Rangers sign Esteban German to a one year deal
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 6:44 PM CST
201 comments
The Rangers have signed Esteban German to a one year contract for 2010.
German was the only Ranger who was a non-tender candidate -- every other Ranger who is arbitration eligible was going to be tendered.
German will apparently go into camp vying for a bench job, and it may be that him re-signing means that Joe Inglett and his nearly-identical-to-German skill-set will be dropped from the 40 man roster when another spot is needed.
0 recs |
201 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
According to SI
it is suppose to be a split ($600K/$200K) contract. It is burried near the end of this link.
|Space for Rent|
by RangerMad on Dec 12, 2009 6:48 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
German
can play 3B too, so I like him more than Inglet. It’s a good deal.
Does this take care of our utility IF situation?
What’s left, maybe another starter (optional), another reliever (optional) and a tweener starter/backup catcher?
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 6:55 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
don't we need somebody on the roster that can play SS
and give Andrus a day off every week or two?
I think you have to have a backup SS and a backup CF on the roster. Unless they get somebody that can play both of those positions, I don’t see how German or Inglett can make the team.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 6:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
My guess is
Face would be considered the backup SS.
by BrentTaylor21 on Dec 12, 2009 6:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't understand the desire for a SS who can spell Andrus like that
Teams don’t give a franchise player 1-2 days off a week. I’m fine with spelling Andrus when he needs a rest but I’m not in favor of any “easing him in” in his 2nd year.
"Dying ain't hard. It’s living in the wake of a thorough public humiliation that’s hard.--JDT217
Internet greatness http://www.lonestarball.com/2009/11/10/1125340/will-carroll-calls-out-josey-wales
by WestTxAg06 on Dec 12, 2009 7:11 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
spelling Andrus when he needs a rest
regardless of how often you think that might be, there has to be someone on the roster that can do it. I don’t think you can play Esteban German at SS for 10 games or for 30.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 8:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Move Face to short and German at third and only when Harden starts...
Then hope he strikes out 20!!
In vino, veritas
by Winojohn on Dec 12, 2009 8:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
German
technically can play SS, though is predictably awful at it. Or we can sign someone like ANdres Blanco, who can play 2B/SS/3B. Either way, I think the utility IF should be all but done.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 7:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see how it's all but done
there is no SS option on the 40 man roster, so we still have to get one.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 8:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Joaquin Arias?
I don’t know, I think the question is what type of SS you’re talking about – a guy who can step in to play starter quality minutes if Andrus is out or a guy who can be a utility guy. If it’s the former, I don’t think the team will be able to afford it, if it’s the latter between Arias and German, we should be able to find someone.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 8:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
the way I think about it
you need a guy on the 25 man that could play 5 games in a row at SS, if Andrus jammed an ankle or something that was gonna keep him out a week, but less than 15 days.
The chances of something like that happening seem pretty good, and even if it doesn’t, I’d rather not play Andrus more than 140 games or so. I don’t see why you would ignore the fact that somebody has to be able to play the remaining 20 games. Personally, I wouldn’t build a roster that forced Esteban German or Joaquin Arias into the lineup at SS for that many games.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 8:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well
I think given the limits of our payroll, I think the best we can hope for is a utility SS who either gives decent offensive production or good defensive production (like Andres Blanco). I think between Arias, German, Inglett, and whoever else is on the market at SS, we can probably find one much more easily than we can find, say, a viable starting catcher.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 8:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
For reference
here’s the list of free agent SS
Shortstops
Eric Bruntlett (32)
Orlando Cabrera (35) – Type A, can’t be offered arb
Craig Counsell (39)
Chris Gomez (39)
Nick Green (31)
Khalil Greene (30)
Jerry Hairston Jr. (34)
Miguel Tejada (36) – Type A, not offered arb
I think Nick Green or Eric Bruntlett could be perfectly acceptable low budget guys to compete with our own guys for the utility IF position.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 8:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bruntlett can also give Borbon a day off now and then
And he’s not terrible against leftys
by tyd3311 on Dec 12, 2009 8:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Alfredo Amezaga
is another one.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 8:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Amezaga makes a lot of sense
He isn’t great offensively, but he is a terrific defensive player (career UZR/150 of 6.9 at 2B, 11.5 at SS, 19.5 in CF, 20.1 in the OF generally, etc).
He can play every single position, except catcher, with proficiency. He would be a viable option to backup both CF and SS. Plus, if you add someone as versatile as Amezaga, you could also add Ryan Garko to platoon with Davis at 1B. Garko has crushed lefties to a tune of .914 in 2007, .857 in 2008, and .870 in 2009.
Presuming Lowell is the starting DH, I would be happy with a bench of Teagarden, Garko, Murphy, and Amezaga. And I think even our limited budget could afford those type of low-cost additions.
by Stephen Rushin on Dec 13, 2009 2:33 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Getting Lowell pretty much defeats the point of getting Garko though, yes?
Also, I don’t want Mike Lowell as a full-time DH.
I failed my LSB ethics test.
"WHAT A SHITLOAD OF FUCK" - LL's "Poochie" on Rich Harden signing with Texas over Seattle
by lonestarJon on Dec 13, 2009 3:27 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No
First, Lowell doesn’t necessarily have to be the full-time DH. I’m sure most people here would prefer to platoon to some extent with Murphy. But I strongly doubt that Lowell will be used solely against lefties, with Wash as our manager. Lowell will probably be used as our primary DH and he will get about 450 AB if healthy. I think that is a fair observation, whether we like it or not.
Second, adding Lowell doesn’t make Garko useless; Garko could platoon with Davis at 1B, keeping Lowell mainly at DH and protecting him from injuries. Davis was absolutely horrible against lefties last season [.546 OPS]. And if we believe that Lowell is in a platoon situation with Murphy [.627 OPS vs. lefties], then you are probably going to have to play either Murphy or Davis against lefties regularly. We cannot accept .540-.630 OPS production from a 1B/DH spot versus lefties next season.
But if you add Garko, you could have Garko/Davis platoon at 1B and Lowell/Murphy platoon at DH. Based on their splits, that would be a solid platoon situation.
Of course all of that is contingent upon having an extremely versatile utility guy like Amezaga who can backup CF and SS. If you could add Amezaga and Garko, you could really improve the production from both DH and 1B next season without adding much payroll.
by Stephen Rushin on Dec 13, 2009 3:50 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
exactly
a guy like Amezaga allows us to have an extra bat on the bench because you don’t have to carry both a backup SS and a backup CF.
And like you say, the guy can really flash some leather all over the field.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 13, 2009 8:11 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
We don't need to sign a platoon 1B
If we sign a DH who can also play some 1B thats fine but we don’t need to sign a platoon 1B. Thats why if you sign Lowell you won’t go after Garko
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 Dec 13, 2009 12:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
So who do you play everyday versus lefties?
Davis and his .546 OPS or Murphy and his .627 OPS?
I don’t understand the notion that we can’t have two players with similar skill sets on the team at once. We have two different holes on this team: (1) a RH bat to play DH against LHP and (2) a RH bat to play 1B against LHP. Mike Lowell does not fill both these holes. He can only fill one of these holes at a time, meaning that every game against a LHP, the Rangers will have to expose either Murphy or Davis to a lefty. In a perfect world, Davis and Murphy should not be playing against lefties at all.
That is why Amezaga is such an intriguing addition; he is a true super utility player who essentially acts as a utility infielder and fifth outfielder. That way, the Rangers could keep an extra bat on the bench like Garko so neither Davis nor Murphy have to play against lefties regularly.
by Stephen Rushin on Dec 13, 2009 2:08 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you are overreacting a bit to Davis
Davis hasn’t been that bad against lefties in his career. Both minor league and his 2008. He sucked against them no doubt in 09 but I don’t think enough so that you need to platoon him.
I would love Garko but I don’t think financially we can get both Garko and Lowell. If we could only have one I think Lowell is the better choice mainly due to his veteran influence which I think we will be severely lacking next year if we don’t have him
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 Dec 13, 2009 2:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sure
If financial issues would preclude us from Garko, then it is a moot point. At that point, I don’t care whether we have Lowell, Gomes, or Garko. It seems that Texas wants a veteran influence and that would be Lowell.
But I don’t think it is overreacting to protect Davis from lefties. At the very least, you want to put Davis in the best possible situation to succeed. And we can’t just avert our eyes and ignore the unbelievable splits Davis posted last year. He was actually decent against RHP (.260/.307/.502 for a .809 OPS) but he was downright embarrassing against lefties (.189/.235/.311 for a .546 OPS). Those are really dramatic splits. For Davis’s own good, I don’t want to see him getting 200+ AB next season against lefties. I’d much prefer seeing him play mainly again RHP; he’d likely post an .800-.850 OPS in that role and give you 25-30 home runs.
And in the end, we are expecting to contend next season. And if Smoak is not ready yet, we need an insurance policy for Davis at first. Garko would be a solid insurance policy who could really help improve the production we get from 1B. And I don’t think Garko would cost very much.
by Stephen Rushin on Dec 13, 2009 2:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
lefties
I have no problem if you want to sit him against the tough lefties. But how many ABs are we talking about? Lets say 30% of the games you start are against LHP which would be around 45 games. average 4 ABs a game and thats 180. I don’t think 150 ABs against LHP is that big a deal. Especially if you look at last year as a bad year all around and look at what hes done prior to that. Hes been pretty good against them all other times so I don’t think we need to devote a roster spot to a platoon partner for him.
If he struggles I think you send him down all together not platoon him
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 Dec 13, 2009 2:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Significance of 180 AB
Last season, Davis got 122 AB versus lefties. That .546 OPS against lefties resulted in his OPS going down from .809 to .726. So to answer your question, those 150-180 AB against lefties can significantly affect the overall production you get from 1B.
And I think a lot of this is contingent on Smoak. If the team feels Smoak is ready to fill in for Davis as soon as he struggles, then fine. But it seems Smoak needs a little more time in AAA. In that situation, it would be nice to have a guy like Garko who could get those 150-180 AB against lefties, or (worse case scenario) play first base everyday if Davis struggles but Smoak is not ready.
And I think there is little doubt that adding Garko, even after the addition of Lowell, would make this team better in a year that they hope to contend.
by Stephen Rushin on Dec 13, 2009 2:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And my position is last year was more an anomoly than the norm
If he struggles like last year I think they send him down rather than platoon him.
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 Dec 13, 2009 3:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why only 140 games?
Thats how many games Elvis started at short last year. I don’t see the point in continuing to baby the guy. He got better in the 2nd half of the season and his August and September were two of his better months. I don’t think there should be any reason, barring injury, for him to not play at least 150 games and more likely closer to 155-158.
I think if Elvis does get some kind of minor injury like a tweaked ankle then you would see Young slide over for a week or so. If Elvis goes down for any length of time we are screwed regardless of who is the utility guy. Theres just not enough roster spots to keep a dedicated backup for every position. Based on their histories I would be much more concerned with a backup 2B than a backup SS
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
How many 21 year olds start 155-158 games in a season?
And how is it babying Andrus for him to get a day off every week or two?
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
What about what he did last year
Shows he can’t handle an extra 10-12 games this year?
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Let me ask you this
Tell me how many shortstops in 2009 you think, off the top of your head, started 150 games?
Not looking for names, just a number.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Off the top of my head
6
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Sound familiar?
lol
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
"When you have a weapon on your shoulder like he has, you can be cool." RW on Perez
And the little bastard threw it for a swinging strike three in a 3-2 count. He’s blessed. And ballsy.
by Rodney on Dec 13, 2009 1:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It is exactly half of that
3 — Jimmy Rollins, Miguel Tejada, and Orlando Cabrera
With 140 starts, Elvis had the 11th highest number of starts at shortstop last year.
I don’t see that expecting him to start 145-150 games is babying him.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Any thought on the UTIL IF
Situation?
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 9:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
similar to Firebat question above
With the current construction of the roster, Gentry or Boggs has to make the team as a backup for Borbon, right?
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 9:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
One would think
Someone like that, anyway.
Of course, given that the team presumably also needs a backup shortstop, that means you aren’t going to keep German or Inglett.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Now im looking it up
Cabera
Jeter
Peralta
Tejada
Rollins
Theriot (shocking)
Tulowitzki
Hanley
Furcal
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Are those starts or
starts @ SS. Guys like Jeter sometimes will DH
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 9:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He's just looking at starts.
No surprise there.
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nevermind only looked at games played
Furcal started 141
Theriot 147
Hanley 145
Tulo 148
Jeter 146
Peralta alot less
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Where are you getting your numbers?
Fangraphs has Ramirez at 144 GS at SS in 2009.
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
B-R
I may be off by one or two. I just went to each players gamelogs and looked how many times theycame in as either PH or were at another position and subtracted from total.
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There were only 3, as Adam stated
There were another 3 at 147, so 6 at 147 or better started at SS
by tyd3311 on Dec 12, 2009 9:37 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ok
So lets let Elvis play 147 next year
Thats alot better than 140 IMO
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't that 10 games less than the earlier idea?
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
155+ is my ideal scenario yes
But im fine with 147-150. I don;t think that warrants requiring a great defensive player as the backup
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
15 games is important.
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You can hide someone for 15 games
20-25 is alot harder to do
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think it's funny
…that you guys are arguing so much about this.
If the Rangers are in close contention and he’s not struggling they will ride the guy hard. If they’re running away with it or have gotten run over I’m sure he’ll get days off. If something happens and he sucks your backup SS isn’t going to fix the problem.
by Black Francis on Dec 12, 2009 9:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And if he's hurt?
Or gets sick? Or just goes through a slump and needs some time to get his head straight?
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
If it's catastrophic
…the Rangers will be screwed no matter who’s the backup because they’re aren’t many people in the world who can play SS like he does.
If it’s something minor, someone else will have to play or they can shuffle things around and Young can play there. This team has no money and cannot afford to have a decent player on the bench. I’d rather them spend what resources they do have to address other needs.
by Black Francis on Dec 12, 2009 9:58 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
There are shades between
catastrophic and minor.
And we’re not talking about spending a lot of money, are we?
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 10:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure they have any.
If they did I’d say go for it. I understand the need for depth and resting the regular players. Makes for a better team, obviously. Not saying they don’t need get him a high quality backup; I question their ability to, and their desire to when there are other things to deal with.
by Black Francis on Dec 12, 2009 10:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nick Green? Eric Bruntlett?
We’re not talking about guys that are going to send Bud Selig into apoplexy.
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 10:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It isn't the money
It is the roster spot.
Do you want your 25th man to be German or, say, Arias (assuming his shoulder heals to the point he can play SS next year) or some other random $500k-$1 million utility guy?
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 10:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know
I guess German. And if Andrus needs to be spelled for whatever reason they can call up Arias. If he is still hurt maybe they can exchange organizational fodder with some team so they can have someone close at hand. If Andrus goes down, I guess they’ll make another trade for a decent player. Hopefully the ownership situation would be settled and they could make a move.
But if Andrus just needs a day of rest I don’t see why Young can’t move over.
by Black Francis on Dec 12, 2009 10:17 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Arias is out of options
If he doesn’t make the team out of spring he gets DFAd. So he can’t be the shuttle guy. German is out of options as well.
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 Dec 12, 2009 10:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
arias
is already out of options?
Well I don’t really see the point in him making the team out of spring training. German can hit a little, though, so I think he’d come in handy in general.
If you have to sit Andrus, play German at 3B and drag that malcontent Mike Young over to play SS. It’s not ideal, no, but if it’s just for a day every now and then it should be alright.
Then if something happens to Andrus maybe they can drop German and add a SS via trade.
I don’t know. I’m not a GM. Seems like it would work to me, though.
by Black Francis on Dec 12, 2009 10:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
AFLAC?
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
"When you have a weapon on your shoulder like he has, you can be cool." RW on Perez
And the little bastard threw it for a swinging strike three in a 3-2 count. He’s blessed. And ballsy.
by Rodney on Dec 13, 2009 1:17 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"They give you cash,
which is just as good as money."
by Snark on Dec 13, 2009 3:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Also, I think it's funny
that you think the discussion is inconsequential, so you decided to join it…
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They'll ride the guy hard
Sort of like they rode Ian Kinsler hard in 2009, to the point he was worn down late in the year.
Again, I think it makes sense to have someone who can spell your MIFs so that, come August, they aren’t completely worn out.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He was wore down?
He was fine in August after coming back from his injury. And in September the Rangers had 5 days off during the month which is plenty. I don’t think his performance had anything to do with being tired
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
It absolutely makes sense
…but it costs $$$.
by Black Francis on Dec 12, 2009 9:59 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Now looking at this list
I don’t see why imagining Elvis playing the same amount as Tulowitzki or Hanley is that bad an idea.
Not many teams have the kind of SS Elvis is. Franchise type SS who is tremendous defensively. Jeter in his first full season at age 22 started 156 games at SS. He got pulled late in a half dozen or so which I wouldn’t be opposed to doing with Elvis next year but I just don’t see why with such a droff at the position people want to sit him so many times.
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:35 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well
You said 155-158 games, which only Cabrera and Tejada did last year.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:40 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Thats my personal opinion
But if 147-150 is more realistic thats fine too. Its alot better than 140.
140 games for Elvis and I think we do need a better backup at SS. 147+ and I think we can roll with German or whoever and not be hurt
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Also
You’re approaching this backwards, I think. You seem to be saying, we don’t have a good shortstop option, so Andrus should just play virtually every day.
I (and some others, I think) are saying that it isn’t realistic to expect him to start more than 145-150 games, and so you need to find someone besides German or Inglett as your UIF, since you are going to want to have someone who can start 15 games there during the season
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I just don't think German or somebody for 12-15 games spread out throughout the season
isn’t going to hurt you. You can make it so they face other teams #5 starters and such to minimize their impact on the game. Sure they may not have the range Elvis does which may lead to a extra hit or two in those games but as long as they can make the routine plays I don’t think its gonna kill you to have German or someone like him out there that sparingly
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
and while it might seem inconsequential, Vizquel was a 1.5 win player last season. If German or Inglett is forced to play 15-20 games at SS, I think it’s pretty likely they would be sub replacement level, so you’d be looking at a net loss of about 3 wins from last year at the utility position.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 9:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
was that 1.5 strictly as SS?
He did play alot at 3B and 2B
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
And you also probably...
…want to limit Kinsler to around 145 games, even if he’s healthy all year, given his tendency to wear down.
So you are talking about someone needing to start 35 or so games in the MIF spots, probably another 10 or so at 3B when Young sits or DHs, and then the occasional late game replacement or whatever.
So you’re looking at someone who is probably going to play 50-60 games and get close to 200 PAs in the infield.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Young
what makes you think he is going to DH or sit this year?
He DH’d once last year and 23 times in his entire career. Hes not that old and given his stature in this organization he is the type of guy who only sits if he wants IMO.
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:53 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
bigsteve says
make out the opening day lineup and make 162 copies of it. No need to baby these guys!!
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 9:56 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No
But I don’t see why people just say Young is going to DH when he hasn’t done that in his entire career. The guy played with broken fingers in 2008 and barely didn’t DH but 3 times. And until last year he had played at least 155 games in 7 straight years so the idea you simply sit him a dozen times or so seems weird to me
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 Dec 12, 2009 10:01 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
bigsteve doesn't coddle
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 9:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
In these instances
I would prefer you refer to him as Esteban Grande!
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 9:57 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
nolan ryan doesn't coddle
see the sig
"He will not coddle them. Nolan Ryan doesn’t coddle." - Jeff Passan
by Dirk Diggler on Dec 13, 2009 1:36 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Because I'm bored
Ruben Sierra 158 1987
Cal Ripken 160 1982
Eddie Murray 160 1977
Ryan Zimmerman 157 2006
Buddy Bell 156 1973
Joe Morgan 157 1965
Delmon Young 162 2007
Rocco Baldelli 156 2003
Rickey Henderson 158 1980
Chris Speier 157 1971
Roberto Alomar 158 1989
Aurelio Rodriguez 159 1969
Dick Hoblitzel 155 1910
Greg Gross 156 1974
Donie Bush 157 1909
by tyd3311 on Dec 12, 2009 9:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you have someone like that at AAA
And if Elvis is going to miss 5-7 days, you call that guy up and option a long reliever or someone.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 9:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No not really
If we could find one that would be nice but its not a necessity
Look who the Yankees have had as a UT guy the last few years. Jeter plays 150+ games a year in the field so I think a game or two a month with someone else out there isn’t going to kill you.
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 Dec 12, 2009 7:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He looks like that ugly dog
I'm just goofin' new boot goofin'
by iorange555 on Dec 12, 2009 7:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I love that remix ad they play late night.
It is funny poop.
Give me team chemistry and emotion over stats any day. Do you think 34,000 Ranger fans were screaming their asses off over Pudge and his .275 OBP?
by AceJC on Dec 12, 2009 9:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I want to see Elvis
play at least 155 games this year.
In vino, veritas
by Winojohn on Dec 12, 2009 7:15 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
He better
Because we’re looking at Joaquin Arias playing there if he doesn’t.
I failed my LSB ethics test.
"WHAT A SHITLOAD OF FUCK" - LL's "Poochie" on Rich Harden signing with Texas over Seattle
by lonestarJon on Dec 12, 2009 7:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
why not?
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 Dec 12, 2009 8:11 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Well
I think given his age, his build, and the climate in Texas, expecting him to play 155 games might be excessive.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 8:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
He got better as last season went on so I don't know how much you have to worry about him wearing down
And I think you don’t need to baby the guy anymore. I think had he only played 120 or so games last year (which I believe the plan was until Young got injured) then I would agree increasing him to 140 would be ok. But I don’t see why you shouldn’t increase his games this year over last year
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not if some of those games
…are in October.
by Black Francis on Dec 12, 2009 9:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
As an expectation, I don't think its excessive
Let the season play out and see what happens. Maybe he gets hurt or needs a rest, but I think its fair to expect a healthy Andrus to play in that many games.
By 2028, Mark Teixeira will be in the HOF.
"I am one of the biggest Texas Ranger fans out there but I'm also one of the smartest. Deal with it."
-The Outlaw
by Gdawg on Dec 13, 2009 12:21 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Why? Because he's special...
He might be the next Omar Visquel or Lou Whitaker, except he may hit more. I want to see him every day so we can find out.
In vino, veritas
by Winojohn on Dec 12, 2009 8:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Vizquel didn't play more than 143 games a season until he was 26 years old
Lou Whitaker didn’t play more than 145 until he was 25. I don’t think you can plan on playing a 21 year old player more than 140 or so games. That leaves 20+ games that you need another SS.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 8:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
OK. SO just because I'm selfish then...
I love what he does when he’s at SS.
In vino, veritas
by Winojohn on Dec 12, 2009 8:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Looks like the Pads
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 7:23 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I want to know
where the Rangers started in their contract offers to all the other arb-eligble people… I bet they would all be considered “low ball” offers.
TCU Frogs- #3
"THAT WAS MY SPECIAL MONDAY MORNING TAPE, SPECIAL, FOR YOU!
It's fucking Monday afternoon, you should get out of bed earlier."
by PM Productions on Dec 12, 2009 8:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I don't think they have to actually offer a figure yet
I could be wrong but I think you just have to announce your intention to in order to be considered tendering. Actual arbitration figures don’t have to be submitted until later I believe
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 Dec 12, 2009 9:14 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They had to tender the player a contract
I am wondering how much was on this contract… They didnt have to offer their arbitration figures yet.
TCU Frogs- #3
"THAT WAS MY SPECIAL MONDAY MORNING TAPE, SPECIAL, FOR YOU!
It's fucking Monday afternoon, you should get out of bed earlier."
by PM Productions on Dec 12, 2009 11:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure if this has been posted yet
The Red Sox trade of Mike Lowell to Texas has not been officially completed as Rangers officials are looking over the third baseman’s thumb, writes Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe.
via mlbtr
by tyd3311 on Dec 12, 2009 8:41 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
So it still hasn't officially been given the thumbs up?
I failed my LSB ethics test.
"WHAT A SHITLOAD OF FUCK" - LL's "Poochie" on Rich Harden signing with Texas over Seattle
by lonestarJon on Dec 12, 2009 8:42 PM CST up reply actions 2 recs
awful, awful
pun.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 8:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Lowell has always said that he wanted to play out his contract in Boston
so needless to say, he was biting his thumb at this potential trade
by Telegraph on Dec 12, 2009 9:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
A real thumb biter that one?
(sorry)
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 9:12 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Nothing to thumb your nose at...
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Wait
Lowell has to hitch hike to Arlington due to budget limitations?
"He uses statistics as a drunken man uses lamp-posts... for support rather than illumination." - Andrew Lang (1844-1912) also -
"Telephone, n. An invention of the devil which abrogates some of the advantages of making a disagreeable person keep his distance."
~Ambrose Bierce
by Ed Coffin on Dec 13, 2009 12:23 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Is there any other kind?
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:21 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I guess I'm just an analog sort of guy, living in a digital world.
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Should have been
“an analogy kind of guy”, fail sir, fail.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 9:27 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
No, an analog guy.
In the back of the throat.
Your 2009 Texas Rangers: "Can't take a fucking to save their lives" (lisa w, 2009).
by Snark on Dec 12, 2009 9:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
JD
angling for a throw in?
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 8:42 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps a lesser prospect than MaxRam...
or for the BoSox to eat even more of Lowell’s salary?
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
by slc ranger on Dec 12, 2009 8:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The Red Sox
is pretty flush with organizational level SS/3B/2B guys. Maybe he’s trying to get another UT IF in here as well? Or maybe a low level latin guy?
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 8:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Holding out for Tuglett
So we can have AJM’s gritty UTL guy throwdown in the spring.
I failed my LSB ethics test.
"WHAT A SHITLOAD OF FUCK" - LL's "Poochie" on Rich Harden signing with Texas over Seattle
by lonestarJon on Dec 12, 2009 8:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
thumb, hip, back
He will keep the team doctor busy next year.
|Space for Rent|
by RangerMad on Dec 12, 2009 8:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
OT...
Anybody watching this ESPN 30 for 30 on The U?
These dudes were absolute CLOWNS…
by N41D on Dec 12, 2009 9:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
30 for 30
Yeah, just finished watching it. I’d forgotten all the guys that were a part of that program.
Of all the crazy things they did (at least the ones they talked about in the film) the one that cracked me up the most was the story about calling Brian Bosworth at 5 AM to trash-talk.
I also had no idea Luther Campbell was as involved in the goings-on at Miami as he was.
"Just remember what ol' Jack Burton does when the earth quakes, and the poison arrows fall from the sky, and the pillars of Heaven shake. Yeah, Jack Burton just looks that big ol' storm right square in the eye and he says, "Give me your best shot, pal. I can take it."
by RCCook on Dec 12, 2009 11:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
On the plus side...
…in the 2013-14 season, his expiring contract will be a hot trade commodity.
by Adam J. Morris on Dec 12, 2009 10:05 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
You see Harris injure his pinky finger? Good times.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team.-Lonestarjon
Drew effing Gooden??? F U Donnie.
by AirJordan on Dec 12, 2009 10:30 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Let's see what happens when he's healthy.
I mean, he’s already the best defender on the team.
by brettgardner on Dec 13, 2009 10:32 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Plus
If this is meant as a management shot, you do realize that his is the only guaranteed contract that year?
by brettgardner on Dec 13, 2009 10:34 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Dirk = Magic
"Stats are like a woman in a fine little bikini. You can see a lot, but you can't see everything." -Dirk A. Tron
by coolaid on Dec 12, 2009 10:01 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
*not Magic Johnson
"Stats are like a woman in a fine little bikini. You can see a lot, but you can't see everything." -Dirk A. Tron
by coolaid on Dec 12, 2009 10:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That was a really bad shot
But one you sort of expect Dirk to make
by tyd3311 on Dec 12, 2009 10:02 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Bad shot for everyone else
not Dirk. He likes to take those kinds of shots where he creates space for himself and fades away.
"Stats are like a woman in a fine little bikini. You can see a lot, but you can't see everything." -Dirk A. Tron
by coolaid on Dec 12, 2009 10:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Some awful
shots in OT but good rebounding.
"Stats are like a woman in a fine little bikini. You can see a lot, but you can't see everything." -Dirk A. Tron
by coolaid on Dec 12, 2009 10:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Terry if 3-17 with 1 rebound
Damp is 7-7 with 17 rebounds
by BuckyB on Dec 12, 2009 10:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Terry
trying to lose this game by himself.
"Stats are like a woman in a fine little bikini. You can see a lot, but you can't see everything." -Dirk A. Tron
by coolaid on Dec 12, 2009 10:16 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Was that a made FG by Terry?
Holy shit.
"Stats are like a woman in a fine little bikini. You can see a lot, but you can't see everything." -Dirk A. Tron
by coolaid on Dec 12, 2009 10:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah that was exciting and uninspected
i cursed loudly when he looked like he was going to shoot
by BuckyB on Dec 12, 2009 10:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Yet again.
"Stats are like a woman in a fine little bikini. You can see a lot, but you can't see everything." -Dirk A. Tron
by coolaid on Dec 12, 2009 10:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
and a Tech in overtime
great day, jet
by BuckyB on Dec 12, 2009 10:10 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Damn, TB signed Navarro
I’m not looking forward to seeing how our catching shakes out this year.
Ranger fans say "NO! NO!" to Go Go.
Keep Reinsdorf's chub from ruining my club.
by tricer on Dec 12, 2009 10:22 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Big German says
Screw You !!!
JD’s like, "you want some fucking pitching? Here’s all the pitching you can stand. Now choke on it, bitches!"- RCCook
by laxtonto on Dec 12, 2009 10:23 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
amazing!
After Fuentes blows a save and an Angels loss to the Indians:
"Angels still in first place" - UCI Halo
"Hey you know who would have gotten those 3 outs in the 9th?
Darren O’Day." - FirebatM3
LOL
by hinduplaya on Dec 12, 2009 10:27 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I dont think the Cowboys will get blown out
I think they can win or lose close
I also think they can blowout at the Chargers
by tyd3311 on Dec 12, 2009 10:51 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They absolutely MUST
get to Rivers, or he’s going to shred the whole thing apart.
I think the offense can do its job. Please Tony…
Remember to retire Fin's number, Mark.
by jonthefon on Dec 13, 2009 12:47 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
glorious victory
even if by a narrow margin.
the preceding post was a great success.
by DSheppard on Dec 12, 2009 11:03 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Was that balloon pop today?
I think Luke French has a lot of potential. TORP potential.-Dstar
by sprite on Dec 12, 2009 10:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
John Buck
and Raul Chavez (and Matt Capps) were all cut.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 11:10 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Capps would be nice
wonder what he’ll cost
by BuckyB on Dec 12, 2009 11:15 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ANthony Reyes
and the Great Adam Miller were both non-tendered as well.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 12, 2009 11:31 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Adam Miller
That’s some sad stuff right there.
by LiamP on Dec 12, 2009 11:50 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
She's hot
Can never understand why she never seems to land anything more than recurring roles.
I failed my LSB ethics test.
"WHAT A SHITLOAD OF FUCK" - LL's "Poochie" on Rich Harden signing with Texas over Seattle
by lonestarJon on Dec 13, 2009 12:17 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
She's so hot
She was an outstanding addition to the cast of Entourage this season. I hope to see a lot more of her next season.
"Dying ain't hard. It’s living in the wake of a thorough public humiliation that’s hard.--JDT217
Internet greatness http://www.lonestarball.com/2009/11/10/1125340/will-carroll-calls-out-josey-wales
by WestTxAg06 on Dec 13, 2009 9:23 AM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
He was out for the year
but still. Damn
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 13, 2009 12:01 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
The one guy
I think might make more sense than Lowell. Consistently good vs. LHP and good value if we have someone to back up 3B.
I’m a white boy who doesn’t think a black man is good enough to manage my baseball team. - LSJ
"I really think that" - LSJ, on being asked by AirJordan
by FirebatM3 on Dec 13, 2009 12:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
I’ve been saying we should get Garko since last June. If we’re talking about someone to hit LHP, give me Garko over Lowell.
"He will not coddle them. Nolan Ryan doesn’t coddle." - Jeff Passan
by Dirk Diggler on Dec 13, 2009 1:38 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I think signing German spells the end for Arias
you have Esteban German and Joe Inglett that are both better than Arias, and another player in prospect Marcus Lemon who is working on being a super-sub that I would place above Arias as well
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings.
by NothinG on Dec 13, 2009 1:26 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
Big League Stew - MLB - Yahoo! Sports
- Small Twitter account creates big drama in White Sox camp
- John Danks sticks with the script — no matter the consequence
- Spring Snapshot: Will fresh faces produce a White Sox winner?
- Vin Scully OK after tumble but scares bejeezus out of everybody
- Musical interlude: Gordon Beckham and Jake Peavy 'Take It Easy'
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.
