1
Talk Zone / Re: More controversy
« on: November 24, 2019, 03:49:47 pm »What the fuck would Brandon Backe know?Yeah, must be a bunch of Clouseaus
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2
Beer and Queso / Re: College Football 2019
« on: November 23, 2019, 09:16:50 pm »Very much enjoying that shyster Tom Herman eat a steaming pile of shit.I’m not enjoying it. At all.
Starting to see the flaws you mentioned years ago; having trouble remembering what I thought his strengths were.
3
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 20, 2019, 02:51:43 pm »
Also, it has to sting the Republicans that Schiff gets to rip everyone a new one to conclude every day. Elections have consequences.
4
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 20, 2019, 02:45:18 pm »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.Yeah, I didn’t see much of today’s stuff other than Schiff and Goldman. They should have jumped on this more, as it clearly illustrates Trump’s priority, as you’ve pointed out.
5
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 18, 2019, 10:31:52 am »
What’s the medical news?
6
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: November 17, 2019, 04:58:24 pm »
I’m fully expecting an acquittal in the Senate with some Republicans joining the Dems, but the good thing about the public hearing is that almost everyone listening will know that what he did was dead wrong. They’ll also know that if Obama or Clinton had done that, they’d have lost their job for sure. So, it will be basically be distilled down to “We’ll never turn on our criminal.”
That’s fine and all, but that cynicism and criminal abatement comes with a cost. May be naive, but that’s my hope.
That’s fine and all, but that cynicism and criminal abatement comes with a cost. May be naive, but that’s my hope.
7
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: November 17, 2019, 12:24:05 pm »
The NFL has no fucking balls. Just admit that sometimes officials can be dead wrong.
8
Beer and Queso / Re: College Football 2019
« on: November 13, 2019, 09:06:51 pm »Higher than 5? No one.Geez, SEC hype over the years has hypnotized too many people. There is no argument for Alabama that doesn’t amount to “they played LSU close at home” all while sort of ignoring that the “closeness” was a result of a kick return and a late bomb. Other than that, they got beaten all over their own field by the only good team they’ve played, but yeah, they are deserving.
As long as LSU beats Georgia, the Tide should be in.
My thesis is the committee's worst nightmare is not being able to get them in.
9
Beer and Queso / Re: College Football 2019
« on: November 12, 2019, 09:21:36 pm »
I figure Alabama is done unless the P12 tanks before their championship. If they beat Auburn, that’s all they’ll have to argue, and that’s a weak argument.
10
Beer and Queso / Re: College Football 2019
« on: November 11, 2019, 06:45:17 pm »Playing press coverage, up by two scores, with 1:21 left...when the ONLY thing that can beat you is a quick score, say and 85-yard touchdown pass ON THE FIRST PLAY of the drive...is inexcusable. It's just horrible, horrible coaching, irrespective of the talent level. They may not have stepped on their dick, but not for lack of trying.You are absolutely correct on that; it was inexcusable. My focus was more macro on their D throughout the year.
11
Beer and Queso / Re: College Football 2019
« on: November 11, 2019, 06:26:42 pm »
LSU and Arranda did what they needed. I don’t think it’s dick stepping; it’s just their talent level this year, coupled with the explosive offenses they’ve faced.
Congrats to the Tigers, btw. A big monkey off their back.
Congrats to the Tigers, btw. A big monkey off their back.
12
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: November 03, 2019, 12:50:19 pm »Good win by the Texans today. Rest up.It was. I don’t follow the specific prognoses that closely, but I’d love to see those DBs, Tunsil and Fuller back. Need em all to make a playoff push.
13
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: November 03, 2019, 09:32:36 am »
That was one of the most creative drives of BOB’s tenure. The Jags were flummoxed by the end.
Too bad it was punctuated with a typical miscue.
Too bad it was punctuated with a typical miscue.
14
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 10:15:00 pm »
Just piece a few good ABs together and get rid of all the long faces in the dugout.
15
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 10:04:11 pm »
I don’t care what Kendrick did, I walk Soto.
16
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 09:27:23 pm »
Hell of a job by Zach. Too bad the offense is anemic.
17
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 09:22:50 pm »
Nice gun by Carlos.
18
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 09:12:44 pm »
Surprised as this move, but AJ is a master.
19
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 09:09:05 pm »
Nice call blue!
20
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:58:47 pm »
I don’t see enough to overturn, but I’m a homer.
21
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:57:51 pm »
Nice job Carlos, One gets by Rendon, sort of. Fucker still saved a run.
22
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:54:05 pm »
Come on Carlos, just shoot one oppo.
23
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:38:49 pm »
Dude is cat quick. One of the fastest off the mound that I can recall.
24
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:17:38 pm »
Where’d you hear this?
And, of course there won’t be repercussions.
And, of course there won’t be repercussions.
25
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 08:15:48 pm »
Surprised Greinke threw a 3-0 cookie, but ended well.
26
Talk Zone / Re: Game 7
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:07:12 pm »
If true, I’m having trouble understanding the strategic benefit of this. Just to get inside the Astros’ heads prior to game 6?
27
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 7, October 30, 2019
« on: October 30, 2019, 07:04:57 pm »I have promised my self not to get distracted with white hot rage at every stupid thing that Joe Buck says.Before I hit the mute to get the radio going, he was already yapping about them as some (insert superlative) underdog. Give me a break.
His opening Nats sack-gargle is already challenging that position though.
28
Talk Zone / Re: Game 7
« on: October 30, 2019, 01:03:35 pm »Well said. I would add please keep Trea Turner off the base paths.Yeah, him and that dude after him. Having empty bases for the confident Rendon and Soto is so important.
29
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 10:01:16 pm »
I’m listening on the radio. Who’s the guy they keep showing in the stands?
30
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 09:46:34 pm »
That is reviewable, but Sanchez’ shit isn’t?
31
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 09:25:38 pm »
What a great statement by Brad, and this ump is fucking awful.
32
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 08:07:15 pm »
Guy is a good player, but an annoying dick, shaking his head like that after the strikes.
Time to add on.
Time to add on.
33
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 6, October 29, 2019
« on: October 29, 2019, 07:13:06 pm »
Another good defensive play.
34
Talk Zone / Re: WS 2019
« on: October 28, 2019, 12:08:42 pm »
Yeah, elimination put a fire under them, all postseason, and it’s been impressive and the sign of a good team. Taking care of business tomorrow would be a sign of a maturing, great team.
35
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 10:16:17 pm »
Crushed that one.
36
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 10:11:15 pm »Pinch runner?I was half expecting it.
37
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 10:10:48 pm »
Could use some insurance Kyle.
38
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 10:03:13 pm »
Sweet!! I figured Eaton was a bad matchup for Smith, but inning is over with a zero.
39
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 09:59:40 pm »
That scared the crap out of me. Another meaty 0-2.
40
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 09:45:44 pm »
Damn, Alex. Yuli needs a pick him up.
41
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 09:19:26 pm »Fuck you, arod.While I agree with the sentiment, what brought this up?
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42
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 08:35:11 pm »And J J Watt is out for the season. Torn pectoral muscle. This is pretty much the end of his career.Jeez, that’s a body blow.
43
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: October 27, 2019, 08:33:37 pm »
Was Gaetz on his knees during the shot?
44
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 08:15:18 pm »Baseball savantThanks
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45
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 5, October 27, 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 08:03:02 pm »Exit velocity:This question is about three years too late, but where is this data provided in real time?
Cole 99
Springer 104
Altuve 58
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46
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 27, 2019, 06:30:50 pm »
Pretty gutty win there with that MASH unit going, and what a final drive to burn the clock!
47
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 10:59:50 pm »
Urquidy with a World Series W. That’s a nice story.
48
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 10:46:51 pm »
Motherfucker! I’ll see myself out.
49
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 10:45:47 pm »
I’m starting to figure that Soto doesn’t have an accurate arm.
50
Beer and Queso / Re: College Football 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 10:40:33 pm »
It was ugly and the natives are restless.
An Astros win would ease my pain. Actually, it’s more resignation than pain.
An Astros win would ease my pain. Actually, it’s more resignation than pain.
51
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 10:37:12 pm »
Just throw fucking strikes.
Thank you Brad.
Thank you Brad.
52
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 10:13:08 pm »What a play by Gurriel!Apparently watching a badass fielder.
Where the fuck was Peacock?
53
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 10:07:02 pm »Good grief.No shit, I need to relax and Rendon didn’t help one bit.
54
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 10:02:11 pm »Three hard hit balls, two outs.I hope their fans enjoy it as much as I did.
55
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 09:31:26 pm »Technology is proving what we already know: people suck at calling balls and strikes.But at least they do it quickly. I guess with robot umps, the call won’t be made as quickly, so they’ll just play those things out and sort it out later.
56
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 09:22:07 pm »Now what? Who sees nine outs in the bullpen?Sounds like Smith is up next. They can extend him if he is successful, but a bunch of runs would help things tremendously.
57
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 08:53:48 pm »My aunt just received her last chemo treatment and is going to beat the odds against pancreatic cancer.That’s great news
58
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 08:52:16 pm »
Sparks seems to think he’s done also, but I wouldn’t pull him.
59
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 4, October 26, 2019
« on: October 26, 2019, 08:07:54 pm »Urquidy defended that bunt well.Sure did. Guy has some defensive skills. Saved him a run.
60
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 11:15:38 pm »They've hit the ball hard in each game.Hope those start to fall tomorrow and I hope the seeds of failure are planted in the Nats, and most importantly, go Urquidy!
Knock holes in their gloves.
61
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 10:56:49 pm »
Never mind on that one. I’m confusing productive relievers.
62
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 10:55:18 pm »He’s married to Allie LaForce. Don’t underestimate Joe Smith.Damn, that’s a factoid I didn’t know. Is she an LSU grad also?
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63
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 10:46:39 pm »
This isn’t the first time they’ve used Smith over Pressly in the post season, iirc.
64
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 10:18:08 pm »I’d give Harris another if his spot doesn’t come up in a key situation this inning.Yeah, your sort of on the edge if you don’t. More runs would help.
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65
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 09:55:53 pm »
Do the fans have a hand gesture for that?
66
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 09:36:24 pm »Nice AB, Tucker.Sure was. After flailing at the first two, I was sure he was done.
67
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 09:27:59 pm »
Doubling up on the change was pretty bold by Josh.
68
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 08:51:38 pm »
Damn fine fielding there. Time for the bats.
69
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 08:38:46 pm »https://twitter.com/pitchingninja/status/1187903739258134535?s=21Not sure those are related but watching it and thinking about Zach’s personality, that’s pretty funny.
70
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 World Series, Game 3, October 25, 2019
« on: October 25, 2019, 08:15:09 pm »Is that a situation where he is reading, or being told, or guessing breaking ball?Carlos is always guessing, IMO. If he was a see ball/hit ball guy, he’d be a top 5 player.
Because it's un-freaking-believable to take that pitch.
71
Talk Zone / Re: Latest Controversy
« on: October 22, 2019, 08:23:51 am »
Is boorish behavior by an employee really this much of a crisis, that will consume the series? I maintain there’s a lot of ground between evil apathy and righteous outrage.
72
Beer and Queso / Re: College Football 2019
« on: October 21, 2019, 06:48:58 pm »Orlando needs to go yesterday.Prior to this year would have been preferred by me. That’s about as disorganized group of good athletes as I’ve seen. Merely adequate defensive coaching would have given them a puncher’s chance at making the playoff. Instead, they’re fighting to be considered as good as Baylor and Iowa State.
73
Talk Zone / Re: WS Rotation
« on: October 21, 2019, 04:54:22 pm »
Sorry if this cabrera’d, but have the rosters been announced? Is Pressly in? Also curious if Straw might make it.
74
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 20, 2019, 03:45:35 pm »
BOB called timeout #1 for the safety, then timeout #2 would have been after 1st down, timeout #3 after 2nd down, then a clock rundown to the two-minute warning after third down.
Not a big deal; it’s just further evidence how simple, basic things are beyond their grasp.
Not a big deal; it’s just further evidence how simple, basic things are beyond their grasp.
75
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 20, 2019, 03:28:38 pm »It cost them about 5 seconds. But still...No, Indy punted at 1:49 instead of at 2:00. It didn’t matter though, the Colts fucking own them and were destined to win this game.
76
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 20, 2019, 03:04:33 pm »
I can sort of see the safety logic, but not using the TOs before the 2 minute warning is bizarre. It’s cost them 11 seconds that every dumbshit on the sidelines should have predicted.
77
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 20, 2019, 02:12:14 pm »
Third and long against this defense, absolutely no problem. They will either commit a penalty or leave someone wide open with a lot of room to run.
78
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 6, October 19, 2019
« on: October 19, 2019, 11:02:54 pm »
Who is left to pitch?
Rondon and ??
Rondon and ??
79
Talk Zone / Re: Changes coming to Minor League Baseball
« on: October 19, 2019, 12:10:39 pm »
I wonder what the long-term effects will be and how significant they will be. In the US, I assume marginal college guys will play four years and then be out of work and marginal high schoolers who might get drafted late will play college. Marginal international players will likely be affected the most. I guess they develop where they are from, if those types of leagues exist.
80
Talk Zone / Re: Greinke
« on: October 18, 2019, 12:43:16 pm »
Yeah, he did a great job. It has to give him some more confidence that he can perform in these big games.
81
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: October 18, 2019, 09:24:46 am »
I have no love for Biden, and his son profiting off his dad’s position is bullshit, although is just one turd compared with Trump’s truckloads. However, I take exception to the characterization that he “quashed” it. The report I saw said he didn’t want to deal with it while his other son was dying.
Any rate, I assume Biden is done, especially if the opposing narrative is that our politicians are opportunistic scoundrels that need serious checks. I also hope is clarifies the Dem race as a race between Warren and someone more moderate, whoever that turns out to be.
Any rate, I assume Biden is done, especially if the opposing narrative is that our politicians are opportunistic scoundrels that need serious checks. I also hope is clarifies the Dem race as a race between Warren and someone more moderate, whoever that turns out to be.
82
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 11:21:14 pm »Alvarez can't check his swing and strikes out. 2 outs.Seemed like a really bad call to me. Like the ump just wanted to get to the hotel.
83
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 11:07:56 pm »Who? Peacock? Rondon? Abreu?Radio says Urquidy is warming.
Maybe if Bregman parks one here.
84
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 11:07:09 pm »Bring in someone other than Osuna for the 9th?I hope not, but AJ knows best.
85
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 10:28:53 pm »
Damn, they’re melting down. So sweet.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 10:16:31 pm »
Ball boy is a butcher.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:57:56 pm »It makes it spectator interference, and it's not an automatic double. The umps place runners where they think they'd have reached if there were no interference. LeMahieu had already stopped at 1B.Thanks for the explanation. Since AJ stayed silent, I’d assumed it was automatic.
As James strikes out Judge to end the inning.
88
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:24:05 pm »It's about to be 4-3 Yankees at least.Nice balancing of the cosmic forces.
Hinch trusts Pressley too much.
89
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:23:05 pm »
Getting that from Presley was so welcome. Hope it continues into the future.
90
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 4, October 17, 2019
« on: October 17, 2019, 09:08:12 pm »I cannot bring myself to follow a lagging feed while the truth is out there somewhere. I don't know how people do it. Makes for a kinda discordant collection of media here, but...how do people do it?With MLB at at, you just pause the radio feed. If it’s the actual radio, I’d just watch on mute.
91
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 3, October 15, 2019
« on: October 15, 2019, 07:00:04 pm »Nice Greek chorus by NY fans during the postgame Fox panelIt sounds so sweet.
92
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: October 15, 2019, 04:06:31 pm »
So, one of those two associates arrested earlier had a company which paid Rudy $500,000 last year. I wonder what Rudy did to earn that? Nothing, it’s just naked corruption.
The company’s name was Fraud Guarantee. Can’t make this up.
The company’s name was Fraud Guarantee. Can’t make this up.
93
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Championship Series, Game 2...October 13, 2019
« on: October 13, 2019, 11:57:14 pm »Make up call
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Should be. Blind motherfucker.
Get a run.
94
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 13, 2019, 07:10:41 pm »I’m bummed about Howard. The line has been improving and gelling, and he’ll now miss a year it seems.I read that he didn’t tear his ACL but there will be further tests. Maybe he’s not done.
95
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 13, 2019, 03:14:50 pm »I guess that tells you all you need to know about Fairbairn.I give BOB credit for actually running the ball in Q4, when they could’ve continue to shred that defensive secondary.
Good win. Defense stepped up huge in the 2H, and the Texans continue to run the ball far better than I think anyone thought they could.
96
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 13, 2019, 03:11:43 pm »Gutsy move by BOB. The number-of-plays and time-of-possession stats are amazingly one-sided. KC's defense is pretty bad.It would have been a real shame to lose that one. Congrats to them and hope that some of the injuries aren’t too serious.
97
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 13, 2019, 03:06:14 pm »
Will they even let him kick? Even if he makes it, he should be gone by Monday.
99
Talk Zone / Re: ALCS Rotation
« on: October 11, 2019, 09:28:28 am »
These are tough and interesting decisions. I’m glad AJ and Luhnow are making them.
100
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 5...October 10, 2019
« on: October 11, 2019, 09:24:55 am »
Didn’t help Carlos at all. I think he stared at two meaty fastballs, layed off one curve and swang at the next one in the dirt.
101
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 5...October 10, 2019
« on: October 10, 2019, 09:46:17 pm »Cole is ridiculous.I turned to the radio feed in game 1 and never looked bad.
Why you guys listen to the tv broadcast is totally beyond me. Just irresponsible decision making.
102
He's been mostly successful in the few times he's been asked to do it. It gets forgotten because they were already down and never came back but he threw 4 scoreless innings against the Astros in game 7 to give the Dodgers a chance to come back. Had been scoreless in his last 3 postseason relief appearances before last night.Thanks. That makes the move seem reasonable, IMO.
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103
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: October 10, 2019, 11:23:33 am »
I just don’t trust anything Barr does, or allows. So, either he’s setting up Rudy to take a fall for Trump (which won’t work) or he just allows these guys to be arrested because it’s better than having them testify.
106
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: October 08, 2019, 11:00:36 am »
I found this interesting, in that it is a sign of new cracks in the armor:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2019/10/08/trump-danger-losing-mandate-heaven-over-syria-decision-pat-robertson-warns/
That’s Pat Robertson, using inflammatory language directed at Trump, rather than directing it at Trump’s opponents. I realize he is crazy and this is not Ukraine-related, but if there starts to be cracks in the the crazy support, what’s left?
https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2019/10/08/trump-danger-losing-mandate-heaven-over-syria-decision-pat-robertson-warns/
Quote
The president, who allowed Khashoggi to be cut into pieces without any repercussions whatsoever, is now allowing the Christians and the Kurds to be massacred by the Turks,” Robertson said. He additionally blasted Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan — with whom Trump has a friendly rapport — as a “thug” and a “dictator.
That’s Pat Robertson, using inflammatory language directed at Trump, rather than directing it at Trump’s opponents. I realize he is crazy and this is not Ukraine-related, but if there starts to be cracks in the the crazy support, what’s left?
107
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 3...Octobrr 7, 2019
« on: October 07, 2019, 12:51:26 pm »
Not sure what Jose was doing there. Have to get the lead runner.
108
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 2019 American League Division Series, Game 3...Octobrr 7, 2019
« on: October 07, 2019, 12:25:08 pm »A break! Bad throw by Diaz, but Choi has to stop that.Choi is brutal. He looked like a novice on that play.
110
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: October 06, 2019, 03:01:32 pm »
They are doing their best to make an easy victory hard.
111
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: October 02, 2019, 09:18:33 am »
He is a psycho
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/01/us/politics/trump-border-wars.html?action=click&module=Top%20Stories&pgtype=Homepage
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/01/us/politics/trump-border-wars.html?action=click&module=Top%20Stories&pgtype=Homepage
Quote
Privately, the president had often talked about fortifying a border wall with a water-filled trench, stocked with snakes or alligators, prompting aides to seek a cost estimate. He wanted the wall electrified, with spikes on top that could pierce human flesh. After publicly suggesting that soldiers shoot migrants if they threw rocks, the president backed off when his staff told him that was illegal. But later in a meeting, aides recalled, he suggested that they shoot migrants in the legs to slow them down. That’s not allowed either, they told him.
112
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 27, 2019, 07:58:22 pm »
I’m starting to contemplate that the Senate may actually remove him. A week ago,I thought the chance was zero; it’s definitely above zero now. We hear quotes saying that 30 Republican Senators would vote for removal if it were a private vote. I also read a quote from a Republican house member from Nevada who isn’t on board with impeachment, but wants to gather facts and said:
Once Republicans publicly float language like this, you know things are changing behind the scenes.
Quote
it would be a “problem” if it was “proven” that Trump used government agencies to “put (his) finger on the scale of an election.”
Once Republicans publicly float language like this, you know things are changing behind the scenes.
113
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 27, 2019, 06:29:43 pm »I don’t really disagree, but it’s not as clear as the core crime and is just going to distract from what people can clearly understand. We don’t need this to be about whether people can blackmail Trump.
The national security issue is serious. If Trump is involving foreign governments in his illegal schemes that he then covers up, they have leverage over him.
114
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 27, 2019, 12:50:06 pm »
Some press are now trying to couch this as an issue of national security. They’re also hung up on the cover up. They’ve already lost their focus.
Sure, one can argue that there are national security issues here, and sure, all criminals try to hide their deeds, but the issues here are abuse of power and undermining democracy. Even the Trump camp knows this. That’s why they tried to cover it all up.
Sure, one can argue that there are national security issues here, and sure, all criminals try to hide their deeds, but the issues here are abuse of power and undermining democracy. Even the Trump camp knows this. That’s why they tried to cover it all up.
115
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 26, 2019, 04:01:51 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."In the past, a lot of the populace viewed these types of statements as tough guy shit, they might of even admired it. I bet that threshold has been, or will shortly be crossed where these statements are increasingly viewed as the ramblings of a terrified man.
116
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 26, 2019, 10:22:33 am »The problem is you're trying to use logic. Stop that.
Impeachment is bad. Very bad. It's an admission that your elected officials have betrayed you and it's a permanent black mark on democracy as a whole, so there better be a damn good reason for it. Getting a blowjob, or little bits of corruption, do not rise to the level that would make most people accept that tradeoff. It has to be far, far worse than simply encouraging meddling in the election. Unless there are Russian tanks rolling down Pennsylvania Avenue, it will simply piss people off. Their reaction is not logical.
I agree that logic doesn’t predominate. Thus, your conclusion may yet become true. But, I doubt most people will see “simply encouraging meddling in the election” as insignificant. It fits neatly into populist anger that the system is unfair, and used and abused by the powerful to their advantage.
117
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 26, 2019, 08:58:07 am »
I just tuned in to this guy’s testimony. I realize he was in an extremely tough position, but Schiff is eating him alive, in a very sedate manner. The Dems should give all their time for questioning to him, as he’s one of their few professionals.
118
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 25, 2019, 07:13:56 pm »
I don’t get this fear at all. Being impeached for this isn’t going to help him. Seriously, anyone who is moved toward Trump by this was already a solid Trump voter already.
Democrats need to exercise some muscles and get in the ring once in a while.
Btw, I agree that Warren benefits from this the most, both cause she has balls and because it fits neatly into her anti-corruption themes.
Democrats need to exercise some muscles and get in the ring once in a while.
Btw, I agree that Warren benefits from this the most, both cause she has balls and because it fits neatly into her anti-corruption themes.
119
Talk Zone / Re: Choose Wisely
« on: September 25, 2019, 01:56:14 pm »Correa is to ask for Machado/Harper money, and is not going to settle for less than Bregman money.You’re likely correct, although both of those guys seem overrated and over paid. Bad deals by the signing teams.
120
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 25, 2019, 09:23:12 am »
Recent history repeating itself.
Trump claims he will release the transcript of one call and the whistleblower complaint. The press jumps all over it, trying to figure out if this one “transcript” is a smoking gun. Of course, it is likely doctored by the White House, incomplete and most importantly, one piece of what will be a lot of evidence. The strategic release of this incomplete evidence will provide an opportunity for Trump and his minions to put out the smokescreens and build up tribal passions.
Next, they will delay the release of the complaint for bogus reasons and delay any other evidence from coming out, thereby stalling and stringing out the investigation and allowing them time to distract from the central abuse of power.
I know that the press in unable to keep their eye on any ball for long, but I sure hope Dems can.
Trump claims he will release the transcript of one call and the whistleblower complaint. The press jumps all over it, trying to figure out if this one “transcript” is a smoking gun. Of course, it is likely doctored by the White House, incomplete and most importantly, one piece of what will be a lot of evidence. The strategic release of this incomplete evidence will provide an opportunity for Trump and his minions to put out the smokescreens and build up tribal passions.
Next, they will delay the release of the complaint for bogus reasons and delay any other evidence from coming out, thereby stalling and stringing out the investigation and allowing them time to distract from the central abuse of power.
I know that the press in unable to keep their eye on any ball for long, but I sure hope Dems can.
121
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 24, 2019, 04:20:06 pm »
I stopped listening to Pelosi’s address as she totally lacks the rhetorical power of persuasion. She is terrible, IMO: this isn’t about whistleblowing; this is about what should be a clearly understandable abuse of Presidential power.
Don’t muddy the fucking waters.
Don’t muddy the fucking waters.
122
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 24, 2019, 09:00:00 am »There's also speculation that John Bolton is the whistleblower. Strange bedfellows, etc.Well, at least we can all agree that he is a raging Democrat.
123
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 22, 2019, 06:47:33 pm »Huge 2nd half gives the Texans the victory. 2-1 after a tough 3-game start.It was nice to see. Hope they build on it.
I thought the DL looked real good and the OL better than expected.
124
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 22, 2019, 05:09:49 pm »
Bed shitting throughout, not just the 3rd quarter.
This team mirrors BOB: flashes of decency, but ultimately stupid and undisciplined under stress. Mediocrity is their ceiling.
This team mirrors BOB: flashes of decency, but ultimately stupid and undisciplined under stress. Mediocrity is their ceiling.
125
Game Zone 2019 / Re: 9/22 Angels v. Astros Spring Training in September
« on: September 22, 2019, 01:56:38 pm »
He is such a big time player. Shows up when needed.
126
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 20, 2019, 04:43:30 pm »At what point do Republicans decide to put country over party?
Never. A question without an easy answer is whether Pelosi/Dems will do a damn thing about it.
127
Talk Zone / Re: Imelda
« on: September 19, 2019, 10:08:50 am »
Damn, I hope everyone in the GT area is safe. I hadn’t realized til now just how much rain they’ve got.
128
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 10, 2019, 02:44:50 pm »I still say Mike Renfro was in bounds.He was. Houston fans should forever dress as officials and be motivated by “revenge.”
129
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: September 10, 2019, 10:26:26 am »I'm just hoping that he's useful next year.Me too. Luhnow has a tough task for next year as many of the possible solutions are question marks: current starters who are free agents, a Framber who didn’t advance and a Whitley who also didn’t advance. They’ll need Lance.
Thankfully, we can focus on the positives of the here and now.
130
Game Zone 2019 / Re: As v. Astros 9/9/19
« on: September 10, 2019, 08:51:13 am »What a great interview with Chirinos.
It was. Then we get Alvarez and the odd Greinke to top it off.
131
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 10, 2019, 08:49:22 am »
That bit (if that is what is being discussed) at the end of the first half didn’t hurt the Saints. If they kept playing, their little two yard gain to get the first down would have taken up more time than the rules/refs took from them.
There’s something to HH’s point. I’ve always liked the Saints, but the whining has gone past the point of reasonableness.
There’s something to HH’s point. I’ve always liked the Saints, but the whining has gone past the point of reasonableness.
132
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: September 10, 2019, 08:44:26 am »Oh, and in case you missed it, the CIA had a spy deep inside the Kremlin, to the point where he was close enough to Putin to be able to photograph papers on his desk. In 2017, they exfiltrated him in a panic that Trump would accidentally (on purpose) blurt out his identity to someone - probably a Russian - and get him killed.This, and the hurricane bullshit are so fucking problematic and likely historical stories. But he’s numbed me and most of the country so much that it’s just Monday’s story.
Screw all those who willingly brought this upon us.
133
Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: September 09, 2019, 09:29:33 pm »Also amazing is the coaches handing the Saints an automatic 10 yards with 6 seconds left to set up that FG.Three dudes way deep. What were they thinking. Fucking depressing.
134
Talk Zone / Re: Tucker In August
« on: September 06, 2019, 09:01:52 am »Brantley's walkoff will probably get more attention, but the Astros lose in 9 innings or 12 innings without Tucker. Nice night for him.
It was quite a night. Hopefully, it’s a great confidence boost and pressure relief for him.
135
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: September 06, 2019, 08:58:13 am »ETA: Whitley is back in RR and will start game 5 if it gets that far.That would be interesting. A pressure filled situation for him.
136
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs The Dry Dockers Sept 5 2019
« on: September 05, 2019, 11:02:22 pm »
This would be a good time for a run.
137
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs The Dry Dockers Sept 5 2019
« on: September 05, 2019, 10:48:32 pm »Will they pitch to The AAAA OF w/ a ML HR w/ Chirinos and Marisnick behind him?Serious?
138
Talk Zone / Re: Tucker In August
« on: September 05, 2019, 04:22:31 pm »
Other than Appel, he is the most underwhelming Astros prospect in recent years, but I guess there is still time.
139
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: August 29, 2019, 02:35:54 pm »When they let other things, like allowing themselves to be in bed with one of the parties, get in the way of the fullness of their job they compromise themselves and end up fucking over their own impact.It hasn’t hurt FOX’s impact.
140
Talk Zone / Re: Greinke
« on: August 24, 2019, 08:29:34 am »
Not on topic, but related to Greinke.
I figure there isn’t enough data for the Astros to draw conclusions, but based on the few games I’ve seen, the typical Astros shifting and ground balls off Greinke are at a mismatch. It just seems that he has been screwed over numerous times, and I can’t recall it benefiting him. Maybe it’s just a small sample, or maybe ground balls off him are outliers from the bulk of other pitchers
I figure there isn’t enough data for the Astros to draw conclusions, but based on the few games I’ve seen, the typical Astros shifting and ground balls off Greinke are at a mismatch. It just seems that he has been screwed over numerous times, and I can’t recall it benefiting him. Maybe it’s just a small sample, or maybe ground balls off him are outliers from the bulk of other pitchers
141
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: August 23, 2019, 04:08:54 pm »The President of the United States is decompensating right in front of us, but THIS IS FINE.New day, new shit. I found this excerpt in a WaPo article on Trump further fucking up trade. It’s sadly funny:
Quote
”The instruction for U.S. firms to leave China was quite stunning. I’m completely surprised by it,” said Alison Acosta Winters, senior policy fellow at Americans for Prosperity, a conservative group. She said there was “tremendous concern” among lawmakers, including congressional Republicans, about the direction of the trade war, which has hogtied the world’s two most powerful economic engines for more than a year.
Rather than owning the libs, this is something new. Their fucking monster is tearing more shit up and there will be more damage to follow.
142
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 23, 2019, 09:02:09 am »
To me, even the last K illustrates Whitley: very inconsistent or losing his delivery from pitch to pitch.
I think I saw peak Whitley last year, where he had almost a full game of repeating his delivery and only a few short stretches where he lost it. I’ve also seen ass Whitley this year where he couldn’t throw two pitches in a row the way he intended. Now, he seems back to having a bit more good stretches than bad.
My hope, even from last year, is that it is related to body type (lanky with a somewhat uncoordinated lower half) and it will improve with physical maturation and repetition.
There’s been talk about his immaturity and maybe that’s true and a fatal flaw. Hope that’s not the case, cause when he repeats, he dominates.
I think I saw peak Whitley last year, where he had almost a full game of repeating his delivery and only a few short stretches where he lost it. I’ve also seen ass Whitley this year where he couldn’t throw two pitches in a row the way he intended. Now, he seems back to having a bit more good stretches than bad.
My hope, even from last year, is that it is related to body type (lanky with a somewhat uncoordinated lower half) and it will improve with physical maturation and repetition.
There’s been talk about his immaturity and maybe that’s true and a fatal flaw. Hope that’s not the case, cause when he repeats, he dominates.
143
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers v. Astros 8/22 The First Game of The Abraham Toro Era
« on: August 22, 2019, 10:00:08 pm »
Wow, this is brutal.
144
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 12:25:26 pm »
Damn. That really sucks. I thought, given how well he threw in the last ones, that his knee was healed.
145
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 22, 2019, 09:51:53 am »
Can’t they just remove Mayfield from the 25, and if not him from the 40, there are some arms that are options.
146
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros- August 21, 2019
« on: August 21, 2019, 09:33:36 pm »Really? Run with whom?Didn’t they have Reddick available?
147
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: August 21, 2019, 11:18:42 am »Mayfield?Isn’t he a replacement for Diaz?
148
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros- August 20, 2019
« on: August 20, 2019, 10:01:07 pm »Since "discomfort" is the what all the cool kids are doing now, I'm wondering if Josh is trying to play through some of it...He’s been looking pretty frustrated/pissed off in the last few weeks. I would expect different reactions if he knew it was caused by an injury. Looks like he could use a few days off.
149
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Tigers at Astros 08/19/2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 10:07:39 pm »
One stressful inning there.
150
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 05:38:31 pm »Didn't see any explanation.
Mayfield's up and playing 2nd tonight. Regular day off per McTaggart.
Hmm. I didn’t even realize he was brought up. I guess that undercuts the “Diaz injury is fake” theory.
151
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 03:40:39 pm »
Did anyone ever hear an explanation of Altuve’s base running in the first, either from him or Hinch?
152
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 03:06:20 pm »He gets a bad rap on stuff like this. He goes first to third on singles just like faster player do. He also is a decent OFer.This can’t be emphasized enough. I’m not sure why people that see him play everyday think he’s a slug and a DH only. I’d prefer to see him in front of Bregman also, or Yuli, rather than Correa.
153
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 19, 2019, 08:29:01 am »Have they ruined this guy?I am certainly worried about him and his future, but I don’t buy into the narrative that they did anything wrong.
154
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 05:58:44 pm »
Finally, great game by all, especially Greinke and Bregman.
Shitty road trip, but that W kept it from being near catastrophic.
Shitty road trip, but that W kept it from being near catastrophic.
155
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 05:35:13 pm »
Some insurance would be welcome.
156
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 05:18:05 pm »
Watching cannon throws is my favorite part of baseball, usually from OFers, but that was also special.
157
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 04:16:48 pm »
Damn, what a stress relief that was. I was going crazy.
158
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 03:49:11 pm »
Alvarez looks terrible vs this dude. Carlos needs to pick him up.
159
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 03:35:51 pm »Interesting poll.Interesting also in that there is no Altuve. I get it, but it’s odd to exclude the player with the most hits over the last years.
My choice is Brantley.
160
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A’s, August 18, 2019
« on: August 18, 2019, 03:27:07 pm »Looked like Altuve expected the throw to go into 2nd and he could just jog home. Should have been running hard.If he’s not injured, it is likely something like this, which is pretty inexcusable.
161
Game Zone 2019 / Re: ASTROS @ ATHLETICS, AUGUST 16, 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 11:03:04 pm »
That’s a positive development. Make use of it.
162
Game Zone 2019 / Re: ASTROS @ ATHLETICS, AUGUST 16, 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 10:26:56 pm »
I was sure it was gone. Hope that’s a sign that tonight will be different.
163
Game Zone 2019 / Re: ASTROS @ ATHLETICS, AUGUST 16, 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 10:05:32 pm »
Carlos needs to make them pay for pitching around Alvarez.
164
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 16, 2019, 09:49:40 am »Looks like it’s Whitley tonight according to MiLBHopefully, it’s the good Whitley. Last start was ass.
165
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at White Sox 08/14/2019
« on: August 14, 2019, 01:47:50 pm »
It’s been a long time since I saw this kind of shit from this team. Plenty of time to turn it around though.
166
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at White Sox - 8/13 Game 1
« on: August 14, 2019, 12:57:02 pm »
Has anyone heard an update regarding Cole?
167
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at White Sox - 8/13 Game 1
« on: August 13, 2019, 07:01:21 pm »Did I see them rolling out the tarp after the game ended?Probably, looks like a storm coming, but not enough to force a rainout
168
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at White Sox - 8/13 Game 1
« on: August 13, 2019, 05:24:50 pm »
Damn, I hope it stands. Bad tag by the pitcher.
169
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: August 12, 2019, 01:56:33 pm »
I’d add Peredes to the list of pitchers. Good luck on finding probables. They used to have a gamenotes document that had it, but now you are left to a day-of lookup on MiLB. You could also email the media contact and get a helpful response and likely info. I haven’t done it with the Hooks, but the Express guy is responsive and it’s the same ownership group.
Enjoy, it’s a nice park and relatively pleasant even on hot summer days.
Enjoy, it’s a nice park and relatively pleasant even on hot summer days.
170
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: August 11, 2019, 12:40:13 pm »Or like the vigor of the James McDougal death while incarcerated. Or a combination of the two.Damn, some people can’t get past their Clinton paranoias. An oddity of the human species.
171
Talk Zone / Re: espn and fairydust
« on: August 06, 2019, 04:53:48 pm »Ah, the pitcher of ice cold water has arrived. Sell your TV, and simply rely on data.Really, you took my comment as some reliance on data, and not my eyes? Maybe your TV showed you the next CFM. My TV showed a good outing against a bad club.
172
Talk Zone / Re: espn and fairydust
« on: August 06, 2019, 03:37:07 pm »
I’m waiting for more data. He pitched well in his last starts prior to the trade, and it was the Mariners after all. It’s seems likely that he is better than what we had, and that curve ball was real nice, but it seems a bit early to conclude much more than that.
173
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Whitley
« on: August 04, 2019, 06:13:52 pm »
His first Corpus appearance is complete:
4 IP, 2H, 1ER, 2BB, 5K, 1HR, 1HBP
69 pitches, 43 Strikes
4 IP, 2H, 1ER, 2BB, 5K, 1HR, 1HBP
69 pitches, 43 Strikes
174
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Seamen at Astros, August 4, 2019
« on: August 04, 2019, 02:47:17 pm »
He needs to lose that Florida chain. The panhandle might puncture him on a slide.
175
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 03, 2019, 09:02:38 pm »Roughly same as the 4seam. Average velocity on those to are separated by about .3 mph. Remember when McCullers would throw 90-91 mph change ups? It's not the mph difference by itself that makes the change up effective, it's the arm action paired with a slower spead. You would like a 10mph difference but most guys these days only have a 5-7mph difference, some less.Thanks. Not sure I totally agree with the theory on the change. Lance had good movement, but poor command, but even today, most effective ones are more than 3 mph slower than the pitcher’s FBs.
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
176
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners @ Astros, August 3, 2019
« on: August 03, 2019, 08:56:08 pm »
I doubt it will happen, but Tal Smith should get serious consideration for the Astros Hall of Fame.
177
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners @ Astros, August 3, 2019
« on: August 03, 2019, 08:51:40 pm »Jim Wynn is the Name That Astro,I remember meeting him at an Astros caravan at UT in the 80s. I was in awe.
178
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 03, 2019, 08:39:46 pm »He's normally 94-96 on the 4seam and 88 on the change upWhat’s his two seam normally at? Tonight, he’s 93-94 with his four seam, about 86 on his good changes, and those ones around 89-91, I guess are just bad changes.
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
179
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 03, 2019, 06:54:55 pm »He definitely is throwing a changeup. You can tell it from his grip.Well, I stand corrected. It still doesn’t function like a most changeups I see from pitchers throwing 92-94 on their four seamers.
180
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 03, 2019, 06:40:28 pm »
Well, maybe they differentiate between a two seamer and a sinker, but I don’t. I’m also not calling his 89 mph pitch that moves like a two seamer a change up.
181
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 03, 2019, 06:31:53 pm »Obviously only 1 inning but pretty telling that his most used pitch pre-Astros was the sinker and he threw exactly zero sinkers in his first inning as an AstroHe threw some sinkers, and four seams.
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
182
Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 03, 2019, 02:44:26 pm »His catch was a 15% catch probability and the Phillies first 5 star outfield catch this yearThat’s great.
183
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 02, 2019, 05:41:31 pm »I didn't realize it until last night, but apparently Biagini is incredibly popular with fans because of his funny, deadpan interviews. There are compilation videos of his comments. So we also basically got a stand-up comedian to spar with Julia.They just showed a clip from him at the press conference with all the new additions. He seems like a unique and entertaining one.
EDIT -- Here's a video
184
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top Prospect Lists 2018-2019
« on: August 02, 2019, 10:15:41 am »
I’m surprised that Pena hasn’t moved up. I’ve never seen him play, but if he really can field SS, then he seems appealing.
185
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 01, 2019, 09:57:17 pm »
Was Sneed already optioned?
186
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: August 01, 2019, 09:08:25 pm »Ok. Outside of Osuna, Pressly, and Harris, this bullpen is very mediocre. I'm really hoping Biagini works out.Smith is good.
187
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Cleveland
« on: August 01, 2019, 08:37:53 pm »
Man, I remember Machete had an arm, but damn that was a great throw. If Carlos had been on time, Puig was out taking a stupid risk.
188
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Cleveland
« on: August 01, 2019, 08:19:22 pm »Was Francona ejected too?No, something medical with his eyes.
189
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Cleveland
« on: August 01, 2019, 08:12:41 pm »
That was so needed. Now add a couple more.
190
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Cleveland
« on: August 01, 2019, 07:07:19 pm »Correa must have been sitting fastball 3-1, cause that was a cookie.Pure BP pitch. Correa is still a guesser. He will never see a meatier pitch.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Cleveland
« on: August 01, 2019, 06:45:27 pm »A single followed by a gapper at the wall for the Tribe, but lead runner is gunned down at the plate. Score it 7-6-2 on the put out at the plate.A thing of beauty.
Need to unload on this pitcher. He may have been good once, and might be in the future, but he’s trash tonight.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: August 01, 2019, 03:53:24 pm »does he primarily play corner IF? I was wondering if he had Rojas' versatility?He doesn’t. Mainly third and second.
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Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: August 01, 2019, 08:46:06 am »May have been covered in the trade thread but I didn't have time to search .....Nice to see that he went 5 giving up only 1 run, and Albers and Hader each pitched a scoreless inning last night in the Brewers victory over the A’s.
Jordan Lyles traded to the Brewers. It seems like this guy has been around for ever but he is still just 28 years old. He performed well for the Brewers last year after the trade deadline. Hoping to catch the magic again.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: New & Improved Astros v. Cleveland 7/31
« on: July 31, 2019, 07:18:04 pm »
Urquidy’s tempo really takes a hit from the stretch. More so than the typical slow down you see with runners on.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 06:08:54 pm »Sanchez was pretty highly thought of at one point in time. He may have the worst stats in the majors right this minute, but it is going to be very interesting to see what Strom can do with him. I fully trust Luhnow and Strom to make this work. And as strange as it my sound, I’m almost as excited to see what they do with him as I am that we got ZG.
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I don’t follow these things closely, any idea what’s behind Sanchez’ troubles?
Also, as a side note, is Maldonado there tonight or is it only Chirinos?
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 05:01:23 pm »
What’s the deal on adding them to the 25 man, time wise? Can they sit in limbo for a period, and if so, how long? Is it just til tomorrow?
I assume since Urquidy is going tonight, they’re in limbo right now.
I assume since Urquidy is going tonight, they’re in limbo right now.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 03:58:52 pm »His power is well above Moran. In many other ways they are similar.
You’re correct. I was just unimpressed by the guy, but I’m often wrong.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 03:48:53 pm »Beer is looking like a good hitter. But his overall game is VERY similar to Alvarez. It would be tough to have both on the team at the same time.Admittedly, I only saw two games, but Beer and Alvarez are not in the same universe with the bat. Beer’s ceiling is about like that third baseman we dealt to the Pirates.
I'm not sold on Bukauskas. Martin is the big one if he comes back strong. Rojas was blocked here.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 31, 2019, 03:34:56 pm »traded Beer, Josh Rojas Corbin Martin, Bukaskas and cashThis seems like a great trade, IMO as Beer and Bukauskas seem marginal to me, Martin is hurt and Rojas might be good, but not a great need for us at the moment.
200
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Whitley
« on: July 31, 2019, 02:57:48 pm »
https://www.milb.com/milb/news/forrest-whitley-rebounds-in-dominant-start-for-fayetteville-woodpeckers/c-309557544
A write up on his outing and what has been going on. Seems like a retooling of his delivery, at least according to him.
A write up on his outing and what has been going on. Seems like a retooling of his delivery, at least according to him.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: July 30, 2019, 09:55:52 pm »
Yes, nice to see Framber pitch well. He still has talent and potential.
202
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: July 30, 2019, 09:54:54 pm »
I recorded the debate, to watch after the Astros game. CNN is fucking atrocious. Instead of a lead in where you educate the public, then ask a question designed to ferret out differences between the candidates, they ask a stupid gotcha question on a misunderstood topic. Then, the candidates are forced to try to reframe the question in a way that might stir useful discussion, but before they can they are interrupted by the dipshit CNN morons.
Seriously, this type of debate is a disservice to all.
Seriously, this type of debate is a disservice to all.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Whitley
« on: July 30, 2019, 08:11:58 pm »
Very efficient too: 57 pitches, 39 strikes.
Hope he’s found his groove back.
Hope he’s found his groove back.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at Tribe - July 30, 2019
« on: July 30, 2019, 07:15:58 pm »
Bieber was pretty much a steal as a 4th round pick in 2016. Lots of teams missed on him.
205
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 30, 2019, 03:21:18 pm »• 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 divisionThe other reasons may be important, but this one far outweighs them. Enough so, I’m shocked that any contender would entertain the idea.
206
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Whitley
« on: July 29, 2019, 12:28:00 pm »Whitley's line in Fayetteville:
3.1 IP, 1 BB, 2 H, 2 ER, 2 K. Retired 8 in a row at one point.
Good to see the walks going down.
What day was this?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Cards 07-28-19
« on: July 28, 2019, 04:08:27 pm »Good job by Hector. Especially working around the error.Yeah, getting a scoreless while facing the heart of the order was big. Wonder who throws the eighth? Devo, Smith?
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Talk Zone / Re: Our info source
« on: July 28, 2019, 04:02:43 pm »Much ado about nothing.Yeah, pretty much textbook nitpicking.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Cards 07-28-19
« on: July 28, 2019, 03:54:31 pm »Stassi is as automatic an out as it gets.We really needed more than that after that error. Need to make that cost them.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Cards 07-28-19
« on: July 28, 2019, 02:51:32 pm »
Great out by Miley as Martinez is a pretty tough hitter to get pitches by. At least appears that from what I’ve seen this series.
211
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros search for The Fountain of Youth
« on: July 27, 2019, 09:21:46 pm »
Wait, did Molina really say that?
212
Talk Zone / Re: Tyler White traded to the Dodgers
« on: July 25, 2019, 05:41:19 pm »
I’m a bit surprised that the Dodgers have a spot for him on their 25 man roster. I don’t watch them often, but I was under the impression that their roster was loaded.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: July 24, 2019, 07:15:42 pm »It's so fucking crazy. The report is pretty clear and should have provoked impeachment hearings the day after it was issued.
No doubt. Pelosi was really gone all in on a dangerous hand. Come election time, Trump will say he did nothing, otherwise the Democrats would have impeached him. There is some validity to that assertion, in an odd way.
I don’t have a good idea on the election, but it looks more favorable toTrump today than it did a year ago.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: July 24, 2019, 07:10:58 pm »
Thanks for the report. I haven’t seen Rojas play but I’ve heard pretty positive things from someone who see a lot of games. Sort of Marwin like, is what I was told.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: July 24 v. As
« on: July 24, 2019, 03:55:51 pm »
He did. A few days off will be good for him.
216
Game Zone 2019 / Re: July 24 v. As
« on: July 24, 2019, 03:53:20 pm »
Wow, made me nervous but got the job done. A good win.
217
Game Zone 2019 / Re: July 24 v. As
« on: July 24, 2019, 03:37:49 pm »
Needless to say, but that DP was much needed. A scoreless 8th for A’s. On to the 9th, 4-1.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: July 24 v. As
« on: July 24, 2019, 03:08:03 pm »
That strike 3 was sweet. After failing to bite on two sliders out of the zone, feeling proud of himself, JV freezes Laureano with one down the middle.
219
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: July 23, 2019, 10:07:37 am »
Of course, I was wrong. Research yielded this, starting in 2020, the same year it goes from 25 to 26:
I don’t know where I heard the expanded roster idea, with on 25 available each day, but it doesn’t appear to be in the works.
Quote
Elimination of 40-man active roster limit in September. From September 1st through the end of the championship season, all Clubs must carry 28 players on the active roster.
I don’t know where I heard the expanded roster idea, with on 25 available each day, but it doesn’t appear to be in the works.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: July 23, 2019, 09:51:23 am »It seems like a no-brainer to me. The only wild card is if Kemp gets included in a trade which is entirely possible.I agree that it’s seems like a no-brainer. I thought this year rosters expand, but each day, it will be limited to 25. I could easily be wrong though.
Is this the last year that rosters expand in September?
221
Game Zone 2019 / Re: A’s @ Astros - July 22, 2019
« on: July 22, 2019, 09:38:01 pm »
Has Reddick played at first base this year?
222
Talk Zone / Re: Our info source
« on: July 22, 2019, 10:59:21 am »
Is he head of major league scouting? Anyways, the Giants are hot and probably not sellers and fuck the cubs.
223
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros July 21, 2019
« on: July 21, 2019, 03:11:45 pm »
Hope James is OK, but the velocity loss is concerning.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros July 21, 2019
« on: July 21, 2019, 02:03:40 pm »
I wonder if the Rangers unload Choo. That guy is really good. Seems like some contender could use him. Maybe eat his salary and get some prospects back.
Mainly, I’m sick of seeing our pitchers throw to him.
Mainly, I’m sick of seeing our pitchers throw to him.
225
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 19, 2019, 10:35:39 pm »Urquidy. Tyler White was just DFA’d and Urqiudy will take his spot and start tomorrow.Hmm. He’s kind of hot and cold. Hope he’s due for a hot outing.
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Talk Zone / Re: Astros just DFA’d Tyler White
« on: July 19, 2019, 10:31:23 pm »
I give them credit for doing this and not playing the options excuse and sending down Straw.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 19, 2019, 10:26:26 pm »Orbit.If I were the Rangers, I’d see if he can field a bunt.
Armenteros is listed for Sunday
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 19, 2019, 10:14:59 pm »
Has anyone heard who’s on the mound tomorrow?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 19, 2019, 09:59:45 pm »Bregman hit in the head with a FB.Indeed. My mind can never forget Dickie Thon.
Scary shit.
But he's ok.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 19, 2019, 09:54:03 pm »
Nice.
Pet peeve. If a dude is 6’8” or close, that rectangle needs to go above his belt. They use the same one regardless of the batter.
Pet peeve. If a dude is 6’8” or close, that rectangle needs to go above his belt. They use the same one regardless of the batter.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 19, 2019, 09:39:59 pm »
Never mind. Kalas enlightened me.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 19, 2019, 09:39:07 pm »James warning up.Is one of the Pressly/Osuna pair not available?
Let's get him some more runs to work with.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Rangers @ Astros, July 19, 2019
« on: July 19, 2019, 09:35:19 pm »
Surprised to see Pence not bite on four pretty good sliders. I haven’t watched him close this year, but that isn’t the Pence I remember.
Time to get the bats going again.
Time to get the bats going again.
234
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Whitley
« on: July 19, 2019, 01:07:52 pm »
Another bad line in a GCL start:
2.2 IP, 1 H, 2 ER, 1 R, 6 BB, 5 K, 0 HR
I’m assuming what’s going on is a mechanical work over, but that’s just my uneducated guess.
2.2 IP, 1 H, 2 ER, 1 R, 6 BB, 5 K, 0 HR
I’m assuming what’s going on is a mechanical work over, but that’s just my uneducated guess.
235
Talk Zone / Re: 4th starter
« on: July 19, 2019, 09:24:38 am »That's my thought as well. Try to get two, maybe three, from James, and go from there. And hope the offense shows up.Seems like the right thing to do, and if you’re not going to trade for two starters, then gradually start extending him to eventually be a starter. While he is useful in a setup role, having Smith and McHugh back has shored up that role and freed James up to be a starter, IMO.
236
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-18-19
« on: July 18, 2019, 10:01:22 pm »At least Altuve made up for his defensive mistake with his bat!!That rivaled one he had a couple of weeks ago. How such a great hitter like hims has ABs like that is baffling. Like Tiger Woods whiffing on a tee shot.
237
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: July 18, 2019, 01:51:59 pm »One of my favorite bands in a past life was a bunch of misfits from Dayton, OH, called Guided by Voices. They have a song called Closer You Are. The chorus goes, The closer you are, the quicker it hits you.Is that Bob Pollard’s band? My buddy really liked them and him and I recall numerous stories about how much he valued beer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTEcNruLS3Y
Played live, when the singer was drunk as hell, which was pretty much always, he would sometimes sing these lines instead:
The fatter you are, the smaller your dick looks.
Not sure why that suddenly occurred to me.
238
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: July 18, 2019, 01:48:23 pm »
On the mound:
Donato - low 90s FB with average secondaries. He did seem to grow stronger throughout the game and does seem like a guy that outpiches his ability.
Peredes - small dude. Kind of a slinger with a live arm. Kind of wild, but FB and SL are impressive. 97 or so on the FB and high 80s SL. Both with a lot of swing and miss. Saw a few curves and what I assume were changes, but they need improvement. Overall, i really enjoyed watching him. I’m thinking he’d be in the pen if he makes it, but he’s someone I want to follow.
Collado - sidearmer with high 80s FB and low 80s breaking ball. Doesn’t light up the gun but he was impressive, sort of dominant in his 3 innings. Another to keep an eye on.
Donato - low 90s FB with average secondaries. He did seem to grow stronger throughout the game and does seem like a guy that outpiches his ability.
Peredes - small dude. Kind of a slinger with a live arm. Kind of wild, but FB and SL are impressive. 97 or so on the FB and high 80s SL. Both with a lot of swing and miss. Saw a few curves and what I assume were changes, but they need improvement. Overall, i really enjoyed watching him. I’m thinking he’d be in the pen if he makes it, but he’s someone I want to follow.
Collado - sidearmer with high 80s FB and low 80s breaking ball. Doesn’t light up the gun but he was impressive, sort of dominant in his 3 innings. Another to keep an eye on.
239
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: July 18, 2019, 01:34:21 pm »
Saw a couple of Hooks games against the Travelers who are a Royals affiliate.
Little of note for the position players, but:
Dawson only played in one of the games I saw. He plays a nice CF. Good jumps and coverage. He also hit an oppo homer.
Toro generally puts the ball in play, but not a lot of hard hit balls.
Beer had one hard hit ball. He’s probably a good hitter, but I didn’t get an inkling of that skill, let’s of rollover grounders. He better be a good hitter because his other skills won’t carry him upward.
Shaver seems like his bat is OK.
In the hitter’s defense, they were going against the two Florida Gator pitchers who were recent Royal’s high picks. Kowar has good stuff but below average command in this outing. Singer has average stuff with good command.
Little of note for the position players, but:
Dawson only played in one of the games I saw. He plays a nice CF. Good jumps and coverage. He also hit an oppo homer.
Toro generally puts the ball in play, but not a lot of hard hit balls.
Beer had one hard hit ball. He’s probably a good hitter, but I didn’t get an inkling of that skill, let’s of rollover grounders. He better be a good hitter because his other skills won’t carry him upward.
Shaver seems like his bat is OK.
In the hitter’s defense, they were going against the two Florida Gator pitchers who were recent Royal’s high picks. Kowar has good stuff but below average command in this outing. Singer has average stuff with good command.
240
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs Angels 07-15-2019
« on: July 15, 2019, 09:37:59 pm »Where is Kalas? How much time does he get off? I figured he'd be back for this series. I'm sure they mentioned he wouldn't be, but I have trouble paying attention sometimes.He’ll be back this weekend against the fucksticks.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 14, 2019
« on: July 14, 2019, 05:13:59 pm »He's not been the Devo of old for a while.I thought he’s been decent to good lately. This type of outing is surprising.
242
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers, July 14, 2019
« on: July 14, 2019, 05:10:49 pm »
Damn it. He’s lost out there.
243
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 14, 2019, 02:39:08 pm »Apparently the A's totally blindsided the Astros. They had already told Kemp he was DFA'd.I hope your source was wrong. No rational team DFAs Kemp before White, or tells someone they’re gone until the ink on the deal is dry.
244
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers - 7/12
« on: July 12, 2019, 08:58:59 pm »HomelessBeard McFuckwadOutstanding PBP
245
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rangers - 7/12
« on: July 12, 2019, 08:45:07 pm »
Any hit to center should be a green light
246
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Whitley
« on: July 12, 2019, 08:35:34 pm »
Whitley back on the mound in the GCL, but didn’t seem like a particularly strong outing.
1.2IP, 1H, 3R, 3ER, 3BB, 5K
1.2IP, 1H, 3R, 3ER, 3BB, 5K
247
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: July 11, 2019, 01:43:59 pm »Also not funny - Jake gets 2 games for the collision.Vague, motherfucking rule that has never been enforced as it is explained. The explanation is that the catcher can’t block the plate without the ball. Catcher never had the ball and was in front of the plate, Marisnick chooses an empty lane and the catcher moves into that lane and boom. Marisnick out two games, wtf.
248
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Whitley
« on: July 10, 2019, 10:01:43 am »
Not sure what they mean by “immaturity so caustic,” it’s an odd phrase. I saw his last outing and didn’t have that observation at all. After getting shelled, and even with a crucial misplay in the field, he seemed “mature” to me. He did appear to lose confidence by the end though.
249
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: July 09, 2019, 04:31:32 pm »Every accusation a confession.
That’s a great line and fits perfectly.
250
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Angels at Astros- July 7, 2019
« on: July 07, 2019, 02:11:51 pm »
I wonder what their immediate future plans are. Valdez, extend McHugh or James?
251
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Angels at Astros- July 7, 2019
« on: July 07, 2019, 01:57:33 pm »
I’m too superstitious. This interview has changed the course of this game.
252
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: July 06, 2019, 08:48:33 pm »
Framer with three innings, two runs and seven Ks, but doesn’t come out for the fourth. I hope all is well.
253
Talk Zone / Re: JV:the aftermath
« on: July 06, 2019, 06:20:15 pm »He falls in love with his fastball. And it's a good one. And I like that he challenges hitters. But maybe sometimes he's just stubborn about strike outs.I agree. Off the top of my head, I can’t recall another starter who challenges with fastballs as much as him.
254
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: July 03, 2019, 10:01:59 am »
I obviously have no insight into this, but could this (Tucker is untouchable) just be standard negotiating fare. I've never seen Boyd, or at least i don't recall him; is he a difference maker or just a solid arm?
255
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Rockies, July 2, 2019
« on: July 02, 2019, 09:53:12 pm »
I wonder about batter interference on that throw.
256
Talk Zone / Re: Urquidy called up to start
« on: July 02, 2019, 05:49:58 pm »You could be right, but MLB Trade Rumors seems to think that he had a promising enough pedigree that at least one of the 29 others teams will claim him if the Astros don’t work some sort of trade.Yeah, I’d be surprised if he went unclaimed. I’d also be surprised if he chose to stay if he wasn’t claimed. A change of orgs is probably in his best interest.
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Talk Zone / Re: Urquidy called up to start
« on: July 01, 2019, 03:08:35 pm »Corbin Martin to the 60-day IL? It's either that or a dfa and I don't think they are going to dfa White just yet. The other dfa option is AJ Reed.I doubt they worry too much about losing Reed. It would be useful for him
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Talk Zone / Re: Urquidy called up to start
« on: July 01, 2019, 10:42:07 am »
Did they need to make a move on the 40 man roster?
ETA. Never mind, I should read deeper than the title.
ETA. Never mind, I should read deeper than the title.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Sea Hags @ Astros, 6/30/2019
« on: June 30, 2019, 03:41:00 pm »You assume he has a green light. I do not.You are correct, probably on both our assumptions.
Nice to get out of that jam.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Sea Hags @ Astros, 6/30/2019
« on: June 30, 2019, 03:24:25 pm »
Surprised they even threw one to him, with White coming up.
261
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Sea Hags @ Astros, 6/30/2019
« on: June 30, 2019, 03:10:52 pm »I’m really not sure about our team strategy of “always swing first pitch when Straw is on first”Some of it Is on Straw. He should be more aggressive IMO. For a guy with his speed, he should run more and earlier in counts.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Mariners at Astros- June 30, 2019
« on: June 29, 2019, 10:18:50 pm »
That half-inning was the brightest spot of the game. Maybe it will inspire the bats.
263
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: June 28, 2019, 07:52:58 am »
I watched both debates and all I took from it is that the Democrats are probably going to lose. Lose to the crappiest opponent imaginable. Like the Reds sweeping the Astros last week.
264
Talk Zone / Re: Update on kid hit in stands 5/29 vs Cubs
« on: June 27, 2019, 10:45:44 am »Put up the damn nets.Seems like some places have already extended them far down the lines and I have yet to hear a chorus of complaints. In a few years, people will reminisce and wonder why extending them was ever an issue.
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Talk Zone / Re: Cy Sneed
« on: June 27, 2019, 10:14:01 am »Uhhhh, Devo came in and murdered the Pirates for two innings. He was extended thanks to Framber being a black hole of bullshit last night, and ran out of gas.Yeah, I tuned out last night, but I thought Devo has looked a lot better in the recent outings I saw. He was pitching good enough that I thought he would be a useful piece again.
Shitting on Devo after 2 monster innings of relief work is a little questionable.
266
Talk Zone / Re: Cy Sneed
« on: June 27, 2019, 10:11:00 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?
I'm pretty sure I saw him last year. Based on that recollection, I'm only expecting a guy that can give them innings, not someone in their long-term plans.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 27, 2019, 08:37:49 am »
I had hoped for a more dramatic game, but oh well. Two shitty games last night.
And Texifornia, thanks for the thread and your enthusiasm over this tourney. It is an event I look forward to and the updates and info were much appreciated. I just need Texas to make it again so I can motivate myself to get up there.
And Texifornia, thanks for the thread and your enthusiasm over this tourney. It is an event I look forward to and the updates and info were much appreciated. I just need Texas to make it again so I can motivate myself to get up there.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 24, 2019, 10:35:35 pm »
They have to go through Rocker though. Looking forward to it.
It’s been an enjoyable tournament all around.
It’s been an enjoyable tournament all around.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: June 24, 2019, 06:59:49 pm »Anyone know why Fisher was moved to the inactive list?This is a good unanswered question. He hasn’t been playing and I can’t find anything with my lousy search skills.
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See that Bielak had a good outing today: 7 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 9 K. He looked good in ST, but has had a rough go in RR. Nice to see him with a good outing.
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Talk Zone / Re: This losing streak
« on: June 24, 2019, 02:53:14 pm »Probably well into August some time. I have not heard of any time table for him. The only one is Correa and Diaz back after the All-Star break. In terms of Smith, no word on his return. Did you hear he is coming back soon?
Not sure what you mean, but right now Yuli is at third and will be well into after the All-Star break. It's either keep Jack Mayfield and play him a lot and get rid of White and move Yuli back to first or use Yuli at third, Bregman at short and keep White at first (which is what they decided). All this until Correa returns. I think you might be thinking in terms of the long term and Kaplan's article is more along the short terms fixes could have been Tucker and Alvarez being called up and with the rotation at DH that Hinch employs, you would have had more offensive prowess than you have right now. But that was only if Alvarez could play first. I originally thought why not move Brantley or Reddick to first, but it seems it is a similar proposition as using Straw at short and using Alvarez at first. Probably not your best first option. So hence, White stays at least until Correa and Diaz return. And of course, you'll have stints like the Astros just went through were there were woeful performance on offense, especially with RISP.
Smith is already throwing at CC, I think.
You are correct: my thoughts were for the team at full strength, where it will be Yuli at first, Alvarez at DH, Tucker at RR and White somewhere else.
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Talk Zone / Re: This losing streak
« on: June 24, 2019, 02:03:25 pm »
Regarding Rondon and the need for a reliever. They are hoping to get Smith back sometime in the near future.
Not exactly sure what Alvarez playing first buys you. So, Yuli isn't a starter, but who is the DH? Is the scenario Kaplan outlines basically trading Yuli's bat for Tucker's? If so, it's not striking me as that big of a deal, at all.
Not exactly sure what Alvarez playing first buys you. So, Yuli isn't a starter, but who is the DH? Is the scenario Kaplan outlines basically trading Yuli's bat for Tucker's? If so, it's not striking me as that big of a deal, at all.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Reds, June19, 2019
« on: June 19, 2019, 01:12:40 pm »
Nice way to get out of that jam. 6 pitches and 2 Ks.
Need some offense.
Need some offense.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: June 18, 2019, 12:09:04 pm »
Thanks for the update. Nothing on the massage victim?
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Talk Zone / Re: Tucker in June
« on: June 17, 2019, 03:43:58 pm »I have no idea what would happen if one of today's CWS teams played a three game series with any give High A or AA team. I expect the professional team would win handily most of the time, but I thought it was interesting that Luhnow thought he could gauge a player's potential in High A or AA from having watched him compete at a school in a good conference.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.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Minor league call ups
« on: June 17, 2019, 02:31:12 pm »
I doubt he's moving up real soon, or what I really should say is, I hope he is not moving up for a while as I am going to CC in the future and want to see him in AA before RR.
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Talk Zone / Re: Tucker in June
« on: June 17, 2019, 02:28:29 pm »Luhnow said the other day (and it surprised me a little) that he thinks the best college baseball conferences are pretty close to High A.Well, it's hard to dispute Luhnow, but I'd side with Mr. Happy in that it better be their stud on the mound for a college team to compete with a good High A team. Just the other day, I was checking in on Clemens and Luken Baker, both dudes that dominated the Big 12 last year. They're both still finding their legs one year later in High A.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 17, 2019, 01:54:12 pm »
While I agree with all that, I put a lot of blame on that pitcher walking a batter with a three run lead and putting the tying run at the plate. Also, why is he throwing all fastballs. It took more than one player, and a bit of misfortune for that to happen.
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Talk Zone / Re: Let the kid play!
« on: June 17, 2019, 10:52:41 am »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.Your expectation is correct. Even the mighty SEC is well below AA competition.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Trade Deadline Talk
« on: June 17, 2019, 10:19:19 am »Astros were in on Encarnacion according to this reporter. https://twitter.com/feinsand/status/1140432617856294913
I assume these talks were pre-Alvarez. At the moment, seems like the club needs are elsewhere.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 17, 2019, 08:15:58 am »Wow, that was a brutal way to lose. Auburn to the losers bracket. MSU facing Vandy.It was hard to watch. Very hard. Hope those guys rebound.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 16, 2019, 08:55:49 am »
Those games are Monday, correct? That was some good baseball by FSU last night.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Jays @ Astros 6/15
« on: June 15, 2019, 05:56:18 pm »That's only because he's got White behind him in the lineup.It may purely be survival instincts, but his presence has seemed to fire up White. He’s squaring up a lot of balls lately.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Minor league call ups
« on: June 15, 2019, 10:38:04 am »
They draw them up from the lower levels.
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Talk Zone / Re: Astros call up Armenteros
« on: June 13, 2019, 02:51:14 pm »
Never mind. I see it is "lat tightness."
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Talk Zone / Re: Astros call up Armenteros
« on: June 13, 2019, 02:49:58 pm »
Is there an update on James, or what did Hinch say about him postgame?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: June 12, 2019, 10:40:49 pm »
Probably. They were supposedly targeting one of their top guys for the GM replacement.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 12, 2019
« on: June 12, 2019, 10:34:36 pm »I thought James might be asked to pitch two. I do hope his arm isn’t hurtingI was wondering about that when he left the mound.
Nice job by Straw. He’s going to have to learn not to go to his knees all the time, but that was impressive.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 12, 2019
« on: June 12, 2019, 08:37:23 pm »Something interesting may have happened that inning, but anyway, more importantly, it's just so hard to play every day, you guys wouldn't believe.I wasn’t sure the kid would want to report after listening to Lance. “Your best days are behind you. Good luck buddy”
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 12, 2019, 04:28:16 pm »
Thanks for that info. Luhnow mentioned that they would need to go overslot on the fourth round high school bat. To get the money, I didn't know if one, two or all three of the higher picks would be underslot. Looks like they got a nice chunk of what they will need from the #1 pick.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Brewers @ Astros, June 11, 2019
« on: June 11, 2019, 09:00:38 pm »
Damn, just one turn on Lance and he runs and runs and runs. He is more insightful than I expected though.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 10, 2019, 09:16:05 am »As I wrote earlier, the LSU loss to a gentleman like Mike Martin doesn't bother me at all. I'll be pulling for the Seminoles this year in the CWS.He was pretty stoked after that victory, for obvious reasons. They are playing very well too. Pretty much dismantled Georgia and outlasted LSU.
I didn't see much of Louisville, but so far, FSU and Vandy look pretty strong. I think the piggies are pretty good also (if they win today), but they have a way of blowing it.
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: June 10, 2019, 08:35:23 am »
You nail ones like that and they add "Senior" to your title.
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: June 09, 2019, 08:13:57 pm »
They couldn’t execute it, but the O’s tried hard in the last bat. I’d expect that’s the near term strategy. Like Jim said, pitching him away is asking for oppo shots.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles at Astros June 9, 2019
« on: June 09, 2019, 03:03:24 pm »Great job by Pressly.I was resigned to a worse outcome. Miley owes him.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles at Astros June 9, 2019
« on: June 09, 2019, 02:35:01 pm »That's the thing, from everything I've gathered and from the very little I've seen, this lunatic is just a great hitter who happens to be a giant human that results in his hitting the ball a goddamn long way.One odd thing is just last year, there were public scouting reports that had him with 55 power. Baseball projections are hard.
I mean, just now, that was a pretty good pitch. He didn't crush a mistake, he hit a good pitch where the pitcher wanted to put it. And rather than try to pull it he just went with it. It seems like that's what he always does, and that's an incredible level of maturity and wisdom for someone with that kind of natural power.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 08, 2019, 09:13:57 pm »
Rocker is damn impressive. The UCLA pitcher the Rangers drafted looked pretty good, but this guy is a cut above.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 08, 2019, 08:51:52 pm »
Can’t believe Tadlock left that guy in. He was obviously melting down.
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: June 08, 2019, 08:36:55 pm »
Luhnow said that he would wait past Luhnow’s birthday/today to make the move, but I guess the last two nights of offense was too much. That, and White’s non production.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles at Astros- June 8, 2019
« on: June 08, 2019, 04:57:27 pm »
Bregman making two tough ones look easy
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles at Astros- June 8, 2019
« on: June 08, 2019, 04:49:23 pm »
Was his foot still touching first? I guess so, since no challenge.
Good job by Yuli.
Good job by Yuli.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles v. Astros 06/07/2019
« on: June 08, 2019, 11:43:01 am »I missed the Perez call-up. Glad to see him do well. Those three innings were a huge help for the pen. Was Rodgers sent down as the offsetting move?Yes
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles v. Astros 06/07/2019
« on: June 08, 2019, 11:26:45 am »I like Harold Reynolds. I really do. He seems like a good guy, genuinely loves talking baseball, and he seems like the kind of guy you want hang out with, have a few pops and watch the game. Sort of the opposite of Joe Morgan. But he's so full of shit sometimes.I haven’t watched the clip, but those thoughts mirror mine regarding Reynolds
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 08, 2019, 11:24:38 am »
Kessinger with a bomb in inning 1 against the piggies.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles v. Astros 06/07/2019
« on: June 07, 2019, 10:28:25 pm »Yuli never touched the plate, but the catcher never tagged him. I guess that means the call stands, even if it was wrong.Are you sure the ump wasn’t ruling “illegal blocking” or whatever the proper term is?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles v. Astros 06/07/2019
« on: June 07, 2019, 10:24:39 pm »
What’s the rule again these days, don’t you have to have possession to block the plate?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Orioles v. Astros 06/07/2019
« on: June 07, 2019, 10:10:04 pm »
Have they always been playing Bregman to the right side of Kemp on the shift?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Texans 2019
« on: June 07, 2019, 04:47:43 pm »
Not something I expected to read today. Any reasons given?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at FishTossers 06/05/2019
« on: June 05, 2019, 10:21:41 pm »I do not think he is bad at anything, but he moves around too much. I do not think being short affects that. Some of that may be being hyped up. As I said, I think he has been much quieter tonight.He has been much better tonight. It seems that he’s nosier with breaking balls but quieter with fastballs.
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Talk Zone / Re: Maddon Conspiracy Theorist??
« on: June 05, 2019, 12:05:17 pm »People have looked at the baseballs and can't figure out exactly what's different or the differences they do see would change the baseball so much, so there is room for alternative explanations. (Maybe all that motion sensor data, new coaching techniques, new types of PEDs, cork in the bats, all of the above).
Interesting. By my likely flawed logic, this seems like an answerable problem, mainly through investigating what you mention, and eliminating variables:
I haven't looked at the info, but I assume that if they know launch angle and the velocity (which I assume is right off the bat) and have this data for years, the question "Do the balls fly further" is easily answerable.
Then, I think the next question would be whether the energy transfer from the bat to the ball has changed, which would show up as higher exit velocities in the data. I assume that somewhere, they are measuring bat speed, and can reasonably conclude whether a change has occurred there (through coaching or technique). There's likely a variable about whether the "solidness of contact" has improved, but I would with enough data, some statistician can make conclusion on this variable with confidence. I suppose if they conclude there is something going on here, variables like corking or other bat changes might come into play and compete with improved techniques/coaching.
It seems like if they determine that balls aren't flying further, and that the transfer of energy into the ball is the same, it would simply be that the data set is now skewed to more advantageous launch angles.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Mariners, 04june19
« on: June 05, 2019, 08:15:13 am »Dam video (of dam breaking).Wow, sorry to hear about that. Saw the story on the SA station to learn more. I didn't realize that there were so many dams downstream of Canyon Lake, or that GBRA was so bad at maintaining them.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 06:44:57 pm »
Round 10 Final round for the day
Stubbs, C.J.
USC (CA)
P
R/R
4YR SR
I’m assuming the brother of Garrett, or maybe not as I think his brother was also a catcher
Stubbs, C.J.
USC (CA)
P
R/R
4YR SR
I’m assuming the brother of Garrett, or maybe not as I think his brother was also a catcher
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs SeaHags 06-03-2019
« on: June 04, 2019, 05:11:46 pm »Don't like Morales - she is annoying and detracts from the game.The idea that one would find her annoying is foreign to me
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 05:08:15 pm »
Round 9
Battenfield, Peyton
Oklahoma State (OK)
P
R/R
4YR JR
Another one whose team is still playing: against Texas Tech this weekend
Battenfield, Peyton
Oklahoma State (OK)
P
R/R
4YR JR
Another one whose team is still playing: against Texas Tech this weekend
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 04:31:01 pm »
Round 8
Guerrero, Luis
Miami Dade CC Kendall (FL)
CF
R/R
JC J2
Guerrero, Luis
Miami Dade CC Kendall (FL)
CF
R/R
JC J2
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 03:48:57 pm »
Round 7
Henley, Blair
Texas (TX)
P
R/R
4YR JR
Henley, Blair
Texas (TX)
P
R/R
4YR JR
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 03:16:00 pm »
Round 6
Barefoot, Matthew
Campbell University (NC)
CF
R/L
4YR SR
Barefoot, Matthew
Campbell University (NC)
CF
R/L
4YR SR
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 02:16:04 pm »
Round 5
Brown, Hunter
Wayne State (MI)
P
R/R
4YR JR
Brown, Hunter
Wayne State (MI)
P
R/R
4YR JR
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 01:35:31 pm »
Round 4
Barber, Colin
Pleasant Valley HS (CA)
CF
L/L
HS SR
Barber, Colin
Pleasant Valley HS (CA)
CF
L/L
HS SR
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 01:34:57 pm »
Since someone needs to do it.
Round 3
Brewer, Jordan
Michigan (MI)
CF
R/R
4YR JR
Another guy still playing, against UCLA
Round 3
Brewer, Jordan
Michigan (MI)
CF
R/R
4YR JR
Another guy still playing, against UCLA
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 11:33:20 am »
You got me biting on "who is Jimmy Lewis?' He is either an aging Hawaiian surfer and surfboard shaper, or the pitcher from Lake Travis. Didn't LT make the final 4, and will he throw the Friday game?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 10:16:21 am »Grandson of former Cubs SS Don Kessinger. And, yes, I remember Don playing. Played on an infield with Banks, Beckert and Santo. Grandpa was a bit lanky for a SS and not much of a hitter but could pick 'em at short.Thanks for the info. For those so inclined, Ole Miss is still alive (against the Piggies, IIRC), so if you want to see the guy play, you'll have a chance this weekend.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 04, 2019, 08:08:58 am »
Until this morning, I didn't even realize they were going more than one round last night.
Anyway, in Round 2, the good guys get:
Grae Kessinger, SS Ole Miss, 4 yr Jr.
Anyway, in Round 2, the good guys get:
Grae Kessinger, SS Ole Miss, 4 yr Jr.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros vs SeaHags 06-03-2019
« on: June 03, 2019, 09:47:27 pm »
It’s got to be odd for a starting pitcher to come in down three.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Draft
« on: June 03, 2019, 09:40:55 pm »
Are there questions about him remaining at catcher? I’d hope not for a first rounder.
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Talk Zone / Re: The invaluable contributions Josh "The Flame" James provides
« on: June 03, 2019, 06:49:14 pm »
IMO, it’s all about command (or repetition) with James. His improvement over this year is probably that he missed time in ST, and with work, he is about where he was last year. If he makes any more improvement in repeating his delivery, seems that he would be considered for the rotation. It would also allow him to use his fastball inside at least. Don’t see many of those on the inner half with him.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 03, 2019, 02:59:39 pm »
ISU tied it up in the top 9, but gave up a 2 out hit in the bottom 9 to lose 4-3. Entertaining.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: June 03, 2019, 02:31:27 pm »
Illinois State fighting til the last out.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: June 03, 2019, 02:28:14 pm »Those wascally Brits are having fun with Trump's visit. In addition to flying the Baby Trump blimp, they projected his approval numbers vs. Obama's onto the side of the Tower of London, and the projected a USS John McCain baseball cap onto Madame Tussauds.That might be enough for him to cut his trip short. His base and Fox News would eat it up.
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I agree but I think it's Kemp or Straw, not both once all the guys come back. For the regular season it's probably Kemp but IF they make the postseason, I think it'll be Straw.For the postseason, unless one is dealt, it will definitely be BOTH of them. Your not about to drop Kemp or Straw to carry a 13th, or probably even a 12th arm.
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A's June 2
« on: June 02, 2019, 07:01:15 pm »I wonder how often people get shat upon by seagulls there in Oakland.That had crossed my mind. Like grackles in Austin.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A's June 2
« on: June 02, 2019, 06:04:13 pm »Well he got it back, but had to throw five or six more pitches.It’s just an impression, but it seems like every pitcher has trouble at first with his noisy, moving target.
Stubbs is a fucking train wreck behind the plate.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A's June 2
« on: June 02, 2019, 05:31:48 pm »It wouldn't take too much to argue that Straw is more valuable than Kemp or whoever the last pitcher on the roster is. He's unquestionably more valuable than White.Not sure about Kemp, but sure with White, although the real question with that is “Is he more valuable than Alvarez?” Agree with the pitcher but I doubt Hinch and Luhnow do.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ A's June 2
« on: June 02, 2019, 05:22:23 pm »I know they will, but I don't see how they can send Straw back down.I tend to agree. He’s real valuable, but who would you drop? White, Kemp, pitcher?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: May 31, 2019, 07:50:46 am »Round Rock was just going through the motions tonight. Didn't get a hit until the 6th, and those two hits were both infield dribblers. Missed cuts, dropped throws, jogging out ground balls. It was hard to be encouraged that there's much more help available.
I mainly watched AA over the last decade and only seen a few AAA games during that time. From that small sample size, I agree that a lot of AAA players just appear to be going through the motions. However, I've concluded that you can't take much away from that. I saw Fisher just last week loaf out a ball hit to second, and it was difficult to watch but he's hustling in the big leagues now.
AA is a better product IMO as the games have more intensity.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 30, 2019, 10:01:38 am »
But none of those facts will prevent them from saying the exact same things the next time they want to cut taxes. I've been hearing it since Reagan.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: May 30, 2019, 09:33:34 am »
I hear Stoney Brook is back in Baton Rouge as a #4. Nice. I hope that game is televised nationally.
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Beer and Queso / Re: NCAA Div. I Baseball Tournament
« on: May 30, 2019, 09:31:38 am », but West Virginia is my sleeper pick for the CWS. They have great starting pitching and defense and are currently playing their best baseball of the year.I just saw them twice versus Texas, but they had some pop in that outfield also.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 30, 2019, 09:28:12 am »
Quote from: @realDonaldTrump
That's a dangerous starting point as this statement will crumble under scrutiny.
Quote
I had nothing to do with Russia helping me to get elected.
That's a dangerous starting point as this statement will crumble under scrutiny.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Cubs at Astros May 29th 2019 version.
« on: May 29, 2019, 09:26:09 pm »Deco with an 85 mph cement mixer down Main Street....for strike three looking.Devo living right.
Need a bloop and a bomb.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Cubs at Astros May 29th 2019 version.
« on: May 29, 2019, 08:24:11 pm »Almora is inconsolable. He may be out of the game. They just referred to the “young fan”.I wasn’t watching but I thought I heard Blum say it went “through the net.” Did it, or was it a liner past the net?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: May 29, 2019, 05:26:12 pm »Sounds spot on. Luhnow just said after he’s done rehabbing he’ll get back out to “one of our affiliates.” He was asked specifically whether Whitley would go back to AAA and he wouldn’t commit to it. Merely said he’s talented enough to pitch in AAA but that they’d want to build him back up and build his confidence back up. Translation: they realized they rushed him to AAA.I'm not sure that "they realized they rushed him to AAA." I can understand an argument that he could of, or should have spent more time in AA. In some ways, it makes sense, especially with hindsight. However, I also understand that in spring training, he was viewed as probably the top, can't miss pitcher in the minors, a probable #1 or #2. He also had a possibility, although outside, to stick with the club. It's hardly unusual to move guys like that up.
Anyways, there's always at least two sides to whether someone was rushed or not, and if he hadn't lost his mechanics, he probably would have been on the mound last night in MM. I think the question is why he lost his mechanics, was it competition or something someone like him was always likely to do.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: May 29, 2019, 02:47:00 pm »
I assume something was going to happen; it couldn't continue like this. If all his troubles are injury related, hope it's minor and heals quickly. Otherwise, I hope he regains form down there and comes back as the top prospect he was two months ago.
344
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: May 29, 2019, 11:49:22 am »Or worseMy immediate reaction, based on the apparent secrecy, was that his wife got him, but it's probably something innocuous or innocuously careless and/or embarrassing.
346
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 29, 2019, 10:15:43 am »
In what little I saw, it looked like Mueller is refusing to do any more than what he's done. To some extent I get it, but it's still disappointing.
347
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 29, 2019, 10:01:24 am »Mueller to give a statement today at 10am CDT.Are Barr's strings going to be attached to him?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Chicago - NL @ Astros May 28, 2019
« on: May 28, 2019, 10:55:27 pm »Don’t know about aggressiveness, but he has zero command.That is more accurate, but I wonder if some of that is a bit of fear. To me, he just has the look of someone wary of keeping pitches in the zone.
349
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Chicago - NL @ Astros May 28, 2019
« on: May 28, 2019, 10:25:16 pm »Time to wonder how long Martin will stay.Hinch didn’t seem pleased with his lack of aggressiveness.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Chicago - NL @ Astros May 28, 2019
« on: May 28, 2019, 10:20:01 pm »
No first pitch fastballs from Osuna tonight.
Good win.
FTC.
Good win.
FTC.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Chicago - NL @ Astros May 28, 2019
« on: May 28, 2019, 09:08:57 pm »
Damnit. Sorry.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Chicago - NL @ Astros May 28, 2019
« on: May 28, 2019, 09:06:43 pm »He's still overthrowing sometimes when he gets in those two-strike counts, but he's getting back to where he was last year.Other than the slam outing, his work the last two weeks has been pretty critical.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Cubs @ Astros, May 27, 2019
« on: May 27, 2019, 04:26:55 pm »So when do we start worrying about Osuna?I giving him a lot of credit for hanging in there these last two. One of the requisite traits for a closer.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Cubs @ Astros, May 27, 2019
« on: May 27, 2019, 03:49:30 pm »Good deal. He’s been in a mini slump so it is nice to see that others getting called up rather then he hasn’t distracted him.I hadn’t noticed, but he has 61 RBI, in 50 games
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Talk Zone / Re: Trivia Question: the last Astros rookie battery to start a game
« on: May 27, 2019, 10:35:24 am »
I remember Clemens, but Clark, not at all.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Bosox @ Astros, May 26, 2019
« on: May 26, 2019, 01:29:47 pm »Son of a bitch: is Diaz limping?Seemed like it.
357
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Red Sox @ Astros, May 25, 2019
« on: May 25, 2019, 06:37:34 pm »
I haven’t followed him recently. Wasn’t he out of action for something? What was it?
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: May 25, 2019, 04:43:08 pm »
It’s not about talent. The guy from last year dominates AAA, just as he did AA.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: BoSox at Houston 05/24/2019
« on: May 24, 2019, 10:00:11 pm »
Osuna’s mix of pitches is so fun to watch. I can’t recall any reliever of note who pitches like him.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: May 24, 2019, 08:30:29 pm »Was the delivery more repeatable at lower levels, or was he just able to get away with it because of the relative inexperience of those hitters?I only saw him once at AA. He was sharp for about 75%, but would have stretches of about 5 pitches in a row where he’d lose it. About 3 or 4 times during the game, but infrequent enough that it didn’t affect his aggressiveness or his confidence. Those 5 pitch stretches were all he had yesterday.
He may have been rushed, and who knows, a demotion or change of scenery might help him, but he’d have been crushed at AA last night also. Some of the same guys he dominated in SA AA where I saw him were the same guys he faced last night. His pitches, when right, will play at any level, IMO.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 24, 2019, 10:11:44 am »
Theresa May is out. Limey, I understand very little about Brexit. What is your prediction on the final outcome, or will it just be strung along endlessly?
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Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: May 24, 2019, 09:15:28 am »I keep hoping that he's "working on things" at the direction of the pitching staff and is being told to not worry about the on-the-field results. I think I'm whistling past the graveyard though as I've not seen that at the AAA level before...My suspicion is that this explanation doesn't fly, at all. Not sure it is a graveyard though.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: May 24, 2019, 08:18:05 am »
Saw Whitley last night. Ugly line: 2IP, 7 Runs, 2 homers. A play not-made in the outfield could have trimmed 3 runs of the line, but it would have been just as ugly a performance.
He seems like he is in an extreme mechanical rut. I watched him warm up in the pen and he looked very uncomfortable and was inconsistent: looked frustrated about his plant foot and/or the mound. The warmup was a preview of the game. He was inconsistent, behind in the counts, looking like just throwing a strike was more important than attacking the hitter. Anyways, as you would guess, if you can't execute what you intend, you lose focus and confidence. The vicious cycle where the rut is becoming a hole. He and the coaches have their work cut out for them.
Good news is that the inherent ability is still there, at least IMO. I have not read any reports from the org or scouts, giving an knowledgeable opinion on his struggles.
My data set of watching pitchers is limited, but I always wonder if the tall, somewhat gangly guys often take a longer time learning to repeat their delivery. That's my hope at least.
He seems like he is in an extreme mechanical rut. I watched him warm up in the pen and he looked very uncomfortable and was inconsistent: looked frustrated about his plant foot and/or the mound. The warmup was a preview of the game. He was inconsistent, behind in the counts, looking like just throwing a strike was more important than attacking the hitter. Anyways, as you would guess, if you can't execute what you intend, you lose focus and confidence. The vicious cycle where the rut is becoming a hole. He and the coaches have their work cut out for them.
Good news is that the inherent ability is still there, at least IMO. I have not read any reports from the org or scouts, giving an knowledgeable opinion on his struggles.
My data set of watching pitchers is limited, but I always wonder if the tall, somewhat gangly guys often take a longer time learning to repeat their delivery. That's my hope at least.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Big XII Tournament
« on: May 22, 2019, 03:43:42 pm »I understand I don’t follow college baseball closely, but I can’t fathom how UT went from top-4 to not even qualifying for the CONFERENCE tournament.Twas brutal. A little bit of this, a little bit of that, always a new way to lose.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Beer and Queso / Re: Montgomery, Al.
« on: May 22, 2019, 02:26:43 pm »
Never been, but I commend anyone going there for no particular reason.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Big XII Tournament
« on: May 22, 2019, 02:25:30 pm »
What is this tournament you speak of?
367
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 22, 2019, 12:33:21 pm »What are they going to do? Strenuously object? Congress abdicated oversight of the President in 1991, and they're not getting it back, especially with a President who will tell them to go fuck themselves, and his party will fall in line behind him. They are all spineless, and Trump knows this. He's like a drug dealer who sells oregano instead of weed to junior high school kids...what are they going to do, complain to their parents?Strenuously object is all they have been doing. They have had numerous chances to be tougher. They could have gone all in prior to Mueller, but they said "no, we are waiting for Mueller."
After the report was released, they could have jumped to conclusions like Trump and announced it to the world, basically setting their narrative rather than allowing Trump to. Those conclusions would have at least contained "The report shows he's guilty of obstruction" or "If he hadn't obstructed, Mueller would surely have found underlying crimes." These claims would have been no less justified than Trumps "No collusion, no obstruction, complete exoneration," but Trump sure wasn't scared to proceed that way.
After all of the D bank, tax record, financial record stuff, just come out and assert: "there's lot's of smoke that he is guilty of money laundering and that he is financially beholden to Russia and other countries. We're going to assume he is until he proves otherwise. He needs to come clean."
I get that these are all marginal tactics played by those with an inherently weak hand, but the "let's wait, object, then strenuously object, or threaten this that and the other" play is lame. Basically, the Dems play by different rules, and it always hurts them. The public doesn't give you any credit for playing fair and it's stupid for the Dems to continually act as if the public does.
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Talk Zone / Re: Morning Lineup MLB Podcast
« on: May 22, 2019, 12:10:45 pm »Thanks for the link. Also very interesting to hear Luhnow thinks they’ll go to an automated strike zone “soon.”I haven't followed the intricacies of this issue, but I have a lot of nerd in me. For those that have followed it, do you know:
1. What is the selection criteria for being a strike? Part of the ball touching the line, half of the ball, all of the ball or something else?
2. I assume it must be tailored to the batter, how do they plan on dealing with this?
It would be interesting if the varied the selection criteria, and let both teams know before the game started, just to add some spice. You know, "Today, the zone will be as wide as possible (any part of the ball), or as tight as possible (all of the ball)"
369
Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: May 22, 2019, 09:19:03 am »It is also pretty easy to track the rotation on MILB.com -and they usually post probables early in the day.Not always easy to have certainty, especially with the tandems.. When I went last week, I followed the prior weeks tandem scheduling. Based on that progression, it would have been Whitley's tandem turn, but they used Urquidez in his debut, and pushed the Whitley tandem back a day.
And tonight, Milb has Sneed listed as a starter. Well, he has been used in Tandem with Whitley, but Sneed started last tandem and only went 1.2, so if he is starting tonight, is he still in a tandem with Whitley (they usually alternate starting)? I am going to assume that Whitley and Sneed are no longer in tandem and that Jim is correct that Whitley is going Thursday.
Anyways, you get the point. If they would just keep their gamenotes up to date (they are presently three days behind), it would be easier.
370
Talk Zone / Re: Jose Urquidy
« on: May 22, 2019, 08:07:21 am »
Glad to hear that Urquidy looked like someone to watch for on the mound, the organization can never have too many. When I saw him, the slider was just average, but his fastball was good. Also good to hear that Tucker can go anywhere but his pull side. He has to develop that to make it, IMO.
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: May 21, 2019, 06:43:55 pm »Rodgers was going to pitch tonight in RR. Express pitching has been bad lately.I’m curious, where do you get this info? I used to get this from the game notes in the media section at their website, but they are a few days behind. I’m trying to find out when Whitley is slated to throw.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 21, 2019, 09:51:19 am »
I can't figure out what the Democrats' plan actually is. Do they care about oversight, I mean, really care about it, or do they just mouth the words hoping to avoid real oversight under the belief that things will just fall their way like in 2018. Seems like the leaders, and all major candidates but Warren, favor the second approach: "oversight without heart."
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Talk Zone / Re: Ex-Astros News 2019
« on: May 20, 2019, 01:08:20 pm »Jordan Lyles is 4-1 with a 1.97 ERA for the Pirates.Hope he keeps it up. Always liked that guy. I predicted he would be good and I've been wrong for a long long time.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Red Sox, May 17th*, 2019
« on: May 18, 2019, 07:11:08 pm »How was that not an error?It is confusing. Seems like a no-brainer error to me.
375
Talk Zone / Re: Tucker
« on: May 17, 2019, 06:59:37 pm »
Right now, I doubt Luhnow could use Tucker as much of a chip. The perceptions of him may be solidifying.
377
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: May 17, 2019, 09:00:18 am »
Went to the game last night, hoping to see Whitley, but he wasn't scheduled. Anyway, Alvarez with two more homers, both to left. The first was more of a line drive on a better than excuse me swing, but not an aggressive cut. The other was a towering fly ball that made it over after fighting off a slew of 3-2 pitches. I left before his final AB, where he had another double to left. I think I've seen four homers of his in person and have yet to see one on his pull side of center field. I was impressed on one catch he had. Off the bat, I figured it would land between him and Fisher, then midway, I assume Fisher would track it, but instead it was Alvarez who got there. Not a wow play by any means, but solid.
Only saw one ball hit to Straw at SS. He ranged to his right and got a force at third.
Urquidy. Good fastball (94-98) that probably is decent in the spin rate they talk about. Seems to generally stay off bats. I assume he was working on his change as he threw it a lot. Not a good pitch at all. No deception or movement. Meat. He could command his slider but it was just average.
Reed hit a homer after I left, but prior to that, he looked like someone who didn't really want to be playing baseball. That was my impression at least.
Was surprised how small Stubbs was, but he put a charge into one line drive deep into the left field alley. Hardest hit ball of the night, IMO.
Either they had absolutely no respect for the Sounds catcher or they are making a concerted effort to steal bases. The first three guys I recall that made it to first left on the first pitch. All successful.
Only saw one ball hit to Straw at SS. He ranged to his right and got a force at third.
Urquidy. Good fastball (94-98) that probably is decent in the spin rate they talk about. Seems to generally stay off bats. I assume he was working on his change as he threw it a lot. Not a good pitch at all. No deception or movement. Meat. He could command his slider but it was just average.
Reed hit a homer after I left, but prior to that, he looked like someone who didn't really want to be playing baseball. That was my impression at least.
Was surprised how small Stubbs was, but he put a charge into one line drive deep into the left field alley. Hardest hit ball of the night, IMO.
Either they had absolutely no respect for the Sounds catcher or they are making a concerted effort to steal bases. The first three guys I recall that made it to first left on the first pitch. All successful.
378
Talk Zone / Re: Express 5/14
« on: May 15, 2019, 08:34:45 am »
Yeah, it would be a huge bonus if Alvarez' skills translate to the MLB. In my limited views, he appears to be more professional in his approach: works counts, uses all fields whereas Tucker seems more to be a hack at everything hitter with a very pull oriented swing.
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Talk Zone / Re: Express 5/14
« on: May 14, 2019, 12:14:49 pm »
Any observations on Straw's serviceability at SS would be welcome by me.
381
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 14, 2019, 11:02:49 am »
Not surprisingly, the two Saudi ships supposedly sabotaged by the Iranians appear to be just fine.
No proof, but given their lack of regard for truth coupled with their ineptitude, I wonder if they botched one of their false pretexts for war.
No proof, but given their lack of regard for truth coupled with their ineptitude, I wonder if they botched one of their false pretexts for war.
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Talk Zone / Re: Corbin Martin
« on: May 14, 2019, 09:48:13 am »This has been a trend for some years now. Some guys have very little motion in their windup. Not a lot of guys left with the old step back, hands above the head type of thing. McHugh is that way and so is Lance McCullers. Verlander is an in between guy.My observation is that it is more of a trend with the Astros, though it might still be a pitcher-specific approach. I wonder if their analytics folks have determined that the traditional windup is either wasted motion, or just a complicating factor for repetition. The simplified windup was also employed by Whitley.
383
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fayetteville 2019
« on: May 13, 2019, 10:05:33 pm »
It appears he’s leading the league in slugging and OPS. I’m assuming he’s not long for the Carolina League.
384
Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: May 13, 2019, 09:46:17 am »Damn, I hate the idea of moving Kemp. Come playoff time his ability to come off the bench and give the team a quality AB will be hard to replace. I'm hoping White turns it around quickly so he builds at least some trade value, but if he doesn't do it quick he will probably be the odd man out (may just be released if there is no market for him). I'm thinking White gets 2-3 weeks to turn it around, but then to JimR's point, Alvarez will have to be brought up so you can get an idea of how he will perform at the big league level ahead of the trade deadline.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.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Royals at Astros- May 8, 2019
« on: May 09, 2019, 07:43:10 am »James fastball looks a bit more lively tonignt than it has beenHe did look like he might be regaining some form. Throwing the 3-2 slider for a strike on that long AB was pretty impressive, given his control so far this season.
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 08, 2019, 12:04:33 pm »
This a quote from Fox and Friends discussing the NYT article (via Politico). Can't make this stuff up:
Quote
“If anything, you read this and you're like: ‘Wow, it's pretty impressive all the things that he's done in his life,’” “Fox & Friends” host Ainsley Earhardt said Wednesday. “It's beyond what most of us could ever achieve.”
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 08, 2019, 10:07:18 am »It would be comical - if it wasn't so serious - that AG Barr is threatening*, on behalf of the White House, that they will invoke executive privilege over information given to the SCO by other people.Their arrogance in this matter continues to grow. The letter from the Assistant AG was basically "We tried to negotiate in good faith, but since you are voting for contempt charges, we have to demonstrate our bad faith by now claiming privilege over the entire report."
* Twitter says this has now happened. But the DOJ isn't coordinating with the White House over this or anything, right?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 08, 2019, 08:27:02 am »I have no doubt the reason he doesn't want them released is because it would show he has no real assets.That, and all the income will look dirty. It's so clear: man inherits fortune, is an epically shitty businessman, goes broke, no legit banks will lend him money, yet stays afloat. It just seems logical that we will one day learn for certain that his "wealth" is basically through the criminal enterprise of laundering.
Also, I'd assume his bullshit stock market schemes in the 80s, outlined in the NYT article, would be illegal, but I guess not. Either that, or there are just different rules for him.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 07, 2019, 11:03:59 am »The problem is that "sword" is simply a wet noodle. There is little Congress can do and even less they're willing to do. They sold their Constitutional equality a long time ago. They're not getting it back. They are the President's bitch.
It's becoming quite evident. I'm waiting for one of the House Dems to strenuously object.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Royals at Astros May 6, 2019
« on: May 07, 2019, 07:54:28 am »
I wonder if all the turmoil in Venezuela might be on his mind. It's just hard to explain.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Rockets 2019 Playoffs
« on: May 06, 2019, 11:01:55 pm »
These possessions are awful.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: May 06, 2019, 12:11:49 pm »
The constitutional amendment will never pass, IMO, as the numbers will never work. However, I believe the other route might work, eventually. Last I heard, they were near 200.
The whole democratic representation and power scenario in this country is depressing. The system is rigged in realistic terms, or just structured to over represent rural areas in politically correct terms. I am also growing increasingly weary about the future: the complacency of decent people and the decent press is allowing the pressure to rise. At some point in the future, there will be a release and it likely won't be pleasant.
The whole democratic representation and power scenario in this country is depressing. The system is rigged in realistic terms, or just structured to over represent rural areas in politically correct terms. I am also growing increasingly weary about the future: the complacency of decent people and the decent press is allowing the pressure to rise. At some point in the future, there will be a release and it likely won't be pleasant.
393
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros @ Angels, Cinco de Mayo, 2019
« on: May 05, 2019, 04:39:19 pm »
Nice pitching change.
394
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: May 04, 2019, 10:52:10 pm »
I think they can carry 26 for these games
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: May 01, 2019, 07:53:35 am »
Thanks for the updates, even though they are basically shitty updates.
396
Talk Zone / Re: Alvarez
« on: April 29, 2019, 09:29:14 am »
Has anyone heard any reports offering an explanation of Whitley's struggles? It doesn't surprise me that he's hit a bump in the road, but I'd love to hear firsthand reports.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Indians @ Astros - April 28, 2019
« on: April 28, 2019, 08:14:50 pm »
Damn, that was nice
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Indians @ Astros - April 28, 2019
« on: April 28, 2019, 06:46:35 pm »4-3 dp ends the inning . . . Or does it.ESPN sucks, and every batted ball sounds like a shot.
TV viewers wouldn't know because ESPN went straight to commercial.
Sparks/Ford say runner at 1st was safe.
Miley cleans it up.
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Talk Zone / Re: Armenteros
« on: April 27, 2019, 02:11:19 pm »
I tried to find the broadcast on the AM but couldn’t. What’s the frequency?
400
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: April 25, 2019, 10:59:58 am »
Thanks. It's more of a tempo thing than a balance thing. It doesn't scream "That will be hard to repeat."
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: April 25, 2019, 10:21:47 am »
How so, Spastic, Luis Tiant, Fernando?
402
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 24, 2019, 10:51:53 am »It's broken down into chapters. I'm going to listen to the Executive Summaries of both volumes, and see if I want to plow on from there. So far, the summary for Vol 1 is quite engaging. It highlights how we are all the boiling frog, because so much of this has been made public by reporters over the last two years, so it doesn't come across as revlationary (is that a word?), even though everything so far would be a nucular bomb if we were learning it here for the first time.
This highlights another one of Barr's acts of obstruction: there was no reason not to release Mueller's summaries, other than to obstruct. If the public had a chance to read summaries, more would have done so and learned that "yes, indeed there was collusion, lots of it." This would have totally changed the conversation prior to the release of the redacted report. The conversation may yet get there, but it will take a lot of time and effort.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Twins at Astros, April 23, 2019
« on: April 23, 2019, 10:16:08 pm »
Great win. Miley pulling it together and the relentless offense.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Twins at Astros, April 23, 2019
« on: April 23, 2019, 10:07:20 pm »"FUCKING COCKSUCKER"It’s Angel. Everyone sees him like that.
that's what I saw, anyway.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2019
« on: April 23, 2019, 09:54:53 pm »
Any reports on Ivey? I’m curious, 3rd rounder who seems like he might be drawing some attention.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Twins at Astros, April 23, 2019
« on: April 23, 2019, 09:35:47 pm »
Angel is so fucking inept.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Twins at Astros, April 23, 2019
« on: April 23, 2019, 09:31:55 pm »
Brantley says screw it, throw me outside, see what I’ll do
408
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 23, 2019, 02:12:04 pm »
I'm not arguing which party I prefer, and your example had nothing to do with the statement you quoted. It's pretty simple, if Dems don't want to impeach and remove Trump (right thing to do) because it is bad for their party, they are making the exact same calculation that a Republican who hates Trump, but refuses to investigate or criticize Trump (right thing to do), because it is bad for their party.
Besides, your example merely asserts what you (and I by the way) value. Some right leaning Republican can make the same argument: we lost the House in 2018 because we wanted to repeal the ACA because it costs too much or is socialism or whatever. We fell on our sword to save America. Every side can frame an argument like that.
Besides, your example merely asserts what you (and I by the way) value. Some right leaning Republican can make the same argument: we lost the House in 2018 because we wanted to repeal the ACA because it costs too much or is socialism or whatever. We fell on our sword to save America. Every side can frame an argument like that.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 23, 2019, 12:51:05 pm »
Hegar made if official today: she will run against Cornyn. I assume the Castro brother will as well, but I expect her to win the primary.
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/23/us/politics/mj-hegar-cornyn-senate.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/23/us/politics/mj-hegar-cornyn-senate.html
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 23, 2019, 10:26:29 am »
That's BS; it's easily in the same universe. It might be Mercury to Pluto, but it's even the same solar system. All those Democratic criticisms of Republicans (many of whom know what a piece of shit Trump is) for putting party over country ring hollow. And I'm not persuadable by the cynical "truth" that all parties are the same. If they choose to be, they are; if they choose not to be, they aren't.
The Democratic punting is also going to lend some credence to a claim Trump will likely make: "You don't think what I did was that bad. If you did, you'd impeach me. You just want to keep investigating me, biting at my ankles, in an effort to seize power. You're politicians, just like me."
The Democratic punting is also going to lend some credence to a claim Trump will likely make: "You don't think what I did was that bad. If you did, you'd impeach me. You just want to keep investigating me, biting at my ankles, in an effort to seize power. You're politicians, just like me."
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 23, 2019, 09:35:45 am »Wait, when hasn't a political party sought to accumulate political power as the vehicle for promoting(/pushing/enforcing) their values? Not in my lifetime, I don't think.I get that. But a theme of the last two years is that Republicans are craven because they care more about the saving their asses than they do about checking the abuses of Trump. If Pelosi's calculus is that impeachment proceedings hurt her party, and are therefore not worth the price of checking Trump's abuses, then the Democrats are basically doing the same thing as Republicans. Sure, it's not as repugnant, but still similar.
ETA: And the values that this calculation promotes are antithetical to the values professed by their criticisms of Republicans. That's the important part.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 22, 2019, 05:21:55 pm »
As expected, Pelosi punts. Probably some bullshit about gathering evidence or proof. Fucking cowards.
The problem, is at their core, they are just like Republicans in that they believe both that the majority of Americans are lazy and depraved and that the purpose of a political party is not to promote values but to instead accumulate power.
The problem, is at their core, they are just like Republicans in that they believe both that the majority of Americans are lazy and depraved and that the purpose of a political party is not to promote values but to instead accumulate power.
413
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: April 22, 2019, 08:05:21 am »
Even though there may be discounting factors, Alvarez is now at 9 homers, hitting 315 with a 1309 OPS. A pretty solid start.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 19, 2019, 10:18:14 am »
The House should impeach the motherfucker, simply to convey for history that these actions aren’t acceptable in our democracy. They won’t though, they’re too worried about the tribal idiots, and the honest but exhausted decent citizens. The second group should buck up.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 18, 2019, 03:42:28 pm »Trump does have the mob boss mentality, so it does seem that he deliberately kept Junior and Jared at arms length so that he could plausibly say he didn't know. He's an idiot in so. many. ways, but one doesn't get to where he is in life without knowing how not to get arrested.In some sense I agree, but I think they said that there are 14 offshoot investigations from Mueller, only 2 of which we know about (Cohen and Craig). So, it's not implausible that should he not be president soon, 1 of those 12 investigations might lead to his arrest. Hell, I suppose the Cohen campaign finance case could lead to his arrest.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 18, 2019, 10:37:41 am »
Their entire claim to "innocence" rests on not exceeding this bar as laid out in Mueller's report:
A pretty high bar, and it's clearly implied that the two parties taking actions that were informed by or responsive to the other's actions or interests. The bolded part is a common understanding of collusion.
Quote
We understood coordination to require an agreement-tacit or express-between the Trump Campaign and Russian government on election interference. That requires more than the two parties taking actions that were informed by or responsive to the other's actions or interests. We applied the term coordination in that sense when stating in the report that the investigation did not establish that the Trump Campaign coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities.
A pretty high bar, and it's clearly implied that the two parties taking actions that were informed by or responsive to the other's actions or interests. The bolded part is a common understanding of collusion.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 18, 2019, 09:28:55 am »
I refused to watch this propaganda piece, but from reporting, it seems that the theory is similar to what I suspected: Roger Stone/Trump Campaign can't be charged with conspiracy because they and Wikileaks were not part of the GRU hacking. I suppose this interpretation might deter a prosecutor for a criminal case, but the facts scream out what we knew all along: Trump's campaign colluded with the Russians. They knew the Russians were behind the hack and coordinated with the Russians through Wikileaks in using the illegal goods to their advantage.
Whether someone is happy or unhappy with the terms collusion, coordination, conspiracy or whatever, everyone knows that Trump was in bed with the Russians in an effort to affect/steal the election. There's no need to be distracted by the legal niceties.
Whether someone is happy or unhappy with the terms collusion, coordination, conspiracy or whatever, everyone knows that Trump was in bed with the Russians in an effort to affect/steal the election. There's no need to be distracted by the legal niceties.
418
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Quad Cities 2019
« on: April 18, 2019, 08:42:37 am »
Sort of a shame people couldn't get to the field. Fans could fish and watch a ball game at the same time.
419
Game Zone 2019 / Re: Astros at A's 17 April 2019
« on: April 17, 2019, 09:48:31 pm »
Montas’ fastball is pretty impressive. Don’t often see Astros swinging through that many.
420
Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 17, 2019, 04:29:11 pm »
So, the piece of crap Barr (and Rosenstein) plans to hold a press conference tomorrow morning, presumably before the redacted "report" is issued or certainly before people could digest it. This guy has no pretension about being America's lawyer; it's transparent that he only cares about Trump. All his actions amount to getting up close to America and laughing in her face.
The press, being stupid and compliant, will attend this nonsensical press conference, digest his narrative-setting spin and run with it. So instead of letting the public/press read the redacted "report" and proceed accordingly, the press will spend all day reacting to some bullshit spin laid out by Barr.
The press, being stupid and compliant, will attend this nonsensical press conference, digest his narrative-setting spin and run with it. So instead of letting the public/press read the redacted "report" and proceed accordingly, the press will spend all day reacting to some bullshit spin laid out by Barr.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: April 16, 2019, 09:32:11 pm »
Alvarez with #7
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 16, 2019, 09:35:46 am »
I guess, but I view it the same way I would a debate run by Fox News: who's covering it and asking the questions is completely independent of who can get a ticket to attend. In other words, I am not as sold that the Fox News crowd loves Bernie and his ideas.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 16, 2019, 09:12:15 am »Meanwhile, Bernie went on Fox News last night and ended up getting applauded off stage by the in-studio audience, following a relatively rousing - for a theoretically partisan crowd - call-and-response series of questions during his summation. Just another reminder that the Republican strategy of labeling everything since (at least) the advent of Medicare as "socialism" has become background noise. It didn't work against Obama, it didn't work in 2018 and here is a self-proclaimed democratic socialist getting a Fox News crowd to agree vociferously with his platform pillars.
I've just seen snippets, but was this really a "Fox News crowd" or was it just a Bernie crowd in a town hall covered by Fox?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 15, 2019, 04:05:44 pm »
Never mind, I see that this is relatively common, even though there appears to be a big mismatch between the name of the award and the achievements by many who receive it.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 15, 2019, 03:59:08 pm »
Now he is going to award Tiger the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his Masters victory. The guy is fucking insane. I like Tiger, and it was great seeing that yesterday, but come on. I bet he heard that Obama congratulated or talked with Tiger, so Trump, being a blustery asshole who has to one-up Obama, decided he had to do something, and of course it follows that he would award the Medal of Freedom for winning a golf tournament.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 15, 2019, 01:21:46 pm »
That tweet was after offering this sage advice:
Quote
but if I were Boeing, I would FIX the Boeing 737 MAX, add some additional great features, & REBRAND the plane with a new name.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 15, 2019, 09:02:52 am »
"Because we cannot clearly establish that members of the Trump Campaign knew that Wikileaks was an arm of the Russian government,"
or
"Though they clearly were receptive to Russian assistance to their ccampaign and did not report Russian interference to the FBI,"
or
"Though they clearly were receptive to Russian assistance to their ccampaign and did not report Russian interference to the FBI,"
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 15, 2019, 08:30:31 am »
Will Barr release a two page summary?
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Talk Zone / Re: Red Sox home opener
« on: April 12, 2019, 10:29:26 am »
Yeah, I'd assume that he blows every third opportunity.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 12, 2019, 10:28:19 am »
I did want to add that I hope the irony is not lost of Mr. Assange: his work in helping to elect Trump eventually might lead to his own extradition. Obama was hesitant to pursue his extradition over the Manning deal, and Clinton might have been the same. However, Trump's group wants to go after leaks and has chosen to pursue Assange on the charge that he helped Manning steal the secrets and not on the charge that he disseminated the secrets.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 12, 2019, 10:03:14 am »
As everyone heard, or at least surmised, when asked "Do you still love Wikileaks," the pathological liar now says he knows nothing about Wikileaks, it's not his thing. No big deal; it's to be expected. Now the press is asking Republicans about Trump's love of Wikileaks and they defer, saying "you need to ask him."
Instead, the press should be pressuring Republicans about why Assange's extradition is being sought for his role with Manning, but apparently not in his role as a Russian cutout in the 2016 election. We know Trump doesn't want him charged with that, but the Republicans should also have to be on record about this.
Instead, the press should be pressuring Republicans about why Assange's extradition is being sought for his role with Manning, but apparently not in his role as a Russian cutout in the 2016 election. We know Trump doesn't want him charged with that, but the Republicans should also have to be on record about this.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Yankees at Astros, April 10, 2019
« on: April 11, 2019, 02:18:32 pm »
My gut tells me that Kemp is not going anywhere. I also don't see them going to 13 until some starters start to struggle or games pile up.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Yankees at Astros, April 10, 2019
« on: April 11, 2019, 09:50:33 am »McHugh this season: 17IP, 10H/5ER, 22K:5BB. Apparently the new slider.I had flashbacks to Sergio Romo in one of Judge's ABs. Slider, slider, slider slider, in, out, freeze him over the middle
https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/collin-mchugh-piles-up-strikeouts-vs-yankees
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 11, 2019, 07:38:41 am »
I just saw the little clip of him being evicted from his safe room. I guess he's going for the "I'm so far gone, give me sympathy" defense.
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Talk Zone / Re: Tom Hamilton
« on: April 10, 2019, 03:24:15 pm »
Yeah, gotta assume it's sour grapes. Players sure don't mind coming to this "corrupt" organization, nor do other organizations shy away from raiding the "corrupt" front office. If everything was build on a shady foundation, I doubt we see those things.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 10, 2019, 12:59:19 pm »
They're not going to do that. The democrats have shown themselves to be cowards. Most recent evidence: I haven't seen a clip of any of them tell Bob Barr that he is a motherfucking partisan hack (or in more polite public terms) who every step of the way has chosen a path most likely to obstruct the people of America (or the Representatives) from seeing the truth. He is such a transparent partisan, and the Dems treat him like he some public servant deserving respect.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Yankees @ Astros, April 9, 2019
« on: April 09, 2019, 10:06:45 pm »
Much better than Sunday’s AB in a similar situation.
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Talk Zone / Re: Cuban players/Trump/stupidity
« on: April 09, 2019, 10:11:06 am »
Don't get Rubio's argument either. So, in order to save those players from paying taxes on the millions they will make, he'll just deny them the millions. I bet those guys feel a debt of gratitude to ole Marco.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 09, 2019, 09:20:06 am »
First question should be: Why haven't you gone to the judge in order to release the grand jury testimony to Congress? Next one: Where did you get the ridiculous category of harming third parties from?
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Yankees vs Astros April 8th 2019
« on: April 09, 2019, 08:52:09 am »My "semi" concern from last nights game is Verlander. I really didn't think he'd make six innings the way the game was going. He battled and made it but it wasn't what I was expecting after the Rangers game.
I get the concern, but he wasn't really getting hit hard IMO, he was just off mechanically and therefore inefficient with a lot of non-competitive pitches. I'm assuming he'll find his groove.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Yankees vs Astros April 8th 2019
« on: April 08, 2019, 09:11:00 pm »
Sweet. Over 500!
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: Yankees vs Astros April 8th 2019
« on: April 08, 2019, 09:02:27 pm »
Don’t recall too many “0” s on a jersey.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 08, 2019, 03:41:06 pm »
He also canned the head of the Secret Service. Don't know if it was for not catching her, or catching her.
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Talk Zone / Re: Cuban players/Trump/stupidity
« on: April 08, 2019, 03:38:36 pm »Only illegal until it changes. Any administration can resume normal relations with Cuba whenever it chooses. Travel once was illegal also, but now it is not.So, if an administration negotiated or signed off on this MLB deal, it would make it legit?
I assume so, since no one questioned the legality (that I know of) until today.
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Talk Zone / Cuban players/Trump/stupidity
« on: April 08, 2019, 02:39:37 pm »
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/trump-administration-cancels-mlb-deal-with-cuba/2019/04/08/99c7d9be-5a2f-11e9-842d-7d3ed7eb3957_story.html?utm_term=.6d57f4071d45
Seems senseless, but I'm no expert on this stuff.
Really?. It's hard for me to think of Cuban ball players as equal to those being trafficked.
Seems senseless, but I'm no expert on this stuff.
Quote
A senior Trump administration official said that the payments amounted to “human trafficking” by the Cuban government.
Really?. It's hard for me to think of Cuban ball players as equal to those being trafficked.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: April 08, 2019, 01:33:48 pm »
Yes. Thank you. Looked him up on BB Ref and see he had 31 games played at SS from 2016-18.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: April 08, 2019, 01:02:55 pm »
A few years ago, they tried someone at short who made no sense (not an opinion on Straw at SS). A Reed-type body, IIRC (well, maybe not that bad). Who was it?
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Round Rock 2019
« on: April 07, 2019, 04:58:43 pm »
And Alvarez again today. Nice to see that power develop.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's @ Astros...April 7, 2019
« on: April 07, 2019, 04:52:16 pm »
They can’t bitch about those calls. Bad pitches.
Bad pitching, but the they fought like a good team today. Very nice series.
Bad pitching, but the they fought like a good team today. Very nice series.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's @ Astros...April 7, 2019
« on: April 07, 2019, 04:39:46 pm »
Damn. That was unfortunate.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's @ Astros...April 7, 2019
« on: April 07, 2019, 04:29:11 pm »
Butch Alsandor? Is he new or have I not watched enough post games.
Sweet defense Carlos.
Sweet defense Carlos.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's @ Astros...April 7, 2019
« on: April 07, 2019, 04:25:07 pm »
Hopefully, this will inspire Correa.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's @ Astros...April 7, 2019
« on: April 07, 2019, 03:05:45 pm »
I give Morales credit for staring at his bat instead of the pitcher after the K.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's @ Astros...April 7, 2019
« on: April 07, 2019, 02:57:20 pm »
Tired of seeing dudes stranded. Need to bring a lead off double home with heart of the order.
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Beer and Queso / Re: OWA 2019 Bracket Challenge
« on: April 07, 2019, 09:42:15 am »
I’m no Tech fan, but that is pretty damn cool. Hope they can finish it off.
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Game Zone 2019 / Re: A's @ Astros...HOME OPENER 2019
« on: April 05, 2019, 09:49:02 pm »
Nice to be unscathed going through the heart of their order. A clutch hit would be welcome.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 04, 2019, 04:28:11 pm »
Apparently, DOJ said today that every page of the Mueller report has information which must be redacted. It's a cover up, or the DOJ version of obstruction of justice.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 04, 2019, 10:11:09 am »Apparently, the law has been used a number of times to obtain tax returns - including for the likes of Nixon, Ford and Rockefeller - and, notably, the IRS has never ever ever denied a demand under the law. Trump has said he won't allow his returns to be released, but the law doesn't require his approval, it requires only the written demand from the W&M Chairman (or the Senate Finance Chairman), which the IRS now has.
I don't know what the time frame is for their performance under the law. If they deny the request, I can see some IRS executives getting hauled in front of Congress, slapped with subpoenas and maybe even fines if they try and hold out. They have the returns, there's no process under which they are vetted or redacted, they just need to be copied and submitted.
I not familiar with the exact statutes authorizing the ability to require the release of a President's taxes, but I was somewhat concerned about the reason I heard. Some guy on the committee stated that they needed them to see if the IRS was treating Trump properly, and to see if they are/were under audit. Previously, I had heard that the law allowed Congress to obtain the records, but it was more for the purpose to see if the President was violating the emoluments clause.
At any rate, while it is important to know that he is getting favorable treatment by the IRS, it is far more important to know if his policy decisions are leading to his personal financial gain.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 03, 2019, 07:40:27 am »
Yeah, I guess it's not just a MH persona but the real deal. It's must be hard to navigate through life with that naivete weighing one down.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 02, 2019, 03:57:38 pm »
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/woman-with-chinese-passports-malware-arrested-at-trumps-mar-a-lago-resort/2019/04/02/3399e426-5583-11e9-814f-e2f46684196e_story.html?utm_term=.e7019f514295
I have no idea if this amounts to anything at all, but these bumbling idiots have no peer. Almost all of Trump's connections are stupid: his children, his staff (both White House and campaign), his attorneys, even the foreign agents he mixes with. In fact, I can only think of two who didn't fit the mold: Rex and Haley, and they both quickly bailed.
Quote
After Zhang was stopped and questioned, a search of her belongings turned up four cell phones, a laptop, a hard drive, and a thumb drive which contained “malicious malware,” according to the criminal complaint. The document says she told Secret Service agents that a Chinese friend instructed her to travel from Shanghai to the president’s Florida resort and make contact with a member of Trump’s family.
I have no idea if this amounts to anything at all, but these bumbling idiots have no peer. Almost all of Trump's connections are stupid: his children, his staff (both White House and campaign), his attorneys, even the foreign agents he mixes with. In fact, I can only think of two who didn't fit the mold: Rex and Haley, and they both quickly bailed.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: April 01, 2019, 09:58:19 am »Jerry Nadler is prepping a subpoena for the full, unredacted Mueller report. Queue the slow, inexorable march towards a 5-4 SCOTUS decision in Trump’s favor.
Good for them. They shouldn't trust Barr or any of the Republicans. It is not beyond them, in fact it is usually their MO, to play dirty, so removing all the bad shit, under whatever pretext is sadly within their wheelhouse.
Seriously, if you're completely exonerated, release the whole fucking thing, at least to Congress. They can cut out the Grand Jury and classified stuff for the public.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: March 25, 2019, 08:39:47 am »
This played out perfectly for Trump. Releasing the conclusions, without the underlying evidence, has allowed the press and Republicans to craft a narrative that nothing happened at all. Complete exoneration!!!!
I want to see all the evidence before I cut him some slack on collusion. It's quite possible that there might have been some collusion-like activities or some seriously stinky shit, but shit that doesn't rise to a crime. It's also possible that most of the dots can be connected, but the final ones can't be due to obstruction or Manafort holding tight.
The no-obstruction claim by Barr appears to be his personal call, not the conclusion of Mueller. Of course, I want to see the underlying evidence on collusion before I get worked up about the obstruction stuff. If there was truly no unseemly stuff to hide, then Congress should leave the obstruction stuff alone, IMO.
Anyways, if they are going to crow about complete exoneration, than they logically have to release everything, just to justify that conclusion. Otherwise, it looks like a rigged system.
I want to see all the evidence before I cut him some slack on collusion. It's quite possible that there might have been some collusion-like activities or some seriously stinky shit, but shit that doesn't rise to a crime. It's also possible that most of the dots can be connected, but the final ones can't be due to obstruction or Manafort holding tight.
The no-obstruction claim by Barr appears to be his personal call, not the conclusion of Mueller. Of course, I want to see the underlying evidence on collusion before I get worked up about the obstruction stuff. If there was truly no unseemly stuff to hide, then Congress should leave the obstruction stuff alone, IMO.
Anyways, if they are going to crow about complete exoneration, than they logically have to release everything, just to justify that conclusion. Otherwise, it looks like a rigged system.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Podcasts
« on: March 22, 2019, 07:58:54 am »
In trying to get in the head of someone or explain their actions, it's never stupid to know their background. But you're right in that I know nothing about her father's role or ethical behavior and what sort of morality was transmitted down to her from her parents. I'm not too high on coincidences however, and would never leave a fact like that unexplored.
Anyways, I listened to the first two podcasts and watched the doc last night. I'm more interested in the psychology of the easily scammed, the hard to scam and those inbetween than in the psychology of the scammers. Regarding her, the doc enables the viewer to be much more charitable to her than the podcast does. Neither really gets into her background much, like she appears on stage without a backstory. No scriptwriter could get away with that. Is she crazy, malicious, longing to fulfill some childhood need, confront a trauma or something else. I haven't heard anything from her family or friends (did she have any). I suppose that greatly contributes to the mystery.
Anyways, I listened to the first two podcasts and watched the doc last night. I'm more interested in the psychology of the easily scammed, the hard to scam and those inbetween than in the psychology of the scammers. Regarding her, the doc enables the viewer to be much more charitable to her than the podcast does. Neither really gets into her background much, like she appears on stage without a backstory. No scriptwriter could get away with that. Is she crazy, malicious, longing to fulfill some childhood need, confront a trauma or something else. I haven't heard anything from her family or friends (did she have any). I suppose that greatly contributes to the mystery.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Podcasts
« on: March 21, 2019, 02:10:38 pm »
I know nothing about this woman's story. Y'alls interest intrigued me, so I looked her up and see she's a scam artist, and her father was at Enron. Are these related and addressed in the podcast? Seems like a fascinating coincidence.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: March 21, 2019, 10:11:53 am »
What are the remaining roster battles?
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Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: March 19, 2019, 01:25:00 pm »I have never understood the Harper mania. He had one insane year, a couple of pretty good years, and most recently a couple of years where he gave his team a WAR that Jake Marisnick could give you. Sure, he hits 20-30 home runs. Great. But the idea that what he gets paid and what Mike Trout, who has a legitimate claim on best player in the game, gets paid are talked about at the same time is crazy to me.
The belief that Harper is some sort of franchise cornerstone is just bizarre. I'd rather have Springer than Harper - no homer - and it's really not all that close.
In my lifetime, there might be a more over-rated player, but I can't recall who that might be.
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: March 19, 2019, 01:22:38 pm »
I haven't heard any updates, but he threw one inning in Saturday's game.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: March 19, 2019, 12:29:48 pm »
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/19/us/politics/devin-nunes-twitter-lawsuit.html
Is this what "snowflake" means?
Is this what "snowflake" means?
Quote
Though absorbing criticism comes with the territory for politicians, the complaint described the objectionable tweets from the three users as something “that no human being should ever have to bear and suffer in their whole life.”
To make his case, he cited a wide variety of tweets that included accusations of criminal misconduct, crude jokes at his expense and relatively banal criticism. The complaint says the tweets “falsely stated” that Mr. Nunes had brought “shame” to his family and that he was voted “Most Likely to Commit Treason” in high school, and that one of them included a cartoon image of a sexual act with Mr. Trump and President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia. The complaint lists dozens of other tweets he found insulting.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: March 19, 2019, 08:01:33 am »In case you were wondering what put Trump into such a Twitter tailspin this weekend, I give you The NY Times:
A Mar-a-Lago Weekend and an Act of God: Trump’s History With Deutsche Bank
Investigators are elbow-deep in Trump’s dealings with DoucheBank.
To me, this is emblematic of the broader investigation in that it's hard to imagine that with all the smoke, there is no underlying fire.
No other business that I can think of intentionally seeks out or willingly accepts big losses, and that is what you have to believe here if there is no underlying corruption. You have to believe that each loan officer and executive signing off said to themselves: "I know these documents are fraudulent, I know he will likely default on the loan and he might even sue us, but hey, he's Donald Trump and all that will ultimately be good for the company."
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Talk Zone / Re: Spring Training 2019
« on: March 16, 2019, 06:50:31 pm »This game today was a pleasure to watch from start to finish. Peacock, Brantley, Correa, Kemp, the kids, Bukauskas, James...What channel showed this? I see it’s scheduled on MLBN on tape delay, but didn’t see it listed live.
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Talk Zone / Re: Spring Training 2019
« on: March 16, 2019, 05:04:01 pm »
I don’t think much shortstop is in Toro’s future. He’s not a Marwin or even a Marwin-lite as a defender.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: State of the System 2019
« on: March 15, 2019, 07:04:00 pm »Ask Trevor Bauer.Gotta give the followers something to think about. Bauer’s their megaphone.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: March 14, 2019, 12:13:41 pm »
https://www.thestar.com/news/world/2019/03/14/trump-issues-warning-to-opponents-it-would-be-very-bad-if-his-military-police-and-biker-supporters-got-tough.html
I understand some of the reticence to move towards impeachment, but this shit is unacceptable in the US. "Threatening democracy and democratic institutions" should be the first article of impeachment.
I understand some of the reticence to move towards impeachment, but this shit is unacceptable in the US. "Threatening democracy and democratic institutions" should be the first article of impeachment.
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Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: March 14, 2019, 08:45:32 am »
They have probably captured when it would happen, but why the hell do they care when a position player takes the mound?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: March 14, 2019, 08:43:20 am »
Agree on the VP implication. I like Beto, but IMO, he needs to step up his game to have a real chance at the top spot.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Minors Spring Training 2019
« on: March 11, 2019, 08:01:20 am »More praise for Brandon Bielak after his 3 shutout innings yesterdayQuote:
Chandler Rome @Chandler_Rome 13h ago
A.J. Hinch: Bielak "probably should be talked about as a guy in the same breath as Whitley and Bukauskas and Martin," Hinch said. "He's got great stuff."
Damn, I hadn't followed this thread. I saw him throw a week or so ago, when he had a solid 8th and a shaky 9th (ending on an illegal slide). Anyways, I'm not sure I would put him in that category, but he was impressive. Didn't have that career minor league or AAAA look.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: March 08, 2019, 09:55:03 am »
"Founder" is a rather glorified term for that business
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Talk Zone / Re: Aches and Pains (2019)
« on: March 06, 2019, 04:10:27 pm »
Chron says "back stiffness" for Bregman. Not good news, but better than elbow.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2019 Rule 5 Draft
« on: March 06, 2019, 03:55:14 pm »
He'll be protected
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Talk Zone / Re: Rusty Staub in the bottom of the ninth
« on: March 06, 2019, 09:54:53 am »
Throwing a 3-2 fastball by Aaron to complete a no hitter is probably the greatest way to complete one.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: March 05, 2019, 02:20:06 pm »
"We're not turning stuff over," says the White House to Dems.
https://www.politico.com/story/2019/03/05/jared-kushner-security-clearance-1204984
Privacy concerns, of course. Apparently, Jared's privacy is more important than overseeing national security concerns.
https://www.politico.com/story/2019/03/05/jared-kushner-security-clearance-1204984
Privacy concerns, of course. Apparently, Jared's privacy is more important than overseeing national security concerns.
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Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: March 05, 2019, 01:43:17 pm »
I've been recording a lot of pro and college baseball lately. When pressed for time, I'll use the 30 sec jump forward between pitches. It's amazing that in college, I might miss two pitches during the jump; in the pros, it's often times up perfectly with the next pitch.
During rough innings, it's also got me wondering more about tempo and whether it's an effect of trouble or a cause of more trouble. Most of the slower tempo results from signs and holding runners, but I wonder if a more conscious effort to keep the tempo up during those innings might help certain pitchers. Kind of like offenses in football: some are just better going faster.
During rough innings, it's also got me wondering more about tempo and whether it's an effect of trouble or a cause of more trouble. Most of the slower tempo results from signs and holding runners, but I wonder if a more conscious effort to keep the tempo up during those innings might help certain pitchers. Kind of like offenses in football: some are just better going faster.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: March 04, 2019, 02:52:00 pm »
NRA. Nice.
The list should include Devin Nunes. Might be against the rules, but any obstruction investigation needs to include him.
The list should include Devin Nunes. Might be against the rules, but any obstruction investigation needs to include him.
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Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: March 02, 2019, 01:20:17 pm »
Fuck Harper. His stupid news conference is cutting into the Astros game. Horseshit
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Talk Zone / Re: 2019 Roster (New & Improved)
« on: February 27, 2019, 02:34:29 pm »
Weren't they planning on going to 26 man rosters?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 27, 2019, 01:11:58 pm »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."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?
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 27, 2019, 10:23:22 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.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 27, 2019, 10:18:40 am »
Yeah, all the election fraud/payoff stuff was transferred from Mueller to SDNY.
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Talk Zone / Re: Bryce Harper
« on: February 21, 2019, 09:49:25 am »My guess is that Harper really doesn't want to play in Philly or he'd already be signed. And that even though Harper once got a 300 million offer from the Nats, I'm skeptical that that deal is still on the table.
If I were Harper, I'd want to play for a team like the Astros who are ready to win right now and for years in the future as well. And maybe I'd take slightly less for that, because what's really the difference when you are talking about these monstrous contracts. And maybe Houston has an advantage because there's no state tax in Texas and state income tax in California is monstrous. Its very high in DC as well and lower in Pa.
But I'm not Harper. And I don't have Boras as my agent. And I haven't been told since forever that I was going to get a $400 million free agent contract.
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.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 19, 2019, 11:57:54 am »
More "Tales from the Swamp"
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/top-trump-appointees-promoted-selling-nuclear-power-plants-to-saudi-arabia-over-objections-from-national-security-officials-house-democratic-report-says/2019/02/19/6a719762-3456-11e9-af5b-b51b7ff322e9_story.html?utm_term=.dc194269cdcd
Basically, Trump associates, including our ex-gov, trying to sell nuke plants over the objections on national security folks in the admin. Follow the money through the most corrupt landscape in presidential history.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/top-trump-appointees-promoted-selling-nuclear-power-plants-to-saudi-arabia-over-objections-from-national-security-officials-house-democratic-report-says/2019/02/19/6a719762-3456-11e9-af5b-b51b7ff322e9_story.html?utm_term=.dc194269cdcd
Basically, Trump associates, including our ex-gov, trying to sell nuke plants over the objections on national security folks in the admin. Follow the money through the most corrupt landscape in presidential history.
Quote
The Cummings report notes that one of the power plant manufacturers that could benefit from a nuclear deal, Westinghouse Electric, is a subsidiary of Brookfield Asset Management, the company that provided financial relief to the family of Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law and adviser. Brookfield Asset Management took a 99-year lease on the family’s deeply indebted New York City property at 666 Fifth Avenue.
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Talk Zone / Re: Troll Bauer
« on: February 19, 2019, 10:01:19 am »
Those quotes should form the basis for the new "Bauer units" that were discussed here recently. Basically, a measure of unpleasantness.
I hope Luhnow sets the bar at 0.2 Bauer units: anyone above that is definitely not a target in free agency or trade.
I hope Luhnow sets the bar at 0.2 Bauer units: anyone above that is definitely not a target in free agency or trade.
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Talk Zone / Re: Bochy Announces Retirement
« on: February 19, 2019, 09:36:09 am »He's won four pennants...every other manager who won that many is in the HOF. He won three World Series...every other manager who won that many is in the HOF. He'll probably end up 10th on the all time wins list, ahead of guys like Casey Stengel, Tommy Lasorda, Earl Weaver, Wilbert Robinson and Whitey Herzog...all HOFers. The only black mark is his record will be slightly below .500. Only Connie Mack and Bucky Harris will likely be worse as HOF managers. Still, I can't see Bochy not being a HOFer.Agreed. These last few years haven't helped his case, but those teams haven't had much to work with.
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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top Prospect Lists 2018-2019
« on: February 15, 2019, 10:30:10 am »
Wow, that's some high praise, but his stuff is pretty sweet. I assume by "command," he is talking more about what I'd call "repeating his delivery." Anyways, I hope that Bowden is correct and he really does turn that corner.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 13, 2019, 01:13:31 pm »
I'm sure that I should know something about Investors Business Daily, but I didn't. However, I hope they give daily investing advice of the same quality to all Trump supporters.
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Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: February 12, 2019, 07:36:52 am »No, it's the prior inning's final batter.I didn't think the idea could get any stupider, but it has. Just makes it a luck of the draw thing.
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Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: February 11, 2019, 12:04:42 pm »Last year, the minors started the 10th inning with a runner on second base. I thought I would hate it but really liked it.I had no idea. Saw a few minor league games, but no extra innings. Can you use anyone, or are the eligibility rules like regular pinch-runner rules?
I would not be in favor, however, of using this for minor league playoff games or in any way in the majors.
I'm for the other changes to speed up the pace of play.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 08, 2019, 08:46:04 am »
I thought the vote was to overturn the LA law.
The hearing has started. The meathead is in his chair and some Republican is squealing, about what I can't really understand.
The hearing has started. The meathead is in his chair and some Republican is squealing, about what I can't really understand.
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Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: February 07, 2019, 06:53:59 pm »Verlander suggested some sort of microphone and ear piece.I laughed cause I first thought it would be from the catcher to the pitcher. “Fastball, high and tight.”
I guess this is for shake offs.
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Talk Zone / Re: Changes to the game coming this year??
« on: February 07, 2019, 03:59:24 pm »The first rule here I think was sort of implemented a couple of seasons ago and then was dropped. If you have a pitching clock (or just the ump nudging the pitcher along) then you also have to have something for the hitter.
https://www.sbnation.com/mlb/2015/2/20/8077537/baseball-new-rule-changes-pace-of-play-instant-replay
Also, some sort of communication device between pitcher and catcher might be thought about.
They can text back and forth.
I agree that the umps will have to deal with batters by just calling the pitch as thrown, whether the batter is ready or not. Like slow pitchers, batters doing their glove stuff between every pitch will have to adjust.
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Beer and Queso / Re: Roger Angell on "Most Important" Vote of His Lifetime
« on: February 07, 2019, 12:13:53 pm »Severe flop-sweat warning:
When the Senate postponed the confirmation vote on Trump's nominee for AG, there was an interesting side effect. Acting AGWilson FiskMatthew Whitaker had been called to testify to the House Judiciary Committee on 2/8, but he was expected to be able to body-swerve that appearance when the new AG was put in place. Once that didn't happen, Whitaker's date became set and now he's scrambling because he's going to be on the spot and he has no clue what he is doing.
Oh, and the ramp up the pressure, Chairman Nadler has announced that he has subpoenas already drafted and will use them on Whitaker during his testimony if they think he is being evasive or untruthful. Whitaker may spend more time in jail than he spent as Acting AG.
From CNN:
Quote
The Justice Department told the House Judiciary Committee Thursday afternoon that acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker will not appear at Friday's closely-watched oversight hearing unless he receives a written assurance by 6 p.m. ET Thursday that he will not be served with the subpoena the committee pre-emptively authorized to use if he avoids questions.
Damn, just like one of Trump's criminal associates. What does he have to hide? Crooked motherfuckers, all of em.