GrogHeads Forum

IRL (In Real Life) => Sports => Topic started by: MetalDog on February 02, 2015, 07:49:51 PM

Title: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 02, 2015, 07:49:51 PM
As is fitting for the first post of the season, below are the reporting dates for all 30 Major League teams.  The first date is when pitchers and catchers report, the second is the first full squad workout.  PLAY BALL!!


MLB SPRING TRAINING REPORT DATES

• Arizona Diamondbacks: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• Atlanta Braves: Feb. 20, Feb. 26

• Baltimore Orioles: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• Boston Red Sox: Feb. 20, Feb. 25

• Chicago Cubs: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• Chicago White Sox: Feb. 19, Feb. 24

• Cincinnati Reds: Feb. 18, Feb. 24

• Cleveland Indians: Feb. 18, Feb. 24

• Colorado Rockies: Feb. 20, Feb. 27

• Detroit Tigers: Feb. 19, Feb. 24

• Houston Astros: Feb. 20, Feb. 25

• Kansas City Royals: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• Los Angeles Angels: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• Los Angeles Dodgers: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• Miami Marlins: Feb. 20, Feb. 25

• Milwaukee Brewers: Feb. 20, Feb. 26

• Minnesota Twins: Feb. 22, Feb. 28

• New York Mets: Feb. 19, Feb. 26

• New York Yankees: Feb. 20, Feb. 26

• Oakland Athletics: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• Philadelphia Phillies: Feb. 18, Feb. 24

• Pittsburgh Pirates: Feb. 18, Feb. 24

• St. Louis Cardinals: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• San Diego Padres: Feb. 19, Feb. 25

• San Francisco Giants: Feb. 18, Feb. 24

• Seattle Mariners: Feb. 20, Feb. 25

• Tampa Bay Rays: Feb. 21, Feb. 27

• Texas Rangers: Feb. 20, Feb. 26

• Toronto Blue Jays: Feb. 22, Feb. 27

• Washington Nationals: Feb. 19, Feb. 25
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on February 02, 2015, 08:21:27 PM


jump to 1:05

damn youtube embed won't let me specify a start time
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on February 02, 2015, 08:38:24 PM
Well I for one am looking forward to another .500 season from the Twins.  I guess these means I need to get off my ass and look at the fantasy league.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 02, 2015, 08:59:18 PM
.500 for the Twins would be a step up!  And just think, your staff is being led by a Yankee castoff.  How does that make you feel?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on February 02, 2015, 09:33:41 PM
Well I like him better then when Chuck Knobslobber played in pinstripes.

I also feel pretty good it didn't take the Twins hundreds of millions in player salary to reach .500 unlike the Bronx Moneybags.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: OJsDad on February 02, 2015, 09:59:46 PM
Yea, baseball season is almost here!!  I can't wai......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 02, 2015, 10:44:08 PM
Quote from: Bison on February 02, 2015, 09:33:41 PM
Well I like him better then when Chuck Knobslobber played in pinstripes.

I also feel pretty good it didn't take the Twins hundreds of millions in player salary to reach .500 unlike the Bronx Moneybags.

It's a well known fact that Carl Pohlad has more money than the Steinbrenners.  The fact that he won't come off his billions, with a B, sounds like sour grapes on your part.  And I always thought much better of you than that.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on February 02, 2015, 11:27:30 PM
No sour grapes here.  I've long come to accept the fact that Pohlad is a crappy owner when it comes to keeping talent in Minnesota.  I just cannot stand the Yankees, Red Socks, and few other teams and their collective elitist fan bases.  I had to listen to it over Thanksgiving.  Good lord you'd think nothing exists in baseball on the other side of the Hudson River. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 03, 2015, 07:03:45 AM
I can understand envy of the winners.  I can even understand fatigue at having Boston and New York shoved down your throat by ESPN and the national media.  I'd hate those teams, too, if I didn't root for them.  What I don't get is the concept of trashing a team because they spend money.  It's not like that formula works or anything.  You can't BUY a pennant.  Everyone still has to perform.  I just think it's sour grapes when you play the money card.  You'd love it if your guys spend money.  And if they don't, then, hop on the bandwagon of the Yankees.  There's always room for more :)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on February 04, 2015, 11:30:27 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 03, 2015, 07:03:45 AM
You'd love it if your guys spend money.  And if they don't, then, hop on the bandwagon of the Yankees.  There's always room for more :)

Sure of course I'd love to see good players stay in Minnesota.  Frankly I think MLB contracts or over inflated.  I can get the several million a year, but the $20+ million per season just seem freaking absurd.  Don't get me wrong.  Good for those guys that the economics of baseball can provide those types of contracts.

I will never be a Yankees or Red Sox fan.  I love my small market teams like the Twins and Royals.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 09, 2015, 08:49:51 PM
Rob Manfred, the new commissioner of MLB, is telling Hall of Fame voters,

Newly-appointed commissioner Rob Manfred recently encouraged the voting members of the Baseball Writers' Association of America not to speculate about whether certain Hall-of-Fame candidates used performance-enhancing drugs in the absence of "credible evidence."

"I think it's unfair," Manfred told ESPN's Jayson Stark on Thursday, "for people to surmise that Player A did X, Y or Z, absent a positive test, or proof that we produced in an investigation, or whatever. I just think it runs contrary to a very fundamental notion in our society, that you're innocent until somebody proves you're guilty."


http://www.thescore.com/news/695732


My sentiment is exactly what I put in BOLD, if an investigation proves it, then hold it against the player.  That being the case, how about making the Mitchell report available so we can say, once and for all, who did, and who didn't, that baseball knew about?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: OJsDad on February 12, 2015, 10:03:43 PM
Stephen A Smiths take on allowing Pete Rose on the HOF ballot and back into Baseball.

http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=12314114
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 12, 2015, 10:14:42 PM
Stephen A. usually works my last nerve, but, I have to give it to him...he's right.  We let all the cheaters back in and around the game.  None that I remember ever saying they were sorry.  And Pete can't get on the ballot?  Be allowed to be a broadcaster or work in someones front office?  It's time to give Pete a break.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on February 12, 2015, 10:36:25 PM
My thoughts on Pete Rose:
He's banned for life, right?  Put him in the Hall of Fame the day after he dies, and prominently mention that he was banned for gambling.  His on-field accomplishments belong in the hall, but he does not deserve to enjoy a single day of being a Hall of Famer.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 12, 2015, 11:20:39 PM
Why is gambling worse than steroids?  And yes, they won't put any of the steroid cheaters in the Hall either, so I get that, but, what makes them able to continue to play and be eligible for the ballot?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on February 12, 2015, 11:24:17 PM
Gambling there's a potential motivation for you to lose.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 13, 2015, 07:06:28 AM
Agreed, but both actions are detrimental to the game.  They skew the results.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on February 13, 2015, 01:17:08 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 12, 2015, 11:20:39 PM
Why is gambling worse than steroids? 

because the warning against it and the punishment have been prominently posted in every Major League clubhouse for more than 60 years and that every year all player and coaches must attend a meeting where it is again explained and they sing off on attending?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: OJsDad on February 13, 2015, 01:52:49 PM
For baseball, we're told that the stats are the game.  So individuals taking drugs to improve their game have gotten their names into the record when they were slightly above average. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on February 13, 2015, 02:39:13 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 13, 2015, 01:52:49 PM
For baseball, we're told that the stats are the game.  So individuals taking drugs to improve their game have gotten their names into the record when they were slightly above average.

While stats count there are no statistical guidelines. To be enshrined in the Hall of Fame the voters must consider other things.

"Hitting 500 homers, collecting 3,000 hits, or winning 300 games does not produce an automatic ticket to Cooperstown. In fact, there is no statistical guideline. Voting baseball writers are instructed to judge each candidate on ability, integrity, sportsmanship, character, and contribution to the team or teams on which he played -- as well as to baseball in general."

http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/baseball-hall-of-fame2.htm
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on February 13, 2015, 08:40:23 PM
I'd personally support taking reporters with no actual experience or ability to play the game out of the business of deciding who goes into the hall of fame. 

Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 14, 2015, 12:13:35 AM
Maybe you guys already knew this, hell, I might have known and forgotten, but, the Hall isn't run by MLB.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on February 14, 2015, 12:54:33 AM
Is the World Series on NBC this year?  I just need to know if I have to practice my muting Bob Doucheface Costas skills over the summer.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 14, 2015, 09:53:20 AM
It's on Fox.  For the 16th year in a row.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on February 14, 2015, 06:13:48 PM
Wonderful. So we get to look forward to Joe Buck again.  >:(
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 15, 2015, 01:07:28 AM
At least McCarver is gone.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 17, 2015, 09:28:46 PM
Any of you gentlemen follow Sabremetrics?  I'm delving in to some of it right now and it's frying my brain.  WAR.  FIP.  wOBA.  And that's the easy stuff.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on February 22, 2015, 07:20:38 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 17, 2015, 09:28:46 PM
Any of you gentlemen follow Sabremetrics?  I'm delving in to some of it right now and it's frying my brain.  WAR.  FIP.  wOBA.  And that's the easy stuff.

I kinda sorta understand some of it. A lot of it gives me a headache...particularly when different groups have different versions of the same stat that take different factors into account.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on February 23, 2015, 08:18:58 AM
Sabremetrics are ok but a little over rated I think. Baseball is more about historical statistics than this years stats. In general players will do what they have historically done, until the don't that is :)

The difference between hitting .250 and .290 is about 25 hits over the course of a season (assuming 600 AB), or about 1 per week. You can't predict when those hits will come, maybe a guy who normally hits .250 goes 5 for 5 in a couple of blowouts during the season or starts off super hot then hit like history says he should. He will look like a better player during the year than a historical .290 hitter who started off slow but will most likely finish on a tear. Players who have hit .250 for 4-5 years in a row don't generally become .300 hitters. They may do it once but it would be a fluke. Same with walks, if you have a good eye you have a good eye, you don't suddenly develop one 1/2 way through your career.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 23, 2015, 07:54:43 PM
I am actually trying to get a handle on it so I can bet baseball on daily fantasy sports leagues, like FanDuel or Draft Kings.  The gubmint says it is legal because it is a skill, not a bet, so, here I go!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on February 23, 2015, 10:00:14 PM
I love baseball.   I have know idea how they come up with some of the voodoo math statics they throw out.  It just pisses me off when Buck and McCarver use it to sound all freaking smart.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on February 23, 2015, 10:53:04 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 23, 2015, 07:54:43 PM
I am actually trying to get a handle on it so I can bet baseball on daily fantasy sports leagues, like FanDuel or Draft Kings.  The gubmint says it is legal because it is a skill, not a bet, so, here I go!

Good luck on that.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 23, 2015, 11:38:34 PM
Quote from: Marty Ward on February 23, 2015, 10:53:04 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 23, 2015, 07:54:43 PM
I am actually trying to get a handle on it so I can bet baseball on daily fantasy sports leagues, like FanDuel or Draft Kings.  The gubmint says it is legal because it is a skill, not a bet, so, here I go!

Good luck on that.

Thank you, sir!  I bombed pretty spectacularly last spring and gave up.  Didn't do as badly in football.  Played both with a nut of $50 and ended up with about $10.  Did I lose?  Sure, but, I didn't have to put any more in and I had fun doing it.

Quote from: Bison on February 23, 2015, 10:00:14 PM
I love baseball.   I have know idea how they come up with some of the voodoo math statics they throw out.  It just pisses me off when Buck and McCarver use it to sound all freaking smart.

McCarver is retired now (thank God!!!!!) and you only have to listen to Buck if you choose to.  Awesome glossary of Sabermetric definitions below:

http://www.fangraphs.com/library/
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on February 24, 2015, 06:23:49 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 23, 2015, 11:38:34 PM
Played both with a nut of $50 and ended up with about $10.  Did I lose?  Sure, but, I didn't have to put any more in and I had fun doing it.

That's not losing.  That's paying $40 to have fun.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 24, 2015, 06:57:00 AM
It's also not winning.  But I've paid forty bucks for worse things and have gotten far less pleasure out of them.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on February 24, 2015, 08:42:04 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 23, 2015, 11:38:34 PM
Quote from: Marty Ward on February 23, 2015, 10:53:04 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 23, 2015, 07:54:43 PM
I am actually trying to get a handle on it so I can bet baseball on daily fantasy sports leagues, like FanDuel or Draft Kings.  The gubmint says it is legal because it is a skill, not a bet, so, here I go!

Good luck on that.

Thank you, sir!  I bombed pretty spectacularly last spring and gave up.  Didn't do as badly in football.  Played both with a nut of $50 and ended up with about $10.  Did I lose?  Sure, but, I didn't have to put any more in and I had fun doing it.


Do you play heads up? I looked at their football game and there were hundreds, even thousands, of people in each tournament. Only way I would win it was with blind luck.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on February 24, 2015, 08:42:46 AM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on February 24, 2015, 06:23:49 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 23, 2015, 11:38:34 PM
Played both with a nut of $50 and ended up with about $10.  Did I lose?  Sure, but, I didn't have to put any more in and I had fun doing it.

That's not losing.  That's paying $40 to have fun.

That's how I look at my trips to the casino, how long does it take me to lose. Sometimes it's cheaper than a movie! :)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on February 24, 2015, 07:26:13 PM
Marty, there are several variations you can play.  I only concentrated on the one day fantasy league.  Basically, it's a snapshot of that days performances by the team you pick (using a x $ amount cap to pick your players) compared against everyone else that joined the league for that day.  I finished in the top 2 or 3 thousand once or twice.  Paid like eight bucks or something.  But, the buy in was only a dollar, so, I think I did fairly well.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on February 25, 2015, 09:04:51 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 24, 2015, 07:26:13 PM
Marty, there are several variations you can play.  I only concentrated on the one day fantasy league.  Basically, it's a snapshot of that days performances by the team you pick (using a x $ amount cap to pick your players) compared against everyone else that joined the league for that day.  I finished in the top 2 or 3 thousand once or twice.  Paid like eight bucks or something.  But, the buy in was only a dollar, so, I think I did fairly well.
Well good luck. I guess at that price you only need to cash once to pay for the season.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 10, 2015, 01:40:33 PM
And Marcus Stroman is out for the year with a torn ACL suffered during a stupid bunt drill.

Blue Jay fans get to stop kidding themselves about having a chance much earlier this year!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on March 10, 2015, 11:05:50 PM
That blows chunks, man.  I always dig it when the Blue Jays are good.  It's better than the Orioles.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on March 11, 2015, 08:51:57 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on March 10, 2015, 11:05:50 PM
That blows chunks, man.  I always dig it when the Blue Jays are good.  It's better than the Orioles.

Hey now, don't dis da Birds!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on March 11, 2015, 06:32:46 PM
The O's were good when I was growing up.  They were one of the class acts in the AL East.  Hence, as a Yankee fan, I prefer they do less well than my guys ;)  As for the Jays, I always felt bad for Dave Stieb pitching his A$$ off and getting nowhere.  And they sucked for so very long that I was glad to see them finally get good. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on March 11, 2015, 07:53:51 PM
good article here

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2377389-life-after-the-trade-15-years-later-fatherhood-trumps-fame-for-ken-griffey-jr
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on March 11, 2015, 08:19:44 PM
I always thought Junior was a great baseball player.  I felt bad for him when things went south in Cincy.  I heard much later on, from a couple places, that he was a bad dude, but, I never could believe it.  Sounds like I was right :)  Sucks that they're wearing Seahawks jerseys though.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 12, 2015, 01:17:10 PM
Yep, I was always a Griffey fan as well. That turf in the Kingdome absolutely wrecked his legs the same as the Olympic Stadium turf did with Andre Dawson.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on April 06, 2015, 09:50:50 AM
Watched the season opener last night between the Cardinals and the Cubs.  I really enjoyed the game with Curt Schilling and John Kruk doing the broadcast.  The Cubs are not going to be good again this year.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on April 06, 2015, 11:34:17 AM
Quote from: Bison on April 06, 2015, 09:50:50 AM
Watched the season opener last night between the Cardinals and the Cubs.  I really enjoyed the game with Curt Schilling and John Kruk doing the broadcast.  The Cubs are not going to be good again this year.

They have some wicked prospect in their system though. They could be a surprise this year. Then again they are the Cubs.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 06, 2015, 01:24:23 PM
They might have a shot at third. It's not like the Brewers or Reds look particularly awesome this year.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on April 06, 2015, 01:37:07 PM
I don't think the cubs have the offense.  The reds have some strong offensive potential.   I expect the the brewers to return to the basement.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on April 06, 2015, 07:23:21 PM
The Brewers will fall flat with their pitching.  The Reds will have days they hit their way to wins and days where the pitching leads.  Don't know if there will be enough of either.  St. Louis will again be the class of the division.  They have the arms, the defense and the bats to do the damage.  That leaves Chicago and Pittsburgh to battle for second and one or both of the Wild Cards.  I would trust Chicago before Pittsburgh.  As much as I hate the AL East pedigrees of the primaries, Joe Maddon and Theo Epstein, I saw what they could do and I think it bodes well for the Cubs.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 06, 2015, 09:06:23 PM
Man, I think the Pirates have a great team. Absolutely badass young outfield, their infielders and pitchers are moving up now...sadly, they're stuck in a division with the unstoppable baseball Terminator known as the St. Louis Cardinals.

I like the direction that the Cubs are moving in, but I think there's a pretty significant drop from St. Louis and the Pirates before you reach the rest of the NL Central.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on April 08, 2015, 11:22:01 AM
Don't you just love it when your closer comes in, pitches 1/3 of an inning and gives up 4 runs. :)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on April 24, 2015, 10:12:29 PM
Yes, it's April 24th, but, the Houston Astros are in first place.  Then again, so are the Mets.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on April 25, 2015, 06:22:09 AM
The Mets are much more likely to stay there.

Here's how far I've written off the Astros, as being a lifelong fan since 1980:  Until you posted that, I had no idea where they were in the standing this year.

Once Bud shipped them to the AL to protect his precious Brewers, I gave up on baseball as a league.  I still play in the fantasy league here to keep the numbers up, but I honestly don't give 2 shits about MLB anymore, and it is very, very rare that it's ever on our TV.  My son can name maybe 5 baseball players.  He can name 5 members of Chelsea FC in London off the top of his head.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on April 25, 2015, 07:27:00 AM
Well it's the opposite for me.  Baseball is about the only sport I watch anymore.  I always have the Royals game on in the background TV or radio.  I must admit one of my secret pleasures in life is listening to AM radio broadcasts of baseball games.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on April 25, 2015, 08:32:42 AM
I wish I understood the hate for baseball.  It's like the hate atheists have for deists.  Doesn't make any sense to me.

Day games during the week are AWESOME!  Some baseball to listen to while I work.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on April 25, 2015, 08:45:38 AM
I don't hate the sport of baseball.  I hate what MLB/Bud did to the Astros
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on April 25, 2015, 11:40:04 AM
What he did evened out the leagues so that divisions would all be equal.  That he took Houston makes no difference to me.  As a matter of fact, as long as it wasn't a team that's been around for 100 years, I don't care WHICH one he moved. 

I really think baseball should go much further than they do.  Shorten the season.  Break it in to halves so teams that are out have a fresh start for the second half.  I think they should do something to improve the immediacy of the game.  The reason football is king is because they play one game, once a week, and there's only sixteen in a season.  Baseball can have as many as seven a week.  Make it so that series wins count.  That's what your playoffs are, series.  So, set the schedules so that the series played each week count for some overarching playoff decider.  And I wish people would quit bitching about length of game.  People that like baseball enough to watch it on tv aren't interested in how long it takes to finish.  Everyone else is just piling on.  There's more, but, I am hoping Rob Manfred will light a fire under these old guys asses and get some changes made!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on April 25, 2015, 01:46:05 PM
I know *why* he did it. I don't like that he did it to a team that had been in the NL since their inception, unlike the Brewers
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on April 25, 2015, 02:34:12 PM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on April 25, 2015, 01:46:05 PM
I know *why* he did it. I don't like that he did it to a team that had been in the NL since their inception, unlike the Brewers

I think the only team they could have moved that wasn't in the league it was created in was the Brewers.

Since the Brewers had changed divisions twice in the AL, thereby becoming the only team to have been in every division in the league, AND had also changed leagues you can't blame baseball for not moving them again. So whoever they moved would have been an NL team since it's inception.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on April 25, 2015, 07:38:17 PM
Tough shit, then.  Bud made moving the Astros a precondition of McLane selling out to Crane.  Because McLane wanted out so bad, he took it.  Bud was protecting his own family investment at the expense of the first team he could screw over, and the Astros let him.  Fuck that guy.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on April 25, 2015, 08:14:38 PM
You shouldn't mince words, Brant.  Tell us how you REALLY feel!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on April 26, 2015, 10:22:18 AM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on April 25, 2015, 07:38:17 PM
Tough shit, then.  Bud made moving the Astros a precondition of McLane selling out to Crane.  Because McLane wanted out so bad, he took it.  Bud was protecting his own family investment at the expense of the first team he could screw over, and the Astros let him.  Fuck that guy.


Well maybe the Astros will have better luck in the AL.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on April 26, 2015, 01:40:20 PM
Which brings me back to what started all this...the Astros are in first place.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on April 26, 2015, 02:40:29 PM
I just want the Astros to go retro and start wearing their uniforms from the 80's again.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on April 26, 2015, 02:54:42 PM
I was under the impression those eyesores were buried in the same landfill as those Atari E.T. cartridges...no?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on April 30, 2015, 10:12:39 PM
Duffy pitched a beauty of a game tonight for The Royals against Detroit.  A starting pitcher is the one position I can see the royals making a move to get.  The staff just isn't getting the innings they did last year.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on June 17, 2015, 06:55:29 AM
Best twitter jokes about Cards hacking the Astros.  Some of these are pretty funny...

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/the-best-twitter-jokes-about-the-cardinals-allegedly-hacking-the-astros-172428320.html
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on August 21, 2015, 06:29:30 AM
some of these are pretty clever

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/mlb-power-rankings--the-wild-ride-of-the-cubs-154424542.html
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on August 21, 2015, 11:39:52 PM
The Cubs, Mets, Blue Jays and Astros are all currently playoff teams. WHAT BIZARRO UNIVERSE IS THIS?!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on August 21, 2015, 11:43:14 PM
1998?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 02, 2015, 12:55:29 AM
Well, as the Jays continue their amazing run, The Washington Post has done a really good 3 part series on what happened to the Nationals. Man oh man, Matt Williams lost that locker room long ago.

Part 1 : https://goo.gl/SSu1Iq

2 : https://goo.gl/MkLypD

3 :  https://goo.gl/EaxzmX

Also, man oh man is that franchise in a world of sh*t heading in to the off season.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 02, 2015, 05:26:32 AM
Meanwhile, the Astros have shown that they haven't forgotten how to lose, even though it actually matters right now
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 03, 2015, 01:22:22 AM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on October 02, 2015, 05:26:32 AM
Meanwhile, the Astros have shown that they haven't forgotten how to lose, even though it actually matters right now

It sucks for this year, but they're young. Honestly, they're about a mile ahead of where they were supposed to be, and they have a pile of prospects still coming along. If some of their kid pitchers start hitting the level that their young bats have...yikes.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 06, 2015, 10:18:15 PM
  Go ASTROS! 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 06, 2015, 11:45:48 PM
Boooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

Great performance by Keuchel.  He got a little help from the ump and a LOT more from his catcher.  I hate the Royals from way back.  The Blue Jays took the division from us and the Rangers left Florida for Arizona, so, I guess that leaves


  Go ASTROS! 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 07, 2015, 01:31:39 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sports-logos-screensavers.com%2Fuser%2FKansas_City_Royals.jpg&hash=4d094a5a2e0d84aab4b5c4d17254336d9d9813d3)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 07, 2015, 02:19:04 PM
Hoping for a Blue Jays-Astros ALCS.  :D
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: endfire79 on October 07, 2015, 10:56:19 PM
Wow, I find it hard for me to say this but GO JAYS!!!  ...eh!


(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ftoronto.bluejays.mlb.com%2Fmlb%2Fimages%2Fteam_logos%2Fsocial_media%2Fog_1200x630_image%2Ftor_1200x630.jpg&hash=54372a5a9dfad49f6aa5ba16a6992fcd65c8287c)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 07, 2015, 11:49:06 PM
Awesome job by Arrieta!  That guy is just insane!!  Never had any reason to pull for the Cubs.  And now, with Jon Lester (and his stink of Red Sox), Theo Epstein (MORE Red Sox stink) and Joe Maddon (and HIS Tampa smell), I have even less.  But, I like the kids they have playing for them.  Plus, it's been a hundred and six years, haven't they suffered enough?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 08, 2015, 05:24:10 AM
You know who is rooting for the Cubs?  Fox.  Can you imagine the ratings?

Which means they'll get KC-St Louis.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 08, 2015, 05:46:17 AM
That'd be a GREAT matchup from baseball fans perspective!  Not so much from Joe Average's viewpoint.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 09, 2015, 05:44:29 AM
for historical perspective, the last time the Cubs won the World Series, the Ottoman Empire was still 15 years from falling apart.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 09, 2015, 11:20:38 PM
Dear Blue Jays batters,

If you could collectively stop swinging for the fences every damn time you're at bat, that'd be great.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 10, 2015, 12:05:35 AM
Works pretty good for Texas....
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 10, 2015, 03:53:58 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 10, 2015, 12:05:35 AM
Works pretty good for Texas....

Yeah, but they aren't swinging from their heels with every at bat. Neither were Donaldson and Bautista when they did hit their shots...they were just making good swings. Watching Russell Martin take his cuts this series is painful. Apparently he's convinced himself that he's a 60 home run a year hitter who should try to go yard every time he takes a swing. The whole bottom of the order seems convinced that they're clones of Chris Davis.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 10, 2015, 07:08:03 PM
They got the strike out part down.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 12, 2015, 04:15:11 PM
Good Lord it only took being down by 4 with 6 outs left before the season's over for the Royals bats to finally wakeup this series.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 12, 2015, 04:25:05 PM
yeah, Houston blew it.  Should've been making travel plans for Dallas by now.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 12, 2015, 04:29:08 PM
Kauffman Stadium is going to be rocking on Wednesday night.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 13, 2015, 05:55:36 PM
Watching the Cubs and Cards game and I can only think of two things.  1. I hate Chicago and hope they are perpetual losers.  It makes a good storyline every year.  2.  MLB needs to have a class on how to properly wear a fucking baseball cap.  You should be kicked out of the game if your cap is canted off to one side with a straight brim. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 13, 2015, 06:08:53 PM
Quote from: Bison on October 13, 2015, 05:55:36 PMYou should be kicked out of the game if your cap is canted off to one side with a straight brim. 

Tell that to this guy (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=1873839)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 13, 2015, 06:27:02 PM
Good story, but not seeing the need to wear your hat wrong.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 13, 2015, 06:47:38 PM
it was balancing the light coming in through the bad eye.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 13, 2015, 07:40:06 PM
Wearing your uniform improperly, except for some sort of protection, should get you thrown out of the game, and...






































FUCK YEAH THE CARDINALS LOST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 13, 2015, 08:36:41 PM
I like the Cardinals as an organization over all.  Great upper management and great fans.  They are one of the few teams that I don't mind seeing in the playoffs year in and year out. 

Anyway I think the Cubs might be in trouble going forward if their HR power fades at all.  I saw a stat in the 7 or 8th inning today that of the Cubs 20 runs in the series 15 of them were from HR.  That is just an insane number that I think will be hard for them to keep up through out the playoffs.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Staggerwing on October 13, 2015, 09:25:25 PM
Quote from: Bison on October 13, 2015, 06:27:02 PM
Good story, but not seeing the need to wear your hat wrong.

Folks who have good vision in only one eye often turn their faces to the side so that the eye with the best vision is pointed towards you, centering you in their functional visual field. Moving one's hat to cover that eye means that light spilling in from the sides will seem balanced on both sides of their effective peripheral awareness. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 13, 2015, 10:00:05 PM
The Cardinals have a great organization and appear to do things the right way.  The guy who turned Houston around comes from the St. Louis front office.  And their fans are the best in baseball.  Unfortunately, even though it's still not even close, St. Louis is closest to the Yanks in Championships and therefore, are the enemy.  On top of that, my ex-wife and all her family are Cards fans.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 13, 2015, 10:02:31 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on October 13, 2015, 09:25:25 PM
Quote from: Bison on October 13, 2015, 06:27:02 PM
Good story, but not seeing the need to wear your hat wrong.

Folks who have good vision in only one eye often turn their faces to the side so that the eye with the best vision is pointed towards you, centering you in their functional visual field. Moving one's hat to cover that eye means that light spilling in from the sides will seem balanced on both sides of their effective peripheral awareness.

I get it but that doesn't explain all of the other idiots.  And honestly what about a pirate patch?  That would be intimidating as hell.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 13, 2015, 10:03:23 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 13, 2015, 10:00:05 PMThe guy who turned Houston around comes from the St. Louis front office. 

He's only been there a year.  They've been drafting high for a decade.  Odds are decent they'd get at least 2-3 decent players out of all those picks.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 13, 2015, 10:09:01 PM
Houston has some good young talent. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 13, 2015, 10:21:25 PM
Really?  Only a year? I thought it was two.  regardless, not too far in the distant past, Nolan Ryan had a hand in building a winner there.  Not sure if any of this now is groundwork he laid, but, it'd make a nice story.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 13, 2015, 10:37:33 PM
Here's a crazy factoid : The Blue Jays are now the team left in the playoffs with the most recent title win.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 14, 2015, 06:14:28 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on October 13, 2015, 10:37:33 PM
Here's a crazy factoid : The Blue Jays are now the team left in the playoffs with the most recent title win.

Well, there's 2 of them in there that never won...
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 14, 2015, 09:45:22 PM
YEAH, BABY!!!!!!

Do not make Jose Bautista angry...

Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 14, 2015, 09:58:15 PM
The Astros need at least 1 more good starter (i.e., not Kazmir) so McHugh and Fiers can go back to being #3 and 4 in the rotation.  And they need at least 1 more hard thrower for their bullpen.  They created the 3-man/3-inning shutdown bullpen with Lidge/Dotel/Wagner in the early '00s.  They need to get back to that.
They also need to learn to work a pitch count.  No way Cueto should've gotten away with only throwing 90 pitches in 8 innings.

Good job KC.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 14, 2015, 10:09:19 PM
Great series between the Astros and the Royals.  The Astros put up a hell of a fight throughout the series and barring the bullpen collapse in game 4 would be playing in the ALCS.  My quick takeaways:

Astros need some serious fucking bullpen help brought in this offseason.

Royals.  I love this team.  They play my favorite type of baseball - small ball very well.  Sure they get the occasional big home run, but the generate a lot of opportunity and runs with small ball baseball.  And they still have the best bullpen in baseball, but man their starters need to quit giving up early inning runs.

Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 14, 2015, 11:12:09 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on October 14, 2015, 09:45:22 PM
YEAH, BABY!!!!!!

Do not make Jose Bautista angry...



That's a pretty dick move.  And you know he did it because they're not playing the Rangers again tomorrow which = no fastball in his earhole for that.  Good job by Toronto, I just wish they hadn't won.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 15, 2015, 10:17:00 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 14, 2015, 11:12:09 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on October 14, 2015, 09:45:22 PM
YEAH, BABY!!!!!!

Do not make Jose Bautista angry...



That's a pretty dick move.  And you know he did it because they're not playing the Rangers again tomorrow which = no fastball in his earhole for that.  Good job by Toronto, I just wish they hadn't won.

The Royals have a history this season of not putting up with that shit.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on October 15, 2015, 01:21:48 PM
Bautista is a douche.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 15, 2015, 02:40:39 PM
For what, getting pumped up and tossing a bat? Oh boo hoo. He didn't stare Dyson down. He didn't slow trot around the bases. He didn't chirp at the pitcher. He tossed his bad hard. OH NOES!  But oh dear, poor little Sammy got his feelings hurt because the bad man threw his bat harder than normal. But I'm sure that it would have been TOTALLY OKAY if little Sammy unleashed a massive fist pump and a primal roar if he struck Bautista out, right? That's totally cool. Sammy wouldn't have seen anything wrong if HE was the one showing a little emotion. Ugh.

That aside, has Cole Hamels murdered half of his own infield yet? He has to be considering it. That guy threw one Hell of a game, and then his shortstop forgot how to catch.

Really looking forward to the KC-Toronto series. They played tight pretty much all year long, and it should be a fun matchup. Houston has a terrific young team that just needs a couple of arms.

Here's hoping that the Mets put down the 'let's buy a title!' Dodgers tonight!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on October 15, 2015, 03:43:59 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on October 15, 2015, 02:40:39 PM
For what, getting pumped up and tossing a bat?

For his whining when someone on another team does it. He a grade A douche regardless of whether he is a good ballplayer or not.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 15, 2015, 07:07:28 PM
A lot of what I heard on sports talk radio today actually had no problem with what he did.  Most of them even suggested that baseball needs more of it in order to draw more eyes to the game.  I disagree.  If that's what kind of person will be drawn to watching baseball, then, I don't want them.  Having said all that, if it was a series ender?  I might be able to see that.  If it was my team and my guy?  I would be less inclined to be up in arms about it, but, I could see where the other side might be pissed about it.  In any case, as an American League guy, I hope the Cubs win.  I hate the Royals AND the Blue Jays!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: endfire79 on October 15, 2015, 10:11:57 PM
Was working that night, but checked out the recaps (after watching hockey first  :) ) and  man what an epic game!!!!  GO JAYS  O0

Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on October 16, 2015, 07:04:04 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 15, 2015, 07:07:28 PM
A lot of what I heard on sports talk radio today actually had no problem with what he did.  Most of them even suggested that baseball needs more of it in order to draw more eyes to the game.  I disagree.  If that's what kind of person will be drawn to watching baseball, then, I don't want them.  Having said all that, if it was a series ender?  I might be able to see that.  If it was my team and my guy?  I would be less inclined to be up in arms about it, but, I could see where the other side might be pissed about it.  In any case, as an American League guy, I hope the Cubs win.  I hate the Royals AND the Blue Jays!

I have no problem with him admiring some of his bombs, it was a massive HR he hit. But don't jaw back at other players who do it to your team. And don't whine like a bitch when you occasionally get plunked for admiring doing HR's.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 16, 2015, 11:35:14 AM
It'll be interesting the royals pitching and Jay's batters have history this season. 

I don't like the show boating.  I think it demeans the game while excitement is good, but I can live without the Terrell Owens effect.  And I don't think more of it will draw fans to baseball.  Baseball is a thinking man's game and isn't tailored to short attention spans.   Which is why I think football is popular.  It's all strength and power with quick results.  Baseball isn't.  To watch s beautifully pitched game requires watching all 9 innings, how each individual hitter and base runner are treated by all nine players on the field.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on October 16, 2015, 11:50:12 AM
You hit a 500 ft HR go ahead and admire it, everyone else is. After you admire if, put your head down and trot around the bases. Don't act like an ass about it.
Same with showing tons of excitement as long as it just the excitement of the moment. You do it to win the game ok, you knock in a run in the 4th not so much. And don't hot dog it for 360 feet. Act like you've been there before, you are suppose to be a professional.
And don't be a whiner if you do act like an ass and someone takes exception to you.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Steelgrave on October 16, 2015, 11:53:20 AM
Almost against my will, this year's MLB playoffs have started directing my attention back towards baseball again. Seriously, I've given up on baseball so many times it's not funny. But I dunno....the game seems to have some "ooomph" back again. We'll see how long it lasts with me.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 16, 2015, 06:27:44 PM
I have watched both Wild Card games (Yankees fans are the worst) as well as several Mets/Dodgers and Cubs/Cards.  They have all been pretty spectacular.  I get why people don't watch some random game in June from start to finish, but, playoff baseball ROCKS!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 16, 2015, 07:19:20 PM
because odds are better than 60% that at least one, and probably both, of the teams in that June game suck ass and are actually AAA teams masquerading as major league ones because baseball doesn't have the balls to kick shitty teams out of the major leagues.  And yes, Houston should've been AAA for 5-6 years there starting about 2008.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 16, 2015, 08:44:47 PM
I was worried about Volquez. When he's on, he's an absolute beast...and dude is ON tonight.

On another note, what the Hell did we do to deserve Joe Buck and Harold Reynolds? Seriously? Do you WANT people to watch this sport?!

Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 16, 2015, 09:18:35 PM
I like Reynolds actually and I'm indifferent to Buck.  He's not to bad for the most part. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 16, 2015, 09:23:36 PM
Buck is just so completely soulless. They could replace him with a robot and nobody would notice the difference. He may as well be a recording. Reynolds is just an idiot. He's basically the Phil Simms of baseball broadcasting. Color guy said something stupidly obvious or unbelievably dumb? Yep, that's Simms/Reynolds.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 16, 2015, 09:27:18 PM
RACIST! 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 16, 2015, 09:29:15 PM
I like Reynolds because he's a small ball guy.  He appreciates working the pitch count and hitting into the shift holes.  He's not loud lout like McCarver was. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 16, 2015, 09:58:23 PM
I like Reynolds, too.  Beginning to dislike Buck.  Haven't liked McCarver since the early 80's when he was on Mets broadcasts.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 16, 2015, 10:24:23 PM
Volquez pitched awesome and the hitters capitalized with some timely at bats.  Great game played by the Royals tonight.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 17, 2015, 06:34:34 PM
I thought the Royals were cooked going into the 7th inning, because Price was so dominate all game and then....the Royals bats came to life again!  I was yelling at the TV for Yost keeping Ventura in for the 6th inning. But having watched the Royals a lot over the last couple of seasons, they always have a chance to come back.  They just need that one hit to get the bats going for a big rally.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 18, 2015, 04:34:58 PM
Quote from: Bison on October 17, 2015, 06:34:34 PM
I thought the Royals were cooked going into the 7th inning, because Price was so dominate all game and then....the Royals bats came to life again!  I was yelling at the TV for Yost keeping Ventura in for the 6th inning. But having watched the Royals a lot over the last couple of seasons, they always have a chance to come back.  They just need that one hit to get the bats going for a big rally.

That seems to be Ventura's deal. The kid has electric stuff, but at some point he gets a case of the yips and just loses it a bit.

KC's hitters are excellent. They work every single plate appearance.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 18, 2015, 05:29:50 PM
Well it'll be interesting going to Toronto's homer dome.  Kaufmann field is a nice huge pitchers park. 

The Cubs mets game was a good one pat night, but Chicago is in trouble if they don't hit homers.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 20, 2015, 06:48:42 PM
Damn crazy couple games the last two in Toronto.   Not close but overwhelming fun if you were cheering for the team scoring all of the runs.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 20, 2015, 10:11:38 PM
Cubs are looking to make Back the Future II wrong.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 20, 2015, 10:13:40 PM
I really thought I wanted the Cubs to win.  And I keep rooting for the Mets.  Looks like I know who I want to win.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 20, 2015, 10:15:46 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 20, 2015, 10:13:40 PM
I really thought I wanted the Cubs to win.  And I keep rooting for the Mets.  Looks like I know who I want to win.

The Royals.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 20, 2015, 11:15:22 PM
Negatory, Ghost Rider.  That'd be the Metropolitans.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 21, 2015, 05:33:31 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 20, 2015, 11:15:22 PMThat'd be the Metropolitans.

Just remember that MD cheers for The Yankees, 'Bama football, the Russians at Stalingrad, the Galactic Empire, and gravity, too.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 21, 2015, 06:05:14 AM
SOMEone has to be the sleaze of the universe!  Just think of the great sacrifice I am making on behalf of you all!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 21, 2015, 08:11:34 AM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on October 21, 2015, 05:33:31 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 20, 2015, 11:15:22 PMThat'd be the Metropolitans.

Just remember that MD cheers for The Yankees, 'Bama football, the Russians at Stalingrad, the Galactic Empire, and gravity, too.

Geez that really make MD sound like an asshole.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 21, 2015, 08:36:22 AM
Quote from: Bison on October 21, 2015, 08:11:34 AM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on October 21, 2015, 05:33:31 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 20, 2015, 11:15:22 PMThat'd be the Metropolitans.

Just remember that MD cheers for The Yankees, 'Bama football, the Russians at Stalingrad, the Galactic Empire, and gravity, too.

Geez that really make MD sound like an asshole.

success!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 21, 2015, 07:15:25 PM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on October 21, 2015, 08:36:22 AM
Quote from: Bison on October 21, 2015, 08:11:34 AM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on October 21, 2015, 05:33:31 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 20, 2015, 11:15:22 PMThat'd be the Metropolitans.

Just remember that MD cheers for The Yankees, 'Bama football, the Russians at Stalingrad, the Galactic Empire, and gravity, too.

Geez that really make MD sound like an asshole.

success!

I say again,

Quote from: MetalDog on October 21, 2015, 06:05:14 AM
SOMEone has to be the sleaze of the universe!  Just think of the great sacrifice I am making on behalf of you all!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 21, 2015, 09:13:32 PM
Hell, I'm with you cheering for the Mets. I wish Syndergaard and d'Arnaud were still in the Jays system!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 22, 2015, 09:22:43 PM
So this article made me chuckle
http://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/for-petes-sake/article40796388.html

Those guys are a riot
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2015, 08:12:37 PM
Just saw Joey Bats crush a pitch to Left Field.  He just destroyed it.  My question, how come he didn't fish face it and stand there staring for an hour and then throw his bat forty or fifty yards?  It's a home tun, isn't it?  It's a joyful occasion and scored runs like the other one he hit, so, what gives?  Isn't it ok to do that all the time?  Cuz it's fun and that's, "just the kind of guy he is?" 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2015, 09:56:52 PM
Didn't pull any of that showboat crap on his second home run, either.  And this one tied the game!  All of which leads me to conclude that the over the top showmanship of that bs performance he put on was just that, show.  And he KNOWS he did what he did to show up the other team.  Which is Bush League and makes the game look bad.  At least, it makes HIM look bad.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 23, 2015, 10:07:25 PM
As opposed to Yordano Ventura looking like a total class act as he stares down Tulo and starts walking towards him after striking him out to end an inning? And Ventura has a history of histrionics like this? Oh wait, that's right, we have different rules when pitchers do this stuff.

WHO CARES? I'd like MORE honest emotion in sports and fewer robots in uniforms. I like a guy getting pumped up when he does something big. (I don't like it when it's clearly not 'in the moment' and something invented ahead of time, such as overly elaborate TD dances or anything using a prop. Nothing is lamer than that). It doesn't spoil the game, and claiming otherwise just seems like overly emotional nonsense to me.

And for the record, I didn't hate Ventura for his act, either...I just thought it was weirdly timed.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2015, 10:18:02 PM
Tulo stepped out right when Ventura was ready to pitch.  Widely regarded as against the "unwritten rules" and risking a fastball to the ribs.  Ventura stared down the ump because time was granted to the hitter.

I will certainly own my feelings about crap like Bautista pulled.  I think it's bush and juvenile and bad sportsmanship.  And to do something like that after you look down your nose at a guy on another team who did something against the "unwritten rules" not a few weeks earlier, just shows what kind of hypocrite Jose is, too.

In the end, I can't tell you how you view it is wrong.  If that's what you like, then that's what you like.  And I'll even admit, if he was doing it for my team, I'd be a bit more open to it.  But he still shouldn't have done it.  It's not how I want to draw people to my favorite sport.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 23, 2015, 10:24:47 PM
Nothing annoys me more in baseball than the 'unwritten rules'. No other sport has this pretentious crap about 'unwritten rules' and 'double-secret expectations' and the like. As someone who came around the baseball much later in life, I'll say that I find it obnoxious.

However, EVERY sport has people complaining whenever a player does anything that they perceive as 'outside the lines'. Half the reason I get so heated about this is years of listening to hockey fans have a fit whenever a hockey player speaks his mind or goes beyond the usual worthless platitudes of 'we have to bury our chances' or 'we gave it 110%'. (And no, I'm not saying in any way that you're anywhere close to this)


On another subject, THIS STUDIO SHOW DURING THE RAIN DELAY IS INTOLERABLE. Why in the world would you put Alex F'n Rodriguez in there? Do you WANT people to hate you?!

Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2015, 10:43:05 PM
I don't get ANY of who they chose for the studio!  Pete Rose?  A-Rod?  Seriously?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 23, 2015, 10:47:24 PM
Never before have I been so happy to hear Joe Buck and Harold Reynolds.

Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2015, 10:51:19 PM
LOL!  I wanna say that I wouldn't go THAT far.....but....yeah, you're right :)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2015, 11:15:06 PM
Revere got hosed
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 23, 2015, 11:17:14 PM
The strike zone this inning is just weird. That pitch that made it 2-1 Donaldson looked like a strike to me.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2015, 11:18:08 PM
Me, too.  Congrats to the Royals.  Now where's Bison to put his two cents in?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 23, 2015, 11:20:25 PM
That was a great game. Sad the Jays lost, but you can't leave as many men on base as they did in this one. Price pitched a fantastic game this time around, but it wasn't to be.

This also shapes up as a really good World Series. I like the way the Royals play ball, but the Mets are fun to watch, too. No games until Tuesday, though.  :'(
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2015, 11:28:11 PM
It's two pitchers parks and one great starting staff versus a great relief corps.  Rooting for the Mets.  Really for no reason other than they aren't Kansas City.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 27, 2015, 10:34:58 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on October 23, 2015, 10:47:24 PM
Never before have I been so happy to hear Joe Buck and Harold Reynolds.
Me too.  Should be a good series.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 28, 2015, 12:19:48 AM
Holy epic 1st game of the World Series!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 28, 2015, 11:09:19 PM
During the game tonight the MLB commentators, John Smoltz was the analyst who is great by the way, they brought up Bret Saberhagen.   I'm just mystified that he never made a strong run at the HoF with the voters.  He was certainly a bit inconsistent over the years, but he was also very dominate.  2 Cy Young Awards and nearly a third when he pitched for the Mets.  2 complete game World Series wins.  Odd.  Just seems like he should have received more consideration.  Then again Tim Raines isn't in the hall either which is a complete shame.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 06:18:08 AM
They used to say that Raines slid head first so he didn't break the coke vial in his back pocket.  And I believe THAT is what will keep Timmy out.  Saberhagen had the two dominant Cy Young years, but, that's pretty much it.  He won 167 games with a 3.34 career ERA.  Hardly HoF numbers.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 08:22:35 AM
Raines was just over shadowed by Henderson and playing on the Expos.  I don't know about the coke use or not.  It wouldn't surprise me.

I don't know that Saberhagen deserves to be in the hall in the end most likely not as he just had a number of off years.  That honestly I think had more to do with playing on some pretty subpar teams.  If he'd been pitching on better teams more consistently, his wins record would have been much better and a 3.34 ERA is not a bad ERA at all.  I'm just saying that he should at least have garnered some considerations being a two time Cy Young winner. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 06:15:05 PM
The problem with the Hall is, no set criteria for entry.  When Mike Mussina retired, a lot of people think he should be in the Hall.  270 career wins, 2800+ K's and double digit wins EVERY full year he played in the Majors.  But he was never a "dominant" pitcher and didn't win 20 in a season until his last year in 2008.  Those things will help keep him out.  As for playing on crappy teams, that's really no excuse.  There are tales of great seasons on crappy teams spread throughout the history of baseball.  Looking through Royals colored glasses isn't helping you, Bison ;)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 06:46:12 PM
Mussina should be in the hall.   I think what I hate most about the hall selection is WHO is allowed to vote.  Frankly I'm not sure some of them deserved to be a lifetime voter.  Also I think sometimes the stats outweigh everything.  The reality is that baseball goes through eras.  Mussina did what he did during the drugged performance period of hitters.  That says something too, but of course some dipshit couch sitter who couldn't throw a strike has the audacity to be "well Mussina didn't win 20 wins consistently"....blah, blah, blah.  Mussian was a dominate pitcher in his era and as far as I know has never been tainted like Clements or others with using PEDs.  That says something too.

Actually Saberhagen played less then half of his career in the Royal blue.  His dominance is just associated with the two Cy Young awards  and insanely overpowering performances in the 85 series.  He was pretty damned good in a number of seasons after he when he went to the Mets too.  He placed I think 3rd for the Cy Young award the year he went to the Mets.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 29, 2015, 06:47:23 PM
I'd put Moose in before Saberhagen.  Brett was good, but only occasionally great.  One might argue that David Wells had a better overall career than Saberhagen.  What really sets Saberhagen apart from guys like Jamie Moyer or David Cone or Roy Oswalt or Mike Hampton?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 06:48:30 PM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on October 29, 2015, 06:47:23 PM
I'd put Moose in before Saberhagen.  Brett was good, but only occasionally great.  One might argue that David Wells had a better overall career than Saberhagen.  What really sets Saberhagen apart from guys like Jamie Moyer or David Cone or Roy Oswalt or Mike Hampton?

Cy Young awards.  Two.  Not many pitchers get two.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 06:50:03 PM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on October 29, 2015, 06:47:23 PM
I'd put Moose in before Saberhagen.  Brett was good, but only occasionally great.  One might argue that David Wells had a better overall career than Saberhagen.  What really sets Saberhagen apart from guys like Jamie Moyer or David Cone or Roy Oswalt or Mike Hampton?

I wouldn't have an issue with Wells, Cone, or Moyer getting some consideration.   Hampton no way.  He never did anything once he went to Colorado.  Saberhagen still produced for teams after being traded or signing for them.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 29, 2015, 07:26:45 PM
Tim Lincecum has 2 and the only way he's getting into the HoF at this point is buying a ticket.

Ditto Johan Santana, but he might actually right the ship and get things together at some point.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 08:01:18 PM
Lincecum really good for about 5 years.  And I do think he should at least garner some consideration for two Cy Youngs and for his Post-season prowess and not that he gets in but certainly deserves to be looked at for his period of dominance.  I think the only thing is that Lincecum may very well be at the end of his career and won't have a late career resurgence, so that'll have an impact on the long productive career aspect of the way stats are geared toward selection criteria.  The Hall of Fame is on my bucket list of places to visit even though the process of who gets in or even considered is screwy.

Also one of my favorite baseball sites.  http://www.baseball-reference.com/

Moyer's career reminds me of Phil Neikro in some ways. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 08:19:31 PM
I haven't been to the Hall either.  I WILL get there before I die.  And I agree on who they let vote.  It used to be beat writers and guys who covered the game seven days a week.  Now, I think all you have to be is a member of the Baseball Writers Association of America.  Don't quote me on that though.  And a fact that I am not sure everyone knows, but, the Hall is not run by MLB.  It's an independent entity.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 08:22:55 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 08:19:31 PM
I haven't been to the Hall either.  I WILL get there before I die.  And I agree on who they let vote.  It used to be beat writers and guys who covered the game seven days a week.  Now, I think all you have to be is a member of the Baseball Writers Association of America.  Don't quote me on that though.  And a fact that I am not sure everyone knows, but, the Hall is not run by MLB.  It's an independent entity.

Yeah they do have to be a BWAA member, which is to my understanding limited basically to print press types.

Here's a good one.  Compare someone like Mariano Rivera and Rollie Fingers.  Both HoF guys, but their stats aren't even really in the same league.  It's just one of those things were stats just are an oddity when it comes to selection.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 08:26:01 PM
It wouldn't hurt if there were era specific stats used as a floor to entry and a general guideline for consideration.  I mean, say, 400 HR, 1,200 RBI a .300 AVG and so on for hitters.  Maybe 250 Wins, 2,500 K's, 3.25 ERA, or 450 Saves.  They don't have to be hard and fast, but, it would give us an idea of who belongs and who doesn't.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 08:29:05 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 08:26:01 PM
It wouldn't hurt if there were era specific stats used as a floor to entry and a general guideline for consideration.  I mean, say, 400 HR, 1,200 RBI a .300 AVG and so on for hitters.  Maybe 250 Wins, 2,500 K's, 3.25 ERA, or 450 Saves.  They don't have to be hard and fast, but, it would give us an idea of who belongs and who doesn't.

The major issue with the hitting stats basis for everyday players is that players like Ozzie Smith would never, ever make that sort of cut.  28 career home runs.  793 career RBI. and a .262 BA.  But anyone would suggest Smith isn't a HoF player has no appreciation of his defensive prowless, leadership, and off the field class.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 08:34:19 PM
I get that.  I'm not advocating for strict measurements as the only way to enter, but, as a measuring tool for the era.  There are always going to be guys like Ozzie.  And his candidacy and entry into the Hall SHOULD be a no brainer.  But with some sort of agreed upon guidelines might help the evidently brain dead that vote to get it right more often than not.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 08:54:27 PM
Yeah I understand your point.  The only issue with the #'s only approach is that long careers almost become a requirement for induction.  I get not every one or two season flash in the pan should be in the hall, but there are just guys that help define an era.  Hershiser is another one like Saberhagen.   Do they deserve to be in?  Maybe not, but it'd be insane to talk about great pitchers of the 80s and at least not have them in the conversation.  John Smoltz for example wouldn't have made the cut if he hadn't had the dominant years as a closer in addition to his starting pitcher years.  Frankly even without the saves, Smoltz should be in the hall but I don't think he would have made the cut.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 09:53:30 PM
I would agree on Smoltz.  He won a Cy Young as a starter and dominated for three years as a closer.  There's no doubt that Atlanta wouldn't have won all those division titles without him.  Saberghagen isn't in the same league as Hershiser though.  I loved Sabes, even though I hate the Royals, but, Hershiser did it better, for longer.  And I thought he was a pretty good pitching coach in Texas, too :)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 29, 2015, 10:22:36 PM
Their careers are pretty close.  Orel won more games, but they both played for horrid teams in the early 90s.  The Mets and the Indians.  Holy crap did they have some shitty years there between them.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 10:31:43 PM
http://m.mlb.com/player/121604/bret-saberhagen

http://m.mlb.com/player/115861/orel-hershiser
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 29, 2015, 10:36:59 PM
Quote from: Bison on October 29, 2015, 10:22:36 PM
Their careers are pretty close.  Orel won more games, but they both played for horrid teams in the early 90s.  The Mets and the Indians.  Holy crap did they have some shitty years there between them.

Actually, those Indians teams Hershiser pitched for were offensive juggernauts. Kenny Lofton, Carlos Baerga, Albert Belle, Eddie Murray, Manny Ramirez, Jim Thome, Sandy Alomar...they smoked teams on a regular basis. Pretty decent bullpen, too. They won the division crown all 3 years that he was there. Lost the World Series to the Marlins in '97.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 30, 2015, 04:54:04 AM
And the Braves in 95
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 30, 2015, 06:30:14 AM
Saberhagen raps!!

http://m.mlb.com/cutfour/2015/10/29/155923184/jimmy-fallon-talks-to-bret-saberhagen-on-tonight-show
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 07:00:21 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on October 29, 2015, 10:36:59 PM
Actually, those Indians teams Hershiser pitched for were offensive juggernauts.

I was thinking Orel started pitching for them in 92.  The early 90's Indians teams were not very good and were sub .500 teams.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on October 30, 2015, 07:33:09 AM
Quote from: Bison on October 30, 2015, 07:00:21 AMI was thinking Orel started pitching for them in 92. 

he was with the Dodgers thru the strike, and the Indians after that.  They first made the World Series the first year he was in Cleveland.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 07:37:10 AM
Just think steroids saved baseball from the effects of the strike.  Or something like that.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 10:46:33 AM
This is a really good list of players not in the Hall who deserve some consideration.  It's over a year old, but the names on it haven't changed.  Man reading though this list really brings back childhood memories.  How the hell is Alan Trammel not in the Hall?  I always assumed he was inducted.  Shame.



http://baseballpastandpresent.com/2013/01/02/50-baseball-players-hall-fame-version-3-0/
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on October 30, 2015, 11:10:23 AM
Well there are a minimum of 750 players on the major league rosters each year. If only the best of the best gets to the Hall then there may only be 10 playing in any given year who will make it. Are there more than 10 really good players in any given year, hell yes, but some will not make it even if it may leave you scratching your head. It needs to be exclusive not inclusive.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 11:12:22 AM
Man not even Sweet Lou Whitaker makes the cut?  Damn it!  He was one of the best.

Nah I get what you are saying Marty.  But the debate is fun! 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 11:34:19 AM
And for those of you who don't have Out of the Park Baseball, it's on sale at steam for $10.  Works on all OS and is a baseball stats fanatic wet dream of simulation.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on October 30, 2015, 12:00:48 PM
Quote from: Bison on October 30, 2015, 11:12:22 AM
Man not even Sweet Lou Whitaker makes the cut?  Damn it!  He was one of the best.

Nah I get what you are saying Marty.  But the debate is fun!

I agree with that.

There are always some who you think should be in but aren't.  There is not much debate about those who do get in though, they deserve it.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 12:15:48 PM
Yeah I'm trying to think of someone in the hall who shouldn't be and off the top of my head I cannot name one.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on October 30, 2015, 12:30:13 PM
I also like that they are putting front office guys, announcers, managers and even umps in. They all contribute to make the game what it is and some should be recognized for exceptional achievements.

I've been to it 3 times, when Brooks Robinson was inducted, when Eddie Murray was inducted and when Cal Ripken was inducted. It is really crowded when they induct but it is worth it if 'your guy' is going in. Ripken was the worst, they had no idea it was going to be so crowded. It set records which I think will be shattered when Jeter goes in.

If you want to take your time and go through it at your own pace don't go on induction weekend. If you do go on induction weekend make hotel reservations way in advance. One time the closest we could get was Binghamton NY, about 80 miles from Cooperstown.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 30, 2015, 06:37:54 PM
Quote from: Bison on October 30, 2015, 12:15:48 PM
Yeah I'm trying to think of someone in the hall who shouldn't be and off the top of my head I cannot name one.

Bill Mazeroski

Phil Rizzuto

Pee Wee Reese

There's three off the top of my head.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 07:05:39 PM
I'm not inclined to pass judgment on guys I never saw play.  Why they got your hall panties in a bunch?
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 30, 2015, 08:49:04 PM
They don't really.  Those are names I remember from hearing "Baseball Guys," like Gammons and Kirkjian and that ilk bringing up when discussing guys that maybe shouldn't be in the Hall.  Mazeroski was a good field no hit 2nd baseman who's mostly remembered for beating the Yanks in the '60 World Series.  Rizzuto is in mainly on the strength of being the shortstop for the Yankees juggernaut of the 50's and Reese was the Dodgers shortstop who lost all those Series to the Yanks in the 40's and 50's.  What else any of them did, I couldn't say.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 09:05:46 PM
I hear you.  Those guys are baseball fanatics. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 30, 2015, 10:34:51 PM
I used to be able to tolerate Gammons.  He didn't let his Red Sox bias show through until late in his career.  Kirkjian is into the minutiae and history of the game.  More than I ever was.  And it's easy to get him to laugh.  Scott Van Pelt used to do it on his radio show and Dan LeBatard has Kirkjian on now, too.  They get him to laugh every time.  It's a great laugh.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 30, 2015, 10:42:03 PM
I can tolerate most of the regular baseball guys with the notiable exceptions of Bob Costas and that other blowhard what's his name... Keith Uberdoucheman.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 30, 2015, 10:52:33 PM
I liked Olbermann when he was a Sportscenter anchor.  And the fact that he's a HUGE Yankee fan AND his love of baseball all work in his favor.  Unfortunately, he has to open his mouth to say how much he loves those things.  And sometimes, other stuff, much more disagreeable comes out.  And that kills it for me.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 31, 2015, 07:51:09 PM
Mets up 1 nothing in the bottom of the Third!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 31, 2015, 08:46:41 PM
Conforto's got two solo bombs!  Mets up 3-1 top 6.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 31, 2015, 10:39:01 PM
Kansas City is just relentless.  Like Harold Reynolds said, "KC is like a shark that smells blood in the water."  Bastards.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 31, 2015, 10:39:06 PM
Good game.  Poor trolling.  :P
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 31, 2015, 10:42:03 PM
Suck it, Royal lover :P
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on October 31, 2015, 10:51:03 PM
You forgot the "s".  It's Royals. 
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on October 31, 2015, 11:05:30 PM
You say "Royals

I say "One game away from World Champs"

Whatevs
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on November 01, 2015, 11:25:46 PM
Kansas City are like baseball playing Terminators. They don't stop. They just keep coming.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on November 01, 2015, 11:33:51 PM
Sharks smelling blood.  I knew if Harvey didn't have a 'Jack Morris' moment, I was going to pull for KC to just end it.  They deserve it.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 02, 2015, 12:35:09 AM
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/1c/Kansas_City_Royals.svg/1024px-Kansas_City_Royals.svg.png)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on November 02, 2015, 06:54:28 AM
Congrats to the Royals!  They certainly are worthy champs!!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on November 02, 2015, 07:08:24 AM
Well done to KC.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on November 02, 2015, 08:04:50 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 30, 2015, 06:37:54 PM
Quote from: Bison on October 30, 2015, 12:15:48 PM
Yeah I'm trying to think of someone in the hall who shouldn't be and off the top of my head I cannot name one.

Bill Mazeroski

Phil Rizzuto

Pee Wee Reese

There's three off the top of my head.


Maz got in due to fielding, .983 fielding percentage in over 2000 games and 8 gold gloves. His other stats are not impressive.
Pee Wee turned a lot of DP's, averaged ~100 per year for 6 straight years, stole a lot of bases for the time period (led league with 30 one year) but not much else stands out.
Rizzuto seems to have had one really good year, batted .342 won AL MVP and Major League MPV. Other than that not a lot stands out.
Part of the criteria to get elected is character so maybe that is what got Pee Wee and Rizzuto in. That and playing in NY!
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 02, 2015, 09:08:55 AM
The Royals run this post-season is one of the most amazing I've ever seen.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on November 02, 2015, 09:16:42 AM
Quote from: Bison on November 02, 2015, 09:08:55 AM
The Royals run this post-season is one of the most amazing I've ever seen.

The Astros helped out by borrowing most of their bullpen "talent" from the Savannah Sand Gnats and the Holly Spring Salamanders.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Marty Ward on November 02, 2015, 10:22:46 AM
Quote from: Bison on November 02, 2015, 09:08:55 AM
The Royals run this post-season is one of the most amazing I've ever seen.

I thought last's years run was better than this year. Barely making it into the playoffs, going undefeated until the WS, with a club that wasn't as good as this years club. A lot of people picked them to make the playoffs this year.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 02, 2015, 11:07:26 AM
John Smoltz said it best last night after the Royals put up 5 in the 12th.  Every team in the playoffs can say we should have beat the Royals, but they didn't.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 02, 2015, 11:15:45 AM
Quote from: Marty Ward on November 02, 2015, 10:22:46 AM
Quote from: Bison on November 02, 2015, 09:08:55 AM
The Royals run this post-season is one of the most amazing I've ever seen.

I thought last's years run was better than this year. Barely making it into the playoffs, going undefeated until the WS, with a club that wasn't as good as this years club. A lot of people picked them to make the playoffs this year.

Last year was an amazing run,  Knut they were projected to be 3 or forth on the central.  It was Detroit or Chicago who suppose to compete for the central.  I still thing that if they sent Gordon home in the 9th against the Giants he would have scored.  But that was in the past and last night is reality. 

The Mets and royals were both pretty sloppy with infield defense.  But Daniel Murphy will go down as the goat along with the reliever Familia.  3 blown saves in the World Series is crazy for a good reliever.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on November 02, 2015, 11:52:38 AM
Quote from: Bison on November 02, 2015, 11:15:45 AMI still thing that if they sent Gordon home in the 9th against the Giants he would have scored.  But that was in the past and last night is reality.

http://grantland.com/features/mlb-win-percentage-added-world-series-championship-kirk-gibson-bobby-thomson-david-freese-mariano-rivera-yogi-berra/
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 02, 2015, 11:56:51 AM
Good read.  Thanks.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Nefaro on November 03, 2015, 09:14:31 AM
Been so long since a World Series win, here in KC, the schools are all out today for the parade.  As is some businesses. 

I detect much drinking & celebrating ahead.

Just wish our football team could do the same.  It's been even longer.   :knuppel2:
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on November 03, 2015, 09:24:09 AM
post some pix!


(and this thread is going to get un-stickied soon)
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 04, 2015, 11:08:37 PM
Quote from: bayonetbrant on November 03, 2015, 09:24:09 AM
post some pix!


(and this thread is going to get un-stickied soon)

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  It's free agent season and post-season moves and only 3 months until pitchers and catcher report!


On a side note: The Royals have some big decisions this off season.  Gordon declined his option.  So now the need to decide on at least two of the core from this year's team Gordon and Zobrist.  I hope they sign both, but money will be an issue.  They need another starter too, but man I just thing KC will get hit by the small market money crunch this off season.  On the bright side, they do have a pretty strong farm system.  So hopefully there is some talent waiting to breakout next year.  I'm a little disappointed that they declined the option on Alex Rios.  Sure he wasn't the best this season, but I like his playing style and I think he just adds some class and leadership to the team.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on November 04, 2015, 11:20:02 PM
Kansas City has been to the last two World Series and won the last one.  They didn't let anyone in for free.  Drayton may want to run the team within a budget, but, I'm sure it could encompass the signing of Gordon, Zobrist, Rios AND a starter if he so chose.  He would do well to try and do just that.  And if he doesn't, as a KC fan Bison, I would be kind of mad he didn't.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 04, 2015, 11:29:56 PM
Well I can honestly understand the Rios decision from a financial standpoint.  He really was not productive this year from the plate.  But his presence and clutch hits during the playoffs just stand out to me.  The bigger long term issue is that Hosmer, Moose, Davis, Cain, and Perez all become free agents I think at the same time or within one year of each other.  So there is a lot of money that needs to be figured out how to spend on and who coming up in the next few years.  But I think the Royals have the potential to be very competitive next year again, but there are some really good teams lurking for their shot now.  I cannot believe I'm going to say this but the Cubs are a team to fear next year especially if they make a couple of big moves in FA.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on November 04, 2015, 11:40:22 PM
The Cubs are good, the Raiders actually look good...what the Hell is happening with team sports?!

The Royals truly earned their win this year. It was also nice seeing a postseason filled with some new blood. For KC this off season, I'd push the hardest to keep Zobrist and Gordon. Jarrod Dyson is more than ready to step in to an outfield spot now, so there's your right fielder. I don't know who they have coming along, so maybe they have a kid second baseman or outfielder ready to make the jump. They'll need to find a bargain arm to replace Cueto, because I can't see them affording his price.

Long term, they HAVE to keep Perez. Cain would be #2, and Hosmer #3. Moose is too inconsistent. Unless he repeats what he did this year and shows that he really has improved, I'd let him walk. Let some other team pay stupid money for a closer. They seem to do just fine finding late inning relief options, and Herrera certainly looks like a guy who could take the gig.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 04, 2015, 11:47:08 PM
Yeah I pretty much see the four of them in that order too, but Hosmer was THE pick to build the team around 6 or so years ago.  The problem with Perez is where doesn't he move to when he isn't the full time catcher.  He really doesn't have the power to go to the DH slot, Hosmer and Moose are both outstanding defensively at their positions.  Tough decisions ahead for sure, but at least it's a couple of years out and a lot can change in baseball in a couple of years.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on November 05, 2015, 11:01:05 PM
Good read about what to expect on the Hot Stove this winter.


http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/here-comes-a-most-intriguing-mlb-offseason/ar-BBmSzIQ?ocid=mailsignout#page=1
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 06, 2015, 12:32:27 AM
Good stuff.   
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Arctic Blast on November 11, 2015, 06:20:12 PM
How are we just now rolling out awards? Seriously? Another week plus for the MVP to be announced? Everyone has moved on already!

Just start announcing award winners at the start of the World Series. Do one award a day and go until you're finished. Done. This is just stupid.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 11, 2015, 11:04:45 PM
Not me.  I've basically given up on football and baseball is about the only sport I really care to follow any more.  Although I have been watching some soccer lately, which isn't too horrible.  If it weren't for their complete acceptance of ties a normal end of a competitive game.  Seriously it's the game that apparently invented the participation award.  "Hey guys.  Good job.  We just ran around the field for 180 minutes and no one won the game!  AWESOME!"  Puh'leeze.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: MetalDog on November 12, 2015, 07:37:42 PM
The Braves just traded Andrelton Simmons to the Angels for Erick Aybar, the Angels No. 1 pitching prospect, a couple of low level minor leaguers and $3 million in cash.  I hate that Simmons had to go, but, he was a valuable chip and the Braves are playing for 2017 when the new stadium opens up.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 12, 2015, 08:15:45 PM
I didn't realize they were shuttering the Atlanta stadium.  I thought it was fairly new.
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: bayonetbrant on November 12, 2015, 08:58:52 PM
Quote from: Bison on November 12, 2015, 08:15:45 PM
I didn't realize they were shuttering the Atlanta stadium.  I thought it was fairly new.

it is new (built for '96 Olympics), but the Braves want to be in the 'burbs where there season ticket-holders are, and where those season ticket holders don't have to go downtown and drive through "those" neighborhoods to get to their games.
http://grantland.com/the-triangle/saying-good-bye-as-the-braves-leave-atlanta-for-atlanta/
Title: Re: The 2015 Baseball Thread
Post by: Bison on November 12, 2015, 09:02:28 PM
Huh.