Interesting comparison after Day One of two players traded for each in one of the most controversial trades in recent memory. Miami Marlins shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria 3-4, Blue Jays shortstop Jose Reyes 0-1, 15 Disabled List.
Only reason to smile on opening day if you are a Blue Jay fan, now Cub Emilio Bonifacio went 4-5 with a double and a stolen base and an outfield assist BUT was picked off at first base during the top of the 10th inning. Classic Emilio!
The Phillies and Rangers combined for 24 runs in their season opener. The game featured a player who had a great summer that amidst all the offence went 0-4 in Shin-Soo Choo. The game also featured a player who had arguably the rockiest of off-seasons smash a Grand Slam in the 2nd inning in Jimmy Rollins.
Detroit Tigers shortstop Alex Gonzalez 2-4. Free Agent Stephen Drew...well...suppose it's better making no money than it is playing for "under market value".
Cincinnati Red fans hope that rookie Billy Hamilton learned a valuable lesson in today's opener. You can't steal first base! Hamilton struck out all four of his at-bats.
Pablo Sandoval started his "contract year" with a strikeout and a fielding error, he's doing it wrong!
Monday 31 March 2014
Sunday 30 March 2014
Reaction to Game 1 Version 2 and Other Items
The most exciting part of the North American MLB opener, http://drawntomlb.com/post/81255210712/padres-ballgirl-you-are-amazing?partnerId=as_mlb_20140331_20985264 Thanks to MLB on Tumbler for the GIF but a catch by a ballgirl should not be the biggest highlight.
Then again as a fantasy baseball guy, maybe I'm just bitter cause Seth Smith and his homerun was missed by approximately 99% of fantasy players (according to Yahoo Sports anyway).
Other Items:
The negotiations about stiffening the penalties in the MLB drug policy have revealed a new wrinkle I absolutely love!! If at anytime during the season a player serves a suspension, that player(s) would be banned from the post-season also. Sure this only truly effects about half the teams in the league but it just might be the kick in the baseballs some players need to stay off the juice.
Feel good story out of Cleveland has to be Travis Wood. From Tommy John surgery on May 25, 2012 to making the Indians opening day roster. With TJ surgery becoming so commonplace, I'd better have a long list of pitchers here but there's a twist. Indians Manager Terry Francona told him the news on the mound, during a game he was pulling him out of the game.
A fable exists that winning co-relates with crowd growth (ask the Tampa Rays). The Pittsburgh Pirates are reporting the season ticket base has grown 40%. So then, if the fable is true, what the hell is happening in Tampa?
"Dice-K to Vegas" Ya know, if you're not baseball fan, that has a meaning of its own.
Then again as a fantasy baseball guy, maybe I'm just bitter cause Seth Smith and his homerun was missed by approximately 99% of fantasy players (according to Yahoo Sports anyway).
Other Items:
The negotiations about stiffening the penalties in the MLB drug policy have revealed a new wrinkle I absolutely love!! If at anytime during the season a player serves a suspension, that player(s) would be banned from the post-season also. Sure this only truly effects about half the teams in the league but it just might be the kick in the baseballs some players need to stay off the juice.
Feel good story out of Cleveland has to be Travis Wood. From Tommy John surgery on May 25, 2012 to making the Indians opening day roster. With TJ surgery becoming so commonplace, I'd better have a long list of pitchers here but there's a twist. Indians Manager Terry Francona told him the news on the mound, during a game he was pulling him out of the game.
A fable exists that winning co-relates with crowd growth (ask the Tampa Rays). The Pittsburgh Pirates are reporting the season ticket base has grown 40%. So then, if the fable is true, what the hell is happening in Tampa?
"Dice-K to Vegas" Ya know, if you're not baseball fan, that has a meaning of its own.
Friday 28 March 2014
Huge Contracts Overshadow Feel Good Stories
According to Wikipedia, Miguel Cabrera has just signed the largest pro sports contract in history. Looking at the Top 25 top contracts, 23 belong to the MLB!! A stunning 6 of those were signed going into this season! The New York Yankees signed Jacoby Ellsbury and Masahiro Tanaka to the 23rd and 20th largest contracts in history and watched the Seattle Mariners sign former Yankee Robinson Cano to the 4th largest contract. The Cincinnati Reds and the LA Dodgers placed contracts on the list at numbers 6 and 7 with Joey Votto and Clayton Kershaw respectively.
I randomly chose playoff predictions from Sports Illustrated and here's what I found in regards to the 5 teams listed above handing out history making deals. From SI's panel of six experts, only 2 of them had the Yankees making the playoffs while none of them have the Mariners making the post season. Only 2 of them have the Cinncinati Reds making the postseason in a very tough NL Central while the Dodgers and Tigers are both clean sweeps to make the playoffs.
Amidst all the pomp and circumstance around big money deals, there is a feel good story to mention. The Boston Red Sox have announced that Grady Sizemore will be there opening day starting center fielder completing a road to recovery that spanned two years!
Staying with the Boston Red Sox and news that's good for the soul. On April 21st, the Red Sox will wear home jersey's with the word "Boston" across the front instead of "Red Sox" to honour the city of Boston one year after the Boston Marathon bombings.
I randomly chose playoff predictions from Sports Illustrated and here's what I found in regards to the 5 teams listed above handing out history making deals. From SI's panel of six experts, only 2 of them had the Yankees making the playoffs while none of them have the Mariners making the post season. Only 2 of them have the Cinncinati Reds making the postseason in a very tough NL Central while the Dodgers and Tigers are both clean sweeps to make the playoffs.
Amidst all the pomp and circumstance around big money deals, there is a feel good story to mention. The Boston Red Sox have announced that Grady Sizemore will be there opening day starting center fielder completing a road to recovery that spanned two years!
Staying with the Boston Red Sox and news that's good for the soul. On April 21st, the Red Sox will wear home jersey's with the word "Boston" across the front instead of "Red Sox" to honour the city of Boston one year after the Boston Marathon bombings.
Wednesday 26 March 2014
MLB Nuggets - - PED Penalty Question, World Series Nifty Realization, Tigers Find, Twins Lost, Harper Mad,
The following is the reported new penalties being worked on for players using performance enhancing drugs (PED's). A first time offense would be 100 games instead of 50 unless it was "unintentional". A second time offense would be 162 games instead of 100, again unless it was "unintentional". Third time is a lifetime ban which is also the current penalty.
Here's what I find interesting, the MLB (much like the NFL) gives itself the power to be judge, jury & executioner. Therefore they decide if the players use of PED's was "unintentional" or not. So if a star player gets caught with a PED in their system but no major firm or pharmacy or scandal is linked to the sale of steroids to said star player, does it automatically just become "unintentional"?
Did you know that since the turn of the 2000's the New York Yankees and St Louis Cardinals are tied with 4 World Series appearances while the Boston Red Sox and San Francisco Giants are tied with 3 World Series appearances. Here's a nifty realization, the 2005 World Series featured the two teams who finished as the bottom two teams in the American League last season, the Chicago White Sox and the Houston Astros.
A sneaky good signing was recently made by the Detroit Tigers. The Tigers signed JD Martinez, cast away by the Houston Astros, to a minor league deal. Martinez big league career started strong midway 2011 but like many hitters, pitchers learn their faults therefore learning how to get them out. A fresh start in the Tigers organization should bring him back to the .274 batting average that had fans projecting so much good fortune for Mr. Martinez.
Have to feel sorry for the Minnesota Twins. The Twins entered training camp with arguably the first and second overall prospects in baseball in tow. Neither Byron Buxton nor Miguel Sano were expected to get much Major League play in 2014 but to have one suffer a wrist injury threatening the start of his season AND the other one to undergo Tommy John surgery ended his season, that's just terrible luck.
Need a friendly reminder that these exhibition games are not completely meaningless? Bryce Harper got himself worked up enough that he got ejected from a spring training game.
Here's what I find interesting, the MLB (much like the NFL) gives itself the power to be judge, jury & executioner. Therefore they decide if the players use of PED's was "unintentional" or not. So if a star player gets caught with a PED in their system but no major firm or pharmacy or scandal is linked to the sale of steroids to said star player, does it automatically just become "unintentional"?
Did you know that since the turn of the 2000's the New York Yankees and St Louis Cardinals are tied with 4 World Series appearances while the Boston Red Sox and San Francisco Giants are tied with 3 World Series appearances. Here's a nifty realization, the 2005 World Series featured the two teams who finished as the bottom two teams in the American League last season, the Chicago White Sox and the Houston Astros.
A sneaky good signing was recently made by the Detroit Tigers. The Tigers signed JD Martinez, cast away by the Houston Astros, to a minor league deal. Martinez big league career started strong midway 2011 but like many hitters, pitchers learn their faults therefore learning how to get them out. A fresh start in the Tigers organization should bring him back to the .274 batting average that had fans projecting so much good fortune for Mr. Martinez.
Have to feel sorry for the Minnesota Twins. The Twins entered training camp with arguably the first and second overall prospects in baseball in tow. Neither Byron Buxton nor Miguel Sano were expected to get much Major League play in 2014 but to have one suffer a wrist injury threatening the start of his season AND the other one to undergo Tommy John surgery ended his season, that's just terrible luck.
Need a friendly reminder that these exhibition games are not completely meaningless? Bryce Harper got himself worked up enough that he got ejected from a spring training game.
Tuesday 25 March 2014
MLB Stories: Shutter to Think, Shed a Tear, Celebrate and Ask
The Atlanta Braves have placed FIVE starting pitchers on the disabled list. Ask yourself, how would your team look if they were in this situation?
Cincinnati and Cleveland, Ohio baseball rivals, not many people will deny that. So when miscommunication was the word of the day in regards to the use of the designated hitter, you know what happened? A great father/son moment when Indians Manager Terry Francona gave the DH start to outfielder Nick Hamilton, his father watching from radio booth.
Many teams celebrate "Cinco De Mayo". None of them will top the Durham Bulls and their Star Wars jersey's the team will be wearing on May 4th. Picture from the Durham Bulls Twitter account.
The Pittsburgh Penguins Hockey Club attempted a simple social media concept. Using the Twitter hashtag #askNeal, fans could tweet a question to the star player. The results were many targeted questions about the players past transgressions. Imagine if you will #askARod or #askPierzynski or maybe #askBraun.
Cincinnati and Cleveland, Ohio baseball rivals, not many people will deny that. So when miscommunication was the word of the day in regards to the use of the designated hitter, you know what happened? A great father/son moment when Indians Manager Terry Francona gave the DH start to outfielder Nick Hamilton, his father watching from radio booth.
Many teams celebrate "Cinco De Mayo". None of them will top the Durham Bulls and their Star Wars jersey's the team will be wearing on May 4th. Picture from the Durham Bulls Twitter account.
The Pittsburgh Penguins Hockey Club attempted a simple social media concept. Using the Twitter hashtag #askNeal, fans could tweet a question to the star player. The results were many targeted questions about the players past transgressions. Imagine if you will #askARod or #askPierzynski or maybe #askBraun.
Monday 24 March 2014
What You May Have Missed From MLB Games Down Under & More
It's the MLB season opener, top of the 9th, Dodgers up 3 to 1. They announce Guerrero as a pinch hitter, the Diamondbacks change pitchers, the Dodgers change pinch hitters. It's game one of 162 and we get ourselves a double switch on a pinch hitter. It's easy to forget how much one measly game means in such a long season. Thanks Don Mattingly for reminding us that every game matters.
Going into Game 2, Scott Van Slyke went from game one super sub (2-3, double, homerun & walk) to game two defensive replacement in the bottom of the 9th. Baseball, so unfaithful.
In what had to be a missed hit and run sign in the 5th inning, Adrian Gonzalez STOLE a base as Andre Ethier took a pitch. Gonzalez, noted as one of the slower runners in the league, advanced to third base on a poor throw that kept rolling away from Aaron Hill.
Onto other news, the Detroit Tigers have recently traded for Alex Gonzalez, Andrew Romine and even contemplated offering 46 year old Omar Vizquel a shot at the glaring hole at shortstop. Meanwhile, Stephen Drew has reportedly reached out to the Tigers and reduced his demands to an Ervin Santana-like one year Band-Aid deal. Good on the Tigers for not caving, I for one will be cheering loudly for Mr. Gonzalez & Mr. Romine.
Poor Vance Worley, from 2011 third place in the NL Rookie of the Year and named one of five starting pitchers of "Baseball America" All Rookie Team to not being able to make the 2014 Minnesota Twins. Even after elbow problems ruined his 2012, the Minnesota Twins handed him the ball in their 2013 opener. Unfortunately, Worley never found his command and his MLB career is on hold.
Going into Game 2, Scott Van Slyke went from game one super sub (2-3, double, homerun & walk) to game two defensive replacement in the bottom of the 9th. Baseball, so unfaithful.
In what had to be a missed hit and run sign in the 5th inning, Adrian Gonzalez STOLE a base as Andre Ethier took a pitch. Gonzalez, noted as one of the slower runners in the league, advanced to third base on a poor throw that kept rolling away from Aaron Hill.
Onto other news, the Detroit Tigers have recently traded for Alex Gonzalez, Andrew Romine and even contemplated offering 46 year old Omar Vizquel a shot at the glaring hole at shortstop. Meanwhile, Stephen Drew has reportedly reached out to the Tigers and reduced his demands to an Ervin Santana-like one year Band-Aid deal. Good on the Tigers for not caving, I for one will be cheering loudly for Mr. Gonzalez & Mr. Romine.
Poor Vance Worley, from 2011 third place in the NL Rookie of the Year and named one of five starting pitchers of "Baseball America" All Rookie Team to not being able to make the 2014 Minnesota Twins. Even after elbow problems ruined his 2012, the Minnesota Twins handed him the ball in their 2013 opener. Unfortunately, Worley never found his command and his MLB career is on hold.
Thursday 20 March 2014
Weird MLB Rule Explained, New Pop Flavour, Injury Thoughts and a Notso Daring Comparison
The Houston Astros offer Outfielder George Springer, the Astros' top prospect a 7 year 23 million dollar contract. Springer declines the offer and is demoted to the minors. Here's the real reasoning behind the demotion - - > If an uber-prospect debuts on Opening Day, he'll be a free agent in six years, presuming he remains on the big league club. However, by waiting one month, a team can push back his free agency an entire year. Mr. Springer will be an Astro in May.
LeBron James now has is own flavor of Sprite. My vote for a MLB player to have his own flavor of Sprite would be the Angels Mike Trout. Somehow it's a sponsorship I don't see working!
Re-visiting the notion of "slips from grace", Hiroyuki Nakajima played his first two innings of exhibition baseball with Oakland A's recently. Nakajima was projected to be the A's starting shortstop in 2013 after signing a two-year, $6.5 million contract before last season. Today, Nakajima isn't even on the A's 40-man roster. Must not drink Sprite.
Los Angeles Dodger 1B Adrian Gonzalez reportedly has a stiff lower back from walking around sightseeing. Raise your hands if this excuse would earn you a day off of work. Anybody? This is exactly why some folks have a hard time respecting baseball players, suck it up buttercup!
The Miami Marlins posted a picture of Derek Dietrich and his nasty bruise after taking a baseball to the face on field. Cinncinati Red Aroldis Chapman only wishes he was that lucky.
You should be as worried about Derek Jeter’s spring training average of .132 in 41 plate appearances this spring as you are excited about Dustin Ackley's spring training average of .457 in 46 plate appearances.
Tuesday 18 March 2014
Umpire Safety, Slips From Grace and Clown Blood in the MLB
As a kid, I remember riding around in my Dad's car with no seatbelt on EVER. As a teenager, I remember riding a bicycle NEVER wearing a helmet. As an adult, I watch baseball and wonder why umpires play the field in baseball caps and not batting helmets. In an era where everything is about safety, why do umpires who cover first and third base not wear protective head wear? It's not like they have baseball gloves on to protect themselves if a ball does come at them! Sadly, it will likely take a serious head injury to an umpire before any level of baseball ushers in protective headwear for the most defenseless people on the field.
Seeing that the Astros released former Cardinals 1st round pick Brett Wallace and the Mariners have demoted uber-prospect Jesus Montero, made me wonder how Philip Humber was doing in Oakland. You know, the guy who throw a perfect game ONLY two years ago. Even with the A's missing Jarrod Parker AND A.J. Griffin due to injury, Mr. Perfect Game is still not on the Major League roster. When you go to work tomorrow, hug your boss!
How much longer before St. Louis Cardinals manager Mike Matheny sets up a meeting between relief pitcher Jason Motte (actively attacking his rehab from injury) and uber-prospect Oscar Taveras (shying away from his rehab).
Kenny Lofton thinks making the shiny new "one and done" wildcard playoff game and losing the game doesn't count as making the playoffs. The former Cleveland Indian is now being given the cold shoulder by current Cleveland Indian players because a lack of respect deserves a lack of respect back. I fully support the 2014 edition of the Indians.
Jimmy Rollins is 60 hits shy of overtaking Mike Schmidt as the Phillies’ all-time leader. IF that's his main motivation to stay a Phillie, I hope he gets his selfish ass stapled to the bench!
Cincinnati Red Trevor Bell, a 27-year-old reliever trying to make the team, is the grandson of Bob Bell, who played Bozo the Clown on WGN in Chicago from 1960 to 1984. THAT'S AWESOME! Great find by John DeMarzo of the New York Post.
Seeing that the Astros released former Cardinals 1st round pick Brett Wallace and the Mariners have demoted uber-prospect Jesus Montero, made me wonder how Philip Humber was doing in Oakland. You know, the guy who throw a perfect game ONLY two years ago. Even with the A's missing Jarrod Parker AND A.J. Griffin due to injury, Mr. Perfect Game is still not on the Major League roster. When you go to work tomorrow, hug your boss!
How much longer before St. Louis Cardinals manager Mike Matheny sets up a meeting between relief pitcher Jason Motte (actively attacking his rehab from injury) and uber-prospect Oscar Taveras (shying away from his rehab).
Kenny Lofton thinks making the shiny new "one and done" wildcard playoff game and losing the game doesn't count as making the playoffs. The former Cleveland Indian is now being given the cold shoulder by current Cleveland Indian players because a lack of respect deserves a lack of respect back. I fully support the 2014 edition of the Indians.
Jimmy Rollins is 60 hits shy of overtaking Mike Schmidt as the Phillies’ all-time leader. IF that's his main motivation to stay a Phillie, I hope he gets his selfish ass stapled to the bench!
Cincinnati Red Trevor Bell, a 27-year-old reliever trying to make the team, is the grandson of Bob Bell, who played Bozo the Clown on WGN in Chicago from 1960 to 1984. THAT'S AWESOME! Great find by John DeMarzo of the New York Post.
Saturday 15 March 2014
Right Idea's for the MLB
MLB has a rule, if the original team extends a qualifying offer to an upcoming eligible free agent, then if another team signs them during the off-season (up until the June draft) they have to give up a draft pick as compensation. The free agents complain about how this restricts their movement...bullfritters!! The only restriction to free agent movement is ridiculous contract demands. People live happily on $60,000/year so don't freakin tell me you can't make it by on only a measly $9Million/year! I'm looking at you Stephen Drew and Kendrys Morales.
The owner of a Vancouver bar Score on Davie has instituted an optional turn in your cell phone for the evening program. The idea is simple, to bring us back to a simpler time (early 1990's) when an evening out meant talking to whomever you were spending the evening with. I would love to see an MLB club adopt this optional program.
The San Diego Padres on Saturday March 15th are running a little contest. The Padres will have 1000 fans take one swing for a homerun at the cavernous Petco Park. Successful batters will win 2014 season tickets.
First, Ian Kinsler wishes his former team a winless season, now new Brewer Matt Garza expresses the following sentiment toward his former club the Chicago Cubs, ""I wish them the best but I like where I'm at, and I'm going to try to kick their teeth in every time I get a chance.""
What would you do if you were Carl Crawford: go to Australia with your LA Dodger teammates or stay home with "any day now" pregnant girlfriend? Do the right thing Mr. Crawford, stay home!
The owner of a Vancouver bar Score on Davie has instituted an optional turn in your cell phone for the evening program. The idea is simple, to bring us back to a simpler time (early 1990's) when an evening out meant talking to whomever you were spending the evening with. I would love to see an MLB club adopt this optional program.
The San Diego Padres on Saturday March 15th are running a little contest. The Padres will have 1000 fans take one swing for a homerun at the cavernous Petco Park. Successful batters will win 2014 season tickets.
First, Ian Kinsler wishes his former team a winless season, now new Brewer Matt Garza expresses the following sentiment toward his former club the Chicago Cubs, ""I wish them the best but I like where I'm at, and I'm going to try to kick their teeth in every time I get a chance.""
What would you do if you were Carl Crawford: go to Australia with your LA Dodger teammates or stay home with "any day now" pregnant girlfriend? Do the right thing Mr. Crawford, stay home!
Tuesday 11 March 2014
Baseball Blog Entry for the Casual Baseball Fan
Headline from MLB.com "(Grady) Sizemore passing all tests, could win starting job". Even if you are a Yankees fan, this news from Boston should put a smile on your face. Two years removed from the game to possible opening day Red Sox center fielder, I wonder what size Cinderella slipper Mr. Sizemore wears?
Cris Carter, the Houston Astro and MLB league leader in strikeouts last season (212), has been given some sound advice by manager Bo Porter: " Swing at more pitches he can hit, and swing at fewer he can't." My official guess for 2013, based on 145 games, 190 strikeouts.
Staying with the theme of making an "official guess" here come two more! 1) The Miami Marlins, who stroked out 19 hits in one game versus the Mets, will require three full regular season games versus the Rockies to get 19 hits. 2) The 2013 NL West last place Colorado Rockies will finish over .500 in 2014.
C.J. Wilson of the LA Angels: “I need to learn to be more efficient. Today was a good example of that. I didn’t walk anybody, so I was popping apple-cider ginger ale in the dugout for that one.” Yup, that's making the "Words to Live By" column! Quote provided by Alden Gonzalez blog.
Having watched the Marlins/Red Sox situation go from disrespecting each other to having one of the hottest trade rumours around, I'm waiting to see the trade rumour that comes from the "Twitter Battle" going on between the New York Mets, Kansas City Royals, and Cleveland Indians mascots.
Cris Carter, the Houston Astro and MLB league leader in strikeouts last season (212), has been given some sound advice by manager Bo Porter: " Swing at more pitches he can hit, and swing at fewer he can't." My official guess for 2013, based on 145 games, 190 strikeouts.
Staying with the theme of making an "official guess" here come two more! 1) The Miami Marlins, who stroked out 19 hits in one game versus the Mets, will require three full regular season games versus the Rockies to get 19 hits. 2) The 2013 NL West last place Colorado Rockies will finish over .500 in 2014.
C.J. Wilson of the LA Angels: “I need to learn to be more efficient. Today was a good example of that. I didn’t walk anybody, so I was popping apple-cider ginger ale in the dugout for that one.” Yup, that's making the "Words to Live By" column! Quote provided by Alden Gonzalez blog.
Having watched the Marlins/Red Sox situation go from disrespecting each other to having one of the hottest trade rumours around, I'm waiting to see the trade rumour that comes from the "Twitter Battle" going on between the New York Mets, Kansas City Royals, and Cleveland Indians mascots.
Monday 10 March 2014
Mount Roidmore, Skidmarks, Cubans, Short Memories, Curses & Runaway Strollers MLB-Style
Barry Bonds has started his "return" to baseball. Eric Chavez says thank you to one of the heads of Mount Roidmore. "A lot of players are outspoken about it," Chavez told USA TODAY Sports on Sunday morning. "They just forget how many riches, for lack of a better word, that all of us have enjoyed. Ownership, MLB, those guys brought baseball to a whole new level as far as popularity is concerned. That's something I'll never forget." - See more at: http://www.prosportsdaily.com/articles/as-bonds-returns-one-player-thanks-him-for-riches-294549.html#sthash.hLREPGyd.dpuf
So if you are Kyle Drabek, Drew Hutchinson, Dustin McGowan or Esmil Rogers of the Toronto Blue Jays how do you not feel like a skidmark on underpants when it's widely reported that right fielder Jose Bautista, shortstop Jose Reyes and first baseman Edwin Encarnacion are actively pursuing Ervin Santana?
Coming into pre-season, the 3 Cuban names I heard a lot of: Jose Abreu of the Chicago White Sox, Alex Guerrero of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and recently signed Aledmys Diaz of the St Louis Cardinals. Abreu likely the one to be in the starting lineup come the season opener. That's a lot of freakin money to be sitting on bench (possibly in the minors).
I laugh every time I heard the rumour of Giancarlo Stanton being to the Red Sox. Apparently the Marlins organization have short memories, or don't read Twitter (check front page "Sweet Tweets" to see what I'm talking about).
NY Mets 3B David Wright run the #faceofMLB contest leading into the exhibition season. He has started 0-7 at the plate. If Wright starts the regular season 0-7, can I coin the overdramatic phrase "Curse of faceofMLB"?
Now, I admit, sometimes when the game is on, my kids don't receive enough of my attention. I'm very glad to report that my attention span has never faltered as badly as this parent in the funny linked video - - > http://wapc.mlb.com/cutfour/2014/03/10/69054142/fan-leaves-baby-in-runaway-stroller
So if you are Kyle Drabek, Drew Hutchinson, Dustin McGowan or Esmil Rogers of the Toronto Blue Jays how do you not feel like a skidmark on underpants when it's widely reported that right fielder Jose Bautista, shortstop Jose Reyes and first baseman Edwin Encarnacion are actively pursuing Ervin Santana?
Coming into pre-season, the 3 Cuban names I heard a lot of: Jose Abreu of the Chicago White Sox, Alex Guerrero of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and recently signed Aledmys Diaz of the St Louis Cardinals. Abreu likely the one to be in the starting lineup come the season opener. That's a lot of freakin money to be sitting on bench (possibly in the minors).
I laugh every time I heard the rumour of Giancarlo Stanton being to the Red Sox. Apparently the Marlins organization have short memories, or don't read Twitter (check front page "Sweet Tweets" to see what I'm talking about).
NY Mets 3B David Wright run the #faceofMLB contest leading into the exhibition season. He has started 0-7 at the plate. If Wright starts the regular season 0-7, can I coin the overdramatic phrase "Curse of faceofMLB"?
Now, I admit, sometimes when the game is on, my kids don't receive enough of my attention. I'm very glad to report that my attention span has never faltered as badly as this parent in the funny linked video - - > http://wapc.mlb.com/cutfour/2014/03/10/69054142/fan-leaves-baby-in-runaway-stroller
Sunday 9 March 2014
Friends and Foes Within MLB
Friends - Toronto Blue Jays and Tampa Bay Rays
In advance of their exhibition game Friday March 7th, Rays Manager Joe Maddon called up Cameron Seitzer. Cameron is the son of Blue Jays Batting Coach Kevin Seitzer. To enhance the special father/son moment, Jays Manager John Gibbons moves Papa Seitzer over to be first base coach. Cameron is a first baseman.
Foes - Boston Red Sox and Miami Marlins
Thursday March 6, the Marlins host the Red Sox in exhibition play. The Red Sox did not dress the minimum amount of MLB vets. Marlins complain to everyone who will listen. The response from the principal owner of the Red Sox made "Sweet Tweets" on the front page of the blog.
In advance of their exhibition game Friday March 7th, Rays Manager Joe Maddon called up Cameron Seitzer. Cameron is the son of Blue Jays Batting Coach Kevin Seitzer. To enhance the special father/son moment, Jays Manager John Gibbons moves Papa Seitzer over to be first base coach. Cameron is a first baseman.
Foes - Boston Red Sox and Miami Marlins
Thursday March 6, the Marlins host the Red Sox in exhibition play. The Red Sox did not dress the minimum amount of MLB vets. Marlins complain to everyone who will listen. The response from the principal owner of the Red Sox made "Sweet Tweets" on the front page of the blog.
Thursday 6 March 2014
The Grand Scheme of Life in Relation to Baseball
Frank Jobe, the doctor who "invented" Tommy John surgery,
has passed way. Rest In Peace Mr. Jobe.
You enabled the ability to extend more MLB careers than steroids ever has or will.
Like being in caught up in the majesty that is Disneyland and catching yourself chatting away to one of the suited characters, sometimes fans forget that baseball is just a game. I give you four very different examples of "real life" interfering with "the game".
1) Rich Hill signed this past off-season with the Boston Red Sox in large part due to a desire to be closer to his family. His infant son, barely two months old recently passed away.
He was recently quoted on CBS Sports website ""Excited to be here, to be playing baseball again and get back into the normalcy of my profession and to be around a great group of guys and to just take that next step,""
I sincerely hope he makes the Red Sox major league squad to help work through the pain.
2) Oscar Taveras of the St Louis Cardinals is a "can't miss" prospect. The banana peel on the roadway to stardom? Oscar Taveras had ankle surgery last season to end his AAA season and is, rightfully, a little leery about going full boar to test his surgically repaired ankle.
"Physically, there is technically nothing wrong with Taveras. But he’s reluctant to let loose and go full speed. If there’s pain, it’s in his head. He’s apparently fearful of derailing his career by re-injuring the joint, and has favored the right leg while running the bases." Credit Bernie Miklasz for the observation.
At what point in Taveras recovery do the Cards appear as if they are "playing God" with the livelihood of a 22 year old?
3) "Despite 103 RBIs, it is tough to ignore Brandon Phillips' eroding skill set as his days as an elite offensive second baseman may be numbered" The caption underneath Anthony Castrovince MLB.com report about the Cincinnati Reds "star".
Phillips, who was nearly traded to the New York Yankees during the off-season, does not feel the love and respect he feels is owed. I do not sense a Derek Jeter-like farewell tour for Mr. Phillips in the future.
4) Coincidence? Dodgers starting pitcher Zack Greinke mentions he has little interest in going to Australia and now his calf injury will keep him from going?
I'm not implying the injury is not legit but sometimes when you park at a meter and there's enough time left on it for you not to pay a toll...I hope he along with Chase Headley and Josh Hamilton are all ready for March 31/April 1.
Tuesday 4 March 2014
Today's Check-in of the Fun Side of the MLB
Thanks to the website "Bleacher Report" for the following two great finds:
Title says it all and the words have been added to the "Words to Live By" Column on the front page.
Click the link to see the hilarious photo!
Moving over to the "MLB Fancave":
The better discussion to have about the shiniest new toy in the stolen base ranks is whether Mr. Hamilton can break 70 stolen bases in season, a feat only accomplished 3 times in the new millennium!! In case you are curious: Scott Podsednik 70 in 2004, Jacoby Ellsbury 70 in 2009 and Jose Reyes 78 in 2007.
You won't remember this but the other day, I wrote about Mr Hamilton's Cincinnati Reds and their owner complaining about ticket sales growth not being where he wanted it to be. MEANWHILE, in Cleveland, the Indians home opener sold out in 15 minutes!!
Lastly, with rumours getting stronger that Joe Saunders is signing with the Texas Rangers, I get to dust off the bobblehead I have of him.
Moving over to the "MLB Fancave":
1) they posted video of Brian Wilson,
known for many things except throwing a knuckle ball,
throwing a freakin knuckle ball
2) Wondering whether or not Cincinnati Reds speed demon Billy Hamilton
can break the single game record for stolen bases. NO, conversation over!
The better discussion to have about the shiniest new toy in the stolen base ranks is whether Mr. Hamilton can break 70 stolen bases in season, a feat only accomplished 3 times in the new millennium!! In case you are curious: Scott Podsednik 70 in 2004, Jacoby Ellsbury 70 in 2009 and Jose Reyes 78 in 2007.
You won't remember this but the other day, I wrote about Mr Hamilton's Cincinnati Reds and their owner complaining about ticket sales growth not being where he wanted it to be. MEANWHILE, in Cleveland, the Indians home opener sold out in 15 minutes!!
Lastly, with rumours getting stronger that Joe Saunders is signing with the Texas Rangers, I get to dust off the bobblehead I have of him.
Monday 3 March 2014
A Couple MLB Hobbies and Dreams
John Axford successfully closed 19 of 26 ballgames last year for a 73% close rate. Mr. Axford went 18 of 18, a perfect 100%, with his Oscar predictions. I guess everybody needs a hobby.
Speaking of hobbies, I'm thinking Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson is taking a shine to Twitter. He used Twitter to announce that Patrick Corbin and Trevor Cahill will be his starting pitchers for the 2 game series in Australia.
Kristie Reiken of the Associated Press got the following quote from twice suspended prospect Jon Singleton of the Houston Astros:
Mandatory clip to Corey Hart music video here
Speaking of hobbies, I'm thinking Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson is taking a shine to Twitter. He used Twitter to announce that Patrick Corbin and Trevor Cahill will be his starting pitchers for the 2 game series in Australia.
Kristie Reiken of the Associated Press got the following quote from twice suspended prospect Jon Singleton of the Houston Astros:
I know that I enjoy smoking weed, I enjoy being high and I can't block that out of my mind that I enjoy that," he said. "So I have to work against that
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20140303_ap_46c2dd6f8c9040d7b9462a184c6cb1da.html#JekfI9V0rmSsXHzK.99
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20140303_ap_46c2dd6f8c9040d7b9462a184c6cb1da.html#JekfI9V0rmSsXHzK.99
"At this point it’s pretty evident to me that I’m a drug addict. I don’t openly tell everyone that, but it’s pretty apparent to myself. I know that I enjoy smoking weed, I enjoy being high and I can’t block that out of my mind that I enjoy that. So I have to work against that"
Good luck Mr. Singleton in staying clean and sober and realizing your MLB dreams.
I know that I enjoy smoking weed, I enjoy being high and I can't block that out of my mind that I enjoy that," he said. "So I have to work against that
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20140303_ap_46c2dd6f8c9040d7b9462a184c6cb1da.html#JekfI9V0rmSsXHzK.99
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20140303_ap_46c2dd6f8c9040d7b9462a184c6cb1da.html#JekfI9V0rmSsXHzK.99
I know that I enjoy smoking weed, I enjoy being high and I can't block that out of my mind that I enjoy that," he said. "So I have to work against that
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20140303_ap_46c2dd6f8c9040d7b9462a184c6cb1da.html#JekfI9V0rmSsXHzK.99
Staying with the theme of realizing MLB dreams: I have twice mentioned Grady Sizemore and his attempt to return from dual microfracture knee surgeries. Also attempting the feat is Seattle Mariner Corey Hart. If his steal of home base is a sign, I think he is going to be okay! Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20140303_ap_46c2dd6f8c9040d7b9462a184c6cb1da.html#JekfI9V0rmSsXHzK.99
Mandatory clip to Corey Hart music video here
Sunday 2 March 2014
MLB Fistpumps
Adam Dunn, 6 of 28, with 1 homerun, 6 walks and 12 strikeouts versus Jeremy Guthrie apparently has his respect as evidenced by Guthrie's "Sweet Tweet" just to the right of this article on the main page.
I must send a shout out to Reds Owner Bob Castellini. Having some experience with professional sporting teams and their relationships with the media, Mr. Castellini has taken it upon himself to say out loud the words many, if not all, owners mutter to themselves - - "It gets written in such a way – ‘Well, the Reds aren't doing anything' – that really does affect people buying season tickets. “Personally, I get a little ticked off." I respect for your speaking your opinions but look how far that got the late Marge Schott.
Grady Sizemore, coming back from duel micro fracture knee surgery, took a spill today in centerfield today. You know people are rooting for you to be healthy and complete the storybook comeback after two years away when the simple fact you got up, makes the local Boston blog story.
Now, I'm not one to really pay attention to exhibition game box scores but holy moly, the Braves and Nationals played to a 16-15 final score on March 1st. WOW, I'd love to see that happen in the regular season!!
I must send a shout out to Reds Owner Bob Castellini. Having some experience with professional sporting teams and their relationships with the media, Mr. Castellini has taken it upon himself to say out loud the words many, if not all, owners mutter to themselves - - "It gets written in such a way – ‘Well, the Reds aren't doing anything' – that really does affect people buying season tickets. “Personally, I get a little ticked off." I respect for your speaking your opinions but look how far that got the late Marge Schott.
Grady Sizemore, coming back from duel micro fracture knee surgery, took a spill today in centerfield today. You know people are rooting for you to be healthy and complete the storybook comeback after two years away when the simple fact you got up, makes the local Boston blog story.
Now, I'm not one to really pay attention to exhibition game box scores but holy moly, the Braves and Nationals played to a 16-15 final score on March 1st. WOW, I'd love to see that happen in the regular season!!
Saturday 1 March 2014
Nifty MLB Finds
Example of dedication from the Pittsburgh Tribune Review: Pirates 2B Neil Walker is attacking the problems he had against left handed pitchers last season by going to minor league camp. With a lack of left handed pitchers in the upcoming MLB pre-season schedule, Walker will pick up some games with Double-A Trenton Thunder when they play against lefties.
On the day Blue Jays Jose Bautista was in the final four of the "Face of the MLB" contest on Twitter, he hit a homerun and a double. On the day after he signed his 1 million dollar arbitration contract, Angels Mike Trout hit a grand slam. In the wake of the news that he is a porn addict, Cardinals pitcher Carlos Martinez had a solid outing trying to lock down a spot in the starting rotation.
From the San Francisco Tribune: "He's worked as a volunteer fireman, has appeared in a popular TV show, is a wine connoisseur and does an immense amount of community work, much of it with no fanfare." Oakland A's fans, that's your new closer Jim Johnson.
One of the oldest rivalries in the MLB is the Red Sox versus the Yankees. With Jacoby Ellsbury switching sides this past summer, it was nice to read the Red Sox blog article from "Brownie Points" showing that it was done civilly. Give it a click!
Check the "Sweet Tweets" for an addition from MLB Fancave care of Joba Chamberlain and his "happy face" tattoo PLUS check the "Words to live by" for an addition from Torii Hunter.
On the day Blue Jays Jose Bautista was in the final four of the "Face of the MLB" contest on Twitter, he hit a homerun and a double. On the day after he signed his 1 million dollar arbitration contract, Angels Mike Trout hit a grand slam. In the wake of the news that he is a porn addict, Cardinals pitcher Carlos Martinez had a solid outing trying to lock down a spot in the starting rotation.
From the San Francisco Tribune: "He's worked as a volunteer fireman, has appeared in a popular TV show, is a wine connoisseur and does an immense amount of community work, much of it with no fanfare." Oakland A's fans, that's your new closer Jim Johnson.
One of the oldest rivalries in the MLB is the Red Sox versus the Yankees. With Jacoby Ellsbury switching sides this past summer, it was nice to read the Red Sox blog article from "Brownie Points" showing that it was done civilly. Give it a click!
Check the "Sweet Tweets" for an addition from MLB Fancave care of Joba Chamberlain and his "happy face" tattoo PLUS check the "Words to live by" for an addition from Torii Hunter.
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