5/13/10 -- Why the Heck do I care any more?

[sweetlew]

I mean really?

I should know better than to cheer for a team coached by Jerry!

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

I mean really?

I should know better than to cheer for a team coached by Jerry!

Not to defend the guy, but giving up 2 dingers to a guy that's never hit one before and 3 RBIs to the opposing pitcher is not Jerry's fault.

[Ed in Westchester]

CINCINNATI - Almost as comforting as the soft sweaters made from alpaca fleece is the affection that the llama-like animals from South America bestow on their owners. Jeff Pergram's alpaca, named Masterpiece, would trail and nuzzle him.

So it was heartbreaking not only to Pergram, but also to owners throughout the state known as "Little Peru" for its thriving alpaca industry, when Masterpiece was stolen, beaten to death with a makeshift club and dumped in a barn.

"I can't imagine anyone looking into the gentle eyes of an alpaca and doing such a thing," said Beth Kressin, an alpaca owner in Medina, in northeast Ohio.



BMBB is gonna be pissed

[Ed in Westchester]

LT on the other hand, is gonna be happy


A friend of the underage runaway who accused Giants' legend Lawrence Taylor of rape allegedly told investigators the teen victim bragged about making money without actually having sex, according to published reports.

The shocking revelation, if true, could help Taylor fight statutory rape charges against him and support the argument his lawyer has made since Taylor's arrest in Rockland County: Nothing illicit happened.

The 16-year-old runaway allegedly made the statement when she returned to a car waiting for her outside the Holiday Inn where she accused Taylor of attacking her.

The friend, who traveled with the teenager to meet Taylor that evening, said that the prostitute immediately said upon her return that the football great paid her $300 for sex, which was strange, because they didn't have any – oral or otherwise. He just touched himself.

"When she got back in the car, she wasn't mad or anything like that," the friend told investigators, according to the Daily News. "She was like, 'Wow' – she got paid $300 and didn't have to have sex with him."

Taylor's lawyer, Arthur Aidala, didn't immediately respond to requests for comment, but the friend's alleged claim could damage the prosecution's case and, potentially, knock down the third-degree rape charge against Taylor that carries up to four years in jail.

The friend stepped forward to exonerate Taylor because of "three things: they didn't have sex, she's lying, and he's innocent," a source that revealed the latest developments in the investigation told The New York Post.

Previously, the alleged victim insisted she and Taylor had had sex and said that anything to the contrary from Taylor's camp was a lie. The troubled ex-linebacker also copped to paying a prostitute for sex, according to a criminal complaint.

Taylor was charged last week with third-degree rape and patronizing a prostitute. His lawyer has repeatedly maintained his client's innocence, but added this week that there had been no sex at all.

Meanwhile, the weight-loss company NutriSystem Inc. says it has dropped LT as a spokesman because of the charges.

Company spokeswoman Susan McGowan said Friday that the company was shocked at the allegation that Taylor had sex with a 16-year-old runaway and decided to sever the relationship.

McGowan, speaking from company headquarters in Horsham, Pa., said Taylor had been a spokesman for NutriSystem advertising and public relations since April 2009 and had lost 35 pounds to 250. She said he had been used heavily on national TV.



I mean, he's still fucked up, but not as bad as we thought.

[sweetlew]

BMBB is gonna be pissed

Who can hurt and animal like that?

I mean, I would have no problem beating and torturing a human to death under the right circumstances, but I could never do that to an animal

[sheadenizen]

Fave story of the day....
Charlie Manuel is so much smarter than Jerry. He knows damn well he's lying, but he does it to rally his troops and divert attention.
Jerry could have rallied his troops as well but chose to laugh it off. Too bad. I would have liked a little bad blood. LOL!

According to multiple reports, the Rockies accused the Phillies of using binoculars to steal signs from the bullpen on Monday.

The MLB Commisioner’s Office told the Phillies on Tuesday they could no longer use binoculars during games, however they also said tapes revealed nothing was revealed to suggest the team has been cheating.

Phillies assistant GM Scott Proefrock told MLB.com the situation has been addressed and it won’t happen again.

…from what i can gather, this isn’t about the Phillies getting the catcher’s sign and relaying it to the hitter… it’s about picking up the signal ad sequence so they an identify future pitches… but, i have to think, teams will start changing their sequence every inning…

Nevertheless, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel denied the accusations, then told CSN Philly:

“Somebody maybe ought to check the Mets if they did that. Their [bleeping] home record is out of this world and they’re losing on the road. Sometimes that’s a good indicator of getting signs and [crap]. I see somebody setting there at 17-2 at home and 4-12 on the road, I’d get concerned about that. That kind of crosses my mind… I’m not accusing them, but you look at that and – damn. We’re about the same home and road. I’m just saying their record is much better at home and they hit better… (The Rockies complained) Because we beat them… Keep crying. I’m sure if they can steal signs, they’ll steal them. And believe we will, too, if we can get them. Yeah, we will. Legally. If you’re dumb enough to let us get them, then that’s your fault. That’s been in the game for a long time.”

…first off all, i wish the Mets were 21–14… sadly, they’re not…

“Tell Charlie our bullpen is a little far and we have a few other things going on,’ Jerry Manuel said to reporters yesterday, when asked about the ‘suggestion.’

In the New York Times, Michael S. Schmidt wrote:

“According to the people, who were directly involved in discussing the issue, the Los Angeles Dodgers told baseball officials during the National League Championship Series that they were concerned the Phillies were using video cameras to steal signs. The Yankees, whom the Phillies faced in the World Series, expressed similar concerns, as did the Mets in 2007.”

Schmidt says Mike Pelfrey acknowledged the Phillies have a reputation around baseball for stealing signs, which he has also heard from players who once played for the Phillies.

Last week, the Phillies scored 10 runs against Johan Santana on May 2.

“Some people were talking, amongst us, the bullpen coach would come out and hang over the fence when they were hitting,” Rod Barajas said yesterday, according to The Associated Press, regarding Santana’s start. “And then when we were hitting they were sitting back.”

…i don’t want to get all high and mighty about this, because who knows who is ever cheating, that’s the point of it… i am sure i have rooted for teams in sports who cheated some how and i never knew about it… that said, guys, binoculars, really… we have all this technology in the world and you’re using binoculars… jeez… they should first be fined for cheating, then fined again for being sloppy… between this and the constant crowding of the plate, their aggressive play and, you know, the winning, i really, really wish someone from some pitching staff – particularly the Mets – would knock these guys down a peg…

[sweetlew]

Not to defend the guy, but giving up 2 dingers to a guy that's never hit one before and 3 RBIs to the opposing pitcher is not Jerry's fault.

His shitty managing always puts us in a position to lose.

Jose needs to be moved back to the lead-off spot ASAP --- if he is such a good #3 hitter - he should never be asked to bunt.

He bungled the bullpen management

And he doesn't sit Frenchy who now has a .318 OPS so far for May (yes I know he was robbed in 1 AB yesterday)

[sweetlew]

Fave story of the day....
Charlie Manuel is so much smarter than Jerry. He knows damn well he's lying, but he does it to rally his troops and divert attention.
Jerry could have rallied his troops as well but chose to laugh it off. Too bad. I would have liked a little bad blood. LOL!

Jerry is a fucktard

[sweetlew]

Jason Pridie with a game winning base hit in the 8th last night.

Jesus Feliciano with 3 more hits to raise his OPS to .860.

Yet, GMJ still takes up space on the roster and is given key pinch hit appearances

[sweetlew]

Also on the good news front -- Tejada is hitting .400 in his last 10 games (with a Castilloesque one XBH during that stretch!)

Not bad for a 20 year old in AAA

[sweetlew]

And from the "I told you so files" regarding Dillon Gee, after starting the season with 13 straight scoreless innings,

He has give up 20 runs in his last 28 IP on the back of 36 hits and 11 walks.

Cross him off the fall back option list

[sweetlew]

Six

[sweetlew]

Seven?

[sheadenizen]

And from the "I told you so files" regarding Dillon Gee, after starting the season with 13 straight scoreless innings,

He has give up 20 runs in his last 28 IP on the back of 36 hits and 11 walks.

Cross him off the fall back option list

I said this 2 weeks ago and got killed for it. LOL!

[sweetlew]

Wow -- I guess yesterday's abomination has taken the wind out of everyone's sails!

[sweetlew]

I said this 2 weeks ago and got killed for it. LOL!

I remember -- I agreed with you --- his stuff is way too fringy to succeed as anything more than a back of the bullpen guy.

Which sucks, but it is reality

[sheadenizen]

BTW, I hate Frankie. Didn't want him. Don't like him.

[sheadenizen]

Wow -- I guess yesterday's abomination has taken the wind out of everyone's sails!

I think we all feel agree with you, lew....why do we care so much? We're always disappointed.

[sweetlew]

Other good news is Carson put together his second straight decent start -- in his last two starts: 11.1 IP, 11 hits, 2 BB, and 3 runs.

His strike outs have dropped, but he isn't walking the world any longer.

[sweetlew]

BTW, I hate Frankie. Didn't want him. Don't like him.

A closer in a non-save situation.....go figure.

Again, Jerry should have double switched when he brought Nieve in -- put Nieve in the #2 spot and Castillo in the 9 spot.

This way Nieve could have come out to pitch the 9th and Frankie would be saved for the save situation if it arose.

And, if they got to the #2 spot in 8th inning, they likely would have scored to take the lead - so you don't mind using the pinch hitter there.

Jerry just can't see more than one step ahead.

I would love to play chess against him for money

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

His shitty managing always puts us in a position to lose.

Jose needs to be moved back to the lead-off spot ASAP --- if he is such a good #3 hitter - he should never be asked to bunt.

He bungled the bullpen management

And he doesn't sit Frenchy who now has a .318 OPS so far for May (yes I know he was robbed in 1 AB yesterday)

I'll put some of the blame, ok a lot of the blame on HoJo for the guys looking so clueless at the plate. Getting rich scoring opportunities with RISP and less than 2 outs and not doing anything with them is not due to poor managing. Burning the pen and trotting out useless players is one thing, but when the big bats are silent that's something else.

[sheadenizen]

ding, ding, ding. You're both right. Bad manager. Bad hitting/ hitting coach. Bad bench!
Jerry. HoJo. Omar.
How lucky for us there's enough blame to go around!

[sweetlew]

Speaking of St Lucie......they have some bats that are starting to be intriguing:

Campbell - 3 more hits, including his 4th HR to raise his OPS to .952, he has a 1:1 BB:K ratio in the FSL and is in the top 3 in the league in OPS

Welch had three more hits, including a double to raise his OPS to around .862

And Satin continues his ridiculous hot streak -- he is hitting .417 with a 1.206 OPS in his last 10 games. He is 25 in the FSL, so we need to temper our enthusiasm

Havens had a hit and a walk to raise his OPS to .865 --- he is at 57 PA's, so he will likely be getting promoted to AA next week (they wanted him to have 75 in the FSL first, right?)

[sweetlew]

I'll put some of the blame, ok a lot of the blame on HoJo for the guys looking so clueless at the plate. Getting rich scoring opportunities with RISP and less than 2 outs and not doing anything with them is not due to poor managing. Burning the pen and trotting out useless players is one thing, but when the big bats are silent that's something else.

Pagan's AB with the bases loaded and one out was the worst yesterday. Yes he had a SF to score a run.

But he had a 3-1 count and he swung at a ball on the outside corner that was likely ball four --- even if it is a called strike, that is not the ball you hack at in that count.

It seems that the hitters do not know how to work counts and look for balls in their sweet spot when they are ahead in the count.

I loved HoJo as a player, in my top 3 all time favorite Mets, but he has been a disaster as a hitting coach.

[sweetlew]

This will make Dep happy --- Capt Kirk -- 3 for 5 yesterday and NO STRIKE OUTS!

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

Pagan's AB with the bases loaded and one out was the worst yesterday. Yes he had a SF to score a run.

But he had a 3-1 count and he swung at a ball on the outside corner that was likely ball four --- even if it is a called strike, that is not the ball you hack at in that count.

It seems that the hitters do not know how to work counts and look for balls in their sweet spot when they are ahead in the count.

I loved HoJo as a player, in my top 3 all time favorite Mets, but he has been a disaster as a hitting coach.

It's like they do the polar opposite of what needs to be done in situations. Swing at ball four and look at strike 3.

[sweetlew]

Another great start by Cohoon in Savannah --- the college arms we have down there are owning that league.

He now has 40K's to 10 BB's in 46 IPs

[sweetlew]

Of course, this is great news, but just setting us up for the ultimate let-down:


David Lennon traveled to Port St. Lucie for Newsday and says, “Carlos Beltran is running again, and with the strides he made Wednesday – both literally and figuratively – the All-Star centerfielder is hopeful that he can avoid microfracture surgery and rejoin the Mets before too long.”

Beltran told Lennon he experienced no pain, he’s tired of Port St. Lucie, he’s in the greatest shape of his life and he believes he can help the Mets.

[sheadenizen]

Another great start by Cohoon in Savannah --- the college arms we have down there are owning that league.

He now has 40K's to 10 BB's in 46 IPs

never even heard his name. thanks for all the info.

[sheadenizen]

Of course, this is great news, but just setting us up for the ultimate let-down:

I saw that Lennon news, lew, but chose to ignore it. Until I see Beltran in Citi in CF...I'm not listening.
::stcks fingers in ears....lalalalala...I can't hear you::

[sweetlew]

never even heard his name. thanks for all the info.

Cohoon and Fuller are two college arms at Savanah.

They are on the border line of being old for the league (22)

But they each came from small colleges and were late draft picks. They both pitched really well in Brooklyn and so far have been flat out dominating the Sally.

Fuller -- being a tall lanky lefty -- might have a better chance to develop into something, but right now they are both worth watching.

They should be promoted to St Lucie by mid-season

[Athena]

Beltran told Lennon he experienced no pain, he’s tired of Port St. Lucie, he’s in the greatest shape of his life and he believes he can help the Mets.

That's an amusing quote! Hope he gets back this season. I miss him.

[sweetlew]

I saw that Lennon news, lew, but chose to ignore it. Until I see Beltran in Citi in CF...I'm not listening.
::stcks fingers in ears....lalalalala...I can't hear you::

I would actually prefer Carlos in RF and Pagan in CF --- save some stress on Beltran's knees.

I love Frenchy and all, but this would be our best team

[four3two1]

this whole Phillies shit gets me so heated. i keep thinking i'll care less the next day, and then i hear more about it and i'm just as mad. i want to hit someone. preferably a phillies fag.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

That's an amusing quote! Hope he gets back this season. I miss him.

I have to believe some part of Moises Alou is still down there rehabbing. Maybe El Duque as well.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

I would actually prefer Carlos in RF and Pagan in CF --- save some stress on Beltran's knees.

I love Frenchy and all, but this would be our best team

Can Pagan play 2B? That would be nice.

[sheadenizen]

I would actually prefer Carlos in RF and Pagan in CF --- save some stress on Beltran's knees.

I love Frenchy and all, but this would be our best team

whatever....you get the point. :)

[sweetlew]

That's an amusing quote! Hope he gets back this season. I miss him.

I bet he is freaking jacked.

Not being able to run, I bet he has been hitting the weights something fierce --- hopefully it doesn't screw him up too much

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

I bet he is freaking jacked.

Not being able to run, I bet he has been hitting the weights something fierce --- hopefully it doesn't screw him up too much

You mean like a certain 3B?

[sheadenizen]

Can Pagan play 2B? That would be nice.

now there's an interesting thought. I like it. Probably not, but worth asking the question.

[sheadenizen]

I have to believe some part of Moises Alou is still down there rehabbing. Maybe El Duque as well.

The ghosts of disasters past!

[Athena]

I have to believe some part of Moises Alou is still down there rehabbing. Maybe El Duque as well.

heh! Yup! The Bermuda Triangle. That's why "I'm tired of Port St. Lucie" made me smile for some reason.

And if I can be permitted a tiny bit of optimism, he is usually very measured in his quotes about his health. He might actually be feeling pretty well, if he would say that. Of course we won't have any guarantees. We won't know if he can play an entire season unless or until he actually does it.

[sheadenizen]

this whole Phillies shit gets me so heated. i keep thinking i'll care less the next day, and then i hear more about it and i'm just as mad. i want to hit someone. preferably a phillies fag.

I'm just disappointed Jerry didn't use it as a great opportunity to fire up the team...but as usual jerry doesn't seize the moment.

[four3two1]

I'm just disappoionted Jerry didn't use it as a gret opportunity to fire up the team...but as usual jerry doesn't sieze the moment.

i want to see a ball "accidentally" end up in the phillies dugout, in charlie manuel's face.

[four3two1]

its annoying that i feel like i'm more angry about it than the Mets are.

[Athena]

I bet he is freaking jacked.

Not being able to run, I bet he has been hitting the weights something fierce --- hopefully it doesn't screw him up too much

Agreed on both counts. I can only pray that he's added in a lot of flexibility and core stuff to balance out the strength. Last thing we need is for him to try and perform with a "brand spanking new body!" He might not know the operating instructions! ;-)

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

heh! Yup! The Bermuda Triangle. That's why "I'm tired of Port St. Lucie" made me smile for some reason.

And if I can be permitted a tiny bit of optimism, he is usually very measured in his quotes about his health. He might actually be feeling pretty well, if he would say that. Of course we won't have any guarantees. We won't know if he can play an entire season unless or until he actually does it.

He didn't give any percentiles. Very un-Beltran like.

[Athena]

I'm just disappointed Jerry didn't use it as a gret opportunity to fire up the team...but as usual jerry doesn't sieze the moment.

We don't know that he didn't do that privately. No point in dragging it out in the media. It's much easier when you've won a pennant to take pot shots at other teams.

You look a lot stupider trying it when your organization is in disarray.

I'm glad he's keeping his mouth shut.

[Athena]

He didn't give any percentiles. Very un-Beltran like.

Exactly! No equivocations.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

We don't know that he didn't do that privately. No point in dragging it out in the media. It's much easier when you've won a pennant to take pot shots at other teams.

You look a lot stupider trying it when your organization is in disarray.

I'm glad he's keeping his mouth shut.

Plus they already brought it up once before. Doing it again makes you look desperate. Binocs in the bullpen though, that's pretty foolish.

[sheadenizen]

We don't know that he didn't do that privately. No point in dragging it out in the media. It's much easier when you've won a pennant to take pot shots at other teams.

You look a lot stupider trying it when your organization is in disarray.

I'm glad he's keeping his mouth shut.

That actually was my 1st reaction. But upon further review, I wanted him to rally the troops.
No one is giving the mets credit for temperance, I can guarantee it.

[sheadenizen]

Plus they already brought it up once before. Doing it again makes you look desperate. Binocs in the bullpen though, that's pretty foolish.

I disagree. If the mets were the only ones saying anything....then maybe. But the Yanks ( who no one doubts), Rox and Dodgers also have accused them. So it doesn't make the mets look desparate at all.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

I disagree. If the mets were the only ones saying anything....then maybe. But the Yanks ( who no one doubts), Rox and Dodgers also have accused them. So it doesn't make the mets look deseparate at all.

I disagree with you disagreeing with me.

[sheadenizen]

I disagree with you disagreeing with me.

Get over it! ;)

[Ed in Westchester]

this whole Phillies shit gets me so heated. i keep thinking i'll care less the next day, and then i hear more about it and i'm just as mad. i want to hit someone. preferably a phillies fag.

the proper term is "phillies phucktard"

[sweetlew]

That actually was my 1st reaction. But upon further review, I wanted him to rally the troops.
No one is giving the mets credit for temperance, I can guarantee it.

Why say anything in the press.

Next time they face the Phillies -- a couple of batters get drilled

Of course, we would need to promote someone to start who can actually hurt somebody with a fast ball

[Athena]

That actually was my 1st reaction. But upon further review, I wanted him to rally the troops.
No one is giving the mets credit for temperance, I can guarantee it.

Yeah, but they won't get credit for anything else, either. If he had said something we would have 100 comments about how stupid his quotes were. He's in a lose/lose situation until he is fired or wins the division.

So I prefer he keeps his mouth shut.

[Ed in Westchester]

Plus they already brought it up once before. Doing it again makes you look desperate. Binocs in the bullpen though, that's pretty foolish.

what I found more interesting was the dude that was sitting behind home plate constantly on his cell phone while the Mets were in the field.
Not so while the Phils were.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

what I found more interesting was the dude that was sitting behind home plate constantly on his cell phone while the Mets were in the field.
Not so while the Phils were.

I don't remember that part. The only thing I've always noticed was a guy with a speed gun sitting in the front row in Philly.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

Those are some angry Canadians:

[Rave]

I wish the Mets would cheat. And preferably not get caught doing it.

Using binocs is pretty brazen though.

[sheadenizen]

Yeah, but they won't get credit for anything else, either.
that's the point. so do what you have to do. the only time the yanks ever get killed in the press is when they let the red Sox get away with drilling their players and don't retaliate.

Look, the whole thing is ridiculous to begin with, but I'd love to see the mets grow some cojones for a change.
I'm tired of jerry's monotone platitudes about everything.
Maybe the team would have a little fire if their manager had any.

[sheadenizen]

Those are some angry Canadians:


Is that Jason Bay...lol!

[Rave]

I'm rooting for the Habs to go all the way.

Go go Gio!

[sheadenizen]

I'm rooting for the Habs to go all the way.

Go go Gio!

i don't even know what that means. But go Gio!

[sweetlew]

Those are some angry Canadians:


I would be angry if I was Canadian as well

[Athena]

that's the point. so do what you have to do. the only time the yanks ever get killed in the press is when they let the red Sox get away with drilling their players and don't retaliate.

Look, the whole thing is ridiculous to begin with, but I'd love to see the mets grow some cojones for a change.
I'm tired of jerry's monotone platitudes about everything.
Maybe the team would have a little fire if their manager had any.

I understand. I'm just saying that it doesn't have to be shared with us and the media. Behind close doors is preferable to me.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

I'm rooting for the Habs to go all the way.

Go go Gio!

No love for Gomez?

[Rave]

i don't even know what that means. But go Gio!

Habs = Montreal Canadiens, who just sent the Penguins packing.

Gio - Brian Gionta, one of my favorite ex-Devils.

(That's Sid the Kid on the photos, btw.)

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

that's the point. so do what you have to do. the only time the yanks ever get killed in the press is when they let the red Sox get away with drilling their players and don't retaliate.

Look, the whole thing is ridiculous to begin with, but I'd love to see the mets grow some cojones for a change.
I'm tired of jerry's monotone platitudes about everything.
Maybe the team would have a little fire if their manager had any.

What having David and Jose get thrown out back to back games wasn't fire?

How exactly did Torre fire up his teams that won 4 WS?

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

(That's Sid the Kid on the photos, btw.)

Yeah, the guy they were fawning over a couple of months ago for scoring the gold medal winning goal.

[sheadenizen]

Habs = Montreal Canadiens, who just sent the Penguins packing.

Gio - Brian Gionta, one of my favorite ex-Devils.

(That's Sid the Kid on the photos, btw.)

ah, thanks for all the help. I thought the guy looked familiar ( Crosby) but couldn't quite place him.
How does Habs translate into the montreal canadiens?

[Rave]

No love for Gomez?

No. He's an ex-Ranger.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

Sad Penguins: (http://scores.espn.go.com/nhl/photos?gameId=300512016&photoId=626539)

[CatchDog]

I wish the Mets would cheat. And preferably not get caught doing it.

Using binocs is pretty brazen though.

Back in the day, Dykstra and Mookie used to be able to see the Phil's catcher, Lance Parish's forearm muscles ripple when he was calling an off speed pitch. With a fastball, he put down 1 finger. The curve was usually 2 and the changeup he'd flutter all 4 fingers. Leading off first, Mooks & Lenny could see his muscles flutter with the changeup and then they'd steal.

That's how it's done.

Using TV, binoculars or other means by people other than the players and coaches in the dugout is WRONG.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

ah, thanks for all the help. I thought the guy looked familiar ( Crosby) but couldn't quite place him.
How does Habs translate into the montreal canadiens?

Their early nickname was Les Habitantes.

Popular myth is that there's a small H in the large C that makes up their logo. But that really stands for Club de Hockey du Montreal.

[sheadenizen]

What having David and Jose get thrown out back to back games wasn't fire?


No. I think it was actually total frustration. Here are 2 guys struggling mightily (DW had just struck out 9 times in a row) . I see a big difference between passion and frustration. But you may call it passion if you like.

[sheadenizen]

Their early nickname was Les Habitantes.

Popular myth is that there's a small H in the large C that makes up their logo. But that really stands for Club de Hockey du Montreal.

Boy. The things you learn on metsgeek. Thanks!

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

No. I think it was actually total frustration. Here are 2 guys struggling mightily (DW had just struck out 9 times in a row) . I see a big difference between passion and frustration. But you may call it passion if you like.

I think it just showed they were emotionally invested in how they were performing and how it affected the team. Frustration, passion, whatever. I don't really care what you (the general you, not you specifically) want to attribute it as. They just need to do better.

If getting better at recognizing how pitchers are pitching you and understanding the situation in which their particular at bat falls requires passion then ok.

[Athena]

No. I think it was actually total frustration. Here are 2 guys struggling mightily (DW had just struck out 9 times in a row) . I see a big difference between passion and frustration. But you may call it passion if you like.

This is a good example, I think. Passion and frustration look very similar when you are a losing team. It's why Manuel can say it and people think he is firing up his team. Jerry Manuel says it and it's not going to be perceived the same way at all.

[CatchDog]

A while back, I had read that a former Phillie player (Marlon Anderson?) indicated that the Phils were stealing signs and relaying them by utilizing a buzzer in the dugout. For instance; 1 buzz = fastball, 2 = breaking ball and 3 = change up.

Someone from the dugout would then yell out using key words such as “come on kid”, “let’s go” or “big hit”.

The batter would then just need to listen and make the necessary adjustments.

[sheadenizen]

A while back, I had read that a former Phillie player (Marlon Anderson?) indicated that the Phils were stealing signs and relaying them by utilizing a buzzer in the dugout. For instance; 1 buzz = fastball, 2 = breaking ball and 3 = change up.

Someone from the dugout would then yell out using key words such as “come on kid”, “let’s go” or “big hit”.

The batter would then just need to listen and make the necessary adjustments.

and MLB will do nothing about it. Nothing but a "please stop it."

[Tim]

It isn't illegal is it? I mean using a buzzer is, but just stealing signs is not officially a no-no is it?

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

Knowing the Mets they'd set up a paper cup and string telephone set up.

[CatchDog]

Knowing the Mets they'd set up a paper cup and string telephone set up.

Ha Ha --that's classic! I'd envision it with barney cups or something.

[CatchDog]

and MLB will do nothing about it. Nothing but a "please stop it."

They're the Phillies. They can do no wrong.

[DL]

there's really absolutely nothing any of our guys can say in response to charlie's dumb shit, at least publicly, that they wouldn't end up getting murdered over by the media. we haven't won shit, they have and have owned us and we would be the ones getting killed for "loser talk" or some other stupid crap. these guys should be motivated enough to beat them, unfortunately we honestly aren't good enough to win most series against them

[DL]

what does piss me off is all these philly phags who are talking about what "crybabies" we have

i mean, whatever, your team cried like hell about jose putting his finger in the air after hitting a homer in a critical game, when they have some douchey attention whore showboats themselves. and this was before they won anything either

[CatchDog]

Not to mention Victorino's bush league attempt to knock the ball outta Castillo's mitt during a rundown last season. Not a peep was ever said about that. But if it would have been us, it would be yet another talking point for the Phils and media.

[DL]

i'm not gonna worry about anything that happened after 2008 b/c there's nothing we can say or do besides try to take care of business on the field. but it's fucking hypocritical to talk about our team "crying," especially in reference to frenchy bitching about the extra home games--and he's absolutely right--when your own team bitched about a "boisterous" celebration when they have some of the most annoyingly demonstrative guys out there

[John]

So if gee has fridge stuff what do we call perez stuff

[CatchDog]

Bulls-eye DL.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

So if gee has fridge stuff what do we call perez stuff

Shit, poo poo, caca, mierda, merde, scheiße, etc. Doesn't even deserve to be called "stuff", that would be an upgrade.

[Rave]

I thought Charlie’s comments were low-brow and pathetic. He was defensive (guilty), and the fact he brought the Mets into it shows how much we’re still under their skin. They’re the champs and we’re the 92L team, but he’s making us more relevant.

[Athena]

i'm not gonna worry about anything that happened after 2008 b/c there's nothing we can say or do besides try to take care of business on the field. but it's fucking hypocritical to talk about our team "crying," especially in reference to frenchy bitching about the extra home games--and he's absolutely right--when your own team bitched about a "boisterous" celebration when they have some of the most annoyingly demonstrative guys out there

Yeah. Well put.

The best thing is to not engage them in the media. They are the big men on campus right now. They will always look better and "more right" than us until we win the division.

[DL]

you know what's really funny about that jose "overcelebration" incident? after they won it all, all those dicks were talking up so much how that helped motivate them to win and overtake us, yet the very next day j-hole showed up late and got benched. lol whatever assholes. be thankful our bullpen imploded so much that year and our management stinks

[DL]

I thought Charlie’s comments were low-brow and pathetic. He was defensive (guilty), and the fact he brought the Mets into it shows how much we’re still under their skin. They’re the champs and we’re the 92L team, but he’s making us more relevant.

b-b-b-but we were the ones that cried first!

[Rave]

OK, so who pissed off Lunk?

[sheadenizen]

OK, so who pissed off Lunk?

the rangers?

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

the rangers?

The Canadiens beat Rainey's team, so I imagine there's some commutative properties there.

[Rave]

LOL that wouldn't put him off the Geek.

He hasn't posted in a while but he's been in AA, yesterday, I think.

Not sure what the protocol for missing moderators is.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

Let the inmates run the asylum? Lord of the Flies?

[Rave]

Let the inmates run the asylum? Lord of the Flies?

Lord of the Flies? A bit esoteric 'round these parts. I was thinking we call 911. :)

[SoCal Metfan]

Lunk is a mod? Who are the mods here anyway? I mean, I know Dep is one, but who else?

I'm a Full-Fledged Geek now, I should be let in on these things! :)

[Squadron Nye]

Wright 2010 Facts:
- Slugging 20 points higher than career average 542/519
- OBP 29 points higher than career average 419/390
- Projects to hit 34 homers--matches career season high
- Projects to steal 39 bases--would be a career season high

[DL]

LOL

[Athena]

LOL that wouldn't put him off the Geek.

He hasn't posted in a while but he's been in AA, yesterday, I think.

Not sure what the protocol for missing moderators is.

Really? He's been on AA, but not here?

I'm hurt!

[Athena]

Lunk is a mod? Who are the mods here anyway? I mean, I know Dep is one, but who else?

I'm a Full-Fledged Geek now, I should be let in on these things! :)

Just Lunk and Dep.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

Lord of the Flies? A bit esoteric 'round these parts. I was thinking we call 911. :)

We can call the Pleasure Dome and leave a message for Dep.

[DL]

stuff really does move slowly here without dep and lunk lol

[SoCal Metfan]

Wright 2010 Facts:
- Slugging 20 points higher than career average 542/519
- OBP 29 points higher than career average 419/390
- Projects to hit 34 homers--matches career season high
- Projects to steal 39 bases--would be a career season high

You forgot:
- Projects to be underappreciated by 83.4% of Mets fans.

[SoCal Metfan]

Just Lunk and Dep.

Hehehe. Now that I know that little tidbit, they have to make me Super Geek now. *rubs hands together evilly*

What? That's not how it works? Awwwww.

[SoCal Metfan]

stuff really does move slowly here without dep and lunk lol

Maybe you and Ramon can get into another catfight? :)

[Squadron Nye]

You forgot:
- Projects to be underappreciated by 83.4% of Mets fans.

lol true... the folks around here have been bitching non-stop about davey... It's about time we start looking at numbers and appreciating that while yes, he is on pace for a record number of strikeouts, the guy is putting up career high numbers doing it.

[Squadron Nye]

Hehehe. Now that I know that little tidbit, they have to make me Super Geek now. *rubs hands together evilly*

What? That's not how it works? Awwwww.

for 25 bones you could be the supreme geek master

[Athena]

Hehehe. Now that I know that little tidbit, they have to make me Super Geek now. *rubs hands together evilly*

What? That's not how it works? Awwwww.

Hahaha! Tough to get away with blackmail around here. Everyone is too proud of their "dark secrets."

[SoCal Metfan]

for 25 bones you could be the supreme geek master

Brilliant. No way my post count catches up to the current Super Geeks, so I think I need a shortcut.

Wait. Does the Ban Hammer come with? :)

[Squadron Nye]

ugh BIIIIIG conference call coming up with a new client.. Just wanted to pop in and rah-rah for davey a bit. See you geeks lata

[SoCal Metfan]

Upon further thought though, the temptation to mis-use the power of the Ban Hammer may be too great. Hehehe.

[DL]

Maybe you and Ramon can get into another catfight? :)

no thanks

i'd rather talk about how much we suck repeatedly, but there has to be a game going on for that to happen

[sweetlew]

Wright 2010 Facts:
- Slugging 20 points higher than career average 542/519
- OBP 29 points higher than career average 419/390
- Projects to hit 34 homers--matches career season high
- Projects to steal 39 bases--would be a career season high

Clearly he sucks!

[Squadron Nye]

I sent lunk a FB message to come back

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

Plus he needs to ban Dep for the weekend.

[DL]

alright let's get this rolling

we're not winning another game until after the subway series

[Rave]

alright let's get this rolling

we're not winning another game until after the subway series

So you're saying we'll beat the Phillies?

[DL]

lol i didn't look that far ahead in the schedule

[SoCal Metfan]

So you're saying we'll beat the Phillies?

Charlie will throw a game, just to prove the Mets are stealing signs too. :)

[DL]

Charlie will throw a game, just to prove the Mets are stealing signs too. :)

after they win it all again, he'll say it was the turning point

[Athena]

lol true... the folks around here have been bitching non-stop about davey... It's about time we start looking at numbers and appreciating that while yes, he is on pace for a record number of strikeouts, the guy is putting up career high numbers doing it.

He's having a weird season for sure. I have to admit the non-strikeout David is a hell of a lot more fun to watch. It's hard to reconcile the guy we see everyday with the career high OPS and wOBA. But he takes way too much flak, in my opinion.

[Athena]

I sent lunk a FB message to come back

Cool!

[CatchDog]

The Tiger's Miggy Cabrera and Bosch just hit back 2 back jacks against CC. Verlander on the hill for Detroit and the dude is dealing. Tigers 3-0 after 3.5.

[DL]

david only sucks when i say he does

[DL]

lol i should reword that. it sounds muy homo

[CatchDog]

Cool!

We just need a newbie to post. Lunk will be here and on him in a DC minute. :-)

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

We just need a newbie to post. Lunk will be here and on him in a DC minute. :-)

A DC minute? He might need to filibuster for a while.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

He's having a weird season for sure. I have to admit the non-strikeout David is a hell of a lot more fun to watch. It's hard to reconcile the guy we see everyday with the career high OPS and wOBA. But he takes way too much flak, in my opinion.

They don't put wOBA or BABIP on the scoreboard.

[Dave Magadan]

Uggh totally regret going out last night gotta go to work in a half...afternoon all.

[four3two1]

just preordered my EVO :D

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

How badly is JJ going to own us this tonight?

[sheadenizen]

Francoeur was ON A PACE to have career high walks after the first 3 weeks of the season. We see how well that's working out. He's not even on a pace to have a career average BA/OPS. Think he'll finish there?

[CatchDog]

MAGS !!!

Sorry. :rolleyes:

[Athena]

lol i should reword that. it sounds muy homo

Heh! :)

[Dave Magadan]

MAGS !!!

Sorry. :rolleyes:

Its all right dude, one to many guiness upsets my stomach...

[Tim]

I thought Lunk went to Fire Island...

[sheadenizen]

Oh no. JJ is pitching tonight? I didn't even look. Ugh! Now I'm sad....:(

[sheadenizen]

I thought Lunk went to Fire Island...

I thought he went away as well.

[Athena]

They don't put wOBA or BABIP on the scoreboard.

Wow! You are totally correct about that. Then he DOES suck. :(

[sheadenizen]

Catch are you going to be at all the games?

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

Wow! You are totally correct about that. Then he DOES suck. :(

New SI cover, Can Anyone Be This Streaky?

[Squadron Nye]

david only sucks when i say he does

Rawrrrr.. you're insatiable

[Athena]

MAGS !!!

Sorry. :rolleyes:

Lol!

DON'T SHOUT, CATCH!!!! HIS HEAD IS ACHEY!!!!

[Athena]

New SI cover, Can Anyone Be This Streaky?

Bwahahaha!!! That's awesome.

We need a photoshop expert stat!!

[sheadenizen]

Lol!

DON'T SHOUT, CATCH!!!! HIS HEAD IS ACHEY!!!!

that's exactly why he did it!

[Dave Magadan]

Lol!

DON'T SHOUT, CATCH!!!! HIS HEAD IS ACHEY!!!!

lol its only the stomach...but long night turned to early morning watching of The Mask the Eric Stoltz movie. That movie always makes me feel better.

[Tim]

didn't lunk go to some comic book/homo symposium?

[CatchDog]

Francoeur was ON A PACE to have career high walks after the first 3 weeks of the season. We see how well that's working out. He's not even on a pace to have a career average BA/OPS. Think he'll finish there?

I think he's just like Ollie. He is what he is.

Most Braves fans are doing the "told ya so" routine.

[Athena]

I thought he went away as well.

So he doesn't actually hate us??

[Squadron Nye]

Francoeur was ON A PACE to have career high walks after the first 3 weeks of the season. We see how well that's working out. He's not even on a pace to have a career average BA/OPS. Think he'll finish there?

Is that in response to my wright facts? Francoeur != Wright last I checked. I have full confidence davey can exceed his projections this year

[sheadenizen]

didn't lunk go to some comic book/homo symposium?

hahahahahahaha

[Dave Magadan]

Jets restructuring Revis' deal...he is set to make 1 Mill this year 4th year in 6 year rookie contract. And so it begins...

[Athena]

that's exactly why he did it!

I know! :)

[four3two1]

can we unban metshater? i'm spoilin for a fight today.


i want to discuss the greasiness of utley
the douchiness of victorino
and why rollins will never get into the HOF.

and then just for kicks. how the contract they gave howard was just moronic.

[Squadron Nye]

didn't lunk go to some comic book/homo symposium?

they make comic books exclusively for homos?

[Athena]

Is that in response to my wright facts? Francoeur != Wright last I checked. I have full confidence davey can exceed his projections this year

And the salient difference between these two players is that Francoeur's walks were drastically above expectations based on the player. So a regression isn't that surprising. (But it is disappointing.)

The things that David is doing well are things we can reasonably expect him to do. Those projections are not that out of line for him.

[Squadron Nye]

can we unban metshater? i'm spoilin for a fight today.


i want to discuss the greasiness of utley
the douchiness of victorino
and why rollins will never get into the HOF.

and then just for kicks. how the contract they gave howard was just moronic.

we banned someone?!?! Is the thread where it happened still around?

[Athena]

can we unban metshater? i'm spoilin for a fight today.


i want to discuss the greasiness of utley
the douchiness of victorino
and why rollins will never get into the HOF.

and then just for kicks. how the contract they gave howard was just moronic.

4321, did you see the article by Joe Posnanski about Howard's contract? A must read for those of us who like to see a division rival make a big misstep. (And who doesn't love that??)

[four3two1]

we banned someone?!?! Is the thread where it happened still around?

no idea...prbly tho. i'm only aware of one thread that was ever deleted.

[Tim]

they make comic books exclusively for homos?

AstroGlide Man

[Squadron Nye]

And the salient difference between these two players is that Francoeur's walks were drastically above expectations based on the player. So a regression isn't that surprising. (But it is disappointing.)

The things that David is doing well are things we can reasonably expect him to do. Those projections are not that out of line for him.

exactly. I don't think anyone here lent any real credence to frenchy's hot start outside of hopeful optimism :) The only significant outlier that dave has in his projections are K's.. which he projects to compile over 200! (yikes) Everything else is above career highs but not crazy

[four3two1]

4321, did you see the article by Joe Posnanski about Howard's contract? A must read for those of us who like to see a division rival make a big misstep. (And who doesn't love that??)

hmm..i don't think so. do you have link?

[CatchDog]

Catch are you going to be at all the games?

Tonight with my 10 year old and Saturday with my wife.

Refuse to go to an Ollie game (Friday). Plans for Sunday.

Get the big McGuirk by having the next series played in San Juan. Maybe that's a good thing.

[Squadron Nye]

AstroGlide Man

LOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLl

[Dave Magadan]

All right guys heading to work...c ya's! LGM

[CatchDog]

CC getting mauled by the Tigers. 6-0 after 6.

[Ed in Westchester]

AstroGlide Man

The Ambiguously Gay Duo!

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

The Ambiguously Gay Duo!

I doubt he's that ambiguous about it.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

CC getting mauled by the Tigers. 6-0 after 6.

Still worth it over Santana...right NY media?

[Squadron Nye]

CC getting mauled by the Tigers. 6-0 after 6.

I see what you did there.....

[Rave]

F-mart sucks. Meanwhile Stanton is OPSing 1.337 and Strasburg threw a 6-inning no-hitter.

DOOOoooOOOOOmmmmmmMEeeD

[four3two1]

New eminem songs makes me think back to the good ol days.



"when i die, so does hip hop"

[four3two1]

F-mart sucks. Meanwhile Stanton is OPSing 1.337 and Strasburg threw a 6-inning no-hitter.

DOOOoooOOOOOmmmmmmMEeeD

s'okay...we still have mike jacobs down there.

[Athena]

hmm..i don't think so. do you have link?

Sorry! I got on a call. Here it is! (http://joeposnanski.com/JoeBlog/2010/04/28/howards-end/) It's very balanced actually. He's a fan of Howard and has good things to say about his strengths. But he doesn't think it should have been so long or for so much, given Howard's age and skill set.

Posnanski:
Now, Howard is off to a sluggish start in 2010. His sluggish start means no more than Yuniesky Betancourt’s hot start — talk to me in August — but the scary truth is that this Howard contract could be outrageously obsolete BEFORE IT EVEN BEGINS.

[Athena]

exactly. I don't think anyone here lent any real credence to frenchy's hot start outside of hopeful optimism :) The only significant outlier that dave has in his projections are K's.. which he projects to compile over 200! (yikes) Everything else is above career highs but not crazy

I would have to think the walks are super high, too. Just like the k's, no? I'm too lazy to double check. But I think of the strikeouts and walks as the strange stats. I'll look it up at some point today.

[Squadron Nye]

Newsflash:

Due to the front line moving to NYC in the ongoing war on terror all Met/Phillies games will be played in Philadelphia

[SoCal Metfan]

Newsflash:

Charlie says, "Quit whining."

[SoCal Metfan]

Sorry! I got on a call. Here it is! (http://joeposnanski.com/JoeBlog/2010/04/28/howards-end/) It's very balanced actually. He's a fan of Howard and has good things to say about his strengths. But he doesn't think it should have been so long or for so much, given Howard's age and skill set.

Posnanski:

Joe Pos is hands down the best sportswriter on the planet, and second place isn't close.

[SoCal Metfan]

I would have to think the walks are super high, too. Just like the k's, no? I'm too lazy to double check. But I think of the strikeouts and walks as the strange stats. I'll look it up at some point today.

This is correct.

DW's BB and K rates:
2010: 18.2 % 37.3 %
Career: 11.6 % 20.7 %

He's both walking and striking out at a much higher rate than in the past. It's definitely odd, but so long as he can maintain his spectacular production, we really shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth.

[SoCal Metfan]

The two scariest numbers (to me) for DW are his contact percentage (career low) and his swinging strike percentage (career high). After never making less than 80.4% contact on swings and averaging around 83%, he's at 72.2 this season. His swinging strike %, which averaged around 7% and had never been above 8.4% in a season, is currently sitting at 11%.

[four3two1]

This is correct.

DW's BB and K rates:
2010: 18.2 % 37.3 %
Career: 11.6 % 20.7 %

He's both walking and striking out at a much higher rate than in the past. It's definitely odd, but so long as he can maintain his spectacular production, we really shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth.

so if he's walking more and striking out more, either he's hitting at a lower rate or making other outs at a lower rate (flyball, ground outs). If its the latter, than is it really that big of an issue? I mean aside from the few times when has to sacrifice out to move the runner over or get him in, an out is an out.

[Squadron Nye]

The two scariest numbers (to me) for DW are his contact percentage (career low) and his swinging strike percentage (career high). After never making less than 80.4% contact on swings and averaging around 83%, he's at 72.2 this season. His swinging strike %, which averaged around 7% and had never been above 8.4% in a season, is currently sitting at 11%.

Which in a nutshell is why he's striking out more. He's also swinging at more balls out of the zone

[Squadron Nye]

I'm thrilled with his production this year although to be honest I do agree with Athena that the low strikeout DW was more fun to watch.

[Bob A. Booey]

whats the haps ????

[SoCal Metfan]

I'm thrilled with his production this year although to be honest I do agree with Athena that the low strikeout DW was more fun to watch.

I think everybody agrees that the low DW strikeout was more aesthetically pleasing. But worrying about him is like worry about the color of the lifejackets on the Titanic, there are more important things that need fixing.

[four3two1]

does nobody have the answer to this?

DW's strikeout rate is higher, but what about his other outs? flyouts, groundouts?

[Athena]

Joe Pos is hands down the best sportswriter on the planet, and second place isn't close.

Totally agree!! I love him.

[Future]

I like Joe a lot. Great writer.

[Athena]

This is correct.

DW's BB and K rates:
2010: 18.2 % 37.3 %
Career: 11.6 % 20.7 %

He's both walking and striking out at a much higher rate than in the past. It's definitely odd, but so long as he can maintain his spectacular production, we really shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth.

Aha! Thank you!

[Athena]

so if he's walking more and striking out more, either he's hitting at a lower rate or making other outs at a lower rate (flyball, ground outs). If its the latter, than is it really that big of an issue? I mean aside from the few times when has to sacrifice out to move the runner over or get him in, an out is an out.

I'm not super knowledgeable about this, but don't we prefer to have outs from balls put into play? Aren't they a tiny bit better than strikeouts on average? Or did I make that up?

[Squadron Nye]

I'm not super knowledgeable about this, but don't we prefer to have outs from balls put into play? Aren't they a tiny bit better than strikeouts on average? Or did I make that up?

They are weighted better, yes. Mostly because you have the opportunity for an error, sacrifice and/or moving runners around.

[Future]

Basically he's making less contact than ever. And its alarming. And the K rate hasn't led to him getting more doubles and HRs than ever before. His OBP is up, but that's not what this team needs...this team needs him to drive in runs, not walk like crazy.

Its not his fault the rest of the team won't drive him in.

[four3two1]

I'm not super knowledgeable about this, but don't we prefer to have outs from balls put into play? Aren't they a tiny bit better than strikeouts on average? Or did I make that up?

i understand this. what i'm saying though is that if we look past contact, and just at hits. if his hits are trending with his hit rate in years past (or are higher) and his BB his higher and his strike rate is higher, that must mean his other outs rate has to be lower. If he's trading more strikeouts for less flyouts and groundball outs i'm okay with that. as long as his hit rate and walk rate aren't going down.

plus with balls put into play, you have to factor in the posibililty of a double play or triple play as well.

[Athena]

They are weighted better, yes. Mostly because you have the opportunity for an error, sacrifice and/or moving runners around.

Yes. That's what I thought.

[Squadron Nye]

Basically he's making less contact than ever. And its alarming. And the K rate hasn't led to him getting more doubles and HRs than ever before. His OBP is up, but that's not what this team needs...this team needs him to drive in runs, not walk like crazy.

Its not his fault the rest of the team won't drive him in.

but 2010 slugging is above his career average. nuff said

[Future]

but 2010 slugging is above his career average. nuff said

Why don't both sides say small sample size?

[Squadron Nye]

i understand this. what i'm saying though is that if we look past contact, and just at hits. if his hits are trending with his hit rate in years past (or are higher) and his BB his higher and his strike rate is higher, that must mean his other outs rate has to be lower. If he's trading more strikeouts for less flyouts and groundball outs i'm okay with that. as long as his hit rate and walk rate aren't going down.

plus with balls put into play, you have to factor in the posibililty of a double play or triple play as well.


I'm a bottom line type of guy and the bottom line is that he's producing above career average. Will trading groundouts for strikeouts hurt his game? Maybe but it seems negligible to me.

[Squadron Nye]

ok future I'll defer to that.. It doesn't look like his strikeouts are going away but his power is returning so far. He's not doing it like we all want but he is getting it done (so far, caveat). I'll worry more about reyes since it really looks like batting third got into his head.

[Athena]

i understand this. what i'm saying though is that if we look past contact, and just at hits. if his hits are trending with his hit rate in years past (or are higher) and his BB his higher and his strike rate is higher, that must mean his other outs rate has to be lower. If he's trading more strikeouts for less flyouts and groundball outs i'm okay with that. as long as his hit rate and walk rate aren't going down.

plus with balls put into play, you have to factor in the posibililty of a double play or triple play as well.

It's not quite a complete compensation. His batting average is lower than his career. His OPS+ is at a career high. So he is getting fewer hits, walking more and k's more. But his HR%, XBH% and extra base hits/hit are all near or higher than his career. So I think - if I can be permitted an oversimplification - extra base hits and power are static, but the singles are being eaten up by more strikeouts and more BB's. The strikeouts are outpacing the BB's compared to his career but off the peak of 2009.

[Future]

I never thought Jose was mentally fragile. But its obvious he is. Pagan is doing really well hitting wise to boot.

[Athena]

Why don't both sides say small sample size?

True.

[Future]

I'll say this, I was never a person who refused to ignore the stats but regardless, I am watching DW and don't feel like I'm watching an elite player anymore.

Maybe that's unfair. But the clutch thing, etc...the inability to hit fastballs anymore, its just weirding me out.

[MyFavBaseballSquadron]

I'll say this, I was never a person who refused to ignore the stats but regardless, I am watching DW and don't feel like I'm watching an elite player anymore.

Maybe that's unfair. But the clutch thing, etc...the inability to hit fastballs anymore, its just weirding me out.

I tend to agree with something one of the geeks said the other day. I think he's gotten streakier from years past. He hasn't hit a prolonged hot streak this year and the contrast between how he looks at home and on the road is quite alarming so far this year.

[Athena]

I'll say this, I was never a person who refused to ignore the stats but regardless, I am watching DW and don't feel like I'm watching an elite player anymore.

Maybe that's unfair. But the clutch thing, etc...the inability to hit fastballs anymore, its just weirding me out.

Yeah, I totally agree that he's not at his best. And I'm not going to be thrilled if this strikeout thing never gets resolved.

For me the point is - if he can still produce excellent numbers while struggling badly at the plate, then I can be optimistic that a solution can be found. He's having a lot of problems, but there is obviously still a lot of talent and strength at his disposal. I want the old David back, but the current one is still our best hitter and I'm not going to spend a ton of time emphasizing his weaknesses. When Jose, Bay, and Francoeur are near expected levels, I'll have time to bitch about David. ;)

[four3two1]

It's not quite a complete compensation. His batting average is lower than his career. His OPS+ is at a career high. So he is getting fewer hits, walking more and k's more. But his HR%, XBH% and extra base hits/hit are all near or higher than his career. So I think - if I can be permitted an oversimplification - extra base hits and power are static, but the singles are being eaten up by more strikeouts and more BB's. The strikeouts are outpacing the BB's compared to his career but off the peak of 2009.


hmmm...very succinct!


i'm still not terribly worried for the moment. and i don't know if i'd want more singles, less strikeouts, but also lower HR% and XBH%, which is always a possibility as well.

[Athena]

. . . And deep down I think that David won't fix anything about his swing and his approach unless he believes that someone else will pick up the slack while he tinkers. I know that "he's pressing" is an overused, facile excuse. But on some level I really believe it.

[SoCal Metfan]

Why don't both sides say small sample size?

Because it's in line with his career production (which isn't a small sample) so isn't a substantial reason to suspect it's an issue with the sample size.

[Athena]

hmmm...very succinct!


i'm still not terribly worried for the moment. and i don't know if i'd want more singles, less strikeouts, but also lower HR% and XBH%, which is always a possibility as well.

That last part is true. Can't we just have 2006/2007 David?? That's the one that I want! ;-)

[Future]

. . . And deep down I think that David won't fix anything about his swing and his approach unless he believes that someone else will pick up the slack while he tinkers. I know that "he's pressing" is an overused, facile excuse. But on some level I really believe it.

Less someone picking up the slack and more HoJo telling him he's doing great.

[Joe A.]

Totally off topic, but is it possible that the Yankees' prospects have been totally UNDERRATED the past few years?

Hughes
Gardner
A. Jackson
Kennedy
Clippard
Tabata tearing up AAA

[SoCal Metfan]

I tend to agree with something one of the geeks said the other day. I think he's gotten streakier from years past. He hasn't hit a prolonged hot streak this year and the contrast between how he looks at home and on the road is quite alarming so far this year.

Pretty sure every baseball player (even the great ones) are streaky. It's the nature of the game. Even Pujols had a 8 game streak where he OPS'd something like .650.

[Squadron Nye]

Because it's in line with his career production (which isn't a small sample) so isn't a substantial reason to suspect it's an issue with the sample size.

:) you said it

[Future]

Well Tabata was hyped long before he was a Yankee prospect.

Hughes was always a stud. Clippard...meh.

[SoCal Metfan]

Yeah, I totally agree that he's not at his best. And I'm not going to be thrilled if this strikeout thing never gets resolved.

For me the point is - if he can still produce excellent numbers while struggling badly at the plate, then I can be optimistic that a solution can be found. He's having a lot of problems, but there is obviously still a lot of talent and strength at his disposal. I want the old David back, but the current one is still our best hitter and I'm not going to spend a ton of time emphasizing his weaknesses. When Jose, Bay, and Francoeur are near expected levels, I'll have time to bitch about David. ;)

This is true....well except Frenchy, sadly what he's doing now *is* his expected levels.

[Future]

Btw, Athena I am watching Supernatural, and the line about the elephant.

"An elephant, like full on BABAR!?"

I couldn't stop laughing.

[Future]

Why does Ganesh have to be a black guy.

At least Kali is an Indian actress.

[Athena]

This is true....well except Frenchy, sadly what he's doing now *is* his expected levels.

Hahaha! I crossed my mind! I actually felt a little intellectually dishonest putting him in the list. Then I thought, "He's not supposed to be quite this bad, is he? IS HE??!?"

[Athena]

Why does Ganesh have to be a black guy.

At least Kali is an Indian actress.

Yup! I wondered the same thing! I liked the actor, he did a good job, but the casting was bizarre. I can't figure out why they did it. Maybe they'll do a commentary on that ep.

I loved that episode. Kali and Baldr were awesome.

[four3two1]

is youtube working for you guys?

[Future]

Yup! I wondered the same thing! I liked the actor, he did a good job, but the casting was bizarre. I can't figure out why they did it. Maybe they'll do a commentary on that ep.

I loved that episode. Kali and Baldr were awesome.

I've loved the Trickster actor since Band of Brothers.

I don't know why they did the casting that way, they should have hired a big Indian guy.

[Future]

If they didn't want Ganesh, they could have picked an African God.

[Athena]

If they didn't want Ganesh, they could have picked an African God.

Yeah. I don't know. It struck me as strange at the time.

[Athena]

is youtube working for you guys?

Not entirely, no.

[Future]

Sad about Gabriel.

[Future]

Everyone leave?

[DL]

hahahaha espn has all the heavy hitters on the cavs/c's game tonight

[SoCal Metfan]

I started a game thread, just to change things up.

[Dogcatcher]

He's having a weird season for sure. I have to admit the non-strikeout David is a hell of a lot more fun to watch. It's hard to reconcile the guy we see everyday with the career high OPS and wOBA. But he takes way too much flak, in my opinion.

I agree completely..the guy has been the foundation of our franchise for years, never wants a day off, total stand up guy, always answers questions, never leaves the locker room early, and carries the burden all at the ripe age of 25. He doesnt hit for power, he's a wimp, he strikes out to much..the fans kill him. Now they are booing him?

Its not his fault the owners built a stadium designed to screw him..he's trying to adjust and is probably pressing. But ill take a team full of D Wrights, and Im kinda tired of reading all the whining about him here and in the media...its just way overblown.