Cubs Convention Report: Day 2
by Al Yellon on Jan 16, 2010 6:00 PM CST
in News
355 comments
Finally got that shot of Ryan Dempster I'd been looking for. Demp is a class act and ready for a big season in 2010. I did a long-form interview with him which will be posted soon.
The biggest news from this year's Cubs Convention is... that there really is no huge, breaking news. With a near 24-hour news cycle covering every single development about our favorite team, with breathless tweets being dissected on this site and others day and night, there was almost nothing to be revealed this weekend that wasn't already known.
A few miscellaneous things learned on Saturday:
- Management is just about as tired of talking about Milton Bradley as we are. (Jim Hendry did acknowledge that the signing was a mistake and claims the Cubs can resurrect Carlos Silva's career, which remains to be seen.)
- The Cubs are still looking to add a bullpen arm and veteran bat and according to Jim Hendry, "expect to have two new faces" before spring training.
- The Ricketts family intends to be "hands-off" when it comes to baseball management and also want to stay out of the "media spotlight", but will be around in the grandstand and bleachers talking to fans about many things. They seemed genuinely concerned about upgrading Wrigley Field facilities to modern standards.
- The Cubs do want the 2014 All-Star Game; Crane Kenney said he's been lobbying for it for a couple of years. One of the obstacles is the NL/AL alternating schedule which would currently have the AL as host in 2014. (To which Kenney's response is, "How often does a ballpark celebrate its 100th birthday?")
- It was about 50-50 in a show of hands in the business meeting regarding who does and doesn't want a Jumbotron to show replays (Kenney said, "No Kiss-cams"). Personally, if a Jumbotron gives more information and potential revenue -- bring it on. They also said they're looking into the possibility of Wifi at Wrigley Field.
- Assistant GM Randy Bush, who played on two World Series winners with the Twins, was asked about team chemistry. He said it's "guys committed to going the extra step, unselfish players"; reminded everyone that during the season players often spend more time with each other than with their families and so it's important that they trust each other and form a "core group" to support each other.
- Jessica ("Doggie Stalker") badgered Lou enough about his use of Bobby Scales last September that he called her "sweetheart". Brought the house down. Lou's also against the DH in the NL and he appears to have lost quite a bit of weight -- looks great. (Never did manage to get Jessica together with Sam Fuld, though. That may have to wait for spring training.)
- In response to the question, "Will your eyes be on the bottom line?", Laura Ricketts said, "The bottom line is winning", to loud applause. The Ricketts repeated what they had said at their introductory press conference last October -- that any profits made would be reinvested in the team. There was a huge standing ovation for the four Ricketts siblings when they walked in.
- For those wondering about player payroll and other budgets, it appears that many of the 2010 budgets were set (not necessarily in stone) as part of the team sale. I would expect the first major player payroll changes to be seen in 2011.
- I asked Hendry what the team is doing about having a consistent organizational philosophy top to bottom. He claims that is already beginning with Tim Wilken and Oneri Fleita in charge. Personally, I'd like to see more done; perhaps we will.
- Asked why Jake Fox was traded, Hendry said he had several meetings with Fox late in the year, told him he was likely a better AL player and that he would try to find him a situation like that, which he did. This is why Hendry is well-respected among players, because when they don't quite fit with the Cubs, he tries to find them a spot where they can do better. He was also asked whether the Cubs would go after Orlando Hudson -- response: "You can't sign an expensive free agent at every position." He said he was pleased with the job Jeff Baker did after he was acquired.
- I asked Crane Kenney, after a question about a possible Cubs TV network was asked, about what the Cubs would do to try to help end TV blackouts (particularly for those of you in Iowa). He acknowledged the issue and said the Cubs would try to work toward that, with a longterm view (maybe 10 years out) to having a Cubs TV channel.
Now, follow me after the jump for some more information about what may be the most contentious issue discussed all weekend -- spring training.
The number of articles between Florida, Arizona and Chicago media the last few days -- though none had incorrect information -- had a lot to do with various posts here claiming that Florida was getting the bid; Arizona was getting the bid; or somewhere in between.
Here's what I know as of this evening: there is general agreement, between fans and management, that the Cubs need an upgraded spring training complex (one where players wouldn't have to travel half a mile down the road between the minor league fields and the major league fields, as is the case now). Kenney reminded everyone that the facilities in Arizona are now in use 11 months a year for things like extended spring training, the AZ rookie league and the AZ fall league. That's what they need and intend to keep. He specifically mentioned the Goodyear Ballpark, the new Reds and Indians facility, as the type of place they want (though I also know they have visited Camelback Ranch, new spring home of the Dodgers and White Sox, considered to be the new jewel of the Cactus League).
Both Kenney and the Ricketts family, when asked about the years in Mesa, said that the 57 years training in Arizona does mean something, and I do not believe that was mere lip service. They know how many Cubs fans live or winter in Arizona, and that includes people who work for the team now. They are well aware of what appears to be overwhelming fan sentiment at the convention (mirrored by the 68% who voted "Arizona" in the poll I posted in this December interview with Mesa Mayor Scott Smith) for remaining in Arizona.
What I believe is going to happen is that soon -- possibly as soon as next week, though it could be later (although not much later -- the Cubs must give notice by the start of this year's spring training if they intend to opt out of their current ST deal) -- the Cubs will announce that they are going to continue in Mesa. For their part, the city of Mesa has stated, earlier today via tweet from Mayor Smith, that they intend to do what it takes to keep the Cubs:
To remove ALL doubt: Mesa proposal to Cubs will build new stadium and training facilities that are best in all of baseball!
And that, really, is what it's all about. The two new complexes I mentioned above, plus other new Arizona ST ballparks like the one in Surprise and the one in Peoria, are shared by two teams. The Cubs are the engine that drives the Cactus League, and as such should have a similar complex all to themselves.
Based on that comment by Mayor Smith, they'll get it. In Mesa. To paraphrase something we say here often, GETITDONESCOTT!!!
Here are a couple of photos from Saturday's panel discussions (yeah, I know, they're a little dark. Flash didn't quite work as well as I had hoped.)
Sam Fuld, Justin Berg, Ryan Theriot, Micah Hoffpauir and Ryan Dempster speak to fans
Assistant GM Randy Bush, Lou Piniella, and Jim Hendry in this morning's session
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Well done Al
I was waiting for a day 2 update and you delivered. This spring training issue is taking on a life of it’s own. I for one would have a hard time going to Florida, I mean it’s unbelievable to think of going to Florida for a week and there are only 2 home games and spend the whole time in the car traveling 3+ hours to away games. I stay in Mesa and will take in every game this year, never traveling more than 40 minutes to a game. This is vacation too, I don’t want to spend it in a rental car! I sure hope you’re right, I really enjoy AZ and would hate not to be able to watch the Cubs.
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
+1
Its nice to hear and see what I am missing.
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
thanks Al and others who are posting pics and updates from the Convention
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
My pleasure.
Fun and informative, long days, but nice to think and talk baseball in the middle of winter, catch up with old friends, and start the countdown to spring training!
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Good stuff indeed
It does seem the convention getting more coverage this year from the Trib; maybe when they owned the team, saw it more as a PR function?
One thing very strange to consider is Cubs shook up the roster quite a bit after a 97-win, playoff year, and are doing so much less this year after a down year…think much of it is budget (and bad contract) related; surely they would move a Soriano or Fuku if they could.
I agree budget likely to move more in 2011 and esp. 2012 when Fuku and Bradley/Silva come off the books. But it will prob. stayin $150 M ballpark
Thanks for the update Al
Glad to hear that Lou is getting more fit in addition to Geo and Z. That was a good question about the blackouts. I guess it will get fixed when they don’t have enough revenue or someone wakes up and realized that they could raise more revenue than before if they give fans what they want.
Also
thanks for the tweets during the day. It’s almost as good as being there!
by LT on Jan 16, 2010 6:42 PM CST up reply actions
YW.
It’s hard to do that at times in the Hilton because cell service is spotty. Glad you liked the updates.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
First of all...
…props to Jessica. I joked about her and Lou getting into a “shouting match” and it sounds like she came pretty close. Although I’m not quite as anti-Piniella as she, I respect her for walking the walk.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 16, 2010 6:31 PM CST via mobile reply actions 8 recs
Al passed me in line after his question
and asked me what I planned to ask and I just said " what do you think ?". I should point out I do have a history of asking serious questions at these things but usually to Hendry or Frank Maloney ( head ticket guy). This year I also asked Kenney a question re Spring Training move including if the fact that his family lived in the area and that he had vacationed there for 30 years was in any way coloring his judgement . ( He said not but also repeated the mumbo jumbo about 17 of the last 20 WS winners training in FL and dodged the main part of the queston which was if the AZ & FL proposals were comprabable in financial and facilities termws why would the Cubs leave AZ).
I had a much friendlier ( and long) Q &A with Wilkins & Flieta regarding Maddux’s role and the pitch count issue in the minors. Tville may be concerned to hear that Maddux is interested in learning about scouting ( I think it is great) but of course they are thrilled to have him. They went into some detail on the pitch count issue in terms of concerns over injuries and having a lot of relievers being converted to starters and position players to pitchers so they are dealing with many guys who don’t have a long histoyr of throwing pitches. They also said the head trainer guy ( Riggins ?) is working with Dr. Andrews doing tests on a number of the players. Sounded like a very interesting program.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 17, 2010 3:31 PM CST up reply actions
Thanks for sharing
everything Jessica. Interestng stuff.
OK I don't know shit about basketball.
by SoulEater7 on Nov. 5, 2009 9:51 PM CST
On the farm
Anything else interesting to you about the ON THE FARM segment. Al doesnt seemed to like to talk about the minor leaguers much.
It's not that I don't "like" to...
… I didn’t attend that session. On this site I generally defer to others who know more about the Cubs farm system than I do.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Nice Post!!
Glad Theriot cut the hair off!
Hendry looks bad, real bad to me.
Soto looks excellent!
Man I’m ready for baseball!
I would sleep with Blou if it meant the Cubs would win a WS. by Doggie Stalker on Aug 22, 2009 4:11 PM EDT
He's been on a Dunkin and KFC bender lately.
He’s trying to bring them in as sponsors for the team, and also for his own personal reasons.
Yeah, I noticed that about JH too.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 16, 2010 10:39 PM CST up reply actions
Hendry has always kind of looked that way.
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
by Ryno Runner on Jan 17, 2010 12:36 AM CST up reply actions
Anything more...
…about Andre Dawson being said at Cubs Convention? Anything more about his number being retired? A special day to honor him? Or what hat he’ll wear?
No further info on the Dawson cap.
There was some discussion about possibly retiring #8, but no decisions have been made yet.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Did they mention anything...
…about having a special day to honor him? If so, I want to try to make that game.
by TheHawkRules on Jan 16, 2010 6:47 PM CST up reply actions
Nothing specific, but...
… I’ll bet there will be. Stay tuned.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I will. Thanks.
This means a lot to me. I appreciate it.
by TheHawkRules on Jan 16, 2010 7:01 PM CST up reply actions
Sutcliffe pointedly asked Hawk which cap it was going to be while the two sat on the dais for the 25th Retrospective session.
Hawk rolled his eyes a bit and said that the only reason he was asking the question was that Sut (and Hawk) already knew the answer. Body language said “Expos”. I’ll be stunned if it’s not, otherwise why not announce it as part of the CC love-in?
Now only 12,859 on the "Cubs Season Tickets Waiting List"...
Why not?
Because maybe the Hall hasn’t made its decision yet. Would be presumptuous of Andre to do it ahead of time.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Well, perhaps. But Hawk appeared to be miffed at Sut putting him on the spot like that.
And Hawk said to the crowd: “He’s only asking because he already knows the answer.” So it sure SOUNDED like the decision had been made and Hawk knew and had shared the info with Sut.
I could be wrong. It would be the first time, of course, but it’s possible. ;)
Now only 12,859 on the "Cubs Season Tickets Waiting List"...
Hawk ought to know better than to share a secret with Sut... ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
lol,
Hawk owned him one of two for offering some of his money in ’87 and for going after Eric Show later that year! lol
by TheHawkRules on Jan 17, 2010 8:50 PM CST up reply actions
Second of all...
…I’m a little bummed to hear that Ben Sheets is likely off the table. And I’m not sure spending money on another bullpen arm is really necessary with so many live arms in camp. But it’s good to hear a vet bench bat is forthcoming. Let’s hope it’s a good one.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 16, 2010 6:40 PM CST via mobile reply actions
Sheets is still scheduled to throw for several teams...
…. IIRC, on Tuesday. Maybe he’ll impress the Cubs enough to change their minds.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I don't see how Hendry...
…could pass on a pitcher of Sheet’s caliber if he’s throwing well (unless Sheets asks for a ridiculous amount of money). Of course, there are a lot of other teams in the mix.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 16, 2010 7:12 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
sheets feels an awful lot like pryor
to me…
There is no infinity button for failing in sports. At some point, things turn. They always do. - Bill Simmons
Eh...
not exactly Prior, but he could be risky. Incentives, incentives, incentives.
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
by Ryno Runner on Jan 17, 2010 12:37 AM CST up reply actions
To TWSS or not to TWSS, that is the question... ;-)
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
♫ We got Richard Pryor on the video... ♫
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 1:40 PM CST up reply actions
Well, the key difference is...
…the Cubs wouldn’t be depending on Sheets to be a top of the rotation starter. Ideally, they’d give Ben a one-year, incentive-laden deal and use him much like they used Harden. And it’s important to remember that Sheets has made 30+ starts four times in his career and already far exceeded Prior in innings pitched and number of games started.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 18, 2010 12:02 PM CST up reply actions
There's a limit to the number of dollars they have.
That may be the issue.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
where does it say Sheets is off the table
was Sheets mentioned during the Q and A?
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."
I think it was inferred based on Hendry saying only two more acquisitions
and then mentioning bullpen and 4th outfielder.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
missing all the time he has
Sheets could start in the bulpen
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
I agree
but IMHO that would be best for him, to get prepared to returrn to a rotation after all his injuries
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
As ballhawk mentions above...
…I was inferring that Sheets wasn’t likely on the table because of comments made at the Cubs Convention.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 18, 2010 12:04 PM CST up reply actions
crazy priced
he’s asking for crazy money, considering he did not pitch last year
I'm going to Randy Hundley's fantast camp 7 days
by VegasCubFan on Jan 17, 2010 12:12 AM CST up reply actions
Good work
This is one event I would love to attend. Lliving on the east coast kinds of nixes that idea.
Interesting to see who the Cubs add. I hope it is players of significance not players that we will scratch our head and get pissed off.
Everyone looks good, except Hendry. Goodness after his bout with bad health you would think he would take care of himself.
Sheets/Nady.
Thanks Al...
…appreciate the thorough reports from the convention, for all of us not able to be there. Nothing better than reading news on the Cubbies in the middle of January!
thanks for all the info.....
and its nice to see all the recent pics of our 2010 Cubs….cant wait for baseball season—78 days, (sigh)
"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."--Rogers Hornsby
I guess Lou loves me.
Let me call you sweetheart
Im in love with you
Let me hear you whisper that you love me too
Keep the lovelight glowing in your eyes so true
Let me call you sweetheart
Im in love with you
Let me call you sweetheart
Im in love with you
Let me hear you whisper that you love me too
Keep the lovelight glowing in your eyes so true
Let me call you sweetheart
Im in love with you
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 16, 2010 8:12 PM CST reply actions 3 recs
You best be careful!
Some of us around here may start calling you “sweetheart,” too! ;)
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 16, 2010 10:40 PM CST up reply actions
And there would be a new and improved version of
TW❤S
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
You may have to change your name to "Doggie Sweetheart"
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Your in the news, sweetheart.
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
by Ryno Runner on Jan 17, 2010 11:08 AM CST up reply actions
Bottom of the page on the link.
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
by Ryno Runner on Jan 17, 2010 11:09 AM CST up reply actions
Here's the quote
Piniella became irked with a woman who questioned him on his decision to play 32-year-old Bobby Scales(notes) over 24-year-old Tyler Colvin(notes).
"We didn’t bring Tyler up until September, sweetheart," Piniella said to a roar of laughs from the crowd.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
My question was why Hoff, Colvin, Fuld & Fox
Did not play instead of Scales IN SEPT. so Lou was totally wrong with that response. The question was specifically about why Scales a carreer minor league guy would play over kids that you needed to evqaluate and who needed more time in the MLB.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 17, 2010 2:00 PM CST up reply actions
The other obvious part of the question
was that the Cubs were out of the race in SEPT. which is why that part of the response was not to my question.
Got to run.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 17, 2010 2:02 PM CST up reply actions
I was gonna say...
…Lou’s response makes no sense whatsoever.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 18, 2010 12:06 PM CST up reply actions
Sweetheart Stalker?
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Was that the actual question?
I’ve never heard DS mention Colvin as the player she was irked that wasn’t playing…thought it was Jake Fox.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Jan 17, 2010 11:17 AM CST up reply actions
I don't recall it as being specifically about Colvin...
… but IIRC that was Lou’s exact response.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
If someone has a spare no-name-on-the-back Cubs jersey laying around somewhere...
…that they’re willing to donate to Doggie, I’ll dig deep into my unemployed pockets and sponsor the “H” letter so she can proudly wear her Sweetheart on her sleeve back.
That leaves S, W, E, E, T, E, A, R, T for the rest of you.
Oh, and whoever donates the jersey gets a BP ball from me.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
So will I
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
I'd like to buy a vowel. lol
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
by Ryno Runner on Jan 17, 2010 11:17 AM CST up reply actions
I have a (name redacted) jersey. I bought into his "I feel blessed" BS.
You can take a couple of letters from it. I ain’t using it. lol
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
by Ryno Runner on Jan 17, 2010 11:20 AM CST up reply actions
Well, that should take care of an E, the R and the A...
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I too have a Bradley that can be chopped up and used for spare parts, etc
letters, or for the jersey itself. Its the Alt Blue one
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
I've got a budy who's last name is Bradley.
He’s even a cubs fan. I’ve been trying to convince him to stock up in every size, shape and color. Maybe when he starts a family some day or something, the stench of the Bradley name will have worn off and he and his family will be set for life with “personalized” jerseys!
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Jan 17, 2010 11:26 AM CST up reply actions
He could have gotten a Bradley jersey at one vendor's spot
for 50 bucks
"You just don't know understand how frustrating this is"- Kevin Borseth
I'll buy
the S.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 11:46 AM CST up reply actions
I'll donate for a 'T'
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
I'll take the W.
Now, that depends on what kind of “W” you would like… ;)
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 1:42 PM CST up reply actions
Or this one.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 1:46 PM CST up reply actions
I hate that feature of photobucket.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 1:47 PM CST up reply actions
Or this "W"
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 1:52 PM CST up reply actions
I keep trying to find this.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 1:54 PM CST up reply actions
This is the other "W" you could get!
;)
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 1:55 PM CST up reply actions
just blame Bradley for it
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
If anyone has a larger version of that flag, I'd very much appreciate it.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 2:09 PM CST up reply actions
Testing ... FLY IT!!!!
Feel free to click that flag. If anyone has a larger version, please let me know by the time the regular season begins.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 2:11 PM CST up reply actions
And it's 1... 2... 3... 4... strikes yer out at the ol' photobucket game! ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
yep.
The flag I used last year didn’t work anymore.
This is the same flag you see right above, with the comment title “I keep trying to find this.”
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 2:37 PM CST up reply actions
well, I don't see any of them - just 4 inactive graphics
hence my 1 2 3 4 rendition
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Huh.
Does anyone else see inactive graphics or the flag?
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 3:36 PM CST up reply actions
Flags
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
Two inactive graphics, and then two flags?
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 3:41 PM CST up reply actions
i only see inactive
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Okay.
I’ll post the flags at photobucket that are wavy at the bottom of this thread.
Please tell me what you see.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 3:50 PM CST up reply actions
Go to the bottom of this thread, let me know which flag(s) you see.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:10 PM CST up reply actions
Same here.
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 18, 2010 12:07 PM CST up reply actions
Artist's conception
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
Nice!
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:56 PM CST up reply actions
Ha!
I was debating between 31 and 27 – never even thought of 41 :D
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
for $40, I got a DEROMANTIC #7 ---women's T-shirt :)
SWEETHEART #? could be customized on a T also.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."--Rogers Hornsby
by cooliogirl47 on Jan 17, 2010 8:30 PM CST up reply actions
I have always said I was one Jersey girl.
However since this would not technically be another player I could deal with it.
FYI Kasey always wears his Lou jersey when he knows I will be at the game since he sits two rowns in front of me.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 17, 2010 9:33 PM CST up reply actions
I like that idea
Central Texas seems perfect to me..
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Minute Maid Park in Houston?
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 3:36 PM CST up reply actions
Round Rock, TX sounds good to me
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Thanks Al for all
the great coverage. Between you and Sports Nite I’ve seen a lot of good stuff.
OK I don't know shit about basketball.
by SoulEater7 on Nov. 5, 2009 9:51 PM CST
Various convention notes
Ok besides asking Lou why he played Scales over Hoff, Fuld, Colvin & Fox in Sept., I hit a number of the Q& A sessions. I missed the one with the Ricketts since I was getting Andre to sign. Ballhawk, your birthday gift to me of an old BP homer ball is now autographed by the Hawk. It was a bit scuffed but not on the sweet spot. Lest you think Lou was the only person I was griling, I also asked Kenney about the Spring Training move and I may get quoted in the Naples paper. Oh Joy.
One thing that went totally down hill was the old "Not for Women Only " which had been a hoot with Markey and the other lady I forget grilling players on silly but funny personal stuff. Gary Meir was boring and most of the time was spent with audience questions. The players tried but it was not very good and people who go to the mike asking players for autographs should be ejected.
I very much enjoyed the kid’s preff conference. Those kids are great and they ask stuff no adult could get away with. The players seem to enjoy answering the questions ranging from what is their favorite video game to what exactly Lou says to them when he is mad.
Nice meeting a few of you tonight even if Al left before 5.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
Nice job Doggie!!!!!
You asked the question the beat reporters couldn’t handle asking.
So besides calling you sweatheart, did he answer the question?
Hey, thanks for tipping me off about that FanShot.
I just deleted my (entirely unnecessary) FanPost on the same subject.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 1:27 AM CST up reply actions
Yeah, what was his response?
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
by Ryno Runner on Jan 17, 2010 12:38 AM CST up reply actions
He responded that
It was important to finish 2nd and above .500 so he wanted to play what he considered his best line up. He claimed all those guys ( Colvin, Fuld, Hoff & Fox) got "plenty of playing time ( which they most certainly did not in SEPT.). Hendry chimed in that Colvin was never intended to play . Let’s just say I respectfully disagree because I still think you play “kids” when you are out of contention and Hoff and Fox in particular needed more ABs to be evaluated.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 17, 2010 8:30 AM CST up reply actions
it's the Elmer Fudd rendition of a press conference ;-)
you can’t get much by that #$%@ ballhawk -- LT
He gave you a total bullshit answer.
I have lost even more respect for him now. He messed up and there is Jh backing up the crap. I suppose he had to. Next years convention will have new people in that spot. Hopefully someone who can be straight when answering questions.
that's a completely
reasonable answer. Just because you don’t like it doesn’t make it BS.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 9:56 AM CST up reply actions
I'm gong to side with TJ
and call it B.S. Furthermore, I was sitting ten feet away from Lou when he said it, and he didn’t even seem to be buying the stuff he was slinging.
It was an incredibly short-sided move, as you could have at least used that time to bump up the value of Jake Fox, or see how likely the idea of Sam Fuld as a fourth outfielder might be. I applaud Jessica for calling Piniella out on this one.
By the way, I’ve got the complete session on audio.. I’ll see if I can extract the Jessica question in the next day or two, so that people can hear the hemming and hawing for themselves.
by Damen Jackson on Jan 17, 2010 10:03 AM CST up reply actions
didn't seem to buy it?
I don’t even know what that means. He’s not exactly an expressive guy in press conferences (except when he up and leaves).
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 10:29 AM CST up reply actions
What part of it are you having trouble with?...
when a direct question is put to you, and you hang wring, shake your head, rub your brow, and resort to saying things like “Listen sweetheart” in reply, you seem a bit less than forthright with your answers. Even more so when you’re a seasoned practitioner of media relations.
by Damen Jackson on Jan 17, 2010 10:46 AM CST up reply actions
Exactly
I think he hopes everybody in the audience is just like Drew. Swallowing up everything he says as wonderful.
LOL
BLou is that you?
I reject your reality and substitute my own.
by WayneCampbell08 on Jan 17, 2010 5:53 PM CST up reply actions
I think you are missing / ignoring drew's point.
Lou has NEVER been a guy who is going to give you any useful information in a press conference.
We’ve got an ongoing “LWDYWMTS” joke going here. Jessica and everybody else in the room knew how he was going to answer that question. His answer would have been the same with a softball question. Its how he communicates in these situations.
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Jan 17, 2010 10:57 AM CST up reply actions
Like an idiot. He gets paid good money. TRY to answer a question Lou.
I wish we got the Lou that used to manage the Reds. Not this weak version.
I don't know what LWDYWMTS is
but I think it’s Drew that’s missing the point. This was probably the most uncomfortable question of the weekend for Piniella, who handled it unusually poorly, even by his normal interview standards. He was so awkward and uncomfortable about it, that there was no room for suspension of disbelief, and made one wonder if he even believed it himself.
And on that, I’ll say no more on the topic.
by Damen Jackson on Jan 17, 2010 11:05 AM CST up reply actions
I don't have the image...
… but basically, we’ve been joking for a while here that Lou’s standard response has been something to the effect of “Look, what do you want me to say?” with a shrug of his shoulders. Expecting anything different at the cubs convention than we get post game all summer is silly.
Its how he deals with questions from people that he doesn’t care to answer, or has no answer for. Calling it a “complete BS answer” is pointless, as i’m sure he had no intention of answering that or any other question with anything other than total BS. Press conferences and Q&A’s aren’t his forte. It has nothing to do with his ability to manage the team on the field.
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Jan 17, 2010 11:13 AM CST up reply actions
granted
I wasn’t there. But Lou has never been voluble at a press conference, which this essentially was, except that the audience is full of a thousand Paul Sullivans, who can’t treat his subjects impartially.
But like I said, I wasn’t there.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 11:48 AM CST up reply actions
Actually, IIRC Fuld was hurt for part of the time in question.
Check his game logs.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Bobby Scales playing out of position gave us a better chance to win?
What is wrong with you. You lose more credibility everytime you post.
it doesn't matter what you or I think about the move
Lou was doing what he thought was right.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 10:29 AM CST up reply actions
Drew you are a complete Cub excuse maker
You agree with almost everything they do.
Guess what, we are going on 102 years without a WS victory. They have not earned our trust. So deal with it when people question them.
You remind me of Carrie Muskat. A total Cub Kool Aid drinker.
Chill out dude.
Three posts in a row criticizing somebody seems a bit over the top.
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Jan 17, 2010 10:23 AM CST up reply actions
Yes, exactly.
If you don’t like what you are reading, don’t read it.
No need to get nasty with a dude in three consecutive comments because you don’t like what he’s saying. 3 in 10 minutes? Jeeze.
He’s got his perspective, you’ve got yours. Tossing around terms like “Kool Aid drinker” and questioning people’s credibility brings nothing to the conversation, and smacks of another poster here who himself has a hard time engaging in real debate due to his pointless vitriol.
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Jan 17, 2010 10:55 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
He's came after me first again a few days ago.
I had been leaving him alone because its too easy and he can’t take it. He likes to pick fights and run away. But of course there you are coming to his rescue as always. Are you his big brother or something?
Yes, i'm his big brother.
And my dad can beat up your dad!
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Jan 17, 2010 11:16 AM CST up reply actions
LOL!
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
It's go time!
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 18, 2010 12:12 PM CST up reply actions
what the heck are you talking about?
“a few days ago” I made a comment about how Dempster was the best pitcher on the team, and you decided that it meant I wasn’t giving Zambrano enough flack for not living up to his potential, which, of as usual, is a situation you’re exaggerating to be worse than it is.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 11:49 AM CST up reply actions
I forgot you can't handle talking about 2 things at once.
I hope whatever job you have isn’t too difficult.
dood, seriously?
pete’s sake.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 3:27 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
You have showed before you can't handle talking here unless the subject is spelled out for you.
I will try to keep it simple in the future when trying to get something through to you.
I don’t have high hopes.
The only thing missing from is his posts
is a nah, nah, nah, nah at the end of them.
OK I don't know shit about basketball.
by SoulEater7 on Nov. 5, 2009 9:51 PM CST
...
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
really
I have no idea where you’re trying to go with this.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 4:39 PM CST up reply actions
agree that he's gone off the deep end a bit
but I gotta say your “consent =/= permission” repetitiveness in another thread probably didn’t help matters.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
I said that
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 5:35 PM CST up reply actions
so you have no concept of understanding the context of a discussion?
and the fact that 98% of the world isn’t as linguistically skilled as you?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
of course I do
but when he says that Lou had to get Soriano’s “permission” when the article clearly states that Lou made the change with Soriano’s “consent”, he’s using the wrong word to color the the article in a negative manner.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 7:06 PM CST up reply actions
Hey English teacher.....
So in your world, getting someones consent means something different than getting someones permission.
Wow.
yes. It’s different, especially in the context you were trying to use them in.
Consenting to something is what someone agrees to.
Permitting something is what a superior does for a subordinate.
They are not the same.
I don’t know what job you do, but when your manager comes and tells you “I want you to switch from running the Filet of Fish area to running the Fries, what do you think about that?” you consent (or not) to it. On the other hand, you ask your manager permission to get another roll of quarters from the safe.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 8:04 PM CST up reply actions
You two really need to leave each other alone
It’s tired.
you can’t get much by that #$%@ ballhawk -- LT
by Emelie on Jan 17, 2010 9:02 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
When lou said Soriano "consented" you mean he agreed...
Who cares?
Does it matter if he did or not? If he didn’t would lou have to leave him in the leadoff spot? Or can Lou do whatever he wants with Soriano, which is what I have been trying to get through to you.
Please, can't you two give it a rest?
If I have seen one thing from your arguments, it’s that you two will not agree on the points you are trying to argue.
In that case, it’s best to agree to disagree.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 9:29 PM CST up reply actions
I know,
But while I understand that sentiment, I think it’s time you two stopped.
It’s clear you’ll never agree on this issue.
My two cents.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 9:34 PM CST up reply actions
I also know he will do the same thing to me tomorrow and nobody will come to my aid and tell him to knock it off.
So I have to defend myself.
I'm not going to say any more.
I don’t want to get drawn into this argument should it flare out of control.
I just hope that between you two, cooler heads prevail soon.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 9:40 PM CST up reply actions
How could it flare out of control?
If he lays off, I will.
I had been ignoring him til he started his crap again.
that has absolutely nothing to do wth it
the problem is, you’re trying to use words to mean things that they do not. This isn’t a matter of opinion.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 10:49 PM CST up reply actions
because you don't think there's a difference
between agreeing with someone and giving permission to someone? You don’t see how suggesting that Lou had to get Soriano’s permission doesn’t paint Lou in a bad light?
Of course you do. It’s why you said it.
When you have a highly paid, highly skilled employee working for you, you don’t just change their job without discussing it with them first.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 10:48 PM CST up reply actions
So when you are cleaning the portable toilets at Grant Park after an event.
You consent to sucking the shit out.
But you get permission to add extra toilet paper.
Thank you for explaining it. I know from your experience you know what you are talking about.
english
you’re doing it wrong.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 10:49 PM CST up reply actions
Actually
That happens all the time.
I reject your reality and substitute my own.
by WayneCampbell08 on Jan 17, 2010 5:49 PM CST up reply actions
that you don't understand english?
I’m pretty sure that was confirmed to begin with.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 8:05 PM CST up reply actions
i dont know why you keep feeding the troll
by jesus christos on Jan 17, 2010 8:44 PM CST up reply actions
that should be a response to drew
not tj
by jesus christos on Jan 17, 2010 8:44 PM CST up reply actions
well for one thing
because I don’t like being misrepresented.
For another because sometimes silence means assent, and I refer you to my first sentence above.
When new people come onto BCB, I want to make sure they get a balanced picture.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 8:59 PM CST up reply actions
Thank you for clearing that up.
So I am a troll for not toeing the Drew line that all is wonderful with the Cubs.
So be it.
no
youre a troll because you pick someone to constantly stalk and argue with
by jesus christos on Jan 17, 2010 9:54 PM CST up reply actions
I have had my issues with people, but I guess you don't see how drew sure seems to follow me around.
I put something in here that has nothing to do with him, you can be sure there will be a negitive comment from him near it. I guess you miss these things omehow.
Are you saying he is a troll as well?
Or because you agree with him he is not?
Or because you agree with him he is not?
not really, i find his tendency to sip the kool aid annoying, but i dont argue with him about it
by jesus christos on Jan 17, 2010 10:04 PM CST up reply actions
the century thing
is a wash. It’s not like it’s been the same team for 102 years. I’m pretty sure the roster has turned over since then. So has the managerial staff, and even the groundskeepers.
I didn’t say you didn’t get to question them, and I get to have an opinion too. And in the end, the Cubs don’t give a good goddamn about your “trust”. The manager does what he thinks is best, not what the fans want him to do. And if he did do what the fans wanted him to do, he’d be a bad manager. Same thing goes for the GM.
You consistently operate from a position of having partial information — and usually, it’s the part that matters least. It’s ridiculous to think that Hendry or Lou are operating from the same level of knowledge. THEY KNOW MORE ABOUT WHAT’S GOING ON THAN YOU DO.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 10:32 AM CST up reply actions
Another great answer. I especially enjoyed the GD word on a Sunday morning.
When they win then they can be snobby like you. I couldn’t care less if they like my opinion. But they count on sheep like you to buy the company line all the time.
Enjoy your fantasy world. I am sure they will win 110 games this year.
Hopefully Scales makes the team. he will be needed to play LF when Sori goes down. I know you agree since you agreed with Lou that he was the best option to win in Sept and they have not added a 4th OF yet.
you like to infer a lot.
1) that I care that it’s sunday
2) that I agree with Lou on everything
3) that I want Scales back on the team
4) that they’re being “snobby” (lol)
So I’m just gonna let you go on doing whatever it is you think you’re doing, and I’ll go on doing talking about facts, and that’ll be that.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 11:51 AM CST up reply actions
Your points are exactly what I think of you. Especially 2-4.
Why don’t you go find some more weird stats to combat what most people see with ours eyes..
By the way tell me something Lou did wrong last year? And try not to change your previous opinions.
Did he not kiss your boy Bradley’s ass enough? That one would not count. How bout JH. Which moves sucked the most this offseason.
My guess is you can’t handle this.
weird stats?
lol… Your eyes lie to you. Weird stats, like WAR? You mean the one that shows Carlos Zambrano as being a plus pitcher?
Actually, I was upset with Lou not giving Pie enough playing time, but of course, that was in 2008, so you won’t like that. I thought that they should have brought Fox up much earlier than they did, as did a lot of people.
But in general I accept the fact that Lou has access to all sorts of information that the average fan doesn’t have; I also accept the fact that he makes decisions based on those facts, and therefore, they may be inexplicable to the average fan.
Want a Hendry move that sucked in the off-season? Trading a plus ballplayer like Milton Bradley for a minus ballplayer like Carlos Silva. The fact that we got $4-6 million back is the real saving grace of that trade.
But here’s the best part — I don’t have to justify myself to you. I don’t tell you that you’re being a bad fan.
By the way — Bradley’s gone. Get over it.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 3:30 PM CST up reply actions
SHOCKING!!!!
Drew thinks getting rid of Bradley was a bad idea!
At least you are consistant……
I am a good fan who holds my team that I spend time and money on accountable.
You as a fan are irrelevant. just one of the sheep.
how
exactly do you hold the Cubs accountable?
When they make a decision you don’t like, what do you do to get them to reverse it? Does Hendry include you on personnel decisions? Perhaps Crane asks you how much the hot-dogs should cost?
Listen up — you have NO INPUT. NONE. ZERO, ZIP ZILCH, NADA. The Cubs don’t listen to you. They don’t care what you think. They don’t even know who you are. Just like most of the rest of us.
NO. ONE. CARES.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 4:41 PM CST up reply actions
By asking questions here and other places.
I know I have no imput, fool.
But I don’t have to blindly follow everything the Cubs do like you do.
Try to keep up.
no, you don't have to blindly follow
but don’t think that by asking questions here or anywhere else, you’re in some position of control to hold any of the Cubs management, staff or players accountable.
Once again, words have definitions that matter.
And once again, you turn to name-calling.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 8:06 PM CST up reply actions
Do you honestly think I believe I have any say in Cub matters.
I have the same as you-none. You just come off very Muskat-like. A total Kool Aid drinker.
And you come across
as a 12 year old.
OK I don't know shit about basketball.
by SoulEater7 on Nov. 5, 2009 9:51 PM CST
Drew does not
call you out in other posts like you do him. You really do come across as childish when you do that.
OK I don't know shit about basketball.
by SoulEater7 on Nov. 5, 2009 9:51 PM CST
Then you have not been paying attention.
I only go after him when he comes after me. He starts it then hides behind all of you.
When he starts his snobby bullshit nobody says a word. But when I protect myself and go on the offensive, I am attacked…..Amazing.
That’s fine I can deal with it.
I have been paying attention
and I have never seen Drew say in a comment I wonder what TJ will have to say about this like I have seen you do with him. Here’s a suggestion since you two don’t agree on anything ignore his posts. Pretty simple really.
OK I don't know shit about basketball.
by SoulEater7 on Nov. 5, 2009 9:51 PM CST
No I haven't. I read it all.
OK I don't know shit about basketball.
by SoulEater7 on Nov. 5, 2009 9:51 PM CST
I'm laughing at
how ridiculous you are.
OK I don't know shit about basketball.
by SoulEater7 on Nov. 5, 2009 9:51 PM CST
Hahaha
You are the very definition of the term “persecution complex.”
Drew gets attacked plenty on this site, and with astounding frequency. He seems to do just fine defending himself, I’m not sure who he’s “hiding behind” or how that’s even possible on a discussion forum.
Everyone is attacking you because you’re a ridiculous sad caricature of internet insecurity, not because they’re siding with Drew.
BLou? Is that you?
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 9:22 PM CST up reply actions
Sounds like more nonsensical B.S.
from two guys who shouldn’t still be employed by this organization
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
by Nunyabidness on Jan 17, 2010 9:17 AM CST up reply actions
.....at least you called him out on it!
"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."--Rogers Hornsby
by cooliogirl47 on Jan 17, 2010 9:22 AM CST up reply actions
I'll quibble with you about one thing.
Hoffpauir isn’t a “kid”. He’s 30.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
here are 2 possible answers
1. colvin is playing his first full season since TJS and the cubs probably dont want to overwork him
2. the cubs might not have wanted fox’s trade value to go down when the GMs realize he cant hit breaking pitches
those are the only reasonable answers i can think of
by jesus christos on Jan 17, 2010 2:31 PM CST up reply actions
Jim said after the season
He sat down with Fox and told him he was gonna trade him to an AL team because that’s where he fit in. I figure Jim knew this before September. Also, Fox slumped pretty bad at the end of August and was bad in September.
I understand people disagreeing with the playing time he got, but Lou did have his reasons, even if they were wrong.
GREAT JOB JESSICA.....
Great Question I wonder what the squirm factor was ?? My son in looking at the photo that Al posted refers to them as The Three Blind Mice ……
Any Baseball is Better than No Baseball in January
… but is it just me, or did this Convention seem a little off compared to past years?
Just got back, and for some reason nothing seemed terribly interesting – maybe because there’s so much transition going on that everything is a little uncertain and hard to get into.
One other item from the business panel – a substantial majority of those in attendance were in favor of keeping the “L” flag flying.
As usual, spent a good bit of time in the clubhouse auction. Prices and selection seemed noticeably down this year – probably a combination of the economy and the realization that some players (cough Fukudome cough Soriano) aren’t quite performing at the level assumed by the market in past years.
Can’t wait for my Milton Bradley (“dime a dozen”) bat to catch up with me via UPS, though.
Exactly what I thought.
Hardly any real news, the Ricketts session was mostly a lovefest (expected), and I think expectations are lower this season.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I hope expectations are lower this year...
The Cubs can’t handle high expectations…(or at least the fans can’t).
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jan 17, 2010 12:18 PM CST up reply actions
I went last year
and wish I were there this year. However, I am going to Hundley’s Fantasy camp next week. I guess that makes up for it.
I'm going to Randy Hundley's fantast camp 7 days
Enjoy and please post about it when you get back.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Thanks Al
Tho I don’t post as often as I’d like, I really appreciate the ability to take a couple mins and grab all the latest news, unbiased, well, sorta. I like the fact BCB gives it to ya “the way it is”…like it or not! Keep up the great work!
x2
There goes one over the fence...a Tru-Link fence.
by truelinkfence on Jan 17, 2010 8:54 AM CST up reply actions
Great job reporting, Al
In regards to the Spring Training decision, it seems half the people I run into here are ask me if I had heard if the Cubs were staying in Mesa. I always wear my Cubs hat, so I get quite a few comments from other fans and interested parties.
Sounds like the Cubs are ready to go and forget the debacle that we saw last year. I kind of agree with Lou, if they could win 83 games will all the injuries, and crap that happened last year, 8-10 more this year with any luck in the health and production departments is a slam dunk, IMO.
Go Cubs!!!
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
I am sooooo jealous.
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
Organizational Philosophy
What a curious question/answer. Maybe I’m thinking of the phrase in a different way than JH and Al, but it seems odd for the scouting directors to set the entire organizational philosophy. I guess a GM can delegate as he sees fit. I mean you can be an overall good manager w/o being able to set your own organizational philosophy, so long as you know who to set that philosophy for you. But then the GM must hold the organization to following that philosophy, and we know when Fleita and Piniella clashed over Pie, Fleita lost. Perhaps Hendry’s answer reflects a changed viewpoint. Perhaps Sandberg is using this time to learn the organizational philosophy and the whole organization will be on the same page going forward.
But, initially, this answer doesn’t sit well with me.
"We’re going to come back here next year healthy and do what we’re supposed to do, and we’re going to be all right. That’s not Hendry’s fault. He thought it was the right move. It didn’t work out. But at the same time, he’s the same guy that put back-to-back championship teams together." - Aramis Ramirez
It was kind of a non-answer.
I wanted to hear about what they were going to do going forward. Instead he talked about what they’ve already done. Didn’t really have time for a follow-up.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
that's because Hendry doesn't really HAVE a plan for the future.
It’s why the franchise is such a mess, and why Hendry shouldn’t have a job.
Giving him another year is going to be the first huge mistake of the Ricketts’ tenure.
Hope it’s not the first of many
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
by Nunyabidness on Jan 17, 2010 9:19 AM CST up reply actions
He does not have a future here, period. A bad start and he and Lou will be gone mid season.
I am excited about Maddux being around. I wonder if he is being groomed like Sandberg.
It was kind of vague
but when it says “in charge”, I took it to mean “in charge of drafting and development”. I didn’t take it to mean that they’ve set the organizational philosophy, just that since those two are in charge of scouting, drafting, and developing hundreds of players, the organizational philosophy is kind of ingrained in their heads. Jim’s main job is to sign/trade guys that already fit this philosophy; Fleita and Wilkens job is a lot more concentrated than that.
I don't see this as a quiet off-season... here's why.
Whether the payroll is set or not shouldn’t matter at this point… we’ve filled a few spots with solid players who may or may not have a resurgent 2010… (not in any particular order)
1.) Center field. Byrd may not be perfect at the plate, but anyone that doesn’t bitch and moan at every turn and blame everyone but themselves is going to be an upgrade in the outfield (hmmm, good movie title for the Cubs… Upgrades in the Outfield). Plus with Rudy as his hitting coach, maybe Marlon can find that magic he found in Texas.
2.) A full season with Soriano at 6. I think that is going to make a HUGE difference in run production with a guy like Theriot (or anyone else, really…) leading off and maybe causing some havoc on the bases.
3.) We’re getting an All Star catcher back. 40 lbs. is 40 lbs. You go put that weight on and try squatting down for 4 hours every day and then running around… I promise you’ll be slower and much more lethargic WITH the weight than without it. How many teams can honestly say they’re getting an All Star catch back?
4.) We’re getting an All Star pitcher back. Once the Silva experiment is over (good or bad) we’re getting an All Star left hander back and perhaps our most consistent winner in Lilly. Once again, how many teams can say they’re going to pick up a bona-fide All Star left handed starter in April/May?
5.) The cancer is in remission. I say remission instead of cured, because we don’t know for sure that Bradley was the problem, but I honestly think that with him gone everyone is going to be lighter on their feet, more open, and have a better attitude – especially during the losses. That infectious “culture of losing” isn’t going to stick around as long with players not being distracted by off-field antics.
6.) Emergence of bullpen stars. Marmol, Caridad, Grabow, Berg, Guzman, Berg, etc. These guys will all have a full season in their REAL roles. Hopefully low doesn’t play musical chairs out there and sticks with guys in their roles all year long instead of shuffling the deck every time he thinks he needs to. A full year of Carlos as the closer will be good. Guzman will slot in as a top 5 setup man, and our left handers are just as good as anyone else’s. There are some wild cards out there, but I’d rather have the question marks with the middle-infield guys than with the 7th, 8th and 9th inning guys.
7.) Two words… Randy Wells. It’ll be interesting to see if he suffers the Sophomore Slump, but this Tom Brady doppelganger (seriously, he looks just like Tom Brady… it’s uncanny) has the stuff to continue his Maddux-esque career with great success. Hopefully he gets the run support he deserves and doesn’t run out of gas.
8.) Organizational Attitude Adjustment. It’s about winning now. It’s ALL about winning. Everyone knows it. The goal (one goal, haha) is to win the World Series, and nothing else will be accepting. Simply making it to the playoffs isn’t good enough anymore. We have to bring home the hardware, and finally the upper management is in place to ensure that everyone is held accountable, no matter what. Yes, this is me saying fire Lou Piniella if we don’t win the World Series.
9.) The Resurgence of Derrek Lee aka How Derrek Got His Groove Back. Yeah, corny, I know. But wasn’t it fun watching him again? You EXPECTED production, almost anticipated it with every at-bat. Personally he reminded me a LOT more of 2005, which was great. If he can continue that streak into 2010, and Ramy stays healthy, I think we’re going to be ok.
So I think 9 points is good, I could go on, but I’d be nit picking. These are all great reasons why this has been a great offseason, even without any “stunning” acquisitions. I think we all forget how spoiled we really are as Cubs fans with this roster, and come April and May when we get our core of players back (and barring any injury) I think we’re gonna be great in 08… wait, fine in 09… no, that’s not it… We’re gonna win it all again, in two-thousand ten – amen. There it is :-)
by lswaidz on Jan 17, 2010 10:50 AM CST reply actions 5 recs
i was going to be nice and leave the Berg twins alone
as well as the “Hopefully low doesnt play musical chairs” since I am known for my typos as well
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Anything good?
Feel free to email me, I’ll be looking for a few come ST. After last years collapse I kinda forgot about you, sorry buddy. At least I didn’t back out on a bet or anything… haha, sorry… bad memory? ;-)
email me, my email on my profile, im about to head out for a few hours
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Rewrite this as a New fan post
Rec’d, and it’s too good to be lost in a sea of comments.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jan 17, 2010 3:23 PM CST up reply actions
Thanks, SDSJM
Maybe later this week… we’ll see :-)
I’d like to elaborate on my own thoughts a little, and next time maybe after the whole pot of coffee is gone :-)
I promise that I am optimistic about this season...
and hope that you are 100% correct. But I’m going to throw out a couple of devil’s advocate perspectives to some of these points.
1) Was hoping to get Byrd on a 2 year, but whatever. Hopefully he works out.
2) This presumes health from Soriano, which may be wishful thinking. If he does stay healthy, I think you are correct.
3) I am thinking Geo bounces back, too, but his weight loss doesn’t automatically mean he returns to All-Star numbers. I’m thinking more along the lines of a little better than splitting the difference between 08 and 09. If he does that, he’s probably not an All-Star, but certainly would be a boost to the Cubs.
4) I don’t really get this. Can’t you also look at it as LOSING an All-Star pitcher for a month? We all hope/assume Lilly will bounce back strongly, but shoulders are always dicey situations. In the meantime, the Cubs will have to get by with question marks in the 4 and 5 spots in the rotation (instead of just the 5th).
5) Agreed and well put.
6) Agree in principle, but I would quibble with the “star” label. I am much more optimistic about the Cub ‘pen than many are, but you seem to still be a few steps above me.
7) Again… I agree that he should be solid, but he was really, really excellent last year. I’m not sure we can expect him to truly replicate last season.
8) Agreed.
9) Agreed.
I love the overall sentiment… so just a couple of differences in interpretation.
Thanks, fsuapollo
Let me respond one by one, if you don’t mind…
1.) Given the money his contract is reasonable, albeit slightly backloaded. If we can get .260 – .280 out of him and above average defense with NO “incidents,” if you will, I’ll be very happy with him in center and Dome out in right.
2.) Exactly. But him in the 6 hole means less running and exertion… so maybe he’ll stay healthy for 500-600 AB’s this year.
3.) As a guy who was skinny and in shape playing ball in high school and then got fat (well, not fat but 185 up to 225) and tried again after college… it’s a BIG difference so I’m hoping some conditioning will help here.
4.) Agreed, the other side of the pillow isn’t very cold here… but honestly, Silva is going to get what, 7-10 starts before Lilly is back? Even if he’s a .500 pitcher that’s a win for us. Worst case we have 7 extra losses. Honestly I’m more concerned with Tommy G in the rotation.
5.) Thanks :-)
6.) You know, if these guys are even “servicable” we’re already ahead of the division. The one place the Cubs have organization depth right now is in the bullpen. There are so many options that I’m honestly not worried.
7.) If we get 10 wins out of Randy I’ll be happy. The losses… well, we’ll just have to see how many runs we can spot him. Again, see #2 regarding run support.
8 and 9.) Thanks again :-)
now you ruined the future fanpost
unless you make it a prequal
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
lol
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 9:01 PM CST up reply actions
great job al
Awesome job Al. Maybe next year I’ll actually make it to the convention.
Totally OT...
… and given that there are LITERALLY no details yet i don’t think its worth a FanShot, but Bears DE Gaines Adams Dies At Age 26.
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
Well i'll be darned.
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Jan 17, 2010 11:27 AM CST up reply actions
There are some details coming out
Head to the link in that FanPost to talk about it… sounds like a heart attack is the cause. Still very sad. But this is a happy thread, so no sad talk here!
A heart attack at 26.
Unbelievable. Sincere condolences to his family.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Fanshot even.
I never say the right one… even when I wrote the damn thing… haha. More coffee please.
On this subject,
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 8:56 PM CST up reply actions
Where / why?
Not saying i disagree. I just want it done a very specific way and i’m interested in others ideas.
Dum spiro spero... | Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Jan 17, 2010 11:35 AM CST up reply actions
LF behind the bleachers
they want to block the rooftop advertisement, why not use a jumbo tron to do so?
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
You'll have to move around less
And pray for power-hitting lefties. You’ll be like Lou in 2009
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
should I admit I just had a picture
in my head of you in your casket with your glove on?
you can’t get much by that #$%@ ballhawk -- LT
funny you should mention that...
I’m not fanatical about it (yet), but I do try to keep the last ball I caught that day separate from the rest. And when I catch the next one, I replace it with that one and so on… I definitely have the first ball I ever caught (BP from George Brett back in Cleveland) separate.
So if I ever get around to writing up a letter and putting it in that “to be opened in the event of my death” envelope, part of it will specify that I want to be buried with the first and last ball I caught.
You may now commence with the “two balls” jokes…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
What about the "two ballhawks" jokes?
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 8:10 PM CST up reply actions
shouldn't it be
commencing with the “four balls” jokes… or is there something we don’t know ;-)
you can’t get much by that #$%@ ballhawk -- LT
I knew you would
“love” that idea, but it does make sense if they are to put it anywhere. Sadly it would take away from your fun
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
eh, I'd probably just start drinking more. That can be fun too.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
do ballhawks ever get to see home games???
"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."--Rogers Hornsby
by cooliogirl47 on Jan 17, 2010 8:05 PM CST up reply actions
sure - I go in every now and then
I usually try to go to Opening Day if I can – though to be honest, that’s more the wife’s influence than mine. I may know more about baseball, but she’s a much bigger Cubs fan than me.
And towards the end of the season if the Cubs are out of it, there’s always a good chance of “free ticket day” out on the street. There were a lot of those last season.
Sometimes though, I will make an effort to go inside if the mood strikes me. And several years ago, when Randy Johnson was the scheduled starter and the wind was blowing in, the mood struck me big time. I snagged a ticket in the lower boxes along the right field line and just watched in awe as the Big Unit dominated and toyed with us all at the same time.
Needless to say, nothing reached the streets that day, so I didn’t miss anything. The Cubs did though – a lot! ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
good to hear....I thought they were all work and no play.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."--Rogers Hornsby
by cooliogirl47 on Jan 17, 2010 9:36 PM CST up reply actions
I would be ok with it...
Only if it’s on a house across the street. Anything WITHIN Wrigley would be too much and distract from the stadium aura. Something subtle, and about the size as the Miller ad in right field would be ok with me. Perhaps one in right and one in left… but they need to make is GAME RELATED first… stats, facts, replays… no fluff like other stadiums. I don’t want to see a Deep Dish Pizza race or something stupid between innings. Although a “Fan Cam” would be ok, as long as it’s 90% breast-related like they do on the TV broadcasts… amiright?
well on the board beneath the scoreboard
they already have goofy races and stuff like that between innings, so I’d imagine they’d do the same if a big board was erected.
true, but if turning Wrigley Field
into a pinball machine wins us a World Series, do it.
I would hate every minute of the stadium lighitng up with flickering lights all over for ads covering every inch of wall, concrete floor, upper deck railing, etc. but IMHO if it brings championships home with it, then do it. I can buy sunglasses to watch the game on TV if needed.
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Exactly
You can disagree with me if you want, but in my opinion Wrigley doesn’t seem as fan friendly as it used to be. I’m not putting down Cubs fans, but I think Wrigley needs something a little extra to keep peoples heads in the game other than a 7th inning stretch guest conductor and organ music. And if it brings in a little more ad revenue, then that’s a bonus. I don’t know if anyone noticed, but lawn mower races and all those things are actually veiled advertisements.
+8008
Some men learn through what they read. Some men learn through what they're told. Some men have to piss on the railroad tracks. And some men keep on pissin'.
Totally random
but my friend put Steve Trout in a headlock just joking around, last night outside the bar. It was hilarious.
Flag test!
Okay, my wavy “W” flag from last year doesn’t work anymore. Let’s try this again.
1.
2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 
6. 
Okay, please let me know the number of the flag you can see. If one flag appears to be seen by everyone, I will select that flag to be my wavy “W” flag for next year.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:06 PM CST reply actions
On my Mac, I can see 1, 3, 5, and 6.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:09 PM CST up reply actions
on my pc i see 1,3,5,6
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
2 and 4 no workie
Is this like the Cubs Fans eye test or something? ;-) Do 4 out of 6 games with W flags make me near or far sighted?
No.
During the season, I celebrate Cubs victories by posting a wavy Cubs win W flag, linking to an online player that plays “Go Cubs Go.”
Unfortunately, the flag I used last year is from an inactive account thesee days, so it no longer works. This is a test to see which Cubs win W flag shows up on various browsers, so I can continue making my celebrations after Cubs wins.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:16 PM CST up reply actions
Now I see it.
Thanks for pointing it out.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:24 PM CST up reply actions
its almost ST for BCB also
no worries
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Thanks for picking that one up, Tim
Took it off the chest on the short hop, way to complete the put out :-)
It is a test of your "blood Kool Aid level" test
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
On my Mac using the iCab browser I see 6 animated flags
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
Even I don't see that.
Apparently, 3, 5, and 6 are the flags I can choose from.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:17 PM CST up reply actions
With Firefox & Safari 3, 5, 6 on my Mac, and 1, 2, 4 are marked as "account inactive"
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
I see only 3, 5, and 6.
Using Safari on a G4 iMac with a PowerPC processor.
"Only a mediocre person is always at his best." ~W. Somerset Maugham
1, 3, 5, 6
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 4:42 PM CST up reply actions
Firefox on WinXP
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 4:42 PM CST up reply actions
Yeah, that appears to be the general consensus here.
I’ll use one of those if Drew doesn’t get me something.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 5:12 PM CST up reply actions
on my mac, using firefox...
1. Dome leads off with a walk.
2. Riot strikes out.
3. Lee singles up the middle, Dome stops at 2nd.
4. ARam flies out to deep RF corner, runners advance.
5. Byrd intentionally walked to load the bases, and…
and…
and…
6. Soriano FISTs one out of the park for a grand salami!
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
A passerby. All the ballhawks are in a state of shock...
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
1, 3, 5, 6, with 5 being the largest
"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."--Rogers Hornsby
by cooliogirl47 on Jan 17, 2010 8:24 PM CST up reply actions
Drew and I already took care of this for next year.
I just wish I still had my flag from last year. That account went inactive a while ago.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 8:25 PM CST up reply actions
3, 4, 5, 6 work for me
Catch my act on Twitter as @dat_cubfan_dave.
by dat cubfan daver on Jan 18, 2010 12:20 PM CST up reply actions
It's okay.
1 was the flag I tried using above twice.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:14 PM CST up reply actions
Why don't you just upload one to ImageShack...
… and save the link, and just post that? You don’t need an account there at all.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Working on that right now.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:38 PM CST up reply actions
Can't do that.
Apparently, I don’t have the “architecture” on my computer to do that.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:43 PM CST up reply actions
VFC
do you want me to upload it to my website? I can do that and give you the link. It’ll be there for a good long while.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 4:45 PM CST up reply actions
Sure, go right ahead.
I tried uploading 6, so if you can upload that and enlarge it a little bit (about the size of my flag last year), I’d very much appreciate it.
Thanks!
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 4:46 PM CST up reply actions
I'm not smart enough
to make an animated .GIF bigger, but here it is:
http://pics.livejournal.com/dwer/pic/00061k3a
And for Cubbie-Tim:
http://pics.livejournal.com/dwer/pic/00062fsy
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 5:43 PM CST up reply actions
was being a smart ass
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
Surrender your self to the dark side!
Be a Cardinals fan who hangs out on the Cubs blogs, like me!
Sorry, channeling BLou there. If ever there were a Cardinals fan here, it would be him.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 6:19 PM CST up reply actions
Very funny
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
@Twitter as @brommmietze
Got it, thanks!
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 6:17 PM CST up reply actions
you can also find it here
http://newdrew.net/misc/wavingflag.gif
if that one doesn’t work.
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 7:09 PM CST up reply actions
Let's see.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 7:38 PM CST up reply actions
And, the celebratory flag...
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 7:40 PM CST up reply actions
rokkin!
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Jan 17, 2010 8:06 PM CST up reply actions
Thanks!
That’s the live journals one, so now, we know it works.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 8:07 PM CST up reply actions
why dont we all get a link to your site?
are we not special enough
/sarcasm
Just because you talk a lot doesn't mean you're saying anything. dtpollitt 1-7-10
That's not possible.
ImageShack should work on any computer.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
More random "Cubbie Occurrences" from Days 2 & 3
Al’s done a great job giving you a LOT of info from his sessions. It was also nice for us to finally, formally meet (at Cubs Bingo).
Here are a few of the rest of my observations, FWIW.
On Day 2:
After scoring my Ernie Banks autograph voucher (see the Convention Sidebar for the complete story of HOW it came into my possession), my weekend was made. Everything else was gravy in my eyes.
I decided to try and get a photo with him as well. Ernie was doing a regular session (no lottery voucher needed), so I made plans to do that in the early afternoon before the late afternoon autograph session.
In the morning, I went to the end of the Ricketts session, took some photos and then got a seat for the 25th Convention Retrospective session. This session involved Sarge, Zonk, Ryno, Sut, Hawk & Sanderson. Wayne Messmer was the MC.
These guys had the room in stitches.
Two quick funny stories (I’ll clean them up to be G-rated).
The first was from Sarge. He said he, Leon Durham and Shawon Dunston were all in the trainer’s room in the Jacuzzi. Greg Maddux came into the room and asked them: “Have you ever seen three black guys run from a white guy?”. They said: “What?” Maddux repeated: “Have you ever seen three black guys run from a white guy?”. Sarge said that Dunston said: “No! Get out of here!” At which point, Mad Dog unzipped his pants and “made water” into the Jacuzzi driving the three other players out and as far from Maddux as they could get.
The second story came after Sutcliffe asked Ryno why he liked fire so much. Sandberg (and Sutcliffe it turns out) is apparently a “hot foot” and fire “prank” legend. Sut told a story of Ryno pouring a ring of rubbing alcohol around the rim of one of the toilets in the clubhouse. He then put down the toilet seat (over the alcohol). He then swabbed a thick trail of rubbing alcohol down the outside of the bowl, across the floor and around the corner out of the bathroom. And he waited.
Sutcliffe went on with the story. Sarge walked into the bathroom (newspaper under his arm) and proceeded to enter the stall in question, took a seat and began to do his business.
After a few moments, Ryno lights the alcohol trail. The line of fire rolls into the bathroom, across the floor, under the stall door and up the commode to the final contact point under the seat rim – and under Sarge. Whoosh!
Sarge roared out of the stall screaming with Sandberg (as as we later learned his partner in crime Sutcliffe) hightailing it out of the clubhouse to safety.
The convention ballroom crowd roared with laughter as up on the dais, Sarge just looked down and shook his from head side to side…
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by Zeke on Jan 17, 2010 5:38 PM CST reply actions 3 recs
Sutcliffe said Ryno also would take the shoelaces out of another player's cleats...
and just soak them in rubbing alcohol. Then he’d re-lace the cleats and wait for an opportune time during the game to light the ticking time bomb. Usually after a the tsargeted player had just had a timely hit or “gone yard” and was most distracted and vunerable.
The player they specifically mentioned as one of their most memorable victims: Yep. Sarge (again).
Sutcliffe laughed: “It was just great. Those cleats would just EXPLODE!”
And up on the dais, Sarge just put his head in his hands as the story finished…
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I am sure that was the "G" rated version of the Maddux story
the old phrase " not in those exact words" comes to mind.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jan 17, 2010 9:29 PM CST up reply actions
HAHAHAHA!!!!
Rec’d.
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 17, 2010 8:09 PM CST up reply actions
The 25 years session was my favorite session
I wasn’t born when the 84 team was doing their thing, but I could tell my parents loved what was going on since this was one of the teams they cherish the most.
"You just don't know understand how frustrating this is"- Kevin Borseth
Oh, and Al,
Re: pictures. From personal experience, the flash doesn’t always work indoors when the person/people you are trying to take a picture of is/are far away.
I’ve messed up numerous pictures that way, so I see nothing wrong with your pictures. Thanks for them!
"People ask me what I do in winter when there’s no baseball. I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
-Rogers Hornsby-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jan 18, 2010 12:43 AM CST reply actions
Just re-looked at that pic
Fake-smile central!
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
Not at all.
Dempster is a genuinely good guy. I didn’t think that was fake at all.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Had to laugh a bit at this:
The number of articles between Florida, Arizona and Chicago media the last few days — though none had incorrect information — had a lot to do with various posts here claiming that Florida was getting the bid; Arizona was getting the bid; or somewhere in between.
So the Cubs announced a compromise: They’ll begin to train in east Texas…
It’s kind of like the (sick) joke that went around about Ted Williams after he passed away. His daughter wanted him cremated. His son wanted him frozen. Ultimately, they agreed to compromise and store him at room temperature.
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