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Around SBN: Nevin Shapiro Vows To Bring Down Miami

8/13: Open Game Thread

Wbc_029_tiny by Jeff Sullivan on in Seattle Mariners News, Regular

RESCINDED ANGRY UPDATE: Adrian Beltre asked his way out of the lineup tonight, so McLaren is forgiven for the mess at third. He is not, however, forgiven for the mess at second.

ANGRY UPDATE: the Minnesota Twins have the highest groundball percentage of any offense in baseball, at 50%. Felix Hernandez has the second-highest groundball percentage of any starter in the American League, at 62%. John McLaren is starting Jose Vidro at second base and Willie Ballgame at third.

First Pitch: 7:05pm PDT

                   

Casilla 2B Ichiro CF Bartlett SS Vidro 2B Mauer C Guillen RF Hunter CF Ibanez DH Morneau 1B Sexson 1B Cuddyer RF Johjima C White LF Jones LF Tyner DH Betancourt SS Punto 3B Ballgame 3B ---------- ----------

Santana (12-9, 2.98)        King Felix (8-6, 3.97)

Headline under "Mariners Update" on the official website:

McLaren Likes Team

Well that's a relief.

Assuming that Raul Ibanez gets a start tonight against the best left-handed pitcher in baseball, one of the justifications you're going to hear is that he's 11-28 in his career against Santana with a .919 OPS. However, he's also 3-21 with a .317 OPS against Jason Johnson. Would McLaren use that as a justification to bench Raul against the junkballing nobody? Color me skeptical. Because of the countless variables involved in and limited sample sizes of pitcher/batter matchups, the numbers are basically worthless, and just like we shouldn't believe that Josh Towers and Dan Wright have Ichiro's number (combined 8-43), we also shouldn't believe that Raul Ibanez has somehow figured out Johan Santana. It's far more likely that this is just a statistical fluke, and starting him tonight would be a mistake.

Starting Ben Broussard would also be a mistake. But then I don't think that's something we'd ever have to worry about, huh?

Let the epic matchup begin.

LET'S GO MARINERS!!

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Not sure about right now
But I think Santana is statistically/historically worse against lefties than righties.
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 3:18 PM PDT reply actions  

I lied
this year he's better against lefties, but for career, virtually identical .639 vs. 6.47 ops
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 3:21 PM PDT reply actions  

I edited a little for you
Raul sucks, despite getting player of the week.
Hey Raul, Richie, Vidro please quit. Thank you NB

by InSpokane on Aug 13, 2007 3:32 PM PDT up reply actions  

My turn to edit
Rauls sucks. There!
"You guys should be in every major city. This is some heavy shit. This is, like, Lone Ranger heavy, man."

by AZSEAfan on Aug 13, 2007 3:42 PM PDT up reply actions  

Sad, My first thought was
a guy hits .400 against a guy and only has a .919 OPS against him, sounds like a Willie Bloomquist cup of coffee
Don't listen to their lies, Bill! Look at the sparkly ERA! Sparkly sparkly! - McCovey Chronicles

by Trenchtown2 on Aug 13, 2007 3:43 PM PDT reply actions  

By the way
yes, I'm getting very sick of talking about Raul Ibanez.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 3:45 PM PDT reply actions  

Aren't we all
John Olerud sucks.
against Vegas reliever Casey Hoorelbeke, whose ancestors clearly couldn't spell Hurlbeck properly.

by Christian on Aug 13, 2007 4:15 PM PDT up reply actions  

You take away their losses
and the Mariners are undefeated!

by Gomez on Aug 13, 2007 4:09 PM PDT reply actions  

You made me spit coffee out my nose!
Just yesterday I was telling my nephew if you replaced the Nathaniel in his name with Asshat, his name would be Asshat.  

by chrisisasavage on Aug 13, 2007 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions  

Sweet.
And if you replaced the Nathaniel in his name with Pants, his name would be Pants!
"Do not be too hasty in entering that room. I had Taco Bell for lunch!" Dr. Byron Orpheus

by Thingray on Aug 13, 2007 4:56 PM PDT up reply actions  

pumped for tonights game
the baltimore games were blacked out here and i was out of town this weekend so this is my first mariner game in a week.  and i get Felix v johan.  FUN!

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 4:39 PM PDT reply actions  

NEWS FLASH: John McLaren is retarded.
Per KJR:
Jones in LF
Ibanez DH
Vidro 2B
Bloomquist 3B

So... with one of the most groundball prone pitchers in the majors, Mac runs the teams worst defensive infield. AWESOME!

by sammy on Aug 13, 2007 5:13 PM PDT reply actions  

WTF??????
I'm completely confused. And apparently so is Mac.
"Do not be too hasty in entering that room. I had Taco Bell for lunch!" Dr. Byron Orpheus

by Thingray on Aug 13, 2007 5:19 PM PDT up reply actions  

On the plus side
if we lose, I already know what I'm writing about.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 5:20 PM PDT up reply actions  

At least we can see how
McLaren thinks this move makes sense. Someone told him that a great pitcher like Santana makes a hitter like Adrian Beltre hit like Willie Bloomquist. So Mac, quite logically deducted that if Santana makes Beltre hit like Bloomquist, then he must also make Willie Bloomquist hit like Adrian Beltre.
Don't listen to their lies, Bill! Look at the sparkly ERA! Sparkly sparkly! - McCovey Chronicles

by Trenchtown2 on Aug 13, 2007 5:48 PM PDT up reply actions  

That is the bright side of it I suppose.
I don't even mind Turbo playing 2nd ALL that much, because you get his bat in the lineup, which has been better than Lopez' (sacrifice defense for offense), but unless Beltre is sick or injured, why would you sacrifice defense AND offense at 3rd?
"Do not be too hasty in entering that room. I had Taco Bell for lunch!" Dr. Byron Orpheus

by Thingray on Aug 13, 2007 5:23 PM PDT up reply actions  

Uh huh.
This is just bad management and worse timing.

If Willie Ballgame has to play today, I'd run with the following:

Ichiro (CF)
Jones (LF)
Guillen (RF)
Beltre (3B)
Johjima (C)
Sexson (1B)
Vidro (DH)
Betancourt (SS)
Ballgame (2B)

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 5:25 PM PDT up reply actions  

But the chances
of that happening are nil.
THANK YOU. NOW BENCH RICHIE FOR BEN.

by dbroncos31 on Aug 13, 2007 5:28 PM PDT up reply actions  

That would be better than anything,
if Ballgame HAS to play.

I guess my point was that I miss Beltre a LOT more than I miss Lopez in the lineup.

"Do not be too hasty in entering that room. I had Taco Bell for lunch!" Dr. Byron Orpheus

by Thingray on Aug 13, 2007 5:29 PM PDT up reply actions  

Beltre BETTER be hurt
because otherwise, sitting him today would be completely retarded.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 5:30 PM PDT up reply actions  

Mac:
I am...

Sofa King...

We Todd Ed...

Say it faster!!

"Do not be too hasty in entering that room. I had Taco Bell for lunch!" Dr. Byron Orpheus

by Thingray on Aug 13, 2007 5:32 PM PDT up reply actions  

Not bad.
and if you're absolutely committed to getting Ibañez into the lineup, why not try him at first? We've already got a black hole there anyway...

by sammy on Aug 13, 2007 5:29 PM PDT up reply actions  

With Felix pitching
on a night when every run is going to come at a premium, you HAVE to play your best defensive infield. It's not a question to me. Sure, "We need to rest our regulars so they're fresh down the stretch" and all that, but tonight???

by sammy on Aug 13, 2007 5:26 PM PDT up reply actions  

What the fuck.
Great idea, Johnny Mac, let's take one of our best hitters out of the lineup and make the infield D suck with a groundball pitcher on the mound.

At least he has Jones in Left. Baby steps

Should be:
Jones in LF
Vidro at DH
Richie at 1B
Beltre at 3B
Lopez at 2B
and the rest

THANK YOU. NOW BENCH RICHIE FOR BEN.

by dbroncos31 on Aug 13, 2007 5:27 PM PDT up reply actions  

How long can he get away with this crap
Without anyone in the media calling him on it?

by patsfan on Aug 13, 2007 5:31 PM PDT up reply actions  

Stone was doing a pretty good job
in his stint filling in for Baker of pointing out the logical fallacies in Mac's moves.

by sammy on Aug 13, 2007 5:33 PM PDT up reply actions  

Fucking Christ.
We're going to lose this game like 2-1 when Vidro can't get to a ball up the middle with two outs that scores the go-ahead run.

In other news, Vick is fucked. Apparently, the other two defendants are going to plea bargain and give up Vick.

also, 7-3 Broncos over the 49ers. wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

THANK YOU. NOW BENCH RICHIE FOR BEN.

by dbroncos31 on Aug 13, 2007 5:33 PM PDT reply actions  

It's been said before
but the reason Mclaren has never been a manager before makes a lot more sense every day.

by thepull on Aug 13, 2007 5:37 PM PDT reply actions  

Tim Wakefield has a no-hitter through six.
I say he has a no-hitter through six because I want to jinx his no-hitter.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 5:44 PM PDT reply actions  

Of course Willie starts today!
If we're lucky, this is just the start of a Beltre-Bloomquist platoon!

by Slozbury Stouvre on Aug 13, 2007 5:47 PM PDT reply actions  

I bet Beltre sitting has everything to do
with the fact that he's been struggling at the plate for the past few weeks and Mac thought he needed a rest after that road trip.

by sammy on Aug 13, 2007 5:49 PM PDT reply actions  

So...
...how come Sexson doesn't get more rest?

And couldn't he have scheduled that rest against a flyball pitcher?

by rtang on Aug 13, 2007 5:52 PM PDT up reply actions  

well....
"THIS IS SPARTA"
and in sparta we kick messengers down a random unrealisticly deep stone well.
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 5:58 PM PDT up reply actions  

Okay, so on second thought, this makes sense.
McLaren has to start Vidro behind the groundballing Felix in order to balance out all the good that came from Karl Rove's retirement today.

It's simple science. For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.

by Slozbury Stouvre on Aug 13, 2007 5:51 PM PDT reply actions  

Jason Tyner is DH'ing today.
Seriously.

Of course, that's still better than batting Raul Ibanez cleanup and Richie Sexson #5.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 5:55 PM PDT reply actions  

In other news
Matt Cain is now at 4-13, 3.77 ERA on the season. This reminds me of that short story "The Monkey's Paw" where you can make a wish but it always comes true in some twisted way that makes the wisher regret having wished. Cain, apparently wished for good stuff and command of his pitches.
there should be three levels of terror alert: Jesus Christ, Goddammit, and fuck me! -LB

by Bearskin Rugburn on Aug 13, 2007 6:08 PM PDT reply actions  

Why the hell would you sit Beltre?

That makes zero sense, Felix is one of the most ground-ball prone pitchers in the league and you take out your gold glove of a third baseman who hasn't even been batting that poorly against Santana?  For what possible reason would you do that?

And Vidro should not be in the field period.  I'd rather have Beltre and 3rd and Bloomquist at 2nd than this atrocious infield defense.

by Notor on Aug 13, 2007 6:10 PM PDT reply actions  

It HAS to be some sort of injury..
Or sickness...  I refuse to believe that anyone is that dumb - even Mac.

by seattlesundevil on Aug 13, 2007 6:13 PM PDT up reply actions  

OMGWTFVORPBBQ!!!!!!1
Dear John letter written...
Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 6:21 PM PDT reply actions  

What's bugging me about McLaren's
decisions for tonight's game is that I'm struggling to figure out his logic behind them.

"Santana is a great pitcher. We need to make tonight's offense as great as possible. I'm benching Lopez in favor of Vidro, and starting Bloomquist" - BZZ

"It's going to be a low scoring game tonight. Maybe we can run our way to victory. Sure, Beltre isn't that slow of a guy, but Bloomquist is often fantastic on the base paths. Then we just need to get Vidro in there..." - BZZ

"I want better defense. I'm putting Jones in LF, then benching Beltre and Lopez in favor of Bloomie and Vidro" - BZZ BZZ

"I guuuueeeeesss should I give Jones something of a shot... but that means I'm going to have to move Mr. Mariner to DH -- Hey! Just like Edgar! Raul sure is great -- and if Raul is DH, then I'm going to have to get Vidro onto the field. That shouldn't be a problem, because I'm an old fogey who doesn't understand defensive metrics, so it ain't a thang to replace one Jose at second with another. And again, since I don't understand statistics behind homeruns and batting average, I'll stick Bloomquist at third over the slumping Adrian. He deserves the night off."

There. That's it.

by Katal LM on Aug 13, 2007 6:41 PM PDT reply actions  

Oh dear lord.....
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 6:42 PM PDT reply actions  

i dont know what i fear more...
beltre being hurt

or

mcclaren being so fucking dumb to put ballgame at 3rd

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 6:53 PM PDT reply actions  

You mean...
the Yankees actually promoted a stud rookie and threw him into the fire because he was their best option? What a novel idea it is to field a team of your best 25 players.

If the M's had Joba in AAA he would still be there as to not disrupt the delicate veterans on the roster.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:05 PM PDT up reply actions  

God....
I hope none of you people post on Geoff Baker's blog.

Those posters over there are ridiculous.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:04 PM PDT reply actions  

What do you expect?
The idiots who posted on the P-I forums, just migrated over to his blog.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:05 PM PDT up reply actions  

Apparantly...
M's fans can't bitch about this lineup because it's the one that we have been crying for all season.

Unless Sexson and Ibanez have been scratched, I don't see what in the hell they are talking about.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:08 PM PDT up reply actions  

im glad
i got about a 1/2 of the last case of bud light left over from this weekend.

the start of the english premier league only sent me through 38 beers.

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 7:12 PM PDT up reply actions  

Tonight is either going to be really awesome
or really horrible.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:11 PM PDT reply actions  

willie ballgame.
with a beltre-esque play.  i like that.

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 7:13 PM PDT reply actions  

Sigh.
So much for Jeremy Guthrie being good.
What do I look like, a guy who's not lazy?

by Rollo Tomasi on Aug 13, 2007 7:13 PM PDT reply actions  

Beltre knew he was gonna miss one day
so he picked Santana of course
I type 101 words a minute. But its in my own language.

by andyboi on Aug 13, 2007 7:13 PM PDT reply actions  

The Minnesota lineup
is loaded with little nobodies who're probably gonna annoy the piss out of me.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:15 PM PDT reply actions  

seriously
stop taking so long to get owned

by Zack on Aug 13, 2007 7:16 PM PDT up reply actions  

99 mph fastball
89 mph slider

thats not fair.  i <3 felix.

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 7:15 PM PDT reply actions  

K!
WHAT ARE YOU DOING JOHNNY MAC?!?!

by MFAN on Aug 13, 2007 7:15 PM PDT reply actions  

F@#$.
Orioles almost tied, then failed.
What do I look like, a guy who's not lazy?

by Rollo Tomasi on Aug 13, 2007 7:16 PM PDT reply actions  

wooo
What do I look like, a guy who's not lazy?

by Rollo Tomasi on Aug 13, 2007 7:17 PM PDT up reply actions  

Orioles Score!!
God I die rooting for baltimore...
Agent 51: The Japanese God of Awesome

by Robert Lintott on Aug 13, 2007 7:17 PM PDT reply actions  

And so it begins.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:17 PM PDT reply actions  

Sigh
hopefully that doesn't hurt us.
Free Adam Jones

by bluemax on Aug 13, 2007 7:18 PM PDT reply actions  

Here comes a double
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:18 PM PDT reply actions  

Vidro Supporters...
get your "Felix should have gotten out of it" posts ready.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:18 PM PDT reply actions  

Felix should be so good
that the other team gets an extra out EVERY inning.
What do I look like, a guy who's not lazy?

by Rollo Tomasi on Aug 13, 2007 7:19 PM PDT up reply actions  

fucking vidro
you fat POS.  i guess we should consider ourselves lucky the ball didnt get stuck in your fucking gut you bastard.

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 7:19 PM PDT reply actions  

We all know a run is scoring here.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:19 PM PDT reply actions  

I predicting a 3 run shot for MVP
I type 101 words a minute. But its in my own language.

by andyboi on Aug 13, 2007 7:19 PM PDT reply actions  

I find myself getting
more and more excited each time a lefty comes up just to see Reds antics..

by seattlesundevil on Aug 13, 2007 7:19 PM PDT reply actions  

Over 30 pitches.
Thanks McClaren.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

Miguel Batista
explaining "Ironically Batless Adrian Beltre"

by PShwa on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

Thanks Vidro
for making Felix work. We all know McLaren will keep him in forever.

by Slica on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

morneau needs to die
he is really starting to piss me off

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

At least after Morneau
Felix should be able to cruise for a couple innings..

by seattlesundevil on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

fuck this
hit the fucking ball fair

by Zack on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

Morneau, eh?
I hear he likes his porneau...
Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

Hey...
It got him to strike out, didn't it???

//stupid drunk ass that sat behind me on Opening Day a few years ago...

Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 7:26 PM PDT up reply actions  

Did that have Brandon Morrows pitch count
I type 101 words a minute. But its in my own language.

by andyboi on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

YES STRIKE OUT
YES THEY SHOWED THE SIGN.

Even had a little pic of Harry Canary on it.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

Damn Vidro
that error drove Felix's pitch count up.
Free Adam Jones

by bluemax on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

31 pitches.
Die in a fire Vidro.
What do I look like, a guy who's not lazy?

by Rollo Tomasi on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

Thank god
fucking Vidro trying to sabotage us
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 7:23 PM PDT reply actions  

Ha-ha!
At least the bastard wound up looking really bad on that fastball

by TommyC on Aug 13, 2007 7:24 PM PDT reply actions  

Red was about to fall asleep
just lazily waving that harry canary sign

by Zack on Aug 13, 2007 7:24 PM PDT reply actions  

I think everyone can agree that we drool for the
day when Morneau becomes a FA, and the possibility of him being a Mariner can become a reality
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 7:25 PM PDT reply actions  

His none too graceful
decline phase will make us weep in about 10 years as he's rolled out there day after day

by DCMariner on Aug 13, 2007 7:26 PM PDT up reply actions  

We sure as hell better
Be trying for Johan next offseason too. I'd love to see the best pitcher in the world lead his fellow countryman how to become the next perennial Cy Young winner. There isn't one player out there I want more than Johan.
Felix, you magnificent bastard.

by Double06 on Aug 13, 2007 7:40 PM PDT up reply actions  

Guys, it's not Vidro's fault that he no longer
has the ability to field. Blame McClaren for putting him in a position to fail.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:25 PM PDT reply actions  

Agree, sorta.
I don't blame Vidro -- I blame McLaren.

He got to the ball just fine, just forgot how to field it.  Shakin' the rust out, prolly...

Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 7:28 PM PDT up reply actions  

HAY GUYZ

Wuts goin' on in this thread?

This is me not lurking.

by PhilKenSebben on Aug 13, 2007 7:25 PM PDT reply actions  

Of course...
there is no evidence to say that Vidro isn't still an adequate second baseman.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:25 PM PDT reply actions  

Barry Zito type money?
Santana is going to get Zito's total salary as his annual salary.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:27 PM PDT reply actions  

Hot diggity
that's the hit Burke was supposed to have against Jenks.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:27 PM PDT reply actions  

At this point
I think of us as chasing Boston.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:30 PM PDT up reply actions  

Wow, Punto dropped it, had a long throw and his
throw still beat Vidro by 15 feet.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:30 PM PDT reply actions  

Who's that over there?
Doing that Beltre impersonation
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 7:30 PM PDT reply actions  

Nick Punto
Now that's a fitting name.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 7:30 PM PDT reply actions  

oh man
vidro wasn't even in the picture when that throw got there

by Zack on Aug 13, 2007 7:30 PM PDT reply actions  

IT WORKED
This makes no logical sense. None.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 7:32 PM PDT reply actions  

Oh, I get it now.
Raul's good at aiming his groundballs!

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:32 PM PDT reply actions  

Wooo!
Richie!
Free Adam Jones

by bluemax on Aug 13, 2007 7:32 PM PDT reply actions  

WHAT DID I JUST SEE?
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:32 PM PDT reply actions  

Funk yeah!
Well almost anyway.  

Yesssss!!!!!

Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 7:32 PM PDT reply actions  

THAT WILL DO
NOW PLAY BELTRE AND LOPEZ SO FELIX CAN SHUT MINNESOTA DOWN

by Katal LM on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT reply actions  

How the fuck
did that ball stay in the park?

by Emerald on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT reply actions  

FUNK BLAST!!
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT reply actions  

premature
dammit
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT up reply actions  

Is it just me,
or is Richie weaker this year?
http://seattlesportsmaniac.blogspot.com

by LantermanC on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT up reply actions  

Not just you.
Hence the article on Saturday.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:34 PM PDT up reply actions  

Redemptive swing!!!!
and damn you Niehaus for making me think it was out!!!!

by TommyC on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT reply actions  

That one's not on Dave.
I'm listening to the radio, and the announcers thought it was totally gone too.  Looking at the MLB Gameday, the "red dot" indicating where the hit went has it over the wall.

by esoteric on Aug 13, 2007 7:35 PM PDT up reply actions  

No Kidding.
I think the LL crew at the game prolly blew pretty hard to keep it in the park.
Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 7:38 PM PDT up reply actions  

Stop it...
you're only fueling the "bloggers cheer for failure so that they can be right" fire.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:40 PM PDT up reply actions  

Glad you picked up on this
Totally tryin' to fuel that fire.  

//forgot the closing sarcasm tag...

Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 7:44 PM PDT up reply actions  

holy shit
did not see that one coming at all

by Zack on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT reply actions  

RICHIE!!
WHAT ARE YOU DOING JOHNNY MAC?!?!

by MFAN on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT reply actions  

RICHIE SEXSON WTF
Can't believe that didn't leave the park.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 7:33 PM PDT reply actions  

If you missed it:

(I told him to hold it higher so I could get a good screenshot.)

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:34 PM PDT reply actions  

That was the most obvious strikeout EVER
And it never happened. Holy crap.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:34 PM PDT reply actions  

you knew his only chance was if
he jumped on a pitch early in the count.  methinks richie won't get any more first pitch grooved fastballs

by Zack on Aug 13, 2007 7:35 PM PDT up reply actions  

Does it matter?
He could have 40 pitches right now but our lineup will let him off the hook and he'll be at 75 in the 8th.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:36 PM PDT up reply actions  

Is the top of the Second too early
for defensive replacements?

I'm serious

by JoeyJoJo on Aug 13, 2007 7:36 PM PDT reply actions  

Why?
Vidro is a perfectly capable second baseman.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:37 PM PDT up reply actions  

how did that stay in?
im not complaining...but i was positive that was gone

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 7:37 PM PDT reply actions  

Why is it....
when a guy makes an out on a batted ball the ball isn't replaced, but it is grazes the dirt it's thrown out?

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:39 PM PDT reply actions  

I'm expecting a Grand Slam here
even with the bases empty.

by JoeyJoJo on Aug 13, 2007 7:40 PM PDT reply actions  

Vidro's D aside, McLaren's pwning us for noobs...
Vidro: single.
Ibanez: single.
Sexson: near-FB, 2-R double instead.

Yeah, yeah, pure luck.  And man I agree with everyone who says McLaren's seemingly got no idea how to fill out a lineup card.  But talk about an inning designed to make Jeff's criticisms look misplaced.

Then again, I think Jeff's figured that out already: Ibanez is labelled a spasming corpse and becomes player of the week.  Sexson is declared a nonentity and suddenly begins hitting, albeit w/o power.  

JEFF - DECLARE FELIX TO BE A BUST RIGHT NOW.  IT'S THE ONLY THING THAT MAKES SENSE.

by esoteric on Aug 13, 2007 7:40 PM PDT reply actions  

I'm glad Sexson's in today.
Broussard can't hit lefties.

The Ibanez hit was just a roller that happened to avoid the defense. Vidro's hit was a bloop.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:43 PM PDT up reply actions  

About that rescinded angry update...
Isn't it further evidence, though, that Mac is a wuss?  While Beltre may need a night off, sure, he could've waited until tomorrow to take it, and Mac could've explained that he needed Beltre's glove in there for Felix.  

But hey, Willie "Fogerty" Bloomquist's done OK with the two ball hit his way thus far...

Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 7:41 PM PDT reply actions  

That at bat took far too long.
Glad Rondell White is too shitty to nail that hanging slider.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:41 PM PDT reply actions  

Jason Tyner owns us
I'm so not shocked.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING JOHNNY MAC?!?!

by MFAN on Aug 13, 2007 7:42 PM PDT reply actions  

I'd prefer a strikeout
Felix hasn't been all about the K's lately.

There it is.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 7:47 PM PDT up reply actions  

ugh...
here comes the 9 foul balls.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:46 PM PDT reply actions  

This Twins offense.
I guess this is how it's like to face Ichiro 27 times. They just won't swing and miss.
Felix, you magnificent bastard.

by Double06 on Aug 13, 2007 7:47 PM PDT reply actions  

Take long enough?
Recognize your lack of talent better, Casilla.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:47 PM PDT reply actions  

I'm reminded of
Mortal Kombat: The Movie. "This is where you fall down!"

by DCMariner on Aug 13, 2007 7:48 PM PDT reply actions  

Justin Upton would of gotten a base hit.....
...I'll be quiet.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:52 PM PDT reply actions  

Willie shaved his head too.
I didn't think he was part of this team.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 7:55 PM PDT reply actions  

Ugh...
Dave just called him "Freddy"

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 7:57 PM PDT reply actions  

I heard that.
Blowers pretended he didn't.

by TrashiDawa on Aug 13, 2007 8:04 PM PDT up reply actions  

Where was that?
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 7:59 PM PDT reply actions  

willie is doing one great job
over at 3rd today.  color me pleasantly surprised.

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 8:01 PM PDT reply actions  

That drops in front of Raul.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:02 PM PDT reply actions  

What's Red breaking?
That was awesome!
Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 8:02 PM PDT reply actions  

I was wondering the same thing.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:03 PM PDT up reply actions  

I'll hand it to Willie
He's had a nice few innings at third so far.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:03 PM PDT reply actions  

Sonic Dance team tryouts on FSN
why do I feel like I'm watching Cinemax at midnight?

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:05 PM PDT reply actions  

not really
Although if you take away their clothes, I'm complaining less.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:11 PM PDT up reply actions  

willie has been taking notes
on adrian.  im now convinced with that last play.

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 8:11 PM PDT reply actions  

That was a pretty nice play
although Beltre makes it shinier with the barehand.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:11 PM PDT reply actions  

Beautiful at bat.
How badly did Felix need that inning?

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:13 PM PDT reply actions  

Santana hitting our best player
this means war. And by war, I mean signing Santana to a 10 year contract.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:17 PM PDT reply actions  

n/s
Chad Billingsly walked Brad Ausmus and Roy Oswalt back-to-back.

which walk is more embarrassing?

WHAT ARE YOU DOING JOHNNY MAC?!?!

by MFAN on Aug 13, 2007 8:17 PM PDT reply actions  

Ausmus
Chad can at least make the excuse with Oswalt that he wanted him on base, so that he'd have to run around and wear himself out.

by Katal LM on Aug 13, 2007 8:19 PM PDT up reply actions  

Sexson K's!
I knew there was something missing.

These games are a lot more entertaining when we're losing and bitter about it.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:21 PM PDT reply actions  

Agreed.
Angry writing is so much more fun.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:21 PM PDT up reply actions  

I can't fault Richie for that.
Johan's changeup is the stuff sexy dreams are made of.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:21 PM PDT reply actions  

Who is the pitcher....
that is like 18-0 against some team? I remember seeing it a while back.

Isn't it Oswalt against the Cards or something?

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 8:22 PM PDT reply actions  

Adam Jones breaks his bat.
It is now sized appropriately for Reggie Willits.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:22 PM PDT reply actions  

Adam Jones....
is 0 for his last 6. Clearly we were far too excited about him.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 8:23 PM PDT reply actions  

Nick Punto is being a douche
Really needs to be walking to the dugout right now.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:25 PM PDT reply actions  

Strikes Felix
Throw them.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:25 PM PDT reply actions  

Okay
I think I just hate no-hit middle infielders.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:25 PM PDT reply actions  

seriously, it's Nick Punto
WHAT ARE YOU DOING JOHNNY MAC?!?!

by MFAN on Aug 13, 2007 8:25 PM PDT reply actions  

Tyner = .270/.320/.341 DH
Remember, we could always have it worse.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:26 PM PDT reply actions  

Uh oh's
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:27 PM PDT reply actions  

From Wikipedia
"Punto is one of four Twins players known for speed and small ball, nicknamed "The Piranhas" by White Sox manager, Ozzie Guillen. The Twins have embraced the term. The other Piranhas are Jason Tyner, Jason Bartlett, and formerly, Luis Castillo, who was traded to the New York Mets on July 30, 2007."

Aren't piranhas supposed to be deadly or at least mildly hurty?

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:27 PM PDT reply actions  

Should of just called that ball fair ump.
Because regardless it's a man on 2nd with 1 out.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:27 PM PDT reply actions  

This is a funny game of one-upsmanship.
Santana thought he won with that changeup to Sexson, but alas...

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:30 PM PDT reply actions  

That was absolutely filthy
I don't want to jinx it, but this is looking like Boston one-hitter Felix.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:30 PM PDT reply actions  

eh
strikezone is kinda tiny. Santana has had some close pitches too.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:32 PM PDT up reply actions  

Ok cant remember who the diamond backs fan is
but whoever you are (goose possibly?) what do you think bout conner jackson need a 1b backup 1b on my fantasy team an i am thinking bout him
Spider pig, spider pig does whatever a spider pig does.

by wadswerth on Aug 13, 2007 8:31 PM PDT reply actions  

He's a good buy low option right now.
Him and the rest of the young D-Back hitters have been doing much better since they fired their hitting coach.

Well...except Stephen Drew....I don't know what his problem is.

These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:33 PM PDT up reply actions  

cool thanks
had to get rid of chris duncan on the fact he has done nothing, on one of my teams 1b is my weakest position adam laroche has been my starter but he comes an goes so i need a decent backup incase laroche goes cold again
Spider pig, spider pig does whatever a spider pig does.

by wadswerth on Aug 13, 2007 8:35 PM PDT up reply actions  

1st Half:.765 OPS, 2nd Half:.880 OPS
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:35 PM PDT up reply actions  

Damn you Joe Mauer
8-14 off Felix.

I like your sideburns though.

by WeeJoe on Aug 13, 2007 8:32 PM PDT reply actions  

Vidro with the D?
old man can still shake and bake

by WeeJoe on Aug 13, 2007 8:33 PM PDT reply actions  

Felix's attitude is back.....
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:34 PM PDT reply actions  

Sweet Jesus
I thought Vidro was going trip over his fat ankles and botch that play.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:34 PM PDT reply actions  

Cankles
They're called cankles...
Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 8:35 PM PDT up reply actions  

meh
that's what you get for putting Punto on base twice.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING JOHNNY MAC?!?!

by MFAN on Aug 13, 2007 8:34 PM PDT reply actions  

That's cool, take your time Jose.
99 pitches already. Get ready to see a lot of John Parrish.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:35 PM PDT reply actions  

Yuni!!
It's good to have a productive middle infielder again.
Felix, you magnificent bastard.

by Double06 on Aug 13, 2007 8:36 PM PDT reply actions  

Yunibomber!
I'm glad that we can bring that back.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:36 PM PDT reply actions  

Why can't...
Lopez do that stuff any more?

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 8:37 PM PDT reply actions  

It is an epic battle
of who can hit more foul balls and prolong the game
I type 101 words a minute. But its in my own language.

by andyboi on Aug 13, 2007 8:40 PM PDT up reply actions  

Twins fans
are probably as angry at Willie now as we are at Punto.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:40 PM PDT reply actions  

WHY DO PEOPLE SLIDE INTO FIRST BASE?
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:40 PM PDT reply actions  

See Willie, that dive took about a half second off
your time to first! That half second makes you safe!
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:41 PM PDT reply actions  

Wow he looked safe
Next time don't be a moron and don't slide.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:41 PM PDT reply actions  

God damn that was close.
C'mon, Willie, get your cracker ass in his face!

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:41 PM PDT reply actions  

Ichiro looks pretty fooled up there.
This Santana guy must be legit.

by bpdawg24 on Aug 13, 2007 8:42 PM PDT reply actions  

Fuck this...
non-contact play bullshit.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 8:42 PM PDT reply actions  

TURBO!
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:44 PM PDT reply actions  

Are game threads usually dead on Mondays?
Or is it just because everyone's at the game?

by WeeJoe on Aug 13, 2007 8:45 PM PDT reply actions  

A good chunk are at the game.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:46 PM PDT up reply actions  

People at the game mostly
and it really isn't the most exciting game ever. Aside from the Richie double, almost nothing has been far out of the infield.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 8:48 PM PDT up reply actions  

I wish I lived in Seattle...
it's like a big family over here with mostly people from Seattle I'm assuming....

by WeeJoe on Aug 13, 2007 8:51 PM PDT up reply actions  

VIDRO!!
Are we really going to beat Johan Santana?!

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:45 PM PDT reply actions  

The Nats beat him with Mike Bacsik...
...you know, the washed-up journeyman who gave up Bonds' 756th.  If they could do it, you can do it.

by esoteric on Aug 13, 2007 8:47 PM PDT up reply actions  

damn...
we're good!

by gblady on Aug 13, 2007 8:46 PM PDT reply actions  

guillen....
you looked un-smart on that swing.

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 8:47 PM PDT reply actions  

Just 3 strikeouts for Santana.
We're a team of Placido Polanco's.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:47 PM PDT reply actions  

Ichiro hurts this team by not
wanting to end the inning
I type 101 words a minute. But its in my own language.

by andyboi on Aug 13, 2007 8:50 PM PDT reply actions  

ichiro does not judge wild pitches well
or maybe he's just super cautious on them

by Zack on Aug 13, 2007 8:50 PM PDT reply actions  

Bah
would've liked to get one more run.
Free Adam Jones

by bluemax on Aug 13, 2007 8:50 PM PDT reply actions  

LOL....
Red is back there sticking a fork in Raul.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 8:50 PM PDT reply actions  

All right, Felix/bullpen
don't make me upset that we couldn't score more there.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:50 PM PDT reply actions  

Hmmm.
Submitted w/o comment:

Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 8:50 PM PDT reply actions  

Um yeah, 100 through 5.
What say ye to a 3 pitch inning?

by bpdawg24 on Aug 13, 2007 8:51 PM PDT reply actions  

And ruin team chemistry
by not letting all his teamates get involved? No sir
I type 101 words a minute. But its in my own language.

by andyboi on Aug 13, 2007 8:53 PM PDT up reply actions  

MLB.tv has been bad tonight
stop buffering for the love of God.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING JOHNNY MAC?!?!

by MFAN on Aug 13, 2007 8:52 PM PDT reply actions  

Ok, I'll say it.
Willie Ballgame has been good at third base tonight.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:55 PM PDT reply actions  

And McLaren would say...
Aside from the first inning bobble, Vidro's looked good at second.
Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 8:56 PM PDT up reply actions  

I just came over from Bakers blog
And I actually had someone tell me that Sexson was an awesome player because if you took out all of the "slump numbers" then he has been awesome all year.

Yeah, I've just about had it with that blog.

by Faceplant25 on Aug 13, 2007 9:00 PM PDT up reply actions  

excellent inning
WHAT ARE YOU DOING JOHNNY MAC?!?!

by MFAN on Aug 13, 2007 8:55 PM PDT reply actions  

im happy that was a quick inning
but its mildly concerning that ballgame is killing over at 3rd.  he isnt a bad fielder...but he looks like a GD gold glover over there.  thats disconcerting.

by deacvision7 on Aug 13, 2007 8:55 PM PDT reply actions  

Love that fist pump
There's nothing quite like seeing Felix walking off the mound with that swagger in his step

by HR4 on Aug 13, 2007 8:57 PM PDT reply actions  

Nice!
I knew they'd give 'em to "Circle Me Bert!!!"
Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 8:57 PM PDT reply actions  

You can't give rally fries to Bert Blyleven!
One, it's a curse, and two, he can't eat them on the air.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 8:57 PM PDT reply actions  

I hope...
he let out a "What the fuck are these for?!?!?!" on the air.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 8:58 PM PDT up reply actions  

Hey Richie, you don't like the boos? I got an idea
DEMAND A TRADE!
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:59 PM PDT reply actions  

Wow, that was fucking retarded Johjima.
Why the hell did you do that?
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 8:59 PM PDT reply actions  

Or line out.
That was hit better than Raul's single. Baseball is ironic.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 9:01 PM PDT up reply actions  

adam jones
looks like the veterans have already taught him how to hack at every pitch he sees

yay team chemistry!

by seattlebruin on Aug 13, 2007 9:01 PM PDT reply actions  

As Grimace just mentioned...
John Parrish making his M's Safeco debut!

If that's not enough to get you excited...

Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 9:03 PM PDT up reply actions  

Oh goody!!
A Parrish sighting. This game is well in hand.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 9:02 PM PDT reply actions  

BOO
Sit down, Parrish. I don't want you to ruin this game.

by Katal LM on Aug 13, 2007 9:02 PM PDT reply actions  

That's a good omen...
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 9:03 PM PDT reply actions  

Yep, it's Parrish.
Of course he isn't in a mop-up role. Of course.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 9:03 PM PDT reply actions  

why the hell
is the worst pitcher on our team not named ho in the game?

and that pitch was wonderful

by seattlebruin on Aug 13, 2007 9:04 PM PDT reply actions  

Those are not Felix' numbers
don't try and bring shame to his performance.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 9:04 PM PDT reply actions  

Sweet
If there's one thing this team's needed for a while, it's a bullpen lefty who can't throw strikes.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 9:04 PM PDT reply actions  

You guys don't understand!!!!!
Parrish can throw on back-to-back days!!!!!

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 9:04 PM PDT reply actions  

Good grief....
Get this jack stain out of here.

by PLU Tim on Aug 13, 2007 9:06 PM PDT reply actions  

Say bye bye to the lead!
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 9:06 PM PDT reply actions  

Dear John.
DIAF.

KTHXBYE

Hey McLaren -- RAUL CANNOT PLAY LEFT FIELD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

by PositivePaul on Aug 13, 2007 9:06 PM PDT reply actions  

What. The. Fuck.
John fucking McLaren is throwing in the mother fucking towel.

by JLC on Aug 13, 2007 9:06 PM PDT reply actions  

John Parrish's strike%
is lower than Brandon Morrow's strike%.

And that strike got killed.

by Jeff Sullivan on Aug 13, 2007 9:06 PM PDT reply actions  

between the lineup and parrish
do you think tim donaghy gave mclaren a call this morning?

by seattlebruin on Aug 13, 2007 9:06 PM PDT reply actions  

Ugh this is awful
Parrish, why, why?
Free Adam Jones

by bluemax on Aug 13, 2007 9:07 PM PDT reply actions  

3 batters too late dumbass.
These pretzels....are making me thirsty!

by Goose on Aug 13, 2007 9:07 PM PDT reply actions