusi for Bedoya. the way this team is playing I actually feel like they have a chance against Agentina. They'll have to play their best, but they have a chance. Not that long ago I wouldn't have thought they would have ANY chance.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Copa America
« on: June 12, 2016, 04:29:58 pm »
Ticos looked pretty good last night to our benefit. Will be interesting to see what happens tonight.
Did anyone see Messi's magical 30 minutes? The set piece was phenomenal.
Did anyone see Messi's magical 30 minutes? The set piece was phenomenal.
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Beer and Queso / Copa America
« on: June 07, 2016, 09:12:34 pm »
Happy to see the USMNT performance tonight as a rebound to a difficult Colombia match, but the first 7 minutes were white knuckled. Hope they put away Paraguay and take a bit of confidence into the QF....they'll need it.
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Game Zone 2016 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers June 6, 2016
« on: June 06, 2016, 08:01:11 pm »Gomez is a shitty baseball player
Statistically (and visually) worse than 2015 Jon Singleton. Let that sink in for a bit.
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Beer and Queso / Re: RIP Ali
« on: June 04, 2016, 02:11:37 pm »
I've enjoyed re-watching his fights this morning and afternoon. The guy could grind but he could also just wait...and then "sting". What a fighter.
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Game Zone 2016 Archive / Re: Astros @ Snakes May 31, 2016
« on: May 31, 2016, 06:35:43 pm »
17-12 in the month of May. That's a 94 win-pace. Not bad, but given the overall record of 24-29 it puts into perspective just how bad April was for the good guys. Hopefully they can dig out of that hole by the end of June. Another 17-12 would get them to .500 on the year.
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Game Zone 2016 Archive / Re: Astros @ Red Sox, Saturday matinee 5/14
« on: May 14, 2016, 12:43:16 pm »Bases loaded for the Sox, two runs in, still one out, 30 pitches thrown - off to another grrrrrreat! start!
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Marisnick dickstomping didnt fucking help. No error, but an error.
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Talk Zone / Re: McCullers
« on: May 12, 2016, 11:23:34 am »IF it is anyone but Fields then they are fucking crazy.Fields has one more option year, right?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Offseason
« on: April 28, 2016, 11:15:21 pm »
Happy to see Will Fuller picked. His speed is game changing and the secondary has to plan for it. Combo of Nuke, Fuller and Strong will be formidable. He also adds an element in returns. They need to pick up a DE, C and OT now.
Too bad about Tunsil. As if the bong tweet wasn't enough the guy stepped on his dick in the post-pick press conference.
Too bad about Tunsil. As if the bong tweet wasn't enough the guy stepped on his dick in the post-pick press conference.
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Talk Zone / Re: Those of you in Houston
« on: April 20, 2016, 10:45:27 am »Cypress Creek is still rising. Many folks went to bed last night dry, and woke up to two feet of water in their house. It's pouring rain here right now. They're saying the creek still may not crest for a few more days, which means thousands more flooded. Everyone please stay safe.
Not good. My old house was in Blackhorse Ranch - Cy Creek runs right through it. I suspose they have some flooding problems? Saw a video from Jones road and Cypresswood - looked nasty.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Masters
« on: April 11, 2016, 12:47:08 pm »And I'm not a rules expert, but he didn't have to hit his third shot from the same place. He could have gone up a whole lot closer to the hole and not gone in the water again. It literally cost him the Masters, and then had to turn around and put the jacket on Willett. It was painful to watch
A good account of what happened and why he chose the yardage he did to hit those shots. I feel terrible for the kid and hope he'll recover well.
http://espn.go.com/golf/masters16/story/_/id/15176840/masters-2016-bearing-witness-disaster-12
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Game Zone 2016 Archive / Re: Opening Day
« on: April 05, 2016, 02:06:28 pm »
Gomez taps back to the mound to end the inning
Haven't seen Gomez's swing yet this year - how's his approach looking this year?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: And the Cuts Begin
« on: April 02, 2016, 07:42:27 am »
When are minor league rosters announced?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Trump
« on: April 01, 2016, 02:15:32 pm »
Interesting article on FiveThirtyEight (http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/its-probably-first-ballot-or-bust-for-donald-trump-at-the-gop-convention/).
If the first ballot fails to result in a nominee, I've got to think that the combination of the lack of Trump's political ground game combined with the history of Rule 40 will lead to a Cruz nomination. With the delegates being largely elected by the individual state establishments, you'll have a combination of Cruz / Bush / Rubio and some Kasich supporters. Cruz has a deep ground game and given his elect-ability would likely be begrudgingly supported by the delegates who would otherwise support the remaining guys. Trump, while receiving a large amount of votes, doesn't have a voter profile of folks who go to precinct and state conventions to become delegates...his support will dwindle through subsequent votes.
Then there is Rule 40, which as RCP has pointed out in the past isn't quite as big of a deal as it's being made out to be. The number of states required (currently set at
in which a person on the national ballot must have won a majority of the delegates can simply be changed to manage the size of the ballot. The trick is do you make it / leave it at 8 thereby eliminating Kasich and Rubio, or do you lower it to 2 in order to create more options, or do you eliminated it. If it's left at 8, Cruz will be the likely nominee as he will probably get there and it will only be him and Trump. Given the dwindling support for Trump likely by delegates...that leads to Cruz.
It will be a crazy convention - the fall-out, whether Trump succeeds or doesn't, will be massive.
If the first ballot fails to result in a nominee, I've got to think that the combination of the lack of Trump's political ground game combined with the history of Rule 40 will lead to a Cruz nomination. With the delegates being largely elected by the individual state establishments, you'll have a combination of Cruz / Bush / Rubio and some Kasich supporters. Cruz has a deep ground game and given his elect-ability would likely be begrudgingly supported by the delegates who would otherwise support the remaining guys. Trump, while receiving a large amount of votes, doesn't have a voter profile of folks who go to precinct and state conventions to become delegates...his support will dwindle through subsequent votes.
Then there is Rule 40, which as RCP has pointed out in the past isn't quite as big of a deal as it's being made out to be. The number of states required (currently set at
in which a person on the national ballot must have won a majority of the delegates can simply be changed to manage the size of the ballot. The trick is do you make it / leave it at 8 thereby eliminating Kasich and Rubio, or do you lower it to 2 in order to create more options, or do you eliminated it. If it's left at 8, Cruz will be the likely nominee as he will probably get there and it will only be him and Trump. Given the dwindling support for Trump likely by delegates...that leads to Cruz.It will be a crazy convention - the fall-out, whether Trump succeeds or doesn't, will be massive.
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Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News
« on: April 01, 2016, 01:57:10 pm »
If you bought a Dan Straily Padres jersey, you pulled the trigger too soon. He's on his way to the land of Skyline Chili having likely never put on the Friar's cap.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock in 2019
« on: March 31, 2016, 07:10:21 pm »Just a further FYI to PCL/Texas League fans:
Movement continues towards that new ballpark, with the AAA team in Colorado Springs potentially moving to SA. The replacement team for the Missions in the Texas League may be Amarillo which is building a new downtown stadium.
SA Express-News article
Colorado Springs Gazette article
It's been 11 years since I lived in Amarillo and was a season ticket holder to the Dillas. Maybe things have changed, but I cannot imagine Amarillo supporting a AA team.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Offseason
« on: March 09, 2016, 05:50:05 pm »I'm not a fan of the Osweiler signing, but I'll give them credit: they clearly had a plan and are executing it.
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FWIW, I think the last few years has taught them what many good teams already know, if there's a very good QB avail and you think you already have the answer...take him. To that end, if there's a good young QB in the 1st or 2nd I think they'll draft him. It does take a bit of pressure off though.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Trump
« on: March 08, 2016, 11:40:49 am »Spoken like a true Trump man.
You do realize that I previously said I am not for Trump and am seriously considering Hillary over Trump? I believe that Trump could be a very dangerous person as a leader of a country...I just need to decide if that is true or not.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Trump
« on: March 07, 2016, 08:03:09 pm »You seem to have access to a lot of evidence that nobody else does.
Of course you know I don't have access to a lot of evidence - however there is a TON of smoke here, so I still feel comfortable in the assertion. This is partially driven by the fact that "career attorney"s are involved now leading one to think that they are moving towards a grand jury (furthered potentially by the developments this weekend). That said, I recognize I have no access to actual evidence.
The U.S. Code provisions you cited all require a certain level of intent or willfulness in addition to actual or attempted transmittal.
She set up a private, unprotected server in her house for use in her government job as the Secretary of State - widely considered the #2 most powerful job in an administration. Any such action in the corporate world would be unheard of and not tollerated either. It doesn't take a 30-year detective to figure out that she willfulflly used condifential information in a way that put US interests and safety at risk.
So, are you going to lock up Collin Powell, he apparently used a personal server also.
Although my read of the actual details of what happened with Powell are different than the headlines you speak of, if he did set up a server with the express purpose of receiving emails as the SoS and then received confidential information...then yes. He should be investigated and prosecuted.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Trump
« on: March 07, 2016, 02:46:06 pm »
I don't quite understand the hatred aspect either, but it's fed and driven by talking head all day long both on TV and Radio. Good discourse is missing in this country, and maybe other countries as well. We have a way to settle good discourse - votes. Why do dems hate George Bush, why do reps hate Obama and Hillary? Who the hell knows. The sad thing is that people who look at these things objectively, or even with just a slight bit of bias, are often thrown into the "Hate" grouping for voicing displeasure or disagreement about someone. This does, of course, extend well beyond politics too
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Beer and Queso / Re: Trump
« on: March 07, 2016, 02:17:27 pm »Disclosed to whom?
As you know that's just the title of the section of the US code and thus shortened, often not taking into consideration the fullness of the what is covered. It pretty clear when you read the code itself. But specifically, its the making available to an unauthorized person or "use in any manner prejudicial to the safety or interest of the United States"
What say you about Section 793 or the NARA?
Let's be clear, I'm not on a witch hunt for Hillary. Sure, I think here policies are in the wrong but that didn't make her a criminal. Her own actions did. The same can be said about a number of other politicians / celebrities (yes, I lump them together sometimes - I don't think most people can tell the difference unfortunately). I would say the same about others who's politics I do favor. If they've committed a crime, they should be held to it. Patreus, Libby - don't care...they committed a crime and should be punished for it.
It seems to me, that by all non-partisan standards, HIllary is in deep doo-doo and likely committed a serious federal crime. Electing a President carries a higher standard than that - they must be above suspicion. The fact that the conversation is even happening, let alone that it has legs, should cause serious doubt in people's mind about her ability to be our President.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Trump
« on: March 07, 2016, 01:17:17 pm »Specifically, what crimes do you think she's committed?
Illegal disclosure of classified information under section 798 of US code....and 793 section f...and section 1236.22 of NARA.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Trump
« on: March 07, 2016, 12:38:00 pm »
This is all just too fucked up. I'm a Rubio guy - I think he can actually get things done and more likely to heal the divide than continue to break it. He would also beat any of the dems. That said, I see his chances at less than 10% now, raising only to about 20% if he wins FLA. However, if there's a brokered convention, I could see him being a big winner. The lack of Trump's groundgame will hurt him in a brokered convention...many of the delegates there will not be in his favor and once released will turn on him.
However, if it's Trump or Hillary my decision rests on whether Trumps narcissism is dangerous or benign. World History's villains are made up of guys who started as populists making rash statements, backing down to get elected, and then showing true colors. I just have to decide if that's the case with him. Hillary is a criminal IMHO - one that should be in jail. But if I decide Trump could lead our country into something fearful, I would vote for a criminal first.
Thankfully there is still time...
However, if it's Trump or Hillary my decision rests on whether Trumps narcissism is dangerous or benign. World History's villains are made up of guys who started as populists making rash statements, backing down to get elected, and then showing true colors. I just have to decide if that's the case with him. Hillary is a criminal IMHO - one that should be in jail. But if I decide Trump could lead our country into something fearful, I would vote for a criminal first.
Thankfully there is still time...
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Offseason
« on: March 06, 2016, 01:16:02 pm »Denver gets stomped by NE in the playoffs. Denver decides to part ways with Manning to free up cap space and go with Osweiler. Manning decides he wants one more shot and signs with the Texans.
Well, that seems to be unlikely now.
http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/14913587/peyton-manning-announce-retirement-monday
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Talk Zone / Re: 2016 Crystal Ball Tracker
« on: February 16, 2016, 10:41:03 am »1985 you had3: Pirates (104), Indians (102), and Giants (100)
2002 you had 4: Rays (106), Brewers (106), Royals (100) and Tigers (106)
Thanks - chalk it up to old age and lack of desire to research it.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2016 Crystal Ball Tracker
« on: February 16, 2016, 07:52:03 am »
The "human element" they boast about in the intro seems to have gone a bit haywire. I cannot remember nor believe that any season has had 3 100-loss teams.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 10 Prospects
« on: January 27, 2016, 07:58:37 pm »Crawfish Boxes nicely contextualizes that ranking:
http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2016/1/27/10837746/astros-moran-just-misses-mlb-top-10-3b-list
Interesting read. Good context really
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 10 Prospects
« on: January 26, 2016, 05:14:43 pm »
So thus far we have a #1, #8, #11 and #11 out of 6 evals - not bad given the bleed of prospects in trades last year and over the winter.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top 10 Prospects
« on: January 25, 2016, 09:22:56 pm »And Tony Kemp is #8 on the 2B list.
Martes was effectively #11 for RHP.
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Talk Zone / Re: Salary News
« on: January 21, 2016, 07:40:33 pm »Not really. The club has people on the payroll who do this as a matter of their employment, and the player pays his agent based on his earnings. The hearing takes a couple of hours. Other than some minor expenses, the process doesn't really cost either side much.
If the employees were not working on this they would be working on something else. There is a real cost.
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Talk Zone / Re: Salary News
« on: January 21, 2016, 05:53:54 pm »stupid on both sides.
They'll probably spend more money on both sides in either internal resource or advisors between the two parties than the $250k gap. Too bad.
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Talk Zone / Re: The National League is getting closer to adding DHs, maybe in 2017
« on: January 21, 2016, 05:51:09 pm »http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/the-national-league-is-getting-closer-to-adding-dhs--maybe-in-2017-194448854.ht
purity of the game no more sigh
From a negotiation point of view, MLB just needs to extract something for it from the MLBPA. They know that of course...wonder if it will be a world-wide draft?
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Beer and Queso / Re: iPhone 6
« on: January 21, 2016, 05:03:37 pm »
FWIW, my rate actually went down when I made the switch...even with the monthly charge for the phone.
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Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: January 19, 2016, 10:47:03 am »Opt-out after second year. Only costs the Tigers a third-round pick due to protected first-round pick and giving up second-rounder for Jordan Zimmerman. As usual, Tigers lineup is going to be fierce.
This is indeed the way to do it - if you finish in bottom half and spend...spend to get two of QO guys. It's a tough draft year but at least you're only giving up a 2nd and 3rd and still have the 1st.
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Beer and Queso / Re: MLK
« on: January 19, 2016, 10:45:33 am »
If you ever get a chance to visit his monument in DC - it's worth the time. A true honor to be the only non-president to have such a monument erected there.
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Beer and Queso / Texans Offseason
« on: January 18, 2016, 08:51:37 am »
Sounds like the salary cap will be $150 MM...but the Texans will have $153 MM with carry over. If you include the "expert" probable moves of releasing Foster and Graham, the Texans will have cap spending of ~$116 MM and thus have ~$37 MM to be able to spend. That's a lot of dough. Priorities in my mind are:
1. QB
.
.
.
.
.
2. TE
3. RB
4. KR
1. QB
.
.
.
.
.
2. TE
3. RB
4. KR
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: January 14, 2016, 02:39:57 pm »
...and reporting that they intend to fix the QB situation - also right direction. Kap will not be part of that though given Chip Kelly's statement today.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: January 12, 2016, 08:42:42 am »I'm not sure the Texans use the same criteria for choosing a quarterback that you do.
Clearly not having used Fitz, Hoyer and Mallet as their selections for training camp over the last 2 years.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: January 11, 2016, 10:12:09 pm »If I were a betting man, and I'm not, betting that is, I'd bet they'll have either RGIII or Manziel starting next season.
One of these is not like the other. RGIII is a legit QB, or at least he was...not sure now after the injury. I wonder if he could be more of a pocket guy then in the past...
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: January 10, 2016, 08:10:28 pm »I didn't mind that play so much. It was a goal line formation, you just ran your two biggest defensive linemen out here in an attempt to move the pile three feet. Now if Watt would have tried to throw to Wilfork...that would have been awesome. Positively Kubiakian.
I didn't mind it either. Now the pass thrown on the next down is another thing.
I cannot see how Hoyer starts another game in Houston. He was absolutely awful this season. I think he was responsible for 3 wins...that's it. Other than that it was a combo of Mallett, Yates and Weeden. He was far worse at getting the team moving than the other QBs...including Mallet.
The carousel needs to end. They need to have Kap, RGIII or Brees here next year, along with Savage and a draft pick in camp.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: December 29, 2015, 01:46:05 pm »Well, according to an email from the Texans, my playoff tickets just shipped, which was an event that was supposed to occur after clinching a playoff spot. Might as well up that $50 bet to $100.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I did too. Talked to the account rep - apparently they aren't charging cards until official clinch but have to send out the tickets now due to logistics.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2016 HOF Class
« on: December 29, 2015, 12:01:55 am »
With about 25% (111 votes) in, it appears that 4 players are on track - Griffey, piazza, Bagwell, and Raines. While this is interesting, especially regarding Bagwell b/c of his Asteos career but also the PED talk surround him, the gains made by other notables is almost shocking in its magnitude in current (public) votes from last years actual final tally:
Edgar Martinez - 51% public from 27% actual
Curt Schilling - 62% public from 39% actual
Mike Mussina - 58% public from 25% actual
And most notably from the center of the PED universe:
Barry Bonds - 51% public from 31% actual
DQ - 50% public from 38% actual
Edgar Martinez - 51% public from 27% actual
Curt Schilling - 62% public from 39% actual
Mike Mussina - 58% public from 25% actual
And most notably from the center of the PED universe:
Barry Bonds - 51% public from 31% actual
DQ - 50% public from 38% actual
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Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: December 28, 2015, 11:48:29 pm »Aroldis to the Yankees for prospects (various reports).
Supposedly does NOT include any of their "top tier" guys including Aaron Judge.
Reds should have moved him at the deadline - they had good leverage. Now with domestic violence issue outstanding it created an unknown and they got less. Reds mgt has struggled recently with committing to the rebuild.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: December 28, 2015, 11:45:49 pm »The Texans have clinched at least a tie for "strength of victory". For the Colts to tie in that, a lot has to happen, starting with tonight:
Tonight:
Broncos beat the Bengals
Well, that happened, so the Colts only have 9 more victories to count on to take down the Texans. At least next week "means something" (sort of) since I'm making the trek down from Dallas to see it.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: December 27, 2015, 06:09:24 pm »
According to this...and results from later in the day, a CIN win tomorrow night will result in the division title. If DEN wins, then it goes to next week. I'm not exactly sure how the tiebreakers work there.
http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/UPDATED-Texans-can-lock-up-playoff-bid-if/6017248a-b87e-41e0-bf42-ca0862a23d4c
http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/UPDATED-Texans-can-lock-up-playoff-bid-if/6017248a-b87e-41e0-bf42-ca0862a23d4c
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Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: December 24, 2015, 01:34:48 pm »I don't get the impression Reynolds regularly hits 100. Sounds more like he works in the mid-90's. Plus, Guduan is a lefty.
Talking about high 90's and lack of control plus a converted starter.
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Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: December 24, 2015, 09:08:57 am »The MLBTR write-up is rather informative.
Sounds like one of those guys where the Astros must really like something about him and feel that they can fix something they don't like. Here's hoping he'll be the next McHugh or Harris.
Sounds a bit like Reymin Guduan....
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: December 22, 2015, 10:20:32 pm »I'd love to find a way to get Brees here for a year or 2, while they groom a QB they take in the 1st/2nd round this year or next.
If you take the view that he won't return to NO after they cut him (as happens with so many older FA's) and then go team by team to look at both the QB situation as well as the style of offense played, I think the Texans have a real shot at Brees
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: December 22, 2015, 03:26:17 pm »Seriously, RG3 is on your radar? You know he sucks, right? He's not even the back-up for the Redskins. I'll admit I'm not a fan of the Texans but surely they can find someone better.You do realize that he is where he is in part b/c of the $16 million option which is guaranteed for injury. They don't want him, for reasons clearly related to relationships, and would be forced to pay him if he got injured...at all.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2016 HOF Class
« on: December 22, 2015, 11:13:55 am »Ryan Thibs @NotMrTibbs 4 hours ago
Right now, Jeff Bagwell has 84.5% through 84 ballots. Biggio was at 82.2% through 84 last year.
He's +14 on ballots from last year out of those 84 ballots too, which is a very good sign.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: December 22, 2015, 11:05:05 am »So, it's plausible that they could have a receiver at the helm causing them to miss the playoffs in the weakest division they've ever faced, all while they've squirreled away on IR the only QB they have drafted in recent years. Seems kind of fitting for this organization.
While I agree with you, I think it's highly unlikely (<20% chance) they miss the playoffs. As I've said before, I'm a bit torn on this matter. They have no real chance in the playoffs, period. QB plays a part in that. If they had an aboslutely dominate defense, I might think differently...but they don't. It's a good to better than average defense, but not great and certainly not dominate. Unfortunately, the ramifications of winning this terrible division are compounding. As of now they lose 5 spots in the draft order vs. the Colts....this could be worse if they get lucky and win the first playoff game - something that "could" happen against the Chiefs IMHO. They also finish first in the division, meaning the 2016 schedule includes a trip to Foxboro instead of playing at the Jets. Their 2016 away schedule is absolutely brutal at this point, including trips to Foxboro, Green Bay and Denver.
Now that I'm done moaning about the impacts - there is a possiblity the Texans have a QB with potential next year. Kap, RG III, and Brees are all likely to be FA's next year and not going back to their teams.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: December 22, 2015, 08:19:58 am »So what's the scoop on Hoyer? Will he back next week? If not, the Texans will need to sign their 6th string QB from off the street, and make him the backup next week. Who's available?
Grossman and Tebow are the only ones that come to mind.
Hoyer is still being evaluated. I suspect the fact that they haven't signed anyone yet is a good sign for hoyer?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: December 16, 2015, 05:13:50 pm »Hoyer and Luck both ruled out for Sunday's game.
I know which set of fans will be less upset with this news...
I'm conflicted - I cannot root for a loss and am always happy with a Division Championship and playoff run, but realistically, this team will not get past the Divisional round and it only hurts their chances of drafting a quality QB in the spring. Unless they think they can get Brees this offseason, it's a problem.
Then there is this article on Chron today: http://blog.chron.com/ultimatetexans/2015/12/texans-owner-bob-mcnair-covets-franchise-qb-wants-to-keep-gm-rick-smith/
Quote from: Bob McNair
“I think Bill and Rick get along and the way we’re organized is good. We’ve actually done fairly well. I know there’s been criticism of the draft but look back at it. On offense, nine of our 11 players are guys we drafted and on defense it’s eight.”
Fine, that's the numbers but the question is are these guys "just guys" or do you have a vast majority of "good" players. There are a few "great players" - normal I would say for the NFL on the Texans, there are very few "good" players and a lot of "average" to "below average" players. It's that simple. I don't care how many of the guys were drafted - I care about their quality. Missing on so many 2nd, 3rd and 4th rounders is why the Texans are not a consistent playoff team.
108
Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: December 09, 2015, 08:54:21 pm »
Sidebar, but this takes the 40-man down to 36. Assuming a lefty RP and SP FA signing / allocation, that leaves 2 more spots. Would they take someone in the rule 5? Who do the other spots go to? Do they leave one open in case a youngster makes a push in ST for a starting spot?
109
Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: December 09, 2015, 07:50:42 pm »That's a lot less than they'd have to give up for Miller or Boxberger....and less expensive monetarily.
110
Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: December 09, 2015, 07:46:56 pm »
Would have loved to see VV mature in an Astros unit but excited to see 5 years of Giles. Astros now have one helluva pen and someone to slam the door.
111
Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: December 05, 2015, 01:06:28 pm »Samalphabet signs with the Giants, 5 years/90 mil. And he's not a difference maker in the rotation.
Crazy valuation.
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Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: December 03, 2015, 06:03:59 am »Conger dealt to the Rays for cash.
Well, that acquisition didn't work out. Oh well, much more good than bad thus far. Next.
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Beer and Queso / Re: 2015 College Football
« on: November 24, 2015, 08:47:43 am »Boston College has the "best defense in the nation?"
Look it up, I already did. Granted, I was suprised too.
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Beer and Queso / Re: 2015 College Football
« on: November 23, 2015, 10:13:44 am »I'm not convinced Notre Dame will make it. I can definitely see them losing to Stanford next week.
I'm an ND fan, so clearly hoping that they win. That said, if you told me at the beginning of the year our starting QB, RB (twice), TE, NT (twice) and CB all would go down to injury and we'd still have a shot...I would have been thrilled. It's going to be a tough game no doubt. That said, if they win I do think they are "in".
Lots of naysayers after the struggle against BC. The general population (but I think the committee) recognize that he BC defense is the best in the nation. Likewise, almost every quality team has a game which was closer than they would have liked. Clemson had a close one against Louisville, Alabama nearly lost to Tennessee at home; Iowa barely got past Pitt, Indiana and Minnesota, Mich St with Purdue....the key is the win...period.
115
Talk Zone / Re: an app says
« on: November 20, 2015, 01:30:58 pm »Alfredo Gonzalez, Gustave, Minaya, Musgrove and Paulino added to 40 man
Confirmed:
Houston Astros @astros 52m52 minutes ago
#Astros add 5 players to their 40-man roster: C Alfredo Gonzalez, RHP Jandel Gustave, RHP Juan Minaya, RHP Joe Musgrove, RHP David Paulino.
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Talk Zone / Re: an app says
« on: November 20, 2015, 01:28:19 pm »Alfredo Gonzalez, Gustave, Minaya, Musgrove and Paulino added to 40 man
Weren't Gonzalez and Minaya 6-year minor league FA's?
117
Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: November 19, 2015, 04:17:48 pm »Villar gone. Traded to the brewers for minor league pitcher Cy Sneed
From MLBTR: http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/brewers-acquire-jonathan-villar-astros.html
Quote
The 23-year-old Sneed spent this past season, his age-22 campaign, pitching for the Brewers’ Class-A affiliates in the Midwest and Florida State Leagues. The 2014 third-rounder posted a combined 2.58 ERA with 7.9 K/9 against 1.8 BB/9 in 139 1/3 innings of work. MLB.com didn’t rank Sneed among Milwaukee’s Top 30 prospects, and J.J. Cooper of Baseball America tweets that Sneed is a “three-pitch right-haner who competes with fringe-average stuff.”
I find it hard to believe that a 3rd round pick from two years ago has "fringe-average stuff"
118
Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: November 19, 2015, 04:11:42 pm »
40-man down to 34...making quite a bit of room for contracts being purchased ahead of Rule 5 and then FAs.
119
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5 Draft 2015
« on: November 14, 2015, 02:29:42 pm »
Roster currently stands at 37 - includes Rasmus for those wondering.
120
Talk Zone / Re: Let the Stove be Heated
« on: November 12, 2015, 06:04:07 pm »He's giving up a fair chunk of guaranteed change with that decision. Glad to have him back.
Sort of....
1. There is no guarantee he gets more (see Nelson Cruz, et al)
2. $15+ MM is quite a bit of guarantee - more than most people will make in a lifetime
Great to have him on this team.
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Talk Zone / 2016 HOF Class
« on: November 09, 2015, 02:33:02 pm »
The new ballot has been issued: http://espn.go.com/blog/newyork/mets/post/_/id/113181/mike-piazza-headlines-new-hall-of-fame-ballot with winners announced just after the beginning of the year.
Much of the "crowding" is beginning to subside, even if you include those labeled with steroid suspicions - that should help Bagwell who undoubtedly was left out of some full ballots with 2 straight years of 3 first timers being elected; Of the newbies for 2106, it seems that only Griffey seems to have the ability to get in on first ballot, though Hoffman will get some votes I'm sure.
If I had a ballot, here's what it will look like:
Bonds
Clemens
Griffey
Piazza
Schilling
McGwire
Hoffman
Sheffield
Bagwell
Walker
Much of the "crowding" is beginning to subside, even if you include those labeled with steroid suspicions - that should help Bagwell who undoubtedly was left out of some full ballots with 2 straight years of 3 first timers being elected; Of the newbies for 2106, it seems that only Griffey seems to have the ability to get in on first ballot, though Hoffman will get some votes I'm sure.
If I had a ballot, here's what it will look like:
Bonds
Clemens
Griffey
Piazza
Schilling
McGwire
Hoffman
Sheffield
Bagwell
Walker
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Talk Zone / Re: I'll just leave this here...
« on: November 06, 2015, 07:43:19 am »We're mocking a job application for a low-level position in a front office that has done great work... why, exactly?+1
123
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2015
« on: October 25, 2015, 12:34:00 pm »
The first half of the first quarter has been putrid in every aspect of the game. I can't honestly think of one play that has been "good".
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Talk Zone / Re: A night of bad calls
« on: October 06, 2015, 01:38:01 pm »So that's what the other team should have done. Thrown to 3rd to get a 4th out, superseding the 3rd out.
You learn something everyday...
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Talk Zone / Re: The 25-man playoff roster
« on: October 06, 2015, 10:49:42 am »A bit surprised. No VV? Under what circumstance are you going to bring in Neshek to this game?
If you get into the same situation as Keuchel's last start.
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Talk Zone / Re: A night of bad calls
« on: October 06, 2015, 10:48:36 am »Quote
A FORCE PLAY is a play in which a runner legally loses his right to occupy a base by reason of the batter becoming a runner.
Rule 2.00 (Force Play) Comment: Confusion regarding this play is removed by remembering that frequently the “force” situation is removed during the play. Example: Man on first, one out, ball hit sharply to first baseman who touches the bag and batter-runner is out. The force is removed at that moment and runner advancing to second must be tagged. If there had been a runner on third or second, and either of these runners scored before the tag-out at second, the run counts. Had the first baseman thrown to second and the ball then had been returned to first, the play at second was a force out, making two outs, and the return throw to first ahead of the runner would have made three outs. In that case, no run would score.
Example: Not a force out. One out. Runner on first and third. Batter flies out. Two out. Runner on third tags up and scores. Runner on first tries to retouch before throw from fielder reaches first baseman, but does not get back in time and is out. Three outs. If, in umpire’s judgment, the runner from third touched home before the ball was held at first base, the run counts.
Your situation is basically within the MLB rules as an example. However, the question unanswered by your description of the play is if your runner from 3B tagged - as noted in the example? If he didn't, I'm not really sure how the other team would appeal that play as there are already 3 outs.
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Talk Zone / Re: The 25-man playoff roster
« on: October 05, 2015, 04:58:09 pm »If you finally admit you have a problem, you go immediately. Good for him.3 weeks ago last Saturday I spent the afternoon and evening with a good friend of mine who was choosing to do the same thing. It was inconvenient timing for both of us, but it's ranks as some of the best 6 hours in each of our lives. He's doing well thus far; I will add CC to the prayers I say for my friend every day.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: September 03, 2015, 08:16:04 am »A small step back as Francis gets bombed by the Rockhounds last night.
Great recovery vs. Frisco - 6 IP, 0 R, 9K
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Talk Zone / Re: September callups
« on: September 02, 2015, 02:03:28 pm »
In August the 1B position, which has mainly been the Valbuena/Gonzalez platoon with a bit of Carter sprinkled, has hit 216/303/361. That's down right terrible. I know Carter brought down the average, though it's still terrible.
130
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Sea Shits @ Astros September 1, 2015
« on: September 02, 2015, 09:18:56 am »Actually Valbuena had been hitting quite well lately.
Yes, compared to "normal" Valbuena, but not anything to write home about: 231/412/308 over the last 7 days - 1 XBH. He had quite a run during the first half of August but has come off that quite a bit.
131
Talk Zone / Re: September callups
« on: September 02, 2015, 09:12:04 am »How much is not calling up Reed or White have to do with the 40 man vs how well they could do in MLB right now?
Who all is going to be need to be added at the end of the year to avoid the rule 5?
Charlie P was ranting about this on the radio yesterday and claims there is only 1 player that is going to be needed to added, I think he said it was Musgrove.
Here's the list: http://whattheheckbobby.blogspot.com/2015/08/astros-rule-5-draft-primer-and-2015.html
It's longer than just Musgrove in my opinion. But one has to consider F/A, trades, roster openings, etc which will create room.
132
Talk Zone / Re: September callups
« on: September 02, 2015, 09:07:08 am »I think they are assuming he can hit at least a little better than Chris Carter.
Yup. Plus - I think that he has a good eye really helps. His BB/K ratio down right phenomenal. In a situation where you want a chance at a runner on base or putting the ball in play - he's something we simply don't have on the bench at the moment.
133
Talk Zone / Re: September callups
« on: September 01, 2015, 07:47:54 pm »I would rather have the current Marwin/Valbuena platoon at 1b.
That's fine, but it would be nice to have a bat on the bench and the ability to start White if desired...or a PH that isn't all or nothing.
134
Talk Zone / Re: September callups
« on: September 01, 2015, 05:17:25 pm »
I really don't understand the idea of blocking Tyler White and maybe Matt Duffy. I don't care if White doesn't have to be protected this winter - if you think he can help you in a glaring fucking hole at 1B, then give him a shot. At worst, he's going to have a relatively good eye and manage the strike zone well. 1B has produced .201/.308/.380 this year.
135
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / AFL Rosters
« on: September 01, 2015, 05:11:41 pm »
AFL Rosters announced. Below is a link for the Houston Astros affiliated Desert Dogs:
http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/afl/club.jsp?team_id=454
Pitchers: Cotton, Minnis, West and Yuhl
Infielders: Moon, Davis, Reed
Outfield: Fisher
I must say, Minnis is a bit of a headscratcher.
http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/afl/club.jsp?team_id=454
Pitchers: Cotton, Minnis, West and Yuhl
Infielders: Moon, Davis, Reed
Outfield: Fisher
I must say, Minnis is a bit of a headscratcher.
136
Talk Zone / Re: September callups
« on: September 01, 2015, 05:09:19 pm »Was Thatcher the one who wasn't on the 40 man?Yes.
If so, I assume this is plan B for the playoffs if Perez doesn't improve.
137
Beer and Queso / Re: Worst called game in history
« on: August 27, 2015, 01:55:10 pm »Buster Olney just linked to this video of umpiring excellence. Eric Gregg is the ump. Have a happy Sunday.
Interesting follow up by FiveThirtyEight: Umpires Are Less Blind Than They Used to Be
138
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: August 27, 2015, 11:39:10 am »
Published yesterday: Francis Martes Scouting Report from Fangraphs
139
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Yankmees August 26, 2015
« on: August 26, 2015, 04:05:28 pm »...I kind of jokingly told a co-worker at the beginning of the season they would win 90 games. Here's to hoping I'm right.
Speaking of which, some participating in the Race for the Lid XVII have been eliminated and every win here after will be another elimination game for someone. I suspect many of those in the 70's and 80's will be happy to "lose" this year.
140
Talk Zone / Re: Roster Moves
« on: August 20, 2015, 05:13:15 pm »Quote
Evan Drellich @EvanDrellich 4 minutes ago
Hinch said Astros considered position players with options to make room for Velasquez but roster not at 100%. Rasmus banged up. Gomez ill
141
Talk Zone / Re: Starting pitching
« on: August 20, 2015, 06:14:03 am »The Dodgers are skipping their 5th starter (Latos) to move Greinke up and Kershaw into our series...and the Astros seem to be missing Feldman.
142
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: August 16, 2015, 10:27:50 pm »
Tough to see your day ending well when it involves seeing Feliz, VV and Gustave over 9 innings. So was the case for NW Arkansas today. Hooks win.
143
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Tigers @ Astros August 16, 2015
« on: August 16, 2015, 04:40:10 pm »
YES!!!
Screamed so loud my daughter came running into the room asking what was going on. It sure is great to have this type of excitement about the team in mid-August.
Screamed so loud my daughter came running into the room asking what was going on. It sure is great to have this type of excitement about the team in mid-August.
144
Talk Zone / Re: Carter a short-timer?
« on: August 14, 2015, 09:44:46 am »Here is one man's two cents on Carter. http://www.astroscounty.com/2015/08/oh-no-not-more-words-about-chris-carter.html
Interesting take. What is clear is that Valbuena has effectively taken on the CC 2014 role from what I can tell. We have two of the same guy.
CC will be gone by December.
145
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: August 08, 2015, 11:01:16 pm »
Moran 2-5 with 2 HR tonight. He's now equaled his 2014 HR total despite playing ~ 40 less games. Dude seems to be finding his stroke...could make a excellent fit at 3B if he can continue.
146
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: August 08, 2015, 12:34:55 am »
Wonder who gets sent down or cut?
147
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Hot sheet
« on: August 07, 2015, 03:42:54 pm »13. Colin Moran, 3b, Astros
19. Francis Martes, rhp, Astros
Good to see two pieces of the Cosart trade on the list this week.
148
Talk Zone / Re: Trade Rant
« on: August 06, 2015, 03:31:58 pm »There's a debate?
Yes - comparable shows according to www.internet.com include "The Jerry Springer Show", "Maury" and "Geraldo". Trump vs. Bush could prove to be more entertaining than Rousey vs Correia
149
Talk Zone / Re: Trade Rant
« on: August 06, 2015, 01:07:09 pm »For the record, I blame you for the Astros current 3-game skid. Just sayin'...
...which is fully justified.
150
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: August 03, 2015, 12:40:59 am »
Mike - kudos for some great work by the front office to build this team for more than just a playoff birth this year. I and other are really looking forward to the next 3 months (yes, 3).
When players are made available, does anyone other than the GM make that information known? Is it only through phone calls or is it sometimes by text or even a "posting system" through MLB (similar to the fantasy baseball mechanism of a player being "On the Block")? I doubt the later exists but am interested.
Again - great job in July...so many of us excited about the future.
When players are made available, does anyone other than the GM make that information known? Is it only through phone calls or is it sometimes by text or even a "posting system" through MLB (similar to the fantasy baseball mechanism of a player being "On the Block")? I doubt the later exists but am interested.
Again - great job in July...so many of us excited about the future.
151
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: August 02, 2015, 12:46:28 pm »
Agree the glaring hole is that big, consistent bat at LF/1B. That and re-signing a 1/2 type pitcher. Given the push Lunhow made for a back end RP both during the last FA period and the trade deadline I would guess he sees that as an issue as well.
153
Talk Zone / Re: Trade Rant
« on: July 31, 2015, 12:21:04 pm »
Other AA stars....
Lane, Paulino, Patton, Towles, Lyles, and more recently Singleton....there are many others of course but just a few names to jog the memory that AA stardom does not always translate. Prospects are, well, prospects. There's no sure thing.
Editing to add link I just found which I'm sure Lunhow and others understand very well... http://www.royalsreview.com/2011/2/14/1992424/success-and-failure-rates-of-top-mlb-prospects
Lane, Paulino, Patton, Towles, Lyles, and more recently Singleton....there are many others of course but just a few names to jog the memory that AA stardom does not always translate. Prospects are, well, prospects. There's no sure thing.
Editing to add link I just found which I'm sure Lunhow and others understand very well... http://www.royalsreview.com/2011/2/14/1992424/success-and-failure-rates-of-top-mlb-prospects
154
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: July 22, 2015, 11:26:54 pm »And of course it gets worse.
Same ref as...
Edited - I meant Mexico - T&T which chuck brilliantly described
155
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: July 19, 2015, 09:40:13 pm »What a horrible, horrible decision by the referee to gift that game to Mexico. That was a travesty.
It was certainly that, though Mexico was the better team. Campbell is so good and it looks like the Mexicans will consistently have a scary threat in Corona for years to come.
156
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: July 19, 2015, 06:09:38 pm »
Two very tired teams in Panama and Trinidad & Tobago going to penalties. The heat has taken its toll and both sides are exhausted. Hope Panama wins as Blas should have finished it off in the closing minutes of regulation.
157
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: July 17, 2015, 10:31:16 am »He's their best? He did not have a good night.
At least according to this power ranking and that he was named MLS referee of the year in both 2011 and 2014. Of course, he faced a bit of controversy in the World Cup for the lack of issuing a red card on a very bad foul.
158
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: July 16, 2015, 07:39:00 pm »
Absolutely ridiculous....and with MLS's best ref
159
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: July 16, 2015, 02:27:29 pm »Moran's bat showing some life, at least over the last 2 weeks. Now 14-36 in current 9-game hitting streak (and has hits in 11 of his last 12 games).
With a bit of pop too - July slash line of .340/.400/.500
160
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: July 14, 2015, 04:08:29 pm »
JK makes 3 changes: Jozy out, DaMarcus returns to international duty
Good to see DaMarcus back - solidifying that left back position. Altidore isn''t working, either due to his injury or desire or skill...not sure which. Have to say I'm a bit surprised that Matt Besler wasn't brought up to solidify that CB area.
Good luck to the boys in the knockout phase.
Good to see DaMarcus back - solidifying that left back position. Altidore isn''t working, either due to his injury or desire or skill...not sure which. Have to say I'm a bit surprised that Matt Besler wasn't brought up to solidify that CB area.
Good luck to the boys in the knockout phase.
161
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: July 10, 2015, 09:58:54 pm »Altidore is useless. Surely we have some youngster who would benefit from the experience.
If this continues, I cannot imagine Altidore starting at the next WC, maybe even the Centurio.
162
Beer and Queso / Re: RIP Ken Stabler
« on: July 09, 2015, 07:45:31 pm »Only 69. One of my all time favorites even though I hated trading Pastorini for him.
RIP. One of my first Oilers items was a Snake Rattle.
163
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: July 08, 2015, 04:21:46 pm »
Not an encouraging showing by the USMNT last night. Beckerman looked like he hadn't passed a soccer ball in several months....the back line was atrocious, led by Chandler and Brooks....and Jozy was completely disinterested in being there. Guzan was a force and Duece showed up when he needed to.
I'll chalk most of it up to it being the first game and JK doing a bit of testing of younger players. Surely Gonzalez and Belser will be centerbacks in the knockout stages and Bedoya & Zusi will find regular playing time. However, I cannot excuse Jozy's lack of interest. He walked, or stood, for the majority of the match. I'm not sure what it looked like on TV, but from inside the stadium it was noticed by many around me. The guy next to me said as they were walking onto the pitch to start the 2nd half (Jozy was having to talk to the center line through the Honduran side): "I bet if the referee would let him start on that side of the field he'd just stand there at the top of the box and agree to not move until the ball passed him." I'm beginning to think he is not the answer up there. I love the long ball hold-up play but it just isn't worth the remaining lack of effort.
I'll chalk most of it up to it being the first game and JK doing a bit of testing of younger players. Surely Gonzalez and Belser will be centerbacks in the knockout stages and Bedoya & Zusi will find regular playing time. However, I cannot excuse Jozy's lack of interest. He walked, or stood, for the majority of the match. I'm not sure what it looked like on TV, but from inside the stadium it was noticed by many around me. The guy next to me said as they were walking onto the pitch to start the 2nd half (Jozy was having to talk to the center line through the Honduran side): "I bet if the referee would let him start on that side of the field he'd just stand there at the top of the box and agree to not move until the ball passed him." I'm beginning to think he is not the answer up there. I love the long ball hold-up play but it just isn't worth the remaining lack of effort.
164
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: July 07, 2015, 05:17:04 pm »ETA: $900K bonus (per Callis, via Twitter):
Looks like they are willing to pay some penalties as well but are still sub 5% excess.
165
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: June 30, 2015, 05:29:24 pm »
Mike - has the league issued any guidance on how time from PED suspensions will be handled for Rule 5 players? If yes, what was it?
166
Talk Zone / Re: Aiken's Medicals
« on: June 23, 2015, 08:51:34 am »About half of what the Astros offered him. Dumbass.
And even more than the 40% slot ($3.1 MM) the Astros originally retreated to in the wake of the physical.
167
Beer and Queso / Re: US Open
« on: June 19, 2015, 09:07:23 am »Woods dragged Fowler (81) and Oosthuizen (77) down with him.
What's tough is that they were a featured group on national TV last night. Completely embarrassing. The line of the night was in reviewing Wood's topping of his second shot on 18 (which rolled into the bunker) - "Here's a shot we've all experienced before." Tiger just seems very human now - not the superhuman we held on a pedestal just a few short years ago.
168
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: June 19, 2015, 09:04:43 am »A little more on that exit velocity here: http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/lets-watch-carlos-correa-do-something-amazing/
Impressive.
In addition to Correa, if things continue as they have for the last week, a combination of Tucker-Springer-Santana in the OF....Correa and Altuve up the middle. This is just going to be a lot of fun to watch over the next 5-6 years.
169
Beer and Queso / Re: Gold Cup
« on: June 11, 2015, 06:52:34 am »Nice warm up for the USMNT, they beat the Netherlands in Amsterdam (4-3) and today beat World Camps Germany in Cologne (2-1). Smells like victory.
Their Gold Cup campaign kicks off in Dallas on July 7 at 8:30pm CDT. I think they're ready.
Great wins - both of them. They were wins against "A" sides. Older USMNT would have been happy with a draw and likely played defensively in the final 10 mins. The squad here will be a bit different, but could actually be seen as being better talent than what was used in Europe. I look forward to seeing them in Dallas in a few weeks - going with a Honduran friend of mine.
chuck - I'll root for you boys in the first game. Blas should get plenty of support here if he plays. Oh, btw that trip to Panama looks like it will likely be in July. Will keep you updated.
170
Talk Zone / Re: 2015 Road to Omaha
« on: June 09, 2015, 12:46:29 pm »As for the CWS-bound:
4 SEC
2 ACC
1 BIG 12
1 Big West
Bracket - http://www.ncaa.com/interactive-bracket/baseball/d1
Heart breaker for the Ags last night, but the better team won....looking forward to the LSU/TCU match-up.
171
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: June 09, 2015, 11:23:13 am »
No question - just wanted to say that day 1 of the draft was quite impressive. Well done - just have to get them signed.
172
Talk Zone / Re: Fan seriously injured at Red Sox game
« on: June 06, 2015, 10:42:03 am »
Prayers to her and her family - specifically her son.
On Wed night someone at MMP got drilled on the 3B side. I couldn't see much from the 1B side other than the O's throwing towels up onto the dugout (presumably for blood) and people frantically looking for assistance from medical personnel.
It does seem that things like this are happening more but I'm also fairly certain it's perception.
On Wed night someone at MMP got drilled on the 3B side. I couldn't see much from the 1B side other than the O's throwing towels up onto the dugout (presumably for blood) and people frantically looking for assistance from medical personnel.
It does seem that things like this are happening more but I'm also fairly certain it's perception.
173
Talk Zone / Re: Trade talk
« on: June 05, 2015, 01:40:14 pm »
What would you feel comfortable giving up for Hamels (assuming some salary relief - $30 MM or basically one year + buyout)?
174
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 3, 2015
« on: June 03, 2015, 08:33:01 pm »I really like the way McCullers is pitching these guys. He's very impressive for such a young guy.
From near 1B the breaking stuff looks wicked.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
175
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: May 29, 2015, 08:44:00 am »And Rosenthal joins in the "Promote Now" drumbeat.
Wonder if he's noticed the last 10 days? If so, he's being sheepish about talking about it. Correa of course will be fine, but sometimes it's good to get some seasoning. The guy is 20.
176
Talk Zone / Re: Suspensions--No, No and Yes
« on: May 29, 2015, 08:41:39 am »
Hamilton debuted last night in Arlington against the BoSox and ripped a double on the first pitch. He looked pretty good out there - not looking forward to the Astoe facing him a number of times this year.
177
Beer and Queso / Re: Qatar. WTF?
« on: May 27, 2015, 01:45:50 pm »Shit is hitting fans all over the place now. The US DOJ has issued warrants for a fistful of FIFA suits over bribery, corruption and racketeering; while the Swiss authorities are launching a criminal investigation into the awards of the 2018 and20222021 World Cups. The DOJ action appears to have real teeth and, let's face it, if they come for you, you're already fucked. It remains to be seen if the Swiss action is genuine, or more cover for their homeboy Blatter.
All this is taking place on the cusp of FIFA's latest sham election to re-anoint Blatter as the fat cat di tutti cati. He, of course, thus far, being free from indictment, while expressing his shock...SHOCK...that there wasgambling going on herebribery and corruption in FIFA.
I don't know the exact charges, but the is ripe for the long-armed Foreign Corrupt Practicies Act (FCPA). It is not a law to be fucked with and has some serious teeth. Basically, if the crime involved the USA in any form or fashion, including wired money that made its way through the US banking system even just in transit...you're screwed.
Also, there is no way that Blatter has deniability here. Ask yourself, if you are a CEO and the main product of your business (World Cup) was sold corruptly and many of your key staff (VPs and Federation presidents) were performing corrupt practices...how are you not accountable? Either (1) you were involved OR (2) you're incompetent for not managing your business properly. What a farce.
178
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: May 21, 2015, 09:54:40 pm »Sure about all of those? I think you're looking at some of Jose Fernandez's stats, since Reed hasn't attempted any steals this season. Reed does lead the team in HR (10), tied for 1st in Runs (30, with Phillips), 1st in RBI (31), and 1st in walks by a mile (28). He's tied for 3rd in Ks (39, with Fernandez, 1 behind McDonald and Davis) and he's tied for 2nd in triples with four others. Fernandez (who was tied with Reed in Ks), has been caught stealing 7 times, against 5 successful steal attempts (one behind Vasquez).
I stand corrected on the SB & Cs stats.
179
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: May 21, 2015, 06:49:06 am »One of those things is not like the others.
Yes...but didn't want to cherry pick. He probably needs to not run as much.
180
Talk Zone / Re: Singleton
« on: May 20, 2015, 10:10:35 pm »It's the (cough...cough) bronchitis.
Has he had it since March?
181
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: May 20, 2015, 06:35:38 pm »After going 2-4 today, A.J. Reed is hitting .362/.444/.754 in May.
Great to see after such a tough start. He now leads the 'Hawks in HR, R, RBI ,BB. CS and only one short of SO, SB and 3B.
182
Beer and Queso / Re: NFL Changes Stupid "Bryant" Catch Rule...
« on: May 20, 2015, 06:31:50 pm »Kickoffs had historically been from the 35, but people thought touchbacks were boring, so they moved them back to the 30. Then there was a rash of injuries on kick offs, so they moved it back to the 35.
Not long before they just start the ball at the 20 everytime.
183
Talk Zone / Re: Singleton
« on: May 20, 2015, 06:28:48 pm »We're paying him a big league salary and he's chewing up AAA.
Haven't heard Bud Norris say much about Singleton this year...not much at all. Cat got his tounge?
184
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Quad Cities
« on: May 19, 2015, 06:06:04 pm »
What's the story on C Jacob Nottingham? Maybe the HS pick has started to learn some things about pro ball and has turned things around? A 320/397/583 slash line isn't too bad for a catcher. How is he as a receiver?
185
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: May 19, 2015, 03:04:27 pm »And it continues--couple of more home runs (#9 & #10) in this afternoon's game vs El Paso.
Slash line now 318/419/644
186
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: May 11, 2015, 03:52:35 pm »Was he at the game today at all? I find it very hard to believe that he wouldn't be in warm ups or in the dugout and his absence not be noticed.
Article on the Astros.com site now
...was hoping to see him in Frisco this weekend - oh well.
187
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: May 08, 2015, 06:12:26 pm »As far as any reported source other than Heyman, it hasn't happened. Luhnow said earlier this week that Correa will probably be promoted to AAA "this month."
Hope it doesn't happen until after next weekend so I can catch him in Frisco.
188
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros May 4, 2015
« on: May 04, 2015, 08:25:14 pm »
ROOT just went black here in DFW. Have to watch the Rangers feed now.
189
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaUrchins @ Astros May 1, 2015
« on: May 02, 2015, 05:16:09 am »
This is fun - they're winning AND I can actually see it on TV
190
Talk Zone / Re: Former Astros news
« on: May 02, 2015, 05:14:06 am »Effective enough (5/6/3/2/3/2) in getting the first W of his career.
Happy for him
191
Beer and Queso / Re: 2015 NFL Draft
« on: May 02, 2015, 05:12:48 am »
Pretty good haul on the second day:
Probably the best ILB available in the draft who will be a solid backer to pair up with Cushing and a projected 1st rounder in the 3rd in J. Strong who can high point a ball pretty darn well (this is something Hopkins struggles with IMHO).
Neither of these guys are going to be stars (I.e. Top 10 at their position) but they're both likely to be good to very good.
Probably the best ILB available in the draft who will be a solid backer to pair up with Cushing and a projected 1st rounder in the 3rd in J. Strong who can high point a ball pretty darn well (this is something Hopkins struggles with IMHO).
Neither of these guys are going to be stars (I.e. Top 10 at their position) but they're both likely to be good to very good.
192
Beer and Queso / Re: 2015 NFL Draft
« on: April 30, 2015, 09:25:29 pm »
Thought Parker might just fall to them but Johnson is a good pick as well. JJo isn't going to be around forever and with Andrew Luck around they need 3 CBs anyway. It will be interesting to see how tomorrow goes...2nd and 3rd round picks are just as important.
193
Talk Zone / Re: Anyone Watching the O's Game?
« on: April 29, 2015, 01:47:28 pm »Playing in an empty stadium is so bizarre to watch on TV. You hear so much stuff that you'd never pick up at a normal game.
Occasionally get to see this with soccer in Europe - they often punish teams for racism by fans by banning attendance at home matches. It's amazing what you can hear.
194
Beer and Queso / 2015 NFL Draft
« on: April 29, 2015, 01:39:15 pm »
The long awaited NFL draft is a day away...just under 30 hours to be more specific.
I'd like to see the Texans take either a WR or ILB in the first, though I'd be ok with an CB too. Projections seem to be all over the place. To give Mallet or Hoyer a real shot, they need targets...Hopkins + a bunch of fodder just isn't enough. Likewise, Vandermeer just doesn't say the name Cushing as much as he used to during play calls. Cushing used to be part of nearly every tackle, but now he's getting there late - I don't blame him...it's injuries and age.
It will be interesting to see if Winston goes 1, if Mariota falls. It will also be interesting to see how the teams react to Ray's recent arrest and if a special talent like Gurley can get drafted in the 1st despite the perceived lack of value placed on RBs in the league at the moment.
I'd like to see the Texans take either a WR or ILB in the first, though I'd be ok with an CB too. Projections seem to be all over the place. To give Mallet or Hoyer a real shot, they need targets...Hopkins + a bunch of fodder just isn't enough. Likewise, Vandermeer just doesn't say the name Cushing as much as he used to during play calls. Cushing used to be part of nearly every tackle, but now he's getting there late - I don't blame him...it's injuries and age.
It will be interesting to see if Winston goes 1, if Mariota falls. It will also be interesting to see how the teams react to Ray's recent arrest and if a special talent like Gurley can get drafted in the 1st despite the perceived lack of value placed on RBs in the league at the moment.
195
Beer and Queso / Re: USMNT v El Tri
« on: April 15, 2015, 10:43:36 pm »Rights dispute between FS1 and Uverse
Didn't know this -aggregating but is what it is.
Good to see 2-0 return.
196
Beer and Queso / USMNT v El Tri
« on: April 15, 2015, 08:13:56 pm »
I was watching the pre-game on FS1 and now it's darts? Found it on the Spanish channel but surely it's somewhere on an English channel too. Anyone know where it might be on Uverse?
Oh - and the pitch is embarrassing.
Oh - and the pitch is embarrassing.
197
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Season Ticket Holder "Gift"
« on: April 14, 2015, 09:54:48 pm »What is it?Trunk organizer with removable cooler bag OR football skin folio w writing pad.
198
Beer and Queso / Texans Season Ticket Holder "Gift"
« on: April 13, 2015, 07:20:17 pm »
Maybe I have a bad memory, but I can't remember a worse selection than this year. Granted it is a gift, so I need to remember that and not complain. However, it would be nice to get something I would actually use. This isn't confined to the Texans. If one signs up for a golf tournament, conference, or something else of the same issue applies. You might, and I mean might, get one useful thing out of it.
I liked the apron and of course the football in years past.
I liked the apron and of course the football in years past.
199
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Preliminary Rosters Announced
« on: April 03, 2015, 06:17:34 am »I'm kinda surprised Kemp is back in CC. Played 59 games there last year, and hit .292/.381/.425. Maybe they felt the Fresno OF would be too crowded with Aplin, Santana, Hoes, and Tucker? There is a DH spot....
Thought he was more of a 2B based util...which Fresno seems to be stacked with at the moment too
200
Talk Zone / Re: Baseball Fandom according to Facebook
« on: April 02, 2015, 01:24:57 pm »
An odd Pirates county in the middle of Oklahoma?
I wonder how Texas changes over time when the Astros start winning and the Rangers not so much...and RR returns to the Astros org.
I wonder how Texas changes over time when the Astros start winning and the Rangers not so much...and RR returns to the Astros org.
201
Talk Zone / Re: Team by Team Payroll - 2015
« on: April 02, 2015, 01:23:24 pm »The Rangers are spending $142MM (8th overall) for what's likely to be a last place team.
...which is artificially low by about $8.5 MM if the pro-rated portion of the Yu Darvish fee is factored in.
202
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: April 01, 2015, 08:50:57 pm »"Fuck the Rangers" is always in order, but their desperation (my impression) regarding DDJ should be viewed as a positive by Astros fans.
Completely agree. After losing Yu, the city seemed deflated and this indicates the team may feel that way too. DDJ can run fast and has bat potential, but this isn't going to help him develop....not that the Rangers care about that ultimately. Greater than 50% chance they'll try to put him through waivers at some point.
203
Beer and Queso / Re: Torchy's Tacos Bowl?
« on: April 01, 2015, 11:22:16 am »No, college football does not need another fucking bowl game. Having said that, I've always wondered why Austin has never hosted one. Well some folks may be trying to change that.
While I agree, it doesn't matter if the individual bowls (and uni's) are still making money.
205
According to McTaggart:
Fields, Obie and Peacock to start year on DL. Chapman, Hoes, Singleton to Fresno. Presley DFA
Grossman, Harris, Marisnick, Villar and Wojo made the club
They'll still need one more 40-man move I think....Dominguez?
206
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 27, 2015, 11:02:44 am »Wouldn't he now have a normal size ligament? I may not understand the nature of the repair.
Well above my pay grade
207
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Boy, this study really likes Brett Phillips.
« on: March 27, 2015, 10:15:18 am »
Reid Ryan like Phillips too.
From a Q&A with Ryan yesterday:
From a Q&A with Ryan yesterday:
Quote
Houston Astros @astros · 22h 22 hours ago
Q11: RT @BaseballCop75: We all know about guys like Correa and Appel. Who do you think going to be that surprise prospect? #AskReidRyan
Houston Astros @astros · 22h 22 hours ago
Q11-A: Good to hear from you Tim. Keep an eye on Brett Phillips, our 2014 Astros Minor League Player of the Year. #AskReidRyan
209
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 27, 2015, 10:10:12 am »The commentary/rumor I saw yesterday was that the Astros' issue was not necessarily just that he may need Tommy John surgery, but that it may not fix what's wrong with his elbow.
Exactly - the decision to lower the price was about taking on additional risk. They felt he had a higher risk to need TJ and that recovery could be different because of its size. Investment is about risk & returns, plain and simple. DD in all deals, whether baseball, energy, or healthcare often has an agreed price which can be adjusted by DD and perceived risk.
On another note, I can't believe (actually I can once I thought about it) how the national press continues to dig in and defend their trash talk of the Astros management last summer.
210
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 26, 2015, 09:16:50 pm »This is what he has to say about turning down the Astros offer, "The money wasn’t the only factor to consider. I wanted to play somewhere I felt comfortable, with a support system I felt would lay the groundwork for a successful and long career."
Whatever he has to say to himself. $5 MM is a lot of groundwork. Even after taxes he could have expected $3 MM which at 5% per year dividend throws off $150k/year. In other words, a comfortable life regardless of what happened.
I can't imagine this is at all good for Casey Close's liability insurance claim status.
Sad all the way around, though it will help to restore some of the Astros front office cred.
211
Talk Zone / Re: Former Astros news
« on: March 26, 2015, 05:18:45 pm »Hope so. I like the guy.+1
212
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: March 26, 2015, 05:16:44 pm »I think the process starts over again, but I agree that teams passing this time around are unlikely to change their minds.
Yes..process starts over. I should have been more clear about that and instead implied what you stated more clearly.
213
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: March 26, 2015, 03:07:02 pm »Gustave has been claimed by the Padres.
So he made it through the entire AL and then about half of the NL before being claimed. If the Pads can't keep him I can't imagine too many others (those with better records last year) will.
214
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 25, 2015, 02:13:03 pm »
For me its:
Hitters (13)
C: Castro, Conger (2)
CI: Gattis, Valbuena, Carter (3)
MI: Altuve, Lowrie (2)
OF: Springer, Rasmus, Grossman, Marisnick (4)
UTIL: Villar, Gonzalez (2)
Pitchers (12)
SP: Keuchel, Feldman, McHugh, Oberholtzer, Wojo (5)
RP: Qualls, Neshek, Gregerson, Sipp, Fields, Hoyt, Hernandez (7)
DL (1)
Peacock
Singleton in AAA, expose Deduno and Presley to waivers and outright them if possible. The OF seems to be in an okay position with Gattis, Carter able to play LF, Villar is doing okay in center. We have sufficient pitching depth and Deduno hasn't really impressed.
Hitters (13)
C: Castro, Conger (2)
CI: Gattis, Valbuena, Carter (3)
MI: Altuve, Lowrie (2)
OF: Springer, Rasmus, Grossman, Marisnick (4)
UTIL: Villar, Gonzalez (2)
Pitchers (12)
SP: Keuchel, Feldman, McHugh, Oberholtzer, Wojo (5)
RP: Qualls, Neshek, Gregerson, Sipp, Fields, Hoyt, Hernandez (7)
DL (1)
Peacock
Singleton in AAA, expose Deduno and Presley to waivers and outright them if possible. The OF seems to be in an okay position with Gattis, Carter able to play LF, Villar is doing okay in center. We have sufficient pitching depth and Deduno hasn't really impressed.
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Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: 25 Mar 2015 - Houston Astros at Philadelphia Phillies
« on: March 25, 2015, 12:56:01 pm »
Seems like Wojo continues making that 5th starter spot vs. Hernandez very interesting...
216
Talk Zone / Re: Former Astros news
« on: March 25, 2015, 08:01:37 am »I assume it is not baseball betting. That he is one of those fools who buys into those scams is the most damning thing.
While obviously it does matter, when it comes to betting on sports, athletes are held to a higher standard and should know that. It's one of those things you just can't afford (no pun intended) to associate yourself with at all because it creates smoke.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: March 24, 2015, 04:23:12 pm »Wow kind of shocked at this. He seemed to be doing okay.
It may just have come down to a numbers game for KC. Here is an article about it posted today: http://www.royalsreview.com/2015/3/23/8275799/the-royals-roster-battle-for-the-25th-man
As for DDS he seems to struggle to adjust to levels. At both Lex and Lancaster he had to spend more than a year. The first go was a bad one then followed up by a good full year. Myabe he starts back in Corpus (assuming the Astros take him back at half the price).
We are unlikely to see David Rollins back, at least to start the year. He's got a 1.13 ERA, .172 BAA, 0.63 WHIP and has really only had 1 mediocre outing with the other 6 being perfect
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Beer and Queso / Re: NFL Changes Stupid "Bryant" Catch Rule...
« on: March 24, 2015, 03:45:39 pm »The bigger new from the NFL meetings is them getting rid of the TV blackout rule.
Kind of...its only a trail...plus I read an article last night in which I recall reading that only 2 games were blacked out last year. That's <1% of the regular season games.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 23, 2015, 03:28:45 pm »This was way too complex....
There are so many ways that this could have gone down we cannot discuss all of the possibilities. The only thing I think they could have done with Nix (and may have for all I know) is to be upfront and transparent with him when agreeing the number. If they told him that they drafted him knowing that they needed to save money elsewhere...and likely only to come from a big $ place like Aiken, then he would/should have been able to take it. His sign-ability is why he was available at 5-1 and any other team would have been dealing with the same issue. Maybe they did communicate this, maybe they didn't. We'll likely never know.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Walk Up Music
« on: March 20, 2015, 05:15:03 pm »
High School: Get In The Ring by GNR though I think it would have been vetoed by the school. Otherwise it would have been Give it Away by the Chili Peppers
Today: Chicken Fried by Zac Brown Band
Today: Chicken Fried by Zac Brown Band
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 20, 2015, 02:45:55 pm »The Astros offered the guy five million dollars. Do you think they would offer any sum at all to a guy they thought was unlikely to play due to injury?
I know this has been covered but.....what's amazing to me is the advice he received to NOT take the $5 MM offer. To get that number again, he'd likely have to get picked in the top 5 picks. He had to know if he didn't sign that the Astros would be likely to have 2 of those 5 picks (or 2 of 6/7). Anyway, that really leaves only 3-5 teams who would have to take a chance on him having seen one ML team already show extreme concern. And even then, what's the upside? Another $1 million? Geez. Even if you KNOW you are healthy and can prove it, why take that chance? And now he's got the perception he has an injury of some sort? Many GM's will be frightened by the smoke.
222
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Washington Nationals at the Houston Astros - 20 Mar 2015
« on: March 20, 2015, 12:50:52 pm »
Did Deduno start?
223
Beer and Queso / Re: The Dance
« on: March 19, 2015, 09:30:38 pm »texas gone
And with SFA's loss the state joins the university as spectators.
224
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: March 16, 2015, 08:35:44 am »I'm thinking we won't be getting Rollins back.
Just remember, it's a long year. If roster situations get tight, who knows what will happen.
225
Beer and Queso / Re: The Dance
« on: March 16, 2015, 08:34:49 am »Dayton is in. What's your beef?
They have to play an extra game while others, less deserving, don't.
226
Beer and Queso / The Dance
« on: March 15, 2015, 05:51:49 pm »
So, my Dayton Flyers got hosed. I don't expect them to go Elite 8, or even Sweet 16 this year, but First Four? FUCK YOU selection commitee. UCLA is in....and safe? WTF? And hell, even Texas is a bit of a shock.
That said, looking forward to the next month. Plus, by the time the dust settles a real sport will have started its season.
That said, looking forward to the next month. Plus, by the time the dust settles a real sport will have started its season.
227
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: March 15, 2015, 08:31:53 am »You mean "Infielder" Delino DeShields?
That, along with the picture (astros hat and an old one at that) and the use of the roman numeral in the Rule 5. I wouldn't point it out if it was someone on a blog, but this guy got paid as a professional writer to put together that blurb
228
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: March 14, 2015, 11:20:36 am »DeSheilds leaves game with injured leg
I can't see DDS making it, even if he were to start on the DL.
What I can see is Shawn Krest displaying laziness in his writing.
229
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: March 09, 2015, 07:33:00 pm »
Mike - do teams use spring training stats for anything other than making a specific team to start the year (of course in the context of prior regular season performances)? If used outside of that, how are they used?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Kareem Jackson
« on: March 09, 2015, 03:44:26 pm »They still need two CBs. Joseph is still light years better than Jackson or anyone else they have. They've said all that money on Andre and Chris Myers. Why would release Joseph?
Yes, they've saved money here and there and spent other places. JJ Watt's cap hit is huge this year and they're now signing two FA QBs. It's all a money game, as you know. I just think at the end of the day they'll not be able to pay for both KJ and JJo. They currently have $7.5 MM left to spend (excluding the net effect of signing Mallet & Hoyer and releasing Fitz). They still need a WR to replace AJ, a DT/NT guy just in case Nix doesn't come through....not to mention LB depth.
By the way, here's a good write up on KJ: https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/03/06/free-agent-profile-kareem-jackson/
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Beer and Queso / Re: Kareem Jackson
« on: March 08, 2015, 01:23:53 pm »
Can't imagine that JJo is back with that signing....
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Beer and Queso / Re: AJWTF?
« on: March 05, 2015, 01:45:09 pm »And someone like George Foreman. And Lewis isn't really *from* Houston as in being born and/or raised here. He went to college here, which casts an even wider net. Looking at college athletes, what about Heisman Trophy winners? That's why I'm inclined to limit it to athletes who represented Houston professionally.
+1 for big George.
If it's just pro sports, not pro athletes, you have to throw in Bum, Rudy T or Bill Fitch into the conversation- all are Houston icons
233
Beer and Queso / Re: Panama #1 in "Well-Being"
« on: March 02, 2015, 10:13:50 pm »Come on down any time, dude, let me know. Do you still have potential business interests in Panama?
Yes, but the impending summit of the Americas has the governments in knots. Likely won't work anything out until after that takes place in April
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Beer and Queso / Re: Panama #1 in "Well-Being"
« on: March 02, 2015, 01:26:59 pm »
More interesting is the percentages within the article. Panama is nearly 20% clear of the next in line (61% vs. 44%) and nearly double the US (33%).
I hope to make it down there sometime soon...
I hope to make it down there sometime soon...
235
Talk Zone / Low-income talent
« on: February 16, 2015, 09:39:42 am »
Really interesting read from McCutchen: http://www.theplayerstribune.com/left-out/
It's clear that we don't treat those in the mainland, the same. Why can clubs not sign and then support kids through school, assuring they get both school and sports support? It's done all over the world in various sports, but not here.
Quote
Fixing that problem is complicated, but when I was a kid, I looked at baseball players growing up in Latin America with a lot of envy. If you’re a talented kid in the Dominican Republic or Puerto Rico, a team can come along and say, “We’re going to sign you for $50,000 and take you into our organization and develop you, feed you, take care of your travel.” To me, as a 14-year-old kid whose family was struggling, that would have meant everything to me. I would have taken that deal in a second.
It's clear that we don't treat those in the mainland, the same. Why can clubs not sign and then support kids through school, assuring they get both school and sports support? It's done all over the world in various sports, but not here.
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Talk Zone / Re: Free agent rumors
« on: January 24, 2015, 11:43:15 am »Maybe he wasn't guaranteed a spot in the rotation?
That's what I was thinking too. He implied language in the contract with the Astros would need to be added where it wouldn't be needed with the Giants.
The way D goes after the Astros, it wouldn't be suprising if he ends up being completely ineffective and sent to pasture like JDJO
237
Beer and Queso / Re: Jury Duty
« on: January 16, 2015, 08:21:09 pm »I was on an attempted capital murder jury a while back. We convicted, but only gave him 15 years. It was interesting to see the people who were ready to fry the guy on Day 1 before testimony, but then wanted to give him probation afterward. People definitely had preconceived ideas, but it was good to see them remain open-minded. We had a good cross-section on the jury in terms of age, race, and gender. Don't know about socio-economic, but there were several professionals, a stay at home mom and two students, so I'd guess that was pretty well represented too. It's an interesting process, and I know people think jury duty is a pain in the ass, but everyone should serve at least once in their lives.
I agree. We had everything from a dance instructor, to a contractor dispactcher, to a financial advisor and a taco truck worker. We had 3 black, 3 white, 1 white and 5 Hispanic. There were democrats and republicans and those of meager means and those who didn't think about the cost of going to dinner at a nice restaurant. It was truly a cross section of the city....refreshing in many ways.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Jury Duty
« on: January 16, 2015, 05:06:38 pm »
Sitting in a bar taking the edge off after a tough week. Convicted a woman of two counts of felony sexual assault of a child. She elected to have the jury sentence her: 20 years. The whole situation was completely fucked up. 42 year old woman and 14/15 year old child of her best friend. Lots of meth involved, some domestic violence and more. This kids lover is now in prison, as is he (for something he did later), as is his mother and father and his uncle just got out. I'm only skimming the top here. Please pray for Tanya and Jack, that this can be a day where they start healing.
239
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Pitch Clock
« on: January 15, 2015, 11:41:40 pm »
Good. I suspect fielders feel the same way.
240
Beer and Queso / Re: Jury Duty
« on: January 15, 2015, 08:01:14 am »it's still got to be horribly frustrating to sit in a room with jurors who are obviously confused about a subject that you could explain.
We haven't gotten to that point but I imagine that will be the case. We cannot yet talk about the case to each other - only procedure to this point.
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Beer and Queso / Jury Duty
« on: January 14, 2015, 08:24:01 pm »
Though I've been called several time, yesterday was the first time I was selected to be part of the twelve in the box. Having now sat through selection and a full day, it's very interesting to see the judiciary at work. As you might guess, I'm not allowed to say much (and by that I mean anything) about the case until it's over - forecasted for 3 days. Simple observations to date:
1. I could not lie to get out of duty
2. There are many who do, especially when they've made it past the questionnaire phase
3. The general population of jurors is quiet an entertaining crew - I sure hope if, God forbid, I ever end up on trial that the lawyers select jurors who are this side of the sanity line
4. The judge is extremely nice and has done a great job explaining the process
5. It's hard to stay quiet and not ask what I perceive to be relevant questions.
1. I could not lie to get out of duty
2. There are many who do, especially when they've made it past the questionnaire phase
3. The general population of jurors is quiet an entertaining crew - I sure hope if, God forbid, I ever end up on trial that the lawyers select jurors who are this side of the sanity line
4. The judge is extremely nice and has done a great job explaining the process
5. It's hard to stay quiet and not ask what I perceive to be relevant questions.
242
Beer and Queso / Re: 2014 Bowl Games
« on: January 13, 2015, 06:12:22 am »
This just in... Urban Meyer is a really good coach
243
Beer and Queso / Re: NFL Playoffs
« on: January 12, 2015, 06:01:05 am »Not really. He lost control. It was indisputable. The only way to let that stand is to blatantly ignore the rules.
Listening to the radio up here Dallas fan refuses to admit the rule exists and are saying calls like that shouldn't be made that late in the game (because apparently rules are only enforced at certain times). It's a complete meltdown.
Nobody (except one host I heard) seems to talk about Murray's fumble. Dude was potentially gone for six and instead fumbled, leading to a GB FG....10 point swing.
This just in - the rule sucks...it has for some time. It's cost teams wins in the past and needs to be tweaked. I don't know how exactly, but tweaked.
244
Talk Zone / Re: HOF Voting 2015 Class
« on: January 04, 2015, 07:09:00 pm »
I don't have insider, but what is the synopsis of why Onley abstained? Also, doesn't he technically have to put in a blank ballot to have the ability to continue voting thus nullifying 3 yes votes for every player?
245
Talk Zone / Re: HOF Voting 2015 Class
« on: January 04, 2015, 12:28:57 pm »Over half his career (60%) was in Colorado, but the point is, it's only the Colorado numbers that even remotely come to HOF levels. In the 40% of his career outside of Colorado, he belongs in the Hall of Mediocre. If he plays his whole career in Montreal or St. Louis, he's not even on the ballot anymore.
The guy kinda reminds me of Moises Alou. Very good, even great at times, but did not dominate his position.
246
Beer and Queso / Re: 2014 Bowl Games
« on: December 31, 2014, 10:12:09 pm »
SEC voices are relatively quiet today.
247
Beer and Queso / Re: 2014 Bowl Games
« on: December 31, 2014, 01:17:28 pm »
Was quite happy to see the Irish beat LSU yesterday. Zaire looked promising for the future.
Really enjoying the Peach Bowl though.
Really enjoying the Peach Bowl though.
248
Beer and Queso / Re: Another Case of Legal Advice Needed...
« on: December 30, 2014, 06:48:57 pm »
I'm not a lawyer, but my similar experience was to submit the claim into my insurance Co...they go me squared away and then they went after the other company.
249
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 28, 2014, 08:08:44 pm »
Opponents next year:
Home: Pats, Jets, Saints, Bucs, Chiefs, Colts, Jags, Titans
Away: Bills, Dolphins, Falcons, Panthers, loser of Steelers/Bengals tonight, Colts, Jags, Titans
Home: Pats, Jets, Saints, Bucs, Chiefs, Colts, Jags, Titans
Away: Bills, Dolphins, Falcons, Panthers, loser of Steelers/Bengals tonight, Colts, Jags, Titans
250
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 28, 2014, 12:59:22 pm »Jacksonville is NFC, road teams determine which network has broadcast rights in inter-conference play. Cowboys always trump Texans in SA and Austin when they play at the same time on the same network.
I don't even know how to respond to this...
251
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 28, 2014, 12:57:47 pm »Anyone know why Fox is doing AFC broadcasts this year? Texans fans in San Antonio are getting screwed by this for the second time this season.
Part of the flex program. Why they picked the Texans I don't know.
My question is why the FUCK is Key Martin still on this team?!?!
252
Talk Zone / Re: Free agent rumors
« on: December 27, 2014, 08:52:07 am »
I was surprised to not see the Astros entertain a major FA aquisition of an SP this year, but looking at it now it may make more sense next offseason. Several of the up and comers should be more known quantities. They should be prepared to press for mid 80+ wins in 2016. No so coincidentally, the SP free agent market next year is flush: Samalphebet, Fister, Grienke, Latos, Price to name a few. That seems to be a good time to add an ace arm and potentially lose a DP.
253
Beer and Queso / Merry Christmas
« on: December 25, 2014, 08:50:46 am »
Merry Christmas to everyone.
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”
Luke 2:10-14
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”
Luke 2:10-14
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 22, 2014, 09:56:07 am »The coach has the responsibility to put them in position to win and not snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. When he fails miserably at that, he shoulders blame too.
But he's not the sole reason as was implied. Anyone can go to a number of games and point out errors - AJ fumble against Indy, blown execution of coverages in a number of games, Mallet playing hurt against the Bengals - not telling someone....those are just off the top of my head. And for anyone to think the Texans would have a chance in week 17 to make the playoffs with Ryan Fitzpatrick at the helm when the season started. A league average QB would have beat the Cowboys or Colts.
All that being said - I'll be a big fan of the Chiefs and Browns next weekend.
255
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 21, 2014, 01:00:11 pm »
The Texans defense is playing as though Kubiak is a predictable play caller
256
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 15, 2014, 06:25:03 pm »
Well, at least the playoff ticket option has been removed from the account manager. There's that.
257
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 15, 2014, 08:26:58 am »Rumors flying around about possibly working out Vince Young and/or Tim Tebow, but since neither have taken a snap in a long time, I can't imagine they'd be an option.
Agree - hard to imagine. Case is probably the best option.
258
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5
« on: December 12, 2014, 05:54:57 am »Yes
As a reminder, he would have to clear waivers first.
259
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: December 11, 2014, 11:48:17 am »Most of the baseball nerds I follow on twitter think Kemp is not a good outfielder. I like Springer, Fowler and Marisnick with Grossman and some good players coming up in the system.
I think he'd be pretty good in LF.
260
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: December 11, 2014, 10:25:13 am »
Kemp to the Friars. I can't but help thinking the Astros could have put together a similar package and felt good about it. Castro + +. An outfield of Kemp, Springer and Fowler would be impressive defensively and offensively.
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2014/12/padres-to-acquire-matt-kemp.html
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2014/12/padres-to-acquire-matt-kemp.html
261
Talk Zone / Re: Welcome Luke Gregerson
« on: December 10, 2014, 02:01:08 pm »I'm not sure why you'd expect that. Neither have averaged an inning per appearance, neither have been closers. I expect 120 appearances/100 innings combined. But I applaud your optimism.
To be fair, they've averaged quite close to a full inning per appearance over the last two years - 0.945 innings per appearance. In other words, if you add them together you should get 1 2/3 reasonably well.
262
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 05, 2014, 05:43:41 pm »Considering the original report was that it was only bad enough that he needed one surgery and would be out 4-6 weeks, and now he needs a second surgery and will be out for umpteen more weeks, unless you consider additional surgery and time missed as *better*, it is, by denfition, worse than originally reported.
Just messin' with ya.
263
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: December 04, 2014, 05:21:10 pm »Wait...I was assured in September that he'd be back in 4 to 6 weeks, and any speculation that his injury is worse than originally reported is "a load of horseshit".
Who said it was worse? Maybe it's just not any better?
264
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: December 03, 2014, 10:54:41 pm »Blue Jays trade Happ for Michael Saunders, so I guess this ends their pursuit of Fowler.
Not necessarily. Saunders is a corner OF and Fowler a CF. They still have a gap in CF.
265
Talk Zone / Re: HOF Voting 2015 Class
« on: December 03, 2014, 03:42:22 pm »Not saying he's not a HOFer but Trammell over Bagwell? Geez...
I am - I don't think Trammell is an HOF'er. Very good player, but not a "great".
What I do hate about this season is how writers use it as a soap box. This guys entire article about his vote revolves around how he thinks Sheffield is a loser - a "hate" piece. He comments about how Sheffield made an "real error" to prove a point...so the guy includes Rose. Anyone else see irony in that?
266
Talk Zone / Re: HOF Voting 2015 Class
« on: December 02, 2014, 09:57:18 pm »
Bagwell
Biggio
Bonds
Clemens
Johnson
Martinez
Piazza
Raines
McGuire
Smoltz
Biggio
Bonds
Clemens
Johnson
Martinez
Piazza
Raines
McGuire
Smoltz
267
Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: November 29, 2014, 06:49:31 pm »
He can hang out with Geno and ghosts of football past: Tim Tebow and Mark Sanchez
268
Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: November 29, 2014, 03:55:09 pm »
I know it's a major expansion, and we have to see the 4 team playoff work, but it would be great to see 8 teams - conf champions from the 5 major conferences plus the 3 highest ranking teams as wildcards, limiting a single conference to two teams. This rids the issue of conference partiality, gives an opportunity to mid majors, who could be ranked as low as 8 and still get in, and making the best teams play the best teams in a broader playoff.
269
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: November 29, 2014, 02:56:09 pm »
The difference in the players seems wider to me than in May seem to you. I think the pitcher who zoomed through the minors was seen as a key. That said, I can't see this as anything but a win for the Jays.
270
Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: November 29, 2014, 02:03:39 pm »
OSU is not a playoff caliber team. I'm watching the GT-UGA game. It looks like FSU will have all it can handle in the ACC championship next week. Bama would have crushed UGA if they met in the SEC champ.
271
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: November 28, 2014, 12:42:49 pm »Well, they certainly don't "need" to trade Fowler as things stand right now. Open the season with Fowler, Springer, and Marisnick and/or Grossman and see where things go from there. If one of the latter two is doing really well by July and Tucker or Santana or someone is tearing it up in AAA, and the Astros are definitively out of the race, some club will be desperate for a quality leadoff man/CF.
Fowler makes the team better. A lot better.
I would hope that this is the path they choose, though the return now should be better than July. It gives the other team time to work out an extension.
272
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: November 28, 2014, 08:16:58 am »
This is the point - the market for a $9-10 MM Centerfielder with only one year left on the contract seems thin.
273
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: November 27, 2014, 12:38:39 pm »The Reds and the Pads are looking for OF help. Maybe Boston will want him; they only have like 10 outfielders right now.
The reds already have billy Hamilton in CF. Pads would be a good match for need. I just had a flick through the rosters - one option could be the Dodgers in a Kemp for Castro and Fowler type deal. I don't know if that's enough or even realistic given the lack of MLB only type deals which are done.
274
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: November 27, 2014, 11:56:37 am »Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe says in addition to Castro Astros willing to deal Dexter Fowler.
Who would be a match for Fowler?
275
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: November 25, 2014, 10:44:29 am »
Following up on the Rule 5 draft...do most teams have a draft board prior to the 40-man finalization date which is then just tweaked or is the board formed after it is set? Does much thought goes into competitor analysis in deciding who the Astros set on the 40-man or is that largely an internal facing decision?
276
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: November 23, 2014, 05:49:00 pm »Yes, Green is good, but Morris gave up more receptions and yards than any corner who has ever guarded him.
I'm not in a place to look, but I'd be surprised if green set any kind of yards record today.
277
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: November 23, 2014, 05:23:16 pm »Sorry, I had Harris on the brain. Darryl Morris is who was horrible today. Harris was only historically horrible. The DBs were generally awful today, with the exception of Joseph. Though I'll give the defense credit they kept the Texans in a game that statistically should have been a blowout.
I actually think Morris did a pretty good job against one of the best WR in the game. The frustrating thing was the lack of pressure on Dalton - he had all freaking day. I honestly cannot remember seeing him under pressure.
278
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: November 23, 2014, 05:23:31 am »
It's hard to give up a lot for a year unless you think KU can get an extension. You'll get a draft pick for him if he goes, but to give up a starter + prospect + something else is steep for what I think the Astros are trying to achieve.
279
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Rule 5
« on: November 21, 2014, 01:30:52 pm »Did you want a breakdown of every addition to 40-man rosters?
Of course you did.
Actually, I wanted a breakdown of who is available - that's much more relevant....but I suspect its coming.
280
Beer and Queso / Re: Immigration
« on: November 21, 2014, 09:56:51 am »There are intelligent ways of dealing with immigration. This is pretty far away from those. This ensures the problems caused by illegal immigration remain chronic.
I completely agree that it does not deal with the problem holistically. That is Congress's job and the President didn't overstep his bounds there. The fact of the matter is that many of those included in the temporary shield of deportation weren't planning to leave anyway. They now can become more integrated into the society - be willing to help law enforcement, pay income tax, and more.
The Republicans (of which I generally count myself as one) are on the wrong end of this - they have been trying to reach out to the minority and instead are cutting off their nose to spite their face. Sure, you can make arguments about the President over reaching, though its not hard to look into the past and see the consistent struggle b/t congress and the POTUS regardless of who is in office. However, they are looking to win the battle and not the war. This President is already hugely damaged...working to continue that is not the right move...instead building trust with minorities is where they need to be in prep for 2016. They have a rare opportunity over the next two years to use the President's desire to re-establish his presidency and to gather support for a working congress moving to inclusive behaviors. Plan and simple. Republicans often wonder why hispanics, who are largely conservative and deeply religious, do not vote for them - this is a chance to change that dynamic. They've started off on the wrong foot though.
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Beer and Queso / Immigration
« on: November 20, 2014, 10:16:22 pm »
First a disclaimer - my political ideology is somewhere between conservative and libertarian. While often overlapping, they are in conflict sometimes.
I did not see our President's speach today but have read a number of articles both ahead of and after his statement. A bit surprisingly, I have difficulty seeing problems with his plan and his actions. Sure, some of the actions (hiding behind prioritization of resources) can be construed as abuse of power, but POTUSs before and after Obama will do the same thing. There is a reason that Presidents are called our leader. While I have not agreed with most of the actions of this President, and more often with foreign policy his inaction, his plan tonight does not fall in that category. I think the US is a better place under this system than allowing it to languish without doing anything.
I did not see our President's speach today but have read a number of articles both ahead of and after his statement. A bit surprisingly, I have difficulty seeing problems with his plan and his actions. Sure, some of the actions (hiding behind prioritization of resources) can be construed as abuse of power, but POTUSs before and after Obama will do the same thing. There is a reason that Presidents are called our leader. While I have not agreed with most of the actions of this President, and more often with foreign policy his inaction, his plan tonight does not fall in that category. I think the US is a better place under this system than allowing it to languish without doing anything.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: November 18, 2014, 08:06:58 am »
So here are the Texans at 5-5 with 6 games to go, trailing Indy by a game in the division and the wild card by effectively 3 games (due to tiebreakers). Chances of making the playoff are low, but not eliminated in part due to a relatively easy schedule. If the Texans can beat the sinking Bengals, they'll have three "should win's", one 50/50 and then Indy. It's not inconceivable that they could be 10-6, but likewise one could see a 7-9.
Where do you think the boys will end up? My guess is 9-7, which given that we started the year with Fitzpatrick at the helm is pretty darn good.
Where do you think the boys will end up? My guess is 9-7, which given that we started the year with Fitzpatrick at the helm is pretty darn good.
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Talk Zone / Re: Free agent rumors
« on: November 12, 2014, 08:06:00 pm »I've always had the impression that he's a problem in the clubhouse, but I don't have any hard evidence I can cite. He also seems to be injury-prone. Games played the last four years: 93, 64, 86, 128, and I wouldn't count on that improving a lot as he gets older. I wouldn't want to pay $20M/yr for 100 games.
I think you glanced at his games played too quickly...the 93 & 64 were the same year, but for two teams. Last 4 years: 92, 157 (93+64), 86, 128. The point remains the same, but is a little less dramatic
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Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: November 12, 2014, 06:38:00 pm »For some reason you never see reports of a club complaining about another team's asking price being too low...
I've noticed that...weird.
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Talk Zone / Re: Cardinals' Oscar Taveras
« on: November 12, 2014, 06:37:26 pm »
So I looked up the BAC limit in the DR. Apparently it's zero, but there is a limit of 0.05 for "professionals"....this accroding to Wiki and supported by other pages I've found. I can only imagine that the 5x BAC is referencing the 0.05...so we're talking 0.25 - that's pretty damn drunk.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: November 09, 2014, 01:48:51 am »Good news Uncle Charlie - don't have to worry about polls anymore
Glad I didn't have to watch that - in South Africa at the moment. I tried, but to no avail. Went to bed after Golson's fourth turnover while observing on gamecast and twitter.
I was wrong about ND and wrong about TCU. It would be great to have the frogs in the mix with the championship scheduled for Dallas. Being in Cape Town, when I woke up the Ducks were only at halftime - weird.
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Regardless of the information contained within it, the platform sucks. I don't know a damn thing about how to efficiently construct webpages but this is not it. Pages take abnormally long to load because they attach 50 pictures to every sports article. It also makes access on a phone virtually unavailable.
In an industry moving towards e-media, there is a lot of dick stomping going on...
In an industry moving towards e-media, there is a lot of dick stomping going on...
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Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: October 30, 2014, 09:21:25 am »And you were still very lucky to win that game
Weakest argument in college football discussions. FSU was lucky to beat Clemson, Alabama was lucky to beat Arkansas, USC was lucky to beat Stanford...there are stories like that in the top 10 / top 25 every week. It's what makes college football exciting. A win is a win...including FSU over ND.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: October 30, 2014, 09:14:42 am »Honorable or not, playing Navy is different than playing Alabama. Notre Dame's schedule issues are entirely on themselves. If that's what they want, then fine, but they can't have their cake and eat it too.
You're right - a team that has a schedule that includes traditional powerhouses of Michigan, Florida State, USC, and Stanford, plus occasional contenders Louisville and Ariz. State, should be mocked for their schedule.
By the way, here's an alternative view of the FSU-ND endzone penalty: http://www.wsbt.com/sports/a-new-look-at-that-controversial-call-during-nd-vs-fsu/29232562 Although I will say that the night of the penalty, from the TV view, it looked like a penalty. After watching this I can see why Brian Kelly was upset. It shows Fuller (7), who was called for the penalty, potentially getting his route jumped. I don't know if it was the right call or not - it's simply not clear. The point of the video isn't to dispute the outcome but only to show that the angels we all see don't always show the whole story. I think that call could have gone either way.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: October 30, 2014, 08:00:26 am »Their schedule being weak is because of their choice to stay out of a conference for football because they don't want to share their TV revenue. Move into a conference and your schedule issues go away. Schedules are set years in advance but when you're scheduling service academies year in and year out, you can't use that as a rationalization. Give up a couple of million in revenue and join a big boy conference. Or at least the B1G10
They are basically part of the ACC with non conference games of Michigan, USC, Stanford and Arizona State. It's not a weak schedule. You should also read why ND plays Navy every year - it's honorable to say the least.
To answer the first question directly, their best win to date was against Stanford, who was ranked #14 at the time. I meant to put that in the original post.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: October 30, 2014, 06:51:19 am »Where do you think they should be ranked? What is their best win?
I could see bumping them up a couple, but until they knock someone off, not just lose a close on, they are about where they should be. THey will move up if they can beat ASU, USC and UL.
Probably 6 or 7. They can only play who is on the schedule, which is set years in advance. At the beginning of the season, there was a strong belief that ND had one of the toughest schedules in the game this year...then several of those teams have fallen down the totem poll. You're right that they will move up with those three games.
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Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: 2014 World Series
« on: October 30, 2014, 06:46:06 am »They seemed to have been beaten by one pitcher.
Reminded me of Kevin Brown
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Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: October 29, 2014, 04:59:32 pm »
Sure, I'm biased - but how can ND be 10th when they lost to #2 in #2's home stadium by a penalty in what many termed an instant classic. Too much credit being given to Michigan State, K State and TCU in my opinion.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: October 29, 2014, 04:56:03 pm »Video of Schaub's first pass of the year.
He's getting better - it wasn't returned for a touchdown.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: October 18, 2014, 07:23:12 pm »
Aggies with one of the most pathetic performances in their history. The offense is broken and the defense is somewhere between broken and exhausted - it's hard to tell.
Looking forward to watching the Irish tonight - I think they are a lot better than many think they are, but we'll find out for sure tonight. Golson has to keep the turnovers down.
Looking forward to watching the Irish tonight - I think they are a lot better than many think they are, but we'll find out for sure tonight. Golson has to keep the turnovers down.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Saturday Football
« on: October 12, 2014, 02:50:17 am »The late pass interference penalty is a problem for football credibility. That and the illegal contact penalty: either you can touch guys after 5 yards, or you can't. There are lots of instances now where guys are almost holding receivers 10 or 12 yards down the field. If that's a rules violation you've got to call it all the time. If it's not, you've got to let it go. But right now there's no predicting whether there will be a call or not.+1
Randomness in what is PI should not decide a game. That same contact was not called multiple times during the game
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: October 10, 2014, 06:45:57 am »Random thoughts...
I
Just to add to those....
The O-line was otrocious in pass blocking - the left side in particular - especially Ben Jones.
I don't think he would have gotten there, but Hopkins effort to recover that last fumble looked like he had given up.
This secondary is bad, so they HAVE to execute and communicate - last night they did neither.
Some of the officiating was not good, though the crappiness benefitted both teams.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: October 05, 2014, 09:03:40 am »The Cowboys have looked great exactly once. And you talk about the Texans' soft schedule...I don't know that you get more cupcakes games than the Cowboys get this year.
That is what cracked me up. The one game where they didn't play a cupcake was over in the first 20 minutes
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: October 04, 2014, 11:18:03 am »
Really wanted to go to the game up here in Dallas but just can't justify the expense. Oh wel - I'll watch it in TV. The radio voices have been in rare form this week..."the Texans 3 wins are hollow"..."Cowboys are finally beginning to get recognized nationally for how good this team has looked"
While I agree that the texans wins have been against some bad teams, the cowboys haven't been beating Denver or Seattle. What I wouldn't do for a Texans W this week.
While I agree that the texans wins have been against some bad teams, the cowboys haven't been beating Denver or Seattle. What I wouldn't do for a Texans W this week.
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Beer and Queso / Saturday Football
« on: October 04, 2014, 11:13:10 am »
It's been a long time since I can remember a College Football lineup like today. Unfortunately some poor planning on my part, but will watch what I can.
Aggie shave broken out early, clearly not hindered (h/t to HH's denial league topic) by their costumes today.
Aggie shave broken out early, clearly not hindered (h/t to HH's denial league topic) by their costumes today.
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Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: September 30, 2014, 12:17:21 pm »
Mike - with the interview and hiring process completed at this point, could you provide a little more detail about what a typical interview day was like for Hinch and the others. Who did they meet, who did they interview with and for how long? I'm assuming you cannot get into the types of questions asked or selection process, but some insight into the day of an interviewer might be fun to hear about.
Also, did you work it into Hinch's contract to read this board at least once a week? (just kidding of course)
Also, did you work it into Hinch's contract to read this board at least once a week? (just kidding of course)
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Talk Zone / Re: Astros vs. the Contenders using WAR
« on: September 28, 2014, 08:56:58 pm »Astros have a team WAR of -6.8.
As a bit of context and full disclosure, I used to be really into stats but have not delved into WAR yet (though I did get into Win Shares when that was becoming popular in some circles). However, this is an illustration of why I do not understand WAR at its face. WAR is explained at a high level as the incremental wins one could expect by replacing a player with a guy who was not on the 25-man roster (I.e. A good AAA player). Therefore, I cannot understand how this team would have collectively lost 7 games MORE than a team of 25 Good AAA players - do I misunderstand the concept?
Another issue that I have with WAR is that a majority (I don't not know the exact % nor would hazard a guess) of the people who talk about or even reference wat could explain it simply enough for people to "get it". Of the people who can do that I would guess that most of those people couldn't calculate it either. Therefore, I think too many folks toss it around and utilize it out of context. There are certainly problems with WAR in evaluating players. I don't know what they are of course, but anything that can take something this complex and break it down to a single number has problems and must be used in the right context.
As an expample, I'm a commercial / economics guy. Some of the key statistics we use are rate of return (IRR), net present value (npv) and profitability index (PI). We also use some proprietary ones, but I won't get into those. The point being is that each of those statistics have value but only in the right context. Some of our proprietary stuff is like WAR in that it combines things, but until you understand how it works it can be dangerous because it has it's contextual weaknesses as well.
Sorry to get on my soap box....I'll get down now...I feel (a little) better.
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Beer and Queso / Re: 2014 Ryder Cup
« on: September 26, 2014, 12:33:35 pm »
Afternoon not looking as good...
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Talk Zone / Re: The Yankees' SS
« on: September 26, 2014, 12:28:42 pm »
Both players were, but neither Jeter nor the comparable has been directly accused. Don't forget that Clemens, Pettite and several others accused all played with Jeter. He had access like no other, but is "The Captain" and thus the media would not stand for an affront against him on that matter.
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Talk Zone / Re: The Yankees' SS
« on: September 26, 2014, 11:59:39 am »
Great way to finish. No doubt HoF'er....but I wonder how many years it will take him to get in...certain a first ballot guy, right? Guess who (at least statistically) Baseball-Reference indicates as his most similar counterpart? (no peeking)
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Talk Zone / Re: Next year's team
« on: September 25, 2014, 08:38:25 pm »
I hope the Astros make a big push for the young Cuban kid. They played for Abreu last year, so maybe they'll try again this year. MLBTR reports he has a 70 on the power scale with his drawbacks being he swings and misses a lot.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: September 15, 2014, 01:24:58 pm »I think the Jets gave them a run for the money this weekend. Unbelievable stupidity on the field.The interception at the end of the half was horrendous - it, and the subsequent GB drive, was a true turning point.
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Talk Zone / Re: Collin McHugh and Qualifying for ERA Leaderboard
« on: September 15, 2014, 12:05:10 pm »Considering how close he is innings-wise I don't think he has to be a "qualifier" for the org to feel confident that his season isn't a fluke.
That's fair. Thought it would be nice to have two in the top 6 ERA, 1 in the top 2 of HR, top for average and SB. Springer too will be up there in HR for a rookie, despite playing in half of the games. It simply underscores the fact that there is some quality talent on the team - very unlike last year. It may be helpful as a recruiting tool for FA's and honestly, some wayward fans.
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Talk Zone / Re: Collin McHugh and Qualifying for ERA Leaderboard
« on: September 15, 2014, 08:06:47 am »
Even so, he'll need to last 6 2/3 in each of the starts to get there. This is just over his season average...no guarantee. Hope the kid gets there - it will be a big boost for the organization to have that leaderboard.
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Talk Zone / Re: Stanton
« on: September 14, 2014, 01:58:53 pm »So the lesson is: Don't swing at pitches that are headed for your face.
Or if you do, be sure to make contact. I wonder if Vlad would have hit that ball?
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Talk Zone / Re: RACE FOR THE LID XVI
« on: September 08, 2014, 04:17:01 am »This was Mattress Mac's pick as well. If the Astros win 63 you'll get $6,300 of furniture refunded.
Mac lost (or actually probably won from a purely business perspective). Anyway, he says $4 MM being returned to customers. Any of you participate?
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Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: September 05, 2014, 01:34:23 pm »
Mike- Having concluded the upper levels of minor league baseball for this year, who would be your All-Stars for the year in the minor league system? Who would be your "sleepers" headed into fall/winter league?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: September 02, 2014, 07:13:23 am »
The next team dinner check will be paid by JJ Watt.
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Talk Zone / Re: did i miss something about okc
« on: August 26, 2014, 09:15:25 am »
For reference, here are the AAA clubs PDC status (http://minorleaguesource.com/pdc.html):
International League (AAA)
Buffalo Bisons - Toronto (signed through 2016)
Charlotte Knights - Chicago (AL) (signed through 2020)
Columbus Clippers - Cleveland (signed through 2016)
Durham Bulls - Tampa Bay (signed through 2014)
Gwinnett Braves - Atlanta (owned by Atlanta)
Indianapolis Indians - Pittsburgh (signed through 2016)
Lehigh Valley IronPigs - Philadelphia (signed through 2016)
Louisville Bats - Cincinnati (signed through 2016)
Norfolk Tides - Baltimore (signed through 2014)
Pawtucket Red Sox - Boston (signed through 2014)
Rochester Red Wings - Minnesota (signed through 2014)
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders - New York (AL) (signed through 2018; owned by New York (AL))
Syracuse Chiefs - Washington (signed through 2018)
Toledo Mud Hens - Detroit (signed through 2016)
Pacific Coast League (AAA)
Albuquerque Isotopes - Los Angeles (signed through 2014)
Colorado Springs Sky Sox - Colorado (signed through 2014)
El Paso Chihuahuas - San Diego (signed through 2014)
Fresno Grizzlies - San Francisco (signed through 2014)
Iowa Cubs - Chicago (NL) (signed through 2016)
Las Vegas 51s - New York (NL) (signed through 2014)
Memphis Redbirds - St. Louis (owned by St. Louis)
Nashville Sounds - Milwaukee (signed through 2014)
New Orleans Zephyrs - Miami (signed through 2016)
Oklahoma RedHawks - Houston (signed through 2014)
Omaha Storm Chasers - Kansas City (signed through 2016)
Reno Aces - Arizona (signed through 2016)
Round Rock Express - Texas (signed through 2018)
Sacramento River Cats - Oakland (signed through 2014)
Salt Lake Bees - Anaheim (signed through 2016)
Tacoma Rainiers - Seattle (signed through 2014)
International League (AAA)
Buffalo Bisons - Toronto (signed through 2016)
Charlotte Knights - Chicago (AL) (signed through 2020)
Columbus Clippers - Cleveland (signed through 2016)
Durham Bulls - Tampa Bay (signed through 2014)
Gwinnett Braves - Atlanta (owned by Atlanta)
Indianapolis Indians - Pittsburgh (signed through 2016)
Lehigh Valley IronPigs - Philadelphia (signed through 2016)
Louisville Bats - Cincinnati (signed through 2016)
Norfolk Tides - Baltimore (signed through 2014)
Pawtucket Red Sox - Boston (signed through 2014)
Rochester Red Wings - Minnesota (signed through 2014)
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders - New York (AL) (signed through 2018; owned by New York (AL))
Syracuse Chiefs - Washington (signed through 2018)
Toledo Mud Hens - Detroit (signed through 2016)
Pacific Coast League (AAA)
Albuquerque Isotopes - Los Angeles (signed through 2014)
Colorado Springs Sky Sox - Colorado (signed through 2014)
El Paso Chihuahuas - San Diego (signed through 2014)
Fresno Grizzlies - San Francisco (signed through 2014)
Iowa Cubs - Chicago (NL) (signed through 2016)
Las Vegas 51s - New York (NL) (signed through 2014)
Memphis Redbirds - St. Louis (owned by St. Louis)
Nashville Sounds - Milwaukee (signed through 2014)
New Orleans Zephyrs - Miami (signed through 2016)
Oklahoma RedHawks - Houston (signed through 2014)
Omaha Storm Chasers - Kansas City (signed through 2016)
Reno Aces - Arizona (signed through 2016)
Round Rock Express - Texas (signed through 2018)
Sacramento River Cats - Oakland (signed through 2014)
Salt Lake Bees - Anaheim (signed through 2016)
Tacoma Rainiers - Seattle (signed through 2014)
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Talk Zone / Re: Korean Baseball
« on: August 22, 2014, 01:01:49 am »
Btw, having youtube'd Korean Baseball Cheerleaders, that does not suck.
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Talk Zone / Re: Korean Baseball
« on: August 21, 2014, 04:52:58 am »My whole group were Americans and we were all convinced that if MLB promoted this kind of environment that they would never have attendance problems. I am probably going to get season tickets next year for sure. My understanding is they're quite affordable.How many games a season?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Minor League Salaries
« on: August 21, 2014, 04:45:09 am »
Another interesting reference: http://www.jeffblankbaseball.com/salary-information/minor-league-salary/
No wonder that there is so much incentive to use PEDs in the lower levels. Just getting on the 40-man is a 5-10x change in salary, but more importantly it allows a player to live above the poverty line...potentially no second job required. Imagine if you thought you could take a drug, which although risky, could help you to make 5x-10x what you are making today? That doesn't even include the additional 5x-10x on top of that if you go to the majors. Those are major inflection points which are incentivizing to a dangerous degree. Think about I - a guy in AA who is not on the 40-man makes ~$100/game there. If he gets his contract purchased and is promoted, his daily rate is now more like $3k/game.
I know some of these kids get signing bonuses, but there needs to be a bit more focus on paying a reasonable amount to these guys in the minors.
No wonder that there is so much incentive to use PEDs in the lower levels. Just getting on the 40-man is a 5-10x change in salary, but more importantly it allows a player to live above the poverty line...potentially no second job required. Imagine if you thought you could take a drug, which although risky, could help you to make 5x-10x what you are making today? That doesn't even include the additional 5x-10x on top of that if you go to the majors. Those are major inflection points which are incentivizing to a dangerous degree. Think about I - a guy in AA who is not on the 40-man makes ~$100/game there. If he gets his contract purchased and is promoted, his daily rate is now more like $3k/game.
I know some of these kids get signing bonuses, but there needs to be a bit more focus on paying a reasonable amount to these guys in the minors.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: August 21, 2014, 04:21:08 am »Velasquez has walked 5 batters in the last 11 innings, not good
Clearly not, but you're searching for a mole on the homecoming queen. Did you also notice the fact that he has yet to give up a HR at home?
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Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: August 20, 2014, 01:38:05 pm »I know you may not be able to comment on this Mike but I loved the exchange on Twitter between you and Jose de Jesus Ortiz last night. We done sir!Perfect conversation.
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Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: August 15, 2014, 10:28:57 pm »Have Spurs actually signed Yedlin? That might be enough to make me hang my hat there.
Yup..http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/aug/14/deandre-yedlin-spurs-seattle-sounders
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Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: August 15, 2014, 08:35:37 pm »Arsene Wenger is too off-putting for me to pull for Arsenal. Has the man ever evinced any joy at all? I'm still pretty much in anybody-but-United mode. I like Bale a lot and was becoming a Tottenham fan because a) I like Bale, and b) it's a typically (for me) competitive-but-still-falling-short aspirational story for me, but after Bale's transfer I'm less motivated. We'll see who catches my fancy as the season goes on.
I ended up deciding to support Spurs for this season and beyond (if Fulham do not return) in the Premier League. While I considered Palace, Tottenham won out after Palace ousted Pulis, whom I liked and Spurs signed Yedlin, joining fellow american Brad Friedel. Several of my friends are also Spurs fans, which played into the decision. So Come on you Spurs...and in the Championship Come on you Whites - get back where you belong.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi - 2014
« on: August 14, 2014, 06:08:05 pm »Moran hit a game-tying 3-run homer with 2 outs in the 8th last night. His AVG is over .300 so far.
I don't see a lot wrong with a 3B who can hit .300 with an .800 OPS and a good glove. Plus, the guy may still grow into his power - he's still hitting a high ratio of 2B to HR...
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Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: 08/11/14: Astros vs. Twins
« on: August 11, 2014, 11:13:09 pm »On the highlight, you can clearly hear a yell of "throw the ball!" Multiple times.
Says he panicked...but I don't even get that. By the time you play HS ball, throwing the ball in from the outfield is a reflex.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Robin Williams
« on: August 11, 2014, 09:03:29 pm »RIP but suicide is fucked up.
I hope this brings some serious attention to bipolar and depression disorders. Learn how to spot depression and be persistent in helping when you see it. Also, if your sad, please tell someone...anyone.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: August 11, 2014, 05:27:33 pm »What if one looked at Arian Foster, Antonio Smith, Jonathon Joseph, Danieal Manning, Wade Smith to name a few?
Foster was more of a draft type decision - NDFA. They wanted him but didn't think they needed to spend a pick to get him. The subsequent $'s spent on him in FA is a question mark if that was the right decision. The others were reasonable - one could argue if the JoJo signing was good. Manning has been okay, Smith has been good. It's much more of a mixed bag than what he's been able to do in the draft. That said, I suspect that given the nature of the NFL, the same can be said for many GMs regarding FA signings....they are often for too much money and too long.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2014...underway
« on: August 11, 2014, 03:14:14 pm »
Rick Smith has done a pretty good job with the draft - free agency/veteran decisions, not a well in my opinion. One only needs to look at the Ed Reed, Alan Ball, Pick 6 extension, DeMeco Ryans to name a few.
With the draft, I can only think of twice where I was yelling at the TV when a high draft pick took place - Kareem Jackson over Devin McCourty or Dez Bryant and similarly when Witney Mercilus was picked over Stephen Hill, Alshon Jeffery or Janoris Jenkins. Granted, Mercilus probably ended up okay in that respect, but I really was pissed about the Jackson pick at the time.
With the draft, I can only think of twice where I was yelling at the TV when a high draft pick took place - Kareem Jackson over Devin McCourty or Dez Bryant and similarly when Witney Mercilus was picked over Stephen Hill, Alshon Jeffery or Janoris Jenkins. Granted, Mercilus probably ended up okay in that respect, but I really was pissed about the Jackson pick at the time.
327
Talk Zone / Re: CSN Bankruptcy
« on: August 08, 2014, 02:49:21 pm »I thought they said Comcast subscribers would get games as well.
I think that's right.
328
Talk Zone / Re: Springer sent down to Quad Cities
« on: August 04, 2014, 09:10:55 pm »
Hope Springer was pulled tonight due to the rain.
329
Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Blue Jays v. Astros 7/31/14
« on: July 31, 2014, 08:58:08 pm »
It seems like Castro is getting his swing back over the last week or so..
330
Talk Zone / Re: Luhnow open to trading Keuchel, McHugh and Cosart
« on: July 31, 2014, 03:38:59 pm »Aren't there about 15 guys who could open up those spots?
No
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Talk Zone / Re: Luhnow open to trading Keuchel, McHugh and Cosart
« on: July 31, 2014, 03:32:37 pm »It may be quite a deal in the long run, or it may not, but it doesn't seem to address the goal of improving this year's team.
It opens up a 40 man slot in prep for rule 5 and an SP slot for Trop, Folty, etc
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Talk Zone / Re: Luhnow open to trading Keuchel, McHugh and Cosart
« on: July 31, 2014, 03:30:10 pm »AND a comp pick.
Ok, I'll take the comp pick.
That's the first comp pick too. Astros will have 4 picks in the top 40 next year.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: July 26, 2014, 05:59:51 pm »I'd really expect the Astros to draft young men with better judgment than that.
Technically, he wasn't drafted. That said, I can see why he's upset. The guy has done everything asked of him and performed, yet no promotion. Life's not fair and Hader needs to learn that, and how to keep those comments off the net, but I understand the frustration.
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Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: July 24, 2014, 08:17:31 am »According to the basic agreement, the biggest 15 markets are disqualified from participating in the competitive balance lottery (with an exception for Oakland until they get a new stadium). That means that Houston will never be eligible for the lottery under the current agreement, no matter what our revenue is.
In all of the write-ups I've ever read about the CBL, I've never heard this - only that its the 10 lowest rev & 10 smallest markets; thanks for clearing it up.
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Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: July 23, 2014, 10:23:14 pm »
Thanks Mike.
With the competitive balance draft for 2015 set today, I thought for sure the Astros would have been in the pool based on low revenue. Given attendance and tv issues, I had assumed the team was bottom ten, but apparently not. Can you give any insight as to how MLB comes up with that ranking? I noticed that they use the term "revenue pools" - not quite sure what that means. Thanks.
With the competitive balance draft for 2015 set today, I thought for sure the Astros would have been in the pool based on low revenue. Given attendance and tv issues, I had assumed the team was bottom ten, but apparently not. Can you give any insight as to how MLB comes up with that ranking? I noticed that they use the term "revenue pools" - not quite sure what that means. Thanks.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Camp & Pre-season
« on: July 22, 2014, 01:28:26 pm »I'm not sure that's as simple as it sounds. He's going to require that there be a plausible road map for the Texans to the Super Bowl (or maybe just the 2nd round) before making a long-term commitment to the team. He would be crazy not to, especially as the Texans just started their nth reboot.
In the world of football, where career limiting injuries are common and there are guaranteed contracts do exist, the player will almost always take a discount to get security. How much of a discount is a bit of a debate, but its is the reason most contracts have such a large signing bonus.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Camp & Pre-season
« on: July 22, 2014, 01:26:19 pm »Regarding Johnson, it's pretty simple really. You show up for the workouts, you get your bonus. No player should be special enough to skirt incentives, no matter what. He needs to man up and get to camp. THAT is the best example he can set.
I couldn't disagree more that it's black and white like that. If someone (i.e AJ) has done special things for the company, then the company should do special things for that person - I see it in my industry (Oil & Gas) all of the time. If he just wanted the money without showing up, that would be one thing, but as I understand it he was willing to "earn it back". AJ has been a model citizen as a Texan up until this summer. There is no reason why he shouldn't be given a break. That said, I DO agree with you that the best example he could set would have been to just show up...but sometimes life isn't perfect.
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Beer and Queso / Texans Camp & Pre-season
« on: July 22, 2014, 10:28:13 am »
For being this early in camp, and with a team not projected to be a serious playoff contender, there certainly is a lot of drama. The 2013 draft is looking rather week in the middle rounds, where teams often develop or stack the much needed depth in an NFL playoff team. AJ is being mis-handled by Rick Smith (and others I presume). JJ Watt has to be wondering if the Texans are going to be the right place to spend the next 5 years of his life. Louis Nix ended up on PUP - a little bit of a concern.
I don't get the AJ thing. Recent reports indicated he was ready to come back to work at the beginning of camp. He had gotten comfortable and then the $1 million bonus for workouts became an issue. He was looking for a way to earn back that money, but wasn't afforded that opportunity. While I normally respect a common set of rules, and sticking to them, for the team, AJ is special. Special players get special treatment and if he was going to earn it back, how is that a bad example? It tells players that if you do good things (pro-bowls, re-structure contracts, etc) you get treated somewhat differently but still need to make amends if you break rules. Amazingly, that's been fucked up and now I wonder if he'll ever where steel blue again. To add insult to injury, AJ's mug is missing from ALL season ticket materials. They have to solve this and solve it quickly.
On the other hand, JJ Watt provides a unique opportunity. He's cheap this year and even next. Due to a number of events, largely re-tooling and an increased cap number, we have almost $8 MM in cap room. We're unlikely to need much of that, and if AJ gets traded or released then there is $3 MM more. Why not use some of that for Watt and get the extension done. He'll take a discount if we extend him now and provide him with some cash security. Instead of paying a large bonus, give him a high salary this year. Cash is neutral, but it saves cap space later.
All things being equal, I'm happy to see football creeping around the corner. Only 2 1/2 weeks to first game...albeit pre-season
I don't get the AJ thing. Recent reports indicated he was ready to come back to work at the beginning of camp. He had gotten comfortable and then the $1 million bonus for workouts became an issue. He was looking for a way to earn back that money, but wasn't afforded that opportunity. While I normally respect a common set of rules, and sticking to them, for the team, AJ is special. Special players get special treatment and if he was going to earn it back, how is that a bad example? It tells players that if you do good things (pro-bowls, re-structure contracts, etc) you get treated somewhat differently but still need to make amends if you break rules. Amazingly, that's been fucked up and now I wonder if he'll ever where steel blue again. To add insult to injury, AJ's mug is missing from ALL season ticket materials. They have to solve this and solve it quickly.
On the other hand, JJ Watt provides a unique opportunity. He's cheap this year and even next. Due to a number of events, largely re-tooling and an increased cap number, we have almost $8 MM in cap room. We're unlikely to need much of that, and if AJ gets traded or released then there is $3 MM more. Why not use some of that for Watt and get the extension done. He'll take a discount if we extend him now and provide him with some cash security. Instead of paying a large bonus, give him a high salary this year. Cash is neutral, but it saves cap space later.
All things being equal, I'm happy to see football creeping around the corner. Only 2 1/2 weeks to first game...albeit pre-season
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Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: July 21, 2014, 10:15:38 am »
Two quick things Mike:
1. I know you won't comment on here, and I suspect you might have read the Aiken thread, but wanted to let you know that at least this fan knows that you are doing the best you guys can possibly do in the situation as it evolved. None of us, not the fans, the reporters, or even the folks who seem to have ties to the "inside" know all of the info you guys do. Keep your heads up and make 1-2 in 2015 a good pick...along with the normal 2015 pick.
2. With the day off today, I always wondered what the team does in a situation like today with a day off in the middle of a road trip. It looks like we have 4 of them this year, with this being the first. Is it often the day that the team travels, or do they do a normal midnight flight followed by a true day off in the new city or does the team take the off day to travel leisurely? Is a day off truly a day off - no ball park, or is there some "work" that makes its way in such as BP, etc?
1. I know you won't comment on here, and I suspect you might have read the Aiken thread, but wanted to let you know that at least this fan knows that you are doing the best you guys can possibly do in the situation as it evolved. None of us, not the fans, the reporters, or even the folks who seem to have ties to the "inside" know all of the info you guys do. Keep your heads up and make 1-2 in 2015 a good pick...along with the normal 2015 pick.
2. With the day off today, I always wondered what the team does in a situation like today with a day off in the middle of a road trip. It looks like we have 4 of them this year, with this being the first. Is it often the day that the team travels, or do they do a normal midnight flight followed by a true day off in the new city or does the team take the off day to travel leisurely? Is a day off truly a day off - no ball park, or is there some "work" that makes its way in such as BP, etc?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: July 20, 2014, 09:59:09 pm »
Anyone seen Chan Moon play yet? His error rate is alarming to say the least. He's had very good batting stats, both at QC and LAN, but errors are eating up any value he may be constructing at the plate.
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Talk Zone / Trade Deadline
« on: July 18, 2014, 10:36:01 am »
Who gets moved from the Astros?
I would guess that we trade an SP and Carter. I don't know which SP, but there's starting to be a backlog in AAA of guys who need major league innings and a chance - if we can get a minor league asset in return at the right price, I think JL does it. Carter is what he is....an Adam Dunn type with a worse average and I think a worse walk rate. Next year he gets more expensive as a Super Two. I do think that he would still generate a return this year, given club control and power. However, I'm not sure what the replacement would be at the moment.
I would guess that we trade an SP and Carter. I don't know which SP, but there's starting to be a backlog in AAA of guys who need major league innings and a chance - if we can get a minor league asset in return at the right price, I think JL does it. Carter is what he is....an Adam Dunn type with a worse average and I think a worse walk rate. Next year he gets more expensive as a Super Two. I do think that he would still generate a return this year, given club control and power. However, I'm not sure what the replacement would be at the moment.
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Talk Zone / Re: National or Regional?
« on: July 18, 2014, 10:29:04 am »
Speeding the game up:
1. Create a finite number of times that a player or coach may call time (or time out) to visit the mound.
2. Enforce the 12-second pitch rule which already exists. Call the ball and if that's not enough make it a balk when runners are on base.
3. Allow each batter to only step out of the box once in an AB, with the exception for medical attention or broken equipment.
These are very simple rules and will speed the game up tremendously, as discussed in numerous posts above.
Back to the question about regional vs. national. I'm okay with regional because I don't want to see the game change much - which I think would have to happen to truly make it national. The one change I do think would help make the game a bit more exciting through the year is a national tournament, played during the season, similar to that of the NCAA tourney or FA cup in soccer. Cut the games back down to 154 games from 162, introduce short, 3 game series in a 5-round elimination tournament played over the course of 5 months, with one round per month. This would likely incorporate some Cinderella type stories, while also forcing teams doing well in league play and tournament play to make some choices regarding pitching - throw an Ace in the tournament give an extra days rest and focus on the league? Also creates some form of playoff atmosphere at least one weekend a month through the entire season.
1. Create a finite number of times that a player or coach may call time (or time out) to visit the mound.
2. Enforce the 12-second pitch rule which already exists. Call the ball and if that's not enough make it a balk when runners are on base.
3. Allow each batter to only step out of the box once in an AB, with the exception for medical attention or broken equipment.
These are very simple rules and will speed the game up tremendously, as discussed in numerous posts above.
Back to the question about regional vs. national. I'm okay with regional because I don't want to see the game change much - which I think would have to happen to truly make it national. The one change I do think would help make the game a bit more exciting through the year is a national tournament, played during the season, similar to that of the NCAA tourney or FA cup in soccer. Cut the games back down to 154 games from 162, introduce short, 3 game series in a 5-round elimination tournament played over the course of 5 months, with one round per month. This would likely incorporate some Cinderella type stories, while also forcing teams doing well in league play and tournament play to make some choices regarding pitching - throw an Ace in the tournament give an extra days rest and focus on the league? Also creates some form of playoff atmosphere at least one weekend a month through the entire season.
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Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: July 17, 2014, 02:22:36 pm »1 month till kickoff of the 2014/15 campaign.
Mixed feelings about it with out Fulham in the Premiership. I'll need to find a side to "follow" for the year until the Whites can make it back to solid ground. I'll have to limit myself to updates and, if I can find it, streams of the Championship matches while following the boys.
Any suggestions on a side to follow for a bit? It certainly cannot be QPR or Chelsea, but otherwise open to thoughts...
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I'm getting tired of the Aiken drama, and there's still a day left of it. I predict that the Astros will be slaughtered in the court of public opinion and fail to sign Aiken and Nix. The consolation of possibly getting Marshall and a comp pick in 2015 seems hardly worth the damage.
+1
For what its worth, Aiken may need to take stock in what he has to lose before turning up his nose to $3-5 MM. A quick glance at slots shows that range covers picks 4 to 8. It's hard enough to get into the top 3 in one year, much less multiple years - a single bad season either at UCLA or JC could hinder his ability to stay in that top 3.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: BA Prospect hot sheet - 2014
« on: July 16, 2014, 02:59:02 pm »
3 Astros mentioned in the July 11th article: http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/prospect-hot-sheet-july-11/
5. AJ Reed, Tri-City
9. Teoscar Hernandez, Lancaster
Helium Watch: Joan Mauricio, DSL
5. AJ Reed, Tri-City
9. Teoscar Hernandez, Lancaster
Helium Watch: Joan Mauricio, DSL
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Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: July 15, 2014, 04:48:34 pm »
Mike- in thinking about the concept of the ASG "break", I was beginning to wonder what type of cycle that you and other analysts like you, are working under. Tax guys get busy in March/April and then again in the fall. Accountants near quarter close, etc. Clearly you must be fairly busy around the draft, the winter meetings (FA and Rule 5), and July for trade deadlines. Are there other times? Are there some peak times that are more stressful than others?
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Talk Zone / National or Regional?
« on: July 14, 2014, 10:46:31 am »
This morning while driving to work I listened to an interesting discussion (to which they had no answer) as to what MLB needs to do to regain its prominence among the big sports as it relates to its stars. It's clear that both the NFL and NBA, and to a lesser extent even Golf, have their stars. Everyone knows them - Manning, Brady, Labron, Kobe, Tiger, to name a few but its not the same with MLB, with the exception of maybe Jeter, who is retiring. They are instantly recognizable and in the press year round (commercials, interviews, etc). The question is, can MLB do anything to reshape themselves to build up some of their stars to a national level? Is it a holdover from the steroid issue? It seems that Bonds, Big Mac and Drama Queen were huge stars - everyone knew their names, even those not "into" the game we all love. Before them it was George Brett, Henry Aaron, Mickey Mantle... So as we know it, is baseball bound to be a regional sport point forward, with little national enthusiasm? If so, is that a bad thing? Should MLB try to alter the image?
Personally, I like much of the regional aspects of baseball though I do wish there was a better job of promoting its stars, and thus the game, on a national level. The number of games MLB plays makes this hard, as does the fundamentals of the game and how its played (an Ace pitcher only plays every five days, at best). There are, of course, radical ideas which would certainly boost the importance of games and its stars but those are likely unworkable both from an economic perspective and integrity of the game as we know it.
Personally, I like much of the regional aspects of baseball though I do wish there was a better job of promoting its stars, and thus the game, on a national level. The number of games MLB plays makes this hard, as does the fundamentals of the game and how its played (an Ace pitcher only plays every five days, at best). There are, of course, radical ideas which would certainly boost the importance of games and its stars but those are likely unworkable both from an economic perspective and integrity of the game as we know it.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Boston
« on: July 06, 2014, 10:24:38 pm »Heading there in late September. What's the good area(s) to stay?
Thanks!
It's been a long time since I've been there but it rated as one of my favorite US cities at the time. I really enjoyed the historical area and little Italy.
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Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup 2014
« on: June 29, 2014, 09:18:28 pm »
If I had my way, the USMNT would earn a reputation for playing through even the roughest fouls, not going down unless physics and gravity insisted. But I imagine that would put them at a disadvantage against the likes of Brazil, so I don't really expect that to happen.
That is how Messi plays. I've seen him fight through 3 or 4 fouls where he could have flopped but didn't. Rarely is he looking for a foul, but rather is focused on scoring. If the ref stops the game, fine, but otherwise play as hard as you can and look to score.
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Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup 2014
« on: June 29, 2014, 01:01:13 pm »
Geez. I feel bad for Mexico. They were better.
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Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup 2014
« on: June 29, 2014, 12:09:48 pm »
That goal from Mexico has been coming all game. Good for Concacaf.
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Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Tigers @ Astros June 28, 2014
« on: June 29, 2014, 12:08:43 pm »They don't have an off-day until July 10th. You are going to need Qualls again. They have gotten rid of other relievers, so I imagine Williams will be shown the door soon.
Very soon. With promotions happening mid-season, there just isn't room on the 25-man for a pitcher like Williams. He seems like a great person, he's just not an MLB pitcher. Hindsight is better than foresight of course, but a DFA of Williams would have been the better choice than sending down Buchanan.
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Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup 2014
« on: June 28, 2014, 10:00:11 pm »Brazil seem like the ultimate front-runners. If they score first and everything is going well, they're fantastic. If they have to buckle down and actually work, they suck. I feel really bad for Chile, who seemed like they deserved the victory. I'm also reasonably confident that Columbia will make the sorry Brazil back line look like shit.
+1. I'll pick Columbia to beat Brazil later this week.
I'm looking forward to the Holland/Mexico match tomorrow. Costa Rica should dispatch Greece, but you never know.
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Talk Zone / Re: Cespedes does it again!
« on: June 28, 2014, 04:21:16 pm »Stanton beat that throw, though, he just slid by the plate and got tagged reaching in with his hand.
So...he's still out and the LF is still credited with an assist as a result of a laser throw, right?
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Talk Zone / Re: reminder vote altuve
« on: June 28, 2014, 04:18:51 pm »
It won't matter. Cano is enjoying his Yankee historical ties which will ride him to the start. That, despite the fact that Altuve leads the AL in hits, average, and SB, and is second in doubles. He also leads AL 2Bs in OPS. I presume that the players and coaches have noticed this and will vote him in.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Draft
« on: June 18, 2014, 12:54:36 pm »He's whining and trying to get traded. I like Andre. I understand his frustration. I don't disagree with his sentiment. But he's made his point. He's under contract. He needs to shut up and get to training camp.
He's really starting to damage his reputation at this point.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Washington Reedskyns (TM)
« on: June 18, 2014, 12:53:06 pm »There is no doubt the name is offensive and violates the trademark prohibitions.
It's amazing to me that the NFL, for all of its concern about "The Shield", didn't get ahead of this and get a name change done. When you look at the names of teams, this one stands out like a sore thumb. Hell, keep the symbol and name the team Warriors (or something of the sort). If anyone were to try to name a team "Blackskins" or "Whiteskins" or...well you get the point. This is epically bad in today's historical context.
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Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup 2014
« on: June 17, 2014, 07:08:13 am »That was the worst game the USMNT has played in 2 years...and yet they somehow got 3 points.
Never imagined Michael Bradley could play so bad and we would win, heck outside of the first 30 seconds not sure outside of Tim Howard or Jermaine Jones played well.
+1, though I would add Beckerman to playing a relatively good match
Bradley and Bedoya were terrible, but Bradley's impact was something I was surprised we overcame. Dempsey never seemed to be the same after the broken nose and loss of Altidore. If we can get Bradley to revert to form & replace Bedoya with Zuzi, we should be in good shape. Klins needs to think about how they play the Altidore role. Johannsson is a finisher and struggles holding up play. He, nor Wondo is suited to play that style.
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Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup 2014
« on: June 16, 2014, 05:56:21 pm »And twang goes Altidore's hammy.
Interesting that if he's out for a few weeks, does Donovan replace?
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Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup 2014
« on: June 16, 2014, 06:59:20 am »For most of the first half it looked like Honduras would keep this going but France finally wore them down.
On the positive side for Honduras, the Swiss looked mediocre. If France can win by 3 later this week over them it will set up a "winner gets through" tie between Honduras and the Swiss.....assuming Honduras can dispatch Ecuador which isn't in itself a given.
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Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup 2014
« on: June 13, 2014, 11:55:37 pm »
RVP with one of the best goals you will ever see in your lifetime.... That is what the WC is all about.
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Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros June 5, 2014
« on: June 05, 2014, 10:04:56 pm »
Playing ~600 ball over the last 27 games - yes, a little cherry picking here but 27 games is a good sample. 14 of the next 16 come against teams with losing records, 11 of which are teams with worse records than the Astros. It's a good time to make some hay.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: June 04, 2014, 08:57:31 am »Correa supporting this line over the last 10 games:Ruiz isn't quite as strong, but he's still strong to very strong over the last 10:
447/553/711
371/489/486.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Oklahoma City - 2014
« on: June 02, 2014, 03:59:19 pm »missing '99 with injury
...the dreaded treadmill gremlin.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: May 31, 2014, 07:43:18 am »
from Law's updated top 25-
Appel's inability to adjust to Houston's four-day tandem rotation scheme isn't at all his fault, nor is it any kind of demerit toward his prospect status; the tandem system has its merits, but I wouldn't want to experiment like that with the first overall pick in the draft and my top pitching prospect.
So Law would change the entire minor league pitching philosophy/system because he has the number 1 pick?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: May 29, 2014, 09:26:32 am »game at MMPUS against the Missions
I guess I've been under a rock - didn't know that this was happening. What a great idea. It would be good to also have OKC play in Houston as well, maybe against RR - that's probably happening too for all I know.
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Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Astros @ Royals - 5/28/14
« on: May 28, 2014, 02:28:04 pm »I'm doing this fairly simply, I think. He's basically had 9 HRs in May (with a few days to go). There are 4 months to go, so that's 36 more home runs for the season, which would come out to 45 for the season. I guess I could divide up games and get a better pace, but would that lose 11?
He played part of April as well.
Springer missed 16 games, the Astros has played 54 (including today), meaning he was eligible to play in 38 games.
Springer missed 16 games, assuming he's eligible for the rest of the 162 game schedule, that would make him eligible to play in 146 games.
So 146/38 = 3.84 - the scaling factor for any of his "counting" stats. Since he has had 9 HR, that scales to 34.6 HR. I rounded down since you can't hit less than a full HR.
This of course is a linear model and simplified...meaning its wrong too.
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Beer and Queso / Re: USMNT World Cup
« on: May 28, 2014, 01:51:04 pm »
Very interesting match last night between the US and the Azeris. I liked that they went with a 4-4-2 Diamond...it suites this team well; they just need to get used to it. I was impressed with Wondo - he's a clear replacement for Donovan in my opinion. There were some good things about the match and bad. Generally speaking though, playing a new system, the first time together in a long time, and against a defense who simply packed-in with the idea of a 0-0 draw...they did well. They should look considerably sharper against Turkey on Sunday.
Positives: Wondo, Zusi, Cameron, Johnson, Johansson, Davis
Negatives: Bradley, Dempsey, Besler, Yedlin, Altidore
Positives: Wondo, Zusi, Cameron, Johnson, Johansson, Davis
Negatives: Bradley, Dempsey, Besler, Yedlin, Altidore
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Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Astros @ Royals - 5/28/14
« on: May 28, 2014, 01:40:50 pm »At this rate he'll hit +45 by September.
It depends on the starting date of the rate, but if you take his call-up as the starting point, he's on pace for 34 HR this year. For those wondering, the most by a rookie was McGwire with 49.
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Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Astros @ Royals May 27, 2014
« on: May 27, 2014, 05:12:38 pm »
The team has been hitting really well, but there is a question to be had going back to a thread earlier this year (and before that) regarding where to put your hitters. Given that thread, as well as the performance of the team to date, would you make any adjustments? I'm not sure I would to be honest - need to think on it a bit as they are generally hitting well. The comparison, for me at least, would be the current lineup versus something like...
Fowler
Altuve
Springer
Dominguez
Castro
...fill out the next 4 in any order...
Fowler
Altuve
Springer
Dominguez
Castro
...fill out the next 4 in any order...
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Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Astros @ Royals May 26, 2014
« on: May 26, 2014, 06:44:10 pm »Your lineups for tonight's game:
DHAlex Presley (L)
Whew. Glad the move was made to replace the platoon with a full time Grossman in LF. I mean, Presley's defense has been killing the team...all zero of his errors.
I understand the options are limited - it's just frustrating.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Oklahoma City - 2014
« on: May 26, 2014, 06:38:44 pm »Alex Freedman tweets:
Quote
Paul Clemens with another good outing. Five scoreless with 3 hits and 3 strikeouts. Now has 15 consecutive scoreless innings with OKC.
Quote
Second game for Alex White on his rehab assignment and it's another good one. Retires 6 of 7 hitters. Allows one single with one strikeout.
The pitching depth at AAA and MLB is beginning to show itself. Folty, Buchanan, Trop, Clemens, Obie, soon to be joined by Wojo. White would be in there too if he weren't destined for the MLB bully this year. The real question is which of these guys (or guys already in Houston) is ready to step up and be an ace and solid #2?
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Beer and Queso / Re: USMNT World Cup
« on: May 23, 2014, 08:10:05 pm »Either way, when you look to the bench late, I'd want to have the option of bringing on LD over, Bedoya, Mix, Green or Wondo.
I'd disagree about Wondo. Donavan's goal at the last WC is EXACTLY what Wondo is know for. He finds space and is always around the goal.
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Talk Zone / Re: Rudy Owens, come on down...
« on: May 23, 2014, 02:13:30 pm »Excellent choice.
3 starts in May 14.1 innings 27 hits 16 earned runs 1.13 ERA 2.34 WHIP
I guess Humber wasn't available.
I suspect this was more about matching the spot in the rotation than anything else. peacock isn't going on the DL, so it's a one night deal.
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Beer and Queso / Re: USMNT World Cup
« on: May 23, 2014, 09:25:10 am »I'm guessing Donovan toree it when he took the sabsatical in 2012. Klinsman said he would hsve to earn his way on and I guess he didn't. Still I agree regarding his experience.
It may also be that he has been saying publicly that he cannot train everyday. The WC is a grueling tournament, particularly in the knockouts. Coach has been focused on fitness in part due to the weather.
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Beer and Queso / Re: USMNT World Cup
« on: May 23, 2014, 02:48:13 am »Quote
The full squad:
Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)
Defenders: DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), John Brooks (Hertha Berlin), Geoff Cameron (Stoke City), Timmy Chandler (Nürnberg), Omar Gonzalez (LA Galaxy), Fabian Johnson (Borussia Mönchengladbach), DeAndre Yedlin (Seattle Sounders FC)
Midfielders: Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Nantes), Michael Bradley (Toronto FC), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Mix Diskerud (Rosenborg), Julian Green (Bayern Munich), Jermaine Jones (Besiktas), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City)
Forwards: Jozy Altidore (Sunderland), Clint Dempsey (Seattle Sounders FC), Aron Johannsson (AZ Alkmaar), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes)
No Donovan, though not entirely surprising, it seems a bit odd to not vale the experience he could have brought. When you look at the roster, it is only Julian Green and maybe Brad Davis who could have been sacrificed. He was a sub and not playing in a way to dictate a Starting XI role.
Honestly, the surprise for me was Brooks over Goodson.
378
Talk Zone / Re: Wojo and White out on rehab assignments...
« on: May 21, 2014, 01:37:27 pm »I am not a fan of the DH, but it still kills me that Carlos had a career-ending injury running the bases. So sad.
Stat line from 2001 pre-injury, at age 21:
AAA - 12-3, 3.69 ERA, 139 IP, 69 BB, 167 K
MLB - 1-0, 1.02 ERA, 17.2 IP, 5 BB, 12 K
I can't help but think he would have started instead of Mlicki in the playoffs, though it likely wouldn't have mattered.
379
Talk Zone / Re: Wojo and White out on rehab assignments...
« on: May 20, 2014, 07:58:06 pm »Carlos Hernandez are also coming back from their injuries...
I sure fucking hope so. I still have about 30 of his rookie cards and need that investment to pay off.
380
Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: White Sox @ Astros May 16, 2014
« on: May 16, 2014, 04:37:38 pm »
So close to having a lineup devoid of anyone below the Mendoza line!
381
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Oklahoma City - 2014
« on: May 13, 2014, 05:12:32 pm »They had 10,000+ at that game today in OKC.
And it took less than 2 hours to complete....speed baseball.
382
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Draft
« on: May 13, 2014, 05:10:55 pm »I don't blame him. O'Brian Ball is probably going to about as much fun to watch as the Big 10.
This should have been worked out before the draft though. Given the contract, there is absolutely no way that they can/will keep him beyond this season without a restructure. They knew they were unlikely to be in a position to get to the playoffs given the college talent and the way FA QBs fell out this year. Smith & O'Brien drafted for smash-mouth football too. At this point, the Texans options are very limited in what they can do with him - everyone is in a bad place. Surely they knew this was an issue before the weekend?!?!?
383
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: May 12, 2014, 07:19:50 pm »
Mike- On a scale of 1 to 10 how transferable are concepts from sport to sport in terms of analytics, scouting, player development, etc? To the extent that they are transferable (some may be, some may not be) could you describe why? Do the Astros or other organizations within MLB work with other professional sports organizations to refine processes or analytics?
384
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Draft
« on: May 12, 2014, 07:03:01 am »The SEC defensive player of the year didn't get drafted till the 7th round.
A great college player does not always make a great, or even good, NFL player. These guys are drafted on their potential ability in the NFL. The knock on Sam is that he is too small to play down and too slow to play up. Not sure what the knock om the big 12 guy is though. It's also one of the reasons that guys like the Baylor RB and BC RB didn't go earlier. It's a passing league and when you don't catch passes in games, that's a problem.
385
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi - 2014
« on: May 10, 2014, 11:05:05 am »Kyle Smith is having a rough adjustment to AA ball.
Yes. It usually tends to happen to straight, fastball pitchers it seems but I thought Smith had a plus curve too? Anyone seen him and why hrs getting hit hard?
386
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: May 10, 2014, 11:00:47 am »
I remember similar a pegging of Ben Zobrist.
387
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: May 10, 2014, 07:34:14 am »
If you haven't noticed Anthony Kemp's start to the season yet.....you're doing it wrong.
In the Cal League, he is 2nd in BA, 1st in OBP, 4th in OPS, 4th in SB.
In the Cal League, he is 2nd in BA, 1st in OBP, 4th in OPS, 4th in SB.
388
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Draft
« on: May 08, 2014, 07:28:11 pm »And it's CLOWNEY!!!
Locker and Henne just shit themselves
389
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans Draft
« on: May 08, 2014, 04:30:35 am »
If they can get two firsts and a 2014 second and 2015 third to swap with Atlanta I would trade down. The could get more, but that is what it would take for me....otherwise it's Clowney
390
Talk Zone / Re: is it madness to bat springer 4th
« on: May 04, 2014, 05:26:50 pm »
Straight from the horses mouth....
http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2014/05/04/porter-drops-springer-out-of-cleanup-spot-to-ease-pressure-on-rookie/#23035101=0
http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2014/05/04/porter-drops-springer-out-of-cleanup-spot-to-ease-pressure-on-rookie/#23035101=0
391
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: May 03, 2014, 09:59:14 pm »Hull - by virtue of getting into the final of the FA Cup against Arsenal, who have already qualified for the CL - plus the 3rd/4th placed teams if they lose their play-in round, go into the dreaded Europa League, where they will spend much of the year traveling around eastern Europe playing random bands of pig farmers and generally fucking up their entire season because of ridiculous travel commitments, scheduling nightmares, Russian military aggression and polonium-210 poisoning (just to list some of the non-STD-related issues).
This is a very good description of the Europa League from what I can gather.
392
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: May 03, 2014, 03:08:43 pm »
Except that it qualifies you for the Champions League which is more of a tournament that a League and more importantly worth a LOT of money to the team.
393
Beer and Queso / Re: 2016 Copa America Centenario
« on: May 03, 2014, 01:27:02 pm »Mrs Limey will be soooo pleased.
As will Aunt Charlie. It will make a world cup type experience for 3 out of the next 5 years.
Enough can't be said about what this will do for the game in the United States and for the USMNT.
394
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: May 03, 2014, 01:24:44 pm »
Tough to see my side relegated. The whole year, with the exception of the last few weeks, has been horrible. The team just did not deserve to stay up and it was evidenced today in the lack of urgency on the pitch which was perhaps exacerbated by a more than curious team selection from our third manager of the year. Hope to see Fulham back in the Premiership after a brief stay in Championship, but some of that will depend on how many players stick around as well as Khan's desire to invest in getting them back up. I think the worst thing was to have been sent down at the hands of Mark Hughes.
395
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster - 2014
« on: May 03, 2014, 03:09:07 am »
It's good to see Correa back in the box score.
396
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: May 02, 2014, 06:25:53 pm »Mike:
Thanks for clarifying what types of questions that you can answer. Everyone, myself included, needs to keep this in mind when posing your questions to Mike, who's been very gracious to us. Understand that most of the people here are rabid Astros fans who want the team to succeed in the worst way. Some of us may be growing a bit impatient.
Apologies Mike. I really was trying to ask a process type question with a secondary question about a specific player, the latter of which I was not sure you would be able to answer; I honestly wasn't attempting to get one past you in disguise. I really am interested in the process of bringing a player up - particularly highly touted players, and how that works. While Springer is one of the first, there are a line of them behind him including DDS, Appel, Correa, Folty, etc due to the well stocked system that the Astros have been able to put together. While I understand if you won't be able to answer it at this time due to the other thread and discussion around Springer, if at the right time you could tell us about the process of how that happens from a transition perspective it would be great.
Like Happy says - I and others really appreciate the time you put in here, the open communication and the insight you have been able to give to us and wish that to continue.
397
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: May 02, 2014, 04:22:28 pm »
Picking up from our Springer thread regarding batting order, you addressed decisions around promotion lay with Jeff L for the upper levels. When promoting a kid for the first time, especially one with high long term expectations, is there a discussion between the front office and manager about how to introduce (either ease or throw into deep water) him into the new level or is that left largely to the manager? For instance, a number of starting pitchers are usually promoted on the road for a start or put in the bully to adjust at the ML level. Position players historically seem to be put lower in the order with less pressure, though that wasn't what happened in Springer's case. Can you comment about the Springer situation and why he was put in the 4 hole?
398
Talk Zone / Re: is it madness to bat springer 4th
« on: May 02, 2014, 04:16:07 pm »Maybe not. But he strikes me as really pressing right now. However, he's hitting four again tonight.
I'm with Happy on this one. He just didn't need the added pressure. Many of the fans saw him as some sort of messiah coming to save the Astros season - that is a tall order that few, if any, could accomplish. Putting him lower in the order and just asking him to get good swings on the ball with low expectations sounds like a much better plan to me. That said, I'm not a manager/coach and haven't ever been at an appreciable level.
399
Talk Zone / Re: Feldman to 15 day DL
« on: May 01, 2014, 08:44:54 pm »Peacock goes back to long relief, although you could make a good argument to replace Oberholtzer.
I think you are right about Peacock headed back to long relief. I also think Valdes gets DFA's for the new signing Sipp and Fields is sent to the minors to work things out making room for Feldman on the 25-man. The bully is an absolute mess, though that is no news flash.
I sure hope Crain, Albers and Fields get their shit together...even if just two of them can.
400
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: May 01, 2014, 04:43:56 pm »
Mike, do the Astros or other organizations conduct post-draft analysis at certain time intervals to determine if things were missed or if scouting methods should be altered? This is relatively common in certain industries as an improvement process, but I'm unsure if it happens in baseball. I wouldn't think you could do a look back analysis any less than 3 years after the draft when you have a better idea of if the draft pick is maturing, but what do I know...
401
Talk Zone / Re: Feldman to 15 day DL
« on: May 01, 2014, 06:35:49 am »
It looks like Feldman will sit out one more turn. Given how Mchugh has pitched, who loses the spot in the rotation when Feldman returns?
402
Beer and Queso / Re: Real Estate Attorneys
« on: April 30, 2014, 08:25:55 pm »17.46(b)(24): failing to disclose information concerning goods or services which was known at the time of the transaction if such failure to disclose such information was intended to induce the consumer into a transaction into which the consumer would not have entered had the information been disclosed.
Not trying to hijack the thread, but this sounds roughly like what Crane is accusing Uncle Drayton of....
403
Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Athletics @ Astros April 25, 2014
« on: April 25, 2014, 10:47:59 pm »
Ugh. Ford has it right...poor execution.
404
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: April 23, 2014, 06:48:10 am »Oh, and David Moyes will not last until the end of the season.
...or apparently the day. I feel for Moyes a bit as he had some of the biggest shoes in football history to fill. He clearly had not considered that to the extent he needed to do so. Nearly anyone who tried to take Sir Alex's spot would have failed. Best of luck to the guy.
405
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Oklahoma City - 2014
« on: April 19, 2014, 09:01:30 pm »
Sure, the Ks are concerning, but he's also walking at a reasonable rate as well.
406
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Oklahoma City - 2014
« on: April 19, 2014, 08:46:32 pm »
Singleton has hit his 6th HR in 10 days. I can't imagine that Krauss has much time left.
407
Talk Zone / Re: Throwing at a guy for bunting in the 1st inning?
« on: April 19, 2014, 08:36:17 pm »Let me see if we are thinking alike on the ML quality players. Positionally: Castro, Altuve, Fowler and ? Springer hasn't earned that label yet.
Pitching: Feldman, Obie, Qualls, Albers, and ?
My original post was about Castro, Altuve, Fowler and Springer - I acknowledge that he's not been there long, but his is ML talent. On the pitching side it was Feldman, Cosart, Obie, Qualls and Albers.
408
Talk Zone / Re: Throwing at a guy for bunting in the 1st inning?
« on: April 19, 2014, 12:05:57 pm »It'll occur when the Astros get some Major League talent. Not before.
This.
He only has 4 ML quality position players and 5 ML quality pitchers. That's it.
409
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: April 15, 2014, 01:58:21 pm »Relegation Update:
Thanks for that Limey - good summary. The Cardiff win last weekend over the Saints was unwelcomed as a Fulham supporter. That said, it's great to see things so tight; it will make for an exciting last month.
410
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: April 15, 2014, 01:56:34 pm »
The FA Cup model is the one thing I think that American sports, with the exlcution of the NFL, should take a look at implementing. Having a second, parallel competition to a championship season would create a NCAA type atmosphere and give little guys additional hope for hardware. Furthermore, it requires thought as to the final stages on whether to focus on the league or the cup.
In baseball for instance, you could have short three game series. The two teams who were in the finals the year before receive byes and all else are thrown into a 5 round tournament. This is a 3 day break from the championship season in each month: April, May, June, Aug, Sept (July is skipped due to All-Star break). Players would get more days off (teams who suffer a loss early) and it would create additional playoff style excitment in Aug and Sept for the semi's and finals. Honestly, the details would need to be worked out about the length of the season, days off and pay adjustments of course, but it would certainly be exciting for the fans and players.I also like the fact that unlike the NCAA tournament, there are draws after each round for the next round's opponent...yet another event to promote for MLB.com/MLB.TV. The result is that you might get a Detroit v. LA Dodgers game in the first round while the Rockies make it to the semi-finals having only faced the Mariners, Cubs, and Twins.
In baseball for instance, you could have short three game series. The two teams who were in the finals the year before receive byes and all else are thrown into a 5 round tournament. This is a 3 day break from the championship season in each month: April, May, June, Aug, Sept (July is skipped due to All-Star break). Players would get more days off (teams who suffer a loss early) and it would create additional playoff style excitment in Aug and Sept for the semi's and finals. Honestly, the details would need to be worked out about the length of the season, days off and pay adjustments of course, but it would certainly be exciting for the fans and players.I also like the fact that unlike the NCAA tournament, there are draws after each round for the next round's opponent...yet another event to promote for MLB.com/MLB.TV. The result is that you might get a Detroit v. LA Dodgers game in the first round while the Rockies make it to the semi-finals having only faced the Mariners, Cubs, and Twins.
411
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: April 06, 2014, 04:38:42 pm »
I generally agree with you. It may only take 35 points to survive this year.
412
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: April 05, 2014, 07:41:16 pm »
Looks like Fulham have kept their chances to escape alive for one more week. Norwich on the other hand is in trouble.
413
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Oklahoma City - 2014
« on: April 05, 2014, 10:00:52 am »Holy shit. Not how you want your finger to look.
I'm not sure I would be able to tweet that myself. Too bad for him - wonder how long that will take to heal? 8 weeks?
414
Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: New York Yankees @ Houston Astros - 2 Apr 2014
« on: April 02, 2014, 09:26:50 pm »MLB.tv is about a minute behind Gameday.
Williams is about a minute behind the live action.
415
Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: New York Yankees @ Houston Astros - 2 Apr 2014
« on: April 02, 2014, 08:57:18 pm »
Cosart really labored in the 5th. From where I was sitting it looked like he couldn't get the ball down?
416
Talk Zone / Re: Brian Cashman's Ferrari
« on: April 01, 2014, 06:50:35 am »Chron article.
That's gonna make him real popular with his GM brethren.
I actually think he's right. There are plenty of people who wouldn't want to deal with "The Boss", the NY media, the egos of the field nor the fans and are quite content where they are. This is true in just about any industry I suspect.
417
Talk Zone / Re: More Cuts
« on: March 27, 2014, 08:18:08 pm »DFA LHP Raul Valdes.
A bit surprised by this...maybe they see him as a tradable asset given the final roster tweaks that are going on?
418
Talk Zone / Re: More Cuts
« on: March 23, 2014, 04:01:16 pm »Are there better options available? Maybe, maybe not, but I don't think he's as poor of an option as you think, and particularly if all you're really looking for is a place-holder for Singleton.
We'll just disagree then. I hope he proves me wrong - it wouldn't be the first time that has happened.
419
Talk Zone / Re: More Cuts
« on: March 22, 2014, 02:37:02 pm »Why, because he's got a shitty average this spring? That describes almost the entire team.
In part, but it's more the combination of his performance the last few year and the spring. Not only is it his overall performance, but also when you look at splits. I jus think there have got to be better options.
420
Talk Zone / Re: More Cuts
« on: March 22, 2014, 01:06:57 pm »Pitcture is becoming even clearer, as Downs is optioned and Amador and Petit are reassigned to minor-league camp. Also, a farewell to JD Martinez, who has been released by the club. If Carter is primarily the DH, 1B is now down to Krauss and Guzman, though they bringing in someone from the outside still is a possibility.
I can't imagine the astros going with Guzman on the OD roster. They have to be looking outside.
421
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans = Astros?
« on: March 21, 2014, 04:44:22 pm »If Schaub's picks drove you nuts, wait til you get a load of Fitzpatrick. He's an interception throwing machine.
Yes, he is...I've frustratingly watched him the last to years because of receivers he was throwing to were on my team. The differnece is he is making $4 MM per year and is likely a back-up or bridge while Schaub was a starter getting $10+ per year.
422
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans = Astros?
« on: March 21, 2014, 01:04:04 pm »That $4 million in savings is taken up by Fitzpatrick.Yup. Plus they get a pick. Not sure it's a bad deal, but at least they got something for Pick Six. Plus, I like the idea of eating the full amount of dead money this year instead of a June 1 option. They aren't going to be a playoff team this year, but they're trying to re-load quickly.
423
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans = Astros?
« on: March 21, 2014, 09:12:01 am »
That's right - all this year. But they will still save ~$4 MM this year with the transaction....so they'll be back at ~$10 MM of cap space.
424
Talk Zone / Re: The Rotation
« on: March 21, 2014, 02:05:48 am »Which is why I am hoping for Peacock & Keuchel ... at least there is some potential for improvement with more opportunity.
I wonder how Harrel's lack of options fits into the equation. He's pitched relatively well save one outing. Maybe a trade? Or he gets the nod ahead of Keuchel?
425
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2014 draft thread
« on: March 18, 2014, 10:05:49 pm »
I know the Astros traded for the O's competitive balance DP, but why didn't the 'stros get one on their own based on revenue? Surely they were in the bottom 10 of revenue last year?
426
Talk Zone / Re: We now know who the Astros starter on OD will be...
« on: March 18, 2014, 02:24:06 pm »my Phillies friend said they would like to give him away. isn't he an OF?
I thought so too.
427
Talk Zone / Re: We now know who the Astros starter on OD will be...
« on: March 18, 2014, 01:11:35 pm »
But we may not know who the starter at 1B will be...
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2014/03/astros-inquiring-on-first-basemen.html
I've gotta say, Mayberry and Moore certainly aren't players worth giving up any real talent for in my opinion.
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2014/03/astros-inquiring-on-first-basemen.html
I've gotta say, Mayberry and Moore certainly aren't players worth giving up any real talent for in my opinion.
428
Beer and Queso / Re: Malaysia Airlines MH370 missing
« on: March 15, 2014, 06:40:12 am »
Not only that, they are suggesting that "Stan" region could be the final destination (ie Pakistan). Malasia PM basically insisting that they, along with international authorities, have certainty that the airplane was compromised.
429
Talk Zone / Re: Projected Lineup/Depth Chart
« on: March 09, 2014, 08:23:18 am »http://houston.astros.mlb.com/team/depth_chart/?c_id=hou
Is Jesus Guzman really the leading candidate to play 1st base?
Those players won't be on the chart at to start the season; the first cuts have been made with no real surprises:
From the club:
RHP Jake Buchanan, RHP Bobby Doran, OF Leo Heras, IF Jonathan Meyer, C Ryan McGurdy, RHP Jason Stoffel, IF Ronald Torreyes, RHP Nick Tropeano and OF Preston Tucker were reassigned to minor league camp. RHP Paul Clemens was optioned to minor league camp.
430
Talk Zone / Re: Spring TV Schedule
« on: March 08, 2014, 12:10:32 pm »
Weird, MLB is telling me the Astros are on via the channel guide, but instead they are having a show about the 86 LCS?!?!
Anyone else having the same issue?
Anyone else having the same issue?
431
Beer and Queso / Re: USMNT World Cup
« on: March 06, 2014, 05:34:58 am »
I guess we can only take solace in knowing that only 3 of the outfield players who played are expected to be starters and most of the team in the Ukraine won't even make the final roster. It was pitiful. I hi nestle cannot think of one bright spot.
They'll announce the prep matches today for May and June I understand, all in the US.
They'll announce the prep matches today for May and June I understand, all in the US.
432
Beer and Queso / Re: USMNT World Cup
« on: March 04, 2014, 09:06:40 pm »Didn't we just cancel the friendly with the Ukraine?No; it was moved to Cyprus
433
Beer and Queso / USMNT World Cup
« on: March 04, 2014, 11:27:36 am »
The WC is only three months away so I thought we'd start a thread (especially ahead of the final preparation match in the Ukraine). There have been some interesting developments, and I suspect there will continue to be such developments:
1. How does the movement of Bradley, Dempsey, Jones and EJ impact the WC preparation?
2. Dempsey was not at his best when joining Seattle and failed to really show any impact on loan at Fulham (much to my dismay) - is he just adjusting or has he lost a step?
3. Will Jozy's lack of goals at Sunderland impact his preparation?
Lastly, I've got to say that I like the new US shirt, but as somthing to wear on a Satruday afternoon, not on the pitch. They got the centenial kit perfect and then deliver this...ugh. http://www.ussoccer.com/news/mens-national-team/2014/03/140303-new-kit.aspx
1. How does the movement of Bradley, Dempsey, Jones and EJ impact the WC preparation?
2. Dempsey was not at his best when joining Seattle and failed to really show any impact on loan at Fulham (much to my dismay) - is he just adjusting or has he lost a step?
3. Will Jozy's lack of goals at Sunderland impact his preparation?
Lastly, I've got to say that I like the new US shirt, but as somthing to wear on a Satruday afternoon, not on the pitch. They got the centenial kit perfect and then deliver this...ugh. http://www.ussoccer.com/news/mens-national-team/2014/03/140303-new-kit.aspx
434
Game Zone 2014 Archive / Re: Astros @ Marlins March 3, 2014
« on: March 03, 2014, 03:31:06 pm »Love the fact that Springer has walked 3 times so far and has played well in the field.
Ended up with 4 walks. He now owns a very odd slash line of .333/.750/.333.
435
Talk Zone / Re: MLBAM - Route Efficiency
« on: March 01, 2014, 12:43:43 pm »Jim Edmonds, 12% route efficiency.... is my guess, on the high side.only to be challenged by Pence
436
Talk Zone / Re: Listening to the Braves/Tigers game right now
« on: February 28, 2014, 05:27:51 am »
I'm just happy that today we'll be listening to our favorite club. It's been too long.
437
Beer and Queso / Re: 30 for 30
« on: February 22, 2014, 07:27:50 am »
Did anyone see "The Deal" 30-30 short? It's always interesting to me how deals get made (both in sports and other industries).
438
Beer and Queso / Re: Learn me something
« on: February 15, 2014, 12:17:17 pm »
+1 on Churchill museum
If you'd like a nice countryside experience with a bit of local tourism (more English than not), check out Heaver Castle.
If you'd like a nice countryside experience with a bit of local tourism (more English than not), check out Heaver Castle.
439
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: February 01, 2014, 08:56:49 am »
Really happy about Fulham's January window. Hope it's enough to save my side from relegation. Mitroglou and Holtby should make for a more potent attack, but I still worry about our left back situation. There is a reason my other sides attack down that side and have for about 2 years.
IN: Mitroglou, Heitinga, Holtby, Dempsey, Kvist, Tunnicliffe and Larnell Cole....
OUT: Senderos, Hughes, Ruiz and Berbatov.
IN: Mitroglou, Heitinga, Holtby, Dempsey, Kvist, Tunnicliffe and Larnell Cole....
OUT: Senderos, Hughes, Ruiz and Berbatov.
440
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: January 20, 2014, 04:56:23 pm »
Mike- as we get into spring training, who from the last draft class should we be watching?
441
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fangraphs Astros Top 10 Prospects
« on: January 17, 2014, 06:57:09 pm »Singleton was named #1 first base prospect in all of baseball by MLBPipeline (that's Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo).
Upcoming of note, MLBPipeline will announce their top 100 prospects list next Thursday and on Monday Baseball America will announce their Astros top 10 prospects list.
Correa was #3 for SS
Appel was #6 for RHP
Expect Springer to be near the top of the OF, which comes out next week.
442
Talk Zone / Re: New Instant Replay Rules
« on: January 16, 2014, 08:37:21 pm »
What is a timing play?
443
Talk Zone / Re: Questions for Mike Fast
« on: January 14, 2014, 04:24:37 pm »
Do you ever travel with the team? If so, what would prompt that versus doing the work from headquarters?
444
Talk Zone / Re: What do you think of this idea of a tiered HOF?
« on: January 14, 2014, 02:23:53 pm »
Meh. They are either HoFers or they aren't.
445
Beer and Queso / Re: Winter Weather Woes
« on: January 06, 2014, 08:19:16 am »
Good luck up there and stay warm.
Temps here in Dallas this morning are 15 to 16 degrees. My brother's town in MN is -20 with a windchill of -44. I can't imagine how cold that must be for folks to endure.
Temps here in Dallas this morning are 15 to 16 degrees. My brother's town in MN is -20 with a windchill of -44. I can't imagine how cold that must be for folks to endure.
446
Beer and Queso / Re: Vacationing with other couples
« on: January 03, 2014, 12:51:01 pm »
We're renting a house near Orient Bay. I think we'll try the one car and then upscale to two if we need to do it. Cabs do look very expensive and bikes/scooters are not recommended evidetly. Cab rates are for 2 people, but there are all sorts of "extras" they pile on.
HH - I hate to dash your dreams, but no.
HH - I hate to dash your dreams, but no.
447
Talk Zone / Re: HOF vote watch
« on: January 03, 2014, 12:47:31 pm »
Here's what my ballot would be...what would your's look like?
Maddux
Glavine
Thomas
Biggio
Piazza
Bagwell
Bonds
Clemens
L. Smith
McGwire
Maddux
Glavine
Thomas
Biggio
Piazza
Bagwell
Bonds
Clemens
L. Smith
McGwire
448
Beer and Queso / Re: Vacationing with other couples
« on: January 02, 2014, 04:17:49 pm »
It's St. Martn's. Nice sized island. Taxi's are available, but expensive. I understand that a trip from the hotel to the airport would cover a day's rental of a car.
I like the idea of renting a bike. Since half the island is dutch, I'm sure those have to be available.
I like the idea of renting a bike. Since half the island is dutch, I'm sure those have to be available.
449
Beer and Queso / Vacationing with other couples
« on: January 02, 2014, 02:06:02 pm »
So my wife and I are headed to an island vacation with another couple to celebrate several things. We've rented a house so that we are not running into each other too much and assume that we will spend more than half, but not all, of the 3-4 days together. Quick question for those who have done similar - did you each rent cars to have personal freedom or did you share?
On one hand, sharing would save on money and not risk getting broken up when we go places together (dinner, beaches, shopping, etc) but on the other if the girls want to go shopping while the guys go diving or the couples want to go grab a quiet lunch it limits access other than with expensive cabs.
Thoughts?
On one hand, sharing would save on money and not risk getting broken up when we go places together (dinner, beaches, shopping, etc) but on the other if the girls want to go shopping while the guys go diving or the couples want to go grab a quiet lunch it limits access other than with expensive cabs.
Thoughts?
450
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: January 02, 2014, 10:42:03 am »Spurs beat United 2-1 at Old Trafford. I wonder how much patience United will have with Moyes.
I didn't have a chance to watch the match but read about the complaints for a penalty in United's favor towards the end of the match. Is there merit to the complaints?
451
Beer and Queso / Re: Texas bowl teams
« on: December 31, 2013, 11:57:11 pm »
Geez, the Aggie defense is epically bad. That said, they came up with one spectacular stop/score tonight.
452
Beer and Queso / Re: Christmas Movies
« on: December 31, 2013, 09:03:59 am »Wolf of wall street better.
By a long shot. So much debauchery that it was disgusting, but I guess it was reality. Fantastic movie though that couples funny moments with serious ones. Though this is by far the longest movie I've seen in a while it felt like it was the right length and didn't have many slow periods.
453
Beer and Queso / Re: Christmas Movies
« on: December 30, 2013, 07:16:24 am »Why would you walk out 80 minutes in?
Because there was still nearly an hour left that I didn't want to see. Had there not been a packed theater and such great reviews, I would have pulled the plug around the 45-50 min mark, but we decided to give it another 30 mins.
454
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans at Titans
« on: December 29, 2013, 11:01:45 pm »That said, I still think with a competent QB and right tackle, and they win 10 games and are in the hunt.
Matthews at #1 if they can't trade down?
455
Beer and Queso / Christmas Movies
« on: December 29, 2013, 11:26:29 am »
Wondering if anyone has seen any of the big Christmas movies? We're going to see Wolves of Wall Street sometime this week. I've heard Anchorman isn't all that good and we watched American Hustle last night (sort of).
I know a lot of folks really liked American Hustle, but my wife and I just couldn't get into it. The acting was good, but it just seemed to move too slow. We walked out at roughly the 80 minute mark. I hear it picked up towards the end a bit, but we were thinking about leaving at the 45-50 minute mark and tried to give it a bit more time. I'm glad to hear others liked it though.
I know a lot of folks really liked American Hustle, but my wife and I just couldn't get into it. The acting was good, but it just seemed to move too slow. We walked out at roughly the 80 minute mark. I hear it picked up towards the end a bit, but we were thinking about leaving at the 45-50 minute mark and tried to give it a bit more time. I'm glad to hear others liked it though.
456
Talk Zone / Re: Tanaka Sweepstakes
« on: December 25, 2013, 10:47:38 am »So is it $20 million just to bid, or does the winning bidder (and only that bidder) get a $20 million surcharge?
The latter.
457
Talk Zone / Re: FA Signings
« on: December 25, 2013, 12:50:04 am »
It seems the Golden Eagles have reversed their decision and Tanaka will be posted.
458
Talk Zone / Re: Tim Redding now a coach
« on: December 22, 2013, 07:33:18 pm »Just announced as the pitching coach for the Washinton Nationals' affiliate Auburn in the NYP league.
Mind. Blown.
459
Beer and Queso / Re: WWBBD?
« on: December 22, 2013, 07:32:39 pm »Yeah, that was my first thought, actually.
+1
I consider myself pretty conservative in nature, but I really wonder when G&L's are going to realize that a vast majority of us don't really give a fuck if you are gay or straight. I'm much more concerned on your ability to do your job (if I'm paying you to do something, including entertaining me as an athlete) and generally be a good person (especially if you're an acquaintance or friend).
460
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: December 22, 2013, 07:24:41 pm »The whole build from the back was pretty. I think it was a total of five touches from taking it out of their defensive end until it went in the net.+1
462
Talk Zone / Re: Astros have an offer out on Choo?
« on: December 18, 2013, 06:48:01 pm »
The Yanks offer to him was generous. Too bad neither he, nor Boras, recognized it.
463
Beer and Queso / Re: Broncos at Texans
« on: December 18, 2013, 06:41:33 pm »Keenum out. Matt Schaub to start.
In all fairness, we've been able to confirm that Keenum is likely a back-up in the NFL and that statistically, Pick-Six isn't that far off.
464
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: December 16, 2013, 09:15:32 pm »And... Tottenham sack Andre Villas-Boas. Merry Christmas!
Didn't really see that one coming. Seems the chairman was looking for an excuse to fire him...just wonder why ?
465
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans at colts
« on: December 16, 2013, 01:19:53 pm »It still makes no sense to me. You have a touchdown lead, 2nd and 6 with 2 minutes and change, and GB down to one time out. You run the fucking ball.
Exactly. They only had 1 time out. So what if you only get back to the LOS...you force them to burn their last time out. This is as fundamental as letting a runner score from 3rd while turning a double play when you're up by 2 in the 9th. It's dead fucking simple. That said, it made my Monday morning drive more enjoyable and helps me to get through the rest of the Texan's season.
Also, where the fuck was the defense? You gave up 34 points...in the 2nd half! You can't do that.
This defense is historical in its ineptitude. I still cannot believe that they canned Rob Ryan when the guy to be canned was Garrett. And for God sake's Garrett, get a bit emotional and call some folks out.
466
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans at colts
« on: December 16, 2013, 07:57:28 am »
The silver lining to my 2013-14 NFL fan experience as a Texan fan is listening to Dallas radio on Monday mornings. It's often the highlight of my NFL week.
467
Talk Zone / Re: FA Signings
« on: December 14, 2013, 10:38:41 am »
And I'm quickly coming around to believing the Bourn trade was not Wade's biggest blunder. The Gose for Wallace flip will likely be that
Gose certainly hasn't set the world on fire.
468
Talk Zone / Re: FA Signings
« on: December 14, 2013, 06:15:07 am »
From my math (and the obligations and historical spend from Cot's Contracts website), it seems that Lunhow &CO have about $10-15 MM left to spend base on the $30 MM payroll increase concept mentioned by several executives going into the winter period. Most recently they have said that they're only looking for two players: 1B and a closer type. Given what's on the market, other than a closer type, I hope they keep the money. No sense spending it on a 1B player type we already have in Carter or Wallace. I also cannot see giving up a pick and cash for Morales.
469
Beer and Queso / Re: Obamacare roll-out and impact
« on: December 12, 2013, 11:52:54 am »Huh?
You know how this works, right? People go to an exchange, where they shop for healthcare products and, once they've decided which to buy, they are connected to that insurer to sign up and pay.
Poor reporting. The reporter assumes that everyone who "selected" has paid. That's not how it works. People using the exchange have effectively 5 steps:
1. Sign Up for the website
2. Receive plan offers
3. Select a plan
4. Pay for the plan
5. Recieve benefits for the plan (roughly 2 weeks later)
Steps 1-3 are free. Note that in the article, the one piece of data directly sourced (the graph) says "Selected". The problem is the rubber meets the road at step 4 where people have to separate themselves from their money to gain access to the plan. I can go select a car on a lot and tell the manager I will buy it, but until I give him cash, I cannot drive off the lot with it.
470
Talk Zone / Re: Proposal to ban home plate collisions advances
« on: December 12, 2013, 09:49:38 am »
Personally don't have a problem with it. It's probably the most dangerous play in sports. A guy standing still, watching a ball come into his mitt, while another guy is barreling down on him with the knowledge that touching the plate isn't important in the first instance, but dislodging the ball is the most crtiical. If he does that, touching the plate right after it is easy. It puts the catcher in a position to shorten his year and/or career. Make the guy slide.
471
Beer and Queso / Re: Obamacare roll-out and impact
« on: December 12, 2013, 04:52:47 am »800,000 of which is Medicaid. Free medicine, free doctors, free nurses (oh yeah), free hospitals and the best part is that those greedy, selfish, rich assholes have to pay for it - every single penny.
...and the remainder have selected, but not necessarily paid. That's where the proof will be in the pudding.
472
Beer and Queso / Re: Ice storm
« on: December 09, 2013, 11:52:18 am »But the chicks on pay-per-view are hot, amiright?
I'm sure they are but my the venue of my overnight stay may have changed had I looked at it given the 10 year old and 6 year old in the room. Not to mention, I couldn't even imagine the penance I would receive at my next confession.
Edited to note that power is back on this morning. Thank goodness..
473
Beer and Queso / Re: Ice storm
« on: December 08, 2013, 12:03:50 pm »I keep meaning to ask: is there any special significance to the Hellcat in your avatar? I love those planes, along with F4Us and many others.
Impressed that you recognize the plane. Short story is that I have a private pilots license, love WWII, and the Hellcat is my favorite combination of those. I would live to fly one someday!!
Update on power - still none though Oncore promises 11p tonight. They have yet to keep a time promise yet though, so I'm not hopeful. We stayed in a hotel last night so it was a nice reprieve. Trying to decide what we do tonight.
The experience has given me a much better perspective on life without electricity (we rediscovered family board game fun), the plight of the homeless in winter (though I'm not close to that the cold and uneasiness about the near future is physically and mentally draining), and how to survive in small spaces with a family or four plus 2 dogs.
474
Beer and Queso / Re: Ice storm
« on: December 07, 2013, 08:38:35 pm »I have a buddy in the exact same situation as you. He just booked at the Omni, if you're looking around.
Thanks. We're downtown as well. It seems several of my friends in the same situation bailed as well tonight.
We did have a casualty this morning. Our Beta seems to have died due to the cold water.
475
Beer and Queso / Re: Ice storm
« on: December 07, 2013, 01:20:20 pm »Do you actually live in Dallas U.C.? I guess you do based on the marathon route. I am in McKinney and we have kept our power. Underground utilities. Roads are very bad in north Collin County of course. Went to the grocery this a.m. and it was like a ghost town. People are thankfully staying in. Seems a little early for this crap.
Yes, m streets. We just received notification that power is expected to return about 1p tomorrow. It's currently 45 downstairs and 38 upstairs. Going to a hotel now...screw this.
476
Beer and Queso / Ice storm
« on: December 07, 2013, 06:10:20 am »
Nearly 24 hours now without power here in Dallas. The house is 52 degrees according to the thermostat. It seems Dallas got hit pretty hard. There are tons of tree and/or major limbs down and Oncor is saying power is likely to be restored for most customers by late Sunday. Oh, and the Dallas Marathon, which is scheduled to come by our house, is Sunday morning.
Any other Dallas folks on the board affected?
Any other Dallas folks on the board affected?
477
Beer and Queso / Re: kubiak fired
« on: December 06, 2013, 11:33:31 am »
Not dancing on anyone's grave here, but it was time to move on for fuck sake. Everyone knew it was going to happen...keeping him was becoming a credibility issue.
478
Beer and Queso / Re: World Cup Draw Today (11am CST)
« on: December 06, 2013, 11:31:43 am »Germany, Ghana, and Portugal.
To be the best you have to beat the best, but ugh...these will be 3 very tough matches. The back line better be in shape.
479
Beer and Queso / Re: Toilet Bowl
« on: December 06, 2013, 06:39:55 am »
It's clear that Kubs is going down with the ship. Saying that Pick-Six is a pro's pro and that he was just trying to make a play when he threw the interception. ANYONE who saw that play live know that was a terrible play, not a guy trying to make something happen. Pick-Six never saw the linebacker. His confidence and skill set are virtually gone. Keenum is a back-up and Pick-Six has shown himself to be no better than that...either statistically or in watching him. The problem is, he doesn't make a back-ups salary. Kubs has lost all sense of reality.
480
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: December 01, 2013, 07:56:15 pm »
Our chairman finally sacked Jol. One one hand I feel for the man, but on the other his stubborn ways and tactical decisions led to some poor results. I'll tell you one thing, I hope K. Richardson doesn't take the pitch again in the Fulham colors. He's epically terrible.
481
Beer and Queso / Obamacare roll-out and impact
« on: November 30, 2013, 06:03:58 pm »
Needless to say, the roll-out has been less than what the Dems have been expecting. Most of the folks I know have employer healthcare, so I have only found two people I know well enough to ask about how their experience has been:
1. Late 30's unemployed un married male with good health history. His premiums went up about 80% and now has higher deductibles. He's considering paying the tax.
2. Early 70's retired male unmarked with mixed health history (multiple hip replacements but otherwise healthy). His premiums were comparable, but only one of the docs he uses will accept the new carrier. He still hasn't decided what do to. He's upset about the decision to be made and is clearly conflicted (big Dem) about what he thinks of the law.
Does anyone here have any experiences or knowledge of them?
1. Late 30's unemployed un married male with good health history. His premiums went up about 80% and now has higher deductibles. He's considering paying the tax.
2. Early 70's retired male unmarked with mixed health history (multiple hip replacements but otherwise healthy). His premiums were comparable, but only one of the docs he uses will accept the new carrier. He still hasn't decided what do to. He's upset about the decision to be made and is clearly conflicted (big Dem) about what he thinks of the law.
Does anyone here have any experiences or knowledge of them?
482
Beer and Queso / Re: Which was more surprising?
« on: November 30, 2013, 07:38:16 am »that didn't surprise me; we're terribly overrated/over ranked.
The defense is terrible. I was at a the Miss St game and remember the guy next to me asking how many stops did I think it would take to out score them. Everyone in aggieland know that this defense is terrible.
483
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans vs. Jags
« on: November 25, 2013, 10:10:12 am »Your last sentence is why Kubiak will finish the season. They're not going to be able to find the permanent coach in the last few weeks. McNair is oblivious anyway.
I didn't say a permanent head coach - not even a coach at all. When they fire Kubs they can elevate Wade Phillips to that interim role. They need to have someone who will be around to evaluate the talent and has a meaningful say on their jobs next year. A "special assistant" to McNair, or some crap like that...don't care what you call it. Not someone interested in the permanent job, but talented in scouting players and providing an evaluation. Some names that, in my uneducated mind, could potentially do that are Tony Dungy, Lovie Smith, and Jon Gruden. I'm sure that there are others, but I'm generally ignorant on who are good talent evaluators and who are not (not to mention who would be available).
484
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans vs. Jags
« on: November 25, 2013, 08:22:57 am »
So does Kubiak last the day? I cannot think of a reason why he should. The team has given up on him. These guys need to have someone in charge who will have some say in whether they have a job next year.
485
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans - Cardinals
« on: November 12, 2013, 04:25:51 pm »That's not groundbreaking strategy.
Sadly, to some it is...
486
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans - Cardinals
« on: November 10, 2013, 09:55:36 pm »
They're playing four deep prevent giving you the middle of the field...I know, let's throw three bombs at the sideline.
The one bomb to Hopkins was uncalled for, but the 3rd and 3 had to be a mis-read. There were two guys open over the middle.
487
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans - Colts
« on: November 04, 2013, 12:58:14 pm »I like Keenum...I want to see him do well. But he's a long way from showing he's the "answer".
I do too, but my worry is that his upside is Tony Romo. Romo is a "good" QB, but not a guy that can take a team to the promised land. In a QB-driven league there are the haves and the have nots. Occasionally you see someone bust through with a good run (Dilfer, maybe even Kaep)...but more often than not it leads to year in and year out battlng for the WC spots and an occasional 1st round playoff win.
488
Beer and Queso / Jonathan Martin
« on: November 01, 2013, 09:53:50 pm »
Anyone following thus story? I honestly cannot think of an analogy in the pros. There isn't much in the way of information out there other than rumors, but it sure will be interesting to see how the five key stakeholders (NFL, NFLPA, Dolphins brass, Dolphins teammates and Martin) ultimately deal with this issue. I wonder if he'll ever play again.
489
Talk Zone / Re: CSN Bankruptcy
« on: October 28, 2013, 07:55:09 pm »David Barron @dfbarron 1h
Most of this afternoon's CSNH hearing discussion involves offers and counteroffers between NBC, DirecTV and others in 2012-13.
David Barron @dfbarron 1h
These figures are not being made available for viewing on the courtroom screens because NBC/Comcast demands that they be kept secret.
Protecting themselves during any future carriage negotiations?
That and trying to not piss of their customers.
Love Barron's PBP.
490
Beer and Queso / Re: EPL on NBC in 2013
« on: October 28, 2013, 01:44:41 pm »
Happy to see Sunderland with a result this weekend. Nice layoff by Altidore, though in not so sure that was his plan.
491
Talk Zone / Re: Astrodome auction
« on: October 28, 2013, 01:33:38 pm »
Considering taking the day off and driving down from Dallas. At this point in the year, I'm looking for reasons to take days off or else I'll lose them on Jan 1. That said, I'm not sure the jumbotron will fit in the back of the truck, or the man cave.
492
Game Zone 2013 Archive / Re: The Playoffs
« on: October 18, 2013, 09:14:13 pm »
Gear catch by Beltran.
493
Beer and Queso / Re: Why Texans?
« on: October 15, 2013, 07:30:20 pm »Of course, the change could just as easily be the firing of Phillips because the defense gave up 30+ points the last two weeks.
Not that the defense has been great, but they hardly have been solely responsible for the points pile up. They cannot run onto the field to stop the return of a turnover. That said, they need to create turnovers and quit commuting dumb penalties.
494
Game Zone 2013 Archive / Re: The Playoffs
« on: October 13, 2013, 10:59:16 pm »The red sox can't seem to get a hit off any tigers starter and Verlander hasn't even pitched yet.
It seems they were waiting for the bully tonight. I think the Tigers still win the ALCS though.
496
Talk Zone / Re: Game Over, Season Over
« on: September 29, 2013, 10:10:50 pm »
It couldn't end soon enough. I've loved baseball all my life. I still play plenty of denial league ball....but this is the first year that I lost interest in the major league club. If Crane and Lunhow don't care about winning at that level, why should I care about following them. To be clear, it's not that they weren't winning, it's that ownership didn't really seem to care if they did. They focused on the minors and so did I. It's the only thing that got me through as a fan this year. That said, I fear the same thing will happen next year.
497
Talk Zone / Re: CSN Bankruptcy
« on: September 29, 2013, 10:06:08 pm »Free agency is going to be a tricky thing to manage. If you believe that you have guys coming up that will be ready in a year or two, you don't want to block them with a FA on, say, a 4-year deal (unless you can get them on a contract that will let you trade them when their replacement is ready). And I doubt that there are many free agents worth hiring that will entertain a one- or two-year contract.
I disagree with this mentality. Sign a few FAs and help the team to avoid becoming a team with a culture of losing. If the kids in the minors are good enough, they will push the FAs out. It also doesn't guarantee them a spot...they have to fight for it. If you have a block situation, make a trade to strengthen yourself elsewhere or replenish the minors.
498
Beer and Queso / Re: US-Mexico
« on: September 13, 2013, 10:38:40 pm »
It will change of course, but if I had to guess the lineup today:
Altidore
Donovan-Dempsey-Bedoya
Jones-Bradley
Johnson-Besler-Gonzalez-Evans
Howard
Bench:
EJ
johannsson
Diskerud
Beckerman
Zusi
Cameron
Shea
Goodson
Parkhurst
Beasley
Guzan
Rimando
Altidore
Donovan-Dempsey-Bedoya
Jones-Bradley
Johnson-Besler-Gonzalez-Evans
Howard
Bench:
EJ
johannsson
Diskerud
Beckerman
Zusi
Cameron
Shea
Goodson
Parkhurst
Beasley
Guzan
Rimando
499
Beer and Queso / Re: US-Costa Rica
« on: September 07, 2013, 08:56:21 am »Fucking Altodore gets an entirely unnecessary yellow card in stoppage time, and he'll miss the Mexico game on Tuesday. What a fucking moron.
That kind of mental let down really pisses me off. For Mexico no Belser, Cameron, Altidore and likely no Bradley (ankle).
I really thought they would score in the second half - you could feel it coming....then that very unlucky counter. That said, it showed just how athletic Belser is...most Center Backs can't compete with that speed and would have tackled the guy outside the box and been red carded.
500
Beer and Queso / Texans Roster
« on: August 31, 2013, 05:09:45 pm »
Some surprises on the roster with 4 UDFAs making the squad. This may end up being a tough draft having lost 3 of the picks to IR.