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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

Save Friday Night Lights - Now
2009-01-14 22:19
by Jon Weisman

Friday Night Lights concluded its third season tonight, two nights before it started its third season. Thirteen episodes have aired to a small audience on DirecTV over the past four months, and now the same 13 will air on NBC beginning Friday.

That Friday Night Lights had a third season at all was a miracle - its split deal with the satellite company and the network was a Hail Mary unprecedented in television history. Given that a piece of its diehard audience will have already seen the final season before NBC begins airing it, given that this is already considered a dead show walking, it's hard to imagine ratings will improve enough to justify a fourth season.

But I have to tell you, the fourth season would be worth it. The past 13 episodes marked a return to form for Friday Night Lights, an improvement over the good-but-flawed second season, and the final two episodes ranked with the very best in series history, not only providing a catharsis, but also setting the stage for future storylines that could be among the most interesting the show has had. And while some characters will have moved on, there is still a healthy core that would have legitimate reasons to return and grow.

Granting that this is a quixotic quest, I am taking the time to point out that if there is to be a campaign to save Friday Night Lights, it has to start now. NBC and DirecTV will likely make their decision about the fate of the series long before the season ends.

For those of you who haven't seen the show, I urge you to take the time to a) watch one of the first-season episodes via DVD, iTunes or any other means you can find, and/or b) jump right into the third season this Friday. (And give it a fighting chance - don't watch with one hand on the remote, ready to flip to something else. Watch at least a full episode, if not more.)

For those who have already been watching, start recruiting friends, acquaintances, strangers and enemies to watch now. Start your e-mail and Internet campaigning now.

It's not just a football show. It's a show that truly has something for everyone. I love it. My wife loves it. My in-laws were blown away by it. This is not a show that is overstaying its welcome. This is a show that knows, better than ever, what it's doing. Don't be someone who discovered the show after it was too late, like the Johnny-come-latelies on Freaks and Geeks, Arrested Development or My So-Called Life.

Keep Friday Night Lights alive. And start now.

Comments (278)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2009-01-14 22:29:00
1.   Bob Timmermann
Is this a:
1) request
2) order
3) demand
4) threat
5) suggestion
2009-01-14 22:30:35
2.   Jon Weisman
1 If I said it was a 2), 3) or 4), would anyone pay attention? Do I have that kind of kashay?
2009-01-14 22:39:24
3.   Bob Timmermann
2
I would listen. I'm highly suggestible.
2009-01-14 22:40:40
4.   Jon Weisman
3 - But you're also the already converted.
2009-01-14 22:42:59
5.   Bob Timmermann
At least you reminded me to set my DVR for Friday night.
2009-01-14 22:46:11
6.   tjdub
Just finished watching tonight's episode and I can't imagine another series finessing an uncertain future any better. If it's over, it has ended on an amazing high. If by the grace of the Nielsen gods it returns, next season holds so much promise.

0 I would simply add that even those who have been able to watch on DirecTV this season, watch it again on Friday nights. If any show is worth a quick turnaround second viewing it's this one.

2009-01-14 22:48:37
7.   Jon Weisman
5 - Oh, good. So I do have a special purpose!
2009-01-14 22:55:42
8.   Eric Stephen
Jon, you've convinced me. I'll jump into season 3 Friday, and hopefully play catch up later. I started 24 the same way (started with season 5) and it was all still great.

I am soon to be a Johnny come lately to Freaks and Geeks though. Those DVDs will be in the mail soon.

But I watched Arrested Development from day one, so ha!! :)

2009-01-14 23:03:38
9.   the OZ
Does anyone have any experience in running a campaign to save a TV show? Because I don't know where to start.

What a great show. Matt and Julie are among my two favorite TV characters of all-time.

2009-01-14 23:07:03
10.   GoBears
Someone mentioned the new Chone Figgins contract in the last thread. I point you to a thread from last August. See esp. comment 56.

https://dodgerthoughts.baseballtoaster.com/archives/1098180.html

That snapshot comparison between Pierre and Figgins still freaks me out. It's like someone invented the example to show the value of walks. The two guys had the same number of ABs, Hits, 2bs, 3bs, HRs, and hence AVG and SLG. The only difference in their 2008 performances to that point was walks: 47 for Figgins, 18 for Pierre, which meant 50 pts of OBP.

Freaky, I tells ya.

2009-01-14 23:13:28
11.   Tripon
10 No way the Yankees pick up Texiera, C.C., and Manny in the same off season. - referring to post 623.

Well, I was sorta right. Yeesh.

And the Figgins vs. Pierre talk starts at post 44 in that thread if you want to look.

2009-01-14 23:15:47
12.   trainwreck
8
Wait, wait, wait. You started with Season 5 of 24 and you like the show?
2009-01-14 23:25:06
13.   CanuckDodger
I'll be watching Friday Night Lights on NBC, but since I am Canadian, NBC won't care. How little do the US networks care about Canadians? I think this story says something: a number of years ago, ABC tried to bar Canadians from their presentation at the summer TV critics press tour, but American critics told ABC execs that if the Canadian members of the TV Critics Association weren't allowed at the presentation, nobody else from the association would be attending either, so ABC could go ahead and give their presentation to an empty room. ABC did a little rethink about their position on the matter.
2009-01-14 23:28:25
14.   Eric Stephen
12
I started with season 5, and I was hooked within the opening 5 minutes with Cerrano's demise. I was completely caught up roughly midway through the 5th season.
2009-01-14 23:38:33
15.   mintxcore
I started with season 4 of the Wire and season 4 of Sopranos. I will try to give FNL a shot this Friday!
2009-01-15 00:02:28
16.   trainwreck
14
I had the exact opposite reaction to season 5. : )
2009-01-15 00:10:03
17.   scooplew
Thanks for the heads-up on Friday Night Lights. It is truly a remarkable show, and I am looking forward to watching the third season. It is one of the finest series I have ever watched, and I go back to the days of Captain Video, Omnibus, and Kukla, Fran and Ollie.
2009-01-15 02:27:06
18.   kensai
People don't really seem to like quality shows nowadays.

Networks have found it cheaper and more profitable to just go with Deal Or No Deal all week. :o

2009-01-15 04:41:09
19.   dianagramr
RIP Ricardo Montalban ...
2009-01-15 06:28:56
20.   Howard Fox
7 so did Steve Martin in "The Jerk"
2009-01-15 06:53:11
21.   Terry A
20 - You mean I'm gonna stay this color?
2009-01-15 06:53:56
22.   Daniel Zappala
2 kashay? Have you been possessed by a certain commenter?
2009-01-15 06:56:06
23.   MyTummyHurts
Nomar & Mia will be on "Kost 103 fm" radio this morning...
2009-01-15 06:59:49
24.   Jon Weisman
20 - Exactly.
2009-01-15 07:10:24
25.   Bluebleeder87
23

There on now you guys...

2009-01-15 07:12:47
26.   Penarol1916
9. Julie is one of your favorite TV characters ever? Really? I hate that character so much, but I think that's because she is such a realistic portrayal of a teenage girl who is such a pain for her parents.
2009-01-15 07:27:50
27.   Bluebleeder87
19

he was on a really cool episode of star trek, RIP paisano.

2009-01-15 07:28:06
28.   Disabled List
I watched FNL pretty regularly during its first season, but not at all during its second. I'll make sure my DVR is set for season three.
2009-01-15 07:34:13
29.   Bob Timmermann
So in Season 3 does Matt shoot and kill a rushing defensive lineman and then Coach Taylor conspires to bury the body under the goalposts and hopes that no one notices?
2009-01-15 07:34:59
30.   Disabled List
Recession + Yankees spending orgy = the inevitable headline:

Some Owners Call for Salary Cap

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3833716

2009-01-15 07:51:09
32.   kinbote
0 I've never seen it, nor any of the other three shows you mentioned (I think my wife used to watch MSCL). I will watch an episode nonjudgmentally and see what happens to me. Can't be worse than reading Bee Thoughts.
2009-01-15 07:56:38
33.   Jon Weisman
31 - edited for spoilers

31. jdbeauchamp
Great show.

2009-01-15 07:57:19
34.   Jon Weisman
By the way, I think Scrubs is on a bit of a rebound this season, but they got color-blindness all wrong in episode three.
2009-01-15 08:01:23
35.   Daniel Zappala
On what basis would NBC decide to renew the show? Do they go solely by Nielsen ratings?
2009-01-15 08:02:10
36.   Jon Weisman
35 - Cost-revenue analysis of which the ratings are a leading indicator. But we're told that FNL is actually not that expensive to film (I don't know why), which has helped it stay alive this long.
2009-01-15 08:02:29
37.   Jon Weisman
36 - Quality, of course, is a minor factor.
2009-01-15 08:07:39
38.   Daniel Zappala
So how many additional viewers would it take to impact the Nielsens? That is, if they poll 1/10,000 viewers, you will need quite a few new viewers to attract their attention.
2009-01-15 08:10:19
39.   Jon Weisman
38 - Yes. I don't really have an answer for you. It's an extreme longshot.
2009-01-15 08:18:27
40.   Ken Noe
Of course the biggest problem that FNL faces is the very same roadblock that Freaks and Geeks and My So Called Life also ran into to: they're set in high school. Honestly, how many people really want to go back to high school once a week? Imagine that we're Jack Bauer, or Manny, or winning a million from Howie Mandel, sure, fine, but dredge up all that half-buried teenage angst again? Nope, and I played high school football.
2009-01-15 08:21:26
41.   Marty
2 Jon coins a new term. Kashay?!?
2009-01-15 08:29:04
42.   Daniel Zappala
It's cachet.
2009-01-15 08:30:49
43.   deburns
the only scripted TV I watch is Meet the Press.
2009-01-15 08:33:20
44.   underdog
Sounds like the Dodgers had made a play/pitch for John Smoltz. Not sure how far that got.

http://www.670thescore.com/pages/3577965.php

2009-01-15 08:33:20
45.   Daniel Zappala
39 Well, yes, it's a longshot, but it's good to know what you're up against. It would take a massive effort to have an effect, so I would plan accordingly if that was my goal.

I also wonder if perhaps networks could take better advantage of technology to get a more accurate assessment of their audience.

2009-01-15 08:35:24
46.   Jon Weisman
40 - If angst stopped after high school, someone forgot to tell the fates running my life.
2009-01-15 08:41:19
47.   Bob Timmermann
I really hope I wasn't spoiling season three in comment 31 . Because that would make me sad.
2009-01-15 08:45:32
48.   Kevin Lewis
Jon, this post is perfect. Every person I have told about FNL has gobbled up the first two seasons in a matter of weeks. There are plenty of people in my family that can't wait for this Friday, and I have it set to record already. Jon, why don't you start a group on Facebook to save FNL...I will join and spread the word.

On another note...I watched a bit of the Lost airing last night, and the way they have spaced out the show has slowly killed some excitement for me. I watched the preview for the premiere, but then I watched a bit last night, and it made me feel tired of the show.

2009-01-15 08:45:34
49.   jdbeauchamp
I guess I was spoiling it in an extremely subtle way.

Sorry about that. I really was trying to be subtle.

Extremely so.

2009-01-15 08:48:46
50.   Ken Noe
46 To be sure, but high school seems to offer a special kind of angst for most. Just typing my other comment brought stuff back. And gee, I liked high school except for that whole knee injury--never play again--proto-Minka Kelly dumped me thing.
Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2009-01-15 08:50:21
51.   Kevin Lewis
50

I wish I had taken baseball more seriously in high school :)

2009-01-15 08:57:21
52.   Terry A
41 & 42 - I thought that word was coined and made famous in the great song "New Orleans Ladies."
2009-01-15 09:01:58
53.   BlueCrew Bruin
30 And our first nominee for "Most Unintentionally Hilarious" line of the day:

"The bleak economy was on the owners' minds as they gathered at an exclusive mountainside resort to begin two days of meetings."

2009-01-15 09:09:29
54.   kinbote
53 Tora Boras?
2009-01-15 09:13:23
55.   ToyCannon
Eric Stephen with the definitive look at the Dodger payroll over the last three years.
http://www.truebluela.com/2009/1/14/720656/dodger-payroll
2009-01-15 09:22:27
56.   SG6
Daily reader of DT, infrequent poster.
I watch very little TV outside of sports, but I must say FNL is on my Tivo List. Just watched the 2nd to last episode last night. This show is well-scripted, perfectly cast and brilliantly acted. All characters are compelling.

Thanks for the post, Jon. Save this show! Who do we email?

2009-01-15 09:26:26
57.   al bundy
It would be a real shame to lose FNL to bad ratings. Among shows on network tv, there's none better. Has there been "knowledgeable conjecture" in the past that TNT, or even HBO or SHO, might acquire it should NBC take a pass? It seems like an ideal candidate for a cable network.
2009-01-15 09:31:44
58.   kinbote
55 Right now, the only reason our payroll/roster is manageable is the cheap productive youngsters. Once they start getting paid--which is starting this year but won't really get going until 2010/2011--we better have another solid group of cheap players ready to help offset their rising costs. I'm worried we don't. On the pitching side, we seem to have enough in sheer volume to suggest that many of our young arms will pan out, but in terms of positional players, we have Lambo, DeJesus, and a lot of question marks. Am I wrong to be concerned about our future or will Ned's departure usher in a new era of good decision-making?
2009-01-15 09:33:11
59.   Jon Weisman
There is a save FNL group on Facebook, but it seems kinda dormant.
2009-01-15 09:35:00
60.   Eric Stephen
59
I think we need to start a Save "Save FNL Facebook Group" Group!
2009-01-15 09:37:15
61.   Kevin Lewis
55

It must feel great to get a raise like Martin, Ethier, and Broxton

2009-01-15 09:39:34
62.   Bob Timmermann
I think that the DirecTV deal was not good for the show. I think that NBC stuck a big label on the series that says "You don't really want to watch this."

It's another sign of TV's unique (and irritating) method of distributing its product among many different distribution systems, each one claiming some degree of "exclusivity" while there is no one source where you can turn to get the programming you want.

"If you have DirecTV, you can see this ..."
"If you have cable, you can see this ..."
"If you have high-speed internet, you can see this ..."
"If you pay iTunes, you can watch this...."
"If you go on to Amazon, you can watch this ..."
"If you ask a college student, they'll just steal it for you from a P2P server."

2009-01-15 09:43:26
63.   Eric Stephen
61
"Like I could totally afford all this cheese!"
2009-01-15 09:49:30
64.   D4P
I liked how the Dodgers gave Andruw Jones a big raise after the worst season of his career.

That was neat.

2009-01-15 09:51:24
65.   Kevin Lewis
59

Well, let's liven it up!

2009-01-15 09:51:25
66.   delias man
LAT Calendar section has an article today about David Faustino's "Star-ving" starting Friday on crackle.com

There was a spoof of a Married... movie on one of the episodes where the original cast was reunited. I am interested.

2009-01-15 09:53:28
67.   Kevin Lewis
The problem is there are 6 "save FNL groups" we need to unionize
2009-01-15 09:54:05
68.   dzzrtRatt
2 , 41 , 42 , 52

On a talk show, Warren Zevon was once asked about his "cachet." He asked "Isn't cachet like panache, except sitting down?"

2009-01-15 09:56:02
69.   underdog
64 They gave him a raise?? Or are you referring to the interest he'll get from the deferred salary?

--

Can someone start a Find Underdog's Cellphone Facebook group? :-( I lost mine yesterday, inexplicably, while doing laundry and couldn't find it while retracing all steps. Posted a sign, posted a thing on Craigslist. Sigh. It's hopeless. So should I suspend my service now, just to make sure no one's using it?

2009-01-15 09:58:31
70.   Bob Timmermann
69
Have you tried calling the number?
2009-01-15 10:00:19
71.   underdog
70 - Yep. That worked the other time I lost my phone. A man answered and said he had the phone. Asked for $20 as a finder's fee. So in a way he was keeping it hostage. But it was worth getting it back. This time no one's answering it, so I assume either no one's found it or they're laying low.

I had to use Skype from my computer to call it since I no longer have a land line. I thought maybe I'd hear it ringing, if it was buried here at home somewhere but no dice.

This is why I can't be allowed to get an iPhone.

2009-01-15 10:02:54
72.   Daniel Zappala
69 Call your cell phone company now and report it stolen. This way they will not charge you for whatever it's being used for.
2009-01-15 10:03:50
73.   delias man
71 The iPhone is too great to lose. Trust me. Tomorrow is our one month anniversary. I am going to surprise it with a gift.
2009-01-15 10:04:21
74.   Eric Stephen
Does anyone know if the Mark Sanchez press conference is anywhere online? It was supposed to start at 10am.
2009-01-15 10:05:49
75.   Eric Stephen
74
Never mind, it's on 710 ESPN right now.
2009-01-15 10:06:15
76.   Eric Stephen
Sanchez is officially gone. Boo.
2009-01-15 10:08:10
77.   Jon Weisman
Funny - my cellphone, my Trusty Treo - some of you might remember the memorable Dodger Thoughts chairlift posting from Colorado - died this morning.
2009-01-15 10:08:26
78.   Icaros
That worked the other time I lost my phone. A man answered and said he had the phone. Asked for $20 as a finder's fee. So in a way he was keeping it hostage. But it was worth getting it back.

He could've done worse with it, but asking for $20 for finding something that isn't yours is what makes people so "great" in my book. If he happened to be homeless or very impoverished, I will hold it against him less.

2009-01-15 10:09:45
79.   Bob Timmermann
77
Did you give the Treo a proper burial with full Dodger Thoughts honors, i.e., a recording of people chanting "HEE! SEOP! CHOI!"
2009-01-15 10:12:20
80.   underdog
78 - Yeah you know, he did seem kind of poor. Not homeless, but definitely someone who could use it, so I was less crabby about it when I met him. But then I got my phone back and saw he'd made a call - 1 call - to LA. Sort of like, "I'm not gonna screw this guy over very much, but have to screw him over a teeny bit at least and get something out of this." Jerkface. Oh well.

I just suspended my service. That way if I get it back, I can unsuspend it, but then I won't, as Daniel said, be charged for any illicit calls.

Sorry about your Treo, Jon.

I loved my Ericsson, darnit! I love my dead, MIA cell phone. (vaguely referencing "Heathers")

2009-01-15 10:18:50
81.   Jon Weisman
Nomo moves into coaching.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/01/15/orix.nomo.ap/index.html

2009-01-15 10:24:18
82.   Kevin Lewis
80

I just can't understand charging someone for that. It takes a special kind of person to have the nerve. I am not perfect by any means, but I would take joy in making someones day by finding their phone.

Anyone with an iPhone or iPod touch, I found an awesome calorie counter app for free the other day. It is called Lose It, and I am really impressed. I just love the accountability of it all.

2009-01-15 10:26:19
83.   overkill94
34 I'd say so far it's better than last season, but still not up to par with seasons 1-6.

The JD/Elliot drama is better when they're subtle about it, not when they have them hashing it out face-to-face.

Plus, they're not going off on nearly enough quirky tangents and the playfulness between JD and Turk is sadly waning.

2009-01-15 10:27:28
84.   dianagramr
73

I had a Compaq Pocket PC and a separate cel phone. Then I fell on the sidewalk one evening, and the Pocket PCs screen cracked.

So ... I splurged for an iPhone ...

This is the first time in a while I feel like one of the "cool kids".

Its amazing how much it can do ... the applications just keep growing and getting better.

2009-01-15 10:29:52
85.   overkill94
80 Do you still have to pay the monthly fee when you suspend your service?

The one time I lost my phone I had Verizon bump me down to the lowest plan for the remainder of my contract to avoid the cancellation fees. It worked out fine until the last month when all of a sudden there were $200 worth of charges (mostly downloads). Luckily, when I called Verizon and explained it to them they refunded all the charges and all was hunky dory.

2009-01-15 10:31:34
86.   Mike Scioscias tragic illness
I've never seen FNL, but I am surprised at the support it has around here. Nearly every review I've read of it says basically the same thing - after an excellent first season, it went straight downhill as it became even less about football and more about a 90210/Gossip Girl "who's sleeping with who" teen sex drama.

I particularly enjoy TMQ on ESPN picking apart the football aspects, especially how they're seemingly down 4 scores, only to win on a dramatic last-second miracle, in at least 70% of the games.

2009-01-15 10:32:37
87.   D4P
I didn't realize until the other day that ABC is showing 2 episodes of "Scrubs" each week. I've only watched the first episode thus far, and wasn't entirely disappointed.
2009-01-15 10:33:17
88.   BlueCrew Bruin
Jon, do you know how much the networks take into account ancillary revenue streams (DVD sales, online viewing, iTunes, etc) when they decide the fate of a tv show? I'm sure the decision is predominantly based on the Nielsons but it seems like that system doesn't really reflect reality any more.

I'm not sure if FNL is in this category but I'm thinking of shows like Arrested Development and Scrubs that are big with a demographic that doesn't have the type of "appointment TV" habits that advertisers are accustomed to. I think Family Guy is the only show I know of that was brought back based on strong DVD sales after it was cancelled.

Anyhow, just curious. Thanks.

2009-01-15 10:33:47
89.   underdog
85 - Probably. I'm checking on that now. No reactivation fee at least. (Thru AT&T)

82 - Yeah the thing that really bugged me about that case, though the guy didn't know it when he picked it up, is that I'd lost it because I'd had a minor bike accident, wiped out on the street, spilled onto sidewalk, on my way home. The phone tumbled out and I was so rattled I didn't pay much attention to that, just wanted to get home. So on top of a bike accident, I lose my phone and then had to pay this guy to get it back. You're right, I would take pleasure in making someone's day, not looking for an "angle." Sigh.

But right now I'd happily pay 20 clams to get this one back.

2009-01-15 10:49:42
90.   Jon Weisman
86 - The reviews said the second season wasn't as good as the first, but also that the first was unmatchable in terms of quality. It wasn't like FNL went the Andruw Jones route. Plus, the reviews also say the third season rebounded well.
2009-01-15 10:50:49
91.   Jon Weisman
88 - Well, the networks don't necessarily make money off all that stuff - much of that goes to the production company or whoever owns those rights.
2009-01-15 11:00:01
92.   Kevin Lewis
90

Man, Andruw Jones will be a great way to refer to the decline of any type of product.

Kind of like pulling a Homer

2009-01-15 11:00:55
93.   Bob Timmermann
Andruw Jones will forever be a metaphor for being really bad.

Every free agent signing will now get held up to the standard "Was he as bad as Andruw Jones?"

It's not a tough hurdle to climb.

2009-01-15 11:03:28
94.   bhsportsguy
93 Don Stanhouse and Dave Goltz will be taken off the hook now.
2009-01-15 11:06:42
95.   Jon Weisman
There was a very subtle Jim Healy reference in 90 .
2009-01-15 11:10:12
96.   bhsportsguy
95 I've got to know.
2009-01-15 11:12:04
97.   Tripon
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft09/news/story?id=3835329

Marc Sanchez entering NFL draft is official.

2009-01-15 11:14:46
98.   kinbote
95 Victor Kiam?
2009-01-15 11:17:55
99.   delias man
82 Thanks for Lose It! That is cool.
2009-01-15 11:18:00
100.   kinbote
Waiting for Andruw Jones' release feels like waiting for a prisoner to get out of jail, except we're the prisoner and he's the jailer. I'm sure several prison metaphors could work in this situation.
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2009-01-15 11:19:26
101.   bhsportsguy
98 Leonard Tose
2009-01-15 11:23:37
102.   Kevin Lewis
99

No problem. I am really impressed with it, and the fact that it was free is awesome.

2009-01-15 11:29:33
103.   JoeyP
Jon, you must be this show's biggest fan. I dont know anyone, nor read anyone on the internet that has liked it.

I caught a bit of it on the DirectV channell and the only thing that stood out to me was that somehow Riggins was still in HS. How can this be? Are they playing Saved by the Bell rules, where HS takes like 7 years to finish?

And another thing - Minka Kelly is still an awful actress.

Anyways, I think the reason why this show hasnt been well received by audiences is bc its trying to duplicate a good book & movie & just cant.

Fictional TV series based around sports have never been very highly rated.

2009-01-15 11:32:25
104.   Jon Weisman
101 - :)

103 - I don't know what Internet you're reading.

2009-01-15 11:34:04
105.   JoeyP
I've never seen FNL, but I am surprised at the support it has around here. Nearly every review I've read of it says basically the same thing - after an excellent first season, it went straight downhill as it became even less about football and more about a 90210/Gossip Girl "who's sleeping with who" teen sex drama.

Exactly, they should renamed the series "Dillon" if it wasnt going to be about football.

The series lost me when they tried to make each episode about a political message/issue (like when coach is accused of racism, etc). Really morphed from an interesting set of storylines (Young QB taking the team to state, Older QB paralyzed)....to a really bad after school special.

2009-01-15 11:38:24
106.   Jon Weisman
105 - I will stop campaigning for your support.
2009-01-15 11:39:35
107.   fanerman
I haven't seen a single FNL episode but I've heard nothing but good things about it. I'll have to netflix it.
2009-01-15 11:53:06
108.   El Lay Dave
Fictional TV series based around sports have never been very highly rated.

Small sample size? Have there been many - esp. on network television? "The White Shadow", "Sports Night", uh, Oscar Madison was a sportswriter.... Probably there were many and I just don't remember them.

2009-01-15 11:55:14
109.   Eric Stephen
108
Don't forget "Just the Ten of Us." :)

Wasn't the dad a basketball coach?

2009-01-15 11:56:27
110.   Harold M Johnson
109 Yeah he was, and I played against the son on that show once in either pony league or early high school, can't remember exactly when.
2009-01-15 12:01:48
111.   tjdub
109 I'll see your "Just the Ten of Us" and raise with "Hang Time"
2009-01-15 12:02:32
112.   Marty
And Brian's Song, the series.

Oh, wait.

2009-01-15 12:02:47
113.   Bob Timmermann
"Ball Four"
"Bay City Blues"
"Everybody Loves Raymond" featured a sportswriter who seemingly never covered sports
"Clubhouse"
"The Waverly Wonders"

Have I watched too much TV in my life? I may have. Do I mind? No. Would I do it again? Yes.

2009-01-15 12:02:51
114.   Kevin Lewis
"Mr. Cooper"?

That doesn't help

2009-01-15 12:03:45
115.   Bob Timmermann
112
And Brian's Song, the series.

Each week, Gale Sayers would be assigned a roommate with a terminal disease. It would be a football version of "Cancer, She Wrote."

2009-01-15 12:06:43
116.   tjdub
There used to be a fair amount of basketball in One Tree Hill. But of course I only know that second-hand. Cuz, you know, who has ever watched that?
2009-01-15 12:10:45
117.   BlueCrew Bruin
Coach!
2009-01-15 12:11:33
118.   bhsportsguy
We may get to see this guy 18 times in 2009.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3835601

2009-01-15 12:13:23
119.   Tripon
Rose writes: "Carroll was visibly unhappy, refusing to sit down for part of the press conference and saying that he disagreed with the decision based on a number of factors. 'We don't see this decision the same,' he said. 'Mark is going against the grain on this decision. He knows that.'

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/

2009-01-15 12:15:31
120.   JoeyP
117- "Coach" was one of my all-time favorite shows. But thats a sitcom/comedy.

Its hard finding a weekly drama based on sports. Maybe there arent many to choose from? The last one I can remember was the one on HBO with the dad from Wonder Years playing an NBA coach. That didnt last very long.

2009-01-15 12:17:49
121.   Tripon
The Bronx is Burning. One of ESPN's better attempts at making a show.
2009-01-15 12:20:46
122.   bhsportsguy
121 I think at best that was a docu-drama, at worst, well it was dramatic television show put on by a sports network.
2009-01-15 12:22:19
123.   dzzrtRatt
108 First of all, if it's perceived to be about sports, you lose most women. In many households, women make the TV-watching decisions.

Secondly, I think the title was strategically off. It sounds like it's supposed to be on Fridays (originally it wasn't), and it also sounds too much like Saturday Night Live, suggesting to some that it might be a comedy/variety show, the kind of show that died 30 years ago. (SNL is a legacy habit of ex-potheads that retains cultural relevance through its political humor.)

Thirdly, the overwhelming number of one-hour dramas that find mass audience are built around intrigue: Crime-solving, fantasy-mystery, or a glimpse into a secret, taboo society.

Thirdly, it's on a bad network. Every good show on NBC struggles because NBC fails overall to attract a desirable audience, so they can't count on lots of people seeing the in-house ads and promotion.

Seems like FNL is most comparable to a show like "Mad Men," which also successfully dramatized a more ordinary existence where there isn't a murder every week.

The difference is, "Mad Men" was always conceived (from a business standpoint) as an artistically respected loss leader that would provide attention and respectability to a flailing basic cable outlet. FNL was going to be judged on the same week-to-week profitability criteria as "The World's Biggest Loser" or "Deal or No Deal." It's a can't-win situation.

If Jon manages to save it, he might want to be on the lookout for a visit from Ned Beatty. He will have violated the forces of nature.

2009-01-15 12:23:59
124.   dzzrtRatt
Oops. Lost count. The second Thirdly should be Fourthly. Or better yet, "Fourth."
2009-01-15 12:26:40
125.   bhsportsguy
120 That may be true but I think its just a question of can you create a storyline and a set of characters that will bring people back to watch it.

Not many people do forensic investigations, try to become a pop star and deal with cranky doctors (okay one out three). But they enjoy certain aspects of those shows to come back and watch again and again.

And while I will not address FNL directly, I also think the reason its difficult in a general sense to dramatize sports is the fact that we have the reality of the games themselves to compare them to.

But that doesn't mean people don't enjoy FNL but its for the characters and stories both on and off the field.

2009-01-15 12:28:29
126.   dzzrtRatt
118 I hope Towers has room in his trophy case. That's a guaranteed World Championship if they sign that guy.
2009-01-15 12:29:07
127.   bhsportsguy
126 You mean like the 2008 Diamondbacks?
2009-01-15 12:31:07
128.   underdog
Now for something completely different:

Star Wars: Retold (by someone who hasn't seen it)
http://vimeo.com/2809991

Cute and funny, and she's not too far off.

2009-01-15 12:46:02
129.   Eric Stephen
Nothing official yet, but this is bad karma for me.

On a day I put up a post calling Andruw Jones the worst free agent signing in history, I find out that not only do I share a weight problem with Andruw (I already knew that) but as of tomorrow afternoon I will share his employment status.

I'm still awaiting word on how my $22.1 million will be paid out though.

2009-01-15 12:48:08
130.   dzzrtRatt
apparently, a US Air jet has crashed into the Hudson River.
2009-01-15 12:48:27
131.   Tripon
129 Yikes!
2009-01-15 12:49:41
132.   Sam DC
129 Oh no!
2009-01-15 12:52:51
133.   Xeifrank
Never watched FNL nor any of the other TV shows or movies talked about here (raise your hand if you're surprised). I have very limited time to devote to watching TV (family, job, yard work, eating, sleeping, reading, cleaning the cat litter box all have higher priority), and place highest priority for TV watching time on the Lakers, Dodgers, Angels etc... That being said good luck to your crusade to keep your favorite TV show alive. I kind of wish The White Shadow would make a comeback.
vr, Xei
2009-01-15 12:56:49
134.   D4P
The plane crash looks relatively unbad. The plane seems to be floating and at least some people are being rescued.
2009-01-15 12:56:51
135.   cargill06
129 Best of luck to you in your future employment ventures.
2009-01-15 12:58:17
136.   D4P
129
Does "True Blue LA" pay a living wage...?
2009-01-15 12:58:31
137.   Howard Fox
123 women make the TV-watching decisions

if that is the case, what is the basis for all the jokes about men and their remotes?

2009-01-15 13:00:53
138.   underdog
Sorry Eric! I hope something comes through for you soon. Maybe the Braves will pick you up, too?

(Actually, the Padres are looking for some power off the bench. That'd be less of a commute.)

--

Speaking of Andruw, apparently Barry Larkin and Harold Reynolds and co. think he still has a lot left and last year was an anomaly. They act like it was just his injury, and the "bright lights of the big city" pressure that did him in last year. Guess they didn't see how he showed up in Spring or how poorly he saw the ball all year or anything else negative.

http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp?mid=200901143744613

2009-01-15 13:03:06
139.   GoBears
137 Like so many things: male delusion.
2009-01-15 13:03:17
140.   LogikReader
129

I am really sorry to hear that, Eric. Of all the people out there, I had hoped none of us DT-ers would be victims.

Unfortunately, no place is safe from the current economy. I hope you stay on your feet and can find another place of employment.

2009-01-15 13:04:45
141.   dzzrtRatt
139 and female propaganda.
2009-01-15 13:05:54
142.   dzzrtRatt
129 Eric, so sorry to hear this. Hope things turn around quickly.
2009-01-15 13:09:37
143.   El Lay Dave
129 Sorry to hear that Eric. Good luck.
2009-01-15 13:10:06
144.   D4P
129
Other than being a source of income (and polo shirts with the company logo), did you like your job?
2009-01-15 13:10:27
145.   KingKopitar
Helene Elliot wrote an article in the LA Times speculating that the next NHL Winter Classic might be at the Rose Bowl. The Winter Classic is on New Year's. I don't think that's an option.

Of course, she later mentions the possibility of playing a game at Dodger Stadium (which would be the greatest day of my life) and then lands this burn about the Winter Classic in Chicago:

"Hell had, indeed, frozen over before the Cubs won the World Series again."

2009-01-15 13:14:29
146.   kinbote
SNL is a legacy habit of ex-potheads that retains cultural relevance through its political humor.

One of the better sentences I've read on DT in a while.

2009-01-15 13:21:04
147.   Jim Hitchcock
129 The unemployment blues won't last long for one Eric Stephen.
2009-01-15 13:26:57
148.   Mike Scioscias tragic illness
This plane went down literally about 300 feet west of my apartment.
2009-01-15 13:27:40
149.   LogikReader
134

An update on the big plane "water landing."

Thankfully, it appears there aren't any serious injuries as of yet, according to the report.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/plane_in_river

George Carlin would have enjoyed my use of the term "Water Landing". But this is a literal one, it doesn't look like any part of the plane broke off.

2009-01-15 13:38:38
150.   Kevin Lewis
The reports are saying everyone is off and only one injury.
Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2009-01-15 13:42:38
151.   Bob Timmermann
I guess the people on the plane actually paid attention to the safety instructions.

Yea!

2009-01-15 13:43:55
152.   Kevin Lewis
Yep, and the pilot deserves a medal
2009-01-15 13:52:20
153.   oshea2002
Sorry Eric, I hope and trust that everything will work out.
2009-01-15 13:53:51
154.   bhsportsguy
Boston avoided arbitration with Kevin Youkilis, agreeing to a four-year contract with the first baseman worth more than $40 million, sources told ESPN's Peter Gammons. The deal includes an option for a fifth year.

Youkilis will be 33 when this initial term is over.

2009-01-15 13:54:59
155.   Disabled List
And just today, we're getting some of the coldest weather in New York since I moved here four years ago. Bad day for a water landing. However, considering they survived a PLANE CRASH, I would hope none of the passengers are complaining about the weather.

That was a hell of a job by the pilot keeping that plane from breaking apart when it hit the water.

2009-01-15 13:56:50
156.   Howard Fox
they should all go out and buy lottery tickets, you can't be any luckier than they are right now
2009-01-15 13:58:39
157.   Bob Timmermann
156
Luckier than Gavin McLeod?
2009-01-15 13:59:06
158.   dkminnick
129 - Best of luck, Eric. I know you'll be fine. I hope your next employer also lets you off to go see heartbreaking Dodger losses. Um, wait....
2009-01-15 13:59:12
159.   Kevin Lewis
Eric, I am sorry to hear the news. I am wondering if that kind of news will be coming my way soon.
2009-01-15 14:01:13
160.   ToyCannon
Since everyone is safe I guess I can ask if Nessman was around since a bird brought it down.
2009-01-15 14:02:33
161.   Xeifrank
155. Is there ice in the river?
vr, Xei
2009-01-15 14:03:32
162.   bhsportsguy
161 I suppose there could be small pieces but they are calling it a "splash landing."
2009-01-15 14:03:44
163.   cargill06
Darn.

According to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic, starter Jon Garland rejected a contract offer from the Diamondbacks. The offer is unknown, but Piecoro believes the D'Backs have about $4MM left to spend this winter.

2009-01-15 14:05:55
164.   Howard Fox
157 you mean Mr Lucky?
2009-01-15 14:06:59
165.   underdog
We won't have Pablo Ozuna around to deride any longer. He's now a Phillie. Or at least a Phillie minor leaguer. I think the Dodgers will survive the loss of Pablo Ozuna.
2009-01-15 14:07:25
166.   LogikReader
154

Man, I don't know how Boston does it. First the great deal with Pedroia, now this excellent move with Youk.

Now, here's the rub:

Pedroia and Youk are only starting out their careers. If they somehow end up becoming league average or worse, I can imagine there's a possibility they overpaid for both.

The odds of that happening: like Chick says, slim and none and none left the building.

2009-01-15 14:10:14
167.   Tripon
166 Youk's kinda screwing himself over with the contract though, he'll be entering free agency when he's 34, instead of 32. Who's going to pay for his 35-39 years at a similar or higher rate for his 32-35 years?
2009-01-15 14:10:35
168.   Xeifrank
163. Garland for anything around $4Mil per year is a steal.
vr, Xei
2009-01-15 14:11:30
169.   Tripon
Old Friend Pablo Ozuna signed with the Phillies on a minor-league contract.
2009-01-15 14:11:53
170.   D4P
Who's going to pay for his 35-39 years at a similar or higher rate for his 32-35 years?

Hint: he wears snakeskin cowgirl boots.

2009-01-15 14:12:39
171.   cargill06
168 I agree with you there. I'd rather have him sign with AZ for $4 than us for $10.
2009-01-15 14:13:13
172.   bhsportsguy
170 So you foresee Ned still being the GM in 2012?
2009-01-15 14:14:34
173.   Tripon
172 a GM. Maybe San Fran wants a Seabean clone after he retires.
2009-01-15 14:15:16
174.   D4P
172
Not necessarily with the Dodgers, but he's of the ilk that most owners seem to prefer, so I don't see why not.
2009-01-15 14:17:22
175.   bhsportsguy
The Dodgers will not have the worst second baseman in the NL West. But the Dodger's won't have one of those gamers that wins either.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3835601

2009-01-15 14:17:51
176.   Xeifrank
171. Well, that's interesting but not plausible. Pick the value you think he's worth and would you rather he sign with the Dodgers or Diamondbacks at that dollar figure over 3 years?
vr, Xei
2009-01-15 14:18:58
177.   Daniel Zappala
129 Eric -- best of luck. I hope you're back on your feet soon.
2009-01-15 14:19:24
178.   Tripon
175 Padres signed Eckstein to play shortstop.
2009-01-15 14:20:27
179.   D4P
MLB Rumours says that Lil' Davie will play 2B.
2009-01-15 14:21:22
180.   Kevin Lewis
175

I like the two comments following the article on Eckstein.

2009-01-15 14:24:01
181.   bhsportsguy
179 As did the article I linked.
2009-01-15 14:27:17
182.   still bevens
180 And to think the first commenter uses the awesome photo of the St Louis 'Get a Brane Morans' sign guy as his avatar. The ironing is delicious.
2009-01-15 14:32:09
183.   Tripon
Anyone think that Ned Coletti survives another year?
2009-01-15 14:35:51
184.   cargill06
183 Yes, it appears the Dodgers will be favored to win the West this year.
2009-01-15 14:36:17
185.   delias man
166 I think Slim left the building.
2009-01-15 14:36:18
186.   Marty
The ironing is delicious

I love it.

2009-01-15 14:37:15
187.   kinbote
183 Instead of thinking about that, I've been wondering when exactly all these free agents will sign. It's crazy.
2009-01-15 14:39:07
188.   trainwreck
Sorry to hear that Eric S, and I wish you the best of luck. Sure you won't need it.

Unfortunately, now you can stay up late and talk to me on DT. ; )

2009-01-15 14:39:08
189.   LogikReader
What normally happens after a plane accident... do airline fares go down or up? Just curious as I plan my next trip to NY and New Yankee Stadium.
2009-01-15 14:40:42
190.   fanerman
185 Yeah that makes more sense.
2009-01-15 14:41:03
191.   cargill06
Hey Xei,

Does this seem like a flawed way of looking at determining value for my fantasy league?

It's a head to head league with the following categories; R,H,HR,RBI,BB,TB,SB,K,AVG,W,L,K,ERA,WHIP,CG,SHO,SV. At the end of the week if you have more runs than the other team you're 1-0, more hits than you're 2-0, etc.

I'm looking at every player compared to the league average projections for the players that figure to get drafted in our league. For example the league average catcher is projected as the following; .280, 57.5 runs, 121.2 hits, 14.0 HR's, 64.5 RBI's, 3.5 SB's, 43.3 BB's, 74.8 K's 192.2 TB's. If you take Martin's projections compared to league average you come out with the following.

(.286/.280)+(80/57.5)+(145/121.2)+(14/14)+(73/64.5)+(16/3.5)+(70/43.3)+ (74.8/80)+ (219/192.2)/9*100= 155

It makes sense in my head but when I actually compute the numbers it just doesn't seem right that the top 3 offensive players come out as; 1. Martin 2. Wright 3. Reyes. Do SB's too heavily skew this?

2009-01-15 14:42:51
192.   Howard Fox
189 the price will go up, it's basic supply and demand, there is one less plane
2009-01-15 14:50:28
193.   mwhite06
191 Didn't Brian Mccann have a much better season (both fantasy and in reality) than Martin last year? Considering they are both about the same age, I can't imagine Martin projects better than McCann unless SB's are in fact heavily skewing your figures.
2009-01-15 14:51:11
194.   JJ42
Best wishes to you Eric. Hopefully, your situation improves quickly. we'll be sending some positive karma your way.
2009-01-15 14:52:32
195.   arborial
183 Anyone think that Ned Coletti survives another year?

Do you mean, Does anyone think that Ned Coletti will get fired after this season?

or, Does anyone think that Ned Coletti will get shot by a Dodger fan before the end of the year?

2009-01-15 14:53:58
196.   underdog
Hey did you hear that David Eckstein is going to be the Padres' SS?

{duck}

And how about that Pablo Ozuna, eh?

---

Btw, I discovered that Mercury is indeed in retrograde. Not a huge believer in Astrology but I am in Mercury in retrograde; all sorts of malfunctions, technological and otherwise, always happen then, and miscommunications and so on. This would explain a great deal of my week.

2009-01-15 14:54:01
197.   cargill06
193 That's what I'm wondering. It looks so obvious that Martin wouldn't be the #1 fantasy catcher let alone #1 fantasy hitter in all of baseball. Does the fact that he's abover average in most categories and well well above average in SB's justify this?
2009-01-15 14:55:50
198.   Kevin Lewis
I would say his SB and BB numbers look really good compared to the average
2009-01-15 14:58:30
199.   D4P
Hey did you hear that David Eckstein is going to be the Padres' SS?

Emphasis on the first S...

2009-01-15 15:00:52
200.   ToyCannon
Jon - Don't know if you caught these changes to the iconic Motion Picture Retirement facility in Woodland Hills.
http://tinyurl.com/965gjh
I drive by every Saturday on the way to the market. Looks like 100 long term residents will need to find another place to live.
Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2009-01-15 15:02:55
201.   Tripon
Pete Carroll is pissed off at Marc Sanchez.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/01/pete-carroll-ma.html

"That's why there's a 62 percent failure rate for underclassmen quarterbacks."

Did he use the same sales pitch on Matt Lineart?

2009-01-15 15:11:14
202.   ToyCannon
The normal Eckstein cricketeers seem to be subdued with their criticism of everything Eckstein. I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact Depo's team signed him instead of Kenny Williams.

The NL West has the weakest group of 2nd baseman I've seen in years. It won't take much for DeWitt to be the best of the group.
Rockies - Barmes or Stewart
Diamondbacks - Felipe Lopez
Padres - Eckstein
Dodgers - DeWitt/Loretta
Giants - Frandsen or Burris

2009-01-15 15:14:39
203.   Xeifrank
191.
1. Figure out what portion of the pool each player has for each stat. Sum these up.
2. Then seperate the players based on position.
3. If your league drafts 12 catchers, each catchers new value is their value minus the least valuable catcher. Repeat and rinse for each position.
4. Sort all players by value at their position.
5. You can then choose to re-calculate on the fly as your draft goes.

vr, Xei

2009-01-15 15:14:42
204.   Jon Weisman
200 - I saw - shocking.
2009-01-15 15:19:35
205.   ToyCannon
The man who was part of some intense conversation as to the playoff roster 25th man configuration has signed with the Phillies.
2009-01-15 15:19:43
206.   cargill06
203 Thanks for taking the time to look at it. I'm a little confused however. Whenever you have a minute could you give an example with numbers? I do better that way. I'll check back to take a loot.
2009-01-15 15:25:27
207.   fanerman
202 I thought there was a normal amount of comments about Eckstein...
2009-01-15 15:30:38
208.   Howard Fox
195 NOT FUNNY
2009-01-15 15:32:24
209.   Howard Fox
205 probably means Ramirez doesn't sign with us as Ozuna was his buddy
2009-01-15 15:34:24
210.   Icaros
209

I think the other worthless middle-infielder was his buddy.

2009-01-15 15:34:48
211.   fanerman
210 Snipes Sr., yes.
2009-01-15 15:36:12
212.   Howard Fox
I seem to recall Manny and Pablo yucking it up constantly
2009-01-15 15:36:38
213.   Xeifrank
206. My fantasy baseball draft software does this exact thing, but it only goes up to 7x7 leagues and it's mostly for Roto format.
http://MLBMockDraftSoftware.blogspot.com/

Your numbers example (all numbers are made up).

HR Pool: 1000
Martin: 10HRs, or .01 percent of pool
SB Pool: 500
Martin: 10SBs, or .02 percent of pool

add up all the .01s and .02s for each hitting category. Let's say Martin is now at .15 after doing so. Now compare Martin to the 11 other catchers (assuming you are drafting 12), Martin's value is .15 minus the value of the 12th ranked catcher. That 12th ranked catcher has the "catcher" replacement level value. Because you can always draft someone of atleast his value. Let's say the RLV at catcher is .02, which makes Martin's value (.15-.02=.13). Do this for every catcher and then do it for every position. Is Martin's .13 greater than the difference between David Wright (or whoever the highest ranked 3B is) and the replacement level third baseman? So basically, a player is as valuable as the difference between his raw value and the raw value of the replacement level player at his position. For example, if the 12 catchers all have the same stats/same value, they will all be replacement level and can be drafted last. This is what my draft software does, but it's not exactly geared towards a league with your extreme number of categories.
vr, Xei

2009-01-15 15:37:03
214.   GoBears
210. Kent? I doubt it.

(Yeah, I know you meant Berroa.)

2009-01-15 15:38:32
215.   Kevin Lewis
213

Holy cow...this is why I get spanked in Fantasy baseball

2009-01-15 15:40:39
216.   underdog
I feel like I've been posting in a vacuum here. Hello? {taps microphone} Anyone here? Echo...echo...echo...
2009-01-15 15:40:45
217.   Icaros
212

Pretty sure that was Berroa, but same difference.

2009-01-15 15:43:02
218.   cargill06
213 Makes sense. The pool number you came up with is the expected number total for every player in the league? Using your example 1,000 HRs is the HR total of every drafted player in the league?
2009-01-15 15:44:15
219.   Eric Stephen
Hey everyone, thanks for the best wishes! I finally got official word, and my final day will be today, as our office is shutting down, rather abruptly (I'm in commercial real estate).

I have some irons in the fire, so hopefully I will get back to it shortly.

2009-01-15 15:45:41
220.   Icaros
219

Didn't know you were a blacksmith. That's awesome.

2009-01-15 15:46:09
221.   fanerman
Good luck Mr. Stephen!
2009-01-15 15:47:13
222.   El Lay Dave
202 I felt compelled to research that one. Jeff Kent eliminates a lot of recent years of course, and while he was with Houston, Ray Durham and/or Mark Loretta were good. Joe Morgan covers the start of divisions through 1982. There's always at least one good 2B every other year.

1996 comes somewhat close.

Dodgers - Delino's worst year
Giants - Steve Scarsone and a shot Robby Thompson
Padres - Jody Reed
Rockies - Eric Young, but he did have a 98 OPS+
Diamondbacks - did not exist

2009-01-15 15:47:48
223.   Kevin Lewis
Good luck, Eric. I hope the day is as smooth as possible.
2009-01-15 15:50:40
224.   still bevens
Is Andruw Jones released yet or what...?
2009-01-15 15:52:31
225.   Xeifrank
218. 1000 is for every drafted player. You can use the non drafted players too, it just adds a few more steps to get to your pool of stats above replacement. By assuming the players who get drafted, you already start with your pool of stats above replacement. Things also get a little complicated for players that qualify at multiple positions and for the DH/Util position all hitters get lumped together.
vr, Xei
2009-01-15 15:56:50
226.   Kevin Lewis
224

I know...for some reason it is worrying me

2009-01-15 15:58:10
227.   underdog
Maybe we traded him to the Phillies for Pablo Ozuna.
2009-01-15 15:58:12
228.   kinbote
224 He's currently in a helicopter circling Dodger Stadium and as soon as the guards are ready, the ceremony will begin. (The fireworks also have to be set up.)
2009-01-15 15:59:16
229.   LogikReader
I just noticed there is a hockey-reference to go along with b-r.com and pf-r.com.

Look at the win probability for tonight's Red Wings/Kings game. We suck!

2009-01-15 16:06:04
230.   Kevin Lewis
The Red Wings could pull an Andruw
2009-01-15 16:18:12
231.   Sam DC
I guess I'm in kind of a dark mood because both 192 and 228 had me laughing.
2009-01-15 16:22:14
232.   Kevin Lewis
192 made me laugh, and then I felt shame :)
2009-01-15 16:28:23
233.   goofus
Obviously I have no experience or insights on running a baseball team, but I find it hard to believe that the best deal the Dodgers could make was to pay Andruw his full salary and release him. Surely there are teams out there who would have picked up five or six million of his salary in a trade, or sent us a relief pitcher or something for him. The only explanation I can see is that they don't have the money to send with him or simply give him ten million and his release, letting him shop himself around to whatever team is willing to pay him the most.
2009-01-15 16:32:55
234.   Jim Hitchcock
228 Wow, they're going to shoot him down?
2009-01-15 16:33:32
235.   underdog
233 - Why do you assume there are teams that would have picked up that much of his salary in a trade? It seemed pretty clear to the Dodgers that no one was interested.
2009-01-15 16:33:35
236.   Xeifrank
233. Perhaps deferring the payment over the next X years was the big incentive for the Dodgers.
vr, Xei
2009-01-15 16:36:58
237.   goofus
Is his release like a waiver release? If so, then there is a pecking order on who can claim him; If so, it might have been worth something to someone to have first shot at him.
2009-01-15 16:41:59
238.   Jon Weisman
So, keeping in mind that I'm on Verizon Wireless and can't get the iPhone, what would you recommend for a phone with the best possible web browser?
2009-01-15 16:45:08
239.   ToyCannon
236
Seems to me that was the only incentive. Not that I'm suggesting the Dodgers have cash flow problems.
2009-01-15 16:47:01
240.   Kevin Lewis
238

I would go with the Blackberry Storm

2009-01-15 16:53:04
241.   Kevin Lewis
Is it true that the iPhone will eventually be available to more carriers?
2009-01-15 16:55:36
242.   underdog
238 Get one that you can chain and lock to your belt. :-/

But anyway, what about the LG-10000?

2009-01-15 17:01:25
243.   Indiana Jon
238 The HTC Touch Pro is the best phone currently available with a US carrier. Plus, unlike the IPhone or Blackberry, it is fully customizable.
2009-01-15 17:09:46
244.   scareduck
240 - not:

http://6-4-2.blogspot.com/2008/11/tech-blackberry-storm-review.html

2009-01-15 17:09:57
245.   Xeifrank
So who will QB for USC next year? Do they have any good replacements waiting in the wings for Sanchez? I'm sure Bob is hoping that Jimmy Clausen transfers to USC. Clausen needs to play for a better team if he has any NFL hopes. Perhaps he could transfer back to Oaks Christian where he was already playing against younger aged players his last two years there.
vr, Xei
2009-01-15 17:15:25
246.   Bob Timmermann
245
In Jimmy Clausen's eyes, the UH defense looked to be about as tough to read as Fillmore's.
2009-01-15 17:18:45
247.   scareduck
241 - unfortunately, AT&T extended their exclusive agreement through 2010:

http://www.electronista.com/articles/08/08/01/apple.lock.to.att.in.2010/

2009-01-15 17:19:31
248.   Jacob Burch
241 It 'already is.' Not in the legit market, of course, and not something I'd recommend to non-phone-philes. I wouldn't expect an actual offering--in US, anyways--for at least a year or so.

Rob's notes on ATT service are absolutely correct, although I've had rare luck with the few times I've had to work with them per my iPhone. It helps that for anything technical I can go to the Apple store. Dealing with them regarding an old internet account, on the other hand, was nightmarish.

Since my iPhone had some water problems earlier I need to take it in to see if it tripped the sensors. It's working alright now after a blowdry recovery, but I need to know if I should shell out for Applecare or not for another year of protection.

2009-01-15 17:20:20
249.   underdog
Jim Schwartz is the latest victim to be chewed up by the Detroit Lions Industrial-Coaching Complex. May the Schwartz be with him!
2009-01-15 17:20:27
250.   Bob Timmermann
It's no longer all over except for the shouting.

There's been shouting.

http://tinyurl.com/9s7ayh

This is not unlike August 9, 1974. I apologize for my Rule 5 violation.

Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2009-01-15 17:20:54
251.   D4P
Depo on Eckstein:

David is a true grinder who is a very tough out and does all the little things well - a great example for our younger players

Put...down...the...Koolaid...Paul...

2009-01-15 17:26:17
252.   Howard Fox
238 Jon, I have verizon also and I have the LG Voyager. Seems to work well for me. There may be a newer version of that out now.
2009-01-15 17:28:12
253.   D4P
250
Does this mean Juan Pierre is now #3 on the outfield depth chart...?
2009-01-15 17:29:30
254.   Dodgers49
Braves appear reluctant to sign Andruw

>> While Jones would obviously welcome the opportunity to once again play in his adopted hometown of Atlanta, there are plenty of reasons why the Braves appear reluctant to grant this wish, even if they would only have to provide him the Major League minimum salary of $400,000.

If the Braves were to extend Jones a Major League contract, they would be forced to remove a player from a 40-man roster that is at its max now that Derek Lowe has signed his contract. <<

## This doesn't rule out the possibility that Jones could find himself back in the Braves organization. But all indications are that he would have to sign a Minor League contract to afford himself this opportunity to be reacquainted with the club that developed and employed him from 1993-2007. ##

%% Because Jones ended up hitting just .158 with three homers and a .249 slugging percentage in 75 games for the Dodgers, the contract will long be considered one of the worst in the history of professional sports. %%

http://tinyurl.com/7qyo95

2009-01-15 17:30:24
255.   D4P
the contract will long be considered one of the worst in the history of professional sports

I'm guessing Andruw and his agent are quite pleased with it.

2009-01-15 17:37:17
256.   Bumsrap
202 I think second base might belong to either Hu or Abreu next year with DeWitt at third and Blake in left.
2009-01-15 17:38:59
257.   Bumsrap
255 - If you are saying the worst is also the best, depending on perspective, I fully agree with you.
2009-01-15 17:40:00
258.   D4P
257
Yes, that's pretty much what I'm saying.
2009-01-15 17:40:10
259.   overkill94
251 I doubt he truly believes that. What else are you supposed to say when your team's broke and the best you can do is sign a below-average middle-infielder as your big free agent splash?
2009-01-15 17:42:33
260.   D4P
259
I wish he woulda pointed to Eckstein's pretty decent Fangraph Value stats.
2009-01-15 17:43:42
261.   Dodgers49
Andruw might be option for Braves

>> In a radio interview Thursday with Atlanta's AM-790, Jones indicated he's not interested in a minor-league deal. <<

http://tinyurl.com/9q9xn5

2009-01-15 17:43:56
262.   dagwich
Hi there, I'm a longtime DT reader and very infrequent poster -- family, job, east coast life. Anyway, the wife and I are coming to LA on Saturday and I'd like to take a little trip down memory lane and visit some of my old haunts in LA. So I hope you guys can supply a little local updated (since the mid 70s)information.

1. I want to visit the Grand Central Market. Any recommendations where to eat? Where to park? I don't suppose there's anything like free parking anymore downtown but where is reasonably priced parking for a few hours?
2. I hear there's train in LA now! Should we take that downtown (we're staying in WLA)? Is there parking at the train stations?
3. Is the Pantry still OK? Phillipe's? Many a good meal memory from those places.
4.Looking for really great no-frills ethnic food that we can't really get here in North Carolina -- Vietnamese, Cambodian, even Chinese. I hear the San Gabriel Valley is the hotspot for great value. Recommendations?

That's enough for now. Thanks in advance. My cousin is taking us to McCabe's (another old haunt) on Saturday.

Oh, go Dodgers. My $$ contribution to the Dodger corporate machine is the $5 purchase of Dodger flip flops at TJ Maxx the other day. That should help lessen the pain of the 'druw boo boo.

2009-01-15 17:44:18
263.   D4P
Jones indicated he's not interested in a minor-league deal

Nor should he be. He's gonna get paid no matter what he does.

2009-01-15 17:44:35
264.   regfairfield
Considering the Padres other options, doing the little things well is really all you need to sell Eckstein.
2009-01-15 17:49:44
265.   Dodgers49
Andruw Jones officially released by Dodgers

>> Andruw Jones was unconditionally released by the Dodgers today, officially ending his miserable tenure with the team. <<

http://tinyurl.com/6wsm88

2009-01-15 17:50:09
266.   D4P
My $$ contribution to the Dodger corporate machine is the $5 purchase of Dodger flip flops at TJ Maxx the other day

On 15-501...?

2009-01-15 17:54:57
267.   dagwich
266 Yup
2009-01-15 17:55:44
268.   Marty
262 There's no train from the west side yet. Come back in 2020 or thereabouts, so I would drive to downtown. Downtown is starting to transform into a decent destination for food. Phillipe's is still there and I recommend it. The pantry is still there and I don't, though it's nothing horrible. For lunch, try The Nickel Diner on Main between 5th and 6th. Grand Central is still going strong. Ana Maria's is my favorite there for tacos and burritos.

If you can, make room for Langer's in MacArthur Park for pastrami.

Dozens of great Chinese places in the SGV. Sea Harbor, Elite, or 888 Seafood for dim sum, Noodle House, Kingburg Kitchen for dumplings, Mei Long Village, J&J for Shanghai.

East Hollywood has turned into Thai Town. Sapp's coffee shop has great noodles.

Unfortunately, I can't make any personal recs for the west side as I rarely get out there.

2009-01-15 18:02:40
269.   Icaros
Man, we certainly didn't have "sexting" in my day.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28679588

2009-01-15 18:06:12
270.   dagwich
268 Perfect, thanks. Is Canter's still the Edwin Jackson of delis....occasionally brilliant but wildly inconsistent?
2009-01-15 18:10:44
271.   Dodgers49
Dodgers cut ties with Jones

>> Jones becomes a free agent. The Dodgers had two weeks to drum up a trade and spoke to at least two clubs this week, but nothing materialized.

In a statement issued by the club, general manager Ned Colletti said efforts to find a trade partner were unsuccessful. <<

http://tinyurl.com/9s7ayh

2009-01-15 18:12:19
272.   Marty
That pretty much describes Canter's.
2009-01-15 18:12:22
273.   Icaros
My offer to Colletti would have been: "We'll take Jones if you throw in McDonald and DeWitt with him."
2009-01-15 18:13:53
274.   Eric Enders
"the contract will long be considered one of the worst in the history of professional sports."

Yes. And the funny thing is, it's not even close to being the worst contract among current Dodgers.

2009-01-15 18:16:56
275.   trainwreck
269
Seems silly to charge them with a crime.
2009-01-15 18:18:46
276.   Icaros
275

Yes, I've never heard of the person being charged with distributing child porn also being the subject of the child porn being distributed.

2009-01-15 18:19:56
277.   Daniel Zappala
Jon, if it were me and I needed to access the web a lot, I would ditch Verizon, even if I took a hit, switch to AT&T, and get an iPhone. It's so far beyond the competition, it's not even in the same picture.
2009-01-15 18:22:19
278.   Dodgers49
From Tony Jackson:

Andruw Jones released

>> Frank McCourt did confirm after today's tour/photo op at the new spring-training complex that team officials did discuss the possibility of trying to void the contract sometime last season -- he wouldn't say when, but it was obvious he was talking about mid-summer -- but that the decision was made not to proceed. <<

http://tinyurl.com/9go8hu

2009-01-15 18:24:30
279.   Jon Weisman
NPUT

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