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2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/18 14:15:11


Post by: BigWaaagh


Yeah, I know it's really early for baseball, but I saw this and thought I'd share. Oh, sweet mother of God is all I have to say!! I love watching a pitcher that throws the unholy speed just decimate batters. Hopefully this kid is the real deal.

http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/michael-kopech-clocked-at-110-mph-on-throw/ar-AAlY09K?li=BBnbfcL&ocid=ASUDHP


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/18 16:11:56


Post by: Nevelon


The Cubs won last year. WTH is 2017 going to do to top that?

Baseball should just hang it up, it’s all downhill from here.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/18 16:18:11


Post by: Alpharius


The Cubs have a good shot to win it all this year too.

I'd love for the Red Sox to be the contender on the AL side, but with Papi gone and counting on Pablo for...anything?

Not so sure.

They'll be good though, so it will be a fin summer!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/18 16:19:42


Post by: jasper76


I haven't been keeping up with the off-season news, but there was a Pirates-Brewers game on TV the other day. Not sure of it was an exhibition game or a replay, but it felt like mana from heaven to watch baseball again. Totally looking forward to the 2017 season. Go O's!



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/18 16:31:34


Post by: curran12


From the Northwest, I'll go with the safe bet. The Mariners will diddle about around .500 for most of the season, occasionally showing glimpses of good quality mixed with the usual 5-10 game slides.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/20 16:55:36


Post by: jasper76


Looks like the Os have signed Trumbo to a 3 year deal. We still got the power in place.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/20 21:12:31


Post by: nels1031


 jasper76 wrote:
Looks like the Os have signed Trumbo to a 3 year deal. We still got the power in place.


In my opinion, the O's need solid, consistent hitters to supplement him though. I think something like 70% of Trumbo's homers were single run bombs. They're nice and sometimes game changers, but that's just not enough in AL East.

Depending on the long ball has been our downfall for a few seasons, and pitching... mostly pitching.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/20 23:24:23


Post by: jasper76


No arguments here. Damn we need some reliable pitching, for sure.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/21 00:21:45


Post by: Peregrine


 curran12 wrote:
From the Northwest, I'll go with the safe bet. The Mariners will diddle about around .500 for most of the season, occasionally showing glimpses of good quality mixed with the usual 5-10 game slides.


Safe bet. On the good side football season starts again soon!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/31 00:37:05


Post by: whembly


Punishment for the hacking has been handed down:
http://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/mlb-hammers-cardinals-over-hack-first-two-draft-picks-million/article_bfe37c71-a48c-57be-98ed-1c5dec2eee93.html

First 2 draft picks and 2 million dollar fine... sent to the Astros.

Seems too light imo...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/01/31 13:03:30


Post by: kronk


 whembly wrote:


Seems too light imo...


Agreed! We should also get their stadium's beer revenue for the next 4 years, all of Ozzie Smith's Golden Gloves, and Nell Carter's Tony Awards.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/21 20:53:07


Post by: jasper76


Bullgak! The Orioles lost Matt Weiters...he signed with the fething Nationals. Traitor!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/21 21:17:48


Post by: nels1031


Saw it coming. Was surprised that he signed on for last year. I for sure thought he was going to the Yanks.

I felt in the last couple of years(this last year particularly) he became lazy/slow. There were quite a few plays where it looked like he was putting forth no effort. May have been injured, but I didn't think the O's were going to resign him.

Hopefully we got some young buck to replace him, as Caleb Joseph won't cut it.

Just saw that Wieters' agent has 11 client/players on the Nationals roster. Holy feth!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/21 21:33:57


Post by: jasper76


Yep, I don't feel too confident in Caleb Joseph's catching, and he brings almost nothing to the plate with his bat.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/22 12:29:54


Post by: jasper76


Looks like MLB will be adopting a new rule for intentional walks. The dugout will now be able to signal to the umpire to walk the batter, rather than the pitcher having to throw 4 pitches outside the strike zone.

I don't like it. Keeps the pitchers arm fresher, and doesn't allow for mistakes the pitcher or catcher might make when trying to throw and catch outside the strike zone.

I guess it might have some miniscule effect on moving the game along.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/22 15:07:18


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 curran12 wrote:
From the Northwest, I'll go with the safe bet. The Mariners will diddle about around .500 for most of the season, occasionally showing glimpses of good quality mixed with the usual 5-10 game slides.



Nah mate... the M's will get off to a blazing start, like... 15-5 and fans will get excited (as they do every year) and with a decent lead in the AL West at the ASB, they will fall back to a 3rd or 4th place finish.


I'm predicting that the Yankees, with their off-season additions, as well as the continuing success of the Baby Bombers, are going to do much better this year, with a very good shot at #28.


Also... I'm not really a fan of the proposed walk rule either.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/22 16:09:52


Post by: shiner


No more intentional walks. Blasphemy.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
 curran12 wrote:
From the Northwest, I'll go with the safe bet. The Mariners will diddle about around .500 for most of the season, occasionally showing glimpses of good quality mixed with the usual 5-10 game slides.


Well, I'm a Brewers fan sooooo... that sounds like a fantastic season!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/22 16:56:35


Post by: curran12


I guess I will be the odd man out here in saying that I really don't mind the intentional walk rule change. It's just cutting out a 4-toss game of catch and keeping the game moving. An intentional walk was basically a commercial break anyway, so just do away with it.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/22 20:21:26


Post by: jasper76


 curran12 wrote:
I guess I will be the odd man out here in saying that I really don't mind the intentional walk rule change. It's just cutting out a 4-toss game of catch and keeping the game moving. An intentional walk was basically a commercial break anyway, so just do away with it.


But...but...what if you have a man on base, and the catcher misses the catch. You're robbing the opposing team of a chance to steal bases.

Not sure if it's ever happened in an MLB game, but it could, dammit!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/22 20:24:24


Post by: whembly


I'm okay with this idea...

But, the real change needed is for the NL to adopt the DH rule. The 'double-switch' in removing your starting pitcher with a bench bat and placing the relief pitcher's battle slot elsewhere adds a ton of stoppage.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/22 20:26:27


Post by: jasper76


 whembly wrote:
I'm okay with this idea...

But, the real change needed is for the NL to adopt the DH rule. The 'double-switch' in removing your starting pitcher with a bench bat and placing the relief pitcher's battle slot elsewhere adds a ton of stoppage.


Even though I'm an O's fan, I rather like the strategy element that no DH adds to the game, and I think it's the superior system. But it does add a bunch of time. I don't mind, I like baseball because of the zen of it.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/23 04:42:01


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 jasper76 wrote:

But...but...what if you have a man on base, and the catcher misses the catch. You're robbing the opposing team of a chance to steal bases.

Not sure if it's ever happened in an MLB game, but it could, dammit!



I seem to remember a base or two have been stolen this way???? Rather, not that the catcher misses is, but you get a real speedster on base, and a pitcher who, even when throwing intentional balls is "slow" to the plate, and he gets a good jump...


Maybe I'm crazy and making gak up, but I could swear I've seen it in the MLB.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
 jasper76 wrote:
I don't mind, I like baseball because of the zen of it.


I don't mind either, but there are limits... I'm a Yankees fan, and even *I* hate when you get a BOS-NYY series going, it's three hours into the game and we're only in the top of the 4th inning. (that may be a slight exaggeration there), and I do remember a couple Baseball writers calling the "timer rules" being thrown around the "Yankees Rule" or the "Red Sox rule" or some combination of them. Our teams were pretty damn good at stalling/slowing games down.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/23 13:54:43


Post by: kronk


 jasper76 wrote:
 whembly wrote:
I'm okay with this idea...

But, the real change needed is for the NL to adopt the DH rule. The 'double-switch' in removing your starting pitcher with a bench bat and placing the relief pitcher's battle slot elsewhere adds a ton of stoppage.


Even though I'm an O's fan, I rather like the strategy element that no DH adds to the game, and I think it's the superior system. But it does add a bunch of time. I don't mind, I like baseball because of the zen of it.


I used to be a die-hard NL is best way, make the pitcher hit, feth the DH kinda guy. Rabble, Rabble.

Now, as I'm older and more calm, and accept that athletes are very specialized in what they do and don't do, do I really want to watch a pitcher take an at-bat? A handful of them hit very well, a few more are decent. The rest? Nah, I'd rather see an aging, fat-ass that's 20 homers from 500 stretch out 2 more years of play time.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/23 14:42:31


Post by: shiner


But...but...what if you have a man on base, and the catcher misses the catch. You're robbing the opposing team of a chance to steal bases.

Not sure if it's ever happened in an MLB game, but it could, dammit!


It's happened more times than you think. I was at a game where the ball was thrown over the catchers head on the 4th pitch of an intentional walk, and the winning run came in to score.

Then, of course there's this:


I'm going to miss the intentional walk. RIP :(


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/23 14:44:15


Post by: nels1031


Of course that happened to my O's!

Someone did it last season too, I'm sure of it. Think it was in the NL.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/02/23 15:13:11


Post by: complex57


MLB predictions for 2017 eh?

I predict that I will wind up going to 5 games down at Busch Stadium with my buddies. My buddies and I will have a good time and get heartburn from the nachos.

Cubs will play good ball and probably win the Central Division. I might get to go to a game at Wrigley this year depending on how work and family stuff pans out.

Cards will get a wildcard bid and hopefully upset the Cubbies in the playoffs before playing for the championship (AS IT SHOULD BE).

Please Note: Do not place any faith or money on my ability to make valid predictions - I grew up sure that I would be over 6 feet tall and filthy rich by now.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/08 12:25:57


Post by: nels1031


I'm going to make an effort to watch the World Baseball Classic this year. After watching my O's (sans the traitorous Manny Machado and another O's player that I can't remember) play and barely defeat the absolutely stacked Dominican Republic team, I think it'll be fun.

Wasn't planning on watching any baseball prior to opening day, but I need my fix!



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/16 14:04:40


Post by: techsoldaten


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
I don't mind either, but there are limits... I'm a Yankees fan, and even *I* hate when you get a BOS-NYY series going, it's three hours into the game and we're only in the top of the 4th inning. (that may be a slight exaggeration there), and I do remember a couple Baseball writers calling the "timer rules" being thrown around the "Yankees Rule" or the "Red Sox rule" or some combination of them. Our teams were pretty damn good at stalling/slowing games down.


This is true, but (generally) only when both teams are competitive. I do a lot of painting during these series.

Mookie Betts reminds me more and more of young Derek Jeter. I know NYY has some young talent competing for jobs this year, but I doubt they are coming up with someone of his level of talent.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/16 14:53:14


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 techsoldaten wrote:

Mookie Betts reminds me more and more of young Derek Jeter. I know NYY has some young talent competing for jobs this year, but I doubt they are coming up with someone of his level of talent.


Did you watch Gary Sanchez at the end of last season (and how during Spring Training, it looks as if he's just left off)?? Dude almost won ROY awards for his record setting performances. Then there's Judge, Aaron Hicks and others who I would definitely put on the level of Betts. I was just watching a game yesterday, and the commentary was talking about how something like 7 of the top 10 "throwing velocity" measurements of outfielder arms last season, came from Hicks, including #1 in which he threw a dude out from deep left-center field. Dude's got a serious arm out there, and a good glove and, from what I'm seeing right now, he's getting much better at bats right now.

Long story short, yeah, I think we got a bunch of young and talented players that are at least on the level with Betts. Now, we just have to see if they can stay healthy, and who stays with the big club in the next couple weeks.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/19 05:06:24


Post by: nels1031


WBC : USA vs. Dominican Republic is an amazing game!!!

Adam Jones robbing a homerun from his MLB teammate Manny Macahdo! Highlight reel catch!

Final: USA knocks out the defending champs! Onwards to Los Angeles vs Japan!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/22 04:24:04


Post by: nels1031


Team USA defeats the previously undefeated Japan to face Puerto Rico for the Championship!!!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/22 13:36:32


Post by: Alpharius


I love the WBC - as long as players from my team - and especially pitchers - aren't playing/getting hurt!

So, aside from that, GO USA!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/22 13:39:52


Post by: whembly


 Alpharius wrote:
I love the WBC - as long as players from my team - and especially pitchers - aren't playing/getting hurt!

So, aside from that, GO USA!

Well there's Team USA and then there's Team USA (Puerto Rico).

USA already won.

Go Yadier Molina!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/22 17:21:24


Post by: Alpharius


Good point - it is already over!!!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/03/23 03:58:02


Post by: nels1031


7-0 USA so far!


Automatically Appended Next Post:
And USA are Champs for the first time!

Never seen an 8-0 game with the stadium packed like that at the end. Classy Puerto Rican team remaining on the field, clapping, real great sportsmanship! Of course, as stated above, its sorta their win too.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/06 15:55:53


Post by: jasper76


I am so loving the sweet sweet revenge the Orioles are exacting against the Blue Jays.

And I'm so happy baseball is back!



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/06 16:04:29


Post by: kronk


Astros starting off strong, including the 13th inning walk-off last night.

Let me curse our season with bad luck right now and get it over with: Go 'Stros!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/08 02:20:41


Post by: jasper76


Nailbiter in Baltimore tonight. Orioles 6, Yankees 5 going into the top of the 9th.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
And Britton gets yet another Save for the Os. Best Closer in the game today.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/15 01:39:35


Post by: nels1031


Homeplate umpire just got rocked hard by a foul tip right to the face in Toronto v. Baltimore. Neck braced him and carted him off. Hope he's ok.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/15 02:03:39


Post by: jasper76


 nels1031 wrote:
Homeplate umpire just got rocked hard by a foul tip right to the face in Toronto v. Baltimore. Neck braced him and carted him off. Hope he's ok.


No doubt, hope he comes out OK. Some of those umps are fairly old.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/15 03:49:33


Post by: nels1031


I'm sure I'll eat these words later in the season, but I love seeing Toronto in the midst of a franchise record terrible start. Particularly love watching Grilli get tuned up, first on opening day by Trumbo, and again by Smith in the 9th tonight. Dude is a spazz.

Once the bats of Toronto come back to life, they'll be a force again, I'm sure.

People are starting to put wood on Zach Brittons pitching, which worries me. O'day makes me nervous every time he takes the mound and Ubaldo will cause me to kill my liver. Its going to be a wild ride.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/15 17:30:14


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 nels1031 wrote:
I'm sure I'll eat these words later in the season, but I love seeing Toronto in the midst of a franchise record terrible start. Particularly love watching Grilli get tuned up, first on opening day by Trumbo, and again by Smith in the 9th tonight. Dude is a spazz.

Once the bats of Toronto come back to life, they'll be a force again, I'm sure.

People are starting to put wood on Zach Brittons pitching, which worries me. O'day makes me nervous every time he takes the mound and Ubaldo will cause me to kill my liver. Its going to be a wild ride.



Meanwhile, the Yanks are having a fairly decent start. Doesn't look like anyone is ice cold, nor scorching hot. Pitching is doing fairly well, and while it's very early on, the bullpen has a Majors leading ERA.

Ohh, and we beat the Cardinals last night


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/20 02:01:27


Post by: jasper76


 nels1031 wrote:
Ubaldo will cause me to kill my liver. Its going to be a wild ride.



Ubaldo was in beast mode tonight. He can pitch the lights out when he's on his game.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/20 14:14:01


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


Watching the Yankees last night, and Holy Gak, Aaron Judge hit an absolute monster home run that landed half way up the upper bleachers section in left field. The official measurement was 458 ft. but it certainly *looked* much bigger than that.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/20 14:23:28


Post by: jasper76


Looks so far like the AL East is gonna come down between the Os, the Yanks, and the Sox.

I haven't shed any tears over the Jays occupying the basement.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/20 14:46:48


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 jasper76 wrote:

I haven't shed any tears over the Jays occupying the basement.


lol, me either.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/standings/index.jsp


I know it's early, but I think the AL East is a 3 horse race already, same as NL West (I was watching a game the other night and the commentary was talking about the Padres actually *trying* to tank this year in order to build the farm). The AL West and NL Central are both divisions that I think we will see more separation soon-ish. I haven't watched much of the NL East, but to me, looking on paper, it looks like that one will be a 3 horse race between the Nats, Mets, and Marlins.

The division that looks the craziest to me is the AL Central. You've basically got an entire division at .500, and no team looks great, but doesn't look terrible. IMO, they all look like they are good playoff teams that have holes here or there. Obviously, we'll have to see how this season plays out, which teams get the DL bug and which don't, etc.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 00:25:22


Post by: nels1031


 jasper76 wrote:
Looks so far like the AL East is gonna come down between the Os, the Yanks, and the Sox.

I haven't shed any tears over the Jays occupying the basement.


And the somewhat decent Rays will keep it interesting and play the spoiler to any of those 3 teams that don't keep their gak together.

Had some drama in last nights Boston v. B-more game. Going to be interesting to see how it plays out for the rest of the season. I think it will taper off, Pedroia and Machado are friends, so it will probably be a non-issue going forward. But if not, its going to be intense when these two teams play from here on out.




2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 01:37:28


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 nels1031 wrote:

Had some drama in last nights Boston v. B-more game. Going to be interesting to see how it plays out for the rest of the season. I think it will taper off, Pedroia and Machado are friends, so it will probably be a non-issue going forward. But if not, its going to be intense when these two teams play from here on out.



If that's true, then maybe Pedroia ought to talk to the pitching staff a bit more before more of them get hit with 4+ game suspensions. I honestly have no idea what went down, but I saw on the sidebar of FB that one of the Sox pitchers got 4 games for throwing at Machado.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 01:38:50


Post by: Alpharius


It is always anyways!

And Buck Showalter has to be the douchiest of douchebag managers going right now - even out-Scioscia'ing Mike Scioscia.

Or maybe Mike Scioscia can't Showalter as 'well' as...Showalter?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 02:00:11


Post by: nels1031


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
 nels1031 wrote:

Had some drama in last nights Boston v. B-more game. Going to be interesting to see how it plays out for the rest of the season. I think it will taper off, Pedroia and Machado are friends, so it will probably be a non-issue going forward. But if not, its going to be intense when these two teams play from here on out.



If that's true, then maybe Pedroia ought to talk to the pitching staff a bit more before more of them get hit with 4+ game suspensions. I honestly have no idea what went down, but I saw on the sidebar of FB that one of the Sox pitchers got 4 games for throwing at Machado.


Here's a breakdown:

Spoiler:
Dustin Pedroia effectively rendered a decision about his teammates’ actions in the Manny Machado affair Sunday, about 24 hours before Major League Baseball issued the terms of discipline against pitcher Matt Barnes and the Boston Red Sox on Monday.

After Pedroia called the Red Sox's retaliation attempt against Machado a “mishandled situation” and apologized to Machado and the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday afternoon, all that was left for MLB to do, really, was identify the appropriate level of penalty. Barnes was given a four-game suspension and a fine for nearly hitting Machado in the head with a fastball.

The penalty for Machado, who injured Pedroia with a slide Friday night? Nothing.

The penalty for any other member of the Orioles? Nothing.

That is exactly how it should’ve come down after a weekend in which the Red Sox seemed to wait and waffle in their response to Machado’s slide before completely botching the whole thing Sunday. The best part of the incident was that Machado was able to walk out of Camden Yards, rather than being wheeled out on a stretcher. The Orioles, on the other hand, were a model of comportment in the aftermath of Machado’s slide -- starting with Machado himself, who immediately reached out to Pedroia empathetically, both on the field and with a text message.


Dustin Pedroia was in obvious pain after Manny Machado slid into him. Matt Hazlett/Getty Images
The 33-year-old Pedroia was drafted by the Red Sox in 2004 and immediately became a favorite within the organization for his passion, confidence and accountability. He won the Rookie of the Year Award in 2007 and the AL MVP Award in 2008 and was integral to Boston’s championships in 2007 and 2013, while inspiring about a billion stories with his blunt humor. It had to have been upsetting to Red Sox players when they saw Pedroia struggle to get to his feet after Machado clipped him just above the ankle with his slide. It seemed to upset Machado too; this is the sort of respect Pedroia has engendered.

But the immediate reaction among a lot of players and executives on other teams about Machado’s slide was that it wasn’t really that out of line.

“It was kind of an awkward slide,” one scout said. “Because he started a little late. But when he went down, his feet popped up. It wasn’t like he targeted [Pedroia].”

From a player: “What’s all the talk about? His foot bounced up, and he hit Pedroia accidentally. ... Anybody who reads intent on that play is imagining things. He wasn’t trying to hurt him.”

"What's all the talk about? His foot bounced up, and he hit Pedroia accidentally. ... Anybody who reads intent on that play is imagining things. He wasn't trying to hurt him."
MLB player on Machado's slide into Pedroia
Still, it wouldn’t have been a surprise if the Red Sox had some kind of proportional response Saturday, even after Pedroia indicated to reporters that he personally didn’t have any trouble with Machado’s slide; he said he wasn’t the slide police. If knuckleballer Steven Wright had bounced a fastball off Machado’s calf or thrown a pitch behind him Saturday, it probably wouldn’t have surprised anybody on the Orioles’ side.

You do wonder if somebody in the Red Sox clubhouse was spurred into action by outside forces: In at least one case, a reporter suggested that retaliation against Machado would be appropriate, and there were other tweets and words that went almost as far.

There is some precedent for the media fueling this sort of thing. Years ago, after Roger Clemens threw a shattered bat in the direction of New York Mets catcher Mike Piazza in the 2000 World Series, there was such enormous media scrutiny leading up to Clemens’s next game at Shea Stadium that Shawn Estes -- who wasn't even on the 2000 Mets -- felt compelled to flip a half-hearted fastball in Clemens’ direction in the batter’s box.

Whether the Red Sox sincerely believed that Machado had crossed the line or they allowed themselves to be bullied by media expectations, Eduardo Rodriguez seemed to finally attempt retaliation against Machado on Sunday. In Machado’s third plate appearance, Rodriguez repeatedly -- and carefully -- threw the ball down and way inside to Machado, who stepped around the pitches.

If all of the Red Sox had followed one of the unwritten rules of situations such as this, that attempt would’ve ended the matter.

“Once you take a shot at somebody like that,” one team staffer said Sunday evening, “that’s it. If you missed him, that’s on you.”

Instead, Barnes threw a fastball behind Machado’s head, the placement a lot of hitters consider the most dangerous because the reflex is to duck backward from an inside fastball. The pitch missed Machado, Barnes was ejected, and Pedroia looked over at Machado in the on-deck circle and separated himself from the choices made by others, saying: That wasn’t me.


On Monday, there was a lot of speculation around baseball that Pedroia might have to make amends with others wearing Red Sox uniforms after he criticized his team’s actions. But Pedroia seemed intent on trying to do the right thing, and so did the Orioles.

Machado has charged a mound before and has made more than his share of mistakes. Lessons can be learned, however, and after Barnes’s beanball attempt, the 24-year-old Machado said nothing to the pitcher and made no move toward the mound. No Oriole did.

It would be reasonable to assume that the Orioles at least discussed possible retaliation, but no Baltimore pitcher used a baseball as a weapon against a prone and helpless target. Neither Mookie Betts nor Andrew Benintendi was treated as a human piñata.

The Orioles did all the right stuff in an incident that escalated from something unfortunate into something colossally ridiculous and dangerous, and Major League Baseball was right to assign all blame and the discipline to the Red Sox.



Automatically Appended Next Post:
 Alpharius wrote:
It is always anyways!

And Buck Showalter has to be the douchiest of douchebag managers going right now - even out-Scioscia'ing Mike Scioscia.

Or maybe Mike Scioscia can't Showalter as 'well' as...Showalter?


Wuuuuut!?



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 02:42:42


Post by: Alpharius


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
 nels1031 wrote:

Had some drama in last nights Boston v. B-more game. Going to be interesting to see how it plays out for the rest of the season. I think it will taper off, Pedroia and Machado are friends, so it will probably be a non-issue going forward. But if not, its going to be intense when these two teams play from here on out.



If that's true, then maybe Pedroia ought to talk to the pitching staff a bit more before more of them get hit with 4+ game suspensions. I honestly have no idea what went down, but I saw on the sidebar of FB that one of the Sox pitchers got 4 games for throwing at Machado.


Earlier in the series, Machado slid way too late, kinda sort hurt Pedroia , but it didn't look, for lack of a better term, 'too intentional'.

Then, as most baseball teams do, the Sox 'got him back' a game or so later, but unfortunately Barnes was an idiot and, instead of throwing at Machado's legs, he threw at his head, so he gets a suspension he definitely deserves.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 04:08:03


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 Alpharius wrote:
 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
 nels1031 wrote:

Had some drama in last nights Boston v. B-more game. Going to be interesting to see how it plays out for the rest of the season. I think it will taper off, Pedroia and Machado are friends, so it will probably be a non-issue going forward. But if not, its going to be intense when these two teams play from here on out.



If that's true, then maybe Pedroia ought to talk to the pitching staff a bit more before more of them get hit with 4+ game suspensions. I honestly have no idea what went down, but I saw on the sidebar of FB that one of the Sox pitchers got 4 games for throwing at Machado.


Earlier in the series, Machado slid way too late, kinda sort hurt Pedroia , but it didn't look, for lack of a better term, 'too intentional'.

Then, as most baseball teams do, the Sox 'got him back' a game or so later, but unfortunately Barnes was an idiot and, instead of throwing at Machado's legs, he threw at his head, so he gets a suspension he definitely deserves.


Yeah, I was scrolling through FB, saw MLB Network/Smoltz coverage of it, including the incident.. . . The slide, to me, looked wholly incidental. Like, yeah, it was a bit late, but he wasn't going in intentionally spikes high. He was spikes high because it looked more like he slid to keep from tripping/falling over himself.


And, in regard to the video I was watching, Smoltzey is definitely correct: When a manager makes the call to retaliate, the veteran pitcher or whatever that does the retaliation does it the "right way." This, as Pedroia's reaction indicates, was Barnes taking things into his own hands, almost like Farrell (or whoever the Sox manager is these days) talked with Pedroia, saw what happened and determined that things were settled. . . . Apparently someone needs to put it on official Memos for someone like Barnes.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 11:40:00


Post by: jasper76


 Alpharius wrote:
It is always anyways!

And Buck Showalter has to be the douchiest of douchebag managers going right now - even out-Scioscia'ing Mike Scioscia.

Or maybe Mike Scioscia can't Showalter as 'well' as...Showalter?


With all due respect, what on earth are you talking about? Showalter is probably one of the classiest, inherently decent, and well respected managers in the game.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 14:18:31


Post by: Alpharius


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
 Alpharius wrote:
 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
 nels1031 wrote:

Had some drama in last nights Boston v. B-more game. Going to be interesting to see how it plays out for the rest of the season. I think it will taper off, Pedroia and Machado are friends, so it will probably be a non-issue going forward. But if not, its going to be intense when these two teams play from here on out.



If that's true, then maybe Pedroia ought to talk to the pitching staff a bit more before more of them get hit with 4+ game suspensions. I honestly have no idea what went down, but I saw on the sidebar of FB that one of the Sox pitchers got 4 games for throwing at Machado.


Earlier in the series, Machado slid way too late, kinda sort hurt Pedroia , but it didn't look, for lack of a better term, 'too intentional'.

Then, as most baseball teams do, the Sox 'got him back' a game or so later, but unfortunately Barnes was an idiot and, instead of throwing at Machado's legs, he threw at his head, so he gets a suspension he definitely deserves.


Yeah, I was scrolling through FB, saw MLB Network/Smoltz coverage of it, including the incident.. . . The slide, to me, looked wholly incidental. Like, yeah, it was a bit late, but he wasn't going in intentionally spikes high. He was spikes high because it looked more like he slid to keep from tripping/falling over himself.


And, in regard to the video I was watching, Smoltzey is definitely correct: When a manager makes the call to retaliate, the veteran pitcher or whatever that does the retaliation does it the "right way." This, as Pedroia's reaction indicates, was Barnes taking things into his own hands, almost like Farrell (or whoever the Sox manager is these days) talked with Pedroia, saw what happened and determined that things were settled. . . . Apparently someone needs to put it on official Memos for someone like Barnes.


By this point in his career, he REALLY should know that he's got no reason to ever throw at or even near someone's head.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 14:21:12


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 jasper76 wrote:
 Alpharius wrote:
It is always anyways!

And Buck Showalter has to be the douchiest of douchebag managers going right now - even out-Scioscia'ing Mike Scioscia.

Or maybe Mike Scioscia can't Showalter as 'well' as...Showalter?


With all due respect, what on earth are you talking about? Showalter is probably one of the classiest, inherently decent, and well respected managers in the game.




Brah, you're talking about a Red Sox fan


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 14:57:48


Post by: Alpharius


Please!

I'm guessing jasper is an Orioles fan?

Because Showwalter and Scioscia are two of the most obnoxious baseball hardos out there.

Their 'death stares' into the umpires are freakin' hilarious.

And yeah, this was a typically classy statement from him recently:

http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/19144977/orioles-manager-buck-showalter-says-needling-red-sox-flu-scourge



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 15:04:51


Post by: jasper76


 Alpharius wrote:
Please!

I'm guessing jasper is an Orioles fan?

Because Showwalter and Scioscia are two of the most obnoxious baseball hardos out there.

Their 'death stares' into the umpires are freakin' hilarious.

And yeah, this was a typically classy statement from him recently:

http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/19144977/orioles-manager-buck-showalter-says-needling-red-sox-flu-scourge



So? He mentioned that the press is making too big a deal about the Red Sox flu problems. And he said he wasn't trying to tweak the Sox when asked. There's no crying in baseball, so it goes.

And he stares at umps when he disagrees with their calls. What would you rather him do? Run out on the field, kick dirt, and make an ass out of himself on the regular?

P.S. Yes, I'm an Orioles fan.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 17:18:52


Post by: Alpharius


OK, so you're an Orioles fan - I mean, there almost isn't any point in continuing to describe how Showalter isn't really someone that the word "classy" would describe, but...

It isn't too hard to find many examples of him whining on about the Yankees and the Red Sox.

I mean, sure, he's trying to pull a Maddon here and get the O's all fired up ala the Rays when they became...the Rays, with that "We're Not Gonna Take It Attitude" and not be bullied by the AL East's top teams, but... really?

Maybe just shut up, play ball and win?

And - ironically enough, that IS what the O's have done lately - they've won a lot.

Well, in the regular season maybe.

Sure, they haven't won it all since 1983 - but yeah, just shut up and win, and stop all the chirping!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 17:31:25


Post by: jasper76


I'll just add that something you might not be aware of about Showalter (as well as many Os players, especially Adam Jones) is the amount of time, energy, and promotion he does for charity. He really is classy, even if you don't think he's classy with his press statements, he does alot for a community that desperately needs it, and it's impossible for me not to include that stuff when I think about him as a manager...baseballs just a silly game compared to what he does with his prestige off the field.

I'm sure alot of players and managers around the league do the same.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 18:29:03


Post by: Alpharius


You know what?

That is a very good point and I stand corrected there!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 19:26:40


Post by: kronk


 Alpharius wrote:
You know what?

That is a very good point and I stand corrected there!


Damn. An "I was wrong" post in a sports thread!!

Sorry Lorek, Alph just jumped ahead in the leader board for classiest moderator.

Anyway, the worst baseball person ever is still Ty Cobb, the worst living baseball player is still Pete Rose, and the 'Stros are still #1 in the AL West.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/25 19:43:09


Post by: nels1031


 kronk wrote:
Anyway, the worst baseball person ever is still Ty Cobb, .



I used to think the same, but ever since Buck Oneils interview, I started to question the urban myths of Ty Cobb:




A more recent one:




2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/26 14:33:05


Post by: kronk


So Jeter might be part owner of the Marlins? Interesting!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/26 15:39:40


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 kronk wrote:
So Jeter might be part owner of the Marlins? Interesting!


Saw that as well while watching the Nats/Rockies last night.


On the Ty Cobb front I'm with nels. . . Everything that I've read/seen, etc. shows that he played the game hard. Yes, he was a violent tempered guy. Yes, he slid spikes high. Yes, he made some racist remarks. But back then, if you didn't play hard, occasionally slide spikes high or whatever, you were easily gonna get Wally Pipp'd before there even was a Wally Pipp. On the race front, who wasn't a racist to some degree back then? What I did not know, but learned from that Buck O'Neil interview was that Cobb did a bunch of his winter barnstorming (a common occurrence for big leaguers in the day) in Cuba playing on the same field as people of other colors.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/26 19:47:16


Post by: nels1031


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:

On the Ty Cobb front I'm with nels. . . Everything that I've read/seen, etc. shows that he played the game hard. Yes, he was a violent tempered guy. Yes, he slid spikes high. Yes, he made some racist remarks. But back then, if you didn't play hard, occasionally slide spikes high or whatever, you were easily gonna get Wally Pipp'd before there even was a Wally Pipp. On the race front, who wasn't a racist to some degree back then? What I did not know, but learned from that Buck O'Neil interview was that Cobb did a bunch of his winter barnstorming (a common occurrence for big leaguers in the day) in Cuba playing on the same field as people of other colors.


Yeah, its crazy. I grew up with tales of how terrible of a competitor and person he was. He was like the Boogeyman of Baseball when I was the little leaguer. That Buck O'Neil interview was in the early 2000's, so I was well into adulthood thinking he was the Antichrist of America's Pasttime. I felt cheated after seeing how dominant of a player he was/still is. Something about lies and repetition, I guess.

He certainly wasn't Ghandi or Pope Francis, but he sure as gak wasn't the monster he's portrayed as.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/27 05:22:21


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


Watched the Sox-Yanks game tonight and wow, did Severino look fething good.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/27 12:54:27


Post by: Alpharius


Meanwhile, the Sox offense continues to struggle.

They've never really been great in April, but this is getting ridiculous!

I knew we'd miss Papi, just not this much this soon!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/27 13:02:49


Post by: jasper76


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
Watched the Sox-Yanks game tonight and wow, did Severino look fething good.


Gotta say I love it when the Yanks and Sox beat each other up and help the Os standings.

Are any of these Yanks/Sox games going to be broadcast nationally?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/27 13:32:34


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 jasper76 wrote:

Are any of these Yanks/Sox games going to be broadcast nationally?


Of course there will be a bunch throughout the season, it's the Sox and Yanks you're talking about. Two of the biggest fan bases in all of baseball.


Things that will sway more or less games though, as the season goes on, will be how the teams are doing. I mean, if the Yankees end up in first place throughout the season and Boston ends up "earning" the first pick in the draft, would garner less games (maybe). If both teams are fighting for playoff spots and are having awesome years (ie, if the Sox aren't playing like they are now) then they will get more games.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/27 14:29:02


Post by: Alpharius


 jasper76 wrote:
 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
Watched the Sox-Yanks game tonight and wow, did Severino look fething good.


Gotta say I love it when the Yanks and Sox beat each other up and help the Os standings.

Are any of these Yanks/Sox games going to be broadcast nationally?


Last night's game was on ESPN!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/29 02:31:24


Post by: nels1031


This B-more v New York is wackiness!

And the O's take the L. Godspeed Zach Britton, godspeed.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/29 11:29:36


Post by: jasper76


 nels1031 wrote:
This B-more v New York is wackiness!

And the O's take the L. Godspeed Zach Britton, godspeed.


WTF? When I went to bed, the Os had the game in the bag!


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Ugh...Os took another thumping from the Yanks today and lost first place position.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/30 00:01:23


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 nels1031 wrote:
And the O's take the L. Godspeed Zach Britton, godspeed.


From what I'm seeing of the O's pen, Britton is about the only person they got. That is a terrible weakness to have, IMO


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/04/30 12:05:10


Post by: jasper76


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
 nels1031 wrote:
And the O's take the L. Godspeed Zach Britton, godspeed.


From what I'm seeing of the O's pen, Britton is about the only person they got. That is a terrible weakness to have, IMO


The Os pen could use some help and consistency, but it's not the worst in baseball, and it's not just Britton. Brad Brach and Mychal Givens are pretty good. It's not a very deep pen thought, and you're right it's a pretty big chink in the armor. I think the Yankees are just on fire lately more than anything else.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/01 18:49:11


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


And a wild game for the O's and Yanks on Sunday. . . O's avoided the sweep, and a pitcher got to play 1st base


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/01 19:13:34


Post by: kronk


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
And a wild game for the O's and Yanks on Sunday. . . O's avoided the sweep, and a pitcher got to play 1st base


Yeah, that was an odd one!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 04:44:13


Post by: nels1031


Sloppy Boston pretty much handed the series opener to the O's. O's defense was phenomenal. Back in first in AL East!

Manny Machado bringing out all the boo birds roaring in Boston now, after the slide controversy. And he answered by knocking one out of the park.

Still loving Toronto hanging out in the basement, too! Although, they just routed the red hot Yanks, so I'm still wary of them making a run at it.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 11:05:20


Post by: jasper76


Did anyone watch that Nationals Mets game on Sunday?

23 - 5 Nats win, and Rendon went 6 - 6 with 3 HRs, 10 RBIs, and 5 runs. That must have been a sight to see. I'm sure he went home happy. He got more home runs and RBIs in the one game than he had all season coming into the game!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 11:36:02


Post by: kronk


 jasper76 wrote:
Rendon went 6 - 6 with 3 HRs, 10 RBIs, and 5 runs.


I did not watch the game, but that's an amazing day at the plate.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 13:00:20


Post by: nels1031


Come on, Boston. Wtf?

Is it normal in Boston to get so many arrests/stadium ejections? Even if it ends up half that, like the article states, that seems excessive.

I think we'll get a brawl between these two teams at some point this season. Thought we were on the verge of one after Mookie Betts(think it was him) was hit by a pitch.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/orioles-adam-jones-calls-red-sox-fans-cowards-for-racist-taunts/ar-BBADhRL?li=BBnb7Kz

BOSTON -- Baltimore Orioles center fielder Adam Jones kept looking back behind him Monday night, glaring into the Fenway Park stands, seeing if anyone would be bold enough to utter the racial slur to his face.

“Cowards,’’ he said. “It’s pathetic.’’

Jones has played as a visiting player for 12 years at Fenway Park, spanning 77 games, and has been subjected to racial epithets in the past.

Yet, this night, was like few others, calling it one of the worst experiences he’s ever endured. He listened to racial taunts in the outfield while also having a bag of peanuts thrown at him in the dugout.

“I was called the N-word a handful of times tonight,’’ Jones said disgustedly. “It was pretty awesome out there. Thanks. Pretty awesome.

“Just part of the job right?’’

Jones has listened to vulgarities and racial taunts before in Boston, just like he has at several other ballparks in his career, but this night was more painful.

“Tonight was one of the worst,’’ Jones said, slowly exhaling, “it’s different. Very unfortunate. It is what it is, right. I just go out and play baseball.

“But it’s unfortunate that people need to resort to those type of epithets to degrade another human being. I’m out there trying to make a living for myself and for my family.

“The best thing about myself is that I know how to continue to move on, and still play the game hard. Let people be who they are. Let them show their true colors.’’

Jones, one of just 62 African-Americans on opening-day rosters, also had a bag of peanuts thrown at him in the dugout. He immediately informed security, and the person was caught, and ejected from the ballpark, Red Sox officials confirmed.

“I guess that he was a little disappointed he didn’t get a ball,’’ Jones said. “It’s called a coward.’’

Jones was told there were 59 or 60 people arrested or ejected from Fenway Park for various incidents Monday, Red Sox officials believe it was closer to half that total, while awaiting final reports from ballpark security.

“What they need to do is that instead of kicking them out of the stadium,’’ Jones said, “they need to fine them 10 grand, 20 grand, 30 grand. Something that really hurts somebody. Make them pay in full. And if they don’t, take it out of their check.

“That’s how you hurt somebody. You suspend them from the stadium, what does that mean? It’s a slap on the wrist. That guy needs to be confronted, and he needs to pay for what he’s done.

“At the end of the day, when you throw an object onto the field of play, the player has no idea what it is. What if something hit me right in the eye, and I can’t play baseball anymore. Then what? I just wear it? No.

“Things like that need to be handled a little more properly, in my opinion.’’

The verbal assault towards Jones’ certainly wound up overshadowing the Orioles’ 5-2 victory over the Red Sox in their first game against one another since their ugly incident 10 days ago. The last time they played against each other, April 21 in Baltimore, Red Sox reliever Matt Barnes threw a pitch behind the head of Orioles third baseman Manny Machado. Barnes was trying to retaliate for Machado’s hard slide two nights earlier that injured second baseman Dustin Pedroia, igniting a firestorm in each city.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 13:28:17


Post by: Alpharius


"Boston"?

I'm pretty sure you'll find idiots like this all over the place.

In fact, in this very article:

Jones has listened to vulgarities and racial taunts before in Boston, just like he has at several other ballparks in his career, but this night was more painful.


People caught doing this - along with any of the other idiotic behavior - should absolutely be ejected and/or arrested if they committed a crime.

Racism is, sadly, a learned behavior, so hopefully we'll get clear of all this crap someday soon.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 15:11:33


Post by: nels1031


 Alpharius wrote:
"Boston"?

I'm pretty sure you'll find idiots like this all over the place.


Not disputing that, but the primary context of this article is Boston, and how the volume of the slurs in the game last night was particularly ugly. When the mayor of the city and the president of the Boston Red Sox have to apologize, its pretty bad.


And its worth mentioning that its early in the season. If the race stays close at the top in the AL east, I expect the goons(in Bmore, NY, and Boston) to get worse.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 15:29:03


Post by: jasper76


Unacceptable behavior from within the Boston crowd.

I kind of doubt it's gonna come to blows...I hope not. Unless that one knuckleballer they have decides to play headhunter again.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 15:48:53


Post by: Alpharius


 jasper76 wrote:
Unacceptable behavior from within the Boston crowd.

I kind of doubt it's gonna come to blows...I hope not. Unless that one knuckleballer they have decides to play headhunter again.



Generalizations...so bad.

A few people within the crowd, not 'The Boston Crowd'.

We need fewer Hot Takes in here, stat!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 16:06:24


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 jasper76 wrote:

I kind of doubt it's gonna come to blows...I hope not. Unless that one knuckleballer they have decides to play headhunter again.


I dunno man, personally I find a tight race in the AL East incomplete without numerous bench clearing brawls. Like, I've watched a lot of documentary stuff on the 70s AL East and loved how vicious those guys got with each other (and sometimes their own team members. . . Billy Martin and Reggie Jackson )

I mean, as a fan, having series like the 2 versions of the Boston Massacre can get kind of "old" , I'd much rather the guys on the team's have fire and passion and throw down a few times. IMO, I think the MLB has gone a bit far in recent brawl situations by suspending people when there were no real injuries. Like, y'all charge the mound and clear the benches, that's fine. Get it out of your system. But if someone actually gets hurt and has to go on the DL, then maybe we could look at a bit of unpaid time off.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 16:19:01


Post by: jasper76


 Alpharius wrote:
 jasper76 wrote:
Unacceptable behavior from within the Boston crowd.

I kind of doubt it's gonna come to blows...I hope not. Unless that one knuckleballer they have decides to play headhunter again.



Generalizations...so bad.

A few people within the crowd, not 'The Boston Crowd'.

We need fewer Hot Takes in here, stat!


I did say "from within the Boston crowd"...as opposed to "the Boston crowd".


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 17:05:14


Post by: Alpharius


I heard an interview with the President of Red Sox (Sam Kennedy) at lunch.

While in no way diminishing of denying anything, he was pretty pissed off about inaccuracies in that linked report.

There were 34 ejections (not '59 or 60'), and most were for alcohol related shenanigans, there was of course the peanut thrower and I think only one for 'profane language' - with no details yet there.

Clearly society as a whole still has a ways to go, but I'm fairly certain this here is all about the actions of an idiotic few.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 17:09:13


Post by: kronk


Drunk people acting stupid in a stadium?

This is my shocked face!



As for the racists, if they caught them, ban them from the stadium. fethers.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 17:23:40


Post by: Alpharius


Nicely summed up kronk!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 17:34:34


Post by: nels1031


 kronk wrote:
Drunk people acting stupid in a stadium?

This is my shocked face!


I think its indicative of a greater endemic of racist behaviors and beliefs throughout the Boston fanbase, the city of Boston itself, and even the state of Massachusetts and the entire Northeast.**

That there is the hottest of hot takes. Just for you Alph!

I just posted it because it blows my mind that someone, even if their drunk, would yell racial slurs at a pro athlete in a packed stadium. In 2017. If my initial post read as painting the entirety of Boston Redsox fans as responsible for the actions of a few jerks, I apologize. Not intended.

*
Spoiler:
**I don't actually believe that



edit: My bad, btw. Lets get back to Baseball talk!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 17:58:13


Post by: jasper76


Alec Asher gets his 2ND start with the Os tonight. Let's hope he can get his 2ND win, as well. But Chris Sale is coming in for the Sox with a 1.19 ERA over 37 IP so it's gonna be tough.
Then again the Sox have given him just 4 runs in support so far, so...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 18:00:53


Post by: kronk


Mini-bru-haha in the Astros, Rangers game last night. Good guys won!

7 division games this week for the 'Sros.

Altuve!!!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 18:02:47


Post by: jasper76


 kronk wrote:
Mini-bru-haha in the Astros, Rangers game last night. Good guys won!

7 division games this week for the 'Sros.

Altuve!!!


Looks like the Astros have built themselves a nice lead on top of the AL West so far.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/02 23:44:50


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


Holy cow. . . Aaron Judge is one scary hitter.

Watching the game and they were just now talking about the BP session today: he broke a TV in one of the terrace restaurants in Center-Left field.

Better get stock in Samsung (or whatever brand TVs are all over Yankee Stadium), and anyone who produces any kind of stadium light fixture, since he broke some lights at Fenway on a foul ball this last weekend


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/03 02:58:15


Post by: nels1031


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
Holy cow. . . Aaron Judge is one scary hitter.

Watching the game and they were just now talking about the BP session today: he broke a TV in one of the terrace restaurants in Center-Left field.

Better get stock in Samsung (or whatever brand TVs are all over Yankee Stadium), and anyone who produces any kind of stadium light fixture, since he broke some lights at Fenway on a foul ball this last weekend


And the dude is only 25. He's going to tear it up for a long time, if he can stay injury free.

Did anyone see the triple play in Boston?

A muffed catch turns into 3 outs.

Madness:




2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/03 03:59:43


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


Now watching the Dodgers/Giants, and it's rather wild.

Giants up 4-1, then suddenly at the end of 2, the Dodgers are up 6-4. Now the Dodgers are up 10-5 and SF is already in their pen in the 5th.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/03 10:25:13


Post by: jasper76


 Alpharius wrote:
"Boston"?

I'm pretty sure you'll find idiots like this all over the place.

In fact, in this very article:

Jones has listened to vulgarities and racial taunts before in Boston, just like he has at several other ballparks in his career, but this night was more painful.


People caught doing this - along with any of the other idiotic behavior - should absolutely be ejected and/or arrested if they committed a crime.

Racism is, sadly, a learned behavior, so hopefully we'll get clear of all this crap someday soon.


The Boston fans gave Adam Jones a standing ovation at his first at bat last night. Very classy, sincerely.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
 nels1031 wrote:
Did anyone see the triple play in Boston?

A muffed catch turns into 3 outs.

Madness:




Crazy, not sure I've ever seen that!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/03 12:15:50


Post by: Alpharius


I saw it - JBJ should get fined for not running to first!!!

At least the Sox won though - and in the process, scored more runs for Sale in this game then in total for all of his other starts this season!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/04 12:42:48


Post by: kronk


 jasper76 wrote:


The Boston fans gave Adam Jones a standing ovation at his first at bat last night. Very classy, sincerely.


Yep, classy.

But then he got tossed for arguing balls and strikes! Ha!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/04 14:57:12


Post by: jasper76


 kronk wrote:
 jasper76 wrote:


The Boston fans gave Adam Jones a standing ovation at his first at bat last night. Very classy, sincerely.


Yep, classy.

But then he got tossed for arguing balls and strikes! Ha!


I heard that. My workmate told me the umps were instructed by MLB to take zero gak during the game, because things appear to be getting increasingly tense between the two ball clubs.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/04 16:54:04


Post by: kronk


In Jones' defense, it did look like a bad call. They broke into the Yankee's game to show the clip. I think Showalter got run later!

Ha! Go 'Stros!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/04 22:30:00


Post by: jasper76


I'm hoping the Os can spank the Sox tonight and get a draw out of the series. I'm getting a queasy feeling that Baltimore may have peaked early...

I heard a report yesterday or the day before that Chris Tillman was getting roughed up and in AAA ball


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/05 02:30:40


Post by: nels1031


 jasper76 wrote:
I'm hoping the Os can spank the Sox tonight and get a draw out of the series.


Ask and you shall receive.

White Sox tomorrow!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/05 19:37:08


Post by: jasper76


 nels1031 wrote:
 jasper76 wrote:
I'm hoping the Os can spank the Sox tonight and get a draw out of the series.


Ask and you shall receive.

White Sox tomorrow!


I caught the end of that game. Glad to see tensions seem to have eased between the two clubs....for now at least.

On to the Other Sox.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/05 19:51:46


Post by: Alpharius


 jasper76 wrote:
 nels1031 wrote:
 jasper76 wrote:
I'm hoping the Os can spank the Sox tonight and get a draw out of the series.


Ask and you shall receive.

White Sox tomorrow!


I caught the end of that game. Glad to see tensions seem to have eased between the two clubs....for now at least.



...?

Not sure I'd say that, at all!

You see Manny defending the speed of his home run trot?

It is going to be an interesting season when these two teams meet up!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/10 11:42:39


Post by: jasper76


Looks like the Os have bounced back to the top spot in the AL East, and are getting the better of the Nats, which is no small feat, the Nats are the real deal.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/10 13:19:57


Post by: whembly


Huh... the Cardinals are make some noise (as well as the Reds) in the Central.

Didn't see that one coming.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/10 22:22:48


Post by: nels1031


 jasper76 wrote:
Looks like the Os have bounced back to the top spot in the AL East, and are getting the better of the Nats, which is no small feat, the Nats are the real deal.


Ubaldo pitched a great game, but... Buck needs to ask less of him. I get nervous if he pitches more than 5 innings, when the opposing team gets 2-3 looks at him he tends to get lit up. Luckily the Nat's have a Pony League level bullpen and the O's took advantage of it.

Now to do the same in DC!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/10 23:12:05


Post by: jasper76


 nels1031 wrote:
 jasper76 wrote:
Looks like the Os have bounced back to the top spot in the AL East, and are getting the better of the Nats, which is no small feat, the Nats are the real deal.


Ubaldo pitched a great game, but... Buck needs to ask less of him. I get nervous if he pitches more than 5 innings, when the opposing team gets 2-3 looks at him he tends to get lit up. Luckily the Nat's have a Pony League level bullpen and the O's took advantage of it.

Now to do the same in DC!


Strasburgs giving up bases early. Wish I could watch the whole game but I got a meeting tonight.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
It's weird to see Weiters catching in a Nat's uniform.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/10 23:26:52


Post by: Alpharius


O's fans are certainly fired up early this year!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/10 23:46:11


Post by: jasper76


 Alpharius wrote:
O's fans are certainly fired up early this year!


Well, me and Nels at least


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 00:19:00


Post by: Alpharius


Well, to be honest, you're the only O's fans I know!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 11:35:45


Post by: kronk


Astros have a 6 game lead in the West, 8-2 in their last 10. On pace for a 110 win, 52 loss season!

Make it so!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 12:19:27


Post by: Alpharius


Why the hell not?

They're a hard team to not like, so sure, it would be something to see!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 12:21:35


Post by: jasper76


 kronk wrote:
Astros have a 6 game lead in the West, 8-2 in their last 10. On pace for a 110 win, 52 loss season!

Make it so!


Pretty healthy lead! In the AL East, The Os and Yanks keep topping each other for 1St place, while the Red Sox have slipped to 5 games back. I wonder if things will end up leveling out this way. Still alot of season left, but it's looking like the AL Wild Card might come out of the East again this year.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 12:41:56


Post by: Alpharius


I'd say that yes, it will level out this way.

The Red Sox are a bit of a mess right now, which is a shame.

Can't help but feel that Dave Dombrowski as "President/GM/Whatever" was the wrong move, both short and long term.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 13:04:54


Post by: kronk


 Alpharius wrote:
Why the hell not?

They're a hard team to not like, so sure, it would be something to see!


Coming in last place 3 years in a road netted us a lot of high draft picks. Looking at our AAA team and the guys on the current roster, I'd say our new owner did a HELL of a job selecting his scouting team!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 13:16:56


Post by: whembly


 kronk wrote:
 Alpharius wrote:
Why the hell not?

They're a hard team to not like, so sure, it would be something to see!


Coming in last place 3 years in a road netted us a lot of high draft picks. Looking at our AAA team and the guys on the current roster, I'd say our new owner did a HELL of a job selecting his scouting team!

Same dude who's built the current Cardinal's farm system before moving to the 'Stos.

The Cards had a nice 6 game win streak on the road. Weird stat - this was the first time ever for the Cardinals. o.O



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 13:17:57


Post by: Alpharius


I'll say - in fact, it is so good that I hear people are trying to steal their info!!!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 13:21:30


Post by: whembly


 Alpharius wrote:
I'll say - in fact, it is so good that I hear people are trying to steal their info!!!

...oooo... I walked right into that one!

kronk... lets have the Cards and Astros settle this on the field!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 13:24:53


Post by: kronk


 Alpharius wrote:
I'll say - in fact, it is so good that I hear people are trying to steal their info!!!


Hehe. fething Cards!

It's over with. The 'Stros got some picks and some $$ and the hacker went to prison for nearly 4 years. I'll take it.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
 whembly wrote:


kronk... lets have the Cards and Astros settle this on the field!


I do miss being in the National league. The Card and Cubs were always exciting series.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/11 13:27:32


Post by: Alpharius


I couldn't resist - sorry!

Also, yeah, 4 year jail sentence - youch!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/14 21:26:56


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


Judge had another beautiful, majestic homer in the first game of the double-header. . . A soaring beauty that hit the padding ABOVE the restaurant in centerfield, and bounced basically straight back into the outfield. I'm just amazed at this guy's power


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/15 11:58:01


Post by: jasper76


Speaking of sluggers, it looks like the Nats have locked up Bryce Harper for another year for the lowly sum of $21.65 million.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/15 13:14:50


Post by: kronk


Watched the Derek Jeter tribute and number retire last night. Yankees vs Astros. Then watched my astros hang 8 on them in the first 2 innings!

Good thing, too. The Yankees scored 7.

Happy Derek Jeter day!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/15 20:17:35


Post by: whembly


So... Alph... who you got these next two games?

Sawks or Cards?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/16 02:44:43


Post by: Alpharius


Heart says SOX, brain says...Cards?

Seriously though, the Sox are scuffling.

I don't think a visit to a National League park is what they need right now!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/16 05:19:36


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 Alpharius wrote:
Heart says SOX, brain says...Cards?

Seriously though, the Sox are scuffling.

I don't think a visit to a National League park is what they need right now!


Lol, who knows, you may end up finding a new DH for the team? Maybe drop a guy from the rotation or the 'pen if he looks hitterish enough


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/16 12:07:40


Post by: Alpharius


With Hanley reverting to full on Hanley mode...maybe!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/16 16:39:11


Post by: whembly


 Alpharius wrote:
Heart says SOX, brain says...Cards?

Seriously though, the Sox are scuffling.

I don't think a visit to a National League park is what they need right now!

Cards are smoking hot now.... but, they can be flummoxed by pitchers they haven't seen.

Keep your eyes on Magnerius Seirra... dude is freakishly FAST!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/25 04:00:38


Post by: jasper76


Any Pirates fans here? I'm an Os fan, as any decent person would be, but as far as NL ball goes, I'm watching the Buccos. They got a nice win in extra innings against the Braves tonight.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/25 12:08:32


Post by: Xenomancers


Hate to say it but the Yanks are going to be bringing home the crown this year. They lead the most talented division in baseball and they have all the right tools.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/25 14:20:23


Post by: jasper76


 Xenomancers wrote:
Hate to say it but the Yanks are going to be bringing home the crown this year. They lead the most talented division in baseball and they have all the right tools.


I'm inclined to agree that they look like they're going to win their pennant race, but there's alot of season left and anything can happen, especially in the AL East which as you say is probably the most talented division in MLB.

October is a whole different thing. I doubt they win in the playoffs, that's a tall order. But I wouldn't put it past them to make some money moves for some playoff vets as the season progresses.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/25 14:47:47


Post by: Xenomancers


 jasper76 wrote:
 Xenomancers wrote:
Hate to say it but the Yanks are going to be bringing home the crown this year. They lead the most talented division in baseball and they have all the right tools.


I'm inclined to agree that they look like they're going to win their pennant race, but there's alot of season left and anything can happen, especially in the AL East which as you say is probably the most talented division in MLB.

October is a whole different thing. I doubt they win in the playoffs, that's a tall order. But I wouldn't put it past them to make some money moves for some playoff vets as the season progresses.

Ofc you are right. Long way to go. If I was a betting man though. Yanks have been in the shadow for too long for a team with that history - I think they are about to spend some big bucks.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
 jasper76 wrote:
Any Pirates fans here? I'm an Os fan, as any decent person would be, but as far as NL ball goes, I'm watching the Buccos. They got a nice win in extra innings against the Braves tonight.

With Mccutchen struggling I don't see them making it very far. Cole looks fantastic though - Braves just beat him up but he has been really consistently great all year.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/25 15:45:33


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


I'm a Yanks fan, and I agree with the first part of what jasper said. . . right now the team is playing very well, and so far the injury bug has been manageable.


However, I see them having success in October because they do have veteran presence like Headley and Holliday. The key in October will be whether the young guys change their approach because of the month or not. IF they don't change, then I think they'll be good to go.

While I agree that the team may be spenders near the deadline, I think if they do much of anything, it'll be pitching, and maybe rotation help at that. The position players are, so far playing very well, and there are some young guys still in the minors who can/will be called up at some point to help out.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/25 16:01:50


Post by: Alpharius


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
I'm a Yanks fan, and I agree with the first part of what jasper said. . . right now the team is playing very well, and so far the injury bug has been manageable.


Jacoby is probably out the rest of the year now, given how he likes to rehab and return from injuries!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/25 17:12:24


Post by: Xenomancers


 Alpharius wrote:
 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
I'm a Yanks fan, and I agree with the first part of what jasper said. . . right now the team is playing very well, and so far the injury bug has been manageable.


Jacoby is probably out the rest of the year now, given how he likes to rehab and return from injuries!

I thought he just had a concussion.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/25 17:20:49


Post by: Alpharius


Yes, he does.

He also doesn't return real quick from stuff like that.

Though to be fair, he also had some issues with the Sox medical staff, and possibly front office staff too, last time I was paying attention to him.

No idea if he gets along better with the Yanks - but maybe he does, seeing as they gave him a ton of money?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/28 13:50:07


Post by: jasper76


Ugh...the Orioles have now slipped to third place.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/28 15:20:13


Post by: Alpharius


Yes, I noticed!

Still, long way to go though!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/29 01:39:52


Post by: kronk


 jasper76 wrote:
Ugh...the Orioles have now slipped to third place.


Sweep! 32 hits in 3 games.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/29 03:51:22


Post by: nels1031


 jasper76 wrote:
Ugh...the Orioles have now slipped to third place.


Time to trade Manny for a solid pitcher or two. Pretty much everyone know he's going to get a huge contract offer that the O's can't match, so sell him now while we still have time to salvage the season. Just tear the band aid off and let him get paid.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/05/29 21:29:27


Post by: kronk


fething Astros!. Down 7-2 into the 8th... scores 11 runs in 8th. Love this team!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/01 03:09:49


Post by: jasper76


Still true that the Os own the Yanks at Camden Yards. On to the Sox...




2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/01 15:59:34


Post by: Spacemanvic


 jasper76 wrote:
Any Pirates fans here? I'm an Os fan, as any decent person would be, but as far as NL ball goes, I'm watching the Buccos. They got a nice win in extra innings against the Braves tonight.


The Pirates are currently in 5th place, but the season is still young. They'll have found new and inventive ways to lose (live SE of Pitt, so Buccos fan by default - Jankees fan by inclination).


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/05 01:41:48


Post by: NenkotaMoon


Wishing for the Nats to get the NL East Lockdowned and beat their post season rut. They do the first fine, Hell the whole NL, but can't seem to ever get through win a World Series. It is odd.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/06 02:00:58


Post by: NenkotaMoon


Marlin's hosted the lowest attended game a few days ago.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/11 20:56:30


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


Because it has to be seen to be believed:




This guy is just fun to watch.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/12 16:44:49


Post by: nels1031


Yeah, that was an absolute bomb. Impressive, but hard to watch because it was against my O's.

The whole series was hard to watch, for that matter. Outscored 38-8 and swept like the O's were playing in the wrong league or something.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/12 17:45:59


Post by: Alpharius


The 'experts' keep telling me the Yankees won't be able to sustain this and that their lack of pitching will cause them to fall back down to earth.

Mid June and it hasn't happened yet, and these things have a way of creating - and sustaining - their own momentum too!

Dammit!!!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/14 23:24:05


Post by: Alpharius


Despite the appearance of an actual shark, this wasn’t a “Jaws” situation. Leopard sharks are harmless to humans and are common in the San Francisco Bay. In fact, one of the caretakers at the National Aquarium says the leopard shark is a “great species to care for,” as well as docile and beautiful.


Just like the Giants are harmless to their opponents this year!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/14 23:28:06


Post by: whembly


The Cardinals is going to sign this kid just out of high school:


My lawd!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/17 00:23:14


Post by: whembly


Orioles fans...

What do you think of our pitcher tonight? Carlos Martinez... that dude throw filth.

Also, I forgot how much of a bandbox Camden Yard is... geez... the ball carries there.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/17 04:49:32


Post by: nels1031


 whembly wrote:
Orioles fans...

What do you think of our pitcher tonight? Carlos Martinez... that dude throw filth.

Also, I forgot how much of a bandbox Camden Yard is... geez... the ball carries there.


Was like 10-1 when I turned it off..

Regarding your pitcher: You're lucky to have him! The O's announcers were talking about how he was originaly contracted to Boston, but some sort of irregularity in his personal info made the contract void and Boston backed off, turned out it was a clerical error and not malfeacance. STL swooped in and gave him a legit million dollar contract, whereas the previous Boston contract was like $140K.

Imagine if Boston got him instead! Dude is a legit force for any bullpen.

And yeah, Camden is a hitters park. Makes for better baseball, imo.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/21 15:25:30


Post by: Alpharius


What the heck is going on with the Yankees?!?

They're in the midst of a 7 game losing streak - and I'm not complaining, of course, because now the Red Sox are in first place!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/21 15:32:08


Post by: nels1031


 Alpharius wrote:
What the heck is going on with the Yankees?!?

They're in the midst of a 7 game losing streak - and I'm not complaining, of course, because now the Red Sox are in first place!


Yeah, its been a welcome gift, as it coincided with an extended slump by the O's. Its keeping things interesting in the AL East, as the prize is still within reasonable reach of any party.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/21 15:42:31


Post by: Alpharius


I know, right?

Even the Rays have managed to keep hope alive!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/21 16:15:00


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 Alpharius wrote:
What the heck is going on with the Yankees?!?

They're in the midst of a 7 game losing streak - and I'm not complaining, of course, because now the Red Sox are in first place!


They were talking during the other night's game that this season, the Yanks haven't done so well against the AL West. And we're in the midst of a long string of games against AL West. I don't know if it's the pitching, the time zones, the parks out west throwing off the groove or what, but it is kinda tough to watch at times.

There also the fact that with Chapman out, there's been one fewer guys in the bullpen, and so those who are left have been getting more and more work. To this point, Tyler Clippard, while certainly not the best BP guy, has been struggling something ugly. Last night's game is a prime example, he walked in to a 1 or 2 run game, and when he left it was 7-3 or 8-3. Just ugly. I don't know if Clippard has something mechanical, or headspace, but I think maybe a week in AAA might help.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/23 01:29:27


Post by: BigWaaagh


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
 Alpharius wrote:
What the heck is going on with the Yankees?!?

They're in the midst of a 7 game losing streak - and I'm not complaining, of course, because now the Red Sox are in first place!


They were talking during the other night's game that this season, the Yanks haven't done so well against the AL West. And we're in the midst of a long string of games against AL West. I don't know if it's the pitching, the time zones, the parks out west throwing off the groove or what, but it is kinda tough to watch at times.

There also the fact that with Chapman out, there's been one fewer guys in the bullpen, and so those who are left have been getting more and more work. To this point, Tyler Clippard, while certainly not the best BP guy, has been struggling something ugly. Last night's game is a prime example, he walked in to a 1 or 2 run game, and when he left it was 7-3 or 8-3. Just ugly. I don't know if Clippard has something mechanical, or headspace, but I think maybe a week in AAA might help.



Looks like some time in AAA is just what the doctor is prescribing for Kyle Schwarber right now as well.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/23 01:49:29


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 BigWaaagh wrote:

Looks like some time in AAA is just what the doctor is prescribing for Kyle Schwarber right now as well.



Yeah, the commentary on Schwarber is a bit different that I'm seeing. With Clippard, he's a career 3 ERA pitcher with several years in the bigs. He knows how to pitch.

Much of the commentary on Schwarber is that he's being exposed as a guy who may not actually be able to hit as well as thought, or that the run he had in October was something of a fluke (or at the least, a hot streak)


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/06/24 03:44:01


Post by: nels1031


Orioles have made the history books for tying the 1924 Phillies for allowing 5 or more runs through 20 consecutive games.

History baby!

Spoiler:
Yeah, thats not a good record to hold. But still historic! Whats your team done to make the history books?




2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/07/11 03:41:22


Post by: nels1031


Aaron Judge 513 footer in the Home Run Derby...

Going into the Allstar break, I'm optimistic that the O's can right their ship and get back into serious contention. Hopefully they pick up a pitcher or two when Toronto goes into sell mode!

But I doubt it, as other teams have bigger, deeper pockets, and have front offices that seem to be more aggressive.

How is everyone elses teams doing, going into the break?




2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/07/11 03:48:29


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 nels1031 wrote:
Aaron Judge 513 footer in the Home Run Derby...

Going into the Allstar break, I'm optimistic that the O's can right their ship and get back into serious contention. Hopefully they pick up a pitcher or two when Toronto goes into sell mode!

But I doubt it, as other teams have bigger, deeper pockets, and have front offices that seem to be more aggressive.




I'm feeling the same about the Yanks, June was pretty bad, but you can pretty clearly see where things were going wrong, and I can only hope that they right the ship.

I do think you're right about deadline moves. While I am usually skeptical of in-division moves, I think sometimes $ talks. Either way, I think we'll be in for a wild and crazy deadline.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/07/12 18:56:27


Post by: Lord of Deeds


 nels1031 wrote:
Aaron Judge 513 footer in the Home Run Derby...

Going into the Allstar break, I'm optimistic that the O's can right their ship and get back into serious contention. Hopefully they pick up a pitcher or two when Toronto goes into sell mode!

But I doubt it, as other teams have bigger, deeper pockets, and have front offices that seem to be more aggressive.

How is everyone elses teams doing, going into the break?




Needless to say have really enjoyed my hometown Astros this year. Coming out of the break, it really seems World Series or bust as Astros are trending toward franchise records for home runs, runs scored, and wins. I seem to recall reading something that even if the Astros played .500 ball the rest of the season (far below their current winning percentage), It would take the other teams in the West wining 70% of their remaining games to overtake the Astros and that if the Astros play .550 (again far their current winning percentage) that even the Red Sox who have the second best record in the AL would not overtake them if they continue to win at their current rate.

However, with Dallas Keuchal seemingly staying on the DL for the foreseeable future and McCullars looking like there maybe something still going on, we may actually need another starter for the playoffs as we know how good pitching can shutdown good hitting and the Astros have been pretty mediocre against left handed pitching.

It also seems incredible that for as magical a season the Astros seem to be having so far......the Dodgers seem to be having an even better one, though hard to see them sustaining the pace they have had over the last 30 games.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/07/12 19:18:45


Post by: Alpharius


Well...remember the 2001 Seattle Mariners?



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/07/12 21:13:00


Post by: nels1031


 Alpharius wrote:
Well...remember the 2001 Seattle Mariners?


I member!

Baseball related side note: Oriole Park at Camden Yards is a top ten finalist in Readers Digest "Nicest places in America". Only stadium from any sport to make it. Suck it, other sport venues!

Kind of funny that's it in the list, in that riots shut it down during the Freddie Gray debacle a year ago and its in one of the more violent cities (per capita) in America. Its an oasis of sporty friendliness! Most definitely one of the prettier parks out there.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/07/12 22:50:04


Post by: Alpharius


It is awesome, but IIRC, you really don't want to wander more than a few blocks away from it...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/07/17 05:04:04


Post by: nels1031


Well, my optimism that I posted about last week? Dead and gone.

We'll be joining Toronto by going into sell mode shortly and fighting them to stay out of the the bottom spot in the AL East. My hope now is just for the O's to play the spoiler for some unfortunate team and knock them out of the wild card race towards the end. Because I'm spiteful.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/07/17 05:05:33


Post by: teknoskan


I wish I could go back in time and put my money on the Cubbies.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/01 23:10:17


Post by: NenkotaMoon


One day my Nats will go further than the prelims of the World Series, one day.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/01 23:14:25


Post by: whembly


 NenkotaMoon wrote:
One day my Nats will go further than the prelims of the World Series, one day.

Just watch out for that 'infield fly rule'...

<--- StL Cards fan


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/10 16:38:20


Post by: complex57


Look out everyone, the animal kingdom is coming to the aid of the Cardinals again this year.

2011- Rally Squirrel = won World Series
2017 - Rally Kitten = ?

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/cardinal-beat/watch-the-rally-cat-and-yadi-s-grand-slam/html_3e1a3ba9-f8e0-5430-b152-d424af5906c6.html


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/10 17:57:27


Post by: whembly


I saw that happen!

In any event... if by some miracle the Cards win the division, I don't see them winning "one" game against the Dodgers.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/21 23:55:05


Post by: nels1031


Aaron Judge with a historic 37 game streak with at least one strike out per game. Batting .162 since the Allstar Break... Safe to say the league has adjusted to the young juggernaut.

The second AL Wild card race remains outrageous. Orioles, despite their best efforts to the contrary, remain relevant in that mix.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/22 20:54:12


Post by: Xenomancers


 nels1031 wrote:
Aaron Judge with a historic 37 game streak with at least one strike out per game. Batting .162 since the Allstar Break... Safe to say the league has adjusted to the young juggernaut.

The second AL Wild card race remains outrageous. Orioles, despite their best efforts to the contrary, remain relevant in that mix.

Hes off the juice that's all it is.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/22 21:38:11


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 Xenomancers wrote:

Hes off the juice that's all it is.




Yeah, no.

If you actually watch the games, there's a chicken-egg thing going on. . . he hasn't been seeing the ball as well, which could be a mental thing, and has developed a mechanical issue in his swing. The commentators use the chicken/egg analogy because it's almost impossible to know whether this started mental and moved physical, or vice versa.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/23 00:19:07


Post by: nels1031


Yeah, I wouldn't go with the 'juice' excuse myself. I think pitchers got enough looks at him to able to adjust to his swing, his posture, etc.

Or its a mechanical thing, like Ensis says. He could be playing hurt, too. Maybe a combo of all three.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/23 02:02:29


Post by: Alpharius


Agreed!

I mean, I hate the Yankees, certainly, but going to the 'juice excuse' seems...NQR.

Because it isn't!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/23 06:59:12


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 Alpharius wrote:
Agreed!

I mean, I hate the Yankees, certainly, but going to the 'juice excuse' seems...NQR.

Because it isn't!


Lol, I mean, it's not like we're talking about Manny Ramirez afterall

We;re talking about a guy who is build more like an NFL tight end than a baseball player, he's got some serious pop.

Also. . .Watched the Gary Sanchez bomb that was 2 feet short of Judge's longest on the year, holy cow that was an amazing shot, and it was clear the commentary crew were impressed as well.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/23 12:18:17


Post by: Xenomancers


Juice or not - he went from best to worst hitter in the MLB at the split. Gosh I miss Manny.

Anyways. AL Wildcard is a really tight race.

Yankees (67-57)
Twins (65-60)
Angels (65-61)
Royals (63-61)
Mariners (64-63)

Pretty close behind them so this list might even change.

Predictions people - who you got? I'm going to go with Angels and Yankees.





2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/23 12:35:55


Post by: Alpharius


I don't see the Yankees falling out of the playoffs - they just bash the ball too well for that. Might run into problems pitching-wise in the playoffs, but maybe not.

As for the other AL wildcard...I'm going to go with KC.

NL wildcards?

I think it will as is - Diamondbacks and Rockies!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/23 15:52:30


Post by: Xenomancers


That is what it looks like for sure. I'd like to see the Diamondbacks go far.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/23 18:54:45


Post by: whembly


 nels1031 wrote:
Yeah, I wouldn't go with the 'juice' excuse myself. I think pitchers got enough looks at him to able to adjust to his swing, his posture, etc.

Or its a mechanical thing, like Ensis says. He could be playing hurt, too. Maybe a combo of all three.

I think it's simply he's tired. He's a rookie who hasn't experienced the full season grind yet.

He also went "all out" during the HR derby during the All Stars break and probably janked his technique. If nothing else, a good off-season will bring his mash'n success back next year for sure.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
 Xenomancers wrote:
Juice or not - he went from best to worst hitter in the MLB at the split. Gosh I miss Manny.

Anyways. AL Wildcard is a really tight race.

Yankees (67-57)
Twins (65-60)
Angels (65-61)
Royals (63-61)
Mariners (64-63)

Pretty close behind them so this list might even change.

Predictions people - who you got? I'm going to go with Angels and Yankees.




Angels. I've still got a soft spot for Albert Pujols and I really REALLY want to see Mike Trout in the post season.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/24 21:32:31


Post by: nels1031


Forget Mayweather v Mcgregor!*

3 Rounds of "Combat" in Detroit v. New York Yankees.

DETROIT -- A back-and-forth of inside pitches between the Yankees and Tigers turned into a benches-clearing confrontation Thursday afternoon at Comerica Park after Miguel Cabrera and Austin Romine threw punches at each other in the sixth inning.

Thursday's tensions began with Gary Sanchez, who hit his fourth home run of the three-game series in the fourth inning. Tigers starter Michael Fulmer hit Sanchez an inning later with a 96-mph fastball. Sanchez looked none too pleased as he slowly made his way to first base, while Tigers head athletic trainer Kevin Rand and manager Brad Ausmus made their way to the mound to check on Fulmer, who returned from the disabled list last week following a bout of ulnar neuritis that left him struggling to get feeling on his pitches.

An inning and a half later, Cabrera stepped to the plate against Yankees reliever Tommy Kahnle, who struck out the first two batters of the sixth inning. Kahnle's first pitch to Cabrera went behind his back, prompting plate umpire Carlos Torres to eject him without a warning. Yankees manager Joe Girardi was furious as he charged out to argue with Torres, leading to his ejection.
Once the ejections seemingly settled, Aroldis Chapman entered to face Cabrera, who began jawing with Yankees catcher Austin Romine. Cabrera shoved Romine, they traded punches and benches cleared. While several players -- including Romine's brother, Tigers utility player Andrew Romine -- tried to separate the two, several side incidents broke out.
Cabrera and Romine were ejected. Dixon Machado finished the at-bat, while Sanchez moved from DH to catcher.
The back-and-forth of hit-by-pitches between the two teams -- the same two pitchers, in fact -- began July 31 at Yankee Stadium. Mikie Mahtook was hit by a Kahnle fastball off his helmet, but Kahnle made it clear later in the inning that the pitch wasn't intentional. The next inning, Fulmer hit Jacoby Ellsbury, prompting warnings to both benches. No further incidents happened the remainder of that series.
Players came onto the field again in the seventh inning when Yankees reliever Dellin Betances hit James McCann in the helmet, at that point in a 6-6 game. McCann was OK but furious, while Tigers manager Brad Ausmus argued with Torres. After umpires conferred, Betances was ejected, as well as Yankees bench coach Rob Thomson.
The benches cleared once more in the top of the eighth inning after Alex Wilson, who finished the seventh inning, hit Todd Frazier in the left thigh with one out. Wilson was ejected, as was Tigers manager Brad Ausmus. Shane Greene, who ran in from the bullpen, went back there to warm up for a five-out save opportunity.


*Not really, I'm seriously considering pulling the trigger on the PPV. The hype monkey bit me and I'm pretty pumped.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/26 04:45:14


Post by: nels1031


Player's Weekend is pretty cool.

Though I suspect that the Boston Red Sox players, if they are superstitious, and they are because they are baseball players, will burn them after their 5 errors committed, 17-3 ass whooping they got from the O's friday night. Don't worry Boston, the O's always blow their load on the first game of a series and tend to not score much for the remainder.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/maurybrown/2017/08/25/the-complete-list-of-every-mlb-players-weekend-jersey-nicknames/#5db6047a1db7


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/28 18:51:48


Post by: Xenomancers


Redsox have lost 4 in a row and look like a like they are bleeding to death. Watching Sundays game. 1-11 with runners in scoring position. 2 flyouts with bases loaded and 2 outs...I'm just not seeing very good hitting from this crew - they make a lot of fundamental mistakes hitting that make scoring runs difficult. Not a single hitter with over 19 HR's. I just don't see how this team will win more than they lose in the post season - esp since sale can't pitch every game.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/28 19:00:18


Post by: Alpharius


Wha...?!?

That's one hell of a Hot Take right there!

What were your thoughts about the previous 21 games where they went 17-4?

Ebbs and flows of the season, right there!

The Red Sox are a good team - now, can they choke it all away?

Sure - they certainly did in 2011 (?) - to an epic degree.

But its a little too early to push that particular panic button.





2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/28 19:10:57


Post by: nels1031


They were uncharacteristically sloppy on defense over the weekend as well. They looked deflated/dejected the entire series against the O's.

Props to the Boston fans though, they all looked to be sellout crowds and were into it for every inning of every game, including the ass whooping they received in the first game. The crowd was going wild when Moreland(their first basemen) struck out a batter when the bullpen was tapped out. Granted it was a weekend series, but definitely a solid fan base.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/28 19:12:41


Post by: Alpharius


Yeah, that was one of the only 'highlights' of the weekend series here, for sure!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/28 19:33:13


Post by: whembly


So... who's going to win the Stanton sweepstakes?

He has already cleared waivers, so the Marlins have until Thursday to trade him during the season.

Not sure, if they can survive the PR hit if Stanton breaks the HR record (or nearly) and then traded in offseason.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/28 22:42:48


Post by: nels1031


Is there any contender that needs the long ball?

Most teams are prepared to sacrifice their firstborn for just one solid starting pitcher, power hitters, not so much.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/08/28 23:03:41


Post by: whembly


 nels1031 wrote:
Is there any contender that needs the long ball?

Most teams are prepared to sacrifice their firstborn for just one solid starting pitcher, power hitters, not so much.


Cardinals during the season (till Thursday).

Maybe the Giants.

I think they'd be smart to auction him off in the off season. Depends on what the new owners are looking for...

If it's a purely salary dump? They may do it before Friday. If they want good assets in return, definitely wait till offseason.


















2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/05 21:18:02


Post by: nels1031


Tomfoolery out of Boston!

Where were Brady/Belichik while this happened? Easily 4 game suspension for them. I am aware its a different sport but he's involved somehow. I know it.

http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/boston-red-sox-used-electronic-devices-to-steal-signs-against-yankees/ar-AArlXtT?li=BBnbfcL


WASHINGTON — For decades, spying on another team has been as much a part of the gamesmanship of baseball as brushback pitches and hard slides. The Red Sox have apparently added a modern — and illicit — twist: They used an Apple Watch to gain an advantage against the Yankees and other teams.

Investigators for Major League Baseball have determined that the Boston Red Sox, who are in first place in the American League East and likely headed to the playoffs, executed a scheme to illicitly steal hand signals from opponents’ catchers in games against the second-place Yankees and other teams, according to several people briefed on the matter.

The baseball inquiry began about two weeks ago, after the Yankees’ general manager, Brian Cashman, filed a detailed complaint with the commissioner’s office that included video the Yankees shot of the Red Sox dugout during a three-game series in Boston last month.

The Yankees, who had long been suspicious of the Red Sox stealing catchers’ signs in Fenway Park, contended the video showed a member of the Red Sox training staff looking at his Apple Watch in the dugout and then relaying a message to players, who may have then been able to use the information to know the type of pitch that was going to be thrown when they were hitting, according to the people familiar with the case.

Baseball investigators corroborated the Yankees’ claims based on video the commissioner’s office uses for instant replay and broadcasts, the people said. The commissioner’s office then confronted the Red Sox, who admitted that their trainers had received signals from video replay personnel and then relayed that information to some players — an operation that had been in place for at least several weeks.

The Red Sox responded in kind on Tuesday, filing a complaint against the Yankees, claiming that the team uses a camera from its television network, YES, exclusively to steal signs during games.

It is unclear what penalties, if any, Commissioner Rob Manfred will issue against the Red Sox and whether he will order a more expansive investigation to determine the extent of the Red Sox’ sign-stealing system. It is also unclear how he will proceed with the countercomplaint.

Pat Courtney, a spokesman for Major League Baseball, declined to comment on the case. Attempts to reach the Red Sox were not successful. A Yankees official declined to comment on the Red Sox’ claim regarding the YES camera.

Stealing signs is believed to be most effective when there is a runner on second base who can watch what hand signals the catcher is using to communicate with the pitcher and then relay to the batter any clues about what type of pitch may be coming. Such tactics are allowed as long as long as teams do not use any methods beyond their eyes. Binoculars and electronic devices are prohibited to communicate about signs.

In recent years, as cameras have proliferated in major-league ballparks, teams have begun using the abundance of video to help them discern opponents’ signs. Some clubs have had clubhouse attendants quickly relay information to the dugout from personnel monitoring video.

With that approach, the information has to be rushed to the dugout on foot so it can be passed to the runner on second base. The Red Sox seemed to shorten the communication chain — and more quickly get the information to their batters — by sending information electronically to people in the dugout.

The Red Sox told league investigators said that team personnel scanning instant- replay video were electronically sending the pitch signs to the trainers, who were then passing the information to the players.

As part of the inquiry, baseball investigators have interviewed the Red Sox team trainers and outfielder Chris Young, a former Yankees player. The Red Sox told league investigators that the team’s manager, John Farrell, general manager, Dave Dombrowski, and other front-office officials were not aware of the sign-stealing operation, the people said.

In the first game of the series in question, the first time the Red Sox got a runner on second was Xander Bogaerts, in the second inning. Rafael Devers promptly hit a home run, giving the Red Sox a 2-0 lead. The Red Sox went 5 for 8 in the first game when they had a man on second.

Their success when they had a runner on second in the other two games was mixed: 1 for 6 in the second game; and 3 for 10 in the third game.

The video provided to the commissioner’s office by the Yankees was captured during the first two games of the series and included at least three clips. In the clips, the team’s assistant athletic trainer, Jon Jochim, is seen looking at his Apple Watch and then passing information to outfielder Brock Holt and second baseman Dustin Pedroia, who was injured at the time but in uniform. In one instance, Pedroia is then seen passing the information to Young.

The Red Sox’ tactics will add to their intense rivalry with the Yankees, who closely trail them in the standings. Outside of New England, the case will be reminiscent of the Spygate controversy that erupted a decade ago when the world-beating Patriots were found to have violated N.F.L. rules by spying on opponents to gain an edge.

Mr. Manfred is in a difficult position as he decides how to discipline the team and whether to continue investigating to try to determine if the Red Sox violated rules in other games this season and whether Farrell and other team personnel knew about the scheme.

A decade ago, the N.F.L. commissioner, Roger Goodell, hastily took away a first-round draft pick and fined the Patriots and their coach, Bill Belichick, before conducting a thorough investigation. When more evidence of cheating later emerged, Goodell was accused of trying to minimize the damage and protect one of the sport’s premiere franchises. Congress eventually got involved.

In baseball, the most infamous incident involving sign stealing played out in 1951, when the New York Giants overcame a 13 and one- half game deficit in the standings over the final two months of the season to catch the Brooklyn Dodgers. The Giants went on to beat the Dodgers in a playoff for the pennant when Bobby Thomson hit a home run remembered as the “ Shot Heard Round the World.” Fifty years later, The Wall Street Journal revealed that the Giants had spies in the center-field clubhouse at the Polo Grounds who used a telescope to steal signs from the opposing catcher, which were then relayed to Giants’ players from a backup player in the bullpen.

In 1997, teams accused the Mets of planting small cameras near home plate in Shea Stadium to spy on catchers. The Mets denied that they had used the cameras to try to steal signs, and the league did not take any action.

More recently, the Philadelphia Phillies faced sign-stealing accusations in 2011, when they were one of the best teams in baseball. Several teams logged complaints with the commissioner’s office that the team used binoculars and other unauthorized methods to steal signs. The Phillies were never sanctioned by Major League Baseball.

Some in baseball would like for Mr. Manfred to take away some of Boston’s victories, a move that would be highly unusual. Others believe that a significant fine and the docking of draft picks would be sufficient.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/06 02:16:18


Post by: Alpharius


Yawn.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/06 02:30:32


Post by: whembly



Seriously?

At least you're an honest homer...

Don't be mad, I love you Alph!!!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/06 02:39:12


Post by: Alpharius


Did you read that whole article?

Crap goes on like this all the time?

And what does it really gain you?

Nothing!

Yet teams still try, and will continue to try.

In the end, it amounts to nothing, gains them nothing, and means nothing.

So yeah, yawn.

I mean, it isn't like they were hacking into another team's computer systems and stealing proprietary info or anything like that.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/06 20:35:38


Post by: whembly


 Alpharius wrote:
Did you read that whole article?

Crap goes on like this all the time?

And what does it really gain you?

Nothing!

Yet teams still try, and will continue to try.

In the end, it amounts to nothing, gains them nothing, and means nothing.

So yeah, yawn.

I mean, it isn't like they were hacking into another team's computer systems and stealing proprietary info or anything like that.

I soooooo walked into that one!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/06 20:47:06


Post by: Alpharius


It was too easy!

All kidding aside, the Red Sox players were STUPID to do this, and were very brazen about how they were doing it too - so they'll deserve anything that happens.

Yes, we know everyone is doing this, but come on, at least deploy a little more subtlety here!

From Yahoo!'s Jeff Passan:

Boston’s greatest crime was the obviousness with which it employed the scheme. Generally speaking, according to sources, if someone on a team’s video staff cracks an opponent’s signals, they are run from the video room to an intermediary in the dugout and forwarded to players on the field. The Red Sox’s crime, according to sources, was sending the decoded material via Wi-Fi rather than vocal cords.

This was particularly stupid because while no rule outlaws sign stealing, the no-technology-in-the-dugout statute is well-known. Nonetheless, sources familiar with the investigation do not expect the penalties on the Red Sox to be harsh. The suggestion they will vacate victories against the Yankees is nonsensical, and the likelihood MLB will dock them draft picks is minimal. The most likely upshot is a fine for the organization, with possible suspensions for those involved in the actual scheme, according to sources.


All data seems to indicate that it wasn't really helping them anyway - and I'm not sure that a system like some think was in place could actually work and/or be effective.

Having said that, I wish the Sox had been stealing signs last night - I went to bed after the 11th - and while the Sox won, it wasn't until the 19th!!!

And thankfully the O's came back against the Yanks in the bottom of the 9th with 2 out - so that helped too!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/07 02:15:31


Post by: whembly


 Alpharius wrote:
It was too easy!

All kidding aside, the Red Sox players were STUPID to do this, and were very brazen about how they were doing it too - so they'll deserve anything that happens.

Yes, we know everyone is doing this, but come on, at least deploy a little more subtlety here!

From Yahoo!'s Jeff Passan:

Boston’s greatest crime was the obviousness with which it employed the scheme. Generally speaking, according to sources, if someone on a team’s video staff cracks an opponent’s signals, they are run from the video room to an intermediary in the dugout and forwarded to players on the field. The Red Sox’s crime, according to sources, was sending the decoded material via Wi-Fi rather than vocal cords.

This was particularly stupid because while no rule outlaws sign stealing, the no-technology-in-the-dugout statute is well-known. Nonetheless, sources familiar with the investigation do not expect the penalties on the Red Sox to be harsh. The suggestion they will vacate victories against the Yankees is nonsensical, and the likelihood MLB will dock them draft picks is minimal. The most likely upshot is a fine for the organization, with possible suspensions for those involved in the actual scheme, according to sources.


All data seems to indicate that it wasn't really helping them anyway - and I'm not sure that a system like some think was in place could actually work and/or be effective.

Having said that, I wish the Sox had been stealing signs last night - I went to bed after the 11th - and while the Sox won, it wasn't until the 19th!!!

And thankfully the O's came back against the Yanks in the bottom of the 9th with 2 out - so that helped too!


The memes gang has been having fun with this...

this is what happened when the Red Sox stopped using their Apple Watches pic.twitter.com/bm6h7NoGv6

— Kenny Ducey (@KennyDucey) September 5, 2017




Cardinals are making a pennant race here... only 4 games back from Cubbies.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/07 08:29:20


Post by: nels1031


 Alpharius wrote:
And thankfully the O's came back against the Yanks in the bottom of the 9th with 2 out - so that helped too!


It was amazing. Manny Machado is on fire!

'Future Yankee' chants when he was up to bat throughout the game... less amazing. It was both disconcerting and had a whiff of prophecy to them. No way the O's drop crazy money on him, sadly.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
The shroud of the dark side has fallen. Begun, The Sign War has.
-Captain Yoda, Star Trek V The Undiscovered Country
The off-field battle between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees continued Thursday with a report the Red Sox provided Major League Baseball with video evidence showing the Yankees used a television camera to steal signs during a game.

Per ESPN's Buster Olney, the Red Sox "presented to the commissioner's office what they say is video evidence of the YES Network maintaining a fixed camera on bench coach Gary DiSarcina during a recent game at Yankee Stadium."

According to Olney, the Red Sox "were so concerned" about one particular camera shot seen in their video room "they had their bench coach alter his position in the dugout" as the game was going on.


On Tuesday, Michael S. Schmidt of the New York Times reported MLB investigators determined the Red Sox used an Apple Watch to steal signs from the Yankees during a series the two teams played at Fenway Park in August.

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has yet to announce a punishment for the Red Sox, but Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe reported the team should only expect "a slap on the wrist."

Manfred and MLB investigators continue to look into the Red Sox's claims against the Yankees regarding the camera shot, according to Olney.


We can all agree that the Yankees and Red Sox must forfeit enough games to place the Orioles in first place by a solid margin. Its the only way justice can come from this. Right?


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2731969-red-sox-reportedly-provided-video-evidence-yankees-used-tv-camera-to-steal-signs?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=programming-national


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/25 15:44:39


Post by: Alpharius


The O's performance recently though...yuck.

I mean, after they laid down for the Yanks I was a bit concerned - not Integrity of The Game Concerned though - as Showalter LOVES to beat the REd Sox!

Good thing they proceeded to lay down for the Sox too.

The Sox have been on a ridiculous streak in September - catching fire at the right time.

Still lots of questions regarding the playoff rotation - as in, who the hell is going to be the #3 or #4 starter!

Still, good to see them in a position to win the AL East again.

And if it ends up were it looks like it will end up, the Sox play the Astros the last 4 games of the season in Boston - and then play a 5 game series against the Astros in the opening round of the playoffs!

And good to see the Yanks and Sox back in the playoffs at the same time again!



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/09/29 20:19:59


Post by: whembly


Well... the cardinals were eliminated last night from the playoffs... so, it's offseason mode.

For any baseball purist... please read this:
https://www.theplayerstribune.com/rick-ankiel-letter-to-my-younger-self-cardinals/

I saw this happen in real time, and Ankiel is such a good dude.

Also, his outfield "assists" were ridiculous:



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/04 23:00:55


Post by: nels1031


Well, postseason time!

Sticking with rooting for AL East until/if they are eliminated. Yankee's looked pretty impressive last night, but I can't root for them. They're the Yankees.

Boston it is! And then I'll root for them until they win it all or are eliminated.

Pretty disappointing Orioles season. Not an epic collapse, but definitely started off strong and faded into the basement towards the end. Couldn't even put together a run at spoiling another teams chances!

Probably have seen the last of quite a few prominent starters on the O's roster. I think Adam Jones, Jonathan Schoop and most definitely Manny Machado will go somewhere else that can pay them what they are worth. And the players we acquired for the season like Wellington "Beef" Castillo and Tim Beckham will probably shop elsewhere.

After a few years of legit contendership in the AL East, they'll be back to consistent mediocrity. At least Austin Hayes and Chance Cisco looked like solid MLBers during their showcase during the last few series. And Trey Mancini would be in talks about RotY if not for Aaron Judge.

Offseason will be interesting!






2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/05 12:26:35


Post by: Alpharius


Woo hoo!

Welcome aboard - even if only temporarily!

It might be very temporary indeed - though I'm *hopeful* that the Sox can go all the way, a lot of things will need to fall their way for that to happen!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/05 12:28:47


Post by: Xenomancers


 Alpharius wrote:
Woo hoo!

Welcome aboard - even if only temporarily!

It might be very temporary indeed - though I'm *hopeful* that the Sox can go all the way, a lot of things will need to fall their way for that to happen!

Man I really hope Sale throws a Gem tonight. We probably have the worst offense in the playoffs but maybe the best pitching.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/05 12:38:08


Post by: Alpharius


*Maybe* the best pitching *WHEN* they decide to pitch well.

The last two weeks of the season was the very definition of inconsistency.

So it depends on which version of Sale/Pomerantz/Fister/Porcello/Rodriquez/etc. decide to show up!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/05 13:05:07


Post by: Xenomancers


 Alpharius wrote:
*Maybe* the best pitching *WHEN* they decide to pitch well.

The last two weeks of the season was the very definition of inconsistency.

So it depends on which version of Sale/Pomerantz/Fister/Porcello/Rodriquez/etc. decide to show up!
Totally agree. Consistency is an issue here. My biggest concern is offense though - in order to make it deep into this we really need someone to step up and hit the bloody ball.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/05 14:10:57


Post by: Alpharius


Hopefully that's Mookie and maybe Hanley can wake up from his almost year long slumber.

Moreland could get hot again, though he's so streaky.

They're not *bad* offensively, but we're definitely missing that Big Bat (aka Papi!)...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/05 15:11:55


Post by: NenkotaMoon


https://www.bizjournals.com/washington/news/2017/10/02/heres-where-the-washington-nationals-ranked-in-mlb.html

More Nationals focus interesting statistics for other teams as well.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/06 02:36:01


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


Watching the Yankees game, and this umpire crew definitely seems.. .. rough on the Yankees. number of pitches in the zone on pitch tracker being called balls, and "check swings" being granted when clearly swings.


Take that back. . . this crew is just straight up inconsistent. They've suddenly, and inexplicably started giving the Yankee hitters the corners again. Some of the calls given to Gardner and Headley in the 8th, weren't given to the guys in the 6th and 7th.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/06 14:57:00


Post by: Alpharius


Same thing in the Sox/Astros game - but it didn't make much difference in the end.

I'm sure it was the same thing there too.

Overall, from what I've seen so far, the Umps have been inconsistent and unimpressive - which is really unacceptable at this point when we're in the playoffs now.

Get your best out there!

There's no doubt that Umps are rated, reviewed and ranked, but I think they still go by 'seniority' and 'politics' in terms of who gets to ump the playoffs.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/06 15:11:47


Post by: Xenomancers


 Alpharius wrote:
Same thing in the Sox/Astros game - but it didn't make much difference in the end.

I'm sure it was the same thing there too.

Overall, from what I've seen so far, the Umps have been inconsistent and unimpressive - which is really unacceptable at this point when we're in the playoffs now.

Get your best out there!

There's no doubt that Umps are rated, reviewed and ranked, but I think they still go by 'seniority' and 'politics' in terms of who gets to ump the playoffs.

Altuve destroyed us man. In 1 at bat he beats the entire sox offense.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/06 15:47:28


Post by: Alpharius


Technically it took him 3 ABs to do that, but yes.

The rather punchless Sox offensive doesn't look to be able to get the job down this postseason...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/06 17:07:02


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 Alpharius wrote:
Same thing in the Sox/Astros game - but it didn't make much difference in the end.

I'm sure it was the same thing there too.

Overall, from what I've seen so far, the Umps have been inconsistent and unimpressive - which is really unacceptable at this point when we're in the playoffs now.

Get your best out there!

There's no doubt that Umps are rated, reviewed and ranked, but I think they still go by 'seniority' and 'politics' in terms of who gets to ump the playoffs.



Ohh yeah. . . don't get me wrong, as much as I'm a Yankees fan. . . they weren't helping themselves. Judge couldn't lay off the curve, Sanchez swung through some bad ones as well. . . the 2 ABs in the 8th from Headley and Gardner, making Andrew Miller throw 16 or 17 pitches between the 2 of them were probably the best ABs of the whole night.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/07 00:13:53


Post by: nels1031


If Cleveland pulls ahead, the call to not review that “hit by pitch” will haunt Gerardi for a long time if the Yanks don’t win the series.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/07 01:33:45


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 nels1031 wrote:
If Cleveland pulls ahead, the call to not review that “hit by pitch” will haunt Gerardi for a long time if the Yanks don’t win the series.



Indeed, especially as we're in the 11th, which means any "pulling ahead" for Cleveland means a 2-0 series lead.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/07 02:21:34


Post by: nels1031


Cleveland in 3.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/07 14:58:32


Post by: Alpharius


I'm still going with Cleveland, but in 4 or 5.

No way the Yankees get swept, right?

(Unlike the Red Sox, who are almost certainly about to get swept! )


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/07 14:59:28


Post by: NenkotaMoon


Damnit Nats.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/08 16:44:25


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 Alpharius wrote:
I'm still going with Cleveland, but in 4 or 5.

No way the Yankees get swept, right?

(Unlike the Red Sox, who are almost certainly about to get swept! )


Feth, I can hope the yanks can make it interesting and win at home today. . . but those bats need to wake up big time. A new umpire crew wouldn't go amiss either, but that's a different bag of worms.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/09 02:59:45


Post by: nels1031


Yankees AND Boston keeping it alive! I think they are both just ‘stay of executions’, but who knows?

Both Astros and Indians bats could’t put anything together. More baseball!



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/09 03:39:04


Post by: Alpharius


Remember when the Sox were down 0-3 to the Yankees in the ALCS?

I do!

Still, yeah, it will probably be Houston vs. Cleveland.

The Sox starting pitching is the very definition of inconsistent and ineffective...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/09 04:06:22


Post by: techsoldaten


 Alpharius wrote:
Remember when the Sox were down 0-3 to the Yankees in the ALCS?

I do!

Still, yeah, it will probably be Houston vs. Cleveland.

The Sox starting pitching is the very definition of inconsistent and ineffective...


I don't know what's wrong with Sale, but this isn't the first time I heard about him having trouble starting in September. Hopefully he can turn it around.

I didn't see what happened with Fister today. Did they just have his number, or was he breaking down?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/10 01:33:47


Post by: nels1031


Later, Boston! You had a good run.

Yankees still battling Cleveland. Will probably push it to game 5 if they stay ahead.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/10 02:01:14


Post by: Alpharius


 nels1031 wrote:

Yankees still battling Cleveland. Will probably push it to game 5 if they stay ahead.


You think?

The Yanks pushing this to game 5 will make for an exciting finale...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/12 03:50:18


Post by: nels1031


 nels1031 wrote:
Cleveland in 3.


With the benefit of hindsight, its safe to say that perhaps my prophetic vision was flawed.

With that said, Astros take ALCS. >.>


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/12 06:40:46


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


I think the ALCS will come down to how the lineups deal with starting pitchers. . . . and how the pitching performs.

At the conclusion of game 5 tonight, they showed the ERAs and BAs of the 2 CS clubs. .. . Yanks starters don't have a good ERA, but their bullpen is quite good. Whereas the 'Stros starters are pretty good, but their pen is even worse than Yankees starters, numbers-wise.

All that said. . . if somehow, the Yankees can string together a bunch of at bats like they did in game 5, where they make whichever pitcher it is throw 10+ pitches to a single dude, I think that favors the yankees lineup.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/12 12:43:44


Post by: Alpharius


Gotta give the Yankees credit (argh!), I didn't think they could beat the Indians!

Saw that Judge now holds the postseason record for strikeouts in a series.

Now the problem for the Yankees is that the Astros can just straight mash the ball, just about 1 through 9.

They are relentless...

Have to go Astros here!

Go 'stros!

(Where the hell is Kronk?!?)



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/12 12:57:18


Post by: nels1031


 Alpharius wrote:


(Where the hell is Kronk?!?)



Kronk on another subforum:

Going to take a break from dakka. Even posters I have a lot of respect for are becoming d-bags over this 8th edition switch.

Catch ya'll in a while.


:(


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/13 04:50:53


Post by: BigWaaagh


Cubbies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That was a lot more drama than I needed, but BOOYAH!!!!!

GO CUBS!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/13 04:56:49


Post by: nels1031


 BigWaaagh wrote:
Cubbies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That was a lot more drama than I needed, but BOOYAH!!!!!

GO CUBS!


Seriously dude.

Was probably the most intense game of the postseason.

I had no dog in the fight as I’m all about the American League Life, I just wanted to see good baseball.

Delivered. All 4 hours, 37 minutes of it.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/13 13:16:05


Post by: BigWaaagh


 nels1031 wrote:
 BigWaaagh wrote:
Cubbies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That was a lot more drama than I needed, but BOOYAH!!!!!

GO CUBS!


Seriously dude.

Was probably the most intense game of the postseason.

I had no dog in the fight as I’m all about the American League Life, I just wanted to see good baseball.

Delivered. All 4 hours, 37 minutes of it.


You got that right! That was a long-ass game that had no dull moments. How weird was it? "Cubs video coordinator Nate Halm played as large a role as anyone when he noticed Nationals baserunner Jose Lobaton's foot come off first base on a pickoff attempt in the eighth inning, just as the Cubs were about give the lead back to Washington. Halm was being doused with champagne during the Cubs' celebration as if he had hit a home run, because the ensuing video challenge ended that Nationals threat." -ESPN Then there's Wade-fething-Davis baby! Just a game for the ages.

GO CUBS!!!!!!!








2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/13 15:50:16


Post by: whembly


<--- Cards fan here...

I tip my hat to the cubbies... and man, that was an awesome game!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/13 16:12:09


Post by: NenkotaMoon


feth the Cubs


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/13 16:26:12


Post by: whembly


 NenkotaMoon wrote:
feth the Cubs

I'm rooting for Dodgers v. 'Stros WS.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/13 18:06:53


Post by: Alpharius


Astros all the way now!

IN ALTUVE KRONK WE TRUST!!!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/15 01:15:06


Post by: nels1031


Seemed like Aaron Judge didn’t know what was at stake, as his non chalant lob to second base after fielding Correas hit gave Altuve enough time to run home and score. Didi Grigorious’s throw to the plate didn’t help either, but if Judge put a little ass into the throw back to the infield it would’ve given Didi a much better chance to get a solid throw to Sanchez and tag Altuve at the plate. It wouldn’t have even been close had initial effort been applied.

Instead, the Yankees are down 2 games.

Not that I’m complaining mind you, love seeing the Yanks lose, it was just anti-climactic. Was a great game but when Judge just droopily threw that in, I knew he’d regret it. Altuve is a fast dude.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/15 18:50:55


Post by: Alpharius


Yeah, watching that replay again?

Two good throws nail Altuve at the plate easily.

And even then, Sanchez holds on to that ball and he might have had him anyway...

Way less offense so far in that series than I thought we'd see, but like nels, I'm OK with the result!

Now, I'm sure we'll see a lot more scoring once we're in that joke of a stadium in New York for the next two (hopefully!) or three games though!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/19 15:05:16


Post by: nels1031


My dudes...

New York Yankees are 1 win away from going to the big dance...

I know they are the Yanks and they’ve pretty much always been a powerhouse, but damn, what a turnaround from last season. And even last season was pretty ominous in retrospect. After they went into sell mode and started their “youth movement” their new up and coming talent went on a tear, clawed out of the basement and were legit wild card contenders up until the last month of regular season.

Maybe if I start rooting for them, they’ll start to lose?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/19 15:42:23


Post by: Alpharius


Cashman cleaned up at the Trade Deadline too - kudos to him there for recognizing that 'the future is now' and taking advantage of it!

Now we'll see if the Cubs can successfully channel the spirit of the '04 Red Sox...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/19 16:00:26


Post by: BigWaaagh


One game at a time! GO CUBS!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/19 17:16:55


Post by: Ensis Ferrae


 nels1031 wrote:
My dudes...

New York Yankees are 1 win away from going to the big dance...

I know they are the Yanks and they’ve pretty much always been a powerhouse, but damn, what a turnaround from last season. And even last season was pretty ominous in retrospect. After they went into sell mode and started their “youth movement” their new up and coming talent went on a tear, clawed out of the basement and were legit wild card contenders up until the last month of regular season.

Maybe if I start rooting for them, they’ll start to lose?







EDIT: Was in class last night, so I was unable to see Madden getting tossed. . . for those who did watch the game, was it good (the ejection)?? I kinda feel like the current crop of managers don't really know how to tirade and get ejected very well, so I was maybe hoping.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/20 06:36:45


Post by: BigWaaagh


 Ensis Ferrae wrote:
 nels1031 wrote:
My dudes...

New York Yankees are 1 win away from going to the big dance...

I know they are the Yanks and they’ve pretty much always been a powerhouse, but damn, what a turnaround from last season. And even last season was pretty ominous in retrospect. After they went into sell mode and started their “youth movement” their new up and coming talent went on a tear, clawed out of the basement and were legit wild card contenders up until the last month of regular season.

Maybe if I start rooting for them, they’ll start to lose?







EDIT: Was in class last night, so I was unable to see Madden getting tossed. . . for those who did watch the game, was it good (the ejection)?? I kinda feel like the current crop of managers don't really know how to tirade and get ejected very well, so I was maybe hoping.


It was a very fine ejection over a heinously blown call. Unfortunately after tonight's drubbing, a repeat is now off the table. Hats off to LA, impressive series...absolutely nonexistent bats from the Cubs, notwithstanding.



2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/20 11:49:38


Post by: Alpharius


Houston has to beat the Yankees, because if they don't, I don't think the Dodgers can beat the Yankees in the Series, and that would be an awful thing!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/20 15:39:47


Post by: whembly


 Alpharius wrote:
Houston has to beat the Yankees, because if they don't, I don't think the Dodgers can beat the Yankees in the Series, and that would be an awful thing!

Dodgers are really, REALLY such a good team.

It'd be a coin toss honestly.

I think the Astros would give the Dodgers more problems than the Yanks.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/20 17:47:39


Post by: NenkotaMoon


Dusty Baker is gone.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/20 18:52:48


Post by: Alpharius


Dead or fired?

Or both?

Or quit, I suppose, maybe?

More details man, more details!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/20 19:49:00


Post by: nels1031


Fired, from what I read.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/22 03:23:30


Post by: nels1031


Astros to the World Series!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/22 04:09:10


Post by: whembly


Yeah! Where's kronk???!?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/22 04:19:48


Post by: nels1031


 whembly wrote:
Yeah! Where's kronk???!?



 Alpharius wrote:


(Where the hell is Kronk?!?)



Kronk on another subforum:

Going to take a break from dakka. Even posters I have a lot of respect for are becoming d-bags over this 8th edition switch.

Catch ya'll in a while.


:(


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/22 04:26:46


Post by: whembly


:(

Come back Obi-wan-kronobi!

Who you have in the WS? I think it'll go to game 7.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/22 06:15:25


Post by: nels1031


Going to keep rooting for American League, but I think the Dodgers are too damn hot right now.

Hoping for 7 games regardless.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/23 05:45:35


Post by: BigWaaagh


Wanted a repeat for the Cubs, but the Dodgers...just damn! My fall back were the Yanks, so not so much that anymore. I don't know right now, I think it goes 7 and I think this could potentially be a series for the ages. These teams should match up well, and if I had a gun to my head I'd go Dodgers only because...well, just damn again!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/23 22:15:26


Post by: Alpharius


I've got friends that are big Dodgers fans, but I'd rather have the Astros win.

But I'll be OK with either one!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 00:17:10


Post by: Dreadwinter


The Dodgers knocked out the Cubs, so now they are my mortal enemies until the year is over. Then it reverts back to the St. Louis $%&#birds.

I also hate being on the Astros bandwagon, but ugh, gotta see those Dodgers lose!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 00:38:17


Post by: techsoldaten


Just getting to the point where I can talk about baseball, after the Red Sox were eliminated.

It will be interesting watching the WS this year. Houston is a dynamic young team, they remind me a lot of the 2015 Royals. Good to see the Dodgers back in the show but I still don't know what to think of them.

I don't really have a horse in this game, it's all going to be about appreciating what people do on the field. Thank god it's not the Yankees.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 02:59:27


Post by: Alpharius


 techsoldaten wrote:
Thank god it's not the Yankees.


Amen to that!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 03:25:05


Post by: ZergSmasher


 Dreadwinter wrote:
The Dodgers knocked out the Cubs, so now they are my mortal enemies until the year is over. Then it reverts back to the St. Louis $%&#birds.

Hey now, before you trash the Cardinals, just remember that at their current rate of WS wins it'll take the Cubs 500 years to catch up to the Cards' current number! Although to be fair the Cardinals were kinda garbage this year.

Dodgers vs. Astros, huh? I really don't care who wins actually. Pity I won't be able to see it since my antenna just won't pick up my local Fox station worth a damn.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 04:32:16


Post by: Dreadwinter


 ZergSmasher wrote:
 Dreadwinter wrote:
The Dodgers knocked out the Cubs, so now they are my mortal enemies until the year is over. Then it reverts back to the St. Louis $%&#birds.

Hey now, before you trash the Cardinals, just remember that at their current rate of WS wins it'll take the Cubs 500 years to catch up to the Cards' current number! Although to be fair the Cardinals were kinda garbage this year.

Dodgers vs. Astros, huh? I really don't care who wins actually. Pity I won't be able to see it since my antenna just won't pick up my local Fox station worth a damn.


This year? You mean since they lost La Russa?

I actually don't mind the Cardinals, I just enjoy the banter back and forth. La Russa was one hell of a manager and the Cubs would have been very lucky to have him. However, I live in deeply contested territory. Cubs and Cardinals fans living beside each other like cats and dogs. It is madness. Some fans take it too far though. Mostly the Cardinals fans, St. Louis is absolutely nuts about their sports teams. I have been asked to leave offices just because I was wearing a Cubs shirt. Sometimes as a joke, sometimes very seriously. Jokingly, more often than not, but still.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 14:28:57


Post by: whembly


 Dreadwinter wrote:
 ZergSmasher wrote:
 Dreadwinter wrote:
The Dodgers knocked out the Cubs, so now they are my mortal enemies until the year is over. Then it reverts back to the St. Louis $%&#birds.

Hey now, before you trash the Cardinals, just remember that at their current rate of WS wins it'll take the Cubs 500 years to catch up to the Cards' current number! Although to be fair the Cardinals were kinda garbage this year.

Dodgers vs. Astros, huh? I really don't care who wins actually. Pity I won't be able to see it since my antenna just won't pick up my local Fox station worth a damn.


This year? You mean since they lost La Russa?

I actually don't mind the Cardinals, I just enjoy the banter back and forth. La Russa was one hell of a manager and the Cubs would have been very lucky to have him. However, I live in deeply contested territory. Cubs and Cardinals fans living beside each other like cats and dogs. It is madness. Some fans take it too far though. Mostly the Cardinals fans, St. Louis is absolutely nuts about their sports teams. I have been asked to leave offices just because I was wearing a Cubs shirt. Sometimes as a joke, sometimes very seriously. Jokingly, more often than not, but still.

La Russa to the Cubs? Man... the amount of stroke-inducing drama would be something else.

The Cub's coach in that much trouble??


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 14:35:50


Post by: Alpharius


Unlikely.

Not sure where this is coming from?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 14:49:45


Post by: whembly


 Alpharius wrote:
Unlikely.

Not sure where this is coming from?

Just me listening to sports radio about Maddon may be in the hot seat, which is seriously asinine... and folks in Chicago bringing up LaRussa.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 15:48:03


Post by: Alpharius


He's 100% not in the hot seat!

You need to find a new station to listen to for sports talk!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 15:50:00


Post by: whembly


 Alpharius wrote:
He's 100% not in the hot seat!

You need to find a new station to listen to for sports talk!

ESPN radio....

...and heh.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/24 23:49:25


Post by: Dreadwinter


No no, you misunderstood me or I wasn't clear. I mean we would have been lucky to have him in general. He isn't coming to the Cubs. Sorry for the confusion. Was just trying to say he was a damn good coach.

Edit: Maddon is in the hot seat for letting his pitching coach go so he could get another that is a free agent. I guess they didn't really agree on things that often. At least that is what I was reading a few days ago, could be any number of things now.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/25 04:30:49


Post by: ZergSmasher


 Dreadwinter wrote:
 ZergSmasher wrote:
 Dreadwinter wrote:
The Dodgers knocked out the Cubs, so now they are my mortal enemies until the year is over. Then it reverts back to the St. Louis $%&#birds.

Hey now, before you trash the Cardinals, just remember that at their current rate of WS wins it'll take the Cubs 500 years to catch up to the Cards' current number! Although to be fair the Cardinals were kinda garbage this year.

Dodgers vs. Astros, huh? I really don't care who wins actually. Pity I won't be able to see it since my antenna just won't pick up my local Fox station worth a damn.


This year? You mean since they lost La Russa?

I actually don't mind the Cardinals, I just enjoy the banter back and forth. La Russa was one hell of a manager and the Cubs would have been very lucky to have him. However, I live in deeply contested territory. Cubs and Cardinals fans living beside each other like cats and dogs. It is madness. Some fans take it too far though. Mostly the Cardinals fans, St. Louis is absolutely nuts about their sports teams. I have been asked to leave offices just because I was wearing a Cubs shirt. Sometimes as a joke, sometimes very seriously. Jokingly, more often than not, but still.

Believe me, I was sad to hear STL was losing LaRussa. And you're right, we haven't had much success since then.

I also enjoy all the banter of a good sports rivalry. I'm not like some Cards fans that treat Cubs fans like gak; I just enjoy good ol' fashioned smack talk. I've got some family in Chicago (and yes they are Cubs fans) and it's fun to razz them some when the Cubs are doing worse than the Cards. I was actually happy to see the Cubs win a World Series after so long without one. Too bad it couldn't have been in 2015 so everyone could talk about how the second Back to the Future movie predicted it...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/26 04:46:04


Post by: nels1031


Game 2 was bananas. Questionable bullpen use by the Dodgers, back to back jacks by Altuve and Correa, extra innings, historic combined home run numbers. Crazy that it was 4 hours and some change, was pretty intense throughout and watching it seemed like it was going faster.

Series knotted up 1-1!

I’m favoring the Astros at this point, the Dodgers were scraping the bottom of the bullpen barrel on that game.


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/26 13:34:12


Post by: Alpharius


That was one hell of a game!

If you went to bed early, you missed a lot!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/26 15:51:55


Post by: nels1031


Joe Girardi out as manager of the Yanks?!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/26 15:52:34


Post by: whembly


 nels1031 wrote:
Joe Girardi out as manager of the Yanks?!

wut?*

*La Russa time?


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/26 15:58:33


Post by: Alpharius


WOW!

http://nypost.com/2017/10/26/joe-girardi-wont-manage-yankees-next-season/

“With a heavy heart, I come to you because the Yankees have decided not to bring me back,” Girardi said in a statement released by his agent. “I’d like to thank the Steinbrenner family for believing in me and giving me this wonderful opportunity.”

Girardi’s four-year contract was up after this month, and despite this season’s success, his future was undecided. Yankees GM Brian Cashman’s contract is also expiring, but he is fully expected to return.


Absolutely did not see that happening...


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/26 15:59:59


Post by: nels1031


Article:

“Looking externally”

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2737758-joe-girardi-yankees-reportedly-part-ways-after-10-seasons

Ninja’d by Alpharius!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/28 23:26:56


Post by: Dreadwinter


 whembly wrote:
 nels1031 wrote:
Joe Girardi out as manager of the Yanks?!

wut?*

*La Russa time?


No! Staaaaaahp!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/30 05:46:56


Post by: nels1031


Game 5. 5 hour epic. Wow.

Astro’s lead 3-2! Off to LA for the final 1 or 2 games!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/30 13:34:44


Post by: Alpharius


This one HAS to go 7 - it's been too much fun not to go the full amount of games!!!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/10/30 21:16:18


Post by: whembly


This game is insane!

Only the 2011 WS game 6 was better!


2017 MLB Predictions and News @ 2017/11/01 22:20:48


Post by: nels1031


Well, game 6 was a bit meh. Astro's were locked down.


Onwards to Game 7 where the champ will be crowned! I'm not really rooting for anyone, just want one more good baseball game before offseason.

I think the offseason will have some absolute blockbuster moves/trades though. Quite a few young studs and proven veterans had their contracts expire this year.




Automatically Appended Next Post:
Astros : World Series Champs!

Dodgers had plenty of opportunities to make it interesting or even pull ahead, but they were pretty damn flaccid at the plate. Damn good series, though.