South Side Sox: FanPosts

Why the nickname bacon sucks and why you should all stop using it.

2009-11-06T21:28:29Z

Q: Where the hell did this ridiculous nickname come from?

A: Mully and Hanley

Q: Why is Bacon not a funny nickname?

A: Mully and Hanley

Q: What the hell does Bacon have to do with Gordon Beckham?

A: ?

Bacon is really becoming an obnoxious nickname for many reasons. First off, some loudmouth moron and a stuttering buffoon on the score tagged our savior with this nickname. Secondly, this nickname has apparently caught steam... I have seen numerous SSS posters refer to Gordon as "bacon" to my dismay. Why? Bacon is a fatty protein used for many dishes. Beckham is a lean mean right center hitting machine. No correlation there.Lastly, I don't get it, stop using it. Peace.

Ozzie Joining FOX For World Series

2009-10-22T04:00:56Z

Fox Sports adds Guillen to booth

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/10/21/guillen.fox/index.html

Baseball fans, get ready for a bleeping interesting analyst. SI.com has learned that Ozzie Guillen, the colorful and occasionally profanity-laden manager of the White Sox, has been hired by Fox Sports to serve as a pre- and postgame analyst for the network's World Series coverage. He will debut alongside Chris Rose, Eric Karros and Mark Grace on Oct. 28 at 7:30 p.m. ET. Guillen will also file reports for Fox Sports Espanol.

Dear SSS, aka the ball busters who claim to be my biggest fans...

2009-10-19T14:45:59Z

Dear SSS-

I got your letter, and have to admit, I was totally taken by surprise. I mean, we had a lot of good times together, didnt we? I mean, the World Series, for christsakes? Doesn't that matter anything to you?

Yeah, I read you loud and clear- I am too proud to try and beg, but I want to point out a few things you may not have considered, in all your collective Baseball Wisdom:

1- You called me, remember? And what did I do for you, when you needed me? .304 BA, 2 errors... TWO! sure, I may have played some balls badly, but hey, who else were you going to get? You want to have Ramirez as your leadoff hitter? Puhleezee.... I have a 1.8 WAR, for crying out loud, while your precious Q had a -0.5 WAR.. You really think you are better off with him than me?

2- I told you I had figured the health thing out, and this season proved it: I know how to keep myself healthy,, and the beating I took on the basepaths is proof of that. All those late and miss-timed slides would have broken a lesser man (Hows Quentin doing, btw? You see JD throwing himself around like me? I dont think so...) I have gotten more gloves to the face than any other player in MLB (except Nick Punto, maybe), and it was all for you, SSS, all for you.

3- My wife... you wont have her to Ogle anymore, ok? Keep your Damn eyes to yourself, Mister, and no more google image searches!!!

4- You want to get a Free Agent and replace me? good freaking luck- Worked out well for Milton Bradley and the Cubs... have fun with that process.

5- I get on YOUR nerves? Really? of all the crap things about this club this year, I am the person you single out to spurn? Really? Do I have to actually say the names, Linebrink, Colon, Contreras, Dye, Quentin? Hell, even Jenks let you down more than I did this year, and you say you are tired of me? Really.... well, you can take your precious savior and shove him up Jenks prodigious ass for all I care.

6- I'll go now... Back to Milwaukee where they dont crap all over their MVP.

Have a good 2010- Hope you choke on it. And next year, dont come crying to me, telling me you made a mistake, you were wrong... I am not even going to pick up the phone- I will just hit delete on the voicemail.

And, from now on, it is MR. Podsednik to you.

I Gotta Get Drunk (with da Cheat) And I Sure Do Regret It.

2009-10-13T22:20:23Z

So it seems the SSS post-season meet-up has tentatively been scheduled for this weekend in the southburbs, specifically Tinley Park. Cheat, feigning knowledge of the area, has passed the buck to me, or rather, us, down here living the dream since there seems to be several SSS'ers rocking the suburbs.

Im open to either night leaning slightly toward friday, but I think our starting point should probably be Holstein's due to its close proximity to the Rock Island Line that runs from the Windy City clear out to Joliet. If you get off at the first Tinley Park stop the bar is right across the tracks. Also in walking distance are Teehans and Durbins, and I guess Cuzins and the old Tinley Pub are within a mile as well. Durbins or Holsteins probably have the best tvs, and as I mentioned before theres free pizza at holsteins on fridays, but both places will likely have live music interrupting the baseball at some point. There are tons of other bars in the area however, and we should have enough cars to haul the train commuters(cheat, om) since skanch, kenwo, myself and dr. emily lizard are all relatively local. (The thought of this motley crew just put a smile on my face actually, and no kenwo, not that crue)

So answer the poll as to what day works best for everyone and lets start to figure out a head count. [Note by The Cheat, 10/13/09 6:47 PM CDT]: Removed the poll. It's Friday.

Off of the top of my head Im guessing about 10 will commit and myself plus two other people will show up.

One of those two could be you!

White Sox Minor League Update: Round Up the Usual Suspects

2009-10-11T22:10:39Z

No one bothered to post their own prospect list in response to mine. Perhaps it was neglect. Perhaps it was fear. Either way, you can participate in sister site Minor League Ball's community list for the White Sox here.

The Arizona Fall League starts Tuesday October 13. You can follow the league on Twitter here. We'll have daily updates on the White Sox players who are participating (roster here). Also we'll have infrequent updates on the other fall/winter leagues, along with the usual smattering random news and reports.

OC gets FIAL at being BO

2009-10-08T22:19:20Z

OCab gets a public shaming

Much deserved ripping by Dan Brown of Yahoo's Big League Stew. Much like Lloyd Benson once said..."I knew Bo Jackson sir, and you are No Bo Jackson!" To fill up the additional words required, I will share my favorite Bo moment- His going Back to Back to Back with Robin Ventura and Frank Thomas on an Easter Weekend homestand my wife and I attended. Shortly thereafter she got her hip replaced, having needed it done since childhood, saying "If he can hit a homer with a fake hip, I oughta be able to do ok..."

SSS Time Machine Tournament West Division Series Game 4

2009-10-05T21:45:49Z

1920 (The Wizard) vs. 1993 (Vince)

Results: 1920-5, 1993-4

WP: Eddie Cicotte (2-1), LP: Bobby Thigpen (0-1)

HR: Frank Thomas (2)

It took twelve innings and came a sac fly away from a thirteenth, but the 1920 squad held on to advance to the West Championship series. 1993 had it in the bag with a 2-1 lead in the ninth with one out when Roberto Hernandez coughed up a groundout that scored Shano Collins from third. Shano Collins wins PotG for driving in the winning two runs in the 12th. 1920 wins series 3-1 and advances to play 2000 in the West Championship Series.

Meta-post:

I hate the fact that every time I restart this series, something happens. While typing this post up, i found out that my wrist surgery has been moved up to next Tuesday. Between now and then, I have 5 tests, a paper, and a project due. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like the series is going to end any time soon. Sorry guys.

SSS Time Machine Tournament Central Division Series Game 4

2009-10-05T21:35:43Z

1983 (ryno/hoysstash) vs. 1994 (U-God)

Results: 1994- 12, 1983- 6

WP: Alex Fernandez (2-0), LP: Britt Burns (0-1), SV: Jose Deleon (1)

HR: Tom Paciorek (1), Vance Law (1), Ron Karkovice 2 (2)

The Strike Squad defeated the Winning Ugly team in a beat down to force a game 5. 1983 got off to an early lead with a 2-run shot by Wimpy. Unfortunately for them, 1994 would score twelve runs before 83 would get back on the board. Britt Burns was shelled in his 3.1 innings, giving up eight runs on three walks and nine hits. Alex Fernandez didn't fare much better going 5.2 while giving up six runs, one walk, and six hits. Jose Deleon came on in relief and didn't allow a single baserunner while striking out five over the final 3.1 frames. The PotG goes to Ron Karkovice for his 2-5 performance, which doesn't seem to impressive until you realize the two hits were both grandslams. Series is tied 2-2.

Closing Time, Revisited SemiSonic Style

2009-10-05T18:34:30Z

Closing time
Open all the lockers and let Bobby out into the world
Closing time
Turn off all of the lights on over US Cellular Field
Closing time
Ozzie put in Linestink so finish your whiskey or beer
Closing time
You don't have to go home but you can't stay here

I know who I want to be the DH
I know who I want to start in Center
I know who I want to Play Right Field

Closing time
Time for Kenny Williams to work the Winter Meetings
Closing time
This season is ovaah, and sadly Pods was your MVP
So gather up your jackets, move it from the bullpen
I hope you have found a leadoff man...

Closing time
Every new Latin Starter comes from some other Latin Starter's release.

I know who I want to play in center
I know who I want to be the DH
I know who I want to take me home
Mrs Podsednik and Kotsay...

Turning in the Grades

2009-10-05T06:01:28Z

With the 2009 season officially coming to a close, it is time for the annual report cards. Since I am the teacher, I will be the first to turn in my grades on the 2009 White Sox.

via www.midwestsportsfans.com

AJ Pierzynski: The backstop had an above average season. He is the first catcher to finish with a .300 average in Sox history. AJ only managed to crank 13 homers and drove in 49 runs. I would have liked to see more run production out of him, but he was one of the very few consistent hitters in the Sox lineup. Overall, he called good games, blocked bad pitches and struggled throwing runners out. Final Grade- B.

Paul Konerko: The captain had a much better season in 2009 than he did in 2008. He led the club with 28 homers, was surprisingly consistent for most of the year and finished with a .277/.353/.489. He played extremely good defense and totaled 59 extra base hits and threw in a rare stolen base for good measure. I don't think you could have expected him to do much more than he did under the best circumstances this season. Final Grade- B+

Gordon Beckham: The Savior came to us in June and after a rough start to his career ended up with a .270/.347/.460 line. 28 doubles, 14 homers and 63 RBI's later and He looks like a future star for many years to come. Throw in the fact that he learned 3rd base on the fly and improved by leaps and bounds, and the sky is the limit. The average dipped in the final month a bit, but you couldn't have expected much more from Beckham. Final Grade- A-

Alexei Ramirez- The Cuban Missile really struggled the first month and a half of the season, even being benched at one point for 3 games. He rallied late to end up at .277/.333/.389. His power numbers dipped a bit as he only managed 30 extra base hits and 68 RBI's. He threw in 14 SB's. In the field, Ramirez made some incredible plays and botched some very easy ones. He did come a long way from his terrible April/May so I will give him the benefit of the doubt. Final Grade: C+

Jermaine Dye- JD started out like a beast, sticking over .300 with 20 homers at the all star break. From then on, however, it was all down hill for the former World Series MVP. Dye finished the season on a terribly bad note and wound up sticking .250/.340/.453. He did total 27 homers and 81 RBI, each good for 2nd on the team. He made some good plays in the outfield when he could get to the ball, however, he can't get to too many anymore. I'd like to grade him higher, however I can't look past his horrendous finish. Final Grade: C-

Scott Podsednik- Scotty Pods was brought in on a minor league deal, and arrived in the bigs May 1st. He went on to lead the team with 163 hits, a .304 BA, 6 triples and 30 stolen bases. His base running was sometimes maddening, as was his outfield play, but if anyone would have told you in Spring Training that Scott Podsednik would lead the Sox in most offensive categories you would have shat yourself. For that, only one grade is possible. Final Grade: A

Carlos Quentin- Quentin was coming off of a self inflicted injury to his wrist, but did show power early in the season. Then his foot problems put him on the DL for quite awhile. Quentin managed to come back and play in 99 games this season. His average was in the .230's for most of the season, but he enjoyed a late surge the last week of 2009 to put his power numbers at 21 homers and 56 RBI's. His left field play was suspect at best and awful at worst. Final Grade- D+

Chris Getz- Getz had a decent rookie season in the big leagues, hitting .261 with 25 stolen bases. Numerous injuries,however, only put him on the field for 107 games. He played solid defense at Second Base, and at times looked very solid with the stick. As with Quentin, however, if you want good grades from KenWo, you better show up to class. Final Grade- C-

Alex Rios- Rios was acquired from the Blue Jays for nothing but 60 million dollars and played like he was worth .60 cents in his time with the Sox, hitting .197 with 3 homers in his 150 plate appearances. It was comforting to have an outfielder who could close the gap well, but coming to a club in contention and proceeding to take a dump will not earn you a passing grade. Final Grade- F

Jim Thome- Thome did what Thome does. Low average, good power, high on base percentage. He did what was expected of him and probably would have led the club in HR's and RBI had he stayed aboard. 2009 was nothing special for Mr. Incredible by any means, but he met expectations. Final Grade- B

Jayson Nix- The primary utility man for the Sox showed some signs of pop, hitting 12 homers in 255 AB's. He did strike out a whole bunch and wasn't as solid in the field as we all would have hoped. Final Grade- C

Ramon Castro- Caught Jose Contreras for a string of good starts and caught Mark Buehrle's Perfect Game. Other than that, he didn't bring much to the table. Final Grade- F

Mark Kotsay- After he was brought over for Brian Anderson, Kotsay batted .303 for the Sox, with 3 homers and 18 RBI in only 109 ABs. He played well at first base and in right field and contributed more to Chicago in 2 months than Anderson did in 4 seasons. He also has a hot wife. Final Grade- A

Dewayne Wise- Started the season as the starting CF, didn't last long, made historic catch and threw a bunch of runners out in limited time. Final Grade- D

Brent Lillibridge- Hit .158 with a late surge to get to 3 RBI's. Had cool theme music, but it isn't enough to pass him. Final Grade- F

Wilson Betemit- Played 3rd base like a bad little leaguer. Final Grade- F

Josh Fields- Was given the starting 3rd base job, and had it taken away by a guy who played another position and was less than a year into his professional career. Horrible defense, can't hit a fastball. Final Grade- F

Pitchers

Mark Buehrle- Mark had a great first half and threw one of the most memorable games in White Sox history. Struggled down the stretch when he was needed most, but still posted 13 W's, 3.84 ERA and 213 IP. Also smacked a homer. Final Grade- B

John Danks- Danks finished the season 13-11 and led the starters with a 3.77 ERA. He wasn't as consistent as he was in 2008, but did indeed put up another solid MLB season. He totaled 200.1 innings and 149 strikeouts. Final Grade- B

Gavin Floyd- Gavin wasn't as spectacular as he was in 2008. He struggled early on, then was dominant and then developed a hip issue which hindered his last handful of starts. Only walked 59 guys while striking out 163 in 193 innings while finishing 11-11. Final Grade- B

Freddy Garcia- Garcia started 9 games for the Sox after struggling with injuries the past few years. He came up and posted a 3-4 record with a 4.34 ERA, and really did pitch better than those numbers. While his velocity is still down, he found a way to get guys out. Final Grade- B+

Jake Peavy- Peavy was immaculate in his 3 starts, going 3-0 with a 1.35 ERA. He struck out 18 in 20 innings and gave the Sox faithful reason to be joyous for 2010. However, he blocked an earlier trade which would have sent him to the Sox and then got injured. By the time the Sox did acquire him, he needed a lot of rehab time (even more so after taking a liner off the arm). One can only wonder how this season would have turned out if he accepted the trade in May. However, I can only grade him on the time he spent here. Final Grade- A

Jose Contreras- Contreras came back from a major injury to secure a spot in the rotation. He went on to prove he wasn't quite ready as he couldn't control his splitter. He came back from the minors and had a nice run, before a series of self-induced collapses led him to be dealt to the Rockies. Finished 5-13 with a 5.42 ERA. Final Grade- D-

Bartolo Colon- Colon was 3-6 with a 4.19 ERA, but injuries and a lack of commitment to the organization lead to his demise. Final Grade- F

DJ Carrasco- This guy saved the pitching staff numerous times this season. Finished 5-1 with a 3.76 ERA and kept the Sox in many games they would have otherwise been blown out in. Pitched 93 innings out of the bullpen and was there any time he was needed. DJ did a remarkable job in 2009. Final Grade- A

Matt Thornton- Thornton has become the premier left handed set up man in all of baseball. He finished 6-3 with a 2.74 ERA and 87 K's in 72.1 innings. Showed late in the season he may be ready to close in 2010. Final Grade- A

Bobby Jenks- Jenks finished 3-4 with a 3.71 ERA while Saving 29 games at an 82.8 percent clip. His strike out to walk ratio was good at 16:49 in 53.1 innings, yet he had a tough time staying healthy. Jenks was passable when available, but wasn't very reliable in 2009. Final Grade- B-

Scott Linebrink- Linebrink was pretty terrible in 2009. He posted a 3-7 record with a 4.66 ERA (I can't believe it was that low). It seemed like he only could throw his fastball for strikes. Hopefully he finds it next year because with his contract, he will be back despite the Final Grade- F

Octavio Dotel- Octavio would sometimes blow up, but for the most part posted a good season in 2009. He finished 3-3 with a 3.32 ERA and struck out 75 over 62.1 innings. I'm not so sure why the Sox are throwing him out the door. He wasn't spectacular but wasn't bad either. Final Grade- C+

Tony Pena- Pena came aboard midseason and went on to appear in 35 games for the Sox. He had some good moments, but most will remember him for giving up a few walk off hits. He finished 1-2 with a 3.75 ERA while wearing silver and black. Final Grade- C

Randy Williams- Williams pitched in 25 games for the Sox and did a credible job when he was put in his situation of getting out lefties. Troube came about when he was asked to do more than that leading to an 0-1 record with a 4.58 ERA. Struck out 22 over 17.2 innings and looks like a decent LOOGY option. Final Grade- C

Clayton Richard- Richard was a roller coaster. Sometimes he looked unbelievable and others he looked awful. He wasn't very good coming out of the bullpen early on and can't throw to first on a grounder, but he did net us Peavy with some solid performances midseason. Final Grade- C

Dan Hudson- Hudson pitched 18.2 late season innings capping off his rise from the A level. He looked like a very viable option for the near future. Very limited sample size, but Final Grade- A.

Management

Ozzie Guillen (and staff)- Ozzie had what I believe to be his best season as manager in 2008. In 2009, it was the exact opposite. He was late on making changes to the lineup, very bad on utilizing his bullpen and ranted way too often for anyone other than Bobby Knights liking. He mishandled the Rios acquisition and for the most part was a move behind all season long. Final Grade- D

Kenny Williams- We came into the season with no legit CF, 2 injury prone starting pitchers and a failure waiting to happen at 3rd base. He provided no replacements for Nick Swisher (FNS) and Javier Vazquez. He did pick up Podsednik, who turned out to be gold, and did bring in Peavy and Rios for not only 2009 but many years to come. His move of Brandon Allen for Tony Pena will be questioned like it was Gio Gonzalez. He did acquire a nice bench player in Mark Kotsay for Brian Anderson. Final Grade- C-.... with a chance to improve with solid years to come from Rios/Peavy.

CHICAGO WHITE SOX- FINAL GRADE- C This team was almost the definition of average. They finished 79-83, didn't go on too many long losing streaks or winning streaks, just kind of pissed the season away.

"Blame it on Rio." Or "How I learned to stop worrying and love the Olympics for 72 hours."

2009-10-03T20:47:33Z

Every story must begin with a relatable anecdote: I worked at WTMJ Radio in Milwaukee for 5 years. It is the flagship station of the Green Bay Packers radio network. This happened to be during Favre's glory years, so playoff appearances were pretty much a guarantee.

Every year, fan expectations followed a predictable pattern. They were cautiously optimistic on Monday morning. "We're facing a formidable opponent, we shouldn't take (team) for granted," they would say. By Friday, they were yelling "SUPER BOWL!!! TITLETOWN!!!! LOMBARDI!!!! WOOOOOO!!!" The Packers would then lose on Sunday, and the same people who were cautiously optimistic just seven days before came into work looking like their dog died.

Which brings us to Friday.

The Picasso wore a "medal." Turns out it said "participant" on the other side. I heard there were 20 thousand people in Daley Plaza for the Olympic announcement.

I'm willing to bet most of them were ambivalent about the Olympic bid...until the hype machine cranked up this week.

It wasn't too hard to get caught up in the craziness. Every news story leading up to the Friday's IOC meeting was a sign Chicago had it in the bag.

Oprah was going to Copenhagen! Obama was going to give a speech! The national media will be here to cover the announcement!

Even Charlie Gibson was flying to Chicago to anchor ABC's World News. They must have some inside info!

The rally itself was a combination of screaming Olympians and a halfway-decent cover band. Swimmer Rowdy Gaines was the master of ceremonies. Scottie Pippen pumped up the crowd. The lead singer of the cover band flawlessly copied the vocal styles of Donald Fagen, Michael McDonald, and Robert Plant. Cubs fans brought their "It's Gonna Happen!" signs. Ronnie Woo Woo got kicked out of the press area.

The IOC opened the vote at 10:12. It began with each bid city getting assigned a random number. Chicago got 4, and everyone cheered. The vote closed five minutes later. IOC President Jacque Rogge then said Chicago got the fewest votes, and was out. The four year effort to land the 2016 games was over in two seconds. People at Daley Plaza had no idea what to do next.

I had to do a live shot on WGN, and it wasn't that good. I had no clue what to say. I had to resist the temptation to say "we gone!"

The people who brought the "It's Gonna Happen!" signs took markers and wrote in "It's NOT Gonna Happen!" The signs remained pristine through TWO consecutive playoff three and outs, but the fans break out the markers for a failed Olympic bid?

I didn't see anyone crying. Most said "screw it" and went back to work. Those who did stick around cheered when the IOC picked Rio. Classy.

Rio's Olympic rally was a huge event on Copacabana beach. Made the Daley Plaza rally look like the dog and pony show it really was.

In the end, I got to interview Scottie Pippen (asked him if the IOC members' memories of the original Dream Team could help the Chicago bid), and I have another credential to add to my hall of failure:

There will be a lot of blame to go around in the coming days and weeks. I think it's unfair to pin this on Obama. Daley, of course, will have to wear it.

I, on the other hand, blame Mark Buehrle. We haven't been awarded a single Olympics since his perfect game.

No backpacks allowed - will MLB follow suit?

2009-09-29T23:04:30Z

Backpacks not allowed here

NFL issues new stadium 'bag policy'? Does this just affect the Bears? What's the deal?

NOT ALLOWED:

Any size backpack
Fanny packs
Duffel bags
Shoulder purses
Non-fitting, over-sized camera cases
All other types of bags, regardless of size

ALLOWED AFTER INSPECTION:

Small handheld 'clutch' purses
Diaper bags (with related items)
Medical bags
Clear zip-lock bags for personal food
Clear Bears Pro Shop bags with merchandise from stadium stores
Cameras (6" lens max.) & binoculars with fit-to-size cases
Above items must fit into 12" x 12" template box at gates

Will the MLB follow suit - if so, that will drastically reduce the games I go to, how about you?

I Like the White Sox: Reflections

2009-09-29T00:20:21Z

Aww fuck it. That's all you can say this year.

We all got together and saw Gavin Floyd find his balls this year, and saw some excellent fireworks.

We witnessed history as Paul Konerko and Jermaine Dye both hit home run number 300 back to back against the team who may very well win this cursed division.

We watched as Scott Linebrink gave up home run after home run after home run after home run...

We saw history written as Mark Buehrle threw a perfect game and then a few more perfect innings afterwards.

We watched as Alexei Ramirez forgot to play shortstop some of the time.

We watched as a new star emerged and for Beckham not to win rookie of the year would be simply unacceptable.

We saw a great prospect get traded for the sequel of Tony Pena, which usually isn't as good as the original.

We watched as goggles and Fields butchered third base quite worse than people with long fingernails.

We watched and waited for Q to return to his dreamy self, and ended up enduring a nightmare.

We watched big Jim hit many homeruns, only to be reunited with his good friend who took a substance, but didn't kill anyone.

We watched as Scotty Podsednik wowed us all with his awesome batting average, his inability to field, and unbelievable base running errors.

We watched Bobby Jenks blow a few saves, but it must have been the kidney stones.

We watched as President Barrack Obama mispronounced Dwayne Wise's name.

We saw a $70 million player join our team to give us $10 output.

We saw our GM make a splash at free agency deadline with 2 minutes left by signing a Cy Young winning pitcher who was on the DL.

We saw our manager take his frustrations out on the poor NCAA.

Yes it was quite a year here in the south side. In some ways good, and others bad.

But at the end of the day it all boils down to one thing...

I like the White Sox.

I really appreciated all your comments, and loved meeting you all on the fateful night in early June. Especially drinking many beers with LT. Thanks for being here, and thanks for making my morning more fun coming here to the good ol' SSS.

Mike

Do we need to see the youngsters vs. Cleveland?

2009-09-28T06:36:49Z

With the White Sox eliminated from playoff contention, Ozzie Guillen has promised to play some of the "young players" vs. the Tribe this week. Is this really necessary?

I for one don't think this is such a novel idea. Yes, I am excited to see Tyler Flowers get a few starts vs. the Indians. However, as i perused the article I ran across this quote:

"I would assume now that we're out officially, there's going to be more just trying to see what the young guys are going to be able to do for next year," Lillibridge said. "I've been working out every day, ready to have a chance to play, and playing a couple games in a row would be awesome. But there's not a lot of stuff I can do to prepare myself anymore than what I did in the offseason and Triple-A and a little bit of time here. But I'm looking forward to any chance I get to play."

That is all well and good Mr. Lillibridge, but other than Flowers, why in the world would we need to see these guys play? Are we really going to have to sit through a game where our "youngsters" are in the lineup? Haven't we seen more than enough of Brent Lillibridge and Josh Fields? Is Dewayne Wise considered a youngster? Other than Tyler Flowers, none of the other guys deserve to get the call these next 3 games. When the calender flipped to September, maybe the Sox should have made better use of their call ups, because the guys that we called up other than Flowers and Daniel Hudson don't need to be seen this year, next year or ever again.

Is Carlos Quentin the unluckiest player in baseball?

2009-09-26T20:17:15Z

Well probably not "the" unluckiest, but he does have the 3rd lowest BABIP in baseball (for players with >350 PA, data from fangraphs). His BABIP is .226, just ahead of General Soreness and Jay Bruce.

While Quentin does seem to have a predilection for low BABIP (his career BABIP is .259 and last year it was .280) .226 is unsustainably bad. Well what should his BABIP be? Fortunately THT has a xBABIP calculator:

http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/fantasy/article/simple-xbabip-calculator/

Plugging Carlos '09 into the formula we get an xBABIP of .286 as opposed to the .226 he has. That would have given Carlos 16 extra hits, raising his BA from .232 to .268. Depending on how many of those were doubles we're talking about a 70-80 point increase in OPS. So .820 or so instead of his .747 OPS.

The caveat here is that Carlos seems to have consistently low BABIP that are sig. lower than what xBABIP would predict. As an example '08 Carlos had an xBABIP of .300 but a real BABIP of .280. So maybe Carlos has a "talent" for low BABIP that the model is unable to pick up or maybe next year Carlos will fall right into his xBABIP. Or maybe the next iteration of the xBABIP calculator that Carty and Dutton are working on will model Carlos better.

Obviously the difference between .286 and .226 is much greater than the difference between .300 and .280 and so I think the evidence points to Carlos being quite unlucky this year. Even if you regress his BABIP to his career .259 BABIP you get significant improvement ( 30-40 points of OPS).

So Carlos probably should have had an OPS somewhere between 30-80 points higher than he did.

I think we can conclude that while Carlos probably wasn't "the" unluckiest player he was quite unlucky and that indicates a better year is in store for next year. However, in order to return to Q! status he will need to bring his walk rate and HR/FB back up to '08 rates.

Ask and You Shall Receive, Peavy Dominant

2009-09-26T04:32:50Z

What a night it was for Jake Peavy tonight. Final stat line 7 IP, 0ER, 8 K's, 6 hits (3 infield hits) and just 2 walks on 95 pitches. I asked for a dominant outing, and a dominant outing I was given.

If this doesn't get you excited for next year I'm not sure what will. Peavy was outstanding today in every facet of his game. 2 seam fastball was moving all over the place, offspeed stuff was on point, location solid, overall just an awesome outing.

This 100% alleviates the issue of Peavy not being able to pitch in the American League. He increased his record to 10-8 with an ERA just north of 3 in his career in the AL. You have an ERA around 3 in the Cell, you are going to win a lot of ballgames.

White Sox Minor League Update: Lists Season

2009-09-25T18:36:33Z

After a brief vacation, we're back. It's prospects lists season and we start off with the Appy League from Baseball America:

6. David Holmberg, lhp, Bristol (White Sox)

B-T: R-L Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 220 Age: 18 Drafted: White Sox '09 (2)

The sixth prep lefty taken in the 2009 draft, Holmberg went to the White Sox in the second round. Brought along slowly as a pro, he won his final two starts for Bristol because they were the first two in which he completed five innings.

Six-foot-4 and a bit soft-bodied, Holmberg has room to grow stronger and improve upon his present high-80s velocity. He sits at 86-88 mph and touches 90 from a straight overhand delivery, which aids him in getting good plane to the plate.

Quick hand speed enables Holmberg to spin quality 12-to-6 curveballs with above-average break and depth. He mixes in a plus changeup and throws an occasional slider. His secondary stuff and precocious feel for locating his pitches and for changing speeds marks him as a future mid-rotation candidate, particularly if he adds a few ticks to his fastball.

11. Trayce Thompson, of, Bristol (White Sox)

B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-3 Wt.: 195 Age: 18 Drafted: White Sox '09 (2)

Though his average plummeted to .188 after he finished the season in an 0-for-18 skid, Thompson's athletic bloodlines were obvious. His father Mychal, a 6-foot-10 center, was the No. 1 overall pick in the 1978 NBA draft and spent 12 years in the league. The younger Thompson, a second-round pick in June, excited Appy League observers with raw physicality (he's 6-foot-3 and 195 pounds), tremendous bat speed and big-time power potential.

As evidenced by Thompson's zero home runs, four walks and 33 strikeouts, those tools didn't translate into immediate results. Scouts questioned his baseball instincts as an amateur, and he struggled to identify and hit breaking balls with his long swing.

Thompson did earn high marks for his intensity level, plus arm strength and above-average speed. In time, he could become an asset in center field.

15. Santos Rodriguez, lhp, Bristol (White Sox)

B-T: L-L Ht.: 6-5 Wt.: 185 Age: 21 Signed: Dominican Republic '06 (Braves)

The White Sox acquired Rodriguez and three other prospects when they traded Javier Vazquez to the Braves in December 2008. Though Chicago intended to try Rodriguez in the rotation, they instead assigned the 21-year-old to Bristol and kept him in a relief role, marking the third straight season in which he worked in a Rookie ball bullpen. He worked four scoreless innings with eight strikeouts at low Class A Kannapolis after the Appy season ended.

Rodriguez features a plus-plus fastball during most outings, topping out at 97 mph and sitting at 95 with late movement. The pitch features incredible plane by virtue of his 6-foot-5 height, and Appy Leaguers struggled to lift the pitch, going homerless during his 27 innings. He throws a changeup with above-average arm speed that neutralizes righthanders.

Despite his arm strength, Rodriguez still walks too many batters to rank as a surefire relief prospect, though his control improved as the season progressed. He also doesn't have a usable breaking ball at this point, as his slider doesn't consistently show enough tilt to be graded even as fringe-average.

Link.

A theory of how the Sox might focus on their offseason this year

2009-09-22T03:08:14Z

Even though this year isn't mathematically over, after tonight's game it's safe to say that it's time to start talking offseason. I've been focusing my attention to that very exact thing for the past week, trying to figure out which path the Sox will take for next season. I came up with a theory that will still keep me interested in the season and possibly might factor in the decision making for what they plan on doing in certain situations.

I was checking the standing yesterday, just looking at the division and wild card races, and then I checked the overall standing just to see where the Sox were at for the whole major leagues and noticed that they were in 18th place meaning they have the 13th pick in the draft. Now I'm not saying that we should just lose as many games as possibly for the rest of the year so we can get a better draft pick, the draft is just to far away for me to care, but I am focusing on where the Sox will end up in the overall standings.

If we have a top 15 pick in the draft next year, this offseason I feel we will have a better chance of getting the possible free agents people have been discussing (ie. Figgins, Abreu). If you don't know what I'm getting at yet, it's compensation picks and how they work. If we have a top 15 pick, the Sox can not lose our pick if they decide to go out and sign a Type A free agent. So if you want guys like Figgins or Abreu or even a good reliever(the top ones usually our Type A; Dotel probably will be one) makes our chances of landing one maybe two more of a possibility.

I just think Kenny would be a little more hesitant to sign a guy big money and lose a mid-round pick at the same time, considering the way Kenny has been determined to try and rebuild this farm system. Not saying he still wouldn't go out and get a guy if he really wanted them but I think he could take losing a 2nd round pick, especially since were probably going to get one for Dye, who I feel has made the decision a lot easier the way he's played second half of the season.

Just a theory I thought could come into play for maybe a decision or two and these loses might not sting as bad.

Is this idea going to effect if Kenny's guy will be here next year?

Which Hot Wife's Husband Should Be Brought Back for 2010?

2009-09-18T00:02:07Z

So many signing decisions for 2010. Shoud JD be signed for a cheap one-year deal? Should we bring Thome back for a discount? What about dantesox' favorite Bob (Abreu)? For me, the most important question is "Which pin-up babe with the husband on the decline should be brought back to create havoc in the wives' section?" Since Natalie Punto is off-limits, I only have eyes for Mrs. Podsednik and Mrs. Kotsay, and it is a tough, tough choice. So, what say you? Who can take it up the middle? Who is more versatile? Who would take one for the team? Who would lay it all out there for the brass ring?

Poll

Which pin-up's hubby gets to stay around another year?

Scott Podsednik

71 votes

Mark Kotsay

109 votes

180 votes | Poll has closed

OT: While the Sox Score Vibrated In My Pocket...

2009-09-16T17:57:29Z

It should go without saying that few things on this earth would keep me from watching a Sox game – especially on one of the few occasions that the Sox are playing in my present hometown.

I made an exception last night, to attend the first stop of the 2009 Porcupine Tree tour, at the historical and intimate Moore Theatre in Seattle.

Prior to the game, I texted BFF Mike to request that I get a score update after the 4th and a final as well. Like a good best friend, he obliged.

To begin the show, Porcupine Tree showcased what is the first disc and centerpiece of their latest album, released yesterday. "The Incident" is a 55-minute masterpiece - an exquisite journey of ear-kissing brilliance.

I had already heard bits and pieces of The Incident through youtube videos released/leaked prior to yesterday. And I knew full well that the entire album was probably available yesterday morning, for my downloading indulgence. However, I didn’t seek it out.

I wanted my first listen – my first experience – to be their first live performance of it.

And although it would not have ruined anything, I think I made the right decision by allowing myself to be surprised… then again, that’s a weak term… Overwhelmed and stunned, is more like it.

Once the usual technical sound kinks were worked through and the band found their groove, the concert took off in an engrossing direction. Front man Steve Wilson has crafted a complete work of art – a full musical thought that traps you in its dazzling, guitar-driven web. And you are grateful to be helplessly stuck there.

For the majority of the show, the entire crowd gazed upon the stage in complete awe.

There was some applause – undeniable moments of beauty that needed to be rewarded. But for the most part, we all sat in wonder while the show unfolded before us. Scanning the faces of other crowd members, it was apparent that the feeling was more than mutual; we were dumbfounded.

The living, breathing, on-stage-in-front-of-you-Steve Wilson is nothing like you could expect. And I’ve watched plenty live Porcupine Tree videos on youtube before, so I was aware of his style and power before seeing him perform in person.

He is a rather plain English guy by appearance; a cross between Thom Yorke and Kurt Cobain (and the opening lyrics of "Time Flies" reveal he was born the same year as Cobain). He is wiry and dorky and his voice is whatever he wants it to be, depending on the tune. He is not traditionally charismatic. He doesn’t dance or do stage antics. But he is engrossing. He is thrilling to behold. Watching him, you are certain you are witnessing a genius in action – a freak. I actually referred to him last night as the Tim Lincecum of musicians.

Whether he is tearing the daylights out of an electric guitar, or beautifully picking at an acoustic, Wilson is flat-out commanding. (Warning: Testicle shrivel ahead) He is an unearthly presence in a scrawny flesh casing. And he’s just one of the five incredible musicians who make up Porcupine Tree.

The other guitarist, John Wesley, was superb. His voice is richer and traditionally lovelier than Wilson’s, and some of my favorite moments came when he was tenderly soaring vocals over Wilson’s purposeful guitar. Wesley’s frame is equally as thin as Wilson’s, but his height advantage and lanky figure moves in an almost erotic and fluid motion while he possesses his guitar.

For the sake of brevity, which is long lost already, I will not go into depths of each band member’s greatness, because they are all essential and masters of their instruments. But I cannot shy from divulging that Gavin Harrison, the drummer, is intensely badass. Ridiculously. Trust me on this.

Although all 55 minutes of The Incident were moving, my favorite moment came during the song, "Time Flies." The preceding song, "The Yellow Windows of the Evening Train," gently established the tone before Wilson sat down with his acoustic and began strumming "Time Flies." The nearly 12-minute song is so beautiful in itself and might move a person to tears anyway, but the moment that did it for me was the guitar solo in the middle of the song (he swapped his acoustic for an electric). My words will be inadequate, so I will patiently await a youtube video of it in the upcoming weeks, as the tour continues.

I’m not one to just drool over any and every bitching guitar solo. But Wilson plays with purpose. He is not playing notes because they sound nice together and create pretty melodies. His songs are directional and his guitar solos are driven and functional. He does not waste your time. And he certainly does not leave you unfulfilled.

And the best thing that you can do

Is take whatever comes to you

'cause time flies....

After the first set, I finally checked my vibrating phone to get the 4th inning update. 3-2 Mariners. I replied, "put in Aaaaaardsma!!!"

The second half of the show was 8 songs, plucked from their extensive library of recorded music, which dates back to 1991.

Without going into too much detail, I’ll say that the majority of the second set was blow-your-mind-metallic melodies. After an abridged version of "Anesthetize" that nearly wore you out with intensity, Wilson took a seat with an acoustic guitar.

"All the metal heads in the crowd are thinking, Oh no, he’s got the acoustic guitar again," Wilson joked.

I highly doubt even the heaviest metal fans in the crowd were disappointed with what he proceeded to do with that acoustic guitar for the song, "Normal," which was one of my favorites of the night. (Incredible song here - listen in full, please).

Wish I was old and a little sentimental...

Another compelling moment came during the performance of "Russia On Ice," which began with the lights off and only the body of Wilson’s guitar illuminated. The entire song was played in minimal lighting, with only his hand silhouetted against the guitar’s body; dazzling and mesmerizing with every string he touched.

Needless to say, I recommend that The Incident (and all of Porcupine Tree) finds its way into your collection. It takes a great deal to move me in such a way, and I sit here now in shock, still processing what I witnessed last night; wishing I was still there, and wondering how I could somehow get to another stop on their tour…

Chiburb was the one who tipped me off to Porcupine Tree, and Chiburb will be at The Vic on the 22rd of September to see what I just saw. If it gives you any indication of their magnificence, it takes a helluva lot to get Chiburb out of the house, let alone to a loud concert on a Tuesday night...if there are tickets remaining, I urge you to get one. And dad - you should probably bring earplugs, because this show will be like nothing you have ever seen. Their sound is enormous.

As many of you know either from past discussions or my SSS name, I am a Radiohead fanatic. There has been one musical experience that ever induced such a stupor within me: Radiohead in Grant Park in 2001.

When I left that show, I was awesomely misguided. I couldn’t speak. And nothing since that show – including 4 other Radiohead concerts – has led me close to that stupor, until now.

I got in my car this morning and reached out to select music, but couldn't. My ears are not quite ready for anything else.

My phone vibrated in my pocket for the last 40 minutes of the show (no complaints here). The final score was waiting, and I let it go until Porcupine Tree left the stage.

6-3 Sox, it read. My night was officially complete.

And now, like any good Music Thread - have at it! Any PT fans out there? If not, what's everyone's current poison?