A Team Effort: Cubs 7, Orioles 4
by Al Yellon on Jun 26, 2008 8:24 AM CDT
in Chicago Cubs Recaps
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PrintThis recap is going to be pretty short because: a) my computer kept crashing this morning any time I opened IE, so I finally gave up and am using Firefox for this; b) there's going to be another game thread up in a couple of hours for the day game today; and c) the Cubs made quick work of the Orioles 7-4 last night.
That's not completely true -- Ted Lilly kept trying to put Baltimore back into the game by giving up two-run homers to Jay Payton, a pair of them; but the six runs the Cubs scored in the first two innings were enough to compensate for that. Lilly didn't have his "A" game, or as Mike said to me last night, even his "B" game -- but his "C" game was enough to make it through seven innings, allowing only five hits (two of them the Payton HR) and four runs.
That helped save most of the bullpen (Scott Eyre has thrown about 500 pitches there this homestand without getting into a single game), and things seem to be getting back to normal for Carlos Marmol -- he was far closer to the strike zone last night, looking like the dominating Marmol of the first two months (16 strikes in 21 pitches) and Kerry Wood was completely unhittable, hitting 98 a couple of times on the perhaps admittedly biased Wrigley radar gun, striking out the side in the 9th for his 20th save.
Every starting Cub reached base at least once last night and only Eric Patterson (who walked for his only on-base appearance) didn't have a hit. The biggest blows were Geovany Soto's two-run single in the first inning and another HR from the apparently-rejuvenated Jim Edmonds, who is now hitting .305/.376/.622 as a Cub in 82 at-bats, including six doubles, a triple and six home runs.
A few things, though, worry me about a win that looks real good statistically: first, as good as the offense looked, they stranded a ton of runners -- fourteen men left on base, including leaving the bases loaded in the second and eighth. With 12 hits and 10 walks, the Cubs ought to have scored at least three or four more runs and put the game far out of reach. Derrek Lee grounded into another double play -- that's sixteen for him, on pace for 32, which would be third-most in major league history (Lee is tied with the Dodgers' James Loney for the most in the majors so far this year). And, Kosuke Fukudome, who was in the original starting lineup (last night, former Vine Line editor Jim McArdle, who's working on a book for this season, came to sit with us and had the early lineup on his scorecard -- I copied it, but it changed by the time it was announced; also had to switch Baltimore's starter when the original starter from the preview, Brian Burres, was switched out for Matt Albers, who didn't make it past the fifth Cub hitter before he was lifted with shoulder trouble), had to be scratched with tightness in his left calf. In his postgame news conference, Lou said that rather than starting today, Dome is "day-to-day", which could mean anything. I doubt you'll see him today and given that statement, he might wind up missing some time this weekend on the South Side, too.
I guess we shouldn't complain too much, right? Did you ever think you'd see me thank Gary Sheffield here? Thanks, Gary. Sheffield's 9th-inning single gave the Tigers an 8-7 rain-delayed win over the Cardinals, increasing the Cubs' lead to 4.5 games.
Two more notes from around baseball, passed along without further comment, and then I'm done and on to the pregame thread, which will post at 11:30:
- Astros pitcher Shawn Chacon has been suspended by the team for physically assaulting GM Ed Wade when Wade wanted to discuss Chacon's demotion to the bullpen.
- Barry Bonds won't play for an independent league team and his agent now claims he'll play for the minimum salary, with proceeds donated to "buy tickets for children". No, sorry, I have to comment here. You believe that? I don't.
Onward. Let's win this series.
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Cubs fans love Jim Edmonds and...
...Al is thanking Gary Sheffield!?
I think the world is going to start spinning in the other direction!
By the way, I think Carlos got his mojo back last night!
And
Barry plays for free. Next thing you know Reggie Jackson will be humble and Ricky Henderson will no longer speak in the third person.
Bonds playing for "free" is
an ugly and cynical ploy. He doesn’t belong in baseball.
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
SECONDED!!!!!
Kick the bum out!
These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"
i'm sorry but this is crap
barry is one of HUNDREDS of major leaguers, many of which still play the freaking game, who used steroids. he is unquestionably great and has been unfairly scapegoated because of his staggering achievements. No place in baseball for barry? true, i agree – but then you would have to get EVERYONE else out also.
Not possible. Barry should be playing, and so should sosa and jay gibbons and all these other scapegoats until the sport is truly cleaned up (if that will ever happen…). amazing how people can just throw one or two guys under the bus w/no mention of the countless other cheaters that we KNOW are out there (why do ankiel, guillen, and cameron still get to play?).
"I'll play any day. I don't care if I'm 0-for-30, playing baseball is my PASSION. I'll go out and play." - Geo Soto
by CubbyBlues on Jun 26, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
+1
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
LSA...
Just because the guy has a bad attitude, partly due to his treatment by fans and the media, is no reason to shun him from baseball. So it’s okay to cheat as long as you don’t break sacred records?
"Remember each day this year, where you were, what you were doing, who you were with, how you felt as the Cubs win their way through it. Because if this does turn out to be the promised land we have all been waiting for, you will want to remember, savor, cherish every moment..."
by CubsBullsBears on Jun 26, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions
Even if this is how you feel
Bonds is not the player he once was. Nobody’s gonna want him to start in left so that pretty much leaves only the AL.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Exactly
He can only be a DH now and there are no teams that need a DH. You can make an argument for Tampa or Toronto, but I don’t see either of those two teams taking him on.
Toronto released Frank Thomas partially because of his clubhouse demeanor so there is no way Barry fits in. Tampa maybe.
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions
Umm...
Seattle, Toronto, Baltimore, Cleveland (until Hafner comes back), and Tampa could all use a power bat, especially a lefty power bat.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
I agree they all could use a power bat.
No argument there, but IMHO those teams won’t make a play for Bonds.
Seattle is going through a horrible stretch. They have overpriced players that they have no ideal what to do with Johjima, Sexson, etc. If anything I think they are sellers and try to salvage a future.
Toronto, won’t sign him. My reasoning is above.
Cleveland, you said it yourself, they have Hafner. Why would they go out and sign another power bat that they would just release or bench when Hafner gets back?
Tampa, I can’t argue with you on that one. The only thing I can see is that they shot down rumors of acquiring Bonds earlier in the season, and I don’t think the way they’ve played so far deems the acquisition of Bonds necessary.
I agree there are teams out there that could use a power bat, and frankly I am surprised someone didn’t take a flyer on him earlier. I just don’t see it happening if it hasn’t already. Stranger things have happened though.
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions
I would say
yes. Yes he is.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't think you're right, though.
Bonds can’t play the field every day, but if Adam Dunn can play left, Bonds certainly can.
Wouldn't be the first time I was wrong.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions
Moises is probably better afield, but just as injury prone.
Without any numbers in front of me I’d say Bonds-Duncan-Dunn is pretty much a push, depending on the park.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
by gary varsho on Jun 26, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Clubhouse issue
I cannot stand Bonds. You have a player here that will not admit to using steroids when there is overwhelming evidence of his use. He’s being prosecuted for perjury!! Plus, he’s an arrogant bastard who plays the martyr role every time something bad happens to him. Until he stands up and shows some speck of class, I will boo him and want no part of him in MLB….
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
His jackassery in the clubhouse
and his pending legal case are legit reasons for teams to stay away; the steroid issue is not.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
I doubt the steroid issue,
beyond the perjury, is what is keeping him out. Age, health, increased press pressure, clubhouse factor, etc. are more the issues keeping anyong from pursuing him. Until this play for the minimum stuff, I would have also said $$$ for a part time player.
Jackassery.
I like it.
"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young
How many players HAVE admitted to taking steriods?
One?
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Please....
Ken Caminiti
Bobby Estalella
Jason Giambi
Jeremy Giambi
Armando Rios
Benito Santiago
Gary Sheffield
Jose Canseco
Tom House
Wally Joyner
Jim Leyritz
Paxton Crawford
Jason Grimsley
David Segui
John Rocker
Paul Byrd
Shane Monahan
To name a few….
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions
I should have been more specific...
...not retired or dead. 3?
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions
Clemons never admitted it, did he?
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions
that she took steriods for the SI covershoot...did she out her husband?
I’m not sure.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions
not covershoot, swimsuit issue. doh.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
I Meant
that she took steroids. And also that Rog threw her under the bus when the hounds were closing in.
But Roger has never admitted it.
Not exactly the same, but if Clemens wanted to pitch tomorrow, someone would sign him. How are Barry and Rogers’ situations all that different?
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions
My response did not stem from the steroid issue
but from the cynicism of his offer to play for minimum and to donate the proceeds for childrens’ tickets. In my view this ploy reeks of self-interest and rotten character.
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
How?
How is donating his salary self-interest? I’d say his willing to take a minimum salary is more an act of desperation than self-interest. The man just wants to play.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions
no
the man wants to rehabilitate his image.
I’m not saying it’s bad to want to do that, but let’s be clear about what it is he’s doing.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions
the only way to be clear is to read Barry's mind...
..and Lord knows I don’t want to visit that neighborhood. We’re both just speculating, true?
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions
Absolutely agree.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 26, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions
So the indictments for
perjury and obstruction of justice don’t count? Don’t recall hearing about Sosa or Gibbons or any other “scapegoat” being indicted by the Feds.
Football and basketball are just things to do between baseball seasons.
Sosa has NEVER been mentioned as a steroid user..
never tested, not mentioned even in passing except by those who KNOW he did, of course, because he grew…..Shit, even Canseco, who would name ANYONE, true or not, hasn’t mentioned Sammy. Also, to let Marquis have is number…..well, let me say I am SO glad that number 600 came off a Cub wearing his number.
by crazymountain on Jun 26, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions
That's assuming that a corked bat helps you at all
which is highly debatable
Zambrano viciously attacked a pair of watercoolers for the crime of being within his line of vision. It was a classic battle of man versus inanimate object.
i agree.
it seems ridiculous to me that people want to burn barry bonds at the stake for “cheating” and do whatever they can to keep the man from being able to play the game ever again… We’re talking about one of the most important baseball players in history here folks.. he’s the freaking Home Run King…. I understand that with the name Barry Bonds comes suspicion of cheating and being untruthful, but NONE of these allegations have ever been proven true… If someone were to come out today and claim that Michael Jordan had used steroids, would we all want to brand him with an asterisk and say he wasn’t one of the greatest to play his game? ... i think, cheater or not, barry bonds still has the TALENT to hit 762 home runs… the juice doesn’t help you put good wood on a ball that’s wizzing by at 95+ mph…
by ThisIsResolute on Jun 26, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions
Did you read "Game Of Shadows"?
I think it leaves little doubt that Barry, Sammy, Mark and others were playing a different game.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 26, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions
You ever heard the David Cross bit?
“Pick up the phone, Ricky!”
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions
Thanks to Sheff
also from that game, I thought it was hilarious to see Todd Jones’ impersonation of Maggs. One becuase he did a good job of it, and two, because I never would have pictured him to be a jokester. Maybe it’s the mustache.
Go ahead, Z me.
Todd Jones...
... once came into the bleachers during batting practice and sat in front of us for a few minutes… in full uniform. This was while he was with the Rockies, so it was either 2002 or 2003.
I had to point it out twice to my friend Phil, who thought it was just some guy wearing a Todd Jones jersey. I said, “No, Phil, that IS Todd Jones.”
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
just call him
DP DLee. Its so annoying to watch grounder after grounder. Its to the point where I dont even want him up in crucial situations. Id rather him just lead off innings rather than come up with runners on. Im sure he will pick it up eventually, he seems so streaky, one day anything in the strike zone is a smoked line drive or fly ball outa here, the next day he cant buy a fly ball. Elevation please!
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 40 BB to 41 K's. Im not sure who the last Cub to have more bb's than k's was, but Im sure it was a very long time ago.
"I dont even want him up in crucial situations"
To me, this is ridiculous. I can’t really say anything more than that.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
say what you will
he has not come through lately and has turned into double play derrek, your friendly neighborhood rally killer.
like i said, he will come out of it, on July 26th i want him up with first and third one out. This afternoon? I hope its someone elses turn in the lineup
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
Nooo!
I can just hear all the Sox fans chanting that this coming weekend. Wouldn’t it be nice to go inside his head and see what he’s trying to do? Is he trying to drive the ball into the gaps? Is he swinging for the fences? Is he protecting?
Go ahead, Z me.
i dont think hes thinking at all
i think hes just in a funk, he needs to do some homework, watch some video (maybe he is who knows?) all i know is that his swing does not allow elevation lately.
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
You said it yourself, a funk
No reason to stop wanting him to come up with RISP. He’s a good hitter, he will break out of it. I think it’s silly to NOT give him the opportunity to break out of it.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
im all about
winning todays game. two weeks from now maybe he’s out of it, maybe he gets out of it today? who knows. he’ll get his opportunities, and hopefully he takes advantage, but the way he’s looked lately it just seems chances are better he’ll be out of this in two weeks rather than this afternoon.
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
6-4 in last 10 so in spite of his woes
they are still winning games.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Exactly.
As has been mentioned many times, this is not a team built around one star: everybody plays, and when one goes down someone’s there to pick him up.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions
I prefer that there be runners only on second and/or third when he comes up
That makes the DP out of the question.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
haha
ok im with you there
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
At what point does a "slump" become an "off season"?
I love D-Lee as much as anybody and I know what he means to this club but he’s been having these problems with groundballs and strikeouts since around mid-May. The way he’s being handled is so obvious-with runners on pitch him low and away and he’ll either A)strike out or B)hit into a double play. He’s killing us in the 3 hole-right now the Cubs winning in spite but at some point (like the playoffs) this is going to catch up with them. I’ve been advocating for a long time moving him down in the order for awhile and taking some of the pressure off. The number three spot is for our best hitter and right now that isn’t him.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 26, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions
Low and away
Getting the extra lefties in the lineup was supposed to fix this problem. Lou wanted the extra lefties in there so that D-Lee wouldn’t get worked over in just those spots.
Anyway, give him a little time here. Through April he hit .364/.437/.682. I’d be willing to wager he has another month or two like that before the season is out. Over the past 10 games he is hitting .395/.489/.553.
I agree, Rami is our best....
hit Rami 3rd, put Edmonds (man this crow is gettin chewy!!) 4th and Lee 5th…..
by crazymountain on Jun 26, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions
talk to Theriot.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions
Completely ridiculous man.
"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young
you're right, it's ridiculous
we should have a better starting shortstop.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions
Sigh. Once more:
Derrek Lee, 2008:
RiSP: .284/.356/.378
Late and Close: .278/.355/.481
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
man on 3rd less than 2 out
.267/.300/.400
pick and chose your stats, the fact is he is not currently driving the ball.
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
Derrek Lee, SLG%
Last 28 days: .430
Last 14 days: .500
Last 7 days: .583
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
ha i know you got me
i had not seen those but responded to your post below about the slugging. i stand corrected, the eye deceives.
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
The only reason I had them on hand
is because I had the same suspicion, that he had not been driving the ball of late. This is one of those cases where I liked being wrong.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
even though it rarely happens? ;c-)
I'm a good speller, but my typing creates a SERIOUS vacuum. (especially while I'm at work sticking it to the man)
Well with a man on 3rd and less than 2 outs, he doesn't even need a hit to get the runner in.
If you want to look at his effectiveness as a run producer in the particular situation of man on 3rd with less than 2 outs, I think comparing RBI over total chances would better show whether or not he’s been successful.
That's not a DP situation.
What exactly is your gripe?
These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"
Gary --
Can I ask how you find these stats? Which website is the best for organizing and figuring out these kind of things?
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
Some Signs Of Life
In one at bat last night he hit a liner up the middle, and it seems he’s done the same the past week or so. If he continues this approach – not pulling the ball, trying to hit liners up the box and the other way – he’ll snap out of it.
I think he is injured in some way....
the ball just does not come off his bat as it did earlier in the year…..
by crazymountain on Jun 26, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions
LOB
I’m not too bothered by high LOB in games like this – having high LOB is a reflection of having high OBP, which in general means that we’re scoring runs. You usually win when you score 7 runs.
Zambrano viciously attacked a pair of watercoolers for the crime of being within his line of vision. It was a classic battle of man versus inanimate object.
True enough.
But the game should have been put far out of reach by the fourth inning, and it wasn’t.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Not to mention the loss, bases loaded 0 out in the 9th....
by crazymountain on Jun 26, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions
The only player who truly disappointed me there was Dome
Not because he failed and is forever in a slump or whatever, but because it was an uncharacteristically bad at bat.
These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"
Heroism?
The Tuesday night game saw the Cubs whiff three straight times with the bases loaded in the btm of the 9th, and last night Fontenot made out #2 (in the 7th?) by K’ing with the sacks full. A case of guys trying to do it all by themselves? Or maybe they realize how bad they’ve been with the bases loaded so they’re trying too hard to rectify that?
10 of those were Fontenot
Now, I love sneaky hamster power as much as the next cubs fan, but dude. 10!!! Really?!
These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"
Cubs radar
FWIW
I sit in section 19 occassionally next to the scouts who are there with radar guns. They say that Wrigley’s radar is very accurate (although on TV last night Wood never got over 97 m.p.h.)
Thanks for this note.
97 or 98, Wood was bringing it last night. That may have been his most dominant save yet.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
TV radar
The MLB feed with Len and Bob definitely had Wood at 98 mph on several pitches.
by John Q Freejazz on Jun 26, 2008 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions
IT assistance for Al
Hey Al, being an IT specialist, I have had several computers at my company perform exactly how you described as of late. The fix that has worked for all of these was to go to the control panel, open up internet settings, go to the advanced tab, and “restore advanced settings” as well as “Reset Internet Explorer Settings”. I cannot promise that will work for you, but I have a hunch that it will.
Thanks, I'll try that.
However, does that reset things like bookmarks and other IE settings?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Bookmarks, no
other IE settings yes. It won’t change your internet connection settings, but it will change your home page, and any add ons that you may have.
OK, thanks.
I don’t have too many add-ons and it’s easy enough to change your home page back.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
It will reset
your security settings to default and also your active-x settings, basically if you haven’t messed with any advanced settings in IE you should be fine.
I just did it.
Seems to be working better. Many thanks!!
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
No problem my friend.
I wish I knew what caused it in the first place, but it seems to be very widespread.
May be a bug in the way IE7 is constructed...
... after using it for a while, it becomes unstable. Hope they fix this in IE8.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Yes, some of our computers
still have IE 6, and I know that the only ones that have had problems were the IE7 ones. Sorry for such a long OT thread.
My IE just crashed
when I clicked on the link to the Barry Bonds story. What do you think caused that?
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
M$
just use Firefox. It is a better browser anyway.
"In football the object is for the quarterback, also known as the
field general, to be on target with his aerial assault, riddling the
defense by hitting his receivers with deadly accuracy in spite of the
blitz, even if he has to use the shotgun. With short bullet passes and
long bombs, he marches his troops into enemy territory, balancing this
aerial assault with a sustained ground attack that punches holes in
the forward wall of the enemy's defensive line.
"In baseball the object is to go home! And to be safe! - I hope I'll
be safe at home!"
by bubbamike the one and only on Jun 26, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions
So it wasn't the content in the link?
Yeah, I have Firefox too. I’ve kept IE as my main browser because I need web access to MS Outlook for work and it sucks in FIrefox (wonder why?).
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
I use OWA in Firefox
and don’t have any problems. I really like FF3 a lot. Very fast and a nice interface.
"In football the object is for the quarterback, also known as the
field general, to be on target with his aerial assault, riddling the
defense by hitting his receivers with deadly accuracy in spite of the
blitz, even if he has to use the shotgun. With short bullet passes and
long bombs, he marches his troops into enemy territory, balancing this
aerial assault with a sustained ground attack that punches holes in
the forward wall of the enemy's defensive line.
"In baseball the object is to go home! And to be safe! - I hope I'll
be safe at home!"
by bubbamike the one and only on Jun 26, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions
When I try it
My view is different (message headers only, no message pane), and the toolbar that has the options for fixing that is missing.
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
Also
Everything on the page (all the headers and even menus) is displayed in Times New Roman which looks horrible.
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
Something's wrong with your browser settings, then.
Better check them.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Agreed. Opera also is much better than IE
by crazymountain on Jun 26, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions
I always think of Opera
as this speedy little ferrari of a browser
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
That Chacon
thing is very strange, but there is one positive. It pushed to the top of the Yahoo MLB news feed and beat out Wakefield beats Johnson, BoSox Win and my favorite, JOBA gets his first win.
Boy now that's a career move
Smackdown your boss after being properly demoted for being a sub par professional baseball player.
He’ll be looking for work soon and I don’t think Jim Hendry’s going to return any of his calls.
Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!
LOLOL!! Someone to partner up with Pacman and TO
I'm a good speller, but my typing creates a SERIOUS vacuum. (especially while I'm at work sticking it to the man)
Ever consider switching Lee and Ramirez?
Derrek Lee continues to hit into double plays which are blows to the team. Obviously he’s helped out more with his HR’s and hits but still double plays are big blows. What if he were to switch with Ramirez and be the #4 hitter. Aramis is less likely to hit into a double play and could get some more RBI’s. I don’t think this is a major problem yet but down the stretch and definitely playoff games the DP could become an issue.
Hopefully Lee is out of whatever he is in
and we won’t be talking about this down the stretch or in the playoffs.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Lee is troubling ..
Is he just trying too hard? Is he pushing to get back to his 2005 form? What is the problem?
The man is a hoss and I actually have come to dread seeing him bat almost as much as Ronnie Cedeno. Most disturbing to this old Cub fan .. .
Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!
Let's not go overboard here.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Problem is that Lee HAS been looking like Cedeno for awhile now
How long are we going to keep telling ourselves that “he’ll eventually come out of it”? It’s not going to happen until he shows opposing pitchers that he’s not going to consistently bite on low, outide breaking stuff.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions
Lee is not Cedeno...
As in the words of sweet Lou “let’s leave it at that.” Have a little faith.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Sigh. Again:
Derrek Lee, last 28 days: .290/.364/.430
—-—-—-, last 14 days: .348/.455/.500
—-—-—-, last 7 days: .417/.481/.583
Ronny Cedeno, last 28 days: .138/.167/.138
—-—-—-—-, last 14 days: .133/.188/.133
_, last 7 days: .000/.000/.000
Now, to be sure, there are sampling issues here, but to say Derrek has looked like Ronny is just plain wrong.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
'zactly
He’s hitting well the last few weeks. It’s just the DPs that are out of whack.
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
I heard that the Cubs...
take $200 away from the JDRF everytime DLee hits into a DP. Is that true?
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jun 26, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions
Great promotion
And the Cubs can use the proceeds to put more lucrative fixed seats into the wheelchair area under the WGN radio booth.
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
those are nice to see
especially the slugging, thats surprising, the way he has looked i would not have guessed a .583 slug in the last week.
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
As drewish
said yesterday, Lee’s DP problem is simple: TheRiot. If TheRiot could just not be such a singles machine, DLee would not be enticed into so many DPs. See? It’s TheRiot’s fault because he’s such a terrible player.
"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young
Hence
You switch Fukudome and Theriot’s spot in the order, and when Soriano returns then Dome bats 2nd and Theriot bats 8th.
+1
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions
I know you mean this with Sarcasm,
but you may be onto something there. TheRiot’s on a tear and has been an obp machine, but only to first. So, Lee has frequent opportunities with TheRiot on first, more opportunities to make two outs. Comments below on Dome to #2 and Riot to 8 just came up and I agree.
wel,
I’m on to something, not him. :P Riot can’t hit for power—he hit a double yesterday, and I literally not remember the last time he had one before that. His running hasn’t exactly been stellar, he’s not stealing well. It makes DLee’s ground-outs almost certain DPs.
I’m not suggesting that Lee doesn’t need to get better - he does, although Varsho’s stats clearly show he’s not exactly in the toilet. He does need to get better. But he can’t hit into a double-play all by himself - the runner has to be at first.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions
So if no one ever gets on base
in front of Lee then we’ve solved the DP problem.
My head Asplodes!
"In football the object is for the quarterback, also known as the
field general, to be on target with his aerial assault, riddling the
defense by hitting his receivers with deadly accuracy in spite of the
blitz, even if he has to use the shotgun. With short bullet passes and
long bombs, he marches his troops into enemy territory, balancing this
aerial assault with a sustained ground attack that punches holes in
the forward wall of the enemy's defensive line.
"In baseball the object is to go home! And to be safe! - I hope I'll
be safe at home!"
by bubbamike the one and only on Jun 26, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions
Exactly
Maybe he should leadoff, eh?
I was being sarcastic above, btw. I don’t see how TheRiot doing a good job of getting on base can be bent into a negative because Lee can’t hit behind runners occasionally. I’m just responding to the TheRiot hate around here. He’s not the best player, but he’s playing extremely well this season and he’s been an important tool in this offense. To place blame on him for Lee’s DPs is absurd. If ANYONE’S on first with Lee up, it’ll be a DP.
"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young
no one hates Theriot.
I simply prefer he be in the right position for the team—replacement infielder off the bench.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions
+1
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 26, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions
no.
well, I suppose, but that’s obviously not effective.
However if the person batting before Lee had a better slugging percentage, they might actually be able to get to second on their own AB—which would mean that Lee would be driving them to third on those grounders.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions
I would LOVE to see that happen
if for no other reason than the simple one that Ramirez is our best hitter right now and should be in the 3 hole. I’m not sold on Lee cleaning up but he can’t do any worse than he is right now.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 26, 2008 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions
Not to hijack thread and did not think this was worth a new fan post
But I just heard Buster Olney interviewed on a KC sports radio show this AM and they talked about CC.
Olney said as of yesterday, CC was not on market but with last night’s loss to Giants and the fact that the Indians are now in last place behind the Royals in the Central he may just be on market now.
Said you need two things to get CC. Motivation and prospects. Said Brewers were leader in hunt due to having both. Said Cubs also were in the hunt but don’t have the prospects Brewers do.
Interestingly he noted that the Red Soxs and Rays are the wildcards in the hunt. Said if Boston feels they need one more pitcher to win they will go after him hard and the ultimate dark horse is the Rays. Mentioned imagining CC on the Rays pitching staff and said it would be the arguably the best pitching staff in baseball and they would likely run away with the division if that deal took place.
FYI…
The one thing I don't want Hendry to do is get into a prospect bidding war with the Brewers
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
I don't know.
I really don’t like the idea of the running sausages getting CC for any part of this year.
I don't either.
I read the article too and the Tampa thing—well, it’s possible if they want to make a run for it. As the article said, the Rays could deal top prospects (including Reid Brignac) for CC and STILL have the best farm system in baseball after that.
If they do that, everyone in the AL should fear the Rays.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
When I say prospect bidding war, I mean Hendry getting into it a little too much and offering
Somebody on the major league club. Maybe thinking Cedeno can take over for Theriot and offer him or something like that. All minor leaguers are fair game IMO.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
The only team regularly reported with pitching to trade
that might consider trading for Theriot is Seattle. Oakland, Toronto, and Cleveland would all steer far, far away.
Once again
I think Yuniesky Betancourt would look splendid in Cubbie Blue!
"I lof to hit de home ron!"
But...
I don’t think the Brewers will give up their top prospects for a 2 month rental. So, yeah, to Cleveland they may be the leader because they have some great talent. Whether the Brewers will give them up is another.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Also...
I don’t think the Brewers will be quick to give up Gamel and LaPorta. Gamel plays 3rd which is a hole for them right now. LaPorta is a 1st baseman. With the uncertainty of Prince, I doubt they will get rid of a guy who could be potentially better. MHO
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Crazy thought here...
...but do you think Hendry will get into a “prospect bidding war” with the Brewers for CC fully aware that he can’t win, just so the Brewers trade away more of their future? It would be hard to see CC pitching anywhere in the National League, especially in our division, but long term it might not be so bad to see the Brewers trade away some of their promising young guys out of the division.
Just a thought…
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions
Its possible, but...
sounds like an old sitcom script. Jack bids up the “item” to help Mr. Roper and gets too enthusiastic and is stuck with said “item.” Hilarity follows.
it's an interesting thought
especially considering that the brewers will NOT be able to afford to sign Sabbathia after this season, so he’s definitely a rental for them (that’s also the main reason I doubt they trade for him in the first place). Even more interesting, if you’re the Brew, why not trade one player you can’t afford to keep (Fielder) for another (CC) if it makes you better? Largely I suppose that won’t happen because if Clevland can’t afford to sign CC long term, they also probably can’t afford to keep Fielder long term either
by philadelphiacub on Jun 26, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions
True
I don’t see the Brewers making a play for CC. I think they are entering in the talks to drive the price up on the Cubs, much like the Yankees and the Red Sox do.
You bring up an interesting angle for the Brew, trading one expensive star for the other, but as you said, I just don’t see that happening either.
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions
I agree and, if Hendry and Shapiro haven't talked yet
I would really be surprised. Hendry can afford to sign CC, Milwaukee and Cleveland can’t.
by crazymountain on Jun 26, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions
Aren't you really just trying to say
that Miller Park can’t physically support both Sabathia and Fielder on the field at the same time?
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions
Prince going vegetarian may have
messed up the karma at beer & brat field. To have to reinforce the playing surface would further the cosmic shift.
I don't know if there is enough fabrick in Wisconsin.
How baggy they both wear their uniforms would put a strain on the equipment guys that’s for sure.
(thought I was going to make a size joke. Didn’t you neverAcquiesce? : )
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions
Even I'm surprised sometimes.
Still, a baggy uniform on a big guy consists of more fabric than a baggy uniform on, say, me. So you’re still calling them fat.
:D
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions
Touche`
Knew I couldn’t get away with that one ; )
Just didn’t want to get into a discussion on sizeism…
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions
Oh, it's not!
In fact, it’s anti-sizeism if so many teams are clamoring for the big guy. Hell, Zambrano’s no stick.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions
"Anti-sizeism"
I like that, I like that alot…
Next offday topic: The All-Time Anti-Sizeism Team.
I think the Fielders would be well represented.
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions
You know it.
Ruth, Puckett, Kruk…
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions
I like it
Prince, 1B
2B – Augie Ojeda? (not many big guys, so go opposite)
SS?
3B?
Cecil DH.
Pucket, Dunn, Barry (fully juiced) OF
Ruth, Wells, Tiant, Schilling (ego) SPs
Jenks for Closer
LMAO!!
That is a whole other team right there! Schilling is cpt!
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions
For a hefty 2B
Just use 2006-era Neifi.
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
Neifi for sure on that team!
Cubs Win!! Cubs Win!
by Ihatethecards on Jun 26, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions
Can Rich Garces
Be the setup man for Jenks? Anytime El Guapo is involved it can’t be a bad thing.
i hear
gamel is just plain bad defensively and would be a nice 1B/DH in the AL.
I dont see the brewers going after him either. a small market team like that needs as many young, cost-controlled players as they can get. buying a rental with no real shot at signing him long term and giving up key pieces would not be a good move for that team.
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
I would be very surprised if the Brewers made a big splash too.
Sheets already said he’s testing free agency. To trade a bunch of prospects then lose CC and Sheets would put that franchise back a little.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Motivation means
the willingness to trade those prospects for CC
"In football the object is for the quarterback, also known as the
field general, to be on target with his aerial assault, riddling the
defense by hitting his receivers with deadly accuracy in spite of the
blitz, even if he has to use the shotgun. With short bullet passes and
long bombs, he marches his troops into enemy territory, balancing this
aerial assault with a sustained ground attack that punches holes in
the forward wall of the enemy's defensive line.
"In baseball the object is to go home! And to be safe! - I hope I'll
be safe at home!"
by bubbamike the one and only on Jun 26, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions
How Much $$$ Can Hendry Give
in lieu of prospects? Money is where the Cubs have the Brewers beat, and if the limit isn’t too low then Hendry can offer that in exchange for CC.
I don't think you can give money unless
it is to cover a contract. Baseball does not let you “sell” players .
Just ask Charley Finley. When you hear player X was traded for player Y and
“cash” or cash considerations it is just a polite way of saying team is picking up
a chunk of player X’s bloated salary. So no the Cubs can’t trade the Indians
Gallagher and 5 million dollars.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
by Doggie Stalker on Jun 26, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions
This and that
I wouldn’t worry about the LOB. There’s no reason to believe something systematic is going on here… if the Cubs continue to be as consistent as they have been getting men on they will keep scoring runs.
As far as Lee, his double plays are definitely a cause of concern. Even more so is the fact that Lee is playing to career norms. I think we have all been spoiled by his 2005 campaign. Fact is, in his many seasons Lee has only produced an OPS above .900 two times, 2005 and 2007. Everything else has been incredibly similar to the way he is performing now. Perhaps we are expecting more than he is capable of.
Wood has a 6:1 K/BB ratio. I would have never predicted that. Ever.
That K/BB ratio...
... is one of the reasons for his success.
If you take Opening Day off his record, Wood’s ERA is 1.86, and he has allowed only ONE home run all season—to Jason Bay of the Pirates in a game the Cubs wound up winning anyway.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Lee's career norms
Remember, Lee’s career pre-Cubs was in FL where their park eats slugging up. 2005 was his career year, but 2007 has the identical OPS+ (131) as his 2002 and 2003 years.
OT: Laziest Photoshop Job Ever
On the front page of the ChicagoSports website right now (the one with Stern and ?)
http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jun 26, 2008 9:15 AM CDT reply actions
Going on the build and the hat style, I'd say that's Elton Brand
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
Or QuestionMark man
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
felix is probably better at basketball anyway
maybe he could pull the reverse jordan and go play for the bulls for a while…?
SWL is rolling in his grave.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions
I heard his plane was shot down over the Sea of Japan.
It spun in.
There were no survivors.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions
you're a troll.
that’s what it’s for.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions
Maybe, maybe not
but you might consider letting it drop. You won’t win an argument if he is. It is like arguing with the Sox dude, you will never get him to admit anything so it is best to just let him jibber jabber.
"In football the object is for the quarterback, also known as the
field general, to be on target with his aerial assault, riddling the
defense by hitting his receivers with deadly accuracy in spite of the
blitz, even if he has to use the shotgun. With short bullet passes and
long bombs, he marches his troops into enemy territory, balancing this
aerial assault with a sustained ground attack that punches holes in
the forward wall of the enemy's defensive line.
"In baseball the object is to go home! And to be safe! - I hope I'll
be safe at home!"
by bubbamike the one and only on Jun 26, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't care what he admits
I’m gonna call him what he is.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Slow news day? Gimme a freakin’ break. Would you prefer to see the Cubs cleanup hitter miss two to four weeks with a broken collarbone or nose – or, worse yet, sustain an eye injury – because he stepped in front of a shot like that? I wouldn’t. As Len Kasper mentions in the clip, the infield was hard as a rock, so, with no runners on base, Aramis was probably just playing it safe.
Could he have done a better job on the play? Probably. But I didn’t think this was that big of a deal at the time, and I still don’t now. In the Cubs recent series against the Mets, David Wright made a key defense mistake. Maybe you can dig up some footage about that and write a clever blog post about him, too.
by princefieldersdiet on Jun 26, 2008 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions
My joy has been killed.
Will I ever know joy again?
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions
Only one way to find out...
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jun 26, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 26, 2008 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions
He's Aaallliiiivvveeee!!!!
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jun 26, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions
To: digitalbenjamin
From: santoswoodenlegs
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 26, 2008 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions
Thank You
I would like to donate this $ to the “Rich Hill Mental Fund”.
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jun 26, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions
Notes from the guy who can't use reply:
Ramirez is definitely looking like a prototypical #3 hitter this year, with Lee showing the liabilities found in a #4. I would say switch them to try to kickstart Lee or at least better utilize him, unless you’re afraid of messing up Ramirez somehow.
Lee can hit, but just not in the clutch. He’s been that way for most of his career. I don’t need to read the stats, because in the REALLY big spots I always see him struggle. Not all the Risp or close&late chances are game-changing. Maybe they can get psychotropic meds to squelch the fear factor.
"I don't need to read the stats"
Last time I said a variation of this to some friends of mine, I was thoroughly embarassed and humiliated. Unlike that big hunk of fat on top of yours and mines necks, stats do not lie.
However, as Len said last night
stats don’t give the full story—there’s also field conditions and other elements in play that stats in their hard cold factness can’t convey. In full context a win is more than a win and a loss more than a loss. We need both stats and context. It’s not zero sum.
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
John Perotto reports teams think the Cubs might be cheating at home
Over at Baseball Prospectus, Perotto writes (behind the subscriber wall),
NL Rumors and Rumblings: There is growing sentiment among baseball people that the Cubs might be relaying the catcher’s signs from the hand-operated scoreboard at Wrigley Field to the hitters. The Cubs are averaging 6.5 runs a game at home and 4.4 on the road. … The Cubs are hoping that outfielder Eric Patterson’s recent hot streak might make him more attractive in the trade market.
As for the first item – that’s a disappointing rumor. I hope the Cubs tear into the Sox at home and all through their next road trip putting an end to these rumors.
As for the second item – do the Cubs reall think there are other player evaluators out there besides Lou Piniella who have the genuis and talent to judge a player’s future on a 3 game hot streak?
This was hashed over
in yesterdays Pre-Game Thread, IIRC. (The first bit about stealing signs.) There were debates about ethics and Steve Stone’s character, and a bitter Sox fan showed up. But no one got too worked up about it.
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
Yeah...if your signs are being stolen...you're doing something wrong
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I know Fontenot...
looks old enough to have just started playing baseball but he does he have to act like it, too. He had me wondering how many times a player, by the time he’s reached the Major Leagues, has been instructed to pick up the base coach when approaching third. And how many times he’s seen the three batters ahead of him take a walk and then swing at the first pitch to him.
"This field, this game...it reminds us of all that once was good, and it could be again." ~ Terence Mann
that really was terrible
i mean come on man, there are two outs, the ball was hit up the middle, how do you not score?
The Aramis BB/K Watch: 41 BB to 51 K's. One walk to ten k's lately, though he's heating up so I'll take it!
Quade
Was not a happy man. Lil’ Mikey got an earful.
by Tangled Up In Blue on Jun 26, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions
But he looks GREAT on a T-Shirt...
I’d like to see a few of these around Wrigley.
Help me Obi-ONEDEC. You're our only hope.
I'd buy one.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions
too cool
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 26, 2008 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions
Awsome!!
I want one too!
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 26, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions
Stuff
I’m really busy at work again so I haven’t had much chance to read all posts. Few quicks thoughts. Jim Edmonds, he still sort of bothers me but man he looks like the Edmonds we grew to hate with the Cards. I always gave him kudos on his swing because it is pretty, he is so good at hitting the ball where it is pitched.
In the middle of Marmol’s apperence there was 1 pitch where he got the call and it almost transformed him back into the confident, borderline cocky pitcher that is tough to hit.
Lastly, when Wood throws like he did last night it is unfair to ask anyone to have a good AB against him, that was unhittable as I’ve seen him in a long time.
Lets do it Cubbies
Good point about Marmol.
I remember thinking the same thing last night: It seemed like, immediately after he struck out Huff, something about Carlos changed. Something just seemed to “click on.” I can’t even put into words why or how I felt this way—there was just something about Carlos’ demeanor and body language that made me almost positive that he was going to strike out Hernandez, too. And sure enough he did. The final five outs of last night’s game were another season highlight in my book.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Agreed. Seeing him go off the field in his last bad outing
was awful. He didn’t have that “I AM better than you” look. He reacquired it last night…..
by crazymountain on Jun 26, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Just chillin' like my man Bob Dylan.
Just chillin’ like my man Bob Dylan. I’m here to keep in touch with friends and exchange thoughts/ideas/whatever with whoever cares to strike up a conversation.
by princefieldersdiet on Jun 26, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions
flagged.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions
troll = MDBNIU maybe? or whatever the acronym is
I'm a good speller, but my typing creates a SERIOUS vacuum. (especially while I'm at work sticking it to the man)
good observation
I saw the same thing… that moment when his mojo got back to work. It brought a big smile to my face.
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
Can you imagine the talk in the O's club house....
...after the game last night about facing Wood? Guys were probably counting their blessings that they were in the AL.
I'm a good speller, but my typing creates a SERIOUS vacuum. (especially while I'm at work sticking it to the man)
Lineup per ESPN
LF EPat
SS ZeRiot
1B DP Lee (twss?)
3B Rami
CF Jedmonds
C Jovani
RF DErrickROSeA
2B FonteYup
P Marquis
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
Punny.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jun 26, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions
gulp
a day without Dome is a day without… um… well, hopefully we’ll be ok.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions
Actually, I hope Dome takes the time off to watch some tape and get his patience back. He’s been taking a lot more unnecessary swings lately.
by SplintChesthair on Jun 26, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions
Why Fontenot?
While I don’t want Murton anywhere near the field, wouldn’t he be a better option with Patterson at second, or Cedeno at second. Fontenot is starting to play on borrowed time here in the major leagues.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
Apparently, Fonty has pictures of Ron Santo, too...
...because he was expressing some serious Fontenot love in the radio broadcast last night.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
till Fonty
didn’t go home on that one hit. Then he ripped ‘im.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 26, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions
It's the lefty thing..
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 26, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Did someone say?
I haz blurg: hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on Jun 26, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions
LOL
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 26, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions
longest sentence ever on bcb.... anyone else lose track or feel winded after reading? haha!
And, Kosuke Fukudome, who was in the original starting lineup (last night, former Vine Line editor Jim McArdle, who’s working on a book for this season, came to sit with us and had the early lineup on his scorecard—I copied it, but it changed by the time it was announced; also had to switch Baltimore’s starter when the original starter from the preview, Brian Burres, was switched out for Matt Albers, who didn’t make it past the fifth Cub hitter before he was lifted with shoulder trouble), had to be scratched with tightness in his left calf.
I love Jim Edmonds
and when you hit your knees tonight, ask God to love him, too.
by SplintChesthair on Jun 26, 2008 11:47 AM CDT reply actions
Why don't you believe it?
If you had done the tiniest bit of research, you’d know that Bonds has extensive work with charities throughout his career, so donating his salary for tickets for children really is believable.
Bonds for the minimum would be a great move. Kudos to the team that has the brass ones to do it.
The man is a total cancer in terms of attitude
Our team gets along pretty well right now and plays hard every day. That dude is a pouty, whiny, prima donna who I want to keep as far away from Wrigley as possible.
These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"
Funny...
that’s what I thought about Jim Edmonds.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 26, 2008 6:07 PM CDT up reply actions
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