This Texas newspaper story has been circulating around the blogosphere for a while so I thought it deserved a bit of attention.
I think most everyone is aware that the number of star-quality or even major league-caliber African-American players in MLB has dwindled in recent years. The article does mention how the population of African-Americans in basketball and American football are much bigger than in MLB (we won’t even mention the NHL because I am pretty sure I can count the number of non-goaltender black players on one hand). There are several concerns that may or may not be significant, but they are there:
- Cost: as in ice hockey, baseball can be a very expensive sport with league fees, equipment (but who buys a $300 bat?!) and perhaps private instruction. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that as a whole, black Americans don’t have a lot of money.
- Support: baseball doesn’t offer as many scholarships, especially full-ride scholarships, as football or basketball.
- Marketing: MLB is stupid and doesn’t know how to advertise their game to appeal to the African-American community.
- My own addition, but I’m guessing it’s easier to rise through the ranks in basketball and football than it is in baseball, plus the former sports don’t have as stringent of a period of indentured servitude as MLB does.
It’s a good, quick read if you guys have the time.
I think MB actually blogged about this like months ago so feel free to remove this if it’s redundant.
Mine focused more on baseball scholarships and there’s nothing wrong with pointing this out on occasion. It needs attention. For the reasons you included here, I’m not sure there’s much we can do to get them interested in playing. I’m going to move this the front page shortly.
You forgot another bullet point……they should be removed from the HOF until Buck O’Neil gets in.
[quote name=Muckey]You forgot another bullet point……they should be removed from the HOF until Buck O’Neil gets in.[/quote]
Fuck! No dinner for me. Thank goodness I had all-you-can-eat sushi for lunch. I didn’t even have to go back to Japan to
savestuff my face.Interesting thing about that diminutive Astros 2B is that he has infinitely more professional home runs than Tony Campana.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Interesting thing about that diminutive Astros 2B is that he has infinitely more professional home runs than Tony Campana.[/quote]
yeah, he can mash (relatively speaking, of course).
also, I’m a humorless bastard
Cultural preferences are funny things. There are plenty of impoverished countries who are wild about baseball. It’s also tempting to point the blame at marketers, but probably wrong, imo.
I see two primary factors for the decline of blacks in professional baseball. The first is that baseball became a sport played the entire year rather than at specific points in the year. We see that when we look at where players are drafted from and where the talent in the big leagues came from. It’s mostly from warmer climates. Southern California, Arizona, Texas, Florida and so on. When this change took place, baseball’s already high cost to play became even higher and it made it that much more difficult for blacks to play the sport.
The other primary issue is that while black participation in the big leagues declined, so has white participation. This is because teams now spend more money in Latin America because it’s cheaper to produce talent from those parts than in the US.
A third issue is something I’ve talked about before: the lack of college baseball scholarships. Without the full scholarship, the black student is less likely to be able to afford to go to college than the white student.
There are other issues. Football at the pre-college levels are more profitable than any other sport so there’s more emphasis on talented athletic kids playing football or basketball.
The problem is no hot blonde cheerleaders with huge asses.
The real question is, why is there a lack of black posters on OV? AM I the closest? My 12″ dong says yes.
[quote name=GW]Cultural preferences are funny things. There are plenty of impoverished countries who are wild about baseball. It’s also tempting to point the blame at marketers, but probably wrong, imo.[/quote]
GW makes good points. I think most black kids see football and basketball as easier paths though, so even if baseball became more affordable, they’d still gravitate towards basketball and football. Can’t force kids to play a sport they don’t really want to play.
[quote name=Mish]The real question is, why is there a lack of black posters on OV? AM I the closest? My 12″ dong says yes.[/quote]It doesn’t count when you start measuring at your asshole.
[quote name=Mish]The real question is, why is there a lack of black posters on OV? AM I the closest? My 12″ dong says yes.[/quote]The white readership here is 86.03% based on the recent survey we did
[quote name=mb21]The white readership here is 86.03% based on the recent survey we did[/quote]
Other races are too lazy to log on or take the survey.
/Typical Chicago Sports Media Member
[quote name=Rice Cube]GW makes good points. I think most black kids see football and basketball as easier paths though, so even if baseball became more affordable, they’d still gravitate towards basketball and football. Can’t force kids to play a sport they don’t really want to play.[/quote]I’m not sure that’s really true. As black participation in baseball has declined, black participation in the other sports have no increased. The percentage of blacks in the NBA has remained consistent since it began to decline in MLB (same with the NFL). It’s distinctly possible that blacks that would have once played baseball can now get college educations and prefer to do that.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Other races are too lazy to log on or take the survey.
/Typical Chicago Sports Media Member[/quote]They’ve also walled themselves off here at OV and it’s really created poor chemistry around the site.
I still cannot believe Al posted something about the Latinos walling themselves off from the rest of the club. That was and remains the most retarded thing I’ve ever read about this team.
[quote name=mb21]I still cannot believe Al posted something about the Latinos walling themselves off from the rest of the club. That was and remains the most retarded thing I’ve ever read about this team.[/quote]
Apparently he also insinuated that minority Cubs players don’t stand during the national anthem and therefore are traitors.
Well, I made that last part up about the treason, but that’s probably the logical next step in the mind of the Yellon.
[quote name=mb21]I still cannot believe Al posted something about the Latinos walling themselves off from the rest of the club. That was and remains the most retarded thing I’ve ever read about this team.[/quote]Well, other than the “throw all the blacks out of the HOF” post.
[quote name=mb21]I still cannot believe Al posted something about the Latinos walling themselves off from the rest of the club. That was and remains the most retarded thing I’ve ever read about this team.[/quote]
Of course he published it, he had a source. A credible source, so it’s not a rumor and we need to know that the Latin players are jerks.
The Phillies suck.
He said they didn’t stand during the National Anthem? You know, even if that was true, who gives a fuck? They aren’t from this country.
CASTRO!
Too bad the Cubs don’t face guys like Halladay and Lee every day.
Castro homers so he can lazily round the bases.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Well, other than the “throw all the blacks out of the HOF” post.[/quote](dying laughing) yeah, it’s remarkable how many moronic things that man has written. I know I’ve said a lot, but I’m hopeful that none of them rival anything Alvin has ever said.
[quote name=mb21]I still cannot believe Al posted something about the Latinos walling themselves off from the rest of the club. That was and remains the most retarded thing I’ve ever read about this team.[/quote]Walling themselves off from the team? Uh….isn’t the team mostly Latino? Can Quade speak Spanish? Lou could speak a hilariously accented version of Spanish, but he could speak it.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Apparently he also insinuated that minority Cubs players don’t stand during the national anthem and therefore are traitors.
Well, I made that last part up about the treason, but that’s probably the logical next step in the mind of the Yellon.[/quote]He did note that it “dishonored the country.” As someone who has actually been taught proper flag etiquette, an utterly dishonorable thing to do is to be gawking at the dugout of the Cubs instead of facing towards and looking at the flag while the National Anthem is playing.
Holy shit, they are knocking the hell out of Cliff Lee. Seems like we saw this last year, with the Cubs playing their best games against the best pitchers. Probably my lying bullshit fuckface eyes.
my interpretation is that african americans don’t like baseball as much as they used too. I think mb has good points, but the effect of simple preferences is easy for analysts to ignore, because it’s hard to quantify.
Castro remains good at sports. Can’t believe what this collection of has-beens and never-will-be’s have done to Halladay and Lee. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]He did note that it “dishonored the country.” As someone who has actually been taught proper flag etiquette, an utterly dishonorable thing to do is to be gawking at the dugout of the Cubs instead of facing towards and looking at the flag while the National Anthem is playing.[/quote](dying laughing) I must dishonor this country at every game I go to. Alvin would hate me. I neither take my cap off nor face the flag. It has nothing to do with me making some kind of stand against this government. It’s just not something I want to do.
Oooh…strike three call was a bit generous, but too close to take.
[quote name=GW]my interpretation is that african americans don’t like baseball as much as they used too. I think mb has good points, but the effect of simple preferences is easy for analysts to ignore, because it’s hard to quantify.[/quote]Yeah, but disliking it less likely is caused by something. i know MO and berselius will hate me, but I dislike soccer. The reason for this is simple: I never played it as a kid and there’s no way I’m going to take the time to get into it now.
It will be interesting to see if the newer initiatives have any impact. I doubt they do because I think you either have to be ridiculously gifted to play baseball at the professional level or you need parents who are going to sink thousands a year into training. And that person still needs to be ridiculously gifted.
[quote name=mb21]Yeah, but disliking it less likely is caused by something. i know MO and berselius will hate me, but I dislike soccer. The reason for this is simple: I never played it as a kid and there’s no way I’m going to take the time to get into it now.
It will be interesting to see if the newer initiatives have any impact. I doubt they do because I think you either have to be ridiculously gifted to play baseball at the professional level or you need parents who are going to sink thousands a year into training. And that person still needs to be ridiculously gifted.[/quote]
yes. but it could be the inherent nature of the game (as much as we abhor the thought as fanatics)
[quote name=GW]yes. but it could be the inherent nature of the game (as much as we abhor the thought as fanatics)[/quote]Could be. There are certainly parts I like less and less as I get older. The pace of the game has really started to annoy me.
szrururu with another multi hit game including a HR to show off his lack of secondary skills
kg’d
Daytona Cubs just said that Szczur hit an inside-the-park HR.
Damn Matt Garza sucking at hitting.
Zeus just missed a perfect chance to get Peenya thrown out at home.
[quote name=ACT]Damn most pitchers sucking at hitting.[/quote]
We need the MO bunt signal!
I’ve been an NL guy my entire life, but bad pitcher hitting is the least interesting thing ever.
[quote name=ACT]I’ve been an NL guy my entire life, but bad pitcher hitting is the least interesting thing ever.[/quote]Agreed. And adding the Dh would mean less of the eminently stupid strategy of giving away an out.
I’ve been a fan of the NL my entire life, but I’m more of a fan of good ballplayers. Pitchers aren’t hitters. They don’t even fucking practice. They have no business batting. Ever.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Agreed. And adding the Dh would mean less of the eminently stupid strategy of giving away an out.[/quote]Yeah, that’s one obvious advantage, but in my opinion, the biggest advantage is that you have better players playing.
[quote name=mb21]Yeah, that’s one obvious advantage, but in my opinion, the biggest advantage is that you have better players playing.[/quote]That, too. It’s mind-boggling that someone enjoys watching a terrible player perform a task for which is more than ill-equipped.
[quote name=mb21]Yeah, that’s one obvious advantage, but in my opinion, the biggest advantage is that you have better players playing.[/quote]
Ya I’m on the MO/mb bandwagon. Good baseball > asinine definition of “pure” baseball.
[quote name=Mish]Ya I’m on the MO/mb bandwagon. Good baseball > asinine definition of “pure” baseball.[/quote]
I’d be okay with pure baseball if the pitcher weren’t pure suck at hitting.
I like to watch good acting performances, but 1 out of 9 times, I like to see a really shitty one.
I don’t mind sac bunts, but I hate it when everyone knows a bunt is coming. The defense comes in ridiculously close, and the batter should be taking advantage by swinging away.
I like to fuck hot chicks, but 1 out of 9 times, I want to fuck a fugly one.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I’d be okay with pure baseball if the pitcher weren’t pure suck at hitting.[/quote](dying laughing)
[quote name=Mish]I like to fuck hot chicks, but 1 out of 9 times, I want to fuck a fugly one.[/quote]HUMAN ELEMENT
[quote name=Mish]I like to fuck hot chicks, but 1 out of 9 times, I want to fuck a fugly one.[/quote]
Every now and then the fugly one can surprise you hahaha.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]That, too. It’s mind-boggling that someone enjoys watching a terrible player perform a task for which is more than ill-equipped.[/quote]Pitchers can’t afford to spend their energy hitting. The velocity and control the game today demands makes it a waste of their time to try to hit. Pitchers hitting is the worst. What about an 8-man batting lineup? Just skip the pitcher. QED bitches.
[quote name=josh]Pitchers can’t afford to spend their energy hitting. The velocity and control the game today demands makes it a waste of their time to try to hit. Pitchers hitting is the worst. What about an 8-man batting lineup? Just skip the pitcher. QED bitches.[/quote]
8 isn’t divisible by 3. It’s too improper.
/arbitrary’d
[quote name=Mish]Ya I’m on the MO/mb bandwagon. Good baseball > asinine definition of “pure” baseball.[/quote]
asinine definition of pure baseball = strawman
negative faget points all around!
Garza is doing something tonight. So far.
[quote name=GW]asinine definition of pure baseball = strawman
negative faget points all around![/quote]
Faget.
Though I really do get that argument quite a bit, as if “pure” is just a stand in for an actual argument.
I’d be fine with the 8-man lineup, personally. I hate it when a rally is starting up, but it gets killed because the pitcher comes up to bat. It’s infuriating.
Once upon a time, pure baseball meant a batter got 9 balls before a walk was issued, pitches were thrown underhand, and black people weren’t allowed to play. People fear change.
[quote name=ACT]I’d be fine with the 8-man lineup, personally. I hate it when a rally is starting up, but it gets killed because the pitcher comes up to bat. It’s infuriating.[/quote]Like last year when a .380 OBP hit. In front of the pitcher?
[quote name=Rice Cube]Once upon a time, pure baseball meant a batter got 9 balls before a walk was issued, pitches were thrown underhand, and black people weren’t allowed to play. People fear change.[/quote]They used to be able to get people out by throwing the ball at them. Also, catching the ball on one bounce counts as a fly out.
[quote name=Mish]Like last year when a .380 OBP hit. In front of the pitcher?[/quote]Yeah, I hate when the pitcher kills a rally by walking the 8-hitter. Lame.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Once upon a time, pure baseball meant a batter got 9 balls before a walk was issued, pitches were thrown underhand, and black people weren’t allowed to play. People fear change.[/quote]Just how Al likes it.
[quote name=ACT]They used to be able to get people out by throwing the ball at them. Also, catching the ball on one bounce counts as a fly out.[/quote]
Back then people were shorter than that Astros midget. So they could use that extra bounce.
Maybe we should make walking to first after receiving 4 balls optional, too.
Bye bye no no.
Well, that sucks…didn’t think he’d get a no-hitter anyway, but what a performance up to this point.
Aramis pops up with a runner on third and 1 out.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]That, too. It’s mind-boggling that someone enjoys watching a terrible player perform a task for which is more than ill-equipped.[/quote]Terrible is one thing in my opinion, but the fact they don’t even bother to practice hitting is what just pisses me off. Pitching is what they do. It’s what they should do. If they aren’t going to spend an adequate amount of time working on being a good hitter then I really don’t understand why someone would be happy paying to watch 90% of the batters in a game who actually give a shit about their job.
A lot of people complain this guy or this guy doesn’t do this or that and he’s not trying. Well, pitchers don’t give a flying fuck about hitting and nobody cares. If you don’t care about that, i don’t want to hear a word about Soriano lazily running to 1st or laying on a beach towel in the outfield when a fly ball is hit there. Same damn thing.
[quote name=Mish]I like to watch good acting performances, but 1 out of 9 times, I like to see a really shitty one.[/quote]Yep.
It’s bizarre.
[quote name=ACT]I don’t mind sac bunts, but I hate it when everyone knows a bunt is coming. The defense comes in ridiculously close, and the batter should be taking advantage by swinging away.[/quote]Yeah, I’m with you on that. Bunting is about taking advantage of what the defense gives you. If they come in, swing away. If they stay back, bunt.
[quote name=mb21]Terrible is one thing in my opinion, but the fact they don’t even bother to practice hitting is what just pisses me off. Pitching is what they do. It’s what they should do. If they aren’t going to spend an adequate amount of time working on being a good hitter then I really don’t understand why someone would be happy paying to watch 90% of the batters in a game who actually give a shit about their job.
A lot of people complain this guy or this guy doesn’t do this or that and he’s not trying. Well, pitchers don’t give a flying fuck about hitting and nobody cares. If you don’t care about that, i don’t want to hear a word about Soriano lazily running to 1st or laying on a beach towel in the outfield when a fly ball is hit there. Same damn thing.[/quote]Good point.
[quote name=josh]Pitchers can’t afford to spend their energy hitting. The velocity and control the game today demands makes it a waste of their time to try to hit. Pitchers hitting is the worst. What about an 8-man batting lineup? Just skip the pitcher. QED bitches.[/quote]I’m fine with an 8-man lineup. It’s much better than the current shit in the NL. I just think it would be much easier to just add the DH. For one thing, there’s no way you would get the union to agree to eliminate one starting job. Second, the AL already has the DH and uses the same 9-man lineup that baseball always has. Because of this, nobody is going to cry foul about records and we won’t need to talk about asterisks.
Both Soto and Hill are among the league leaders in errors.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Good point.[/quote]I’ve said it before, but I’m fine if the pitcher bats. That’s Ok too. If baseball wants to keep doing that, fine. But they god damn better start practicing hitting the ball.
That’s another thing that pisses me off. Way back pitchers used to practice hitting and were much better than they are today. They weren’t necessarily good, but shortstops and catchers haven’t always been good either. The game has changed. The pitcher went from a guy who was just supposed to throw strikes so the batter could make contact to someone who wanted to strike guys out and expend more energy doing so. He doesn’t have enough time to practice hitting so the DH is the obvious solution. The AL should be applauded for what they did.
[quote name=Mish]Faget.
Though I really do get that argument quite a bit, as if “pure” is just a stand in for an actual argument.[/quote]Agreed. Ask 10 fans who adamantly oppose the DH to explain in a paragraph why they do and there’s about a 95% chance the word pure will be used in some way or another.
[quote name=mb21]Agreed. Ask 10 fans who adamantly oppose the DH to explain in a paragraph why they do and there’s about a 95% chance the word pure will be used in some way or another.[/quote]
well, pure could appropriately be used as a substitute for symmetry, imo. No need to lump this argument in with all the other baseball purity arguments, and charge guilt by association.
[quote name=mb21]I’ve said it before, but I’m fine if the pitcher bats. That’s Ok too. If baseball wants to keep doing that, fine. But they god damn better start practicing hitting the ball.
That’s another thing that pisses me off. Way back pitchers used to practice hitting and were much better than they are today. They weren’t necessarily good, but shortstops and catchers haven’t always been good either. The game has changed. The pitcher went from a guy who was just supposed to throw strikes so the batter could make contact to someone who wanted to strike guys out and expend more energy doing so. He doesn’t have enough time to practice hitting so the DH is the obvious solution. The AL should be applauded for what they did.[/quote]Part of that is 4-man rotations and pitchers going deeper into games. Also, the fact that there are 2 leagues with different rules changes things.
[quote name=ACT]Both Soto and Hill are among the league leaders in errors.[/quote]But at least Soto has been gunning prospective basestealers.
[quote name=ACT]Part of that is 4-man rotations and pitchers going deeper into games. Also, the fact that there are 2 leagues with different rules changes things.[/quote]You see Ozzie Guillen is going with a 6-man rotation right now?
Back to the game, nice job, Garza striking out 2 good hitters with a runner on third.
[quote name=GW]well, pure could appropriately be used as a substitute for symmetry, imo. No need to lump this argument in with all the other baseball purity arguments, and charge guilt by association.[/quote]But the same people that cry about the purity or sanctity of the game are for the most part the same people that cry about the DH.
As I said, I don’t care if the pitcher bats. I just expect him to be a good hitter. He’ll have to work twice as hard and make significantly more money than he already does, but I don’t care about that. NL fans see an average of 6 plate appearances per game of players who literally care so little about what they’re doing that they don’t even practice. By any definition, these people simply don’t care about how they do at the plate.
That’s fucked up.
[quote name=ACT]Part of that is 4-man rotations and pitchers going deeper into games. Also, the fact that there are 2 leagues with different rules changes things.[/quote]Yeah, but the point is that when people decided a pitcher would bat they did so because he wasn’t a ridiculously awful hitter. When baseball was trying to attract fans, I’m certain they’d have used a DH for the pitcher if the pitchers were as bad at hitting as they are today.
[quote name=mb21]But the same people that cry about the purity or sanctity of the game are for the most part the same people that cry about the DH.
As I said, I don’t care if the pitcher bats. I just expect him to be a good hitter. He’ll have to work twice as hard and make significantly more money than he already does, but I don’t care about that. NL fans see an average of 6 plate appearances per game of players who literally care so little about what they’re doing that they don’t even practice. By any definition, these people simply don’t care about how they do at the plate.
That’s fucked up.[/quote]
well yes, that seems to be the sentiment of this thread. but not just the dh, every change in baseball history. we’ve had this discussion before. your argument has it’s own merits. no need to lump the opposition in with a whole host of other, less debatable things.
[quote name=mb21]Yeah, but the point is that when people decided a pitcher would bat they did so because he wasn’t a ridiculously awful hitter. When baseball was trying to attract fans, I’m certain they’d have used a DH for the pitcher if the pitchers were as bad at hitting as they are today.[/quote]I the causation was stronger in the other direction. Pitchers had to work on their hitting because they got so many at-bats. But it’s really a chicken-and-egg thing I guess.
[quote name=mb21]Agreed. Ask 10 fans who adamantly oppose the DH to explain in a paragraph why they do and there’s about a 95% chance the word pure will be used in some way or another.[/quote]I think the DH is also good to protect the pitcher. They have to work physically harder than anyone else on the diamond on an average day. As teams see more and more pitchers hurt baserunning, and their investments going into the toilet, they’ll start wanting to DH. Plus, once you play in the AL for a few years, you’re ruined for hitting. If you quit practicing for a few years at that level, you’re never going to be able to hit decently.
Grabow is getting loose!
I almost spelled “loose” as “lose.” I wonder what Freud would think.
Stephanie Izard is the John Grabow of singing.
[quote name=ACT]I the causation was stronger in the other direction. Pitchers had to work on their hitting because they got so many at-bats. But it’s really a chicken-and-egg thing I guess.[/quote]That could be, but as a whole pitchers are still getting a similar number of plate appearances.
Grabow up in the pen to try and gain some ground on that #1 pick.
[quote name=josh]I think the DH is also good to protect the pitcher. They have to work physically harder than anyone else on the diamond on an average day. As teams see more and more pitchers hurt baserunning, and their investments going into the toilet, they’ll start wanting to DH. Plus, once you play in the AL for a few years, you’re ruined for hitting. If you quit practicing for a few years at that level, you’re never going to be able to hit decently.[/quote]Yeah, considering how often pitchers already get injured, it seems to me you’d want to eliminate some ways in which they could get injured. And one of those ways is eliminating the potential getting injured doing something they don’t even care about.
[quote name=mb21]Yeah, considering how often pitchers already get injured, it seems to me you’d want to eliminate some ways in which they could get injured. And one of those ways is eliminating the potential getting injured doing something they don’t even care about.[/quote]Well, if they’re shitty hitters and awesome pitchers, they get paid big dollars. If they are good hitters and mediocre pitchers, they have a lot of fun riding a bus in Double A.
someone should start a Power League, like arena football, but for baseball, that speeds the game way up. You could even do it inside. Implement a bunch of rule changes that make the game more exciting and see if people show up. Arena football still has a dedicated following. Are you getting old when you start getting sick of the way baseball is played? Or are you automatically a commie?
I’m with you, Josh. I absolutely hate how long baseball games are anymore. I see no reason for them to be this long. When I was young and started watching baseball, the games last 2 and a half hours. A quick game would be over in 2 hours and a long game would take 3 hours. Baseball needs to get back to that. They need to shorten it even more. 2 hours should be the goal. There’s no reason a 9-inning game can’t be completed in 2 hours.
I know commercial breaks have stretched it out some, but also just pitchers and batters taking their sweet time.
Unrelated note: I was surprised when the Reds dropped X million dollars on Aroldis Chapman and have been using him as a reliever. Was he never a starter? When I heard how much they paid for him, I couldn’t believe they brought him up as a short reliever.
mb, I gather from reading every word that you prefer college football to the pro game. should i take from this that you also prefer shitty actors to good ones?
It’s too long for a game played every day. it’s fine for football, but for an everyday game, 1-2 hours would make more sense. And if the game could be shortened, we’d see fewer pitchers blowing out their elbows. I think the fear is that you lose fans, but maybe in the long run you gain young fans who would come out to see a high-paced, fast, fun version of baseball
Hmmm…Marshall is today’s bed-shitter.
I would have never expected Garza to give up the lead in the 8th with 113 pitches thrown to start the inning. Never. That’s why I’m not a big league manager.
Marshall doing his best to earn that #1 pick.
Castro can has defense.
[quote name=Crhis Dickerson]I would have never expected Garza to give up the lead in the 8th with 113 pitches thrown to start the inning. Never. That’s why I’m not a big league manager.[/quote]
Marshall did it (dying laughing)
Great play by Cassie and Sote both.
[quote name=Crhis Dickerson]I would have never expected Garza to give up the lead in the 8th with 113 pitches thrown to start the inning. Never. That’s why I’m not a big league manager.[/quote]Well, you’d have been right, since Sean Marshall allowed the tying run to reach and gave up the 2B to Utley.
[quote name=GW]mb, I gather from reading every word that you prefer college football to the pro game. should i take from this that you also prefer shitty actors to good ones?[/quote]I’m not sure what you’re getting at here.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Hmmm…Marshall is today’s bed-shitter.[/quote]
New sponsor for the Cubs, Temper-Pedic Bed Shitting of the Day Award. It will replace the player of the game award.
[quote name=josh]It’s too long for a game played every day. it’s fine for football, but for an everyday game, 1-2 hours would make more sense. And if the game could be shortened, we’d see fewer pitchers blowing out their elbows. I think the fear is that you lose fans, but maybe in the long run you gain young fans who would come out to see a high-paced, fast, fun version of baseball[/quote]I think you probably would gain fans in the long run and the reality is that you’re probably not going to lose many fans to begin with. People who consider themselves baseball fans aren’t actually fans because there’s no DH in the NL or because the game is 3+ hours long.
I liked what you said in another thread about this and I’ve been trying to think of a way to write something up about that, but like so many other things these days, I keep losing interest. One of these days I will though, because I think you had a great idea.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Well, you’d have been right, since Sean Marshall allowed the tying run to reach and gave up the 2B to Utley.[/quote]
Burn. I am humiliated.
[quote name=Crhis Dickerson]Burn. I am humiliated.[/quote]We expect you will accordingly deprive yourself of dinner for the evening. You also may not play softball.
IBB Pena with nobody on and two down to get to Soto.
Geo should be insulted. If he weren’t suffering from a bout of suck.
What’s up with Lee being pulled early? Only 89 pitches. Was he hurt?
/too lazy to scroll up
[quote name=Berselius]What’s up with Lee being pulled early? Only 89 pitches. Was he hurt?
/too lazy to scroll up[/quote]
Two on, two out, so he was pinch-hit for since his spot came up in the 7th.
[quote name=Berselius]What’s up with Lee being pulled early? Only 89 pitches. Was he hurt?
/too lazy to scroll up[/quote]They had runners on and needed to pinch hit.
Ah, Geo…good AB, but he’s terrible at the offspeed stuff.
I could get used to living here in Vancouver. It’s a pretty nice city. Even if they have those civil unrest issues (dying laughing)
In less than 100 plate appearances Tony Campana has been worth 0.7 fWAR and .6 rWAR. Not at all a good hitter, but an outstanding baserunner and fielder.
[quote name=mb21]In less than 100 plate appearances Tony Campana has been worth 0.7 fWAR and .6 rWAR. Not at all a good hitter, but an outstanding baserunner and fielder.[/quote]Jack Wilson has made an entire career based on defense, so why not.
[quote name=mb21]In less than 100 plate appearances Tony Campana has been worth 0.7 fWAR and .6 rWAR. Not at all a good hitter, but an outstanding baserunner and fielder if you ignore the miniscule sample size[/quote].
You guys think it’s better to let Brett Jackson just come up as a September call-up? Another strikeout tonight. But a couple walks!
[quote name=Berselius]I could get used to living here in Vancouver. It’s a pretty nice city. Even if they have those civil unrest issues (dying laughing)[/quote]It’s beautiful there. I have family that lives in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. I got an email from them a couple days ago and they said it was 70 there. Heat index of 113 here. (dying laughing)
Bedshitting complete.
Of course sample size is an issue, but he has a reputation as an outstanding fielder and baserunner. It’s not too surprising to see that his numbers at the big league level are what we thought they’d be. it’s as surprising to see him play good defense as it’s been to see Castro play horrible defense. We knew Castro was a bad fielder before he even reached the big leagues.
I’m not saying the Cubs should sign him to a longterm contract or anything. I’m just saying what I said before he even made his debut: he’s likely a good enough fielder and baserunner to make up for his shitty hitting.
Time for Sean Marshall to go work on stuff I guess (dying laughing)
It would be a shame if Marshall gets a loss today. His pitches (especially his breaking balls) were extremely sharp.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Bedshitting complete.[/quote]Marshall did his bit.
Antonio Bastardo: makes the 12-year-old in me laugh every time.
[quote name=mb21]Of course sample size is an issue, but he has a reputation as an outstanding fielder and baserunner. It’s not too surprising to see that his numbers at the big league level are what we thought they’d be. it’s as surprising to see him play good defense as it’s been to see Castro play horrible defense. We knew Castro was a bad fielder before he even reached the big leagues.
I’m not saying the Cubs should sign him to a longterm contract or anything. I’m just saying what I said before he even made his debut: he’s likely a good enough fielder and baserunner to make up for his shitty hitting.[/quote]
What we saw of his arm really sucked. He reminds me of a poor man’s (dying laughing), though I don’t know well enough if his range makes up for it as well as Pierre’s did (career + 39 in UZR but only +9 in DRS).
Campana’s arm is weaker than (dying laughing)’s and his judgment on balls isn’t always the greatest. I’ve seen him make quite a few awkward looking plays. He has speed but to call him an outstanding defender seems like a huge stretch.
Marshall pitched great. That BABIP dragon kicked his ass.
[quote name=mb21]Of course sample size is an issue, but he has a reputation as an outstanding fielder and baserunner. It’s not too surprising to see that his numbers at the big league level are what we thought they’d be. it’s as surprising to see him play good defense as it’s been to see Castro play horrible defense. We knew Castro was a bad fielder before he even reached the big leagues.
I’m not saying the Cubs should sign him to a longterm contract or anything. I’m just saying what I said before he even made his debut: he’s likely a good enough fielder and baserunner to make up for his shitty hitting.[/quote]His OBP in the minors is near .400. If he could learn to do that in MLB, he’d be valuable.
Oops, make that +6 in DRS
I’ll stick with what I said a couple months ago: Tony Campana is a better ballplayer than Alfonso Soriano. He’s definitely not worse. In 200 more PA than Campana, Soriano has less fWAR and less rWAR. That’s kind of funny (and sad) when you think about it.
Small sample size applies of course.
[quote name=melissa]Campana’s arm is weaker than Juan (dying laughing)’s and his judgment on balls isn’t always the greatest. I’ve seen him make quite a few awkward looking plays. He has speed but to call him an outstanding defender seems like a huge stretch.[/quote]
He’s as good a defender as 2006-2007 Soriano was (dying laughing)
Most of that probably due to range and speed rather than defensive instincts/acumen.
[quote name=melissa]Campana’s arm is weaker than Juan (dying laughing)’s and his judgment on balls isn’t always the greatest. I’ve seen him make quite a few awkward looking plays. He has speed but to call him an outstanding defender seems like a huge stretch.[/quote]Yeah, Kosuke has made up with just okay speed by getting really good jumps on balls. Campana might get better with a little seasoning. He’s no Sam Fuld on defense, though. I wonder if they traded Sam because they figured Campana could fill that same defense/speed slot.
Tony’s WAR is also misleading because he’s often brought in as a pinch-runner, so you can’t really do it per PA. (I also don’t think there’s any way he’s as good as or better than Soriano. Those small sample size stats offer little in the way of evidence to the contrary.)
[quote name=melissa]Campana’s arm is weaker than Juan (dying laughing)’s and his judgment on balls isn’t always the greatest. I’ve seen him make quite a few awkward looking plays. He has speed but to call him an outstanding defender seems like a huge stretch.[/quote]I don’t think it’s a stretch to stick with what the scouts have said about him as opposed to making a decision based on a few innings of what we’ve seen. Our opinions are undoubtedly impacted by what we think of him as a hitter.
I guess I’m the only one who appreciates these long ABs even though they end up with strikeouts. Good AB by Soto last inning and another good one by Kosuke this inning, but nothing really to show for them.
[quote name=josh]His OBP in the minors is near .400. If he could learn to do that in MLB, he’d be valuable.[/quote]Judging from his 7.4% MiLB walk rate, it’s unlikely his MLB OBP will be anywhere even close to that.
[quote name=mb21]I don’t think it’s a stretch to stick with what the scouts have said about him as opposed to making a decision based on a few innings of what we’ve seen. Our opinions are undoubtedly impacted by what we think of him as a hitter.[/quote]My opinion of his arm is based on seeing him make several shitty throws. Period.
[quote name=mb21]I’m not sure what you’re getting at here.[/quote]
My point is that in some form, many of us will choose aesthetics over talent. It’s just a matter of where we draw the line. I prefer that all nine fielders bat, I enjoy college basketball more than the nba, and I liked all three of The Matrix, Point Break, and Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I guess I’m the only one who appreciates these long ABs even though they end up with strikeouts. Good AB by Soto last inning and another good one by Kosuke this inning, but nothing really to show for them.[/quote]Doesn’t it seem like long ABs this year are poison to the Cubs? It seems like, to me, that’s one of the big differences between this team and 2008, is just their ability to cash in on the long ABs.
Damn that Bastardo.
[quote name=ACT]Tony’s WAR is also misleading because he’s often brought in as a pinch-runner, so you can’t really do it per PA. (I also don’t think there’s any way he’s as good as or better than Soriano. Those small sample size stats offer little in the way of evidence to the contrary.)[/quote]Yeah, the pinch runner issue is a big one, but I count 6 games in which he’s been only a pinch runner. Maybe he pinch ran and got another plate appearance, but only 6 times has he played in a game and not gotten any plate appearances. I’d take Campana over Soriano any day. Soriano can’t run, can’t get on base, can’t field, and can barely even hit these days. Campana can’t hit and can’t get on base, but he can field and run the bases.
How the hell did Soriano have a 33 UZR in 2007? Was that the year he threw out like 10 guys?
The 19 assists helped.
the cubs might have something with Wang down in Boise. He is dominating again
[quote name=dylanj]the cubs might have something with Wang down in Boise. He is dominating again[/quote]
I don’t think they’re progressive enough to field girls in the farm system, DJ.
/immature’d
Yeah, he did seem to hit his mark often that year. UZR has always struck me as a strange statistic, I guess. In that it seems the most counter to the highlight reels, I guess. Like Asdrubal Cabrera, who seems to make an amazing play every day at SS, but has a negative UZR. From what I can tell, it’s because he lacks range.
Anyway, Sori’s TZ is positive, his UZR is positive, and his DRS and FRAA are only slightly negative. I doubt he’s that bad compared to other left-fielders (who mostly suck). I also think (based on past performance) that his hitting talent level is higher than what his stats show this year.
That said, if Sori would retire today, I’d be thrilled.
[quote name=ACT]That said, if Sori would retire today, I’d be thrilled.[/quote]Do they have to pay him if he retires? Seems like bullshit if they do, but a contract is a contract, I guess.
[quote name=josh] UZR has always struck me as a strange statistic, I guess. In that it seems the most counter to the highlight reels[/quote]It is, however, extremely friendly to Brandon Phillips (especially compared to other measures).
[quote name=josh]Do they have to pay him if he retires? Seems like bullshit if they do, but a contract is a contract, I guess.[/quote]I don’t know how it works, exactly, but I doubt they have to pay the whole thing.
[quote name=ACT]It is, however, extremely friendly to Brandon Phillips (especially compared to other measures).[/quote]I think they give the Reds bonus points because they have to live in Cincinnati.
Depends on the contract. It’s likely if Soriano retired he’d first workout some kind of deal with the Cubs who would be thrilled to pay him a shitload of money to call it quits. If he just stepped to the mic tomorrow and retired the Cubs would owe him nothing unless there was some ridiculously stupid clause in his contract that allowed for him to quit at any time and still get paid.
I don’t even care if Soriano retires. I’d be thrilled if the Cubs just bought out his entire contract and moved on.
[quote name=Rice Cube]You guys think it’s better to let Brett Jackson just come up as a September call-up? Another strikeout tonight. But a couple walks![/quote]
According to Gameday, he looks to have hit about a 415 foot flyout too.
DeVoss & Wang and Holiman need to be in Peoria
Jackson could come up but I wouldnt mind if he stayed in AAA the rest of the year either.
[quote name=dylanj]Jackson could come up but I wouldnt mind if he stayed in AAA the rest of the year either.[/quote]I agree. At this point I’d leave him in the minors until next June so the Cubs get the extra year and the extra year of league minimum.
[quote name=mb21]Depends on the contract. It’s likely if Soriano retired he’d first workout some kind of deal with the Cubs who would be thrilled to pay him a shitload of money to call it quits. If he just stepped to the mic tomorrow and retired the Cubs would owe him nothing unless there was some ridiculously stupid clause in his contract that allowed for him to quit at any time and still get paid.
I don’t even care if Soriano retires. I’d be thrilled if the Cubs just bought out his entire contract and moved on.[/quote]I agree, I’m just thinking they wouldn’t do it. It’s like they have more to lose than he does, in terms of Ego, but it’s easier to be cold-blooded when you’re an organization than when it’s your future on the line. I think someone would pick him up if they cut him. The Orioles or someone. Hell, if Vlad can DH, then Sori can.
i would too md. I still think the world of Jackson but there are parts of his game to work on. He isnt old for his level by any means.
And I also agree that Campana should start every day for the rest of the year. There is a chance he could be better than we think. His minor #’s arent great but if he plays great D and gets on base at a respectable clip he could be serviceable
[quote name=dylanj]i would too md. I still think the world of Jackson but there are parts of his game to work on. He isnt old for his level by any means.
And I also agree that Campana should start every day for the rest of the year. There is a chance he could be better than we think. His minor #’s arent great but if he plays great D and gets on base at a respectable clip he could be serviceable[/quote]Exactly. Maybe you got nothing, but give Campy a chance to show it. What do you have to lose?
at worst you have a solid 4th OF
In other minor league happenings, I see AZ Phil said Hayden Simpson topped out at a Doug Davis-esque 86 mph in his last start.
I used to listen to the radio call ins obsessively. I’ve been much happier since I stopped doing that.
[quote name=dylanj]i would too md. I still think the world of Jackson but there are parts of his game to work on. He isnt old for his level by any means.
And I also agree that Campana should start every day for the rest of the year. There is a chance he could be better than we think. His minor #’s arent great but if he plays great D and gets on base at a respectable clip he could be serviceable[/quote]
Agreed on both parts. Doubtful Campana could ever be a starter, but this team has no reason whatsoever to not see if he can play outstanding defense and stick in CF on a daily basis. For a team that needs cheap productive players he’s the kind of guy ho could actually surprise you. Probably won’t, but nothing to lose. He’s better than the alternative. Stick him in CF, move to Byrd to LF.
[quote name=Chris Dickerson]In other minor league happenings, I see AZ Phil said Hayden Simpson topped out at a Doug Davis-esque 86 mph in his last start.[/quote]Wow. That really sucks for him. The mono must have really fucked him over. Still a ridiculously bad draft pick regardless of that.
[quote name=Chris Dickerson]In other minor league happenings, I see AZ Phil said Hayden Simpson topped out at a Doug Davis-esque 86 mph in his last start.[/quote]Stick a fork in him.
its either mono or his arm is fucked
I hope it’s the mono and he can recover, but I’m a pessimist.
Are the Cubs unusual in the number of pitchers’ arms hurt, or is that just the reality of the game now?
Byrd has traditionally played his best D in right. Maybe with Kosuke’s decreased range over the past couple of years, he and Reed can platoon left with Campy playing center for the season and Sori riding pine/playing 2nd (ha ha (dying laughing) etc)
They should trade Pena ASAP and put Soriano at 1B. But that would never happen.
[quote name=mb21]Wow. That really sucks for him. The mono must have really fucked him over. Still a ridiculously bad draft pick regardless of that.[/quote]I think the mono excuse is 100% bullshit. Seriously, this would have to be the most destructive case of mono in recorded human history. No doubt it took its toll, but I’m far more willing to say that Hayden Simpson just isn’t that good. I don’t buy the mono line the team is selling for even a minute.
[quote name=Rice Cube]They should trade Pena ASAP and put Soriano at 1B. But that would never happen.[/quote]Pena, Soto, and Ramirez should be dealt ASAP, maybe Demp and Garza, too.
well something happened to the kid he went from low to mid 90′s to mid 80′s all year. its either injury or like mo said the worst fucking case of mono ever
[quote name=dylanj]well something happened to the kid he went from low to mid 90′s to mid 80′s all year. its either injury or like mo said the worst fucking case of mono ever[/quote]If his arm is injured, the Cubs should be sued for running him out there over and over while touting this mono thing.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Pena, Soto, and Ramirez should be dealt ASAP, maybe Demp and Garza, too.[/quote]
Since when have the Cubs done something they should have done?
Brandon Belt is having a nice game in his latest call-up.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Since when have the Cubs done something they should have done?[/quote]Making a decent run at getting the #1 pick. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Making a decent run at getting the #1 pick. (dying laughing)[/quote]
The good news on that front is that they’re in the #2 position again since KC won.
[quote name=Rice Cube]The good news on that front is that they’re in the #2 position again since KC won.[/quote]Savor every moment.
The Astros also won. Yay!
If the Cubs are going to let Campana play OF every day, they better get him a t-shirt cannon or the game will take 30 minutes longer while we wait for him to roll the ball back in every time he catches it.
This was pretty cool:
http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=17050777
OK, checking on the Campana thing, he was brought in as a PR 7 times, and this accounts for only 2 of his steals, so this has a small impact on his war. Still, there are a lot of issues, since he comes in as a substitute a lot (usually defensive or PH) and the days he does start are almost always against right-handed hitting. I’d be surprised if he isn’t worse than Sori if he starts everyday, but I guess I wouldn’t mind finding out.
[quote name=ACT]OK, checking on the Campana thing, he was brought in as a PR 7 times, and this accounts for only 2 of his steals, so this has a small impact on his war. Still, there are a lot of issues, since he comes in as a substitute a lot (usually defensive or PH) and the days he does start are almost always against right-handed hitting. I’d be surprised if he isn’t worse than Sori if he starts everyday, but I guess I wouldn’t mind finding out.[/quote]There’s no point, I suppose, in not finding out how Campana does in an everyday role. The season is over. I just think the answer to “What do we have in Tony Campana?” is going to be “A poor man’s Doug Dascenzo.”
At least Dougie D. was good for the occasional scoreless relief appearance.
[quote name=ACT]At least Dougie D. was good for the occasional scoreless relief appearance.[/quote]I doubt Campana has the arm for it.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I doubt Campana has the arm for it.[/quote]
If Aaron Miles can be a relief pitcher, any MLB player can (dying laughing)
[quote name=ACT]At least Dougie D. was good for the occasional scoreless relief appearance.[/quote]He played the game right.
[quote name=Ryne Sandberg]He played the game right.[/quote]Right into the hall of fame! Amirite? Yeah?
So apparently there are only 2.6 million people in America with a chance of being intelligent.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]
[/quote]
now thats a good video
[quote name=Jame Gumb]So apparently there are only 2.6 million people in America with a chance of being intelligent.[/quote]2,600,001. I watched it the next day.
Deroick Leigh. (dying laughing)
[quote name=dylanj]now thats a good video[/quote]
He died, dj.
[quote name=GBTS]2,600,001. I watched it the next day.[/quote]
Well? Get to work.
Football and basketball, especially basketball, seem to get a lot more funding at the prep level as well. I live in MD and when I was in school, the #1 ranked HS in America was a private school right down the street from where I lived. They had 3 guys go to Duke, UNC, and NC State. It was an all white school with the exception of the basketball team. None of the players were locals. They were all recruited to go to that prep school.
You see that a lot with basketball teams and football teams but you don’t hear too often about high school baseball teams having that level of commitment to the sport. I think that has a lot to do with it as well. Even at the prep level, black players are getting better opportunities in basketball and football as opposed to baseball.
James Shields ——> TEX
If it happened to Deroick Leigh, it could happen Ahrahmus Rahmeres.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]James Shields ——> TEX[/quote]
That’s something I’d love to be able to post in the next week or so.
[quote name=mb21]If it happened to Deroick Leigh, it could happen Ahrahmus Rahmeres.[/quote]
That’s true, ehmbeetwintiewahn.
[quote name=Muckey]Football and basketball, especially basketball, seem to get a lot more funding at the prep level as well. I live in MD and when I was in school, the #1 ranked HS in America was a private school right down the street from where I lived. They had 3 guys go to Duke, UNC, and NC State. It was an all white school with the exception of the basketball team. None of the players were locals. They were all recruited to go to that prep school.
You see that a lot with basketball teams and football teams but you don’t hear too often about high school baseball teams having that level of commitment to the sport. I think that has a lot to do with it as well. Even at the prep level, black players are getting better opportunities in basketball and football as opposed to baseball.[/quote]Great point, Muckey. I really think the issue has to do with opportunity or at least it’s the primary reason anyway. It’s just easier for white kids to play baseball in the US than it is for blacks.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]That’s something I’d love to be able to post in the next week or so.[/quote]What you willing to give up?
Reds are supposedly in on Shields too.
[quote name=Mish]What you willing to give up?[/quote]
What does TB need?
I’d say one of Perez/Erlin, one of Martin/Beltre and some spare parts, probably.
[quote name=mb21]Great point, Muckey. I really think the issue has to do with opportunity or at least it’s the primary reason anyway. It’s just easier for white kids to play baseball in the US than it is for blacks.[/quote]Exactly. Majority of blacks are inner city where bball courts are everywhere and bball fields are few and far between.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]What does TB need?
I’d say one of Perez/Erlin, one of Martin/Beltre and some spare parts, probably.[/quote]
Catcher, First base stand out as needs; probably another outfielder who can hit; maybe an arm considering how Archer has puttered this week.
I think their okay in the Middle infield and Joyce/Guyer/Jennings will make up some part of the OF, but the catching prospects might have limited ceilings (Chirinos, Lobaton) or are far off/struggling so far (Justin O Connor).
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/07/20/alfonso-soriano-unlike-aramis-ramirez-wont-block-trade-from-cubs/
[quote name=Mish]Catcher, First base stand out as needs; probably another outfielder who can hit; maybe an arm considering how Archer has puttered this week.
I think their okay in the Middle infield and Joyce/Guyer/Jennings will make up some part of the OF, but the catching prospects might have limited ceilings (Chirinos, Lobaton) or are far off/struggling so far (Justin O Connor).[/quote]
I would think an Erlin/Martin/Alfaro package might be a good starting point.
[quote name=Jame Gumb]That’s true, ehmbeetwintiewahn.[/quote]
MB —> Jedi name’d
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/U-mad-bro-Young-Giants-fan-pouts-big-time-over?urn=mlb-wp13298
(dying laughing) @ death-stare kid
[quote name=Rice Cube]MB —> Jedi name’d[/quote]
Embi Twenti-Wan.
Change your name STAT, mb21!
[quote name=Mish]http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/07/20/alfonso-soriano-unlike-aramis-ramirez-wont-block-trade-from-cubs/[/quote]If the Cubs find some team who wants Soriano Hendry needs to stick around because that will be the most impressive thing any GM has ever done. Ever.
[quote name=mb21]If the Cubs find some team who wants Soriano Hendry needs to stick around because that will be the most impressive thing any GM has ever done. Ever.[/quote]
Even more impressive than when AA made the Angels take Vernon Wells and didn’t have to send a dime?
[quote name=Jame Gumb]I would think an Erlin/Martin/Alfaro package might be a good starting point.[/quote]Perez and Erlin both got B+ grades from Sickels preseason, so that is probably a good starting point.
[quote name=Mish]Perez and Erlin both got B+ grades from Sickels preseason, so that is probably a good starting point.[/quote]
Whoa, whoa, whoa. You get ONE of Perez and Erlin. Perez is one of the top 5 or so pitching prospects in baseball. Take a look at what Erlin has done for TEX and tell me you’re not impressed.
http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=erlin-001rob
New Pic of the Day: http://www.obstructedview.net/chicago-cubs/articles/ov-pic-of-the-day-are-we-having-fun-yet.html
[quote name=mb21]If the Cubs find some team who wants Soriano Hendry needs to stick around because that will be the most impressive thing any GM has ever done. Ever.[/quote]He’d be an upgrade over Jorge Posada at DH, for example.
(dying laughing), as an A/A player much of the commentary is subjective at best & typically misses the mark why participation rates plummeted since the 80′s. I offer the following informed pov:
1) Black owned leagues/teams stars integration into MLB decimated the grass roots fan interest & talent dvlpt infrastructure. The seasoned, old coaches/trusted advisors located w/in the inner city communities died out.
2) MLB shifted toolsy prospect acquistion away from inner city to Caribbean due to lower cost & greater supply.
3) MLB migration to less spacious outfield, non-astro turf stadiums featuring home run centric offenses contributed to less demand for faster, more athletic overall talent.
4) MLB’s marketing promotions reinforced #3 towards majority audience preferences at same time NFL & NBA featured A/A stars as center pieces, thus attracting A/A fan & future athlete attention.
5) NCAA reduction in college baseball scholarships along with tighter academic requirements caused Division I/II coaches to construct rosters oriented towards supplying MLB demand (see item #3) vs much harder, altruistic approach of sourcing A/A talent beyond merely token levels.
6) Costs are an issue for independent development & showcases, but it’s been a much more damaging issue for grass roots teams. Junior & high school team budgets for baseball are miniscule compared to basketball & football overall; especially w/in the inner cities.