Monday a.m. things
by Adam J. Morris on Aug 18, 2008 9:45 AM CDT
140 comments
Back to a game below .500. Dustin Nippert looked terrific for a couple of innings, then got pounded. There was excitement at the end, although Brandon Boggs got screwed on a called strike that should have been a ball (and which would have brought Josh Hamilton up as the winning run, rather than the tying run, had Boggs walked).
Maybe the best news from yesterday was that Brandon McCarthy had his second straight stellar outing for Oklahoma, going 7 innings, allowing 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 7. Jeff Wilson points out that McCarthy's two strong outings have been against the two weak sisters of the PCL, and they may want to wait until they face the stronger hitting Iowa Cubs and see how McCarthy does against them in his next start before calling him up.
Richard Durrett says McCarthy could start on Saturday. Durrett also notes that Ian Kinsler has a groin injury, and will be evaluated today, although groin problems are one of those things that, it seems, rarely last just a day or two. And with German Duran hurt, the most obvious choice to replace Kinsler isn't available.
Hank Blalock will be playing first base when he returns, with Chris Davis moving to third base, and while Jon Daniels says Davis playing well at third base would give the team more options for next season, I'd be surprised if Davis is viewed as a legitimate long-term option at the position.
0 recs |
140 comments
Email
Print
Comments
They could play Blalock at second
Weren’t they going to do that when they thought MY wouldn’t hit enough to play 2nd?
On a serious note, how about Vallejo?
by texnykazrus on Aug 18, 2008 9:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He isn't ready
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dunham and Miller
Talked about the Rangers this morning, and drove me crazy. George kept talking about how he couldn’t understand why the team would move Davis to third to make room for Blalock, only giving lip service to the idea that giving Hank playing time would be necessary to trade him.
They also mentioned a terrible managerial decision in yesterday’s game (but didn’t go into it). I missed the game yesterday — did Wash do something particularly awful?
by jwiscarson on Aug 18, 2008 9:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps they were referencing
the walking of Hamilton with the bases loaded?
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see how giving Blalock
playing time to trade him makes much sense. Realistically, he isn’t going to get enough PT between now and September to convince anyone to trade for him.
Also, picking up his option almost guarantees you get nothing in return for him, because he probably isn’t worth the price of his option in the offseason.
What's the secret to a long life? "I masturbate a lot"-Ernest Borgnine. http://www.bestweekever.tv/2008/08/14/icymi-ernest-borgnine-reveals-his-secret-for-everlasting-youth/#onepage
by DJCahill on Aug 18, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
3B
According to MLB Trade Rumors, here is a list of 3B free agents (and those whose option could be declined) for 2009:
Rich Aurilia (37)
Casey Blake (35)
Hank Blalock (28) – $6.2MM club option for ’09 with a $0.25MM buyout
Joe Crede (31)
Nomar Garciaparra (35)
Wes Helms (33) – $3.75MM club option for ’09
Chipper Jones (37) – $8-11MM vesting option for ’09
Dallas McPherson (27)
Of this list, Blalock has the most offensive potential. Moreover, Blalock only has one year remaining, which means you minimize the risk in trading for him. Sure, you could probably pick up Aurilia or Garciaparra for a year, but would you really rather have them over Blalock?
by Excel Hearts Choi on Aug 18, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Of course...
…he’s not a 3B anymore…
by Adam J. Morris on Aug 18, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep.
I think thats the crux of it.
The list for 1B is
Player Club
First Basemen
Rich Aurilia SF
Ben Broussard TEX
Carlos Delgado * NYM
Nomar Garciaparra LAD
Jason Giambi * NYY
Wes Helms PHI
Kevin Millar BAL
Richie Sexson NYY
Mark Teixeira LAA
Frank Thomas OAK
Jim Thome CWS
Daryle Ward CHC
I think you could probably get a decent option for less than $6.5million.
What's the secret to a long life? "I masturbate a lot"-Ernest Borgnine. http://www.bestweekever.tv/2008/08/14/icymi-ernest-borgnine-reveals-his-secret-for-everlasting-youth/#onepage
by DJCahill on Aug 18, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thomas?
last night was proof that we need someone that can hit behind Josh
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think
that what everyone forgets about Blalock is that he’s just going to be 28. Yes, he has injury problems, but I’d still like to believe he can be a part of the future.
"Well, the Dallas Mavericks got beat by the New Orleans Hornets last night ending their season. Word is that someone on the team is dating Jessica Simpson." - Jay Leno
LSB facebook group ---->>> http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=33345329288
by hinduplaya on Aug 18, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd like to still believe
Angelina Jolie will dump Brad Pitt to be my sex toy for a month or two.
What's the secret to a long life? "I masturbate a lot"-Ernest Borgnine. http://www.bestweekever.tv/2008/08/14/icymi-ernest-borgnine-reveals-his-secret-for-everlasting-youth/#onepage
by DJCahill on Aug 18, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The future of what team?
The Rangers? Some other team with an opening at DH?
If the Rangers, where do you play him? Since he’s a f.a. after 2009 even if you exercise the option, how much do you pay him?
Hank Blalock has been one of my favorite players since I saw him in Round Rock in 2001, but even I have to acknowledge his time here has come and gone.
by Adam J. Morris on Aug 18, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably true
but if Blalock comes back and hits .300 and stays injury free at 1B from here on out, I bet the general consensus will change on him. The Rangers are in an awful place with him, because if they fail to pick up his option and he goes off and stays healthy next year, it will hurt all the more because of his previous prospect hype and fan favorite status.
The thing is, he is the exact player this team targets in free agency. He has a lot of talent, but his injury status lowers his market value. Just this past offseason, this team targeted and acquired Hamilton, Bradley, And Guardardo on the (relatively) cheap because of their previous injuries.
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and Jennings (can't win 'em all)
The point being, i think this team will not risk seeing him succeed elsewhere next year, and because of his talent, they will pick up the option and hope for the best. A lot will depend on how serviceable Davis looks at 3B.
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I see it the same way
Picking up Blalock’s option for next year really isn’t that much different than the one year contract to Bradley for this year, and that worked out pretty well.
Warner Madrigal makes Ezequiel Astacio look downright handsome.
by tricer on Aug 18, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Except
we didn’t have an OF on the books when we got Bradley. We do have a 1B.
What's the secret to a long life? "I masturbate a lot"-Ernest Borgnine. http://www.bestweekever.tv/2008/08/14/icymi-ernest-borgnine-reveals-his-secret-for-everlasting-youth/#onepage
by DJCahill on Aug 18, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That would be
fairly insanely stupid. Unless we got a Frontline starter prospect in return.
What's the secret to a long life? "I masturbate a lot"-Ernest Borgnine. http://www.bestweekever.tv/2008/08/14/icymi-ernest-borgnine-reveals-his-secret-for-everlasting-youth/#onepage
by DJCahill on Aug 18, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Delwyn Young
brought in Garza, and i would say Davis has shown more at the major league level than Young, by a large margin. not that i am advocating a trade, but yeah, Davis could bring in some serious young talent.
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
I’d say that Davis could land us the type of pitcher that we could slot at the front of the rotation. However, JD has had lots of trouble in identifying ML starting pitching. The idea of CD for a frontline starter makes a lot of sense, but JD’s track record really scares me.
Warner Madrigal makes Ezequiel Astacio look downright handsome.
by tricer on Aug 18, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
whoever he trades for...
…they should not be touched.
by oc on Aug 18, 2008 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Delmon, not Delwyn
but other that that, I agree with you.
by uthornfan on Aug 18, 2008 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley was coming off knee surgery
He was brought here primarily to DH, which is the role that Blalock will probably fill next year.
Warner Madrigal makes Ezequiel Astacio look downright handsome.
by tricer on Aug 18, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We already have Cat
as the DH who can’t hit lefties. Once they figured out that Blalock’s shoulder was hamburger meat, and he probably can’t play 3B, the idea of paying $6.5 for him gets less and less attractive.
What's the secret to a long life? "I masturbate a lot"-Ernest Borgnine. http://www.bestweekever.tv/2008/08/14/icymi-ernest-borgnine-reveals-his-secret-for-everlasting-youth/#onepage
by DJCahill on Aug 18, 2008 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hamilton wasn't cheap
Eddy is doing very well for the Reds this year. I think that trade is a win win for both teams though.
"Would you mind walking a time or two so I could drive in some runs"? Milton Bradley
by boomer1 on Aug 18, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you can't look at Edinson now
at the time, many baseball people (and people around here) were very skeptical about Volquez’s potential. Look at the way people now view Ian Kennedy for an idea of how Volquez was viewed at the time (granted, their stuff is different, but the difference in their minor league and major league effectiveness was essentially the same).
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think
…it was Volquez’s potential which made people doubt him, but the fact that he could not live up to his potential here.
by FuturePants on Aug 18, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you're correct
i misspoke. his potential was not so much in question as it was his ability to harnass his stuff and use it effectively at the big league level.
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Except
we normally target guys where we have vacancies. I’m not sure there is any room at the inn with CD at 1B.
If you think Blalock or CD can play 3B, that would be one thing. If you don’t believe either can, well, you are better off using that $6.5 and patching 3B, or SS, and moving MY to 3B.
What's the secret to a long life? "I masturbate a lot"-Ernest Borgnine. http://www.bestweekever.tv/2008/08/14/icymi-ernest-borgnine-reveals-his-secret-for-everlasting-youth/#onepage
by DJCahill on Aug 18, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How many years has it been since he hit .300 and stayed healthy?
Maybe Nolan Ryan can come back and throw two more no hitters. That would help our pitching.
by uthornfan on Aug 18, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
your sarcasm is admirable
but i think the likelihood of Blalock coming back and staying healthy for a month and a half while playing 1B and therefore not aggrevating his shoulder is greater than that of Ryan coming back and pitching two no hitters.
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand your point
But at least giving him playing time to trade him is more reasonable than, say, moving Chris Davis because you feel like it. That’s how George presented it this morning.
I think Hank still has a plus bat, but to have to move from 3B to 1B at the ripe old age of 28 due to injury concerns is not a good thing. I imagine that we get hosed no matter what happens.
by jwiscarson on Aug 18, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Arias???
Just sayin’…
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
"If you ain't got no money, ain't nobody calls you honey," Bo Diddley
by Rodney on Aug 18, 2008 9:56 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Arias?
If they’re desparate and Kinsler really can’t go might they call on Arias?
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 9:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Arias
I think he’d be the one to get the call.
by Adam J. Morris on Aug 18, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope he finally gets his chance
And proves we got something for the Afraud trade after Sori left.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
arias is out of the lineup for OKC
baseBALLIN!
by kevzta on Aug 18, 2008 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That definitely
has the feel of a major league motivated move.
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He can get here
just in time to help put the tarp on the field.
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blalock
What choice to they have really with him? His shoulder obviously is up to par with him playing third so first is the only real option, outside of just having him sit for the rest of the year. As long as Crush Davis stays in the lineup, I don’t really care where he’s playing.
by cgolden on Aug 18, 2008 10:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bmac's start
it should be available sometime today, hopefully…
http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/multimedia/video.jsp?cid=238&sid=t238
to me, abortion is not a religious issue, it's a common sense one...
by Longhorn on Aug 18, 2008 10:15 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think it’s ready now – Aug 17th game LINK
Compare his delivery to August 1st
by shroomer on Aug 18, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Night and Day
anyone know what kind of velocity he’s putting up there since “the session”
by Ryin A on Aug 18, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Comparing the two
seems like there was definitely a little more zip on the ball, though he’s not completely consistent with the delivery yet.
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I watched all 7 IP of August 17th
The only two gun readings I heard were 90 on a high swinging strike and 92 on the outside corner knee-high. The August 1st video has a gun reading of 89 in the 1st inning.
For someone I wrote off as a 2009 non-factor just a coupla weeks ago I’d have to say he looks just fine. He just needs to climb a major league mound every 5th day and avoid the D.L. Bring him up and let’s see if he doesn’t spontaneously combust.
by shroomer on Aug 18, 2008 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He never hit 90...
when I saw him here in July. It was all 88 and 89 with a low of 86/87 I do believe.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Aug 18, 2008 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
NR on Norm's Show
in 1 minute.
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
"If you ain't got no money, ain't nobody calls you honey," Bo Diddley
by Rodney on Aug 18, 2008 10:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He just called Sabathia "Sebastian"
awesome
by shroomer on Aug 18, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Get your legs into your delivery Sebastian!
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
More fastballs, more throwing.
I’m trying to work here too, anybody have a better recap than that?
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
"If you ain't got no money, ain't nobody calls you honey," Bo Diddley
by Rodney on Aug 18, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He said something about snow monkeys but it didn't make a whole lot of sense
by texnykazrus on Aug 18, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The bullpen coach is still
going to lead their Pacific Rim efforts.
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not alot of info
He said he wouldn’t push Hicks into signing some of the free agents until knowing the contract situation for them. He also, reiterated wanting to make pitchers work off the fastball, again this is great for those throwing like Ryan at 100, but this rotation is built with guys living at 90s so that doesnt seem right path. Also, interms of babying pitchers, wants to change the current trend of limiting pitchers, rather want them to get stronger and know their limits. I hope this does not cost us some pitchers through injury just for a a few extra innings in one season.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
100 mph
You don’t have to throw 100 mph to have an effective fastball.
by Excel Hearts Choi on Aug 18, 2008 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are right
If you can throw a 95-97 mph fastball then follow it up with a 82 mph change you will get plenty of guys out.
"Would you mind walking a time or two so I could drive in some runs"? Milton Bradley
by boomer1 on Aug 18, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who other than Nippert even avg over 95 in rotation?
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no starter in ML baseball
averages 95 mph on their fastball.
leaders in FB velocity:
Felix Hernandez 94.9
Ubaldo Jimenez 94.8
Josh Beckett 94.4
Ervin Santana 94.3
Tim Lincecum 94.3
Warner Madrigal makes Ezequiel Astacio look downright handsome.
by tricer on Aug 18, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is more reason to not just work off fastball, yet mixing pitches is key
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was my point
"Would you mind walking a time or two so I could drive in some runs"? Milton Bradley
by boomer1 on Aug 18, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Guardardo
works off his fastball, and he throws in the mid 80’s. Location and the ability to change speeds are huge.
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am talking about rotation
not one inning guys that can be change of pace players. Guys that will need to go through a lineup hopefully atleast 3 times.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The average fastball
in MLB is around 90 mph. All pitchers work off their fastball to a degree. Besides velocity, movement and location are obviously important, and how you mix in your other offerings.
Velocity is great, but it’s just one facet.
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we try to work off our fastball
but none of our starters have above-average off-speed stuff besides hurley
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, they might get injured.
Unlike EVERYBODY getting injured, like it is now.
It can’t get worse.
I Stole The Red Finger !
by Clueless on Aug 18, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we couldnt possibly have any more injuries
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Looks like Teagarden
had a big double in this morning’s game against China.
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 11:07 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Cool
he wasn’t playing at the end of the one Olympic baseball game I’ve seen (vs Canada). Stupid Olympics coverage, I DVR everywhere on my guide that says they’ll have the baseball games, and all I get is stupid beach volleyball and cycling. Yawn.
by JBImaknee on Aug 18, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
MSNBC
It is on MSNBC, and there is some more track cycling as well.
by Excel Hearts Choi on Aug 18, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
same here, how do you figure out when they really play?
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Friday night
Random story for the moring
Was at the bar Friday night and saw a white USA player take a ball to the face. After 5 minutes of panic, I learned it was “the other Nix” and had a nice sigh of relief
Plaschke: Scioscia, the former Dodgers catcher, is the model manager who has created an atmosphere of winning.
Junior:It's that simple. Mike Scioscia brings a Glade Plug-In labeled "Winning™" into the clubhouse and everyone who breathes it in gains 15 points in average.
by TheBZA on Aug 18, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read about that
Poor Jayson. Sounds like it was a really bad injury.
-- Micah
Baseball Is My Boyfriend
"Davis with 3 ribbies ... you can't hold a good man down." - LonestarJon
"Maybe not, but I'd like to." - Me
by baseballismyboyfriend on Aug 18, 2008 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That game vs China
lots of int’l agro. Guys tossed, LaPorta beaned in the helmet, Chinese catchers bulldozed. Should be worth scanning thru the archived video to see the conflict and strife.
by shroomer on Aug 18, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've been watching it here at work
no announcers (of course…) but just saw that LaPorta bean. This game is violent – I wouldn’t think that the crappy Chinese team would be so aggressive like that.
by JBImaknee on Aug 18, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The beauty is
since Westerners are coaching the Chinese team, they can blame it all on us.
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good thing
Georgia and Russia aren’t playing.
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Opinions
Two questions:
1) Is there room in the Clinton rotation next year for O’Campo, even with all the young talent currently pitching in Spokane?
2) Nippert apparently looked good last night for two innings. For those of you who have seen him pitch, is he worth keeping in the rotation for the remainder of the year, or does he have a better chance of sticking in a bullpen role?
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think some of the College guys that are bullpen will join Baks or A+ equivalent
Nippert might be better in pen.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nippert
I think he could be a good setup man. For some reason, he just can’t seem to put it together as a starter. His fastball is pretty good, but he seems to struggle with location, and can’t seem to command his curve. As a setup man, he could just let fly with the fastball, and stop trying to set hitters up.
by sggut95 on Aug 18, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i think he needs
a session with Nolan. if i recall, nolan threw a fastball and curveball as well.
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i like nippert out of the pen too
I think the Rangers are thinking that way too and this was a spot start.
by jcAustin on Aug 18, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
O'Campo
The Clinton roto will be tricky.
Tim Murphy is there now, and I could see him starting in Bakersfield next season. It’s possible that he goes back to Clinton, though.
From Spokane you have Ramirez, Perez, Pimentel, Boscan, Bleier.
From AZL: Wieland, O’Campo, Henry, de los Santos
Ross probably goes ahead and at least starts in extended ST whether he goes to Clinton or Spokane to start, but you never know.
And I’d like to think that Kirkman will be ready for High A as well, but it’s possible that he and/or Nevarez are factors.
I would project Ramirez, Perez, Boscan, Pimentel and Wieland, with O’Campo as the long guy and the next guy if someone is unavailable or can’t win a job. But a lot can happen between now and then.
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ross
I see him following the Neil Ramirez route next year. Start in Spokane once their season starts.
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Aug 18, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think
he’s somewhere between Ramirez and Beavan. I think he’s more advanced than Ramirez, needs fewer mechanical adjustments, and in fact, given what they did with Beavan’s delivery, he may be ahead of him a year ago developmentally too. I’d be surprised if he starts the season on Clinton, but I wouldn’t be that surprised if he goes to Clinton rather than Spokane after some time in Extended. He will have this entire fall instructionals, which will be a big plus. Of course, like we talk about above, that Clinton rotation could stay pretty crowded.
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Font
If he’s healthy, given the results so far, he’s got to be in Clinton. Obviously he’s still a cipher today.
Go Strangers.
by hightowersmith on Aug 18, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where is Font?
He was said to be recovering and should be pitching in Ari a few weeks ago, yet still not one sighting of him. I think at best he will be starting in Spokane and maybe pen in Clinton later into next year, a year of development behind his signing group.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jason Cole
saw him in AZ a coupla days ago watching the rookie league game.
by shroomer on Aug 18, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yay, finally some news
so he might be in a Ari scoreboard before Ross.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't forget lefty Grullion
He has been as dominant as Wieland in Ariz.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Another guy that were missing is Jacob Brigham?
Since he has been out with injury, where will he go next year, I would assume Ariz and then where? Baks equivalent or Clinton?
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if he learns that he has to throw his off-speed stuff then i say keep him in there and kick millwood out
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tonight's Farm Probs
check out the list:
http://my.calendars.net/farmprobs/
should be a great night for the minors thread. on a related note, has anyone seen phillips pitch this year in Bakersfield? Can he regroup in Frisco next year?
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 11:20 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It's been raining up here
I was thinking about going to see Holland again, but it’s pretty wet and supposed to rain more.
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe it's because they look
a little alike, but i wonder if Nippert could develop into a Scot Shields type for us…. a set-up guy that could come in at important times during the game, (not necessarily a 7th or 8th inning guy,) and maybe go two innings if you need it? Sort of like what the Electrician has been doing….. only hopefully a little better.
by jcAustin on Aug 18, 2008 11:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The overworked Rangers bullpen
has given up only 2 earned runs in the last 20.2 innings.
by jcAustin on Aug 18, 2008 11:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
...getting a day off tonight, you'd assume.
…with the exception of Loe, that would be three nights in a row to be rested.
by oc on Aug 18, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
"If you ain't got no money, ain't nobody calls you honey," Bo Diddley
by Rodney on Aug 18, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Going back to the pitching philosophy...
Here’s an excerpt from the Star-Telegram yesterday.
Hicks revealed that Ryan will oversee an overhaul in the way the organization approaches pitching, beginning with a conditioning regimen that will make the pitchers more durable and able to go deeper in games.
“He doesn’t believe in limiting your pitchers to 100 pitches a game,” Hicks said. “He wants our pitchers to be stronger and in better condition, and that sounds like a smart idea to me.”
Does this sound like a recipe for disaster to anyone else? Anybody heard of Dusty Baker and the wake of destruction he’s left behind him? Prior, Wood, now Harang. I respect Nolan, but doesn’t he realize he was a freak of nature, and can’t expect other pitchers to hold up like he did for so long?
by sggut95 on Aug 18, 2008 11:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Don't panic
Ryan is smart enough to know that not everyone can do what he did physically.
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Organizational change
Did Dusty’s organization (top to bottom) work on strengthening their pitchers to go longer in games, or did they have longer outings thrust upon them by Baker when he took over or they were promoted to the majors? I don’t think Dusty’s pitchers were ready for the workloads.
I’m not saying I agree with the Ryan philosophy. I just don’t think you can point to Baker and automatically say that pitchers going longer will destroy their arms.
Ryan wants pitchers to go longer and learn their limits. He doesn’t want them to pitch beyond their limits.
by NorCalRangersFan on Aug 18, 2008 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Poor Millwood
This could be nauseating for Milly to hear, but might be the best thing for his career at this point.
by laxtonto on Aug 18, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
sggut95
Can the injury situation possibly get worse than it is now?
Or has been the last few years?
I Stole The Red Finger !
by Clueless on Aug 18, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It has always been miserable with the pitching rotation
But the lineup has been pretty healthy last few years.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh
it could be worse.
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Bowden/Crow
I found this link on MLBTR. Bowden elaborates in depth about the communication with Crow’s agent. If you’re interested in this facet of the draft at all, I would recommend taking a look.
Plaschke: Scioscia, the former Dodgers catcher, is the model manager who has created an atmosphere of winning.
Junior:It's that simple. Mike Scioscia brings a Glade Plug-In labeled "Winning™" into the clubhouse and everyone who breathes it in gains 15 points in average.
by TheBZA on Aug 18, 2008 11:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
900K was difference in end
Nats need talent and this not a good excuse. Even though the agents weren’t helpful in getting their client a deal.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the Rangers were only 50K
apart from Zito when they drafted him.
"Would you mind walking a time or two so I could drive in some runs"? Milton Bradley
by boomer1 on Aug 18, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow.....Crowe it sounds like got screwed by his agents
This will probably cost Crowe millions just because he will have no leverage being a Sr, and has lost another productive year towards arbitration…
Stupid
by laxtonto on Aug 18, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He won't go back to college
he’s playing in Fort Worth.
But the point is the same – his leverage is all gone, and he’ll be lucky to get anywhere near what the Nats offered him this time around.
by JBImaknee on Aug 18, 2008 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with all of this
but it did work out for Hochevar didn’t it?
Offense doesn't doubt me, but my first and primemost thing is defense and punt return and kickoff return
by Brett Perryman on Aug 18, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Max Scherzer
granted, a different situation, but he seemed to come out okay in the end.
by clark on Aug 18, 2008 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Only thing about these 2
is one more year of really just wasting in IL, these guys could have been producing in MLBs this year, or atleast AAA and reading for MLB rotation next year.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But Hochevar
was a stupid pick by the Royals that year (they fell for Boras’s hype). Not to mention that Crow stood out because he was in a week college class. This year, Crow was one of two strong college arms (the other Matusz, who was arguably better than Crow and signed for much less than the Nats supposedly offered). Its early, but it is already evident that Crow won’t be the best pitcher available (that is definitely Strasburg right now).
by JBImaknee on Aug 18, 2008 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Was it just me
or did Nippert throw only 5 off-speed pitches all game. I think he threw all fastballs the first time through the lineup then the 2nd time his velocity was only at 92 instead of 96, and the Rays had seen him once so they were just sitting on the fastball. Laird should have been calling more curves or maybe Nippert didnt feel like he had his curve, hopefully next time he starts he will throw more off-speed pitches then he will succeed
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 12:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
This is where we Ryan's plan comes to effect
More fastballs after one time through the lineup is just stupid, MLB hitters get used to the speed and bash it. This common theme with our pitchers, the ones that have really mixed their pitches have lasted longer into the game. Ie, Harrison, Hurley before injury, Padilla with his 69 curve.
by gamerabcd on Aug 18, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As for kinsler
if his injury is serious then the Rangers should just forfeit the rest of their games and not have any more damn injuries. Then have everyone healthy next year on opening day
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 12:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Sounds flawless to me
"I’ll say something that doesn’t need context: anyone who is a Mariner’s fan is a douchebag." - FuturePants
by Chase Irwin on Aug 18, 2008 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and we get to draft Steven Strasburg
This plan has no drawbacks!
by JBImaknee on Aug 18, 2008 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
except for losing most casual fans, but hey who cares about them
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was your idea
originally, dumbass!
"...my balls are really like a veiny flesh color" blueballlefty on Jun 4, 2008 7:44 PM EDT
"you gonna lose your horse. seriously." FX2
"If you ain't got no money, ain't nobody calls you honey," Bo Diddley
by Rodney on Aug 18, 2008 5:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i knooooooooooooooooooooooooooow. i dont care about casual fans
Feliz and Hurley. The 1-2 punch of the future
by Steal Home on Aug 18, 2008 11:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shameless self-promotion
I took MJH’s excellent piece on McCarthy and tried to expand on it a bit with some damning quotes.
My favorite part: Mark Connor saying on 4/21/07 that Brandon had no mechanical issues, then changing his mind less than four days later and saying that he actually did, then prescribing a host of alterations.
by jamcadbury on Aug 18, 2008 1:59 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Nice work
stringing together all those old articles and quotes to present a big picture. It’s still very early in the “post-Ryan McCarthy bullpen session” era, and even if this is really the fixing of McCarthy it is going to take some time for him to find consistency in the delivery again. Let’s hope for the best.
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If that bullpen session...
…ends up turning BMac into the pitcher we thought we were trading for, then I’d say that all of Ryan’s detractors wouldn’t have a leg to stand on. McCarthy may be the most pivotal player in the system right now.
Warner Madrigal makes Ezequiel Astacio look downright handsome.
by tricer on Aug 18, 2008 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Was Nolan the only one at the bullpen session?
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Aug 18, 2008 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Andy Hawkins and Jim Colborn were also in attendance
by jamcadbury on Aug 18, 2008 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So wheres their credit?
Bryan Smith (12:17:17 PM PT): Justin Smoak and Josh Hamilton. The AL West might just have found their Bash Brothers, v. 2.0.
by bigsteve on Aug 18, 2008 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They were only there
to hold Ryan’s sausage.
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 5:43 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Detractors
I don’t think anyone here didn’t think Ryan did not have the ability to work with a pitcher and make helpful suggestions. But that is a VERY different skill than evaluating an entire minor league pitching philosophy, or running a major league franchise.
If there was anyone here who doubted Ryan’s ability to look at a pitcher, then yes, they do not have a leg to stand on. The jury is out on helping to turn around an entire organization.
Time you enjoy wasting was not wasted.
by t ball on Aug 18, 2008 5:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
Related FanPosts on Lone Star Ball
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Certain photos copyright © 2010 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
