Alexei Ramirez is Grindy Enough for All of Us

i agree

linebrink’s changeup looked horribly flat and just either stayed out of the strike zone or floated right to where the royals could hit it hard

it seems like he went to a 3-2 count on a lot of hitters…and still continued to toss up poor changeups that got knocked around….combined with JD’s awful miscue on the game-tying double…it was a disastrous 11th

still sooooo happy to get the win and some more breathing room

vazquez needs another strong outing tomorrow and hopefully beckett is on his game as well in boston

how long before john and jordan danks sit atop the brothers home run list?

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 12:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i didn't see linebrink pitch

was he missing with his fastball too, or just unable to put hitters away after getting ahead?

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:01 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

uh...basically both

but mainly he couldn’t put the hitters away at all

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 1:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the fastball seemed okay

the problem was with his changeup and his inability to throw his curve for a strike. In fact, I don’t think a single curve even came close to coming across as a strike.

-Jeeves Life in the Cell

by jeeves on Jul 9, 2008 1:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you're right on that one

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 1:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

there's just something wrong with his command on that changeup

and he needs to get it fixed….fast

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 1:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

fast? eh, it won't be that big a deal long term

Coop I’m sure noticed it. It’s harder for relievers to work kinks out because they get so little time, but the difference between horrible and passable isn’t very big so it’s not that hard to get back to passable.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 3:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A change up that isn't working for a guy in new role?

This isn’t the kind of pitch that works well with the adrenaline flowing. This isn’t his fastball that’s the problem. This is probably why he doesn’t do well with closing. For a changeup to work the guy has to be feeling pretty good. If he’s nervous / anxious or just too pumped up a change can easily get left hanging up. I haven’t paid enough attention to each pitch to see if it’s just mechanical or if there is more to it.

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 8:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i think it's just him trying to be to fine with all his pitches and trying not to make mistakes

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I just don't buy nerves when, for one, the data doesn't support it and, two, there's no way a long time major leaguer get flustered by the Royals simply because it's in extras

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Steve Blass/Chuck Knoblauch say otherwise

Not that I am suggesting Liney can’t throw it into the ocean. Guys do have things happen to them for inexplicable reasons.

That being said, I find it hard to believe the issue is his “guts”, or “nervousness”. He may be feeling the added pressure of closing on top of justifying his contract as a setup guy. Who knows?

But if he says he’s not comfortable, listen to him, Oz. Fields isn’t in LF any more, either.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They call it "Blass disease" because of its rarity and weirdity

but, nonetheless, point taken. If he actually doesn’t want to, don’t make him. But can I get a source on this supposed quote at least?

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i can agree with that

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed on Linebrink

During Sunday’s game we were up on our feet cheering for quite a long time as he kept getting batters to 2 strikes and then refused to put them away.

It was great to get this win. It would have been heart breaking to lose in such a fashion in the bottom of the 13th. I sure as hell wouldn’t be up and this cheerful had the Sox blown it nor would I have written about the game.

Random question that has really no bearing on anything: Had Masset blown the game and the Russell pitched, would the Sox have turned to one of the starters to pitch relief or is there secretly a position player that could pitch in an extreme bind ala Pablo as the emergency catcher?

Do we see Toby Hall tomorrow after AJ caught such a long game?

-Jeeves Life in the Cell

by jeeves on Jul 9, 2008 1:03 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

We shouldn't...

Hall is 0 for 3 against Bannister. Pierzynski is 5 for 9 with 4 doubles against Bannister.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 1:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

saaaaaample siiiiiiiiiiiize

but he is the kind of pitcher AJ mashes. i’d rather have a healthy catcher than 1 game against the royals, so whatever Ozzie and Herm think.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 2:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

On Liney...

In appearances where he lasted at least 0.1 innings, the difference between Liney’s performance in the 7th/8th innings and his performance in the 9th is not statistically significant. When entering the game in the 7th or 8th inning (N=308), he gave up an average of 0.421 Earned Runs per Inning Pitched. When entering the game in the 9th inning (N=39), he gave up an average of 0.377 ER/IP. The two-sample t-statistic for this test comes out to be just 0.33, which means that there is a very high probability that we would see a difference in ER/IP of this magnitude due purely to randomness.

In short, this little test does not provide us with enough evidence to say that he performs differently in different innings. I intended for this to be save situation v. non-save situation, but I figured this would be a good enough approximation since I don’t subscribe to baseball reference.

The data for that came from gamelogs – thank god for the text to columns function!

by reardenmettle on Jul 9, 2008 2:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Boosh!

well played, sir

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 2:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wow

great stuff rearden

-Jeeves Life in the Cell

by jeeves on Jul 9, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So I'm filling out The Ledger for the google doc

And I searched the comments to try to find out how much the Phils are sending us for Thome if/when his option vests and couldn’t come up with anything definitive. Cheat said 4-6 a while back. Anything more certain? I’ve got his ‘09 salary at 7.5 for now. That work for everyone?

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 3:10 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I actually thought the option year was on the Sox

But that’s strictly memory – so I’ll see if I can find anything too

by Brush Back on Jul 9, 2008 8:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Did you try Cot's?

I believe in Harvey, Illinois

by Hazymania on Jul 9, 2008 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah it wasn't specific

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

$5.5 million...

http://www.mlb4u.com/profile.php?id=837

Contract:
signed 6-year deal worth $85M- + he receives a $10M signing bonus of which $2.5M is payable in 2006 and salaries of $9.5M in 2003, $10.5M in 2004, $11.5M in 2005, $12.5M in 2006, $14M in 2007 and $14M in 2008- + the deal includes a team option for 2009 worth $13M or a $3M buyout- + bonuses he has received: $50K for 2004 All-Star- + he receives a complete NO-TRADE clause- + the 2009 option becomes guaranteed with 1,100 PA combined during the 2007 and 2008 seasons- + waived no-trade caluse to approve a deal to CHW on 11/23/05- + $22M of remaining $46M on his contract at time of trade that sends him to CHW is paid by PHI ($5.5M each season in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009)

Agent: Pat Rooney

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So you are correct -- Thome will earn $7.5 million next season.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

thanks for tracking it down

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

type mlb4u in the search box and click on comments

seems you need some memory boosting vitamins

or aren’t you wide awake yet?

:p

The greatest trick the White Sox ever pulled was convincing their fan base that "Ozzieball" ever existed.

by The Wizard on Jul 9, 2008 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it's only 1:35

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't have as many links at my disposal

since the old laptop went down, a lot of good bookmarks died along with it. RIP, baby.

and I was up before noon today! proud, aintcha?

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That Cowley bloke winds me up

constantly sending texts about the rubbish food in KC. Most people have to pay for their lunch, and there he is whining like a fucking schoolboy

regards

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 4:07 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Food outside of their BBQ in KC / St. Louis area is pretty god awful, probably the worst in the nation in my experience. I have paid for food in those town’s and not finished it because it was so awful, so getting it free doesn’t mean much. If you travel to the US, do not go there.

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 8:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is is that they have their own unique recipes?

or just can’t cook as well as everyone else does?

thanks

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

KC and St. Louis are two different areas.

Like trying to lump together Chicago and Indianapolis.

And KC is fine. Been there at least a dozen times, going back in September.

Never trust a big butt and a smile.
Sox Machine

by Sox Machine on Jul 9, 2008 8:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

there are good and bad places to eat

everywhere in my opinion (apart from Scotland)

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess my experiences

are not varied enough just from not living there. But the food was awful in both places when ever I’ve traveled through. St. Louis was the worst of all time but the places I went to in KC weren’t great either.

Hoodlight, I don’t know if they were trying to be different.. or just couldn’t do it as well.

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

St Louis food is pretty bad

I spent the past year in St Louis for school and I have lost 20 lb without doing a lick of exercise. Thankfully I get to spend the summer in Louisville.

by joewho112 on Jul 9, 2008 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

what sort of stuff do they like to serve up?

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In St Louis,

It all pretty unremarkable. Quite a bit of BBQ and Italian along with the horrendous St Louis-style Pizza with Provell “cheese” (the FDA won’t let them call it cheese).

Louisville serves a lot of southern cooking and Irish/English grub along with quite a bit of stuff from nearby cities (Cinci-style chilli, som Chicago-style pizza, etc.)

by joewho112 on Jul 9, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yup

Note I didn’t say anything about St. Louis…

Never trust a big butt and a smile.
Sox Machine

by Sox Machine on Jul 9, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

2 run SF not exciting?

Helluva play on both ends – great catch, too. And seeing it twice on ESPN, watching someone with actual speed, baseball sense, and talent on our team is exciting to me. And the game getting extended because of it is exciting to me. But that’s just me.

Well, the value of my t-shirts has gone up at least 15%.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 6:20 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You making a long term play with those or looking to make a quick turnaround?

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Long haul for mine, short-term giveaways down here (while he's hot and memorable)

Just increasing awareness. The Q! shirt is giving Jim a decent amount of pub down here.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Speaking of Sugar Cane Ramirez (and his sweet play)...

In 2005, KW brought in a Japanese 2B, mostly sight-unseen, with results beyond our expectations. This year he brings us Ramirez from Cuba, with similar results so far (knock on wood, “tap wood” for any lurking faux Brits). But here are my questions:

I believe I read here that the closest comparable to Cuban baseball is our AA ball, and that Japanese ball is about equal to AAA, with an obviously larger sample size. Does that make the Ramirez acquisition even that more impressive than Tadahito’s? Does it say anything about the Sox Latin American scouting dept.? Is Kenny the luckiest GM around?

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 8:12 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Without a doubt this is a better acquisition.

No one else wanted the guy, he got him at age 26 for four years, 1 million per, and so far he’s looked like a better player then the Guch. A shortstop with range, a solid glove, a cannon for an arm, and a solid bat during his prime for 1 million a year? Are you kidding me? This blows the Guch pick up out of the water. I’d say luck, but he seems to know what he’s doing at this point, I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt.

My question about Alexei: As we’ve all seen, the guy adapts probably better then anyone to come through the White Sox, he still doesn’t take many pitches and his OBP is relatively low for a guy with a .300+ average. Will this improve? Does it have to for him to be a valuable short stop? Will patience come with experience, or is this what we have?

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 8:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

of your questions...

the biggest for me is “valuable shortstop”? If he can, I’d agree that KW won the lottery.

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 8:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not sure I know what your saying

Are you saying “He is valuable if he plays as he has so far this year”, or “if he can raise his OBP he would become valuable” ?

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 8:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm saying that Cabrerra is gone next year, and if Sugar Cane can move to SS

and play even adequately, I’m a very happy person.
Sorry if I wasn’t clearer re “next year”.

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Much better acquisition than Iguchi...

Cheaper, younger, better, and presumably can play a more important position. So far Ramirez’s only weakness is that he doesn’t draw many walks, meaning that his OBP will be very AVG-driven.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

just a DYK....

Iguchi has not made an error since leaving the White Sox. 441 chances.

A pretty good streak.

The Midnight Runner (“Alexei’s Midnight Runners,” since he needs more nicknames…?) is more complete of course.

Mosi Tatupu! Mosi Tatupu!

by Nordhagen on Jul 9, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What about "'Lexie's Midnight Runners"?

Same # of syllables. Great idea, N.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Masset

I wasn’t around for the game thread, but was it mentioned he was tearing up the radar gun? I thought I saw a 96 from him. How off must this gun have been?
Also the same inning he couldn’t hit the strike zone so maybe that’s why he normally doens’t throw so hard, but.. almost every pitch was 94,95. No 92’s last night, could just be a bad gun though.

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 8:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He hit 97 on the TeeVee gun

Coffee is for closers.

by vince_ on Jul 9, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

which shocked me

I then checked on gameday and it was 94 or 95, which is still pretty fast. So take it as you will

-Jeeves Life in the Cell

by jeeves on Jul 9, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

While Bobby's hurtin' give the ball to Thornton...

...the man can just flat out blow it by hitters, and last night he was hitting corners. What worries me in Contreras. You just never know what you’re getting out there. Wild pitches, a flat forkball, and when he gets behind he throws that batting cage fastball. I have so little confidence in him. My stomach churns with every inning. At least w/ our other starters you can FEEL like they can win even on days when they don’t have their best stuff. Jose is a train wreck waiting to happen. On another subject, OC has been an excellent addition. Sign him for next year, dump Crede, bring up Fields, keep Ramirez at 2nd. OC is a nut, but I want to see him w/ a bat in his hands when the game’s on the line. Can’t say the same for Joe.

by RoyEgan on Jul 9, 2008 8:20 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Do you think OC would stay for one year or would you sign him long term?

How much are you willing to spend, as I don’t believe he’ll take a one year deal your going to have him through the decline of his career? With our weak farm isn’t it worth adding the two draft picks?

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 8:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

With Ramirez, Richar, and Beckham around...

Kenny really shouldn’t even consider signing Cabrera long-term, if at all.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

age old argument...

by RoyEgan on Jul 9, 2008 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If Cabrera was 5 years young, it would be a different story.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just to be on record

I’m opposed to the White Sox signing a five year old to play shortstop.

Optimist

by Peder on Jul 9, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i'm not

as long as he projects. i bet we could get him for some spongebob merchandise. it’s the new market inefficiency.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You are the next Billy Beane, that you are

spongebob, ha! Nice play!

His most recent E5, botching a sure double play, was classic, as was his recent Dybzynski moment – pinch-running, then quickly getting picked off.

Pablo taketh away, and he giveth, usually with the same hand. Pablo, we barely knew ye. - WU

by rhythm on Jul 9, 2008 3:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry, "youngER".

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Can’t say the same for Joe."

Short memory?

Pitching, defense, health.

by ballyb on Jul 9, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

kenwo's take

For god sake ozzie….seriously what do you need a flag? How many times are you going to keep running out Linebrink in save situations. I have been saying it for over a week that this guy can’t close. It is painfully obvious yet Ozzie keeps putting him out there. This is going to ruin his confidence if it keeps up and he is going to be ** for the rest of the season. Octavio Dotel was a proven closer at one point in his career. This is the man that should be closing games out. Get your head out of your tushie Guillen and manage the damn game like it should be managed.

Other than that… even though they played like total slop, the manager has no clue on how to manage the bullpen now that Jenks is out and Carlos Quentin hit more pop ups than Willie Mays Hays we somehow managed to win. Any time you can separate is a good thing. And I am upset that Chef Ramsey picked Christina to run his kitchen instead of Petroza. Dont know if you watch Hells Kitchen but it is a quality show.

By kenwo4life@aol.com on July 9, 2008 12:05 AM

On July 3rd…TC, Scam, Swasfies or whatever and Mike Devereaux all were arguing with me that it doesn’t matter what inning Linebrink comes in…. Obviously it does matter as every time he has come in since he has given up at least one run. Now good ol Mike Devereaux is trying to steal my thunder like he said this first….I don’t think so pal! I called this one before it even started. Linebrink is not a proven closer. He never has been and never will be. He is an 8th inning guy, and a solid one.

Riefert hook me up with a scouting job i will turn the minor league system around quickly.

By kenwo4life@aol.com on July 9, 2008 12:19 AM

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 8:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i thought it was over

oh no

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You kidding?

“4 life” is in his name!

Never trust a big butt and a smile.
Sox Machine

by Sox Machine on Jul 9, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I just got it

Wrestling reference, classic.

This is the kind of jamoke that Cubs fan was talking about in the “Have you seen this sign” post.

It’s likely he DOES listen to ICP and drive a Camaro…

I believe in Harvey, Illinois

by Hazymania on Jul 9, 2008 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

actually, ken is a bit more sophisticated than that.

iirc, he’s a teacher and seems pretty normal otherwise. he just holds the usual ridiculous opinions that “normal” fans have.

let’s be honest. we all get into those awkward conversations with these people at work, at family parties, or something. shoot, i had to sit there and just take it as someone at a 4th of july party went on about how dewayne wise was awesome and thome needed to be gotten rid.

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you just sat there

couldn’t you smack him upside the head and tell him that thome has been OPSin’ like a mofo for the last month (1.099).

i actually thought kenwo could be an SSS member posting outrageous sarcastic comments, but your observation makes much more sense.

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

another thing

do you think guys like kenwo are season ticket holders?

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

that guy isn't.

but, christ, talk to some season ticket holders sometime. i don’t know how you can watch that much baseball, especially of a single team, and not have the first clue about who is a good player and who is not.

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

if the first clue requires using more than the basic stats, then

i’m sure i would be really frustrated. but i think the ‘advanced’ use of stats to predict player’s performance is still an underground phenomenon in baseball. if mainstream media outlets applied it more, i think more fans would do the same.

that said, i don’t think you need sabrmetrics to determine that pablo should be removed from the roster, haha.

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i don't think it's all that hard to discern who is producing and who is not just from watching the game.

you don’t really even need stats to do, at least for offense, it if you watch 81ish games in person and presumably more on tv. who is hitting ball frequently? who is hitting ball far frequently? who is on base frequently? this ain’t rocket science.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

true dat

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

But you do have to take the emotion out of your decision-making

and stats tend to help that process. Folks get attached – must learn to detach and quantify as much as possible.

Except “grindiness.” That tends to trump all, especially on the South Side.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

is there a correlation between grindiness and the

degree of inferiority complex on the south side?

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

90% of statistics can be used to prove anything

50% of the time. witness how they were used to show how great pablo was.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hence the "tend to help the process"

Shoot, you above all people should recognize a qualifying statement that you can drive a truck through.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah

but its pretty easy to refute any statistical analysis, especially if the methodology is flawed.

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey... what you sayin Willis?

by Brush Back on Jul 9, 2008 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Last game I was at got Field level tix behind this ~40 year old woman who'd just had her first kid

Coulda sworn she reads SSS. Was quoting Crede’s LHP/LHB splits and moaning about BA’s lack of a clue at the plate. I was a little turned on, no doubt. Her kid had been to 14 games already and she was as old as the season.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I love her

Was she hot?

Wait, I don’t care. I love her.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Me too

But she was good looking.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey, That's My Wife

Ok, not really. She is ~40 and good looking (great legs) but our girls are (almost) 12 and 9 so, although she is able to give a pithy and succinct explanation as to why Pablo had to go, argue about the changes in Gavin Floyd from last year to this (and from April to June), wax rhapsodic about Robin Ventura and loves the chemistry between Steve Stone and Ed Farmer, the person you were sitting behind wasn’t my wife.

Quick story – I started dating my wife-to-be in the Fall of 1991. We were sitting on the floor of my bachelor pad (big empty room, giant TV, no furniture) watching the ALCS (Toronto v. Minnesota) when the announcer starts talking for some reason about how Jody Reed is one of the best second basemen in the AL. My not-yet-wife turns to me and says, and I quote, “You know, Jody Reed is a good player and he may be under-rated, but he’s no where near as good as Roberto Alomar.” (Recall that, in 1991, Alomar was only 23 and was not yet widely understood to be the HOF lock he became.) I damn near proposed on the spot.

The lesson: marry someone who loves, or has the capacity to learn to love, baseball. It gives you an endless supply of things to talk about.

by Landfill on Jul 9, 2008 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you bastard

count me as jealous

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How much for theee leettle girls?

(It’s been done, but I DON’T CARE – I relish the scene.)

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you see how i act on here with stupid people?

not appropriate for polite company. this is where i get it out.

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

what? we're not polite?

good man for not pummeling him ;)

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i don't treat everyone on here the same.

stupids gets one kind of response. non-stupids get another.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A sportswriter friend of mine just moved to NYC

He wrote for some podunk paper outside of Sacremento. Big sports fan obviously , but If I have to hear him use AVG as the end all be all of hitting I might just go FJM on him.

I’ve got him reading Athletics Nation at least, hopefully he starts to pickup some sabermetrics.

by madvillian on Jul 9, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

isn't it a shame that people like you and me have to share the world with the rest of these idiots, larry?

fuck you, that's my name!! you know why, mister? 'cause you drove a hyundai to get here tonight, I drove a eighty thousand dollar bmw. that's my name!!

by MarketMaker on Jul 9, 2008 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah you totally belong in the non-idiot group.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 5:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you forgot to add clearly!

His most recent E5, botching a sure double play, was classic, as was his recent Dybzynski moment – pinch-running, then quickly getting picked off.

Pablo taketh away, and he giveth, usually with the same hand. Pablo, we barely knew ye. - WU

by rhythm on Jul 9, 2008 5:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

and it was in how many of WU's marriage vows?

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You OPOS

Speaking of age, where’s your buddy Heinz? Haven’t seen his sunny posts for a few days now.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

This guy is hysterical

I really do want to see pictures of you pounding the living hell out of him next month. I will pay.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i'm considering creating a diary that's just kenwo's thoughts.

but i’m not sure if that’s just too vicious and will cause undue attention to this blog.

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

maybe a "best of" diary once a month?

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

so what time did you give up last night?

8:30 CDT here.

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

12:05 EST.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i gave up when SSH showed up

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

hahaha

that’s what we were all thinking

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yet another dumb question; this time on walking the batter intentionally

when they walk them, the keeper stands to side and pitcher throws it quite slowly to the keeper…

is the batter allowed to still go for the hit and has it ever happened.. ?

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 9:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

catcher sorry not keeper, lol thats cricket

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes and yes

The batter has to stay in the batter’s box.

Coffee is for closers.

by vince_ on Jul 9, 2008 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m sure you can find Miguel Cabrera doing that exact thing on youtube or some other video hosting site.

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cheers

found it!!

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=260622101, I’ll see if they still have it in the MLB.TV archive

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

and there was a funny incident

where the pitcher was trying to intentionally walk someone, but accidentally threw is down the middle. All parties involved looked baffled, and I think the ump eventually just called it a ball.

-Jeeves Life in the Cell

by jeeves on Jul 9, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

twinkiedoodles interested in beltre

http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/24090554.html?location_refer=Twins:highlightModules:3

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Why?

He’s expensive and mediocre.

by joewho112 on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

maybe you haven't been paying attention to what the twins have been sending out to stand next to third base.

e.g.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/l/lambmi01.shtml

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Twins have benched Mike Lamb...

Brian Buscher is playing 3B now and is having the typical Twins’ call-up hot streak.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"e.g."

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That was not vicious

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ssh doesn't usually get vicious.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well maybe some behaviour modification is in order

(spelling so the English hood can understand without having to ask for an explanation)

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

HULK ANGRY!!!

HULK SMASH!!!

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So you ARE deaf?

;)

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If they want a fat dominican who can play

third, send em Uribe and bring Ozuna back. Cowley and I had an all night candle vigil for our lost comprade.

"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."

by BobbySouthSide on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

This trade won't happen.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

two more positions to add to the spectrum?

How the heck is Uribe more valuable than Ozuna? Not only can Ozuna play 3rd, 2nd, and short but he can play outfield. Also, he can play hitter and base-stealer. Ozzie needs to get over his love affair with Uribe and designate him for assignment.

Posted by: Mike | Jul 8, 2008 8:02:08 PM

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:44 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pretty soon, Ozuna-backers will bring up that he is the emergency catcher.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i think you don't pay as much attention to the ozuna-holics as i do.

already have.

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i did yesterday (as I threw my hands up in panic)!

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

can't russel catch?

by hugh on Jul 9, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Only position he can't play

Led the Sally League in catcher’s interference. Got about seven bats lodged in the side of his thigh.

Gunned down runners at an astonishing 97.2 percent, though. And the 2.8 percent were balls that he threw into the scoreboard for fun.

Never trust a big butt and a smile.
Sox Machine

by Sox Machine on Jul 9, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

*through the scoreboard

fixed

...Speaking of which, that KC scoreboard is huge! What a thing of beauty. Hawk was literally in awe of it yesterday.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What do you expect, he just has to hand the ball to the second baseman.

by reardenmettle on Jul 9, 2008 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i guess he got bored with just running out there and tagging the runner himself...

"I was going to take it easy on you and make it fast, but then you had to go and play the fucking hero."

by Toonderstrook on Jul 9, 2008 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Uh-oh. Someone actually listens to Cowley.

by chrome on Jul 9, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i just clicked on the wikipedia link for ozuna in the memorial thread.

some good shit by some ozunamaniac who updated it:

Ozuna can play all three outfield positions and all four infield positions. General Manager Ken Williams has joked that he would consider playing Ozuna at catcher if needed.
In 2007 Ozuna was injured in a game against Tampa leading off the 1st inning. The White Sox were 24-20 or .545 and could never push a better winning percentage throughout the 2007 season.

Ozuna was sent down for assignment on July 8th 2008 due to GM Kenny Williams’ hope in Juan Uribe’s .206 average to remain constant as it has for the past 2 years. The Sox sent Ozuna down for assignment justifying, Uribe was able to play all three infield positions (presumably unlike Ozuna), even though Ozuna played more games at 3B and 2B than Uribe has had in the past 3 years.

Never was down about lack of playing time and when given time with the Sox, batted .290. His heart and love for his teammates will never be forgotten

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"His heart and love for his teammates will never be forgotten."

That is putrid.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i love the connection between his injury and the sox sucking for the rest of the year.

that’s one i hadn’t seen in awhile. the guy at least has a good memory. i’m wondering if hawk wrote this….

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

His Mom wrote that

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

his mom is in a coma.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

See? You make my point.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it's almost like the

podsednik paradox

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

can't find the link

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I prefer the lack of connection between Juan Uribe being a starting SS and not a utility player leading Ozuna to play more at 2B and 3B then Juan.

by Grinder in Training on Jul 9, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

pablo!!!! we will never forget you

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow, that looks like it was back when Ozuna was only 31.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Check out the birthdate on this Ozuna card...

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol I buy it!

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

how about the 62 rbi's in 98? i miss him already

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

me too

RIP PABLOOOOOO

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Also, he can play hitter and base-stealer."

this is without a doubt the best sentence that will be uttered on this website today.

fuck you, that's my name!! you know why, mister? 'cause you drove a hyundai to get here tonight, I drove a eighty thousand dollar bmw. that's my name!!

by MarketMaker on Jul 9, 2008 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

throws up in own mouth

"Lemonade was a popular drink back in the day and it still is.."

Gangstarr

by Big Daddy Kool on Jul 9, 2008 10:12 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

So Dye has generally been pretty decent in right this year.

But that fly ball in the 11th…ugliest play by a Sox outfielder this year?

by chrome on Jul 9, 2008 10:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Q has butchered a few. Not even close.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

but in a clutch situation...?

easily the worst. dye choked there. i question his heart. and the love he has for his teammates.

in all seriousness, you can’t let that happen in such a situation. inexcusable. you’re slow, JD. back the fuck up.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Did you see the deluge that was squeegied off the warning track

before the game? Tight hammies + wet grass + possible AS game appearance = conservative OF play.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

conservative outfield play in that situation is not letting a ball get over your head.

rather the whole point of that situation is to prevent the runner on first from scoring. dye royally, royally fucked that play up. i don’t care what the conditions are. you adjust to them and stop the guy from scoring.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, there is that

Like a prevent defence (also for hoodie) giving up a “Hail Mary”. I get it.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yea, but you can't just move Q to RF and Dye to LF

That would overturn the sacred ethos of the cosmos and cause armageddon to come in the form of Pablo Ozuna atop a black steed as he rides into the park and throws a flaming spear at the heart of Ozzie Guillen.

Of course the spear goes high and wide and hits a fan.

by madvillian on Jul 9, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DFA Dye and have Pablo play RF

by joewho112 on Jul 9, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So they should wait for a Metrodome appearance?

Optimist

by Peder on Jul 9, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I couldn't believe how quickly Dye gave up on that ball...

It was almost like Dye thought that he would have a better chance keeping the second run from scoring by playing it off the bounce and winging the ball in.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

consider where he was positioned, he probably did.

if aviles fell down.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Last Night's Game

A win we didn’t deserve but we will take it. Ramirez was great. Linebrink stinks and needs to get his act together or get rid of him. Jose Contreras needs to worry less about Pablo Ozuna and concentrate on pitchhing and learnig to cover first base on a grounder hit to the right side. This was something i learned in Little League

by Alan Snipes on Jul 9, 2008 10:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I was just going to post something

like that

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

please do. we could certainly use more kneejerk idiocy from the peanut gallery on here today.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

http://www.peanuts.org.uk/home.htm

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh. sorry.

it’s the peanut council over there.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it was a joke

you know those things that are supposed to make you laugh

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

nice try. you've posted enough stupid shit on here for me to know when someone is trying to save face.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Awesome signature...

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i was trying to come up with an analog to 24 inch pythons, too

i knew our resident wrestling aficionado and ardent ozuna hater would enjoy it.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not saving face

and more fool you for believing half of it

regards

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

yeah. a guy who has pitched fantastic the whole season strings together a poor 3 game stretch and he should be dumped. awesome post.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Linebrink doesn't stink...

I just think he stinks in save situations. He doesn’t seem to have the guts or the head for it. He gets a guy to two strikes and then throws a meatball.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yo didn't you read reardenmettle's post

i would like to see you back your shit up

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Linebrink doesn't like pitching in save situations and last night he said that he stinks...

Maybe there is more to it than just stats?

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And now Ozzie is going to a closer-by-committee...

Who knows, maybe Linebrink even asked Ozzie if he could opt-out of closing?

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or he's getting a guy who is in a slump out of a role which draws scrutiny.

he’s gone through similar stretches of poor performance in his career. and he wasn’t closing then.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

amusingly, however,

one could actually use stats to help prove or disprove such a theory. you know, by comparing performance in save and non-save situations? like how people have already used stats to show that the opposite of the theory you posit (that closers aren’t as good in non-save situations v. save situations) isn’t true. smaller sample size presumably for set up men but it certianly could (and maybe already has) been done.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yo

based on his career stats (maybe someone else can do a better selection, perhaps last 3 years), his save and non-save situations has been nearly identical:

Non save: 288.67 IP, WHIP 1.21, OPS 0.676, 3.02 ERA
Save: 163, WHIP 1.22, OPS 0.686, 3.20 ERA

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the problem with that, though,

is that the definition of save situation is too broad. i think ssh is getting at that he has trouble coming in in the ninth inning (or whatever the last inning is) and closing it out.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't know what it is, honestly...

but I have heard about Linebrink’s issues finishing games even before he was with the White Sox.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i don't think there's much to it

i’ve looked at his gamelog and there’s not much there i saw to support it. it’s perception more than anything. one remembers setbacks far more. your perception regarding hitting is a good example of this. if someone actually wants to do a legitimate study of it, i’m willing to admit my cursory analysis may be ill-founded. but i and others have generally found the whole “closer mentality” thing to be pretty much baseless.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you heard about it from who though? guys like Cowley and Phil Rogers

are everywhere and guys like Joe Poz are few and far between. Why would Linebrink be an exception to the general rule? The whole “choking” phenomenon is a case of letting a good narrative interrupt the facts imo.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

characterizing save situation

yeah, got it

"I got the shotgun. You got the briefcase. It's all in the game though, right? "

by onlysoxfaninboston on Jul 9, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think you see us too frequently over-humping stats...but evidence is pretty crucial to making arguments

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Harvard/Shmarvard: he and Colin should've gotten a room.

Besides, it’s clear that guts and heart trump stats ebvery time.

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I never said that...

but maybe there is more to it. Linebrink prefers not to close. Maybe there is a reason behind that like nerves or something.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i think it's your fault...just leave his ass alone and let him rock out

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh man

I see a sensitive rocker in this picture. I’m feeling a ballad coming on.

I believe in Harvey, Illinois

by Hazymania on Jul 9, 2008 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

worse...sensitive C & W ballad

by RoyEgan on Jul 9, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If we do, should I do a fanpost recap or stick that shit front and center on the main page.

Either way, I hope to use the word “santorum” frequently.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ohhhh colin you are the best

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

All I know about last nights game is its good to see larry in full mode again!

Makes for great reading.

And I have to agree with kenwo4life – how could Chef Ramsey pick Christina to run his kitchen instead of Petroza? Brought the guy to tears.

by Brush Back on Jul 9, 2008 11:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That chick was 25 and not authorative at all!

kind of reminded me of Jerry Manuel working in the kitchen. Petroza got on that ugly chick for making sh*tty onion rings and got that team pulled together…that Christina chick was just flopping in the wind like the “L” Flag at Wrigley.

I must say, after reading some of the posts, Larry definetly brought his ‘A’ game today…not sure if it is all the sudafed and coffee bombs he does in the morning or if he is on a twinkie high again.

"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."

by BobbySouthSide on Jul 9, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Extra pitcher....

Any word yet if Bobby officially went on the D.L., and if so who is being brought up? I would think they’d want that extra arm on hand for tonight considering last night’s game.
Too bad McDougal hasn’t “figured it out” down in Charlotte….it’d be really nice to bring up a guy with his stuff/experience to throw in the late innings. Oh well…

by stanchar on Jul 9, 2008 12:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm guessing Wassermann...

Wassermann has torn it up since being sent down to AAA.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lucas Harrell

Thought I heard 670 reporting he was going to be brought up, but I havent seen anything thats official yet.

by lod773 on Jul 9, 2008 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not gonna happen...

He’s pitching poorly in Double A.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, actually it seems like he is pitching well in Double A...

but he doesn’t seem like a very likely call-up.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

dont shoot the messenger

just relaying what I heard on wsox here.

by lod773 on Jul 9, 2008 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What is wsox?

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wscr 670 am

by lod773 on Jul 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

he was pitching well in AA prior to his injury setback.

he just got back to bham from his rehab assignments at lower levels and hasn’t pitched there yet.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

damnit

beat me to the punch on that one by a full hour.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's been on rehab

His last start was in A ball on July 3. It looks like he’s stretched out and ready to go though.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Esteban Loaiza was in the dugout last night

so I’m assuming it is him

-Jeeves Life in the Cell

by jeeves on Jul 9, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fucking Twins...

3-0 Twins against Josh Beckett already.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

seriously?

lose the first two heartbreakers and then knock of Beckett? i do not like them.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

4-3 Red Sox - bot 4

Mosi Tatupu! Mosi Tatupu!

by Nordhagen on Jul 9, 2008 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

4-3 Red Sawx, now!!!

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you're going to kill me with this stuff

ULTERIOR MOTIVE??!?

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i gotta say i was impressed that he re-posted when boston took the lead.

"I was going to take it easy on you and make it fast, but then you had to go and play the fucking hero."

by Toonderstrook on Jul 9, 2008 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol, nah he did it last night too iirc

SSH is a crusty feller, but his heart’s in the right place. Plus being a new parent has to be a huge mental stress.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Parenting is way overrated

TV raises kids now anyways, what the fuck do adults have to do now?

by Ozzie Montana on Jul 9, 2008 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't know. I'll tell you when I become one.

That could be a ways off though.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I hate you, colintj.

They always say that you try to hurt the ones you love.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ask your folks - being an old parent is no picnic

Get a job! Save an old person’s life!

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

there's a reason july scoreboard watching isn't good for your health

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

unless the Twins lose. Did you know smiling is healthy?

When she farts, a little rainbow comes out...

by Chiburb on Jul 9, 2008 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

one could wait until after the game ends, hmmm

or maybe out of the top of the first at least?

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

details details

*dismissive wave

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i'm going down with the ship, dang nabbit

they can’t stop me!

the only thing that’ll get me to stop scoreboard/standings watching is if the Sox lose first or the lead gets to be ginormous. even then, though, then it feels good to look.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I saw this posted at SoxTalk...

Link:

From what Mully and Hanley made it sound like, Contreras yelled at Ozzie in a meeting and then stormed out of the room after the Ozuna decision was announced, and then refused to talk with Ozzie during the game.

If true… lol.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That would have been

hilarious to listen to. Neither of them probably understood what the other was saying.

"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."

by BobbySouthSide on Jul 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

We won. Families fight. Arrests are made. Time is served.

Wagons are circled. Resentments are buried.

Until later….

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wow

that’s pretty hilarious.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Larry wins...

D.J. Carrasco is the callup to replace Jenks.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

excellent.

he’s pitched well enough to deserve a look.

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What, you are blown 4 ways from Sunday on this post

and you don’t take a bow?

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Larry is actually

herm schneider.

"Jenks, who was never afraid to say "no" to a hamburger..."

by BobbySouthSide on Jul 9, 2008 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

well, i don't think i actually called it.

i wanted carrasco to come up because he’s looked pretty deserving ever since ST (despite his presence in extended ST, which i heard was because of family reasons).

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ironic that Carrasco gets called up...

for the Royals, his one and only MLB team.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I also meant the kudos for yesterday/last night's posts (probably should've said "thread" - still learning)

Take a fookin’ compliment, Fer Chrissakes. And a bow. En fuego, kid.

CWS: Slashing negative expectations since May, 2008.

by winningugly on Jul 9, 2008 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The nice thing is that he can pitch multiple innings.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

uh huh

especially after last night’s long affair

"What'cha gonna do brother when Ozunamania runs wild on you?"

by larry on Jul 9, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

was he a long man in Charlotte, or was that just the sort of pitcher they wanted him to be?

old school 2-3 inning guy? i would love to see teams work on getting two really good relievers and work on stretching them out that far so they could alternate every other game or so.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry for the bad info

by lod773 on Jul 9, 2008 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And I guess this is why the Sox had to DFA Ozuna even with the Jenks to the D.L. move...

The Sox had to free up a spot on the 40-man roster to add D.J. Carrasco to it.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice

Carrasco has looked better than any of the other non-Wasserman pitchers for Charlotte and has some MLB pedigree (96 ERA+ isn’t horrible) and is only 31 years old. He should be a useful inning eating reliever for the next time a starter gets roughed up or a game goes extras.

by Bull Pain on Jul 9, 2008 12:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Walks seem to be his biggest problem...

Sort of like Masset.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

as long as he can get ground balls...

i don’t want to see any more of this tomfoolery on this guestbook. and get off my motherfucking lawn.---good ole larry

by furby2056 on Jul 9, 2008 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He gets a toooon of groundballs

Check it

7.4% isn’t really too bad.

are you trying to use stats around here? what the fuck do you think this is? - MM

by colintj on Jul 9, 2008 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Juan "Roider" Rincon is back...

Indians purchased the contract of RHP Juan Rincon from Triple-A Buffalo.
Rincon was let go by the Twins last month after posting a 6.11 ERA in 28 innings and didn’t fare much better at Triple-A after signing a minor league deal with the Indians, allowing seven runs - four earned - in 5 1/3 innings. Despite that he’s back in the majors and will get a look in middle relief.

by SSH2005 on Jul 9, 2008 12:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

right I'm being serious now

I’ve never visited the USA and want to come to Chicago some time around next May / June. Thing is, I have a criminal record, although it was some time ago. I’ve heard this can make it hard to get a visa. Is this true? Does anyone have any experience of this sort of thing?

Any advice etc. would be very much appreciated.

Sox fan from England, marching on together

by hoodlight on Jul 9, 2008 1:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs