A month ago I took a look at how the Cubs top prospects (ratings from John Sickels) were doing and the final part was a form for you so we could have our own top prospect list. The final part in this series will be those results. I know you’ve waited on pins and needles for them so you won’t have to wait much longer.
20) Welington Castillo, C, Grade C: Very effective against runners, has some power, but on-base skills are sketchy.
Castillo has only had about 60 plate appearances since we last checked in. I’m not sure if he’s been injured or what. He’s hitting .315/.376/.589 in over 200 PA at AAA this season. He kind of reminds me of Geovany Soto in terms of development.
Below is a list of Soto’s triple slash lines from age 18-24 and what level he was at:
18 Rk .260/339/.387
19 Rk & A-, .273/.335/.416
20 A+, .242/.313/.316
21 AA .271/.357/.342
22 AAA .253/.357/.342
23 AAA .272/.353/.386
24 AAA .353/.424/.642
Here’s what Castillo has done in his career:
19 Rk A- .188/.257/.188 (36 PA)
20 A- .271/.334/.423
21 A+ AA AAA .287/.337/.383
22 AA .232/.275/.386
23 AAA .255/317/.498
24 A+ AAA .301/.367/.522 (42 rehab PA at Daytona)
Soto was about a year ahead of Castillo, but neither catcher had impressive numbers until their age 24 season. Early on it looked as though both catchers would have to field their position excellently to get by at the big league level, but by age 23 for Soto, it appeared as though he had plenty of power to play every day behind the plate. Castillo has clearly shown that AAA is too easy.
I’m not saying that Castillo is going to have as successful a career as Soto has had, but it’s just something that I’ve noticed this season. Both took off at age 24. Soto has still been inconsistent at the big league level with the stick so take the comparison for what it’s worth (not much).
19) Ben Wells, RHP, Grade C: Hasn’t pitched yet, but seventh round pick from Arkansas high school has potential as a hard-throwing starter.
Wells scouting report at the time he was drafted by Baseball America said this about him:
Ben Wells pitched at 84-87 mph most of his amateur career, but by the end of this spring he was throwing 90-94 mph and pitching a five-inning perfect game in the state 7-A championship game. The 6-foot-3, 200-pound righthander has a good feel for pitching, too, as he pounds the strike zone with a three-pitch mix that also includes a hard slider and splitter. He committed to Crowder (Mo.) JC and now is drawing attention from Southeastern Conference schools. Wells has the size and stuff to go in the first five rounds of the draft, though he may not have been scouted extensively enough to go that high.
Wells doesn’t turn 19 for over a month and in 41.2 short-season A ball innings he’s allowed 44 hits, struckout 30 and walked 14. The walk rate is good, but hitters aren’t having any difficulty getting base hits against Wells and he’s having a little trouble striking them out. He’s an extreme groundball pitcher (2.44 GO/AO).
18) Jin-Young Kim, RHP, Grade C+: Will he be worth the big bonus?
Things have gotten worse for Kim since we last checked in. He’s allowed 38 hits in 24.1 short-season A ball innings. He’s allowed 4 home runs, walked 15 and struckout only 16. Only one time this season has he not allowed any runs. In his second appearance he threw 3.2 innings, allowed 5 hits, walked 1 and struckout 2. Not exactly an impressive outing by any means. His best outing other than that one was a 4 inning appearance in which he allowed 7 hits, walked 1 and struckout 2.
17) Austin Kirk, LHP, Grade C+: Breakthrough candidate for 2011.
Kirk is having another solid season though last time we checked in he had gotten roughed up in his three previous starts and that trend has continued. Overall he’s thrown 118 innings at Peoria and allowed only 94 hits, walked just 27 and has struckout 101. He’s not a strikeout pitcher, but his control is excellent. I don’t know how his skills will translate to the next level or levels, but it’s always nice to see a young pitcher in the Cubs organization who throws strikes.
16) Su-Min Jung, RHP, Grade C+: Wasn’t great at Peoria, but I think he can get better faster than people anticipate.
After walking 24 and striking out only 19 in 43.2 innings at Peoria, he was sent back to Boise. It hasn’t gone any better there either. He’s walked 16 batters, struckout only 8 and has allowed 9 runs in 10.2 innings.
15) Brooks Raley, LHP, Grade C+: Was very effective in the second half.
Raley has LOOGY written all over him. Never a strikeout pitcher, Raley has struckout just 54 in 104 innings at AA. He’s walked 37 and allowed 13 home runs. Raley doesn’t strike many out, batters don’t have any trouble getting base hits or home runs and he doesn’t have excellent control, though it’s not bad. At the age of 23, I expect we’ll see Raley moved to Iowa next year and put in the bullpen. It’s hard to imagine there’s a future there as a starter. There may not even be one as a LOOGY.
14) Brett Wallach, RHP, Grade C+: Another one (live arm, needs polish).
The Cubs acquired Wallach when they traded Ted Lilly to the Dodgers last year. Remember when the Cubs had a ton of strikeout pitchers who had a very high ceiling? Yeah, those days are gone. Wallach is yet another starter who doesn’t strike many batters out. He’s struckout 71 in 91 High A innings. He’s walked 34 so his command isn’t bad, but there’s probably not a large enough difference between K% and BB% for him to be a serious candidate for the rotation in the future. He turns 23 in December.
13) Rafael Dolis, RHP, Grade C+: Another guy in the live arm/needs polish brigade.
Converted to closer after 4 AA starts, he hasn’t been that impressive. On the season at AA he’s struckout only 6.6 batters per 9 and walked over 4 per 9. He does keep the ball on the ground and in the ballpark, but his strikeouts will only continue to decline as he moves up the system while his walks go the opposite direction. He’ll turn 24 in January and spend most or all of 2012 in Des Moines.
12) D.J LeMahieu, INF, Grade C+: I think people are a bit too down on him; he could surprise this year.
After breaking out in AA earlier this season, he was called up to Chicago out of necessity. After being sent back to AAA, things have not gone well. in 121 PA he’s hit .278/.306/.330 for the I-Cubs. LeMahieu just turned 23 so he’s another guy who is going to spend most or all of 2012 in AAA. He needs to work at getting on base without requiring a hit to do so.
11) Marquez Smith, 3B, Grade C+: Not young, but ready to help at the major league level and can catch people off-guard.
It seems rare to me that there’s a guy who has consistently hit as well as Smith has who has never gotten a shot at a big league job. It’s not just the Cubs either. He was available in last year’s Rule 5 and no team even took a flyer on him. The consensus seems to be that there’s little Smith can do to make up for whatever deficiency there is that we’re not seeing in the numbers. It’s not defense as he’s known as a good defender. It’s not like he’s a left fielder or 1st baseman. He plays 3rd base and could easily switch to 2nd if needed. Like I said last time, whatever it is that’s holding Smith back is something that we can’t see, but it’s obviously present.
[quote name=mb21]I figure it’s HBO or Showtime. I can’t imagine a network like FX, USA or TNT running it. No chance it’s run on one of the major networks. DirecTV could pick it up like they’ve done with Friday Night Lights and Damages. That’s a distinct possibility.[/quote]
HBO certainly has the bankroll to do it. But I’m kind of surprised that BB would be such an expensive show to run. It has an even smaller cast than Mad Men, no special effects to deal with, they already have all the sets, and ABQ has to be an incredibly cheap place to film (relatively speaking).
Wow, I knew that Soto had finally broken out that last year in AAA but I had forgotten that he had consistently put up solid OBP years before.
B, I believe BB is so expensive in part due to where they film the show. I remember reading that 4 Days Out was ridiculously expensive even though they thought it would be cheap. The number of days they had to film in the desert, the cast and crew taken to these locations costs a bundle.
I don’t really have as much of a problem with K rates for guys who are big time worm-killers
[quote name=mb21]B, I believe BB is so expensive in part due to where they film the show. I remember reading that 4 Days Out was ridiculously expensive even though they thought it would be cheap. The number of days they had to film in the desert, the cast and crew taken to these locations costs a bundle.[/quote]
That’s a good point, mb. But all the stuff in the city has to be fairly cheap.
[quote name=Berselius]Wow, I knew that Soto had finally broken out that last year in AAA but I had forgotten that he had consistently put up solid OBP years before.[/quote]I always thought Soto was one of those guys who was overlooked by the people who rate prospects. For his age and level considering the position, he was putting up some pretty good numbers. A lot of people say Soto is an example of a prospect who comes out of nowhere, but that’s not at all true. If you look at catchers and the ages they are coming up through the system, what Soto did was impressive. What Castillo has done at times is also impressive.
I don’t get what’s up with Smith either. It has to be more than the too old for his level thing that scouts seem to use to dismiss his numbers.
[quote name=mb21]I always thought Soto was one of those guys who was overlooked by the people who rate prospects. For his age and level considering the position, he was putting up some pretty good numbers. A lot of people say Soto is an example of a prospect who comes out of nowhere, but that’s not at all true. If you look at catchers and the ages they are coming up through the system, what Soto did was impressive. What Castillo has done at times is also impressive.[/quote]
To be fair, his power came out of nowhere. Glancing at his numbers I’d guess he profiled as an above-average backup rather than a regular. Backup catchers are a dime a dozen.
[quote name=Berselius]I don’t really have as much of a problem with K rates for guys who are big time worm-killers[/quote]The issue I have is that his K rate will only go down as he moves up the system. By the time he gets to the big leagues we’re talking a well below average strikeout rate. I’ve used Casey Coleman an example when talking about my concerns with Trey McNutt, but it’s relevant here, too. His strikeout rate at the age of 20 in Boise was over 8. It was over 7 the previous year.
I guess what I’m saying is that a strikeout rate of just 7 at Boise is quite concerning. I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if it’s under 5 by the time he gets to AAA if he ever gets there. That’s if his K rate is true talent level, which we don’t really know yet.
[quote name=Berselius]I don’t get what’s up with Smith either. It has to be more than the too old for his level thing that scouts seem to use to dismiss his numbers.[/quote]It has to be. There’s something there that scouts see (all of them apparently) that we can’t. No idea what it is and we’ll probably never know.
FWIW, AzPhil has consistely rated Castillo as one the best Cubs position prospects. If I remember right, I think he’s had him in his top 5 for several years.
[quote name=Berselius]To be fair, his power came out of nowhere. Glancing at his numbers I’d guess he profiled as an above-average backup rather than a regular. Backup catchers are a dime a dozen.[/quote]I’m not sure about that, b. A few years ago I looked back at several catchers and what they did in the minors and it often wasn’t as good as what Soto did. Catchers develop their hitting skill slater than other positions. That was something I thought people regularly dismissed.
I do think his power shot up more than expected, but I don’t think it was that much.
Maybe he’s lazy.
[quote name=AB]FWIW, AzPhil has consistely rated Castillo as one the best Cubs position prospects. If I remember right, I think he’s had him in his top 5 for several years.[/quote]Yeah, Phil has raved about him for a long time. I was disappointed with last season, but he’s bounced back and would be in my top 5 now easily.
Callis said we signed our 9th round pick overlsot last night.
[quote name=mb21]It has to be. There’s something there that scouts see (all of them apparently) that we can’t. No idea what it is and we’ll probably never know.[/quote]
This almost begs for an AC top ten post of things that are wrong with Marquez Smith.
*readies popcorn*
Welington has a bad hamstring. http://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/2011/8/1/2309229/cubs-minor-league-wrap-august-1
I think Flaherty has been playing a lot of 3B for Iowa lately so I’m not sure if Smith has been relegated to the bench or if he’s hurt.
Bubbles doesnt understand hollywood
Maybe it’s selective memory on my part, but from reading through the Baseball America Prospect Handbooks over the last 8 years it seems to me that catchers aren’t thought of as highly as other positions, which seems odd since it’s the most valuable position among position players. it’s kind of like 3rd basemen being cheated in the Hall of Fame.
It might have do to with how catchers require more time off and sustain more injuries than players at other positions.
I found this for 2011 Top 100 prospects:
By Primary Position
32 Righthanded pitchers
17 Lefthanded pitchers
12 Shortstops
10 Outfielders
9 Catchers, third basemen
7 First basemen
4 Second basemen
[quote name=ACT]It might have do to with how catchers require more time off and sustain more injuries than players at other positions.[/quote]That could be part of it, but my selective memory tells me the scouting reports in the BA Handbooks are always harsher for catchers than other positions. Take two equally talented hitters and the one who plays SS will get a glowing review while the catcher won’t be so friendly.
Again, that’s based only on my memory from reading the books so it may be wrong, but it certainly seems that way to me.
Well, as far as prospects go, third and second basemen are really just people who aren’t good enough to play shortstop. And if they have to move down the defensive spectrum, that often means first base, in which case they’d better be able to hit.
[quote name=mb21]That could be part of it, but my selective memory tells me the scouting reports in the BA Handbooks are always harsher for catchers than other positions. Take two equally talented hitters and the one who plays SS will get a glowing review while the catcher won’t be so friendly.
Again, that’s based only on my memory from reading the books so it may be wrong, but it certainly seems that way to me.[/quote]
Probably because of the reduced playing time and anticipation of injury.
[quote name=ACT]Well, as far as prospects go, third and second basemen are really just people who aren’t good enough to play shortstop. And if they have to move down the defensive spectrum, that often means first base, in which case they’d better be able to hit.[/quote]Of course, but the same is true for shortstops in the low minors.
I am almost caught up with breaking bad…
I was stumped the other day what this show reminds me of and then it hit me. Its the shield
[quote name=Rice Cube]This almost begs for an AC top ten post of things that are wrong with Marquez Smith.
*readies popcorn*[/quote]That’s gonna be tough. I can’t think of one. I hope to see him in the big leagues in September.
[quote name=AndCounting]That’s gonna be tough. I can’t think of one.[/quote]
I would be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed.
/sad face
Dishonorable!
Anyway, I’ve said this before, but for all this talk of Soto’s having a bad year, he’s on a 3 WAR/162 game pace. Basically, he’s hitting as well as Castro, while providing much more defensive value.
[quote name=Berselius]Maybe it’s all Mad Men’s fault.[/quote]Maybe were in store for a cable TV Shaq/Kobe style feud.
http://www.avclub.com/articles/breaking-bads-future-at-amc-in-question,59832/
Hey if anyone here is following the NBA lockout, and you come across a link to the NBA’s federal complaint filed today, it’d be super cool if you posted it here. Kthanx.
Fight snark with snark.
Experience was clearly the factor that made Epstein and Friedman great GMs. I hate that fucking cliche.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Fight snark with snark.[/quote]If that’s the real Greg Maddux then hes just setting up Levine with that question now so he won’t expect it when he asks him if hes a faget tomorrow.
[quote name=Mish]Experience was clearly the factor that made Epstein and Friedman great GMs. I hate that fucking cliche.[/quote]
FWIW, I think Levine is talking business experience in general.
This was surprising to me, especially during that Astros series (Cubs sweep!) between two crappy teams. I have heard that there were larger non-Cubs fan proportions in the crowds and the weather has gotten better, but you can still see plenty of empty seats on TV broadcasts. Scalpers also have stacks of tickets in their hands outside the Red Line station.
[quote name=Berselius]FWIW, I think Levine is talking business experience in general.[/quote]
[quote name=Berselius]FWIW, I think Levine is talking business experience in general.[/quote]
This is probably true, but you gotta start somewhere.
I think Maddux said he wasn’t interested in being a GM but I have a feeling he’d be okay at it if the Cubs gave him the job.
Justin Duchscherer got dropped by the O’s.
Doesn’t seem like that long ago when he was a hot commodity.
http://mlb.sbnation.com/2011/8/2/2310916/mlb-power-rankings-august-1-trade-deadline
Colby Rasmus is a Gremlin!
.
[quote name=Rice Cube].[/quote]Then he put on his mayonnaise hat and danced around with his garden gnomes on magical island while singing “Froofy-froofy-froofy All Day.” And people think this team doesn’t make any sense!
(dying laughing)
Eli Wallach >>>> Brett Wallach
[quote name=uncle dave]Eli Wallach >>>> Brett Wallach[/quote]The Ugly?
[quote name=josh]The Ugly?[/quote]I just thought he was a shitty pitcher.
[quote name=uncle dave]Eli Wallach >>>> Brett Wallach[/quote]
Speaking of awesome 1960s actors, PBS had a Steve McQueen special on the other day.
McQueen was one of Chuck Norris’ first private karate students.
[quote name=AB]Speaking of awesome 1960s actors, PBS had a Steve McQueen special on the other day.
McQueen was one of Chuck Norris’ first private karate students.[/quote]I think you mean one of Bruce Lee’s first private students.
[quote name=Muckey]I think you mean one of Bruce Lee’s first private students.[/quote]Yeah, Steve McQueen was like a pallbearer at Bruce Lee’s funeral.
Apparently Tim Wallach, former pitcher, used to go by Eli Wallach in homage to the actor (The Ugly).
/CSB
[quote name=AB]Chuck Norris[/quote]Speaking of pussy, ol’ Steve musta got it all. He fucked Faye Dunaway, and he fucked Ali McGraw…
[quote name=Rice Cube]http://mlb.sbnation.com/2011/8/2/2310916/mlb-power-rankings-august-1-trade-deadline
Colby Rasmus is a Mogwai![/quote]Come on, RC, you’re better than that.
.
[quote name=GBTS]Come on, RC, you’re better than that.[/quote]But aren’t mogwais just gremlin larvae?
[quote name=GBTS]Come on, RC, you’re better than that.[/quote]
Sorry, I should’ve Asian’d it up.
[quote name=josh]But aren’t mogwais just gremlin larvae?[/quote]
They’re pre-mutated gremlins so I think you are technically correct.
^^^(dying laughing) (dying laughing) (dying laughing)
Castro SS, Barney 2B, Ramirez 3B, Peña 1B, Byrd CF, Soto C, Soriano LF, Colvin RF, Wells P
Never cared for the Castro/Barney 1-2-punch at the top of the order, but whatever. It’s nice to have Ramirez back, at least.
[quote name=josh]Yeah, Steve McQueen was like a pallbearer at Bruce Lee’s funeral.[/quote]
huh…they didn’t mention that, but this was one of those American Classic series that was made in the early 80s ; they had one about Gregory Peck on last week when he was still alive.
[quote name=josh]But aren’t mogwais just gremlin larvae?[/quote]Mogwai don’t necessarily become gremlins, though, correct?
[quote name=GBTS]Mogwai don’t necessarily become gremlins, though, correct?[/quote]
You must feed them after midnight before they mutate.
Mogwai are like bread: If you don’t treat them right, they change…for good.
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpl5mOAXNl4[/quote]http://www.thestranger.com/seattle/grab-bag/Content?oid=3307
[quote name=Rice Cube]You must feed them after midnight before they mutate.[/quote]It seems like a sketchy rule to me. Is it midnight local time? What time is NOT after midnight? When does the window close? Seems like its inevitable.
[quote name=josh]It seems like a sketchy rule to me. Is it midnight local time? What time is NOT after midnight? When does the window close? Seems like its inevitable.[/quote]
Midnight in whatever time zone they’re in. They’re allowed to start eating again ONLY after one other resident of their current living quarters has completed his breakfast.
[quote name=Dr. Aneus Taint]Midnight in whatever time zone they’re in. They’re allowed to start eating again ONLY after one other resident of their current living quarters has completed his breakfast.[/quote]
What if breakfast starts at 12:01 AM?
Interesting article about Billy Beane and the quandary the A’s find themselves in…
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/tom_verducci/08/02/billy.beane.moneyball/index.html?sct=mlb_t11_a1
One wonders if Billy Beane would be a good Cubs GM for the rebuild that isn’t happening.
Joe Pos with another excerpt on the unwritten rules of baseball:
http://joeposnanski.si.com/2011/08/01/the-new-code-of-baseball/
[quote name=Rice Cube]What if breakfast starts at 12:01 AM?[/quote]It’s just a matter of time. No one’s 100% disciplined. Gizmo has given it his all, there’s no doubt. But eventually, every mogwai succumbs to gremlinhood.
[quote name=josh]It’s just a matter of time. No one’s 100% disciplined. Gizmo has given it his all, there’s no doubt. But eventually, every mogwai succumbs to gremlinhood.[/quote]
I think it might actually be a period between midnight local time and dawn that the mogwai is not allowed to eat. Maybe we should peruse Wikipedia and see what they say (dying laughing)
[quote name=Rice Cube]Joe Pos with another excerpt on the unwritten rules of baseball:
http://joeposnanski.si.com/2011/08/01/the-new-code-of-baseball//quote
Wow, they suspended Weaver for six games!
That was a bullshit move by Carlos Guillen.
Guillen did what he did because Weaver was acting like a prick all game. I don’t blame Guillen one bit. Great way to show up a pitcher who has been yapping all game.
As for the 6 game suspension, he did throw a fastball right at some dude’s head.
[quote name=mb21]Guillen did what he did because Weaver was acting like a prick all game. I don’t blame Guillen one bit. Great way to show up a pitcher who has been yapping all game.
As for the 6 game suspension, he did throw a fastball right at some dude’s head.[/quote]
I think the latter point you make I agree with, I didn’t think he’d get that many games but maybe I’m just too lenient. Joe Pos was contesting your first point though, and I’m not sure I agree with Joe there because Weaver was in prick mode and deserved to be showed up.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I think the latter point you make I agree with, I didn’t think he’d get that many games but maybe I’m just too lenient. Joe Pos was contesting your first point though, and I’m not sure I agree with Joe there because Weaver was in prick mode and deserved to be showed up.[/quote]
But, as Joe pointed out, the homerun was supposed to be the way to show the pitcher up. Someone in the comments said that Guillen was acting out of character and thought he was doing that to show Weaver what hot-dogging looked like, as opposed to Magglio’s watching the ball and slowly leaving the batters box that Weaver had earlier taken offense to.
I don’t know what Guillen’s true motivations were, but if that was the case, then I’m not as irritated by what he did. They all need to fucking grow up though.
At least Guillen stayed off Weaver’s mound.
Edit: just re-read that and realized how dirty it sounded.
[quote name=Aisle424]But, as Joe pointed out, the homerun was supposed to be the way to show the pitcher up. Someone in the comments said that Guillen was acting out of character and thought he was doing that to show Weaver what hot-dogging looked like, as opposed to Magglio’s watching the ball and slowly leaving the batters box that Weaver had earlier taken offense to.
I don’t know what Guillen’s true motivations were, but if that was the case, then I’m not as irritated by what he did. They all need to fucking grow up though.[/quote]I don’t take offense to what batters do because pitchers, especially closers, are out there pumping their fists and showing up hitters all the time. Plus, I think it’s cool. I love what Bryce Harper did. If it’s good enough for football or basketball, why isn’t it good enough for baseball? Tango pointed out the other day that really the issue is American baseball and not baseball in general.
[quote name=mb21]I don’t take offense to what batters do because pitchers, especially closers, are out there pumping their fists and showing up hitters all the time. Plus, I think it’s cool. I love what Bryce Harper did. If it’s good enough for football or basketball, why isn’t it good enough for baseball? Tango pointed out the other day that really the issue is American baseball and not baseball in general.[/quote]Fair point.
Really, isn’t running the bases after you hit one kind of a showoff? They could easily make the rule say you don’t have to. The only problem there is ambiguous homeruns, but if they have the technology to know when a puck goes into a tiny little net, then they have the technology to determine homeruns instantly.
In my indoor baseball game that I just made up, homeruns would be automatic and a celebration encouraged.
[quote name=Rice Cube].[/quote]
(dying laughing)
These prospect reviews are pretty disheartening.
That said, I may spontaneously combust if the Cubs re-sign Koyie again and further retard Castillo’s development.
[quote name=josh]Fair point.
Really, isn’t running the bases after you hit one kind of a showoff? They could easily make the rule say you don’t have to. The only problem there is ambiguous homeruns, but if they have the technology to know when a puck goes into a tiny little net, then they have the technology to determine homeruns instantly.
In my indoor baseball game that I just made up, homeruns would be automatic and a celebration encouraged.[/quote]In college after a batter hits a home run the entire team comes out onto the field to congratulate him. MLB pitchers are pussies when it comes to this stuff.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I think the latter point you make I agree with, I didn’t think he’d get that many games but maybe I’m just too lenient.[/quote]
The other thing to remember is that MLB always gives longer suspensions to starting pitchers. If they had given him a 3 game suspension, he may not even miss a start.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]These prospect reviews are pretty disheartening.
That said, I may spontaneously combust if the Cubs re-sign Koyie again and further retard Castillo’s development.[/quote]I think only 3 of these 10 have had good seasons while the other 7 have been less than impressive. I don’t think the top 10 is going to be any more encouraging. We’ll see the rankings change more than I can remember since I’ve been paying attention to this stuff.
[quote name=Xoomwaffle]The other thing to remember is that MLB always gives longer suspensions to starting pitchers. If they had given him a 3 game suspension, he may not even miss a start.[/quote]Yeah, a suspension for a starter is an automatic 5-game suspension. Relievers are usually 3 games. Even with the 5-game suspension, Weaver isn’t really going to miss a start. He’ll just be pushed back a couple days.
[quote name=Xoomwaffle]The other thing to remember is that MLB always gives longer suspensions to starting pitchers. If they had given him a 3 game suspension, he may not even miss a start.[/quote]I think this generally because a HR celebration has never injured anyone (Morales aside), versus the potential damage caused by a fastball to the face.
My take is that Weaver is an asshole for running his gob, Guillen is an asshole for being unable to handle himself like a grown man, and Magglio Ordonez is an asshole for keeping that disgusting haircut for as long as he did.
I think instead of suspending a pitcher who intentionally throws at someone, MLB should just make them stand in front of a Jugz Machine and take one right off the sternum.
I like that idea, MO.
I’m obviously in the minority. I liked what Guillen did. I wish more players did it. I’d love to see Aramis Ramirez connect on a home run off Roy Halladay and do that. It would be the highlight of this season.
[quote name=mb21]I like that idea, MO.
I’m obviously in the minority. I liked what Guillen did. I wish more players did it. I’d love to see Aramis Ramirez connect on a home run off Roy Halladay and do that. It would be the highlight of this season.[/quote]I think the whole thing speaks to the general level of immaturity in most MLB clubhouses. Guillen is supposed to be a vet and a steady hand. At least Weaver can plead youthful ignorance. Both guys behaved like petulant twats. I’m shocked Guillen wasn’t suspended, too, as MLB has normally been tough on people who incite incidents. The funny thing is, I bet if there had been a fight, Guillen would have gotten at least 2 games.
[quote name=mb21]I like that idea, MO.
I’m obviously in the minority. I liked what Guillen did. I wish more players did it. I’d love to see Aramis Ramirez connect on a home run off Roy Halladay and do that. It would be the highlight of this season.[/quote]
I have no problem with what Guillen did either. Though I’ll qualify that with the fact that Weaver was being a dick that day. In a generic situation it bother’s me, but still not that much. Weaver throwing at the next guy was definitely uncalled for.
The only reasons I would be okay with throwing at someone would be if
1) They were being an asshat to the pitcher without other provocation, or
2) A situation like the Holliday slide earlier this week, even if you think it was a clean play.
Throw at the torso, not the head
[quote name=Berselius]I have no problem with what Guillen did either. Though I’ll qualify that with the fact that Weaver was being a dick that day. In a generic situation it bother’s me, but still not that much. Weaver throwing at the next guy was definitely uncalled for.
The only reasons I would be okay with throwing at someone would be if
1) They were being an asshat to the pitcher without other provocation, or
2) A situation like the Holliday slide earlier this week, even if you think it was a clean play.
Throw at the torso, not the head[/quote]If you’re gonna throw, throw at the butt. It hurts like hell, sends a clear message, and doesn’t injure. But I’d just rather players not be thrown at, period.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]If you’re gonna throw, throw at the butt. It hurts like hell, sends a clear message, and doesn’t injure. But I’d just rather players not be thrown at, period.[/quote]
I agree. Beat them on the scoreboard where it matters.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I agree. Beat them on the scoreboard where it matters.[/quote]Yep. Throwing at someone accomplishes nothing. It’s not going to stop Holliday from barreling into 2B. It’s not going to make Castro feel better. And more than likely, it’s going to encourage more thuggery from LaRussa. I think that’s why it’s not uncommon to see a manager (LaRussa excepted) be contrite about these things after they happen. It’s done in the ehat of the moment, but when the tempers calm, I think any manager who isn’t morally bankrupt (read: Tony LaRussa) quickly realizes that all the throwing at people accomplished was to put every player he sent to plate afterwards, directly in harm’s way.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Magglio Ordonez is an asshole for keeping that disgusting haircut for as long as he did.[/quote]Sez the soccer fan.
I’m totally okay with hot dogging and showing some personality and “immaturity”; I am not okay with throwing at people.
[quote name=uncle dave]Sez the soccer fan.[/quote]Oh, man, does footy have some awful haircuts, with Djibril Cissé leading the line.
[quote name=Mish]I’m totally okay with hot dogging and showing some personality and “immaturity”; I am not okay with throwing at people.[/quote]
I’d qualify this in the way that were I a player, I probably wouldn’t celebrate, nor is it something I necessarily find admirable, but I’m okay with the array of major league players exhibiting the array of human emotions, personalities and flaws. No need for some monolithic standard to hold each player to.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I think the whole thing speaks to the general level of immaturity in most MLB clubhouses. Guillen is supposed to be a vet and a steady hand. At least Weaver can plead youthful ignorance. Both guys behaved like petulant twats. I’m shocked Guillen wasn’t suspended, too, as MLB has normally been tough on people who incite incidents. The funny thing is, I bet if there had been a fight, Guillen would have gotten at least 2 games.[/quote]The same stuff goes on in the NBA and NFL. I think sports players are generally immature. I’d prefer they behave in a mature manner away from the field, but on the field it’s not a big deal to me. I figure it’s entertainment and I’m entertained when someone does that. I’m entertained by Jose Valverde, or was entertained by him anyway. Not sure if he still does the same nonsense that he used to do, but I enjoyed that. I loved Dennis Eckersley doing his impression of The Hulk as he stared right into the Braves dugout after the Cardinals took a 3-2 game lead in the series. Then I loved that the Braves embarrassed the Cardinals the next 2 games to reach the World Series.
I loved Sammy’s hop. I love the way Soriano acts when he knows it’s gone.
(dying laughing), apparently Guillen took 29 seconds to round the bases.
[quote name=Mish]I’d qualify this in the way that were I a player, I probably wouldn’t celebrate, nor is it something I necessarily find admirable, but I’m okay with the array of major league players exhibiting the array of human emotions, personalities and flaws. No need for some monolithic standard to hold each player to.[/quote]I agree, to an extent. Guillen’s exhibition was a bit much.
[quote name=mb21]The same stuff goes on in the NBA and NFL. I think sports players are generally immature. I’d prefer they behave in a mature manner away from the field, but on the field it’s not a big deal to me. I figure it’s entertainment and I’m entertained when someone does that. I’m entertained by Jose Valverde, or was entertained by him anyway. Not sure if he still does the same nonsense that he used to do, but I enjoyed that. I loved Dennis Eckersley doing his impression of The Hulk as he stared right into the Braves dugout after the Cardinals took a 3-2 game lead in the series. Then I loved that the Braves embarrassed the Cardinals the next 2 games to reach the World Series.
I loved Sammy’s hop. I love the way Soriano acts when he knows it’s gone.[/quote]There’s nothing that irritates me more in sports than a NFL’er celebrating a routine tackle. (dying laughing) But your point is well taken.
[quote name=mb21] I love the way Soriano acts when he knows it’s gone.[/quote]
He’s in that exaggerated crouch position at the plate, but when he gets full extension and really drives the ball, his whole body just easily and fluidly goes erect (dying laughing) and begings his trot around the bases. I agree, I enjoy it.
Why would you throw at him if you think it’s a clean play?
With as much emotion as these guys have and display on almost every play, we have to expect and, in my opinion, appreciate it when someone shows that emotion.
One of the reasons I’ve liked Zambrano for so long is that he wears his emotions on his sleeve.
[quote name=mb21] I love the way Soriano acts when he knows it’s gone.[/quote]Does he thank Jesus? The run doesn’t count if he doesn’t point at the sky, or perhaps pray the rosary between second and third.
[quote name=Mish]He’s in that exaggerated crouch position at the plate, but when he gets full extension and really drives the ball, his whole body just easily and fluidly goes erect (dying laughing) and begings his trot around the bases. I agree, I enjoy it.[/quote]I love the little pause he has before he drops the bat over his shoulder and begins to run.
kosuke’s bat flip was another one I really liked. I also liked how Sandberg hit it and put his head down and ran. And I liked that Shawon Dunston ran every ball out regardless of whether or not he had a chance to be safe. I think there’s a place in baseball for both types of players.
[quote name=uncle dave]Does he thank Jesus? The run doesn’t count if he doesn’t point at the sky, or perhaps pray the rosary between second and third.[/quote]He probably should thank Jesus because he doesn’t have too many left. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder](dying laughing), apparently Guillen took 29 seconds to round the bases.[/quote]That’s another thing I really like. You just hit the ball out of the ballpark. If I did it, I’d walk my way around the bases. While trying to give fist bumps to the opposing players. And blowing them kisses.
And then the next time I stepped into the box I’d be looking for that face high fastball. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mish]I’d qualify this in the way that were I a player, I probably wouldn’t celebrate, nor is it something I necessarily find admirable, but I’m okay with the array of major league players exhibiting the array of human emotions, personalities and flaws. No need for some monolithic standard to hold each player to.[/quote]My guess is that most baseball players would behave that way if it was more acceptable. Maybe not to the extent they do in football, but a lot more than they currently do in baseball.
[quote name=mb21]With as much emotion as these guys have and display on almost every play, we have to expect and, in my opinion, appreciate it when someone shows that emotion.
One of the reasons I’ve liked Zambrano for so long is that he wears his emotions on his sleeve.[/quote]Yeah, I don’t disagree. I just think Guillen was just a bit over the top, and in a way that caused one of his teammates, not him, to get a pitch tossed at his head. But I don’t expect these guys to be robots. I just think there’s showing emotion and then there’s being asswipe. Imagine a Venn diagram. Guillen’s for sure in the overlapping area, leaning a very close to the predicate circle. (dying laughing)
It seems the Cubs have scored first.
I don’t disagree that on a typical day that Guillen was out of line, but on that day the prick on the mound deserved it. Even if Weaver had been the most behaved person on Earth, I wouldn’t mind it that much. I laughed.
I laughed at Bryce Harper blowing that pitcher a kiss. I thought that was awesome.
so Castro is just about at the number of AB’s he had last year. His standard line almost a carbon copy of last year. So a full year in the game and he has made no adjustments. The cubs coaching staff should be fired for that alone.
(dying laughing) @ Wells. Geez.
Castro had a 94 wRC+ last year and a 101 wRC+ this year. It’s better than I thought it would be for what it’s worth. I expected him to be at 94 again, but a lower BABIP.
If you fire a coaching staff because one player does’t make adjustments you’ll be without any coaches.
Castro is better this year on offense. The defensive numbers are worse, but I’m not sure he’s actually been a worse fielder this year. He’s a bad fielder no matter how you look at it so it does’t much matter.
My hope was that he’d be about the same offensively with the expected regression to his BABIP, which would have meant he was better. Instead, he has the same BABIP and has been better. I also hoped he’s show improvement defensively, but I don’t see that happening at this point.
whats improving his wRC so much? His line is almost identical
he has walked less, has around the same number of XBH. The only thing the I can see is that he is better at stealing bases
[quote name=dylanj]whats improving his wRC so much? His line is almost identical[/quote]
league average has gone down.
Colvin hit one over the river. On the rare occasions, he makes contact, it can go a long way.
I see the Cubs no longer want the #1 pick.
Kaplan the Orange was on CTL guaranteeing that Sori is done as a Cub at season’s end. He never said how it will happen, trade or release just that it will. Someone inside the org must be telling him this.
[quote name=dylanj]whats improving his wRC so much? His line is almost identical[/quote]League average wOBA last year was .325. It’s .320 this year.
[quote name=Aisle424]Colvin hit one over the river. On the rare occasions, he makes contact, it can go a long way.[/quote]Colvin has tremendous power. it’s too bad he can’t do much else.
[quote name=melissa]Kaplan the Orange was on CTL guaranteeing that Sori is done as a Cub at season’s end. He never said how it will happen, trade or release just that it will. Someone inside the org must be telling him this.[/quote]
Maybe he’s going to call in a hit.
[quote name=melissa]Kaplan the Orange was on CTL guaranteeing that Sori is done as a Cub at season’s end. He never said how it will happen, trade or release just that it will. Someone inside the org must be telling him this.[/quote]I won’t complain.
[quote name=dylanj]he has walked less, has around the same number of XBH. The only thing the I can see is that he is better at stealing bases[/quote]Most of his numbers are about the same, but the league as a whole is hitting worse this year so the fact he’s still hitting the same as he did last year means his numbers have improved. Imagine if the league average wOBA was .500 last year. He would have sucked. No imagine it was .200 this year. He’d be a superstar.
The average hitter has gotten worse, but Castro has improved relative to them.
Home run derby
Chicks dig the long ball.
[quote name=mb21]I won’t complain.[/quote]
Nor will I. I just wonder if they are actually willing to eat the money. It wouldn’t be like Ricketts to do that based on the Milton Bradley situation.
It’s everybody hits a homer night for the Cubs.
[quote name=melissa]Nor will I. I just wonder if they are actually willing to eat the money. It wouldn’t be like Ricketts to do that based on the Milton Bradley situation.[/quote]Unlike that year, the Cubs have a lot of money coming off the books. Over the last 3 offseasons the Cubs have had to be creative. They won’t have to be so creative this one. They’ve got money.
My guess is they trade him to some AL team and send along 90% or more of the money. Soriano is probably worth a few million dollars, but not more than that.
pirates = regression
I look away for five minutes to eat supper and the Cubs scored a half dozen. Damn.
ACtually, I heard the Ramirez homerun, so I only missed the last three.
[quote name=melissa]Kaplan the Orange was on CTL guaranteeing that Sori is done as a Cub at season’s end. He never said how it will happen, trade or release just that it will. Someone inside the org must be telling him this.[/quote]I listened to two seasons of Kaplan telling me Z was done, Girardi was the coach for this year, etc, etc, etc before I realized he was full of shit. I assume you mean Dave Kaplan.
[quote name=mb21]My guess is they trade him to some AL team and send along 90% or more of the money. Soriano is probably worth a few million dollars, but not more than that.[/quote]
That seems like a pretty good guess unless his NTC gets in the way. If they plan on trading him it might make sense for them to stop leaking info to local media hacks.
[quote name=josh]I listened to two seasons of Kaplan telling me Z was done, Girardi was the coach for this year, etc, etc, etc before I realized he was full of shit. I assume you mean Dave Kaplan.[/quote]
It was Dave Kaplan, not any other Kaplans in the local media that I know of. It wasn’t his opinion of Sori or what he thinks will happen. I’ve listened to enough of his nonsense to know the difference between his opinion and what the Cubs are telling him. Believe what you would like. As MB said they are in a better position this off-season to eat his salary so it’s not hard to believe.
[quote name=melissa]That seems like a pretty good guess unless his NTC gets in the way. If they plan on trading him it might make sense for them to stop leaking info to local media hacks.[/quote]Pictured: David Kaplan’s source.
[quote name=dylanj]pirates = regression[/quote]I give them about a 2% chance of making the playoffs.
You kn[quote name=melissa]It was Dave Kaplan, not any other Kaplans in the local media that I know of. It wasn’t his opinion of Sori or what he thinks will happen. I’ve listened to enough of his nonsense to know the difference between his opinion and what the Cubs are telling him. Believe what you would like. As MB said they are in a better position this off-season to eat his salary so it’s not hard to believe.[/quote]He was absolutely convinced that Zambrano was gone after the outburst last year. He is close, personal friends with Joe Girardi and thus knew that Joe wanted to be manager. I’m not saying you’re lying, I’m just saying Dave is full of shit.
I meant Dave as opposed to Ari or someone actually in the organization saying that.
(dying laughing). Kap’s source is inscrotumable.
[quote name=josh]You kn
He was absolutely convinced that Zambrano was gone after the outburst last year. He is close, personal friends with Joe Girardi and thus knew that Joe wanted to be manager. I’m not saying you’re lying, I’m just saying Dave is full of shit.
I meant Dave as opposed to Ari or someone actually in the organization saying that.[/quote]Or a blogger or something. I don’t know all the sources out there.
The Cubs need to stop running up the scoreboard here.
Welcome back to earth Pirates. I was rooting for you.
[quote name=ACT]The Cubs need to stop running up the scoreboard here.[/quote]I assume Quade does not approve of the Cubs running up the score.
Holy crap. The vaunted Pirates pitching experiences large amount of variance.
If Colvin plays better defense with consistent opportunities and hits 30+ HRs a season, How is he that much different than Pena? I know, walks…. but good defense in center or right plus power could give him value. Guitierrez is sub-.200 but with good defense.
http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/cubs/post/_/id/5771/catching-surplus-could-fuel-cubs-deal
Levine seems to imply the Cubs are shopping Soto. That would have been a good idea, you know, before the trade deadline when he had to pass thru NL waivers before he could even be eligible to be shopped to the AL. There’s no way an arb eligible catcher makes it through waivers. I assume this is more for the offseason.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Welcome back to earth Pirates. I was rooting for you.[/quote]
No better way to derail a bandwagon than to have Cubs fans jump aboard. (dying laughing)
[quote name=josh]Holy crap. The vaunted Pirates pitching experiences large amount of variance.
If Colvin plays better defense with consistent opportunities and hits 30+ HRs a season, How is he that much different than Pena? I know, walks…. but good defense in center or right plus power could give him value. Guitierrez is sub-.200 but with good defense.[/quote]
walks. Pena gets on base 36% of the time, Colvin doesnt get on 25% of the time. Thats alot of outs.
[quote name=melissa]No better way to derail a bandwagon than to have Cubs fans jump aboard. (dying laughing)[/quote]
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
sho nuff
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]walks. Pena gets on base 36% of the time, Colvin doesnt get on 25% of the time. Thats alot of outs.[/quote]There’s gotta be a way to salvage that guy.
[quote name=josh]There’s gotta be a way to salvage that guy.[/quote]
The Nippon Ham Fighters are on line 2
[quote name=josh]There’s gotta be a way to salvage that guy.[/quote]Bullpen test.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Pictured: David Kaplan’s source.
[/quote]Is that Yellon?
[quote name=mb21]Why would you throw at him if you think it’s a clean play?[/quote][quote name=mb21]That’s another thing I really like. You just hit the ball out of the ballpark. If I did it, I’d walk my way around the bases. While trying to give fist bumps to the opposing players. And blowing them kisses.[/quote][quote name=mb21]And then the next time I stepped into the box I’d be looking for that face high fastball. (dying laughing)[/quote]
This is pretty much my point. Just because a play is legal doesn’t make it right. It’s just like free speech. You’re more than welcome to walk down the street ranting about how (insert ethnic group here) is destroying America, but don’t be surprised when someone punches you in the face. The same goes for Cobra Kai-ing the other team’s 21 year old SS, or tackling their star catcher (Buster Posey).
[quote name=melissa]Kaplan the Orange was on CTL guaranteeing that Sori is done as a Cub at season’s end. He never said how it will happen, trade or release just that it will. Someone inside the org must be telling him this.[/quote]
I could see it happening, but even if it does Kaplan is full of shit. His job is to stir this shit up, and half of what he says is always laced with a heavy dose of “If I was the GM”.
[quote name=Berselius]I could see it happening, but even if it does Kaplan is full of shit. His job is to stir this shit up, and half of what he says is always laced with a heavy dose of “If I was the GM”.[/quote]
I know he is full of shit but I actually heard how he phrased it. He wasn’t saying what he would do or what he thinks they should do. Someone in the org is telling him game 162 is Sori’s last as a Cub. I don’t know if it will happen but I find it interesting that they are leaking it.
This looks like a good game to bring in Grabow or Ortiz.
[quote name=melissa]I know he is full of shit but I actually heard how he phrased it. He wasn’t saying what he would do or what he thinks they should do. Someone in the org is telling him game 162 is Sori’s last as a Cub. I don’t know if it will happen but I find it interesting that they are leaking it.[/quote]
If that’s the case, they might as well release him Sep 1. Or now.
BJax having himself a nice little game tonight.
I’m glad Colvin had a decent game tonight. I’m still annoyed that he wears Sosa’s number though. It’s more annoying than them giving Lou’s number 41 to Tony Campana.
/irrational hate
[quote name=Rice Cube]BJax having himself a nice little game tonight.[/quote]Of course, it wouldn’t be a BJax game if he didn’t strike out at least once.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I’m glad Colvin had a decent game tonight. I’m still annoyed that he wears Sosa’s number though. It’s more annoying than them giving Lou’s number 41 to Tony Campana.
/irrational hate[/quote]I saw Lou during a Mariners game on MLB.TV, and he looked way thinner and healthier than when he was manager.
I thought it was cool that they let Lou wear his numbered Cubs jersey in that Pepsi commercial.
Schumaker has fucked up a DP for the 2nd night in a row. In ~5 games of watching, STL defense is really hurting them
[quote name=Rice Cube]I thought it was cool that they let Lou wear his numbered Cubs jersey in that Pepsi commercial.[/quote]
And here I thought it was Tony Campana all along (dying laughing)
[quote name=Berselius]And here I thought it was Tony Campana all along (dying laughing)[/quote]
Too slow.
Late comeback for the Pirates!
Batting practice time!
This looks like a good night for Tony Campana’s first career HR.
If Ortiz can hang in until the end of the game, he’ll get a 3-inning save.
[quote name=ACT]This looks like a good night for Tony Campana’s first career HR.[/quote]
Won’t happen unless they bat around. Campana blew his best shot with an infield hit, then just l-ollygagged to first instead of hitting the warp drive to try for the inside-the-parker.
Tony’s first professional HR will probably be on a high pop fly lost in the sun or wind.
Yuni Betancourt with a 3 run bomb to give the Brewers the lead (dying laughing)
Hanrahan? Is he really that desperate to get work?
Yuni just got a curtain call in MIL, if you can believe it
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate]Yuni Betancourt with a 3 run bomb to give the Brewers the lead (dying laughing)[/quote]
Suck on that, statfags!
[quote name=ACT]Hanrahan? Is he really that desperate to get work?[/quote]
From what I saw on the twitters, the Pirates had a bunch of extra inning games last week in which he did not appear (dying laughing)
Colvin a triple away from the cycle.
[quote name=Berselius]From what I saw on the twitters, the Pirates had a bunch of extra inning games last week in which he did not appear (dying laughing)[/quote]
It wasn’t a save situation.
/conventional wisdom
No save situation now that Ortiz is out (dying laughing)
[quote name=Rice Cube]No save situation now that Ortiz is out (dying laughing)[/quote]Just wait until Grabow almost blows it and Marmol has to come in.
[quote name=ACT]Just wait until Grabow almost blows it and Marmol has to come in.[/quote]
Cool call, sir.
Castro with 2 straight 3-hit, 2-strikeout games.
Wow, apparently the Reds and Jays were talking about a deal that would have swapped Votto for Joey Bats.
Why?
RC or someone probably posted this from Levine’s chat earlier, but apparently the Pirates were asking after Geo in trade talks.
[quote name=ACT]Why?[/quote]
My guess is because the Reds still have Yonder Alonso, though he’s not as big of a prospect as he used to be.
[quote name=Berselius]RC or someone probably posted this from Levine’s chat earlier, but apparently the Pirates were asking after Geo in trade talks.[/quote]
They should deal with the Giants instead.
/second homer’d
Isn’t Votto Canadian? That would be kinda cool
[quote name=Berselius]This is pretty much my point. Just because a play is legal doesn’t make it right. It’s just like free speech. You’re more than welcome to walk down the street ranting about how (insert ethnic group here) is destroying America, but don’t be surprised when someone punches you in the face. The same goes for Cobra Kai-ing the other team’s 21 year old SS, or tackling their star catcher (Buster Posey).[/quote]There’s a difference between showing up the other team in the fashion I mentioned and a clean play. I said it at the time, Holliday’s play was clean. There was nothing dirty about it. That Castro was taken out, that was the entire point of the slide and the point of all slides like it. Not all players are going to blow kisses to the other team after they hit home runs, but they teach baserunners to take out the SS or 2B on a double play ball. There’s a difference between retaliating on something that is taught and done by all MLB players and retaliating against someone showing up the opponent. That’s not taught. It’s not standard. Taking the fielder out is.
All the players try to take out the fielder on plays like that. There’s going to be a lot of retaliating going on if we determine it’s acceptable to do so after such plays. I was glad the Cubs didn’t do anything stupid after that. It only ensures that EVERY team is going to be watching the Cubs more closely on plays like that and it’s inevitable it would lead to Cubs batters being hit.
[quote name=josh]I saw Lou during a Mariners game on MLB.TV, and he looked way thinner and healthier than when he was manager.[/quote]
Maybe he’s still not eating dinners in shame for becoming such a shitty manager when the Cubs needed him most.
I am as down on Colvin as anyone, but the Cubs really need him to come good. Cheap talent is this team’s only hope.
No way would Votto or Bautista clear waivers.
[quote name=Aisle424]Maybe he’s still not eating dinners in shame for becoming such a shitty manager when the Cubs needed him most.[/quote]I assume he hasn’t eaten dinner since he retired.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Obi-Wan Kenobi is this team’s only hope.[/quote]
/Force’d
[quote name=mb21]No way would Votto or Bautista clear waivers.[/quote]
I think it was rumored to have been discussed before the trade deadline. Texas scores 3 in the 9th to tie.
Why would the Reds make that trade?
[quote name=Berselius]RC or someone probably posted this from Levine’s chat earlier, but apparently the Pirates were asking after Geo in trade talks.[/quote]Cubs roster:
[quote name=mb21]Why would the Reds make that trade?[/quote]THIS.
John Grabow – no lead is safe
[quote name=mb21]No way would Votto or Bautista clear waivers.[/quote]
This was last week, that they were talking about it leaked today
[quote name=mb21]Why would the Reds make that trade?[/quote]
Bautista is under control relatively cheap for 4 more years. Votto is about to get expensive, and the years of control is less? Thats all I’ve got, aside from Votto being Candian. Or TOR knows Bautista can only hit like that in a Jays uniform.
GRABOWING THEIR WAY TO THE TOP
[quote name=mb21]Why would the Reds make that trade?[/quote]
Yonder Alonso, I guess
Cubs —> solidifying #3 pick
The Cubs scored 11 runs and still managed to go just 4-15 with RiSP. (dying laughing)
[quote name=mb21]There’s a difference between showing up the other team in the fashion I mentioned and a clean play. I said it at the time, Holliday’s play was clean. There was nothing dirty about it. That Castro was taken out, that was the entire point of the slide and the point of all slides like it. Not all players are going to blow kisses to the other team after they hit home runs, but they teach baserunners to take out the SS or 2B on a double play ball. There’s a difference between retaliating on something that is taught and done by all MLB players and retaliating against someone showing up the opponent. That’s not taught. It’s not standard. Taking the fielder out is.
All the players try to take out the fielder on plays like that. There’s going to be a lot of retaliating going on if we determine it’s acceptable to do so after such plays. I was glad the Cubs didn’t do anything stupid after that. It only ensures that EVERY team is going to be watching the Cubs more closely on plays like that and it’s inevitable it would lead to Cubs batters being hit.[/quote]
(dying laughing), I guess I can’t argue about this today. I just hate that aspect of baseball and hope it changes someday.
Whoa
http://www.cnbc.com/id/43989297
[quote name=Berselius]Whoa
http://www.cnbc.com/id/43989297/quote
It would be hilarious if the players won the lawsuit and the universities got all the money (dying laughing)
Brendan Ryan just had an infield hit, then ran to 2nd b/c no one was covering, then ran to third b/c the third baseman was the one covering second.
The A’s are bad a baseball.
I wonder if the Astros will ever win another game.
[quote name=Berselius]Whoa
http://www.cnbc.com/id/43989297/quoteWow.
[quote name=Berselius]It would be apropos if the players won the lawsuit and the universities got all the money (dying laughing)[/quote].
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Wow.[/quote]But they’re amateurs, so no one owns their likeness, they have no union protection like pros do. I don’t see it happening. If players were getting paid for likenesses, then I don’t think the NCAA could consider them amateurs. I don’t know all the legality behind it, though.
[quote name=josh]But they’re amateurs, so no one owns their likeness, they have no union protection like pros do. I don’t see it happening. If players were getting paid for likenesses, then I don’t think the NCAA could consider them amateurs. I don’t know all the legality behind it, though.[/quote]I think if they win this case, it will be the first step towards them being considered as non-amateurs.
(dying laughing) @ this rip job on Bob Brenly’s favorite player: http://withleather.uproxx.com/2011/08/craig-counsell-is-the-worst
Tommie Harris ——-> Colts
Kind of unfair for Geo to get an error here. http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=17564089
Right on cue to MB and MO’s points above, a Brewers RP had a breaking ball get away from him and hit Pujols. TLR left Motte in to throw twice at Braun (he missed the first time). (dying laughing)
I like the part where the Brewers had the bases loaded and the bottom of their order made three outs to score none of the runners (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder](dying laughing) @ this rip job on Bob Brenly’s favorite player: http://withleather.uproxx.com/2011/08/craig-counsell-is-the-worst/quoteTo be fair Counsell isn’t, or at least hasn’t always been, a bad player. He’s a poor hitter who’s racked up impressive defensive stats.
[quote name=ACT]Kind of unfair for Geo to get an error here. http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=17564089/quote
I think he should’ve thrown to first for the pickoff or double-clutched. That was definitely an error although Castro should’ve covered 2B more quickly.
He thought McCutchen was running to second, though. A left-handed hitter blocked his view.
TOOTBLAN? I say yes…
http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=17563253
[quote name=Rice Cube]TOOTBLAN? I say yes…
http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=17563253/quoteBarney did the right thing by running. If he doesn’t run, they get an out, anyway. Either way, it’s 2 outs with a runner on third.
That’s a situation where it’s good to run once the ball hits the ground. Here’s a discussion of a similar situation (coincidentally, also a Cubs game). http://www.insidethebook.com/ee/index.php/site/comments/just_put_me_on_tv_for_one_game_thats_all_i_would_last_anyway/
The Pirates are just as bad at rundowns as the Cubs.
[quote name=Berselius]Right on cue to MB and MO’s points above, a Brewers RP had a breaking ball get away from him and hit Pujols. TLR left Motte in to throw twice at Braun (he missed the first time). (dying laughing)[/quote]Tony LaRussa is the most grabasstic piece of inhuman shit in MLB.
[quote name=ACT]Barney did the right thing by running. If he doesn’t run, they get an out, anyway. Either way, it’s 2 outs with a runner on third.[/quote]
Yeah, I see your point, but I think he could have slowed the pitcher down long enough to force him to throw to first, before breaking for the plate as soon as the pitcher releases the ball to first base. But now we’ll never know. Pretty cool link from the Book btw. I don’t know if players memorize run expectancies and base/out situations though but you’d think it’s be second nature anyway.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Tony LaRussa is the most grabasstic piece of inhuman shit in MLB.[/quote]
Bonus points to the umpire for not ejecting Motte in what was an obvious intentional drilling.
[quote name=ACT]To be fair Counsell isn’t, or at least hasn’t always been, a bad player. He’s a poor hitter who’s racked up impressive defensive stats.[/quote]Yeah, the truth is there are tons of guys like him in MLB. I just think the gushing by Brenly makes Counsell’s historic ineptitude at the dish pretty damn funny.
[quote name=ACT]Barney did the right thing by running. If he doesn’t run, they get an out, anyway. Either way, it’s 2 outs with a runner on third.[/quote]The reason it took so long was because Ramirez was taking his sweet time getting to 3rd. Notice Barney pointing at him during the rundown.
[quote name=ACT]To be fair Counsell isn’t, or at least hasn’t always been, a bad player. He’s a poor hitter who still has the ability to play passable SS .[/quote]
.
[quote name=Berselius]Bonus points to the umpire for not ejecting Motte in what was an obvious intentional drilling.[/quote]Minus points for his not ejecting TLR. Although I’m not sure you can eject the manger in that case and not the pitcher.
[quote name=JMan]The reason it took so long was because Ramirez was taking his sweet time getting to 3rd. Notice Barney pointing at him during the rundown.[/quote]Ramirez runs like he has a piano on his back. He’s not loafing. That’s top gear. (dying laughing)
[quote name=ACT]The Pirates are just as bad at rundowns as the Cubs.[/quote]I liked Darwin Barney’s Super Mario jump at the end. I don’t know what he was doing. I’m sure there was a rational explanation. Still looked funny.
Ooh, Baltimore also won, so Cubs still have a chance at the #2 pick.
(dying laughing) Theriot Ked with the bases loaded by K-Rod, who was very expressive. Theriot gave him a nasty look, which was hilarious.
[quote name=josh]I liked Darwin Barney’s Super Mario jump at the end. I don’t know what he was doing. I’m sure there was a rational explanation. Still looked funny.[/quote]
I think he was trying to intentionally “unintentionally” get into the path of the baseball as it was being throw to Lee for the eventual tag. I can appreciate that kind of effort.
[quote name=Recalcitrant Blogger Nate](dying laughing) Theriot Ked with the bases loaded by K-Rod, who was very expressive. Theriot gave him a nasty look, which was hilarious.[/quote]I love White Sox-Cardinals matchups. It’s like a contest for which team can carry a bigger chip on their shoulder.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I think he was trying to intentionally “unintentionally” get into the path of the baseball as it was being throw to Lee for the eventual tag. I can appreciate that kind of effort.[/quote]it was fine, but it looked funny. My first thought was that he was trying to psyche out Derrek Lee.
If i am cincy i would do votto for Bautista.
Bautista is ahrder to come by than Votto.
I don’t see why Toronto would ink a guy to 5 years or whatever, then immediately trade him. That would have been odd.
[quote name=bubblesdachimp]If i am cincy i would do votto for Bautista.
Bautista is ahrder to come by than Votto.[/quote]
Cards should have traded Pujols. Just to show the rest of the baseball world that they were a team fresh out of fucks to give.
Milwaukee for the walkoff?
Giants are sucking against the D’Backs.
[quote name=josh]Cards should have traded Pujols. Just to show the rest of the baseball world that they were a team fresh out of fucks to give.[/quote]
Anti-TOOTBLAN!
http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=17585257&tcid=fb_sea_17585257&c_id=SEA&v=2
Yadier Molina just earned himself a huge fine and probably suspension.
Vitters drew 2 walks today. Really.
[quote name=josh]Yadier Molina just earned himself a huge fine and probably suspension.[/quote]
Some inadvertent umpire spitting was mixed in with his tirade.
[quote name=ACT]Vitters drew 2 walks today. Really.[/quote]
(dying laughing). I think this is the first update I’ve heard on any of Vitters’s games in weeks. Not a great sign
Fangraphs has his wRC+ as 95. Not quite what you’d hope for in a top hitting prospect.
[quote name=josh]Yadier Molina just earned himself a huge fine and probably suspension.[/quote]That whole team is the sweaty taint of MLB.
[quote name=ACT]Vitters drew 2 walks today. Really.[/quote]Holy shit. I think I just felt the earth move.
Corey Hart bunts!
[quote name=Rice Cube]Corey Hart bunts![/quote]
Stupid Brewers.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Holy shit. I think I just felt the earth move.[/quote]Oh, and Trey McNutt had a quality start (barely).
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]That whole team is the sweaty taint of MLB.[/quote]I have a friend who’s a Cardinal’s fan. It makes me physically ill. He didn’t grow up with them either, he just suddenly decided he was a baseball fan one day and started following the Cards. My Brewers fan friend…fine. Brewers fans I can understand
[quote name=ACT]Oh, and Trey McNutt had a quality start (barely).[/quote]Don’t these guys know this isn’t the way to make themselves untouchable?
[quote name=josh]I have a friend who’s a Cardinal’s fan. It makes me physically ill. He didn’t grow up with them either, he just suddenly decided he was a baseball fan one day and started following the Cards. My Brewers fan friend…fine. Brewers fans I can understand[/quote]Most of my family are Cardinals fans. They don’t bother me. But outside of Pujols, that team is one unlikeable collection of characters. And their manager is a miserable piece of shit.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Most of my family are Cardinals fans. They don’t bother me. But outside of Pujols, that team is one unlikeable collection of characters.[/quote]
Pujols goes a long way to make up for them, on and off the field
[quote name=Berselius]Pujols goes a long way to make up for them, on and off the field[/quote]Yeah. It will be sad when he’s no longer around. It’s been fun watching him go about his business.
Puma > Brewers
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Yeah. It will be sad when he’s no longer around. It’s been fun watching him go about his business.[/quote]I’m kind of worried the Cubs will end up signing him to a long contract and get Soriano’d again. I’d almost rather they stuck with Pena, and tried to get a prospect or two going.
The D’Backs and Giants are going to be tied atop the NL West.
[quote name=josh]I’m kind of worried the Cubs will end up signing him to a long contract and get Soriano’d again. I’d almost rather they stuck with Pena, and tried to get a prospect or two going.[/quote]Someone needs to tell Josh Vitters to stop sucking.
[quote name=josh]I’m kind of worried the Cubs will end up signing him to a long contract and get Soriano’d again. I’d almost rather they stuck with Pena, and tried to get a prospect or two going.[/quote]I think Pujols’ aging curve is going to be a whole lot softer than Soriano’s. Sori was always a deeply flawed player, and age simply served to expose those flaws. The only person I’ve ever seen better than Pujols at hitting baseballs is Barry Bonds. Pujols is one of the greatest players in the history of the game, so I think as much as we should be wary of his aging curve, we should also recognize that Soriano is kind of an apples-to-oranges comp for him.
And I want no part of Carlos Peña next year.
Sori was always a highly flawed player who got overvalued on the FA market because he was coming off a great year. That said, there was no way the Cubs could have anticipated the leg issues he would have starting with his first year on the team.
[quote name=ACT]Sori was always a highly flawed player who got overvalued on the FA market because he was coming off a great year. That said, there was no way the Cubs could have anticipated the leg issues he would have starting with his first year on the team.[/quote]Yeah, those quad and hamstring injuries just destroyed his game. Unfortunate, really.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Yeah, those quad and hamstring injuries just destroyed his game. Unfortunate, really.[/quote]Yeah, I agree. I’m not disputing Pujols is great. I was thinking more along the injury line than anything.
I know Pujols has been superman so far, but how long can that last?
EDIT: I guess Wolverine would be more apt — superhuman healing abilities.
New Pic of the Day: http://www.obstructedview.net/chicago-cubs/articles/ov-pic-of-the-day-boom-goes-the-dynamite.html