As of last night’s games, the American League Wild Card standings are all tied up and the National League Wild Card standings are separated by a single game with two days remaining in the regular season.
This is exciting for baseball fans no matter the circumstances, but these particular close races were not always so. The Red Sox are heading for an epic collapse that would easily rank as the 3rd worst collapse in the history of the game, or possibly even the absolute worst ever, according to Nate Silver of the New York Times. He shows that not all streaks are created equal and the height of the Red Sox play earlier in the season is shocking when compared to the depths at which the team is finishing the season:
…the team with the worst finish to the season among those that had played .600 baseball beforehand was the 1969 Chicago Cubs. They started their year 84-53 but finished 8-17, turning a five-game lead over the New York Mets into an eight-game deficit…
So even if the Red Sox win their final two games, they will still match the 1969 Cubs for late-season futility — the team that, prior to the Bartman Ball, had been most closely associated with the franchise’s alleged curse.
Take that, Mr. Goat.
The full article is very interesting and I encourage folks to go over and read it to gather some appreciation for what is happening to the Red Sox right now, but I’m going to stick with the simple Coolstandings.com projections to give a big picture view of what is happening because while Boston is melting down in spectacular fashion, the Braves are also in the middle of an historic collapse of their own.
While Boston reached a high of 99.6% likelihood of making the playoffs on September 3rd (good for 3rd worst collapse by percentage), the Atlanta Braves reached a high of 98.3% likelihood of making the playoffs on September 8th. If the Cardinals catch the Braves, the collapse would be the 6th worst in baseball history (before this year).
So if both of these races finish with the Red Sox and the Braves both missing the playoffs, the all-time collapse standings would be:
- 1995 California Angels – 99.9%
- 1951 Brooklyn Dodgers – 99.7%
- 2011 Boston Red Sox – 99.6%
- 2007 New York Mets – 99.5%
- 1934 New York Giants – 99.2%
- 1999 Cincinnati Reds – 98.4%
- 2011 Atlanta Braves – 98.3%
- 1962 Los Angeles Dodgers – 98.1%
- 2003 Seattle Mariners – 96.8%
- 1964 Philadelphia Phillies – 96.3%
Meanwhile the 1969 Cubs would come in 12th at 95.8%. In fact, only one of the two collapses has to come to fruition to push the Cubs out of the top ten, so we have that to root for.
So is this the Year of the Choke? No other year have TWO such high ranking choke jobs, but it is interesting to note that 2001 and 2007 both had THREE teams ranked in the top 50 all-time collapses.
In 2001, the Red Sox were at 87.6% (31st), the Cubs (MACK NEWTON!), 86.0% (37th), and Twins, 85.9% (38th). Then in 2007, the Mets were at 99.5% (3rd), the Padres, 92.8% (18th), and the Tigers, 88.7% (29th). So do three teams all choking away Top 50 leads outweigh two top ten collapses? I don’t know, but it is interesting. Especially considering I’ve never considered the 2001 Cubs to be chokers instead of just a bad baseball team that played over its head for awhile and then fell back to where it should be.
So these rankings certainly have flaws, and they were not all the product of the team disintegrating. Some, like the 1951 Dodgers, were outplayed by teams that went out of their heads. But these two teams falling off pretty steep cliffs at the same time sure is fun for those of us fans who know a little something about losing in spectacular fashion.
Boston… Atlanta… I just want to tell you both good luck, and we’re all counting on you.
That Mets 07 collapse was pretty epic.
Love the tags.
Rockies rookies:
Who’s the one on the far right dressed as Jabba the Hutt?
[quote name=Aisle424]Who’s the one on the far right dressed as Jabba the Hutt?[/quote]That’s Jason Giambi. I thought he wanted to be Han Solo but I guess it does come off as originally-deleted-scene-but-wasn’t-because-George-Lucas-is-a-faget-Jabba.
[quote name=Rice Cube]
Rockies rookiesOV Fantasy Team:[/quote].
I think we need a tag that says “This Is Becoming About Motherfucking Star Wars”
[quote name=GBTS]I think we need a tag that says “This Is Becoming About Motherfucking Star Wars”[/quote]This tag will become the ultimate power in the universe.
The Giants were heavily favored to win the West at one point, but that had more to do with their projection than having a commanding lead.
[quote name=Rice Cube]This tag will become the ultimate power in the universe.[/quote]
Don’t be too proud of this meme you’ve constructed. The ability to destroy all humor in a joke is insignificant next to the power of the Force.
Speaking of collapses, and with the mention of Bartman, here comes a shameless semi-plug: my dad and his friend have been writing a book called “Mad Ball: The Steve Bartman Play” that should be available on Amazon and elsewhere in about 2 weeks. Because of the book, they were interviewed for the documentary “Catching Hell” which premieres on ESPN tonight at 8:00 EST. I’ve seen it at the premiere and it’s an excellent movie about scapegoating in sports generally. My old man makes an appearance about 2/3 of the way through (and the director mostly makes fun of him for being a nut). On last night’s Chicago Fox news, Bob Sirott did a segment about both the book and the movie, and you can watch that at the link below. Anyway, I’m just getting the word out, mostly because it’s surreal that my dad is actually appearing in mass media shit (dying laughing)
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/opinion/bob-sirott-one-more-thing-steve-bartman-20110926
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Speaking of collapses, and with the mention of Bartman, here comes a shameless semi-plug: my dad and his friend have been writing a book called “Mad Ball: The Steve Bartman Play” that should be available on Amazon and elsewhere in about 2 weeks. Because of the book, they were interviewed for the documentary “Catching Hell” which premieres on ESPN tonight at 8:00 EST. I’ve seen it at the premiere and it’s an excellent movie about scapegoating in sports generally. My old man makes an appearance about 2/3 of the way through (and the director mostly makes fun of him for being a nut). On last night’s Chicago Fox news, Bob Sirott did a segment about both the book and the movie, and you can watch that at the link below. Anyway, I’m just getting the word out, mostly because it’s surreal that my dad is actually appearing in mass media shit (dying laughing)
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/opinion/bob-sirott-one-more-thing-steve-bartman-20110926[/quote]That’s really cool. Congratulations to Daddy Cock.
If they have this doc on replay later I can catch it, but lack of cable prevents me from watching it live
[quote name=GBTS]I think we need a tag that says “This Is Becoming About Motherfucking Star Wars”[/quote]
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]Speaking of collapses, and with the mention of Bartman, here comes a shameless semi-plug: my dad and his friend have been writing a book called “Mad Ball: The Steve Bartman Play” that should be available on Amazon and elsewhere in about 2 weeks. Because of the book, they were interviewed for the documentary “Catching Hell” which premieres on ESPN tonight at 8:00 EST. I’ve seen it at the premiere and it’s an excellent movie about scapegoating in sports generally. My old man makes an appearance about 2/3 of the way through (and the director mostly makes fun of him for being a nut). On last night’s Chicago Fox news, Bob Sirott did a segment about both the book and the movie, and you can watch that at the link below. Anyway, I’m just getting the word out, mostly because it’s surreal that my dad is actually appearing in mass media shit (dying laughing)
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/opinion/bob-sirott-one-more-thing-steve-bartman-20110926[/quote]That’s really cool. It’s funny how much is put on a fan doing what most any fan would do, and nothing is put on the poor defensive play that followed, even though that’s what that guy is paid for. I’ve wondered if Alou’s crazy reaction didn’t have more to do with unsettling the team than anything Bartman did.
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/2010/06/19/2010-06-19_pittsburgh_pirate_pierogi_mascot_fired_for_bashing_team_on_facebook_page.html
(dying laughing)
Anyone agree with MLBTR that Z ——-> Miami?
[quote name=josh]Anyone agree with MLBTR that Z ——-> Miami?[/quote]I wouldn’t be surprised.
I also think it would be hilarious if they flipped Z for Nolasco.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I wouldn’t be surprised.
I also think it would be hilarious if they flipped Z for Nolasco.[/quote]The Cubs should try to get ahold of that Leo Nunez kid. What’s that? Doesn’t exist you say? Interessssting.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I wouldn’t be surprised.
I also think it would be hilarious if they flipped Z for Nolasco.[/quote]Now that I take a second glance, MLBTR is quoting Paul Sullivan, so maybe that’s not the most reliable of opinions. Still, if there’s one manager in all of baseball who would put up with his shit, it’s Ozzie.
I say that with all the love for Z, as a baseball player, in the world.
[quote name=josh]Now that I take a second glance, MLBTR is quoting Paul Sullivan, so maybe that’s not the most reliable of opinions. Still, if there’s one manager in all of baseball who would put up with his shit, it’s Ozzie.[/quote]maybe we’ll trade Z for Joey Cora and name him manager
I love the little logos on the cliff sign. (dying laughing)
wgc, that’s really cool. When the book comes out, feel free to post an Unobstructed View about it. Or do it whenever you want for that matter.
[quote name=mb21]I love the little logos on the cliff sign. (dying laughing)
wgc, that’s really cool. When the book comes out, feel free to post an Unobstructed View about it. Or do it whenever you want for that matter.[/quote]Cool – will do thanks. I’ve only read a rough first draft, so it’ll be interesting to see how the editors tore it apart (dying laughing) The main thrust of the book is that they argue that the interference rule was misapplied by the umpire. It’s an interesting take. Everyone focuses on whether Bartman or Alou or Alex Gonzalez was to blame, but not a lot of attention was given to whether the umpire blew the call.
[quote name=josh] It’s funny how much is put on a fan doing what most any fan would do, and nothing is put on the poor defensive play that followed, even though that’s what that guy is paid for.[/quote]True, though I hate it when people get enraged at players for making mistakes.
It like when BoSox fans talk of “forgiving” Buckner. How presumptuous! Buckner didn’t wrong his fans (morally) in any way. What’s there to forgive him for?
I’ve gone back and forth on interference. When I first watched I thought it was obviously interference, but after a year or so I’m just not sure. I don’t think the camera angle tells us one way or the other since it’s not straight on.
If MLB had some type of replay system I’d assume that it would be similar to NCAA and NFL in that in order to overturn the call on the field there would have to be sufficient evidence to do so. I’m not sure that exists.
I’m glad someone is talking about, because I think that’s where the discussion should be and NOT on Bartman. Even if Bartman technically interfered, he’s just a fan doing what 99% of the fans would do in that situation. We really shouldn’t even know his name and it’s a shame we do. Isn’t it also less likely the umpires call interference for the home team?
I said it at the time and I’ll say it again, that game didn’t change when Bartman interfered. It changed when Alou threw a fit. I can’t be upset at him as it was nothing more than a reaction, but that action by him changed the game from the Cubs being 5 outs away and almost certainly headed to the World Series to “what the fuck just happened and how they can possibly win now?” At least that’s how I felt about it at the time.
[quote name=mb21]I said it at the time and I’ll say it again, that game didn’t change when Bartman interfered. It changed when Alou threw a fit. I can’t be upset at him as it was nothing more than a reaction, but that action by him changed the game from the Cubs being 5 outs away and almost certainly headed to the World Series to “what the fuck just happened and how they can possibly win now?” At least that’s how I felt about it at the time.[/quote]That’s my take exactly. He unsettled everyone. It was just enough of a negative response to tip that balance toward pessimism. Imagine if he laughs it off and takes a relaxed, “no big deal, because we still are in the driver seat” attitude. Well, it’s easy to play the what if game.
[quote name=mb21]I said it at the time and I’ll say it again, that game didn’t change when Bartman interfered. It changed when Alou threw a fit. I can’t be upset at him as it was nothing more than a reaction, but that action by him changed the game from the Cubs being 5 outs away and almost certainly headed to the World Series to “what the fuck just happened and how they can possibly win now?” At least that’s how I felt about it at the time.[/quote]I felt the same way, though Alou is interviewed in Catching Hell and I have some sympathy for him now. He makes a pretty sympathetic argument.
[quote name=WenningtonsGorillaCock]I felt the same way, though Alou is interviewed in Catching Hell and I have some sympathy for him now. He makes a pretty sympathetic argument.[/quote]The pressure on those guys, or any Cubs player who gets close, must be unreal.
[quote name=Rice Cube]If they have this doc on replay later I can catch it, but lack of cable prevents me from watching it live
[/quote]
If you can’t watch the movie, Bill Simmons interviews the director on today’s podcast which more or less sums up the movie’s intent, if not exactly the effect:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espnradio/podcast/archive?id=2864045
[quote name=mb21]
I’m glad someone is talking about, because I think that’s where the discussion should be and NOT on Bartman. Even if Bartman technically interfered, he’s just a fan doing what 99% of the fans would do in that situation. We really shouldn’t even know his name and it’s a shame we do. Isn’t it also less likely the umpires call interference for the home team?[/quote]Watching the clip (the abbreviated version on YouTube, anyway), I think the announcers and camera crew were partly to blame. There was way too much putting the camera on him and asking, “What was he thinking?”
[quote name=ACT]Watching the clip (the abbreviated version on YouTube, anyway), I think the announcers and camera crew were partly to blame. There was way too much putting the camera on him and asking, “What was he thinking?”[/quote]Personally, I wouldn’t remember his name if it didn’t happen to be the same that Bart Simpson used when he pretended to be a superhero.
They show that play about 10 times as if it were the pivotal play of the game.
[quote name=ACT]They show that play about 10 times as if it were the pivotal play of the game.[/quote]That didn’t help the fans, for sure. It can’t have affected the players, though, right? Maybe just in the general unease that permeated the crowd watching it on the various monitors or something.
I’m just talking about the fan reaction, not the game itself. I have a feeling that the TV production threw fuel on the fire.
[quote name=ACT]I’m just talking about the fan reaction, not the game itself. I have a feeling that the TV production threw fuel on the fire.[/quote]They admit as much in the documentary. Steve Lyons for one says he feels really bad about it.
[quote name=ACT]I’m just talking about the fan reaction, not the game itself. I have a feeling that the TV production threw fuel on the fire.[/quote]Yup. I remember even as I was watching it live getting really upset because I thought it would be really negative for the guy. Never imagined it would get so out of hand, tho.
[quote name=josh]That didn’t help the fans, for sure. It can’t have affected the players, though, right? Maybe just in the general unease that permeated the crowd watching it on the various monitors or something.[/quote]The collective holding-of-breath created a vacuum effect that caused the would-be-DP-grounder to make a tricky bounce that Alex Gonzalez couldn’t handle.
/butterfly effect’d
Not down with OBP.
“ESPN Bartman Doc Leads to Media Navel Gazing” (dying laughing)
http://chicagoist.com/2011/09/27/espn_bartman_doc_leads_to_media_nav.php
MLB.com is only charging $3.99 for mlb.tv the next two days. I’ve been paying $20 a month all season. I sent them an angry letter.
Dear lord Bartolo Colon is beefy.
Sox are down again. So’s Atlanta (though that’s less surprising).
I listened to Simmons podcast on my commute home today, and it was kind of frustrating. Both he and the director are Red Sox fans so they viewed the whole Bartman thing through that lens. It was frustrating to hear Simmons talk about how Sox fans had forgiven Buckner long before they won the WS and that national media types like the two of them are what have really kept that whole thing alive. On the other hand it sounds like a lot more of the focus has been on what happened the day of/day after the game, when Cubs fans were much more upset and irrational about it.
Zobrist!
Rays take the lead on a 2-run HR by Zobrist. I think the Rays at this point must be considered the favorites to win the AL WC title.
Ben Zobrist sucks not at baseball.
[quote name=ACT]Rays take the lead on a 2-run HR by Zobrist. I think the Rays at this point must be considered the favorites to win the AL WC title.[/quote] Picking nit: is the WC technically a title? (dying laughing)
Mish you pay for airfare and hotel and we’ll go the game tomorrow.
By Grapthar’s hammer, Ellsbury is red-hot
The Cubs were also 1 win away from the World Series with 3 games left in 1984. In all three of those games, the Cubs had the lead as late as the fifth inning.
[quote name=Berselius]By Grapthar’s hammer, Ellsbury is red-hot[/quote]I know he lost the MVP last night, did he win it back tonight?
The pendulum swings back in Boston’s favor.
So have we realized yet that if the Orioles win two and the Cubs lose two, not only are the Rays likely to win the WC, but the Cubs get the #4 draft pick?
GOOOOOOOOOO ORIOLES! Cubs, just keep on doin’ your thing.
[quote name=fang2415]So have we realized yet that if the Orioles win two and the Cubs lose two, not only are the Rays likely to win the WC, but the Cubs get the #4 draft pick?
GOOOOOOOOOO ORIOLES! Cubs, just keep on doin’ your thing.[/quote]Ah dammit, actually that’s wrong. The Cubs and O’s would be tied at 70-92 and the O’s had a worse record last year, so the Cubs would still get #5. But the Cubs can gain a draft pick over the Padres by losing to them just once. Still want.
[quote name=fang2415]Ah dammit, actually that’s wrong. The Cubs and O’s would be tied at 70-92 and the O’s had a worse record last year, so the Cubs would still get #5. But the Cubs can gain a draft pick over the Padres by losing to them just once. Still want.[/quote]Yup…no #4 pick for the Cubs. I was bummed when I found that out too (dying laughing)
Still kinda cool that a head-to-head matchup will determine a draft pick though. It’s hard to imagine how a smart team doesn’t try to lose in that situation.
[quote name=fang2415]Still kinda cool that a head-to-head matchup will determine a draft pick though. It’s hard to imagine how a smart team doesn’t try to lose in that situation.[/quote]What if it meant the Cubs ending with a winning road record?
[quote name=GBTS]What if it meant the Cubs ending with a winning road record?[/quote]
Would you ask Tom Petty that question?
[quote name=fang2415]Still kinda cool that a head-to-head matchup will determine a draft pick though. It’s hard to imagine how a smart team doesn’t try to lose in that situation.[/quote]I don’t think they can actively tank (dying laughing)
I wouldn’t want them to anyway. Plus I’d like to see Matt Garza go out on a high note. With this year’s Cubs though you may get your wish (dying laughing)
Thank DeRosa that the last game tomorrow starts at 8:35 ET and not after 10. I think I’d be asleep by the second inning (dying laughing)
Yeah, I want to see Garza pitch against a terrible offense in a pitcher’s park. It should be a nice cap to a good season.
[quote name=Berselius]Would you ask Tom Petty that question?[/quote]You only come here to bash me.
I do like watching Garza pitch well. Maybe Marmol can blow it for him again. (dying laughing)
I wonder why the Braves continue to trot out Derek Lowe in must-win situations, but perhaps that is a silly thing to wonder about.
[quote name=GBTS]You only come here to bash me.[/quote]
Correct.
Quade’s lineup tonight suggests he wants to squeeze one more win out of this season.
Cardinals are very creative in how they hit into double plays.
[quote name=Berselius]Correct.[/quote]I can’t argue with you today.
Luckily for the Rays they are leading their game right now.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Quade’s lineup tonight suggests he wants to squeeze one more turd out of this season.[/quote]
That sentence was asking for it (dying laughing)
[quote name=Berselius]That sentence was asking for it (dying laughing)[/quote]Nice snark.
i saw catching hell a month ago. No desire to see it again
Orioles: inching back.
Wow, Braves. Wow.
[quote name=ACT]Wow, Braves. Wow.[/quote]What’s even more wow is that the Cards won’t destroy the Astros. It’s as if nobody wants to win the wild card except for the Rays (dying laughing)
I think Tito just told Bedard that he looks tired.
The Rays have had some devastating setbacks as well (the DH sweep the the Yanks, for instance).
The Cardinals really don’t want their gift-wrapped wild card berth. I guess they should just stay home then.
I’m kind of surprised Bedard got the hook so soon. He was mowing through the Os lineup just an inning ago.
I guess the Sox don’t have to worry as much about their pen today though.
Ruh roh Rays!
Or I could look at hte fucking box score and see that he was at 84 pitches through three innings and change (dying laughing)
Cano thinks Cano is the MVP…
Additional draft watch items…Florida can tie the Cubs for season record and the Cubs would still be ahead, but not true for the Royals. So…go Royals!
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Cardinals (dying laughing)
Oh wow. I’m so glad I’m not a Cardinal fan.
[quote name=Rice Cube](dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Cardinals (dying laughing)[/quote]
Correct.
I was hoping to see Pujols and Berkman in the postseason again but I guess they’d rather go fishing.
[quote name=Dayn Perry]In the interests of tolerable baseball, they should probably 86 the NL WC this season and give the Phils a bye.[/quote]
.
Rays are in serious trouble now.
The Phillies keep tacking on against the Braves as if saying “fuck you guys” to the Cardinals (dying laughing)
Maddon with yet another terrible intentional walk. I refuse to root for a team that gives away free bases like that.
[quote name=ACT]Maddon with yet another terrible intentional walk. I refuse to root for a team that gives away free bases like that.[/quote]Lucky you’re not a Cardinals fan then.
Holy shit, a triple play
Hoooooooooooly shit.
[quote name=Berselius]Holy shit, a triple play[/quote]The IBB worked one batter too late (dying laughing) (dying laughing) (dying laughing)
[quote name=Berselius]Holy shit, a triple play[/quote]Shut me right up.
[quote name=ACT]Maddon with yet another terrible intentional walk. I refuse to root for a team that gives away free bases like that.[/quote]
Maddon is a genius. He knew that triple play was coming (dying laughing)
[quote name=ACT]Shut me right up.[/quote]Shut me right up too, I thought the IBB forced in a run (wasn’t paying attention, watching the Cards implode)
Or rather, the IBB was followed by a run-scoring play before the triple play. Too much random shit going on tonight.
IBB’ing the go-ahead run in would get Maddon fired and possibly murdered.
[quote name=ACT]Maddon with yet another terrible intentional walk. I refuse to root for a team that gives away free bases like that.[/quote]
This drives me nuts too. I still like him though.
Albert Pujols is not clutch
Gah, Stupid Crawford and Scutaro
Adam Dunn 0-2, 2 K. Film at 11.
Damn Astros insist on making things interesting.
Watch both wild card races be tied after tomorrow. Game 163 x 2 please.
Just watched the triple play. Martin slid headfirst into first base. Urge to kill rising.
[quote name=ACT]Just watched the triple play. Martin slid headfirst into first base. Urge to kill rising.[/quote]Grindy.
Corey Patterson —> hero?
Corey Patterson divided by zero…I don’t remember him taking a walk like that before.
BANANAS
Joyce!
Rays take the lead on yet another Rafael Soriano meltdown.
I love this shit. I want playoffs now.
Astros with the ill-advised steal attempt with the southpaw on the mound. Oy.
(dying laughing) at the dumbass with the air horn at the Trop. Yeah, I’m sure Mark Fucking Teixeira is really phased by 50 db hundreds of feet away.
So, Sam Fuld has single-handedly caused this close WC race, right?
Adam Dunn struck out again.
[quote name=josh]So, Sam Fuld has single-handedly caused this close WC race, right?[/quote]Actually, I think you could easily argue that his presence as opposed to Desmond Jennings is the only thing that’s prevented them from clinching already. (dying laughing)
[quote name=GBTS]Actually, I think you could easily argue that his presence as opposed to Desmond Jennings is the only thing that’s prevented them from clinching already. (dying laughing)[/quote]
Well, that and Aramis Ramirez
Lavarnway hit his first and second career homers today for the Sox.
[quote name=josh]So, Sam Fuld has single-handedly caused this close WC race, right?[/quote]
Sam Fuld does things triple-handedly.
I’d probably argue that the only reason the Rays even have the slightest chance at this point is ONLY because the Red Sox forgot how to play baseball. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mish]Sam Fuld does things triple-handedly.[/quote](dying laughing)
[quote name=ACT]Lavarnway hit his first and second career homers today for the Sox.[/quote]
He’s rapidly shooting up the list of most misspelled names (dying laughing)
I hate sac bunts almost as much as MO, but I’m pretty sure Brignac’s wOBA is so low that it’s allowable (dying laughing)
Crawford has one of the weirdest pre swing stances I’ve ever seen.
[quote name=josh]Crawford has one of the weirdest pre swing stances I’ve ever seen.[/quote]Youkilis has my favorite.
[quote name=Mish]Sam Fuld does things triple-handedly.[/quote]Hot.
[quote name=ACT]Youkilis has my favorite.[/quote]He looks like he’s doing a gypsy snake charming dance for sure. I don’t even know if gypsies charm snakes.
Astros take the lead back.
[quote name=josh]Crawford has one of the weirdest pre swing stances I’ve ever seen.[/quote]
Craig Counsell disagrees
[quote name=josh]He looks like he’s doing a gypsy snake charming dance for sure. I don’t even know if gypsies charm snakes.[/quote]
we don’t
[quote name=Berselius]Craig Counsell disagrees[/quote]Well, old Craig Counsell, maybe. First Epoch Craig Counsell. I think Counsell’s stance would be easier to swing from than Carl Crawford’s.
One of my jobs in college was at the height of Borat, my boss used to jokingly call us Gypsies in the office when we screwed up. It was fun for a while until he accidentally used it on the phone with a client.
[quote name=ACT]Astros take the lead back.[/quote]
Using “taking” implies too much agency on either team’s part (dying laughing)
Lead falls back into Astros’ lap.
Astros can’t avoid not winning.
Rays ——> WC lead.
TB—-> .5 game WC lead
Andino needs another ITPHR.
C’mon, Sox meltdown!
8-6 now in Baltimore
Who are the Red Sox throwing tomorrow?
[quote name=GBTS]Who are the Red Sox throwing tomorrow?[/quote]Pretty sure its Lester on 3 days rest
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Pretty sure its Lester on 3 days rest[/quote]I believe so. They’ve been trying to acquire someone for the start, but to no avail. In no way getting ahead of myself, but if there is a game 163, it’s either Wakefield or Lackey on short rest.
And Price on full rest tomorrow, yeah? Or is it Moore?
[quote name=GBTS]And Price on full rest tomorrow, yeah? Or is it Moore?[/quote]Moore I think
[quote name=Mish]I believe so. They’ve been trying to acquire someone for the start, but to no avail. In no way getting ahead of myself, but if there is a game 163, it’s either Wakefield or Lackey on short rest.[/quote]
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
I know Moore pitched the last Yankees game, and that was five full days ago. I think Price’s turn in the rotation is next.
Tying run up for the Os.
Bloop and a blast anyone?
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Moore I think[/quote]I think it’s price, with more tentatively saved for a tie breaker game.
Is Papelbon having a Marmol moment?
[quote name=Berselius]Bloop and a blast anyone?[/quote]I hate Harrelson. I hope they walk 2 runs in
Damn Houston bullpen.
Pujols is no longer batting .300 but might have a plate appearance left in this game…
Winning run at the plate
Winning run at the plate.
[quote name=Berselius]Winning run at the plate[/quote][quote name=GBTS]Winning run at the plate.[/quote]Are you sure?
Are you sure?
(dying laughing) Theriot. Of course.
Theriot? Really?
I’m not really sure, could someone confirm- is the winning run at the plate?
Holy fucking shit Wieters is slow.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]I’m not really sure, could someone confirm- is the winning run at the plate?[/quote]
Correct. I have a source.
Winning run —-> at plate.
[quote name=josh]Winning run —-> at plate.[/quote]This is a theme.
[quote name=josh]Winning run —-> at plate.[/quote]Correct.
This is a hell of an AB by Jones.
I think Papelbon realizes strikeout machine Mark Reynolds is up next anyway
Orioles hitters getting somewhere around 10 pitches/PA (dying laughing)
[quote name=Berselius]I think Papelbon realizes strikeout machine Mark Reynolds is up next anyway[/quote]That guy also takes a walk pretty well and hits the ball really hard when it runs into his bat.
Three homers for Fielder tonight
Adam Jones ———> Not clutch
Damn
Well, it was a good AB, anyway.
I can;t really imagine the Braves or the Red Sox winning tomorrow
Game 163!!!!!
Holy crap, Matt already has 6 Ks and has given up 2 runs? That’s crazy.
[quote name=josh]Holy crap, Matt already has 6 Ks and has given up 2 runs? That’s crazy.[/quote]Just 2 Ks…they still count the same against bad offenses (dying laughing)
Come on Pirates!
[quote name=Rice Cube]Just 2 Ks…they still count the same against bad offenses (dying laughing)[/quote]I should have checked that first. For some reason, Gameday awarded a badge for 6 Ks for Garza. Gameday’s just trying to cut Garza some slack, I guess.
Pujols —> back to .300
Aramis —-> home run
It’s starting to look as though the Cards might pull this one off.
[quote name=ACT]It’s starting to look as though the Cards might pull this one off.[/quote]They’re only up by a touchdown, it’s still anyone’s game.
/wrong sport’d
From Colin Wyers:
Boston: 52.7%
Tampa Bay: 47.3%
[quote name=ACT]From Colin Wyers:
Boston: 52.7%
Tampa Bay: 47.3%[/quote]Baltimore should feel insulted.
Yanks are doing a bullpen game tomorrow, and that factors into it.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Baltimore should feel insulted.[/quote]Baltimore should learn to baseball better.
Why is TLR using Edwin Jackson in this spot? Is it his bullpen day? Very interesting.
The Rays also have home field advantage. And, of course, in the MLB, the difference between the best and worst teams isn’t all that great.
That said, there’s a large relative difference between Baltimore and the Yankees, so you have to favor the Sox.
Pujols has perhaps one more game to get his magical 100th RBI. Do Game 163 stats count?
Josh, NOW Garza has six strikeouts.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Pujols has perhaps one more game to get his magical 100th RBI. Do Game 163 stats count?[/quote]
Yes.
Nice season, Mattt. Take a bow.
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/odds/
Ouch, Braves!
[quote name=ACT]Yanks are doing a bullpen game tomorrow, and that factors into it.[/quote]It would be cool if they gave Mo the start.
Oh, and Boston is now below 50% now that the half-game “playoff” is considered.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Josh, NOW Garza has six strikeouts.[/quote]I already won that badge. So do you get to turn in all your Gameday badges for prizes later? I’m picturing something along the lines of Chuck E Cheese.
[quote name=ACT]Oh, and Boston is now below 50% now that the half-game “playoff” is considered.[/quote]So if things go according to rumor, it’s going to be like this every year, even if the 1st and 2nd WC team are 5 games apart in the standings. It seems like they’re just trying to force the issue, trying to add excitement where none necessarily exists. I liked the idea someone had of the 3 game play off that runs into the beginning of the NLCS/ALCS. Let the WC teams at least have a series, let their destiny be in their hands in a slightly more fair way.
Matt Garza coming in to bunt with one out? Ugh!
(dying laughing) @ Quade
Whatever…nice of him to try to get Garza the win.
(dying laughing)
Silly conventional wisdom.
Darwin Barney should be flattered that he’s forced a pitching change that probably didn’t need to be made.
[quote name=Rice Cube](dying laughing) @ Quade
Whatever…nice of him to try to get Garza the win.[/quote]Or, increasing the chances he’ll get a loss by letting him strike out in a big game situation.
Cubs are so much fail. I can’t wait for the playoffs. And then 2012 for more fail.
I may just switch to the AL so I don’t have to endure any more 1-out sacrifices.
I’m also impressed with Tampa Bay for amassing 90 wins in what was supposed to be a rebuilding/stand-pat year.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Pujols has perhaps one more game to get his magical 100th RBI. Do Game 163 stats count?[/quote]Oh indeed.
I remember talk in 98 that Sosa could hit 4 homers and tie McGwire.
More on playoff odds: http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15184
Andrew Cashner sighting.
I wish they’d pinch-run for Aramis here.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Andrew Cashner sighting.
I wish they’d pinch-run for Aramis here.[/quote]Yay!
Stole it on a pitchout (dying laughing)
Late night win from the wife:
http://celebs.icanhascheezburger.com/2011/09/22/funny-celebrity-pictures-community-service/princess-bride-monopoly/
Goodbye #5 pick!
Anyway, now that Garza’s season is officially over…
Great job, Matt. You had a great season, pitched a great game, and established yourself as the staff ace. Your pitching was one of the few bright spots on this Cubs season.
Is it a Fan Graphs article or somewhere else that shows that the MLB draft is NOT a “crap shoot?” Trying to find the link.
Holy hell: the Dodgers scored 5 runs in the top of the 10th, and the D-Backs answered with 6 in the bottom.
The whole rally was done with 2 outs. The final hit was a grand slam. Wow.
http://www.raysindex.com/2011/09/mlb-sources-friedman-to-cubs-becoming-more-likely.html
So Friedman is becoming a more likely candidate, but it’s Phil Rogers reporting it.
[quote name=Mish]http://www.raysindex.com/2011/09/mlb-sources-friedman-to-cubs-becoming-more-likely.html
So Friedman is becoming a more likely candidate, but it’s Phil Rogers reporting it.[/quote]
We need FPm Steve Stone to corroborate this.
[quote name=Berselius]We need FPm Steve Stone to corroborate this.[/quote][quote name=FPM Steve Stone] When I take a look at all the attention that Friedman happens to be getting now, I think the way he has gone about sabermetrics, number one, he didn’t invent it. Number two, he didn’t refine it. And number three, I like my winners to actually have won something[/quote].
[quote name=WaLi].[/quote]It should be noted that FPM Steve Stone has never watched the Rays play and doesn’t know who Friedman is.
[quote name=Mish]http://www.raysindex.com/2011/09/mlb-sources-friedman-to-cubs-becoming-more-likely.html
So Friedman is becoming a more likely candidate, but it’s Phil Rogers reporting it.[/quote]I loved the Robothal column that Theo Epstein was out as a candidate because the Rays had tied the Red Sox and there was no way he’d skip town after that. The only source was a rival GM saying Theo wouldn’t be allowed back in Boston if he left now. He then followed it up with conjecture that the Red Sox might fire him. (dying laughing)
Essentially, you can forget about Epstein being available to the Cubs. Or he might be.
new shit: http://www.obstructedview.net/chicago-cubs/articles/what-kids.html