Yardbarker: Major League Baseball

Potential Naming Rights Suitors for Nationals Park

Washington Nationals — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 02:07:49 -0500

Ok, so the television ratings are on par with the 2 a.m. showing of Cheaters on WDCA. Attendance figures, while not dismal, are disappointing and partly inflated by a season ticket base that might not be so motivated to re-up next year. Other indicators of interest, such as internet traffic and MLB.com's ability to identify which league the Nats play in are embarrassing.

Clearly, this isn't such a good time to be selling the stadium's naming rights...or is it? The price might have come down just enough to let some more intriguing players into the bidding.

1) Easterns Motors - Easterns Motors has achieved local notoriety for their use of local sports celebrities in their commercials. I assume they have used a Nat or two, though I, of course, have no idea what any Nats look like. Perhaps they could jump in with a bid.

2) Kim's Karate - "Nobody bothers me! Nobody bothers me, either!" It's the perfect sentiment for those lonely nights at Kim's Karate Park when you're the only fan in your section.

3) Saiontz, Kirk and Miles - "When you have a phone, you have a reliever." This is perfect for the many, many calls to the bullpen Manny Acta will be making for the foreseeable future. Or at least for the season or so he has left.

4) Senate Insurance - These commercials are a local legend, thanks to the catchphrase "Kiss my bumper! Just kiss it!" There are multiple in-game tie-ins with this sponsorship. If the Nats ever win a game before their last out, announcers could call it the Senate Insurance Run. On the rare occasions the Nats homer, the announcers could do a little "Kiss it goodbye! Just kiss it!". I like the options here.

5) Six Flags - This is too easy to resist. Redskins owner Danny Boy Snyder, when not paying wrongful decapitation and wrongful de-foot-itation damages, owns Six Flags also. If you click the play button below, you'll see that awful We Like to Party/Venga Boys commercial with the creepy old dancing guy.

6) Koons Ford/Toyota/Etc. - Ok, I've always been strangely attracted to Crystal Koons.

Any other ideas?

"Overrated" is Overused. Think About It

New York Yankees — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 01:51:54 -0500

In general, Derek Jeter isn't overrated. He can't possibly be. Google it. You'll see. It isn't just because I am a Yankee honk. I am. But I am also a realist, and a writer. I think that combination of fanatical allegiance, perpetual examination, and obligation to facts has brought me to the point where I must voice my objection to the use of the term "overrated" in situations where no high rating actually exists. The most glaring example of late is the bashing that Derek Jeter is taking by so many of those who reside on the other side of that line which divides the Yankee and nearly everyone else on the planet. There is no middle ground on which a true fan of baseball can stand. The Yanks are not anyone's second favorite team. Met fans boo Jeter enthusiastically. A cottage tee-shirt industry exists in Boston dedicated to Jeter hating. Even a city like Seattle, whose crowning moment was winning one division series against the Yankees (13 years ago), has its Jeter detractors and, you see where this is going. They certainly don't rate him highly. The point is made that the media loves Jeter. True. Why shouldn't they? He is a rich bachelor with titles and models and plenty of media who loves such things. But don't confuse "beloved" with "highly rated". To be highly rated you have to be placed among the best. You have to be touted as the best or nearly the best at a particular thing. But still, I can't seem to find anyone with baseball chops willing to anoint him the best shortstop ever without making some sort of qualifying remark. The media outlets of the world love extreme winners and extreme losers. They love Cinderella stories but only for a while. Also-rans and nearly-weres don't sell ad space. To be overrated your placement among your peers must be above that which evidence will support. It is not enough to think someone is overrated. It also isn't enough to have an emotional reaction to a person and then conclude that they certainly are overrated. They must actually underperform statistically compared to their rating. Sure, screaming teens in pink NY caps might overrate him, but I'm sure they don't know his career fielding percentage is .975 or that he has more career hits than Joe Dimaggio, Mickey Mantle and only 68 fewer than Babe Ruth. But sure, the Google hits when I type in the search string "Jeter best SS" number near a million. So he must be overrated, right? Google it. Then find the first hit that doesn't say "Jeter is not the best shortstop" or something of that ilk. It's on page two. And that person's credentials are suspect. Overrated is a word that implies contempt. It reeks of disrespect. In Jeter's case it is unwarranted by virtue that he is rated low in the court of public opinion. Show me otherwise. Show me the respected journalist who places Jeter too highly, and doesn't weigh his opinion based on hitting. YES Network doesn't count for obvious conflict of interest issues.

Another Cubs Blog Presents: Profiles in Excellence- The Interweb’s Reaction to the Big Trade

Chicago Cubs — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 01:50:05 -0500

Viva El Birdos- Murton and Gallagher lack any real value, except of course to Billy Beane here. Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS by Hardcore Legend on Jul 8, 2008 3:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs I gotta say, i'm not a fan of Mo not beating that offer Murton and Gallagher = Skip(Shumaker) and (Mitch) Boggs boo cubs, hooray beer by Raconteur on Jul 8, 2008 3:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs And This wonderful exchange- Maybe SS needs to give this guy a tip on how the sale is really going to work This deal reeks of knee jerk. The Cubs know that they are getting older, with big contracts, and an ownership group in question. THEY HAVE TO WIN NOW…next year, they're another year older and deeper in debt. The Brewers don't have to win now – they'd like to, but they have another two years or so before they get to free agent hell. Look – Harden gives them what – 16 starts in the 2nd half? If he's healthy? That's 16 chances where they increase their odds of winning – but baseball is a funny game in that the odds of winning don't always play out. Stay the course Mo!!! Play competitive baseball all year long and develop the youngsters. Don't keep up the up with the Joneses and potentially sacrifice years of good yound cheap talent for a rental. 1 year of potential greatness is not worth 4 years of mediocre, inept baseball. I have discovered in twenty years of moving around a ball park, that the knowledge of the game is usually in inverse proportion to the price of the seats. ~Bill Veeck by bukowski on Jul 8, 2008 5:02 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs If my memory serves me correct, the Cubs this really isn't a knee jerk reaction from the Cubs. They have pursuing a front of the rotation type for several weeks. Life is short! Break the rules! And never regret anything that made you smile. by Section8 on Jul 8, 2008 5:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs So have a dozen other teams in baseball…it doesn't matter. Again – 16 slightly better chances to win, with a huge injury risk. Think they'll be able to keep him next year? If so, with new management next year, how much does it take, and what impact does this have in 2009 and beyond? I have discovered in twenty years of moving around a ball park, that the knowledge of the game is usually in inverse proportion to the price of the seats. ~Bill Veeck by bukowski on Jul 8, 2008 5:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs my point was that they have been talking with the A's for a while about Harden. I agree with you about everything else. I was just clarifying that it really wasn't a knee jerk reaction. Life is short! Break the rules! And never regret anything that made you smile. by Section8 on Jul 8, 2008 5:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs I misspoke and stand corrected. Harden will be a Cub next year. Still, they're going to be older and more decrepit. Sorry – this trade just makes me mad for some reason. I have discovered in twenty years of moving around a ball park, that the knowledge of the game is usually in inverse proportion to the price of the seats. ~Bill Veeck by bukowski on Jul 8, 2008 5:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs BrewCrew Ball- This one made me laugh a bit Faaaaaaaaaaaaccccccckkkkk Lordz Of Vengeance....If I'm not drunk, I'm at work. by Dikembe Meiztombo on Jul 8, 2008 4:12 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs This post begs the question of what will we do without all our major league (AAA) depth ?? Let's compare trades We get a horse who was second in the AL in complete games with only one man from the 40-man roster and zero who were counted on to provide anything at the ML level. The Cubs got an injury prone pitcher who is slightly less effective than CC for three guys off their 25 man roster. For impact this year I think the Brewers come out ahead. The Cubs traded away major league depth to marginally improve their starting pitching. The Brewers improved their major league depth while getting a similar marginal improvement in pitching. For 2009 and beyond the Cubs are ahead, but I'll worry about that playoff race once this one is done. by Getting Yosted on Jul 8, 2008 4:22 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs Over at A's nation- the flagship of the SB nation juggenaut we have some real head scraters including this entire diary which suggests that all of sport is rigged because of this trade. Highlight comments include- This guy wanted Gallager and 2 others for Gaudin alone and didnt believe Harden was included at first Yeah, actually Gaudin for Murton/Gallagher/someone makes some sense… Harden AND Gaudin for that is crazy talk. Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal. by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 3:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs This stupid fuck cant appreciate what a good GM he has and has suddenly forgotten all those playoff appearances PLEASE SAY IT AIN"T SO So when did we give up on the season & become a minor league cub. Why root for the A's anymore- I am so tired of good players going & we getting players that are great for a 3rd place team. I am tired of making the guys on the other side look good. I am tired of Billy's scheme to make this team, that will never do anything but looks somewhat good- still hoping for the future. As a A's fan for over 40 yrs., I am tired of rooting yr after yr. for a team that isn't going anywhere & have no hope for the future- It's been 20 years – 20 Years since we won a World Series. Please trade Billy, I can't take it anymore by goodguy on Jul 8, 2008 8:05 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs And this poor soul isnt sure if they are alive anymore holy crap i think i just died There's no crying in baseball! by gigglingone on Jul 8, 2008 3:42 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs Our own Bleed Cubbie Blue comes through with some gems as well, our old buddy BlueMike from Cali got all mushy on the inside Zambrano and Harden That is one helluva good 1-2 punch. As good or better than anybody in baseball. Rich Harden is a diamond carat stud. I fainted upon seeing the Comcast report. Cubs get Rich Harden !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We got an ace !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! by MDBNIU on Jul 8, 2008 3:56 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs And the rest of the always expressive BCB crowd which shows us why ACB is considered to be populated with "morons" by Mr. Al Yellon. How could we possibly top the following eloquence.. bad bad bad bad bad bad bad bad BAD! by drewishdrewid on Jul 8, 2008 3:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs RICH HARDEN RICH HARDEN RICH HARDEN RICH HARDEN by Canseco's Roid Party on Jul 8, 2008 5:23 PM PDT reply actions ahh yes Mr. Yellon, your blog is truly an oasis of discourse and debate. Kudos and keep up the good work!

The First Six "Governors" of Red Sox Nation Announced

Boston Red Sox — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 01:13:34 -0500

The Boston Red Sox today announced the selection of the first-ever Governors of Red Sox Nation. One Governor was chosen from each of the six New England states. As reported by the Red Sox, Each of these men and women will help promote the growth of Red Sox Nation within their home state while also providing the President (Jerry Remy) and Vice President (‘Regular’ Rob Crawford) of Red Sox Nation with feedback on fan related issues throughout the remainder of the season. An outgrowth of the Red Sox Nation Five-Point Plan announced this past spring, the Governors program will aim to provide unique access for some of the most loyal Red Sox fans and collect valuable feedback from a diverse collection of Red Sox Nation citizens and members. It will strive to obtain a manageable and measurable method for collecting fan feedback and create a platform for the sharing of concepts related to grassroots fan networking across the United States. By embracing fan participation, the Governors program will help to establish the foundation for the official census of Red Sox Nation. More than 800 fans submitted an application for a New England gubernatorial position. Each applicant responded to two short-answer essay questions and had the opportunity to solicit support from his or her friends. These endorsements served as a key component in the selection process. “Red Sox Nation has no shortage of vocal and exuberant voices,” said Red Sox Nation President Jerry Remy. “These six individuals will help represent the fans in each of their home states, and help organize gatherings and events for all of the loyal fans in their communities.” THE GOVERNORS ARE: Massachusetts - Nineteen year-old Jared Carrabis of Saugus, the second-runner-up in the President of Red Sox Nation election held last year, will represent his home state of Massachusetts. An aspiring sports journalist, Carrabis has had a share of season tickets since 1997. Connecticut - West Hartford resident and retired Connecticut Supreme Court Judge David Borden has been appointed as Governor of Red Sox Nation for the state of Connecticut. A graduate of Amherst College and Harvard Law School, Borden has been actively involved in community service throughout his adult life and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Maine - Brunswick resident Rachel O. Yacouby will serve as Governor of Red Sox Nation for the state of Maine. Yacouby is currently working as the Audience Services Manager at Maine State Music Theatre in Brunswick. New Hampshire - Henniker resident and Registered Nurse Janice Page has been appointed as Governor of Red Sox Nation for her home state of New Hampshire. Page has worked for the Visiting Nurse Association of Manchester and Southern New Hampshire for 10 years as a Home Care Coordinator. She and her husband Jeff are the proud parents of six daughters. Rhode Island - Charles T. (Ted) Schmidt, Jr., a resident of Saunderstown, RI, has been named Governor of Red Sox Nation for the state of Rhode Island. A retired professor/Labor Arbitrator Mediator, Schmidt holds degrees at UMass Amherst, Northeastern University (MBA), Cornell’s Industrial Relations School (Master’s Degree), and Michigan State University (Ph.D.). He is the founding Director of the Schmidt Labor Research Center, which was named in his honor upon retirement from URI in 1999, where he worked for 31 years. Vermont - Glen Jardine, a native of Lyndonville, VT, has been named Governor of Red Sox Nation for the state of Vermont. Jardine works in the advertising and new media department of his local newspaper, The Caledonian-Record. Jardine currently lives in the small town of Wheelock, VT, with his girlfriend and their two dogs. Residents of Washington, D.C. and the remaining 44 states may now apply for the position of Governor. Deadline for submissions is July 29. For more information and to apply, visit redsoxnation.com (http://redsoxnation.com/). Governors will be selected on or about August 12. The selected Governors will receive an Unlimited Fenway Park Tours Pass for two, two tickets to a select 2008 Red Sox regular season game, a Certificate of Governorship signed by the President/CEO of the Red Sox, periodic “Governors Only” conference calls with the Vice President of Red Sox Nation and a select Red Sox executive, a Red Sox Nation shirt, a 2009 Red Sox Nation Fan Pack Citizenship, a subscription to MLB.tv (http://mlb.tv/), personalized “Red Sox Nation Governor” business cards and a photograph of the Fenway Park centerfield videoboard with their name on it. Source: The Boston Red SoxMaury Brown is the Founder and President of the Business of Sports Network (http://www.businessofsportsnetwork.com/), which includes The Biz of Baseball (http://www.bizofbasketball.com/), The Biz of Football (http://www.bizoffootball.com/), The Biz of Basketball (http://www.bizofbasketball.com/) and The Biz of Hockey (http://bizofhockey.com/). He is contributor to Baseball Prospectus (http://baseballprospectus.com/news/?author=124), and is available as a freelance writer.Brown's full bio is here. (http://www.businessofsportsnetwork.com/index.php?option=com_content view=article id=47 Itemid=18) He looks forward to your comments via email and can be contacted through the Business of Sports Network (http://www.businessofsportsnetwork.com/index.php?option=com_contact view=contact id=2 Itemid=29).

The Media Circus

Chicago Cubs — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:55:03 -0500

If Tom Smykowski from Office Space ever saw his dream of the "jump to conclusions" game come to reality, we have to assume that the mainstream sports media would be camping out in front of Toys 'R Us to get their hands on it. Nobody is better at squeezing rock solid facts from minimal information than sports writers and talking heads. Some even get paid to do it.

Over at Yahoo! Sports, Steve Henson got the call to do a mid-season review of Major League Baseball and hand out some grades. Along with those grades came a few turns on the jump to conclusions mat.

"Yet the Cubs are positioned nicely to end their century-long World Series title drought. Getting through the NL playoffs shouldn't be daunting."

The NL playoffs are really just a formality should the Cubs make it. Matter of fact, we heard they've already hired the Behind the Music dude to do the voiceover for the World Series DVD. That guy does some mean voice work.

"One of many teams tough to beat at home, and 43 of their last 81 games are at Miller Park."

For those keeping score at home, that means the Brewers play a whopping 53% of their remaining games at home. Looks like Mr. Selig may be pulling some strings for his old club. Can you say "unfair advantage"?

"It doesn't appear the Phillies would be a strong World Series representative ? they lost 9 of 12 in a late-June interleague swing."

You know who would be a good representative in the World Series? The Royals. They went 13-5 in interleague, they'd be a lock.

This game is almost like hop scotch, only more fun!

Crap that actually came from somebody's mouth

"The writer interviewed 146 players for the book, unearthing details such as Charles Haley's fondness for exposing his genitals to teammates. It's a delicious read."- Richard Deitsch, SI Media Circus

We enjoy reading Deitsch's weekly offerings, but any reference to exposing one's genitals directly followed by the words "it's a delicious read" is automatic JSF Media Circus material. We don't care who you are.
___

"Playing for any old NFL team would be crime enough to many of (Brett Favre's) faithful, but playing for a rival like Minnesota or Chicago would be like Johnny Damon spurning the Red Sox for the Yankees. Times five." - Peter King

Did you know that Johnny Damon is 1/5 the person Brett Favre is? It's true.
___

"I keep hearing Favre was pushed into retirement by the Packers demanding an early decision this off-season, or by Thompson not showing him enough love. He might feel that way, but I think it's nonsense. Favre stood up in front of the world six weeks after he played his last game and said he was finished. If he's not, the Packers are not to blame." - Peter King

For as much as we (and many others) give ole Petey a hard time about his Favre stalker habits, we have to give credit when the writer still follows objectivity in the midst of a smoldering love affair. Kudos.

___

"Favre's agent, Bus Cook, called this scenario more than four months ago. He told ESPN's Chris Mortensen that Thompson did "nothing" to encourage Favre to continue playing. That could mean two things: Thompson respected Favre's decision, or Thompson wanted to staple gun Favre's name to the NFL retirement list. I'm going with the staple gun plot." - Gene Wojciechowski, ESPN.com

Of course Gene has no evidence of the "staple gun plot", or any evidence that Favre even wants to come back for that matter, but it sure does make for an easier column when he pretends he does.

___

"It's not just NBA players who have the fiscal sense of the Taco Bell Chihuahua." ? Rick Reilly, ESPN the Magazine
What does $3 million get you in the sports media market these days? Hilarious references to the Taco Bell Chihuahua.

Media Rant - Federer Passes Torch to Nadal in Attempt to Change Guard

After Rafael Nadal captured the Wimbledon title in a near five hour match against his arch-nemesis, Roger Federer, the collective reaction of the mainstream media was nothing, if not predictable. While we certainly don't fancy ourselves as tennis fans with insightful opinions, we still hold the perceived ability to point out nonsense in the land of media absurdity - even when it revolves around tennis.

For the record, we don't doubt or even question the opinions of anyone who argues Sunday's final was the greatest tennis match they've "ever seen", especially when it comes from former champions John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg. It's completely subjective. We do, however, disagree with people like J.A. Adande, who claim Sunday's match was a greater sporting event than any Super Bowl or any NBA Finals of the past 20 years. That argument is also subjective, but has a lot more holes in it.

The one consistent argument we encountered in the Wimbledon fallout that we absolutely disagree with is the "passing of the torch" or "changing of the guard". Aside from the fact that it's a completely nebulous title, isn't that something that we won't truly know until history runs its course? While it's certainly possible that Sunday marked such an occasion, it could also be that Federer beats Nadal in their next match and wins the French Open next year.

That thought didn't occur to many of our mainstream media friends. In their world, it's not even up for debate: we witnessed a changing of the guard or passing of the torch. Read and witness the absurdity...

"The torch wasn't passed, it was ripped." - Chris Fowler, ESPN

"It was a match that marked the passing of a torch, and as darkness settled upon the most famous tennis venue on the globe, Wimbledon Centre Court, a torch or two would have been helpful."- Art Spander, CBS Sports

"In tennis, the most recent passing-the-torch moment came here at Wimbledon. Instructively, Federer was on the other side of the exchange. Sampras had won four straight championships at the All England Club (1997 to 2000), and seven of eight overall. Federer, only 19, beat Sampras 7-5 in the fifth set of a fourth-round match, ending the champion's 31-match winning streak."- Greg Garber, ESPN, in a column titled "Sea-change moment in Nadal's Wimbledon championship"

"I believe that Nadal has not only caught Federer, but he's surpassed him." - Woody Paige (ballsy claim by Paige after Nadal just beat Federer, eh?)

"Rafael Nadal ended Roger Federer's five-year reign at Wimbledon on Sunday, winning a riveting, five-set marathon to claim his first title at the All England Club and signal a changing of the guard in men's tennis." - Associated Press

"After five riveting sets and 4 hours, 48 minutes of play, there was a changing of the guard at Wimbledon on Sunday." - Stephen Wilson, AP

So it's settled; 26 year old Roger Federer passed the torch to Rafael Nadal on Sunday - just as it was 100% proof positive that the Patriots were a dynasty after their Super Bowl XXXVIII victory. If you say so, mainstream media.

Thankfully, there were a few rational thoughts muffling through the volume of the passing of the torch and changing of the guard craze.

"Changing of the guard? Maybe it is, but do not write (Roger Federer) off." - Patrick McEnroe

"It took everything he had to dethrone Federer, let's give it a couple more years."- Kevin Blackistone

Thanks fellas. For a second, we thought we were the only ones.

The Return of the Big Show

Even though NBC failed to release any on-air talent for Football Night in America, the network saw fit to add another personality to the fold and reunite the wittiest sports broadcast duo of... ... 1994. Monday it was announced that Dan Patrick would be joining Keith Olbermann to call highlights on the studio show for NBC's Sunday night telecasts. If you're keeping score at home, that means the show will consist of Bob Costas, Keith Olbermann, Dan Patrick, Tiki Barber, Cris Collinsworth, Jerome Bettis and Peter King. Keep in mind the program only lasts 60 minutes, plus a halftime show.

While we certainly enjoyed the "big show" when it was conceived in the early to mid 90s, there is something about this revival that reeks of failure. Perhaps it's, oh, we don't know... five other people on the same show. That and the fact that NBC is trying to "recreate" the once great chemistry of the two. That's the problem; instead of trying to be innovative with creative and original programming, fans will be subjected to a nostalgia tour that will lose its luster after a few weeks. While it may sound good in theory or on paper to some, reality will probably prove otherwise.

From here on out when people say "The Big Show", they'll be referring to that football show with seven people. At least, that's what we think. We won't try telling that to some of the commenters on the NYT blog that originally broke the story:

Pure magic. These two guys are supposed to work together.

I will watch this program though I don't watch much football. Keith is my heart's delight: part Cary Grant, part Brando (in his later years).

I predict?they will be ?'en fuego!!' these guys were just plain funny. they would find the one highlight where the tackler pulls the runners pants down? and use that as a springboard to a sharp comment. they kind of remind me of the Marx brothers?

Dan and Keith back together again, talking football: their first, best destiny. I nominate NBC Sports for tonight's "Best Persons in the World".

This isn't quite the Beatles getting back together, but for this sports fan - it's almost the equivalent of such.

Come to think of it, there was a time when 1994 Olbermann would have fit in perfectly with the Beatles.

Bob Carpenter Memorial Snappy Line

Over the course of the summer, the Bobber has been wowed by a new breed of snappy line-sayers. Euro 2008 celebrated cultural awareness and diversity by proving that snappiness can thrive in our neighboring continents. Heck, even last week, Bobby celebrated a new Neil Everett, one that refrains from alcohol and perversion-laced snap for a more conservative, traditional approach.

So it's not surprising to see another newbie welcomed with open arms to the Carpenter Memorial. This time USA Today's Tom Weir drops a doozy regarding the most important regular season MLB trade to date:

"C.C. Sabathia apparently will say see-see you later to Cleveland, and be traded to Milwaukee."

See-see how he did that? Nothing like a clever play on a name can bring two Carpenter thumbs up. If newbie-snappy liners were TV pilots, Tom Weir just got approved for the '08 fall season.

The Media Circus is written by Josh Bacott and Patrick Imig. They swear this stuff is real. Email them at info@joesportsfan.com

Rounding The Bases: Milton Bradley > Schilling

Curt Schilling — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:29:37 -0500

I friggin' told you people Milton Bradley was just misunderstood. He loves his momma, Jesus, and America, too. [NYTimes] Curt Schilling Hearts Donovan McNabb. [The700Level] More than any athlete around right now, we want to see Alex Rodriguez fail at things. [SignalToNoise] Nick Swisher victimized by The Carebear Stare. [THOSEGirls] Bonnie Bernstein, Race, Religion and Sports. [SportsOnMyMind] We're not [...]

Nate McAwesome

Pittsburgh Pirates — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:29:37 -0500

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb3K3EBV5D4 In honor of Pirates best story of the 2008 season, Nate McLouth, I present to you this fan-made Gatorade commercial featuring the recently named all-star. As the commercial suggests, not only is McLouth talented enough to hit a walk-off homer, but he can also make Ben Sheets cry, magically change uniforms during at-bats and, transform [...]

Petition to Get Ichiro in the Home Run Derby

Seattle Mariners — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:29:37 -0500

Ichiro Suzuki , as you probably know, is a singles machine. He owns the Major League record for most singles in a season (225 one-baggers in 2004). Since June 15, he's gone 31 for 92–and all 31 hits have been singles. Sometimes it seems he can flick out his bat and slap a single into [...]

Sharing My Burgers: CC, Braun, Rickie, Billy, Riske, and Gagne

Milwaukee Brewers — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:29:32 -0500

The fates of George Webb Restaurants and the Milwaukee Brewers are intertwined in ways that even Sophocles and Shakespeare could not have envisioned. No fewer than 162 times per year, George Webb predicts that the Brewers will score at least five runs. When they do, you get six tasty George Webb burgers for [...]

Harden Traded To Cubs

Chicago Cubs — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:15:15 -0500

The NL Central, which is apparently trying to become the new AL East, acquired its second big name in as many days on Tuesday, as Oakland traded RHP Sean Gallagher, OFs Matt Murton, 2B Eric Patterson, and single-A catcher Josh Donaldson to the Cubs for pitchers Rich Harden and Chad Gaudin.

Gallagher seems to be the headliner going to the A's. He doesn't turn 23 until December, and he has already logged 10 starts (and two relief appearances) for the Cubs, with a 49:22 K:BB ratio in 58.2 innings, and a 4.45 ERA. He ranked 71st on Keith Law's top 100 prospects in the preseason, with Law noting he has a "good chance to end up a solid No. 4 in the majors". That might not sound like much, but the fact that he's already pitching in the majors, and thus the probability of him being a meaningful contributor is quite high, makes him a valuable asset at age 22.

Being a Cubs prospect, Eric Patterson has been incessantly fiddled with, having started the year at AAA and already been up and down twice. Though 25, and without a particularly high ceiling, he has hit well at Iowa, with a .323/.356/.519 line, and 10 stolen bases in 10 opportunities. With Mark Ellis' contract expiring at the end of this season, Patterson may be his replacement.

Murton has experienced a similarly hectic year, although he hadn't yet been sent down after being recalled for a second time. He has seen very limited playing time while with the Cubs, playing in 19 games but only getting more than two PAs in six. In Chicago he's struggled, with a line of .250/.286/.300. He has fared much better in more regular playing time at Iowa, batting .298/.397/.382. In 690 PAs with the Cubs in 06-07, he posted an OPS of 102. At 26, he's not going to get all that much better, and immediately jumps into Oakland's crowded outfield mix.

The final piece is Josh Donaldson, who was 76th on Law's top 100 in February. That paints a very optimistic portrait of the catcher, as he's struggled terribly in low-A this season, hitting .223/.282/.358.

Beane is buying low on the latter two, and probably selling high on Harden. He has made 11 consecutive starts, the first time he's done that since mid-2005 (that was a streak of 12 starts). His velocity was reportedly down around 87-89 two starts ago, and he complained of a dead arm. He struggled with his command--issuing four walks in five innings--in his most recent start on Sunday. So one has to wonder about his current health, as the A's would have more knowledge of that than anyone else. Or they may just think he's inevitably going to break down in the near future. Harden's contract contains a $7MM club option for 2009.

Whether Sabathia was traded "too early" is (clearly) debatable, but if Beane was going to trade Harden, sooner seems much preferred to later. The whole point of trading him is to unload risk; if that's your goal, there's not a whole lot of sense in risking him getting injured in the next three weeks.

Not to be overlooked is Gaudin, a 25-year old who has made six starts and 20 relief appearances this year. In 62.2 innings he has put up a 44:17 K:BB ratio, and has a 3.59 ERA. Though still relatively young, he made his major league debut with Tampa at 20, so he is only controlled through 2010.

Future Olympic Events

Philadelphia Flyers — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:06:47 -0500

The Olympics already include quite a few events, but there are other sports vying for acceptance at the Olympic level. Some are played as demonstrations at each Olympics to determine if they deserve promotion while others are officially recognized but not currently included. Here's a look at a few we think deserve some consideration.
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When I think high-flying, I think korfball. Doesn't everyone?

Korfball
A recognized sport similar to netball, korfball is a tactical co-ed sport in which they players must outsmart their opponents in order to throw the ball through the hoop. To my uneducated eyes, this is soccer, basketball, and ultimate frisbee combined. I'm just waiting for the green Double Dare goop to fall out of that basket onto them.
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"What do we do now that it's stuck? I can't fly that high!"

Boules
Known as Bocce in the US and already a recognized sport, this is a very interesting case study. Played very much like curling and shuffleboard, the idea is to get your balls/stones as close to the target as possible, inside of your opponent's closest ball. However, is this really any different from golf (another recognized sport)? What about horseshoes? Isn't that just throwing objects at a target also? They would have to play Bocce on a really slick surface to make this competitive at a high level, but given a difficult enough course, this could be interesting. On the other hand there would finally be a summer sport other than soccer that the Italians would have a shot in.

Wushu
A mix between karate and gymnastics, this recognized sport is popular in China and will have a competition at this year's Olympics, though the IOC has specifically stated it is not a demonstration event. Like figure skating there are cumpulsory and free-style events, both individually and in groups. There is spectacular choreographed sparring with weapons, including the staff, spear, sword, and fist. Just like any other "sport" with subjective scoring, I don't know if it belongs, but it might be cool to watch.

This looks like gymnastics until you notice they're holding swords.

Chess Boxing
Tired of hearing about players with great "sports IQs"? Always hate that the chess nerds weren't athletic? Tired of listening to another unintelligible athlete interview? This is the sport for you. The combination of an Olympic sport (boxing) and a recognized sport (chess), the contestants box and play chess through 11 alternating rounds. Brains and brawn are both required to master this ultimate challenge. I can't wait to see this. How many times have you heard a quote like this about chess: "I took a lot of body-blows in the fourth round and that affected my concentration. That's why I made a big mistake in the fifth round: I did not see him coming for my king.''

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Checkmate is hard to avoid when groggy. Is that a left hook or a Latvian Gambit? (Photo: AFP)

How about Lennox Lewis vs. Vitali Klitschko in chess boxing? ESPN says it's not as far-fetched as you think.

Beer Pong
A mix between table tennis and kegstanding, this recognized sport (at all American universities, anyway) is quite popular. Not to be confused with spinoffs like beer die, the originality and popularity of beer pong should distinguish it to the IOC. Really it's the same concept as nordic biathlon, so I don't see why it wouldn't be accepted. Both involve making it hard to shoot straight (by either vigorous exercise or drinking) and a penalty if you miss and your opponent doesn't (more exercise or drinking).

While some of these sports may seem odd or outlandish, consider that racewalking is already an Olympic sport, and ballroom dancing has already been a demonstration sport. It's only a matter of time until some cool new sport sweeps the world and makes the Olympics. Here's to hoping it's chess boxing!

West Coast Talent Exodus- Shifting Power in Sports World

Oakland Athletics — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:53:47 -0500

Harden's and Sabathia's move to the NL is part of a larger trend of NL pitching emerging superior to AL pitching. In basketball Brand's move to the Eastern conference is part of a larger trend of the Eastern Conference closing the talent gap on the Western conference.

Cubs unbeaten in Rich Harden Era

Chicago Cubs — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:48:35 -0500

The Cubs beat up on the Reds tonight 7-3. Dempster was again spectacular allowing only 2 hits in 7 innings. He allowed 1 run (he walked 4 in one inning), but the Cubs took lots of walks against Harang and had a couple of sac flies to make it 2-0 early. Fontenot went deep to make it 4-0 and it was pretty much over at that point with the way Dempster was pitching. The Cardinals won and the Brewers won so the Cubs remain 3.5 and 4.0 up, respectively. CC Sabathia made his Brewers debut tonight and went 6 innings, allowed 5 hits, walked 5 and allowed 3 runs (2 earned) and got the Win. Earlier I calculated the WAR improvement for the Cubs like I did for Sabathia and the Brewers. I don't feel like getting into that much, except to give you the numbers. I haven't included Gaudin or taken out a starting pitcher, but I figure those 2 even out anyway. If Harden continues to pitch as he has this season, the Cubs improve by 3.81 WAR. Using pre-season CHONE projections, Harden improves the Cubs by 1.73 WAR. For Sabathia it was 1.51 WAR if he continued to pitch as he has this season and 2.24 WAR if he pitched as CHONE projected. So Harden has a 2.08 WAR advantage over Sabathia using 2008 stats and Sabathia has a 0.51 WAR advantage over Harden using pre-season CHONE projections, which, to be honest, are out-dated. I could use the in-season ZIPs projection tool to get more accurate numbers and since Harden has been better it's likely his projection would be better than Sabathia's, but the long and short of it is that the Cubs, more than likely, improved more than the Brewers did. Thanks to SS for the image of Rich Harden in a Cubs uniform.

Brewers, Cubs Land Aces

Milwaukee Brewers — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:29:11 -0500

When the Milwaukee Brewers acquired CC Sabathia in a 5-player trade with the Cleveland Indians, they were a team that would challenge the Cubs and Cardinals for the NL Central division crown. That is what everyone was visioning until the Cubs came back with an answer. Rich Harden, the ace from Oakland A's, was traded to the Cubs in a 6-Player deal. The Chicago Cubs may still have the advantage over the Brewers and Cardinals. With the addition these aces, the Brewers and Cubs are clearly going to be neck and neck throughout the rest of the season. The X-factor of this contention is who's relief pitching squad will step it up and win games. Right now the cubs have a stronger squad, but the brewers may have something up their sleeves. The second half of the season will be very dramatic with this NL Central race and the story of the Tampa Bay Rays shocking season. In the NL Central, I believe that it will only be the Cubs and Brewers fighting for the division crown. I think the Cardinals are not good enough and and just do not have the confidence that they can beat the Cubs and Brewers. I want to see the Cubs go into the playoffs winning the NL Central and the Brewers out of the Wild Card. They are both very talented teams with a lot of offensive power. When they play each other in the regular season and maybe in the playoffs, it is must see baseball.

Cubs Make Deal for Harden

Chicago Cubs — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:22:10 -0500

Cubs GM Jim Hendry wasted no time in answering the Brewers move for Sabathia the other day. He landed RH starter Rich Harden from the A's. Hendry said the deal was in the works for the last couple of weeks, but heated up over the holiday weekend. Harden is only 26 and has an option for '09. He has a 5-3 record with a 2.34 ERA in 13 starts and 92 SO in 77 innings. While his numbers are good and he is young, he also has a tendency to get injured, having gone to the DL six times since '05. The Cubs also got 25-year old reliever Chad Gaudin. He is 5-3 with a 3.59 ERA in 26 appearances. Guadin will be used out of the bullpen, but could also start if necessary. In exchange, the Cubs traded starter Sean Gallagher, OF Matt Murton, minor leaguers OF Eric Patterson and catcher Josh Donaldson. The move provides the Chicago with a second (potential) ace at the top of their rotation to pair with Carlos Zambrano, although Harden's health problems will obviously remain a concern. Oakland acquires an assortment of minor leaguers that appear to be ready for the big show. Gallagher has shown flashes of brilliance early this season and Murton has already proved that he can hit for average in the big leagues. Once again, Billy Beane seems to have pulled off a great deal for the future.

Thunder Matt Murton, 2005-2008

Chicago Cubs — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:14:23 -0500

The staff at TMS bid adieu to our blog's namesake as he heads to greener pastures, and a greener uniform.

History Made: First D-League Player Drafted by the NBA: Mike Taylor, Idaho Stampede

Portland Trail Blazers — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:11:19 -0500

A little bit of history happened tonight at the NBA Draft when you weren't lookinmg...Idaho Stampede guard Mike Taylor was selected with the 55th overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft by the Portland Trailblazers becoming the first player from the NBA Development League to be drafted by an NBA team. A member of the 2008 NBA D-League Champion Stampede, Taylor was then traded to the Los Angeles Clippers for a future second round draft pick. "Everyone at the NBA D-League joins me in congratulating Mike on his history-making achievement," said Dan Reed, NBA D-League President. "Mike is a shining example of the NBA D-League's core mission – to develop top prospects into NBA players." In 39 games for the Stampede this past season, Taylor averaged 14.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 4.3 assists primarily as the team's sixth man, scoring 20 or more points on 11 occasions, including during the deciding Game 3 of the NBA D-League Finals presented by Delta. During that game, Taylor connected on four three-pointers in a three-minute span in the fourth quarter to solidify the Stampede's first NBA D-League Championship. "Mike brings a tremendous amount of ability and quickness to the NBA," said Idaho Stampede head coach Bryan Gates. "He really is a spark of energy and a breath of fresh air whenever he enters a game."Source: NBA D-LeagueOTHER NEWS ACROSS THE BUSINESS OF SPORTS NETWORK SEE IT: Red Sox/AAA Ford Fusions to Run Sat. and Sun. at New Hampshire Motor Speedway - The Biz of Baseball Deadline Pushed Back to July 31st for Cubs/Wrigley Field Sale - The Biz of Baseball Dunkin?' Donuts Promo Features Joba Chamberlain and Jonathan Papelbon - The Biz of Baseball Astros GM Ed Wade Attacked by Pitcher Shawn Chacon - The Biz of Baseball Dodgers Surpass 3 Million Tickets Sold for 2008 - The Biz of Baseball Ducks owner Henry Samueli Suspended by NHL - The Biz of Hockey NHL 2K9, First Officially Licensed Game by NHL and NHLPA for Wii, Coming this Fall - The Biz of Hockey Dion Phaneuf Selected for Cover of EA Sports "NHL 09" - The Biz of Hockey NBC Reports 6.8 Million Viewers for Game 6. Up 111% from 2006 - The Biz of Hockey Papa Replaces Gumbel as NFL Network's Play-by-Play Announcer - The Biz of Football NFL Network May Partner Up With ESPN - The Biz of Football NFL Players Help Hometown Tornado Victims - The Biz of Football Recently Retired Strahan Joins Fox NFL Pregame Show - The Biz of Football Anheuser-Busch to Sponsor New Meadowlands Stadium - The Biz of Football Big Ten Network Nearing First Major Cable Deal with Comcast - The Biz of Football TNT Lands Full Slate of Sponsors For "Wide Open Coverage" Telecasts - Maury Brown's Biz of Sports Maury Brown is the Founder and President of the Business of Sports Network, which includes The Biz of Baseball, The Biz of Football, The Biz of Basketball and The Biz of Hockey. He is contributor to Baseball Prospectus, and is available as a freelance writer.Brown's full bio is here. He looks forward to your comments via email and can be contacted through the Business of Sports Network.

Minnesota Timberwolves Unveil New Updated Logos

Minnesota Timberwolves — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:11:18 -0500

In anticipation of the 20th season of Minnesota Timberwolves basketball, the Timberwolves primary logo, featuring the wolf's head amidst the tree line, has undergone a facelift. Additionally, the Timberwolves have unveiled a new, re-designed secondary logo. The new-look logos, designed by adidas, usher in a new era of Timberwolves basketball as the franchise celebrates its 20th season in the Twin Cities with the upcoming 2008-09 NBA campaign. The modification to the Timberwolves primary logo includes the incorporation of white on the wolf's head as well as a cleaner and sleeker design of the tree line and the script "Minnesota Timberwolves." The intent of the adidas design group was not to replace the well-known logo, but rather let it "evolve" into something that would mark the next era of Timberwolves basketball. The wolf's head and tree line were introduced as the team's primary logo prior to the 1996-97 season, and had remained unchanged for the past 12 seasons. The Timberwolves secondary logo has been completely re-designed. The new logo features a Timberwolf in front of a treeline howling at the moon, which is depicted as a basketball. The new secondary logo pays homage to the original Timberwolves logo with the return of a basketball in the logo's background. Prior to a basketball being incorporated in the new secondary logo, the Wolves were one of only five teams in the NBA which did not have a basketball depicted in either their primary or secondary logo. The newly-designed secondary logo will make its public debut tonight at the 2008 NBA Draft as it will adorn the hat of the Timberwolves' first-round draft pick. The Wolves NBA Draft cap, with the team's new secondary logo, and t-shirts are available for purchase at The NBA Store online at www.nbastore.com or by calling 612-673-1303. "With our 20th season upcoming, we believe it is the perfect time to re-brand the look of Timberwolves basketball," said Timberwolves President Chris Wright. "The new-look logos and soon-to-be-introduced uniforms are part of a year-long re-branding process around our franchise. In the last year, our on-court product has changed as we have re-built the team, and these off-court changes sync up with this new era of Wolves basketball." Wolves New Logos June 26, 2008 Page 2 of 2 Yesterday's introduction of the new logos is the latest step in the re-branding campaign of the Timberwolves as the team approaches its 20th season. The Wolves will also introduce newly-designed uniforms in August. Attached are jpeg copies of the Timberwolves new-look primary logos and secondary logos.Source: Minnesota Timberwolves OTHER NEWS ACROSS THE BUSINESS OF SPORTS NETWORK Aw, Tapioca! Kozy Shack the Official Pudding of the Mets - The Biz of Baseball MLB.com Releases 3-D Enhancements to Gameday - The Biz of Baseball Take in an Orioles Game, Win $50,000 or $100,000 - The Biz of Baseball SEE IT: Red Sox/AAA Ford Fusions to Run Sat. and Sun. at New Hampshire Motor Speedway - The Biz of Baseball Deadline Pushed Back to July 31st for Cubs/Wrigley Field Sale - The Biz of Baseball Dunkin?' Donuts Promo Features Joba Chamberlain and Jonathan Papelbon - The Biz of Baseball Astros GM Ed Wade Attacked by Pitcher Shawn Chacon - The Biz of Baseball Dodgers Surpass 3 Million Tickets Sold for 2008 - The Biz of Baseball Ducks owner Henry Samueli Suspended by NHL - The Biz of Hockey NHL 2K9, First Officially Licensed Game by NHL and NHLPA for Wii, Coming this Fall - The Biz of Hockey Dion Phaneuf Selected for Cover of EA Sports "NHL 09" - The Biz of Hockey NBC Reports 6.8 Million Viewers for Game 6. Up 111% from 2006 - The Biz of Hockey Papa Replaces Gumbel as NFL Network's Play-by-Play Announcer - The Biz of Football NFL Network May Partner Up With ESPN - The Biz of Football NFL Players Help Hometown Tornado Victims - The Biz of Football Recently Retired Strahan Joins Fox NFL Pregame Show - The Biz of Football Anheuser-Busch to Sponsor New Meadowlands Stadium - The Biz of Football Big Ten Network Nearing First Major Cable Deal with Comcast - The Biz of Football TNT Lands Full Slate of Sponsors For "Wide Open Coverage" Telecasts - Maury Brown's Biz of Sports Maury Brown is the Founder and President of the Business of Sports Network, which includes The Biz of Baseball, The Biz of Football, The Biz of Basketball and The Biz of Hockey. He is contributor to Baseball Prospectus, and is available as a freelance writer.Brown's full bio is here. He looks forward to your comments via email and can be contacted through the Business of Sports Network.

Record Sales of Merchandise Set for 2008 NBA FInals

Boston Celtics — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 23:11:18 -0500

The Boston Celtics' victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 6 of The Finals was the culmination of the most successful sales season in NBA history, including the best post-clinch day in history at the NBA Store and NBAStore.com. During The Finals, multiple merchandise sales records were set: Sales records set at the NBA Store in New York City and on NBAStore.com include: Largest post-clinch sales day in the history of both stores on June 18, with sales from NBAStore.com up 82 percent, and at the NBA Store up over 30 percent versus the previous best post-clinch day (2006 Miami Heat and 2002 Lakers, respectively).June 18 was the largest sales day in the history of NBAStore.com.The NBA Store and NBAStore.com each had its best sales year during the 2007-08 season. Arena Sales records for the Celtics and Lakers during The Finals include: Highest Finals average game-night sales up 10 percent from previous best (2004).Lakers set a new league single-night merchandise sales record for a non-clinching game at Staples Center's Team LA shop during Game 3 (June 10).Celtics had their highest single-night sales in history at the TD Banknorth Garden during Game 6 (June 17). Most Popular Merchandise from The Finals includes: Boston Celtics 2008 NBA Champions Locker Room tee shirt and hat from adidas sold out within minutes at the TD Banknorth Garden and have been top sellers at Modell's, Sports Authority, Dick's Sporting Goods, Champs and JCPenney.The "Beat LA" T-Shirt was the most successful team tagline tee shirt ever.Spalding Limited Edition NBA Finals Matchup basketballs sold out at the Celtics and Lakers team stores. For the first time ever, game-worn jerseys were auctioned off on NBA.com during Game 1 and Game 3.Limited Edition Kevin Garnett NBA Finals shoes from adidas sold for $1,107 a pair with all proceeds going to NBA Cares. Source: National Basketball Association OTHER NEWS ACROSS THE BUSINESS OF SPORTS NETWORK Aw, Tapioca! Kozy Shack the Official Pudding of the Mets - The Biz of Baseball MLB.com Releases 3-D Enhancements to Gameday - The Biz of Baseball Take in an Orioles Game, Win $50,000 or $100,000 - The Biz of Baseball SEE IT: Red Sox/AAA Ford Fusions to Run Sat. and Sun. at New Hampshire Motor Speedway - The Biz of Baseball Deadline Pushed Back to July 31st for Cubs/Wrigley Field Sale - The Biz of Baseball Dunkin?' Donuts Promo Features Joba Chamberlain and Jonathan Papelbon - The Biz of Baseball Astros GM Ed Wade Attacked by Pitcher Shawn Chacon - The Biz of Baseball Dodgers Surpass 3 Million Tickets Sold for 2008 - The Biz of Baseball Ducks owner Henry Samueli Suspended by NHL - The Biz of Hockey NHL 2K9, First Officially Licensed Game by NHL and NHLPA for Wii, Coming this Fall - The Biz of Hockey Dion Phaneuf Selected for Cover of EA Sports "NHL 09" - The Biz of Hockey NBC Reports 6.8 Million Viewers for Game 6. Up 111% from 2006 - The Biz of Hockey Papa Replaces Gumbel as NFL Network's Play-by-Play Announcer - The Biz of Football NFL Network May Partner Up With ESPN - The Biz of Football NFL Players Help Hometown Tornado Victims - The Biz of Football Recently Retired Strahan Joins Fox NFL Pregame Show - The Biz of Football Anheuser-Busch to Sponsor New Meadowlands Stadium - The Biz of Football Big Ten Network Nearing First Major Cable Deal with Comcast - The Biz of Football TNT Lands Full Slate of Sponsors For "Wide Open Coverage" Telecasts - Maury Brown's Biz of Sports Maury Brown is the Founder and President of the Business of Sports Network, which includes The Biz of Baseball, The Biz of Football, The Biz of Basketball and The Biz of Hockey. He is contributor to Baseball Prospectus, and is available as a freelance writer.Brown's full bio is here. He looks forward to your comments via email and can be contacted through the Business of Sports Network.

10 Worst MLB Trades in Recent Years

Oakland Athletics — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:44:08 -0500

Today, the Oakland A's traded ace Rich Harden and Chad Gaudin to the Chicago Cubs for four minor leaguers. At first glance, I thought Oakland and Billy Beane got fleeced - c'mon, Billy, you couldn't land Felix Pie? No Josh Vitters? You couldn't hold out until the Rays were forced to overpay to keep the magic going? I mean, as an Angels fan, I think this is great...but still, what gives? But then reason set in - it might seem like Oakland got the short end of the stick, but Beane rarely disappoints. So I guess we need to wait and see how this one pans out. But this got us thinking - what were some of the worst MLB trades in recent years? We've given (most of) these ones time to pan out, and they were flat out awful..........

MLB Power Rankings - July 7 (Here come the Dodgers!)

Tampa Bay Rays — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:37:07 -0500

The Tampa Bay Rays hold on to the top spot in our last power rankings before the All-Star break, followed by the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs, but watch out for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who jumped 7 spots to No. 4, the highest they have been all season. The New York Yankees, on the other hand, drop 6 spots to No. 14. See where your favorite team ranks. To come up with the rankings, using only their statistical performance to date this season, each team is simulated against every other team 100 times. – 50 at home and 50 at the opposing ballpark so that all five pitchers in the current rotation start ten times at each location. After substituting CC Sabathia into the Milwaukee Brewers' rotation, they move up four spots to No. 10, while the Indians take a corresponding hit, dropping five spots to No. 24.

Some thoughts on post-CC Game 1

Cleveland Indians — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:31:37 -0500

First let's start with CC. Five was his big number tonight - 5 hits, 5 walks, 5 Ks and, according STO, 5 standing O's from the Milwaukee faithful. Despite the ten base runners over 6 innings, the big man gave up only two runs and as I write this it appears he will get his first NL win tonight. Let me just wish the Brewers fans good luck with CC. I've always like the team and the city. very Clevelandesque. And they filled in nicely for us as the "hometown" fans in the snows of last April, Here's hoping, for the suffering Milwaukee fans' sake, that CC puts them over the top, although with the Cubs picking up Rich Harden and Chad Gaudin it's going to be that much harder. On to the featherheads. First of all, someone please explain to me why we have to watch David Dellucci for one more second this year. What is the point? I suppose management could hope for a miracle -that he'll add 40 points to his BA between now and July 31 so someone will want him. But really, why is he in there? Which brings us to Andy Marte. Why is he not in there. He needs to play every day at 3B so that the Tribe can answer all doubts before they pull the plug on him. I have no way of knowing who Eric Wedge was referring to in a clip that was shown during the game on STO tonight, but I can take a guess. It followed a comment by Matt Underwood that there will be plenty of opportunity for the youngsters to show what they have over the next 2 1/2 months. STO then played a clip of Wedge saying that won't necessarily be the case for every youngster on the team. "Part of is it what we think they can ultimately be next year and beyond next year. If we don't feel like there's an opportunity for them to be part of a championship club next year and on into the future than I don't see much sense in giving them the opportunity this year." Andy Marte anyone? Can't say for sure, but who else could he be referring to? And if they've already determined Marte will never make it, why is he still on the team? In case you are wondering how Matt Laporta did in his first game with Akron - they got rained out. It's well past my reasonable bedtime. So that will have to hold us for now. Be back tomorrow or sometime soon with some tips on how to watch the post-trade Tribe - if you must.

Pineiro wins, finally

St. Louis Cardinals — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:14:49 -0500

Matched up against the Phillies' Cole Hamels, it seemed Joel Pineiro would be searching for a way to end his pitching drought some other night, but with a little help from the Cards' leading home run hitter and an All-Star, he got just enough help. The bullpen was surprising as well. And the most amazing part: Hamels, with the exception of the two earned runs, probably pitched better than anyone else in the game, on either side. (photo by Barbara Moore)

6 Things That Need To Happen

Cincinnati Reds — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:13:11 -0500

1. Move Sean Henry, Daniel Dorn, and Shaun Cumberland to AAA. If you don't plan on having Dunn next year you need to find out if any of these 3 guys can possibly be a part of the answer. 2. You find a place for Chris Dickerson at the major league level to see what he can offer. Likely involving cutting Corey Patterson loose. 3. Trade every player over the age of 26 on the major league roster besides Jared Burton 4. Call Josh Roenicke up to the major league club after you trade any of your reliever. 5. For the love of god move Junior out of the 3 hole in the line up. 6. Get George Grande off the air. I can't stand him saying brilliant, telling us how great every opposing player is, referring to everyone by their 1st name only unless its Jerry "Hairiston", and I hate that pedo smile he always has.

Tigers Minor League Wrap 7-8-08

Detroit Tigers — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:10:23 -0500

Scranton 2 Toledo 10Michael Hollimon was a homer short of the cycle. Brandon Inge had two singles and a walk, as did Timo Perez and Mike Hessman. Zach Miner pitched 4 innings allowing just 2 hits and 1 walk while fanning 5 and he did it with 60 pitches. Erie 3 Reading 6Wilkin Ramirez [...]SHARETHIS.addEntry({ title: "Tigers Minor League Wrap 7-8-08", url: "http://www.detroittigersweblog.com/2008/07/tigers-minor-league-wrap-7-8-08/" });

Tigers housing rally kitten

Detroit Tigers — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:10:22 -0500

Maybe Matt Joyce found a good luck charm in the Tigers batting cage in the form of a kitten. Tigers outfielder Matt Joyce, hearing the tiny black cat whimper, climbed up on a stool and, with batting gloves on to protect his hands, pulled the animal down, before carrying it up the stairs into the [...]SHARETHIS.addEntry({ title: "Tigers housing rally kitten", url: "http://www.detroittigersweblog.com/2008/07/tigers-housing-rally-kitten/" });

Another Managerial Mistake, Another Loss

Minnesota Twins — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:07:47 -0500

Andrew Kneeland recaps another Twins loss due to managerial errors. Sound familiar?