Friday Rockpile: The Road
by Greg Stanwood on Jul 23, 2010 7:01 AM MDT
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Friday Commentary:
Call it a consideration of flaw in professional character: if I'm some sort of stage performance artist, who can only perform on a stage that is comfortable to me, am I a good stage performer?
Probably not.
What if I'm a baseball player?
We can can cite faulty pitching or anemic offense until the cows come home. We all know what the Colorado Rockies are capable of. The question is, what wizard snatches it when we get off the plane in a visiting city? Or is it just lost along with the team's personal luggage?
Further, we can argue feverishly about what positions need upgrading and what our best chips are for putting a player trade in place to help secure our advancement. Being the local independent centrist neutral moderate subjective-obsessed relativist, I can say with some personal satisfaction that I really don't care to speculate on such things. What I cannot say is that the team has a visible flaw, and it's not the kind of flaw that can be blamed on a specific coach, or a specific player, or a specific Jim Tracy. Don Baylor could be managing the Orioles, Dan Uggla could be our second baseman and Jim Tracy could be selling hot dogs at the concessions pavilion, and I feel fairly certain we'd still be lost on The Road.
But wait, that counts as speculation. Am I placing myself into some torturous purgatory where my core values and ideals are regularly sabotaged, forcing my to accept the fact that me or anyone in the position of "baseball fan" is quite easily labeled "hypocrite"?
It's not Carlos Gonzalez striking out at a key at bat, or Manuel Corpas getting a call in a late and important inning, or an frequently inconsistent lineup card that strikes fear into my brain when I consider the following evening's baseball affair. It's simply that little @ sign following the words "Colorado Rockies". I'm not going to even pretend I know how to address or solve this problem. But I hope someone does, and even if they just pretend, maybe it will work.
Have some links (post-jump).
Jack Etkin at Inside the Rockies reports that Taylor Buchholz' rehab assignment has been completed, and it is time for the team to make an important decision: activate or option. DEAREST ME. Is it really so possible that I can spend so much time researching and analyzing MLB transactions, yet be so consistently wrong about a player's option status? With the Jonathan Herrera confusion still keeping me up at night, now suddenly Taylor Buchholz grew an option tree in his backyard? This, I know: Buchholz has been optioned three times before, and has spent more than 20 days in the minors each time. If Buchholz has an option, I'm just going to make it easy on myself and decide that MLB transaction rules as they apply to certain players are drawn Dan O'Dowd's straw hat.
The decision on what to do with Buchholz, whether it makes sense or not, is expected today.
Etkin also reports, as I did yesterday, that minor league starting pitchers Ethan Hollingsworth, Parker Frazier and Josh Sullivan have all been promoted, moves that are expected to be permanent. Hollingsworth moves to AA Tulsa, while Frazier and Sullivan join A+ Modesto.
MLB.com's Thomas Harding feels we can add Brad Hawpe to the list of players we need to see returning to some sort of form from injury, and soon. Harding is referring to Hawpe's body slam into the fence in Anaheim, nearly a month ago.
"It'll probably feel better around Christmas," - Brad Hawpe
Gee Brad, I know you're joking, but that's not doing a lot to inspire my confidence, especially since we may need you to join our 3-5 person 1B juggling act.
That list of news items also contains some interesting notes about the Philadelphia series that starts today, particularly in regard to the drama that occurred the last time we faced the Phillies. The Phillies will be beginning their tenure with a brand new hitting coach, which can be read about here in this article by Philadelphia Daily News author David Murphy. Also of note is Todd Helton's on again off again rehab, which started off has him being back right away, which moved to a few days later, which moved to a rehab assignment, which moved to more strengthening and conditioning. Many of us had more than an inkling that Helton was not going to be ready to come off the DL immediately. I even predicted that it would be more than a little while before we saw Todd again. It's clear that the organization was really hoping he'd be ready to go by now, but we can all be pleased that at the very least, they're not letting the name Todd Helton speak the most volumes about how healthy he really is. I just wonder if the next step is "maybe in September".
Michael S. Schmidt of the New York Times (accessed through the Denver Post) gives some details on the upcoming increase in random drug testing in the minor leagues. The tests will be focusing on detecting human growth hormone. Some people have expressed concern that these tests may ping dozens of minor league players, throwing the whole system into chaos. That remains to be seen, but the question rises... if HGH is illegal to be used without permission (which in the MLB, it is), then why would so many minor leaguers be dabbling in this?
Finally, this community article by Fangraphs user Buizly makes detects some interesting patterns in All Star voting. Take a look.
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Comments
Well, well,
it appears I am the first one awake.
I would vote for our offense as a whole, even though it seems we srore a lot when our pitching is bad…I don’t know, but we need more “clutch hits”, not just hits with risp, but when we REALLY need them.
So, that’s my 2 cents.
I have a presentation at 9, so wish me luck!
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 7:27 AM MDT via mobile reply actions
Well.....good luck!!!
And yeah, it doesn’t matter who our hitting coach is, who our manager is, and who our hitters our….I’d swear it’s simply club policy to hermetically seal our offense, not to be opened until the next homestand….
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
Thanks!
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 7:43 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
Krieger's article was very intersting
because I think he was passed some off the record stuff by the front office.
Notably, that Hawpe might be a trade/DFA candidate, and that the Rockies have been actively looking at a “better than #2” starter.
thought the part about Hawpe was especially interesting.
And the mention of Dan Haren surprised me somewhat as I don’t really see the FO making a move for that level of pitcher. But this is JMO.
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
Krieger's articles are always interesting
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 10:27 AM MDT up reply actions
Well, maybe we *can* take at least 3 of 4 this weekend...
Kyle Kendrick and J.A. Happ will be recalled from the minors to make starts against Colorado on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
JA Happ shut us down
last year, which was quite annoying.
Yes, but this year, he hasn't shut down much of anyone
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
Hopefully.
Actually, what would be really nice is if we go into Philly and sweep them. We’ve swept them before, let’s do it again. They are scuffling a little now, and we should be freakin pissed off at how we’ve been playing…..so maybe our players will wake up in this series. I certainly hope so. But to have two walk-off losses in a series is really a heartbreaker.
Petition the league!!!
Next year, all Rockies games to be played at Coors Field. “Out of town” games will be shown on the jumbotron at each of the other teams stadiums.
Of course, living in LA, I’m very much opposed to this. But I can envision a world where I make pilgrimages to Coors instead of dodger stadium, AT&T or Petco….
by attackparrot on Jul 23, 2010 7:59 AM MDT via mobile reply actions
This is where I have an idea that would really make some revenue.....
Holographic technology is improving all the time. We have some pretty cool looking stuff out there now.
Imagine if all away games were broadcast at Coors holographically – as if the players were really on the field. Would you go? Of course if we could replace the Philly fans with holographic Colorado fans that would be nice but…. :p
Oh come on.
This is just a hypothetical. I’m curious if people would come to something like that.
If you didn’t know, Bill Gates appeared in holographic form already giving a presentation:
The technology exists. Just probably not on the scale or affordability that would be necessary, and it probably is not viewable in bright sunlight just yet.
Perhaps...
But even if the technology exists, I just have to assume you’re hitting the crack pipe a little to think it’s a linear transition to go from a conference call to filling stadia.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
It's not that much of a stretch.
And again, this is hypothetical.
I suppose people back in the day who said that every home would have a computer someday got the same responses.
So did the people
who said that Beta and Laserdisk were the next big things.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
Where did I say this was the "next big thing"
I’m just curious that, if it existed, would you go? Knowing that it wasn’t really taking place there.
Would there be beer sales?
Then yes, I’d go.
Ignorance of the American League is a sign of good moral character.
Notorious Hat Liar
"Cheap tacos are rightous!"-My Daughter
The beers would have to be half price
if we’re not even seeing “real” players.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
The beers would be holographic, as well
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
sweet
no DUIs.
And that one is low and outside, Eldred takes it for ball four.
by frightened inmate #2 on Jul 23, 2010 9:13 AM MDT up reply actions
What's the fun of that though?
LoDo Magic, The Ghost of Tulo's Mullet or Seth Smith's beard - call it what you will but it is neither unimpressive or unsustainable!
Well, it does kinda put Michelob Ultra to shame
…as does any beer that you know…uh…actually has flavor
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
IAWTC
LoDo Magic, The Ghost of Tulo's Mullet or Seth Smith's beard - call it what you will but it is neither unimpressive or unsustainable!
Beta was superior to VHS
Laserdisc was crap
And its all about the scalability of the tech.
Seth Smith's beard looks on in anticipation.
Yankee Haters Encouragement Group Member #π
Beta WAS superior
but if I memmer correctly it was much costlier and marketed terribly.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
much more expensive. this is what killed it IMO
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 10:17 AM MDT up reply actions
And laserdisc wasn't really a failure...
It was just a stepping stone to DVD. DVD is the same tech, just smaller. It’s the size of the laserdisc that killed it.
Word.
So did Blu-Ray win that battle with HD-DVD? I’m not on the up and up anymore.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
Yes, and I'm still pissed
Only 6 weeks after I bought my HD-DVD player.
I’ve refused to buy bluray discs, even though I actually do now have a bluray player, sorta by default
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
by Mondogarage on Jul 23, 2010 10:40 AM MDT up reply actions
I had an HD-DVD player as well.
The only way Blu-Ray won was money. HD-DVD was better.
I have a PS3 though now anyway.
PS3 eh?
I think that swayed the battle, when Sony put it’s weight with the blu ray
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
Actually, what swayed it was...
….when Disney put its weight behind it.
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
by Mondogarage on Jul 23, 2010 10:42 AM MDT up reply actions
Well,it was studios who eventually fell the way of BluRay
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
by Mondogarage on Jul 23, 2010 10:46 AM MDT up reply actions
Sony being involved with bluray
was the downside. beta, mini-disk, umds, memory sticks.
Sony has always tried to make these things catch on, but they end up coming out as Sony only use.
Bluray was the exception.
And Blu-Ray will be short lived.
Since sooner than later all physical based media will succumb to content on demand. You want a physical copy? It will be cheaper to put it on a read-only flash memory medium that doesn’t need special hardware to read it.
Seth Smith's beard looks on in anticipation.
Yankee Haters Encouragement Group Member #π
And really, the Pron industry had something to do with its failure.
Seth Smith's beard looks on in anticipation.
Yankee Haters Encouragement Group Member #π
You seriously need to relax dood.
I was just giving you a hard time because it was a pretty grandiose and far fetched “forward thinking” idea.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
I'd pay to see Hologram Princess Leia play
And that one is low and outside, Eldred takes it for ball four.
by frightened inmate #2 on Jul 23, 2010 8:30 AM MDT up reply actions
Help me Obi Wan Kenobi...
Suppose that MCC would still complain about the humidor on games they lost to us in SF, but were holographically projected at Coors?
by attackparrot on Jul 23, 2010 8:46 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
are the balls real or are those holograms too?
And that one is low and outside, Eldred takes it for ball four.
by frightened inmate #2 on Jul 23, 2010 8:47 AM MDT up reply actions
the humidor is a hologram
LoDo Magic, The Ghost of Tulo's Mullet or Seth Smith's beard - call it what you will but it is neither unimpressive or unsustainable!
Help me Tulowitzki, you're our only hope!
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
by Mondogarage on Jul 23, 2010 9:12 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think
this would be a great idea for playoff games
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
The Phillies can play six more home games than road games this year
Can’t we?
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 10:36 AM MDT up reply actions
I think that the problem lies
with a bad case of Barmesitus and Hawpeitus. Not that they are bad players, but they are streaky. I’m not sure why these two have collectively become the model for the entire franchise, but our postseason chances seem to depend on “streakiness”. I’m pretty sure that they have a Successories poster in the locker room with Will Ferrell yelling “Were Going Streaking” . we just need to find a way to remove this poster, or enjoy the ride………
Half of this game is 90% mental.
by christianrockie on Jul 23, 2010 8:06 AM MDT reply actions
Barmes and Hawpe have been pretty terrible lately.
It seems that every time Barmes is up in a key situation he pops out in the infield or strikes out. Hawpe just strikes out. I know that’s not totally true, but in this road trip they have done a whole lot of nothing. And Cargo has been striking out way too much, chasing down and away bad. Fowler can’t hit anything right now.
I like Herrera
Fowler
Herrera
Cargo
Tulo
1B
Smith/Spilly
Olivo
Stewart
Is a lineup I would like to see
I think we've gotten away from that a bit.
Because of certain pitchers, and maybe that has carried over more than it should.
Yeah I wouldn't mind seeing that, except replace Olivo with Ianetta.
CDI has been a bit more consistent than Olivo lately.
It’s so frustrating knowing that our players can really put up some numbers, but then we don’t. We need Tulo back.
you will see a fairly straight platoon with catchers due to rest.
But I am not a member of the church of Iannetta.
Oh yes I do understand that.
Olivo was getting more playing time, but now with CDI improving it’s more 50/50.
Where is the game being played?
If it’s at Coors, the only reason not to play Olivo is to rest him. If it’s on the road, it probably needs to be CDI.
Bazinga!
by Junction Rox on Jul 23, 2010 11:25 AM MDT up reply actions
Olivo is terrible on the road, as is CarGo
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 10:38 AM MDT up reply actions
The playing time related to Olivo's option will be a major factor also.
No way the Rox want that option flipping to a player one.
If Olivo is bowled over with an offer, I'm sure he'd leave
But he seems to genuinely love Colorado. I wouldn’t be surprised if he looks around and picks up his own option
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 11:17 AM MDT up reply actions
The problem is that even if he wants to return, he could want more money,.
PROJECT LIBRA: Depth / Transactions
by Greg Stanwood on Jul 23, 2010 2:25 PM MDT up reply actions
Point
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 2:55 PM MDT up reply actions
Well, he'd totally be worth the money we offered to Torrealba last offseason
And that would be a fairly significant raise for Olivo
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
It has been nice that team has played fairly well
while Tulo is out, and specifically Herrera, who has done an admirable job to say the least. However, this is where Tulo is truly missed IMO. We don’t have a leader on this team when things aren’t quite right, except Tulo. I think his presence will be a major boost to the team and is coming none too soon.
"Whenever I see an old lady slip and fall on a wet sidewalk, my first instinct is to laugh. But then I think, what if I was an ant, and she fell on me. Then it wouldn't seem quite so funny."
Jack Handy quote
by smokinRox on Jul 23, 2010 8:34 AM MDT reply actions 2 recs
OT: Is there going to be an OT thread today
Or are The JDub and me going to pollute the real rockpile?
Ignorance of the American League is a sign of good moral character.
Notorious Hat Liar
"Cheap tacos are rightous!"-My Daughter
LOL
You are complex and contain multitudes…but shame is not in your catalog!
Ignorance of the American League is a sign of good moral character.
Notorious Hat Liar
"Cheap tacos are rightous!"-My Daughter
I'd make one,
but then RMN will delete his boss’s OT thread when he finally comes around.
"No Mission Too Difficult, No Sacrifice Too Great—Duty First" - 1st Infantry Division Motto
Purple Row - Covering all your Rockies needs!
SB Nation Denver - The regional hub for Denver sports!
Diplomatic and Military History Book Review - My other blog where I go all historical on you.
Not sure why, but...
….I was totally expecting a rickroll there.
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
Go Rockies.
And that one is low and outside, Eldred takes it for ball four.
by frightened inmate #2 on Jul 23, 2010 8:46 AM MDT reply actions
yes.
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 8:48 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
Shutup jdub.
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 8:50 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
Leave my friend alone!
Rowsdower! But why, Rowsdower?
WHEN CHICKS HAVE HOT FRIENDS AND THERE MIGHT BE MORE THAN ONE HOT FRIEND DUCKS FLY TOGETHER
Denver.SBNation.com
/giggles
Okay, Muzia, only because you said so.
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 8:53 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
Yep, Muzia
You still got it with the ladies!
Ignorance of the American League is a sign of good moral character.
Notorious Hat Liar
"Cheap tacos are rightous!"-My Daughter
Just read this...
Some competing teams are now suggesting again that the Phillies should just have kept Cliff Lee, whom they traded to Seattle last December, since they are now trying to trade for a starting pitcher.
Reminded me of a brief anecdote from last night.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
heehee
Now the day can officxially begin.i told jdub something mean. you have no idea what this does for my confidence, and i really need it right now!
/giggles
Haha, just messin with you
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 9:00 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
That's what I'm here for.
To boost everyone’s self confidence.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
I'd say poor luck with injuries and unsustainably poor performance in high-leverage situations are to blame.
The writer formerly known as Jabberwocky
READ and LEARN about the business of baseball at Purple Row Academy
Eschew Obfuscation!
the injury bug bit us bad this year.
if we could stop being hurt and could consistently put our best team on the field – we would be a scary team to face.
"Ninety feet between a hot dog and my mouth is too far" - Maria M (SDCAT09 is awesome for coming up with this fake quote for me!)
Super Overlady Of the Ubaldo Lovers Club.
Proud Member of the PR gynocracy.
by Maria M on Jul 23, 2010 9:04 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
That's what I'm saying...I don't think that it's anything in the poll, not even Tracy's strange lineups.
The writer formerly known as Jabberwocky
READ and LEARN about the business of baseball at Purple Row Academy
Eschew Obfuscation!
it's hard to blame him for the lineups
when are guys keep getting hurt.
"Ninety feet between a hot dog and my mouth is too far" - Maria M (SDCAT09 is awesome for coming up with this fake quote for me!)
Super Overlady Of the Ubaldo Lovers Club.
Proud Member of the PR gynocracy.
Seth Smith disagrees with you
The writer formerly known as Jabberwocky
READ and LEARN about the business of baseball at Purple Row Academy
Eschew Obfuscation!
I'm mad at him for shaving his beard.
He can disagree with me all he wants.
"Ninety feet between a hot dog and my mouth is too far" - Maria M (SDCAT09 is awesome for coming up with this fake quote for me!)
Super Overlady Of the Ubaldo Lovers Club.
Proud Member of the PR gynocracy.
That means I need to edit my sig.
Seth Smith's beard looks on in anticipation.
Yankee Haters Encouragement Group Member #π
It's a beautiful day for a homerun.
"Ninety feet between a hot dog and my mouth is too far" - Maria M (SDCAT09 is awesome for coming up with this fake quote for me!)
Super Overlady Of the Ubaldo Lovers Club.
Proud Member of the PR gynocracy.
even a triple would do
And that one is low and outside, Eldred takes it for ball four.
by frightened inmate #2 on Jul 23, 2010 9:02 AM MDT up reply actions
(or is it "OK"?)
And that one is low and outside, Eldred takes it for ball four.
by frightened inmate #2 on Jul 23, 2010 9:02 AM MDT up reply actions
it is okay.
"Ninety feet between a hot dog and my mouth is too far" - Maria M (SDCAT09 is awesome for coming up with this fake quote for me!)
Super Overlady Of the Ubaldo Lovers Club.
Proud Member of the PR gynocracy.
we're gonna cheer
and boo
"Ninety feet between a hot dog and my mouth is too far" - Maria M (SDCAT09 is awesome for coming up with this fake quote for me!)
Super Overlady Of the Ubaldo Lovers Club.
Proud Member of the PR gynocracy.
and raise a hullaballoo
And that one is low and outside, Eldred takes it for ball four.
by frightened inmate #2 on Jul 23, 2010 9:07 AM MDT up reply actions
AT THE BALLGAME TODAY!
"Ninety feet between a hot dog and my mouth is too far" - Maria M (SDCAT09 is awesome for coming up with this fake quote for me!)
Super Overlady Of the Ubaldo Lovers Club.
Proud Member of the PR gynocracy.
Since we haven't pulled the ropes back for the After Hours Club...
I’m going to go find some LOLCOFFEE.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
Thats what I forgot.
The bookstore doesn’t open til 9, that’s where coffe is 1.50 a botltle, And I’m at my presentation now, but I don’t present till a while.
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 9:12 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
bottle of coffee?
"Ninety feet between a hot dog and my mouth is too far" - Maria M (SDCAT09 is awesome for coming up with this fake quote for me!)
Super Overlady Of the Ubaldo Lovers Club.
Proud Member of the PR gynocracy.
yup
Bottles frappicchinos
I could tell you about it more…on the other side.
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 9:15 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
DO NOT STEREOTYPE ME!
I love real coffee, but the bottled coffee is cheap and cold!
Director of Rockaholic Affairs and Supreme Supplier of the Ubaldo Lovers Club
This is R year!
by prettyinpurple on Jul 23, 2010 9:28 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
I woke up this morning thinking
I’m not going to go to work I’m randomly going to drive to philly and go see the Rockies. I can go tonight and then see Ubaldo tomorrow great! I blew some belt on my car about 6 miles from my home.
do you believe in signs?
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
yeah but this is a sign telling me that
someone would have beaten me up at the game or something. The Rockies are still going to do well in this series. The philies seem to pound Hr’s everytime I watch them live so it’s good I’m not going.
BTW, Pebble Report is posted...finally
I’ve been of the opinion that Nelson should be at the MLB level instead of Herrera, and he is doing nothing at AAA to disabuse me of that notion (though Herrera has been excellent in his own right). It’s just that Nelson has more SLG and a higher probability of sustaining good long-term results than does Herrera.
The writer formerly known as Jabberwocky
READ and LEARN about the business of baseball at Purple Row Academy
Eschew Obfuscation!
And next year, Nelson will probably be our starting 2B, going into ST....
….with Herrera filling the super-sub role…
I’d be okay with this.
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
What are your thoughts on Nelson
being able to stay healthy? I also worry about Nelson adjusting to mlb pitching. I think for a week or two he would be on fire, which would be great, but eventually pitchers are going to figure out how to pitch to him and I don’t think he will adjust well.
Well, the same can arguably be said about just about any player who hasn't spent much time in the bigs
I don’t think anyone’s projecting an all-star career for Nelson, but there’s no specific talent reason at this point to not think he won’t be a reasonably productive ML 2nd baseman.
As for health, a lot of his injuries have been of the fluky kind, so who knows. Nice to have someone as capable as Herrera to backfill with, tho.
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
Cause Barmes hasn't been figured out?
He only hits mistakes at this point. Nelson/Herrera might be better option at this point since Nelson can play 3rd also.
Mistakes....
Or that inside ball he likes. But he’s been pretty FAIL with that inside ball lately too.
But he has been an awesome fill-in at SS for Tulo. There is no doubt about that one.
Oh, this isn't about beating up on Barmes at all
But given his current salary, being due for a raise, etc., and quite likely past his peak, etc., I really don’t see where Nelson doesn’t become our lead candidate next year, and Barmes probably non-tendered.
That is, unless Nelson is packaged into a trade this year for deadline help.
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
I don't either.
Nelson looked decent in his few games up this season. I wouldn’t mind seeing him again.
Herrera has proven himself to be a reliable 2B, possibly utility guy. He’s got a great glove, too bad about that one horrible error the other day, but he’s made some great plays that make up for it.
those types of errors happen to everyone eventually. I'm not concerned with it.
I really think he’s gotten a chance to settle in and showcase what he can do without fearing just being a bandaid until someone comes back.
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
Yeah they do.
It’s just unfortunate that it probably cost us that game. One error out of how many chances and great defensive plays? Yeah, it happens and it doesn’t worry me either.
Nelson shows a LOT of offensive potential with a glove that plays well at SS/2B/3B...
As was just mentioned, Nelson’s injuries seem to be flukes more than anything, but that is the single biggest caveat about him as a prospect.
When he has been healthy, Nelson has consistently been great. This year, he’s been fantastic (OPS of .990).
The writer formerly known as Jabberwocky
READ and LEARN about the business of baseball at Purple Row Academy
Eschew Obfuscation!
It isn't a knock on Barmy
But paying a player like that 2.5-3mil when equal/better players are available for 500k-1mil. it becomes business.
And Barmes can find work.
I’m sure there is a team out there who could use a glove like his at 2B. And a change of scenery may do him good. He’s a great guy to have in the clubhouse too.
I agree with you
I’m completely for this and I think Nelson is a better option then Johnny. I’m just skeptical of his actual potential. Last winter I read a lot of arguments that Nelson should be given a chance at 2nd over signing a good free agent like Lopez or Cabrera. I think next year the best move would be to prepare Nelson for the role of starting 2b over signing a mid level free agent.
sorry
but I’m not sure he will be a huge improvement offensively over Barmes
If he was hitting
40 points lower with fewer HR and Doubles in CS I would agree but he has performed really well in his first full season at AAA and I think he needs to be looked at as a possibility. That and his glove is solid and he came up as a SS so his arm is not in question.
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
I'm really looking forward to a big weekend vs. the Phillies. We seem to play to the level of our competition.
and we hold our own vs. the better pitchers in the league.
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
AGREE. I really think we are going to play 1 excellent game that we'll win.
I really think we are going to play one excellent game that we’ll win, one excellent game we will lose and one blowout in our favor.
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
Johnathan Herrera : DINGERZ 2.0
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
and the fourth game???
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
doh...we'll lose
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
Johnathan Herrera : DINGERZ 2.0
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
I thought it was 3 games?
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
Johnathan Herrera : DINGERZ 2.0
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
hmm yay...I'm thinking a blowout loss ....so we split the series....
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
Johnathan Herrera : DINGERZ 2.0
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Okay....I sure hope you're right!
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
Johnathan Herrera : DINGERZ 2.0
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Actually....
If we end up 5-6 on the trip somehow, I’d be fine with that after such a horrible start.
5-6 on this series after the start would be fantastic
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 10:09 AM MDT up reply actions
If we had started better I would have hoped for at least 6-5.
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 10:18 AM MDT up reply actions
True.
But it wouldn’t have been such a disappointing outcome than the possible one now.
We’ve really dropped some opportunity with SD losing.
I'm just glad we haven't lost any more ground
agains the Pads
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
2-5 and lose a game and a half. I'll take it
3-1 against Philly. 3 games back and i will do backflips
I thought we were 5 games back going into Florida?
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
I thought we were 5 games back going into Florida?
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Did you all see these fantastic rants from the O's?
http://baltimore.orioles.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=10175519
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
Johnathan Herrera : DINGERZ 2.0
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
well, he was out
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
Hey I think they were wholly justified. I loved it
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
That's awesome
Oh, and any talk about the O’s and umpires is a good reason to post this video
Get well soon Tulo. The Rockies need you.
Yankee Haters Encouragement Group Member #1
by RhodeIslandRoxfan on Jul 23, 2010 12:09 PM MDT up reply actions
You know what that looks like? Three guys who care
in the middle of a hopeless season, in a 5-0 game. Probably frustration coming out, but still, you have to care to be frustrated.
Would Helton and Tracy get tossed out in the same situation? Does this somehow tie in to the poll question? Hell, I don’t know, but it’s interesting.
I’m not saying the Rockies don’t care at all, but there are degrees of it. I’d like to see just a little more passion come out sometimes. Not wild-hacking impatience passion, but the kind of professional passion that causes you to focus, prepare, and execute. Tonight would be a good start.
"You can't sit on a lead and run a few plays into the line and just kill the clock. You've got to throw the ball over the plate and give the other man his chance. That's why baseball is the greatest game of them all." ~Earl Weaver
Yankee Haters Encouragement Group Member #3
by RoarFrom112 on Jul 23, 2010 12:36 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Absolutely agreed and rec'd.
That’s one of MY main concerns with this team, lack of passion. Jim Tracy doesn’t have that fire which disturbs me and when our leader goes down with an injury, all of a sudden we look like a lifeless ballclub when we’re losing.
When I see players get mad and angry about striking out or something of the sort, my mouth comes up a little in a smile because I truly like to see the Rox show some passion.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 12:43 PM MDT up reply actions
I suppose passive passion exists though
If not, we wouldn’t have succeeded when Tulo got hurt. You can’t ignore the very solid passionate homestand and say we got lifeless when we lost. Actually, they seemed to have fought pretty darn hard in some of those losses.
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 2:04 PM MDT up reply actions
I suppose I can see that point
But they fought hard in two one-run walk-off losses and brutally bludgeoned them Tuesday. I can’t look at that series and say they lacked heart.
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 2:22 PM MDT up reply actions
They're the only things keeping us from a winning trip, thus far
Well, also the not scoring on the Reds with bases loaded, no out, but I digress….
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
Yeah, hope so
I didn’t say that as “zomg Rox are chokerz”…more like…well, a simple break or two, and this trip is looking a hell of a lot different.
I’d really like to see us take three games, but at this point, even 2-2 this weekend…well, our work will be cut out for us, but we’ve been in this spot before.
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
I was thinking the same thing.
I thought maybe Tracy getting tossed would fire them up.
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Firing the Phillies hitting coach
because they are 6th in runs doesn’t sound like a great idea. Especially since they have missed Rollins most of the year and when he came back Utley went down. You can’t count that offense out but when two of your top players are missing the offense might struggle (or it might just drop off a bit, see: Rockies, Colorado)
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
No, we must fire Don Baylor now...(sarcasm)
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
I thought this might be an interesting question to pose,
and I had the idea after reading Kreiger’s article, but who do you think strikes out the most per PA, and who the least? Of course try to answer this without actually looking up the numbers. I could have guessed the order of things a little, but some of the guys I didn’t foresee. I used the top 14 guys in PA’s this year.
"Whenever I see an old lady slip and fall on a wet sidewalk, my first instinct is to laugh. But then I think, what if I was an ant, and she fell on me. Then it wouldn't seem quite so funny."
Jack Handy quote
Stewie for the most
Herrera and Giambi least
Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic ~ Robert S. Wieder
Stewie for the most, Herrera for the least on a percentage of PAs
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 10:15 AM MDT up reply actions
I guess I should give the answer
but the most K’s/PA went to Olivo, Stew was #2, but I found it interesting. The least K’s/PA is actually Mora, and #2 would be Seth, Herrera is 3rd. I didn’t really see that coming either, but I was out to prove Herrera is not the contact machine that all the writers seem to think he is, and I was mostly wrong, he does make good contact, but kind of correct too, in that he is not #1 or #2 on the team. Tulo is also very close to Herrera, Tulo K’s every 6.6 PA’s and Herrera every 7 PA’s. BTW, interesting tid bit, Nelson is actually better in AAA at every 7.06 PA’s. However, Herrera’s rate this year in AAA was every 7.96 PA’s.
Either way, both Nelson and Herrera have done well at avoiding the K, but looking at those rates I would take the guy w/ better pop overall. Nelson also has the better OBP in AAA than Herrera did at .403 vs .359. So he also is getting on base at a better clip, not just hitting for more power.
I know I need to stop complaining about Herrera, he has been great, but look at it this way, everytime I do he hits an XBH, so maybe its good luck.
"Whenever I see an old lady slip and fall on a wet sidewalk, my first instinct is to laugh. But then I think, what if I was an ant, and she fell on me. Then it wouldn't seem quite so funny."
Jack Handy quote
Of course it's Mora, the guy only has like 20 Ks all season.
That’s why I’m so high on MelMo, he DOESN’T strike out. We need his bat in the lineup a little more – he puts the ball in play and won’t strike out in high leverage situations (runner on 3rd, less than two outs).
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 12:45 PM MDT up reply actions
I enjoyed the Fangraphs article on the ASG
You know something bizarre happens when fans vote, so it’s interesting to he it objectified somewhat.
Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic ~ Robert S. Wieder
To the local independent centrist neutral moderate subjective-obsessed relativist
You too? What a coincidence.
Great comments/column. Thanks for writing.
More fun from an O's game
Do you approve of the police work in this case?
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/Security-shrugs-as-O-s-mope-runs-laps-around-Cam?urn=mlb-257721
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
I like how the umpire
was the one to tell him to stop
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
I'm thinking if this game had been in Philly, the ump might have tased him.
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
If the Phillies get either Oswalt or Haren
with a package centered around Happ or Kendrick, I will barf.
We could use Haren or Oswalt
But I think Oswalt wants too much. I don’t know about Haren. But Haren knows how to pitch in the NL West, which is good.
I don't think there's any way on God's green earth it will happen, but I would love to have Dan Haren on our team.
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 10:47 AM MDT up reply actions
Yeah it's kind of a pipe dream.
Our pitching has just been so inconsistent lately, it’s bothersome. Our rotation could be one of the best in the league, but for the inconsistencies. They all have the ability to perform, they just aren’t.
Also...
I read somewhere yesterday (around the nation somewheres), that we’re viewed as flush with starting pitchers. I mean, we’re kinda this and that, because we watch our rotation every day and criticize their every flaw. The reality is, we have 6 starting caliber pitchers, and if the rest of the country is seeing, our FO probably does too.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
Yeah...
I think our biggest things is that the pitchers who should be doing better haven’t been, and the ones who struggled have stepped up lately, but it’s easier for us to criticize them because we know the history.
plus as in other industries, someone from a different team/company seems more "exotic".
I guess that’s because you don’t know all their history.
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 10:57 AM MDT up reply actions
How much money did they really save by not re-signing Cliff Lee?
Seems like a wash to me
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Yeah
clearly trading Lee was stupid since they are now looking for pitching again
But they traded him for Halladay
They’d be looking for pitching anyway
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 10:45 AM MDT up reply actions
I agree...
their offense has been disappointing considering the rep.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
Seems like the could have figured a way to keep Lee
and go after Halladay too
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Possibly
They would have had to give up their farm though. Smoak is s big time prospect – they almost assuredly would have had to give up Donald Brown plus. It wouldn’t have been a bad idea, since their window is definitely now, but they didn’t want to mortgage their farm
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 11:16 AM MDT up reply actions
no they didn't
oh my god no they didn’t
by Andrew Martin on Jul 23, 2010 3:29 PM MDT up reply actions
they could've had Lee and Halladay at the same time
by Andrew Martin on Jul 23, 2010 3:30 PM MDT up reply actions
I know they COULD have
but they didn’t.
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 3:39 PM MDT up reply actions
but they didn't trade lee for halladay, that's a fallacy
it was 2 separate trades, nobody changed hands between Seattle and Toronto
by Andrew Martin on Jul 23, 2010 4:06 PM MDT up reply actions
But would one happen without the other?
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 24, 2010 9:45 PM MDT up reply actions
I just posted a fanshot from bleacher report talking about potential trades for these two.
Snakes want a ton…two ML starters and bullpen help. I wonder if we would get to pick the starters???
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 11:09 AM MDT up reply actions
"Us" being the Rowbots
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 11:14 AM MDT up reply actions
make that "we" being the Rowbots....
Sheesh, I’m being a bit more of an idiot this morning than normal.
Baseball statistics are like a girl in a bikini. They show a lot, but not everything. ~Toby Harrah, 1983
by pedalpusher on Jul 23, 2010 11:16 AM MDT up reply actions
Greg Smith, Esmil Rogers, Manuel Corpas
Those are my choices
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 11:16 AM MDT up reply actions
I know :(
Especially since they already traded Greg Smith for Haren.
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 11:18 AM MDT up reply actions
Probably not
At least, not without moving some major pieces. I’m kind of torn about Haren. I want him, but I also want a lefty in the rotation next year also. I don’t see that happening with Haren. We would most likely have Jimenez, Haren, Hammel, Chacin, and Cook. Prospect wise, I wouldn’t mind it, since we have a deep enough system, and look to be adding some major picks next year.
Dayton Moore is predictable/awesome
#Royals like Francoeur. …$5M salary ….potential non-tender
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 11:32 AM MDT reply actions
so
impressive and not at the same time
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
So it seems to me
that the general consensus around here is that DLR walks next year, correct? I’d love to hear thoughts as to why his return is so improbable.
Cooler than a polar bear's toenails...
I think there is a good chance he stays
The Rox will probably need a lefty for the rotation, as I don’t see Francis’s option being picked up, and we will have some cash freed up without Francis and Hawpe. So, yes, I can see him beign re-signed.
It's not improbable, just probably not the best course of action
A lefty with power stuff and good success is a prime candidate to get a very good contract elsewhere. He don’t need to get into a bidding war for him with our rotation depth, especially when we will likely get a 1st round and sandwich pick back as compensation. It’s not the impracticality of bringing him back, but just the smarter allocation of resources.
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 11:41 AM MDT up reply actions
Here’s my theory for the whole ‘road struggles’ thing. I remember the first time I, a lifelong Coloradan, visited the Midwest. The humidity just chokes you. You start sweating the moment you step outside and get fatigued easily. My dad makes a lot of business trips to Florida and comes back completely sapped of energy. My brother’s playing summer ball in a Florida league right now and says you can’t hardly move it’s so damn hot and humid.
As much of a home field advantage we might claim when teams come to play us in zero humidity, I think having to go play in 141 percent humidity in July and August is equally, if not more so, a detrimental factor.
"You spend a good piece of your life gripping a baseball and in the end it turns out that it was the other way around the whole time." - Jim Bouton
You may have something there.
Everytime I’ve been east in the summer I’ve had no energy to do anything.
LoDo Magic, The Ghost of Tulo's Mullet or Seth Smith's beard - call it what you will but it is neither unimpressive or unsustainable!
by DAWNMARIE01 on Jul 23, 2010 12:39 PM MDT up reply actions
I have lived in Cleveland
for about two years and the humidity is better here than other places, but I can confirm everything you just said the dog days of summer here are horrible.
Not sure that's entirely logical
Sure you have to labor under heavier (humid) air east of the Mississippi, but at the same time, when at sea level, you have 25% more oxygen available compared to one-mile altitude. Logically that will improve physical performance… there’s a reason the U.S. Olympic center is in Colorado Springs. You train at altitude, your body will be better conditioned and enjoy greater endurance. So the dual factors— high humidity vs. high oxygen— should be a wash at worst.
(Of course, I speak as a native Georgian, first 25 years there and last 8 in Colorado).
Also, some of the players say they like the heat
because it allows them to loosen up more easily.
Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic ~ Robert S. Wieder
USA Today: ESPN getting defensive with baseball stats
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/hiestand-tv/2010-07-22-espn-defensive-baseball-stats_N.htm
Article on new approach being used by ESPN to gather and compile defensive stats.
Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic ~ Robert S. Wieder
They did not mention the part
where put outs by Yankees and Red Sawx players are weighted x 1000….
Bazinga!
by Junction Rox on Jul 23, 2010 12:56 PM MDT up reply actions
Mike McCoy was recalled by the Jays
Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic ~ Robert S. Wieder
Fire Ronn Svetich!
Kidding. I really have very little idea about what the guy does or how well he does it.
But seriously, I stlll think the problems with this team are mostly mental. Too many of the players get on streaks too easily, the coaches for some reason can’t get consistency. When a critical mass of players get hot at the same time, the team’s unbeatable. When a critical mass got cold at the same time earlier in the season, the team couldn’t win to their potential except when Ubaldo (who was himself on an incredible hot streak) was pitching.
What’s the solution? To me it looks like Dan O’dowd has done a fantastic job of building a team with talent and depth with limited resources. He’s not perfect, but he’s far better than most. I do not fault him, the ownership, the scouting, or the front office in any way.
Jim Tracy has tried juggling the lineup, not juggling the lineup, sending players to AAA, preaching aggression, preaching patience, etc, etc. Maybe he should try circling 64 on a lineup card. Anyhow, he’s gotten more success than anyone else has with this team, so I don’t see how anyone can seriously blame him.
Individual players? Which one? Looks like a team-wide thing to me.
Coaching staff? Maybe, but I don’t have enough insight into the coaches to be able to point fingers. From everything I hear, Baylor and especially Apodaca are tremendously good at what they do. I’m not sure the other coaches have enough influence to matter much on this scale. Maybe they should replace Svetich…
One thing I notice — everytime a major leader on the team goes down, the team responds with a winning streak. Hurdle getting fired last year, DLR getting injured, Tulo getting injured, Helton getting injured. Is this just coincidence or is there more to it?
"You can't sit on a lead and run a few plays into the line and just kill the clock. You've got to throw the ball over the plate and give the other man his chance. That's why baseball is the greatest game of them all." ~Earl Weaver
Yankee Haters Encouragement Group Member #3
Oh and btw Wolf.
Lately, Renck has been tweeting that Herrera DOES in fact have one option remaining. Renck’s source is someone from the Rockies FO or whatever, so we’re fine with that. The real question is if Jonny will be sent down. I highly doubt that one.
I think the question becomes
not who is sent down but who is removed from the 40-man roster when Buchholz is taken off the 60-Day DL. This could be an infielder such as Herrera or Eldred or it could be a pitcher. I don’t know what pitcher it would be though.
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
Yes, and that's why the thinking is wait until Helton can come off to do that one
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
He's been saying all along that Herrera has an option left
Wolf just can’t figure out why
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 2:05 PM MDT up reply actions
No, it's the opposite.
One option is what I’ve said he’s had all along.
PROJECT LIBRA: Depth / Transactions
by Greg Stanwood on Jul 23, 2010 2:37 PM MDT up reply actions
Meaning I was right the whole time.
:D
PROJECT LIBRA: Depth / Transactions
by Greg Stanwood on Jul 23, 2010 2:38 PM MDT up reply actions
My bad
I’m cloudy today. you’re right
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 2:56 PM MDT up reply actions
From Jayson Stark
Astros asking one big-leaguer, 2 high-end prospects & a second-tier prospect for Oswalt
The Colorado Rockies aren't a team, they're an armada.
Isn't that more than what Seattle got for Lee?
Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic ~ Robert S. Wieder
I'm going to go with Brad Eldred, Mike Paulk, Matt Miller and Warren Schaeffer
You can’t get more high end than AAA, and Schaeffer is better than “second-tier” because he was in AAA to start the year.
I’m losing my mind with this Oswalt junk.
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 2:07 PM MDT up reply actions
toss in Rincon too
he was in the ML earlier this year, and most of the last 6 years too
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
In all seriousness though
do they want position players or pitchers? I haven’t heard either way.
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
Indeed
Krieger in this morning’s article:
Houston’s Roy Oswalt has a no-trade clause and won’t waive it for Colorado.
Get your purple on.
Insert Texas v Colorado joke here
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
The only joke is the effort the Buffs put up in the Big 12 championship
70 points, woot.
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
Plus I hadn't realized this
but Rockies pitching is still best in the NL by WAR, and its a pretty big margin.
Is there a bigger disappointing flameout prospect this year than Jordan Schafer of the Braves?
He took the Dex leap from AA to be Atlanta’s starting CF last year, struggled, was sent to AAA and hasn’t returned. Now it looks like his big league career might be best known to some for this picture:
He got demoted from AAA to AA today after hitting just .199/.242/.251 in over 200 PA in AAA. Yikes.
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 2:24 PM MDT reply actions
wow
that really sucks, not only for Schafer but for the Braves. Sure Heyward is doing really well but if Jordan had done something he might have been a decent trade chip at some point.
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
and I like the picture
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
good timing
Schafer was coming to the plate during a game last year and was thrown out. CDI held on to the ball after a pretty gnarly collision.
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
Today's lineup
Fowler
Herrera
Cargo
Giambino
Mora (2B)
Smif
Stewie
Olivo
Cook
Watching the purple row from high atop the big brown monolith on California Ave
like the line up
except defensively the infield is weakened in 3 positions…hopefully they hit like crazy tonight
Get better Tulo....time to rally around each other and hang in there until our Mr. everything returns
Troy Tulowitzki: "When people think of the Rockies, I want them to think of a winning organization."
by TuLoRocks2008 on Jul 23, 2010 2:35 PM MDT up reply actions
1b 2b ss
1b probably the least of them…because too small of a sample size to tell if anybody is better than Giambino defensively at 1B
Get better Tulo....time to rally around each other and hang in there until our Mr. everything returns
Troy Tulowitzki: "When people think of the Rockies, I want them to think of a winning organization."
by TuLoRocks2008 on Jul 23, 2010 2:38 PM MDT up reply actions
and i can deal with his defense being some what weak
he has great numbers against Halladay and is starting to hit better
Get better Tulo....time to rally around each other and hang in there until our Mr. everything returns
Troy Tulowitzki: "When people think of the Rockies, I want them to think of a winning organization."
by TuLoRocks2008 on Jul 23, 2010 2:39 PM MDT up reply actions
Besides Helton obviously.
I think Herrera will do fine at SS.
Mora has not done so well at 2B, but it’s been a while.
yea obviously Herrera's better position is 2nd
but he isn’t far off from Barmey at short i think he will do fine as well
Get better Tulo....time to rally around each other and hang in there until our Mr. everything returns
Troy Tulowitzki: "When people think of the Rockies, I want them to think of a winning organization."
by TuLoRocks2008 on Jul 23, 2010 2:41 PM MDT up reply actions
same...since i am going to the game tomorrow
hopefully see about the same lineup as well
Get better Tulo....time to rally around each other and hang in there until our Mr. everything returns
Troy Tulowitzki: "When people think of the Rockies, I want them to think of a winning organization."
by TuLoRocks2008 on Jul 23, 2010 2:45 PM MDT up reply actions
Mora absolutely needed to be in the lineup.
I would prefer third, but that doesn’t work if you want Stew in there, too. So overall, with the opposing pitcher factored in, I think this is the best option.
But I think they HAD to get Barmie a day off
all the heat and humidity on this trip is going to have to mean days off for everybody. Right now, the only way to do that is to put Mora (or Stewie, I guess) at second. Not much way to avoid it, unless you carry 3 true middle infielders, which is exactly what I’d like to see when Tulo returns.
Bazinga!
by Junction Rox on Jul 23, 2010 2:53 PM MDT up reply actions
I think this is the main point
Barmes has been used a lot lately and a day off against one of the best pitchers in the game probably won’t hurt. I might expect to see him as a late game defensive replacement if the Rockies are ahead and the game is close.
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
But......this just makes me afraid.
Now Tracy has Eldred AND Barmes to use as a PH later in the game……scary scary scary.
More interesting
and more exciting to anticipate
Bazinga!
by Junction Rox on Jul 23, 2010 3:28 PM MDT up reply actions
Holy crap.
It’s almost 2 and I haven’t eaten lunch yet! How did that happen!
Oh, umm, topic. Go Rockies!
Was actually doing work for a change.
I just literally did not notice the time between about 11:45 and 1:45.
Craig Baker's back on the DL.
PROJECT LIBRA: Depth / Transactions
by Greg Stanwood on Jul 23, 2010 3:10 PM MDT up reply actions
We also released minor leaguers David Dinatale and Steve Junker.
PROJECT LIBRA: Depth / Transactions
by Greg Stanwood on Jul 23, 2010 3:35 PM MDT up reply actions
Junker was really really struggling
and Dinatale just wasn’t progressing in Casper. With younger options coming through, neither of these were surprising
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 3:38 PM MDT up reply actions
Agreed, though we didn't need the roster room for other players at this point.
PROJECT LIBRA: Depth / Transactions
by Greg Stanwood on Jul 23, 2010 3:41 PM MDT up reply actions
I suppose they could have been paid to sit on the bench, yes
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein
by Andrew T. Fisher on Jul 23, 2010 3:42 PM MDT up reply actions
Yeah, money saving makes sense.
It’s hard to run out of roster room at Casper, since they have 40 slots (33 filled right now)
PROJECT LIBRA: Depth / Transactions
by Greg Stanwood on Jul 23, 2010 3:45 PM MDT up reply actions
Wow
It’s 98 in Philly right now with a heat index of 109. It’s a good thing this wasn’t a day game.
Get well soon Tulo. The Rockies need you.
Yankee Haters Encouragement Group Member #1
by RhodeIslandRoxfan on Jul 23, 2010 3:56 PM MDT reply actions
Central California
105 regularly in the summer.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:10 PM MDT up reply actions
Are you serious?
Corcoran. Dead smack in the middle of the Valley.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:12 PM MDT up reply actions
Very tiny town, directly in between Bakersfield and Fresno
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:13 PM MDT up reply actions
Holy crapppp..
That’s like 30 minutes away! Visalia is a little closer, that’s really cool man.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:14 PM MDT up reply actions
Yeah I have been to Corcoran a time or two.
Grandparents were cotton farmers.
So I know just what the summers are like haha. They suck. Moved out here in 2006.
How do you like it over there?
Yes, this summer hasn’t been too bad. The past month has been 100+ but the past week it’s been 98-99.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:16 PM MDT up reply actions
Can you really tell the 2 to 3 degree difference?
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Absolutely
And when I say 100+ I mean it’s 103-107. It’s bad.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:18 PM MDT up reply actions
ahhh a 10 degree difference I can understand
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Something like that
I really hope the bad part of the heat is gone.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:21 PM MDT up reply actions
Bad thing about the valley....
Is it only cools off to like 90-85 at night. At least when it gets hot here, it still is 60-70 at night.
Yeah no kidding.
About a week ago, at like 10pm it was still 96 degrees. Crazy ridiculous
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:24 PM MDT up reply actions
I love it here.
The only thing I miss in CA is friends/family and the Sierras.
The July before I left was I swear like 110 every day.
Hasn't gotten there yet, thank goodness.
How old are you? If you don’t mind me asking
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:19 PM MDT up reply actions
Ah I'm plenty younger.
Isn’t the summer in Denver pretty damn hot though?
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:22 PM MDT up reply actions
96 high today.
91 right now. I’m in Fort Collins though, right by the foothills so we can be a bit cooler at times than Denver.
Well I'm going to be moving from the Valley in a few months
Starting college at UCLA. Bad thing is I’m still going to be back here for the summers haha
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:24 PM MDT up reply actions
Mehhh...
LA is much cooler than it is here. But yeah I just visited LA a few weeks ago (when the Rockies went on that ridiculous homestand actually) and wasn’t a big fan.
Hope it works out though!
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:27 PM MDT up reply actions
Haha that's a good question..
Lemme set the scene. I grew up in a town with zero Rockies fans. None whatsoever. When I was very little and got into baseball (when I was about 5) i started watching ESPN and all that and I was intrigued with the Purple Team.. (that’s how I first recognized them and deemed them different than every other team, which I liked). When I got older I paid more and more attention to baseball and just always liked the Rockies.. They weren’t that good but I didn’t care.. They grew on me as the underdog, purple team.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:33 PM MDT up reply actions
Did you ever
make it to an Oaks’ game while they were still affiliated with the Rockies?
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
or even a Nuts'
game in Visaila in the recent years?
There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit. ~Al Gallagher, 1971
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
JFK
Yes i did!
I’ve only been to two pro baseball games, Visalia Oaks and Fresno Grizzlies.
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:35 PM MDT up reply actions
When are you going to see the Rockies and Giants?
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
Ahh, you should
add the countdown to your sig line, err as your sig line:)
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
No I never did.
I was (sorta still am) an A’s fan. Works out since we don’t play them that much. Was pretty hard to see the Rockies play ever in CA.
I like the A's too
Right behind the Rangers
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:36 PM MDT up reply actions
It was hard to be an A's fan.
Angels beat them so many times…even when the A’s did well the Angels would do something nuts like get 99 wins.
It sucks to watch them on TV too.
Stadium is just so dead
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:41 PM MDT up reply actions
They don't call it the
Oakland Mausoleum for nothing!
Ubaldo Jimenez: He's still gonna win the CY
Brad Hawpe: Fix that swing!
Todd and Tulo: Ready to Rox and roll
QPU Member #4, NYYHEG Member #4, Proud Member PR Gynocracy
And I totally want to move to Denver
For obvious reasons
by CentralCaliRox on Jul 23, 2010 4:10 PM MDT up reply actions
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