2012 Dodgers Player Profile: Chad Billingsley, "True Number 2/3 Starter"
by Michael White on Feb 14, 2012 6:00 AM PST
in Community Projections
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It seems like an eternity ago that we were arguing against the "haters" who doubted that Chad Billingsley was or could be the Dodgers "true ace." In a lesson of re-calibrating expectations (plus, Clayton Kershaw and his Cy Young Award make the question of who is the Dodgers Ace an easy one) the open question for Billingsley is whether he's still a solid SP2 or SP3 for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012. Billingsley posted another pretty disappointing year in 2011 (after a solid 2010) with some very discouraging peripherals. As can happen with young hard-throwing pitchers, Billingsley's K/9 has continued to decline. Worse however is that Billingsley did not manage his declining K rates with increased control (as he had done in 2010.) Instead, Billingsley recorded a BB/9 of 4.02 in 2011 which is the highest since being called up in 2006. Lastly, Billingsley also recorded a career high Line Drive percentage of 20.9%. To sum up, Billingsley is walking more, striking out fewer, and when the ball is put in play, the opponent is hitting it harder. One year does not make a career defining trend, but suffice it to say that Billingsley will need to fundamentally improve (particularly with his command) in order to establish himself as the number 2 starting pitcher behind Clayton Kershaw, because the Dodgers will certainly need it.
| 2012 Dodgers Player Profiles |
| This continues our series of 2012 player profiles, where we will analyze one player per day, between now and the end of spring training. This is also the spot for our community projections, so be sure to give us your predictions for each player for this season in the comments section. |
Trivia
As this past off-season saw the end of the Jonathan Broxton era in Los Angeles, Chad Billingsley is now the longest tenured Dodger pitcher. Ramon Troncoso signed with the Dodgers one year before Billingsley but didn't make his Dodger debut until 2008 (2 years after Billingsley.) Only James Loney, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier have been a Dodger (based on Dodger major league debut) longer than Chad.
Contract Status
At the end of spring training last year, the Dodgers worked out a contract extension with Billingsley which bought out his final arbitration season (would have been this year) plus an additional 2 years of free agency with a club option for a third. Billingsley will be paid $9MM in 2012.
Previous Dodgers Player Profiles
2011: Chad Billingsley
2010: Chad Billingsley
Stats
| Year | Age | IP | BB/9 | K/9 | ERA | FIP | x-FIP | tERA | ERA+ |
| 2009 | 24 | 196.1 | 3.94 | 8.21 | 4.03 | 3.82 | 4.04 | 3.93 | 99 |
| 2010 |
25 | 191.2 | 3.24 | 8.03 | 3.57 | 3.07 | 3.81 | 3.21 | 107 |
| 2011 | 26 | 188.0 | 4.02 | 7.29 | 4.21 | 3.83 | 4.14 | 4.18 | 88 |
| 2012Projections - Age 27Season | |||||||||
| Year | IP | BB/9 | K/9 | ERA | FIP | ||||
| Bill James | 174 | 4.02 | 8.17 | 3.67 | 3.61 | ||||
| PECOTA | 174 | 3.60 | 7.70 | 3.91 | |||||
| ZiPS | 190 | 3.65 | 7.81 | 3.74 | |||||
2012 Outlook
As noted above, Billingsley is simply going to have to manage to reverse the recent trends in order to turn in a succcesful season in 2012. Again, I'm not terribly surprised or alarmed by the declining K rates however his command is going to have to improve. The walks must come down and Billingsley must manage to keep hitters guessing a bit better. Can he do it? As an unabashed Billingsley fanboy, I think he can.
I predict an ERA of 3.45, FIP of 3.25 and x-FIP of 3.75 in 210 innings pitched.
What is your prediction? Be sure to guess Billingsley's ERA, number of innings pitched, plus anything else you would like to predict.
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Comments
From last thread, this is too awesome. How many times will we post this this year I wonder...
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
here is the link
http://mikesciosciastragicillness.com/2012/02/13/this-might-be-the-best-thing-javy-guerra-and-james-loney-do-all-year/
Check it out and smile this morning
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
I like Javy behind Manson the best I think
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
me too
I made prediction last year and it’s my fault he was frustrating. Won’t get fooled again!
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Just an update quote from Mike Brown regarding the tournament.
The LFP forum 2 team was put together at the last minute after the Dodgers PR team pulled out. That team was made up of guys on my forum and people who signed up when I posted about needing players. I did not even have a final roster for that team till Friday night when I added three people from Facebook and moved some of the players from my Forum 1 team over to team 2. I also had three people drop off that team last week. So I really had no idea if I even had enough players to field a team on Sat. The one girl came with the girl who played second for my team. The other girl came from Facebook.
.
I had no idea how good any of them were going into Sat. The team they beat was an organized team. I told that teams mgr no organized teams when he asked to join. I knew something was up when I agreed to let him field a team and he sent me a roster with players names and positions the very next day. I was giving him the benefit of a doubt. and was hoping all day someone would beat them. I never thought it would be any of my teams.
.
by M.Brown on Feb 13, 2012 11:09 PM PST up reply actions
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
A couple of the LFP2 ringers play in a league I play in up here in Camarillo. They are really really good. Their team had to be split up here because they kept going 10-0 every season and winning all the sweatshirts. Really nice guys though. They told me they had no idea they were going to be put on the same team, just that more players were needed so they grabbed the best.
We will find out this spring that he has arm problems related back to last summer and that was why his peripherals fell apart. Basically he will Broxton us.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
His x-FIP did get progressively worse as the season went on
x-FIP by month
Apr: 3.65
May: 3.41
Jun: 4.47
Jul: 4.01
Aug: 4.61
Sep:5.35
by Michael White on Feb 14, 2012 8:18 AM PST up reply actions
Last spring training I saw a huge hitch in his mechanics and predicted a bad season for him unless he fixed it. I didn’t expect THAT bad of a season, but the hitch never got fixed and here we are.
I’ll make a prediction, but it’ll be after I see him in Spring Training.
You're not yet drunk if you can lay on the floor without holding on.
nah, he’s going to allow one run every 12 innings.
You're not yet drunk if you can lay on the floor without holding on.
what kind of spawn does a trolley have?
buses?
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 8:36 AM PST up reply actions
carts?
I pitched to Matt Kemp, and all I got was this stupid earned run.
@maddzgoesrawr @arenafitness @madeleine_arena
If a cart and a trolley got married, the trolley would get a visa
#obscure
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 9:49 AM PST up reply actions
and also, ridership was declining anyhow, and trains cost a lot more to maintain
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:32 AM PST up reply actions
I knew you would challenge this, because the idea of GM killing the LA redlines is a bit urban myth.
by Michael White on Feb 14, 2012 11:47 AM PST up reply actions
it’s a fun one, and when I was in school and hated everything I deemed environment destroying I bought it, but it’s just not true. The freeways made cars the dominant mode of transportation, it was gridlock that brought trains back, no more conspiracy than that to it.
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:49 AM PST up reply actions
the man behind Shea Stadium, and as a result the man responsible for the Los Angeles Dodgers. How interesting : )
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 12:05 PM PST up reply actions
Roger Rabbit was more about the ethnic displacement side of freeway building (which definitely happened, and also happened with trainbuilding [ask me about the real old Chinatown]) than it was about big oil destroying the trolleys
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 12:38 PM PST up reply actions
oh it’s definitely there, just yeah in the background
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 12:41 PM PST up reply actions
Billingsley makes all star team
Uribe is too fat to play 3rd base so Dodgers move Bills there. He hits .300, 25 HRs and 100 RBI’s (I am actually tempted to think this is a good idea)
"rudeness is the weak man's imitation of strength"...Eric Hoffer
Posterizing an entire team? That's cold.
Equally annoying, Sports Illustrated trying to insert itself like that. #SILinsanity?
he’s on his third step right there anyway.
You're not yet drunk if you can lay on the floor without holding on.
There isn’t any travelling in basketball anymore. It’s called pre-takeoff preparation
Baseball is a game, and games are supposed to be fun.
He took a
wait for it, a Lindy hop : )
#Swingdanced
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 8:36 AM PST up reply actions
no haters, that is an awesome photo
when you do something no one has ever done, don’t hate the love enjoy the ride.
He’s on an Ely run.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
“You can get in the van, just don’t enjoy that shit”
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 8:46 AM PST up reply actions
time will tell
that is a harsh sentence
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:21 AM PST up reply actions
I was driving yesterday and all I heard on the radio was Lin & Tiger. And that brought in Tebow and Whitney. Then I switched to Bon Iver. I really like the song “Halocene.”
I need to listen to him to see what’s up, any other suggestions besides that one?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Bon Iver is fantastic, but quite moody.
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 8:47 AM PST up reply actions
I must admit when I heard the “Breaking News” that Cespedes had signed, I was really wishing it was us :( That would’ve made me more excited about the season.
I think the Dodgers are more likely to sign a Centipede than Cespedes
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 8:50 AM PST up reply actions
he apparently wrote that album while isolated in a cabin by himself. my sister wanted to recreate it. hipsters.
I pitched to Matt Kemp, and all I got was this stupid earned run.
@maddzgoesrawr @arenafitness @madeleine_arena
my sister is definitely a hipster. i asked her to describe a hipster once and she basically described herself (and my brother). I said, “So…you?” and she was like, “NO! …oh wait, shit.”
I pitched to Matt Kemp, and all I got was this stupid earned run.
@maddzgoesrawr @arenafitness @madeleine_arena
by Maddz on Feb 14, 2012 9:49 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Wonder if that jinxes the Lakers and Lin or just one or the other?
Hopefully neither, though the Lakers may not need the help.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
“Hey, entire team, let’s guard this guy” is not a good defensive strategy. Especially since he scored on the play
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 8:48 AM PST up reply actions
I thought it said “Against All Duds” at first glance and thought it was a crank cover.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 8:49 AM PST up reply actions
Come to think of it…I guess the way the Lakers are playing that wouldn’t be too much of a stretch.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 8:52 AM PST up reply actions
Question
Looks like another softball tournament will be played this summer. We could easily field two teams if we can recruit two more skirts. The question I have is this. Would players be offended if we had a Team A and Team B where Team A was loaded with our best players and Team B was filled with folk who just want to have a fun day worth of softball but have little expectation of winning and don’t want to take it seriously? I’m asking because we have the following options:
1. Field one huge team where many of us simply don’t play enough
2. Field two mediocre teams and both go home after three games
3. Field one team who should be good enough to compete for the title, and one team who simply has a lot of fun much like the Sons of Steve Garvey Team. I would be playing on Team B. Hopefully David, Michael, and Eric would also play on Team B.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Fly my brother out from Baltimore. He’ll wear a skirt and a wig.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 8:52 AM PST up reply actions
i was gonna say, phrasing it that way, could end up with a couple of Scottish guys
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Dont mind me Phil, but you seemed to be obsessed by this softball tournament stuff and looking for a way to win it all.
quiet ewe, Phil I’m all aboard the A&B plan
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 8:57 AM PST up reply actions
Yeah – we could family up and really make a powerhouse
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:24 AM PST up reply actions
I predict Chad Billingsley will retire due to boredom at the All Star Break and be the ace on Team B. He’ll be asked to leave Team B in between games for not putting one in Weisman’s ear after he threw behind Eric in the first game.
by Tim Crews' Dastardly Mustache on Feb 14, 2012 9:08 AM PST up reply actions 5 recs
The thing about Team A and Team B
is that Team B will show everyone what’s what and win it all anyway :)
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
That is the plan but keep it on the low down
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
2 teams with one varsity and one jv is cool with me
Knowing I’ll be a JV player.
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
Same here.
This way i won’t feel bad after my 4th defensive error.
Assuming i come back to SoCal for the summer.
@TElciram
by Taylor Maricle on Feb 14, 2012 11:42 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Phil, you are good softball player, get yourself on the field
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:24 AM PST up reply actions
terrible manager, but I have hope that he will get better
anyone who stacks the ladies isn’t paying attention
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:27 AM PST up reply actions
to be fair, I wasn’t planning on being too involved until I tripped on the base paths and felt the need to defend my honor as an athlete.
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 9:29 AM PST up reply actions
I still think there was a sniper in the bushes
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:29 AM PST up reply actions
"but those ladies are already stacked!"
ba dum BUMP
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
you weren’t even at the game to see her
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:37 AM PST up reply actions
I would totes be interested
I can be the B teams secret weapon
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
see the B team can be awesome and have fun, and the A team can scream at the umpire because we don’t understand the rules : )
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 9:39 AM PST up reply actions
yeah, that was another expectation I had of the manager
rules
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:42 AM PST up reply actions
I’m only playing if I can practice first this time
I pitched to Matt Kemp, and all I got was this stupid earned run.
@maddzgoesrawr @arenafitness @madeleine_arena
tbla picnic with a seamless transition to tbla championship
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
In defense of Phil, Mr. Brown said we’d be using USSSA rules, so he read the rulebook from beginning to end only to find the rules were bullshit except for the ones he didn’t tell anyone about.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
learning what the ump meant by “illegal” and “one to waste” and “gotta be” as we were playing the third game sure was fun.
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 9:59 AM PST up reply actions
I liked being the worst player on my team, except for the times in the outfield when I showed I was the worst player on my team.
Missing the diving catch in Game 1 was an opportunity wasted. Missing the can of corn in Game 4 has been a burr in my aching saddle for the past three days and counting.
what makes us
so easy to remember the errors, so hard to remember the hits
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 10:49 AM PST up reply actions
My timing at the plate improved a little as the day went on. Although my best hit was a liner to right that went just foul. Would have been a triple if I were running 100 percent. Instead, I had the aching walk back to the plate.
at least you didn’t carry the bat with you!
/inside joke
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 10:56 AM PST up reply actions
I did, I wasn’t happy with the swing and I ran to first with the bat
I still say that I dropped it before I hit the bag, but who really knows what time it is anyway
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:02 PM PST up reply actions
Already had you penciled in. Been feeling bad I had to tell you we were full up.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:38 AM PST up reply actions
Phil is a softie
he wears a floppy hat and sat himself most of the tourney so others can play
you are a good man PhilGurn ie
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:40 AM PST up reply actions
It’s going to be a big year for Chad:
3.13 ERA 3.08 FIP 218 Innings 207 Ks
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
And they say puppy love does not last
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
The Houston Doubters
waiting for the Whitney Houston / Houston Astro re-name jokes to begin
"rudeness is the weak man's imitation of strength"...Eric Hoffer
Gah, now Josh Maciello is tweeting me, too. Reg make it stop!
Make him stop searching and replying! I get it, he means well. He’s not going to own the Dodgers. Move on, guy.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
He is getting the Voldemort treatment from me, the more someone wants my attention the less chance there is of me ever saying their name
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:31 AM PST up reply actions
Yeah or is he Beetlejuice? Don't say his name three times, that's even worse.
Either way, I won’t mention him again or reply to anyone (as happened here) who was discussing or tweeting at him.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
posted without comment (his final tweet)
Josh Macciello @joshmacciello
@craigary @EephusBlue Thanks Buddy. Rings will follow me buddy. Multiple
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
another clown chasing the Dodger circus
this is about as bad as the strippers who ran for governor of California during the Davis impeachment
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:37 AM PST up reply actions
So did they
I would post a pic, but NSFW with those ladies
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 9:42 AM PST up reply actions
awesoke photo
saw him warming up, dude had a great arm from outfield. he’s a player
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
which blog team did he play for?
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
for you Jon?
I am all smiles and giggles
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 10:50 AM PST up reply actions
I’m stuck between deciding if he’s a con artist or a crazy person. Leaning crazy person.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 11:42 AM PST up reply actions
Con artist
Crazy people don’t dress up in a Dodger uniform and take a bunch of photos with complete strangers at an event – like he is some kid of guy to a take a picture with
Crazy doesn’t self promote nearly this well
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:52 AM PST up reply actions
But a con artist would realize that hunting random people down on Twitter to prove he’s for real makes him look fake.
He could be a crazy con artist.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 11:54 AM PST up reply actions
lets all agree on this
Attention Whore
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:55 AM PST up reply actions
Amen to that.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 11:59 AM PST up reply actions
Either one works.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Your insistence that he made up a movie that seems to at least have tried to exist is still kind of weird.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
I haven’t mentioned that since you pointed it out.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 12:37 PM PST up reply actions
And if you follow the claim that he actually was involved in this it leads to “Loraine Ave Productions” Another company that doesn’t have things like a mailing address or things they’ve accomplished.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 12:45 PM PST up reply actions
Did he make up anything else on his CV? I mean, he has almost nothing of substance, but I don’t seem to recall anything that was patently false.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
In the sense that you can’t prove something doesn’t exist, no. In the sense that there’s no actual evidence he did any of these things, he made up everything.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 12:48 PM PST up reply actions
Question on Rookie League Pioneer League team in Ogden
Yesterday, the Casper Star-Tribune in Wyoming reported that an “unnamed Pioneer League” team will be visiting Casper in May to see if they want to re-locate to Casper in 2013. The Rockies’ team was there since 2001, but they grew tired of minimal fan support and moved the team to Grand Junction, CO for 2012. The location is vacant, but the team looking to move there is unknown.
Might it be the Ogden Raptors? It would make the most sense for the mystery team to be from the South Division just due to travel purposes, as the other four teams in the league are all in Montana. Has there been any noise that the Dodgers are displeased with their location in Ogden?
"Some guy on the net thinks I suck, and he should know - he's got his own blog." - Nick Hornby
"Lex clavatoris designati rescindenda est"
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Feb 14, 2012 9:32 AM PST reply actions
Have not, only Brandon cares about what happens in Ogden. Based on our hitting what happens in Ogden stays in Ogden
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Guffaw
only Brandon cares about what happens in Ogden.
I know Chad Moriyama cares too, but not sure how often he ventures here. I will say that James Baldwin III prospect of yours got me a lot of cheap beers with that strikeout swing
"Some guy on the net thinks I suck, and he should know - he's got his own blog." - Nick Hornby
"Lex clavatoris designati rescindenda est"
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Feb 14, 2012 9:57 AM PST up reply actions
Aren't they fairly popular in Ogden? Why would they move to a, uh, ghost town (as it were)?
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Not sure
"Some guy on the net thinks I suck, and he should know - he's got his own blog." - Nick Hornby
"Lex clavatoris designati rescindenda est"
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Feb 14, 2012 10:05 AM PST up reply actions
Ogden Is Always Near The Top In Pioneer League Attendance
by CanuckDodger on Feb 14, 2012 10:24 AM PST up reply actions
Good to know
Ogden was my least likely guess among those in the division.
"Some guy on the net thinks I suck, and he should know - he's got his own blog." - Nick Hornby
"Lex clavatoris designati rescindenda est"
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Feb 14, 2012 10:29 AM PST up reply actions
I just looked at my old emails…the Dodgers signed a four-year extension through the 2014 season with Ogden back in August 2010, so it’s probably not the Dodgers.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:19 AM PST up reply actions
Super thanks
"Some guy on the net thinks I suck, and he should know - he's got his own blog." - Nick Hornby
"Lex clavatoris designati rescindenda est"
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Feb 14, 2012 10:27 AM PST up reply actions
as others have mentioned it probably isn't the Raptors
but I am disappointed to hear that I won’t be able to write about the Casper Ghosts anymore in my 2012 minor league reports
by Brandon Lennox on Feb 14, 2012 11:16 AM PST up reply actions
josh sullivan back with more gifs, this time the worst swings of last season
http://mlb.sbnation.com/2012/2/14/2796560/the-ten-worst-swings-of-the-2011-season
- got me to guffaw embarrassingly loud at work
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
I was confused, since Josh Sullivan is a Rockies minor league pitcher, while Jeff Sullivan is the writer
"Some guy on the net thinks I suck, and he should know - he's got his own blog." - Nick Hornby
"Lex clavatoris designati rescindenda est"
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Feb 14, 2012 9:51 AM PST up reply actions
serious lols here
Clint Barmes needs to make up his damn mind, because nobody likes a waffler. Unless a waffler is one who prepares waffles. Then everyone likes a waffler.
by hee came hee seop'd he choi'd on Feb 14, 2012 10:32 AM PST up reply actions
Only thing better then the waffler is the honeydripper
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:33 AM PST up reply actions
Great job here Mike. Always tough to write about a fallen loved one.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 9:57 AM PST reply actions 2 recs
Thanks. There’s not an easy way to dance around it, his peripherals were terrible. I’m still a big fan (loyalty and all that) but even those of us still in his corner need to re-evaluate a realistic career trajectory for him.
by Michael White on Feb 14, 2012 10:09 AM PST up reply actions
If he lets down again this year
There’s no denying it, and I will have to start agreeing. But I have 2012 as Billingsley’s last stand to still be a great pitcher.
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
Once he has surgery, you will get a pass and be all excited about 2013
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:23 AM PST up reply actions
I don’t know why his peripherals got progressively shittier as the season went on. It certainly makes for an argument that he was hiding an injury but I don’t buy it. Billingsley is a guy who immediately removed himself from a game in 2010 after pulling his groin when he was pitching beautifully. In short, he’s never been shy about telling the club when he’s injured, so why would he hide it last year?
If anything, Billingsley (noticing the season was over in mid- May) was trying to work through things while on the mound and it led to a really crappy second half of the season. No need to be conservative with your approach when your team is out of it and you’ve locked up a contract for the next 3 years. Might as well work thru his issues during that time.
by Michael White on Feb 14, 2012 10:42 AM PST up reply actions
That is why I picked all the players who have no expectations to write about.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:22 AM PST up reply actions
2.95 ERA with 221 Ks in 209.2 IP, 17-11
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
We win the division and probably more with this kind of performance.
by silverwidow on Feb 14, 2012 10:21 AM PST up reply actions
I guess the offense would have to be really terrible. But two legit aces? That’s playoff material.
by silverwidow on Feb 14, 2012 10:44 AM PST up reply actions
This strikes me similar to my (wildly false) claim at this time last year that if Kuroda made 30 starts the Dodgers would win the division.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:45 AM PST up reply actions
Are you moving next door to Tony Jackson soon? :)
by silverwidow on Feb 14, 2012 10:26 AM PST up reply actions
Free parking.
$7 tickets (in advance, $12 day of game)
$5 tickets for students (must be purchased on campus)
“Discounted concessions” too
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:31 AM PST up reply actions
If LMU were in, I’d be in. But alas (and alack!)
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 10:32 AM PST up reply actions
What was it last year, like half price for hot dogs, et al? I forget.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:33 AM PST up reply actions
“Free parking”…bet Frank hates that phrase.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:38 AM PST up reply actions
Is there anything Classic about UC Irvine vs. Pepperdine? Are they longstanding rivals or something? Or is this just PR filler? Are there a group of schools who take a turn at being opening fodder for USC vs. UCLA?
Proud College Baseball Schools, thank you very much
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:58 AM PST up reply actions
Though I agree UC Irvine has not business being there simply based on geography. I’d rather see another LA school represented. Any suggestions?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:59 AM PST up reply actions
none that wouldn't be absolutely terrible
uci makes some sense since they play pepperdine every year
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
Pepperdine v LMU is the rivalry, LBSU v Fullerton would work too
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:28 AM PST up reply actions
I don't think LBSU and Fullerton would want to be the undercard though
and Fullerton doesn’t make any more geographical sense then UCI
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
right, but we’re talking specifically about match-ups that will put butts in seats.
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:43 AM PST up reply actions
none of it important, all of it passionate
also a great title for a book
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:46 AM PST up reply actions
Fullerton seems to have won the Big West championship about 80-90% of the time it’s existed. The Big West conference has all the southern California NCAA Division 1 schools outside the Pac 10 (i.e. except UCLA and USC). The membership seems to have varied over the years (I don’t know whether there’s relegation to Division II involved?). At the moment that’s Cal States Fullerton, Northridge, Cal Poly, Long Beach; UCSB, UC Irvine, UC Riverside; and U Pacific. But there have been others. Fullerton seems to win it most years.
Well, in that case, I’m wondering what the geographical limitations are. (Or league? ) Speaking from UCSB here, which does not too badly in baseball.
A lot of times it is based on schedule availability. Last year the other game (besides USC-UCLA) was Georgia vs. Saint Mary’s.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 11:01 AM PST up reply actions
You throw the records out when they play
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 11:05 AM PST up reply actions
I wonder if Gonzaga / Saint Mary have the same rivalry in baseball as they do in basketball
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:06 AM PST up reply actions
I don’t believe for a moment you can get from UCI to Malibu in 40 minutes unless there is zero traffic. Google maps puts their libraries 78 minutes apart by road, over 66 miles.
Follow @DavidYoungTBLA
- The commenter formerly known as El Lay Dave.
So skip UCI and play Pepperdine against UCSB
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:03 AM PST up reply actions
UCI and Pepperdine are stronger programs right now than the two PAC schools.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
debatable
UCI could easily finish the year ahead of ucla but are currently ranked behind them. USC sucks.
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
We drafted their heart and soul, no way they repeat:)
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:06 AM PST up reply actions
Two pretty elite college baseball programs
by Michael White on Feb 14, 2012 11:00 AM PST up reply actions
in case you wanted to see the logo (I know you did)
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 12:03 PM PST up reply actions
Wouldn’t he need an ERA of about 2.79 to win 15 games?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:32 AM PST up reply actions
Oh, hey, do you want to play fantasy baseball? With the same jerks you comment about In ‘N’ Out burger and Dave Grohl all day anyway? Read all about it. And join. Now.
Rangers
They play the Giants, Diamondbacks, Padres and Rockies this year. Conspicuously absent is, well, you know.
GIVE ME KERSHAW/DARVISH.
Take your vacation in July and fly to Kansas City
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:41 AM PST up reply actions
this sounds awesome
BBQ, Blues, Negro league museum which I have given money to but never visited, new ball park for me
everything sounds great except for KC in July
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 10:51 AM PST up reply actions
That is surprising, I guess they didn’t want to give away any secrets to the team they expect to meet in October
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:41 AM PST up reply actions 2 recs
John Calipari was just on the Scott Van Pelt show and I guess Calipari had a quote last week that he wasn’t 53 years old, he was 51 because he “had two years vacated.”
That is funny.
Not a Calipari fan (think he’s a cheating ass and full of himself), but I’ve heard him interviewed a few times and he comes across extremely bright and very funny. I hate when that happens.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:48 AM PST up reply actions
I simply love USC fanboys who hate on other coaches (programs) because they don’t play by the rules.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:48 AM PST up reply actions 3 recs
Todd Bozeman eliminated any chance Cal would have had at claiming moral high ground. Between Bob Toledo and Neuheisel, UCLA has no claim either.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
Did anyone mention UCLA?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:55 AM PST up reply actions
Yes.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
Right, but why reply to me instead of him?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:01 AM PST up reply actions
USC bball needs a cheating head coach and fast!
by uschris0304 on Feb 14, 2012 10:55 AM PST up reply actions
But getting Mayo worked so well for you
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 10:55 AM PST up reply actions
It worked a hell of a lot better then 6-20, thats forsure.
by uschris0304 on Feb 14, 2012 10:57 AM PST up reply actions
Phil’s right…that was the root of all their problems this year.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:59 AM PST up reply actions
But I know they lost their best player to an ACL tear or something in Brazil, maybe they wouldnt be so bad if they had him. But I know SC didnt spend all that money on that new arena for this shit. Hopefully after season Oneal is gone and they can maybe find an up and coming head coach if they cant get a good proven one.
by uschris0304 on Feb 14, 2012 11:01 AM PST up reply actions
The Galen Center
was funded primarily by donors. I don’t think Oneal is going anywhere.
by bhsportsguy on Feb 14, 2012 11:06 AM PST up reply actions
How many BB coaches in major programs survive years like this? Hell Howland should be shit canned.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:07 AM PST up reply actions
Ben Howland has better shot at
being let go than Oneal.
by bhsportsguy on Feb 14, 2012 11:08 AM PST up reply actions
Im not in the know, but was there a situation with Oneal last year with him getting drunk and or his wife, and getting into it with someone, and then being suspended a game in tournament and losing that game? I would think he was already in hot water from that, 6-20 makes that boiling water overflow.
by uschris0304 on Feb 14, 2012 11:10 AM PST up reply actions
Yep, happened during the Pac 10 tourney.
Link.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 11:13 AM PST up reply actions
Ya, he got into with an Arizona booster. I honestly have to idea why USC would keep O’Neal as a head coach. His players hate him, the fans hate him, he’s a raging douchebag, and he cant recruit.
by UCLADodger32 on Feb 14, 2012 11:14 AM PST up reply actions
Sounds like they deserve each other to me.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:16 AM PST up reply actions
We’re in agreement there! I’m all for USC retaining him for the next two decades, I just dont understand it.
Really, Sc doesnt give two shits about basketball. All i’m worried about is our clusterfuck of a basketball program.
by UCLADodger32 on Feb 14, 2012 11:18 AM PST up reply actions
Some are worried that Howland will get
Shabazz and Parker and then what will happen.
I do think the basketball program decline does sit with him, bad recruiting choices (and luck) and bad assistants (until this year recruiting wise)
by bhsportsguy on Feb 14, 2012 11:22 AM PST up reply actions
For me, getting Shabazz and Parker is the only reason to keep Howland. There is no excuse to miss the tournament 2 times in 3 years in his 7-9th season as a coach. This team is completely his responsibility, and its construction and the handling of talent is 100% on him. It’s unacceptable for UCLA to be this bad, especially when the conference is as bad as it ever has been.
by UCLADodger32 on Feb 14, 2012 11:33 AM PST up reply actions
At least he’s been kicking out solid NBA players who do more in the NBA then they did at UCLA.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:39 AM PST up reply actions
He hasnt done much of either (winning and producing NBA guys) over the last 3 years. On this years team, there is maybe 1 or 2 guys who will get a sniff at the league. Getting a huge class for next year will be great, but the warts will still be there.
by UCLADodger32 on Feb 14, 2012 11:41 AM PST up reply actions
I don’t
the dude can coach. he has had some success and some missteps but why start over again with someone new
I like when you have a credible coach and you just leave him alone and let him become great.
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:12 PM PST up reply actions
I used to be so proud that all my favorite teams were the most stable in sports
I think changing coaches mostly fails
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:14 PM PST up reply actions
He’s been left alone and cratered the program. He has changed his recruiting style and his coaching style. He is not the same coach that he once was. It is sad that he has strayed from what made him successful, but there is no getting around it. He’s not getting fired before next year, but if we have another down year next year, I can see no way that he stays.
by UCLADodger32 on Feb 14, 2012 12:25 PM PST up reply actions
Also
I do think that some at USC believe that basketball recruiting is fraught with even more problems than football so they will step lightly there.
And the fact that most alumni and students just don’t seem overly enthused even when that program is half decent.
by bhsportsguy on Feb 14, 2012 11:07 AM PST up reply actions
I agree…this isn’t a focus for them at the moment. They’ll bring in a caretaker for a couple of years and then go try to get a better coach and focus on the hoops team. I think baseball is a higher priority for them at the moment, given their history.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 11:09 AM PST up reply actions
well, with USC football possibly going downhill for awhile after this season due to all the scholarship cuts, maybe this is the time for SC bball to make a move, get a good HC, and try to steal some of the spotlight away… or maybe not.
by uschris0304 on Feb 14, 2012 11:13 AM PST up reply actions
I would assume these donors donated for this to win though no? to give USC the facility it needs to compete?
by uschris0304 on Feb 14, 2012 11:08 AM PST up reply actions
No, I’m sure the underlying principle in building the top notch arena was to put a team in there that couldn’t compete against the Serra Womans High School Basketball team.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:09 AM PST up reply actions
Hey they tried it
it got OJ Mayo who had a part in the most severe sanctions on a football program short of the death penalty.
Even with Mayo, the only games they ever drew well was against UCLA and that was because UCLA fans went to the Galen Center.
Its a good facility and it is useful for their Olympic Sports and probably directs more revenue to the athletic department but I think they see college basketball, especially with the one and done rule as something they hope to compete in but not push it.
by bhsportsguy on Feb 14, 2012 11:12 AM PST up reply actions
Okay, seems like a cop out to me. The program sucks so the rational is that no one cares. If no one cared they would not have built the facility. JMO as an outsider who knows nothing.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:16 AM PST up reply actions
Seems like nobody is really into it because they suck most often. Sure they mix in a nice season with NCAA tourney play, sometimes even win a round or two. The Sam Clancy days were alot of fun. But I think if SC was ever consistently a threat, SC people would get behind it. Was SC football attendance still good in the 90s?
by uschris0304 on Feb 14, 2012 11:24 AM PST up reply actions
I think O’Neill is back next year. He’ll get a pass for the injuries, even when they finish with the worst record in school history (outside of the one 0-2 year).
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 11:14 AM PST up reply actions
But Oneill is 206-209 career. 1 time he took a team to sweet 16. Even without injuries where can this team go with him? Its easy to see, Oneill doesnt have IT, and IMO USC should make a move. But we shall see.
by uschris0304 on Feb 14, 2012 11:26 AM PST up reply actions
It would be a long day’s journey into night before the axeman cometh for O’neill.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
by Nolij on Feb 14, 2012 11:32 AM PST up reply actions 2 recs
Its easy to see, Oneill doesnt have IT
OK
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 11:33 AM PST up reply actions
Ahh…Phil loves me! And on Valentine’s Day too!
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:58 AM PST up reply actions
happy valentine's day! this says it all pretty much
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
This will be the first valentine's day in at least 15 years
that I didn’t paint, draw, or otherwise make Mrs HJ her card or gift.
not proud of my effort, didn’t mean to, just got away from me
Go get a can of black spray paint and tag her name on a building that’s on her way home.
by KellyStephen on Feb 14, 2012 10:58 AM PST up reply actions
I may be taking these profiles to seriously, is 10,000 words to many to discuss FedEx:)
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
Now who can argue with that
It's gettin' so a businessman can't expect no return from a fixed fight. Now, if you can't trust a fix, what can you trust?
Wow! That was bad spelling/punctuation. My only excuse is that I just found out I have to have eye surgery, and my eyes are still blurry from the Opthalmologist’s office.
Baseball is a game, and games are supposed to be fun.
I've had cataract surgery in both eyes many years ago
so I’m used to getting dilated at the ophthalmologist. But one time they over did it and I had to spend about 4 hours in a dark room because light was so uncomfortable.
It's gettin' so a businessman can't expect no return from a fixed fight. Now, if you can't trust a fix, what can you trust?
I didn’t get dilated, but the doc put a numbing agent in my eye. Tough drive home.
Baseball is a game, and games are supposed to be fun.
That’s where ivdown should have stepped in.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 1:17 PM PST up reply actions
Texans will have to put the tag on Foster to make sure he doesn’t go anywhere. Right, nolander? RFA tender would be risky.
RFA means they can match any offer I think?
so why not? Franchise tag would be expensive, but they might use it. They have a lot of players they need to resign actually, but I expect them to bring most everyone back with Mario being the wild card
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
What if a team desperately wants Foster and blows everyone’s mind with an offer? Risky for HOU.
by silverwidow on Feb 14, 2012 11:45 AM PST up reply actions
As I understand it (Not very well) if the player is a restricted free agent then the team that has the players rights can offer up a contract that would mean that any team that signs him would have to give up a draft pick. The higher the contract number the higher the compensating draft pick.
the highest you can do now though is get a 1st round
no more 1st and 3rds
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
Eric - Baseball Ref Help
Only because I care, but I’m’ trying to find out the least number of games started by a catcher by the age of 31. My angle is that if AJ Ellis can start over 100 games in his age 31 year, it will be a unique situation given he has started only 62 games by age 30. BRef keeps me down by using a min 250 games when I do career searches.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
age <=30
games <=100 (or whatever number you want)
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 11:23 AM PST up reply actions
I’ve done that of course and got zero hits. I refreshed and started over. Now it works.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:29 AM PST up reply actions
Not the same to be sure, but Gregg Zaun never started more than 77 games at C before he was 33, then started 91, 121, 59, 93 the next four. Ken Huckaby is one dude I can think of who played in only one game before 31, then started 77 games the next year. That would be a crappy comp.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
Tom Wilson kicked in, only 9 games by age 30, started 52 at age 31
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:35 AM PST up reply actions
Could all be a moot point but I think AJ Ellis is going to make history.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:46 AM PST up reply actions
Is Mark Few Mr Clean?
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
I think state screwed me
I checked my status for my california return, they say my 258 dollar balance was transferred to my balance for my 2007 taxes. I worked only 6 months or so in 2007, working part time at minimum wage. Even if somehow I didn’t do my taxes for 2007 for state, which I did, what reason could they have to take out at least 258 dollars for that amount?
I called them to find out and it was a 17-26 minute wait. Awesome.
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
I honestly don’t get state taxes. I’m fairly certain I haven’t had a W2 with much of anything taken out for state tax.
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:31 AM PST up reply actions
I could understand if this was federal
But state taxes are always so low, and if you work part time for half the year at minimum wage how the hell would you owe anything more than 50 dollars?
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
if you were working 40 hours a week at the State minimum (6.50 or so back then,right?) for half a year you still wouldn’t be required to file state taxes. I’d fight it
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:45 AM PST up reply actions
7.50 I believe
Yeah Josie, I’m going to try calling later, they at least do call backs so you don’t have to wait on hold.
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
If they are taking money out for 2007
you could be paying penalties.
by bhsportsguy on Feb 14, 2012 11:34 AM PST up reply actions
You need a minimum
yearly income of about $14,000 to pay CA income tax.
by bhsportsguy on Feb 14, 2012 11:38 AM PST up reply actions
wouldn’t you have been a dependent at that point, anyway?
I pitched to Matt Kemp, and all I got was this stupid earned run.
@maddzgoesrawr @arenafitness @madeleine_arena
I’d rather stay here and talk about Chad Billingsley’s 2012 miracle WHIP
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 12:15 PM PST up reply actions
Do they have three better outfielders than him? Werth, Morse and…
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
LF Morse
CF Werth
RF Harper
Not sure if this would work defensively.
by silverwidow on Feb 14, 2012 11:38 AM PST up reply actions
I think they signed Mike Cameron to give Harper time in AA/AAA but he would probably be better then him if you did not factor in controlled years.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:41 AM PST up reply actions
Cameron was dreadful last year. He’s not really a great option.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
Not for a team who expects to compete. Maybe they trade for Raja Davis before all is said and done. Davis has no spot for Toronto and he’d be fine for them while they wait on Harper.
I guess the crazy guy they traded to the Brewers would work right about now.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:45 AM PST up reply actions
Rick Ankiel on a NRI wouldn’t be any worse than Davis, Bernadina or Cameron.
Might not be any better though.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 11:46 AM PST up reply actions
I guess a platoon of Ankiel / Cameron should work for about 10 weeks? Not like Harper would not have serious growing pains if they stick him out there to start the season.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:48 AM PST up reply actions
In center?
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 11:50 AM PST up reply actions
I heard they would move Werth to center if Harper made the starting lineup.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:53 AM PST up reply actions
I say he finally goes sub-3.00
ERA: 2.90
IP: 210
K/9: 8.50
BB/9: 3.00
Bam.
@TElciram
by Taylor Maricle on Feb 14, 2012 11:39 AM PST reply actions
Yahoo with the Linsanity
This is the main pic on their NBA page, about Warriors and ones that got away. Everybody is crazy:
everybody is crazy, nobody is right
(but me)
this is a great title for a book
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:41 AM PST up reply actions
Been so long on Parish I forgot he was a Warrior
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:42 AM PST up reply actions
The Celtics were like the Big Red Machine to me. As a team I hated them, as individuals I marveled and respected the talent.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:47 AM PST up reply actions
that was the Reds for me, I just hated the Celtics
especially McHale and all the guards
Bird – I enjoyed watching
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:49 AM PST up reply actions
I wanted Danny Ainge to dive headfirst into a wood chipper.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 11:49 AM PST up reply actions
Yeah, he was annoying but I could not hate Dennis Johnson, McHale, or Bird. Parrish was meh.
I hated Rose, was in awe of Bench, liked Perez, thought Joe Morgan was simply amazing.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:54 AM PST up reply actions
I hated DJ since he was a Sonic. Hated everything about him. Hated him until he died, and then I felt stupid. Dude could play, played hard defense, if he was a Laker I would have loved him
McHale seemed like a punk to me and he was too damn good
Parrish was meh – when I was a kid I didnt even think him good. When he performed well it seemed to be inspite of my astute assessment of him
Johnny Bench was the shit and Joe Morgan too. I thought Garvey was way better than Perez, I thought that Rose was an ass, and I hated that we had Bill Russel and they have Davy Conception.
George Foster was like no one on the Dodgers
they were good
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:58 AM PST up reply actions
True Story – When I used to play in Vegas a lot, Gary Nolan, yes that Gary Nolan, was my casino host at the Mirage.
He bro’d me up more than once
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:00 PM PST up reply actions
I hated them all with a fiery passion.
I have come to like, if not love, at least appreciate Larry Bird, and respect McHale/Parish/DJ
I think I was quicker to come around on McHale because I had an instructional video featuring him showing how to shoot a turnaround in the post. I was unstoppable in 7th grade.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 12:06 PM PST up reply actions
Hated McHale when he played
Until the 1987 postseason, when he and several other Celtics fought their way to the Finals with what should have been season-ending injuries. More recently, the guy cracks me up for talking about how good post offense can make the post defender play “7-Eleven defense,” i.e. stand still with the arms straight up like a 7-Eleven clerk being held up.
by The Dude Abides on Feb 14, 2012 12:10 PM PST up reply actions
McHale as a studio guy / announcer is fabulous. Great sense of humor.
There was some story about some rookie from U of Minnesota playing the Celtics and McHale was guarding him. McHale (who went to Minn.) was talking the kid up, saying welcome to the league, etc, and told him he would give him a Gopher-friendly “free shot” the next time down the court.
Kid gets the ball, turns to shoot, and McHale blocks it and the Celtics have a fastbreak. McHale just runs down the court laughing.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 12:13 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Yep, Ainge was my least favorite; a Celtic crybaby
and McHale. Bird was too damned good and goofy to hate (and then seeing his later friendship with Magic made me like him for reals). Parish reminded me of the chief in Cuckoo’s Nest. DJ was annoying but didn’t hate him.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
Fuck em all. Bird included. Fuckin Cutter
It's gettin' so a businessman can't expect no return from a fixed fight. Now, if you can't trust a fix, what can you trust?
by mleadman on Feb 14, 2012 12:58 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I guess he never broke away from that
by The Dude Abides on Feb 14, 2012 1:55 PM PST up reply actions
Nicely done, sir.
This quarry hole…is mine!
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
From wiki
When Chamberlain left the Warriors, owner Franklin Mieuli said: “Chamberlain is not an easy man to love [and] the fans in San Francisco never learned to love him. Wilt is easy to hate […] people came to see him lose.”
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:47 AM PST up reply actions
we loved him:)
From the moment I started watching basketball he was my man. Hell he was the reason I was a Laker fan, he was the reason I hated Alcindor.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:49 AM PST up reply actions
jesus Phil
How can anyone hate Lewis?
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:11 PM PST up reply actions
Hopefully he at least liked Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers/Lakers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants/Warriors country, and damned proud of it.
145 innings
ERA 3.95
FIP: 4.20
X-FIP: 4.20
Basically what Phil said, sometime around August Bills’ fastball velocity took a huge hit and that’s when he really went to hell. There’s been no sign that anyone’s tried to fix it so I’m seeing Bills starting strong then falling apart sometime in the mid season. I’d like to be optimistic here but Chad’s managed to never improve any of his issues and his strengths are starting to fall apart real fast.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
How did the move go
Are you still on the Westside?
by bhsportsguy on Feb 14, 2012 11:42 AM PST up reply actions
Got all my stuff over yesterday, and yeah still in Marina Del Rey, just moved half a mile down the road.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 11:43 AM PST up reply actions
Nope, just had massive drama with my landlord so I was forced to move.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 11:55 AM PST up reply actions
I hope he left dog poop, or a dead mackerel, or a box of mice, hidden in the walls
good stories are better than being a good person
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:04 PM PST up reply actions
I’m going to prank them really hard in court.
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 12:05 PM PST up reply actions
an expensive dish served cold is always the tastiest
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:06 PM PST up reply actions
“You aren’t allowed to demolish part of my apartment without telling us” versus “Yes I am.”
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 12:04 PM PST up reply actions
I'm optimistic
relatively…
202 IP, 3.17 ERA, 7.97 K/9, 3.35 BB/9.
I’m wishing a K/BB of >3 but i think that is too much to wish for
I think Rolling Stone called that a top 10 all-time album.
by silverwidow on Feb 14, 2012 11:49 AM PST up reply actions
not as good as the foo fighters obviously, but you know
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:49 AM PST up reply actions
that album doesn’t need to be validated by a rag like rolling stone
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:51 AM PST up reply actions
What do you consider the authority on the subject?
by silverwidow on Feb 14, 2012 11:52 AM PST up reply actions
dude
who sold more albums?
all I need to know
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:54 AM PST up reply actions
although I have to admit is grohl or cobain the better musician
made for fun conversation with a couple of my bros last night
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
did I miss that? Thank god. They’re both terrible.
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:55 AM PST up reply actions
I just distinguish between songwriter and musician. Cobain is famous for one and not the other
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 11:59 AM PST up reply actions
Anyone who’s heard the acoustic version of Everlong would never say he’s a bad musician, I just don’t think the Foo Fighters are groundbreaking, which makes them forgettable
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 12:08 PM PST up reply actions
thats a far cry from terrible!
but I understand your view point
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
Ms. Becker used hyperbole? ¡No me digas!
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 12:30 PM PST up reply actions
I don’t know if grunge is really the musical genre in which a lead/solo guitarist could show off their chops. At some point you have to start looking at metal, glam rock, and progressive to see truly purely skilled musician.
Or, Matt Bellamy.
I pitched to Matt Kemp, and all I got was this stupid earned run.
@maddzgoesrawr @arenafitness @madeleine_arena
Chops are what I have for dinner
I want to know album sales and the rest is clear to me
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:18 PM PST up reply actions
The ladies at work have put together a Valentine Tea Party. I’ve been invited. I made gingerbread brownies who have lost various limbs during the process. I sprinkled melted white chocolate to salve the wounds. They are not pretty. I will be mocked. They will feel superior. It will all be good.
If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.
by meercatjohn on Feb 14, 2012 11:51 AM PST up reply actions
Kenny Chesney working on the Cheesy
like it
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 11:53 AM PST up reply actions
what do you call a group of bulls masturbating in a field?
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:59 PM PST up reply actions
I’ve seen Stroganoff as steak with a dollop of sour cream on top, and I’ve seen the Lawry’s packet version where it’s more of a hippie mush. I think I prefer hippie mush.
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 1:03 PM PST up reply actions
I get those a decent amount
But they’re so hard to cook with a microwave, they always come out bad. The Tamales cook easier.
@TElciram
by Taylor Maricle on Feb 14, 2012 12:43 PM PST up reply actions
wrap in paper towel cook 1 minute
flip, cook 1 more minute, devour
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
When they're frozen it's really hard to defrost them with my microwave.
@TElciram
by Taylor Maricle on Feb 14, 2012 1:00 PM PST up reply actions
shrug
I don’t bother with the defrost setting, i just nuke em
Watch me all in flames, on a butterfly I ride
My roommate's fridge sucks.
There’s always frost buildup.
@TElciram
by Taylor Maricle on Feb 14, 2012 1:09 PM PST up reply actions
You could take out the amount you intend to use and let them defrost in your refrigerator. Just a thought.
I don't think ahead!
I’m a college student!
@TElciram
by Taylor Maricle on Feb 14, 2012 1:10 PM PST up reply actions
Closure on my neighbors illegal no parking signs 2 weeks ago....
LA City mailed everyone on the street a letter saying take down the signs within 48 hours or everyone gets fined. With minimal discussion the signs came down. I win.
someday I should tell you the story of my dad leading an illegal tree chopping campaign in our cul-de-sac
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 12:06 PM PST up reply actions
Did Danny Ainge almost end up in the chipper?
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 12:07 PM PST up reply actions
first rule of improv, never say “no”
I often remind people of that
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 1:01 PM PST up reply actions
When I was in a Condo Association
One officer decided to cut down all the perimeter trees on the lot. We nearly hung him.
It's gettin' so a businessman can't expect no return from a fixed fight. Now, if you can't trust a fix, what can you trust?
wait, i'm not quite sure what was the problem before
People in your neighborhood were putting up no parking signs at their houses?
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
yes.
resident parking only you will be towed type of signs affixed to telephone poles on the public street. there is one crazy lady and a bunch of idiot followers on the other side of the street.
the “or you will be towed” part reminds me of Arrested Development’s “You should threaten to sue. It’s free if it’s only a threat”
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 12:40 PM PST up reply actions
I unfollowed someone on Twitter yesterday just because they retweeted Rovell. Felt right.
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 have a strict policy on that re:Bleacher Report
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 12:41 PM PST up reply actions
Yep, though I'm amazed and pleased at how few people I follow ever RT BR
to be fair, BR is just shitty. Darren Rovell is loathesome.
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 get my WWE news and updates on there
My favorite parts are when they do articles on the Attitude ERA, so I can relieve when wrestling was actually cool and fun for me.
TBLA 2011 Postseason Prediction Champion
what a jackass
Bernie Brewer seems to be making a move on an unsuspecting lass.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 12:22 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
is he going to move the astro next year?
by delias man on Feb 14, 2012 12:24 PM PST up reply actions 10 recs
I don’t like to demand a lot of things, but damnit this better be green.
by Eric Stephen on Feb 14, 2012 12:28 PM PST up reply actions
I have a really unfortunate tattoo design, but I also don’t have a lot of money, how do I solve this problem?
Minor League Central @mlcentral @andrewngrant
by regfairfield on Feb 14, 2012 12:32 PM PST up reply actions
Also, when did the Expos have an Eagle for a mascot? That is definitely not Youppi!
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
But he’s wearing Expos swag. If he was going to go that route, he should have just used Youppi.
"It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great."
It’s obviously his own drawing, with a random mix of old and new. Which I’m against. He missed a golden opportunity to include the Crazy Crab!
by Josie Becker on Feb 14, 2012 1:04 PM PST up reply actions
Ben Wallace will play in his 1,055th career game tonight, breaking the NBA record for most games played by an undrafted player.
Pretty cool.
Also, fuck the 2004 Pistons.
so shamed
as you can tell from my posting volume, after a kick ass early morning, by late AM productivity at work has lagged
so I trudge off to lunch for a reset, come back re-invigorated, filled with piss an vinegar ready to start on my board slides.
I order the Frenchie, a favorite sandwich of mine at the place across the street, thinking I will have a bite and enjoy reading my mag. Lo and behold, the nice bartender sets me up “You can’t have a Frenchy just drinking water, you need a glass of wine with that”
Me, dumb smile, hmmm she is kinda pretty, I wouldn’t date her when I was her age, but as an older gent, I can see she has some real beauty. “What should I be drinking?”
Her “Let me pour you a few tastes”
Me – drink, drink, drink “I like this, what is this?”
Her “blah, blah, blah”
Me “Great, take it”
Now here I am 45 minutes later, no closer to anything, except maybe to god
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 1:07 PM PST reply actions 5 recs
For those of you that have to drive on the west side of LA tomorrow
http://totaltrafficla.com/2012/02/13/obama-traffic-street-closures-in-los-angeles-corona-del-mar-for-februrary-15-16-2012/23105
Mr. President will be in the area. This is your traffic advisory. Plan ahead, don’t get stuck like me trying to get to kickball in the middle of this.
He is attending breakfast at the home of Jeff and Nancy Stack
Can you imagine the stress at the Stack household right now?
I can see it all as a movie, casting call
Jeff successful, kind, disinterested, slightly bumbling
Nancy, uptight, hair pulled back, social riser, wanting every thing to be perfect
Son – Young republican, hates the president, Alex P Keaton x 3, banging the Latina house maid
Daughter – 16 and punk rock, if punk rock was still a thing. Looks rough by innocent, a daddy’s girl without enough attention
Maid – super hot, with a tattoo of Che on her ass.
Dog, lovable big, hairy, mischievous, with a talent for stealing food and a habit for jumping on people and licking faces
Lets make this sucker
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 1:25 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
and SHE HAS A CRUSH ON THE PREZ with a plan to have him be her first
oh, so gooood
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 1:34 PM PST up reply actions
ESPN to air ‘The Announcement,’ a documentary about Magic Johnson, on March 11 at 6pm. You bet your ass I will be watching.
what can you possibly hope to win, if the stakes are your ass
by Hollywood Joe on Feb 14, 2012 1:25 PM PST up reply actions
3.28 ERA, 200 IP, 185 K, 67 BB
"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
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