Messages

1

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

« on: November 18, 2019, 11:29:09 am »

What’s the medical news?

Medically confirmed cheetosis. 

2

Talk Zone / Re: More controversy

« on: November 14, 2019, 08:21:56 am »

Beltran speaks. Good. Waiting for others. Cora? You’re up.

According to reports that I read this morning, Cora declined to comment.
https://sports.yahoo.com/report-red-sox-manager-alex-cora-mets-carlos-beltran-implicated-in-astros-signstealing-scheme-055319318.html

3

Talk Zone / Re: More controversy

« on: November 12, 2019, 04:26:01 pm »

There are high speed cameras all around every ballpark. The recent book on Bauer and player development made that clear. I will wait on the investigation of every team.

Exactly! The below article states that this shouldn't be an Astros only investigation...

But this is likely not just an Astros story. Major League Baseball has a pretty big cheating scandal on its hands. Now let’s see if Major League Baseball treats it as such rather than limit its inquiry to just the Houston Astros.

https://www.yahoo.com/sports/astros-stole-signs-electronically-2017-191628433.html

4

Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5

« on: November 01, 2019, 07:58:36 am »

http://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/astros/article/Astros-Gerrit-Cole-I-don-t-have-a-crystal-ball-14701325.php

FWIW.

Sent from my GM1915 using Tapatalk

That is exactly what my hope was from my 1st reply to hearing his interview...that he was mostly upset with the loss.

5

Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5

« on: October 31, 2019, 03:06:05 pm »

My take is that Cole didn't want to talk to the media (I don't blame him, given the situation and the, uh, contentious relationship between the Astros and the media recently) and reached for a readily-available excuse that would give him an easy out:  "I'm not employed by the team anymore."  And when Gene Dias gave him the choice, he nutted up "as an affiliate of myself" and talked to the press pool because it is so obviously a bad look to do otherwise. 

Much of that bad look was to intentionally walk around the team locker room with not a Astros team hat that he was just minutes from being a part of to quickly going with the team Boris lid.

6

Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5

« on: October 31, 2019, 09:21:07 am »

Quotes from a Footer article...

https://www.mlb.com/news/gerrit-cole-doesn-t-pitch-in-game-7-of-world-series

Did Cole expect to get into the game?

"If we were winning, yes," Cole said. "We just went over the game plan. [Hinch] laid out the most advantageous times to use me. We didn't get the [opportunity]."

Hinch backed up Cole's account, confirming he wasn't going to pitch his co-ace unless Houston had the lead.

"He was going to help us win," Hinch said. "He was available, and I felt it was a game that he was going to come in had we tied it or taken the lead. He was going to close the game in the ninth after I brought Osuna in had we kept the lead."

Hinch
"I'm not sure I've had the time to really think about it other than Gerrit is one of my favorite players I've ever been around," Hinch said, adding that the two had "an incredible conversation" about what the righty was willing to do to win the World Series.

"And that means a lot to me, and it means a lot to this team," Hinch said. "And he's meant a lot to this franchise."

7

Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5

« on: October 31, 2019, 08:54:28 am »

Hinch turned into Dave Roberts this week.

Greinke wasn't going to go much longer if Hinch left him in.  It's not like it was a 3rd or 4th inning early hook.

It's also not like Harris threw a crap pitch to Kendrick. He dotted the low outside corner that he hit for a 2 run homer.

If my mind is allowed to second guess anything is that Soto shouldn't have been on base as the 3rd strike call was missed and the ump allowed him a free base. Without that walk I think Greinke stays in the game...but then reality wipes that what if away.

8

Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5

« on: October 31, 2019, 08:43:07 am »

Yep, I agree, and I think that attitude so soon after the loss sucked.

Yep, IMO his attitude no matter his reasoning sucked.

9

Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5

« on: October 31, 2019, 08:36:26 am »

I'm hoping it was just disappointment from losing at the highest level for what seems out of character behavior for Cole.  Just bizarre. He just had an incredible season with one of the best Houston teams ever. Loses last game and now is no longer a teammate? While he's still in the same TEAM locker room.   

10

Talk Zone / Joe Buck Bingo

« on: October 30, 2019, 01:56:21 pm »

Joe Buck Bingo. The game within the game.

https://www.click2houston.com/sports/mlb/astros/basically-cheers-for-the-nats-this-is-the-joe-buck-bingo-square-that-has-us-laughing

11

Talk Zone / Re: Game 7

« on: October 30, 2019, 09:08:54 am »

Tonight's game is a kinda a big deal. If they need me I'm ready to play. Waiting for my phone to ring.

12

Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy

« on: October 22, 2019, 11:00:28 am »

I'm really hoping that some additional info is forthcoming. From the media or Astros org. Some more details or context (video w sound). Just something for context.

The response, starting with declining to comment to the actual statement that was released seems so out of character for the Astros org.

13

Talk Zone / Re: Weather report for Game 4

« on: October 17, 2019, 12:09:27 pm »

Is the wind in NYC 30+ mph?

I use this for planning duck hunting trips and it's been close enough accurate in my use. Click on the New York text and it will show forecasts for that location. For New York the website shows 23mph winds with gusts of 47mph, today at 6pm.

https://www.windy.com/40.730/-73.990?40.687,-74.084,9

14

Talk Zone / Re: NLCS

« on: October 17, 2019, 11:00:22 am »

Or the airplane out of Jefferson.

I got lost.  Are we still following the Dire Straits to the Creedence Clearwater Revival?

15

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Rotation

« on: October 11, 2019, 02:35:07 pm »

What is the expected Yankees rotation? A cursory google search didn't reveal anything to me.

Top 3 will probably be the same as the Division Series which had, Paxton, Tanaka and Severino. I got nothing but wild guesses after that. Maybe someone else has a better handle on it.

16

Talk Zone / Re: Frito pie

« on: October 11, 2019, 01:53:52 pm »

Green olives are preferable.

Since were doing substitute diner stuff I'll replace the green olives with bell pepper. Obviously green bell peppers though.

17

Talk Zone / Re: Frito pie

« on: October 11, 2019, 01:33:18 pm »

NO!

You don't like olives on pizza U FOO.

I'll wear my shame...I asked for it so there's no one to blame but myself.

18

Talk Zone / Re: Frito pie

« on: October 11, 2019, 12:22:40 pm »

On second thought, maybe my frito pie that some call pizza didn't contribute to the win. My conscience won't let me take credit guys, sorry my bad.

19

Talk Zone / Re: Frito pie

« on: October 11, 2019, 12:17:52 pm »

This is like saying "my version of frito pie is to take some potatoes, boil them, then mash them up with some cream, butter, salt and pepper".  Best frito pie.  Ever.

My frito pie was pizza. Supreme pizza. I picked off the olives. Did I do it right?

20

Talk Zone / Re: I am so excited

« on: October 11, 2019, 08:35:28 am »

I came home late from a meeting Tuesday and Kris was screaming at the TV. I thought poor girl, she hasn't had 20 years of OWA to prepare her for national network coverage.

After the replay review upheld that Alvarez didn't skip touching 2nd tagging back to 1st, my son asked why Pierzynski was digging in that he saw him miss the bag. Son said, "He 's watching from the press box. Not exactly a good location to see foot placement unless Alvarez cut across the field."

I had to fill my son in on Peirzynski's unique personality that I've seen watching him play in the past. National Network Coverage...Only the best !

21

Talk Zone / Re: NLDS

« on: October 11, 2019, 08:26:55 am »

I'll take door #1.  A good manager adjusts for situations, including the overall importance of an individual game, which does vary between regular season and post-season, but which also has variations within either.  Roberts seems consistently to be wrong-footed by the other manager's moves.  The talent on the recent Dodgers teams carries him, but he does not seem to recognize what is happening to him on the chessboard.

This! This talented Dojers teams can carry his faulty decisions against lesser talented teams in the regular season. In the regular season it doesn't get highlighted on a regular basis for this reason. Faced with matching talent in the postseason and it comes to light.

22

Talk Zone / Re: Tipping pitches

« on: October 11, 2019, 07:47:40 am »

As Sphinx pointed out his glove location was different. Stros hitters still had to put a good swing on it and were hitting opposite field when they did. Well executed! Also, the pitches being hit in that 1st inning caught a lot of the plate. Glasnow tipped his pitches but I'm thinking he didn't mean to catch that much plate. If he did that's all on him tipping pitches or not. 

23

Talk Zone / Re: ALDS

« on: October 05, 2019, 06:48:11 pm »

Tucker showed some pretty good defense after his call up. Looks like he covers a lot of ground and has a better than average arm.

I'm hoping he shows good defense tonight!

Both my kids are in fall sports so I haven't been able to watch many games since his callup. I was able to take the fam to see the Sept 6 game against the Mariners. Tucker pulled in a leaping catching over his shoulder and a sliding catch. The fam was impressed. I wasn't.

Those barely catches were more dramatic than necessary. Both catches he took a loopy route to the ball. Glad he pulled them off for the out but it wasn't pretty outfield defense.

24

Talk Zone / Re: Choose Wisely

« on: October 03, 2019, 12:48:36 pm »

Never said you didn't care about winning.  Just struggling to understand why it is so important to worry about Cole's whereabouts for next season now, rather than after the season is over.

I'm not overly worried and it may not be all that important now. I guess the way I look at it, Cole is a big part of this team and their success. Although this season isn't over, I'm hoping he can be in an Astros uniform beyond this season.

25

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

« on: September 30, 2019, 09:53:03 am »

In his furious Sunday-long tweet storm, Trump called for Schiff to be tried for treason and warned against civil war if impeachment continues. In a normal world, that would be the last thing a politician would say before being forced to resign. In Trump World, it barely gets an above the fold headline.

Master Windu will need to bring better backup this time!

26

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 04:07:32 pm »

Here are some proposed solutions to doctor shortages along with an honest look at the political challenges of making those solutions happen.

There's a lot that goes into the cost problem: shitty insurers, MD protectionism, hospital monopolization, prescription patent abuse, etc., etc. I do get frustrated with the politicians who oversimplify things (e.g. focusing entirely on the insurance companies) because it makes M4A seem like a half-baked idea. But there is a lot of good work being done behind the scenes, and I think the best thing we can do as voters is commit to the goal of M4A but demand more details about how our representatives are going to do it right.

Thanks for the link! Some of what the article proposed is a good start.

27

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 03:48:00 pm »

We all have questions.  That doesn't mean we should blindly accept where we are and dismiss alternatives.

On this we agree
 

28

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 03:43:18 pm »

Has the right answered those questions??

No, they haven't.  But the ineptitude of the right doesn't make the platforms of the left legitimate or give a pass to not answer how the programs they put forth are going to work.

29

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 03:23:41 pm »

So you see it coming.  My argument is that you're not opposed to the socialism, you're afraid of the unknowns of implementing it, so you default to the status quo.  Bringing this back to my original point...this is what I see in the majority of the "independents" and "fence sitters", and why the Republicans' fear mongering works on them.   

Fear leads to the dark side. I don't have fear but legitimate questions. The left has not sufficiently answered those questions.

In this instance you picked medicare for all which happens to be one of the least on my list that I object to. That why I tried to give you 2 for 1 to start with.

30

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 03:05:55 pm »

Forget bout paying for it or running it for the moment... you support the concept of universal healthcare...is that fair to say?

I do this game with my kids when I'm leading them to a argument ending point I'm about to lay on them.

For the moment I'll forget the stickies. Yes, I can support the concept of universal care.

31

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 02:57:05 pm »

I think the double.negatives confused you.

Thanks for the assist

32

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 02:54:51 pm »

Do you support trying to make healthcare available to everyone, irrespective of wealth?

Sure, that would be great. Up front cost of paying for it, cost of actual care, level of care, already existing shortage of doctors causes things to get sticky. Then, thinking about the Fed running health care makes me squeamish.  The Fed surely can't mess up another government program.

33

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 01:51:04 pm »

So...and I don't want to put words in your mouth here...you think they should just have to now suffer whatever consequences that mistake brings?

Do you feel the same about these other "socialist" agenda items?  Healthcare for instance...don't have money for insurance? it's your own fault, you'll have to just live or die with whatever health problems you have?

Thanks for asking and not assuming.

With health care...No, I do not think that if you don't have health insurance it's you own fault, you'll just have to live or die with whatever health problems you have.

34

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 01:46:04 pm »

To be fair, that study finds that only 23% of students surveyed used any student loan money for any non-educational stuff.  It doesn't attempt to itemize which categories students spent their loan money on (about 1/3 of those categories are perfectly defensible), nor does it attempt to ascertain how much money students spent in each of those categories, from their loans or otherwise.

I see. Thanks for pointing that out

Besides, this doesn't have to be binary.  It can be possible that 1) some students use loan money frivolously, and 2) tuition is too expensive.

I can completely agree with this.

35

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 01:35:19 pm »

Here's what I don't get: if you're convinced you're going to lose either way, what's wrong with a principled vote for a third party or independent candidate? There's bound to be one.

Have you read the platforms from some of the 3rd party candidates?

Guess what I'm trying to say, is that if the Democrats could run a candidate that's closer to the center, myself and many other independents would probably be in. 

36

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 01:29:40 pm »

I don't know about this, but when I got college loans for a seemingly worthless grad degree (that eventually proved quite valuable) they were federal Stafford loans and what I could spend them on was very proscribed. I couldn't buy anything that wasn't directly academic. I couldn't use them for rent, even, and we were deeply underwater trying to make ends meet on Long Island.

They are all paid off now, because we were lucky enough to have a small inheritance that enabled us to buy a house for a good price at the right time in a good market. If not for my grandparents'-in-law's foresight and munificence they'd be looming over us for the next lots and lots of years.

And also, just food for thought: people racked up a lot less student debt when college tuitions were more heavily subsidized from higher taxes. It drives me nuts, all these guys who got 100k degrees for cents on the dollar and then got out and cut their own taxes.

Glad you were able to get yours paid off!

As far as you not being able to use them for anything other than academics I have no idea.
This seems to back up that some loans aren't as regulated as what yours were.
https://studentloanhero.com/featured/what-can-i-spend-student-loans-on/

37

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 01:16:10 pm »

I'm guessing a substantial portion of student loans go to pay room and board, books, misc fees, etc...the other general costs of college.  But I don't have any stats to back that up.

I have no idea, but found this as showing a great deal of the money is being used frivolously.
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1140908.pdf

38

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 01:05:26 pm »

So what is your stance on this?  Do you think "they made their bed, now must lie in it", or do you think there should be some way to get them out of their mess, even though it was of their own making?  Secondly, if it's the latter, what is your proposal?

Hard work and living within your means won't kill them. Their mess and their responsibility to fix it. I'm not going to pull money out of the pocket of someone else to fix their stupid. They were adults when those decisions were made.   

39

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 12:50:06 pm »

We've all been told that.  Not all of us believe I=]-[0pol but a substantial majority of "independents" play the devil-I-know game. 

And so to pick a common topic...what is your objection to universal health care?

Ok, but in this case 2 is better than 1…How about I pick 2 of my greater objections.

Cancelling student debt & free college. I agree that the price to go to college is a problem.  I do not agree at all that cancelling student debt and free college is a good way to proceed.

1st is the cost. No one has a good plan on how to pay for this. Raising taxes for the top earners I do not believe will be enough to both cancel the existing debt and pay for free college.

2nd is that from some experience. I have 2 family members with a lot of student loan debt. Family member 1 owes +$100,000. Family member 2 owes +$20,000. Family member 1 went on to get his masters in a worthless degree that family member 1 has never worked at. Family member 2 got a 4 year degree. Neither family member has much motivation of paying off the debt…That’s bad enough but here’s where I get really torqued. Family member 1 borrowed and used student loans to pay for “living expenses”.  Some of that living expense debt used from student loans was for the coolest shoes out that everyone was wearing, eating out with friends…other non-tuition stuffs. That’s so foolish of family member 1…but then family member 2 says hold my beer! Family member 2 went and used some of the loaned money to go to the Cracklin Festival in Lafayette that family member 2 REALLY wanted to go to but didn’t have the cash. Way to go family member 2. Inventive!

Some stats I pulled from the web:

A Student Loan Hero survey found that 20% of students use their student loan funds for travel and 26% use them for clothes. Only 10% use student loan funds just for tuition.

What the heck is the other 44% going to?

Would I like them to be debt free? Sure.
Do I want to raise anyone’s taxes (even evil Mr. Burns) to pay for this? Nope

40

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 12:47:13 pm »

You don't remember any of the "death panels" horseshit Republicans peddled during the 2008 campaign and Obama's first term?

I do. It wasn't stated as funny as HH said it though.

I also remember being told “If you like your health-care plan, you’ll be able to keep your health-care plan, period. No one will take it away, no matter what.”. 

The Repubs don't have the market cornered on horseshit.

41

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 11:32:32 am »

This is what you're being told, correct.

Nope

My point is that the right preys on the independent voter by invoking fear, and it's successful strategy for them.  "Sure, healthcare is expensive, but if you try to make it available to everyone, you'll all be dying in the streets from dysentery and ingrown toenails.  If you don't build a wall, the Mexicans will be stampeding your daughters and raping your cattle.  If you try to educate everyone, some immigrant will take your job and you'll be reduced to eating dirt with no shoes on.  If you accept Muslims, you'll all be stoned to death for wearing a tshirt with the American flag on it while your women are sold into sexual slavery..."  Well who the hell wants any of that?
[/quote]I haven't been told any of that. Maybe I don't know any real Republicans if that's how real Republicans think.

42

Talk Zone / Re: Miley's Last Chance

« on: September 26, 2019, 11:23:08 am »

if that happens who replaces him.  this is almost shocking  from where he was earlier this year

Possibly Urquidy, but I'm hoping that Miley pitches well for this last regular season start.

43

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 10:19:44 am »

Most reasonable people are for fixing these problems.  The right refuses to acknowledge there are problems, or if they do, they blame it on people of a different skin color, immigrants or Jews/Muslims, or what have you.  They want to burn down the huts of the troublemaking poor.

Fixing and what has been put forth are 2 different animals IMO. 

You keep mentioning the right so I'm thinking you missed my point of the need for independent voters to secure the electoral vote.

The left keeps shifting further left while the right shifts further right. That's has the potential to leave a larger majority in the middle.

44

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 09:52:29 am »

"Socialism" is just a dog whistle of the right to justify racism and maintain their class privilege.  The vast majority of American already embrace these socialist" planks, including things like Social Security, Medicare, and socialized health insurance.  The right uses the term to scare people by saying "vote for X, and you'll end up in Venezuela".  Unfortunately, the ignorant masses of electorate buy into it.  Fear is a powerful motivator.

You really think that Independent voters are for canceling student debt, free college, Medicare for all, UBI, reparations...etc?

45

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 08:06:17 am »

Trump did not win in 2016 because of his base.  He won because a huge portion of the "on the fencers" voted against Hillary Clinton.  They will do the same if Trump is impeached.

I'm not a fence sitter when it comes to Trump, but Socialism is a sticking point for me and many other independent voters out there. Democrats, at least in the debates have shifted towards embracing many socialist platforms that independent voters won't support. Not saying I can support Trumps either though...arg...

46

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

« on: September 26, 2019, 07:49:51 am »

He deserves to be impeached.

This is too true...

47

Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today

« on: September 21, 2019, 09:21:09 am »

Speaking of fish most folks consider trash - my Cajun grandmother used to cook the most delicious gar roast. She would get it only occasionally and season and stuff it with garlic and peppers, sear it on all sides and cook it like a pot roast.

Just like this:  https://www.realcajunrecipes.com/recipe/garfish-roast/

Fresh gar isn't bad. It doesn't hold up well with freezing though.

48

Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today

« on: September 21, 2019, 09:18:22 am »

I'm sure we are. It's this, more or less:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mullet_(fish)

When I was a kid you could catch all of these you wanted off of any pier in Texas. No one ate them, they were used solely for bait. The ones here have a yellowish hue to them. I like trying all sorts of unusual fish and I usually find that I can do something good with fish most people don't value.

I'm a coonass so I'll try to eat most anything. I've tried mullet. It's mushy with a strong pungent smell and flavor. I don't like it at all.

Although I've never tried the mullet from the east coast. I'm wondering if it's a variation with a better table fare.

49

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

« on: September 19, 2019, 01:26:43 pm »

NEWS FLASH: POLITICAL CANDIDATE MAKES IMPOSSIBLE CAMPAIGN PROMISE

Why not just call out all lunacy for what it is? No matter if it's your party of choice or in an upcoming election your candidate of choice. What she said was stupidly impossible. I'm not going to waste my time defending someone with the dumb.

50

Talk Zone / Re: Imelda

« on: September 19, 2019, 11:11:17 am »

Heard from my cousin in Beaumont (not sure which part) this morning.  Their house is flooded, worse than they got with Harvey.

Yeah, BMT seems to be worse than Harvey. My father n law in BMT is inches from flooding, which is higher than Harvey. My companies office in downtown BMT I was told is flooded. It didn't flood in Harvey. No one around here was expecting this. Rain, yes, but not this much.

51

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

« on: September 19, 2019, 11:03:16 am »

That all is certainly a bit questionable at best.

Much like everything about this story, Kavanaugh (and all the shit that has come out about him) is greasy enough that details just seems to slip and slide away enough to cast doubt.

After he denied being much of a drinker/partier I view everything he says with suspicion. His own best friend wrote a book about their college partying. His greasiness gives me heartburn

52

Talk Zone / Re: Imelda

« on: September 19, 2019, 10:37:31 am »

Damn, I hope everyone in the GT area is safe.  I hadn’t realized til now just how much rain they’ve got.

Thanks jbm.

I live in Mauriceville. North of Orange. I have no idea how much rain we've had but the flooding is nearly as bad as Harvey. My house is dry but lots of friends and family in the area are flooded...again. My kids school flooded...again.

Right now the rain is slowing and the water receding. Just need a little more time before any more heavy bands hit.

53

Talk Zone / Re: The Mets

« on: September 18, 2019, 04:14:59 pm »

I'm still not over 1986, only because it was such a crotch-punch. 1980 either. I don't hate the Mets and Phillies anymore. They seem like faded antagonists of a different era. I'm sure I'd feel different if the Astros were still in the NL but for now, that hatred is reserved for more immediate foes.

Yeah, 86 stung for a long time. I think the WS in 2017 healed some of that. As well as not playing them often.

Looking back I still dislike some of those players...Gooden, Strawberry...

The Cubs were for a while a team I REALLY rooted against. That had a lot to do with Zambrano, Dusty Baker.

Now my disdain is focused on the Stangers, but mostly because of Odor. Can't stand the guy.

54

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

« on: September 18, 2019, 01:26:25 pm »

Trump's tried and true plan is to call everything a lie then quietly let the facts fall in to place that it did happen and never acknowledge it again.

This follows that pattern, just with a wrinkle in the story.

Trump is no doubt guilty of just what you've said.

I don't see how leaving that out has anything to do with it happening, but okay

.
In the below article the authors of the book that was used for the NYT article gave some statements that the Times editors left out some details that they believed to be in their words “significant”.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/nyt-kavanaugh-book-skullduggery-132959100.html

From the linked article…

At the same time, Kelly and Pogrebin acknowledged there were “errors in the process” of preparing an opinion article in the Sunday paper about their book that resulted in Times editors removing “significant” information favorable to Kavanaugh’s defense from an early draft.

The article stated that, in the course of researching their book, the authors had uncovered a “previously unreported” allegation that Kavanaugh, while a freshman at Yale University, was at a drunken dorm party where “friends pushed his penis” into the hand of a female student.

The allegation in the report triggered demands — led by a half-dozen Democratic presidential candidates, including Kamala Harris, Elizabeth Warren and Pete Buttigieg — for Kavanaugh to be impeached.

But the Times article left out a key detail that is included in the book: that the woman at the party in the new allegation never spoke to the authors and, according to several of her friends, didn’t recall the event ever happening.

Much of the article about their book in Sunday’s paper involved seven witnesses who, the authors claim, corroborated aspects of a separate account by another former Yale classmate, Deborah Ramirez, that Kavanaugh exposed himself to her at another dorm party. Such corroboration would be significant given that, according to initial accounts last year, Ramirez had been initially uncertain about Kavanaugh’s role in the alleged incident

But the authors acknowledge that none of those corroborating witnesses actually were present at the dorm party. Several of them — including Ramirez’s mother — had been told about the incident but with no reference to Kavanaugh being the offender, and two others only “vaguely” recalled it without being told it involved Kavanaugh. Ken Appold, one of those who did hear that it was Kavanaugh, wasn’t present at the event and, according to the Times reporters, couldn’t remember who told him about it. Yet another of the corroborators heard that it involved Kavanaugh — but only from Appold.

Against these details, the book also includes passages boosting Kavanaugh that also were left out of the Times article. The authors report that Leland Keyser, a onetime friend of Christine Blasey Ford, came to question Ford’s account that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her at a high school house party. Keyser had been named by Ford as one of those present at the party when the assault occurred. But Keyser — after initially saying she didn’t remember being at the party but that she believed Ford — no longer does so and told the authors that she was pressured by Ford’s allies to change her story. “I was told behind the scenes that certain things could be spread about me if I didn’t comply,” she is quoted as saying.

55

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

« on: September 17, 2019, 11:22:17 am »

They call anything and everything fake news if it does not fit their agenda.

I agree.

56

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

« on: September 17, 2019, 10:16:21 am »

I don't really get the problem with it, personally.

If a bunch of people saw it happen, but she doesn't recall it, seems like it still probably happened.

I bet ol' Drunk Dick McSupremeCourtJustice doesn't remember it either.

I guess the problem is it plays into the "Fake News" narrative.  It's going to be called fake news by Trump supporters no matter what, but leaving out these details gave something of substance to be pointed to backing up the fake news claim.

57

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

« on: September 16, 2019, 12:37:51 pm »

NEWSFLASH:  Justice Kavanaugh is a rapey drunk.

As has been said already about the media jumping to be the 1st to break a story. Now the Times has revised it's story to include that the accuser originally claiming the incident declined to be interviewed and her friends say she does't recall it.

What's that about?

58

Beer and Queso / Re: In Case You Missed It, Joe West Edition...

« on: September 05, 2019, 07:59:30 am »

MLB In Game Back Massage (Joe West Version)

59

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)

« on: September 04, 2019, 02:30:02 pm »

There was a flagpole on it, and the pole was in play. Richie Sexton hit it with a monster blast and had to settle for a double.

Yea, I remember White Sox fans coming on here whining about the foul pole during the World Series in 05.

I didn't watch Sexton's blast live but saw highlights after the fact. 1 in a billion shot.

60

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)

« on: September 04, 2019, 02:23:03 pm »

Why? No fence to run into, gradual slope, embarrassment from falling down might injure pride. Twisted ankle? I suppose that is possible. I liked The Hill but really like what the Astros did with CF.

Fences are the issue for hurting OFers.

I remember Berkman falling down trying to make a catch going up the hill. They should have put a flagpole or something on the Hill to make it more challenging.

61

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

« on: August 26, 2019, 02:13:53 pm »

Heard on the radio this morning that he was seriously asking his "cabinet" why we couldn't drop a nuke on a hurricane in the Atlantic to keep it from hitting the US.

Why not just build a wall? That'll keep them out. #@Making weather great again.

62

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

« on: August 21, 2019, 12:03:15 pm »

And in typically unremarkable news Trump today said that Jews that vote Democratic (read 80% of American Jews) are disloyal and he is cancelling a trip to Denmark because they won’t discuss selling Greenland.

Yes, very disloyal to the 2nd coming of God. Well he didn't actually say that himself. He was just tweeting a tweet when someone else said it.

63

Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today

« on: August 19, 2019, 08:40:21 am »

CFA does an outstanding job of training customer service.  I have tasted better food in other fast food places but I have never had better service than I have had in CFAs.  The service impacts how people feel about the food.

I don't know about other areas, but the CFA's in the Beaumont area are clean and service is excellent. They won me when my kids were young and I pulled into the CFA parking lot just as it started raining. My youngest was still in a car seat. I jumped out of the car and was working to get the car seat out when an umbrella went over me sheilding me from the rain. A gentleman had walked out to help. He walked me into the CFA and then I noticed his name tag. He was the manager. I thanked him and he went back to the parking lot to walk someone else in. That's not ordinary fast food service.

Popeye's restaurants on the other hand around here are just nasty.  Is it really that hard to do some basic cleaning?

64

Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019

« on: August 16, 2019, 10:18:05 am »

Wanna say I'm enjoying the stories about who some of y'all rooted for before the Stros!

I deliver meals on wheels to a 92 year old that loves talking baseball.  I'd read the book he wrote...if he ever wrote down these incredible stories.

65

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 31, 2019, 04:03:02 pm »

2017 We're all surprised by the Verlander deal
2018 Cole and almost Harper

And like those past 2 years the Greinke trade comes out of no where.  This Astros front office is incredible at keeping TRUE rumors contained.

66

Talk Zone / Re: Our info source

« on: July 31, 2019, 09:37:38 am »

Apparently Madbum may still be an option. They like Rojas at RR. Do it.

Wow! Really hoping for this.

67

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 29, 2019, 02:00:59 pm »

Here's a report of Stroman's supposed reaction to the news...
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/report-marcus-stroman-wasnt-happy-he-was-traded-to-a-team-out-of-the-race-163735394.html

68

Talk Zone / Re: Bauer Power

« on: July 29, 2019, 10:16:24 am »

He wants to represent in next years HR derby.

He told Francona putting his hand on his shoulder for emphasis, "See I can launch it over the fence."

69

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 29, 2019, 09:44:14 am »

But, then again, it doesn’t because Noah has two years of arb. left and Stroman only has one.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Trying to understand the Mets getting Stroman...co-worker was joking that since most contenders are in the market for pitching the Mets are making the smart business move to corner the market for said commodities.

70

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 29, 2019, 07:41:11 am »

Sort of a two-part approach to a three-way deal?  They can now trade Snydergard for Tucker & Fisher and a box of bolts and declare success.

That would make more sense as an explanation than them thinking that after sweeping the Pirates they're now one starter away from winning it all.

71

Talk Zone / Re: Tyler White traded to the Dodgers

« on: July 25, 2019, 04:35:04 pm »

Not anywhere unless it is a bad team.

Ouch...

72

Talk Zone / Re: Tyler White traded to the Dodgers

« on: July 25, 2019, 04:24:09 pm »

I love Kemp, but tap the brakes on everyday player. The Astros used him well last year, but the roster is too crowded now. Of course sending Straw down was “logical,” but it seems Luhnow/Hinch see Straw differently than you do.

I agree, he won't be an everyday player on the Astros.

73

Talk Zone / Re: Tyler White traded to the Dodgers

« on: July 25, 2019, 03:33:49 pm »

I won't argue that Kemp is the better player but thought they might send  Straw down so he could get regular playing time (more time at SS, etc.) and be ready for a call back up when rosters expanded.  I wouldn't think he would get a lot of playing time on the club the rest of the way barring unfortunate circumstances (yes, I knocked on wood).

Yea, I thought Straw being sent down was the logical choice. He's played well enough to stay but has options.

If the reports are correct and a DFA is coming for Kemp (I hoping for a starting pitcher trade package)...I absolutely don't want to see Kemp go. Great player and tremendous clubhouse guy. Although, Kemp deserves to be an everyday player. He's not going to get that in Houston.

74

Talk Zone / Re: Tyler White traded to the Dodgers

« on: July 25, 2019, 02:56:22 pm »

I’ve been starting to wonder if the org has plans for Straw that are filed away in a folder marked “Life after Correa”


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Do you mean Straw as the everyday SS in that life after Correa? Correa's laser accurate canon arm though!

Correa is a plus defender at SS. Straw starting everyday at SS to me is not an option. Filling in as a spot start while Correa has been out has helped. From what I've seen, Straw seems to have adequate range, decent glove, but not yet comfortable with throws to 1st.

It's a sharp drop in defense going from Correa to Straw.

I could see Straw as a "light" life after Marisnick 4th outfielder. "Light" being less pop & not quite as good a defender despite Straw's elite speed. Straw may be able to hit for more avg than Jake.

75

Talk Zone / Re: 4th starter

« on: July 21, 2019, 07:55:37 pm »

Thanks to American Airlines, my wife and I got to rent a car and drive home from DFW last night. She kept reading me the play-by-play from the MLB app on her phone, and when we started out Urquidy was already in the 3rd inning, and I was thanking the BBGs. And then he kept going, and as he kept knocking off successive innings, I couldn't believe our good fortune. Just a tremendous outing for him and a much-needed shot in the arm for the team.

A lot to ask, but could your wife read you the play-by-play, starting in the 3rd inning his next start? I think getting a rental and driving it around is asking too much from y'all, but that's always an option if you really want to!

76

Game Zone 2019 / Re: Angels at Astros- July 7, 2019

« on: July 07, 2019, 05:25:54 pm »

No reason for Jake to cut inside at the last minute except to initiate contact.  The rule is clear.  The catcher must offer a lane, and the runner must take it.  Like it or not, that's the rule.  The runner cannot change his angle to the plate and initiate contact.

That's a fair take...although I think slowed down Marisnick went to the inside before Lucroy gave the outside lane.

77

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 03, 2019, 03:02:50 pm »

Make no mistake,  he was freaking pissed in that game.

He obviously (and rightfully) had much to say and he still held his tongue until he knew he threw his last pitch. To me that indicates much maturity.

If they have misgivings about Cole, it's likely simply related to whatever math they use to correlate predicted on field performance to cost.

This

78

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 03, 2019, 01:37:08 pm »

I always wonder if they don't have every confidence in Cole's temperament.

I've never seen any indication of problems in his temperament. I've always liked his mound presence. Seems calm for the most part. I can think of a few games early in the season I felt the ump (Kulpa?) was squeezing him with the strike zone & he was visibly upset...not overly upset. Until he threw what he knew would be his last pitch. Then you could see him make a bee line to the HP ump, giving him his thoughts. To me, that showed an extreme amount of restraint in a era that many are showing "personality".

79

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 03, 2019, 01:03:19 pm »

It seems to me that guys they want to keep beyond their current contract have already signed.  Verlander, Bregman, Altuve vs Cole, Correa, Springer.

Looking back at some of the reports written about extension negotiations before the season, I have to agree. 

From the below, Cole indicates that he hadn't received any offers at the time of the article.
https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2019/03/latest-on-extension-talks-between-justin-verlander-astros.html

Cole seems to have snuffed out any possibility of a deal coming together in his case. He says “there have been no contract negotiations,” as Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.

The hurler indicated some displeasure with the situation. He tells Rome that the team asked, and he gave permission to hold a discussion with agent Scott Boras. But there was never any talk beyond that per Cole, who says “this seems more like a phone call negotiation involving the media than anyone else.”

80

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 03, 2019, 11:24:55 am »

What is Boyd's spin rate?

2019
https://maxssportingstudio.com/2019/04/06/the-spin-behind-matt-boyds-early-season-success/
Fastball: 2409 RPM (13th out of 86 pitchers [who have thrown at least 100 pitches (complete pitch mix)]; 84.9 percentile)
Curveball: 2233 RPM (67th out of 83 pitchers; 19.3 percentile)
Slider: 2398 RPM (32nd out of 75 pitchers; 57.3 percentile)

He’s throwing both his slider and fastball with a lot more spin. Although Boyd’s curveball generates less spin than most other curveballs, it has become an even more effective pitch for him. Here are two potential reasons as to why…

There is a greater variation in spin between his curveball and slider (2018: 46 RPM difference vs 2019: 155 RPM difference) now.
His fastball has more spin (more of a rising effect), which gives the curveball a different look.

81

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk

« on: July 03, 2019, 10:21:04 am »

I obviously have no insight into this, but could this (Tucker is untouchable) just be standard negotiating fare.  I've never seen Boyd, or at least i don't recall him; is he a difference maker or just a solid arm?

I'm hoping that stating Tucker is not available for a Boyd type pitcher is just standard negotiating.

Scouting reports indicate he's a flyball pitcher.

Past seasons he's been ok and has never had that high of a pedigree. Seems he's made some changes in 2019 and it's paying off with positive results.

https://blogs.fangraphs.com/here-are-a-few-things-about-matthew-boyd/

After splitting time between the majors and Triple-A in 2016 and 2017, 2018 showed some promise for Boyd. His strikeout rate went up and his walk rate went down. His home run rate also went up and while overall he took a step forward as a decent rotation guy for the Tigers, there was room to improve.

And so far in 2019, Boyd has been a strikeout machine. In three starts, Boyd has racked up 40.3% strikeout rate, the second highest rate the majors behind Blake Snell

This report was written Apr 16. He's number 8 on the strikeout list now.

Also for the 2019 season:

He’s throwing his fastballs higher and burying his sliders way, way lower. Also noteworthy is that he’s avoiding the middle part of the plate more than he did last year.

82

Talk Zone / Re: Cy Sneed

« on: June 27, 2019, 01:02:40 pm »

Here’s last years scouting report on Cy…not really that in depth
https://climbingtalshill.com/2018/05/31/astros-minor-league-spotlight-cy-sneed/

This one goes into a bit more detail but from 2016…
https://whattheheckbobby.blogspot.com/2016/05/getting-to-know-hooks-rhp-cy-sneed.html

83

Talk Zone / Re: Cy Sneed

« on: June 27, 2019, 12:43:46 pm »

Is Cy young?

No, not that Young, but at 26 he is relatively young.

I'll show myself out....

I'll follow...

84

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)

« on: June 20, 2019, 08:11:21 am »

If Julia hadn't eaten that Skyline "chili" the Stros win the last 2 games.

As a disclaimer I believe in taking one for the team...But there aint no chili in that Cincy Skyline sludge right? I always thought slump busting meals had to be some form of chili derivatives, ie...Frito pie and such. Willing to learn if I'm wrong though...

85

Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez

« on: June 17, 2019, 12:01:43 pm »

He's already got so much more plate discipline than Vlad had (or needed). He reminds me of Ortiz/lefty Pujols/Bonds. I can't believe he's, what, 21?

Yea, Vlad was a great hitter. He had the grip it and rip it approach. Swinging at pitches bouncing in the dirt or above his head. Surprisingly making contact! Moises was a professional hitter. Exceptional approach and discipline.

To be equated to either would be an honor for such a young hitter as Alvarez...I'd rather he follow the approach of Moises if I have a choice.

86

Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez

« on: June 11, 2019, 12:39:10 pm »

Only a Yankee deals in absolutes.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Are you absolutely sure that it's only Yankees?

87

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

« on: June 05, 2019, 02:09:56 pm »

you're a total loser, who's probably failing in the ratings too.  Peanut butter cookies (I've had both BudGirl's and Astrojo's, btw) are TREMENDOUS!

There is no fence to sit on between chocolate chip and PB. Wrong is wrong no matter the opinion of the majority.

88

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

« on: June 05, 2019, 01:56:20 pm »

oh shit, you left out peanut butter.

Chocolate chip is the only option for a deal. I walk away at oatmeal raisin, PB...etc.  Walk away carrying my head high too. Sometimes you just have to take a stand for what is right.

89

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

« on: June 05, 2019, 11:19:32 am »

Don't worry, Trump will smack them back in line.  They'll dip their heads, say they're sorry, and get a cookie.

Yes, but what kind of cookie? Chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin? It makes a huge difference for most folks.

90

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)

« on: May 30, 2019, 02:43:24 pm »

http://mentalfloss.com/article/29000/24-most-bizarre-injuries-baseball-history

From the above list, Griffey's to me is a no doubt #1. What tha crap man?

# 6. According to the legend of Clarence Blethen, the Red Sox rookie pitcher in 1923 thought he looked meaner without his false teeth when he was on the mound. He supposedly didn't think to put them back in his mouth while he batted. That led to Blethen sliding into second base and getting bit in the posterior by his own teeth.

Correa's will be on some future lists no doubt.

91

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)

« on: May 29, 2019, 02:33:59 pm »

What are the odds of a * * now?   

And no, not jinxing the guy --- just saying the way things are going, he's in line for the next episode of * ER

Please kindly delete this post and give proper tribute immediately.

A Giles self punch to the face is a good place to start...

92

Talk Zone / MLB & MiLB Base Salary Pay

« on: May 22, 2019, 01:04:56 pm »

Recently, there was some good discussion here about MLB pay for free agents.

Well, here's an article about the need to restructure MiLB pay. I'm in agreement with the article that the guys grinding it out in the minors should be compensated more...
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/carter-stewart-atlanta-braves-japan-mlb-035223869.html

93

Talk Zone / Re: Express 5/14

« on: May 15, 2019, 01:00:59 pm »

"Houston Astros fans couldn’t care less where Waldo is."

Story of my life.

If it helps, I'm fairly certain they misspelled Front Page

94

Talk Zone / Re: Express 5/14

« on: May 15, 2019, 10:40:00 am »

Along with Jim's views of the game, here's a link to a synopsis of who Luhnow was at the game to see. I don't think there is much to debate about Luhnow's attendance.
https://therunnersports.com/houston-astros-gm-jeff-luhnow-showed-up-at-aaa-round-rock-express-game/

Hey, there's even a Waldo reference...not that Waldo though.

95

Talk Zone / Re: Express 5/14

« on: May 14, 2019, 03:10:32 pm »

No miracles today. 15-6 final.

Ouch...Gameday showing that after going 3 for 5 today, Alvarez is hitting .403 for the season.

96

Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019

« on: May 14, 2019, 01:55:25 pm »

Crane: “we want to keep Marwin and Keuchel.” How do you keep him without at least asking what it will take?

Yea, no doubt that Luhnow did his part in starting the conversation to keep him. Marwin obviously wanted to test the market. All while Diaz is filling the role for a MUCH lesser price.   

97

Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019

« on: May 14, 2019, 01:19:47 pm »

I will always hold Marwin as special. Diaz is my guy now.

Always liked Marwin except his plodding around between pitches. I hope him the best except when facing the good guys.

To me defense is where Marwin separates himself from Diaz so far. Diaz made a great play to his right at 2nd last night, but he doesn't look comfortable in the outfield. He doesn't show to have Marwin's arm strength at SS or outfield either.

I haven't seen any indication that the Astros made Marwin an offer. Although, I have no doubt that if Marwin asked to stay (for a reasonable amount) the Astros would have made that offer in a heartbeat. The Stros signing Diaz early to me indicates that Marwin made it clear he wanted to test the market.

98

Talk Zone / Re: Miley

« on: May 14, 2019, 08:25:26 am »

Or, in Clemens terms, two years.

With skipped road trips if he's not scheduled to start!

99

Talk Zone / Re: Miley

« on: May 11, 2019, 05:09:46 pm »

Keuchel will see more offers after the draft when the associated draft pick compensation disappears. But he probably still won't like the offers.

I agree. Seems any 1 year offers would be much lower since it would be after June 3rd-5th and he would need some time in the minors before pitching on the MLB club. 1 year offer...Guess we should call it a 5 month contract!

100

Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel - The Principled Social Warrior Of Fairness

« on: May 07, 2019, 11:19:01 am »

I'm sure the player's union pays close attention to MLB revenue and want to maintain their slice of the pie, but the better way to do that is to pay minor leaguer's and young players more and not overpay mid-tier guys like Keuchel.

Exactly!

101

Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel - The Principled Social Warrior Of Fairness

« on: May 07, 2019, 08:51:50 am »

Maybe I missed something, but I think the only Astros offers I've read about were in the $18mm AAV range, like the 2016 offer, a similar standing offer prior to this past offseason, and then the $17.9mm QO.

You didn't miss anything. You're correct about the offers that were reported. I was mistaken about the amount of the reported 2 year offer. From more reading I've yet to see a money amount attached to the 2 year offer. My mistake.

102

Talk Zone / Keuchel - The Principled Social Warrior Of Fairness

« on: May 07, 2019, 08:14:13 am »

The writer did his best to paint Dallas as that no nonsense warrior for what is right. Patiently trying to battle for the greater good of all.
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/dallas-keuchel-knows-what-hes-worth-and-will-not-settle-035643666.html

Didn't the Astros offer 2 years at 18MM? I'm having a really hard time being sympathetic to 9MM a year not being enough fair pay to play baseball.

103

Beer and Queso / Re: Infinity War (Spoilers)

« on: May 06, 2019, 02:20:05 pm »

Yep, X-Men movies have been patchy, but now it's all in one house, it's going to get very complicated, methinks.

Like Wanda and Quicksilver already making appearances when Magneto (MCU) hasn't. Although I think they did something in the comics recently to undo him being good old dad. I haven't kept up with the comics since the early 90's

On the flip side - Deadpool + Guardians.

How long will a chimichanga last in space?

104

Beer and Queso / Re: Infinity War (Spoilers)

« on: May 06, 2019, 01:33:06 pm »

I also read that the massive energy surge that traveled around the globe from Thanos' first snap will pave the way for Disney to introduce mutants.  Now they have a reason for them to be around.

Weirdly, I'm not in the least interested in the X Men Dark Phoenix movie. I thought First Class was good, Days Of Future Past was great and then was really looking forward to Age Of Apocalypse. IMO Fox dropped the ball with Apocalypse.

Glad the rights are now back with Marvel. I expect good things MCU. Ok?

105

Beer and Queso / Re: Infinity War (Spoilers)

« on: May 06, 2019, 01:01:21 pm »

Especially as they clearly had the Lebowski thing going from the start. 

Quill dancing and singing without the inside soundtrack was hilarious too.

I'm stoked for the Azgardians Of The Galaxy.

106

Beer and Queso / Re: Infinity War (Spoilers)

« on: May 06, 2019, 08:11:59 am »

Do you know who owns the right to the Silver Surfer these days? 

Not sure you can make a good movie from him, but still essential Marvel character.

Silver Surfer was part of Fox. Now that Disney has acquired Fox, Silver Surfer is...will be...er should be part of the MCU.

Supposedly there are plans for a Silver Surfer movie.
https://wegotthiscovered.com/movies/marvel-studios-planning-silver-surfer-origins-movie/

107

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)

« on: May 02, 2019, 09:07:38 am »

Google tells me that he'll be in a cast for a month minimum.

From an article I read this morn:
https://www.mlb.com/news/impact-of-corey-kluber-s-injury-on-indians
Blue Jays prospect Nate Pearson suffered a similar injury last May and missed the remainder of the season. He was throwing live BP by August.

108

Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez

« on: April 29, 2019, 03:35:05 pm »

Has Keuchel had any other offers?

Only offers I've seen were 1 & 2 year deals, both from the Astros. Other teams like Philly & Atlanta were interested, but no offers were reported.

109

Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez

« on: April 29, 2019, 03:24:23 pm »

They tried to sign him two different times and he said no. That would do it for me.

He really overvalued himself.

Although, he would get one more strike from me.  After that I punch him out, so he can retire to his dugout.

110

Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez

« on: April 29, 2019, 12:45:55 pm »

As it stands now, Keuchel has outsmarted himself. He could be making an $18MM annual salary pitching for a contending team and backed by top hitters and defenders - a dream job for an MLB pitcher.
I wonder how he is viewed in the current clubhouse. Would Luhnow have him back even at a bargain price?

He certainly left millions on the table not accepting the deals he was supposed to have been offered.

Keuchel always seemed to get along well with teammates. No reason for them to not warmly welcome a previous Cy Young, left-handed innings eater to help the club! As far as Luhnow, everyone likes a bargain right?

I know he's been throwing simulated games every 5 days, but after not facing MLB hitters, could he jump straight into the rotation? Effectively?

111

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

« on: April 26, 2019, 12:19:25 pm »

My view of the ACA is this:

A pitcher went in with shoulder pain. He was informed that he had a tear in his rotator cuff, and would need major surgery to correct it, plus he needed mechanical changes to prevent it from recurring. The pitcher said no way could he do that, so instead he got a cortisone shot for the inflammation.

Now, did the cortisone help? Sure. But did it do anything to address the underlying issues? No.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Very fitting analogy!

112

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

« on: April 26, 2019, 12:17:04 pm »

Which is pretty fucking nice, considering the crap coverage they had before didn't cover things they might actually need it for - you know, the illnesses they already had - while the "crap" coverage they have now, does.  Also, the ACA stops the insurance company from dumping you as soon as you become expensively sick, so there's that too.

Yes, very much agreed on the pre-existing illness coverage!  Although, at least with the crap coverage they had before they really liked their doctor...new insurance. He gone. Doh!

113

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

« on: April 26, 2019, 10:04:47 am »

But people's crap coverage had already been getting more expensive since the 70s and especially the late 90s.  See third graph at https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/snapshots-health-care-spending-in-the-united-states-selected-oecd-countries/

Exactly! That was my main point in my previous post. My biggest gripe with the ACA was not addressing the out of control spending.

So costs were already spiraling out of control (especially relative to other countries), under administrations and Congresses from both parties.  I know that the ACA itself has problems (I think it was myopic in a lot of ways, and didn't adequately plan for things like providers leaving certain markets entirely and dropping their insured) and doesn't have the teeth to directly address many of the biggest problems in the health care and health insurance industries.  And I was personally negatively affected by the ACA, when my wife's private PPO plan first got downgraded to an HMO and then canceled entirely when United left Texas, and then paying the penalty at tax time when we didn't carry insurance on her for a while afterward.   But I can respect that it's done some good, including slowing the rise of health care expenses since it's been enacted.

Has it slowed the rise of expenses? I haven't seen that personally.
I've seen studies showing that expenses for hospital services are 60% higher in the US. Other areas are more expensive than other countries also, but 60% more for hospital services is obscene!

114

Beer and Queso / Re: Infinity War (Spoilers)

« on: April 26, 2019, 07:23:58 am »

I'm throwing my money into that pot!

I will be also! My son has ball games this weekend so I'll have to tiptoe the internet to remain spoiler free until we can see it next weekend.

115

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

« on: April 26, 2019, 07:21:28 am »

Me.  Because without the ACA they would not have been able to get plans that covered shit.  As for rating etc., this is the problem with trying to cover everyone in a system designed to select against the sick or likely to get sick.  There's a reason why the rest of the first world (and many others) don't do it the way we do.

My sister and bro n law are both self employed. They had expensive crap coverage before and expensive crap coverage now. Only positive I see coming out of the ACA is preexisting illness coverage.

The website roll out was effed up for sure.  Conservatives made a big song and dance about it while throwing recollections of the clusterfuck that was Bush's Medicare Part D rollout down the memory hole.

Pelosi's gaffe wasn't a gaffe at all; she made a long, legitimate statement, from which a fragment was culled and paraded as if it was tattooed on her forehead.  Also, the audience mattered; it was couched as having been spoken to Congress, when it was actually at a public-speaking engagement.

Thanks for the greater context. First I've seen it.

Agreed.  The point about Mueller is that much was made of him not coming to a decision, when that is far from the truth.

Yes, agreed

116

Talk Zone / Re: 1st Place, Fish-slingers, and the schedule so far...

« on: April 26, 2019, 07:12:39 am »

I'm surprised about Tampa's standings too, but I'm thinking fish slingers is in reference to Seattle.

117

Beer and Queso / Re: Infinity War (Spoilers)

« on: April 24, 2019, 11:17:27 am »

Also saying there is a possibility for Endgame to hit the 1 billion mark for a worldwide opening weekend. Opening weekend...
https://www.thewrap.com/could-avengers-endgame-actually-make-1-billion-in-its-opening-weekend/

118

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

« on: April 24, 2019, 11:08:00 am »

If you've ever been unemployed and in need of private health insurance, as I have, then you would not call the ACA a bunch of crap.  Also, I presume from your comments that are not 26 or under and still insured on your parents' policy; a parent insuring your under-27-year-old on your policy; ever been sick enough to hit an annual or lifetime limit; have a pre-existing condition; and/or couldn't afford coverage but were ineligible for Medicaid so used the Emergency Room as your GP.  That's part of the bunch of crap that is the ACA...

Limey,

I had typed a longer reply but lost it...

My basic gripe with the ACA is out of control rates/patient billing.  This was a problem before and has accelerated after the passing of the ACA with my own coverage. The ACA in my experience made the apparent issues worse in this case.  The people I know that have been unemployed or are self employed gripe about the plan/rates they have also. Who's right you or them? I don't know...

As far as it's popularity, changing the time period to all, still comes out with a 50% favorable vs 39% unfavorable. The low popularity began because of a horrible roll-out and Pelosi's gaffe of needing to pass the thing before we find out what was in it.  She pitched the ACA opponents a meatball down the middle on that one.

I have no idea why you brought Mueller not being able to legally make an impeachment referral.  My point is that if Democrats feel there is enough evidence to impeach then that should be done. I jumped into the conversation because it was being stated that it's not in the Democrats best interests.

119

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

« on: April 24, 2019, 07:39:02 am »

I was SO hoping it was Gilbert Gottfried.

With additional commentary by Bobcat Goldthwait!

120

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

« on: April 23, 2019, 04:26:42 pm »

The Democrats - fighting against a spittle-filled headwind - pushed through the ACA because it was good for the people of the country.  They got run out of Congress on a rail as a result.

Count me as one that was not in favor of and is still not in favor of the ACA. The health care system before the ACA had issues...all the ACA did was replace an old bucket of crap with a freshened bucket of crap.   

Now the ACA is more popular than it's ever been...

The ACA's popularity is still not that favorable...50% of all adults
https://www.kff.org/interactive/kff-health-tracking-poll-the-publics-views-on-the-aca/#?response=Favorable--Unfavorable&rMax=1549440993103.4482&rMin=1486368993103.448

...such that the Republicans - even with control of both chambers of Congress and the White House - couldn't undo it because it would have been politically untenable.  That's the Democrats putting the country over politics...and of Republicans putting political survival ahead of fulfilling a near-decade long campaign promise.

The Republicans reluctance not to touch the ACA had little to do with survival.  Republicans from Republican districts constituents wanted the ACA absolved. Although once it was passed it's now part of a system. Pulling out unwanted parts destroys the system. 

I also agree with JBM in that not proceeding with impeachment for the sake of the country because it's not the best political strategy is doing a disservice to those who elected them.  That goes for all elected officials regardless of party affiliation.

I hate this political climate that points fingers and says, "oh yea, well they did/didn't do it too".
"That old law about 'an eye for an eye' leaves everybody blind. The time is always right to do the right thing."

121

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

« on: April 16, 2019, 02:19:04 pm »

Even less collective teeth in the audience?

They're all related.  Even Ned who is his own grandpa.

122

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

« on: April 16, 2019, 02:16:42 pm »

Marvel also had the foresight to develop an outline for all of these individuals to build a cohesive story and universe, as opposed to Kennedy, who told Abrams and Johnson to take the world's most valuable film franchise and essentially enact the creative writing exercise where one person starts a story and another one picks it up and so on... except it wasn't an exercise.

...and ended up sounding like a Mad Libs story...

123

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

« on: April 16, 2019, 12:00:16 pm »

The town hall was in Bethlehem Pa. Take the event to Kentucky and you'll get a different take I bet.

124

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

« on: April 14, 2019, 07:48:13 am »

Yeah, that is what I was looking for.    I'm going to reserve judgement on the new story arc...   The 'cartoons' that they made DisneyXD were really good so there's hope yet.

I'm sure I'll be watching at least the 1st of the new arc. Johnson needs to do better than Last Jedi to hold my attendance for any others though.

Agreed on the cartoons...Clone Wars was for the most part was really good to great (Cartoon Network). Rebels was excellent (Disney XD). My kids are teenagers now so we've never got into Resistance.

125

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

« on: April 13, 2019, 07:33:02 pm »

Well, they had announced last year that they had someone working on a completely new arc...   Have to see if I can find the reference.

I think the new arc is helmed by Rian Johnson. I petty much hated what he did with Last Jedi, so yay or something.
https://sciencefiction.com/2018/09/04/yes-rian-johnson-still-making-star-wars-trilogy/

126

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

« on: April 13, 2019, 07:23:52 pm »

It’s so weird that Disney got the MCU mostly right, but completely shit the bed when handed an established, wildly successful franchise.

Marvel had Kevin Feige to keep a vision that had already started before Disney.  Disneys contribution was to keep out of Feige's way.

127

Talk Zone / Re: Cuban players/Trump/stupidity

« on: April 08, 2019, 04:25:13 pm »

Here's a little more detail into it...
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/trump-administration-moves-to-stop-ml-bs-historic-deal-with-cuba-202944052.html

128

Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI

« on: March 28, 2019, 02:00:55 pm »

105

129

Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019

« on: March 25, 2019, 01:18:00 pm »

For us non-twits, what'd they do/say?

130

Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019

« on: March 25, 2019, 01:15:35 pm »

Yesterday the bullpen held their own press conference for Ryan Pressly

Sometimes I think about getting on Twitter just to follow Astros related stuff. But then some kid distracts me by standing on my lawn.

131

Talk Zone / Re: Spring Training 2019

« on: March 18, 2019, 08:35:09 am »

Jim, you are knowledgeable. What do you think about his swing? I know that to me, traditionally, lefties have beautiful swings. Tucker’s is borderline ugly to me and it looks uncomfortable to the eye. It almost looks like he’s being restrained or held back when he swings. Now that really doesn’t matter if the dude hits and that’s all he has done coming up, but it is hard to ignore all of the “baseball people” who have said his swing is a problem.

I hope he pans out, but I will not complain if we move him for Robbie Ray (or someone other proven pitcher) later in the year. Toro, Straw and Alvarez are proof that we have deep talent if we want to move Tucker.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Unfortunately last spring Tucker was compared to Ted Williams. It was a silly comparison to make for a young kid learning to play the game.

https://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-outfielder-prospect-Kyle-Tucker-nickname-12713127.php

Although Crawfishboxes recently did a good breakdown of his swing and tendencies here…

https://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-outfielder-prospect-Kyle-Tucker-nickname-12713127.php

132

Talk Zone / Re: Preseason Panic

« on: February 28, 2019, 07:16:47 am »

I'm still smarter than you're!

133

Talk Zone / Re: Astros OF Defense

« on: February 18, 2019, 04:21:32 pm »

Cesar Cedeno, five time gold glove winner at center field in the NL.

Finley had 5 gold gloves! Just none while with the Stros...

134

Talk Zone / Re: Arb-Eligible Players 2018

« on: February 14, 2019, 03:40:02 pm »

Here's an article that clears up the reference to giving to charity and being a terrible human being...Originally I had no idea what that was about.
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/trevor-bauer-accuses-indians-character-assassination-salary-arbitration-hearing-183648896.html

The guy is wackadoodle...

135

Talk Zone / Re: Arb-Eligible Players 2018

« on: February 14, 2019, 12:41:23 pm »

To the contrary, Bauer said that the arbitration hearing was fine until the last ten minutes which he described as “character assassination.”  He’s a fairly precious guy but if I were an employer I would work hard to avoid instilling such feelings. Credit to the Astros for being professional.

The article I read about it went to describe Bauer sending a personal formal invite to the team President and GM.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/trevor-bauer-accuses-indians-of-character-assassination-in-arbitration-hearing/ar-BBTAAsh?li=BBnb7Kz
“I sent them a nice 'Plus One' invite, a postcard, designed it all myself," Bauer said. “It said, “You are formally invited to the attend the arbitration hearing between Trevor Bauer and the Cleveland Indians. The date, the location, you and plus-one, the whole deal. And they decided not to come."

I guess he wanted the whole process to stay professional and such. Very professional of Tyler to add the plus one!

136

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)

« on: February 12, 2019, 03:48:58 pm »

Or hundreds of millions in order to own a franchise that exists to play a game.

It'd be awesome if I could bring my family to a game.  Before we had kids my wife and I would go to the game together. It's not worth it for her she says.  Now, my son and I catch a game a year. My daughter has begun watching and wants to go. . .Gotta save for those type expenses!

137

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)

« on: February 12, 2019, 02:37:31 pm »

Meanwhile, JV is bitching on twitter:

Sounds like someone is in the last year of a contract.

For Bryce, he was offered 10yrs/$300 Million from the Nationals back in Nov and again in Jan.

For Machado, it's reported that he was offered 8yrs/$250 Million.

That's a lot of money! To me at least, but I'm not making millions to play a game.

138

Beer and Queso / Re: Rockets

« on: January 24, 2019, 11:15:35 am »

I mean, could you do that on a video game if you tried?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

NBA Jam "HE'S ON FIRE!"

Beyond that I wouldn't know. I never graduated past the Sega Genesis

139

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 HOF Ballot

« on: January 23, 2019, 11:24:26 am »

The freshest Rose story out there is the sexual misconduct one.

He ain't getting in.  Ever.

I somehow missed ever hearing about that.

140

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 HOF Ballot

« on: January 23, 2019, 09:25:52 am »

Put him in. I don’t think exclusion from the hall makes sense as a punishment. I find his being on MLB broadcasts way more distasteful than including him in the HOF.

Ok, I think Rose eventually gets in, but I'm not sure it's within his lifetime.

141

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 HOF Ballot

« on: January 23, 2019, 09:13:11 am »

I hope that’s not how it happens. Seeing the “asterisk” ball in person at the HOF put it all in perspective for me. People trying to keep Bonds & Clemens out of the hall, or to somehow mar their memorabilia there, are just trying to insert themselves into history. It’s so selfish, so petty. There I was, looking at the record-setting HR ball, realizing there’ll forever be a big asterisk carved into it because some rich asshole wanted to write himself into the story. It sucked.

Let them in and trust the fans to make their own judgments on the history.

What do we do with Pete Rose then?

142

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

« on: January 23, 2019, 08:30:57 am »

He was a Viet Nam era vet, I honor him for that. If he ever misrepresented himself as being a combat veteren, he has no credibility. None. Just another poliical pawn.

I haven't seen where Phillips himself claimed to be a combat veteran. Several media accounts reported that he was a Vietnam veteran but gives no quotes that Philips stated this or that he was claiming combat veteran status.

143

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 HOF Ballot

« on: January 23, 2019, 07:46:51 am »

I've always been surprised at Pettitte's low numbers.  I thought he'd be in by now (not that I think he deserves it, but he *was* a Yankee, after all).

As for the potentials...I think Schilling will eventually get in, but not sure about Bonds or Clemens (at least on the BBWAA ballot).  Yes, they are trending up, but I think they've kind of maxed out the voters who are willing to vote for them.

Some of it probably has to do with Pettitte admitting to doping with HGH...the voters not voting for Bonds or Clemens are not voting for him

144

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

« on: January 22, 2019, 02:43:12 pm »

“In a garden, things grow . . . but first, they must wither; trees have to lose their leaves in order to put forth new leaves, and to grow thicker and stronger and taller. Some trees die, but fresh saplings replace them. Gardens need a lot of care. But if you love your garden, you don’t mind working in it, and waiting. Then in the proper season you will surely see it flourish.”

I grow tomatoes. You always cut-off the suckers. Pruning is painful but produces the greatest yield.

145

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

« on: January 22, 2019, 02:33:20 pm »

They aren't my kids but if they were I'd probably do my best to put some sense into them.  If that were my spouse/brother, etc. I'd have a discussion.

Ok, thought you were only talking about accountability to the original confrontation. I haven't seen the sexual  harassment video yet, so it wasn't were my mind went.

After all, my brother already says inappropriate things so it's not a new concept for me.  There's no reason you can't learn something regardless of the age.

As the twig is bent the tree inclines. Young twigs are easy to mold. As the tree matures it's tougher to bend. It'll resist sometimes to the point of breaking. 

Do I think they should be held accountable by going to jail?  No, but they (all of them)need to realize they were lucky this didn't turn into something violent.  But, they are all sitting there probably laughing at the attention they are getting for being a bunch of dumbasses.

Could some of them be laughing, sure. No need to judge all these kids as you did though.  But from what can be seen at this point, I don't agree all of them acted like dumbasses.

146

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

« on: January 22, 2019, 02:18:22 pm »

I said they all need to be held accountable

Just curious, what kind of accountability would you have in mind?

If I saw a video of my kids (teenagers) doing a tomahawk in front of Native Americans, I would certainly use it (I'd be disappointed at them and myself as a parent) as a teachable moment.

147

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

« on: January 22, 2019, 02:05:38 pm »

Because it's not as cut and dry as you might want to indict these kids as anything other than being kids.

I completely agree with you here!

Not directed at you Noe, but for the greater conversation what is cut and dry is this. The obvious racist in the crowd were the Black Hebrew Israelite's. Any other claim of racism is inferred by viewing perception of a video.

I feel the interactions between Phillips and Sandmann could easily be a misunderstanding.

This is how I see it…
I believe Mr Phillips when he said he intended to calm the situation between the 2 groups. Watching the video, I agree with him that it seemed to be escalating, tensions rising (Between the Hebrew Israelites and the Covington kids).

Mr Phillips walks into the crowd. Walking through, Mr Phillips stops in front of Sandmann drumming (Probably not the most intelligent choice to diffuse anything...yeah it's odd Lol). I really don’t think Sandmann nor any of the other kids understood why Mr Phillips did as he did.  The reactions were varied.  Some expressed their confusion. Some reactions where to chant w/ the drum on beat. A few did the tomahawk (Do the kids know that this is a racist gesture?). Mr Phillips intentions were obviously not understood by one of his own, as it can be heard him telling kids to go back to Europe.

For Sandmann’s part I see no racist intent. In the other video from a different angle he’s not looking at Mr Phillips, but looking ahead…he described his intent here as hoping to diffuse the situation. Same intent as Mr Phillips. I see no reason to side with one and pit against the other. They stated they had the same intent...

148

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 02:25:46 pm »

I helps me understand your support, sure.  Thanks.

A couple of things to unpack here, though.

Illegal entry is at a near 50-year low, it's been at net zero (entries and exits) for a while now.  Security in general - electronic surveillance, border patrols, drones etc. - is one of the main reasons why illegal entry currently is so low.  The smart play is more of that, rather than trying to build a wall that is far less effective than the techniques currently deployed.  Democrats are fine having a budget discussion to fund border security, and have voted consistently for years to fund administration budget requests - including the one Trump made in 2017 (that he hasn't entirely spent yet).

The caravan isn't illegal entry; it's refugees seeking legal asylum.  US and international law allows them to cross into the country without documentation as long as they present themselves to the authorities to have their claim validated or rejected.  In 2017, the acceptance rate was 20%, so it's not like it's an EZ Pass into the country.  But, to be clear, even if they walk through the desert or swim the Rio Grand, as long as they present themselves for asylum, that entry is legal.  What the caravans are doing is legal, under US law.  Legal.

That's all true.  Although, the US and international laws were written with far different circumstances in mind than the country is currently facing. The current laws were established with the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965. This was originally set up for the dangers of Communist regimes and state sponsored ethnic cleansing.  This act was to be a guide for assigning refugee or asylum status.

According to the act refugees are processed outside the US. The reason asylum seekers were allowed in and remained to stay until the claim is processed is for the real dangers that could happen if they return to their country of origin.  As a government we are now struggling with a new situation that the original act never intended to mitigate.

149

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 01:32:36 pm »

Pew Research lays out their methodology here; says it's very similar to that used by the DHS.

Thanks Limey. Reading through it now...It certainly is not a simple methodology that was used.

150

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)

« on: January 21, 2019, 01:17:38 pm »

Here's something kind of mind-blowing  that I found when looking up that Stanton/Harper comparison on baseball-reference...  I looked at all hitters who've had at least 2,000 Plate Appearances since 2014, which is 158 players. Altuve is 3rd in WAR, at 32, behind Trout (44) and Betts (35). Which was only mildly surprising. Rounding out the top 10 were Donaldson, Arenado, Goldschmidt, Cain, Machado, Simmons, Yelich. Stanton was 12th, Harper way down at 33 mainly due to their defensive stats not liking him.

Anyway, here's the crazy stat: Batting Average over that span. Altuve, of course, is #1... then there's a fucking 20-point gap before the next hitter, who by the way is Michael Brantley:

Altuve .331
Brantley .311
D. Murphy .308
JD Martinez .307
Votto .306
Turner .305
Posey .305
Blackmon .304
M. Cabrera .304
Trout .303

The gap between Altuve and #2 is bigger than the gap between #2 and #23.

Altuve is amazing. I'm so glad we get to watch him play for the Astros.

Thanks for this! Although none of it is surprising in terms of Altuve. Not only is he a physically gifted player, but a hard worker and great teammate/team leader.  He also just has a likable personality that is easy to root for. He cracks me up in the HEB commercials.

151

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 01:05:17 pm »

Illegal entry is at a near 50-year low, it's been at net zero (entries and exits) for a while now.

Before I get to your other points can you help me with the above? I can't understand how we could have usable data on illegal entry. Illegal entry would be undocumented, right?

152

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 01:00:51 pm »

Yes, it's multi-factorial but, if it were Trump's immigration stance, we wouldn't be seeing an increase last March.  It's due to increased border security, improvements in technology and increased deportations.  Obama deported more people than any previous President, for example.

I agree with what you wrote...I think the initial decrease was due to perception though.

153

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 12:22:13 pm »

I am curious, what purpose do you think the wall serves for it to garner your support?

To be clear, I don't just give outright support for building a wall at any cost. I don't support the government shutdown for the wall (I agree that the government shutdown is more than just the wall).

I support immigration. I do not support masses of illegals coming into the country. I am glad that there was a wall and border security to uphold the laws of the land in San Diego (Let's not delve into the shooting tear gas canisters please) with one of the more recent caravans. This same caravan busted through the northern border of Mexico. They for the most part were unsuccessful in San Diego.

I am for a longer more budgetary sustainable building of walls along the border. Yea, this would be done over a longer period of time. 

Does that help?

154

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 12:08:43 pm »

Are you just like “for the wall” or chanting “build that wall”?

I'm for the wall. I have never and have no reason to chant build that wall. If someone wants to waste their breath chanting about it, that's up to them.

To me, the wall is like the confederate flag, some people might honestly say that it’s not a racist symbol to them, but certainly can’t convince me that it’s not a racist symbol to many. Similarly, if the wall isn’t a racist symbol and it’s just about border security, why mention the wall at all and not first recognize that border crossings are at recent historical lows. Then after acknowledging that FACT, discuss why its so pressing that a wall is at the center of our national discourse.

It's multi-factoral that border crossings have dropped. Some of it could be lent to perception of a tougher immigration policy of Trump compared to Obama. March of last year they were up again...
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/381796-border-crossings-increased-in-march-after-falling-to-historic-low

After that, discuss why we need to shut down the government to discuss border security.

Are you asking me to discuss this?

155

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 09:58:21 am »

Nathan Phillips claimed it was said to him as he walked through the crowd.  So, not chanted as was reported (and I repeated here).  The sentiment still applies, that the wall is a metaphor for racism, San Antonio be damned.

Appreciate you clearing it up as originally stated.  Now, I'm not saying it didn't happen some other time, but the video is clear that as Phillips approached the boys and as they stood facing each other there was no chanting about the wall. I've seen nothing showing that it did happen. 

As far as your statement that the wall is a metaphor for racism...That's a broad brush you're painting with. I'm for building a wall. Not at the stakes of the government shutdown as is now happening. (I'm additionally annoyed that last years budget towards the wall was unused)

Could the wall be used by some with racist intent? Absolutely! Guess my point is that if the boys were chanting build the wall while at DC, I don't see any need to point to racism. If the boys confronted Mr Phillips and chanted build the wall, then yea, that's indefensibly racist...and would show gross ignorance.

156

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 09:01:05 am »

One can argue that wearing the MAGA hats in the first place was antagonistic in and of itself.  However, my only comment on the matter was that chanting "Build the Wall!" to a Native American (or even African Americans who may have thrown verbal insults previously) simply shows that the wall is about racism, not security.  A wall, at any time during known history, would not keep out someone born here or someone dragged here in chains.

The accusation that I "stepped in some fake news" is a weak jab at a point I was not making.

Did they chant "Build the Wall"?  There's a 2 hour video of the incident. The more recent articles imply that in this 2 hour video it wasn't said.

157

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

« on: January 21, 2019, 07:56:34 am »

The symbolism of the wall was laid bare when those MAGA hat-wearing douches chanted “Build the Wall!” at Vietnam veteran Nathan Phillips...who is Native American.  It’s not about immigration, security or even drugs, it’s about white power.

The media may have jumped to conclusions with the narrative of events here.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/nathan-phillips-nick-sandmann-encounter-a-viral-video-shows-a-different-side/ar-BBSwz7n?li=BBnb7Kz

https://www.yahoo.com/news/student-trump-hat-denies-mocking-native-american-activist-032440995.html

158

Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019

« on: January 20, 2019, 08:46:26 am »

Back around 1979 or 80, an old friend, Ricky, was on his (first) honeymoon and noticed that David Allen Coe had a room on the same hallway of the hotel. He told his bride about it and a bit later after sharing a several drinks together she told him she wanted an autograph. Ricky staggers down the hall and knocks on the door, DAC answers, "What the fuck do you want." My friend tells him, "Sorry to bother you, I'm in a room down the hall and am a big fan. I'm on my honeymoon and thought it would be cool if I could get an autograph for my wife." DAC gives him a blank look, says nothing, and closes the door.

Since he didn't say anything before he closed the door in my friends face, my drunk friend isn't sure if DAC has gone back in the room to get something to autograph, or what. So Rick knocks on the door again. DAC answers, "Why are you still here?" Before Rick could answer why, boom. DAC hits him with a right hook and slams the door shut. Rick was so startled and freaked out by what had just happened that he just staggers back to his room, only to find that his wife had passed out, leaving him with a good bad-honeymoon story.

In the late 90's I went to a DAC concert at a rodeo in Winnie Tx. He was so drunk he fell off his stool several times, blended songs into other songs & just completely missed lyrics. He had a pink, braided goatee...Oh and he brought Pantera on stage with him towards the end for some growling songs that they were famous for. It made for a memorably odd night.

159

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

« on: January 19, 2019, 08:27:02 am »

And just like that, even if only a little bit, Trump’s “enemy of the people” rhetoric has been validated in his mind and the minds of those who support him.

Fucking Buzzfeed. What a worthless piece of shit web site.

You warned everyone.

160

Talk Zone / Re: AL West News 2019

« on: January 18, 2019, 10:25:16 am »

I'm not amazed that teams are planning on lower cable money in the future and want to reign in big contracts.

As has been written elsewhere, teams are seeing greater value in young, cheap, multi-years under club control talent.  The era of the long term big money deal has changed.

I guess where I'm amazed is that it seems all the teams have switched to this direction so quickly.

161

Talk Zone / Re: AL West News 2019

« on: January 18, 2019, 10:20:52 am »

I can't imagine that. He has very good offers. He could screw the pooch on a 1-year deal, or get hurt,  and not come close to his current offers.

Yea, I'm sure Keuchel is weighing that as well.  With many of those teams having signed other options I'm not sure how many offers are still available.

162

Talk Zone / Re: AL West News 2019

« on: January 18, 2019, 09:39:09 am »

Amazing that we are a month or so from Spring Training and so many guys are still unaffiliated.

I'm amazed by this too.  Though, it makes me think that with each passing day there is a greater chance of Keuchel coming back for a 1 year contract.

163

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

« on: January 18, 2019, 08:28:23 am »

We should at least wait until the National Enquirer weighs in on the story.

My initial thought was Waldo was looking for sources for the prayer rugs...I think he was looking for additional sources to Trump ordering Cohen to lie to congress.

164

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

« on: January 16, 2019, 04:00:53 pm »

I didn't watch Solo but I think I'd rather watch a Jar-Jar Binks origin story than watch the Last Jedi again

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

I refused to play the which would you rather game with my son when he was younger.  I choose NEITHER!!!

165

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

« on: January 16, 2019, 03:46:10 pm »

I really just have no desire to see it so I'll take your word for it.

I felt very much the same after watching The Last Jedi. IMO it was just an incoherent buzzkill of a plot. Although, I did watch Solo when it came out on DVD and enjoyed it. Not the best, but a good popcorn flick.   

166

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

« on: January 16, 2019, 07:32:33 am »

The shutdown has nothing to do with a wall.  The wall is a joke.

Agreed.  If it was about the wall it would have been funded during the 2 years that Republicans controlled the House and Senate.

167

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

« on: January 10, 2019, 03:19:28 pm »

Not to open a can of worms, but I think JBM is referring to the American mainstream media's (almost) universal support for making war on Iraq (which was true of the Democratic party as well).

The supposedly liberal American mainstream media has had war fever at least since Hearst and the Spanish-American war. That doesn't mean your left-leaning, muckracker reporters don't exist, just that they are the exception and have a much smaller platform within the larger MSM.

No can of worms necessary, and thanks for clearing that up.  My brain was more or less locked into a thought pattern of more recent media bias examples.

To me, America and the media were completely different in the early 2000's.  After the attacks on the WTC and the Pentagon the country was fairly unified in actions against terrorism...Not that that the war was successful on that front.

168

Talk Zone / Troll Bauer

« on: January 09, 2019, 03:47:19 pm »

Trevor Bauer Twitter habits make him look like a total troll.

https://deadspin.com/trevor-bauer-has-been-harassing-a-woman-for-more-than-a-1831545503

I can't really defend the woman as she didn't have to jump into the conversation, but Bauer just doesn't seem to know how he comes across in these type interactions with fans...or other players.

169

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

« on: January 08, 2019, 03:42:46 pm »

Damn, I could go on forever on this, but some recent ones and some important ones:

1. The airing of his thing tonight.  The only reason they are airing what they fully expect to be propaganda and lies is because they are afraid of the right characterizing them as left leaning or unfair to Trump.  They didn't air Obama's, probably since they didn't view it as news-worthy.  I get that, and have no problem with that; just don't have a double standard;

I agree that some of the airing could be for fear of the rights characterization of bias.  They aren’t going to use the airing to promote the wall. They’re airing to refute afterwards. The airing to refute should be telling.  Also, me thinks they’re airing it for the same reason that Fox News gives so much coverage to Ocasio-Cortez (I don't have a high opinion of her). Both say dumb stuff and give soundbites the network can use.

2. For about a year or longer, the press was cowed into not calling Trumps lies for what they were: lies.  All types of euphemisms were used, justified by a shitload of bad rationales.  Hell, Maggie Haberman (NYT) is still probably trafficking in those bogus rationalizations;

I don't know what you're referring to for this, and you didn’t give examples so I’ll just have to take your word that it happened.

3.  Just look at a typical CNN panel.  Since they are scared to not have a Trump supporter, they have one alongside some Democrat.  It normally proceeds with a complete lie or distraction by the Trump supporter and the resulting "discussion" revolves around that.  If this scenario doesn't ring a bell, just think about Kelly Anne Conway, or Sarah Huckabee, and ask yourself "why do they still give airtime to these lying sack of shits?"  They've dumbed down real and necessary discussion just to accommodate the fear that they'll be called "unfair to Trump;"

I don’t watch Fox News, but my father n law has it on 24/7.  After our house flooded we lived with him for a short while. I’m going to be real careful that I don’t get dragged into defending Fox News here…I’ll say this only to refute your point. Fox News does have panels that include other viewpoints than the hosts.

4.  This example always burns me up.  That motherfucker still hasn't released his tax returns.  The press asked for it for a few weeks during the election, met some transparently bogus resistance, and just flat gave up.  They still don't ask him.  You think Hillary would have been treated that way?  No fucking way;

I can agree with the burn of dropping the release of Tax returns. Although, do you mean the Hillary Clinton that was being fed debate questions ahead of time that a network was going to ask? That Hillary was given a few free passes

5.  The NYT relaying the bogus story, right before the election and sticking to it for over a year, that the FBI had cleared Trump; and, mostly since I am tired

This is a good example

6.  The writeup before the Iraq war

You lost me here...

There are likely hundreds of examples more.  It's difficult to see through the fog, or step outside accepted norms of thought, but the paradigm of liberal bias will crash one day too.

Ok, when you're not so tired you can enlighten me.

170

Talk Zone / Re: Players' View on Most Feared Pitches

« on: January 08, 2019, 02:12:21 pm »

Innuresting. Only one Astro, Verlander, garnered a vote.

That inbed video of Chris Sales slider is redonkulous!

171

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

« on: January 08, 2019, 02:02:14 pm »

Yeah, this is the crowning achievement of right-wing talk radio demagogues. They constantly preach about bias in the media, which destroys the credibility of the mainstream press among their followers. What I  really don't get is that the talk radio hosts, who are universally more biased and less educated on the facts than the mainstream media, never get    scrutinized or called out for their own very apparent bias.

IMO radio doesn't get called out for it's bias (it is biased) because it's barely relevant in the greater conversation. 

What I find interesting from this thread is that many of you don't see media as a whole more liberally biased. To me it's obvious.  Equally obvious that Fox News is conservatively biased.   

172

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

« on: January 07, 2019, 01:08:00 pm »

I'll have to raise my hand since I had to look up what surfeit meant...

173

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster

« on: December 18, 2018, 04:15:13 pm »

The 164 figure was the payroll at the end of 2018. Nate's calculations had the current payroll(before Brantley) at 137 million, so Brantley takes that up to 153 million. Say Cruz takes 15 per year, now we're at 168, 4 million up from last year. So the luxury tax is still a ways off.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

Bundling Reddick in a trade for Realmuto, Kluber or other frees up $13MM, so there's that as a possibility.

174

Talk Zone / Beltran Back With The Evil Empire

« on: December 18, 2018, 03:11:05 pm »

Beltran took a post with the Yankees
https://www.yahoo.com/sports/reports-yankees-hire-beltran-special-assistant-gm-192036665--mlb.html

175

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster

« on: December 18, 2018, 02:25:25 pm »

I love it that Luhnow and Co. are so tight lipped that the Brantley signing comes as a bit of surprise when it did.  Sure Brantley and the Astros were linked in a few rumors, but there wasn't anything that made me assume it was going to happen.  I was like others in thinking that things were really slow for the good guys this offseason. 

Saying that, I come with the reassurance that although the team lost some talent within the front office, there are professionals running the team.

176

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster

« on: December 18, 2018, 08:57:24 am »

Spare parts and Young Glitter for trade?

System Guys       Young Talent        Aging Vets

T White                  T Kemp                 J Reddick
AJ Reed                  M Straw               C McHugh
D Fisher                 K Tucker               
D. Deetz                 JB Bakauskas
M Stassi                  J James
J Marisnick

We have enough here right, everyone to go out and get a Kluber and Realmuto, no?

Not that I want to clear things out, or that I want any of these players out of Houston --- but the just the quantity of players at or near the show "quality" would indicate Jedi Luhnow might be set to make this a very Merry Christmas.

Btw Jim, I concur --- love me some Brantley (file this in the useless but present category

I agree about having enough to get a deal or two done.  Not sure that McHugh would be traded in any situation though.  Pitching is too high of a need and he can supply the need in both a starter or relief role.

177

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster

« on: December 12, 2018, 02:07:07 pm »

Why couldn't the Astros structure the contract so that it pays him less this year and more in subsequent years?  With Verlander and probably Cole coming off the roster next season, there would seem be more financial flexibility.

Right before reading this, I read an article that Mike Hampton is receiving his final payment from the Rockies.

Deals like this have a history of not working out.

178

Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster

« on: December 12, 2018, 09:36:33 am »

It would not surprise me a bit if he pulls off a Kluber deal.

To get Kluber the Astros would have to give up A LOT...But what a rotation if it were to happen!

179

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

« on: December 10, 2018, 01:58:58 pm »

This is just so, so wrong. Impeachment is political suicide for Democrats. I get that it's the right thing to do in the abstract, but it's also the biggest gift they could hand the GOP for 2020. Democratic candidates for House, Senate, and POTUS need to be able to make a positive case for their own policies. In particular, they need to keep the conversation on health care. Do you honestly think anyone will be able to break through with a positive message on health policy while everyone is screaming "IMPEACHMENT IMPEACHMENT IMPEACHMENT" on the airwaves 24/7? It's nonsense.

You have to offer an alternative to the circus. Offer a return to normalcy. Offer people a chance to go a day without being bombarded by the latest absurdity from Washington. Impeachment would do exactly the opposite.

Maybe my worldview is too simplistic, but if there were impeachable crimes committed then impeachment should follow.  Although, as an Independent I’m not looking at this from the standpoint of what’s best for a Democrat or Republican.  IMO, if crimes were committed then what is best for the country should precede what is best for a political party that serves the country.  I see too much harm coming from allowing a potentially criminally guilty President to continue to direct the affairs of the nation, no matter the optics that happen to any of the political party’s.  I agree with Limey, following suit with impeachment hearings would allow truth to be aired and that is important.

180

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

« on: November 27, 2018, 10:34:51 am »

He also thinks the federal coffers are filling up with billions of dollars from China because of the tariffs.

How can anyone be this stupid?

Simple side effect of too much covfefe. 

181

Talk Zone / Re: Some seriously bad shit going down in Seattle

« on: November 15, 2018, 01:07:01 pm »

My catching career consisted of this...

I come in as a freshman in high school ball. A speedy center fielder. Coach being a jokester called my name to warm up one of our Sr starters in the bullpen.  Yes sir, and I grab my glove. Well the senior could hit the low 90's, which was much faster than what I was used to as a freshman.  The result was fear.  Thankfully no blood.  Did I mention I wasn't wearing a cup?

Put me in coach, put please let it be center field

182

Talk Zone / Re: Frito Pie

« on: October 12, 2018, 12:41:50 pm »

Of course Frito pie chili often came from a can. How long since you've had a big hot steamin' bowl of chili from a can? Well that's too long.

My Jr year of High School several friends and I started camping out on Lake Sam Rayburn on weekends.  By camping I mean sleeping in the bed of a pickup and eating what we caught.  Wolf brand chili (w beans!) was our backup option to starving sometimes.  For a hungry teenager that stuff was awesome!!!

183

Talk Zone / Re: ALCS

« on: October 12, 2018, 12:32:44 pm »

Yes! Last year my son, my dad and I watched the games together.  This year my teenage daughter has taken interest so I'll be triply blessed watching these games with them!!!

184

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

« on: October 08, 2018, 11:09:19 am »

And...the right wing and left wing belong to the same bird.

MLK stated that if we can't learn to live together as brothers then we will perish together as fools.

185

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

« on: October 08, 2018, 11:01:33 am »

I really only read 2 forums online with any regularity.  This forum is skewed liberal and demonizes the conservatives.

The other forum is conservative and demonizes liberals. 

I read both "echo chambers" in that sometimes I get some good commentary about a political position.  I skip over the name calling, characterizations, etc.

For me this quote sums up a root of the issue (It's not as simplistic as the quote but it's a start)
"The problem with Washington is that we've become Democrats and Republicans instead of Americans. Everything is aimed at enhancing political position instead of strengthening America."

186

Beer and Queso / Re: Youth baseball bat

« on: October 01, 2018, 09:43:06 am »

Is it Little League, Pony or another? Little League needs to be an approved USABaseball bat. I'm not sure about the others.

Last year was the 1st year using the new USA bats.  1st off the new standard bats are more expensive on whole. Secondly the ball reacts off the bats much slower.  It is noticeable. Not a negative, but I also noticed the usual aluminum bat ping sounds more like a wood bat crack on most bats now.

Last year, the first bat we tried was an Easton Hyperlite.  If the ball was not hit squarely in the sweet spot it would ring his hands. I tried the bat myself and it wasn't just him. Actually during the season several of the kids on his team had bats that rang their hands.  Talking to other coaches and reading online, it's a common problem with the new standard. Before buying a bat read the reviews. (JustBats...etc...)

I bought him DeMarini Voodoo and it was much better.  Kid on his team had a Louisville Slugger Solo that was a really good bat, just too heavy for my son. 

Good luck and hope y'all have a great season.

187

Talk Zone / Re: Postseason roster questions

« on: September 27, 2018, 04:07:16 pm »

For what it's worth, that's the line-up I'd go with.

I'm ready to see what Hinch decides on though!

188

Talk Zone / Re: Road to the Postseason 2018

« on: September 25, 2018, 10:31:04 am »

Gotcha, that makes more gooder sense now. Thanks

189

Talk Zone / Re: Road to the Postseason 2018

« on: September 25, 2018, 10:10:19 am »

Home field for the one game playoff goes to the team with a better head to head record, which between the A's and the Astros would be the Astros.  Winner goes to the DS against the Indians, loser to the WC against the Yankees.

I may have misunderstood you, but the one game playoff is between the (2) "Wildcard" teams. Winner of this game plays Boston (as they have the #1 seed w/ best record), loser is eliminated.  The other (2) division winners would play the DS. Cleveland has clinched the Central Division and would play the West Division winner.

190

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

« on: September 12, 2018, 02:38:48 pm »

Wow..I looked up the district your represented in Limey...2nd District is Ted Poe's right?.

It's impossible for me to look at the 2nd district map and not agree it's gerrymandered to ridiculous proportions.

191

Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains 2018

« on: August 22, 2018, 11:20:20 am »

you can swap Correa and bregman for each other.

I bet they've thought about this. Seems to me 3rd would be much less demanding on Correa's back and Bregman appears he could handle SS well. I wonder if CC's ego would make it inconceivable though. Plus it would hurt his value on the FA market when that comes.

I'm curious of others take on 3rd being less demanding on the back. 

If it is less demanding, from articles written about him, he seems very down to earth and a good clubhouse guy.

192

Beer and Queso / Re: Infinity War (Spoilers)

« on: August 16, 2018, 12:39:52 pm »

I think it'll continue. GotG is way to profitable for Disney, Marvel and the actors. Bautista has stated he does not want to return if Gunn isn't brought back. The others have stood in support to bringing him back, but I haven't seen a sit it out stance from them.

193

Talk Zone / Re: Morton

« on: July 27, 2018, 07:54:35 pm »

Eat a fried spleen sandwhich. That should fix everything right? Sacrifices must be made. Thanks!

194

Talk Zone / Re: Morton

« on: July 26, 2018, 01:32:22 pm »

Only team in all of MLB that can say that.  Every 5 days, just like clockwork.

Quick! Delete comment before it's seen by...

195

Talk Zone / Re: All-Star voting

« on: July 03, 2018, 12:39:52 pm »

I hit my limit last week. 

Do you get emails from MLB? Every time I voted I received an email stating that I had voted X amount of times.

196

Talk Zone / Re: Hubris

« on: April 05, 2018, 08:07:35 am »

I took it as Dallas Keuchel's beard. 

I think the beard rocks! Although, If I didn't have to be clean shaven for work, I'd grow out a wookie beard myself!

197

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

« on: December 23, 2017, 03:39:05 pm »

I think the bottom line is that middle class tax cuts are temporary, corporate tax cuts are permanent, so it's the fact that middle class taxes go up in a few years is what's paying for the corporate tax cut.  Otherwise, this could not be passed using the reconciliation process.

At the same time, it's creating an extra $5,000 of debt for every man, woman and child in the country.  Who is going to pay that bill when it comes due?

That's clearly stated and helps me understand, thanks!

198

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

« on: December 23, 2017, 10:40:28 am »

I’m so happy that you were one of the lucky peasants that received one of the gold coins tossed out of the wagon on its way to the castle. Congrats....

So are the amounts from this tax bill not benefiting the middle class or not? It did for my family. I passed the calculator to a few friends...they got tossed gold coins too. 

I've only seen myself and one other poster share what the calculators findings are in this thread.  Both are a benefit in savings...at least in the short term.  I'll have to read a bit more on the effects in the years to come.

199

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

« on: December 23, 2017, 10:26:42 am »

Generally there are winners in every tax brackets, and losers in every tax bracket.  It seems to largely depend on whether you're in a high local tax state.  The largest winners are in high tax brackets--1% means more to someone making $40,000,000 than to someone making $4,000.  For me there are three real questions.  Why, when the economy is doing relatively well, do we need to increase the deficit by $1.5 billion?  How do the corporate tax cuts and the change in taxation of offshore income incentivize US corporations to invest in US jobs?  Why were some special interest advantages like real estate development added?

I can probably think of more.

I agree, there is no need to increase the deficit.

200

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

« on: December 23, 2017, 10:17:30 am »

I am happy for you.  But, unless your income is from carried interest or a pass-through, all your tax cuts will erode over time and expire completely in 2025.

I'm a draftsman in petrochemical engineering.  Middle class...dad retired as a pipefitter.  I'm sure I'll inherit a welding machine though!

201

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

« on: December 21, 2017, 03:21:19 pm »

I follow politics, but haven't followed this tax bill other than headlines.

By the calculator I get to save around $4000.  That's just my individual case, but it's not the doom and gloom I've been hearing from the media.

202

Talk Zone / Re: Thank You

« on: November 02, 2017, 07:13:20 am »

+1000

I remember watching the 1986 NLCS against the Mets with my dad as a kid..  Been a lot of up's and down's since. 

Now, it was great to be able to watch these games with my kids!!! 

Thank you all at OWA for your contributions.  I grew up playing the game, but seem to always learn something new from this place.

203

Talk Zone / Re: Springer's At-Bats

« on: October 25, 2017, 01:17:14 pm »

I like Springer batting leadoff when he's hitting...I know duh.

What about Yuli batting leadoff?  I like that he's selective and patient.  He'll  work a count for his pitch.  Would be nice having him on base for Bregman, Altuve, Correa.

With that I hope Springer get's a leadoff hit in his next at bat. Leadoff or wherever... That'll end this thread quick!

204

Talk Zone / Re: Race for the Race for the Lid

« on: September 28, 2017, 01:41:15 pm »

Come on, there's another one that is obvious that you haven't shared yet.

That time of month?

205

Talk Zone / Re: I miss the Clarks

« on: September 30, 2011, 08:03:56 am »

And for the apparently numerous lurkers who are reading while Lurch stalks them... fucking post, people. It's not so bad. Saf used a smiley – A FUCKING SMILEY – and was neither beaten nor verbally savaged and lit ablaze. As far as we know. Mark may have, I'm not sure. Just get in there and see what happens.

I can only speak for myself not any other lurkers, but I frequent this site for several reasons.

I originally found this site searching for Astros minor league information.  That was right before OWA got kicked off.   I found just what I was looking for with some great minor league season reviews.  From there I read some of coaches From the Dugout.  Was some good stuff too.

Not long after, OWA was launched.   Still, I didn’t jump right in to posting.  After awhile I started posting with a little frequency…but I really came for the content. 

Not long after this my job duties changed and I found I had very little time to post, much less search the internet to follow the Astros happenings.  I still come here to follow things such as the Crane saga.  Y’all keep me informed, while still remaining productive at work.  Yea for you! 

When I get home, I have two young kids that want to spend time with me.  They still think dad is cool, smart…etc.  My oldest just started softball and most evenings after work she wants to throw the ball.  I love it!

So yes I do owe some of y’all thanks.

I don’t come here for the clark smashing but my coonass curiosity can’t stop looking at the trainwreck.

206

Talk Zone / Re: I miss the Clarks

« on: September 29, 2011, 08:06:43 pm »

(Baiting)I am a 6 season disappointing rookie...I still think Brazilla IS a top 10% stinkin genius, New Orleans should abandon it's Port and move North, you foo for not trust VOR, I will fight the man that farts on any best fans in baseball gear, Bagwell should have just thrown left handed, I loved the Chron Tombstone front page, I heard that Foghorn lost Alkies nut, Skyline chilli rulz! I don't post more often because I don't trust my stuff.(Baiting)

I'll come back in another 5 years for my delousing.

In all seriousness I miss Pravata and the Daily Beagle...