The first of two mini-series against those guys from the 2003 and 2004 ALCS concludes today with Roy Halladay against Bronson Arroyo.
Lineups:
Cat
Zaun
Hillenbrand
Koskie
Wells
Hinske
Rios
Hudson
Adams
Damon
Nixon
Ramirez
Ortiz
Millar
Renteria
Varitek
Vazquez
Bellhorn
Cat
Zaun
Hillenbrand
Koskie
Wells
Hinske
Rios
Hudson
Adams
Damon
Nixon
Ramirez
Ortiz
Millar
Renteria
Varitek
Vazquez
Bellhorn
After reading about Gibbons' comments that Shea is such a hustle guy, his not reaching second on that dropped pop-up cost the Jays a run. I hope Koskie's basehit is a sign of things to come.
Anyone know why Hinske is at DH while Koskie & Hillenbrand are in the field?
I'm not sure Hillenbrand would've made second base on the popup. I'd have to watch it again though. You figure it takes a guy like him 8-9 seconds or so to get to second. If he kept on going, he may have been thrown out. But I could be wrong.
Manny hits it onto the Pike. Wow.
Manny hits it onto the Pike. Wow.
I was thinking the same thing Dr. Zarco. If he had jogged lightly, he would have been standing on second base and he would have scored on the Koskie base hit.
Upon further review, Manny didn't quite reach the Pike with his homer. But he still hit it over the light tower over the Monster. Mighty impressive.
With the exception of one horribly hung curve, Doc has looked pretty good so far. I would guess the Jays only need 3 to win this one.
Wells is looking lost at the plate again. Keeps getting himself into 0-2 counts so far.
hinske, on the other hand, has had two very nice at bats so far.
that is fantastic defense.
that could have been a very very dangerous situation, and now it's all clear.
defense is important.
that could have been a very very dangerous situation, and now it's all clear.
defense is important.
3 pitches, 3 outs for Doc in the 4th. The perfect inning. What a terrific play by Koskie and Hudson on that DP. I think Manny might have loafed it a tad. I'm not sure I've ever seen a 5-4-3 DP where the third baseman had to dive-let alone Manny being out by about 2.5 steps.
I don't know if the numbers would point to it, but it seems like the Jays are getting a lot more 5-4-3 double plays this year.
It seemed with Hinske at third they never were able to turn it.
It seemed with Hinske at third they never were able to turn it.
That was one heck of a double play. Another quick inning for Halladay.
I like how Manny was out by a couple steps. What hussle that guy displays every night.
Rough call there. I guess Diaz forgot that ties go to the runner. Great reaction by Zaun though.
It's a misconception that a tie goes to the runner.
Halladay's on pace to go about 11 innings tonight. It's about time the Jays offense gets to Arroyo here. More Jays leather that inning with Adams showin' it off.
I'm listening to Gameday Audio right now. I really like Joe Costiglione from WEEI. He's positive, upbeat and enthusiastic when either team makes a great play.
He doesn't have that Harwell/Scully "magic," but if everyone called games like this, nobody would complain. One weird tidbit: He sounds eerily like Van Miller, former radio voice of the Buffalo Bills.
He doesn't have that Harwell/Scully "magic," but if everyone called games like this, nobody would complain. One weird tidbit: He sounds eerily like Van Miller, former radio voice of the Buffalo Bills.
All right. We're square again. Great game for Koskie - two hits including a homer and a great defensive play.
Vernon has gotten two pitches low and away and has hit them both weakly. Both pitches were probably balls. Until he starts using right field consistently no pitcher is going to fear pitching to him.
Doc's good for about 12 innings tonight if he can keep this pace up. 56 pitches through 6.
Does anyone else think Jim Joyce is the best plate umpire in baseball? Pitchers get every call they deserve, and no calls they don't deserve. And his games seem to move at a much crisper pace.
It's a misconception that a tie goes to the runner.
It's a misconception that there are ties.
Doc pitching a complete game would be....well, just what the Doctor ordered after the amount of work the bullpen had yesterday and the day before, and considering the team's next day off isnt 'til next Monday.
I just cannot believe they pitched around Ramirez to pitch to Ortiz. That was the most ridiculous strategy I've ever seen.
Leigh, that was my point. Perhaps it could have been better expressed.
That HR is annoying for a few reasons. First, why did Doc so blatantly pitch around Manny-that's what happens. Secondly, the 1-2 pitch to Ortiz was absolutely a strike, it has been all night. Argh
Sheesh. He goes right after Renteria with great pitches. Why not just make those pitches to Ramirez and Ortiz and instead of being afraid of them?
Whether or not it was a strike in our opinion doesn't matter. The umpire decided it was a ball and the at bat continued. You can't pitch around Manny Ramirez assuming you're going to strike out Ortiz. It is insane to give up free baserunners in a tie game. Especially to a powerful lineup. Stupid pitching there.
That was unexpected.
I'll take it! Vernon hits a 2-run shot.
I'll take it! Vernon hits a 2-run shot.
the fighting jays, folks.
(GREAT game from koskie today).
(GREAT game from koskie today).
And now the defensive subs for the Red Sox look a little silly. When Manny's spot comes up in the bottom of the 9th, I'll be thanking Francona.
I bet Francona is kicking himself for taking out Millar and Man-Ram.
I know we've been told that Rios' power will come, but when?
Tabler makes a good point.
Hinske on 1st, no out, tie game, 8th inning.....there's the time for smallball.
Hinske on 1st, no out, tie game, 8th inning.....there's the time for smallball.
The Mrs. Hank Photo Blessing (first Shea, now Vernon) is frighteningly powerful. Can we put up a team photo for tomorrow night's Yankee game, or is that asking for too much?
Boy, Tabler's on fire tonight. Discussion of batting average on balls in play? Amazing! Kind of ruined it by saying Bellhorn's only problem is that he walks too much though.
The Mrs. Hank Photo Blessing (first Shea, now Vernon) is frighteningly powerful. Can we put up a team photo for tomorrow night's Yankee game, or is that asking for too much?
We must respect its powers and only use it for single players/coaches who are going throuigh slumps ;)
Hey NFH, you got a picture of J.P?
Whats this intentional walk business? He's got him at 2-2 and it makes nooooooo sense.
Note to self: Never, ever praise umpires.
There's only downside.
There's only downside.
Why in the heck are they messing with Roy's rhythm by going out to talk to him about whether he wants to pitch around Nixon? Let him freaking pitch to Nixon, it's a 2-2 count.
Make the call now - Roy's at 100 pitches....do you bring him in for the 9th, facing Ortiz?
My plan is to bring in Batista with a 5-3 lead. Easier said than done, of course.
He's thrown a lot of pitches the last 2 innings. I'd bring in Batista even if it's still a tie game.
Yes, I keep him in there. Regardless of whether the Jays score or not.
Whats the deal with Halladay struggling so mightily with Ortiz? ITs understandable considering Ortiz's ability but maybe Ortiz is too comfortable in there.
Doc's obviously displeased with how that all went down. I didn't like it much either, but it worked. I like that he was talking it over with Gibbons instead of sulking or throwing a temper tantrum like some players would.
I would bring him back for the ninth.
I would bring him back for the ninth.
No joy for Russ. Just foul going right field pole.
I don't think you bring Doc back in the 9th. At 100 pitches, coming off a season cut short by arm troubles, with a CG in the last start.....it's time for Batista.
frankie could have pulled away from that one, but he hung in there. good stuff.
a fullscreen commercial in the middle of an inning? That's rather jarring and annoying. Especially in the ninth inning of a tie game.
does francona get the last laugh with the payton sub?
I really don't like that call sending Reed home!!! There's only 1 out and you have your cleanup hitter coming up!! Dang it!
Nice throw from Payton. Johnson didn't even come close to scoring.
Oh god. No way Manny makes that play at the plate...
I can't agree with Tabler that you have to send the runner there. Moreover, it was a bit of an ugly slide. He jammed his left hand into the dirt, and never got it back in front of his body.
That could be the dumbest move I've ever seen... ever.
Butterfield, you ARE playing at Fenway, just in case you forgot.
Butterfield, you ARE playing at Fenway, just in case you forgot.
A base hit here would be the perfect capper to Koskie's best game as a Jay.
one helluva game for koskie!
do we have his stats splits for DH/3B duties?
do we have his stats splits for DH/3B duties?
I'm going to change my handle to Gardiner Kreskin!!!!
What a day from Koskie. The out at home doesn't sting quite as much.
Nice throw? Considering how close Peyton is to home plate in left, that was a terrible throw. That play should have been routine, but his throw was way up the 1st base line.
Ok. We get to see Batista in a 1 run game against Boston. Please Miguel have your command today.
Batista for the save.
Ortiz up 1st.
This is one helluva test for our "closer".
Ortiz up 1st.
This is one helluva test for our "closer".
I really don't like that call sending Reed home!!! There's only 1 out and you have your cleanup hitter coming up!! Dang it!
I agree with you. If Reed stops at third, Koskie at least has a sac fly situation, and a basehit could probably score two. I didn't think Reed had a chance at scoring as soon as I saw him rounding third. Bad move, even though the Jays ended up scoring anyways.
Is there anyone else that Gibby would put in to close?
If Butterfield had had a bit more sense and held Reed, we could've had a 2 run cushion for Miguel. Instead, I'm worried.
I'm sticking with Tabler on that call to send Sparky home.
Their on the road, playing for win, plus the chance that it may be your only chance.
Although Koskie and Wells were coming up...
Their on the road, playing for win, plus the chance that it may be your only chance.
Although Koskie and Wells were coming up...
I might have gotten Shoeneweiss ready for Ortiz at least.
Just have to chime in on that terrible call from Butterfield. Payton was nearly on the infield dirt and Reid was just hitting 3b... he might have been able to throw with his left hand and still get him.
Their on the road, playing for win, plus the chance that it may be your only chance.
I don't agree. All Koskie would have to do is hit a medium fly ball, and Johnson scores on a sac fly. I don't see how it was their "only chance."
Moot point though now. Batista gets Ortiz and I stop sweating a little bit. :)
why do I get the feeling that this makes or breaks Miggy's career as a "closer"?
ANOTHER garbage call on a key strikeout.
who was praising this joker behind the plate today?
who was praising this joker behind the plate today?
I like the principle of the call to send Sparky home, but when you look and see just where Payton fielded the ball.....not so much. He looked like he was practically in the infield and had thrown the ball almost before Reed rounded third base.
Great try by Adams on the McCarty infield single but does Johnny Mac make that play?
That damn Fenway crowd - STOP GIVING ME HEART ATTACKS.
I hate it when I repeat things that others have already said. Need to post quicker ;)
It's the nature of closing, jsut. This is the classic high-leverage situation!
GOOD SHOW!
An amazing game - heart attacks along the way, but that's the way an entertaining game goes. Solid start from Roy and Batista, while bumpy, gets the job done and that's what counts.
Koskie is officially back on, and things are looking up once more after that short slide by the team.
An amazing game - heart attacks along the way, but that's the way an entertaining game goes. Solid start from Roy and Batista, while bumpy, gets the job done and that's what counts.
Koskie is officially back on, and things are looking up once more after that short slide by the team.
and we haven't lost a series yet
miguel pulls through
miguel pulls through
Hey, champs! Enjoy third place!
(He said, still trembling).
(He said, still trembling).
Phew! Gotta love Batista. Always scares the crap out of you, but usually gets it done. By the end of the year, he'll have the highest WHIP in the league and the lowest ERA. :)
key win.
stop the losing streak.
still haven't lost a series.
Roy the stopper (in fenway no less).
Right back into 1st or 2nd place.
finish the road trip with a winning record (5-4).
and a nice close from Batista in as pressured a situation as an april game can give you.
that's a sweet win all around. it would have been a tough, tough loss if we didn't pull it out.
stop the losing streak.
still haven't lost a series.
Roy the stopper (in fenway no less).
Right back into 1st or 2nd place.
finish the road trip with a winning record (5-4).
and a nice close from Batista in as pressured a situation as an april game can give you.
that's a sweet win all around. it would have been a tough, tough loss if we didn't pull it out.
Thank the heavens!
Sadly I missed 99.9% of the game, but what a tense (but nice!) surprise to home to. Huge, huge win for the Jays, and judging by the box score and this thread, they really had to work for it.
Sadly I missed 99.9% of the game, but what a tense (but nice!) surprise to home to. Huge, huge win for the Jays, and judging by the box score and this thread, they really had to work for it.
GOOD SHOW!
An amazing game - heart attacks along the way, but that's the way an entertaining game goes. Solid start from Roy and Batista, while bumpy, gets the job done and that's what counts.
Koskie is officially back on, and things are looking up once more after that short slide by the team.
An amazing game - heart attacks along the way, but that's the way an entertaining game goes. Solid start from Roy and Batista, while bumpy, gets the job done and that's what counts.
Koskie is officially back on, and things are looking up once more after that short slide by the team.
Most enjoyable game I've watched in the Ricciardi era. Bring on the Yankees!!!!
I'm not sure if Mac makes that play. He throws more accurately but his throws from the hole tend to have a lot of arc to them. He doesn't have a cannon arm like Rollins or Furcal. It would have been a really tough play for him as well.
An absolutely tremendous victory. Come from behind, big start from Halladay, Vernon and Koskie play well, Batista gives us a heart attack, but saves it anyway. Oh yeah, and a triumph over the World Champs.
Doh - a million apologies for the double post. My computer shall receive forty lashes.
On a relevant note, this is a great tone for the team to come back home for.
As a semi-relevant note, I may have found a replacement for the O-drum. Stay tuned.
On a relevant note, this is a great tone for the team to come back home for.
As a semi-relevant note, I may have found a replacement for the O-drum. Stay tuned.
What a terrific game. Great starting pitching from both sides, 4 HR's, a few comebacks and a bottom of the 9th heartache! Great, great win.
A 5-and-4 road trip through Oakland, Texas, and Boston and 3 gutsy, character wins now against the defending World Series Champions. This team just finds a way to win. Man, I'm stoked!!! What a nice change from last year.
JP said at the start of the year he'd be happy to go 6-6 on the road with twelve of the first 15 games on the road. Well JP, the boys have managed to go 7-5. What a terrific month so far.
my first post-great game. Pitching, dee and some cluth hitting.
I'm not sure if Mac makes that play.
I think the more interesting question is whether Hinske picks that out of the dirt. (of course he would have been safe anyway)
Nice win!
I love it when the Jays beat the Sox or the Yanks, it's oh so sweet. It makes up for all those losses that last placed clubs endure...well not really, but it feels that way right after a good game.
The icing on the cake: D-Rays 6, Yanks 2
The icing on the cake: D-Rays 6, Yanks 2
I'd say Johnny Mac does make that play, he gets to his feet after diving for a ball faster than anyone I've EVER seen.
I'd also have to say that Shea is better at scooping balls than Hinske is so far this year.
I'd also have to say that Shea is better at scooping balls than Hinske is so far this year.
All I have to say is hats off to Doc for an OUTSTANDING game. The fact that he had only thrown 56 pitches through 6 against the world champs is amazing. He definitely deserved the hard fought W tonight.
Also, hats off to Russ Adams and Shea Hillenbrand for having GREAT nights in the field. Scott Hatteberg has been robbed of his nickname 'The Pickin Machine'. Hillenbrand was pickin em left and right tonight, and he definitely deserves credit.
But finally, Corey Koskie was the STAR of the day. If he were a Yankee, he definitely would have "earned his stripes" tonight.
Good job boys, Butterfield is probably the happiest guy on the planet.
Also, hats off to Russ Adams and Shea Hillenbrand for having GREAT nights in the field. Scott Hatteberg has been robbed of his nickname 'The Pickin Machine'. Hillenbrand was pickin em left and right tonight, and he definitely deserves credit.
But finally, Corey Koskie was the STAR of the day. If he were a Yankee, he definitely would have "earned his stripes" tonight.
Good job boys, Butterfield is probably the happiest guy on the planet.
I'll say only this: John Gibbons looks like a genius as manager. He's so intuitive and so far everything has been coming up roses for him. From moving Vernon down the order, to order the intentional walk on Trot Nixon (like he had it in his mind that Halladay might throw a wild pitch next).
And how about pitching Batista for that nothing inning in Texas? It kept him sharp for today.
Some things have been odd; i.e. John MacDonald pinch hitting, Vernon sitting during a crucial PH situation against Texas on Sunday. But who knows how much good that day off did Vernon? He homered today.
It's interesting to see how he handles Halladay. Halladay seems like a tough guy to manage. He's super competitive, which is great; but he also likes to call his own shots.
And think how seamless he's getting everyone playing. Remember in the off-season there was a lot of boo-hooing around here about we have too many position players; it looks like everyone's getting chances to hit, to field (and how good is Shea with the glove? Very impressive), and to come in the game right when they can do their best.
So far, high marks for Gibbons. He's the anti-Tosca for our times.
And how about pitching Batista for that nothing inning in Texas? It kept him sharp for today.
Some things have been odd; i.e. John MacDonald pinch hitting, Vernon sitting during a crucial PH situation against Texas on Sunday. But who knows how much good that day off did Vernon? He homered today.
It's interesting to see how he handles Halladay. Halladay seems like a tough guy to manage. He's super competitive, which is great; but he also likes to call his own shots.
And think how seamless he's getting everyone playing. Remember in the off-season there was a lot of boo-hooing around here about we have too many position players; it looks like everyone's getting chances to hit, to field (and how good is Shea with the glove? Very impressive), and to come in the game right when they can do their best.
So far, high marks for Gibbons. He's the anti-Tosca for our times.
The 6-5 loss at Texas on Sunday laid a foundation for this very satisfying win.
I love games that Halladay pitches. They always move along crisply.
The bonus of going 8 innings is that the bullpen, with the exception of Batista of course, got a full day's rest after consectutive games where the starter got bombed early.
The bonus of going 8 innings is that the bullpen, with the exception of Batista of course, got a full day's rest after consectutive games where the starter got bombed early.
Koskie earned his wings. Or his maple syrup. Or toque.
Mac does have great range and very quick feet and actions but eventhough he gets to his feet quickly from what I've seen he doesn't plant to throw a seed to first. Instead he throws off balance as he's getting up with a lot of arc so the throw tends to take a little extra time to get there. On that play I don't think he would have made it unless you argue that he would have had a better jump on the ball and wouldn't have had to dive for it.
I'm not sure Adams could have done anything better except nailing Shea in the chest with a seed. That's a play where having a cannon arm like Rollins has would have made the difference but I don't think Mac has that kind of arm.
Mac does have great range and very quick feet and actions but eventhough he gets to his feet quickly from what I've seen he doesn't plant to throw a seed to first. Instead he throws off balance as he's getting up with a lot of arc so the throw tends to take a little extra time to get there. On that play I don't think he would have made it unless you argue that he would have had a better jump on the ball and wouldn't have had to dive for it.
I'm not sure Adams could have done anything better except nailing Shea in the chest with a seed. That's a play where having a cannon arm like Rollins has would have made the difference but I don't think Mac has that kind of arm.
Fenway fixed Wells, Hudson, and Koskie, big time.
Bring on the Bombers!
Bring on the Bombers!
Do you see Gibbons as making moves to assert his authority?
Today - Halladay didn't want to intentionally walk Nixon when he was asked to, and was subsequently removed for the 9th
Sunday - Vernon not playing to his ability, possibly preoccupied with being around friends and family in Arlington, sits the final game in Texas. (That Vernon wasn't even used to pinch hit in that game tells me that move was on principle.)
My guess is that Gibbons is a buddy-buddy kinda guy and that players may neglect to observe his authority, and that's what some of these moves are partially about.
Today - Halladay didn't want to intentionally walk Nixon when he was asked to, and was subsequently removed for the 9th
Sunday - Vernon not playing to his ability, possibly preoccupied with being around friends and family in Arlington, sits the final game in Texas. (That Vernon wasn't even used to pinch hit in that game tells me that move was on principle.)
My guess is that Gibbons is a buddy-buddy kinda guy and that players may neglect to observe his authority, and that's what some of these moves are partially about.
Most enjoyable game I've watched in the Ricciardi era.
I hate exams.
Russ Adams made a very nice play on that ball in the 9th inning and I don't for a second think that MacDonald makes the play. But, I wonder why MacDonald wasn't brought in as a defensive replacement in the 9th inning of a one-run game? If it's automatic (and it has been so far) that Sparky comes in for Cat in that situation, then I think MacDonald has to go in too. In fact, I would argue that the difference in defense from Adams to Johnny Mac is far more appreciable than Cat to Sparky. It's been argued a lot in the last few days that MacDonald should not be used as a pinch hitter and I completely agree, but if you're not going to use his glove in a one-run game in the ninth inning, what's he doing taking up a roster spot? His defense and mentoring of Adams (which goes on behind the scenes) are the reasons he's on this team.
Do you see Gibbons as making moves to assert his authority... My guess is that Gibbons is a buddy-buddy kinda guy and that players may neglect to observe his authority, and that's what some of these moves are partially about.
That's a good point, although I think Halladay would have come out anyway since the top of the inning was fairly long. As for Wells, I think you are on to something.
For the record I didn't like the idea of intentionally walking Nixon. You don't have to give him much to hit, but with two strikes I would much rather give yourself a chance to get the K.
If you watch the play again, Russ gets to the ball pretty easily but he doesn't rise up to his feet very quickly at all, and wastes a lot of time. IMO JMac makes that play b/c of the time he gains from getting to his feet so easy; that's just my opinion though.
I thought about the defensive sub in the 9th as well, but I didn't think of it until AFTER the play...so who am I to judge Gibbons.
I thought about the defensive sub in the 9th as well, but I didn't think of it until AFTER the play...so who am I to judge Gibbons.
I didn't think he wasted much time at all. He did the right thing and set his feet as he got up to make a strong, low throw. He couldn't have done it much faster.
His only other play would have been to bounce up and rush the throw before he fully has his feet under him. That's the kind of throw MacDonald tends to make and although he's fairly accurate with the extra arc the ball would have taken there was no way he would have got the runner at first. Adams' throw would have been bang bang if Shea had been able to pick it.
His only other play would have been to bounce up and rush the throw before he fully has his feet under him. That's the kind of throw MacDonald tends to make and although he's fairly accurate with the extra arc the ball would have taken there was no way he would have got the runner at first. Adams' throw would have been bang bang if Shea had been able to pick it.
If it's automatic (and it has been so far) that Sparky comes in for Cat in that situation, then I think MacDonald has to go in too.I disagree. The difference between Mac making a play that Adams can't VS Sparky making a play that Cat can't, is that the play Sparky makes in most cases saves you extra bases, whereas a play that Mac makes and Adams does not, is probably only a single.
I'm not a big fan of replacing your SS late in the game just for defensive reasons. If you're a SS in the big leagues, you're there for your glove and if you can hit that's a bonus. Plus, by the 9th inning your starting SS should be really sharp (and Adams looked sharp all game); putting in a defensive replacement in the 9th inning always creates the potential that the player isn't ready for when the ball screams to him. There's a lot of risk and the return is minimal. Let's not forget, that's not Chris Woodward out there; that would change everything.
...not to mention the rhythm the SS builds with the second baseman all night that's suddenly disrupted for a "defensive improvement".
Further to the Gibbons kudos, I think he's done a terrific job thus far of using his whole roster. He's keeping everyone sharp and just seems to be pushing the right buttons.
If you don't change your SS late in the game, then why is J-Mac on the squad? Back up SS? Menechino fits that bill.
Adams in all likelihood is going to make 30 errors this year. He's precisely the player that in a one-run game in the ninth inning that you substitute "your glove man" MacDonald in for. If Adams sails a throw into the seats tonight, the Jays would have at least surrendered the lead and quite likely lost. If you aren't going to use him in that situation, then answer why MacDonald is on this team? If you're not going to use a defensive replacement in a close game and use the argument that a SS at the majors is a good enough defensive player to finish the game, then MacDonald is redundant and doesn't need to be on this team. His roster spot would be much better used by a Gabe Gross or an Eric Crozier who provide a legitimate bat off the bench. MacDonald would be redundant becuase Mini-me hits lefties well and can play SS once a week.
(For the record, I firmly believe MacDonald should be on this team and should be used as a late inning defensive replacement and get a start once every 10 days to spell Adams against a tough lefty like Santana, Johnson, etc.)
(For the record, I firmly believe MacDonald should be on this team and should be used as a late inning defensive replacement and get a start once every 10 days to spell Adams against a tough lefty like Santana, Johnson, etc.)
I couldn't have said it better...even the bottom part. I believe McDonald should be on the team as well, I just don't see how you don't use him if he is on the team.
The other side of the coin is that you don't want to pull your rookie SS in every critical situation this year.
My apologies for the off-topic post.
Is anybody else still waiting for their Starpass(es) to arrive? Ordered 26th March, told to give names at the box office when I picked up opener tickets... went to the box office and they had my pass but told me to call and give the names for the others and said they would be mailed out.
Called my Jays rep three weeks ago Thursday, left a message detailing the other names. My call has not been returned and I have not received my passes. The passes have also not been charged to my Visa yet.
6-4-3 and I were hoping to catch the Yankees this week but without passes... I've left another message with our Jays rep tonight. Anybody else still waiting?
Is anybody else still waiting for their Starpass(es) to arrive? Ordered 26th March, told to give names at the box office when I picked up opener tickets... went to the box office and they had my pass but told me to call and give the names for the others and said they would be mailed out.
Called my Jays rep three weeks ago Thursday, left a message detailing the other names. My call has not been returned and I have not received my passes. The passes have also not been charged to my Visa yet.
6-4-3 and I were hoping to catch the Yankees this week but without passes... I've left another message with our Jays rep tonight. Anybody else still waiting?
I agree with that too BC Mike, but you still haven't answered the previous question?.
I have been a little disappointed about Adams usage so far this year. I completely agree with what Jordan and a few others have been harping on in the last few days about MacDonald being used as a pinch hitter for Adams almost automatically as soon as a lefty is called into the game. That shouldn't happen at all, yet it's been a trend on this road trip. I think Adams deserves the chance and should be starting against most lefties. I don't expect him to start against the Santana and Randy Johnson's of the world, but there's no reason he shouldn't be given the opportunity to face the Kenny Rogers (like last week) and Jamie Moyer's of the world just because they are left handed.
I have been a little disappointed about Adams usage so far this year. I completely agree with what Jordan and a few others have been harping on in the last few days about MacDonald being used as a pinch hitter for Adams almost automatically as soon as a lefty is called into the game. That shouldn't happen at all, yet it's been a trend on this road trip. I think Adams deserves the chance and should be starting against most lefties. I don't expect him to start against the Santana and Randy Johnson's of the world, but there's no reason he shouldn't be given the opportunity to face the Kenny Rogers (like last week) and Jamie Moyer's of the world just because they are left handed.
Hi Stargurl,
I went to Gate 9, they just had a second one with my name on it (the guy said it was supposed to be "Guest", oh well). They didn't even tell me it would be there.
Anyhow, I think you need to get on their cases about the second free one. They'll give it to you, but it's probably bottom priority for them if you don't make yourself a pain the rear. I think Mike Hook is the top of the ladder in that office.
I went to Gate 9, they just had a second one with my name on it (the guy said it was supposed to be "Guest", oh well). They didn't even tell me it would be there.
Anyhow, I think you need to get on their cases about the second free one. They'll give it to you, but it's probably bottom priority for them if you don't make yourself a pain the rear. I think Mike Hook is the top of the ladder in that office.
I agree with that too BC Mike, but you still haven't answered the previous question?.
Is the other question why is Mac on the team?
I'm with you on how Adams has been pulled too much in favour of the L/R matchup(but I'll give Gibbons the benefit of the doubt for now, since almost everygame has been close). As for why Mac is on the team I would ask, would you rather have Chris Woodward's bat, or John MacDonald's glove? I'd take Mac's glove and use one of the bullpen spots for the 5th outfielder/utility infielder.
Basically without an extra bat on the bench, the reward of defensive replacements is often overshadowed by the risk of diminishing your offence in crucial situations.
the reward of defensive replacements is often overshadowed by the risk of diminishing your offence in crucial situations.
As we saw tonight with Jay Payton batting for Manny Ramirez in the 9th with runners on the corners.
I've been lurking for awhile now but haven't said anything since the format was changed. Now I got something to talk about. I too am having all kinds of trouble with the starpasses. Like yourself, only one of the passes was ready, that is the one with my name on it, and none of the rest were. I called them up yesterday and was told they have to send away to get them made, and that hopefully the rest of mine were coming early next week. If you have the names of other people on the other ones they should be in the system (thats what I was told), and that they should be able to just show some ID and get their tickets.
the reward of defensive replacements
As it turns out, Francona says that Ramirez' thigh tightened up and he came out to get it iced.
Blue Jays roster move, from mlb.com:
Following their victory Tuesday, the Jays optioned right-handed reliever Brandon League, who allowed three hits, two walks and two runs Monday in 2 2/3 innings, to Triple-A Syracuse and purchased the contract of Matt Whiteside.
Thanks, guys... glad I'm not the only one.
I went to Gate 9, they just had a second one with my name on it (the guy said it was supposed to be "Guest", oh well). They didn't even tell me it would be there.
I figured that might be the case.
Another pass question: when I was at the box office she was saying that the other three passes (we ordered four in total) may just be sent out all in my name. If this happens, how are the other three people expected to pick tickets up? We certainly won't always be attending games together.
We'll see if I get a call tomorrow or not. Who knows!
"As for why Mac is on the team I would ask, would you rather have Chris Woodward's bat, or John MacDonald's glove? I'd take Mac's glove and use one of the bullpen spots for the 5th outfielder/utility infielder."
I agree, I already said that MacDonald should be one this team. But, if your answer to your own question is MacDonald's glove, I still don't understand how you don't advocate putting him in as a defensive replacement in a one run game. You said yourself that Mac's on the team because of his glove, when are you going to use his glove if you don't use it tonight?
I agree, I already said that MacDonald should be one this team. But, if your answer to your own question is MacDonald's glove, I still don't understand how you don't advocate putting him in as a defensive replacement in a one run game. You said yourself that Mac's on the team because of his glove, when are you going to use his glove if you don't use it tonight?
I'm quite surpised that they sent League down. It's not really surpising in the way that he was pitching. But, I definitley question the message it sends when they gave him a spot before Spring Training and both JP and Arnsberg have been quoted as saying that he has nothing left to learn in AAA. However, if they plan on sending him to Syracuse and stretching him out to see if he can be a frontline starter, I think it's absolutely the right move.
I like sending League down. He's an even-keel kind of guy, so it shouldn't crush him. He probably knows that he pitched like trash anyway, so hopefully Whiteside can be more of a help to the big club.
Anyone know if they plan on putting him into the rotation? Or will they just stick with him being a reliever?
Here's hoping his future is in the starting rotation.
Anyone know if they plan on putting him into the rotation? Or will they just stick with him being a reliever?
Here's hoping his future is in the starting rotation.
Sounds like a good move to me. Get a veteran with a huge depth of experience in there, and let League relax with some low-pressure performances in AAA, bring the kid back up when he's ready.
Whiteside's a curious choice to be the one called up. The Syracuse staff has been pitching quite well. 3 prospects (Gaudin, Rosario, Arnold) have all been throwing well. Whiteside's been used as the closer in Syracuse, so I presume he will be used in short 1 inning stints in Toronto, which doesn't make a ton of sense considering the guy he is replacing has been working 2 to 3 innings at a time. Mike Nannini and box favourite Spike Lundberg have both been dealing and have the ability to work longer stints.
I'm wondering if they aren't just sending League down because he's pitched 5.2 innings in the last three games and threw nearly 60 pitches in Monday's game. It might just be a way to get him some rest and have a fresh arm with the team for the Yankees series.
Whiteside is a 37 year old righty and has been average or below for his major league career. He does have experience on his side. And he can probably be sent up and down without fear of affecting his confidence.
If they are sending League down to pitch a lot of innings or stretch out as a starter then great. I think that's the best thing for him this season whether or not they think he's a starter long term. Right now he doesn't have nearly the command and consistency required to dominate as he should be with the type of stuff he has.
Whiteside is a 37 year old righty and has been average or below for his major league career. He does have experience on his side. And he can probably be sent up and down without fear of affecting his confidence.
If they are sending League down to pitch a lot of innings or stretch out as a starter then great. I think that's the best thing for him this season whether or not they think he's a starter long term. Right now he doesn't have nearly the command and consistency required to dominate as he should be with the type of stuff he has.
Hey guys - I am getting ready for my flight to Toronto this morning. I will be going to the game tonight and tomorrow w/ my son. Tonight we are in 215 1st row, seats 1 & 2. If anyone wants to stop by and say 'hi'. Figures they'd send Brandon down the day before we got there! :-( Where do most of you sit? Send me an E. I am going to be walking around tonight taking pictures of the stadium so maybe I'll stop in on you.
Apparently League will be used as a starter in Syracuse, according to the G&M.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/ArticleNews/TPStory/LAC/20050420/JAYS20FINAL/TPSports/Baseball
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/ArticleNews/TPStory/LAC/20050420/JAYS20FINAL/TPSports/Baseball
Baker says the same in the Star, apparently. League will be converted to a starter.
I think Slam (Sun) actually quoted someone saying League would be stretched out. The move has several ripples. Arnold probably becomes the closer in Syracuse, with designs for the future, League joins a young rotation with designs on the future, Whiteside as mentioned comes up as a vet for a crucial series. Whiteside really isnt in any long term plans so it just plain makes sense. I would have liked to have seen Carlson or Burnside, but time will probably have them up too.
Topic 2: A friend sent me this nickname for Batista, CSI because there are bodies left everywhere when he pitches.
Topic 2: A friend sent me this nickname for Batista, CSI because there are bodies left everywhere when he pitches.
Interesting change in Syracuse, Murphy the hitting coach is telling them to hit the pitcher early in the count, wonder how this will shake out with the work the pitcher mantra we have seen..,..
http://www.syracuse.com/skychiefs/poststandard/index.ssf?/base/sports-1/111398630921261.xml
http://www.syracuse.com/skychiefs/poststandard/index.ssf?/base/sports-1/111398630921261.xml
Good move sending League down. It's not a punishment. League has dominant stuff -- the Jays only needed to find out whether he could dominate big-league hitters this year as a reliever, or if he could dominate them next year as a starter. The first two weeks have given JP & Co. the answers they need, and I think their decision is the right one. The Skychiefs have to be pretty thrilled with this addition to their staff.
However, Gibbons and Ricciardi have to have a lengthy chat with League before he leaves, to make sure he doesn't go all Adam Peterson on them. Explain to him what his role in the organization is, what's expected of him, and that the Jays want to see him in the big-league rotation soon. I'm sure this has already been done.
I am, of course, not happy that the Jays promoted another reliever rather than an extra bat. But I've beaten that horse quite long enough.
However, Gibbons and Ricciardi have to have a lengthy chat with League before he leaves, to make sure he doesn't go all Adam Peterson on them. Explain to him what his role in the organization is, what's expected of him, and that the Jays want to see him in the big-league rotation soon. I'm sure this has already been done.
I am, of course, not happy that the Jays promoted another reliever rather than an extra bat. But I've beaten that horse quite long enough.
Just wanted to mention something regarding the non-sub of Adams in the 9th defensively....
I think it bears mentioning that Adams had made 2-3 very nice defensive plays during the game already, which had to factor into Gibbons' thinking.
I think it bears mentioning that Adams had made 2-3 very nice defensive plays during the game already, which had to factor into Gibbons' thinking.
Thanks, guys... glad I'm not the only one.
I ordered two Star Passes for my girlfriend and I back in late February and they still screwed up my order. After a few calls to my "sales rep" (I use that term very loosely), I had only one of my passes couriered to me, not two, and both are in my name to begin with. So I had to pick up the second pass at the window before the 2nd game of the season. They also screwed up my order last year when I ordered my passes in October of the previous season and I wound up picking them up at the Box Office anyway. To say I'm not happy with Ted Rogers and company would be an understatement. Fortunately, the team on the field is a lot more competent.
Good move sending League down.I agree with the move but I'm surprised it's Whiteside coming up. I thought Whiteside's role was chiefly (pardon the pun) to help out Syracuse and only help the big club in case of a dire emergency, like a rash of injuries. Also, with the need for another lefty in the pen, I thought Burnside would've been called up to ease Schoeneweis' load a little bit. Mark Lukasiewicz, the former SkyChief, who is now the colour man on the Syracuse radio broadcasts, recently mentioned that Burnside would be a good candidate for a call-up.
"I am, of course, not happy that the Jays promoted another reliever rather than an extra bat. But I've beaten that horse quite long enough."
In general, I agree. However, at this moment, with the starters getting pulled early in 2 of the last 3, the Yankees & O's offense coming to town, and one off day between now and May 5th I don't think it's a bad idea.
In general, I agree. However, at this moment, with the starters getting pulled early in 2 of the last 3, the Yankees & O's offense coming to town, and one off day between now and May 5th I don't think it's a bad idea.
I thought League was being hyped as the closer of the future... perhaps even starting in the second half of the season. Didn't take the team long to change their mind. Perhaps the chronic distrust the Jays have in Josh Towers prompted this?
I agree with the decision to call up another pitcher. With Bush and Towers not pitching deep into games this past week, we should get used to that. That's what happens with young pitchers.
I agree with the decision to call up another pitcher. With Bush and Towers not pitching deep into games this past week, we should get used to that. That's what happens with young pitchers.
From Mike Rutsey:
"League wasn't getting enough work," Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi said. "With Syracuse we'll stretch him out, he'll start."
Why the switch from a reliever and potential closer?
"Whatever role he ends up with (in the big leagues) it's better to have him starting there and pitching every fifth day," Ricciardi said. "He just needs work."
"League wasn't getting enough work," Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi said. "With Syracuse we'll stretch him out, he'll start."
Why the switch from a reliever and potential closer?
"Whatever role he ends up with (in the big leagues) it's better to have him starting there and pitching every fifth day," Ricciardi said. "He just needs work."
Just to throw in my two cents worth in on the League transaction and like everyone else this is pure speculation.
I think Jordon is assesment is pretty accurate, but throw in the fact that many of us and perhaps Ricciardi were not completely confident that Batista was going to be the real deal. Maybe League was up to both see how he would fare, as well in the event of closer problems either take over the role or move up the chain.
Batista's position is secure now so Ricciardi's has more flexibility. League will no doubt benefit more from getting loads of innings under his belt now. He could turn out to be a plus starter and if the need arises its easier to set up a return to the pen than the other way around.
The call up of Whiteside to me is pretty simple. Short term arm with no worries of either getting him through loosing him if he was to return to the Chiefs.
I think Jordon is assesment is pretty accurate, but throw in the fact that many of us and perhaps Ricciardi were not completely confident that Batista was going to be the real deal. Maybe League was up to both see how he would fare, as well in the event of closer problems either take over the role or move up the chain.
Batista's position is secure now so Ricciardi's has more flexibility. League will no doubt benefit more from getting loads of innings under his belt now. He could turn out to be a plus starter and if the need arises its easier to set up a return to the pen than the other way around.
The call up of Whiteside to me is pretty simple. Short term arm with no worries of either getting him through loosing him if he was to return to the Chiefs.
I hate it when I feel like I'm inside Ricciardi's head.
I'm not sure "League as closer" was the team's longterm plan except as a fallback measure. League has been a starter throughout his minor-league career, and he'll likely remain a starter until he shows he can't hack it. I would've preferred he start the season in the Skychiefs' rotation in the first place, but his exposure to the majors has probably been beneficial to him. He and Rosario are going to be one helluva 1-2 punch for that squad.
Granted that an extra bullpen arm would be helpful in the short term (although I also was surprised not to see Lundberg or Burnside instead). I can only hope this promotion also means Russ Adams gets to face a left-hander once in a while.
I hate it when I feel like I'm inside Ricciardi's head.
I'm sure he feels the same way. :-)
Pistol asked whether Koskie has turned double plays at a better rate than Hinske did last year. Koskie has turned 5 in 8 games, a pace which is completely unsustainable (he'd blow the record for DPs flipped by a 3B to smithereens). Hinske turned 23 in 153 games last year. That is a below average, but not terrible, rate. Koskie actually started only 14 in 112 games last year.
Fielding stats are no longer accessible on espn.com, but current year stats are readily available on mlb.com, and historical fielding stats can be obtained most readily through baseballreference.com. Here is the 2004 AL 3B fielding summary from br.
I agree completely with your points, thats why I actually speculated that League could be moved up the pen pecking order and ofcourse that would be dependent on performance.
And I'm sure one of JP's staff have already run my last comment over to him and he is shuddering as we speak.
And I'm sure one of JP's staff have already run my last comment over to him and he is shuddering as we speak.
Personally, I think it should have been Arnold who called called up. They brought up a short reliever and he fits the bill. More importantly, this is a player who is spending his 3rd year on the 40man roster and will need to be kept next year or passed through waivers. It's time to get a look at him and see if he has the ability to help this team in the long run.
I thought League was being hyped as the closer of the future...
Not asking facetiously, but how many current closers were once hyped as "closers of the future"?
Seems to me that many are just failed starters. Gagne and Rivera jump immediately to mind.
But, if your answer to your own question is MacDonald's glove, I still don't understand how you don't advocate putting him in as a defensive replacement in a one run game. You said yourself that Mac's on the team because of his glove, when are you going to use his glove if you don't use it tonight?
Again I'll go back to the point of just because he is on the team for his glove, doesn't mean you have to use him in every close game. Adams needs to play in pressure situations. And it's not like Gibbons has had a hard time getting Mac into the lineup.