Review: MLB Network Hot Stove
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 8:34 AM CST
in Other Reviews
321 comments
I finally had a chance to sit down last night and watch the MLB Network's "Hot Stove" show, a one-hour nightly program that will serve as sort of a practice run for the network's full-evening programming during the season which will run highlights and cut-ins of all the games going on each day.
I was pleasantly surprised by how good it looked, less than a week after its debut. Hosted by Victor Rojas, former Texas Rangers broadcaster and son of ex-player and Cub coach Cookie Rojas, who is amiable, well-spoken and keeps the show moving, it examines the top stories of the day (yesterday's was the press conference introducing Mark Teixeira to the NYC media) and also has various features. Yesterday, they had each of their ex-player analysts (Harold Reynolds, Al Leiter and Joe Magrane) play the role of the GM of a downtrodden team (Reds, Padres and Pirates) and choose ONE pitcher they would sign as a free agent.
Reynolds, the longtime ESPN veteran, is very comfortable on the air and made good use of the huge studio, which also serves as a backdrop that the ex-players can use to demonstrate various plays. I assume they'll do quite a bit of this during the season. Leiter, who has worked for both Fox and the YES Network doing color commentary, and Magrane, a longtime color commentator on Tampa Bay games, are both well-spoken. MLB has chosen well in getting men who both played the game and who know how to talk about it in an articulate fashion.
I also liked Tom Verducci's contributions as the non-player analyst. He's got useful opinions without being smarmy as ESPN's Tim Kurkjian is or know-it-all like Buster Olney.
MLB has also hired two female reporter/anchors, Hazel Mae (from NESN) and Trenni Kusneirek, a Milwaukee native who worked for FSN Wisconsin on Brewers games last year. Kusneirek's very good -- she's a former TV sports anchor from both Milwaukee and Pittsburgh and knows the game. Hazel Mae... well, let's just say she's nice as eye candy. She did two taped interviews, one with Teixeira, one with Yankees manager Joe Girardi. The questions seemed pretty ordinary and she seemed somewhat uncomfortable.
Those interviews were among the couple of quibbles I had with the production, less from a baseball standpoint than from a TV production standpoint -- this is my TV directing background speaking now. In the interviews, both Hazel Mae and the interviewee were holding microphones; that not only looked odd, but must have been strange for the person being interviewed.
Also, the network needs to ditch the fake crowd noise and fake ball-hitting-bat sound effect during highlight video. They were distracting and made it difficult to hear the voiceover narration. And, some of the shots of Rojas squeezed him onto a small sliver of the right-hand side of the screen, dwarfed by a plasma screen with a mostly meaningless graphic in it. In general, though, the graphic style is good -- readable without being overbearing, and their "crawl" is occasionally used as a "flip", where you see one story at a time, which is much more readable than a continuous crawl.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by how good the show looked, and I'm sure they are tweaking it as they go, considering they still have about seven weeks before the first spring training games. The network also has some other off-season programming that looks interesting, including detailed looks at various seasons in baseball history, "Baseball's 9", which is a look at the "Top 9" in different categories, and other baseball history, including running all of Ken Burns' "Baseball", and some old World Series films. Last night, they ran the 1946 World Series -- fascinating to see the way those were filmed, using extreme closeups of players obviously shot before the game, intercut with game action, to make it look semi-live; remember, in those pre-TV days, this was the only way anyone who wasn't at the game got to see any baseball action.
That's something that from a 2009 perspective, where if we pay for it we can watch almost every game we want to (and maybe the MLB Network will eventually allow everyone to do so regardless of location), and see highlights and keep up with scores nearly instantaneously. I give the MLB Network high grades so far, and if they keep up the good work, there should be no need to watch "Baseball Tonight" any more -- since ESPN often pre-empts it for other sports, and the MLB Network will be constantly updating scores and highlights for six or seven hours every night.
Good work, MLB. Didn't think you had it in you.
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Al I could not agree
more about what a good MLB has done with this programming. I also am very impressed with Victor Rojas in the job he has done so far. I am looking forward to seeing waht type of role Dan Plesac is going to play on the Hot Stove!
by cubdreamer on Jan 7, 2009 8:45 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Another MU Grad
Trenni is a Marquette grad along with Len Kasper. Guess I majored in the wrong thing there.
by MerigoldBowling on Jan 7, 2009 8:58 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
my brother
is an MU grad. Go WADE!
-clarknaddison
by clarknaddison on Jan 7, 2009 11:42 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Dish Network User
I have not yet had the pleasure of watching this channel but I have contacted Dish about this and hope it will be added to my lineup soon.
Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue
by tony412 on Jan 7, 2009 8:59 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I'm thinking
of going to Direct TV, I emailed dish and they sounded like it would not be added anytime soon. FWIW.
by StevenABQ on Jan 7, 2009 11:55 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Similar thing happened
when the NFL and NBA networks went online and they put those on relatively soon. It’s a competetive market so I’m pretty sure they will add them eventually, just hoping it’s before spring training to help me thru the cold boring winter.
Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue
by tony412 on Jan 7, 2009 2:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Cookie Rojas
There is a name that brings back memories and makes me feel old. I would love to see Verducci on air as he is
probably the writer closest to Maddux.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 7, 2009 9:01 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I'm surprised as well
Al as you might recall I was trashing the talents of some of the people who work for MLB Network…maybe unprofessional on my end but it was a true honest opinion.
They seem to have their act together. However, the true test will be either Spring training or the first day of the season when their crew works in crunch time getting clips together from all the games.
by ak123 on Jan 7, 2009 9:07 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Sounds like the need to start obeying the rule of thirds, Al...
ZING.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 9:13 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
GOOD SHOW....
So far was very impressed . Harold Reynolds has always been objective . We will have to see what the rest of the year brings . Gotta say I did get very tired of watching the Dodgers-Yankee series night after night …..
by cubs north on Jan 7, 2009 9:24 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I miss Harold Reynolds
He was the best part of BBTN.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 9:42 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I agree
it really went downhill, IMO, after he left
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Jan 7, 2009 12:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hugs
Maybe Harold could give you a hug.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 12:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If Gwood started working for him...
and was a woman, I’m sure he would. :)
I kid, I kid.
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jan 7, 2009 12:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Was thinking the same thing
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Jan 7, 2009 12:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
why
If you don’t care for a woman’s reporting skills then giving reasons why is great but it seems rather demeaning to refer to Hazel Mae as “eye candy.” I’m sure she has had to work very hard to get where she is and her appearance has helped her but that kind of language seems really insulting.
It also seems strange when a person of color is referred to as “well spoken.” Is it a surprise that Victor Rojas or Harold Reynolds are “well spoken?” If it is surprising please let us know why. As broadcasters we expect them to be “well spoken” so it’s only necessary to mention if they aren’t. I don’t mean to be overly sensitive but it seems really offensive to me when women and minorities are singled out like this. Yeah, I know Joe Magrane was thrown in there too but I suppose people figure ex-jocks shouldn’t be able to put a sentence together either. I’m rather disappointed in this type of “analysis.”
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:02 AM CST reply actions 1 recs
I thought it was a good review
and a worthy analysis. I didn’t have a problem with it.
I think the reporters and analysts require more of a close-up review for MLB Network than others because it is trying to pull us away from MLB.com, ESPN Networks, or the other traditional formats we have received our baseball knowledge from for the last few decades. If they appear to be under a microscope, I’d say hell yes they are, I want to know if the reporters are eye candy, well-spoken, or if I should stick to BBTN or ESPN.com.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 10:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
not against a review
I am not against a fair review of content. But to call women, eye candy and men of color well-spoken, seems tired, worn out, and stereotypical.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
and your politically-correct-nonsensical outrage is stupid and annoying...
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 10:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Outrage?
I’m not outraged and I didn’t resort to name calling.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
She posted pictures of Obama photoshopped into a clown. Tune in some Limbaugh and you will hear exactly the same stuff. Ironically, its politically correct.
by ol Pete on Jan 7, 2009 12:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hazel Mae knows baseball
Whether or not she is attractive, i.e. “eye candy,” is another topic. She is coming from NESN where boosterism for the Red Sox isn’t discouraged. She was interviewing one of the world’s biggest dorks, Mark Texeira, and had to navigate politically correct waters. There are plenty of real issues, but given MLB and the introduction of the network so far, I doubt she could have asked about him negotiating with other teams, including the Red Sox after he had decided to join the Yankees. She wasn’t going to ask about Bloomberg trading favors with the Yankees to arrange a luxury box that he controls or whether the “winning” was diminished by a near quarter billion dollar payroll.
by ol Pete on Jan 7, 2009 12:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe I'll see more of her baseball knowledge later.
It wasn’t in evidence last night.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 1:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I would disagree
watching Hazel on NESN, one of the knocks against her was that she didn’t ‘know’ baseball – at least not enough for a baseball-saturated market like Boston.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 2:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And for the record, broadcasters do not have to be well-spoken.
Not at all. See: Entire Cincinnati Reds broadcast team; Santo (I love listening to Ron, but he’s not your prototypical radio guy), and my personal favorite, Joe Morgan. No, you do not have to be well-spoken to be on TV or radio. Not in the sports world.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 10:22 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
also agree w/ dan
Al’s pretty cognizant of people’s sensitivities on this website- i can’t complain w/ his review either. The “well-spoken” remark is important in the case of athletes who are hired to give analysis on TV- I much rather listen to someone who can articulate his/her viewpoint based on their experiences from having played the game. Anyone who’s listened to Orestes Destrade on BBTN knows what I’m talking about- when MLB or ESPN hires former athletes to be analysts on TV, they damn well should have some personality so as to make my experience watching them better. Color of skin is completely irrelevant here- John Kruk is not “well-spoken” in my opinion either.
by cubfan1982 on Jan 7, 2009 10:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I would agree
that John Kruk is not well-spoken, but he is a lot of fun to listen to sometimes for that very reason.
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Jan 7, 2009 12:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
pfffft....
You’re a total wiener…sorry, but I didn’t read it that way, and I’m sure Al didn’t write it that way. Why do people force themselves to be offended by things? Seriously…I’m an ex-jock and didn’t take it to be offensive. I’m not a bigot either, so the “well spoken” comments didn’t even cross my mind as being racially motivated considering he also said the same thing about Leiter and Magrane. It was nothing more than a compliment. Some people, black, white, asian, whatever, don’t speak well or articulate their points. He thinks they do, simple as that. Seems like you’re really reaching here and forcing yourself to be offended by those statements. The “eye candy” thing was the only thing you can maybe claim to be offended by, but hey, believe it or not, he’s probably right and the world does work that way…if you don’t believe it, you’re naive.
by Lows05 on Jan 7, 2009 10:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
So if I say ESPN’s BBTN Eric Young isn’t “well-spoken” – because he isn’t – does that make me racist or something?
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 10:26 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
thesaurus
How about inarticulate? “well-spoken” has a lot of negative stereotypical connotations.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:29 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Somehow...........
…………I don’t see you accepting “inarticulate” either.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 10:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
what you see
Well, I just used it. I chose to use inarticulate instead of repeatedly calling people “well-spoken.”
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:40 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Now this is a well-spoken comment.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 10:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Chris Rock
Chris Rock addressed white people calling Colin Powell well-spoken. “He’s so well spoken. He speaks so well. ‘Speaks so well’ is not a compliment. ‘Speaks so well,’ is something you say about retarded people who can talk!” I guess I’m not the only one that thinks calling people of color well spoken is a tired and worn out cliche.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:31 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't believe you are still allowed to use the word retarded.
just sayin.
by N Oakley on Jan 7, 2009 11:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
After my successful..........
……….lobotomy, I wrote a letter to Rock to tell him about the insensitivity of his remarks.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 12:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
waiting
If you notice the quotation marks it was Rock that said that.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 12:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The quotation marks
make your comment well-spoken.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Or at least..........
……….well-punctuated.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 12:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
so if inarticulate is acceptable, does that mean that using articulate is also okay?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 7, 2009 10:53 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
articulate
Articulate wasn’t used though was it? Nope, an old tired out stereotypical cliche was used.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I understand that. I'm just trying to see if you agree that articulate is a better option.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 7, 2009 11:00 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Serious?
If you are in fact serious, it is obviously a preferable choice. Calling someone articulate doesn’t have the same connotations as calling a person of color “well-spoken.” Wouldn’t you agree?
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, I'm serious and yes, I would agree.
Unfortunately trying to get people to agree on issues like this is tremendously difficult because the real issue here, or at least it should be, is intent.
To prove my point, scroll down a bit and you’ll see a little “gotcha” I’ve posted in response to your Biden comment.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 7, 2009 11:09 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
intent
Does intent matter if there is willful disregard for the feelings of others? It may not be one’s intent to degrade and stereotype to call men of color, “well-spoken,” or women “eye candy,” but it is offensive and demeaning.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:13 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think this is a good reminder that words are important.
Also, words mean different things to different people. I think it’s interesting to read reactions from different people when we all read the same words but they meant different things, depending on the perspective of the reader.
What I take from this is that it’s important to choose our words carefully. Particularly, since we’re only reading words, there’s no body language or voice involved to give us keys to the meaning of words.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 7, 2009 11:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I take issue with the notion....
that all language is relative to the person hearing it/using it. It’s a carry-over from the dismal era of Deconstructivism that came about in the 60s.
And it’s a bunch of crap. That someone decides that a given word is offensive doesn’t mean that I’m required to act as if they’re justified in doing so.
In the end, words have denotative and connotative meaning. Some people seem to forget the former. Yet its the former that provides context to the latter.
If you remove that, you end up with the absurdity of today where words rotate in an out of “acceptibility” as people arbitrarily decide what is and isn’t proper speech. It makes us all a bunch of clowns.
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jan 7, 2009 3:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This is so true...on the outside I'm a happy clown...
but I’m really a sad clown on the inside.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 3:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm picturing...
the clown from Billy Madison.
Good news kids! Luckily he wasn’t dead; he just had severe internal bleeding!.
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jan 7, 2009 4:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Amen...
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 3:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
A proper word?
I’m not saying that any specific word used here was improper. I’m saying it’s a stereotypical cliche to call men of color “well-spoken.” Why are we so surprised that these men are “well-spoken,” how is that note worthy? Is it wrong to question ignorance? Let me know if a broadcaster is inarticulate, otherwise why mention it? It’s also not unremarkable to note that in our language minorities and women have been demeaned for hundreds of years so many find it acceptable and normal.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 6:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Where did Al feign surprise about their "well-spokenness"?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 6:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Further....
… I used that word to describe two white men. It’s surprising in a way, because they are former professional athletes, a group not always known for being able to put sentences together.
Accusations of racism are simply false.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 6:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Gotcha! Victor Rojas is CUBAN AL!!!!
WHY DO YOU HATE CUBAN PEOPLE AL…WHY?
YOU WERE EVEN AGAINST MARK CUBAN BUYING THE TEAM!
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 6:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm.
Cuban is Jewish. I must hate Jews, too.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 6:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That depends...
would you say Mark Cuban is…well-spoken? Articulate? Clean?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 6:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Would you say those things about me?
Then you probably hate Cubans and Jews, too.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 7:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Everybody hates Jews Al....
Jews and Vegetarians.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 7:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
well, I would argue that "willful disregard for the feelings of others"...
…is very much part of intent and should definitely be taken into account.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 7, 2009 11:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
YES!
ATP, a sense of humor, let me show it to you. As a “person of color” myself (I’m Latino), I have no problem with calling things as I see them and was not in the least offended by Al’s comments. For instance, take Fernando Vina. Good personality? I suppose. Good speaker? Not so much. as I’ve yet to see him construct a complete sentence together since being on BBTN.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
by Jayo525 on Jan 7, 2009 10:32 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
sarcasm?
Al wasn’t using sarcasm when he called Rojas and Reynolds “well-spoken.” I never said people should be offended and if you aren’t great. My point is that it is in fact a very stereotypical token way to refer to an articulate person of color.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hmmmm
does that matter/ any of your business?
by SignedSealed&Delivered on Jan 7, 2009 11:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So I guess Al is racist
against white people since he used the same comment to describe Leiter and Migrane. I guess Al is an ALF and is racist against homosapiens.
I use well spoken any time I evaluate a person’s public speaking ability regardless of race.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 12:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
racist?
I certainly never called anyone racist. If you are writing a critique of someone’s abilities it might serve you well to steer clear of tired worn out cliches.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 12:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Can you point me to this
manual of approved adjectives to be used to desribe people? You injected race into this argument when you only choose to call out the black people being called well spoken and not the white folks.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 12:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
your interpretation
I took issue with calling men of color “well-spoken” and a female journalist, “eye-candy.” I never called anyone racist or sexist. I am bring up the fact that these terms are worn out, tired, cliches and it would be nice to see it stop. You don’t mind it, I do. If you read my initial comment I also mentioned that referring to ex-jocks and Magrane specifically as “well-spoken,” seems a little tired as well.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 1:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Your interpretation is incorrect.
I meant no racism nor sexism, and anyone who knows me would know I’m not like that.
Those were my impressions of the individuals involved. I do not judge by sex nor color of skin.
I trust this will end this part of the discussion.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 1:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Incorrect?
My interpretation is not incorrect as I never said there was any intent to be racist or sexist. I am saying the phrases used are tired, worn-out, stereotypical cliches. That is really without question. Why is it note worthy that a man of color or an ex-jock is articulate? Let us know if they aren’t, but why so surprised? It will be nice when such things are unremarkable and a woman’s appearance isn’t relative to her ability to do her job. Minorities and women have been demeaned through many common references in our language for generations and when people start to become aware of this and stop perpetuating it, it will be nice. I won’t bother to discuss this any further as those that disagree obviously won’t concede that it’s prejudicial language. No point in trying to convince others that their ignorance is not acceptable.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 6:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, leave us dumb bigots alone.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 6:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Your choice I guess
I choose to view words as words. It is the user of those words and how he uses them that makes somebody/something said racist not the words themselves.
By trying to tell us we can’t use words, you are being racist against the English Language.
Al was responsible in his use of these words and many others so your statements to HIS use of these so called questionable words are just plain ignorant.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 3:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Was about to post the same.
The point he was making was that an ability to play baseball doesn’t necessarily translate to an ability to talk professionally about baseball. This is in contrast to someone like, say, John Kruk.
And, no, I have nothing against people with one testicle.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
John Kruk
only has one testicle? Wow. How did I not hear that before?
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jan 7, 2009 3:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You can't hear testicles.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 3:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
haha.
Thank God for small miracles.
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jan 7, 2009 3:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Vina is..........
……….horrible on BBTN. How he and EY have managed to stay on the program is beyond my comprehension. They are clearly inarticulate.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 10:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Emmitt Smith.
Enough said.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
naive?
You are in fact naive if you think that calling people of color “well-spoken,” isn’t offensive. I believe Joe Biden took flack for saying that very kind of thing about Barack Obama. It is insensitive and I personally would never refer to someone in that manner.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
that’s ridiculous! you’re taking it out of context. It’s like when someone says something in a non perverse way, but people take it that way…maybe you’re the one thinking those thoughts, not us.
by Lows05 on Jan 7, 2009 10:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
is calling a white dude “well spoken” racist??? Or should we just assume he is because he’s white?! seriously…ridiculous.
by Lows05 on Jan 7, 2009 10:32 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
racist?
I never called anyone racist.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
not overtly....or in a very well-spoken way.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 10:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
nice
I see what you did there.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 10:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Here's Biden's quote
“I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy,” Biden said
Notice what word he used? And he still took a lot of flack.
No further questions at this time, your honor…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 7, 2009 11:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
clean?
The reason the comment was pointed out is because he said he was articulate and clean. Had he simply said articulate no eyebrows would have been raised.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So the term "clean" is also offensive.....
good to know…I’ll try and never refer to any minority as “clean” so as to not offend them.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:17 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It isn't any one word in that sentence, it is the whole sentence
If you delete clean, it’s still bad. If you delete articulate, it’s still bad.
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
by JohnM on Jan 7, 2009 11:17 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
now you're definitely being naive
yes, the use of “clean” caused a ruckus, but so did “articulate”. And either one by themselves would still have raised many an eyebrow.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 7, 2009 11:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And don't forget "first"....
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Could you maybe do us all a favor...
and post a list of the rest of the seemingly innocuous everyday terms that are racist, offensive, and bigoted? I don’t want to inadvertently use one of those in everyday conversation with the wrong person.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:14 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Unaware
If you are unaware then I certainly can’t help you.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:16 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Calling me "unaware" is mildly offensive...
you should really know better.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:18 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
choices
I felt unaware was a better than calling someone stupid like you did me.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:20 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You like to make up your own meanings of sentences don't you?
I didn’t call YOU stupid….try reading my comment again, and this time pay special attention to the subject and predicate.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:22 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
I’m not stupid just my opinions right?
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:24 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You did better that time...
but you still didn’t comprehend it. Try again…third time’s a charm.
HINT: the word “opinion” does not appear in my comment.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
opinion
I used opinion because there is no outrage on my behalf. You actually seem much more outraged with me than I am with the insensitive remarks that were made.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's true...I hate you...but that's only because I'm a mostly white person.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:43 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you're being deliberately thick here SWL
The “well-spoken” thing is very widely regarded to be a loaded term. The question it raises is why we bother to point it out regarding African American commentators and athletes, when we don’t for white commentators and athletes.
I don’t think this is a case of political correctness either, since this seems to be tripping whatever knee-jerk anti-PC defenses you have. This doesn’t get raised simply because people think you should use a different word to express the thought, i.e. Indian vs Native American. This questions why you’re even raising that thought at all, why anyone would think it’s noteworthy that a black athlete can form complete sentences.
by Wreckard on Jan 7, 2009 11:43 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Wait...we're talking about black people?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
dood.
cmon.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 11:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Drew...it's OK...I'm being "deliberately thick".
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
...
just let it go.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 11:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I was giving you the benefit of the doubt on that one
I guess I was off on that.
Maybe “shrill” would’ve been a less presumptuous way to put it.
by Wreckard on Jan 7, 2009 1:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I’d just say that it is a knee-jerk use of the term “politically correct” to attack, not actual political correctness.
by ol Pete on Jan 7, 2009 12:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
After trudging through this whole sub-thread...
…some of you really need hobbies.
Al works in broadcasting. He directs, he knows talent, and given that he’s at a network O&O in a Top 3 market, he’s had to work with all sorts to get there. I don’t doubt for one minute that he was referring to the ex-player factor rather than demeaning (by damning with faint praise) anyone for their ancestry.
Having not seen the show, I’m not in a position to speak to his “eye candy” comment.
That said, why is it that some people are so quick to presume bad intent? Is there no longer such a thing as an innocent comment? Let alone an innocent mistake?
Let those without sin…
by MN exile on Jan 7, 2009 11:26 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What is that supposed to mean buddy?
You really shouldn’t insult us all like that so covertly. And for the record…I am most certainly NOT a militant vegan Druid as you’ve so cleverly insinuated.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:30 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Calm down there, SWL
I’m pretty sure MN’s “Let those without sin…” comment was a clear and obvious invitation for Worf to join this thread… ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 7, 2009 11:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
shhhhh....
"Truth does not do as much good in the world as the semblance of truth does evil," - Duc de La Rochefoucauld, Maxims, 64.
by Emelie on Jan 7, 2009 9:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Thank you.
That’s exactly what I was doing.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 1:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So, if a station hires a female reporter...
and she looks nice but can’t improvise on the air, we can’t call her ‘eye candy?’ Even though she doesn’t seem to show the skills that her job would normally require?
And ‘well-spoken’ is now racist? What happens if I refer to a fellow white guy as well-spoken? Is that like calling him a distinguished cracker? (aaaaaaaaaand here come the PC Police…)
I’m so confoozed… I thought with Obama headed to the White House, all this was going to change… I’m gonna go listen to my blues records now…
Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.
by znohitter on Jan 7, 2009 11:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
really
How often do you hear male reporters referred to as “eye candy?” I suppose you would like people reviewing your wife (if you have one) at her job to call her eye candy?
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Quite often if
you hung out with some of the girls in here.
by sue369 on Jan 7, 2009 11:46 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
don't forget DLee tying his shoes!
"Truth does not do as much good in the world as the semblance of truth does evil," - Duc de La Rochefoucauld, Maxims, 64.
by Emelie on Jan 7, 2009 9:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I recall a certain male reporter whose real name escapes me at the moment
but he was often referred to as the “SCUD Stud” during coverage of the Gulf War.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 7, 2009 11:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Arthur something or other?
"Who's Bob Brenly? The guy that used to be the manager for Arizona?" ~ Alfonso Guilleard Soriano
by JohnM on Jan 7, 2009 11:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Arthur Kent
Didn’t last all that long afterward, did he?
And for that matter, Charles Jaco, who I remember as CD Jaco from WXRT back when I lived there, long, long ago – what ever happened to him?
by MN exile on Jan 7, 2009 1:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He works here in St Louis now.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I work in TV.
Some of the male reporters are exactly that, and I know there are women viewers who see them that way.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 1:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So you're saying you work for a TV station...
so this is all kinda funny to you?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 1:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you're our eye candy on BCB, Chad.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 1:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
and no…it’s not really me.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 1:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
aaaaaaaaahhhh!
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
TWSS
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 1:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What was this guy thinking??
It looks like he’s wearing jeans. Is this his senior picture or his wedding photo? I really like the magenta blinds in the background, and the fog emanating from his back area.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 1:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
you forgot the cumberbund
that really makes a nice accent with the jeans.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 2:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
is that a third nipple or a zit in the bermuda triangle of his chest?
"Truth does not do as much good in the world as the semblance of truth does evil," - Duc de La Rochefoucauld, Maxims, 64.
by Emelie on Jan 7, 2009 9:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Triple Nipple?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 8, 2009 12:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
HAHAHAHAHAHA!
If I had a wife, girlfriend, or even a close female friend who would talk to me on a regular basis, I would be flattered to hear her being referred to as ‘eye candy.’ But that’s beside the point.
If a person (male or female) is hired for a job because of how they look and not because of their ability to do the job, they are ‘eye candy.’ Period. If they know how to do their job, no one will call them ‘eye candy.’
Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.
by znohitter on Jan 7, 2009 9:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
grow up
quit trying to make everything a race issue.
-clarknaddison
by clarknaddison on Jan 7, 2009 11:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If you don't like
what is said here feel free to move on.
by sue369 on Jan 7, 2009 11:45 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
DING! DING! DING!
We have a winner in the response to this whiner.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 11:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yep
Get in lock step or leave?
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:48 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Is that some kind of white supremacist remark?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Felt like it to me.
I take umbrage to such comments.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 11:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"lock step" is a loaded term you know...
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
sure is
It sure is and that’s the message that is being sent by people like yourself and sue369. “Get in lock step or leave.” I suppose that can be your only response as thinking for yourself can be difficult and painful.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:54 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Funny how your comments objecting to Al's use of words is ok...
and my comments objecting to your objections aren’t. Sure wish it worked both ways.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
comments?
Your “comments” in regard to my opinions were actually name calling. You are welcome to disagree with me but I’ve yet to see you put together a logical refutation of repeatedly calling announcers of color “well spoken.”
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
namecalling...huh...
trying to find my “namecalling” comment….leeme see….nope, can’t find it.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Stupid?
I’m sorry I guess you don’t consider calling people’s opinions stupid as being “name calling.” I suppose you think that’s logical refutation. I’m still waiting for you to tell me how it’s not a stereotypical cliche to refer to men of color as well spoken.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 12:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Here is my stupid annoying opinion...which doesn't count for much...
Referring to “men of color” – (which I happen to believe is a worse term than “well-spoken”) – in any way is going to be seen as insensitive and racist by some. You can’t really use any adjectives at all….some people will always find an offensive slant in comments about any group of people (race/sex/etc.).
If Al had mentioned ethnicity somewhere in his review…then I could almost maybe see your point. He didn’t…so it’s almost comical to me that your holding up his “well-spoken” reference as a transgression. Al runs a very respectable site (in spite of me), and he goes out of his way to make this a place of civil discourse. He’s the last person you should be lecturing. Now me on the other hand….
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 12:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not lecturing anyone
I know Al comments on keeping the discourse civil which is why I pointed out my disappointment in his remarks. I never called him names nor did I call anyone that disagrees with me names. I have cited well known examples in which men of color were referred to as “well-spoken” and how this is in fact a stereotypical cliche. Now you can brush it off by saying, “some people will always find an offensive slant..” That is a great way to excuse inappropriate behavior. Maybe you could admit that many people do find it insensitive and it shouldn’t have been said. Why would we think that Reynolds or Rojas weren’t “well-spoken?” You also fail to address the fact that the female reporter was referred to as “eye-candy.” These remarks were 3 separate incidents within the same piece and I felt it was inappropriate.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 12:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
But he also commented that Magrane and Leiter were well-spoken
Should Al completely ignore the “men of color”.
As for the eye-candy comment, maybe not the best term but why do you think she is there on a show primarily directed to men? The truth hurts sometimes.
by rlpete on Jan 7, 2009 12:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
baseball?
Gee, I thought it was supposed to be a show about baseball. Since she has reported on baseball I would assume that’s why she was hired. But according to the review she is just “eye candy.”
As far as the Magrane and Leiter are concerned I stated previously that they were being complimented as being ex-jocks that can actually talk. That seems a little demeaning as well.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 12:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So...
how exactly would you rewrite Al’s review? I’d really like to see that…make a new fanpost…please.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 12:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Inarticulate..........
………will be used quite often.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 12:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Jesus.
What he simply implied was that her skills weren’t up to par with the rest of the team (including, mind you, another woman) and that he believes she was hired more for her looks than talent (not solely, but more). Shocking that they would try to reach a bigger audience with sex appeal innit?
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
She’s better than Leiter or Magrane. And if he believes she was hired for her looks more so than her knowledge, that’s at least debatable.
by ol Pete on Jan 7, 2009 1:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not gonna pretend
to know enough to debate this. I simply inferred Al’s article and defended to seemingly foreign concept that attractive women have an advantage in television roles.
I’m not at all saying that’s why she was hired, only that it happens.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 1:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And its highly debatable whether Leiter whimpering that Yankees sell out on the road or Magrane’s dopey comment that “a rising tide raises all boats” along with his managerial suggestion for the Reds that they trade away pitchers including Harang so they can hire FA pitchers including Randy Wolf is articulate.
by ol Pete on Jan 7, 2009 1:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The broad is there to look at...
get over it.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 12:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Mostly just...
a gut feeling I have.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 1:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
dood
that’s SO not your gut.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 1:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Okay...well than I object
to your user name.
TACO and Pie = Can be used as a disparaging remark about a woman’s anatomy
“Acapulca Taco” Pie = are you making fun of Felix Pie’s Latino Heritage
It is not the words that are spoken it who is speaking the words and how they are speaking them.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 12:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Acapulco Taco Pie
Take up your beef with Seattle Sutton.
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 1:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow...
You totally did not get the meaning of that post. I guess that tells me all that I need to know.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 2:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
this thread is becoming quite convoluted so I might have missed this, but...
I believe a few people here have commented that the phrase “men of color” borders on being inappropriate and demeaning, yet you continue to use it. The part I might have missed is where you explain/defend your use of that phrase?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jan 8, 2009 10:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey Acapulco Taco Pie...
you have a call on line 2. It’s congressman Bobby Rush. He was curious if you wanted him to pop in on the chat and make frivilous racial claims. Oh wait, you already did that. Nevermind.
Hello again, everybody. It's a bee-yooo-tiful day for baseball. --Harry Caray
by chi-townbleacherbum on Jan 7, 2009 5:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It smacks of..........
………..“goose step”, and I’m of German heritage.
Off to watch “Valkyrie” and feel better about myself after the heinous things said about me on this post.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 11:55 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And as we all know...
Geese have been considered second class citizens of the aviary world for far too long.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 11:57 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Don't goose..........
……….the Eye Candy!
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 11:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So...
If someone disagrees or wants to bring a topic to light they should just leave? Maybe if you don’t agree you could provide a thoughtful response as to why? Would you like to be called eye candy by someone reviewing your job performance?
by Acapulco Taco Pie on Jan 7, 2009 11:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Dude if someone
called me eye candy I’d kiss them.
by sue369 on Jan 7, 2009 11:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sue,
you’re eye candy.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 1:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
oooh, he's lookin' to lay a big one
RIGHT on ya kissah…
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 1:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I have a sudden desire to go to Toys R Us.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 1:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
THE GIRAFFE DEMANDS IT!
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 1:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It's a blog, dude.......
not a performance appraisal.
Get over it.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 11:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Please explain
what is wrong when Al also commented that Leiter and Magrane are well-spoken. Can he only comment on white guys and “men of color”?
by rlpete on Jan 7, 2009 12:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
it has been used to express
surprise that a black person could speak well. Not in this case, but historically.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 12:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I know but in this case
it was applied to all the commentators.
by rlpete on Jan 7, 2009 12:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I know.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 1:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The PC Law
is that you can only comment on people of your own race, creed, religion, orientation, etc.
So if I read any glasses jokes the gloves are coming off…
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ok foureyes....
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 12:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The better to see you with...
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Geez...
You apparently never watch Baseball tonight, nor announcers generally. “Well-spoken” is a much rarer quality in tv personalities than you seem to imply, and noting its existence has nothing to do with minorities or women.
John Kruk is a good example of a mainstream broadcaster who is not well-spoken. Same with Tim McCarver, and a host of other commentators (if you’ll excuse the pun). Particularly in sports reporting, there is a much lower correllation between eloquence and job-placement. A lot has to do with image, and the other major factor is name recognition.
In short, I would politely suggest that your high-horse is misplaced.
(And if I can get on my own high-horse on language: things don’t “seem” offensive. They either are offensive, or they aren’t. The concept of something “seeming offensive” is a weaseling way of saying that while you aren’t offended, someone else might be. To which the proper response would be: It’s not your place to decide if other people are offended.)
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jan 7, 2009 3:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I have Comcast in Arlington, VA - MLB Network is not carried
I couldn’t find the channel so I went to the MLB.com channel locator and typed in my zip code and nope – it’s not offered on Comcast in my area.
How is it that Comcast has a stake in the network, but they don’t even offer it in my area (not even on the sports package).
I hate Comcast, so I was thinking of switching to Verizon anyway – but they’re not even listed in my area as having it or not having it.
Ugh.
by Texas Wahoo on Jan 7, 2009 10:16 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Thumbs up from me so far
I’ll be interested to see how much better it gets once the season starts, I like all the on air personalities so far…..but why dont they just call it MLBTV, it rolls right off the tongue, I think thats the name of their online service though?
Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.
by bren on Jan 7, 2009 10:18 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Yup.
EM-EL-BEE-TEE-VEE
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 10:19 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If I have to see Victor Martinez
commercials all next summer, I’m not responsible for what I might do!
I sincerely hope they make some new commercials!
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 7, 2009 11:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I like the show, although
Leiter’s kinda weird.
SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!
by CubFaninCA on Jan 7, 2009 10:24 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
As someone who's inherently weird
I find this comment offensive.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
by Jayo525 on Jan 7, 2009 10:37 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ken Burns, Baseball
I really liked that and am probably going to buy that DVD set also really enjoyed the old WS footage as well. I’m not so into them showing last year’s WS. Too recent and not that entertaining. I wouldn’t mind seeing some late 90’s Yankees or something like that. Hopefully they will do that soon.
by Lows05 on Jan 7, 2009 10:28 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
is this channel
freely available on cable systems? I must check my Uverse lineup…
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 10:38 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
It's not up yet on my UVerse lineup
I’ve called a couple times, but I have no idea when or if it’ll get added.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 10:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Check the complicated blackout rules for the MLB Network....
you may be out of luck.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 10:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I hadn't seen those
have a link handy? I hadn’t heard about any potential blackout problems, but that would be bad news.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 11:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
AT&T has not signed a contract with MLB
Most cable systems were locked in for MLB Network about two years ago when the Extra Innings package was renegotiated. UVerse didn’t exist at the time, so they are a bit behind. Since Verizon FiOS was able to negotiate a deal for MLB Network and Extra Innings 2-3 weeks ago, AT&T should have an opportunity to do the same. We’ll just have to see.
by Qixotl on Jan 7, 2009 11:32 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's what I was thinking
I figure AT&T will get on board soon enough. They are pretty responsive – I’ve been impressed with them so far – so hopefully it’ll happen.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 11:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I hope so.
is it just another channel? That would rock…
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 11:51 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I would guess it would be on the 200 level and higher
That’s what Versus and CSN Chicago (at least in Indianapolis) are at for me.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 12:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, I got 200 level too. Here’s hoping…
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 12:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I would imagine it would show up there.
that seems to be where the rest of the sports-tier resides (unless you want all the FSNs).
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 12:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I also watched hot stove for the first time
And although I am very excited about the network, really questioned some of the moves that they were making. I don’t remember who it was but one of the commentators (Not Reynolds) was talking about he would trade Arroyo and Harrang to sign Randy Wolf and Garland. I understand that Harrang had a bad year but us that pay attention to baseball in the NL Central know that he is a powerhouse of a pitcher and probably the most underrated pitcher in all of baseball the last couple years. Why would you want to trade him to sign mediocrity like Wolf and Garland? I know its only one point, but it irked me.
by KButler on Jan 7, 2009 10:47 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
It's an opinion
The world is full of them, get used to it.
Since they have you thinking about the show, they did their job. Your promoting it unintentionally and that’s what they want!
I also agree, Harang is a beast. I wouldn’t mind him in cubbie blue.
I am sure this won’t be the last thing you disagree with. Don’t be so sensitive,
by MrShowtime on Jan 7, 2009 10:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I honestly don’t think its an opinion. Its just a guy forced to answer a question about a team he doesn’t know or care about and will be irrelevant for at least the near future. It was an astonishingly lame attempt. I doubt if you asked him today he could name 3 or 4 position players on the team.
by ol Pete on Jan 7, 2009 1:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
exactly my point
If it really is his opinion, its an astonishingly bad one. Obviously, that can be argued. But Harang was only the 9th pitcher since 1960 to lead the NL in wins and strikeouts. He also led the league in complete games that year with a 3.7 ERA. All of this on a TERRIBLE team. All other pitchers tlead the nl in strikeouts and wins won the cy young. Harang didn’t even receive a single vote, which is why this guy is talking about trading him so he can sign Garland.
I wouldn’t call what I said being sensitive. I was simply pointing out how ridiculous this comment was and how it makes me very skeptical of what this collection of former players actually knows about baseball players today. You don’t see someone saying that Zambrano should be traded so that we can sign Brandon Backe.
by KButler on Jan 7, 2009 1:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I just found out I got it.....
I am extremely happy :)
"I played with one of the best pitchers in history, Greg Maddux," Zambrano said"
by fischisgod on Jan 7, 2009 10:48 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Would rather have this than the stupid Big 10 network I get on basic cable
It looks like I might have to upgrade my digital package. I want them to show a ton of spring training games; perfect for overnight programming.
Old Style is the nectar of life.
by Mordecai on Jan 7, 2009 10:58 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
At least BTN battled Comcast
to get the channel on regular in lieu of the sports package.
by N Oakley on Jan 7, 2009 12:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks
to DirecTV for bringing this to me. Things are looking up here in the boonies. Now I have MLB, WGN, and CSN Chicago summer-ready. Plus yesterday I hooked up the required elements for Digital TV; instead of 3 fuzzy channels, now I have 13 crystal-clear ones (including Fox).
MLB is exciting and classy. The Ken Burns documentary is a must-see. Play ball!
by NWIowaCubFan on Jan 7, 2009 11:17 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I have DirecTV
and was wondering if you could tell me what channel it’s on?
by sue369 on Jan 7, 2009 11:44 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Mitch Williams
This past weekend, they threw Mitch Williams behind the Hot Stove desk and he really surprised me. He was much more articulate than I remember and had some decent insights. They appear to have him on the weekends for a reason (only been doing analysis work since 2007), but you can see that he has worked on his craft.
And after watching Hazel Mae on NESN in the past, I would say that she is very solid as a sports news anchor, but a bit too fluffy for my taste on actual interviews. I see her being a bit more in her element when games start and she can cover highlights and actual newscasts.
by Qixotl on Jan 7, 2009 11:24 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I would agree on Hazel
she never seemed to go in-depth on interviews, but if you’re a network looking for someone who can move a program along from clip to clip, she’s not bad.
I wonder how she’ll do in a live-action format though, since she always had the benefit of the Sox game being over when she was in studio for NESN.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 11:28 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Kusneirek
I would differ on Trenni Kusneirek’s performance as a baseball host in general. As a Wisconsin resident, I’ve seen her work numerous times on Brewer telecasts and find her to be quite boring actually. I don’t share Al’s opinion that she understands baseball but rather, find her to be pretty educated by local and national media on the current happenings in MLB. I would argue that her own knowledge of the game is mediocre.
As a studio host she is decent but nothing better than average. She doesn’t ask terribly detailed questions of the “color” analysts but rather asks or offers broad topic-specific comments and allows the others to further develop them. There are worse studio hosts than her but I wouldn’t put her at anything better than average. Just my two cents.
I do enjoy the program so far however. It has potential and Baseball Tonight finally has some decent competition judging from the early shows.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jan 7, 2009 11:30 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Eye Candy, Al ?
How about “totally hot” or “easy on the eyes” ? Those are somewhat complimentary terms. Eye candy is demeaning, as if she exists only for men to get their rocks off.
“I’ll miss DeRosa because he was such good eye candy” – bleah…
by coral on Jan 7, 2009 11:33 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
She is eye candy.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well I will miss DeRosa because he was Eye Candy
and could play up to 7 positions but damn he was one sexy looking guy.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 7, 2009 2:55 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm gonna miss his wife, oh and the fact he could hit the ball
in the playoffs.
by N Oakley on Jan 7, 2009 3:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Joey Gaithright is on XM 175 MLB Home Plate right now!
He’s being interviewed on XM’s Hot Stove.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jan 7, 2009 11:36 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
I was very surprised to see I got the station
seeing how Charter lists every other sports network (ESPNews, Classic, NHL TV, etc) on a second-tier package. I’m looking forward to having the channel once the season starts…if I don’t break down and get EI.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 11:52 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Charter had no choice
As part of the deal for carriage of the Extra Innings package about two years ago, all cable operators and DirecTV were required to add MLB Network to an expanded basic package. Charter almost missed out completely as they dilly-dallied as usual and took an extra month to get a deal signed. They lost out on a chance to be a part owner of the channel in the process because of that delay.
by Qixotl on Jan 7, 2009 11:58 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Did you write the Wikipedia article I read yesterday?
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 11:59 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
For all the ladies out there-
Marv Albert is some real eye candy.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Just don't let his teeth anywhere near you.
by N Oakley on Jan 7, 2009 12:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Kenny Albert is even better.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Between ape and man there was...
Kenny Albert.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He's dreamy.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Jillian Barberie is a respected weather-person for FOX. Not eye candy. A journalist.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:07 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Really?
Cos she can tell me the temperature for the Bears game?
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Look at that picture.
They obviously hired her for journalistic purposes only. And for the record, I don’t even think she can tell the temperature. She mostly giggles.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
But her giggles are very "well-spoken".
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 12:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I saw her giving some pointers............
………..at a Bears game. All the fans were watching intently.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Jan 7, 2009 12:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Easy, easy...
Almost as well-spoken as the giggles of Terry Bradshaw.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone notice that her "giggles" are bigger this year?
by N Oakley on Jan 7, 2009 2:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah. They're huge.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 3:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the offensive word there
is “FOX.”
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 12:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Do I need to get the soap?
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
just don't drop it.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 12:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not that there's anything wrong with that.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
With what? Gravity?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 12:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I truely love apples...
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 12:34 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
it ain't just a good idea...
it’s the LAW.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 1:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the thing I will be most looking forward
to is when they stop airing their promo commericials. I get what the channel is…you don’t have to tell me.
Other than that, it has been fine so far.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 12:20 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
that's probably
because they have time to fill.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 12:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
NFL Network
does the same thing.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 12:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Agree..but they just
seem so touchy feely and campy that it grates on my nerves. Sort of like nails on a chalkboard.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 12:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"Prime 9:
Guaranteed to start arguments, not settle them."
Yeah, I’ve heard that one enough already.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It beats seeing all the ads
on BTN for the “Illinois Football: The Journey.” Yes, tell me more about an underachieving 5-7 football team, please.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Jan 7, 2009 12:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Juice was not entirely loose this year.
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 12:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I never did understand
running promo commercials on the channel the commercials are promoting. It’s like being that guy that wears the t-shirt of the band he is going to see.
The person watching the commercial is already tuned into the channel.
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Jan 7, 2009 12:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
But a startup network is different.
They need to let every viewer, whether they’ve been watching for a few weeks or happened upon the channel two minutes ago, know what they’ve got to offer every night. It’s like getting kids to smoke: attack em early and you got em for life.
Agree with the concert shirt, though.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 12:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They had my attention early
since they are a baseball only network.
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Jan 7, 2009 12:54 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
it's to get the attention of someone channel flipping
or someone who is at a sports bar. After all, everyone thinks sports bars are all about ESPN…
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 1:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Criminy.
Is it really getting to the point where political correctness means you can’t analyze or review or comment on a performance without looking at each and every word you say?
Try this: Pat Hughes is well-spoken. Ron Santo isn’t. They’re both white maies. Did I just make a racist remark? No, I simply described one quality they both have, or don’t.
It’s that simple. To read anything else into what I wrote is just plain wrong.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 1:32 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Now you resort to namecalling?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 1:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Who did I call a name?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 7, 2009 1:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL...you'll have to read much further up in the tread to get that joke.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 1:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It was only
one person who had their undies in a knot. Don’t worry about him.
by sue369 on Jan 7, 2009 1:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So Al, are you saying only people without Type I diabetes and the associated health concerns are well-spoken?
Thank you, thank you. I will now step back into obscurity and patiently wait for baseball to start so we can talk about the real important stuff.
Football and basketball are just things to do between baseball seasons.
by MetsSuck on Jan 7, 2009 2:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That Taco Guy
is obviously, and successfully trolling.
Do not feed trolls.
Nice review, Al, BTW. I just called my cable operator, (who was quite well spoken, I might add) and they were clueless, but would “pass it along”.
I’m not inclined to hold my breath on this one.
"I lof to hit de home ron!"
by Tekboy on Jan 7, 2009 1:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
It's winter.
Feeding the trolls passes the time.
Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.
by znohitter on Jan 7, 2009 9:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I can't wait....
until all your daughters grow up to be very attractive women and have to demean themselves in order to land the job of their dreams - all because they are considered “eye candy” instead of unqualified.
There is nothing wrong with commenting on the attractiveness of a women (or a man). But when the terms you use place them in a certain category — there are consequences.
by coral on Jan 7, 2009 2:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Not all Candy is sweet
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 2:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Plus your comments make no sense
if you comment on somebody’s attractiveness no matter what words you use, you are placing them in a category.
Again words are words…try not to cliff jump
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Jan 7, 2009 2:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I can't wait until all your daughters grow up too....
::rubs hands together and glances around::
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 2:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
got your overcoat ready?
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 7, 2009 3:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"Sitting on a park bench..."
Bleed Cubbie Blue: Like Drāno for your internet tubes.
by znohitter on Jan 7, 2009 9:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ummm.
A Mr. Hansen from NBC is at the door asking for you…
by N Oakley on Jan 7, 2009 3:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
NO BROWNIES?!?!?!?!
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 4:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, I'm just hear to talk, man.
I always carry condoms and wine coolers around.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 4:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Ohhhhh, just bein' STOOOPID I guess...
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jan 7, 2009 4:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"Take a seat."
“God, how does he do that?”
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 7, 2009 5:00 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Thank god I did a quick review of the previous comments...
…The eye candy topic has been covered adequately.
I had heard about 1/2 way through the 2008 season that MLB would have their own channel and I for one am super grateful. I think Al did a fine job pointing out the pros and very few (if any) cons of the show.
- I do hope they update their introductory music. It begins to wear on you quickly (perhaps I should stop watching so much of the show).
- The Ken Burns documentary by far is the most interesting thing on the show (not to mention one of the best stories ever told about baseball, history, …hell, anything. Incredible!)
- Joe Magrane is by far my favorite analyst. He and Reynolds work well off of each other. Mitch Williams brings a sound blue collar approach to the team.
- Entirely too much air time spent showing last years World Series. But I understand if they need a filler until they find more programming.
Overall a channel like this is long overdue. ESPN hardly gives baseball its due, even during the season. ESPN has turned into NFL central. Even though I no longer need their baseball tonight, I’m all for competition and having more than just one place to get news and information.
As long as MLBn doesn’t saturate its coverage with SOX / YANKS! I’ll be fine.
Oh, and if we’re talking about on-air eye candy, check out the dame (Rebecca) on Fox Business channel’s Happy Hour. Whew!
" Well isn't this place a geographical oddity? Two weeks from everywhere! "
by LOUtheMETandNATSfan on Jan 7, 2009 4:29 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
new MLB network
I watched the first couple shows when it debuted last Thursday evening and I really was impressed. I wasn’t sure I would be really interested if there wasn’t an actual game on at the time, but I ended up watching for a few hours, until I was too tired to stay up!
by Dsrjane on Jan 7, 2009 7:39 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Man!
I really hope dish network gets this channel. They’re the only one without it!
"Check the magic of a winning season and there are always reasons beyond the talent." Ned Colleti
by wrigleyrocker12 on Jan 7, 2009 7:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Don't hold your breath...
DishNetwork also refused to pay the “extortion fee” MLB asked for to carry Extra Ticket when MLB signed the exclusive contract with DirectTV and congress stepped in and suggested that they still make the package available to cable outlets….I don’t see Dish getting access to the MLB Network for awhile.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 7, 2009 7:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I've always been jealous
of the NFL network too.
"Check the magic of a winning season and there are always reasons beyond the talent." Ned Colleti
by wrigleyrocker12 on Jan 7, 2009 8:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Because ESPN
isn’t an NFL network already.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 8, 2009 12:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure
if this has been brought up, but there’s an NL Awards show coming on in a few minutes, which will look back at the 2008 award winners (including Geo and Lou).
by kanderber on Jan 7, 2009 7:58 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I nominate this post
as the “Most Hijacked Thread of 2009”
If this thread were a pie chart of posts related to MLB Network and posts related to ridiculousness of word choice, the latter would be Pac-Man.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 9:17 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Good sir
Can you elaborate?
" Well isn't this place a geographical oddity? Two weeks from everywhere! "
by LOUtheMETandNATSfan on Jan 7, 2009 9:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 8, 2009 9:12 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Aha!
Brilliant!
" Well isn't this place a geographical oddity? Two weeks from everywhere! "
by LOUtheMETandNATSfan on Jan 8, 2009 9:35 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Seeing how it's now lunchtime
I’m really craving me some dots…
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 8, 2009 12:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
but it was
an amusing hijack, dan
here’s hoping ‘amusing’ is OK
"Truth does not do as much good in the world as the semblance of truth does evil," - Duc de La Rochefoucauld, Maxims, 64.
by Emelie on Jan 7, 2009 9:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you're in the clear on that one...
…I hope.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jan 7, 2009 9:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Was it a well-spoken hijack?
Oops, I did it again.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 8, 2009 4:39 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Are you saying
Britney Spears ain’t well-spoken?
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 8, 2009 12:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No...
but she used to be eye-candy.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jan 8, 2009 12:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Used to?
I don’t see a whole lot wrong with her now.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 8, 2009 1:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
hmmm
perhaps you haven’t seen her exiting a vehicle sans drawers?
" Well isn't this place a geographical oddity? Two weeks from everywhere! "
by LOUtheMETandNATSfan on Jan 8, 2009 2:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Certainly wasn't my vehicle.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Jan 8, 2009 2:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL!
Hey…I had a picture here before (not THAT picture)…what happened?
" Well isn't this place a geographical oddity? Two weeks from everywhere! "
by LOUtheMETandNATSfan on Jan 8, 2009 4:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
what a babe
"Truth does not do as much good in the world as the semblance of truth does evil," - Duc de La Rochefoucauld, Maxims, 64.
by Emelie on Jan 9, 2009 9:16 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Anybody seen the promos on MLBN...
for how the live look-ins during the season will work? They say that they’re installing dedicated cameras in all the stadiums that they will go to, and have control over, during their regular evening show. Doesn’t MLB own, or at least have the rights to broadcast MLB games without the broadcast entity’s permission?… why not just show the broadcast when something interesting is occurring.
by MillsChC on Jan 7, 2009 11:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Yes, they do have the rights.
But I can see why they’d want to have editorial control over their own camera(s), rather than just take the home or visiting team’s broadcast.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 8, 2009 4:40 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Guy really got crucified for throwing out his criticism
I had no problem with Al’s comments, but I actually found it rather odd how hateful the reaction to the opposing poster was given BCB’s respectful nature. He was barely debated; only mocked about an issue some people do take seriously.
Oh well…I can be a sarcastic prig from time to time also.
Free Ronny Cedeno
by Kansas25 on Jan 8, 2009 1:22 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
You've hit upon something
The actual attitude, not just on SB Nation, but on almost all blogs, regardless of content are read with the initial attitude that the comment is being made in a facetious nature. It seems unless a person replying to an original post, prefaces his/her remark with: “I’m not being facetious / sarcastic” then the originator will take it as such.
This same problem can be seen in work emails. The moment a responder makes a remark that is not necessarily in the negative, but not necessarily positive, the originator is up in arms or thinks that the responder is being mean. Too much is perceived due to misunderstandings.
It’s hard to remove sarcastic tone from public discourse once it starts. Especially in the written electronic form.
" Well isn't this place a geographical oddity? Two weeks from everywhere! "
by LOUtheMETandNATSfan on Jan 8, 2009 8:56 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the thing is
Acapulco Taco Pie is RIGHT — in a GENERAL sense. Referring to an african american as “well spoken” HAS been used as a backhanded insult for decades.
In this particular context, he’s not right — Al’s not that guy. But it happens all the time, and all the complaining about Political Correctness is really inappropriate.
Oh, well.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Jan 8, 2009 9:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree...
The issue itself is important, but I don’t believe there were any racial undertones to Al’s post. I was just a little disappointed that he got attacked and constantly mocked for his stance. He wasn’t belligerent and did not call Al a racist by any means. Disagreeing with him and debating him is one thing, but I don’t understand why he became the point of comedic attack simply for his stance. As I said above, I can be overly sarcastic as well, but personally I’d stay away from this issue because it just might be something ATP has had personal experience with or takes very seriously.
Free Ronny Cedeno
by Kansas25 on Jan 8, 2009 3:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Just in case you thought all this was over.....
Hey Al,
Pulled this off the SI.com truth and rumors section. I know how much you love talking about this guy!
The Cubs finished off the Jason Marquis-for-Luis Vizcaino trade with the Colorado Rockies as expected Tuesday. But will it look more like a Marquis-for-Jake Peavy deal by the time they open spring training next month? Those close to GM Jim Hendry expect him to restart the Peavy talks with the San Diego Padres that broke down a month ago at the winter meetings. If Hendry can’t land Peavy, plenty of free-agent pitchers remain on the market, although Derek Lowe is pricing himself beyond reason. Productive innings-eaters such as Braden Looper and Tim Redding more likely would fit the Cubs’ needs.
by nmcubsfan on Jan 8, 2009 5:58 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
It's possible, I suppose...
…. that some of the pitchers the Cubs got in the DeRosa deal might be interesting to the Padres.
The “those close to Hendry” line probably comes from Wittenmyer’s article. I wouldn’t put more credence than that into it.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 8, 2009 1:07 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, I kinda like Kurkjian.
"I sail now?" - Bob Wiley
by OmahaCub on Jan 8, 2009 4:40 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
To each his own.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jan 8, 2009 4:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I hate to beat a dead horse.....
…. and all that, but if a long time ago the phrase “colored people” turned into a more acceptable “negro”, which became “black”, which begat “African American” which morphed into “people of color”, does that mean we’ve come back full circle to “colored people”?
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
by BeerCub on Jan 10, 2009 1:13 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
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