Astros at Dickities - 5/10/07

[ValpoCory]

Houston
O. Palmeiro rf    .222    
M. Loretta ss    .385    
L. Berkman 1b    .288    
C. Lee lf    .287    
L. Scott cf    .261    
M. Lamb 3b    .353    
C. Burke 2b    .234    
B. Ausmus c    .284    
M. Albers p    .167    
   
 Cincinnati
R. Freel 3b    .261    
S. Hatteberg 1b    .298    
K. Griffey Jr. rf    .312    
B. Phillips 2b    .272    
A. Dunn lf    .270    
J. Hamilton cf    .277    
J. Castro ss    .115    
D. Ross c    .205    
A. Harang p    .133    


Albers (1-1, 3.32) vs. Harang (4-1, 4.78)

[WulawHorn]

innuresting. Is this OP's first start of the year?

[ValpoCory]

innuresting. Is this OP's first start of the year?

Yep.

[Lefty]

Is this the worst defensive 9 ever assembled?  We'll see.

[ValpoCory]

Is this the worst defensive 9 ever assembled?  We'll see.

Ausmus can cover all fields.

[Noe]

Is this the worst defensive 9 ever assembled?  We'll see.

Add to that the fact that Fat Albers is a hard sinker pitcher and it should make for an innuresting afternoon of baseball.

[Limey]

Add to that the fact that Fat Albers is a hard sinker pitcher and it should make for an innuresting afternoon of baseball.

Anything hit to the left side is going to be an adventure.

[astrofan]

Luke has only played two innings in center in his Major League career as far as I could tell.

[MRaup]

Is this the worst defensive 9 ever assembled?  We'll see.

Burke at 2nd heals all wounds! He'll save us all!

Oh wait, that was last year.

[austro]

innuresting.

I suppose that's one word for it. Others that occurred to me were "scary", "lots of holes", and "Reds-like".  But the bench has to get some game time, too, so let's see what they can do.

Why does the Austin paper say this is a 7pm game?

[WulawHorn]

I suppose that's one word for it. Others that occurred to me were "scary", "lots of holes", and "Reds-like".  But the bench has to get some game time, too, so let's see what they can do.

Why does the Austin paper say this is a 7pm game?

Kirk Bohls on fact check.

Holy shit- I didn't read the lineup carefully enough- didn't even notice Loretta at short and Luke in CF. Somehow my brain skipped over Burke in CF and Pence not in the game.

Scary is better than interesting, for sure.

[astrofan]

feels like a rerun of 'Sundays with Jimah'

[MRaup]

Kirk Bohls on fact check.

Holy shit- I didn't read the lineup carefully enough- didn't even notice Loretta at short and Luke in CF. Somehow my brain skipped over Burke in CF and Pence not in the game.

Scary is better than interesting, for sure.

They've clinched a winning road trip, its a day game after a night game, and I'm sure some of the regulars are getting a bit road weary.

Nothing wrong with trotting out the bench guys every once in a while.

Shit, the Cards did it last night and destroyed the Rocks 9-2.

Kennedy 2b
Duncan LF
Pujols 1B
Edmonds CF
Spiezio 3B
Ludwick RF
Bennett C
Miles SS
Wainwright P

[pravata]

Burke at 2nd heals all wounds! He'll save us all!

Oh wait, that was last year.

Use the Force, Luuuuuuuuuuuuuke!

[Bench]

They've clinched a winning road trip, its a day game after a night game, and I'm sure some of the regulars are getting a bit road weary.

Nothing wrong with trotting out the bench guys every once in a while.

Exactly. Playing with house money at this point. I am, however, surprised to see the rookie get the day off.

[MRaup]

Exactly. Playing with house money at this point. I am, however, surprised to see the rookie get the day off.

The rookie is reaching more than Matamorph was in the Pence thread the other day right now...

Maybe a day off/in the cage will help get him back on track.

[Noe]

I suppose that's one word for it. Others that occurred to me were "scary", "lots of holes", and "Reds-like".  But the bench has to get some game time, too, so let's see what they can do.

Why does the Austin paper say this is a 7pm game?

The Chinese have a proverb that actually doubles as a curse for an enemy:

"May you live in innuresting times".

I imagine those were southern Chinese saying it.

[austro]

Exactly. Playing with house money at this point. I am, however, surprised to see the rookie get the day off.

Think of the upside: we have a nice batch of pinch-hitters available for the always-accommodating Reds' bullpen.

[Noe]

Exactly. Playing with house money at this point. I am, however, surprised to see the rookie get the day off.

"grip it and rip it" takes a toll on the mental aspect of the game.  He needed a time out.

[MRaup]

Just want to get it off my chest before anything happens that would make me scream it...

I hate Aaran Fucking Harang.

[Amy]

Is this the worst defensive 9 ever assembled?  We'll see.

Brutal.  A Jimy special.

[WulawHorn]

I understand the reason for the radical lineup change- with all the travel, and the day game after a night game on getaway day. The think that sucks is it looked like they were starting to get going. Bad time for this day game getaway.

[Noe]

I understand the reason for the radical lineup change- with all the travel, and the day game after a night game on getaway day. The think that sucks is it looked like they were starting to get going. Bad time for this day game getaway.

Is the game over?  Come on, this whining before the fact is highly unnecessary unless it's humorous or sad or both.

[MRaup]

I understand the reason for the radical lineup change- with all the travel, and the day game after a night game on getaway day. The think that sucks is it looked like they were starting to get going. Bad time for this day game getaway.

And a day off is going to bring the momentum the a crashing halt?

What the hell man? You're Paul Hooding...

[WulawHorn]

Is the game over?  Come on, this whining before the fact is highly unnecessary unless it's humorous or sad or both.

Sorry - I just had to catch a phone call. My next sentence was going to be, "unless you win in which case it is awesome..." gets the bench guys work- keeps em sharp etc.  

Cincy isn't exactly going with their OD lineup either.

Plus, with the feebleness against Harang for some time changes were probably in store anywya.

[Noe]

Sorry - I just had to catch a phone call. My next sentence was going to be, "unless you win in which case it is awesome..." gets the bench guys work- keeps em sharp etc. 

Cincy isn't exactly going with their OD lineup either.

Plus, with the feebleness against Harang for some time changes were probably in store anywya.

Nice recovery, but I dunno.  What feebleness against Harang?

[WulawHorn]

Nice recovery, but I dunno.  What feebleness against Harang?

hasn't he won like 4 or 5 starts in a row, over the last couple years, against the good guys.

Should probably not post in this format with all the calls I'm having to catch.

Thanks for the pbp whoever is doing it, it is very in and out attention wise at work.

[WulawHorn]

And a day off is going to bring the momentum the a crashing halt?

What the hell man? You're Paul Hooding...

Hopefully not- 4 in a row and back to level would be nice though...

[Lefty]

Not saying AE catches that, but that was an uuuuuugly dive by Loretta.

[Alkie]

Is the game over?  Come on, this whining before the fact is highly unnecessary unless it's humorous or sad or both.

How bout now?

[WulawHorn]

PBP anyone? bueller, bueller...

[WulawHorn]

How bout now?

wha happened?

[MRaup]

wha happened?

Alkie scooted wrong in his chair and it made his undies ride up.

[Alkie]

Alkie scooted wrong in his chair and it made his undies ride up.

Actually, I was just giving Noe a hard time.  I'm barely able to watch the game and just looked up and noticed runners on the corners.

[MRaup]

Actually, I was just giving Noe a hard time.  I'm barely able to watch the game and just looked up and noticed runners on the corners.

Sorry, was assuming it was time for my obnoxious comment.

[Jacksonian]

Sorry, was assuming it was time for my obnoxious comment.

I don't recall you waiting for a time before.

[JaneDoe]

For those of us stuck at work, outside of radio range, no mlb.tv, can someone PLEASE do PBP that is a little more descriptive (color needed) than what is on GameDay.

We thank you profusely in advance.

[MRaup]

I don't recall you waiting for a time before.

Well, maybe I'm maturing!

[Lefty]

wha happened?

low softish liner to the right of Loretta, humpbacked dive & roll, ball off his glove.
hatteberg ropes 1st pitch to RF, 1st & 3rd
griffey fly to CF, Scott with a candyass throw home, no chance to get Freel
phillips tapper to 3rd, no play by Lamb

1st/2nd 1 out.

[Amy]

That little bastard needs drilling.

[Alkie]

Well, maybe I'm maturing!

Hahahahhahah.  Oh man.  Thanks.

You owe me a corned beef sammich.

[MRaup]

Hahahahhahah.  Oh man.  Thanks.

You owe me a corned beef sammich.

And you owe me a high paying easy job as a bodyguard.

[Jacksonian]

Well, maybe I'm maturing!

Bwahahahahahahahaha!

[Navin R Johnson]

hasn't he won like 4 or 5 starts in a row, over the last couple years, against the good guys

No he won those against the rat bastards, NOT the "Good Guys." 

[Alkie]

And you owe me a high paying easy job as a bodyguard.

Give me the sammich; we'll talk.

Hey!  Looks like I get to go back to work early today.

[otterjb]

What an ugly fucking start for Albers and the Astros.

[Jacksonian]

Oh boy.

[Noe]

Adam Dunn hits a three run homerun, 4-0 Reds... only one out... first inning.

[MRaup]

No he won those against the rat bastards, NOT the "Good Guys." 

Speaking of Rat Bastards, fuck Adam Dunn.

[JaneDoe]

4-0 REDS? already?

DAMN smiley faces.

[WulawHorn]

That didn't sound like a HR call by DoRay me or whoever is on the mike- I'm out from listening to the radio. THanks to anyone who can give up PBP, it is appreciated.

[Noe]

4-0 REDS?? already??? 

Yes, Albers ain't fooling anyone and when he does, they hit em' where they ain't.

[MRaup]

Sounded like another Adam Dunn high fly ball that just snuck over the fence.

[Alkie]

Yes, Albers ain't fooling anyone and when he does, they hit em' where they ain't.

...like the berm behind the fence.

[Noe]

4-0 REDS? already?

DAMN smiley faces.

Tammy Faye giveth... Tammy Faye taketh away.

[MRaup]

Sounds like Albers broke a mirror after tripping over a black cat and falling under a ladder at some point this week.

[Limey]

Yes, Albers ain't fooling anyone and when he does, they hit em' where they ain't.

The bleachers?

[Noe]

...like the berm behind the fence.

It ain't over until... well... maybe one more inning at least!

[Jacksonian]

And you owe me a high paying easy job as a bodyguard.

I don't think you'd like his friends with benefits package.

[otterjb]

Sounded like another Adam Dunn high fly ball that just snuck over the fence.

Yep, it just barely cleared the center field wall.

[Lefty]

Sounded like another Adam Dunn high fly ball that just snuck over the fence.

Yep.  Kind of a tough luck inning for Albers. 

[MRaup]

I don't think you'd like his friends with benefits package.

I've known ol' Alkie for a while. I've seen the friends with benefits package in action. Or at least heard it over the phone in action. Lots of screaming and words that make even me blush.

[Alkie]

How is a HR to dead center tough luck?  Those don't accidentally go 410 feet.

[Alkie]

I've known ol' Alkie for a while. I've seen the friends with benefits package in action. Or at least heard it over the phone in action. Lots of screaming and words that make even me blush.

"WHERE'S....MY...BADGER....PIZZA...BITCH???"

Good times, dude.  Good times.

[Noe]

Yep.  Kind of a tough luck inning for Albers. 

Tammy Faye is a fickle beeyotch... she may turn on Harang as well.  How is that for pollyana?  How am I doing?  Anybody have a roast beef sammich for me?

[MRaup]

How is a HR to dead center tough luck?  Those don't accidentally go 410 feet.

Was thinking more along the lines of the ball in and out of Loretta's glove, the dribbler up the line, and the shallow fly that Freel scored on?

[Alkie]

You shoulda said something while I was still at the deli.

[MRaup]

"WHERE'S....MY...BADGER....PIZZA...BITCH???"

Good times, dude.  Good times.

Oh... Oh Jesus.

[otterjb]

How is a HR to dead center tough luck?  Those don't accidentally go 410 feet.

It wasn't quite dead center, and it wasn't luck, it just happened to look like a looping fly ball that went far as fuck.

[Lefty]

How is a HR to dead center tough luck?  Those don't accidentally go 410 feet.

Weak liner by Freel, dribbler by Phillips, 3-2 pitch to Dunn, following at least 1 close no-call.  Shit happens.

[Noe]

You shoulda said something while I was still at the deli.

Damnit, be back in a minute then... gotta go get some lunch!  Screw you Alkie!

[Alkie]

Oh... Oh Jesus.

I left something out.

"WHERE <slap> IS <spank> MY <burp> BADGER <BOOOOING> PIZZA <ptooey>  BITCH?"

[Alkie]

It wasn't quite dead center, and it wasn't luck, it just happened to look like a looping fly ball that went far as fuck.

It was dead center, or do you require dead center to actually be directly over the measurement number?

ETA:  I just wound it back.  The ball landed MAYBE 10 feet to the left of the deepest part of dead center.   Nitpicky much?

[Lefty]

Freel with another front row special.  Crazy fuck is going to really hurt someone soon, now that he's the everyday 3B.

[MRaup]

I left something out.

"WHERE <slap> IS <spank> MY <burp> BADGER <BOOOOING> PIZZA <ptooey>  BITCH?"

I'm having an acid flashback... And I've never done acid.

[otterjb]

It was dead center, or do you require dead center to actually be directly over the measurement number?

I don't require anything. But yeah, it pretty much was right there in center.

[Noe]

Astros:

Luke Scott - FO 8
Mike Lamb - SGL, 1 on, 1 out
Chris Burke - GO, 6-3, two out
Brad Ausmus - GO 6-3, three out

[Alkie]

I don't require anything. But yeah, it pretty much was right there in center.

I can't believe we're having this discussion.

The ball went 404 feet.  To center.

[otterjb]

I can't believe we're having this discussion.

The ball went 404 feet.  To center.

Yup. Semantics are the retard.

[pravata]

Astros:

Luke Scott - FO 8
Mike Lamb - SGL, 1 on, 1 out
Chris Burke - GO, 6-3, two out
Brad Ausmus - GO 6-3, three out

Are they at least making Harang pitch?

[JimR]

Brutal.  A Jimy special.

fuck this. they are all MLB players. damn, you say stupid things. i think you try to.

[Alkie]

Back to work.  Peace folks.

[Limey]

Matty may not get an at-bat...again.

[JimR]

Are they at least making Harang pitch?

no other way to get the ball to the plate. he has to.

looks like the only lineup decision that hurt was a failure to station someone on the other side of the fence.

[At Ease]

He came.  He came.  and he vanished.

[Limey]

looks like the only lineup decision that hurt was a failure to station someone on the other side of the fence.

Right.  The Reds are bypassing the defense.

[Amy]

fuck this. they are all MLB players. damn, you say stupid things. i think you try to.

So you don't think this is a brutal defensive lineup?

[MRaup]

God damnit I hate Ken Griffey Jr.

[otterjb]

They just said that the infield looks like Baghdad because of the smoke from the fireworks. Wowsers.

Time to score 23 runs.

[pravata]

no other way to get the ball to the plate. he has to.

looks like the only lineup decision that hurt was a failure to station someone on the other side of the fence.

This, and his last start, may be taking the pressure off Purpura on what to do about bringing up White. 

[Lefty]

Are they at least making Harang pitch?

No, outside of Palmeiro & Lamb.  There's been 4 1-pitch ABs I think.

[JimR]

So you don't think this is a brutal defensive lineup?

no, but i think differently about what "brutal" is. that makes me wrong, i'm sure.

[MRaup]

This, and his last start, may be taking the pressure off Purpura on what to do about bringing up White. 

Who would be the 5th starter?

[Limey]

No, outside of Palmeiro & Lamb.  There's been 4 1-pitch ABs I think.

Harang 27 pitches through 2 innings.  Albers, 29.  Bizarre.

[pravata]

Who would be the 5th starter?

Moehler maybe?  I read Jennings is going to be back in less than 2 weeks.

[Lefty]

Who would be the 5th starter?

Moehler, until JJ is ready.

1st time through the lineup:  2 1-pitch ABs, 4 2-pitch ABs.

[MRaup]

Moehler maybe?  I read Jennings is going to be back in less than 2 weeks.

I'm intrigued by your ideas, and I'd like to subscribe to your newsletter...

[astrofan]

op has seen 15 of  the 35 pitches from harang today

[pravata]

op has seen 15 of  the 35 pitches from harang today

Professional hitter with a plan.

[austro]

Harang 27 pitches through 2 innings.  Albers, 29.  Bizarre.

Gameday says Albers has 48 through 2. Seems more likely.

[Noe]

Albers lines out to first, one down.
Palmeiro - GO 6-3, two down
Loretta - FO 9, three down

[Noe]

Adam Dunn triples to dead center.

[MRaup]

Dear Matt Albers,

Go Fuck Yourself.

Love,
Mark

[Lefty]

Just about anybody but Dunn has an inside the parker on that one.

[Noe]

Adam Dunn triples to dead center.

Hamilton - sac fly to left, run scores.  One down. (7-0 Reds)

[Noe]

Hamilton - sac fly to left, run scores.  One down. (7-0 Reds)

Castro grounds out, two down
Ross, FO 9, three down.

Tack on one more run.  7-0 Reds.

[Noe]

Berkman singles to right, 1 on, no out.

[Noe]

Berkman singles to right, 1 on, no out.

Lee FO to Hamilton, one down.

[Savage]

For those of us stuck only with gameday, can someone give some color on Albers pitching today?  Obviously he's sucking, but is it "I got myself into a jam and am unwinding" trouble or "I just can't keep the ball down" trouble or "where the hell is the strikezone" trouble?

[Noe]

Lee FO to Hamilton, one down.

Scott FO to Hamilton, two down.

[Noe]

Scott FO to Hamilton, two down.

Lamb single to center, two on, two out.

[MRaup]

For those of us stuck only with gameday, can someone give some color on Albers pitching today?  Obviously he's sucking, but is it "I got myself into a jam and am unwinding" trouble or "I just can't keep the ball down" trouble or "where the hell is the strikezone" trouble?

8 hits and 7 runs in 3 innings should tell you he is not keeping the ball down. Sinker ballers that aren't sinking balls = getting shelled.

[Noe]

Lamb single to center, two on, two out.

BURKE THREE RUN SHIBBY!!!!

[MRaup]

BURKE THREE RUN SHIBBY!!!!

Holy poop on a stick!

[astrofan]

I don't think Albers will be sent to RR, but if he did, who would the fifth starter be?

[Lefty]

Well, ladies & gents, we just might have ourselves a ballgame.

[pravata]

I don't think Albers will be sent to RR, but if he did, who would the fifth starter be?

PENCE!!! or it could be the other way around.

[Noe]

BURKE THREE RUN SHIBBY!!!!

Brad Ausmus hits a fly ball to right, Griffey miraculously turns the routine fly into a running catch.

three down.

[MRaup]

Brad Ausmus hits a fly ball to right, Griffey miraculously turns the routine fly into a running catch.

three down.

I wish Griffey's hamstring or calf or achilles or whatever would just rupture again. God I can't stand that guy.

[Noe]

PENCE!!! or it could be the other way around.

Gunther is definitely an option to go back down.  To put it succinctly, he needs some work.

[Noe]

Harang floats a single over Loretta, 1 on, no out

(Darn you Fat Albers, don't give up now!)

[Noe]

Harang floats a single over Loretta, 1 on, no out

(Darn you Fat Albers, don't give up now!)

Brian Moehler warming up...

[Noe]

Harang floats a single over Loretta, 1 on, no out

(Darn you Fat Albers, don't give up now!)

Ryan "Dirty Man" Freel - BB, two on, no out.  Matt Albers is getting a visit from Scraps.

He's gone... in comes Moehler.  Albers just didn't have it today.

[pravata]

Ryan "Dirty Man" Freel - BB, two on, no out.  Matt Albers is getting a visit from Scraps.

He's gone... in comes Moehler.  Albers just didn't have it today.

Bad, good, then bad again.  Maybe it's Cincinnati.

[MRaup]

Ryan "Dirty Man" Freel - BB, two on, no out.  Matt Albers is getting a visit from Scraps.

He's gone... in comes Moehler.  Albers just didn't have it today.

Garner gave him a chance to leave on a good note, and he gave up a hit to the pitcher and walked the leadoff guy.

Piss FUCKING poor.

[Noe]

Bad, good, then bad again.  Maybe it's Cincinnati.

Do-Ray says the "defense hurt Albers today!".  WTF?!?!

[MRaup]

Do-Ray says the "defense hurt Albers today!".  WTF?!?!

Think he was talking more along the lines of not having AE and Ensberg out there... But, I disagree with his point anyway.

[Noe]

Think he was talking more along the lines of not having AE and Ensberg out there... But, I disagree with his point anyway.

And Lane in center... because Luke had a funny route to Dunn's triple I suppose.

[Amy]

Do-Ray says the "defense hurt Albers today!".  WTF?!?!

Well, it didn't help him, but that wasn't the real problem.

[Noe]

Ryan "Dirty Man" Freel - BB, two on, no out.  Matt Albers is getting a visit from Scraps.

He's gone... in comes Moehler.  Albers just didn't have it today.

Hatteburgh K, one down
Here's Mr. Griffey...

[MRaup]

Well, it didn't help him, but that wasn't the real problem.

Complaining about defense when you've given up 2 homers and a triple off the wall in center is a bit laughable.

[Noe]

Well, it didn't help him, but that wasn't the real problem.

Do-Ray didn't back down on it, but they also said "not to question Gar... they have been winning ... but..."

[Noe]

Complaining about defense when you've given up 2 homers and a triple off the wall in center is a bit laughable.

They think Luke misplayed that one into a triple.

[astrofan]

5 runs off of HRs?  Hard to blame the defense for those.

[Lefty]

They think Luke misplayed that one into a triple.

I agree.  Completely misjudged the wall & mistimed his jump.

[Amy]

They think Luke misplayed that one into a triple.

He didn't look good on it.  I'm thinking Lane might have caught it.  But it was hit a long way.

[Noe]

Hatteburgh K, one down
Here's Mr. Griffey...

Griffey, BB... bases juiced.
Brandon Phillips will now be swinging from his heels for sure.

[EasTexAstro]

Brian Moehler warming up...

Ya know, I could see Brian walking up to the park he stops, finds some guy about his size...

BM: "Wanna watch the game from the bullpen?"

Stranger: "Um...sure!"

BM: "Put this on and sit over in the corner of the pen."

S:"What if they...."

BM: "Don't worry. They never call my number. I'm not sure if they remember I am still on the team. They make me wear a nametag and carry Berkman's extra snack bag, PENCE!'s cape, and some ointment for Wandy's lip!

S: "Look, I'll bring you a pizza or something, but....I gotta go, dude."

[Lefty]

Well, it didn't help him, but that wasn't the real problem.

Exactly.

[Noe]

I agree.  Completely misjudged the wall & mistimed his jump.

I didn't see it, listening to the game on radio.

[Noe]

Griffey, BB... bases juiced.
Brandon Phillips will now be swinging from his heels for sure.

Phillips - COMEBACKER - 1 to 2 to 3 - GIDP!  Inning over.

no runs scored.

[MRaup]

Phillips - COMEBACKER - 1 to 2 to 3 - GIDP!  Inning over.

no runs scored.

Moehler is nails.

[Amy]

I didn't see it, listening to the game on radio.

He's right, the jump looked bad.  He was pretty close even at that.

[Noe]

Phillips - COMEBACKER - 1 to 2 to 3 - GIDP!  Inning over.

no runs scored.

I can see Phillips swinging really hard and Moehler just throwing one with just enough of a wrinkle to make him ground out weakly... as he did.

Nice job.

[Foghorn]

He's right, the jump looked bad.  He was pretty close even at that.

Scruffy!!!!

[Limey]

5 runs off of HRs?  Hard to blame the defense for those.

Better D might have kept a couple of those ducks off the pond.  Hair...split.

[Noe]

He's right, the jump looked bad.  He was pretty close even at that.

Do-Ray were saying that Luke would've caught it had he just kept running back and stayed on his feet.  Instead, it was a premature jump for Luke that made that long fly ball into a triple.

[Lefty]

Moehler is nails.

Dunno why, but I've been rooting for Moehler since ST.  He certainly hasn't disappointed.

[Noe]

Moehler K - one down.
Palmeiro up...

[Noe]

Moehler K - one down.
Palmeiro up...

Orlando, GO 6-3, two down.
In steps Loretta....

[Amy]

Dunno why, but I've been rooting for Moehler since ST.  He certainly hasn't disappointed.

He's paying us back for 2003.

[Noe]

Orlando, GO 6-3, two down.
In steps Loretta....

Mark Loretta, single to left, two out
Here comes the Big Puma...

[Limey]

Random observation:  Harang looks like Alkie and Fred Gwynn had a love child.

[Noe]

Mark Loretta, single to left, two out
Here comes the Big Puma...

Berkman, BB, two on, two out.
El Kabong, you're up!

[Bench]

Do-Ray on Harang pitching away to Berkman and Lee:

"It's almost like he realizes one of these guys might have the power to change the score with one swing."

Uh, I'm pretty sure he actually realizes that.

[Bench]

Berkman, BB, two on, two out.
El Kabong, you're up!

Berkman ties Barry Bonds for most walks in the league.

[JimR]

Berkman, BB, two on, two out.
El Kabong, you're up!

why does anyone try to come inside on Lee?

[Limey]

Do-Ray on Harang pitching away to Berkman and Lee:

"It's almost like he realizes one of these guys might have the power to change the score with one swing."

Uh, I'm pretty sure he actually realizes that.

To be followed by Scott and Lamb, who aren't to shabby.

[Noe]

Berkman, BB, two on, two out.
El Kabong, you're up!

(Do-Ray: "For a guy with a four run lead, Harang is pitching like he's scared!")
Lee - single to center, Loretta scores... man on first and second, two out.
LUUUUUUUKKKKKKEEEEEE... you're next!

[Amy]

Luuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuke!!!

[homer]

Lee was loping to third. He is not a very good baserunner.

[otterjb]

Goonies never say die.

[Amy]

Lee just dug a trench sliding into third.

[Rebel Jew]

Lee running to third like he had paint cans tied around his ankles.

[Noe]

(Do-Ray: "For a guy with a four run lead, Harang is pitching like he's scared!")
Lee - single to center, Loretta scores... man on first and second, two out.
LUUUUUUUKKKKKKEEEEEE... you're next!

Scott - smash to right field, Berkman scores... Lee is thrown out at third by Griffey, that ends the rally... but the Astros pull back to within two.

Hold them there Moehler...

[Limey]

why does anyone try to come inside on Lee?

Why does Lee ever try and take more than one base?

[Lefty]

Kabong!!! with yet another clutch 2 out rbi.

Luuuuuuuuuuuuuke!!! follows with a single to right, Lee out by a couple of steps at 3rd, *great* throw by Griffey, Berkman scores just ahead of the out.

7-5 fucksticks...Harang over 80 pitches.

Bring it the hell on.

[Foghorn]

Why does Lee ever try and take more than one base?

We're running into some outs lately.  Fire the 3B coach!!!

[Noe]

I will have to go, someone who is not a jinx take over PBP after this half inning.

[ybbodeus]

Why does Lee ever try and take more than one base?

He needs someone chuggin' along about six feet behind him telling him to hurry up....

[Taras Bulba]

Why does Lee ever try and take more than one base?

It's a Panamanian thing.  His blood demands it.

[Amy]

I will have to go, someone who is not a jinx take over PBP after this half inning.

Guess that leaves me out.

[JimR]

Lee was loping to third. He is not a very good baserunner.

he was running hard...just too long in one place.

[Lefty]

2B down the RF line for Dunn, now a single away from the cycle.

[JimR]

We're running into some outs lately.  Fire the 3B coach!!!

great throw. nothing wrong with the attempt.

we are lucky the run counted. Lance eased up and whether he scored before the out was bang, bang.

[Noe]

Dunn the Magnificent - double to right.
(damn!)
Here is Senor Hamilton....

[Noe]

Guess that leaves me out.

Yes, not sure why the BBGs honored my pollyanna ways... but they did.  Now someone will have to take it home... (after this very critical inning).

[otterjb]

The Astros should try to fill every position with athletic, fat-ish guys. That'd be awesome.

[JimR]

The Astros should try to fill every position with athletic, fat-ish guys. That'd be awesome.

would there be a job for you then?

[otterjb]

would there be a job for you then?

I'm definitely fat-ish, but my last official baseball was played in jr. high, so, probably not.

[T. J.]

The Astros should try to fill every position with athletic, fat-ish guys. That'd be awesome.

Did you say fetish guys?

[Noe]

Dunn the Magnificent - double to right.
(damn!)
Here is Senor Hamilton....

Hamilton - FO 8, one down, Dunn stays at second.
Castro (non Fidel kind) steps in...

[Noe]

Hamilton - FO 8, one down, Dunn stays at second.
Castro (non Fidel kind) steps in...

Castro - K swinging... two out, Dunn still at second.
Hey Ross... your turn!

[otterjb]

Did you say fetish guys?

Even better/weirder: fetish, fatish, mlb'ers.

[JimR]

Castro - K swinging... two out, Dunn still at second.
Hey Ross... your turn!

Moehler is throwing very well.

shit--my fault.

high FB on 2-1 pitch with a base open.

still, i'd take him as the 5th starter.

[Amy]

Ruh-roh.  Can we not station Scott on the CF berm?

[Noe]

Castro - K swinging... two out, Dunn still at second.
Hey Ross... your turn!

Ross - TWO RUN HOMERUN (with the pitcher on deck... well now?)
Harang now batting...

[MusicMan]

Sorry, IBB would have been the right move, simply to force the PH.

[JimR]

Ross - TWO RUN HOMERUN (with the pitcher on deck... well now?)
Harang now batting...

Harang hit a looping single with a tennis racket swing.

lots of game left. they would not have PH for their ace in the 5th.

[Lefty]

TWO RUN HOMERUN (with the pitcher on deck... well now?)

Don't understand that either.

But they can't get Harang out today anyway.  Dammit.

[Noe]

Ross - TWO RUN HOMERUN (with the pitcher on deck... well now?)
Harang now batting...

(Do-Ray says that Keplinger was on-deck, not Harang... all the better, get the Cincy bullpen ready to go).

Harang blops a single to center, two out, one on.
"Dirty Pants" Freel up....

[Lefty]

(Do-Ray says that Keplinger was on-deck, not Harang... all the better, get the Cincy bullpen ready to go).

Holy Crap!  Then I REALLY don't understand pitching to Ross.

[Noe]

(Do-Ray says that Keplinger was on-deck, not Harang... all the better, get the Cincy bullpen ready to go).

Harang blops a single to center, two out, one on.
"Dirty Pants" Freel up....

Freel - GO 3 unassisted.  Two runs score (7 of the 9 Reds runs scored on homeruns).

Alrighty then, who is doing PBP... somebody call it.

[Noe]

Holy Crap!  Then I REALLY don't understand pitching to Ross.

If I heard them right, Harang didn't come back out until Ross hit the ball.

[Amy]

Please god make this Coors Light fan thing STOP!

[JimR]

Holy Crap!  Then I REALLY don't understand pitching to Ross.

that was to keep them from walking him. Harang was not coming out.

[JimR]

Phillips jammed badly, 82 hopper where no one could get it into LF
2 on, one out

[JimR]

Super Dunn up
needs a single for The Cycle
3-6-1 DP instead

[Amy]

Doubled up slow ass Dunn!  Good job Twinkie!!

[JimR]

Doubled up slow ass Dunn!  Good job Twinkie!!

Twinkie did nothing but catch and throw and watch.
good job Moehler.

[JimR]

Harang wild high
conference in progress: "do you want those guys in here, Aaron?"

[JimR]

3-0
ball four called strike one

F-7

[MusicMan]

How many times do you see it... the pitcher finishes one inning with a compliment from Jim, and leads off the next with a single?

[Lefty]

Lee busted his ass out of the box & down the line that time.

[MusicMan]

Lee with an infield hit?

Dogs and cats, sleeping together.

[ValpoCory]

Reds 9, Astros 5 -- Top 8th

Burke HBP, bases juiced with 1 out.

[BudGirl]

Oh no.

[MusicMan]

Lamb with a single to CF (please make him the everyday 3b) and Burke HBP.

Stanton done, Ausmus due up.

[Foghorn]

Put in ICEBERG!!!!

[Bench]

Classic.

[BudGirl]

Put in ICEBERG!!!!

You gonna have Q catching for Lidge, Qualls, and  Wheeler instead of Ausmus?

[Twoniner]

Ausmus should not have batted.     Zero chance to clear the bases and a huge double play risk.

[MusicMan]

Fuck.

Ausmus with the infield fly.

[T. J.]

You gonna have Q catching for Lidge, Qualls, and  Wheeler instead of Ausmus?

Apparently.

Edit:  Nevermind - CBS Sportsline scoreboard is about 10 minutes behind.  I thought Ensberg was in for Ausmus.

[BudGirl]

At least he didn't hit into a DP.

[JimR]

You gonna have Q catching for Lidge, Qualls, and  Wheeler instead of Ausmus?

hell, yes. he is a VERY good catcher. that AB was pathetic.

[Bench]

Ausmus should not have batted.     Zero chance to clear the bases and a huge double play risk.

That's a bit much.

[ValpoCory]

You gonna have Q catching for Lidge, Qualls, and  Wheeler instead of Ausmus?

Would you rather have Ausmus catching with a 4 run deficit?

[Twoniner]

8th inning and you are down 4.  Run prevention and who is catching is pretty damn far down the list of concerns,  or should be.

[pravata]

Ausmus should not have batted.     Zero chance to clear the bases and a huge double play risk.

Ausmus has been one of the Astros better hitters so far this season.

[Lefty]

You gonna have Q catching for Lidge, Qualls, and  Wheeler instead of Ausmus?

If the tradeoff is not having Ausmus up down 4, bases juiced, in the 8th inning?

Hell yes. 

[Bench]

Round and round they go.

[MusicMan]

"One thing you can say about Ensberg - he is a very patient hitter."

Understatement of the year by Do-Ray.

[Amy]

Damn, that was close Mo!

[ValpoCory]

Good AB by Ensberg so far.

edit: fuck, my bad.

[MusicMan]

Oh shit.  Thought he had gotten that one.  Damn you, Do-Ray.

[Amy]

Bullshit call!!

[MusicMan]

"Called strike three."

So fucking predictable.

[BudGirl]

Then why didn't Garner ph for Ausmus?  You guys know almost everything, tell me.  The only reason I can think of why Garner didn't ph for him is that he wanted Ausmus in for the rest of the game.

[Lefty]

Jeeeeezus.

Morgan cannot buy a fucking break.

Though the pitch before looked a lot like a strike.  The one he got called out on was very questionable.

[otterjb]

Ensberg just went all Carlton Fisk, pumping his fist to will it fair, with the 3-2, 2 out bases loaded, near grand slam. And then he watched strike 3.

[T. J.]

Well, his Pitches per at-bat stat went up anyway.

[ValpoCory]

Good job by David Weathers.  I wonder how many bases loaded, 1 out jams he has come in and successfully pitched out of in his career.

[JimR]

Bullshit call!!

no, Amy, it was not. it was strike three, and more than that, it was too close to take. FOUL THE FUCKING BALL OFF.

that is why i would put him on a raft and cast him adrift.

[pravata]

Then why didn't Garner ph for Ausmus?  You guys know almost everything, tell me.  The only reason I can think of why Garner didn't ph for him is that he wanted Ausmus in for the rest of the game.

I think it's because he's been hitting the ball lately.  I dont think Garner is trying to match Ausmus with Lidge etc. this season.

[MusicMan]

Trade him while someone might still harbor the belief that he has value.

[Twoniner]

Ausmus should not have batted.     Zero chance to clear the bases and a huge double play risk.


That's a bit much.

I was exaggerating.  Since 2005  Ausmus has 47 extra base hits and 41 GIDP.   Sweet.

[guitarcec]

Jeeeeezus.

Morgan cannot buy a fucking break.

Though the pitch before looked a lot like a strike.  The one he got called out on was very questionable.

the one he got rung up on was more than questionable. it was absolutely not a strike. both low and away. i watched it 3 times in slo-mo! terrible call. could have sealed the win for the reds...

[Foghorn]

the one he got rung up on was more the questionable. it was absolutely not a strike. both low and away. i watched it 3 times in slo-mo! terrible call. could have sealed the win for the reds...

Dammit

[otterjb]

When did Ensberg lose his balls, or did he never have them to begin with?

[JimR]

Jeeeeezus.

Morgan cannot buy a fucking break.

Though the pitch before looked a lot like a strike.  The one he got called out on was very questionable.

no! it was too fucking close to take with two strikes. foul it off. it has not a damn thing to do with catching breaks.

[pravata]

I was exaggerating.  Since 2005  Ausmus has 47 extra base hits and 41 GIDP.   Sweet.

The atbat in question was on May 10, 2007. 

[JimR]

the one he got rung up on was more than questionable. it was absolutely not a strike. both low and away. i watched it 3 times in slo-mo! terrible call. could have sealed the win for the reds...

bullshit. it was a perfect pitcher's pitch, and you CANNOT let the umpire ring you up.

foul the fucking pitch off.

[Foghorn]

bullshit. it was a perfect pitcher's pitch, and you CANNOT let the umpire ring you up.

foul the fucking pitch off.

Coach is fired up. 

[ybbodeus]

There doesn't seem to be an ounce of "protect the plate" in him any longer. When he DOES swing, it's usually early in the count, just to "Edmonds" the pitcher into thinking he's up there to get a hit.

[Bench]

Coach is fired up. 

Ensberg is that frustrating. Too much talent to just be standing there.

[guitarcec]

bullshit. it was a perfect pitcher's pitch, and you CANNOT let the umpire ring you up.

foul the fucking pitch off.

definitely a pitcher's pitch, and while close, i don't think it was a strike. definitely too close to not foul off, though. you're right about that. but that's mo - he'd always rather take a pitch than spoil it. i don't quite understand his mindset at the plate. it's exactly what keeps him back from being a very good hitter.

[JimR]

Coach is fired up. 

i hate all the whiny ass "bad call" shit on here. hate it. it is Little League bullshit: "that's ok, Morgan. not your fault. it was the bad umpire's fault." the MF has the bases loaded and two out and MUST NOT get called out on strikes. foul the fucking close pitches off and hit a good one.

[Noe]

definitely a pitcher's pitch, and while close, i don't think it was a strike. definitely too close to not foul off, though. you're right about that. but that's mo - he'd always rather take a pitch than spoil it. i don't quite understand his mindset at the plate. it's exactly what keeps him back from being a very good hitter.

The umpire is the one who matters and you never let blue be the one to make the call. The count is 3-2, so you foul off the ball until you get what you can handle. Swing the bat, do not leave it on your shoulders like that.

[JimR]

definitely a pitcher's pitch, and while close, i don't think it was a strike. definitely too close to not foul off, though. you're right about that. but that's mo - he'd always rather take a pitch than spoil it. i don't quite understand his mindset at the plate. it's exactly what keeps him back from being a very good hitter.

this is not a fucking academic debate with the umpire on whether a close pitch is a strike. he wins EVERY damn time. foul it off with two strikes.

[Lefty]

no! it was too fucking close to take with two strikes. foul it off. it has not a damn thing to do with catching breaks.

The fucking "can't buy a break" was referring to the fucking foul grand fucking slam.

He watched TWO two-fucking-strike borderline pitches.  Gonna get rung up eventually.

[MusicMan]

this is not a fucking academic debate with the umpire on whether a close pitch is a strike. he wins EVERY damn time. foul it off with two strikes.

Although I have to say, I like Iceberg's chances with most umpires under Lincoln-Douglas debate rules.

[Amy]

i hate all the whiny ass "bad call" shit on here. hate it. it is Little League bullshit: "that's ok, Morgan. not your fault. it was the bad umpire's fault." the MF has the bases loaded and two out and MUST NOT get called out on strikes. foul the fucking close pitches off and hit a good one.

Mo frustrates me too, yeah it would've been better if he'd fouled it off, but I still think it was a shitty call.

[ybbodeus]

Although I have to say, I like Iceberg's chances with most umpires under Lincoln-Douglas debate rules.

Can we vote for Burr/Hamilton debate rules?

[Noe]

Although I have to say, I like Iceberg's chances with most umpires under Lincoln-Douglas debate rules.

Morgan the rail splitter?

[MusicMan]

Mo frustrates me too, yeah it would've been better if he'd fouled it off, but I still think it was a shitty call.

The shitty plate approach was infinitely more important than the "shitty call".

[Noe]

Mo frustrates me too, yeah it would've been better if he'd fouled it off, but I still think it was a shitty call.

No it's not, it was a shitty AB.  HUGE DIFFERENCE!

[MusicMan]

Morgan the rail splitter?

Are you kidding?  He'd have to swing.

[MRaup]

Mo frustrates me too, yeah it would've been better if he'd fouled it off, but I still think it was a shitty call.

You're wrong.

It wasn't a shitty call. It was a borderline call. And a good hitter fouls that pitch off.

[Noe]

Are you kidding?  He'd have to swing.

EGGSZACTLY!

[JimR]

Mo frustrates me too, yeah it would've been better if he'd fouled it off, but I still think it was a shitty call.

it was a strike.

[BudGirl]

I just now really looked at the Astros lineup.  Why would OP lead off instead of Burke?  Not questioning him starting, just wondering what the reason might be.

[Noe]

You're wrong.

It wasn't a shitty call. It was a borderline call. And a good hitter fouls that pitch off.

Baseball 101.  This MoBerg experiment as a OBP machine is frustrating to watch unravel.  I'd rather it stop myself.

[Amy]

it was a strike.

Evidently Carlos Lee didn't think so.  He just struck out on the same pitch.

[Noe]

I just now really looked at the Astros lineup.  Why would OP lead off instead of Burke?  Not questioning him starting, just wondering what the reason might be.

Does it matter?

[Foghorn]

I just now really looked at the Astros lineup.  Why would OP lead off instead of Burke?  Not questioning him starting, just wondering what the reason might be.

LHB vs RHP

[JimR]

I just now really looked at the Astros lineup.  Why would OP lead off instead of Burke?  Not questioning him starting, just wondering what the reason might be.

because Garner wrote his name down first.

does there have to be a reason for everything? how about Garner wanted Burke to bat lower in the lineup to try to drive in runs? that's as good as any.

[MusicMan]

Dear Phil:

You've stated on more than one occasion that Mike Lamb is a fine defensive 3b when he gets regular starts.

Please prove it.  Quickly.

[MRaup]

This team is amazing when it comes to taking 3rd strikes. Taking strike 3 is the single worst thing you can do at the plate. NOTHING good comes from striking out looking. SWING THE FUCKING BAT.

[MusicMan]

Evidently Carlos Lee didn't think so.  He just struck out on the same pitch.

Then Carlos was just as wrong as Iceberg.

The man in blue gets to make the call.

[Noe]

Evidently Carlos Lee didn't think so.  He just struck out on the same pitch.

I guarantee you that if the bases are loaded and the count is 3-2, Carlos Lee doesn't take that pitch.  You cannot understand a very simple thing here, and that is sad.

[JimR]

Dear Phil:

You've stated on more than one occasion that Mike Lamb is a fine defensive 3b when he gets regular starts.

Please prove it.  Quickly.

i believe that very much. if he played every day, he'd be fine. you cannot play there once a week or less and be good.

[homer]

Evidently Carlos Lee didn't think so.  He just struck out on the same pitch.

Do you not understand the point that the pitch is too close to take?

[BudGirl]

Does it matter?

I wondered.  You don't.  Whatever. 

[MRaup]

Evidently Carlos Lee didn't think so.  He just struck out on the same pitch.

Good God.

[Bench]

Oh good, the Astros lost again. Now we can start assigning blame! WWWEEEEEE!

[BudGirl]

because Garner wrote his name down first.

does there have to be a reason for everything? how about Garner wanted Burke to bat lower in the lineup to try to drive in runs? that's as good as any.

Is it that wrong for me to wonder?  Usually that seems to be a spot for Burke, but does it really bother you assholes when I ask something?

[Noe]

Do you not understand the point that the pitch is too close to take?

Thank you.

[JimR]

Evidently Carlos Lee didn't think so.  He just struck out on the same pitch.

which proves what to you? he should have fouled it off too. they are both out, and you're sitting there saying "boo, bad call."

[MRaup]

I wondered.  You don't.  Whatever. 

Could be a lot of things, BG.

Maybe the Burke as a leadoff hitter experiment is over?

Maybe they realized finally Burke isn't a top of the order guy?

Maybe OP drew the short straw?

[BUWebguy]

How close was Ensberg's bases-loaded drive to being fair?

[Noe]

I wondered.  You don't.  Whatever. 

Actually, I just asked you a question back because why would you want to know something like that?  It was a strange question and I thought maybe there was more to it.  Guess not.

[homer]

How close was Ensberg's bases-loaded drive to being fair?

30 feet. it was hooking.

[Foghorn]

Good God.

You know, for being down 7-0 after 3 innings, this game was winnable.

[MusicMan]

Maybe Garner didn't want 3 lefties in a row down in that part of the lineup?

[JimR]

Is it that wrong for me to wonder?  Usually that seems to be a spot for Burke, but does it really bother you assholes when I ask something?

how often has Burke hit leadoff? what is "usually?" doesn't it depend on who is playing today? i would say he wanted him to drive in runs.

[JimR]

You know, for being down 7-0 after 3 innings, this game was winnable.

at 5-7, i thought we would win.

[MRaup]

at 5-7, i thought we would win.

9-5 with the bases loaded looked pretty nice, too...

[Noe]

You know, for being down 7-0 after 3 innings, this game was winnable.

Frustrating to know that they actually had a chance against Harang but had to climb out of a hole to do it. 

[MusicMan]

9-5 with the bases loaded looked pretty nice, too...

You clearly forgot which two hitters were coming up.

Edit: Unfair swipe at Ausmus, who's been swinging pretty well.  But I would have rather seen just about anyone before Iceberg.

[Amy]

I guarantee you that if the bases are loaded and the count is 3-2, Carlos Lee doesn't take that pitch.  You cannot understand a very simple thing here, and that is sad.

I do understand what you're saying.  I'm not arguing with you.

[TenThirty]

When did Ensberg lose his balls, or did he never have them to begin with?

My theory is the 2005 WS.  7 K's, 1 BB.   thought about it all off-season and came back the way he has been ever since (more or less).

[JimR]

I do understand what you're saying.  I'm not arguing with you.

you have not demonstrated any understanding of "too close to take." none.

[Foghorn]

9-5 with the bases loaded looked pretty nice, too...

started off with Loretta not making the play on Freel's liner and things kept getting worse.  Phillips little dribbler.  Luke playing an out (from the descriptions) into a 3B.  Lee getting thrown out at 3B.  bases loaded and 1 out and not scoring.


Dammit!!  Come on home boys, let's get ready to BBQ some snake!!!!

[JimR]

You clearly forgot which two hitters were coming up.

Edit: Unfair swipe at Ausmus, who's been swinging pretty well.  But I would have rather seen just about anyone before Iceberg.

agree re Ausmus. Mark and i were having that discussion before he came up. his AB was a shitty swing at a bad first pitch, though.

[Noe]

You clearly forgot which two hitters were coming up.

We had a conversation in the TZ about MoBerg being a late inning, pinch hitter with power from the right side kind of guy if Loretta or Lamb were to get more starts.  Obviously, it is Lane's job right now.  But today, I would've rather had Lane hit instead of either Ausmus or MoBerg.  I'm not saying that as an after thought.  I got out of my meeting in time to hear MoBerg's AB.  I was perplexed why they were not saying "Jason Lane" instead.

It seems that it's either start or nothing with MoBerg and that is sad because it means he has to basically start and also hit second to be semi-effective.  That is entirely sad actually.  Damn waste of a ballplayer.

[Noe]

I do understand what you're saying.  I'm not arguing with you.

I'm not arguing either, I am just preplexed why you think it is about the call instead of the really horrid approach by Mo.  No fucking way it is anything other than Mo being really brain dead on that one.  It's baseball 101 that he should fucking know by now.  "too close to take" - he knows better.   Most especially on a 3-2 count, two out and especially bases loaded... heck it's almost automatic that you're not letting anything close get near the mitt of the catcher.

[JimR]

We had a conversation in the TZ about MoBerg being a late inning, pinch hitter with power from the right side kind of guy if Loretta or Lamb were to get more starts.  Obviously, it is Lane's job right now.  But today, I would've rather had Lane hit instead of either Ausmus or MoBerg.  I'm not saying that as an after thought.  I got out of my meeting in time to hear MoBerg's AB.  I was perplexed why they were not saying "Jason Lane" instead.

It seems that it's either start or nothing with MoBerg and that is sad because it means he has to basically start and also hit second to be semi-effective.  That is entirely sad actually.  Damn waste of a ballplayer.

and what makes me sick(?), angry (?), frustrated (?) is that Mo has shown everyone that he can hit 25-30 HRs in MLB. why has he regressed like this?

[MusicMan]

Because he thinks he's become Ted Williams and Tony Gwynn rolled into one when it comes to strike zone judgement.

[Noe]

and what makes me sick(?), angry (?), frustrated (?) is that Mo has shown everyone that he can hit 25-30 HRs in MLB. why has he regressed like this?

EGGSZACTLY coach.  That is what is the most confusing about the pronouncements of good things that he is a #2.  Doesn't anyone know that this guy can actually produce a really nice power game and thus help as a middle of the lineup hitter?  It's not a fluke, but damnit, someone is letting MoBerg just bury himself into a useless role for himself.  The fact that he may have to hit late in a game that Lamb will start is scary to think about for the exact situation that presented itself today.

It is the little things like this that frustrate me most.  Who thought it was a good idea to let Mo be a #2?  I'd like to meet that person and ask him if he/she/it was really freaking serious about that move.

[Amy]

I'm not arguing either, I am just preplexed why you think it is about the call instead of the really horrid approach by Mo.  No fucking way it is anything other than Mo being really brain dead on that one.  It's baseball 101 that he should fucking know by now.  "too close to take" - he knows better.   Most especially on a 3-2 count, two out and especially bases loaded... heck it's almost automatic that you're not letting anything close get near the mitt of the catcher.

I was treating Mo's approach at the plate and the call by the umpire as two separate issues.  I agree Mo should not give the ump the chance to ring him up there.  That doesn't mean that pitch was a strike.

[Foghorn]

I was treating Mo's approach at the plate and the call by the umpire as two separate issues.  I agree Mo should not give the ump the chance to ring him up there.  That doesn't mean that pitch was a strike.

let it go.  you will get dog piled if you don't

[JimR]

I was treating Mo's approach at the plate and the call by the umpire as two separate issues.  I agree Mo should not give the ump the chance to ring him up there.  That doesn't mean that pitch was a strike.

it wasn't a strike? so, why did everyone leave the field?

you are clueless, Amy. totally clueless.

[Lurch]

My theory is the 2005 WS.  7 K's, 1 BB.   thought about it all off-season and came back the way he has been ever since (more or less).

"I'm fine. I'm healthy. I feel Happy." <--> "Ok, I was lying."  Somewhere in there.

[JimR]

let it go.  you will get dog piled if you don't

and you should be first or second on the pile.

[Noe]

I was treating Mo's approach at the plate and the call by the umpire as two separate issues.  I agree Mo should not give the ump the chance to ring him up there.  That doesn't mean that pitch was a strike.

You don't even have to mention it whether it was a strike or not unless it's a ball headed for the backstop and the umpire blindly called a strike.  If Mo can reach it, it's a strike because he cannot, should not, shall not, fucking let that pitch come anywhere near the mitt.  It is a non-issue if Mo is doing the simplest of things in baseball... spoil the damn pitch.  Do you NOT understand that it is not even a teeny, tiny blip on the radar as to what went wrong in that AB?  Not even worth mentioning the umpire nor the location of the pitch actually.

To those who have played the game, your decision to focus on the umpire's call is just way out there.  Mo has to do his job and we're talking about a professional baseball player too.

[BudGirl]

I was treating Mo's approach at the plate and the call by the umpire as two separate issues.  I agree Mo should not give the ump the chance to ring him up there.  That doesn't mean that pitch was a strike.

It doesn't matter.  The pitch was too close to take.  Never assume the ump is going to call a ball on a close pitch.

[MRaup]

It doesn't matter.  The pitch was too close to take.  Never assume the ump is going to call a ball on a close pitch.

Bravo!!!

BG definately gets it!

[Noe]

It doesn't matter.  The pitch was too close to take.  Never assume the ump is going to call a ball on a close pitch.

EGGSZACTLY.  Fuck whether it was an inch or two low or outside or off the plate.  Fucking do your job as a hitter.  Add to the equation that these were the surrounding factors:

3-2 count (what could he fucking be thinking with a count like that?  Look for the walk!!!!  OMG!!!!)
Bases loaded, you're down by four.
Two outs.
David Weathers has to come after you but he's not going to lay one down broadway for you, be ready to spoil it until he makes a mistake.

All are factors why Mo's decision to take a fucking borderline pitch all the more fucking frustrating to hear.  WTF?!?!?  I mean seriously here folks.

[MusicMan]

Just found this tidbit on ESPN's stats:

For 2006-2007, Ensberg with two out, runners in scoring position - has as many walks as RBI.

He's completely abandoned the concept of being a run producer.

[JimR]

It doesn't matter.  The pitch was too close to take.  Never assume the ump is going to call a ball on a close pitch.

OUTSTANDING!

look here, Amy. BG gets it and others do too. you and Mo do not.

[Noe]

Just found this tidbit on ESPN's stats:

For 2006-2007, Ensberg with two out, runners in scoring position - has as many walks as RBI.

He's completely abandoned the concept of being a run producer.

Yes, and someone should get their arse kicked for letting him do so.  Seriously.  Now I know how he can leave 10 men stranded in a game all by himself.

[BudGirl]

Yes, and someone should get their arse kicked for letting him do so.  Seriously.

I think Morgan is the one doing the letting. 

[WulawHorn]

It doesn't matter.  The pitch was too close to take.  Never assume the ump is going to call a ball on a close pitch.

Also- from what everyone is saying he got spared getting wrung up on the 2-2 count.  An umpire rarely lets you get away with that on 2 pitches in a row- if it looks like he might have missed one.

I've heard JD say it 100 times after that type of situation- you better be swinging next time- you won't get that call twice in a row.

[MusicMan]

Another relevant piece of data:

2007 -

Hitting #2: .157 .259 .294 in 51 AB
Hitting #5: .286 .390 .400 in 35 AB

[JimR]

Another relevant piece of data:

2007 -

Hitting #2: .157 .259 .294 in 51 AB
Hitting #5: .286 .390 .400 in 35 AB

nice info.

[Noe]

Another relevant piece of data:

2007 -

Hitting #2: .157 .259 .294 in 51 AB
Hitting #5: .286 .390 .400 in 35 AB

It is a bad idea all around.  He's changed his whole approach to hitting and it's not going to be pretty.

[Noe]

I've heard JD say it 100 times after that type of situation- you better be swinging next time- you won't get that call twice in a row.

I wouldn't surprise me if he said the same thing today on that AB.

[Foghorn]

and you should be first or second on the pile.

I think Amy is thinking of her reply without actually reading what others are saying.  I don't think she is used to a message board where btiching about the ump call's is frowned upon when the batter has his head up his ass.

[JimR]

I think Amy is thinking of her reply without actually reading what others are saying.  I don't think she is used to a message board where btiching about the ump call's is frowned upon when the batter has his head up his ass.

your being nice is not very becoming.

[Foghorn]

your being nice is not very becoming.

she's (relatively) new and (allegedly) a female.  Plus she really seems unclear as to why she's been jumped over here.  She was trying to defend her position that the call was poor when she should have realized NOBODY here gives a shit if the call was poor.  The call is what it is.  What people here are upset with is ICEBERG's approach.

Its the difference between this site and others.  Other sites will bitch and complain about the call.  We bitch and complain about ICEBERG.

By the way, my all time favorite poster here or the old BFT was Breedlove.  But a pissed off Coach Raup comes in a strong second.

[pravata]

she's (relatively) new and (allegedly) a female.  Plus she really seems unclear as to why she's been jumped over here.  She was trying to defend her position that the call was poor when she should have realized NOBODY here gives a shit if the call was poor.  The call is what it is.  What people here are upset with is ICEBERG's approach.

Its the difference between this site and others.  Other sites will bitch and complain about the call.  We bitch and complain about ICEBERG.

By the way, my all time favorite poster here or the old BFT was Breedlove.  But a pissed off Coach Raup comes in a strong second.

Breedlove getting a life is a tough blow for Astros talk.

[Noe]

Breedlove getting a life is a tough blow for Astros talk.

Plus the loss of the coolest name this side of Andyzipp.

[Foghorn]

Plus the loss of the coolest name this side of Andyzipp.

I alway's like ROger Cedeno's Spleen.

By the way, whatever happened to that Zipp character?  He's mellowed with age at a faster rate than most wines.

[MusicMan]

I alway's like ROger Cedeno's Spleen.

His HOF quip of "Can't sleep!  Spack will eat me!" is one of the funniest things I can recall.

[JimR]

she's (relatively) new and (allegedly) a female.  Plus she really seems unclear as to why she's been jumped over here.  She was trying to defend her position that the call was poor when she should have realized NOBODY here gives a shit if the call was poor.  The call is what it is.  What people here are upset with is ICEBERG's approach.

Its the difference between this site and others.  Other sites will bitch and complain about the call.  We bitch and complain about ICEBERG.

By the way, my all time favorite poster here or the old BFT was Breedlove.  But a pissed off Coach Raup comes in a strong second.

this has been going on for weeks with her: "i will not be intimidated." i do not want her to be intimidated. i just want her to stop being stubbornly stupid...and gender has nothing to do with anything.

[Foghorn]

His HOF quip of "Can't sleep!  Spack will eat me!" is one of the funniest things I can recall.

I think he also had the Randy Johnson no-hitter weather advisory take.

[Outlawscotty]

From the Gamezone two games ago:

Quote from: T. J. on May 08, 2007, 21:14:35
Strike 3 was low.  I'll take it.

Hudson Hawk says:
That's been a strike all night though.  Just ask Morgan Ensberg.

Remember the pitch to Conine to end the game?  He sucked too.  Works both ways.  It is PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL.