Joe Torre: Stubborn To His Core
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:04 PM PDT
in Dodgers Game Recaps
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Oscar Salazar delivered an RBI single up the middle in the bottom of the ninth to give the Padres a 3-2 victory and a series win over the Dodgers, pushing them seven games back in the National League West. The hit came off of George Sherrill, who was brought into a tie game in the ninth rather than Jonathan Broxton.
This isn't even about George Sherrill. Yes, to say he has struggled this season is a massive understatement. He didn't even pitch that badly in the ninth inning. He was just put in a position he shouldn't have been, because Joe Torre manages to the save rule rather than trying to win.
In a tie game on the road, in the bottom of any inning after the ninth, the only way the road team can keep playing is by keeping the other team scoreless. The Dodgers best chance to do that in the ninth inning was Broxton, yet he waited in the bullpen for the call that never came. I'm sure Torre will say something in the post game about wanting to save Broxton in case the Dodgers got a lead, and that if he brought him in during a tie game, he wouldn't want to have to pitch him two innings if necessary. But it's ridiculous.
You don't lose with your best option on the sideline. It's not as if Torre hasn't seen the flip side of this misuse. How many walk-offs have the Dodgers had in the past few seasons? They use Broxton in tie games in the ninth inning quite often, while the other teams' closers wait for their lead that never comes. Almost every manager seems to manage this way, but that doesn't make it right. The bullpen is awesome when it's Status Kuo, not status quo.
Then again, with the Dodger offense on summer vacation, I'm not sure if it matters anymore.
A Rare Southpaw Feat
Adrian Gonzalez did something no other left-handed batter has done this season. He got a base hit off Dodgers reliever extraordinaire Hong-Chih Kuo. Before the eighth inning single to center field by Gonzalez, lefties were 0-for-36 against Kuo with 18 strikeouts (to go along with three walks and a sacrifice fly). The last left-handed batter to record a hit off Kuo before today was Tony Gwynn, Jr., who singled last September 29, also at Petco Park.
The Dodgers begin a three-game series in San Francisco tomorrow night. However, with Tim Lincecum matching up with Carlos Monasterios in game one, I would kill for an opportunity for Broxton not be used in the ninth inning of a tie game again.
WP - Heath Bell (5-0): 1 IP, 1 strikeout
LP - George Sherrill (1-2): 1/3 IP, 2 hits, 1 run
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Make or break time for the N.L West?
Pitching matchups:
30th: Monk vs. Lincecum
31st: Bills vs. Zito
1st: Kershaw vs. Cain
2nd: Kuroda vs. Richard
3rd: Padilla vs. Latos
4th: Monk vs. LeBlanc
5th: Bills vs. Correia
Of course a trade could push some things back.
I expect he'll manage the exact same way that Joe does
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
I still can’t imagine a situation short of a signed contract somewhere that will lead to Ned hiring Mattingly. Surely he wants his own guy, not someone who’s more loyal to the guy golfing in Palm Springs.
by Little Blue Bicycle on Jul 29, 2010 7:09 PM PDT up reply actions
I think Ned can succeed in the hiring, actually.
It’s the one time where looking at the W-L record is a good idea.
Wallach’s an easy choice—cheap, successful, already works for him.
by Little Blue Bicycle on Jul 29, 2010 7:22 PM PDT up reply actions
yeah, really not worried about the managerial hire
more the players ned will provide
by lchristmas on Jul 29, 2010 7:29 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
IF we don't win 5 - 6 of the next 7
its pretty much time to start looking toward next year and beyond (unless this team somehow has a Rockiesesque 12 game September win streak in them.
$#*! my manager does
People don't think it be like this, but it do.
Ned with Cubs at 06:42: Okay, so we are looking at Trayvon and Martin for Lilly
Text – Sherrill comes into the 9th
Hey, Bob, never mind
Ned calls Twins: So how about Padilla for Ramos?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Blame #1 for me goes to Scotty Pods for his at bat with runners on 2nd and 3rd with 1 out. Had a 3-1 count, chased ball 4 and hit a weak grounder. He doesnt swing there and Furcal is up with the bases loaded. Who know what happens after that, but i like the chances of scoring.
Blame #2 is Torre. You just cant put sherrill in there against RHH. Broxton has to throw in that situation, and if you refuse to use Broxton there (which is Torre’s MO), you use a righty. Sherill wasnt hit particularly hard, but he just cant face any RHH in any situation.
We cannot hit right now, and the Padres are a really tough matchup. but, the goal of the game is to keep playing. you use Broxton there and give yourself the best chance of extending the game. It really isnt rocket science.
A non-walker does not become a walker
6% walk rate. He is a swinger and hitting ground balls and getting hits with them is his gig.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Oh, i know. It was just a really bad at bat in a huge spot. He still gets put on the shit list for it.
by UCLADodger32 on Jul 29, 2010 7:12 PM PDT up reply actions
not his fault for his defense either
there’s a reason even the royals stick him in left
by Chad Moriyama on Jul 29, 2010 7:11 PM PDT up reply actions
He hasn’t been a regular center fielder since 2004
by Little Blue Bicycle on Jul 29, 2010 7:14 PM PDT up reply actions
I know that—just pointing out that putting him in center was/is/will be an iffy decision.
by Little Blue Bicycle on Jul 29, 2010 7:20 PM PDT up reply actions
He gave Kemp the day off
not sure Paul is any better. Should he have given Kemp the day off? Normally I’d say no, but then when you watch Kemp take three fastballs for strikes in the 9th inning you have to wonder where the fuck his head is.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
I wonder where all the batters’ heads are right now.
by Little Blue Bicycle on Jul 29, 2010 7:25 PM PDT up reply actions
wow people need to get off kemps ass
for that at bat… did you not watch the 3rd pitch. wasnt close
He didn't swing once
He’s a 4 year MLB player, he should know to swing when it’s close.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
it wasnt close
LOL
ok ill explain for the last time…
The pitch was 2 feet off the plate. half way to the plate…
then when it got to the plate, beause of the exception movement… it was a foot off the plate….
then the catcher moved his hand to the corner of the plate and the ump fell for it and called it a strike…
Matt thought that pitch was way outside…. there is no way to blame him when the pitcher has 9 Ks in 4.1 innings.. hes obviously doing something right
Show me proof that it was "2" feet off the plate
I’m trying to check on brooksbaseball.net, but the site is down.
The point is that even if it was a bad call, he had 2 pitches before that he just looked at. It was a bad at bat no matter how you slice it.
Kemp is my 2nd favorite Dodger, but he’s sucking ass right now, there’s no way around that.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
lol
show you prroof?
the guys fastball had exception movement… belisario like movement
RHB vs RHP : he throws it way away but hits the outside corner…
go loook at the video… matt probably gave up on that pitch out of the guys hand it was so outside… the guy had sick stuff… you guys need to get off his ass for this one bad at bat..
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:12 PM PDT up reply actions
and i am not one that defends the players usually
i say it how it is…
if someone sucks or isnt good enough or does something, i will say it…
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:12 PM PDT up reply actions
I told you 2 posts above that I tried, the site was effing down.
All 3 pitches RIGHT in the middle of the strike zone.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
its called Joe Mauer
also I’ve watched Ramos all year here in rochester, he’s batting .220. no sure thing.
by ManBearPig21 on Jul 29, 2010 7:11 PM PDT up reply actions
Agreed here.
I know that Defensively he is ready but has no chance of passing Mauer. I just thought he could be moved for more. that is all
You seem to have a very high opinion
of a AAA catcher who can’t hit.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
I think he will be a good catcher
yes.
I don’t like Capps as much as most. He is having a good year, no doubt.
I maybe a little high on him. I tend to like Catchers more than other players.
who's "most"?
I thought all the kewl kids knew capps was overrated ;)
by lchristmas on Jul 29, 2010 7:35 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
If you watch shows dedicated to the trade deadline
on MLB Net or ESPN, the analysts talk about Capps like he is Jeff Reardon.
He has been solid for a little while now, but was a gas can a few years ago.
reardon's been a little iffy for the last 10 yrs or so iirc
so maybe a good comp after all
by lchristmas on Jul 29, 2010 9:32 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
great great move for the nationals
they are getting better and better and now harper can be placed in RF permantly
Not really a victory to drive away a level-headed commenter...
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
why does everybody have to leave
if they get shit for a comment/opinion?
by Chad Moriyama on Jul 29, 2010 7:12 PM PDT up reply actions 3 recs
Nobody should leave permanently
but sometimes we all need a time out. :-) I can understand being frustrated either way. But after today’s game I can understand being frustrated regardless. Sometimes being here can be a tonic for the Dodger blues, and sometimes it’s not.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
I just stopped commenting in the game threads because it can drive you insane. :o
by Chad Moriyama on Jul 29, 2010 7:20 PM PDT up reply actions
You miss the insanity but you miss all the fun that goes with it.
It is the crazy house.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
PEOPLE DISAGREE AND THINK I'M DUMB
OMG LET ME LEAVE
Fuck that. I don’t give a shit. :o
by Chad Moriyama on Jul 29, 2010 7:13 PM PDT up reply actions
As soon as we lose a close low scoring game
Everyone kills JT and the pitcher of record.
He comes in and gets on everyone for not bitching about not scoring enough runs.
well you're both right then
offense fucking sucks right meow
torre is still an idiot though
by Chad Moriyama on Jul 29, 2010 7:15 PM PDT up reply actions
People take me so seriously here
Anyway, I’m actually leaving as in leaving the country for a weeks next week. That is what I meant.
I agree with him 100%. He is right.
But 45 seconds after the game ends, people want to rip on Sherrill and Torre. No one wants to hear about the shit that costs us the game when we had bats in our hands.
You can’t prevent the offense sucking.
You can prevent using George Sherrill when the outcome of the game can be effected.
by regfairfield on Jul 29, 2010 7:20 PM PDT up reply actions
Everyone's right!
Now let’s go play soccer and kick the crap out of a ball.
Oh wait, that’s just me.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
right, but the runs things has already happened. We didnt score and you cant change that. You can change putting your worst pitcher in the most important situation in the game. Why Craig continues to argue against that point is beyond me.
by UCLADodger32 on Jul 29, 2010 7:17 PM PDT up reply actions
I just hate ganging up on one player
yes, in baseball or even in most sports, you tend to focus on a key situation that occurs late in the game but really it is what happens in the 4th or 5th inning that is just as important.
Probably enough times in a season, George Sherrill or someone else gets out ot the 9th inning without giving up a run or else managers would use closers all the time in the spot.
But also, when you have two more games back to back where you don’t know what you get from your starter, that also impacts how you manage.
by bhsportsguy on Jul 29, 2010 7:22 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
i agree with you BH
the team as a whole right now is playing very underwhelmingly
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 7:25 PM PDT up reply actions
I agree with this
although I knew when Sherrill came in the game was over.
Of course, and I dont even blame Sherrill. He is what he is, and he tries his best. He just cant get right handed hitters out. Torre needs to manage to win every game, and putting sherrill in that spot isnt doing that. you just need to get to the next inning and then go from there. This team probably isnt going anywhere this year because now the offense is dreadful, but it still doesnt help to make poor managerial decisions.
by UCLADodger32 on Jul 29, 2010 7:28 PM PDT up reply actions
Blame can be spread teamwide
Offense not hitting. Backend of bullpen not good. Padilla’s short outing. Sherrill should be a LOOGY only. I would’ve used Broxton in that inning because I agree, you go for it that inning, try to stay in it and then if it goes to extras you just pray the lesser pitchers don’t fail. But when you look at the big picture of choices in the pen it is not great right now and they are going to need relievers tomorrow, too.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Padillas short outing
…thanks to Torre pulling yet another pitcher too early during a totally acceptable performance and turning things over to a shaky bullpen.
Yeah, we needed a run there, but its the 5th, and 2 outs. let Padilla take a hack and get 2 more innings out of the guy.
clearly he trusts the bullpen more than the offense
by ManBearPig21 on Jul 29, 2010 7:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Padilla wasn't that bad
we simply needed a run. Hard to blame Padilla, luckily we got that run to tie the game.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Padilla has thrown 90 pitches thru 4ip…I dont mind taking him out there. I think Torre managed the pen fine until the 9th.
he could have left mcdonald out for one more inning tho
and he could have put jansen for another inning.. but please no more sherril
I agree with both Joey and you on this
Padilla kind of had to come out there, or at least it was understandable betw his pitch count and that they needed a PH next inning. McDonald could’ve gone another inning though.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Joes never been perfect, but this season has been full of questionable decisions.
I’m frustrated with this crap.
Clearly, Heath Bell pitched a non save situation in the exact same game, and look how that turned out for SD.
To be fair
there was no save situation possible at that point for him. Different situation, and one that Torre would have used Broxton in.
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:13 PM PDT up reply actions
yeah I know its different when you’re the home team but it doesn’t make it logical
by ManBearPig21 on Jul 29, 2010 7:15 PM PDT up reply actions
The game was a very important game. The difference between 5 and 7 games.
This is why Broxton needs to be in there.
Torre doesn’t do it much to begin with but it did have to happen tonight. I don’t always think Broxton should be brought in on the road tied. Basically when you need a strikeout or the game will end on a single. Situations like that.
by Alex41592 on Jul 29, 2010 7:18 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Ken Levine opens Dodger Talk by ripping Torre
People don't think it be like this, but it do.
For what specifically?
The 9th inning decision? Putting Pods in CF? Having Pods lead off?
Pods is gonna leadoff for the foreseeable future.
If he cant maintain his .350 OBP, I’m fine with it.
If he becomes Juan Pierre…its gonna be brutal.
Scott Podsednik is fast, so he will lead off.
by regfairfield on Jul 29, 2010 7:18 PM PDT up reply actions
If he's leading off
He better be running his ass off too. I would love nothing more than to finally see someone find a chink in Buster Goddamn Posey’s armor this weekend.
I know what Joe is doing.
It’s not Joe that’s the stubborn one, it’s Ned! Joe is just trying to force Ned’s hand by playing Anderson and Sherrill as often as he can in the hopes that they continue to suck so badly that Ned has to get rid of them. What a genius, Joe!
Didn't Anderson get a pinch hit that drove out
their best pitcher and gave the Dodgers a chance to take the lead.
Give the man that for at least today.
Hairston butchered that ball, but yeah, okay :o
by Chad Moriyama on Jul 29, 2010 7:22 PM PDT up reply actions
Was still a hit though, Hairston magically turned it into a double ;-)
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
I know we are only a few games back of the wild card
but when I see the lineup I don’t see a competitive playoff team. Even the Giants these days are putting eight better players then us out on the diamond. We’ll know for sure by Sunday but I think we are close to calling it, to bad Ned can’t wait until Sunday Night to decide to be a buyer or seller.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
The McCourts are too PR conscious to ever be seen as sellers, even if its warranted.
This team could get swept by the Giants and they’d still not sell IMO.
I'm sorry, who would they sell
Maybe Padilla or Kuroda (but even then they would probably kill their bullpen since they have no starters that can absorb those innings).
Other than that, Blake (either of them) is not going anywhere. Manny is hurt. I suppose Furcal but you don’t have anyone in the minors who can adequately fill his spot.
I think they are stuck. Unless they want to do something really big like trade Kemp or Ethier for some prospects, I don’t think they can do it.
If they were real sellers
then any FA like Padilla or Kuroda, along with Blake and Martin. Maybe even Loney. Maybe even Kemp/Andre. The only one I would not sell is Kershaw and Jansen since we will need him to replace Broxton. I’d even try to sell very high on Kuo. This team has tons of talent they could sell.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
He still has on base skills and may be seen as young enough to warrant a team thinking he could bounce back.
I think the reason you deal him is more because you dont want to pay him 5-6mils next season.
Non-tender wont get draft picks.
So you either trade him now, or he leaves and you get nothing.
Padilla, Kuroda, Belliard, Weaver, Blake, Carroll, Manny...
Plenty of vets on this team that another team may give up something for.
If you decide to sell, everything is in play.
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:32 PM PDT up reply actions
I don't think I've ever been this discouraged
by our core future, leaving me wondering about our future.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
When some journeyman named Torres is better then
our multi-tooled outfield, I just shake my head.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Ethier's thumb just might
have never really healed.
I was thinking this today, is Matt Kemp suffering SCY’s syndrome.
Its a real shame
we couldn’t surround this core with some solid vets (aside from Manny & Furcal when healthy) over the last couple years. Particularly in the pitching dept. I already feel like its time to look ahead to 2012. Maybe thats a little bit of a downer attitude though.
The problem is
No one is willing to take on money. And apparently no is dealing anyone of particular note when it comes to prospects.
Ned is not done yet. Let us wait
until after the deadline before we make the claim no one is trading prospects of note.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
I get that
and again, I don’t think they will be sellers. But if they decide to become sellers, everything is a sunk cost.
You trade Blake and pay 75% of the salary; do the same with a number of players. It’s a PR nightmare but they know that boat when they jump into it.
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:37 PM PDT up reply actions
If we're hypothetically talking about selling, who would you hope the untouchables on the big club are
CK, Bills, Dre, Matty, Brox, Kuo, Jansen, Loney?, Raffy?
William Doolittle at your service, a.k.a. will do.
Guys I wouldnt trade:
Broxton, Kuo, Kershaw, Billingsley, Kemp, Ethier, Jansen, Furcal.
Everyone else would be available.
I dont want to deal everyone this year and then win like 65 games in 2011.
brox
would you consider something like the top minor league catching prospect and a live arm for broxton? i certainly would.
Who is that other Yankees catching prospect not named Montero? He’s pretty highly rated and they could use an upgrade to whoever sets up Mo.
romime
but hes not doing that well in AA… although hes only 21
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:46 PM PDT up reply actions
In retrospect
Wasn’t it unfortunate that Billingsley really stepped up and the Dodgers proceeded to take 3/4 from the Mets? If the Dodgers had totally tanked prior to the deadline, Colletti may have been persuaded to become sellers and get better down the road.
figured
but I was prepared anyway. As cliche as it is to say this, The Dodgers just need to pull their collective heads from their asses and play like the West Division Champs they are.
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 7:26 PM PDT up reply actions
I'd like to put up a brave face and say yes
but no, I don’t think they have the team to reach the playoffs, and if Kemp/Andre don’t get better, our future is not looking much better. These guys absolutely have to be great players, and right now Andre looks like Hawpe, and Kemp like Cameron. Good players, but not good enough to lead a team and we have no money to get anyone better.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
The Dodgers just lost two games to the Padres
Where the biggest contribution that Adrian Gonzalez made was bloop single that could have been an inning ending double play.
The Hairstons were more of a pain to the Dodgers in this series.
Your point?
That a crappy lineup can still win? Sure we did it by throwing four shutouts, and when we stopped throwing shutouts we lost. Have we won a game where did didn’t throw a shutout in the last week?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Agreed, except that Matt Kemp is no Mike Cameron. Mike Cameron is awesome.
by regfairfield on Jul 29, 2010 7:38 PM PDT up reply actions
I think they are good enough to reach the playoffs, but there are a growing number of obstacles getting in the way of that goal.
Namely the under performance of the offense, and that they are sliding further and further back
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:34 PM PDT up reply actions
let’s do the math
How many wins will be necessary to win the Division?
How many wins will be necessary to win the Wild Card?
So, like kensai, no, but hope they do, rooting for the team one game at a time.
Today was very frustrating at the end of the game.
by 68elcamino427 on Jul 29, 2010 7:46 PM PDT up reply actions
A wise man said he thinks it will take about 90 wins to win this thing
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:48 PM PDT up reply actions
Fuck the Phillies
Wilson Valdez just hit a walkoff single that scores Cody Ransom.
Why Baseball? Why?
luckily I was prepared for that right as I saw it was going to extras
William Doolittle at your service, a.k.a. will do.
What the hell is wrong with the Dodgers at the plate?
Anyone notice that the Dodgers have won 5 of the last 8 games and all 5 of those were shutouts? If LA can ONLY win games from here on out where they allow ZERO runs to score then we’re screwed…
Best hitter on the DL and is old. Kemp regressed. Ethier either peaked in May or the finger ruined his season (probably both). Blake DeWitt, Xavier Paul, and Russell Martin are not game changers. Blake has lost something. Loney is still Loney. Scotty Pods sure isn’t going to change anything.
Furcal has played an elite shortstop. But, finally cooled off fast.
Offense isn’t good right now period.
I wonder if there's ever been a Spiderman video game with Carnage in it
I would LOVE to have the next movie involving Carnage, and thusly the next big Spiderman game. Oh it’s nice to want things.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
no plate discipline
he is Carnage after all
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 7:37 PM PDT up reply actions
there was one for super NES with him
and yes, Carnage would be cool. cool your nerdgasm
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 7:36 PM PDT up reply actions
yes, i would
but then I drink something other than Dr. Pepper…clone
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 7:40 PM PDT up reply actions
Do I pay that price?
I pay it gladly.
Equilibrium, FTW
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 7:43 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
You're the evil one :P
Dr Pepper is what fuels my goodness. Speaking of which, I’ll go grab one right now :)
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
Dr. Pepper
is the drink of devils and witches. It’s commercials are made of lies and the label is printing of also lies
27 flavors, all of them horrible.
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 7:49 PM PDT up reply actions
Tommy Blackjack is about to get split.
Dr. Pepper is sacred nectar of the Gods.
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:57 PM PDT up reply actions
i'll take the both of you on
I’ll kick your butts…….at nintendo.
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 7:59 PM PDT up reply actions
Nintendo is not my forte
That is PS3. Cage match in CODMW2?
Sniper battle!!!
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
i don't know
you seem the camper type to me.
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 8:06 PM PDT up reply actions
Ohhhhh, them's fightin words!
When I use my trusty silenced ACR and sneak up on you I don’t think you’ll be whistling the same tune ;)
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
Hey you, let's fight
them’s fightin words (punch)
/simpsons
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 8:16 PM PDT up reply actions
must....not........
correct……..quote…….must……..retain…….dignity………..
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 8:34 PM PDT up reply actions
It's ok, it wouldn't be the first time, if I don't/can't look them up, I'll fail half the time
lol
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
yeah,
but no one really likes “that guy”. I do it too my brothers all the time though. They have to love me. mwa ha ha.
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 8:45 PM PDT up reply actions
The infamous ex was that person
It doesn’t have to be exact to be funny!!! Glad to see you’re not a jerkoff and do that to non-family, lol.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
i try not to anyway.
i’m pretty good about it.
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 9:06 PM PDT up reply actions
there is a game with carnage in it
I forgot what it’s called though..might have been on super nintendo
The lineup we ran out there today
had a total of 36 HR’s this year…..I think.
The Padres lineup had 56 going into today.
That is shittaaaaa right there.
Evereth Cabrera has the same number of HR’s as XP, DeSingle, Carroll, and Ausmus.
I'm gonna chose to blame the interleague schedule..
William Doolittle at your service, a.k.a. will do.
I just keep hoping that when the bats warm up a little bit (even a tiny bit would help)
That the starting pitching still is as strong as it is now. The Dodgers were 6 games out and in last place this day in 2006 so there’s still reason to hope LA can return to their winning ways against the NLW and make up some ground before it’s too late.
Of course that team got swept out of the playoffs by the Mets…
well he got injured
injuries effected his production… you cant be disappointed in him for trying to play with a broken pinkie
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:06 PM PDT up reply actions
I'm not disappointed with him for his efforts.
And it is very unfortunate about him injuring his pinky. But when is he either going to (a) be completely healed and start mashing again or (b) admit that his pinky still bothers him and take some time off?
i think hes just in one of his slumps
he wil get out of it soon and start mashing
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:47 PM PDT up reply actions
I don't expect Manny to be 2008 Manny
But I’d like it if Manny’s legs didn’t fall off as soon as he returns from a previous leg injury
My disappointments align with my expectations.
I figured Blake would fall off. He’s old.
Same with Manny.
Kemp though —→ he had potential to be a difference making great CF’er. And he just hasnt done it. He’s still a pretty good player, I wouldnt trade him. But he’s not a superstar, and the Dodgers are really hurting for 1.
I'm just too young to guess this stuff
I was excited to see so many players return this year…too naive to realize that folks like Blake and Manny are just a year old and a little more broken down
i think Loney is who he is. i dont like the fact he wont take a walk this year, but hes had a few years of being exactly who he is. Kemp is the real disappointment. I dont think his defense has been as bad as the numbers say (although most of it is from the first month where he was awful. He has been fine since then), but he just hasnt done much at the plate since April. Really disappointing, to say the least.
by UCLADodger32 on Jul 29, 2010 7:42 PM PDT up reply actions
One thing that was bound to happen
Matt Kemp’s BABIP has dropped from 2008 at .361, to 2009 at .345 to this year at .315. Kemp’s walk rate is about the same and his HR rate is about the same. His LD% is at 20% which it was at last year.
if this is loney, no power no walk first basemen
we need a new first basemen once he gets expensive
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:07 PM PDT up reply actions
How has Loney stagnated
he’s the only guy who has been better this year then last year? And since you weren’t high on him in the first place how can he be a disappointment to you?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Not to jump the gun here
But how much blame does Mattingly get for the offense? Kemp and Ethier are supposed to be progressing and all they’ve done is taken a step back.
He's at .293/.344/.427...and he's in his prime..
I am biased because I never liked him, but alot of people a couple years ago were saying to wait it out…that he’d become a 25HR player.
To me..James Loney is a 1st basemen on a bad team caliber of player. A guy like Sean Casey.
In other words, he’s good enough for the major leagues. Not good enough for the Dodgers.
Loney already has the same number of doubles
or close to hit at this point of the season that he had all last year.
Loney is performing
Kemp and Ethier need to be better for the team to be better as you say.
Kemp and Ethier really miss the other big bat in the line up.
In a way have they been exposed in that respect?
by 68elcamino427 on Jul 29, 2010 7:51 PM PDT up reply actions
The problem is also what we are trotting out there in the 5/6 – 8 spots. ’08 and ’09 our lineup was practically 8 deep at guys who could produce.
loney performing has a .427 slugging
when matt and ethier are performing they have .500 plus slugging… LOL
loneys expectations are low while matt and ethier, we expect greatness..
so is loney really performing? especially for a First basemen? Not really considering first basemen are the ones that should be having .500 slugging
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:02 PM PDT up reply actions
I don't know either
Except for a little slowdown in May Loney has been consistently a .300 hitter all year and he’s one of the best if not the best this season with RISP for the Dodgers
with no power though
hes a first basemen.. wheres the power at…
first base is where all playoffs teams get their power from… we aint winning a WS with loney as our firstbasemen… we need production from the first basemen
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:03 PM PDT up reply actions
we're getting production for him
just not the kind you want.
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 11:04 PM PDT up reply actions
the only reason he is better this year then last is cause he was pretty bad last year
his ops and sluggin was Bad
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:05 PM PDT up reply actions
My frustration makes me think it's over
but look at the numbers recently. This team cannot be this bad:
Last 7 days (before today’s game)
Ethier .111/.111/.167
Paul .083/.143/.083
Blake .182/.182/.182
Carroll .214/.250/.214
Loney .130/.130/.261
Furcal .053/.217/.053
Yet they won 5 out of those 7. Just need to break out of these slumps and I think they can make a run.
In a year that has been so improbable, the impossible has happened
cause the starting pitching has been throwing shutouts
sooner or later they will give up runs.
Adam Morrison has more rings than Lebron, Bosh, and Wade combined?
The Sherrill thing I can understand.
Scotty Pods starting in center was just asinine. He made only one start in CF this year before today.
Looks like around Jul 31st is the end of the 15 days
He’ll make it back right after the Giants and Padres series…you know…possibly the most important 2 series for the Dodgers this season.
They already said it was 3 weeks at least. We won’t see him until mid August at least IMO
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:58 PM PDT up reply actions
I am trying to figure out in the last 50 years
How James Loney does not compare with other Dodger first basemen who have played at least 500 games for them.
I tweaked it a bit. All Dodger 1B, through age 26, minimum 1000 PA.
Loney is 2nd with a 111 OPS+. Ahead of Hodges, Karros, and Candy LaChance!
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 8:02 PM PDT up reply actions
So the final trade was Wilson Ramos and LHP Joe Testa for Matt Capps.
That’s a major win for Washington.
I have no credible knowledge of Ramos
but simply judging from all the rumored deals he was supposed to be headlining, that looks like a shockingly bad trade for Minnesota.
But I could be convinced otherwise.
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 7:57 PM PDT up reply actions
Only if you lose the stats once they are traded
he’s going to close for the Twins. They Twins are trying to win, Lucas May could out hit Ramos with his dick. Probably a good trade for both teams if Capps keeps pitching like he has all year.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
I should probably go see Inception this weekend, because I am dying to see what is going on in that Fan Post!
I read the fanpost and decided for the comedy Schmucks
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
The drinking or the flame?
Because I’d like to see a fire lit under the asses of this underachieving Dodgers offense
This sound crazy
I was just looking at some career numbers (from the start of their career) and does anyone see any comparison between Chad Billingsley and Bob Welch.
On a similar note
Without even looking at any stats, I’ve started to think of Billz as the Tim Belcher of this Dodgers era (Kershaw = Orel) since those were my formative Dodgers fan years.
There is still time for Chan Ho Park to deliver a spinning kick to Bills, too!
Circle of life.
by Eric Stephen on Jul 29, 2010 8:07 PM PDT up reply actions
Headline on Dodgers.com
“Right off bat, Podsednik hits leadoff for LA”
Of course it should read…right off bat…Podsednik forgets how to bat just like the rest of the team….
really?
seems like he took their lead
by Tommy Blackjack on Jul 29, 2010 8:07 PM PDT up reply actions
In Philly
someone had a sign in the Toy Story font/graphics, but it said “Roy Story 2,” with their second trade for a Roy starter this year.
Very clever.
Must be nice...
I didn’t have time, but would have been interesting to read some comments on Astros & Phillies blogs today.
No and Yes
the yes being for 2010, he said he might pitch next year but is having to much fun right now to get into pitching shape for 2010. Pedro seemed like someone who would take care of his money so hopefully unlike many athletes he can choose to play for the fun/competition and not the money.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
Did not watch today's game
but it seemed to ignite the Bitter Betty attitudes out there.
3.5 back of the wild card with 60 games to play. We got this.
by CostaRicaDodger on Jul 29, 2010 8:25 PM PDT reply actions
What a thoroughly depressing outcome to an exciting game that the Dodgers coulda won.
You had better believe I’m drinking gin.
I see Phil has joined me in the Bear Club for Men. C’mon, Phil, I need you to be the voice of optimism! Things surely aren’t as bad as I have made them out to be! The Dodgers aren’t really looking at two years in the wilderness!
The Omar Moreno of this blog
OK, here is category 3
At least the defense hasn’t been bad. Starting pitching is going crazy, why didn’t they just pitch this way from the beginning of the year?
Manny is our only hope.
Torre defended Sherrill.
“I thought he was good,” said Torre. “We were guarding the line on the hit or Casey catches the ball. The winning hit, he swung one-handed. It was a breaking ball down. I think George is getting very close. His last few times out, I’m very comfortable watching what he’s doing.”
That makes one.
To defend Torre. He’s right. Maybe not so much on feeling comfortable because he’s been awful all season.
It’s going to take a lot of phenomenal performances by Sherill to fix that. But, he could be on his way back. Crazier things have happened.
There is still no reason to try your luck with him against righties
Throw the dice against lefties, but not righties.
hong chi kuo
is he having one of the best seasons in the history of MLB for relief pitchers??
in terms of whip and ERA and stuff…
carlos marmol is about to break the mlb record for most K per 9 with like 17
kuo has a .76 Whip and a ERA of .75…
Benoit is doing just as good, if not better than Kuo this year.
I’m checking as far back as i can go (while I still am interested in the topic) and gonna see if there are any way better seasons.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
One that comes to mind is
Brad Lidge’s 2004. Insane strikeout numbers.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
but not better then carlos marmols
carlos k/9 is 2 higher then lidges that season…
kuos hit per 9 is crazy too
by matthewmafa on Jul 29, 2010 10:49 PM PDT up reply actions
I dont see the word fuck on here
I’m sure it had to have been said at least 200 times, lol.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
LOL
The Rangers asked Florida for Josh Johnson this week.
Texas was willing to part with their top three prospects, just to get the conversation rolling for the hard-throwing Florida ace.
Before a conversation could even get started, the Marlins made it clear that Johnson is “unmovable.”
STFU Texas.
Kemp's at bat from 2 nights ago in the 7th inning
3 pitches in the middle of the plate. I believe this was the at bat Mathewmafa was talking about.
Doesn’t look 2 feet off the plate to me.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
Mathew exaggerating?
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Jul 29, 2010 11:19 PM PDT up reply actions
oh my goodness man
first off all it was not in the middle of the plate… as you can see, the call third strike was right on the corner…. but out of the guys hand, it was headed 2 feet off the plate… but the guy has such insane movement it hit the corner of the zone….
all im saying is stop bashing kemp for one at bat
when he had a hit and a hit taken away in 2 at bats before…. and then its not like he did this with the bases loaded… he was the first batter of the inning…
Jesus christ, please stop acting like you’re sucking Kemp off. It was a shittastic at bat, he was terrible in it, get over it.
"Stop exploding you cowards!!!"
you guys in here defend the players like they are your siblings when i say something bad about them
and now i defend them and i am sucking kemp off… wow
by matthewmafa on Jul 30, 2010 10:25 AM PDT up reply actions
i can only imagine what happens if i say that to eric
when hes defending a player i critisize
by matthewmafa on Jul 30, 2010 10:25 AM PDT up reply actions
NPUT
http://www.truebluela.com/2010/7/29/1595976/dodger-dejection-or-dodger-delusion
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
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