Current Outlook Dead Last, Future Outlook Dead Last: Houston Astros Preview
by Phil Gurnee on May 23, 2011 12:00 PM PDT
in Team Previews
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PrintManager: Brad Mills (17-30) (93-116)
Current: One of the few teams in baseball with a record the Dodgers won't look on longingly. The Astros are dead last in the NL central with the expectation of being dead last by end of the season. The offense is not as bad as the Dodgers but they are one of the few teams who have hit fewer home runs. Their 26 home runs puts them dead last. Hate to use fielding metrics at this point but I do need to point out that according to fangraphs they are dead last in fielding by a large margin. Pitching has been a problem in both the rotation and bullpen but they are not dead last.
Outlook: Dead Last
Disabled List: Brandon Lyon , Jeff Keppinger, Jason Bourgeois,
Old Friends: Not a one
Positions:
1st Base: Brett Wallace is one of the few bright spots for the Astros The one time top prospect of the Blue Jays has emerged as a solid offensive 1st baseman in his first full year. His OPS of .850 gives him a 140 OPS+ and puts him around fifth best in the NL, a head of the likes of Pujols and Ryan Howard,
2nd Base: Bill Hall is another player we were lucky enough not to sign this winter. He may not be the worst offensive 2nd baseman in the NL, but he's close to it, throw in his terrible defense and you have the worst regular 2nd baseman in the NL. If Houston is smart as soon as Jeff Keppinger comes off the DL they hand him the job and don't look back.
Shortstop: Angel Sanchez and Clint Barmes handle SS, neither can hit very much so they are just following in a long line of Astro shortstops who could not hit.
Rk Player OPS+ G From To Age PA BA OBP SLG OPS 1 Denis Menke 109 634 1968 1974 27-33 2524 .266 .355 .373 .728 2 Dickie Thon 106 566 1981 1987 23-29 2013 .270 .329 .395 .725 3 Miguel Tejada 101 316 2008 2009 34-35 1339 .298 .327 .435 .762 4 Orlando Miller 93 247 1994 1996 25-27 895 .262 .307 .406 .713 5 Andujar Cedeno 92 395 1990 1996 20-26 1458 .250 .309 .389 .698 6 Julio Lugo 81 366 2000 2003 24-27 1483 .268 .332 .391 .723 7 Ricky Gutierrez 81 469 1995 1999 25-29 1617 .266 .337 .340 .677 8 Rafael Ramirez 80 612 1988 1992 30-34 2086 .257 .290 .335 .625 9 Sonny Jackson 80 299 1963 1967 18-22 1288 .264 .313 .307 .620 10 Craig Reynolds 79 1170 1979 1989 26-36 3721 .252 .286 .345 .631 11 Eddie Kasko 72 201 1964 1965 32-33 727 .244 .300 .290 .589 12 Adam Everett 69 649 2001 2007 24-30 2374 .248 .299 .357 .656 13 Roger Metzger 67 1021 1971 1978 23-30 4100 .229 .291 .291 .582 14 Tim Bogar 60 392 1997 2000 30-33 1149 .219 .297 .327 .624 15 Bob Lillis 56 613 1962 1967 32-37 2043 .232 .267 .272 .539
Provided by Baseball-Reference.com: View Play Index Tool Used
Generated 5/22/2011.
3rd Base: There are some really offensive (as in lousy) 3rd baseman in the NL this year. Chris Johnson is not one of them, but he's not good either. He's in that tier below the very good where it drops right to crappy before heading toward craptastic as in our own Juan Uribe. Johnson had a stellar rookie season but his 3% walk rate has caught up to him. His TSL of .225/270/.394 is not what the doctor ordered for a team in desperate need of offense.
Catcher: Humberto Quintero and JR Towles share this position. Towles can hit a little, Quintero cannot. Hey, remember when Barajas was having a solid offensive season? That 100 OPS+ is headed down down down.
Right Fielder: Hunter Pence is no superstar but ever since 2007 he's been a very solid offensive hitter, and 2011 is no exception. For Houston he's the best they got with his 127 OPS+. That is what a .808 OPS gets you in the offensively challenged world of 2011.
Center Fielder: Michael Bourn gets on base just enough (.340 OB%) to use his superior speed to wreck havoc on the base paths. Stolen 16 bases, been caught only twice. He might steal five bases off of Lilly if he can get on base.
Left Fielder: Carlos Lee (El Caballo) was once a feared offensive hitter, now he's just one of the many players in baseball who have bloated contracts with little production to match. At $19,000,000 in 2011, if he's not the worst deal in baseball it is only because baseball is littered with GMs who did not grasp the significance of aging baseball players in the post PED era.
Bench: Their best bench player is on the DL, Matt Downs is making some hay in limited playing time.
Starting Pitching:
| Game | Pitcher | Triple Stat Line ERA/FIP/xFIP |
| Game One | Bud Norris Versus Clayton Kershaw | 3.93 / 3.38 / 2.85 |
| Game Two | AJ Happ Versus Chad Billingsley | 5.30 / 4.66 / 4.71 |
| Game Three | Aneury Rodriguez Versus Ted Lilly | 5.31 / 4.78 / 4.95 |
Bud Norris is quietly having a very solid season with the sixth best xFIP in the NL. He has a K rate over 10, has reduced his walk below 4, and will give Clayton a battle on Monday.
If we don't bounce around AJ Happ or give Aneury an aneurysm all hope is lost.
Bullpen:
Setup: Jeff Fulchino, Enerio Del Rosario, Wilton Lopez and Jose Valdez do the right hand work for the Astros. Sergio Escalona and Fernando Abad do the left side work.
Closer: With Brandon Lyon on the DL, Mark Melencon is the new closer and so far he's been up to the task. At one time he could strike out hitters but so far this year his K rate has dropped to 6.23 from the high 9's last year. He's basically a fastball (92) curveball pitcher.
Matchup Notes: This is a series the Dodgers have to win. Clayton needs to shut down the Houston offense because it is likely the Dodgers will have trouble scoring against Bud Norris. On Tuesday / Wednesday, we should score enough to win at least one, if not both. Houston comes into this series having stolen 38 bases in 45 attempts, so expect them to run wild on Barajas's 19% caught stealing rate. Then again the Golden Rod may not play this series so Bourn gets to run wild on Navarro instead.
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None of what was said means Dodgers win a series.
by Skunkburner on May 23, 2011 12:06 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
Lets say we finish dead last in the division this year
but by the end of the year we half Sands and Trayvon and Rubby in the bigs and playing well. Would that save Colletis is job?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
word is
he can opt out after 2012, but beyond that I don’t know.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Coletti won’t get fired by McCourt IMO, but a new owner might want his own person in there instead.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 12:13 PM PDT up reply actions
That’s the only thing that will save Coletti’s job. If McCourt goes, he’s gone.
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on May 23, 2011 12:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Unless he’s one of the many GMs to not get fired with new ownership. Likely, but not a given.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 12:15 PM PDT up reply actions
we should get Gordon Ramsey to take a look at our management system
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions
he's too busy
cleaning up the concessions of Angel Stadium
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions
First reason a restaurant fails is cause it’s unclean. Second reason is it has a crap GM.
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:19 PM PDT up reply actions
Undercapitalized is way up there too
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on May 23, 2011 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions
quality of the food may or may not be relevant
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
food quality falls into unclean, as in “wow, you haven’t cleaned out your fridge and now the chicken is slimy and rubbery”
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:21 PM PDT up reply actions
You can buy shitty clean food
and use it while it still fresh and it will still be shitty. Or buy fresh stuff and just cook it poorly
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
well the GM does the hiring and firing of the head chef
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:25 PM PDT up reply actions
AND?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
well if you have a crap head chef you should hire a better one : p
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions
I don’t know what that means, and any minute now Phil should yell at me for pretending I know anything about business
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:21 PM PDT up reply actions
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
moneymoneymoney
MOOOOO-NAYYYYYYY!!!
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions
so the restaurant fails because they didn’t make money? that’s a result not a cause : p
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions
They didn't have the proper funds in the first place
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
But Coletti’s done an unremarkable job. I think new owners are going to want to clean slate this thing and move in a new direction. At least I hope so.
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on May 23, 2011 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions
2 NLCS appearances is not unremarkable
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Worse than Dan Evans at everything except “not having Barry Bonds in your division”
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions
It wasn’t in the winter of 2009, but by the winter of 2011 it will be kind of unremarkable.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions
I think the last 2 years could sink him
but those 2 NLCS appearances are 2 more then most GMs aren’t they?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
There is an awful lot of projection in your comment.
Like I said, I think it is likely that a new owner will bring in his own guy, but it is nowhere near a given. The articles are already written (true or not) that Colletti’s hands were tied by the McCourt mess, yada yada yada.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 12:20 PM PDT up reply actions
How many new owners have not brought in their own guy? I know Texas did not but then again they went to the World Series. I think odds have to be very high that Ned is swept out when new ownership comes to town.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:24 PM PDT up reply actions
Well Texas was bought by the guy who hired the GM in the first place
unique circumstances.
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
I found a bunch when Delias Man asked the same question a few weeks ago
but I don’t remember them all.
Daniels, Sabean, and Beane to name three
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions
John Schuerholz sort of, gave up the GM job a few months after the Braves sale in 2007 to become president. I don’t see a promotion for Ned under new ownership, though.
Let the Bison roam.
by Little Blue Bicycle on May 23, 2011 1:12 PM PDT up reply actions
That’s fair. No GM bats 1.000, I just don’t think Ned makes good decisions more often than bad. Aside from Manny and half a season of Sherril, he hasn’t gotten good value in trades, even though he hasn’t given up much that’s turned out to be anything.
Like I said, to me, he’s been unremarkable. I think we can do better.
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on May 23, 2011 12:25 PM PDT up reply actions
ETHEIR!1111111!!!!
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
That was an oversight on my part, not intentional.
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on May 23, 2011 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions
Towers
got let go.
Hendry didn’t with the Cubs, Jon Daniels didn’t with the Rangers.
Ed Wade is signed through 2012 with the Astros.
I’d say if it is someone like a Dennis Gilbert led group, then I would think they would redo the baseball ops dept.
But I have to believe there would be such a job with figuring out all the financing and probably replacing the Legal and Finance groups that the Baseball Ops people may stay in place for a while until the new owners get comfortable with that side of the team.
by bhsportsguy on May 23, 2011 12:24 PM PDT up reply actions
Astro’s just got sold, does not mean Ed Wade survives this winter just because he has a contract.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:25 PM PDT up reply actions
Yeah
that was randomly put there. And with one year left, they could probably afford to let him go.
The biggest issue re new ownership, how much debt will they be allowed to carry into this deal, if you get a situation like in Houston (and they have a new TV deal in place already), that owner carried in at least $300M in debt. Not that I expect anyone to come in with $800M cash for this deal but somebody is going to have bring in a lot of dough to make me think that the Dodgers will not continually carry a substantial amount of debt.
by bhsportsguy on May 23, 2011 12:45 PM PDT up reply actions
Really, he should ignore these considerations and do the best job he can. He won’t have any control over the situation, so why worry about it?
If he takes the right attitude, his job could be a lot of fun, even with all the problems.
by wonderphenom on May 23, 2011 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions
I don’t think Ned has a chance of surviving an ownership change no matter how the team does.
If the team comes in last place I don’t think he has a chance of surviving even with no ownership change. To come in last place below the Padre’s we may be talking 70 – 75 wins.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:15 PM PDT up reply actions
Roger Metzger sucked, but at least he made it onscreen in Bad News Bears 2
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on May 23, 2011 12:12 PM PDT reply actions
Astros lineup
Bourn CF
Barmes SS
Pence RF
Lee 1B
Michaels LF
Johnson 3B
Hall 2B
Quintero C
Norris P
Per Alyson Footer
She should marry Chase Headley and be Alyson Headley-Footer
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on May 23, 2011 12:16 PM PDT up reply actions
3rd time in a row that Clayton has faced a lineup he should shutout or no hit.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:16 PM PDT up reply actions
sorry if this was done on purpose
but isn’t it JA Happ rather than AJ?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:16 PM PDT reply actions
Yes, it was done on purpose because I didn’t want any one calling him Jack Ass.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions
Adam Dunn 0 – 30 against LHP, are they that much harder in the AL then the NL? That is some major suckitude. He looks at the production of Loney/Andre with awe until he realizes they get to face NL left handers.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Strange it may seem
he could be one of those guys that just can’t handle the DH sole job and that he needs the rhythm of playing in the field.
by bhsportsguy on May 23, 2011 12:25 PM PDT up reply actions
I do wonder this
as well
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions
Yup, might be a big part, there is a reason why guys like Frank Thomas were much better hitters when playing in the field as opposed to being a DH.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:28 PM PDT up reply actions
Would like to see someone look into this and see if it really is a thing or if it’s just guys that end up as DHs don’t age very well any way.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 12:30 PM PDT up reply actions
Think it might be individual based.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:31 PM PDT up reply actions
Molly might call that psychological
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:32 PM PDT up reply actions
It’s hard to tell unless the guy spends a significant amount of time at DH, then goes back to playing the field, which I can’t imagine happens all that often.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 12:35 PM PDT up reply actions
Speaking of DHs
They were saying on ESPN about Ortiz probably not returning to the Red Sox after this year, and that he could possibly go to a NL team as a 1B. I’ve never seen him play 1B, but does anyone think this is likely? I think it’s more likely he gets a DH job from some AL team.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:35 PM PDT up reply actions
heard this
Ortiz will not start at 1B for the Dodgers next year
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions
not what I was implying
I wouldn’t want him anyway.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:37 PM PDT up reply actions
You would not want David Ortiz?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:41 PM PDT up reply actions
I think there will be
better options.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions
been there
done that
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions
Russel Branyan
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
two of those 3
are available :)
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:24 PM PDT up reply actions
If David Ortiz is signed to play 1st base in the NL as a starter (ie not Jason Giambi) I’ll wear a Red Sox hat to Dodger Stadium.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions
That’s like some Sisyphusian curse, he puts back in the field what he picks up at the plate.
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on May 23, 2011 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions
Ned thinks its his contract
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
J.P. Ricciardi thinks it’s because Dunn hates baseball.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 12:33 PM PDT up reply actions
Mike Rizzo says
he’s misunderstood.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:37 PM PDT up reply actions
Bradley, on Freddy Adu: “It’s an opportunity that has been earned. We felt it was a good time to bring him back in and challenge him”
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:39 PM PDT up reply actions
he won’t start, Bradley just wants a good look at him or something
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:40 PM PDT up reply actions
did not realize Adu was playing second tier in Turkey. talk about falling off
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions
Yup. And we all agreed that he sucks.
That’s why I was pretty shocked to see him named to the roster.
by Michael White on May 23, 2011 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions
much Adu
about nothing
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:44 PM PDT up reply actions 2 recs
HITNG?
If I could have rec’d this from my phone an hour ago, I would have.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yup – that is why I was told the Z key was my friend.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
i know, I said he’d fallen off but I never looked up where he was playing
by Josie Becker on May 23, 2011 12:44 PM PDT up reply actions
Was about to ask what the hell happened to Freddy Adu?
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions
Great prospect but too much pressure on him...
He never reached its potential everywhere he played in Europe…
"Oh ville lumière, sens la chaleur de notre coeur, vois-tu notre ferveur quand nous marchons près de toi. Dans cette conquête, chasser l'ennemi, enfin pour que nos couleurs brillent encore..."
"Nous sommes les parisiens (clap clap clap clap) et nous chantons en choeur (clap clap clap clap). Nous sommes les parisiens (clap clap clap clap), fidèles à nos couleurs (clap clap clap clap). Lololo lololo, lololo lololo"
Kiss my Aul[ass], hahaha
pressure not the problem.
He has the physical abilities of a little boy in a man’s game.
Still on Frank's team!
Perversely since I’ve given up the season, seeing Mitchell/Sands/Elbert/Guerra do good work during the lost weekend, gave me as much satisfaction as a win. The Mitchell at bats stands as my favorite at bat of the season.
James Loney might have strung together two 7 and 8 game hitting streaks but I’m still waiting for him to hit the ball hard in the air. Hopefully that is coming up in Houston.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
didn't he have
a line drive double to right center in one of the games in Chicago?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:41 PM PDT up reply actions
might have, did not see all his abats, the ones I saw that resulted in xBH were ground ball doubles eluding bad first baseman down the line.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on May 23, 2011 12:47 PM PDT up reply actions
He hit that one I think
on Saturday but it could have been yesterday
by bhsportsguy on May 23, 2011 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions
I did think that for both Loney and Sands
the hits might start coming in these next two road trips since they are among the best parks to hit in baseball.
by bhsportsguy on May 23, 2011 12:46 PM PDT up reply actions
really enjoyed
Sands going 4-4 yesterday :)
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions
Reg
Frank Thomas had a 200 point OPS split between DH/1st base and it started very early in his career. Shockingly he actually had several seasons where did not even DH. Just looked at his first 10 years and in any year that he had a decent amount of DH at bats, only one year did he have a better OPS as a DH, all the other times it was 100 – 250 point spreads.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Interesting. I mean it’s definitely a thing that some guys can’t DH (I think Giambi might have been one of these too) I just wonder how widespread it is, and if we’ll ever be able to tell if it’s because Dunn is bad or because he can’t DH.
Of course, it’s still early enough that he can hit five dingers in the next couple weeks and be right back at Adam Dunn numbers.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions
Generally
Giambi was an okay DH but he did have some below average years there.
He was a great hitter at first base early in his career.
And that’s really the problem with trying to study this, most people don’t get moved to DH until they’re passed their prime.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 1:10 PM PDT up reply actions
Manny had significant at bats at age 29 and 30 at DH
and hit great doing so but after that, he really didn’t start many games at DH until the end of his career.
I don’t think it mattered much to him.
It would probably be hard to prove one way or another, if you are successful as a DH, you will stay as one, if not, the team will move along. You probably don’t have much other value because if you could field, they would have used you there.
by bhsportsguy on May 23, 2011 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions
Manny Ramirez was one wild and crazy guy
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Nice preview Phil
Solid analysis/handicapping of the pitching matchups. Norris is underrated and Joe Public is probably giving the Dodgers too much of a chance to win tonight. I hope we get 2 out of 3 and don’t end up kick starting the Astros early season woes.
If there’s one thing Joe Public has taught me, it’s that you’ve got to live and learn.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
Is Joe Public the character-saving twitter version of John Q. Public?
@davidyoungtbla - The commenter formerly known as El Lay Dave.
I only know from the New Jack Swing-style outfit from the 90’s.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
Rookie of the Year race is wide open now
Because the Reds optioned Edinson Volquez today.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 1:20 PM PDT via mobile reply actions 1 recs
Sands is making a run at it
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Landslide towards Pineda at the moment.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Pineda is what we hope Rubby will be eh?
even though Pineda is bigger.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:30 PM PDT up reply actions
Pineda is big
6 7 255
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
he is big
Rubby is 6’1’’ 185
I believe
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:35 PM PDT up reply actions
Pineda is JR Richard big
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
JR Richard has one of my favorite "I'm so badass" quotes
I could throw a ball through a carwash, and it would come out dry on the other side.
something like that :)
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:37 PM PDT up reply actions
If MLB Network existed for only that special on JR Richard, and that quote, then it’s all worth it.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:23 PM PDT up reply actions
I must be missing something, because there is no way Volquez is still a rookie.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
Hey
If Jansen becomes the Closer he could get a shot at it
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Volquez received three different votes in 2008 ROY vote, finishing 4th, even though he was not eligible for the award.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:35 PM PDT up reply actions
It was a pretty common mistake. I don’t think anyone in my fantasy league realized Volquez was a rookie until June or so.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 2:47 PM PDT up reply actions
Was anyone in your league paid to write full-time about baseball, and admitted into the BBWAA?
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions
No, but it’s still a league of people who take fantasy baseball pretty seriously and knowing who a rookie is matters a lot.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 2:50 PM PDT up reply actions
One more GM thought
If a sale indeed is completed during MLB supervision, aren’t the odds pretty good that the next Dodgers GM is Kim Ng?
Let the Bison roam.
by Little Blue Bicycle on May 23, 2011 1:20 PM PDT reply actions
The last time the MLB took over a team and replaced a GM the Nats got young upstart Jim Bowden.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 1:24 PM PDT up reply actions
She says she still wants a GM job.
Let the Bison roam.
by Little Blue Bicycle on May 23, 2011 1:28 PM PDT up reply actions
Well I wouldn’t say the odds are zero, but I’d bet pretty heavily against it.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions
Don’t see how one has anything to do with the other.
If Joe Torre gets the gig I’m out of here.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
If Joe Torre gets the gig
And here’s your odds on favorite. Bill Bavasi could use another job too.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions
My thinking is this: MLB will support her, she got out of LA in time and with her teflon intact, she still wants to be a GM by her own admission, and she knows the team better than anyone not currently employed by Frank McCourt. Ready to go from day 1 and all that.
Let the Bison roam.
by Little Blue Bicycle on May 23, 2011 1:26 PM PDT up reply actions
Or they could hire an old white guy that will send Bud a nice bottle of scotch come Christmas time.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 1:28 PM PDT up reply actions
Logan White?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions
progressive!
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:28 PM PDT up reply actions
Does anyone in the AL have a better one – two right now then King Feliz and Michael Pineda?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Haren Weaver where the first to pop into my mind as well
I’m guessing at some point Pineda will hit a wall ala Latos last year
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
I don’t think Pineda will hit that wall…at least not too hard.
Mariner’s fans around here aren’t shocked by what he is doing this year. They expected it.
The Mariners have a real nice group of SP right now.
Unless he Don Newcombe he’ll hit it, then again he could be.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
It has nothing to do with talent
Latos hit that wall because his arm died. Its hard to make the jump in innings pitched from a minor league season to a full major league season
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
I just keep laughing at the talking heads
saying the Mariners should trade Felix now because they have Pineda.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:35 PM PDT up reply actions
They do need a 2nd, SS, 3rd, C, and LF, but other then that they are set.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Don't they have Ackley
for 2B?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:37 PM PDT up reply actions
.264/.375/.429 through 44 games this year. So maybe not for a while.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions
Shields didn't just bounce back
he bounced over the moon
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Well you don’t want to shake up the lineup because Kemp’s brain will explode if he has to bat sooner.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 1:30 PM PDT up reply actions
heh
other then that I have a hard time complaining about the makeup of this roster considering what Donnie has to work with
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
something about making the same comment a 100 times
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
i hope Sands is in RF
then again, I remember Gibbons playing LF at Minute Maid last year.
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:31 PM PDT up reply actions
Yes, they’ll walk Kemp every time. Let Sands bat ight after Kemp, so he can drive him home with a double.
by wonderphenom on May 23, 2011 1:40 PM PDT up reply actions
Loney is technically swinging a hot bat
Carrol getting what is probably a much needed day off.
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
That lineup is just beyond laughable
I hate this season.
Nothing is ever easy.
by drulenarendes on May 23, 2011 1:51 PM PDT up reply actions
Here's what really happened
Don Mattingly called Kershaw into his office before the game to discuss matchups. Kershaw told him to fuck off, repeating ’I’m a Cy Young candidate homie’. In retalitaion, Mattingly fielded that lineup.
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
According to fangrapsh
five of the top 10 players in the NL are center fielders.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
25 TBLA Points - Home runs this series, player and qty
I was a tad optimistic in my last foray into guessing home runs for the series. though I did get Mitchell, Sands, Kemp, but Kemp did not give me the four I asked for.
Gibbons 1
Mitchell 1
Loney 1
Sands 2
Kemp 1
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
I’ll take
Sands 2
Kemp 1
Gibbons 1
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions
no touching of the hair or face
otherwise, there are no rules
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:56 PM PDT up reply actions
Of course /ben stiller
"If we hit that bull's eye, the rest of the dominoes will fall like a house of cards. Checkmate"
MItchell 1
Kemp 2
Loney 1
Miles 1
Stupid Band Box of a park. If the majority of homeruns to right field hit a wall and land back on the grass, you designed the stadium poorly. The might as well move the flag pole behine the mound if you want to make it interesting.
I’ve only been to one game there but I enjoyed that game. The stadium was pretty nice inside and they used up as much room as they could. It’s not as if there is a huge parking lot outside they could have expanded onto.
I think they over did the gimmicks personally. But more than anything, i just hate the bulk(purely anecdotal count) of homeruns bouncing back onto the field, or hitting above a line instead of being plainly obvious.
Brad Lidge can’t pitch every game though.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:03 PM PDT up reply actions
Did they stop making out for a second or two?
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions
So you could say that some home runs hit in Houston
are Nolanders.
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
by G.Scott on May 23, 2011 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
13.5 TBLA Points for
brilliance referencing our member base.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
I don't get it
I’ll just assume you are calling me dumb and I am too dumb to understand that you are calling me dumb.
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Maybe
Pujols hit it so far some say it never landed.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
So you are saying I'm so crazy its like I'm in orbit
now thats just mean
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Furcal 1
Kemp 2
Sands 1
"Oh ville lumière, sens la chaleur de notre coeur, vois-tu notre ferveur quand nous marchons près de toi. Dans cette conquête, chasser l'ennemi, enfin pour que nos couleurs brillent encore..."
"Nous sommes les parisiens (clap clap clap clap) et nous chantons en choeur (clap clap clap clap). Nous sommes les parisiens (clap clap clap clap), fidèles à nos couleurs (clap clap clap clap). Lololo lololo, lololo lololo"
Kiss my Aul[ass], hahaha
Kemp 1
Loney 1
Sands 1
Let the Bison roam.
by Little Blue Bicycle on May 23, 2011 2:04 PM PDT up reply actions
I'll take a guess
Loney 2
Kemp 1
Sands 2
Navarro 1
Gibbons 1
Were going run crazy this series
"If we hit that bull's eye, the rest of the dominoes will fall like a house of cards. Checkmate"
He's going home
Gonna break out in a big way
"If we hit that bull's eye, the rest of the dominoes will fall like a house of cards. Checkmate"
that is a depressing lineup we’re trotting out there today. even kid K can’t save it from looking like a shit sandwich.
Current TBLA Points
Marty – 25
Rihanna’s Ex – 25
Alex1592 – 35
Tommy BlackJack – 20
Michael White – 20
RiffRafElbow- 20
Silverwidow – 20
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
I should have
120, for getting the OPS above Konerko question
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 1:56 PM PDT up reply actions
Nice
forgot about that one, and I made it a big one. At this rate I think you’ll be able to redeem for that Slim Jim
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Current TBLA Points
Marty – 25
Rihanna’s Ex – 25
Alex1592 – 35
Tommy BlackJack –120
Michael White – 20
RiffRafElbow- 20
Silverwidow – 20
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
OH YEEEE-AHHHHH!!!!
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions
You gave me 25 that one time for reading the post and quoting it
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
ha ha
I saw that, then couldn’t figure out why I gave it to you. Now I know why.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Current TBLA Points
Marty – 25
Rihanna’s Ex – 25
Alex1592 – 35
Tommy BlackJack –120
Michael White – 20
RiffRafElbow- 20
Silverwidow – 20
NoLander – 25
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Kemp
Given the players we field right now, Matt Kemp looks a lot like Barry Bonds. If the Astros were smart, they’d avoid pitching to him at all costs. If they were smart…
Barry Bonds never swung at sliders out of the zone like Kemp. You pitch to him, you just Aerosmith him and go Livin’ on the Edge.
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
and hope he doesn’t Love in an Elevator one out of the park like Friday.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions
I’m forever dumbfounded that someone as ugly as Tyler had a daughter who could have been a Goddess in Middle Earth
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
True or False: Aerosmith’s most long-standing legacy will be that amazingly beautiful daughter the lead singer had.
utterly false
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions
Right – nothing near the strike zone, under threat of a fine from management!
by wonderphenom on May 23, 2011 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions
so they'll want him to
Walk this Way (to first base)?
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions
For 37 TBLA Points
Without going to the Baseball Ref web site, give me the Houston Astro SS who has the highest career OPS+ since they began playing games as the Houston Colt 45’s?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
I hang my head
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Brad Lidge
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Carlos Beltran
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Andre Johnson
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Randy Johnson
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
had to look it up, and still don’t know who it is.
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
I guess the real question
is why would you look it up, I only ask questions I referenced in my writeup.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Denis Menke
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Denis Menke
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Morgan Ensberg
played some second base and had that one good year, does he count? :)
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
Billy Doran wasn’t a bad hitter. He probably played a game or two at short at some point.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
I just ran into Broxton 2 minutes ago
He was walking with his wife and kid on Colorado Blvd. I said “Hey Jon” and he barely even acknowledged it and kept walking.
He’s a dick. He tried to run over Marty at Best Buy too.
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
TV does not do him justice.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 2:26 PM PDT up reply actions
No they are not, someone may have written about the lack of good hitting shortstops in the Astro past. Someone
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Denis Menke
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Correct
but didn’t you say you checked Baseball ref first?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
I didn't find the answer on baseball-reference
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
I found the answer by reading your wonderful write up
that references baseball-reference
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Okay - points to you
though it did seem I had to hand it to someone on a platter even though it was already incredibly easy.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Its like we are dumb or something
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
You still think we read your write-ups???
by KellyStephen on May 23, 2011 2:19 PM PDT up reply actions
I usually do eventually
but I mean the Astros suck
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
No
Tommy does which is why he’s my favorite.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Funny part
That would have been my guess too if I hadn’t read above :)
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:21 PM PDT up reply actions
Mine to, but I do remember Menke, got a great 64 card of him, well worn.
Hope Marlon Byrd does not go the Dickie Thon route.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
So Hunter Pence is hitting 808
but how is his defense?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Current TBLA Points
Marty – 25
Rihanna’s Ex – 25
Alex1592 – 35
Tommy BlackJack –120
Michael White – 20
RiffRafElbow- 20
Silverwidow – 20
NoLander – 62
G Scott – 13.5
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
AbqTopes
Today’s ’Topes line-up: Gordon- 6, Blake- 5, Oeltjen- 9, Lindsey- 3, Hoffmann- 8, De Jesus- 4, Robinson- 7, Espino- 2, Sexton- 1
what do we know
about this Blake guy? :)
"Heroes get remembered, but Legends never die."
by Tommy Blackjack on May 23, 2011 2:28 PM PDT up reply actions
A.J. Ellis ready to pounce on a flight to Houston
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:30 PM PDT up reply actions
Or is it just precautionary, as in ‘the way our luck has been going, he’d get hurt tonight".
by wonderphenom on May 23, 2011 2:36 PM PDT up reply actions
Isn’t Houston a short hop from ABQ? Topes are home the next few nights.
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
15 hours drivin
884 miles
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
West Texas threatens to become a dustbowl
Mississippi doing some century type flooding
Tornado’s as far north as Minneapolis
about 75 today, breezy.
Not gloating but weather wise Los Angeles is the Kristina Hendricks of tits.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
I get the metaphor
But I would add, that those other locales are the Keira Knightleys of great places to live weatherwise on a good day.
so skinny you wish they would just eat a goddamn cheesburger?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Not gloating but weather wise Los Angeles is theKristina HendricksEvelyn Taft of tits.
Hendricks rules too, but if we’re talking weather…
Would have been more prescient if you did this Thursday, or early Friday morning :)
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions
The guy who trained himself to be ambidextrous because he broke his arm?
You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.
Can someone help me get this straight?
A DFA is straight release different from waiver wire? or is it the same thing?
"Champions last year," he said. "Not this year." - Rubby De La Rosa after shaming the Giants in ST
Designating someone for assignment just removes someone from the 40-man roster. The team has 10 days to decide what to do. Some time within the first 8 days, the player needs to be placed on waivers. If he clears, the player can be outrighted to the minors (once), or even released. If the player is claimed, the old team can let him go or try to work out a trade with the claiming team.
by Eric Stephen on May 23, 2011 2:53 PM PDT up reply actions
Texas gets back Josh Hamilton and Nelson Cruz today. Man, can you imagine us playing for two weeks without Kemp and Andre?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Al Yellon's solution to Dodger Divorce/Ownership: lottery!
http://mlb.sbnation.com/2011/5/23/2182757/dodger-divorce-sale-frank-mccourt-jamie-mccourt
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Of course, $300 million won’t put much of a dent in that deficit, but by purchasing one of these highly coveted tickets, you too can help get our most populous state out of the troubles it’s been in for more than three decades.
Who knew my state has been messed up for 30 years. I blame Fernando
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
California has been messed up for 30 years, much like Eric Karros was the key to the Cubs 2003 playoff run.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions
That was really disappointing. It was a really cute idea for a funny piece and then he just wasn’t funny.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
How much would you pay for the chance to own the Dodgers?
A $10,000 lottery ticket would give you a 100,000 to 1 chance
or
A $100,0000 Lottery ticket would give you a 10,000 to 1 chance
I’d do the 100,000 to one chance for a 10,000 buy in.
are there 100,000 other fools like me who would pony up 10,000 for a chance like this? Maybe not so far fetched.
I think it would take a minimum of 800,000 to buy them off and pay off the debt service leaving someone free and clear ownership. Good god the things you could do.
/dream over
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Of all the SBNation baseball blog guys
how does Al Yellon end up on the SBNation MLB writers staff? Grant Bisbee sure. Al Yellon?
@davidyoungtbla - The commenter formerly known as El Lay Dave.
What would be a more difficult crossover: Tennis to baseball or vice versa? I’m talking on a professional level.
Most baseball players can’t run for two hours.
@andrewngrant
by regfairfield on May 23, 2011 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions
Would think having a trained eye to see slice and velocity changes coming at you would make you a pretty okay contact hitter with good range as a MI. Dunno about arm strength or power, but I don’t think going from baseball to competitive tennis would be anything short of a miracle.
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
Well
A 110mph serve at 78 feet is the reaction time of hitting an 85mph fastball at 60.5 feet. A 95mph fastball reaction time would be about 122mph serve. The world record of 156mph serve is the reaction time of a 121 mph fastball at 60.5 feet.
Can check my math if you like, either way, that’s crazy.
No Rafael Furcals were hurt in the making of this video.
Didn’t Arthur Ashe play a lot of (amateur) ball before he went pro in tennis?
by wonderphenom on May 23, 2011 3:30 PM PDT up reply actions
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