Quentin, Crede Come Through in the Clutch
by The Cheat on Apr 25, 2008 12:59 AM CDT
in White Sox Game Recaps
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PrintThis one had all the makings of the White Sox first 3-game losing streak of the season. Gavin Floyd had a third inning that evoked images of Javy's second inning earlier this week. He didn't seem to want anything to do with the strike zone, and would stake the Yankees to an early 3-0 lead. And then the rains came.
Thank god they came. For the series the White Sox seemed unable to push runs across against the Yankees starter, or the two aces at the end of the Yankees pen. But the rain knocked Yanks starter Phil Hughes out of the game, and gave the Sox offense a crack at the ass end of their bullpen.
Sure enough, the Sox rolled up another big inning, 5 runs in the 4th off Ross Ohlendorf (pronounced Nick Masset). It would have been 6 if not for a would-be Alexei Ramirez triple finding the right field seats resulting in a ground rule double and Carlos Quentin on 3rd base. The Gentleman Masher later added a Walloped Tater to finish the Sox scoring against the spare parts of the Yankee pen.
Floyd would take his lead and generally pitch well. But much like Javy on Wednesday, the Yankees mounted a lightning quick 2-out rally to cut the lead to one and make it a battle of the bullpens for the remaining 3 innings.
You can tell that Ozzie is still trying to get used to his new bullpen. I've yet to criticize Ozzie's bullpen usage this season in part for the same reason.
- Bobby Jenks is the closer
- Boone Logan is the top lefty
- Scott Linebrink is the top set-up man
All other roles are up for grabs, and any move to call on the remaining 4 members can be called into question in a tight game. With the Yankees running out a predominantly left-handed lineup, Ozzie tried to steal an inning with Matt Thornton, but a 2-out single and a walk forced Ozzie to call on Linebrink with the right-handed Morgan Ensberg due up. You know how that worked out.
Ozzie then tried to get multiple innings out of Logan, in part because he breezed through his first inning of work and, as is becoming quite redundant, because the Yankees lineup is littered with lefties. But when Logan had trouble getting his second out in the 9th, Ozzie made the call for the big man, a move we've begged for constantly on this blog. Even DJ tried to convince Hawk why it's in the Sox best interest to have their best reliever on the mound in the highest leverage situation. He didn't put it like that, but at least he's trying.
Jenks coaxed a double play out of Jorge Posada, and looked like he would be available to go in the 10th. The two resident ManCrushes of this site had other ideas.
With one out and Joba Chamberlain locked on cruise control, Quentin, who was in the midst of a terrible night at the plate, battled to get a bit a hanger, which he was able to rope for a double off the left field wall. Four pitches later, Joe Crede, who you might have heard is clutch, buckled his knees and poked a flat 1-2 slider into center field for the game winning single.
I don't want to overstate the importance of a single game, but if that game ends in a loss the last week plus would have had a very 2007-like feel to it. Avoiding the sweep, putting up a fight even when the bullpen blows a lead; this is a different team. I can't say they're a great team, or even a team that will stick around for the rest of the season in the AL Central, but at least they're better, more entertaining, than last season.
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Just a thought, wanted to gauge people's reaction
If CQ had just singled in the ninth, would Ozzie have put Ozuna in to try and swipe second? I hate to admit this, but that would have been a good spot for Owens, and would be the exact reason I would want him on the team.
I know speed is overblown, but in my hypothetical situation it makes sense. Plus JO wouldn’t have looked quite so brutal chugging around third.
Maybe not even JO, but having someone on the pine that can swipe a bag when it must be swipe-ed could be important. Fortunately for us CQ is beginning to hit some doubles!
"I'll bring the awesome." -The 'Swish'
Yes, that would have been a great situation for Owens to be on the roster for...
but honestly, how often is that scenario going to play out?
Game four of every world series I've ever seen the Pale Hose in!
"I'll bring the awesome." -The 'Swish'
I don't think Owens being on the roster for such a scenario...
is worth the risk of Ozzie giving him more and more playing time. Even with Dye out with a groin, I would rather see more of Ramirez or Anderson in CF.
Can Bourgeois swipe a bag?
3 for 3 in Charlotte this season. He could be our next Willie Harris!
"I'll bring the awesome." -The 'Swish'
Why not?
I take umbrage with that recap. sips glass of irradiated water
In all seriousness; that image is priceless.
by explodingpinwheelsforfunandprofit on Apr 25, 2008 1:13 AM CDT reply actions
If The Gentleman Masher catches on
I would die happy. It doesn’t take much.
Between this and WordUpThome, I’m pretty sure hanging out with the real Thome would be a drag.
Never trust a big butt and a smile.
Sox Machine
It's Going Viral, Baby
You better trademark it ASAP.
by explodingpinwheelsforfunandprofit on Apr 25, 2008 1:29 AM CDT up reply actions
Jim, I only hope this works out for you.
It’s a small dream, but a good one.
dude, that was totally not swish you saw on rush street last night. swish was at home playing xbox.
I was all over this a few days ago -
it deserves to go national. And the baseball card is a great complement. Wondrously creative. It’d be nice for Jim to appear on Oprah again.
Internet, work your magic.
I took the "under".
A picture of Thome with a Photoshopped handlebar moustache...
Yeah, greatest thing I have ever seen. I will be able to die a happy man now.
I know, I know
It is a little odd to actually have fun watching baseball. I just haven’t quite gotten a hang of knee-jerk rage, repeating myself to the point where people can predict what I’m going to say and condemning the characters of ballplayers because they’re not living up to my expectations.
Never trust a big butt and a smile.
Sox Machine
I know - it's better to rehash old grudges
with team roster selection/positioning/performance than to create something fun or funny.
That’s gonna be one humorless kid in a few months. Ever seen “Mr. Scrooge”?
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions
I love it Sox Machine - keep up the good work!
Working a corporate job, Photoshop has saved my ass on more than a few occasions.
Who ever came up with the Juan Uribe swinging the big turkey leg…pure genius! Can someone please come up with a Photoshop of Paulie with a fridge on his back? Sweet.
Question to Jorge Posada…Where’s your double noooooooooooow? Hah!
"We're gonna bring it all day, everyday...we're gonna keep grinding it out." - Nick Swisher (4/1/08)
My pride and joy
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y34/colintj/juanloveschickencopy.jpg>
dude, that was totally not swish you saw on rush street last night. swish was at home playing xbox.
Really?
How can someone hate on the Gentleman Masher picture, it’s great.
by Grinder in Training on Apr 25, 2008 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions
that was hilarious
i can’t believe how humorless you are sometimes
dude, that was totally not swish you saw on rush street last night. swish was at home playing xbox.
After the game, Konerko said the following to a reporter...
“Bats, they are sick. I cannot hit curveball. Straightball I hit it very much. Curveball, bats are afraid. I ask Jobu to come, take fear from bats. I offer him cigar, rum. He will come.”
I think I would rather see Konerko strike out looking...
than watch him whiff at another curveball like he did tonight. That was ugly.
I only saw bits and pieces of the game
Any time he wants to start coming out of this slump, I’ll be ready
"I'll bring the awesome." -The 'Swish'
Konerko did this last April, too
Players with Konerko’s skills are guys who generally don’t age well, right? I ask because you see a good amount of people (I’m not sure if it SouthSideSox is included in this) talk about Konerko’s 2007 as a down year, but I’d expect that to be the norm for the next three seasons (this year included). The argument about Dye was a little different, as he was battling a couple of different injuries last year, but I never heard that anything was physically wrong with PK. Plus, Dye is a bit better of an athlete than Konerko is.
What are the rules, again, for picking up a guy like Dan Johnson? Would the Sox have to keep him on the 25-man or just on the 40-man? As larry mentioned, not only would he be nice insurance if PK completely fell off the table, but he’d also a nice bench bat (although with his defensive limitations, I don’t know if he’d necessarily be a great bench player—at least in the way Ozzie would need him to be).
I think
At least in the Sox’s eyes, (not that I have any way of knowing) that Fields is now the Konerkinsurance.
"I'll bring the awesome." -The 'Swish'
This is a good point
but I also think, depending on the team’s performance of course, that if the Sox’s biggest problems remain on the pitching ledger of things, we could see Josh Fields get traded. If PK’s (or anyone else he could feasibly replace in the lineup) flimsiness stays the biggest issue, then he’ll stick around. But I really remember larry saying that the Quentin trade foretold the Swisher deal. If Kenny feels he can get a playoff team out of this bunch, he may continue to pull triggers in a win now mode. Poreda, honestly, would be a nice piece too considering his seemingly favorable rawness to perceived value ratio. Who could Fields and Poreda get in a trade?
dude, that was totally not swish you saw on rush street last night. swish was at home playing xbox.
You guys are effin' tough
Konerko goes 2-4, gets the first hit of the game (pulled through SS) and all you focus on is his potential deterioration based upon his whiff? Did you see how quickly Big Frank was picked up after being cut? Do you think there might be a market for Paulie for the next, say, 5-7 years?
Keehrist.
I took the "under".
The A's are paying Frank the pro-rated minimum...
and they did not have to give up any players for him. So… no.
And what are the Jays paying?
The point is that proven performance always is in demand. And, though Paulie doesn’t live up to your lofty expectations, he is a proven performer, and as long as he’s healthy and keeps his numbers around where he is he’ll have a job.
Regardless of how much of Frank’s salary they are paying he’s still worth at least a look-see. And I think at this stage Paulie’s got a little more upside than Frank.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions
Well...
you asked about the next 5-7 years. I’d say Konerko is a good bet for the next year, maybe two, but after that…
Konerko would be far from the first slow, right-handed power hitter to have a sharp drop in performance in his early ‘30s.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions
Lofty expectations? Have you taken a look at his line?
Obviously, he won’t end up with those numbers to finish the season but he is pretty putrid to watch right now.
I don't judge a guy by 20 games
His numbers last year (and he was awful the first 1/2 of the year) ended up being similar to his 2002-2003 numbers.
As far as him falling off a cliff in 1-2 years I’ll err on the side of optimism. He has a nice contract for the next 2-3 years, he’s a family guy, he’s competitive, he keeps himself in shape. He’ll be OK.
If not, I blame Juan Uribe.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Uribe WILL likely end the season with garbage numbers.
If there is anything positive that you see from him when watching his awful AB’s, good for you. He is guessing fastball and swinging as hard as he can half the time. He is a great defender but he should be a backup utility infielder earning a million dollars. He is no better than a Neifi Perez yet he is earning $4.5 million dollars and starting on a $100+ million dollar team. I can’t wait until he’s gone.
brought him up? what, with the running SSS uribe joke?
like i said, you’ll wedge uribe into any coversation.
i blame juan uribe
When Ozzie starts playing Ramirez more over Uribe...
regardless of his recent comments, will you get off my back, monkey?
nope
i’m sure you’ll find something else to fixate on and i will then fixate on that.
i blame juan uribe
It's nice to know that I have a secret admirer...
Just don’t get too obsessed or I will break out the restraining order.
Neither did I...
I said that he won’t finish with those numbers at the end of the season but it’s still brutal to watch. I never said to bench Konerko either.
And your comment was that there would be a market...
for Konerko in the future because there was a market for Frank. But the A’s don’t pick up Frank again if he doesn’t come cheap (less than the minimum) or costs them players or prospects. I agree that the market is there for proven performers but don’t expect to get anything of value for an old, declining Konerko. If Kenny wants to trade Konerko in a year or two, it will be a salary dump. Just look at the Jim Edmonds trade to the Padres.
Edmonds is beat up physically
and a pain in the ass personally. My point is SOMEONE is paying Frank. (And Frank’s past performance is head ‘n shoulders above Paulie, so I understand his decline perhaps brings him to a Konerko age 36 performance when Frank is 40.)
Someone will want Paulie when he’s 36-37 if he wants to play.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions
And it will be a low payroll A.L. team that needs a DH...
and they will probably only trade for Paulie if the Sox pick up some of his contract.
So?
If, if, if. I am saying there will be a market for him.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions
Okay, as long as you aren't contending that...
we will get anything of value back for him at that point.
And Frank Thomas...
is falling from a much further height than Paul Konerko ever reached.
From a purely offensive standpoint, Frank Thomas had a better year in 2007 (in his age-39 season) than Paul Konerko did in his age-31 season. Konerko’s best offensive years weren’t really much better than Thomas’s worst (full) seasons.
Not that that’s a knock on Konerko – Thomas is headed to the hall of fame. It’s not really a fair comparison. But there’s a reason that Thomas still has interest at 40.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
But I think...
that Konerko will be worse at age 36 than Thomas is at age 39. They’re basically equivalent hitters right now.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions
I might take issue with that
but you have to admit that Paulie can still play 1B and gets “hurt” less than Frank. (Yeah, I know he has no range, but it’s better than playing Thome there.)
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions
Sure...
but will that still be true in 3-4 years? I don’t know.
I was always against the Konerko contract. There are always guys floating around that can hit.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions
I recall you are on record saying that
and I respectfully disagree. So be it.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions
I disagree also. Kenny's decision to sign him was fine at the time
And why do we care about 3-4 years? His contract is up in 2010.
Philosophical issues.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions
Thanks.
We’ll leave it at that – I don’t want larry yelling at me for repeating myself again.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions
stop repeating yourself about me yelling at you about repeating yourself
i don’t want to have to repeat myself.
i blame juan uribe
but the whiff they're talking about came off of a crap pitcher. oh, what's that, joba chamberlain's pretty good?
Blood has been shed, Jerry.
by Toonderstrook on Apr 25, 2008 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions
It isn't just against Joba...
Konerko has looked terrible swinging at breaking balls all season long. “Stick with the fastball, Ricky.”
Naw, he lost a game - not perfect any more.
He sucks.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions
That was not the main point
I was after. I just thought that it would make sense under some circumstances to trade Josh. If that was unclear, I blame Los Angeles.
dude, that was totally not swish you saw on rush street last night. swish was at home playing xbox.
I was thinking the same thing really
I think if the Sox hang on the edge of contention, Fields/Poreda/Shelby are unlikely to finish 2008 in the Sox organization.
I think the return would be disappointing. Poreda is struggling and he got the Sox West Coast scout canned for drafting him. And larry posted a scout mentioning Fields maxing out as a .240 hitter.
I would guess that trio could pull in someone like Kevin Millwood, but that might be optimistic.
by hitlesswonder on Apr 25, 2008 8:22 AM CDT up reply actions
Fields is untouchable with Crede's contract status up in the air...
Kenny isn’t going to trade Fields without Crede being locked up. I really don’t think Kenny wants Crede over Fields for next season and in the future anyways. I would be surprised if he trades Poreda as well. I’m sure Kenny would trade Shelby in a second though.
No one is untouchable
Kenny is playing for 2008 not 2009. Plus you are overrating Fields—I’m sure the Sox internal scouting is that Fields will be a .240ish hitter with plus power who will have trouble sticking at 3B. If he can be moved for someone that might get the Sox to the playoffs, he’s gone. The Sox can worry about 3B next year.
by hitlesswonder on Apr 25, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, Poreda is really struggling...
a 2.35 ERA and a 4/11 BB/K ratio is awful. The Sox should definitely dump him for a bucket of baseballs.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions
he does have the advantage
of having that horrible outing that got rained out erased.
i blame juan uribe
True...
but he’s pitched very well since then.
He’s hardly a bust draft pick.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions
I didn't say he was a bust pick
It’s way too early to say that. I was just stating I doubt other teams scouts are real high on him right now and trying to back that up with evidence. Poreda could still easily turn out to be a useful major league pitcher.
by hitlesswonder on Apr 25, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions
First old guy injury?
JD was moving better in RF this year (damning with faint praise indeed). Let’s see how serious this is. If he’s going to be babying that groin the rest of the season, look for Frankenstein Part II in RF when he returns to the lineup.
The Owens injury forced Ozzie’s hand with Swisher at leadoff. Maybe something good will come of this and JD finally goes to LF where he belongs.
''It's a grinder-type attitude, energetic attitude, confident-type attitude, and if it grinds on some people, then I need to know who those people are so we can move them on''
Well, everyone wanted Swish in RF, and anyone but Owens
in CF. Let’s see how this plays out.
I took the "under".
Groin
Oh the groin strain again. Seems to linger over this team like a black cloud. I guess we find out today how long JD is out. He has already been ruled out for tonight’s game. I have a feeling he’ll sit for 3 games, then try it out on Monday – tweak it again and then hit the DL. Then JO will be brought up….oh the bad luck.
Oh for that cloud to swing over Uribe for a game. I guess you can’t strain or pull fat.
Joba who?
"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."
by BobbySouthSide on Apr 25, 2008 8:16 AM CDT up reply actions
Don't look now, but the Tigers are starting to punish the ball
We finished up our games with them at just they right time, they’ve moved up to #2 in the league in runs scored – that didn’t take them very long. And Granderson is back in the lineup. If they had any pitching at all…
"The little things are always in my mind," he said. "I always like to move the guy over, I like to bunt, but right now we don't have the situations to do it."
Sox OBP is slipping, oh oh
"The little things are always in my mind," he said. "I always like to move the guy over, I like to bunt, but right now we don't have the situations to do it."
Detroit Pitching
The Tigers need better pitching. Their offense is fine, with or without Granderson, but obviously better with him.
...and on my death bed, I will receive total consciousness. So I got that going for me, which is nice.
Thank goodness for Hawkins
He absolutely sucks this year.
...and on my death bed, I will receive total consciousness. So I got that going for me, which is nice.
Bullpen woes, but not ours
It seemed to be poor planning by the Yankees, who have not carried a traditional long reliever all season. They have needed one repeatedly, but instead have pushed the job on Ohlendorf, who pitched in a short-relief role in spring training.
Even more, the Yankees’ bullpen was already thin after Brian Bruney injured his foot on Tuesday, possibly tearing two ligaments and likely requiring a disabled list stint. Instead of getting a fresh pitcher to take Bruney’s spot, the Yankees made no move.
Girardi acknowledged that the Yankees would have to bring in a fresh pitcher or two for Friday’s game in Cleveland, especially because of an elbow injury to Kyle Farnsworth.
Farnsworth slipped on the wet mound on his final pitch of a scoreless seventh and could not return for the eighth. When he slipped, his arm angle dropped, which he said "put a little more stress" on his elbow.
"If anything goes wrong there, it’s tough," Farnsworth said. "It’s better to be safe than sorry."
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/25/sports/baseball/25yankees.html?_r=1&ref=sports&oref=slogin
"Lipstick traces on cigarettes can get you in trouble or remind you of the wonders of the night before."
Gavin Floyd, Ramirez
I wasn’t able to catch the game, 5 runs, 6 innings not great, but the conditions weren’t great either. Does he still look like a major league pitcher? For a guy who I thought would be either are number 4 or 5 depending on how awful Contreras is I can’t be too down on the outing, it looks like he kept us in the game.
Perfect world scenario?
With JD out, Alexei starts a few days in CF, hits the ball well, and shows he can be an everyday player for us? This injury would be a blessing in disguise if he actually performs. JD comes back, Alexei takes Uribe’s job. Obviously.. that hinges on Alexei Ramirez being a real baseball player which he hasn’t proven yet but one can hope.
by Grinder in Training on Apr 25, 2008 8:45 AM CDT reply actions
I wasn't that bad of an outing
He couldnt find the zone when put out of the stretch. The zone shrunk just a bit on him with the Yankee factor as well. Also I don’t know if I would of put him out for the 6th inning. There was a 1 hour rain delay, and you cant go by traditional pitch count when you let the pitcher wind down over an hour. As cheat said, if this is how bad floyd is, I will take it. The best thing is how he came back after the RD, his change and his curve were making some silly swing happen.
by southsideirish71 on Apr 25, 2008 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions
Its easy to see why folks fall in love with Floyd
His off speed pitches are above average and sometimes downright nasty. He definitely is a 4-5 mlb starter. If he can command the strike zone he can move up the pecking order. But the Yankees and patient teams are likely to give him some trouble until then. So far I like what I see. Methinks Floyd-Danks might be a decent future.
The only disappointing thing about Gavin Floyd to me is...
the loss of velocity on his fastball since he was a young prospect. He used to top off at around 94 MPH but now it looks like he is sitting at around 90 MPH, according to the broadcast guns. But if that is the cost of Floyd being more accurate with his pitches and throwing strikes, I’ll take it. Gavin Floyd and half of Nick Swisher for a broken down Freddy Garcia looks like a steal now.
IIRC...
there was more than one Chicago sportswriter complaining about how the Sox traded a “proven winner” for a minor-league arm and a reclamation project.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions
No, but...
It wasn’t just them. I recall more than a few Sox fans were upset that Garcia wasn’t dealt for more immediate help.
I always loved that trade, but there were critics.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions
But I get your point.
to get what the Sox did for a broken-down Freddy Garcia was always awesome. The critics were dumb.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions
whether they wanted "more" [what else is new] and/or "immediate"
that trade was highway robbery.
i blame juan uribe
Serious pantsing
It would be amazing if we ever get to trade with Philly again.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions
We traded
Gooch their last July.
"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."
by BobbySouthSide on Apr 25, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions
Not much of a trade
but you are correct – there was a transaction. I’ll clarify – I doubt Philly will take very much risk with us again. Gooch was no $ risk, and we were looking to dump.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Some would say
this was a makeup trade to the sorry I “pantsed you” with Garcia trade.
I don’t think the Sox have had any dealings with the Blue Jays since the Sirotka deal?? Wells didn’t really pan out either but he taught Buehrle how to pitch.
"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."
by BobbySouthSide on Apr 25, 2008 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions
Don't look now...
but Mike Dubee has been pretty decent down at Winston-Salem this year, putting up a 7/19 BB/K ratio in 23 innings (4 starts). He’s still only 22. There’s a chance (albeit a slim on) that he might turn into something.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions
Slim as
a paper clip.
"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."
by BobbySouthSide on Apr 25, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions
there are a few good looking
early season performances in the lower leagues.
dude, that was totally not swish you saw on rush street last night. swish was at home playing xbox.
even "giving" them iguchi doesn't make-up that
they were beaten, raped, and pillaged in that trade. 8.5 VORP or whatever it was they got out of iguchi ain’t going to make up for that.
i blame juan uribe
I find it totally amusing
That at the present time the White Sox are perhaps the best off when it comes to pitching in the division for the next few years. That would be amazing to me considering almost everything I have read had the team headed for diaster pitching wise in June of last year.
weren't you one of those who wanted another starter?
floyd still doesn’t convince. and i’d rate the twins pitching above the sox. but the sox could be in much worse shape. egbert is the real wild card in this. if he is a decent #4, the sox are in good shape.
i blame juan uribe
Yep i sure was.
Dont get me wrong Im not harping at all. And I agree Floyd and Danks have a long way to go. But their upside I think surpasses a few of the Twins guys. And contractual situation I figured into the equation.
When will Egbert get his chance?
He is already 25, has showed that he can win in the minors. But we have our staff as it stands now – locked up through next year.
"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."
by BobbySouthSide on Apr 25, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions
Someone will break down.
Don’t you worry.
Nobody has too much pitching.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions
My guess is that...
Contreras’ arm will fall off sooner or later considering he avoids throwing overhand these days.
i think bobby means
actually being inserted into the rotation as a “regular.” obviously any pitcher can go down at anytime. but there are significant roadblocks in place to egbert actually solidifying himself in the 5 before 2010. not least the fact that he’s not first in line to be called upon.
i blame juan uribe
Contreras
If Contreras keeps pitching like a major league pitcher maybe we can just move him? We might have to add some cash, but he hasn’t looked completely awful this year.
by Grinder in Training on Apr 25, 2008 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Best off????
Danks, Floyd, Contreras…they all worry me. Even Buehrle could fall off.
If the Indians keep CC – they’ll have a solid rotation. I’d take the Tiger’s Verlander, Robertson & Bonderman. I think the last two will come around again.
Twins will have a better staff than us too.
"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."
by BobbySouthSide on Apr 25, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions
They should all worry you.
I didnt make an ironclad statement. I dont believe CC will remain with Cleveland. And you can have the Tigers rotation. The Twins, we will see.
He still
touches 94 out of the windup, but sits pretty much at 90 in the stretch. Part of the slight loss of velocity is that his windup and delivery are more compact which has helped him find a more consistent release point and has helped him regain some of his confidence in his fastball and breaking stuff. He has also begun to cut his fastball a little more than he previously did which obviously takes a little steam off the heater.
The Cell Gun is way slow
Joba was topping out at 94-95. This is a guy that never falls below 95 at Yankee stadium and is regularly sitting at 97-99, peaking at 100.
I would assume that you can safely add 3-4mph to everyone’s readings last night.
Hung a bad slider
To Cabrera, other than he looked pretty good against a weakened (no A-rod) Yankee lineup. He didn’t have very good control, but the conditions were tough with the delays and wetness. He did manage to miss bats with some nasty breaking pitches(4 Ks), and he will need to continue this trend in order to have sustained success.
Sometimes
teams play better when their superstars go down… like the cubs. That is why I was not dissapointed with this series.
by Where Triples Go to Die on Apr 25, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions
Ozzie sure is a strange one
This game had all the ups and downs of Ozzie. He sticks with Floyd after the rain delay, who promptly settles downs (at least for awhile) and takes some pressure off the bullpen. Then he sticks with Thornton too long (should have been a LOOGY situation) and the Yankees tie the game. Then he tries to stretch Logan (foolishly, even with a very left handed Yankees lineup) in the 8th inning of a tie game. Then he redeems himself by using Jenks in a high leverage non save situation and Bobby quickly gets the DP.
I guess Dye left with a strained groin? Surprise surprise the YES broadcast didn’t even mention it. I was about to crucify Ozzie for taking Dye’s bat out of the game in the 7th, but I guess the move makes sense in this light.
The non-save situation was mentioned by Hawk/DJ last night
and has been discussed previously – when tied in the 9th at home it’s OK to use your closer for at least the one inning. And it worked out well. Was it a 4-5 pitch “W” for Bobby? He can be deadly in his efficiency.
It was a volatile game. I went to bed at 10:00, woke up at 12:15 or so and saw Bobby get his DP, then got to see the Q/JC show. So my night was like Bobby’s – highly efficient.
The team is certainly fun (more fun) to watch than last year’s model. The debates being stimulated are more fun – as opposed to everyone trying to create new ays to say “we suck now and for the forseeable future” we’re debating who sucks, who would suck less, and (miracle of miracles) who we actually LIKE that is currently performing well.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions
You're right on
The last point in your post is spot on with what I’ve been saying. This team might not make the playoffs (although I think they have a fair chance to do so) but it feels like it is going to be a fun season at the very least. Last year there was that feeling of “ah hell, gotta watch another Sox game” whereas this year it’s back to the “I’ve got to find a TV, the Sox are about to start” feeling that I love.
This team is FUN and is going to battle every game. That at least will make the season feel like something to enjoy rather than a punishment.
Contributing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 25, 2008 9:59 AM CDT reply actions
"I’ve got to find a TV, the Sox are about to start"
make it ‘I’ve got to turn on the radio’
stoney is awesome!
The greatest trick the White Sox ever pulled was convincing their fan base that "Ozzieball" ever existed.
Sox Tickets?
I’m trying to get at least 7 tickets for Sunday’s game. I’d prefer not to sit in the 500 level, and I realize it’s short notice, but for those who buy tickets regularly, any suggestions on what sites / brokers to use when your in need of tickets in a pinch? Stubhub didn’t have much except 8 scout seats for 200+ which is out of my range. I’d settle for the bleachers myself, but the people I’m going with prefer to be along the base lines.
by Grinder in Training on Apr 25, 2008 10:11 AM CDT reply actions
I would guess there will be MANY empty seats on Sun, not supposed to be great weather.
Buy the cheapest tickets that allow Main Level access (includes UPPER SEASON TICKETS). Then sit in the outfield. Yankee game on Weds had 10 empty rows in most outfield sections. Can’t believe Balt will be different on Sun.
Look at this auction on EBAY # 140227607945 – 4 in 162 for less than $120 (get them emailed?) &
THIS— # 290224945309 – 4 SEASON TICKET UPPERS w/ Parking for $110 OVERNITED.
I guarantee you’ll be able to find 8 together in the outfield.
Sox.com / Ticketmaster have 8 in S154 / R25 for $36 +$4.75 each. Call up the Sox and pay over the phone, have them leave @ WILL CALL and save $4.75 X 8.
Pitching and defense.
Bally
The outfield is my preference, but due to the possible poor weather the people I’m going with want to sit along the baselines in the roofed area if possible.
by Grinder in Training on Apr 25, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions
Also
Does anyone know.. assuming the weather is bad, how hard is it to move up if I just bought 500 level seats to try to move down to a lower area? If it’s empty are they still pretty strict on checking the tickets after the first couple innings or do they just not care?
by Grinder in Training on Apr 25, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions
It is pretty hard to move down.
Maybe after the 5th or so you could. But they are usually there checking for lower level tickets.
Check Craigslist.org….might be able to find value there. I always sell my extras there and there isn’t any fees.
"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."
by BobbySouthSide on Apr 25, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions
S154 R25 is covered if I'm not mistaken.
Sox.com / Ticketmaster have 8 in S154 / R25 for $36 +$4.75 each. Call up the Sox and pay over the phone, have them leave @ WILL CALL and save $4.75 X 8.
Pitching and defense.
Thanks
Sounds look a good idea.
by Grinder in Training on Apr 25, 2008 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions
"if that game ends in a loss the last week plus would have had a very 2007-like feel to it."
Great line, Cheat. Of course I was thinking the same thing – going thru it last night (yuck) and then after they pulled it out. It is a different team. It could be good.
Pitching and defense.
BB, I'm glad you are not in jail
I saw that a trader was arrested for spreading false rumors re: ADS/Blackstone and profitting by shorting ADS. I was hoping it was not you.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions
Ha Ha.
Ever hear of a positive spinner (long stock) getting prosecuted? All day long the media is filled w/ buy this and buy that with all kind of superlatives. Mention something negative and HE GONE! What a great country!
Pitching and defense.
Should say except those penny stock touters.
Pitching and defense.
And the newsletter guys -
remember the Koerean guy a few years ago that got whacked for his Internet touts? Didn’t he have a subscription-offered newsletter?
Or, to be like Chiburb last night, perhaps it’s becuase of Republican prosecutors harassing non-Caucasians.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions
it was me...
oh well, at least i got a severance package.
by MarketMaker on Apr 25, 2008 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions
BTW, may I say that I, for one,
am thrilled this site is once again available to distract me from work. Pay the tech guys extra to keep this MF online!
I took the "under".
I thought it crashed due to the Internet traffic
after Frank Thomas signed with the A’s.
"We're gonna bring it all day, everyday...we're gonna keep grinding it out." - Nick Swisher (4/1/08)
I was actually
typing “Uribe is the man, behind the man, behind the man, behind Tony Rezko and then it crapped out.”
Tony’s guys must have gotten pissed…I’d watch your back.
"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."
by BobbySouthSide on Apr 25, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Masset
Why rag on him in this article? He’s given up runs in only one of his appearences so far this season, basically in a garbage role. He’s proven pretty valuable so far as a long man and has a nice 3.75 ERA, which is perfect for someone in his role. If he can walk a few less batters and bring down his WHIP, with his .244 BAA he could be very good.
cheat was just pointing out that the law of conservation of masset applies even to the yankees.
masset can neither be created nor destroyed. always there. always the same.
i blame juan uribe
Are you hoping for a "Gentleman Masher"-like
embracing for The Law of Massett? Quantum physicists want to know.
I took the "under".
by winningugly on Apr 25, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions
It's definitely more versatile
A few years ago, it would’ve been The Law of Glover.
Never trust a big butt and a smile.
Sox Machine
by Sox Machine on Apr 25, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions
they admire my lightheartedness in the face of disaster
but it might take a pump and dump scam for me to bail out this quarter. if every earnings could be like google, i might make a comeback.
Couple of points...
1) The outing where Masset got rocked wasn’t really a “garbage role”, or it wasn’t when he came in. The game was within reach until Masset crapped all over it.
2) The fact that his success is due to a low BAA is exactly what’s worrisome. That’s not going to continue.
The one thing that points to future success is that his “K” rate is up. That’s nice.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions
Last night...
definitely would’ve been nice to have Wasserman in the bullpen - any close game, really, as the Ehren Boone ROOGY/LOOGY combo would likely be better than any non-Jenks reliever - but that’s been beaten to a bloody pulp, so I’ll digress.
WASSERMAN IS DECENT
but whos to say he doesn’t implode from day 1? you can’t project relievers.
by Where Triples Go to Die on Apr 25, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions
Masset is getting the fluff-job at WhiteSox.com...
“Having used four relievers in Thursday’s win, the White Sox may need to call on a reliable arm, righty Nick Masset, tonight at 7:11 CT against the Orioles.”
Does any Sox player...
ever get criticised at Whitesox.com?
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions
"Reliable" is non-specific in regard to what may be relied upon
by hitlesswonder on Apr 25, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions
decent
understates his performance. he’s pitched 6.2 hitless, scoreless innings in charlotte so far this year, and last year with the sox he pitched 23 innings with a 2.73 ERA and 1.17 WHIP as a rookie. righties OPSed .430 against him. that’s better than decent.
with the way dotel, macdougal, and thornton have looked so far, wouldn’t you like to at least see if he can do that consistently at the major league level? i would.
Don't get me started...
on the Dotel signing.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions
jre
he is coming off an injury right? give the guy a chance… he will be alright for us.
by Where Triples Go to Die on Apr 25, 2008 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Again...
don’t get me started.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions
+
he is better than anyone detroit has in their bull pen
by Where Triples Go to Die on Apr 25, 2008 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Huh?
Why is that not going to continue? He is striking out about a batter an inning. There is Zero replacement for him anywhere in our system. Wasserman is a situational righty who pitches 1 inning, 2 tops. Masset has been effective in his long role, and has already proven his value by eating innings when we need him, and having very effective appearences except for one, which I was at and was already pretty much out of reach.
Because it won't continue.
It’s not like Nick Masset has learned a new pitch or found that mystical 98 mph fastball. He still sucks – it just hasn’t reflected in the twelve innings he’s pitched thus far. Any journeyman can have a good twelve innings. Remember that David Aardsma was untouchable last April, as was Mike MacDougal.
BAA has a lot more to do with defense and luck than it does with pitcher skill. The increase in strikeouts is nice, and that is a good sign, but Masset hasn’t “proven” anything.
by The Jerry Royster Experience on Apr 25, 2008 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions
hey chicago pete
are you a season ticket holder right behind the sox dugout? if not i saw someone who looked just like you the first game against the yanks.
by Where Triples Go to Die on Apr 25, 2008 1:07 PM CDT reply actions
Was this you on craigslist? IIRC they were all the rage in Joliet, usually the zebra stripes - smokin!
I was cleaning out my closet and I found 47 pairs of BRIGHT NEON MC Hammer pants. I was going to burn them and dance around the flames to try to make it rain or something, but I thought that maybe somebody would want these. They are absolutely the worst pants of all time. I can’t remember being stupid enough to buy these, but I must have been.
"The little things are always in my mind," he said. "I always like to move the guy over, I like to bunt, but right now we don't have the situations to do it."
Boy, that explains a lot
or at least gives a broader frame of reference.
But I’ll bet you got laid like a mofo.
I took the "under".
of course the pants look stupid...
by themselves. the sportcoat with the vest style closure completes the ensemble. only then are you really doing it. just wearing the pants… that’s amateur hour.
They go well with his satin Member's Only jacket
"The little things are always in my mind," he said. "I always like to move the guy over, I like to bunt, but right now we don't have the situations to do it."
I'm sorry, I had it wrong - the Joliet thing was Zubaz pants, not Hammer Pants
tres cool, tres chic!
"The little things are always in my mind," he said. "I always like to move the guy over, I like to bunt, but right now we don't have the situations to do it."
Send them to New Orleans
and get a tax deduction for the colorful tent donation.
Gotta keep thinkin’ Pete. It’s all about the Benjamins.
I took the "under".
These pants are the same pants that were worn by pro athletes, rock stars, kings and queens, and anybody who Dared to be Different.
"The little things are always in my mind," he said. "I always like to move the guy over, I like to bunt, but right now we don't have the situations to do it."
Endorsed by Vanilla Ice too, top shelf
"The little things are always in my mind," he said. "I always like to move the guy over, I like to bunt."
The Good Lord, in His infinite wisdom,
invented the Zubaz pants to make it easy to instantly recognize a douchebag from afar.
"The little things are always in my mind," he said. "I always like to move the guy over, I like to bunt."
Gotta say, these 2 weather sites (Accuweather.com & Weather.com)
are like dealing with Morgan Stanley as an investor.
The two sites, both yesterday and today, could not have had different forecasts. Accuweather, little if any rain, and Weather.com, “batten down the hatches” a monsoon is coming. It’s not that imprecise a science, is it?
Morgan Stanley asks, are you bullish or bearish?The bulls get sent to Byron Wein (I know he’s retired) to discuss investment opportunities. The bears get sent to Stephen Roach.
A flavor for everyone.Pitching and defense.
aren't they both calling for strong storms this afternoon?
i’ve been following the weather, seems consistent so far. don’t know about yesterday.
i blame juan uribe
Go to both, key in zip 60616, then get to hour by hour.
Accuweather – 1one-hour period, from 7PM on, has precipitation.
Weather.com – “Strong Storms / Wind” all evening, every one-hour period.
Pitching and defense.
And, this is the best part. Tell him, William.
No matter whether they are buying or selling, Dukes and Dukes get the commission.
“Y’all nothin’ but a buch of bookies!”
I took the "under".
GD? MF?
I didn’t know you kept it so G rated. Fuck that shit.
dude, that was totally not swish you saw on rush street last night. swish was at home playing xbox.
and I'm on vacation so fuck it!
was going to follow up on Wesley last night, but a neighbor came over and wouldn’t leave. I don’t usually dump and run like that. At least not in reply to you.
"Lipstick traces on cigarettes can get you in trouble or remind you of the wonders of the night before."
Yep, the leash around the muzzle
about says it all.
So much for freedom of speech!
I took the "under".
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