1
Talk Zone / Re: We're launching a new forum
« on: November 27, 2019, 06:23:24 pm »I think this change will run me off.
Not allowed. Sorry.
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Not allowed. Sorry.
2
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 21, 2019, 06:25:28 pm »What about this made you think it would be anything else?
(In theory any 2017 violations would be subject to rules in place at that time).
Nothing at all. BTW, my snark was directed at the hypocritical bombasity of all of this, not at you.
3
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 21, 2019, 04:42:49 pm »I think any credible investigation would have to include a look at previous/subsequent seasons.
So, just to be clear, this is an investigation into the Astros. Any and all Astros employed now or previously for anything over the last three years and, maybe more. Full stop. Not an investigation into sign stealing by electronic means based on the rules as they existed at the time. Ok, gotcha.
4
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 20, 2019, 11:16:02 am »I want MMP to sound like a revival of Stomp during the playoffs next year.
Excellent. Perfect visual.
5
Beer and Queso / Re: That's not true...that's impossible!
« on: November 18, 2019, 02:41:23 pm »
Anyone seen The Mandalorian yet? The reviews are consistently good enough that I am considering buying a Disney+ subscription although I don't know if I should do that and start watching now weekly or just binge at the end of the season.
6
Talk Zone / Re: The Void (transacations)
« on: November 05, 2019, 09:17:23 pm »Sanchez may not pitch again until 2021.
Yes. His surgery was on sept 16th and the full recovery timeline is 12-14 months. The optimistic timeframe puts him back in play the last week of the season. Which would make no sense. I can’t imagine how tendering him an offer is logical unless they ink home to a multi-year deal.
That said, the Astros saw something in him of some immediate or future value that may have been more than a rental. Maybe multi-year makes sense.
7
Talk Zone / Re: The Void (transacations)
« on: November 05, 2019, 04:00:51 pm »Re-sign both catchers. That is the best catching situation we have ever had.
Agree. I'm guessing Maldonado accepts the Astros offer THIS time...
I'm curious about the Miley replacement. Who will they reclaim this time?
8
Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5
« on: November 01, 2019, 12:48:19 pm »From the chron article:
Not saying it an excuse or wasn't orchestrated but it sort of explains why he had the cap on there and then.
You don't wear a "good luck charm" after the event in which you need the good luck is over. BS.
For example, eating frito pie right now will do nothing for Game 7 two days ago.
9
Talk Zone / Re: Team of the Decade?
« on: November 01, 2019, 09:32:56 am »Ben Lindberg of The Ringer makes the argument that it is the Astros.
It has to be the SF Giants. 3 WS wins.
10
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:26:59 pm »
"Springer pays no attention to data"? WTH???
Just because he says that....
Just because he says that....
11
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:13:29 pm »
Putting on a clinic.
12
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:13:09 pm »And again.
Sent from my GM1915 using Tapatalk
What a fielding stud.
13
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:36:43 pm »14
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:32:07 pm »
Buck is nauseating. "I've never seen a team so gritty..." WTH?
15
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:29:28 pm »
Greinke is a beast coming off the mound.
16
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:23:51 pm »
"21 year old Soto coming up." Pretty sure someone has called BINGO! already.
17
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:22:15 pm »
Great eye by Brantley.
18
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:14:44 pm »Crawford boxes
Actually just by the fowl pole
Ah, thanks.
hope they catch a Yuli HR.
19
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:11:58 pm »
Beautiful deuce, Zach.
20
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:09:56 pm »Settled in our seats in section 105.
Let's win this thing.
What are y'all wearing? Isn't 105 basically behind home plate?
21
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:08:21 pm »Not gonna watch. I didn't watch game 3 so I can't watch this one. Yes, I'm that crazy.
Thank you for your service.
22
Talk Zone / Re: Game 7
« on: October 30, 2019, 05:58:55 pm »They’re wearing the orange jerseys tonight, according to McTaggart on Twitter.
This is a good thing.
23
Talk Zone / Re: Game 7
« on: October 30, 2019, 11:32:16 am »Of all the things I'm concerned about for tonight, the players' motivation doesn't even make the list.
Agree. I am fairly certain that Cole will run in and rip the ball from Hinch's hand if Greinke shows any sign of weakness as the game progresses.
24
Talk Zone / Re: Tipping pitches
« on: October 30, 2019, 10:22:58 am »Verducci on how Strasburg was tipping his pitches in the first two innings last night, but the Nationals caught and fixed it:
“Stephen, you’re doing it again.”
Menhart didn’t have to show video to Strasburg. The pitcher knew instantly what he was doing to telegraph his pitches. The pitching coach and his pitcher came up with a fix. Strasburg would reach into his glove for his grip, then briefly start flapping his glove at the waist before raising his hands at the set position.
The game flipped right there.
“He told me it was—what is the right word here—just so re-assuring to him,” Menhart said. “It gave him such relief and confidence. He said, ‘I got takes on balls they were hitting before, and they were swinging and missing at balls they were spitting on in the first inning.’ It freed him up.”
Strasburg gave up two runs in the first inning and none thereafter. The Astros went 3-for-22 after Strasburg stopped tipping his pitches. They didn’t know what hit them.
Interesting perspective on the information gamesmanship. Clearly, the Astros are talented hitters. But, if they get skunked when their information is cut off and then fail at the classic "see the ball, hit the ball", it appears that might be a weakness on the team construct or players ability to adapt to any circumstance that presents itself.
25
Beer and Queso / Re: The Toadies
« on: October 30, 2019, 09:04:42 am »Is Higher Ground still standing?
@hostros7, My church was having some work done so we met at Higher Ground this last Sunday. Here's a pic:
https://www.icloud.com/photos/#0_qQG8bqHoM1jHP6z2zqjzCOQ
26
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 09:51:38 pm »
Turner is a whiny little beotch.
27
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 09:49:07 pm »
If Turner is in the line, Yuli’s glove is not knocked off.
28
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 09:46:55 pm »I’m guessing if he hadn’t hit Yuli’s glove it wouldn’t have been called.
This.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 09:35:25 pm »
Looks like Brad is going back out.
30
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 09:31:03 pm »
Nice wheels, Bregs.
31
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:53:41 pm »
What is up with JV once he gets to two strikes?
32
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:47:44 pm »I told myself I wouldn’t get nervous.
This game is going to kill me.
How exactly do u do that?
Agree.
33
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:34:33 pm »That was fucking terrifying.
Bucks pseudo crying yard unnecessarily added to the drama.
34
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:33:00 pm »
Nice snag, Uncle Mike. One pitch too.
35
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:24:50 pm »
Cabrera was all Over that third pitch.
36
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:22:36 pm »
JV looks exasperated
37
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:09:57 pm »Innings like that are gonna give me the runs
TMI. But, agree.
38
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:08:40 pm »
Soto is a funny guy. “Alright, alright, I see you”.
Nice recovery on his part to chill on the bull shuffle when he started it. JV would dot him if he kept it up.
Rendon is a very, very good hitter.
Nice recovery on his part to chill on the bull shuffle when he started it. JV would dot him if he kept it up.
Rendon is a very, very good hitter.
39
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 07:39:42 pm »Did you make it to a game?
No, I was on travel. What are the chances?
40
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 06:54:52 pm »
I’m so nervous and excited I can’t sit still. I’m pacing around like a lunatic jabbering to myself with not a single soul in the house. I better close the blinds.
41
Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5
« on: October 28, 2019, 11:49:44 am »While I am on the fucking baseball media, some SI writer named Dan Garland has a storyline today about Game 5: “Bad umpiring is the story of Game 5.” The story itself was all one-sided. He singles out two pitches-one to Brantley called a ball and the third strike to Robles on Cole’s final pitch. Not a word about bad for both sides. Not a word about Cole’s getting squeezed. Most egregious, not a word about the ball four call to Zimmerman immediately preceding the Robles AB, which was so bad
There's that hack from SI and then there's this comment from someone that was actually there, experiencing the game firsthand:
“Lance did not lose us the game tonight; Gerrit Cole beat us,” Ryan Zimmerman said. “I think that’s the best way to put it. I’ve known Lance for a long time. He’s a really good guy and a good umpire. If you want to talk about the strike zone and stuff, you can go ask him. But I don’t think anyone should blame Lance for what happened tonight. Gerrit beat us. He had great stuff. He pitched his butt off. He’s one of the best pitchers on the planet.”
42
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 03:51:26 pm »Holy shit! Max Scherzer cannot pitch today! Ross to start.
Neck spasms.
This makes me nervous. This lineup does much better when they’ve seen somebody a bit and had time to study them.
43
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 01:59:58 pm »Das - any view on whether Sunday's game is at risk from rain? Was thinking about heading down for it.
It's going to rain for sure but the main question is when it shuts off. Right now, the trailing cold front looks to push thru between 4pm and 8pm Sunday so, after a daylong rain, it should be shutting off right around game time. The evening model runs today should be able to narrow that shutoff time down to a two hour window.
So, if driving down from N?YC, plan on a rainy drive. You know what I95 through the corridor is like during the rain so plan accordingly. That said, they should get the game in. There may be a delay or two since sometimes there is a trailing shower or two behind the front in this setup but they should not be show stoppers. Bring an umbrella and a towel to wipe down the seats of course...
44
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: October 25, 2019, 12:19:35 pm »Ordinarily I'd say Reddick is too valuable to not have out there in RF, but you're in a world of shit right now scoring runs, and you need every RBI you can possibly get. I put Alvarez in LF and Brantley in RF. But I'm desperate.
I have a question for you: If, last week, you were told that the Astros would score 4 and then 3 runs with Scherzer and Strasberg on the mound with Cole then Verlander opposing, would you have thought the Astros would be down 0-2?
The reason I ask is: with those two on the mound, I'm not sure more than 3 or 4 runs is a reasonable expectation and Sanchez likely will not be that different. So, if you are expecting a low scoring affair, do you architect for the one big hit or for the better defense? I'm flip flopping back and forth every 15 minutes. I just don't know.
45
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 25, 2019, 12:10:56 pm »Absolutely, perpetual outrage is how society rolls. Having the interlopers enter the center of the governing universe simply compounds the invective. The Athletic has an article up wanting the architects of the initial team response to be fired also
Which is shocking since the Athletic is a well-reasoned outlet. Not every bone-headed, wrong thing done in the workplace demands that someone get fired. Sometimes, people actually learn from their mistakes and become better employees because of it. The Astros have to balance the court of public opinion mob against what they will communicate to the larger Astros workforce about a hostile, inflexible workplace where mistakes are met with harsh consequences. Which is particularly tough since they are in the entertainment business with only one degree of separation between their product and their consumer.
46
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: October 25, 2019, 12:03:41 pm »Curious what the prevailing opinion here is regarding Alvarez now that his bat is showing some life. Are we starting him in left tonight or is he a pinch hitter only?
With Greinke's flyball rate of 42% against righties (Nats will likely have 8 righties in the lineup tonight), I don't see how they stick Alvarez in the OF over Reddick. His flyball rate against lefties is almost half that. Too bad for Alvarez.
Which way they go depends on what Hinch thinks the biggest need is for Game 3. Nats have matched or beat the Astros in just about every aspect of the game so far so I am just not sure.
47
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 24, 2019, 07:54:06 am »
A couple of observations: The Astros have certainly run into a buzzsaw regarding the Nats. The Nats are playing very well and every single thing is falling right into place for them. It will be interesting to see how the Astros regroup and respond. Expecting the Nats to come back to earth is probably not a reasonable expectation. One other thing; the radio and water cooler conversations here in DC are insufferable if you are an Astros fan. Any attempt to put the last couple of games behind you and focus on the next game is exceedingly hard. If I can make it over the next couple of days without punching someone in the nose, I will consider that a moral, spiritual and emotional victory.
48
Talk Zone / Re: Fuck the Nationals!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
« on: October 23, 2019, 11:08:57 am »I haven't been around in a while, and I probably won't be back in even longer, but ... for some reason I felt compelled to check in this afternoon.
It must have been because of this. This is just awesome, it even tops your long ago and I always thought insurmountable rant about the fucking Cubs fans that I cannot link to right now because the front page/hall of fame is down for repairs or something. But anyway, Trum, I tip my hat to you. This is fucking great.
http://www.spikesnstars.com/forums/index.php?topic=108008.msg256262#msg256262
49
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series Game 1; October 22, 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 09:58:08 pm »
Did they really do those stupid sparkle Vegas lights on the HR by Springer? Goodness.
50
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series Game 1; October 22, 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 09:03:01 pm »
Omg, Turner hammered that foul.
51
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series Game 1; October 22, 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 08:53:07 pm »last inning for MadMax?
The Astros are making him work. Great plate appearances.
52
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series Game 1; October 22, 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 08:41:09 pm »
AJ with the smirk after Maldonados bunt attempts.
53
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series Game 1; October 22, 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 08:31:07 pm »
Nats are taking some good swings against Cole.
54
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series Game 1; October 22, 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 08:25:46 pm »Yuli has Max's number tonight...
And Max has Correa's number tonight.
55
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series Game 1; October 22, 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 08:21:10 pm »
Nice focus on Gurriel pulling in his hands
56
Talk Zone / Re: Tipping pitches
« on: October 21, 2019, 08:17:21 am »Pitching Ninja on Josh James
Love the rapt attention James is paying to Strom as well as the fatherly oat on the knee at the end. Everything about that is great.
57
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 6, October 19, 2019
« on: October 19, 2019, 10:53:06 pm »
Attaboy Osuna. Nice change.
58
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 6, October 19, 2019
« on: October 19, 2019, 10:50:44 pm »
Nope.
59
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 6, October 19, 2019
« on: October 19, 2019, 10:26:38 pm »
Did you see that double play? Wow!
60
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 5, October 18, 2019
« on: October 18, 2019, 07:48:15 pm »
I’m pretty sure Brantley said “the ball has to be over the plate”
61
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 5, October 18, 2019
« on: October 18, 2019, 07:38:04 pm »Seriously?
Wut?
(You have the power to fix that transgression. Don’t let me down. )
62
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 5, October 18, 2019
« on: October 18, 2019, 07:29:48 pm »
0-2, 0-2, over and over again.
63
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 5, October 18, 2019
« on: October 18, 2019, 06:40:02 pm »
Slider is cement mixer flat and his FB is running all over the place. Curve is the only thing working so far.
64
Talk Zone / Re: Greinke
« on: October 18, 2019, 01:46:45 pm »That's brilliant das. Do you have people in your life on the spectrum?
Yes, a fair number. As well as some with social anxiety with co-morbid depression and a fair number of other neurodivergences. Some of my kids, some of their biological family members, things like that. Plus, my wife is a psychologist and practicing therapist at a Center for Anxiety Care here in the northeast so I hear all the stories and latest research trends...
Edited to add: I offhandedly mentioned that the Astros picked up a neurodivergent pitcher at the trade deadline at the dinner table with my family and it generated 2 hours of really interesting and fun conversation with the family. The could care less about baseball but all loved that the Astros were inclusive enough to recognized the value he would provide and not fearful or discriminatory about his behaviors. They all pulled out their phones (usually not allowed at the dinner table) and started reading off quotes and comments about Greinke that are publicly available.
65
Talk Zone / Re: Tipping pitches
« on: October 18, 2019, 11:20:05 am »That is what I thought after I read the article. There will be people whistling constantly the next time the Yanks come to Houston.
Excellent. Well done.
66
Talk Zone / Re: Greinke
« on: October 18, 2019, 11:18:11 am »I don't know if it's intentional (actually it might be) but Zach's simplistic answers usually demonstrate the idiocy of the question being asked. What do think about being up 3-1? What do you think? We're on the road in a hostile environment, who wouldn't want to be 3-1 given the chance.
It's like the reporters have never encountered or considered how to interview a neurodivergent person. Asking two simple questions would typically give them the responses they crave so much:
1) Is there anything you'd like to tell me about the game today? Risk there is a simple answer of "no" may be the outcome. But, just as easily, they'd get a stream of consciousness response with tons of nuggets. Or,
2) What is interesting to you lately? It's a great question to get someone on the spectrum or who suffers with any number of anxiety disorders to information dump in areas that are interesting to them. A great way get a peek into their thoughts and thought processes. The risk there is he may info dump on Starbucks, or hitting or peanut butter cups or butterflies or Princess Bride or any of the things Greinke is known to be interested in but there is also usually really interesting things to write about in there too.
The longterm upside is interest-based trust is developed over time, which promotes more openness and transparency.
67
Talk Zone / Re: Greinke
« on: October 18, 2019, 05:28:00 am »
Favorite Greinke quote so far is from last night:
Reporter: “Zach, what do you think about being up 3-1 early?”
Greinke: “It’s better than not being up 3-1”
Reporter: “Zach, what do you think about being up 3-1 early?”
Greinke: “It’s better than not being up 3-1”
68
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 11:10:17 pm »Ha! Sanchez.
Sent from my GM1915 using Tapatalk
Horrible D tonight.
69
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 11:09:28 pm »Who? Peacock? Rondon? Abreu?
Maybe if Bregman parks one here.
Rondon. Gut feeling. No logic there.
70
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 11:07:46 pm »
Smoltz saying Bergman’s versatility during the season should count in MVP voting.
71
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 11:05:38 pm »
Bring in someone other than Osuna for the 9th?
72
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 11:01:41 pm »
Ugly D. The NY papers are going to pillory them tomorrow.
73
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 10:53:37 pm »What the fuck ump!!!
Sent from my GM1915 using Tapatalk
Horrible
74
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 10:17:12 pm »
Beautiful inning by Harris.
75
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 10:14:54 pm »Chirinos needs to let a high FB get by, if you know what I mean.
+1
76
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 10:13:58 pm »
Does Torres first pitch swing every single time?
77
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:56:47 pm »
Nice recovery by James.
78
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:48:55 pm »
Those Vegas lights on a HR are, um, tacky.
79
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:46:02 pm »Come on Josh. You have a five run lead.
Three strikes and a ball in that AB.
80
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:41:27 pm »
What is the cupping ear thing Correa does all about?
81
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:38:15 pm »
This Davis announcer is horrible. All Yanks, all the time.
82
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:30:16 pm »I preferred the slo-mo of it careening of CindyLou Who’s knee.
Just a flesh wound.
83
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:27:59 pm »
That was cool, the Slo-mo of the ball off the end of Bregman‘s bat.
84
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:22:53 pm »
Presley is a stud.
85
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:08:05 pm »AJ with the pretty quick hook
No kidding.
Why were the Yanks fans booing? Just cause?
86
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:54:41 pm »
Never seen Tanaka show emotion before. Nice catch by Judge.
87
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:53:21 pm »
Smoltz said, “Brantley’s got him right where he wants him” when Brantley got to 0-2. Pretty funny.
88
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:47:04 pm »They let Grenieke get into a rhythm... they're doomed...
They’ve shown Judge standing there in the dugout three times just nodding.
89
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:45:17 pm »
Greinke is such a joy to watch when he locks in.
90
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:19:32 pm »
What are they thinking shifting Gurriel to the left like that? It’s like they’ve never seen him flick hits to right before.
91
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:16:15 pm »
Again with the advancing runners. Excellent.
92
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:11:46 pm »
Can’t coach speed!!!!
93
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:10:23 pm »‘tuve be hackin’Jinx
94
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:09:58 pm »
Altuve be hackin’.
95
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:08:08 pm »
Wooooooo, Springer!!!
96
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:07:22 pm »
Sanchez is not a very good catcher on multiple levels, is he?
97
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:04:56 pm »
Is Reddick the third best hitter on the team right now?
98
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:01:36 pm »Just threw a 3-2 fastball by Judge to end the inning. Judge was not ready for that.
His face was priceless. “What just happened?”
99
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 08:00:33 pm »
Blue has a beautiful strike zone. Precise and consistent.
100
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 07:59:34 pm »
Greinke looks soooooo much better this inning.
101
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 07:52:39 pm »Gameday says the wind is 16 mph to RF. Have they given more info on the broadcast?
Yes. They said on the broadcast that the winds are swirling in the stadium and that the balls are actually dying to center and right field but heading out to left field rather briskly. They also mentioned that pitchers may struggle as there is a lot of wind in the 60’-6” pitching channel.
102
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 07:49:58 pm »
Cy Tanaka is back.
103
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 07:39:11 pm »
I don’t think I’m going to make it to the end of this game before I have a coronary.
104
Talk Zone / Re: Weather report for Game 4
« on: October 17, 2019, 04:17:00 pm »Is the wind in NYC 30+ mph?
It will be steady WNW winds of 16-20mph with gusts from 29-32mph, slowly decreasing as the game wears on.
Temps will be in the low 50's the whole time and it will be a bit raw with humidity around 70%. Tough evening to play a game. Tough evening to watch a game live in the stadium as well.
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Talk Zone / Re: ALCS - time to reset the lineup, right?
« on: October 15, 2019, 08:19:42 pm »Also on Stanton
Lindsey Adler
@lindseyadler
Giancarlo Stanton just said he feels "pretty similar" to 48 hours ago. Overall says his quad is "not the best," but he feels able to hit. Outfield is the hurdle.
On the broadcast this evening, they said Boone said Stanton would be on the IL if it was the regular season.
107
Talk Zone / Re: Weather report for Game 4
« on: October 15, 2019, 08:14:29 pm »That point forecast is predicting a prodigious amount of rain for tomorrow night.
So, it's now almost a certainty that Game 4 will be rained out.
Not only rain, but 20-30 MPH winds..
They’ll get 2.5” of soaking rain. Nice recovery to a dry fall so far.
The winds will continue for the game Thursday night: WNW winds of 14 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph during the game. HR’s to right will be something to watch. Greinke pitching will be interesting as well since he is a control/finesse pitcher now. At least he'll be pitching directly into the wind instead of dealing with an inconsistent side wind. It’ll likely take a few mph off of his arsenal though. I wonder if we’ll see a sub 60mph deuce.
109
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 3, October 15, 2019
« on: October 15, 2019, 03:46:24 pm »
That’s Cole’s version of a Oswalt inning.
110
Talk Zone / Re: Weather report for Game 4
« on: October 15, 2019, 07:48:10 am »Perfect in what sense?
Wind from the west north west is basically on a line from home plate to right field. And the right field fence is a ridiculous 314 feet away. Those swinging with an uppercut May get the ball in the jetstream and it may never come down. At that ridiculous stadium, routine flyball to right field often end up going out. Thursday evening, we may be in the ridiculous position of calling the infield fly rule for a pop up between first and second and then quickly shifting to the home run signal.
111
Talk Zone / Re: Weather report for Game 4
« on: October 15, 2019, 07:05:14 am »
Woo hoo! Looks like the coastal part of the storm will form of the Virginia keep instead of New Jersey which means a more prolonged rain event for the Bronx. It is increasingly likely that the game will be rained out tomorrow night. Thursday night will be breezy and cool we’re at game time temperature in the upper 40s to around 50°F.
A note of interest; the breezy and gusty winds from the departing storm Thursday evening will be perfectly oriented (from the west north west) for the ridiculous band box right field bleachers 314 feet down the line in ridiculous Yankee Stadium. Ridiculous.
A note of interest; the breezy and gusty winds from the departing storm Thursday evening will be perfectly oriented (from the west north west) for the ridiculous band box right field bleachers 314 feet down the line in ridiculous Yankee Stadium. Ridiculous.
112
They wouldn't even have that run if Soto were a half-way competent outfielder.
Both coards runs in the series (let that sink in a bit) have been on Nats OF’er miscues. St. Louis has earned zero runs in the series.
113
Talk Zone / Re: Sunday’s game
« on: October 14, 2019, 03:11:22 pm »
I am more than happy to have y’all pay $12.50 and $16.50 for various beers there at the park if it means we get to keep Cole.
114
Talk Zone / Re: Weather report for Game 4
« on: October 14, 2019, 12:03:56 pm »The built the most expensive baseball stadium of all time and forgot to put a roof on it. Man, Yankees are stupid people.
Something to keep an eye on, sometimes these coastal transfer storms complete the transition earlier than modeled. The bulk of the rain is slated from noon until 5pm (1.5” of moderate, soaking rain) then transitioning to more showery in nature. Because the stadium is new, they will have the excellent drainage that new stadiums have and an 8pm game would not be out of the question if the coastal transfer happens quickly and showers cut off early.
The meteorological histogram will be something to watch as we get closer to the event.
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?w0=t&w1=td&w2=hi&w3=sfcwind&w3u=1&w4=sky&pw5=pop&w6=rh&w7=rain&w8=thunder&AheadHour=42&Submit=Submit&FcstType=graphical&textField1=40.8309&textField2=-73.9269&site=all&unit=0&dd=&bw=
115
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 1...October 12, 2019
« on: October 12, 2019, 09:07:45 pm »
SCORE SOME RUNS!!!
116
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 5...October 10, 2019
« on: October 10, 2019, 09:37:16 pm »
Did y’all see the Astros wives on the infield? Very friendly. Hopefully Ms. Ce wants to continue that.
117
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 5...October 10, 2019
« on: October 10, 2019, 08:58:58 pm »
I love the shot of Hinch and Cole strategizing.
118
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 5...October 10, 2019
« on: October 10, 2019, 08:49:07 pm »
What a stud Gerrit Cole is.
119
The best pitcher in baseball?
Worst year of his last 10. FB velocity down. Slider had no bite over the last 2 months. Just a mind-boggling move by the New Tank Commander.
120
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 4...October 8, 2019
« on: October 08, 2019, 08:32:39 pm »When it's not your night...
Somebody pissed someone off. Are you kidding me? Had to be 100mph off the bat.
122
I'm off the hook.
Judging by the score, it was a group effort. Tomorrow, I will not be an idiot and endeavor to remember whether the Astros are playing the early game and or the late game and actually watch the game.
123
Lots of Astros representation here. Been high-fiving non-stop since I arrived.
So, you are to blame then.
124
Talk Zone / Re: Cole article in The Athletic
« on: October 07, 2019, 10:22:00 am »Big front page spread on the Astros’ rotation on the New York Times Sports Monday.
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/06/sports/baseball/astros-rays-nlds.html
125
Talk Zone / Re: The bullpen
« on: October 06, 2019, 02:48:55 pm »
I'm not worried. The Pressley/Harris/Osuna triumvirate is not likely to carry an 8-ish ERA through the post season. More than likely, they will regress to their combined ~2.x-ish ERA that they showed in their 100+ appearances during the year, with a slight plus-up do to the quality of the post season competition.
In the same way, I would expect a 4-ish ERA from the rest of the pen.
Both of these are perfectly acceptable given the length of the starters and the offensive output that will likely be realized when is all said and done.
In the same way, I would expect a 4-ish ERA from the rest of the pen.
Both of these are perfectly acceptable given the length of the starters and the offensive output that will likely be realized when is all said and done.
127
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 1...Octobrr 4, 2019
« on: October 04, 2019, 03:09:47 pm »
Correa is not ready for prime time. Looks overmatched at the plate. Hope these AB’s are his quick rehab assignment.
128
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 1...Octobrr 4, 2019
« on: October 04, 2019, 03:06:22 pm »
Good fundamental baserunning by the Astros, btw.
129
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 1...Octobrr 4, 2019
« on: October 04, 2019, 03:04:57 pm »
Or, Gurriel could do that.
130
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 1...Octobrr 4, 2019
« on: October 04, 2019, 03:01:44 pm »
Pham is struggling in Lf. Stretching and flexing a ton after hitting the wall and not chasing the Bergman double off the wall. If Gurriel pulls anything over there, it’ll score 2.
131
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 1...Octobrr 4, 2019
« on: October 04, 2019, 01:52:12 pm »
Rays batters are already showing frustration at V and shaking their heads at the D.
132
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 1...Octobrr 4, 2019
« on: October 04, 2019, 01:51:19 pm »Robbie squared that one up, just right at Pham.
He had the exact right approach. Good AB.
133
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 1...Octobrr 4, 2019
« on: October 04, 2019, 01:24:56 pm »
And, his Deuce and slider look beautiful today.
134
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 1...Octobrr 4, 2019
« on: October 04, 2019, 01:23:41 pm »
V is overthrowing a bit. He seems AMPED.
135
Neither is Miley and he's coming out of the pen. Anyone know if he's done that before?
That was kind of my point. Starter/reliever mindset and pitching style is just so different. Even with Peacock and Devo struggling a bit, they know the plan. Miley, not so much. Maybe he'll be a pleasant surprise.
I am wondering if the plan is to start Miley in Game 4 then flip to Urquidy if Miley starts to implode again. And just hope that James, Rondon and Smith can fill the gaps in any pre-7th inning relief work that is necessary.
136
Miley and Urquidy in. Devo, Peacock and Abreu out.
https://twitter.com/JuliaMorales/status/1180120464951144455
Devo AND Peacock out surprises me. That's some serious reliever experience missing from the team.
137
Talk Zone / Re: Miley's Last Chance
« on: September 28, 2019, 05:04:42 pm »I don’t think it’s just trusting his stuff. These guys have been teeing off like they know what’s coming.
I know. He said he reviewed film and did not think he was tipping pitches. Sure seems like it though.
138
Talk Zone / Re: Miley's Last Chance
« on: September 27, 2019, 09:11:37 am »I wouldn't. I wouldn't have him in the postseason roster. But the Astro don't always listen to me.
Yesterday's outing was especially bothersome and maddening when it comes to the postseason roster decision. He pitched tentatively and go hit hard then buckled down the 2nd two innings but still looked mediocre with long counts and not really fooling anyone.
139
Talk Zone / Re: Stretch run
« on: September 27, 2019, 09:07:37 am »In non-contender action yesterday, a couple of interesting things.
First, bush league garbage between the Sawks and Arlington:
https://deadspin.com/red-sox-and-rangers-cast-aside-all-dignity-in-battle-ov-1838506027
What a miserable display of pedantry by both teams.
140
Game Zone 2019 / Astros @ Angels, September 26th 2019
« on: September 26, 2019, 09:07:45 pm »
Doors are closing on the plane in 5 minutes. Hoping to hear Miley’s first batter.
141
Talk Zone / Re: Stretch run
« on: September 26, 2019, 07:28:34 pm »Correa will not play for the rest of the regular season.
Heard where?
Edited to add: ah, I see it there on the main Astros site.
142
Talk Zone / Re: Race to the bottom
« on: September 26, 2019, 05:33:45 pm »One thing that has stood out to me this year is the number of former Astros minor league pitchers starting for other teams. People talk about the fact that few of the Astros pitchers are home grown. They can develop pitchers. Just look around the league. But they are GREAT at assessing pitchers. They have been able to flip future potential for current excellence.
It will be interesting to see if Elias learned that skill as he rebuilds the O's.
I'm watching the O's especially closely since they got Elias and Sig Mejdal. It will be a good control example to my theory that the innovation tendencies exhibited by the Astros is a culture thing and not a genius thing.
I'm thinking one of the overarching values of the Astros braintrust has to do with Crane letting them operate with wide latitude in their areas of expertise. Not so sure Angelos in Baltimore has it in him to let the smart people do smart things.
143
Talk Zone / Re: Miley's Last Chance
« on: September 26, 2019, 05:26:51 pm »I have a hard time imagining James not being in that group. Sometimes you need a power arm.
Agree here. Especially since he's looked good in his last 4 games (4.0 IP, 8K's, 3H, 2BB's 0ER) since the blowup inning against Oakland on the 11th.
144
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, September 25, 2019
« on: September 25, 2019, 10:10:37 pm »Greinke takes care of Seattle's order in order.
He looks good tonight. Ground ball machine.
145
Talk Zone / Re: Race to the bottom
« on: September 25, 2019, 05:14:56 pm »I don't know that the realize how in-depth Luhnow & Company's plan is. Those that left (Mike Fast) will have an idea, but it seems to me they think it is an easy fix. I don't think there was anything easy about the Astros' rebuild.
I think you have keyed in on an important point there, Leslie. Innovation that leads to a singular good outcome is often a byproduct of the creation of a truly exceptional team at a point in time. The classic “lightning in a bottle“ event. Sustained innovation, the kind that can withstand the shedding of top-notch talent and still produce exceptional outcomes is much more rare and is tied to a culture and mindset more so than individual or collective genius. We will know over the next couple of years which example the Astros are. Having been around both in my professional career, I tend to think it will be the latter.
146
Talk Zone / Re: Race to the bottom
« on: September 25, 2019, 03:50:03 pm »
I am most interested in the overall cat-n-mouse game being played here. So many teams are following the Astros high draft pick generating "model" that the value of the play is increasingly diluted. I wonder how many are also following the minors development part of the model as well. It will be fun to see what the next innovation is that they dream up to stay ahead of the pack.
147
Talk Zone / Re: Choose Wisely
« on: September 25, 2019, 03:42:34 pm »Yes. Correa will be asking for a ton of money (at the very least what Bregman got). And I can't imagine the team giving him anywhere near what he is asking for given his recurring back problems and other injuries.
Agree. Correa is at 294 (probably topping out at 296 or 297) games for the last three years out of a possible 486. I can't imagine them paying Correa Bregman's $11M per year let alone the $28M per year he's due in the last 2 years of his extension in '23 and '24. Harper/Machado $$ is just crazy talk.
When he is well, CC is one of the most exciting, MVP-caliber players around. The 60% of games he's played in the last 3 years don't warrant that kind of payout, especially since some percentage of those he's even playing subpar as he deals with, recovers from or gets his timing back after his myriad injuries.
Edited to add: I trust the Astros braintrust though. The same "fragile" label was on Brantley as well and look how that's turning out.
148
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners - 9/24/19
« on: September 25, 2019, 08:00:37 am »
I love that the Astros players gave him all kinds of signed merchandise as a sorry and that he was out there raking the field with a black eye the next day.
149
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners - 9/24/19
« on: September 24, 2019, 08:11:35 pm »On the other hand, some of can have a nice lunch with a few brewskies while we watch.
Pfftt. Show off.
I had to give up beer in January so I don’t even get to enjoy this evening game with a beer. I am still in deep mourning...
150
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners - 9/24/19
« on: September 24, 2019, 08:04:27 pm »
Oh, and, man, a 10:10pm start is a killer. Next three nights too. Bleh.
151
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners - 9/24/19
« on: September 24, 2019, 08:01:04 pm »Correa scratched with lower back tightness. Hinch not concerned. Hinch is a calmer man than I am.
https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/1176651193663143936
Good god. I lost 20 IQ points by reading the comments. What was I thinking. #mcrib was pretty funny though.
152
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 9/22 Angels v. Astros Spring Training in September
« on: September 22, 2019, 01:01:39 pm »Correa taking a breather.
Full strength sans Correa. Subject line is misleading.
153
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Angels @ Astros - 9/21/19
« on: September 21, 2019, 06:22:28 pm »
Miley
...he's at it again. He's got to be tipping his pitches. I find it hard to believe they are just sitting on his cutter.
154
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: September 20, 2019, 01:32:47 pm »Same, I eat a ton of salmon and yellowtail tuna. I make exceptions to my cold-water fish preference for Gulf flounder, redfish, dorado/mahi mahi/dolfin and red snapper.
I'll basically eat anything but farmed fish.
Because of taste? Ecological impact? Bioethics?
155
Talk Zone / Re: Imelda
« on: September 20, 2019, 08:00:04 am »I am flying to Munich out of IAH tomorrow. I need to be able to land in Houston about 3:30 tomorrow afternoon.
They’ve had hours and hours of draining and drying time. If it’s a problem this afternoon, it’s not a weather problem, it’s a facilities mismanagement problem.
156
Game Zone 2019 / Re: stRangers at Astros 9/17/2019
« on: September 17, 2019, 09:46:51 pm »Verlander don’t after 87 pitches. Surprised.
I think we saw this in ‘17 and ‘18. Primary starters throttling back to 85-90 pitches for their last 2-3 starts heading into the post season.
158
Talk Zone / Re: Imelda
« on: September 17, 2019, 04:52:39 pm »
And, just because it's pretty:
https://cdn.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/GOES16/ABI/SECTOR/sp/GEOCOLOR/20192602141_GOES16-ABI-sp-GEOCOLOR-2400x2400.jpg
https://cdn.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/GOES16/ABI/SECTOR/sp/GEOCOLOR/20192602141_GOES16-ABI-sp-GEOCOLOR-2400x2400.jpg
159
Talk Zone / Re: Imelda
« on: September 17, 2019, 04:32:09 pm »
Also, and, please be careful in the washes south of town this evening. This thing poses a real flash flooding risk.
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/storm_graphics/AT11/refresh/AL1119WPCQPF+gif/203424WPCQPF_sm.gif
Dodged a bullet here. It's moving slow but not as slow as Harvey. There was a surprisingly similar environment in place. If the storm formed 100mi south of its current location, it likely would have gone through a rapid intensification phase, similar to Harvey and would have also created a steering environment that would have made it even slower than it's current 6mph movement.
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/storm_graphics/AT11/refresh/AL1119WPCQPF+gif/203424WPCQPF_sm.gif
Dodged a bullet here. It's moving slow but not as slow as Harvey. There was a surprisingly similar environment in place. If the storm formed 100mi south of its current location, it likely would have gone through a rapid intensification phase, similar to Harvey and would have also created a steering environment that would have made it even slower than it's current 6mph movement.
160
Good thing there is a roof on MMPUS!
https://public.dm.files.1drv.com/y4mNMLXqPOELGJh8oc9OMxJlIZlGe7zmVPlAjCLaa0x9o5FOHD5On8gVE4JxZZFivf5HVDucwHvHziNjR_RN2-gBHqz5f0XEl5B2Llw2FqclEro63zEOm9I253UQ8QiXgqoNxZ-nWA3y5dB9vbkgvlG1-pjUKgAPhHaDhDcJTJAYMO99HmKhYjbjO8ox1PEGXKUzTtLZMCu4Fm5ABzIDghRPQ/20190917_211227000_iOS.mov
https://public.dm.files.1drv.com/y4mNMLXqPOELGJh8oc9OMxJlIZlGe7zmVPlAjCLaa0x9o5FOHD5On8gVE4JxZZFivf5HVDucwHvHziNjR_RN2-gBHqz5f0XEl5B2Llw2FqclEro63zEOm9I253UQ8QiXgqoNxZ-nWA3y5dB9vbkgvlG1-pjUKgAPhHaDhDcJTJAYMO99HmKhYjbjO8ox1PEGXKUzTtLZMCu4Fm5ABzIDghRPQ/20190917_211227000_iOS.mov
161
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Royals, 9/15/19
« on: September 15, 2019, 11:37:04 am »
Certainly an interesting lineup, especially with the off day tomorrow.
This is my most interesting Astros pitched game of the week.
162
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Royals- September 14, 2019
« on: September 15, 2019, 11:35:24 am »Just keep winning. No one is going to help us.
Abreu looks like he may skip AAA next year.
Agree. He’s got some serious stuff.
163
Game Zone 2019 / Re: A’s @ Astros, September 10, 2019
« on: September 10, 2019, 09:20:53 pm »Machete!
19-3
So, you’re sayin’ there’s a chance?
164
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: September 10, 2019, 06:44:04 pm »https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1171545491114516480?s=19
Isn’t this the same guy that tweeted he’d like to play in the ASG because he was feeling good coming back from injury?
In the brain trust, I trust. Not some over eager, injury prone kid.
165
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: September 10, 2019, 09:38:19 am »Tried to get a Popeye's spicy chicken sandwich from one of the local shops. The drive-thru line was insane so i parked and went in. Stood in line for 10 minutes before the person behind the counter announced that they had no more chicken sandwiches. If I'm working this hard then it better be one charming motherfucking chicken sandwich.
Ha.
https://twitter.com/roywoodjr/status/1164365052578676736?s=21
167
Game Zone 2019 / Re: As v. Astros 9/9/19
« on: September 09, 2019, 08:47:59 pm »
Superb snag by Straw at short to end the threat and erase the error.
168
Game Zone 2019 / Re: As v. Astros 9/9/19
« on: September 09, 2019, 08:46:26 pm »Ever ever?
Like in the history of the world?
Baseball continues to amaze.
Yes. In the history of the game.
169
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: September 05, 2019, 12:28:26 pm »Aaron Sanchez to have season ending shoulder surgery.
For a pec injury?
Darn.
170
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: September 04, 2019, 11:42:09 am »Springer’s fault for not knowing this. Not the field’s fault or the Brewers’.
Tal's Hill concurs.
171
Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy
« on: September 04, 2019, 10:56:06 am »My problem is with the over the top tributes. If you watched or listened to the coverage on the MLB Network and MLB Network Radio, Skaggs was a saint.
From your lofty internet perch, do you know that he wasn't? The people in his closest circles, those that actually know him, sure thought he was.
For the larger group, just because someone has opiates in their bloodstream, does not mean they are an addict. If, for example, someone with a barking shoulder is given a common pain killer by a trusted friend, it does not mean they are an addict. It just means they made a really stupid mistake.
Maybe Skaggs was an addict. Maybe he wasn't. Some on here are asserting, assuming or suggesting he was and that is not fair to him or his memory.
172
Talk Zone / Re: Interesting
« on: August 27, 2019, 01:17:35 pm »Unless he comes in and absolutely sets the world on fire.
He needs to use Yordans bat.
173
Talk Zone / Re: Cy Sneed
« on: August 26, 2019, 10:19:32 am »Being on the 40-man is good for the major league minimum salary as well, regardless of where you're playing.
After thinking about this a bit more, I thought if you were on the 40-man for the first year but were playing in MiLB, you got a salary of $41,400 and for year 2 and beyond, it was $82,700. And, they only got the pro-rated MLB minimum for the number of days they were in the bigs. Is that outdated info?
174
Talk Zone / Re: Cy Sneed
« on: August 25, 2019, 11:36:21 pm »
I was reading this article and thought a bit about Sneeds multiple trips up and down and what a hassle that must be:
https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/cy-sneed-optioned-to-triple-a-by-astros
Then I thought about the articles in the beginning of the thread where he is a substitute teacher in the off-season since the AAA salary is so low ($2,700 per month for 6 months). His prorated salary for his 30+ days of service time in the bigs is over $100K now. What a great boon for him.
These upcoming September callups sure must be financially important for the non bonus babies.
https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/cy-sneed-optioned-to-triple-a-by-astros
Then I thought about the articles in the beginning of the thread where he is a substitute teacher in the off-season since the AAA salary is so low ($2,700 per month for 6 months). His prorated salary for his 30+ days of service time in the bigs is over $100K now. What a great boon for him.
These upcoming September callups sure must be financially important for the non bonus babies.
175
Talk Zone / Re: Verlander addresses refusal to take ??? from Det reporter Anthony French
« on: August 22, 2019, 05:56:24 pm »
I love that it appears that the team took one for their player. Also, completely bush league for the paper to not return the repeated calls by the Astros front office leading up.
176
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros- August 21, 2019
« on: August 21, 2019, 07:46:02 pm »
Bogesevic is not bad on color. (On the TV broadcast(
177
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros- August 20, 2019
« on: August 21, 2019, 11:32:52 am »
BTW, this nearly made my head explode yesterday when Altuve said it:
“We’ve gotten stronger,” Altuve quipped when asked why the club was hitting so many home runs. “I see a lot of homers by Springer when I’m on deck and I love it. I think the fans love it, too. We need to keep hitting homers.”
No, my friend. You need to "not keep hitting homers". Please, please, please just focus on getting good pitches to hit and taking good swings. Geesh.
“We’ve gotten stronger,” Altuve quipped when asked why the club was hitting so many home runs. “I see a lot of homers by Springer when I’m on deck and I love it. I think the fans love it, too. We need to keep hitting homers.”
No, my friend. You need to "not keep hitting homers". Please, please, please just focus on getting good pitches to hit and taking good swings. Geesh.
178
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros- August 20, 2019
« on: August 21, 2019, 11:21:15 am »He's batting poorly with no homers since June. Wouldn't surprise me at all if there's a physical issue.
It's been a pretty precipitous falloff from late May. .333 average thru the first 46 games, .214 average in the ensuing 66 games. Only one multi-hit game since July 1st. 4 doubles, 1 three-bagger and no home runs in the same period. Severe power outage to go along with the super low OBP. In April and May, he was going opposite field all the time. Then he tried to pull everything and went into the tank. Now he appears to be just slapping at everything, trying to get a simple base hit. Just a dreadful, long summer so far.
179
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros- August 20, 2019
« on: August 20, 2019, 07:28:06 pm »
Nice AB by Yordan to come back and get the BB after being down 0-2.
180
Talk Zone / Re: How Many Astros in 2019 Will Hit 20 or More Homers? Winners get beer
« on: August 20, 2019, 03:53:45 pm »I actually say that occasionally. But I would never write it and not be able to deny it.
At work, my Chief of Staff is the consummate professional. Well educated, professional CV to die for, impeccably dressed and a polished and effective communicator. And she replies, in written form, “okie dokies” when I give her a directive. The juxtaposition is jarring. I’ve chosen to view it as endearing but it takes some work.
181
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 20, 2019, 07:56:52 am »Oh I disagree. Unseasoned fried chicken is awful.
That's a thing? Disgusting.
182
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 20, 2019, 07:56:14 am »Just a reminder for us all - This thread is primarily for Ex Astros - guys who played regular season/post season games for the Astros. For guys who were in the minors, there is a separate thread in the bus ride for Ex Bus Riders News 2019. With as closely as we have all followed the minors during the rebuilding years, we get them confused sometimes.
What about guys that were signed as NRI's and invited to spring training but did not make the team and retired? Asking for a friend...
(Really, I'm asking for me but I have a friend here at work that fits that same exact description)
183
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros 08/19/2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 10:12:57 pm »Two line drive outs.
Must not have been paying attention.
184
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros 08/19/2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 10:10:45 pm »
Mayfield has looked overmatched all nite.
185
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros 08/19/2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 10:08:32 pm »BIG strikeout from Harris.
Don't think I've ever seen him show emotion like that.
He did not have his best stuff. Cut fastball was consistently down and to the left.
186
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros 08/19/2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 10:07:30 pm »
Man, Harris toughed it thru that inning.
187
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros 08/19/2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 09:37:29 pm »
For all the stuff Rondon has, he sure perplexes me.
188
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 19, 2019, 02:29:58 pm »I cannot abide Popeye's. In fact, I find it particularly distasteful.
You know, I hear that sometimes. Not often but sometimes. I like all fried chicken, even that neutrino-fired stuff Banquet puts in a TV Dinner. But, there is just something about a 3-piece spicy with a side of red beans & rice and a side of mashed potatoes with that jalapeno gravy sludge that makes a bad day good or a good day great. No other place does that for me.
189
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 19, 2019, 07:50:44 am »And yet, Chick-fil-A drive-thru lines extend out onto highway access roads.
There is something wrong with this country.
No kidding. Every time I (infrequently) go there, I find myself asking my girls what all the fuss is about.
Popeyes, on the other hand, is as close to nirvana here in earth as you’ll come.
190
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 05:55:00 pm »
What a DP!
191
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 05:53:19 pm »
Osuna. Really?
192
Game Zone 2019 / Re: ASTROS @ ATHLETICS, AUGUST 16, 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 09:20:56 pm »
Verlander starts with 2 K’s in the bottom of the inning. The deuce looks very sharp.
193
Game Zone 2019 / Re: ASTROS @ ATHLETICS, AUGUST 16, 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 09:14:10 pm »
Altuve with another aggravating first pitch ground out to short leading to the double play, negating Springers leadoff infield single. Grrrr. Brantley flies out to left to end the inning.
194
Game Zone 2019 / Re: ASTROS @ ATHLETICS, AUGUST 16, 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 09:11:30 pm »
It’s confirmed: Santa Claus is an Astros fan. He’s sitting in the first row. Just behind home plate to the right.
195
Game Zone 2019 / Re: ASTROS @ ATHLETICS, AUGUST 16, 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 09:05:41 pm »
Verlander playing the role of stopper. A’s, a fastball hitting team, struggle when the FB exceeds 95mph. Should be interesting.
196
Game Zone 2019 / ASTROS @ ATHLETICS, AUGUST 16, 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 09:04:13 pm »
Let’s get this party started!
197
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 16, 2019, 01:16:29 pm »
I read the gamezone as a recap from last night during lunch so I'm hoping the BBG's will think that was sacrifice enough.
198
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Athletics, August 15, 2019
« on: August 15, 2019, 10:34:03 pm »That play at 1B wasn’t even close. How does a Major League umpire miss that?
Maybe thought Yuli’s foot was off the bag? I dunno. Defies the reality right in front of him.
199
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Athletics, August 15, 2019
« on: August 15, 2019, 10:07:20 pm »No kidding.
I thought that was a pop up off the bat.
Me too. I hate this new ball. I hate what it’s doing to the game. That was not a bad pitch by Sanchez. Down and on the outer third.
I wonder if Olsen was getting signs from the dude on second base.
200
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at White Sox 08/14/2019
« on: August 14, 2019, 04:25:52 pm »
I missed the Miley part of the game (stupid work). What was his deal?
202
Talk Zone / Re: 2020 schedle out
« on: August 14, 2019, 03:55:45 pm »That looks really cool. Which of the 2 areas would you prefer? Haven't been to DC in 20 years.
It depends what you are looking for. National Harbor is shiny and new with modern amenities such as an MGM Grand hotel and casino, a London-esque Ferris wheel, medium and high-end chain eateries, a big resort, outlets, etc... Old Town(e) is 350 years old, replete with centuries old brick buildings, brick sidewalks, cobblestone streets, all modernized into nice restaurants, boutique B&B's and historical restorations of the revolutionary and civil war periods. So, it's a personal preference thing and you can't go wrong either way.
203
Talk Zone / Re: 2020 schedle out
« on: August 14, 2019, 12:03:51 pm »DC was my first choice, I’m worried it will be a zoo in DC then though.
The ballpark is sufficiently far from the National Mall that it should be somewhat insulated. There are tons of hotel rooms around the ballpark too. They can fill up near the 4th once those near the National Mall fill up so book early. There are also great options in Old Town Alexandria and the National Harbor Waterfront that are serviced by water taxi directly to the stadium. A great and fun way to get to/from the game:
https://www.potomacriverboatco.com/water-taxi/diamond-teague/
Edited to add: Then there's Casa de das + Metro, which a couple of you crazies have availed yourselves of in the past....
204
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ White Sox, 8-13, Game 2
« on: August 13, 2019, 10:31:06 pm »
If the Yankees are paying attention, they are searching far and wide in their org for any 2-seam, ground-ball throwing machines. Nola has owned the Astros this year.
205
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ White Sox, 8-13, Game 2
« on: August 13, 2019, 10:27:56 pm »Just in case anyone was wondering, Ivan Nova came in to tonight with a 4.80 ERA.
To be fair, it was a sub 1.00 in his last three games and is now like 0.30 for his last 4. He’s been pitching very very well this month.
206
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ White Sox, 8-13, Game 2
« on: August 13, 2019, 10:19:44 pm »Holy shit, what a play.
No kidding. The ole 5-6-3 single play. Diaz and Correa both watched it on the Jumbotron as they walked off the field.
207
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ White Sox, 8-13, Game 2
« on: August 13, 2019, 10:10:41 pm »If Mark is still watching, I think he just threw something at the screen on Straw's AB.
No kidding. Two perfect hitting pitches right down the pike to end the AB.
208
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ White Sox, 8-13, Game 2
« on: August 13, 2019, 08:49:23 pm »Day game tomorrow. The pen will earn its keep.I guess getting Miley in around inning 4 (so he could do his game day routine) then flying up Urquidy to start tomorrow was not an option? Maybe I’m overthinking it. Astros have TONS of games in a row coming up.
209
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ O's 8/10
« on: August 12, 2019, 09:33:16 pm »My money's on das.
Late the the game here. Yes, I've been many times. A bunch with Melvin (posts as Houston on here sometimes) as well. Camden Yard is still my favorite MLB ballpark and I've been to 11 or 12 so far. It set the standard when it was created and they have done an excellent job updating sound, video and amenities while not distracting from the classic beauty of the stadium one bit. It's just gorgeous, the food is great, the sightlines are great and you can bring in your own food.
The Griffey plaque is where he hit one during the homerun derby one year. It was not in a live game.
210
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ O's 8/10
« on: August 10, 2019, 06:23:31 pm »
Fun facts about home runs hit there:
https://www.roarfrom34.com/here-are-some-fun-facts-about-the-100-eutaw-street-home-runs-hit-at-oriole-park-at-camden-yards/
https://www.roarfrom34.com/here-are-some-fun-facts-about-the-100-eutaw-street-home-runs-hit-at-oriole-park-at-camden-yards/
211
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ O's 8/10
« on: August 10, 2019, 06:21:57 pm »Did Alvarez actually clear that fence? (Not the outfield fence, obviously, but the iron fence/gate behind the seats.)
Yes. He hit it out onto Eutaw Street. Very rare at Camden.
212
Talk Zone / Re: Off day question
« on: August 08, 2019, 06:17:26 pm »1998 is in the Astrosdome so there is that contextual difference. I still like 2019 better. But I would like to have seen what 1998 could put up in MMP.
I would have liked to have seen that as well. But, agree, 2019 is better.
213
Talk Zone / Re: espn and fairydust
« on: August 06, 2019, 03:21:18 pm »With Sanchez, the magic seemed to be: “You have a great curveball, use it. “
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
And, lay off the 2-seamer in favor of the 4-seamer.
214
Talk Zone / Re: espn and fairydust
« on: August 05, 2019, 05:02:19 pm »the comentators have used the term(for lack of a better word)that the Astros sprinkled fairy dust over their pitchers to make them better...wonder if Hinch has an in with the tooth fairy or tinkerbell?
Hinch has actually called it “magic dust” in interviews.
215
Talk Zone / Re: Reymin Guduan
« on: August 05, 2019, 05:01:21 pm »Too many girlfriends.
That’s a guduan.
216
Talk Zone / Re: Peacock
« on: August 05, 2019, 04:18:00 am »
No need to guess (or worry, apparently). From astros.com:
Right-hander Brad Peacock had trouble finding the strike zone but was otherwise healthy in his Minor League rehab start on Saturday for Triple-A Round Rock. Peacock (right shoulder soreness) allowed five earned runs, three hits and two walks in 1 1/3 innings, throwing 33 pitches. He’ll pitch again Wednesday for Round Rock, and when he returns to Houston, he’ll be in the bullpen.
“He felt good physically,” Hinch said. “He just said he had no idea where the ball was going. Rough line by the look of it, but just getting him in the game and getting him to report he felt physically good is a good sign. He’ll have a few days off and he’ll pitch again on rehab next week.”
https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/martin-maldonado-guides-astros-no-hitter
Right-hander Brad Peacock had trouble finding the strike zone but was otherwise healthy in his Minor League rehab start on Saturday for Triple-A Round Rock. Peacock (right shoulder soreness) allowed five earned runs, three hits and two walks in 1 1/3 innings, throwing 33 pitches. He’ll pitch again Wednesday for Round Rock, and when he returns to Houston, he’ll be in the bullpen.
“He felt good physically,” Hinch said. “He just said he had no idea where the ball was going. Rough line by the look of it, but just getting him in the game and getting him to report he felt physically good is a good sign. He’ll have a few days off and he’ll pitch again on rehab next week.”
https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/martin-maldonado-guides-astros-no-hitter
217
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners @ Astros, August 3, 2019
« on: August 03, 2019, 09:48:43 pm »
How pissed are the Blue Jays business management team right now? Probably wondering where they get their own Strom.
218
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners @ Astros, August 3, 2019
« on: August 03, 2019, 08:57:23 pm »
Thanks. Internet on Cape Cod is horrible. First world vacation problems...
219
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners @ Astros, August 3, 2019
« on: August 03, 2019, 08:54:53 pm »
I can’t watch the game. Who is warming up for the 9th?
220
Game Zone 2019 / Re: New & Improved Astros v. Cleveland 7/31
« on: July 31, 2019, 08:42:46 pm »
McHugh better get it together otherwise his walk/big contract year will end up being a minor league contract with a spring training invite by some non-contending team.
221
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 04:19:55 pm »Cole has the urge to see the biggest possible dollar signs he can.
And you know this how? Are you a friend of his? Or just internet speculation?
222
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 03:38:50 pm »Astros get Aaron Sanchez, Joe Biagnini, and Zach Greinke today. Didn't give up Tucker apparently.
He said he wanted a reliever, a starting pitcher and a backup catcher. Look what he got.
224
Talk Zone / Re: What I hate to hear
« on: July 23, 2019, 03:40:38 pm »Mchugh isn't going back to the rotation. They made that decision when he came back and it would take too long at this point to get him stretched back out
I understand this. Hence my question. What is the value of a lefty reliever when we already have good relievers that can plat to both lefty and righty splits? I'm just trying to noodle through the rationale that would make a lefty reliever a priority here.
225
Talk Zone / Re: What I hate to hear
« on: July 23, 2019, 03:21:17 pm »After listening to AJ and Justice, sounds like a lefty reliever is likely to be the first add.
As a precursor to moving McHugh back to the rotation since he has good lefty splits?
226
Game Zone 2019 / Re: A’s @ Astros - July 22, 2019
« on: July 22, 2019, 08:17:42 pm »
I’m guessing that when the Dodgers spent all those millions on the Cuban pipeline, this is what they were hoping for.
227
Talk Zone / Re: Our info source
« on: July 22, 2019, 11:27:05 am »
In addition to consulting with the General Manager on trades, free agent signings and other baseball transactions, Kevin oversees the Astros pro scouting efforts, which includes comprehensive scouting of both minor league and Major League players across the 30 MLB clubs as well as independent leagues and foreign professional leagues.
Cubs are awful hitting left handed pitching and are looking for help. Reddick?
228
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros July 21, 2019
« on: July 21, 2019, 04:07:07 pm »
Ugh, hate to see that with Sean Kelly.
229
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros July 21, 2019
« on: July 21, 2019, 03:53:47 pm »
Nice recovery by Harris after the dink hit by Andrews.
230
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros July 21, 2019
« on: July 21, 2019, 03:28:06 pm »
That BB by McHugh is 100% the responsibility of the fans doing that stupid wave.
231
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros July 21, 2019
« on: July 21, 2019, 03:10:51 pm »
James is indeed not right. Loss of 5-7mph on the FB, shaking arm repeatedly.
232
Talk Zone / Re: Jake Marisnick - a good villain, a bad guy, or neither?
« on: July 21, 2019, 08:48:15 am »An excellent point. I used to respect Ausmus as a manager, but he probably ordered the pitcher to dot Marisnick. I have no more respect for Ausmus. Fuck him. I hope his team falls apart.
I have been surprised (not in a good way) at Ausmus in post game interviews and especially in his comments after the Marisnick incident. He comes across exasperated, dull, full of platitudes, not very insightful and decidedly old school. I have a hard time reconciling what I see with his reputation.
That said, my perception may be tainted by 4 years of Hinch, who is one of the most media-savvy baseball people I have ever seen.
233
Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel
« on: July 19, 2019, 12:06:47 pm »Bigger than the Big Unit? Beltran?
Yes on both accounts. For Beltran, he was a rental that I hoped would stay but felt confident that the team would still be a playoff contender with Bagwell, Biggio, Berkman, Ensberg, Lane, Palmeiro, etc… at the helm on offense and field defense. I was dazzled by his performance during the rental, for sure but also suspected he’d come back to earth over a full season, which he did and that might be the difference in a few games over the year. Which, in turn, would not have raised my expectations from playoff contender to WS contender.
Regarding Johnson, he was a rental and I never expected him to resign with the team. I had a hope but that was not based on anything other that fanboi desires and was deeply countered by the practical realities of the FA market at the time and known intelligence suggesting destinations on other teams.
About Morton, McCullers status was known and Morton represented the difference between WS aspirations and a potentially historic run for the year. Couple that with all the chatter about his happiness playing for THIS specific team, it was a shock and the implications were potentially noteworthy and actually being realized. So, yes, easily including Beltran and Johnson.
234
Talk Zone / Re: 4th starter
« on: July 19, 2019, 09:15:40 am »The 4th starter’s turn is tomorrow, and the starter is listed at TBD. Is Sneed past the ten days wait so could come up to take the start?
Sneed pitched 7 innings of no-run ball in RR on Tuesday so I'm guessing he's not available until Sunday even if 10 days has passed.
Looking at the RR schedule, it even lists TBD as today's starter. What a pickle the Astros system is in.
235
Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel
« on: July 18, 2019, 03:37:11 pm »If we are talking about wishing someone would have re-signed, I would say Charlie Morton is the one who is missed. He is currently 11-2 with a 2.35 and 148K's. I would say that Miley came along much cheaper than Keuchel and has done just as good of a job, if not better than Keuchel did last year.
Yup. Months in now, his is the most stinging Astros loss of a FA in the entirety of my fandom. That said, the Rays offer was so extravagant, it even surprised Morton. It's proving to be a prescient move on their part, for sure, but it's hard to manage to such an outlier.
236
Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel
« on: July 18, 2019, 03:33:38 pm »Absolutely this. No other team offered him as much as the Astros. The attitude that anything under what he wanted was lowball and not a “real” offer is simply wrong. Keuchel wanted to leave. Good for him.
Exactly right. The Astros have offered him $15M, $17.9M, $24M and $90M in the last three years. He's turned them all down. The Astros were not the problem here.
237
Talk Zone / Re: Does census trend = RIP OWA?
« on: July 18, 2019, 02:57:30 pm »
I got my start "here" in 1997. It was shocking to me that there would be a community of Astros fans since I had been an Astros fan since 1978 but had never lived in Astros territory so never had a meaningful discussion with another Astros fan. Completely foreign to me. Pandora's box was surely opened.
238
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-15-2019
« on: July 15, 2019, 10:53:06 pm »
Stomach churning DP by Reddick.
239
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-15-2019
« on: July 15, 2019, 10:52:15 pm »Alvarez's swing is absolute "buttah".
Ball comes in at 84mph and leaves at 112mph. Wow.
240
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-15-2019
« on: July 15, 2019, 10:34:41 pm »I'd take Julia burping the alphabet over Kevin trying his hardest.
He's fucking atrocious.
He needs to stop crying yard. The BBG’s are listening.
Edited to add: Jinx
241
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-15-2019
« on: July 15, 2019, 10:32:46 pm »
Please don’t ever show that swing by Altuve again.
242
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-15-2019
« on: July 15, 2019, 10:30:26 pm »
Nice catch on the flair by Calhoun.
243
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-15-2019
« on: July 15, 2019, 10:27:45 pm »Just the 2nd hit of the night for the Angels.
Uh, Kevin... it's the third fucking inning.
I am underwhelmed. You would think there’d be a decent line of talent chomping at the bit for that gig. Great opportunity for a trial.
I guess Capps is busy down in RR.
244
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-15-2019
« on: July 15, 2019, 10:25:50 pm »
Framber is falling in love with his deuce. Tattooed FB for the HR won’t help.
245
Talk Zone / Re: Astros' opener
« on: July 15, 2019, 10:30:36 am »
Hinch & Co. are going to earn their $$ over the next couple of weeks. I hate to see the state of the back 40% of the rotation but am really interested to see how it turns out and the machinations employed. An interesting and intriguing part fo being a fan. Good teams do well, great teams do well even with adversity.
246
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 11:17:19 pm »
Goodness gracious. No easy games in forever.
247
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 11:12:52 pm »
Why doesn’t Strom go out there and have a chat with him?
248
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 11:10:10 pm »
He’s got the velocity but location is crap tonight
249
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 11:03:59 pm »
The number of location misses by the best Astros pitchers the last few weeks has been alarming.
250
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 10:52:47 pm »
nice base running by both there!!!!
251
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 10:43:02 pm »James getting a little tired here. Be careful...
Nice to see him leaving it all on the field.
252
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 10:42:12 pm »
There you go, James! Nice outing.
253
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 10:28:51 pm »
Tyler White is not a good batter.
255
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 10:03:20 pm »
Little storm cells are like 3-5 miles across and booking to the SSW so any shower will be very short lived.
256
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 09:58:18 pm »Springer was late on 3 consecutive 94 mph fastballs.
Guessing changeup?
257
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 09:44:52 pm »
I hope Yordan was watching Jake bust out of the box like that.
258
Talk Zone / Re: Baseball
« on: July 13, 2019, 09:44:08 pm »
Good take, Jim. I feel the sting of disappointment after a game like that too but, it is tempered by the fact that we are watching a good team having a good year and, regardless of that particular outcome, I was able to virtually watch the game with a bunch of friends that I have now known for 20+ years that get my passion and make the up AND downs that much more enjoyable.
259
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 09:30:31 pm »
I’m beginning to loathe home runs.
260
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 13, 2019
« on: July 13, 2019, 09:19:07 pm »
I wonder what kind of contract Miley is going to garner next year. Too bad he was not signed for two.
261
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers - 7/12
« on: July 12, 2019, 09:41:56 pm »Man, Chirinos is awful currently. 2 outs.
White is giving him a run for his money. Despite his lucky blooop two run “single”.
262
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers - 7/12
« on: July 12, 2019, 09:22:37 pm »
“Coors Field of South Oklahoma”. Classic by Blummer.
263
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Major Leauge All-Star Game, July 9, 2019
« on: July 09, 2019, 07:50:06 pm »
4 Astros played so far, 4 perfect outcomes. Great showing by the Astros so far.
264
Talk Zone / Re: Verlander -- Sleep Guru
« on: July 09, 2019, 05:21:33 pm »I guess they kind of admit it here.
That defies logic (and physics). That is like saying a car has less drag as it moves through the air if you change the floormats.
265
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 09, 2019, 04:42:14 pm »It's from Sherman in the NY Post, but the Stros are "said to be among the most interested teams" inquiring about Trevor Bauer.
That would be surprising since the Indians are firmly in the playoff picture. As in not in the hunt but actually in right now. How would you ever explain that to your fans?
266
Talk Zone / Re: All Star Game
« on: July 08, 2019, 03:02:09 pm »AL Lineup:
Springer RF
LeMahieu 2B
Trout CF
Santana 1B
Martinez DH
Bregman 3B
Sanchez C
Brantley LF
Polanco SS
Verlander SP
Wow, 4 of 10. Is that an Astros record?
267
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Angels at Astros- July 7, 2019
« on: July 07, 2019, 05:15:56 pm »
The quote from right field called Lucroy up the line. There is no reasonable expectation for Jake to be able to react to that last moment shift by Lucroy. Just a bad call.
268
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rockies, July 3, 2019
« on: July 03, 2019, 09:17:05 pm »Miley.
Who would have thought that would be his line after six after seeing how he struggled in the first inning to even find the plate? Wow.
269
Talk Zone / Re: Urquidy called up to start
« on: July 01, 2019, 12:24:00 pm »
I wonder whey not Cy Sneed? He was serviceable in his lone appearance.
270
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 10:18:05 pm »
McHughs sweeping slider looks great tonight.
271
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 10:10:46 pm »Why did Yuli look in at the throw?
To get to the other side.
Oh, wait. Never mind.
272
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 10:00:29 pm »
I blame that HR on the stupid wave. The BBG’s are not to be trifled with.
273
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 09:32:05 pm »
Rondon is a highwire act every appearance these days. Nibbling down and wild up.
274
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 09:26:46 pm »This is literally the worst broadcast of all time. What the fuck are these two clowns babbling about?
Not even sort of talking about the action.
It is profoundly bad.
275
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 08:37:06 pm »
Horrible AB by Marisnick ends the 3rd. Flailing at sliders out of the zone.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 08:35:46 pm »Shocked that Bregman didn't go home
No chance. Gordon was flying on contact.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 08:30:12 pm »He forgot to cover 3B. Got caught watching the game.
I wonder what’s more effective at fixing that. A kangaroo court fine or a steely stare from JV as he gets back to the dugout.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 08:19:29 pm »
JV is not sharp so far. I wonder if his command will sharpen up when his velocity increases later in the game.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 08:17:33 pm »
Does Girardi get paid by the word? Goodness gracious.
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Talk Zone / Re: Joke of a contest in London
« on: June 29, 2019, 04:10:53 pm »
Ha, 17-13 in the bottom of the 7th. It’s like mediocre little league.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 10:33:53 pm »
11 LOBsters. Yikes.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 10:31:48 pm »
Agree with everyone on the cap. It’s my go-to whenever I go to a game.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 10:25:41 pm »
I nervously shelled and ate like 200 pistachios that half inning. Now my stomach hurts.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 10:15:50 pm »
Come on, Jake. Give straw a chance to steal before you try the Bunt.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 10:14:35 pm »
Nice reach. Straw.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 10:10:09 pm »
Nice inning by Osuna.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 10:06:20 pm »
99 from Osuna? Wow.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 09:46:58 pm »
Things are looking up. White is out of the game.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 09:44:47 pm »
<<comments redacted>>
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 09:41:13 pm »
Wow, that hit chart for Altuve looks way different than any I’ve seen for him before.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 09:37:16 pm »
What’s springer barking about on the first pitch?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 09:32:09 pm »
What is that funky kick out that the Mariners catcher is doing during the Marisnick at bat?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 09:11:23 pm »"There is no trace of last year's hometown blues in the 2019 offense." - Knoxbanedoodle, June 15, 2019
The Astros have been outscored 38-7 in five home game since that comment.
https://images.app.goo.gl/8Zdyti3kkE3Q1JBs7
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 09:01:59 pm »
No, no, no! NOT a strike.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 08:36:33 pm »
Nice, tough throw by Altuve to end the inning.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 08:33:10 pm »
It is indeed painful to watch the Astros these days but I do like watching Miley pitch. He’s pro and just as good as Keuchel at a fraction of the price. And fast.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 08:30:13 pm »
Mark beat me to the punch and said it much more eloquently
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seattle v. Houston; June 29
« on: June 28, 2019, 08:28:45 pm »
Why does White take those strikes right down the middle?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Pirates @ Astros, June 25, 2019
« on: June 25, 2019, 10:12:37 pm »A ball hit so hard that it rolled all the way to from almost the infield dirt
A grounder at 109mph. Yikes.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Pirates @ Astros, June 25, 2019
« on: June 25, 2019, 10:07:23 pm »
White is indeed not bad on the 1b bag.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Pirates @ Astros, June 25, 2019
« on: June 25, 2019, 10:06:20 pm »
Colin looks sharp. 2nd pitch deuce was wicked. Slider looks good. FB velocity is back to low 90’s.
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Talk Zone / Re: Nugenix
« on: June 24, 2019, 09:20:06 pm »
I want a life where I can watch Comedy Central and FX all day and be tempted by boner placebos.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 19, 2019, 08:19:25 am »
Hopefully the last week is an indication that White is starting to go on one of his patented (if infrequent) tears which will serve to increase his trade value.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 18, 2019, 03:59:23 pm »There's a highlight of one of his strikeouts last night. Filthy curve ball for strike three. Looked like pre-injury quality to me.
Best news I’ve heard all day. The week will be capped off well if I hear he’s going to the pen (I love pen McHugh) and Framber is staying in the rotation.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 18, 2019, 01:47:11 pm »McHugh's rehab work has yielded 3 innings, 3 hits, 3 runs, 2 BBs, 3SOs. Not dominating AAA or AA.
It's all about reps, not outs or score.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 12, 2019
« on: June 12, 2019, 09:21:18 pm »It was up too. Thames had no business hitting that pitch.
Sure seemed intentional to me.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 12, 2019
« on: June 12, 2019, 09:20:25 pm »That ball was a foot outside.
It was a good bit of hitting; lefty aiming for the short porch out there.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 11, 2019
« on: June 11, 2019, 09:20:55 pm »
Why does Capps keep saying it’s 8-5 Astros?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 11, 2019
« on: June 11, 2019, 07:27:58 pm »
Switched to radio since I’m at the gym. Who is that new voice? JimR’s mic-mate from RR?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 11, 2019
« on: June 11, 2019, 07:21:30 pm »Berkman needs to take a breath. Good lord.
No kidding. The anti-sound bite.
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: June 11, 2019, 09:39:43 am »
Just adding this here. Luhnow’s tweet Sunday morning when he called up Alvarez was priceless. The comments below are funny too.
https://twitter.com/jluhnow/status/1137719089688915969?s=12
https://twitter.com/jluhnow/status/1137719089688915969?s=12
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Talk Zone / Re: How the Houston Astros Disrupted Player Development to Become the Model MLB.....
« on: June 05, 2019, 03:58:54 pm »Just got it on Kindle. Pricey
$18.99 on iBooks. What did you pay?
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Talk Zone / Re: Maddon Conspiracy Theorist??
« on: June 05, 2019, 03:02:26 pm »I'll try and listen to that interview, Noe.
The report that I linked shows that the actual physical drag of the baseballs is measurably different from pre-All-Star Break 2015 to 2017. This is backed up by both independent machine measurements and studying statcast data. The creators of that report actually measure the drag of the baseballs in a controlled environment and try to figure out the reason for the decrease in drag properties and they show only small differences due to different seam heights (as doyce mentioned), but see a much bigger difference in the overall roughness of the ball.
A friend here at work, who happens to be a former MLB pitcher said it this way, "the balls are smoother and harder. Not only do they move towards the plate differently, they leave the bat very differently as well". His words, not mine.
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Talk Zone / Re: How the Houston Astros Disrupted Player Development to Become the Model MLB.....
« on: June 05, 2019, 02:55:25 pm »
I loved this (refreshingly long) book preview. I'll have to go buy the larger volume. Really great insights into first-mover value and the work that goes into sustaining that advantage as others copy your moves.
A corollary to this is this great The Athletic piece on using analytics to develop your minor leaguers. Which happens to be that next step by the Astros to maintain that edge.
https://theathletic.com/990262/2019/05/30/inside-the-astros-cutting-edge-approach-to-minor-league-pitching-development/
A corollary to this is this great The Athletic piece on using analytics to develop your minor leaguers. Which happens to be that next step by the Astros to maintain that edge.
https://theathletic.com/990262/2019/05/30/inside-the-astros-cutting-edge-approach-to-minor-league-pitching-development/
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs SeaHags 06-03-2019
« on: June 05, 2019, 09:55:21 am »Really like Ford and Sparks - low key, matter of fact, strong, timely analysis.
Neutral on Kalas and Blum but they have been growing on me lately. They are personally enjoying the contributions of the second stringers and it shows through and elevates the broadcast. Don't like Morales - she is annoying and detracts from the game. However her interviews with the Mayfield and Stubbs families were great.
I like Ford and Sparks as well. And, Sparks in the post season, especially post game interviews, are a riot.
Kalas and Blum are good. I like the player stories Blum brings to the discussion. And, he really shines when they bring other former players into the booth for an inning.
Your Morales comment is confounding to me. MM nails it above.
And, finally, if ever I am critical of either the TV or radio teams, all I have to do is listen to another teams' broadcast team for a few minutes. My goodness, there's some crap broadcast teams out there. Flip over to the Seattle feed for a couple of minutes tonight if you want an example.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:47:33 pm »Wheels Fisher gets the BB.
And almost gets picked. Moore has a sweet move to 1st.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:45:55 pm »
Wheels Fisher gets the BB.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:43:26 pm »
Kemp with the line drive bomb!
And Reddick gives him the awkward humpy hug.
And Reddick gives him the awkward humpy hug.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:42:12 pm »
Stat cast zone heat maps for this game will be interesting. Stuff is being called 3-4” off the plate c
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:40:02 pm »
Miley with 4 k’s thru 2. Big zone is helping a bit. He’s taking what’s being given to him. Blue is consistent with both teams so that’s good.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:32:32 pm »I don't like that chest protector.
Looks like a blue tortoise shell.
The light grey mask Chirinos is wearing is ugly as well.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:31:39 pm »Well, top of the zone looks massive too.
Moore works almost as fast as Miley.
Moore throws some fluttering upper 70’s thing. Looks like a knuckleball on the way to the plate. Curve is the same speed.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:29:30 pm »
Well, top of the zone looks massive too.
Moore works almost as fast as Miley.
Moore works almost as fast as Miley.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:28:10 pm »
M’s with a walk and hit but no runs scored B1.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:26:52 pm »
BIIIG strike zone by blue tonight. Inside, outside and low. No idea about up top yet.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:24:13 pm »
Interesting route by Jake.
Good job keeping it in front of him, though.
Good job keeping it in front of him, though.
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Game Zone 2019 / Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 04, 2019, 09:22:44 pm »
Miley looks sharp so far.
No hits, no runs for the Astros at the top of the inning.
No hits, no runs for the Astros at the top of the inning.
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Indeed, hyperbole is a close cousin to just about everyone here.
What a fantastic comment.
330
Talk Zone / Re: The crazy play last night
« on: June 04, 2019, 01:52:27 pm »
Scott Service said as much in his post game interview. He said the catcher should not have vacated. He also said he had done this himself in his playing career so he knew it was wrong. In a classy move, he also said his catcher had a great game except for this one move and that he would never make the same mistake again, just as he (Service) never did.
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Talk Zone / Re: Maddon Conspiracy Theorist??
« on: June 03, 2019, 05:08:54 pm »I've been kind of lazy looking into this, but here's Jayson Stark in the The Athletic:
Telling.
I don't like this type of baseball play. It's too one-dimensional. The team the Astros have fielded over the last couple of weeks has been fun. One of the players mentioned it; going from a power-hitting team to small-ball, 1st to 3rd type of team overnight. I do want the studs back, though....
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A's June 2
« on: June 02, 2019, 05:31:53 pm »A's have five hits...three of them have left the yard.
They must have looked up the cubs playbook.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A's June 2
« on: June 02, 2019, 05:24:57 pm »
Man, what a tag by Profar.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A's June 2
« on: June 02, 2019, 05:21:11 pm »
These kids are awesome. The depth of the org is incredible.
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Talk Zone / Re: Maddon Conspiracy Theorist??
« on: May 29, 2019, 12:16:34 pm »My tongue in cheek response is...
Joe Madden can fuck off. Ha ha ha.
Like the swallows returning to Capistrano...
336
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: May 29, 2019, 12:14:18 pm »Has to be, right? I'm just wondering what the hell position they were trying
Y’all are super creepy.
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Talk Zone / Re: Maddon Conspiracy Theorist??
« on: May 29, 2019, 12:13:04 pm »Maddon on the absurd carry on balls hit in Houston's dome last two games.
Thoughts??
One Chicago sportswriter was compelled to add:
“Maddon's tongue in cheek response to all the home runs hit in this series”
...before the quote to give context that the words alone don’t provide.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 24, 2019, 06:01:56 pm »At which point Scotland will secede.
And the Welsh contingent of secessionists counted in the 1’s will start to gain followers.
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: May 24, 2019, 08:50:16 am »Whitley. Oh, my.
I keep hoping that he's "working on things" at the direction of the pitching staff and is being told to not worry about the on-the-field results. I think I'm whistling past the graveyard though as I've not seen that at the AAA level before...
340
Talk Zone / Re: MLB & MiLB Base Salary Pay
« on: May 22, 2019, 03:21:03 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
Alternately, high-performing draftees can circumvent the entire process by signing with a Japanese team for more $$ than the typical signing bonus then flip to an international free agent at 25 years old. I love this hack of the existing bureaucracy.
http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/26797380/pitcher-skips-mlb-draft-japan-deal
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Beer and Queso / Re: The Toadies
« on: May 22, 2019, 11:48:29 am »Is Nectar's still a pilgrimage spot for jam band nerds?
Yup. Where else can you get good wings, great poutine and Phish?
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Beer and Queso / Re: The Toadies
« on: May 22, 2019, 06:33:19 am »Is the coat factory a pretty big deal there?
Ha, no. Wrong Burlington. I think that’s over in New Jersey.
Burlington, VT > Every Other Burlington in the US.
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Beer and Queso / Re: The Toadies
« on: May 22, 2019, 06:30:39 am »Is Higher Ground still standing?
Yup. Daughter is going to see Death Cab for Cutie there next month. It’s amazing the decent acoustics they’ve been able to generate in the warehouse setting. Sound engineers FTW.
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: May 21, 2019, 03:15:05 pm »How many teams are really looking for a 28.5 year old, light-hitting, overweight, defensive liability?
You've cracked Ground Control v2.0 encryption and stolen "the plan".
Astros Braintrust: "We have a logjam of talent and have a couple of resources out of options in White and Kemp so we can't stash them at Round Rock as contingency".
Astros Braintrust: "Lets have one of them stink up the joint to start the season so they'll clear waivers".
Tyler White: "I can eat a bunch of Twinkies to really sell the concept".
Astros Braintrust: "Make it so".
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Beer and Queso / Re: The Toadies
« on: May 21, 2019, 04:52:17 am »
Thanks for the tip. Always liked ‘em. Burlington (VT) seems like the kind of place they’d hit up. I’ll have to keep an eye out.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Apollo 11
« on: May 20, 2019, 04:28:11 pm »
Cool. Thanks @waldo and @subnuclear. Follow up with you (or anyone else), is it in 1080p or 4K HDR?
347
Beer and Queso / Re: Apollo 11
« on: May 20, 2019, 01:24:05 pm »
So, what are the options to watch? Just theaters and blue-ray disk?
348
Talk Zone / Re: Tucker
« on: May 17, 2019, 11:32:02 am »Hope he is back to “most wanted” status.
As a trade piece or as a fix to the upcoming Springer/Brantly/Reddick/Marisnick FA wave?
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Talk Zone / Re: MadBum
« on: May 17, 2019, 11:29:32 am »And even with that his ERA for the season is 3.12 because his ERA of 1.43 in the first 6 starts. I'd like to see what the Astros and Strom do do with Stroman
Very McHughian numbers and timeline.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros - 5/10/19
« on: May 10, 2019, 07:51:05 pm »
Thanks @mraup and @lefty. Can’t watch the game tonight so y’all are my eyes and ears.
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Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: May 10, 2019, 07:49:45 pm »Player evaluation is all about projecting the future, not about past static’s. “How will be project as an every day player? As a backup?” In Keuchel (and others) case, “how will he be as he ages?”
The “as he ages” part is just so interesting both on the ascending (as with Laureano) and descending (as with Keuchel) side of the equation. It’s one of the things I like about following the Astros. We get to see the results of that analysis played out very, very well. And it’s fun to try to dip our toe into that analytical stream and try to figure out their analytical process.
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how long can this go on before it becomes unrealistic for any team to sign him for the season. Can he be season ready and come in and pitch?
No. His simulated games he pitches each Tuesday are not the same as game action. He’ll need a little time in the minors.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros - 5/10/19
« on: May 10, 2019, 07:39:35 pm »Crap. Tuves chops one to 3B and beats it out, but was running the last 30 feet with his back straight up and chopping his steps. Takes himself out of the game after a couple of pitches.
Hopefully something minor, and the time off will do him some good.
How did he look walking off the field? Wincing or just irritated?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros - 5/9/19
« on: May 10, 2019, 11:32:30 am »According to Reid Ryan, there are "baffles" that were blown out of position by the wind which allowed the rain to come in.
40mph with gusts to 50mph in a wet microburst make the water find a way in. Typically torrential rain will only go sideways for short durations of time but this was noteworthy for duration and intensity.
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Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel - The Principled Social Warrior Of Fairness
« on: May 07, 2019, 11:36:52 am »I don't agree with this. The owners are making more money than any owners in history. The players deserve their fair share. But these issues can only be addressed in a new CBA and Keuchel has to deal with the playing field he's on, and he hasn't done a very good job of maximizing his value.
I’m not sure how I feel about this. In what reality in this capitalist market is there a direct correlation between entity profitability and employee wages? When owners (shareholders, private owners, franchisers, etc...) go through profitable periods, employees get paid what the market will bear. When those owners sustain losses, employees still get paid what the market will bear until the thing becomes insolvent. I’m not sure it’s a reasonable expectation that owners equally share profits but bear all the risk for the ebb and flow of profitability. I guess an analog would be a franchise like McDonalds. They are rapidly moving towards a living wage for employees but that has nothing to do with profit sharing. It’s all about customer pressures in response to socioeconomic mindset shifts.
Interesting to think through.
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Talk Zone / Re: Red Ass
« on: May 05, 2019, 12:50:24 pm »Is it gone? How and why?
It’s just hard to find. Easier to ask Google than to find it on the front page.
http://www.orangewhoopass.com/2008/03/06/funk-wagner-the-talkzone-glossary/
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: May 05, 2019, 10:51:21 am »Maybe he just had a bad month.
He didn’t have a bad month. He had a bad 11 days that just happened to be at the start of the season so it was magnified. He’s actually been quite good far longer in this early season (17 days) than bad.
Edited to add: @juliogotay beat me to the punch with actual data...
358
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Twins- April 30, 2019
« on: April 30, 2019, 09:18:51 pm »I thought the same.
On his double, I thought he looked a little gimpy. Very similar to late last year.
359
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Twins- April 30, 2019
« on: April 30, 2019, 09:17:20 pm »Is there really something wrong with Altuve, or is this just some rest?
Who’d a thunk he’d go 1 for 4 and raise his batting average.
And have White pinch hit for him, who has a higher BA. And is pulling away with that long single.
360
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Twins- April 30, 2019
« on: April 30, 2019, 08:56:41 pm »
Chirinos just missed that.
361
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Twins- April 30, 2019
« on: April 30, 2019, 08:06:23 pm »I think he was lollygagging.
I’m not sure which would be worse.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Twins- April 30, 2019
« on: April 30, 2019, 08:00:15 pm »
Was Altuve limping on that double?
363
What a horrific showing by the offense. The chatter in the GameZone was spot on. Altuve and White are deep, dark black holes in the lineup right now and the approaches we saw last night made pedestrian Odorizzi look like Cy Young. If I were Hinch, I'd levy a $100 fine to any player for the next One (1) game that does not take the Mike Schmidt approach of watching pitch 1, no matter what, so they can see how the ball is coming out of the pitchers hand and see what he's throwing. Clearly, I'm not Hinch tho...
Verlander was classy as always, tipping his cap and making no excuses. The fact that there was "chatter" in the clubhouse about the check swing call in the 3rd kills me. The only reasonable chatter should have been about the awful approaches the hitters were taking against an ok pitcher. With the express intent of changing things.
"Twins third baseman Ehire Adrianza led off the third inning with a homer on a 3-2 pitch -- one pitch after Verlander nearly got Adrianza to strike out on a 2-2 check swing -- to back seven scoreless innings from Odorizzi in Minnesota’s 1-0 win over the Astros at Target Field. The check swing to Adrianza that third-base umpire Doug Eddings called a ball was a topic of conversation in the Astros' clubhouse after the game."
https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/justin-verlander-astros-fall-to-twins
Verlander was classy as always, tipping his cap and making no excuses. The fact that there was "chatter" in the clubhouse about the check swing call in the 3rd kills me. The only reasonable chatter should have been about the awful approaches the hitters were taking against an ok pitcher. With the express intent of changing things.
"Twins third baseman Ehire Adrianza led off the third inning with a homer on a 3-2 pitch -- one pitch after Verlander nearly got Adrianza to strike out on a 2-2 check swing -- to back seven scoreless innings from Odorizzi in Minnesota’s 1-0 win over the Astros at Target Field. The check swing to Adrianza that third-base umpire Doug Eddings called a ball was a topic of conversation in the Astros' clubhouse after the game."
https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/justin-verlander-astros-fall-to-twins
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Twins - April 29, 2019
« on: April 29, 2019, 08:26:03 pm »That was two of the worst back-to-back at bats that I’ve ever seen...
They are remarkable. In the remarkably bad sense.
365
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Twins - April 29, 2019
« on: April 29, 2019, 08:00:13 pm »
Strike that. All three up in that inning.
366
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Twins - April 29, 2019
« on: April 29, 2019, 07:58:51 pm »
What a miserable AB by White.
367
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: April 29, 2019, 12:57:18 pm »Third starter, Peacock to the pen to replace James?
Makes sense. Thanks.
The Athletic has an article today about how shallow the Astros pen is. Good but shallow. This would be an elegant way to solve that.
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: April 28, 2019, 12:48:42 pm »Alvarez isn't knocking on the MLB door, he is kicking it in. Still short of his 22nd birthday. What is he going to look like when he is 25?
I wonder if Luhnow would consider moving Kemp, White and Marisnick for pitching. then bring up Alvarez and Straw.
Pitching? What pitching do you want replaced?
369
Talk Zone / Re: Boras and Free Agency article in The Athletic
« on: April 26, 2019, 09:42:08 am »https://theathletic.com/945374/2019/04/25/rosenthal-has-agent-scott-boras-failed-to-adapt-assessing-his-winners-and-losers-in-free-agency/
good reporting from Rosenthal.
Here's another good one: Dale Murphy (who's writing and insights I've increasingly appreciated) talking about Mike Schmidt and Mike Trout.
https://theathletic.com/938406/2019/04/23/dale-murphy-i-played-against-some-of-the-all-time-greats-mike-trout-is-better-than-all-of-them/
370
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Indians at Astros, April 25, 2019
« on: April 25, 2019, 09:43:23 pm »
Osuna looks good.
B9, here we go!
B9, here we go!
371
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Twinkies @ Astros, April 24
« on: April 24, 2019, 08:02:38 pm »Brantley almost smiled.
Springer was being a total goofball and still Brantley didn’t crack. Pretty impressive.
372
Talk Zone / Re: Brantley Article
« on: April 20, 2019, 06:15:36 pm »“I’m the R in WAR” is a classic.
And the fact that he’s perfectly fine with that is great.
373
Talk Zone / Re: Brantley Article
« on: April 20, 2019, 05:49:27 pm »OK, I'm subscribing.
You won’t regret it.
Over the years, it has been rare that I would read non Astros coverage unless there was some tangential reason to do so. The Athletic coverage is so good, I find myself branching out quite a bit and it’s enhancing my enjoyment of the game.
The writing is just great. Good example is Stark’s “totally useless info” series. This weeks version has a hilarious interview with Erik Kratz after he caught all 18 innings of a game last week.
https://theathletic.com/933505/2019/04/19/stark-the-useless-info-dept-lets-play-18-edition/?source=dailyemail
374
Beer and Queso / Re: The Last Jedi [spoiler alert]
« on: April 18, 2019, 11:06:40 am »...after R2 just magically awoke from years in a droid-coma with the other 99% of the map. 🙄
With all my fanboi might, I was never able to reconcile in my mind how that happened. Best I could come up with was Yoda and the other deceased Jedi braintrust willed it to happen to wake up the slumbering Luke. It’s a pretty unsatisfying rationale though.
375
Beer and Queso / Re: London / UK recommendations
« on: April 17, 2019, 11:51:53 am »
If u want to stay reasonably close to London for the small town part of the experience, anything in the Cotswolds will do. It’s a beautiful area and well suited for small walks between the hamlets.
376
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @A’s, April16, 2019
« on: April 16, 2019, 10:28:41 pm »True or false: McHugh is a better starter for having spent a year in the pen.
That it having time to kill when he was recovering from injury in ‘17 to learn the slider grip and play around with it.
377
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @A’s, April16, 2019
« on: April 16, 2019, 10:19:17 pm »Putting one between the numbers right after a GS is a bad look.
It seemed to get away from Hendricks. He was wincing as soon as he released the pitch.
378
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @A’s, April16, 2019
« on: April 16, 2019, 10:16:21 pm »
Yeah baybeeeee. Bergs with the slam!
379
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @A’s, April16, 2019
« on: April 16, 2019, 10:06:44 pm »He just about got it in the throat.
https://twitter.com/AlexBonilla_OVA/status/1118344981071257600
That Mattress Firm slo mo at the end is ridiculous.
380
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @A’s, April16, 2019
« on: April 16, 2019, 10:03:02 pm »
First time seeing White in person this year. He lost a bunch of weight last year and got in decent shape. Did he gain it all back?
381
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @A’s, April16, 2019
« on: April 16, 2019, 09:26:20 pm »
Have not been able to figure out Blue’s strike zone yet.
382
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @A’s, April16, 2019
« on: April 16, 2019, 09:22:05 pm »You're not going to see many catches better than those two.
+1. The Chapman catch was excellent.
383
Talk Zone / Re: Beltran told Paxton
« on: April 14, 2019, 06:48:39 pm »But then there's this:
And this:
“Paxton was peppered for five runs and eight hits in four-plus innings by the Astros with an 8-6 victory that night. None of the hits that Paxton permitted came with a runner at second base”
384
Talk Zone / Re: Opening Day
« on: April 06, 2019, 03:11:52 pm »
I wish I could be there with y’all!
385
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: April 01, 2019, 05:10:22 am »
Trent Thornton, of Fresno (AAA) fame last year and traded to the Blue Jays for Díaz pitches five innings, allowing two hits, no runs and striking out 8 (!) in his MLB debut yesterday. Good for him.
http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/trent-thornton-sets-blue-jays-record-strikeouts-mlb-debut/sn-amp/
http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/trent-thornton-sets-blue-jays-record-strikeouts-mlb-debut/sn-amp/
386
Talk Zone / Re: Another good twitter feed to read
« on: March 29, 2019, 02:20:14 pm »Very cool! I didn't understand the positioning one, though.
For example, here's a flyout to Springer. Each position starting point is the small circle and the big circle is the player position when the play ended. In this example, Springer moves like a foot since he is so well positioned and the center fielder instinctually moves a few steps to right to cover. Red line is the path of the ball.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D2xmFPnUwAAy6nu.jpg
In this scenario, it's a rundown so the player positioning over time is much more complex with the left fielder covering third base and the center fielder sprinting in to back up the rundown.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D2xSVVJWwAAtAgv.jpg
387
Talk Zone / Another good twitter feed to read
« on: March 29, 2019, 12:34:14 pm »
Not as good as Pitching Ninja (yet) but interesting for sure. It's from the head of MLB Baseball R&D. Lots of Astros info in the feed from yesterday. Statcast-generated views of things. I especially like to see the field positioning diagrams as plays (like a rundown) develops.
https://twitter.com/darenw
https://twitter.com/darenw
388
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 28, 2019, 01:16:48 pm »I can see why Budgirl didn't want to do it anymore.
:^P
389
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 28, 2019, 11:58:27 am »Everyone is so quick on the draw. The first pick is official as long as the OWA timestamp starts with 2.Eastern or Central?
390
Talk Zone / It’s Opening Day!!!!
« on: March 28, 2019, 06:33:01 am »
T-Minus 8 hours until The Void is over.
How will you be watching/listening to the Astros today?
I’ll be at an airport watching on MLB.tv then dark for probably innings 2-6 while in the air then back online as soon as the plane touches down. I’ll likely actually pay for inflight WiFi so I can follow aLong in the GZ during those middle innings.
How will you be watching/listening to the Astros today?
I’ll be at an airport watching on MLB.tv then dark for probably innings 2-6 while in the air then back online as soon as the plane touches down. I’ll likely actually pay for inflight WiFi so I can follow aLong in the GZ during those middle innings.
391
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 26, 2019, 09:29:56 am »The report I saw said the “new” money he was getting was 4 @ $120.5M which is an AAV of just over $30M for the “new” money. That is interesting because Sunday on the front office show, both Bowden and Duquette were speculating that it would take 6 @ $185 to sign Cole. That would be an AAV of just over $30M
I REALLY like Cole. I REALLY don’t like a 6 year deal. If he has another great year this year, he may get it but I’m not sure I’d want the Astros to be the takers. Problem is, I’m not sure he takes an extension that does not push the time out. Here’s to hoping the Astros brass work their magic...
392
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 22, 2019, 02:27:08 pm »It always works that way. Players call the shots, 100% of the time.
Yup. And, sometimes the shot they call is to yield material decision responsibility to their agent and the player simply signs what is put in front of them. Which is stupid but people are sometimes naive, inexperienced or just basically not smart about these things.
393
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 19, 2019, 08:49:43 pm »Per Mark Berman:
MLB sources: The #Astros have reached an agreement on a six-year/$100 million contract with All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman that includes this season. Deal covers this year & the 3 years he'd be eligible for arbitration plus the first two years Alex can become a free agent
Excellent. I love the Pressley extension too.
394
Talk Zone / Re: Spring Training 2019
« on: March 16, 2019, 08:50:04 pm »Professional hitter (Brantley).
I think of Alou every time Brantley is at the plate. That’s a really good thing to think. Just a really good, professional hitter. His second RBI hit today was a thing of beauty; following the slider down and poking it to left field.
The glasses he wears probably reinforce my memories of Alou as well.
395
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 06:28:27 pm »They don't have to be a member of the union, but they cannot contract independently of the CBA. Just as an example, I'm pretty sure Kevin Millar wasn't allowed to be a member of the union because he was a replacement player.
That’s interesting. I wonder why non-union players are forced to align with an agreement that they are not party to. The law is pretty much settled, confirmed recently even, that union representation is not implied or enforced a pond non-union members in places that are vastly majority union.
396
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 04:04:36 pm »
A question for nobody in general: do players HAVE to join the union and conform to the CBA?
397
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 12:38:21 pm »That's a bargain.
For last year Tony, yes. For last 3 years Tony, not so much.
Smart of the Nats to back load the value of the contract and make it optional.
398
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: March 09, 2019, 07:56:17 pm »Maldonado to KC, 1-yr, 2.5M, with another 1.5 in incentives.
What are these good but not great players thinking? Don’t they see that teams have learned to properly curate a pipeline of effective, cheaper talent that have a much higher value proposition and typically a greater potential upside?
399
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: March 08, 2019, 04:20:02 pm »Holy hell, what was he thinking turning that down?
+1
Incredible what these people are thinking sometimes.
400
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: March 08, 2019, 02:37:09 pm »I just don't understand his need for free agency and not being an Astro
Here you go. These should help:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3389792/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2717041/
401
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: March 04, 2019, 09:33:43 pm »I miss Charlie and I wish we had him back right now. Having said that, I think the Astros are smart. I think there’s enough in his medicals that they thought the risk was just too great. At least that is the only way I can make sense of the decision to let him go. The proof will be in the pudding and time will tell. If he’s on the DL have the year it’ll prove to have been a good move by the Astros. If he wins 15 games then……
Yeah, I know... I get the sneaky suspicion that the Astros will be shown to have been prudent, prescient, smart and fiscally correct about CFM before his two years are up. My disappointment is a reflection of his past performance and how much I like watching him throw his nasty filth. It was the right move but I just don’t like it for non-logical reasons.
402
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: March 04, 2019, 12:51:42 pm »And now is being skipped in his next start (which was scheduled for tomorrow) and won't pitch again until next weekend.
The Morton (un)signing is my most disappointing Astros experience in the last 4 or 5 years. With each starting pitcher tweak and strain this spring training, it's all the more disappointing...
403
Talk Zone / Re: Recapping front office changes
« on: March 01, 2019, 04:54:18 pm »If you needed a primer on Edgartronic, Rapsodo and Yakkertech (and the Houston pipeline feeding into it), then here's an article from last week...
https://www.mlb.com/news/rapsodo-and-edgertronic-are-changing-baseball
Very good article. Worth the read.
404
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 23, 2019, 01:47:24 pm »Mmmm, free beer. Though I’d gladly trade it for Marwin being back, especially at the price the Twins got.
Really? $10.5M per? He was in integral part of very good teams but, in your estimation, is he really worth 6.5% of the payroll, especially with the extensions they are working on with Verlander and Cole? To me, the Diaz signing looks better and better, even if he only performs at 70-80% of the capacity of Gonzalez.
405
Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: February 23, 2019, 01:36:51 pm »I just came in here to post that. I sure as hell hope they don't do something stupid like limit the number of fouls per at-bat.
No kidding. Foul balls are not a problem, they are one of the compelling features of the game. A 10+ pitch at bat is entertainment gold to me. The pitcher with a “oh, got away with a mistake there” look or the hitter digging in and thinking “I just missed that, throw one more of those and I’m going to crush it”. High drama and quintessential baseball.
406
Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: February 20, 2019, 12:30:16 pm »Machado signed with San Diego. 10 years, $300 million.
The Pads will end up regretting that signing. Maybe not in the first few years but overall.
407
Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: February 08, 2019, 01:05:39 pm »I hate all this stuff. If the games are too long for you, don’t watch.
I agree. I like the length of the game, the pace of play and the challenging cerebral escape. The acute moments of action and the more demure parts as well are some of the things that makes the game enjoyable, especially when shared with friends/other fans. There's room in there to grab a beer, dissect a part of the action (both mentally and verbally), jump up and scream wildly and everything in between. Don't try to make this football or basketball. Don't pander to the 21st century micro-attention span mind. Let that 21st century mind find a home, a safe place to recover in the more thoughtful spaces and pace baseball provides.
From a business perspective, revenues, profits and values are at historical highs. What in gods name are they trying to fix?
408
Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: February 04, 2019, 02:25:00 pm »Harper is a tremendous player, but he has lived his whole life preparing to endorse expensive sports shoes.
POTW
409
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: January 24, 2019, 12:01:52 pm »
Ha. @terrypuhl21, pinch poke you owe me a coke. Or jinx. Depending on where you grew up.
410
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: January 24, 2019, 12:00:31 pm »Heyman reporting Astros/Keuchel reunion could be possible the longer Keuchel stays on market. He says the Astros still have interest in signing Dallas. Contract could be “creative.”
So, I would find a way to guarantee him $67.65M, which is the balance of the offer they gave him in 2016. Maybe $18M, $18M, $18M and a player option of $13.65M for year 4 with automatic vesting if he reaches certain performance targets in year 3 and a chance for considerably more if he meets some stretch goal targets. This 1) makes him "whole" and allows him to save face and 2) non-verbally communicates to other existing and future Astros that they are serious and fair when they make an offer to buy out the remaining years of control and arbitration.
411
Beer and Queso / Re: The Last Jedi [spoiler alert]
« on: January 17, 2019, 03:17:30 pm »The way you describe him, he's not much different from a young Han Solo. I don't see any racism/pandering in that casting, especially as Oscar Isaac was somewhat of an "it" dude at the time, coming off Inside Llewyn Davis, A Most Violent Year and Ex Machina.
Mind blown.... I never made the connection that the same Issac in Ex Machina (which I loved) was the same as Poe in SW, who was good in VII and ok in VIII. He seems so much shorter in Ex Machina. And, man, talk about a beard changing someone.
412
Talk Zone / Re: Whitley piece in The Athletic
« on: January 17, 2019, 09:43:39 am »I don't have a subscription but this makes me think I will get one. https://theathletic.com/763459/2019/01/15/behind-forrest-whitleys-transformation-into-the-astros-top-prospect/
The article is very good.
In a sea awash with them, a subscription to The Athletic is the only "print" media subscription I own. And, I don't regret it one bit.
413
Talk Zone / Re: Collin McHugh podcast
« on: January 07, 2019, 10:40:55 am »I'm about halfway through, and it's really good so far. Colin asks good questions, Lance is an engaging guest, and it's a lot more casual and free-flowing than the usual athlete interview.
Also, they mention that Verlander only drinks Keurig coffee, which makes perfect sense somehow. No mamby-pamby latte art, just give me my damn coffee as fast as possible.
I liked hearing both of them geek out about PitchingNinja. And, suggesting he should be the next guest.
414
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: January 06, 2019, 02:56:44 pm »Quote from a BP prospect writer who thinks the Mets gave up too much:
“I mean seriously if the Astros start calling you on dudes below full season A you should just hang the fuck up”
What a great compliment to the Astros organization.
415
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: January 05, 2019, 07:29:48 pm »Added Gio to the FA list...
REMAINING FREE AGENTS
Heyman's expert vs Heyman vs MLBTR vs Bowden vs Davidoff (length of contract@$AAV):
Pitchers
- Keuchel: 5@21 vs 5@19 vs [email protected] vs 4@18 vs [email protected]
- Gonzalez: 3@11 vs 3@10 vs 2@12 vs 2@11 vs N/A (#45 on spin rate list)
Eovaldi: 4@16 vs 3@15 vs 4@15 vs 3@14 vs 3@15 [Actual: 4@17]Morton: 1@17 vs [email protected] vs 2@16 vs 1@15 vs 2@18 [Actual: 2@15]Cahill: [email protected] vs 2@6 vs 2@11 vs N/A vs N/A [Actual: 1@9]- Pomeranz: 1@5 vs 1@6 vs 1@6 vs N/A vs N/A (#113 on spin rate list)
- Hellickson: 1@6 vs 1@5 vs N/A vs N/A vs N/A (#220 on spin rate list)
Richards: [email protected] vs 2@5 vs 2@5 vs N/A vs N/A [Actual: [email protected]]- Britton: 4@14 vs 4@15 vs 3@11 vs 3@14 vs 3@12
Happ: 2@13 vs 2@13 vs 3@16 vs 2@15 vs 3@16 [Actual: 2@17]Lynn: [email protected] vs 2@8 vs 2@8 vs N/A vs N/A [Actual: 3@10]
Spin rate list = out of the 228 pitches who show up on this Statcast search screen
Again, having watched him pitch, I'd take Gio at those 2 and 3 year costs over Eovaldi and definitely Keuchel at 4 or 5 years. As a matter of fact (in my own head), a Gio signing at those projected costs would take considerable sting out of the Morton loss for me. And, like @JimR, that was the most troubling Astros loss for me in a long while.
416
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: January 04, 2019, 09:38:40 pm »I agree. If the brass isn’t going to make a deal for a top starting pitcher, practically any of the remaining low end of the market free agents are probably on the table. I think at least one starter, either thru trade or fee agency, is a must. While I like our rookies, I’d like some veteran depth at the back end, just in case someone near the top end of the rotation goes down for a bit.
I would be stoked if they picked up Gonzalez. Having watched him pitch in DC, his stuff is remarkable. What always struck me is the Nats just seemed to throw him out there, relying on that stuff. He never really seemed to have a plan. It seems to me that some data-intensive guidance on 1) what to throw particular batters and 2) on what strengths he should leverage in certain situations would do him a world of good. Hallmarks of a Storm transformation...
417
Talk Zone / Re: Talk me off the ledge
« on: December 22, 2018, 02:59:54 pm »
So, the Dodgers had no interest in Bailey? I found this interesting:
"The Dodgers are expected to release Bailey, which would put them on the hook for the $23 million that the right-hander is owed in 2019, plus a $5 million buyout for 2020"
https://www.mlb.com/reds/news/reds-acquire-puig-kemp-wood-farmer/c-302138936
"The Dodgers are expected to release Bailey, which would put them on the hook for the $23 million that the right-hander is owed in 2019, plus a $5 million buyout for 2020"
https://www.mlb.com/reds/news/reds-acquire-puig-kemp-wood-farmer/c-302138936
418
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster
« on: December 19, 2018, 08:18:13 pm »I hate the internet. Gimme a good sports bar and some friends and I'm there and off this damn screen. Now, get off my lawn!!!
+1
(You see what I did there?)
This is my favorite thread of the offseason. Followed by @Nates salary and FA threads.
OWA remains the best baseball forum on the interwebs.
419
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster
« on: December 18, 2018, 03:48:16 pm »Said no one ever! Actually of all the folks in the TZ I've had the honor to hang out with, my favorites include das and Melvin in the DC area. Did I read you might move to Vermont?
Cheryl and Faith are up there full time already. I am commuting to DC each Monday morning then back to VT each Thursday evening. The Red Sox passion up there is the real deal. Very serious, knowledgeable fans. And, they have a ton of respect for the Astros and Astros fans. DC, nasomuch.
420
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster
« on: December 18, 2018, 03:35:29 pm »I just gots to be me, else I'm somebody else.
We'll take the you that you are. Always.
421
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster
« on: December 18, 2018, 10:06:21 am »Neither do I...
But if there is an order to this kind of strategem
1. Trade for Kluber/Bauer/Syndegaard type arm
What’s the general consensus around here re: who is more desirable? Kluber or Bauer?
422
Talk Zone / Re: Ex Astros News 17-18
« on: December 16, 2018, 10:51:48 am »Rockies just made their last $1.9M payment on Mike Hampton’s contract yesterday.
For two years of service in 2001 and 2002. And has not thrown a pitch in MLB in 8 years. Wow.
423
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster
« on: December 13, 2018, 08:37:18 am »I could not watch the sports news last night about his signing. They, of course, featured clips of his pitching as an Astros. I cannot remember when a player leaving the Astros affected me as much as Morton’s leaving does.
I feel the same way.
It will be interesting to see how he fares without the Astros ecosystem surrounding him. I'll be equally interested to see how the front office staff that other orgs have imported fare as well. High performing organizations are rarely a person or two but an entire ecosystem. I'm wondering if the parts that are being enticed away (players and staff) regress to the mean and the Astros ecosystem maintains their high performing nature. Or if the opposite happens.
424
Talk Zone / Re: Tucker article in Chronicle
« on: December 12, 2018, 03:47:24 pm »Looking back, sure. Thats only because we know bregman turned it around from there. How do you know a similar turn around isn't coming soon? You don't.
Heres a few more similarities
RBI - both had 4.
Extra base hits Bregman had 4 doubles, Tucker had 2 doubles and a triple.
Homers both had zero.
Walks, Bregman had 7, Tucker 6.
Ks, Bregman 17, Tucker 13.
Slash line
Bregman, .156/.236/.219
Tucker, .141/.236/.203
Edit: not even close though.
The numbers don't tell the story, though. Bregman was hitting frozen ropes right at people. So much so that Hinch and the players were laughing about it and patting him on the back as he dejectedly walked back into the dugout after each AB. Tucker had massive holes in his loopy swing and the MLB pitchers were often making him look silly at the plate exploiting his immaturity. Those numbers just don't communicate what was going on in actuality on the field.
425
Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel
« on: December 12, 2018, 03:32:55 pm »He started a career-high 34 games in 2018.
...and, 200+ innings. Although, since it was a walk year, I'm sure he would have pitched until his arm fell off to make that number.
I was thinking about him a bit yesterday. I'm not convinced that his performance last year was decreasing control. He lives (and dies) at the bottom of the zone so much and his big bump and BAA and # of hits (highest in all of the AL last year) can probably be explained away by him coming up (and ever so slightly in) in the zone. His heat maps are not representative of someone loosing control (overall diameter increase, significant increase in core diameter) but instead shows a tightening of the core. Instead, they indicate an intentionality to go a bit up and in. I'm wondering if this is 1) because he's lost the bottom of the zone to the umps (no longer getting the benefit of the doubt 3 years removed from his Cy campaign) and 2) trying to jam the uppercut swingers inside. He did a good job on #2 but the soft contact dribblers generated by #1 were death by 1,000 cuts.
426
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster
« on: December 12, 2018, 03:06:10 pm »Jeff Passan @JeffPassan 46s
Free agent starter Charlie Morton and the Tampa Bay Rays have agreed to a two-year, $30 million deal, sources told Yahoo Sports.
From accompanying article:
I think it was lingering concerns over the shoulder as to why the Astros didn't re-sign him.
Grrrrr. Darn.
427
Talk Zone / Re: ‘86 NLCS
« on: December 10, 2018, 10:23:01 am »I listened to game 6 on the radio. Never seen the video.
Me too.
I don't think I could stomach it.
428
Talk Zone / Re: Shift-Banning Proposal Gaining Momentum
« on: December 10, 2018, 10:17:08 am »Reid Ryan was on MLB Network Radio on Sunday. He pretty much said that baseball needs to give fans what they want, whatever they want. So if fans want more offense, then MLB should do what they can do. He was also very supportive of the pitch clock and the extra innings rule that puts a runner on second.
We see this in the tech business sometimes. CX/UX run amok. The notion of giving people what/anything they want leads to horrible customer experiences. "I want salty, greasy food delivered to my laz-y-boy 3 meals a day and chocolate cake for my two snacks" leads to poor outcomes. Because, you know, the customer dies pretty quick.
A very valuable part of good CX/UX is letting the product experts have a viable voice in the product construction and delivery. Without that expertise to compliment customer desires, you get descending gibberish for a product.
Edited to add; all you have to do is look at contemporary news outlets to see a good analog of this progression.
429
Talk Zone / Re: Shift-Banning Proposal Gaining Momentum
« on: December 08, 2018, 12:58:23 pm »Speaking of rules, was chatting with someone who thinks there a possibility of some tech getting introduced into the game. As in a way for pitchers and catchers to communicate without having to worry about other teams stealing signs.
She said that all teams are using tech to steal signs. It’s becoming a real issue. She said at least one of Maldanados passed balls In the playoffs was due to a cross up, because the signs have become so ridiculous due to knowing other teams are using new means to steal signs.
Said it could well be addressed at the winter meetings. Had this conversation about a month ago, but hadn’t heard or read anything about that since.
Verlander mentioned it around a month ago as well. He used the NFL quarterback analogy. Said it would make the game safer (crossups), shorten the game (less mound visits) and would help stop the spying shenanigans.
430
Talk Zone / Re: Awards 2018
« on: November 29, 2018, 02:08:36 pm »Baseball America @BaseballAmerica 1h ago
After overseeing an impressive @astros pitching staff, Brent Strom is our MLB Coach of the Year. This is a new award that BA has created.
Very impressive. What an honor fro Strom. And, good for BA for creating the category.
Also makes him even more of a target for other teams to nab and promote to a elevated position.
431
Talk Zone / Re: Oakland Stadium Plans
« on: November 29, 2018, 02:06:24 pm »Apparently this is what the A's are thinking for a new downtown ballpark. It is a little different. https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/matier-ross/article/A-s-propose-jewel-box-ballpark-for-13426272.php?utm_campaign=twitter-premium&utm_source=CMS%20Sharing%20Button&utm_medium=social
Love this. And, it's the right size for the fan base they have. A well constructed revitalization plan, where local citizens are included at the ideation phase, can transform an area. The SW Waterfront here in DC is a sight to behold and has become a massive economic engine for the District.
432
Beer and Queso / Re: Vietnam Veterans
« on: November 26, 2018, 11:18:21 pm »I have nearly completed Ken Burns' highly touted documentary "The Vietnam War". I'm through episode 7, which brings me up to May 1969. It's an amazing piece of work. What a damning indictment of short-sighted (and, in one case, treasonous) leadership; what an amazing testament to the bravery of regular people. What a complete and utter tragedy for anyone caught up in it.
I just finished all 10 episodes. When I got to episode 6 and 7, I had to stop and ask my dad about a couple of facts (his second tour there was as a ranger company commander in and around Hue during the Tet Offensive) and we proceeded to talk about his time there over the phone for the next 4 hours. That’s what I appreciated the most about the documentary; it allowed me to have a thoughtful, informed discussion with my dad that provided the foundation for transparency about that time unlike any he and I had shared previously.
433
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster
« on: November 06, 2018, 01:15:45 pm »I don't want to even *think* about "testicular torsion surgery".
If I had testicular torsion, I'd be inclined to get the surgery right away. Yikes.
434
Talk Zone / Re: Recapping front office changes
« on: November 01, 2018, 07:30:53 am »Bullpen coach Doug White joins Brad Ausmus' staff in LAA as pitching coach. Like Jeff Albert, White had long-time ties to Luhnow going back to their days in the Cardinals organization.
https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2018/10/angels-hire-doug-white-as-pitching-coach.html
I'm wondering if the undoing of this team will have nothing to do with the players and instead will be due to the brain drain of thought leadership. 1) because it's hard to replace and 2) because that talent moving to other teams elevates their capabilities in this regard and levels the playing field.
435
Beer and Queso / Re: Nor’Easter
« on: October 31, 2018, 10:51:35 am »You don't have to shovel heat.
You can always put more clothes on. You can only take so much off.....
436
Beer and Queso / Re: Nor’Easter
« on: October 30, 2018, 11:31:14 am »I experience one in Quebec City my last day and night there. Holyfuckingshit. You have never seen such wind. Not in gusts either; the wind blew for hours without letting up.
Nor'Easters are not to be trifled with and, even a glancing blow like you received in Quebec can deliver quite a wallop. It's hard to fathom for most but the most powerful nor'easters are up to 4 times as powerful as even the most powerful hurricanes.
https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2014/03/26/294923074/massive-noreaster-rakes-new-england
437
Talk Zone / Re: The Void
« on: October 29, 2018, 09:50:00 am »
The Void sucks.
It sucks just a little less with Nate's pinned Important Dates 2018-2019 Offseason thread to carry us thru.
http://www.orangewhoopass.com/forums/index.php?topic=120565.msg640055#new
It sucks just a little less with Nate's pinned Important Dates 2018-2019 Offseason thread to carry us thru.
http://www.orangewhoopass.com/forums/index.php?topic=120565.msg640055#new
438
Talk Zone / Re: Recapping front office changes
« on: October 25, 2018, 10:51:59 am »The overlap between the Bus Ride and the Talk Zone can be annoying at times.
Here I thought I had scooped @nate. Silly me.
439
Talk Zone / Re: Recapping front office changes
« on: October 25, 2018, 07:43:33 am »
Josh Bonifay, Astros’ minor-league field coordinator going to to the Phillies to be their Director of Player Development:
https://theathletic.com/611291/2018/10/24/phillies-mine-houstons-successful-system-for-their-next-farm-director-josh-bonifay/
https://theathletic.com/611291/2018/10/24/phillies-mine-houstons-successful-system-for-their-next-farm-director-josh-bonifay/
440
Beer and Queso / Re: New Android Phone
« on: October 24, 2018, 04:02:45 pm »
I've never bought a new iPhone. I instead buy a used unit, usually less than a year old, whose initial hit of depreciation was taken by some stupid apple fanboy(or girl) that absolutely had to have the S or next version of the phone because they'd just absolutely die if they didn't have the latest apple product. I typically get a 60-70% discount off of list and have never had a problem.
441
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster
« on: October 20, 2018, 02:28:14 pm »
The most important addition to this lineup for 2019 is a healthy Correa and Altuve (and a full season of Springer).
I want Marwin back. His mid-course correction this season was a beautiful thing to watch. They stopped throwing him fastballs and, he eventually started hitting the breaking stuff which made them start to throw fastballs again.
Maldanodo is a curiosity. Great at mowing down base stealers and forcing small leads but he seemed confused by the complex sign protocol, leading to a bunch of cross ups and passed balls. No wonder Verlander wants a technology solution.
I want Marwin back. His mid-course correction this season was a beautiful thing to watch. They stopped throwing him fastballs and, he eventually started hitting the breaking stuff which made them start to throw fastballs again.
Maldanodo is a curiosity. Great at mowing down base stealers and forcing small leads but he seemed confused by the complex sign protocol, leading to a bunch of cross ups and passed balls. No wonder Verlander wants a technology solution.
443
Talk Zone / Re: Frito Pie
« on: October 19, 2018, 08:52:49 am »Ate it last night before the game. Never doing that again. Frito pie has lost it's mojo. Got to find where it went.
You should know some time this morning.
444
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 10:00:29 pm »
Not in the air, HH, but that will do!!!!!
445
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:56:23 pm »Offspeed inside and Correa may get to drive one to left
100mph inside is not offspeed....
446
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:55:41 pm »
Is Kelly twitching his right eye comms with the cacher or just a tick?
447
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:53:40 pm »
Reddick does not flinch on balls out of the zone.
448
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:44:26 pm »
James out for 6, I hope.
449
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:43:22 pm »
It's a slobaknocka'...
450
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:40:16 pm »
Clearly out.
451
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:39:59 pm »
I can't believe it's only T5.
452
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:26:10 pm »How long do you go with James?
One more, at least.
453
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:18:28 pm »
Machete!!!!
454
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:16:10 pm »
Horrible call on the foul tip.
455
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:15:12 pm »
Gotta come with the heat here.
456
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:12:17 pm »
102mph last inning for James? Wow.
457
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:10:24 pm »
I love the slo mo cut at the break of Springer saying "frickin' yeah" as he goes to first base on the homer.
458
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:08:06 pm »Correa hasn’t pulled a ball in two months, has he?
He's still trying to go oppo.
459
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:06:59 pm »
Reddick + gimpy Altuve = Awesome!!!!!
460
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 09:02:07 pm »461
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:40:30 pm »
Beautiful deuce by CFM.
462
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:37:58 pm »I thought it was gone.
It was. Hit the yellow. No idea why the Sox did not check.
463
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:27:21 pm »
Horrible bunt, Machete.
464
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:26:26 pm »
Good call by Pettis! Knowing the opposition.
465
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:25:11 pm »
Hinch looks pissed.
466
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:23:17 pm »Morton's command leaves something to be desired.
Not pitched in a while. Give him time to get the feel.
And, Reddick!!, btw...
467
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:08:17 pm »
Joe West needs to not chew gum.
468
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:04:32 pm »
Tough to overturn tho.
469
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 08:03:14 pm »
Wow re: Betts. But, the fan did not reach over the wall.
470
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 07:38:19 pm »I just do it manually. Figure out which one is ahead, and then pause it for the appropriate amount of time. I'll have the radio guys on my computer and mute the TV.
Thanks. Doing that now.....
471
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 07:34:41 pm »
Is there a way to sync up the astros radio broadcast with the infernal TBS video?
472
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 07:33:20 pm »
Sinker? CFM does not throw a sinker. It's a 2-seamer with somewhat similar motion. What mo-rons....
473
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #4: Red Sox @ Astros October 17, 2018
« on: October 17, 2018, 07:31:02 pm »God, these guys are morons.
Why is Pedro talking about Morton and they're showing ancient Pedro footage?
475
Game Zone 2018 / Re: ALCS Game #1: Astros @ Red Sox, October 13, 2018
« on: October 13, 2018, 04:17:14 pm »Astros
Springer CF
Altuve 2B
Bregman 3B
Gurriel 1B
White DH
Gonzalez LF
Correa SS
Maldonado C
Reddick RF
Verlander, P
Red Sox
I'm nervous. Working on cars (replacing the oil pan on a 2010 Audi A3 Sportback), drinking some Fiddlehead (http://www.fiddleheadbrewing.com/) and listening to the Dodgers/Brewers game as a primer. Man, the Dodgers radio team is horrible. Such a tremendous drop off from Scully.
476
Talk Zone / Re: Frito Pie
« on: October 12, 2018, 11:07:44 am »This diarrhea sludge... Was this before or after you ate it?
The obvious answer, of course, is both. Just doing my part for the team.....
477
Talk Zone / Re: Frito Pie
« on: October 12, 2018, 10:31:25 am »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 last frito pie "chili" came squirting from a whirring, clicking chili (and cheese goop) dispenser at 7-11 a block from work because, you know, early afternoon game time starts during the work week... There were no beans. Or ground beef. Or tomatoes. So, I think the diarrhea sludge was surprisingly compliant with the OWA TZ definition of chili.
478
Tank Commander
I thought of the 'ole Iraqi Tank Commander when I read this article today.
https://theathletic.com/585408/2018/10/12/rosenthal-get-ready-for-managerial-chess-matches-unlike-any-other-in-postseason-history/?source=dailyemail
479
Talk Zone / Re: Frito Pie
« on: October 12, 2018, 09:41:08 am »Of course we aren’t. Cubed beef, chiles, beef fat, water, masa, salt, pepper. That’s it. No beans. No tomatoes. No cinnamon. No spaghetti. No zucchini.
What about over rice? I like chili over rice sometimes. Over elbow noodles occasionally too. Over spaghetti is an abomination with those noodles flopping all over the place and splattering precious chili on your shirt. How about if you throw in some green peppers in along with the chiles? They're both in the pepper group. I had a beefalo chili once. Pretty good although the beef(alo) was a bit too lean. i assume chili over fritos is ok since that is a classic frito pie and a key ingredient is chili. How about dipping scoops fritos into chili? What about crunching fritos up in your chili, as I've seen before. It's basically rough-ground masa. Still chili?
480
Talk Zone / Re: Notable Postseason stats for Springer & Bregman
« on: October 11, 2018, 01:50:04 pm »I just hope the Astros give it their best and the Good Lord willing things will work out.
I hope the Astros beat the snot out of the Redsox and then do the same to whoever represents the NL in the WS.
481
Talk Zone / Re: Postseason roster questions
« on: October 10, 2018, 06:20:15 pm »I may be wrong, but I think that may have been his audition for the next round.
This.
I would have liked to see James there. What a thrill that would have been for him. And a great “thank you” for an excellent year.
483
Bases juiced in the bottom of the 9th, 1 out.
Wow, what a meltdown by Kimbrell
486
Talk Zone / Re: Frito Pie
« on: October 05, 2018, 11:58:18 am »That's easy, the closest one...
Beat me to the punchline.
487
Talk Zone / Re: Pretty Damn Good article about a Pretty Damn Good Baseball Game (Game 5)
« on: October 04, 2018, 06:47:17 pm »
That was a great read. How fun.
488
Talk Zone / Re: Frito Pie
« on: October 04, 2018, 02:11:10 pm »
I like chili. I like eating chili over Fritos with a little sharp cheddar sprinkled on top in the vicinity of an Astros playoff game.
489
Talk Zone / Re: AL Wild Card
« on: October 03, 2018, 07:39:13 pm »
Severino is getting frustrated. Good.
490
Talk Zone / Re: AL Wild Card
« on: October 03, 2018, 07:30:51 pm »
That Khris Davis HR spray chart was cool.
491
Talk Zone / Re: AL Wild Card
« on: October 03, 2018, 07:27:26 pm »If you thought that the Cubs fans were insufferable...
“Whoooooooaaaaaaaaaaaa” on a pop fly to shallow center.
492
Talk Zone / Re: AL Wild Card
« on: October 03, 2018, 07:25:36 pm »Fiers or Edwin Jackson were the other options I think.
Good thing the A’s are known for their offense.
493
Talk Zone / Re: AL Wild Card
« on: October 03, 2018, 07:24:06 pm »This is a craptastic start. Why start a guy with a 4+ ERA in a win or go home game? Terrible decision imo
116mph off the bat. oMG.
494
Talk Zone / Re: AL Wild Card
« on: October 03, 2018, 07:16:17 pm »
Wow, this is Stanton’s first post season appearance.
495
They over extended the franchise, lost me after 5.
This made me LOL.
So, my wife walks in on me watching one of the Sharknado movies and quizzically asks, “WTF?” (which, for the some of you that have met her is funny in it own right) and I simply reply, “I’m a meteorologist”. She walked out without saying a word.
496
Talk Zone / Re: AL Wild Card
« on: October 03, 2018, 06:54:40 pm »The pregame chit-chat has started on ESPN. And who are they talking about??? … Jeter, of course. So what about the that alternate channel I heard about?
I thought it was going to be on TBS. I’d try there.
I’m glad we have a GameZone-ish thread for this game like the NL thread from last night. Makes watching the game that much more enjoyable.
Is there a single Astros fan out there that would prefer the Yankees to win over the A’s? Even one?
497
Talk Zone / Re: The National League
« on: October 02, 2018, 09:36:40 pm »
Is there a single Astros fan in the history of ever that wants the Cubs to win here?
Sweet K.
Sweet K.
498
Talk Zone / Re: The National League
« on: October 02, 2018, 09:34:48 pm »Butera's a fucking butcher back there.
Stabbing forward at the ball.
499
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS schedule
« on: October 02, 2018, 01:55:58 pm »No surprises but the Astros announced Verlander, Cole, and Keuchel will pitch games 1, 2 and 3, respectively.
I just read that and got butterflies in my stomach. I hate that there is still three days until game time.
500
Game Zone 2018 / Re: Astros @ Orioles, Regular Season Finale
« on: September 30, 2018, 03:32:09 pm »Yikes, what happened with Peacock?
He was feeling magnanimous and decided to give his playoff share to Josh James.