Bill James Expected RBI and Apologizing For Shit You Shouldn't Have to Apologize For

In News And Rumors by dmick89Leave a Comment

I bought Solid Fool’s Gold by Bill James this morning and I always like writing about some of the things he discusses. Not everything he writes has a lot of practical value, but I find much of it entertaining and this was one of them.

James found a way to estimate a player’s RBI. It’s surprisingly simple.

Total Bases (TB) / 4 + HR

Of the 427 hitters in 2010 with 10 or more RBI, 166 of them had their actual RBI total within 3 of their expected total. You then have guys like Alex Rodriguez who drove in 29 more than expected and Ichiro who drove in 30 less than expected, but it works for the most part. And since it’s not of much value, working for the most part is good enough for me.

James states that research has found that about 50% of the reason RBI total is higher than expected is because the batter had more RBI opportunities than expected and the other 50% is because the batter hit better with men on base. I don’t know how true that is, but it makes perfect sense.

I thought I would look at the 2011 Cubs expected RBI and actual RBI just for fun (only players with 10 or more RBI).

Player RBI eRBI Diff
Alfonso Soriano 88 82 6
Jeff Baker 23 22 1
Tyler Colvin 20 22 -2
Blake DeWitt 26 29 -3
Aramis Ramirez 93 98 -5
Carlos Pena 80 85 -5
Darwin Barney 43 49 -6
Reed Johnson 28 34 -6
Geovany Soto 54 60 -6
Starlin Castro 66 83 -17
Kosuke Fukudome 13 30 -17
Marlon Byrd 35 53 -18

It’s not too surprising to see the Cubs came in well below their expected total. Only Soriano and Baker drove in more than expected using this simple formula. Castro, Fukudome and Byrd drove in significantly less.

Remember though, this doesn’t mean a player isn’t clutch or anything like that. It means that part of the reason is because of the opportunities and part of it may be that he performed worse with men on. It could just be random luck.

Needlessly apologizing for stupid shit

The above was the first chapter of the book. I told you I just added it to Kindle. I took a break thinking I was done with this post, but then read the next chapter. These are short chapters. If I wasn’t lazy I’d probably be half way through the book. Anyway, the second chapter made me laugh so I figured it’s worth reposting some of it.

On January 11, 2010, Mark McGwire acknowledged in multiple venues that he had, in fact, used steroids and Human Growth Hormone. 

The funny part starts after that.

And in a related story, former New York Yankee outfielder Roger Maris has apologized in a televised interview, broadcast early Wednesday morning on HVEN TV, for using eight extra games and expansion pitching to break the single-season home run record of previous record holder Babe Ruth.

[. . .]

“It was the worst thing I have ever done, and I am so ashamed,” Maris sobbed.

“Everybody else in the league was hitting home runs off of Pete Burnside,” Maris said. “I figured, why shouldn’t I? If any young hitter ever asked me about it, I would plead with them not to hit any home runs off of Pete Burnside or Ed Palmquist. It’s just not worth it, what it does to your soul.”

There’s more…

And in another related story, Babe Ruth has requested an interview, in which it is rumored that he will acknowledge using a corked bat for most of his career, taking advantage of outrageous favoritism from the umpires, and being an unworthy role model for America’s youth due to his widely reported drinking and whoring. That interview is being delayed while Ruth tries to figure out who held the home run record before he did, as he needs to call somebody’s widow or children and apologize in vague, unintelligible terms. Among the candidates for Ruth’s apology are the widows and descendants of Gavy Cravath, Buck Freeman, Roger Connor and Ned Williamson. If you know where any of these people can be located, please call 1-800-RAPTURE or contact Rick Warren personally with details.

That’s about right.


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Comments

  1. ACT

    Marlon Byrd really did fail to come through in important situations this year (look at WPA, RE24, etc.) This has caused a lot of people to turn on him (on BCB, in particular), though his career numbers suggest it’s an aberration.

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  2. Rice Cube

    [quote name=ACT]Marlon Byrd really did fail to come through in important situations this year (look at WPA, RE24, etc.) This has caused a lot of people to turn on him (on BCB, in particular), though his career numbers suggest it’s an aberration.[/quote]Some of it was pre-injury, but getting smacked in the face and losing a month or so of playing time definitely didn’t help. I felt bad for him too, they kept htting him third and it just didn’t make sense since he’s an impatient groundball hitter.

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  3. ACT

    It’s not just that; his numbers were far worse in high leverage situations, runners on base, RISP, etc. Again, though, I think single-season splits are virtually worthless.

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  4. Rice Cube

    [quote name=GW]http://twitter.com/#!/sportsdanny1979/status/125624682845188096[/quote]Do you know who this guy is, GW?

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  5. fang2415

    [quote name=GW]http://twitter.com/#!/sportsdanny1979/status/125624682845188096[/quote]

    Sorry, that page doesn’t exist!

    Is that what a Twitter retraction looks like?

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  6. fang2415

    [quote name=ACT]It’s not just that; his numbers were far worse in high leverage situations, runners on base, RISP, etc. Again, though, I think single-season splits are virtually worthless.[/quote]Fangraphs has his clutch at -1.30 for 2011 and -2.83 when added up for his whole career. That number is basically the difference between how much win probably he added and how much he would have if every game situation had the same leverage. IIRC it takes a looong time to get a reliable sample (like ten years-ish); so with Byrd’s ~8 full years in MLB, we may just barely be able to start to guess that his true talent might get a smidgen worse in high leverage situations.

    I haven’t actually read MB’s article yet, so hopefully he didn’t already say something that either explains or conclusively disproves this. (dying laughing)

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  7. Suburban kid

    So the estimated arrival date for economy shipping to Chicago is Oct 26, 2011 – Oct 28, 2011. If I order it today, do you think Theo will be there when it arrives?

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  8. mb21

    [quote name=Suburban kid]So the estimated arrival date for economy shipping to Chicago is Oct 26, 2011 – Oct 28, 2011. If I order it today, do you think Theo will be there when it arrives?

    [/quote]My source has confirmed that the deal is more than likely to be completed by then.

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  9. Berselius

    [quote name=Suburban kid]So the estimated arrival date for economy shipping to Chicago is Oct 26, 2011 – Oct 28, 2011. If I order it today, do you think Theo will be there when it arrives?

    [/quote]
    That reminds me, I need to buy one of these (dying laughing)

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  10. Berselius

    [quote name=GW]vintage rex grossman today[/quote]
    (dying laughing), no kidding. I can’t believe he’s stuck around the NFL for so long.

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  11. Berselius

    [quote name=mb21]My source has confirmed this is probably true.[/quote]
    It could go either way. Or not, if they tied. But it’s consistent with what we’ve been hearing.

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  12. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    I’d honestly rather give up Jeff Baker than Ryan Flaherty. Maybe I’m wrong, and I know Baker is valuable if use correctly, but I’d rather see what Flaherty can do. He’s cheap, hits lefty, plays multiple positions, and has some power.

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  13. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    Lions coach tries to fight Harbaw after the game. I don’t know much about the Lions, but that guy struck me as a little cooky.

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  14. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Over/under on when Marcum is knocked out of the game tonight?[/quote]Marcum will go 2.2 innings, 4 runs.

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  15. mb21

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]I’d honestly rather give up Jeff Baker than Ryan Flaherty. Maybe I’m wrong, and I know Baker is valuable if use correctly, but I’d rather see what Flaherty can do. He’s cheap, hits lefty, plays multiple positions, and has some power.[/quote]I’d much rather give up Baker than Flaherty.

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  16. mb21

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Over/under on when Marcum is knocked out of the game tonight?[/quote]Nate beat me to it, but I was going to say he wouldn’t get past the 3rd.

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  17. Berselius

    I disagree with all of you. Marcum goes 7.

    Brewers win big, scoring a bushel of runs off of Jackson. This is just my irrational dislike for Jackson shining through though (dying laughing)

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  18. ACT

    [quote name=Berselius]I disagree with all of you. Marcum goes 7.[/quote]No way. His recent struggles over-weigh the fact that he’s been a decent pitcher for the last couple years.

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  19. mb21

    [quote name=ACT]No way. His recent struggles over-weigh the fact that he’s been a decent pitcher for the last couple years.[/quote]He’s been a real good pitcher the last couple of years. My guess had nothing to do with that. I actually didn’t even think much about who was pitching.

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  20. mb21

    [quote name=cwolf]Is that more or less than a desk of runs?[/quote]What about an assload of runs? We really should define these.

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  21. cdw

    When it comes to ambiguously large groupings I prefer using the ston (shit-ton). example, An ston of runs is greater than or equal to an assload or bushel.

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  22. Berselius

    [quote name=cdw]When it comes to ambiguously large groupings I prefer using the ston (shit-ton). example, An ston of runs is greater than or equal to an assload or bushel.[/quote]Nothing can top the clownboatload

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  23. mb21

    [quote name=cdw]When it comes to ambiguously large groupings I prefer using the ston (shit-ton). example, An ston of runs is greater than or equal to an assload or bushel.[/quote]I’ve always thought ston > assload > bushel. Was I wrong?

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  24. fang2415

    (dying laughing), just watched last night’s game and (dying laughing) (dying laughing) at Tim McCarver banging on about how great Moneyball was and how OBP is way more important than stuff like clutch. Hollywood —> powerful.

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  25. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    I honestly can’t think of anyone who didn’t think this was gonna happen to Marcum. WTF? Roneskie?

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  26. Rice Cube

    [quote name=mb21]Rangers or Cardinals?[/quote]I still want the Cardinals to win. Although the last time I said that the post got 10 negative faget points (dying laughing)

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  27. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    John Smoltz: “The postseason can be awfully cruel” with a knowing tone in his voice. (dying laughing)

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  28. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    Brewer fans booing. Damn, that’s a real lack of grace/tolerance. Getting to the NLCS isnt easy. Niether is pitching in mlb for that matter

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  29. mb21

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Brewer fans booing. Damn, that’s a real lack of grace/tolerance. Getting to the NLCS isnt easy. Niether is pitching in mlb for that matter[/quote]Agreed. I understand being disappointed. I sure as fuck would be right now, but there are 9 innings left for the Brewers to catch up. They’re also in the NLCS after winning their division by quite a bit. Impressive season for the Brewers whether they win or lose tonight.

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  30. mb21

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Does that mean I get half of my money back? (dying laughing)[/quote]Yep, half of $0 is $0. Where can we send it?

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  31. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    I’m feeling really generous, you can keep it. Don’t spend it on hookers or political contributions though.

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  32. binky

    The Bears are playing really well so far, surprisingly. Lots of quick passes and a couple long passes are really paying off.

    Also, I’m rooting for the Rangers if it’s the Cards.

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  33. Berselius

    [quote name=josh]The Bears are playing really well so far, surprisingly. Lots of quick passes and a couple long passes are really paying off.[/quote]
    Hard to make any conclusions about play vs the Vikings. They stinks this year.

    Also, I’m rooting for the Rangers if it’s the Cards.

    Same here.

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  34. binky

    [quote name=Berselius]Same here.[/quote]I’m just happy to see the Bears winning. I have to be a bit Buddhist about this season. Expect misery and savor what joy I find.

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  35. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]NLCS mvp has gotta be Freese. 3 HR, batting over .500[/quote]I can go for that.

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  36. binky

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]NLCS mvp has gotta be Freese. 3 HR, batting over .500[/quote]My read of the Brewers offense is Fielder and Braun then a huge dropoff, then everyone else. The Cards seem more balanced. But so do the Rangers.

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  37. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    (dying laughing) tonights starters combine to go 3 innings. This is about Year of the Motherfucking Pitcher

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  38. mb21

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]NLCS mvp has gotta be Freese. 3 HR, batting over .500[/quote]I’d usually agree, but this could be the last season for Pujols with the Cardinals. Methinks he’ll get the award partly because of that.

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  39. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    eh, Weeks and Hart are probably above average, and LuCroy is an ok hitter for pitcher. Technically Assface Morgan has had a good year at the plate.

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  40. Rice Cube

    [quote name=mb21]I’d usually agree, but this could be the last season for Pujols with the Cardinals. Methinks he’ll get the award partly because of that.[/quote]Didn’t actually think of that, I just figured he’d get it because he’s awesome.

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  41. Berselius

    [quote name=mb21]I’d usually agree, but this could be the last season for Pujols with the Cardinals. Methinks he’ll get the award partly because of that.[/quote]
    eh, no one gives a fuck about pre-WS playoff mvps

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  42. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]eh, Weeks and Hart are probably above average, and LuCroy is an ok hitter for pitcher. Technically Assface Morgan has had a good year at the plate.[/quote]Did I say LuCroy was a pitcher? he’s an ok hitter for a catcher, but he may be required to pitch tonite. Holy shit that is alot of runs.

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  43. Berselius

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Did I say LuCroy was a pitcher? he’s an ok hitter for a catcher, but he may be required to pitch tonite. Holy shit that is alot of runs.[/quote]
    (dying laughing), I’m rooting for a position player pitching tonight.

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  44. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    There’s no way the Cards don’t resign Pujols after the additional revenue from this playoff appearance.

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  45. Berselius

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]There’s no way the Cards don’t resign Pujols after the additional revenue from this playoff appearance.[/quote]
    I don’t think he was going to go anywhere else anyway

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  46. Berselius

    [quote name=Devil Fingers]Casey McGehee has the look of a guy you don’t want to make eye contact with after midnight at the 7-11.[/quote]
    (dying laughing)

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  47. Berselius

    [quote name=ACT]Better keep him in the game, just in case he’s all right.[/quote]
    If he was doing well, they’d have to cut his day short

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  48. binky

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]eh, Weeks and Hart are probably above average, and LuCroy is an ok hitter for pitcher. Technically Assface Morgan has had a good year at the plate.[/quote]It’s a family name.

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  49. binky

    [quote name=ACT]Things will suck for the Brew Crew for a while now. They really depleted their farm system assembling this team.[/quote]Except for Fielder, who are they losing?

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  50. ACT

    Looks like Fielder is the only big one. I suppose it’s possible they could patch up that hole and contend next year. But their farm system is bone dry, which bodes ill for the future.

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  51. Recalcitrant Blogger Nate

    [quote name=josh]Except for Fielder, who are they losing?[/quote]maybe Morgan, also losing K-rod

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  52. ACT

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Wonder if the starters for the Cards can go a bit deeper into games as the relievers have to be gassed.[/quote]They’ll have a few days to rest.

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  53. Rice Cube

    [quote name=ACT]Not to mention, I think modern relievers get pampered a lot more than they need to (70 innings/year?).[/quote]Yeah, they’d probably be okay. At this point there’s nothing left to lose so let the arms fall off.

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  54. JMan

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]maybe Morgan, also losing K-rod[/quote]I wonder if they will keep Morgan and non-tender Gomez.

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  55. GW

    Very good article from the Herald, with lots of informed speculation:

    http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/baseball/red_sox/view.bg?articleid=1373868&srvc=rss&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bostonherald+%28Home+-+BostonHerald.com%29

    So what could be taking so long?

    A major reason has to do with Epstein’s desire to surround himself with a front office as talented and familiar as he can make it……When it comes to the Red Sox’ desire to get fair return on a brain drain while not denying their own employees the chance for a promotion by joining Epstein in Chicago, it takes some time to sort through the moves.

    The list of names Epstein has submitted is a closely guarded one…… names that could be part of Epstein’s request are Brian O’Halloran, vice president of baseball operations; Dave Finley, special assistant to the general manager; and Mike Reinold, head athletic director and assistant director of medical service….Another name that could be added to that list is Jason McLeod, who headed the amateur draft with the Red Sox and is currently Jed Hoyer’s assistant general manager in San Diego.
    ……
    Epstein’s exact title and responsibilities….may have to wait to be hashed out until Epstein knows who is going to join him in the front office. If Epstein becomes the Cubs president, he could have Byrnes or McLeod, for example, serve as the general manager.

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  56. binky

    [quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]maybe Morgan, also losing K-rod[/quote]Those don’t seem to be insurmountable losses. The Cards are going to end up spending so much on Pujols that it doesn’t seem likely they’ll also be able to make major upgrades. I could see the Brewers remaining viable next season, but I can see how it will take a few savvy moves.

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  57. binky

    [quote name=WaLi]Is it irrational that I don’t want the Cardinals to beat the Rangers mainly because of Theriot?[/quote]I’m with you.

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  58. binky

    [quote name=WaLi]Who was that guy in the middle trying to break it up? He makes me laugh everytime I see the clip.[/quote]I like that at least one of the players was visibly laughing at the thought of his head coach scuffling.

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  59. ACT

    [quote name=WaLi]Is it irrational that I don’t want the Cardinals to beat the Rangers mainly because of Theriot?[/quote]It is what it is.

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  60. mb21

    I’m rooting for the Cardinals. I’ve been a big Chris Carpenter fan since he was traded to St. Louis. They have the best player in the game. They’ve gotten this far without their best pitcher. I miss Rolen and Edmonds on those teams, but I like Berkman a lot.

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  61. mb21

    Plus, I don’t think it matters. The Cardinals won the World Series when they beat Philly. All that was left after that were a couple technicalities.

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  62. Mish

    [quote name=mb21]I’m rooting for the Cardinals. I’ve been a big Chris Carpenter fan since he was traded to St. Louis. They have the best player in the game. They’ve gotten this far without their best pitcher. I miss Rolen and Edmonds on those teams, but I like Berkman a lot.[/quote]Yeah I’m in this boat. I don’t actually hate Berkman as seems to be a common theme here, and outside of Theriot/Punto/TLR, I don’t dislike any aspect of this team.

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  63. WaLi

    [quote name=ACT]It is what it is.[/quote]Well I don’t really buy into the hating the Cardinals because they are your rival. I like good rivalries and for the most part the Cardinals have “likeable” players. But Theriot is just a dick and that “right side of the rivalry” comment really pisses me off (dying laughing)

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  64. mb21

    [quote name=Mish]Yeah I’m in this boat. I don’t actually hate Berkman as seems to be a common theme here, and outside of Theriot/Punto/TLR, I don’t dislike any aspect of this team.[/quote]I don’t even dislike those three. I’m glad neither are on the Cubs, but Theriot did help the Cubs win two division titles.

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  65. mb21

    [quote name=WaLi]Well I don’t really buy into the hating the Cardinals because they are your rival. I like good rivalries and for the most part the Cardinals have “likeable” players. But Theriot is just a dick and that “right side of the rivalry” comment really pisses me off (dying laughing)[/quote]I think that comment from Theriot was blown out of proportion because the Cubs beat writers knew that Cubs fans would get upset. He was probably best to just keep his mouth shut, but at the same time Cubs fans have been taking their frustrations out on him for some time now so it’s understandable he’d want to fire back.

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  66. ACT

    [quote name=mb21]They have the best player in the game. [/quote]I don’t know if that’s even true any more. You could make a strong case for, say, Bautista or Votto.

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  67. ACT

    Also, Rangers actually won their division, while Cardinals only won the wild card (and even then, it took an epic Braves collapse).

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  68. mb21

    [quote name=ACT]I don’t know if that’s even true any more. You could make a strong case for, say, Bautista or Votto.[/quote]Ok, they have the active player who has so far had the best career to this point. He’s right there with A-Rod. When Bautista and Votto belong in the same sentence with A-Rod then I’ll say something else, but neither of those two are deserving of that. Bautista never will and Votto more than likely won’t.

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  69. WaLi

    On one hand, I have friends who are Cardinal fans, so I want them to be happy.

    On the other hand, I have friends who are Cardinal fans, so I want the Cardinals to fail so I don’t have to hear about how the Cardinals won again (dying laughing)

    [quote name=ACT]I love having turnover in WS winners. Cards won recently, Rangers never won.[/quote]
    I guess this will be the deciding factor for me. Plus I had like 5 Texas players on my winning fantasy team. Go Rangers!

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  70. Berselius

    [quote name=mb21]I’m rooting for the Cardinals. I’ve been a big Chris Carpenter fan since he was traded to St. Louis. They have the best player in the game. They’ve gotten this far without their best pitcher. I miss Rolen and Edmonds on those teams, but I like Berkman a lot.[/quote]I agree with all of these points, but my dislike for TLR trumps all of it

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  71. Berselius

    I like Berkman a lot and would love it if he became a Cub. He’s just so easy to mock with those crazy pictures.

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  72. Berselius

    I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall for a TLR MGL meeting. Any room would be too small for both their egos (dying laughing)

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  73. Berselius

    [quote name=ACT]I don’t know if that’s even true any more. You could make a strong case for, say, Bautista or Votto.[/quote]Are their teams in the playoffs? Then they cannot be the best player.

    /MSM

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  74. snyds01 22

    I don’t know about any of you but I think it would be awesome for tommy boy to wait to announce his new signing until an hour or two before game one of the ws as a big FU to his division rival and send the blank check to uncle bud in nyc for his fine. Kinda put a cherry on top of this whole organizational turnaround.

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  75. AndCounting

    For some reason I don’t care in the slightest who wins the World Series. It won’t bother me at all to see either team win it. I’d be a little happier for the Rangers fans who’ve never seen it happen before. But the annoying nature of some Cardinals fans and the egotism of Ryan Theriot have all reached critical mass. Them winning another World Series will change pretty much nothing.

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  76. GBTS

    [quote name=Berselius]I like Berkman a lot and would love it if he became a Cub. He’s just so easy to mock with those crazy pictures.[/quote]Yeah, I’ve always felt sympathy for him too after the whole being trapped in a well in Buffalo Bill’s basement thing.

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  77. Berselius

    [quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint][/quote]
    I keep thinking that I’m seeing the Phillies in those Rangers clips. Not used to the red hats.

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  78. Berselius

    [quote name=AndCounting]For some reason I don’t care in the slightest who wins the World Series. It won’t bother me at all to see either team win it. I’d be a little happier for the Rangers fans who’ve never seen it happen before. But the annoying nature of some Cardinals fans and the egotism of Ryan Theriot have all reached critical mass. Them winning another World Series will change pretty much nothing.[/quote]
    Same here. Even if I had a TV right now I probably wouldn’t tune in to this WS

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  79. GBTS

    Cards scored 43 runs in 6 games vs. MIL. The Rams have only scored 49 points all season.

    Totally unfair, the Rams have played less than six games. So while the Cardinals averaged a mere 7.2 runs per game, the Rams have put up a beastly 9.8 points per game.

    Way to fudge the numbers. (dying laughing)

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  80. mb21

    [quote name=Berselius]I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall for a TLR MGL meeting. Any room would be too small for both their egos (dying laughing)[/quote]I think Asia is too small for both their egos.

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  81. mb21

    [quote name=snyds01 22]I don’t know about any of you but I think it would be awesome for tommy boy to wait to announce his new signing until an hour or two before game one of the ws as a big FU to his division rival and send the blank check to uncle bud in nyc for his fine. Kinda put a cherry on top of this whole organizational turnaround.[/quote]The Yankees announced A-Rod’s contract during the World Series. The Yankees don’t give a fuck about Bud’s wishes. No reason for the Cubs to.

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  82. work sucks

    Players I hate on STL: TLR, Theriot, Molina, TLR, plus I hate them for trading Rasmus and trying to make Schumaker a 2B. I also despise TLR.

    I like: Pujols

    Was always kinda ambivalent on Berkman, although I am irritated that he was so good this year besides blowing on defense and being bad last year.

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  83. work is what you make it

    [quote name=work sucks]Players I hate on STL: TLR, Theriot, Molina, TLR, plus I hate them for trading Rasmus and trying to make Schumaker a 2B. I also despise TLR.

    I like: Pujols

    Was always kinda ambivalent on Berkman, although I am irritated that he was so good this year besides blowing on defense and being bad last year.[/quote]
    Shut the fuck up.

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  84. ACT

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Word on the street is that the Red Sox want McNutt.[/quote]I wouldn’t mind seeing him go. He fell pretty hard this year. The only prospect I wouldn’t part with is Brett, and we know that won’t happen.

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  85. Mish

    [quote name=dylanj]Mish- have you told your co-worker he’s a douche for that Castro story yet?[/quote]No but thanks for reminding me. I forgot all about that.

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  86. Dr. Aneus Taint

    [quote name=dylanj]whats your fucking deal JG?

    also, Aldon is the pass rusher you have always wanted[/quote]
    What’s your deal?

    He sure looks like it so far. Just wait until he’s comfortable with the scheme and they start rushing him through different gaps.

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  87. Snyds01 22

    [quote name=ACT]Does anyone know the origin of the Castro “story?”[/quote]

    Born the illegitimate son of a wealthy farmer, Castro became involved in anti-imperialist politics whilst studying law at the University of Havana. Subsequently involving himself in armed rebellions against rightist governments in the Dominican Republic and Colombia, he went on to conclude that the U.S.-backed Cuban President Fulgencio Batista, who was widely seen as a dictator, had to be overthrown; to this end he led a failed armed attack on the Moncada Barracks in 1953.

    I think that is the origin…

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  88. WaLi

    [quote name=Snyds01 22]I think that is the origin…[/quote](dying laughing)

    Mish said his co-worker who is a cop or something mentioned that Castro was being brought in for charges against him.

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  89. GBTS

    [quote name=WaLi](dying laughing)

    Mish said his co-worker who is a cop or something mentioned that Castro was being brought in for charges against him.[/quote]Just because he wasn’t charged with rape doesn’t mean that Mish’s friend wasn’t considering charging him with rape at the time.

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  90. mb21

    [quote name=ACT]Yes, but where did the cop get the idea?[/quote]I tend to think people just make that shit up. It’s possible his friend heard something about Castro hitting on some chick who had a boyfriend. After 729 people heard about this it became he raped some chick.

    I’d rather the player and rape not even be mentioned on this blog to be honest.

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  91. mb21

    I don’t really care if they trade McNutt. As ACT said, he fell pretty hard this year and has basically sucked since he reached AA.

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  92. Rodrigo Ramirez

    [quote name=GBTS][/quote]
    (dying laughing)
    (dying laughing)
    That would explain the look of defeat on Fielder’s face.

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  93. Rodrigo Ramirez

    [quote name=Mish]Eddy Curry ready to join NBA team??[/quote]
    (dying laughing)

    Look up twp stories.

    It was supposed to link to Selig saying he wanted the Epstein deal done by Wednesday. I also want it completed soon.

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  94. Mish

    [quote name=Rodrigo Ramirez](dying laughing)

    Look up twp stories.

    It was supposed to link to Selig saying he wanted the Epstein deal done by Wednesday. I also want it completed soon.[/quote]
    Haha no it did, but since I dont have insider it went to a general splash page that listed several stories.

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  95. binky

    From the Cubs Mailbag:

    You mentioned DJ LeMahieu needs to get his power numbers up and I agree to a point. Hasn’t DJ had success with driving in runs without the need of hitting a lot of home runs? I remember a skinny kid at third base for the Cubs back in 1982 and eventually the power came to him, too. I’m more concerned the Cubs need a clutch hitter more than a power hitter.
    — Rick L., Peoria, Ill.

    You heard it from Rick L in Peoria first: DJ LaMaheiu = Ryne Sandburg.

    Edit: Way to read the wrong year on that one.

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  96. Rice Cube

    [quote name=josh]From the Cubs Mailbag:

    You heard it from Rick L in Peoria first: DJ LaMaheiu = Ron Santo.[/quote]I think he had Ryno in mind but the Ron Santo comparison is pretty good too. Lulz.

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  97. binky

    [quote name=Rice Cube]I think he had Ryno in mind but the Ron Santo comparison is pretty good too. Lulz.[/quote]Yes yes, I fixed it. I read ’62 for some reason. I don’t even know if ’62 would be right.

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  98. Rice Cube

    [quote name=josh]Yes yes, I fixed it. I read ’62 for some reason. I don’t even know if ’62 would be right.[/quote]I thought Santo started in ’63 or ’64 but I’d have to look it up. It could go either way. It’s kind of funny how people think that just because Ryno turned into Ryno means every MLBer who has struggled in their first few PAs will become Ryno too.

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  99. binky

    [quote name=work sucks]Players I hate on STL: TLR, Theriot, Molina, TLR, plus I hate them for trading Rasmus and trying to make Schumaker a 2B. I also despise TLR.

    I like: Pujols

    Was always kinda ambivalent on Berkman, although I am irritated that he was so good this year besides blowing on defense and being bad last year.[/quote]Player love/hate aside, I just want to see the Rangers win one. I find them to be an enjoyable team to watch. I was hoping they’d win last year. Though the Giants were a fun team to watch as well.

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  100. binky

    [quote name=Rice Cube]I thought Santo started in ’63 or ’64 but I’d have to look it up. It could go either way. It’s kind of funny how people think that just because Ryno turned into Ryno means every MLBer who has struggled in their first few PAs will become Ryno too.

    [/quote]1960, if wikipedia is to be believed.

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  101. Rice Cube

    http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/ten-weirdest-career-ending-performances-of-all-time/

    1. Sometimes it’s good to be your own manager: Lou Boudreau

    There’s a play that’s much rarer than a walk-off home run, though: The walk-off sacrifice bunt. On average, it’s happened maybe once or twice a year over the last 60 seasons. Officially, anyway, that’s the case.

    In reality, it’s rarer, as most of the official walk-off sacrifice bunts are actually walk-off errors in which a defensive misplay lets the winning run score. An actual honest-to-goodness sacrifice hit where the winning run scores from third on a well laid down bunt has happened less than once per year since WWII.

    So it’s kind of cool that a Hall of Famer’s career ended on that play. And not just any walk-off sacrifice bunt, but a pinch-hit walk-off sacrifice bunt. One that happened in extra innings, too.

    In the bottom of the tenth in a 1-1 game on Aug. 24, 1952, the Red Sox loaded the bases with one out against the visiting St. Louis Browns. With shortstop Johnny Lipon due up, Boston inserted Boudreau as pinch-hitter, and he laid down the bunt that brought home the runner from third for the win.

    Did I say, “Boston inserted Boudreau?” Well, it would be better to say, “Boudreau inserted Boudreau.” After all, he was not only a veteran infielder, but the team’s player-manager. That helped him make the list, as he could pick his final spot for the team, and he sure found a nice spot to pick for his last ever game.

    What would MGL say about this?

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  102. MGL

    [quote name=Rice Cube]http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/ten-weirdest-career-ending-performances-of-all-time/

    What would MGL say about this?[/quote]
    Have you ever been paid for your baseball opinions? No? Then shut the fuck up, peasant.

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  103. Dr. Aneus Taint

    [quote name=MGL]Have you ever been paid for your baseball opinions? No? Then shut the fuck up, peasant.[/quote]
    What’s your deal?

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  104. Dr. Aneus Taint

    [quote name=GBTS]Is there something new in that gif that I’m missing?[/quote]
    There are changes three.

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  105. Dr. Aneus Taint

    [quote name=GBTS]Can’t tell what that is falling off Schwarz.[/quote]
    You and your fancy fast processor! It’s douche and midol.

    [quote name=work sucks]Tampon in Schwartz hand?[/quote]
    Correct.

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  106. GBTS

    [quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]You and your fancy fast processor! It’s douche and midol.[/quote]Apologies, subtlety is rare in your work.

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  107. WaLi

    [quote name=mb21]http://btn.com/2011/10/15/kinnick-stadium-card-stunt-delights/[/quote]Pretty cool. I wonder how long it takes to plan that. And I guess you have to hope there aren’t too many drunk asses in the crowd that would fuck it up (dying laughing) I saw a few holding up yellow during the stars

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  108. mb21

    They surely handed something out before the game. I know they sent out the information regarding the black and yellow sections as the stadium was striped. They did that a year or two ago and it was pretty damn cool.

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  109. Rice Cube

    [quote name=WaLi] I saw a few holding up yellow during the stars[/quote]Those people were executed during halftime.

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  110. GBTS

    [quote name=Rice Cube]I’m all for giving drunks at a college football game the benefit of the doubt, but I believe those people should have been executed during halftime.[/quote].

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  111. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Smokestack Lightning](dying laughing)…per Bruce Levine, Red Sox wanted Garza for Theo.

    http://espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/story/_/id/7116210/boston-red-sox-initially-wanted-matt-garza-chicago-cubs-theo-epstein%5B/quote%5DI wouldn’t trust anything on Theo from the Cubs beat writers. Most don’t even have real sources inside the team they get paid to cover, let alone in other places in baseball. Seems to me most of what they are “reporting” is second hand from the Red Sox beat guys.

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  112. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Rice Cube]I didn’t think he could go back…

    Hi MO.[/quote]OHHAIKTHXBAI.

    Wasn’t KLaw saying if a deal doesn’t get done, Theo hits the street and the Red Sox owe him 7 mil?

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  113. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]OHHAIKTHXBAI.

    Wasn’t KLaw saying if a deal doesn’t get done, Theo hits the street and the Red Sox owe him 7 mil?[/quote]Not a legal expert, but I would think that was something MLB would not want to happen…

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  114. GBTS

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Peasants! Arst thou conversing?[/quote]MO, I’m glad you safely evaded the authorities for kidnapping Martz and replacing him with a body double who called 7 and 8 man protections for Cutler all night.

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  115. Rice Cube

    [quote name=GBTS]MO, I’m glad you safely evaded the authorities for kidnapping Martz and replacing him with a body double who called 7 and 8 man protections for Cutler all night.[/quote]I did not watch the game but this suggests that Cutler had four Bears receivers to throw to who didn’t suck.

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  116. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=GBTS]MO, I’m glad you safely evaded the authorities for kidnapping Martz and replacing him with a body double who called 7 and 8 man protections for Cutler all night.[/quote]

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  117. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=GBTS]When Jay Cutler has time, Roy Williams looks like Cris Collinsworth.[/quote]
    Fixed for slowness.

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  118. ACT

    You Cubs fans are funny…. i do recall everytime i turned on the TV when Garza was pitching, he got rocked. I would trade him before McNutt and Jackson(Brett) That is… BTW, Theo will turn that organization around. Wouldn’t be surprised to see him unload some dead weight on the team this offseason.

    .

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