MLB 2011 Season Thread

[Hardkore Kidd J]

THANK YOU GOD! I am really loving this Granderson trade now . Without Granderson making that unbelievable diving catch in the fifth we would have been done. We still got one more game to go hopefully we can beat Fister again. But, Texas is gonna be really, really, tough. If there's any team that's gonna win the World Series. Unfortunately I think it's gonna be them.

[RP]

Pretty pumped about that game 5. Tigers should say fuck it and start Verlander.

[ClockShot]

10-1 beatdown, Blownett comes through, Rothschild kept him cool, and game 5 is forced.

Feeling pretty good right now.

[ClockShot]

Reggie Jackson called. He wants his nickname back.


http://www.nypost.com/rw/nypost/2011/10/05/covers/back100511.jpg

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Pretty pumped about that game 5. Tigers should say fuck it and start Verlander.

He last pitched on Monday. Hmmmmmmmm..............If we were having game 5 tonight I'd say pitching on 2 days rest is very risky. Pitching on 3 days rest is still kinda risky. I don't know if they should do it.

[RP]

Do you trust Doug Fister in a series deciding game?

[RP]

What's really dumb is the talk that CC might get time in the bullpen. If you're gunna waste him for a potential game 1 ALCS start, it better be because he started game 5 .

[Tb1]

Helluva start for the Cards

[Aguakate]

Reggie Jackson called. He wants his nickname back.


http://www.nypost.com/rw/nypost/2011/10/05/covers/back100511.jpg

The New York media is a joke. They get on Burnett because of his struggles all season long, then he pitches well last night and they all of a sudden put him on the front page and call him "Mr October", which puts unwanted pressure on him, and if he struggles ONCE this playoffs, you'll see the media wiping the floor with him again.

[ClockShot]

Notice the bottle of liquor underneath the picture. This is what me and Inno mean when AJ Burnett has a good game. He sobered up.

[ClockShot]

Girardi is putting Sabathia in the bullpen for game 5. In case of emergency.

Leyland is giving Verlander the night off.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Do you trust Doug Fister in a series deciding game?

Most of that was just me worried about facing Verlander again that's all. ;) As a Yankee fan I TRUST Fister will be a much easier Challenge then Verlander. :)

[McLegend]

OMG The Phillies offense is so bad. Maybe the worst 100 win offensive teams of all time.

They are horrible.

[Innovator]

The New York media is a joke. They get on Burnett because of his struggles all season long, then he pitches well last night and they all of a sudden put him on the front page and call him "Mr October", which puts unwanted pressure on him, and if he struggles ONCE this playoffs, you'll see the media wiping the floor with him again.
That was the joke Aguy

[RP]

Beast Mode vs The Fang

[RP]

The atmosphere in Arizona is fantastic.

[RP]

Nijer Morgan is about due for some sort of controversy.

[RP]

Rooting for Zona. Fuck the Brew Crew.

[RP]

No way Goldschmidt does it again

[RP]

Horrible strike call

[RP]

Booooooom!!!!!

[RP]

Grand slam Ryan Roberts.

[RP]

FANGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!

[RP]

Back to back!!!! Brewers are getting owned!!!

[Skippord]

fucking Brewers

[DaveWadding]

Wish I had gone to the game tonight. Shit.

[DaveWadding]

YOU'VE BEEN...THUNDERSTRUCK

[DaveWadding]

ONE MORE OUT!!!!

[DaveWadding]

GOOOOOOOLLLLLLDDDDDDDDDDDSCHHHHHMMMMIIIIIDTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT

[RoXer]

The atmosphere in Arizona is fantastic.

it wasn't even sold out. upper level was like half full, not even.

still, those that were there were rowdy enough

[RoXer]

Just beat the Brewers with the D-Backs 3-2 in MLB 11: The Show.

So no need to even play the game tomorrow because that's how it's going to end.

I'll write the comissioner's office to let them know.

[RoXer]

Ziegler got out of a jam in the 7th.

Putz pitches to Fielder in the 9th with a man on and he grounds out.

[Triple Naitch]

Robin Ventura named White Sox manager. Pretty surprising move.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Ventura</font> :love:

[RP]

Better get C.C. up in the pen

[RP]

I bet the Yankees are nervous that Jigga is in the front row.

[ClockShot]

Girardi got the super quick hook in hand tonight.

Hughes better eat some innings. None of this merry-go-round bullshit.

[Innovator]

Girardi is doing the Torre method of pitching.

[RP]

I think Girardi is over managing right now.

[Innovator]

WHAT THE FUCK GIRARDI

[McLegend]

I think Girardi would use me if I was in the Yankee's bullpen right now.

[McLegend]

I am absolutely mortified that the same thing is going to happen to the Phillies tomorrow that is happening to the Yankees right now.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

The Yanks are only 8 Robinson Canos away from having a real strong postseason lineup.

[RP]

Lol

[Dragon]

Would have felt more comfortable with Montero hitting over A-Rod, Tex or Swisher.

[RP]

Yank are only one Arod away from being last place and broke.

[Droford]

Yankees pretty much have to score here dont they?

[Skippord]

100% sure Valverde will blow this

[McLegend]

I don't know this crowd all ready seems beaten.

[McLegend]

Uh o! Did I speak to soon?

[McLegend]

O Captain my Captain

[Supreme Olajuwon]

buenos dias
me gusta papas frias

[Testicle]

HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

[Testicle]

100% sure Valverde will blow this

:kiss:

[Skippord]

knew my reverse jinx would pay off

[Emperor Smeat]

:D Yankees lose and A-Rod being the one to end their season.

Tigers vs Rangers should be a good one with Detroit's pitching vs Texas hitting as the key matchup.

[Testicle]

YOU HAVE JUST BEEN FISTED!

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Yankees got Fisted tonight.

[Nark Order]

BYE BYE YANKEES

[Skippord]

Fister Gonna Fist

[Dragon]

Such a disappointing loss to end the season.

Not gonna get far when the whole middle of your lineup look like they've never even played baseball before though.

[Aguakate]

CC Sabathia has an "opt-out clause" after this season, right?

Not saying anything...just asking.

[Dragon]

Yeah

[Testicle]

Yes. He will probably opt out and then hold them up for a larger contract because the Yankees do not have a lot of options this off-season. The free agent pool for pitchers this year is rather shallow.

[Aguakate]

Maybe he's like "Ok, I won a ring, now I can get out of New York", and he'll just go somewhere else, to a winning team, where he's got less pressure on him and can get paid decently...

...or maybe he'll just return to NY.

[Testicle]

Yeah, no. He will take the money and pitch in New York.

[Dragon]

Yeah, I think there's a high probability he'll either be pitching with the Yankees next year or pitching with another team...

[Supreme Olajuwon]

He'd probably only leave New York to go back to Cali, and I dunno if any of those teams can afford him. Maybe Anaheim.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Theeeeeeeeeeee Yankees lose :love:

Gonna pull for the Tigers for the most part. But if the Phillies get knocked off in the first round now, this postseason was a monumental success.</font>

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Heard the Phillies are looking for starting pitching this offseason.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Sabathia's definitely coming back. He'll just get some extra money and an extra year or two.</font>

[Dragon]

I think it basically comes down to if he's happy in NY or not. Its not likely gonna be a money issue so it all depends on if he likes being there or not. But yeah, if he leaves I'm sure it'll be to a Cali team.

[wwe2222]

Here's hoping to a new 3rd basemen and right fielder next year

[Droford]

I hope to god its not a Brewers/Tigers WS

[Aguakate]

I don't think CC cares about money anymore. He's got his World Series ring, so it does come down to if he's happy in New York or not. Or, if he'd rather be in a team where he doesn't have as much pressure on him, and has a decent chance at winning but without the added pressure that pitching in NY puts on him.

[Aguakate]

I hope to god its not a Brewers/Tigers WS

A Brewers/Rangers series would be awesome.

[RP]

Did the yanks try to extend CC?

[McLegend]

I am really nervous right now.

[Aguakate]

I am really nervous right now.

Carpenter/Halladay later on tonight...

...It should be a good one.

[Testicle]

FISTER!

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I think CC will be a Yankee next year but, here's the real question will Posada?

[RP]

Can't wait to see CC opening day in Chicago.

[Dragon]

Did the yanks try to extend CC?

They haven't offered him anything past the contract he already has, they usually don't discuss extensions until deals run out.

He still has four years left on his deal after this year. He just has the option to opt out of it. I imagine they'll try to tack on another year or two to his current deal.

If he doesn't go for that he obviously doesn't wanna be there.

[Dragon]

I think CC will be a Yankee next year but, here's the real question will Posada?

Highly doubt it. Kind of sucks for him to go out like this for his last season but at least he had a good series himself. There's just no place for him with Montero.

[Aguakate]

Can't wait to see CC opening day in Chicago.

LOL dude, if that happens...

Cubs should do that, BTW. Instead of going after Pujols, go after CC and Fielder!

CUBS FTW!

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Highly doubt it. Kind of sucks for him to go out like this for his last season but at least he had a good series himself. There's just no place for him with Montero.

Well the Yankees better do 1 of 2 things. 1. Groom Montero to be a good catcher. or 2. Groom Romine to be a good catcher. With Posada maybe gone, and Martin probably more of a chance then Posada. We're kinda stuck with Montero /Cervelli unless you want to trade for another catcher.

[Aguakate]

I think CC will be a Yankee next year but, here's the real question will Posada?

I think it's almost a given that he won't be back. He even almost quit the team earlier this season, so...I don't think the Yanks will bring him back. It's sad he won't finish his career in a Yankees uniform.

My guess is he'll go DH for another team...perhaps a team like the Royals, Mariners, A's...

[Dragon]

Well the Yankees better do 1 of 2 things. 1. Groom Montero to be a good catcher. or 2. Groom Romine to be a good catcher. With Posada maybe gone, and Martin probably more of a chance then Posada. We're kinda stuck with Montero /Cervelli unless you want to trade for another catcher.

Not sure what you mean Martin probably more of a chance than Posada.

Martin's still arbitration eligible so if the Yankees want him back he'll be back for another year. Seems like a sure bet he'll be back as catcher next year.

[Aguakate]

Not sure what you mean Martin probably more of a chance than Posada.

Martin's still arbitration eligible so if the Yankees want him back he'll be back for another year. Seems like a sure bet he'll be back as catcher next year.

He probably meant to say that Martin has more of a chance of being on the team next year than Posada.

[screech]

CC does enjoy hitting. Maybe a return to the NL?

Who could afford him, though? Would the Cubs throw half their payroll at him?

[screech]

:D Yankees lose and A-Rod being the one to end their season.

Tigers vs Rangers should be a good one with Detroit's pitching vs Texas hitting as the key matchup.

I'm really looking forward to that ALCS. Interesting to see what gives.

I picked PHI/MIL NLCS, though I'm nervous the Brewers would win that. May be moot tomorrow night, though.

[RP]

CC does enjoy hitting. Maybe a return to the NL?

Who could afford him, though? Would the Cubs throw half their payroll at him?

Yes

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Now, I am even a little worried about CC joining the Cubs. And with the free agents as shitty as they are when it comes to pitching. Something tells me that the Yankees have no choice but to put together a big package and blow Seattle or another team away just to get another # 1 Starter. I really shutter to think what that could possibly mean. But, I really think we need CC right now for 2012.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>CC will bat 3rd on the days he pitches.</font>

[Innovator]

Congats Tigers, great team. Yankees sucked. At least A-Rod and Swish admitted they did, Tex is in denial.

[RP]

I think the Cubs should forget Feilder and Puljos and go get CC and CJ. That's playoffs right there.

[Innovator]

Lots of questions in the offseason, gonna be interesting.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I am utterly clueless about this thing. So I am just curious if CC goes to the Cubs do the Yankees get any picks at all? Once again I am still kinda new to this whole thing so I am just curious.

[MVP]

If the Dodgers have their shit together I can see them offering C.C. enough money to lure him out of New York. That's a big IF though.

[Triple Naitch]

Got tickets to game 5 tonight.

Halladay vs. Carpenter :drool:

[Evil Vito]

Could see the Yankees panicking and going balls out to sign Fielder, who has already said he'd have no problem being a DH.

Though if that happens, that assures A-Rod will be playing 3rd into his mid-40s for the remainder of his contract, unless they move Teixeira out of position.

[Innovator]

Yeah, Yankees need another DH.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Their offense was shit this series, but I doubt the Yankees are going to start blaming their problems on their lineup. They need starting pitching. Bad.

[OssMan]

daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa yankees win

[Innovator]

Their offense was shit this series, but I doubt the Yankees are going to start blaming their problems on their lineup. They need starting pitching. Bad.

Exactly. Girardi somehow patched together a rotation through the year with Freddie Garcia, Bartolo Colon, and a drunk Phil Hughes. I see them overpaying CJ Wilson more than overpaying Prince.

Question is whether Cashman comes back, whether CC opts out for more years, whether Swisher is around next year. Posada is done as a Yankee, unfortunately, it's just time to move on.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

Their offense was shit this series, but I doubt the Yankees are going to start blaming their problems on their lineup. They need starting pitching. Bad.

I don't think so we need more hitting then pitching. If it weren't for our hitting we would be going to the ALDS right now. I really don't think our need for starting pitching is really that big. If we over pay Prince Fielder without getting CJ Wilson I think we have all ready made ourselves a better team. We do need pitching but, right now our major problem is the middle of the lineup. ESPECIALLY A-ROD. But, on the other hand do we need Prince Fielder when we are grooming our very own Young home run hitting DH in Montero?

[DAMN iNATOR]

Their offense was shit this series, but I doubt the Yankees are going to start blaming their problems on their lineup. They need starting pitching. Bad.

While what you said is true, the Yankees' demise in the ALDS could be, and shouldbe, equally attributed to having to face an extremely talented Tigers pitching rotation (although C.C.'s ineptitude starting Game 2 and in relief in Game 5 last night didn't help matters as far as N.Y.'s pitching in the series).

I don't think so we need more hitting then pitching. If it weren't for our hitting we would be going to the ALDS right now. I really don't think our need for starting pitching is really that big. If we over pay Prince Fielder without getting CJ Wilson I think we have all ready made ourselves a better team. We do need pitching but, right now our major problem is the middle of the lineup. ESPECIALLY A-ROD. But, on the other hand do we need Prince Fielder when we are grooming our very own Young home run hitting DH in Montero?

Actually, they would have been headed to the ALCS.

[Triple Naitch]

If it weren't for their hitting, the Yankees may not have even made the playoffs.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

While what you said is true, the Yankees' demise in the ALDS could be, and shouldbe, equally attributed to having to face an extremely talented Tigers pitching rotation (although C.C.'s ineptitude starting Game 2 and in relief in Game 5 last night didn't help matters as far as N.Y.'s pitching in the series).



Actually, they would have been headed to the ALCS.

Shit! Forgot about that. The Yankees left so many people on base it was unbelievable.

[Innovator]

I don't think so we need more hitting then pitching. If it weren't for our hitting we would be going to the ALDS right now. I really don't think our need for starting pitching is really that big. If we over pay Prince Fielder without getting CJ Wilson I think we have all ready made ourselves a better team. We do need pitching but, right now our major problem is the middle of the lineup. ESPECIALLY A-ROD. But, on the other hand do we need Prince Fielder when we are grooming our very own Young home run hitting DH in Montero?

Especially A-Rod? The guy hurt all year, let's look at Teixeira. The guy sucked all year, great at tacking on stats in no pressure situations.

[McLegend]

Hey guys let's talk about the Phillies and how they are going to lose tonight.

Fuck

[ClockShot]

Fucking Girardi and his micromanaging. It ALWAYS comes back and gets him. Should have let Hughes eat a few innings then get to the bridge to Mo.

Was half awake when I saw the Swisher at-bat with bases loaded in the 7th. I'm still pissed off he swung at those 2 pitches on the outside. Could have been a tie game.

Ah well. Offseason should be interesting. I see keeping Sabathia around at the top of the to-do list. Who knows what happens after that.

[McLegend]

The same thing is going to happen to the Phillies. Same exact thing.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

The Yankees were 2nd in the majors in runs scored and 3rd in OPS. They were 1st in walks and only 16th in strikeouts. I dunno how you could even begin to place the blame on the offense, let alone think it needs upgrading.

[Evil Vito]

I don't think the Yankee offense needs upgrading...but it would be a Yankee move to go after a huge name just for the sake of it.

If Fielder went to the Yankees, I think you could conceivably draft him first in fantasy. 50+ HRs guaranteed.

[Innovator]

I don't think the Yankee offense needs upgrading...but it would be a Yankee move to go after a huge name just for the sake of it.

If Fielder went to the Yankees, I think you could conceivably draft him first in fantasy. 50+ HRs guaranteed.

No, that'd be the Red Sox, they usurped the stupid Free Agent move from the Yankees.

[Dragon]

The Yankees were 2nd in the majors in runs scored and 3rd in OPS. They were 1st in walks and only 16th in strikeouts. I dunno how you could even begin to place the blame on the offense, let alone think it needs upgrading.

The main issue should be the pitching in the offseason but I can definitely put some blame on the offense for this series.

Their offense is great but in the postseason it seems to disappear a lot and I just think it has to do with having too many all or nothing hitters. This kind of goes against everything I think in that OBP and SLG are the most important stats but at some point having so many players with low averages does hurt in the postseason.

I think some of it is mental - Teixiera is either in a huge decline at 31 or after his first year in NY he fell in love with the short porch and its screwed his swing up royally.

Like I said though, the rotation is the big issue and the thing that will be looked at in the offseason. Theres a good chance the offense won't change at all besides Posada and I'm fine with that. I still do believe you can put some of the blame on them though and I think its warranted.

[MVP]

No, that'd be the Red Sox, they usurped the stupid Free Agent move from the Yankees.

i.e. http://mt.nesn.com/.a/6a0115709f071f970b0134897b6a22970c-400wi

[Innovator]

i.e. http://mt.nesn.com/.a/6a0115709f071f970b0134897b6a22970c-400wi

http://venuist.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/angels_lackey.jpg

[Innovator]

Abiding by George Steinbrenner's credo of a championship or failure, Yankees team president Randy Levine labeled the 2011 season as unsuccessful.

"We are the Yankees," Levine told ESPNNewYork.com on Friday as he and the franchise coped with being eliminated at home in Game 5 of the ALDS by the Tigers. "That is the way The Boss set it up. When you don't win the World Series, it is a bitter disappointment and not a successful year."

I'm glad to see someone stepping in for The Boss.

[ClockShot]

This is coming from the guy who went over Cashman's head and overpaid for Raphael Soriano.

If Cashman was smart, he'd tell Levine to leave him the fuck alone if he wants to come back next season.

[McLegend]

Ugh 3.5 hours

[Droford]

Everyone of the rumor sites say that Fielder to the Orioles is the best fit but I just cant see them dishing out tons of money to Fielder. A lineup with Fielder,Reynolds,Hardy,Wieters and Jones would be interesting to watch, but without pitching its meaningless, and its a shame there aren't that many good Free Agent pitchers that will be available..CJ Wilson?

[McLegend]

Seeing George Posada cry makes me smile.

[Emperor Smeat]

Especially A-Rod? The guy hurt all year, let's look at Teixeira. The guy sucked all year, great at tacking on stats in no pressure situations.

Won't get any better with A-Rod because the Yankees still stuck with him for 6 more years and nobody wants to touch that in any deal unless the Yankees ate most of the money.

[Hardkore Kidd J]

I don't think the Yankee offense needs upgrading...but it would be a Yankee move to go after a huge name just for the sake of it.

If Fielder went to the Yankees, I think you could conceivably draft him first in fantasy. 50+ HRs guaranteed.

I actually think Fielder is gonna go to the Red Sox. I mean think about it, Big Papi is now a free agent. I think with Ortiz hitting free agency it's more likely that the Red Sox will either sign Pujols or Fielder. Cause with the Yankees they have some DH'S all ready with A-rod, Montero etc. but, the Red Sox I think it's a different story.

[Aguakate]

Everyone of the rumor sites say that Fielder to the Orioles is the best fit but I just cant see them dishing out tons of money to Fielder. A lineup with Fielder,Reynolds,Hardy,Wieters and Jones would be interesting to watch, but without pitching its meaningless, and its a shame there aren't that many good Free Agent pitchers that will be available..CJ Wilson?

The Orioles should concentrate solely on bringing in some pitching. If they leave the line-up as is, bring 2 veteran pitchers, and some relievers, they'll make things interesting.

[RoXer]

tbs sucks dick

[Droford]

The Orioles should concentrate solely on bringing in some pitching. If they leave the line-up as is, bring 2 veteran pitchers, and some relievers, they'll make things interesting.

The best pitchers available is CJ Wilson and Mark Beurhle. Neither of them really excite me for the Os to be spending a bunch of money to get them.

Also, Axfords about the blow the game..oops

[Droford]

SQUEEZE!

[RP]

Suicide squeez!!!! Unreal. Love zonas balls.

[Aguakate]

Cardinals vs Phillies starting.

I don't see how the Cardinals can beat Roy Halladay at home and in a decisive game. I mean, that's why they got him.

(As I wrote this, Furcal hit a lead-off triple)

...huh.

[McLegend]

Fuck Fuck fuck this is how I envisoned it starting.

[McLegend]

WTF CATCHERS INTERFERENCE ACTUALLY EXISTS?

[Aguakate]

LOL Nyjer Morgan will never shut up about this!

[McLegend]

That could have been worse.

[Skippord]

lol Nyjer screaming fuck yeah into the camera

love that dude

[Emperor Smeat]

Crazy ending to the Dbacks-Brewers game.

:lol: at Morgan just randomly showing up during the post-game interview swearing in joy. I don't think he even stopped swearing from the hit to finally getting interviewed.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Nyjer Morgan trolling the censors.

"FUCK YEAH! FUCK YEAH!"</font>

[McLegend]

Get the run back.

[McLegend]

Alright that inning cheers me up a little, because the Phillies actually hit 2 hard balls off Carpentar.

[McLegend]

Top of the line up. They got to get him here.

[Nicky Fives]

I love Nyjer Morgan..... I'm hoping for a Milwaukee/Philadelphia ALCS as the Blue Jays fan in me wants to see Halladay & Marcum succeed.....

[McLegend]

This isn't fun.

[McLegend]

Green light on 3-0? Really?

[Aguakate]

Chris Carpenter is ON.

So is Halladay, BTW.

[McLegend]

The Phillies really need steriods right now.

[McLegend]

Why do the Phllies always hit weak grounders to the right side in all their postseason games?

It's been the same problem for 3 fuckin years. It was the same exact thing in 07 against the Rockies? Why?

[Aguakate]

LOL look at Carpenter getting a basehit and hustling into 2nd!

[Aguakate]

Why do the Phllies always hit weak grounders to the right side in all their postseason games?

It's been the same problem for 3 fuckin years. It was the same exact thing in 07 against the Rockies? Why?

...'cause they have a lot of left-handed hitters?

[Aguakate]

Intentionally walking Pujols, who isn't hitting all that well right now, so Halladay can face Berkman (who homered against Roy in Game 1) with the bases loaded?

[McLegend]

Burkeman is gonna do some damge here.

[Aguakate]

Fat Elvis strikes out. The Puma!

[McLegend]

I would be so fuckin pumped right now if the bottom of the lineup wasn't up.

[Aguakate]

Roy is out...I saw Cliff Lee warming up...I wonder if he'll come in in the 9th?

[McLegend]

OMG this really sucks.

[McLegend]

I'm not feeling it.

[Innovator]

Howard is going deep.

[Aguakate]

Haha OMG!

Almost...

[Innovator]

Carpenter, CG shutout, Howard collapses in pain.

[Innovator]

A Cardinal is shirtless.

[McLegend]

Lol are you serious right now?

[Aguakate]

...Wow.

What a way to end this game...Cardinals celebrating, and Ryan Howard down on the ground, hurt.

[Emperor Smeat]

There goes the NL half of my WS prediction (Det-Philly) and ESPN's preseason pick for the WS (Philly-Bos).

Another year the hitting fails when the Phillies need it the most even though the pitching was great.

Brewers vs Cardinals is going to be special since both teams future could be changing although at least one would be guaranteed of reaching the WS (Fielder and Pujohls).

[Innovator]

Good to see Carpenter went to the Jeter school of interviews.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>LOL Phillies.

Yanks and Phils out in the first round. Glorious. Now I can watch the rest of the playoffs not really caring who wins.</font>

[Aguakate]

I always feel embarrassed by these latino players whenever they're interviewed after a game when they do something big. You'd think that with all the MILLIONS OF DOLLARS they earn, they could take some English classes so they wouldn't sound so dumb when they speak on national television.

[McLegend]

Atlanta Braves comparisons are going to start coming.

[Triple Naitch]

Howard tears a quad grounding out to second. :nono:

[Triple Naitch]

Great game. Halladay and Carpenter each did their jobs the best they could.

Pulling for a Rangers/Brewers finale.

[Boomer]

The Phillies beat the Braves to put the Cards in the playoffs, and then can't beat them with the best pitchers in baseball.

Might have been better off letting the Braves win that last game.

[Aguakate]

Great game. Halladay and Carpenter each did their jobs the best they could.

Pulling for a Rangers/Brewers finale.

Me too.

About this game, though, I was sure that 1-run lead the Cards had after the 1st inning wasn't going to be enough.

It's crazy that it was.

[Nark Order]

What a great post season.

[Skippord]

come on Cards/Rangers

[Nark Order]

If the Brewers win the World Series everybody has free license to get shitfaced for an entire week.

[Triple Naitch]

Amazing how much the Cardinals have been able to accomplish this season without Adam Wainwright.

[DaveWadding]

Wainwright is a pussy. Stephen Strasburg just had Tommy John surgery again 5 minutes ago and he's ready to go if needed in Game 1.

[Aguakate]

I'm pulling for a Rangers vs Brewers World Series, but I'm getting the feeling we may see a Cardinals/Tigers rematch.

[Emperor Smeat]

:lol: this year's good luck charm is a squirrel with them showing up during the St Louis vs Philly series.

Apparently, the Phillies caught one before the start of Game 5 and ended up jinxing them.

St Louis had them at their stadium but only took them out during the game when they started to tear up the field or were near home plate.

[OssMan]

Yes !

Nyjer Morgan's post game interview was tremendous !

[ClockShot]

Midwest america world series one way or another.

Might not be good for the ratings.

[Triple Naitch]

Howard might miss 2012.

[Droford]

Seven Games In September (http://www.mrdestructo.com/2011/10/seven-games-in-september-part-i.html)

really good read about the Os/Red Sox last couple of weeks..found this gem though.


Matusz pulls a muscle in his lower back and immediately ceases to be a major league pitcher. His fastball loses six miles per hour; his slider stops sliding; his curve stops curving; his changeup, well, it stays exactly the same. When Matusz returns from his lower back injury, everything out of his hand is 86 miles per hour and straight as an arrow. Scouts stare at his game tape and say he looks like a journeyman minor league pitcher.

He was supposed to be the ace, to start Opening Day. Instead, Matusz finishes the season with twelve starts, 49.2 innings pitched, and an ERA of 10.69. Due to the front office's belief that he can work through his problems, he breaks the previous modern record for season ERA by a pitcher with 10 or more starts: 10.64 in 13. That record was set in 2000; it's an impressive body of terrible, terrible work, and the pitcher, a Blue Jay, was sent down and forced to relearn all of his mechanics. The pitching coach who fixed him focused on repetition as almost a drug—repeated delivery and motion everything else following after.

That pitcher is still in the majors; to say that it is unlikely that Matusz will follow his career path understates how good the man in question is at throwing a baseball. But he shows that it's not impossible to come back from a horrific year. Of course, Phillies ace Roy Halladay has a much better nickname.

lol at Matusz finding his stuff again and pitching like Halladay next year..

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Would have been better if the ball found a hole and Berkman threw out Ryan Howard at first base to end the series.</font>

[Nark Order]

Alright, I know it's never funny when somebody gets hurt but come on. Ryan Howard pulling a Kevin Nash just about on the last play of the the last game of a playoff series.

[Emperor Smeat]

Midwest america world series one way or another.

Might not be good for the ratings.

Detroit-St. Louis would be the MLB's ideal WS for ratings out of the potential matchups because of both being relatively strong markets.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I love when the World Series (and even the Championship Series in this case) doesn't involve a HUGE market...people imply that MLB must be disappointed. I'm sure they really care that ratings might be slightly lower. It's still the World Series. Besides...what do you want them to do? Rig the playoffs?

Maybe Selig will retire a year early if the Brewers win it.</font> :shifty:

[chieflikeanindian]

Does anybody else thinks Theodore Long sounds just like Ron Washtington?? Shit tripped me out

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>And the Marlins have managed to already fuck up their beautiful new stadium by adding this horrific thing in right-center field that activates when the Marlins hit home runs:</font>

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/739480/marlins.gif

[Skippord]

I kind of love it and am disgusted by the fact that I do

[Hardkore Kidd J]

You can not be serious. That looks absolutely dreadful.

[Skippord]

god I hope it makes Slot Machine noises

[Triple Naitch]

That can't be real.

[Skippord]

the Marlin on top is awesome

HE FUCKING SPINS

[DaveWadding]

RANGERS!

[Aguakate]

Neftali Feliz, OMG.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Feliz is ridiculous. You almost HAVE to get a hit early in the count, because if it gets to 2 strikes it's an automatic K.</font>

[Aguakate]

Also, Alexei Ogando went 3-0 with a 1.something ERA against Detroit. Dude owns them, and he showed it again tonight.

With the Rangers, every game is basically a 5 or 6 inning game. After that, the bullpen takes over.

[Innovator]

Fuck it, let's go Brewers.

[ClockShot]

ALCS game 2 is off tonight due to rain. Gets bumped to monday.

Detroit can't catch a break.

[Innovator]

So far talks with Cashman are going well, both sides think a deal will be reached by the end of this week.

[ClockShot]

Good to hear.

Any BoSox or Cubs fans hear anything on Epstein. Did Boston give him the green light to talk?

[Emperor Smeat]

Only just the Cubs saying they wanted to get permission to talk to Theo and the owner hinting Theo won't always stay as just a GM forever. Theo wants to have a higher management title but not possible with the Red Sox.



So far talks with Cashman are going well, both sides think a deal will be reached by the end of this week.

A bit surprised he keeps wanting to come back with all the "trashing" and rumors of getting fired he gets every year from management/fans and him usually hinting it could be his last year or wants to move on in the near future.

[ClockShot]

Even with the 2010-'11 offseason and the trade deadline people were bitching and moaning that he didn't grab anybody "big". In reality, it worked out. But come on, the 2009 campaign sealed the deal.

As I said on the last page, Levine going over his head and "forcing" him to sign Soriano just so we got a "big name" during the offseason probably pissed him off.

[owenbrown]

bunch of pissed off people on the MLB site because they postponed game 2 of the ALCS yet there is no rain anywhere near Arlington

[RP]

Apparently it's being reported Theo was spotted in Chicago. Buster Olney just said if he gets the right offer, he's gone.

[Innovator]

I'd jump at the chance if I was Tito, if I could end the curse for the Cubs I wouldn't have to pay for anything in the city again.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah, if Theo and Tito ended another curse, they'd probably become instant Hall of Famers just for that. They'd also probably be able to travel around Chicago on thrones.</font>

[screech]

Free deep dish pizza for life?

[Aguakate]

I'd jump at the chance if I was Tito, if I could end the curse for the Cubs I wouldn't have to pay for anything in the city again.

I wonder how Boston feels about him today, even after he ended their curse and gave them an extra Title.

They probably would still be like "Terry's a faaaaaaggot".

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Yeah Boston fans gave him the boot and Cubs fans are 7 million time more faggoty than Red Sox fans.

[screech]

Between the Chicago teams, I definitely prefer the White Sox.

[ClockShot]

Detroit/Texas is going into extras.

[Triple Naitch]

Can't believe the Rangers stranded bases loaded with no outs.

[Triple Naitch]

Sick walkoff grand slam by Nelly Cruz.

[ClockShot]

Unless Detroit got an extra Verlander on ice somewhere, the Tigers are in trouble me thinks.

[Triple Naitch]

Tigers have been screwed on days that Verlander pitches. Each time he has started, it rained limiting his innings and killing their chances.

[Aguakate]

Milwaukee fans don't deserve to see the Brewers go to the World Series.

Did they get their asses kicked tonight? Yeah. But for the fans to get up and leave, with their team playing in Game 2 of the NLCS, at home, is ridiculous.

[Triple Naitch]

At least they showed up, unlike in St. Petersburg.

[Emperor Smeat]

Yeah at least in Milwaukee's defense, the Cardinals hammered the Brewers early on in comparison to the Rays who have struggled to sell out their playoff games the past 3 times they've made the playoffs.

Its not just Tampa but more of a Florida problem because even the Marlins had problems and those were World Series title years.

[ClockShot]

MLBTR is reporting the Cubs and Theo Epstein are close to a deal and something might get announced within a day or two. Boston is looking for something big to come back their way if they're gonna let Theo walk.

[Triple Naitch]

Come on....Starlin Castro.

[Triple Naitch]

Ben Cherington will probably take over for Theo if it goes through. Can't really say it's an absolute huge loss as Cherington has worked under him for a long time and probably learned some of his traits. I've heard Theo wanted to get promoted beyond GM, but those positions are filled long-term.

[ClockShot]

Also from MLBTR.

Baltimore has gathered 6 names for their GM opening. They are: Josh Byrnes of the Padres, Gerry Hunsicker of the Rays, J.P. Ricciardi of the Mets, Thad Levine of the Rangers, Tony LaCava of the Blue Jays and Dan Jennings of the Marlins. They all got an equal shot to be president of baseball operations as well.

Former Reds GM Wayne Krivsky, Yankees scouting director Damon Oppenheimer, Phillies assistant GM Scott Proefrock and Rangers senior director of player development Scott Servais are also possible candidates.

[RP]

what a fucking clutch hit that was by Cabrera.

[RP]

It really looks like Epstein is coming to the Cubs. Wow.

[RP]

Quade probably packing his clothes right now.

[RP]

Doug Fister has been fucking epic

[Emperor Smeat]

MLBTR is reporting the Cubs and Theo Epstein are close to a deal and something might get announced within a day or two. Boston is looking for something big to come back their way if they're gonna let Theo walk.

Chicago gets:
Theo Epstein

Boston gets:
The green ivy wall

:shifty:

[DaveWadding]

Epstein/Sandberg 2012

[RP]

Epstein/Sandberg 2012

Fuck yah!

I'm going to opening day next year I hope. Think it s against the Nationals, which means Strasburg

[RoXer]

Brian Wilson's relentless chalupa hawking

[Aguakate]

Epstein/Sandberg 2012

Fuck yah!

I'm going to opening day next year I hope. Think it s against the Nationals, which means Strasburg

I'd prefer Theo bringing in Ryne Sandberg, than a Theo/Tito reunion in Chicago...yet I have a feeling that as soon as Theo joins the Cubs, people will start asking if Terry Francona will follow him.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Hey Tito I know you won two World Series, but we're gonna go with the rookie. Hope you understand!

[Evil Vito]

Epstein to the Cubs. 5 years, $15 million.

[MVP]

Hopefully the Red Sox get some prospects out of this and not just cash. John Henry and the organization aren't exactly strapped for money.

[Innovator]

Hey Chicago waddya say sabremetrics in your town today

[Triple Naitch]

Anybody else notice the Rangers growing Amish playoff beards?

[Innovator]

Buster Olney really thinks the Yankees are gonna make a play for Joey Votto.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

And all it'll cost you is the low low price of Nova, Hughes, Robertson and Gardner! How could you pass that up? You don't need pitchers! You need hitters!

[Innovator]

How about Joba and a ham sandwich?

[screech]

And all it'll cost you is the low low price of Nova, Hughes, Robertson and Gardner! How could you pass that up? You don't need pitchers! You need hitters!

They can't sign fast enough!

[screech]

How about Joba and a ham sandwich?

If it's Tavern Ham I think they'd go for it.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I highly doubt the Yankees or anybody is going to trade for Votto this offseason. He's still under contract for two more years.

I suspect that Votto's name will be thrown out repeatedly by teams trying to sign Pujols and Fielder as a way to saturate the market and lower their asking prices.

[Innovator]

Good to see the Boston owners didn't throw anyone under the bus upon leaving town.

[Innovator]

And apparently Lester, Beckett, and Lackey all love the fried chicken. And video games. And beers. During games.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

I always wondered why players got fat when they went to the Red Sox. Makes sense.

[MVP]

They must be the ones keeping the Popeye's across from Fenway in business.

[Skippord]

How about Joba and a ham sandwich?
Joba would eat the sandwich long before they got to Cincinnati

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The Marlins are reportedly looking to sign a superstar or two this offseason, however they do not want to commit to long contracts. As such, it's being said that they are mulling giving out the first ever 3-year, $100 million contract.

God that would be so hilariously stupid.</font>