Random Cubs Notes and Ramblings

In News And Rumors by andcounting402 Comments

The world won’t end today, but by the 5th inning of tonight’s game, you’ll wish it had.

The Cubs aren’t just modeling themselves after the Red Sox, they’re four years ahead of the curve. They signed a speedy left fielder with diminishing potential to a gaudy longterm contract long before Theo Epstein made it fashionable. (h/t, of course, to Berselius)

The debate over who is faster, The Flash or Superman, once became so heated that it shut down the DC Comics discussion forum. Peace was restored after the argument was rendered moot by Tony Campana

It’s too bad the Cubs aren’t playing at home this weekend. Tom Ricketts could have blamed the empty seats on the Rapture.

RIP Randy Savage.

Since both broadcasting teams remind us three times a game, I don’t think we really have that hard of a time remembering that Starlin Castro is only 21 years old.

I honestly have no idea what to make of Darwin Barney.

Dishonestly, I’m sure Darwin Barney is the second coming of Mickey Morandini.

Keith Moreland could stand to loosen up a bit.

A decent owner would have lowered ticket prices after last season. A lot.

The Cubs used to have a ballgirl named Marla Collins. That was weird.

Arnold Schwarzenegger was governor of California. That’s a lot harder to believe than that he’s the political equivalent of Shawn Kemp.

Bill Buckner is not a broadcaster. He’s Ron Swanson trapped behind a microphone.

Someday, Tony Campana will get lost in the ivy.

The next time the Cubs hold a team meeting they should invite better players.

It might be time to admit that Alfonso Soriano‘s biggest asset is his defense.

Pretty sure Wellington Castillo is just Koyie Hill with thumbs.

What if Rudy Jaramillo really is making the Cubs offense better? How bad could they have been without him?

Len and Bob will be broadcasting a game from the Bud Light Bleachers. They’re actually getting paid to sit there. The Cubs’ best customers must be livid.

Hurry up, Randy Wells.

Take it easy, Andrew Cashner.

Stay away, Kevin Millwood.

Do your thing, Derrick Rose.


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  1. AndCounting

    Every now and then I’m taken aback by the fact that there is a human being alive who instinctively and earnestly says all of this crap without any sense of irony whatsoever.

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  2. AndCounting

    I mean seriously, a guy who is not a professor or mad scientist or super villain or robot actually responds to people’s comments by saying, “Correct.”

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  3. Aisle424

    [quote name=AndCounting]I mean seriously, a guy who is not a professor or mad scientist or super villain or robot actually responds to people’s comments by saying, “Correct.”[/quote]
    That’s a human being you’re talking about.

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  4. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=AndCounting]I mean seriously, a guy who is not a professor or mad scientist or super villain or robot actually responds to people’s comments by saying, “Correct.”[/quote]LSA

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  5. Xoomwaffle

    From last thread:

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]So DeWitt gets an OF start, but Castillo can’t get a start over Wannabe Bob Vila?They can’t find enough at bats to help Colvin get out of his slump?[/quote]
    .

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  6. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Xoomwaffle]From last thread:

    .[/quote]That, too. Quade looooooooooves his gamers.

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  7. AndCounting

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]That, too. Quade looooooooooves his gamers.[/quote]And Hendry loves them too. And Ricketts loves Hendry. And nothing’s going to change anytime soon.

    Let’s see what happens.

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  8. Berselius

    They signed a speedy left fielder with diminishing potential to a gaudy longterm contract long before Theo Epstein made it fashionable. (h/t, of course, to Berselius)

    I love it when other people grind my axe for me. (dying laughing)

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  9. Berselius

    Len and Bob will be broadcasting a game from the Bud Light Bleachers. They’re actually getting paid to sit there. The Cubs’ best customers must be livid.

    AC, you get a free monthly subscription to OV for that one (dying laughing)

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  10. Suburban kid

    [quote name=AndCounting]I mean seriously, a guy who is not a professor or mad scientist or super villain or robot actually responds to people’s comments opinions by saying, “Correct, while responding to facts by saying “I disagree”.[/quote].

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  11. Aisle424

    Sullivan says Garza will be skipped on Sunday due to elbow soreness.

    Gordo says the Cubs hope it will just be one start.

    We’ll see what happens…

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  12. AndCounting

    [quote name=Suburban kid]Garza —————-> scratched from start tomorrow, elbow tightness[/quote]2011 ——-> Possibly not the Cubs’ year

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  13. Aisle424

    [quote name=Berselius]AC, you get a free monthly subscription to OV for that one (dying laughing)[/quote]
    I don’t recall giving this the Supreme Overlord of all Chair-Based Furniture stamp of approval.

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  14. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Suburban kid]Garza —————-> scratched from start tomorrow, elbow tightness[/quote]The Rays bent the Cubs over, stuck it in, and broke it off.

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  15. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=AndCounting]And Hendry loves them too. And Ricketts loves Hendry. And nothing’s going to change anytime soon.

    Let’s see what happens.[/quote]O/U on years it takes for the Rickettses to turn the Cubs into some unholy mashup of the Orioles and the Pirates?

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  16. Xoomwaffle

    [quote name=Berselius]Pat and Zonk for me tonight, thanks to Fox being Fox.[/quote]
    I’m getting the A’s and Giants for some reason…?

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  17. Berselius

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]The Rays bent the Cubs over, stuck it in, and broke it off.[/quote]
    False

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  18. Aisle424

    Wasn’t[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]O/U on years it takes for the Rickettses to turn the Cubs into some unholy mashup of the Orioles and the Pirates?[/quote]
    One.

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  19. Berselius

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Amusing…but wrong.[/quote]

    The Cubs bent the Cubs over, stuck it in, and broke it off.

    fixed

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  20. Mercurial Outfielder

    Hendry (to Rays’ GM): We’d like to trade for Matt Garza.

    Rays’ GM: Go fuck yourself.

    Hendry: Will do.

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  21. mb21

    It might be time to admit that Alfonso Soriano’s biggest asset is his defense.

    (dying laughing) well done, AC.

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  22. mb21

    [quote name=AndCounting]2011 ——-> Possibly not the Cubs’ year[/quote]Yeah, when the only starter who has been worth a shit goes down to injury, you’re not in a good position to contend.

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  23. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=mb21]Yeah, when the only starter who has been worth a shit goes down to injury, you’re not in a good position to contend.[/quote]You’re forgetting the impact of Koyie Hill’s 162.0 iWAR.

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  24. mb21

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]O/U on years it takes for the Rickettses to turn the Cubs into some unholy mashup of the Orioles and the Pirates?[/quote]0

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  25. mb21

    I’m getting the Cubs/Sox. I’ll probably only watch an inning since all I really want to see is the throwbacks. Other than that, I’m not really looking forward to the Cubs getting the shit kicked out of them.

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  26. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Hendry (to Rays’ GM): We’d like to trade for Matt Garza.

    Rays’ GM: Can you give us a better package than KC got for Greinke? And, I’ll need a hand job.

    Hendry: Will do.[/quote]
    fixed

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  27. melissa

    I wonder if Alvin will still claim the Garza deal was win/win if he goes down with a serious injury. Of course he will because he’s always absolutely correct.

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  28. Mercurial Outfielder

    Word out of Hobbiton is that Russell will take Garza’s start. (dying laughing)

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  29. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]I wonder if Alvin will still claim the Garza deal was win/win if he goes down with a serious injury. Of course he will because he’s always absolutely correct.[/quote]I can’t argue with you today.

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  30. Mercurial Outfielder

    Paul Sullivan ————> Not good at this whole spelling thing:

    It’s a new day at Fenway Park, and the Cubs hope to recover from Friday’s trounching at the hands of the Red Sox.

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  31. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Word out of Hobbiton is that Russell will take Garza’s start. (dying laughing)[/quote]
    This really pisses me off. They have claimed their pitching depth in the minors is a strength but they don’t have anyone that can come up and spot start? It’s bullshit.

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  32. Berselius

    [quote name=melissa]This really pisses me off. They have claimed their pitching depth in the minors is a strength but they don’t have anyone that can come up and spot start? It’s bullshit.[/quote]
    3-4 pitchers got injured at the same time (Wells, Cashner, Jackson, McNutt). I don’t have a problem with depth. Guys like Russell are 8th-9th on every team’s depth chart.

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  33. mb21

    [quote name=melissa]This really pisses me off. They have claimed their pitching depth in the minors is a strength but they don’t have anyone that can come up and spot start? It’s bullshit.[/quote]I’m not really sure they do, Melissa: http://statcorner.com/team.php?team=IOW&year=2011&leag=PCL
    http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?t=t_ibp&cid=451&stn=true&sid=t451
    http://statcorner.com/team.php?team=TEN&year=2011&leag=SOU

    Most of those players would have to be added to the roster and the only one who has been any good this year is Trey McNutt and he’s on a pitch count because of blisters.

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  34. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]This really pisses me off. They have claimed their pitching depth in the minors is a strength but they don’t have anyone that can come up and spot start? It’s bullshit.[/quote]

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  35. mb21

    [quote name=Berselius]3-4 pitchers got injured at the same time (Wells, Cashner, Jackson, McNutt). I don’t have a problem with depth. Guys like Russell are 8th-9th on every team’s depth chart.[/quote]Agreed. The Cubs depth is strong. The problem is that everybody got injured at the same time and those not injured haven’t been any good with the exception of Garza who is now injured. (dying laughing)

    No team has a decent pitcher sitting around as their 8th or 9th starter. I’d bet that most teams would be lucky to run out a James Russell at this point.

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  36. mb21

    [quote name=Suburban kid]Can’t wait to hear that this year was because of injuries.[/quote]This year was because of injuries.

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  37. melissa

    [quote name=mb21] I’d bet that most teams would be lucky to run out a James Russell at this point.[/quote]
    Russell is a LOOGY. Why not Sean Marshall? I’m sorry but any minor league starter would be a better option. Russell shouldn’t ever start, unless of course all your other starters have ascended post-rapture.

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  38. mb21

    It’s a good point about Sean Marshall, but I disagree that any other minor league starter should start over Russell. I’d probably go with Carpenter or Dolis, but both of them are bullpen testing.

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  39. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=mb21]It’s a good point about Sean Marshall, but I disagree that any other minor league starter should start over Russell. I’d probably go with Carpenter or Dolis, but both of them are bullpen testing.[/quote]I’d rather have you start than James Russell. (dying laughing)

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  40. Berselius

    [quote name=melissa]Russell is a LOOGY. Why not Sean Marshall? I’m sorry but any minor league starter would be a better option. Russell shouldn’t ever start, unless of course all your other starters have ascended post-rapture.[/quote]
    Yes, this (6 weeks ago)

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  41. Mercurial Outfielder

    When Crane Kenny handed off that baseball last night to be thrown back, I was completely disheartened, because it just seemed so emblematic of the fact that Ricketts and his whole team buy into the worst parts of Cubs lore. They’ll be selling the Loveable Losers before we know it.

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  42. Perkins

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]When Crane Kenny handed off that baseball last night to be thrown back, I was completely disheartened, because it just seemed so emblematic of the fact that Ricketts and his whole team buy into the worst parts of Cubs lore. They’ll be selling the Loveable Losers before we know it.[/quote]
    Winning is for pussies. Just like spending money on payroll.

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  43. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]When Crane Kenny handed off that baseball last night to be thrown back, I was completely disheartened, because it just seemed so emblematic of the fact that Ricketts and his whole team buy into the worst parts of Cubs lore. They’ll be selling the Loveable Losers before we know it.[/quote]
    I was thinking the same thing. You might know the Cubs would have “that guy” as their President and Owner. i actually was thinking it when they first showed the two of them on the Monster together. Ricketts and Crane so want to be noticed.

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  44. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Perkins]Winning is for pussies. Just like spending money on payroll.[/quote]Tom Ricketts would like to hire you.

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  45. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]I was thinking the same thing. You might know the Cubs would have “that guy” as their President and Owner. i actually was thinking it when they first showed the two of them on the Monster together. Ricketts and Crane so want to be noticed.[/quote]And they want to be noticed as “one of the fans.”

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  46. Perkins

    [quote name=melissa]I was thinking the same thing. You might know the Cubs would have “that guy” as their President and Owner. i actually was thinking it when they first showed the two of them on the Monster together. Ricketts and Crane so want to be noticed.[/quote]
    Seriously, Cubs fans are the last people who should own a team. Especially the Cubs.

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  47. Perkins

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Tom Ricketts would like to hire you.[/quote]
    In a couple months, they’ll need to get the guy from Thank You for Smoking to sell people on this team. I’m encouraged that so many people have seen fit not to show up. That worked pretty well at scaring the ownership back in 2006.

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  48. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Perkins]Seriously, Cubs fans are the last people who should own a team. Especially the Cubs.[/quote](dying laughing)

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  49. ACT

    Marshall is definitely better than Russell, but Sean has been so good as a reliever (and was uninspiring as a starter), that it’s hard to blame them for leaving well enough alone.

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  50. melissa

    Truth:
    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]And they want to be noticed as “one of the fans.”[/quote][quote name=Perkins]Seriously, Cubs fans are the last people who should own a team. Especially the Cubs.[/quote]

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  51. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Perkins]In a couple months, they’ll need to get the guy from Thank You for Smoking to sell people on this team. I’m encouraged that so many people have seen fit not to show up. That worked pretty well at scaring the ownership back in 2006.[/quote]I’m not sure Ricketts cares right now. He’s convinced it was weather. June and July will be the real test of resolve for both the fans and Ricketts.

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  52. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=ACT]Marshall is definitely better than Russell, but Sean has been so good as a reliever (and was uninspiring as a starter), that it’s hard to blame them for leaving well enough alone.[/quote]OTOH, it’s not like there’s a lot of use for two setup men on this sadsack team. (dying laughing)

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  53. Aisle424

    [quote name=Perkins]In a couple months, they’ll need to get the guy from Thank You for Smoking to sell people on this team. I’m encouraged that so many people have seen fit not to show up. That worked pretty well at scaring the ownership back in 2006.[/quote]
    It didn’t really “scare” anybody. Zell knew he wan’t keeping the team and he could give a damn. They were falsely raising the value of the team by making runs to the playoffs, selling out the stadium, and raising ticket prices through the roof in order to get the Ricketts to overpay.

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  54. Berselius

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]OTOH, it’s not like there’s a lot of use for two setup men on this sadsack team. (dying laughing)[/quote]
    +1 LSA Rec’d NAMBLA

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  55. melissa

    [quote name=ACT]Marshall is definitely better than Russell, but Sean has been so good as a reliever (and was uninspiring as a starter), that it’s hard to blame them for leaving well enough alone.[/quote]
    If Marshall was “uninspiring” what would you call Russell?
    (dying laughing)

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  56. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Aisle424]It didn’t really “scare” anybody. Zell knew he wan’t keeping the team and he could give a damn. They were falsely raising the value of the team by making runs to the playoffs, selling out the stadium, and raising ticket prices through the roof in order to get the Ricketts to overpay.[/quote]THIS

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  57. Perkins

    [quote name=Aisle424]It didn’t really “scare” anybody. Zell knew he wan’t keeping the team and he could give a damn. They were falsely raising the value of the team by making runs to the playoffs, selling out the stadium, and raising ticket prices through the roof in order to get the Ricketts to overpay.[/quote]
    Fair enough, though if Ricketts intends to own this team for the long haul, then having the park so far below capacity is a poor business model.

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  58. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Perkins]Fair enough, though if Ricketts intends to own this team for the long haul, then having the park so far below capacity is a poor business model.[/quote]I think Ricketts overestimated his ability to keep that park full while keeping payroll tight.

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  59. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I’m not sure Ricketts cares right now. He’s convinced it was weather. June and July will be the real test of resolve for both the fans and Ricketts.[/quote]
    He said with all due conviction on Opening Day that he thought this team had the chance to do something “special.” I imagine the next thing he will convince himself is that the team was derailed by injuries.

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  60. Perkins

    That’s also what’s most galling about all this: with the kind of fan base and revenue the Cubs can bring to bear, there’s no reason that years like 2007 and 2008 should be out of the norm.

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  61. Perkins

    [quote name=melissa]He said with all due conviction on Opening Day that he thought this team had the chance to do something “special.” I imagine the next thing he will convince himself is that the team was derailed by injuries.[/quote]

    They’re special alright. Special Olympics special.

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  62. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]He said with all due conviction on Opening Day that he thought this team had the chance to do something “special.” I imagine the next thing he will convince himself is that the team was derailed by injuries.[/quote]Well, they’ve had a ton of injuries, but I think the point stands. This wasn’t a very good team to begin with.

    I just don’t understand how you can say the season is lost to injuries and still let Quade run out retreads like Hill and Reed instead of letting Castillo and Colvin play.

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  63. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Perkins]That’s also what’s most galling about all this: with the kind of fan base and revenue the Cubs can bring to bear, there’s no reason that years like 2007 and 2008 should be out of the norm.[/quote]Yeah. There’s no reason this team shouldn’t be spending level with NYY and BOS every single year.

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  64. mb21

    Let’s say the Cubs ran Marshall out there. He’ll pitch 2 innings in his first start. Maybe 3. Unless you want to go directly to Wood and Prior to pitch the final 6 to 7 innings, the Cubs are still fucked. Also, James Russell would come in and pitch 3 innings anyway.

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  65. Aisle424

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I think Ricketts overestimated his ability to keep that park full while keeping payroll tight.[/quote]
    Yep. Plus, the attendance will never fall below 26,000 or so because of the season ticket accounts. I bet they burned through it pretty well, but even if they took 40,000 off the list this off-season, they still have about 80,000 left on the wait list. That’s 2 more years of selling out season tickets. That is their main concern.

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  66. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Yeah. There’s no reason this team shouldn’t be spending level with NYY and BOS every single year.[/quote]
    They have no problem pricing their tickets at BOS and NYY levels. This fan base could revolt on Ricketts’ greedy ass in a hurry if this team continues to be shitty and he doesn’t lower prices.

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  67. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Aisle424]Yep. Plus, the attendance will never fall below 26,000 or so because of the season ticket accounts. I bet they burned through it pretty well, but even if they took 40,000 off the list this off-season, they still have about 80,000 left on the wait list. That’s 2 more years of selling out season tickets. That is their main concern.[/quote]And that’s only true if the attrition rate among the STH holds. There’s no impetus for Ricketts to change, especially not when he’s still enjoying his new toy.

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  68. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]They have no problem pricing their tickets at BOS and NYY levels. This fan base could revolt on Ricketts’ greedy ass in a hurry if this team continues to be shitty and he doesn’t lower prices.[/quote]It won’t matter what happens with the bulk of the fans; it’s the STH that matter.

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  69. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]It won’t matter what happens with the bulk of the fans; it’s the STH that matter.[/quote]
    True but I think they’re going to be even more pissed. Are a large majority of those on the waiting list going to want to buy into this shit product? I think they could burn through that wait list quicker than one might think.

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  70. Aisle424

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]It won’t matter what happens with the bulk of the fans; it’s the STH that matter.[/quote]
    Correct. 🙂

    As much as they are concerned about the no-shows and all that, the biggest concern is getting the 26,000 ST seats to be 100% sold again next year, and they almost assuredly will be.

    100 losses might do something to upset that apple cart, but otherwise it WILL get pinned on injuries. Which, in a way, is part of the problem, but it’s not like the team was winning all the games pitched by Dempster, Z and Garza before this. The offense still sucks and that isn’t because of injury and the defense absolutely blows and that isn’t because of injury.

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  71. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=mb21]Let’s say the Cubs ran Marshall out there. He’ll pitch 2 innings in his first start. Maybe 3. Unless you want to go directly to Wood and Prior to pitch the final 6 to 7 innings, the Cubs are still fucked. Also, James Russell would come in and pitch 3 innings anyway.[/quote]Yeah, at this point, it won’t make a huge difference.

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  72. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]True but I think they’re going to be even more pissed. Are a large majority of those on the waiting list going to want to buy into this shit product? I think they could burn through that wait list quicker than one might think.[/quote]Perhaps. I don’t see it happening, though. I think Tim is right. It’ll be at elast two years before there’s a real ticket-selling crisis.

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  73. melissa

    I would also argue that with their limited ad space in the park that they’re more reliant on the revenue generated by concessions and people actually showing up. They need those butts in the seats to generate additional revenue and it’s also why they want a triangle building and expanded bar/restaurant options in the park.

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  74. Aisle424

    [quote name=melissa]True but I think they’re going to be even more pissed. Are a large majority of those on the waiting list going to want to buy into this shit product? I think they could burn through that wait list quicker than one might think.[/quote]
    I used to think that too, but until you actually spend the money and watch it burn away with no real value from it, you don;t understand how pointless owning Cubs season tickets are while they suck. Cubs fans are wired to believe that THIS COULD BE THE YEAR! and they want in. They want to be the ones with seats to the World Series while everyone else is paying tens of thousands to get into the ballpark because they didn’t have faith. Almost everybody on that waitlist believes that to some extent and until you are burned, the brain can justify almost any expenditure, no matter how foolish it might be. I expect that wait list has at least 2 more absolutely dismal seasons left before it completely evaporates.

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  75. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]I would also argue that with their limited ad space in the park that they’re more reliant on the revenue generated by concessions and people actually showing up. They need those butts in the seats to generate additional revenue and it’s also why they want a triangle building and expanded bar/restaurant options in the park.[/quote]That’s true to some extent. I wish Ricketts would start to maximize the use of ad space.

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  76. Mercurial Outfielder

    Cubs fans are wired to believe that THIS COULD BE THE YEAR! and they want in. They want to be the ones with seats to the World Series while everyone else is paying tens of thousands to get into the ballpark because they didn’t have faith. Almost everybody on that waitlist believes that to some extent and until you are burned, the brain can justify almost any expenditure, no matter how foolish it might be.

    And if Crane and Tommy Boy are good at anything, it’s at tapping into exactly this sentiment.

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  77. Aisle424

    [quote name=melissa]I would also argue that with their limited ad space in the park that they’re more reliant on the revenue generated by concessions and people actually showing up. They need those butts in the seats to generate additional revenue and it’s also why they want a triangle building and expanded bar/restaurant options in the park.[/quote]
    I don’t think concession are that big a piece of their revenue because they have to share so much of it with the third party that provides the services. They get a little more by selling stuff like bison dogs where they have a financial interest, but that doesn’t technically stay in the Cubs’ finances, so it only helps if the family’s finances are fairly fluid with the Cubs’.

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  78. Aisle424

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]And if Crane and Tommy Boy are good at anything, it’s at tapping into exactly this sentiment.[/quote]
    Exactly. It’s starting to show, but there is still SO MUCH blind loyalty out there. It’s amazing. The Cubs are like a fucking cult.

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  79. Perkins

    [quote name=Aisle424]I used to think that too, but until you actually spend the money and watch it burn away with no real value from it, you don;t understand how pointless owning Cubs season tickets are while they suck. Cubs fans are wired to believe that THIS COULD BE THE YEAR! and they want in. They want to be the ones with seats to the World Series while everyone else is paying tens of thousands to get into the ballpark because they didn’t have faith. Almost everybody on that waitlist believes that to some extent and until you are burned, the brain can justify almost any expenditure, no matter how foolish it might be. I expect that wait list has at least 2 more absolutely dismal seasons left before it completely evaporates.[/quote]
    It’s especially absurd considering how easy it is to get around the virtual waiting room. I got NLCS tickets in 2007 and NLDS tickets in 2008 with no problems.

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  80. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Aisle424]Exactly. It’s starting to show, but there is still SO MUCH blind loyalty out there. It’s amazing. The Cubs are like a fucking cult.[/quote]Yep. And the longer the drought goes on, the more lucrative that chance to be there when it ends becomes. It’s a strange phenomenon. It’s almost as if it’s in the interest of the owners to never do enough to actually win the WS.

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  81. melissa

    Ricketts also invested in a rooftop because they believe people are going to show up. A lot of the Wrigley experience relies on people actually showing up. A424, I totally get what you’re saying about people wanting to believe but I think that’s going to change because of the failure in 08 and a bad economy. People seem to be more of the mind that the Cubs need to prove it. I haven’t heard nearly the mindless optimism in the majority of Cubs fans over the last 3 seasons. I think after seeing the Sox win and coming up short, Cubs fans expectations have actually risen.

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  82. Suburban kid

    I joined that waiting list in 2006 and I was around 18000, but now I’m only 15052. I think they fuck around with the numbers. I bet they have burned through tens of thousands since 2009. I was one of about 90000 people that had no real intention of ever buying ST. We just had internet access and some time on our hands one day.

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  83. Aisle424

    [quote name=Perkins]It’s especially absurd considering how easy it is to get around the virtual waiting room. I got NLCS tickets in 2007 and NLDS tickets in 2008 with no problems.[/quote]
    Really? I couldn’t get extras when I tried.

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  84. Perkins

    [quote name=melissa]Ricketts also invested in a rooftop because they believe people are going to show up. A lot of the Wrigley experience relies on people actually showing up. A424, I totally get what you’re saying about people wanting to believe but I think that’s going to change because of the failure in 08 and a bad economy. People seem to be more of the mind that the Cubs need to prove it. I haven’t heard nearly the mindless optimism in the majority of Cubs fans over the last 3 seasons. I think after seeing the Sox win and coming up short, Cubs fans expectations have actually risen.[/quote]
    I think that also has a lot to do with how shitty so many Cubs fans have become. Maybe I just didn’t notice it for years while still in the cave, but I feel like players used to have a much higher opinion of Cubs fans and Wrigley Field.

    I think it’s great that Cubs fans have become more demanding of success, and seem to be hanging onto their wallets when it doesn’t happen; I just wish they hadn’t also become huge assholes in the process.

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  85. Suburban kid

    [quote name=Aisle424]Really? I couldn’t get extras when I tried.[/quote]I had the same as Perkins in 2007, too bad they were useless.

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  86. Perkins

    [quote name=Aisle424]Really? I couldn’t get extras when I tried.[/quote]
    Yeah, if you open as many windows as your browser will allow to the VWR, you can score tickets pretty easily. I wasn’t able to get DS for 2007, but I got LCS. Not that those did me any good other than being a cool souvenir.

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  87. Aisle424

    [quote name=melissa]Ricketts also invested in a rooftop because they believe people are going to show up. A lot of the Wrigley experience relies on people actually showing up. A424, I totally get what you’re saying about people wanting to believe but I think that’s going to change because of the failure in 08 and a bad economy. People seem to be more of the mind that the Cubs need to prove it. I haven’t heard nearly the mindless optimism in the majority of Cubs fans over the last 3 seasons. I think after seeing the Sox win and coming up short, Cubs fans expectations have actually risen.[/quote]
    Not here online, I’d agree with that, Melissa. But there are still people who take pride in suffering with this team. They can’t wait to tell you their story about how they sat in the bleachers eating baloney sandwiches for 40 years while hoping that this would be the year.

    I went to that season ticket appreciation day last year and thought I’d see some fucking pissed off people. Nope. Just people who wanted to have their picture taken with Ricketts. I thought the Convention would be pissier. Nope.

    They may not be making the trek to the ballpark, and they may not be finding people to take their tickets when they can’t go, but for some reason they have figured that into their equation for how much suffering they can endure.

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  88. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Perkins]I think that also has a lot to do with how shitty so many Cubs fans have become. Maybe I just didn’t notice it for years while still in the cave, but I feel like players used to have a much higher opinion of Cubs fans and Wrigley Field.

    I think it’s great that Cubs fans have become more demanding of success, and seem to be hanging onto their wallets when it doesn’t happen; I just wish they hadn’t also become huge assholes in the process.[/quote]If that’s had any impact on ticket sales, it’s likely been minimal. Which is regrettable. But if I’ve learned anything over last two years, it’s that people are far more tolerant of crass and offensive behavior than they are of those who have the fortitude to decry and act against such behavior.

    Bottom line: people fucking suck.

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  89. Perkins

    [quote name=Aisle424]Not here online, I’d agree with that, Melissa. But there are still people who take pride in suffering with this team. They can’t wait to tell you their story about how they sat in the bleachers eating baloney sandwiches for 40 years while hoping that this would be the year.

    I went to that season ticket appreciation day last year and thought I’d see some fucking pissed off people. Nope. Just people who wanted to have their picture taken with Ricketts. I thought the Convention would be pissier. Nope.

    They may not be making the trek to the ballpark, and they may not be finding people to take their tickets when they can’t go, but for some reason they have figured that into their equation for how much suffering they can endure.[/quote]
    Do you think they’ll figure out that it was just baseball once the Cubs win a World Series? I feel like the thrill is in the chase for the people you’re describing.

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  90. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Suburban kid]No way the Sox’s unis were that white in 1918.[/quote]But the team sure was.

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  91. Perkins

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]If that’s had any impact on ticket sales, it’s likely been minimal. Which is regrettable. But if I’ve learned anything voer last two years, it’s the people are far more tolerant of crass and offensive behavior than they are of those who have to fortitude to decry and act against such behavior.

    Bottom line: people fucking suck.[/quote]
    Amen. Cubs fans have a way of feeding my misanthropy. At least since about 2009.

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  92. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Perkins]Do you think they’ll figure out that it was just baseball once the Cubs win a World Series? I feel like the thrill is in the chase for the people you’re describing.[/quote]ccd and I had a conversation before I left town and he speculated that Ricketts knew this and was intending to exploit it.

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  93. melissa

    [quote name=Aisle424]Not here online, I’d agree with that, Melissa. But there are still people who take pride in suffering with this team. They can’t wait to tell you their story about how they sat in the bleachers eating baloney sandwiches for 40 years while hoping that this would be the year.

    I went to that season ticket appreciation day last year and thought I’d see some fucking pissed off people. Nope. Just people who wanted to have their picture taken with Ricketts. I thought the Convention would be pissier. Nope.

    They may not be making the trek to the ballpark, and they may not be finding people to take their tickets when they can’t go, but for some reason they have figured that into their equation for how much suffering they can endure.[/quote]
    I don’t doubt this one bit. But there is also a group of people who are “core” fans, who’ve been jumping ship. There will always be the kind of fans you describe, I just think there are less of them now. I also believe that there are fewer young fans coming up that are going to replace the overly optimistic.

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  94. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Suburban kid]36 lineups in 44 games.[/quote]Let’s See What Happens.

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  95. Suburban kid

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]ccd and I had a conversation before I left town and he speculated that Ricketts knew this and was intending to exploit it.[/quote]THat would explain why he’s not fazed by an empty park, I guess.

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  96. Perkins

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]ccd and I had a conversation before I left town and he speculated that Ricketts knew this and was intending to exploit it.[/quote]
    That’s a frightening prospect. I’ve taken to downloading games from 2008 because outside of Garza, this team isn’t worth watching.

    That and because my bandwidth is shit in Afghanistan.

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  97. Aisle424

    [quote name=Perkins]Do you think they’ll figure out that it was just baseball once the Cubs win a World Series? I feel like the thrill is in the chase for the people you’re describing.[/quote]
    I think they will. They’ll stick around while the Cubs are still good, however long that would last, but the leash will get shorter. Which is weird, but I don’t think I’m wrong.

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  98. Suburban kid

    As shitty as Koyie is, I think he was rightly arguing that the ball knocked his glove off, not the bat.

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  99. mb21

    Maybe it’s been said already, but isn’t concession sales a big issue as well with all these no-shows? The Cubs are also getting far fewer viewers on television, which makes advertisers less interested in advertising. There’s also the issue that less interest makes the Cubs worth less money on television altogether.

    The Cubs may be fine as far as season ticket sales go, but everything else is declining and that’s going to hit them in a big way.

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  100. Aisle424

    [quote name=mb21]Maybe it’s been said already, but isn’t concession sales a big issue as well with all these no-shows? The Cubs are also getting far fewer viewers on television, which makes advertisers less interested in advertising. There’s also the issue that less interest makes the Cubs worth less money on television altogether.

    The Cubs may be fine as far as season ticket sales go, but everything else is declining and that’s going to hit them in a big way.[/quote]
    I don;t think concessions are as big a deal because the percentage they keep is so small anyway, but the TV ratings are a big deal, especially if they want to start their own NESN or YES-like network.

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  101. melissa

    [quote name=mb21]Maybe it’s been said already, but isn’t concession sales a big issue as well with all these no-shows? The Cubs are also getting far fewer viewers on television, which makes advertisers less interested in advertising. There’s also the issue that less interest makes the Cubs worth less money on television altogether.

    The Cubs may be fine as far as season ticket sales go, but everything else is declining and that’s going to hit them in a big way.[/quote]
    I brought up concession sales but yes, the local tv ad revenue will go down when ratings drop. No question.

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  102. Perkins

    [quote name=mb21]Maybe it’s been said already, but isn’t concession sales a big issue as well with all these no-shows? The Cubs are also getting far fewer viewers on television, which makes advertisers less interested in advertising. There’s also the issue that less interest makes the Cubs worth less money on television altogether.

    The Cubs may be fine as far as season ticket sales go, but everything else is declining and that’s going to hit them in a big way.[/quote]
    So you’re being optimistic for once? (dying laughing)

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  103. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Suburban kid]As shitty as Koyie is, I think he was rightly arguing that the ball knocked his glove off, not the bat.[/quote]
    I guess it’s possible. Would have to see the replay again to be sure, but I thought the bat hit his glove.

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  104. mb21

    [quote name=Aisle424]I don;t think concessions are as big a deal because the percentage they keep is so small anyway, but the TV ratings are a big deal, especially if they want to start their own NESN or YES-like network.[/quote]Good point about how concessions are shared so it won’t hurt the Cubs much. I see the loss of any significant money as being a huge issue for Ricketts considering the debt.

    I’d also say that 26,000 season ticket holders will soon decline. Think back to the 80s and 90s. At what point did season ticket sales go through the roof? Late 90s when Sammy Sosa started hitting home runs and the Cubs contended in 1998, 2001 and then again in 2003? That’s what I think based on the attendance figures I remember, but I could be wrong.

    Winning brings people to the stadium. Cubs fans are already fairly pissed off and if they lose 90 or more as I expect they will, I think a lot of people give up their season tickets. I think we’ll see the number of season tickets sold begin to decline significantly after this season.

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  105. mb21

    [quote name=Perkins]So you’re being optimistic for once? (dying laughing)[/quote]I’m an optimistic kind of guy. That’s just who I am.

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  106. Suburban kid

    [quote name=melissa]Enough with the Koyie bashing, don’t make MB get out his spreadsheets. (dying laughing)[/quote]No offense to Mr. 21, but the Red Sox have run on him three times in 9 innings. I don’t know what the league average in attempts is.

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  107. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Suburban kid]No offense to Mr. 21, but the Red Sox have run on him three times in 9 inning. I don’t know what the league average in attempts is.[/quote]To make matters worse, they make a table saw sound when they do it.

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  108. mb21

    [quote name=Suburban kid]No offense to Mr. 21, but the Red Sox have run on him three times in 9 innings. I don’t know what the league average in attempts is.[/quote]I think there are two reasons for this. One, Hill hasn’t been throwing as well as he has in the past. Two, Starlin Castro has zero percent chance of tagging anybody out at 2nd base and that’s if he catches the throw. Prince Fielder could steal on the Cubs.

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  109. Mercurial Outfielder

    This Starlin Castro can’t tag people thing is the most ridiculous line of player criticism I’ve heard in a long time.

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  110. mb21

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Just out of curiosity, how many “catchers interference” errors did Soto have pre-DL?[/quote]I doubt he had any. Those are rare.

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  111. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Just out of curiosity, how many “catchers interference” errors did Soto have pre-DL?[/quote]I remember a couple last season. Why?

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  112. melissa

    [quote name=mb21]I think there are two reasons for this. One, Hill hasn’t been throwing as well as he has in the past. Two, Starlin Castro has zero percent chance of tagging anybody out at 2nd base and that’s if he catches the throw. Prince Fielder could steal on the Cubs.[/quote]
    Barney couldn’t catch his shitty throw earlier in the game either. I’ll cut him slack for last night though because Davis is soooo fucking slow to the plate.

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  113. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I remember a couple last season. Why?[/quote]
    It just seemed weird that Koyie gets tagged with those abnormally frequently compared to other catchers. Probably just my small sample sizing though.

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  114. mb21

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]This Starlin Castro can’t tag people thing is the most ridiculous line of player criticism I’ve heard in a long time.[/quote]MO, when he fields a ball from the catcher he’s either 3 feet in front of the base, on his knees and unable to hold onto as he turns around to tag the runner in his face or he simply can’t hold onto the ball.

    I’m not the only one to point this out. Other team’s announcers have mentioned it at least a couple times that I remember this season as well as several times last year. Bob Brenly has mentioned it several times this year as well.

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  115. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Rice Cube]It just seemed weird that Koyie gets tagged with those abnormally frequently compared to other catchers. Probably just my small sample sizing though.[/quote]Does Koyie sit further up than other catchers? I know players bitch about Pierzynski doing that.

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  116. Suburban kid

    At least, it seemed like it went off the very edge of the earflap and then into his eye socket, although maybe just the spot right next to the eye.

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  117. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=mb21]MO, when he fields a ball from the catcher he’s either 3 feet in front of the base, on his knees and unable to hold onto as he turns around to tag the runner in his face or he simply can’t hold onto the ball.

    I’m not the only one to point this out. Other team’s announcers have mentioned it at least a couple times that I remember this season as well as several times last year. Bob Brenly has mentioned it several times this year as well.[/quote]
    And I imagine the 2-3 time it happens each week makes a huge difference. It’s minor and it’s coachable. Although the fielding the ball too far in front of the bag is wierd, because Theriot and Fontenot used to do the same thing. Does Barney do this, too?

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  118. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Suburban kid]At least, it seemed like it went off the very edge of the earflap and then into his eye socket, although maybe just the spot right next to the eye.[/quote]Did he stay in the game?

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  119. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Does Koyie sit further up than other catchers? I know players bitch about Pierzynski doing that.[/quote]
    I don’t think he was sitting further up but his glove looked like it stuck out a bit too far. No replay yet.

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  120. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Suburban kid]At least, it seemed like it went off the very edge of the earflap and then into his eye socket, although maybe just the spot right next to the eye.[/quote]
    I think that’s why they decided to check him out right away among other reasons. Eye injuries are scary.

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  121. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Did he stay in the game?[/quote]
    They immediately ushered him to the clubhouse. He was kicking his feet in the air when he went down it was very bizarre sight.

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  122. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Berselius]Even if it’s a mild concussion he’ll be DLed. They don’t fuck around with concussions[/quote]
    The 7-day concussion DL was implemented this year right?

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  123. Suburban kid

    [quote name=Berselius]Even if it’s a mild concussion he’ll be DLed. They don’t fuck around with concussions[/quote]Yeah. Colvin can come back and sit on the bench some more.

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  124. melissa

    As far as Castro catching the throw from the catcher, I think he’s done pretty well at staying on the bag. He seems to have problems when he moves his glove back towards the runner before he has caught the ball. It’s like he reaches back in an attempt to catch the ball closer to the runner rather than catching it and then feeling for the runner. He seems to try to catch and tag simultaneously.

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  125. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Rice Cube]The 7-day concussion DL was implemented this year right?[/quote]I think so.

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  126. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Berselius]Clearly this means that Reed Johnson will ascend to his rightful place as Captain of Outfielding and Excellence[/quote]
    Gamer’d

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  127. AndCounting

    The thing about Byrd was that as soon as he got up, he basically pointed to his eye and started telling the trainer exactly what was wrong. I don’t know if he couldn’t see or if he felt the bone break or what, but he knew something was wrong and that he was coming out of the game. He didn’t seem dazed, but he showed no intentions of walking down to first base and staying in the game.

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  128. Aisle424

    [quote name=AndCounting]The thing about Byrd was that as soon as he got up, he basically pointed to his eye and started telling the trainer exactly what was wrong. I don’t know if he couldn’t see or if he felt the bone break or what, but he knew something was wrong and that he was coming out of the game. He didn’t seem dazed, but he showed no intentions of walking down to first base and staying in the game.[/quote]
    That just means he’s not a gamer.

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  129. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=AndCounting]The thing about Byrd was that as soon as he got up, he basically pointed to his eye and started telling the trainer exactly what was wrong. I don’t know if he couldn’t see or if he felt the bone break or what, but he knew something was wrong and that he was coming out of the game. He didn’t seem dazed, but he showed no intentions of walking down to first base and staying in the game.[/quote]Yeah, that’s not good. I really hope he’s okay. Orbital fractures can mess you up for good.

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  130. Berselius

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Yeah, that’s not good. I really hope he’s okay. Orbital fractures can mess you up for good.[/quote]
    Juan Encarnacion agrees

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  131. melissa

    They said that there was no beer in a can until 1935. Why would this be a problem, it had to have been available in bottles.

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  132. mb21

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]And I imagine the 2-3 time it happens each week makes a huge difference. It’s minor and it’s coachable. Although the fielding the ball too far in front of the bag is wierd, because Theriot and Fontenot used to do the same thing. Does Barney do this, too?[/quote]I’m not saying it makes a huge difference. It’s not that hard to go to the base and wait for the throw. Yes, he’s young and blah blah blah. Who cares? He’s been in the league for a year now. I never said it was a huge problem. I said it’s part of why Koyie Hill and Geovany Soto can’t throw anybody out.

    I have no idea why Theriot and Castro do that. It’s especially odd considering they were coached to not do that by one of the best shortstops. I don’t get it, but it pissed me off when Theriot did it and it pisses me off when Castro does it. It’s as dumb as running to 3rd base after you hit a ground ball.

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  133. Suburban kid

    [quote name=melissa]They said that there was no beer in a can until 1935. Why would this be a problem, it had to have been available in bottles.[/quote]Because these guys are boring ass clowns.

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  134. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Suburban kid]Because these guys are boring ass clowns.[/quote]My friend just texted me the following line from Vasgersian:

    “If you close your eyes and look at the Red Sox’ uniforms…”

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  135. Suburban kid

    ALso, I believe families used to source their beer by the bucket from their local tavern in those days. Not sure how they sold it in ballparks. Giant troughs?

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  136. mb21

    [quote name=Suburban kid]I agree that Casto has been bad with the SB tags, but I also agree that this can be fixed.[/quote]I agree as well and said the same last night. I don’t see any reason it can’t be, but at the same time it’s been going on for more than a year now. It’s not like it’s hard to fix the problem. it shouldn’t even be a problem to begin with. This is something you make sure every damn shortstop in the minor leagues knows how to do properly.

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  137. Suburban kid

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]My friend just texted me the following line from Vasgersian:

    “If you close your eyes and look at the Red Sox’ uniforms…”[/quote](dying laughing), I heard that gem earlier.

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  138. mb21

    [quote name=AndCounting]The thing about Byrd was that as soon as he got up, he basically pointed to his eye and started telling the trainer exactly what was wrong. I don’t know if he couldn’t see or if he felt the bone break or what, but he knew something was wrong and that he was coming out of the game. He didn’t seem dazed, but he showed no intentions of walking down to first base and staying in the game.[/quote]Could have been Byrd just being smart about the whole thing. We won’t know for a day or so, but I think he goes on the DL. I just hope it’s not something serious like what Encarnacion had.

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  139. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Suburban kid]Runners at first and third with two outs, I think I can safely turn off the TV.[/quote]
    Shut you right up.

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  140. mb21

    [quote name=Suburban kid]Runners at first and third with two outs, I think I can safely turn off the TV.[/quote]I can go out and clean up the yard after the hail we just got and tornado warning was just lifted. We just planted a new tree. I’m sure it’s fucked.

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  141. melissa

    [quote name=mb21]Any word on Byrd?[/quote]
    They are sending him to the hospital but he has remained conscious.

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  142. Rice Cube

    [quote name=mb21]Is the Byrd still the word?[/quote]
    This would be funnier if it weren’t possible that he has an eye injury or a concussion.

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  143. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Koyie hit that on a line though. Almost went over Drew’s head (dying laughing)[/quote]Only because he was playing halfway to 1B because Slappy McTablesaw was up.

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  144. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Two hours in and we’re only in the top of the fifth.[/quote]Red Sox games are ridiculous.

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  145. Rice Cube

    From Peoria Chiefs:

    Clinton gets a hr on 1st pitch of the 5th. Simpson gets 2 outs and is done for the day 4.2ip, 3h, 3r, 2bb, 5k Chiefs down 3-1 Jokisch in

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  146. Rice Cube

    [quote name=melissa]It’s too bad they couldn’t have taken Koyie out of the lineup for the DH instead of Z.[/quote]
    (dying laughing)

    I had this thought before the game…they could’ve had DeWitt playing catcher and Z batting for himself (dying laughing)

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  147. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]Z thought there were 3 outs when there were only 2. Dispatch from Hobbiton in 3,2,1….[/quote]He’ll have to get his inadequate penis back in his pants first.

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  148. melissa

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Does Z go out for the 6th?[/quote]
    With Mike “one more inning is never too much” Quade at the helm, Let’s See What Happens.

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  149. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]He’ll have to get his inadequate penis back in his pants first.[/quote]
    (dying laughing)
    (dying laughing)
    (dying laughing)
    It may be perfectly adequate for tiny little lady hobbits.

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  150. mb21

    106 pitches for Zambrano through 5. So he’s walked a lot of guys. Nope. Just 2. Well, he’s struckout a shitload. Huh-uh. Just one. He’s only hit one batter and given up a hit per inning. Seems impossible to throw that many pitches without walking or striking out a lot.

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  151. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=mb21]106 pitches for Zambrano through 5. So he’s walked a lot of guys. Nope. Just 2. Well, he’s struckout a shitload. Huh-uh. Just one. He’s only hit one batter and given up a hit per inning. Seems impossible to throw that many pitches without walking or striking out a lot.[/quote]He’s throwing lots of strikes, and the Red Sox are fouling off everything. His location has been shit, though.

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  152. mb21

    [quote name=Rice Cube]BoSox are #2 in the majors in OBP…I guess that would translate to lots of pitches seen.[/quote]Which is why the Red Sox games are so long.

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  153. Rice Cube

    [quote name=mb21]Which is why the Red Sox games are so long.[/quote]

    I can’t argue with you today.

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  154. mb21

    That wasn’t really a hit and run since it was a full count and there were 2 outs, but I don’t know why he didn’t swing at that.

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  155. melissa

    [quote name=mb21]That wasn’t really a hit and run since it was a full count and there were 2 outs, but I don’t know why he didn’t swing at that.[/quote]
    1 out. It was strike ’em out, throw ’em out double play. It was a hit and run and it was a pitch right down the middle. Dumb

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  156. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]What the Fuck? The Gamer takes strike 3 on the hit and run? It’s a way of [L]ife[/quote]He stared at three straight hittable pitches. (dying laughing) What a fucking terrible AB.

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  157. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]1 out. It was strike ’em out, throw ’em out double play. It was a hit and run and it was a pitch right down the middle. Dumb[/quote]Hey, that’s a gamer you’re talking about.

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  158. mb21

    [quote name=melissa]1 out. It was strike ’em out, throw ’em out double play. It was a hit and run and it was a pitch right down the middle. Dumb[/quote](dying laughing) I’m an idiot. I guess Hobbiton is going to be writing about how I forgot the number of outs too. Or that I didn’t see the throw to 2nd base.

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  159. Berselius

    [quote name=melissa]What the Fuck? The Gamer takes strike 3 on the hit and run? It’s a way of [L]ife[/quote]
    Yet another missed sign via DeJesus?

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  160. Berselius

    [quote name=Carrie Muskat]Quade went to mound to remind Zambrano that they don’t have a starter for Sunday.[/quote]
    .

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  161. melissa

    [quote name=Berselius]Yet another missed sign via DeJesus?[/quote]
    I can’t blame DeJesus when the batter takes strike 3 right down the heart of the plate with a full count. Even if he missed a sign or it wasn’t given he has to swing at the damn pitch.

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  162. mb21

    Quade went to mound to remind Zambrano that they don’t have a starter for Sunday.

    And that’s Zambrano’s fault?

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  163. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Berselius].[/quote]
    I figured that was part of the reason why, but if Marshall was warmed up anyway, might as well let him pitch.

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  164. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]I can’t blame DeJesus when the batter takes strike 3 right down the heart of the plate with a full count. Even if he missed a sign or it wasn’t given he has to swing at the damn pitch.[/quote]Exactly. Reed is just an idiot. (dying laughing)

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  165. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=mb21]There’s no way Muskat could have known what was said. I’m guessing he asked if Z could get one more.[/quote]Oh, yeah. I was joking around.

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  166. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Exactly. Reed is just an idiot. (dying laughing)[/quote]
    Pretty sad when he stands out in a sea of them. (dying laughing)

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  167. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=melissa]Pretty sad when he stands out in a sea of them. (dying laughing)[/quote]I guess that explains the facial hair.

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  168. Mercurial Outfielder

    Another SB. The Red Sox have no respect for the Cubs’ ability to keep them at 1B.

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  169. Rice Cube

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Another SB. The Red Sox have no respect for the Cubs’ ability to keep them at 1B.[/quote]
    That was a smart one. Koyie probably throws it into CF and the run scores…maybe even if the throw weren’t an error. Koyie was smart to keep the ball in his pocket.

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  170. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Rice Cube]That was a smart one. Koyie probably throws it into CF and the run scores…maybe even if the throw weren’t an error. Koyie was smart to keep the ball in his pocket.[/quote]Fair enough. Still, the Red Sox are running at will.

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  171. mb21

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Fair enough. Still, the Red Sox are running at will.[/quote]The Padres announcers earlier this season said that was the team’s plan against the Cubs. That was when Soto was still behind the plate, but teams obviously are looking at the Cubs for one reason or another and they’re going to run every chance they get.

    This is information that I wish Len and Bob would talk about. They know it just as well as the other team’s announcers do. Why wouldn’t they say it? It’s clear that every team the Cubs have played this season has run every chance they got regardless of who was behind the plate.

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  172. melissa

    [quote name=Rice Cube]For Koyie? Sure.[/quote]
    For DeWitt. It’s 7th inning, you are behind and it’s a lefty/lefty match-up. It’s not like you have to save Baker for a double switch or some such.

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  173. melissa

    [quote name=Berselius]My favorite curveball in baseball. How does he look, people with television coverage?[/quote]
    He looked good vs. DeWitt. His delivery seems lower and more side-armed than it used to be.

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  174. Rice Cube

    [quote name=melissa]For DeWitt. It’s 7th inning, you are behind and it’s a lefty/lefty match-up. It’s not like you have to save Baker for a double switch or some such.[/quote]
    Yeah I know, was being snarky.

    Baker’s played OF before so that would make sense, but you forget that Mike Quade is a genius.

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  175. mb21

    I always like Marshall’s curve better. I remember an article Baseball Analysts did looking at Pitch f/x about which curveball was the best in baseball. The Cubs had 3 of the top 5 at the time in Marshall (best in baseball), Hill (2nd best) and Lilly (5th best).

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  176. melissa

    [quote name=Rice Cube]Yeah I know, was being snarky.

    Baker’s played OF before so that would make sense, but you forget never knew that Mike Quade is a genius.[/quote]
    Corrected for correctness

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  177. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=mb21]The Padres announcers earlier this season said that was the team’s plan against the Cubs. That was when Soto was still behind the plate, but teams obviously are looking at the Cubs for one reason or another and they’re going to run every chance they get.

    This is information that I wish Len and Bob would talk about. They know it just as well as the other team’s announcers do. Why wouldn’t they say it? It’s clear that every team the Cubs have played this season has run every chance they got regardless of who was behind the plate.[/quote]
    Len & Bob are just not that good. Bob is among the dumbest humans ever to cast a shadow on a planet rendered a bit more unfortunate by his existence, and Len, for all his lip service to stats, is really just a talking head. He doesn’t really do a good job of describing the game, and he doesn’t seem to be able to give anything mroe than canned stats. There’s no in-depth analysis at all in the booth.

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  178. mb21

    He’s definitely throwing much more from the side than before. He’s in between three-quarters and side-arm. He’s not a submariner, which most people think of as sidearmers, but he pitches from the side.

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  179. mb21

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Len & Bob are just not that good. Bob is among the dumbest humans ever to cast a shadow on a planet rendered a bit more unfortunate by his existence, and Len, for all his lip service to stats, is really just a talking head. He doesn’t really do a good job of describing the game, and he doesn’t seem to be able to give anything mroe than canned stats. There’s no in-depth analysis at all in the booth.[/quote]Agreed. it just seems to me that one of the easiest things for them to do is tell us something that every other team’s announcers is telling their fans. Seriously, every other team’s fans who play the Cubs know their team is going to run wild. I only remember the Padres broadcast because they highlighted it before the game and then brought it up several times when they got a runner on base.

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  180. Rice Cube

    Rich Hill isn’t fair. Going from a mid-70s curve to a 91-mph fastball. Kosuke saw all curveballs. That pitch is ridiculous.

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  181. Mercurial Outfielder

    Fukudome never had a chance in that AB. LHP with a hook like Hill’s are an instant out for Fukudome.

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  182. melissa

    [quote name=mb21]He’s not a submariner, which most people think of as sidearmers, but he pitches from the side.[/quote]
    Is that like a misting station?

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  183. mb21

    I was watching women’s college softball for little bit around 11 am today. I was watching Michigan and Kentucky. Then I turned the TV on at about 5:30 and Michigan was playing the 2nd game of the day. They had the same pitcher on the mound. She started both games and completed both of the. I know that throwing underhand doesn’t put the stress on the arm that overhand does, but holy shit, that’s a lot of work. She had to be exhausted.

    Michigan had a left-handed catcher for both games. I’d never seen that before.

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  184. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=mb21]Agreed. it just seems to me that one of the easiest things for them to do is tell us something that every other team’s announcers is telling their fans. Seriously, every other team’s fans who play the Cubs know their team is going to run wild. I only remember the Padres broadcast because they highlighted it before the game and then brought it up several times when they got a runner on base.[/quote]The Cubs ought to just simulcast the Hughes-Moreland booth. Moreland’s a bit rough, but that guy can break down an AB like nobody’s business and Hughes is really adept at describing the game, even if he does make every routine flyball sound like a moonshot. (dying laughing)

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  185. Berselius

    [quote name=mb21]I was watching women’s college softball for little bit around 11 am today. I was watching Michigan and Kentucky. Then I turned the TV on at about 5:30 and Michigan was playing the 2nd game of the day. They had the same pitcher on the mound. She started both games and completed both of the. I know that throwing underhand doesn’t put the stress on the arm that overhand does, but holy shit, that’s a lot of work. She had to be exhausted.

    Michigan had a left-handed catcher for both games. I’d never seen that before.[/quote]
    On a vaguely related note Keith Law has ranted many times about the Rice baseball coach abusing the shit out of his pitchers’ arms.

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  186. Berselius

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]The Cubs ought to just simulcast the Hughes-Moreland booth. Moreland’s a bit rough, but that guy can break down an AB like nobody’s business and Hughes is really adept at describing the game, even if he does make every routine flyball sound like a moonshot. (dying laughing)[/quote]
    Buy mlb.tv – you can do it

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  187. Rice Cube

    [quote name=melissa]Aramis over-running that ball should definitely make the blooper highlight reel.[/quote]
    I think that one changed directions on him. I don’t think Ramirez is THAT bad.

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  188. melissa

    [quote name=Rice Cube]I think that one changed directions on him. I don’t think Ramirez is THAT bad.[/quote]
    It did take a weird re-direction but it still looked funny when it went shooting behind him.

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  189. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Berselius]Buy mlb.tv – you can do it[/quote]Not on my stipend. (dying laughing)

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  190. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=Berselius](dying laughing), did the Cubs just IBB someone to get to Crawford? I love it.[/quote]Indeed.

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  191. mb21

    [quote name=Berselius](dying laughing), you can now[/quote]Until they get hacked again. Didn’t they find some vulnerability the day after they turned it back on?

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  192. Berselius

    [quote name=mb21]Until they get hacked again. Didn’t they find some vulnerability the day after they turned it back on?[/quote]
    (dying laughing), I wouldn’t be surprised. At least my credit card wasn’t in their ssytem.

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  193. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Whatever just happened broke ESPN Gamecast. (dying laughing)[/quote]
    Nothing, Rami just fouled off last two pitches, full count.

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  194. mb21

    [quote name=Berselius](dying laughing), I wouldn’t be surprised. At least my credit card wasn’t in their ssytem.[/quote]I had a debit card, but it’s my personal account and there’s no money in there. My wife cleaned it out. (dying laughing)

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  195. melissa

    Now all the Cubs fans in Fenway get to act like even bigger insufferable douches. Crane and Tom, I’m looking at you.

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  196. melissa

    (dying laughing)
    Sawx doing their best Cubs impersonation. They seemed to have forgotten what team they play for in these non-descript unis.

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  197. cubsfan4life

    [quote name=melissa](dying laughing)
    Sawx doing their best Cubs impersonation. They seemed to have forgotten what team they play for in these non-descript unis.[/quote]Either that or did they fix this game with the Cubs 1918 style? If you go as far as wearing those ugly uniforms, you better go one step far and fix the games just like it was done in 1918

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  198. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]The Cubs have infected the Red Sox. (dying laughing)[/quote]
    Curse of the Billy Goat goes viral. Literally.

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  199. Mercurial Outfielder

    [quote name=cubsfan4life]Either that or did they fix this game with the Cubs 1918 style? If you go as far as wearing those ugly uniforms, you better go one step far and fix the games just like it was done in 1918[/quote]In that case, they’d best get all those brown people off the field.

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  200. Mercurial Outfielder

    The Cubs are scoring all their runs for the week in this inning. Soak it in, folks.

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  201. melissa

    [quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]In that case, they’d best get all those brown people off the field.[/quote]
    Why do you think Reed and Baker are coming up big? White man, represent, 1918 style.

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  202. cubsfan4life

    That K really showcases the beauty of Koyie Hill. In an inning when everyone and their mistress were getting hits..Koyie freakin Hill Ks..

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  203. cubsfan4life

    [quote name=mb21]Is there evidence other than one of the players in 1919 suggesting they got the idea from the 1918 Cubs?[/quote]Well there is also no evidence if the Red Sox uniforms were really red or their hats were this ugly white back in 1918 because there was no color photography around at that time right?

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