*(I heard the other day that 35 states were adversely affected by bad weather, 35! Well all I can say is the California living, as least weather wise, clearly appears to be golden!)
*A's fans actually earling a little love in an article in Athletics Nation. On this holiday season, not a bad little read for those not on the good side of the force! Now the baseball world is on hold to see where Japanese pitcher Masihiro Tanaka lands. After Tanaka, then the remaining pitchers will settle. My money is Tanaka lands with one of the Evil Empires, the Yankees or the Dodgers. Although I wouldn't be surprised to see Tanaka as an Angel. Garza, Santana, Arroyo, will all be hot commodities once Masihiro is in line at the bank.
*Warriors and Clippers a real rivalry? Hum, they have got the Norcal/Socal thing going? Both want to be major players, but either team has really accomplished much, yet. I like the old school rivalries when teams just do not like each other. Time will tell on the Clippers and W's, but isn't the really story in the NBA the Portland Trailblazers?
*Thus Raider fans, as you fidget miserably through yet another disastrous NFL season, perhaps hope shines through from the North. Not the North Pole, but in Portland. The Trailblazers, who too have notched their fare share of languishing in the professional sports scene wilderness ever since that fateful day in 1984 when they drafted household name Sam Bowie with the #2 pick, immediately in front of the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls by the way, chose some upstart no tag wearing young baller by the name of Jordan! (I heard a great piece on the Trailblazers on National Public Radio by the way--the story noted the Blazers actually started the 4th quarter leading the Kobe & Shaq Lakers by 15 in Game 7 of the 1991 Western Conference Finals before losing; "Rip City" as they were called at the time did make the NBA Finals in 1990 and 1992; at one time, things were so "tough" in Portland, the locals were calling the team the Jail Blazers. Ouch!) Just imagine, Jordan would have been teamed with Clyde Drexler--talk about a Posterlicious Backcourt Duo. Well, Raider fans, hopefully this helps with the agony of JaMarcus and the 2007 draft. While that draft was not the greatest of all times, Raider Nation can only imagine things could have been differnt if the Silver and Black had taken Adrian Peterson out of Oklahoma. Peterson would eventually be taken with the 7th pick by Minnesota. Have faith Raiders fans, have faith.
*Perhaps there will be a Gruden in Oakland after all--not John, but brother Jay. Jay is currently the Bengals Offensive Coordinator, and his name has begun to surface as a candidate when coaching jobs open up next week. It sure looks like Dennis Allen needs a win tomorrow versus Denver to keep his job. Next week will be very interesting in Raiderland.....are the winds of change blowing in Oakland? Allen and McKenzie were dealt a tough hand two years ago, but really, how much has changed? The team has played with much more discipline--but you just don't earn many bonus points for 4 wins a season. McKenzie need to hit on the first two picks of the draft in 2013 and that simply did not happen. In fairness to Coach Allen, is it pretty hard to win without a QB, and when your superstar kicker has a very average season. The Gruden Factor definitely in play very, very soon!
*I also heard yet another great little piece on public radio regarding The Stick. I didn't realize the Beatles played the Stick the same month I was born (August 1966). What I reemember most about the Stick was it was the first time I viewed AstroTurf with my own eyes--the color was bright green. Kind of cool, weird, but cool. At the time, I believe Candlestick was the only pro sports team in California (perhaps amateur too?), to sport the hard stuff? I remember thinking as an adult that the weather always seemed better for football than baseball? In fact, the enclosed Stick always seemed liked a better venue for football period. Yes, I was too young to see the Stick "open style!" The outfield bleachers were always a little weird for baseball, and ala Mark Twain, the Stick was freezing during baseball season. Additionally, the mustard was also a funky brownish color over in San Francisco. My three most vivid Candlestick Memories:
1. Tailgating with the Smith's and Flaherty's--man style!
2. Did I mention I froze my fanny off at a baseball game--Marlins I believe?
3. The NFC Championship Game versus the NY Giants back in 1991. What I remember most is the hit Marshall put on Montana. Ouch. It was like Montana went 90 degrees parallel in the air, then fell hard to the ground. Ouch infinity. Now you have to remember, yes I am on the Silver and Black Side, but Montana is and was the original "Golden Boy." He never seemed the same after that hit. I also remember the sheer eeriness of the Craig fumble. The game seemed over. All I remember was Hostetler seemed to roll right on every play. The game winning kick was surreal. My good friend from New York was with me, and I remember him making the weirdest noises--he was trying to keep his cool since we were among 49er faithful. The kick was in slow motion, end over end over end....the stadium had its collective heart in it's throat; to this day, I swear the officials under the goal post took their time; they looked at each other, nodded, then up came the arms. My friend let out an oohh, wee, but all on the down low, tough, cool New Yorker Style. (Ironically and a bit sadly, I recall 10 years later, in another playoff game in 2001--this time across the bay, that same collective eerie silence. It was the AFC Championship Game, Raiders vs. Ravens. First quarter, game tied, Ravens backed against their own end zone. Trent Dilfer connects with Shannon Sharpe on a slant, a little shake here, a miss tackle there, and Sharpe goes 95 yards. 60,000 plus screaming fans, go mute. Eerie. Against a Ravens D that day that was the fastest defense I had ever seen, that play, was literally, game, set, match. )
*Thus to the Smiths, Flahertys, and all of you wonderful but misguided joy-killing SF Giants fans (the black bat on Bat Day was cool by the way--not as cool as a Kelly Green Reggie Jackson model, but cool none the less!), I raise my glass to you.
*However, on this Holiday Season, I especially want to raise my glass high for the family of Delta Farming Icon Lincoln Chan. For many seasons and games the Chan Empire graciously shared tickets with my father right behind the 49ers bench, Section 16 Row 2 to be exact! When I used to walk guest down to these seats they always thought I was kidding--me, come on now! To the Brown Spicy Mustard, (Gulden's I believe), thanks for the memories!
Have a favorite memory of Candelstick--share it with me, I would love to hear your story!
A Work In Progress...With the Goal to Entertain!
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Trail Blazing, The Stick, and Some Not So Good Championship Game Memories 10 Years Apart!
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Is Chucky Under the Christmas Tree?
A Little Holiday Cheer....
*John Gruden back with the Raiders, nah he wouldn't do that--would he? Interesting tidbit on Yahoo. Raider fans have not had much to celebrate at the Holidays in a long time, and I am just saying, cue the Kid Rock baby, "Who says, you can't go back, there is only place and that's a matter of fact..." Only one way to put the Tuck game to rest Coach G!
*Athetics Nation had an interesting article--apparently one of the writers from Baseball Prospectus (Andrew Koo) has determined the A's players are on the high end of the percentages of Fly Balls Hit, and even Fly Balls pitched. The article is a little techy but extremely interesting. The story implies that perhaps the A's have figured out a way to tailor a team in the Coli.
*Grant Balfour apparently had a $15 million deal on the table by the Orioles until it was mysteriously pulled? Hum. Think he is a little irked? I don't imagine any of the Birds will be digging in next they face the Rager!
*The Irish will be at Fenway next season against Boston College in the Catholic Clash--naw I just made that up. Irish playing in Yankee Stadium next week. Cool. A little weird, but cool. I like the fact ND comes to out West in consectuve years....any road trip takers out there?
*I caught a little of President Obama's press conference yesterday while driving north on good old State Route 99. The man is adept at turning tough, laser-tazer like questions around, or at least re-directing them. He uses um, a lot, but he seems to take his time, gather his wits, then proceed. I made a note to myself about these finer points of communication! Happy Holidays Mr. President!
*Lots of Bulldogs in Vegas for the big showdown with Trojans today. I see Derek Carr projected as top 10 pick in many Mock Drafts. Pretty big game for pride of the "Valley." (Pssstttt--most Fresnoians refer to Fresno as "The Valley. I am not quite sure why, as Redding to Bakersfield pretty much all valley, but none-the-less, just go with it!)
*Speaking of road trips, Sport Leisure Travel out of Sacramento has put one of my ideas in play (that doesn't happen too often!): they have a package for the July 3rd Giants Game and then the A's game....going to be pretty hard to turn that one down. This will be pretty high on my "list." Don't forget to mention that the Fonz sent you!
*My team (Reedley College Men's Basketball) lost our second consecutive game by one point. From about 3 a.m. to 5 a.m. I replayed most of that game. AARRGH. Gruden is up at 3 a.m. anyway, right?
Happy Holidays Everyone!
*John Gruden back with the Raiders, nah he wouldn't do that--would he? Interesting tidbit on Yahoo. Raider fans have not had much to celebrate at the Holidays in a long time, and I am just saying, cue the Kid Rock baby, "Who says, you can't go back, there is only place and that's a matter of fact..." Only one way to put the Tuck game to rest Coach G!
*Athetics Nation had an interesting article--apparently one of the writers from Baseball Prospectus (Andrew Koo) has determined the A's players are on the high end of the percentages of Fly Balls Hit, and even Fly Balls pitched. The article is a little techy but extremely interesting. The story implies that perhaps the A's have figured out a way to tailor a team in the Coli.
*Grant Balfour apparently had a $15 million deal on the table by the Orioles until it was mysteriously pulled? Hum. Think he is a little irked? I don't imagine any of the Birds will be digging in next they face the Rager!
*The Irish will be at Fenway next season against Boston College in the Catholic Clash--naw I just made that up. Irish playing in Yankee Stadium next week. Cool. A little weird, but cool. I like the fact ND comes to out West in consectuve years....any road trip takers out there?
*I caught a little of President Obama's press conference yesterday while driving north on good old State Route 99. The man is adept at turning tough, laser-tazer like questions around, or at least re-directing them. He uses um, a lot, but he seems to take his time, gather his wits, then proceed. I made a note to myself about these finer points of communication! Happy Holidays Mr. President!
*Lots of Bulldogs in Vegas for the big showdown with Trojans today. I see Derek Carr projected as top 10 pick in many Mock Drafts. Pretty big game for pride of the "Valley." (Pssstttt--most Fresnoians refer to Fresno as "The Valley. I am not quite sure why, as Redding to Bakersfield pretty much all valley, but none-the-less, just go with it!)
*Speaking of road trips, Sport Leisure Travel out of Sacramento has put one of my ideas in play (that doesn't happen too often!): they have a package for the July 3rd Giants Game and then the A's game....going to be pretty hard to turn that one down. This will be pretty high on my "list." Don't forget to mention that the Fonz sent you!
*My team (Reedley College Men's Basketball) lost our second consecutive game by one point. From about 3 a.m. to 5 a.m. I replayed most of that game. AARRGH. Gruden is up at 3 a.m. anyway, right?
Happy Holidays Everyone!
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Flipping the Remote in the Get Down Lounge....
*One poster on the December 14 edition of the San Francisco Chronicle's "The Drumbeat" (PL 78) mentioned this morning that after all of the A's recent transcations, the Green and Gold are theoretically 5 games better based on the sabermatic "WAR" calculation. (WAR stands for Wins above replacement.) That's great news and all, however I just wonder if it will make them one game BETTER in the postseason! By the way, yes I do like the moves they have made thus far, especially in regards to the bullpen.
*Another tidbit in the Chron mentioned that while the bay area has attractive and bright people, it does lack in sports bars. I have simple explanation, California is the land of the bandwagoneer. In California, attendance is good when teams win. Period. When teams aren't winning, Californians head to the beach, Tahoe, Yosemite, etc. Oh don't look at me like that, you know it's true!
*The Giants pick up of big and tall Matt Morse sure is interesting. The big fella was a pretty low risk, but the guy is really more like a DH. Left Filed at AT&T seems like a pretty touch chore with all of the space, wind, and sun out there. Morse, is longgggggg and lanky, I can just envision him running around in circles out there in left. The guy was an A's killer during his short time in Seattle. Time will tell....additionally many of the pundits on the MLB channel applauded the acquisition of Huddy. Sure looks like from where I sit if Cain is Cy Cain, Panda can find a salad and a treadmill, and Marco DOES NOT act his age, Giants could have another fun sunner. However, if the the Matandaro doesn't produce, the Black and Orange will be looking up at the Dodger$ again.
*The big winners in MLB thus far in the Hot Stove? Well, isn't it the players and agents, because ball players are definitely getting paid! Man the Marinter$ handed out Robinson Cano a lot of dough. When the was the last time a player turned down the Bronx Bombers for the King's Army?
*Lots of excitement in CenCal about the Beloved Bulldogs traveling to Vegas to do battle with the Men of Troy. I envision plenty of roadtrips being made to Sin City next weekend. (I wonder how the Trojans feel about the matchup?) Can Derek Carr move up to #1 pick in the NFL draft status with a big game in the desert?
*The Irish get 6-6 Rutgers in the Pinstripte Bowl. Really? That's the best matchup the NCAA could come up with? Geesh. The Subway Alumni however doing the jig since the game in Yankee Stadium. Couldn't that game be a little spicier, like how about the Irish and them Miami Canes. Oohh...
*Now the Niners and the Seahawks, that's football. One can only hope they meet again in the playoffs. In the AFC, here is a question: when was the last time a Big AFC game didn't involve Manning or Brady? OK maybe, maybe Steelers vs. Ravens but that's about it. Time for some new blood in the AFC.
*The Raiders, sigh....I had to explain to my 10 year-old that the last time they were good, was just about the time she was born, 2001. I can only hope that before she graduates high school, the Silver and Black will again be in the playoff picture! Perhaps a better question, where indeed will they be playing? Even better question, who will their signal caller?
*Poor Sacramento King's fans!
*San Jose's lawsuit against MLB moves on. I can't decipher all the ongoings, but the current Anti-trust status that the MLB currently possesses seems might shaky. It does seem to me however, that in reality, the A's should be sueing, not San Jose. I am just saying....
*The W's: are they down double digits in every game? Their entertainment value is sure on the rise, they have been on the Network quite a bit lately!
*Here's a straight change for you. At a nice little gathering of colleagues and friends last night, there was plenty of discussion about one of my favorite read's, the book "Look Me In the Eye" by John Elder Robisson. If the topic of Asperger's is any way relevent to you, this book is a must read. If you ever went to a Kiss concert, or have one of their album's, you too might want to pick this book up. The author provides great insight--and perhaps even hope--for those living with Asperger's.
*One poster on the December 14 edition of the San Francisco Chronicle's "The Drumbeat" (PL 78) mentioned this morning that after all of the A's recent transcations, the Green and Gold are theoretically 5 games better based on the sabermatic "WAR" calculation. (WAR stands for Wins above replacement.) That's great news and all, however I just wonder if it will make them one game BETTER in the postseason! By the way, yes I do like the moves they have made thus far, especially in regards to the bullpen.
*Another tidbit in the Chron mentioned that while the bay area has attractive and bright people, it does lack in sports bars. I have simple explanation, California is the land of the bandwagoneer. In California, attendance is good when teams win. Period. When teams aren't winning, Californians head to the beach, Tahoe, Yosemite, etc. Oh don't look at me like that, you know it's true!
*The Giants pick up of big and tall Matt Morse sure is interesting. The big fella was a pretty low risk, but the guy is really more like a DH. Left Filed at AT&T seems like a pretty touch chore with all of the space, wind, and sun out there. Morse, is longgggggg and lanky, I can just envision him running around in circles out there in left. The guy was an A's killer during his short time in Seattle. Time will tell....additionally many of the pundits on the MLB channel applauded the acquisition of Huddy. Sure looks like from where I sit if Cain is Cy Cain, Panda can find a salad and a treadmill, and Marco DOES NOT act his age, Giants could have another fun sunner. However, if the the Matandaro doesn't produce, the Black and Orange will be looking up at the Dodger$ again.
*The big winners in MLB thus far in the Hot Stove? Well, isn't it the players and agents, because ball players are definitely getting paid! Man the Marinter$ handed out Robinson Cano a lot of dough. When the was the last time a player turned down the Bronx Bombers for the King's Army?
*Lots of excitement in CenCal about the Beloved Bulldogs traveling to Vegas to do battle with the Men of Troy. I envision plenty of roadtrips being made to Sin City next weekend. (I wonder how the Trojans feel about the matchup?) Can Derek Carr move up to #1 pick in the NFL draft status with a big game in the desert?
*The Irish get 6-6 Rutgers in the Pinstripte Bowl. Really? That's the best matchup the NCAA could come up with? Geesh. The Subway Alumni however doing the jig since the game in Yankee Stadium. Couldn't that game be a little spicier, like how about the Irish and them Miami Canes. Oohh...
*Now the Niners and the Seahawks, that's football. One can only hope they meet again in the playoffs. In the AFC, here is a question: when was the last time a Big AFC game didn't involve Manning or Brady? OK maybe, maybe Steelers vs. Ravens but that's about it. Time for some new blood in the AFC.
*The Raiders, sigh....I had to explain to my 10 year-old that the last time they were good, was just about the time she was born, 2001. I can only hope that before she graduates high school, the Silver and Black will again be in the playoff picture! Perhaps a better question, where indeed will they be playing? Even better question, who will their signal caller?
*Poor Sacramento King's fans!
*San Jose's lawsuit against MLB moves on. I can't decipher all the ongoings, but the current Anti-trust status that the MLB currently possesses seems might shaky. It does seem to me however, that in reality, the A's should be sueing, not San Jose. I am just saying....
*The W's: are they down double digits in every game? Their entertainment value is sure on the rise, they have been on the Network quite a bit lately!
*Here's a straight change for you. At a nice little gathering of colleagues and friends last night, there was plenty of discussion about one of my favorite read's, the book "Look Me In the Eye" by John Elder Robisson. If the topic of Asperger's is any way relevent to you, this book is a must read. If you ever went to a Kiss concert, or have one of their album's, you too might want to pick this book up. The author provides great insight--and perhaps even hope--for those living with Asperger's.
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Spending Money, Del Mundo and Double Dipping
Taking a Stroll in the Get Down Lounge
*So the World Cup Draw is tomorrow, Friday. Over the years I have found the Cup to be highly entertaining. Of course, the fact that my native countrymen, the Portuguese, are typically in the mix, perhaps it is in my DNA. I believe if the American Men ever win the Cup, soccer could literally blow up in the USA!
*Can I just say Monday was unbelievable! First the A's sign Scott Kazmir, to a 2-year $22 million dollar contract. Maybe opening up the third deck of the playoffs made some profits. To this point Kazmir career has followed a riches to rags to back in the show career. Here is why I was giddy on Monday--Kaz is a mere 29 years old. In recent years, this has typically been about the age when good players leave Oakland.
Then.....later that day, Jim Johnson. Whatttt? Josh Johnson of 50 saves. His numbers very similar to Balfour's, and the A's are going to pay him a cool $10 million or so. For those of you who read 100% 3G, regularly, I have been begging for B Squared to spend in the pen, and man did ever. I am feeling the love Billy B!
*The news just kept getting better! The A's added another reliever, with a sub 3.00 ERA in Luke Gregerson from the Padres. Keep adding power arms! With the additions of Kazmir, I wasn't sure if the A's got better than last year, but I felt like they were at least as good as last season. Then they add Gregerson, and I am thinking the old Tom Hanks line in the movie A League of Their Own, "were gonna win, were gonna win."It does seem apparent the A's are indeed going for it all in 2014. I still cringe at the possibility of playing the Tigers in the postseason however.
*Then they added speedy outfielder and A's killer Craig Gentry. Gentry is speedy, a very good defensive outfielder, and has been productive over his career versus left handed pitching. Gentry can back up Crisp, spell Cespy and Reddick, once in a while, but perhaps most importantly, he gives the A's some serious speed.
*The A's did have to deal some of their highest ranked prospects--in particular for Gentry, they gave up former first round pick Michael Choice. Choice looked okay during his September callup, but his big league success not guaranteed. For Johnson, the A's parted with another first round pick Jemile Weeks. If you want to play with the big boys, you need to play big, and Beane and Co. appear to be playing big.
*Will the final move be the trade of pitcher Bret Anderson? The big lefty has been a case study in injuries the last two years, but he is very capable when healthy. The A's appear to have enough starting pitching, but in reality, can you ever have enough good pitching? The A's could use one more big bat, a short stop with some range, and perhaps an upgrade behind the plate. However a staring rotation of Jarrod Parker, Sonny Gray, Anderson, and Kaz, looks pretty darn good. Perhaps the A's pull an end around and trade A.J. Griffin or Dan Straley? I am just saying...this team could be really good. There was also some rumor of Cespedes being traded; I don't see it happening, but if another team absolutely loves him, well, B squared would listed.
*Is the Seahawks/Niners rivalry the best going in the NFL? In my opinion, yes, yes it is. In fact, I would argue it is the best going in professional sports. Both teams are good, and they publicly share their genuine bitter dislike for each other. That dear people, MAKES a rivalry.
*Need some holiay gift ideas: April 6, in Oakland a person could take in the A's game at 1 p.m., then walk over the Oracle at 6 and watch the W's take on the Jazz. For those with less time, on Friday April 4th, A's start at 7, while W's tip it off at 7:30. Thus, you can catch first half of A's game, and then the second half of the Warriors. Good gift ideas huh?
*The Bay-Area Double Dips Days: May 28, Giants vs. Cubs at 12:45, A's and Tigers at 7 p.m. in the O.Co. (There may be a June day, but the Giants have announced their game times. Giants host the Rockies while the A's host the Bronx Bombers!) July 3rd might be the winner however, Giants host the Cardinals in the afternoon, while the A's will host the Jays at 6:05. The caveat, after the A's game, there will be fireworks.
*If you have never been to Spring Training, I have to admit it is a lot of fun. We went during the NCAA tourney last season and had a blast. The Sunday in March when we were there, we just happened to catch some big old dude wearing #66 for the Dodger$. The Big Fella smashed a double. Who knew? The Blue Crew that's who. Take the loved one, leave the little ones at home. I would recommend the Salty Senorita as a great place to watch the tournament games in the evening, and cool off after a warm day in the Arizona son.
*To Billy B, I raise my hot egg nog latte to you, even though we both know, the only toast that matters is when you win the last game of the season!
*So the World Cup Draw is tomorrow, Friday. Over the years I have found the Cup to be highly entertaining. Of course, the fact that my native countrymen, the Portuguese, are typically in the mix, perhaps it is in my DNA. I believe if the American Men ever win the Cup, soccer could literally blow up in the USA!
*Can I just say Monday was unbelievable! First the A's sign Scott Kazmir, to a 2-year $22 million dollar contract. Maybe opening up the third deck of the playoffs made some profits. To this point Kazmir career has followed a riches to rags to back in the show career. Here is why I was giddy on Monday--Kaz is a mere 29 years old. In recent years, this has typically been about the age when good players leave Oakland.
Then.....later that day, Jim Johnson. Whatttt? Josh Johnson of 50 saves. His numbers very similar to Balfour's, and the A's are going to pay him a cool $10 million or so. For those of you who read 100% 3G, regularly, I have been begging for B Squared to spend in the pen, and man did ever. I am feeling the love Billy B!
*The news just kept getting better! The A's added another reliever, with a sub 3.00 ERA in Luke Gregerson from the Padres. Keep adding power arms! With the additions of Kazmir, I wasn't sure if the A's got better than last year, but I felt like they were at least as good as last season. Then they add Gregerson, and I am thinking the old Tom Hanks line in the movie A League of Their Own, "were gonna win, were gonna win."It does seem apparent the A's are indeed going for it all in 2014. I still cringe at the possibility of playing the Tigers in the postseason however.
*Then they added speedy outfielder and A's killer Craig Gentry. Gentry is speedy, a very good defensive outfielder, and has been productive over his career versus left handed pitching. Gentry can back up Crisp, spell Cespy and Reddick, once in a while, but perhaps most importantly, he gives the A's some serious speed.
*The A's did have to deal some of their highest ranked prospects--in particular for Gentry, they gave up former first round pick Michael Choice. Choice looked okay during his September callup, but his big league success not guaranteed. For Johnson, the A's parted with another first round pick Jemile Weeks. If you want to play with the big boys, you need to play big, and Beane and Co. appear to be playing big.
*Will the final move be the trade of pitcher Bret Anderson? The big lefty has been a case study in injuries the last two years, but he is very capable when healthy. The A's appear to have enough starting pitching, but in reality, can you ever have enough good pitching? The A's could use one more big bat, a short stop with some range, and perhaps an upgrade behind the plate. However a staring rotation of Jarrod Parker, Sonny Gray, Anderson, and Kaz, looks pretty darn good. Perhaps the A's pull an end around and trade A.J. Griffin or Dan Straley? I am just saying...this team could be really good. There was also some rumor of Cespedes being traded; I don't see it happening, but if another team absolutely loves him, well, B squared would listed.
*Is the Seahawks/Niners rivalry the best going in the NFL? In my opinion, yes, yes it is. In fact, I would argue it is the best going in professional sports. Both teams are good, and they publicly share their genuine bitter dislike for each other. That dear people, MAKES a rivalry.
*Need some holiay gift ideas: April 6, in Oakland a person could take in the A's game at 1 p.m., then walk over the Oracle at 6 and watch the W's take on the Jazz. For those with less time, on Friday April 4th, A's start at 7, while W's tip it off at 7:30. Thus, you can catch first half of A's game, and then the second half of the Warriors. Good gift ideas huh?
*The Bay-Area Double Dips Days: May 28, Giants vs. Cubs at 12:45, A's and Tigers at 7 p.m. in the O.Co. (There may be a June day, but the Giants have announced their game times. Giants host the Rockies while the A's host the Bronx Bombers!) July 3rd might be the winner however, Giants host the Cardinals in the afternoon, while the A's will host the Jays at 6:05. The caveat, after the A's game, there will be fireworks.
*If you have never been to Spring Training, I have to admit it is a lot of fun. We went during the NCAA tourney last season and had a blast. The Sunday in March when we were there, we just happened to catch some big old dude wearing #66 for the Dodger$. The Big Fella smashed a double. Who knew? The Blue Crew that's who. Take the loved one, leave the little ones at home. I would recommend the Salty Senorita as a great place to watch the tournament games in the evening, and cool off after a warm day in the Arizona son.
*To Billy B, I raise my hot egg nog latte to you, even though we both know, the only toast that matters is when you win the last game of the season!
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Many Thanks
Being Thankful in the Get Down Lounge......
*Is there anyone more thankful today than the fans of those frisky Auburn Tigers? What a finish! By the way, many moons ago I drove by Auburn U. For those of you from NorCal, I remember driving through a town, that resembled Ryde California, then BAM, all of sudden there is this massive football stadium. For you CenCal folks, use Traver for the imagery. I remember thinking at the time, Auburn every country boy's dream school. (Fans of Bama and the Georgia Bulldogs, perhaps not so thankful this year!)
*In a perfect world, I would have been in Palo Alto taking in the Irish and the Cardinal. Maybe in two years--if anyone has tickets, I will drive!
*Since football takes first billing....oh my has it been a tough decade for Raider fans. Tough, Tough, Tough.
Since the NFL is truly a QB's league, how many games would the Raiders win if Payton or Brady or Rogers was their QB? I know, pretty good question huh? One maybe two more draft Raider fans, then ideally things will turn around. They need players--play ERS. In order, draft an OL, DL, WR, RB, LB, DB, and then see what happens. I am not sure about McGloin (I just can't help myself and call him McGroin!) and Pryor, but, this team needs more than just a QB. Seabass has really struggled as well, and in a league with such parity, the Raiders brass may have a tough call on what do with the Polish Cannon!. Although Gruden is making a ton of cash in the booth, I just wonder if he might like to return someday and finish what he started?
*Isn't it eerie, how construction workers have died working stadiums for the Niners and the World Cup in Brazil. Sad and eerie. Someone brought it to my attention that I belive in conspiracy theories--and after some introspection on the topic....yes, yes I do! I also believe in ghosts, and those stadiums, well, I don't want to say they are cursed, but... (whenver anyone uses but or however after a wishy-washy statement, it just can't be good! Think breakups!!).
*With the Hot Stove cranking up, if you like me are an A's fans you have got to chuckle--or cry! The A's big acquisition thus far, Nick Punto ladies and gentlemen, Nick Punto. The A's are hoping for a Johny Gomes nose-in-the-dirt-leader type of guy on this one. Time will tell, all I can say is BULLPEN BILLY, BULLPEN! The Gigos made a splash with the signing of Tim Hudson and the recent signing of fan favorite Ryan Vogelsong. Thus Giant Nation I ask the following question: with essentially the same linup coming back, is the offense good enough? Yes health is a concern, but the Giants were not very good last year and they are bringing back essentially the same time. Minus Barry of course. I would think Giants are feeling pretty good right about now, buy my question is should they?
*Yankees sign McCann, eh, no surprise, it would seem the Bombers might want some pitching? Rangers and Tigers swap a pair of sticks in Kinsler for Felder. Shouldn't both of those teams be looking at reliever?
How about the Twins, signing Nolasco? Anything to get Detroit out of the playoffs. The Red Sox are the new Moneyball--they have money, and they spend it wisely on ball players! The Dodgers also added and another former Athletic in Dan Haren. Lots of moves out there still to be made.
*So when I can't sleep, I watch my own edited version of Moneyball. If you haven't seen it yet, (come on man, get over it) and watch it. Red Sox fans love it! Next time you watch it, make sure you check out the "deleted" scene with Art Howe. Hilarious! They should have left it in--I don't want to spoil it for you but I wonder if indeed Beane pulled that move? Great lines in that scene with Billy talking about Bradford. Watch it more than once, and your are going go laugh. The section with the film makers also really struck a cord with me. They referred to the Coliseum, as a piece of history, a character so to speak. Which got me thinking, has any stadium seen more than the good old Oakland Alameda Coliseum? NFL Playoff Games, World Series, heck even the Day on the Green concerts from the 70's? (You with me old dudes?) It was really cool and touching the way the directors described the coli. So cool it made my eyes water. If you like Brad Pitt, and the dude is charming, the blooper scene with him laughing is pretty good as well.
*My new standard line which I have taken from the movie, "Pete, you're a good egg."
*Thus as some of you know, my family, has been dealing with people getting older, and all of the health issues that come along with it. For those who have lost parents, I have a much greater empathy and sympathy with your experiences. Mortality Reality I call it. For those of you "youngsters," just remember to make time for the people that matter most. Our world moves so fast--and it will keep on moving with or without us--just stop and not only smell the roses, but spend time with the gardeners.
*Thus, here near the end of this Thanksgiving Weekend 2013, I raise my glass to friends and family and foes and all of you around the world; to conspiracies, ghosts, and of course, my second home, the O.Co. Finally, to that wonderful Raider fan who helped saved a woman's life by breaking her fall as she jumped from the 3rd deck at the Coli, you good sir will always have a spot in the Get Down Lounge!
*Is there anyone more thankful today than the fans of those frisky Auburn Tigers? What a finish! By the way, many moons ago I drove by Auburn U. For those of you from NorCal, I remember driving through a town, that resembled Ryde California, then BAM, all of sudden there is this massive football stadium. For you CenCal folks, use Traver for the imagery. I remember thinking at the time, Auburn every country boy's dream school. (Fans of Bama and the Georgia Bulldogs, perhaps not so thankful this year!)
*In a perfect world, I would have been in Palo Alto taking in the Irish and the Cardinal. Maybe in two years--if anyone has tickets, I will drive!
*Since football takes first billing....oh my has it been a tough decade for Raider fans. Tough, Tough, Tough.
Since the NFL is truly a QB's league, how many games would the Raiders win if Payton or Brady or Rogers was their QB? I know, pretty good question huh? One maybe two more draft Raider fans, then ideally things will turn around. They need players--play ERS. In order, draft an OL, DL, WR, RB, LB, DB, and then see what happens. I am not sure about McGloin (I just can't help myself and call him McGroin!) and Pryor, but, this team needs more than just a QB. Seabass has really struggled as well, and in a league with such parity, the Raiders brass may have a tough call on what do with the Polish Cannon!. Although Gruden is making a ton of cash in the booth, I just wonder if he might like to return someday and finish what he started?
*Isn't it eerie, how construction workers have died working stadiums for the Niners and the World Cup in Brazil. Sad and eerie. Someone brought it to my attention that I belive in conspiracy theories--and after some introspection on the topic....yes, yes I do! I also believe in ghosts, and those stadiums, well, I don't want to say they are cursed, but... (whenver anyone uses but or however after a wishy-washy statement, it just can't be good! Think breakups!!).
*With the Hot Stove cranking up, if you like me are an A's fans you have got to chuckle--or cry! The A's big acquisition thus far, Nick Punto ladies and gentlemen, Nick Punto. The A's are hoping for a Johny Gomes nose-in-the-dirt-leader type of guy on this one. Time will tell, all I can say is BULLPEN BILLY, BULLPEN! The Gigos made a splash with the signing of Tim Hudson and the recent signing of fan favorite Ryan Vogelsong. Thus Giant Nation I ask the following question: with essentially the same linup coming back, is the offense good enough? Yes health is a concern, but the Giants were not very good last year and they are bringing back essentially the same time. Minus Barry of course. I would think Giants are feeling pretty good right about now, buy my question is should they?
*Yankees sign McCann, eh, no surprise, it would seem the Bombers might want some pitching? Rangers and Tigers swap a pair of sticks in Kinsler for Felder. Shouldn't both of those teams be looking at reliever?
How about the Twins, signing Nolasco? Anything to get Detroit out of the playoffs. The Red Sox are the new Moneyball--they have money, and they spend it wisely on ball players! The Dodgers also added and another former Athletic in Dan Haren. Lots of moves out there still to be made.
*So when I can't sleep, I watch my own edited version of Moneyball. If you haven't seen it yet, (come on man, get over it) and watch it. Red Sox fans love it! Next time you watch it, make sure you check out the "deleted" scene with Art Howe. Hilarious! They should have left it in--I don't want to spoil it for you but I wonder if indeed Beane pulled that move? Great lines in that scene with Billy talking about Bradford. Watch it more than once, and your are going go laugh. The section with the film makers also really struck a cord with me. They referred to the Coliseum, as a piece of history, a character so to speak. Which got me thinking, has any stadium seen more than the good old Oakland Alameda Coliseum? NFL Playoff Games, World Series, heck even the Day on the Green concerts from the 70's? (You with me old dudes?) It was really cool and touching the way the directors described the coli. So cool it made my eyes water. If you like Brad Pitt, and the dude is charming, the blooper scene with him laughing is pretty good as well.
*My new standard line which I have taken from the movie, "Pete, you're a good egg."
*Thus as some of you know, my family, has been dealing with people getting older, and all of the health issues that come along with it. For those who have lost parents, I have a much greater empathy and sympathy with your experiences. Mortality Reality I call it. For those of you "youngsters," just remember to make time for the people that matter most. Our world moves so fast--and it will keep on moving with or without us--just stop and not only smell the roses, but spend time with the gardeners.
*Thus, here near the end of this Thanksgiving Weekend 2013, I raise my glass to friends and family and foes and all of you around the world; to conspiracies, ghosts, and of course, my second home, the O.Co. Finally, to that wonderful Raider fan who helped saved a woman's life by breaking her fall as she jumped from the 3rd deck at the Coli, you good sir will always have a spot in the Get Down Lounge!
Labels:
Auburn,
Hot Stove,
Moneyball,
QBs,
Stadium Deaths,
The O.Co,
The Raiders
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Joy and Agony
From the Not-So-Monday Morning Quarterback:
*Hey Huddy, BOOOOOOOOOOO! See you in July. Hope that ankle heals. Welcome back.
*Hey Brian Wilson, turning down the Yanks for the facial hair--that may have just landed you a stool in the Get Down Lounge!
*Have the Raiders found their QB of the future? Maybe just maybe in Matt McGloin. In some sort of weird way, perhaps the worm has indeed turned for the Silver and Black? Remember McGloin had to endure all of the Penn State Scandal, then he fails to get drafted, then he is sent to Purgatory with the Raiders. Well, well, well, after all of that, what do you know: NFL Starter. NFL winner even. There might be quite a story there?
*Speaking of stories, Colin Kaepernick sure has had roller coaster 12 months. From comfortable second stringer, to impeccable starter, to one play away from Super Bowl Champion, to over the top celebrity, to Sophomore Slump. Reminds a little of the movie the "Natural." Remember, in the end, the old sports writer, William Duvall, tells Robert Redford, "either way kid you are going to make me one heck of a story." This may be the same for Kap. Also makes you wonder if the off-the-field issues affecting the Niners? (Kap, you shouldn't have tempted the football gods by wearing the fish hat!)
*It sure looked like the Pats got hosed on Monday. Oh well. Tuck, Tuck, Tuck. I thought the Niners got a raw deal as well. Why not just play two hand touch on the quarterbacks?
*You know, the W's may just be for real. Hey ladies, that Nor Cal man in your life probably wouldn't mind a pair of W's tickets for Christmas! Make a weekend in Napa and a game, and everybody wins!
*So while the teams with the big bucks are posturing, the A's sign Nick Punto. Ideally Punto will Johny Gomesesque.
*Cal getting bashed over graduation rates--come on people, give the kids a break. By the way Bear Backers, when Aaron Rodgers and the Bears were rolling, did anybody mention gradutation rates? How about when J Kidd and his boys made a little run in the NCAA tourney. I didn't think so! Winning in athletics is such a tough gig, it takes a lot of simultaneous events in the universe, not easily accomplished--just ask Cub fans! Enjoy the wins, and the losses, well, just BOO HOO HOO. (Like those poor Georgia fans, that loss to Auburn, man oh man, an absolute killer.)
*As some of you know, I coach men's community college basketball. Watch one of our games, and you will see just about everything. As Jim McKay might say (you remember ABC's Wide World of Sports don't you?), the joy of victory and the agony of defeat. Our first win of the season comes on a 20 foot bank with 2.0 seconds to go. We also made our first 20 free throws, then of course miss the next two late in the game, then grab the rebound. Of course then there is the break away layup to put us three, followed by two tips that we MISS! Then, up one with 12 seconds to go we foul. The opponent makes both and we are down 1. Ish, ish, and more ish.
*Former Raider Todd Christensen recently passed at a much too young age of 57. TC was a heck of tight end, and also quite the personality. To TC and his family, I raise my glass.
*The pictures from the Santa Cruz woman of her baby, and that adorable little cuddly puppy, just adorable. Hey what can I say, we all have a sensitive side!
*Hey Huddy, BOOOOOOOOOOO! See you in July. Hope that ankle heals. Welcome back.
*Hey Brian Wilson, turning down the Yanks for the facial hair--that may have just landed you a stool in the Get Down Lounge!
*Have the Raiders found their QB of the future? Maybe just maybe in Matt McGloin. In some sort of weird way, perhaps the worm has indeed turned for the Silver and Black? Remember McGloin had to endure all of the Penn State Scandal, then he fails to get drafted, then he is sent to Purgatory with the Raiders. Well, well, well, after all of that, what do you know: NFL Starter. NFL winner even. There might be quite a story there?
*Speaking of stories, Colin Kaepernick sure has had roller coaster 12 months. From comfortable second stringer, to impeccable starter, to one play away from Super Bowl Champion, to over the top celebrity, to Sophomore Slump. Reminds a little of the movie the "Natural." Remember, in the end, the old sports writer, William Duvall, tells Robert Redford, "either way kid you are going to make me one heck of a story." This may be the same for Kap. Also makes you wonder if the off-the-field issues affecting the Niners? (Kap, you shouldn't have tempted the football gods by wearing the fish hat!)
*It sure looked like the Pats got hosed on Monday. Oh well. Tuck, Tuck, Tuck. I thought the Niners got a raw deal as well. Why not just play two hand touch on the quarterbacks?
*You know, the W's may just be for real. Hey ladies, that Nor Cal man in your life probably wouldn't mind a pair of W's tickets for Christmas! Make a weekend in Napa and a game, and everybody wins!
*So while the teams with the big bucks are posturing, the A's sign Nick Punto. Ideally Punto will Johny Gomesesque.
*Cal getting bashed over graduation rates--come on people, give the kids a break. By the way Bear Backers, when Aaron Rodgers and the Bears were rolling, did anybody mention gradutation rates? How about when J Kidd and his boys made a little run in the NCAA tourney. I didn't think so! Winning in athletics is such a tough gig, it takes a lot of simultaneous events in the universe, not easily accomplished--just ask Cub fans! Enjoy the wins, and the losses, well, just BOO HOO HOO. (Like those poor Georgia fans, that loss to Auburn, man oh man, an absolute killer.)
*As some of you know, I coach men's community college basketball. Watch one of our games, and you will see just about everything. As Jim McKay might say (you remember ABC's Wide World of Sports don't you?), the joy of victory and the agony of defeat. Our first win of the season comes on a 20 foot bank with 2.0 seconds to go. We also made our first 20 free throws, then of course miss the next two late in the game, then grab the rebound. Of course then there is the break away layup to put us three, followed by two tips that we MISS! Then, up one with 12 seconds to go we foul. The opponent makes both and we are down 1. Ish, ish, and more ish.
*Former Raider Todd Christensen recently passed at a much too young age of 57. TC was a heck of tight end, and also quite the personality. To TC and his family, I raise my glass.
*The pictures from the Santa Cruz woman of her baby, and that adorable little cuddly puppy, just adorable. Hey what can I say, we all have a sensitive side!
Friday, November 8, 2013
From Hot Stove to Hardwood
From The Get Down Lounge on a Friday Evening:
*The Hot Stove hasn't quite heated up, but it will shortly. Incidentally, for those of you who have a C Note burning a hole in your pocket, the A's are now listed in Vegas at 16 to 1 to win the World Series. The leader in the clubhouse, the Evil Empire, the Los Angeles Dodgers, at 7 to 1. The Gigantes come in at 18 to one.
*In the last 15 years the MLB team with the most World Series Appearances--the St. Louis Cardinals. The team with the most titles during that time frame, the Red Sox. I have a feeling we are going to continue to see lots of red in the upcoming mlb post seasons. With the balanced scheduling, I would think Bud and his gang could figure out a way for the World Series foes to square off the following season?
*Who will be the first major free agent chip to fall? There has been a lot of chatter surrounding Carlos Beltran. Japanese pitcher Masahiro Tanaka, and Braves catcher Brian McCann, also receiving lots of attention. How about Bartolo you say? My money is on the Dodgers.
*Brian Wilson still sits atop my A's wish list. Bullpen arms, bullpen arms, and more bullpen arms. I hope Billy brings in guys with arms of pure gas! Javier Lopez would be another great addition, you know, just to spice the relathionship with the Black and Orange neighbors.
*How about the W's tonight losing for the 30th time in a row in San Antonio. That is hard to believe. The W's lose by two, with Steph Curry not playing due to a knee injury--could it be that maybe just maybe the W's are for real?
*My NBA Finals prediction, Pacers and Thunder. The NBA may be in the midst of a changing of the guard--although I don't think King LeBron will go down quietly!
*Holy Toledo did the Raiders get roasted by the Eagles last Sunday in the O.Co. That game was UGLY.
Unless you are an Eagles fan of course! By the way, is it me, or is the NFL still primarily about Manning, Brady, Brees, and Rodgers? Add the Niners and Seahawks, and that is your NFL. I am not buying the Chiefs by the way. They are good, but they are not THAT good!
*All of that hazing talk in the NFL, just creepy isn't it?
*Here in Cen Cal, fans of Frenso State are starting to envision some serious Bowl Busting. Dogs could run the table--and Red Wavers do love to travel! I would contend Bulldog fan base #2 in California in college sports. I would rank the Trojans at number 1.
*Keep your hands off, this apparently is what college basketball officials will be calling this season. However the pride of Grass Valley Ca., Shasta's college's own Doc Kele Fitzhugh says, this just simply means calling the game as the rules are written. Doc, to you I raise my glass this evening!
*The Hot Stove hasn't quite heated up, but it will shortly. Incidentally, for those of you who have a C Note burning a hole in your pocket, the A's are now listed in Vegas at 16 to 1 to win the World Series. The leader in the clubhouse, the Evil Empire, the Los Angeles Dodgers, at 7 to 1. The Gigantes come in at 18 to one.
*In the last 15 years the MLB team with the most World Series Appearances--the St. Louis Cardinals. The team with the most titles during that time frame, the Red Sox. I have a feeling we are going to continue to see lots of red in the upcoming mlb post seasons. With the balanced scheduling, I would think Bud and his gang could figure out a way for the World Series foes to square off the following season?
*Who will be the first major free agent chip to fall? There has been a lot of chatter surrounding Carlos Beltran. Japanese pitcher Masahiro Tanaka, and Braves catcher Brian McCann, also receiving lots of attention. How about Bartolo you say? My money is on the Dodgers.
*Brian Wilson still sits atop my A's wish list. Bullpen arms, bullpen arms, and more bullpen arms. I hope Billy brings in guys with arms of pure gas! Javier Lopez would be another great addition, you know, just to spice the relathionship with the Black and Orange neighbors.
*How about the W's tonight losing for the 30th time in a row in San Antonio. That is hard to believe. The W's lose by two, with Steph Curry not playing due to a knee injury--could it be that maybe just maybe the W's are for real?
*My NBA Finals prediction, Pacers and Thunder. The NBA may be in the midst of a changing of the guard--although I don't think King LeBron will go down quietly!
*Holy Toledo did the Raiders get roasted by the Eagles last Sunday in the O.Co. That game was UGLY.
Unless you are an Eagles fan of course! By the way, is it me, or is the NFL still primarily about Manning, Brady, Brees, and Rodgers? Add the Niners and Seahawks, and that is your NFL. I am not buying the Chiefs by the way. They are good, but they are not THAT good!
*All of that hazing talk in the NFL, just creepy isn't it?
*Here in Cen Cal, fans of Frenso State are starting to envision some serious Bowl Busting. Dogs could run the table--and Red Wavers do love to travel! I would contend Bulldog fan base #2 in California in college sports. I would rank the Trojans at number 1.
*Keep your hands off, this apparently is what college basketball officials will be calling this season. However the pride of Grass Valley Ca., Shasta's college's own Doc Kele Fitzhugh says, this just simply means calling the game as the rules are written. Doc, to you I raise my glass this evening!
Saturday, November 2, 2013
To the Sox, $50 Milllion, and Bum!
From the Get Down Lounge:
*Congratulations to the Red Sox and their uptight and entertaining fan base. If anyone deserved a celebration it was you Boston! Live Strong People! The Red Sox won the strongest division in the MLB from wire to wire, then systematically disposed of the Tigers and the Cardinals. Well done Red Sox, well done.
*In case you were wondering, the highest payrolls in baseball according to Deadspin.com:
1. Yankees $228 Million;
2. Dodgers, $216 Million;
3. Philadelphia $159 Million;
4. Boston, $158 Million;
5. Detroit, $149 Million;
T6. San Fransisco and the Angels, $146 Million;
11. St. Louis, $116 Million;
26. Oakland, $68 Million;
27. Pittsburgh $66 Million;
28. Tampa $57 Million;
*So the way I see it, for the A's to make the World Series, they need to spend another cool $50 Million. Maybe I should upgrade my season Ticket Package huh?
*Speaking of spending dough, the Sawks did a tremendous job last off season. I thought the signing of Napoli was brilliant--his absence sorely hurt the Rangers. Drew looked completely healed in Boston--he was not moving that will in Oakland in 2012--again, a great pickup by their management team. Then there was the Vicortino signing, which gave Boston a great 2, 3, 4 combination. Of course there was my father's favorite player, and Northern California's own Johnny Gomes. The guy understands what team is all about! Those were all highly productive moves, however when you add the signing of all signings, Koji Uehara, man you are on to something. The Red Sox Front office was nails! Did I mention acquiring Jake Peavy at the deadline? Wow. Throw in an MVP season by lead off hitter and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, and voila, you have your World Series Champions. The return of the old John Lackey (an A's killer by the way) was the frosting on the cake.
*Following the Money, Hardball Talk has a list of 2014 Free Agents, and here are the top names:
1. Robinson Cano, second base;
2. Elsbury;
3. Masahiro Tanaka, Japanese professional pitcher;
4. Shin-Soo Choo, outfielder, and permanent member of the Get Down Lounge;
5. Matt Garza, pitcher; I am a little surprised he is this high--I have a feeling the Rangers are surprised too!
6. Ervin Santana, pitcher. Like Lackey, this guy has been an A's killer over the years.
7. Ulbaldo Jimenez, pitcher. For me, this hurler also ranked a little high.
8. Brian McCann, catcher. He has LA or New York written all over him. He would be higher on my list.
9. The Curtis "The Grandy Man" Granderson, outfielder;
10. Carlos Beltran, outfielder. Man Giants fans, a Pagan, Beltran, Pence outfield? Could have been.
19. Big Bart--I believe his time is done in Oakland. Thanks for the memories Big Guy, it was a good run!
21. Jason Vargas, pitcher. My sleeper A's acquisition. The guy has also been an A's killer over the years!
23. Brian Wilson, relief pitcher; dude would look good in Green and Gold spikes!
27. Johny Peralta, shortstop Tigers. Did I mention the A's needed to spend some $50 million to reach the series. Throw some cash Peralta's way!
28. Grant Balfour, reliever; No one has specifically said so, but Balfour's rage in the playoff game at Detroit, may have signaled his end to a nice little run in OTown.
51. Kevin Youkalis, corner infielder; Mr. Moneyball.
53. Michael Morse, outfielder/DH. Guy can crush lefties, would be a good platoon guy in the O.Co.
55. Javier Lopez, left-handed reliever; another guy to throw some of that $50 mill to!
If you need a baseball fix, that should get you started!
*How about the Rascal Raiders huh? Many, many prognosticators had them as the worst team in the NFL--and now look at those eye patches. With a win over the Eagles Sunday, they would be 4-4. In a wide open AFC, the would in the hunt for a wild card spot! All of a sudden the Boy Wonder Dennis Allen earning some love from Raider Nation. The Silver and Black's receiving corps simply not up to NFL standards, and their offensive line has been a revolving door due to injuries, yet they are hanging around. Had Pryor not been concussed in Denver, I say they would have beaten Washington. The Raiders a pretty amazing story. The reasons are simple: defense and disclipine. They no longer beat themselves, and bringing back Charles Woodson was part of a grand plan. The other main reason of course is T. Pryor. The guy is simply exciting to watch. Raiders fans haven't been this fired up since Bo knew football. I am telling you, on more stud lineman on each side of the ball, and a play making receiver, and the Silver and Black may well be back!
*A couple of weeks ago good old Bum Phillips passed. Those of you around 45 or so man remember that brief time when the Oilers were the darlings of the NFL. Early Campbell and Bum Phillips seemed liked two guys who just wanted to put their work hat on, and not worry about the glitz and glamour--in other words, they were the Kings of the Common Class. Sing it with me, because I know you remember the song: "Houston Oilers, Houston Oilers, Houston Oilers Number one. We've go the offense, we've got the defense....." great tune, great time. My eyes are tearing up thinking of Billy White Shoes Johnson, and all of those white pom poms. It was a great run. If they could have just gotten by that rotten Steel Curtain!
*Speaking of the South, if you like college football, it's the Canes and Noles today getting it on!
*So to Bum, Earl, and of course Johnny Gomes, I raise my Smithwick's to you gentlemen!
*Congratulations to the Red Sox and their uptight and entertaining fan base. If anyone deserved a celebration it was you Boston! Live Strong People! The Red Sox won the strongest division in the MLB from wire to wire, then systematically disposed of the Tigers and the Cardinals. Well done Red Sox, well done.
*In case you were wondering, the highest payrolls in baseball according to Deadspin.com:
1. Yankees $228 Million;
2. Dodgers, $216 Million;
3. Philadelphia $159 Million;
4. Boston, $158 Million;
5. Detroit, $149 Million;
T6. San Fransisco and the Angels, $146 Million;
11. St. Louis, $116 Million;
26. Oakland, $68 Million;
27. Pittsburgh $66 Million;
28. Tampa $57 Million;
*So the way I see it, for the A's to make the World Series, they need to spend another cool $50 Million. Maybe I should upgrade my season Ticket Package huh?
*Speaking of spending dough, the Sawks did a tremendous job last off season. I thought the signing of Napoli was brilliant--his absence sorely hurt the Rangers. Drew looked completely healed in Boston--he was not moving that will in Oakland in 2012--again, a great pickup by their management team. Then there was the Vicortino signing, which gave Boston a great 2, 3, 4 combination. Of course there was my father's favorite player, and Northern California's own Johnny Gomes. The guy understands what team is all about! Those were all highly productive moves, however when you add the signing of all signings, Koji Uehara, man you are on to something. The Red Sox Front office was nails! Did I mention acquiring Jake Peavy at the deadline? Wow. Throw in an MVP season by lead off hitter and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, and voila, you have your World Series Champions. The return of the old John Lackey (an A's killer by the way) was the frosting on the cake.
*Following the Money, Hardball Talk has a list of 2014 Free Agents, and here are the top names:
1. Robinson Cano, second base;
2. Elsbury;
3. Masahiro Tanaka, Japanese professional pitcher;
4. Shin-Soo Choo, outfielder, and permanent member of the Get Down Lounge;
5. Matt Garza, pitcher; I am a little surprised he is this high--I have a feeling the Rangers are surprised too!
6. Ervin Santana, pitcher. Like Lackey, this guy has been an A's killer over the years.
7. Ulbaldo Jimenez, pitcher. For me, this hurler also ranked a little high.
8. Brian McCann, catcher. He has LA or New York written all over him. He would be higher on my list.
9. The Curtis "The Grandy Man" Granderson, outfielder;
10. Carlos Beltran, outfielder. Man Giants fans, a Pagan, Beltran, Pence outfield? Could have been.
19. Big Bart--I believe his time is done in Oakland. Thanks for the memories Big Guy, it was a good run!
21. Jason Vargas, pitcher. My sleeper A's acquisition. The guy has also been an A's killer over the years!
23. Brian Wilson, relief pitcher; dude would look good in Green and Gold spikes!
27. Johny Peralta, shortstop Tigers. Did I mention the A's needed to spend some $50 million to reach the series. Throw some cash Peralta's way!
28. Grant Balfour, reliever; No one has specifically said so, but Balfour's rage in the playoff game at Detroit, may have signaled his end to a nice little run in OTown.
51. Kevin Youkalis, corner infielder; Mr. Moneyball.
53. Michael Morse, outfielder/DH. Guy can crush lefties, would be a good platoon guy in the O.Co.
55. Javier Lopez, left-handed reliever; another guy to throw some of that $50 mill to!
If you need a baseball fix, that should get you started!
*How about the Rascal Raiders huh? Many, many prognosticators had them as the worst team in the NFL--and now look at those eye patches. With a win over the Eagles Sunday, they would be 4-4. In a wide open AFC, the would in the hunt for a wild card spot! All of a sudden the Boy Wonder Dennis Allen earning some love from Raider Nation. The Silver and Black's receiving corps simply not up to NFL standards, and their offensive line has been a revolving door due to injuries, yet they are hanging around. Had Pryor not been concussed in Denver, I say they would have beaten Washington. The Raiders a pretty amazing story. The reasons are simple: defense and disclipine. They no longer beat themselves, and bringing back Charles Woodson was part of a grand plan. The other main reason of course is T. Pryor. The guy is simply exciting to watch. Raiders fans haven't been this fired up since Bo knew football. I am telling you, on more stud lineman on each side of the ball, and a play making receiver, and the Silver and Black may well be back!
*A couple of weeks ago good old Bum Phillips passed. Those of you around 45 or so man remember that brief time when the Oilers were the darlings of the NFL. Early Campbell and Bum Phillips seemed liked two guys who just wanted to put their work hat on, and not worry about the glitz and glamour--in other words, they were the Kings of the Common Class. Sing it with me, because I know you remember the song: "Houston Oilers, Houston Oilers, Houston Oilers Number one. We've go the offense, we've got the defense....." great tune, great time. My eyes are tearing up thinking of Billy White Shoes Johnson, and all of those white pom poms. It was a great run. If they could have just gotten by that rotten Steel Curtain!
*Speaking of the South, if you like college football, it's the Canes and Noles today getting it on!
*So to Bum, Earl, and of course Johnny Gomes, I raise my Smithwick's to you gentlemen!
Saturday, October 26, 2013
California Dreaming
On a Beautiful, California Fall Day
*Does it get any better than October weather in California?
*The more I think about it, the more I like this idea: The A's should spend some bucks and sign both Grant Balfour and Brian Wilson. Talk about your Killa B's! They could B the most entertaining relief tandem in the history of the Sport. Sure, they both may have a little trouble sharing the limelight, but let's be realistic, both of them aren't exactly spring chickens. Maybe there will be a little brawling in the pen as well--bring it on I say, bring it on. The Oakland A's, and O.Co would be an ideal host for these two characters. Most importantly, if the A's are ever to win the Trophy, they need a lights out pen.
*Skimming through a list of would be free agents, two other names jumped out--the first, is Kevin YOU-ka-lis (Youkalis). The Greek God of walks yes siree. He could play a little first, third and DH. Look at the cast of personalities....trying to win the whole thing, but let's have a little fun along the way!
*Icihiro is the other player I would love to see in Green and Gold. He is such and anti-A hitting wise, I sure would love to see him take his funky swings versus Verlander and Shurzer. Icihiro, Wilson, Balfour now that would give the O.Co patrons something to Rage about!
*Taking in a little KNBR 680 replay the other night, I was struck by a conversation my man Gary Radnich was having with his co-hosts. (Radnich a former baller at UNLV back in the day!) The topic was the idea of who the most recognizable player in MLB is or are? Good question. Has MLB done a poor job of marketing its product on a national basis? Thus who is the most recognizable player. My top 3: Big Poppy, Mike Trout, and Yasiel Puig. Perhaps that is my playoff mind, while Derek Jeter, ARod and Mariono Rivera would also make the list! It made me think MLB needs to go back to a National Game once a week, spreading the love around. Interesting conversation and topic by the KNBR crew. (Too bad they don't cover the A's and Raiders a little more!) Maybe MLB is still America's pastime, but not its passion? Who is most reconizeable: LeBron James, Payton Manning, or insert any MLB player here. Heck, is Tiger Woods next on the list?
*This could turn out to be one heck of a World Series. I feel for Red Sox reliever Craig Breslow who chucked one into the seats down the third base line. First of all, a left fielder with a decent arm, and Red Sox are up 2-0. Then, Breslow, a genius by athletic standards, backs up the play, has to scoot away from the umpire and his catcher; sees Drew standing on 3rd with the 3rd baseman nearby. Just a weird, weird play. I wonder with the stands at Fenway so close to the field, if somehow the throw didn't appear to be easier? Breslow always has appeared to me like a stand up guy. (I am a little surprised at his success-I view him as solid MLB reliever, not a guy I want on the bump with the Trophy on the line!) Did the curse of the Bambino re-emerge, or was it the Ghost of Manny? Oohh, jeepers Red Sox fans!
*Ironic that Carlos Beltran and Matt Holiday--two former Bay Area outfielders involved in key trades, are playing such key roles in the World Series. Baseball sure does lend itslelf to marvelous stories!
*To a great weekend!
*Does it get any better than October weather in California?
*The more I think about it, the more I like this idea: The A's should spend some bucks and sign both Grant Balfour and Brian Wilson. Talk about your Killa B's! They could B the most entertaining relief tandem in the history of the Sport. Sure, they both may have a little trouble sharing the limelight, but let's be realistic, both of them aren't exactly spring chickens. Maybe there will be a little brawling in the pen as well--bring it on I say, bring it on. The Oakland A's, and O.Co would be an ideal host for these two characters. Most importantly, if the A's are ever to win the Trophy, they need a lights out pen.
*Skimming through a list of would be free agents, two other names jumped out--the first, is Kevin YOU-ka-lis (Youkalis). The Greek God of walks yes siree. He could play a little first, third and DH. Look at the cast of personalities....trying to win the whole thing, but let's have a little fun along the way!
*Icihiro is the other player I would love to see in Green and Gold. He is such and anti-A hitting wise, I sure would love to see him take his funky swings versus Verlander and Shurzer. Icihiro, Wilson, Balfour now that would give the O.Co patrons something to Rage about!
*Taking in a little KNBR 680 replay the other night, I was struck by a conversation my man Gary Radnich was having with his co-hosts. (Radnich a former baller at UNLV back in the day!) The topic was the idea of who the most recognizable player in MLB is or are? Good question. Has MLB done a poor job of marketing its product on a national basis? Thus who is the most recognizable player. My top 3: Big Poppy, Mike Trout, and Yasiel Puig. Perhaps that is my playoff mind, while Derek Jeter, ARod and Mariono Rivera would also make the list! It made me think MLB needs to go back to a National Game once a week, spreading the love around. Interesting conversation and topic by the KNBR crew. (Too bad they don't cover the A's and Raiders a little more!) Maybe MLB is still America's pastime, but not its passion? Who is most reconizeable: LeBron James, Payton Manning, or insert any MLB player here. Heck, is Tiger Woods next on the list?
*This could turn out to be one heck of a World Series. I feel for Red Sox reliever Craig Breslow who chucked one into the seats down the third base line. First of all, a left fielder with a decent arm, and Red Sox are up 2-0. Then, Breslow, a genius by athletic standards, backs up the play, has to scoot away from the umpire and his catcher; sees Drew standing on 3rd with the 3rd baseman nearby. Just a weird, weird play. I wonder with the stands at Fenway so close to the field, if somehow the throw didn't appear to be easier? Breslow always has appeared to me like a stand up guy. (I am a little surprised at his success-I view him as solid MLB reliever, not a guy I want on the bump with the Trophy on the line!) Did the curse of the Bambino re-emerge, or was it the Ghost of Manny? Oohh, jeepers Red Sox fans!
*Ironic that Carlos Beltran and Matt Holiday--two former Bay Area outfielders involved in key trades, are playing such key roles in the World Series. Baseball sure does lend itslelf to marvelous stories!
*To a great weekend!
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Big Poppy and Little Poppy Versus the Rebirds
From the Get Down Lounge:
*Well this is an easy one--since I think the Red Sox are going to win in 6 or 7 games, I am going with the Cards in 5! For what it is worth, of all the fan bases I have seen in recent years, the Cardinals sported the cutest--that has got to be worh something!
*I have to admit last night I sure was having a case of baseball withdrawals. In fact, I was thinking just how nice it would have been if the East Bay team was hosting. Sigh. Oh well....game 7 could have been in Oakland on Halloween, sniff, sniff.
*Hard to go against a team that his The Little Poppy in the 3 hole, followed by Big Poppy batting cleanup. Dustin Pedroia is a stick and has no strike zone. Big Poppy is well, Big Poppy.
*I sure wish the A's would have taken a flyer on Brian Wilson. He would have looked great in yellow spikes!
*Is there a player out there who fits the role of Mr. Kill-Joy than Matt Holiday (I think he is a Giants fan by the way!)? When it comes to personality, he is no Johny Gomes--but who gets to hoist the cup?
*So, if the Moneyball A's don't traditionally spend a lot of dough on bullpen arms, couldn't the argument by made perhaps, just perhaps that is why the A's struggle so Charlie Brown mightily in the post season? Brian Wilson Billy, AARGH!
*Speaking of bullpens, in recent years it seems like the teams who win all, don't cough up late leads in the playoffs--or leads in general?
*It looks like the stadium situation has died down--I wondered, it was a little weird for San Jose to sue, but what if the A's sued? Hum.....maybe with Bud gone, Lou will then try the courts? Of course MLB has another interesting case in court with A-Rod. Stay tuned.
*The Giants gave Timmy a lot of money. Must be nice huh? Chump change comared to what the Dodger$ will spend however. It sure feels like the Evil Empire now wears blue!
*Still waiting on Bud's blue-ribbon panel to tell us their findings regarding the A's desire to move to San Jose. Really? Bud is going to step down and wash his hands of that one.
*Raiders haven't one a game in 10 years after a bye, and in coming the hated Steelers (as least hated by old school fans). Oh, if the Raiders win this one, the Black Hole will one big smile! Ka-ching! As if a gizillion replays of Gibson's homer off of Eck wasn't enough, now we will get to see the Immaculate Reception over and over and over. Yuck.
*Seems like the W's should worry about making the playoffs again--there is a lot of chatter about the contending for a title. Ish, ish, and more ish. Steph Curry is a joy to watch play, but those ankles of his a little brittle. I just worry about the W's fans.
*So the Partriots think they got a bad deal on a rare, obscure NFL penalty? Well color me Tuck. Know, imagine if that was in a playoff game.
*To Mark Ellis, my spouse's favorite A, congrats on a nice post season run. You definitely were a great pro and a solid guy? I wonder how the Dodger clubhouse is going to be without you around? I know he hasn't retired, yet.
*To Brian Kelly, head coach of the Irish--if I raise my glass to you and your team, will you bust out the Green jerseys a little more often?
*To all the fans in Boston and St. Louis, you both have great places to take in a ballgame--to all of you, I raise my glass, and here is to a fanatical week for all of you. Sniff, sniff.
*Well this is an easy one--since I think the Red Sox are going to win in 6 or 7 games, I am going with the Cards in 5! For what it is worth, of all the fan bases I have seen in recent years, the Cardinals sported the cutest--that has got to be worh something!
*I have to admit last night I sure was having a case of baseball withdrawals. In fact, I was thinking just how nice it would have been if the East Bay team was hosting. Sigh. Oh well....game 7 could have been in Oakland on Halloween, sniff, sniff.
*Hard to go against a team that his The Little Poppy in the 3 hole, followed by Big Poppy batting cleanup. Dustin Pedroia is a stick and has no strike zone. Big Poppy is well, Big Poppy.
*I sure wish the A's would have taken a flyer on Brian Wilson. He would have looked great in yellow spikes!
*Is there a player out there who fits the role of Mr. Kill-Joy than Matt Holiday (I think he is a Giants fan by the way!)? When it comes to personality, he is no Johny Gomes--but who gets to hoist the cup?
*So, if the Moneyball A's don't traditionally spend a lot of dough on bullpen arms, couldn't the argument by made perhaps, just perhaps that is why the A's struggle so Charlie Brown mightily in the post season? Brian Wilson Billy, AARGH!
*Speaking of bullpens, in recent years it seems like the teams who win all, don't cough up late leads in the playoffs--or leads in general?
*It looks like the stadium situation has died down--I wondered, it was a little weird for San Jose to sue, but what if the A's sued? Hum.....maybe with Bud gone, Lou will then try the courts? Of course MLB has another interesting case in court with A-Rod. Stay tuned.
*The Giants gave Timmy a lot of money. Must be nice huh? Chump change comared to what the Dodger$ will spend however. It sure feels like the Evil Empire now wears blue!
*Still waiting on Bud's blue-ribbon panel to tell us their findings regarding the A's desire to move to San Jose. Really? Bud is going to step down and wash his hands of that one.
*Raiders haven't one a game in 10 years after a bye, and in coming the hated Steelers (as least hated by old school fans). Oh, if the Raiders win this one, the Black Hole will one big smile! Ka-ching! As if a gizillion replays of Gibson's homer off of Eck wasn't enough, now we will get to see the Immaculate Reception over and over and over. Yuck.
*Seems like the W's should worry about making the playoffs again--there is a lot of chatter about the contending for a title. Ish, ish, and more ish. Steph Curry is a joy to watch play, but those ankles of his a little brittle. I just worry about the W's fans.
*So the Partriots think they got a bad deal on a rare, obscure NFL penalty? Well color me Tuck. Know, imagine if that was in a playoff game.
*To Mark Ellis, my spouse's favorite A, congrats on a nice post season run. You definitely were a great pro and a solid guy? I wonder how the Dodger clubhouse is going to be without you around? I know he hasn't retired, yet.
*To Brian Kelly, head coach of the Irish--if I raise my glass to you and your team, will you bust out the Green jerseys a little more often?
*To all the fans in Boston and St. Louis, you both have great places to take in a ballgame--to all of you, I raise my glass, and here is to a fanatical week for all of you. Sniff, sniff.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Keep on Keeping On....Spotlight on South Bend
Way Down in The Get Down Lounge, Man Cave Style:
*MLB pretty much got what they wanted huh: the Northeast and LA markets with a splash of the Midwest throw in? Both LCS' are actually pretty compelling, but I just have got to say.....I can't help but go back to game 4 of the LDS, in Detroit, A's leading the Tigres 3-0. To me it all started when Fielder hit a high pop up and Cespy didn't come up with. Two batters later Peralta went yard, and another Green and Gold playoff Downer was on the way. I love the playoffs. The playoffs make me ill.
*The way the Red Sox held off the Tigers last night, made me wonder: was the acquisition of the year the Sawks pick up of reliever Koji Uehara. I love that name by way--put him in the Get Down Lounge Registry! Uehara actually had a very solid season for the Texas Rangers in 2012. This series now gets real interesting with Shurzer and Verlander set to go for games 6 and 7 in Fenway. There has been a lot of chatter about what a surprise the Red Sox have been in 2013. Maybe, but I ain't drinking that kool aid--I would take Pedroia and Ortiz any day, in any lineup!
*One little piece in yahoo perked me up some. The article suggested the A's should make a run at free-agent to be Carlos Beltran. They paid Chris Young 8 mill this season, why not give that to Beltran. Two years, 16 million, OK so that's done. Next move, how about the Green and Gold making a play for Tricky little Timmy Lincecum? Now that would make things interesting? How about making Timmy the closer, a la the Eck. OOHH, that would be spicey. See you at In and Out Timmy!
*Did Zito take out an ad when he followed the money across the Bay? Just curious?
*The Cardinals/Dodger series simply hard for me to get excited about. I mean the Cardinals are hard not to like, but what about them makes em loveable? The Dodgers, ish, are a lesson in economics--spend a gizillion and you should get a decent return. Seriously though, is their sports franchise who gets more love for accomplishing what? There was Orel and Kirk, in 1988; that great 70's infield never hoisted the cup in the 70's; there was Drysdale and Koufax. OK, fine, and the big wow is? Jackie Robinson perhaps, hey now that is great story. If it weren't for their rivalry with the Giants....I am just saying. Lots of glitz......for 6 titles, two in the 80's, and two each in the 50's and 60's.
*As I gets colder and seasons change, so will my appetite for other sports--watching Raider games a pretty rough chore. One thing that has clearly changed is that they aren't the knucklehead Raiders of years past. They actually play pretty solid, their offense just isn't very good. T. Pryor is entertaining, but when your best play is a when all things break down so your QB can imrprovise, oh brother. Next year's draft and offseason will make or break for GM Reggie McKenzie and Head Coach Dennis Allen. They need to address the offensive line, and add a durable playmaker. Time will tell.
*Interesting series of articles in the SF Chronicle this week on Sports Specialization. I have noticed and wonder over the years, due kids still play sports because they want to--or is it simply because parents want them too? All play seems so organized. It seems to me sports has become more about the scholarship or the "prize" than simply playing because kids love to play? In my humble opinion, professional athletes were sprinkled with "sports dust" at birth. Now, they have to work at their craft to reach the top of their fields, but athletic prowness is in the genetic code. Man, I am starting to sound like an old guy!
*You know what I just realized....Saturday is that game of games, Notre Dame and Southern Cal. The storied teams, the bands, the SC Song Girls, the Green Jerseys, does it get any better? To all of you SC and Irish fans out there, to Joe Montana and Marcus Allen, here is to splendid and chilly Fall evening in South Bend Indiana. Love that Golden Dome, and Touchdown Jesus always welcome in the Lounge! To Knute Rocke--now that is a Football name-I raise my glass!
*MLB pretty much got what they wanted huh: the Northeast and LA markets with a splash of the Midwest throw in? Both LCS' are actually pretty compelling, but I just have got to say.....I can't help but go back to game 4 of the LDS, in Detroit, A's leading the Tigres 3-0. To me it all started when Fielder hit a high pop up and Cespy didn't come up with. Two batters later Peralta went yard, and another Green and Gold playoff Downer was on the way. I love the playoffs. The playoffs make me ill.
*The way the Red Sox held off the Tigers last night, made me wonder: was the acquisition of the year the Sawks pick up of reliever Koji Uehara. I love that name by way--put him in the Get Down Lounge Registry! Uehara actually had a very solid season for the Texas Rangers in 2012. This series now gets real interesting with Shurzer and Verlander set to go for games 6 and 7 in Fenway. There has been a lot of chatter about what a surprise the Red Sox have been in 2013. Maybe, but I ain't drinking that kool aid--I would take Pedroia and Ortiz any day, in any lineup!
*One little piece in yahoo perked me up some. The article suggested the A's should make a run at free-agent to be Carlos Beltran. They paid Chris Young 8 mill this season, why not give that to Beltran. Two years, 16 million, OK so that's done. Next move, how about the Green and Gold making a play for Tricky little Timmy Lincecum? Now that would make things interesting? How about making Timmy the closer, a la the Eck. OOHH, that would be spicey. See you at In and Out Timmy!
*Did Zito take out an ad when he followed the money across the Bay? Just curious?
*The Cardinals/Dodger series simply hard for me to get excited about. I mean the Cardinals are hard not to like, but what about them makes em loveable? The Dodgers, ish, are a lesson in economics--spend a gizillion and you should get a decent return. Seriously though, is their sports franchise who gets more love for accomplishing what? There was Orel and Kirk, in 1988; that great 70's infield never hoisted the cup in the 70's; there was Drysdale and Koufax. OK, fine, and the big wow is? Jackie Robinson perhaps, hey now that is great story. If it weren't for their rivalry with the Giants....I am just saying. Lots of glitz......for 6 titles, two in the 80's, and two each in the 50's and 60's.
*As I gets colder and seasons change, so will my appetite for other sports--watching Raider games a pretty rough chore. One thing that has clearly changed is that they aren't the knucklehead Raiders of years past. They actually play pretty solid, their offense just isn't very good. T. Pryor is entertaining, but when your best play is a when all things break down so your QB can imrprovise, oh brother. Next year's draft and offseason will make or break for GM Reggie McKenzie and Head Coach Dennis Allen. They need to address the offensive line, and add a durable playmaker. Time will tell.
*Interesting series of articles in the SF Chronicle this week on Sports Specialization. I have noticed and wonder over the years, due kids still play sports because they want to--or is it simply because parents want them too? All play seems so organized. It seems to me sports has become more about the scholarship or the "prize" than simply playing because kids love to play? In my humble opinion, professional athletes were sprinkled with "sports dust" at birth. Now, they have to work at their craft to reach the top of their fields, but athletic prowness is in the genetic code. Man, I am starting to sound like an old guy!
*You know what I just realized....Saturday is that game of games, Notre Dame and Southern Cal. The storied teams, the bands, the SC Song Girls, the Green Jerseys, does it get any better? To all of you SC and Irish fans out there, to Joe Montana and Marcus Allen, here is to splendid and chilly Fall evening in South Bend Indiana. Love that Golden Dome, and Touchdown Jesus always welcome in the Lounge! To Knute Rocke--now that is a Football name-I raise my glass!
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Rats!
Fenway Seems So Far Away.....
*Man oh man I was hoping to be watching the Green and Gold play in Fenway today! Yesterday actually didn't feel so, but man, today, the Journey song "Lights" keeps playing in my head!
*One item really irked me after that stinging series with the Tigers. Can you guess? It was the Tigers little "Haka" dance right there on the diamond--OUR DIAMOND! If they had class, IF, they would have celebrated in the locker room, man style. At home, celebrate on the field--on the road, show some class and celebrate in YOUR locker room. We will see how the Baseball Gods treat the Dodgers. Respect the game--one could argue, Grant Balfour didn't do the A's any favors in Game 3 with his antics.
*This series really stings. I mean really stings. Game 4 was there for the taking--more on that later. This series right up there with the 2003 series with the Red Sox, remember that one? Some high and low lights:
The A's led series 2-0 heading back to Boston. Game 1 was won on the Ramon Hernandez walk-off bunt; Game 3 was the infamous Burns not touching home plate and Tejada stopped running to tru and bait the interference call--Sox win on a extra inning walk off--against my favorite A at the time, the electric Rich Harder. Game 4, up early, Burns just misses a homer down the right field line that would have put the A's up big early. Up 4-3 late, Keith Foulke gives up a two run double to Big Poppy. Sick yet. Then in game 5, A's have 2-1 lead when Zito gives up bomb to Manny. In the bottom of the ninth, with the bases juiced and one out, Manager Ken Macha pinch hits for Jermaine Dye. Adam Melhous strikes out, and so does Terrance Long. AARGH. The agony begins.
*Thus, the recents series with Detroit right up there as far as painful. The A's led 3-0 in Game 4 after Bret Lowrie's 2 run homer. Dean Strailey proceeds' to caugh one up to series Stealth MVP Johny Peralta and the game is tied. A's retake the lead 4-3. The the key moment. Doolittle pitching to Victor Martinez-remember him-president of the Grant Balfour fan club? BoMel opts to turn VMar around. Martinez hadn't hurt the A's from the right side. All of sudden, it's boom. Tie Game. Crowd interference--maybe. The dude did hit the ball a long way. Blame it on Bud Selig--Mr. Incompetence is the only commissioner who allows that kind of crap to happen in professional sports. (A's fans, Detroit and Bud, should always hear from us whenever we see either of the two!). A's led twice and could not seal the deal.
*Thus, what the A's need to win it all, it's great pitching across the board. Good pitching won't cut it. Good pitching gets the A's in it--they need great pitching to win it. Hitters cost too much dough. Pitching can be had--and I would contend it must be had, to win it all! The A's scored enough--they could have won Game 4. The could not hold the lead. Simple as that. If you really want to get depressed, go back to Game 2 in Detroit in 2012. A's had the lead again--even after Coco's drop! They need a lights out pen, and one front line starter. I contend, if the A's would have acquired Jake Peavy, and added Brian Wilson to their pen, the A's would indeed be looking into the eyes of the Green Monster!
*Nothing better than participating in the post season; nothing worse, than losing in the post season!
*At this point, St. Louis winning is the only team that won't turn my stomach. I have issues.
*Flipping the channel this morning, the Texas Oklahoma game is raging along. The "Red River War" one the great traditions in College Football. I was a little surprised to hear Brent Musberger calling the game--look out cute coeds! (Have you seen Brent's favorite Arkansas coed on the Carl's Junior commercial?) My eight year old loves it. Hum. The game played in the Cotton Bowl. Classic. Texas/OU, Notre Dame/USC, Michigan/Ohio State, and throw in Alabama/LSU (Bama vs Tennessee and Bama vs Auburn honorable mention), those are games, BIG games! I have to throw in a Georgia Florida game, or Miami vs Florida game. That is my top 5!
*To all of you Green and Gold towel waivers, it was a good run, good run indeed. AAARRRGHHHH!
Thursday, October 10, 2013
It's a Perfect Sonny Gray Day!
Tonight could be epic.
In Oaktown, it's the kid vs. the veteran. It's Moneyball vs. the Hired Guns. It's two pretty evenly matched ball clubs, battling it out for a little piece of immortality! It is the joy of victory and the agony of defeat. Tonight indeed could be a classic. For the A's this game could be a springboard to something to something absolutely spectacular, or another in a series of heart-through-the-throat defeats. If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best, so as the people at Budweiser like to say, "Here we go!"
Some thoughts from the Get Down Lounge:
*Will BoMel get Albert Callapso's bat in the lineup? Would he sit Reddick to start, and save his glove for the late innings--the mass media has failed to notice that in August, when the A's rolled in and took 3 out 4 in Detroit, Reddick was hurt. I can envision Seth Smith in right field, and Big Al DHing. It would be a gutsy move, but this is a winner take all evening!
*Which begs the question, are the A's really in it to win it, or simply in it for an outside chance to win it? Jake Peavy would have looked great in this rotation, in fact, I would have loved to have seen him on the bump Tuesday in the Motor City. Regardless of how the A's do this fall, the team could use an Ace and one more power arm or two in the pen. This a team pretty much in it's prime. Here is hoping tonight is the start of something BIG!
*Good old Bud Selig, geesh. Why do you let fans sit where they can disrupt the game? It happened in Yankee stadium years ago, and it happened in Detroit. I think Bud likes controversy--it keeps his sport in the news. In no other major profession sport, do the fans have an opportunity to interfere on a great play.
Only in Bud's game. You must be proud Bud, you must be proud. Wail until it happens to the Brewers Bud.
*The O.Co will be rocking. The SF Chronicle has an interesting story today, that winning can fuel a push for a new stadium. Humm....kind of hard to imagine life without the Oakland Alameda Coliseum--could this be her final moment in the spotlight?
*Who will rise to be the hero today? My money is on Cespedes--that is if Verlander will throw to him. Eric Sogard has been pretty quite all series too; then of course, there is always Stephen Vogt--a big knock and he is a folk hero forever. Even Reddick, he of the wild swings, could square one up and be the difference maker.
On a crisp, cool, autumn Northern California Day, the stage is set: get those drums ready (and guardian angels too!), today appears to be a perfect Sonny Gray Day!
(***Remineder, Pink has a cocert this evening in the Arena--nice scheduling huh? Arrive early!)
In Oaktown, it's the kid vs. the veteran. It's Moneyball vs. the Hired Guns. It's two pretty evenly matched ball clubs, battling it out for a little piece of immortality! It is the joy of victory and the agony of defeat. Tonight indeed could be a classic. For the A's this game could be a springboard to something to something absolutely spectacular, or another in a series of heart-through-the-throat defeats. If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best, so as the people at Budweiser like to say, "Here we go!"
Some thoughts from the Get Down Lounge:
*Will BoMel get Albert Callapso's bat in the lineup? Would he sit Reddick to start, and save his glove for the late innings--the mass media has failed to notice that in August, when the A's rolled in and took 3 out 4 in Detroit, Reddick was hurt. I can envision Seth Smith in right field, and Big Al DHing. It would be a gutsy move, but this is a winner take all evening!
*Which begs the question, are the A's really in it to win it, or simply in it for an outside chance to win it? Jake Peavy would have looked great in this rotation, in fact, I would have loved to have seen him on the bump Tuesday in the Motor City. Regardless of how the A's do this fall, the team could use an Ace and one more power arm or two in the pen. This a team pretty much in it's prime. Here is hoping tonight is the start of something BIG!
*Good old Bud Selig, geesh. Why do you let fans sit where they can disrupt the game? It happened in Yankee stadium years ago, and it happened in Detroit. I think Bud likes controversy--it keeps his sport in the news. In no other major profession sport, do the fans have an opportunity to interfere on a great play.
Only in Bud's game. You must be proud Bud, you must be proud. Wail until it happens to the Brewers Bud.
*The O.Co will be rocking. The SF Chronicle has an interesting story today, that winning can fuel a push for a new stadium. Humm....kind of hard to imagine life without the Oakland Alameda Coliseum--could this be her final moment in the spotlight?
*Who will rise to be the hero today? My money is on Cespedes--that is if Verlander will throw to him. Eric Sogard has been pretty quite all series too; then of course, there is always Stephen Vogt--a big knock and he is a folk hero forever. Even Reddick, he of the wild swings, could square one up and be the difference maker.
On a crisp, cool, autumn Northern California Day, the stage is set: get those drums ready (and guardian angels too!), today appears to be a perfect Sonny Gray Day!
(***Remineder, Pink has a cocert this evening in the Arena--nice scheduling huh? Arrive early!)
Labels:
Callapso,
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Who will emerge the Game 5 Hero?
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Raging On!
Is A Golden Age Upon Us?
*Grant Balfour made things perfectly clear in Detroit yesterday: His team is not and will not back down from anyone! Wow, what a game, and what a ninth inning! After the ruckus, the A's now lead the Tigers 2-1, with game 4 tonight. Wow, whew, and wow. Balfour is who he is, and although the timing was quite peculiar with a 3 run lead in the 9th, the message he aired is still vibrating in the Motor City: "Don't bleeping mess with us, we are for real."
*For the second consecutive game injured Tiger Star Miguel Cabrera failed to come up with a ground ball at a key time in the game. You may recall on Saturday, in Oakland, the ninth inning started with a Cespedes ground ball just to the left of Cabrera. Yesterday a tough hop led to an error and an early A's lead. Cabrera was one who got up in the dish of Balfour during the ninth inning "walkabout." A question for Tiger manager Jim "Old School" Leyland might be why not move Peralta to third and DH Cabrera?
*Cespedes, IS a lot like Reggie. When they lights are on, so are they! Each of them both loved to spread mustard so to speak, and both can do things that make you shake your head, oh but man oh man when they are dialed in, amazing feats are possible!
*The environment in Oakland on Saturday simply the best. Early on it was Tori Hunter pointing at superstar-in-waiting Sonny Gray that awoke the boo juices in the 48,000 green and gold dressed fans. Later in the top of the 5th, the Tigers would eventually have runners on first and third with one out--you could feel the collective, "oh oh" in the stadium. (The Tigers did so without a ball leaving the infield--gulp!) One pitch, a full count strike 'em out, throw 'em out double play to end the inning, and the crowd was gassed! Not only did vagabond catcher Stephen Hoyt have the game winning hit, but that play in the 5th was a huge momentum shift. From that point on, the A's and Gray never looked back. Sonny Sonny Sonny, classic.
*Fast forward to the bottom of the ninth, and consecutive single by Cespedes and reborn comedian Seth Smith got things rolling. I thought both of those balls could have been corralled by nimbler corner infielders?
Smith by the way, with his side kick Brandon Moss, were hilarious during there interviews after the game Monday. Smith tends to run hot and cold, and if he could stay hot for another couple of weeks, that would bode extremely well for the A's making a successfull run!
*The bullpen has been fantastic thus far. Former Giant Dan Otero continues to impress--if you notice, he doesn't give up many deep fly balls--and Doolittle and Balfour seem to be packing their "A" games. Ryan Cook could still be a key factor, but I envision Brett Anderson sealing the deal this evening. Just a hunch, but I can see the lefty finishing off for Dan Strailey this evening.
*Perhaps, just perhaps, this is a ball club just hitting it's stride. Back in the 70's, the A's lost to the Orioles in 1971, before that magical ride of back-to-back-championships in 1972-74. The A's are a mix of young guys, with not-so-young guys, but guys in their prime, sprinkled in with a few veterans name Coco, Balfour, and Bartolo. Tonight they have an opportunity to make a real statement. (They actually have two chances, but I would prefer they seal the deal tonight in Detroit, rather than return to the O.Co to face Shurzer and Verlander on Thursday.
*Immediately after the game on Saturday work crews started working the on stadium, transforming the baseball configuration into a Football Field. Just like the 70's. Props to the Raider crowd for being there crazy selves late into the Sunday Night. Terrelle Pryor may just be the real deal, and in fact, the Raiders are a mere couple of plays and a concussion away from being 4-1. Might we be in the midst of another Golden Age--or perhaps The Golden Age-of Bay Area professional sports? Stay tuned.
*By the way, growing handlebars on the old mustache a real chore. I am getting there, but slowly. As they say, it's a process! To all Bay Area sports fans, I raise my glass to you!
*Pssttt, hey SF Giants fans, it did look weird watching Brian Wilson in Dodger Blue. Remember when he first wore those bright orange shoes? Anyway, will he be the Dodgers Lucky Charm, or will he be a curse with his Black Beard?
*Grant Balfour made things perfectly clear in Detroit yesterday: His team is not and will not back down from anyone! Wow, what a game, and what a ninth inning! After the ruckus, the A's now lead the Tigers 2-1, with game 4 tonight. Wow, whew, and wow. Balfour is who he is, and although the timing was quite peculiar with a 3 run lead in the 9th, the message he aired is still vibrating in the Motor City: "Don't bleeping mess with us, we are for real."
*For the second consecutive game injured Tiger Star Miguel Cabrera failed to come up with a ground ball at a key time in the game. You may recall on Saturday, in Oakland, the ninth inning started with a Cespedes ground ball just to the left of Cabrera. Yesterday a tough hop led to an error and an early A's lead. Cabrera was one who got up in the dish of Balfour during the ninth inning "walkabout." A question for Tiger manager Jim "Old School" Leyland might be why not move Peralta to third and DH Cabrera?
*Cespedes, IS a lot like Reggie. When they lights are on, so are they! Each of them both loved to spread mustard so to speak, and both can do things that make you shake your head, oh but man oh man when they are dialed in, amazing feats are possible!
*The environment in Oakland on Saturday simply the best. Early on it was Tori Hunter pointing at superstar-in-waiting Sonny Gray that awoke the boo juices in the 48,000 green and gold dressed fans. Later in the top of the 5th, the Tigers would eventually have runners on first and third with one out--you could feel the collective, "oh oh" in the stadium. (The Tigers did so without a ball leaving the infield--gulp!) One pitch, a full count strike 'em out, throw 'em out double play to end the inning, and the crowd was gassed! Not only did vagabond catcher Stephen Hoyt have the game winning hit, but that play in the 5th was a huge momentum shift. From that point on, the A's and Gray never looked back. Sonny Sonny Sonny, classic.
*Fast forward to the bottom of the ninth, and consecutive single by Cespedes and reborn comedian Seth Smith got things rolling. I thought both of those balls could have been corralled by nimbler corner infielders?
Smith by the way, with his side kick Brandon Moss, were hilarious during there interviews after the game Monday. Smith tends to run hot and cold, and if he could stay hot for another couple of weeks, that would bode extremely well for the A's making a successfull run!
*The bullpen has been fantastic thus far. Former Giant Dan Otero continues to impress--if you notice, he doesn't give up many deep fly balls--and Doolittle and Balfour seem to be packing their "A" games. Ryan Cook could still be a key factor, but I envision Brett Anderson sealing the deal this evening. Just a hunch, but I can see the lefty finishing off for Dan Strailey this evening.
*Perhaps, just perhaps, this is a ball club just hitting it's stride. Back in the 70's, the A's lost to the Orioles in 1971, before that magical ride of back-to-back-championships in 1972-74. The A's are a mix of young guys, with not-so-young guys, but guys in their prime, sprinkled in with a few veterans name Coco, Balfour, and Bartolo. Tonight they have an opportunity to make a real statement. (They actually have two chances, but I would prefer they seal the deal tonight in Detroit, rather than return to the O.Co to face Shurzer and Verlander on Thursday.
*Immediately after the game on Saturday work crews started working the on stadium, transforming the baseball configuration into a Football Field. Just like the 70's. Props to the Raider crowd for being there crazy selves late into the Sunday Night. Terrelle Pryor may just be the real deal, and in fact, the Raiders are a mere couple of plays and a concussion away from being 4-1. Might we be in the midst of another Golden Age--or perhaps The Golden Age-of Bay Area professional sports? Stay tuned.
*By the way, growing handlebars on the old mustache a real chore. I am getting there, but slowly. As they say, it's a process! To all Bay Area sports fans, I raise my glass to you!
*Pssttt, hey SF Giants fans, it did look weird watching Brian Wilson in Dodger Blue. Remember when he first wore those bright orange shoes? Anyway, will he be the Dodgers Lucky Charm, or will he be a curse with his Black Beard?
Labels:
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Brian Wilson,
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football stadium,
Golden Age,
Grant Balfour,
Handlebar Mustaches,
Miquel Cabrera,
O.Co,
Terrelle Pryor,
the 70's and The Golden Age,
Tori Hunter,
Yoenis Cespedes
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Break the Cycle, Break the Cycle Charlie Brown!
From the Bowels of an A's Fan.....
*Arrrghhh! Since 2000, the A's have appeared in 6 post seasons, and up until today they are a little like watching a horror movie. Let's begin on a positive note, there was that great little series versus Minnesota in 2006, remember? Mark Kotsay hit the inside-the-park-home run when then Minnesota Twin misplayed what should have been a single. Then in Game 3, Marco Scutaro had the huge game, the end result was a serenade of Marco.....Scutaro....throughout the Coli. (I believe the Scutaro clip is on You Tube?) Sure there was the bunt walk off by Ramon Hernadez in 2003, and back in 2000 when the surprised the Yankees and stretched the series to 5 games. Since then, a whole lot of last night, what could, would have, maybe even should have. From the Jeter Flip, to Mad Max, all I can say is AAAARRRRGHHHHHH!
*Thus after last night's 3-2 loss to Mad Max and the Nemesis #1 Detroit Tigers, some would say it's only one game. True. This is a pretty gritty A's team. I beg to differ because now comes the Verbeast, Justin Verlander. Gulp. The A's must scratch a run early and get a lead--in fact even better play from the lead. I am just nauseous. I will be up in section 228 if you would like to calm my nerves this evening.
*Here is breakdown of last night's game from the Get Down Lounge.
1. To begin, why was Josh Reddick batting sixth? If he plays, he bats eigth. The guy has struggled all year at the plate. His at bat in the second, with Cespy on third and no outs, a pivotal moment in the game. The A's needed to scratch a run early, and the simply could not do it! Uh, the old Yoda line comes to mind, "there is no try, either do or not do." Aaaarghhhhh! I expect to see Callapso or Smith batting sixth tonight, and throughout the rest of the series. Red Dog dig make however a simply wonderful throw in the 5th to nab the not so fleet footed Victor Martinez. Red Dog can play D know, so if he plays, move him down in the lineup BoMel, please?
2. There were three hard hit balls that the A's could not field that were the differnce in the game. Two were hit up the middle--one went right through Colon, and the other was a wiff by Lowrie. Both balls were scorched, but this is Big Boy Time (you know, no crying, and nobody cares if you do!). Then there was the grounder that somehow eluded Barton at first. Aaarghhhhhh!
3. Cespedes came up big, with his bat. In fact he was the only one who had an idea of how to hit Mad Max. You may remember, last year in Game 4, Mad Max was also lights out, it was the bullpen that choked up the game in that memorable Oakland 4-3 win. Clearly that 95 plus heater mixed in with that low 80's off speed stuff just too much for the Green and Gold. If there is a Game 5, I don't want to think about, and I just don't want to wish ill will on Mad Max, so I will move on from here for a moment......
4. I just had a feeling the A's had to score 3 runs, in fact, I wouldn't be surprised at all to see another 3-2 game this evening. Dan Otero was solid by the way--has anyone noticed he looks a lot like Houston Street?
Sean Doolittle was back to Dr. Doolittle.
5. That make tonight a Big, Big, Big Boy game. Our man, the cool rook Sonny Gray gets the call on the hill. I hope this begins a run that my kids will be talking about for the next few years. So Sonny, eat your favorite breakfast young man, it's your time. Big Bart may have been a tad nervous to start the game last night. When he hit Hunter, that was my first oh oh. He did settle down, but good wont be good enough.
6. BoMel could have gone with Young to pinch hit in the eight, but I liked the choice of Big Al. His at bat--a called third strike--another oh oh.
*In the end, the A's must continue to play like the hunter--they may have been just a little, little tight last night.
They will need a couple of big bops tonight against Verland, and perhaps too a few small wallops. Scratch and claw Athletics, scratch and claw. Here is to a "Sonny" evening in Oaktown.
*Arrrghhh! Since 2000, the A's have appeared in 6 post seasons, and up until today they are a little like watching a horror movie. Let's begin on a positive note, there was that great little series versus Minnesota in 2006, remember? Mark Kotsay hit the inside-the-park-home run when then Minnesota Twin misplayed what should have been a single. Then in Game 3, Marco Scutaro had the huge game, the end result was a serenade of Marco.....Scutaro....throughout the Coli. (I believe the Scutaro clip is on You Tube?) Sure there was the bunt walk off by Ramon Hernadez in 2003, and back in 2000 when the surprised the Yankees and stretched the series to 5 games. Since then, a whole lot of last night, what could, would have, maybe even should have. From the Jeter Flip, to Mad Max, all I can say is AAAARRRRGHHHHHH!
*Thus after last night's 3-2 loss to Mad Max and the Nemesis #1 Detroit Tigers, some would say it's only one game. True. This is a pretty gritty A's team. I beg to differ because now comes the Verbeast, Justin Verlander. Gulp. The A's must scratch a run early and get a lead--in fact even better play from the lead. I am just nauseous. I will be up in section 228 if you would like to calm my nerves this evening.
*Here is breakdown of last night's game from the Get Down Lounge.
1. To begin, why was Josh Reddick batting sixth? If he plays, he bats eigth. The guy has struggled all year at the plate. His at bat in the second, with Cespy on third and no outs, a pivotal moment in the game. The A's needed to scratch a run early, and the simply could not do it! Uh, the old Yoda line comes to mind, "there is no try, either do or not do." Aaaarghhhhh! I expect to see Callapso or Smith batting sixth tonight, and throughout the rest of the series. Red Dog dig make however a simply wonderful throw in the 5th to nab the not so fleet footed Victor Martinez. Red Dog can play D know, so if he plays, move him down in the lineup BoMel, please?
2. There were three hard hit balls that the A's could not field that were the differnce in the game. Two were hit up the middle--one went right through Colon, and the other was a wiff by Lowrie. Both balls were scorched, but this is Big Boy Time (you know, no crying, and nobody cares if you do!). Then there was the grounder that somehow eluded Barton at first. Aaarghhhhhh!
3. Cespedes came up big, with his bat. In fact he was the only one who had an idea of how to hit Mad Max. You may remember, last year in Game 4, Mad Max was also lights out, it was the bullpen that choked up the game in that memorable Oakland 4-3 win. Clearly that 95 plus heater mixed in with that low 80's off speed stuff just too much for the Green and Gold. If there is a Game 5, I don't want to think about, and I just don't want to wish ill will on Mad Max, so I will move on from here for a moment......
4. I just had a feeling the A's had to score 3 runs, in fact, I wouldn't be surprised at all to see another 3-2 game this evening. Dan Otero was solid by the way--has anyone noticed he looks a lot like Houston Street?
Sean Doolittle was back to Dr. Doolittle.
5. That make tonight a Big, Big, Big Boy game. Our man, the cool rook Sonny Gray gets the call on the hill. I hope this begins a run that my kids will be talking about for the next few years. So Sonny, eat your favorite breakfast young man, it's your time. Big Bart may have been a tad nervous to start the game last night. When he hit Hunter, that was my first oh oh. He did settle down, but good wont be good enough.
6. BoMel could have gone with Young to pinch hit in the eight, but I liked the choice of Big Al. His at bat--a called third strike--another oh oh.
*In the end, the A's must continue to play like the hunter--they may have been just a little, little tight last night.
They will need a couple of big bops tonight against Verland, and perhaps too a few small wallops. Scratch and claw Athletics, scratch and claw. Here is to a "Sonny" evening in Oaktown.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
It's the Most Wonderful Time...
*From the Get Down Lounge....Post Season Style!
*Well, well, well, it's almost here. The Big, Bad, Tigers most likely are in route to Oakland today! I had my emotions under check until yesterday, and know I am starting to perculate. As I predicted, it will be Shurzer and Verbeast pitching on Friday and Saturday. Colon gets the call Friday, with Sonny Gray surprising on the bump Saturday. BoMel's tweak in the rotation moves Jarrod Parker to Monday in Detroit. The change in the rotation spot on. Let the rookie pitch at home, and move Parker to Detroit, where he can erase his ghosts from a year ago. It also allows Parker--who has pitched many, many important innings for the A's the past two years--a couple of more days of rest. Down the road, Parker's arm will be needed to hoist the trophy in the O.Co.
*I envision this series coming down to the left-handed bats of the Green and Gold. A typical formula for post season success is for someone like Eric "Nerd Power" Sogard, or even back from the dead Daric Barton to go yard. And yard. While there is no question Coco, must do his part, and Lowrie, must get on base, my crystal ball says Brandon Moss is going to play Tiger Killer. With chants of MVP MVP humming throughout the O.Co, Josh Donaldson will also play big, but it is going to be Moss that puts them over the top. Cespedes is such a wild card in this whole series, however I do expect a little magic to be seen blasted from his bat! The pride of Visalia Stephen Vogt is another candidate for hero--perhaps similar to Gene Tenace back in 1972. I wouldn't be surprised if Vogt puts one into the A's Zanies out in right field.
*With my Green and Gold lenses firmly entrenched, I say the A's go for the jugular. Game 1, Moss jumps on Mad Max early, and leads the A's to a 6-2 win. In game two, with the O.Co, and the likes of my eight year old son going ballistic, the A's scratch a run early, and hold on to slay the Monster that is Justin Verlander 3-1. Sonny Gray becomes the next Vida Blue, and I am going to say it is Cespedes that provides the insurance. Game 3 in Detroit, the A's bust out. Donaldson leads the way with not one but two homers. A's roll 8-3, although I am really thinking double digits. With a little help from Tampa, the A's return to the O.Co next Friday, October 11.
*Speaking of Tampa, they are playing with house money. Boston on the other hand, and all of their beards, hard to bet against. Tampa, Boston, Tampa, Boston, aargh all right, Tampa. Tampa is playing with house money right now after knocking off Texas and Clevland. I envision all of these games to be great, compelling theatre, including all the Red Sox fans who will show up in Tampa. Rays in 4--could be 5--but hey, when you are on a roll.....well....Evan Longoria will prove why he is a star. Three, 3-2 wins for the Rays, Red Sox win one in a blowout.
*Over in the NL, I am going with the Stealth team, you know, the team under the radar. It is really hard to go against the Dodgers, they of the 42-8 run, but that is exactly why I am going with the Braves--that and the Coca Cola glass sitting on my table. Braves stun Majic and Co.; this could be a sweep as well, but I see 4 games. Braves fans get some redemption for that boneheaded Infield Fly Call gag last fall. In St. Louis, it's the feel good story, those pesky Pirates. The Pirates though are just thrilled to be dancing, and that gives the Red Birds the edge. Cards in 5.
*The Tarps coming off is indeed a great story--if the seats are filled! I don't like people to tell me when to stand or what to buy, so I don't have an opinion either way. I just know it has been a pretty long time since the East Bay has felt like the top dog, and I think old school fans are returning are digging into their wallets and pulling out their cowbells! Although rarely mentioned, if ever, is that fans of the Green and Gold have been inspired by the Golden Age of baseball played across the Bay. Not like anyone is keeping score (4-2 to be exact in titles; 6-5 in appearances), the Bay Area sports fan is all about the bragging rights. This weekend will be like the old Day on the Greens in the O.Co, as the place will be rocking.
*Man is Matt Flynn that bad or Terrelle Pryor that good--or both? Pryor reminds me of when Vince Young did his thing for Longhorns. The Raiders are still at least one draft away from being real good in my opinion. Flynn's pick 6 when his team up 14-3, man that was a career killer. I used to feel bad for the guy, real bad, then I heard something that made me say, "hmmm." Flynn had one great game a couple of years ago versus the Seahawks, on the final game of the season. Perhaps the Hawks had flown the coup? Flynn seems like a real stand up guy, but that pick six, ouch. Double ouch was McInjured being hurt again. Just when the Raiders needed him to be a star, his hammy is a hurting. Mr. McKenzie, your first 3 picks in the 2104 NFL Draft: offensive line, defensive line, and durable running back!
*Well to the Ghosts of Charlie Finley, Catfish Hunter, and the Mustache Gang of the early 70's, I raise my glass to you this morning. May your spirits be causing havoc this weekend in the O.Co--just like in '72 when the A's slid by the Tigers (Reggie stole home in Game 5 remember?) on their way to Cincinnati.
Play Ball!
*I mentioned the Gag of last post season my the umpiring crew, buy why do they add an two extra umpires for post season games only? Makes no sense to me. Why change the game? I have never, never, liked the concept. Shuttiing down the goverment another concept that doesn't make a lot of sense either?
*Okay O.Co, get your pipes ready, the people will be a coming!
*Well, well, well, it's almost here. The Big, Bad, Tigers most likely are in route to Oakland today! I had my emotions under check until yesterday, and know I am starting to perculate. As I predicted, it will be Shurzer and Verbeast pitching on Friday and Saturday. Colon gets the call Friday, with Sonny Gray surprising on the bump Saturday. BoMel's tweak in the rotation moves Jarrod Parker to Monday in Detroit. The change in the rotation spot on. Let the rookie pitch at home, and move Parker to Detroit, where he can erase his ghosts from a year ago. It also allows Parker--who has pitched many, many important innings for the A's the past two years--a couple of more days of rest. Down the road, Parker's arm will be needed to hoist the trophy in the O.Co.
*I envision this series coming down to the left-handed bats of the Green and Gold. A typical formula for post season success is for someone like Eric "Nerd Power" Sogard, or even back from the dead Daric Barton to go yard. And yard. While there is no question Coco, must do his part, and Lowrie, must get on base, my crystal ball says Brandon Moss is going to play Tiger Killer. With chants of MVP MVP humming throughout the O.Co, Josh Donaldson will also play big, but it is going to be Moss that puts them over the top. Cespedes is such a wild card in this whole series, however I do expect a little magic to be seen blasted from his bat! The pride of Visalia Stephen Vogt is another candidate for hero--perhaps similar to Gene Tenace back in 1972. I wouldn't be surprised if Vogt puts one into the A's Zanies out in right field.
*With my Green and Gold lenses firmly entrenched, I say the A's go for the jugular. Game 1, Moss jumps on Mad Max early, and leads the A's to a 6-2 win. In game two, with the O.Co, and the likes of my eight year old son going ballistic, the A's scratch a run early, and hold on to slay the Monster that is Justin Verlander 3-1. Sonny Gray becomes the next Vida Blue, and I am going to say it is Cespedes that provides the insurance. Game 3 in Detroit, the A's bust out. Donaldson leads the way with not one but two homers. A's roll 8-3, although I am really thinking double digits. With a little help from Tampa, the A's return to the O.Co next Friday, October 11.
*Speaking of Tampa, they are playing with house money. Boston on the other hand, and all of their beards, hard to bet against. Tampa, Boston, Tampa, Boston, aargh all right, Tampa. Tampa is playing with house money right now after knocking off Texas and Clevland. I envision all of these games to be great, compelling theatre, including all the Red Sox fans who will show up in Tampa. Rays in 4--could be 5--but hey, when you are on a roll.....well....Evan Longoria will prove why he is a star. Three, 3-2 wins for the Rays, Red Sox win one in a blowout.
*Over in the NL, I am going with the Stealth team, you know, the team under the radar. It is really hard to go against the Dodgers, they of the 42-8 run, but that is exactly why I am going with the Braves--that and the Coca Cola glass sitting on my table. Braves stun Majic and Co.; this could be a sweep as well, but I see 4 games. Braves fans get some redemption for that boneheaded Infield Fly Call gag last fall. In St. Louis, it's the feel good story, those pesky Pirates. The Pirates though are just thrilled to be dancing, and that gives the Red Birds the edge. Cards in 5.
*The Tarps coming off is indeed a great story--if the seats are filled! I don't like people to tell me when to stand or what to buy, so I don't have an opinion either way. I just know it has been a pretty long time since the East Bay has felt like the top dog, and I think old school fans are returning are digging into their wallets and pulling out their cowbells! Although rarely mentioned, if ever, is that fans of the Green and Gold have been inspired by the Golden Age of baseball played across the Bay. Not like anyone is keeping score (4-2 to be exact in titles; 6-5 in appearances), the Bay Area sports fan is all about the bragging rights. This weekend will be like the old Day on the Greens in the O.Co, as the place will be rocking.
*Man is Matt Flynn that bad or Terrelle Pryor that good--or both? Pryor reminds me of when Vince Young did his thing for Longhorns. The Raiders are still at least one draft away from being real good in my opinion. Flynn's pick 6 when his team up 14-3, man that was a career killer. I used to feel bad for the guy, real bad, then I heard something that made me say, "hmmm." Flynn had one great game a couple of years ago versus the Seahawks, on the final game of the season. Perhaps the Hawks had flown the coup? Flynn seems like a real stand up guy, but that pick six, ouch. Double ouch was McInjured being hurt again. Just when the Raiders needed him to be a star, his hammy is a hurting. Mr. McKenzie, your first 3 picks in the 2104 NFL Draft: offensive line, defensive line, and durable running back!
*Well to the Ghosts of Charlie Finley, Catfish Hunter, and the Mustache Gang of the early 70's, I raise my glass to you this morning. May your spirits be causing havoc this weekend in the O.Co--just like in '72 when the A's slid by the Tigers (Reggie stole home in Game 5 remember?) on their way to Cincinnati.
Play Ball!
*I mentioned the Gag of last post season my the umpiring crew, buy why do they add an two extra umpires for post season games only? Makes no sense to me. Why change the game? I have never, never, liked the concept. Shuttiing down the goverment another concept that doesn't make a lot of sense either?
*Okay O.Co, get your pipes ready, the people will be a coming!
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Get Ready O.Co!
From the Get Down Lounge on a Beautiful Fall Morning, West Coast Style!
*Well, well, well, well, well, by defeating King Felix and his court last night up in Seattle, the A's have assured themselves of hosting the League Division Series (LDS) next Friday and Saturday (October 4th and 5th.) It sure looks like it's going to be those Big, Bad, Tigers--again. (The Tigers have ended the A's season in 2006 and 2012.) If the A's win the next two, and Boston were to lose the final two, then the A's would host the Wild Card Winner. It ain't gonna happen. Next Friday, here come the Big, Bad, A's-Killing Tigers. It's going to be Verbeast (my clever little name for "former" A's killer Justin Verlander,) and 21 game winner Mad Max Shurzer. Gulp, gulp, and more gulp! The A's have not officially announced their rotation yet, but it is going to be the Ageless one on Friday, Bartolo Colon, and then Jarod "Popeye" Parker on Saturday.
Our main man Sonny Gray will pitch on Monday on Detroit, and hopefully, that will be that!
*Speaking of the Wild Card, we have to give Bud the Sludge Selig (Bud is Major League Baseball's Commissioner) credit for adding a second wild card! The American League Wild Card race is still up int he air with Texas a game behind Tampa and Cleveland. Sludge also gets credit for interleague play--I do miss booing Barry Bonds! However, when it comes to getting a new stadium for the A's, well Sludge, you are just balking. It would be so poetic for Sludge to be standing in sewer water while handing the World Series Trophy over to his old crony and A's co-owner Lew Wolf! (Moneyball II, baby, Moneyball II!) My sarcastic and cynical side will have you note it is eye raising that Sludge announces his retirement--really Bud, thanks for your time, but your upcoming retirement simply tooting your own kazoo--maybe to distract the media from his own Brewer, Carlos Gomez, and his most embarrassing MLB at bat and home run ever! Once again, in my humble opinion, the national media let Bud of the hook for his handling of that affair?
See you in the O.Co Bud, and pull up your boots!
*Good news, for you die hard Raider and A's fans, and I know you exist, you could be looking at a home Raider game next Sunday--now that is a weekend, A's playoff game Friday and Saturday, followed by Raider home game Sunday. My guess is the Silver and Black's game on Sunday will be moved either to the evening, or to Monday. Either way, that will mean a whole heck of a lot of human waste moving through the pipes of the O.Co in a very short time frame. I smell a problem....oh Mr. Sludge, or you watching!
*By the way, Braves catcher Brian McCann, for the way he stopped Gomez from crossing the plate--he has a permanent spot in the Get Down Lounge. That is how you do it BMcCann! (If you haven't seen the play I am referring to, google Carlos Gomez hits home run versus the Atlanta Braves--see for yourself.)
*Put this on the radar--Cleveland manager Terry Tito Francona leading his new team to Boston to face his old team? That would be a spicy match up. Speaking of Cleveland, remember that home run call that went against Oakland? Well, even though it would have only tied the game, that was one tuck of a call. Let's just say the Indians make the playoffs by a game, or the A's fail to earn home field advantage by a game. Hey Bud, are you paying attention? That single call-or non call--by power hungry and visually challenged Angel Hernandez may in the end by the call that stalls! That is one Angel we should not see over any one's shoulders in the postseason!
*To a great weekend!
*Well, well, well, well, well, by defeating King Felix and his court last night up in Seattle, the A's have assured themselves of hosting the League Division Series (LDS) next Friday and Saturday (October 4th and 5th.) It sure looks like it's going to be those Big, Bad, Tigers--again. (The Tigers have ended the A's season in 2006 and 2012.) If the A's win the next two, and Boston were to lose the final two, then the A's would host the Wild Card Winner. It ain't gonna happen. Next Friday, here come the Big, Bad, A's-Killing Tigers. It's going to be Verbeast (my clever little name for "former" A's killer Justin Verlander,) and 21 game winner Mad Max Shurzer. Gulp, gulp, and more gulp! The A's have not officially announced their rotation yet, but it is going to be the Ageless one on Friday, Bartolo Colon, and then Jarod "Popeye" Parker on Saturday.
Our main man Sonny Gray will pitch on Monday on Detroit, and hopefully, that will be that!
*Speaking of the Wild Card, we have to give Bud the Sludge Selig (Bud is Major League Baseball's Commissioner) credit for adding a second wild card! The American League Wild Card race is still up int he air with Texas a game behind Tampa and Cleveland. Sludge also gets credit for interleague play--I do miss booing Barry Bonds! However, when it comes to getting a new stadium for the A's, well Sludge, you are just balking. It would be so poetic for Sludge to be standing in sewer water while handing the World Series Trophy over to his old crony and A's co-owner Lew Wolf! (Moneyball II, baby, Moneyball II!) My sarcastic and cynical side will have you note it is eye raising that Sludge announces his retirement--really Bud, thanks for your time, but your upcoming retirement simply tooting your own kazoo--maybe to distract the media from his own Brewer, Carlos Gomez, and his most embarrassing MLB at bat and home run ever! Once again, in my humble opinion, the national media let Bud of the hook for his handling of that affair?
See you in the O.Co Bud, and pull up your boots!
*Good news, for you die hard Raider and A's fans, and I know you exist, you could be looking at a home Raider game next Sunday--now that is a weekend, A's playoff game Friday and Saturday, followed by Raider home game Sunday. My guess is the Silver and Black's game on Sunday will be moved either to the evening, or to Monday. Either way, that will mean a whole heck of a lot of human waste moving through the pipes of the O.Co in a very short time frame. I smell a problem....oh Mr. Sludge, or you watching!
*By the way, Braves catcher Brian McCann, for the way he stopped Gomez from crossing the plate--he has a permanent spot in the Get Down Lounge. That is how you do it BMcCann! (If you haven't seen the play I am referring to, google Carlos Gomez hits home run versus the Atlanta Braves--see for yourself.)
*Put this on the radar--Cleveland manager Terry Tito Francona leading his new team to Boston to face his old team? That would be a spicy match up. Speaking of Cleveland, remember that home run call that went against Oakland? Well, even though it would have only tied the game, that was one tuck of a call. Let's just say the Indians make the playoffs by a game, or the A's fail to earn home field advantage by a game. Hey Bud, are you paying attention? That single call-or non call--by power hungry and visually challenged Angel Hernandez may in the end by the call that stalls! That is one Angel we should not see over any one's shoulders in the postseason!
*To a great weekend!
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Hooray for USA Today!
Notes From the Tuesday Morning Quarterback:
*Great, great article in the USA Today regarding why your Oakland Athletics are just so darn likable! I've been trying to tell you! I always liked that former Hornet Alum Tom Hanks!
*With a more than a week two go, how about this juicy little League Division Series: Rangers vs. Oakland. If that series comes down the pike, and the Tigers face the Red Sox, once again Grandpa Bud Selig will be smiling all the way to the bank!
*It will be interesting to see if all of the Tarp seats do indeed sell for the Playoffs? If I were the A's, I would have gone one Tarp at a time based on tickets sold. Lew Wolf with Ray Fosse on Comcast hard to take last night. In case you missed it, Wolf a co-owner and the unofficial spokesman for the team, dissed the A's fans earlier in the week. Fosse is the color commentator for the A's on Comcast. Ray may have taken a few too many shots to the dome--in fact you may remember images of Pete Rose plowing him over in that early 70's All Star Game? It's is hard to explain the catcher-centric announcer's style--you really have to hear it. Hard not to like Foss, I just wish he would work on his "delivery." (I can guarantee you, at some point you will shake your head, and say eh, what did he just say?)
*Great for Pirates fans all over the world--unless of course they are also Steelers fans. (With the Pirates and Steelers, who came up with Penguins?) Whew, that's enough hockey!
*So, If I recall the Raiders were 15 1/2 point underdogs last night, and sure enough they lose by 16! Why not go for two? Makes you wonder? The Raiders are one draft away from being really good. The need a couple of snot blowing interior lineman on both sides of the ball. Add a big-time receiver, and this team will could be good. Pryor may have went to well a little too often last night, and reports are out that he suffered a concussion. Matt Flinn, this could be your chance with the struggling Redskins coming to town.
*Weird (and sad) deal across the bay, or should I say in Santa Clara? Aldon Smith's personal issues impacted the 49ers in a negative way--and it's not over. Smith is a superior player in every way, but Raiders fans remember two years ago when a likely playoff bound team was derailed by an off-the-field even by Rolando McClain. Events such as these, absolute momentum changers for a team. All eyes and ears are on Coach Harbaugh now. The next couple of weeks will be worth paying attention to see how the master media manipulator and team motivator handles this "problem."
*Is it me, or is it practically impossible to NOT LIKE Andrew Luck? Luck's father is former NFL QB Oliver Luck. Perhaps his parents should write a parenting book? (Luck or Schmuck?) Just a thought.
*Why do some folks celebrate Octoberfest in September? Is that an oxymoron?
*Great, great article in the USA Today regarding why your Oakland Athletics are just so darn likable! I've been trying to tell you! I always liked that former Hornet Alum Tom Hanks!
*With a more than a week two go, how about this juicy little League Division Series: Rangers vs. Oakland. If that series comes down the pike, and the Tigers face the Red Sox, once again Grandpa Bud Selig will be smiling all the way to the bank!
*It will be interesting to see if all of the Tarp seats do indeed sell for the Playoffs? If I were the A's, I would have gone one Tarp at a time based on tickets sold. Lew Wolf with Ray Fosse on Comcast hard to take last night. In case you missed it, Wolf a co-owner and the unofficial spokesman for the team, dissed the A's fans earlier in the week. Fosse is the color commentator for the A's on Comcast. Ray may have taken a few too many shots to the dome--in fact you may remember images of Pete Rose plowing him over in that early 70's All Star Game? It's is hard to explain the catcher-centric announcer's style--you really have to hear it. Hard not to like Foss, I just wish he would work on his "delivery." (I can guarantee you, at some point you will shake your head, and say eh, what did he just say?)
*Great for Pirates fans all over the world--unless of course they are also Steelers fans. (With the Pirates and Steelers, who came up with Penguins?) Whew, that's enough hockey!
*So, If I recall the Raiders were 15 1/2 point underdogs last night, and sure enough they lose by 16! Why not go for two? Makes you wonder? The Raiders are one draft away from being really good. The need a couple of snot blowing interior lineman on both sides of the ball. Add a big-time receiver, and this team will could be good. Pryor may have went to well a little too often last night, and reports are out that he suffered a concussion. Matt Flinn, this could be your chance with the struggling Redskins coming to town.
*Weird (and sad) deal across the bay, or should I say in Santa Clara? Aldon Smith's personal issues impacted the 49ers in a negative way--and it's not over. Smith is a superior player in every way, but Raiders fans remember two years ago when a likely playoff bound team was derailed by an off-the-field even by Rolando McClain. Events such as these, absolute momentum changers for a team. All eyes and ears are on Coach Harbaugh now. The next couple of weeks will be worth paying attention to see how the master media manipulator and team motivator handles this "problem."
*Is it me, or is it practically impossible to NOT LIKE Andrew Luck? Luck's father is former NFL QB Oliver Luck. Perhaps his parents should write a parenting book? (Luck or Schmuck?) Just a thought.
*Why do some folks celebrate Octoberfest in September? Is that an oxymoron?
Labels:
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Sunday, September 22, 2013
Moneyball II; and Elightened Fan Base Indeed, and Travel Planning
On the Couch, Sipping on a Latte, Glancing at Your Favorite Sunday Paper:
*Speaking of the Dodgers, their little pool party in Arizona quite humorous. Sure if I am a Diamondback player or fan, I might not find the humor. Hey if you don't want people swimming in your pool, drain the water! Or don't let 'em beat you. (Isn't that entire pool thing a little off anyway?) Regardless, always refreshing to see grown men having a little spontaneous fun--especially millionaires!
*Double standard? While A's fans were publicly thrown under the bus, again, for the crowds this week, they were not acknowledged for snatching up playoff tickets, and for the removal of the Tarps off of the upper deck for the upcoming playoffs. So, let's see, fan base spends hard earned money on playoff tickets, rather than attend go see the Angels and Twins--who are a combined 40 plus games out of first place in their respective divisions--and get chastised? For what, being financially prudent? Dave Ramsey, where are you? I just don't get it? Even A's radio announcer was almost begging people to come out to the game Sunday for once in lifetime "feeling" of a division clinching game. Really Vince? Well, Vinny how about a little history lesson? A's won the division in 1971, 72, 73, 74, and 75; In 1981, during a strike shortened season the A's won the first half title; then again the A's capture the title in 1988, 89, 90, and 1992. The younger generations remember titles in 2000, 2002, 2003, 2006, and 2012! Clinching titles is cool, but it does not compare to the postseason! With the Tigers, Red Sox, and Dodgers on the possible horizon, read it here first: A's fan base clearly a most enlightened group! (World Series Tickets not cheap! Playoff tickets are reasonable.) Speaking of seeing the light, it was packed for Star Wars Fireworks Night on Friday, and the A's did not disappoint! The kids love the show too. (In fact you can always count on a last one Wave appearance--and on Friday the Wave was rocking.) Might I suggest Firework Fridays?
*Along a similar line, another peeve of mine is being told to stand up. I hate that. Regardless of the situation, I feel a person should stand because they want to--because they are excited! Don't tell me to stand, I will stand when I feel in the fire in the belly! So back of the A's attendance, and back off telling me to get excited. You will know when I am excited! So many great stories about the A's are yet to be written, I wish the people with the power would lay off the crappy ones!
*Fresno State Bulldog Nation is excited. The Dogs held off Enemy #1, the Mighty Boise State Broncos 41-40. Red Wavers have been closely examining the schedule, and the Dogs could indeed run the table. Red Wavers up and down Central California are still doing the jig from Friday's win! See, you don't have to tell folks when to get up--and now when to sit down, that is a completely different subject!
*For those of you who like the bright lights of the Big Apple, the A's travel to NYC the first week of June in 2014. If you ever wanted to see the Green and Gold in Yankee Stadium, next season might be a winner. The A's are schedule to play three mid week games the first week of June. May be worth beating the heat and make the early summer trip. If you are Big Time, you could even follow the team to Baltimore on the subsequent weekend. A trip to the Big Apple, then a stop in Washington D.C. on the way to land of Earl Weaver, might be a trip worth considering--load up the motor home!
*Can the Raiders pull a stunner in Denver? All the Raiders have to do is take a look in the O.Co and realize anything is possible. Payton.....Payton......look out Big Fella! The Mile High City is one place SeaBass could make one 65 yards out. Mile High Miracle perhaps?
*One more game A's, then we can raise the glass to you!
*Have A Great Sunday!
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Winning and Whining!
From the Get Down Lounge:
*Well, with a little help from the Rays, the A's held on to their 6 and a half game lead. 10 games to go people! Yesterday sure was interesting--first Balfour gave up the gopher ball that tied the ninth; then later in the evening Sergio Romo of the Giants coughed up a 3 run 9th inning lead to Mets, and Rangers Closer and former Giant Joe Nathan let a 3-2 lead slip away. Not a great day for closers!
*I am so flipping tired of A's fans getting nagged on about the attendance! A's fans get nothing but CRAP from ALL sides. Let's review:
1. Stadium sucks, I suppose that is the A's fans fault;
2. Owners won't spend money, and that is the A's fans fault too. Way go Lou, by complaining about attendance-->how about signing Donaldson or Parker or Moss Long Term? Clearly we are the problem Lou.
3. CRAP in the dugouts and locker rooms, blame the fans.
4. Even KNBR jumped in on Tuesday with all of their backhanded compliments. I guess talking about the attendance a better topic than the Giants or the Niners getting blown out in Seattle,
5. To the 53,000 plus fans who attended the games I raise my mocha to you.
6. For those fans with kids or families, staying home and watching the suddenly hot, underachieving, highly overpaid Angels on TV makes perfect sense.
7. Its the Fans fault that Moneyball the movie was made. Man will the envy ever stop?
8. Hey Lou, when is Plunger Night?
9. Finally, playoff tickets sold so well, the Tarps look like their coming off. Oh, so look at that Lou, A's fans do support you strong. Hey Lou, maybe you should google the Oakland Athletics--we have been there, done that before--we want another title Lou, another title! We will take Fireworks by the way, but give folks a break for watching from the sofa during the week!
*So to A's fans and all of the great A's teams, I raise my glass to you. To all of the administration, staff, coaches, everyone involved, this includes you. The A's just keep on winning, and the rest of the world, just can't seem to deal with it. The Script is simple, let's run the table, knock off Boston and L.A, and they we can smile all the way through "Pie in Your Eye, Moneyball II."
*The last few days required some assistance of a personal nature. During times such as I was experiencing, it was just tough to sit down and write. I guess I was on the DL for a couple of days. The Texas series by the way, quite unexpected. When the A's just about burped up the lead on Friday, I about passed. Sweeping the Rangers really opened the door to the title. It's not over until it's over, however clinching at home this weekend would be a real blast. Speaking of blasts, it is the last post game fireworks show on Friday!
**By the way, A's attendance is up just about 7.5% from last year....funny that doesn't get mentioned often.
*Well, with a little help from the Rays, the A's held on to their 6 and a half game lead. 10 games to go people! Yesterday sure was interesting--first Balfour gave up the gopher ball that tied the ninth; then later in the evening Sergio Romo of the Giants coughed up a 3 run 9th inning lead to Mets, and Rangers Closer and former Giant Joe Nathan let a 3-2 lead slip away. Not a great day for closers!
*I am so flipping tired of A's fans getting nagged on about the attendance! A's fans get nothing but CRAP from ALL sides. Let's review:
1. Stadium sucks, I suppose that is the A's fans fault;
2. Owners won't spend money, and that is the A's fans fault too. Way go Lou, by complaining about attendance-->how about signing Donaldson or Parker or Moss Long Term? Clearly we are the problem Lou.
3. CRAP in the dugouts and locker rooms, blame the fans.
4. Even KNBR jumped in on Tuesday with all of their backhanded compliments. I guess talking about the attendance a better topic than the Giants or the Niners getting blown out in Seattle,
5. To the 53,000 plus fans who attended the games I raise my mocha to you.
6. For those fans with kids or families, staying home and watching the suddenly hot, underachieving, highly overpaid Angels on TV makes perfect sense.
7. Its the Fans fault that Moneyball the movie was made. Man will the envy ever stop?
8. Hey Lou, when is Plunger Night?
9. Finally, playoff tickets sold so well, the Tarps look like their coming off. Oh, so look at that Lou, A's fans do support you strong. Hey Lou, maybe you should google the Oakland Athletics--we have been there, done that before--we want another title Lou, another title! We will take Fireworks by the way, but give folks a break for watching from the sofa during the week!
*So to A's fans and all of the great A's teams, I raise my glass to you. To all of the administration, staff, coaches, everyone involved, this includes you. The A's just keep on winning, and the rest of the world, just can't seem to deal with it. The Script is simple, let's run the table, knock off Boston and L.A, and they we can smile all the way through "Pie in Your Eye, Moneyball II."
*The last few days required some assistance of a personal nature. During times such as I was experiencing, it was just tough to sit down and write. I guess I was on the DL for a couple of days. The Texas series by the way, quite unexpected. When the A's just about burped up the lead on Friday, I about passed. Sweeping the Rangers really opened the door to the title. It's not over until it's over, however clinching at home this weekend would be a real blast. Speaking of blasts, it is the last post game fireworks show on Friday!
**By the way, A's attendance is up just about 7.5% from last year....funny that doesn't get mentioned often.
Labels:
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Saturday, September 14, 2013
MVP MVP MVP
Flipping the remote on this Saturday Morning....
*A's and Rangers get going early with a 10 P.S.T.! Last night's 9-8 win last more than four hours, so double check those batteries. Many moons have passed since an A's bullpen hiccuped as loud as last night--giving up 6 runs in the 8th frame. Closing games on the road always difficult, but games in Arlington and Fenway, securing victory always seems extra treacherous. A win is a win is win, and while A's fans collectives hearts were moving their way up the esophagus--this morning the Green and Gold arise to 4 and one-half game lead over the Rangers. Not many people on the planet called a 4 game plus lead for the good guys!
*MVP, MVP, MVP. Time to make a stand. Josh Donaldson deserves to be in the MVP discussion. Last night he drove in 3 more runs, his rbi total moving up to 87. Donaldson plays a mean hot corner, and has consistently been the fire in the A's belly. Donaldson struggled a bit just after the All Star break, and coincidentally, so the did the A's. MVP MVP MVP.
*Brett Anderson needs to take a yoga or ballet class. It has become painful to watch him on the mound. Last night he suffered back spasms while pitching in the warm and humid Texas summer heat. It is time to put the oft-injured lefty back in the rotation and see what he can do. I still believe Anderson could be an affective closer someday, but for now, his bullpen stint not producing many positive results. Next Thursday in Oakland against Minnesota is the perfect time BoMel to insert BA.
*The flash flooding in Colorado forced postponement of the Buffs and Bulldogs this afternoon. There is still time to drive to Berkeley and check out the Midwest Invasion as the Buckeyes take on the Bears. For those of you inclined to make a road trip, the game starts at 4 p.m. PST. You can make it a Buckeye Special and watch the Raiders play in the O.Co 21 hours later. A Silver and Black Angel dropped a ticket in my lap, so it is off to the home opener I go--as a matter of principal naturally!
*The Battle in Seattle does have a certain ring to it. The post game handshake my favorite part. Seattle gets more NFL love than anyone not named Manning. Hey NFL Media, what's your problem?
Enjoy your Saturday everyone!
*A's and Rangers get going early with a 10 P.S.T.! Last night's 9-8 win last more than four hours, so double check those batteries. Many moons have passed since an A's bullpen hiccuped as loud as last night--giving up 6 runs in the 8th frame. Closing games on the road always difficult, but games in Arlington and Fenway, securing victory always seems extra treacherous. A win is a win is win, and while A's fans collectives hearts were moving their way up the esophagus--this morning the Green and Gold arise to 4 and one-half game lead over the Rangers. Not many people on the planet called a 4 game plus lead for the good guys!
*MVP, MVP, MVP. Time to make a stand. Josh Donaldson deserves to be in the MVP discussion. Last night he drove in 3 more runs, his rbi total moving up to 87. Donaldson plays a mean hot corner, and has consistently been the fire in the A's belly. Donaldson struggled a bit just after the All Star break, and coincidentally, so the did the A's. MVP MVP MVP.
*Brett Anderson needs to take a yoga or ballet class. It has become painful to watch him on the mound. Last night he suffered back spasms while pitching in the warm and humid Texas summer heat. It is time to put the oft-injured lefty back in the rotation and see what he can do. I still believe Anderson could be an affective closer someday, but for now, his bullpen stint not producing many positive results. Next Thursday in Oakland against Minnesota is the perfect time BoMel to insert BA.
*The flash flooding in Colorado forced postponement of the Buffs and Bulldogs this afternoon. There is still time to drive to Berkeley and check out the Midwest Invasion as the Buckeyes take on the Bears. For those of you inclined to make a road trip, the game starts at 4 p.m. PST. You can make it a Buckeye Special and watch the Raiders play in the O.Co 21 hours later. A Silver and Black Angel dropped a ticket in my lap, so it is off to the home opener I go--as a matter of principal naturally!
*The Battle in Seattle does have a certain ring to it. The post game handshake my favorite part. Seattle gets more NFL love than anyone not named Manning. Hey NFL Media, what's your problem?
Enjoy your Saturday everyone!
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Life, Home Runs, and Portagee Red
A Quick Recap from the Get Down Lounge.....
*A's play an early affair in the Twin Cities this morning, with first pitch at 10 a.m. P.S.T. A's have the opportunity to put a little more distance between themselves and the Rangers before the showdown series this weekend in Texas. This morning the A's lead stands at 3 games.
*9/11 such a unique day on our country's history. Hard to believe that day took place 12 years ago. As I get older I guess it is true what they say, that Father Time waits for no one. It may be a little hard for Californians to completely wrap our collective minds around the events of that day 12 years ago. The overall impact of the Towers might be similar to imaging Disneyland and the Golden Gate Bridge being struck down simultaneously. 9/11 one day when New Yorkers should be in the forefront of our hearts and minds.
*On September 10, 1925 in a little village in Northern Portugal, my father was born. On Tuesday we had a nice little gathering in his honor with a small group of family and friends. What I gleaned from our nice little event was just how good a runner my uncle was in the late 1950's, and in 1960! In fact, this former Sac State runner may even of had the chance at making the Olympic team, but a call to military duty changed his course. So to my father Armando J., and my Uncle Urban Gasperi, to you both I raise my glass of Portagee Red! After our little event we watched the A's highlights, where they lost a tough, tough, one 4-3. They led going into the eight when former A Josh Willingham hit the game winning 2-run bomb. On this day however, it was just a game. (Any other day, I may not have slept so well! Of course, sipping on a little red wine at dinner does tend to calm one's nerves!)
*Talk of years gone by had my mind racing. I can't recall the first A's game I ever went to? The first one I remember watching on television was in 1971, when Reggie Jackson blasted one off the light towers in Detroit. It was during the All-Star game. I can't seem to remember much, however I remember Reggie due to the fact I had trouble tracking the flight of the ball! (One of my prized possessions a Kelly Green bat with Reggie's name on it from the old bat days way back when!) I vaguely remember the playoffs with Baltimore that year but is all pretty hazy. I do however remember vividly the 1972 World Series. Sitting in the living room, I remember Gene Tenace going yard--twice! Once again, what I remember most was my inability to track the ball! Funny it is two long balls that I remember most--to this day, home runs clearly my favorite part of the game, especially when I can follow the flight of the ball! The Canseco bomb from the Bash Brother days up in Toronto one of my favorite memories as well. Remember that one? Upper Deck in left field, Holy Toledo!
*One last tidbit on my father, along with my mother, they produced two offspring in one year. My sister was born on January 4th, and brother December 26. Now that is getting the job done so to speak! My aunt used the term Irish Twins, which I had never heard before? My parents like the Cold War when it comes to historical facts and information, but I only could only imagine the look on both of their faces when they found out my brother was coming along! It sure sounded like that old Portagee Red had struck again.
*A's play an early affair in the Twin Cities this morning, with first pitch at 10 a.m. P.S.T. A's have the opportunity to put a little more distance between themselves and the Rangers before the showdown series this weekend in Texas. This morning the A's lead stands at 3 games.
*9/11 such a unique day on our country's history. Hard to believe that day took place 12 years ago. As I get older I guess it is true what they say, that Father Time waits for no one. It may be a little hard for Californians to completely wrap our collective minds around the events of that day 12 years ago. The overall impact of the Towers might be similar to imaging Disneyland and the Golden Gate Bridge being struck down simultaneously. 9/11 one day when New Yorkers should be in the forefront of our hearts and minds.
*On September 10, 1925 in a little village in Northern Portugal, my father was born. On Tuesday we had a nice little gathering in his honor with a small group of family and friends. What I gleaned from our nice little event was just how good a runner my uncle was in the late 1950's, and in 1960! In fact, this former Sac State runner may even of had the chance at making the Olympic team, but a call to military duty changed his course. So to my father Armando J., and my Uncle Urban Gasperi, to you both I raise my glass of Portagee Red! After our little event we watched the A's highlights, where they lost a tough, tough, one 4-3. They led going into the eight when former A Josh Willingham hit the game winning 2-run bomb. On this day however, it was just a game. (Any other day, I may not have slept so well! Of course, sipping on a little red wine at dinner does tend to calm one's nerves!)
*Talk of years gone by had my mind racing. I can't recall the first A's game I ever went to? The first one I remember watching on television was in 1971, when Reggie Jackson blasted one off the light towers in Detroit. It was during the All-Star game. I can't seem to remember much, however I remember Reggie due to the fact I had trouble tracking the flight of the ball! (One of my prized possessions a Kelly Green bat with Reggie's name on it from the old bat days way back when!) I vaguely remember the playoffs with Baltimore that year but is all pretty hazy. I do however remember vividly the 1972 World Series. Sitting in the living room, I remember Gene Tenace going yard--twice! Once again, what I remember most was my inability to track the ball! Funny it is two long balls that I remember most--to this day, home runs clearly my favorite part of the game, especially when I can follow the flight of the ball! The Canseco bomb from the Bash Brother days up in Toronto one of my favorite memories as well. Remember that one? Upper Deck in left field, Holy Toledo!
*One last tidbit on my father, along with my mother, they produced two offspring in one year. My sister was born on January 4th, and brother December 26. Now that is getting the job done so to speak! My aunt used the term Irish Twins, which I had never heard before? My parents like the Cold War when it comes to historical facts and information, but I only could only imagine the look on both of their faces when they found out my brother was coming along! It sure sounded like that old Portagee Red had struck again.
Labels:
A's in Minnesota,
Gene Tenace,
Irish Twins,
Jose Canseco,
Red Wine,
Reggie Jackson,
Urban Gasperi
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Numbers and a NFL Memory
A's win 2-1, Increase Lead Over the Rangers, and Some Numbers:
Dan Stailey pitched a gem yesterday in the O.Co, helping the A's hold off the Astros 2-1. Yoenis Cespedes grilled home run #22 to put the A's up 1-0. Sean Doolittle recorded his first save. So let's take a closer look at some numbers:
*Most Importantly, thanks to some help from the Halos, the A's lead the Rangers by a game and a half, with that BIG 3 game series next weekend looming in the distance. The last week of the season will be very interesting as the A's finish on the road in Anaheim and Seattle, while the Rangers host Houston and Seattle.
The A's may want to try and
*Strailey's numbers during the day: 4-1 record, 2.25 ERA, 1.0 WHIP, .181 BAA (batting average against);
*Strailey's numbers at night: 5-6 record, 5.21 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, .267 BAA.
Strailey's numbers slightly better at home than on the road, so it's pretty simple-->pitch Dan in Oakland, during the day!
*Cespedes' year has been of particular interest to me, so I compared his stats from 2012 and 2013. Interestingly, his plate appearances are nearly identical, 487 in 2012 and 471 thus far in 2013. The category that jumped out was that Cespy has 20 more strikeouts in 16 less late appearances. His hit total is down, as are his average and on base percentage. Walks are nearly the same, as our home runs. It would appear, Yo Yo needs to pick his spots, and think about more singles and doubles! If he can somehow someway get on a tear, things would look a little brighter in Oaktown!
Memories of my First NFL Game, Fall of 1972:
It was a rainy day in Oakland, when the Monsters of the Midway were visiting the Coliseum. The Bears Quarterback was Bobby Douglass. We must have been late, as we walked from a parking lot on Hegenberger Road. We meandered away through fences, across a canal, and finally into the lot of the Oakland Alameda County Coliseum. It was beautiful. We sat behind the Bears, in what they used to call the "Bleachers." I seem to recall more than one funny smelling type of cigarette out there, and maybe even an item or two being projected at the Bears bench. The field was sloppy, and I as I recall the Raiders prevailed 28-21. (I just looked it up, it was indeed the Fall of 1972, and I was 6 years old!) It was a blast. My father, my brother, and a friend of my father, wonderfully pleasant man by the name of George Hiromoto. I believe we stopped for ribs at Emmil Villa's in Walnut Creek. Good times, good times indeed!
I also have many great memories of Niner games at the Stick. The Stick seemed fine for football, baseball, um, not so much. The major difference in my humble opinion between going to the O.A.C. C., or the Stick, was that it was or is still much easier and faster to get out of the Coli than the Stick. In Oakland I learned the lessons of tailgating from Mary Spingolo and her family. Over at the stick, it was good times with the Rio Vista families, the Smiths and the Flaherty's in particular. ( I seem to remember the Landa's as well, but come to think of that, that may have been more for A's games?) In the 70's it was a great time to be a Raider, A's, and Warrior fan. There was some heartbreak involved, but there was definitely OUR share of raising the victor's cup!
So today, I raise the cup to the families of Frank Spingolo (Mary's Dad), Lincoln Chan (an Icon in Delta Pear farming); Mike Flaherty and Rex Smith, two guys who are always welcome in the Get Down Lounge!; and of course my fun-loving, always good food consuming parents. My mother the master of the Kitchen Sink sandwich which always tasted scrumptious in the second half. I eventually learned not to ask what was in it, just to eat it! To pops for all of the driving. And the chocolate malts. And maybe a pennant or two! To the Coli too, well just because you have always been there!
Enjoy the Sunday people, enjoy, and a little rib sauce on the cheeks, shirts, and arms is just fine for you 6 year olds out there, it just means they were good going down!
Dan Stailey pitched a gem yesterday in the O.Co, helping the A's hold off the Astros 2-1. Yoenis Cespedes grilled home run #22 to put the A's up 1-0. Sean Doolittle recorded his first save. So let's take a closer look at some numbers:
*Most Importantly, thanks to some help from the Halos, the A's lead the Rangers by a game and a half, with that BIG 3 game series next weekend looming in the distance. The last week of the season will be very interesting as the A's finish on the road in Anaheim and Seattle, while the Rangers host Houston and Seattle.
The A's may want to try and
*Strailey's numbers during the day: 4-1 record, 2.25 ERA, 1.0 WHIP, .181 BAA (batting average against);
*Strailey's numbers at night: 5-6 record, 5.21 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, .267 BAA.
Strailey's numbers slightly better at home than on the road, so it's pretty simple-->pitch Dan in Oakland, during the day!
*Cespedes' year has been of particular interest to me, so I compared his stats from 2012 and 2013. Interestingly, his plate appearances are nearly identical, 487 in 2012 and 471 thus far in 2013. The category that jumped out was that Cespy has 20 more strikeouts in 16 less late appearances. His hit total is down, as are his average and on base percentage. Walks are nearly the same, as our home runs. It would appear, Yo Yo needs to pick his spots, and think about more singles and doubles! If he can somehow someway get on a tear, things would look a little brighter in Oaktown!
Memories of my First NFL Game, Fall of 1972:
It was a rainy day in Oakland, when the Monsters of the Midway were visiting the Coliseum. The Bears Quarterback was Bobby Douglass. We must have been late, as we walked from a parking lot on Hegenberger Road. We meandered away through fences, across a canal, and finally into the lot of the Oakland Alameda County Coliseum. It was beautiful. We sat behind the Bears, in what they used to call the "Bleachers." I seem to recall more than one funny smelling type of cigarette out there, and maybe even an item or two being projected at the Bears bench. The field was sloppy, and I as I recall the Raiders prevailed 28-21. (I just looked it up, it was indeed the Fall of 1972, and I was 6 years old!) It was a blast. My father, my brother, and a friend of my father, wonderfully pleasant man by the name of George Hiromoto. I believe we stopped for ribs at Emmil Villa's in Walnut Creek. Good times, good times indeed!
I also have many great memories of Niner games at the Stick. The Stick seemed fine for football, baseball, um, not so much. The major difference in my humble opinion between going to the O.A.C. C., or the Stick, was that it was or is still much easier and faster to get out of the Coli than the Stick. In Oakland I learned the lessons of tailgating from Mary Spingolo and her family. Over at the stick, it was good times with the Rio Vista families, the Smiths and the Flaherty's in particular. ( I seem to remember the Landa's as well, but come to think of that, that may have been more for A's games?) In the 70's it was a great time to be a Raider, A's, and Warrior fan. There was some heartbreak involved, but there was definitely OUR share of raising the victor's cup!
So today, I raise the cup to the families of Frank Spingolo (Mary's Dad), Lincoln Chan (an Icon in Delta Pear farming); Mike Flaherty and Rex Smith, two guys who are always welcome in the Get Down Lounge!; and of course my fun-loving, always good food consuming parents. My mother the master of the Kitchen Sink sandwich which always tasted scrumptious in the second half. I eventually learned not to ask what was in it, just to eat it! To pops for all of the driving. And the chocolate malts. And maybe a pennant or two! To the Coli too, well just because you have always been there!
Enjoy the Sunday people, enjoy, and a little rib sauce on the cheeks, shirts, and arms is just fine for you 6 year olds out there, it just means they were good going down!
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