Messages

1

Talk Zone / Re: More controversy

« on: November 22, 2019, 04:36:38 pm »

Behold the jomboy, obsessing over his hated Astros because they bitch slap his skanky yankees out of the postseason every time they meet. ALtuve's walk off homerun to crush yankee fan's dreams, priceless.  This IS, not was, the best Astros team and you lived to see it, dear contemporaries. Enjoy all the hate coming from Dallas. Fuck dallas sports fan. Don't give a shit about how the national press interprets this team. SURE...Hate that we hired Osuna, and Footer can cover herself in all the purple braclets she wants and still love the ASTROS (and footer). Hate the beyond inept way mangement other than Hinch handled Taubman. Love our Astros. Hate that they've been exposed cheating in a way that is not quiety accepted. Love yuli and his pina hair, MVP Bregman, SPRINGER!, EL adorable altuve, old man Verlander playing cy younger than his years, zack at every press confrence, and every other Astro who kept wearing an Astros hat after game seven. And even a very special thank you to wade miley for 5 great months of service.Respect and admire Hinch. Grateful to Luhnow for his brilliant work. And grateful to Crane who made it all possible. The last three years have been incredible. Don't believe for a moment all the good days are behind the Astros. Toro's hr, two nohitters and one near miss. Bregs near MVP season. Yordan's upper deck bomb and ROY! And loosing game seven after leading most the game. Man, that hurt, but now my boys know the pain of being a fan. Fuck! what a season. Love this team. And hey, mike fiers, total douchebag. My astros cup runnneth over with joy.

2

Talk Zone / Re: An Astro meets a President

« on: November 07, 2019, 11:21:13 am »

Did he get his breasts caressed like Suzuki did?

No. Well, i sure hope not.

3

Talk Zone / An Astro meets a President

« on: November 06, 2019, 06:44:34 pm »

Walking through the breakroom and see on the television an uncomfortable looking Urquidy in an office with the President of Mexico. Glad Urquidy is getting some love in his native land. So impressed with how he handled himself in the World Series, and hoping he gets a chance to repeat wearing Astros orange. Viva Urquidy!

4

Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5

« on: October 31, 2019, 10:10:49 am »

I can't make a distinction betwen asshat and boras hat. Cole choosing to wear that fucking hat
 immediately after the game was classless, and completely out of keeping with the rest of his career as an Astro. Makes it easier to say goodbye, which may be the point.

5

Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy

« on: October 30, 2019, 04:10:19 pm »

Well, we can't say our President has never done anything for us, as it looks like this is going to be aremembered nationally as the Donald Trump Series instead of the Brandon Taubman Series...

Who is brandon taubman?
Go Astros.

6

Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy

« on: October 27, 2019, 11:33:23 am »

Possibly his career?  He was in line to be a big league general manager in the next 5-10 years....millions of dollars per year in a high profile gig.  He's now relegated to promotions director at some Independent League team in Bumfuck, Nebraska.

I think the desire to hire a baseball executive with taubman's experience in the elite baseball organization outwieghs the minimal reputational costs. Taubman was unknkown to the general public before his outburst. Another mlb team will pick him up this winter.

7

Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy

« on: October 22, 2019, 05:12:06 pm »

Glad you know what no one else does. Ivory tower judgmental bullshit.

My bad for opening this thread. I am going to the game.

You do a better job unnecessarily defending osuna than taubman, but with similar results.

8

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 6, October 19, 2019

« on: October 19, 2019, 08:50:01 pm »

Ole Jose!

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9

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 6, October 19, 2019

« on: October 19, 2019, 08:26:26 pm »

Purple drank indeed. Fuck.

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10

Talk Zone / Re: Rotation Games 4.5.6.7

« on: October 18, 2019, 04:27:35 pm »

While I agree with you, I’m just repeating what I heard.

He alluded to Cole “demanding the ball.”


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Which will be given to Cole--to end, or start a series in Houston. Richard justice is himself, fake news.

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11

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: October 18, 2019, 04:20:23 pm »

In other news, there's no truth to the story that Mick Mulvaney's press conference today consisted entirely of him stand at the podium, looking confused, with one hand full of toothpaste and the other holding an empty tube.

LOL. Which would be less strange than what he actually did.

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12

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: October 18, 2019, 04:14:56 pm »

People who were all over this, criticizing the Bidens for nepotism:

Donald Trump Jr.
Rand Paul
Megan McCain
Ronna Romney McDaniel

That is a funny fucking list. I guess irony is not a concept taught at elite private schools for especially deserving scions and heirs.

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13

Talk Zone / Re: Greinke

« on: October 18, 2019, 03:34:38 pm »

I assume there are other connections, but the son of his longtime hitting instructor and friend is autistic.

Doubt Bregman needs much motivation to be a mensch. So glad he's an Astro.

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14

Talk Zone / Re: Greinke

« on: October 18, 2019, 02:11:26 pm »

Great story about your family dinner table convo. Maybe the astros front office gets in front of this and does a little training on how to have a more interesting interaction with ZG. As funny as the interactions have been, i'd love to hear a competant journalist engage him.

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15

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: October 18, 2019, 01:55:05 pm »

Lara Trump defends her father in law's withdrawal because, according to her, most people would have to google to find out who the Kurds are.

The old 'I'm an ignorant fuckwit and you're likely an ignorant fuckwit so it's ok to leave our allies to certain slaughter' foreign policy argument.

Trump isnt the first U.S. president to sell out the kurds. Doubt they were too offended or surprised. Already made nice with Assad. Suprised even lara trump makes such a stupid excuse. Kurds have been in the news consistantly since we invaded Iraq.

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16

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: October 18, 2019, 01:49:57 pm »

Surreal to read trump's boys attacking hunter biden over nepotism. Think trump and biden are both done. Wonder what's coming next.

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17

Talk Zone / Re: Greinke

« on: October 18, 2019, 12:53:53 pm »

It's like the reporters have never encountered or considered how to interview a neurodivergent person.  Asking two simple questions would typically give them the responses they crave so much:

1) Is there anything you'd like to tell me about the game today?  Risk there is a simple answer of "no" may be the outcome.  But, just as easily, they'd get a stream of consciousness response with tons of nuggets.  Or,

2) What is interesting to you lately?  It's a great question to get someone on the spectrum or who suffers with any number of anxiety disorders to information dump in areas that are interesting to them.  A great way get a peek into their thoughts and thought processes.  The risk there is he may info dump on Starbucks, or hitting or peanut butter cups or butterflies or Princess Bride or any of the things Greinke is known to be interested in but there is also usually really interesting things to write about in there too.

The longterm upside is interest-based trust is developed over time, which promotes more openness and transparency.

That's brilliant das. Do you have people in your life on the spectrum?

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18

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 3, October 15, 2019

« on: October 18, 2019, 10:30:14 am »

I think you could make a case for saying that was the best he’s pitched all year. He had to work his butt off without his best stuff, and he held a talented lineup scoreless for seven.

Got to agree with you on this. Watching cole gut his way through all those innings was amazing. So much heart, beautiful to watch.

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19

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 11:28:41 pm »

And jomboy wept. Great game.

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20

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 11:23:18 pm »

I invoke the spirit of snake plissken upon those yankee clowns.
Beat 'em osuna!!!!!

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21

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 11:04:57 pm »

Miiiiiiiiiiiiiikeeeeeeeeee!

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22

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 10:59:13 pm »

Escaped, error wiped clean

He really wanted that one. Nice play.

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23

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 08:35:14 pm »

Greinke is such an enigmatic athlete.

His chats with the press are fine absurdist theatre.

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24

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 08:33:13 pm »

Outstanding inning from Grenieke!     

Hell yeah!!!!

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25

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 08:23:50 pm »

Great half inning all the same. Didnt turn into runs but i love altuve's hustle.

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26

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 08:09:02 pm »

Hahahhaahahahajhahhanahhahanananananananaananjahahahhaajahahajjajahahaaaaaaaaaaaaah. Fuck you yankee fan.

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27

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 07:38:11 pm »

Third walk of the inning plates a run...1-0...bases still juiced.  Greinke a wreck.

Fuck fuck fuck fuck. .may lord cthulhu consume the souls of those damned, patient fucking yanks. Fuck. Fuck fuck.

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28

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 07:32:31 pm »

It was more of a gangbang.

Ouch. Thanks.

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29

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019

« on: October 17, 2019, 07:31:06 pm »

Listening not watching. Did the wind fuck with correa on the pop up?

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30

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 3, October 15, 2019

« on: October 15, 2019, 07:03:49 pm »

I really really like it when the ASTROS win in the Bronx.
And fuck the Mets, just because.

31

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 3, October 15, 2019

« on: October 15, 2019, 05:42:04 pm »

I think I have some Nyquil

If you made good use of the break during the umpire swirch you could have brewed your own.

32

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 3, October 15, 2019

« on: October 15, 2019, 05:33:24 pm »

5 walks for Cole

Not the kind of walk on the wild side i like to hear.

33

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 3, October 15, 2019

« on: October 15, 2019, 05:14:18 pm »

I read War and Peace.

Dont say how it ends. No spoilers.

34

Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 3, October 15, 2019

« on: October 15, 2019, 05:00:35 pm »

Don't mind a new strike zone.

35

Talk Zone / Re: Tucker In September

« on: October 06, 2019, 05:14:41 pm »

Not a subscriber, cannot read it.

Not a subscriber either but the article wasnt behind a paywall for me.
Gist--tucker is quiet. Perceived as aloof and lacking effort. Heart to heart with Hinch results in Tucker acting with greater sense of urgency, such as greater aggression on basepath, for example.

36

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, September 25, 2019

« on: September 25, 2019, 11:06:02 pm »

Servais tossed.

Jomboy fodder

37

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, September 25, 2019

« on: September 25, 2019, 10:52:52 pm »

Great fielding by Greinke to erase the walk.

38

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, September 25, 2019

« on: September 25, 2019, 10:37:40 pm »

Been a Perfect night to watch a little baseball...

39

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, September 25, 2019

« on: September 25, 2019, 10:28:45 pm »

So awesome.

+14

40

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, September 25, 2019

« on: September 25, 2019, 10:16:33 pm »

Heard hinch say before the game he would pull Greinke after five to let other pitchers get some work in. Maybe he'll let Greinke go a little longer...

41

Talk Zone / Re: The Mets

« on: September 18, 2019, 04:26:10 pm »

No change. Fuck the cubs.

42

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)

« on: September 10, 2019, 07:02:07 pm »

Me too.  Luhnow has a tough task for next year as many of the possible solutions are question marks: current starters who are free agents, a Framber who didn’t advance and a Whitley who also didn’t advance. They’ll need Lance.

Thankfully, we can focus on the positives of the here and now.

+1
One of the positives is the possible return of the king. Hinch has said encouraging things about Pressly.

43

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs The Dry Dockers Sept 5 2019

« on: September 06, 2019, 12:23:00 am »

Was classy how Miley hung around to support the rest of the team during the game, which has to be is worst mlb outing.
Loved how the Astros just refused to give up.

44

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs The Dry Dockers Sept 5 2019

« on: September 06, 2019, 12:01:16 am »

Every out in the game was recorded by the pen.

Don't think that happens often this century. Any ideas whats up with miley? And staw is one effective pinch runner.

45

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs The Dry Dockers Sept 5 2019

« on: September 05, 2019, 11:54:06 pm »

I like nice guy Mike.
Great comeback win. Even got it won before midnight.

46

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs The Dry Dockers Sept 5 2019

« on: September 05, 2019, 11:45:43 pm »

Fish have used more pitchers than the home team now.

47

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: September 05, 2019, 11:12:26 am »

Like he would really care about giving a woman an orgasm.

trump doesn't give orgasms. he takes them.

48

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)

« on: September 05, 2019, 10:45:00 am »

Fields have differing amounts of foul territory, different ground rules, umps have different strike zones, baseballs have different seams,  Coach has different levels of WFW to use.  It's what makes baseball great.

and some umps have different strike zones in the same at bat. Hope the robot umps never take over.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pE8cmbK4Iw

49

Talk Zone / Celebration of Verlander's no-hitter

« on: September 05, 2019, 10:33:41 am »

As noted elsewhere on the board Jomboy has been kicking ass covering MLB, including some excellent coverage the Astros. All this from a Yankees fan. could give one hope for the species.

Jomboy's coverage of Verlander's no-hitter is brilliant. So many great lines its hard to choose the best. Even though I know its coming I laugh every fucking time I hear "ohhhhhhhhmygod, he knows mahhhhhhname!"

https://jomboymedia.com/2019/09/02/justin-verlander-no-hits-the-blue-jays-a-breakdown/

Reddicks hair flip, also wonderful...can't say I've enjoyed any coverage of baseball more than this guy.

50

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Brewers - 9/3/19

« on: September 03, 2019, 07:38:47 pm »

Prior to this game Greinke was the only astro in the lineup with a hit against Lyles. Hope Greinke turns it around and gets a few more at bats.

51

Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy

« on: September 03, 2019, 04:56:56 pm »

I think it's fine to memorialize someone's death regardless of the cause. It's still tragic.

+1

Caminiti's death was equally sad as Kyle's, just less surprising.

52

Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy

« on: September 03, 2019, 11:53:51 am »

I did not mean anyone was judging Elizabeth, Waldo. I know her situation and what caused her to wake up. The court in her case mandated treatment/rehab. She would not have gone to in-patient without it. Lots you do not know, but your advice is plentiful. Lots of luck to your cousin, but controlled addiction is not a solution.

"Controlled addiction is not a solution,"--you don't know what you are talking about. In Texas, right now (as mentioned earlier in this thread) Methadone and similar drugs are being used to help people control the physical dimension of opiate addiction. It is definitely part of the solution.

And I do wonder if using your daughter's name is respectful of her privacy. Not something I think a Dad should do, We can respectfully disagree on this one too. 

Maybe being often wrong could provide grounds to reconsider  the wisdom of never doubting some of your views. Such as the DH. Like me you have seemed to at least learned to accept it (though I AM looking forward to seeing Greinke bat). And maybe you are fucking wrong to approve of degenerate junkies going through opiate withdrawals in a jail cells or the street.


 

53

Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy

« on: September 02, 2019, 09:34:42 pm »

Yeah, I don't get how those books would inspire someone to use heroin. I never read The Yage Letters. I don't know when or if he ever quit using but Burroughs lived to be 83 and remained productive until his death. Quite an amazing life.

Surrounded by loved ones in Lawrence Kansas was not an obvious way for him to go. Funny thing is heroin itself does not seem to shorten the longevity if the other hazards of the lifestyle don't do you in. Yes, an interesting life indeed. One of my favorite quotes of his that i actually put into practice is, "if it's worth doing, its worth doing badly."

54

Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy

« on: September 02, 2019, 09:10:04 pm »

Yes. One there is always a chance of getting better.

Funny, heroin is one of the very few drugs I never tried. Was a big william s. Burroughs fan as a teenager and it always Suprised me when someone I knew using heroin mentioned his writing as the inspiration. I thought it was pretty clear from his work that using heroin was a horrible idea (junkie, naked lunch etc.) while using ayahuasca might be an excellent one (yage letters).

55

Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy

« on: September 02, 2019, 08:55:42 pm »

Not mine. In patient rehab started her recovery, and incarceration turned her around. I am thankful law enforcement intervened and glad she had serious consequences for her behavior.

Im very glad it worked for her.

I also think that similar, non criminal , procedures could be used to help people who are destroying themselves with addiction. It was being jailed for a third dui that helped a relative turn his life around. That and his youngest kid telling his mother that he wanted a new daddy.

I think mass incarceration is a terrible problem that weakens our country and removing addicts and the mentally ill from the criminal justice system would take one of many burdens off our nation's back.

56

Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy

« on: September 02, 2019, 08:33:36 pm »

Absolutely none of those experts wants their kid addicted to heroin (or meth). But there are lots of reasons to doubt that criminal sanctions are a useful response to a medical issue.
One sometimes overlooked consequence of the U.S. addiction epidemic is the horrific violence and political destabilization that the billions of drug profits cause in countries like Mexico, el Salvador, and Honduras. We are causing regional instability by foolishly continuing to apply criminal sanctions (which are often unevenly applied according to race and class).

Jim im sure your family members addiction was a terrible thing for everyone in your family. my family (like almost every other in America) has been affected by addiction too. But in retrospect, it was medical intervention, not criminal sanctions that saved my relative from heroin.

57

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Brewers - 9/2/19

« on: September 02, 2019, 08:05:41 pm »

Egregious error. What should he have done? Throw his glove? Stomp his foot? Cry? Scream?

No emotion is a sin. You must hate Brantley. How much emotion does Alvarez show? This is not fucking Little League where tantrums are the norm. Osuna struck the next guy out on three pitches to strand the runners.
I liked that. Here he got cursed.

At least GIles only punches himself. Fuck Osuna.

58

Talk Zone / Re: Verlander addresses refusal to take ??? from Det reporter Anthony French

« on: September 01, 2019, 03:02:39 pm »

Between calling out MLB about baseball and now this.  Verlander has decided he isn't going to just go along with the norm and he is willing to pay the price.  I think he probably cost himself some Cy Young votes and maybe some 1st ballot HOF votes with this event but that just confirms the immaturity of the BBWA .  They want him to treat them well regardless of treatment but they won't return the favor.

I bet JV got a few of those bets back today. What a great fucking day for JV and the rest of the team. So happy for Toro too. A bit gobsmacked the Astros have two no hitters this season.

59

Talk Zone / Re: Astros just DFA’d Tyler White

« on: July 20, 2019, 12:47:30 pm »

Idiotic comment.

Agreed. But I still think john kruk's view is funny.

60

Talk Zone / Re: Astros just DFA’d Tyler White

« on: July 20, 2019, 12:07:08 pm »

As a fat guy, this is nuts. You think the Astros suggested his off-season program should be nachos and bud heavy?

Mr. White is not an athlete, he is a baseball player.

61

Talk Zone / Re: Astros just DFA’d Tyler White

« on: July 20, 2019, 11:37:15 am »

The guy was signed as minor league filler and was never expected to play in the Major Leagues. He over-performed at every level except the Majors. The man lived the dream and I salute him.

Farewell, Tyler and success in your future!

Nicely said.
One of my favorite things about him was his being called to pitch in relief. Saw him do that this season and it shocked me to see the Meg on the mound. All the best to him.

62

Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019

« on: December 20, 2018, 04:41:59 pm »

How does a signing bonus affect calculating the team salary for luxury tax purposes? Noticed Brantley received a 2mil signing bonus and wondering how mlb characterises them. Still in shock that the Astros are getting anywhere near the salary ceiling. Wonder abounds
 

63

Talk Zone / Power ball

« on: October 09, 2018, 02:19:43 pm »

Rob Neyer has a new book, Power Ball,  that examines baseball through a single game played by two teams in September 2017. Because one of the teams is the Astros i'm listening to it. 

64

Talk Zone / Re: Team Milestones 2018

« on: October 01, 2018, 06:12:33 pm »

In 98 I was so glad the Astros faced the Padres in the division series instead of the braves. Thought i would finally get to see the astros win a postseason series. Kevin brown, dark lord of evil, taught me patience.

Twenty years later I know that short series are cruel, and more than any other AL team i would rather the astros face the Indians in 7 than 5 games. This is going to be a fight. If the astros don't advance it will not be because they were complacent, entitled, or underestimated their opponent. Love this team and can't wait to watch an incredible series.

65

Talk Zone / Re: Team Milestones 2018

« on: October 01, 2018, 05:59:20 pm »

I've decided I want the Astros to beat the Brewers in the world series.

Me too. We're on a roll.

66

Beer and Queso / Re: Youth baseball bat

« on: October 01, 2018, 10:44:54 am »

Thank you both so much! Bought him an easton model that is probably the right length and weight at academy Friday just so he can have something to practice with but will use the expertise (and bats)of his coaches and team to find bat 2.0. Most of the kids have been playing for years but he really loves it and is catching up fast. Had no idea how complicated finding a good bat can be. Thanks for your help. Appreciate the great advice.

67

Beer and Queso / Youth baseball bat

« on: September 28, 2018, 03:39:20 pm »

Buying a bat for a 9 year old. Found useful stuff online on how to select proper size.
Any recommendations on brands?

68

Beer and Queso / Re: Football down under

« on: September 28, 2018, 03:37:19 pm »

Then call it footy and we'll all be happy.

69

Talk Zone / Re: Postseason roster questions

« on: September 28, 2018, 02:05:57 pm »

Amen. So who has the final say on the roster if they don't reach consensus?

70

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: September 28, 2018, 12:31:58 pm »

Correct.  If they'd "saved" the filibuster, the Republicans would be nuking it now for SCOTUS nominees, instead of back then.  Better to have them nuke it so it's not there once the balance shifts in the Senate.

Gorsuch was qualified with no character issues I've ever heard of. It would look very different if they forced the republicans to go nuclear now.

71

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: September 28, 2018, 11:46:56 am »

Bet the dems are regretting using a filibuster on Gorsuch.

72

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: September 28, 2018, 11:37:55 am »

His testimony is setting him up to be impeached if confirmed. Not happy about how much damage this would do to the court and our country. Frankly i hope trump pulls him. There are many many conversative judges who didn't have a drunken frat boy phase. I think of the personal integrity of Justice Roberts. Very similar to Kavanaugh on the surface. But only on the surface.

73

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: September 28, 2018, 10:50:50 am »

You heartless bastard.  Mark Judge is a recovering alcoholic and making him give sworn testimony would be tantamount to a high-tech raping.

Agreed. And I want to watch.

74

Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime

« on: September 28, 2018, 10:16:26 am »

I want to hear mark judge give testimony under oath.

75

Beer and Queso / Football down under

« on: September 28, 2018, 09:59:48 am »

Aussie rules football championship is tonight. If you are up late and want to check out a great sport give it a go. If you are in houston the phoenix on westheimer has a great party. Its kid friendly, taking four of mine. Go blues!

76

Talk Zone / Re: Postseaon tickets

« on: September 28, 2018, 09:53:00 am »

Scored actual seats to game 5; only SRO available for 1 and 2, passed.

77

Talk Zone / Re: Astros just acquired Osuna

« on: September 26, 2018, 03:05:21 pm »

I read that elsewhere and wondered if a Canadian edict like that had much weight in Mexico. Though, they probably shouldn't go together to Canada for a year.

What is the weight of a canadian edict? In Mexico, ephemeral. Canada, heavy. In the USA, maybe a lot. Crimes of violence can impact a work visa. Do not need a conviction for a visa to be denied or revoked.

78

Talk Zone / Re: Astros just acquired Osuna

« on: September 26, 2018, 11:09:50 am »

Nope. I acknowledge your self-proclaimed superior expertise on all subjects discussed on this site, but I have vastly more experience on this topic than do you.

Your insight does not suggest much reflection into your vast experience.

79

Talk Zone / Re: 2018 AL West Division Champs

« on: September 26, 2018, 10:45:01 am »

Happy birthday jimr. Hope the astros winning the west on your bday is one of many good things that come your way today.

80

Talk Zone / Re: 2018 AL West Division Champs

« on: September 26, 2018, 02:18:37 am »

FUCK yahhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!! Thank you tom servo.

81

Talk Zone / Re: 2018 AL West Division Champs

« on: September 26, 2018, 01:37:35 am »

was following the game in Seattle too. Can't remember ever cheering for the mariners before.
Amazing season. Bet some of the players are having a precelebration party right now, even im toronto. And devo gets a start. Weird wonderful world.

82

Talk Zone / Re: As

« on: September 26, 2018, 12:17:12 am »

Frankly i don't care if the A'S beat the yankers in the big Apple or the big o. This year I hope the A'S wipe out the al east for the astros. They're a fun team to watch and it be great to face them again this year.

83

Talk Zone / Re: Astros just acquired Osuna

« on: September 26, 2018, 12:05:30 am »

Glad Osuna was granted a peace bond. I'll never cheer for this pinche cabron, but want this in the rearview for the sake of the team.
Don't get how some of you rush to defend this guy. the astros brass have made many amazing decisions since crane took over. Trading for osuna isn't one of them.

And go fuck yourself Jim.

84

Talk Zone / Re: Astros just acquired Osuna

« on: August 29, 2018, 11:22:39 am »

I thought we'd run you off. Fuck off. Go away. Stay away.

I genuinely missed you Mr. Happy, glad to see that you are alive and well.

85

Talk Zone / Re: Astros just acquired Osuna

« on: August 29, 2018, 09:33:16 am »

Fuck off. You made your opinion clear weeks ago. You do not know what happened. No one does. STFU about this.

You should get a 75 day suspension from posting for this type of unnecessary, hostile bullshit JimR.

86

Talk Zone / Re: season tickets

« on: July 30, 2018, 05:42:32 pm »

On a positive note, the "Astros Buddy Club"  which includes four tickets and a bunch of other swag was a bargain at only $27. My nine year old thinks its the best deal ever.

He also agrees that paying 12 bucks for a pretzel and Mr. Pibb seems like gouging (especially since the soda in question does not have an advanced degree).

87

Talk Zone / Re: Fun Commerical with Astros

« on: April 04, 2018, 01:59:14 pm »

not a commercial but enough said
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XpUSWiS4AA

hope I did this right

You did! and thanks. didn't know this existed.

88

Talk Zone / Fun Commerical with Astros

« on: April 04, 2018, 10:02:12 am »

https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/astros/article/Springer-Correa-Altuve-coffee-H-E-B-commercial-12802113.php

Apologize for linking a commerical but this one has two of my favorite addictions, coffee and Astros. Disfrute!

89

Talk Zone / Re: Astros to acquire Gerrit Cole

« on: January 15, 2018, 03:21:41 pm »

That 2005 rotation carried an inept offense to the World Series. They’re the best until proven otherwise.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I recall the 2017 pitchers showing up for the Astros in a few of post season games. In my view the 2017 starting pitchers out-preformed the 2015 lineup.  What amazes me is the crazy depth of the Astros starting rotating. This is a formidable, memorable team.

90

Talk Zone / Re: Astros to acquire Gerrit Cole

« on: January 15, 2018, 03:07:52 pm »

Fangraphs on the Cole deal. https://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/the-astros-might-be-the-perfect-team-for-gerrit-cole/

and Gammons wrote something positive about the Astros. http://www.gammonsdaily.com/peter-gammons-astros-reload-for-2018-run-with-cole-trade/

Fangraphs article was interesting, thank you. The Gammons article makes English feel like a foreign language.

So this this the best Astros starting rotation ever?
 Oswalt, Pettitte, Clemens,  was pretty good. This one is likely better. Hard to imagine there has been more depth for potential starters.

91

Talk Zone / Re: Preston Tucker

« on: December 21, 2017, 01:08:10 pm »

Have not been following the postseason trades closely and  was shocked to read "Tucker traded to Braves" as a headline on Astros.com. Had completely forgotten about brother Preston.

And a  Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah and merry Solstice too  to all you Astros fans who already got the best gift an Astros Fan can have in November. 

92

Beer and Queso / Re: The Last Jedi [spoiler alert]

« on: December 21, 2017, 11:07:19 am »

Thought this one largely sucked, with some great moments (fight scene with the red guards) but overall a movie trapped in its own legacy riddled with weak, unneccesary subplots. Did like the reveal about Rey's parents. And Laura Dern...been a fan since  "Wild at Heart."

My new hope for the franchise are the stand alone movies. I enjoyed Rogue One more than the Force Awakens or The Last Jedi. Excited by the Han Solo and Boba Fett movies scheduled to come out.

I hope they follow the marvel format and do a lot more single character movies and then link them up in overarching saga stories. Think "Thor Ragnarok" is a create example of what can happen if you let a director come up with his own take and have fun with a character. I have not seen any of the other Thor movies (and don't plan to) but like the director and completely enjoyed it.

Would love to see an R-rated Sith triology that was truly frightening (like Vader in the end of Rogue One). 

93

Talk Zone / Re: Programming Note

« on: November 17, 2017, 11:10:33 am »

Don't underestimate the value of having the AL Rookie gong to give to Judge.  If he wasn't a qualified rookie, this would have been much closer and maybe even a different outcome.  Those Yankee schlongs won't gorvel themselves, you know.

+1. I think judge deserves his award, and Altuve deserves his. Glad the media had a way to honor both.

94

Talk Zone / Re: Programming Note

« on: November 16, 2017, 06:08:53 pm »

This really makes an amazing season complete. Altuve is such an amazing player, so glad that he is getting the recognition he deserves.

95

Talk Zone / Re: Shohei Ohtani

« on: November 15, 2017, 12:29:48 pm »

Got my ion you.

man, we just have terrible chemistry. Could you please keep your acidic remarks to yourself? if you keep it up...fuck man I am warning you here...all your base R belong to us.

96

Talk Zone / Re: Shohei Ohtani

« on: November 15, 2017, 12:11:09 pm »

You trying to summon Alkie?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

that's a baseless accusation.

97

Talk Zone / Re: And the winner is...

« on: November 15, 2017, 11:20:25 am »

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/261899192/paul-molitor-named-as-al-manager-of-year/

Just read the article about Molitor's season. Not getting the impression Hinch got "robbed." Expect Hinch will win one soon enough, as inconsequential as it might be next to this year's achievement.

98

Talk Zone / Re: And the winner is...

« on: November 15, 2017, 11:10:59 am »

Turner?  Each league has their own MVP.

Think he meant Jose Ramirez. Turner is not on the the NL MVP shortlist, so it would be especially galling if he wins it.

99

Talk Zone / Re: Shohei Ohtani

« on: November 15, 2017, 11:05:08 am »

Unnecessary.  They have Angel Hernandez.

Sometimes it takes an outsider to make the obvious visible.

Limey you are baseball's De Tocqueville.

Just in case, though I did compare you to a Frenchman (in this rare exception) it was only intended as a compliment.

100

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 15, 2017, 10:39:50 am »

Not really.

also a very polite understatement. let's see how many people agree.

101

Talk Zone / Re: Beltran 2.0

« on: November 15, 2017, 10:31:42 am »

Returning to topic:  Brent Strom on Beltran:

He wore me out telling me how my pitchers are tipping. It finally got to the point where I said, 'I know, I know.' He really helped me a great deal with Lance McCullers Jr and Chris Devenski and everybody. It's really frustrating sitting there, watching your pitcher, and he's whispering in my ear that a changeup is coming. And there it was. Or a curveball is coming, and there it was.

Noticed how Keuchel went out of his way to personally thank Brent Strom by name. Amazing  that Beltran made Strom a better pitching coach. Thank you Mr. Beltran. So many factors came together to make this a historically great team. Glad this detail came to light.

102

Talk Zone / Re: And the winner is...

« on: November 15, 2017, 10:18:38 am »

Award or not,  AJ was the definition of a steady hand at the wheel the entire  regular season.

And he managed the hell out of the postseason.

I only watched Hinch manage with regularity after the all star game and I think  he should get credit for successfully handling a lot of injuries among other things. And I haven't watched Molitor manage a single game, so I can't speak to the justness of the decision.

Most (all?) of Hinch's starting rotation had injuries real or imagined at some point of the season. Also had stretches where key position players were hurt too. Even had to deal with his emergency back up pitchers having problems of their own (Paulino). So sure, maybe Molitor got a lot out of a team with considerably less talent, but it wasn't smooth sailing on the road winning the division (a hurricane comes to mind).

Things like manger of the year are pretty subjective, expect this is award may be like an Oscar, where you sometimes win in a specific year in order to recognize your career, not just a specific year.  No doubt people are paying attention to him now and wouldn't be surprised if he wins one in the next year or two. 

103

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 15, 2017, 09:53:25 am »

Don't feed the bears trolls.

+1

but every now and then its fun to feed a troll and see what happens.

104

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 10:49:32 pm »

I don't see Biggio and Altuve as anywhere near the same player.

If you mean Biggio never had a post season like Altuve just had I agree. Nor did Biggio put up mvp batting production like Altuve in 2017. Biggio did perform at a very high level for a long time and earned his place in Cooperstown. One of the similarities I see is that they both seem like great men on and off the field. Hope Altuve stays healthy and has a long career.

105

Talk Zone / Re: And the winner is...

« on: November 14, 2017, 09:52:03 pm »

Wow. I guess Judge will be mvp.

If there's no justice. As in Richard justice.

106

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 09:49:57 pm »

You have not learned a thing.

JimR,  why is it you remind me of ed kemper?

107

Talk Zone / Re: Shohei Ohtani

« on: November 14, 2017, 09:48:11 pm »

This set me to thinking.  Since baseball is America's game and the National Pastime and all that, why not designate one umpire in each game the Trumpire?   The Trumpire would be like a wild card umpire the purpose of whom is to introduce a high level of chaos? 

Nevermind.  Baseball doesn't need that kind of reality.

It would be beautiful.

108

Talk Zone / And the winner is...

« on: November 14, 2017, 09:46:03 pm »

Paul molitor wins AL Manager of the year with twice as many votes as Hinch's 52. Guess Mr. Hinch will have to console himself with a world series championship over the long cold winter. Thank you Mr.Hinch.

109

Talk Zone / Re: world series stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 07:34:50 pm »

Not specifically world series stuff, but ... wow!

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Amazing-Departures-Houston-Astros-MLB-Baseball-Cremation-Urn-For-Ashes-or-Burial/152580768696?hash=item238685c3b8:g:isgAAOSwnK9ZPB27

Maybe the team can use that in their ceremony for beltran's bat.

110

Talk Zone / Re: Beltran 2.0

« on: November 14, 2017, 07:30:24 pm »

I am very fast at some things...

Sorry man. There are techniques that can help with that.

111

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 06:37:33 pm »

You have not learned a thing.

Nice Simpson's reference.

112

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 05:04:09 pm »

Bregman is a new phenomenon so it's hard to make any predictions about him but, barring some bad luck, it seems likely that Altuve, Correa and Springer will end up in Cooperstown.  Hopefully all with H's on their caps.

As for beating the best teams, you can only beat who the game puts in front of you.  But I think it's clear that we caught a break in the ALCS getting the Yankees with home field advantage, instead of the Indians on the road.  That's not to say that the Astros would not have beaten the Indians, but the Yankees are built almost exclusively to win at home and their road performances suffer as a direct result.  In that series, of course, all 7 games were won by the home team, with the Yankees scoring a grand total of 3 runs at "hitter friendly" MMP in four games.

As an aside, it's ironic that the Astros were in danger of getting undone by the idiosyncrasies of Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium, in the first year since the removal of Tal's Hill.  I remember one looooong fly out by an Astro in the World Series (can't remember when / who) that would've had Taylor trying to make a play running up the hill backwards.  To my recollection, only Beltran made that look routine (but I have missed some time).

I appreciate home field eccentricities (and the advantages they provide) but always thought Tal's hill was a poor execution of the idea. Of the four (and its hard to choose)  Bregman is my favorite and am looking forward to see what he does. Altuve is certainly one of the most likable men to perform at the very top level, but his agent isn't. Doubt Altuve will play for the Astros his whole career but hope he chooses to be remembered as one. 

113

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 04:21:40 pm »

Yes, there's definitely a Tank Commander element to what happened to Roberts because he'd never faced a lineup as relentless and unforgiving as the Astros.  Which sort of brings me back around to him needing to throw away his regular season strategies because there was nothing regular about what was going on.  He was backed into corners of his own making.

Still Astros lineup was not so relentless and unforgiving at times in New York. Think it was pitching that contributed more in the NY series. Never watched so much post season baseball before and now appreciate how different it is from the regular season. Got what I wanted, Astros played the three best teams and beat them all. Astros lineup hit an amazing number of elite pitchers in game on the line (and season on the line) situations. Fun to wonder how many of the Killer ABC'S (Altuve, Bregman, Correa, Springer) could end up in the hall.

114

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 03:39:50 pm »

Ah. That's just because most people aren't the savants we are here at OWA.

"The book" on pitchers (and hitters) gets much more info during these playoff series.   Smoltz also touched on one of the pitfalls of doing things the Roberts way: if you keep trotting out pitcher after pitcher,  chances are someone is going to fail. Do it night after night, and game 5 might happen.

I don't know man, there were two extremely close games that luckily both went the Astros' way. Roberts won just one less postseason victory than Hinch. Certainly pleased with the outcome, but am hesitant to claim that the big difference was the managers. Hinch definitely did an amazing job getting the most out of his team, especially his  bullpen. And also being patient with Springer.  I watched the Dodgers play seven games this year, and have no idea if Roberts could have used his players better.

115

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 03:14:47 pm »

What you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul. 

The World Series is over.  You can go back to being a Rangers fan now.  U FOO!

you just proved the infinite monkey theory. Out of the nonsense emerges a portion of "Billy Madison." Keep going!

116

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 14, 2017, 02:47:39 pm »

FIFY

definitely. definitely idiots.

117

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 11, 2017, 08:38:20 am »

Cut the shit out.  The Astros won the World Series and this shit gets started?

BudGirl, out of abundance of caution, I want to make it clear to you that I am not "going after you" like some people on the board seem to think. I think you are a bright spot here and appreciate your contribution to the community.

 I agree with you. I think the conversation between JimR and myself is shit. But please consider this, who is the person on this board who can't get enough of this shit? Over the many years how many threads have this kind of sad, aggressive, hostile shit in them? What is the common denominator?

From my view, I think the answer is JimR. I think he can't get enough of this shit. Maybe you see it differently, I am wrong multiple times every fucking day.

JimR obviously likes you and might listen to you. JimR has a lot of friends here, but I think he needs at least one more to let him know when he is out of line.

In case it has been misunderstood, saying "hope your master finds work soon," refers to Brad Ausmus being between gigs in baseball. Since you refer to yourself as the Slave of Brad Ausmus, I intended that has a joke, not an insult. You and I both like Brad, albeit differently. If someone in your life who others here think of as "your master" is out of work--that is an unfortunate coincidence.

Genuinely wish you, and your devotion to Brad Ausmus all the best--yours is a love greater than any restraining order. So if I have offended you, I apologize. No offense was intended and though a bit wordy, I hope it removes any of the ambiguity in my prior post.

118

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 06:12:56 pm »

Cut the shit out.  The Astros won the World Series and this shit gets started?

Don't think this shit has much to do with the Astros, but you make a good point. Hope your master finds work soon.

119

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 06:10:17 pm »

Like the desert rose, an ephemeral bloom and a fleeting scent.

not quite sure what you mean by this  but my guess is you are fondly remembering your finger.

120

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 06:08:21 pm »

Captain Obvious, you Sir are becoming tiresome.

It is neither wise nor effective to rise to every slight or aspersion you feel is cast your way.

To quote the time honored First Truth of the Talk Zone - "Read more, post less"

good advice, I'll heed it. sincerely.  have a great weekend.

121

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 03:56:37 pm »

“I am bored with this conversation.” Is that one of the several steps of trolldome archived somewhere?

I call bullshit on you not knowing the steps of trolldome by heart. Or perhaps your question was rhetorical, and you are switching from being a dick to a douchebag. Either way go fuck yourself.

122

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 11:31:46 am »

http://m.mlb.com/cutfour/2017/11/05/260718954/the-dodgers-took-out-a-full-page-ad-in-a-local-paper-to-wish-the-astros-congratulations

Damn. Is that classy? Because I sure think it is. Hope the Astros don't have reason to take out a similar ad for the Dodgers.

Did the Astros do that for the White Sox? This is a common practice?

123

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 11:19:05 am »

All that game needed was a good brawl.  Wasn't going to happen, but it's fun to think about. 

Other than Pederson and Yuli, I thought the teams' demeanor generally was great, and part of what made it such a fine series.  The post-series ad in the Chronicle was also a nice touch, though I doubt the players knew anything about it.

+1. Though I also think Puig's relationship with his bat was a bit unorthodox for audiences outside of LA--i wonder if the bat prefers to be addressed with traditional pronouns or uses "they and them."

What was the Chronicle Ad?

124

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 11:15:03 am »

No one likes getting hit, but clearly none of it was intentional, and the Dodgers benefited from the baserunners.  Did you expect Turner to get tossed from Game 7 just to show he's some how manly?  It had nothing to do with being "classy" and everything to do with trying to win Game 7 of the World Series.

No, I didn't expect that. I thought that was clear in my prior post, obviously it wasn't. I'm bored of this non-conversation. Hope you are too.

125

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 09:58:20 am »

I'd be careful there. Coach has a lot of friends here, including me.

I told JimR to fuck off because I thought he was being a dick. He throws " fuck off" around pretty freely, seems to take it pretty hard if he gets one himself. If you would, reread the exchange and if you think I am out of line let me know.

126

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 09:45:52 am »

What did you expect them to do?  They got four free baserunners in the first three innings.  They should have been thrilled.

A range of behavior somewhere between Biggio and Ventura's responses to getting hit...Justin Turner didn't look exactly thrilled to get plunked twice in a row but I thought he handled it well when he might not have. Better than Wells giving the crowd extra time to boo Yuli, better than Joc strap's victory dance, I thought four, even unintentional, hit batters was a lot. Being behind in game seven of the world series helped the dodger players focus on the positive side of the free base.

But then again, I'm just fine with not agreeing on what is or isn't classy behavior. 

127

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 10, 2017, 09:12:50 am »

No class required. They knew he was not trying to hit them.

Agreed that it was obvious that McCullers wasn't trying to hit anyone. But in and out of a baseball game I've observed people act less than classy over much less.

128

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 09, 2017, 04:55:20 pm »

I still can't get over McCuller's lasting less than 3 innings,  hitting 4 batters, and the Astros escaping with zero runs allowed.

When you put it like that it does seem a little miraculous. I thought the Dodgers showed some class in the way they handled being hit.

129

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 09, 2017, 10:16:42 am »

You're probably right.  It was kind of a gut feeling.

smile and a belly-laugh. well done.

130

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 09, 2017, 09:45:24 am »

I absolutely knew both were going to be home runs.  Really.

NeilT, and I really believe you. Most likely a reward from the BBGs for the many ways you honor them. It is also possible that the spices found in Frito Pie act to de-calcify the pineal  gland, thus opening the third eye and providing you with subgenius-like powers in times of stress (like when the Astros are behind in the 9th and/or (both!) struggling to digest Frito Pie).

131

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 08, 2017, 05:54:39 pm »

Seriously? You want to go there?

not really. but here we are.

132

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 08, 2017, 05:39:45 pm »

I think you must be getting paid by the word. Sure youvdid.

fuck off JimR

133

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 08, 2017, 05:38:45 pm »

Watch out, wise  ass. He has friends here.

This, I expected.

134

Talk Zone / Re: Free Agents

« on: November 08, 2017, 05:31:16 pm »

In fairness the Astros didn't give up multiple players to get Devo.  And Giles was dealt for to be THE guy to finish those games as long as the Astros were alive.

Curious about which players in the farm system who have a chance to play next year. From the looks of the team only an outfielder or a pitcher has chance of seeing much playing time barring an injury. This is such a different organization. Used to be that very few positions were blocked. Part of the fun(?) of the Grocer days was the shear madness of what was going to happen next during the Void. Journalist piss off the team's two leading players by making private conversations public? Make him the Manager! Have a hall of fame second baseman? hire another second baseman and move the old guy to left field. Crane and Luhnow are so competent that it takes a lot of the surprise away from being an Astros fan. I think I can get used to it.

135

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 08, 2017, 04:14:32 pm »

Anyone who successfully "expects" a home run in a specific at bat from a career .344 slugger has missed his calling.

The TalkZone might have discovered a 2nd generation Nostradamus.

As I don't know you at all, I have no expectations of you. I expect JimR to be quick to be aggressive and occasionally grouchy. It's part of the fun of reading the threads here.

I suspect a few things about you, but I not strongly enough to venture any predictions.

136

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 08, 2017, 04:02:37 pm »

I call bullshit on your expecting that HR from Ausmus.

I did not expect that specific HR from Ausmus. I expected Brad to get an HR now and then, which he seemed to do more often in the postseason. I had zero expectation that Marwin would get the HR in the 9th. Would have taken a bet against that happening if I bet against the Astros which I never ever do.

Which raises a question, what level of probability raises to the level of "expect" in the context of an at bat? Ausmus had a 3% chance (if my math is right, and it may not be) of getting an HR in a specific at bat, which was twice as good as his regular season percentage.

The only time I knew someone was going to get a HR was when Joe Carter hit one off of Mitch Williams. I was dead certain that was going to happen.
 
Oh, and when Bonds tied the HR record in Houston. Wasn't 100% that was going to happen but it was looking pretty good that the Astros pitcher they sent out to please the fans wasn't going to make Barry wait. 

 

137

Talk Zone / Re: I cannot get enough of this stuff

« on: November 08, 2017, 12:37:40 pm »

Was Marwin's homerun more or less unexpected than the Ausmus homerun in 2005?

I had the impression that Ausmus seemed to hit for more power in the postseason than in the regular season (even got to see him hit one in person against the braves in a NLDS). I just looked it up and he has 3 postseason HR's for a total of 1 for every 35.33 at bats vs. 1 HR for every 78.48 at bats over his career. In comparison Biggio and Bagwell both only had 2 HR's in their postseason careers. So I had learned to expect the unexpected from Ausmus.

I did not see Marwin's HR coming at all. That was one of the most happy baseball surprises I have ever seen.

138

Talk Zone / Re: The End of Big Money Free Agents

« on: November 03, 2017, 11:24:11 am »

This season shows that tear-down can work--if executed really really well. It also shows that spending a ton of money can get you to the big show too (Dojers, I am looking at you).

Bet a lot of teams are going to attempt a "tear down" and fail. It will be the story they give to a dwindling, frustrated fan base.

Big market teams (NY, LA, Boston) cannot tear-down and they don't have to. I am hoping that Astros transforms itself into a big market team worthy of the size of the city and the size of the regional (and maybe national) interest in the team.

139

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game 7 - For All the Marbles 11-1-2017

« on: November 02, 2017, 04:28:57 pm »

Did Darvish's world series performance cost him tens of millions on his next contract?

Yu who?

life is beautiful. It is a great and glorious day. Something really special just happened. look for it...you won't be disappointed if you find it. 

140

Talk Zone / Re: The Void

« on: November 02, 2017, 04:06:24 pm »

Whoa whoa whoa. Hold on. Hollllllllllld on now.

Shouldn't we wait just a couple days before really thinking about shit like this? That's next year's team. I'm not ready to move on from this year's team.

Agree
So happy that all of the key players will be back next year...and the next (excepting perhaps Dallas)....my Ranger-fan brother was a bit grim to learn about this.

141

Talk Zone / Re: Charlie Morton Statue: Bronze or Marble?

« on: November 02, 2017, 08:44:41 am »

Good story on Charlie Morton at NYT:

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/02/sports/houston-astros-world-series-charlie-morton.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Fsports&action=click&contentCollection=sports&region=stream&module=stream_unit&version=latest&contentPlacement=1&pgtype=sectionfront

142

Talk Zone / Re: Thank You

« on: November 02, 2017, 08:02:11 am »

Congrats to all you beautiful maniacs! Didn't know if this day would ever come....last day of baseball and the ASTROS got a win. In shock, literally. Went nuts. watched the game with all 3 of my boys (9, 13, 16). They are super tired this morning but hey dad it was worth it. In the car chuck says dad I am so happy this morning I forgot to hate the rangers. Missing a couple of people I watched the games with, mostly just full of joy. Gratitude and love to everyone at astrosconnection, SnS,  and the OWE who have kept the line going for so long.

143

Talk Zone / Re: Charlie Morton Statue: Bronze or Marble?

« on: November 02, 2017, 07:51:34 am »

Iron. He is an admirable man.

144

Talk Zone / Re: World Series - Series Previews - Astros/Dodgers

« on: November 01, 2017, 10:26:15 am »

Waldo thanks so much for the pre and post views of the games. Looking at the VOID with a clear and happy heart. So glad that there is only one more day of baseball remaining and the Astros are in the game with a chance to win it all. This is as good as it gets. Appreciate all you and others do to make this a great place to be an Astros addict.

145

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game Six - Astros v Dodgers. Oct. 31, 2017

« on: October 31, 2017, 10:39:35 pm »

I will forgive you forever for playing for the fucking mets. hit the goddamn ball. please.

146

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game Six - Astros v Dodgers. Oct. 31, 2017

« on: October 31, 2017, 10:38:27 pm »

Vaunt! Vaunt! Vaunt! Ger Liriano back in the game....he's rested.

147

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game Six - Astros v Dodgers. Oct. 31, 2017

« on: October 31, 2017, 09:18:40 pm »

Roberts can't figure out why hinch hasn't pulled verlander after a solid hit like that.

148

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game Six - Astros v Dodgers. Oct. 31, 2017

« on: October 31, 2017, 08:38:35 pm »

Hill is the king no more

149

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game Six - Astros v Dodgers. Oct. 31, 2017

« on: October 31, 2017, 08:37:49 pm »

T5, 1 - 0,

Si se McCaaaaaaaaaannnn!

McCann,
first pitch deposited into right for a single.

150

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game Six - Astros v Dodgers. Oct. 31, 2017

« on: October 31, 2017, 08:36:03 pm »

Verlander is incredible.  Thank you so much Mr. Luhnow.

151

Talk Zone / Re: Thanks to all of you

« on: October 31, 2017, 01:37:33 pm »

Few time poster, long time lurker...

I've been watching as many of you have commented, joked, and sparred over this franchise since I discovered the old AstrosConnection back in 1999.  I've enjoyed your joyous exclamations when this team has done great things.

Things like clinching on the last game of 99, the six-pitcher no-hitter in NYC, the Chris Burke HR, the NLCS win in 05, the rise of the baby 'Stros in 15, and this year's crazy World Series run.

I've also experienced your pain when things haven't gone so well, such as Walt-f**&%$#-Weiss,  Carlos Hernandez tearing his rotator cuff, Anaheim Jimmy in the 04 NLCS Game 6,  the sweep in the 05 WS, the many losses from 2008-14, and the Correa error, and getting Rangered last year.

When other folks gave up on this team in the Process years, it was nice to turn to this board and see some excellent discussion about the bright future.  Now that the Astros are on the cusp of greatness, I wanted you all to know that it's been more fun because of what you all bring to the discussion.

Thanks to you all. I hope to be celebrating with you soon!

peace be upon you Crusher Joe. I can relate.

152

Talk Zone / Re: Game 6

« on: October 31, 2017, 01:34:09 pm »

At James Coney Island, the lady who made my Frito pie wore an Astros tee shirt and cap.

BBG's be praised...a sign! Which we accept with gratitude, but not too much...just the right amount of appreciation and  terror.

153

Talk Zone / Re: Game 6

« on: October 31, 2017, 11:31:02 am »

Both bullpens are exhausted. Can't fault Hinch with anyway he plays his hand excepting handing the ball to Giles, which no one (probably including Giles) wants to risk right now.  If the Astros have a late lead and Verlander can't take it to nine then I hope Hinch uses McCullers to close it out. If they get to McCullers with a late lead, so be it. Game seven will be an epic slugfest with two exhausted pitching staffs. I think Verlander/McCullers is the Astros strongest combo at this point. If that doesn't get the job done then fuck it, everyone in game seven can play like their is no tomorrow....

154

Talk Zone / Re: Yuli Suspension?

« on: October 29, 2017, 12:04:26 am »

Yuli made the slant eyes gesture which doesn't require much common sense to know that is not ok.  There is nothing ok about making that gesture.  It shouldn't be hard to understand that that is not ok.  And, Yuli played a year in Japan and he himself says he knows better.

Sir,
We agree!
Yuli did a bad thing.
this issue is chickenshit.
keeping sentences short.
just for you.

philosophical question:
If I am alone, and make the slant eye gesture, and no one sees me, is not ok?

Doubt it is over.
doubt the Dojer fans are going to be classy when the Astros play in L.A.
Hope I'm wrong.
 



 

155

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series - Game Four. Astros v. Dodgers. Oct. 28, 2017

« on: October 28, 2017, 11:11:25 pm »

As much as I love Luhnow I do worry he's got too much affinity for Giles.  I think he takes a lot of pride in that trade for Giles.

Does the GM pressure the Manager to use his pet project? Seriously, didn't know that happens. I am sure guys sometimes get at bats and starts because a lot of money is being paid to them, but they also play because a GM is proud of a trade? And in the World Series? The Verlander trade establishes Luhnow as the Sultan of Swap, doesn't need Giles to succeed to look fucking awesome.

156

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series - Game Four. Astros v. Dodgers. Oct. 28, 2017

« on: October 28, 2017, 11:07:22 pm »

Seriously... Watching the MLB Network postgame..   "No Peacock available, so the bullpen was thin.. "    Do these people not know who is in the bullpen for the Astros?

Can't blame them, Hinch (and everyone else) isn't sure either.

157

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series - Game Four. Astros v. Dodgers. Oct. 28, 2017

« on: October 28, 2017, 10:41:44 pm »

Giles - Lidge


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That is very unfair to Lidge

158

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series - Game Four. Astros v. Dodgers. Oct. 28, 2017

« on: October 28, 2017, 10:31:51 pm »

How can they win this thing without a bullpen?

Like they won game seven against the yanks and game 3 against the dojers. Verlander will be throwing a complete game regardless of how many innings it goes.

159

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series - Game Four. Astros v. Dodgers. Oct. 28, 2017

« on: October 28, 2017, 10:21:39 pm »

Waste of a great effort by Morton.  Ok..6 quick runs please

160

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series - Game Four. Astros v. Dodgers. Oct. 28, 2017

« on: October 28, 2017, 10:21:06 pm »

Waste of a great effort by Morton.  Ok..6 quick runs please

161

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series - Game Four. Astros v. Dodgers. Oct. 28, 2017

« on: October 28, 2017, 10:08:03 pm »

Really hope Giles is done for the series.

162

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series - Game Four. Astros v. Dodgers. Oct. 28, 2017

« on: October 28, 2017, 09:58:03 pm »

I think I want a Twizzler too. I've run out of finger nails.

163

Talk Zone / Re: Yuli Suspension?

« on: October 28, 2017, 02:36:28 pm »

A lack of malice doesn't make it acceptable, but I'd imagine the CBA would prevent whatever performance punishment the twitterverse is calling for.  This isn't the NFL.

But Yuli and the Astros should get ahead of it with a genuine apology and a tangible remedial action.  Yuli can partner with the ADL or some organization like that to work on some educational program over the offseason.  I'm sure there are plenty of organizations that could come up with something more productive than a suspension.

Lack of malice goes to consequences, not if it is acceptable or not. Don't see anyone arguing that making slant eyes at anyone is appropriate behavior for the Astros. Really doubt Nori Aoki was subjected to any racism whatsoever by Yuli or any other player. Yuli immediately said he was sorry and offered to apologize to Yu personally. Darvish doesn't seem to think that is necessary. Darvish seems like a grown man. Seemed to me that Hinch and by association the Astros organization immediately repudiated Yuli's acts. These apologies and repudiations strike me as sincere. Pearl Harbor, Korematsu v U.S., Hiroshima and Nagasaki are mutually forgiven if not entirely forgotten--we're all friends now--friends who play baseball. Think the ADL is a great organization, and involving it in school-yard nonsense like this (the act and the uproar around it) is beneath the ADL and similar organizations. No harm, no foul, play ball.

164

Talk Zone / Re: Yuli Suspension?

« on: October 28, 2017, 09:07:14 am »

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-dodgers-hernandez-20171027-story,amp.html

Interesting article from a guy who is half Hispanic half japanese

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

Great article. Racism and prejudice do not translate across cultures. Im inclined to think that what yuli did had zero malice. Lived in Mexico twice...chino is not an insult--used for anyone who has an "Asian" appearance regardless of heritage and is given and received without offense. Grateful that this journalist used his personal perspective to had some subtlety to the situation. And also to darvish for laughing off the incident.

165

Talk Zone / Re: The BIG STAGE

« on: October 26, 2017, 05:30:22 pm »

Houston is always a baseball town.  It's not always an Astros town.

that's it, exactly.

Most of my friends in Houston who love baseball follow the Cardinals, or Yankees, or Cubs,  Red Sox, or even the Pirates. All of my brothers love the Rangers. One was honest with me and admitted that he is rooting for the Dodgers--doesn't want the Astros to get a WS win before Arlington does. So yes, I want Houston to be an Astros baseball town.

166

Talk Zone / Re: Another Reason to Love AJ

« on: October 26, 2017, 05:00:12 pm »

Goddamn.  Cabrera'ed.
[/quote
no man, thanks! missed the earlier the post about this. And you are absolutely right. I love the guy even more...easy going, until he's not. I can relate to that pretty easily.

167

Talk Zone / The BIG STAGE

« on: October 26, 2017, 04:51:47 pm »

I was thrilled that the Astros road to the World Series went through Boston and New York. They are great teams with a national fan base full of history and tradition. The national market noticed when the Astros won game seven against the Yankees, which would not have been much of a story if the Astros beat Cleveland. Sorry Cleveland, but the country is accustomed to you loosing.

And I am delighted that the Astros are playing the Dodgers. It is easy to say, beat L.A., and mean it. And L.A. and the Dodgers are another big market, big payroll, long history team. People are finally getting to see what Springer, and Altuve, and Correa are all about. And Houston too. A lot of people think of Houston as a backwater submerged trump loving swamp, most likely underwater and in need of pity. I am so proud of the city and hope the national attention helps to frame how awesome and resilient this region and this team are.

More than national recognition, I hope this team can turn Houston into a baseball town. I love seeing all the Astros gear that people are wearing. I love when neighbors ask me the score. I love when someone is a real baseball fan and gets excited about the Astros. Because that's what bothered me the most about the AL move--most of the market was oblivious or indifferent. There is no tradition of loving the home team. I don't have hate for any baseball fan, not even Yankee fan when he's pouring beer on the family of the visiting manager. Sure, he's a classless shit, but he's stupid, and a yankee, and doesn't know any better. And he loves baseball and his team so all right.  But someday I'd like Houston to have a lot of people who grew up loyal to the Astros and know the stories of the old greats who played and maybe don't pay so much attention to the Texans until after the home team is done for the year.
 

168

Talk Zone / Re: Giardi, Yankees parting ways

« on: October 26, 2017, 03:57:40 pm »

I envision Hinch managing another couple of years and moving into a front office position. Hopefully with the Astros.

No doubt that Hinch can score a front office job if that's the goal. Seems like a guy who is doing the job he wants most, though it may lack something in the way of job security.

169

Talk Zone / Re: An Appreciation of Dave Roberts

« on: October 26, 2017, 03:33:34 pm »

I think this is more the case.  The Diamondbacks and Cubs don't vaunt like the Astros do.

I'm sure that is what Girardi and Farrell said too.

170

Talk Zone / Re: Springer's At-Bats

« on: October 26, 2017, 03:16:47 pm »

ARod talks about himself.  I have no interest in him.  See also Papi, Big.

I like Hernandez. He is capable of  interesting commentary and analysis--diminished by the company he keeps. ARod is horrible, slick and fake. Ortiz, not much there but seems like a nice enough guy, fun at parties. Thomas...very good baseball player.
Like Smoltz too, which is really weird considering how much I hated that man in the 90's.

171

Talk Zone / Re: Giardi, Yankees parting ways

« on: October 26, 2017, 03:03:02 pm »

I guess that whole pouring beer on his family was a recruiting ploy.

And here I was upset at Yankee fan. I didn't see NY firing their  manager and going after Hinch. Now I appreciate yankee fan making it extra hard for Hinch to talk his family into letting him take the NY offer.  funny world. Really hope Cora is the only guy that the other teams hire away. Hope Hinch and Luhnow are here for a long time.

172

Talk Zone / Re: An Appreciation of Dave Roberts

« on: October 26, 2017, 02:54:23 pm »

Alex Wood is starting Game 4 which may push the strap on imagery to new heights.

...or depths....

And Puig is taking a man's relationship with his bat to new places...well, at least in public...errr, national television? Now I am feeling like I am probably a massive old-fashioned bigot because I don't know the correct terminology to describe the love between Puig and his preferred partner.   

173

Talk Zone / Re: Gameday Special

« on: October 26, 2017, 02:39:09 pm »

For the record, I made a salad of romaine, quinoa, avocado, mushrooms and feta with a homemade balsamic vinegar / white wine dressing.

If you're going to Beat L A ...

no Kale?

174

Talk Zone / Re: An Appreciation of Dave Roberts

« on: October 26, 2017, 02:35:27 pm »

I'm not sure why you're starting a pitcher in Game #2 of the World Series who is going to go, at best, 5 innings, without a plan to get through the next 4 (or 7, as it turned out).  Maeda made sense as the replacement, but he was lifted after only 1 1/3rd innings for a lefty-lefty matchup.  While that one at-bat worked out (McCann GIDP'd), it meant he now had to go elsewhere to start the 7th, and that meant Stripling who pitched four straight balls before being lifted for Morrow.  Having to go to Morrow early begat going to Jansen early which begat the Astros' rally which begat a soul-crushing loss.

So, in many ways, lifting Hill wasn't the problem; it was lifting Maeda for the crime of allowing a single baserunner.

I was glad to see Maeda go...
Wonder how long a leash Darvish gets? Doubt too many players get see him twice. And who is LA starting in game 4. I am really interested in seeing what the lineup does at home, after a game like that.

175

Talk Zone / Re: Devo

« on: October 26, 2017, 12:47:03 pm »

It turned out not to matter since he scored anyway, but I thought the Dodgers caught another break when Bregman's double deflected over the short fence leading off the 8th.  If it ricochets off that fence and gets past Puig, Alex is definitely on third and might circle the bases if Taylor's not backing up (which a lot of CFs don't on a play like that).

Thought that Springer scores if not for the cap. Apparently Hinch thought so too, AND Believes in the BBGs:

"We were pretty unlucky at the beginning of the game when [Chris Taylor] dove in center field and the ball hit him in the face or head and kicked to [Joc] Pederson. I felt like the baseball gods were returning the favor by having an umpire standing in the way there."

All good. EPIC game.

176

Talk Zone / Re: Marwin in the 9th

« on: October 26, 2017, 12:29:04 pm »

I called Giles coughing up the tying runs.

And I could call you a lot of things, right now. you are really tempting my manners, Sir.

Not for calling the runs, but for focusing on the negative after  one of the most exciting, most historic games in Astros History. Very first World Series Win.

Look at the great, rare, and amazing things that happened in that game. The Astros bullpen struggling to close out a game ain't new or remarkable. The Astros bats coming to life for some WS heroics against a previously perfect bullpen is the story I prefer to notice. 

177

Talk Zone / Re: Devo

« on: October 26, 2017, 12:16:06 pm »

Never mind. That's right. Springer would have scored - maybe Bergman too.

Fuck man, no one KNOWS what would happen...but a few people cheering for the Astros were thinking about that fucking cap until MarWIN ties it up in the ninth and earns the player of the game belt presented by his grateful teammates.

Read how Verlander kept standing in the same spot watching the game on a monitor...the exact spot where he was standing when MarWin hit his epic clutch game saving HR...and watched Altuve, Correa, and Springer all do the same. Stay the course gents. stay the course.

178

Talk Zone / Re: Devo

« on: October 26, 2017, 11:15:07 am »

The ball hitting Taylor's cap in the third is what I might point out to a Dodger fan who thought the Astros won because of a lucky break. Both teams had them last night. What an insane game.

179

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: World Series Game 2, Astros @ Dodgers, Oct. 25, 2017

« on: October 25, 2017, 08:48:57 pm »

puig is crazy. I like him. makes Yuli's hair seem a little tame.

180

Talk Zone / Re: times like these ...

« on: October 25, 2017, 03:33:12 pm »

I can't help but think about movie prayers:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-e9bZD86s3g

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBMY3VV5AMA

By Crom these are good prayers...thanks for the inspiration. Hope the following helps you gain a little perspective on yesterday's game.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9mf3Bypyk8

181

Talk Zone / Re: Reddick

« on: October 23, 2017, 05:30:58 pm »

There were relievers booed from time to time during the Wilderness Years.

glad I missed that.

I remember back in the dome a couple of Braves relievers got up and started to get ready along the third base line. Some guys started to heckle them, but someone with the Astros (don't remember who) told them to cut it out. One of the relievers had come up in the Astros system (hey, he used to be one of our guys). But I thought it was classy that he said something. Let Yankee fans, (and apparently Dodger fans) be classless idiots.

Some visiting players invite being heckled (like Beltran for stringing the Astros along in the 2004 off-season) but most (like Judge) don't.

182

Talk Zone / Re: Reddick

« on: October 23, 2017, 04:17:45 pm »

Great article. I cannot imagine booing a home team player.

Only time I recall an Astro getting booed was Jimy Williams. Not a great moment and glad its not part of Houston fan culture.

183

Talk Zone / Re: The Umps

« on: October 23, 2017, 03:44:09 pm »

That was my reaction too.  I read the list getting ready to be pissed off, but after pulling the Angel short straw and then a series with Jerry Meals and Jim fucking Reynolds back to back it's a bit of a relief to have actually qualified umpires.

I appreciate the subjectivity that is unavoidably involved with human umpires, and  I am against the whole robot umpire argument. Still why can't the massive improvements in identifying exactly where the ball is when it crosses the plate lead to better training of umpires? Some of these guys simply do not perform well and it is easy for all to see. An inconsistent strike zone is shameful. Never umpired, but it does seem like a lot of umpires quietly and consistently keep all of the attention on the players and the game, while some become a bizarre sideshow. Why does MLB allow the consistently bad ones to remain? Especially in the post-season...

184

Talk Zone / Re: Cora

« on: October 23, 2017, 03:33:11 pm »

Isn’t that highly irrregular? To make such an announcement before the World Series, especially since he is still actively working?

I don't know what etiquette requires but it was no secret that Cora was interviewing for the position and won't affect what he does during the next series. I'm just happy for him. Reflects well on the organization.

That said I hope that Crane is keeping Luhnow very happy.
Crane, Luhnow, and Hinch all made themselves look good at the award Ceremony.   

185

Talk Zone / Re: Hinch

« on: October 23, 2017, 03:26:02 pm »

I have not been watching Hinch as long as most of you but damn did he make himself look good in game seven. Thought the way he managed Morton and McCullers was brilliant--I was expecting Peacock to follow Morton.  Hinch seems like an unassuming servant leader. Don't know his background--has he managed in the N.L? (just--answered my own question-Diamondbacks).

 It's still  strange to be in the A.L.--Astros beat the Yanks in a seven game series (like i've wanted for years) and they are not the World Series Champions? It's just weird.

Also not looking forward to seeing Keuchel  or Verlander (or anyone else from the bullpen) with a bat in their hands. Curious to see how Hinch manages the team with the N.L. rules. Expect this to be the hardest series yet, as it should be, but these players (and Hinch) have me believing they can do it. 

186

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Game 7

« on: October 21, 2017, 01:40:13 pm »

Hope you guys have a blast. This has been an amazing series. Im at the beach (surfside) but its so hard to think about anything other than the game. So Im not bothering to try anymore. 

187

Talk Zone / Re: Verducci

« on: October 20, 2017, 03:04:40 pm »

Half the lines in the movie pop into my head at random times in response to something I've seen or heard.

For example, the logo on the batting cages at MMP says "NIttotires".

For the faithful:

From The Book of Armaments 2:9-21

Brother: "And the Lord spake, saying, First shalt
               thou take out the Holy Pin.

               Then, shalt thou count to three, no more,
               no less.

              Three shalt be the number thou shalt
              count, and the number of the counting
              shalt be three.

              Four shalt thou not count,
              nor either count thou two, excepting that
              thou then proceed to three.

              Five is right out.

              Once the number three,
              being the third number, be reached, then
              lobbest thou thy Holy Hand Grenade of
              Antioch towards thy foe, who being
              naughty in my sight, shall snuf it."

Maynard: Amen.

          All: Amen.

    Arthur: Right! One. . . two. . . five!

188

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Series Previews - Astros/Yankees

« on: October 20, 2017, 02:48:11 pm »

Game 6 preview is up if you're into sniffing glue.

After a childhood of huffing paint and glue I wanted to try something a little darker and became an Astros fan. It's easier on the remaining brain cells, but its harder on the heart.

Thanks again Waldo. I think you covered everything thoroughly.

189

Talk Zone / Re: Gameday Special

« on: October 20, 2017, 02:17:31 pm »

One beer down. Frito chili pie  and another beer as soon as I get back from the river bank where I will burn wood--which I'm fixin' to do. I'm not going to wear ladies panties but I have a Marwin T-Shirt over a Houston Strong T-Shirt.

you certainly don't want to risk ruining your good panties after all that beer and Frito pie. Those things aren't cheap.

190

Talk Zone / Re: Gameday Special

« on: October 20, 2017, 10:00:03 am »

Will there be an Astros game tomorrow? No idea. But I do know what I am having for dinner. Love games like this...everything on the line with a mostly amazing team lead by a veteran ace. Go Astros. Best wishes to all tonight.

191

Talk Zone / Re: Game 6

« on: October 19, 2017, 05:27:59 pm »

pretty good Veteran lineup. Shame it didn't work out with that group.

Just noticed something--both starting catchers in the 2004 NLCS series went on to be Managers (Ausmus and Matheny). Matheny has lost to Boston in the World Series as a Manager and a Player.

192

Talk Zone / Re: Game 6

« on: October 19, 2017, 04:01:56 pm »

I'm almost certain. Without looking it up, my guess would be:
Biggio LF
Beltran CF
Berkman RF
Bagwell 1B
Kent 2B
Ensberg/Lamb 3B
Vizcaino SS (AE injured)
Ausmus C
(pitcher) P

your memory/guesswork is awesome, but it doesn't have to be--look up a couple of posts.

193

Talk Zone / Re: Game 6

« on: October 19, 2017, 03:43:04 pm »

Is your point that 106 wins a new team record for combined regular and postseason victories? That's a good point. They are a better than team than the disappointing NY games suggest. 

But the number I keep thinking about is eleven. Not five postseason victories, or seven. I want them to turn the fog machine to eleven. 

194

Talk Zone / Re: Game 6

« on: October 19, 2017, 03:24:09 pm »

I didn't remember him batting 2nd. Between Biggio and Bagwell I suppose.
[/quote
http://m.mlb.com/news/article/212093354/carlos-beltrans-2004-october-still-a-wonder/

Article about Beltran in 04. Good quotes from Bagwell, Ausmus, Hunsicker. I was wondering if Beltran's performance had been over-glamorized in my memory--if anything I was giving him less credit than he deserved. Probably got colored by the disappointment of him signing with the Mets. Hope Beltran can do something for the team on the field in this League series.

195

Talk Zone / Re: Game 6

« on: October 19, 2017, 02:31:11 pm »

I think they should start Beltran in CF, batting 2nd, so he'll get confused and play like it's the '04 LCS.

that would be nice. And Beltran's  glove his waiting for him out there, in its grave.

196

Talk Zone / Re: Game 6

« on: October 19, 2017, 10:09:15 am »

Anybody got a live chicken?

on it. and Jobu likes Rum.
I am completely mystified by these Astros. Not shocked by the bullpen blowing game 4--that happens--you bounce back if you are fortunate enough to still have a tomorrow and fight harder. I did not see any fight at all yesterday. I have no idea what to think when the offense that beat the Red Sox simply does not show up in NY. It's not the opposing pitchers. What can a manager do when an elite offense abruptly goes dark when it matters most?

197

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 5: Astros @ Yankees, Oct 18, 2017

« on: October 18, 2017, 05:22:46 pm »

Our vaunted offense needs a quick meeting in the tunnel that goes something like this:

Correa: we gotta pull our heads out of our collective asses and get some runs now.

Altuve: ok, let's do it!

Or
Correa: Porque nos chupamos una verga?
Altuve:No lo se hermano, pero NO MAS!
Yuli? Oye, vamos!
Bregman: Does that mean hit the ball?
Yuli: Si, cabron Si..heet the fucking ball. Heet it.,..

198

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 5: Astros @ Yankees, Oct 18, 2017

« on: October 18, 2017, 05:13:20 pm »

Altuve's average dropped to .313 after his last at bat. This is higher than Beltran, McCann, Springer, and Reddick's combined. WTF?

199

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 5: Astros @ Yankees, Oct 18, 2017

« on: October 18, 2017, 05:03:22 pm »

Is the principal from the breakfast club sitting first row behind home plate on the right?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

probably not. http://people.com/celebrity/breakfast-club-actor-dies-of-lung-cancer/

200

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 5: Astros @ Yankees, Oct 18, 2017

« on: October 18, 2017, 04:12:32 pm »

I hate those orange jerseys.

I hate those cans. And 4 p.m. start times.

201

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 5: Astros @ Yankees, Oct 18, 2017

« on: October 18, 2017, 03:54:24 pm »

Keuchel's beard?

awesome.

202

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 5: Astros @ Yankees, Oct 18, 2017

« on: October 18, 2017, 03:52:53 pm »

Here's hoping that it's the south side of the north-south divide that has the joy today.  I want us to be in the joy division.

Funny that you said that...I was just hexing a little origami doll of Mr. Tanka while singing "she's lost control" to it. RIP I.C.

203

Talk Zone / Re: Morton

« on: October 18, 2017, 12:04:31 pm »

Thanks. the statistical analysis is beyond me but I enjoyed reading about  the special the feeling in the 2017 Astros clubhouse--hard to quantify but easy to perceive when its there.

204

Talk Zone / Re: McCullers

« on: October 18, 2017, 10:24:25 am »

I hope he gets to pitch again soon.  Like, next week.

And I hope he gets an at bat...

205

Talk Zone / Re: McCullers

« on: October 18, 2017, 09:49:26 am »

Right, none of us knows what was said between innings or what the plan was, but it appeared to be “go as hard as you can for as long as you can.”  We don’t know the “as you can” part, but I’ll say from personal experience, McCullers would have had an understandably difficult time being honest and objective about coming out after the home run. I still cannot believe Judge hit that pitch. It was a get ahead curve, but still. He has beenhelpless on. breaking pitches.

Today I wish Hinch had given him another hitter, but I think that is nothing but hindsight after the implosion. At the time, I had confidence Devo-Musgrove-Giles would close it out. I read the GZ this morning, and there was not a single objection to the decision at the time. I am not going to second guess him today or blame him for the loss. Our front line pitchers did not do their jobs. The one I am baffled by is Musgrove. I thought he would blow them away in the 8th.

I was delighted LMJ pitched so well for so many innings. McCullers has not been "healthy" since I've started following the team again and nowI understand why he is so frustrating. Disappointed by the bullpen but so glad to see the offense start to come back to life. On a happy note, two neighbors walking by asked me if I happened to know the score to the ballgame. I told them and they hurried back to their house to watch it (it was just after Yuli's bit hit). Nice to see so much interest in the Astros.

206

Talk Zone / Re: McCullers

« on: October 17, 2017, 03:35:51 pm »

Nothing I said was close to the "Astros are fucked."  I'm sharing my opinion, just like everyone else.

Obviously, you have a problem with that.  One of the many reasons I stay away from this place for long periods of time.

My bad.  Won't happen again.

I doubt anyone has a problem with you, sometimes people just reach for the Drax the Destroyer manual of semantic interpretation when another might be more useful.

Personally, I hope McCullers throws a no hitter, which  I wish for everyone in an Astros Uniform while pitching in NY. Did not think McCullers would get a postseason start.  It would also be nice if people not named Correa and Altuve hit the ball now and then. That would be cool too.

207

Talk Zone / Re: Anybody wanna change leagues again...

« on: October 17, 2017, 02:34:28 pm »

Yankees get a 10-game head start every year.
[/quotes]
Sounds fair, I'm sure Boston and the rest can live with that easily enough.

208

Talk Zone / Re: Anybody wanna change leagues again...

« on: October 17, 2017, 11:20:25 am »

yes, I would. I hate that there are so many late games against  division rivals not based in Arlington. Having the majority of the away games in the central time zone would be wonderful, and I really miss the Astros playing the Cubs and the Cardinals. The plan seems so reasonable it makes me nervous. What am I missing?

209

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Series Previews - Astros/Yankees

« on: October 16, 2017, 06:51:05 pm »

What the fuck is wrong with you?

I don't have a beer and I am not in front of a t.v. set covering a sporting event in N.Y.--but I can fix this. Other than that I feel great, but thanks for asking.

210

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Series Previews - Astros/Yankees

« on: October 16, 2017, 04:41:39 pm »

I think he's pretty clearly switched to being obnoxious now.

The fine line between exuberant and insufferable.

+1

211

Talk Zone / Re: Yuli looks like...

« on: October 16, 2017, 03:20:50 pm »

a damn hit man...Love it!

https://twitter.com/astros/status/920010828258177024

flew in some outside talent to finish the job. Wonder who the scapegoat is going to be? Won't see him around no more.

212

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Series Previews - Astros/Yankees

« on: October 16, 2017, 03:18:54 pm »

You are wrong.  I stopped reading the rest of your post.  They deserve to be here because they have won their games!

BG you don't need to tell me I'm wrong. You are right. I am wrong. We can assume that from now on but remind me as much as you feel I need it. See, I was married once. I know how this works.
The Astros deserve everything baby. And So do you. I was a bad, bad man to say those bad, wrong things and I am sorry.

213

Talk Zone / Re: Game Watch Tonight

« on: October 16, 2017, 03:08:21 pm »

There's no truth to the rumor that Roeder's had to be sold because Chuck's pacing inside and outside the bar had caused irreparable foundation damage.

Understood. I frequent the area (I recently lived a mile away from Shepard and Alabama) and forgot about Roeder's.  I have a late meeting tonight in the Heights but will find somewhere to watch in the area. My girlfriend can't understand my behavior. She jokingly threatened to wear Ranger's panties to troll me. She backed off that idea pretty fast when she realized that there is some crazy best left alone. She's trying now...she knows that Pickle throws left-handed and has a beard and doesn't pitch every day and there is another guy I like who they traded for and he pitched the whole game and that little guy is really fast...she was real disappointed to learn there is more baseball tonight--how much can there be? Just 2-5 more games, and maybe 4-7 after that...you never know.

214

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Series Previews - Astros/Yankees

« on: October 16, 2017, 02:37:41 pm »

Each game is going to get tougher.

You and JimR are absolutely right. This NY team is talented and is very close in ability to the Astros. Yankees could easily have been up 2-0. Potential MVP Aaron Judge and the cast of all-star young talent and established veterans around him  have already won a bunch of elimination games against an impressive Cleveland team. The Yankees have already overcome an 0-2 deficit to defeat an arguably better than the Astros Cleveland Team.  And its only going to get harder for these Astros who really don't deserve to be here. Honestly, they were so bad they got kicked out of their old league. Really, they're just some southern refugee of a team that should get to play against a real franchise. There should be a wall.
Albeit, reasonable people may say and think these things..but this ain't the mutherfuckinyankee's  time. This ain't their beach. Yankee don't surf on Altuve's beach. Yankee don't surf at all!!!!! New york's all right if you want to freeze to death. New York's all right if you like Saxaphones! Yankees got to win four games against this team before the Astros can win two....hahahahahahahahhahahahahhahahahahahahahahahaha. Sleep easy yankee fan....here the Astros come all despacito and shit but you will hear those bats and then the soft foot falls of Astros feet making the rounds in a quiet quiet city. Just can't feel anything but joy that the Astros are playing this well against a great team. Don't care if the Astros win in 4,5,6, or seven games.
The Astros will see these fuckers a few more times in the postseasons to come...which reminds me of one of the reasons I hate being in the the AL less...getting to spoil the Yankees postseason plans is one of the best things ever about being in this stupid fucking league. Beating the Bronx Bombers in NY  behind Keuchel was AMAZING. Still didn't bring me around, but it gave me a lot of fucking glee to see the Astros play more baseball than NYY in 2015. I'm thinking that after all the hurt Keuchel puts them through in the postseason they make him uber rich after 2018 just to make sure they can't loose to him in October anymore. But there's a lot of post season innings left before now and then Yankee fan. You've got your opponent just where you want them, up 2-0 and all over-confident and shit. Who wants it more? I see the Astros coming. They are coming to take it.   
 

215

Talk Zone / Re: Game Watch Tonight

« on: October 16, 2017, 01:57:02 pm »

What ever you do, please do not gather at the CVS at W. Alabama and Shepherd.

guessing this is an inside joke...was this address given instead of the Alabama Ice House or somewhere else nearby?

216

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Series Previews - Astros/Yankees

« on: October 16, 2017, 12:36:43 pm »

To me Altuve's Mad Dash was more exciting because (1) the hits came off one of the best closers in the game who was throwing 100 mph (2) you had 10 second of the play developing to build excitement to (3) realizing that Altuve wasn't slowing down at third and (4) the throw was going to beat him but (4) HOLY SHIT WE WON THE GAME!

Kent's home run was awesome but as soon as he swung it was over.  That ten seconds of excitement and drama as Altuve wheeled around the bases was simply unbelievable.

Thank you Waldo!

I am with Bench on this. Altuve's insane elven fucking magic run where he kept getting faster while the catcher bobbles the throw for the only second that Altuve needs to fly the rest of the way home  was far more memorable in my book. Altuve flying past third was as miraculous as Dunkirk but lasted three seconds instead of three days.  And then there is Verlander. So no, not even close by the way I score it.

But this also reminds me a little of Richard Pryor. According to Mr. Pryor, the best piece of pussy he ever had was always the last pussy he had. ANd I don't even like Jeff Kent now...so yeah the Correa/Pettis/Altuve RBI  is my favorite postseason winning play...EVER.

217

Talk Zone / Re: Verducci

« on: October 16, 2017, 12:22:33 pm »

I did in 1969. We were going to face a flamethrower who I scouted the week before we played them, and he struck out all 21 hitters in a perfect game. I noticed he never threw a curve for a strike, but the opponent chased a lot of them.

We had an open date and Monday-Thursday to prepare. Their instructions were to recognize the curve and take it and to swing only at fastballs. I moved the L screen to 30 feet and threw as hard as I could from there. On Monday they thought I was crazy and was asking the impossible, but by Thursday they were taking curves even not knowing what I was throwing, and their shorter quicker swings were putting my fastball in play.

On Friday we won 10-0 and hit a couple of homers.

That's brilliant. Thanks for the article and the personal story.

Can't ever tell what's really going on with someone but the Astros lineup does not seem intimidated by any pitcher. It was pitching and defense that won the last two games, and doing a dozen other little things well--but damn they get their hits in regardless of who is throwing and how nasty or fast the ball moves.

218

Talk Zone / Re: Yankee Gorveling...

« on: October 16, 2017, 12:18:00 pm »

You can't overpower supreme fastball hitters with a supreme fastball.  Both Altuve and Correa got solid wood on Chapman (NTTAWWT).

But I love that they still try.

219

Talk Zone / Re: Enjoy it while you can

« on: October 16, 2017, 12:15:29 pm »

yep. I am enjoying it.

I am aware that your favorite team can get punked in the Division Series by the Braves whenever they avoid a September collapse.
I am aware that your favorite team  can fight like hell to make it to the World Series and get swept.
I am aware that a man can own a professional baseball franchise and not understand the role of the farm system in creating a competitive franchise.
I am aware that MLBcan force your team into a new league, severing it from the heart of its tradition and history.
I am aware that trades, free agency, and injuries can make a bright future go dark. 

 The plan that brought you here won't keep you here. I trust that the front office people are changing the way they are playing the game to adapt to the very different situation they were in when they started. Really doubt with the current owner and GM will need to do the scorched earth that they had to do five years ago. They will trade popular players. Not everyone named Keuchel, Correa, or Altuve will retire wearing an Astros uniform. I am fine with that. They can be like Roy Oswalt and Lance Bekman and sign a one day contract when they retire. So yeah, there will be rebuilding years, but hopefully never an noncompetitive fucking decade. 

But the Astros time is now. So glad I am alive to see this. And I am enjoying the hell out of this. Hope you are too.

220

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALCS Game 2: Yankees @ Astros Oct 14, 2017

« on: October 16, 2017, 11:50:45 am »

http://www.nhregister.com/news/article/Inside-the-Astros-crazy-gamble-and-the-Yankees-12279810.php

God that was a beautiful game. I woke up and watched the last play at 6am again today. Great Article, thanks for sharing. This was one of my favorite baseball games, ever. So many amazing moments, love how all the little things added up to the Astros winning two hard fought games. So happy for all of you who were able to be there in person.

221

Talk Zone / Re: Happy Playoffs!

« on: October 13, 2017, 12:49:47 pm »

I did not say I am not happy to see him. I was speaking to his post.

Got no problem with you or what you said--my post is directed to STROSrays. I am just freaking thrilled about how Astros baseball is alive in MY fucking heart right now.
Had breakfast with all three of my boys today. The oldest one drove the younger two to meet me before I went into the office and they went to school. We spent most of the breakfast talking about the ALCS. The older two talked about me taking them to the last home game the Astros played in the NL, they are grateful that I took them to that. They want me to take them to more games next season and they want to watch the series.
As you know, sharing a passion for a team with family and friends is the best part of being a fan. Dark Stars' column was a favorite back in the day. If he needs to lob weak ass "I'm happy for you, the living" shit for a decade or two, I don't mind--just delighted he's at the table.
   

222

Talk Zone / Re: Happy Playoffs!

« on: October 13, 2017, 12:19:44 pm »

The Link

BUT He's STROSrays, he's STROSrays!
whatever it may say on whatever ID he hands to whatever government official happens to be asking, THIS man is STROSrays and its great to have him post, regardless of how cold inside he may momentarily feel.

Shit man, a chance to beat the Yankees and the red sox in the same fucking post season. THIS is fucking awesome. I am more excited about this than any post season series I've watched the Astros play in.

and I am only Glad that STROSrays is around to say hello...sure he may be singing "I'm a Darkstar I'm a Darkstar" with a bowiesque goodbye to all that melancholy in his voice but fuck...where there is life there is hope....ad ASTROS per ardua! Glad to see you around STROSrays!

223

Talk Zone / Re: Gameday Special

« on: October 13, 2017, 10:16:17 am »

Fucking awesome Neil T.
I'm heading off to JCL for mine today. GO ASTROS!!!!!!!

224

Talk Zone / Re: Sale

« on: October 12, 2017, 09:46:21 am »

I had a similar (I think) conversation w/ Ensberg once, and the easy way to ask about it is to ask about what it was like to play in the WS.  He opened up from there.   I love everything Morgan's done for this organization since then.  He's been key in the development of several of the hitters on the current club.

That's wonderful to hear. Glad that Ensberg has been involved with the club and is doing well.

225

Talk Zone / Re: Indians or Yankees?

« on: October 12, 2017, 09:34:15 am »

The Indians llost to a good team.  Sometimes it's just that simple: you lose.  There doesn't have to be an underlying, psychological explanation.

The way the Yankees won three in a row after the way they lost G2 is truly impressive.

+1
And the way the Astros kept Boston from winning two must-win games in a row was pretty nice too.

226

Talk Zone / Re: Sale

« on: October 11, 2017, 05:23:14 pm »

I have gotten to know him a little bit. He did not fail because he was afraid.

So what happened? Very interested in what Ensberg has to say about his WS experience. BTW--not casting aspersions on his character in any way. I liked him as a player and the few times I've heard him speak he seemed like a thoughtful and genuine person. But I strongly remember dreading every one of his at bats in the WS and wondered why he was not replaced when it seemed to my unprofessional eyes that he was not the same guy who he had been earlier in the season.

227

Talk Zone / Re: Sale

« on: October 11, 2017, 04:52:53 pm »

Incidentally, I was looking for a more appropriate place to post this in the GZ of the game, as I recall someone saying that, love of Biggio and Bagwell aside, the current crop's a little better in the postseason, but Altuve surpassed Bagwell's postseason home run total in Game 1.

not a stat guy but I watched Mr. Bagwell in hundreds and hundreds of games and he simply was not a close and late kind of guy. Many years he carried the team offensively. But I think he held a record at one point for the most HRs in the league without a grand slam. Always thought that he put to much pressure on himself. Made Mr. Bagwell a hall of fame guy and one of my favorite all-time players. And as you well know, his beard, is in fact, one of the BBG's. But it didn't help him in clutch situations. Never doubted he wanted it. Never doubted he had put in the hours and hours preparation. Contrast that with the "Big Puma"--didn't really seem to care to much about the score or the number of outs in an inning. But he sure did hit a few game changing hits now and then. My favorite was one that kept a championship out of Arlington--God bless you Lance. 

228

Talk Zone / Re: Sale

« on: October 11, 2017, 04:38:09 pm »

I think you have a chance of surpassing Ensberg's post-season numbers.

yes. I could get hit by a pitch.

Ensberg's stare is an emblematic memory of the 2005 WS. Could not understand why they kept sending out a guy who so obviously wanted to be anywhere on earth but holding a bat. I get how he was one of the reasons they got the postseason. Hope he has thrived afterwards--Ensberg seemed like a classy guy who fell apart offensively at a really unfortunate time. 

229

Talk Zone / Re: "I could hear the steps I was taking on the dirt it was so quiet..."

« on: October 11, 2017, 01:07:32 pm »

Great article, thanks for the link. So cool that he got to do that in Fenway. Makes me hope the Astros face the Yankees even more.

230

Talk Zone / Re: Strasburg...

« on: October 11, 2017, 12:43:33 pm »

Strasburg couldn't take the heat feels better, starting Game 4 after all

Good for him, now he won't be famous for not showing up at the big game forever.

231

Talk Zone / Re: Non-fiction baseball book recommendations

« on: October 11, 2017, 10:25:20 am »

I read a book a year or so ago called the Cheater's Guide to Baseball, by Derek Zumsteg.  It was short, and now with video review somewhat dated, but it was a nice discussion of everything from grounds maintenance to signs to spitballs to doping.  I enjoyed it, thought Zumsteg's insights into the morality of the game were sound, and learned something about the game as a whole by reading about how players and teams cheated. 

Buzz Bissinger wrote a book about Tony Larussa about ten years ago called Three Nights in August.  It followed LaRussa for a three-game series against the Cubs.  I'm not sure it taught me much about baseball, but its depiction of Larussa's obsession and intensity was unforgettable.   

ETA:  this was on AndyZ's list as well.

Thanks Neil, Both of these sound fantastic. 

232

Talk Zone / Re: Sale

« on: October 11, 2017, 09:58:55 am »

Bregman had the third-highest OPS for an Astros third-baseman this season behind only Ensberg (2005) and Caminiti (1994).  Not bad for essentially a rookie.   

Really glad the Astros didn't trade him.

Think Bregman has a chance of surpassing Ensberg's post season numbers.

233

Talk Zone / Re: Non-fiction baseball book recommendations

« on: October 10, 2017, 02:07:26 pm »

I recently read "The Only Rule Is It Has to Work", which describes how two of the Baseball Prospectus guys effectively became the co-GM of an independent team for a season.  I thought it was a good look into what does and doesn't work about an almost purely analytics-driven approach to the game.

thank you..will definitely read this...

234

Talk Zone / Re: Non-fiction baseball book recommendations

« on: October 10, 2017, 02:00:41 pm »

My favorites, in no particular order:

Ball Four
Big Hair and Plastic Grass
Joe, You Could Made Us Proud
Five Seasons
Boys of Summer
The Wrong Stuff
Seasons in Hell
Dock Ellis in the Country of Baseball
Veeck - As in Wreck
Only The Baseball Was White
The Bronx Zoo
Baseball's Great Experiment: Jackie Robinson
Moneyball
Three Nights in August
The Catcher Was A Spy
Well Paid Slave
Boys of Summer
A Great and Glorious Game
Lords of the Realm
Our Game
Eight Men Out
Can't Anybody Here Play This Game?
Stars And Strikes

Damn Andy that is quite a list. I've heard of a few of these (Ball Four, Catcher was a Spy, Lords of the Realm) but haven't read any of them. Think I'll pick up Ball Four first. If you could recommend one, which would it be?

235

Talk Zone / Non-fiction baseball book recommendations

« on: October 10, 2017, 12:39:48 pm »

I've learned to appreciate baseball while watching the Astros play. Along the way a few books  have helped me understand and provide context for the game.
One that comes to mind is "Pure Baseball" by Keith Hernandez. It is a play by play analysis of a couple of games that helps explain what the managers and players are thinking during the course of a game. Doesn't provide the answers, but helps to highlight the questions.
At this point I am interested in the whole game. The macro/micro. Would love to learn which baseball books the OWA crowd reads about this great and glorious game.

236

Talk Zone / Re: Jim Crane

« on: October 10, 2017, 12:29:55 pm »

no aspersions directed toward Hun. Thanks for the clear analysis which matches my memory of the events too. Until Hunsicker left I didn't appreciate the role a GM plays on a baseball team. "Moneyball" and the contrast in the team's fortunes between Hunsiker and Purpurra provided a little education.

237

Talk Zone / Re: 2017 Postseason Bullpen Usage

« on: October 10, 2017, 12:16:38 pm »

I think that's the funniest show on TV, but this McDonald's backlash is ridiculous.

yes. and generating gobs of free press for the show and the clown. all hail the idiocracy.

238

Talk Zone / Re: 2017 Postseason Bullpen Usage

« on: October 10, 2017, 12:07:47 pm »

Simple, harmless discussion the day after a playoff game.  The horse will be served at a local Taco Bell shortly.

with Rick and Morty Szechuan sauce for select fans.

239

Talk Zone / Re: Jim Crane

« on: October 10, 2017, 11:54:04 am »

Crane is only the second owner I've known. He is easily better than Uncle Drayton.

Drayton grabbed the wheel a lot while Hunsicker was in the driver's seat.  Crane seems to give Luhnow the space he needs to be amazing. Hope that one of the many other teams that needs to rebuild doesn't steal Luhnow away. I want him to have a long and satisfying career in Houston.

240

Talk Zone / Re: 2017 Postseason Bullpen Usage

« on: October 10, 2017, 11:44:30 am »

Liriano pitching in an Astros uniform make my stomach churn. Hoping he is a stealth Astro in training.

I'd like to read about what other people think about using Verlander in relief. Bold move by Hinch. "WTF" captured my sentiments well when it happened. What do you think about using the game five starter for his very first start in middle relief in game four?

241

Talk Zone / Re: Indians or Yankees?

« on: October 10, 2017, 11:23:25 am »

I think the Indians and Astros are the class of the league and I want to beat the class of the league en route to the World Series. I'm for the Indians.

Fuck the fucking Yankees.

yeah. fuck the fucking yankees in a brand new orifice made with something sharp and rusty.  all the same I think it does more for the national reputation of the Astros if they beat NY. Cleveland does not exist as part of the national consciousness. People who know nothing about baseball know who the yankees are, while some might be surprised that Cleveland Ohio, the Indians, and their repulsive mascot exist outside of the imagination of the people who made the movie Major League.

I think this year's Astros (especially the post-July 31 2017 Astros that resulted from the Verlander deal) are the kind of team that can define a franchise on the national scene. I want for people to see how great they are and there will be a lot more eyes on the team if they play the Yankees. I am sick of all the people who show up and cheer the other team at Astros game. I'd like a lot less of that and believe that this team is good enough to earn some respect, and maybe some love too.

For clarity, I will only be delighted if the Yankees loose to the Indians. Every Yankee loss is a beautiful thing.  I simply want the Astros to get in on causing Yankee heartache. Go Astros.

242

Talk Zone / Re: ALDS Series Previews - Astros/Red Sox

« on: October 09, 2017, 10:25:51 pm »

Here's your Game 4 preview.

thanks again for the great previews. appreciated.

243

Talk Zone / Re: Carlos Beltran

« on: October 09, 2017, 10:24:16 pm »

I thought about this very thread after the double off the monster and Valpo's comment above. So glad Valpo can see the future and congrats to Carlos on that clutch hit!!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

me too. I kept thinking about Valpro's comment in Beltran's last at bat. I heard Valpro's imagined voice speak like a witch from Macbeth when I noticed that Mr. Kimbrel is right handed.

This team can hit anyone. Wonderful to see them hang on and come up with a great win in a hard fought game away. I do respect the Red Sox team--especially Mookie the theif Betts and his amazing defense--and wouldn't be suprised to see da Sox in another postseason series in 2018 or 2019 (all hail the BBG's).

Hope that the Yankee's hold on and beat the Indians in game five.  I would love for the Astros to have home field for the ALCS. Even more I want the national media to watch and judge the merits of both teams' mvp's.

244

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALDS Game 2 - Astros vs. Red Sox

« on: October 06, 2017, 04:24:19 pm »

BOT 7th - 8-1 Astros.  Austin Maddox relieves Reed, pitched yesterday and is Boston's 6th pitcher today.  Gurriel-Marwin-McCann due up

Yuli doing Yuli things, after nine pitches grounds to short and a Bogaerts double-clutch allows Yuli to reach.  Runner on 1st, 0 out, Marwin up

The feared Pomeranz 2017 post-season ERA: 18.000.
Which is not as good as 4 of his teammates who pitched today. He and Reed are tied.

245

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALDS Game 2 - Astros vs. Red Sox

« on: October 06, 2017, 04:11:41 pm »

My love for Bagwell/Biggio will never die.

But Altuve and Correa are SLIGHTLY better in the postseason.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

+!

246

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALDS Game 2 - Astros vs. Red Sox

« on: October 06, 2017, 02:44:12 pm »

Both incandescent at the plate but for me CF is so much more critical a defensive position.

it's early in the postseason, Altuve has only begun to silence those who would make the comparison to players not named Altuve. In the postseason, EL Senor Octuve may only be judged by God, and may be compared only to earlier and later Altuves. It is known.

247

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALDS Game 2 - Astros vs. Red Sox

« on: October 06, 2017, 02:36:45 pm »

And throwing shit around the dugout before heading for the showers.

classy end to his 2017 season.

248

Talk Zone / Re: ALDS -- Astros vs. Red Sox

« on: October 06, 2017, 01:49:35 pm »

Not to be argumentative, but 2017 is arguably the 2nd best offense the Astros have ever had.  2000 gets overlooked because the team was so, so bad.

2000 - .288/.372/.497, 1503 H, 281 2B, 248 HR, 508 BB, 989 Ks
2017 - .283/.374/.480, 1579 H, 345 2B, 238 HR, 664 BB, 1075 Ks
1998 - .289/.367/.453, 1523 H, 311 2B, 166 HR, 608 BB, 972 Ks
1994 - .283/.355/.459, 1049 H, 242 2B, 120 HR, 392 BB, 634 Ks

How dare you confront my irrational exuberance with cold, lifeless "facts"?
I loved the 1994 team. This one is better.
1998 was epic, in the regular season. This one is better. (Verlander already has more postseason wins than Johnson on the pitching front, and Altuve seems determined to own the October production records for his position).

2000...you are right, I completely forgot how good there offensive production was--especially since the other teams were having such great years too when they faced the Astros.

249

Beer and Queso / Re: RIP Tom Petty *

« on: October 06, 2017, 11:20:14 am »

Always seemed like a great person too. Heard a replay of an interview Terri Gross did with him on "Fresh Air." Amazing talent and skill and a stand up guy. like everyone else, "I won't back down," is a favorite and it plays in the background of my mind when I hear about the madness in Vegas.

250

Talk Zone / Re: Yesterday

« on: October 06, 2017, 11:02:45 am »

Thanks for that JimR! Glad you were able to go in person and in a style appropriate to your level of appreciation. Hope today's experience is equally epic.

251

Talk Zone / Re: ALDS -- Astros vs. Red Sox

« on: October 06, 2017, 10:58:32 am »

Was glad that A.J. Hinch used a lot of the guys in the bullpen yesterday---nice to see everyone get "blooded" for this postseason. And for those worried about Pomeranz...how do you feel about Doug Fister wearing a Boston uniform in game three? Personally, I think the new uni looks great on him.

252

Talk Zone / Re: ALDS -- Astros vs. Red Sox

« on: October 06, 2017, 10:51:41 am »

Since I've been a fan the Astros have gotten to the League championship exactly twice. And I take nothing for granted in any postseason game featuring the Astros. Pomeranz pitched well in his last start against the Astros. So what? That game meant a lot to Boston, nothing to the Astros. Boston had to give Houston a look at one of their starters and I'm glad that our lineup has seen Pomeranz recently. He can be hit, and I know this team will find a way. No idea who's today's heroes are going to be. Doesn't matter. This is a lethal row of batters who have patience and power. Springer struck out a lot yesterday...anyone worried that he his going to struggle today? I'm not. I think he's due for a early HR in the first to set the tone for the rest of a very long day for Mr. Pomeranz. Sale, Pomeranz...so what? The Astros are going to face a lot of great pitchers on the road to the series. They can handle it. This city has never had an offense like this, nothing close. And Dallas? He knows he can still win if he gives up a few runs. These guys make each other better.

253

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: ALDS Game 1 -- Astros vs. Red Sox

« on: October 05, 2017, 03:34:06 pm »

Sale is doing great. Only gave up two hits in the first inning.

254

Talk Zone / Re: ALDS Series Previews - Astros/Red Sox

« on: October 05, 2017, 10:52:28 am »

Series and Game 1 preview - It has begun.

Thank you so much. This is one of the reasons I love the OWA--intelligent analysis focused on the only team I care about that cannot be found in the what passes for professional local and national media. Focused on the Home team without home team blinders either. Great job Waldo.

255

Talk Zone / Re: Division Winner

« on: September 28, 2017, 12:47:45 pm »

Couple of questions:
1) I like frito pie. Ate it Tuesday. Does it please the BBG's if I eat it as an act of devotion to the Astros, and I enjoy it? My view is yes.

2) Has anyone comprised a pantheon of the BBG's. Has anyone here ventured a theogeny of the BBG's or is speculation about them unwise?

256

Talk Zone / NYT Story on changing role of Relief Pitchers

« on: September 28, 2017, 12:39:48 pm »

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/28/magazine/here-comes-the-closer-in-the-seventh-inning.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&clickSource=story-heading&module=mini-moth&region=top-stories-below&WT.nav=top-stories-below

"Here Comes the Closer" NYT story about using "Closers" in non-save situations. Also includes conversation with some of the Dodgers Analytics team. News you can use.

257

Talk Zone / Re: Division Winner

« on: September 28, 2017, 10:31:24 am »

The ol' Funk and Wagner is still around.  Not sure how up to date it is though.

Neither Frito pie or Scott Baio feature, but the word "arterioventricular" does.

Thanks Limey! yes, it looks a little dusty and could use a few terms for this millennium. Glad to see its part of the site.

258

The Championship Season Game Zone 2017 / Re: Astros at Rangers - 9/27/17

« on: September 28, 2017, 10:24:59 am »

Nice Summary

https://twitter.com/Epic_Tweets31/status/913158923481501696

Thanks for that. I have three brothers who are all serious Rangers fans. They are very frustrated with the Astros this season--used to count on Houston to be their back up date when they couldn't score a win elsewhere. So very nice to disappoint them. When the Astros and the Rangers finally both have a good team we are going to have an epic rivalry. Looking forward to it.

259

Talk Zone / Re: Division Winner

« on: September 28, 2017, 10:18:52 am »

wise words from the master.  there is a lot of stuff the rookies around here have to be educated on

If this is one of those mornings where memory is functioning I recall that a glossary was once a feature of this site (or an earlier version) where one could read about the powers of Scott Baio (r.i.p. Joanie) or the interesting and appreciated actions of Agent Jones. Perhaps a few of you Popes could hold a conclave and create a way for those new to this very long conversation to appreciate the various venerable term of art which make the frito pie served around here so flavorful?

260

Talk Zone / Re: Division Winner

« on: September 25, 2017, 05:05:38 pm »

Not to be a buzzkill, but I have mixed feelings about these types of sentiments.  On one hand, I understand the frustration with the AL move and the re-building, but on the other it makes me angry that people have "re-discovered" or "re-connected with" the Astros this season, after losing interest during the dark times.  That's the definition of bandwaggoning and almost feel like you should have to start over again as fans (you've been a fan since 2017, not 1994 kind of thing).  But I guess bandwaggoning is just human nature, and I should be glad people are talking Astros baseball again. 

Now you can all pile on what an asshole I am.

No, thanks for the clarity. NL Astros fan: 1994-2012 R.I.P.
AL Astros Fan 2017--?

Sure, during the abysmal years I went to some games. Turned on the Radio, turned it off. but you're right. I had a four year fan strike that shall go on my permanent record and I'll just have to live with being on double secret fan probation  during this new era of Astros dominance.

 also want to say thanks to all of you who keep this place the best place to go to find out what's happening with the Astros. Have followed this site since the freight train days and this remains a great place to find out what's going on with the team. The conversation here is lively and informed and sometimes brilliant. Which the chronicle never is. Respect and gratitude all around.

261

Talk Zone / Re: Division Winner

« on: September 25, 2017, 04:38:58 pm »

Somehow I knew there would be a follow up to establish the rightness of your position. The guy took a chance posting his emotions and feelings here and got hammered for his candor. I hope he will continue to post here and to contribute as the rest of us do, but if he never posts again, I will not be surprised.

No offense taken. consider the response kind and welcoming--especially when compared to the kind of receptions people sometimes get around here.
 

262

Talk Zone / Division Winner

« on: September 22, 2017, 03:57:12 pm »

Been having a lot of emotions around the Astros this season and now experiencing some new ones. The Astros and baseball are synonymous with me--fan since 1994. Right now I feel like the team is back. I can connect with them again. I had felt distant for a while.  It broke my fan's heart when they moved to the AL--I had nightmares of the team being moved to some cold foggy place in the pacific northwest--stadium and all--I would try to drive to the juice box in my dream and it was gone. I'd go to the dome and it was gone. I'd go to a game and the baseball fans were there for the team batting at the top of the inning.

And a close friend died last year. He had stopped following the Astros after the AL swtich. He had been a Cardinals fan before the Astros existed, so he went back to being a Cardinals fan. We had talked Astros Baseball for over two decades, he told me about the Colt 45's, the mosquitoes in the original park, Micky Mantle's home run. We'd  gone to games at the Dome, downtown, took our kids watched them on t.v., radio...but he just turned his back on them after the went to the AL.  I understood.  If I had ever been a fan of another team I'd have done the same thing. 

But this season has been been different. There are echos of events in many seasons that have come before (5 men at an All start game; Carlos Beltran, an epic trade at the last possible moment with a second to spare to name a few). The thing that feels really new is the Astros have never been this good. Some of you want them to beat the Indians for best record in the AL. I don't care. At all. I want the Astros to win their Division, they have and I am delighted. The Astros have to play two good teams before they get to the World Series. I am looking forward to watching some great baseball. And I think the 2017 Astros  can hold up their end of making each series amazing, how ever many there may be.
 
I can't give a fuck about how the Indians play unless and until the Astros face them. The Astros have more wins on the road than at Home so how much can I care about home field advantage? Sure, I do want to see the Astros knock the Angels out of the Wild card and sweep the Rangers in their home at Arlington and watch them open UP a whole lot of ORANGEWHOOPASS in bean town and drive the Red Sox fans crazy. Seriously, I want crazed heartbroken red sox fans to troll this board and meet JimR. But there ain't no shirt for best regular season record. It's fine with me if some poor sad fucker in cleveland  gets to print that one up custom along with his matching  "record win streak 2017" sweater to keep him warm among that lake effect snow. 

And I think that is some of it. Other than the Rangers (arlington annexing Texas), Yankees (yankee fans) and White Sox (2005) I couldn't connect to the teams in the AL. It took  time  to adjust to the context of the new league. Now it feels like the Astros are back in Houston. It feels like the Hurricane and the Verlander trade and sweeping the fucking Mets and winning the division, even the AL WEST, brought them--no me--back home.

And this complete lack of a pennant race in late September is weird. Don't intend to get used to it, but it sure is nice to know what it feels like. 



 




 

263

Talk Zone / Re: Good Places to watch away games in Houston

« on: September 21, 2017, 09:39:09 am »

Thanks for the recommendations.

264

Talk Zone / Good Places to watch away games in Houston

« on: September 14, 2017, 03:02:35 pm »

For the Houston-based denizens of the grand old OWA, where are places you recommend going to watch away games? I live near Oakforest and work near the Galleria, so places inside the loop or just north of it are best? Any suggestions?

265

Beer and Queso / Re: Whataburger

« on: April 08, 2010, 07:16:23 am »

I have had about enough of you, jerk. Leave me out of your fantasies. Fuck off.

you are not, nor have ever been a character in my fantasies JimR--I lean more towards Scarett Johansson (sorry Limey, but its you she's singing Fannin street for, not me), And in the tradition of Foghorn's great sacrifice--I would happily titty-fuck Ms. Johanseen if it would help the Astros in any way, or barring that, won't hurt them too much.
But I will happily leave you out of my posts. you've had an impressive career ever since you clerked for judge roy bean, western district. I Just hope you'll go a little less out of your way to tell me to fuck myself. no wait, I forgot the sign on the way in---I'll check that hope shit in at the door.

266

Beer and Queso / Re: Whataburger

« on: April 07, 2010, 01:47:51 pm »

Nope, it was there, briefly. Very dingy.

which is how I'd descibe the phone conversation I had with raup the elder.

fuck, it's not like i'm the guy who keeps hiding his keys or stealing his pants.

happy chuck?

267

Beer and Queso / Re: For all the Buckaroo Banzai lovers out there

« on: April 07, 2010, 01:33:02 pm »

Why was Jeff Goldblum in a cowboy suit, again?  My memory fades.

Maybe it was because the S&M gimp suit that Mr. Goldblum first wore didn't fit in with the color scheme chosen for the other actors.

I don't think Buckaroo Banzai is best approached with "why." like the platypus, just be glad it exists at all.

268

Beer and Queso / Re: Whataburger

« on: April 07, 2010, 01:22:46 pm »

I remember occasionally going to that Whataburger.  It was opened much later than the rest of the drag, so it basically doubled as a homeless shelter. 

I think I went there twice in the six years I lived in austin. their prices were a little high for me at the time. I rarely still had that kind of cash that far down guadalupe after leaving the plasma donation center. man, it usually evaporated by the time I got to the Centennial near Trudy's.
However, in that specific Whataburger, the one I apparently did not hallucinate--or at least not alone (thanks subnuclear), I did once have the pleasure of running into a young woman who lived at a vegetarian co-op sneaking a burger in the upstairs dining area/shelter. Her guilt/embarrasment/shame was palpable. She started to stammer about how she hadn't eaten meat for three years. I interrupted, "don't have to explain yourself to me, it's not your fault that God made them so tasty." Lunch and astros on the radio. good times.

269

Beer and Queso / Re: Whataburger

« on: April 07, 2010, 09:19:09 am »

Are you sure it was on Guadalupe? A Whataburger?

This was late 80's, early 90's. slacker-era west campus. There was a wataburger on Guadalupe--north of MLK south of 24th. I think it was across the street from the Harry Ransom center. Anyway it was dingy, narrow, and had a second floor--very unwhataburgery. Last time I walked down Guadalupe it and most of the other places I remembered were gone--Quacks, LazyMe, Texas Tavern. Fucking starbucks.

270

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 06, 2010, 03:43:32 pm »

Actually, your recollection for facts is a bit off, lemme help you out:

1. No one "called you".
2. Spack doesn't call nor speak to anyone, including me... he does what he wants to do and if he feels like explaining it, he will and if he doesn't, he won't.
3. Spack doesn't care about you or me or anyone else, he'd just a soon shut this place down and turn it into a basket weaving forum.
4. I pm'ed you that you were trying too hard to make an impression on the TZ and you "reminded" everyone of those blowhard teenage know-it-all snobs who left with their tails between their legs soon thereafter.
5. I advised you to stop trying so hard to be funnier, smarter, better looking (okay, the last part isn't too hard to do, skip that) than anybody else, instead, read more, post less and if you're going to post, contribute, not decide to take on the entire freaking board unless you're sure you want the fight.
6. You told me "thanks but I'll do things my way" in so many words and that was the end of the "help" I was trying to provide you as an Admin.  I can only scream "CLIFF" so loud before you drive yourself right over it.
7. You were never banned.

So now that we have that all straightened out, welcome back and watch out for Spack... just like all the rest of us do. Some never learn though, so there is that.

Noe,
Thanks for clearing things up. I don’t remember the pm but I do remember speaking on the phone with a Mr. Jim Raup, attorney at law. Not disputing your version of the facts—I’m sure you possess the superior activity log—mine is occasionally infected with the tequila and bourbon viruses. And I agree that I was never banned. I was actually living in Ohio, which is far crueler than being banned from an internet chat board, even one as fine as SNS. And thanks for the welcome back, though I’ve gotten friendlier ones in county.

271

Beer and Queso / Re: heading to fla

« on: April 06, 2010, 02:58:04 pm »

any one have any suggestons for the penscaola , navarre area?

I vacationed in Destin which is just a little east of Navarre a few years back. The beaches are great but take the warning flags seriously. A man drowned while we were there, and apparantly it happens often. I suggest staying out of the water when the lifeguards aren't around and putting little kids in vests--the riptides are no joke. Hopefully Navarre is safer, I'd just ask the locals about riptides and such.

If you're driving you might consider stopping at the http://www.ussalabama.com
its right off I-10 in Mobile. My newly nine-year-old went there with his grandparents this weekend and it was his favorite part of the trip.

272

Beer and Queso / Re: Whataburger

« on: April 06, 2010, 12:30:29 pm »

Whataburger has nothing on the Taco C at Riverside and 35.  In a week's span I saw two fights and one guy puke on the table.  There was a security guard present during all of these instances.  He would usually walk over after the fight had broken itself up and ask everyone to "calm it down just a bit."

once the whataburger on guadalupe in west campus had a gunman complete with eager SWAT team waiting outside. something about the tower seems to inspire that kind of behavior. or maybe it was the general lack of nutrition of any kind in the food. see defense, twinkie.

273

Beer and Queso / Re: For all the Buckaroo Banzai lovers out there

« on: April 06, 2010, 12:25:52 pm »

It was heavily advertised in comic books in my youth, so there are lots of nerds my age that like it.  My grad school roommate claimed it inspired him to study physics (that and  Ghostbusters). 

It reminds of the crappy DC comic books from the seventies that were so serious, but completely absurd.

always loved it but I am disconceted to hear you compare it to a comic book. A brave documentary of its caliber deserves better.

274

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 06, 2010, 11:31:02 am »

heard all about you yesterday. i never called you by the way. you can fuck off now and go away or get Spacked. your choice.

Dear Mr. Spack,
You did call me a number of years back. Again, this is the second handle I have had at SNS/ orangewhoopass /astrosconnection. The first was “headhunter”-- you called me back in 2005 (or thereabouts) when I banished to Cleveland, Ohio.  You said that some high school kids had been posting flames on the board and you wanted to make sure that I wasn’t some teenage jackass looking for trouble. We spoke about Texas, the Astros and some other such stuff until you felt satisfied that I was a right-thinking Astros fan.

As I stated before, I changed my handle because I forgot my password and didn’t want people to think I was involved with the new headhunter segment.

Regardless, I’m a little surprised by the intensity of your reaction to my posts. It seems stronger than the hazing that you generally pile on clarks.

I appreciate and respect the various iterations of SNS and enjoy the columns, game previews and recaps. Apparently my attempts at humor have gone beyond what you think is appropriate. Consider me chastened and contrite. But I hope you understand my confusion on a board where “go fuck yourself” is a more common greeting than “good morning.” Not that there’s anything wrong with that. So go fuck yourself or good morning or whatever you think best.

But as to my spleen…obviously it’s something I can live without.

275

Talk Zone / Re: Alright, everybody - gather 'round

« on: April 06, 2010, 10:31:39 am »

How many lines have you done this morning?

zero. but I must admit that the misses did brew the PG tips rather strong this morning.

276

Talk Zone / Re: Alright, everybody - gather 'round

« on: April 06, 2010, 09:28:57 am »

Eh?

I'm sorry Limey, it's something we yanks did--a bit of necessary propaganda in the old W.W. Two. Awkwardly in the last century the Stars and Stripes kicked germany's ass twice--much like Andrew Jackson slaughtered the British at New Orleans. The uncomfortable part of the conflicts was at the time the largest european ethnic group in the U.S. were Germans. Fortunatey, Germans are happy to fight anyone, even (maybe especially) other Germans because though they been lightly christianized for somehting close to a thousand years, deep down in der blut is the idea that maybe the best way to heaven is to die in battle--prefereably after helping whole communities of the other side go to Hel first. Anyway, instead of hating germans, the enemy was Hitler and the Nazis (or the Kaiser in JimR's time). This made it easier for the millions of German-Americans who fought for the U.S. from feeling a twang of uncomfortable angst. The upshot is that I can question Selig for being comfortable with the inherent conflict of interest involved in controlling both a team and being the commissioner. I can despise Selig for the roiding of the game--something it is impossible to imagine Bart Giamatti tolerating for 10 seconds let alone ten years. And I can freaking hate him for moving an Astros "home" game  to Milwaukee which I had to listen to on an battery powered radio while mr. fucking cubsfan gets to watch in person after a short drive. I can do all that without hating the Brewers. Really, can you hate someone who honors those who make beer? Really?
Well, Cheerio old chap, hope I answered your "eh?" If not there's plenty of more horseshit back in the barn. And i am sure that togther we can finally find that pony.  

277

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 05, 2010, 03:42:12 pm »

Congrats on jumping the gun and being the first annoying fucko of the season even before the Stros have played a game. Now shut the fuck up and go away.

Thanks for the congrats. And that's Mr. Fucko to you, you walking pile of congealed JimRissom (nttawwt).

278

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 05, 2010, 03:16:54 pm »

*channels Kent Dorfman*

Oh boy, is this great!

*returns to semi-normal status of Katy, handing beer to random freshmen*

 I'm really more of a Bluto fan. and you channel a zit. get it?

279

Talk Zone / Re: Alright, everybody - gather 'round

« on: April 05, 2010, 02:17:35 pm »

You're only wrong on one thing: fuck the Brew Crew too. See Selig, Bud.

that's like hating every german because of hitler. No, my loyalties are clear--Astros uber alles. but I'm still celebrating oktoberfest.

280

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 05, 2010, 02:11:08 pm »

Go away. Whatever you are. This place is for knowledgeable baseball folks who are Astros fans. You fail on both counts. Try AD.

AD?...forget grouchy...you are one cruel, sadistic fucker, Mr. Happy. I wouldn't wish that on a cubs fan.

no. take it back. I wish it on all cubs fans.

281

Talk Zone / Re: Alright, everybody - gather 'round

« on: April 05, 2010, 02:06:14 pm »

I'm not much for giving inspirational addresses.

I'd just like to point out that every media outlet in the country has picked us to finish next to last.  The local press seems to think we would save everyone a lot of time and trouble if we just went out and shot ourselves.

Me, I'm for wasting sportswriters' time - so I'd like to hang around and see if we can give 'em all a nice big shitburger to eat.

New vastly improved coach,younger players coming up from an improving farm system, more wit and wisdom from Lance Berkman in a contract year--it's going to a fun season. Being a pirates fan sucks. Being a cubs fan is shameful. Cardinal fan--I feel sorry for them, like being born french. Brewers, I largely wish them well--I just can't find anything wrong with beer and sausage races. And cinci--isn't being in Ohio and eating that chili punishment enough? Anyway, fuck the national sportswriters who reflexively dump on the astros no matter how good or bad the team looks on paper. I just thank the BBGs that Astros Baseball is back.
And worst case scenario, if the astros are mathematically eliminated by April 6th like these jackasses predict, they'll still have the opportunity to send all the cubs fans who seem to fester and breed in the downtown sewer back underground feeling sad in the last home series. 

282

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 05, 2010, 01:37:11 pm »

fucking trolls. why don't we have a filter?

JimR, you are the filter. You are one mean-old Billy Goat Gruff and you're welcome to cross the bridge toll-free on your way to the pasture.

283

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 05, 2010, 01:16:32 pm »

This Clarkie has a familiar ring to his words. Probably banned on multiple priors.

I've posted before as 'headhunter' but forgot my log in and created a new account. Also thought it was time to change accounts becasue of the headhunter segement on the site. never banned, but I did get a call from JimR once.

284

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 05, 2010, 01:06:55 pm »

Sweet and sassy, like a lolly-pop on a turd.

interesting flavor choice--often served in a single cup for two to share, Brazilian style. Don't bother saving any for me.

285

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 05, 2010, 12:59:33 pm »

Okay, Clarkie, what word would you have used? And did you somehow offend all of grandmotherdom by insinuating that Fredia is the way she is because she's a grandmother. I have a sneaking feeling that Fredia was the way she is long before the first grandchild popped out. And, by the way, fuck off.

The word for right now is fuck. Definitely fuck-off yourself Mr. Happy. Absolutely no offense at all was meant towards Fredia--by my lights "the way she is," is just fyne.
 
Now you, you seem a little grouchy.

286

Talk Zone / Re: maybe the forum

« on: April 02, 2010, 09:52:48 pm »

Mr. Happy, vapid is harsh. go pick on a grandma your own size.

Fredia,
 I share your frustration with the ever increasing DL. The 2010 Astros seem as injury-prone as Brett Myer's wife.

As to saving time, i really can't get on board with that. My decision to post on this board, yes, my love of baseball of itself--especially my love of the Astros--reflects a firm commitment to occasionally waste my time like a Mexican Narcotraficante wastes oxygen by breathing. Yes, I am here to waste my time with a vengeance. and yours too, of course.