Mercurial Outfielder hates the bunt. He absolutley hates it. He’s not alone. There are a lot of people who think it’s a dumb strategy and there are a lot of people that think that one run is so important that it’s always a good strategy. The answer is somewhere in between and that’s what The Book focused on for 50 pages. I can’t possibly go over everything included in The Book so those who have it should turn to page 237 to get started.
The chapter on bunts starts with pointing out that statements like I first menetioned are nothing but rhetoric. The important question is whether or not it is ever advantageous to bunt. Does bunting ever increase the win expectancy and if so, when. At what point in the lineup and in what situations is a good idea? They then spend the next 50 pages analyzing almost every single situation that players often bunt in and provide analysis to show whether or not bunting is correct in those circumstances.
One thing that is important to note is that not all sac bunts are successful. Sometimes fans think they are when they are not. Sometimes they result in double plays. Sometimes the runner doesn’t advance at all. Sometimes there’s an error and both men are safe. In a sac bunt situation we have to remember the fielders are positioned so they can best make the play, which only makes the successful sac bunt that much harder. Furthermore, in those situations, pitchers may elevate the ball trying to get the popup. It’s not simply a matter of the batter executing as the pitcher and defense are also trying to execute in a way that results in the opposite of what the batting team is trying to accomplish.
Poor hitters sacrifice much more often than good hitters do. The Book found that the poor hitter attempts a sacrifice at least 5 times as often as the good hitter does.
As I mentioned, I can’t go into too much detail, but I can gloss over the important parts.
The first rule we come to in the chapter is that with a non-pitcher at the plate and a runner on 1st with no outs that you’ll gladly give the batting team the runner on 2nd for the out.
As for bunting early in a close game, low scoring environment, it is “often correct” to sacrifice a runner from first with no outs. You should also do the same thing in an average run environment to “keep the defense honest.” The same is true for late in a close game.
One of the things we usually can’t tell as fans is what either team is anticipating. If the batting team is intending to bunt and they catch the defense off guard it’s usually a good strategy. On the other hand, if the defense is shaded in to protect agains the bunt, it often is not. In order to keep that defense in while you’re batting, you do have to bunt on occasion. Otherwise they just play back and that makes it harder to get base hits.
As for a bad hitter, someone whose wOBA is expected to be well below league average (35 to 45 points below), he can attempt to sac bunt even if the defense is expecting it. This ignores the speed of the runner on 1st and how good a bunter the person at the plate is, which is also of importance when considering the bunt.
Even a hitter whose projected wOBA is higher than .300, he should sometimes bunt too. Especially if you are catching the defense out of position for the bunt. Good hitters should even bunt on occasion to keep the defense honest. The higher the projected wOBA, the more the defense needs to be playing back. If you catch them napping, it’s a good idea (see Carlos Pena). Whether the defense is anticipating the bunt or playing back is crucial in determining whether or not it was a good idea to bunt. We often don’t know where the defense is playing. About the only time we do hear about it is in obvious bunt situations or when a shift is on.
Another factor is who is on deck. Since you’re bunting the guy over for the next batter, this is quite important. You now have a runner on 2nd base and there’s an out if the sac bunt was successful. Which type of batter do you want to move the runner over for? Common sense tells us that the following batter taking a walk would be less valuable than it is in other circumstances. A walk with a runner already on 2nd base is less valuable than your average walk. If you have two equal players, but one derives more value from SLG than OBP, you’d prefer to bunt in front of the low OBP, low walk player because the walk in that situation has less value. In other words, you’d prefer to bunt in front of someone like Starlin Castro than you would Carlos Pena. That’s not actually true, because the two players aren’t equal (Pena is projected to be the better hitter by quite a lot), but imagine those two being equal, you’d rather sac bunt in front of Castro because he doesn’t take many walks. Pena does.
There are several exceptions to these and they only focused on no out situations. For example, a good bunter, especially one who is also fast, cant bunt much more frequently than a poor bunter.
As for pitchers, the rule is that with no outs a bad hitting pitcher should bunt most of the time, an average one some of the time and a good one should only occasionally do it. Carlos Zambrano has not bunted that often in his career so the Cubs managers seem to have this part figured out.
With regards to what happened the other night (Z bunting, runner on 1st, 1 out), only a bad hitting pitcher should bunt in such situations and only about half the time. Zambrano shoul dnot have been bunting in that situation. However, this is based on an average run scoring environment and assuming the defense was playing in for the bunt. Maybe they were and maybe they weren’t. I’m guessing they were playing half way because Zambrano does not bunt very often. Wrigley Field also was not an average run scoring environment that night. The weather and the wind made it a pitcher’s paradise meaning that one run was even more important. If Zambrano bunted in that situation every time, I’d be upset. Since it’s only happened once, I’m going to give the benefit of the doubt to the manager who knew where the defense was playing, and had a much better idea of what the actual run scoring environment was than I do. I’ll be as angry as MO is if this situation happens frequently.
There are many additional rules and many different circumstances, but I hope this gives us a better idea of some of the more typical situations and some of what must go into deciding whether or not the bunt is the right play.
If you remember only one thing about bunting, remember that it’s often not as simple as we fans make it sound. That works in both ways. Some fans say it helps score runs. Some fans say it’s dumb. Sometimes it does help score runs. Sometimes it is dumb. Many times it’s somewhere in between.
wimd blowing out? Bizarre.
Don’t look now, but the Cubs are tied for 1st.
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
I like them both as well. I associate the blue jerseys with Z, so I’ve never had an issue with them. Plus, a little variety is nice.
If I had it my way, though, I’d make the alternates navy blue with the 1914 bear and bat logo, with matching hats. I think that’d look pretty sharp.
Is it impressive to get a hit in every game but that’s all you ever get? So you have 162 hits for the season and you bat .250. Would that be impressive?
the one part of the book that i couldn’t bring myself to get through. i’m interested, but not that interested.
(dying laughing)
The Cubs will win 2 games in a series but will get outscored 7-2. (dying laughing)
did pena hurt himself?
Start a LOOGY: lets see what happens
Reed Johnson is just not fast enough
Wait, Harang is a Righty. Why is Baker playing?
[quote name=Xoomwaffle]Wait, Harang is a Righty. Why is Baker playing?[/quote]
i think he was double switched in with stevens, but am not watching
If reed wasnt a moron game would be 4-2
Charles Darwin Barney!!!
Castro fails. Shocking
Geo got offended
[quote name=bubblesdachimp]If reed wasnt a moron game would be 4-2[/quote]
He’s 4-4 today but has still managed to burn two outs. I’d say that’s some sort of record but, y’know, I’m sure Theriot has managed to fuck up more spectacularly.
[quote name=Muck Muckintuck]Is it impressive to get a hit in every game but that’s all you ever get? So you have 162 hits for the season and you bat .250. Would that be impressive?[/quote]
Ask Mark Grace.
Apparently Brett Jackson hit a home run tonite.
[quote name=uncle dave]Ask Mark Grace.[/quote](dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Soriano! interesting now?
ADOLPHO!!
[quote name=Berselius]ADOLPHO!![/quote]
nice call Dick
that was a strike?? don’t have my gameday up.
fuck you wittenmeyer and sullivan
Sean Casey just said that the Cubs are playing good baseball this year… Has he even seen the Cubs?
Sullivan trashed him on twitter tonight
I guess it was. that ball had some major movement.
[quote name=bubblesdachimp]Sullivan trashed him on twitter tonight[/quote]
who?
Brett jackson 3-4 with a homerun and a triple amd a walk. Bring him up as soon as he is not super 2 eligible.
[quote name=bubblesdachimp]Brett jackson 3-4 with a homerun and a triple amd a walk. Bring him up as soon as he is not super 2 eligible.[/quote]
I heard the Nats want Byrd; trade him for Strasburg and Harper
who were they trashing on twitter?
Grabow has been half a win below replacement since his 2 year deal with Cubs. I hate Grabow almost as much as Hill.
[quote name=Horny Goat]who?[/quote]
Soriano. How many fucking times have they sent runners today? Jesus. Good for geo to bounce back and tgrow the last three out
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]I heard the Nats want Byrd; trade him for Strasburg and Harper[/quote]
then flip ‘em for Matt Cain.
[quote name=Horny Goat]then flip ‘em for Matt Cain.[/quote]
correct.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]I heard the Nats want Byrd; trade him for Strasburg and Harper[/quote]
Unless we get jordan zimmerman too we got robbed. Byrd is an allstar. Duh
[quote name=bubblesdachimp]Soriano. How many fucking times have they sent runners today? Jesus. Good for geo to bounce back and tgrow the last three out[/quote]
I thought so, but WTF?
I mean I guess the padres have to run to score but wow 4 outs
Sully and Twittermeyer need to take a long walk into lake michigan.
Baker (dying laughing)
this is the time for Colvin goddammit
[quote name=Horny Goat]Sully and Twittermeyer need to take a long walk into lake michigan.[/quote]
Fuck Paul Sullivan. What a piece of shit.
this weird day would be perfect if Darwin Barney could actually hit one over the fence (dying laughing)
25 hits and 9 runs in this game…
Kosuke should steal!
why are len and bob so surprised that Barney has never hit a homer? Does the dude even have 100 PAs? He’s clearly a slap hitter
So is this a good time for a bunt?
oh for a walk
bum!
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]why are len and bob so surprised that Barney has never hit a homer? Does the dude even have 100 PAs? He’s clearly a slap hitter[/quote]
I dunno. I’ll be shocked if he EVER hits one, though it is wrigley so eventually…
Too bad Castro didn’t get one last crack at it.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]why are len and bob so surprised that Barney has never hit a homer? Does the dude even have 100 PAs? He’s clearly a slap hitter[/quote]
But, he’s due!
Maybe im crazy but maybe the cubs should stop the spot the other team 4 runs with russell experiment
As if on cue……
[quote name=Xoomwaffle]But, he’s due![/quote]
so are the Cubs
Cubs will still be tied for 1st after tonight if the Reds don’t score in the 9th. 4-way tie, in fact.
Enjoy it while it lasts (dying laughing)
Reds began 5-0, since then, 4-9.
[quote name=bubblesdachimp]Maybe im crazy but maybe the cubs should stop the spot the other team 4 runs with russell experiment[/quote]
i agree. Diamond or Ortiz or whoever has to be at least this good.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]i agree. Diamond or Ortiz or whoever has to be at least this good.[/quote]
Isn’t Angel Guzman supposedly close to coming back? I haven’t read anything about what’s going down on the farm. I’m a city boy.
Woah: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-0421-mlb-dodgers-20110421,0,2011898.story
(dying laughing) my wife is listening to Godspeed. I wonder if she’s stoned up there in our room
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Woah: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-0421-mlb-dodgers-20110421,0,2011898.story/quote
How many years until this happens to the Ricketts? Seriously though, highly leveraged purchases of sports franchises seems like a bad idea. Revenue seems like it would be too hard to control on a year to year basis to meet significant debt obligations.
I am curious if the Ricketts have loan covenants based on certain revenue targets. I think the Cubs could be in a lot worse financial condition than the Ricketts are letting on.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]How many years until this happens to the Ricketts? Seriously though, highly leveraged purchases of sports franchises seems like a bad idea. Revenue seems like it would be too hard to control on a year to year basis to meet significant debt obligations.
I am curious if the Ricketts have loan covenants based on certain revenue targets. I think the Cubs could be in a lot worse financial condition than the Ricketts are letting on.[/quote]Have you been following Ivy Chat Chuck’s series on the Cubs’ finances?
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate](dying laughing) my wife is listening to Godspeed. I wonder if she’s stoned up there in our room[/quote]It is that day…
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Have you been following Ivy Chat Chuck’s series on the Cubs’ finances?[/quote]
Nope. Never heard of it. Do you have a link?
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Have you been following Ivy Chat Chuck’s series on the Cubs’ finances?[/quote]
Just read his post on the debt. Basically exactly what I suspected. My prediction is that the Cubs make a half-hearted run at Pujols, sign somebody much cheaper and try to sell a rebuilding project.
Tom Tickets picked a bad year to start sniffing glue.
@rebexarama:
the Cubs have been 1-1, 2-2, 3-3, 4-4, 5-5, 6-6, 7-7, 8-8, and now 9-9.
The Roller Coaster to .500 could not have been more accurate. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]Just read his post on the debt. Basically exactly what I suspected. My prediction is that the Cubs make a half-hearted run at Pujols, sign somebody much cheaper and try to sell a rebuilding project.[/quote]If this year goes like the projections say, I’m not sure he can sell a rebuilding project.
Boston just completed a 10 year restoration project. Isn’t that what the Rickettszzz should be doing if they wanna stay at 1060 W Addison? That, and adding a jumbotron or whatever the fuck you call it.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]If this year goes like the projections say, I’m not sure he can sell a rebuilding project.[/quote]
If he cuts payroll around $75 million, I’m betting he will still come out ahead, as compared to keeping payroll in the $135 million range.
People still like to go to Wrigley Field. If Ricketts cut ticket prices next season, and went with a young cheap ballclub, I think he could make money. Part of what’s killing attendance this season is tickets are still really expensive, but most reasonable people know the team sucks.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]If he cuts payroll around $75 million, I’m betting he will still come out ahead, as compared to keeping payroll in the $135 million range.
People still like to go to Wrigley Field. If Ricketts cut ticket prices next season, and went with a young cheap ballclub, I think he could make money. Part of what’s killing attendance this season is tickets are still really expensive, but most reasonable people know the team sucks.[/quote]
I can’t envision any scenario where Ricketts engages across-the-board ticket price cuts.
RC thinks James Russell should never be allowed to pitch more than one full inning ever again.
Also, Reed Johnson had a good game but the TOOTBLANs were pretty much the difference in the game.
I wish they’d have rebuilt this year anyway. If they’d actually do it, I’d accept it next year too. Forget Pujols, trade Soto for Montero and make Castillo the catcher
Boston —–> First road win
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I can’t envision any scenario where Ricketts engages across-the-board ticket price cuts.[/quote]
correct. who else does that? I mean besides scalpers.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I can’t envision any scenario where Ricketts engages across-the-board ticket price cuts.[/quote]
I don’t think that’s what will happen, but if I was Ricketts that’s what I’d do.
Fire Hendry, hire one of the top young sabermetrically inclined management types. Start over with a low payroll and young players. Spend money in the draft and build from within. Basically operate like a savvy small-market team, with the knowledge that Wrigley will keep at least 25,000 a game in the seats, and more during the summer.
As an added bonus if the team ever got good ala the Rays, you would make money-hand over fist.
[quote name=Horny Goat]correct. who else does that? I mean besides scalpers.[/quote]I’m sure a team or two has done it, but if Ricketts was going to cut ticket prices, he’d have done it right off the bat to bank some good will. No way he can even afford to do it now.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]I don’t think that’s what will happen, but if I was Ricketts that’s what I’d do.
Fire Hendry, hire one of the top young sabermetrically inclined management types. Start over with a low payroll and young players. Spend money in the draft and build from within. Basically operate like a savvy small-market team, with the knowledge that Wrigley will keep at least 25,000 a game in the seats, and more during the Summer.
As an added bonus if the team ever got good ala the Rays, you would make money-hand over fist.[/quote]That would be grand. But I think we’re going to see something more akin to the Candy Maldonado era. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Rice Cube]RC thinks James Russell should never be allowed to pitch more than one full inning ever again.
Also, Reed Johnson had a good game but the TOOTBLANs were pretty much the difference in the game.[/quote]
Brenly was praising Reed for trying to reach 3B even though he was out by 30 feet.
[quote name=Horny Goat]correct. who else does that? I mean besides scalpers.[/quote]
Teams shouldn’t be afraid to treat tickets more like like items that vary widely in value depending on demand.
[quote name=Horny Goat]Brenly was praising Reed for trying to reach 3B even though he was out by 30 feet.[/quote]
As soon as he rounded second I was like “WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING”…I could see whoever was in LF gather the ball right as Reed got to second and immediately thought “TOOTBLAN.” The stolen base attempt was almost as stupid…who thought Reed was fast anymore? Fuck.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I’m sure a team or two has done it, but if Ricketts was going to cut ticket prices, he’d have done it right off the bat to bank some good will. No way he can even afford to do it now.[/quote]
sure, but the Cubs will never cut ticket prices. NEVER.
I think if they don’t lower ticket prices they should tell the seat nazis to relax a bit and let people file into the bleachers after the fifth inning if it’s obvious that the park isn’t full. Or even down into the 100s and lower. So many empty seats not being taken advantage of.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]That would be grand. But I think we’re going to see something more akin to the Candy Maldonado era. (dying laughing)[/quote]
I have little doubt that’s what’s going to happen. But, Ricketts is really, really dumb if he thinks acting like the Baltimore Orioles rather than the Tampa Rays is the best way for him to make money.
With the salary structure currently present in MLB, I really don’t understand why more big-market teams don’t try to act more like successful small-market teams and just pocket the difference.
[quote name=Rice Cube]As soon as he rounded second I was like “WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING”…I could see whoever was in LF gather the ball right as Reed got to second and immediately thought “TOOTBLAN.” The stolen base attempt was almost as stupid…who thought Reed was fast anymore? Fuck.[/quote]
Brenly said it took a perfect relay to get him out (dying laughing)
Get a fucking clue and don’t give up outs on the bases.
The start I didn’t see…
http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=13985465
Figure if you pay a dollar, you get a dollar’s worth of starter. Fucking James Russell…
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]
Fire Hendry, hire one of the top young sabermetrically inclined management types. Start over with a low payroll and young players. Spend money in the draft and build from within. Basically operate like a savvy small-market team, with the knowledge that Wrigley will keep at least 25,000 a game in the seats, and more during the summer.
As an added bonus if the team ever got good ala the Rays, you would make money-hand over fist.[/quote]
[quote name=Horny Goat]Brenly said it took a perfect relay to get him out (dying laughing)
Get a fucking clue and don’t give up outs on the bases.[/quote]Bob Brenly makes Tim McCarver look like a MENSA member.
Ever notice that the right field section by the foul pole is almost always half empty since the bleacher renovation? Because they are actual chairs now and they charge almost double than the bleacher seats. Look at them. Even a full house and that section is half empty.
[quote name=Horny Goat]Ever notice that the right field section by the foul pole is almost always half empty since the bleacher renovation? Because they are actual chairs now and they charge almost double than the bleacher seats. Look at them. Even a full house and that section is half empty.[/quote]Isn’t that the “family section?”
nice reference, GBTS.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Isn’t that the “family section?”[/quote]
You may be right. But even in the summer it’s sparse compared to the rest.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Isn’t that the “family section?”[/quote]
Bleacher Boxes. There never has really been much demand for them. On the secondary market they have always basically sold for the same price as the regular bleacher tickets.
[quote name=Horny Goat]You may be right. But even in the summer it’s sparse compared to the rest.[/quote]
If you get them, you can still sit in the regular bleachers. I’ve had friends accidentally buy them, and then come sit with my group in the regular bleachers.
If you want to sit in the bleachers for the “atmosphere”, the bleacher boxes are pretty lame. No point to them. Might as well get a decent seat in the bowl for the same price.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]Bleacher Boxes. There never has really been much demand for them. On the secondary market they have always basically sold for the same price as the regular bleacher tickets.[/quote]
so, $10 each now? (dying laughing)
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]Bleacher Boxes. There never has really been much demand for them. On the secondary market they have always basically sold for the same price as the regular bleacher tickets.[/quote]Whomever came up with that idea should be beaten with reeds.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Isn’t that the “family section?”[/quote]
No, bleacher boxes aren’t the family section. They are reserved seating so people don’t have to get in line with Al 2 hours before the game. The family section is in the deepest part of the left field terrace that is adjacent to the foul pole.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Whomever came up with that idea should be beaten with reeds.[/quote]
Bleacher Boxes really is an oxymoron. Kind of like World Series Champion Chicago Cubs.
correct Melissa, but RF, not LF.
I believe LF and maybe RF, both lines, used to be the family section back in the day.
I can’t believe the Cubs are tied for first place. The NL Central must be really shitty.
I’m surprised they haven’t made it into and “all you can eat and drink” section for $300 yet.
[quote name=Horny Goat]correct Melissa, but RF, not LF.
I believe LF and maybe RF, both lines, used to be the family section back in the day.[/quote]
I’m not sure about RF. But I am sure that there is a family section in the LF terrace.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I can’t believe the Cubs are tied for first place. The NL Central must be really shitty.[/quote]
it just might work
[quote name=Horny Goat]correct Melissa, but RF, not LF.
I believe LF and maybe RF, both lines, used to be the family section back in the day.[/quote]
Family section was left field only, the last few years, anyway. I had the misfortune of being stuck there one game. No beer, sober is no way to be forced to watch the Cubs.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I can’t believe the Cubs are tied for first place. The NL Central must be really shitty.[/quote]Ricketts has to be happier than a pig in shit.
[quote name=Horny Goat]I’m surprised they haven’t made it into and “all you can eat and drink” section for $300 yet.[/quote]Let’s See What Happens.
[quote name=Horny Goat]I’m surprised they haven’t made it into and “all you can eat and drink” section for $300 yet.[/quote]
It’d be worth it if the ballpark food and beer weren’t so shitty.
Z celebrates after Reed’s HR. What a great teammate.
Is the Batter’s Eye section in Center an all you can eat and drink section? The Cubs have added the high priced CBOE box seats and increased prices behind home like the scout seats at U.S. Cellular but they don’t offer the food and drink with the cost of the ticket like the Sox do.
That’s an awesome picture of Z.
How dare Z selfishly jump up and down like that. He could be injured.
/Wittenmyer-Sullivanses
[quote name=melissa]Is the Batter’s Eye section in Center an all you can eat and drink section? The Cubs have added the high priced CBOE box seats and increased prices behind home like the scout seats at U.S. Cellular but they don’t offer the food and drink with the cost of the ticket like the Sox do.[/quote]
Batters eye is all you can eat/drink for parties of up to 100. Except for the early spring games, I can’t figure out for the life of me why you would want to do that though. Being inside at a baseball game sounds terrible.
Funny, the Cubs page for Premium Seating has the Bleacher Boxes listed alongside genuine luxury seating like the PNC Club and the Mezzanine Suites.
http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/chc/ticketing/premier_seating.jsp?content=mezz_suites
For a lazy Latin, Z has some pretty impressive hops.
[quote name=melissa]Family section was left field only, the last few years, anyway. I had the misfortune of being stuck there one game. No beer, sober is no way to be forced to watch the Cubs.[/quote]
in the bleachers? I guess I don’t know where exactly the family section is. It used to be in the bleachers before the “well”.
[quote name=Horny Goat]in the bleachers? I guess I don’t know where exactly the family section is. It used to be in the bleachers before the “well”.[/quote]
No, not in the bleachers. In the terrace section, on the opposite side of the foul pole from the left field bleachers.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]Batters eye is all you can eat/drink for parties of up to 100. Except for the early spring games, I can’t figure out for the life of me why you would want to do that though. Being inside at a baseball game sounds terrible.
[/quote]
yeah it would suck except for the bad weather days like this week and, well, most of the home games the cubs have had thus far. Pretty shitty weather at wrigley so far this year.
Re: bunting, I’m surprised and sort of pleased that Q let James Russell swing away in his one plate appearance. He actually did pretty well against Harang.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Re: bunting, I’m surprised and sort of pleased that Q let James Russell swing away in his one plate appearance. He actually did pretty well against Harang.[/quote]
should James Russell be swinging away like a mad man? (dying laughing)
[quote name=Horny Goat]should James Russell be swinging away like a mad man? (dying laughing)[/quote]
I don’t know how many minors plate appearances he’s had. He looked good though. It was a no-out situation so I think the Book says that it’s pretty much an auto-bunt situation. He ended up striking out on seven pitches (only had one bunt attempt in those seven) but he kept fouling away pitches, took two pitches for balls, and then looked at something knee high for the third strike. It was impressive, which isn’t much to say when talking about a pitcher.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I don’t know how many minors plate appearances he’s had. He looked good though. It was a no-out situation so I think the Book says that it’s pretty much an auto-bunt situation. He ended up striking out on seven pitches (only had one bunt attempt in those seven) but he kept fouling away pitches, took two pitches for balls, and then looked at something knee high for the third strike. It was impressive, which isn’t much to say when talking about a pitcher.[/quote]
I like hitters like Maddux who can do both… pull the bat back and punch it somewhere when the infield is playing in. That’s what they should be doing.
[quote name=Horny Goat]I like hitters like Maddux who can do both… pull the bat back and punch it somewhere when the infield is playing in. That’s what they should be doing.[/quote]
The 3B was playing way in. I was remarking to my son that if Russell didn’t suck, he could just dunk it over the 3B’s head for a double (dying laughing)
One of the guys in my section was talking to an usher and asked how fast they were able to shoo everyone out of the park after the first game, and the usher told him they didn’t. It sounds like they knew they weren’t going to get much of anybody showing up for the 2nd game, so they let anyone stay who wanted to.
There were a few guys in my seats that were talking like they had been there for the early game and since there was nobody else around, I just sat a few seats over. I have a feeling that’s just how it was.
[quote name=Aisle424]One of the guys in my section was talking to an usher and asked how fast they were able to shoo everyone out of the park after the first game, and the usher told him they didn’t. It sounds like they knew they weren’t going to get much of anybody showing up for the 2nd game, so they let anyone stay who wanted to.
There were a few guys in my seats that were talking like they had been there for the early game and since there was nobody else around, I just sat a few seats over. I have a feeling that’s just how it was.[/quote]
That’s actually kind of cool. I don’t see why they would shoo people out, but I could see them doing it anyways just to make sure nobody was getting free product.
And Reed was fucking retarded for trying for 3rd. There was no way on God’s green earth he was going to make it. We all yelled as soon as he took the turn around 2nd because everyone could see he was going to be out by a mile.
yeah, somebody mentioned earlier that they let everyone from the 1st game stay if they wanted. miserable conditions so I understand. I wonder how drunk some of those fans got by the end of the night (dying laughing)
question is..did they shoo all the seagulls out before the 2nd game?
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]That’s actually kind of cool. I don’t see why they would shoo people out, but I could see them doing it anyways just to make sure nobody was getting free product.[/quote]
They were supposed to. That was the plan, but I guess they said to hell with it. I didn’t see nay seat arguments. Like I said, there was plenty of seating available for everyone to get at least close to where they were supposed to be.
So all those people got Buy one get one free and I’m pissed because I paid full price and only got one game. I’M ONE OF THE CUBS BEST CUSTOMERS!!!
[quote name=Aisle424]And Reed was fucking retarded for trying for 3rd. There was no way on God’s green earth he was going to make it. We all yelled as soon as he took the turn around 2nd because everyone could see he was going to be out by a mile.[/quote]Johnny Cakes loved it.
[quote name=Aisle424]And Reed was fucking retarded for trying for 3rd. There was no way on God’s green earth he was going to make it. We all yelled as soon as he took the turn around 2nd because everyone could see he was going to be out by a mile.[/quote]
yeah, he screwed the cubs out of a possible big inning there. The Reed giveth, and the Reed taketh away.
Bell’s pitch to Barney for strike 3 was just a ridiculous pitch. Barney had no prayer.
[quote name=Aisle424]
So all those people got Buy one get one free and I’m pissed because I paid full price and only got one game. I’M ONE OF THE CUBS BEST CUSTOMERS!!![/quote]
I wonder how many bologna sandwiches Alvin brought with him to the ballpark today?
Honestly, I can’t understand why anyone would have stayed for the entire second game if they were there for the first. If it was me, I would have stayed for a few innings, and then warmed up at a bar across the street for the rest of the game.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Johnny Cakes loved it.[/quote]
Are you serious? Jesus Christ. If Soriano had done it, he would have been pissed as hell for taking an unnecessary risk while still down by 3 runs and the top of the order coming up.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Johnny Cakes loved it.[/quote]
I listened to Cakes’ drool-fest on that play. Pretty sure Reed was invited to Brenly’s patio in Lincoln Park tonight.
[quote name=Aisle424]Are you serious? Jesus Christ. If Soriano had done it, he would have been pissed as hell for taking an unnecessary risk while still down by 3 runs and the top of the order coming up.[/quote]I would say it was “fawning praise,” but that might not truly express the bromantic tone of Cakes’ praise for Reed’s Scraphustlgrittude.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]I wonder how many bologna sandwiches Alvin brought with him to the ballpark today?
Honestly, I can’t understand why anyone would have stayed for the entire second game if they were there for the first. If it was me, I would have stayed for a few innings, and then warmed up at a bar across the street for the rest of the game.[/quote]
It wasn’t too cold until about the 8th inning. I mean, it was cold, but if you dressed for it, it was fine. I’m sure Al had his long underwear and such. What else is he going to do? If he left, he wouldn’t be a real fan.
[quote name=Aisle424]Are you serious? Jesus Christ. If Soriano had done it, he would have been pissed as hell for taking an unnecessary risk while still down by 3 runs and the top of the order coming up.[/quote]
seriously. He was raving about his grittiness for a good 10 minutes.
There really is no hope for Cubs fans to become educated when the people doing the educating are so often so spectacularly wrong and mean-spirited. You’d think they’d occasionally hit a valid point by accident.
[quote name=Aisle424]And Reed was fucking retarded for trying for 3rd. There was no way on God’s green earth he was going to make it. We all yelled as soon as he took the turn around 2nd because everyone except Bob Brenly and Reed fans could see he was going to be out by a mile.[/quote]
Truth.
[quote name=Horny Goat]seriously. He was raving about his grittiness for a good 10 minutes.[/quote]
Are you sure he wasn’t saying dipshittiness? That’s what I was saying.
The best part of the night was when the Cubs awarded a prize to the fan sitting in a seat that doesn’t exist.
[quote name=Aisle424]Are you sure he wasn’t saying dipshittiness? That’s what I was saying.[/quote]
Any idea what was up with the SB attempt with Fukudome at bat? As soon as I saw him take off I thought “TOOTBLAN” especially since Kosuke didn’t swing.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Scraphustlgrittude.[/quote]
The lexicon grows
[quote name=Rice Cube]Any idea what was up with the SB attempt with Fukudome at bat? As soon as I saw him take off I thought “TOOTBLAN” especially since Kosuke didn’t swing.[/quote]
Who knows? Maybe a botched sign, maybe a missed sign by Kosuke. I don’t know. They put on a hit-and-run with Russell batting right before that so anything is possible.
[quote name=Aisle424]The best part of the night was when the Cubs awarded a prize to the fan sitting in a seat that doesn’t exist.[/quote]
I assumed that was a joke on twitter about Tom Tickets being cheap. Why isn’t there a Row 11 in that section?
[quote name=Aisle424]Who knows? Maybe a botched sign, maybe a missed sign by Kosuke. I don’t know. They put on a hit-and-run with Russell batting right before that so anything is possible.[/quote]
All we know for sure is that it was part of the master plan that Quade outlined during study hall when he was in junior high.
[quote name=Aisle424]Who knows? Maybe a botched sign, maybe a missed sign by Kosuke. I don’t know. They put on a hit-and-run with Russell batting right before that so anything is possible.[/quote]
These missed signs happen a lot. Almost as much as bad managering.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]I assumed that was a joke on twitter about Tom Tickets being cheap. Why isn’t there a Row 11 in that section?[/quote]
The Upper Deck Boxes only go to Row 10.
[quote name=Aisle424]The best part of the night was when the Cubs awarded a prize to the fan sitting in a seat that doesn’t exist.[/quote]This sounds like a job for Hipster Ricketts…
[quote name=Rice Cube]Any idea what was up with the SB attempt with Fukudome at bat? As soon as I saw him take off I thought “TOOTBLAN” especially since Kosuke didn’t swing.[/quote]
missed sign? that’s what I thought. Unless your name begins with Starlin, the Cubs probably shouldn’t try to straight steal much.
[quote name=Aisle424]The Upper Deck Boxes only go to Row 10.[/quote]
Wow. That’s pretty hilarious. You can’t make this shit up.
DeRosa, there is so much wrong with this team (dying laughing)
There might be a Row 11 in Aisle 421 or so where the handicap seats are on the concourse above where Row 10 would be, but that section negated at least Row 10 of regular seating when it was built out, so there is still really no more than 10 rows all the way around.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]Wow. That’s pretty hilarious. You can’t make this shit up.[/quote]
You really can’t.
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=13979111
SCIENCE!
That’s the multi-millionaire owner of a professional sports team.
[quote name=Rice Cube]http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=13979111
SCIENCE![/quote]
That was the lamest thing I’ve ever seen. He put a pitching machine on a remote control car and called it a robot. Then the thing couldn’t even get the pitch to the plate.
What is it called, The Grabow9000?
[quote name=Aisle424]That was the lamest thing I’ve ever seen. He put a pitching machine on a remote control car and called it a robot. Then the thing couldn’t even get the pitch to the plate.
What is it called, The Grabow9000?[/quote]
Nah. The robot knew to miss low instead of hanging the pitch.
Alright, I’m out fuckfaces.
[quote name=Aisle424]That was the lamest thing I’ve ever seen. He put a pitching machine on a remote control car and called it a robot. Then the thing couldn’t even get the pitch to the plate.
What is it called, The Grabow9000?[/quote]
we used that in high school batting practice.
[quote name=Horny Goat]we used that in high school batting practice.[/quote]
I was talking about Grabow.
B. Jackson 3/4, 2B, 3B, HR, K, BB
I was totally right about him. He strikes out too much.
In other news, don’t listen to a fucking word I say about the MLB draft this year.
Burgess 1/2, HR (5), 2 BB, K
AA, please.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]
[/quote]
(dying laughing)
Could Josh Vitters play RF?
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Could Josh Vitters play RF?[/quote]
Would you ask Tom Petty that?
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Could Josh Vitters play RF?[/quote]
http://www.couldsjoshvittersplayrf.com
That’s quite a stretch.
Like anyone could even know that. Even still, he likes how this team loses by less than last year’s team would?
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Like anyone could even know that. Even still, he likes how this team loses by less than last year’s team would?[/quote]
I basically posted this there.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Like anyone could even know that. Even still, he likes how this team loses by less than last year’s team would?[/quote]
He’s still bashing Piniella even though he took Al’s advice and went to tend to his mother.
[quote name=Suburban Kid]
[/quote](dying laughing)
http://walterfootball.com/draft2011emmitt.php
Carlos Pena has a .021 ISO.
[quote name=Mish]Carlos Pena has a .021 ISO.[/quote]
Put your fagety spreadsheets away. He has saved eleventy billion errors on defense.
[quote name=Aisle424]Put your fagety spreadsheets away. He has saved eleventy billion errors on defense.[/quote]Defensive metrics are pretty much useless at this point in the season, but it makes me laugh to see Pena at -3 DRS and -1 UZR. It’s not an indication of his defense so far, but how many expected outs he’s behind average. That could be because of a number of reasons having absolutely nothing to do with him, but if he’s saving eleventy billion errors as Bob suggests, this defense is even worse than I thought. And I thought it sucked.
Being that Colvin seems to be a butcher in RF, who will man that position next year? Anybody know the possible FA RF? Call-up maybe?
Or since April 2011 hasn’t even ended yet, are you guys going to wait awhile?
Pena has a career .280 babip. It’s .290 this year. His LD rate is a bit higher than last season too, but only 16.7%. That’s the same as it was in 2009 so Pena doesn’t hit many line drives, which is why his career babip is so low.
[quote name=Muck Muckintuck]Being that Colvin seems to be a butcher in RF, who will man that position next year? Anybody know the possible FA RF? Call-up maybe?
Or since April 2011 hasn’t even ended yet, are you guys going to wait awhile?[/quote]I don’t buy that he’s a butcher in RF. I know it’s been said on here before, but I just don’t buy it. The guy can play a more than capable CF so it seems a stretch to think he’s anything but above average as a fielder in RF. His aggregate defensive ratings (ADR) was average in RF last year.
Where or if Colvin plays next year will have to do with whether or not he can break out of this slump that he’s been in. If he does and hits like he did a year ago, he’ll play RF next year with Brett Jackson in CF and leading off.
[quote name=mb21]metrics are pretty much useless, it makes me laugh. DRS and UZR sucked.[/quote]
/Hawk
Seeing if I can get someone to give me a stat on “heart” at BCB. This should be fun.
[quote name=Muck Muckintuck]Being that Colvin seems to be a butcher in RF, who will man that position next year? Anybody know the possible FA RF? Call-up maybe?
Or since April 2011 hasn’t even ended yet, are you guys going to wait awhile?[/quote]
I believe Al has already declared that talking about next year’s roster is premature and therefore pointless. Please resume talking about how the team last year would have reacted to situations that arise this year. Thank you.
[quote name=Aisle424]I believe Al has already declared that talking about next year’s roster is premature and therefore pointless. Please resume talking about how the team last year would have reacted to situations that arise this year. Thank you.[/quote]If I care more I’d actually look back at the boxes because I remember a few games the Cubs blew the lead and still won. I also remember more than a few games in which the Cubs nearly won.
First place, woo!
[quote name=Berselius]First place, woo![/quote]They’re tied for first with the rest of the division. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I would say it was “fawning praise,” but that might not truly express the bromantic tone of Cakes’ praise for Reed’s Scraphustlgrittude.[/quote]Well he did blatantly orgasm when Reed’s walkoff reached the bleachers:
http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2011_04_20_sdnmlb_chnmlb_1&mode=video
I’m not faulting Brenly for being excited as a Cub announcer, but that was just unusual. I don’t think I’ve ever heard Brenly with an exclamation like that during play.
Too bad Brett Jackson wasn’t a triple short of the cycle, because that’s apparently awesome.
I’m assuming they made up a fake seat for that promotion knowing there was a possibility that two people inside the stadium might have had tickets to any winning seat they drew. And instead of doing the smart thing and only giving it to the ticketholder for the night game, they did the retarded thing and made up a seat that doesn’t exist.
[quote name=GBTS]I’m assuming they made up a fake seat for that promotion knowing there was a possibility that two people inside the stadium might have had tickets to any winning seat they drew. And instead of doing the smart thing and only giving it to the ticketholder for the night game, they did the retarded thing and made up a seat that doesn’t exist.[/quote]
I honestly don’t think it was intentional. I’m sure they just fucked it up like everything else they do.
As for what Brenly said when Reed tried for 3rd, he just said that he didn’t mind it. He said it would take two perfect throws and that was just one of those situations where two perfect throws were made. I don’t remember him saying much other than that, but if it was Soriano I’m betting he’d have been critical.
I thought it was dumb, but I don’t know that I think it was as dumb as some of you do. He was out by a long way, but the play was perfectly executed by the defense.
Tim, where was Reed at when Ludwick picked up the ball? For some reason I seem to remember replay showing he was around 2nd base already. I usually use that as a judge for whether it’s a dumb play. Coaches often teach you that if you’re around the base on a play like that then you try for the next one. You were there so you’d know more about where he was on the basepaths.
All that said, the Cubs were down 3, he was already in scoring position, unless he’s 95% certain or higher than he’ll reach 3rd safely then it’s an ill-advised play. Brenly was right that getting to 3rd would have potentially been big for the team. A sac fly or a routine grounder to SS or 2nd could score him. Passed ball, wild pitch, etc. When you’re down 3 though, it’s like stealing a base. You have to have a higher success rate if you’re going to steal when you’re behind by that much. The same thing is true here.
.
[quote name=Aisle424]I honestly don’t think it was intentional. I’m sure they just fucked it up like everything else they do.[/quote]Agreed. The Cubs may not be good at baseball, but they’re best at fucking shit up.
This is a baseball blog and last night at the OV Headquarters we decided we would only allow certain types of baseball discussion. We all agreed that we would no longer allow anyone to talk about anything about baseball that we don’t want to talk about.
Holy shit do I wish I had a Steve Perry account ready to go.
[quote name=mb21]This is a baseball blog and last night at the OV Headquarters we decided we would only allow certain types of baseball discussion. We all agreed that we would no longer allow anyone to talk about anything about baseball that we don’t want to talk about.[/quote]
Correct.
[quote name=GBTS]Holy shit do I wish I had a Steve Perry account ready to go.[/quote]I’m going to start saying that to any person I disagree with.
[quote name=Mish].[/quote]
I think he’s telling you he wants you to abduct him.
The thing that makes the Reed play somewhat dumb for me is the score. The problem with the Cubs over the last several years is that few people on the team have any clue what’s actually going on when they’re running the bases. Ever since Moises Alou stepped foot on the field in a Cubs uniform, Cubs baserunning has been a disaster.
I saw Reed turn 2nd without slowing down and I looked at Ludwick and he already had the ball, so I’m guessing he turned and the ball was picked up at about the same time.
And Brenly is full of shit that it would take two perfect throws to get him. Reed was out by a mile and you could tell he was going to be out by a mile almost no matter what the throw was like. Unless Bob considers any throw that isn’t dropped “perfect.” That just wasn’t true.
I’ll take your word for it then. Most importantly in my opinion, it was just a dumb decision on Reed’s part because they were down 3 runs. The difference in run expectation isn’t that large. With a runner on 2nd and 1 out, it’s .725 and with him on 3rd and 1 out, it’s .983. Nobody on base and 2 outs it .117.
So you need to make it to 3rd about 75% of the time to break even. It’s almost exactly like a stolen base.
I’ll look at win expectancy in a moment, but it’s going to increase the necessary percentage significantly.
I can’t find the huge WE chart I wanted to find, but let’s just say you need to be safe 9 out of 10 times to break even in that situation. So unless Reed was certain he was going to be safe, he never should have went. I don’t think you can ever be certain.
[quote name=Aisle424]Reed was out by a mile and you could tell he was going to be out by a mile almost no matter what the throw was like.[/quote]
Which cost the Cubs the game.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Which cost the Cubs the game.[/quote]
Yeah, this loss is on Reed. He’s on pace for 60 TOOTBLANS.
.
Did you see Yellon called you out, JG?
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Which cost the Cubs the game.[/quote]I was listening to the 8th inning on the radio when Soriano hit the home run to cut the lead to 1. Keith Moreland said he had no idea why Qualls would throw Soriano a fastball on an 0-2 count. I thought, Because they had a 3-run lead and Qualls figured the maximum potential damage was low enough that he could attack the strike zone more aggressively than usual. Had Soriano been the potential tying or go-ahead run, he probably would have seen a different pitch and the Cubs probably still would have lost.
Not that I’m arguing with you, JG. I know you’re just mocking Al.
Mish, your trolling was successful.
[quote name=GBTS]Did you see Yellon called you out, JG?[/quote]
I did not, but I’m excited to. Where?
I’m let down.
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
fun-suckers
Mish, just post the forest gif and end it.
http://dallas.sbnation.com/2011/4/19/2121837/tcus-matt-purke-out-indefinitely-with-shoulder-soreness
Oh Miiiish. I’m open and ready for you to insert your big numbers. Come here . . . I can’t measure heart, but I’ll give it a try for you, big fella.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Mish, just post the forest gif and end it.[/quote]I posted the compilation of “wrong” posts and left.
Is Braun going to be added to the forest gif?
(dying laughing) @ fun-sucker
[quote name=Mish]I posted the compilation of “wrong” posts and left.[/quote]
(dying laughing)
Awesome mish.
[quote name=Mish]I posted the compilation of “wrong” posts and left.[/quote]
Suck me, bitch.
[quote name=GBTS]Is Braun going to be added to the forest gif?[/quote]Mike Leake stole the forest gif.
Post that ryan braun image again and I’ll see if I can add it to the forest gif.
(dying laughing) at Mish tweeting his trolling efforts. (dying laughing) (dying laughing)
[quote name=AndCounting](dying laughing) at Mish tweeting his trolling efforts. (dying laughing) (dying laughing)[/quote]
I’m all in.
Damn it’s hilarious when Alvin gets all worked up over the “stat people”, starts talking shit on them, and then accuses them of insults.
classic.
I’m thankful I don’t have to watch a Cubs spreadsheet today. The numbers were making me dizzy.
[quote name=Mish]I posted the compilation of “wrong” posts and went my separate way[/quote]
/Journey’d
[quote name=Lukas]Damn it’s hilarious when Alvin gets all worked up over the “stat people”, starts talking shit on them, and then accuses them of insults.
classic.[/quote]It makes perfect sense. Statheads are fun-suckers.
(dying laughing)
[quote name=mb21]It makes perfect sense. Statheads are fun-suckers.[/quote]
He has just got to be trying to give us material now. This is too much. (dying laughing)
The discussion over there in a nutshell is this:
You’d think Al would be in a better mood.
http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/sports/sns-ap-bbo-mlb-diversity,0,790302.story?track=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
[quote name=AndCounting]The discussion over there in a nutshell is this:[/quote]
That seems about right.
[quote name=AndCounting]You’d think Al would be in a better mood.
http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/sports/sns-ap-bbo-mlb-diversity,0,790302.story?track=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter/quote
I’m guessing the one minority GM who was fired was Omar Minaya (not absolutely sure of his ethnicity but just going by name). While it is sad that not as many minorities get the big jobs, it’s kind of unfair of the article to not mention that Minaya sucked as a GM. I’m cool with minorities getting opportunities but they should actually be qualified to do it.
My friend just sent me a picture of the Wrigley Field marquee and a bunch of pictures and shit around it. Did they change the entrance? It looks like shit.
[quote name=AndCounting]The discussion over there in a nutshell is this:[/quote]
Yeah I seriously wasn’t even that antagonistic. I wasn’t throwing around stats or unconventional wisdom. I was simply pointing out that if you say this team clearly has more heart, you should be able to provide evidence (since it’s clear!) and have some quantification of it (since there’s more!). The fact that the troglodytes at BCB can’t follow is horrifyingly hilarious.
[quote name=AndCounting]The discussion over there in a nutshell is this:[/quote]That’s BCB in general. All. The. Time.
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/04/21/stat-head-setup-man-daniel-bard-reads-fan-graphs/
i think its time for Garza’s bullpen test. Think what a weapon he could be coming out of the pen in the 6th or 7th
[quote name=AndCounting]You’d think Al would be in a better mood.
http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/sports/sns-ap-bbo-mlb-diversity,0,790302.story?track=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter/quoteI like how the title is about how black percentages in MLB have fallen again and they show Starlin Castro “missing a single”. You see, Starlin Castro looks black and he’s “missing” the ball so that’s why the percentage has dropped.
[quote name=WaLi2]My friend just sent me a picture of the Wrigley Field marquee and a bunch of pictures and shit around it. Did they change the entrance? It looks like shit.[/quote]
They put up big pictures of the players over the chainlink fence. I actually think it looks better. The outside of Wrigley is ugly as shit.
[quote name=Aisle424]They put up big pictures of the players over the chainlink fence. I actually think it looks better. The outside of Wrigley is ugly as shit.[/quote]
Agreed. Wrigley has all the charm of a decaying warehouse from the outside.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I’m guessing the one minority GM who was fired was Omar Minaya (not absolutely sure of his ethnicity but just going by name). While it is sad that not as many minorities get the big jobs, it’s kind of unfair of the article to not mention that Minaya sucked as a GM. I’m cool with minorities getting opportunities but they should actually be qualified to do it.[/quote]Agreed. It seems most articles that talk about how fewer blacks are playing MLB seem to imply that it has to do with some sort of racism. While that may be a small part of it, the reality is that not as many black children are playing baseball today as they did in the past. As a result, there are going to be fewer blacks in MLB. Isn’t the percentage also equal to that of the general population anyway? Perhaps it’s reasonable to think that as blacks made their way into MLB that far more were signed than were worthy of it. That happens with Hispanic players now. Teams sign every person who is from the Dominican Republic these days. Men, women and children.
[quote name=Berselius]Agreed. Wrigley has all the charm of a decaying warehouse from the outside.[/quote]Is the inside really that much better? I know when you sit in your seat and stare out at the awesome looking baseball field it looks great. So does every other ballpark for that matter. I haven’t been to Wrigley in several years, but I remember the inside of the place pretty much being a piece of shit with the exception of where they play the game.
I think it still has appeal once you’re inside, but I definitely agree it looks like a dump from the street.
[quote name=Aisle424]They put up big pictures of the players over the chainlink fence. I actually think it looks better. The outside of Wrigley is ugly as shit.[/quote]
Around the chainlink would look okay. I found the photo he sent me.
I guess those pictures have been around for a while, I just don’t think they look good.
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/19082200
He’ll never leave you, no matter how hard you beat him. Also, he barks at coloreds.
[quote name=mb21]That’s BCB in general. All. The. Time.[/quote]
I always like when Al lumps people together in to an “ilk.” It really is the most condescending way to stereotype people with similar viewpoints.
[quote name=mb21]That’s BCB in general, All, The, Time.[/quote]fixed,
[quote name=Aisle424]I always like when Al lumps people together in to an “ilk.” It really is the most condescending way to stereotype people with similar viewpoints.[/quote]I’m proud to be part of the “ilk” Al doesn’t like. I’m doing something right. (dying laughing)
The most ridiculous thing about that whole BCB conversation was it started with the assumption that there was something different about this team as compared to last year. Because the team is pretty similar, Al decided to attribute the difference to “heart,” something that can be neither proven nor disproven.
To me, the team looks exactly the same as last year, and maybe even a little worse. The Cubs were basically a .500 team last year until June.
[quote name=mb21]Is the inside really that much better? I know when you sit in your seat and stare out at the awesome looking baseball field it looks great. So does every other ballpark for that matter. I haven’t been to Wrigley in several years, but I remember the inside of the place pretty much being a piece of shit with the exception of where they play the game.[/quote]
Yeah, basically everything about the panoramic view of the field is dumpy. But I like the old feel. I liked Chicago Stadium even though it was a rat infested hole. I like Fenway, which is pretty much the same as Wrigley except without the bullshit about no lights or advertising.
But as I get older, I have found myself wanting larger walkways, better concessions, comfortable seats, etc. I think that is because I go to so many games that I just get tired of people always being in the way. They can’t help it. They have put seats in every conceivable nook and cranny and minimized the traffic ways so much it can’t be helped, but it is so frustrating to get stuck behind people who have no clue where they are going, or seeing the same old shitty hot dog options at the concession stand.
But if I were to go to one baseball game per year just for baseball’s sake, it would be Wrigley in a landslide. But that’s just me. At the and of it all, I’d rather just watch a winning team.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]The most ridiculous thing about that whole BCB conversation was it started with the assumption that there was something different about this team as compared to last year. Because the team is pretty similar, Al decided to attribute the difference to “heart,” something that can be neither proven nor disproven.
To me, the team looks exactly the same as last year, and maybe even a little worse. The Cubs were basically a .500 team last year until June.[/quote]
What is hilarious is that he states it as a fact, and then gets pissed when someone challenges it and gets huffy that people are arguing his opinion. He will not or can not see the disconnect.
[quote name=Aisle424]Yeah, basically everything about the panoramic view of the field is dumpy. But I like the old feel. I liked Chicago Stadium even though it was a rat infested hole. I like Fenway, which is pretty much the same as Wrigley except without the bullshit about no lights or advertising.
But as I get older, I have found myself wanting larger walkways, better concessions, comfortable seats, etc. I think that is because I go to so many games that I just get tired of people always being in the way. They can’t help it. They have put seats in every conceivable nook and cranny and minimized the traffic ways so much it can’t be helped, but it is so frustrating to get stuck behind people who have no clue where they are going, or seeing the same old shitty hot dog options at the concession stand.
But if I were to go to one baseball game per year just for baseball’s sake, it would be Wrigley in a landslide. But that’s just me. At the and of it all, I’d rather just watch a winning team.[/quote]
Agree with all of that, though I go less often (dying laughing). I love Wrigley because the upper deck box seats are the best seats at any stadium in baseball. That’s only true at the expense of the terrace reserve seats, but fuck them (dying laughing).
[quote name=Berselius] I love Wrigley because the upper deck box seats are the best seats at any stadium in baseball. That’s only true at the expense of the terrace reserve seats, but fuck them (dying laughing).[/quote]
Is that really true? I think those might be the only seats in Wrigley I’ve never sat in.
I remember when I used to love Wrigley like you guys do, but other ballparks are just so much better to watch games at. Better food, better seating, better parking, better walkways, better everything. I love Great American Ballpark. It’s my favorite and when you sit in your seat and look out at the field I’m in awe. It’s just beautiful. I get the same feeling at Bank One (Chase field???), Wrigley and all the others.
Tim mentioned he’s more interested in comfort these days. I was at that point in my mid 20s, which was about the time I cleaned up. You guys must be drug addicts and alcoholics. (dying laughing)
Seriously though, I understand why people like it, but the old time look doesn’t appeal too much to me anymore. 10 or 15 years ago I’d have said Wrigley was the greatest ballpark around, but in 1998 I lived in Phoenix and went to a lot of Diamondbacks games in their first season. Ever since then I’ve much preferred the new ballparks. There’s a certain feeling that every baseball fans gets as he’s walking through the gates or as he first sees the field. For me, it’s the same no matter where it is. Minor league games too.
I’d say that’s when I first realized I didn’t care about Wrigley. I actually found myself enjoying minor league games more than sitting at Wrigley trying to watch a game in cramped seating.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]Is that really true? I think those might be the only seats in Wrigley I’ve never sat in.[/quote]Of course not. Everybody knows the left field bleachers are the best seats in all of baseball. I don’t even know what berselius is thinking. He’s not to have dinner tonight.
AT&T Park >>>>>>>>>>>> Wrigley.
US Cellular is newer than Wrigley, but the one time I went my friend and I were remarking that they didn’t seem to use their Jumbotron right. No replays or anything. Then again, the only major things happening were that Morneau hit a 3-run bomb and Juan Uribe had a solo homer, but they didn’t even replay Uribe’s homer. Is that common?
[quote name=mb21]I remember when I used to love Wrigley like you guys do, but other ballparks are just so much better to watch games at. Better food, better seating, better parking, better walkways, better everything. I love Great American Ballpark. It’s my favorite and when you sit in your seat and look out at the field I’m in awe. It’s just beautiful. I get the same feeling at Bank One (Chase field???), Wrigley and all the others.
Tim mentioned he’s more interested in comfort these days. I was at that point in my mid 20s, which was about the time I cleaned up. You guys must be drug addicts and alcoholics. (dying laughing)
Seriously though, I understand why people like it, but the old time look doesn’t appeal too much to me anymore. 10 or 15 years ago I’d have said Wrigley was the greatest ballpark around, but in 1998 I lived in Phoenix and went to a lot of Diamondbacks games in their first season. Ever since then I’ve much preferred the new ballparks. There’s a certain feeling that every baseball fans gets as he’s walking through the gates or as he first sees the field. For me, it’s the same no matter where it is. Minor league games too.
I’d say that’s when I first realized I didn’t care about Wrigley. I actually found myself enjoying minor league games more than sitting at Wrigley trying to watch a game in cramped seating.[/quote]
I think it depends. Some of the newer stadiums I like and some of them I don’t. There are no parks that I have ever been to that I enjoy going to more than going to Wrigley.
I enjoy the entire experience of taking the El (or walking to the park) down to Wrigleyville, having a few beers at one of the neighborhood bars, going to the game and having drinks afterwards at another bar. To me, the neighborhood is is essential to the Wrigley experience.
That to me is much more enjoyable than going to any of the new parks, even if they have better amenities.
[quote name=Rice Cube]AT&T Park >>>>>>>>>>>> Wrigley.
US Cellular is newer than Wrigley, but the one time I went my friend and I were remarking that they didn’t seem to use their Jumbotron right. No replays or anything. Then again, the only major things happening were that Morneau hit a 3-run bomb and Juan Uribe had a solo homer, but they didn’t even replay Uribe’s homer. Is that common?[/quote]I’ve only been there once. I wasn’t that impressed either.
I love replays. I don’t know why some people seem to be against them at a ballpark. We all like to see them on TV. Why wouldn’t we like to see them at the ballpark? One of the things that irritates me the most about any ballpark is that they don’t have as many replays as tv does. I love watching a perfect swing through the zone or an incredible defensive play.
[quote name=Hector Villanueva ]I think it depends. Some of the newer stadiums I like and some of them I don’t. There are no parks that I have ever been to that I enjoy going to more than going to Wrigley.
I enjoy the entire experience of taking the El (or walking to the park) down to Wrigleyville, having a few beers at one of the neighborhood bars, going to the game and having drinks afterwards at another bar. To me, the neighborhood is is essential to the Wrigley experience.
That to me is much more enjoyable than going to any of the new parks, even if they have better amenities.[/quote]I don’t drink anymore so maybe that’s the big difference. It is about the time I got sober that I started liking other ballparks. I can get in and out of GAB within 20 minutes. Those who have no idea where they’re parking it probably takes much longer, but I’ve been there enough times and have family that lives in Cincy.
I don’t care about the atmosphere anymore. I used to, but I stopped caring about that about the time I sobered up. I care much more about being able to get to and from the game much easier, comfort, food, and people not getting in my way. In other words, I like to sit at the ballpark, but feel like I’m sitting on my couch. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mish]I posted the compilation of “wrong” posts and left.[/quote]link?
This is a really nice gesture by Ankiel…
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/04/21/the-anti-franklin-rick-ankiel-thanks-the-fans-of-st-louis/
The atmosphere at a baseball game pales in comparison to a football game anyway. Especially college football in Iowa City (or Madison). I don’t even drink, but I’d much prefer that atmosphere over the ballpark atmosphere around Wrigley.
Most importantly, I care about the Cubs maximizing revenue. My likes and dislikes come second. If putting landmines throughout the seating would increase revenue, I’d favor it. I wouldn’t go, but I’d be in favor of it.
[quote name=mb21]I don’t drink anymore so maybe that’s the big difference. It is about the time I got sober that I started liking other ballparks. I can get in and out of GAB within 20 minutes. Those who have no idea where they’re parking it probably takes much longer, but I’ve been there enough times and have family that lives in Cincy.
I don’t care about the atmosphere anymore. I used to, but I stopped caring about that about the time I sobered up. I care much more about being able to get to and from the game much easier, comfort, food, and people not getting in my way. In other words, I like to sit at the ballpark, but feel like I’m sitting on my couch. (dying laughing)[/quote]
That makes sense to me. I still think there is something to be said for the antique feel of Wrigley Field, but that is surely a matter of taste.
[quote name=mb21]The atmosphere at a baseball game pales in comparison to a football game anyway. Especially college football in Iowa City (or Madison). I don’t even drink, but I’d much prefer that atmosphere over the ballpark atmosphere around Wrigley.
[/quote]
One of the reasons I like going to Brewers games is the fact that tailgating is encouraged.
[quote name=Berselius]One of the reasons I like going to Brewers games is the fact that tailgating is encouraged.[/quote](dying laughing) Are they the only MLB team that has tailgating? When I moved to Phoenix I lived near the ASU campus and the first football Saturday I walked down there thinking there would be a bunch of people partying. Nothing. I thought the game had been canceled or something. Then I realized that tailgating is something that isn’t encouraged everywhere.
[quote name=mb21]The atmosphere at a baseball game pales in comparison to a football game anyway. Especially college football in Iowa City (or Madison). I don’t even drink, but I’d much prefer that atmosphere over the ballpark atmosphere around Wrigley.
Most importantly, I care about the Cubs maximizing revenue. My likes and dislikes come second. If putting landmines throughout the seating would increase revenue, I’d favor it. I wouldn’t go, but I’d be in favor of it.[/quote]
I couldn’t agree more. There is nothing better for me than a Saturday at Memorial Stadium for a Nebraska Game.
[quote name=mb21](dying laughing) Are they the only MLB team that has tailgating? When I moved to Phoenix I lived near the ASU campus and the first football Saturday I walked down there thinking there would be a bunch of people partying. Nothing. I thought the game had been canceled or something. Then I realized that tailgating is something that isn’t encouraged everywhere.[/quote]
The White Sox have tailgating too. I’m sure there are probably others.
[quote name=mb21](dying laughing) Are they the only MLB team that has tailgating? When I moved to Phoenix I lived near the ASU campus and the first football Saturday I walked down there thinking there would be a bunch of people partying. Nothing. I thought the game had been canceled or something. Then I realized that tailgating is something that isn’t encouraged everywhere.[/quote]
I have no idea. I assume you can tailgate if you want to in other teams’ lots, but there are giant hot coal receptacles all over the parking lot at Miller Park. They also have pavilions you can rent for a larger cookout if you have more people coming. One of my college friends worked for some Milwaukee company that would do its huge company picnics there each year.
[quote name=Lukas]I couldn’t agree more. There is nothing better for me than a Saturday at Memorial Stadium for a Nebraska Game.[/quote]
Or taking my dog out at 7 am in madison and saying hi to the dozens of people drinking on the porch next door (dying laughing)
I was supposed to meet GBTS before Rays/Sox for tailgating, so I’m assuming the Cell allows it.
[quote name=Mish]I was supposed to meet GBTS before Rays/Sox for tailgating, so I’m assuming the Cell allows it.[/quote]
[quote name=Lukas]I couldn’t agree more. There is nothing better for me than a Saturday at Memorial Stadium for a Nebraska Game.[/quote]I wish I could get up there to see the Iowa game this year, but I’m not going to make it. I’m planning to go to the next two between the teams though. I cannot wait for Iowa/Nebraska. I’m sure Nebraska probably wins 7 of 10 over the long run, but as a Hawkeyes fan I’m really excited for that rivalry to start.
[quote name=Berselius]I have no idea. I assume you can tailgate if you want to in other teams’ lots, but there are giant hot coal receptacles all over the parking lot at Miller Park. They also have pavilions you can rent for a larger cookout if you have more people coming. One of my college friends worked for some Milwaukee company that would do its huge company picnics there each year.[/quote]I’m sure you can, but tailgating by yourself wouldn’t be much fun. Tailgating with only a few people wouldn’t be either. It’s up and down almost every street near Kinnick so you have to leave early if you want to make it to the game on time. Game starts at 11 so you’ve got to be parked no later than 6 am. (dying laughing)
Totally worth the time.
Today’s unedited Alvin comment.
FYI, the Oakland Coliseum allows tailgating before A’s games. That place is an epic dump though so whatever they can do to make things more fun and distract the fans from the fact that they’re watching the game in a toilet bowl is good.
[quote name=mb21]I wish I could get up there to see the Iowa game this year, but I’m not going to make it. I’m planning to go to the next two between the teams though. I cannot wait for Iowa/Nebraska. I’m sure Nebraska probably wins 7 of 10 over the long run, but as a Hawkeyes fan I’m really excited for that rivalry to start.[/quote]
Yeah I’m really excited for the Big 10. There’s just been so much talk about it since last year, I want to see it already. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Today’s unedited Alvin comment.[/quote]
I don’t believe you.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I don’t believe you.[/quote]
Alvin’s comment is copied exactly as he posted it.
[quote name=Rice Cube]FYI, the Oakland Coliseum allows tailgating before A’s games. That place is an epic dump though so whatever they can do to make things more fun and distract the fans from the fact that they’re watching the game in a toilet bowl is good.[/quote]
You don’t have to tell me…I was there.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Today’s unedited Alvin comment.[/quote]
(dying laughing)
I’m guessing Mish was banned after all that. The “wrong” post seems to have been deleted.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]Alvin’s comment is copied exactly as he posted it.[/quote]
He really is evil then. Although one should be allowed to love whoever one chooses.
Alvin is a fucking 10-year-old girl.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]You don’t have to tell me…I was there.[/quote]
The poor A’s kept getting crapshot in the playoffs. It made me sad.
[quote name=Rice Cube]The poor A’s kept getting crapshot in the playoffs. It made me sad.[/quote]
I was there back when they were winners: A brief window in the late 1980s.
Muskat on Reedz:
Nobody mentions the TOOTBLANs.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]I was there back when they were winners: A brief window in the late 1980s.[/quote]
Ah, was not aware you were a NorCal resident. 1989 was a pretty good year.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Cubs manager Mike Quade on Johnson: “What makes him such a great player off the bench is he knows his role and is ready for any situation.” [/quote]
In other words, Quade doesn’t have to let Johnson know his plans in advance.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Ah, was not aware you were a NorCal resident. 1989 was a pretty good year.[/quote]
On and off from 1978 to 1995.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]On and off from 1978 to 1995.[/quote]
Therefore, you weren’t there in 1996 nor in 2010.
new stuff: http://www.obstructedview.net/chicago-cubs/articles/ov-roundtable-part-1.html
Not banned from BCB! Now talking about how I think God is dead.
I feel it’s worth mentioning that losing by less than last year’s team is in fact a sign of a better team. If you have two 3-3 teams and their gamelogs look like this (the team will be on the left in both cases):
1-5
2-1
2-7
3-2
2-9
4-2
vs
4-5
5-1
5-7
7-2
7-9
6-2
The second team, to that point, is clearly the far, far superior team. That’s a super small sample size, but it is true that losing by less and winning by more is a sign of a better team.
That really has no meaning in terms of this team so far, what with the small sample and the fact that we’ve both won and lost most games by a tiny amount.
I just felt it was worth mentioning.