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About Jon
Thank You For Not ...

1) using profanity or any euphemisms for profanity
2) personally attacking other commenters
3) baiting other commenters
4) arguing for the sake of arguing
5) discussing politics
6) using hyperbole when something less will suffice
7) using sarcasm in a way that can be misinterpreted negatively
8) making the same point over and over again
9) typing "no-hitter" or "perfect game" to describe either in progress
10) being annoyed by the existence of this list
11) commenting under the obvious influence
12) claiming your opinion isn't allowed when it's just being disagreed with

April 7 Open Chat: The Pendulum Swings
2005-04-07 17:00
by Jon Weisman

Today, the Dodgers are playing .500 ball. Tomorrow, they're at .667 or .333. Hang on!

Tonight's Game

* * *

Precede your first comment of the evening by responding to any or all of the following.

1) State (or foreign land) of current residence. (Let's see how much ground we cover. I know D.C. is taken by at least Sam and Ben.)

2) Predicted 2005 ERA for Jeff Weaver.

3) Predicted final score for Friday's game, Dodgers at Arizona, with probable starters Elmer Dessens and Shawn Estes.

4) Yes or no: Did you know Jose Offerman was on a major league team's 2005 Opening Day roster?

Comments (324)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2005-04-07 17:06:55
1.   kirk gibson
1. CA (bay area)
2. 3.87
3. 1-0 (Dessens with the no-hitter but walks 8, including the go-ahead run)
4. no. atleast its not our opening day roster.

hopefully the dodger bats can come alive again tonight and Weaver can give us a quality start.

2005-04-07 17:08:29
2.   Sam NYC
NYC
3.24
8-6 the LADdies win
I didn't know he was still alive
2005-04-07 17:08:55
3.   Sam NYC
Sorry, I know NYC isn't a state. Just habit.
2005-04-07 17:09:07
4.   Eric Enders
I just hope it's not a Poe-style pendulum, Jon. Then we might be in trouble.
2005-04-07 17:10:34
5.   Bob Timmermann
1. CA
2. 4.02
3. 8-6 Dodgers
4. Wow, really. I was shocked to see Jeff Fassero yesterday.
2005-04-07 17:10:58
6.   Sam NYC
I would like to take this opportunity to point out that the team in winless when Choi plays and undefeated when he doesn't.
2005-04-07 17:11:33
7.   Eric Enders
Ah, crap, I already violated the directive. My second post will have to do:

1. Cooperstown, New York.
2. 3.89 ERA
3. Dodgers 3, DBacks 2
4. Nope.

2005-04-07 17:12:16
8.   Mr Customer
1)CA
2)4.31
3)My sources say 15-3, but they don't tell me which team is which, so take that with a grain of salt
4)Yes

It's almost time to find out if this year's Tomko will be the scuffler we all know and love, or if he'll still be last years more viable model

2005-04-07 17:15:49
9.   Sam NYC
Eric,

You're pretty aggressive for an upstater.

2005-04-07 17:16:05
10.   Jon Weisman
Even in his bad years, Tomko seemed to do well against the Dodgers, didn't he?

Can anyone tell me who the Angels' most hated or intense rival in the American League is? What's their closest equivalent to L.A.-S.F.?

2005-04-07 17:16:38
11.   Marty
1. CA (Altadena)
2. 4.24
3. Dodgers 5, Snakes 4 on a game-ending DP by Green
4. No, who?
2005-04-07 17:17:28
12.   Marty
It's not Oakland?
2005-04-07 17:18:06
13.   Jacob L
1. L.A., CA . In fact I'll wager that I'm the closest one living to Dodger Stadium. 2.2 miles according to google maps. Actually closer as the crow flies.

2. 4.00

3. 6-4 dodgers

4. No, but it doesn't surprise me.

2005-04-07 17:20:59
14.   dzzrtRatt
1) California (LA area)
2) 3.141592654
3) 9-6 Arizona
4) Did not know but strongly suspected. Didn't he hit a home run in his first major league at bat, with the Dodgers?

Anyway...who would have expected that Valentin would quickly become the center of attention? He is personally 1-1 for the season. Perhaps one day it will be said, that the 2005 Dodgers rise and fall with Valentin.

2005-04-07 17:22:36
15.   Sam NYC
Jon,

I don't think they have anything close. I think the LA-SF thing is unusual in CA (not enough reasons to despise anything). It's a holdover from NY because, didn't you know, hatred was INVENTED in NY.

2005-04-07 17:24:01
16.   Eric Enders
"Even in his bad years, Tomko seemed to do well against the Dodgers, didn't he?"

I object to this statement on the grounds that it implies Tomko has had good years. ;)

2005-04-07 17:24:03
17.   Rainman
1. Alabama
2. 3.97
3. 9-7 LA
4. Actually, yes (I play in a really, REALLY deep fantasy league)

So, does the Brett Tomko of the previous four seasons show up tonight, or the imposter from '04?

2005-04-07 17:24:45
18.   In Enemy Country
1) San Francisco, CA
2) 3.75
3) 5-3 LA, Elmer gets revenge on his old mates.
4) Wow
2005-04-07 17:25:25
19.   Eric L
1). Southern CA

2). 3.95

3). 12-10 Dodgers

4). Yes, thanks to the fine folks at BTF

2005-04-07 17:25:57
20.   Jim Hitchcock
1. Ca
2. 4.12
3. 8-5 L.A.
4. Is Offerman the guy with the brother named Vladimir?
2005-04-07 17:28:45
21.   kngoworld
1) California (Burbank)
2) 4.08
3) 4 - 2 Dodgers
4) NO
2005-04-07 17:29:32
22.   Jam
1. Evansville, Indiana
2. 4.50
3. 5-3
4. Yes
2005-04-07 17:30:25
23.   In Enemy Country
If the Dodgers can drop a beating on Tomko tonight it could crush his already fragile psyche. Maybe Jason Philips should offer $100 bounties for home runs.
2005-04-07 17:30:43
24.   Sam NYC
Here's a question:

If the Giants team plane crashed, would you:

A) Jump for joy
B) Express sorrow but secretly be happy
C) Think they had it coming (i.e. God IS a Dodger)
D) Genuinely be upset
E) Not care
F) At one point or another, all of the above

2005-04-07 17:30:46
25.   Jerry
1. Utah (returning to Los Angeles this summer)
2. 4.10
3. 6-5 Dodgers
4. No
2005-04-07 17:31:55
26.   In Enemy Country
B, as long as Barry was on the plane. Am I going to hell for thinking that?
2005-04-07 17:32:27
27.   Steve
1) Utah
2) 3.96
3) 7-5 Dodgers
4) Yes, and I know which one too.
2005-04-07 17:32:37
28.   Icaros
1) CA
2) 4.37
3) 8-6 LA
4) Yes, actually, but I forget what team.
2005-04-07 17:33:28
29.   FirstMohican
1. CA (West LA)
2. 3.80
3. 3-0 LA
4. Just as long as it aint the Dodgers.

Monster game from Choi tonight for sure, I can feel it.

Remember Offerman's breakout All-Star first half with the Dodgers? That reminds me, remember how Beltre wasn't an all-star last season?

2005-04-07 17:33:43
30.   Sam NYC
IEC,

No, be honest. The anonymity of the internet is your friend. ;)

2005-04-07 17:36:26
31.   Jon Weisman
#24 - Not to be a downer, or take things too seriously (are we meant to take the question seriously?), but D a million times over.
2005-04-07 17:36:34
32.   Eric Enders
Steve Garvey was not on the All-Star ballot in 1974 when he won the MVP.

Kirk Gibson was left off the All-Star team in 1988 when he won the MVP.

Adrian Beltre was the mere-mortal-MVP of the NL last year, no All-Star team.

Hmm...

2005-04-07 17:36:43
33.   In Enemy Country
Sam
I really hate that guy. I played college baseball fairly recently and know what steroids can do for average ballplayers. Combine them with Barry's skills? ( insert awe filled whistling here)
2005-04-07 17:39:25
34.   Sam NYC
Jon,

Take it seriously if you like. I mean, they ARE human beings with families. But take it as a joke if you like. No group of people has caused me as much pain in my life as the SF Giants, so I don't mind musing.

Also, Jon, if you feel even joking about the matter is inappropriate for your site, please say so. If it is, I apologize for posting it.

2005-04-07 17:41:28
35.   FirstMohican
Wow Eric, interesting facts...

On #24...

D, and this is why:

If the Giants' plane crashed, I'd have to hear all over every sports station about how our division is now even weaker, and how if Barry Bonds and co. were alive, they would've won the division and not the Dodgers.

2005-04-07 17:42:17
36.   Sam NYC
EIC,

I'm with you on the hate. More than the LADs, I love baseball. It is the perfect sport and that %#@!*&% compromises its integrity. I hope there's some evidence out there that locks him in so people have no remorse in banning him from the game.

2005-04-07 17:45:31
37.   In Enemy Country
How about Gagne getting tossed last night! It's that kind of attitude that makes him the "Sledgehammer of God". Sorry Mariano.
2005-04-07 17:46:25
38.   Jon Weisman
Kinda feels like poor taste/bad karma to me, but you know me, Mr. Sensitive. I don't mean to make you or anyone defensive about it.
2005-04-07 17:48:41
39.   Bob Timmermann
Tonight's lineup has Choi batting 8th.
Repko bats 2nd in left
Everybody else where they are expected

Alou is not playing for the Giants tonight:
Durham
Vizquel
Snow
Feliz
Alfonzo
Grissom
Tucker
Matheny
Tomko

2005-04-07 17:49:27
40.   gvette
1. Ca.(Pasadena/Arcadia)
2. 4.20
3. 10-9 (Whoever can get three outs in a row wins)
4. Knew that he had a non roster invite to ST. Wonder if OffErman and Lenny Harris ever get together and laugh about all the groundballs they kicked.
2005-04-07 17:53:59
41.   Eric Enders
I suppose a lot of people here already know this, but when Jose was in Double-A ball, he changed the spelling of his name from "Oferman" to "Offerman," probably so as to thwart any o-fer jokes. As it turned out, unfortunately, it wasn't his hitting that was the joke.
2005-04-07 17:57:19
42.   godvls
1. CA (West Valley)
2. 4.68
3. 11-5 Diamondbacks
4. I'd heard a rumor about this.

Re: #24 D...it's only baseball

2005-04-07 17:59:04
43.   Linkmeister
1. Honolulu suburbs (Aiea), Hawai'i
2. 4.32
3. Pick 'em (i.e., not a clue)
4. Nope

Extra credit Giants plane crash question: D

2005-04-07 17:59:21
44.   hawaiidodgersfan
1. Hawaii (we get FSN2 and the Dodger broadcast on cable but get the Giants radio game broadcasts (they are very entertaining when the Giants lose but I can't listen when they win!)
2. 3.50
3. Dodgers 5, D'backs 4 Dessens will do well early on but but not last beyond the 5th...
4. Nope.
2005-04-07 17:59:50
45.   Rick
1) CA (near DS)
2) 3.97
3) 4-3 Dodgers
4) Yah - on Cincinnati or something?
2005-04-07 18:00:01
46.   Linkmeister
If you're serious about the geography, see if Fairpole can accommodate Bravenet's GuestMap javascript.
2005-04-07 18:00:19
47.   corey
1. NB, CA
2. 3.20
3. 6-4
4. I did know that. And I have the same reaction every year: huh?

Looking forward to Weaver's domination tonight!

2005-04-07 18:01:09
48.   LetsGoDodgers
1. CA (City of Angels)
2. 4.57
3. 11-8 Blue Crew
4. Yes, unfortunately

The Angels biggest rival is the Dodgers.

Even in his down years, Tomko pitched fairly well against us:

117.2 IP
3.90 ERA
1.24 WHIP
.248 BAA
2.45 K/BB

I anticipate quiet bats again tonight, but the Dodgers still win. I cannot emphasize how much it matters that we beat the Giants sans Bonds. Hollow as these Barry-free victories may be, it'll matter when the season ends and we win the division.

2005-04-07 18:03:32
49.   In Enemy Country
Weaver should be good for 7+ tonight. The only guy he really had trouble with in SF has been Barry, plus no Alou.

"I don't consider us an old team. We're a VETERAN team." Brian Sabean

2005-04-07 18:04:33
50.   Eric Enders
Tallying things up so far, we have 13 posters (including Jon) for whom L.A. is the closest geographic team. (either Angels or Dodgers)

And 10 posters for whom L.A. is not the closest team.

FWIW.

Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2005-04-07 18:06:19
51.   LetsGoDodgers
RE: # 41

I remember the old Keith Olbermann line when he did the sports for a local TV station (KCBS???):

Q: How do you spell 'Offerman'?
A: With 2 F's and 30 E's

Bad joke then, tired joke now. Jose's play in the field easily aged Tommy 5 years prematurely, back in the day.

2005-04-07 18:08:25
52.   Eric Enders
"Jose's play in the field easily aged Tommy 5 years prematurely"
----------

In fairness, I suspect all that booze and pasta contributed their fair share as well...

2005-04-07 18:10:16
53.   Linkmeister
There's two Hawai'i Dodger fans in here? hawaiidodgersfan, you're not Gene Kaneshiro's grandson or nephew or somethin', are ya? ;)

(Kaneshiro used to own/run Columbia Inn in Honolulu, a restaurant decorated almost solely in Dodger memorabilia, with great food).

2005-04-07 18:12:00
54.   Eric Enders
Was the 51s game rained out or something? I just tried to listen in and all I get is two numbskulls discussing UNLV basketball.
2005-04-07 18:13:22
55.   Borchard504
1> North Kentucky (Cincinnati essentially)
2> 3.45 (The Weave is a favorite Dodger of mine)
3> 5-4 (lower score than you think)

From what I saw of Weaver last year, he never backed off, no matter how tough the situation he was in. Great competitive spirit it seemed. He just doesnt sound like the pitcher all the NY papers made him out to be.

2005-04-07 18:13:39
56.   Eric L
Did you know the historic firsts for Anaheim Stadium all happened in 1998?

I understand why ESPN listed it as such, but I seem to remember going to games while the stadium was being renovated.

If a stadium has been around for years and it gets a facelift, does the history of the stadium get reset?

2005-04-07 18:15:20
57.   Denezin
1. DC (Cap Hill)
2. 3.53
3. 6-4 LOS
4. No way
2005-04-07 18:17:48
58.   molokai
1) CA
2) 3.93
3) Ari 8 Dodgers 6
4) Yes, I actually have a Jose Offerman baseball card from Double A when I thought he was going to be a HOF. Even then, I had prospect envy. Other then Mike Sharperson the worse Dodger All-Star ever. Took the spot of Karros the one time Eric deserved it.
2005-04-07 18:17:54
59.   Jim Tracy
1) CA (West San Fernando Valley)
2) 3.22
3) 11-5 Dodgers (Kent grand slam and then trips on his mustache while circling the bases)
4) Jose who? Working in baseball is like belonging to the mafia. Once you get in, you have a job for life.

Regarding Anaheim's rivalry, there is no match for Dodgers-Giants. The only serious heartbreak they've had has been caused by the Red Sox and they hate the Dodgers thanks to the inferiority complex the team has adapted down in OC. Man, those were happier days before Anaheim had won the World Series. Oh well, better them than the Giants.

2005-04-07 18:20:15
60.   Jim Tracy
sigh why couldn't the dodgers give up good prospects to oakland and acquire time hudson?
2005-04-07 18:20:29
61.   Jim Tracy
:0 i mean, tim hudson
2005-04-07 18:23:05
62.   Jim Tracy
I just don't get Tracy. Shouldn't Choi be hitting above Valentin? Yes he should. Is Tracy going to give him a serious chance or not? No he isn't. Will Choi finish the night 0-1 with 3 walks? You can bet Jose Valentin's glove on it.
2005-04-07 18:23:09
63.   Mark
1. CA (South Bay)
2. 4.65
3. 12-2 Diamondbacks (hey, someone has to be different)
4. No.
2005-04-07 18:23:25
64.   Mark
Er, South Bay Los Angeles, not South Bay Area.
2005-04-07 18:28:10
65.   Ben P
1) L.A. native, D.C. resident (I believe there are two of us Bens here in the nation's capital who post regularly).

2) 3.73

3) Dodgers win, 6-4

4) I did know that Offerman was still in the majors. After a nuclear war, it will be him and the cockroaches (and maybe Julio Franco) left standing. I also know that I was at at Dodger Stadium for Offerman's very first major league game. He homered in his first career AB and had 3 hits, leading my friend and I to debate how much our ticket stubs would be worth once Offerman was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Ha.

2005-04-07 18:28:21
66.   the OZ
1) CA.
2) 4.34.
3) 7-5. Dodgers.
4) No.

Tonight's prediction: Drew destroys Tomko.

2005-04-07 18:37:44
67.   Jonathan
Eric Enders,
I had the same problem as you with the Vegas game feed. Go to the Colorado Springs Sky Sox website and on the top right of the page there is a link to listen live. We even get to hear the play-by-play guys swearing during what would be commercials if we were listening over the air waves.

Harold Eckert was just put in after starting pitcher Ryan Rupe took a line drive in the hip.

lineup
Stanley RF
Schrager 3B
Ross CF
Edwards 1B
Chen LF
Aybar 2B
Navarro C
Flores SS
Rupe SP

2005-04-07 18:38:23
68.   GoBears
1. CA (West LA)
2. 3.90
3. 5-2 D-Bax (this is based on my memory that Estes pitches well against the Dodgers, but then this is a whole new set of Dodgers, so who knows? We know Choi won't see the field....
4. Wow. I just looked - it's an NL team, so either pinch-hitting or out there causing headaches....
2005-04-07 18:38:35
69.   DodgerfaninNY
1. New York
2. 3.50
3. 8-4 Dodgers
4. Yes, but I bet he isn't playing shortstop

Brett Tomko's ERA this year- 4.82

2005-04-07 18:44:04
70.   GoBears
Choi's batting behind Valentin and Phillips? Yeah, Tracy is a moron. Not that I think batting order matters much, but to me, this means that Tracy thinks of Choi as the worst hitter on the team ('cept for maybe Saenz). I know that a manager has to have a lot of other qualities, and other than communication skills, maybe Tracy has those in abundance. But I'd sure like a manager who understood the value of OBP. Maybe they'll ease Tim Wallach into the job next year.
2005-04-07 18:44:29
71.   Jonathan
Oh, and:

1) California (Santa Monica)
2) 4.15
3) 8-5, LA
4) No

2005-04-07 18:44:46
72.   Smirk
1. LA
2. 4.0
3. Rain out.
4. Nope.
2005-04-07 18:45:12
73.   Sam DC
Between reading 400 comments a day and now a quiz, this whole Dodger Thoughts thing is turning into a serious committment . . .

Home: DC (Denezin -- we're neighbors, I live right by the Barracks -- you can find sat photos of the neighborhood if you go to the Catfish Stew sat photo of RFK and scroll over)
Weaver: 3.33
AZ: Dodgers win 5-3
Offerman: Didn't know.
Porn Star Name: Pepsi Dunleer (yes, we named our Dog Pepsi)

Does Drew have a hit yet this year? No whoop, but it's funny the ink and bits spilled on poor Jose Valentin, and nothing on 0-for Drew.

2005-04-07 18:45:26
74.   Gold Star for Robot Boy
1. Central Florida
2. 4.18
3. 6-4, Dodgers.
4. No.
2005-04-07 18:50:50
75.   Sam DC
Re my #73, I realize the error was a fairly crystalizing moment. If Drew had gotten a preconception-reinforcing hangnail or something, he probably would've been the target.

Looks like we may have critical mass for a DC-based gathering (at some point, when I'm not scrambling around with a 4 week old kid).

2005-04-07 18:51:20
76.   Shaky the Mohel
1) Ohio
2) 3.91
3) Dodgers 9-8
4) Yes
2005-04-07 18:52:15
77.   KAYVMON
1. Ithaca, NY
2. 3.45
2. 7-6 (a game we win that is deja vu to last year with us coming back and Shawn Green hitting into a double play with the bases loaded to end the game)
4. Who?
2005-04-07 18:55:44
78.   Eric Enders
Jonathan (67), thanks for the tip. That worked.

It's nice to be listening to some sort of game, at least. I had hoped to watch streaming video of the Portsmouth Invitational tonight, until I discovered that they're charging $200.00 for the video stream. Sheesh.

At least good ol' AAA baseball audio is free.

2005-04-07 18:59:14
79.   Eric Enders
The announcers just said J.D. Drew's brother will be the starting pitcher against the 51s on Saturday. I didn't even know he had a pitching brother...
2005-04-07 19:04:53
80.   Jonathan
Free, if crappy.
2005-04-07 19:05:19
81.   Eric Enders
You know, I never cared one whit about the Angels name change until today. But right now, Arte Moreno is my mortal enemy.

The dweebs who run MLB Extra Innings have confused the LA Angels with the LA Dodgers. They're running the Angel game on the station the Dodger game is supposed to be on. (And the Angels game is also on the channel the Angels game is supposed to be on -- it's on twice, with no Dodger game in sight.)

Grrr. I hope they remove their heads from their posteriors post-haste.

2005-04-07 19:08:14
82.   Jonathan
I recommend an irate phone call to those jerks suggesting they are doing this on purpose because they don't like Moneyball.
2005-04-07 19:14:22
83.   Eric Enders
Woo-hoo! They actually fixed it surprisingly quickly. Now I'm a happy boy, at least until they cut in and start showing Heidi or something.
2005-04-07 19:14:37
84.   GoBears
They just went through some highlights from yesterday's game on FSN2. Which reminded me of something I didn't see anyone mention last night. Was it just me, or did the Dodgers get 4 or 5 pop-fly hits last night, when the geriatric outfielders just couldn't get to the balls? Valentin's single was like that. There were a few others as well. That's not even counting Torcato's bobble or that goofy carom (and he's a young guy). But Alou, Grissom, and even Feliz (29 but plays older) all looked like they were nailed to the ground. My wife noticed on the 3rd or 4th one, and said, "if I were a Giants fan, I'd be going nuts about all those extra hits!"
2005-04-07 19:15:55
85.   GoBears
Tucker too. They went thru a lot of bad OFers last night.
2005-04-07 19:17:42
86.   Eric Enders
GoBears, I think that might be as much the ballpark as anything. PacBell's outfield is so massive that there's just a ton of room for bloopers to drop in.

Of course, this is where it's nice to have three CFs in the outfield (like the Dodgers) instead of three DHs in the outfield (like the Jints do when Barry's around).

2005-04-07 19:20:15
87.   Steve
They're giving me Vin Scully tonight! Yay.

RHP. Choi eighth. Grr...

2005-04-07 19:21:50
88.   Sam DC
Six out of our starting nine have first names that being with J.
2005-04-07 19:24:10
89.   Jim Hitchcock
Geez, Eric, it's driving me crazy...what was the name of that movie?
2005-04-07 19:28:04
90.   Eric L
Isn't Tim Drew JD's brother?
2005-04-07 19:31:22
91.   Eric Enders
I didn't realize that, Eric L; I only knew about Stephen.
2005-04-07 19:33:04
92.   Bob Timmermann
Jim Kaat would have thrown out Durham at second.

That's the only time I'm doing that tonight.

2005-04-07 19:35:50
93.   Formerly R
1. CA (High Desert)
2. 3.91
3. 11-11 (Selig's there. He calls it.)
4. No, but I do own a Jose Offerman broken off bat handle that was scavenged from the Metrodome clubhouse. Any bids? All mythical proceeds benefit mythical orphaned children of Giants' players.

-R.

2005-04-07 19:36:59
94.   bokonon42
1. CA (Inland Empire)
2. 3.88
3. 7-4 Dodgers
4. I knew he was with the Twins last year, but not that he made a roster this year. That he won't play defense isn't any excuse for him to still be employed. Offerman personally caused me more heartache than the Giants have yet. I wonder if Jon is bringing him up just to defang Valentin critics. . .
2005-04-07 19:39:17
95.   Gold Star for Robot Boy
Ok, let's settle this now before someone gets hurt: Is it VAL-en-tin, or val-en-TEEN? Vin seems to prefer the latter.
2005-04-07 19:42:50
96.   Sam NYC
Up and in. Oh, but now it must be because he's batting eigthth.
2005-04-07 19:47:37
97.   apsio
1. Japan (just north of Tokyo)
2. 3.74 ERA
3. 6-4, L.A.
4. No clue he made it.
2005-04-07 19:48:20
98.   Marty
proper Spanish would make it ValenTEEN if I remember my high school Spanish correctly
2005-04-07 19:50:57
99.   Bob Timmermann
Jose spells his last name with an accent on the i.
2005-04-07 19:53:09
100.   Bob Timmermann
Going back to Dodgers almost hitting for the cycle, Izturis almost did it last year in Arizona, missing out on the double. He actually had a single and was thrown at second trying to stretch it on a questionable call.
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2005-04-07 19:58:40
101.   GoBears
Eric,

Yeah, I know that SBC is cavernous, esp. in RC. But these were all fly balls - not line drives or true "bloopers" just over the infield. These seemed to be in the air for quite a while, such that I was (pleasantly) surprised that these guys couldn't flag 'em down. On TV anyway, they sure looked like they were running verrrrry slowly. I'm used to that from Bonds over the last couple years - the downside risk of injury is just too great. But it just emphasized how old and mediocre this OF is. That's going to cost them some games.

2005-04-07 20:01:39
102.   Gold Star for Robot Boy
The Dodgers' new ad campaign is way cool. As cool as the bobblehead family was lame.
2005-04-07 20:02:39
103.   Sam NYC
Who holds the record for most home runs by a Dodger switch hitter?

I want to say Eddie Murray ...

2005-04-07 20:02:52
104.   Bob Timmermann
I think most people would think a Giants outfield of Bonds, Grissom, and Alou would have trouble in SBC Park.

However, for some reason, this was not considered to be a negative factor in the Giants assembling a team this year.

2005-04-07 20:03:54
105.   Bob Timmermann
Reggie Smith had 32.
2005-04-07 20:04:53
106.   Sam NYC
He's gonna get on base! He's gonna get on base!
2005-04-07 20:05:06
107.   Gold Star for Robot Boy
Choi shows the patience from which he's held in high esteem.
2005-04-07 20:05:38
108.   Gold Star for Robot Boy
FOR which...
2005-04-07 20:08:13
109.   Bob Timmermann
So, do I win a prize?
2005-04-07 20:08:23
110.   Sam NYC
Good call Timmerman
2005-04-07 20:10:16
111.   EricN
Seattle, Washington (for school at UW), but back home to Culver City in the summer

3.64

8-7 Dodgers

Yeah I knew, but I am not proud of that.

2005-04-07 20:11:07
112.   Sam NYC
That glove just shows: Giants can't count.
2005-04-07 20:16:06
113.   Marty
Bradley just did the shoosh thing again on Snows fly out
2005-04-07 20:16:07
114.   Ben P
Hitting Choi eighth is a great way to boost his walk totals.

As for Valentin, it is indeed Valen-TEEN, though Harry Caray probably would have said "Joe-say Valentine." One of my many complaints to Cubs fans who idolized Caray centered on his complete inability to pronounce Latino names. He didn't even seem to try to get them right.

2005-04-07 20:19:20
115.   Steve
Kent makes Izturis look good again. :)
2005-04-07 20:19:24
116.   Bob Timmermann
Top home run seasons by Dodger switch hitters:

Reggie Smith 32, 1977
Reggie Smith 29, 1978
Eddie Murray 26, 1990
Todd Hundley 24, 1999
Todd Hundley 24, 2000
Jim Lefebvre 24, 1966
Eddie Murray 20, 1989

Below that, you start getting some oddball years from Wes Parker.

But all those guys line up so nicely in columns!

2005-04-07 20:19:54
117.   Gold Star for Robot Boy
Harry Caray called Rafael Palmeiro "RAY-fel Palermo."
2005-04-07 20:21:08
118.   Bob Timmermann
David Ross gets to make his Pirate debut tonight.
In San Diego.
Against Jake Peavy.
He's 0 for 2 with a K and a GIDP. Can't they let him against somebody worse than Peavy?
2005-04-07 20:22:15
119.   Jim Hitchcock
Peedro Guerrero?
2005-04-07 20:25:51
120.   Sam DC
Rough night for Drew so far -- 3 first-pitch outs, the last one apparently back to the pitcher.
2005-04-07 20:29:21
121.   Gold Star for Robot Boy
Good hustle there on the slide, Marquis.
Yeesh.
2005-04-07 20:29:30
122.   Sam NYC
Felipe Alou looks more and more like E.T. every day.
2005-04-07 20:31:59
123.   Jim Hitchcock
So, stop me if you've heard this one. Can anybody name the fourth Alou brother?
2005-04-07 20:32:12
124.   Ben P
I haven't called to order the MLB package yet but I just discovered that for some reason I'm getting the Dodger game and the Angel game tonight anyway. Maybe it's a free preview, or maybe it's a sign from God.

I hope my cable company doesn't read this blog.

2005-04-07 20:33:35
125.   Sam NYC
MLB Extra Innings is free the first week of the season and the week after the all-star game.
2005-04-07 20:34:13
126.   Gold Star for Robot Boy
Can anybody name the fourth Alou brother?
Zeppo. Or was it Gummo?
2005-04-07 20:36:06
127.   Jim Hitchcock
Boog Powell. Had to change hislast name, for obvious reasons.
2005-04-07 20:38:39
128.   Jerry
When was the last time a Dodger catcher had an RBI in 3 consecutive games?
2005-04-07 20:38:49
129.   Marty
As much as I was pulling for the guy, David Ross would NOT have done that
2005-04-07 20:39:43
130.   ryu
1) Hong Kong

2) 3.80

3) 8-7 Dodgers

4) No.

2005-04-07 20:40:41
131.   Sam NYC
Up and in. Geez. Vin even mentions it.
2005-04-07 20:40:58
132.   Steve
Maybe if I give up on him...
2005-04-07 20:41:24
133.   GoBears
As much as I love the guy, Vinnie isn't very good at Spanish names either. He butchered Encarnacion until the trade, and was murder on Erubiel (YooREEbiel) Durazo while the latter was a DBack. It's odd, given how well-spoken and literate Vin is.

But nothing compared to what Ross Porter would do to Ishii. Ouch.

2005-04-07 20:41:38
134.   Sam NYC
I'm serious, it's like watching a car wreck.
2005-04-07 20:42:23
135.   Jim Hitchcock
Damn, I love pitchers who can hit!
2005-04-07 20:43:51
136.   Jerry
Was there any Wallach in that third-strike swing by Choi?
2005-04-07 20:44:03
137.   Sushirabbit
1) Nashville, Tennessee
2) 3.88 (more wins than losses)
3) 5-3. Dodgers.
4) No. But I saw the Italian Embalmbed Franco tonight. (Hudson is on my fantasy team)
Tonight's prediction: it is the 4th. I'm predicting Valentin gets another homer. And another SF OFer gets injured. The balls also drop out there cause of the cold and humidity, right?
2005-04-07 20:44:03
138.   Steve
OK, I'm officially giving up on him. Time for a 26 game hitting streak.
2005-04-07 20:44:44
139.   Ben P
Not a good sign that Weaver looks more comfortable at the plate than Choi does. Vin pointed out his weakness for high fastballs, and Choi also seems to have a strange late uppercut in his swing. Hopefully it's just about confidence at this point. One nice home run could snap him out of it. Right? Please? Anyone?
2005-04-07 20:45:36
140.   Sushirabbit
I will probably see the 51s in may. I will be going to a car show (father-in-law has 67 mg-gtb) the first two games, but will catch the rest.
2005-04-07 20:46:51
141.   alex 7
next time weaver pitches, tracy will flip flop him and choi in the lineup.
2005-04-07 20:50:34
142.   joekings
1. CA
2. 4.2
3. 6-4 (Dodgers win)
4. No

I really want to like Drew, but it's not a good sign when the 3rd game starting pitcher has more hits and RBI's than you.

2005-04-07 20:50:37
143.   Smirk
In the Angels game...

John Lackey just got pulled after a disastorous 5th inning.

Innings 1-4: Pitches:49, Hits:0, Runs:0
Inning 5: Pitches:48, Hits:3, Runs:3, WP:2

Ouch.

2005-04-07 20:52:25
144.   Flax
1) Nashville, TN, too, Sushirabbit
2) 4.10
3) 4-2 Dodgers
4) Absolutely not.
2005-04-07 20:52:28
145.   Sushirabbit
Giants fans hit visitors with pies? Geez!
and the crappy Keiper and Kruko (not Kruc) didn't even say thanks to the Dodgr Broadcast crew when they shared the feed.
2005-04-07 20:52:42
146.   Jerry
Drew's performance is the least of our worries; his health is the only thing that concerns me.

But hey, it looks like we're getting our third solid performance by a starter. Not a bad way to start the season.

2005-04-07 20:53:49
147.   KAYVMON
Was Vin implying that Choi's bounce throw was on purpose?
2005-04-07 20:54:02
148.   Suffering Bruin
1. CA
2. 3.90
3. 9-3 Dodgers win
4. Lord no.

I have been as ardent a defender of Hee-Seop Choi as there is on this blog. I have come up with an at times cute, at times tedious regular feature--"fact of Choi"--to preface my posts. So let me say this....

Stop Swinging At Balls Around Your Eyes!!

please...

2005-04-07 20:54:38
149.   Sam NYC
I suppose that Choi's OBP is officially .143, but it's still .000 in my mind.

Question: Will Choi earn his way on base before the home-opener?

2005-04-07 20:55:27
150.   Sam NYC
Whoops, .167 -- but still .000
Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2005-04-07 20:59:40
151.   A E LUTHER
Currently in state of California, USA

Weaver's ERA for 2005:

3.75

so far:

0.00

2005-04-07 20:59:49
152.   joekings
Drew just got robbed.
2005-04-07 21:00:24
153.   Steve
MLB has got to step in, I'm telling you. Umpiring is very bad all around. That one is definitely going to the league office.
2005-04-07 21:02:16
154.   Sam DC
robbed like he beat the throw robbed?
2005-04-07 21:04:12
155.   GoBears
Robbed like Ball 4 was inexplicably called a foul tip. Missed the bat by 3 feet!
2005-04-07 21:04:34
156.   Sam NYC
Sam,

No, the 3-2 pitch went to the backstop and was obviously a ball but it was called a foul tip. Replay showed he never touched it. Then he grounds out on the next pitch.

2005-04-07 21:05:18
157.   Jim Hitchcock
No, Sam...The ump called a foul tip on ball four, but the ball actually deflected off the umps shinguard.
2005-04-07 21:06:25
158.   A E LUTHER
Looking good and Drew not hitting a lick. Drew's April #'s in 2004:

16 games
17/61 .279
3 Hrs
11 RBI's

He got better as the season progressed.

2005-04-07 21:07:33
159.   Jerry
Loving Weaver's performance, but let's recognize that a Giants lineup without Alou and Bonds is almost as bad as that of the 2004 D-Backs.
2005-04-07 21:08:08
160.   Jerry
Kent makes another great defensive play. Alex who?
2005-04-07 21:08:17
161.   Sam NYC
Weaver is cruising! 88 pitches through 7! And 15 of them came against Snow.
2005-04-07 21:08:19
162.   Langhorne
1) California
2) 3.98
3) 10-4 Dodgers
4) Major League baseball? Really?

LADs look pretty good tonight. Timely hitting, great pitching. I notice that SBC has that awful rubber track. I was so glad the Dodgers got rid of that. Anyone know how many parks are using them?

2005-04-07 21:08:21
163.   Steve
Alex Cora would have thrown that away.
2005-04-07 21:08:54
164.   Sam DC
Thx all.
2005-04-07 21:10:06
165.   Mark
The Dodgers groundskeepers would have swept that dirt up faster.
2005-04-07 21:11:03
166.   Sushirabbit
Scully jinxed Matheny!!

about the 2x2x2 stuff from earlier... I learned all that from watching Lasorda. I don't think that is only a "moneyball" approach. Yee-Haw! 3-0

2005-04-07 21:11:46
167.   Sam NYC
I envy you guys on west coast right now. It's 12:15AM here. I've got to be up for work in 6 hours.
2005-04-07 21:11:46
168.   popup
1. Washington State (Tacoma)
2. 4.25
3. 6-3
4. Yes

I am listening to the game on XM radio. They are carrying the Giants radio feed. I really like Dave Fleming, the Giants play-by-play broadcaster. Wish he was calling the games for the Dodgers. Fleming, Ross Porter and Vin would be a solid radio crew for the Dodgers

2005-04-07 21:12:50
169.   Mark
So when does Felipe put Herges in at 2B?
2005-04-07 21:14:47
170.   Sushirabbit
which pitcher will end up with the most RBIs?
2005-04-07 21:15:14
171.   GoBears
I'm on the West Coast, and I'm a night-owl. It's very unlikely that I'll even be in bed yet in 6 hours. I'll let you know if you miss anything, Sam NYC.
2005-04-07 21:16:57
172.   GoBears
Choi gets a PA vs. a lefty. I'm shocked Tracy didn't pull him.
2005-04-07 21:17:29
173.   Sam NYC
No, I'm staying up, darn it! I only get one free week of Extra Innings!
2005-04-07 21:18:55
174.   Mark
Well, at least Choi hit the ball...
2005-04-07 21:19:55
175.   Jerry
Has a manager ever brought in a reliever to face a pitcher? I don't think I've ever seen it.
2005-04-07 21:20:22
176.   bokonon42
It was a productive out, too.
2005-04-07 21:21:24
177.   Sam NYC
You have to love Vin. Anytime a LAD struggles, he tells you something nice about them personally.
2005-04-07 21:21:38
178.   GoBears
Weaver is pitching a gem, but you gotta admit - without Bonds and Alou, this is probably the weakest lineup in the league.
2005-04-07 21:22:04
179.   Mark
Hmm, dunno about Weaver for the complete game...
2005-04-07 21:23:20
180.   Shlomo
1. Israel
2. 3.45
3. 6-5 Dodgers
4. Nothing surprises me with that guy.
2005-04-07 21:26:41
181.   Sam NYC
Nice pickup by CHoi. He finds a way to contribute I guess
2005-04-07 21:26:43
182.   Steve
#176 LOL
2005-04-07 21:28:02
183.   Bob Timmermann
Sometimes a reliever will be brought in with the pitcher coming up to force the hand of the opposing manager.

Alou might have wanted Tracy to pull Weaver.

2005-04-07 21:28:05
184.   brendan glynn
1) "That's how we do it in the O.C. Bitch" (Off Topic slightly but I nominate this as Greatest worst television line ever)

2) 3.87 ERA

3) 12-11 but I refuse to say who wins

4) Yes, but I would have to look it up to see which team. Not even sure which league.

2005-04-07 21:35:27
185.   Jim Hitchcock
It's time, Drew.
2005-04-07 21:36:25
186.   A E LUTHER
Dessens may just pitch well against his former team.
2005-04-07 21:36:46
187.   mountainmover
1. Naptown

2. 3.66

3. 4-3

4. Yeah!

2005-04-07 21:37:18
188.   Rainman
What an outing by Weaver. Man, that was solid.

On the other side of things, the Giants should be the team scratching their heads tonight... They are woefully punchless without Bonds and Alou, and it'll only get worse with the oldest regular eight in baseball history.

2005-04-07 21:38:46
189.   Mark
Officer Krupke comes through again!
2005-04-07 21:39:03
190.   Jerry
The Giants are thinking of sending Lowry back down so they can qualify for Medicare.
2005-04-07 21:39:26
191.   joekings
Kent is officially my new favorite player.
2005-04-07 21:39:56
192.   Rainman
Man, is Kent zoned in... keep booing him, Bay fans...
2005-04-07 21:40:44
193.   Bob Timmermann
7 walks and an HBP for the Dodgers tonight.
2005-04-07 21:40:45
194.   Steve
Kent is on a mission. It's a strange, bizarre mission, proving that one is more valuable than Alex Cora. It's a mission one could virtually not fail. And yet, there you have it. Anything for inspiration.
2005-04-07 21:41:03
195.   Bob Timmermann
Make that 7 walks and 2 HBPs tonight.
2005-04-07 21:41:20
196.   alex 7
oregon
3.98
6-5 az unless dessens is pulled before 5 inn.
yes, apparently he's a pinch hitter extraordinaire

assuming LA pulls this out, it'll be nice having them go 2-1 with Drew at 0 for 12. Nice balance in the lineup.

2005-04-07 21:42:20
197.   Paul B
1) Alabama (Montgomery)
2) 3.8
3) 6-2 Good guys
4) I lost track of Offie a couple years ago. I remember that rush of excitement following his 1st major league AB homerun. That was a long time ago...

Hey Rainman, whereabout in Alabama are you?

2005-04-07 21:42:25
198.   Jerry
The story tonight in the Bay Area is that the A's bullpen appears to be as good as the Giants' is bad.
2005-04-07 21:43:45
199.   Bob Timmermann
8 walks and 2 HBPs
2005-04-07 21:44:27
200.   hawaiidodgersfan
# 53. by Linkmeister
There's two Hawai'i Dodger fans in here? hawaiidodgersfan, you're not Gene Kaneshiro's grandson or nephew or somethin', are ya? ;)

(Kaneshiro used to own/run Columbia Inn in Honolulu, a restaurant decorated almost solely in Dodger memorabilia, with great food).

No, Linkmeister not related but our family used to eat there when we were much younger. I remember all the Dodger memorabilia they used to display and I wondered what all the fuss was about. We didn't have much baseball shown here growing up so I became a Dodger fan when we lived in LA back in '85-'89. They only showed baseball in the summer so I quickly became a Dodger fan. Those years were good especially that 1988 year!

Oh, by the way, can I change my answer about Weaver's ERA to 1.90?

Gonna sleep well tonight! Pleasant dreams everyone!

Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2005-04-07 21:44:52
201.   Sam NYC
Barring a DP, Choi gets to hit again. I have become obsessed.
2005-04-07 21:45:26
202.   alex 7
just wanna see choi hit again
2005-04-07 21:45:50
203.   Mark
Valentin gets the line of the night: 0 1 0 2 4 0 0. Absurd.
2005-04-07 21:46:21
204.   Bob Timmermann
Jason Phillips is probably the best GIDP candidate of all the Dodgers.
2005-04-07 21:47:56
205.   alex 7
here we go choi
2005-04-07 21:47:58
206.   Bob Timmermann
Pads and Bucs 0-0 in the 10th.
2005-04-07 21:47:59
207.   Sam NYC
C'mon Choi Boy! Knock it out!
2005-04-07 21:50:43
208.   alex 7
hee seop hat trick choi
2005-04-07 21:51:14
209.   Sam NYC
I remember in grade school, there was a mentally challenged kid and he would play basketball with us in PhysEd. At first, all the guys would laugh at him. But after a while, all the guys would be rooting for him. They felt sorry for him. It was always a wierd turn to watch. Now I'm doing the same thing with Choi. It's not funny anymore. But it's not a good sign when your first baseman reminds you of a mentally challenged child.
2005-04-07 21:51:58
210.   joekings
Weaver weaved a web tonight!
2005-04-07 21:52:20
211.   Mark
Plaschke just had a heart attack.
2005-04-07 21:52:42
212.   T Money
Who else saw that Valentin error coming? Show of hands? Everyone? Okay, me too.
2005-04-07 21:52:45
213.   Sam NYC
Valetin now on pace for 162 errors this year.
2005-04-07 21:53:26
214.   Bob Timmermann
See Valentin didn't get a hit and he made an error!

He's useless!

2005-04-07 21:53:33
215.   corey
Valentin is killing me. I don't know what to do. He's been a pleasant surprise offensively for sure, but come on!
2005-04-07 21:53:52
216.   Smirk
Someone or something has gotten into Choi's head. He looks totally confused.
2005-04-07 21:54:48
217.   alex 7
not watching it, legit error? Nakamura's chomping down harder on his food tonight while watching this.
2005-04-07 21:55:24
218.   Smirk
Maybe Valentin thinks errors equal runs in the National league.
2005-04-07 21:55:27
219.   Jerry
I count 2.5 sidearmers on the Dodgers' staff--Wunsch, Scholl, and Weaver (from time to time).
2005-04-07 21:55:50
220.   Mark
"Legit" as in "trying too hard to make up for previous errors" causing a terrible, rushed throw.
2005-04-07 21:56:08
221.   Bob Timmermann
Valentin threw the ball down the RF line, so I would consider it a legitimate error.
2005-04-07 21:56:48
222.   alex 7
now, assuming valentin isn't outside the law of averages, aren't we safe to assume he'll go on a non-error rampage for the next 3 weeks?
2005-04-07 21:57:39
223.   Mark
Anyone else listening to the guy in the background of Vin's mike yell at the ump on every single pitch? He's hilarious! Giant swings and fouls the ball off, the guy yells at the ump, trying to suggest that he perhaps call it a ball.
2005-04-07 21:57:47
224.   joekings
I love the fans screaming in the background, not sure if they are Dodger or Giant fans though.
2005-04-07 21:58:12
225.   Bob Timmermann
0-0 in San Diego, heading to the 11th.
2005-04-07 21:58:26
226.   Jerry
Well I'm liking Valentin's bat so far. Maybe he plays some first base if he keeps committing these errors.
2005-04-07 21:59:18
227.   Bob Timmermann
I used to sit next to a guy at UCLA football games who would yell "Stick it, ref!" after every penalty that was called against UCLA.

Even things like delay of game or offsides which anybody could see.

I hated that man.

2005-04-07 21:59:58
228.   alex 7
the white sox have 6 guys in the pen better than Wunsch? His career numbers are great.
2005-04-07 22:00:20
229.   Im So Blue
Is it still a Wild Pitch if no one advances?
2005-04-07 22:01:35
230.   GoBears
Nope.
2005-04-07 22:01:36
231.   alex 7
good thought (226) Jerry.
2005-04-07 22:02:37
232.   Mark
How soon until they move the Southern California Sports Report from Staples Center to Chavez?
2005-04-07 22:02:39
233.   Bob Timmermann
The White Sox used their whole pen today.
Cotts, Politte, Marte, Hermanson, Takatsu (Closer), and Vizcaino.

Takatsu gave up 3 homers in the 9th to blow the save and then Vizcaino gave up 6 in the 11th.

2005-04-07 22:03:28
234.   alex 7
soriano's gonna get a chance to beat the angels again.
2005-04-07 22:03:51
235.   Neil
On pace to win 120 with Drew batting .000. Weaver for Cy Young.

Anyone else notice Kent grinning from ear to ear all the way back to the dugout?

2005-04-07 22:06:38
236.   Rainman
Paul B (#197),
I'm in Tuscaloosa... just up the road from ya. Small world, huh.

Good win, fellas. Keep in mind that Valentin hasn't played third base in years, and even then didn't play much. Let's give him the benefit of the doubt as he transitions to the corner - might take him a few weeks to get comfortable. He's not a complete stiff with the glove - he's played shortstop in the majors for a decade or so, so he must be able to field a little.

2005-04-07 22:07:33
237.   joekings
I'll admit I had reservations about the Kent signing, but I'm liking what I'm seeing. Funny how the pain from opening day has suddenly left me.
2005-04-07 22:08:19
238.   bokonon42
Choi isn't the retarded kid, he's the fat kid who nearly never misses a freethrow. He's got an ugly swing. A really, really ugly swing. But it doesn't make sense to assume that his entire career till he shipped out to L.A. was a complete fluke. Right? He must be able to hit.
2005-04-07 22:08:26
239.   alex 7
Kent must be one of those hard a$$ guys who rubs some laid back players the wrong way. Can't imagine what the negativity from former teammates was about. Seems like a throw back player to me.
2005-04-07 22:09:08
240.   Langhorne
That's okay. Jose was on base four times with two RBIs, no at bats and an error. I live for this! Chick Hearn put games in the fridge but you know the game is over when Vin starts talking about the seagulls.
Kent has got to be the most hated player in Frisco. It's great to see him go to town on the Giants. Two out of three in SBC. A good start.
2005-04-07 22:09:12
241.   Jim Hitchcock
Wouldn't want to be a Giants fan right now...
2005-04-07 22:11:23
242.   alex 7
well bokonon, there is the possibility that his early success was similar to some other rookie hitters' before pitchers figure them out and adjust. Certainly hope that's not the case, but with as few ABs as he had with the Cubs and Marlins, it's a possibility.

Wallach at least sees the dip and upper cut in Choi's swing and his "top down" suggestions make sense now.

2005-04-07 22:12:24
243.   alex 7
angels / rangers game going down to the wire.
2005-04-07 22:13:27
244.   Bob Timmermann
I have a feeling that Olmedo Saenz will be starting tomorrow tonight at first base.
2005-04-07 22:14:21
245.   Jerry
I think Saenz showed last night that he deserves to start versus lefties.
2005-04-07 22:15:20
246.   Eric L
Is Plaschke going to write that the Angels bullpen is collapsing because of the lack of veteran presence when they let go of Percival?

I apologize for the sarcasm being off the charts in my post...

2005-04-07 22:21:55
247.   Langhorne
First, I think Valentine's error tonight is typical of someone who hasn't played third base much. He had a lot more time for that play than he thought. He'll get used to the corner. Choi is a much bigger problem. I would really like him to do well but would somebody please tell me why they think he was ever a good offensive player. I don't see it. In 600 career at bats he has an average hovering around .230, more strike outs than hits, more strike outs than walks. I don't understand where anyone sees potential in him.
2005-04-07 22:21:55
248.   Bob Timmermann
Daryle Ward pinch hit tonight for David Ross. It was a reunion of poor Dodgers hitters.
2005-04-07 22:22:24
249.   al bundy
I'm in London, UK. Couldn't sleep, remembered Dodgers v Giants so got out of bed at 4 am and watched the game on my laptop. Great to hear Vinny! Now it's after 6 am and I want to go back to bed.

Rainman - Can you send me some ribs from Dreamland? Also, if you want a quick road trip, drive on over to Columbus, MS and get some of the world's greatest catfish from Reuben's. On the way back to Tuscaloosa if you time it right you can hit the blue light at the Krispy Kreme. :)

I'm a little surprised Jose Offerman isn't on the Giants roster. He would seem to fit perfectly with their player profile.

2005-04-07 22:22:54
250.   alex 7
finley with the chance to be the hero.
Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2005-04-07 22:24:04
251.   Bob Timmermann
THE SQUEEZE!

is fouled off and then Finley singles for the win.

2005-04-07 22:24:44
252.   alex 7
and he is.
2005-04-07 22:25:22
253.   bokonon42
Choi had 1567 Minor League ABs. He hit .285, OBP .387 SLG .532
2005-04-07 22:25:34
254.   alex 7
let's go pittsburgh.
2005-04-07 22:25:53
255.   Steve
Plaschke just got an excuse not to have to write about the Dodgers at all. Simers, Brown, and Plaschke will all have to fight over who gets to write the latest mash note to Steve Finley and the Angels.

Pro-Choi, anti-platoon Steve is in favor of starting Saenz against Estes.

2005-04-07 22:28:09
256.   al bundy
Who's the Rex guy on the Angels broadcast? He sounds like the Bill Walton of baseball announcers. "Halo there!" Oh, brother.
2005-04-07 22:28:14
257.   Eric L
I'll admit that Choi has looked terrible in his 2 games thus far..

Why people see potential in Choi...

In his 600 career ABs (not counting '05), he has 25 HR and 107 walks. Yes, he does have 182 Ks. He does K alot. It's part of the package.

Adam Dunn also Ks quite a bit. Though I am not comparing Dunn to Choi, because Dunn has alot more power, the plate discipline is similar.

2005-04-07 22:29:18
258.   Jerry
Petco Park: Where runs go to die.
2005-04-07 22:29:37
259.   Eric L
The Rex guy on the Angels broadcast is Rex Hudler.. his job is to brown-nose the Angels players as much as possible.
2005-04-07 22:42:39
260.   FirstMohican
Brown-nose Angels players by hyping decent plays, and making excuses for terrible ones. He also raises his eyebrows like a fidgety idiot. Terrible human being. C- at life.
2005-04-07 22:43:36
261.   Eric L
Why is he a terrible human being.. aside from the weed thing?
2005-04-07 22:47:18
262.   bokonon42
Anyway, we watched Adrian Beltre not hit for two and half years. His swing wasn't as ugly as Choi's; is that the only criteria Choi bashers are using?
2005-04-07 22:48:06
263.   bokonon42
Criterion, rather.
2005-04-07 22:49:45
264.   joekings
Opposing team leads off the inning with a hit. Rex's comment. He's just setting up the double play. Brilliant.

Last year they ran a hair restoration commercial with him in it in between innings of home games on the scoreboard. After the commercial he would stand up in his booth and comb his hair. Even Angels' fans I know can't stand the guy.

2005-04-07 22:50:59
265.   sofa king blue
1. Ca (Santa Barbara)

2. 2.25 (NL Cy Young actually crossed my mind tonight)

3. 7-6 (Dodgers win!)

4. No

2005-04-07 22:55:00
266.   sofa king blue
'Dres win 1-0 on a walk in the bottom of the 12th
2005-04-07 23:02:12
267.   Eric Enders
"not watching it, legit error? Nakamura's chomping down harder on his food tonight while watching this."
------------

If he is, it's bad hospital food. Nakamura injured his ribs (I believe) and is currently on LV's injured list.

And on another topic, IMO the weed is actually a point in Hudler's favor, in that it provides a theoretical excuse for the unlistenability (?) of his Angel broadcasts.

2005-04-07 23:05:19
268.   Eric L
Does anyone remember when the Angels won the ALCS and Hudler was the field reporter guy for Fox?

When the game was over, he didn't do much reporting.

2005-04-07 23:14:47
269.   Eric Enders
"he didn't do much reporting."
-----------

Which means he has something in common with every other baseball field reporter on TV...

2005-04-07 23:28:02
270.   Alex Ciepley
1. Evansville, IN. See #22. I can't believe it, but Jon, you now have two commenters from Evansville, IN. Of course, I'm now in NYC, but whichever.

2. 2.19 My fantasy team is counting on it.

3. 5-3

4. Nope.

2005-04-07 23:31:49
271.   FishBoy
1. Queensland, Australia

2. 4.15

3. 6-4, Dodgers

4. No - is he still alive?

2005-04-07 23:33:07
272.   jasonungar05
Newport Beach California
3.68
7-5 (LA)
yes, and my fantasy team is counting on the manager of Offerman's real team to play my damn 2b-man. I need to fill 2b/ss and not sure how long I can stare at Barmes or cantu on the wire.

night all.

2005-04-07 23:45:25
273.   Jason 73
1. Abbotsford, British Columbia
2.4.27
3.5-1 Dodgers
4.I would have thought he was either playing for the Lancaster Jethawks or some team like San Pedro de marquis in Dom Rep.
I remember going to a Jethawks game a few years back, (10) and seeing Tito Landrum playing way long after I thought he would..I remember Jose Offerman hitting an HR in his forst game too. The sky was the limit.
2005-04-07 23:47:53
274.   Vishal
1)CA. southerly.

2) man, i was gonna say 3.87 or 3.88, but it seems like 5 other people already said that. so what i'm gonna do is pretend like it's The Price Is Right, and bid 3.00, and hope everyone else overbid, and that it's in the low 3's. tell me there's a door prize jon. :)

4) i knew he was on the twins in 2004, so i figured he was still there. didn't know he became a phillie, though.

2005-04-08 00:20:27
275.   JD in Milan
I know I'm a bit late, but ...

1- Milan, Italy
2- 3.67 (not including the scoreless innings he threw last night)
3- LAD 12 - 6 (hey if San Diego can score all those runs why can't we)
4- figured he was

2005-04-08 00:23:20
276.   In Enemy Country
Good opening to the season. DePodesta has put together an extremely balanced lineup and the pitching looks fantastic. Kent especially has vindicated his acquisition. I find all the hand wringing over the loss of Alex Cora amusing, name me a GM that would take Cora over Kent and you'll name a GM that's out of a job.
2005-04-08 01:58:51
277.   fanerman91
1) CA (Berkeley for school, Whittier at home)
2) 3.72
3) 10-5 Dodgers, with Choi hitting his first regular season home run
4) Jose Offerman is still alive?

#194, I literally laughed out loud reading that.

#276, How about Steve Philips?

2005-04-08 02:02:08
278.   fanerman91
And on Choi batting 8th...

Having Choi bat 8th sends the message "We think he's the worst hitter on the team." If Tracy wants to help his confidence and help him loosen up, perhaps he should bat him 7th all the time without question and have Philips bat 8th.

2005-04-08 02:13:22
279.   Albert in Hong Kong
1. Hong Kong
2. 3.99, this latest game is what i am leaning towards
3. 7-4 brazoban gets the save and redeems himself!
4. nope

choi has 5 Ks so far... i seriously think he should rethink his approach

2005-04-08 02:36:40
280.   guspaul
1. London, UK.
2. 3.85. But lets hope he doesn't blow his arm out throwing so many pitches so early.
3. 6-5 Dodgers. All 5 D'backs runs given up be Dessens in the first 3 innnings. All 6 scored by the Dodgers in the last 3.
4. I did. But I have no idea what position he plays these days.
2005-04-08 04:06:23
281.   Limey
1. Liverpool, UK
2. 4
3. 8-6 Dodgers
4. Yes
2005-04-08 05:03:59
282.   Karl
1. Philadelphia, PA
2. 4.44
3. 11-6
4. Yes, here in Philadephia. Sigh.

I feel compelled to say that I don't care where Choi bats in the order as long as gets the AB's. I want to find out if he's any good and the only real way to tell is to see what he does when he plays.

Karl B.

2005-04-08 05:08:27
283.   Dr Love
1. Princeton, NJ
2. 4.12
3. 8-5
4. Yes, further proving that it wasn't Larry Bowa's fault.
2005-04-08 05:44:52
284.   blue horseshoe
1. New York, NY
2. 3.85
3. 7-4 (Dodgers)
4. No idea...perhaps thats why the nats are 2-1

I'm fired up about this 2-1 start. Also- McCourt & Lasorda were in NYC Weds night...a work associate (Boston native) saw them in a steakhouse in midtown, approached McCourt & started the Boston High School name game (they are about the same age). McCourt was very personable with the guy, ultimately extending him an invite to sit with him next time he's in LA.
Being a huge Sox fan, he also made some suggestive comments about D Lowe's love of the nightlife, to which Lasorda responed his only concern being D. Lowe getting the ball across to plate!

That interaction moved my opinion of McCourt up 2 notches, and I hadn't had him pegged below average to start. Just wish I was there!

2005-04-08 06:32:31
285.   Denezin
Hey neighbor Sam (DC). I'm near the Supreme Court but can be found many an evening at the Pourhouse (Penn Ave SE bet 3rd and 4th) watching Dodger games on the big screen...

Barracks Row is really up and coming these days.

Surprising number of LAD fans in the DC area, I guess the region attracts all types.

2005-04-08 06:43:18
286.   jspaceman
1. Spencerport, NY ... right on the Erie Canal.
2. 3.25.
3. 7-3 Dodgers.
4. He might as well be a Giant.
2005-04-08 07:19:00
287.   Sam DC
Denezin -- I'm a Tune Inn guy, so I expect we were parked on barstools in some pretty close proximity last fall.

Anyhow, as the season picks up, let's do a game -- Maybe an East Coast version of the El Cholo thing, sadly sans those enchilads with the fried egg on top. This thread may be dead for these purposes, but would any regional (MD, PA, NY?? whatever) folks come down for a tv game?

(Maybe this is also the appropriate place to finally brag that I ended up with Diamond Box tix to the Aug 3 Dodgers-Nats game -- 7 rows behind home plate. I've been holding it in for a while.)

2005-04-08 07:42:33
288.   brandesh
1. Nashville, TN
2. 3.79
3. 9-8 LA
4. Well, I knew he was still worth making fun of anyway.
2005-04-08 07:47:58
289.   Vishal
i don't know how i left out #3... but we're gonna win 10-7
2005-04-08 07:50:35
290.   DodgerBlueBruce
1. Oxford, OH (approx. 1 hour from Cinci., yes that's me in the Blue cap in a sea of Reds.
2. 3.25
3. 7-5 Los Angeles Dodgers of Los Angeles
4. No, didn't care
2005-04-08 07:51:35
291.   DXMachina
1. Rhode Island
2. 3.99
3. 10-7 LA
4. Huh. How did the Giants miss him?

Nice jobs by Weaver and kent last night.

2005-04-08 08:09:00
292.   Howard Fox
1. CA
2. 3.30
3. 8-6 LA
4. yes, he is like the guy in Green Mile
2005-04-08 08:11:29
293.   gcrl
1. mn
2. 3.76
3. 7-2 la
4. yes
2005-04-08 08:14:39
294.   zappala
1. Provo, UT
2. 3.92
3. 9-6 Dodgers
4. No, but I did know the Pirates center fielder was Tike Redman.
2005-04-08 08:36:25
295.   Felton
1. New Orleans
2. 3.75
3. 8-5 Dodgers - Buddy Carlyle with the save
4. I did not know that about Jose. I remember his first ML home run - I think his first at-bat. Similar to the Saints, whose first play was a kickoff return for a touchdown and all downhill from there. Actually, I think Jose could actually pull a Rickey Henderson and play into his mid-forties.
2005-04-08 08:48:13
296.   Steve
Look Jerry, another Utah guy!
2005-04-08 09:01:00
297.   al bundy
Sam in DC - I used to hang out at the Tune Inn (great place) but the last time I lived in DC was in the 20th century (early 90s). As memory recollects though, the best burger in DC was at 5 Guys in Arlington. I've wondered if that little whole in the wall is still there (although I suppose if I were that curious I could do a search). Been there?

I'm predicting a sweep of the Dbacks.

2005-04-08 09:01:41
298.   Palatine
1. Gardena, CA. (L.A.)
2. Weaver's ERA: 4.02
3. Friday's Game Score: Dodgers 6, D-Backs 8.
4. No.

All I'll say is that if Valentin can continue to produce runs without official at-bats, he can make all the late inning throwing errors he wants. Maybe.

I lied. I'm saying more. Kent is looking good. I hope he wasn't just up for the Giants series and that he continues as he is. I think he will. Drew's adjustment time to a new team is over. He needs to "do" something.

2005-04-08 09:14:34
299.   dagwich
1. Durham, NC (originally from LA)
2. This might be the dudester's career year: I say around 3.50
3. Dodgers win 8-7 tonight (Hey, I just won the office NCAA pool so I feel good about my picks)
4. I had no idea.
2005-04-08 09:20:45
300.   Jonny6
Coming in late, but felt the need to get my picks down on "paper".

#1. CA (SLO)
#2. 3.72
#3. Dodgers 7, DBacks 5 (but Green greets his old team with a HR into the pool)
#4. A resounding no

Show/Hide Comments 301-350
2005-04-08 09:39:52
301.   Berkeley Doug
1. CA (Berkeley) - Go Bears! Go Dodgers!
2. 3.99
3. LA 10 AZ 7 (not much faith in Dessens ...)
4. With the quality of today's major leaguers, not surprised
2005-04-08 09:49:32
302.   mcrawford
I know it's late. But I wanna play too...

1. CA (San Francisco)
2. 4 (to one significant digit)
3. 6-4 LA wins
4. Did not know that.

2005-04-08 09:49:44
303.   LowlyDodgerFan
1. Ontario, CA
2. 3.65
3. LA 9, AZ 4.
4. No.

So far, I've been wrong. Yay! Dodgers win.

Though, Valentin is on pace to make 162 errors. 3 errors in 3 games? And our right fielder has yet to get a hit.

2005-04-08 09:50:22
304.   Sam DC
Al -- one thing I can promise you is that the Tune Inn has not changed (except for the giant "RED SOX WORLD CHAMPS" sharpie'd above the loo). I've not made it to 5 Guys, but it's still there and still reputed to be the best.
2005-04-08 09:52:31
305.   Jim Hitchcock
Doug, did you make it to the game the other night?

Hello to all the international fans...guess we should have known about the Dodgers widespread appeal. Good idea, Jon.

2005-04-08 10:01:08
306.   In Enemy Country
fanerman91
I know, Steve Philips is driving me crazy. Everytime he's on TV he bashes the Dodgers, even when he's doing AL games. I think he's got a little GM envy because a short glasses wearing nerd from Harvard has more sac than he did. This is the same guy who gave a long term contract to Cliff Floyd. Nuff said.
2005-04-08 10:12:37
307.   aloofman
1) San Bernardino, CA

2) Predicted 2005 ERA for Jeff Weaver: 3.84

3) Predicted final score for Friday's game, Dodgers at Arizona: Dodgers 4, D'backs 3.

4) Did you know Jose Offerman was on a major league team's 2005 Opening Day roster? Didn't know, but I'm not surprised. Any has-been can get a back-up role these days.

The three things that Rex Hudler has going for him are that he's crazy, he's enthusiastic, and he's genuine. Other than that he's useless. I think he's much more suited to talkradio. I say this partly because he has a zany, dumb personality that's perfect for a medium where you don't have to know what you're talking about, and partly because I never listen to talkradio.

2005-04-08 10:13:47
308.   DodgerJoe
1. Burbank, CA
2. 3.45
3. 8-4 Dodgers
4. Nope

I wanted to give Choi until July 1 to show what he could do. After last night's performance (his bat is so slow), I'm bumping it up to June 1.

Do I hear May 1?

2005-04-08 10:18:38
309.   Berkeley Doug
Jim,

I did go to the game on Wednesday and last night. A few observations:

1. There were some of the weakest "Beat LA" chants I've ever heard at a LA-SF game. Guess it is more difficult when SF is losing 10-1 in the 9th.
2. Quite a few empty seats which I found surprising for the first series of the season and LA in town. Due to Bonds being out perhaps?
3. On my way to my seats there was sign for Giant Dogs (which aren't nearly as good as Dodger Dogs) with the caption "A Swiss tradition". When did Switzerland become known for its hot dogs?????

2005-04-08 10:23:06
310.   Jon Weisman
So we've got 18 states plus D.C. and seven countries:

Alabama
California
Florida
Hawaii
Indiana
Kentucky
Louisiana
Minnesota
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Tennessee
Utah
Washington
Washington, D.C.

*

Australia
Canada
England
Hong Kong
Israel
Italy
Japan

2005-04-08 10:35:28
311.   Stefan
Oh, what the heck

1) Arizona
2) No clue. None.
3) 8-6 D-Backs Posts #44 and 280 OTM.
4) Nope.

2005-04-08 10:48:12
312.   Strike4
Here goes -

1) CA (Thousand Oaks; any town with Sparky Anderson in it must be okay, even tho he was a 1970's adversary)
2) 4.00, even after Jeff's fabulous opener.
3) 8-6 with big nights from Kent, Glaus, Green (don't know winner)
4) No on Offerman. Interesting to see Lenny Harris still out there.

A very pleasant reward of this blog has been finding out that UC Berkeley grads and LA Dodgers fans are not totally incompatible. I felt like a beacon of light on one continuous dark stormy night there. And JW, your Stanford + Dodger combination is another nice paradigm buster. I'm happy to admit to jettison old baggage.

2005-04-08 10:56:32
313.   Denezin
al bundy -

5 Guys is still around and has a number of locations in DC and Arlington, though I've not been there.

sam (dc) -

I've got tickets to all three Dodger games Aug 2-4 at RFK. We'll have to pregame before at Tune Inn or Pourhouse, all others from the region are welcome. A few fellow Dodger fans from diverse areas (Chicago, Raleigh) will be joining me...

2005-04-08 11:04:10
314.   Jon Weisman
When I lived in D.C., from 1992-93 in Woodley Park near the zoo, my favorite places were The Four Ps and the Brickskeller. Are those still good?
2005-04-08 11:25:53
315.   Sam DC
Four Ps is great. Haven't been to the Brick, but it's defintely still popular. Moving to DC when my wife was 8 months pregnant w/number 1 has been interesting -- the first place I've gotten to know only as a Dad. Somehow, we've ended up with the tradition of going to the zoo and then the Four Ps every US Open (golf) Sunday and watching the end of the tourney there.

(Somewhat contradicting my previous comment about only living in DC as a Dad, I lived here briefly (a few months) in fall 1997 and watched game seven of the World Series at the 4 Ps as well. There was a little kid running around the place screaming "Stupid Marlins" at the top of his lungs the whole time. He sort of got his come-uppance by the end, however.)

2005-04-08 11:30:31
316.   fernandomania
Sorry I didn't get a chance to post this on time yesterday, so this will probably never be read but:

1) Kailua, HI (I thought I was the only one from Hawaii here! I thank God for FSN2 every day. Including Fox and ESPN we'll have 136 Dodger broadcasts in 2005.)
2) 3.24
3) 7-5 LA
4) Yes, and he doesn't even look embarrassed about it, so more power to him.

2005-04-08 11:34:12
317.   Laner
A tad late, but
1. Syracuse, NY
2. 3.40
3. 6-4 Dodgers
4. No

Actually had a box score for Weaver's gem in the local paper this morning. Very unusual (the box score, not the gem).

2005-04-08 12:09:30
318.   tomb
Never to late!

1) LA

2)3.3 unoriginal but true.

3)5-4 d-backs. The hope is since my predictions are usually wrong this will guarantee a Dodgers victory.

4)Poor Philly.

Here's to praying for Choi.

2005-04-08 12:27:30
319.   Denezin
Jon -

Did you live in the Stanford house in Woodley Park? I had a few friends who I believe lived there in the summer of 92 or 93 (maybe both).

I'm a 2000 grad myself, so I doubt we would have ever crossed paths unless you made your way near Gate 13 during Stanford home games.

2005-04-08 12:27:49
320.   walbers
1. Oxnard, CA (work in Santa Barbara)

2. 3.07 with 18+ wins

3. 6-4 Dodgers w/Drew getting his first hits

4. No (you're kidding, right?)

2005-04-08 13:09:13
321.   Jon Weisman
Dneezin -
No, I was in grad school in Georgetown, but I was near the Stanford House. I lived at 2727 29th Street. About 1 1/2 blocks from Rock Creek Park. Great location.
2005-04-08 13:28:55
322.   Spageticus
Looks like I'm late to the party. Thought Jon might like one more state.

1. Arkansas (One of the few places that could make me miss the I.E.)
2. 3.18
3. 4-1 Bums
4. Yes, but where is Chad Fonville?

2005-04-08 13:35:41
323.   dbacktom
1-AZ
2-5.00
3-10-7 Dbacks.... I watched Elmer too many times last year.. he Wont get out of the 4th
4-not on my fantasy team, he dont matter
2005-04-08 13:36:08
324.   Mush
I want to play!

1. Boston, Mass (but soon to be down in DC. I need to get tickets for those August Nats-Dodgers games)
2. 4.01
3. 6-3 Dodgers (Glaus with a 3 run shot)
4. No. And I still can't believe the Red Sox ever let him play 1st base. Though the Sox fans were surprisingly forgiving of him.

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