Sunday, December 4, 2011
RICH LIEBERMAN 415 MEDIA: How to get even with Cumulus/KGO Radio: Hit 'em wh...
RICH LIEBERMAN 415 MEDIA: How to get even with Cumulus/KGO Radio: Hit 'em wh...: The reaction and disgust is evident. They hear you. They are all the talk hosts, producers, various personnel from KGO Radio who were ...
Saturday, December 3, 2011
RICH LIEBERMAN 415 MEDIA: KGO Radio: The day the 'IT' hit the fan; Bloodbath...
RICH LIEBERMAN 415 MEDIA: KGO Radio: The day the 'IT' hit the fan; Bloodbath...: It was Wednesday night at KGO Radio. The last day of the month. Nothing unusual except for the fact that the news director, Paul Hosley, and...
Saturday, October 15, 2011
MLB At Bat '11 Android App Connects Fans With Baseball Like Never Before
Imagine watching a live baseball game right from your Android smartphone wherever you go. Propose this notion 20 years ago and people would think you were beaned with a fastball to the head one too many times.
What was once a service for keeping track of scores, live play-by-play on a virtual baseball field, or even listening to the occasional broadcast has now become a baseball entertainment center in your pocket. All it takes is a MLB.TV subscription on your computer, a flash player on your Android phone, and a MLB At Bat '11 subscription for $19.99.
Upon entry of the Android app, fans are greeted with all the live baseball scores. All it takes is a touch of that score and you will get the Gameday play-by-play interface almost as good a quality as the computer version--including notifications of live happenings, pitch locations, pitch speeds, run-scoring plays, outs, strikes, balls, whose on base, and more. All this on a virtual representation of the baseball field.
In the same menu, you can push a tab that will take you to a live box score. Click on a player, and their baseball card will pop up. The box score updates as the game happens, so you won't miss a beat if you chose to check out the game summary or scan through your favorite player's stats.
Want to hear what's going on live? Just go back to the scores menu and click on "listen to live broadcast." You not only will hear the home team's radio feed, but you will actually get to choose between the home and road feeds--yes, wouldn't Giants fans like to hear Jon Miller call a game instead of Charlie Steiner of the Dodgers?
Lastly, the feature that revolutionizes the app is the live TV option. I have yet to test the television feed myself, so I do not know how it works exactly, but with just Flash Player, you can watch one of the television feeds wherever you go--whether it be a restaurant, your cousin's wedding, or in class.
Other features include a favorite team customization, a news feature, videos, standings, and much more. If that's not enough, there is a section where you can connect with any ballpark's mobile features, allowing you to watch the replays on those close calls the JumboTron is not allowed to show.
As a big San Francisco Giants fan, I love the app and would recommend it for any die-hard fan. While the At Bat '11 app reaches its peak performance for the iPhone, the Android version still is a handy tool. If you are a casual fan who does not follow baseball, it may not be for you, but if you are the type who debates whether or not to go out and party or watch the game, this app is for you--you can do both!
What was once a service for keeping track of scores, live play-by-play on a virtual baseball field, or even listening to the occasional broadcast has now become a baseball entertainment center in your pocket. All it takes is a MLB.TV subscription on your computer, a flash player on your Android phone, and a MLB At Bat '11 subscription for $19.99.
Upon entry of the Android app, fans are greeted with all the live baseball scores. All it takes is a touch of that score and you will get the Gameday play-by-play interface almost as good a quality as the computer version--including notifications of live happenings, pitch locations, pitch speeds, run-scoring plays, outs, strikes, balls, whose on base, and more. All this on a virtual representation of the baseball field.
In the same menu, you can push a tab that will take you to a live box score. Click on a player, and their baseball card will pop up. The box score updates as the game happens, so you won't miss a beat if you chose to check out the game summary or scan through your favorite player's stats.
Want to hear what's going on live? Just go back to the scores menu and click on "listen to live broadcast." You not only will hear the home team's radio feed, but you will actually get to choose between the home and road feeds--yes, wouldn't Giants fans like to hear Jon Miller call a game instead of Charlie Steiner of the Dodgers?
Lastly, the feature that revolutionizes the app is the live TV option. I have yet to test the television feed myself, so I do not know how it works exactly, but with just Flash Player, you can watch one of the television feeds wherever you go--whether it be a restaurant, your cousin's wedding, or in class.
Other features include a favorite team customization, a news feature, videos, standings, and much more. If that's not enough, there is a section where you can connect with any ballpark's mobile features, allowing you to watch the replays on those close calls the JumboTron is not allowed to show.
As a big San Francisco Giants fan, I love the app and would recommend it for any die-hard fan. While the At Bat '11 app reaches its peak performance for the iPhone, the Android version still is a handy tool. If you are a casual fan who does not follow baseball, it may not be for you, but if you are the type who debates whether or not to go out and party or watch the game, this app is for you--you can do both!
Friday, September 23, 2011
The Battle of the 21st Century: Blackberry vs. Android
I'm back! Sorry for the long hiatus, but I had a two-month battle with writer's block. Now, on Oct 26, 2011, I am back and ready to write! About Giants baseball? That will be coming up, but another interesting issue has boggled my mind.
In the past year, I have owned each of the two competing phone operating systems--Android and Blackberry. I neglect to mention the iPhone in this mobile battle because I think it is in a league of its own (R.I.P. you great innovator Steve Jobs).
Each phone has its advantages. The Android has its user-friendly, touch-free operating system, while the Blackberry is a businessperson's dream.
Let's take a look at each phone. Which phone is better? We'll let you decide, but I'll put in my two cents in the end.
The Blackberry
The Blackberry was introduced in 1999 by Research in Motion (RIM) as a two-way pager. The device has come a long way from its beeper days--it is an all-in-one phone, palm pilot, entertainment center, and mini computer.
The easy-to-use QWERTY keyboard on this mobile device stands out. This is an advantage for those who e-mail on the go or frequent texters. Since texting is becoming the dominating use for the cell phone, a good keyboard layout is invaluable to customers.
Imagine you have to send a three-paragraph, 150-word e-mail to a client. With the Blackberry, you can whip out the text almost as fast as you can type. With the touch screen phones, it could take twice as long, as you struggle to hit those small on-screen keys about half the size of your fingertip.
Another advantage of the Blackberry is that you can put multiple e-mail accounts into one app. Have two separate e-mails for work and personal use? Expecting multiple e-mails from different accounts? This is not a problem with the Blackberry. You will receive them all at once on the same application.
Despite its business-friendly interface made for easy word processing and typing or texting, the Blackberry has its flaws. The internet browser is slow and the phone crashes frequently when trying to load complex web pages not loaded with mobile sites.
For a working person looking to read PDFs, send e-mails, and easily communicate with others quickly and efficiently, this phone would more than suit a professional's needs.
The Android
After I traded in my Blackberry, I was excited to receive my new LG Optimus Android phone. Gone were the days of slow internet connections and random pocket-dialings, and here came the touch screen revolution.
My best description of the Android is it's the poor man's iPhone. It has some of the same features as Jobs' prized creation, but the iPhone is a bit faster and more user-friendly--and let's face it. The iPhone has the Apple logo so popular in today's mobile market.
The Android's touch screen environment makes the Android what it is. It is much easier than the Blackberry when it comes to navigating through menus or finding a feature or app. You just point your finger on what your look for, and the program will open at your fingertips touch.
Another cool thing about the Android is you can have multiple apps running at the same time. Want to listen to the radio on your phone and play poker at the same time? The Android will let you do that--without crashing too. The Blackberry would allow this for some apps, such as some radio apps, but if you wanted to listen to streaming media, you could not do anything else on your phone because the media player would be all that could run.
Lastly, another advantage of the Android over the Blackberry is web browsing. Don't like eBay's mobile site? Not a problem. With the Android, you can view a web site's regular online web site in addition to it's mobile companion site. This gives the consumer even more options and choices. All this happens at speeds faster than the Blackberry.
As mentioned earlier, the touch screen falls a bit short when it comes to texting or e-mailing. It is almost impossible to not mess up when typing. Too many times you would have to push the delete button because you pushed that "w" key instead of the "e." Once you get used to it, it is not that bad, but it will take a few weeks to get acclimated to the virtual keyboard.
My Verdict
I will have to choose the Android as my winner. Although I do text a lot, and I like to text fast, the faster internet browsing speed and the ability to run multiple applications (and without crashing) does it for me. The typing problem can be dealt with over time with a little practice.
Apparently, I am not alone in my decision. According to the latest Nielsen report, 29 percent of Americans are using Android phones, 27 percent are using Blackberries, and another 27% are using iPhones.
However, if I was in the working world where I relied on my phone to send e-mails or read documents, I might have a different opinion. For now, my Android will charge up as I head to sleep, ready to entertain me for a whole another day.
In the past year, I have owned each of the two competing phone operating systems--Android and Blackberry. I neglect to mention the iPhone in this mobile battle because I think it is in a league of its own (R.I.P. you great innovator Steve Jobs).
Each phone has its advantages. The Android has its user-friendly, touch-free operating system, while the Blackberry is a businessperson's dream.
Let's take a look at each phone. Which phone is better? We'll let you decide, but I'll put in my two cents in the end.
The Blackberry
The Blackberry was introduced in 1999 by Research in Motion (RIM) as a two-way pager. The device has come a long way from its beeper days--it is an all-in-one phone, palm pilot, entertainment center, and mini computer.
The easy-to-use QWERTY keyboard on this mobile device stands out. This is an advantage for those who e-mail on the go or frequent texters. Since texting is becoming the dominating use for the cell phone, a good keyboard layout is invaluable to customers.
Imagine you have to send a three-paragraph, 150-word e-mail to a client. With the Blackberry, you can whip out the text almost as fast as you can type. With the touch screen phones, it could take twice as long, as you struggle to hit those small on-screen keys about half the size of your fingertip.
Another advantage of the Blackberry is that you can put multiple e-mail accounts into one app. Have two separate e-mails for work and personal use? Expecting multiple e-mails from different accounts? This is not a problem with the Blackberry. You will receive them all at once on the same application.
Despite its business-friendly interface made for easy word processing and typing or texting, the Blackberry has its flaws. The internet browser is slow and the phone crashes frequently when trying to load complex web pages not loaded with mobile sites.
For a working person looking to read PDFs, send e-mails, and easily communicate with others quickly and efficiently, this phone would more than suit a professional's needs.
The Android
After I traded in my Blackberry, I was excited to receive my new LG Optimus Android phone. Gone were the days of slow internet connections and random pocket-dialings, and here came the touch screen revolution.
My best description of the Android is it's the poor man's iPhone. It has some of the same features as Jobs' prized creation, but the iPhone is a bit faster and more user-friendly--and let's face it. The iPhone has the Apple logo so popular in today's mobile market.
The Android's touch screen environment makes the Android what it is. It is much easier than the Blackberry when it comes to navigating through menus or finding a feature or app. You just point your finger on what your look for, and the program will open at your fingertips touch.
Another cool thing about the Android is you can have multiple apps running at the same time. Want to listen to the radio on your phone and play poker at the same time? The Android will let you do that--without crashing too. The Blackberry would allow this for some apps, such as some radio apps, but if you wanted to listen to streaming media, you could not do anything else on your phone because the media player would be all that could run.
Lastly, another advantage of the Android over the Blackberry is web browsing. Don't like eBay's mobile site? Not a problem. With the Android, you can view a web site's regular online web site in addition to it's mobile companion site. This gives the consumer even more options and choices. All this happens at speeds faster than the Blackberry.
As mentioned earlier, the touch screen falls a bit short when it comes to texting or e-mailing. It is almost impossible to not mess up when typing. Too many times you would have to push the delete button because you pushed that "w" key instead of the "e." Once you get used to it, it is not that bad, but it will take a few weeks to get acclimated to the virtual keyboard.
My Verdict
I will have to choose the Android as my winner. Although I do text a lot, and I like to text fast, the faster internet browsing speed and the ability to run multiple applications (and without crashing) does it for me. The typing problem can be dealt with over time with a little practice.
Apparently, I am not alone in my decision. According to the latest Nielsen report, 29 percent of Americans are using Android phones, 27 percent are using Blackberries, and another 27% are using iPhones.
However, if I was in the working world where I relied on my phone to send e-mails or read documents, I might have a different opinion. For now, my Android will charge up as I head to sleep, ready to entertain me for a whole another day.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Brian Wilson: Do the S.F. Giants Need Him Fully Healthy to Win the NL West?
PHILADELPHIA, PA - JULY 28: Closing pitcher Brian Wilson #38 of the San Francisco Giants delivers a pitch in the bottom of the ninth inning during the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on July 28, 2011 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Giants won 4-1. (Photo by Drew Hallowell/Getty Images)
By Vince Cestone
Tuesday night's game might have indicated how much they miss their bearded right-handed closer.
It seemed the magic was back at AT&T Park. A sold-out crowd of 41,288 roared in excitement as the Giants rallied from a 4-0 then 5-2 deficit to tie the game in the eighth inning.
As fans might have thought for a brief moment their waterfront ballpark was Mecca again, where Giants baseball at home means spirited comebacks, and eventually, thrilling walk-off wins, the Padres brought San Francisco back to recent reality in the top of the ninth inning. Brian Wilson, their eccentric finisher who calls the top of the ninth inning home when the Giants are leading or tied, was no where in sight.
Filling in Wilson's orange shoes was the struggling Ramon Ramirez, who has limped through August with a 7.36 ERA and a 2.05 WHIP for the month. A quick double, sacrifice bunt, hit, and yet another hit later, the Giants were down 7-5 heading into the bottom of the ninth.
Asking the Giants to come back twice in one game might be asking a bit much for a team dead last in the National League in runs scored. All Wilson could do was watch in despair as his temporary replacement was rocked around by the suddenly hot-hitting San Diego Padres.
This game could have been a preview as to why the Giants need Brian Wilson—and his 35 saves—fully healthy to win the National League West. A bullpen that was once a lock-down staff now looks rather ordinary without the fearless closer.
Wilson himself understands his importance to the team and wants to be out there as soon as possible. Although the Giants' closer did not want to speak to the media about his elbow injury, head trainer Dave Groeschner said he is optimistic Wilson will pitch again this season sooner rather than later.
"There’s nobody in the clubhouse that wants to be out there more than him,” Groeschner said to Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News.
Baggarly also reported that Bochy remains optimistic that Wilson will return from the disabled list when he is eligible to do so on Aug. 31.
The Giants' strong desire to have their closer back is with good reason. With set-up man Sergio Romo also on the disabled list with a sore right elbow, the remaining bullpen pitchers still standing essentially move up two notches, leaving some pitchers in unfamiliar roles.
So far, that unfamiliarity cost the Giants Tuesday night's game—and almost Game 3 of the Atlanta series, where Dan Runzler and Jeremy Affeldt turned a comfortable 7-1 lead in the ninth into another nail-biting 7-5 victory with the tying run left at the plate.
The negative consequence of the loss of Wilson and the Giants' scrambling of roles is the team lost someone who has a mind for pitching the ninth inning. The 27th out is the hardest one to get in a game and not every pitcher has the mental makeup for pitching the ninth in a save situation.
Wilson also has the experience in big-game save situations that the other pitchers do not have. Last September, Wilson had a 1.26 ERA and 10 saves in 11 opportunities.
Now that Wilson is on the disabled list, the Giants must rely on the likes of rookie Steve Edlefsen and Runzler to contribute during the stretch run. Edlefsen hardly dominated Pacific Coast League batting with his 5.66 ERA at AAA Fresno.
Runzler has not fared much better as he was lit up in his recent relief appearance against the Atlanta Braves. He has a 7.77 ERA in the big leagues this season and has pitched erratically, struggling to throw the ball over the plate.
The Giants most likely cannot win the National League West without a good, strong bullpen. Without the anchor of their bullpen, the Giants could very well see themselves on the other side of the one-run games they were winning earlier.
If the Giants are going to make the playoffs by scoring the least amount of runs in the National League, a stellar bullpen will be needed. Without Wilson and Romo, the Giants do not have as much depth to make that happen.
If Wilson's injury is temporary, the Giants have just enough depth to survive his loss for a couple of weeks. Jeremy Affeldt, Javier Lopez or even Santiago Casilla—who all have great numbers this season—could fill in for a few games.
However, if the injury is anything more, the Giants may as well go there separate ways and start their long winter come October.
Quick Note on Giants' Android App
If you do not have it already, make sure you check out the San Francisco Giants app for the Android Phone. The app allows you to quickly access the Giants' mobile home page through the touch of the screen.
Also, you can get custom Giants' themed wallpaper for your Android home page--I personally have the big SF as the background of my home page. It is amazing what these smartphones can do now.
Check out the Android market for more information. Even if you are not a Giants fan, there are similar team-specific apps suited for your favorite club.
This article was featured on the Bleacher Report.
Follow me on twitter @vintalkingiants.
Check out my YouTube page for exclusive interviews with San Francisco Giants' prospects and more.
Questions or comments? E-mail my blog mailbag at vc4re@yahoo.com. Your questions may be answered on my blog.
Be sure to use the #talkinggiants tag when referring to my article on twitter.
Don't forget to take my poll on the left of my site.
Add me on Facebook. Click here.
It seemed the magic was back at AT&T Park. A sold-out crowd of 41,288 roared in excitement as the Giants rallied from a 4-0 then 5-2 deficit to tie the game in the eighth inning.
As fans might have thought for a brief moment their waterfront ballpark was Mecca again, where Giants baseball at home means spirited comebacks, and eventually, thrilling walk-off wins, the Padres brought San Francisco back to recent reality in the top of the ninth inning. Brian Wilson, their eccentric finisher who calls the top of the ninth inning home when the Giants are leading or tied, was no where in sight.
Filling in Wilson's orange shoes was the struggling Ramon Ramirez, who has limped through August with a 7.36 ERA and a 2.05 WHIP for the month. A quick double, sacrifice bunt, hit, and yet another hit later, the Giants were down 7-5 heading into the bottom of the ninth.
Asking the Giants to come back twice in one game might be asking a bit much for a team dead last in the National League in runs scored. All Wilson could do was watch in despair as his temporary replacement was rocked around by the suddenly hot-hitting San Diego Padres.
This game could have been a preview as to why the Giants need Brian Wilson—and his 35 saves—fully healthy to win the National League West. A bullpen that was once a lock-down staff now looks rather ordinary without the fearless closer.
Wilson himself understands his importance to the team and wants to be out there as soon as possible. Although the Giants' closer did not want to speak to the media about his elbow injury, head trainer Dave Groeschner said he is optimistic Wilson will pitch again this season sooner rather than later.
"There’s nobody in the clubhouse that wants to be out there more than him,” Groeschner said to Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News.
Baggarly also reported that Bochy remains optimistic that Wilson will return from the disabled list when he is eligible to do so on Aug. 31.
The Giants' strong desire to have their closer back is with good reason. With set-up man Sergio Romo also on the disabled list with a sore right elbow, the remaining bullpen pitchers still standing essentially move up two notches, leaving some pitchers in unfamiliar roles.
So far, that unfamiliarity cost the Giants Tuesday night's game—and almost Game 3 of the Atlanta series, where Dan Runzler and Jeremy Affeldt turned a comfortable 7-1 lead in the ninth into another nail-biting 7-5 victory with the tying run left at the plate.
The negative consequence of the loss of Wilson and the Giants' scrambling of roles is the team lost someone who has a mind for pitching the ninth inning. The 27th out is the hardest one to get in a game and not every pitcher has the mental makeup for pitching the ninth in a save situation.
Wilson also has the experience in big-game save situations that the other pitchers do not have. Last September, Wilson had a 1.26 ERA and 10 saves in 11 opportunities.
Now that Wilson is on the disabled list, the Giants must rely on the likes of rookie Steve Edlefsen and Runzler to contribute during the stretch run. Edlefsen hardly dominated Pacific Coast League batting with his 5.66 ERA at AAA Fresno.
Runzler has not fared much better as he was lit up in his recent relief appearance against the Atlanta Braves. He has a 7.77 ERA in the big leagues this season and has pitched erratically, struggling to throw the ball over the plate.
The Giants most likely cannot win the National League West without a good, strong bullpen. Without the anchor of their bullpen, the Giants could very well see themselves on the other side of the one-run games they were winning earlier.
If the Giants are going to make the playoffs by scoring the least amount of runs in the National League, a stellar bullpen will be needed. Without Wilson and Romo, the Giants do not have as much depth to make that happen.
If Wilson's injury is temporary, the Giants have just enough depth to survive his loss for a couple of weeks. Jeremy Affeldt, Javier Lopez or even Santiago Casilla—who all have great numbers this season—could fill in for a few games.
However, if the injury is anything more, the Giants may as well go there separate ways and start their long winter come October.
Quick Note on Giants' Android App
If you do not have it already, make sure you check out the San Francisco Giants app for the Android Phone. The app allows you to quickly access the Giants' mobile home page through the touch of the screen.
Also, you can get custom Giants' themed wallpaper for your Android home page--I personally have the big SF as the background of my home page. It is amazing what these smartphones can do now.
Check out the Android market for more information. Even if you are not a Giants fan, there are similar team-specific apps suited for your favorite club.
This article was featured on the Bleacher Report.
Follow me on twitter @vintalkingiants.
Check out my YouTube page for exclusive interviews with San Francisco Giants' prospects and more.
Questions or comments? E-mail my blog mailbag at vc4re@yahoo.com. Your questions may be answered on my blog.
Be sure to use the #talkinggiants tag when referring to my article on twitter.
Don't forget to take my poll on the left of my site.
Add me on Facebook. Click here.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
MLB Free Agents: Which Impending Giants' Free Agents Will They Re-Sign?
By Vince Cestone
The San Francisco Giants will have nine big questions to answer once the 2011 season ends.
Nine men off their 2011 roster will hit free agency this winter, and the Giants will more than likely bid farewell to most of them—especially the aging veterans. Such company might include injury-prone players such as Mark DeRosa, Pat Burrell, and Carlos Beltran.
Beltran, essentially a two-month rental, was the Giants' answer to their offensive enigma that ranks dead last in the National League in runs scored. Unfortunately for San Francisco, Beltran has been an unfortunate enigma himself.
The slugging outfielder was placed on the 15-day disabled list last Tuesday with a wrist injury and has hit just .244, with no home runs and two RBI in 11 games with the Giants. Due to his frequent stints on the disabled list and his gargantuan upcoming contract standard of Scott Boras clients, the Giants will more than likely seek other offensive outfield options in 2012.
On the flip side, here are five impending free agents the Giants have a chance of re-signing this winter.
Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images
Carlos Beltran is batting .244, with zero home runs and two RBI, in 11 games with the Giants.
Drew Hallowell/Getty Images
The San Francisco Giants will have nine big questions to answer once the 2011 season ends.
Nine men off their 2011 roster will hit free agency this winter, and the Giants will more than likely bid farewell to most of them—especially the aging veterans. Such company might include injury-prone players such as Mark DeRosa, Pat Burrell, and Carlos Beltran.
Beltran, essentially a two-month rental, was the Giants' answer to their offensive enigma that ranks dead last in the National League in runs scored. Unfortunately for San Francisco, Beltran has been an unfortunate enigma himself.
The slugging outfielder was placed on the 15-day disabled list last Tuesday with a wrist injury and has hit just .244, with no home runs and two RBI in 11 games with the Giants. Due to his frequent stints on the disabled list and his gargantuan upcoming contract standard of Scott Boras clients, the Giants will more than likely seek other offensive outfield options in 2012.
On the flip side, here are five impending free agents the Giants have a chance of re-signing this winter.
Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images
The 2010 NLCS MVP would love to rejoin San Francisco in 2012, and the Giants' feeling seems to be mutual.
According to Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News, Ross talked to Giants' officials during spring training about a possible contract extension.
While he is intrigued with testing free agency, Ross told Baggarly he would prefer to stay in San Francisco.
“I've let them know that's what I want,” Ross said. “Free agency would be cool to experience, but I know what this team is about and where it's going. We have a great thing here, and I want to stay.”
Baggarly also reported that the Giants will revisit extension talks later in the season.
Ross would be an excellent backup outfielder or possibly a starter, depending on who the Giants sign this offseason. While he is streaky at the plate, he has shown he can get a big hit, play all three outfield positions, and has a decent glove.
Plus, the Giants would probably love to keep those "Ross is Boss" shirts selling at AT&T Park.
Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesWhile no recent news has indicated the Giants will resign Javier Lopez, the Giants would probably welcome the chance of bringing their crafty lefty back.
According to Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News, Ross talked to Giants' officials during spring training about a possible contract extension.
While he is intrigued with testing free agency, Ross told Baggarly he would prefer to stay in San Francisco.
“I've let them know that's what I want,” Ross said. “Free agency would be cool to experience, but I know what this team is about and where it's going. We have a great thing here, and I want to stay.”
Baggarly also reported that the Giants will revisit extension talks later in the season.
Ross would be an excellent backup outfielder or possibly a starter, depending on who the Giants sign this offseason. While he is streaky at the plate, he has shown he can get a big hit, play all three outfield positions, and has a decent glove.
Plus, the Giants would probably love to keep those "Ross is Boss" shirts selling at AT&T Park.
Ezra Shaw/Getty Images
The Giants' strength for the last couple of years has been their bullpen. This year is no exception.
San Francisco leads the National League in bullpen ERA at 2.93.
Lopez has contributed to the Giants' elite bullpen staff with a 2.49 clip this season. He has struck out 37 batters in 47 innings pitched, while walking 24.
If the Giants want to be successful in an age where pitching dominates, combined with their hitting woes, they should maintain their strength and keep their dominant left-hander.
Christian Petersen/Getty Images
San Francisco leads the National League in bullpen ERA at 2.93.
Lopez has contributed to the Giants' elite bullpen staff with a 2.49 clip this season. He has struck out 37 batters in 47 innings pitched, while walking 24.
If the Giants want to be successful in an age where pitching dominates, combined with their hitting woes, they should maintain their strength and keep their dominant left-hander.
Christian Petersen/Getty Images
He is big, bad, reliable, a bullpen saver, and can even hit a little bit.
While he lacks the glitz and glamor of a Brian Wilson or Tim Lincecum, Guillermo Mota has been indispensable to the Giants in 2011. The quality innings he has been able to throw at age 38 has been remarkable.
Age has not compromised Mota's snap on his pitches either—in fact, Mota has been throwing with more pop. This season, Mota has a 3.92 ERA, but has pitched 61.2 innings in 40 appearances, with 58 strikeouts and just 20 walks.
During the course of a 162-game marathon season, a solid long reliever could be invaluable to a team. Although Mota's upper-90s days are past him, he could find a role in San Francisco next season as the league's best mop-up man.
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images
While he lacks the glitz and glamor of a Brian Wilson or Tim Lincecum, Guillermo Mota has been indispensable to the Giants in 2011. The quality innings he has been able to throw at age 38 has been remarkable.
Age has not compromised Mota's snap on his pitches either—in fact, Mota has been throwing with more pop. This season, Mota has a 3.92 ERA, but has pitched 61.2 innings in 40 appearances, with 58 strikeouts and just 20 walks.
During the course of a 162-game marathon season, a solid long reliever could be invaluable to a team. Although Mota's upper-90s days are past him, he could find a role in San Francisco next season as the league's best mop-up man.
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images
With the Giants looking at Brandon Crawford as their shortstop of the future, they may want a veteran right-handed backup with playoff experience off their bench.
Orlando Cabrera, while not lighting it up with his .240 batting average this season, can be a valuable asset to any club making a postseason run. Cabrera has reached the postseason six out of the last seven years, including a World Series Championship ring with the Boston Red Sox in 2004.
Although he is more suited for a bench role at this stage of his career, injuries and necessity have forced Cabrera into a starting position at shortstop.
While his .228 career postseason batting average seems unimpressive, Cabrera is still capable of getting a big hit off the bench. He has a .417 batting average in 12 at-bats with the bases loaded this season.
As Giants' broadcaster Mike Krukow said of Cabrera: The bigger the at-bat, the more dangerous he is.
Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images
Orlando Cabrera, while not lighting it up with his .240 batting average this season, can be a valuable asset to any club making a postseason run. Cabrera has reached the postseason six out of the last seven years, including a World Series Championship ring with the Boston Red Sox in 2004.
Although he is more suited for a bench role at this stage of his career, injuries and necessity have forced Cabrera into a starting position at shortstop.
While his .228 career postseason batting average seems unimpressive, Cabrera is still capable of getting a big hit off the bench. He has a .417 batting average in 12 at-bats with the bases loaded this season.
As Giants' broadcaster Mike Krukow said of Cabrera: The bigger the at-bat, the more dangerous he is.
Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images
Friday, August 12, 2011
2011 MLB Season: 6 Teams, 6 Keys to the National League Pennant
The 2010 San Francisco Giants will wear their championship rings proudly for the rest of their lives.
Pool/Getty Images
Pool/Getty Images
By Vince Cestone
The 2010 San Francisco Giants won the National League Pennant, and then the World Series, with superb pitching, just enough hitting, and virtually error-free baseball--three keys to success for just about any winning team.
This year is no exception for National League Contenders. These canons for success, along with many more, could be a major factor in determining who will win the National League Crown--or even reach the postseason.
Deviating from playing good baseball, even for a week's stretch of games, could be the difference between achieving baseball immortality or going home hanging your head. With strong, well-rounded teams like the Philadelphia Phillis dominating the league with a 77-40 record, any contending team that slumps in any facet of the game come the NLDS or NLCS will probably suffer a disappointing fate.
With eyes on the World Series prize, here are some keys to the National League pennant for all six contending teams.
Stephen Dunn/Getty Images
This year is no exception for National League Contenders. These canons for success, along with many more, could be a major factor in determining who will win the National League Crown--or even reach the postseason.
Deviating from playing good baseball, even for a week's stretch of games, could be the difference between achieving baseball immortality or going home hanging your head. With strong, well-rounded teams like the Philadelphia Phillis dominating the league with a 77-40 record, any contending team that slumps in any facet of the game come the NLDS or NLCS will probably suffer a disappointing fate.
With eyes on the World Series prize, here are some keys to the National League pennant for all six contending teams.
1. The San Francisco Giants: The Offense
Stephen Dunn/Getty Images
The San Francisco Giants may be a strong contender in the National League West, but their offensive numbers are those of cellar dwellers.
With the Giants dead last in the league in runs scored with 402, the Giants are fortunate they are just one game back of the Arizona Diamondbacks in their division. Certainly, the key to success for San Francisco is to sustain their excellent pitching staff, but more importantly, they need to improve their hitting, especially their miniscule .303 team on-base percentage.
Giants' manager Bruce Bochy offered his own explanation as to why his team is stuck in this two-week rut.
"Right now, their confidence is shaken," Bochy said to the San Jose Mercury News. "And that comes from not having success."
If the Giants want to stay in contention and ultimately win the West, the Giants better find the confidence soon.
The Giants attempted to jolt their offense by acquiring Carlos Beltran from the New York Mets in exchange for pitching prospect Zack Wheeler. However, Beltran has struggled since joining San Francisco, hitting .244, with no home runs and two RBIs in 11 games.
The 2010 World Series champion Giants were at least in the middle-of-the-pack in hitting. That fateful team finished 9th in the league in runs scored, a far cry from this year's abysmal offensive team, who ranks near the bottom in just about every offensive category.
Despite the offensive struggles, Giants' outfielder Cody Ross is confident his team will turn around their offensive woes.
"We've got a lot of baseball to play yet," Cody Ross told the San Jose Mercury News. "We've got to go out and play like champions. We're not doing it. We're kind of all in a rut."
Christian Petersen/Getty Images
With the Giants dead last in the league in runs scored with 402, the Giants are fortunate they are just one game back of the Arizona Diamondbacks in their division. Certainly, the key to success for San Francisco is to sustain their excellent pitching staff, but more importantly, they need to improve their hitting, especially their miniscule .303 team on-base percentage.
Giants' manager Bruce Bochy offered his own explanation as to why his team is stuck in this two-week rut.
"Right now, their confidence is shaken," Bochy said to the San Jose Mercury News. "And that comes from not having success."
If the Giants want to stay in contention and ultimately win the West, the Giants better find the confidence soon.
The Giants attempted to jolt their offense by acquiring Carlos Beltran from the New York Mets in exchange for pitching prospect Zack Wheeler. However, Beltran has struggled since joining San Francisco, hitting .244, with no home runs and two RBIs in 11 games.
The 2010 World Series champion Giants were at least in the middle-of-the-pack in hitting. That fateful team finished 9th in the league in runs scored, a far cry from this year's abysmal offensive team, who ranks near the bottom in just about every offensive category.
Despite the offensive struggles, Giants' outfielder Cody Ross is confident his team will turn around their offensive woes.
"We've got a lot of baseball to play yet," Cody Ross told the San Jose Mercury News. "We've got to go out and play like champions. We're not doing it. We're kind of all in a rut."
Christian Petersen/Getty Images
The Arizona Diamondbacks' 2010 Achille's heel is starting to become their strength.
A season ago, Arizona ranked dead last in the National League in bullpen ERA at 5.74. In 2011, the Diamondbacks rank 12th in that same stat at 3.83.
What makes their bullpen stats so impressive is they were third-to-last in the league in bullpen ERA as April ended (4.89). At the end of that month, they were 6.5 games out of first place and in fourth place.
Now, as their bullpen ERA has steadily shrunk as the months wore on, the Diamondbacks climbed up in the standings. The snakes currently find themselves in first place, one game ahead of the Giants.
Part of the Diamondbacks' bullpen resurgence could be attributed to the acquisition of closer J.J. Putz. In his first season with the Diamondbacks, Putz has a 2.90 ERA, with 27 saves and a 1.066 WHIP.
With their powerhouse offense that ranks first in the National League with 132 home runs, a shutdown bullpen would undoubtedly make Arizona one of the elite teams in the National League--even one that could challenge the Philadelphia Phillies.
Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images
A season ago, Arizona ranked dead last in the National League in bullpen ERA at 5.74. In 2011, the Diamondbacks rank 12th in that same stat at 3.83.
What makes their bullpen stats so impressive is they were third-to-last in the league in bullpen ERA as April ended (4.89). At the end of that month, they were 6.5 games out of first place and in fourth place.
Now, as their bullpen ERA has steadily shrunk as the months wore on, the Diamondbacks climbed up in the standings. The snakes currently find themselves in first place, one game ahead of the Giants.
Part of the Diamondbacks' bullpen resurgence could be attributed to the acquisition of closer J.J. Putz. In his first season with the Diamondbacks, Putz has a 2.90 ERA, with 27 saves and a 1.066 WHIP.
With their powerhouse offense that ranks first in the National League with 132 home runs, a shutdown bullpen would undoubtedly make Arizona one of the elite teams in the National League--even one that could challenge the Philadelphia Phillies.
Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images
The St. Louis Cardinals have a formidable foe to get past if they want to claim the National League pennant.
Even after tonight's 5-2 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers, the Cardinals are 3-8 against their divisional rival. In their most recent series, the Cardinals were able to salvage one game of the three-game series in St. Louis, pushing them up to four games behind Milwaukee.
Despite their struggles against them in 2011, Cardinals' slugger Albert Pujols said they do not see the Brewers as any different than others teams they play.
"We approach every team the same way," Pujols told Matthew Leach of MLB.com. "We have a game plan and we're going to go out there and hopefully try to execute. As a player, they pitch you different until you try to adjust. But I think, as a group, we have a good approach to go out there and take it and figure it out the first couple innings. If it doesn't work, hopefully try to make an adjustment."
If the red birds want to win the NLCS, or even get there, they must climb over their four-game hurdle against the Brewers. It starts with beating their rival head-to-head.
Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images
Even after tonight's 5-2 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers, the Cardinals are 3-8 against their divisional rival. In their most recent series, the Cardinals were able to salvage one game of the three-game series in St. Louis, pushing them up to four games behind Milwaukee.
Despite their struggles against them in 2011, Cardinals' slugger Albert Pujols said they do not see the Brewers as any different than others teams they play.
"We approach every team the same way," Pujols told Matthew Leach of MLB.com. "We have a game plan and we're going to go out there and hopefully try to execute. As a player, they pitch you different until you try to adjust. But I think, as a group, we have a good approach to go out there and take it and figure it out the first couple innings. If it doesn't work, hopefully try to make an adjustment."
If the red birds want to win the NLCS, or even get there, they must climb over their four-game hurdle against the Brewers. It starts with beating their rival head-to-head.
Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images
As the old adage says, good teams take care of business at home and play .500 on the road. Well, the Brewers got it half right--with an exclamation point.
Milwaukee boasts the best home record in baseball with a 41-15 record. As for playing .500 on the road, the Brewers have a long way to go.
Their 26-36 road record is not hurting them now, as they sit in first place four games ahead of the St. Louis Cardinals, but it could have a detrimental effect come the playoffs.
If the Brewers do make the playoffs, they will have to pass through some hostile towns--Philadelphia, San Francisco, or Atlanta. This season, Milwaukee is just 3-7 against those three teams on the road.
A little road warrior spirit would go a long way towards the Brewers' march to the NL pennant.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Milwaukee boasts the best home record in baseball with a 41-15 record. As for playing .500 on the road, the Brewers have a long way to go.
Their 26-36 road record is not hurting them now, as they sit in first place four games ahead of the St. Louis Cardinals, but it could have a detrimental effect come the playoffs.
If the Brewers do make the playoffs, they will have to pass through some hostile towns--Philadelphia, San Francisco, or Atlanta. This season, Milwaukee is just 3-7 against those three teams on the road.
A little road warrior spirit would go a long way towards the Brewers' march to the NL pennant.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Jason Heyward sparked lots of excitement in Atlanta last year, and he looked like their future offensive star, but the old sophomore slump has plagued the tall outfielder.
After coming off a solid rookie season--.277, 18 homers, and 72 RBIs in 142 games played--Heyward is not enjoying much success in his second year in the big leagues. In 2011, he is hitting just .218, with 12 home runs and 30 RBIs.
Heyward was an on-base machine last year with a .393 OBP, but in 2011, that stat has fallen dramatically to .313. With the Phillies dominating the National League, and their division, the Braves will need every ounce of offense to get through a Philadelphia staff that is a bit better than their own.
With Heyward's struggles, hot-hitting rookie Jose Constanza has recently replaced Heyward in the outfield for a few games.
Although he is disappointed he is not starting as much right now, Heyward knows he will be that spark plug again.
“Now that I have a little bit more free time, I’m able to clear my head some more and get rest,” Heyward said to the Atlantic Journal Constitution. “It’s positive. Everybody sees I’m the same guy in the clubhouse. It’s not about me. I’m here for the long run, and hopefully I can get back to where I’m producing on a daily basis.”
Harry How/Getty Images
After coming off a solid rookie season--.277, 18 homers, and 72 RBIs in 142 games played--Heyward is not enjoying much success in his second year in the big leagues. In 2011, he is hitting just .218, with 12 home runs and 30 RBIs.
Heyward was an on-base machine last year with a .393 OBP, but in 2011, that stat has fallen dramatically to .313. With the Phillies dominating the National League, and their division, the Braves will need every ounce of offense to get through a Philadelphia staff that is a bit better than their own.
With Heyward's struggles, hot-hitting rookie Jose Constanza has recently replaced Heyward in the outfield for a few games.
Although he is disappointed he is not starting as much right now, Heyward knows he will be that spark plug again.
“Now that I have a little bit more free time, I’m able to clear my head some more and get rest,” Heyward said to the Atlantic Journal Constitution. “It’s positive. Everybody sees I’m the same guy in the clubhouse. It’s not about me. I’m here for the long run, and hopefully I can get back to where I’m producing on a daily basis.”
Harry How/Getty Images
Monday, August 8, 2011
Pittsburgh Pirates – San Francisco Giants Series Preview
By Jimmy Morocco
Kickin’ it Old School
The Pittsburgh Pirates seem to be in a funk lately that they can’t shake. Some fans are being reminded of the failures of recent years with the recent losing streak. Matt Diaz held a team meeting on Saturday and what was discussed wasn’t known, but it had to have been centered on the team’s recent performance.
A lot of people made a mockery of Diaz being the one to call the meeting because of his “singles only” performance this year. But, the guy is a leader in the locker room. That is for sure.
It may have not sunk in on Sunday for these young Bucs as the losing continued, but whatever was said will hopefully sink in against the San Francisco Giants when the Buccos face off against the NL West leaders.
A Closer Look at the Enemy
The Giants’ offense has looked awful since losing Buster Posey to a broken ankle on May 25. They are at the bottom of the league in virtually every offensive category. Former Bucco Freddy Sanchez’s shoulder surgery didn’t help the offense much either.
Pablo Sandoval has been the lone bright spot for a depleted Giants’ lineup this year. He is hitting for a .315/.354/.516 line in 279 ABs on the year. That includes 12 home runs, 18 doubles, and a surprising triple for the massive man they call “Pablo the Panda.”
Two trade deadline acquisitions should also help to bolster the Giants’ lineup. Jeff Keppinger’s .307 BA should help the cause and he should fill in nicely for the injured Sanchez. Carlos Beltran also went to the Giants as the biggest trade chip moving at the deadline. Beltran has a .284/.378/.495 line in 398 ABs on the year.
The Giants have a ridiculously good pitching rotation this year led by the surprising Ryan Vogelsong. The Pirates won’t have to see two of the best of that rotation in Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain.
One of the most interesting players in the game will be in the Giants’ bullpen. Brian Wilson, the Giants closer, has been having a tremendous season with a 2.77 ERA and a .231 BAA. He has only walked 28 batters in 52 IP to go along with 48 strikeouts. Wilson has collected 34 saves, which is tied for the MLB lead with Atlanta Braves closer Craig Kimbrel.
Pitching Matchups
Monday 10:15 pm- Charlie Morton (8-6) 3.80 ERA vs Ryan Vogelsong (9-1) 2.19 ERA
Tuesday 10:15 pm- James McDonald (7-5) 4.23 ERA vs Madison Bumgarner (6-11) 3.71 ERA
Wednesday 3:45 pm- Jeff Karstens (8-6) 3.05 ERA vs Jonathan Sanchez (4-6) 4.10 ERA
The Opposing Hurlers
Ryan Vogelsong
Does this name sound familiar? Ryan Vogelsong used to be in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ system for five years. He was actually originally traded from the San Francisco Giants to the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Jason Schmidt and John Vander Wal deal. The Pirates also received Armando Rios.
Vogelsong was considered a major bust with the Pirates and he was promptly released after the 2006 season. He didn’t even play in the MLB from 2007 to 2009. He had a couple short stints with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and then was signed by the Giants where he decided to realize his potential that was always there.
Vogelsong got his opportunity when he replaced the injured Barry Zito and hasn’t even come close to relinquishing his spot. He now owns the NL’s best ERA, sitting at 2.19. He’s also only giving up a .240 BAA on the year.
Those numbers may be skewed a little bit as he is sitting at a .274 BABIP (Batting Average on Balls in Play). That’s not a terrible number, but there is definitely some luck on his side.
Madison Bumgarner
Madison Bumgarner is one of the good, young players in the game today. Bumgarner just turned 22 years old this month. Last year was his first full season and he put up a 3.00 ERA over 111 innings with a 26/86 BB/K ratio.
Bumgarner still has a poor record, but don’t be fooled. Bumgarner has received virtually no run support this year from a lack-luster, Buster Posey-less offense. Bumgarner faced the Phillies last time out and gave up two homers, but that’s all. He struck out seven over six innings but still gathered a loss because of no run support whatsoever.
Jonathan Sanchez
Jonathan Sanchez is a testament to how good the rotation has been this year for the Giants. Sanchez has a 4.10 ERA this year, which is the worst out of the five members of the starting rotation.
Sanchez is just now recovering from an injury. He pitched his first game since returning from being injured on Friday and he pitched three fantastic innings. In the fourth, however, his velocity took a dip and he lost his command as well. That’s not good for a pitcher coming back from an injury. So, it is yet to be seen how well Sanchez will pitch against the Pirates.
Sanchez has a career 5.17 ERA against the Pirates.
San Francisco Giants
399 Runs Scored (16th)
72 Home Runs (14th)
3.18 Team ERA (2nd)
71 Home Runs Allowed (1st)
Pittsburgh Pirates
431 Runs Scored (12th)
75 Home Runs (12th)
3.73 Team ERA (5th)
108 Home Runs Allowed (t-9th)
A lot of people made a mockery of Diaz being the one to call the meeting because of his “singles only” performance this year. But, the guy is a leader in the locker room. That is for sure.
It may have not sunk in on Sunday for these young Bucs as the losing continued, but whatever was said will hopefully sink in against the San Francisco Giants when the Buccos face off against the NL West leaders.
A Closer Look at the Enemy
The Giants’ offense has looked awful since losing Buster Posey to a broken ankle on May 25. They are at the bottom of the league in virtually every offensive category. Former Bucco Freddy Sanchez’s shoulder surgery didn’t help the offense much either.
Pablo Sandoval has been the lone bright spot for a depleted Giants’ lineup this year. He is hitting for a .315/.354/.516 line in 279 ABs on the year. That includes 12 home runs, 18 doubles, and a surprising triple for the massive man they call “Pablo the Panda.”
Brian Wilson is one of the most interesting personalities in baseball.
The Giants have a ridiculously good pitching rotation this year led by the surprising Ryan Vogelsong. The Pirates won’t have to see two of the best of that rotation in Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain.
One of the most interesting players in the game will be in the Giants’ bullpen. Brian Wilson, the Giants closer, has been having a tremendous season with a 2.77 ERA and a .231 BAA. He has only walked 28 batters in 52 IP to go along with 48 strikeouts. Wilson has collected 34 saves, which is tied for the MLB lead with Atlanta Braves closer Craig Kimbrel.
Pitching Matchups
Monday 10:15 pm- Charlie Morton (8-6) 3.80 ERA vs Ryan Vogelsong (9-1) 2.19 ERA
Tuesday 10:15 pm- James McDonald (7-5) 4.23 ERA vs Madison Bumgarner (6-11) 3.71 ERA
Wednesday 3:45 pm- Jeff Karstens (8-6) 3.05 ERA vs Jonathan Sanchez (4-6) 4.10 ERA
The Opposing Hurlers
Ryan Vogelsong
Does this name sound familiar? Ryan Vogelsong used to be in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ system for five years. He was actually originally traded from the San Francisco Giants to the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Jason Schmidt and John Vander Wal deal. The Pirates also received Armando Rios.
Ryan Vogelsong is finally making a name for himself.
Vogelsong got his opportunity when he replaced the injured Barry Zito and hasn’t even come close to relinquishing his spot. He now owns the NL’s best ERA, sitting at 2.19. He’s also only giving up a .240 BAA on the year.
Those numbers may be skewed a little bit as he is sitting at a .274 BABIP (Batting Average on Balls in Play). That’s not a terrible number, but there is definitely some luck on his side.
Madison Bumgarner
Madison Bumgarner is one of the good, young players in the game today. Bumgarner just turned 22 years old this month. Last year was his first full season and he put up a 3.00 ERA over 111 innings with a 26/86 BB/K ratio.
Bumgarner still has a poor record, but don’t be fooled. Bumgarner has received virtually no run support this year from a lack-luster, Buster Posey-less offense. Bumgarner faced the Phillies last time out and gave up two homers, but that’s all. He struck out seven over six innings but still gathered a loss because of no run support whatsoever.
Jonathan Sanchez
Jonathan Sanchez is a testament to how good the rotation has been this year for the Giants. Sanchez has a 4.10 ERA this year, which is the worst out of the five members of the starting rotation.
Sanchez is just now recovering from an injury. He pitched his first game since returning from being injured on Friday and he pitched three fantastic innings. In the fourth, however, his velocity took a dip and he lost his command as well. That’s not good for a pitcher coming back from an injury. So, it is yet to be seen how well Sanchez will pitch against the Pirates.
Sanchez has a career 5.17 ERA against the Pirates.
By the Numbers (National League)
399 Runs Scored (16th)
72 Home Runs (14th)
3.18 Team ERA (2nd)
71 Home Runs Allowed (1st)
Pittsburgh Pirates
431 Runs Scored (12th)
75 Home Runs (12th)
3.73 Team ERA (5th)
108 Home Runs Allowed (t-9th)
Notes and Tid Bits
- The Pirates are 0-10 in their last ten games. They are 54-59 overall and are in fourth place in the NL Central and trail the first place Brewers by ten games.
- The Giants are 2-8 in their last ten games. They are 63-52 overall and are in first place in the NL East.
- Jose Tabata re-started his rehab assignment with AAA Indianapolis two days ago. He has gone 2-5 with two walks. He’s only struck out once.
- Chase d’Arnaud has also started his rehab assignment after going on the DL with an injured pinky finger. d’Arnaud went 1-3 with a stolen base playing for the Bradenton Marauders.
- The Buccos may be struggling, but closer Joel Hanrahan has continued to be absolutely dominant. He has only given up two earned runs since June 7. He has only walked four batters in that period. He now owns a 1.08 ERA and a 0.90 WHIP.
For more great articles, check out Slew Footers.
Carlos Beltran is out of the lineup for Giants
By
Beltran came out of Sunday’s 3-1 win over the Phillies after experiencing a sharp pain in the top of his hand while striking out swinging to end the sixth inning. X-rays were negative but Beltran had a hard time gripping the bat.
Nate Schierholtz was starting in right in place of Beltran, batting fifth.
Beltran was listed as day to day. He is batting .244 with a double, two triples and two RBIs in 11 games for the Giants since being acquired in a trade from the Mets on July 28.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Quick Reaction: Giants Acquire Beltran
The most sought after player on the trading block in 2011 was Carlos Beltran, and there's no doubt about that. There were several teams in on the bidding of Beltran, according to reporters such as Ken Rosenthal and Jon Heyman, ranging from the Phillies, Braves, Rangers, Red Sox, and of course, the Giants.
If you like to keep it short and simple, here it is: the Giants have the worst offense among all playoff contenders after the loss of Buster Posey, and Brian Sabean has recognized the transformation his team has gone though in a short period.
The Giants are now reaching a rare point in a franchise that's outside of Boston and New York- They're selling out every game as the defending World Series Champions with extreme ease. They have also been overcoming injuries and "over-achieving," proclaimed by their own GM.
That statement alone was the main reason why I was no where near surprised when I woke up today, logged on to my Twitter account, and came to realize what was happening- Brian Sabean, yes Brian Sabean, accepted a deal for a rental player, trading away one of his top pitching prospects, Zack Wheeler.
Sabean doesn't prefer trading away top prospects as he's shown, though he seems to have quite a strong judgement on the players that he's moving- here's a list: Lorenzo Barcelo, Keith Foulke, Bobby Howry, Jim Stoops, Ken Vining, Jason Brester, Darin Blood, Mike Villano, Mike Pageler, Joe Fontenot, Nate Bump, Jason Grilli, Todd Ozias, Francisco Liriano, Tim Alderson (courtesy of GoldenGateGiants.com).
If you like to keep it short and simple, here it is: the Giants have the worst offense among all playoff contenders after the loss of Buster Posey, and Brian Sabean has recognized the transformation his team has gone though in a short period.
The Giants are now reaching a rare point in a franchise that's outside of Boston and New York- They're selling out every game as the defending World Series Champions with extreme ease. They have also been overcoming injuries and "over-achieving," proclaimed by their own GM.
That statement alone was the main reason why I was no where near surprised when I woke up today, logged on to my Twitter account, and came to realize what was happening- Brian Sabean, yes Brian Sabean, accepted a deal for a rental player, trading away one of his top pitching prospects, Zack Wheeler.
Sabean doesn't prefer trading away top prospects as he's shown, though he seems to have quite a strong judgement on the players that he's moving- here's a list: Lorenzo Barcelo, Keith Foulke, Bobby Howry, Jim Stoops, Ken Vining, Jason Brester, Darin Blood, Mike Villano, Mike Pageler, Joe Fontenot, Nate Bump, Jason Grilli, Todd Ozias, Francisco Liriano, Tim Alderson (courtesy of GoldenGateGiants.com).
| Year | Age | Tm | Lg | Lev | Aff | G | GS | CG | SHO | IP | H | R | ER | HR | BB | SO | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 20 | Augusta | SALL | A | SFG | 3.99 | 21 | 13 | 0 | 0 | 58.2 | 47 | 27 | 26 | 0 | 38 | 70 | 1.449 | 0.0 | 5.8 | 10.7 | 1.84 |
| 2011 | 21 | San Jose | CALL | A+ | SFG | 3.99 | 16 | 16 | 0 | 0 | 88.0 | 74 | 44 | 39 | 7 | 47 | 98 | 1.375 | 0.7 | 4.8 | 10.0 | 2.09 |
| 2 Seasons | 3.99 | 37 | 29 | 0 | 0 | 146.2 | 121 | 71 | 65 | 7 | 85 | 168 | 1.405 | 0.4 | 5.2 | 10.3 | 1.98 | |||||
As Adam Foster explains in his scouting report, Zack Wheeler looks like he has a bright future as a Major League starter, but "his upside, which he could still be 3-4 years from reaching, is as a very good No. 2 starter and maybe even an ace for stretches of time."
Beltran is hitting .289/.391/.513 with 15 home runs in 419 plate appearances with a wOBA of .392, OPS of .904, and wRC+ of 152, in what has already become his healthiest season since 2008. Beltran is sleighed to hit 3rd in front of Sandoval, and without a doubt, will become the Giants' best offensive player by any measure you look at outside of speed.
Beltran wasn't added to help in the NL West race. Their pitching alone combined with "enough"-- if you like to call it that-- offense will get them the NL West title for a second year in a row. What Beltran was added for was October-- the original reason the Mets signed him to that lengthy and expensive contract. If Beltran can have steady success in the 40-50 AB's he'll get in the playoffs with the Giants, that would make this deal a success in the minds of any Giants fan--and the front office.
The catch with Beltran that most people already understand is that he's a rental player in every aspect--free agent after this season, a Scott Boras client, and non-arbitration eligible (meaning the Giants will get no draft picks in return for Beltran--who without a doubt will be a Type-A free agent--at the end of the season).
I have to trust Sabean on this one despite how others may feel about him. He's come to terms with the current position his team is in and either a) has settled on the fact that Wheeler's ceiling is not very high, as he's done in the past or b) simply was willing to pay the price of a future front-of-the-rotation type pitcher to strengthen this team's chances this season.
While I believe that Wheeler was a bit much to pay for Beltran, if it works out the way that Brian Sabean has clearly forecasted, then the price was ultimately right. There's simply a difference between a Single-A prospect with "nasty" stuff and much improvement still to be made, than someone like Matt Moore of Tampa Bay's farm system--a Double-A prospect with filthy stuff, polished command, great numbers, and an overall MLB-ready demeanor.
I'm more on the side that Wheeler is "legit" and will be a "stud" some time in the future and despite feeling he's too high a price to pay, I have no issue with an exchange for another run at a World Series--because that's the ultimate goal.
I'll offer a simple conclusion with this: prospects are not guaranteed. That's why there's 50 rounds in the draft, scouts who get criticized to the ultimate degree, and many GM's who get questioned on a daily basis. To only a certain extent, can you project and predict.
I'm not going completely on either side with this one--I wanted a bat, but I liked Zack Wheeler. I'll probably be second guessing myself and Brian Sabean sometime in the future, but hey, that's baseball.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Lincecum bested in duel with Dodgers' Kershaw (via MLB.com)
By Chris Haft
SAN FRANCISCO -- Tim Lincecum, who's widely regarded as the Giants' ace, has inadvertently strengthened his grip on a dual distinction: hard-luck pitcher.
The Giants have been shut out eight times in Lincecum's 21 starts this season. He endured this fate most recently Wednesday, when the Los Angeles Dodgers handed him his first career 1-0 defeat.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Tim Lincecum, who's widely regarded as the Giants' ace, has inadvertently strengthened his grip on a dual distinction: hard-luck pitcher.
The Giants have been shut out eight times in Lincecum's 21 starts this season. He endured this fate most recently Wednesday, when the Los Angeles Dodgers handed him his first career 1-0 defeat.
Rumor Mill: Giants have diminishing interest in Carlos Beltran (via FeedCrossing.com)
By
According to Andy Martino of the NY Daily News, the San Francisco Giants openly flirted with Carlos Beltran when the New York Mets visited San Francisco this month, and closer Brian Wilson recruited the Mets' outfielder at the All-Star Game, but the teams are experiencing difficulty matching up in a trade.
According to a person with knowledge of the Giants’ thinking, San Francisco’s current position is that it is willing to assume most or all of the $6 million owed to Beltran for the remainder of the season, but does not want to part with a high-end prospect in exchange for a half-season rental. The Mets, as we know, are holding out for talent, and are willing to pay the salary.
This is a reversal for San Francisco; earlier in the season, Giants insiders said that the team had limited in-season payroll flexibility. But due to robust attendance and other factors, the team appears more interested in spending than in diminishing its farm system, the source said Thursday.
Although the clubs’ respective positions are currently at odds, trade-season dialogue is fluid, and the source left open the possibility that the Giants could reconsider their position and ultimately send the Mets a top prospect for Beltran. At this time, however, they are opposed to that idea, according to the source.
One of many other Beltran suitors, the Phillies, are in the opposite position. Close to the luxury tax threshold, Philadelphia cannot add significant payroll, and therefore must be open to dealing a prospect to acquire Beltran. Phillies scouts have followed the Mets intermittently for at least a month.
Check out more from the Mets Chronicle.
According to Andy Martino of the NY Daily News, the San Francisco Giants openly flirted with Carlos Beltran when the New York Mets visited San Francisco this month, and closer Brian Wilson recruited the Mets' outfielder at the All-Star Game, but the teams are experiencing difficulty matching up in a trade.
According to a person with knowledge of the Giants’ thinking, San Francisco’s current position is that it is willing to assume most or all of the $6 million owed to Beltran for the remainder of the season, but does not want to part with a high-end prospect in exchange for a half-season rental. The Mets, as we know, are holding out for talent, and are willing to pay the salary.
This is a reversal for San Francisco; earlier in the season, Giants insiders said that the team had limited in-season payroll flexibility. But due to robust attendance and other factors, the team appears more interested in spending than in diminishing its farm system, the source said Thursday.
Although the clubs’ respective positions are currently at odds, trade-season dialogue is fluid, and the source left open the possibility that the Giants could reconsider their position and ultimately send the Mets a top prospect for Beltran. At this time, however, they are opposed to that idea, according to the source.
One of many other Beltran suitors, the Phillies, are in the opposite position. Close to the luxury tax threshold, Philadelphia cannot add significant payroll, and therefore must be open to dealing a prospect to acquire Beltran. Phillies scouts have followed the Mets intermittently for at least a month.
Check out more from the Mets Chronicle.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Jose Reyes makes rehab start, on the way back to Mets tomorrow? (via FeedCrossing.com); Do the San Francisco Giants Need to Make a Splash by the Trade Deadline?
By
Jose Reyes made the first stop today on what could be a very quick detour here, playing in a rehab game with the Brooklyn Cyclones.
The Mets shortstop was looking to prove that his left hamstring was healthy enough for him to get the call back up to Queens. Depending on how the Mets' brass evaluates his efforts today, he could removed from the disabled list and back with the big league team as early as Tuesday.
Reyes did nothing to earn any second-guessing, playing six full innings, with only one opportunity in the field.
He did show off his wheels in the bottom of the sixth inning. Reyes sent a well-hit ball off of Lowell Spinners pitcher Luis Diaz bouncing, off of the left-centerfield wall for a double. He effortlessly made his way to second base, coming in standing up. Reyes would end up scoring after a ground ball moved him over to third base, and a shallow fly ball dropped in to bring him home.
That was his only hit of the day, as he went 1-for-3 at the plate. Reyes flied out to centerfield leading off the game for the Cyclones in his first at-bat and grounded out to second in the third inning.
Source: Star Ledger
...
Vince here. While there was speculation that the Giants might look to acquire Jose Reyes or Carlos Beltran to improve their offense, I believe they should do so with caution.
After tonight's 5-0 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Giants are somehow 56-41, with a team batting average of .243 and an on-base percentage of .309.
The Giants do not need to mortgage their future to win the World Series again. They just need to make their offense passable, as they are winning games and leading the division by 3 1/2 games with an abysmal offense.
If the Giants could acquire Beltran or Reyes for cash consideration, they should by all means go for it. If either one comes at the price tag of a Brandon Belt or Zack Wheeler, the Giants should be reluctant to make the deal.
The Giants are a threat even with their current roster, so why deplete the farm system when they are almost good enough as they are?
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Carlos Beltran is one step closer to San Francisco? (via FeedCrossing.com)
By Dom DiFucci
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| Carlos Beltran could be on the move.. |
According to Mike Cardano at the X-Log:
The Mets lost to the first place Philadelphia Phillies Friday night 7-2 moving them back to the .500 mark at 46-46, 12 games off the pace in the NL East and 8.5 games back of the Atlanta Braves in the NL Wild Card race. With five teams in front of them, unless the Mets close out the last two weeks in July with a flurry and also close the gap in the Wild Card, you can be certain that the Mets will be sellers at the MLB Trading Deadline. Even if the Mets finish the month well above .500, if the teams ahead of them do well and they can meaningfully close the Wild Card gap, the Mets will still be sellers.Link: http://www.metschronicle.com/2011/07/rumor-mill-carlos-beltran-is-one-step.html
Bruce Bochy already has Beltran’s name written onto a lineup card playing right field and hitting clean-up for the San Francisco Giants. He’s just waiting to find out what date to put on the lineup card. That match between Beltran and the Giants is a perfect one for all sides. Beltran is a double’s machine, a perfect fit for the Giants anemic offense and San Francisco definitely has the prospects to give in return.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
My interview with the San Francisco Giants' 2009 Number 1 Draft Pick Zack Wheeler
I had the pleasure of interviewing the San Francisco Giants' first draft pick of 2009, Zack Wheeler. He is a good, young pitcher and would be a great addition to the Giants' stellar rotation.
The interview will tell you all you need to know about Mr. Wheeler. Be sure to leave a comment and tell me what you think.
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Friday, July 1, 2011
San Francisco Giants Notes: Pat Burrell sratched from lineup vs. Tigers
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| Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images |
San Francisco Giants' slugger Pat Burrell was scratched from the lineup with right-foot soreness during Friday night's game versus the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park.
Burrell was originally supposed to hit sixth in the Giants' Friday lineup as the designated hitter, but he was scratched just before the game. The news came via Jim Moorehead from the Giants' public relations department.
Bill Hall replaced Burrell as the designated hitter, hitting in the seventh spot.
Burrell is hitting .236 with seven home runs and 20 RBIs this season.
...
Is this do or die time for Bill Hall? The Giants have Brandon Belt and Mike Fontenot coming back soon, and someone will have to go. The consequence could be a left-out Bill Hall.
Hall is hitting just .223 with two home runs and 14 RBIs this season.
2011 Santa Clara Sports Law Symposium/FeedCrossing.com
Here is a nice event that is free for college students. Apparently, Bill Neukom and some ESPN people are going to be there. This is a great opportunity to network and discuss a topic especially salient since the Buster Posey injury--concussions in sports. Let me know if you're attending in a comment below.
...
By Sports Agent Blog
What: Santa Clara Law 2011 Sports Law Symposium
When: September 8, 2011 (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Where: Locatelli Center, Santa Clara University (map)
Topics: Concussions (Keynote: DeMaurice Smith, Executive Director, NFLPA), Steroids (Keynote: Mark Fainaru-Wada, ESPN Investigative Reporter), Labor Strife (Keynote: William B. Gould, IV, former Chairman of the National Labor Relations Board), and the Use of Player Images (Keynote: Sonny Vaccaro, Former Director of Basketball Programs at Nike, Adidas and Reebok).
The Reception speaker will be William Neukom, Managing Partner, San Francisco Giants, and Jim Brown will be an honored special guest at the event.
Other speakers include:
2011 Santa Clara Sports Law Symposium from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Agent News, Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Contract Negotiations, NCAA Rules and Regulations.
Link: http://www.sportsagentblog.com/2011/06/16/2011-santa-clara-sports-law-symposium/
...
By Sports Agent Blog
What: Santa Clara Law 2011 Sports Law Symposium
When: September 8, 2011 (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Where: Locatelli Center, Santa Clara University (map)
Topics: Concussions (Keynote: DeMaurice Smith, Executive Director, NFLPA), Steroids (Keynote: Mark Fainaru-Wada, ESPN Investigative Reporter), Labor Strife (Keynote: William B. Gould, IV, former Chairman of the National Labor Relations Board), and the Use of Player Images (Keynote: Sonny Vaccaro, Former Director of Basketball Programs at Nike, Adidas and Reebok).
The Reception speaker will be William Neukom, Managing Partner, San Francisco Giants, and Jim Brown will be an honored special guest at the event.
Other speakers include:
- Dan Coonan, Santa Clara University Athletic Director
- Bill Duffy, CEO of BDA Sports Management
- Dan Rascher, University of San Francisco Sports Management Professor
- Retired NFL players Ben Lynch and Shawn Stuckey
- Mike Gilleran, Former WCC Commissioner
- Don Gralnek, General Counsel of San Jose Sharks
- Paul Haagen, Co-Director of the Duke Law School Center for Sports Law and Policy
- Andy Schwarz, Sports Economist
- Professors Kevin Greene, Lateef Mtima and Tyler Ochoa
2011 Santa Clara Sports Law Symposium from Sports Agent Blog - Sports Agent News, Sports Business, Sports Law, Sports Contract Negotiations, NCAA Rules and Regulations.
Link: http://www.sportsagentblog.com/2011/06/16/2011-santa-clara-sports-law-symposium/
Baseball’s Halfway Questions/FeedCrossing.com
By Max Frankel, Sean Morash
This time, I thought we would have a little fun since today is the official half-way point of the year for 15-out-of-30 teams (the Giants being one of them). Here is another Feed Crossing article from two writers who made some insightful midyear predictions.
...
It’s the unofficial halfway point of the MLB season. How many of you knew that after tonight 15 of the league’s 30 teams will have played at least their 81st game, remember that 81 is half of 162? That means its time for the typical midseason questions (surprises etc).
Most Surprising Team?
Sean: For me this has to be the Twins. I know we think about surprises as generally positive things but I’m most surprised by the total ineptitude of the Twins thus far this year. If you had told me at the beginning of the year that the Twins would be in fourth place, and have a 34-45 record at the halfway point, I would have called you an idiot. They have to win 11 straight games just to pull within a half game of the slightly less surprising Pirates!
Max: It’s got to be the Pittsburgh Pirates. They’re a game over .500 and only three out in the NL Central. That’s pretty good for a team that hasn’t had a winning season since the Hoover Administration. Charlie Morton has 5 more wins than he did all of last season, Jeff Karstens’ ERA is below three, and Kevin Corriea has 10 wins. That’s surprising. (Honorable Mention: Seattle Mariners)
Most Surprising Player?
Sean: Lance Berkman. Berkman looked old, fat, and washed up at times last year when
he hit .248 with a career low 14 homers. This year? He’s been one of the best hitters in the game. On pace for 36 homers, and a .295 batting average, .404 OBP, and he’s playing a serviceable outfield.
Max: David Ortiz. I know it’s strange that we both picked resurgent veterans but I’m truly surprised by Ortiz. I honestly thought he was washed up. After the starts he’s had to the last two seasons and the the general mediocrity of last year as a whole, I though this year would be obvious evidence of a decline. Instead, Ortiz looks rejuvenated. His swing is back and pitchers just can’t get him out. He’s batting .307 with 17 HRs and even has his first stolen base since 2008.
Most Suprising Move:
Sean: Cardinals release Opening Day closer Ryan Franklin. Franklin played his way out of the closer’s role and then out of total usage for St Louis. He had an 8.36 ERA over his past 10 appearances (spanning 48 days) and really was bad, but to completely release a guy who was an All-Star closer in the past and has racked up some 92 saves over the past three years seems like the wrong roster move.
Max: The San Francisco Giants sending Brandon Belt Back to the minor leagues. It’s not surprising that they did it, it’s surprising that they had to. A lot of people thought Belt would be an impact player for San Francisco this season and really bolster the team. The Giants believed that so much they forced their top power hitter to change positions. Belt will be back, but early this season just wasn’t the right time for him.
Most Surprising Surprise?
Sean: The Year of the Dominant Pitcher. We knew offense was down last year and we knew that was a trend we may see going forward, but the difference has been astounding. Run scoring is down over a half a run per game from last year and over a run per game from 2009.
Max: I don’t know what to say. I don’t even understand the question.
Most Awesome Thing?
Sean: Logan Morrison calling out Brian Sabean for Scott Cousins. Part of the quote: “It’s ignorant, it’s inappropriate and he has no idea what the hell he’s talking about.” LoMo silenced most of the criticism and baseball nonsense that surrounded Cousins’ hard-nosed play that unfortunately ended in the Posey injury. We had no-no’s and three home run games, but we have that every year. Not every year do we have scandal like this.
Max: On June 20, Tim Hudson of the Atlanta Braves pitched 8 innings of shutout, two-hit baseball and whacked a two-run home run in route to a 2-0 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. For some reason, that reminds me of the story about Sandy Koufax waving in his outfielders and then infielders before striking a batter out to end an inning. Awesome.
Favorite Stat:
Sean: Cliff Lee had more RBI (2) in June than runs allowed (1) and he had 42.0 IP.
Max: The Yankees are 2.5 games up in the AL East (Yeah!! Woooo!)
Lamest Thing
Sean: The Phillies are in first. Count me among those who root against the Phillies. I make no bones about it and I was kinda hoping that the Phillies would get the Miami Heat treatment this year but they’re treated like
everyone else and still have the best record in baseball.
Max: Josh Hamilton, Josh Johnson, Buster Posey, Albert Pujols, Shin Soo Choo, Derek Jeter, and Carl Crawford, have missed or are missing extended time this season. Those guys are so much fun to watch that baseball is slightly worse without them in it. Get well soon guys, if not, for your teams than for the fans.
This time, I thought we would have a little fun since today is the official half-way point of the year for 15-out-of-30 teams (the Giants being one of them). Here is another Feed Crossing article from two writers who made some insightful midyear predictions.
...
It’s the unofficial halfway point of the MLB season. How many of you knew that after tonight 15 of the league’s 30 teams will have played at least their 81st game, remember that 81 is half of 162? That means its time for the typical midseason questions (surprises etc).
Most Surprising Team?
Sean: For me this has to be the Twins. I know we think about surprises as generally positive things but I’m most surprised by the total ineptitude of the Twins thus far this year. If you had told me at the beginning of the year that the Twins would be in fourth place, and have a 34-45 record at the halfway point, I would have called you an idiot. They have to win 11 straight games just to pull within a half game of the slightly less surprising Pirates!
Max: It’s got to be the Pittsburgh Pirates. They’re a game over .500 and only three out in the NL Central. That’s pretty good for a team that hasn’t had a winning season since the Hoover Administration. Charlie Morton has 5 more wins than he did all of last season, Jeff Karstens’ ERA is below three, and Kevin Corriea has 10 wins. That’s surprising. (Honorable Mention: Seattle Mariners)
Most Surprising Player?
Sean: Lance Berkman. Berkman looked old, fat, and washed up at times last year when
he hit .248 with a career low 14 homers. This year? He’s been one of the best hitters in the game. On pace for 36 homers, and a .295 batting average, .404 OBP, and he’s playing a serviceable outfield.
Max: David Ortiz. I know it’s strange that we both picked resurgent veterans but I’m truly surprised by Ortiz. I honestly thought he was washed up. After the starts he’s had to the last two seasons and the the general mediocrity of last year as a whole, I though this year would be obvious evidence of a decline. Instead, Ortiz looks rejuvenated. His swing is back and pitchers just can’t get him out. He’s batting .307 with 17 HRs and even has his first stolen base since 2008.
Most Suprising Move:
Sean: Cardinals release Opening Day closer Ryan Franklin. Franklin played his way out of the closer’s role and then out of total usage for St Louis. He had an 8.36 ERA over his past 10 appearances (spanning 48 days) and really was bad, but to completely release a guy who was an All-Star closer in the past and has racked up some 92 saves over the past three years seems like the wrong roster move.
Max: The San Francisco Giants sending Brandon Belt Back to the minor leagues. It’s not surprising that they did it, it’s surprising that they had to. A lot of people thought Belt would be an impact player for San Francisco this season and really bolster the team. The Giants believed that so much they forced their top power hitter to change positions. Belt will be back, but early this season just wasn’t the right time for him.
Most Surprising Surprise?
Sean: The Year of the Dominant Pitcher. We knew offense was down last year and we knew that was a trend we may see going forward, but the difference has been astounding. Run scoring is down over a half a run per game from last year and over a run per game from 2009.
Max: I don’t know what to say. I don’t even understand the question.
Most Awesome Thing?
Sean: Logan Morrison calling out Brian Sabean for Scott Cousins. Part of the quote: “It’s ignorant, it’s inappropriate and he has no idea what the hell he’s talking about.” LoMo silenced most of the criticism and baseball nonsense that surrounded Cousins’ hard-nosed play that unfortunately ended in the Posey injury. We had no-no’s and three home run games, but we have that every year. Not every year do we have scandal like this.
Max: On June 20, Tim Hudson of the Atlanta Braves pitched 8 innings of shutout, two-hit baseball and whacked a two-run home run in route to a 2-0 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. For some reason, that reminds me of the story about Sandy Koufax waving in his outfielders and then infielders before striking a batter out to end an inning. Awesome.
Favorite Stat:
Sean: Cliff Lee had more RBI (2) in June than runs allowed (1) and he had 42.0 IP.
Max: The Yankees are 2.5 games up in the AL East (Yeah!! Woooo!)
Lamest Thing
Sean: The Phillies are in first. Count me among those who root against the Phillies. I make no bones about it and I was kinda hoping that the Phillies would get the Miami Heat treatment this year but they’re treated like
everyone else and still have the best record in baseball.
Max: Josh Hamilton, Josh Johnson, Buster Posey, Albert Pujols, Shin Soo Choo, Derek Jeter, and Carl Crawford, have missed or are missing extended time this season. Those guys are so much fun to watch that baseball is slightly worse without them in it. Get well soon guys, if not, for your teams than for the fans.
Be sure to visit Off The Bench for more great baseball articles.
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