Today's 1:05PM matchup features Blue Jay lefty Ted Lilly vs. coulda/woulda/shouldabeen Blue Jay but now a Red Sock Matt Clement.
Pick 'em: Any homerun predictions before the game starts?
Pick 'em: Any homerun predictions before the game starts?
One... I think this will be Myers's day to open his HR account.
Hinske hits 2 today for the first multi-homer game of the season!
I just heard that Meyers will be making his first start catching this season while Lilly makes his first start. Is that wise...having both of them making their season debuts at the same time? I'd be more comfortable with Zaun back there today and maybe have Meyers catch the next game. If both Lilly and Meyers are rusty it could make for a long day.
I just heard that Meyers will be making his first start catching this season while Lilly makes his first start. Is that wise...having both of them making their season debuts at the same time? I'd be more comfortable with Zaun back there today and maybe have Meyers catch the next game. If both Lilly and Meyers are rusty it could make for a long day.
If the first inning was anything to go by, reports that Lily had no command were wrong. 11 pitches, 8 strikes, including dropping the nice curveball in a couple of times.
Keep it up, Ted!
Keep it up, Ted!
Clement looked pretty nasty in the first. A little wayward to Cat obviously, but neither Hudson nor Wells had a chance on that breaking ball. Perhaps a pitchers duel?
Andrew K, I don't know about the control issues. Lilly was OK in the second inning, but EVERYTHING was up in the zone, which we all know if a bad thing when you're playing at the Dome....I mean Rogers Centre.
Yes, I agree about the 2nd inning. Not so promising. It looked like a couple of curves came out of the hand completely wrong, and flew way high, and the fastballs can't all have been meant to be letter-high.
I really hope this isn't going to be a pitchers duel, because Lily is the likelier to make a mistake. Clement does look good at the moment.
I really hope this isn't going to be a pitchers duel, because Lily is the likelier to make a mistake. Clement does look good at the moment.
Indeed. With runners at the corners and 1 out, all of Lilly's pitches to Jay Payton were up in the zone. That just makes no sense in that situation. You want to get the ball down and get a DP ball. You leave it up and you're asking for a sac fly.
I don't know why I was spelling Lilly's name incorrectly. Brain failure. Or the fact that I was doing some gardening, earlier.
Anyone know why Koskie is DHing? It's a little strange to see Hillenbrand playing third. Maybe Koskie's knees are creaking.
Expect Koskie to be spelled regularly out there, with this versatile lineup.
I'm surprised by how sharp Lilly looks today.
He's got zip, movement, and location today...although his curve isn't all there.
He's got zip, movement, and location today...although his curve isn't all there.
"With runners at the corners and 1 out, all of Lilly's pitches to Jay Payton were up in the zone. That just makes no sense in that situation. You want to get the ball down and get a DP ball. You leave it up and you're asking for a sac fly."
That's a little nitpicky, isn't it?
First of all, Lilly is a flyball pitcher - he gets a lot of guys to strike out or pop up with pitches high in the zone. Groundballs can sneak through for singles so there is a downside to going for the GIDP.
And don't you think Payton is aware that it's a GIDP situation? Might he not be looking for the sweeping curveball in (that's the only pitch Lilly gets groundballs off), especially since he swung through two high fastballs the last two pitches (figuring Lilly is setting him up for the beraking ball)?
This early in the game: I'd be concerned with getting outs period, and throw the pitch I think has the best chance of doing that.
That's a little nitpicky, isn't it?
First of all, Lilly is a flyball pitcher - he gets a lot of guys to strike out or pop up with pitches high in the zone. Groundballs can sneak through for singles so there is a downside to going for the GIDP.
And don't you think Payton is aware that it's a GIDP situation? Might he not be looking for the sweeping curveball in (that's the only pitch Lilly gets groundballs off), especially since he swung through two high fastballs the last two pitches (figuring Lilly is setting him up for the beraking ball)?
This early in the game: I'd be concerned with getting outs period, and throw the pitch I think has the best chance of doing that.
Lilly pitches up in the zone - that's why he gets so many flyballs and pop ups. When he's on he's getting lazy flies, pop up and strikeouts (by changing speeds), mixed in with the occasional curveball diving down.
That's true, and a good point Robert. But after Lilly got two strikes, I was hoping he's throw the curve and try to get Payton to roll over it. Instead he throw one up to the same spot and it was hit for the sac fly.
Not a big deal, but a run's a run.
Not a big deal, but a run's a run.
Skills, Gibby said on the pre-game show that Hillenbrand would be giving Koskie a day off the field every once in awhile. Koskie's not injured, but an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
It's a good idea.
It's a good idea.
Is this game available online anywhere? It's being blocked on the Fan, and I don't get TSN.
It's definitely a good idea considering Koskie's injury history.
I'm sure that Lilly wants to throw high (also, apparently the word on Payton is that he can't reach the high fastball). He looked great in the first inning, but I don't think he's quite himself since then -- the curveball has missed more than I expected, and there were some weird throws way too high. He's just sent a changeup almost head-high, which he surely didn't mean, but thankfully Millar missed.
Still, he looks an lot better than I was expecting, given almost no spring training and those discouraging words about his last throwing session. I don't suppose he'll go much beyond the 5th inning (60+ pitches with the 4th still dragging on) but it's okay so far. I hope the bats can get a run or two.
I vote, now, for not using SS today. Let's have Walker take a couple of innings, to keep sharp, and then the usual crew for the last two.
Still, he looks an lot better than I was expecting, given almost no spring training and those discouraging words about his last throwing session. I don't suppose he'll go much beyond the 5th inning (60+ pitches with the 4th still dragging on) but it's okay so far. I hope the bats can get a run or two.
I vote, now, for not using SS today. Let's have Walker take a couple of innings, to keep sharp, and then the usual crew for the last two.
Lilly continues to impress.
I'm very surprised by this - I was sure he was going to get smacked around, and tire early.
But not only was he sharp to start, but he's only improved as ge moved past the 50-pitch mark....better location, and an improved curve in particular.
Very impressive performance by Lilly so far.
I'm very surprised by this - I was sure he was going to get smacked around, and tire early.
But not only was he sharp to start, but he's only improved as ge moved past the 50-pitch mark....better location, and an improved curve in particular.
Very impressive performance by Lilly so far.
In my opinion, Lilly has looked awesome. One thing to remember in evaluating all of our pitchers this weekend is that they are facing the best offensive team put together in a decade. They haven't hit a ball hard off Lilly yet.
I think Lilly has looked great, especially considering it's his first start in months. He really owns the Red Sox, it seems. His curveball hasn't been quite as good as it can be, but you can't argue with 6 K's through 4. Unless you're John Smoltz.
Not to break too far away from the events of this good game, but two interesting happenings elsewhere. Pavano was hit in the head by a Melvin Mora liner, and Smoltz has 14 K's through 6.
But Robert, Tabler just told us that Baltimore's offense is in fact, superior to Boston's. ;)
Gabe Gross was optioned to Syracuse (AAA) to make room for Lilly who was activated to make today's start. Any word on what move Syracuse will make (or has made) to get Gross on their roster?
Thought Ted was moving quickly enough to maybe come out for the 6th until that 10-pitch at bat to Manny. (Nice at bat by Manny, although I think that 32rd ball was a K).
But he's got to be done for sure now.
Solid effort: 5.0ip, 82pc, 6h, 1bb, 6k, 1r
But he's got to be done for sure now.
Solid effort: 5.0ip, 82pc, 6h, 1bb, 6k, 1r
If you're still looking for the game online, google 980 KRUZ. It's a Peterborough station, and it's how I'm listening to the game in the lab.
Somebody show Rod Black a stat sheet with Hillenbrand's career stats; again he said: "He didn't play much last year"
Did Black just say *again* that Hillenbrand didnt see alot of playing time last year? Someone should poke him.
Any word on what move Syracuse will make (or has made) to get Gross on their roster?
Doesn't Matos' suspension make room for Gross? Or do suspended players still count on the active roster?
Wow. Bad call by the homeplate umpire. It looks pretty obvious to me that Koskie was in there.
Wow, that was exciting. It looks like, on the replay, that Koskie was safe. A good gamble, very alert of Koskie to realise that Hinske was in a rundown.
clearly safe. better not hurt us in the end.
let's see if Walker can continue his spring success.
let's see if Walker can continue his spring success.
That one was fairly obvious even without the benefit of the replay. Merriweather blew the call.
Wow, Corie Koskie was totally safe on that bases loaded hit by Eric Hinske. This umpire has been terrible today. Shea Hillenbrand was struck out by a pitch that was never called a strike when Lilly pitched it.
Perhaps a pitchers duel?
Want a pitcher's duel? If you have TBS, NYM/ATL has a beauty ... Smoltz vs. Pedro, 1-0 Braves in the 8th. Smoltz had 14 K through 6, but I don't know where he's at right now.
And Smoltz, probably tiring, just gave up a 2-run shot to Beltran. He'd thrown over 100 coming into the inning. Yeah, he was throwing smoke but when you've just made the conversion back to starter, I don't think I'd be leaving the guy in after 105 pitches. Especially after a leadoff single.
Smoltz is out of the game, after striking out 15 through 7.1 then giving up 2 runs.
Smoltz had 15 through seven; I was watching that game on the commercials and anytime Greg Myers was batting.
He just gave up a two-run homer in the 8th and was replaced by...Tom Martin. 113 pitches, I guess Smoltz was done.
He just gave up a two-run homer in the 8th and was replaced by...Tom Martin. 113 pitches, I guess Smoltz was done.
I think Pete Walker could become a quality 2-3 inning middle reliever - something that is invaluable in modern baseball, in my opinion. Scott Shields of Anaheim is the prototype, though I think Scioscia should lengthen his stints and make them a little less frequent.
Impressive baserunning by Koskie. That play was so close you can't really take exception when it doesn't go your way. Hinske was a dead duck anyway so no reason to stay on third. It almost paid off huge.
I must have been out of the room when Rod Black was talking about Hillenbrand. But for me it sounds like he and Tabby sound pretty good together today. They were an embarassment last year.
I must have been out of the room when Rod Black was talking about Hillenbrand. But for me it sounds like he and Tabby sound pretty good together today. They were an embarassment last year.
I would just like to hear Black correct himself, say something along the lines of "Y'know I said earlier that Hillenbrand didnt play much last year, well I must have been thinking of something else, because actually etc.".
I know better, so it doesnt make much difference to me, but I feel bad for everyone out there who doesnt know better and assumes that what they hear on the broadcasts is true information.
I know better, so it doesnt make much difference to me, but I feel bad for everyone out there who doesnt know better and assumes that what they hear on the broadcasts is true information.
nifty play by Shea.
I love the versatility of this team.
I love the versatility of this team.
Well, I think it's safe to say that the Blue Jays were oh-so-close to being 6-0 to start the season.
There's something about this team, have you noticed even Richard Griffin has been chipper about the club?
There's something about this team, have you noticed even Richard Griffin has been chipper about the club?
So when do we start talking about Arnsberg's effect on the Jays' pitchers' control?
That was priority #1 when he was hired, there was evidence of it in spring training, and now we're top-3 in the league so far in fewest walks with 10 or 11, when a few teams have aready broken the 30 mark.
The fact that I noticed it all spring training, and that it's continued into the regular season, makes me start seeing a trend, not just an abberration.
That was priority #1 when he was hired, there was evidence of it in spring training, and now we're top-3 in the league so far in fewest walks with 10 or 11, when a few teams have aready broken the 30 mark.
The fact that I noticed it all spring training, and that it's continued into the regular season, makes me start seeing a trend, not just an abberration.
Keith you are right, there is something about this team. I think they will have a much better year this year than last. The veterans Koskie and Shea bring a different veteran presence than Carlos had, Doc is healthy, Hinske looks very comfortable at first and is swinging pain-free, the platoon situations allow the team to be quite versatile. If all that continues it will be an enjoyable season.
And I'm glad to see I was wrong about Lilly and Myers at the beginning of this thread. Both were ok together, particularly Lilly. Very nice initial outing.
And I'm glad to see I was wrong about Lilly and Myers at the beginning of this thread. Both were ok together, particularly Lilly. Very nice initial outing.
Well, first blown save of the year for Batista, lets see if he stays out there to pitch the 10th, or goes out in favor of someone else.
At least we didn't lose the game *yet*.
At least we didn't lose the game *yet*.
Dangit that stunk. Alright let's get one here, no extra innings guys.
At least no one can complain that any of the games have been boring so far this year.
At least no one can complain that any of the games have been boring so far this year.
I think it was Dave Neihaus, Seattle Mariners broadcaster, who calls extra innings "free baseball".
"Free baseball" up next.
The blown saves we've been used to the past years haven't had the luxury of "free baseball"; we're used a blown save meaning "game over".
Here goes...
"Free baseball" up next.
The blown saves we've been used to the past years haven't had the luxury of "free baseball"; we're used a blown save meaning "game over".
Here goes...
Batista needs an effective straight change - I can't imagine why this hasn't happened. With that change he'd become one of the best relievers in baseball; without it, everything comes in at the same speed.
some impressive hitting there by the Red Sox on a bunch of 2-strike counts.
Sparky in for "D" in the top of the 9th; he makes all the difference in the bottom half.
This team is showing some quality depth and Gibbons knows how to use it.
This team is showing some quality depth and Gibbons knows how to use it.
Excellent observation from Tabler. He noted that until this year, there was a good chance that Hudson's double would have bounced over the wall for a GRD. Not today, happily for the Jays.
Gotta love Reed's hustle on those last two plays. First to beat the botched throw by Bellhorn to 1B, and then to chug all the way home on the hit by O-Dog. Im not sure Cat would have made either of those.
This isn't second-guessing, because I was saying it before the inning started, but the Red Sox should have brought in Foulke. What a terrible move. After Batista blew it, I was hoping that Boston would be stupid enough to leave Timlin in for the ninth. And I was rewarded with a walk-off hustle!
But of course -- The Closer must only come in when it is a Save Situation.
If it is not a Save Situation, there is no need for The Closer.
But of course -- The Closer must only come in when it is a Save Situation.
If it is not a Save Situation, there is no need for The Closer.
Im not sure Cat would have made either of those.
And that's why Sparky's becoming a late inning specialist. Kind of a Dave Roberts/Gabe Kapler rolled into one.
Wonderful! Today was a pleasant surprise because I was expecting Lilly to implode. These first 6 games have been a revelation. The attitude seems all different (even different to 2003) and the results are solid. And what a difference from last year's awful start (remember the "Go Leafs Go" chants?).
We have to keep this attitude going when things go bad -- we know that there will be bad patches. For example, if Zaun gets injured then it will hurt us, especially since Myers' bat hasn't looked good all year and nothing spare at AAA. And we should probably admit that we faced a weak team (Tampa Bay) and a strong team not at its best (Manny out of sorts, and Schilling not pitching). Even so, a great start.
We have to keep this attitude going when things go bad -- we know that there will be bad patches. For example, if Zaun gets injured then it will hurt us, especially since Myers' bat hasn't looked good all year and nothing spare at AAA. And we should probably admit that we faced a weak team (Tampa Bay) and a strong team not at its best (Manny out of sorts, and Schilling not pitching). Even so, a great start.
[quote]And we should probably admit that we faced a weak team (Tampa Bay) and a strong team not at its best (Manny out of sorts, and Schilling not pitching).[/quote]
That weak team has looked better against Oak than they did against us, and even though Manny was out of sorts, Ortiz is as locked in as anyone so far...as for Schilling....well, he doesn't pitch in every series even when healty....we faced their #2/#3/#4 guys....if they have to use that as an excuse, then their starting rotation simply isn't good enough.
That weak team has looked better against Oak than they did against us, and even though Manny was out of sorts, Ortiz is as locked in as anyone so far...as for Schilling....well, he doesn't pitch in every series even when healty....we faced their #2/#3/#4 guys....if they have to use that as an excuse, then their starting rotation simply isn't good enough.
I'm probably getting ahead of myself, but if these Jays can keep up this level of play for 2 months, I'd look for JP to add some money parts.
Great game. It's a little disappointing that Lilly didn't get a W for his effort, but it was an exciting game (even if I was "watching" it on Yahoo! GameChannel).
I am more than a little surprised at how well Lilly pitched after essentially missing spring training; specifically, his command was exceptional, all things considered.
I also liked Gibbons decision to pull Schoeneweis after he got his man. I think that Scott can pitch to righties and lefties effectively this year, but also that it was smart of Gibbons to limit his appearance against a great hitting ballclub like the Sox. Let Schoeneweis face the elite lefties and, at times, average righties.
I am more than a little surprised at how well Lilly pitched after essentially missing spring training; specifically, his command was exceptional, all things considered.
I also liked Gibbons decision to pull Schoeneweis after he got his man. I think that Scott can pitch to righties and lefties effectively this year, but also that it was smart of Gibbons to limit his appearance against a great hitting ballclub like the Sox. Let Schoeneweis face the elite lefties and, at times, average righties.
the game could have been way different had Koskie been safe and had the red sox not been so damn good at hitting with 2 strikes, batista made some good pitches when he came in, but had to tip his hat to the hitters
Oh, and it was great to see ODog get three hits this game, including the game winner. It seemed that Hudson was in a bit of a mini-slump to start the season and so it's nice to see him break out of it before it got too bad.
It's ironic that Batista gets credited with a blown save, and the win.
Re: Hudson
Nice to see him vindicated. On Friday he was the final out with the bases loaded bottom of the ninth. Today he drives in the winning run bottom of the ninth.
Nice to see him vindicated. On Friday he was the final out with the bases loaded bottom of the ninth. Today he drives in the winning run bottom of the ninth.
My player of the game is Orlando Hudson. I was thinking of choosing co-MVPs but decided I would need 3 co-recipients. Lilly and Walker deserve tons of credit for their performances.
Is it too early in the season and/or too small of a sample size to say that I think some the "unsure about" type guys on offense are going to be really good?
From what I've seen so far, Russ Adams, Rios and Hinske have looked great at the plate. I know that my bias toward the Jays is mixing with the early season good play to produce perhaps a pinch too much optimism....but hey, it's a lot more fun than pessimism.
From what I've seen so far, Russ Adams, Rios and Hinske have looked great at the plate. I know that my bias toward the Jays is mixing with the early season good play to produce perhaps a pinch too much optimism....but hey, it's a lot more fun than pessimism.
For all that he blew the save, I actually liked Batista's performance overall. He got in trouble by overthrowing a few times, but his pitches were just zipping around the plate and he seemed more confident and aggressive than he did last September; getting Ramirez out with men on 1st and 3rd was huge. Had Myers held onto that foul tip, the game would've ended 3-1 in the top of the 9th. Robert's right about the change-up; I can only imagine that Batista has tried and hasn't mastered one yet. Maybe he should talk to Doc about his.
This repeats the general consensus, but I like what I'm seeing from this squad. They weren't fazed at all by the blown save, and they went right out there and won the game in short order. Obviously it's early, but John Gibbons has this team playing ball the right way. Oakland and Texas might be in for a suprise next week.
This repeats the general consensus, but I like what I'm seeing from this squad. They weren't fazed at all by the blown save, and they went right out there and won the game in short order. Obviously it's early, but John Gibbons has this team playing ball the right way. Oakland and Texas might be in for a suprise next week.
We might have to get used to games like this in 2005. The Jays have a lot of decent relievers in the pen but they have no clear ace and Batista isn't an exception because despite his stuff he has really spotty command. Not to mention half the Red Sox hitters seemed to have a history of powdering Batista. Ted Lilly and Pete Walker were the reasons the Jays won this game helping them to hold Boston to 1 run over the first 7.1 innings.
But I have to give the Jays credit. But for a collapse they could have swept the Devil Rays. And they blew out the Red Sox in one game and split the two close ones. Had Bush or League pitched better this might have been a sweep as well.
What matters is that the Jays right now hold first place in an East division where so far there is more parity than people anticipated. Whatever that means after one week.
But I have to give the Jays credit. But for a collapse they could have swept the Devil Rays. And they blew out the Red Sox in one game and split the two close ones. Had Bush or League pitched better this might have been a sweep as well.
What matters is that the Jays right now hold first place in an East division where so far there is more parity than people anticipated. Whatever that means after one week.
[quote]Is it too early in the season and/or too small of a sample size to say that I think some the "unsure about" type guys on offense are going to be really good?[/quote]
Remember Kevin Cash! Remember Kevin Cash!
Remember Kevin Cash! Remember Kevin Cash!
Going into this season I was hoping Hinske would play better so he would actually have some value in the market. Now I've seen him play, and I'm not sure if I feel the same way anymore.
.... I guess this always happens. When a player doesn't produce you wish he could be traded, but once he starts producing you want to keep him.
So far, Hinske is backing up his talk. I remember during ST last year he said he was in the best shape of his life and finally 100% injury free and felt like he would return to his rookie season form. Well we all know that didn't happen. During ST this year he said he's never been more confident and was ready to have a big season. If there was a MVP award given out after 6 games, my vote goes to Hinske. He doesn't look over-matched at the plate anymore and his D has been excellent.
Woo Hoo First place in the AL East!!!
.... I guess this always happens. When a player doesn't produce you wish he could be traded, but once he starts producing you want to keep him.
So far, Hinske is backing up his talk. I remember during ST last year he said he was in the best shape of his life and finally 100% injury free and felt like he would return to his rookie season form. Well we all know that didn't happen. During ST this year he said he's never been more confident and was ready to have a big season. If there was a MVP award given out after 6 games, my vote goes to Hinske. He doesn't look over-matched at the plate anymore and his D has been excellent.
Woo Hoo First place in the AL East!!!
Player of the game ....man its a hard one. I would have to say The Dude gets my vote, his single with the bases loaded and two out was key. Although Lilly and Walker were also deserving.
Some comments:
Boy that turf is slow. Not only the balls slow down in a hurry but the fielders looked like they were running in glue.
The big signs in the outfield walls are changing the way balls bounce, or to be more precise, don't bounce when a they hit the wall. Over the season this will give us an advantage because we'll know when to take that extra base.
To Lilly and Walker, sirs, my hat's off to you!
First place, first place, first place, first place, ALL BY OUR LONESOMES!!!
Boy that turf is slow. Not only the balls slow down in a hurry but the fielders looked like they were running in glue.
The big signs in the outfield walls are changing the way balls bounce, or to be more precise, don't bounce when a they hit the wall. Over the season this will give us an advantage because we'll know when to take that extra base.
To Lilly and Walker, sirs, my hat's off to you!
First place, first place, first place, first place, ALL BY OUR LONESOMES!!!
Player of the Game? Gotta be the O-Dog, who had three hits and sparked the rally in the 5th that broke the game open, as well as driving in Sparky for the winning run.
nice to see orlando come off 0-10 in the last 2 games and got 3-5 with some important hits, including the game winner.
My Player of the Game vote would have to go to O-Dog; Hinske and Lilly come in close behind.
If there was a MVP award given out after 6 games, my vote goes to Hinske. He doesn't look over-matched at the plate anymore and his D has been excellent.
Much as I've enjoyed Doc's two performances, and the play of Rios, I have to agree that Hinske's been the class of the team in the first two series.
Just got back from the game.....Man was that a blast!
518 has a fever, and the only prescription is more cowbell! We may have only had 5 members of the cheer club today (VBF, myself, Tyler and two of his friends) but we made the most of it. VBF's cowbell was a hit, and it revolutionized two strike counts. Great time today guys, hope to see you all again and plenty more people in the future.
Of course the game itself was a thing of beauty, as O Dog came to life and covered up for Batista's 9th inning mistakes. Yes, we could have played better, yes, we could have won all 3 games, but that doesn't take away the fact that we won 2/3 games against the Sox, and probably should have won 3.
518 has a fever, and the only prescription is more cowbell! We may have only had 5 members of the cheer club today (VBF, myself, Tyler and two of his friends) but we made the most of it. VBF's cowbell was a hit, and it revolutionized two strike counts. Great time today guys, hope to see you all again and plenty more people in the future.
Of course the game itself was a thing of beauty, as O Dog came to life and covered up for Batista's 9th inning mistakes. Yes, we could have played better, yes, we could have won all 3 games, but that doesn't take away the fact that we won 2/3 games against the Sox, and probably should have won 3.
Also just back from the game.
Lilly looked good, Pete Walker looked very good, worked nice and quickly.
And the chants of "Going... going... Myers!" almost had me doubled up in laughter - a good day all in all.
Lilly looked good, Pete Walker looked very good, worked nice and quickly.
And the chants of "Going... going... Myers!" almost had me doubled up in laughter - a good day all in all.
Yeah so far Walker is looking good. He'll be a perfect long man to take over when Towers or Chacin are not on their game. I think he makes a better starter than Towers, but he seems like he may be more valuable in the pen.
I'd really like to see League go down and try starting at Syracuse. It seems that the Bullpen will be just fine without him.
I'd really like to see League go down and try starting at Syracuse. It seems that the Bullpen will be just fine without him.
Great win for the Blue Jays. I was crapping bricks after Renteria tied it up, so it was good that Hudson quickly shut up the cocky Sox fans who thought they'd steal the game and the series.
Maybe its just me, but its always exciting (especially with this nice promising start we're on being in 1st place) when we head west. Its kind of fun to stay up late and listen to Jerry call the games from out in Oakland, Seattle etc. It also more exciting when the Jays are playing for something, as the team heads west to try and keep the W's coming. Anybody share this kind of pleasure of the West Coast road trip?
Maybe its just me, but its always exciting (especially with this nice promising start we're on being in 1st place) when we head west. Its kind of fun to stay up late and listen to Jerry call the games from out in Oakland, Seattle etc. It also more exciting when the Jays are playing for something, as the team heads west to try and keep the W's coming. Anybody share this kind of pleasure of the West Coast road trip?
Alright, then, who wants to jump on my bandwagon? My 90 win, Wild Card battle bandwagon? I mean, seeing as how I called 90 wins in the roundtable when .500 was considered "optimistic" by everyone else. Yeah, it's early, and I don't care. Feel free to ridicule me, but the current standings are like some kind of insane dream of mine.
What a weekend. I didn't get to see today's game, but I heard the eighth and ninth on the radio, and the DVD recorder at home should have a nice, shiny disc that I can watch tomorrow if I'm stuck at home due to a TTC strike. Or that I can watch at work if there's no TTC strike. It's good to have options.
What a weekend. I didn't get to see today's game, but I heard the eighth and ninth on the radio, and the DVD recorder at home should have a nice, shiny disc that I can watch tomorrow if I'm stuck at home due to a TTC strike. Or that I can watch at work if there's no TTC strike. It's good to have options.
Yea, living on the seafront in Parksville BC (aka Lotusland) it's always great to see the Jays head west. I often go to Seattle to see the Jays play.
One great thing out here is that on the weekend the eastern games start at 10AM so I get up, grab a coffee and the weekend paper and lay around until the Jays have slaughtered their latest hapless victim! Then I get dressed, get out, and have a full day ahead of me!
One great thing out here is that on the weekend the eastern games start at 10AM so I get up, grab a coffee and the weekend paper and lay around until the Jays have slaughtered their latest hapless victim! Then I get dressed, get out, and have a full day ahead of me!
NFH, if the Jays go 7-2 or better on the road trip, I'm on....;)
This just in...I love the west coast trips.
This just in...I love the west coast trips.
Another super cheer club outing and a beauty of a game to watch.
NFH, I bet on the Jays getting 94 wins, and I'll stick to it even if it becomes mathematically impossible. I am the uber-optimist.
As for the Cheer Club - we had a nice 5 person contingent that really got the 500 level going thanks to VBF's wonderful cow bell. Some excellently loud "Maaaaaaaaannyyyyyyyy" chants, as well as massive strikeout clapping.
For the ninth inning, I had never heard the Dome crowd as loud as I did then. Every pitch, cheering was huge. When there were two strikes, every Jays fan was on his feet, screaming for Batista to finish it off - never have I before heard the dome go from the loudest I've ever heard it to the quietest I've ever heard it so much as during that Batista ninth.
Two nice highlights near the end though was a "let's go red sox" chant being quickly drowned out by cheers for Batista with the bases loaded and Renteria up (didn't work, though), and the final two hits in the bottom of the ninth.
Not only are the Jays absolutely great this year, but the crowds are becoming awesome - today's 22,000 fan crowd was even louder than yesterday's 28,000 fan crowd (I wasn't at the opener so I couldn't judge). I refuse, on those grounds, to be even the slightest of a pessimist. We beat Tampa Bay, a team that has crushed teams like Oakland 11-2. We beat the Red Sox, the world series champions. It's a GOOD SIGN. Anyone who suggests we need to avoid getting ahead of ourselves should be thrown into a half-full vat of water.
And I KNEW Koskie was safe!
NFH, I bet on the Jays getting 94 wins, and I'll stick to it even if it becomes mathematically impossible. I am the uber-optimist.
As for the Cheer Club - we had a nice 5 person contingent that really got the 500 level going thanks to VBF's wonderful cow bell. Some excellently loud "Maaaaaaaaannyyyyyyyy" chants, as well as massive strikeout clapping.
For the ninth inning, I had never heard the Dome crowd as loud as I did then. Every pitch, cheering was huge. When there were two strikes, every Jays fan was on his feet, screaming for Batista to finish it off - never have I before heard the dome go from the loudest I've ever heard it to the quietest I've ever heard it so much as during that Batista ninth.
Two nice highlights near the end though was a "let's go red sox" chant being quickly drowned out by cheers for Batista with the bases loaded and Renteria up (didn't work, though), and the final two hits in the bottom of the ninth.
Not only are the Jays absolutely great this year, but the crowds are becoming awesome - today's 22,000 fan crowd was even louder than yesterday's 28,000 fan crowd (I wasn't at the opener so I couldn't judge). I refuse, on those grounds, to be even the slightest of a pessimist. We beat Tampa Bay, a team that has crushed teams like Oakland 11-2. We beat the Red Sox, the world series champions. It's a GOOD SIGN. Anyone who suggests we need to avoid getting ahead of ourselves should be thrown into a half-full vat of water.
And I KNEW Koskie was safe!
Mylegacy, those 10am weekend starts are what I miss most about living in the West Coast. Sure, it sucks to barely be able to see a game live; but shooting out of bed around 10ish and turning on the game with breakfast was heaven.
On the flipside, I do like watching games that start at 10pm; if I get the chance to steal a nap after work.
On the flipside, I do like watching games that start at 10pm; if I get the chance to steal a nap after work.
Speaking of the Cheer Club, stay tuned in the next two days for news of the Official Cheer Club Opener 2005, April 22 vs Baltimore. I'm working on some nice gimmicks and signs (depending on openings in NFHs busy schedule) for the first official outing so I hope to see as many of you there (or the next day) as possible.
Yes, 518 was rockin the RC today with honourable mention to 135 who had a constant MAAAAAAAANNNNNNNYYYYYY taunt going quite often.
There is definitely a fresh atmosphere in the Dome this year.
The only downside with this game was the return of the dreaded "charge" melody, although it only made one appearance. As well, Red Sox merchandise continues to be sold at concessions.
There is definitely a fresh atmosphere in the Dome this year.
The only downside with this game was the return of the dreaded "charge" melody, although it only made one appearance. As well, Red Sox merchandise continues to be sold at concessions.
I know that the attendence for the home opener was 50 000+
(50 560 ?), but I haven't yet heard the figures from the 9th or 10th in regards to attendence. Does anyone have the figures for home games 2 and 3?
(50 560 ?), but I haven't yet heard the figures from the 9th or 10th in regards to attendence. Does anyone have the figures for home games 2 and 3?
Non-topic note for Jobu: there's a piece on page 3 of the New York Times today about the Molina brothers. (For some reason, it's not on the on-line version of the NYT. You could check it out in the library.) Turns out they're very nice boys. You might not like them. :)
Yep. Saturday, the announced attendance was 28,000 and today the attendance was 22,000, although I know what 22,000 looks like and today was probably 25,000. The field level bases sections were near capacity and I estimated only about 3-4,000 Sox fans if not less.
Home from the RC Dome... another day of scrambling to find a working phone line... tougher than yesterday but found one eventually...
Was that VBF with the cowbell? Nice work, just kick-started the whole crowd there...
Very tough blown save. You can't catch a foul tip. It either hits your glove and stays there... or it doesn't. And then Damon with his chopper off the plate.
I don't know how it looked on television, but I had my own gv27 experience with a ball hit towards the outfield wall scoreboards on Hudson's ninth-inning double. It just disappeared, and I had no idea where it was.
Uh, first place? Last time the Jays were alone in first place? I think it was May 4, 2001.
Next time I ask a question, I'll have to at least do some basic searching for the answer first. TSN.ca reports that the Jays drew 102,170 to the homestand, with 22,845 at today's game.
The fact that only 22,000 came out today is quite disappointing in my mind. I figured that for the season opening series, the Jays should be able to draw 40,000 per game at least...especially against the World Series Champions. Oh well.
The fact that only 22,000 came out today is quite disappointing in my mind. I figured that for the season opening series, the Jays should be able to draw 40,000 per game at least...especially against the World Series Champions. Oh well.
Don't worry, with good editing and script writting we can make the Molinas! come across with whichever personality our key demographic perfers....
I'm thinking this week on a very special Too Many Molinas! Carl Weathers guest stars as a homeless man who teaches the brothers alot about stereotypes, and more importantly themselves.
I'm thinking this week on a very special Too Many Molinas! Carl Weathers guest stars as a homeless man who teaches the brothers alot about stereotypes, and more importantly themselves.
Jobu, you crack me up! Carl Weathers fan club!! Too Many Molinas! Fan Club!!
I was away for the weekend and didn't get to see any of the games, but the new game thread formats are really working with the "new rules." I was able to read through each game I missed and it was basically as if I saw the games in person. Great job guys, keep up the EXCELLENT work.
Jays 4-2 and in first?!?! WOO HOO!!!!!!!
If the season ended today.....
j/k of course!
I was away for the weekend and didn't get to see any of the games, but the new game thread formats are really working with the "new rules." I was able to read through each game I missed and it was basically as if I saw the games in person. Great job guys, keep up the EXCELLENT work.
Jays 4-2 and in first?!?! WOO HOO!!!!!!!
If the season ended today.....
j/k of course!
I sat in 527 with my little brother and really enjoyed the game. Where does the Cheer Club usually sit? I've never been to a game in that section, but I want to come and help too. Also, Consider me on the 90 win bandwagon if the Jays are able to keep their current winning percentage after this nine game road trip (i.e. go at least 6-3).
A fun note: the supposedly "powerless" Jays are currently leading the American League in extra-base hits and slugging percentage and tied with the Yankees for the league lead in home runs. :) Also, here are some observations I posted on another forum about the season thusfar. Tell me if these seem ridiculous...
1) Eric Hinske, as I said in a previous post after yesterday's game, looks like a completely different hitter. I honestly think this is his season to have a career year. Through 19AB he is hitting .368BA/.429OBP/.737SLG%. I don't expect him to keep going like that (he's on a hot streak right now), but I can easily see him going .290/.380/.500 which would make him well above-average for a first baseman with the stick. He looks impressive in the field too, getting to balls that Delgado would never have reached.
2) Rios is also raking to the tune of .438BA/.444OBP/.688SLG% in 16AB while our shortstop platoon (Adams and McDonald) has looked nice, combining for .333BA/.400OBP/.611SLG%. I expect a breakout year from Rios to the tune of .310BA/.340OBP/.460SLG%. If his power develops more quickly then he might slug more and if he can learn to wait for his pitch better then he might wind up drawing more walks. About the only thing I'm really certain about is that he will hit for a good average and strike out a lot (though he does have 0SO through 11AB so far so it's possible he's worked on that). I like Adams and McDonald a lot as a pair too, but we're definitely seeing them on a hot streak right now. McDonald has never hit like this before his career and I don't expect it to continue. I would be extatic if Adams kept up his current BA and OBP while falling off a bit in terms of SLG% and Adams continued his career path as a great gloveman and poor to mediocre hitter.
3) Hillebrand has been fantastic so far. He is hitting for a high average, driving the ball to the gaps, and not walking very often. That's pretty much exactly what I was expecting from him. I would think his batting average will fall sixty points and his slugging percentage will go down with it, but his OBP will only go down twenty or thirty points because he hasn't walked even once yet and history shows he's good for 25 or so in a full season. He's not a bad fifth or sixth hitter by any means (especially on a team with some speed and baserunning ability at the top of the lineup) and his ability to spot Koskie well at third with the Canuck DHing (as he did today) means that our cleanup hitter will probably play the most games he has since 2001. Speaking of Koskie, his .190BA belies the fact that he hasn't been nearly that bad so far. He's already walked four times and hit a homer. Once he starts getting more hits he'll probably bring that average up at least seventy points or so and the OBP and SLG% will go up with it. In fact, the SLG% will probably increase even more as more of those added hits will likely go for extra bases. He's been pretty sharp in the field too.
4) John Gibbons is doing a great job as the manager. He is making all of the same moves I would make and using this team's versatility to great advantage. The way he is giving everyone playing time and subbing in "vs. LHP specialists" like Menechino and Johnson at opportune times is brilliant. Also, despite the somewhat porous relief pitching, I think he is using the bullpen in exactly the same way that I would. The only thing we've disagreed about so far is that I think Bush could have gone for an extra inning on Friday.
5) Ted Lilly looked sharp today. 6SO, 1BB, and 0HR in five innings of work is an impressive start by any standards and even better when you consider that he missed all of spring training. This is his first time throwing in a game of any kind since last season. I can see him being just as effective as he was last year which makes him a very nice number two starter behind Halladay.
6) Chacin and Towers were great in their first starts and I think they will be better as the back-end of the rotation than anyone thought they would going into the season. Towers has a track record as a decent, albeit not great, number five and I think Chacin has a chance to be a plus as a number four.
7) The go-to guys in our bullpen (Batista, Speier, and Schoeneweis) have had their struggles, but in all fairness to them it is just a small sample size so far. They all have a track record of success as relievers so I'll just put their poor play down to rust and (thusfar) short-term slumps. I'm more concerned with Brandon League's pitching so far. He's immensely talented and still very young (just turned 22 in March) so it might just be that he's not quite ready yet. His fastball is electric and his slider can be just as good with some more work on control. His change-up, however, looks like it needs so real work. It's too straight and he has had trouble spotting it so far. I think half a season or so more in Syracuse could really benefit him. I'm in favour of adding a fifth guy to the bench rather than another reliever too. If we add another arm it should be a lefty, but the only lefties on Syracuse are Downs and Carlson. I think Gaudin, Miller, and Glynn are all probably more likely to get the call. If League is sent down soon then I hope J.P. looks to waivers or a trade for a guy who can hit lefties and play first or third or a lefty reliever.
8) On the plus side, Vinnie Chulk, Jason Frasor, and Pete Walker have all looked sharp. So far they've combined for seven strikeouts, two walks, and no home runs allowed in 7 1/3IP. That's not bad for the back-end of our bullpen.
A quick thought on the Oakland series too: reigning Rookie of the Year Bobby Crosby is injured and will miss the whole series. He has pop and a great glove so that definitely gives the Jays a better chance at taking the three game set.
A fun note: the supposedly "powerless" Jays are currently leading the American League in extra-base hits and slugging percentage and tied with the Yankees for the league lead in home runs. :) Also, here are some observations I posted on another forum about the season thusfar. Tell me if these seem ridiculous...
1) Eric Hinske, as I said in a previous post after yesterday's game, looks like a completely different hitter. I honestly think this is his season to have a career year. Through 19AB he is hitting .368BA/.429OBP/.737SLG%. I don't expect him to keep going like that (he's on a hot streak right now), but I can easily see him going .290/.380/.500 which would make him well above-average for a first baseman with the stick. He looks impressive in the field too, getting to balls that Delgado would never have reached.
2) Rios is also raking to the tune of .438BA/.444OBP/.688SLG% in 16AB while our shortstop platoon (Adams and McDonald) has looked nice, combining for .333BA/.400OBP/.611SLG%. I expect a breakout year from Rios to the tune of .310BA/.340OBP/.460SLG%. If his power develops more quickly then he might slug more and if he can learn to wait for his pitch better then he might wind up drawing more walks. About the only thing I'm really certain about is that he will hit for a good average and strike out a lot (though he does have 0SO through 11AB so far so it's possible he's worked on that). I like Adams and McDonald a lot as a pair too, but we're definitely seeing them on a hot streak right now. McDonald has never hit like this before his career and I don't expect it to continue. I would be extatic if Adams kept up his current BA and OBP while falling off a bit in terms of SLG% and Adams continued his career path as a great gloveman and poor to mediocre hitter.
3) Hillebrand has been fantastic so far. He is hitting for a high average, driving the ball to the gaps, and not walking very often. That's pretty much exactly what I was expecting from him. I would think his batting average will fall sixty points and his slugging percentage will go down with it, but his OBP will only go down twenty or thirty points because he hasn't walked even once yet and history shows he's good for 25 or so in a full season. He's not a bad fifth or sixth hitter by any means (especially on a team with some speed and baserunning ability at the top of the lineup) and his ability to spot Koskie well at third with the Canuck DHing (as he did today) means that our cleanup hitter will probably play the most games he has since 2001. Speaking of Koskie, his .190BA belies the fact that he hasn't been nearly that bad so far. He's already walked four times and hit a homer. Once he starts getting more hits he'll probably bring that average up at least seventy points or so and the OBP and SLG% will go up with it. In fact, the SLG% will probably increase even more as more of those added hits will likely go for extra bases. He's been pretty sharp in the field too.
4) John Gibbons is doing a great job as the manager. He is making all of the same moves I would make and using this team's versatility to great advantage. The way he is giving everyone playing time and subbing in "vs. LHP specialists" like Menechino and Johnson at opportune times is brilliant. Also, despite the somewhat porous relief pitching, I think he is using the bullpen in exactly the same way that I would. The only thing we've disagreed about so far is that I think Bush could have gone for an extra inning on Friday.
5) Ted Lilly looked sharp today. 6SO, 1BB, and 0HR in five innings of work is an impressive start by any standards and even better when you consider that he missed all of spring training. This is his first time throwing in a game of any kind since last season. I can see him being just as effective as he was last year which makes him a very nice number two starter behind Halladay.
6) Chacin and Towers were great in their first starts and I think they will be better as the back-end of the rotation than anyone thought they would going into the season. Towers has a track record as a decent, albeit not great, number five and I think Chacin has a chance to be a plus as a number four.
7) The go-to guys in our bullpen (Batista, Speier, and Schoeneweis) have had their struggles, but in all fairness to them it is just a small sample size so far. They all have a track record of success as relievers so I'll just put their poor play down to rust and (thusfar) short-term slumps. I'm more concerned with Brandon League's pitching so far. He's immensely talented and still very young (just turned 22 in March) so it might just be that he's not quite ready yet. His fastball is electric and his slider can be just as good with some more work on control. His change-up, however, looks like it needs so real work. It's too straight and he has had trouble spotting it so far. I think half a season or so more in Syracuse could really benefit him. I'm in favour of adding a fifth guy to the bench rather than another reliever too. If we add another arm it should be a lefty, but the only lefties on Syracuse are Downs and Carlson. I think Gaudin, Miller, and Glynn are all probably more likely to get the call. If League is sent down soon then I hope J.P. looks to waivers or a trade for a guy who can hit lefties and play first or third or a lefty reliever.
8) On the plus side, Vinnie Chulk, Jason Frasor, and Pete Walker have all looked sharp. So far they've combined for seven strikeouts, two walks, and no home runs allowed in 7 1/3IP. That's not bad for the back-end of our bullpen.
A quick thought on the Oakland series too: reigning Rookie of the Year Bobby Crosby is injured and will miss the whole series. He has pop and a great glove so that definitely gives the Jays a better chance at taking the three game set.
Hinske and Rios were obviously the two jays' hitters with most potential room for improvement going into the year....if they can be quality hitters for us (.800+ ops), all of a sudden our offense looks much, much better than we may have thought.
NickOfTime (good movie) the Cheer Club gathers in section 518. I extend you a personal welcome to join us for our Official First Session of the year on Apr 22nd and bring whomever you wish. If you cant make that series we'll be going strong for Tampa as well, or you can try and find who made it out for our "unofficial spring training cheer club" outings for the upcomming New York series.
A big game for the Jays, no question.
I have a feeling the Batista-as-closer issue is going to be recurring subject of debate (though I hope he goes on a tear and makes JP look like a genius). It seems a bit odd that our closer regularly has trouble throwing the ball over the plate and is prone to meltdowns. In fairness, though, he was able to minimize the damage today and keep the Jays in it.
I have a feeling the Batista-as-closer issue is going to be recurring subject of debate (though I hope he goes on a tear and makes JP look like a genius). It seems a bit odd that our closer regularly has trouble throwing the ball over the plate and is prone to meltdowns. In fairness, though, he was able to minimize the damage today and keep the Jays in it.
Thanks, Jobu. :) I only have exams on April 19 and May 2 this year so that's pretty good timing as far as I'm concerned. I'm excited. :)
I mean, seeing as how I called 90 wins in the roundtable when .500 was considered "optimistic" by everyone else.
I didn't think it was optimistic. Since I predicted 81-81, I think .500 is perfectly realistic. :)
It's too early for bandwagons though, Aaron. Talk to me in June, by which time I'll be getting fully committed.
And I KNEW Koskie was safe!
On the evidence of the two replays I've seen, I think he was out. Anyway, I don't think anyone can fault Meriwether (the plate ump) for the call, as he was in great position, right on top of the play.
I figured that for the season opening series, the Jays should be able to draw 40,000 per game at least...
No, after Opening Day the crowds usually fall off substantially. In 2002, the last time the home opener was on a weekend, the Jays drew 15,000, 18,000, and 21,000 on the weekend after 47,000 on Opening Day. Don't forget, schools are still in, and the roof is still closed.
The crowds are excellent all things considered, nice job by the team in marketing.
Oh, and it was great to see ODog get three hits this game, including the game winner. It seemed that Hudson was in a bit of a mini-slump to start the season and so it's nice to see him break out of it before it got too bad.
Hudson came in batting .263 -- hardly a slump. This "slump" has been noted by many at Da Box but, really, the difference between .263 and .300 is one hit at this point in the year.
RE: the condition of Manny Ramirez...
He might not be 100% but he actually showed some hustle this afternoon that I didn't think existed in his game. It was first apparent on a crisp throw back to the infield and then on a single to right-centre that he took a very large turn around first on just to challenge Rios (maybe Wells) to get the ball in quickly.
It's ironic that Batista gets credited with a blown save, and the win.
Blown Save, Win = BS W...I think that says it all. Really though, I was sitting with Leigh and a friend of his and commented that I feel uneasy about Bastista nibbling and fighting for control against a line-up as potent as the BoSox. Then I had to leave with 2 outs to get down the street for the Rock season finale so I missed the end of the game. But from the three outs I did see Batista get, I agree with Jordan -- as a "hurler", Bastista was awsome but as a pitcher...Well Arnsberg has some work to do still.
Overall, after the first two homestands, I'd say we've seen the ceiling of this ball club in that most things have gone right (especially in terms of the quality starts from our rotation) and as a result we're winning some games. The only place I'd realistically think improvement could be made is in V-Dub's bat and SS/League's ability to get outs (Batista is 2/3 in Sv opportunities, which is not unexpected).
Surely a job well done on the first two series of the season so bring on Oakland!
On a side note: the lacrosse game I ditched the baseball game for was excellent. The Rock came back from 7 down in the fourth quarter to beat Philly 14-13...If you've never been to a Rock game, they're a blast -- everyone's into it and the place is just nuts. But they also do a great job connecting with young lacrosse players to keep a strong fan-base. This afternoon, for example, after the game every Rock player came out and sat at tables so fans could line up and get autographs. Hopefully Rogers will find a way to create the same sorts of bonds between its fans and its players.
A bit of perspective.
The Jays just got their fourth win, to move their record to 4-2.
In 2004, when they got their fourth win, it moved their record to 4-11.
So this is better. By a lot.
The Jays just got their fourth win, to move their record to 4-2.
In 2004, when they got their fourth win, it moved their record to 4-11.
So this is better. By a lot.
Slam has a great site for jays attendence figures.
Lets you see them in comparison to last years numbers....
Here is the link:
http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/tsnform.aspx?c=canoe&page=mlb/teams/040/attendance.aspx?team=040
Lets you see them in comparison to last years numbers....
Here is the link:
http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/tsnform.aspx?c=canoe&page=mlb/teams/040/attendance.aspx?team=040
Was it just me...but I thought Batista was OK until the first person got on base then he slowed down and started nibbling.
Overall, after the first two homestands
Of course what I meant to say was "Overall, after the first two series..."
Hudson came in batting .263 -- hardly a slump. This "slump" has been noted by many at Da Box but, really, the difference between .263 and .300 is one hit at this point in the year.
I think the person who said Hudson was in the slump was refering to the previous 10 AB's where Hudson failed to record a hit. Obviously 0 for 10 isn't a huge slump, but with those games being the Opener, and the game after, most fans hadn't seen Orlando get a hit until today.
Hudson came in batting .263 -- hardly a slump. This "slump" has been noted by many at Da Box but, really, the difference between .263 and .300 is one hit at this point in the year.
He came into todays game batting .182, and was 0-10 in the two previous games. It was 2 bad games that thankfully didn't turn into three bad games. Calling anything a slump after two games is definately jumping the gun though ;)
[quote]Overall, after the first two homestands, I'd say we've seen the ceiling of this ball club in that most things have gone right (especially in terms of the quality starts from our rotation) and as a result we're winning some games.[/quote]
In terms of hitting, maybe.
In terms of pitching, they can all look much better than they have so far.
In terms of hitting, maybe.
In terms of pitching, they can all look much better than they have so far.
Was it just me...but I thought Batista was OK until the first person got on base then he slowed down and started nibbling.
He actually almost got the save and Damon's groundball wasn't really anybody's fault. He did start nibbling though when things got tight.
Also, don't forget that these are the Boston Red Sox. I don't like them any more than anyone but if there's one team that is supposed to at least make it close, it's them. To take two of three isn't something to rewrite the history books, but a good accomplishment nonetheless. The Sox were hungry coming off a disapointing Opening Series and we shut the door.
As the great MeatLoaf once said "Two outta three ain't bad."
I extend you a personal welcome to join us for our Official First Session of the year on Apr 22nd and bring whomever you wish. If you cant make that series we'll be going strong for Tampa as well, or you can try and find who made it out for our "unofficial spring training cheer club" outings for the upcomming New York series.
How bourgeois - if Jobu isn't there, it's unofficial. I fart in your general direction! Your mother was a hampster... and so on and so forth.
In all seriousness, though - do come to 518 immediately at the next homestand, all who have inquired - I'll be there as will likely many CC regulars, and we'll be just as loud as any "official session" could possibly be :-)
In addition, I'll be scanning the secondhand music stores in the near future for a suitable marching drum to replace the O-drum. Stay tuned, this could change me into some sort of useful Tyler. Until then, though, we should rely on VBF's cowbell - now THAT was some good stuff today - truly got the 500 level riled up.
How bourgeois - if Jobu isn't there, it's unofficial. I fart in your general direction! Your mother was a hampster... and so on and so forth.
In all seriousness, though - do come to 518 immediately at the next homestand, all who have inquired - I'll be there as will likely many CC regulars, and we'll be just as loud as any "official session" could possibly be :-)
In addition, I'll be scanning the secondhand music stores in the near future for a suitable marching drum to replace the O-drum. Stay tuned, this could change me into some sort of useful Tyler. Until then, though, we should rely on VBF's cowbell - now THAT was some good stuff today - truly got the 500 level riled up.
On the evidence of the two replays I've seen, I think he was out. Anyway, I don't think anyone can fault Meriwether (the plate ump) for the call, as he was in great position, right on top of the play.
I have the DVD of yesterday's game sitting in my bag to go to work with me tomorrow. I'll find the play and see if I can post definitive proof, one way or the other.
And Craig, there's always space for you on the bandwagon. ;)
Woo! Uncontested possession of first place! Woo again!
Of course, it's too early to come to any conclusions about the 2005 Jays, but so far, so good: they fought three epic battles against the defending world champions, and won two of them. They might not win anything, but at this rate they'll be good value for the entertainment dollar, and a team that will be easy to support.
Of course, an ironclad rule of team watching is this: a team never is as good as it looks when it's going well, or as bad as it looks when it's slumping.
One thing that I realized today about the team is that it has more depth than any Jays team we've seen in a while. The bullpen is likely to experience as many good days as bad days, but there are no really cruddy signings or triple-A retreads on the staff. Ditto for the hitters: everybody on the bench can do something useful, and has a defined role.
I'm not going to criticize Batista for this outing. He came in and got the key man out in the eighth. In the ninth, he twice came within one strike of saving the game, and was victimized by that high chopper that loaded the bases. And, as you probably recall, the opposition hitters are rather good. What the hey, the team got a W, so that's "mission accomplished" in my book.
Of course, it's too early to come to any conclusions about the 2005 Jays, but so far, so good: they fought three epic battles against the defending world champions, and won two of them. They might not win anything, but at this rate they'll be good value for the entertainment dollar, and a team that will be easy to support.
Of course, an ironclad rule of team watching is this: a team never is as good as it looks when it's going well, or as bad as it looks when it's slumping.
One thing that I realized today about the team is that it has more depth than any Jays team we've seen in a while. The bullpen is likely to experience as many good days as bad days, but there are no really cruddy signings or triple-A retreads on the staff. Ditto for the hitters: everybody on the bench can do something useful, and has a defined role.
I'm not going to criticize Batista for this outing. He came in and got the key man out in the eighth. In the ninth, he twice came within one strike of saving the game, and was victimized by that high chopper that loaded the bases. And, as you probably recall, the opposition hitters are rather good. What the hey, the team got a W, so that's "mission accomplished" in my book.
VBF said he wouldn't be at the Yankee games (I believe he'll be at the O's series though) so perhaps this will force my hand, and result in a new cowbell purchase.
Some of you may remember that my excuse for a Game Report after Friday night focused on how Dave Bush was working the opposing hitters.
What interests me now is that after doing that on Friday, I was still looking at at-bats with all that stuff in mind over the rest of the weekend. And it really came home to me on the Ortiz AB in the 8th with one out and Ramirez on at first.
The Jays had been doing two things with Ortiz all weekend whenever possible: they put the defense into a Delgado-Giambi style shift, and they tried to bust him outside. (Doesn't it drive you nuts when they defense a guy to pull the ball and then pitch him away?)
The day before, Halladay had tried to come inside on Ortiz with a fastball that tailed back over the middle of the plate. Ouch. Today, Schoeneweis got the one pitch he threw in the ball game in - or in enough - on Ortiz's hands. Ortiz is a great hitter, and he was still able to crack a grounder to the right side, past Hinske (who had to hold the runner on the bag.)
Except Hudson was set up in shallow right field, got to the ball, and threw out the lead runner at second. Orlando's momentum had practically taken him right to the foul line when he released his throw. I've almost never seen a second baseman make a throw to the shortstop from that spot.
Ah, baseball. The details are endlessly rewarding. Anyway, it's got me thinking I should continue to be alert about this on my Friday night Game Report assignments. Friday is regularly the first game of a three game series, and it should be a good opportunity to spot patterns that will continue to play out over the rest of the weekend.
they tried to bust him outside.
Ouch. They tried to bust him inside all weekend. Inside. I was already anticipating my next... thought?
Another great win for the Jays. Wow, so not fair that I got to see the home opener when they lose.
Anyways, is the Jays' 'pen forever cursed? So frustrating to see Batista 'Frascatore' the game.
Def'n: to Frascatore - v. to blow the lead in relief, then pickup the victory.
see John Frascatore - rp on the 1999 Jays
Anyways, is the Jays' 'pen forever cursed? So frustrating to see Batista 'Frascatore' the game.
Def'n: to Frascatore - v. to blow the lead in relief, then pickup the victory.
see John Frascatore - rp on the 1999 Jays
He came into todays game batting .182, and was 0-10 in the two previous games. It was 2 bad games that thankfully didn't turn into three bad games. Calling anything a slump after two games is definately jumping the gun though ;)
Which is why I tried to phrase it in such a way that implied it wasn't that big of a deal. I simply was trying to say that Orlando hadn't had a very good two games and that it was nice to see him get a bunch of hits to stop what could have potentially turned into a slump. It is easy for a player to get off to a bad start of a season and have it carry on .
Hudson's .263 average is what was shown at the game this afternoon. Apologies for repeating an incorrect statistic.
(Doesn't it drive you nuts when they defense a guy to pull the ball and then pitch him away?)
But how many times does a hitter that is defensed this way hit a groundball the other way through the hole? I can't think of too many instances of it happening.
Yes, the cowbell will be making an appearance on Friday's game vs. Baltimore and the Sunday game although it will be in section 141.
I might be able to make it to the Thursday Yankees game but it looks doubtful. As for the Cheer Club Opener I'll bring another two cowbells that I can borrow off a friend.
If we could get about six bells and place ourself in various sections on the 500 level and ring it simultaneously, we could get that place even louder.
I might be able to make it to the Thursday Yankees game but it looks doubtful. As for the Cheer Club Opener I'll bring another two cowbells that I can borrow off a friend.
If we could get about six bells and place ourself in various sections on the 500 level and ring it simultaneously, we could get that place even louder.
No cowbell to go along with the "overrated" chants? What a crime!
I may need to buy myself a cowbell.
Then by the time the "official" cheer club opener comes around, we'll have a giant chorus of cowbells.
I may need to buy myself a cowbell.
Then by the time the "official" cheer club opener comes around, we'll have a giant chorus of cowbells.
To ttetpo: I prefer an even more vulgar phrasing to describe that type of affair...
"To pull a Pedro Borbon"
Def.:
(1) To give up a homerun at an inopportune time, likely leading to a defecit of score for one's team, and / or loss of dominating lead in a ballgame.
(2) To pitch as though you are helping out at batting practice by throwing fastballs that are both straight, and of perfect "teeing-off" speed -- not too fast, but just fast enough to jack out of the yard. (Also known as pulling a "Mike Timlin".
.....
On another note, I would like to define another term:
"Esteban Loaiza-like" / "To Loaiza-tize"
Def.: To perform well beyond one's capabilities diretly after leaving the Toronto Blue Jays. In some cases, such players might be motviated by their treatment by Blue Jays, or alleged mistreatment. This term applies to players both in during, and following the Gord Ash era.
Recent Examples: Esteban Loaiza (2003 season in Chicago), Cesar Izturis (2004-2005 seasons, I wish he was still here!), Doug Davis (2004 season), Chris Carpenter* (2004 season),... the list goes on.
*In Chris Carpenter's case, he did appear to have this potential at times in Toronto.
"To pull a Pedro Borbon"
Def.:
(1) To give up a homerun at an inopportune time, likely leading to a defecit of score for one's team, and / or loss of dominating lead in a ballgame.
(2) To pitch as though you are helping out at batting practice by throwing fastballs that are both straight, and of perfect "teeing-off" speed -- not too fast, but just fast enough to jack out of the yard. (Also known as pulling a "Mike Timlin".
.....
On another note, I would like to define another term:
"Esteban Loaiza-like" / "To Loaiza-tize"
Def.: To perform well beyond one's capabilities diretly after leaving the Toronto Blue Jays. In some cases, such players might be motviated by their treatment by Blue Jays, or alleged mistreatment. This term applies to players both in during, and following the Gord Ash era.
Recent Examples: Esteban Loaiza (2003 season in Chicago), Cesar Izturis (2004-2005 seasons, I wish he was still here!), Doug Davis (2004 season), Chris Carpenter* (2004 season),... the list goes on.
*In Chris Carpenter's case, he did appear to have this potential at times in Toronto.
To: Geoff
Timlin doesn't deserve that kind of recognition, come on now. I'd still love to have him.
I do like the 'to Loaiza-tize' defn. We've seen many a player here do that do us.
I think Frascatore was 7-1 in the year he pitched for the Jays. Bourbon outright sucked.
Timlin doesn't deserve that kind of recognition, come on now. I'd still love to have him.
I do like the 'to Loaiza-tize' defn. We've seen many a player here do that do us.
I think Frascatore was 7-1 in the year he pitched for the Jays. Bourbon outright sucked.