Astros @ Athletics July 19, 2016

[Mr. Happy]

Your lineups for tonight's late show:

Astros

RFGeorge Springer (R)
1BMarwin Gonzalez (S)
2BJose Altuve (R)
SSCarlos Correa (R)
3BLuis Valbuena (L)
DHCarlos Gomez (R)
LFColby Rasmus (L)
CEvan Gattis (R)
CFJake Marisnick (R)

HOU: Dallas Keuchel (L)  (6-9, 4.80)

Athletics

CF Coco Crisp (S)
2B Jed Lowrie (S)
1B Danny Valencia (R)
LF Khris Davis (R)
SS Marcus Semien (R)
DH Billy Butler (R)
RF Jake Smolinski (R)
3B Ryon Healy (R)
C Matt McBride (R)

OAK: Dillon Overton (L)  (1-1, 11.42)

[MrKnuckleball]

Marisnick? Really? That guy is horrible offensively. He looks lost at the plate. Love my Stros but it's the truth.

[Mr. Happy]

Marisnick? Really? That guy is horrible offensively. He looks lost at the plate. Love my Stros but it's the truth.

Read more and post less. Marisnick is hitting .350 in the last 14 days and .267 over his last 28 days. He's a very good fourth/fifth outfielder. If you can't see that, then we've got nothing to discuss.

[MrKnuckleball]

Read more and post less. Marisnick is hitting .350 in the last 14 days and .267 over his last 28 days. He's a very good fourth/fifth outfielder. If you can't see that, then we've got nothing to discuss.

I don't care what he is hitting in the past 14 or 28 days. His average for the year is .200. That is not good.

[Mr. Happy]

I don't care what he is hitting in the past 14 or 28 days. His average for the year is .200. That is not good.

One of the hardest things to do in baseball is to play sporadically like Marisnick plays. No, .200 is not good, but there are several other Astros who are near that mark despite getting regular playing time. I take it that you have a problem with those players too?

[MrKnuckleball]

One of the hardest things to do in baseball is to play sporadically like Marisnick plays. No, .200 is not good, but there are several other Astros who are near that mark despite getting regular playing time. I take it that you have a problem with those players too?

Yeah for sure. .200 is not acceptable if you are in the majors and getting regular playing time. You wouldn't agree?

[Mr. Happy]

Yeah for sure. .200 is not acceptable if you are in the majors and getting regular playing time. You wouldn't agree?

I don't disagree. Gattis, Castro and Gomez would sit more if I ran the show. My point about Marisnick is that he plays great defense and runs the bases well, making him an ideal extra outfielder. Even harder than playing only periodically is pinch hitting, coming off of the bench cold.

[MrKnuckleball]

I don't disagree. Gattis, Castro and Gomez would sit more if I ran the show. My point about Marisnick is that he plays great defense and runs the bases well, making him an ideal extra outfielder. Even harder than playing only periodically is pinch hitting, coming off of the bench cold.

Well last year Marisnick played in 133 games and still only batted .236. So he wasn't just an extra outfielder last year. But yes he can run the bases and play defense well. I just think we can get someone else or have someone in the minors to play good defense and run well that will hit a little better than that.

[Mr. Happy]

Well last year Marisnick played in 133 games and still only batted .236. So he wasn't just an extra outfielder last year. But yes he can run the bases and play defense well. I just think we can get someone else or have someone in the minors to play good defense and run well that will hit a little better than that.

That was last year. Marisnick's light production in CF prompted in part the Gomez trade, which I still don't like.

[MrKnuckleball]

That was last year. Marisnick's light production in CF prompted in part the Gomez trade, which I still don't like.

I'm not a huge fan of the Gomez deal either but it is what it is I guess. I don't see them resigning Gomez or Rasmus if they keep their same pace.

[doyce7]

There are players on this team who need to be replaced, marisnick is not one of them. Yeah he isn't a great hitter but he plays great defense and runs well. He plays his role well, that's all you need. You can't play the same players every single day. Every team needs a marisnick to put in off the bench and spot start.

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[Mr. Happy]

There are players on this team who need to be replaced, marisnick is not one of them. Yeah he isn't a great hitter but he plays great defense and runs well. He plays his role well, that's all you need. You can't play the same players every single day. Every team needs a marisnick to put in off the bench and spot start.

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Thanks for making an excellent point. I really like Marisnick on this team.

[homer]

I don't care what he is hitting in the past 14 or 28 days. His average for the year is .200. That is not good.

Since Happy opened this can, and since jimr isn't here to drive it in the ditch yet, let's try to be constructive. Are you saying Marisnick shouldn't start or shouldn't be on the team? If he doesn't start tonight, who would you put in his place? Don't forget there is a south paw on the mound.

[JimR]

Since Happy opened this can, and since jimr isn't here to drive it in the ditch yet, let's try to be constructive. Are you saying Marisnick shouldn't start or shouldn't be on the team? If he doesn't start tonight, who would you put in his place? Don't forget there is a south paw on the mound.

Drive what in the ditch?

ETA hitting .350 in the last 14 days and .267 in the last 28 is way more important than a .200 season average. Marisnick is a great 4th OFer.

What is Gattis hitting? Rasmus? Lots of automatic outs, and Gomez is the whipping boy.

[MrKnuckleball]

Since Happy opened this can, and since jimr isn't here to drive it in the ditch yet, let's try to be constructive. Are you saying Marisnick shouldn't start or shouldn't be on the team? If he doesn't start tonight, who would you put in his place? Don't forget there is a south paw on the mound.

Shouldn't be on the team. Gomez should start in center.

[JimR]

Shouldn't be on the team. Gomez should start in center.

Out of your mind.

Great 4th OFer. Better CFer than Gomez.

[MrKnuckleball]

Out of your mind.

Great 4th OFer. Better CFer than Gomez.

Better fielder yes I agree. Offensively no way.

[homer]

Shouldn't be on the team. Gomez should start in center.

Gomez is also hitting a whopping 12 points higher. And his last 28 days has been: .195/.262/.351. But his preening is far superior.

Who would become the 4th outfielder? Who would be the DH?

[JimR]

Better fielder yes I agree. Offensively no way.

CF is a defensive position. Hitting is separate.

Go back and read Happy's first sentence. That is a mantra here.

Marisnick is a valuable member of this team for his defense and his speed, and he is hitting at the moment. He is a better CFer than Gomez. 25 men on a team, not just 9.

[Tom Servo]

CF is a defensive position. Hitting is separate.

Even more so when half your games are in Minute Maid. 

[austro]

Shouldn't be on the team. Gomez should start in center.

Gomez may very well be a little banged up after bouncing into the wall and sliding hand-first into 1st base last night. And "shouldn't be on the team" is a hard position to defend: he plays a couple of valuable roles and plays them very well.

[Tom Servo]

Gomez may very well be a little banged up after bouncing into the wall and sliding hand-first into 1st base last night. And "shouldn't be on the team" is a hard position to defend: he plays a couple of valuable roles and plays them very well.

And that hair...

[MrKnuckleball]

CF is a defensive position. Hitting is separate.

Go back and read Happy's first sentence. That is a mantra here.

Marisnick is a valuable member of this team for his defense and his speed, and he is hitting at the moment. He is a better CFer than Gomez. 25 men on a team, not just 9.

I understand it's a defensive position but you still can't look like a chump at the plate. At the end of the day I guess we don't have a quality all around center fielder.

[JimR]

I understand it's a defensive position but you still can't look like a chump at the plate. At the end of the day I guess we don't have a quality all around center fielder.

Four quality CFers

Hitting is separate, and Marisnick is no chump at the plate.

[MrKnuckleball]

Four quality CFers

Hitting is separate, and Marisnick is no chump at the plate.

So what do you have to hit to be a chump? .150? Lol.

[JimR]

So what do you have to hit to be a chump? .150? Lol.

What is Gattis hitting? Rasmus? Gomez? Worth? Reed?
Are they "chumps?"

My guess is you are a kid who likes the team but does not watch much. Numbers mean more to you than what you see.

There are lots of knowledgeable fans here. You can learn a lot if you read and listen.

No more "lol."

[doyce7]

Shouldn't be on the team. Gomez should start in center.

If Jake is such a bad hitter that he shouldn't be on the team then how the fuck should Gomez start? Gomez has been just as bad as hitter this year. If you cut Jake, who takes his place?

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[MrKnuckleball]

What is Gattis hitting? Rasmus? Gomez? Worth? Reed?
Are they "chumps?"

My guess is you are a kid who likes the team but does not watch much. Numbers mean more to you than what you see.

There are lots of knowledgeable fans here. You can learn a lot if you read and listen.

No more "lol."

Exactly my point. We have a few too many people hitting in the low 200s that start consistently. Don't tell me what I am and what I do because you don't know.

[MrKnuckleball]

If Jake is such a bad hitter that he shouldn't be on the team then how the fuck should Gomez start? Gomez has been just as bad as hitter this year. If you cut Jake, who takes his place?

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Like I stated earlier we don't have a quality all around center fielder.

[JimR]

Like I stated earlier we don't have a quality all around center fielder.

Four quality all around CFers. Defensive position.

Talk about hitters separately. Does not matter what position they play.

A kid, for sure.

[MrKnuckleball]

Four quality all around CFers. Defensive position.

Talk about hitters separately. Does not matter what position they play.

A kid, for sure.

Still have to be able to hit, bud. Lol..

[MrKnuckleball]

Four quality all around CFers. Defensive position.

Talk about hitters separately. Does not matter what position they play.

A kid, for sure.

You still never answered my question. What do you have to hit to be considered a chump? Or not a very good hitter?

[doyce7]

You still never answered my question. What do you have to hit to be considered a chump? Or not a very good hitter?

And you never answered the question. Who replaces Jake?

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[MrKnuckleball]

And you never answered the question. Who replaces Jake?

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Post #15 since you are illiterate.

[juliogotay]

I hope that the team has enough good hitters in the lineup next year that Marisnick can play CF every day. He is fun to watch out there.

[doyce7]

Post #15 since you are illiterate.

You said Gomez should start. That's not what I asked. Gomez is already starting most games. Whose illiterate? I'll ask more specifically this time so you'll understand.  Who replaces Jake as the 4th outfielder?

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[MrKnuckleball]

You said Gomez should start. That's not what I asked. Gomez is already starting most games. Whose illiterate? I'll ask more specifically this time so you'll understand.  Who replaces Jake as the 4th outfielder?

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At this point we don't have someone. Unless you throw Marwin out there which I doubt they would do.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Still have to be able to hit, bud. Lol..

Okay, we know what you think. Regardless of who agrees or disagrees, there's no need to reiterate or expound further.  If you insist on belaboring your point perhaps you should send an e-mail to Hinch, the guy who can actually do something about it, and complain to him.

[doyce7]

At this point we don't have someone. Unless you throw Marwin out there which I doubt they would do.

Are we gonna play with a 24 man roster the rest of the season? If Jake is so bad then surely know someone who is better.

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[MrKnuckleball]

Are we gonna play with a 24 man roster the rest of the season? If Jake is so bad then surely know someone who is better.

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Yup a position we need to improve at, among other things.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

A.J. : Jeff, I got some guy on the internet who seems to really know a lot about baseball and he says we should dump Jake.
Jeff Luhnow: The internet is full of loonies A.J. just disregard him.
A.J. : Well he seems pretty sure of himself.
Jeff: Oh, well in that case, what the hell.

[NeilT]

Knuckleballers have a reputation for peculiarity.

[MusicMan]

DONT DIVE INTO FIRST


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[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Jeff: Hey A.J. I dumped Jake, who did the guy say we should replace him with.
A.J.: Somebody.

[Tom Servo]

DONT DIVE INTO FIRST


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For all of you who know better than I do, is this an absolute fact?  I always hear that, but I never know why it's stated with such certainty.  Especially since people keep doing it all the time. 

[juliogotay]

Jeff: Hey A.J. I dumped Jake, who did the guy say we should replace him with.
A.J.: Somebody.

I heard Fiers was taking flyballs out there today. He said "hell anybody can hit .200". 

[MrKnuckleball]

You guys act like .200 is going to win you a Silver Slugger. Hahaha.

[Tom Servo]

This thread is a train wreck.

[juliogotay]

You guys act like .200 is going to win you a Silver Slugger. Hahaha.

You act like BA is the only thing that matters in this game.

[MrKnuckleball]

You act like BA is the only thing that matters in this game.

Not the only thing that matters but it is kind of a big deal.

[juliogotay]

Not the only thing that matters but it is kind of a big deal.

Less and less all of the time.

[hostros7]

For all of you who know better than I do, is this an absolute fact?  I always hear that, but I never know why it's stated with such certainty.  Especially since people keep doing it all the time.

Unless the 1B is pulled off the bag by the throw and will only have a chance to get the runner by applying a sweep tag instead of the force, the headfirst slide rarely makes sense, particularly when factoring in the chance for injury.

[chuck]

You act like BA is the only thing that matters in this game.

What's funny is that he's making a statistics based argument using the very metric stat geeks find most contemptible and meaningless.

[MusicMan]

A.J. : Jeff, I got some guy on the internet who seems to really know a lot about baseball and he says we should dump Jake.
Jeff Luhnow: The internet is full of loonies A.J. just disregard him.
A.J. : Well he seems pretty sure of himself.
Jeff: Oh, well in that case, what the hell.

I got a guy here, y'all
Named Mr. Knuckleball
And this guy just wants to tell us all:
"Dump Jake"
"Dump Jake"
This guy says we must dump Jake.

[Tom Servo]

Unless the 1B is pulled off the bag by the throw and will only have a chance to get the runner by applying a sweep tag instead of the force, the headfirst slide rarely makes sense, particularly when factoring in the chance for injury.

Thanks.  Makes sense.

But what if the 1B has a good batting average?

[MusicMan]

Unless the 1B is pulled off the bag by the throw and will only have a chance to get the runner by applying a sweep tag instead of the force, the headfirst slide rarely makes sense, particularly when factoring in the chance for injury.

Correct.  It doesn't get you there faster.

[juliogotay]

What's funny is that he's making a statistics based argument using the very metric stat geeks find most contemptible and meaningless.

I know but I didn't want to introduce that into this. We'll never get out here.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

It's faster to run full speed over the bag at firstbase. It is a bit quicker to get into a diving slide than a leg first slide. Another reason to dive head first is to avoid a leg injury but I've seen guys fuck up their fingers and hands diving.

[MusicMan]

Thanks.  Makes sense.

But what if the 1B has a good batting average?

Then you move him to CF, duh.

[MusicMan]

You guys act like .200 is going to win you a Silver Slugger. Hahaha.

A brief summary of all backup outfielders to ever win the Silver Slugger:

[hostros7]

You act like BA is the only thing that matters in this game.

He suggested that Marwin should play center over one of the 2-3 outstanding defensive CF options the Astros have on the roster.

[MikeyBoy]

Correct.  It doesn't get you there faster.

But it looks hustle-ish.

[MusicMan]

He suggested that Marwin should play center over one of the 2-3 outstanding defensive CF options the Astros have on the roster.

We need a higher BA than Marwin in CF.  Put Altuve there.

[MrKnuckleball]

A brief summary of all backup outfielders to ever win the Silver Slugger:

A brief summary of all backup outfielders hitting .200 to not be considered chumps:

[juliogotay]

He suggested that Marwin should play center over one of the 2-3 outstanding defensive CF options the Astros have on the roster.

I know. That was all I needed to know.

[MusicMan]

A brief summary of all backup outfielders hitting .200 to not be considered chumps:

Do you understand the concept of a defensive specialist?

Check that.

Do you understand the concept of defense?

[MrKnuckleball]

Nice K. I'm done arguing. Enjoy the game fellas.

[WVastro]

What in Baio's name is going on here tonight?

[Tom Servo]

Do you understand the concept of a defensive specialist?

Check that.

Do you understand the concept of defense?

Check that. 

Do you understand the concept of baseball?

[MusicMan]

What in Baio's name is going on here tonight?

A Trump delegate got lost on his way to Cleveland.

[juliogotay]

Fucking Marisnick.

[Tom Servo]

Nice K. I'm done arguing. Enjoy the game fellas.

So you're happy an Astros player struck out to (erroneously) prove your point?  Dick

[MusicMan]

Ooooh, conspiracy theory time!

In a radio interview with KILT (610 AM), Bregman said he envisioned facing a pitcher wearing "red and gray" in his first big league at-bat. The Astros face the Angels, who wear red and gray, this weekend at home.

[austro]

Ooooh, conspiracy theory time!

Fuck, I thought you were going to give some Alex Jones scoop from Cleveland.

[WVastro]

Fucking Marisnick.

He just cost the Astros the game with his shitty batting average. Backup defensive center fielders should never lower their batting average in the 2nd inning. Any decent team has someone hidden away on the bench that would start on every other ML club.

[NeilT]

Marwin makes that play with a better BA.

[MikeyBoy]

Fucking Marisnick.

I think Mrknuckledragger thinks he mic dropped.

[MrKnuckleball]

So you're happy an Astros player struck out to (erroneously) prove your point?  Dick

Haha. Call me whatever you want, it doesn't hurt me bud.

[austro]

Martin makes that play with a better BA.

Damn you, I was trying to figure out how to set that up.

[WVastro]

Marwin makes that play with a better BA.

Beat me to it.

[NeilT]

Haha. Call me whatever you want, it doesn't hurt me bud.

C'mon, you're actually HH, right?  Just here to put us all on?  Nobody is really that goofy.

[juliogotay]

Beat me to it.

That's why Marwin should be in CF.

[hostros7]

Colby! Nailed him.


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[Tom Servo]

Nice throw by Colby!

[MrKnuckleball]

C'mon, you're actually HH, right?  Just here to put us all on?  Nobody is really that goofy.

No but apparently I'm a Dick.

[WVastro]

.040 higher batting average enabled Rasmus to make that beautiful throw.

[MusicMan]

Rasmus raises his batting average by gunning down the runner to end the inning.


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[NeilT]

No but apparently I'm a Dick.

That's what happens when you're the smartest guy in the room.

[MrKnuckleball]

That's what happens when you're the smartest guy in the room.

Cool

[juliogotay]

Rasmus raises his batting average by gunning down the runner to end the inning.


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Rasmus shouldn't even be out there with his BA

[WVastro]

Springer is hitting .208 over the last month. Chump, put Marwin in both center and right at the same time.

[MusicMan]

Altuve it hitting .350, ergo, he is the best defender in baseball.


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[MusicMan]

Springer is hitting .208 over the last month. Chump, put Marwin in both center and right at the same time.

#BugsBunny4Astros


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[austro]

Springer is hitting .208 over the last month. Chump, put Marwin in both center and right at the same time.

All joking aside, we really need him to get going again.

[NeilT]

So you come in at .350 and raise your average. 

[austro]

Correa makes me grind my teeth.

[juliogotay]

Correa makes me grind my teeth.

Marisnick makes me gnaw my arm off.

[austro]

Marisnick makes me gnaw my arm off.

Coyote ugly.

[Tom Servo]

Luis!  Clutch!  Way to pick 'em up

[MusicMan]

Valbuena with the rarely seen "bat flip on a single". 1-0.


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[MrKnuckleball]

Solid swing by Valbuena.

[hostros7]

Tip of the cap to Overton on that defensive play.


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[Ebby Calvin]

Valbuena with the rarely seen "bat flip on a single". 1-0.


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Needs to cut that shit out.

[NeilT]

I like squirrelly left-handers.  I'm thinking Overton may be as squirrelly as left-handers get.

[Tom Servo]

Tip of the cap to Overton on that defensive play.


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That WAS nice.

[MusicMan]

Solid swing by Valbuena.

He used to be a chump.


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[austro]

Tip of the cap to Overton on that defensive play.

Yeah, there were a lot of ways that could have gone wrong.

[Tom Servo]

Needs to cut that shit out.

Getting hits?  I'd rather see the bat flip single than a proper gentleman's strikeout.

[juliogotay]

So you come in at .350 and raise your average.

I don't remember Altuve ever being the #1 prospect in the Astros MiL system while he was coming up. Back when the system was pretty bare.

[homer]

That WAS nice.

He doesn't even have a batting average.

[MrKnuckleball]

He used to be a chump.


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Cool story bud.

[NeilT]

I don't remember Altuve ever being the #1 prospect in the Astros MiL system while he was coming up. Back when the system was pretty bare.

What I remember is the sense that we're so bad we've got no choice but to bring this guy up.  Thank Baio we were that bad.

[Ebby Calvin]

Getting hits?  I'd rather see the bat flip single than a proper gentleman's strikeout.

Not at all.  I've enjoyed his resurgence and I'm generally fine with walk-off bat flips.  But 3rd inning 2-out RBI singles - while important and impressive - don't qualify (for me). 

[BudGirl]

It's faster to run full speed over the bag at firstbase. It is a bit quicker to get into a diving slide than a leg first slide. Another reason to dive head first is to avoid a leg injury but I've seen guys fuck up their fingers and hands diving.

How did Carlos Hernandez get injured?  Head first or leg first slide?

[hostros7]

What I remember is the sense that we're so bad we've got no choice but to bring this guy up.  Thank Baio we were that bad.

That sounds right. JD was given the same chance around the same time, although he was more well thought of as far as top prospect lists go. The cream of the crop was considered to be Lyles, Singleton, Villar, Cosart, DDS, IIRC.

[MusicMan]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't the tag ALWAYS required with two outs?

In other words, for the millionth time, STFU Ash.


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[MusicMan]

How did Carlos Hernandez get injured?  Head first or leg first slide?

Head first. Into 2b.


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[NeilT]

How did Carlos Hernandez get injured?  Head first or leg first slide?

I think shoulder first.

[Tom Servo]

Head first. Into 2b.


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If we only had the DH then.

[NeilT]

That sounds right. JD was given the same chance around the same time, although he was more well thought of as far as top prospect lists go. The cream of the crop was considered to be Lyles, Singleton, Villar, Cosart, DDS, IIRC.

On a better team, I could easily see Altuve bouncing around on trades as the minor league throw in for years, and never really getting to play every day.

[austro]

Wow, nice effort by Davis.

[Tom Servo]

On a better team, I could easily see Altuve bouncing around on trades as the minor league throw in for years, and never really getting to play every day.

Makes you wonder how many of those guys are bouncing around out there right now.

[MusicMan]

Marisnick though Mr. Knuckleball was sitting in those seats.


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[BudGirl]

I do wish Marisnick would get more hits too.  But, it is selfish on my part because I like looking at him.

[MrKnuckleball]

Marisnick though Mr. Knuckleball was sitting in those seats.


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English.

[hostros7]

Marisnick though Mr. Knuckleball was sitting in those seats.


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He probably just mistakenly grabbed the astroglide instead of the pine tar from his locker (again).

[NeilT]

I do wish Marisnick would get more hits too.  But, it is selfish on my part because I like looking at him.

You have a special place for guys who can't hit, don't you?

[homer]

English.

It's times like this I remember I need to ask Waldo what happened to the ignore button.

[juliogotay]

If Beane had any $$ to spend Oakland might be pretty good.

[BudGirl]

You have a special place for guys who can't hit, don't you?

They are always good defenders!

[Tom Servo]

Springer Dinger!

[BudGirl]

All joking aside, we really need him to get going again.

asked and received

[NeilT]

asked and received

You did that, didn't you.

[austro]

Hey, Ashby, while people are apologizing for inappropriate behavior last night, why don't you get in on the action?

[BudGirl]

i'm responsible for all the good things that happen to the Astros.

[NeilT]

Hey, Ashby, while people are apologizing for inappropriate behavior last night, why don't you get in on the action?

Are you watching the RNC?

[austro]

I find it insulting that people mention Ian Desmond in the same MVP conversation with Altuve.

[BudGirl]

Are you watching the RNC?

I watched a little bit, but it truly scares the shit out of me.  I am quite sincere about being scared.

[austro]

Are you watching the RNC?

There is not enough liquor in the world to get me through that.

[NeilT]

I find it insulting that people mention Ian Desmond in the same MVP conversation with Altuve.

You must be watching the RNC.

[austro]

I watched a little bit, but it truly scares the shit out of me.  I am quite sincere about being scared.

People all over the country are already pissed at Texas. I wonder what they're going to think after they get a face full of Dan Patrick.

[NeilT]

People all over the country are already pissed at Texas. I wonder what they're going to think after they get a face full of Dan Patrick.

Is Dan Patrick a speaker?  He's presidential material.

[NeilT]

Is Dan Patrick a speaker?  He's presidential material.

Of course his BA sucks.

[NeilT]

Gattis is a far better catcher than we could have expected.

[MRaup]

Holy Jesus, what the fuck did I miss?!

[MrKnuckleball]

Keuchel pitching like he did last year. Nice to see.

[Tom Servo]

Gattis is a far better catcher than we could have expected.

Yeah, and his batting average isn't even that good.

[MRaup]

Keuchel pitching like he did last year. Nice to see.

You stupid, jinxing cocksucker. I swear to Baio, if Dallas melts down in the next inning I will come to your house and beat you to death with an Evan Gattis gnome.

[NeilT]

You stupid, jinxing cocksucker. I swear to Baio, if Dallas melts down in the next inning I will come to your house and beat you to death with an Evan Gattis gnome.

That's always your contribution to the GZ: tasteful repartee.

[MrKnuckleball]

You stupid, jinxing cocksucker. I swear to Baio, if Dallas melts down in the next inning I will come to your house and beat you to death with an Evan Gattis gnome.

Calm down buddy. It's not the end of the world.

[doyce7]

You stupid, jinxing cocksucker. I swear to Baio, if Dallas melts down in the next inning I will come to your house and beat you to death with an Evan Gattis gnome.

Mainly that marisnick needs to get cut because he's hitting .200 but Gomez should start because he's hitting .212

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[austro]

Between their catcher, outfielders, and shortstop, the A's have some real noodle-arms out there.

[MRaup]

Calm down buddy. It's not the end of the world.

Which piece of shit Canadian are you? Terrence or Phillip?

[NeilT]

Calm down buddy. It's not the end of the world.

That was calm.

[Tom Servo]

Between their catcher, outfielders, and shortstop, the A's have some real noodle-arms out there.

No kidding.  The guy behind the plate almost acts too scared to even try to throw to 2nd.

[MrKnuckleball]

Which piece of shit Canadian are you? Terrence or Phillip?

Easy buddy. You wouldn't wanna raise your blood pressure.

[drew corleone]

This has been an entertaining thread. I usually have to wade through Shaggybevo's Astros thread to see that much stupid spread over eight pages.

[WVastro]

Between their catcher, outfielders, and shortstop, the A's have some real noodle-arms out there.

But look at the OF batting averages. The A's outfield would be an upgrade at every position! Let's set up the conference call!

[austro]

Some Angel just jacked a 3-run shot to take a 2-run lead over the Arlington shitheads.

[MRaup]

Easy buddy. You wouldn't wanna raise your blood pressure.

My blood pressure is fine. I'm hoping I might raise your IQ a point or two. But then again: wish in one hand, shit in the other... Right?

[JimR]

Holy Jesus, what the fuck did I miss?!

The emergence of a new fucking idiot.

[MrKnuckleball]

My blood pressure is fine. I'm hoping I might raise your IQ a point or two. But then again: wish in one hand, shit in the other... Right?

You do all the right things buddy. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise okay?

[NeilT]

You do all the right things buddy. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise okay?

You gotta quit calling people buddy.  You gotta quite writing ha ha.   It's kinda weird.

[MRaup]

You do all the right things buddy. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise okay?

I can promise you I don't need some fuckstick 19 year old that thinks he's hot shit validating my existence. Do everyone else here a favor and fuck off. You're a goddamn idiot.

[JimR]

You do all the right things buddy. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise okay?

You are going to set a new GZ record for getting run out of here. Isn't this a school night?

[BudGirl]

You gotta quit calling people buddy.  You gotta quite writing ha ha.   It's kinda weird.

Neil,  get rid of that e, it bothers me and lowers your BA.

[MrKnuckleball]

I can promise you I don't need some fuckstick 19 year old that thinks he's hot shit validating my existence. Do everyone else here a favor and fuck off. You're a goddamn idiot.

Isn't bingo already over? Why are you still awake?

[MRaup]

Isn't bingo already over? Why are you still awake?

This is your big burn? Wow. You're even dumber than I thought, and that in and of itself is impressive.

[BudGirl]

I think he got the Raups mixed up.

[NeilT]

Neil,  get rid of that e, it bothers me and lowers your BA.

Ok, but a batting average of Nil really sucks.

[doyce7]

I think he got the Raups mixed up.

In fairness mark is much more of the "get off my lawn" type

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[MrKnuckleball]

This is your big burn? Wow. You're even dumber than I thought, and that in and of itself is impressive.

That hurt. Not.

[MRaup]

In fairness mark is much more of the "get off my lawn" type

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You're lucky I liked you when we met on Opening Day or I'd turn my sprinklers on.

[MRaup]

That hurt. Not.

Wow, reverted to 1995 cool kid talk, huh?

Maybe you're not young. You're just a fucking moron.

[JimR]

I think he got the Raups mixed up.

I am laughing over here about that.

What a dumbass. Will Waldo take him out soon?

[NeilT]

Marisnick's at bat.  Let's sit back and watch the game.

[MRaup]

I am laughing over here about that.

What a dumbass. Will Waldo take him out soon?

Have you MET Waldo?

We need a vengeful Hudson.

[BudGirl]

I am laughing over here about that.

What a dumbass. Will Waldo take him out soon?

I kind of hope not, I've laughed a lot tonight.

[JimR]

Ok, but a batting average of Nil really sucks.

Very nice

[MrKnuckleball]

Wow, reverted to 1995 cool kid talk, huh?

Maybe you're not young. You're just a fucking moron.

You seem a little too mad. Calm down.

[Tom Servo]

Wow, reverted to 1995 cool kid talk, huh?

Maybe you're not young. You're just a fucking moron.

Wow.  I guess he and Borat got that 'not joke' lesson.

[NeilT]

You seem a little too mad. Calm down.

That was calm.

[MrKnuckleball]

That was calm.

Ok

[JimR]

You seem a little too mad. Calm down.

Fuck off.

[MrKnuckleball]

Fuck off.

Ok

[MRaup]

You seem a little too mad. Calm down.

I'm good, thanks. I have mild hope you'll eventually say something funny or at least worth some real rage. But so far you're just another tired fucking loser trying to play at being cool while looking like a total cheesedick.

[NeilT]

Have you MET Waldo?

We need a vengeful Hudson.

I still think it is Hudson.

[JimR]

Where is HH? He needs to weigh in on Marwin in CF.

[BudGirl]

I think he is in India.

[NeilT]

Nice catch by Crisp.

[MRaup]

I still think it is Hudson.

Nah. Hudson is way more clever than this dingleberry.

[austro]

Where is HH? He needs to weigh in on Marwin in CF.

We need Spack.

[austro]

Shit, now I have to stay up one more inning to see Altuve go for the cycle.

[MrKnuckleball]

I'm good, thanks. I have mild hope you'll eventually say something funny or at least worth some real rage. But so far you're just another tired fucking loser trying to play at being cool while looking like a total cheesedick.

You have all kinds of names to call people in that vocabulary of yours. Do you feel special?

[JimR]

I still think it is Hudson.

Mr. K is HH? I do not think he could be this stupid even pretending.

[BudGirl]

Shit, now I have to stay up one more inning to see Altuve go for the cycle.

Are you one of those that leaves a game early?

[MRaup]

You have all kinds of names to call people in that vocabulary of yours. Do you feel special?

Not really. I've used them on plenty of numbfucks previously, and I'll use them on plenty more twiddledicks after you move on to the Minecraft forums.

[austro]

Are you one of those that leaves a game early?

I'm one of those who has to get up early tomorrow.

[Tom Servo]

Mr. K is HH? I do not think he could be this stupid even pretending.

I think this is when you hear that line, "Even Shakespeare couldn't write this"

[JimR]

We need Spack.

We do...badly.

[NeilT]

Shit, now I have to stay up one more inning to see Altuve go for the cycle.

Altuve is going for the cycle?  He'll hit an in-the-park home-run and trip around 3rd.

[doyce7]

Mr. K is HH? I do not think he could be this stupid even pretending.

He would have let something clever slip by now

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[MrKnuckleball]

Not really. I've used them on plenty of numbfucks previously, and I'll use them on plenty more twiddledicks after you move on to the Minecraft forums.

You seem way too mad about what someone has to say to you on the Internet. Is your life really that boring?

[JimR]

Altuve is going for the cycle?  He'll hit an in-the-park home-run and trip around 3rd.

He'll bunt

[NeilT]

You seem way too mad about what someone has to say to you on the Internet. Is your life really that boring?

He's a priest.  All he does is listen to other people's confessions.

[NeilT]

He'll bunt

Excellent

[MrKnuckleball]

He's a priest.  All he does is listen to other people's confessions.

That's wonderful.

[Tom Servo]

Fucking Shift!  (since HH isn't here tonight)

[JimR]

You seem way too mad about what someone has to say to you on the Internet. Is your life really that boring?

This is not "the Internet." This is OWA. There is a difference.

[NeilT]

That's wonderful.

Yes.  It's no wonder he's so angry.

[MRaup]

That's wonderful.

Care to confess anything my son?

Spare us the boring shit. Tell us the truth. How old are you? Is your first name Chris? Is your last name Correa? Are you posting from prison?

[NeilT]

Yes.  It's no wonder he's so angry.

Of course if Keuchel walks this batter he'll really be angry.

[Tom Servo]

Strom's a trooper.

[MrKnuckleball]

Yes.  It's no wonder he's so angry.

Maybe he is a priest. Asking people for personal information...

[WVastro]

Strom's a trooper.

Golfclap

[WVastro]

Giles?

[BudGirl]

Maybe he is a priest. Asking people for personal information...

Catholic priests do not do this.

[BudGirl]

Butler or Pujols, who is slower?

[NeilT]

Maybe he is a priest. Asking people for personal information...

Don't take it personally. He'd say the same stuff to you regardless of who you are.

[austro]

Butler or Pujols, who is slower?

I'd have to go with Pujols nowadays.

[MrKnuckleball]

Don't take it personally. He'd say the same stuff to you regardless of who you are.

Red flag

[MrKnuckleball]

Catholic priests do not do this.

Ok

[Tom Servo]

Fuck fuck fuck.

[austro]

Well, that was unhelpful.

[WVastro]

Well shit.

[NeilT]

Well shit.

No shit.

[MRaup]

Nice work Ash. I know their batting averages are close, but that's clearly Marisnik in CF.

[BudGirl]

I wish Ashby paid attention to who is playing on the field.  He obviously never scores a game.  I'd also like to thank Giles for his outing tonight.

[WVastro]

Ashby just now realized Marisnick started in center today. Must not be following the GZ.

[BudGirl]

I hate Ashby. 

[MRaup]

Ashby just now realized Marisnick started in center today. Must not be following the GZ.

Or he's been brow beaten by the idiocy here tonight and just assumed that Gomez is out there due to his superior BA.

[NeilT]

I hate Ashby.

You need to be concentrating on Giles.

[NeilT]

That was nice.

[MRaup]

Marwin with a SPECTACULAR pick to keep it 3-2 Good Guys.

[Tom Servo]

Good scoop by Marwin.

[BudGirl]

You need to be concentrating on Giles.

I blame Ashby, he weakens my powers for good.

[WVastro]

Damn!! I stopped breathing on that out....

[austro]

That was nice.

Giles hit that ball with his hand, right?

[JimR]

Marwin with a SPECTACULAR pick to keep it 3-2 Good Guys.

In CF?

[Ebby Calvin]

You need to be concentrating on Giles.

It  can be both,

[austro]

I blame Ashby, he weakens my powers for good.

If you had Julia's blue eyes, you'd really be in trouble.

[Tom Servo]

Giles hit that ball with his hand, right?

I believe so.  I was sure that was going to cause it to be a hit.

[BudGirl]

Giles hit that ball with his hand, right?

I don't think so.

[doyce7]

In CF?

His BA allows him to play both

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[NeilT]

Here we go.

[BudGirl]

If you had Julia's blue eyes, you'd really be in trouble.

I guess mine aren't blue enough.

[JimR]

I don't think so.

At Bat says yes.

[MRaup]

I love Blummer.

"HIT A HOMER!"

[BudGirl]

Whatever happens in this Altuve at-bat is because of Austro.

[BudGirl]

At Bat says yes.

I replayed it but it looked liked it missed, but it wouldn't be the first time I was wrong.

[austro]

Whatever happens in this Altuve at-bat is because of Austro.

I'd better change my identity.

[Tom Servo]

That would have been a "natural" cycle.  single, double, triple, HR in order. 

[Tom Servo]

That got interesting.

[JimR]

Exhale

[NeilT]

That got interesting.

Yes.

[Tom Servo]

Yes.

Insurance would be nice.

[doyce7]

Luke loves keeping us on edge

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[BudGirl]

apparently a Rangers pitcher hit Pujols in the face, he was on the ground.

https://twitter.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/755622437551742978

[Tom Servo]

apparently a Rangers pitcher hit Pujols in the face, he was on the ground.

https://twitter.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/755622437551742978

Damn.  Hope he's ok.

[WVastro]

apparently a Rangers pitcher hit Pujols in the face, he was on the ground.

https://twitter.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/755622437551742978

Watched the replay. Hit off the rim of the helmet. Still had to hurt like fuck. Was smiling at first within a minute or so. Pujols is one tough mofo.

[WVastro]

This A's team is so tough to put away.

[MrKnuckleball]

Wow

[Tom Servo]

FUCK

[Tom Servo]

Coco Crisp = idiot.

[doyce7]

I thought the game was over. Fuck

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[WVastro]

Lucky to still be in this game. I would have loved extra sleep instead of innings tonight...

[doyce7]

So many extra innings this year

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[Tom Servo]

Isn't Altuve due up?

I'm just saying...

[WVastro]

Just another ho-hum 4-5 night.

[doyce7]

There's a gift.

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[Tom Servo]

There's a gift.

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Gotta take advantage.

[doyce7]

Goddammit Gomez

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[WVastro]

Well that ended quickly...

[pots]

Got a guy that just 4 pitch walks the lefty he was suppose to get out and you groundout on the first pitch.  Fantastic

[Tom Servo]

Marisnick would have gotten the hit.

[doyce7]

I hate it when a guy swings at the first pitch after a 4 pitch walk to the previous batter

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[WVastro]

Got a guy that just 4 pitch walks the lefty he was suppose to get out and you groundout on the first pitch.  Fantastic

How else is supposed to raise his BA?

[Tom Servo]

Remember when Sipp used to be good?

[WVastro]

This is escalating quickly...

[doyce7]

I hate the shift

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[pots]

WTF?  He scored from second on a infield single?

[Tom Servo]

Motherfucker.

[BudGirl]

2 outs again.  ugh.

[BudGirl]

WTF?  He scored from second on a infield single?

it was 2 outs he was running.

[Tom Servo]

it was 2 outs he was running.

Did Correa hesitate before realizing he was on his way home? 

[doyce7]

What should have been a routine grounder to short is a game winning. How about that.

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[JimR]

it was 2 outs he was running.

How?

ETA we do not have a closer

[WVastro]

Great send by Washington. Shitty loss.

[JimR]

Great send by Washington. Shitty loss.

Terrible loss

[juliogotay]

Not sure what Correa was doing out there. He had the time to set his feet and throw but he was sorta lost out there.

[Tom Servo]

How?

ETA we do not have a closer

Yeah, Harris hasn't been as sharp since he took over the closer duties.  He seems like Gregerson in that regard.  And Giles is still too hittable.

[Tom Servo]

Not sure what Correa was doing out there. He had the time to set his feet and throw but he was sorta lost out there.

He pulled a Coco.

[pots]

Might try Devenski as a closer.  He has a lot of fire in him.  Could be good for the role. 

ETA.  It would mean you definitely need to remove Fiers from the rotation.  With Devenski in short relief and Feliz struggling, they wouldn't have enough long arms to make of for the consistent short starts

[juliogotay]

A's have won 4 of last 6 in this series and it was real close to 5/6 save the 2-out Valbuena HR in Houston. Missed opportunities.

[Tom Servo]

A's have won 4 of last 6 in this series and it was real close to 5/6 save the 2-out Valbuena HR in Houston. Missed opportunities.

These are the teams you have to beat.  This sucks.

[Tom Servo]

Might try Devenski as a closer.  He has a lot of fire in him.  Could be good for the role. 

ETA.  It would mean you definitely need to remove Fiers from the rotation.  With Devenski in short relief and Feliz struggling, they wouldn't have enough long arms to make of for the consistent short starts

Yeah, I wouldn't mind seeing Devenski, now that you mention it.  Forgot about him.

[The Spleen]

This team looks like it's a heartbeat away from starting to lose games in bunches...

[pots]

This team looks like it's a heartbeat away from starting to lose games in bunches...

Think it's time for a call up of somebody that might bring a little excitement.  And that's Bregman.  Slide Valbueana to first, move Marwin to DH/left.  Let Reed go take his cup of coffee experience to AAA and work on things. 

I think we will see something done on the off day Thursday.  Win or lose tomorrow.

[doyce7]

There's a few real talking points in this game for sure.
Is will Harris the best we have for closer?
Should keuchel have been allowed to pitch in the 7th?
Why was nobody warming up at least to begin the 7th?
How many games has the shift won or lost?
What the fuck was that knuckleball guy talking about?

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[NeilT]

You gotta blame this game on the 4th outfielder.

[Mr. Happy]

God damnit. I'll never get back the 30 minutes I just took to read this entire thread after the fact, but thanks for the laughs. In retrospect, I should have been more curt and told MrsKnuckleball to STFU at the very beginning. My bad.

[doyce7]

God damnit. I'll never get back the 30 minutes I just took to read this entire thread after the fact, but thanks for the laughs. In retrospect, I should have been more curt and told MrsKnuckleball to STFU at the very beginning. My bad.

Me and you both missed an opportunity there

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[juliogotay]

God damnit. I'll never get back the 30 minutes I just took to read this entire thread after the fact, but thanks for the laughs. In retrospect, I should have been more curt and told MrsKnuckleball to STFU at the very beginning. My bad.

I've come around to believing that Knucklehead is an inside job. Where has HH been?
I love conspiracy theories.

[Mr. Happy]

I've come around to believing that Knucklehead is an inside job. Where has HH been?
I love conspiracy theories.

It may well have been an inside job, but Hudson's wit and intelligence would have prohibited him from being as dumb as Knucklehead.

[juliogotay]

There's a few real talking points in this game for sure.
Is will Harris the best we have for closer?
Should keuchel have been allowed to pitch in the 7th?
Why was nobody warming up at least to begin the 7th?
How many games has the shift won or lost?
What the fuck was that knuckleball guy talking about?

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Harris is the best we have for closer and he's been near perfect in that role. Nothing else can be expected out of him. Giles has the stuff but not ready for that role. I hope he will be in time. The front office and Hinch have all of the data many times over on the shift. They wouldn't do it if the results didn't justify it.  I suspect Keuchel has a lot of input into his in-game status.

[juliogotay]

It may well have been an inside job, but Hudson's wit and intelligence would have prohibited him from being as dumb as Knucklehead.

A brilliant disguise. It takes intelligence to act that dumb.

[MusicMan]

The front office and Hinch have all of the data many times over on the shift. They wouldn't do it if the results didn't justify it. 

This is self-evident yet constantly ignored.

[Mr. Happy]

Harris is the best we have for closer and he's been near perfect in that role. Nothing else can be expected out of him. Giles has the stuff but not ready for that role. I hope he will be in time. The front office and Hinch have all of the data many times over on the shift. They wouldn't do it if the results didn't justify it.  I suspect Keuchel has a lot of input into his in-game status.

I agree on all scores. Giles is the closer-in-waiting, but he's not ready yet. I'm not a big fan of the shifts, unless they work, which is self-serving and monday morning quarterbacking. However, the stats don't lie, and the shifts work more often than not. There are some really good hitters that you want to avoid shifting on though.

[jbm]

None of us have access to the shift data, and even if we did, it is not as if legitimate interpretations couldn't exist at the same time.  It's not like a branch of science with objectively correct answers.  The idea that "they do it, so it must be right" is terribly misplaced.  As evidence, if they altered their strategy today (as they likely have done many times), would they have still been right yesterday? 

[Mr. Happy]

None of us have access to the shift data, and even if we did, it is not as if legitimate interpretations couldn't exist at the same time.  It's not like a branch of science with objectively correct answers.  The idea that "they do it, so it must be right" is terribly misplaced.  As evidence, if they altered their strategy today (as they likely have done many times), would they have still been right yesterday?

I don't disagree with you. If I was pitching, I'd piss and moan about them until they saved my ass, which is unfair criticism in my opinion. If you live by the shift, you have to be prepared to die by it. There must be some very compelling data to justify shifting against certain players. But again, hitters who have good bat control shouldn't be shifted against. You'd never shift against Tony Gwynn, for example,

[MusicMan]

I don't disagree with you. If I was pitching, I'd piss and moan about them until they saved my ass, which is unfair criticism in my opinion. If you live by the shift, you have to be prepared to die by it. There must be some very compelling data to justify shifting against certain players. But again, hitters who have good bat control shouldn't be shifted against. You'd never shift against Tony Gwynn, for example,

Right.  And they don't shift against everyone.  They're making the best decision they can based on the data available to them.

[Mr. Happy]

Right.  And they don't shift against everyone.  They're making the best decision they can based on the data available to them.

Exactly.

[MrKnuckleball]

God damnit. I'll never get back the 30 minutes I just took to read this entire thread after the fact, but thanks for the laughs. In retrospect, I should have been more curt and told MrsKnuckleball to STFU at the very beginning. My bad.

Lol

[juliogotay]

God damnit. I'll never get back the 30 minutes I just took to read this entire thread after the fact, but thanks for the laughs. In retrospect, I should have been more curt and told MrsKnuckleball to STFU at the very beginning. My bad.

You would have just encouraged him.

[JimR]

Lol

have a good day at school, junior.

[MrKnuckleball]

Well hopefully we will get a win today and get back on track at home against LA.

[juliogotay]

McTaggart posted these Altuve numbers last night:  In the last 23 road games he is hitting .500  49/98.

[MrKnuckleball]

have a good day at school, junior.

Have a good day at bingo, geezer.

[Mr. Happy]

McTaggart posted these Altuve numbers last night:  In the last 23 road games he is hitting .500  49/98.

Why isn't he out in CF? He clearly hits too well to play 2B.

[MrKnuckleball]

The fan favorite around these parts Marisnick went 0 for 4 with 2 Ks last night. All the way down to .194. And it's such a mystery why he doesn't play a lot.

[Mr. Happy]

The fan favorite around these parts Marisnick went 0 for 4 with 2 Ks last night. All the way down to .194. And it's such a mystery why he doesn't play a lot.

What part of there was a lefty on the mound last night don't you get?

[MrKnuckleball]

What part of there was a lefty on the mound last night don't you get?

We're past that.

[Tom Servo]

What part of there was a lefty on the mound last night don't you get?

And using a single game's performance as his ammo.  It's not a sprint, it's a marathon.  162 games.

[MrKnuckleball]

And using a single game's performance as his ammo.  It's not a sprint, it's a marathon.  162 games.

Yeah because that .194 average is for a single game right?

[JimR]

Yeah because that .194 average is for a single game right?

I am going to give you some semi-friendly advice: cut this shit out now. there is a force named Spack who will blast your ass and ban you if you do not.

[MrKnuckleball]

I am going to give you some semi-friendly advice: cut this shit out now. there is a force named Spack who will blast your ass and ban you if you do not.

Oh boy. Ok it's over.

[Tom Servo]

Yeah because that .194 average is for a single game right?

You missed the part about what he's hit lately, right?  And that you need to give players playing time to keep them from getting rusty?  And that it's no coincidence that his improved hitting has been while he's been playing more? 

And this is ignoring the fact he's one of the best outfielders in the game.  In center field. 

[MrKnuckleball]

You missed the part about what he's hit lately, right?  And that you need to give players playing time to keep them from getting rusty?  And that it's no coincidence that his improved hitting has been while he's been playing more? 

And this is ignoring the fact he's one of the best outfielders in the game.  In center field.

This guy played 133 games last year and didn't hit much better. So the rusty factor and playing time don't really matter there. Anyway we're going to have to agree to disagree. Let's get a win today and it will all be alright.

[pots]

This guy played 133 games last year and didn't hit much better. So the rusty factor and playing time don't really matter there. Anyway we're going to have to agree to disagree. Let's get a win today and it will all be alright.

A simple stat that may ease your mind is WAR.  Takes into account both defense and offense.  Marisnick is a +0.3.  And that is because he is a +1 defensively.  Now Gomez on the other hand has a -0.3 WAR.  Because he's average defensively and has been horrendous at the plate.  No one is going to defend Gomez though so you might as well stop typing.

[homer]

We're past that.

What the fuck does this mean? *WE* are all past it, but *YOU* keep bringing it up as if you have some how been vindicated. CarGo went 0 for 5 with 6 LOB including the shitty at bat in the 10th.

You may think you've found some kind of acceptance with MM's humorous recap and the general civility this morning. Just to be clear, however, we are laughing at you not with you.

[MrKnuckleball]

A simple stat that may ease your mind is WAR.  Takes into account both defense and offense.  Marisnick is a +0.3.  And that is because he is a +1 defensively.  Now Gomez on the other hand has a -0.3 WAR.  Because he's average defensively and has been horrendous at the plate.  No one is going to defend Gomez though so you might as well stop typing.

That's not saying much over Gomez but I see what you are getting at.

[VirtualBob]

That sounds right. JD was given the same chance around the same time, although he was more well thought of as far as top prospect lists go. The cream of the crop was considered to be Lyles, Singleton, Villar, Cosart, DDS, IIRC.

This should probably be in the TZ, but here goes.

Altuve came up in 2011.  The BA Pre-Season Top 10 that year were: Lyles, DeShields, Villar, Foltynewicz, Mier, Martinez, Paredes, Bushue, Wates, Ovando.  The MLB Post-Season Top 10 were Cosart, Singleton, Villar, Foltynewicz, Clemens, DeShields, Bushue, Oberholtzer, Wates, Santana.

The projected 2014 lineup was:
C - Castro
1B - Wallace
2B - DeShields
3B - Johnson
SS - Villar
OF - Martinez, Bourn, Pence
Rotation - Lyles, Rodriguez, Foltynewicz, Myers, Happ
Closer - Norris

Misses of note:
Feliz at GCL
Houser at Greeneville
Duffy, & Tropeano (& Springer in his draft year) at Tri-City
Keuchel (& Altuve to start the season) at Corpus


ETA:  Thanks go to Knucklehead. Amazing.

[MrKnuckleball]

This should probably be in the TZ, but here goes.

Altuve came up in 2011.  The BA Pre-Season Top 10 that year were: Lyles, DeShields, Villar, Foltynewicz, Mier, Martinez, Paredes, Bushue, Wates, Ovando.  The MLB Post-Season Top 10 were Cosart, Singleton, Villar, Foltynewicz, Clemens, DeShields, Bushue, Oberholtzer, Wates, Santana.

The projected 2014 lineup was:
C - Castro
1B - Wallace
2B - DeShields
3B - Johnson
SS - Villar
OF - Martinez, Bourn, Pence
Rotation - Lyles, Rodriguez, Foltynewicz, Myers, Happ
Closer - Norris

Misses of note:
Feliz at GCL
Houser at Greeneville
Duffy, & Tropeano (& Springer in his draft year) at Tri-City
Keuchel (& Altuve to start the season) at Corpus


ETA:  Thanks go to Knucklehead. Amazing.

Your welcome.

[Nate Colbert]

Did Correa hesitate before realizing he was on his way home?

From the SF Chronicle game report:

Washington was almost right up on the third-base bag when Correa was making the play and Correa looked Washington’s way initially, almost as if he thought Washington was the baserunner. None of the Astros thought Washington’s positioning was an issue, and Washington often moves up toward the runner if he wants him to go hard. “One I committed myself to not stopping Marcus, I ran up to him,” Washington said of moving up toward the bag. “That probably threw Correa off, seeing me there. But I was just going up to tell Marcus, ‘Go all the way. You gotta go.’ ” Washington hangs back if he believes he might have to change his mind and throw up a late stop sign. But if the shortstop catches a glimpse of the base coach and is distracted, well, “That’s the breaks,” Washington said.

[juliogotay]

This should probably be in the TZ, but here goes.

Altuve came up in 2011.  The BA Pre-Season Top 10 that year were: Lyles, DeShields, Villar, Foltynewicz, Mier, Martinez, Paredes, Bushue, Wates, Ovando.  The MLB Post-Season Top 10 were Cosart, Singleton, Villar, Foltynewicz, Clemens, DeShields, Bushue, Oberholtzer, Wates, Santana.

The projected 2014 lineup was:
C - Castro
1B - Wallace
2B - DeShields
3B - Johnson
SS - Villar
OF - Martinez, Bourn, Pence
Rotation - Lyles, Rodriguez, Foltynewicz, Myers, Happ
Closer - Norris

Misses of note:
Feliz at GCL
Houser at Greeneville
Duffy, & Tropeano (& Springer in his draft year) at Tri-City
Keuchel (& Altuve to start the season) at Corpus


ETA:  Thanks go to Knucklehead. Amazing.

This team would have made the "62 Mets look like the '61 Yankees.

[das]

None of us have access to the shift data, and even if we did, it is not as if legitimate interpretations couldn't exist at the same time.  It's not like a branch of science with objectively correct answers.  The idea that "they do it, so it must be right" is terribly misplaced.  As evidence, if they altered their strategy today (as they likely have done many times), would they have still been right yesterday?

\\groundcontrol/shiftdata/*.*
Username:  jluhnow
Password:  imsmrtr