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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

Until We Meet Again
2006-04-24 15:43
by Jon Weisman

James Loney didn't knock too many socks off at the plate while subbing for Nomar Garciaparra, but the following needs to be emphasized: 44 plate appearances, two strikeouts. Coming from a 21-year-old, I can work with that.

Loney did ground into five double plays. Bad luck on those grounders, or not enough smoke?

Garciaparra is starting and batting fifth tonight, with Jose Cruz in left field batting seventh. When Cruz is the No. 7 hitter, the Dodger lineup doesn't look that easy to sneak through. It's just a matter of whether this relatively powerless team (.409 slugging percentage) can string together enough hits and walks in the same inning.

* * *

Tonight's Game

Comments (405)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2006-04-24 15:47:16
1.   ImChuck
First.
2006-04-24 15:51:07
2.   Daniel Zappala
1 This is not slashdot.
2006-04-24 16:04:04
3.   screwballin
I had the same thought about Loney. For a very young guy getting his first taste of the bigs, he rarely looked overmatched. Gotta feel good about that.

He's not ready yet, but with a little more time he could be good.

2006-04-24 16:07:39
4.   Uncle Miltie
I don't like this lineup at all. This should be tonight's lineup
1. Fucal SS- while he's not hitting, he is getting on base at decent rate (or he was before yesterday's 0'fer).
2. Cruz LF
3. Drew RF
4. Nomar 1B
5. Mueller 3B
6. Kent 2B
7. Repko CF- he deserves to be in the lineup over K Loft. The fire has been lit, I don't think it's going to go away with him on the bench
8. Navarro C
2006-04-24 16:11:12
5.   Jon Weisman
Yeah, I don't know why Lofton is starting, except that Repko did have a bad flu recently, I read. So maybe that's it.
2006-04-24 16:13:50
6.   Underbruin
Is it a bad thing that I'd rather see our 5-6-7 hitters coming up than our 1-2-3? (note: Small sample size warning with Nomar)
2006-04-24 16:21:16
7.   Vishal
[4] can KeLories be activated from the bench? :)
2006-04-24 16:25:16
8.   Johnson
4 Does Kent in the 6th spot mean you have completely given up on him because of a slow April? Or is there some other reason?
2006-04-24 16:27:59
9.   blue22
5 - Pettite isn't a "death on lefties" lefty. Probably the cutter he features is easier on lefties, since it cuts away from them.

There probably is a reason why Repko is out, but Pettite makes it an easier decision to make.

2006-04-24 16:28:59
10.   thinkblue0
Jon,

While loney clearly wasn't ready, he showed a lot of promise. I see him as a Sean Casey type player in the future. No real basis for it, just a feeling. I could see like a .315 avg with about 15 HR...it's a great sign that he's putting the ball in play as much as he is. Hopefully that's a sign of the future and I'm sure more of those balls will find the holes in a year or two...

2006-04-24 16:29:00
11.   Jon Weisman
Andy does also effectively curtail the running game, I believe.
2006-04-24 16:31:48
12.   underdog
I also liked the way Loney fields at 1B. I felt secure with him over there. He'll be back.

Meanwhile... I thought Lofton was playing better the last 2-3 days... why is it bad that he's in there? (Not that I'd mind if Repko was in there, either...)

2006-04-24 16:32:19
13.   thinkblue0
12-

Because Pettitte will probably own Lofton tonight.

2006-04-24 16:33:25
14.   Uncle Miltie
11- I was just going to post this. He has a great pickoff move and holds runners. If Lofton keeps playing everyday, maybe he'll wear down (not that I'm saying I want to see him go down with an injury.....)
2006-04-24 16:35:42
15.   thinkblue0
14-

yeah pettitte has one of the best moves in the biz. Although, I'm feeling better about our CF options. Repko and Lofton combined should put up decent enough numbers that we don't suffer in that spot.

I'd still like to see a big time hitter for a corner OF spot...of course, it'd have to be an upgrade over Cruz...

2006-04-24 16:38:32
16.   Bob Timmermann
Cody Ross has made it to RFK for tonight's game for the Reds in DC. He's listed as wearing #16. "Old friend" Dave Ross wears #26.
2006-04-24 16:46:37
17.   Kayaker7
16 Isn't 16 Lo Duca's number while in LA? And then Jim Tracy wore it "in loving memory?"
2006-04-24 16:46:47
18.   Bob Timmermann
Kenny Lofton is 3 for 25 lifetime against Pettitte.

Jose Cruz is 18 for 43 against Pettitte.

Eddie Murray is 7 for 18.

2006-04-24 16:49:58
19.   thinkblue0
18-

does it drive anyone else up the wall that Murray just "sets" his cap on top of his head? I have no idea why this bothers me so much.

2006-04-24 16:50:14
20.   Xeifrank
Just ran a sim of tonights game using the Dodgers starting lineup and Houston projected lineup. It was an exciting game with the Dodgers taking a 2-0 lead in the top of the 5th inning. The Dodgers stretched the lead scoring two more times in the top of the 8th inning, knocking out Pettite to take a commanding 4-0 lead. Grady Little left Lowe in to pitch the 8th inning and after giving up a run was relieved by Saito who promptly gave up a three run homer to Lance Berkman who tied the score up at 4-4. The game remained tied until the 11th inning when Garciappara doubled home Jeff Kent with the go ahead run. Danys Baez pitched the bottom of the 11th to notch the save. Dodger hitting stars were Dionner Navarro who went 2 for 3 with 2 singles, 2 walks, drove in one and scored one run... along with Garciappara who went 3 for 5 with 2 runs scored, 2 singles and a double. No word yet if any of the players failed the simulated drug test. :) vr, Xei
2006-04-24 16:51:05
21.   bhsportsguy
Dodgers with significant ABs against Pettite
Nomar - 47 ABs/ .298 with 6 XBHs, 6Ks
Cruz, Jr. - 43 ABs/ .419 with 2 HRs, 4Ks

OTH - Lofton - 25 ABs/.125/3 SBs

Most of the other main players Furcal, Drew, Kent, don't have much of a history against Pettite.

2006-04-24 16:51:13
22.   Underbruin
18 -That's quite a split for Cruz, there, Bob. Normally I don't like the whole "He's 3 for 9 lifetime" argument, but 43 at-bats is a pretty fair number of appearances.
2006-04-24 16:52:41
23.   ToyCannon
If our current slug% is 409 we should expect a gradual increase with Nomar who should post between a 450-475 and Kent getting back on the beam. Jose Cruz should also show more power then he has so far and for that fact Furcal. Only Mueller and Repko have hit over their heads so far so that slug% will be on the rise very quickly.
While Loney did not strike out I don't really find that anything to get excited about. I'd rather he was swinging and missing with some effort then making contact and hitting weak ground balls. His age is in his favor and I still have hopes for him and his 1st time through the bigs was about what I expected.
2006-04-24 16:54:18
24.   GoBears
Yeah, Pettitte's move IS terrific. Because it's a balk. Every time. And I've never seen it called. At this point, I think it's like Patrick Ewing's 3 steps across the lane - it's HIS move, so the refs (umps) let him be.

Just checked. Pettitte has 9 career balks (called). None in the last 4+ years, which means none in the NL.

2006-04-24 16:55:12
25.   Underbruin
23 - One hopes, and expects to some degree, that his ability to hit for power will improve over the next couple of years. But he's shown an ability to avoid being fooled by major league pitching, despite not having seen any of the players against which he batted (the "Saito" effect, one might say, only one that pushes down his average).

Is he guarenteed to become a star? No. But I think his patience at the plate and ability to put 'bat-on-ball' speaks well for his ability to be a solid contributor in the (not too distant?) future.

2006-04-24 16:55:17
26.   Bob Timmermann
Cruz was 3 for 6 against Pettitte last year.

In 2001, Cruz was 6 for 7. A good chunk of the at bats were early in Cruz's career.

2006-04-24 16:56:52
27.   bhsportsguy
Minor League update courtesy of Baseball Prospectus about 2 big Jacksonville prospects:

OF-R Matt Kemp, Dodgers is currently riding a nine-game hitting streak that includes three home runs and 11 RBIs, lifting his season averages to .319/.395/.583. Just as encouraging are the seven walks--a number Kemp needed 26 games to reach last year.

LHP Greg Miller, Dodgers in five scoreless two-inning appearances, all with a minimum of three days rest, Miller has allowed just one hit and struck out 11, though the occasional command problems (six walks) crop up now and again.

2006-04-24 16:57:50
28.   Jacob L
25 Not to mention his ability to absolutely rake in the Grapefruit League. He's a proven Grapefruiter Leaguer. ;)
2006-04-24 16:58:43
29.   Jon Weisman
There's a helicopter above us and a huge amount of westbound traffic on Wilshire outside LACMA's front door. Some demonstration going on somewhere?
2006-04-24 16:58:51
30.   GoBears
BTW, Neyer's (Insider) article purports to be a list of the Rule-5 All Stars. Without swiping any of his prose, can anyone with Insider status just reproduce the list of names?

Thanks.

2006-04-24 17:03:07
31.   Xeifrank
29. President Bush is in the southland today... Has he left the area yet?
vr, Xei
2006-04-24 17:05:05
32.   thinkblue0
31-

pretty sure he's still here. I'm surprised he came...I know he doesn't like doing LA or NY.

2006-04-24 17:05:59
33.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
16

are you watching that game as well? it would be cool if we get Cody Ross updates.

2006-04-24 17:08:31
34.   Jacob L
And we're underway . . .
2006-04-24 17:09:09
35.   Bob Timmermann
I thought the President was just speaking in Costa Mesa, which I believe is not Wilshire District.

Neyer's Rule 5 All-Stars
Jody Davis
Willie Upshaw
Bip Roberts
Deivi Cruz
Bobby Bonilla
George Bell
Shane Mack
Jay Gibbons
Chris Shelton
Johan Santana
Graeme Lloyd

(I apologize if this got garbled or double posted)

2006-04-24 17:11:21
36.   Uncle Miltie
Looks like I lit a fire under K Loft. He will now proceed to get picked off.
2006-04-24 17:12:02
37.   bhsportsguy
27 - Kemp added another game to his hitting streak going 2/3 with a double and a walk, he struck out in his other plate appearance but his 8 walks/14 strikeouts in 84 plate appearances is a great start for his year.

Right now the only minor league team that has had a slow start is Vero Beach, which probably has a lot to do with the 2004-2005 drafts, while producing top prospects such as Elbert and DeWitt but I think they were hurt by not getting Luke Hochevar or another player of equal ability at that spot.

But with 3 of the top 31 picks, I would expect the Dodgers do be stocked again at the lower levels and it is great to have such good prospect filled teams at AAA and AA.

2006-04-24 17:15:45
38.   Gen3Blue
Howdy, uh-ooh who are these announcers on DTV; I haven't had time to figure it out yet.
2006-04-24 17:16:00
39.   Underbruin
Sheesh. It's good to see that Pettitte doesn't feel like getting strikeouts.

-grumble-

2006-04-24 17:16:13
40.   Marty
Sorry I missed Lynch thoughts in the earlier thread. I can't believe Jon hated Blue Velvet. That's my favorite Lynch movie, followed by Elephant Man. He likes to use shorting-out lights in all his movies if you've noticed.

The cubs-marlin game so far is all about letting Carlos be Carlos...

2006-04-24 17:17:15
41.   Mr Customer
16.
Dear Lord, I had previously failed to make the Dave/Cody connection in Cincy. One can only imagine two possible explanations for this phenomenon.

Either there is a Ross-collection fetish running rampant in NL front offices, or the pull of the previously-undiscovered "Roson" particle becomes exponentially greater as the separation between to Rosses (Rossi?) increases.

2006-04-24 17:18:25
42.   thinkblue0
every time I see Lofton I just think "Willy Mays Hayes".
2006-04-24 17:18:28
43.   Jon Weisman
At least he had to throw 22 pitches (grasping at straws) ...
2006-04-24 17:19:33
44.   Curtis Lowe
43- He also had to show his pick off move a few too many times. It's all going according to plan...
2006-04-24 17:20:16
45.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
man! that was a hanger
2006-04-24 17:20:21
46.   Underbruin
43 - That's true. At this rate, by the 6th inning, he'll be gone with 110 pitches, and he'll have a WHIP of 1 (he'll also have 15 strikeouts, but hey, nobody's perfect).
2006-04-24 17:21:39
47.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Furcal
2006-04-24 17:22:04
48.   Curtis Lowe
Furcal is anemic.
2006-04-24 17:22:27
49.   Underbruin
Whoops. There's a defensive error behind Derek Lowe. We can now expect at least 7 runs this inning, although somehow only 2 of them will be earned.
2006-04-24 17:23:09
50.   Curtis Lowe
What is it with LA sports teams and weak D this year?
Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2006-04-24 17:23:29
51.   Gen3Blue
Furcal,Drew and Kent strike-out? not a good sign. Will our defense make it up. Jeez-Furcal seems flustered lately.
2006-04-24 17:24:09
52.   Curtis Lowe
51- He probably just needs a drink...
2006-04-24 17:24:36
53.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
I could be wrong be Furcal's body language tells me his shoulder is still sore.
2006-04-24 17:25:11
54.   Gen3Blue
Allright Kent!
2006-04-24 17:25:55
55.   Underbruin
50 Apparently you never watched UCLA play basketball.
2006-04-24 17:26:24
56.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
belly whoper by Ensberg.
2006-04-24 17:26:27
57.   Mr Customer
Albert Pujols is just a bad, bad man.
2006-04-24 17:27:18
58.   Jon Weisman
What happened on the Taveras play?
2006-04-24 17:27:41
59.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
57

don't tell me, He hit another one out?

2006-04-24 17:27:49
60.   Mr Customer
How exactly did Taveras wander into getting thrown out at third? Not watching the game.
2006-04-24 17:27:57
61.   Uncle Miltie
50- not the Clippers

Furcal is going to make 25-30 errors this.

What just happened? Taveras stole but then was out at third?

2006-04-24 17:28:13
62.   Curtis Lowe
55- Excluding UCLA basketball.
2006-04-24 17:28:35
63.   Marty
So it looks like Taveras stole second on ball four, but somehow got thrown out at third?
2006-04-24 17:28:42
64.   Mr Customer
59. Is it even worth the energy to guess?
2006-04-24 17:29:18
65.   Curtis Lowe
I retract my statement in 50. I will rephrase.

Why is it that all the LA teams I follow have horrible D?

2006-04-24 17:29:42
66.   Bob Timmermann
Why is it that both "publicly" and "publically" are correct spellings?
2006-04-24 17:30:28
67.   Bob Timmermann
65
Bad luck.

Think about someone who roots for UCLA in football and basketball. Talk about extremes.

2006-04-24 17:30:32
68.   Jon Weisman
Long at-bat for Nomar.
2006-04-24 17:30:40
69.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Preson Wilson has HOPS!!!!!!
2006-04-24 17:30:57
70.   Underbruin
62/65 - Much better. :)
2006-04-24 17:31:06
71.   Curtis Lowe
WHA.....?
2006-04-24 17:31:16
72.   Linkmeister
66 Who sez "publically" is correct? Certainly not me.
2006-04-24 17:31:47
73.   Bob Timmermann
72
The OED sanctions both spellings.
2006-04-24 17:32:12
74.   Underbruin
67 - No kidding. Both teams were apt to give me heart attacks all year long, just for different reasons.
2006-04-24 17:32:25
75.   Mr Customer
58,60,61,63
I have a mental image of a Looney-Tunes-style question mark floating above the heads of all work-bound DT-ers simultaneously.
2006-04-24 17:32:57
76.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
First ball swinging Cruz Jr.
2006-04-24 17:33:08
77.   Curtis Lowe
Whats with all this Astros hustle?
2006-04-24 17:33:11
78.   underdog
Jeez, two hitters were both robbed by great D.

At least they're now hitting the ball...

2006-04-24 17:33:48
79.   Johnson
63 Taveras stole second on ball three (I assume, ball four was the next pitch) and it sounds like he rounded the bag after throw from Navarro got past Furcal, but Kent backed up the play and they caught him being too aggressive. This is via Rick Monday on the radio, so it's the best description I can give you.
2006-04-24 17:34:38
80.   Mr Customer
78.
Looks like a 4-3 groundout in the box score.
2006-04-24 17:34:41
81.   Underbruin
77 Quick, before, his hitting begins to taper off, the Dodgers should trade Repko to the Astros. I'm sure we could get one of their top 3 starters for him... Gotta love all that scrap!
2006-04-24 17:34:47
82.   Marty
The reason I thought it was ball four is Gameday said the next batter walked even though it was three outs.
2006-04-24 17:35:11
83.   Underbruin
78 - Both Drew and Nomar had long flies.
2006-04-24 17:35:22
84.   Mr Customer
79.
So...

Is this the new plan?

2006-04-24 17:35:45
85.   Underbruin
83 - Sorry, that should be to 80
2006-04-24 17:36:26
86.   Johnson
82 The next batter (Berkman) did walk on the subsequent pitch to the steal/out. That was followed by a 5-3 to end the inning.
2006-04-24 17:36:31
87.   Mr Customer
83.
Yeah, I know, but I'm just a little more snarky than usual today.
2006-04-24 17:37:46
88.   Marty
ah, thanks. gotta love Gameday
2006-04-24 17:38:54
89.   ssjames
I am so tired of Lowe walking guys this year. It is making me nuts. Cut it out, would ya Lowe.
2006-04-24 17:39:45
90.   Marty
Neifi! with the freak double.
2006-04-24 17:40:33
91.   Gen3Blue
83 They must have the same tailor.
2006-04-24 17:41:09
92.   overkill94
Brad Ausmus should never hit a ball that far.
2006-04-24 17:41:30
93.   thinkblue0
nothing...NOTHING irritates me more than walking a guy then having him score.
2006-04-24 17:41:53
94.   Steve
He's a ground ball pitcher.
2006-04-24 17:42:13
95.   Underbruin
91 *rimshot*
2006-04-24 17:42:38
96.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
93

an error that SCORES dons't irritate?

2006-04-24 17:43:10
97.   Marty
Juan Pierre up with two on for the Cubs...
2006-04-24 17:44:00
98.   Marty
And Pierre does what Juan Pierre does. Strand them.
2006-04-24 17:45:51
99.   thinkblue0
96-

sure it does, but that doesn't happen NEARLY as often.

2006-04-24 17:48:22
100.   D4P
If Steve is still around, and The List still exists, please add Andy Pettitte's incredibly annoying "look under his cap to the plate to get the sign when there are runners on base".
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2006-04-24 17:49:18
101.   Steve
You mean, that's not on The List already?
2006-04-24 17:51:17
102.   MartinBillingsley31
Why the hell is lofton starting against a lefty, i thought he was going to be platooned?
2006-04-24 17:53:05
103.   Jon Weisman
102 - We've discussed this. It's either because Repko is ill, or because Pettitte isn't a typical lefty. Neither of which may be particularly satisfying reasons for you.
2006-04-24 17:53:56
104.   Marty
I'm listening to Leo Kottke's Armadillo album. If anyone wants to hear a guitar wizard, check it out.
2006-04-24 17:54:11
105.   thinkblue0
this already smells like one of those games where we manage to scratch out 4 hits, but lose 2-0....hopefully we can get a guy or two on and get a big fly....
2006-04-24 17:54:15
106.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
1,2,3 inning & let's get some runs blue!!
2006-04-24 17:56:35
107.   underdog
Your first candidate in the Best Mondayism Poll tonight:

"But Taveras has already made a loud vote tonight."

Hah?

2006-04-24 17:56:49
108.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Let's get it started Kent
2006-04-24 17:58:03
109.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
107

Picturing him saying it is what get's me all the time!! LOL!!

2006-04-24 17:58:57
110.   underdog
105 Just the first three words in your post there seem to sum things up neatly so far.
2006-04-24 17:59:33
111.   Jon Weisman
105 - If Houston is held to two runs, that would be a feat.
2006-04-24 18:02:51
112.   Fallout
I'm a day late but can someone tell me what Tomko's fastball was clocked at yeaterday?
2006-04-24 18:03:56
113.   bhsportsguy
111 - Outside of his first start, Lowe has pitched better, best number is one HR in his last 22 innings. He is definitely keeping the ball down thus far today.
2006-04-24 18:04:02
114.   regfairfield
111 While Houston has expirenced success so far, it's only a matter of time before they fold.

While Berkman and Ensberg are legitimate threats, and Jason Lane should bounce back, look at who else has unbelievably high averages, which boosts the team OPS:

Biggio: .352
Ausmus: .310
Everett: .290

Once those get back to the levels they should, Houston will end up as a below average offensive team.

2006-04-24 18:04:42
115.   bhsportsguy
Okay, do you send him 3-2.......
2006-04-24 18:05:35
116.   thinkblue0
alomar, kent, biggio, soriano?
2006-04-24 18:05:46
117.   bhsportsguy
Answer is no, since Grady and his staff is familiar with Pettite, I'm guessing that they don't think that he is wild.
2006-04-24 18:06:41
118.   Jon Weisman
113 - My comment was more about Houston than Lowe. But Lowe still deserves some skepticism.
2006-04-24 18:07:52
119.   Linkmeister
What's the trivia question?
2006-04-24 18:08:51
120.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
I think next time around we'll hit Pettitte (atleast that's what I hope)
2006-04-24 18:09:48
121.   underdog
Argh, redux. Monday's call of that eventual double play was so terrible I had no idea what was happening until it was all over. Sigh. I'm going home. Maybe things will be better by then. At any rate... happy Monday everyone.
2006-04-24 18:09:58
122.   oldbear
Thank goodness Jeff Kent signed his extension when he did.
2006-04-24 18:11:26
123.   jasonungar05
There is nothing I have seen out of Furcal to suggest he is a better defensive SS than Izzy was/is.

Do you guys agree with that?

The only thing I have seen and almost hope is that Furcal is still hurt.

I don't know what defensive stats have said, but I have always thought Izzy to be a better defensive SS than Furcal. 20 Games in and nothing has changed my mind(realizing eyes can be wrong).

2006-04-24 18:11:32
124.   thinkblue0
that kind of stuff only happens to the dodgers...at least it seems that way.

With the way things are shaking up, I don't see us scoring more than a run off pettitte. Hopefully we can get his pitch count up. Not being pessimistic, he's just pretty much dominating us...

2006-04-24 18:15:07
125.   oldbear
It just occurred to me thinking about James Loney and his hitting into 5DP's. That really shouldnt come as a surprise.

#1. Loney is a contact hitter
#2. Loney is not a fast base runner.
#3. Loney doesnt drive the ball with air underneath it. There's no uppercut in his swing like so many LH power hitters have (edmonds).

Someone compared Loney to Mark Grace. If I were a betting man, I'd wager that Grace hit into a lot of DP's in his career too for the exact reasons above.

Projecting Loney to hit .300+ when he hasnt done it at the minor league level is where I lose faith in James.

2006-04-24 18:16:28
126.   jasonungar05
I don't loose Faith in anyone who is 21. Not that your points aren't valid!
2006-04-24 18:16:32
127.   oldbear
124. Who's gonna break up Pettite's no-hitter? I think Nomar will, just a hunch.
2006-04-24 18:17:47
128.   jasonungar05
I'll go with Mueller
2006-04-24 18:18:53
129.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
123

Furcal steels more bases & has more pop! But for my taste I'd rather have a gold glove S.S. then a ERROR making S.S. JMO

2006-04-24 18:19:03
130.   Steve
The thing that I wonder about, re the Kent deal (which did not strike me as a horrible move at first blush), is what Colletti thought he was bidding against. This is another one of those instances where you don't just have an "unfree" market, you don't have any market at all, and so you're just guessing.
2006-04-24 18:19:16
131.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Nomar.
2006-04-24 18:20:17
132.   oldbear
Nomar looks alot better when he doesnt hack. I hope he keeps his patience up. He's done pretty well the first two games.
2006-04-24 18:20:18
133.   oldbear
Nomar looks alot better when he doesnt hack. I hope he keeps his patience up. He's done pretty well the first two games.
2006-04-24 18:20:52
134.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
I guess it won't be Mueller
2006-04-24 18:21:37
135.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Cruz Jr. first pitch swinging AGAIN!
2006-04-24 18:22:03
136.   Gen3Blue
If Greg Miller continues to be healthy, he should be eased back into starting. It is ridiculous to turn a 21 year old 6'5" lefty with his stuff into some kind of middle reliever. No room at closer, for we have two major league closers, and anyone with a good fastball( Broxton,Kuo), won't get a chance to start.
Then again Baseball's evolution over the last 40 years is pointing to two sets of starters throwing 3 innings each; maybe he could be a first 3 or second 3 guy.
2006-04-24 18:22:13
137.   Sam DC
Just looking at the gameday, Cody Ross and his 9 RBIs have not made it into the game at RFK.

Marty -- you are listening to records in a hotel in Washington DC?

Bob -- but does the OED "sanction" both by allowing them or "sanction" both by punishing them. That word troubles me.

2006-04-24 18:22:19
138.   thinkblue0
129-

you'd rather have a SS that can't hit the broad side of a barn? you've got to be kidding if you'd rather have Izturis over Furcal...

2006-04-24 18:23:06
139.   oldbear
No-hitter through 5IP.

With Navarro, Pitcher, Furcal coming up in the 6th, Pettite has a chnace to make things interesting.

Am I mistaken, or were there no no-hitters last year? The last no-hitter I remember was Randy Johnson's perfect game against the Braves in 2004.

2006-04-24 18:23:59
140.   thinkblue0
136-

from what's been said, his arm simply can't handle being in the starting rotation. Sad part of the game...but having him as a 3 inning guy would be nice.

2006-04-24 18:23:59
141.   Marty
24 thoughts. I don't trust Audrey!
2006-04-24 18:24:34
142.   gcrl
spent a few minutes earlier watching the cubs/marlins on espn. would someone explain to me why dave o'brien needs a nickname ("ob")? i can understand with eric karros and rick sutcliffe in the booth, there may be some confusion because their names sound alike, so i can deal with "ek" and "sut". but to call dave o'brien "ob" is dumb. erin andrews is called "erin". this is the primary reason i only watched for a few minutes.
2006-04-24 18:24:41
143.   Marty
Sam, let's hear it for Ipods!
2006-04-24 18:24:59
144.   jasonungar05
129 yeah, I am not even talking offense whatsoever.

If I could, right now I'd cruise into the Houston dugout, check for chicks and then go sit right next to Pettitte and start talking politics or religion

2006-04-24 18:25:30
145.   Steve
What can Furcal hit?
2006-04-24 18:25:53
146.   Gen3Blue
123 Izzy looks better defensively. I just don't know, but I always thought his offensive collapse might have been because he was hurting. If thats it, for his healthy stretch in 2004 he is just about as good on O.
2006-04-24 18:26:53
147.   Steve
Why would you bunt in front of the pitcher?
2006-04-24 18:27:43
148.   oldbear
The only chics in the dugout are in San Diego. Apparently, Keith Hernandez is against female massage therapists.

According to Bruce Bochy, the Padres masseuse has a very important job that helps get the players ready for the game.

2006-04-24 18:27:50
149.   Gen3Blue
3 would be better than nothing. But you have to wait and see. I don't think when your 21 you can say gee-my arm can't take it.
2006-04-24 18:29:14
150.   jasonungar05
Marty..I don't trust that little weaslie guy who hangs out with the Dept of Homeland Security Woman.

148-Keith still won't help Jerry move though!!

Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2006-04-24 18:29:48
151.   thinkblue0
I don't think when your 21 you can say gee-my arm can't take it.

you absolutely can. Not only that, but 21 is the exact age where I had to say "gee, my arm can't take it" when I was pitching in college.

2006-04-24 18:29:59
152.   confucius
I'd rather Izzy at 3 million than Furcal at 13, even if he does hit twelve homers.
2006-04-24 18:30:21
153.   Steve
Why would you go on the radio and pretend to know anything and not say anything about the loon who just tried to bunt in front of the pitcher?
2006-04-24 18:32:23
154.   oldbear
Furcal is really due for a hit. Maybe he'll be the one to break up this no hitter.
2006-04-24 18:33:56
155.   Underbruin
Gamecast has the Biggio groundout to end the inning, without explaining what happened with Ausmus. Anybody want to explain?
2006-04-24 18:34:32
156.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
138

Just My Opinion, call me 'ol school. Furcal dose have more pop & can steal more bases. BUT HE CAN ALSO MAKE ALOT OF ERRORS!

2006-04-24 18:37:02
157.   Sam DC
It's the bottom of the ninth in DC, 4-2 Reds. Unless the Nationals tie the game and take it to extra innings, no new memories for Cody Ross tonight.
2006-04-24 18:37:07
158.   Bob Timmermann
- B. Ausmus doubled to deep right center
- A. Everett grounded out to shortstop
- A. Pettitte struck out swinging
- C. Biggio grounded out to shortstop
2006-04-24 18:37:29
159.   Curtis Lowe
Will someone please shoot the schreeching fan.
2006-04-24 18:37:54
160.   Marty
150 Yes, he's a worry too, but I suspect Audrey cuz she was with Cummings, and Peter Weller said he cut some main artery and now it isn't that bad. And she sounds too strident telling Jack to get the tape.

Could be me just reading too much into it though...

2006-04-24 18:38:16
161.   thinkblue0
156-

how many of those errors are going to cost us games, or even cost us runs? It's not like errors score EVERY time....

On the flip side, having Izturis' black hole in our lineup absolutely kills our ability to score runs.

2006-04-24 18:38:45
162.   Underbruin
158 - Thank you. Gamecast (ESPN's new service, which is rather nice to look at but still seems buggy) missed the Pettitte SO.
2006-04-24 18:39:33
163.   thinkblue0
156-

not to mention furcal has really improved. Last year he had 15 Errors compared to 11 for Izturis.

You're telling me you'd trade those 4 more errors for absolutely ZERO offense? Would you take JT Snow over David Ortiz?

2006-04-24 18:39:40
164.   oldbear
Furcal is really struggling.
9 outs for history.
Pettite at 88 pitches.
2006-04-24 18:39:47
165.   Bob Timmermann
You folks do know that "24" isn't going to air here for another 2 1/2 hours.
2006-04-24 18:40:26
166.   Steve
You know what, I looked it up, and Rafael Furcal can, indeed, make a lot of errors. He was particularly Offermanian in 2003. But Furcal gets more chances too -- I'd guess that he has better range just looking at the raw and clumsy numbers. Neither of them get you very far.
2006-04-24 18:41:29
167.   Steve
Didn't Reuss say what a big mistake Adam Everett made?
2006-04-24 18:42:12
168.   Sam DC
I think there's a guy who runs this website who knows about all sorts of fancy defensive metrics that try and shed some light on those problems. Maybe he'll tell us.
2006-04-24 18:43:34
169.   Curtis Lowe
Nomar will end the hitlessness with a Homerun and then will hit another homerun in the 14th inning to win the game;.
2006-04-24 18:43:39
170.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
BREAK THE NO-NO!!
2006-04-24 18:44:02
171.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Did you guys here Steiner!!? that was funny!
2006-04-24 18:44:35
172.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
He was like "how about that positioning by Furcal"
2006-04-24 18:44:39
173.   Steve
Oh, I get it. It was a "mistake" to ground out to the shortstop. Well, yeah, I guess. Thanks, Bob.
2006-04-24 18:45:16
174.   Marty
I guess I was wrong
2006-04-24 18:45:40
175.   Underbruin
139You're correct - the last recorded no-hitter was Randy Johnson in 2004.
2006-04-24 18:45:42
176.   Bob Timmermann
169 170 will meet with Jon's supertitious, psychological ire.
2006-04-24 18:45:51
177.   underdog
"Derek Lowe's pitching performance so far has stayed underneath the radar gun." - Monday

I know what he means though. Poor Lowe.

2006-04-24 18:46:38
178.   Curtis Lowe
176- funny mispelling.
2006-04-24 18:47:28
179.   Bob Timmermann
https://griddle.baseballtoaster.com/archives/356343.html

Presented without comment

2006-04-24 18:48:10
180.   Marty
Bob, I'm sorry. I will not speak of it again.
2006-04-24 18:48:57
181.   overkill94
JDtD!
2006-04-24 18:48:58
182.   jasonungar05
woo hooo
2006-04-24 18:49:15
183.   Linkmeister
Woohoo Drew!
2006-04-24 18:49:19
184.   Bob Timmermann
180
Thanks Marty. If you kept that up, MILLIONS OF PEOPLE WOULD DIE!!!

Then I would have to shoot you in the thigh.

2006-04-24 18:49:33
185.   Telemachos
Thank yew Drew!!!
2006-04-24 18:49:34
186.   Curtis Lowe
DREW!!!!DREW!!!!DREW!!!!
2006-04-24 18:49:41
187.   thinkblue0
DREW!!!!!!!!!!!!
2006-04-24 18:49:54
188.   underdog
good bye No No. Good bye lead. Huzzah, JD!
2006-04-24 18:49:58
189.   Bob Timmermann
179

Likely won't be updating that page tonight.

2006-04-24 18:49:58
190.   Steve
But it kills the rally... :(
2006-04-24 18:50:09
191.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
JD DREW ROCKS!!
2006-04-24 18:50:15
192.   gcrl
184
the fleshy part, i hope
2006-04-24 18:50:21
193.   gpellamjr
Thank the Gods! Now I don't have to listen to Steiner and Steve "Idiot" Lyons talk about Pettitte's no-hitter anymore. Hey guys, he doesn't have one!
2006-04-24 18:50:24
194.   bhsportsguy
Should Grady take Lowe out now?
2006-04-24 18:51:41
195.   Curtis Lowe
184- That would not phase Marty maybe try his wife.
2006-04-24 18:51:56
196.   Telemachos
190 That's why JD just isn't a scrappy ballplayer.
2006-04-24 18:53:45
197.   oldbear
Has Lofton lit Drew's fuse or what?
2006-04-24 18:53:49
198.   overkill94
Man, Rotoworld can be pretty brutal sometimes:

Jason Kendall started Monday despite sporting a shiner under his right eye, the result of a head butt from his 16-month-old son, Kuyper.
The kid's got more power than his father does. Apr. 24 - 9:44 pm et

2006-04-24 18:54:04
199.   confucius
I'd stick with Lowe, but throw behind him in the pen.
2006-04-24 18:55:46
200.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
great pitching duel I'm enjoining it.
Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2006-04-24 18:56:13
201.   gcrl
don't tell me kendall's kid was named after duane kuiper! at least the elder kendall has more power than kuiper had.
2006-04-24 18:56:19
202.   confucius
Wilson - 22 K's 2 walks. Bill Stoneman is dying to get this guy on his roster.
2006-04-24 18:57:20
203.   Linkmeister
200 Grins. Enjoining it, huh? Hey, lawyers! ;)
2006-04-24 18:58:18
204.   Bob Timmermann
Estop! Or I will eshoot!
2006-04-24 18:58:23
205.   scooplew
Kent is now hitting exactly .200, and .143 since the opening three-game series vs. Atlanta.
2006-04-24 18:58:41
206.   underdog
200 I thought you could only enjoin Twins games?

{rimshot}

2006-04-24 18:59:58
207.   Bob Timmermann
The Cubs have scored six runs on three hits in the 8th at Wrigley against Florida.
2006-04-24 18:59:59
208.   confucius
206. Haha
2006-04-24 19:00:10
209.   Steve
Yay! Carter and Hamulack!
2006-04-24 19:01:29
210.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
if it get's anyworse in Saito we trust!!
2006-04-24 19:03:00
211.   bhsportsguy
At least we got rid of Pettite, anyone think that Tracy would have sent up Pettite in this spot.
2006-04-24 19:03:52
212.   Bob Timmermann
Hoboken?

Ooooh, I'm dying!!!

2006-04-24 19:04:42
213.   capdodger
211 All part of the master plan...
2006-04-24 19:04:47
214.   Linkmeister
Pettite was very good, Charlie (Steiner), but give Lowe some credit too. Good good pitching.
2006-04-24 19:05:32
215.   Curtis Lowe
"Mu" "Ell" "Er"

"Mu" "Ell" "Er"

2006-04-24 19:05:38
216.   Steve
211 -- Does anyone not think that?
2006-04-24 19:06:15
217.   oldbear
Lowe- 101-62.....15-1
Pettitte- 101-61.....13-3

15-1 GO-AO ratio for Lowe. Wow.

2006-04-24 19:06:40
218.   gcrl
i have to get back out west. these in-n-out and weinerschnitzel commercials are killing me.
2006-04-24 19:07:09
219.   Bob Timmermann
Remember last year when Javier Vazquez hit a home run against Sanchez in Arizona to put the DBacks and then he went out to warm up and THEN Bob Melvin pulled him.

That was the same night that Duaner turned the BOB into the House of Flying Gloves.

2006-04-24 19:07:25
220.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
206

cut me some slack will ya! My spelling is very bad I know! :o)

2006-04-24 19:07:57
221.   Curtis Lowe
"Mu" "Ell" "Er"
"Mu" "Ell" "Er"
2006-04-24 19:08:23
222.   bhsportsguy
212 - Pardon me, but could you help out a fellow American who's down on his luck?"
2006-04-24 19:08:26
223.   Bob Timmermann
220

It's just that you stumbled into a funny word.

2006-04-24 19:09:59
224.   Bob Timmermann
222

I'm glad to know somebody else has spent a lot of time watching very old Warner Brothers cartoons.

2006-04-24 19:10:30
225.   oldbear
We're finally seeing the Cruz that played in Arizona and Boston last year.
2006-04-24 19:11:31
226.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
223

What word is that?

2006-04-24 19:11:52
227.   thinkblue0
226-

enjoin

2006-04-24 19:12:44
228.   Curtis Lowe
ugly strikezone.
2006-04-24 19:12:46
229.   thinkblue0
has Navarro gotten a hit in the past three weeks? I'm dead serious too...I can't remember the last time I saw him actually get a hit.
2006-04-24 19:12:48
230.   Uncle Miltie
Grits better not pinch hit for Lowe. Our bullpen is awful.
2006-04-24 19:13:57
231.   Uncle Miltie
Ledee is a good pinch hitter, but Wheeler is an excellent setup man. I would have kept Lowe in.
2006-04-24 19:14:23
232.   Bob Timmermann
Dioner Navarro was 2 for 3 Sunday.
2006-04-24 19:14:38
233.   gcrl
lowe looked like he could use a beer just then.
2006-04-24 19:14:51
234.   oldbear
The offense is missing the "Saenz vs LHP" component.
2006-04-24 19:14:52
235.   Uncle Miltie
Ledee makes an out, inning over, game over.
2006-04-24 19:14:53
236.   capdodger
229 - He got a double yesterday and a single on Saturday.
2006-04-24 19:14:54
237.   thinkblue0
232-

That was the day I missed...I didn't even look at the stats from it.

2006-04-24 19:16:03
238.   oldbear
Lowe's at 101 pitches and the top of the Astros order is comign up in the 8th. I'd probably have taken him out too.
2006-04-24 19:16:07
239.   Vishal
why aren't there any left-handed catchers?
2006-04-24 19:16:20
240.   capdodger
229, 236, 232 - Bob is right. I was reading the wrong column.
2006-04-24 19:17:01
241.   Greg Brock
Did we ever think we'd be complaining about Grady pulling a starter TOO EARLY.
2006-04-24 19:18:01
242.   Bob Timmermann
239

Catchers aren't left handed because it is felt that they would be at a disadvantage fielding bunts and throwing to first as well as trying to throw out runners trying to steal (since most batters are righthanded)

2006-04-24 19:18:43
243.   Curtis Lowe
Saaiiito your @$% down biggio
2006-04-24 19:19:55
244.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
HEAT!!!!!
2006-04-24 19:20:11
245.   oldbear
Was Saito this good in Japan? I'm in awe.
2006-04-24 19:20:14
246.   Curtis Lowe
See 243
2006-04-24 19:20:18
247.   Greg Brock
This guy is sooooo dirty.
2006-04-24 19:20:19
248.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
243

LOL!

2006-04-24 19:20:36
249.   confucius
Saito is going to give up a run eventually, I just hope it isn't now.
2006-04-24 19:20:37
250.   gcrl
239
i would guess it's because most batters are right handed, and the glove hand is on the wrong side for tags at the plate.

in babe ruth, our best player was a lefty catcher

Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2006-04-24 19:21:39
251.   Greg Brock
Bing Bong
2006-04-24 19:21:49
252.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
249

SPOKE TO SOON!

2006-04-24 19:21:55
253.   Greg Brock
Nice job Confucius
2006-04-24 19:22:00
254.   oldbear
Oooooops. Spoke too soon.
2006-04-24 19:22:07
255.   capdodger
I never understood the belief that it would be harder for a left-handed catcher to field bunts. They wouldn't have to spin like a right handed catcher would.
2006-04-24 19:22:10
256.   Vishal
[242] i don't see the disadvantage throwing to first.

and is there some sort of statistic that (ostensibly right-handed) catchers throw out fewer runners when there is a left-handed batter in the box?

left-handed first basemen also have a slight advantage, but there are still right-handed first basemen. if a lefty catcher has a good enough arm, i don't see why there can't be one.

2006-04-24 19:22:11
257.   gcrl
confucious is/was a very wise man...
2006-04-24 19:22:12
258.   Curtis Lowe
249- !!!!!
2006-04-24 19:22:50
259.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
2-0 fastball bad call, oh well Saito is only human
2006-04-24 19:22:52
260.   Uncle Miltie
There we go. That's the Saito that pitched in Japan. Game over.
2006-04-24 19:23:21
261.   Vishal
[249] you just HAD to open your mouth about it, didn't you.
2006-04-24 19:23:53
262.   gcrl
has anyone worn 44 since the strawman?
2006-04-24 19:24:03
263.   Curtis Lowe
bah!
2006-04-24 19:24:06
264.   A Slo
You think a LH catcher would do well at throwing out runners stealing 3rd?
2006-04-24 19:24:21
265.   oldbear
I always thought RH 1st basemen had a defensive advantage because they can guard the line easier, taking away the extra base hits.
2006-04-24 19:24:25
266.   Greg Brock
You can't have your catcher reaching across his body to make a tag on every play at the plate. And you can't have a catcher throwing through right handed batters on SB attempts. Too many righties.
2006-04-24 19:24:43
267.   capdodger
256 Left-handed first basemen also have a slight advantage, but there are still right-handed first basemen. if a lefty catcher has a good enough arm, i don't see why there can't be one.

It's probably a developmental thing. If you have a good left-handed fielding player, why play him at catcher where he's going to get beaten up?

2006-04-24 19:25:14
268.   Bob Timmermann
256

A lefthanded catcher would be facing the wrong direction when throwing to first on most bunts. He would have to throw across his body.

It's not a huge disadvantage, but once you get to pro ball, the Powers That Be feel it is.

Now left-handed second baseman or shortstop would be a sight to see.

2006-04-24 19:25:17
269.   Curtis Lowe
Okay 3 K's but a HR this team makes me crazy.
2006-04-24 19:25:49
270.   D4P
266
Do you remember the time you hit that grand slam off Al Holland vs. the Pirates? That was awesome. Do you remember that?
2006-04-24 19:26:12
271.   Vishal
[265] but they have a harder time ranging to their right, where there is more ground. they also have a longer arm movement when catching pickoff throws from the pitcher.
2006-04-24 19:29:14
272.   capdodger
266 Why not?

264 This makes sense. Throwing out a runner at third around a RHB is hard for a RHC who can jabstep around the batter. The lefty would have to try and go over the batter's head (if short) or around them somehow (if tall). That's probably the best reason.

2006-04-24 19:29:14
273.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Furcal is trying to hard right now I think!
2006-04-24 19:29:32
274.   Curtis Lowe
How many games have the Dodgers lost by 1 run?
2006-04-24 19:29:33
275.   Greg Brock
Yes, my career was long and storied
2006-04-24 19:30:20
276.   Greg Brock
This run comes in or I'm taking hostages
2006-04-24 19:30:45
277.   oldbear
Lofton must be clutch. He owns the 9th inning.
2006-04-24 19:30:55
278.   Bob Timmermann
Dodger 44s after Strawberry:

Mark Guthrie
Phil Hiatt
Paul Shuey
Takashi Saito

2006-04-24 19:31:07
279.   gcrl
275
i enjoyed how you hit so many meaningless homeruns, yet managed to drive in so few runners.
2006-04-24 19:31:12
280.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Come on Drew
2006-04-24 19:31:47
281.   Greg Brock
Look at Ausmus just wear that sinker in the dirt. What a man.
2006-04-24 19:32:07
282.   Uncle Miltie
Everytime I criticize K Loft, it seems to light a fire under him. Drew better do something here.
2006-04-24 19:32:13
283.   Greg Brock
Shut up Lyons. I said it first.
2006-04-24 19:32:42
284.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
man I find my self biting my nails!!
2006-04-24 19:32:56
285.   A Slo
272

Not just the throwing around the batter, but the need to turn the body and throw...RH Catcher is in better natural position. Same reason you don't see LH SS, 2B, 3B.

2006-04-24 19:32:58
286.   gcrl
setting up the 643
2006-04-24 19:33:11
287.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
wait.. I'm biting my skin now! oops!
2006-04-24 19:33:34
288.   Bob Timmermann
Giants lead 3-0 on an Alou homer.

Mike Matheny is batting sixth for the Giants. Followed by Pedro Feliz and Jose Vizcaino.

2006-04-24 19:33:41
289.   Greg Brock
I know you can't criticize a guy for a walk, but that was such a J.D. Drew at bat...I'll just take my walk, thank you very much.
2006-04-24 19:34:25
290.   Curtis Lowe
"Je" "ff" "Kent"

"Je" "ff" "Kent"

2006-04-24 19:34:37
291.   Uncle Miltie
Good job Drew...keeping the inning alive.

Kent will find some way to blow it.

2006-04-24 19:34:47
292.   jasonungar05
that is crazy talk GB
2006-04-24 19:35:00
293.   oldbear
Drew tried not to walk. He swung at the 1st two pitches out of the zone.
2006-04-24 19:35:20
294.   gcrl
"porn" "mus" "tache"
"porn" "mus" "tache"
2006-04-24 19:36:07
295.   Greg Brock
I'm not knocking him...It's just a very J.D. Drew thing to do...Relax, I like the guy.
2006-04-24 19:36:08
296.   capdodger
285 The "Why Not?" was in reference to 266's comment on reaching across the body to make the tags. I referenced incorrectly. I agree with the throwing on SB attempts.
2006-04-24 19:36:42
297.   capdodger
NOMAHH TIME!!!!
2006-04-24 19:36:43
298.   Uncle Miltie
Good job Kent. I thought he'd go for the RBI.
2006-04-24 19:36:55
299.   oldbear
Nomar with a chance to win the game.
2006-04-24 19:36:57
300.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Lidge can't throw strikes!
Show/Hide Comments 301-350
2006-04-24 19:37:11
301.   D4P
"No" "ma" "ah"
"No" "ma" "ah"
2006-04-24 19:37:46
302.   Greg Brock
I think Lidge sees Albert Pujols every time somebody steps in the box.
2006-04-24 19:37:50
303.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
dam! Nomar was sitting on that one!
2006-04-24 19:38:11
304.   gcrl
"o" "c" "d"
"o" "c" "d"
2006-04-24 19:38:40
305.   sanchez101
NOMAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
2006-04-24 19:38:42
306.   Greg Brock
Nomaaahhhhhhhhhhh
2006-04-24 19:38:46
307.   gcrl
boo ya
2006-04-24 19:38:50
308.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
that's right!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2006-04-24 19:39:11
309.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2006-04-24 19:39:13
310.   Greg Brock
"I see dead people....Um, I mean Pujols"
2006-04-24 19:39:19
311.   xaphor
I think that counts for 2 of the 9.
2006-04-24 19:39:33
312.   Uncle Miltie
All praise Nomar! Wow. I wish I watching this game.
2006-04-24 19:39:37
313.   Curtis Lowe
NOMAHHHHHHHHHHH
2006-04-24 19:39:38
314.   capdodger
Hold on... Need to adjust my keyboard....
unplug, plug, shift, unplug, plug, shift...

Ok, what did I miss?

2006-04-24 19:39:40
315.   Bob Timmermann
The fans in Houston haven't seen Danys Baez pitch much have they?
2006-04-24 19:39:44
316.   Vishal
haha, SWEET! 1 down, 8 to go.
2006-04-24 19:39:46
317.   oldbear
YES!

Nomar does have power. At least in Houston.

2006-04-24 19:39:56
318.   D4P
8 HRs, 96 RBI to go.
2006-04-24 19:40:00
319.   overkill94
Maybe this Nomar guy can hit after all
2006-04-24 19:40:02
320.   gcrl
steiner channeled mel allen there...

how 'bout that?

2006-04-24 19:40:07
321.   Nick Iyengar
wow.
2006-04-24 19:40:42
322.   bhsportsguy
I guess this will cool the Kent to 1B for at least a day.
2006-04-24 19:40:45
323.   Uncle Miltie
That means he only has 8 left.
2006-04-24 19:40:59
324.   sanchez101
oh, and willy aybar, in case anyone cares, also sluggs a homer. eh, only three runs.
2006-04-24 19:41:18
325.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
this inning took alot out of me man!! woo!
2006-04-24 19:41:42
326.   fanerman
Nice.
2006-04-24 19:42:07
327.   A Slo
That was well worth using up one of 9 right there.
2006-04-24 19:42:14
328.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
You can here a pin drop in minute made park
2006-04-24 19:42:15
329.   oldbear
Lidge's ERA goes from 3.48 to 6.97. Nothing like some walks and home runs.
2006-04-24 19:42:17
330.   Bob Timmermann
After the game:

Ned: Nomar, nice home run there!
Nomar: Thanks!
Ned: You do know our policy though about guys who hit grand slams?
Nomar: No
Ned: We can't keep you.
Nomar: What?
Ned: Did you read the contract?
Nomar: There's nothing like that.
Ned: I'm afraid so. Tell Mia that you are going to Cincinnati. Sorry.

2006-04-24 19:42:17
331.   gcrl
could that be the monday moment?
2006-04-24 19:42:30
332.   Greg Brock
Nice hit Nomar...You officially have one thing I'll remember from your one-year stay. Thanks for the memories....errrr, memory.
2006-04-24 19:43:46
333.   oldbear
Is Lidge hurt? Why did they take him out?
2006-04-24 19:43:49
334.   bhsportsguy
Did not see it, I remember Pujos' shot, that was the hardest ball I have ever seen, how was this one. Line drive or just a towering fly ball?
2006-04-24 19:43:53
335.   Uncle Miltie
Nothing like some walks and home runs.
Talk about a rally killer...
2006-04-24 19:44:13
336.   Bob Timmermann
I would assume Garner doesn't want Lidge to throw too many pitches.
2006-04-24 19:44:41
337.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
oh look at Cruz finnaly get a hit.
2006-04-24 19:44:59
338.   Bob Timmermann
334

Nomar hit the ball hard, but it was about 20-30 feet lower than Pujols's shot last year.

2006-04-24 19:45:46
339.   Greg Brock
They probably pulled Lidge because of his pitch count...That, or the 9,000 foot grand slam he gave up. One of those two things.
2006-04-24 19:46:06
340.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
334

it was a BOMB bro! Left centerfield

2006-04-24 19:46:30
341.   Telemachos
334 It was a hard-hit fly ball, and hit most of the way up the columns behind the left-field wall.

P.S. I rather like Nomah so far. If he can keep from swinging at everything (and stay healthy, of course), he may well earn his millions.

2006-04-24 19:46:46
343.   Bob Timmermann
No longer a Save Situation™
2006-04-24 19:47:03
344.   Linkmeister
I think Saito-san may get his first MLB win tonight.
2006-04-24 19:47:04
345.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
339

LOL!

2006-04-24 19:47:13
346.   gcrl
no save for danys
2006-04-24 19:49:43
347.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
IS Baez gonna come in?
2006-04-24 19:49:45
348.   oldbear
Its so much easier to score when you walk and hit for power.
2006-04-24 19:50:54
349.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
OH O!
2006-04-24 19:51:02
350.   D4P
The All Star!!!
Show/Hide Comments 351-400
2006-04-24 19:51:03
351.   Greg Brock
Walks and home runs...You sound like one of them stat people...We don't take too kindly to you "Thinker-Types" in Dodgertown. Just ask the last guy...You know, the guy who had the job before Super Mario came in.
2006-04-24 19:51:24
352.   Greg Brock
Walks and home runs...You sound like one of them stat people...We don't take too kindly to you "Thinker-Types" in Dodgertown. Just ask the last guy...You know, the guy who had the job before Super Mario came in.
2006-04-24 19:51:27
353.   Curtis Lowe
ahhhh
2006-04-24 19:51:43
354.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Carter in.
2006-04-24 19:51:52
355.   A Slo
Carter is in for his "set-up" role. Let one guy on and Baez has a save opp.
2006-04-24 19:52:02
356.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
the gun in Minute maid park in juiced!!
2006-04-24 19:52:28
357.   Bob Timmermann
Two guys have to reach for it to be a save situation.
2006-04-24 19:52:30
358.   Uncle Miltie
Carter? There will be a save opportunity for Baez tonight.
2006-04-24 19:53:03
359.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
here we go!
2006-04-24 19:53:32
360.   Curtis Lowe
Why does BP carter get to do this to me?
2006-04-24 19:53:35
361.   Greg Brock
The brought the gas can in so that Baez can get a save. Grady taking care of his closer.
2006-04-24 19:53:38
362.   D4P
So, let me get this straight. If you enter the game in the 9th with a 3 run lead, and give up 2 runs while getting 3 outs, you get a "save." If you enter the game in the 9th with a 4 run lead, and give up 0 runs while getting 3 outs, you don't get a save.

Remind me again why saves are valued so highly.

PS: Lance Carter's official job description involves creating save opportunities for Baez.

2006-04-24 19:53:52
363.   overkill94
Can you say "quick hook" Grady?

I sure hope you do.

2006-04-24 19:53:53
364.   gcrl
i like lyons' thinking: it's ok to put a guy on base because it sets up the double play
2006-04-24 19:54:12
365.   jasonungar05
346 don't speak so soon, Carter is in
2006-04-24 19:54:19
366.   BLUEBLEEDER--88 HERSHISER
Our catcher sleeps back there or something???
2006-04-24 19:54:28
367.   Sam DC
330 Well paced, understated, overall -- pretty darn funny.
2006-04-24 19:54:54
368.   A Slo
Thanks for the correction Bob. But since you can get a save if you come in with a 3 run lead, I figured you could get a save if you came in with a 4-run lead and a runner on.
2006-04-24 19:54:58
369.   gcrl
now two guys on sets up the triple play. brilliant!
2006-04-24 19:54:59
370.   overkill94
YANK!
2006-04-24 19:55:13
371.   Curtis Lowe
Sir Lanceanot!
2006-04-24 19:55:19
372.   Bob Timmermann
362
When you think about it, wins and losses and saves are all pretty much arbitrary.
2006-04-24 19:55:31
373.   fawnkyj
Take him out! Send him to AAA, pack his bags! Carter is awful.
2006-04-24 19:55:37
374.   oldbear
Tying run on deck. Carter offical "sets up" Baez.

Good job All Star.

2006-04-24 19:56:58
375.   Greg Brock
Correct...Tying run on deck. Easiest way to remember.
2006-04-24 19:57:06
376.   Curtis Lowe
Can we have some Dialogoue between Kent Carter and Grady?
2006-04-24 19:57:36
377.   MollyKnight
He may be an overpriced injury waiting to happen, but Nomar just did more for the Dodgers with one crack of the bat than Darren Dreifort ever did.
2006-04-24 19:57:38
378.   Bob Timmermann
368

You get a save anytime you come in with the potential tying run on deck.

I think it was in 2004 when Gagne got a save for retiring one batter when he came in with the Dodgers up five, but the bases were loaded and there were two outs.

The really cheap saves are the ones for pitchers who finish games by pitching 3 or more innings. There have been guys getting saves in 15-2 games.

2006-04-24 19:57:51
379.   Greg Brock
See, Grady knows how to take care of his closer

4 run lead, plus Gas Can Carter, equals Save

2006-04-24 19:57:59
380.   natepurcell
from frank's simulation:

Grady Little left Lowe in to pitch the 8th inning and after giving up a run was relieved by Saito who promptly gave up a three run homer to Lance Berkman who tied the score up at 4-4.

Lol, thats funny.

anyways, carters gets DFA by may 15th.

2006-04-24 19:58:22
381.   overkill94
I know there are some people out there who think Lance Carter is valuable...

...and those people are Baez's fantasy owners.

2006-04-24 19:59:06
382.   gcrl
381
and i am one of them
2006-04-24 19:59:44
383.   A Slo
But don't they give out saves for pitchers who close out 3 run leads even without a runner on base when they come in? In that case, the tying run isn't on deck.
2006-04-24 20:00:35
384.   Greg Brock
3 runs or less, or tying run on deck. That's it...That's the list.
2006-04-24 20:00:49
385.   overkill94
Booyah Baez!
2006-04-24 20:00:50
386.   Bob Timmermann
One full with a lead of 3 or less is one criterion.
Tying run on deck is another.
3 or more innings to end the game is the third.
2006-04-24 20:01:06
388.   Curtis Lowe
WoooooHoooooo!!
2006-04-24 20:01:16
389.   Bob Timmermann
386
One full inning ...
2006-04-24 20:01:29
390.   jasonungar05
well that was rad, best game of the year
2006-04-24 20:01:38
391.   natepurcell
gaemez over!
2006-04-24 20:01:41
392.   oldbear
Baez and Carter must be in cahoots.
2006-04-24 20:02:14
393.   overkill94
384 Or the one Bob said, at least 3 innings pitching effectively to end a win.
2006-04-24 20:02:22
394.   Uncle Miltie
anyways, carters gets DFA by may 15th.
Not going to happen. Ned won't admit that trading for the all star was a bad move.
2006-04-24 20:02:31
395.   Greg Brock
Wow, three innings for the save. When was the last time we saw that (tears up thinking of Goose Gossage).
2006-04-24 20:02:48
396.   A Slo
Thanks Bob, got it now.
2006-04-24 20:02:59
397.   gcrl
392
just like worm and mike mcd...
2006-04-24 20:04:28
398.   Jon Weisman
New post up top.
2006-04-24 20:04:39
399.   overkill94
387 You're right, just looking at that line-up makes me shiver in terror. There is no better cleanup hitter in the majors than Mike Piazza.

Wait, it's 1996 right?

2006-04-24 20:04:47
400.   Curtis Lowe
PLease See comment 169.
Show/Hide Comments 401-450
2006-04-24 20:08:42
401.   Paul B
Great game.

OT: Baseball Tonight, a Paraphrase. Really:

Harold: Hitters play differently when great pitchers are pitching, because they have the mentality that they don't need to score a lot of runs. This explains why Clemens got such little run support last year.

John Kruk: It's easier to score runs when you've got a great pitcher on the mound because you don't press.

Steve Phillips: Sometimes a great pitcher is just too good, he gets his guys out of their rhythm because he is blowing the other team away so efficiently. This makes it harder for the offense to score runs.

Why do I watch these guys?

2006-04-24 20:14:03
402.   Nick Iyengar
Not sure if someone mentioned this...it's very early, but Matt Cain is having a special game against the Mets so far.
2006-04-24 20:14:28
403.   Gen3Blue
Whoops! fell asleep watching the game what a way to wake up. 307 and all BOOYAAH!!!
2006-04-24 20:18:07
404.   Jon Weisman
377 - Gee, Molly, that was unduly harsh on Dreifort. In one game alone, Dreifort homered twice and I believe went six or so innings for the win.
2006-04-24 21:09:51
405.   Sam DC
401 Perfectly rendered, and so aggravatingly true.
2006-04-24 21:48:22
406.   MollyKnight
404- Was one of those homers a grand slam?!?!

I am hard on Dreifort. I know he's a good kid, and that he just caught a string of bad breaks, but the man got paid $63.9 million to win 48 career games.

But anyway, yay Nomar! Weeeeeeee!!!

2006-04-24 22:05:03
407.   Jon Weisman
406 - Yeah, I understand we need shed no tears for Dreifort ... it just seemed like a long way to go to take a shot at him - and of all the shots to take, it wasn't even fair.

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