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Messages - Bench

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1
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: December 02, 2019, 08:58:52 am »
Several months ago some former journeyman ballplayer was taking questions on twitter and someone asked him who his least favorite teammate was. He immediately responded something like "Aubrey Huff, no question about it." The sentiment was echoed by many and of course Huff came in threatening the original ballplayer who was "too much of a coward to @ me."

2
Talk Zone / Re: 2020 Hall of Fame
« on: November 25, 2019, 01:41:54 pm »
Yeah Jeets!

3

Drive to the Old Tunnel WMA, watch the bats come out (if they're still there this late), eat at Alamo Springs and go have beers at Luckenbach/Albert/Bankersmith


This is a terrific suggestion.

I'll echo Hondo's if you want some drinks and to listen to some music. Silver Creek can scratch that itch too. If you want Tex-Mex, Hilda's is good.

4
The Navajo Grill in Fredericksburg is great for a nice night out.

5
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 20, 2019, 02:52:33 pm »
Also, it has to sting the Republicans that Schiff gets to rip everyone a new one to conclude every day. Elections have consequences.

These hearings wouldn't even be happening if the Democrats didn't take the house.

8
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 20, 2019, 10:55:59 am »
I was only slightly being tongue in cheek.

The man is a parody of a self-parody.

9
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 20, 2019, 10:46:30 am »
[Trump probably] Never heard of him. [/Trump probably]

Trump actually just a few minutes ago: “I don’t know him very well. I have not spoken to him much. This is not a man I know well. He seems like a nice guy though.”

10
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 20, 2019, 10:25:26 am »
One of the many remarkable things about Sondland's testimony is that Trump wanted the Ukrainian president to announce the investigations, but didn't really care if the investigations actually commenced. The notion that Trump of all people gave a rat's ass about addressing corruption in Ukraine was always laughable, but this testimony establishes corrupt intent pretty clearly.

11
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 20, 2019, 09:44:30 am »
Sondland just torched the entire administration.

12
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 18, 2019, 02:07:43 pm »
Advancement in wireless connectivity and camera technology is such that It would be pretty easy to be able to set up a tiny discretely concealed spy cam that could be monitored on a tablet or phone. That is how any savvy up-to-date tech would set it up. And it would be virtually non-detectable and fool proof. Hell, you could signal the batter with a mild electric shock or vibration of a bracelet or neck chain or behind some tape or in a sock. No need to fuck with an audible signal.  It is silly that such a forward thinking team would choose to tap into the network feed from the CF cam and watch it in the tunnel while sitting two feet from a 36 inch monitor. In fact the same monitor they used to watch replays on.

You're ahead of the curve. NY Post:In recent days I have had scouts and executives talk to me about a variety of methods they think have been or could be employed, such as a realistic-looking electronic bandage placed on a player’s body that buzzes in real time to signal what is coming — one buzz for a fastball, for example — if the surveillance determines what type of pitching is coming. One person I spoke to has ties to the Astros and said he already had spoken to MLB’s investigators.

13
Beer and Queso / Re: For All Mankind
« on: November 17, 2019, 11:48:21 am »
Even better than The Expanse?

Tell me you've watched The Expanse.

I'm enjoying the books (currently reading the fifth one Nemesis Games). But I haven't watched the show. Is it a good companion or should I pick it up once I'm done with the novels?

14
Talk Zone / Re: Awards
« on: November 15, 2019, 11:09:06 am »
His playing every day should have been taken more seriously in my opinion. Value is greatly diminished on the DL.

GP is a pretty important stat.

15
Talk Zone / Re: Signal stealing haiku
« on: November 15, 2019, 09:00:55 am »
Everyone does it
Single us out, oh cruel world!
Guilty. True. Bullshit.

16
Talk Zone / Re: Awards
« on: November 14, 2019, 05:51:04 pm »
Trout mvp

The same vote as JV/Cole. 17 first place to 13.

17
Talk Zone / Re: Awards
« on: November 13, 2019, 05:54:34 pm »
Verlander got 17 first place votes and Cole got the other 13.

18
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 13, 2019, 01:35:08 pm »
Yes, the MLB contract structure cheats the players, but only Springer is singled out to play this generation’s Curt Flood. Were he clad in BoSox or pinstripes, this fantasy piece would not exist

Man this martyrdom complex is amazing.

19
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 13, 2019, 10:24:44 am »
unless I'm missing something, it wasn't illegal in 2017.  WFW.


I thought using technology to steal signs was always against the rules, and the new rules regarding camera placement and usage this year were just put in place to shore up prevention.

20
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 13, 2019, 09:44:08 am »
On a completely unrelated note, I almost got suspended in high school for arguing about whether or not Sidney Carton and Charles Darnay were doppelgangers.  My teacher argued that they must have been identical looking, otherwise Carton could not have taken Darnay's place at the guillotine.  I argued that all that mattered is that someone's head rolled, and whose it was wasn't particularly important....that blood cleansing was the point, not justice.

Isn't there a whole part where Carton is looking up at the ceiling so people can't get a look at his face when Darnay catches a reflection that reveals a spitting image?

21
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 12, 2019, 03:44:12 pm »
Rosenthal reports a statement from the Astros: “Regarding the story posted by The Athletic earlier today, the Houston Astros organization has begun an investigation in cooperation with Major League Baseball. It would not be appropriate to comment further on this matter at this time.”

They've come a long way from responding with a unfounded character assassination.

22
Talk Zone / Re: Reid Ryan phasing out
« on: November 08, 2019, 03:31:33 pm »
My understanding is that crane the younger is involved with a lot of Crane the senior’s businesses with the obvious intent of passing the torch.

And I join the chorus of many who chuckle at the indignation about nepotism in defense of Reid Ryan. 

23
Talk Zone / Re: An Astro meets a President
« on: November 07, 2019, 07:03:03 am »
Did he get his breasts caressed like Suzuki did?

24
Talk Zone / Re: The Void (transacations)
« on: November 06, 2019, 09:55:16 am »
Don't clubs get to see medicals on guys before consummating a deal? Not being a wise-guy, I'm just not really sure. I thought that was part of the process?

Of course they do. He was healthy enough to fire 6 no hit innings in his first start with the Astros.

25
Talk Zone / Re: The Void (transacations)
« on: November 05, 2019, 05:38:52 pm »
I see the 2020 rotation as
Verlander
Greinke
McCullers
Sanchez
Urquidy/Valdez/James/FA

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

I'd put Urquidy well over Sanchez. Sanchez might even get non-tendered.

26
Talk Zone / The Void (transacations)
« on: November 04, 2019, 05:36:39 pm »
Free Agents:
RHP Gerrit Cole
RHP Will Harris
C Robinson Chirinos
C Martín Maldonado
LHP Wade Miley
RHP Joe Smith
RHP Collin McHugh
RHP Héctor Rondón

Astros made a Qualifying Offer to Cole.

Declined Devo's $2.825 million club option (though he remains arbitration eligible)

Selected the contract of ML LHP Kent Emanuel, keeping him off the minor league free agent market.

Currently 34 players on the 40 man roster.

27
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: November 01, 2019, 03:33:24 pm »
The Mets are hiring Carlos Beltran to be their manager.

28
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: November 01, 2019, 10:43:17 am »
Watching from the stands, I was sure until the moment it was signaled out that he was going to miss it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

6 inches in a variety of different directions and its a whole new ballgame.

29
Talk Zone / Re: Kendrick
« on: November 01, 2019, 08:47:43 am »
I checked out his spray chart.

Zero homers to dead RF this season.  The furthest right prior to that would have been about where the bullpen fence meets the RF wall.
 
https://www.fangraphs.com/spraycharts.aspx?playerid=4229&position=2B&type=battedball

Lightning in a bottle.

I read somewhere that Kendrick had never hit such a ball in the air at all and, when making contact, always pounded that directly into the ground. Also, in his career Harris has never given up a home run on that pitch.

It reminded me of Marwin's game 2 shot off Jansen.

30
Talk Zone / Re: Cole and Game 5
« on: October 31, 2019, 02:22:43 pm »
Here's the Chronicle's clubhouse story:

https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/astros/article/Astros-insider-Scenes-of-heartbreak-and-Cole-14610152.php

The Cole quotes:

But Cole held his glare. He was not kidding.
“I mean, I'm not employed,” Cole said. “I’m not employed.”
“We would like for you to do it, but it’s your call,” Dias said.
Cole grudgingly obliged and said: “All right, as an affiliate of myself.”

“A lot of good friendships,” he said. “Learned a lot about pitching from my teammates, from my pitching coaches and staff, learned a lot more about the game from A.J., and it was just a pleasure to play in the city of Houston.”

“The group is so unique,” Cole said. “I'm gonna have some friends from this clubhouse for the rest of my life. You just don’t take situations like that for granted.”

31
Talk Zone / Re: Tipping pitches
« on: October 30, 2019, 09:22:19 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.

32
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 06:06:47 pm »
LEETTTT'SSS  GOOOOOOOOOOOO!

33
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 04:46:34 pm »
Nationals are saying Max Scherzer could pitch in a potential Game 7 as long as his neck will let him.

Specifically Martinez said “he’ll pitch until his neck doesn’t allow him to anymore.” I think it's safe to say he would be starting.

Suzuki would be back as well for a game 7, which means there's no backup catcher tonight for the nats.

34
Beer and Queso / Re: El Real
« on: October 28, 2019, 11:46:40 am »
Caswell sounds like a mess. Meanwhile the former staff is picketing out front demanding owed wages.

I always liked that place. Glad I grabbed lunch there a few weeks back.

35
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 28, 2019, 10:55:15 am »
Just very odd for all of the five games to have gone to the visitor.

It's only the third time that's ever happened. 1906 (White Sox came back against the Cubs - though they alternated home/visitor each game) and 1996 (Yankees came back against the Braves). The home team won game 6 on both occasions to win the World Series.

36
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 09:45:31 pm »
The fact they went back to Bregman again after the grand slam has got to be infuriating to him.

37
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 08:09:54 pm »
That's the website most use to get that data


I know. Just taking liberties with literalism.

38
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 08:07:28 pm »
Baseball savant


Is that a reference or are you mocking him?

39
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 04:50:41 pm »
Scherzer being hurt is a bummer. It's fun to see the teams go toe to toe with their best guys, but introducing an element of chaos in this already wildly unpredictable series is certainly par for the course.

40
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 27, 2019, 12:28:05 pm »
Yesterday Crane sent a letter to Apstein apologizing to her and officially retracting the original bullshit statement.

“On behalf of the entire Astros organization, I want to personally apologize for the statement we issued on Monday October 21st,” Crane wrote. “We were wrong and I am sorry that we initially questioned your professionalism. We retract that statement, and I assure you that the Houston Astros will learn from this experience.”

41
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 06:16:33 pm »

No surprise, Corbin has been especially tough on lefties this year.  I'm sure we'll see Diaz pinch hitting tonight, probably early.

If Corbin is still in Grienke should pinch hit.

42
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 04:36:55 pm »
I hope Jake brought his khakis.

Chandler Rome notes that Jake is a career 4-for-5 against Corbin.

43
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 03:54:31 pm »
Marisnick in center, Springer in right tonight.

44
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: October 25, 2019, 04:00:53 pm »
Reddick is starting and hitting 7th. Chirinos 8th.

45
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 25, 2019, 09:02:00 am »
This whole thing still seems bizarre to me.  Could he have been the point man on the Osuna deal?  Taking the fallout personally and dealing with it in such an immature fashion would fit that to me.

My understanding is that he was central to putting together the Osuna deal and that was one of the achievements that sent him quickly up the chain in the organization.

46
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 24, 2019, 03:44:52 pm »
Luhnow will address the media at 5:15 CT

47
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 24, 2019, 03:41:38 pm »
"We were wrong. We sincerely apologize..."

Better late than never.

48
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 2, October 23, 2019
« on: October 24, 2019, 10:54:32 am »
8 - 63 (.113) w/ RISP since ALCS Game 1.


49
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 24, 2019, 10:34:23 am »
Truthfully, I'm more annoyed that the Astros have started doing that light show for home runs that the Rangers and Yankees do.  Cool when your team has/gets the lead, I guess, but fucking ridiculous when you're down by 10 in the 9th.

Yeah. It's not a very cool effect during the best of times but I half expected them not to flip that switch when Machete went deep.

50
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 23, 2019, 01:33:42 pm »
The PR folks aren't on the frontline in this.  Taubman certainly is.  I think he'll end up gone.

The more I think about what Luhnow said in the interview the more it seems clear to me he's too close to see what's happening.  Worrying about intent of the statement is well past its expiration date.  The narrative has now been written.  As there really is no absolute way to know what anyone is thinking there's no way he can alter the narrative without the accusers first retracting.  That's not happening.  For now and likely a long time into the future Taubman is a misogynist douche bag whether that's really true or not.  I can't see any other baseball org hiring or recruiting him.  As long as he's employed "the media" as well as a lot of other public figures (I'm a bit surprised some of the local politicians haven't come out on this yet) will caveat all things Astros as the domestic violence enabling organization.  At some point MLB I would imagine will lay that kind of reality at Crane's feet.

It's insane that Luhnow thinks intent is at all relevant while at the same times acknowledging that the comments were inappropriate.

51
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 23, 2019, 11:45:14 am »
Luhnow's turn to step on a rake: “What we really don’t know is the intent behind the inappropriate comments he made. We may never know that because the person who said them and the people who heard them, at least up to this point, have different perspectives.”

What the fuck is wrong with them?

52
Meanwhile, republican members of the house have disrupted the testimony of DOD official Laura Cooper by  storming the secure room in which it is taking place.

Only committee members are authorized to attend the deposition. Some of the unauthorized republicans brought their phones, which aren't allowed in the secure room so now a security sweep needs to be performed before the deposition can be resumed.

House republican classic two-step: (1) impeding investigations (2) endangering national security while doing so.

53
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 23, 2019, 11:33:58 am »
In more fun Game 1 news, Springer's homer marked the 5th consecutive World Series game in which he has hit a homerun, breaking the previous record of 4 shared by him, Reggie Jackson and Lou Gehrig.

54
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 23, 2019, 11:20:56 am »
Also, "those that know me know I am a progressive" sure sounds a lot like "I'm not racist, I have black friends".

Doubt there will be any more statements though.

He's probably related to a woman.

55
Talk Zone / Re: WS parking or metrorail
« on: October 23, 2019, 08:59:02 am »
I'm having an early dinner at Ninfa's on Navigation and using their shuttle to get to the game and back.

56
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 22, 2019, 05:21:39 pm »
NPR’s David Folkenflik added this:

I know of one reporter well known to the Astros that tweeted out the DV hotline number every time Osuna appeared last year, and that is one Alyson Footer.



Fuck him for harassing any reporter but there's a special place in hell for him if he was going after Footer.

57
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 22, 2019, 02:01:09 pm »
Luhnow needs to get out in front of this tomorrow, immediately. But he'll probably end up saying that Taubman's transgressions are really ultimately a net positive since they'll help to raise awareness.

Crane has that one covered. Called it.

58
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 10:59:32 am »
Harris is going to have his work cut out for him this series. Not only has he been the most reliable fireman, he's the reliever who matches up most favorably against Soto. I have a feeling that whether it's in the 7th, 8th or 9th, he's going to be the guy to have to beat Rendon and Soto multiple times this series, which is no easy task.

59
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 10:56:57 am »
They do not have a deep staff, but the ones who pitch are good. I hope the bats reappear.

Definitely. Quieting the Astros bats and being able to lean on their top 6 pitchers is the Nats' clearest path to victory.

They only carried 11 pitchers in the NLCS.

60
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 10:48:29 am »
Corbin joining the pen for tonight's game says a lot.

Yeah. They haven't hesitated using Scherzer and Strasbourg in relief roles this October either.

61
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 22, 2019, 10:45:57 am »
Anybody have insight on the strength of Washington's pen?

Hudson
Doolittle
.
.
.
Rainey
Rodney
.
.
.
.
Everyone else.

6 pitchers have comprised 90% of the Nationals' postseason innings: The four starters + Hudson and Doolittle.

62
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 22, 2019, 09:54:44 am »
A breathtakingly stupid incident by Taubman followed by a monumentally stupid response by the Astros.

63
Talk Zone / Re: WS Rotation
« on: October 21, 2019, 06:23:27 pm »
Sorry if this cabrera’d, but have the rosters been announced?  Is Pressly in?  Also curious if Straw might make it.

Rosters announced tomorrow.

64
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 21, 2019, 09:03:33 am »
Sounds like Pressly is fine.

One of the perks of winning in 6 is that Grienke will pitch game 3 in the NL park.  Might be an improvement from the DH spot in the lineup.


66
Talk Zone / Re: Rotation Games 4.5.6.7
« on: October 18, 2019, 10:28:51 pm »
It's a bullpen game for both teams. Severino v Cole if there's a game 7.

67
Talk Zone / Re: Greinke
« on: October 18, 2019, 09:47:58 am »
I'm sure the intent of the question was more like "does having a lead change your approach out there at all, and if so, how?"  But it was awkwardly worded.

But also I think a lot of times sports reports lob softballs like that just to give the player a chance to talk about the game however he wants. That was certainly the case with the question to Desaun Watson that made the rounds a few weeks ago. Ask a fairly obvious question, and Watson gave a very insightful and informative response.

68
Need three outs.  Osuna back in to get them.

69
Smoltz saying Bergman’s versatility during the season should count in MVP voting.

He's right.

70
Radio says Urquidy is warming.

It would need to be a 7 run lead for that to happen.

71
Sanchez with another PB

72
Bring in someone other than Osuna for the 9th?

Who? Peacock? Rondon? Abreu?

Maybe if Bregman parks one here.

73
He did it in game 2.

It wasn't cold and windy then.

He can do it. He has done it. But he's also struggled doing it.

74
Four outs from Osuna seems to be asking a lot.

75
 Bregs has not had the most auspicious game, double and run scored notwithstanding.

76
I’m pretty sure he can be replaced on the playoff roster if he’s injured. If so, CC would then also be ineligible to play in the next series, if the team advances.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That is the rule.

Pretty badass of Smith to come in and K a lefty

77
They've improved their BA w/ RISP tonight, but still a fuck ton of lobsters.

78
The normally well above average Yankees infield defense has been shockingly horrible.

79
Sure would be nice to have another Weaver special here.

80
I don't see why not. Short rope, of course.

There's no off day for the rest of series, no matter how long it lasts. May want to save those pitches.

81
Harris in to face 3-4-5

82
Sparky says that tonight is the 6th postseason game in which both Springer and Correa hit home runs, which is the most of any duo of teammates ever.

83
Way to bear down Josh James!

84
God dammit.

85
The Trump Administration is now pursuing the curious political strategy of publicly admitting to crimes.

It's not a crime if nobody does anything about it.

86

Love these three run homers...


According to modern advanced analytics, Earl Weaver was really on to something.

87
Big exhale followed by big gulp of alcohol.

88
Talk Zone / Re: Tipping pitches
« on: October 16, 2019, 05:09:46 pm »
You'd think if they were stealing signs in Game 1 it would have done them more good.

Three goddamn hits? That's all we got?

89
Talk Zone / Re: Tipping pitches
« on: October 16, 2019, 04:26:10 pm »
Sources: Yankees dugout erupts over Astros' alleged sign stealing

Yankees players and coaches became angry with the Astros during Game 1 of the ALCS when they noticed a whistling sound in the Astros' dugout -- which they believed was an over-the-line example of sign stealing, and a violation of the game's unwritten rules.

According to three sources, a Yankees coach noticed a whistling sound in the opposing dugout on certain pitches on Saturday night in Houston. The Yankees started yelling across the field, and people in the dugouts argued back and forth.

90
Talk Zone / Re: Joe Maddon to the Angels
« on: October 16, 2019, 01:49:15 pm »
I thought they blacked out announcements like this in the postseason. Or is it just the WS?

Just the WS

91
I've been getting the flicker on my FUBO stream. Also there's no superimposed strike zone graphic.

Comcast too. It's an FS1 issue.

92
Holy shit Reddick crushed that.

93
Talk Zone / Re: ALCS - time to reset the lineup, right?
« on: October 15, 2019, 11:15:57 am »
Reddick is in today's lineup, assuming the game is played.

It seems that today's game isn't likely to be rained out. Tomorrow's game is toast.

94
Talk Zone / Re: Weather report for Game 4
« on: October 15, 2019, 08:58:30 am »
Game 6 in that scenario is the bullpen day not game 7.  Game 7 would still in theory be Cole's on normal rest.  A rainout just moves the bullpen game back, if it gets that far.

That's a good point. You're right.

I kind of liked how it was originally set up - win at least one in New York and you've got JV and Cole fully rested at home. Shifting the bullpen game from 4 to 6 messes that up, but it's the ALCS. There's an insane amount of pressure every game.

95
Talk Zone / Re: Weather report for Game 4
« on: October 15, 2019, 08:45:21 am »
I'm not sure who benefits more or less from a rain out. It's certainly logical that moving Grienke/Verlander/Cole all up a game in the series is advantageous, but making a game 7* a kitchen sink/bullpen game would be way too stressful. Of course eliminating a day off between four games should be a disadvantage for the Yankees bullpen, but that cuts both ways and increases the workload on Harris/Osuna/Pressley/Smith.

96
Talk Zone / Re: ALCS - time to reset the lineup, right?
« on: October 15, 2019, 08:36:38 am »
This thread makes as much sense as the calls to move Springer down in the order in 2017. Correa has had one good game. Tap the breaks on moving him up. Whatever Hinch decides I am fine with, but I think he likes the balance of this batting order.

The balance forces Boone's hand to move through the bullpen. Worked out nicely in Game 2.

97
The whole situation in Syria is unraveling fast:

- Turkish forces are committing war crimes
- The Kurds have been forced into an alliance with Bashad’s, Russian-backed Syrian government
- No one is now fighting ISIS, who are escaping from their Kurdish captors
- US forces are cut off and in need of evac, most likely by airlift
- We are trying to figure out what to do about the 50 nukes we have stationed in Turkey

What a shitshow.  Aside from the death and destruction - which is horrifying - the big/only winners here are Putin, Bashad (i.e. Putin) and Erdogan.

This is completely indefensible, yet Republicans continue to offer bizarre third person criticisms as if it’s some kind of abstract issue and not the deaths (in one case reportedly by rape and stoning) of men, women and children who are our long time allies. 

My disgust for Trump and his enablers - be they in Washington, on TV, the 40% who still support Trump or those complete cunts who made the “Kingsman” parody - is overwhelming right now.

And as expected Russian forces have swooped in to fill the vacuum in northern Syria.

98
Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Rotation
« on: October 11, 2019, 06:28:44 pm »

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

Boone says it will be Tanaka, Paxton and Severino.

99
Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Rotation
« on: October 11, 2019, 02:21:41 pm »
What is the expected Yankees rotation? A cursory google search didn't reveal anything to me.

100
Joe Smith to Sparks: ‘You’re having more fun than half the room.’

Sparks screaming at Harris "you're skanky" and "your wife loves money" as Harris cheerily replied "she loves winning and being a party of this thing."

Somehow I was not aware that Brandon Crawford is Garrett Cole's brother in law.

101
Talk Zone / Re: NLDS
« on: October 09, 2019, 05:28:46 pm »
Even Andrew Jackson thinks this is harsh.


Sherman too.

102
Talk Zone / Re: NLDS
« on: October 09, 2019, 05:23:16 pm »
Take Flaherty out? Keep him fresh for the NLCS?

He has more plate appearances than innings pitched.

103
Correct on all accounts.


Rep. Mark Green, with NPR's Here & Now, talking about Trump and Syria:

"Yeah, I disagree with what he’s doing now, I wish it wasn’t happening, but I still fully support it."

104
Talk Zone / Re: NLDS
« on: October 09, 2019, 04:37:38 pm »
10-0 by the time it gets to the bottom of the first.

10 runs on 5 hits (3 doubles), 4 walks and an error.

105
Trump on the Kurds: "They didn't help us in the Second World War, they didn't help us with Normandy." He says they're only interested in fighting for "their land." He adds, "With all of that being said, we like the Kurds."

President Trump: Captured ISIS fighters held by Kurds in northern Syria “are going to be escaping to Europe, that’s where they want to go, back to their homes.”

106
Some are, but most are Muslim (you may be confusing them with Armenians).
This is still abhorrent, and the reality that how much Republicans will care about these events depends in large part on the religion (and race) of the victims is sickening.

Let's not forget what Turkey did to the Armenians.


107
Talk Zone / Re: JV on short rest
« on: October 09, 2019, 01:31:38 pm »
So, I'm seeing all the day after managers saying how JV was "over confident" or too tired and should not have pitched yesterday.  I still stand by the decision.   

Partly, I'm just sick of people who rarely watch the games start commenting on them now.  It's getting on my nerves today.

Verlander wasn't the problem yesterday. The offense needs to score runs.

108
The Turks are hitting the Kurds with air strikes, including civilians.  They are begging for the enforcement of the No Fly Zone but US forces have been told to stand down. 

ISIS has been attacking Raqqa, including suicide bombings, and most of the city is without power. 

This is just 72 hours since Trump’s fateful phone call with Erdogan in which he was said to have been “rolled”.

And don’t forget that last time (that we know of) Trump talked to Erdogan, the same thing happened - he promised to pull out of Syria completely - but the uproar from Trump’s own party forced him to reverse the “decision”.  This time, Erdogan was prepared and had his forces ready to roll immediately so that he would turn Trump’s stupidity into a fait accompli.

This is so fucked up.  If we let this stand, millions will die and ISIS will be resurrected.  If we push back, we will be in a shooting war with Turkey and Russia.  But, her emails...right?

It's an astonishing Game of Thrones level betrayal of our only allies fighting against ISIS in the area.

There are reports that residential areas are being bombed by the Turks. This is a completely unnecessary and avoidable humanitarian catastrophe. 

109
Meanwhile the list of documented sexual assault/perviness victims of Trump continues to expand:

While the president has publicly faced allegations from two dozen women, this book reveals another 43 allegations of alleged inappropriate behavior, including 26 instances of unwanted sexual contact.

110
Trump has fully embraced obstruction of justice. NYT: The White House declared war on the impeachment investigation, saying in a letter to House leaders that it would not cooperate with the inquiry.

111
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS
« on: October 08, 2019, 03:24:33 pm »
I like it. Splits up the lefties by having two rightys between each one. Forces Cash to really pick his spots when using his lefties


Yep. Hinch called it his "most balanced lineup" anticipating having to work through 5 to 10 opposing pitchers.


112
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS
« on: October 08, 2019, 03:16:51 pm »
A slightly shuffled lineup today. Brantley in the 2-hole and Altuve hitting third.

113
Talk Zone / Re: JV on short rest
« on: October 08, 2019, 08:28:11 am »
If the original plan was to have Verlander waiting in relief in case Urquidy exits with a lead, it makes imminent sense to simply start with Verlander anyway when you know you have Cole ready to go on full rest if there has to be a game 5.

115
Maybe. I read it would either be JV in short rest or Urquidy in a 2-1 series. If it goes 5, and Cole pitches game 5, messes up rotation, maybe I need to count the days. ALCS starts 10/12. Offense needs to show up.

Correct. If the Astros win tomorrow, Cole pitches Game 1 and Verlander slots into Game 2 on normal rest.

If there's a Game 5, Cole pitches. Probably Grienke in Game 1, Verlander Game 2, and Cole in Game 3. That would permit Grienke to pitch Game 5 and Verlander to pitch Game 6 and Cole to pitch Game 7 on regular/extended rest. That just leaves game 4. Not ideal, but it's all do or die at that point anyway.

116
JV tomorrow.

Footer's prediction: My bold prediction: Verlander five innings, Urquidy three, Will Harris one (or Will Smith; whoever runs to the mound the fastest)

117
Another hanging changeup

From Chandler Rome: "Overall, Zack Greinke's changeup has been pretty effective today — it's gotten four of his nine swings and misses — but he's mis-executed two that have left the ballpark."

118
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS
« on: October 05, 2019, 04:51:52 pm »
AJ: “He’s on this roster for a reason. Swung the bat extremely well against lefties. Think he’s earned it, needs to be utilized because he can impact the game.”

119
Talk Zone / Re: Postseason schedule / info compilation
« on: October 05, 2019, 02:35:17 pm »

Game 3: Monday, October 7, time TBD @ TB
Starters: Zack Greinke (18-5, 2.93) vs. Charlie Morton (16-6, 3.05)
TV: MLB Network (Bob Costas, Joe Girardi, Jim Kaat, Jon Paul Morosi)


The game is set for 12:05 CDT because why would they want kids to watch more than three innings of any postseason game.

120
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS
« on: October 05, 2019, 02:20:24 pm »
Badass.  It's been a while since I was there.

Definitely going to make it out this year. It's a blast.

121
I am not sure with whom I'm more angry:  Trump and his flying Trumpanzees, the Republicans in Congress who have gone deaf, dumb and blind, or the Democrats who are being calm and methodical when this is running around, hair on fire stuff.

It's the Republicans in Congress. Trump is a corrupt daft narcissistic lunatic and we all knew that going in.  The Democrats, in their ham-fisted way, are at least trying establish accountability. The congressional Republicans have utterly abdicated their responsibilities to the nation.

122
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS
« on: October 03, 2019, 01:24:32 pm »
And Reddick is a dad. Maverick Joshua Reddick and Ryder Blaze Reddick were born yesterday.

123
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS
« on: October 03, 2019, 01:20:15 pm »
Hinch says Correa is ready to go on Friday.

“Feels great and he’s ready to go... I have no concern that he's going to be able to post tomorrow.”

124
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS
« on: October 03, 2019, 09:33:39 am »
Buckle up, folks. Tampa is a good baseball team. Their bullpen is purportedly one of the best in MLs so getting runs early is key.

Which will have to done against last year's Cy Young winner, a suddenly emergent phenom, and CFM.

125
Talk Zone / Re: Choose Wisely
« on: October 02, 2019, 01:19:43 pm »
Chron: Astros owner Jim Crane said on Monday the team "may make a run" at re-signing Gerrit Cole, but intimated he would rather stay below baseball's competitive balance tax.

126
It’s a balancing act between not leaving anything out (which means it would take forever to finish) and going narrow suggesting that everything else was ok (or at least not impeachable). 

I think they need to pick maybe 3 things:
Abuse of power (Ukraine)
Influence peddling (foreign/lobbyist spending/investment at Trump/Kushner properties)
Self-enrichment (govt spending at Trump properties)

I am leaving out anything from the Mueller report because - as serious as it is - it would be cleaner to go with all new stuff.  The RWNM would make it all about the Mueller report which was twisted into nothingness and with hindsight was so narrowly focused that it blew right by all the rest of this.  Also, the new stuff is all entirely while Trump has been president, so it’s clearly valid for oversight by Congress.

ETA:  Plus, of course, any shit that any of the pull from now on can be considered obstruction, which is an impeachable offense.  As Trump’s knee jerk reaction to getting caught criming, is to do more crimes, this will likely lead to an ever-extending list of charges.

The ten discrete examples of obstruction in volume 2 of the Mueller report all occurred while he was president. I can't imagine not including that in articles of impeachment.

127
Talk Zone / Re: Post Season
« on: October 02, 2019, 10:05:49 am »
That game was the perfect microcosm of the post-season. The Brewers lost because a ball caught a millimeter of Taylor's skin and Zimmerman's swing was so bad he shattered his bat and an easy fly ball turned into a fluke drop in. Up until that they executed the game plan perfectly, but their season is now over. It's a tough game.

128
Talk Zone / Re: Post Season
« on: October 02, 2019, 10:01:28 am »
We all have our lapses in judgement but Braun?!?!? What he did as an adult is far more offensive to me than what Hader did as a kid. With Braun it was not so much his juicing or lying about it, it was when he tried to deflect blame by implicating the innocent sample collector.

Grienke hates him for that very reason.

129
Oh, and it’s bad enough that foreign governments pay Trump by staying at his properties, but now Politico reports that foreign governments are paying Trump for stays at his resorts and then not staying there.  There’s a spate of large block bookings being made and paid for, but no one shows up.

“The unifying theme of congressional investigations is examining the president’s abuse of his office and his power to advance his personal political agenda and his goal of financial self- enrichment,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), a member of the House Oversight Committee.

I'd say that's on the money and also why it is counter productive to focus impeachment only on Ukraine amongst the sea of crimes.

130
Talk Zone / Re: ALDS
« on: October 01, 2019, 08:48:14 am »
Friday at 1:05 and Saturday at 8:07, both on FS1

I know it is an annual tradition to bitch about the start times of games, but this is fucking ridiculous. There are only two games on Saturday, there's no need to have one starting after 8:00. Most elementary school age kids will only be able to watch just a few innings of the first two games of the series at most.

131
Talk Zone / ALDS
« on: September 30, 2019, 06:04:01 pm »
The umps for the Astros v. WC ALDS: John Tumpane, Bruce Dreckman, Mark Wegner (cc), James Hoye, Jerry Meals and D.J. Reyburn.

132
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 30, 2019, 04:52:33 pm »
Here'smore fodder for the obvious undermining of national security:  "Attorney General William P. Barr has held private meetings overseas with foreign intelligence officials seeking their help in a Justice Department inquiry that President Trump hopes will discredit U.S. intelligence agencies’ examination of Russian interference in the 2016 election, according to people familiar with the matter."WaPo article.

It's amazing to me that now--months after the Mueller report was released and (right or wrongly) met with a collective shrug despite detailing multiple crimes--Trump and his folks are still working to undermine both the report and the underlying foundation for the investigation that Russia launched a cyber campaign to help Trump's campaign. Hell, even Trump's conversation with the Ukrainian president was the marriage of three crazy conspiracies designed to blame someone other than Russia for the hack on the DNC (or more specifically that the DNC famed Russia).

Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reports that Pompeo was listening in on the call with the Ukrainian president. Last week Pompeo pretended not to know what was said in the conversation.




133
Talk Zone / Re: Post Season Awards
« on: September 30, 2019, 04:35:32 pm »
Any chance Verlander and Cole share the Cy Young? That would seem to make the most sense.

If ever there should be co-Cy Youngs it should be this. Pretty amazing that the two best pitchers for the season were teammates who were near carbon copies of each other. Johnson and Schilling at least had some separation between them. But the only way that happens is if all 30 voters equally split 1-2.

Another wild card is to remember who the voters are. The two Tampa writers have dinged Verlander in the past (leading to a Twitter roasting by Kate). Of course the Detroit Free Press guy has an issue with Verlander as well, as evidenced of being barred from the post-game presser earlier this year. Cole probably has a edge there.

134
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 30, 2019, 09:35:34 am »
4 minutes left in the first half, scored tied 3-3...Texans recover fumble at Panthers 46 yard line.  Four plays later, they have 2nd and 4 at the 18 yard line driving for a lead nearing the 2-minute warning...BOB thinks that's the perfect time for someone *other* than Deshaun Watson to throw a pass, so he calls for a wide receiver throwback pass from Deandre Hopkins, who promptly lobs a dying quail up the air for an easy interception, which is run back to the 46 yard line.  Panthers go in to score the TD in the final minute instead and take a 10-3 lead into the half. 

It wasn't BOBs worst mistake of the game...after all, we were only halfway through.   

Ah, yes. That's the stuff.

135
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: September 30, 2019, 09:12:48 am »
Spleen it is with a record setting 107!

PM me your address and I'll send your lid.

136
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 30, 2019, 09:10:00 am »
In his furious Sunday-long tweet storm, Trump called for Schiff to be tried for treason and warned against civil war if impeachment continues. In a normal world, that would be the last thing a politician would say before being forced to resign. In Trump World, it barely gets an above the fold headline.

137
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 30, 2019, 09:05:35 am »
I missed the game but just saw the highlights. Not hard to tell what this referred to.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

I missed the game and the highlights. What was this?

138
Talk Zone / Re: Stretch run
« on: September 27, 2019, 09:29:55 am »
What a miserable display of pedantry by both teams.

CB Bucknor's called third strike makes for the trifecta of pettiness.

139
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 27, 2019, 09:16:16 am »
I'd say he's coming increasingly unhinged but it's par for the course.

Trump rants nonsensically about his own spelling mistake, while confusing hyphen for apostrophe

140
Talk Zone / Re: Miley's Last Chance
« on: September 26, 2019, 03:38:19 pm »
Is Peacock a lock? He's only pitched once since coming back

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

From what I've read, if he's healthy, he's in.

141
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 26, 2019, 03:33:21 pm »
Huh, sounds like the threat of retaliation.

Here's some fun context for the comments: "The person briefed said that many of the diplomats in the room took particular offense because there were children in the audience and it was supposed to be a family-friendly event. Instead, the kids there saw Trump talking ominously about treason and spies and how we need to be rougher on people."

142
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 26, 2019, 03:23:55 pm »
Trump: "“I want to know who’s the person, who’s the person who gave the whistleblower the information? Because that’s close to a spy. You know what we used to do in the old days when we were smart? Right? The spies and treason, we used to handle it a little differently than we do now." 

143
Talk Zone / Re: Miley's Last Chance
« on: September 26, 2019, 02:56:22 pm »
He meant Harris the first time.

You're right.  I'll try this again:


I assume the following are locks (barring the unforeseen or unimaginable, with all humble deference to the BBGs):

1. Verlander
2. Cole
3. Grienke
4. Osuna
5. Pressley
6. Harris
7. Peacock

Likely additions:

8. Urquidy (either as a game 4 starter or Miley insurance)
9. Smith

Fighting for the last two spots:

10. Miley
11. Rondon
12. James
13. Devo
14. Abreu
15. Framber/Cionel (seems unlikely, but Miley's the only other southpaw). 

My baseless prediction is that Miley and Abreu get the last two slots.

144
I don’t think a person who believes this can be called a “centrist.”

I think that at this point that's a fairly majority view, along with requiring coverage for pre-existing conditions.

145
Talk Zone / Re: Miley's Last Chance
« on: September 26, 2019, 02:06:27 pm »
You have Smith in there twice.

That certainly opens up an opportunity for someone.

146
Talk Zone / Re: Miley's Last Chance
« on: September 26, 2019, 01:50:01 pm »
They'll carry 11 pitchers for the ALDS

I assume the following are locks (barring the unforeseen or unimaginable, with all humble deference to the BBGs):

1. Verlander
2. Cole
3. Grienke
4. Osuna
5. Pressley
6. Smith
7. Peacock

Likely additions:
8. Urquidy (either as a game 4 starter or Miley insurance)
9. Smith
9. Miley

Fighting for the last two spots:

10. Rondon
11. James
12. Devo
13. Abreu
14. Framber/Cionel (seems unlikely, but Miley's the only other southpaw). 

As Waldo says, Miley probably makes it regardless and I'd like to see Abreu, but I happily recognize that I don't know shit.

147
Talk Zone / Re: Choose Wisely
« on: September 26, 2019, 10:45:58 am »
If Correa isn't on the postseason roster, who's your third baseman? Diaz? Toro? Move Yuli to third and put Tucker at first?

148
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 26, 2019, 10:18:33 am »
There’s a lot of misinterpretation of the aftermaths of the Nixon and Clinton impeachments.

Clinton’s was obviously politically motivated and it cost the GOP the House that they’d just won back.  Clinton was re-elected, but was left with enough stank on him that Gore pretended not to know him - despite Clinton still being a popular figure at the time - and promptly lost in that Florida shitshow that likely doesn’t happen if Gore had felt he was able to embrace Clinton. 

Republicans turning on Nixon, late in an mid-term election year, was what forced him to resign.  The GOP still got trounced that November and Carter won the White House thereafter. 

A Trump impeachment is far more akin to Nixon than Clinton, but it’s not like Clinton’s impeachment didn’t leave a mark either.

The Clinton impeachment was in his second term.

But I agree with you that this impeachment is much more akin to Nixon than Clinton.

149
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 26, 2019, 09:30:46 am »
Settle down, Beavis. I haven’t argued he doesn’t. I’m making the observation that doing so will ensure his re-election.

I just don't follow the logic. How would airing corrupt ineptitude make people vote for him who wouldn't already?

150
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: September 25, 2019, 02:26:05 pm »
Current leaderboard:

86 Fredia (Chuck)
91 BUWebGuy
92 Blownranger
93 PCOL2000
94 TerryPuhl21
95 Duman
96 Tom Servo
97 Hostros7
98 Knoxbanedoodle
98.6 Hudson
99 Outlawscotty
100 Homer
101 Drew Corleone
102 Sphinx

103 Craig
104 Astrojo (Blownranger)
105 TeeJoe
106 Subnuclear
107 Spleen
108 TJ
109 Astros Fan in Big D
110 Jacksonian
111 JimR
112 Jaklewein
113 Noe
114 DVauthrin
117 Doyce7
163 WVAstro

151
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 25, 2019, 10:45:08 am »
And then there's the part where Trump seems to think that Hillary's server is in Ukraine and wants to Ukrainian president to find it. What the fuck.

Here's the document the white house released: https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Unclassified09.2019.pdf

152
Talk Zone / Re: The Mets
« on: September 25, 2019, 10:11:06 am »
Adeiny Hechavarria: “I just want to thank God for the opportunity, removing me from the Mets and putting me on this team.”

153
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 25, 2019, 09:59:11 am »
You obviously missed my point. A group of you (and you know who you are) say almost nothing but negative things about the team. I'm not even sure that some of you are really Texans fans down deep. Perhaps the Tennessee Titans nee' Houston Oilers really is your team. The stark difference between the misery that we've all endured as Astros fans, I've heard very little of  comments like "the GM's an idiot. AJ's lineups and pitcher usage is horrible. etc. ad nauseum." We maintained a positive outlook during the Astros darkest days. I've heard nothing positive about the Texans. You should be grateful that it appears that you've got a QB. Cheer about that.

Purpura was a terrible GM.

154
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 25, 2019, 09:57:28 am »
The call notes are a lot more incriminating than I expected. Everything from in response to being thanked for the promised aid, Trump says "I would like you to do us a favor though" and investigate Biden ("Biden went around bragging that he stopped the prosecution so if you can look into it...") to the Ukrainian President saying "I stayed at Trump Tower!"

I imagine the actual conversation was much more blatant.

155
Talk Zone / Re: Stretch run
« on: September 23, 2019, 11:05:02 am »
The Astros now have a magic number of 1 to clinch a better intradivision record than the Dodgers: six game lead with six to play for both teams.  Astros hold a 2-game lead over the Dodgers overall.

Is that the tiebreaker when there's no head to head?

156
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: September 21, 2019, 03:55:02 pm »
Current leaderboard:

86 Fredia (Chuck)
91 BUWebGuy
92 Blownranger
93 PCOL2000
94 TerryPuhl21
95 Duman
96 Tom Servo
97 Hostros7
98 Knoxbanedoodle
98.6 Hudson
99 Outlawscotty
100 Homer

101 Drew Corleone
102 Sphinx
103 Craig
104 Astrojo (Blownranger)
105 TeeJoe
106 Subnuclear
107 Spleen
108 TJ
109 Astros Fan in Big D
110 Jacksonian
111 JimR
112 Jaklewein
113 Noe
114 DVauthrin
117 Doyce7
163 WVAstro


Let's go Astros Fan in Big D!

157
Genesis Cabrera is pitching for the Cards.

158
Talk Zone / Re: Imelda
« on: September 20, 2019, 09:24:46 am »
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.

Everything seems to be operating fine. Much of the city is taking the day to lick its wounds (schools closed, etc), but the infrastructure is all functioning.

159
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros - 9/18/19
« on: September 19, 2019, 09:43:49 am »
I'm glad you said this, I wasn't watching the game and was about to call bullshit because Max Scherzer struck out exactly 300 last season


I was very confused by the fact that he was the first Astros since Scott in 1986 to strike out 300 but Scott wasn't on the list of players who had struck out 300 since 1980.

160
Talk Zone / Re: The Mets
« on: September 19, 2019, 09:32:10 am »
The Rangers could reincarnate Roberto Clemente and Mother Teresa and I would still hate them for Harvey.


A million times this. That was the type of decision that any normal person would spend the rest of their life wondering "what the fuck was I thinking?"

161
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: September 18, 2019, 05:06:50 pm »
Last night Craig and Cavan Biggio joined Gary and Daryle Ward as the only father-son duos to hit for a cycle in major league history.

162
Game Zone 2019 / stRangers at Astros 9/17/2019
« on: September 17, 2019, 04:16:04 pm »
Under the roof as Imelda begins her deluge:

1. Springer 8
2. Altuve 4
3. Brantley 7
4. Bregman 5
5. Alvarez DH
6. Gurriel 3
7. Correa 6
8. Chirinos 2
9. Reddick 9

SP: Verlander

163
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: September 17, 2019, 11:40:22 am »
Correa returns to the Astros tonight. Hitting 7th. Will probably play only a few innings.

164
Beer and Queso / Re: DIRECTV streaming 2018
« on: September 13, 2019, 03:36:31 pm »
To further muddy the waters,  ATT is considering selling their regional sports networks.   So what works now may not work after a sale.

https://awfulannouncing.com/local-networks/sinclair-comcast-att-regional-sports-networks.html

Speaking of RSNs, Crane's fraud lawsuit against McLane for CSN Houston has sprung back to life.

165
Beer and Queso / Re: DIRECTV streaming 2018
« on: September 13, 2019, 03:31:15 pm »
Welp,

Looks like a storm is brewing b/w DirecTV AT&T vs ESPN.   ESPN set to go black at midnight, so no college football tomorrow.  Im finally to the point to cut the cord. 

I live in Houston, my #1 priority is finding a service that I can still watch Astros games live.  It appears that is the case with Fubo.TV   Are there any other options?

Also, I have 3 TVs, who do I get them to play a streaming service?  One is a Vizio with their built in chromecast stuff.   The others are not smart TVs.   Lastly, would I need to up my internet plan?  Never have a problem with data limits, cause I dont stream much.

Some cord cutting Astros watchers I know just use a stream available from reddit to watch the games.

Get an amazon firestick and an apple TV for the TVs.

166
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 13, 2019, 11:55:20 am »
Couple of quick hits:

Trump wants to lend Iran $15billion
His trade war with China has cost 300,000 jobs in U.S.
The Federal deficit just topped $1 billion (per year) for the first time in 7 years

Trillion.

167
Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's at Astros, September 11, 2019
« on: September 12, 2019, 01:56:38 pm »
Just looked at the box because I could not watch until the 7th. That was scored as a WP. Listed to the 6th inning on the radio, and those guys thought James was pretty bad.

Interesting. I assumed it was a PB because it went off the glove.

168
Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's at Astros, September 11, 2019
« on: September 12, 2019, 09:30:12 am »
If Maldonado keeps that ball in front of him, that lazy grounder is at least one out and possibly 2.

Yep. James wasn't good, but that PB flipped the game.

169
Circumstances change, as the acquisitions of JV and Greinke and the extensions for JV, Altuve, and Bregman prove without a doubt.

Of course Springer will probably be addressed this off-season as well.

170
The Astros will never give a pitcher than many years...I think.

I agree as a general principle but think Cole might be the exception given his age and track record. But I would still be pleasantly shocked if they worked out a deal along those lines.

171
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 10, 2019, 11:32:47 am »
This is all so much worse than even the most pessimistic of us could have imagined.

Limey - check your PM

172
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: September 10, 2019, 09:25:52 am »
I'm starting to get cautiously optimistic about seeing LMJ pitch this year.

I didn't think that was even a remote possibility. What makes you optimistic, even recklessly?

173
Man, that brings back some memories. Some are good.

I had completely forgotten about "Chop Tarts." That is so brilliant.

174
See link above.

I don't know how you resisted re-posting the link as though it hadn't already been posted in this thread.

175
Talk Zone / Re: Off day question
« on: September 09, 2019, 01:09:47 pm »
The Astros now have the highest run differential in the majors (+240).

The Astros second half run differential alone (+149) would be good for fifth place in the majors overall. 

2019 Run Differentials
1. Astros (240)
2. Dodgers (233)
3. Yankees (169)
4. Twins (168)
5.  Astros in 2nd Half (149)
6. Athletics (138)

176
Hum, thot that was a trick.  He's not visible on OWA...
Besides, my bride assigns my homework...

It's hard to find Cabrera because he was already there.

177
It is on here somewhere.

Someone needs to re-excavate the secrets of ancient knowledge. I thought visiting the mythical front page would lead me there, but it proved as elusive as Veritas in the bottom of a holy well.

178
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: September 06, 2019, 09:52:51 am »
He was wearing Reddick's shirt and who knows for pants.

Hahahaha. If there were a POTWA this would be it.

179
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 04, 2019, 01:55:22 pm »
The other day, Trump issued a tweet suggesting that Alabama could be impacted by Dorian.  The National Weather Service immediately corrected him, saying that there will no impacts to Alabama.  Today Trump called that a "phony report by a lightweight reporter" and insisted that he was correct, not the NWS.

Now he is showing off a doctored hurricane map that retroactively includes Alabama in what appears to be crudely drawn sharpie and is insisting it is real.

180
Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy
« on: September 04, 2019, 11:32:24 am »
The amount of judginess and outright terrible opinions in this thread is pretty incredible. (Obviously not aimed at you, das)

No shit. People can and should be sad when people they know and love die.

181

I'd love Limey's take too.  I thought THIS article was informative, and it's worth a click for the photo alone.  They predict a new general election.

Quote relevant to this thread:

The initial referendum was flawed both procedurally (there should be more than a simple majority to effect such existential change) and substantively (nobody knew what specific plan they were voting for or against).

It makes sense to me that following the referendum, which was non-binding, the people would be able to vote on the various options negotiated as a result of the initial vote, with the understanding that it was a directive to explore possibilities to leave. Once they could choose amongst concrete plans, an informed vote could take place. Of course, this history could be a figment of my imagination but it’s what always made sense to me.

I don’t understand the argument that “if we knew then what we know now we would never have done that” is somehow a subversion of democracy. Let the people speak.

182
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 03, 2019, 05:22:35 pm »
Meanwhile Pence is in Ireland so he is of course staying at Trump's resort on the western side of the island and flying 180 miles to attend meetings in Dublin. He even has the gall to say that Trump "suggested" he stay there.  The corruption is banal at this point.

183
Talk Zone / Re: Skaggs autopsy
« on: September 03, 2019, 04:32:00 pm »
Back to Skaggs for a second.  The moment that Skaggs' death was announced, I was certain that something like this would be the case.  And the longer it went without the autopsy results being made public, the more my feelings were reinforced.  And perhaps this is an unpopular opinion, but it feels to me that when baseball players die under these circumstances, maybe MLB (and its media operations) should ease up on the over-the-top tributes immediately thereafter.  They did this with Skaggs.  They did this with Jose Fernandez who it turned out was coked up and drunk.  They did this with Halladay after he was killed in the plane crash and it turned out that he had morphine, amphetamines, and alcohol in his system.   And those are just the few that stick out in my mind.  Perhaps MLB should be a little more circumspect about these deaths -- at least until the circumstances are known.


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

184
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 03, 2019, 09:28:37 am »
Fans: The Clowney trade was the worst deal in Texans history!

BOB: LOL hold my beer.

At least he got something in return on the second deal.


What a fucking shambles.

185
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 30, 2019, 01:22:39 pm »

186
Talk Zone / Bivens
« on: August 30, 2019, 11:09:55 am »
I was aware of the atrocity inflicted upon Blake Bivens and his family, but did not realize that Morgan Ensberg is his manager. The Athletic has a good article about the league and club's reaction, including how Ensberg was able to draw upon his own minor league trauma to help Bivens.

187
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 30, 2019, 09:34:52 am »
Per twitter


Octavio Dotel detained in the Dominican Republic as part of a larger drug trafficking and money laundering operation by authorities:

Octavio Dotel, Luis Castillo cleared of wrongdoing in money laundering case

Yesterday, however, they were cleared, with Judge José Alejandro Vargas releasing Dotel and dropping charges against him and Castillo due to a lack of evidence. Dotel still has a weapons charge against him after the police discovered an allegedly illegal firearm while searching his home following his arrest. Dotel’s lawyer says he can establish that the weapon is legal, so that’ll probably go away too. Lawyer’s for Dotel and Castillo are demanding an apology from the prosecutors and police.

188
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rays at Astros - 8/2919
« on: August 29, 2019, 02:14:19 pm »
T3: Meadows upper tank
B3: Springer HR to left center

2-2 after 3.

Anyone feel free to take PBP. I'm barely following the game.

189
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rays at Astros - 8/2919
« on: August 29, 2019, 01:51:47 pm »
Bottom 2:

Bregman grounds out to second
Yordan walked
Yuli singles on a line drive to center, moving Yordan to second.
Richards relieves the opener, Kitteridge
Toro IFR to 2b
Chirinos works the count full after falling behind 1-2 and then doubles to left. Yordan scores, Yuli to third.
Reddick sees 7 changeups out of 8 pitches to work the count full, fouling off 3 of them with 2 strikes before striking out on another changeup.

1-1 after 2.

190
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rays at Astros - 8/2919
« on: August 29, 2019, 01:48:15 pm »
Rays scored in the top of the second when Choi singled, went to second on balk, and scored on a D'Arnaud two out base hit.

1-0 Rays mid 2.

191
Game Zone 2019 / Rays at Astros - 8/2919
« on: August 29, 2019, 01:32:46 pm »
T1:

Fly out to RF.
Strikeout
Strikeout

B1

Springer grounds out up the middle into the shift
Altuve sharp single to right
Brantley K's and a full count strike em out throw em out with Altuve out by several steps

192
Game Zone 2019 / Re: TB v. Astros, August 27, 2019
« on: August 29, 2019, 09:34:47 am »
I'd like to think he's a hitting coach somewhere.  That guy could roll out of bed, be sitting on the can with a beer in his hand and still put a pretty good swing on the ball.

The Astro Clipper

193
Beer and Queso / Re: URGENT: Deadwood Fans
« on: August 28, 2019, 09:22:08 am »
I didn't.

If you at all appreciate New Orleans culture, it is fantastic. The show is very character based and there's not much plot. It's mostly a vibe.

Excellent acting, especially Wendell Pierce, Khandi Alexander and Kim Dickens.

194
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 27, 2019, 04:50:45 pm »
Diaz activated from IL. Straw back to AAA.

195
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 23, 2019, 04:35:03 pm »
Do you seriously think this is what other GMs look at when they evaluate prospects for a potential trade? How they did after the trade?

The Mets wouldn't deal with the Astros this past deadline for fear of being embarrassed.

196
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 23, 2019, 11:21:49 am »
Did you get to see the Saturday game? Combined shutout. Javier with 10 SOs. He has pretty much mastered AA. I wonder if he will get a AAA start this year.

I did not. That would have been a good one to go to.

197
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 01:11:31 pm »
McTaggart: Luhnow said SS Carlos Correa, who was placed on IL Tuesday with lower back stiffness, is still receiving treatment.  He hopes he’s playing in a rehab games in the first week of September and activated back with the big-league team for the last three weeks of the season.

198
In terms of what happened last night, the reporter WAS the victim.  The question is whether the snub was justified.  I'm guessing it was.

It by rule cannot be.

199
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 12:31:43 pm »
Still no word on the corresponding 40 man?

200
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 10:34:12 am »
Kaplan: "It’s worth noting that Toro would’ve been Rule 5 eligible this winter, so the Astros would’ve added him to their 40-man roster in November, if not during this season."

201
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 10:27:03 am »
According to Chandler Rome, Toro will be hitting 7th tonight.

202
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 10:20:21 am »
In self defense I'm preparing for more injury news we haven't heard about yet.

If I say "Correa to the 60 day" enough I know it won't be true.

203
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 09:59:54 am »
I think Guduan's suspension temporarily removes him from the 40-man.

Maybe but everything I see indicates he stays on the 40-man for the rest of the season. He might be the next man out.

204
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 09:54:38 am »
I count 41 people on the Astros current 40-man (which does not include McCullers). Is someone else on the 60 day IL that's not reflected on the linked roster? Of course, counting has never been my strong suit.

205
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 09:45:23 am »
The Astros are calling up Toro to help with the infield. He's not on the 40 man, so corresponding moves should be interesting.

206
And in typically unremarkable news Trump today said that Jews that vote Democratic (read 80% of American Jews) are disloyal and he is cancelling a trip to Denmark because they won’t discuss selling Greenland.

207
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 20, 2019, 10:18:45 pm »
Bun B says there is a new chicken sandwich in town: https://twitter.com/bunbtrillog/status/1163958770940174337?s=21

208
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 20, 2019, 02:48:21 pm »
He was set up, man


Like a sitting duck.

209
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 20, 2019, 11:54:33 am »
Growing up in Corpus we had a small local business called Shep's Chicken Shack. Their fried chicken was awesome. To this day I haven't had anything better but you can't buy it outside of Corpus. At one time there must have been a Chicken Shack in Waco because I remember their signage off of the interstate.

Speaking of chicken in Corpus, Vietnam Restaurant on Water Street is a superb restaurant. Their roasted chicken is one of the best I've ever had (and their salt and pepper fried chicken is really good too). I've been several times and everything I've ordered there was outstanding.

210
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros 08/19/2019
« on: August 20, 2019, 09:54:27 am »
Maybe they're showcasing Eschenfelder because they think they can move him over the offseason.

He does radio play by play for UH football games and is much better than he is on TV. Maybe I appreciate him because his crutch is to constantly mention the score, which many radio guys forget to do.

211
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 19, 2019, 06:16:11 pm »
That looks really good. i might have to try it next time I'm in town.
I've been there just not for fried chicken.  I'll have to find time for another visit.

All fried chicken is good, but if I set out with a specific hankering for it, either Frenchy's or Himalaya is my destination.

212
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 19, 2019, 02:02:24 pm »
CFA spicy deluxe is a great cheap sammich.  Only problem with their fries is if you get them to go they turn soggy in the box within about 3 blocks of the drive thru.

I was recently told that you can order the fries "extra well done" and they'll fry them longer so they're actually crispy.

213
Talk Zone / Re: Lunch today
« on: August 19, 2019, 01:47:41 pm »
Babe's Chicken is the best sit down and eat fried chicken in the state.

My vote is for Himalaya.

214
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 07:20:52 pm »
Hopefully, it’s the good Whitley. Last start was ass.

The first five batters were the good Whitley. The rest were ass.

215
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 08:58:19 am »
Looks like it’s Whitley tonight according to MiLB

216
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at White Sox - 8/13 Game 1
« on: August 13, 2019, 02:12:03 pm »
Altuve will sit game 2, Straw will be active as the 26th man and will start at 2B

Straw has played 2 games in the minor leagues at 2B.

217
Talk Zone / Re: 2020 schedle out
« on: August 13, 2019, 11:23:01 am »
Minneapolis to start August, to get out of the Houston heat, is one I plan on making.

Minnesota in August is fantastic. There are of course a bunch of nearby lake lodges you can go spend a few days at to extend the vacation.

218
Talk Zone / Re: Astros tonight
« on: August 13, 2019, 08:28:13 am »
Aren't they going to have to come up with a sixth starter for Saturday?

Yes. I imagine Urquidy will get the call.

Who will be the 26th man today?

219
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 12, 2019, 05:28:35 pm »
Thanks. I don't suppose it's possible to say he's not right and send him back to the IL. That would open the door to too many shenanigans.

He's currently on the IL and would stay on the IL if he's not ready. He just can't continue to play in the minors for that long while being designated injured.

It's not at all uncommon for a player to aggravate an injury while playing a rehab game and extend their stay on the IL.

220
Talk Zone / Re: Astros tonight
« on: August 12, 2019, 05:26:33 pm »
Dang it. Greinke and Cole on the same day? Wonder which order Hinch will choose.

It's being reported as Greinke first, Cole second.

221
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 12, 2019, 05:19:30 pm »
Is there a limit to how long he can be on rehab before they have to make some sort of (presumably irreversible) move (like releasing him, or releasing somebody else to make room for him)?

20 days for position players, 30 days for pitchers.

222
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 12, 2019, 03:41:37 pm »
Thanks to both of you!

223
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 12, 2019, 11:33:19 am »
I'm going to catch a Hooks game on Friday (and possibly Saturday). What players should I pay particular attention to? Aruaz jumps out, as does Dawson, for the hitters. Whitley of course, and Abreu for the pitchers.

Any suggestions about where to find probable pitchers?

224
Talk Zone / Re: Today's Loss
« on: August 12, 2019, 10:15:47 am »
Winning 2 of 3 is a 108 win pace.

Going .500 the rest of the season is a 99 win pace.

225
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 12, 2019, 10:12:12 am »
Definitely an underrated contribution to that season.

He was the 2017 team leader in games started.

227
Waiting to see if Hannity et al will pursue the Epstein suicide with the same vigor as their Clinton/Foster fever dream.

Not.

In the sense that they are claiming Hillary arranged for Epstein's murder?

228
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 09, 2019, 09:17:37 am »
Luhnow is The Master

A prevailing view I've heard among the punditry is that the Astros would have "won" the trade even if it were Fisher for Biagani straight up.

229
Talk Zone / Re: Expanded netting for next homestand
« on: August 09, 2019, 09:13:40 am »
Somehow all those folks behind the plate have survived it for years.

They even pay top dollar for the experience.

230
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rugged Mountain Range @ Vastness of Space 8/7
« on: August 07, 2019, 04:10:28 pm »
Why didn’t Bregman score on Alvarez’ single? Was he holding the score down by stopping at third? Two outs so he should have scored easily.

I didn't see it so I'm speculating, but there have been plenty of times that Yordan has hit the ball so hard that the runner on second doesn't have a chance to score on a single.

231
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rugged Mountain Range @ Vastness of Space 8/7
« on: August 07, 2019, 03:45:58 pm »
Is he the other with 8 in a game?

Yes. He had 8 rbi as a September call up in 2007 against the Coards.  He went 4-4 with 2 doubles a homer and a rbi hbp.

232
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rugged Mountain Range @ Vastness of Space 8/7
« on: August 07, 2019, 02:50:26 pm »
7 RBI in 3 PAs in 4 innings. 

10 RBI in his last 10 innings.

Yuli is smoking it.

233
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 07, 2019, 02:28:37 pm »
Not unusual for Fisher. Not a good OFer.

He hit his first homerun as a Blue Jay today.

234
Beer and Queso / Re: annual happy birthday to me and andy z
« on: August 07, 2019, 02:27:46 pm »
Happy birthday to you both!

235
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 01, 2019, 12:45:25 pm »
I wonder if Sanchez gets the Saturday start. A couple of sessions with Strom and he should be ready  to go.

I think it's pretty likely given the lack of available other options.  Starting on Sunday the rotation will be Verlander, Greinke, Cole, Miley, 5th.

236
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 01, 2019, 10:25:21 am »
If I didn't know better I'd guess he's on the spectrum.

Isn't that what neurodivergent refers to?

237
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 04:50:28 pm »
O M G

Deep breaths.

Glad the site is back up and running!

Gonna just leave this here

Springer
Altuve
Bregman
Brantley
Correa
Yordan
Gurriel
Catcher
Reddick

Verlander
Cole
Grienke
Miley

MOTHER OF GOD

I can't stop staring at this. Amazing.

238
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 03:48:59 pm »
Is this an accurate summary of the day's activity?

Grienke + $24mm for Martin, Bukauskas, Beer and Rojas
Sanchez and Biagnini for Fisher
Maldanado for Kemp

239
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 10:45:57 am »
You wont have to wait that long,   Deadline is 4PM EST today.

Why did you tell him?

240
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 09:42:52 am »
He was just placed in the IL.


Chandler Rome confirms Abreu getting the call.

241
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 30, 2019, 03:42:30 pm »
That’s your idea of a counterpoint.

No thanks on Bauer.

He is a supreme douche bag is really the only point. Hard pass.

242
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 30, 2019, 02:17:08 pm »
There's so much I don't get about trading for Bauer. In no particular order:

• He's got no emotional control on the field
• He harasses women online, in full public view
• He does shit like writing "Bush did 9/11" on the mound during games
• He's notorious for refusing to listen to his teams' coaching staff, dating at least back to his college years
• He and Cole despise each other from their UCLA days
• He called out the entire Astros organization for doctoring the ball last season
• He's enough of a cancer that Cleveland is thinking about trading him when they're 3 games up in the Wild Card and 2 games out in their division

Is a wicked spin rate really that valuable? I just can't see it happening.

Counter point: He wanted to file an arbitration number of "either $6.9 million or $6,420,969.69," and then proceeded to make "69 days of giving" donating increments of $420.69 to a charity each day for 68 days followed by a 69th day contribution of $69,420.69.

243
Talk Zone / Re: Our info source
« on: July 30, 2019, 02:03:23 pm »
Amazing.  Rosenthal and others have reported the Astros linked to just about every good starting pitcher.  The job Luhnow is doing of putting everyone off is incredible.  Certainly all of the other post-season contenders are wondering what the Astros are going to do.  If this keeps them occupied at all then fantastic.

Lots of fun and razzle dazzle to enter August with Tony Watson added to the team.

244
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 30, 2019, 10:52:16 am »
Is Wheeler expected to pitch better than his 4.71 ERA seems to indicate?

Here's a long and detailed analysis by the crawfish boxes giving the statistical argument for why he would be expected to perform better as an Astro than a Met (beyond the obvious moral superiority).

As for luck:

So why is his ERA inflated? Well, he’s had a fairly perfect storm of bad luck. His LOB% is at 65.1%, a stat that basically every pitcher in baseball will end up in the 70-72% range, a stat that has shown to not be in the control of a pitcher. Higher K/9 pitchers will generally be slightly towards the higher end, and Wheeler would fit that bill and is well below where one would expect.

That’s a start, but there’s more. His HR/FB is at 14.1%, a stat that basically averages for every pitcher in the 8-12% range, and Wheeler’s career 11% fits that logic. Again, Fangraphs found this statistic to largely be out of the control of a pitcher as to what %, especially without a significant change in his batted ball profile.

His BABIP (.313) and xwOBA also show indications of poor luck. Additionally, Wheeler currently is throwing his highest K/9, lowest BB/9, and averaging 6.1 IP per start so far this year.


And then of course, his spin rate and arsenal meet the Strom recipe for success.

245
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 30, 2019, 10:45:00 am »
That would make the runs unearned. Makes no sense to bring in a rental not named Beltran or Johnson if there are alternatives.

Not errors - they just can't get to the balls that good infield defenses turn into outs.


246
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 29, 2019, 04:03:06 pm »
Jason Vargas to the Phillies.

247
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 29, 2019, 02:13:29 pm »
Jordan Lyles to the Brewers.

248
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 28, 2019, 09:36:11 pm »

So now they trade Syndergard? The Mets getting Stroman is crazy.

The people I know who follow the Mets closely seek to think this move cements the fact that Syndergaard will be traded.

249
Talk Zone / Re: Tony Kemp
« on: July 26, 2019, 05:23:39 pm »
Kemp is fantastic. I hope he finds success and fulfillment wherever he winds up (and helps bring a new pitcher to the Astros in the process).

The video of his impromptu gender reveal is classic. What an upbeat, positive, good-natured person. He will be missed.

250
Talk Zone / Re: Does census trend = RIP OWA?
« on: July 25, 2019, 09:13:36 pm »
10 years ago tonight I was part of an OWA group outing to watch the Astros lose to the Mets 10-3 and it was one of the greatest life changing nights of my life. Thanks to all, especially those who keep this community going.

251
But the “optics” were terrible, because this is a fucking drama production, not the state of our republic.


It's so fucking crazy. The report is pretty clear and should have provoked impeachment hearings the day after it was issued.

252
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: July 23, 2019, 09:44:54 am »
Why does kemp need to be the odd man out?  Send Straw down, since he has options, when Correa returns.  keep Kemp on the roster so you don’t lose him.  Let Straw spend a month in the minors working at SS and bring him back up when the rosters expand in September.

It seems like a no-brainer to me. The only wild card is if Kemp gets included in a trade which is entirely possible.

Is this the last year that rosters expand in September?

253
Talk Zone / Re: What I hate to hear
« on: July 23, 2019, 09:38:25 am »
I seem to remember Keuchel getting criticized two years ago for accurately saying the team needed to add a starting pitcher going into the postseason.

254
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: July 22, 2019, 04:46:55 pm »
Was there any word about James after the game yesterday? Does he have an issue??


Kaplan a few minutes ago:

It sounds like Josh James won’t pitch for at least a day or two. He downplayed yesterday’s velocity dip, chalking it up to general arm soreness after an increase in workload coming out of the All-Star break.

255
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 20, 2019, 06:39:52 am »

The Yordan jack was reminiscent of Bonds.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

474 feet? The right fielder didn’t even budge.

It’s a shame there was no statcast for the Bonds era.

256
Talk Zone / Re: Astros just DFA’d Tyler White
« on: July 20, 2019, 06:32:21 am »
Not many people can say they were an AL Player of the Week.

257
Talk Zone / Re: Does census trend = RIP OWA?
« on: July 17, 2019, 04:27:14 pm »


(Try again)  "Curious, when did each of you last post - b/f today?"


I'm going to go out on a limb and say the last time ETA posted before today was April 6.

258
Talk Zone / Re: Astros' opener
« on: July 15, 2019, 11:36:58 am »
I'm a little curious as to why McHugh doesn't get a shot at holding down one of those BOR spots. He has been successful in that role before.

From Kaplan's recent article:

Collin McHugh isn’t an option to start, outside of serving as an opener. He’s no longer stretched out as a starter, and the Astros evidently believe he’s best-suited to relief at this point. His opportunity to make their postseason roster would be in the bullpen, so from that standpoint, it makes sense to let him settle into that role.

259
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 14, 2019
« on: July 14, 2019, 05:08:08 pm »
Via Berman: Yuli Gurriel of the @astros has 60 total bases in his last 15 games, the most by a Cuban-born player in a 15-game span all-time. The previous high was 59 by Hall of Famer Tony Perez in April 1970.

260
Talk Zone / Re: World Class Selig Fluffing by Pinwheel
« on: July 11, 2019, 03:02:11 pm »
I wrote this in 2012, as a part of a series preview. I still feel this way.

Fuck him. Fuck his bullshit "book," his chortling reminiscenses of times spent emptying the spittoons of the Really Wealthy, his giggling with Other Millionaires and the twisted dream that they think of him as a friend. Or that any of us have the slightest interest in whatever warped sack of lies he hawks as his story.

I came back to my computer after a few hours, read this and though "That's really harsh on Bouton!"

But yeah. The notion that Bud can peddle his bullshit legacy to any sentient being is preposterous.

261
Embattled Labor Secretary Alex Acosta - who is currently trying to strip 80% of the budget for the prevention of sex trafficking... just think about that for a moment - rake-stepped his way through a Trump-ordered press conference yesterday.  He claimed that the environment we are in now - presumably meaning as it relates to child rape - is different than it was all the way back in 2008.  He also claimed that he did not have the evidence available now.

Former colleagues have come out and cried "bullshit", saying there was a 53-page Federal indictment ready to go, but it was dropped.  Congress is demanding Acosta come and testify as to what the fuck he was thinking; hopefully they will subpoena that draft indictment.

In the meantime, though, Acosta struggled the most with the question that really should be burning up everyone:  why were none of Epstein's co-conspirators charged?

There are a lot of people associated with Epstein who frequented his parties.  He brought these girls to his parties.  1 + 1 = rot in jail motherfucker.  These Epstein-adjacent people include Prince Andrew (one of the girls in the Herald piece mentions servicing "royalty"), Bill Clinton, Alan Dershowitz and one Donald J. Trump, who has described Epstein as a "terrific guy", was a regular at his parties, has hosted at least one of Epstein's parties at Mar-a-Lago and is probably more adjacent to Epstein than he is to Melania.  He also has admitted to grabbing pussies without permission and of invading the dressing rooms of his Miss Teen USA pageant contestants, because he could.  Miss Teen USA is open to girls between 14 and 19.

Trump has been proved correct that he could shoot someone on 5th Ave and get away with it.  He is credibly accused of full-on raping a woman in a New York city department store, yet the media focused on Biden's inappropriate handsiness instead.  But can he rape a child - maybe children, plural - and get away with that?

Trump was sued by a woman who claimed he raped her at an Epstein party when she was a child, but she dropped the lawsuit rather than lose anonymity.

262
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Major Leauge All-Star Game, July 9, 2019
« on: July 09, 2019, 10:23:59 pm »
Hot take: MLB punishing Brantley because of Verlander and Marisnick (probably just Verlander).

263
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Major Leauge All-Star Game, July 9, 2019
« on: July 09, 2019, 10:18:01 pm »
Bait and switch.

264
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Major Leauge All-Star Game, July 9, 2019
« on: July 09, 2019, 10:08:21 pm »
Brantley MVP! 2 years in a row for the good guys

265
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 09, 2019, 05:32:27 pm »
If bros engage in Twitter wars, then they may be.

I thought so, but I guess not. For some reason I was under the impression that they worked out together in the offseason, but google has disabused me of that notion.

266
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 09, 2019, 04:58:30 pm »
Easier than explaining it to Cole and Bregman.

I thought Bregman and Bauer were bros. Cole of course not so much.

267
Details from what FBI found inside Epstein’s $77 Million Manhattan mansion:

- Extraordinary volume of photographs of nude underage girls

- Hundreds perhaps thousands of sexually suggestive photographs of fully or partially nude females.

- Safe containing compact disks with labels


This guy needs to be in Federal pound me in the ass jail without lube for the rest of his life.  Same goes for anyone on any of those CDs, be they royalty, former (or current) Presidents, entertainers, anyone.  Acosta can join them too as an accessory after the fact, as can any other enablers out there.

Round them all up and throw all the fucking books at them.

Given that all of the right wing's bad faith attacks turn out to be projections of their own behavior, this and the Trump Kentucky campaign chair seem to put the whole pizzagate lunacy into a new perspective.

268
Talk Zone / Re: Verlander -- Sleep Guru
« on: July 09, 2019, 03:17:14 pm »
He had some choice words for MLB about the baseballs too:  https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/27149029/verlander-mlb-juicing-balls-more-offense

"It's a f---ing joke," said Verlander, an eight-time All-Star who is starting his second All-Star Game on Tuesday. "Major League Baseball's turning this game into a joke. They own Rawlings, and you've got Manfred up here saying it might be the way they center the pill. They own the f---ing company. If any other $40 billion company bought out a $400 million company and the product changed dramatically, it's not a guess as to what happened. We all know what happened. Manfred the first time he came in, what'd he say? He said we want more offense. All of a sudden he comes in, the balls are juiced? It's not coincidence. We're not idiots."

I can't find any video of the interview. Was it just in person with Passan?

269
Talk Zone / Re: Verlander -- Sleep Guru
« on: July 09, 2019, 10:45:09 am »
Verlander and Josh James: Both proof of the power of a good night's sleep.

270
Talk Zone / All Star Game
« on: July 08, 2019, 01:47:45 pm »
AL Lineup:

Springer RF
LeMahieu 2B
Trout CF
Santana 1B
Martinez DH
Bregman 3B
Sanchez C
Brantley LF
Polanco SS

Verlander SP

271
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: July 03, 2019, 05:15:29 pm »
Is Alvarez hurt? Didn't pinch hit last night and not in the lineup tonight which has White batting eighth.

Hinch doesn't want to exacerbate his knee condition by running him around Coors' giant outfield. They announced on monday he would only be a PH in this series.

272
Beer and Queso / Re: URGENT: Deadwood Fans
« on: July 03, 2019, 09:28:43 am »
I didn't realize Bell or Offerman were on the show until I re-watched it.

Article about various luminaries who appeared on the show.

273
Talk Zone / Re: Tyler Skaggs has passed away
« on: July 01, 2019, 04:50:32 pm »
Damn. Just seems like a few years ago they lost another young pitcher in a car accident.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Nick Adenhart?

274
Talk Zone / Re: Tyler Skaggs has passed away
« on: July 01, 2019, 04:28:36 pm »
How tragic and awful.

277
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 28, 2019, 03:32:37 pm »
Yordan's knee keeping him out of tonight's lineup.

278
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 28, 2019, 03:32:01 pm »
Peacock to the IL. Guduan back up.

279
Beer and Queso / Re: USWNT
« on: June 28, 2019, 09:21:34 am »
It's tough that three of the top four are on one side of the bracket, but if you're going to win you have to beat good teams. This should be a great game.

280
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Pirates @ Astros, June 27, 2019
« on: June 27, 2019, 03:45:36 pm »
They could find themselves in second place by the end of the weekend.

After today the Rangers are only 4 back, right?

281
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Pirates @ Astros, June 27, 2019
« on: June 27, 2019, 02:24:09 pm »
He's probably got a giant bruise with distinctive stitch marks- not knee damage.

Discomfort encompasses everything from a bruise to amputation.

282
Talk Zone / Cy Sneed
« on: June 27, 2019, 09:20:29 am »
As reported in the GZ, Sneed is up, Framber is down. Smith moved to the 60 day IL to make room on the 40 man.

Busriders: What's the story on Sneed?

283
Talk Zone / Re: Update on kid hit in stands 5/29 vs Cubs
« on: June 26, 2019, 05:42:37 pm »
I just hope she has excellent doctors.

Certainly being treated at an excellent facility.

284
Talk Zone / Re: Update on kid hit in stands 5/29 vs Cubs
« on: June 26, 2019, 04:19:16 pm »
She has an excellent lawyer.

285
Talk Zone / Re: This losing streak
« on: June 26, 2019, 12:13:17 pm »
I realize that is the organization’s narrative, but I have seen him play there a couple of times in RR. We read about his being a bad OFer too, but he has shown he can play there.

I thought he was primarily a 1B and then this year they wanted him to try LF. Hinch seems to be playing him the opposite way around. I probably just had it wrong in my head.

286
Talk Zone / Re: This losing streak
« on: June 24, 2019, 03:01:38 pm »
From Saturday's chron:

Smith, meanwhile, will require many more appearances. Because he ruptured his Achilles in December and did not appear in a live game until Saturday, Smith's minor league rehab assignment will mirror a spring training buildup. He is next scheduled to pitch on either Monday or Tuesday.

Manager A.J. Hinch revealed Saturday that Smith, the veteran righthanded specialist, will not factor into the major league bullpen until after the All-Star break, joining Carlos Correa and Aledmys Díaz among the Astros sidelined until mid-July.

287
Talk Zone / Re: This losing streak
« on: June 24, 2019, 11:11:33 am »
It will all be better once the injured players return.

concur

289
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 21, 2019, 02:43:15 pm »
Stassi has been activated from the IL and Guduan called up.

Stubbs and Mayfield down.

290
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Yankees, June 20, 2019
« on: June 21, 2019, 11:00:52 am »
Final 10-6. Slapdick umpires letting that farce continue in the deluge made all the difference.


At the time it seemed that the rain made all the difference and it was malpractice not to bring out the tarp even before the homeruns. Did Hinch have anything to say about it? He didn't seem perturbed by the continuation, but he seemed perplexed.

291
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Yankees, June 20, 2019
« on: June 21, 2019, 10:59:24 am »
Thank you, HudsonHawk.
Is that b/c this is the only Astros trip to NY and there will be no other chance to make up this game?

No. They don't restart games that don't make it past 5 anymore. They just pick it up next time.

292
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 20, 2019, 01:25:32 pm »
There was one telling play where Blummer exclaimed "Heeeee's baaaack!" in terms of being able to play second effectively. It was a pop-up that he immediately screamed everyone off, including White who made an initial move to go after it, but Altuve had those little legs moving so fast as he screamed "I got it". He made a routine play out of it by getting to the spot quickly and camping under the pop fly. No one else dared come near him as he made that play. Altuve then turned and fired a bullet to Bregman as if he were saying "That felt good!".

In short, he looked good out there, no problems.

Normal

The most encouraging news yet. Thanks.

293
Talk Zone / Re: Les Expos du Tampa Bay?
« on: June 20, 2019, 01:24:43 pm »
A cuban sandwich with a side of poutine sounds pretty fucking good to me.

294
Here you go...

The article goes on to question whether it's wise to continue placing him as a middle of the order hitter. The author suggested Yuli is better in the lineup as a #7 or at most a #6 hitter, with a strong suggestion that placing him in front of Chirinos (#8) and Reddick (#9) once everyone returns is the smart play. Hinch might not see it that way, but we shall see.

We've already discussed the lineup with Alvarez hitting as a DH, and it looks by all indications that Yuli will become a #7 hitter when all is said and done.

Thanks. Yes, it will be fun when everyone is back healthy and the lineup can show off its depth.

295
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 20, 2019, 11:21:48 am »
He looked okay, but he is getting his swing back in order so it is to be expected. Basically, he's going through spring training again. It's going to take time.

How did he look moving and running?

296
What's Hinch's opinion on Yuli?

297
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Reds, June19, 2019
« on: June 19, 2019, 05:24:15 pm »
The ball was wild left of the beyond the batter’s box. Somehow Stubbs knocked the ball right of the plate outside the batter’s box. Where was Osuna supposed to be? He was not involved in the hitter moving to second.

Where ever Osuna was supposed to be, he ended up standing right next to the ball staring blankly around instead of making a play.

298
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 18, 2019, 01:04:52 pm »
No, CC wasn’t discussed. Unless they can mend bones with a potion a la Harry Potter to speed up the healing process, I’m guessing we are about 2 weeks away from hearing how close he is.


Yeah. We're only three weeks into what was optimistically expected to be a four to six week process. I wouldn't expect anything now other than "continuing to monitor."

299
Talk Zone / Re: Tucker in June
« on: June 17, 2019, 03:48:23 pm »
I remember Ben McDonald saying that the CWS teams were equivalent to AA.  I'm of the belief that his statement is off the charts wrong, so much so that I went through a thought experiment.  If there were 8 four-team, double elimination tournaments with the top 24 ranked college teams and the 8 Texas League teams, I'd take even money that the final 8 teams would all be the Texas League teams. 

Sure, there are college players who would not embarrass  themselves in AA, but the average to below average AA position player would be one of the top players on the best college teams, and the sheer pitching depth of an AA team would overwhelm college teams.

What percentage of the roster on typical CWS teams is even drafted?

300
Talk Zone / Re: Tucker in June
« on: June 17, 2019, 10:36:03 am »
Snuffy, who is Luke?

I thought Luke was Preston.

301
Talk Zone / Re: Let the kid play!
« on: June 17, 2019, 10:35:24 am »

Would you grant that there was a maturity difference and that the level of competition was probably stronger for Bregman's 3 years @ LSU?   


That's interesting. I would not have expected college (even the mighty SEC) to have a higher level of competition than AA and AAA professional baseball.

302
Beer and Queso / Re: USWNT
« on: June 14, 2019, 05:58:06 pm »
It's pretty typical that 75% of a thread about women's soccer is a bunch of dudes talking about  men's soccer.

303
Unfortunately, i can put the HC on ignore, but it does little good if you break a year-long silence here to drudge it up again.

To be fair, the article Snuffy is responding to is only a month and a half old.

304
Beer and Queso / Re: USWNT
« on: June 13, 2019, 12:02:26 pm »
You all make good points and they are all factors in the success divide between genders, however, I think it is wrong to discount the favored status of other sports in America of having a negative effect on the talent pool for men's soccer. 

I think it's all part of the same issue. The fact that other men's sports are more favored in the US is why there's more of an infrastructure for those sports than soccer.

Also in a different vein, VAR is changing the way the game is played.

You are correct.

305
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 11, 2019
« on: June 13, 2019, 11:35:24 am »
Don’t understand your jab, but if you knew what is going on with me, you’d be nicer.

I think she was saying that "Bergman" as a common mistyping used to automatically be interpreted as Berkman but now is automatically interpreted as Bregman.

I hope you're doing well and that you get through whatever it is that's got you down.

306
Beer and Queso / Re: USWNT
« on: June 12, 2019, 03:58:54 pm »
Extremely non-uniform asymmetries of men and women soccer participation by country. Also, the US has a competitive college athletic soccer program which act as a proxy pro league. Given most of the world doesn't have any kind of post-high school support for women's soccer beyond say Olympic teams, this is a big advantage.

Right. The US has an infrastructure for the development of women's soccer that the rest of the world doesn't have. Meanwhile, much of the soccer world has an infrastructure for the development of men's soccer that the US doesn't have.

307
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 11, 2019
« on: June 12, 2019, 02:48:17 pm »
Nothing about that quote makes him sound like an asshole to me.  Is there something else?

Lance is all about Lance. Not much thought for the kids he was coaching. I think most educators would note that they really enjoyed working with the kids and found it fulfilling, but Lance was more concerned with what the job would do for him and not the other way around, which sucks when you're talking about children.

I enjoyed hearing his anecdotes last night. He's an amusing guy. But that quote was pretty hollow.

308
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 11, 2019
« on: June 12, 2019, 01:17:22 pm »

309
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: June 11, 2019, 12:24:31 pm »
Interesting he chooses to be on the side of the Empire.

They have better data.

310
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: June 11, 2019, 11:38:58 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

Didn't he do the same thing with Tucker was called up?

311
Beer and Queso / Re: Bushwick Bill
« on: June 10, 2019, 05:04:55 pm »
Yeah, I'm saddened. That little fucker was something else.

He was a badass.

312
Beer and Queso / Re: Bushwick Bill
« on: June 10, 2019, 02:43:48 pm »
RIP Bushwick.

Meanwhile Scarface is running for city council.

313
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Houston Astros vs. Seattle Mariners - 6 Jun 2019
« on: June 06, 2019, 04:44:09 pm »
Mayfield now tied with White for home runs this season.

314
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Houston Astros vs. Seattle Mariners - 6 Jun 2019
« on: June 06, 2019, 04:39:19 pm »
I liked Springer's transition from excitedly gesturing for the ball to be returned to the dugout to clamming up to give Mayfield the silent treatment.

315
Talk Zone / Re: Maddon Conspiracy Theorist??
« on: June 05, 2019, 02:34:24 pm »
Did Noe just Cabrera himself?

316
Talk Zone / Re: Corbin Martin
« on: June 04, 2019, 05:01:33 pm »
Martin down, Guduan up.  That indicates Framber to the rotation.

317
Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: May 30, 2019, 09:18:43 am »
I bet that you pulled for the National League in the ASG and in the World Series when the Astros were in the NL.

Not really. In the all star games I'd root for the players I like to do well, and for the team with the Astro(s) on it to win. In the world series it's always team specific. I damn sure never cheered for the braves in the 90s.

318
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: May 29, 2019, 05:47:20 pm »
Correa released a statement saying that he "sustained the rib fracture during a massage at my home on tuesday"


I just assumed you were playing along with the joke, but it's true.

319
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: May 29, 2019, 03:08:27 pm »
Three times in this thread now and once in the Bus Ride. What’s the Cabrera record?

Cabrera is the Cabrera record.

320
Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: May 29, 2019, 01:54:37 pm »
Conference fandom is one of the strangest things about college sports. You'll see plenty of trucks sporting around with an "SEC" sticker but I simply can't bring myself to root for the AL West on pure principle.

321
So, if you haven''t read Justin Amash's Twitter threads about why he thinks Trump should be run out of the White House on a rail, then you should.  It's the kind of sober, point-by-point, principled without grandstanding, demolition of the arguments against impeaching while painstakingly making the arguments for impeachment that Democrats could do worse than copy and paste onto their campaign websites.  He also has another thread where he does the same to Bill Barr, stripping him to the bone marrow.

He's clearly one of the only people on capitol hill who has actually read the Mueller report. There's no way to fairly read it and reach any other conclusion than the president first placed his (and Russia's) interest over the nation's, denied and worked to cover up the extent of Russian interference on his behalf, and then committed multiple felonies to interfere with the investigation into that interference.

322
If you were to replace 'identifies' with 'insults' then I think there might actually be a victory to be claimed.

mraup would run out of room for his trophies.

323
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Cubs @ Astros, May 27, 2019
« on: May 27, 2019, 02:58:40 pm »
Now i want to know if the kid is Jack junior and they call him Jack-son or if it’s straight up Jackson. Can’t wait to meet their future daughter Jacqueline.


And their cat Meoff.

324
I honestly have no idea how this will go.  Gun to my head, I’d say hard Brexit, i.e. falling out of the EU with no agreement in place.  The Brexit campaign was breathtakingly corrupt and based entirely on the fake premise that Britain could keep all the stuff it liked from the EU, while still getting out.  Europe was consistent in saying that this was nonsense and would never happen. 

When the Brexit vote squeaked to a narrow victory, every leader in the Brexit movement quit.  They knew it was impossible.  The PM Cameron quit, because this was his fucking mess in the first place and was replaced by May, who was anti-Brexit.  She prostituted the government to a fringe group in order to maintain a majority, and has been getting told to fuck off ever since by everyone from Aberdeen to Azerbaijan.  Every Brexit proposal put to a vote in Parliament has gone down.

So now it’s very possible that Boris Johnson - the Clown Prince of Brexit - will be the new PM.  If that happens, think of the worst thing possible, double it, and you’ll still fall short of how bad things will get.

I think it's very likely a determined PM could force a hard Brexit in the fall, which of course would be a disaster.

325
Talk Zone / Re: Jose Urquidy
« on: May 23, 2019, 03:31:09 pm »
I feel as though Carlos Hernandez had large strikeout game also.

But those teams were AA not AAA.  Maybe that is the difference.

At the only Express game I've ever been to Hernandez struck out 16 and Jason Lane hit two home runs. 

326
Talk Zone / Re: Morning Lineup MLB Podcast
« on: May 23, 2019, 03:30:09 pm »
Mr. Weebles! But he wasn't an alien, just a microscopic man.

Found it in this transcript

That's it! Thanks!

327
Talk Zone / Re: Morning Lineup MLB Podcast
« on: May 23, 2019, 09:58:23 am »
What was the name of the little alien that lived in Jimy Williams' mouth? Oddly enough a google search came up empty.

328
Talk Zone / Re: Morning Lineup MLB Podcast
« on: May 22, 2019, 05:48:11 pm »
For the record, who was on which side of the manager argument?

My hunch is that Footer is a big fan of old scraps.

329
Beer and Queso / Re: The Toadies
« on: May 22, 2019, 09:15:24 am »
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.

Is Nectar's still a pilgrimage spot for jam band nerds?

330
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: May 21, 2019, 09:32:56 am »
I think Alvarez because he can play first, unless George has more of an injury.

They'd have to add Alvarez to the 40 man and still have to do something with White (or Kemp).

331
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: May 20, 2019, 09:23:48 am »
Lost's ending was more sensical and satisfying.

332
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: May 13, 2019, 10:18:24 am »
The bolded part is why I don't understand why Kemp is even in this discussion. IMO, his particular skill-set is highly valuable to the Astros, but no so valuable to a non-contender or a contender that needs him as a everyday player.   Bottom line, you'd get little in return for a player that will be hard to replace.

I agree. If there's a discussion between Kemp v White, it ought to be a pretty short one.

333
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: May 13, 2019, 10:07:49 am »
So last week, Daenerys's fleet can't see the Iron Fleet right on their flank and the scorpion crossbows take down a dragon from long range.  This week, the entire King's Landing forces never, I dunno, turned around? and not one of about 40+ scorpions can't land a single hit in CQB.

The sheer amount of deus ex machina being employed in wrapping up this series is maddening.

Like the Battle of Winterfell, another technical masterpiece depicting shitty storytelling.

I suppose the difference is the power of the element of surprise + Rheagal being seriously injured before hand.

But yeah, that was a lot easier than it should have been and/or it is so stupid that they didn't take out the Lannister forces (while not massacring everyone) back when they had three dragons. I guess that is Dany's whole point. The mad queen bit was certainly telegraphed but it felt very reductive in execution.

The Goldon Company being a popcorn fart and Euron's dispatch were both funny to me. The whole Jaime character arc was thoroughly abused in the last episode and a quarter.

334
Beer and Queso / Re: London / UK recommendations
« on: May 12, 2019, 12:18:49 pm »

Can’t disagree with any of that.

Finding a pub in or around the City that:

1) is open on Sunday
2) has television(s) and
3) serves food

Was surprisingly hard.

335
Beer and Queso / Re: Rockets 2019 Playoffs
« on: May 12, 2019, 12:00:13 pm »
The fact that Eric Gordon was their second best player,  not Chris Paul,  was a huge problem.

Paul only looked like CP3 for one stretch during the entire series.

Paul wasn't even their third best player this series.

Harden played like a hero. He's one of the last reasons they lost.

336
Talk Zone / Re: Miley
« on: May 10, 2019, 01:15:29 pm »
Durable, yes. Inconsistent, yes. Decent year, with last 20 starts being very good, yes. Very good year overall, no. We’ll see if he ever signs, but I think he is on the downhill slide and should have accepted the QO.

He should have accepted the 5 yr/$90 million deal back in 2016.

337
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros - 5/9/19
« on: May 10, 2019, 10:41:55 am »
Why was the roof leaking?  Have the seals gone bad?

There are no seals.

338
Talk Zone / Re: Miley
« on: May 10, 2019, 09:30:23 am »
12-11, 3.74 is “very” good? Where is the very good bar set?

200 innings. Top 10 in quality starts.  Better than the vast majority of starting pitchers.

339
Talk Zone / Re: Miley
« on: May 10, 2019, 08:44:24 am »
The was a graphic last night comparing the two through their first 8 starts. I had forgotten how bad Dallas was last year.

He had a bad start but ended up having a very good year.

But yes, so far Miley is another inspired roster move by Luhnow.

340
Just recapping the day:

1. House judiciary votes to cite Barr for contempt.
2. New York moves forward with closing the loophole for pardons for state crimes and making Trump's state tax returns available to congress
3. The GOP-led Senate judiciary intelligence committee subpoenas Don Jr. regarding his prior testimony
4. Jerry Falwell Jr has some nebulous cabana boy scandal involving Cohen

Typical Wednesday.

341
Beer and Queso / Re: Champions League
« on: May 08, 2019, 04:06:14 pm »
Oy My God!!!! Lucas Mora!

He's amazing! What a finish!

342
Beer and Queso / Re: Champions League
« on: May 08, 2019, 02:50:26 pm »
Spurs concede early but, due to the away goals rule, the math hasn't changed as two goals will still win it for them (without shipping another one).  It also means it will be decided in the regulation 90 minutes as there's no scenario that can produce extra time or penalties.

Reportedly (not watching) they're up for it.  With a top 4 finish in the league sewn up, this is what they have left to pay for.

I'm sure UEFA would love an all-English final!

Spurs had plenty of chances in the first half but couldn't finish. Ajax had fewer chances but impeccable finishes.

343
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: May 08, 2019, 12:11:36 pm »
Raise your hands if you thought Mike Fiers would throw TWO no-hitters in MLB.

He now has two career complete games.

344
Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel - The Principled Social Warrior Of Fairness
« on: May 07, 2019, 12:13:34 pm »
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.

I think there are several differences inherent in the unique structure of a sports league as a legal cartel, which is why it is best addressed through a CBA. Also, the employees are the product.

Outside of the unique arena of professional sports, I also believe that the "stakeholders" who determine corporate policy -- including compensation -- should include the employees' interests.

345
Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel - The Principled Social Warrior Of Fairness
« on: May 07, 2019, 12:09:39 pm »
I'm sure the player's union pays close attention to MLB revenue and want to maintain their slice of the pie, but the better way to do that is to pay minor leaguer's and young players more and not overpay mid-tier guys like Keuchel.

They absolutely should. And I think the approach that the Astros took with Bregman is a good example of what the model should be. Compensate the prime years. The model of over-paying for what a player has already accomplished doesn't make any sense.

346
Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel - The Principled Social Warrior Of Fairness
« on: May 07, 2019, 11:06:55 am »
I think the only people truly sympathizing with players not getting paid like they once were are other players and a handful of sportswriters.

And me.

347
Talk Zone / Re: Keuchel - The Principled Social Warrior Of Fairness
« on: May 07, 2019, 11:06:30 am »
They're getting paid better than any players in history.  It's not enough for them.  It's just plain avarice.

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.

348
Hundreds of former federal prosecutors signed a statement agreeing "that the conduct of President Trump described in Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s report would, in the case of any other person not covered by the Office of Legal Counsel policy against indicting a sitting President, result in multiple felony charges for obstruction of justice."

...

We emphasize that these are not matters of close professional judgment.


349
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: May 06, 2019, 12:36:51 pm »
My biggest gripe was Surprise! Euron and his Invisible Fleet once again resetting the gamepieces out of nowhere.

His character should be renamed to plot device.

350
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: May 06, 2019, 09:42:14 am »
To each their own. I loved it.


People making dumb decisions that backfire spectacularly is a pretty basic aspect of the human condition, and a central theme of the show.  Or are people whining about logistics again?

351
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Twins - May 2, 2019
« on: May 03, 2019, 10:27:47 am »
Isn't it just the Mexican version of Montreal?

What's the Mexican version of poutine?

352
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: May 03, 2019, 09:48:37 am »
In the meantime they're allowed to add a 26th player (non-pitcher) to the roster for these games in Mexico. Luhnow said it will be somebody already on the 40 man. Straw? Fisher?

353
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: May 01, 2019, 10:25:32 am »
I don't disagree with this view. I still it enjoyed it while I watched it though.

That's where I end up as well.

354
Talk Zone / Re: Red Ass
« on: May 01, 2019, 10:08:53 am »
I thought his was Dumbass.

That was Chris Holt.

355
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: April 29, 2019, 11:23:04 am »
The opinions on last night's episode appear to lean negative, and I get why, but I think it fit in with the show's general feel in a post-source material era. Benioff & Weiss have not shown that they have great storytelling chops - nor are they particularly strong writing dialogue - so the show works best as a spectacle, and in highlighting  individual character moments.

The spectacle was a bit muddied at time with the prevailing darkness, but the moments abounded:

Melisandre's fiery touch and the Dothraki Screamers charging into the darkness
Lyanna Mormont bringing down a giant
Sansa and Tyrion's shared hopelessness when all looked lost
Theon's and Jorah's deaths
Arya ninja-ing her way to the Night King

Some of it was silly, and at least 3-4 characters lived when they should have died, but it kept me on edge for the full 80+ minutes, and with both the music and several of the standout acting performances, I was satisfied.

Now what? A couple hundred survivors and two banged-up dragons are going to take down Cersei? That's a lot of plot armor.

It's hard for a swift conclusion to a decade of buildup to not feel underwhelming.  The parts of the episode that I could actually see were all enjoyable and suspenseful. The whole fighting retreat through the rooms of Winterfell was terrific. 

They better send whatever troops that are still alive to Moat Cailin ASAP.

356
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: April 29, 2019, 10:17:59 am »
Grey Worm and Brienne all but certain this week. Jorah, Tormund, Edd, Beric highly likely.


It's a show that constantly defies expectations!

357
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: April 29, 2019, 10:15:00 am »
Does anyone think that any combo of White/Kemp/Marisnick is going to fetch a starter?

If you want a starter aren't you going to have to give up something valuable from the farm?  Or an actual proven every day player on the current 25 man roster (i e. Reddick; not endorsing this)?

Or sign a free agent cy young award winner who pitched 200 innings last year and finished in the top 10 in quality starts.

358
Beer and Queso / Re: URGENT: Deadwood Fans
« on: April 26, 2019, 02:03:20 pm »
I started a rewatch last weekend.

I rewatched season 3 a few weeks ago.  I'm going to start at the beginning now.

359
Talk Zone / Re: Boras and Free Agency article in The Athletic
« on: April 26, 2019, 09:53:41 am »
What are the broad strokes?

360
Speaking of healthcare, North Korea, before it would release Otto Warmbier - as U.S. citizen who had been treated so horrendously in Kim's regime that he died shortly after returning to the US - demanded that someone pay his $2 million healthcare bill.  Seriously.  Trump authorized it paid (and has denied that since, or course).

Congratulations everyone!  Our tax dollars at work; funding a pudgy, crazy, nuclear-armed dictator with a stupid haircut...

...and Kim Jong-Un.

And then Trump covered up for Kim Jong-Un absolving him of any responsibility for the treatment of death of Warmbier.

361
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Indians at Astros, April 25, 2019
« on: April 26, 2019, 09:31:15 am »
The umpires awarded three outs on foul balls they missed.

362
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Twinkies @ Astros, April 24
« on: April 25, 2019, 10:54:00 am »

And this Verlander character may turn out to be a decent acquisition.

That was a masterful performance. 8 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 0 BB, 98 pitches.

363
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: April 25, 2019, 10:52:11 am »
“By this summer”

He has to clear a roster spot.

I think there's currently only 38 players on the 40 man. It seems that the logjam in the DH/LF spots are the bigger issue (plus the development of his defense).

364
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: April 25, 2019, 10:50:21 am »

365
The Mueller Report is available as an audio book.  I got mine for free on Audible (you get one free book as a new user).

Who's the narrator?

366
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Rangers, Easter Sunday April 21, 2019
« on: April 21, 2019, 02:49:49 pm »
Only the second time I've seen Brantley swing and miss.

367
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Rangers, Easter Sunday April 21, 2019
« on: April 21, 2019, 02:49:14 pm »
Are we taking bets on stranding Chirinos on 2nd?

Is stranded on 3rd a push?

368
The full context of Barr's "[T]he investigation did not establish that members of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities."

Is:

"Although the investigation established that the Russian government perceived it would benefit from a Trump presidency and worked to secure that outcome, and that the Campaign expected it would benefit electorally from information stolen and released through Russian efforts, the investigation did not establish that members of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities."

So to Reverse Barr it:

"[T]he investigation established that the Russian government perceived it would benefit from a Trump presidency and worked to secure that outcome, and that the Campaign expected it would benefit electorally from information stolen and released through Russian efforts."

369
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at A's 17 April 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:56:53 pm »
I can't do anymore PBP. I'm in the wrong time zone (and can't watch the game anyway)

370
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at A's 17 April 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:42:00 pm »
Pinder lays over a 2-0 pitch, soft GO 1-3
Canha goes down 0-2, takes a ball and then doubles to left
Laureano grounds out 6-3. Canha stays at second.
Profar doubles to left, knocks in Canha. 1-0 A's.
Phegley fouls off a full count pitch and then fouls off another. Flies out to center

After 2:
Hou: 0 0 1
Oak: 1 2 1


371
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at A's 17 April 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:30:21 pm »
Correa HBP on a 2-2 pitch
Yuli K's
Reddick GIDP 3-6-3

372
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at A's 17 April 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:24:17 pm »
Simien walks.
Altuve botches the 5-4-3, and Chapman ends up at second.
Piscotty flies out to center
Davis grounds out 5-3.

0-0 end 1

373
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at A's 17 April 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:15:41 pm »
Top 1

Springer struck out
Altuve popped out
Bregman reached on throwing E-4, goes to 2nd
Brantley swings and misses on a 3-2 pitch. That is the first time I've seen him swing and miss a pitch.

374
Game Zone 2019 / Astros at A's 17 April 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:12:38 pm »
"Turning it up to 11"

375
Talk Zone / Re: Ryan Pressly
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:10:51 pm »
I’ll be the Old Man until the end. Neil is a mere child.

Jim keeps getting older and Neil keeps staying the same age.

376
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @A’s, April16, 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:09:41 pm »
CFM

Collin F'n McHugh may actually be an upgrade from Charlie.

377
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, April 14, 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:08:33 pm »
I'm so disappointed I missed this conversation

378
Beer and Queso / Re: London / UK recommendations
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:01:38 pm »
The Lamb in Leadenhall Market, if you find yourself in the City of London, is interesting not only because the Market was a set for Harry Potter (it's Diagon Ally) but you will have some great people watching - namely the peacocks of Lloyd's of London (also Young's isn't a bad pint). 

Really? I've stood countless pints at The Lamb and had no idea it was such an auspicious place. I just figured it was a place to buy drinks for clients who didn't feel comfortable lunching at the Steam Bar. As an aside, if you have a drunken lunch filled with welsh rarebit and coronation chicken sandwiches you'll have done yourself a favor.

Leadenhall Market in general is a marvelous place. There's a liquor store in Leadenhall Market that reliably has bottles of Pappy cheaper than you can find in the States, to the extent you could even find one over here at all.  But other than admiring the modern architecture from afar, there's little need to be in the City beyond visiting the Tower of London.

379
Beer and Queso / Re: The Last Jedi [spoiler alert]
« on: April 17, 2019, 07:13:01 pm »
...after R2 just magically awoke from years in a droid-coma with the other 99% of the map.  🙄

But he actually is special

380
Beer and Queso / Re: London / UK recommendations
« on: April 17, 2019, 12:31:38 pm »
Be sure to see Westminster abbey. Truly one of the great historical sites of the western world and the experience with Notre Dame compels that you should never miss a chance to see a place like that.
The Churchill war rooms are amazing.
The British Library has a fantastic collection of writings from the Magna Carta to the birthday card John Lennon wrote A Hard Days Night.

381
A new one every day; like an evil, four-year advent calendar.

Here's an [https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1116811681462616065.html]unrolled tweet thread[/url] from David Rothkopf summarizing the most recent disgraces.

383
I get what you are saying Limey and it's shameful to make these migrants pawns in a political game but on the flip side, If I had just risked my life traveling from Central America through Mexico to migrate to the US, I might prefer a city that welcomed me over a hostile one.

That's the most amazing thing to me. Unless they are combing through the population of migrant families to find the rare particularly vicious sort to inflict upon random people who happen to live in places that Trump perceives to be his political enemies, the reaction should be "so what?" Houston has one of the largest populations of refugees in the country. The more the merrier.

But Trump and his cronies' motives are so fucked up.

384
Meanwhile Trump's sister retired from her (inactive) position as a federal appellate judge amid evidence she participated in a tax fraud scheme with her siblings (including DJT).

385
Talk Zone / Re: Tom Hamilton
« on: April 11, 2019, 11:04:57 am »
The players that provide the offense were very high draft picks and would have done well in any organization. On the pitching side there are people like McHugh and Morton who have dramatically improved by coaching and development, but I can't think of someone on the offensive side like that. I can also think about Singleton, JD Davis, AJ Reed, who seem stuck at the AAA level.

Yordan Alvarez seems to be doing pretty well considering all he cost was Josh Fields.

386
Talk Zone / Re: Tom Hamilton
« on: April 10, 2019, 03:48:14 pm »

387
Talk Zone / Re: Cuban players/Trump/stupidity
« on: April 09, 2019, 09:46:39 am »
Another article addressing the justifications for nixing the program:

In a statement the administration issued to the Washington Post on Monday, a new argument emerged: the fees paid by MLB teams to FCB ones “amounted to ‘human trafficking’ by the Cuban government.”

Of all the arguments to make against this agreement, that’s a curious one. “Literally the only reason we are doing this agreement is to try to end the trafficking of Cuban players,” MLB deputy commissioner Dan Halem said back in 2018.

388
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Rangers April 3, 2019
« on: April 05, 2019, 02:30:02 pm »
I don't know how you can't call the "ball" he called on Gallo that was about 3 inches from right down the middle unintentional. Missing that either is intentional or you're bad enough at your job that you shouldn't be doing it anymore.

Ineptitude indisputably compounded by intent.

389
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Rangers April 3, 2019
« on: April 05, 2019, 10:03:32 am »
That was much more than bad umpiring last night. That was deliberately dishonest umpiring.

This is pure speculation but I wonder if Kulpa's behavior was motivated in part by the Hinch/Angel Hernandez kerfuffle in ST.

390
Talk Zone / Re: I have been waiting for this
« on: April 05, 2019, 09:59:46 am »
I don't recall a single mention of Brent Strom either.

Also an editorial decision. Reiter was asked about not including Strom in this interview:

When you write a book like Astroball, which is about so many talented people doing so many different and novel things, you have to make some tough choices for the sake of character development and narrative. A few readers have reasonably complained that I didn’t write enough about Marwin Gonzalez, and Strom probably falls into that category, too. Even so, Strom does deserve a lot of credit for his work.....

Astroball is about how the Astros have managed to effectively combine man and machine to get the best out of both, and Strom’s a key part of that


- the most heartening side of the book was the acknowledgment of the human factor,  flying in the face of many know nothing critics of the rebuild

This was my main takeaway as well.

391
The DOJ said that every page had a alert that it may contain confidential Grand Jury materials.  Washington Post reports claim that the lead for each section was written in such a way as to avoid disclosing any sensitive information - Grand Jury or otherwise - with the intent that they could be lifted and released to the public as is.  That doesn't mean, though, that there wasn't a stamp, header, footer or watermark with the Grand Jury caution on those pages too.

Of course, the DOJ has a couple of options here:

(1) it could review those section leads first, and clear them for public release; or

(b) like it did with the Watergate Special Prosecutor's report, get a court order allowing the release of the Grand Jury materials to Congress.  The DOJ did this immediately upon receipt of the Watergate report and Barr could have and can get this done very quickly at any time he chooses.

He has chosen not to do either of these things, which makes it disingenuous to use the Grand Jury materials as a defense for not releasing the report to anyone.

The fact that Mueller's team handed the report to Barr on a plate, since which time Barr has acted to obfuscate its core findings and is working to render the entire thing dead by redaction, appears to be what's sparking the heretofore unthinkable leaks.  They didn't do all this work for 2 years for Barr to deep six it.

There's also a difference between releasing the report to the public versus congress. There's absolutely no justification to provide congress with any redacted materials.

392
Beer and Queso / Re: Infinity War (Spoilers)
« on: April 01, 2019, 01:22:03 pm »
This is my son's favorite movie (for now).  We're pondering a group Halloween costume of the various Spiders.

In my house we would all insist on being Peter Porker.

393
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: April 01, 2019, 10:52:37 am »
Thanks BUWG.

Here's the (updated) official list of entries:

86 Fredia (Chuck)
91 BUWebGuy
92 Blownranger
93 PCOL2000
94 TerryPuhl21
95 Duman
96 Tom Servo
97 Hostros7
98 Knoxbanedoodle
98.6 Hudson
99 Outlawscotty
100 Homer
101 Drew Corleone
102 Sphinx
103 Craig
104 Astrojo (Blownranger)
105 TeeJoe
106 Subnuclear
107 Spleen
108 TJ
109 Astros Fan in Big D
110 Jacksonian
111 JimR
112 Jaklewein
113 Noe
114 DVauthrin
117 Doyce7
163 WVAstro


394
Meanwhile, a whistblower informed the house oversight committee that the white house has overturned security clearance denials for 25 people who were initially denied security clearances for reasons such as conflict-of-interest and foreign influences. The whistleblower is an 18 year veteran of the security clearance process who has served both republican and democratic administrations, recognizing what she perceives to be a threat to national security after her concerns fell on deaf ears within the administration:

Newbold said she raised her concerns up the chain of command in the White House to no avail. Instead, she said, the White House retaliated, suspending her in January for 14 days without pay for not following a new policy requiring that documents be scanned as separate PDF files rather than one single PDF file.




395
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: March 29, 2019, 02:51:57 pm »
Correa out again.

396
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 29, 2019, 02:46:43 pm »
Here's the official list of entries:

86 Fredia (Chuck)
92 Blownranger
93 PCOL2000
94 TerryPuhl21
95 Duman
96 Tom Servo
97 Hostros7
98 Knoxbanedoodle
98.6 Hudson
99 Outlawscotty
100 Homer
101 Drew Corleone
102 Sphinx
103 Craig
104 Astrojo (Blownranger)
105 TeeJoe
106 Subnuclear
107 Spleen
108 TJ
109 Astros Fan in Big D
110 Jacksonian
111 JimR
112 Jaklewein
113 Noe
114 DVauthrin
117 Doyce7
163 WVAstro

Good luck to all but most of all to the Astros!

397
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 29, 2019, 10:27:56 am »
Since the previous year's winner can't win again maybe they should run the contest the next year.

That is a terrific suggestion.

398
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Opening Day 2019 Astros at Rays, March 28
« on: March 28, 2019, 05:17:39 pm »
Pressley in.

Impressive start for JV!

399
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Opening Day 2019 Astros at Rays, March 28
« on: March 28, 2019, 04:20:33 pm »
Jose with a no doubter. He had that look on his face.

No phantom high fives for his first homer this year.

400
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Opening Day 2019 Astros at Rays, March 28
« on: March 28, 2019, 03:49:20 pm »
Hit time for Springer!

401
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 28, 2019, 02:08:13 pm »

402
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Opening Day 2019 Astros at Rays, March 28
« on: March 28, 2019, 01:45:11 pm »
Anyone watching the Nats game?  Scherzer almost struck out the side on 9 pitches.  8 straight and then Cano flied out to right center.

Today is the first time in baseball history that both league's cy young award winners are facing off on opening day against former cy young award winners who also finished second in the previous years' cy young vote.

403
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: March 28, 2019, 01:24:56 pm »
Berman 20 minutes ago:  AJ Hinch told the media today in Tampa Carlos Correa's neck is still sore when he swings, but will do a full defensive workout today. AJ says the hope is that he’ll play at some point this series. Carlos is listed as day-to-day.

404
Talk Zone / Re: It’s Opening Day!!!!
« on: March 28, 2019, 01:23:53 pm »
Just had lunch with Ty and Chuck. Headed to the yard now.

Don't share hats.

405
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 28, 2019, 01:00:49 pm »
Eastern or Central?

I can see why Budgirl didn't want to do it anymore.

406
Talk Zone / Re: is there going to be a race for the lid?
« on: March 28, 2019, 11:36:33 am »
Does the "The Lid" still exist? Wasn't there a Derek Bell baseball card as well?

Over the years I think we've collectively decided that with this collection of ne'er-do-wells it's best not to pass around head gear for hygenic purposes.  I'll send a "lid" to the winner.

407
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 28, 2019, 11:29:03 am »
Everyone is so quick on the draw.  The first pick is official as long as the OWA timestamp starts with 2.

408
Talk Zone / Re: Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 28, 2019, 11:27:47 am »
100

6.  NO PICKS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL THE OFFICIAL COMMENCEMENT TIME.
OFFICIAL COMMENCEMENT TIME:
BEGINS : 2:00 pm CDT Thursday March 28, 2019
CLOSES:  2:00 pm CDT Friday, March 29, 2019

409
Talk Zone / Race For the Lid XXI
« on: March 28, 2019, 11:25:57 am »
RACE FOR THE LID XXI
Contest Rules:
________________________________________

1.  Whatever the rules are, Bench(your RFTL judge and jury for 2019) can change them any time for any reason, including whim.  The purpose of this rule is not to promote chaos, but to preempt wailing, moaning, whining, and griping. 
________________________________________

2.  A Pick is determined by the number of wins.
________________________________________

3.  All picks are in this thread.  Picks out of this thread are DQ’d unless Bench changes the rules.
________________________________________

4.  One pick per person. If multiple picks, first poster get the pick.
________________________________________

5. The grand prize, of course, is an Astros cap of Bench's choosing from Astros.com.  Bench is allowed to make rulings on prize disputes that may arise... namely; he gets to tell you to go to hell if you whine that you should get the prize!
________________________________________

6.  NO PICKS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL THE OFFICIAL COMMENCEMENT TIME.
OFFICIAL COMMENCEMENT TIME:
BEGINS : 2:00 pm CDT Thursday March 28, 2019
CLOSES:  2:00 pm CDT Friday, March 29, 2019
No picks will be accepted after 2:00 pm CDT Friday, March 29, 2019, unless Bench decides otherwise.
________________________________________

7.  Verification of picks is determined by Bench.  If he needs help, he will request it.
________________________________________

8.  If there is no correct pick Bench will find a winner by a method of his choosing.
________________________________________

9.  The previous year's winner is not eligible to pick.
________________________________________

10.   Here’s the list of past winners:

2018 - Ebby Calvin
2017 – Duman
2016 - WVastro
2015 – Fredia
2014 – HudsonHawk
2013 – Fynn
2012 – Ebby Calvin
2011 – no winner
2010 – Lurch
2009 - Ron Brand
2008 – EasTexAstro
2007 - no winner
2006  - Fredia
2005  - Drew Corleone
2004  - Andyzipp
2003  - Jim R
2002  - no winner
2001  - Neil T.
2000  - no winner
1999  - Astrobabe

Good Luck and may be the best fan win!

410
Talk Zone / Re: is there going to be a race for the lid?
« on: March 28, 2019, 11:20:50 am »
I'll do it.

411
Talk Zone / Re: is there going to be a race for the lid?
« on: March 28, 2019, 10:30:05 am »
Me too.

412
Talk Zone / Re: Good Ole JR (not Richards)
« on: March 27, 2019, 04:35:47 pm »
(Google indicates that the lead singer of Dishwalla was one JR Richards; seems a longshot that the OP was referencing this guy but he and his band are currently in Peru touring in support of a new album)

That band is a fucking time capsule to the late 90s.

413
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 27, 2019, 01:52:40 pm »

414
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: March 26, 2019, 11:04:09 am »
Correa a late scratch from today's game with neck stiffness.

Let's hope stiffness is very different than discomfort.

416
Talk Zone / Re: Dece piece on Bregs
« on: March 25, 2019, 11:41:45 am »
Verlander's advice probably applies to most people.  Get more sleep.

417
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 25, 2019, 10:07:40 am »
I hope Cole was at the brief press conference:

“This is the best organization in baseball. This is the best team in baseball.”

A HOF pitcher wants to stay in Houston.

Call me Pollyanna, but I hope someday the importance of team and organization will transcend more millions piled on top of already many millions. “I owe it my family” is bullshit. You and they already are set for life, and you are helping, not hurting, them if you stay in an environment in which you and they are happy. As for Cole, he has said and must recognize being in Houston made him the dominant pitcher he is today. His quote last year was spot on: “I would have never done this in Pittsburgh.” Springer and Correa have made their homes in Houston and are very active in the community. In the world my Pollyanna self lives in, all of these players should want to stay if the organization makes the sincere, good faith effort to keep them it has with the other extended players.

Crane and Luhnow have a plan. I am eager to see how it unfolds.

I can't tell from the article whether Verlander's line "It was something that was important to me,"  is about being one of the highest paid pitchers or just getting an extension. The context is not very clear.

418
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: March 25, 2019, 09:45:46 am »
Do you mean Euron? I find the actor that plays Theon to be quite talented and the charecter to be properly nuanced. However, regarding Euron... not so much on either point.

True but Theon sucks.

419
Talk Zone / Re: Good Ole JR (not Richards)
« on: March 23, 2019, 08:38:35 pm »

I figured this was about Jim Ross.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Same and I wasn’t ready for that death.

Is this thread really about being Cabrera’d? Amazing. 

420
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 22, 2019, 04:28:13 pm »
McTaggart tweet: 

The Astros could have a contract extension in place with Justin Verlander prior to end of spring camp, owner Jim Crane said Friday.

“I don’t think anything is final, but if it’s going to get done it’s going to get done before we get out of here," Crane said

421
Beer and Queso / Re: Podcasts
« on: March 22, 2019, 03:07:05 pm »
They were clearly working on something and they clearly thought it would work some day. But they represented that it was working at the time.

422
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 22, 2019, 02:48:45 pm »
We saw just the other day with Maldonado that this is not true.

There's a difference between relying on bad advice and not having the authority to reject the bad advice.

423
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 22, 2019, 09:34:51 am »
There's a press conference schedule for this afternoon with Crane, Luhnow, Hinch and a mystery guest, though I presume that will be the formal announcement of the Bregman extension.

424
Talk Zone / Re: Ichiro
« on: March 22, 2019, 09:33:09 am »
I don't think they're saying Ichiro and Henderson are from the same era, just comparing Ichiro to other great leadoff hitters.  And since we're comparing:

Ichiro: 291 2B, 79 3B, 1184 R, 98 HR, 633 RBI, 439 SB,
Henderson: 507 2B, 66 3B, 2244 R, 293 HR, 1100 RBI, 1384 SB

Ichiro was a great player, and a fine leadoff hitter.  But let's face it, he was no Rickey Henderson.  Not even in the same  league, career-wise, even.

Even if you add in Ichiro's Japanese stats it's not close:

Ichiro: 362 2B, 96 3B, 1420 R, 117 HR, 780 RBI, 509 SB
Henderson: 507 2B, 66 3B, 2244 R, 293 HR, 1100 RBI, 1384 SB


425
Beer and Queso / Re: Podcasts
« on: March 22, 2019, 09:25:59 am »
Is she crazy, malicious, longing to fulfill some childhood need, confront a trauma or something else. 

She dresses only in black, consumes her nutrients primarily in liquid form, and has a dog that is her spirit animal that must accompany her everywhere.

She's also a pathological liar.

426
Talk Zone / Re: Spring Training 2019
« on: March 21, 2019, 09:41:00 am »
what have you been doing the last year that was so important you are just getting around to reading Astroball?

Enjoying the championship season and then looking forward to this one.

427
Talk Zone / Re: Spring Training 2019
« on: March 20, 2019, 04:06:53 pm »
Irrationally exuberant about Correa getting over whatever he had last season.

I recently finished reading Astroball and I am very emotionally invested in a Correa bounce back season.

428
Beer and Queso / Re: Podcasts
« on: March 20, 2019, 01:17:20 pm »
I'm enjoying this recommendation very much! Thanks for the heads up on this one. I like the Food Channel's "You're eating this wrong" show so this was a good podcast for me to follow. Downloaded it to iTunes and got into it right away. BTW - the podcast on "Other People's Food" is very good. Kicking off with Chef Bayless and his "White Chef, Mexican Food" was the hook for me.

I'm so glad to hear it! The Bayless episode was very interesting. I've actually gone back and re-listened to the Aleppo Sandwich series because it was so moving.

429
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: March 15, 2019, 05:33:17 pm »
The less a character is picked, the more points they are worth.

Scoring is based on % of people who selected the character who dies.
10 points per death, multiplied by the % bonus.
Scoring example:
(If there are 10 people in the death pool)
7 people select character X, who dies. 10 points times 30% multiplier = 300 points
2 pick character y  who dies: 10 points plus 80 point multiplier = 800 points

That's awesome.

430
Beer and Queso / Re: Game of Thrones Season 8
« on: March 15, 2019, 05:11:46 pm »
Ive run one the last 2 years, its a lot of fun to be a part of.  Had 47 people in it for Season 7.  Probably be in the 60s this season.  We did $20 an entry.  Here is a link to the final scores if you are interested.   And if anyone here is interested in joining just email goftdeathpool @ gmail dot com

(dont click this HH)
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1KHrSwIr98mZgGiaR7xmJJZ9FKPXPfy8JR2CKwc6eMXI/edit#gid=1070022118

How do you assign the character points?

431
Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: March 14, 2019, 05:54:35 pm »
I just made the mistake of reading the comments on the MLB Trade Rumors announcement of the agreed-to rule changes. (Why did I do that? Never do that. They add nothing to your life.) There were no nuanced defenses of the three-batter policy; I've yet to see any nuanced defenses of it anywhere. People just say: I don't like pitching changes. But it seems to me that if you want to take away a tool baseball managers have had since the beginning you should probably have a steeper hill to climb than just saying: Well, I don't like pitching changes. Especially when there are undoubtedly less intrusive ways to finesse the issue. You should have to do better if you want to take decisions out of managers' hands. 

I find this weird rush to suddenly fuck with the game extremely depressing.

Here's the best defense I've come across:  The three batter minimum for relief pitchers is a good thing


432
Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: March 14, 2019, 03:35:38 pm »
If there is a runner on base with nobody out in the eighth and the Yankees bring in Betances to pitch, and he gets the first two outs and then the Red Sox send up Deavors to pinch hit and he hits a homerun while Chapman is standing there ready to go watching from the bullpen mound, Yankee fans will burn the fucking stadium down. And they should.


All of that sounds like a lot of fun to me.

433
Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: March 14, 2019, 10:49:11 am »

  • 2019: Inning breaks for local games shortened from 2:05 to 2:00, national games from 2:25 to 2:00

Well that's 1.5 to 7 minutes saved right there. Problem solved.

  • 2019: Mound visits reduced from 6 to 5

Fine.

  • 2019: If the All-Star Game goes into extras, each extra inning will start with a runner on 2B

Fine.

  • 2020: Aside from extra innings or blowouts, certain designated two-way players will be eligible to bat and pitch:
    • "A player can only qualify for this designation if he accrues at least 20 Major League innings pitched and at least 20 Major League games started as a position player or designated hitter (with at least three plate appearances in each of those games) in either the current or the prior season."

Whatever.

  • 2020: Minimum time off the roster for optioned or injured players extended from 10 days to 15 days (this one is basically "fuck you, Dodgers")

Fine.


434
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 14, 2019, 10:34:49 am »
I'm not a labor attorney, but I'm pretty sure unions are required to represent all employees in the bargaining unit fair and equally, not just union members.  These "free riders", as they're known around the shop, get the employer benefits derived from collective bargaining without having to pay for the representation.  That said, they also don't share in any union benefits, such as in the case of MLB, the union's take of merchandizing. 

And as for MLB players, no way they'd want to negotiate their own contract terms individually.  They have essentially zero power that way.

I'm also not a labor lawyer, but that's my understanding as well.  Is the pension an MLBPA benefit or just part of the CBA?

435
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 04:11:53 pm »
A question for nobody in general:  do players HAVE to join the union and conform to the CBA?

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.

436
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 02:39:33 pm »
But this isn't new. Just because you possess something of value that you earned doesn't mean you're hurting the free market by not participating in it. The free market is correcting itself by removing the stupidity.

It's definitely not new.  It just irks me when people refer to free agency as a free market.

437
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 02:35:23 pm »
There is the argument that allowing club control actually increases the market value of free agents.  That if every player were simply free agents every year, it would flood the market and drive down the price for mid-level players.  It would certainly level the playing field, and be more merit based, rewarding guys like Bregman and Snell, but it wouldn't reward mid-tier players the same way the current system does and for not nearly as long.

That could be. The NFL appears to have settled into a stars/scrubs dichotomy without a healthy middle class of players.

438
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 02:12:09 pm »
But Bregman isn't a free agent.  He was tendered a contract pursuant to the collectively bargained-for framework, to which he implicitly agreed the day he joined the MLBPA.   Luhnow's comment on Bregman didn't have anything to do with the free agent/market.

Luhnow is saying Bregman deserves to be paid more, which is a sentiment I doubt anyone would dispute.

The fact that the CBA allows teams to underpay players like Bregman is why teams don't have to pay free agents a true free market price.

439
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 01:28:56 pm »
Ignoring that your definition of "tepid", where players are getting hundreds of millions, and guys like Martin Maldonado are turning down $6 million/year, is slightly different than mine, by your logic, the free market can only go up exponentially, never at a slower rate, and heaven forbid, actually decline due to increased supply.

It's not a free market when the competition can be paid below market price.

440
Talk Zone / Re: Team Payroll 2019
« on: March 13, 2019, 11:52:01 am »
"That's just the nature of our industry right now. That's the world we operate in, and next year when he reaches arbitration, he's going to begin to get paid at the level he deserves."

This admission should be the rejoinder to anyone dismissing criticisms of the tepid free agent market as just a "free market at work."

441
Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: March 08, 2019, 01:22:52 pm »
Here's a summary of experiments they'll be running in the Atlantic League:

1. Computers will call balls/strikes

2. Pitching rubber extended to 62 feet 6 inches from home plate

3. The distance between bases will be shortened by 3 inches (by increasing the size of the bases)

4. Infield defensive shifts restricted by requiring two fielders on either side of second

5. Infielders also will be prohibited from setting up on the outfield grass

6. Each pitcher must face at least three batters or complete the half-inning, unless injured.

7. Between inning breaks will be cut from 2 minutes, 5 seconds to 1:45.

8. Mound visits are banned, except for pitching changes or medical issues.


Plate umpires will wear earpieces and be informed of ball/strike calls by a TrackMan computer system that uses Doppler radar. Umps will have the ability to override the computer, which considers a pitch a strike when the ball bounces and then crosses the zone. TrackMan also does not evaluate check swings.

442
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: March 07, 2019, 05:25:30 pm »
I don't think Dallas really wants to be an Astro. He wanted to be a free agent so bad he turned down a better offer from the Astros then he is going to get on the FA market. Then he passed on the QO. And now late into ST according to Ken and Buster, he is refusing a one and a two year offer.

I'm not sure about that. I think he just expected to get the type of deal he would have gotten four years ago.

443
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: March 05, 2019, 01:43:27 pm »
Seeing him come to bat in the top of the 9th was the most excited I've ever been to see a pitcher hit.

“Whatever you do, don't swing.”

444
Beer and Queso / Re: Nashville
« on: March 05, 2019, 11:48:29 am »
There's a Willie Nelson Museum near Opryland. I don't remember any  particular exhibit, but it was all Willie so it was all right.

445
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: March 05, 2019, 10:39:47 am »
I know what you mean. Over the last two years, I don’t know that I’ve felt prouder for any other Astros player than I have for CFM. Dude had been through a lot in his career and came out the other side on top in game 7 of the WS. He’s a champ on and off the field.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

CFM throwing unhittable filth the last three innings was one of the most thrilling things I've ever seen.

446
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: March 01, 2019, 03:22:26 pm »
Carlos Gomez finally fulfills his destiny to be a Met.

447
Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: March 01, 2019, 12:54:11 pm »
The NL East this offseason just became as competitive a division like the AL East. Where I would start to gauge the possible advantage one team might have over the others is to look at the starting rotation:

Washington: Scherzer, Strasburg, Corbin, Sanchez and maybe Ross or Fedee
Atlanta: Foltynewicz, Newcomb, Gausman, Toussaint, and Teheran
Philadelphia: Nola, Eickhoff, Velazquez, Pivetta, and Eflin
New York: deGrom, Syndergaard, Wheeler, Matz, and Vargas
Miami: Who cares?

Next would be an evaluation of defense and the offense. So just on starting pitching alone, I'd give the edge to the Nationals to stay competitive and quite possibly win the NL East (for now). What the NL East teams have done this offseason, however, is put the NL Central and West on notice that the wild-card contenders might all come from the NL East this season. It's not a far-fetched idea at this point. But like the Houston Astros faced in 2018 with an improved Oakland A's team, a good Seattle Mariners team and a somewhat enigmatic but still good Anaheim Angels team, having a tough division to play in means you're just going to have to find your wins early and often within the division and then look elsewhere. Houston won 103 games in 2018 primarily on having a record-setting starting five rotation. The offense was good but spotty. The defense was okay, but not spectacular. But the starting rotation was out of this world.

By adding Corbin and Sanchez this offseason, I'm thinking the Nationals made themselves a team to be reckoned with. IMHO of course.

Isn't Arrieta on the Phillies? They might still sign Keuchel too.

448
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: February 28, 2019, 05:25:49 pm »
Bud Norris has to settle for a minor league deal with the BJs.

Is that a Bob Kraft joke?

449
Talk Zone / Re: Preseason Panic
« on: February 28, 2019, 04:45:29 pm »
That's new-fangled stuff, like people wearing caps in restaurants.

And people partaking in activities rather than partaking of food or drink.

450
Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: February 28, 2019, 02:03:56 pm »
$330 million over 13 years. No opt-outs.

I hope we hear the story about how they arrived there.

451
Talk Zone / Re: Preseason Panic
« on: February 28, 2019, 09:25:32 am »
You all are surprisingly nonplussed about grammar.

452
Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: February 27, 2019, 04:16:49 pm »
Re-watched Dave a couple of weeks ago, still great.

The Ringer's oral history of the movie is fun.

453
Talk Zone / Re: Spring Training 2019
« on: February 27, 2019, 03:00:42 pm »
Did anyone else see Julia's interview with Straw today about the Tebow catch? They talked about that, then how much he hates running. Eventually she asked how he got his love for baseball. I'm paraphrasing, but it went:

"I was about 3, and my dad would throw tennis balls to me. The first time I ever picked up a bat ..."

You can tell here he's wondering if he should tell this.

"The first time I picked up a bat, I hit the ball and bounced it off ... well, an inappropriate spot on him." Julia trying to keep a straight face. "And I guess I thought it was funny, so I kept doing it, and ever since then baseball's been my dream."

He mostly kept a poker face through the whole thing.

That's fucking hilarious.

454
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 27, 2019, 02:36:15 pm »
Weren't they planning on going to 26 man rosters?

They were planning on considering it.

455
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 27, 2019, 02:15:13 pm »
I'm now wondering what has been the increase in profit from said revenue. Any info on that, anyone?

I think largely TV revenue.

456
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 27, 2019, 02:14:17 pm »
Also, while making the case that Cohen is a low-life cheat and crook, do any of these Republican interrogators ever wonder why Trump hired him as his personal attorney, and kept him on for over a decade?

Another apt joke making the rounds is along the lines of "if you think Cohen is sleazy just wait till you hear about his clients!"

457
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 27, 2019, 10:59:41 am »
Every time I get a chance to listen to Cohen's testimony, it's a Republican raving about the messenger.  If there is one Republican, who actually asks Cohen a substantive question in a real effort at Congressional oversight, it should be front page, top fold material in all the major rags.  Seems as if the entire party is grifters, grovelers and clowns.

What's funny to me is that they are trying to dismiss Cohen as a "convicted liar" when the lie he was convicted for is "Trump did nothing wrong."

458
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 27, 2019, 10:21:52 am »
I understand the players are upset about the discontinuation of crazy 10 year deals but the CBA hasn't been all bad for them. 
in 2011, average MLB salary was 3.095 million.  Last year, that number was 4.52 million.  That is 46% increase. 


At the same time, MLB revenue increased from $6.36 billion in 2011 to $10.3 billion last year. A 62% increase.

459
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: February 27, 2019, 10:17:05 am »
My least favorite thread to appear.

460
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 27, 2019, 09:59:16 am »
That confuses me. Wouldn't this have been part of Mueller's work?

I haven't been following the Cohen testimony, but if the election fraud is Stormy Daniels type campaign finance fraud, I think that would fall outside the purview of Mueller's investigation which is focused on foreign interference in the election.

461
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 25, 2019, 11:00:32 am »
What else would look an awful like the last two season is the free market at work.  Maybe this is simply what the market will pay.

The problem is that it's not a free market when most of the players are under club control. I agree with MM that most likely every front office arrived at the same conclusion, but systemic issues regarding how player mobility is tightly restricted at the early (and usually most productive) stage of a player's career are why everyone arrived at the same conclusion. The problem isn't going to go away, and a work stoppage seems pretty likely if the equities don't get balanced out before the expiration of the current CBA.

462
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 22, 2019, 03:52:17 pm »
It's amazing the different stripes of corruption on display in this administration. Trump's secretary of labor broke federal law in order to cover up for Trump's millionaire serial child molester buddy. 

463
Talk Zone / Re: JV and Cole
« on: February 22, 2019, 03:48:55 pm »
I guess we'll just have to have him come back in and explain everything for us.

But that would disqualify our guesses.

464
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 22, 2019, 01:48:10 pm »
No way. There are no secrets in a deposition.

I don't expect there to be an express agreement, but if there were one--or even a tacit agreement--I think its outward manifestation would look an awful lot like the past two off-seasons.

465
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 22, 2019, 01:31:43 pm »
Most of what I’ve heard/read so far is that he will have the same daily utility role he had with Houston.


I had no idea that Rocco Baldelli is the Twins manager.

466
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 22, 2019, 01:30:41 pm »
I'm surprised he didn't find better but maybe (like others) he overplayed his hand early and by the time he was willing to get real about a deal, possible suitors early moved to plan B and were no longer viable destinations.

Either that or all the teams secretly agreed to avoid competitive bidding for free agents.

467
Talk Zone / Re: JV and Cole
« on: February 22, 2019, 01:13:16 pm »
I'm sure that if MM were not the one who came up with "Drama Queen," he certainly was around for his crowning and was only using the fast-food metaphors for comic effect.

I thought it was the opposite of a Qualifying Offer.

468
Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: February 21, 2019, 09:51:13 am »
Yeah, my mind doesn't work like these guys either.  They act like they need a long-term contract for "security."  Give me one year at thirty million and I am more than "secure."  I'd take a short-term deal with a club that tries to compete and at the end of that deal, I'd do it again until I couldn't do it any more.  Never have to get stuck for long on a team that doesn't want to compete.

I've always wondered what a guy like Harper's carrying costs are. I assume he has a team of people that work for him individually, expenses, etc. in addition to lifestyle.

469
Beer and Queso / Re: Dating App
« on: February 16, 2019, 10:19:26 pm »

470
Talk Zone / Re: Arb-Eligible Players 2018
« on: February 14, 2019, 11:14:58 am »
To the contrary, Bauer said that the arbitration hearing was fine until the last ten minutes which he described as “character assassination.”  He’s a fairly precious guy but if I were an employer I would work hard to avoid instilling such feelings. Credit to the Astros for being professional.

471
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 12, 2019, 03:29:28 pm »
That's a lot of money! To me at least, but I'm not making millions to play a game.

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

472
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 08, 2019, 02:44:40 pm »
I wish you would post links to a lot of the stuff you post here.  Not saying anything about the veracity at all, it's just nice to read a bit more detail and if I want to share it with someone I know where to find it.  I do appreciate your and other's running commentary in this thread.

The Link

Whitaker found a friendly face in Rep. Louis Gohmert (R-TX), who seemed to question why he was even testifying.

“I don’t know what kind of suicide wish you had or whatever but it’s good to see you,” he said.

Gohmert then read Whitaker portions of his opening statement about crime and the southern border, which the acting attorney general failed to recognize.

473
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 08, 2019, 02:15:27 pm »
I almost don't believe you.

Almost.

It's not as if Louie has ever had an original thought himself.

474
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 08, 2019, 11:52:26 am »
Trump's Bedminster golf course employed so many undocumented workers for so long that there's an entire village in Costa Rica built on those paychecks.

“My whole town practically lived there.”

475
Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: February 08, 2019, 11:46:38 am »
I agree but stepping in and out of the batters box 7 times per at bat is more fucking around or stalling than actually playing the game. I understand the mental aspect of stalling but it delays the action, and it has increased over the years. Same as taking 25 to 35 seconds to pitch a ball. Stalling ain't playing.

This.  That each pitch takes longer than it used to is on both the pitcher and the batter.

476
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 08, 2019, 11:07:50 am »
He's trying to pull a Kavanaugh but he doesn't have a friendly chairman to protect him like Beery Brett.

Nor does he have the protection of lifetime tenure by getting through the process.

477
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: February 07, 2019, 03:09:52 pm »
Rangers sign Hunter Pence to a minor league deal with an invite to major league camp.

478
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2018
« on: February 07, 2019, 02:32:43 pm »
Barry Switzer turned them down?

You'd think Dave Campo would be available.

479
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2018
« on: February 07, 2019, 01:44:09 pm »
XFL Commissioner Oliver Luck announced that Bob Stoops will be the head coach and GM of the Dallas XFL team.

This is all so gloriously dumb.

480
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 07, 2019, 01:22:27 pm »
From CNN:

Damn, just like one of Trump's criminal associates.  What does he have to hide?  Crooked motherfuckers, all of em.

Doesn't really seem like a good strategy going forward. How does the "acting" AG and his team not know how subpoenas work?

481
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 07, 2019, 09:29:43 am »
For example, they are looking into whether any foreign power or person has any influence over any member of the Trump administration. 

Turkey, Saudi, China, the list goes on.

482
Talk Zone / Take it Back!
« on: February 06, 2019, 01:01:50 pm »
That's your awkward slogan for the 2019 Astros. In other news, the Astros are adding another entrance at home plate with 12 additional turnstiles, which is long overdue.

Dollar hot dog night returns to Tuesdays.

483
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 06, 2019, 12:54:05 pm »
And while I'm at it, remember the recent story about 95,000 voters that were voting illegally in Texas?  Yeah, it was false.  Total bullshit, created by people trying to twist facts to fit their preconceptions.  When called to justify the data, they hem-haw, acknowledge that it's not accurate but maintain that they are still trying to ascertain the "correct number."   

Just like the "border emergency," "illegal voting" is a complete fucking lie told by immoral pieces of crap to keep the torches of their ignorant followers fully ablaze.

Limey were you on the list?

484
Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: February 06, 2019, 12:52:43 pm »
People who measures these things, say there has been insignificant increase in commercial time since the 80s. The actual game is taking about 30 minutes longer on average.

Grant Brisbee's comparison (which I've posted before) is the most interesting, but doesn't give a clear answer.

Every pitch takes longer. That seems to be the main culprit to me.

485
Talk Zone / Re: Tacos Across America
« on: February 06, 2019, 09:18:27 am »
It was so cool that he had mobilized his charity to provide help for Harvey victims before he was even traded to the team.  Just a remarkably kind and gracious person.

486
Talk Zone / Re: Dominican Baseball Article
« on: February 05, 2019, 05:21:14 pm »

Sometime around the point that newspapers decided they didn’t need paywalls, we as a society forgot the phrase “you get what you pay for.”


For any online service that you use but don't pay for, you are not their customer. You are their product.

487
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 04, 2019, 03:38:34 pm »
Kate doesn’t seem especially LA.


She seems to have a "been there done that" attitude about it.

488
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 01, 2019, 03:09:57 pm »
(Assuming they sign JV for 1 year and Cole long term)


I hope this is not a reasonable assumption. If Justin Verlander pitches anything like last season and can only get a 1 year deal I'll consider striking with the players.

489
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 01, 2019, 09:48:43 am »
They may be considering adding another starter but also puts Miley in the mix with James and Valdez for the 4th and/or 5th starter.

Someone needs to replace Smith's role in the bullpen too. Not necessarily Miley, but the added depth to both rotation and bullpen might push someone else to step up into that role.

490
Talk Zone / Re: Grass 27, Artificial Turf 3
« on: February 01, 2019, 09:22:02 am »
This is really shocking to me. Is there a common perception that clubs are doing this to enable them to rent out the stadium during the offseason to events that would otherwise destroy the grass? Whatever the case, it makes me proud of the home nine for bucking the trend, and nervous that they won't always!

In Phoenix the driving concern (reportedly) was conserving water usage. Not sure about Arlington.

491
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: January 31, 2019, 05:22:24 pm »
In actual 2019 Astros roster news, they've signed LHP Wade Miley to a 1-year, $4.5 million deal. No option or anything.

Here's an article about how Miley reinvented himself last season.

The simple answer is that Miley, 31, discovered the “cut” fastball, or cutter, as it is known in baseball circles. It is an en vogue pitch that has transformed the careers of many pitchers but was particularly crucial for Miley because it gave him a pitch he could bury in on right-handed hitters, sawing off their bats.

-----

Last season, Miley threw his fastball 53 percent of the time, according to FanGraphs. This year, he has thrown it a mere 20 percent of the time, while throwing cutters at a 42 percent rate. Miley also is using his curveball and changeup more, trying to keep hitters off-balance.



492
Talk Zone / Re: Jackie Robinson
« on: January 31, 2019, 04:44:41 pm »
Journey indeed: you gotta read this about Deac and his wife Virginia's experience when he played in the Sally in 1961-1962. Powerful shit.

Also as that article notes, the man still holds the record for highest batting average (.409) in Midwest League history. And he did it despite suffering an arm injury.

Thanks for posting that.  Amazing story.

493
Talk Zone / Re: Jackie Robinson
« on: January 31, 2019, 11:41:36 am »
The Main Street Theater in Houston is putting on a performance of Jackie and Me, which is a play about Jackie Robinson geared towards upper elementary to high school kids, but I'm sure enjoyable for anyone. Following the Sunday February 17 matinee there will be a discussion with former Astros coach Deacon Jones about his experiences meeting Jackie Robinson and his own baseball journey. I'm sure it will be great.

494
Medicare-for-All looks like it's going to get a proper airing in the 2020 process - at least on the Democratic side.  Kamala Harris said recently that she doesn't see private insurers being involved going forward.  This got some pushback from Michael Bloomberg, saying it would bankrupt the country.  It's an interesting and, dare I say it, naive take.

The simple truth is that if you add up all the healthcare premiums paid to private insurers, plus all the deductibles and copays etc. that come out of the pockets of policyholders, you get to roughly the same number as the $32 trillion scare-number that is used against M4A.  The difference being that the M4A proposal insures everyone, while the private insurance number includes trillions of dollars of corporate profit.

I don't understand the business objection to M4A.  Providing health insurance to its employees is a massive cost to an employer and, because the ACA was a private insurance hybrid, the law had to take steps to stop employers of a certain size from throwing their employees off their own insurance and onto the exchanges.  So employers clearly would be happy to be relieved of the burden.

Maybe it comes down to the tax policy that would pay for it, or the fact that people unshackled from their employers' plans would be more free to change jobs or break out and start up their own businesses.  I really don't know.  But the Bloombergs of this world misunderstand the process (accidentally or on purpose) because they speak as if no new money would be put into Medicare to pay for its new beneficiaries.  That's not how this works.

If you'd forgotten how much you hate Joe Lieberman, here's a little reminder:  the ACA was going to allow a Medicare buy-in for people aged 55 or older.  That meant that those eligible could buy health insurance from Medicare as a competing insurer to Kaiser Soze Permanente etc.  That would be a powerful option both to control the cost of insurance for older Americans and allow people to do things like retire early.  The vote to enact this fell one short in the Senate; that vote being Joe Lieberman's.

But the blueprint is there.  Allow people 55 and older to buy-in; then 45 and older; then 35 and older.  You get the picture.  Creeping appropriation of the private insurance market into the wildly popular, wildly cost-effective Medicare system.  Yes, this sucks for health insurance company employees and HR staff (sorry Zipp) but that's no reason to leave millions without access to healthcare and tens of millions more on the brink - or actually plummeting into - bankruptcy because of an illness.

Isn't there still a fairly robust private health insurance market in places like Canada and the UK?

495
Schultz' roll-out has been a disaster.  For example, he declined to answer a question on tax policy because he doesn't want to discuss hypotheticals.  WTF?  At this point, that's your only job!

But you're right, he's a corporatist, pretending to be a social liberal, running to stop actual liberals from increasing his taxes.  He's also the only way that Trump gets a second term, and it's scaring the living shit out of me right now.

It's telling that his logo is his printed name with his signature on top of it. He seems to have little regard for anything that he doesn't perceive as affecting him.

I can imagine a scenario where he draws votes away from Trump for people who think the Democratic candidate is too liberal and would otherwise begrudgingly vote for Trump. But the fact is that a billionaire running a hopeless independent campaign is purely a vanity project.

496
Talk Zone / Re: Cuba trip with some details
« on: January 29, 2019, 05:38:30 pm »
Going there solo and not on a cruise from the US is not the easiest thing. Is it easier from Panama? Are you a dual citizen?

It was my understanding that US citizens could only go on a group basis for educational purposes, rather than basic individual tourism.

497
He was going to stand firm on his demands but his bone spurs flared up.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I assumed Geezerdonk was referencing the is he/isn't he a combat veteran discussion about the Native American elder.

499
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 HOF Ballot
« on: January 25, 2019, 02:37:45 pm »
Maddux, I think.

Apparently Yogi and Catfish too, which is odd. Yogi played all but one year with the Yankees, and while Catfish finished the last few years of his career on the Yankees when I close my eyes I see him in green and yellow.

500
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 HOF Ballot
« on: January 25, 2019, 02:29:15 pm »
I think it's odd that Mussina and Halladay will have blank caps on their plaque. Is there anyone else with a blank cap (excepting those who played before there were team logos on caps)?

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