The Briefing Room
General Category => Sports/Entertainment/MSM/Social Media => Topic started by: Hoodat on March 12, 2023, 07:15:18 pm
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(https://i.postimg.cc/YSN8bmdZ/baseballthread.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/94MGfz5Y)
Here is your thread for baseball chat for the 2023 season.
MLB official site:
https://mlb.com/
Wikipedia:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2023_Major_League_Baseball_season
Photo borrowed from @jmyrlefuller thread from last year.
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This called strike to end the game is the most atrocious call I've ever seen in my life. It got the ump suspended indefinitely.
Hamilton Porter ·· Mar 12, 2023
If you're a baseball fan, prepare to get angry. I defy you to watch this video of the ending of the Miss. Valley State-New Orleans game yesterday and not get heated:
https://twitter.com/espn/status/1634585250624831488
https://notthebee.com/article/this-is-the-worst-strike-call-ive-ever-seen/
The umpire clearly did not like being questioned on the previous call. But his actions on the next pitch were clearly an abuse of power. Had I been the catcher, I would have intentionally dropped the ball and allowed the runner to reach first base, forcing the umpire to continue the game.
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Flashback from '97. (Yes, more bad calls going against the Braves)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mR3eK5gCChM)
@Polly Ticks
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Thanks @Hoodat !
It kind of slipped away from me.
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FYI ... One year of free MLB.TV is coming to T-Mobile Tuesday on 3/28.
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Not sure we have any Mets fans, but your closer Edwin Diaz went down with a knee injury during the WBC during a post game celebration for his home team of Pueto Rico. Understand he had to be carted off in a wheel chair. He had a patellar tendon tear, and will have surgery, and from my guess with these types of injuries, will be out for the year.
https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/16/sport/edwin-diaz-world-baseball-classic-injury-spt-intl/index.html (https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/16/sport/edwin-diaz-world-baseball-classic-injury-spt-intl/index.html)
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Not sure we have any Mets fans, but your closer Edwin Diaz went down with a knee injury during the WBC during a post game celebration for his home team of Pueto Rico. Understand he had to be carted off in a wheel chair. He had a patellar tendon tear, and will have surgery, and from my guess with these types of injuries, will be out for the year.
https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/16/sport/edwin-diaz-world-baseball-classic-injury-spt-intl/index.html (https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/16/sport/edwin-diaz-world-baseball-classic-injury-spt-intl/index.html)
@catfish1957
And 'Tuve's got a broken thumb. Estimated to be out for 10 weeks or so. 8888crybaby
@Hoodat
Thanks for creating this thread. I came looking for one a couple of weeks ago. Figured someone would create one soon enough. Appreciate your taking the initiative.
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Not sure we have any Mets fans, but your closer Edwin Diaz went down with a knee injury during the WBC during a post game celebration for his home team of Pueto Rico. Understand he had to be carted off in a wheel chair. He had a patellar tendon tear, and will have surgery, and from my guess with these types of injuries, will be out for the year.
That's terrible for him, and a leg injury is very tough on a pitcher. I am a little surprised teams are letting their stars participate in the WBC.
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That's terrible for him, and a leg injury is very tough on a pitcher. I am a little surprised teams are letting their stars participate in the WBC.
They're taking some heat for that, as some consider it an unnecessary risk; however, others are pointing out that there are always injuries during spring training, too.
Presumably, they're hoping the WBC will help bring more fans into the fold.
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I hate to see anyone injured, even if they are on a team I don't care for.
We had some banana ball in Sugar Land this weekend. Really fun rules on this version of baseball!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-4oMHbcP8U
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Question for the super-duper ultmate baseball geeks.....
When in player evaluation stats mode does a player like Ohtani's WAR get calculated on both pitching and offensive contributions?
Trying to envision how much an annual player with a 10 WAR would get when he hits free agency........
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This called strike to end the game is the most atrocious call I've ever seen in my life. It got the ump suspended indefinitely.
Hamilton Porter ·· Mar 12, 2023
If you're a baseball fan, prepare to get angry. I defy you to watch this video of the ending of the Miss. Valley State-New Orleans game yesterday and not get heated:
https://twitter.com/espn/status/1634585250624831488
https://notthebee.com/article/this-is-the-worst-strike-call-ive-ever-seen/
The umpire clearly did not like being questioned on the previous call. But his actions on the next pitch were clearly an abuse of power. Had I been the catcher, I would have intentionally dropped the ball and allowed the runner to reach first base, forcing the umpire to continue the game.
Yeah, I saw that. I think the ump was disciplined/suspended/fired.
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Question for the super-duper ultmate baseball geeks.....
When in player evaluation stats mode does a player like Ohtani's WAR get calculated on both pitching and offensive contributions?
Trying to envision how much an annual player with a 10 WAR would get when he hits free agency........
Yes, it does. I'm the mod on a baseball forum full of some extraordinarily intense stat geeks, and I think it was last year that they were crunching all those numbers and debating it. A couple of the guys are actually employed by teams, and they chip in as well.
I have to say that I love Ohtani. He's got a great baseball attitude and just seems like a super good guy. Fantastic for baseball, too.
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Flashback from '97. (Yes, more bad calls going against the Braves)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mR3eK5gCChM)
@Polly Ticks
I remember that game. My Indians made it to the World Series that year against the Marlins, and we got "Hernandez'd as well." But that particular game you posted was the worst.
Gregg should have been fired after that game, but wasn't. They didn't let him call postseason games again, and he was out a couple of years later. But they didn't fire him, likely because he was one of the first black umpires.
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Opening Day in 5 days...
According to predictive stats at Fan Graphs here is how your team stacks up. On opening day hope springs eternal. We all are 0-0.
(Sorry for the spacing)
https://www.fangraphs.com/standings/playoff-odds (https://www.fangraphs.com/standings/playoff-odds)
Team % Chance of winning WS % Chance of making playoffs.
====== ==== ====
Braves 14.8 91.9
Padres 12.0 88.0
Yankees. 10.9. 83.4
Astros 8.8. 79.2
Mets 7.9 79.0
Blue Jays 6.6 71.7
Devil Rays. 5.4 66.8
Cardinals 5.3 72.1
Dodgers 5.1 68.5
Brewers 3.1 57.5
Mariners. 2.9 48.0
Indians. 2.8 54.2
Phillies. 2.7 49.8
Angels 2.2 40.8
Twins 2.0 45.5
Giants 1.9 41.3
Rangers. 1.7 36.1
Red Sox 1.4 30.0
White Sox. 0.9. 27.7
Marlins 0.6 22.4
Diamondbacks. 0.4 13.6
Oiroles 0.3 8.2
Cubs 0.2 10.6
Pirates. 0.1 4.4
Royals 0.0. 4.5
Tigers 0.0. 3.4
Reds 0.0 0.7
Athletics. 0.0 0.6
Rockies 0.0 0.1
Nationals. 0.0 0.1
Yeah I said Indians instead of Guardians on purpose.....
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Got to admit, that even with all the crappy MLB wokeness, I am starting to feel the spring fever of opening day..... Anyone want to prognosticate what we will see this year. Some teams like Toronto really strengthed, while some like the poor Mets just suffered a -4 to 5 WAR with the loss of the closer. Plus as an Astros fan, I know it isn't too smart to bet against Verlander, but at some point he's going to start showing his age. I think they underperform this year.
From my view point this year including seed:
NL
Byes (ATL 1) (LA 2)
WC (MIL 3) v (PHI 6)
(SD 4) v. (SF 5)
AL
Byes (TOR 1) (HOU 2)
WC (MIN 3 v. NYY 6)
(TB 4 v. SEA 5)
NLDS
ATL over PHI
SD over LA
ALDS
TOR over NYY
SEA over HOU. (Yeah, my team, but this team has been subject to bouts of complacency that haunts them sometimes). Seattle would love nothing better to get revenge and rub it in our faces.
LCS
SD over ATL
TOR over SEA
WS
SD over TOR. (And FOX and MLB again are aghast at ratings due to teams in the WS
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Ok, so who has been watching spring training games, and what do you think of the pitch clock / shift ban?
I'm thinking the pitch clock will be great for folks watching at home on TV, but less happy for those attending the game live at the ballpark. Instead of missing an inning when you go to the concessions stand, you'll miss an inning and a half.
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Ok, so who has been watching spring training games, and what do you think of the pitch clock / shift ban?
I'm thinking the pitch clock will be great for folks watching at home on TV, but less happy for those attending the game live at the ballpark. Instead of missing an inning when you go to the concessions stand, you'll miss an inning and a half.
I've basically hated every rule change since the DH. Baseball is a game for the purist, and its stats are sacred. As a kid, numbers like 60, 4191, 714 had special meaning. As far as I am concerned, almost every COB in the past 50 years has tried to ruin the game.
The timeclock hurts managers ability to milk the time, where he now has to go to the pen with possibiy an under warmed up arm. That and the stupid three batter rule.
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Plus as an Astros fan, I know it isn't too smart to bet against Verlander, but at some point he's going to start showing his age.
Verlander has said that he just wants to play long enough for his daughter to have memories of him pitching on the mound, and I hope that works out for him.
(https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2022-11/Justin-Verlander-Kate-Upton-Genevieve-Verlander-mc-2x1-221107-872775.jpg)
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Verlander has said that he just wants to play long enough for his daughter to have memories of him pitching on the mound, and I hope that works out for him.
(https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2022-11/Justin-Verlander-Kate-Upton-Genevieve-Verlander-mc-2x1-221107-872775.jpg)
Making $40M a year, and married to Kate Upton?
I'd say.... Basebaw ben vedy vedy good to Justin.
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Just a reminder, today is the day you can get a free year of MLB.TV with T-Mobile Tuesday.
You're on your own for the VPN.
:beer:
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I'm thinking the pitch clock will be great for folks watching at home on TV, but less happy for those attending the game live at the ballpark. Instead of missing an inning when you go to the concessions stand, you'll miss an inning and a half.
I'm not wild about a tacky clock, but lately, the pace is excruciatingly slow. The players sort of brought it on themselves.
The other changes are totally unnecessary.
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I hate to see anyone injured, even if they are on a team I don't care for.
We had some banana ball in Sugar Land this weekend. Really fun rules on this version of baseball!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-4oMHbcP8U
Friends of mine went. ( I am only one mile away from the stadium).
We have our 10 game "Silver Stars" (55+ years old) package, for the Sugar Land Space Cowboys.
For those not familiar, they are the Astros Triple a Team.
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Question for the super-duper ultmate baseball geeks.....
When in player evaluation stats mode does a player like Ohtani's WAR get calculated on both pitching and offensive contributions?
Trying to envision how much an annual player with a 10 WAR would get when he hits free agency........
Is it possible that the Angels may trade him before they lose control of him and he becomes a free Agent?
Hard to imagine, I know, kind of like trading Babe Ruth, but let's face it.
Outside of Trout and Ohtani, the Angels are rebuilding, and another huge salary may hamper that.
Just wonderin'
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{Behind paywall, but briefly excerpted}
Rickey Henderson on MLB’s new rules: ‘You gotta let these kids run’
[...]
With the distance from first base to second base and second to third now 4 1/2 inches shorter, The Athletic spoke to more than a dozen people this spring about whether the sport will return to annually having players with 70 or 80 steals. (To get the former, you have to go back to Jacoby Ellsbury in 2009.)
Opinions varied. But the question kept coming up, in interviews and casual conversations.
How many would Rickey steal?
“Oh, I’d say 1,600 or 1,700,” Henderson told The Athletic in a phone interview on Friday. “I do have 1,406 (all-time).”
As if anyone can forget. Henderson’s stolen base record is so preposterous he’s 468 steals ahead of second-place, Hall of Famer Lou Brock. To put that in perspective, the active leader in steals – Dee Strange-Gordon – is more than 1,000 behind Henderson at 336 and is still a free agent. Henderson stole 100 or more bases three times, including 130 in 1982, which still stands as the single-season record.
[...]
Henderson stole more bases in 1982 than any big-league team did last year. (Texas again topped the chart with 128.)
Now imagine Henderson watching all these guys double their stolen base totals because pitchers’ pickoffs are limited and the bases are bigger. The gregarious 64-year-old isn’t content watching other guys creep closer to him under an easier set of rules.
“I wish the game would be just left alone,” said Henderson, who was inducted into Cooperstown in 2009, “but if they’re going to (make these changes) they got to add 50 or 60 on mine. That’s the new rule.”
https://theathletic.com/4349809/2023/03/27/rickey-henderson-stolen-bases-mlb/ (https://theathletic.com/4349809/2023/03/27/rickey-henderson-stolen-bases-mlb/)
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Lady and Gents.... I have a sad bit of news that again, Joe Biden will forgo the ceremonial first pitch of the MLB season.
Secretly handlers have confided that they are afraid that if Biden is handed the ball, he will start rubbing them.
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(https://dodgerblue-com.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2023-Opening-Day-logo.png?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1) (https://media.tenor.com/UdBEqkD6SAAAAAAC/its-finally-here-at-last.gif)
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Fn1GEpXXEAMo-bf?format=jpg&name=900x900)
Ok, NOW it is officially spring! Happy, happy day!
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(https://dodgerblue-com.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2023-Opening-Day-logo.png?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1) (https://media.tenor.com/UdBEqkD6SAAAAAAC/its-finally-here-at-last.gif)
Ok, NOW it is officially spring! Happy, happy day!
Seems so strange to have a full slate of games on opening day. Wonder if had ever happened before. I know it hasn't in my lifetime of watching. (1965-now)
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Seems so strange to have a full slate of games on opening day. Wonder if had ever happened before. I know it hasn't in my lifetime of watching. (1965-now)
I haven't really been seeing a lot of hoopla about it, but maybe I've just been under a rock somewhere. Apparently, it HAS happened, but not in a long time:
MLB Opening Day: Everything you need to know about the first day of baseball season
All MLB teams will play on the same Opening Day for the first time since 1968
By Ashlyn Messier | Fox News
Spring is almost here and for baseball fans around the country, it's the most wonderful time of the year. The 30 MLB teams are gearing up for a season that is kicking off with a unique start. For the first time since 1968, every single team will play their first game on the same day.
https://www.foxnews.com/sports/mlb-opening-day-baseball-season (https://www.foxnews.com/sports/mlb-opening-day-baseball-season)
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I haven't really been seeing a lot of hoopla about it, but maybe I've just been under a rock somewhere. Apparently, it HAS happened, but not in a long time:
It did happen in 1968? Guess that's a long time ago to remember. Seems they've been in this fragmented start day forever now. In fact I remember a few years ago, we ('Stros) had our first game two days after the offical open. Was wierd seeing a team at 2-0, and us at 0-0.
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@Bigun
@catfish1957
@GrouchoTex
And other Houstonians:
I've always watched the games on Comcast 639 (ATTSW). I've seen where that network was going into bankruptcy but that the Astros and the Rockets were negotiating a plan to purchase it. I haven't seen an update on that, and tonight's game isn't showing up on the directory. I'm in a panic that I won't have access to the games this year.
I don't do streaming, so that's out. No smart TV, just an old flat screen from about 2009. Not going to be able to spend extra money each month for access to the games. Am I out of luck? Are y'all able to watch* the games? I've waited a long time for opening day. Now I'm wondering if it's the worst day. :shrug:
*I know one of you swore off the games (never can remember which one), so feel free to ignore my question. Unless you have an answer for me.
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@Bigun
@catfish1957
@GrouchoTex
And other Houstonians:
I've always watched the games on Comcast 639 (ATTSW). I've seen where that network was going into bankruptcy but that the Astros and the Rockets were negotiating a plan to purchase it. I haven't seen an update on that, and tonight's game isn't showing up on the directory. I'm in a panic that I won't have access to the games this year.
I don't do streaming, so that's out. No smart TV, just an old flat screen from about 2009. Not going to be able to spend extra money each month for access to the games. Am I out of luck? Are y'all able to watch* the games? I've waited a long time for opening day. Now I'm wondering if it's the worst day. :shrug:
*I know one of you swore off the games (never can remember which one), so feel free to ignore my question. Unless you have an answer for me.
Can't vouch for the accuracy, but this site says tonight''s game will be on ESPN which is sometimes why it precludes other local or regional programming. But I'm betting it gets blacked out in the Houston area (I doubt we'll see a sell out during regular season), so I am guessing MLB TV / .com might be the only source.
https://www.si.com/tv/mlb/2023/03/30/houston-astros-chicago-white-sox-mlb-how-to-watch-online-live-stream-free (https://www.si.com/tv/mlb/2023/03/30/houston-astros-chicago-white-sox-mlb-how-to-watch-online-live-stream-free)
I am not as a big of a watcher as I used to. In fact prior to the playoffs last year, I doubt I watched more than 10 Astros games all season. Pretty much sticking to box scores and game descriptions for details.
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My TV schedule shows the Astros game on ESPN, digital channel 633 starting at 6pm. I want to see a bit of the pregame stuff, but it looks like ESPN won't be covering that.
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Astros games to continue on AT&T SportsNet Southwest as talks to transfer ownership continue
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/texas-sports-nation/astros/article/astros-games-to-continue-att-sportsnet-southwest-17867326.php
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Baseball, A game that I dearly loved, is now dead to me.
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Thanks, y'all. I did find it. I'm bummed that they're not covering the pregame stuff. Also, I'll be bummed without TK, Blummer and Julia. I see where they are going back to ATTSW on the subsequent games. Then all will be right with the world.
Thanks for the article, LadyLiberty.
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Marriage proposal at Dodger Stadium: https://twitter.com/Mazeaveli/status/1641664948614074369
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Surprised to find that Ohtani's 10 K's went for naught last night, as the Angels fall to the A's, 2-1.
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So... what are people's thoughts on the whole pitch-clock thing?
My social media feeds are filled with stories on it (thanks, The Algorithm) and how much it's shortened up the games. I haven't had a chance to see too many games yet (been listening on the radio though).
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So... what are people's thoughts on the whole pitch-clock thing?
More Communist bullshit destroying the foundation of America.
My social media feeds are filled with stories on it (thanks, The Algorithm) and how much it's shortened up the games.
Shorter games, yet the same number of commercials. Go figure. If they want to shorten games, get rid of the commercials. When at the ballpark, it is clear to the fans when the games are televised. The breaks between half-innings are annoyingly long when a game is being televised.
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Surprised no one commented on TB's record tying 13-0 start.
Impressed with the level of young talent they have, and their upside potential. Reminds me a lot of my Astros about 8 years ago. The AL-C better not let them get too far ahead, or they'll have a quite a hill to climb come late summer.
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Surprised no one commented on TB's record tying 13-0 start.
Impressed with the level of young talent they have, and their upside potential. Reminds me a lot of my Astros about 8 years ago. The AL-C better not let them get too far ahead, or they'll have a quite a hill to climb come late summer.
I remember Sparky Anderson's Detroit Tigers getting off to a ridiculous start one year. Got to 35-5 (1984)
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Surprised no one commented on TB's record tying 13-0 start.
Impressed with the level of young talent they have, and their upside potential. Reminds me a lot of my Astros about 8 years ago. The AL-C better not let them get too far ahead, or they'll have a quite a hill to climb come late summer.
@catfish1957
I was waiting until someone shut them out on their own turf. Guess what! wink777
Recap*
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dR2O34EjCM
*Sans Altuve, Alvarez, Brantley
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@catfish1957
I was waiting until someone shut them out on their own turf. Guess what! wink777
Recap*
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dR2O34EjCM
*Sans Altuve, Alvarez, Brantley
Or a full season of Verlander.
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@catfish1957
I was waiting until someone shut them out on their own turf. Guess what! wink777
Recap*
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dR2O34EjCM
*Sans Altuve, Alvarez, Brantley
Garcia was impressive on the mound last night, too.
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(https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/344361649_791413052231289_2706684542633895022_n.jpg?_nc_cat=1&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=8bfeb9&_nc_ohc=9Hkx7yRVGrAAX9Dl0Sy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARIHouKVpF0p85yyAz0F_ogW4USjzUUMxEFNK5HRuBtg&oe=6459A238)
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(https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/344855000_1425825808162306_1104463148967537334_n.jpg?_nc_cat=1&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=8bfeb9&_nc_ohc=1G7-YHL5kVoAX9n7m78&_nc_oc=AQkZ7w-LtSW1qoD5nIpbg9-JVe-RMU3Td_mq02rJdgrumlGBdhjg-FDSyyYhplCyOdA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDu11iGzcr-dVzARdwPlITjgx8hy7F2cWDHafTFanI95g&oe=645CA007)
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(https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/344855000_1425825808162306_1104463148967537334_n.jpg?_nc_cat=1&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=8bfeb9&_nc_ohc=1G7-YHL5kVoAX9n7m78&_nc_oc=AQkZ7w-LtSW1qoD5nIpbg9-JVe-RMU3Td_mq02rJdgrumlGBdhjg-FDSyyYhplCyOdA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDu11iGzcr-dVzARdwPlITjgx8hy7F2cWDHafTFanI95g&oe=645CA007)
Nice! :rolling:
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Nice! :rolling:
Honestly, I didn't even know that MJ was scrubbed from MLB drug testing. Guess I wasn't paying attention.
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Honestly, I didn't even know that MJ was scrubbed from MLB drug testing. Guess I wasn't paying attention.
Yes, in 2019. But that was just poking fun at Bellinger always looking like he's stoned. (See the fine print in the meme.)
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Yes, in 2019. But that was just poking fun at Bellinger always looking like he's stoned. (See the fine print in the meme.)
My Tigers are in second place, how did that happen?
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We watched the $74 million Rays beat the $279 million Yankees last weekend. :pop41:
At first I wondered why our crowd booed so vociferously whenever Aaron Hicks came to the plate. Turns out it was the Yankee fans along the third base line. From upstairs it sounded like the whole stadium. Hopefully the NYC refugees will help us fund a new place. We have another series with them in August.
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Have already asked two of my sons, they both came up with the same opinion...different than mine. LOL!
Figured I could get some agreement by the 'experts' here on the forum.
CASE: THE MLB DRAFT...live right now on ESPN and MLB.
Turned it on as the ROYALS were "on the clock". Their #1 pick...#8 overall.
They chose a 6-1, 200lb. two way catcher...age 18. Fresh out of high school and COMMITTED to LSU, a perennial "FINAL FOUR" contender in college baseball.
It's my understanding that a draft pick is only good for one year...you only have the player locked up for a year with no guarantee he'll give up an education at Louisiana State University, where he can now make $$$ as a "Top Ten Pick"!
Would you all counsel your son to forego attending LSU, to whom you've committed...in order to enter the Kansas City Royals Farm System?
I understand everybody is looking for the next Bryce Harper or Juan Soto, but throwing away a 1st round pick among all those College World Series teams?
...scratching my head.
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Have already asked two of my sons, they both came up with the same opinion...different than mine. LOL!
Figured I could get some agreement by the 'experts' here on the forum.
CASE: THE MLB DRAFT...live right now on ESPN and MLB.
Turned it on as the ROYALS were "on the clock". Their #1 pick...#8 overall.
They chose a 6-1, 200lb. two way catcher...age 18. Fresh out of high school and COMMITTED to LSU, a perennial "FINAL FOUR" contender in college baseball.
It's my understanding that a draft pick is only good for one year...you only have the player locked up for a year with no guarantee he'll give up an education at Louisiana State University, where he can now make $$$ as a "Top Ten Pick"!
Would you all counsel your son to forego attending LSU, to whom you've committed...in order to enter the Kansas City Royals Farm System?
I understand everybody is looking for the next Bryce Harper or Juan Soto, but throwing away a 1st round pick among all those College World Series teams?
...scratching my head.
I watched a similar thing unfold years ago when I was coaching American Legion ball. One of our players was drafted right out of HS by the Reds, his dad talked him into turning that down and honoring his commitment to play college ball at a major Texas school. All American as a freekin freshman and sophomore sometime before his junior season the kid got badly hurt playing intramural football. Never played an inning of pro ball. I know what I would tell your guy @DCPatriot
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I watched a similar thing unfold years ago when I was coaching American Legion ball. One of our players was drafted right out of HS by the Reds, his dad talked him into turning that down and honoring his commitment to play college ball at a major Texas school. All American as a freekin freshman and sophomore sometime before his junior season the kid got badly hurt playing intramural football. Never played an inning of pro ball. I know what I would tell your guy @DCPatriot
@Bigun Was thinking of you when I posted that...should have pinged you. LOL!
:beer: That's my take, too! Plus, baseball contracts are 'guaranteed'
Ask Stephen Strasburg. happy77
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@Bigun Was thinking of you when I posted that...should have pinged you. LOL!
:beer: That's my take, too! Plus, baseball contracts are 'guaranteed'
Ask Stephen Strasburg. happy77
I started to just post something my uncle and hunting buddy told me many times @DCPatriot
"A bird in hand is worth ten in the bush!"
He was right!
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Turned it on as the ROYALS were "on the clock". Their #1 pick...#8 overall.
They chose a 6-1, 200lb. two way catcher...age 18. Fresh out of high school and COMMITTED to LSU, a perennial "FINAL FOUR" contender in college baseball.
It's my understanding that a draft pick is only good for one year...you only have the player locked up for a year with no guarantee he'll give up an education at Louisiana State University, where he can now make $$$ as a "Top Ten Pick"!
I had thought a drafted player was locked up for two years, but I could easily be wrong about that. I remember when Josh Booty got drafted even though he was committed to go to LSU. But for Booty, he was a two-sport athlete. So he took the baseball money and after a few years washed out in Double-A, then went back to LSU to be the starting QB on the football team.
Anyhoo, if this #8 pick catcher is serious about playing ball professionally, then he needs to leverage his LSU scholarship for the biggest signing bonus he can get, and then tell LSU he now has his own tuition money and won't be playing baseball there. He will learn much more playing A-ball in two years than he would ever learn playing in college. And he will have a sooner separation from the cursed aluminum bat.
By age 23, he could be dominating Double-A, ready for a callup to the show. But after four years of college, it will take him at least another three years to reach that same level.
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I had thought a drafted player was locked up for two years, but I could easily be wrong about that. I remember when Josh Booty got drafted even though he was committed to go to LSU. But for Booty, he was a two-sport athlete. So he took the baseball money and after a few years washed out in Double-A, then went back to LSU to be the starting QB on the football team.
Anyhoo, if this #8 pick catcher is serious about playing ball professionally, then he needs to leverage his LSU scholarship for the biggest signing bonus he can get, and then tell LSU he now has his own tuition money and won't be playing baseball there. He will learn much more playing A-ball in two years than he would ever learn playing in college. And he will have a sooner separation from the cursed aluminum bat.
By age 23, he could be dominating Double-A, ready for a callup to the show. But after four years of college, it will take him at least another three years to reach that same level.
Thanks, @Hoodat
This particular kid was the Texas "GATORADE PLAYER OF THE YEAR"...seems they're all going for the next Shohei Ohtani. You also may be right about the 2 year lock-in/
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Schoenfield: {ESPN} https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/37985650/2023-mlb-draft-day-1-winners-losers-top-prospects-available (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/37985650/2023-mlb-draft-day-1-winners-losers-top-prospects-available)
As for my least favorite, hard to believe, but it's the Kansas City Royals. Taking a prep catcher in the top 10? No, thank you. Blake Mitchell is the first one taken that high since Kyle Skipworth in 2008. Never heard of Skipworth? That's because he never reached the majors. There's a reason teams rarely select high school catchers that high anymore: History says most of them don't pan out. No matter the scouting grades, it's an extremely risky selection.
@Bigun @Hoodat :pondering: :laugh:
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If the kid can hit, then he won't be a catcher for long. The best value of a catcher is leading the defense and calling pitches.
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If the kid can hit, then he won't be a catcher for long. The best value of a catcher is leading the defense and calling pitches.
Sean Murphy would like a word.
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Such high hopes for my Baltimore Orioles (although I admit I couldn't write out the starting lineup or position roster)
Coming out of the Break, sweeping the Marlins.
The O's are the hottest team in MLB right now...until they got embarrassed by the L.A. Dodgers...in Camden Yards!!
Was almost ready to go to one of these games. Saved $150 and a case of heartburn.
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Such high hopes for my Baltimore Orioles (although I admit I couldn't write out the starting lineup or position roster)
Coming out of the Break, sweeping the Marlins.
The O's are the hottest team in MLB right now...until they got embarrassed by the L.A. Dodgers...in Camden Yards!!
Was almost ready to go to one of these games. Saved $150 and a case of heartburn.
How many teams do you root for? Weren't you all in for the Nationals before the Orioles?
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How many teams do you root for? Weren't you all in for the Nationals before the Orioles?
That's the great thing about AL and NL. You can have a team in each league and (at least historically) you don't have to pick and choose until the World Series.
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Sean Murphy would like a word.
I seem to recall another Murphy who started out as a catcher.
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I seem to recall another Murphy who started out as a catcher.
:beer:
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That's the great thing about AL and NL. You can have a team in each league and (at least historically) you don't have to pick and choose until the World Series.
I get your point. I can only invest my heart, energy and focus in one team at a time.
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Verlander is back in an Astros uni. This is as it should be.
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Home run off a spectator's, um, body.
https://twitter.com/SteveInmanUIC/status/1686750769230565376
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Verlander is back in an Astros uni. This is as it should be.
At a loss of their best prosepect though, who had the tag potential "perennial all star" pinned to him.
Also add the fact that Verlander in his older age has almost consistently faded by season's end each of the past 5 seasons he's played in?
Didn't like this move at all.
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Home run off a spectator's, um, body.
https://twitter.com/SteveInmanUIC/status/1686750769230565376
It's a grand slam!
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At a loss of their best prosepect though, who had the tag potential "perennial all star" pinned to him.
Also add the fact that Verlander in his older age has almost consistently faded by season's end each of the past 5 seasons he's played in?
Didn't like this move at all.
@catfish1957
What, if any, remedies would you have addressed in the trade for the things that ail us right now?
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@catfish1957
What, if any, remedies would you have addressed in the trade for the things that ail us right now?
Get everyone healthy and make the run with bad ass team you already have. stRangers are new to pennant races of late, and I am guessing they will fold come September.
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At a loss of their best prosepect though, who had the tag potential "perennial all star" pinned to him.
Also add the fact that Verlander in his older age has almost consistently faded by season's end each of the past 5 seasons he's played in?
Didn't like this move at all.
Supposedly the Mets ate the bulk of his (absurd) salary. The team benefits as long as they do not use him as a workhorse. Most prospects flame out - huge gamble there - but few will complain if the Astros get 2 more trophies.
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I guess no hitters while facing the minimum number of batters thrown by lesser known pitchers are no longer notable these days.
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I guess no hitters while facing the minimum number of batters thrown by lesser known pitchers are no longer notable these days.
It was a "Maddux" and it was beautiful! What a fantastic accomplishment for that young man.
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It was a "Maddux" and it was beautiful! What a fantastic accomplishment for that young man.
One walk away from a perfect game and not a mention of it here until I brought it up three days after it happened. **nononono*
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One walk away from a perfect game and not a mention of it here until I brought it up three days after it happened. **nononono*
Yeah, this thread is pretty much dead these days. :shrug:
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Get everyone healthy and make the run with bad ass team you already have. stRangers are new to pennant races of late, and I am guessing they will fold come September.
@catfish1957
So, basically wishin' and hopin', eh? Let me guess. Were you one of the 3%? ****slapping It's okay. You're a neighbor, so I'll always have a soft heart for you. :beer:
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I guess no hitters while facing the minimum number of batters thrown by lesser known pitchers are no longer notable these days.
@Bigun
It's notable to me, but after crowing about the Verlander trade, I thought my mentioning it might be over the line. Don't want anyone to think this Texan brags too much. wink777
Thanks for bringing it up, neighbor. It was an amazing day to be an Astros fan! I was elated for Framber. What a contrast between that performance and his struggles of late. I sincerely hope we have him back as the pitcher we know as well as Javier. If everyone is able to figure out what ails them, it's not impossible for us to take another title. One thing I do NOT want to do is lose the division to that gang up there in North Texas.
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@catfish1957
So, basically wishin' and hopin', eh? Let me guess. Were you one of the 3%? ****slapping It's okay. You're a neighbor, so I'll always have a soft heart for you. :beer:
@AllThatJazzZ
Maybe I have a different perspective in that I have been a fan of the team since age 7 (1965) and have vivid memories of the team being inept and not competitive. I really don't want to throw the dice and have to go through another half decade of losing 90-100 games.
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@Bigun
It's notable to me, but after crowing about the Verlander trade, I thought my mentioning it might be over the line. Don't want anyone to think this Texan brags too much. wink777
Thanks for bringing it up, neighbor. It was an amazing day to be an Astros fan! I was elated for Framber. What a contrast between that performance and his struggles of late. I sincerely hope we have him back as the pitcher we know as well as Javier. If everyone is able to figure out what ails them, it's not impossible for us to take another title. One thing I do NOT want to do is lose the division to that gang up there in North Texas.
Javi's not back yet. **nononono*
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Yikes!
The Tampa Bay Devil Rays...All Star FRANCO removed from lineup...for social media posts.
Just found out that he is being accused of having a relationship with a FOURTEEN (14) year old girl.
THIS on the heels of them shutting down their ACE for the rest of the season.
THIS as the Baltimore Orioles go up 3 games (4 in the 'lost' column)
https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mlb/news/rays-wander-franco-social-media-allegations-mlb-investigation/edeky1nmlscuihspjje8roqc (https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mlb/news/rays-wander-franco-social-media-allegations-mlb-investigation/edeky1nmlscuihspjje8roqc)
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Yikes!
The Tampa Bay Devil Rays...All Star FRANCO removed from lineup...for social media posts.
Just found out that he is being accused of having a relationship with a FOURTEEN (14) year old girl.
THIS on the heels of them shutting down their ACE for the rest of the season.
THIS as the Baltimore Orioles go up 3 games (4 in the 'lost' column)
https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mlb/news/rays-wander-franco-social-media-allegations-mlb-investigation/edeky1nmlscuihspjje8roqc (https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mlb/news/rays-wander-franco-social-media-allegations-mlb-investigation/edeky1nmlscuihspjje8roqc)
Yikes is right.
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Why a 14 year old, I will never understand. These sports pros have no shortage of women, many beautiful, vying for their attention. Have to be sick and depraved.
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(https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/367707757_804351661484975_8883157581935620746_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=7f8c78&_nc_ohc=STRwz5yUc7kAX82RObU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCIWa27CacSwf4tnvRslGoA6riXB87bE57THAGX-1p1bw&oe=64E0B17E)
I had fun watching them. :laugh:
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Why a 14 year old, I will never understand. These sports pros have no shortage of women, many beautiful, vying for their attention. Have to be sick and depraved.
Hey, she had the body of an 11-year-old.
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Shohei. 8888crybaby
The news was devastating, heartbreaking, leaving the baseball world cursing to the heavens.
The greatest show on earth was cruelly ripped away from us in a late night Los Angeles Angels press conference.
Instead of having a chance for one last celebration this season, one last ovation to show our appreciation, we’re left with the numbing news that Shohei Ohtani’s historic two-way season is over.
Ohtani, who gave his heart, soul and now his arm to the Angels, no longer will be able to pitch again this season.
He was informed Wednesday that he has a torn UCL in his right elbow, which could require Tommy John elbow surgery, ending his 2023 season on the mound, and perhaps creating a seismic shift in his future.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2023/08/24/angels-shohei-ohtani-ucl-injury-out-for-season-free-agency/70666519007/ (https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2023/08/24/angels-shohei-ohtani-ucl-injury-out-for-season-free-agency/70666519007/)
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Shohei. 8888crybaby
That truly sucks @Polly Ticks baseball can be really cruel at times.
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That truly sucks @Polly Ticks baseball can be really cruel at times.
And to think that he was on the trading block before the deadline. Some team dodged a bullet.
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And to think that he was on the trading block before the deadline. Some team dodged a bullet.
He's a free agent at the end of this season. He's not going to get nearly as much, obviously ... but I still wouldn't be mad if my team were willing to take that risk for a reasonable amount. Even if he never pitches again, he's a heck of a slugger. He's a huge crowd favorite, too.
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Red Sox 17
Astros 1
:laugh:
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Red Sox 17
Astros 1
:laugh:
I changed the channel and watched Tijuana, Mexico vs Curacao in the Little League World Series. Great game! Curacao will play Taipei for the international title.
I'm pulling for Texas (the kids live about 15 miles from me in Needville, pop. 3000). One more win against the winner of the West (El Segundo, CA) vs Northwest (Seattle) --both of which they have already beat in the tournament -- to get the US title and they will play in the finals.
Yesterday's game (Needville, TX vs Seattle) went into overtime (9 innings) tied at 0-0. Needville finally scored in the top of the 9th and held Seattle at bay to end the game. Check out the final play by the shortstop (skip to 11:30): https://twitter.com/comlabman/status/1694787457131094128
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@LadyLiberty
That is awesome! Thanks for sharing! happy77
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Red Sox 17
Astros 1
:laugh:
Piss up a rope.
Watched to the end so I could witness the dawning of a new career in pitching by Martin Maldonado. It was a hot mess, but the fans made the best of the moment, rooting for Maldy in the top of the 9th before leaving the ball park.
Tomorrow's another day. Maybe next year, Dusty will be gone.
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Shohei. 8888crybaby
Such a heartbreaking development.
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Piss up a rope.
Watched to the end so I could witness the dawning of a new career in pitching by Martin Maldonado. It was a hot mess, but the fans made the best of the moment, rooting for Maldy in the top of the 9th before leaving the ball park.
Tomorrow's another day. Maybe next year, Dusty will be gone.
While it's true I'm still vexed that the ASTROS cheating essentially went unpunished internally in MLB, my post was coming more from an ORIOLES fan.
And to see these young guys play together like this is very rewarding. With a bargain basement payroll.
Even more is to see the Yankees buried in the basement not being able to buy a 'win'.
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Shohei. 8888crybaby
Strasburg 2.0.
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Strasburg 2.0.
Speaking of which ...
2019 World Series MVP Strasburg plans to retire (source)
Stephen Strasburg, MVP of the 2019 World Series, is planning to retire from baseball, a source told MLB.com's Mark Feinsand on Thursday. The news was first reported by The Washington Post. The Nationals have a press conference tentatively scheduled for Sept. 9, according to The Post. The Nationals have not confirmed the report.
[...]
Strasburg signed a seven-year, $245 million deal with the Nationals after that World Series-winning season, at the time breaking the record for the highest-value contract for a pitcher. Since putting pen to paper on that deal, Strasburg pitched only 31 1/3 innings.
https://www.mlb.com/news/stephen-strasburg-retirement-nationals (https://www.mlb.com/news/stephen-strasburg-retirement-nationals)
~$7.82 million per inning. Not too shabby.
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While it's true I'm still vexed that the ASTROS cheating essentially went unpunished internally in MLB, my post was coming more from an ORIOLES fan.
And to see these young guys play together like this is very rewarding. With a bargain basement payroll.
Even more is to see the Yankees buried in the basement not being able to buy a 'win'.
Orioles fan? I thought you were a Nat's fan. Nevermind, I guess you are a cheap bandwaggoner huh?
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Orioles fan? I thought you were a Nat's fan. Nevermind, I guess you are a cheap bandwaggoner huh?
@catfish1957
LOL!
Come on, man!
EVERYONE is talking about the ORIOLES. A remarkable achievement for a team which lost 110 games two seasons ago.
I'm like a little kid...got their starting lineup and position players down.
Then I see they're essentially just kids themselves...all playing for one another first...THEN the fans!
Their record thus far for hitting with RISP is supernatural. The line keeps moving.
Hoping that their closer's injury isn't season-ending.
I just hope the O's don't go after any of the current free agent superstars who will be looking to grab on for a chance at a World Series ring.
Not even Aaron Judge!
....okay, maybe Aaron Judge! :laugh:
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@catfish1957
Not even Aaron Judge!
....okay, maybe Aaron Judge! :laugh:
:laugh: :beer:
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@catfish1957
LOL!
Come on, man!
EVERYONE is talking about the ORIOLES. A remarkable achievement for a team which lost 110 games two seasons ago.
Even though I have and always be an Astros "only" fan, (since 1965) I am enjoying the rise of the O's at the expense of the Bosox and Stankees.
And I have to admit, I really did like those O's teams in the late '60's and early '70's that had the some of the greatest contingents of pitchers in MLB history, plus have the D and sticks the Robinsons, Boog, Belanger, et. al.
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Even though I have and always be an Astros "only" fan, (since 1965) I am enjoying the rise of the O's at the expense of the Bosox and Stankees.
And I have to admit, I really did like those O's teams in the late '60's and early '70's that had the some of the greatest contingents of pitchers in MLB history, plus have the D and sticks the Robinsons, Boog, Belanger, et. al.
Same here, @catfish1957
Skinny Mark Belanger...aka "The Blade" at shortstop and Brooks Robinson at 3rd...the best left side infield in baseball during that 'era'.
I always thought Cal Ripken, Jr at shortstop ruined the O's for generations. It seeded the thought process that a power hitting SS was the "new" thing.
They went thru something like 26 different 3rd basemen during Cal's Streak...total bullshit.
His replacement, Mike Bordick .236/636 OPS was a downgrade offensively, but ends up in the Orioles' HOF...being a better defensive player than Ripken.
The O's run differential tells me that losing Bautista for the 9th inning could be 'fatal'. Their games hereon are lengthened without him.
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Same here, @catfish1957
Skinny Mark Belanger...aka "The Blade" at shortstop and Brooks Robinson at 3rd...the best left side infield in baseball during that 'era'.
I always thought Cal Ripken, Jr at shortstop ruined the O's for generations. It seeded the thought process that a power hitting SS was the "new" thing.
They went thru something like 26 different 3rd basemen during Cal's Streak...total bullshit.
His replacement, Mike Bordick .236/636 OPS was a downgrade offensively, but ends up in the Orioles' HOF...being a better defensive player than Ripken.
The O's run differential tells me that losing Bautista for the 9th inning could be 'fatal'. Their games hereon are lengthened without him.
Good points. What should floor the youngsters today, is the fact despite the advent of all the improved athletism of players in general. Brooks Robinson, IMO is still the greatest defensive 3rd baseman in MLB history. Yeah, he gets the accolades of the WS clinic he provided, but average Joe fan doesn't realize tht Brooks did this day in day out during the regular season. To this day Robinson is one of my favorite non-Astros ever.
Heck I understand that he even turned some switch hitters around during the day, because they knew that anything on the ground on the left side, (including Belanger) would be sccoped for an out.
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4zP3EXAbsE
Another fine accomplishment by my favorite athlete.
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Another fine accomplishment by my favorite athlete.
Always fun to see someone hit for the cycle.
Meanwhile:
Acuña steals 60th base, eyes creating his own special club
DENVER -- Ronald Acuña Jr. moved a step away from history as he was serenaded with MVP chants while helping the Braves roll to a 14-4 win over the Rockies on Monday night at Coors Field.
Acuña hit his 29th homer in the fifth inning, stole his 60th base in the seventh and then increased his MLB-leading stolen-base total to 61 in the eighth inning. He now stands as one of four players to hit 20-plus homers and steal 60-plus bases in the same season.
[...]
With one more home run, Acuña will become the first player in AL/NL history to record 30 steals and 60 stolen bases in the same season.
https://www.mlb.com/news/ronald-acuna-jr-historic-homer-stolen-base-season (https://www.mlb.com/news/ronald-acuna-jr-historic-homer-stolen-base-season)
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YIKES!!
Josh Donaldson cut by the Yankees this afternoon.
Hard to explain his implosion at age 37...given the advances made in training, etc.. Has to be physical, because if you can't get up playing for the Yankees, you're done!
Lucas Giolito, among 5 players put on waivers by the Angels...
I'd look for some contending team to grab Giolito and convert him into a reliever that only needs to get through an order once. :laugh:
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4zP3EXAbsE
Another fine accomplishment by my favorite athlete.
Can we put the Brewers back in the AL now and bring the Strohs back home to the NL?
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Can we put the Brewers back in the AL now and bring the Strohs back home to the NL?
@Hoodat
Why?
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Because I believe in tradition. I believe in the sanctity of the National League. I believe in pitching inside when the batter crowds the place. I believe that defense matters. I believe in right fielders with cannon arms. And I oppose the designated hitter with every fiber of my being. The two leagues should never intermingle until the World Series.
The Astros were brought in as a NL team. I grew up following the old NL West with the Astros, Reds, Braves, Dodgers, Padres, and Giants. My Braves would finish 40 games out of first place, but Phil Niekro would lead the league in IP, Ks, CGs, and Shutouts. I remember giants like J R Richard and Joaquin Andujar bringing respectability to Houston, battling the hated Reds and Dodgers.
The National League should not be a home for the old Seattle Pilots. They are an AL spinoff, and should be returned pronto.
And besides, the American League is gay.
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Can you really call it a club if you're the only guy in it? :pondering:
What a day! Acuña gets married, then creates 30-60 club with grand slam
Slugger's historic night helps Braves hold on in opener vs. Dodgers
Mark Bowman
LOS ANGELES -- Ronald Acuña Jr. becoming the first member of the 30-60 club didn’t sneak up on anybody. But the Braves' superstar getting married the same day he realized this great achievement certainly did.
“I didn’t mention anything to anyone,” Acuña said through an interpreter. “It was kind of like a surprise.”
[...]
Acuña’s second-inning grand slam made him the first player in AL/NL history to record 30-plus homers and 60-plus steals in a season, just two days after he stole two bases to join the 20-60 club.
https://www.mlb.com/news/ronald-acuna-jr-first-player-with-30-homers-60-steals (https://www.mlb.com/news/ronald-acuna-jr-first-player-with-30-homers-60-steals)
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Can you really call it a club if you're the only guy in it? :pondering:
LOL! Touche'!
The basic "club" was 30HR/30SB
Then, some hyper-active guy stole 50 bases.
I think Ohtani could join the 30/60 club if he play a field position or chipping in in short relief.
He's too young to sit on the bench as a full time DH. Would drive him insane.
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LOL! Touche'!
The basic "club" was 30HR/30SB
Then, some hyper-active guy stole 50 bases.
I think Ohtani could join the 30/60 club if he play a field position or chipping in in short relief.
He's too young to sit on the bench as a full time DH. Would drive him insane.
Since the pitch clock is a boon to base stealers, should this record be given an asterisk?
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Since the pitch clock is a boon to base stealers, should this record be given an asterisk?
@catfish1957
LOL! Great point!
Plus, they put on "King Kong" oven mitts! And the bases are BIGGER!
Definitely, an asterisk! :beer:
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LOL! Touche'!
The basic "club" was 30HR/30SB
Then, some hyper-active guy stole 50 bases.
I think Ohtani could join the 30/60 club if he play a field position or chipping in in short relief.
He's too young to sit on the bench as a full time DH. Would drive him insane.
I bet Rickey Henderson is sleeping better these days. It doesn't look like anyone is going to get more than 130 SB this season.
I'm sure you're right about Ohtani. Regardless of what happens with this latest UCL tear, maybe a 2nd Tommy John, etc., he's a guy that's going to be very valuable even if he never pitches another inning again.
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(https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/373489369_841336624021274_3639075168835645862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=5614bc&_nc_ohc=YOh3aU-rD-EAX97raPZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDGK99QKTg7dn09wgox5QvD8qrAALWelUxunxSk6596Mw&oe=64F81480)
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Houston Astros' Jose Altuve is Only the Third Player Ever to Accomplish This Incredible Feat
Fan Nation by Brady Farkas 9/5/2023
Houston Astros' infielder Jose Altuve is just the third player to ever homer in each of the first three innings of a game.
Houston Astros second baseman has joined an extremely short list in baseball history on Tuesday night - and his game isn't even over yet.
Playing against the Texas Rangers in a critical battle with playoff implications, Altuve has homered in each of the first three innings.
Per Sarah Langs of MLB.com:
JOSE ALTUVE IS THE 3RD PLAYER TO HOMER IN EACH OF THE 1ST 3 INNINGS OF A GAME, JOINING:
8/7/16 Manny Machado
7/2/30 Carl Reynolds
Not only has Altuve homered three times on Tuesday, he also homered twice on Monday, giving five home runs in his last two games.
At the time of this posting, the Astros lead the Rangers 9-0 in the fourth. Houston came into the game tied with the Seattle Mariners for first place in the AL West, with Texas trailing both by one game.
Altuve has battled multiple injuries this year so he's only gotten 266 at-bats, but he's been highly productive as usual. The former MVP is hitting .323 with 15 homers, 39 RBI and 13 stolen bases. He's got a .976 on-base percentage.
One of the best players of the last decade, Altuve is a lifetime .308 hitter with 207 homers and 735 RBI. He's helped the Astros win World Series titles in both 2017 and 2022.
More: https://www.si.com/fannation/mlb/fastball/history/houston-astros-jose-altuve-is-just-the-third-player-in-baseball-history-to-hit-a-home-run-in-each-of-the-first-three-innings (https://www.si.com/fannation/mlb/fastball/history/houston-astros-jose-altuve-is-just-the-third-player-in-baseball-history-to-hit-a-home-run-in-each-of-the-first-three-innings)
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Houston Astros' Jose Altuve is Only the Third Player Ever to Accomplish This Incredible Feat
Fan Nation by Brady Farkas 9/5/2023
Houston Astros' infielder Jose Altuve is just the third player to ever homer in each of the first three innings of a game.
Altuve has battled multiple injuries this year so he's only gotten 266 at-bats, but he's been highly productive as usual. The former MVP is hitting .323 with 15 homers, 39 RBI and 13 stolen bases. He's got a .976 on-base percentage.
One of the best players of the last decade, Altuve is a lifetime .308 hitter with 207 homers and 735 RBI. He's helped the Astros win World Series titles in both 2017 and 2022.
More: https://www.si.com/fannation/mlb/fastball/history/houston-astros-jose-altuve-is-just-the-third-player-in-baseball-history-to-hit-a-home-run-in-each-of-the-first-three-innings (https://www.si.com/fannation/mlb/fastball/history/houston-astros-jose-altuve-is-just-the-third-player-in-baseball-history-to-hit-a-home-run-in-each-of-the-first-three-innings)
@Elderberry
He should be subject to a strip search including an anal exam before each AB.
Probably has a WIFI buzzer up his ass.
Trash cans are so out-of-style these days.
But that said...geez, the ball must look like a beach ball. I noticed about a month ago how he was barreling up on everything that was a strike.
What the mystery/question here should be is: Why are they still pitching to him?
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Houston Astros' Jose Altuve is Only the Third Player Ever to Accomplish This Incredible Feat
Fan Nation by Brady Farkas 9/5/2023
Houston Astros' infielder Jose Altuve is just the third player to ever homer in each of the first three innings of a game.
...
One of the best players of the last decade, Altuve is a lifetime .308 hitter with 207 homers and 735 RBI. He's helped the Astros win World Series titles in both 2017 and 2022.
More: https://www.si.com/fannation/mlb/fastball/history/houston-astros-jose-altuve-is-just-the-third-player-in-baseball-history-to-hit-a-home-run-in-each-of-the-first-three-innings (https://www.si.com/fannation/mlb/fastball/history/houston-astros-jose-altuve-is-just-the-third-player-in-baseball-history-to-hit-a-home-run-in-each-of-the-first-three-innings)
@Elderberry
Great, but let's include a visual to catch the excitement of the feat.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEx1q6gfa14
It's especially sweet because we get to watch the low-IQ accusers go crazy. That's always fun! :yowsa:
What a fun time to be an Astros fan. Whupping up on the Rangers after being swept at home by the lowly Stankees. Just when you think about writing them off... :shrug:
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Jose Altuve is 100% ball player and would have done well in any era. There are damned few like him in the game today.
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Jose Altuve is 100% ball player and would have done well in any era. There are damned few like him in the game today.
@Bigun @AllThatJazzZ @Polly Ticks @Elderberry @catfish1957
He's a cheating snake...in the same league as Jose Molina. {cheating-wise} :laugh:
But Earl...I'd like to present another theory to you.
Watching any night's "QUICK-PITCH" on MLB channel...it 'screams' JUICED BALL!!
Never have I seen so many end-of-the-bat contact making it into the opposite field seats...I call bullsh*t.
WAAAAYYYY too balls are leaving the yard.
And then today on the ESPN site, they call the 2023 season the most exciting ever! :shrug:
One last thing.
There is NOTHING great about seeing a pitch going over the fence/wall...show us the entire AB.
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And then today on the ESPN site, they call the 2023 season the most exciting ever! :shrug:
One last thing.
There is NOTHING great about seeing a pitch going over the fence/wall...show us the entire AB.
Our cable company is currently feuding with Disney/ESPN over fees to carry their content, so we are blacked out of pretty much everything.
9999hair out0000
And yes, I totally agree ... I love watching an entire AB and seeing how it was all put together.
:beer:
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Altuve hit 3 homers before the Ranger's number 7, 8, and 9 batters even got a turn at the plate.
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@Bigun @AllThatJazzZ @Polly Ticks @Elderberry @catfish1957
He's a cheating snake...in the same league as Jose Molina. {cheating-wise} :laugh:
Yeah! Right! Like NO ONE has ever stolen a sign before! (Everybody was doing it, but the Astros got outed because THEY don't play for Northeastern owners!)
But Earl...I'd like to present another theory to you.
Watching any night's "QUICK-PITCH" on MLB channel...it 'screams' JUICED BALL!!
Never have I seen so many end-of-the-bat contact making it into the opposite field seats...I call bullsh*t.
WAAAAYYYY too balls are leaving the yard.
And then today on the ESPN site, they call the 2023 season the most exciting ever! :shrug:
One last thing.
There is NOTHING great about seeing a pitch going over the fence/wall...show us the entire AB.
I agree with all that @DCPatriot the game I loved has been destroyed. Guys who can't hit their weight are everyday leadoff hitters and the PTB are doing everything they can to put pitchers in an even deeper hole.
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Altuve hit 3 homers before the Ranger's number 7, 8, and 9 batters even got a turn at the plate.
Yikes!
Imagine that starter's ERA when he hit the showers. :laugh:
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Wow, what an epic meltdown by the Rangers. But.... who didn't expect it?
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Wow, what an epic meltdown by the Rangers. But.... who didn't expect it?
It's the Rangers, what did you expect. Nobody cares here anyway, since now NFL season is here.
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@catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @Bigun @AllThatJazzZ @Elderberry
It should be noted that if the Baltimore Orioles play .500 ball to run out the schedule (22 games), they will win 100 games.
They are playing .636 ball for the season.
THEY LOST 110 GAMES IN 2021!! :thud:
Beat the Red Sox to continue this unbelievable road trip 11-2!
And ESPN writers give them no shot. Not even honorable mention...the dirty SOBs. :smokin:
Sadly the same with MLB. Nobody has predicted the Orioles in the WS.
This despite probably getting a BYE in the 1st round having the league best W/L record. :smokin:
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@catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @Bigun @AllThatJazzZ @Elderberry
It should be noted that if the Baltimore Orioles play .500 ball to run out the schedule (22 games), they will win 100 games.
They are playing .636 ball for the season.
THEY LOST 110 GAMES IN 2021!! :thud:
I hope they hit that 100-win season. Very exciting team, for sure! Brings to mind that 1991 "Worst to First" season for my favorite team.
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@catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @Bigun @AllThatJazzZ @Elderberry
It should be noted that if the Baltimore Orioles play .500 ball to run out the schedule (22 games), they will win 100 games.
They are playing .636 ball for the season.
THEY LOST 110 GAMES IN 2021!! :thud:
Beat the Red Sox to continue this unbelievable road trip 11-2!
And ESPN writers give them no shot. Not even honorable mention...the dirty SOBs. :smokin:
Sadly the same with MLB. Nobody has predicted the Orioles in the WS.
This despite probably getting a BYE in the 1st round having the league best W/L record. :smokin:
I'll stipulate that I have not seen even so much as one pitch of an Orioles baseball game in at least two years so any comment I make is in that context.
The fact that franchise has turned things around to the degree that they obviously have in two years is remarkable.
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I'll stipulate that I have not seen even so much as one pitch of an Orioles baseball game in at least two years so any comment I make is in that context.
The fact that franchise has turned things around to the degree that they obviously have in two years is remarkable.
I relish the fact we might see the Bosox and Stanks finishing second division for maybe half a decade or so. Toronto hasn't
been no push over either, and looks like a 50/50 chance of nabbing one of the WC spots this year. Decent chance their divison might net 3 playoff teams this year.
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To show my respects:
(https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/42340c81-f944-45e1-9007-08a75ca109eb_1.5f8f507bd5e89df24c270c4dc49196df.jpeg)
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(https://i.redd.it/6jdym2b4e4ob1.png)
:cheerlead: :cheerlead: :cheerlead: :cheerlead: :cheerlead: :cheerlead:
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@Polly Ticks
:beer:
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@Polly Ticks
:beer:
It's going to be a real race with the Orioles to see who ends up with the best record in baseball!
:beer:
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(https://i.redd.it/6jdym2b4e4ob1.png)
:cheerlead: :cheerlead: :cheerlead: :cheerlead: :cheerlead: :cheerlead:
Congrats....
The Bravos might have the best overall lineup to win it all this year. Glad we won't have to meet them.... (at least though the LCS)
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It's going to be a real race with the Orioles to see who ends up with the best record in baseball!
:beer:
The O's have played TWO less games than the RAYS since well before the AS Break.
The RAYS have lost BOTH of those games...thus the differential in the Games Lost column.
This 4 game series in Camden Yards is the most important series since the park was built. The FRIDAY game is already SOLD OUT...but pissed me off to see so many empty seats last night in their 1-0 loss vs, the CARDS.
@Polly Ticks I'm ambivalent about them getting a bye AND gaining homefield advantage.
I'm superstitious... they have a better record playing on the road...and I don't want them sitting on their ass for a week. Gotta keep that rhythm!
And no...I'm not "O'splaining their exit before the ALDS. :laugh:
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Congrats....
The Bravos might have the best overall lineup to win it all this year. Glad we won't have to meet them.... (at least though the LCS)
@catfish1957 Okay...maybe the AL Pennant goes thru Houston, BUT...
Didn't the RAYS recently win a series vs your ASTROS? And didn't SEATTLE just 'sweep' your ass?
Be careful for what you wish. /s
My O's are going to host the ASTROS right after we spank the RAYS! 888high58888
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@catfish1957 Okay...maybe the AL Pennant goes thru Houston, BUT...
Didn't the RAYS recently win a series vs your ASTROS? And didn't SEATTLE just 'sweep' your ass?
Be careful for what you wish. /s
My O's are going to host the ASTROS right after we spank the RAYS! 888high58888
More of a wish. This year I seriously doubt that Astros make it to the LCS. It's been a hell of an off-year, even though they are in 1st (barely)
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(https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/378124330_616674397290212_3463043374138344870_n.jpg?_nc_cat=1&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=5614bc&_nc_ohc=27EU4vNc74YAX9g18fl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC265EGzvO0DniATAN5tRx8kBkVNZBnD88DS7r6XY3N1g&oe=6508CB90)
:silly:
But not really...
What would each of us do if we saw this guy walking toward you and your family?
Is that a "Uni-pod" he's got strapped around his neck...to use as a seat when he's tired?
Are you going to wait to find out? :shrug: :whistle:
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@DCPatriot
Not to minimize this achievement, but this was the first year of a full expansive interleague play schedule
1. Interleague play started in 1997
2. 214-252 inteleague games 1997-2012.
3. 300 games 2013- 2022
4. This year there will be well over 700 games played. In fact, I beleive this is the first year that every team played each other.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interleague_play (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interleague_play)
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@DCPatriot
Not to minimize this achievement, but this was the first year of a full expansive interleague play schedule
1. Interleague play started in 1997
2. 214-252 inteleague games 1997-2012.
3. 300 games 2013- 2022
4. This year there will be well over 700 games played. In fact, I beleive this is the first year that every team played each other.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interleague_play (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interleague_play)
And THAT is THE biggest turd in my bucket! They have flat out ruined a game I once loved!
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@DCPatriot
Not to minimize this achievement, but this was the first year of a full expansive interleague play schedule
1. Interleague play started in 1997
2. 214-252 inteleague games 1997-2012.
3. 300 games 2013- 2022
4. This year there will be well over 700 games played. In fact, I beleive this is the first year that every team played each other.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interleague_play (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interleague_play)
Thanks for elaborating on this, @catfish1957
Realize it had to be an aberration, because in the past, you only played teams in one specific division when crossing into "interleague" play.
Still...it arises out of the fact the Orioles have not been swept in a series all season.
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Still...it arises out of the fact the Orioles have not been swept in a series all season.
Now that is an accomplishment that I bet hasn't been done very often. If I was forced to predict the '23 WS this early on, I'd wager it will be Baltimore v. Atlanta. My 'Stros just don't have the pitching depth this year to go deep.
If this does pan out I'll enjoy watching the heads explode at the MLB Commish Office TV execs too.
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Now that is an accomplishment that I bet hasn't been done very often. If I was forced to predict the '23 WS this early on, I'd wager it will be Baltimore v. Atlanta. My 'Stros just don't have the pitching depth this year to go deep.
If this does pan out I'll enjoy watching the heads explode at the MLB Commish Office TV execs.
So will I! :beer:
Damned O's/Rays Game tonight is only on Apple TV+ or MLB (which I have but is being blacked out...can I say "Blacked"?)
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And THAT is THE biggest turd in my bucket! They have flat out ruined a game I once loved!
Just one of many reasons, here's 10 additional
10. I hate how they've turned MLB stadiums into what looks like commerical pin ball machines.
9. DH
8. Pitch Clock
7. Juiced Balls (and players?) who've turned the game into a cheap version of HR Derby.
6. NBA-ization of playoffs where 40% of all teams makes the post season
5. Teams including mine in the early 2010's who tank for draft pick sequence
4. Recent killing of the September Call-ups, which allow non-playoff team's fans a chance to see prospects.
3. MLB's habit of pigeon holeing smaller market playoff teams into sucky scheduling
2. Periodic Woke Shit, that MLB subjects us too.
And No. 1 and a personal one- I hope Bud Selig burns in hell. Almost lost in baseball history was his extortion of the Astros to switch leagues in return for the owner at the time Drayton McLane to sell the team. This shit was criminal, and I wish it could have gotten the investigative oversite it deserved. Many forget he and his family owned the Brewers, and they benefited greatly by their move to the National League Central. Gone for us were those sterling rivalries with the Cardinals and Cubs.
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Just one of many reasons, here's 10 additional
10. I hate how they've turned MLB stadiums into what looks like commerical pin ball machines.
9. DH
8. Pitch Clock
7. Juiced Balls (and players?) who've turned the game into a cheap version of HR Derby.
6. NBA-ization of playoffs where 40% of all teams makes the post season
5. Teams including mine in the early 2010's who tank for draft pick sequence
4. Recent killing of the September Call-ups, which allow non-playoff team's fans a chance to see prospects.
3. MLB's habit of pigeon holeing smaller market playoff teams into sucky scheduling
2. Periodic Woke Shit, that MLB subjects us too.
And No. 1 and a personal one- I hope Bud Selig burns in hell. Almost lost in baseball history was his extortion of the Astros to switch leagues in return for the owner at the time Drayton McLane to sell the team. This shit was criminal, and I wish it could have gotten the investigative oversite it deserved. Many forget he and his family owned the Brewers, and they benefited greatly by their move to the National League Central. Gone for us were those sterling rivalries with the Cardinals and Cubs.
:yowsa: to all of that and more!
Professional baseball was once composed of two leagues, the teams of which competed against each other for 154 games and the teams in each league with the best record won their league pennant. Those pennant winners went on to play a 7 game series (The World Series). The team that won 4 of those games was the world champion for that year.
Now we have three divisions in each league, a mishmash teams playing a mishmash of a schedule, and a host of players being paid millions of $$$ who should be playing in the bush leagues at best, and we have the audacity to compare the result of that with the way the game was played in the past! I hate ALL of it!
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:yowsa: to all of that and more!
Professional baseball was once composed of two leagues, the teams of which competed against each other for 154 games and the teams in each league with the best record won their league pennant. Those pennant winners went on to play a 7 game series (The World Series). The team that won 4 of those games was the world champion for that year.
Now we have three divisions in each league, a mishmash teams playing a mishmash of a schedule, and a host of players being paid millions of $$$ who should be playing in the bush leagues at best, and we have the audacity to compare the result of that with the way the game was played in the past! I hate ALL of it!
Spot on... Powers that have run baseball the past 50 or so yearshave sold out for $. To hell with 'em.
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Just one of many reasons, here's 10 additional
10. I hate how they've turned MLB stadiums into what looks like commerical pin ball machines.
9. DH
8. Pitch Clock
7. Juiced Balls (and players?) who've turned the game into a cheap version of HR Derby.
6. NBA-ization of playoffs where 40% of all teams makes the post season
5. Teams including mine in the early 2010's who tank for draft pick sequence
4. Recent killing of the September Call-ups, which allow non-playoff team's fans a chance to see prospects.
3. MLB's habit of pigeon holeing smaller market playoff teams into sucky scheduling
2. Periodic Woke Shit, that MLB subjects us too.
And No. 1 and a personal one- I hope Bud Selig burns in hell. Almost lost in baseball history was his extortion of the Astros to switch leagues in return for the owner at the time Drayton McLane to sell the team. This shit was criminal, and I wish it could have gotten the investigative oversite it deserved. Many forget he and his family owned the Brewers, and they benefited greatly by their move to the National League Central. Gone for us were those sterling rivalries with the Cardinals and Cubs.
@Bigun @catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @AllThatJazzZ
Society has changed. My daddy's generation wore ties and fedoras to ballgames. No player would dream of hotdogging or taunting an opponent back then.
The strikezone was top of the letters to the knees. The pitcher's mound was higher, which made the breaking ball much more effective, IMHO.
Today's youth are raised on action video games. Their situational awareness is much more heightened than simple me who was raised on Sky King, and Bugs Bunny cartoons. happy77
I like the pitch clock.
What I don't find appealing is the 190lb ballplayer hitting it on the end of this bat (out of the sweet spot) 425 feet to the OPPOSITE FIELD.
What I don't find appealing is that we don't utilize mechanical balls and strikes.
Last night the last batter in the O's/Rays game was robbed with no only "strike 1", but also the next pitch "strick 2".
...changed the batter's entire approach. Of course, the SOB was throwing it 102mph. :bolt:
The biggest hint that the ball is juiced is when you see Freddie Freeman...at his age, getting 60 doubles.
What kind of bullsh*t is this?? LOL!
Luv talkin' baseball with you guys! :beer:
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@Bigun @catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @AllThatJazzZ
Society has changed. My daddy's generation wore ties and fedoras to ballgames. No player would dream of hotdogging or taunting an opponent back then.
The strikezone was top of the letters to the knees. The pitcher's mound was higher, which made the breaking ball much more effective, IMHO.
Today's youth are raised on action video games. Their situational awareness is much more heightened than simple me who was raised on Sky King, and Bugs Bunny cartoons. happy77
I like the pitch clock.
What I don't find appealing is the 190lb ballplayer hitting it on the end of this bat (out of the sweet spot) 425 feet to the OPPOSITE FIELD.
What I don't find appealing is that we don't utilize mechanical balls and strikes.
Last night the last batter in the O's/Rays game was robbed with no only "strike 1", but also the next pitch "strick 2".
...changed the batter's entire approach. Of course, the SOB was throwing it 102mph. :bolt:
The biggest hint that the ball is juiced is when you see Freddie Freeman...at his age, getting 60 doubles.
What kind of bullsh*t is this?? LOL!
Luv talkin' baseball with you guys! :beer:
Ok, I was with you most of the way there, but you can't be hating on Freddie! I still love that guy, even though his current uniform stinks.
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@Bigun @catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @AllThatJazzZ
Society has changed. My daddy's generation wore ties and fedoras to ballgames. No player would dream of hotdogging or taunting an opponent back then.
The strikezone was top of the letters to the knees. The pitcher's mound was higher, which made the breaking ball much more effective, IMHO.
Today's youth are raised on action video games. Their situational awareness is much more heightened than simple me who was raised on Sky King, and Bugs Bunny cartoons. happy77
I like the pitch clock.
What I don't find appealing is the 190lb ballplayer hitting it on the end of this bat (out of the sweet spot) 425 feet to the OPPOSITE FIELD.
What I don't find appealing is that we don't utilize mechanical balls and strikes.
Last night the last batter in the O's/Rays game was robbed with no only "strike 1", but also the next pitch "strick 2".
...changed the batter's entire approach. Of course, the SOB was throwing it 102mph. :bolt:
The biggest hint that the ball is juiced is when you see Freddie Freeman...at his age, getting 60 doubles.
What kind of bullsh*t is this?? LOL!
Luv talkin' baseball with you guys! :beer:
You are perfectly entitled to like whatever you wish @DCPatriot but I agree with @catfish1957 100% on this! To hell with ALL of it!
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@Bigun @catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @AllThatJazzZ
Society has changed. My daddy's generation wore ties and fedoras to ballgames. No player would dream of hotdogging or taunting an opponent back then.
The strikezone was top of the letters to the knees. The pitcher's mound was higher, which made the breaking ball much more effective, IMHO.
Today's youth are raised on action video games. Their situational awareness is much more heightened than simple me who was raised on Sky King, and Bugs Bunny cartoons. happy77
I like the pitch clock.
What I don't find appealing is the 190lb ballplayer hitting it on the end of this bat (out of the sweet spot) 425 feet to the OPPOSITE FIELD.
What I don't find appealing is that we don't utilize mechanical balls and strikes.
Last night the last batter in the O's/Rays game was robbed with no only "strike 1", but also the next pitch "strick 2".
...changed the batter's entire approach. Of course, the SOB was throwing it 102mph. :bolt:
The biggest hint that the ball is juiced is when you see Freddie Freeman...at his age, getting 60 doubles.
What kind of bullsh*t is this?? LOL!
Luv talkin' baseball with you guys! :beer:
:beer:
Find a 100 fans, and you will hear a 100 different versions of what is right or wrong about baseball right now. I understand the new obsession with making this game like a video game, but there are still some dinosaurs like me who proudly wear the moniker of "purist"
I understand how the game has to change to compete, but its happening too damned fast for my tastes.
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You are perfectly entitled to like whatever you wish @DCPatriot but I agree with @catfish1957 100% on this! To hell with ALL of it!
@Bigun
You're full of it! :laugh: You're a teddy bear.
Bet I could tie you to a chair for a week of Orioles' games this week (RAYS...then ASTROS) and turn you into a Bird's fan!
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Ok, I was with you most of the way there, but you can't be hating on Freddie! I still love that guy, even though his current uniform stinks.
@Polly Ticks
I'm just jealous. Still reeling from the Orioles' bust of an extension given to Chris Davis...$110M??
Suddenly, he couldn't get around on a fastball.
Yet Freddie is like the EverReady Bunny...he just keeps on going.
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:beer:
I understand how the game has to change to compete, but its happening too damned fast for my tastes.
I don't! Not at all! And I never will understand why what is good and right needs to be adulterated. For what?
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@Bigun
You're full of it! :laugh: You're a teddy bear.
Bet I could tie you to a chair for a week of Orioles' games this week (RAYS...then ASTROS) and turn you into a Bird's fan!
Yeah! Right! And speaking of being full of it, you seem to forget that I once played the game at a time when .200 hitters remained completely unknown to almost everybody.
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I don't! Not at all! And I never will understand why what is good and right needs to be adulterated. For what?
When we were kids, Baseball by far was the most popular sport in the U.S. Now it is No.3, and dropping. I'm with you, in that I hate the changes, but I am afraid if the game doesn't adapt, it won't survive.
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When we were kids, Baseball by far was the most popular sport in the U.S. Now it is No.3, and dropping. I'm with you, in that I hate the changes, but I am afraid if the game doesn't adapt, it won't survive.
There are a host of dying Churches in this country who have adopted the same philosophy. I'll pass!
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Yeah! Right! And speaking of being full of it, you seem to forget that I once played the game at a time when .200 hitters remained completely unknown to almost everybody.
Well back then, old-timer... we only had to watch EIGHT teams in a league. SIXTEEN total.
.200 hitters stuck out like sore thumbs. Thus, Mendoza!
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Well back then, old-timer... we only had to watch EIGHT teams in a league. SIXTEEN total.
.200 hitters stuck out like sore thumbs. Thus, Mendoza!
I'm sorry, but when you look closely at the bottom 2 or 3 player's WAR, of say the 10 worst teams in MLB. Do you think they deserve to be Major Leaguers?
The dilution of talent in the past few decades has been awful.
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I'm sorry, but when you look closely at the bottom 2 or 3 player's WAR, of say the 10 worst teams in MLB. Do you think they deserve to be Major Leaguers?
The dilution of talent in the past few decades has been awful.
:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
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I'm sorry, but when you look closely at the bottom 2 or 3 player's WAR, of say the 10 worst teams in MLB. Do you think they deserve to be Major Leaguers?
The dilution of talent in the past few decades has been awful.
That's my point, @catfish1957
I look at the OPS of the average ballplayer today and think... should be riding pine and not getting 5 ABs a game.
...especially with a belt to knees strikezone.
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Well back then, old-timer... we only had to watch EIGHT teams in a league. SIXTEEN total.
.200 hitters stuck out like sore thumbs. Thus, Mendoza!
Tell me, if you can, exactly what was wrong with that. @DCPatriot
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Tell me, if you can, exactly what was wrong with that. @DCPatriot
@Bigun
Nothing.
Starters today are only expected to throw 100 pitches.
It's because MLB is watered down.
Thank God, the Hispanic and now the Japanese have embraced it...it shall live one.
Now, if I can just get used to Tatis Jr's annoying stutter step approaching 3rd base in his HR trot. :laugh:
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@Bigun
Nothing.
Starters today are only expected to throw 100 pitches.
It's because MLB is watered down.
Thank God, the Hispanic and now the Japanese have embraced it...it shall live one.
Now, if I can just get used to Tatis Jr's annoying stutter step approaching 3rd base in his HR trot. :laugh:
:yowsa: To the point it no longer interests me at all. @DCPatriot
I'd just as soon watch Sam Houston State play McNeese.
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I got to admit back in the day, I was obsessed with the game, and could tell you at moments notice ba.'s , era's, etc. of any Houston player. Even back in the mid 80's I used to make at leat 15-20 games a year. Now, I really don't get into it until the playoffs. Mostly for reasons that we have discussed on this page.
p.s. I haven't been to a game since the early 2010's.
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I like the pitch clock.
The pitch clock is gay.
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The pitch clock is gay.
LOL! Last night I saw a TAMPA RAY step out of the box on a 0-1 count.
O's starter Bradish threw a pitch right down the pipe.
He was NOT happy being 0-2.
But it reminds me of a scene in a movie ...might have been Driving Miss Daisy, but the older person in the backseat suggested that because she was so old, she'd appreciate it if they could get moving.
That's baseball to me watching the old Trey Turner step out of the box after EVERY pitch to adjust his jock, batting gloves and helmet.
I so wished that a pitcher would have tossed a slow curve at this head.
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REAL baseball! I still get goosebumps watching it!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MtnU4yno4o
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LOL! Last night I saw a TAMPA RAY step out of the box on a 0-1 count.
O's starter Bradish threw a pitch right down the pipe.
He was NOT happy being 0-2.
But it reminds me of a scene in a movie ...might have been Driving Miss Daisy, but the older person in the backseat suggested that because she was so old, she'd appreciate it if they could get moving.
That's baseball to me watching the old Trey Turner step out of the box after EVERY pitch to adjust his jock, batting gloves and helmet.
I so wished that a pitcher would have tossed a slow curve at this head.
The one thing that has slowed the game down more than any other factor is television. It is remarkable how much faster a game goes without four-minute commercial breaks between half-innings. That's over an hour of commercials between the first and ninth innings.
I went to a lot of Braves games when I was younger. And it was very noticeable when a game was televised on one of the local networks. There would never be any rushing out to take the field. Never any need for someone to get behind the plate to take the warm-up tosses from the pitcher because the catcher was the second-base runner when the last out was made. The major television networks have ruined the game. And now they want even more commercial time to cram into their 3-hr window by forcing play to move along faster.
You want a pitch clock? How about a commercial clock. Once a team takes the field and the pitcher gets his warmup tosses, commercials end right there, and television coverage comes back online.
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REAL baseball! I still get goosebumps watching it!
I remember sneaking small transistor radios in to middle school to listen to playoff or world series games, which back then were played during the day.
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I remember sneaking small transistor radios in to middle school to listen to playoff or world series games, which back then were played during the day.
I watched the last half of that game in the gym on a small TV that a coach brought in.
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REAL baseball! I still get goosebumps watching it!
h ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MtnU4yno4o
Thanks for that, @Bigun
Last time I watched that was on our 21 inch B&W table TV age 14.
All the fans are wearing white shirts with ties, but then it's a DAY GAME and the 7th game of the World Series. :laugh:
What else I notice is the quick delivery out of the "Stretch Position" of the Pirates pitcher in the 7th inning.
Plus, he was facing the batter same as his "windup" start.
Laughed because I had a Tony Kubek glove in my playing days...to see him on the screen...WOW! :beer:
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Shohei Ohtani's locker emptied out; Angels to explain Saturday
Associated Press
Sep 16, 2023, 07:55 AM ET
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Shohei Ohtani's locker has been mostly cleared out at Angel Stadium, and the Los Angeles Angels declined to say why Friday night.
The two-way superstar missed his 11th consecutive game with an oblique muscle injury Friday night when the Angels lost 11-2 to the Detroit Tigers. Although Ohtani was at the stadium before the game, the soon-to-be free agent's locker was largely empty afterward.
Nearly all the personal items had been removed from his locker and the adjoining empty stall. A fully packed bag with a logo from the 2023 All-Star Game sat in front of his stall where his shoes would normally be, and only a few workout shirts hung on the rack.
Nearly a half-hour after reporters were allowed into the locker room and noticed the absence of Ohtani's possessions, an Angels spokesperson said the team will give more information about the development Saturday.
continued at link: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38411677/shohei-ohtani-locker-emptied-angels-explain-sat (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38411677/shohei-ohtani-locker-emptied-angels-explain-sat)
################################################
(https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1040622710/photo/shohei-ohtani-of-the-los-angeles-angels-of-anaheim-looks-on-during-the-game-against-the-texas.jpg?s=612x612&w=0&k=20&c=V6MF79_fbpKRDZ-Qad7bMr1GisYXY5T0XD4Ps95FSxw=)
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Shohei Ohtani's locker emptied out; Angels to explain Saturday
He was definitely going to be gone at the end of the season in any case.
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He was definitely going to be gone at the end of the season in any case.
Still very bizarre. Ohtani is a class guy, so I am guessing that his recent injuries are more severe than originally thought. I just don't see it could be a falling out.
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Still very bizarre. Ohtani is a class guy, so I am guessing that his recent injuries are more severe than originally thought. I just don't see it could be a falling out.
@catfish1957
Nope...have to disagree! LOL!
His agent got involved. He's potentially, the first BILLION $$$ player in professional sports.
If you're guaranteed to be playing somewhere else next season, why risk any injury to your hitting ability for a team that just publicly threw in the towel on the season.
...then look at Mike Trout. He put himself back on the IL too!
Too much $$$ involved. That's why I teased here a couple years ago that for the money these kids get, I'd 'OWN' their asses for the entire contract period.
No backyard pickup games of hoops...no jet skiing...no skiing of any kind...no loose women...green veggies every meal, etc.. :laugh:
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He was definitely going to be gone at the end of the season in any case.
@Polly Ticks
Yep! IMO, he said, "As a legitimate 2-way player, why risk the remaining value I have, in a free-agent contract year? I've already proven myself as the greatest since Babe Ruth...and Scott Boras said I should "SHUT IT DOWN NOW!!" (like the guy telling the electrical grid guy in "DIE HARD") :laugh:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gO2hwvinFLE
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@Polly Ticks
Yep! IMO, he said, "As a legitimate 2-way player, why risk the remaining value I have, in a free-agent contract year? I've already proven myself as the greatest since Babe Ruth...and Scott Boras said I should "SHUT IT DOWN NOW!!" (like the guy telling the electrical grid guy in "DIE HARD") :laugh:
My exact thoughts. Dizzy Dean is an ancient example of what can happen to a player, just playing through the pain, to the detriment of ruining a career..
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@Polly Ticks
Yep! IMO, he said, "As a legitimate 2-way player, why risk the remaining value I have, in a free-agent contract year? I've already proven myself as the greatest since Babe Ruth...and Scott Boras said I should "SHUT IT DOWN NOW!!" (like the guy telling the electrical grid guy in "DIE HARD") :laugh:
Absolutely right.
But you can't start talking about Die Hard ... it's too early in the year for Christmas movies. wink777
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In this strange year in MLB, looking the standings, 89 or 90, or so wins might buy you the no.2 seed and a bye this year in the AL.
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Orioles win in extra innings to even series with Tampa.
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In this strange year in MLB, looking the standings, 89 or 90, or so wins might buy you the no.2 seed and a bye this year in the AL.
Luckily, the O's split their four game series with the RAYS...now 2 games up in the AL East (4 in the lost column)
Tomorrow they start a 3 game series vs the ASTROS. In Houston.
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Orioles win in extra innings to even series with Tampa.
:beer:
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Congratulations to the Card's Wainright on his 200th W tonight.
This feat has and will become more rare in the modern baseball era.
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Congratulations to the Card's Wainright on his 200th W tonight.
This feat has and will become more rare in the modern baseball era.
What?
WHAT??
No "Congratulations" for the Orioles spanking the Astros last nite? :bolt:
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What?
WHAT??
No "Congratulations" for the Orioles spanking the Astros last nite? :bolt:
Wasn't surprised. If you didn't notice earlier, I was pretty much stating that this Astros team was not going to go deep in the post season.
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Wasn't surprised. If you didn't notice earlier, I was pretty much stating that this Astros team was not going to go deep in the post season.
I know...was just giving you a raspberry. happy77
Saw the betting line before the game...couldn't understand why they had the ASTROS at -185
...until I saw the name "Justin Verlander" :laugh:
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I know...was just giving you a raspberry. happy77
Saw the betting line before the game...couldn't understand why they had the ASTROS at -185
...until I saw the name "Justin Verlander" :laugh:
Wouldn't have mattered even if it was Greg Maddux, when your closer blows a 2 run lead 9th inning lead, when it matters most. If we make it to the LCS, we better hope the ALDS matchup s against Minnesota. I don't think we get by any of the other 5.
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Wouldn't have mattered even if it was Greg Maddux, when your closer blows a 2 run lead 9th inning lead, when it matters most. If we make it to the LCS, we better hope the ALDS matchup s against Minnesota. I don't think we get by any of the other 5.
How can anyone expect anything from a pitching staff composed mostly of washed-up old has beens?
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How can anyone expect anything from a pitching staff composed mostly of washed-up old has beens?
Biggest difference is in the drop off in production of our Latin Contingent. If someway in the beginning of the season had told me that these would be the W's by mid September, I'd figure we'd be in 4th place.
Valdez- 12
Javier- 9
Uriquidy- 2
Garcia- 2
Last year these same 4, won 56, and if wasn't for Hunter Brown, we'd be in 4th.
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Biggest difference is in the drop off in production of our Latin Contingent. If someway in the beginning of the season had told me that these would be the W's by mid September, I'd figure we'd be in 4th place.
Valdez- 12
Javier- 9
Uriquidy- 2
Garcia- 2
Last year these same 4, won 56, and if wasn't for Hunter Brown, we'd be in 4th.
@catfish1957
O's up 9-5 in the 7th tonight.
And once more, please note the juiced ball. End-of-the-bat ...opposite field HRs...by 190lb hitters.
Can somebody pulleeze saw a ball in half and expose this sham? LOL! :beer:
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Just saw that Brooks Robinson passed away. IMO, maybe the greatest defensive player who ever played the game at any position.
RIP....
https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38498947/hall-fame-3b-orioles-legend-brooks-robinson-dies-86 (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38498947/hall-fame-3b-orioles-legend-brooks-robinson-dies-86)
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Just saw that Brooks Robinson passed away. IMO, maybe the greatest defensive player who ever played the game at any position.
RIP....
https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38498947/hall-fame-3b-orioles-legend-brooks-robinson-dies-86 (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38498947/hall-fame-3b-orioles-legend-brooks-robinson-dies-86)
:yowsa: pointing-up
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Terry Francona is hanging up the managerial hat.
LOL! I remember him as a player...he was notorious for going thru a routine after each and every pitch...gloves, helmet, digging up dirt in the box, etc..
One game Rick Dempsey, the Orioles catcher got so frustrated that when he threw the ball back to the mound after a pitch, he purposefully hit Francona SMACK on the side of this helmet. happy77
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One thing about missing out on the Wildcard slot by just ONE win...
It's too easy to go back in your mind and find a game that was given away by an error or managerial mistake.
:yowsa:
Congratulations on the Orioles clinching a BYE and home field advantage with the best LEAGUE record.
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https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38514750/astros-hector-neris-apologizes-julio-rodriguez-mariners (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38514750/astros-hector-neris-apologizes-julio-rodriguez-mariners)
Hector Neris apology does little to warm over Julio Rodriguez
Hector Neris apologized to Julio Rodriguez in a statement Thursday, a day after the Houston Astros reliever shouted at the Mariners star during an at-bat that caused both benches to empty in Seattle.
In a battle of two teams fighting for the final American League wild-card spot, Neris yelled at Rodriguez after striking him out during the sixth inning of what was ultimately an 8-3 Houston win. Rodriguez was visibly angered by the pitcher's actions, as were other members of the Mariners.
"First, I want to apologize to Julio, his family, and the Mariners organization," Neris said in the statement. "I have a tremendous amount of respect for Julio as a person and a player. He means so much to baseball and the communities in the United States and back home in the Dominican Republic. He is a great player and a better person and deserves to be recognized that way........
continued at above link
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OibemAEXQTw
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OibemAEXQTw
Pffffffff!!!!!! Every team has an ass hole, and if I remember right one of your teams in your own bandgwaggonig ways was Bryce Harper.
Not many more of a jerk in MLB than that SOB.
Don't let your Astros hate get to you.
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Pffffffff!!!!!! Every team has an ass hole, and if I remember right one of your teams in your own bandgwaggonig ways was Bryce Harper.
Not many more of a jerk in MLB than that SOB.
Don't let your Astros hate get to you.
I don't "hate" the Astros. Just don't respect them. They cheated!
They're very dangerous in the postseason, however.
So long as they give Jose Altuve an anal exam before each AB to check for buzzers... :whistle: :laugh:
OH...and Angel Hernandez needs a punch in the mouth.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKxN0m1fxX8
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Astros and Rockets announce they are buying AT&T Sportsnet Southwest: https://www.nba.com/rockets/news/astros-and-rockets-announce-astros-and-rockets-announce-acquisition-of-regional-sports-network-att-sportsnet-southwest
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Ridiculous...
On the penultimate day of the regular season, MLB is televising the Guardians vs. Tigers :smokin:
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Want to hear a crazy scenario, that is not out of the realm of possibility?
M's sweep the Rangers, and the Astros split the last 2 with D Backs.
3 Way tie for division championship. And based on MLB tiebreaking rules........
M's win the division among the 3 by having the best winning percentage among games played among the 3.
Astros secure No. 3 WC spot by having a better record against the Rangers., and the Rangers are bumped and stay home in October.
Wow, 3 teams with the same record as divison co-champs, with Mariners securing the bye, the Astros get last WC spot, and Rangers bounced.
It even gets more complicated if the Jays fold and we have a 4 way tie.
https://www.mlb.com/news/2023-mlb-postseason-three-team-and-four-team-tiebreaker-scenarios (https://www.mlb.com/news/2023-mlb-postseason-three-team-and-four-team-tiebreaker-scenarios)
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Want to hear a crazy scenario, that is not out of the realm of possibility?
M's sweep the Rangers, and the Astros split the last 2 with D Backs.
3 Way tie for division championship. And based on MLB tiebreaking rules........
M's win the division among the 3 by having the best winning percentage among games played among the 3.
Astros secure No. 3 WC spot by having a better record against the Rangers., and the Rangers are bumped and stay home in October.
Wow, 3 teams with the same record as divison co-champs, with Mariners securing the bye, the Astros get last WC spot, and Rangers bounced.
It even gets more complicated if the Jays fold and we have a 4 way tie.
https://www.mlb.com/news/2023-mlb-postseason-three-team-and-four-team-tiebreaker-scenarios (https://www.mlb.com/news/2023-mlb-postseason-three-team-and-four-team-tiebreaker-scenarios)
Good stuff! Thanks! :beer:
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Good stuff! Thanks! :beer:
:beer:
Not 100% sure yet, but I am pretty sure this would first time ever that a division winner, didn't make the post season.
One thing we are watching too, is how much advantage having WC Spot 3 ,is than 2. Much rather start the WC round against the Twinkies than the Devil Rays.
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One thing we are watching too, is how much advantage having WC Spot 3 ,is than 2. Much rather start the WC round against the Twinkies than the Devil Rays.
Or maybe you just skip the WC altogether and take the division. :shrug: :whistle: 888high58888
It's a happy day here on the Texas Gulf Coast. A little less happy in North Texas. And just when you thought you'd had all the good news you could stand, we have a cold front coming toward us!
Ah, how sweet it is to be an Astros fan -- even though I think they aged me a little this year.
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Or maybe you just skip the WC altogether and take the division. :shrug: :whistle: 888high58888
It's a happy day here on the Texas Gulf Coast. A little less happy in North Texas. And just when you thought you'd had all the good news you could stand, we have a cold front coming toward us!
Ah, how sweet it is to be an Astros fan -- even though I think they aged me a little this year.
I do have to admit, I wasn't expecting this. Now the next question is how the Ranger's collapse is going to wear on them trying to beat a very good DRays team in a best of 3 on the road. Morale can't be good.
:beer:
And BTW,,, here's to 7 consecutive trips to the post season.
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My uneducated Pennant predictions:
Braves v. Toronto
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Ball one.
https://twitter.com/BadSportsRefs/status/1190299976598990848
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Or maybe you just skip the WC altogether and take the division. :shrug: :whistle: 888high58888
It's a happy day here on the Texas Gulf Coast. A little less happy in North Texas. And just when you thought you'd had all the good news you could stand, we have a cold front coming toward us!
Ah, how sweet it is to be an Astros fan -- even though I think they aged me a little this year.
That Rangers celebration on Saturday night was ridiculous. Big difference between getting a first-round bye and having to go to Tampa.
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Remember pitcher Trevor Bauer being booted from baseball because of that woman's accusations?
Turns out the entire thing was a set-up by her right from the start. Text messages to/from her friends before it all happened about how she was going to target him for his money, claim that she was into getting choked to blackmail him, etc.. He was able to release it all today because the lawsuits finally ended. Jaw-dropping stuff.
https://x.com/BauerOutage/status/1708904525724270659?s=20
"Believe all women."
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Remember pitcher Trevor Bauer being booted from baseball because of that woman's accusations?
Turns out the entire thing was a set-up by her right from the start. Text messages to/from her friends before it all happened about how she was going to target him for his money, claim that she was into getting choked to blackmail him, etc.. He was able to release it all today because the lawsuits finally ended. Jaw-dropping stuff.
https://x.com/BauerOutage/status/1708904525724270659?s=20
"Believe all women."
Will she go to jail for it?
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Will she go to jail for it?
Don't know. Story just broke so all the legal stuff hasn't been fleshed out yet.
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Remember pitcher Trevor Bauer being booted from baseball because of that woman's accusations?
Turns out the entire thing was a set-up by her right from the start. Text messages to/from her friends before it all happened about how she was going to target him for his money, claim that she was into getting choked to blackmail him, etc.. He was able to release it all today because the lawsuits finally ended. Jaw-dropping stuff.
https://x.com/BauerOutage/status/1708904525724270659?s=20
"Believe all women."
Wow. That's pretty horrifying.
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Terry Francona is hanging up the managerial hat.
LOL! I remember him as a player...he was notorious for going thru a routine after each and every pitch...gloves, helmet, digging up dirt in the box, etc..
One game Rick Dempsey, the Orioles catcher got so frustrated that when he threw the ball back to the mound after a pitch, he purposefully hit Francona SMACK on the side of this helmet. happy77
There was another former Indians' manager famous for that same thing. Mike Hargrove, "The Human Rain Delay".
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tGm_JajqLo&t=6s
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There was another former Indians' manager famous for that same thing. Mike Hargrove, "The Human Rain Delay".
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tGm_JajqLo&t=6s
@Maj. Bill Martin :beer:
OMG! Senior moment here.
It was Hargrove, who Rick Dempsey plunked...not Francona!
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Post Season is offically underway!!!!!
Arlington Rangers 1 Tampa Bay D Rays 0 Top of the 5th....
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@Maj. Bill Martin :beer:
OMG! Senior moment here.
It was Hargrove, who Rick Dempsey plunked...not Francona!
Long-time Indians (not Guardians) fan, I remember watching Grover do that all the time. Used to drive my old man nuts!
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AL WC
Arlington Rangers 4 TB D Rays 0. (Rangers up 1-0)
Minnesota Twins 3 Tor Blue Jays 1 (Twins up 1-0)
NL WC
Arizona 4 Milwaukee 3 Bottom of the 8th
Philadelphia 3 Milwaukee 1 Bottom of the 7th
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Yesterday's WC game at TB apparently had he smallest post season crowd in over 100 years..... 19,704. Last time it was smaller? Game 7 of the 1919 Series (Black Sox Series)
Pathetic.
https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/2023-mlb-playoffs-rays-see-historically-low-attendance-for-game-1-of-al-wild-card-series-vs-rangers/ (https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/2023-mlb-playoffs-rays-see-historically-low-attendance-for-game-1-of-al-wild-card-series-vs-rangers/)
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Yesterday's WC game at TB apparently had he smallest post season crowd in over 100 years..... 19,704. Last time it was smaller? Game 7 of the 1919 Series (Black Sox Series)
Pathetic.
https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/2023-mlb-playoffs-rays-see-historically-low-attendance-for-game-1-of-al-wild-card-series-vs-rangers/ (https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/2023-mlb-playoffs-rays-see-historically-low-attendance-for-game-1-of-al-wild-card-series-vs-rangers/)
Wow. That is very sad.
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Rangers up now up 7-0 in the 7th.
D Rays 0 runs and 10 hits in 16 innings. Prob. tough ending for a 99 W season.
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Rangers up now up 7-0 in the 7th.
D Rays 0 runs and 10 hits in 16 innings. Prob. tough ending for a 99 W season.
Having had time to 'study' at the embarrassing attendance for the 1st Wildcard Game at Tropicana Field, some reasons put forth...
...it was a 3PM Game on a Tuesday, that was announced on Sunday.
...elderly demographic majority.
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Having had time to 'study' at the embarrassing attendance for the 1st Wildcard Game at Tropicana Field, some reasons put forth...
...it was a 3PM Game on a Tuesday, that was announced on Sunday.
...elderly demographic majority.
Agree, but 19K? And of that 19K how many were season tickets, which are always enumerated in paid attendance figures? There might have been only 10K there, and finally, you'd think enough TB business types would play hooky for a playoff game. I have noticed that the ABC camera crews have done some innovative camera work to avoid showing the ocean of empty seats.
There's got to be at least a half dozen other metro areas that would / could better support this franchise. I'd be getting the hell out of Dodge.
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Cash..... First mistake was not getting the clutch Uncle Charlie on the Mound.
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Having had time to 'study' at the embarrassing attendance for the 1st Wildcard Game at Tropicana Field, some reasons put forth...
...it was a 3PM Game on a Tuesday, that was announced on Sunday.
...elderly demographic majority.
Most of the transplants are fans of other teams. And then you have the Tampa people who feel entitled to everything on their side of the bridge. It's a 25 minute drive from St. Pete to Tampa, but to hear them tell it, their commute to St. Pete is like a trek through the Darién Gap.
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(https://i.imgflip.com/81ht5u.jpg)
Extra $5 Catfish Dollars for ANYONE who thought All 4 WC series would be sweeps.
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Fox Sports can kiss my ass. Relegate my game to Fox Sports Deaux until the end of the rump ranger game?
Who the hell gets that ? 9999hair out0000
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Enjoying the hell out of seeing Kershaw and the Bums getting shelled.
5 runs and not a single out yet. :silly:
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Kershaw's line tonight- 1/3 IP. 6R. 6H era- 54.00
:silly:
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The Braves are doing what they always do once the playoffs get here.
(https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExeHJlbTBoazc0b2NpajNsZmUzdjhuYTdubXZxOHh6NWM1amllOHJkOSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/RhHpbsIciDlbaBf6OZ/giphy.gif)
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Kershaw's line tonight- 1/3 IP. 6R. 6H era- 54.00
:silly:
I swear @catfish1957 ... Altuve leads off game with a HR again? AGAIN???
He's got a buzzer up his ass that somebody activates. Like Morse Code.
...and he LIKES it!! :laugh:
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I swear @catfish1957 ... Altuve leads off game with a HR again? AGAIN???
He's got a buzzer up his ass that somebody activates. Like Morse Code.
...and he LIKES it!! :laugh:
Astros caught some breaks and besides them, only rubes remain in the AL hunt, and they are going to start feeling the pressure.
Playoff Games the past 10 years- (2013-2022)
Houston- 92
Minnesota- 6
Baltimore- 8
Arlington- 8
And as far as the Altuve buzzing, I understand whyy opposing fans might be a tad jealous of us. We are close to going to our 7th consecutive LCS. Haters gotta hate.
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Fox Sports can kiss my ass. Relegate my game to Fox Sports Deaux until the end of the rump ranger game?
Who the hell gets that ? 9999hair out0000
@catfish1957
Gotta keep that Astros hate going.
Actually, that Rangers-Orioles game got delayed and pushed everything back. My BFF and I get infuriated with delays. Our motto is "put a roof on it!" We might be snobs, but we embrace it. That's gotta count for something.
-------------------------
On a somber note, there's little joy in this weekend of playoff baseball because of the attacks in Israel. Even so, go 'Stros!
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Went to our Orioles game today.
Was a nice time but boy did they stink it up today. Thought first game showed it couldn’t be bad but it wasn’t good tonite. Only thing I can say…they did try to rally.
Anyway, the first play-off I’ve ever been to and a good time. Glad I could get tickets for my son to experience it. You never know, they may never make it for another 40 years.
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@the OlLine Rebel
when I was really little (like 3 or 4) I thought the Orioles were the Oreos like the cookie.
Submitted for everyone's approval, I hope it made you all giggle.
(I'm sorry , I just haven't followed baseball since my dad passed. He use to take us kids to Philly and Yankees games all the time up until I was a teenager)
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@the OlLine Rebel
when I was really little (like 3 or 4) I thought the Orioles were the Oreos like the cookie.
Submitted for everyone's approval, I hope it made you all giggle.
(I'm sorry , I just haven't followed baseball since my dad passed. He use to take us kids to Philly and Yankees games all the time up until I was a teenager)
Oh believe me, we even last nite said maybe we’d have some Oreos in honor of the game (we do indeed have Oreos at home).
That was the way one of our local broadcasters deliberately stated the name: “…the O-ri-Os!”
Sorry about your dad. I’m not huge into any sports either (besides horse-racing, but took that down a lot since they knelt for BLM riots). But, I do like to generally follow what’s happening. Had a spotty record of going to Orioles games over the decades. Never went to a NFL game until 2004 with my now husband, and still only a few overall. My parents took us to some baseball games back in the ‘70s and I even went with my older sister 1 time. Each memory is nice. I just only have a few!
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Oh believe me, we even last nite said maybe we’d have some Oreos in honor of the game (we do indeed have Oreos at home).
That was the way one of our local broadcasters deliberately stated the name: “…the O-ri-Os!”
Sorry about your dad. I’m not huge into any sports either (besides horse-racing, but took that down a lot since they knelt for BLM riots). But, I do like to generally follow what’s happening. Had a spotty record of going to Orioles games over the decades. Never went to a NFL game until 2004 with my now husband, and still only a few overall. My parents took us to some baseball games back in the ‘70s and I even went with my older sister 1 time. Each memory is nice. I just only have a few!
:thumbsup:
Dads are wonderful
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http://twitter.com/_dadler/status/1711557102643143050
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http://twitter.com/_dadler/status/1711557102643143050
I've watched a lot of baseball in my life, and when comes to post season OF clutch catches and plays, this one is easiy in the Top 5.
And extra bonus points for doubling off the biggest ass hole in MLB.... Bryce Harper.
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I've watched a lot of baseball in my life, and when comes to post season OF clutch catches and plays, this one is easiy in the Top 5.
And extra bonus points for doubling off the biggest ass hole in MLB.... Bryce Harper.
It was a crazy end to the game, for sure. I heard today that it was the first time in post-season history there was an outfield-assisted double-play.
As to Bryce Harper, I can't really hate on him anymore. He seems to have finally gotten a little maturity under his belt and seems to be a pretty decent human nowadays. We'll see if it sticks. :shrug:
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Ranger fans ..... "We Want Houston!!!!!" :cool:
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It was a crazy end to the game, for sure. I heard today that it was the first time in post-season history there was an outfield-assisted double-play.
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJ4r3AXS5E0)
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(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJ4r3AXS5E0)
I am sorry, I had to re-loop the Bryce Harper "Walk of Shame" at least 8 times. Getting doubled off in the 9th, down 1 on a long fly?
That a Bill Buckner like Brain Fart, and seeing Harper suffer? :patriot:
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I am sorry, I had to re-loop the Bryce Harper "Walk of Shame" at least 8 times. Getting doubled off in the 9th, down 1 on a long fly?
LOL. It was kind of fun to see the loop of all the different angles of him being thrown out. :beer:
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Although I can't say I am a true baseball fan, like most folks that post here are...I am one of those folks that will jump on the band wagon. :laugh:
So, someone has to say it and it might as well be me...
GO Rangers... :bolt:
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I don't give a damn what anybody says...getting a week off with a "BYE" translates to "bye-bye"!!
Dodgers...Orioles... two offensively powerful teams are being swept?
And the Orioles...who won 101 games didn't just get swept for the first time in 89 SERIES.
They got the SNOT beat of the them.
You cannot get your timing back after sitting on your ass for a week. It takes time.
The opponent...the supposed fodder has been scraping and clawing daily.
*****************
Tell me I'm wrong. :laugh:
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I don't give a damn what anybody says...getting a week off with a "BYE" translates to "bye-bye"!!
Dodgers...Orioles... two offensively powerful teams are being swept?
And the Orioles...who won 101 games didn't just get swept for the first time in 89 SERIES.
They got the SNOT beat of the them.
You cannot get your timing back after sitting on your ass for a week. It takes time.
The opponent...the supposed fodder has been scraping and clawing daily.
*****************
Tell me I'm wrong. :laugh:
We seemed to manage the bye alright...... :cool:
But I know what you mean.
Congrats to my Houston Astros who just broke the record for most consecutive visits to the ALCS. -7
Going to be an epic ALCS. Arlington Rangers and Astros fans pretty much hate each other. Players aren't too friendly with each other either.
Just don't call them Texas Rangers...... They don't represent the state as far as I am concerned.
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We seemed to manage the bye alright...... :cool:
But I know what you mean.
Congrats to my Houston Astros who just broke the record for most consecutive visits to the ALCS. -7
Going to be an epic ALCS. Arlington Rangers and Astros fans pretty much hate each other. Players aren't too friendly with each other either.
Just don't call them Texas Rangers...... They don't represent the state as far as I am concerned.
Let's Go Rangers, beat the Astr(o)isks!
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The Babylon Bee
@TheBabylonBee
Dodgers Wondering If They Should Have Spent More Time Training For Playoffs And Less Time Honoring Satanic Drag Nuns
https://buff.ly/3rPaEk5
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/F8NmsxQXMAAaZgR?format=jpg&name=small)
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I don't give a damn what anybody says...getting a week off with a "BYE" translates to "bye-bye"!!
Dodgers...Orioles... two offensively powerful teams are being swept?
And the Orioles...who won 101 games didn't just get swept for the first time in 89 SERIES.
They got the SNOT beat of the them.
You cannot get your timing back after sitting on your ass for a week. It takes time.
The opponent...the supposed fodder has been scraping and clawing daily.
*****************
Tell me I'm wrong. :laugh:
You're not wrong.
I didn't think my guys were going to make it very far this post-season -- we don't have enough good, healthy pitching for it -- but the layoff definitely didn't help them any. They came out cold as ice.
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Just realized how much I miss @EasyAce 's take on things. happy77
Hope you're doing well out 'there'! :beer:
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Just realized how much I miss @EasyAce 's take on things. happy77
Hope you're doing well out 'there'! :beer:
@DCPatriot
You can still find them on his website.
https://throneberryfields.com/ (https://throneberryfields.com/)
:beer:
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Just realized how much I miss @EasyAce 's take on things. happy77
Hope you're doing well out 'there'! :beer:
@DCPatriot
Had to search for it, but he still posts his on blog. Very knowledgeable fan, but we didn't see it eye to eye due to his coastal team bias, which was evident on an almost continuous basis.
https://throneberryfields.com (https://throneberryfields.com)
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@DCPatriot
You can still find them on his website.
https://throneberryfields.com/ (https://throneberryfields.com/)
:beer:
Thanks, @Polly Ticks !! :laugh:
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Another 100-win season shot to hell. The Braves never fail to disappoint.
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@DCPatriot
Had to search for it, but he still posts his on blog. Very knowledgeable fan, but we didn't see it eye to eye due to his coastal team bias, which was evident on an almost continuous basis.
https://throneberryfields.com (https://throneberryfields.com)
:beer: @catfish1957
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Just realized how much I miss @EasyAce 's take on things. happy77
Hope you're doing well out 'there'! :beer:
@DCPatriot
I'm glad you mentioned him. Thanks to @Polly Ticks and @catfish1957 for providing the link to our old friend. I guess I'll stroll over there and see what he's got to say, although, to be honest, much of the joy of this postseason is overshadowed by the terrorist attacks in Israel. Even so, I'm looking forward to my Astros squaring off with their I-45 rivals. Lots of interesting storylines in that match-up.
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@DCPatriot
I'm glad you mentioned him. Thanks to @Polly Ticks and @catfish1957 for providing the link to our old friend. I guess I'll stroll over there and see what he's got to say, although, to be honest, much of the joy of this postseason is overshadowed by the terrorist attacks in Israel. Even so, I'm looking forward to my Astros squaring off with their I-45 rivals. Lots of interesting storylines in that match-up.
@AllThatJazzZ
:beer: Good luck!! Be carefull of Scherzer. :laugh:
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Here we go again!! The Game that keeps on giving!
NO Game #1 until Sunday night!!
...another chance to test the theory that batters are at a distinct disadvantage
if they sit on their asses for a week, playing video games.
RANGERS destroyed my ORIOLES...they haven't played for a work week.
ASTROS toyed with the TWINS...
I'm predicting a very low-scoring game. Maybe even a shutout. God forbid a no-hitter.
Dusty Baker vs. Bruce Bochy
Both took the GIANTS to the Promised Land.
@catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @AllThatJazzZ @Elderberry @Bigun (ya ole grouch) :laugh:
@dfwgator @mountaineer
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I hate that the World Series won't be decided until sometime in November. Ridiculous. Break out your mittens.
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And so it goes in GAME 1
RANGERS SHUT OUT THE ASTROS, 2-0
Astros provide 5 singles...6 men LOB.
Verlander pitched a good game going 6-2/3 innings. He takes the loss.
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And so it goes in GAME 1
RANGERS SHUT OUT THE ASTROS, 2-0
Astros provide 5 singles...6 men LOB.
Verlander pitched a good game going 6-2/3 innings. He takes the loss.
Fantastic game. Go Rangers. But please, no more Chapman, he was very lucky that wasn't a home run.
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Fantastic game. Go Rangers. But please, no more Chapman, he was very lucky that wasn't a home run.
Congrats. Rangers were smart using a relatively unknown arm (recently from STL). The Astros have played 97 playoff games in the past 10 years, and aftEr seeing them all, I can vouch I that that was the worst game I have seen for them in plate managment. Never had I seen them swinging at so many bad pitches, and taking so many good ones.
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FS1 Free Livestream to watch the Astros/Rangers Game 3, if needed.
https://tv247.us/watch/fox-sports-1-free-stream/ (https://tv247.us/watch/fox-sports-1-free-stream/)
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Astros always do better on the road.
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Astros always do better on the road.
@Elderberry
Can we arrange to play the rest of the ALCS in Arlington?
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The Rangers have historically been chokers, so don't worry.
I still think they will pull it off. Outside a weak Max Scherzer, the Astros haven't hit anybody in this ALCS. Including what may be one of the worst bullpens in MLB history. And that sometimes supposed vaulted post season experience, sometimes comes across as lackadaisical play and over confidence. Rangers in 7.
OTOH, Yordan Alvarez is a bad ass hitting machine. Jim Crane...... Pay the man now for 10 more years in Houston.
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I still think they will pull it off. Outside a weak Max Scherzer, the Astros haven't hit anybody in this ALCS. Including what may be one of the worst bullpens in MLB history. And that sometimes supposed vaulted post season experience, sometimes comes across as lackadaisical play and over confidence. Rangers in 7.
OTOH, Yordan Alvarez is a bad ass hitting machine. Jim Crane...... Pay the man now for 10 more years in Houston.
@catfish1957
Astros have been lackadaisical throughout the year. Except when they got hot. But they haven't stayed hot for a sustained period of time. Also, our pitchers are a crap shoot. Just because we recognize the pitcher doesn't mean we recognize his pitches. It's been a white-knuckle year for me and my Astros-watching buddies. If they get scrappy and make it happen this year, I'll consider it a miracle. BTW, I wish we still had Stromy.
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As I was saying.... :2popcorn:
Yep, Astros found their mojo, they'll sweep the next two. Rangers are the Rangers again.
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The Rangers have historically been chokers, so don't worry.
Even I underestimated the level of gag refex of this team. Exciting game.
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Even I underestimated the level of gag refex of this team. Exciting game.
This morning....was so sick of reading about "The Great Jose Altuve" all over the MLB channel and ESPN site, I mumbled
"That little Bleep! Why even pitch to that Midget? I'd walk him intentionally to START the game...and go for a double play.
Why let that little Smurf beat you?? WTF IS WRONG WITH YOU???
And that was after my 2nd cup of coffee!!
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Rump Ranger fans on Reddit are claiming Baker cheated by icing Arlington's reliever after his ejection.
Dumbasses.... who does a one out one on, with a one run lead intentional HBP. And Game 5 of the ALCS to boot.
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Rump Ranger fans on Reddit are claiming Baker cheated by icing Arlington's reliever after his ejection.
Dumbasses.... who does a one out one on, with a one run lead intentional HBP.
Another Rangers "Choketober"
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Reminds me of another Texas playoff, for the Western Division NBA back in 94/95 season where nobody was home~ Rockets/Spurs. Okeem finally won it at home for us over rookie MVP David Robinson. We went on to beat Shaq/Heat for the final, If I recall correctly.
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I literally love Jose Altuve.
Next stop, Minute Maid Park. We don't tend to do too well at home, so we need some 'Tuve haters to show up to boo him. How about you, @DCPatriot?
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Altuve sems more determined and locked in when fans boo him.
I hope the other 29 team's fan bases continue that practice. Works out well for us.
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Altuve sems more determined and locked in when fans boo him.
I hope the other 29 team's fan bases continue that practice. Works out well for us.
I was just telling a friend how delicious it is when the ballparks go quiet when Altuve goes yard. I've been known to rewind and savor the moment again.
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Love it when Kimbrell and his silly pitching routine gets rocked.
AZ/PHI. 5-5 in the bottom of the 8th.
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Another Rangers "Choketober"
I do feel sorry for Bochy though. He is 10X the manager that Crusty Baker is
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I literally love Jose Altuve.
Next stop, Minute Maid Park. We don't tend to do too well at home, so we need some 'Tuve haters to show up to boo him. How about you, @DCPatriot?
@AllThatJazzZ
Nah! Tip my hat to him.
Can Max Scherzer 'find' his SLIDER? Because without it...future looks bleak for them.
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@catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @AllThatJazzZ @Elderberry @Jack Russell @dfwgator
Did anyone else find the Diamondbacks' strategy of using EIGHT pitchers fascinating?
I'd never seen that before...and I watched Willie Mays' over-the-shoulder catch in centerfield in 1954 'live' on a 13 inch Admiral B&W television. :laugh:
Suppose it was to insure the Phillies' lineup never saw the same "stuff" twice...let alone thrice!
Arizona 6 Philadelphia 5 Series tied 2 apiece.
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@catfish1957 @Polly Ticks @AllThatJazzZ @Elderberry @Jack Russell @dfwgator
Did anyone else find the Diamondbacks' strategy of using EIGHT pitchers fascinating?
@DCPatriot
That was cool. And this phenomenon is growing in MLB. Seems the system of "starters", especially in the post season has whittled down to just "competitive starters". I believe the Rangers will be trying something near this if this thing gets to Game 7 in Houston. Which is a good chance, since the 'Stros historically struggle against Evoldi.
Not exactly recent history, but one of my favorite examples of this was back in '03 when the Astros no-hit the Yankees with 6 pitchers. And wow did it bring back memories, where at least that moment in time the Astros had one of the greatest back three tandem in the pen with Dotel-Lidge-Wagner.
And I agree with the once-twice-thrice theor. I'd guess in 90% of arms, that the averages (ba, slug, ops, etc.) increase with each round of the lineup. If this game truly is into analytics, I am surprised MLB pitching hasn't turned into more of a staff of no one going more than 3
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@DCPatriot
That was cool. And this phenomenon is growing in MLB. Seems the system of "starters", especially in the post season has whittled down to just "competitive starters". I believe the Rangers will be trying something near this if this thing gets to Game 7 in Houston. Which is a good chance, since the 'Stros historically struggle against Evoldi.
Not exactly recent history, but one of my favorite examples of this was back in '03 when the Astros no-hit the Yankees with 6 pitchers. And wow did it bring back memories, where at least that moment in time the Astros had one of the greatest back three tandem in the pen with Dotel-Lidge-Wagner.
@catfish1957
:beer:
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@AllThatJazzZ
Nah! Tip my hat to him.
Can Max Scherzer 'find' his SLIDER? Because without it...future looks bleak for them.
We've seen first hand what Scherzer can do in the WS, and it wasn't fun for us. One thing I am enjoying now days, is watching the body language and facial expressions of pitchers. Some have ice cold water flowing through their veins, but others?......
And one thing I saw the other night with Scherzer was that steel eyed scrowl was missing, and you could tell in his eyes, he didn't have his best stuff that night. I think his career, and great one it is, might be winding down. Man's too much of a competitior to be a middle inning relief mop up guy.
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@AllThatJazzZ
Nah! Tip my hat to him.
Can Max Scherzer 'find' his SLIDER? Because without it...future looks bleak for them.
The Astros have Framber and Christian Javier on deck. I like the odds whatever the Rangers decide to throw at them.
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We've seen first hand what Scherzer can do in the WS, and it wasn't fun for us. One thing I am enjoying now days, is watching the body language and facial expressions of pitchers. Some have ice cold water flowing through their veins, but others?......
And one thing I saw the other night with Scherzer was that steel eyed scrowl was missing, and you could tell in his eyes, he didn't have his best stuff that night. I think his career, and great one it is, might be winding down. Man's too much of a competitior to be a middle inning relief mop up guy.
Yeah...he's a bit "kinky".
On his starting days, he wears his complete uniform in the pen...and nobody had better try to speak to him.
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The Astros have Framber and Christian Javier on deck. I like the odds whatever the Rangers decide to throw at them.
:beer:
Forgot to ping you @Bigun
...you've been 'absent' too long! happy77
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:beer:
Forgot to ping you @Bigun
...you've been 'absent' too long! happy77
Not absent! Just nothing much baseball related to say these days @DCPatriot I absolutely HATE what they have done to a game I once loved!
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Not absent! Just nothing much baseball related to say these days @DCPatriot I absolutely HATE what they have done to a game I once loved!
Same here. I find myself yelling like a crazy old man at the TV, when the woke shit starts. And wokeness.....there is a plethora of it in MLB, and their marketing arm. I just try to tune it out the best I can.
Which is why I pretty much why I watch regular season baseball at the 40000 foot level. In fact the first game I watched this year was Game one of the ALDS. If this sport wants me back full time, lose the pandering to minorities.
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Same here. I find myself yelling like a crazy old man at the TV, when the woke shit starts. And wokeness.....there is a plethora of it in MLB, and their marketing arm. I just try to tune it out the best I can.
Which is why I pretty much why I watch regular season baseball at the 40000 foot level. In fact the first game I watched this year was Game one of the ALDS. If this sport wants me back full time, lose the pandering to minorities.
The first professional baseball I saw this year was Twins vs Astros. If you are at the 40,000 ft level, I'm at 50 or above.
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The first professional baseball I saw this year was Twins vs Astros. If you are at the 40,000 ft level, I'm at 50 or above.
Yep, games 1-162, I just pretty much read the game recaps, and box score. Far cry from my childhood, when my summer calendar pretty much revolved around baseball on the radio
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While all the praise is being heaped up on Altuve for the three run homer, he is humble and gives the credit to Diaz and Singleton for getting on base first:
https://twitter.com/MarkBerman_/status/1715535529083572608
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I think it is a crying shame what happened in '17, but I am enough of a fan and student of the game, to know and realize that back prior to 2017, it is likely 2/3-3/4 of all MLB teams were into high tech, and suspect sign stealing in the day. The Astros got caught, which is a shame too, because back in 2017, they had enough horses to win it all without cheating. This is all evidenced of their success since too, so I have to embarass anyone who claims this is a team that had to cheat to win it all.
Altuve is a good hearted, great player, who outside this blemish, is one of the most well rounded, must-tooled players of my lifetime. And a winning personality that is just contagious. I am guessing the '17 event might prevent him from the HOF, but when and if the truth comes out, I think you will find a major chunk of players prior to 2018 were just as guilty, but didn't get caught.
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I wholeheartedly agree with that assessment @catfish1957 Most of them were cheating with the placement of Hi Tech cameras.
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I think it is a crying shame what happened in '17, but I am enough of a fan and student of the game, to know and realize that back prior to 2017, it is likely 2/3-3/4 of all MLB teams were into high tech, and suspect sign stealing in the day. The Astros got caught, which is a shame too, because back in 2017, they had enough horses to win it all without cheating. This is all evidenced of their success since too, so I have to embarass anyone who claims this is a team that had to cheat to win it all.
Altuve is a good hearted, great player, who outside this blemish, is one of the most well rounded, must-tooled players of my lifetime. And a winning personality that is just contagious. I am guessing the '17 event might prevent him from the HOF, but when and if the truth comes out, I think you will find a major chunk of players prior to 2018 were just as guilty, but didn't get caught.
The ASTROS "got caught" because they were a team from flyover country who had the audacity to knock off teams to which titles rightfully belonged (to hear them tell it) and THAT simply couldn't be allowed!
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The ASTROS "got caught" because they were a team from flyover country who had the audacity to knock off teams to which titles rightfully belonged (to hear them tell it) and THAT simply couldn't be allowed!
And still we have made it to 7 straight ALCS. If that's not a big enough middle finger to the BoSox, NYY, Dodgers, COB office, and MLB media clowns, I don't know what is.
:beer:
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Any team using Creed as their inspiration has to be the silliest damn outfit I have ever seen.
Sloppy crappy corporate rock at its worst.
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https://twitter.com/jakedc6/status/1715847172153905599?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet
This is personal. 9999hair out0000 Change my mind.
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https://twitter.com/jakedc6/status/1715847172153905599?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet
This is personal. 9999hair out0000 Change my mind.
They don't like teams from flyover country showing them up! Won't stand for it!
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https://twitter.com/jakedc6/status/1715847172153905599?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet
This is personal. 9999hair out0000 Change my mind.
Unless MLB rules have changed he can appeal the ruling and stay in uniform through out the post season. Then take his two days off at the beginning on next season, which isn't shit for a reliever.
But this is bullshit, there is no reason on earth the team would risk the entire season on this matter. Now.... if was 10-0, and in the late innings? Now that's another point to discuss.
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They don't like teams from flyover country showing them up! Won't stand for it!
Bothersome to me is the fact now that Abreu has now lost the inner 1/3 of the plate to this farce. Anything close is going to be construed as a bean ball attempt.
I hope a few Houston fans tonight can bait this hot head, and maybe have him rush the stands. $10 says he's roided POS.
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They don't like teams from flyover country showing them up! Won't stand for it!
Exactly, plus still exacting revenge from the Astros. This irks the snot out of me. I'd love to hear how those incompetent umps decided that the Astros would deliberately hit a base runner late in a PLAYOFF game that gets us closer to the World Series would be smart baseball. The Astros didn't get where they are by playing dumb baseball. How exactly did they come to that decision?
Please, Lord, let the Astros win another World Series so we can enjoy the spectacle of Rob Manfred getting booed at 95 decibels in MMP.
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MLB Playoffs 2023: Complicated legacy of Astros' Jose Altuve
Jeff Passan - ESPN
HOUSTON -- HERE, JOSE ALTUVE is safe. From the boos and hisses, the anger and loathing, the emotion his mere existence conjures. This man, baseball's smallest player and yet one of its biggest stars, lives a binary existence. He is a villain in 29 stadiums. And then he comes home.
Here, in this proud and protective city, Altuve is not a hero. He is the hero, the face of the Houston Astros, the reigning World Series winners intent on becoming the first back-to-back champions in Major League Baseball this century. When Altuve steps to the plate in the bottom of the first inning tonight in the sixth game of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers, the sold-out crowd at Minute Maid Park will rise and fete him -- and with good reason. The Astros are one win shy of the World Series because of Altuve's latest opus, a go-ahead three-run home run in the ninth inning of Game 5 that should burnish his legacy.
Altuve's, though, is a legacy already written. In Houston, he can't be touched; outside of it -- fair or not -- he is defined by the Astros' actions in 2017, when they implemented a sign-stealing scheme en route to the franchise's first World Series title. It matters not that several of his 2017 teammates say Altuve declined to use the system in which Astros employees banged on a trash can to inform hitters when an off-speed pitch was coming, nor that an analysis of regular-season games that year validated such claims.
How MLB handled the franchise's scandal -- the league validated the championship and opted not to punish the players despite commissioner Rob Manfred's report twice referring to the scheme as "player-driven" -- did Altuve no favors. He receives justice by voice box. The criticism never abates, except along the I-10 corridor from San Antonio into Louisiana and especially in Houston, where orange clothing connotes membership in a group that treats Altuve with a particular sort of veneration. Outside of it, the general public believes what it wants to believe.
Nearly four years after the breadth of the Astros' cheating was exposed, the stain on Altuve is indelible. He lives with it -- with the public perception about his involvement with the trash can bangs, with the charges that his knowledge of the system amounted to complicity no matter his level of involvement.
"I just don't really have a lot to say about it," Altuve told ESPN earlier this month. "I play for these guys, for my team. We have a big opportunity to win again. I want to put all my energy toward winning for my team versus getting distracted by paying attention to other things."
Continued at link https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38711912/mlb-playoffs-2023-astros-jose-altuve-alcs-world-series-legacy (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38711912/mlb-playoffs-2023-astros-jose-altuve-alcs-world-series-legacy)
**********************************************
The slimy SOB literally screamed to his teammates not to tear off his jersey as he was trotting toward home plate...because HE WAS WIRED...a "buzz" or stimulus as to what kind of pitch was coming.
EFF JOSE ALTUVE! Hope they get crushed tonight.
That said, I'd give him an intentional walk ...bottom of 1st inning. :bolt: :laugh:
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Unless MLB rules have changed he can appeal the ruling and stay in uniform through out the post season. Then take his two days off at the beginning on next season, which isn't shit for a reliever.
But this is bullshit, there is no reason on earth the team would risk the entire season on this matter. Now.... if was 10-0, and in the late innings? Now that's another point to discuss.
Yes, he can appeal, but he shouldn't even be facing suspension. He should never have had to leave the game. Garcia is just a big titty baby who was sitting at the ready for some kind of drama. I get that it hurts to be hit. But how you choose to react reveals who you are. I want the sorry Rangers to head north with their hearts heavy.
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MLB Playoffs 2023: Complicated legacy of Astros' Jose Altuve
Jeff Passan - ESPN
Continued at link https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38711912/mlb-playoffs-2023-astros-jose-altuve-alcs-world-series-legacy (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38711912/mlb-playoffs-2023-astros-jose-altuve-alcs-world-series-legacy)
You can entertain yourself with Pissant's article. I'm not in the mood for yet another one of these pieces. I'm sure it's good for clicks by the haters. I'm weary of the incessant carrying on.
Please, Houston. Make America Mad Again!
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@DCPatriot
YOU are so FOS your eyes are brown!
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@DCPatriot
YOU are so FOS your eyes are brown!
@Bigun
:yowsa: 888high58888 :beer:
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@DCPatriot
YOU are so FOS your eyes are brown!
@Bigun :beer:
Just trying to get us talking beisbol, that's all Earl!
LOL! I would have him batting leadoff for the Orioles in a New York Minute!
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MLB Playoffs 2023: Complicated legacy of Astros' Jose Altuve
Jeff Passan - ESPN
All I needed to see was "ESPN" to parse the integrity of this article. As left leaning woke-meisters, coastal mentality, and your strong knowledge of the game, I am really surprised you'd stoop to citing them with any substance or authority.
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All I needed to see was "ESPN" to parse the integrity of this article. As left leaning woke-meisters, coastal mentality, and your strong knowledge of the game, I am really surprised you'd stoop to citing them with any substance or authority.
Come on man...I posted an article about Jose Altuve.
When @mystery-ak stops posting articles from The Hill and Politico, I'll ease up on Jose. happy77
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I've been out of town since Thursday night, so I haven't had a chance to watch any of the games this weekend. Looks like I missed some good ones.
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Alright guys, I know most of ya'll are 'Stros fans. I'm a Rangers fan. However...
It's a win win to me if either team goes to the Series. It's always fun when a Texas team gets there. :laugh:
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Can anybody picture the number of television network execs, getting ready to jump out their office windows?
A possible Arizona Diamondbacks versus Texas Rangers World Series???
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Alright guys, I know most of ya'll are 'Stros fans. I'm a Rangers fan. However...
It's a win win to me if either team goes to the Series. It's always fun when a Texas team gets there. :laugh:
@berdie
Looks like Congratulations are in order for the Texas Rangers...leading 10-2 middle of 6th inning.
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ASTROS need to score 9 runs with only 8 outs to give.
Altuve may only get 1 more plate appearance...and that's if somebody gets on base and doesn't get doubled off.
...and Bregman just hit a double.
...and WTF??? did everybody go mute? :2popcorn: :2popcorn: :laugh:
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Does George W. Bush still maintain partial ownership of the Rangers?
And that SOB Altuve hit it over the railroad tracks in his last PA (plate appearance)
RANGERS 11 ASTROS 4
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I still think they will pull it off. Outside a weak Max Scherzer, the Astros haven't hit anybody in this ALCS. Including what may be one of the worst bullpens in MLB history. And that sometimes supposed vaulted post season experience, sometimes comes across as lackadaisical play and over confidence. Rangers in 7.
OTOH, Yordan Alvarez is a bad ass hitting machine. Jim Crane...... Pay the man now for 10 more years in Houston.
Well, my interest in baseball this season ended tonight.
Yep, Called this one. Any chance we had tonight was blown by Crusty's mismanagment of the pen. If there is one positive thing that came out of this ALCS this year, is maybe we've seen the last of Baker's ass in the dugout. Ass hole is way wa overrated. Media makes a big deal about his managerial career, but honestly he's blown more pennants than he's won.
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You're welcome, America!
Go Rangers!
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IMO.....
The most interesting fact going into the WS, is the Arlington Rangers are the first team in MLB history to have more blown saves in a season than saves. The fact the Astros couldn't captialize on this shitty bullpen? They didn't deserve to win the ALCS.
Go Phillies.... (but I won't be watching)
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:beer: :beer: :beer: :beer:
happy77 happy77 happy77 happy77 happy77 happy77 happy77 happy77 happy77 happy77 happy77
https://theathletic.com/4992336/2023/10/23/dusty-baker-astros-final-season/?source=twitterhq (https://theathletic.com/4992336/2023/10/23/dusty-baker-astros-final-season/?source=twitterhq)
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Well, my interest in baseball this season ended tonight.
Yep, Called this one. Any chance we had tonight was blown by Crusty's mismanagment of the pen. If there is one positive thing that came out of this ALCS this year, is maybe we've seen the last of Baker's ass in the dugout. Ass hole is way wa overrated. Media makes a big deal about his managerial career, but honestly he's blown more pennants than he's won.
LOL! Easy there on "Crusty" Baker.
And I already know your 'retort' that coming. :laugh: ... Dusty has the 4th or 5th most managerial playoff wins...in MLB HISTORY!
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Well, my interest in baseball this season ended tonight.
Yep, Called this one. Any chance we had tonight was blown by Crusty's mismanagment of the pen. If there is one positive thing that came out of this ALCS this year, is maybe we've seen the last of Baker's ass in the dugout. Ass hole is way wa overrated. Media makes a big deal about his managerial career, but honestly he's blown more pennants than he's won.
I saw a little factoid on some sports show or other yesterday while my hubby and I were out to lunch that Dusty had never won a Game 7 and Bochy had never lost a Game 7. Looks like both of their records remain intact.
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The most interesting FACT about this year's ALCS is that neither team won a game at home. Think about that for a minute.
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The most interesting FACT about this year's ALCS is that neither team won a game at home. Think about that for a minute.
Same thing happened in the '19 series with the Nationals. Astros were on the short end of both anamolies.
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This one was hard to take. Losing to the Arlington Rangers with 2 major jackasses on their team (Simien and Garcia) was stomach turning. I'd like to wish my fellow Texans well, but until and unless those two jerks have moved on (or earnestly apologized), they can kiss my lovely Texas tush.
I would love to see Arizona end up crushing them in the WS. That would be my best-case scenario. No one wants to see another East Coast team in the WS. So since the Diamondbacks took care of the Dodgers, I hope they can take care of the Phillies as well. They will have much respect from me if they can eliminate both of those coastal teams and keep it here in flyover country. Will MLB allow it to happen? Will the umps attempt to prevent it? :shrug:
I would be ecstatic if Dusty called it a day. He ticked me off all season, but the mistakes he made during the playoffs were just maddening. 9999hair out0000
I still miss Stromy, but he's probably thrilled to have been a part of developing a winning ballclub in Arizona. I like to think he could have helped our pitchers this year, but we'll never know. All I know is that we didn't get to enjoy the anticipation of having Framber or Javi or whoever on the mound because there was a 50/50 chance we wouldn't get the pitcher we had once depended on. It was pitiful at times. I'd pretty much written the 'Stros off this year because our pitching was so erratic. It was good to be wrong, but I do wish we could have gone all the way.
Oh well, I've got to shake it off and wait for what develops next year. I'm probably baseballed out for this year unless someone (hopefully Arizona) is about to put a fork in the Rangers. I'd tune in for that.
@berdie Please don't take it personally about the Rangers. There's even one more factor that forms my opinion of them and that's my snotty cousin who lives up there. :silly: For all she does to remove the joy from the lives of others, she doesn't deserve to celebrate a pennant victory.
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I don't take sports personally any more @AllThatJazzZ . :laugh: I can tell you are far more knowledgeable about this than I. I just jump on board when there is a major game involved. In the case of the World Series I'll get interested if Texas is involved or there is some great story involved. Like breaking the curse of the Babe or such.
Houston is a great team so I don't have any issues with them. The interstate rivalry is fun. That being said, I don't have a competitive nature...so I'm really not a good one to say anything. :rolling:
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I don't take sports personally any more @AllThatJazzZ . :laugh: I can tell you are far more knowledgeable about this than I. I just jump on board when there is a major game involved. In the case of the World Series I'll get interested if Texas is involved or there is some great story involved. Like breaking the curse of the Babe or such.
Houston is a great team so I don't have any issues with them. The interstate rivalry is fun. That being said, I don't have a competitive nature...so I'm really not a good one to say anything. :rolling:
@berdie, the fun thing for the fans is the atmosphere in the air when your team is either on the brink of winning or has won the WS. Even during the regular season, it's fun to encounter people in store who are wearing the team merch. I hope that doesn't go away for us after this outcome. The Astros are a great team, but they haven't lived up to their potential. This should give every fan something to talk about when they're out and about. :laugh:
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One more thing for my fellow Astros fans...
Reggie Jackson was sitting with Big Papi and the rest of the panel before one of the games. He talked about how Jim Crane was devoted to diversity in the front office. My heart sank. As a fan, I want them devoted to winning. NOT diversity. Now I'll question every move made that includes some "victimized" group. There's no way to keep from asking, "Hmmm. Is he here on merit or for the sake of diversity?"
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One more thing for my fellow Astros fans...
Reggie Jackson was sitting with Big Papi and the rest of the panel before one of the games. He talked about how Jim Crane was devoted to diversity in the front office. My heart sank. As a fan, I want them devoted to winning. NOT diversity. Now I'll question every move made that includes some "victimized" group. There's no way to keep from asking, "Hmmm. Is he here on merit or for the sake of diversity?"
Our Astros are just one of 30 teams of that mindset right now. Watch any MLB commerical and see the outright blatant pandering and exclusive catering to minorities. It's like the game is giving white peole the middle finger, and asking them to stay away.
This is the primary reason, I pretty much ignore this game during the regular season. If they don't want my fan $.... hell with them.
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It's ALL just show business today! None of it is for real like it used to be.
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This one was hard to take. Losing to the Arlington Rangers with 2 major jackasses on their team (Simien and Garcia) was stomach turning. I'd like to wish my fellow Texans well, but until and unless those two jerks have moved on (or earnestly apologized), they can kiss my lovely Texas tush.
I would love to see Arizona end up crushing them in the WS. That would be my best-case scenario. No one wants to see another East Coast team in the WS. So since the Diamondbacks took care of the Dodgers, I hope they can take care of the Phillies as well. They will have much respect from me if they can eliminate both of those coastal teams and keep it here in flyover country. Will MLB allow it to happen? Will the umps attempt to prevent it? :shrug:
I would be ecstatic if Dusty called it a day. He ticked me off all season, but the mistakes he made during the playoffs were just maddening. 9999hair out0000
I still miss Stromy, but he's probably thrilled to have been a part of developing a winning ballclub in Arizona. I like to think he could have helped our pitchers this year, but we'll never know. All I know is that we didn't get to enjoy the anticipation of having Framber or Javi or whoever on the mound because there was a 50/50 chance we wouldn't get the pitcher we had once depended on. It was pitiful at times. I'd pretty much written the 'Stros off this year because our pitching was so erratic. It was good to be wrong, but I do wish we could have gone all the way.
Oh well, I've got to shake it off and wait for what develops next year. I'm probably baseballed out for this year unless someone (hopefully Arizona) is about to put a fork in the Rangers. I'd tune in for that.
@berdie Please don't take it personally about the Rangers. There's even one more factor that forms my opinion of them and that's my snotty cousin who lives up there. :silly: For all she does to remove the joy from the lives of others, she doesn't deserve to celebrate a pennant victory.
Jazzy.... I too thought having to lose to the rangers was a worst case loss. But..... think about it. How many fans are lucky enough to have their team go to 4 World Series in 7 years, win 2 of them? And actually go to the LCS 7 straight years? Heck the Mariners have been around 50 years, and have yet to make it to the World Series.
We've been blessed with good teams, and have gotten a little to used to and comfortable with winning. Maybe time to share......
Still with that, I hope the Dbacks or Phils embarass these dip sh__'s rangers with a sweep.
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It's ALL just show business today! None of it is for real like it used to be.
Yep Reason no. 2-100. MLB and COB office has done masterful job of destroying the traditions of the game. Turning the stadiums into cheap looking pinball machines, ghost runners, among others......... etc.
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Yep Reason no. 2-100. MLB and COB office has done masterful job of destroying the traditions of the game. Turning the stadiums into cheap looking pinball machines, ghost runners, among others......... etc.
This is what I saw last night in the 9th inning with Jose Altuve getting one last AB.
Diamondbacks catcher stops and throws a 'new' ball to pitcher. SAME ball travels FOUR HUNDRED and GAZILLION FEET over the railroad tracks. 11-4 Diamondbacks. happy77
You're damned right this is all show business.
But I love it. Especially, when you see Garcia cupping his ear and shushing the crowd of 50K with an index finger across his lips...while rounding the bases during his grand slam.
He pissed me off in the 1st inning when he missed a HR *yellow line* by about 3 feet...and only ended up on 1ST BASE!
Next pitch or so, he steals 2nd.
MVP gets tossed out of a game where he gets INTENTIONALLY BEANED (don't kid yourselves...call it a brain fart) he was hit and slapped at catcher's facemask.
Meanwhile Abreu can serve his two games in 2024? What kind of happy horse poop is that?
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This is what I saw last night in the 9th inning with Jose Altuve getting one last AB.
Diamondbacks catcher stops and throws a 'new' ball to pitcher. SAME ball travels FOUR HUNDRED and GAZILLION FEET over the railroad tracks. 11-4 Diamondbacks. happy77
You're damned right this is all show business.
But I love it. Especially, when you see Garcia cupping his ear and shushing the crowd of 50K with an index finger across his lips...while rounding the bases during his grand slam.
He pissed me off in the 1st inning when he missed a HR *yellow line* by about 3 feet...and only ended up on 1ST BASE!
Next pitch or so, he steals 2nd.
MVP gets tossed out of a game where he gets INTENTIONALLY BEANED (don't kid yourselves...call it a brain fart) he was hit and slapped at catcher's facemask.
Meanwhile Abreu can serve his two games in 2024? What kind of happy horse poop is that?
I'm genuinely glad YOU love it @DCPatriot but I remember when professional baseball was still a sport.
Now it's no different than wrestling and football. ALL showbiz and I HATE it.
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I'm genuinely glad YOU love it @DCPatriot but I remember when professional baseball was still a sport.
Now it's no different than wrestling and football. ALL showbiz and I HATE it.
@Bigun
LOL! Come on! If it weren't for the Latin American, there would be only a dozen teams in the MLB.
"Joey Batts"...aka Joe Bautista of the Blue Jays was atune to Mark Gastineau of the Jets.
The former with a BAT FLIP...the latter a QB SACK. Tatis, Jr. has turned the bat flip and the complete stop before touching 3rd base on a HR trot...an Art Form! :beer:
It's a completely different strikezone from when you and I played the game. Letters to knees.
And a breaking ball coming at you downhill ...with the standard height of the pitcher's mound...no wonder I could never barrel up. LOL!
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@Bigun
LOL! Come on! If it weren't for the Latin American, there would be only a dozen teams in the MLB.
"Joey Batts"...aka Joe Bautista of the Blue Jays was atune to Mark Gastineau of the Jets.
The former with a BAT FLIP...the latter a QB SACK. Tatis, Jr. has turned the bat flip and the complete stop before touching 3rd base on a HR trot...an Art Form! :beer:
It's a completely different strikezone from when you and I played the game. Letters to knees.
And a breaking ball coming at you downhill ...with the standard height of the pitcher's mound...no wonder I could never barrel up. LOL!
Enjoy it @DCPatriot I'll watch college sports until they ruin that. (It's coming.)
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Reggie Jackson was sitting with Big Papi and the rest of the panel before one of the games. He talked about how Jim Crane was devoted to diversity in the front office.
They're going to hire more white center fielders?
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They're going to hire more white center fielders?
:laugh: :beer:
"PUT ME IN COACH!!"
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They're going to hire more white center fielders?
@Hoodat
:shrug: I'm confused. What does center fielders have to do with front office diversity?
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I would love to see Arizona end up crushing them in the WS. That would be my best-case scenario. No one wants to see another East Coast team in the WS. So since the Diamondbacks took care of the Dodgers, I hope they can take care of the Phillies as well. They will have much respect from me if they can eliminate both of those coastal teams and keep it here in flyover country. Will MLB allow it to happen? Will the umps attempt to prevent it? :shrug:
Yay! I got my wish. Arizona goes to the WS and Phillies stay home! If this is my consolation prize, I'll take it.
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Yay! I got my wish. Arizona goes to the WS and Phillies stay home! If this is my consolation prize, I'll take it.
:beer:
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:beer:
@Cyber Liberty
Congratulations to 'your' Diamondbacks!! :beer:
Cannot imagine the $$$ lost in endorsements for the Phillies...and individual stars.
Also, in re-negotiated commercial spot costs without the Eastern market.
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@Cyber Liberty
Congratulations to 'your' Diamondbacks!! :beer:
Cannot imagine the $$$ lost in endorsements for the Phillies...and individual stars.
Also, in re-negotiated commercial spot costs without the Eastern market.
How do you think they'll do against the Rangers?
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Speaking as an Astros fan, I hope the Diamondbacks kick their azz.
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How do you think they'll do against the Rangers?
@Cyber Liberty
Hmmm...
Well...as an ORIOLES' fan who watched them win 101 Games and play better on the road...and get absolutely CRUSHED by the RANGERS?
Gotta go with the RANGERS.
But the Diamondbacks are a helluva lot of fun to watch.
...and THEY BEAT THE BLEEPING PHILLIES!!! :laugh:
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@Cyber Liberty
Hmmm...
Well...as an ORIOLES' fan who watched them win 101 Games and play better on the road...and get absolutely CRUSHED by the RANGERS?
Gotta go with the RANGERS.
But the Diamondbacks are a helluva lot of fun to watch.
...and THEY BEAT THE BLEEPING PHILLIES!!! :laugh:
:beer:
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Can you imagine the payoff at Vegas, if you'd put money on a DBacks-arlington WS this year?
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Don't care what your W-L record is after 162.
Postseason champions are nothing but a crap-shoot. Billy Beane was right.
Screw the coast teams with multi-million $$$ starting line-ups.
Somedays' the ball looks like a cantaloupe...somedays it's a white pea.
To me, it's one of the most fascinating aspects of The Game...and of life itself.
Certainly not all of them, but I've always suspected that the most stubborn anti-Trumpers on our board have never played team sports in organized leagues while growing up and leaving your teens.
@catfish1957 excepted...he's simply nuts! :beer:
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I ran Track and played Baseball in HS. I couldn't get my jumpshot right (still can't) or I would have been on the Basketball Team, oh yea Trump is still a NY Liberal, @DCPatriot .
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I ran Track and played Baseball in HS. I couldn't get my jumpshot right (still can't) or I would have been on the Basketball Team, oh yea Trump is still a NY Liberal, @DCPatriot .
@corbe
:beer:
This is exactly what the MSM do to Pres. Trump:
I ran Track and played Baseball in HS. I couldn't get my jumpshot right... happy77
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Jazzy.... I too thought having to lose to the rangers was a worst case loss. But..... think about it. How many fans are lucky enough to have their team go to 4 World Series in 7 years, win 2 of them? And actually go to the LCS 7 straight years? Heck the Mariners have been around 50 years, and have yet to make it to the World Series.
We've been blessed with good teams, and have gotten a little to used to and comfortable with winning. Maybe time to share......
Still with that, I hope the Dbacks or Phils embarass these dip sh__'s rangers with a sweep.
You're right and I admit to being spoiled. I still want more. In spite of their black mark of cheating (which I researched to the nth degree to see if I would remain a baseball fan -- I'm still here), we have an awesome ballclub here, and I'm going to ride this wave as long as it lasts. Or until Altuve retires.
I would like to have had better feelings toward the Rangers because I like Bochy and Eovaldi. But those 2 thugs on that team (Simien and Garcia) have left me with a very bad taste in my mouth. I want to see their sorry butts humiliated. But that's just me.
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Watching the 1st inning of this match-up...as the RANGERS go up 2-0.
There is absolutely nothing more beautiful than watching little children decked out in RANGER gear in the stands going BONKERS cheering.
I mean it's Taylor Swift level!! :laugh:
PS: Make that 2-2...Corbin Carroll triples with 2 men on.
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So, last night the Snakes tied the series at 1-1....Score: 9-1
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And being from Texas.
(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/2c/62/47/2c6247f77c0648430465410e1e1efa38--school-logo-arizona-diamondbacks.jpg)
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And being from Texas.
(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/2c/62/47/2c6247f77c0648430465410e1e1efa38--school-logo-arizona-diamondbacks.jpg)
Original colors, no less!
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So, last night the Snakes tied the series at 1-1....Score: 9-1
I slept well after the beatdown. :yowsa:
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And being from Texas.
(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/2c/62/47/2c6247f77c0648430465410e1e1efa38--school-logo-arizona-diamondbacks.jpg)
Ooooooh.... beautiful colors.
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Ooooooh.... beautiful colors.
Yeah, I was pretty pissed when they changed it to a red color scheme.
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Yeah, I was pretty pissed when they changed it to a red color scheme.
@Cyber Liberty
For what reason did they change it? Multiple other teams have red as their color.
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I think it's a damned shame that whenever the outfielder catches the "3rd Out", he doesn't always throw the ball into the stands.
It's the World Series, dude... **nononono*
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@Cyber Liberty
For what reason did they change it? Multiple other teams have red as their color.
New team owner.
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Well, that was a waste of time. 10-0 in the 3rd Inning. Beverly Hillbillies are on.
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AZ just had a bad day in Sports, another Texas Team (Pop's Spurs) just surprised the Suns also @Cyber Liberty
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Care less about the rump rangers. Tney've been our "B" for about a decade now.
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Last night's game was abysmal, and now the Rangers are only one game from taking it all.
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D'Backs, it's tonight or never. Please, please, please put away those punks from Arlington, come back to Texas and then crush them.
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With the Rangers biggest Attention whore out~Garcia, the DB's may have a chance.
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With the Rangers biggest Attention whore out~Garcia, the DB's may have a chance.
He was out last night, too. :shrug:
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He was out last night, too. :shrug:
Didn't matter.
World Champs, Baby!!!
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Didn't matter.
World Champs, Baby!!!
Congratulations!!!!!!!
Still, I'd be amiss not providing a tale of the tape.
Astros. rangers
Years in League 62 63
Winning Pct .501. .476
WS Championships. 2 1
League Championships 5 3
Postseason appearances. 17. 9
No offense, but there are plenty of us south of you, who take offense in your team calling itself "Texas". One team clearly has the advantage.
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I understand the Rangers were the only MLB team not to have a "gay pride night." If so, good for them, and congratulations!
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I understand the Rangers were the only MLB team not to have a "gay pride night." If so, good for them, and congratulations!
Yes, I rooted for the Rangers. Recalling that they were the only team not groveling for LGBT.
God was indeed on their side.
And all because they decided they didn’t want to offend one of their best players. (I.e., it wasn’t all pure moral stand).
This from the Oriole fan who sat in the stands for one of the playoff games against Rangers.
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https://twitter.com/TexasScorecard/status/1719913048041726216
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Texas played better. Last night was pathetic. :shrug:
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http://twitter.com/SphereVegas/status/1720112213963551108
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Congratulations!!!!!!!
Still, I'd be amiss not providing a tale of the tape.
Astros. rangers
Years in League 62 63
Winning Pct .501. .476
WS Championships. 2 1
League Championships 5 3
Postseason appearances. 17. 9
No offense, but there are plenty of us south of you, who take offense in your team calling itself "Texas". One team clearly has the advantage.
If that's the biggest offense, just change the Houston Astros to Texas Astros, @catfish1957. :laugh: No biggie. The 'Stros are a great team.
But we finally won!! :cheerlead: :cheerlead:
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Congratulations!!!!!!!
Still, I'd be amiss not providing a tale of the tape.
Astros. rangers
Years in League 62 63
Winning Pct .501. .476
WS Championships. 2 1
League Championships 5 3
Postseason appearances. 17. 9
No offense, but there are plenty of us south of you, who take offense in your team calling itself "Texas". One team clearly has the advantage.
@catfish1957
I decree that the Silver Boot trophy trumps the WS trophy for 2023. :yowsa:
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I understand the Rangers were the only MLB team not to have a "gay pride night." If so, good for them, and congratulations!
@mountaineer
Yes, I remember that. And kudos to them for making that decision. My friend and I were so PO'd about the Astros observing pride night that we opted to skip baseball for that game. It may not sound like much, but we're faithful watchers.
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@mountaineer
Yes, I remember that. And kudos to them for making that decision. My friend and I were so PO'd about the Astros observing pride night that we opted to skip baseball for that game. It may not sound like much, but we're faithful watchers.
Same here. My hats off to them for the courage to try to buck the trend.
Second point.... As sad as I am that we fell one series short, if that was needed to send Crusty Baker packing? It was worth it.
I will never forget or forgive this POS for wearing BLM T shirts a few years ago.
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Second point.... As sad as I am that we fell one series short, if that was needed to send Crusty Baker packing? It was worth it.
I will never forget or forgive this POS for wearing BLM T shirts a few years ago.
@catfish1957
I never knew that about him. It would certainly have changed my estimation of him.
Although he wasn't A.J., I was fine with him until WS 2022. In all of the media hoopla surrounding the event, one discussion revealed that Dusty was troubled by the fact that there were no African Americans playing on either of the teams. What??! What was MLB expected to do? Employ affirmative action to the teams allowed in the WS? I never saw him in the same light after that. **nononono*
BTW, only because he wears his race on his shoulder, I expect that any criticism of his managing decisions was assumed by him to be based in racism rather than legitimate differences in strategy.
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I thought it would be fun to look at early predictions and compare them with the outcomes. I don't make predictions because it's like trying to hit a bullseye with your eyes closed. You can make educated guesses with all the information you have at the moment you make predictions, but those conditions change throughout the season. Not gonna lie... I NEVER saw the Rangers taking the title, although a few weeks into the season I understood they were a team to be feared. Did anyone else have Rangers at the beginning of the season? Did anyone think the WS game would be Rangers vs. Diamondbacks?
Opening Day in 5 days...
According to predictive stats at Fan Graphs here is how your team stacks up. On opening day hope springs eternal. We all are 0-0.
(Sorry for the spacing)
https://www.fangraphs.com/standings/playoff-odds (https://www.fangraphs.com/standings/playoff-odds)
Team % Chance of winning WS % Chance of making playoffs.
====== ==== ====
Braves 14.8 91.9
Padres 12.0 88.0
Yankees. 10.9. 83.4
Astros 8.8. 79.2
Mets 7.9 79.0
Blue Jays 6.6 71.7
Devil Rays. 5.4 66.8
Cardinals 5.3 72.1
Dodgers 5.1 68.5
Brewers 3.1 57.5
Mariners. 2.9 48.0
Indians. 2.8 54.2
Phillies. 2.7 49.8
Angels 2.2 40.8
Twins 2.0 45.5
Giants 1.9 41.3
Rangers. 1.7 36.1
Red Sox 1.4 30.0
White Sox. 0.9. 27.7
Marlins 0.6 22.4
Diamondbacks. 0.4 13.6
Oiroles 0.3 8.2
Cubs 0.2 10.6
Pirates. 0.1 4.4
Royals 0.0. 4.5
Tigers 0.0. 3.4
Reds 0.0 0.7
Athletics. 0.0 0.6
Rockies 0.0 0.1
Nationals. 0.0 0.1
Yeah I said Indians instead of Guardians on purpose.....
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Got to admit, that even with all the crappy MLB wokeness, I am starting to feel the spring fever of opening day..... Anyone want to prognosticate what we will see this year. Some teams like Toronto really strengthed, while some like the poor Mets just suffered a -4 to 5 WAR with the loss of the closer. Plus as an Astros fan, I know it isn't too smart to bet against Verlander, but at some point he's going to start showing his age. I think they underperform this year.
From my view point this year including seed:
NL
Byes (ATL 1) (LA 2)
WC (MIL 3) v (PHI 6)
(SD 4) v. (SF 5)
AL
Byes (TOR 1) (HOU 2)
WC (MIN 3 v. NYY 6)
(TB 4 v. SEA 5)
NLDS
ATL over PHI
SD over LA
ALDS
TOR over NYY
SEA over HOU. (Yeah, my team, but this team has been subject to bouts of complacency that haunts them sometimes). Seattle would love nothing better to get revenge and rub it in our faces.
LCS
SD over ATL
TOR over SEA
WS
SD over TOR. (And FOX and MLB again are aghast at ratings due to teams in the WS
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https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/astros-to-name-joe-espada-manager-houston-bench-coach-promoted-to-top-job-after-dusty-baker-retires/
I'm great with this!
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I thought it would be fun to look at early predictions and compare them with the outcomes. I don't make predictions because it's like trying to hit a bullseye with your eyes closed. You can make educated guesses with all the information you have at the moment you make predictions, but those conditions change throughout the season.
You are exactly right about predictions and changing conditions and such. Having said that, our friend @catfish1957 actually did quite well with at least one of his prognostications:
And FOX and MLB again are aghast at ratings due to teams in the WS
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It's official..... The A's are relocating to Vegas.
No temptation for gambling scandals of course. /s.
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/nov/16/oakland-as-set-to-move-to-vegas-after-mlb-owners-approve-relocation (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/nov/16/oakland-as-set-to-move-to-vegas-after-mlb-owners-approve-relocation)
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It's official..... The A's are relocating to Vegas.
No temptation for gambling scandals of course. /s.
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/nov/16/oakland-as-set-to-move-to-vegas-after-mlb-owners-approve-relocation (https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/nov/16/oakland-as-set-to-move-to-vegas-after-mlb-owners-approve-relocation)
I hope the new fans don't have a drum brigade. What a miserable experience to watch those games. Unless the game was a pivotal one, I mostly chose to skip A's games.
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I hope the new fans don't have a drum brigade. What a miserable experience to watch those games. Unless the game was a pivotal one, I mostly chose to skip A's games.
Now the Diamondbacks are no longer the team in closest proximity to me! Vegas is a 90 minute drive from here.
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Up for discussion:
Where will Ohtani end up next year?
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Up for discussion:
Where will Ohtani end up next year?
Great question. My early prognistication is either Yankees or Dodgers at somewhere in the vicinity of 10/$600M
I think a lot of how this pans out is how strong and good he comes out of surgery rehab.
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Great question. My early prognistication is either Yankees or Dodgers at somewhere in the vicinity of 10/$600M
I think a lot of how this pans out is how strong and good he comes out of surgery rehab.
Latest on the Ohtani front......
I still have my money on the Stankees.
https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38841002/shohei-ohtani-free-agent-latest-news-updates-analysis (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38841002/shohei-ohtani-free-agent-latest-news-updates-analysis)
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Latest on the Ohtani front......
I still have my money on the Stankees.
https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38841002/shohei-ohtani-free-agent-latest-news-updates-analysis (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38841002/shohei-ohtani-free-agent-latest-news-updates-analysis)
@catfish1957
They've got Soto now. I don't think they get Ohtani. I'm thinking LAD.
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@catfish1957
They've got Soto now. I don't think they get Ohtani. I'm thinking LAD.
Especially since the Dodgers already have strong arms anyway, and could wait an additonal year of Ohtani's pitching arm rehab. Good call, especially since Oriental players typically prefer west coast teams (i.e closer to home)
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Especially since the Dodgers already have strong arms anyway, and could wait an additonal year of Ohtani's pitching arm rehab. Good call, especially since Oriental players typically prefer west coast teams (i.e closer to home)
@catfish1957
"Sources say" we were both wrong.
https://dodgersnation.com/shohei-ohtani-to-sign-with-toronto-blue-jays-over-los-angeles-dodgers-sources/2023/12/08/
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$700M is a staggering contact for a 30 yr old with a bad elbow. The Dodgers are banking on marketability, which is fine by me.
I will be curious to see where Yamamoto lands after this deal.
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$700M is a staggering contact for a 30 yr old with a bad elbow. The Dodgers are banking on marketability, which is fine by me.
I will be curious to see where Yamamoto lands after this deal.
You've got a good assertion there. In my book, no player is worth 7/10 of a Billion Dollars. MLB and Teams OTOH in general , are very quiet, and almost secretive on how much the make in Merch. I'll bet we'd be shocked.
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Jaw-dropping amount of $$$. **nononono*
Baseball is to the point that it can only be enjoyed by the rich. I went to MMP once back in 2019. Didn't buy any refreshments. I don't buy any MLB merch since (1) Rob Manfred is a jerk, (2) the All-Star game got pulled from Atlanta.
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You've got a good assertion there. In my book, no player is worth 7/10 of a Billion Dollars. MLB and Teams OTOH in general , are very quiet, and almost secretive on how much the make in Merch. I'll bet we'd be shocked.
The Braves are the only publicly owned team, so they provide some transparency. Here are the Q3 financials:
https://www.bravesholdings.com/investors/news-events/press-releases/detail/187/atlanta-braves-holdings-reports-third-quarter-2023
Retail and licensing amounted to $45M through September.
I think the Dodgers can anticipate several million dollars a year from Ohtani merchandise, with better ratings and possibly a stronger bargaining position on their next TV deal. It's a massive gamble, but their organization is one of the few that could recover if it goes south.
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The Braves are the only publicly owned team, so they provide some transparency. Here are the Q3 financials:
https://www.bravesholdings.com/investors/news-events/press-releases/detail/187/atlanta-braves-holdings-reports-third-quarter-2023
Retail and licensing amounted to $45M through September.
I think the Dodgers can anticipate several million dollars a year from Ohtani merchandise, with better ratings and possibly a stronger bargaining position on their next TV deal. It's a massive gamble, but their organization is one of the few that could recover if it goes south.
If you count all the teams, that's what I'd guess to be roughly about a Billion. That's actually less than I expected. Hell, I've bought at least $500 'Stros WS merchandise the past 7 or 8 years.
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Matt Taibbi
@mtaibbi
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I'm glad Shohei Ohtani get paid because he deserves it, but soon the best players will be on two teams owned by Lockheed-Martin and Exxon-Mobil, tickets will cost $9000, and fans will take out home equity loans to pay for hot dogs. @MLB has problems
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Matt Taibbi
@mtaibbi
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I'm glad Shohei Ohtani get paid because he deserves it, but soon the best players will be on two teams owned by Lockheed-Martin and Exxon-Mobil, tickets will cost $9000, and fans will take out home equity loans to pay for hot dogs. @MLB has problems
Exxon-Moobil Matt? They aren't even in the Top 10 of the S&P anymore.... 12th. The era of Big Oil is over.
More likely now to cover one of these worthless sponserships?......, one of those over-valued Tech Stocks.
L
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Exxon-Moobil Matt? They aren't even in the Top 10 of the S&P anymore.... 12th. The era of Big Oil is over.
More likely now to cover one of these worthless sponserships?......, one of those over-valued Tech Stocks.
L
Don't know how much different it is today, but back in "USENET" alt-sports-baseball news groups back in the late 90's, it was effectively argued that "Ticket Sales" have absolutely zero effect on player salaries.
It's the television money
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Don't know how much different it is today, but back in "USENET" alt-sports-baseball news groups back in the late 90's, it was effectively argued that "Ticket Sales" have absolutely zero effect on player salaries.
It's the television money
I agree with that. TV spends a TON on sports broadcasting.
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Don't know how much different it is today, but back in "USENET" alt-sports-baseball news groups back in the late 90's, it was effectively argued that "Ticket Sales" have absolutely zero effect on player salaries.
It's the television money
Understand NYY's televison network revenues can keep them competitive and subsidized into infinium. Other teams? Proobably not as much.
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@Cyber Liberty @catfish1957 @Elderberry @cato potatoe @AllThatJazzZ
First thought was, that he wouldn't even have to move. His bedroom stays his bedroom. LOL!
Then thought...WTH would possess him to play in California, with their confiscatory tax structure.
Then I thought...WTH...he was ready to supposedly sign with the Toronto BLUE JAYS! :laugh:
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Surprised no one here posted from 4 days ago.....
LAD wins(?) the Ohtani sweepstakes to the tune of 10/$700M. Fraught with Cap and deferral issues.
https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/39076745/shohei-ohtani-join-dodgers-10-year-700m-deal (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/39076745/shohei-ohtani-join-dodgers-10-year-700m-deal)
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Surprised no one here posted from 4 days ago.....
LAD wins(?) the Ohtani sweepstakes to the tune of 10/$700M. Fraught with Cap and deferral issues.
https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/39076745/shohei-ohtani-join-dodgers-10-year-700m-deal (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/39076745/shohei-ohtani-join-dodgers-10-year-700m-deal)
Was listening to the guys on "Locked on Astros" discuss this a couple of days ago. **nononono*
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(https://i.ibb.co/G3DR9Mj/406850427-685295210440890-4522923720680783095-n.jpg)
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The Dodgers just piled 9 figure contracts on Glasnow and Yamamoto. They are going to bring a salary cap to MLB if this continues.
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This in a nutshell is why I don't watch MLB. The large cities with the big bucks can field the strongest teams. Like Miami did years ago, they won the world series only to have to trade most of their players away, since they couldn't afford to pay them. I'd rather watch college sports, even though now they are getting paid also, which is pitiful. Guess I'll be watching more high school sports now.
I think the LAD's are getting frustrated. They've sunk a boat load of money into talent, and only have the bastardized 2020 COVID WS win to show for it since 1988.
If I was the owner, I'd be pissed too. So....... 2024? "ALL IN"
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This in a nutshell is why I don't watch MLB. The large cities with the big bucks can field the strongest teams. Like Miami did years ago, they won the world series only to have to trade most of their players away, since they couldn't afford to pay them. I'd rather watch college sports, even though now they are getting paid also, which is pitiful. Guess I'll be watching more high school sports now.
They have ruined a game I once loved with money and asinine rules. They can ALL KMA!
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They have ruined a game I once loved with money and asinine rules. They can ALL KMA!
Same here, but still get interested at playoff time, and only if the 'Stros are in the post season. Haven't been to Minute Maid Park since about 2006, after decent box seats past the $40/ea. mark. And $10 for a beer. Not making any plans to go back soon, no telling what they cost now
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Same here, but still get interested at playoff time, and only if the 'Stros are in the post season. Haven't been to Minute Maid Park since about 2006, after decent box seats past the $40/ea. mark. And $10 for a beer. Not making any plans to go back soon, no telling what they cost now
I have zero interest in any pro sport other than golf and rodeo now. I still love college football and baseball but they are determined to ruin that for me as well.