Official 2007 MLB Season Thread

[Teh Don Ditty]

Might as well start it now since Pitchers & Catchers have started to report.

I wish everybody's team good luck (Except the Red Sox... Yankee Fan Baby)!

[MacNut]

I've been debating this for the past few days, looks like I don't have to worry anymore.:p

[MacNut]

Mo has one more year, Cashman isn't stupid he will give Rivera what ever he wants. I expect a new deal by June.

Bernie still might make the team but its not looking good. I don't know why we need Mientkiewicz on the team, The platoon at first is what is keeping Bernie off the team.

[IJ Reilly]

I've been debating this for the past few days, looks like I don't have to worry anymore.:p

Talking to yourself again, eh? A sure sign of a Yankee fan! ;)

[MacNut]

Talking to yourself again, eh? A sure sign of a Yankee fan! ;)Usually its yelling at the TV by myself.;)

I guess I should pass the keys of the baseball thread to Ditty.:cool: Beware it will get nasty in here come August.:)

[MacNut]

Giambi is full time DH now.

[Sun Baked]

You NY fans are so mean, you made the surly Big Unit run back here. ;)

Now he can make everyone here miserable. :(

[fotografica]

Should be a fun year. I,like many other Red Sox fans,are tired of the media tracking every single one of Dice K's bowel movements for cryin out loud :D Looking forward to April 20th ;) ...

[IJ Reilly]

Beware it will get nasty in here come August.:)

Oh, I hope so. I really do. ;)

[Teh Don Ditty]

Should be a fun year. I,like many other Red Sox fans,are tired of the media tracking every single one of Dice K's bowel movements for cryin out loud :D Looking forward to April 20th ;) ...

LOL! It would be the same here in Yankeeland too. It really is annoying, just let the guy pitch.

Looking forward to our at least 19 meetings this year.

[gauchogolfer]

Astros fan here chiming in. Hopefully someone besides Berkman will show up this season. Even cooler would be to not get a million games behind in the first half and have to fight back into the hunt. That would be novel.

[twoodcc]

well hopefully my man Griffey won't get injured again this year (yes i know, he got injured this off-season with an 'off-the-field' accident)

[Teh Don Ditty]

I guess I should pass the keys of the baseball thread to Ditty.:cool: Beware it will get nasty in here come August.:)

Thank you kind sir. Help is always welcome :cool: I can't wait until August/September, that's when the season is at it's best.

Today the streets will run red with Burgandy's blood!!!!

[fotografica]

LOL! It would be the same here in Yankeeland too. It really is annoying, just let the guy pitch.

Looking forward to our at least 19 meetings this year.

Agreed! Talk about overkill. Will be interesting to see him actually throw a pitch..Yes,nothing like Sox/Yankees...

[Teh Don Ditty]

Astros fan here chiming in. Hopefully someone besides Berkman will show up this season. Even cooler would be to not get a million games behind in the first half and have to fight back into the hunt. That would be novel.

Speaking of Astros, how could you not resign Andy Pettitte?

But thanks for that though, he's back home where he started :D

[Teh Don Ditty]

Agreed! Talk about overkill. Will be interesting to see him actually throw a pitch..Yes,nothing like Sox/Yankees...

Best rivalry in all of sports. And everybody knows it!!! If they don't, they're jealous!!!

So much history and blood there, it's just unbelievable.

[fotografica]

Best rivalry in all of sports. And everybody knows it!!! If they don't, they're jealous!!!

So much history and blood there, it's just unbelievable.

Yeah even a regular season game in April has playoff atmosphere..What's the feeling in NY on Clemens??Are they making a run at him??

[leekohler]

Best rivalry in all of sports. And everybody knows it!!! If they don't, they're jealous!!!

So much history and blood there, it's just unbelievable.

Yes, but after the last two seasons of no World Series for either, I'm hoping the focus in baseball can switch to some other teams for a change. ;)

[Teh Don Ditty]

Yeah even a regular season game in April has playoff atmosphere..What's the feeling in NY on Clemens??Are they making a run at him??

Of course they are. It's probably between BOS and NYY. Or maybe, just maybe he'll finally stay retired! That won't happen, the man can still pitch (mighty nasty, if i might add).

It's all going to boil down to how much money we're willing to offer him. God knows the Yanks need him because of certain pitcher that sucks at life and hasn't pitched since ummmm I can't remember.

MacNut what was his name again?

[Teh Don Ditty]

Yes, but after the last two seasons of no World Series for either, I'm hoping the focus in baseball can switch to some other teams for a change. ;)

The focus went to the Astros/White Sox and Tigers/Cards for the last 2 years.

Did anyone else think that the Tigers/Cards WS sucked? (Obviously not for the those 2 teams) It just seemed so boring.

[MacNut]

Pavano says he's ready to go this year, I'll believe it when I see it.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Pavano says he's ready to go this year, I'll believe it when I see it.

Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight. (que Dr. Evil) He'll manage to get injured before his first start of the season. He might as just say thanks for the cash (aka free ride).

[zephead]

It's been really cool to see some other teams getting in on the World Series besides the Yankees.

I wish everybody's team good luck (Except the Red Sox... Yankee Fan Baby)!

Booo! It's not that I'm a Red Sox fan, I'm a Yankee hater. :mad: :D

Southern California here, so I'm all about the Angels and Dodgers! w00t. :cool:

[Teh Don Ditty]

It's been really cool to see some other teams getting in on the World Series besides the Yankees.



Booo! It's not that I'm a Red Sox fan, I'm a Yankee hater. :mad: :D

Southern California here, so I'm all about the Angels and Dodgers! w00t. :cool:

Boooo! Angels.... grrrrrrrrr (they own us lol, what else can i say?)

I'd like to see the Dodgers return to grace. The team that needs to return to grace the most though is the Cubs. I'd actually like to see them win one (unless they're playing the Yankees, hate to do it to ya). I'll be rooting for the Cubbies this season.

[fotografica]

Of course they are. It's probably between BOS and NYY. Or maybe, just maybe he'll finally stay retired! That won't happen, the man can still pitch (mighty nasty, if i might add).

It's all going to boil down to how much money we're willing to offer him. God knows the Yanks need him because of certain pitcher that sucks at life and hasn't pitched since ummmm I can't remember.



And to think,in 1996, Dan Duquette proclaimed him to be in “the twilight of his career.” :confused:

[MacNut]

It will be interesting to see if Soriano pulls an Arod and chokes on his money.:rolleyes:

[twoodcc]

It will be interesting to see if Soriano pulls an Arod and chokes on his money.:rolleyes:

i like Soriano.....but i never did like the cubs.....i mean, come on, Slammin' Corkin' Steriodin' Sosa...

[zephead]

Boooo! Angels.... grrrrrrrrr (they own us lol, what else can i say?)

:D :D The Angels are the only team that can show up the Evil Empire. I like that. :)

[Teh Don Ditty]

:D :D The Angels are the only team that can show up the Evil Empire. I like that. :)

Go cram that Rally Monkey straight up your..... :D (don't take personally, tis be a joke)

As much as love monkeys (who doesn't?!?), the Angels took it too far.

Angels/Yanks is always fun to watch, it's a rivalry in the making.

Something else that annoys me, their full name. Ahem.... The Los Angeles Angels of Anahiem. Ummmmm, yea.

[zephead]

Ahem.... The Los Angeles Angels of Anahiem. Ummmmm, yea.

Yeah... I can't speak for the owner regarding that one lol. I (along with just about every other Angel fan) think that's stupid, why not just Anaheim Angels? :(

Somehting else interesting I forgot to add: At Dodger Stadium, they apparently also disagree so much with the Angels' name change that on the out-of-town scoreboards, the Angels' abbreviation is still ANA, and when they play each other, the names on the scoreboard are LA and ANA, though every other stadium and sports news outlet abbreviate them as LAD and LAA. Don't know the exact reasoning behind that one. :confused:

[Teh Don Ditty]

They should just go back to be called the LA Angels (yea bring it back Old School) or Anahiem Angels. If anything their abbreivation should be LAAA, but I guess that's just too much.

[Counterfit]

They should just go back to be called the LA Angels (yea bring it back Old School) or Anahiem Angels. If anything their abbreivation should be LAAA, but I guess that's just too much.

I thought they used to be the California Angels? :confused:

Anyways,

God knows the Yanks need him because of certain pitcher that sucks at life and hasn't pitched since ummmm I can't remember.

MacNut what was his name again?

Pavano? I might bitch about Clement a lot, but at least he's pitched some games in the last two years. Both of them get whacked with stuff too much though. Much like someone else (http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070215&content_id=1803050&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb) we always hear about...
Astros fan here chiming in. Hopefully someone besides Berkman will show up this season. Even cooler would be to not get a million games behind in the first half and have to fight back into the hunt. That would be novel.

Blah, you bastards stole Mark Loretta, so everyone except him can bat .150. :p

[Teh Don Ditty]

I stand corrected. It was the California Angels. I say bring that back instead of LAAA.

At least Wood pitched the last 2 season! The Yankees ROI (return on investment) on Pavano is -$39.95 million

EDIT: see the Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Pavano) entry on Pavano (read the first paragraph)

[Kwyjibo]

At least Wood pitched the last 2 season! The Yankees ROI (return on investment) on Pavano is -$39.95 million


This is impossible.

1. He hasn't been paid all of the money on his contract.
2. He's also won 4 games, that means he has some results, granted 4-2 with a 3.69 is not that impressive at all, infact its only impressive when you compare it to mark prior and kerry wood over the past two seasons ... but he still contributed something, and provided some return, granted it wasn't the expected return
3. Pavano is relatively cheap when you look at the deals that Ted Lilly and Gil Meche got ... I mean Pavano was better potential than them


it sucks to have hurt pitchers, I can empathize as a cubs fan ... but I argue on the semantics.


GO CUBBIES! SORIAN'07

[Teh Don Ditty]

This is impossible.

1. He hasn't been paid all of the money on his contract.
2. He's also won 4 games, that means he has some results, granted 4-2 with a 3.69 is not that impressive at all, infact its only impressive when you compare it to mark prior and kerry wood over the past two seasons ... but he still contributed something, and provided some return, granted it wasn't the expected return
3. Pavano is relatively cheap when you look at the deals that Ted Lilly and Gil Meche got ... I mean Pavano was better potential than them


it sucks to have hurt pitchers, I can empathize as a cubs fan ... but I argue on the semantics.


GO CUBBIES! SORIAN'07

Glad I'm not a Cubs fan. That $39.95mil is his entire contract. (4 years) I don't believe that he'll pitch until I see it. He went 4-6 with a 4.77 ERA in 17 starts in 2004. Didn't pitch 2005 or 2006. As far as I am concerned the Yankees ROI is -$39.95 million. (Final year of contract thank god! Many Yankees will agree with me on that)

I still can't believe that Lilly and Meche got great contracts, it boggels my mind.

Sori, is a big boost for the Cubs offensively. He does strikeout a lot though (avg 140/yr).

Good Luck to Cubbies, hope to see you in the playoffs this year.

Whereas, I hope not to see A-Rod choke yet again in the playoffs.

[zephead]

I thought they used to be the California Angels? :confused:

Actually, their first few years in existance ('61-'65) they were the Los Angeles Angels (Los Angeles: Spanish for "The Angels"), then they moved to Anaheim and became the California Angels, then Anaheim Angels ('97), then Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim ('05).

[Teh Don Ditty]

Actually, their first few years in existance ('61-'65) they were the Los Angeles Angels (Los Angeles: Spanish for "The Angels"), then they moved to Anaheim and became the California Angels, then Anaheim Angels ('97), then Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim ('05).

Let me hit you with some knowledge La Fleur! (Shameless plug for Dodgeball)

Nice catch zephead!

[zephead]

Let me hit your with some knowledge La Fleur! (Shameless plug for Dodgeball)

Nice catch zephead!

Thanks, I know my Angels stuff pretty well :D (and no I did not use Wikipedia for those certain little dark spots, how dare you suggest such a thing).

>_>

[Teh Don Ditty]

Thanks, I know my Angels stuff pretty well :D (and no I did not use Wikipedia for those certain little dark spots, how dare you suggest such a thing).

>_>

I know nothing!!!!

I really wish it was April. The season would be starting so would The Stanley Cup playoffs. Oh, how I love the spring time!

[furcalchick]

Best rivalry in all of sports. And everybody knows it!!! If they don't, they're jealous!!!

So much history and blood there, it's just unbelievable.

sorry, not best rivalry in baseball. dodgers vs. giants is the winner for baseball. those two hate each other like nobody's business, players and fans hate each other, and they are always knocking each other out of the playoffs.

i think yankees-red sox is one sided, which is red sox whine about the yankees spending too much (and then spending too much and being hypocrites) and the yankees almost always beating them. fyi, i hate them both, more so the red sox, i was against them in 04 due to classless behavior for the team. the yankees are just annoying. met fans, i can't stand, worst ever, at least the ones i know. they were so annoying last year, saying we finally won the east and acting really stupid. it was just so frustrating seeing them win the division. and there's this talk show host from new york that lives here in palm beach (where all new yorkers go, but he's 26) that was so annoying during the nlcs. glad they lost though. did i mention their stadium is a toilet bowl?

if you haven't noticed by now, i'm a braves fan. it was just too bad we stunk it up last year, losing the east to the hated muts of all teams!!! plus, more bad news, more corporate nonsense with new owners, who will be just as bad as time warner was, and plus, we're getting pulled from TBS after this season!!! it was bad enough when we had our schedule reduced, now we're going braveless?! i'm not going to watch stinky devil ray baseball everyday for six months. i can stand it once in a while, but not all year. i see a sudden reduction of the fanbase soon.

and the directv deal was stupid. even though i have directv and won't affect me, just another reason why bud the dud needs to leave. he has done little to help the sport expect for the wild card.

i'm also a padres, rangers and (sorta) astros supporter. i have a friend that is in the astros farm system, and i got a autograph ball from both roger and koby last year. btw, he was playing with koby.

i hope clemens goes to the astros instead of the yankees or sox.

but anyway, i've talked too much, spring training is here, and i'm going to workouts next week. i've been waiting for this day for a while.

[zephead]

sorry, not best rivalry in baseball. dodgers vs. giants is the winner for baseball. those two hate each other like nobody's business, players and fans hate each other, and they are always knocking each other out of the playoffs.

*switches to Dodger fan self* :D

In addition to being a Yankee-hater (the Angel fan side of me), I'm also against the Giants (the side of me that bleeds Dodger blue) :D. I was at Dodger Stadium this one time when they were playing the Giants, and even though we got beat (:(), the sweet smell of rivalry was in the air, and it was pretty cool. It was pretty much last-minute that we didn't go to the 2004 Steve Finley-division-clinching-grand-slam-bottom-of-the-9th game, which is probably #1 in the best Dodgers-kicking-Giants-ass moments of the past 10 years :D :cool:.

[furcalchick]

if you haven't heard, the dodgers are moving out of dodgertown after next spring training...so if you haven't gone to a game there yet, i suggest you plan a trip down there (up there for me) and catch them in a game.

i'm going sometime next month, date tbd.

and i would have to say att park is the best park in baseball. no questions asked.

[zephead]

if you haven't heard, the dodgers are moving out of dodgertown after next spring training...so if you haven't gone to a game there yet, i suggest you plan a trip down there (up there for me) and catch them in a game.

Ahh, I heard something about that but unfortunately I don't think it's very likely that I'd get to go :(.

[IJ Reilly]

Ahh, I heard something about that but unfortunately I don't think it's very likely that I'd get to go :(.

I don't know any Dodger fans who make the trek to Florida for spring training, which is why the Dodgers are outdrawn by a lot of the smaller-market teams training in Florida. It's also why they are moving to a new joint facility (with the White Sox) near Phoenix in 2009. As much as it will be sad to lose the tradition of Dodgertown, this is a great move for fans and an inevitable one for the Dodgers.

[Poseidon]

Speaking of Astros, how could you not resign Andy Pettitte?

But thanks for that though, he's back home where he started :D

Fortunately for the rest of the NL Central, the Astros are not exactly a big-market team - or at least don't have big-market money.

I, of course, will be waiting to see how much my Cubs get for their 300+ Million (not even counting what it's going to cost to keep Zambrano) and wondering whether the team will finally get sold.

- Paul

[Tanglewood]

Well heres to the Padres going for their third NL West Title in a row. Don't quite know the team yet, though it will be interesting have a different manager other than Bochy.

[MacNut]

Pre season predictions:

AL East
1. Yankees
2. Red Sox
3. Blue Jays
4. Devil Rays
5. Orioles

AL Central
1. Tigers
2. White Sox
3. Twins
4. Indians
5. Royals

AL West
1. Oakland
2. Angels
3. Texas
4. Seattle

WC Red Sox

NL East
1. Mets
2. Phillies
3. Braves
4. Marlins
5. Nationals

NL Central
1. Cardinals
2. Cubs
3. Brewers
4. Astros
5. Reds
6. Pirates

NL West
1. Dodgers
2. Giants
3. Padres
4. Arizona
5. Rockies

WC Cubs

Yankees beat Oakland, Red Sox beat Tigers. Yankees, Red Sox face off in 7, Yankees win.

Mets beat Cubs, Dodgers beat Cardinals, Dodgers beat Mets in 6.

Yankees Beat Dodgers in 6 game World Series.

[leekohler]

Pre season predictions:

AL East
1. Yankees
2. Red Sox
3. Blue Jays
4. Devil Rays
5. Orioles

AL Central
1. Tigers
2. White Sox
3. Twins
4. Indians
5. Royals

AL West
1. Oakland
2. Angels
3. Texas
4. Seattle

WC Red Sox

NL East
1. Mets
2. Phillies
3. Braves
4. Marlins
5. Nationals

NL Central
1. Cardinals
2. Cubs
3. Brewers
4. Astros
5. Reds
6. Pirates

NL West
1. Dodgers
2. Giants
3. Padres
4. Arizona
5. Rockies

WC Giants

Yankees beat Oakland, Red Sox beat Tigers. Yankees, Red Sox face off in 7, Yankees win.

Mets beat Giants, Dodgers beat Cardinals, Dodgers beat Mets in 6.

Yankees Beat Dodgers in 6 game World Series.

You really gave the Cubs a lot of credit. :) I wouldn't have. Their capacity to achieve the lowest lows is phenomenal.

[MacNut]

You really gave the Cubs a lot of credit. :) I wouldn't have. Their capacity to achieve the lowest lows is phenomenal.Im torn between the Cubs and Brewers but if their pitching and Soriano pan out I say they can edge the Brewers. I don't trust the Giants to be able to make it with just Zito so I can't give them the Wild Card.

I can't see the Astros making it without Pettitte and Clemans and Philly has no chance.

[zephead]

Yankees Beat Dodgers in 6 game World Series.

:(

[Teh Don Ditty]

I was waiting for somebody to post a prediction. MacNut yours looks pretty solid.

[leekohler]

Im torn between the Cubs and Brewers but if their pitching and Soriano pan out I say they can edge the Brewers. I don't trust the Giants to be able to make it with just Zito so I can't give them the Wild Card.

I can't see the Astros making it without Pettitte and Clemans and Philly has no chance.

Ah- so the Cubs get to number 2 because everyone else is bad, I love it! :) And that's the only way they'd do it anyway. ;)

[MacNut]

Ah- so the Cubs get to number 2 because everyone else is bad, I love it! :) And that's the only way they'd do it anyway. ;)I think the NL Central is up for grabs, The Brewers are building a team and the Cubs always have a shot on paper and with Soriano they might have enough.

[IJ Reilly]

You really gave the Cubs a lot of credit. :) I wouldn't have. Their capacity to achieve the lowest lows is phenomenal.

The Cubs bought a lot on credit! Not that this will help them win. Nothing seems to make that happen -- it's one of the game's great constants.

But did you ever notice -- all of MacNut's predictions have the Yankees winning the World Series? Those Yankee fans, they set themselves up for disappointment like no others!

[MacNut]

But did you ever notice -- all of MacNut's predictions have the Yankees winning the World Series? Those Yankee fans, they set themselves up for disappointment like no others!What do you think I will place the Red Sox to win.:rolleyes: Its been 6 years and Pettitte is back so this is the year.

[IJ Reilly]

What do you think I will place the Red Sox to win.:rolleyes: Its been 6 years and Pettitte is back so this is the year.

Naturally. Problem is, I remember what you said last year. ;)

[MacNut]

Naturally. Problem is, I remember what you said last year. ;)Ya I underestimated the Mets and TigersAL East
1 - NY Yankees
2 - Boston Red Sox--Wild Card
3 - Toronto Blue Jays
4 - Baltimore Orioles
5 - Tampa Bay Devil Rays

AL Central
1 - Chicago White Sox
2 - Cleveland Indians
3 - Minnesota Twins
4 - Detroit Tigers
5 - Kansas City Royals

AL West
1 - Los Angeles Angels
2 - Oakland A's
3 - Texas Rangers
4 - Seattle Mariners

ALDS
Yankees over Angels
Chicago over Red Sox

ALCS
Yankees over White Sox

NL East
1 - New York Mets
2 - Atlanta Braves--Wild Card
3 - Philadelphia Phillies
4 - Washington Nationals
5 - Florida Marlins

NL Central
1 - St. Louis Cardinals
2 - Houston Astros
3 - Milwaukee Brewers
4 - Pittsburgh Pirates
5 - Chicago Cubs
6 - Cincinnati Reds

NL West
1 - Los Angeles Dodgers
2 - San Francisco Giants
3 - San Diego Padres
4 - Arizona Diamondbacks
5 - Colorado Rockies

NLCS
Dodgers over Mets
Cardinals over Braves

NLDS
Cardinals over Dodgers

WS
Yankees over CardinalsActually I didn't think I had the Mets winning the division last year.

[IJ Reilly]

Ya I underestimated the Mets and Tigers

...and overestimated the Yankees! (I just had to say it!) :D

[fotografica]

What do you think I will place the Red Sox to win.:rolleyes: Its been 6 years and Pettitte is back so this is the year.
Yeah...But unfortunately Tino,Brosius and O'Neill arent :p Sorry,couldn't resist. Is it April yet??:D

[MacNut]

Yeah...But unfortunately Tino,Brosius and O'Neill arent :p Sorry,couldn't resist. Is it April yet??:DI don't see the Red Sox dream team anymore either. Millar, Damon, Arroyo.;)

[Teh Don Ditty]

I don't see the Red Sox dream team anymore either. Millar, Damon, Arroyo.;)

Don't you mean the Idiots?

[MacNut]

Some of the idiots are still on the team tho. The dream team is what made it go.

[Teh Don Ditty]

I could've sworn Millar started that enitre Idiots thing and the 2003 "Cowboy Up" line.

Captain Idiot (Oriole), Caveman (Yankee), and Guitar Hero (Red).

[MacNut]

A major league position player who scuffs or defaces a baseball would be ejected and receive an automatic 10-game suspension under changes approved Friday by the sport's playing rules committee.

Previously, the penalty was to call the pitch a ball and warn the player. For pitchers, umpires have the discretion to issue only a warning if they determine the pitcher's actions weren't intended to alter the characteristics of a pitch.

As part of the first changes to baseball rules since 1996, the committee approved a recommendation from general managers to largely eliminate tie games.

Before this year, when an official game was called due to weather and the score was tied, the statistics counted and a new game was replayed from the start. Under the change, when a game is tied in the bottom of the fifth inning or later and is called because of weather, it will be suspended and resumed before the next scheduled game between the teams at the same ballpark.

If no more games remain between the teams at the same ballpark, it will be resumed when the teams meet at the visitor's ballpark. If it is the final scheduled meeting between the teams, it will be replayed from the start if it is needed to determine a postseason berth.

Under another change, a player may no longer step into a dugout to catch a foul ball. He still will be allowed to reach into a dugout.

A batter running to first base also will be allowed to exit the 3-foot lane in foul territory "for the sole purpose of touching first base," and a batter will lose the ability to run to first on a dropped third strike if he leaves the dirt circle around home plate unless he does so while trying to reach first base.

Previously, a player could run to first until he reached the dugout or his defensive position.

In another change, a batter who hits an apparent game-ending home run with less than two outs would be allowed to circle the bases if a runner ahead of him doesn't continue to home plate, thinking the game is over. If there are two outs when the play begins, however, the runner who abandons trying for home plate would be the third out and the home run would not count.

Another change allows pitchers to wear a multicolored glove if the umpire determines it isn't distracting. And a pitcher in the stretch position instead of a windup with no runners on base no longer will have to come to a complete stop.

With no runners on, a pitcher will be required to pitch within 12 seconds, the timing starting when the pitcher is in possession of the ball and the batter is in the batter's box, alert to the pitcher.

In addition, several changes were made to the scoring rules.

Batter's box presence: Conversely, an automatic strike will be assessed each time a batter violates the rule requiring they keep one foot in the batter's box throughout his at-bat, except for certain game-play conditions -- during which he is still not allowed to leave the dirt area surrounding the plate.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Nothing too major. Seems like some house keeping rule changes. With the exception of scuffing the ball. 10 game suspension. That rule should be called the "Kenny Rogers Rule"

[furcalchick]

Don't you mean the Idiots?

one of the many reasons i can't stand the red sox.

meanwhile, i'll be at cardinals and marlins workouts on wednesday. i may post a few of the pics in this thread or make a new thread for baseball pics.

[Teh Don Ditty]

one of the many reasons i can't stand the red sox.

meanwhile, i'll be at cardinals and marlins workouts on wednesday. i may post a few of the pics in this thread or make a new thread for baseball pics.

If you go to a game and take pics post them in here. Everybody loves baseball game pictures!

I hate the Red Sox because I'm a Yankee Fan (and vice versa for Sox fans).

[furcalchick]

something else...glavine may retire if he wins #300 this year. as you know, most braves fans, me included, have a bit of anger against him for going for cash back in 2003. he's a big time traitor and will boo him every time i see him. not only did he leave us, he went with the mutts of all people.

and btw, their stadium is a toilet bowl and were no good for years of being picked to dethrone us before last year. i can't stand the mets. i always cheer for the yankees over the mets, even though i don't like either of them.

and contrary to the news, it's cold down here in florida too. not as bad as it was in the north, but it got down to the 30's last night in south florida and flurries showed up in tally.

[IJ Reilly]

A batter running to first base also will be allowed to exit the 3-foot lane in foul territory "for the sole purpose of touching first base," and a batter will lose the ability to run to first on a dropped third strike if he leaves the dirt circle around home plate unless he does so while trying to reach first base.

I wonder if this rule change is a result of that infamous play in the 2005 ALCS game between the Angels and White Sox, when AJ Pierzynski started back to the dugout on strike three, and then safely ran to first?

[MacNut]

Well the toilet bowl will be gone in 2009 as well as the cathedral in the Bronx.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Many Yankee Fans refer to Shea as the Barney Stadium (it supposed to be blue but it's purple) Thankfully both NY teams are getting new stadiums.

Wow 30s is cold for Florida. Just make sure the oranges don't freeze! I need my Orange Juice!!!

I don't understand how you can even cheer for the Yankees... see 1996 and 1999. :D But, I guess if the Yanks/Mets are playing each other I can see where you're comming from.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Well the toilet bowl will be gone in 2009 as well as the cathedral in the Bronx.

I was wondering if any other Yankee fans called Yankee Stadium "The Cathedral". I'm big on calling it that.

As much as I am going to miss The Cathedral, we were in need of a new stadium. And that one will be dubed The Cathedral II or The Second Cathedral.

[fotografica]

I could've sworn Millar started that enitre Idiots thing and the 2003 "Cowboy Up" line.

Captain Idiot (Oriole), Caveman (Yankee), and Guitar Hero (Red).

Good ones!.The idiot thing was pretty much Millar's clame to fame.Lord knows he sure couldn't hit,other than into double plays.The switch to the National League was good for Arroyo. Among other things,he didn't handle the pressure he well at all.The one deal I would love to have back,is the Damon deal.And yeah,I despise the Yankees as much as you despise the Red Sox..

[Poseidon]

Ah- so the Cubs get to number 2 because everyone else is bad, I love it! :) And that's the only way they'd do it anyway. ;)

You must be a White Sox fan. Or a jaded Cubs fan. I'm not sure which...

[Poseidon]

It will be interesting to see if Soriano pulls an Arod and chokes on his money.:rolleyes:

I'm more worried about him just being too damn old and broken down halfway through his contract. The guy is going to be 38 or 39 by the time it's all said and done and unless he's still putting up good numbers by the final year - or traded away for something useful - it will be another bust contract for the Cubbies.

i like Soriano.....but i never did like the cubs.....i mean, come on, Slammin' Corkin' Steriodin' Sosa...

Don't hate Sammy for trying to get an edge, like most baseball players do. Hate 'em for being a spoiled, lying, bad-attitude-having, possible-steroid-using schmuck.

[fotografica]

Don't hate Sammy for trying to get an edge, like most baseball players do. Hate 'em for being a spoiled, lying, bad-attitude-having, possible-steroid-using schmuck.
Amen..There could be quite a group with those attributes...

[MacNut]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/spring2007/news/story?id=2770622After 21 years in the Yankees' organization, including 16 with the major league team, Williams feels burned and doesn't think he should have to earn a job. His agent, Scott Boras, said Saturday that Williams hasn't shown any desire to do that or to play for another team.

"I think he's hurt. I don't think there's any question," Torre said. "He's a very proud individual. I know there are a lot of players in this clubhouse who certainly feel for Bernie. But, again, unfortunately, it's the nature of the game a lot of times."I wish the Yankees would just give him a contract and get it over with so Bernie can end his career right.

[twoodcc]

Don't hate Sammy for trying to get an edge, like most baseball players do. Hate 'em for being a spoiled, lying, bad-attitude-having, possible-steroid-using schmuck.

that is why i hate him....

[Teh Don Ditty]

Nothing really of importance. Thought I'd share it though.

MLB switching to synthetic caps to replace the traditional wool ones. Link (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2772958)

[furcalchick]

i hope this material isn't the type that i can't wear at all. i can't really stand a few types of fabric, and i think sythentic was one of them. i need to try one first.

and i'm probably going up to practice on friday to see the cardinals and marlins. was planning to go today, but it was a bit cold as well as some planning difficulties.

[zephead]

Don't worry, New Era is still gonna be selling the wool caps. :)

[925AS]

Ok so for consumers this is significant news, it seems as the FCC is going to investigate the Direct TV and MLB extra innings deal.

As someone that doesnt have Direct tv or want direct tv, I am so glad tey are looking at this, it gives me hope I can watch all the games yet again.

[AstrosFan]

Speaking of Astros, how could you not resign Andy Pettitte?

But thanks for that though, he's back home where he started :D

I know, especially in the ridiculous market that was this off-season (can anyone say Gil Meche & Ted Lilly?), it's hard to swallow the 'stros not ponying-up $2 mil extra to keep a solid #2 starter.

With Roger stringing everyone along, that leaves us with RoyO & a whole lotta question marks. It also forced Tim Purpura to give up too much in order to get a serviceable starter in Jason Jennings.

I read some rumor that said Drayton McLane was feeling pressure from Bud Selig b/c of the inflated Carlos Lee deal to not cave to more union pressure. Of course, there was no actual source to that rumor, so I have no idea how true it is.

At the end of the day, even though Andy was injury-prone at times, I think he would've made our rotation a lot more legit.

[Teh Don Ditty]

I know, especially in the ridiculous market that was this off-season (can anyone say Gil Meche & Ted Lilly?), it's hard to swallow the 'stros not ponying-up $2 mil extra to keep a solid #2 starter.

With Roger stringing everyone along, that leaves us with RoyO & a whole lotta question marks. It also forced Tim Purpura to give up too much in order to get a serviceable starter in Jason Jennings.

I think it was actually $1mil difference. How ridiculous. The 'Stros should've ponied up the dough.

I'm not gonna say a word about Gil Meche and Ted Lilly. It's just too funny.

I do like RoyO, he's absolutely filthy. But, as you said, you're rotation is a whole bunch of question marks. To be honest with ya, I don't see the 'Stros going anywhere this season. Sorry, my friend.

Roger Clemens is starting to piss me off with his retirement bull.

[furcalchick]

got back half an hour ago from spring workouts, and i got over 200 photos total from the cardinals and marlins spring training camps. it's good i got that new camera, couldn't even take half that with the old one. and the thing was, i could have taken 200 more.

i'll post some pictures throughout the weekend and some by request.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Oh do share said pictures!!! Each day moves us one day closer to Opening Day!

[baseballman1243]

I am a huge Yankees fan...can't wait until the season.

[AstrosFan]

I do like RoyO, he's absolutely filthy. But, as you said, you're rotation is a whole bunch of question marks. To be honest with ya, I don't see the 'Stros going anywhere this season. Sorry, my friend.

Roger Clemens is starting to piss me off with his retirement bull.

Completely agree with you about Clemens stringing people along. The reality is, though, as long as you have the talent, people will cater to special demands.

As for the Astros prospects this year, though I'm not loving their starting rotation, the reality is that the NL Central is fairly wide open. That being said, they'll have to win the division, b/c I don't see the Wild Card coming from the Central. The East & West are full of deep teams, so it's going to be key for the Astros not to come out flat.

If Ensberg can return to semi-form, then he, Lance & Carlos Lee should be a reasonably formidable middle 3 of the lineup.

[andysc]

From St. Louis here. Can't wait to see how their pitching rotation will look this season.

[Bibulous]

Just wanted to relive last year, still hard to believe it

They have been playing Mag's HR on commercials for season tickets, what a great feeling seeing that again.

[fotografica]

Roger Clemens is starting to piss me off with his retirement bull.
Agreed.It's the same bs every year now. Don't string people/teams along. Piss or get off the pot.

[Poseidon]

Agreed.It's the same bs every year now. Don't string people/teams along. Piss or get off the pot.

Is anyone really surprised though? When teams are willing to pony up stupid amounts of cash for mediocre talent (Lilly with the Cubs, for example) I'm not surprised that organizations are willing to put up with the insanity for a guy who's still got great stuff.

And Clemens at 42 (?) is still better then most of the pitchers currently out there.

[aloofman]

Roger Clemens is starting to piss me off with his retirement bull.

Starting to? He may be the most selfish athlete out there, and that includes Bonds.

[thedude110]

fyi, i hate them both, more so the red sox, i was against them in 04 due to classless behavior for the team.

What on earth are you talking about?

The expectation of class in sports baffles me, though only vaguely, I 'spose.

Would love to see your pics when you have time to post them.


Am interested to know, outside of our own pet teams, who we think improved themselves most significantly this offseason? I see two breakout teams this year -- the DBacks (adding Doug Davis as a three behind Webb and RJ is significant, and if the youngsters can get it together) and the Indians (their bullpen additions are significant, even with the loss of Foulke). A .500 team after June, I wouldn't be surprised to see a Cleveland surge despite the divsion. I like Sabbathia, Lee, Byrd, Sowers, Westbrook ... plus Adam Miller could come up firing down the stretch.

[Poseidon]

Starting to? He may be the most selfish athlete out there, and that includes Bonds.

Okay, THAT would I disagree with.

Bonds is probably the single biggest focus for contraversy and fan dislike in the sport right now. And even though he's under investigation and his health is failing, he continues to put his pursuit of Hank Aaron's record (and his greed) above the welfare of the Giants and baseball in general. They actually had to add a clause to the 1 year deal he signed with the Giants addressing what would happen if he gets indicted.

Clemens, while possibly wishy-washy and probably greedy, is no worse then any other guy out there trying to get paid. And at least Clemens, with his skills and past history, is probably worth all the money he's asking.

[aloofman]

Okay, THAT would I disagree with.

Bonds is probably the single biggest focus for contraversy and fan dislike in the sport right now. And even though he's under investigation and his health is failing, he continues to put his pursuit of Hank Aaron's record (and his greed) above the welfare of the Giants and baseball in general. They actually had to add a clause to the 1 year deal he signed with the Giants addressing what would happen if he gets indicted.

Clemens, while possibly wishy-washy and probably greedy, is no worse then any other guy out there trying to get paid. And at least Clemens, with his skills and past history, is probably worth all the money he's asking.

At the risk of sounding like a Bonds apologist, which I'm definitely not:

Bonds has not seriously negotiated with other teams to get a pay raise since he joined the Giants. Clemens has left several teams to get a bigger contract.

Bonds has never let himself get out of shape (which Clemens did in his last few years in Boston), then applied himself with another team after getting more money (Clemens in Toronto).

Bonds has never forced a trade from the team he excels for (Clemens in Toronto) to a contender that can also pay him more (Clemens with the Yankees).

Bonds travels with the team. Clemens often skips road trips until his scheduled start.

Bonds has never sat out a third of a season without an injury to create a new bidding war.

Obviously Bonds is pretty selfish, but I think Clemens tops him in several ways. To that I would add that Clemens has experienced a similar late-career performance surge without being seriously investigated for the reasons behind it.

[fotografica]

[QUOTE=Poseidon;3392820
Clemens, while possibly wishy-washy and probably greedy, is no worse then any other guy out there trying to get paid. And at least Clemens, with his skills and past history, is probably worth all the money he's asking.[/QUOTE]

For half a season,pitching when he wants,coming to the ballpark basically at his leisure to start/relieve...dunno about that one.I know the market is way out of whack,but that's some serious coin he's looking for.Last time in the post season for the Astros,his body didn't fair so well..

[Poseidon]

At the risk of sounding like a Bonds apologist, which I'm definitely not:

Bonds has not seriously negotiated with other teams to get a pay raise since he joined the Giants. Clemens has left several teams to get a bigger contract.

Bonds has never let himself get out of shape (which Clemens did in his last few years in Boston), then applied himself with another team after getting more money (Clemens in Toronto).

Bonds has never forced a trade from the team he excels for (Clemens in Toronto) to a contender that can also pay him more (Clemens with the Yankees).

Bonds travels with the team. Clemens often skips road trips until his scheduled start.

Bonds has never sat out a third of a season without an injury to create a new bidding war.

Obviously Bonds is pretty selfish, but I think Clemens tops him in several ways. To that I would add that Clemens has experienced a similar late-career performance surge without being seriously investigated for the reasons behind it.

While I understand the argument you’re trying to get across, I think you may be glossing over some key points.

First, Bonds probably hasn't negotiated with another team because he's such damaged goods. While he may be putting up power numbers, there is such a cloud of suspicion and mistrust about him and his actions I’m not sure that anyone else would be willing to sign the guy for the money he wants and with the conditions he’s working under: constant, negative media attention, legal investigations and the like. I would also guess that up until a few years ago he wasn’t even a realistic trade prospect - who in their right mind would give up a Barry Bonds in his prime, especially before all the speculation started about his steroid use?

Secondly, I would say that while Clemens is obviously selfish and money-driven he’s no different in this regard then any other high-priced athlete. Professional sports are unfortunately driven by the idea that the individual asks for as much as he can, especially if that individual is at the top of his game. Clemens happens to be a hell of a good pitcher so he can command top dollar and all the extra considerations. And at least with Clemens you know what you’re getting – you know that he’s a mercenary, that he’ll ask for X, Y and Z and unless you’re willing to give it to him, you shouldn’t bother phoning his agent. As far as I can tell, asking not to travel for away-games or having extra perks is no different then signing a $16 million dollar contract – it’s all money in one form or another.

Finally, while you may have your doubts about Clemen’s late-career surge, no one has ever cheated as blatantly as Bonds has. Never mind the huge physical changes to his body, like the fact that his once normal-sized head could now be mistaken for a Goodyear Blimp or that he’s magically put on a ton of muscle and weight. Ignore the fact this once somewhat light-hitting player has somehow transformed into the greatest power hitter ever in the game – in his THIRTIES. This control-freak, who runs everything around him, would have you believe that his trainer slipped him steroids for years in the form of “Flax-Seed,” that his physical transformation is due to great diet and exercise and that what we’ve seen happen to him is perfectly plausible.

Maybe it’s just that Bonds treats the public as though we’re all easily-duped idiots that bother me the most about him…

[MacNut]

There are suspicions about Clemans as well and what he might have been taking.

[Poseidon]

There are suspicions about Clemans as well and what he might have been taking.


Sure - because given what we know now, we all (rightfully) are very suspicious about anyone who makes the sort of the late-career surge that Clemens has.

However, Clemens and Bonds are on two opposite ends of the spectrum here. While we have everything up to, and including, Bond's admission that he took steroids (or Flax-seed labeled steroids), there's not even circumstantial evidence that Clemens has done anything wrong.

[aloofman]

While I understand the argument you’re trying to get across, I think you may be glossing over some key points. ...



Again, I'm not trying to defend Bonds. I wasn't comparing based on his cheating, entourage, or lying, only his selfishness. In this regard, Clemens is right up there.

Bonds hasn't been a light hitter since his early days with the Pirates. And it's easy to forget that until the 73-homer season in 2001 and the subsequent steroid suspicions, he wasn't considered damaged goods yet. He was a jerk, yes, but not a liability.

[Poseidon]

[QUOTE=aloofman;3394177]Again, I'm not trying to defend Bonds.
QUOTE]


Oh you are! And as punishment you're sentenced to watch the ESPN reality show about him. HAH!

:)

[aloofman]

[QUOTE=aloofman;3394177]Again, I'm not trying to defend Bonds.
QUOTE]


Oh you are! And as punishment you're sentenced to watch the ESPN reality show about him. HAH!

:)

The Constitution forbids cruel and unusual punishment. :D

[furcalchick]

espn has the braves game on friday!!! yea!!! 1 pm and we get our first dose of baseball this year.

still working on the pics though.

[Poseidon]

[QUOTE=Poseidon;3396242]

The Constitution forbids cruel and unusual punishment. :D

Damn pinko liberal mac-user! He must be taught a lesson...

Heh.

[MacNut]

Ok you guys need to learn how to use quote tags.;)

[furcalchick]

i have a photo of my sports collection in my room that i would like for you to see. i'll get to the spring training photos any day now.

note: tony gwynn got cut off on the left side of the photo...sorry.

[Poseidon]

i have a photo of my sports collection in my room that i would like for you to see. i'll get to the spring training photos any day now.

note: tony gwynn got cut off on the left side of the photo...sorry.

Poor Tony.

Pretty neat little collection - except that you're a Braves Fan. :confused:

(Go Cubs!)

[IJ Reilly]

Is that stuff glued down, or something? :eek:

[furcalchick]

Is that stuff glued down, or something? :eek:

no, the photo is sideways.

and to the right of gwynn is a personally signed roger clemens ball with his seven cy young awards sig, koby's sig, joey devine and then my main collection of autograph balls, featuring andruw, chipper and a bunch of others. yet to snag my boy furcal or my other boy jake peavy.

and yes, i'm a braves fan. and ironically, i've never lived in atlanta. only been there less than a week in my whole life (21).

[MacNut]

espn has the braves game on friday!!! yea!!! 1 pm and we get our first dose of baseball this year.

still working on the pics though.Yankees/Indians Thursday on Yes.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Yankees/Indians Thursday on Yes.

GIGGITY!!!

[furcalchick]

these are all from last friday's spring training workout from jupiter, fl. first, the marlins.

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/2949/p1000452ow8.jpg
http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/7074/p1000464cp8.jpg
http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/7918/p1000466ff3.jpg
dontrelle stretching and showing his fuzz.

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/800/p1000469yi8.jpg
miguel and amezga hanging out.

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/6593/p1000473bd8.jpg
scott olsen!!

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/4835/p1000474kq1.jpg
more dontrelle

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/6269/p1000479uu9.jpg
more miguel

http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/1536/p1000483ox8.jpg
shadez!!

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/3968/p1000486rx9.jpg
anibal sanchez, miguel cabrera and others.

http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/9169/p1000497gd2.jpg
josh johnson and others.

more next post. (photo limit)

[furcalchick]

more marlins camp photos.

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/3507/p1000504qm8.jpg
the whole team on the first base foul line.

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/6332/p1000514iw3.jpg
reggie abercrombie

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/5701/p1000519sd3.jpg
his name is dan uggla. i thought he was short when i saw him, dontrelle agreed that he was short, but i told him he was good.

http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/7021/p1000525kn8.jpg
miguel said he hates his wife's cooking though. be the judge.

cardinal camp photos from same day in a little bit.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Good work furcalchick!!

How about some pictures of them actually playing instead of stretching :D ;)

I caught a few innings of the Twins/Yankees yesterday. Absolutely glorious.

The sweet smell of hot dogs, beer, peanuts, popcorn etc. is not too far away.

[furcalchick]

i've only had this camera for about three months, and this was my first real session with the camera, and much better than the old camera i had (now broken).

panasonic DMZ-TZ1 (10x optical zoom without the bulkiness of most cameras with this zoom), on sports setting. more on this camera: http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-DMC-TZ1K-Compact-Digital-Stabilized/dp/B000EITTLE i got it for 231 dollars after considering some other larger cameras like the powershot.

photo info:

1/1000 shutter, aperture 4.0/max aperture 2.8, no exposure bias, 23.90 mm focal length, 100 iso speed, pattern metering, one chip color area.

just so that you get to know my camera.

and the braves are on espn now.

[furcalchick]

http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/2840/p1000545xg5.jpg
cardinals manager tony larussa...it was next to a chain linked fence though...

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/9932/p1000552fl8.jpg
scott speizo and his red fuzz thing.

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/2586/p1000556oj7.jpg
albert pujols taking some cuts.

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/557/p1000560bc6.jpg
speizo and puljols.

http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/2094/p1000565ac7.jpg
albert pujols again.

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/2930/p1000572mj5.jpg
puljous taking some more cuts.

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/7157/p1000580ag0.jpg
david eckstien. he's short.

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/2990/p1000594uu3.jpg
larry walker is now a coach with the cardinals.

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/2645/p1000604id2.jpg
hall of famer dennis eckersly came to cardinals camp, him and larussa are great buddies from oakland. but he likes the raiders.

http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/42/p1000623cx5.jpg
david eckstien again.

that's it for now. ask me if you want some more though.

[Teh Don Ditty]

THE ECK!!!!!!

Is it me or does Pujols not have a neck?

Eckstein looks like he's 5'5"

[thedude110]

1.) Holy crap Dontrelle Willis has a lot of teeth.

2.) Eckersly. He's killing me in my strato-matic league right now.

Great pics --great to get the flavor of it all.

God I love baseball.

[Poseidon]

Ewgawds! It's the hated Cardinals - where are the Cubbies pics damnit?! :)

Seriously though thanks for the material - definately nice to see this stuff and be reminded that real baseball isn't too far off.


1.) Holy crap Dontrelle Willis has a lot of teeth.

2.) Eckersly. He's killing me in my strato-matic league right now.

Great pics --great to get the flavor of it all.

God I love baseball.

What's a stratomatic league anyway?

[thedude110]

What's a stratomatic league anyway?

Hosted by sportingnews.com -- offers the opportunity to play the board game Strat-O-Matic baseball over the web. You can play previous seasons, decades, or all time greats.

I'm in all time greats league at the moment. Jim Rice is striking out too much. Despite his real life WHIP of .82, I had to waive Eck 'cause he couldn't get anybody out. Jose Oquendo does a little bit of everything, but the real anchor to my team is Willie Wilson. Which should tell you how bad I am.

I should start a thread on it. I will, sometime. It's fun.

[MacNut]

Its only spring but this made me smile.

Barry Bonds lost a fly ball in the sun and struck out swinging at a high pitch well out of the zone.

Not the best spring debut for San Francisco's slugger.

"Get all the good stuff out of the way early," Bonds said, laughing.

He went 0-for-2 with the four-pitch strikeout by Milwaukee prospect Yovani Gallardo, a 21-year-old right-hander who led all minor leaguers with 188 Ks last year, and grounded out on the first pitch he saw to end the first inning.

Bonds then described his day at the plate in the Giants' 21-2 loss to a Brewers split squad by using a profane adjective.

[fotografica]

It's spring training..Take it with a grain of salt :D I don't sport wood over Dice K pictching a couple of good innings against BC,lol..Nor would I hide my shoelaces because Piniero gets lit up in the first weekend in March....

[furcalchick]

Giants slugger Bonds stays home with flu (AP)
Barry Bonds missed the San Francisco Giants' spring training workouts Sunday for the second straight day because of the flu. Bonds wasn't in the Giants' lineup for a home exhibition game against the Seattle Mariners after coming down with the same bug that has affected much of the Giants' roster in the last two weeks.

some other news, i'm going to next monday's braves-cardinals game in jupiter, and this is my first real test with the new camera. as a demonstration, here's a pic from last year at the same stadium from the bleachers (near the left field foul line) to home plate. model taken from below is here: http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/fuji/finepix2600-review/index.html .

http://img157.imageshack.us/img157/4669/20060320064pn7.jpg

i'll take a similar shot next week with the new camera.

[furcalchick]

this is alfredo amezaga, along with miguel caberera of the marlins. this is from last friday.

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/5354/p1000476sp3.jpg

new pictures coming next monday.

[MacNut]

I think its time for a baseball pictures thread. They are starting to bog down the pages here.

[zephead]

this is alfredo amezaga, along with miguel caberera of the marlins. this is from last friday.

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/5354/p1000476sp3.jpg

new pictures coming next monday.

Hah, Amezaga looks like he's pointing right at you. :cool:

[IJ Reilly]

I think its time for a baseball pictures thread. They are starting to bog down the pages here.

Especially when people insist on quoting them back.

[furcalchick]

i'm going to a game tomorrow, should i put the pics in this thread, or make a new thread in the photo forum and have a link from here?

i asked this before, first time, they said post it here, but it looks like we have other options.

[Teh Don Ditty]

i'm going to a game tomorrow, should i put the pics in this thread, or make a new thread in the photo forum and have a link from here?

i asked this before, first time, they said post it here, but it looks like we have other options.

Here ya go. (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?p=3432744)

[MacNut]

Ok the season is only a week and a half away now, Is there any thought of maybe having an MR fantasy league?

[Teh Don Ditty]

Alright we're back now after a little hiatus. I was never good at Fantasy Leagues (Teams), but it sounds like a good idea. We seem to have a lot of baseball fans in this thread so we might be good to go.

FurcalChick - those pictures are looking great in the other thread. Great work!

[MacNut]

I know a fantasy league was talked about in the past but never really taken to far. I think this would be a good time to try it.

I would like to thank everyone involved in reinstating this thread.:)

[Teh Don Ditty]

Tony LaRussa was arrested for suspicion of drunken driving. ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2807935)

In other news - I was just watching Yankeeography: Tino Martinez. Absolutely amazing. Oh how I do miss No. 24 Tino Martinez (#24 no belongs to Robinson Cano)

[mattscott306]

Tony LaRussa was arrested for suspicion of drunken driving. ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2807935)


Sucks for the Cards, but we're taking the NL this year anyways. :)

[Poseidon]

Sucks for the Cards, but we're taking the NL this year anyways. :)

Who's "we?"


(And Tony LaRussa has STILL been arrested on DUI charges. Go Cubs!)

[Teh Don Ditty]

Johnathan Papelbon is going to be the Red Sox closer.

[mattscott306]

Who's "we?"


(And Tony LaRussa has STILL been arrested on DUI charges. Go Cubs!)
Look at my Location. :)

[thedude110]

I know a fantasy league was talked about in the past but never really taken to far. I think this would be a good time to try it.

I would like to thank everyone involved in reinstating this thread.:)

Could be fun, but I'm in a pretty dedicated league already.

Johnathan Papelbon is going to be the Red Sox closer.

Speaking of which -- this really effs up my draft.

[fotografica]

Johnathan Papelbon is going to be the Red Sox closer.

Not a surprise at all here in Boston.Francona has wanted this all along.It was ownership that was pushing for JP to be a starter. Hard to rationalize putting a close to near lights out closer into the rotation.WEEI was all over this the moment the rumor broke.

[Poseidon]

Sucks for the Cards, but we're taking the NL this year anyways. :)

Ohhhh! You're a Braves fan. Figures!

Listen, you guys won your division for something like that 13 decades in a row. Leave some for the those of us who cheer for teams that have 3 division titles in 20 years and haven't even seen a World Series in 62 freaking years!:p

[Teh Don Ditty]

Ohhhh! You're a Braves fan. Figures!

Listen, you guys won your division for something like that 13 decades in a row. Leave some for the those of us who cheer for teams that have 3 division titles in 20 years and haven't even seen a World Series in 62 freaking years!:p

You forgot to mention your last World Series Win in 1908. Comming up on the century mark.

[Poseidon]

You forgot to mention your last World Series Win in 1908. Comming up on the century mark.

Yeah, thanks a whole lot for reminding me of that =/ Rub a little bit MORE salt in the wounds. [As if any Cubs fan worth his salt doesn't already know that... :( ]

May the fleas of a thousand camels infest the armpits of your starting rotation!

[Teh Don Ditty]

Well we do have Carl Pavano....

I'll be heading over to Wrigley this summer to see the Mets take on the Cubs. In this case I'll be rooting for the Cubs.

[princealfie]

Yankees rule!

[Teh Don Ditty]

Yankes SP Wang to start season on the DL. ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2810733)

[martinrunner]

I am new to this blog, but thought this would be a good place to ask the question.

Does anyone know of any fantasy baseball software for the MAC? There's a lot of PC versions, but I can't seem to find one (mainly to use on draft day to track my team and the other teams in a league with a salary limit of $260) for the MAC.

Thanks,

Bruce

[twoodcc]

i just hope Griffey can finish this year with no injuries....

[MacNut]

i just hope Griffey can finish this year with no injuries....Griffey who?:p Its ashamed to see what happened to his career. He went from best in the league to barely talked about.

In other news: Pavano is looking like the opening day pitcher for the Yankees.

[Counterfit]

Same for Nomah.

Yankes SP Wang to start season on the DL. ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2810733)

Haha, Pavano for opening day? Watch out for that pile of rust on the mound, his shoulder might be in it.

[Teh Don Ditty]

I hate Carl Pavano. I'm not liking this at all.

[MacNut]

Im gonna give Pavano the benefit that he can still play. Its been a few years so he should be well rested.:p

[swiftaw]

Sounds like the Yankees need Clemens badly

[MacNut]

Sounds like the Yankees need Clemens badlyI don't think so.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Sounds like the Yankees need Clemens badly

Absolutely not. The Yankees have actually done a lot of things right this past off season by getting younger, not older.

Clemens can still pitch, but the Yankees do not need to blow that kind of money on him.

[swiftaw]

I know, but as a Red Sox fan I was hoping they would :)

[MacNut]

I know, but as a Red Sox fan I was hoping they would :)They still will but they don't need him. Not yet at least.

[swiftaw]

Even though I'm a Red Sox fan, I can analyze baseball objectively, and while the Yankees lineup is by far the scariest in baseball (Cano hitting 8th!!!) I would be concerned about their starting pitching. Pavano has been out for ever, Pettite will have to adjust to being back in the AL, Igawa has never pitched outside Japan, and Wang's hamstring could be one of those niggling injuries that bug him all season.

Of course, the Red Sox have their problems too.

[Teh Don Ditty]

An objective Red Sox fan? Whhhhhhhhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaattttttttt? ;)

Not worried at all with the Yankees lineup, more worried about the pitching situation (as you said)

Red Sox lineup has pop (Ortiz and Manny = Disgusting) A good lineup, perhaps a little weak towards the bottom half, but overall it's good. You're pitching will be key this year. (same applies to the rest of the East, well maybe just Toronto :D )

As always it'll be another great year. 19 times during the Regular Season (and it never gets old) and perhaps for the pennant.

[MacNut]

Igawa has never pitched outside Japan,There is a certain Red Sox pitcher that has never pitched outside of Japan either.;)

[fotografica]

Sox and Yanks both have questions/issues in their lineup.As a Sox fan,one of my main concerns is Veritek.He had an awful second half last year,hasn't looked that great in spring training and is pushing mid thirties (tough years on a catcher). Beckett is also a concern.He flourished in the National League,but as most pitchers that come over,struggled in the AL. If he gets off to a rocky start,we'll see how he recovers..I'd still give anything to have Gonzalez back at SS.We're gonna miss his glove this year..I think the success of both teams will depend on the health of their closers,as run production isn't a problem for either team. It'll be a great year in the AL East as usual..

[twoodcc]

Griffey who?:p Its ashamed to see what happened to his career. He went from best in the league to barely talked about.



yeah i know. but i'm still a big fan.....always have been

[mattscott306]

Clemens can still pitch, but the Yankees do not need to blow that kind of money on him.

But thats what the yank's do... they blow money.

[furcalchick]

But thats what the yank's do... they blow money.

at least they make the playoffs a bunch....the mets just blow money and lose alot, which i love because that means the braves keep on winning.

the mets are so dead with their lack of pitching...great offense-pitching=long season. ask the texas rangers.

but lance cormier got hurt, so we're stuck with kyle davies.

[Teh Don Ditty]

But thats what the yank's do... they blow money.

If this was the private forum I would comment on that.... ;)

Anyways, Cashman (by the good grace of Steinbrenner) has actually curbed spending and is rebuidling our destroyed farm system.

[mattscott306]

If this was the private forum I would comment on that.... ;)

Anyways, Cashman (by the good grace of Steinbrenner) has actually curbed spending and is rebuidling our destroyed farm system.

Yah, but still you have some deep pockets over there. I'm thinking we're gonna be a low low salary type team here after we're bought out. (Damn you time warner), but we have always had a decent system under us. I don't know what losing A. Jones is gonna do to us though, It'll suck.

[MacNut]

All teams blow money, how they spend it is the key. The Yankees try to spend it on good players, that not always happens and we end up with some duds or under performers. I think a lot of people don't realize that all teams can spend money. Most choose not too and that shows in the end. The Royals comes to mind as a team that refuses to spend so they are always near the bottom.

[fotografica]

Any word on the pitchers the Yankees got in the Sheffield trade?Anything promising there? And the one they got for Wright?

[furcalchick]

Yah, but still you have some deep pockets over there. I'm thinking we're gonna be a low low salary type team here after we're bought out. (Damn you time warner), but we have always had a decent system under us. I don't know what losing A. Jones is gonna do to us though, It'll suck.

i hate corporate ownership. tw is a big reason why i can't trust corporations with their slimeball tactics. corporations aren't good and wholesome, alot of them use dirty tactics to earn money. earning money is one thing, but unethical tactics are another.

i wish we got a real owner instead of an owner using us for tax breaks. that's all we are to these people...$$$.

[mattscott306]

i hate corporate ownership. tw is a big reason why i can't trust corporations with their slimeball tactics. corporations aren't good and wholesome, alot of them use dirty tactics to earn money. earning money is one thing, but unethical tactics are another.

i wish we got a real owner instead of an owner using us for tax breaks. that's all we are to these people...$$$.

When the arthur blank rumors were flying, I was stoked. I was hoping to be able to keep giles around and buy ourselves a leadoff man, but when that fell through, it kinda deemed the end for me.

I was really hoping Jones would be a brave for life; but I think he knows he's not gonna, and I think who buys the braves knows that he's not gonna.

[furcalchick]

i see instant paycuts, with it going down i say to $40 million in the next few years, and turning us into the old clippers (get young talent and don't give them the money come payday, and never win). i hope not. this team was close to contraction about 20 years ago....

i hate corporations.

[mattscott306]

i see instant paycuts, with it going down i say to $40 million in the next few years, and turning us into the old clippers (get young talent and don't give them the money come payday, and never win). i hope not. this team was close to contraction about 20 years ago....

i hate corporations.

I heard someone talking about the braves being moved from Atlanta to somewhere like Florida (like they need another team!) when all is said and done. Sadly the "Braves Nation" doesn't support our team nearly enough, so who knows, it may happen?

[Teh Don Ditty]

I heard someone talking about the braves being moved from Atlanta to somewhere like Florida (like they need another team!) when all is said and done. Sadly the "Braves Nation" doesn't support our team nearly enough, so who knows, it may happen?

You guys can't even sell out a playoff game (weekday)!!! What is wrong with that picture?

[mattscott306]

You guys can't even sell out a playoff game (weekday)!!! What is wrong with that picture?

After fourteen of 'em they got bored.

[Teh Don Ditty]

After fourteen of 'em they got bored.

That's the attitude that'll lead your team to leave.

Gee only after 26 World Championship and 39 pennants we don't get tired.

[mattscott306]

Hey, not my attitude, its my fellow atlantans. I'd go to every freakin game if I could afford it. I'm the idiot you see on braves vision that gets way to into things.

[Poseidon]

I heard someone talking about the braves being moved from Atlanta to somewhere like Florida (like they need another team!) when all is said and done. Sadly the "Braves Nation" doesn't support our team nearly enough, so who knows, it may happen?

Why would any team want to move down to Florida? The Marlins don't get much support as it is and they have two WS rings to their credit.

[MacNut]

CARACAS, Venezuela -- Former Major League Baseball pitcher Ugueth Urbina was sentenced to 14 years in prison for the attempted murder of five workers on his family's ranch, the Attorney General's Office announced Wednesday.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2815590

[Teh Don Ditty]

HIGH FIVE!!!

Oh, wait. Sucks for him.

Honestly, opening day cannot get here fast enough.

To all Yankee Fans: Anybody else upset that we play the Devil Rays on opening day? I know I am.

[thedude110]

You toss gasoline on these guys then go after them with a machete and you only get 14 years?

So, maybe he didn't do it. But if he did ... god, what a light sentence.

[mattscott306]

To all Yankee Fans: Anybody else upset that we play the Devil Rays on opening day? I know I am.

We actually got lucky, our first two series are against good division teams (Phillies and Mets), I just wish our season opener was at home to. Oh well. I'm 8 days away from my first braves game (that I'll be at) of the season. :D

[xsedrinam]

We open at home with a 3 game series with the Mets. Ready for '07 MLB season to begin.

[mattscott306]

After their poor showing in grapefruit, it should be an interesting start to the season for them. Rough 'em up for us anyways. :)

[Teh Don Ditty]

Honestly, why couldn't the Yankees open with Toronto or the Red Sox? aka somebody that has a good team and has a record above .500

Or hells maybe start with Detroit or the White Sox.

I would say the west coast, but they've been doing that a lot lately.

[Poseidon]

HIGH FIVE!!!

Oh, wait. Sucks for him.

Honestly, opening day cannot get here fast enough.

To all Yankee Fans: Anybody else upset that we play the Devil Rays on opening day? I know I am.


Not the worst thing in the world to start with a cupcake team. Gives your boys a chance to work into the season instead of playing a high pressure game right away against a tough team or high-profile division rival.

[Poseidon]

CARACAS, Venezuela -- Former Major League Baseball pitcher Ugueth Urbina was sentenced to 14 years in prison for the attempted murder of five workers on his family's ranch, the Attorney General's Office announced Wednesday.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2815590

Try and discipline some unruly workers and look what happens to you... :D

[Teh Don Ditty]

Not the worst thing in the world to start with a cupcake team. Gives your boys a chance to work into the season instead of playing a high pressure game right away against a tough team or high-profile division rival.

It's no fun to watch them play the Devil Rays, especially if we shellack them.
Then again, anything is possible with Pavano :shudder: getting the opening day start.

It's alright though, I have Stanley Cup Playoffs to watch before baseball.

[MacNut]

It's no fun to watch them play the Devil Rays, especially if we shellack them.
Then again, anything is possible with Pavano :shudder: getting the opening day start.

It's alright though, I have Stanley Cup Playoffs to watch before baseball.Well the last few years the Devil Rays have kicked us fairly good.

And I hate starting the season on the west coast. I hate 10 pm games the first week.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Well the last few years the Devil Rays have kicked us fairly good.

And I hate starting the season on the west coast. I hate 10 pm games the first week.

I know they have, hence my Pavano line :)

Yea, I don't like starting on the west coast either. Starting against the central wouldve good.

[TheBobcat]

I have to go buy my Zumaya Zone T-Shirt! I'm so stoked, I might be going to the Tigers Opening Day!!!! :D

[swiftaw]

I'm going to Royals opening day on Monday vs Red Sox. As a sox fan i'm pretty excited

[Teh Don Ditty]

I have to go buy my Zumaya Zone T-Shirt! I'm so stoked, I might be going to the Tigers Opening Day!!!! :D

Grrrr....

I'm going to Royals opening day on Monday vs Red Sox. As a sox fan i'm pretty excited

I was gonna say, an excited Royals fan? I didn't know they existed.

[mattscott306]

I have to go buy my Zumaya Zone T-Shirt! I'm so stoked, I might be going to the Tigers Opening Day!!!! :D

We rocked him pretty good what was it, two days ago? Nearly three straight homers. :D

[xsedrinam]

Grrrr....



I was gonna say, an excited Royals fan? I didn't know they existed.
Only the '85 ones, when they stole their one and only World Series from STL on a bad call by Ump, Don Denkinger. Since then, no joy.

[fotografica]

You toss gasoline on these guys then go after them with a machete and you only get 14 years?

So, maybe he didn't do it. But if he did ... god, what a light sentence.

I knew there was something about that guy when he was here :D Little anger management maybe?Rock on Ughee...

[zephead]

Honestly, why couldn't the Yankees open with Toronto or the Red Sox? aka somebody that has a good team and has a record above .500

As of opening day, every team has a .000 record, so it's impossible for them to play anyone over .500. ;)

[Teh Don Ditty]

As of opening day, every team has a .000 record, so it's impossible for them to play anyone over .500. ;)

Smart Ass. Well played sir, well played.

I meant a team that isn't constantly under .500 for numerous seasons.

[xsedrinam]

Well, SI Scouting has picked a '07 World Series with the Angels winning over the Dodgers. Being a National League person, I'd tend to agree with L.A.'s chances of going the distance this year. Their starting rotation has 16+ game winners with Lowe, Randy Wolf (signed for $8M one year, but has a 4.21 ERA?!), Jason Schmidt and Brad Penny.

As to the American League, I don't know what the Yankees will do, though I always know what I hope they do. :) And seeing they have Boston as a Wild Card team is amusing, even if it proves false. Same with the Braves.

Questions about the Mets rotation (ranging from too old, to too wild and inexperienced) will have to be answered. As always, I'm concerned with STL's middle game pitching, a healthy Edmonds, how 2nd Base with Adam Kennedy will fare, and if any of the outfield in RF and LF will deliver more than being predictably rung up at the plate. I'm also pulling for Detroit, though seeing them put just about all their chips on a Sheffield presence in the middle of their lineup hasn't been all that encouraging.

Still haven't forgiven Steinbrenner. Never will, so here we go again, MacNut. You went on about how the Cards didn't deserve to even get to the playoffs last season, let alone win it all. Guess we can pick up where last season left off. :p

[MacNut]

Still haven't forgiven Steinbrenner. Never will, so here we go again, MacNut. You went on about how the Cards didn't deserve to even get to the playoffs last season, let alone win it all. Guess we can pick up where last season left off. :pAll I have to say is....lets go yankees (http://www.thedeadballera.com/yankees.wav):)

[Teh Don Ditty]

All I have to say is....lets go yankees (http://www.thedeadballera.com/yankees.wav)

There it is!!!!

Well played sir, well played.

[xsedrinam]

All I have to say is....lets go yankees (http://www.thedeadballera.com/yankees.wav):)
:D There's no business like show business.

[cycocelica]

World Series: Yankees vs. Dodgers. Yankees by 2.

[MacNut]

There it is!!!!

Well played sir, well played.Thought you would like that.:p

Try this one, http://www.thedeadballera.com/yankeesinstrumental.wav:D There's no business like show business.Actually,
Here Come the Yankees is the official theme song of the New York Yankees baseball team.
It has been the official team anthem since 1967, when it was composed by Bob Bundin and Lou Stallman. Bundin and Stallman were associated at the time with Columbia Records, whose then-owner, the media conglomerate CBS, was also the parent company of the Yankees. It was recorded by the Sid Bass Orchestra and Chorus.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Here_Come_the_Yankees
Y.A.N.K.E.E.S.
Here come the YANKEES
Let's get behind and cheer the YANKEES
They're gonna learn to fear the YANKEES
Everyone knows they play to win, cause

They're the New York YANKEES
Show them today why your the YANKEES
No other way when your the YANKEES
Wadda ya say we win a brand, new, ballgame

We're gonna shout when ya powder the ball
We're gonna scream, "put it over the wall"
The other teams gonna know what it means to play the Y.A.N.K.E.E.S
We love the Yankees
Shout it out loud , We Love The YANKEES
We're really proud of our YANKEES
And we're gonna win today
2, 3, 4, Hit, Run, Fight, Score, Go! Go! Go!

We're gonna shout when ya powder the ball
We're gonna scream "put it over the wall yo"
The other teams gonna know what it means to play the Y.A.N.K.E.E.S
We love the Yankees
Shout it out loud, We Love The YANKEES
We're really proud of our YANKEES
And we're gonna win today

Y.A.N.K.E.E.S. Yes
Y.A.N.K.E.E.S. Yes

[xsedrinam]

That's actually interesting to learn. I've been googling around for a STL Cardinal's Theme Song, but the only thing I'm finding is The Budweiser Theme.

[Poseidon]

That's actually interesting to learn. I've been googling around for a STL Cardinal's Theme Song, but the only thing I'm finding is The Budweiser Theme.


Hrm. I think Tony LaRussa would find that appropriate.... :D

(Go Cubs!)

[Teh Don Ditty]

Hrm. I think Tony LaRussa would find that appropriate.... :D

(Go Cubs!)

Ooooooooooo low blow by the Cubbie Fan.

Well played, however.

[mattscott306]

Hrm. I think Tony LaRussa would find that appropriate.... :D

(Go Cubs!)

I'm sure his soon to be AA membership might frown upon that.

[xsedrinam]

Hrm. I think Tony LaRussa would find that appropriate.... :D

(Go Cubs!)
Yah, I found that song on eBay, too. :D
Surprisingly or not, I think this incident has actually served to endear LaRussa to the St. Louis fan base who grew up with "Whitey Ball" and coaches who had a few beers with the media after the games. Tony's been seen as an "out-sider". Not from Midwest, his friends and circles are Hollywood, etc. Anyway it seems they're willing to forgive and forget.....unless the Cards don't deliver, again.

Oh, and what's this about Steinbrenner's daughter getting a divorce?! Last time I noticed Walt Jocketty's fam was doing okay. :p

[Poseidon]

Ooooooooooo low blow by the Cubbie Fan.

Well played, however.

I was thinking of posting something meaner, about beer-guzzling Cardinals fans, but we're all getting along so well here I thought better of it...:D

Yah, I found that song on eBay, too. :D
Surprisingly or not, I think this incident has actually served to endear LaRussa to the St. Louis fan base who grew up with "Whitey Ball" and coaches who had a few beers with the media after the games. Tony's been seen as an "out-sider". Not from Midwest, his friends and circles are Hollywood, etc. Anyway it seems they're willing to forgive and forget.....unless the Cards don't deliver, again.



Xsedrinam:

One of the Chicago stations I listen to was talking about that same thing - that this incident has seemingly made LaRussa MORE popular with the Cardinals fans. They refered to a recent spring training game and how when LaRussa was announced or came out of the dugout Cardinal fans were actually giving this guy rounds of applause.

I don't really understand it myself; I realize folks want to stand by "their" guy but to applaud someone for doing something that at best was a major lapse in judgement is baffling to me.

[furcalchick]

i'm about ready for the season to start.

how about we make our predictions for the 2007 season now? i say rangers over braves for the world series.

[mattscott306]

i'm about ready for the season to start.

how about we make our predictions for the 2007 season now? i say rangers over braves for the world series.

Hmm... I was thinking it would be the Yanks (honestly) for the AL. I think it'll be Braves and Cubs in the NLCS. The big question is (in my mind) who's got the wildcard.

BTW- It's so impossible to make predictions this far ahead!

[xsedrinam]

Xsedrinam:

One of the Chicago stations I listen to was talking about that same thing - that this incident has seemingly made LaRussa MORE popular with the Cardinals fans. They refered to a recent spring training game and how when LaRussa was announced or came out of the dugout Cardinal fans were actually giving this guy rounds of applause.

I don't really understand it myself; I realize folks want to stand by "their" guy but to applaud someone for doing something that at best was a major lapse in judgement is baffling to me.
"To err is human, to forgive, Divine." Simple as that. LaRussa shows he's human. St. Louis Cardinal fans show they're divine. :p

[Teh Don Ditty]

Matt - I'm surprised you wouldn't put the Mets in the NLCS against your Braves.

We all know that the Braves are not getting there.

Mets/Dodgers in NLCS
Yankees/Angels in ALCS

[xsedrinam]

BTW- It's so impossible to make predictions this far ahead!
Couldn't agree more with you. It's just to get the conversation going. I didn't realize how pumped I was over the beginning of a new MLB season, but any guess...even an educated one, is just that. A guess, and some wishful thinking, on most all our part.

[furcalchick]

Matt - I'm surprised you wouldn't put the Mets in the NLCS against your Braves.

We all know that the Braves are not getting there.

Mets/Dodgers in NLCS
Yankees/Angels in ALCS

ny vs. la? typical. mets aren't any good, as we all know from the rangers the past few years, great hitting - pitching= sub .500 records.

here's my predictions:

nl: braves, astros, padres, giants wild card (just miss the division)
al: yankees, twins, rangers, angels (yes, west power again)

i think the wild card notion is overrated, as last year, the cardinals clinched the division on the last day, a typical wild card feat (the dodgers were in a division battle and settled for a wild card for losing) , so i think it's all about staying hot in october instead of slacking off (see braves), not about the wild card.

i think the cubs won't be much better. mark derosa should really try out for bears qb, as he used to be a qb over at penn.

[Teh Don Ditty]

ny vs. la? typical. mets aren't any good, as we all know from the rangers the past few years, great hitting - pitching= sub .500 records.

here's my predictions:

nl: braves, astros, padres, giants wild card (just miss the division)
al: yankees, twins, rangers, angels (yes, west power again)


The Mets have the hitting, the pitching is in question. And who said I had them beating the Dodgers? ;)

The Mets appear more like an AL team than an NL team, but that's just my $.04

[mattscott306]

The Mets have the hitting, the pitching is in question. And who said I had them beating the Dodgers? ;)

The Mets appear more like an AL team than an NL team, but that's just my $.04

Braves had hitting out the wazoo; yet we still faltered. You need a strong pitching base to win ballgames, its as basic as that.

To answer the previous question, I don't think the mets have pitching to go 160 games, they'll be in a wildcard race and thats it. I'm more worried about the phillies.

[Teh Don Ditty]

Braves had hitting out the wazoo; yet we still faltered. You need a strong pitching base to win ballgames, its as basic as that.

To answer the previous question, I don't think the mets have pitching to go 160 games, they'll be in a wildcard race and thats it. I'm more worried about the phillies.

162 games. Come on man get it right.

Anything is possible. And the Phillies always look dangerous but it seems like they got some sort of Philly Curse on them.

[mattscott306]

162 games. Come on man get it right.

Anything is possible. And the Phillies always look dangerous but it seems like they got some sort of Philly Curse on them.

I was rounding :)

Thats true, the phillies have have always seem to fall short at the end, but I'm still worried about them. The NL should be interesting this year, maybe we can put up a fight in the All Star game (hahaha yeah right)

[furcalchick]

162 games. Come on man get it right.

Anything is possible. And the Phillies always look dangerous but it seems like they got some sort of Philly Curse on them.

i think he means the mets pitching won't last the whole season and they will quit the last two games of the year. and no, they won't be in any race, expect for perhaps third.

and the philly curse is some kind of penn curse (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curse_of_William_Penn), affects all four teams.

[Teh Don Ditty]

i think he means the mets pitching won't last the whole season and they will quit the last two games of the year. and no, they won't be in any race, expect for perhaps third.

and the philly curse is some kind of penn curse (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curse_of_William_Penn), affects all four teams.

I honestly feel that the Mets best chance to win it all was last season, and they blew it. PS: Beltran is still standing at home.

We'll see what happens.

Sucks for all the Philly teams, but the Curse of The Billy Goat is worse.

[mattscott306]

I honestly feel that the Mets best chance to win it all was last season, and they blew it. PS: Beltran is still standing at home.

We'll see what happens.

Sucks for all the Philly teams, but the Curse of The Billy Goat is worse.

1908 :)

I chant that before every cubs game.

[MacNut]

Pre season predictions Updated:

AL East
1. Yankees
2. Red Sox
3. Blue Jays
4. Orioles 5
5. Devil Rays 4

AL Central
1. Tigers
2. White Sox
3. Twins
4. Indians
5. Royals

AL West
1. Oakland
2. Angels
3. Texas
4. Seattle

Wild Card
1. Red Sox
2. Angels
3. White Sox
4. Toronto
5. Twins


NL East
1. Mets
2. Phillies
3. Braves
4. Marlins
5. Nationals

NL Central
1. Cardinals
2. Cubs
3. Astros 4
4. Brewers 3
5. Reds
6. Pirates

NL West
1. Dodgers
2. Giants
3. Padres
4. Arizona
5. Rockies

Wild Card
1. Phillies
2. Giants
3. Cubs
4. Padres
5. Astros

Yankees beat Oakland, Red Sox beat Tigers. Yankees, Red Sox face off in 7, Yankees win.

Cardinals beat Mets, Dodgers beat Phillies, Dodgers beat Cardinals in 6.

Yankees Beat Dodgers in 6 game World Series.

[thedude110]

I honestly feel that the Mets best chance to win it all was last season, and they blew it. PS: Beltran is still standing at home.



I'd agree. Let's face it -- there's only so far the broad shoulders of John Maine will carry the Mets.

Moises Alou is primed for the last big season of his career, though -- the Mets are going to score a lot of runs, and it's more than likely they'll be in the middle of the race come September.

[MacNut]

AL Central
1. Tigers
2. White Sox
3. Twins
4. Indians
5. RoyalsI think the AL Central is up for grabs, Cleveland is improving and I think it will be a tight 4 team race.

[xsedrinam]

So what are you Red Sox fans gonna do with Pesky Johnny (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2819077) this year? He sat in the stands with fans the year you finally recaptured the Title, so there's no superstition involved with him wanting to sit in the dugout. Does he consider himself like a token, icon-mascot or something?

[MacNut]

The Yankees roster is set,
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/teams/roster?team=nyy

[MacNut]

Cheaters never win,:p
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2819167

LAKELAND, Fla. --Kenny Rogers had surgery Friday to remove a blood clot from his left shoulder and repair arteries, and the Detroit Tigers pitcher likely will be sidelined for the first half of the season.

The 42-year-old left-hander had the operation in Dallas. He is expected to start throwing in six-to-eight weeks, and Tigers president Dave Dombrowski said the earliest Rogers would return to the rotation is July.

Detroit placed Rogers on the 15-day disabled list on Thursday. Chad Durbin, who made the team as a reliever, will move into the Tigers' rotation.

[xsedrinam]

I didn't think Pine Tar could seep through the skin and cause those kinds of complications. :) Hope he's okay, though his sitting out 'til the break will take some wins away from Detroit.

[Poseidon]

I didn't think Pine Tar could seep through the skin and cause those kinds of complications. :) Hope he's okay, though his sitting out 'til the break will take some wins away from Detroit.


That wasn't pine tar - it was dirt! How could you even think that an older pitcher with a history of bad decision making would need or use an illegal substance....

Oh... never mind.

[fotografica]

So what are you Red Sox fans gonna do with Pesky Johnny (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2819077) this year? He sat in the stands with fans the year you finally recaptured the Title, so there's no superstition involved with him wanting to sit in the dugout. Does he consider himself like a token, icon-mascot or something?

We'll be just fine and somehow we'll find the inner strength and fortitude to overcome this..I've got to go and start talking people down off the Tobin Bridge....Maybe he can be a greeter,or hawk some peanuts or something ;)

[xsedrinam]

We'll be just fine and somehow we'll find the inner strength and fortitude to overcome this..I've got to go and start talking people down off the Tobin Bridge....Maybe he can be a greeter,or hawk some peanuts or something ;)
:D A good Spanish saying comes to mind: "Cada loco con su tema." The first baseball glove I ever owned was a Johnny Pesky autographed. :)

[thedude110]

So what are you Red Sox fans gonna do with Pesky Johnny (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2819077) this year? He sat in the stands with fans the year you finally recaptured the Title, so there's no superstition involved with him wanting to sit in the dugout. Does he consider himself like a token, icon-mascot or something?

I wouldn't say an icon-mascot -- I'd say a guy who needs not just the organization, but the regularity of being with the team, and of wearing the uniform, etc.

And I think the rule is ridiculous. I'd understand if teams were getting an extra coach out of the deal, but that's certainly not the case with Pesky. And doesn't Bud have other things to deal with -- from teams stealing signs with outfiled cameras to players using illegal substances to having to deal with John Kerry?

It baffles me that with all that's wrong with the game MLB would spend its time trying to police an old man out of his needs.

[xsedrinam]

I wouldn't say an icon-mascot -- I'd say a guy who needs not just the organization, but the regularity of being with the team, and of wearing the uniform, etc.

And I think the rule is ridiculous. I'd understand if teams were getting an extra coach out of the deal, but that's certainly not the case with Pesky. And doesn't Bud have other things to deal with -- from teams stealing signs with outfiled cameras to players using illegal substances to having to deal with John Kerry?

It baffles me that with all that's wrong with the game MLB would spend its time trying to police an old man out of his needs.
That's the way it hit me, too, when reading about it. So, what's the big deal? An 85 year old baseball legend loves being near the game and its people, isn't disruptive and isn't costing anything to fans or management by sitting in the dugout with the team. In fact, wouldn't his not occupying a seat in the stands make way for another season ticket holder to experience the Red Sox aura?

By the book isn't always the better option, imo.

[MacNut]

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/official_info/official_rules/game_preliminaries_3.jsp3.17
Players and substitutes of both teams shall confine themselves to their team’s benches unless actually participating in the play or preparing to enter the game, or coaching at first or third base. No one except players, substitutes, managers, coaches, trainers and bat boys shall occupy a bench during a game.
PENALTY: For violation the umpire may, after warning, remove the offender from the field.
Rule 3.17 Comment: Players on the disabled list are permitted to participate in pre-game activity and sit on the bench during a game but may not take part in any activity during the game such as warming up a pitcher, bench-jockeying, etc. Disabled players are not allowed to enter the playing surface at any time or for any purpose during the game.

[xsedrinam]

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/official_info/official_rules/game_preliminaries_3.jsp
They admit they've been breaking the rules. They've also bent the rules over this in the past. Now, with Garagiola Jr. & Co., it's time to crack down on these ruthless rule breakers? :)

[bluewire]

Cheaters never win,:p
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2819167

LAKELAND, Fla. --Kenny Rogers had surgery Friday to remove a blood clot from his left shoulder and repair arteries, and the Detroit Tigers pitcher likely will be sidelined for the first half of the season.

The 42-year-old left-hander had the operation in Dallas. He is expected to start throwing in six-to-eight weeks, and Tigers president Dave Dombrowski said the earliest Rogers would return to the rotation is July.

Detroit placed Rogers on the 15-day disabled list on Thursday. Chad Durbin, who made the team as a reliever, will move into the Tigers' rotation.

Couldn't happen to a nicer guy. :p

[MacNut]

They admit they've been breaking the rules. They've also bent the rules over this in the past. Now, with Garagiola Jr. & Co., it's time to crack down on these ruthless rule breakers? :)His name is pesky for a reason, he won't leave.:p

[fotografica]

And doesn't Bud have other things to deal with -- from teams stealing signs with outfiled cameras to players using illegal substances to having to deal with John Kerry?

It baffles me that with all that's wrong with the game MLB would spend its time trying to police an old man out of his needs.
Exactly!!!..With all that's wrong with baseball,the MLB rules committee ACTUALLY spent time on this matter??:rolleyes: Another stellar example of why this league needs an actual commissioner who's concerned about the game and its current state...

[MacNut]

Exactly!!!..With all that's wrong with baseball,the MLB rules committee ACTUALLY spent time on this matter??:rolleyes: Another stellar example of why this league needs an actual commissioner who's concerned about the game and its current state...Its a minor thing and its been a rule for a while, no other team is complaining about this but the Red Sox. The rules committee has added a lot of good rules this year so don't say they don't do anything. Aside from Barry Bonds I don't think there is much wrong with the game right now.

[mattscott306]

Its a minor thing and its been a rule for a while, no other team is complaining about this but the Red Sox. The rules committee has added a lot of good rules this year so don't say they don't do anything. Aside from Barry Bonds I don't think there is much wrong with the game right now.

Not just bonds but the whole issue of 'roids. It's kind of embarrasing that our government has to step in to clean up where Selig cant.

But, while we're talking about bonds, I would rather seem him break his arm, wrist, leg, chestbone, foot, or any other thing this season to stop him from breaking Hank's record. It's a total cock of shiz that his name will even be mentioned with the great one. What are they gonna do put up at Aterisk by his home run number and way down at the bottom of the record sheets say "Steroid usage"?

I look forward to being part of the booing section when they come into town, and I swear that if he breaks the record while his in town and I catch that ball, I'm throwing it right back, eject me or not.

[fotografica]

Its a minor thing and its been a rule for a while, no other team is complaining about this but the Red Sox. The rules committee has added a lot of good rules this year so don't say they don't do anything. Aside from Barry Bonds I don't think there is much wrong with the game right now.

I wouldn't exactly say the Red Sox are complaining about it :rolleyes: If you read the linked article,the Sox are basically saying the rule is the rule.Far from complaining.I would say the roids issue is a major problem now and has been for some time.It has the potential for casting a huge shadow on the game and some of its records...And I'm sure that's the only time Sammy used a corked bat? ;)

[MacNut]

I hope Bonds does it in New York, that would be Selig's worst nightmare.

[fotografica]

I hope Bonds does it in New York, that would be Selig's worst nightmare.

Nope.Selig's worst nightmare would be if he broke the record in Atlanta.You'd have to hide all of Bud's shoelaces and belts..

[MacNut]

Nope.Selig's worst nightmare would be if he broke the record in Atlanta.You'd have to hide all of Bud's shoelaces and belts..It's not going to be pretty anywhere outside of SF.

[fotografica]

It's not going to be pretty anywhere outside of SF.

Selig's gotta be pinching and sweating bigtime..And it couldn't have happened to a nicer guy..

[MacNut]

It might be time to bring back the Barry Bonds (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=185278) thread.

[fotografica]

As far as I'm concerned,Maris still holds the record for most HR's in a season..

[MacNut]

As far as I'm concerned,Maris still holds the record for most HR's in a season..I agree with that. I think a lot of others agree.

[fotografica]

What amazes me most,is that Maris' record stood for all those years.Then all of a sudden,in one hot summer (98) HR's were leaving the ballpark like it was batting practice.And from that year on,guys were jacking 65+ HRs a year on a regular basis. And the guys hitting them,went from string beans and javelins, to over sized,muscled hulks.And then,after scrutiny,they returned to a more normal size,and HR production dropped off....