Monday morning Rangers stuff
by Adam J. Morris on Jul 12, 2010 10:55 AM CDT
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What a frustrating homestand. Anything less than 7-3 would have been a disappointment, and the Rangers went 3-7.
On the positive side, the Angels have also been in meltdown mode, so Texas is still up 4.5 games. But you can't help but feel that the Rangers should be up 7.5 or 8.5 games, and that we should be going into the break with the Angels basically dead and buried, rather than still hanging around.
Jeff Wilson's game story says the events from the past week are among the strangest in the history of a team that is notable primarily for its strange history.
Chris Cox, in his game story, says the All Star Break couldn't have come at a better time for the Rangers.
Evan Grant says that, if there was a bright side to the weekend, it was in the performance of Chris Davis, who had good at bats and hasn't struck out yet since returning to the big leagues.
Gerry Fraley has some post-game notes up, as does Tim MacMahon.
Wilson has a story about Elvis Andrus, and how he isn't going to let being an All Star change his team-first approach.
The S-T's notes say that a report that Mark Cuban was joining a group bidding for the Rangers has been denied.
The Rangers' website notes talk about the post-break rotation, which is set up to allow Cliff Lee to start the opener in the series against Anaheim, and the decision to rest Josh Hamilton and Elvis Andrus yesterday.
T.R. Sullivan has a story up about Tanner Scheppers and his appearing in the Futures Game.
Sullivan also has a story about Josh Hamilton being a legit Triple Crown contender.
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nobody wrote an article on Andrus/Hamilton
getting a day off on the day before a 3-day break?
Greatest Inventions Ever? 1. TiVO, 2. Boobs, 3. Baseball
They are playing in the all-star game
They aren’t getting a 3 day break
by Heebs on Jul 12, 2010 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
They each play like 3/4 innings
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions
Of course
But it isn’t like they are getting a 3 day break like the rest of the club.
They will be very busy with all-star game festivities and will actually have to play in a (semi-competitive) game.
I don’t think resting them was the right decision but it wasn’t like resting Michael Young who gets the entire 3 days off.
by Heebs on Jul 12, 2010 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
they are getting
monday and wednesday off?
by I am Neftali Feliz on Jul 12, 2010 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions
I believe they still participate in the other all-star activities
Hardly a day off, though they won’t be playing.
"I think I'm going to name my new car Scooter, because it dominates on the road." - mikeyoungfuturehof, 9.10.09
"I’ve been a Rangers fan all my life and I can tell you there’s been plenty of fucking crying in baseball…" - WhipSmart, 6.3.08
Not to mention
the fact that they have to fly (probably commercial) to Anaheim late Sunday night (with Guerrero and Feliz and Lee and Kinsler and Ty Wiggington (from baltimore) and perhaps others. (no idea if any coaches were tapped or what), participate in press conferences on Monday, play in the game on Tuesday, and stay until its done, plus post games, and then on Wendesday fly all the way to Boston in time for the afternoon workouts (though they may be excused from those).
Oh my god! What can it be? We're all doomed! Who's flying this thing?
-Wash
Not really real 'work' days over the ASB...
but both Andrus and Hamilton have to fly to LA and back, just before getting ready for the road trip.
Given Andrus’ recent struggles at the plate, I think he could have used a break.
by RyanBlueThunder on Jul 12, 2010 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions
I was fine with Elvis getting the day
But Josh should have DH’ed with Vlad needing a day off.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions
yes, I thought about that too...
…perhaps because it was a day game, Warsh thought it best to let Josh sit?
by RyanBlueThunder on Jul 12, 2010 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions
Hamilton asked for that day off
Last week at the end of the last road trip Wash gave Hamilton the option for which day he wanted off before the ASB and he apparently chose yesterday.
I think people forget why Wash gives these guys breaks
it is as much to give Andrus and Hamilton a day off as it is to get his backups into the game. Wash seems to be of the opinion that guys like Blanco and Arias and Murphy should start 5 or so games a month to stay fresh. And who knows how accurate that is, but that seems to be what he is thinking. So when he benches Andrus, it isn’t to keep the 21 year old from wearing out as much as it is to get other guys into the game before the break, otherwise they won’t play for a really long stretch.
I’m not condoning that, but there definitely seems to be two sides to the decision to play backups on a day like yesterday
Go Rice Owls!
Conjecture much?
On the pregame yesterday, Wash said he thought Elvis was mentally tired. I would have to concur based on his two ugly base running gaffs Thursday. OTOH, backups do get rusty if not used enough, I seem to recall Oates saying that plenty of times during his tenure.
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
Oh, I'm not saying that it is only that
of course a part of it is to give the regulars a break. But there is an added value, particular to managers like Washington, to giving backups periodic starts as well.
Go Rice Owls!
Black managers?
Managers of a first place team?
Managers who are former players?
Managers in Texas?
I guess I am missing your point…
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
just that he is a so-called "players' manager"
they make sure everyone gets their innings.
I’m not criticizing – just saying that he is what he is, and so his playing Arias doesn’t surprise me
Go Rice Owls!
Heh, just teasing
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
and of course it is conjecture
it is all conjecture around here. When people throw fits that Hamilton and Andrus don’t need the day off, whining that that is the cause of the team getting swept, that is pure conjecture. I’m just introducing an alternative/additional reason for Washington’s actions
Go Rice Owls!
Heh, so very true.
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
No, because it's really not that big a deal.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
I have never been so glad a homestand was over
than I was when I got home from the game yesterday afternoon.
I need a break, and so does the team.
"I think I'm going to name my new car Scooter, because it dominates on the road." - mikeyoungfuturehof, 9.10.09
"I’ve been a Rangers fan all my life and I can tell you there’s been plenty of fucking crying in baseball…" - WhipSmart, 6.3.08
In case you didn't see...
We are debuting Lone Star Ball Radio: Live tonight at 10:00pm CT. Come and listen, and please call in! We would love to have some contribution from the group, we are doing it for you guys…
Check out the FanPost on the right to listen, more information is also there… or you can just click here...
"Hey Sanka, you can pee now... uuummm, too late...."
This used to be links to my websites... But the man got in the way, shut them all down... Damn the man...
Rangers Game Streams ~ Password: LSB123
by FormerLSBUser on Jul 12, 2010 11:00 AM CDT reply actions
Sweet! I will definitely be listening in!
She say she are the manager.
by rockin_rangers on Jul 12, 2010 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions
Only this franchise..
could have 50 wins at the break, have a ROY candidate, MVP candidate, trade for Cliff Lee (so a Cy Young candidate), while having the largest division lead in baseball. All that and manage to enter the all-star break on such a low. Amazing!
Texas Rangers: throwing fans over the rails since 1972.
She say she are the manager.
by rockin_rangers on Jul 12, 2010 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
trust me, i wouldn't have run with it had the guy been seriously hurt.
She say she are the manager.
by rockin_rangers on Jul 12, 2010 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions
Cheering for the Rangers = Insanity
Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.
Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. Not all holes, or games, are created equal. George Will
by GhostofSteveFoucault on Jul 12, 2010 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm completely serious when I say
All I need to soothe my pain is 1 win in the playoffs. It would suck losing in the first round but I’d live with it. Getting swept or not making the playoffs will absolutely crush me.
Aim higher
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
The bar was raised as high as it can go
last Friday.
This is the year…we’re all in…it’s World Series title or the year is a failure.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't think you can say a title or failure
too much can happen in one series. The favorites do lose them.
I think at least an ALCS or WS berth should be the bar. If you feel the need to set one.
I think the franchise's first playoff series win
Is a sufficiently high bar.
Don’t get me wrong, the goal is to win a World Series. But I’m not crazy about their chances against the Yankees, let alone the natural reduction in odds that comes for every team when you have to win 3 series in a row.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions
If the Rockies can do it, why not us?
That’s really the best I can say at this point – “why not us?”
by FuturePants on Jul 12, 2010 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions
I think that was before
Obviously, anything can happen. Even the Yankees have less than a 30% chance of winning the World Series this year.
But as far as predicting what is most likely to happen, I think the Rangers are at least on par with any of the other contenders in the AL right now. Each team has different strengths and weaknesses, but there’s 4 or 5 really good teams in the AL.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions
He is setting it that high so it will be a win-win for him.
If we win, he can talk for months on end about how Nolan turned this team into a WS champ with his will power.
If we don’t, he can go on and on about how JD sucks and should be fired because the team didn’t win the WS.
Cliff Lee was brought here
to chainsaw the balls off the Yankees, just like he did last year.
We were going to make the playoffs before the deal was done on Friday. This deal was made to win the World Series.
Ownership is up in the air to put it mildly. Lee is gone after the season. What happens to Vlad and if he stays will be continue to be healthy & effective? Will MYoung hit this well past 34? How will Josh, Cruz and Kinsler age into their 30’s?
Whether we are ready for it or not, this is the year.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions
"We were going to make the playoffs before the deal was done on Friday. This deal was made to win the World Series."
Really? You’re going to say that in July? Let’s tap the brake a little….Lee was brought here to make sure they make the playoffs. If/when they get there, THEN he can lead the staff to a playoff series win…after that, who knows.
Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. Not all holes, or games, are created equal. George Will
by GhostofSteveFoucault on Jul 12, 2010 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions
In fact...a positive thing that came from this series was a reality check...
Personally, I know that I’m more realistic about the playoff drive…there are still 14 games against the Angels and 2 1/2 months left in the season. Many of us (including me) were rubber-stamping the Rangers into the post-season after the winning streak and the Lee acquisition. If this series did anything, it showed that the Rangers are far from a lock…the chances are still good to make the playoffs but the schedule after the ASB is going to be tough…the Rangers will EARN a playoff berth if they make it.
Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. Not all holes, or games, are created equal. George Will
by GhostofSteveFoucault on Jul 12, 2010 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions
I'd say our chances to make the playoffs
last Thursday were sitting around 80%.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions
and after Sunday?
Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. Not all holes, or games, are created equal. George Will
by GhostofSteveFoucault on Jul 12, 2010 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions
90%+
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions
He's right, the bar was raised...
and by that he means the bar for him to give any credit to Daniels (it’s his baby all the way!)
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
how do we know Lee is gone for certain after this year?
Assuming the ownership gets squared away, why can’t Cliff Lee receive a pretty kick ass deal? I mean, he is the best pitcher in the AL, right?
"Does this effectively hide my thunder?"
Because the Yankees are interested
It’s not just that they offer the best contract, it’s that it’s significantly better than your second best offer.
It has been reported that CC Sabathia wanted to be in Southern California, but the money difference was just too great.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions
He's the perfect replacement for Pettitte.
He’ll get CC bucks to go to NYC.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions
And I'll gladly take NY's draft picks
in return. Next year’s draft class is a good one. I think there is no chance that NY lets TX outbid them for Lee on the free agent market after a GM with one armed tied behind his wallet outmaneuvered them for him on the trade market.
If Lee doesn’t sign an extension before the playoffs are over, he’s gone.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
I'm pretty sure both hands were tied behind the wallet
heh
"Ooooh....I want some fucking pancakes!" son of willamos2
We've seen one playoff win....
we need a playoff series win….that will soothe my pain
Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. Not all holes, or games, are created equal. George Will
by GhostofSteveFoucault on Jul 12, 2010 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions
Haven't watched a game the last week....
but how the hell did we get swept by the O’s? And what happened to Cliff Lee?
"No nuts, no glory"
I dont
want to re-hash last week….
by I am Neftali Feliz on Jul 12, 2010 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions
Chris Davis was very encouraging
If we get a .250 avg out of the 1b position the rest of the way, Ima be happy.
"Drinks are on me if Lewis posts >168IP and an era lower than 3.86." by RangerMad on Jan 20, 2010 12:36 PM PST
"HE GETS THE GODDAM CLEAT" by philkid3
I'm just hoping
Davis can at least put up the same production that we’ve gotten from Smoak up until now. If 1B isn’t going to give us good production at the plate, at least we can get some production that won’t sink this offense.
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
so no Adam Dunn?
guess that cost would be prohibitive
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jul 12, 2010 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions
I would LOVE Adam Dunn
But I just don’t see us having the money with or without the ownership thing
92 wins or bust!
by SonnyKoufaxLSU on Jul 12, 2010 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions
My guess is we make a run at him this offseason
If Davis tanks.
I wouldn’t trade Michael Main straight up for Bengie Molina, even if my alternate catcher was a pointed stick. - KLaw
I hope Davis succeeds and Vlad stays
But I think Dunn would absolutely mash in our park
92 wins or bust!
by SonnyKoufaxLSU on Jul 12, 2010 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions
I wonder what kind of a deal he is looking for
He is having one of his best years yet and is finally hitting for a good BA. If that sticks, teams are going to care even less about his contact rates. I also wonder if Washington wants to keep him since they’re likely going to start making a push to be a winning team soon.
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
I was more impressed with his defense this weekend
than his bat…but getting on base four times yesterday was pretty surprising.
If you want some slack, bring your own rope.
by rangerfaninva on Jul 12, 2010 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions
His first 3-hit game of the season.
He also did a good job of taking pitches on the outside corner, rather than just hacking away. Seems like he’s trying to let the pitcher make a mistake rather than the other way around.
Pro baseball has always been a dream, so this is pretty freakin’ cool out here. -- Tim Steggall, undrafted Rangers minor leaguer.
But weren't they all infield hits
(sorry, couldn’t help that)
and I didn’t see the game….
Oh my god! What can it be? We're all doomed! Who's flying this thing?
-Wash
Okay, Wash explained why Elvis was benched
And I don’t necessarily agree it, but I get it. I still don’t get why you don’t start Hamilton on the day before the AS Break begins and you are trying to avoid being swept at home.
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
thought i read somewhere
Wash gave Josh the option of what game to sit out and Josh chose this game. Perhaps Josh wanted to rest as much as possible during his All Star ‘break’.
"Drinks are on me if Lewis posts >168IP and an era lower than 3.86." by RangerMad on Jan 20, 2010 12:36 PM PST
"HE GETS THE GODDAM CLEAT" by philkid3
And I suspect Josh...
…wanted to sit the day game, given his struggles in the daytime.
by Adam J. Morris on Jul 12, 2010 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeppers
Wash said that on the pregame yesterday.
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
Scheppers
Anything that rhymes with Scheppers makes me think of Scheppers.
Pro baseball has always been a dream, so this is pretty freakin’ cool out here. -- Tim Steggall, undrafted Rangers minor leaguer.
Meppers!
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
heh.
Stop it! I won’t get anything done. Don’t say leppers… just don’t.
Pro baseball has always been a dream, so this is pretty freakin’ cool out here. -- Tim Steggall, undrafted Rangers minor leaguer.
x
I watched him throw the 9 inning last night and I saw some heat at 101 mph first time I saw him. Color me impressed.
I soloed in the Mile High Club!
did you see the Futures Game yesterday?
Hey Tom - It's over now, so do you know how - to pick up the pieces and go home?
x
that is where I saw him pitch on TV
I soloed in the Mile High Club!
All I could think about yesterday at the end of the game
was how much this reminded me of the 2004 team that got swept in 4 games at camden (this was august I think) and how that probably cost that team the division.
Baltimore O's
Is it possible the O’s are better (or at least more capable) than so many shitty teams?
Some bad teams are loaded with rookies and Matt Kata type make-shift players. I think Houston and Pittsburgh just suck. But, the O’s have some solid guys with MLB experience. And their new faces have talent. I think I’m just trying to reason my way out of that horrible series. But, they looked a decent Oakland A’s type of team. A team who losses, but, is not that bad.
"Do you understand probability theory? Yes, I do. The Rangers will probably lose."
O's
Bottom 5 in batting runs above replacement (RAR), fielding RAR, starting pitching RAR and bottom 8 in relief pitching RAR.
They not good.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions
Damn it!
Okay. I can’t explain the suck. But, I agree with Rodney. Their SP’s have the ability to deliver the goods.
"Do you understand probability theory? Yes, I do. The Rangers will probably lose."
I can see the argument that they have more upside going forward...
…especially compared to a team like Houston.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions
23, 24, and 24 year old pitchers who are pretty highly regarded
Look at Holland last year, some sucky starts, some great starts. Same thing with the O’s.
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
i wonder if Wash will wait to start Cliff Lee until
the 5th game after the ASB. Y’know…he looks like needs some rest at this point.
Greatest Inventions Ever? 1. TiVO, 2. Boobs, 3. Baseball
wow
hadn’t noticed Chris Davis hasn’t struck out yet…and he has walked once, right?
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jul 12, 2010 11:09 AM CDT reply actions
I think he had a three game stretch in 2008 without a K...
the only other time he has done so. Wow.
If you want some slack, bring your own rope.
by rangerfaninva on Jul 12, 2010 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions
here's hoping that Crush will figure it out offensively for the 2nd half.
his D is a definite upgrade over that person we no longer mention
we're from Texas
CJ says "Relax"
Color me skeptical
re Chris Davis.
There is obviously a lot of love for him in the Ranger FO.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah
Not even worth acknowledging though.
by FuturePants on Jul 12, 2010 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions
skeptical is okay
I know you hate the dude, but at least give him another chance. Because like it or not he’s our first baseman.
92 wins or bust!
by SonnyKoufaxLSU on Jul 12, 2010 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions
All he has to do is be an effective player and not kill the season.
That means he needs to be disciplined and command the strike-zone AND hit with power. Yeah, there’s pressure. We don’t have room on this team, this year for somebody who puts up 114Ks in 277 plate appearances and a .256 OBP.
He can’t go 1 for 22, 8 for 46 (at the most important time of the season) or 3 for 44 with 24Ks like he did last year no matter how much the GM on the team loves him and no matter how nice he is to the fans.
Don’t feed me any Newberg bullshit about how his work with Scott Coolbaugh changed his swing plane so he now gets more topspin on the balls he hits.
If he gets 7 walks in 140 plate appearances. he’s not going to be an effective hitter – Period. If his BABIP goes to .465 because he padded his stats with a lot of little pussy infield hits, those factor in as well.
Chris Davis has been candy-assed by this organization ever since he came here and now, quite simply, It’s Time.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions
If he's an effective player, I'll shut up.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions
One way to find out...
If he rolls another 3 for 44 (with 24Ks) or an 8 for 46 in September, yeah, I’ll be very disgruntled.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions
Smoak is +2 DRS and +2.4 UZR/150 at first base this year.
An extremely limited sample size, but it’s better than anything Davis put up over there in his MLB SSS’s.
I still don’t buy the notion that Davis is a plus-plus defender.
I wouldn’t trade Michael Main straight up for Bengie Molina, even if my alternate catcher was a pointed stick. - KLaw
Me either
He’s nice but nothing special
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions
That pretty much only looks at range at 1B
and not much else. There’s a reason the Rangers, who have seen plenty of Smoak and Davis, believe that Davis is the better defensive player.
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
But not by much and it's fucking 1st base
The difference between a good and great defensive 1B is that much.
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't know exactly how much its worth in runs
because as you say, it is just 1B. But Davis is still an upgrade over Smoak defensively, even if that’s only worth half a run.
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
Defensive stats don't work for first base, when will people figure this out?
And also when will people stop arguing about it?
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
That's not really true
It’s true UZR probably doesn’t evaluate the position perfectly because it doesn’t include scoops, but it’s kind of asinine to take that to mean defensive stats “don’t work for first base”.
Some people around here have somehow made that jump, however, probably to justify ignoring the numbers.
I wouldn’t trade Michael Main straight up for Bengie Molina, even if my alternate catcher was a pointed stick. - KLaw
Like I said, I believe the stats account for range pretty well
but you have to admit that for a 1B, being able to save any throw from sailing into the stands or the dugout and then maybe still making the play is a huge part of 1B defense.
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
I don't know about "pretty huge"
But it’s a part of it, certainly. UZR seems to be an incomplete picture of 1B defense, I’m not contesting that. I’m just contesting the idea that seems to have developed (and I’m not singling out Rodney here by any means) that for some reason because UZR didn’t include scoops, defensive metrics are worthless for 1B. DRS doesn’t have that problem, I don’t believe, and UZR can still be be used to give you an idea of a 1B’s other skills.
I wouldn’t trade Michael Main straight up for Bengie Molina, even if my alternate catcher was a pointed stick. - KLaw
I'm good
I just recall several posts here, at FGs, and maybe BTB that hinted that any metric for 1st is still being worked on. Of course, all defensive stats are still buggy/in their infancy, so we are most likely picking nits at this point.
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
Eyeball test still counts for something, right?
I think there were two plays made Friday by Davis that Smoak would not have gotten to. Additionally, wouldn’t the stats have to favor CD as his foot speed is so superior to Smoak’s? Not like 1st needs any speed, but it could be important in running a ball back to first…
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
This.
Davis can’t make MY suck less at third, but he makes this team much better defensively. Davis always makes two or three plays per game that your average MLB 1B just doesn’t make. That shit doesn’t show up in the metrics.
With Smoak, I’m sure he’ll be solid, but I’ve never seen him make a play where I thought, “Wow.”
by Bats and Balls on Jul 12, 2010 12:18 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I just don't know that the eyetest isn't over-influenced by certain plays
CD is definitely a flashier defender than Smoak and will at least look like he’s making more spectacular/memorable plays with all his dramatic stretches, leaps and dives. But I don’t really think being flashier necessarily means he’s a better overall defender when the metrics are telling us he’s not that special.
Overall, I don’t really think Smoak is a significantly better defender than Davis any more than I think Davis is significantly better than Smoak – I just think that CD’s dramatics take a lot of people in.
I wouldn’t trade Michael Main straight up for Bengie Molina, even if my alternate catcher was a pointed stick. - KLaw
His dramatics generally mean hes catching the ball
The simple fact is that with CD over there we very rarely saw a throw sail past 1B and the runner advance. No matter if it was high, wide, in the dirt, short, etc Davis always seemed to not only make the catch but be able to stretch and keep his foot on the bag and steal an out.
It was rare to see Davis not make a scoop
Smoak had gotten better, though.
And it’s hard to argue that Davis’s stretch doesn’t provide that extra quarter-step that’s needed, sometimes.
I also think the umpires tend to reward efforts like that if it’s a close play.
There's two issues at play
One is that there is a pretty large set of evidence that range is the most important factor in defense, much more so than errors. We remember errors, but it’s harder (especially on tv) to get a feel for range. 1B don’t get as much of an opportunity to show off their range, which is why their UZR numbers usually don’t stray away from the norm that much.
As far as picking goes, I agree that anecdotally it seems like Davis is very good at this. But there’s been some attempts to study it and the conclusion was that there’s not a huge difference between those that are very good and very poor, something on the order of -5<x<5 runs. That’s what we mean when we say it’s not that important. Another way to look at it is that for a player who is doing poorly at this skill, like Smoak when he first got called up, it’s an easy thing to practice and subsequently improve at. I’m sure there’s some theory on positioning and tracking involved, but I’m betting it’s a lot easier to get to league average in ‘picking’ compared to range.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions
Hmmmm
I think we can all agree that in baseball, there are 4 aspects of defense which are important. One is catching balls in the air, the second is fielding balls on the ground, the third is speed and your ability to get to/be in the right place at the right time, and the fourth is throwing. Mental aspects and leadership aspects are not only not quantifiable, they are part of a larger dynamic which can be affected by many other factors.
on these four aspects, I think that Davis is better than Smoak on all of them.
1) catching balls in the air includes linedrives, popups, and thrown balls, Davis stretches better, and is overall more athletic when it comes to liners and running down popups (though that has much more to do with number 3). Smoak does throw left handed, which is to his advantage, however.
2) fielding grounders. Actually, I’m unsure whether Davis or Smoak is better, but anectdotally, I’m told that Davis’s hands are softer. I guess scoops fall into this category as well, and Davis is better on scooops. As far as fielding ground ball, pretty much any player at the major leagues can do this (even outfielders), its simply a matter of getting to them.
3) range and mobility. as I said above, Davis is much more athletic than Smoak, and his range reflects this, not just on pop ups but on grounders too.
4) throwing. while this is undoubtably the least important aspect of playing first base, it is important to remember that Davis has a third basemans arm.
This being said, Smoak was a fine defender. And literally any major leaguer can play first base well enough that they won’t hurt you there (though Arias kinda makes me cringe as a firstbaseman. He seems to play it like a second baseman (which he is) on a wheel play.)
Oh my god! What can it be? We're all doomed! Who's flying this thing?
-Wash
Those are all aspects of defense
But when measured, range comes out as the most important by a large margin.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions
for 7 positions on the field
I would have no argument with you.
But arguing that Range is the most important part of a first baseman’s defense is like arguing that range is the most important part of a catcher’s defense.
Oh my god! What can it be? We're all doomed! Who's flying this thing?
-Wash
Both were fine defensively
it’s really ridiculous to be so focused on defense at 1B. Davis needs to hit.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
If anything they should be rated on their ability to dig balls out of the ground
Especially considering Face’s throwing woes this year
and they both do that well
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions
This is a false statement.
Smoak struggled early on digging MY’s throw out of the dirt. Davis can pick it. Davis >>>> Smoak when it comes to defense. However, his bat is much more important.
"Ooooh....I want some fucking pancakes!" son of willamos2
would you be surprised if the players preferred having Davis defensively at 1B?
we're from Texas
CJ says "Relax"
are you sure the players prefer Wash? Only MY has made any statements to that effect
we're from Texas
CJ says "Relax"
He's the leader
He spaeks for the clubhouse.
"...he’s subliterate and needs to have a cork on his fork to keep from hurting himself when he eats" - AJM on Ron Washington
by Anonymous New Guy on Jul 12, 2010 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions
I love Tanner Scheppers; says all the right things, and is a huge talent
especially like seeing this:
The only thing the Rangers don’t want to do is trade him. The Rangers culminated their search for a No. 1 starter when they acquired Cliff Lee on Friday from the Mariners, but in all their discussions with other clubs, they made it clear they were not willing to talk about Scheppers or Martin Perez.
“I’m really happy about that,” Scheppers said. “This is the team that drafted me and gave me the opportunity. It’s been great through the whole process.”
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jul 12, 2010 11:13 AM CDT reply actions
I hate, hate, hate giving up Smoak for Lee
but if you had to trade someone, better him than Scheppers or Perez. Those pitchers are going to be something special and soon.
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
yep
"The 2010 Rangers...winning despite Ron Washington"
In the interest of quicker games Ron should just tell the ump he's pulling the Feliz card and the ump should rule the inning over.--Sherman McCoy on Sept. 4, 2009
In his defense, you are a retarded cuntbag by LiamP on Mar 4, 2010
oh, if they had traded Perez or Scheppers
I’d really have thrown a fit. I’m already upset… this team should win the division by a margin considerably larger than what Cliff Lee brings to the table. But at least making the playoffs and winning more than one game will be cathartic enough to make me forgive the team somewhat. But if they traded Scheppers or Marteeeen…. wow….. nothing short of a World Series visit would make me okay with seeing one of them in the rotation with King Felix
Go Rice Owls!
I loved everything Justin Smoak brought to this team.
I’m not saying they’re going to have the same careers (although I think Smoak is going to be an absolute stud), but imagine what most of you would be feeling if JD had traded Tiny E for Lee and we were going to roll with Blanco at SS for the rest of this year.
That’s how I feel about losing Justin Smoak and the only way I’ll get over it is if This Thing wins a title – this year.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions
There is a HUGE difference between Andres Blanco and Chris Davis, man.
as well as a HUGE difference between Justin Smoak and Elvis Andrus
She say she are the manager.
by rockin_rangers on Jul 12, 2010 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions
I think Tiny E is going to
be a star with the potential to be a superstar.
I think Justin Smoak is going to be a star.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions
Elvis will be a superstar
mark it down
"...he’s subliterate and needs to have a cork on his fork to keep from hurting himself when he eats" - AJM on Ron Washington
by Anonymous New Guy on Jul 12, 2010 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions
He may be Roberto Alomar as a SS.
That’s a helluva player.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions
Elvis == Robin Yount
Its very funny. I’ve been watching the media and there have been 0 stories about the fact that the Rangers just sent a 21 year old and a 22 year old to the All Star game. That makes both of them younger than the MVP of the Futures game!
Oh my god! What can it be? We're all doomed! Who's flying this thing?
-Wash
probably more Ozzie Smith than Robin or Alomar due to lack of Power
but being compared to any of those 3 players says something about little E
as far as Davis and Smoak, i think there is no doubt that CD is well above Smoak in all aspects of Defense, also he will steal some bases early in his career, as for power and batting average, thats hard to say early on, Smoak probably has more upside, bot as a CD fan i hope that his O will get better as he gets older.
Baseball ain't like football. You can't make up no trick plays. ~Yogi Berra
The difference between those 2 is
that Davis still has a potential future ahead of him while Blanco is a guaranteed good glove, horrible bat. Also, finding another Elvis is a lot harder than finding another Justin Smoak.
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
We don't know with absolute
certainty what Davis is but very few players who sucked as big a dick for as long as Davis did last year ever came back to have a productive career in The Show.
The only shred of hope there is with Davis going forward is the physical ability he showed in 2008. If he can’t make adjustments to the adjustments made towards him, he’s going to be useless in The Show.
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions
You made the same argument about Colbyashi
STFU
"...he’s subliterate and needs to have a cork on his fork to keep from hurting himself when he eats" - AJM on Ron Washington
by Anonymous New Guy on Jul 12, 2010 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions
There's definitely a lot of risk with Davis
I wasn’t for trading Smoak and entrusting Davis with the 1B duties for the rest of the season. But this isn’t the same as trading away Elvis, a 21 year old who is already one of the top SSs in the league, and rolling with Blanco, a guy who no one has or will ever assume can do anything with the bat. If Davis still hasn’t adjusted to the Majors and is going to do worse than Smoak, then you can go out and replace him in FA (assuming we have money) or make a move for a short-term solution that is likely to be as productive as Smoak. Try doing that for a SS and see how much success you have.
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
That nickname
completely sucks.
The bit has run its course and it needs to be laid to rest.
by Whiskey in my Whiskey on Jul 12, 2010 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions
I know the latter outweighs the former in your mind
but Davis has had a very good run of success in the majors prior to last year. Blanco has never had such a big run. Please don’t compare the two…
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jul 12, 2010 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions
Where can we find a suicide bomber so we can send him to Molina's house?
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
Suicide bomber probably wouldn't have any effect
The fat would absorb all the shrapnel.
I wouldn’t trade Michael Main straight up for Bengie Molina, even if my alternate catcher was a pointed stick. - KLaw
Last night, after a couple of scotches
I thought up a parody of Aqualung using Molina. Then I fell asleep and now it’s gone out of my head. It probably wasn’t half as clever as I thought at the time anyway, oh well.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
One thing that isn't being talked about
Is that this homestand also gave away our lead on the Central division in record. While making the playoffs is the obvious and ultimate goal, if this team can stay ahead of the Central leader they are more likely to face the Rays or the Red Sox.
Perhaps I care more about this than the rest of you or perhaps it is still in the “way to early to talk about stage” but I think it is important to consider. I’d feel a lot better having a Central team going up against the Yanks in the first round.
Good point
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions
Huh?
They are still 1/2 game up on Chicago,
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
I don't give a shit who they face in the playoffs
All of the possible opponents will be good teams, and the Rangers are going to have to play very well to beat them. No one of those teams should scare us anymore than the others. All have strengths and weaknesses. What happened in the 90s is completely fucking irrelevant now. Shit, in October, what happened in April isn’t all that relevant.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
There's a decent argument
That there’s a pack including the Rangers, Rays, Red Sox (and probably Twins), but that the Yankees are still significantly better than those good teams.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions
That word "significantly"
is just given too much weight, though. What is the difference between a 100-win team and a 90-win team? It’s not that significant, especially in a 5 or 7 game series.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
It's true
My point is that it’s more of a coin flip between the other AL teams. The Yankees still have a definite advantage…it’s just not as great over a short series.
It’s my version of tapping the breaks, I s’pose.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions
Yankee fear is just one of my pet peeves
The Rangers shouldn’t be lifting their skirts and running away from any team. I felt that way before Lee was here, and he just cements it.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
Exactly. I would love to face the Yankees first series.
The Rangers would probably have to face them anyway at some point. Better to get them early and out of the way.
"I don't really like pitchers." - Nelson Cruz
It's not fear
They’re really good. Our biggest advantage over them is bullpen v bullpen according to StatCorner’s rotation, relief and batting RAA. For defense, it depends if you like DRS (Yanks much better) or UZR (Rangers much better).
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions
Yes, they are really good.
But a lot of Rangers fans would feel they can’t beat the Yankees even if the Rangers finish with the better record this year, or if a couple of Yankees starters went down with injuries. I see no reason to fear the Yankees more than the Rays.
And no one should feel “relieved” to be facing quality teams like the Rays, Sox or Twins.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
anyone
have a link for 2010 derby drinking game?
by I am Neftali Feliz on Jul 12, 2010 11:21 AM CDT reply actions
was it SaltyGoesYard that almost had alchohol poisoning
by drinking a shot every time the Rangers struck out against someone like Sabathia or something?
Something based on Chris Berman would be far worse, and that is saying something
Go Rice Owls!
i played
the one from last year from homerderby.com but that sight seems out of comission… we played with beer instead of liqour… you would die playing with liqour
by I am Neftali Feliz on Jul 12, 2010 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions
I blame GoET for the sweep.
In his preview, he mentioned that the Rangers would lose 3 of 4. Close enough for me to lay blame of a sweep at GoET’s feet. Let’s get him!
This is the 1st 4 game sweep by the O's since 1995
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
ESPN said both
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions
Ugh not both
1st 4 game sweep period
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions
Nadel had the stat yesterday
in 1995 The O’s swept the White Sox 4 games at Comiskey. They have swept the Rangers 1 time in Arlington in a 4 game set – that was back in the ’70’s I believe.
"...he’s subliterate and needs to have a cork on his fork to keep from hurting himself when he eats" - AJM on Ron Washington
by Anonymous New Guy on Jul 12, 2010 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions
wow
dkaplanSBJ BREAKING NEWS: Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan suing TX Rangers because CRO is soliciting other bids; more in SBD shortly
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
And the fun continues
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
It wouldn't be a day that ended in Y without something, eh?
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
dkaplanSBJ Lawsuit claims CRO is “in an attempt to hijack the proceedings,” asks court for damages at a minimum btween their price and new sale price
"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.
by Kinslerhomer on Jul 12, 2010 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions
Why does this CRO wanna run Nolan Ryan out of town?!
She say she are the manager.
by rockin_rangers on Jul 12, 2010 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions
Dumb guy question (the whole bankruptcy thing gives me epic tired head) -
Who is CRO again?
"Dying ain't hard. It's living that's hard."
"The Influence continues." Josey Wales (1/18/10)
"Do you have a set of tits and your own blog? Those are the only Ranger fans I know who think that way."
by Josey Wales on Jul 12, 2010 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions
So if they win the lawsuit
they’d then have the money to make up for the difference between the 2 prices.
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
They are suing the Rangers
Who are taking loans from MLB. So if they win the suit and win the bid wouldn’t they just end up paying interest on the loans from MLB in the long run?
I agree, but we need an expert here
Ima gonna go fire up my WyoRanger bat-beacon!
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
* slaps forehead *
Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. Not all holes, or games, are created equal. George Will
by GhostofSteveFoucault on Jul 12, 2010 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions
* slaps a bitch *
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
by Rodney on Jul 12, 2010 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Here we go
Mike Olt - 2013 A.L. Rookie of the Year.
He declined to accept the award as to not show up his fellow rookies. Incentives earned from being named ROY were donated to a local charity. He did not report this donation on his tax return.
wow. Going nuclear. I would think the players have got to be disgusted at this point
we're from Texas
CJ says "Relax"
No, I'm pretty sure they don't give a shit.
All they care about is winning. They’re in great position to win this year, and I think they really want to take advantage of it and live for the moment, considering the uncertain future facing this team.
"The Angels are like the villain in the movie that isn't dead until he's been stabbed 150 times in the bath tub, yet he still might come back up one more time." - Dave Barnett
And the most memorable and crazy year in Rangers history continues.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
I've said it before
But it should be said again. Somebody needs to write a book.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions
In a manner of speaking this is writing the book
As far as league versus team sale rights for clubs in professional sports at the major league level and as it relates to bankruptcy.
ARRRRRRRRRRRGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just get the damn thing over with already!
"Does this effectively hide my thunder?"
I'll wait until Maury chimes in before I panic
Grieve: The Yanks have struggled so far. - Lewin: Yeah, cry me a bag of money.
ElectricOkra.com
Another day, another hiccup in the sale.
Figures.
"I think I'm going to name my new car Scooter, because it dominates on the road." - mikeyoungfuturehof, 9.10.09
"I’ve been a Rangers fan all my life and I can tell you there’s been plenty of fucking crying in baseball…" - WhipSmart, 6.3.08
Greenberg & Nolan
Not at all surprised by this- they had a bid accepted in good faith by MLB, and the courts still keep trying to push it aside, with the help of the creditors, and possibly Hicks.
If Greenberg & Nolan don’t get the team, I hope they sue the ever-loving hell out of Hicks and everyone else that’s screwed this up, and bankrupt every one of those sons of bitches.
They should just sue him for the heck of it on behalf of the fans...
Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. Not all holes, or games, are created equal. George Will
by GhostofSteveFoucault on Jul 12, 2010 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Same here.
"The Angels are like the villain in the movie that isn't dead until he's been stabbed 150 times in the bath tub, yet he still might come back up one more time." - Dave Barnett
Even if they did win an auction
their new price will have to be significantly more than the previous price which should have been paid for the team 6 fucking months ago. If Hicks and Monarch hadn’t been complete fuck faces, this would have been done. If an auction happens, (and I hope to god it doesn’t) then whoever wins, Greenberg has been royally screwed. It hurts my head that a third party with no direct involvement in the sale has managed to block said sale for so long. If I buy a car from someone, I give them the money, and he gives me the car. There’s no reason why this sale shouldn’t have gone the same way.
Oh my god! What can it be? We're all doomed! Who's flying this thing?
-Wash
drink everytime
you hear the word CRO. you hear the name greenberg. you hear the word trustee. you hear the word bankruptcy… ah shit im drunk
by I am Neftali Feliz on Jul 12, 2010 11:40 AM CDT reply actions
It's like everyone has been dropping a turd in our splendid punch bowl
and at this point there isn’t any visible punch left
we're from Texas
CJ says "Relax"
Mmm, atomic buffalo turds
Haven’t had them in a long time (yuck, these have sausage or hotdogs too)
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
OBTW, Texas Jonathan
Lots of talk about Wiggington locally, I think something may be brewing…
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
Yeah, that is true
It just seems a little more heightened right now. I know Norm is old and annoying, but he is leading the charge, and he does have Rangers sources…so…
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
Interesting...
I wouldn’t trade Michael Main straight up for Bengie Molina, even if my alternate catcher was a pointed stick. - KLaw
With any luck, that series will be the last kick to the balls we have to endure this season.
Every team is going to have low spots, but the curse of being a Rangers fan is that their low spots have a way of making you feel hopeless. This is a different team though. Hopefully this is the year the demons get stomped and this team becomes a perennial winner.
"Ok, post your favorite moment of the Tom Hicks era
Mine is today when he sold the team." - t ball
I think it's funny...
that TR writes an article about Josh’s chances of getting a triple crown, but he doesn’t even mention Vlad. I think Vlad has just as good of a shot at it as Josh right now.
And really, there are 3 guys in the AL (along with Cabrera) who could win it. I don’t expect any of them to do it, but those three guys are just having monster seasons right now.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
I'd say Cabrera has the best shot
Mike Olt - 2013 A.L. Rookie of the Year.
He declined to accept the award as to not show up his fellow rookies. Incentives earned from being named ROY were donated to a local charity. He did not report this donation on his tax return.
Dunno if anyone linked it
Interesting article on Leuke, and whether Seattle knew about his charges or not
Haha! LSB people post over there too? Look at this post:
Justin Smoak a bust already? Based on your observations of two games at the age of 24?
Just kidding.
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
The comments on that article are great.
They all act like they’ve never sodomized an unconcious woman before.
And we all know that everyone has.
It’s Advil and beef in the Texas Rangers, you yankee bastard.
- Nolan Ryan
interesting
well, obviously there was a reason Seattle was only ranked the 6th best organization in baseball. Not digging into why everyone used the term “baggage” when talking about Leuke would be one of them…. how could they not know?
Go Rice Owls!
I think a black mark went next to Z's name on this one
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
AL lineup
aandro The AL lineup Ichiro, Jeter, Cabrera, Hamilton, Guerrero, Longoria, Mauer, Cano, Crawford.
Mike Olt - 2013 A.L. Rookie of the Year.
He declined to accept the award as to not show up his fellow rookies. Incentives earned from being named ROY were donated to a local charity. He did not report this donation on his tax return.
I don't really think it's gonna matter what lineup the NL throws out there
this AL squad could seriously put up a trillion runs. Seriously.
"Does this effectively hide my thunder?"
Roy Halladay, Ubaldo Jiminez, and Josh Johnson wave hello.
Lincecum, Wainwright and Gallardo would like a chance after them…
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Yup...
the NL can’t match that lineup, but damn do they have some pitching.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
sarcasm
poorly written on my part….I accept full responsibility
"Does this effectively hide my thunder?"
The Angels have 2 players over 2.0 WAR (+1 right at 2.0)
The Rangers have 7.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah
The Rangers have outscored their opponents by 74 runs, where as the Angels have been outscored by 24 runs. in third order, however, the Rangers have only outscored their opponents by 32 runs, while the Angels have been outscored by 35 runs.
Basically, what BP’s adjustments are saying is that one of the reasons the rangers pitching is as good as it is is that the hitters they’ve pitched against (Mariner’s, A’s, Pirates, Astros) have sucked the sweat off a dead man’s balls.
They also faced the Brewers and White Sox and Cubs.
The Red Sox and Yankees have both scored more than twice as many runs as the Pirates. I may have been overestimating the hitters that the Rangers have faced.
Oh my god! What can it be? We're all doomed! Who's flying this thing?
-Wash
The Pirates are phenomenally bad.
Even for the worst team in the majors.
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions
obviously
nothing of what I mentioned before includes the addition of Cliff Lee.
as I heard on XM MLB yesterday evening, the addition of Cliff Lee basically forces the Angels to make a deal to have any hope in the AL west.
Oh my god! What can it be? We're all doomed! Who's flying this thing?
-Wash
On that note (+lols)
…Angels, who ended a dismal road trip 1-6. It’s the first time since 2006 that Los Angeles entered the break outside of first place in the AL West. They remained 4 1/2 games behind the Texas Rangers.
Fuck ’em ’til their eyes bug out.
Updated 07/12 Playoff Odds from BP:
82.80408 Baby, 2nd Highest in MLB!!!
"I support you, Wash; I’ve always supported you," Young said
"Back on the scene, with a gangsta lean" RW
Or...
the Halos are going to regret not closing the gap when the Rangers run away and hide from them in the second half.
Think positive!
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
What are the chances
that we see Schepper’s heater in the bigs by the end of the season? I’m hoping to see him recreate David Price’s performance for the Rays in late 2008. Any thoughts?
I'm think in Aug he gets called up to replace Nippert.
They will end up using him similar to how they used Feliz last year.
yeah
they can give him the whole week off in AAA one more time and then bring him up
"Drinks are on me if Lewis posts >168IP and an era lower than 3.86." by RangerMad on Jan 20, 2010 12:36 PM PST
"HE GETS THE GODDAM CLEAT" by philkid3
I believe the Rangers want to keep Scheppers at
about 100IP for 2010. Last year Feliz pitched 37.2 innings for the Rangers after making his first appearance on 8/3. Scheppers ahs thrown 50 innings this year. Three more starts gets him close to 65IP and August 1st. I wouldn’t be surprised if Nippert gets traded for a hot dog (teams in a pennant race get desperate) and Scheppers takes his place.
Spicy mustard or no deal!
If Brad Pitt is playing Beane who do you want playing you?
JD: Eddie Guardado.
by GhettoBear04 on Jul 12, 2010 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions
I asked Jason Parks...
the same question and he’s almost certain we will see him this year. The only question is how soon.
"The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance."-Socrates
yeah I'd imagine by mid-August
but they may wait until September callups; when do you have to have the playoff roster finalized?
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jul 12, 2010 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions
so ideally he'll be here by July 31st
"Hang-Dai, Wu...Hang-Fu$&ing-Dai"
by Walter Sobchak on Jul 12, 2010 4:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Didn't see it anywhere else on here, so
Padilla plunked Byrd in last night’s game apparently for comments Byrd made about Padilla when the Rangers released him.
Idiot.
Be sure to visit Mosul's new blog at www.mosuldolfan.blogspot.com/
"Townes Van Zandt is the best songwriter in the whole world and I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that."-Steve Earle
"I'd rather be a dead Gram Parsons than a live Garth Brooks"-Kinky Friedman
by texascowpunk on Jul 12, 2010 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Interesting that Washington made comments about Lee and Wilson but not Lewis
We also set it up so we can get our best pitchers against some of the toughest teams. We tried to make sure we had C.J. and Cliff Lee in the mix against Oakland and Anaheim. Make sure we had them in the mix against Boston.
I am wondering if he knows something about Lewis that has not been publicly announced, i.e. an injury that is making him lose confidence in his ability to go forward.
we're from Texas
CJ says "Relax"
I am seriously wondering if there is an issue
While CJ leads the team in innings pitched so far (113 vs 110), Colby leads in strike outs (105 vs 82), lower opposing OBP (.283 vs .315). Opposing BA is roughly the same (.210 vs .209), but Cj has allowed fewer total bases and a significantly lower slugging % (.310 vs .345) . The team is also 12-6 in games Cj has pitched vs 9-8 for Colby’s games.
RW has shifted the rotation once already to give Lewis more days rest and to drop one start before the ASB. Now he is going to essentially push another Lewis start off. It would not make sense to me to do this based on the high level of performance we have seen from Colby. I would put him up against the Angels or Red Sox any day but RW curiously omitted him in his comments. I worry that means that the Cobra is nursing an issue that we are not privy to.
we're from Texas
CJ says "Relax"
I think you're parsing words too much
especially words that come from a guy not noted for his speaking ability.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
I think they are just being smart
Lewis was on a very different schedule the last two years in Japan, and has already thrown a lot of innings. He seems to run up to 100 pitches by the 5th or 6th innings most starts. I think they should be treating Lewis with kid gloves, and both he and Wilson should get some extra rest at times the rest of the season. But Wilson has been on a 162 game schedule for years, mentally he’s probably a bit less in need of that.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
he pitched 354 innings in 2 seasons in Japan
do they have a different days off schedule?
Update – my worries about Colbyashi being injured are unfounded. I got word there is nothing wrong
we're from Texas
CJ says "Relax"
Good to hear
I’m trusting your sources. Yes, I think they pitch every 6 days over there, and he’s on pace for 200 innings this year.
Freude schöner Götterfunken, Tochter aus Elysium, Freude!
Not only that
Wash builds relationships with players that we don’t see, causing some crazy bias.
Colby Lewis is the new Nelson Cruz.
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