Castro Overthrows Reds, Makes Spectacular Debut (And Cubs Win, Too)
by Al Yellon on May 8, 2010 7:30 AM CDT
in Chicago Cubs Recaps
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PrintWell, I guess he's ready.
The Cubs, having been swept in Pittsburgh, apparently felt they needed a "spark", so top prospect Starlin Castro was recalled from Double-A before yesterday's game.
A spark? The Cubs got a raging inferno. Castro tripled and homered in five at-bats and drove in six runs -- the most by anyone in his first major league game. Let's hope he has a better career than the other five Cubs who homered in their first major league at-bat (Paul Gillespie, Frank Ernaga, Cuno Barragan, Carmelo Martinez, and Jim Bullinger). Of those, only Martinez had any sort of decent major league career, and 98% of it was with other teams. The most home runs hit in a Cubs uniform by those five players was six (Gillespie and Martinez).
I'm pretty sure Castro will do better than that -- maybe by the All-Star break, at the rate he's going.
Paul Gillespie did have one distinction that we hope Castro matches -- he played in the World Series as a Cub (in 1945).
Castro's three-run homer in the second inning definitely seemed to inject some excitement into this lifeless team, as they then racked up eleven more runs between the third and the eighth, scoring a season-high 14 and beating the Reds 14-7. Marlon Byrd joined the homer parade with a two-run shot in the sixth and nearly had another one in the eighth -- his drive hit the yellow line in left field and was ruled a double by replay. After a walk, Mike Fontenot pinch-hit for Sean Marshall and decided to make that debate moot by hitting a grand slam (the Cubs' first pinch-slam since Derrek Lee hit one at Wrigley against the White Sox on May 19, 2007).
There were all kinds of numbers posted, broadcast and tweeted last night about Castro's spectacular debut. But this one is my favorite: he already has twice as many RBI this year as Ichiro.
Of course, this won't happen every day. If Castro goes 0-for-4 tonight, will there be calls to send him back down? Probably, although we hope those would only be in jest. Castro appears here to stay -- Ryan Theriot shifted effortlessly to second base, and that, according to Lou, makes Mike Fontenot the backup shortstop. That isn't how I'd do it -- if Castro needed a day off (and I wouldn't do that too often), just move Theriot back to SS for a day, and play Fontenot or Jeff Baker at 2B.
As I said, hopefully, that won't be needed too often. Castro made the most spectacular first-day Cub debut, probably, since Ron Santo, who debuted in a doubleheader on June 26, 1960, and in the two games went 5-for-7 with a double and five RBI. If he can have a career half as good as Santo's, we'll all be very pleased. (In addition to all the other distinctions, Castro also becomes the first major league player born in the 1990's.)
Among players who hit home runs in their first major league at-bats, their careers wound up all sorts of ways. Castro became the 107th player to accomplish this feat; looking over that list, we come across a bunch of "who's that?", and a few players who had decent major league careers, the best of which probably belong to Gary Gaetti, Tim Wallach, Will Clark, Carlos Lee and Jermaine Dye. Again, if Castro can come even close to those guys, we'd be fine with that, I think. Curiosity: the only Hall of Famer in the bunch is Hoyt Wilhelm, a pitcher who homered in his first ML at-bat and then never again.
About the rest of last night's game: Carlos Silva got hit pretty hard, allowing ten hits in five innings, including a home run to relief pitcher Micah Owings (who, granted, is a pretty good hitter) -- fortunately, it didn't matter, as by the time Owings homered in the fifth inning, the Cubs already had a 9-0 lead. Silva did throw strikes again last night; he'll need to keep the ball down in future starts to succeed. It was also nice to see Derrek Lee have a good day and show signs of breaking out of his slump; Geovany Soto had three hits (he barely missed a home run, too, when a fan reached over the yellow line and caught his ball in right field); if Geo had two more plate appearances, his .362 average would be second in the National League. And I'm going to join the call for Aramis Ramirez to get his eyes checked -- he's doing things (like that awful throw he made last night) that would indicate to me that he might be having trouble with his vision.
Finally, I know we're all excited about Starlin Castro. But there really was no need to start five separate threads about him last night. The four that were started after the first one weren't really necessary -- I left that one because one of them related to a topic that wasn't being discussed (about what ownership might do), and thanks to hansman1982 for posting a game thread when mine didn't post. But please, check the posting list first, and just post a comment when a topic like this is already being discussed -- otherwise, that pushes other good posts down the list and off the front page.
Thanks for understanding. And thanks to Starlin Castro... this season just got quite a bit more interesting.
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So, Al...you've changed your mind about Castro being ready?
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
No reason. Just wondering.
Anyway, his premiere was at least more auspicious than, say, Felix Pie and the others we’ve come to be disappointed with.
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
pie
threw a guy out at the plate and doubled in his first game
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on May 8, 2010 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions
Wow. I think you're right.
Actually, he’s been hitting pretty good of late: .400 until he got injured this year. Last half of last season he also batted well.
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
Cubs gave up too early on Pie
With patience the Cubs might have developed a Cano
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
i still think
Granderson is the right comp
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on May 8, 2010 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
That would be a pretty good comp.
And we’d have taken that.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Lovin this
Thank you for givin me somthing to enjoy!
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
by StevenABQ on May 8, 2010 7:43 AM CDT via mobile reply actions
Calling up Castro ...
instantly made the Cubs more watchable and interesting. And it appears it will make them a better team, too.
People need to understand
that Castro is very young. He may struggle at times, as is expected of a young player, but that should not get calls to be sent down. If he hits .250, .260 that would be fantastic for such a young player with so little experience.
by mdcubsfan on May 8, 2010 7:47 AM CDT reply actions 3 recs
Agreed.
He looked like a child in the highlights compared to the other MLB players I’ve seen.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 8:25 AM CDT up reply actions
Absolutely
Everybody needs to take a VERY deep breath and remind themselves that this is only ONE game.
I’m excited too but experience has taught me to not get too ahead of myself when it comes to hot prospects. I’m not going to start counting prospective HOF ballots right now anymore than I’m going to jump the cliff if he goes 0 for his next 20.
Give him time, enjoy the ride but don’t expect miracles.
by bluekoolaide on May 8, 2010 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Exactly.
In fact, that is what I am doing with Castro. I hope the best for him, but I’m also aware that last night was his first game in MLB, not in the minors.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions
LOL...that's cause he is a child comparatively.
Agreed.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions
Wow.
Just to be able to watch a game like that … especially after Pittsburgh … and to be able to replace sardonic comments with genuinely gleeful ones … what a kid. what a debut!
Bleed Castro Blue
I am pumped
but, i was there in Atlanta on opening day when J Heyward hit that 3 run shot against us in his first MLB at bat. he has gone through struggles now and so will Castro. I am fine with that but alot of people will overreact. PATIENCE. That said, it did seem to get us going. Look what Davis did for the Mets, they are still rolling
"Baseball is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical." -Yogi Berra
Heyward's still doing pretty well.
He’s hitting .294/.413/.624 — that SLG ranks fifth in the NL, he’s 5th in HR and 3rd in RBI.
Let’s hope Castro can keep this going. That was tremendous fun to watch.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
i know, but
Heyward struggled for a few weeks and people were overreacting here. I can imagine what our fan base is gonna be like. I personally love it, but dont look forward to all the negativity after a couple af bad days.
I saw the Big smile on Rami’s face when he gave Castro a hug after the HR.l hopefully it gets Rami going.
"Baseball is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical." -Yogi Berra
And, apparently, did pretty well before and after that.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
the question is, will Lou allow Starlin to attempt to work through it
or will the first prolonged slump mean getting lost on the bench like Pie.
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
by Nunyabidness on May 8, 2010 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions
The question is also if Castro will be developed fundamentally here.
Since he got so little time in the minors at AA…none at AAA.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions
I would hope he could learn a thing or two from
Alan Trammell, who like Castro came up at a very young age (19). Trammell went on to be one of the best shortstops of his time, only behind Cal Ripken and Ozzie Smith (arguably). I would imagine Trammell will be working with Castro extensively on the fundamentals and hopefully help him develop into a star player.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
(disclaimer) POST NOT ABOUT CASTRO
Did anyone see SportsCenter’s top play? Ike Davis made a catch over the railing. It looked almost identical to the one he made against the Cubs in his first game (?)
Plus 2 home runs
Rookie of the year ( sorry Starlin)
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on May 8, 2010 8:04 AM CDT up reply actions
I have hard time believing Heyward won't get it.
Only because the same people who vote on it have already deemed him the “Next-Babe Ruth”
by mic on May 8, 2010 8:05 AM CDT up reply actions
Heyward is likely headed to the DL
Davis spectacular defense is going to help.
FYI I posted this before in more obscure thread. Mets got Davis as the 18th pick in the first round of 2008. They got the first round pick from the Braves as compensation for the Braves signing Glavine. Wow just Wow.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on May 8, 2010 8:10 AM CDT up reply actions
My favorite thing about Castro's performance
was his pitch selection and control. The HR would have been just a long sac fly at most ballparks, but I was thrilled with a sac fly in that situation after he had worked the count. The triple came on a full count.
Plate discipline always seems like the hardest thing to learn for a young player. Seeing Castro mix up a few long productive AB with a few more freeswinging at bats would have been a promising sign even if both those long balls had been caught in a bigger ballpark.
It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??
Extra bases to right
Extra bases to left center.
Note to mates: good abs are available on both sides of the field.
Aramis's eyes
How does Aramis’s bad throw draw a logical conclusion of eye problems? He couldn’t see Derek Lee? He saw two first basemen? Seems like quite a leap to me.
Yeah, maybe he's not seeing across the field well.
If it were just the throwing, I might not say that — but combined with his hitting problems, I do draw that conclusion.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I Think Rami
is hurting somewhere. Could it be his shoulder? I know it seemed okay when he came back last year but has he aggravated the injury somewhere along the line and is he in denial? He isn’t just struggling, he’s not himself at all. Even a normal age-related regression wouldn’t have him falling off a cliff they way he currently is.
And so it goes.
If it's injury...
… it might be that tricep he hurt in spring training.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Yeah the throwing problems on top of the poor hitting makes me wonder that too.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
What I don't understand
is why Lou is so insistent on playing him every day. Right now he is just a big hold somewhere in the middle of the lineup. When putting a player in who is at the Mendoza line will improve the team it might be time to make the move.
And so it goes.
wonder if Fontenot might get some starts at 3B?
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
Completely agree.
It makes sense ONLY if the Cubs are 100% sure he is healthy, but even then, he’s hurting the team right now. At some point you have to think of the team and not jump starting his season.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions
He doesnt look like his old self
That subtile cocky swagger is gone? Maybe it is just the lack of positive results? But he just does not seem healthy. When he first came over to the Cubs I remember he would always do this thing with his eyes at the plate. Almost looked like he was making lovey eyes at the pitcher. This cracked me up even though I knew it was just part of his prep. Here is hoping he can get that “I’m going to hurt you even though I look like a nice guy” back. Maybe I go to far but I really appreciate Aramis and want him to do well for his own sake.
There goes one over the fence...a Tru-Link fence.
by truelinkfence on May 8, 2010 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions
The shoulder injury would have nothing to do with
his poor throwing, it was his left shoulder that was injured.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
Not necessarily.
It’s possible he’s altering his throwing motion/swing to compensate for an injured left shoulder. Not likely, but possible.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
its a stretch, but
I guess its possible. I would think it would effect his swing more than his throwing motion.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
Don't be sure about that.
An injury makes compensations with the rest of your body that few people besides physical therapists and doctors can predict. I think for instance his injured tricep is likely to have come from his dislocation as a compensation. I’d be surprised if he isn’t at least injured to some degree…reading Soriano was injured last year as a lot of people suspected just heightens this.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm not sure I buy into all this injury stuff
He’s literally swinging out of his shoes. He can’t be doing that if he’s hurt badly enough to affect his swing.
I’m looking for that one moonshot from Ramirez that opens up the floodgates and then a couple 3-4 games to get his confidence up. I wanna see that tater tonight. Great park for it too.
I also see this from a golf perspective. There’s a lot of times when I’ll just try to bang the ball as hard as I can (no twss pls!) and I end up taking my eyes off the ball and either shank it or miss it entirely. But if I back up, take a breath and simply take a 60% power swing I’ll usually make perfect contact.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions
Granted, a golf ball is a stationary target whereas a baseball is coming at you at 90mph
but the point remains valid I think
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions
Well, if it makes you feel better
I sure don’t think his recent spat of errors or lack of concentration fielding is because of a possible injury. I think the slump is the reason for it.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions
Maybe he needs glasses?
I hate to suggest that, but this hasn’t been considered.
And the eighth and final rule: if this is your first time at Fight Club, you have to fight.
Nothing wrong with suggesting that
But it’s been suggested many times here already, I think. The thing though is they have every player do an eye test at the beginning of the season don’t they? So how would they miss it if he needed glasses? Remember Wells went through that glasses phase in spring training.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions
I have some vision problems, and they do affect alot of stuff.
I have a lazy eye. It’s not bad and unless you seriously look you can’t notice it except for when I look to my left. Whenever i look to the left without turning my head i get bad double vision, making it pretty hard to throw across the diamond. and when im batting I struggle to see the ball. Given Ramirez probably doesn’t have a lazy eye but bad vision does make things more difficult.
"Castro also becomes the first major league player born in the 1990's"
Man, now I am feeling old.
Lets Play Two Today
Me too
My kids were born in 2000 and 2003. My 10-year old and I were watching Starlin hit, and he told me, “Wow, he looks young!”
"They found a delivery in my flaw." - Dan Quisenberry
I was born 1960 - Turning 50 later this year will be weird.
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
When do you sleep eths?
You have to watch the game in the middle of the night for evening games. I admire ya…I know Bremen was a wasteland of sports besides soccer news there. The interenet was frequently the only way to see what was going on.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't usually stay up for the night games, or only the first few innings.
Dozed off during the second yesterday. very embarrassing*
When I’m off work, I stay up most nights, and sleep during the morning hours. I used to do this even as a child.
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
Bet you said MIST! when you saw what Castro did lol.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Wow I didn't know grown ups could use blogs!
Well, I’m a whole month older than Castro and for me it is odd to be rooting for my peers rather than my elders.
by Uncle Stanley McGoober on May 8, 2010 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions
Just wait 'til your peers start retiring from sports
"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
Here's how old I feel
Went to see Peter Gabriel last night. In my mind he looks like he did when “Sledgehammer” and “Big Time” came out, but now he’s become this stout old man:
Sittin' on the ledge and sippin' Kool-Aid...
No offense
as PG is my favorite musical artist, but – did you see him in a piano bar?!
Just not sure I want to see Peter Gabriel doing covers and standards.
But hey – I am still remembering WOMAD and his first U.S. Tour with Genesis.
Selling England by the Pound
awesome album, he he
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
He played the Hollywood Bowl
He performed his latest covers album in its entirety and a selection of his own songs, backed by a full orchestra. Amazing stuff!
Sittin' on the ledge and sippin' Kool-Aid...
For awhile there, I was down to a trio of active big-leaguers older than me
Jesse Orosco, John Franco and Julio Franco. Then Jesse retired and I was down to the two Francos. Then John hung it up, and it was just Julio. Finally he faded away (probably still playing in Mexico somewhere) and I was all alone….
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
I mentioned that in the game thread
and it made many of us feel old
Unofficial Self Appointed President of the Player Formerly Known as Castro Blocker Fan Club
Bleed Castro Blue
I feel old looking at him.
It didn’t occur to me just how young he is until I saw the highlights last night.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions
This might get blown out of the water--
But anyone see Starlin’s similarities to Hanley Ramirez. I think I’ve heard the comparison has been made before. I’m not sure Castro has the same kind of power—but they have a similar type of swing.
I wouldn't blow it out of the water...actually it seems fairly restrained compared to what
A lot of other people on here are saying. But he’s not a power hitter…at least surely not yet. One homer in the minors this year. 8 homers in the minors in the previous three years. That’s little power…not a different kind of power. I hope he tears it up, and hopefully will get a lot of hits. But I don’t think anyone should expect him to hit home runs, even after one game and one homer. He looked fantastic…but it’s one game, let’s not expect him to be a power hitter over that.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions
I've always said Castro's ceiling is Ramirez.
Maybe not as much power as Hanley, but I do think Castro can hit .320 or so every season in his peak.
2010 is OUR year.
Advice:
I was working on something and listening to the game on the radio. I came down to see Castro’s first at bat on TV and my husband was watching Everyone Loves Raymond instead of watching the game. I went back to work and found out I missed his 3 run homer on both TV and radio. He owes me big time. I’m thinking maybe I can get a new TV out of it at least. How long do you think I can milk it? Or should I be nice? I did get to see the triple-which upon viewing the replays did seem just as exciting.
"And away we go..."-Pat Hughes
I missed the first four innings
but luckily for me, CSN ran the game again last night around midnight or so. Thank goodness for my DVR!
"One of the things I like about baseball is that between innings you can go to the restroom.'' ~Manny Acta.
I should.
We only have one that is hooked up to cable. It’s never been a problem before. I mean, who watches something else when the game is on? Ugh. Everyone Love Ramond. C’mon! Now I know, that when I’m not around, he’s lost.
"And away we go..."-Pat Hughes
Katie
Is there something you really want done that he is dragging his feet? If so milk it.
But we ran in for a few groceries b/c after the last few nights we figured we won’t miss much.
"I cherish this dream I had as a little kid to play baseball,'' Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on May 8, 2010 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions
I thought the title of the article today would be...
…“A Star(lin) is born.”
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
Caption
You know how it works here kid. You playe3d so well, I’m gonna have to bench you.
"I lof to hit de home ron!"
One more note about last night, not Cub related...
… well, sort of. Congrats to former Cub Jamie Moyer, who became the oldest pitcher in history to throw a CG shutout — a two-hitter, no less, against the Braves.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Moyer
Indeed. Phil Niekro was the former record holder – he was 46. Amazingly, Moyer broke in when Niekro was still active (and Niekro was born in 1939).
"They found a delivery in my flaw." - Dan Quisenberry
One of my favorite Niekro facts.
When he signed with the Yankees as a free agent in 1984, one of his teammates was Jose Rijo.
Rijo was born on the day Niekro got his first major league win, May 13, 1965.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Fun Moyer fact
His rookie season (1986), one of his teammates was Sarge (Gary Matthews).
His previous start (last Sunday, May 2), first batter he faced was Sarge Jr. (who went 0-3 against him)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Good one
I remember Moyer and Maddux both being very promising young pitchers for the Cubs in 1986/87. In fact, at the time, Moyer looked like he might be the better of the two, especially when Maddux struggled so much in 87. It’s astonishing that both had such long, successful MLB careers, and that they both came up the same year for the same team. Too bad most of their wins didn’t come for the Cubs.
"They found a delivery in my flaw." - Dan Quisenberry
I told this one before
but according to Maddux when Moyer was back with his 2nd stint with the Cubs in the early 92, he failed to make the roster and the Cubs told him while they did not think he could be an MLB pitcher , they thought he would be a great coach and offered him a job in the system which he politely declined. He spend 92 and early 93 in the minors before making it back to the majors with the O’s.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on May 8, 2010 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions
Great story, Doggie Stalker
I didn’t know that. What a turnaround he made. At the time, I thought his career was over.
"They found a delivery in my flaw." - Dan Quisenberry
If you would have told me, at the time of the Mitch Williams trade,
that Palmeiro would hit 500-plus homers and Moyer would pitch a CG shutout at 47, I would have thought you were crazy.
by Not Bruce Froemming on May 8, 2010 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions
Not if you saw Palmeiro on the juice...
And i’m not talkin’ about Sandberg’s wife.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Hey-O!
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on May 8, 2010 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions
He was a rookie
for the Cubs when I went to my first game at Wrigley in 1986. To think he is still playing. We played the Expos and Dawson that day.
"Baseball is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical." -Yogi Berra
That was cool to see, a major league record.
Congrats Jamie. I wonder now how many teams have given up on you? Surely you’ve outlasted most GMs and pitching coaches.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions
I still think the most interesting thing about Moyer
is that his father-in-law is Digger Phelps.
by Not Bruce Froemming on May 8, 2010 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions
I missed all the Castro posts yesterday.
And I’d rather not go back and try to read them now because it messes up my windows explorer to open 1000+ comment posts. Curious-do more people seem to be for or against bringing up Castro? Did the reaction beat out the Z to the pen posts?
"And away we go..."-Pat Hughes
It was far more positive - generally - than the Z posts
But the front-page one was great fun in an of itself. BCB at its goofy best at times.
"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
Do you mean Internet Explorer?
Use another browser—something better—like Firefox or Google Chrome.
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
by zevkalman on May 8, 2010 8:36 AM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Yep, it is internet explorer.
When things are going crazy here, I usually switch users to my son’s firefox. Wasn’t sure if it was worth doing that to check yesterday’s comments though.
"And away we go..."-Pat Hughes
Are you using Firefox?
Even at work, where the computers are notoriously slow, threads like that open up quickly on Firefox.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 8:37 AM CDT up reply actions
I clicked on the thread and used my iPod stopwatch to time it.
On my Mac, using Safari, that thread took 1:18.8 to load. The comments loaded in about two seconds, but the other junk on the sidebar and top banner ate up the other minute and 16 seconds. Unreal.
"One of the things I like about baseball is that between innings you can go to the restroom.'' ~Manny Acta.
11 seconds with Chrome on a PC
Your Internet connections sucks, man.
"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
This thread took about 11.7 seconds to load.
Maybe it was all the GIF posts in that thread that slowed it down.
Usually, threads, even big ones, take only a few seconds to load. Most other sites are lightning quick. If it drags on too long, I usually just hit the stop button and proceed straight to the comments. I don’t need the “Acai Berry Diet Exposed!” ad on the sidebar to enjoy the thread content, anyway.
"One of the things I like about baseball is that between innings you can go to the restroom.'' ~Manny Acta.
Amen.
GIFs ought to be heavily moderated on game threads, and pic size needs to be addressed as well.
Note about photo size.
The physical size of the photo isn’t what’s important, it is the FILE size. Please keep all photos on ANY thread small in terms of file size, and the same rules apply to photos as comments (no profanity, and please keep them SFW).
Thanks.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
And take care that they are not too heavy either... ;-)
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
Hmmmm...I like it.
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
With internet explorer
it there are too many comments (seems like anything over 650) it tries for awhile to open, unmarking all the unread comments in the process and then just gives up and takes you back to the home page.
"And away we go..."-Pat Hughes
One thing I didn't like about last night.
Lou’s decision to insert Grabow into the game. He had a lot of us on the edges of our respective seats while struggling to record the third out.
I posted the ERAs of the relief pitchers last night, but here they are again.
Justin Berg: 2.77 ERA
Jeff Gray: 6.75 ERA
Carlos Marmol: 0.66 ERA
Sean Marshall: 2.25 ERA
James Russell: 2.70 ERA
Carlos Zambrano: 0.00 ERA (since moving to the bullpen)
John Grabow: 9.26 ERA
The previous high ERA for Grabow was 5.11, in 2004. I’m not entirely sure what is going on with him, but if he can’t correct it by the time Caridad comes back, either send him down or DFA him.
And I don’t understand why Lou keeps trotting him out there. Grabow is on pace to have what is by far the worst season of his career. And yet he keeps coming out of the bullpen to pitch in games.
Already going to him cost us a game in Atlanta, and he blew a tie game in Cincinnati in April. Why, Lou? Send him down or DFA him.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 8:36 AM CDT reply actions
How about a DL stint?
And a nice long “rehab” assignment?
"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
Disagree
It was a good, low pressure situation for Grabow to come in so that he could get some badly needed work and also get a good evaluation by the coaching staff. Unfortunately, he was horrible. This appearance may be the most telling yet and I’m sure he is one of the major topics of discussion in the front office right now. I suspect he goes down when Caridad comes back.
And so it goes.
Again, the yells of "DFA".
It. Will. Never. Happen. Grabow is signed to a two-year deal. Agree with it or not (and right now, I admit it looks pretty bad), there’s no way the Cubs eat that contract.
If Grabow is hurt, put him on the DL. You can’t send him down without his permission. That’s why he is pitching in blowout games like this one. In fact, last night/‘s appearance was weird — he got two VERY quick outs, THEN got pounded. I can’t understand that.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Yeah, that's what I couldn't figure out either.
It took forever for him to get that third out. Thank goodness the game had a ten-run lead.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions
Cubs should make him a LOTGY then...
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on May 8, 2010 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
LOTGY?
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions
LMAO
Unofficial Self Appointed President of the Player Formerly Known as Castro Blocker Fan Club
Bleed Castro Blue
Probably should be LTOGY then...
as I believe LOOGY stands for Lefty One-Out GuY
So he’d be a Lefty Two-Out GuY, right?
I subscribe to the Lefty Only One Guy definition....
….probably because I’ve watched Lou for too long. “Only One” seems to happen a lot more than “One Out” when he’s handling a bullpen.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
It should happen. They should try to trade him, make up a mystery "forearm injury"
Or whatever it takes. He is horrible and anytime he is in a game we are likely to lose it. Grabow needs to be off this team as soon as possible.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions
Makes one wish people here never heard of "DFA"
It has become the most over used, misunderstood term here.
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
Yep.
When people start yelling that, what they really mean is “unconditional release”. Which wouldn’t happen in this case, either.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
exactly
castro should be the one DFA’d. come on, ONLY 6 rbis?
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
by jesus christos on May 8, 2010 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions
Um you should use a struggling ( and I am being nice) pitcher
when you have a 10 run lead. Heck I was afraid Lou might use Marmol to get some more work.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on May 8, 2010 8:55 AM CDT up reply actions
Lou's thinking with Grabow was brilliant-
with a safe lead, he wanted to exhaust Red’s hitters by inserting Grabow.
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue." - George F. Will
Ya know, on nights like last one, I can almost believe that.
It’s a lot funnier than the grim reality Lou just has little to work with. Though I don’t want to see Grabow as an option anymore…there really isn’t much a lot better besides Marshall and Z right now for middle relief. Guess perhaps Russell as well. Perhaps.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions
And I was thinking you would get it right
Using Grabow was a good idea. Huge lead, put it your pitcher who could use the work andmaybe iron out some issues. I don’t blame Lou at all. They were ready to yank him if he didn’t get the flyball to Fukudome.
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
we had a 9 run lead
that’s exactly the time you use your worst RP
my problem was when we were up 6 or something like that and he brought in Sean Marshall
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on May 8, 2010 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions
Marshall had thrown only once in the last five games...
… and threw only 15 pitches last night. I don’t have a problem with that.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I didn't either. I think Z could use some work as well.
And you’d have to say with only using Marshall for 15 pitches, both are available for tonight’s game…for more than an inning if need be.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions
he wasn't used in any of the close games in PIT
but used in the blowout, its a problem that Lou doesn’t recognize how to use Marshall appropriately
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on May 8, 2010 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions
Mikey,
welcome to the Dark Side! It feels good to demand for a DFA, doesn’t it?
Kidding aside, DFA is too harsh and expensive. The situation he pitched on yesterday was ideal. But it’s still too expensive. The person who needs to be DFA’d is one James Hendry.
Caption: "Grandpa, is that enough RBI?"
Fukudometer: Created 3/31/08 Wrigley Debut 4/5/08 WGN and Japan TV Debut 4/6/08 Sun Times Debut: 4/20/08 Coffee Table Debut: 7/17/08 (http://www.wearecubsfans.com)
by Fukudometer on May 8, 2010 8:44 AM CDT reply actions 4 recs
Best. Caption. Post
"I cherish this dream I had as a little kid to play baseball,'' Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on May 8, 2010 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions
"Great game tonight Kid! You can stay up an extra hour."
There goes one over the fence...a Tru-Link fence.
by truelinkfence on May 8, 2010 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions
Winner
Wish I could rec from my iPhone.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on May 8, 2010 10:36 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I wish SBN had a BCB-specific application.
And allowed more than just commenting.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
If SBN hopes to compete with the likes of the big-wigs in the online sports world,
they need one. Pronto.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
That doesn't really interest me.
Recommending, auto-reloads, comment scrolling, and FanPosts/Shots are bigger deals.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
That'd be nice too.
I like to check my profile to see if someone has responded to something I’ve said.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
I hope so. If they had an open API (a little like Twitter) I would have started working on one a long time ago.
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
Thank you for not saying "RBIs".
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
Note to self: Add "RBIs" to my "How to really annoy Dan" list
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
it will all be for naut
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on May 8, 2010 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Nice to have some pressure on the middle infielders
Colvin seemed to push the outfield into performing. Hill’s more frequent starts early on seemed to help push Soto and now Castro hopefully will help push our middle / bench guys. Not just talking about offense here.
This being said time to remind the OF what Colvin can do and get him a few more starts.
Congrats Starlin!
There goes one over the fence...a Tru-Link fence.
Call Me Skeptical
I know Hendry needed to do something to spark the team but I am so fearful of bringing a player along too quickly. You all know the litany of can’t-miss names that have worn Cubbie blue over the years that have crashed and burned after promising starts. Will Starlin Castro be the next in a long line or is he really here to stay? It was a real thrill watching him last night but sooner or later he will be hit with the realization that he was the centerpiece of a move designed to get the team out of the doldrums and the wieght on his shoulders will increase exponentially. Please let me be wrong.
And so it goes.
Yeah...it's ONE GAME people...Granted, the most spectacular debut in history,
So we should be going crazy over that…but come on, even Al is saying he’s going to have this many homers by the all star break. In this year so far in the majors, he hit ONE. In three years in the minors previous, he hit 8. People here need to take a breath! What makes you or anyone expect all of a sudden he’s gonna be spanking homers after one game? He’s got a great minor league BA, seems fast and throws hard…but whoa…it’s one game, he’s not Ernie Banks yet. I’ll admit I was one who thought they should wait to call him up, and I hope that turns out to be spectacularly wrong. Let’s see how he does for say…at least 3 weeks huh? The league is definitely scouting him and will adjust.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions
I am happy. I expect he may have a great year.
Actually, I’m saying don’t go crazy over him after one game because as you said, the calls for DFA on here come fast and furious for players. I’m just looking for a little perspective is all with optmism. And, thanks for that graphic…she was hilarious on SNL.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions
Thought your user ID was "Starlin's evil twin" for a second there... ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Nah, I'm far too old for that to work :)
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Well
You are wrong. Simple enough.
"When the day comes with that last winning run and I'm crying and covered in beer. I'll look to the sky and know I was right to think someday we'll go all the way." - Vedder
What will tomorrow's winning lottery ticket numbers be?
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions
is it too early to rename this
BLEED CASTRO BLUE
Unofficial Self Appointed President of the Player Formerly Known as Castro Blocker Fan Club
Bleed Castro Blue
I feel like jumping out of a window...
I stayed up for the game but dozed off shortly before Darlin’ Starlin’s first AB (c. 2 AM Munich time). I am watching the archive now.
All I can say, WOW what a start in the Bigs. I hope he doesn’t soar too high too fast. Good steady production is what the team needs.
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
It concerns me
that Lou is sticking with Riot at 2B even when Castro gets the day off. That’s the kind of statement Lou made when he played superior SSs at 2B refusing to move Riot off SS. The statement says, “He is our 2B.”
Fontenot should still get a good number of starts at 2B against RH pitchers; his upside remains higher than Riot’s.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
Fontenot's upside higher than Riot's?
Really?
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on May 8, 2010 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Fontenot's career year is miles ahead of Riot's career year numbers.
Riot has no power and never will. Fontenot has a better plate approach.
And if the claim is that Fontenot’s career year happened only in part time play, well that’s what I’m suggesting here, that Fontenot should get part time play and Riot – who wears down – should, too.
As it is now, Riot’s overall OBP/SLG is the same as Fontenot’s OBP/SLG v. RHP only.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
by DGU on May 8, 2010 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm failing to understand....
You’re not factoring in Fontenot’s inability to hit lefties and the fact that he has more power to say he has more of an upside?
He was given the starting 2nd base job and failed miserably. Theriot’s been a dependable .280ish hitter starting every day.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on May 8, 2010 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions
Theriot has had bad stretches too.
I’m saying play them part-time and Fontenot never against lefties, so why does his inability to hit lefties factor in?
Fontenot’s career OPS is better than Riot’s.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
by DGU on May 8, 2010 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions
Because Riot can hit both lefties and righties?
No reason to platoon him and admittedly Lou has either refused to or not had the back up SS to give him more rest when he’s in a bad stretch.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on May 8, 2010 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions
Splits
Theriot hits RHP .288/.348/.355 on his career.
Fontenot hits RHP .276/.349/.431 on his career.
Do we decide playing time on what the player has earned or not?
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
I think you are pointing to the obvious
For now Theriot was the starter but I see Lou working some sort of platoon with the two of them. Further Baker might see some starts at 3B against LHP’ers and if Ramirez continues to struggle something will happen.
In the meantime Fontenot could get an occasional start at 3B. Not the answer but something that in the meantime could happen,
Now if his triceps is hurt he needs to go to the DL. Of all the players with the big contracts Ramirez now seems the most targeted to get traded.
Problem is that his player option goes into effect if traded: But either way you have to count on that he will exercise it now, $14.6M
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
You're basing it all on power numbers....I think.
And I think Riot has earned the playing time.
Player A: Can hit righties the same as player B. Can hit lefties much better than Player B.
Why platoon player A?
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on May 8, 2010 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Your scenario does not match the Cubs' scenario
Theriot matches Fontenot’s OBP v. RHP and falls far short of Fontenot’s SLG.
You “think” Riot has earned the playing time. I see no numbers to prove this.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
Well...
…except for the whole “leads the NL in hits” thing.
Seriously — there is no doubt Theriot is a better player (fielding, throwing, hitting, running) than Fontenot.
How many times has Juan Pierre led the league in hits?
Does that make him better than Ryan Braun, Manny Ramirez, etc.?
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
Braun was a bad example
but, you know, the general idea….
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
by DGU on May 8, 2010 5:29 PM CDT up reply actions
In his heyday he was arguably as much of a spark
as Jimmy Rollins if not more.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Oh sweet Lord no.
Have you seen him throw a baseball? Ever?
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
spark plug offensively
That’s what this discussion is in regards to. Defensive failings aren’t really part of this discussion.
But yes I saw him throw a baseball, it was hilarious. It hit the ground and made a divot like 10 feet in front of him.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions
That analogy says that Juan Pierre is Ryan Theriot – and Fontenot is Ryan Braun.
I know Fontenot hits for more power, but I think the Theriot vs. Fontenot argument is really not much to debate. Neither of them should be the second baseman after this year. Pretty much this year, I think it’s a wash between the two.
2010 is OUR year.
An analogy can be exaggerated
when someone (Chadnudj) suggests the question isn’t even on the table just because of batting average.
I agree with you that “it’s a wash” except that I see them as more useful in differing situations.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
by DGU on May 8, 2010 6:12 PM CDT up reply actions
And your scenario...
…is that since Fontenot is more of a power hitter, and Riot is only a singles hitter, he should get more playing time.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on May 8, 2010 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions
I have to disagree with you as well. I hope they keep Riot in there for a long time and
give him a fair evaluation. I’ve never been a big fan of the platoon system…unless for limited situations. To me this isn’t one of them, despite the GS last night, Riot is the better hitter to me and should be in there everyday.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions
What kind of fair evaluation does he need?
We know exactly what Riot can and can’t do.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
by DGU on May 8, 2010 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions
At SS. He hasn't played much 2nd in the bigs.
We also know for sure what LBR can do, and it isn’t hit as well as Riot over the long haul.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions
Wait wait wait.
I’m giving you the wrong idea here. I LIKE LBR…I like having Fonty on the team. If the Cubs had more than one spot they wanted to play the two…I’d want him on the team. To me they both are light hitting, scrappy players that have a passion to play. Just because I think Riot is better…doesn’t mean I’m hatin’ on Fonty. I just wouldn’t know what to do with him besides being a pinch hitter and spot starter.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions
Neither hits well over the long haul
which is why I’m suggesting split time.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
by DGU on May 8, 2010 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions
I'd agree both have had lapses in the past.
I think Riot is more consistent over time, which is why I’d want him to be the starter for awhile and see what happens. But …you’ve got LBR there so it’s not really important if I’m right or wrong, which is a nice situation to have.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions
Riot's monthly splits from 2009 do not speak of consistency in OBP/SLG
Riot’s AVG makes him look better than he is as a hitter.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
The good news is that...
… Theriot tends to wear down late in the season. Now, if that happens, you have a competent replacement.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Well, exactly.
It’s his avg overall…and yes I’d agree he does seem to fade at the end of the year. You have Fonty there if he does fade, and Riot to me has hit better for his career. Since they both started at the same time, seems fair to compare their hitting careers.
Man, it sure would be nice to have a SS that can actually throw the ball to first without a hop.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions
When you compare their career AVG/OBP/SLG, they are roughly equal,
but with different strengths and weaknesses, which means that if playing time really was based on merit they would split time. Play Riot when the pitching/catching tandem are poor at throwing runners out. Play Riot against poor IF defenses. Play Riot when the wind’s blowing in. Just don’t play him everyday because he used to be the starting SS.
Otherwise, what has he done to earn more playing time against RHP over Mike Fontenot? How has he earned it?
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
I think they need an everyday player and splitting them
for righty/lefty leaves Riot (or Fonty if that’s who you choose) sitting on the bench too much and cooling him. I just think a platoon is not a great strategy for a lot of positions. When they heat up, bam…there’s a lefty/righty…right back to the bench. I’d like to see Riot given the chance to play everyday.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions
And I think there's the rub.
Some believe platoons work – I’m one of them. It’s a fair disagreement.
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
Fair enough.
I’ve seen the platoon work at 2nd base…also see it fail. I don’t consider myself an expert, nor look into splits as you do. Just my two cents lol.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions
In theory
But my original point is that Lou is telling us he’s not likely to do that, just as he refused to do with Riot when he was the starting SS.
Now I understand that old school wisdom says the SS is the lynchpin of the infield defense and so you stick with him day after day. So maybe that explains past behavior. But now Lou’s suggesting he’ll do the same with Riot at 2B. Otherwise, why in the world would you play Fontenot at SS and Riot at 2B?
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
I'd wait a bit before getting concerned.
We all know what Lou’s track record is with public statements about playing time…
…right, Tyler?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on May 8, 2010 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
No surprises
Anyone that watched Castro this spring could tell he’s a legitimate player. He has quick hands, he has exceptional hand-eye coordination and is wiry strong. He plays hard and has an electric auru to his game. He was one of the best players in the organization in the spring and continues to be.
But I already told you that. Some of you just didn’t listen. And no, he won’t do what he did last night every night…but that’s just fine. He’s a complimentary player right now…and a very good one at that. He makes the Cubs better instantly.
"When the day comes with that last winning run and I'm crying and covered in beer. I'll look to the sky and know I was right to think someday we'll go all the way." - Vedder
You have no way of knowing
that Band Aide won’t repeat last night’s performance the rest of the season. At his current pace I expect he will become the 1st rookie inducted into the Hall of Fame while still active.
If a quality pitching start is 3 runs and 6 innings, then a quality hitting day is 1 for 4.
First of all...
…I must give the qualifier that it is only one game, and we all know how long and mentally grueling the season is. He clearly has talent, and appears to have a good character as well, but we’ll see how the important piece of this develops; how well he adjusts over time to the league starts to adjust to him.
With that said, youthful energy and excitement can be an important ingrediant to interject some life into a team. The Cubs are a veteran club, and it’s not a bad thing for the Lee’s Ramirez’s etc. to see a 20 year old kid come in and do what he did to wake some dudes up.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
100% agree. Love to see him bring energy and I hope he keeps up contributing.
I would love to see him get ROY and tear up the league…that smile of his is infectious. It would be great to see someone on the team that actually has speed for once.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions
This smile?
Coach said we could get ice cream!
"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
Man that was so cool to see last night. The whole dugout was smiling!
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions
Check out DGU's avatar.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions
I love that picture
As all can see —→
4/9/10: Carlos Silva strikes out Joey Votto on three pitches. Is that what you mean by "small sample size"?
by DGU on May 8, 2010 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions
Like I said....
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Very cool, DGU.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions
kid needs a haircut
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
by jesus christos on May 8, 2010 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Neifi Perez had speed.
Unfortunately, it was in his locker.
"One of the things I like about baseball is that between innings you can go to the restroom.'' ~Manny Acta.
http://www.instantrimshot.com/
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on May 8, 2010 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions
ROY race could be fun to watch
Heyward, Strasburg, Ike Davis, and Castro. As a result, I don’t think Castro will be flashy enough to win it, but this is a great rookie class.
It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??
by Invalid User on May 8, 2010 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions
+1
I would actually venture so far as to say that starlin has the advantage of being in a position where he can really flash some leather and compile an awesome highlight reel as well as gaudy stats to make a strong bid for ROY.
Possibly wishful thinking though bc he wont have the power numbers as heyward or davis. We may possibly, if things keep up, have two perennial candidates for a batting title in Soto and Castro over the long run.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Went to
Mark Knopfler concert last night ( great show) Going through the radio dial on the way home to find the score. Found out 14-7, I said great. Next update (WFAN New York) 20 minutes later, found out Castro had the 6 RBI’s, even better.
I was all for this. Hope he can keep an even keel, and just played solid baseball.
This team needed and injection, I just hope the team will play ball and get on a good run. Go win 16 out of 22, get a run going.
I like the afro...and since he's the youngest Cub since Oscar Gamble...
…..I’m hoping by the end of the year, he’ll let it grow to something similar to this:
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
He does have a similar look....
Don’t know how he ever kept that hat on.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on May 8, 2010 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I was immediately thinking of Cardenal. Love to see those old pics. Stylin'!
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions
Couldn't find
a Davey Rosello card?
by Not Bruce Froemming on May 8, 2010 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions
Rosello had more length than heighth.......
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on May 8, 2010 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions
Actually, I was thinking a very young Nipsy Russell when I saw the dugout picture above (now DGUs avatar)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
And he plays
the Nipsy Russell card.
What is this site coming to?
WHERE IS THE MODERATOR!
The Heckler loves you, Al
"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
Niiiiice!!!
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm lovin' Castro mania. that is funny...although probably true.
Can’t I say I love seeing him do well, enjoy going crazy over one night…and say whoa, let’s not EXPECT him to hit 40 home runs this year all at the same time? hate being called debbie downer :(
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions
Of course he's not going to do this every day.
Just maybe every other day.
:)
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Lol...Let's certainly hope so!
Man I loved seeing those smiles in the dugout last night. He brought a lot of energy to the team, and it’s very cool to see someone who can steal on the team. I may not expect him to hit homers, but there’s a TON of upside if he can be consistent. That would be so cool to see…his enthusiasm looks infectious.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions
Hey Clutch, thanks for bringin' the victory home last night for the Hawks!
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions
and check out the poll on the right hand side of that page
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Wow I may care about this team in 2010.
Here’s to the rebuild.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on May 8, 2010 9:52 AM CDT via mobile reply actions 1 recs
Anyone see sportscenter last night?
They showed Castro for the normal time in a summary of a team, same on BB tonight. 15 minute segment on rookies…only it was Strasburg. Come on…I know he’s playing in Syracuse, which is why ESPN has a hardon for him, but Castro set a major league FREAKING record!
Castro had a good night…STRASBURG, STRASBURG, STRASBURG….let’s go for an in depth analysis of his Triple A debut!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It’s triple freaking A…not the majors!
Followed by an ad for the Yankees playing Sunday night…then, another ad for the Yankees playing on Monday night…I hate the East Coast Sports Promotion Network from my toes to my eyelids.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:29 AM CDT reply actions
Thanks for reminding me why I don't watch ESPN any more.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
That's fine with me
I’d much rather that Castro fly under the national radar while he adjusts to the major leagues. As I was watching the game last night, I was hoping against hope that we weren’t going to suddenly see the kid popping up on Letterman or Leno.
by bluekoolaide on May 8, 2010 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions
You have no idea how much I wish there was a local network showing
Scores scrolling on the bottom besides Fox midwest…which of course shows Cardinals highlights constantly. It’s like russian roulette between them and ESPN.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
ESPN = Excessive Self-Promoting Network
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Pujols is an exception to the rule of ESPN promoting East Coast.
He had to show he was the best hitter in baseball for years before they started showing him so much. And I think most people would agree he’d be on there even more had he been on the east coast.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions
Very true.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions
I recall the same treatment
for Prior from ESPN, though.
That was before the Yankees and Red Sox had won 10 of the last three World Series.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
"10 of the last three World Series"
Not sure if that was an intentional joke, but I LOL’d all the same.
Sittin' on the ledge and sippin' Kool-Aid...
My mistake.
It was actually 15 of the last four WS.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
The way you first said it
is funner…and more apt IMO. :-D
Sittin' on the ledge and sippin' Kool-Aid...
thats exactly what I expected, which is why I didn't bother
….In other news, Joba Chamberlain said he was hungry.
Again?
If he eats any more, even the name “Joba the Hutt” will be an understatement … oh wait, he’s already a Hutt, since he’s that big.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions
FANTASY UPDATE!
I just bid $31 for Castro once he becomes available on May 11. This is entirely overpriced but I care naut.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
I like naut better.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions
So what Dan said is all for naut?
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions
That's naut very funny...you guyyyyyyyys!
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions
I am trying to get him off waivers
I think I can , as I have the # 3 pick and the other two don’t seem very active.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on May 8, 2010 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't mean to be a jerk
but perhaps you could offer me a trade for him
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
by Nunyabidness on May 8, 2010 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions
castro for lind man
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
by jesus christos on May 8, 2010 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions
I Want Derosa, Wood, PV and LIND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1111!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
I forgot, I actually have Lind.
Deal’s off
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
I think you need to make a "handshake" deal with the person who has the #1 pick
Have them pick up Castro and then trade him to you for one of your scrubs. Then years from now, everyone can totally abuse and berate that owner, saying “We coulda had Castro in the waiver draft”.
In case the above scenario is too vague, think Hamilton and Rule 5 draft. I know, I know… if you have to explain it, it probably isn’t funny…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Sorry I missed the great debut
but if missing htese games is causing this, then I will gladly stay away forever, he he. Congrats to Castro, and also the Hawks, who can close out the Canucks, next game.
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
love the title of the thread, Al.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
Anyone listen to the radio call yesterday?
Saw Castro’s hit and then got invited to a friends for Cubs/Hawks action and listened as Pat welcomed a WGN exec to the booth with his son Tyler. Pat joked that if Lou needed some late game help that Tyler was there with a Cubs hat and glove. Ron, not paying attention, jumps in about how Tyler doesn’t get much playing time, even though he lit it up during spring training. I couldn’t stop laughing. I really love Ronny, he’s a great guy and a great ambassador, but those moments where he really messes up entertain me
"Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world. If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off." ~ Bill Veeck
Yeah, I caught that one too.
He’s been having a lot of those moments lately. It’s getting rather sad. The worst was when he accidently called Pat “Sam” the other day. I admit I laughed. Pat handles it with such grace.
"And away we go..."-Pat Hughes
He sure does. He's always like a little kid at heart. Love that innocence.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions
I know Starlin won't play every
game like he did last night and that’s ok but for the first time in a long while I am very excited for tonights game. The reaction to his homer by his teammates was awesome. Maybe he is the shot in the arm this team needed.
I'm sure that was why they called him up last night in particular.
The Cubs certainly did need it, and I’m just as excited to see him again myself. Imagine…he has speed and can throw the ball to first without a hop!
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions
Very impressive first 3 AB's
aggressive when he needed to be, worked the counts and protected the plate with two strikes and both hits were off breaking balls (one a mistake, one not). He really sees the ball into the plate
He did give away his last two AB’s, really bad approach, but we were up big and not throwing away ABs is one of the toughest things for all mlb players to learn. The elite ones are the ones who throw away the fewest ABs
remarkable first start, just fantastic and exciting to watch
Goldstein hung a .270/.335/.415 projection on him which would be fantastic for a 20 year old and after watching the way he approaches ABs last night (even ignoring the great results) I could even see .285/.345/.420, which would be remarkable
i dont think i’ve been this excited about watching a Cub since Mark Prior
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on May 8, 2010 11:01 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs
I was pretty excited to watch
Soto at the end of 2007 and into 2008, especially considering we’d been through Barrett, Bowen, Hill, and Kendall up to that point.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
Castro's WAR is only 0.2!
DEMOTE! DEMOTE!
http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=4579&position=SS
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
in one game
he’s been more valuable than john grabow has been over the last four years
http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=1848&position=P#value
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on May 8, 2010 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions
hell yeah
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
by jesus christos on May 8, 2010 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions
Caption:
Castro- “No comprendo Lou. En espanol por favor”
''I'm really not a Facebook or Twitter guy. I'm a prime rib and baked potato guy.'' - Sweet Lou
Si
but he might have spoken english out of habit.
''I'm really not a Facebook or Twitter guy. I'm a prime rib and baked potato guy.'' - Sweet Lou
Auf Deutsch bitte. Ich spreche nicht Englisch.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Better bring in Eths.
I think that last phrase should be, Ich spreche Englisch nicht. Can I get a ruling?
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions
What's going on with Grabow?
Every year it seems Hendry extremely over values one player.
''I'm really not a Facebook or Twitter guy. I'm a prime rib and baked potato guy.'' - Sweet Lou
nothing
if you look at his peripherals he’s the same pitcher he’s always been
he’s just having a lot worse luck this year than in the past (.426 BABIP)
he was overvalued because of having good fortune in the past that was unsustainable, which is why i complained all offseason about the ridiculous contract he was handed
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on May 8, 2010 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions
It's not even close...
to simply being bad luck. BABIP doesn’t tell you everything. Grabow has been hit very hard this year.
its not just bad luck
its that he had been EXTREMELY lucky
so when you go from extreme good luck to extreme bad luck this is what happens
yes he’s getting hit harder, his LD Rate is up, but most of the difference is simply switching from extreme good luck to extreme bad luck
at the end of the day he’s a mid 4’s ERA pitcher with a mid-1.40s WHIP
that’s not good enough to get 3.75 million over 1 year let alone two
he should’ve been a scrap heap guy and the Cubs treated him like an elite reliever
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on May 8, 2010 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions
Not much else to put in there is my explanation.
To me it’s the only possible good reason for it.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions
Grabow=Heilman 2.0?
"Hello again, everybody. It's a bee-yooo-tiful day for baseball."
Harry Caray 1920-1998
"How could Jorge Orta lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico."
HE'S IN!!!!!!
Grabow= 2008 Howry 2.0
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
Actually I have so much less faith in Grabow than I did in Howry
Howry at least was very good when he first came over here. And he wasn’t BAD like Grabow is, he just gave up way too many homeruns and really had no movement on his fastball.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't know man,
every time Howry entered a game that season with or without a lead, I expected him to blow the lead or give up a HR to make the game closer than it should be, Grabow gives me the same vibe each time out.
Grabow was decent for the Cubs last season, but did not give us two solid season like Howry did in 2006 and 2007.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
one?
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
by Nunyabidness on May 8, 2010 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions
One?
Did you, perchance, see Heilman, Miles, Cotts, and Gregg last year?
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 12:51 PM CDT up reply actions
Unfortunately...have to say, true. dat.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions
you left someone out. Someone who shall not be named
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
Lou: Kid, a game like that will put some hair on your chest. Heh, hah, heh, cough.
Agent Castro (to self): Uh…um…man, Bobby warned me about the crazy old guy.
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
I think you're missing a few coughs and a hack.
Otherwise, well done.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Guess Hack caption.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 12:51 PM CDT up reply actions
Whoa...is this a rare Hack Wilson ref?
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions
This Castro call up is a blessing
For some reason this year’s team has been the hardest for me to watch and get into in a long, long time. The last game I was excited about was opening day. This guy is a breath of fresh air. I’m very excited to watch this team again.
The thing that impressed me most about him, was not the hits, just his overall demeanor. He didn’t seem phased at all by his surroundings and that was great to see from someone that is 20 years old, and it bodes real well for his future.
What did everyone think about where Lou put him in the batting order? I didn’t like it, I don’t mind him batting down in the order at all, but I’d prefer to see him bat 7th as opposed to 8th. Geo has shown that he’s patient, I’d like to see him and Castro switch to give Castro a little protection and so he won’t have to worry about the opposing pitcher working around him.
If you're reading this signature, there's a good chance you don't like Vinny Del Negro.
For now, 8th is probably best.
I could see him moved up to 7th if he keeps hitting like this.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
sucks for soto
seems like he will be buried in the 8th spot for eternity
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
by jesus christos on May 8, 2010 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions
Yea, I guess I don't have a big problem with it
I always thought that the whole “You don’t get good pitches to hit batting in front of the pitcher” thing was a little overblown anyway
If you're reading this signature, there's a good chance you don't like Vinny Del Negro.
by Juiceboxjerry on May 8, 2010 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions
Um...not with our current starting pitching.
With Z in the pen, our hitters are not very fearsome and are a sure out most times. At least I’d have to say they are the worst hitters and will completely alter the pitching the 8th spot sees. To illustrate this, think of what Pujols was seeing at the point before Holliday got signed…it’s the same principle.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions
Sounds valid.
You sure don’t want to put a rookie near cleanup…without even worrying about the type of hitter he is.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions
No, definitely not that high up in the order
I just thought that the 7th spot would be ideal
If you're reading this signature, there's a good chance you don't like Vinny Del Negro.
by Juiceboxjerry on May 8, 2010 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions
On the other hand...
Batting 8th would give Castro a prime RBI spot with Soriano and Geo right in front of him. I don’t think it really matters, we just might have an amazingly strong 6-7-8 section of the lineup. If rami and lee get back up to career norms, holy cow is that lineup scary.
Theriot
Fukudome
Lee
Byrd
Ramirez
Soriano
Geo
Starlin
Pitcher
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions
Yup, that's why the '08 team was so strong
We were getting great production form guys like Geo and Dero in those spots. Time to make a run!
If you're reading this signature, there's a good chance you don't like Vinny Del Negro.
by Juiceboxjerry on May 8, 2010 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions
I STILL miss dero
But yes, i emphatically agree with you that it’s time for a run.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions
Facts.
The batting order position where DeRosa hit most often in 2008 was sixth (about as many PA batting sixth as all the other spots combined).
The batting order position where Soto hit most often in 2008 was also sixth. Second-most was seventh.
The two players combined for 89 PA batting 8th.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
D'oh! Facts! My god, man, why do that to us!
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions
I think Al might be a little confused - no offense
We weren’t talking about the 8th spot exclusively. I was talking about the 6-7-8 spots.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions
Well, I wasn't really looking deep into the argument or making fun of you by that.
Just poking fun at using facts in general. I prefer avoiding them for the most part.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions
My bad, then.
Thought you were talking about the 7-8 spots, not the 6 spot.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
No worries but you gotta admit its nice
having Soriano, Geo and Castro as your everyday starting 6-7-8 players
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions
And they have complete enlightenment coming to them just before death.
Which is nice.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions
They were still part of the lower half of the lineup
Which made for no automatic outs whatsoever. They also had Jim Edmonds (.258ba 19hr 49rbi) and Reed Johnson (.303ba 6hr 50rbi) batting in those spots which was quite nice.
If this team gets their sh*t together they have the potential to be better than that from the 6-7-8 spots on paper.
But that’s why they play the game.
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions
castro is so awesome he has his own chuck norris esque facts
go to twitter.com and search #starlincastrofacts
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
Way to go kid.
I didn’t think you were ready, but you sure proved me wrong last night. Keep it going.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark
How's this for the Blackhawks celebration?
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 1:51 PM CDT reply actions
+1,000,000
That game last night was incredible. There’s only 1 thing left to do — take the series.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark
Yeah! Glad you put that up!
The Hawks deserve some love, taking command of the series, don’t care that it’s in this post. They deserve a fan shot for sure. (Regrettably I’m far too lazy for that).
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions
Did you guys notice the second link in there?
If not, click the “W” image.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions
No I didn't. Very smooth, Vermont.
Nish bonus.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions
All of my celebratory banners that I post
Link to the team’s celebration song. I have banners for the Cubs, Packers, and, now, Blackhawks.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions
I'll keep that in mind, Vermont. Very cool.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions
A friend of mine who's a big Red Wings fan
posted a smug, gloating bit of nonsense on his page after they beat the Sharks 7-1 how you can’t stop them once they get rolling and how it may have been a redefining moment in hockey.
I didn’t even bother to comment since I didn’t want to piss him off, but if any team is rolling right now, it’s the one with the Indian on their sweaters. GO HAWKS!!!
"One of the things I like about baseball is that between innings you can go to the restroom.'' ~Manny Acta.
I have nowhere close to the same knowledge about Hockey as I do about Baseball
so forgive my ignorance in this question….is it shaping up to be a hawks-redwings series?
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Hawks-Sharks
Sharks hold a 3-1 lead over the Wings
"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
That just makes me giddy.
I may not be a hockey expert, but I hate the scum. Would love to not play them and their experience in the playoffs as well.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions
no
thank the lord
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
by jesus christos on May 8, 2010 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions
note to karma gods: im NOT saying the hawks will take the series
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
by jesus christos on May 8, 2010 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions
so wait, if the wings are down 3-1
why the hell is ur friend gloating?
by cubsonWGN4ever on May 8, 2010 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions
They avoided getting swept
“They’re really on a roll now!”
"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'm a Wings far but even I ain't that stupid
Sharks will win the series.
Sittin' on the ledge and sippin' Kool-Aid...
Because some fans are just stupid
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on May 8, 2010 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions
What else can a Dead Wings fan say?
They are down 3-1 so they have to grasp for the only straw they have left, that the Sharks will choke. We will be at the Shark Tank tonight, and I suspect we will see a lot of handshaking after tonight’s game.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on May 8, 2010 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions
BREAKING NEWS: QUICK, EVERYBODY, TURN YOUR TV TO YOUR LOCAL FOX STATION!!!!!
Please forgive the bold allcaps, but this is so rare an occurrence, I have to shout it from the mountaintops.
CALL YOUR SONS! CALL YOUR DAUGHTERS! CALL YOUR FRIENDS! CALL YOUR NEIGHBORS!
THE FOX MLB GAME OF THE WEEK IS YANKEES VS. RED SOX!!!!
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
MY HEAD JUST EXPLODED!
"I don't want a massage, I want a facial!"
- Stacy King
"Nothing can happen till you swing the bat."
-Haruko Haruhara
by windycitywarrior on May 8, 2010 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions
YANKEESREDSOXWTFBBQ
"I don't want a massage, I want a facial!"
- Stacy King
"Nothing can happen till you swing the bat."
-Haruko Haruhara
by windycitywarrior on May 8, 2010 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions
...
"I don't want a massage, I want a facial!"
- Stacy King
"Nothing can happen till you swing the bat."
-Haruko Haruhara
by windycitywarrior on May 8, 2010 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions
oh my
I love Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane in totally manly ways. Kinda.
"I’m happy. Whoo!"~ Starlin Castro on being called up to the Bigs.
by jesus christos on May 8, 2010 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions
btw, did you like the way I slipped the Hawk Harrelson "call" in there?
Fox, McCarver, Buck, Harrelson… it’s like the perfect storm of badness. The only thing that could possibly improve on that conglomeration of overexposed media crappiness would be if Butt Selig shows up in the booth for a little in-game stroke session on how great MLB has been under his watch.
oh, and needless to say, between TWIB and the Fox pre-game show – not a word about Castro and his MLB record-setting debut. TWIB, I can forgive because I’m guessing they probably tape that a few days ahead of time. But nothing on the pre-game show?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Fox and ESPN are taking their cue from Little Joe
“If I didn’t see it, it never happened.”
Sittin' on the ledge and sippin' Kool-Aid...
Got that right. ESPN did the same exact thing, briefly mentioning Castro
then switching to in-depth Strasburg analysis, pitching in Syracuse. A$$clowns.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions
IN A RELATED STORY
THE FAMILIES SELECTED ON “EXTREME MAKEOVER HOME EDITION” WILL BE SENT TO DISNEY WORLD FOR VACATION
Sittin' on the ledge and sippin' Kool-Aid...
So when did ESPN by Fox out?
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
FOX secretly set up ESPN to begin with.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
"To [Vermont Cubs Fan], good luck, stay strong!"
-Captain Richard Phillips-
by Vermont Cubs Fan on May 8, 2010 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions
Article in Yahoo! sports sez they are taking Castro memoriblia for Cooperstown from his MLB record debut.
“An authenticator from Major League Baseball gathered his blue game jersey, his cap and the lineup card, designating them as little pieces of the game’s history”.
Cool stuff.
"Everything has an end, except a sausage, which has two."
by Sandberg's evil twin on May 8, 2010 2:42 PM CDT reply actions
bye Lou
Lou has to go now, Brenly can turn this team around I just know he can,lou sets in the dugout looking like he is napping, not interested in whats going on in the field, which right now is not much…..Lets do it Mr. Ricketts,,,any body but LOU he is toast and so is this team if there are no change coming LET’S ROLL
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