less hip than bo jackson

the baseball diaries

2009-10-09T16:04:00.000-07:00

ANGLZWN!

What an awesome start to the post-season for the Halos, 5-0 winners over the BoSux; gotta love that. His Lackness was impressive, pitching 7 1/3 shutout innings, and Torii Hunter crushed a fastball to deep center, a 3-run homer! Kendry Morales had a rbi single, scoring Vladdy (and Johnny Rivers on the E by Bay), and Cousin Oliver finished out the game on the mound for the Angels, pitching 1 2/3 scoreless innings.

I love how Vlad can't hit. Bases loaded and he just flails away at pitches WAAAAY out of the zone, yet he's still in the cleanup spot. C'mon Chocha, it's time to put him in the 7th spot.

One thing is sweet though, static, and cooler heads, prevailed as Torii did do anything rash after getting plunked by Ramon Ramirez. What a bunch of classes clowns these BoSux are.

Tonight the game is once again at 6:37 and features Leave it to Weaver vs. Beckett. Yes, that Beckett. The guy who is a total d-bag.

Angels, KICK SOME BEAN TOWN BUTT!!!!!

dil8d halo

the baseball diaries

2008-07-31T11:04:00.000-07:00

Angels sweep the Red Sox at Fenway!!!

Yes, you read it right, the Angels are charging ahead and sweeping teams at will, including the Red Sox in Boston for the first time in, well, a really long time. Simply awesome! The team even picked up some power in the form of Mark Teixeira this week from the the Braves. They gave up Krotch Gobbie, but that OK because Tex's bat brings 20 homers with it and hope fully more!

Not to take anything away from Sit'n Sleep, because he's been en fuego lately, like hitting 2-run homers in back to back nights at Fenway and just picking up his hitting over all.

The pitching has been outstanding of late as well, with His Lackness almost pitching a no hitter, home piece Barry Saunders winning his 14th of the year, and even Magic keeping his era under 4.00.

All this adds up to the Angels carrying the best record in the majors and only 6 losses in their last 24 games! Pretty nice time to be an Angels fan!

Tonight the Angels head to the Yank for four games. Fine by me, the Angels own these guys!

dil8d halo, back from the brink

the baseball diaries

2008-05-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

Good job by Krotch Gobbie last night, driving in 3 runs! Also, outstanding pitching (am I really saying this? Whaaaaa?) from Magic last night and his previous starts. He's actually doing very well. NOW DON'T BLOW IT, MAGIC!!!

Nick Adenhart will make his MLB debut vs. Justin Duchscherer and the gA's. GO ANGELS!!!

dil8d halo

the baseball diaries

2008-04-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

"Some people get up, at the break of day, 'Gotta go to work before it gets to late. Sitting in a car, I'm driving down the road.' It ain't the way it has to be..."

Soooo, the Angels are riding high, coming of back-to-back series wins away to Boston and Detroit. Awesome stuff! Now, back in Anaheim, they face AL West foes, Chokeland. The gA's are enjoying great form of late and will provide stiff competition for the Halos. A sweep of Chokeland would give the Angels their first 4 game win streak of the season. It'll be Garland vs. Gaudin in a battle of g-men, of sorts...

dil8d halo

"But that's what you do to earn your daily wage. That's the kind of world we live in today. But is it where you want to be? And is it what you want to do?" -- New Order

the baseball diaries

2008-04-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

"Don't tell me now, the days I've had, to fill it up but spill instead, talk to remind, days, weeks, and hours..."

Yeesh. After a tumble the first two games versus the M's, the Angels recovered nicely and took one game with them to Texas. Last night though, started off like a nightmare. Magic was up to his old self and gave up 3 runs in the 1st inning, after his peeps gave him a 2 run lead. Static and cooler heads prevailed as Magic settled down and didn't give up any more runs. On the flipside of that, the Angels came through with 3 more in the 2nd and a couple in the 5th to pad the lead a bit. Justin's Pyre gave one back in the 8th, but the 1-2 punch of One-T and Frod were too much for the Tejanos.

The Angels send Suga Shane Mosley to the mound today, hoping to fight off Millwood.

Cheer up folks, it's still only April. All they have to do is focus on winning each series they play.

dil8d halo

"All in time will be, later on we'll try, hollow peaks we've climbed, all those things I've seen, how it feels to be something on." - Sunny Day Real Estate

the baseball diaries

2008-04-03T15:47:00.001-07:00

Get up, stand up! Stand up for your rights!

OK, so maybe Lorii Hunter doesn't like Reggae, but he sure stood up today, helping the Angels take 3 out 4 from the Twinks. He homered in the 7th and Nipples homered right behind him to give the Angels the 5-4 win. Magic somehow only gave up 2 runs on 4 hits in 6 innings. Good, solid pitching, but I'll be convinced when I see this sort of stuff well into, say, 12 starts. Meanwhile, Vladdy went hitless, which sucks, while Mice Hair and GM Juicer added rbi's.

The Angels come back to Anacrime for a 6 game home stand versus Texas and Cleveland.

So what's with this rule that says base coaches can only stand in the "coaches box"? Everyone know that those are there only for show right? I understand that 1st base coach, Mike Coolbaugh, was killed last year, and maybe some things needed to be changed, but I would more likely say, that was a freak incident and confining the base coaches to the box is even MORE dangerous, because that limits their ability to avoid foul balls coming their way. What do you blokes think?

dil8d halo

the baseball diaries

2008-04-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

"There are three things in my life which I really love: God, my family, and baseball. The only problem - once baseball season starts, I change the order around a bit." ~Tony "bag of donuts" Vasile, 1999

Oh, man, was that a rout! Seeking to avenge their opening night loss, the Angels took bats in hand and swung for the fences, literally, defeating the Twins 9-1! Mike "Nipples" Napoli sent a bomb over the right center wall and Krotch Gobbie crushed one into the football press box at the Metrodome. Whose'yer Vladdy went 3-4 with trip ribbies and Sit'n Sleep added 2 more on a 3-5 night. Meanwhile, the $90mm man is still hitless after 2 games.

John Garland was outstanding in his Angels debut as he legged 'em down and smacked 'em, yacked 'em over 8 solid innings. 6 hits but only 1 earned run. Nice! He out dueled Boof Bonser. Enough said.

Tonight we'll see Barry Suanders take the hill vs. Nick Blackburn. Here's to an Angels win and TH's 1st hit as a Halo!

dil8d halo

the baseball diaries

2008-03-31T13:39:00.000-07:00

Shoeless Joe - "The first two were high and tight, so where do you think the next one's gonna be?"
Archie Graham - "Well, either low and away, or in my ear."
"He's not gonna wanna load the bases, so look low and away."
"Right."
"But watch out for in your ear..." -- From Field of Dreams

IT IS BACK BABY!!!!!

Baseball season is here again, oh glorious day! I thought it would never come. Well, maybe the Angels could've used another month or two, seeing how they'll have Lackness and Lambo out until what, mid May?! Sheeeeeeshhh. Well, never fear, they have Weaver to leave it it to, so they should be fine! (Gulp. Sarcasm. I see a loss every fourth game...) My other concern is the Short Stop situation. Cab Fare will be missed, but I hope gAybar and Mice Hair can fill in without too many problems.

Tonight is the Angels season opener, their first game being on the road in Minnesota, as Leave it to Weaver faces Cuba Libre. The line-up should be a familiar one, only with the addition of former Twinkie Torii Hunter. Hunter will be making most of the starts in center as Gary Matthews Juicer will rotate with Sit'n Sleep in left. Vlad retains his spot in right and will no doubt continue to be thrown out trying to get to third on short, rbi singles. This will be tonight's line-up:

Fignuts
G.M. Juicer
Vladdy
Sit'n Sleep
Torii Hunter (yo B, nick name please!)
Krotch Goblin
Kenny Howdrick (was this the nick name?)
MoNapoli
Mice Hair

April 7th is the Quakes home opener and the start of their Monday Madness deal. 2 tix, 2 dogs, 2 sodas, and 2 bags of chips for only $18! Best deal in town as far as I'm concerned.

Play Ball!

dil8d halo

TW Hit List - Al Simmons

2008-02-22T22:04:00.000-08:00

“He had a basketful of fun, a wagonload of fame-

But he never was a rooter at a baseball game.”

Al Simmons was born “Aloysius Szymanski.” Why the name change, I have no idea. However, he made his mark in at least two ways: he was another notoriously unfriendly ballplayer (my favorite kind) and he was possibly the best ugly hitter of all time. By ugly, I don’t mean to speak of his countenance or physicality, but rather his swing. He is famous for allegedly stepping away from the plate toward third base (he was a right-handed batter) as he swung and earned the moniker, “Bucketfoot.” Williams claims that his swing was not as awkward as has been made out by historians. However, many historians base their accounts on contemporary testimony. It was noted by reporters and sportswriters, not to mention ballplayers, of the time that his style was not to be commended. Arthur Daley of the New York Times noted that he should have been easily exposed by curves and outside pitches and yet, not only wasn’t he, but he was one of the top clutch-hitters of his day.

Simmons played for 20 seasons and finished with a .334 career average and .915 OPS. He banged out just shy of 3,000 hits and batted in over 1,800 runs. He hit over .380 four times, led the league in batting and hits twice, and won AL MVP honors in 1929. He had eleven consecutive seasons hitting at least .300 with 100 RBIs. These numbers are huge. Surely he is underrated as great hitters go. When he started, Cobb and Ruth were still around, and Foxx took the limelight through most of his prime years. And little doubt that each of those men were bigger draws for the fans. But Simmons was a superstar in his own right. He won the World Series in 1929 and 1930 with Connie Mack’s Philadelphia A’s and said after his career that Mack was one of the finest men he ever knew.

Williams claims that Simmons and Cobb often criticized him for taking too many pitches. Now many, perhaps most, see such a trait in a batter as the virtue of patience, and we’ve mentioned before that Williams was a strong advocate of the idea that one of the keys to hitting is swinging at good pitches. I don’t know how to argue with that, and so I won’t. Yet, I find something viscerally commendable about those old-style hitters who went up there swinging. Cobb and Simmons and their ilk weren’t swinging at bad pitches, but they didn’t let too many balls an inch or two off the plate go by. Perhaps today’s batters have learned greater patience for which reason we see hitting stats higher than historical averages over the last couple decades. It was only the true greats like a Cobb that could put up numbers swinging at pitches others couldn’t hit (think of Vladimir Guerrero, fellow Halo fans). Or perhaps the game just moves in cycles. Or even more likely, the dynamics of the game between pitchers and hitters change in ways and for reasons that the human mind is not fit to perceive. But don’t be troubled. This is yet another reason for our love of the game. What other game reflects the ultimate reality of the interplay between reason and mystery not just in its overall conception, but as seen in each and every individual contest? Each at-bat is a microcosm of each inning. Each inning is a microcosm of each game. Each game is a microcosm of each season. And so that our beloved pastime unfolds in a cascade of images of what’s ultimate in life, while at once picturing a panorama of life’s rhythms. History is linear. It is going somewhere. But we see patterns. We see variations on a theme even as we progress. And baseball alone of all games is capable of capturing this tense harmony. Baseball alone is sport and art, truth and myth, joy in the midst of despair, wonderment in the midst of certainty. And this is life. It is no cliché that baseball mimics life. It is an apt tribute to the best form of re-creation.

“And though the World pitched,
And the Devil played behind,
And the Seven Deadly Sins were alive,
In the field;"

TW Hit List - Tris Speaker

2008-02-11T21:18:00.000-08:00

Tris Speaker, the “Gray Eagle.” One of my all-time favorites, probably because I have a soft spot for the overlooked aspects of life, and Speaker played in the shadow of Ty Cobb most of his career. But those with an appreciation for the history of the game know Mr. Speaker. He was one of the early true greats, a player who could “do it all,” and was apparently universally admired by his contemporaries. He hit for average, smoked extra-base hits, stole bases, and played one of the best centerfields in history. He was famous for playing extraordinarily shallow. His great speed and greater ability to read the ball off the bat allowed him to be as Ruth called him, a “fifth infielder.” Ruth swore he saw Speaker throw out at man at first base from centerfield on several occasions. He holds the record for unassisted double-plays by an outfielder. This ability to cover his position is more remarkable in a day when centerfield fences were often 450’ or greater from home plate.

But he would have made his name on hitting alone. About the only thing he did not do well was hit home runs, but he played his first several years in the so-called “dead-ball” era and was a natural line-drive hitter. But had he cared, I think he would have hit ‘em out as well. But as Williams points out, he held his bat low to protect the plate. And did he! The Gray Eagle had an eagle-eye. He struck out only 220 times in his career. His 46.4 at-bats per strikeout blow away anyone else for his number of games and at-bats. His concern was average and reaching base and as the song might say, when it came to hitting straight and fast, he was mighty good. Speaker only won one batting title, in 1916, when he hit .386. Most years, he was chasing Ty Cobb. But he hit .350 or better nine times and finished with a career .345 average. He walked often, and put up a .428 on-base percentage. His career OPS of .928 was fantastic for a guy who only hit 117 home runs. But he ripped 222 triples and his 792 doubles still stands as the AL record.

The man did all this as a left-handed hitter. But he was born right-handed. He broke his right arm severely as a teenager getting thrown from a horse. He played left-handed from then on. Yes, played, not just batted. In fact, he was a left-handed pitcher in school after his accident! How do you do that? But then, he hurt his left arm playing football. Doc tells him he’d likely have to amputate, but Speaker says that won’t do. His arm heals and he goes on to a Hall of Fame career batting and throwing with his left arm. So, he pitched and hit with his off-arm, he ran the bases and played maybe the best centerfield ever. But he knew the game too. He was made player-manager of the Indians in 1919, and in 1920 he led them to the World Series championship while hitting .324 in the Series.

Williams mentions that he was the epitome of endurance and of the “aristocracy of baseball.” The first is right, but the second? Is baseball aristocratic? Would “Spoke” himself say so? He told Baseball Magazine that “The American boy starts swinging a bat as soon as he can lift one.” Baseball is the uniquely American pastime and is not limited to some class or other. God gives severally as He will, which is why Spoke also said, “It would be useless for any player to attempt to explain successful batting.” So he didn’t. He just hit the cover off the ball and let his play do the explaining.

After ball, he broadcasted games for awhile and when he was announced into the Hall of Fame in 1937, he was running a wholesale liquor business and was chairman of Cleveland’s Boxing Commission. This guy was an outstanding talent, he had an indomitable will, he knew and respected the game, and he was a man of varied interests who served society productively after his playing days. Again, one of my favorites from the past. No aristocrat, he earns his reputation as one of the elite in the history of the sport.

TW Hit List - Mickey Mantle

2008-01-29T21:23:00.000-08:00

Williams admits to not expecting much from Mantle when he first saw him come up to the bigs. He took big swings and missed a lot. In fact, he says Casey Stengel benched him for parts of his rookie year to prevent him from setting a record for strikeouts. But Mantle matured and developed. And while always having a big swing and striking out often, he became one of the greatest and most popular sluggers in the history of the game.

Mantle played his whole career with the Yankees. So a shy boy from Oklahoma with a reputation for humility was given the biggest stage in baseball to display his talents. It is well known that Mantle’s career was injury-plagued. It is well known that he often played through considerable pain. And yet that he played and put up such big numbers cemented his popularity. He won three MVP awards, including in 1956 when he won the Triple Crown, and led the AL in home runs and slugging percentage four times. He finished with 536 home runs, a .298 batting average and a .979 OPS. Williams makes the point that he was much more the free swinger than the others we’ve discussed so far, except for Mays. Both Mays and Mantle swung hard and missed a lot, which Williams claims as reason for their lower respective batting averages. Williams says, “Mickey hardly knew what protecting the plate was. . . .He didn’t know you that you had to hit certain pitchers a little differently than you did certain other pitchers. . . [Mays and Mantle] continued to swing for the fences regardless of the count.” I don’t disagree with him, but to be fair to Mantle, his average was subpar for his last four seasons which were likely his most painful ones.

Still, Mantle was doubtless a great hitting talent with famous power. We had mentioned that Jimmie Foxx had that distinctive “bomb” sound when he hit one. Williams says Mantle had it too. “It was so distinctive that a blind man could pick out a Foxx or Mantle home run.” We forget that Mantle also had great natural speed and was a rare combination of speed and power for his day (BBB). In addition, Mantle was a switch-hitter and surely the greatest in the game’s history when he retired. Yet Williams is careless when he says, “Mantle was the greatest switch-hitter this game will ever see.” Either I am misunderstanding Williams or I would have done very well to glean stock tips from him before his death. Even careful baseball observers like Williams make mistakes when they presume to foretell history’s end. Greatest ever seen? That’s it? Pack it up? Is baseball closing shop? Is switch-hitting going to be prohibited? Has God decreed? But there is more. “One of the greatest records anyone will ever have and one that will never be beaten is his 18 home runs in the World Series.” His record is surely impressive and he may be the greatest World Series hitter ever (he also leads all-time in RBI’s, runs, total bases, and bases on balls), but it is taking nothing from Mantle to deny him a monopoly on the future. Given enough time, someone on some team may yet come along that challenges these records, and the future is a notoriously long time.

But such abandon does serve to declare Mantle’s justly esteemed position as one of baseball’s all-time greats. He went about to hit the ball as hard as he could every time at the plate. Who could not respect this? I don’t care what the statheads may or may not say. The game is for the fans. And Mantle was the kind of player the fans come to see. “If I had played my career hitting singles like Pete [Rose], I’d wear a dress.”

TW Hit List - Hank Greenberg

2008-01-25T19:05:00.000-08:00

What does “TW” stand for? And what is its Hit List? I’ve come so close to forgetting myself, but just in time, I’ve posted again. Yes, blogging is back! No excuses, no explanations. We’re just going to pick up and blog on!

And so, “Hammerin’ Hank” Greenberg. Mr. Greenberg was a big man for his age (that’s Baseball Before BALCO, henceforth referred to as, “BBB”; DAWN, call your offices.) But he was more than brawn. Williams credits him with being one of the smartest ballplayers of BBB. He certainly was one of its best hitters. Greenberg hit over 300 home runs, batted in over 1,200 runs and scored over a thousand, while batting .313 over his career. He finished with a 1.017 OPS. These are certainly top-tier numbers worthy of Hall-of-Fame entry, however, what is remarkable is his unfortunate loss of four seasons to WWII (he voluntarily enlisted). He undoubtedly would have had monster numbers if not for this. He is not the household name most of our previous “Hit List” entries are, but in his day, his fellow ballplayers all knew that he was one of the premier hitters in the game.

He led the AL in home runs five times, batted over .300 nine times, led the league in RBIs four times and hit well over .300 in his four World Series appearances. He was AL MVP twice, becoming the first player to win the award at two different positions (1B and OF). I was impressed by the fact that he played as a right-hander just about his whole career as a Detroit Tiger where Briggs Stadium would be home. During the age of BBB, leftfield at Briggs Stadium was never less than 347’ and some years was 360’. Not too many cheap clouts at home.

Williams offers us his usual personal remarks of varying quality and helpfulness. About Greenberg, he mentions, “He spoke in general terms and didn’t divulge too much. I thought Greenberg was a great guy.” Great is a good English word too often loosely used. Now, Greenberg did want to be remembered as a great ballplayer, if not a “great guy.” He is also well-known for downplaying his Jewishness at first, but then coming to embrace it, even though he conceded that he was not “a particularly religious person.” He created some buzz by refusing to play on Yom Kippur in the middle of the 1934 pennant race. This was after he threatened the same concerning Rosh Hashanah, only to relent after too much grumbling, “Rosh Hashanah comes every year, but the Tigers haven’t won the pennant since 1909.” The Tigers did win the pennant, but went on to lose a classic World Series to the Cardinals in seven games.

“Class tells. It sticks out all over Mr. Greenberg.”

the baseball diaries

2007-11-01T13:07:00.000-07:00

"Passing by,

the sea of light,

like a stream, like a breeze,

there's your voice inside my head..."

So, these blokes won the World Series. How could this happen? I'll tell you how, they're opponents walked out after they won the NLCS and just sent a bunch of cardboard cutouts to the World Series. How else do you account for barely over zero runs scored by the Rockies and all the runs they allowed. Oh well, at least it's out of the way and over. I'm tired of seeing that queer Papelbon dance like a fool everywhere.

A more pressing issue is how are the Angels actually going to move on in the quest to get bigger bats this off season. They have a new GM but many have pointed out that this guy is close facsimile to the bloke that left. Will the tradition of deal making mediocrity continue? Obviously that remains to be seen, but if you tell me things are looking bright for the Angels in acquiring needed personnel, I'll tell you get real because the new GM is as much in love with all our minor leaguers as (I'm with) Stoneman was!

I'm taking a meaningless poll to gauge the desire for Angels fans to get gA-Rod. I'll start the poll with one under the yes column, I would accept his presence on our team. Now what does the citizenry say?

A(ngels)-Rod?

YES NO

dil8d halo

"And in between,

the pleasure increases.

I know I'll never get back!" -- Camouflage

the baseball diaries

2007-10-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

Well, that was short, but pointless.

Two words sum up the Angels 2007 ALDS loss: NO STICK!

There's always next year.

dil8d halo

Game 1 ramblings

2007-10-04T07:40:00.000-07:00

Well, Game 1 is done and in the books and it wasn't pretty. Josh Beckett humiliated our batters for nine innings and reassured all of us that our ineptitude at Fenway Park was no aberration, but would continue. Lackey looked Ramon Ortiz-esque for the first few innings, the bats were limp the entire game, and there is really nothing good to take from this game. My hatred for all things Red Sox only grows, but I fear they will once again have the last laugh. Could there be an more undeserving bunch of blowhards, low-lifes and arrogant bludgers than Boston fans?

On Friday, Lambo the Great takes the mound for the Halos. I don't think he will publicly urinate like Lack-less, but I am also not sure which Escobar will show up. The one who dominated for much of the season, or the one who struggled his last several starts before the playoffs? Matsuzaka will go for Boston, so will Scioscia give another bat a chance in Game 2? It is clear we need something. The broadcasters mentioned during the game last night that Coach S. will need to add some more pop to the lineup in the next game and to be fair, he doesn't have a lot of options. But he does have Morales and Rivera. With his experience and the short leftfield, I think he ought to put Rivera in there. In any case though, we know that Scioscia will only do what is best, so I have no worries.

How 'bout them Rockies?!

2007-10-01T22:17:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching the Rockies game against San Diego. What a game! After the zany finish they have had, and the way the Padres have fallen apart, I was glad to see the Rockies pull it out. And in what grand fashion! I am also happy to see those good-hearted Denver fans filled with sincere excitement over their team. What a contrast to Padre fans. Boring fans for a boring team. A bunch of lousy fairweather fans and I say you get what you deserve. We all know the Padres would have just lain down in the playoffs, so this saves all of us baseball fans a worthless NLDS. Phillies-Rockies should be good.

I'm especially reminded that baseball is the best of all team sports. I enjoy soccer, football, and I've even been following the Rugby World Cup(!), but after all, there is nothing to match the tension and drama of a close baseball game. It's simply the best.

What's Say We Actually Beat Boston This Time?

2007-10-01T21:58:00.000-07:00

I'm really getting tired of everything Boston. Papi, Manny, Papelbon, Youkilis, Coco, Tito, Bird, Belichick, Beckett, Henry, Luis Alicea, etc. Haha, actually, I have a soft spot for Alicea.

But seriously, how about we go to Boston on Wednesday and not crap our pants? How about we attack the Green Monster instead of being afraid of it? How about running on Varitek? How about punching every Angels reliever in the face to wake them up?

More Johnny Rivers, less Reggie and the Full Effect. More Just Inspire, less Doug E. Fresh.

And more importantly, more wins, less losses.

Go Angels, dangit!

Couldn't Have Happened to a Bigger Idiot

2007-10-01T21:41:00.001-07:00

From Rotoworld and ESPN...

Scott Schoeneweis received six steroid shipments from Signature Pharmacy while playing for the White Sox in 2003 and 2004, ESPN is reporting.

Just keep kicking the Mets while they're down. The source who reviewed the invoices said that Schoeneweis spent $1,160 on the steroids. He received five packages from May 2003 through 2004, five of which contained testosterone and three of which contained stanozolol. Schoeneweis just finished the first year of his three-year, $10.8 million contract with the Mets. He had a 5.03 ERA in 59 innings.

the baseball diaries

2007-09-28T11:07:00.000-07:00

WAKE UP CALL!!!

The Angels are heading to Chokeland, ready to finish this AL West winning season! YEAH!

But wait, don't get too excited, they just got swept by lowly Texas receiving their worst road loss of the season on Tuesday, 16-2! What the heck is this? Can we have an ounce of momentum entering into the post season please? Sheesh...

And yet, THEY WON THE WEST!!!!

I hope the face NY so they can bounce the Yank from yet another post-season.

Let's hope for a sweep of Chokeland to carry some hope and good fortune into October.

GO ANGELS!!!

Football Picks!

2007-09-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

2-0 BABY!!!!

Too bad my picks weren't as lucky as the 49ers last week. I went 10-6 and at the risk of eating my favorite food, crow, and furthering my foot-in-mouth disease, I will make more picks. Be ready to laugh...

Ravens def. Tards

Donkeys def. Jags

Colts def. Texans

Cheaters (never prosper) but they def. the Bills

Browns def. Raiders

Packers def. Bolts

Bucs def. Lambs (Two words for ya: Jeff Garcia!)

Eagles def. Lions

Redskins def. Gnats

Panthers def. Falcons

da Bears def. da 'Boys

J.E.T.S. def. Dolphins

Titans def. Aints

Chefs def. Vikes

Dang 'ol Bengals def. ChickenHawks

And my upset of the week, yup, you guessed it:

49ers def. Steelers!!

Oh the humanity...

Gotta Love It!

2007-09-20T14:18:00.000-07:00

This was easily my favorite Browns moment since their return to the NFL. I hate Chad Johnson.

the baseball diaries

2007-09-20T13:24:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for some...

BASEBALL!!!!??

Whoa, this is pretty awesome. The Angels are waaay ahead of the Portside Patsies, poised to win the West. With a magic number of just 3, they also share the best record in all of baseball with the Tribe.

After sweeping the Drays on some awesome pitching efforts from His Lackness and dare I say, Magic, the Angels Host Seattle on a four game stint. These are the reported pitching matchups:

Leave it to Weaver vs. Feierabendover, tonight
Barry Suanders vs. Boingo, tomorrow night
Lambo vs. Batistuta, Saturday
His Lackness vs. His Hair Weave, Sunday

Check out these blokes:

Johnny Rivers is back with a vengeance, having already hit 2 homers! Fignuts seems to be hitting everything that comes his way, and we've all documented Sit' N Sleep's wake up about a month ago. Sheesh, I say it's about time! I wait for the playoffs with abated breath.

dil8d halo

Football Picks!!!

2007-09-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

I know I'm starting a week late, but I was in Mexico last week and forgot to post my opening picks. Oh well, read 'em and weep.

Ravens def. J.E.T.S

da Bears def. Chefs

Bengals def. Browns (sorry W&E, I don't see an upset here, even at home for the Browns)

Cowgirls def. Fins

Donkeys def. Raiders (handily)

Colts def. Titans

Jags def. Falcons

Bolts def. Cheaters

Philly def. Redskins

Steelers def. Bills

Pack def. Gnats

Panthers def. Texans

Lions def. Vikes

Aints def. Bucs

SeaGulls def. Cards

And my Pick-o-the Week:

49ers def. Lambs!!

Mmmmm, I smell brats'n beer...

Cleveland, Colts, & Complaining

2007-09-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

"Et quand personne ne me lira, ay-je perdu mon temps, de m'estre entretenu tant d'heures oisives, à pensements si utiles et aggreables?" – Montaigne (See Ch. XVIII, where he begins, “And though nobody should read me, . . .”)

First the Mariners came to town as the hottest team in baseball and we swept them. Now the Tribe comes rolling in as the hottest team in baseball and game one is in the books after a convincing victory by the Halos, 10-3. Fellas, our team is good. They’ve had their issues here and there, but they are competing to finish the season with the best record in all of baseball. And what do we do? Again we sit idle, twiddling with thoughts in our own heads while the world awaits. Or does it? And should we care? If the King of Sweden can’t motivate, than what else? Ah, but let’s just enjoy ourselves then, shall we?

Well, it’s like this. The Angels are eight games over Seattle, the best margin for any division leader. They play most of the remaining games at home, where they sport the best home record in the Majors this season. They have arguably the most consistent rotation of any team, are fielding well this season and are now displaying timely hitting and even power. S&S has been unknown for the past two weeks. Okay, he still fields skittishly, but may we complain during this display of production at the plate? Last night’s game was his eleventh consecutive with an RBI, setting the club record. They are a strong, balanced team and a legitimate contender for the pennant.

Meanwhile, the NFL season got underway with a boring game. Defending Indy walked past the Saints at home, but I was busy watching DC United concede a two goal lead over Chivas USA and settle for a 2-2 draw. Chivas’ first goal was a tall tale. Perkins tried to clear with Razov coming on, and had his kick deflect off Razov straight to his own goal! I hope this setback does not reverse United’s fortunes after a perfect August.

Connie Mack-attack, etc.

2007-08-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

What a laugher. Once upon a time, when baseball was better and America was stronger, men wore suits. Even big-league managers. There is something truly amiss when basketball coaches play the man better than baseball managers. Basketball is a hectic and flippant sport; the coaches ought to wear warm-up suits to the game. Baseball is dignified and conservative. Yet, it’s baseball that has traditionally seen its skippers pal around with their own players by wearing the same clothes they do, only some of them look half-ridiculous. (Tommy Lasorda?)

As a self-professed baseball “purist,” I suppose I should honor the tradition of my betters. However, I cannot help but be impressed by the image of a tall slender Connie Mack showing up the country in his well-pinched attire. How would it strike us to see the “Tall Tactician” roaming today’s dugouts? I say Francona should thumb his nose at MLB and emulate one of the early heroes of the game.

Also, Mr. Smith has more on Santana. As usual, he mixes solid points with an uppity style. It makes for annoying reading. There’s no way out. What did the conniver say? “If you give me six sentences written by the most innocent of men, I will find something in them with which to hang him." Whatever Santana does now, we will find something with which to malign him. Right? That’s it, right Stephen? Whenever Stoneman, Scioscia, Santana, Stalin, etc. get it right, it’s proof of purchase. But when they oops it, there must possibly be some other factor, some context, some brain dysfunction on the part of the critic to explain the situation. Life cuts both ways. Asking for performance in the midst of a pennant race (do we still have those in these days of the “wild card”?) is not necessarily illustrative of a quest for “instant gratification.” Rather, it’s acknowledgment that life is short, unforgiving, and fleeting and if we are spending any time at all spilling emotion over a boy’s game, we dare not wait too long.

Our own W&E chimed in on Smith's post concerning former outfielder turned reliever Warner Madrigal.

the baseball diaries

2007-08-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

Critics to Ervin Santana: YOU SUCK!!!

Let's break down this debacle: 2 walks, 4 hits, 5 earned runs, 1 out recorded, before the string was pulled on this chump.

Thankfully we have Suga'Shane Moseley, ready and more than willing to take this spot in the rotation. As for Santana, if he sees anything other than garbage time action I will be thoroughly upset. He has shown that he loses his head at the slightest sign of trouble and is a Ramon Ortiz proselyte.

Moseley pitched with surety, accuracy, and skill, to put down all batters in his 5 1/3 innings. The Angels bats were restored with this pick up and fought hard to tie the game. They got one in the 3rd off Hoagie's error, two back in the 4th as Gary Matthews Juiced a homer followed by Morales' golf-shot homer. The comeback continued with Cab Fare's rbi single, scoring Mathis, and G to the Iz-A's sac fly that scored Cabbie. Did you see the look on Jeff Weaver's face as he was taken out of the game? Classic. The Mariners deserve him.

In the 7th the Angels took the lead when Vlad doubled in Mathis (he had a good night at 2 for 3, 2 runs, and a walk) but gave it back on Ichiro's rbi single.

The Angels won it on the Cuban's double to score GM Juicer and Vlad stroking a single, driving in More-Alice and Reggie and the Full Effect. Mice Hair had a nice hit also, which drove in Cab Fare, but on the same hit, Vlad was meat at the plate. Angels win 10-6 in awesome come back fashion!

Yo Stephen Smith, are you still in love with Santana? I bet you are...

Today at 1:35 pm, Weave it to Beaver faces Felix "El Gato" Hernandez in what should prove to be an awesome match up. Will the Angels sweep 'em in Seattle? Well, I for one can't wait to find out!

dil8d halo

the baseball diaries

2007-08-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

His Lackness was awesome last night!!!

His second complete game shutout vs. the Mariners.

dil8d halo

the baseball diaries

2007-08-22T09:25:00.001-07:00

Give this man a standing O!!!

For as much crap as we give Sit'n Sleep, he really came through last night. 10 rbi's vs the Yank! Wow! That's an Angels record for most rbi's in a game besides the fact that the Angels scored 18 runs, the most ever vs NY. That was truly amazing. Lambo pitched well, though the five runs given up was not good. I think that should have been called an error on Gary Matthews Juicer though. Kenny Howdrick also lit it up with an rbi and 3 runs scored as did Mice Hair scoring 4 times from 3 hits and a walk. I'm impressed and frankly shocked that the Angels put such a beat down on anything the Yank threw at them, literally.

dil8d halo

the baseball diaries

2007-08-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

"My life's deteriorating at a quarter to eight, because i wrote myself a letter and I mailed it too late..."

10-4 GOOD BUDDE!!!

How awesome was that?! Ryan Budde, a bloke we used to watch at Rancho just two years ago, get his first Major League rbi as a walk-off winner vs. the Yank! Incredible. It was a rough game however, with the Angels taking a 3-1 lead in the 2nd. They gave it away unfortunately with Posada's 4th inning rbi ground out and gA-Rod's 6th inning two-run shot. The Angels fought back in 7th to regain the lead on some clever hitting by Kenny Howdrick, Reggie and the full effect, Fignuts, and Cab Fare. Which was given right back in the next frame as Justin's Pyre was looming large. Knotted up at 6-6 in the 10th, Ryan Budde cranked a double to right-center with one out and Howdrick crossed the plate to win it!!

It's official: Cousin Oliver is the Angels best reliever. Scary stuff.

Most of this game took place as I was on the phone (while behind the wheel and then on my couch) with my brother Ted. He is a Yank fan who lives in New Jersey. I was impressed at his knowledge of Angel-ball (style and tactics), how he knew what the Angels would do to try to win the game. I think since the Angels have owned the Yank from the beginning of the Torre era, and especially after the 2002 playoff upset, many NY fear and loath the Angels, but can't help trying to figure them out. Fruitlessly. He also said A-Rod lacks character and looks like he wears pink lip gloss in most interviews. I agree.

Tonight the fight continues with this awesome battle: Lambo vs. Mussina. One for the ages!

dil8d halo

"I got a knock on the door, I got a nail on the floor, I got a nail in my head, but it don't hurt me no more." -- Electronic

the baseball diaries

2007-08-15T13:26:00.000-07:00

"There is a wind, that blows in the northern sky, holdin’ me back, no matter how hard I try..."

These have been some crazy days!!

After sweeping the twinkies, the Angels went to Canada for visit to the Blue Jays. Well, unfortunately, they ran into some great pitching from Roy Halladay and made some ugly fielding mistakes that contributed to their 4-1 loss. After scoring in the 1st, Barry Saunders did his best to keep the Angels in it, but errors by Gaybar and Mathis lead to runs that could not be overcome. Well, at least tonight we'll see Suga'Shane vs. Marcum and hopefully a win, to continue the Angels "hotness" of late.

Let's face it, the Angels are playing some exciting baseball right now but have a tough stretch ahead. Two more games (including tonight's) in Canada, then three at Fenway, back home for three with the Yank, three with Toronto, and three with Seattle. No days off. This can define the rest of the season and shape their playoff picture if they don't crumble. Tense but worth the excitement!!!

dil8d halo

"If I had the sense, I'd leave here tomorrow. I wouldn't even bother To say goodbye." -- Electronic

Future Cranks?

2007-08-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

I must say that http://www.futureangels.com/ is a splendid website and the man who runs the website, Stephen Smith, is to be thanked and commended for the very fine service he provides all Angels fans with his devoted and comprehensive coverage of the Angels’ minor league farm system. In addition to his hard work, he provides his website free of charge and demonstrates a solid knowledge of baseball and baseball history, especially as concerns the Halos.

And he is quite right that there are those fans who cannot refrain from criticizing Angels’ management for every little thing, even in the midst of the best run the franchise has had in its history. He points out, rightly, that many raise loud protests who cannot possibly know all the details of front office tactics and behind-the-scenes goings-on. In particular, Scioscia and Stoneman frequently come in for harsh criticism from many fans who quite possibly do not know what they are talking about. However, there are those who do know what they are talking about, and in any case, I think Smith might swing too far the other way. He doesn’t seem to be able to brook any criticism at all, and shows a rather testy and defensive tone at times. I sometimes get the impression from reading his blog, that so far from not deserving much of the criticism received, someone like Stoneman actually doesn’t err at all.

Smith decided to stoop and resort to name-calling recently. Overwhelming his detractors by well-placed Wikipedia citations, he has blanketed all comers with the heady title of, “Crank.” I exercised my liberty of commenting on his blog. I might comment again and may even give the link to this post in my comments. Yes, perhaps we can attract some readers?

My comment had referred to his misspelling of ad nauseam. It was surely a petty criticism, but so is labeling those whom you do not know cranks for simply failing to agree with you all of the time:

Mr. Smith:

Your website is wonderful and helpful. Please accept my sincere thanks for a well-constructed and very informative effort. I do want to say that you may be unfairly labeling those who see things differently than you. You have in fact resorted to petty name-calling and in this spirit, I must not resist from pointing out that you betray your own lack of learning by your utterly predictable misspelling of ad nauseam. Please be more careful about telling others that they “can not be turned,” lest you forget about the beam in your own eye. Again, many thanks for a stellar website.

JD

http://futureangels.mlblogs.com/futureangels/2007/08/cranks_and_kran.html

the baseball diaries

2007-08-08T08:41:00.000-07:00

I certainly hope that yesterday was not the day that baseball died...

On a happier note, this man was awesome last night:

I mean, he not only belted his 14th homer, but made a spectacular catch, running back and leaping high over the center field wall to rob Coco Crispies of a homer. Strong defense and some awesome offence backed up by solid pitching from Barry Saunders lead the Angels to a 10-4 rout of the Red Sux. Monday night, the Angels got clutch hitting from Mice Hair to win that contest 4-2 on yet another great outing from Weave it to Beaver.

This is awesome to see because the Angels usually crumble vs. Boston. Tonight is the series finale with Suga'Shane Moseley facing a Jester, or something...

Meet me at the Regal Beagle...

dil8d halo

Thoughts on the Mega-Rich and not so Mega-Rich

2007-08-06T12:55:00.000-07:00

A friend who is a former co-worker and who now works for PIMCO, sends me Mr. Bill Gross’ Investment Outlook column each month when it is published, for which I am grateful. Gross is not only a brilliant money manager, but a very good and evidently well-read writer. My friend sent me August’s column called, “Enough is Enough” last week. I frequently email him back my fragmented and poorly developed thoughts and we might even have a short e-discussion about it, if he’s in a polite enough mood to hear me out. My email message to him (slightly edited) follows:

I just read this. I’m not sure what to make of this one. Is he serious when he is arguing for higher taxes through the lips of ex-CEO Bob Crandall? Or was he just using that quote to set up a tidy rhetorical finish? If Gross is truly suggesting we ought to raise taxes on the “mega-rich” in order to equalize incomes, I must disagree. Maybe he’s not saying that?

I do agree that these folks he speaks of are greedy and even wasteful with their money, but Gross does not provide the answer to his own question: when is enough, enough? So, I’m led to think that we ought to just bear up and take care of our own and not worry about the “rich.” Besides, it becomes more difficult to make out when I remember that Gross is one among the rich that according to Fitzgerald “are different from you and me.” So whose perspective is he pretending to take?

But then, his article seems to imply near the end that the market itself is taking steps to draw in the excesses. Whatever the case, no matter how absurd the market gets, and it gets pretty absurd, I still say it’s got nothing on the government. Leave them out!

So, why am I posting this here? Well, besides the fact that nobody else is posting, and if they were, nobody else is reading this anyway, FED Chairman Ben Bernanke is a big baseball fan and in recalling this salient fact, Gross’ colleague, Andrew Balls, reminds us in his article for the The Times of London that Bernanke might need to embrace Lefty Gomez’ dictum that “I would rather be lucky than good.” If the “truly rich” were good, would Gross argue that they should undergo greater oppression at the hands of the State? Because of course, many of the folks in our modern economy who we are tempted to suggest are over-compensated for their contributions to society are simply “lucky” as the term is used in today’s parlance, including many of the very art-buying, yacht-selling other-people’s-money mangers that Gross has an eye toward in his article.

Now, Gross is grossly rich himself, and it would be impossible to know his motivation in any case, but I might suggest that much of our hand-wringing over the supposed “mega-rich” who might possibly have more than enough, however that is determined, stems from society’s perception that many of these folks are just lucky, and that’s just not fair. It would at least help to explain why many are so caught up on equality for equality’s sake. And so envy rears its ugly head and we feel as if we must make good on the perceived inequity. If these are rich, it is by happy accident. And since the State does society’s perceiving for it, the specter of increasing already progressive tax rates becomes the second head. The mega-rich don’t see it this way (what of Gross?). They are good at what they do. They have played by the rules, risked other people’s money and created wealth by sheer skill and reason. If they are rich, it is their reward. And so a third head of unthinking arrogance.

Who is guilty of the greater folly here? Who is more to blame for creating the monster? If some say it is luck, others say it is self-determination. The saying goes, “Give a man luck and throw him into the sea,” but of course, we know luck has nothing to do with it. God Himself sent Jonah’s whale, and if some are rich while others less rich or even poor, it is God Who sets them in their place. This doesn’t deny the secondary means which God uses to His purposes. Rather, it illustrates that some men’s greed and other men’s envy are rooted in the same denial of Divine Providence. Men will not believe. And the man who does not must either count his neighbor a fool or a fraud for being poorer or richer than he.

The work is done but the spirit remains

2007-08-06T12:36:00.000-07:00

Just as much as Wales has returned to Green again, so have I returned to blogging again. How long could it last? I may be a simple cog in the wheel of Progress spoken for by 21st century corporatist America, but I will not be held completely silent. In the quiet corner where God has placed me, I resume my cries.

TW Hit List - Willie Mays

2007-08-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

"They throw the ball, I hit it. They hit the ball, I catch it." – Willie Mays

As Mr. Bonds chases his record-tying 755th home run (he’s stuck at 754 as of this writing), his Godfather, Willie Mays, checks in as our latest Hit List entry. Williams professes that it was a virtual toss-up for who should come next on the Hit List, Mays or Aaron. Their career numbers are close enough to be the same, excepting Mays’ stolen bases. Williams mentions that Mays had an electric effect on the game that Aaron may have lacked. He quips, “Aaron had a flair for consistency, while Mays had a consistent flair.” Mays certainly seemed to have the flair for the dramatic. He frequently came up big in the Fall Classic and he owned the All-Star Game. He almost invented the basket catch, or at least single-handedly brought it into prominence.

Concerning the numbers, it is true that Mays and Aaron are difficult to distinguish. What makes Aaron obviously stand out is his significantly higher totals for RBIs, runs and home-runs. However, when adjusted for at-bats, there is almost no difference, and in fact, Mays finished with an OPS of .944, beating Aaron’s .932. As it was, Mays finished with 660 HR’s, 1,903 RBIs, and a .302 batting average. He was MVP twice, led the league in OPS five times, and was named The Sporting News Player of the Decade for the 1960’s. Like Angels fans’ beloved Vladimir Guerrero, he was a hard, free swinger who would flail away at some very bad pitches, but then who produced hits on pitches few else could make contact with. Besides his hitting, he won eleven consecutive Gold Gloves. He is well-known for his famous “Catch”, but sportswriter Arnold Hano said this about the throw the followed, “But the throw! What an astonishing throw to make all other throws ever before it, even the four Mays himself had made during fielding practice, appear the flings of teenage girls. This was the throw of a giant, the throw of a howitzer made human."

The game is for the fans, and Mays put on the show. Williams suggests he was the Michael Jordan of 1950’s and 1960’s baseball. So, perhaps Mays should be accorded higher honors than Aaron. However, Aaron was a model of consistency and is not one of baseball’s enduring virtues its nature to reward those few who separate themselves from the rest by meeting this great game’s daily demands with extraordinary excellence? I suppose baseball again mirrors life. People are different and there is room in this world for differences in opinion and taste, within reasonable limits. Within a framework of accepted decency, we can appreciate the artist and the businessman. So it is with our great game. While Aaron modeled sustained excellence, Mays played with “controlled abandon”, and they loved him for it.

One of the more noted baseball announcer lines originated in reference to Willie Mays. Hall of Fame sportswriter Bob Stevens described a triple hit by Mays in the 1959 Midsummer Classic by saying, “The only man who could have caught that ball, hit it.”

"No record book reflects this kind of concentration, determination, perseverance or ability. As a player, Willie Mays could never be captured by mere statistics."--Harry Jupiter

the baseball diaries in game report

2007-08-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

BREAKING NEWS!!!!

Vlad Guerrero has broken his home run slump by cranking two shots off French Canadian Chad Gaudin!!
Ok, I know, he's not French Canadian, but if you must pronounce a name that looks like "GOW-DIN" as "GOH-DAN" I say he's French Canadian.

As of the bottom of the 6th, it's 4-2 Angels!

How about this new nickname for Sit'N Sleep: Ghost Dog.
To give this context, Hud says that Chili Davis gave him the name "Young Dog" when GA came up, but Alex said, "Yeah, more like Ghost Dog because you can't tell if he's there..."

Go Halos!!

dil8d halo

the baseball diaries

2007-08-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

"Took a plane across the world, got in a car.
When I reached my destination, I hadn't gone far..."

And you all thought I went away, tail tucked between my legs. HA! It takes more than a massive slump to keep me from this. An act of God perhaps, but slumps be damned!

Yes, we all know that the Angels enjoyed an awesome June then ran headlong into a drag of a July. They went 12-12, barely salvaging a .500 record by sweeping le Tigre (scoring double digits in each game!) and splitting the first two games in Seattle to close out the month. Over the last six games though, the Angels have showed some major pop(!) not to mention some awesome pitching in Escobar and Lackness. 20 game winners both? I certainly hope so!!

In last night's game Gary Matthews Juicer responded to rants and, temporarily, quieted the critics as he blasted two homers, doubled twice, and logged 3 ribeyes. Mice Hair and Cab Fare also homered in a game that saw His Lackness shut down Seattle's offense in a complete game shutout! Angels won 8-0!!!!

Tonight should be another thriller as Weave it to Beaver faces Felix Hernandez.

As we embark on a new month, the dog days of summer if you will, I have confidence in the Angels finding their way through stretches of games that will bring tough opposition and seeing themselves through into the playoffs. I won't have it any other way.

"...pull it all down and start again, from the top to the bottom and then,

I'll have faith or, I prefer, to think that things couldn't turn out worse..." -- Depeche Mode

I once blogged a dream

2007-07-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

And now it’s gone? Blocked from accessing my favourite sites, including this one, at work, my grand plan of keeping the site fresh is crumbling quickly. Something must be done. And what has happened to the friends that I once knew? Who would have thought that blogging would be such hard work?! Years from now, when this blog is taking its millions of hits per day and has become one of the most trusted portals on the web, we will look back and smile. But we must get there.

Ah, but since life gets in the way, let another do our work for us. An interesting piece by Verducci from SI concerning our Angels.

If you blog it, they will lose. . .

2007-06-27T16:47:00.000-07:00

After winning nine consecutive series, the lowly Royals come to town and sweep the Angels. The Royals have now won their last five games against the Cherubs. As if this is not enough, someone told me that the women are better-looking in Kansas City also. While I collect my thoughts, consider this remarkable turn of events: Che wants to be traded. Yeah, we want him to be traded, but who will have him?

Considering my recent and sudden excitement, I have been humbled. I try to look up for once and shed my cynicism, and just when I do, the Halos teach me my annual lesson. I will return to heckling Sosha and crew from behing the computer screen, which is more fun anyway.

On the lighter side, Percival has completed his comeback. From Rotoworld:

The Cardinals purchased the contract of RHP Troy Percival from Triple-A Memphis. Percival allowed one run -- that coming in his first appearance -- over 6 2/3 innings for Memphis, enabling him to complete his comeback and return to the majors. The Cards will use him in middle relief for now, but he'll be put into a setup role if he's successful.

I will try to post a "Hit List" tomorrow.

Drive-by blogging

2007-06-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

It may very well be that the Angels do not lose another game this season. Okay, at least not another loss at home. Certainly, it feels like the Angels can't lose lately. Another sweep for the Halos as they discard the Pirates in three straight. The Pirates took them into extra innings twice, but was there anyone who really felt as if the Angels were in serious jeopardy of losing either game? Even down 4-0 on Friday night, it was expected they would fight their way back. After coming back and winning 5-4, they embarrassed the Bucs yesterday 10-1 before finishing them 4-3 today. They are simply having a tremendous first half. They won't likely play quite as well after the break, and Sosha will find a way to slow them down (he tried hard today), but it's fun right now.

All congratulations to U.S. soccer for winning their fourth Gold Cup title today by defeating Mexico 2-1 in the Finals held in Chicago. The U.S. owns Mexico since 2000, but had not beat them in the final before today. Bravo! The Mexicans play dirty, and yet still can't beat the U.S. American soccer is on the rise.

Riverside Rangers go for victory #1 under the lights tomorrow night. The match is not sold out, so it will be blacked out on local TV coverage. Why not come out to watch in person? The players are approachable and autographs are easy to come by.

Sosa hits 600th. Hilton still in jail.

2007-06-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

In other news, Vladimir Guerrero is good. Yes, it’s funny the way things work out at times. But it appears he’s worth the money. Who knew? I wish the same could be said for Piñada Colon. I swear I can smell his breath when I watch him on TV. He stinks.

Angels win yet again last night fueled by some Houston mistakes along with Vlad’s monster home run that capped a six-run seventh inning. Congratulations to Terry Evans for his first major league hit, a two-run clout to left. The Angels have found yet another bat more productive than Anderson’s.

Fellow bloggers, Alberto Callaspo went 5-for-6 in a minor league game yesterday. Eat your heart out.

Today is the longest day of the year. The Angels have the day off. Use your day wisely. I have chosen to embarrass myself again on the pitch. Knights FC tonight at BLD. Won’t you join us at the Grange End?

The King of Sweden it will not irk . . .

2007-06-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

What is wrong with this blog?

The effect is clear. There is nobody writing, and apparently even fewer reading the darn thing. I mean to ask, what is the cause? The Angels are one of the hottest teams in baseball, and after a phenomenal comeback two nights ago, even I’m excited about the team’s chances come autumn. Even last night’s sad result shouldn’t frustrate our spirits, especially as it affords us another great story, the triumphant return of the big “O” to Anaheim. In other news, CS Fullerton got dumped out of the CWS quicker than lager turns into we all know what.

The Angels stand at 45-27, the second best record in the Major Leagues. Their home mark of 25-10 is the very best. They’re hitting .288 as a team and have four regulars hitting over .300. They are one of a handful teams with an ERA under 4.00. They also lead the American League in stolen bases. In almost every aspect of the game they are excelling. Two nights ago, they pulled a victory out from a 9-4 deficit, bailing out His Lackness after one of his poorest outings of the season. After a five run seventh inning to even up, Trainwreck capped a sensational game with a game-winning RBI hit in the ninth, scoring Willits from first base. Fig ended 6-for-6 on the night, the first Angel in over ten years to do so, since S&S did it in 1996, when he was still swinging with his eyes closed. At his current pace, Anderson will likely take another ten years before he compiles six more hits. But GA’s injury woes have been beneficial. It has given Rookie of Year Reggie Willits his chance. Willits had three more hits last night, putting him at .337. He also leads all AL rookies in stolen bases and runs scored, and is quickly becoming a fan favourite.

Not only can I barely compose a paragraph concerning the Angels recent surge, but last night we had the added delight of seeing our team host an old favourite, Orlando Palmeiro. The Big “O” lived up to his just billing, going 4-for-5 with a pair of doubles. How did we let this guy get away? Do you know he still lunches with Garret Anderson and Tim Salmon? At least he claims he does and I believe him. Not only is he the Big “O” and it helps to be seen in public with such a person, but he’s also such a lousy tipper, that GA and Fish can always find a ready scapegoat when the waitress realizes she’s been had by a pair of millionaires.

For the first time in nine appearances since 1990, the Titans were dismissed after two games in the College World Series. They got dusted by OSU and then lost a marathon against UC Irvine. Yes, UC Irvine. I’ve not much more to say, and I invite Wise&Eck to add his thoughts. I hated college almost half as much as I hated high school and if Fullerton didn’t have such a good baseball team, I wouldn’t give my mater neclegentissimus another thought.

There is more and in spite of it, the “Less Hip” crew is dumb. Oh, what hope we had when we first began. Perhaps we’ve just failed. Fellow bloggers, let us take up and blog! If you write it, they will come.

the baseball diaries

2007-06-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

"Well, what's the use in complaining,
When you've got what you don't need?
Anyone would think you were hardened too,
What do you want me to believe?"

The Hit Parade!

23 hits, 16 runs, WOW!! And Leave it to Weaver found his way again, giving up only one run over 7 innings, dropping his ERA to 3.88. Too bad Fat Tire gave up to more. Doesn't matter when EVERY starter has a hit and/or a run scored. GM Juicer? WORD! 4 hits, the grand salami, and my respect. Cab Fare? G'd up! 4 hits, 2 ribbies, 4 runs scored, cab ride home with a hottie or 2... Krotch Gobbie? Yes, more where that came from! MoNapoli? Pass Go, collect $400. Sit 'N Sleep? He's one lazy ... . Which obviated Bladimir Guerrero's (say it like Jose Mota) bat. Hmm, "How many times can I get thrown out in a game?" he must've asked himself. Whatever, they ripped Boof and Mini-soda to pieces, wanting to do the same tonight as Lambo faces the hope of the white north, Scott Baker.

halo,
dil8d halo

"What the hell is happening?
I can't think of everything.
I don't know what day it is,
Or who I'm talking to..." -- New Order

TW Hit List - Hank Aaron

2007-05-23T16:19:00.000-07:00

"Henry Aaron is simply smarter than all the pitchers. He deceives pitchers. One of his secrets is his slow manner, he puts pitchers to sleep." - Ernie Johnson

Hank Aaron is baseball’s undisputed “Home Run King”, at least for a couple more months. Williams calls Aaron a classic mistake hitter. “When he got a pitch to hit, he missed it less often than anybody else.” And he got a lot of pitches to hit. Aaron played for twenty-three seasons and has the most games played and at-bats of anyone on the Hit List. But longevity should not be used against someone. He made it count. He managed to maintain a .305 batting average and career .932 OPS over 12,000 at-bats. In addition to his record 755 home runs, he remains the Major League career leader in extra-base hits (1,477), RBIs (2,297) and total bases (6,856). He's tied with Babe Ruth for fourth in runs scored (2,174) and is third in hits (3,771). He hit 20 or more home runs for 20 consecutive seasons from 1955-74. Aaron had eight seasons with 40 or more homers, including a career-high 47 in 1971. He had 63 multi-homer games and 16 grand slams. What is more, Aaron was not simply a home run hitter. He hit .300 or better 14 times, averaged just 63 strikeouts a season, stole 240 bases in his career and won three Gold Gloves in the outfield.

Obviously, Aaron was a monster in the batter’s box. Apparently, he was nearly the opposite outside of it. He has been blamed for lacking charisma and being too colorless and predictable. It is for these reasons that many say he has not received the attention he’s due. I don’t get it. I’ve heard as much about him as anyone else. This game is supported by the fans, and they may show their affection for whom they will. Williams implies that nobody is likely to break his mark of 755 career home runs. Even without Barry Bonds lurking in the foreground, it’s hard to understand this sentiment. The game cycles and records are made to be broken. As it is, we see that Williams was way off. But this is to say nothing against Aaron. He has surely cemented his spot as one of the great all-time hitters.

"I looked for the same pitch my whole career, a breaking ball. All of the time. I never worried about the fastball. They couldn't throw it past me, none of them."

the baseball diaries

2007-05-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

"I was ridin' my horse, down by the Rio Grand-ee,
And all them coyotes singin', in a prairie symphony..."

Don't look now, but the Angels are on a tear!! Winners of SIX straight, riding high on the performances of their pitching staff (except Cousin Oliver) and the bats of Reggie and the Full Effect, CabFare, Bladimir, and Gary Matthews Juicer, these blokes are on a mission! Not to mention the timely slugging from Quinnie the Pooh and MoNapoli and the great glove work from Gaybar.

Tonight Barcholo the Magical Fat-Faced Talking Pinata takes the hill vs. Chad Durbin of le Tigre, seeking a seventh straight win for the Halos.

Seriously though, how badass is Reggie? This kid is top ten in BA and OBP (but needs more ab's to qualify amongst the leaders recognized by the league) and is exactly what the doctor ordered for the Angels as a leadoff guy. I'm loving every minute of it!

And how about that sweep of the Dodgers? That was simply awesome, outscoring them 19-4 over the three game set! Smashing!

dil8d halo

"Ee he o he-o cowboy, Ee he o he-o oooo,

Ee he o he-o cowboy, cowboy, cowboy,

Under the moon.

Giddyup."

Pitch Speeds

2007-05-14T15:52:00.000-07:00

So, my nerdy side prevailed and I looked into finding out about pitch speeds. To set this up, think of the last Angels game you watched on FSN. Try to forget the fact that the Fizz just put the emphises on the wrong part of the score (i.e. when the Angels were Down 5-0 and they score two runs, Fizz said, "...now it's FIVE to two...) and check your memory of the pitch speed in the upper right-hand corner of the screen. Sometimes for Frod's fastballs it'll read 96 MPH! But is that the pitch's "real" speed as it crosses the plate (after Jeter takes a useless swing at it)? Or does it cross the plate at, say, 91 mph? According to MLB.com's Gameday pitch tracker, there are two distinct speeds: The release speed (from the pitchers hand) and the result speed (at home plate, regardless if the ball hit the catcher's glove or the batter made contact). The speed readings are compiled by time/distance video tracking and calculated for every pitch. The results are intriguing and different from what we would see on the radar reading we get on TV. I asked Alan Nathan, who runs a website titled the Physics of Baseball, his take on this. He says the radar reading most likely only measures the speed of the pitch about 1/4 of the way between the release of the ball from the pitcher's hand to home plate. He even goes on to say that the speed indicated on TV is most likely 2-3 mph slower than the release point and ends up being perhaps up to 7 mph slower at home plate compared to the release point. He figures a 10% DECREASE in ball speed from release to "result" (home plate). I tried out his theory and garnered the following results, based on the memory of speeds indicated on Gameday. In my very unscientific test, I got a decrease in release/resulst speed of approximately 5.5 to 6.5%, depending on different release/result speeds used, which I observed.

I guess this conclusion can be derived: Radar readings are an inaccurate way of determining pitch speed. A more accurate measure is video time/distance tracking which effectively measures the rate of speed at home plate, where the batter is.

After all of that, check out this video clip:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQrQkgcty0I

TW Hit List - Joe Jackson

2007-05-10T09:36:00.000-07:00

“Shoeless” Joe Jackson is one of the more noted figures in baseball history. But it is not mainly for his bat, but for his involvement in the 1919 World Series. This is a shame, for Williams claims for Jackson that he was the best pure hitter ever. It is not the purpose here to discuss the “BlackSox” scandal, Jackson’s alleged role, or its aftermath. However, we should say that Jackson’s numbers and achievements, even with a shortened career, easily show him to be Hall of Fame-worthy.

Just about anybody who saw Jackson play considered him in a class by himself. To some degree, he played in the shadow of Ty Cobb. In his first three seasons (1910-1912), he batted .387, .408 and .395, but Cobb won the batting title each season! (Okay, 1910 was nothing close to a full season for Jackson. As it was, Cobb and Nap Lajoie engaged in a famous batting duel that is a story in itself). Cobb was a fierce, gung-ho ballplayer who always played with all-out abandon. And oh yes, he was extremely good and hit for extremely high averages. But so did Jackson. And Jackson was graceful whereas Cobb was anything but. He was quick and strong with a perfectly fluid swing. Babe Ruth himself said he modeled his own swing after Jackson’s, “I copied Jackson's style because I thought he was the greatest hitter I had ever seen, the greatest natural hitter I ever saw. He's the guy who made me a hitter." From my reading of Williams and others, I get the impression that for a few decades in the middle of the twentieth century, Jackson was nearly forgotten about. He was nearly memory-holed. But his story just couldn’t be kept down for long. One of the greatest players ever naively mixed up in a scandal that results in his banishment from baseball and the neglect of fans for years. Williams gives a sort of apology for including him in the book despite his official status. I don’t see the need. The results speak for themselves.

Jackson finished with the third highest batting average ever at .356, behind only Cobb and Hornsby, and a career .940 OPS. He had less than half the at-bats of most the other fellows on this list, but he still finished with over 1,700 hits and nearly a thousand runs and RBI’s. He maintained a bases-on-balls to strikeout ratio of over 3:1 and struck out only once in every 26.48 at-bats, a ratio far better than anyone else on this list, even Cobb. His .408 average in 1911 is still the highest for a rookie full season and for what it’s worth, he led batters in the 1919 WS with a .375 clip. This list is about hitting, but it is known that Jackson was a superb fielder as well. He had a gifted arm, a real outfielder’s instinct, and his glove was a place “where triples go to die.” Speaking of triples, we’ll end this post with another gem of baseball lore:

In the early days of baseball, bench jockeying was prevalent and accepted. Shoeless Joe was decidedly lacking in book learning, a fact not lost on rival teams. As he stood at the plate awaiting the next delivery one hot August afternoon, a leather lung in the enemy dugout bellowed, “Can you spell illiterate?” Jackson responded with a stinging live drive and ended up in a cloud of dust on third base. Brushing himself off, he turned toward his tormentor and with a devilish grin asked, “Can you spell triple?”

the baseball diaries

2007-05-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

Ah Barcholo, the Magical Fat Faced Talking Pinata. He faces Social Anxiety Disorder-suffering Zack Greinke of the Royales w/ cheese, tonight in Kaci (wow, that was a stretch to fit all those references in...). Hoping to follow up on their win yesterday, the Angels can count on Fignuts to be in the lineup again tonight. He tallied his first rbi of the season last night in his first start. Glad to see him back! Vladdy also chimed in with two rbi's in the first inning. Also, His Lackness pitched a fine 6 1/3 innings allowing only one run and striking out seven! Fresh, Pyre, and Frod did the rest.

By the way, the picture posted of 'Cholo was taken from over a mile away and he still filled the entire frame!

dil8d halo

Meet the 2007 JC Romero!

2007-04-25T11:26:00.000-07:00

Darren Oliver is horrible. Please cut him. And sign his namesake...

Association Football

2007-04-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

Hello Lads!

Knights FC had a heck of a night last Thursday. After winning two in a row to make the playoffs, the Knights were left missing four highly skilled players, including their 'keeper. Without hesitation, they took the field thinking that there is nothing to lose. Well, it turned out to be a great battle.

The game started with a cracking strike on goal by Tony, but to no avail as the shot went just high. Then it all fell apart in the counter attack which left the Knights to look at a 2-nil deficit. thankfully, better nerves prevailed and heavy attack lead to two hard fought come-back goal. After half time, the Knights took the lead a glorious strike and decided for some odd reason to sit on their laurels. Big mistake. Lapses in defence and poor not taking goal chances once again left them down on the score sheet, 4-3, with only 1:30 on the clock. This made for a mad dash to the end which saw an onslaught of strikes by the now desperate Knights forwards. And they were handsomely rewarded. On a mere :14 seconds remaining, the tying goal was shoved into the back of he net by Matt to send the game to "Golden Goal" extra time!

Given two, three minute halves of extra time , unless someone scores the Golden Goal winner, can be gut wrenching. Let me tell, it was! The Retired Athletes, the Knights formidable opponents on the night, started the first extra time half blasting away shot after shot, only to be parried away again and again by 6' - 4" Welshman, Jason. In the 2nd extra time period, the Knights turned the tables on the attack, but could not nick the winning goal, as a penalty shootout loomed.

The final whistled went and penalties were on. Up first, Retired Athletes. Their first shot sailed wide and the Knights' 'keeper was left to just watch. However, the first Knight to shoot was saved from close range. The RA's managed a goal on their next try only to be matched by usually unlucky Knights striker, Phil. RA came right back with a cracking strike, but the outstretched Welshman prove too good to be beaten. However, attacking center forward Nelson, could not find the quality to put Knights ahead as his chance was easily saved. That brought on RA again, with the shootout now at 1-1. Again the Welshman could not be beat as he was kean on every move. Then Anthony, the Knights' bulldog, who didn't hesitate to take a menacing strike after a small set-up touch, which left the game in the hands of the Welshman. Throughout history the Welsh have proved to be formidable foes, just ask the English. On this day, one should've asked Retired Athletes.

The final shot taker for RA was set. Jason looked poised, ready to pounce. As the striker put small touches on the ball Jason closed ground rapidly, then the shot cracked off the strikers foot! Diving to his left, the Welshman almost left himself out of position, for the shot was going RIGHT! Yet as fate would have it, Jason's height came through as he had enough to parry the shot with his feet sending Knights Football Club into the most unlikely final one would conceive. Here's to the Knights!

The Templar

Yes, there is a place called Splott

2007-04-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

'Halo makes light of a welshman blogging about baseball, but Mr. Chris Webster, honorary secretary of the Welsh Baseball Union ("WBU"), would remind us that baseball has an esteemed history in Wales and still gathers modest interest, especially in Cardiff and Newport. The WBU now runs a three-division league and the sport is highlighted by an annual international between Wales and England.

Granted, the game is played quite differently than we do in the States, but it would help us to remember the debt we owe to those who played the game before us. Start here and let the journey begin.

TW Hit List - Stan Musial

2007-04-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

"Here stands baseball's perfect warrior. Here stands baseball's perfect knight."—Ford C. Frick

"When a pitcher's throwing a spitball, don't worry and don't complain, just hit the dry side like I do."—“Stan the Man” Musial

Stan Musial’s career was widely acclaimed for sustained excellence and integrity. Or as Williams puts it, “The kind of hitter—and the kind of man—for whom they erect statues.” Musial played his entire 22-year career with the St. Louis Cardinals where the fans still adore him for his great ballplaying and his solid citizenry. Compared to previous entries, he is characterized by a certain lack of colorfulness. He hadn’t the hostile fierceness of Cobb, the graceful style of Dimaggio, the intimidating presence at the plate of Gehrig or Foxx, much less the towering persona of Babe Ruth. But he was and is loved by the fans as a true baseball hero. Williams says the way he conducted his baseball life suggested a man who escaped from the cover of the Saturday Evening Post.

He may not have been such a hero to pitchers, however. He led the league in total bases six times and won seven batting titles. He batted over .300 seventeen times. He maintained a .331 career average, and finished with the then-NL record for hits with 3,630, which to this day ranks fourth all-time among both leagues. His OPS was .977 and he still hit .330 is his next-to-last season when he forty-one years old. He was known for smacking left-handed pitchers almost as well as right-handers. He famously batted .314 in his career off Hall of Fame great lefthander, Warren Spahn, who once admitted that Musial was the only man he once intentionally walked with the bases loaded. If Spahn had such trouble, what was the remedy for pitching to this man? Preacher Roe found nothing, “I throw him four wide ones and then try to pick him off first base.”

When it was all done, Musial had three MVP awards, three World Series rings, and yes that consummate nickname, “The Man.” This appellation was given by Dodger fans(!) for his constant exploits against the Dodgers at Ebbets Field. He is one of only two players to hit five home runs in a doubleheader. Interestingly, when he did it first in 1954, Nate Colbert was an old eight-year old boy watching from the stands. Colbert became the second in 1972. There are some who would say he is often overlooked when debates about the greatest ever flare up, but those who played with him and against him know better than to do so. "He was one of the greatest players I ever played against," said Hank Aaron. "And he is an even better person."

Knights FC!

2007-04-13T14:09:00.000-07:00

This the time for rejoicing!!!

After a hard fought season, Knights Football Club have made the playoffs. It took some grit and determination, but after securing 3 wins, 3 draws, and thankfully only 2 defeats, we are through to the post-season. Next Thursday is a potential double header. We are in a semi final, if we win that game, we are through to the final the same day. This could be HUGE!

Contra Mundum!

the Tempar

dil8d halo Hit List - "The Ty Cobb of the Federal League"

2007-04-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

When it comes to defining the Federal League, only one name says it all - Benny Kauff. Over the two seasons spent in the Federal League, the last true rival to the Major American and National Leagues, Benny Kauff amassed quite lofty hitting statistics. In 1914, playing for the Indianapolis Hoosiers, "Ty Cobb of the Fed" hit for a .370 average, with 8 homers, 95 rbi's, had 211 hits which included 44 doubles and 13 triples. He received 72 bases on balls, but never intentionally. He also scored 120 runs that year. The following season, 1915, to bolster the line-up of the only Federal New York franchise, he was traded to the Brooklyn Tip Tops. His season with the Tip Tops produced almost equally impressive marks for Kauff as he hit .342, 12 hr's, 83 rbi's. 23 of his 165 hits were doubles, 11 were triples, and he walked 85 times. For his efforts in the doomed league, he was named batting champion both seasons.

Benny Kauff did have a career in the majors before and after playing in the Fed. In 1912, his rookie season, he played for the New York Highlanders. 1916 through 1920 saw him practice his trade with the New York Giants. They allegedly purchased his contract from the Tip Tops for $35,000. Funny thing is, he was payed about $6,000 for the 1915 season. In Game Four of the 1917 World Series, Kauff hit two home runs and got three rbi's in the Giants 5-0 victory over the Chicago White Sox. They lost the title in six games. In 1918 his season was cut short due to service in World War I.

His last full season was 1919 and in December of that year, his life as a player took a horrible blow. He was implicated in a car theft ring along with his brother. Because of appearances for trials and such, his 1920 season saw him play in only 55 games. He was acquitted of all charges on May 13, 1921.

Sadly though, in 1921, the "Ty Cobb of the Federal League" was banned for life from baseball by Commissioner Kennesaw Mountain Landis. Said Landis of Benny Kauff, "He had an undesirable reputation and character. That acquittal was one of the worst miscarriages of justice that ever came under my observation."

Benny "Ty Cobb of the Federal League" Kauff died November 17, 1961 in Columbus, Ohio, still banned from baseball.

TW Hit List - Ty Cobb

2007-04-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

“When I began playing the game, baseball was about as gentlemanly as a kick in the crotch."

Ty Cobb was known as one of the fiercest competitors in the earlier days of the game. He was and is widely acclaimed for his obvious talent, but just as widely criticized for his all-out, win-at-all-costs attitude that tended to alienate him from fans and teammates. He was considered mean. Every photo you might find of him, he has a glare and a snarl. He always looked as if he was out to get someone. Williams says that some might say he played like a man possessed. Naturally, he’s one of my favourites. In the den of my house, a framed photo captures his grit and sheer delight in getting dirty. He was the quintessential “old school” ballplayer. The great Branch Rickey said about him, “Cobb lived off the field as though he wished to live forever. He lived on the field as though it was his last day."

And yes, he was also a great hitter. Williams mentions having several conversations with Cobb and strongly disagreeing with some of Cobb’s hitting ideas. Cobb notoriously held the bat with his two hands several inches apart from each other, which he claimed helped him control the ball better. He also said he moved to the outside/inside depending on the pitch. Williams was stunned. How do you move when the pitch is on the way? The feet need to be planted and the hands must do the work of adjusting. I’m inclined to agree with Williams, and yet one can’t argue with results. And the results are impressive. (If you want to see a list of Cobb’s batting tips, here is one place. Remember Cobb was a lefthanded batter.)

Cobb won the batting title ten times and hit over .400 three times. He batted over .300 in 23 of 24 seasons! He finished with the highest career total in runs scored and hits and batting average. Pete Rose passed him for hits only in 1985, and then in 2001, Rickey Henderson passed him for runs scored, but each mark held for over half a century. And he remains the all-time batting leader at .366 for his career. He also stole home plate a record 54 times and in fact, stole second base, third base, and home plate in the same inning on four separate occasions. Williams makes much of Cobb’s intelligence for the game along with his natural talent. He does suggest that Cobb was certainly one of the game’s greatest natural hitters. (Interestingly, Cobb himself called Shoeless Joe the greatest natural hitter ever.)

Cobb is also the subject of one of my favourite pieces of baseball lore:

Decades after he retired from the game, a sportswriter asked him, “Mr. Cobb, what do you think you’d hit if you were playing these days?” Cobb said, “Oh, if I played today I’d hit .290, maybe .300.” The reporter, somewhat stunned, asked, “You are the game’s all-time hitter and you’d maybe hit .300? Are today’s pitchers that much better than the ones you faced?” Cobb replied, “You’ve got to remember – I’m 73.”

"The base paths belonged to me, the runner. The rules gave me the right. I always went into a bag full speed, feet first. I had sharp spikes on my shoes. If the baseman stood where he had no business to be and got hurt, that was his fault."

the baseball diaries

2007-04-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

Since when does Vlad have to be on "Big O" duty?

Another one run game, but this time the Angels were on the wrong side of it. Dang it! All in all though, it was a good series. Vlad drove in five runs over the weekend and continued his awesomeness. Our pitching was excelent. The only thing lacking is the clutch hitting. Step it up boys!

A big thank you goes out to Seth and Nicole Warren for the tickets to Saturday night's game! We enjoyed the win.

The Angels head off to Cleveland, uh, er, Milwaukee for thier first road trip of the season. Yep, they have to play in a different state because of too much snow! (what was that about Global Warming...??) Magic will face the hittable CC Sebathia tomorrow at 4:05pm. After three games against the Tribe, the Angels are off to Boston for a battle with the Red Sux.

dil8t halo

the baseball diaries

2007-04-06T14:44:00.000-07:00

"Oh me. Oh My..."

AAAAArrrrgggghhhhh! After starting the season by sweeping Texas, the Angels welcomed Chokeland last night. Unfortunately, the gA's weren't very pleasant guests, beating the good guys 4-3. Barry Saunders had a decent game on the hill, but the Angels were playing catchup the whole game. Vlad continued to crush all things covered in white leather as he busted his 2nd homer. Then Sit'n Sleep came up and made the pitcher say, "Doh!" as he busted his 1st homer of the season. Back-toback jacks! Nice! That tied it up at 2 a piece, yet the gA's wouldn't die. In the top of the 9th, tied at 3, with 2 outs, Frod served up a fat ass meatball to, formerly rumored to be gay, Mike Piazza for the loss. Ouch.

What was Bam Bam Ebel doing sending Crotch Gob home? He was mincemeat.

Tonight sees Sugar Shane face off vs. Joe "Ich bin ein Berliner" Kennedy. Let's beat these freakin' blokes!

dil8d halo

"Broken engagments and twisted faith.

Growing up and then just growing older.

Oh me. Oh my." -- Modern English

Clean Sweep!

2007-04-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

Bust out the dust pan 'cuz Texas has just been swept!

The Angels came alive today in the 1st innings, scoring four runs, and went on to win their 3rd game of the season, 5-3. Once again Gary Matthews Juicer tagged his former club and Vladdy killed for more hits and rbis. Magic pitched a fine game, despite giving up two runs in the 3rd, going seven innings and racking up six K's! Fiasco pitched a perfect 8th, but Frod had trouble in the 9th, allowing two hits, a walk, and a run, while striking out two. Sit'n Sleep chimed in with two hits, two runs, and a ribbie. It has been discovered that he is still lazy. One awesome thing about today's game: No Errors!

The Angels continue their home stand vs. Chokeland tomorrow, as Barry Saunders looks to make his first start.

not to be forgotten. . . .

2007-04-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately for WiseandEck, 66.66666667% of the contributers of this blog are footbal fans. So, he will bear these friendly reminders:

--After being solidly defeated by Chivas on Tuesday to knock them out of the CONCACAF Champions Cup, DC United begin their MLS campaign this Saturday at Colorado. The MLS's most decorated club saw defeat on Tuesday as Goalkeeper Troy Perkins allowed the decisive goal to literally slip through his fingers. To be sure, Perkins followed with a pair of fine saves, but United had not the punch to equalize.

--UEFA Champions League quarterfinals continue today with Roma vs. Man U and Chelsea vs. Valencia. On the other side of the quarter-draw, Liverpool has already almost secured a semi-final match while Milan has some work to do against Bayern. In the end may everyone be happy enough as long as Valencia does not go through.

--Most importantly, Knights FC play a pivotal match tomorrow night (Thursday) vs. Real Montana as their current CH-BLD season winds down. May the Knights play with their heads up and their hearts low.

Game 2 Hero - Vladdy

2007-04-04T07:27:00.000-07:00

First off, I hate Padilla. Second, Vlad is the man.

the baseball diaries

2007-04-03T12:39:00.000-07:00

ANGLZWN!!!

How about that for an opener?! His Lackness was calm and collected even after allowing trouble, as he worked five strong innings to give up just one unearned run. Unearned because MoNapoli couldn't come up with a catch off a fly ball behind the plate. A couple pitches later Texas 2nd baseman, Ian Kinsler, smashed a homer to deep center. But the Angels were on the score sheet first as Vlad drove in Gary Matthews Juicer on a first pitch double to start his third season in a row with an rbi on his first at bat. In the 2nd Crotch Goblin stepped into one just beating Lofton in center and bouncing off the top of the wall for his first homer of the season. What an awesome start for him with two hits in his three ab's. Even Sit'n Sleep got in on the action late in the game roping a double then scoring on Che's single. The bullpen took over in the 6th, but Cousin Oliver was pointless. Just Inspire had to bail his butt out before Doug E. Fresh and Frod shut it down. All in all a very entertaining game and one which I didn't, at any point of the game, think that the Angels would lose.

Tonight the Halos continue vs. Texas and hope to win with Lambo facing off against Vicente "Fox" Padilla.

There were a couple miscues by MoNapoli and Gary Matthews Juicer which prompts to remind them that you gotta squeeze the balls if you wanna put out!

Man, I'm so glad baseball's back. There was this longing that was fulfilled last night. Another chance to go through all the ups and downs of a season. Another chance to root and to heckle. To have camaraderie with like minded people. This season is going to be fantastic!!

dil8d halo

I'll wait to see what happens to me,

Is this fiction or reality?

I'll try my best, but I can't confess,

Why instead of thinking I just took a guess...

-- the flood

Game 1 Hero - Just Inspire

2007-04-03T07:46:00.000-07:00

Cousin Oliver decided to pitch like the despectacled tyke in the Brady Bunch, leaving Speier to come in and mop up his mess, Alice-style.

TW Hit List - Joe DiMaggio

2007-04-02T11:57:00.000-07:00

“Joseph Paul DiMaggio played thirteen seasons in the major leagues and won nine World Championships and three Most Valuable Player awards, but he never sweated on the diamond. Not once. He roamed center field at Yankee Stadium, back when the House that Ruth Built boasted one of the most cavernous outfields in the major leagues, but DiMaggio never had to dive for a soaring fly ball or a soft, sinking line drive. He swatted home runs and loped gracefully around the base paths, but the bat never stung in his hands, the dirt never clogged in his cleats. For thirteen seasons, DiMaggio played frictionless baseball, his perfect play operating outside the laws of physics and random misfortune that torment lesser ballplayers and lesser humans in other fields of endeavor-which is to say, everyone else.” – David Jones

Well, maybe not quite. And although Jones was being facetious, it is clear judging by the effect he had on the game, the fans and some aspects of pop culture, that DiMaggio was a giant on the field, if not off of it. In fact, Williams says he was the best all around player he ever saw and that he simply idolized Joltin’ Joe. On pure hitting talent, I think Ted would have liked to see Joe placed ahead of Hornsby and maybe even Foxx, but the stats were just not there to justify it. He hit a career .325 with 361 home runs and a .977 OPS over thirteen seasons. Remarkably, he stuck out only 369 times, barely above his home run total. He was MVP three times, and incredibly won the World Series in nine of his thirteen seasons with the Yankees. He is likely best known for his 56 game hitting streak in 1941. (Here is a review article on a book written about the streak by the brilliant, but misguided, Stephen Jay Gould. I strongly disagree with the main thrust of the article, but it is an interesting and enjoyable read. Gould also brings up the question of why truly good writers are always drawn to baseball. He can’t answer it. I can’t either, but I suspect the kind of characteristics in a person that make a good writer are similar to the ones that make a good baseball fan. How I’d love to see a good book written that discusses the issue.) So, Joe was a fearful hitter to be sure, but lacked the numbers of Foxx and Hornsby. On the other hand, Joe played as a right-hander at Yankee Stadium. It was not the “House that Ruth Built” for nothing. When DiMaggio played, left field ranged from 402’ to 457’ while, right field was 296’ down the line. It is supposed that many long fly-outs would have been home runs in many other parks. He also lost some time in the armed forces. But I would say that everyone must be compared to their own peers and time and besides, he played year after year on some of the best teams ever, which can have a beneficial effect on the stats. However graceful his playing style may have appeared, results are what count.

But his style was apparently graceful, and he is remembered as one of the greatest ballplayers by many who saw him. And this is why the Yankee Clipper deserves his spot in baseball lore, not to mention the TW Hit List. No sport inspires like baseball, and he has possibly inspired like no other ballplayer. While I cannot stomach Gould’s philosophy, he was a true lifetime baseball fan. He said, “Baseball is like a river, both in the steady pace of its own action ... and in the continuity it establishes with our past through the isolation of individual performance. . . I don't know why grown men care so deeply about something that neither kills, nor starves, nor maims, nor even scratches in our world of woe. I don't know why we care so much, but I'm mighty glad that we do." Perhaps baseball attracts the best writers because good writing requires clear thinking, and no other game helps us think more clearly about the constancy of life punctuated by sudden events, for some joyful and for others sorrowful, than baseball.

2007 ANGELS NICKNAME KEY

2007-03-29T10:50:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest challenges we have encountered in maintaining this blog is the difficulty of attracting readers. I think one of the main reasons for this is our love of nicknames, nicknames 99.9999% of the general popluation don't understand. So, in an effort to de-alienate (is this a word?) our potential readers, I have devised a nickname key. Whenever a name stumps you and you have no clue who we're talking about, peruse the key and find out. Sound easy? It's as easy as the other side of the pillow. Or something.

2007 ANGELS NICKNAME KEY

Pitchers

Hector Carrasco = Hector Fiasco

Bartolo Colon = Barcholo Cologne

Kelvim Escobar = Lambo

John Lackey = His Lackness

Dustin Moseley = Sugar Shane

Darren Oliver = Cousin Oliver

Chris Resop = Poser, Resop Choi

Francisco Rodriguez = Frod

Ervin Santana = Magic

Joe Saunders = Barry Saunders

Scot Schields = Doug E. Fresh, One T

Justin Speier = Just Inspire, Justin's Pyre

Jered Weaver = The Good Weaver

Catchers

Jeff Mathis = Johnny

Jose Molina = JoMo

Mike Napoli = Mo'Napoli

Infielders

Erick Aybar = Erick Gaybar

Orlando Cabrera = Cabfare for Cutie, Cabfare, The Big O

Chone Figgins = Fignuts

Shea Hillenbrand = Che Hillenbrand, Shea Hey

Maicer Izturis = Mice Hair

Howie Kendrick = Kenny Howdrick

Casey Kotchman = Crotch Goblin

Dallas McPherson = JR, Chiropractor's Best Friend

Kendry Morales = MORE-Alice

Robb Quinlan = Baby Face, Quinny The Pooh

Outfielders

Garret Anderson = Sit & Sleep, Caddy, Night Train

Nick Gorneault = Dick Porno

Vladimir Guerrero = Vlad

Gary Matthews Jr. = Gary Matthews Juicer

Tommy Murphy = Captain Murphy

Juan Rivera = Johnny Rivers

Reggie Willits = Reggie and the Full Effect

Coaches

Mike Scioscia = Mike Chocha

Ron Roenicke = Enterprise Roenicke (He'll pick you up)

Alfredo Griffin = Fettuccine

Dino Ebel = Bam-Bam

Mickey Hatcher = Dumb ass

Mike Butcher = Sam (Haha, two Brady Bunch references in our list of nicknames. Cool!)

Orlando Mercado = The Market

Steve Soliz = NONE

Non-roster invitees

Chris Bootcheck = Fat Tire, Bootcheck Bootcheck Ghali

Matt Hensley = Sherman Hensley

Alex Serrano = Pedro Serrano

Mike Eylward = The L Word

Brandon Wood = NONE (HELP!)

Nathan Haynes = Haynes His Way

Curtis Pride = Deaf Cab for Curtis, Pride (In the name of love)

There you have it. I am open to all suggestions and help on the ones I forgot.

You Know What To Do, Lackey...

2007-03-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

"But this time," Guillen, 30, says, "I have the chance to get even. My motivation is Anaheim. I hope those fans boo me. That just makes me better. I want to show those people what they're missing.

Is Hoagie serious? I really hope Lackey beans him, gets tossed, Doug E. Fresh come in, beans him, gets tossed, followed by Frod beaning him and getting tossed. The suspensions would be worth it.

Here's the rest of his diatribe.

the baseball diaries spring training edition

2007-03-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

That was awesome!

After a year away, this was the best time I've had at Angels Spring Training. The food, the sights, the sounds, the girls. It was great! A couple Angels that stood out to me so far were Fignuts, Kenny Howdrick, and His Lackness. Both had great games on Sunday; Lackey looked sharp on the mound, Fignuts was great at 3rd, and Howie was awesome at the plate.

Besides the baseball action, just the whole atmosphere was great this year. Lots of families, lots of opportunities to get minor league autographs because of the way the facilities are set up. We even got Ryne Sandberg's autograph! Did I mention the food? I can only wish Angels Stadium brings on half of what was available: Philly cheesesteaks, all kinds of sausages, italian ice, there was even a gyros joint at the Mariner facility.

I seriously can't wait for the season to start. Can't wait to "Turn on the TV, and turn down my pulse."

dil8d halo

Springtime Musings

2007-03-12T11:01:00.000-07:00

Today is Monday. On Thursday, we will be in beautiful Tempe, Arizona, working on our sunburns and watching Angels baseball. In the meantime, I have compiled a list of players that have impressed me and pissed me off so far this spring. I'll do a revised list when I get back to see how on target I was.

HITTERS

HIGH-FIVE:

1. Erick Gaybar: 5-for-6 on Saturday, a home run yesterday. Mice Hair better watch out or he may be learning the ways of the Mormons before long.

2. Kenny Howdrick: Batting .500 so far in the spring. Ho-hum. He'll hit .300 this season, guaranteed.

3. Reggie Willits: Let's think of a new nickname for him this weekend, please. The Diff'rent Strokes reference is too easy. Reggie's hitting, running, diving, etc. so far this spring. Captain Murphy may be the odd man out.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!:

1. Johnny Mathis: Uhhhh, Jeff? Didn't you used to be a top prospect? I'm pretty sure Mathis couldn't hit the coach pitching in Alex's league right now. He's 1-for-19 this spring. Yuck.

2. Gary Matthews Juicer: I hated him before he was an Angel, I hated him when he signed with the Angels, and now I hate how he's cowering behind his agent and Robert Shapiro in this whole HGH situation. And I REALLY hate how he's not hitting at all this spring.

PITCHERS

HIGH-FIVE:

1. Pedro Serrano: He's no spring chicken, but he's looking pretty good so far, notching 3 saves in as many chances. He won't make the club, but he's nice to have in reserve.

2. Fat Tire: The front-runner for the last bullpen spot, Fat Tire has done an outstanding job so far. I really, really hope he makes the team and excels. He has it in him.

3. Sugar Shane Moseley: Five shutout innings yesterday with the B squad playing behind him. I'm not a huge fan of the guy, but he's been worth his salt so far.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!:

1. Chris Poser: He doesn't deserve two nicknames, but I am unveiling the new nickname of Resop Choi for us to use from now on. With that said, I hope we don't have to use it much because I hope he isn't in Anaheim, at least not this April. Poser has given up 12 runs in 6 innings and has just looked awful. We traded Geek X for him!?!

2. Phil Seibel: New nickname? How about Crappy Lefthander? Ten runs in 5 innings so far. And we traded The Don for him.

Bratwurst awaits...

Worthy Thoughts About Worthless Angels

2007-03-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

This week's Worthy Thoughts entry is journeyman third baseman Dave Hollins. If you look at his career as a whole, Hollins was a serviceable player in his 12 big league seasons, in which he played for seven different teams. He was hard-nosed, he played on the '93 National League Champion Phillies, he played with diabetes, etc. However, it was his two-year stint with the Angels that leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

Hollins wasn't horrible with the Angels, but he frustrated me more than anyone else on that team, more than the Big O and Ross from Friends combined. The dude ended more big innings than anyone on the team, constantly striking out or popping up, which caused my face to go into more contortions than Max Patkin.

In the field Hollins was even more of a disaster. Whether it was Rickey Henderson or Florence Henderson running to first base, he would wind up and fire the ball to first base with no accuracy whatsoever. They really should have held a "Dave Hollins Hard Hat" promotion at the Big A, because sitting in the first-base seats was a concussion waiting to happen.

My "favorite" encounter with Hollins came on Memorial Day, 1997. A few of us were waiting by the players parking lot to snag an autograph or two and Mr. Hollins walks up.

WiseAndEck: Mr. Hollins, do you have time to sign an autograph?

Hollins: Shouldn't you be in school?

WAE: Sir, it's Memorial Day.

Hollins: But still...

Thank you for that memory, Dave Hollins, and this blog entry is your reward.

TW Hit List - Rogers Hornsby

2007-03-07T15:02:00.000-08:00

"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do, I stare out the window and wait for spring."

It’s been said that Rogers Hornsby was a player whose well-attested all around brilliance was apparently only matched by his capacity to aggravate those around him. But we will honour the dead and only speak of his on-field brilliance, of which there is plenty to say. And for the record, Williams himself says that Hornsby was a coach of his in the Red Sox farm system and “Hornsby treated me as well anybody could have treated me.” In his book, The Science of Hitting, Williams highlights his golden rule: get a good pitch to hit. But he confesses that he learned this from Hornsby during his farm days. And judging from the numbers, Hornsby got a lot of good pitches to hit.

Hornsby was not an obvious talent growing up, or even in the minors. But when came up to the bigs, he broke out. After a .313 rookie season in 1916 playing all four infield spots (he eventually played Short and Third), he established himself as one of the best of the game. He won the NL batting title from 1920 to 1925 and the Triple Crown in 1922 and 1925. Only he and Williams have won the Crown twice. The stretch of seasons he put together from 1921 to 1925 have got to be one of the more remarkable stretches in baseball history. He hit over .400 three times, hitting .424 in 1924, the highest single season average in the twentieth century. He was MVP twice in this time and even more, he took over managing his St. Louis Cardinals in 1925 and led the team to World Series victory in 1926 in a huge upset over the Yankees. (Interestingly, the only World Series to end on a caught stealing when Hornsby laid the tag on Ruth at second base.) After this season, he was rewarded by being traded.

Hornsby finished his career batting .358, second only to Ty Cobb and the best ever by a right-hander. Unlike Cobb though, he had some pop. He hit 301 home runs and a career 1.010 OPS. They say “Rajah” had a fantastically keen eye and the glories of baseball lore give us all the evidence we need: Once, after three consecutive called balls to Hornsby, a brash rookie pitcher complained loudly to umpire Bill Klem only to watch as his fourth delivery landed in the distant bleachers. Klem patiently explained to the young rookie, “When the ball is over the plate young man, Mr. Hornsby will let you know.”

I Love (Spring Training) Opening Day

2007-03-01T10:49:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, nothing like the first spring training game of the season. Nothing like three innings of the starters, followed by six innings of players you've never heard of - but I have. Today marks the first game of the 2007 season for the Angels, as they go up against last year's Little League World Series runner-up, the Kaci Royals. Magic and his nose bleeds takes the hill versus Brian Bannister, the son of one-time Angels retread Floyd Bannister.

Should be a blast. I'll be watching GameTracker and posting my thoughts as the game goes on.

My prediction for first Angels home run ... Mike Napoli. Feel free to prognosticate as well.

Got Wood?

2007-02-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

Minor League short stop Brandon Wood will be moved over to third base for Spring Training, according to an article on the Quakes website. Chocha is hoping to add him to the big club to utilize his massive bat and perhaps nail down the starting job at third. Which brings to me to say this again: JR is a bust and the Angels just need to their losses with him.

If he did win the starting spot, though, I would be amazed. I mean, how many rookie types have had to change positions in the IN FIELD to win the starting job and were successful? I wish him all the luck though, because, hey, the Angels need some pop from that plate!

Our Youngest Blogger...

2007-02-23T08:05:00.000-08:00

Trista approached me the other day and said she wanted to post her own blog entry, and who am I to turn down my favorite 8-year-old niece? So, take it away, TKO...

You guys have mentioned many great players, past and present, but I want to share with you about one great baseball player that I believe you may have overlooked, Her name, (yes it’s girl), Jackie Mitchell, better know as “the girl who struck out Babe Ruth.”

Some sources say that Jackie Mitchell was born in 1912 or 1913. Other sources say that she was born in 1914. Regardless of the year, she was a survivor from the start.

When Virne Beatrice "Jackie" Mitchell was born, she only weighed three-and-a-half pounds. But as soon as she could walk, she went with her father to the baseball diamond. From him, she learned the basics of game.

At that time, Jackie was living in Memphis, Tennessee. Her next-door neighbor was a minor league ballplayer by the name of Dazzy Vance.

Dazzy (who would later play for the Brooklyn Dodgers) quickly recognized Jackie's talent. In fact, he taught her how to throw his favorite pitch. He called it the "drop pitch." This pitch would come in at one level . . . but dropped, right before it reached the plate.

Even though Jackie was only five or six years old, she learned how to throw this pitch. Dazzy Vance was impressed. With foresight, he predicted that Jackie would become a great ball player.

With confidence, Jackie believed him.

When Jackie was sixteen years old, she played for a women's team in Chattanooga, Tennessee. When she was seventeen, she attended a special baseball school in Atlanta, Georgia. As a result, Jackie attracted the attention of Joe Engel, the president and owner of the Chattanooga Lookouts. He offered her a contract to play for the entire 1931 season.

On March 28, 1931, Jackie signed the contract. At that moment, she became an official member of the Chattanooga Lookouts, a Class AA minor league team.

Meanwhile, the New York Yankees had finished spring training in Florida and were on their way to New York. As in previous years, they would stop in Chattanooga to play the Lookouts.

The game was scheduled for April 1. Unfortunately, it rained, and the game was cancelled. By Thursday, April 2, the rains had stopped. At 2:30 that afternoon, the game began.

But Jackie was not the starting pitcher.

Instead, she watched. Earle Combs, the Yankees' lead-off batter, clobbered a double. Lyn Lary was up next. He slapped a single up the middle, scoring Combs from second. Next to bat was Babe Ruth.

At that moment, Manager Niehoff headed to the mound. He pulled the starting pitcher and waved Jackie to the mound.

Jackie's first pitch to the Babe sailed high for a ball. But her next three pitches were strikes. In fact, her final pitch dropped across the plate for a called third strike.

The crowd of 4,000 went wild. But Jackie's work was not over. The next batter was Lou Gehrig, the Yankees' clean-up hitter. On three pitches, she struck him out, too.

The news about Jackie's strikeouts spread across the country. Of course, the news also reached the ears of Kenesaw Mountain Landis, the commissioner of baseball. Landis was not pleased. In fact, he cancelled Jackie's contract on the grounds that baseball was "too strenuous" for women.

But Jackie didn't stop playing ball. Instead, she played for another minor league team, but kept her name off the roster. After that, she spent five years pitching for the House of David, a baseball team that traveled across the country.

At the age of 23, Jackie returned to Chattanooga to work for her father, an eye doctor. She lived the rest of her life in the Chattanooga area.

Jackie died in 1987. However, she always will be remembered as "The Girl Who Struck Out Babe Ruth."

Source: http://www.jeanpatrick.com/jackielife.htm

The Beautiful Game

2007-02-22T14:34:00.000-08:00

"Hello? It's me. An outlaw."

After a few weeks off, Thursday football is back with a vengeance! Knights FC started a new campaign a fortnight ago with a resounding 12-4 victory over Silver Bullets! Unfortunately, last week, the Poor Knights of Christ were pushed off the field in a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Retired Athletes. Needless to say, we need a bounce back and hope to get it tonight vs. Real Montana. We have our best guys back, after they missed last week's game, and hope to be in control and most of all WIN!!!

See you all at the Stadium of Light, at 10:30 pm sharp.

Semper Contra Mundum

The Templar

Weird...

2007-02-18T18:43:00.000-08:00

TW Hit List - Jimmie Foxx

2007-02-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

“If you asked the baseball gods to design the perfect power hitter, they would probably just point to Jimmie Foxx and say, ‘It’s already been done.’” So says Mr. Ted Williams. There is no doubt that “Double XX” was one of greatest pure power hitters of all time. From 1929 to 1940, he averaged 40 home runs a season and hit over 100 RBI’s each year. He finished with a career 1.038 OPS and .325 batting average. Williams says nobody knew he knew hit ‘em as hard with the possible exception of Mantle, saying they sounded like cherry bombs when he hit them out. Indeed, Foxx was knows as the “Beast”, at least to opposing pitchers and there may have been no pitcher more affected than the great Lefty Gomez of the Yankees. It is said Foxx once hit a ball thrown by Gomez into the upper left-field stands of Yankee stadium so hard that the ball broke a seat in the next to last row just to the left of the bullpen area. Whether true or not, Gomez did not forget: "I was pitching one day when my glasses clouded up on me. I took them off to polish them. When I looked up to the plate, I saw Jimmie Foxx. The sight of him terrified me so much that I haven't been able to wear glasses since." When Yankee manager Joe McCarthy asked what pitch he threw him, Gomez said, "It was the greatest pitch I ever threw-for the first 60 feet.”

One of the aspects of our beloved game that separates it from the rest is its history and lore. And if Foxx could inspire such fear in a pitcher of Gomez’ caliber, we should be remiss not to include another tale. In a key situation, Gomez shook off the first sign from catcher Bill Dickey. He continued to shake off Dickey’s signs until Dickey called time and strode to the mound. "I've gone through every pitch you have! What do you want to throw to him?" he demanded. "Nothing," said Gomez. "I figure if I wait a while, maybe he’ll get a phone call.”

When he retired, he only trailed Ruth for all-time home runs. But Foxx said he did not go after home runs. “But if I had broken Ruth's record, it wouldn’t have made any difference. Oh, it might have put a few more dollars in my pocket, but there was only one Ruth.” Interestingly, his first home run came against the Yankees during a double-header in which Ruth homered in both games. But the farmhand from Maryland who was known by his Red Sox teammates as a low-ball hitter and a high-ball drinker, deservedly cemented his own place in baseball history.

Quakes Opening Day!

2007-02-13T10:56:00.000-08:00

What up my brothas?!

Mark your calenders for April 5th, 2007, that is opening day for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes at the Epicenter! They start the season vs. Lake Elsinore Storm.

I do have some concerns though for this season, namely what kind of promotions will be put on for home games. Last year, there were daily promotions such as Monday Madness, which consisted of a $12 package that included 2 tickets, 2 dogs, 2 drinks, and 2 popcorns. Not bad! Tuesdays was music night, Wednesdays was "Winnie Wednesdays" with $1 hot dogs, "Thirsty Thursdays" was $1 beers and sodas, Friday "Family Night" with fireworks and for $40 you got 4 tickets, 4 dogs, 4 drinks, and a Gameworks coupon. This year i called them and the only things confirmed were Winnie Wednesdays, Thirsty Thursday, and fireworks on Fridays. They were undecided on bringing back any of the other stuff. I would be very disappointed if they didn't bring back the Monday Madness. I went to many of the Monday games just for the deal! Anyway, maybe we should petition them to bring back the deal of something similar at least.

Also, some of the new ideas for promotions I think are just retarded. On the Quakes website http://www.rcquakes.com/ they have a survey of which promotion people want to see. The lame choices are: Unemployment night; Mullet/80's night (which wouldn't be too bad if it were just 80's no mullets); Football night (football? at a baseball game?); Tattoo night; and Future night. Who was the ad wizard that thought of this crap?!

Anyway, here's to hopefully a really fun season of Quakes baseball!

Lew Burdette 1926-2007

2007-02-09T12:10:00.000-08:00

He only played with the Angels for two seasons at the end of his career, but Lew Burdette was a great pitcher in his day. He died Tuesday of lung cancer. Burdette was the 1957 World Series MVP for the Milwaukee Braves and a two-time all-star. He finished his career with a 202-144 record. Not bad at all.

R.I.P.

Worthy Thoughts About Worthless Angels

2007-02-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd start a new feature on this blog, where I talk about an Angel from years' past. Most of these will be completely obscure and useless players, which makes you go, "Wow, I haven't thought of that guy in years!" I think it will be fun to reminisce a bit. Some days I'll go into long, droning diatribes about a player and on others, maybe just a photo.

I'm still trying to come up with a name for this experiment, so if you have any ideas, let me know. In the meantime, I'm going with Random Angel of the Day.

The inaugural member of this series is Sweet Lou Merloni Bologna. I think we spent more time coming up with a nickname than Lou did actually playing with the Angels. He appeared in 5 games in 2005, had 5 at-bats, and had no hits. Splendid!

Merloni recently signed a minor-league contract with the gA's, where he'll undoubtedly do nothing.

Hang in There, Ryan

2007-02-06T15:24:00.000-08:00

This sucks...

From the Quakes website.

Rancho Cucamonga Quakes infielder Ryan Leahy has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, The Salem News reported. Leahy, 25, who spent a portion of 2005 and most of 2006 with the Quakes, hit .260 with a homer and 41 RBI in 78 games this past season. The Salem, MA native and Boston College graduate has proven to be popular with fans through his fiery play on the diamond.

There are four forms of thyroid cancer: papillary, follicular, medullary and anaplastic. 91% of the cases of thyroid cancer are papillary and follicular, and are rarely fatal when diagnosed in individuals under the age of 45. In Ryan’s case, he has a cyst on his neck and two more inside his thyroid. Surgery will be performed in the near future to remove the growths.

There is a great chance that Leahy’s cancer will be able to be completely cured and a strong possibility that he will experience little to no cancer-related interruption to his baseball career. As of now, Leahy intends to report to spring training this March with other minor leaguers of the Los Angeles Angels’ organization. Please join the front office staff of the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes in wishing Ryan well, and rooting for his complete recovery. The Quakes have set up a special email: getwellryan@hotmail.com where Quakes fans can send Ryan their regards through his battle.

Your 2007 Opening Day Angels

2007-02-06T14:42:00.000-08:00

Pitchers and catchers arrive in Tempe a week from tomorrow, and I'm itchin' to write something. I figured I would do a little roster prediction and see how close I am when April 2 rolls around.

Projected Lineup
1. Fignuts / 3B

2. Cabfare for Cutie / SS

3. Vlad / RF

4. Night Train / LF

5. GMJ / CF

6. Kenny Howdrick / 2B

7. Che Hillenbrand / DH

8. Mo'Napoli / C

9. Baby Face / 1B

The Bench

Captain Murphy

Mice Hair

Alex Morales

JoMo

Starting Rotation

1. Lackness Monster

2. Magic

3. Lambo

4. The Good Weaver

5. Barry Saunders

*Barcholo on the DL

The 'Pen

Cousin Oliver

Chris Poser

Hector Fiasco

Just Inspire

Doug E. Fresh

Frod

Not bad, but those bats don't scare me too much.

the baseball diaries

2007-02-06T12:06:00.000-08:00

This may already be old news to some of you, but I want to voice my opinion on this.

Dallas McPherson, the bloke the Angels dropped Troy Glaus for, opted to have back surgery, to remove the herniated disk from his back. He is a huge, huge disappointment. Can they just cut him? He's never going to be anything in this league. What a huge waste.

dil8d halo

MLB and NHL join to own part of EPL!

2007-02-02T12:50:00.000-08:00

Tom Hicks, owner of the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Stars has joined Montreal Canadiens owner George Gillett Jr. in the bid to purchase English Premier League powerhouse Liverpool Football Club. After Dubai Sheik Muhamed-something-or-other dropped his take over bid. This I'm glad to see. We don't need any rags buying up the world's storied soccer clubs. The proposed bid is well over the $882 million offer the Sheik was placing. If the deal goes through, these to blokes will become the third owners of a topflight English club, joining The Glazers, who own the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as well as Manchester United, and Randy Lerner owner of the Cleveland Browns and Aston Villa.

Add Bavasi to Your Christmas Card List

2007-01-30T18:08:00.000-08:00

Could there be a worse GM in baseball? Bill Bavasi is doing his best Matt Millen impersonation this offseason. His latest signing? Our buddy ol' pal, Hair Weave, who somehow wrangled $8.325 million out of the Mariners' clueless GM. Just take a look at this rotation and laugh. It's OK.

1. Felix Hernandez (OK, great pitcher. Moving on...)
2. Boingo
3. Weaver
4. Miguel Batista (Better poet than pitcher)
5. Horacio Ramirez (WOW! And who did they trade to get this guy? Rafael Soriano. Brilliant!)

The bottom line is, I'm very happy Weaver is back in the AL West. If the M's don't lead the majors in home runs allowed, I'll be shocked.

TW Hit List - Lou Gehrig

2007-01-23T13:33:00.000-08:00

The Pride of the Yankees. Considering the history and success of the franchise, it is quite an audacious title. But I’ve haven’t read or heard anyone who disputes it. Even decades after his retirement, who can doubt that Gehrig epitomizes the power, style and glory of the great Yankees? At least this is Williams’ opinion. After what we’ve said about Ruth, that he carried baseball on his shoulders in the twenties, what does it say about a man who played at the same time for the same team and emerged as a star in his own right, nearly as popular as Ruth at the time of his retirement? It says that he was one heck of a ballplayer. Lou Gehrig was simply a spectacular hitter and it is possible that no team will ever again have the one-two attack of Ruth and Gehrig.

In a day when they weren’t very many college ballplayers, Gehrig came from Columbia University, on a scholarship in baseball and football. He made it to the big club in 1923, but then did not claim the starting first base job until June 1, 1925, famously playing 2,130 consecutive games through April 30, 1939, a record which stood until Ripken broke it on September 6, 1995. The “Iron Horse” was finally put out of the game by the disease that now claims his name. The man who set a record of durability was defeated by a disease that completely stole his strength. “Man is but a reed, the weakest in nature.” His legend status was sealed by his fateful words spoken on July 4, 1939 to an admiring Yankee Stadium crowd, “Yet today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.”

But Williams puts him at number two for his bat. The year that Ruth hit 60 home runs, it was Gehrig who lead the league in doubles and RBI’s and was voted MVP. He was two-time MVP and won the triple crown in 1934. He still holds the record for most career grand slams with 23. In the 1932 World Series, he hit .529 with three home runs and eight RBIs in only 17 at-bats. His career OPS of 1.080 is second only behind Ruth. He finished with 1,990 RBI’s despite barely breaking 8,000 at-bats, a remarkable RBI every four at-bats. The man was even know for being a very good runner and stole home 15 times in his career. He was a monster at the plate for pitchers, and Williams wonders what it must have been like for an opposing pitcher on a hot afternoon seeing Ruth and Gehrig back-to-back. At the end of it, Gehrig became the first player ever so-honoured by having his number retired by the New York Yankees.

I suspect none would dare speculate that he would be accused of foul play if he played today as “Phil” avers about Ruth in the combox. Phil is likely wrong about Ruth anyway, but who would question Gehrig? His beloved manger, Joe McCarthy, called him “the finest example of a ballplayer, sportsman, and citizen that baseball has ever known.” That was spoken over sixty years ago, but it’s easy to think that Gehrig still holds the title.

the baseball diaries

2007-01-17T10:11:00.000-08:00

"A better world we go to.
Those in time, time times two..."

Yes kids, the cool cat himself, Frankie Rodriguez, signed a one year, $7 million extension with the Angels to avoid arbitration. Frod had a league leading 47 saves last season coupled with a low 1.73 ERA, walking 28 and striking out 98. Yes, I know it sounds like big time money, but hey, I'll take this guy on my team any day! He is awesome without a doubt!

Scot - Doug E Fresh - Shields and Babyface also received contract extensions for one year with One T getting $3.4 million and B'Face cashing in $1.85 million. I for one am glad to see both of these blokes coming back for one more season and hope that Shields fixes whatever ailed him in the season past when he would blow games in massive losses of composure. As for Babyface, he in my humble opinion, is a good bench guy and was pretty clutch when called upon. He'll never have an outrageously productive year, but he plugs away and can fill in at 1st or 3rd with halfway decent defense. Here's to an awesome season!

dil8d halo

"Stars above, stars below.
And what is man...?" -- the Ocean Blue

TW Hit List: Babe Ruth

2007-01-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

Having done with the preliminaries (except for all the stuff I forgot to say which will be interspersed in future posts), we can look at Williams’ top 25. I don’t planning on saying much, so these posts should be fairly short. On the upside, this will hopefully mean I will post one every day.

Number one is, of course, Babe Ruth. Williams goes far enough to say that he was the greatest player of all and cites not only his hitting numbers, but his pitching also time (2.28 career ERA through 140 decisions). But his emphasis is on Ruth’s person and effect on the game. This may have impacted Williams’ choice to make Ruth number one, but then, it needn’t do so. It may very well be that Ruth was the greatest. I’m inclined to agree with Williams that Ruth was at least the greatest hitter to ever play the game. For Teddy, there was and is no debate.

As Williams says, Ruth dwarfed everyone else in the game when he played. And by this, not only are his batting feats meant, but his personality. He almost was baseball for a time. Following the Black Sox scandal, when baseball was allegedly at a low, Ruth rejuvenated the game. And the game came to cater to him. No wonder. The man not only dazzled with the bat, but he was an outrageous personality. He was gregarious, zesty, even charming in a way that possibly only Americans relish and appreciate. And so he was an American star in the great American game.

When the dust settled, Ruth’s 1.163 OPS is the best all-time. His numbers were gaudy when he retired, but they remain nearly so decades after. He is remembered for the 60 home runs in 1927, for the alleged called shot of the 1932 World Series, for the hitting the first home run in All-Star game history, for being the undisputed home run king for years until Aaron finally broke through, for hitting a home run at an all-time best, every 12 at-bats. I doubt anyone will ever be as synonymous with baseball as Babe Ruth. As Williams says, “The diamond heroes of yesterday are still revered and they provide the standards by which the next generation is judged.” Each generation of hitters subsequent to Ruth has played in his shadow.

San Diego Super CHOKERS!

2007-01-14T17:21:00.000-08:00

Slightly pissed right now...

The Luckiest Man Alive

2007-01-10T22:22:00.000-08:00

This makes me sick. Are you freaking kidding me?!?!???!? The Classless One is set to sign a THREE-YEAR deal with the Mets, for $10.8 million. One more reason the hate the Mets, 10.8 million more reasons to hate Schoeneweis. I hope you repeat the wonderful season you had last year, Scotty. That 6.51 ERA was impressive!

Ted Williams' Hit List cont.

2007-01-10T17:19:00.000-08:00

“. . . there is an emotional element at work when people defend their favorite players, and God knows those choices are none the less valid for that.
--Ted Williams

Williams says that in his own career he followed the three golden rules of hitting: (i) get a good pitch to hit; (ii) proper thinking at the plate; (iii) be quick with the bat. But in each of his 25 greatest hitters, these rules are refracted through certain character traits that each of them had in various measures and these Williams calls the five ingredients. These are: Intelligence, Courage, Eyesight, Power, and Timing. Williams lists Intelligence first and he seems to give it the greatest emphasis. After all, someone can have the other four in spades, but if he doesn’t know what to do with them, what good is it? He of course is not speaking of general intelligence or IQ scores. We don’t compare Ruth’s and Mays’ SAT results. He means a sort of intelligence for the game, “baseballic” intelligence. A hitter ought to know his situation. He must consider the pitcher, the count, the ballpark, his own strengths and proclivities. He must be constantly able and willing to adjust. A great talent who does not study his game will not progress as well as the intelligent batter, though he be less talented.

But the great hitters were/are also courageous. Courageous? When I think of courage, I think of the movie, “Braveheart”, but again in a baseball-context, courage is not worrying about the pitcher’s intentions but rather remaining almost religiously focused on getting your pitch. “This ain’t going to stop me!” The great hitters are determined to succeed. And if courage and intelligence seem a bit more ephemeral, the other three are quite tangible and easy to understand. Williams says eyesight can be overrated, but no doubt all great hitters must have good eyesight. If a man can’t see, a man can’t hit. Williams believes power and timing, while partially inherent and/or instinctive, can be nurtured and improved through practice of proper technique. No doubt he is correct, and no doubt he is also right to say that timing is everything to a hitter. The difference between a drive down the line for extra bases and a weak ground-out is a fraction of a second.

So taking these into consideration, how did our faithful guide determine the who’s who? (Again, this book was co-authored by Jim Prime, but I don’t know what he contributed. It usually reads in the first-person. I will only cite Williams’ name going forward for ease of discussion.) As the quote at the top suggests, Williams does not simply wish to dryly cull and analyze statistics. He believes part of the beauty of the game is the subjective elements of fan passion, eyewitnesses, ballpark differences, changes in the game, etc. However, it is clear that statistics are a decisive influence in establishing a standard of achievement for players and so he chose what was called Production (PRO.) when he wrote the book, but we now know and love as OPS. (On base Plus Slugging). OPS has become very popular, especially with the stat-nerds and though I am by constitution anti-stat-geek, I appreciate the statistic. It is very plain and easy to calculate and interpret. Williams shows some prescience here I think. The book was written in 1996. If memory serves, OPS had still not caught on mainstream and was simply a plaything of Pete Palmer and Co., through the stupendous Total Baseball. But Williams states that he thinks it is the best stat to use to conveniently evaluate the hitter’s productive contribution to the game. He also is very favorable toward taking home runs, hits, strikeouts, etc. and normalizing them against at-bats, i.e., dividing these by the number of at-bats so we get a per at-bat measure instead of simply a raw number. He prefers this because he says some hitters were clearly superior but for various reasons did not have nearly the at-bats as others. (One of the big culprits for those players in the 40’s and 50’s was War. Williams himself lost over three full seasons of playing due to time served for Uncle Sam.)

By using OPS and per at-bat measures along with his own personal observations and opinions regarding players and ballparks and the game in general, Williams comes to his list of 25. As mentioned, some big names are not there. And some names are sure to surprise. Next post, we’ll begin with number one.

Ted Williams' Hit List

2007-01-09T17:18:00.000-08:00

"The first pitch, he laid one right in there. I pushed at it. Line drive through the box for a base hit."

In order to break an ugly dry spell, I will be beginning a series I hope to update every other day or so. This will serve at least two purposes: (i) to finally get into the habit of consistently posting on the blog and (ii) to excite myself for the coming baseball season. This blog was started with little fanfare and less hope, but what hope there was, I take at least partial responsibility for stoking the flames. So now, I commit myself to posts of substance in the coming days, and I plan to keep on posting until I stop.

We will be looking very briefly at some of the greatest hitters of the game, based upon the observations of the Splendid Splinter himself, Ted Williams, as found in his book (co-authored): Ted Williams’ Hit List. I’ve chosen this book for the following reasons:

--Terrible Ted was himself one of the greatest hitters of all time.

--The Kid was not just a good hitter in his own right, but he thought about hitting and plainly respected the talents and skills of others. He theorized about hitting.

--Mr. Williams speaks plainly and clearly. I get the distinct sense I would have liked him if I knew him personally.

--The book is a short, easy read and easily translatable into blog-bites.

--I received the book as a gift and figured this would be a good way to use it as I otherwise was likely not going to get around to read it. And what better show of appreciation could I give to the gift’s giver than to highlight the book on our esteemed blog? Especially when I don’t remember who gave me the book, which I would otherwise be ashamed to admit publicly, but I know nobody is reading this anyway.

In Williams’ book, he chooses the 25 best hitters of all time based on his opinion worked around a makeshift statistical system. He makes plain that he is discussing the best 25 hitters, not all-around players. There are some notables that don’t make it, and perhaps we’ll get to talk about them in another post. But for the next post, we’ll discuss his “five ingredients” and mention his statistical preferences. Following that, we’ll begin with number one and work our way through to the end, barring a World War, my death, or the return of the Lord.

We'll see you in Tempehhh!

2007-01-04T18:16:00.000-08:00

The Angels today invited the following players to spring training: pitchers Nick Adenhart, Ryan Aldridge, Nick Green, Marcus Gwyn, Matt Hensley, Tommy Mendoza, Robert Mosebach, Casey Olenberger, Alex Serrano and Matt Wilhite; catchers Tim Duff, Brent Del Chiaro, Ben Johnson and Flint Wipke; infielders Mike Eylward, Sean Rodriguez, Casey Smith, Hanley Statia and Brandon Wood; and outfielders Nathan Haynes, Aaron Peel and Curtis Pride.

Adenhart? Cool. Nick Green? Love the guy. Deaf Cab for Curtis? AGAIN???

Anybody else excited for March 15?

Fat Tire Freed

2007-01-04T18:03:00.000-08:00

I'm glad it happened. And sad at the same time. The Angels designated Chris Bootcheck today, widely referred to as Fat Tire . And by widely I mean the three contributors to this blog. Like Matt Wise, Fat Tire was not given a fair shake in my opinion. Instead, we ran losers like Jason Christiansen, Bret "Fresh" Prinz, Millhouse, Alpha Romero and Sugar Shane Moseley out to the mound. Could I have done a better job? Yes. Could Bootcheck? Most definitely. So check the transactions page in the next couple of days and I guarantee you someone like the Brewers or Dre's picks him up and he's pitching in the majors in 2007. So raise your glasses and toast the man - Fat Tire.

Football of a different sort.

2007-01-04T12:12:00.000-08:00

Yes kids it's Thursday, which marks the return of my soccer update. Of note is Americans Clint Dempsey of the MLS club New England Revolution, and Oguchi Onyewu from Belgian side Standard Liege, were both in talks to move to Fulham of the English Premier League. Fulham currently employs two Americans, Brian McBride and Carlos Bocanegra. Dempsey looks to be on his way there, but 'Gooch couldn't agree on terms with the Cottagers. He is also in talks with AC Milan, so stay tuned...

Knights FC, fully kitted with our new Protestant Orange shirts, take the field tonight after two weeks off. Once again we face the Skallywags, who have beaten us four times. The thought itself makes me sick. Tonight however will be different. We hope to have our best players on the field and we should punish them. Come see Knights FC battle the Skallywags, 7:30 pm at The Theatre of Dreams.

the Templar

Playoff picks. Here. There. Everywhere.

2007-01-04T11:15:00.000-08:00

This should be easy:

Cowboys def. Seahawks
Colts destroy Chefs
Eagles trounce Giants

And the upset of the week:

Jets stun Patriots!

dil8d halo

...And for my next trick; FOOTBALL PICKS!

2006-12-29T12:32:00.000-08:00

Let's see, some of these games mean life or death in the playoff race, so watch with hope, or disdain. Your choice.

Giants def. Redskins
Bengals def. Steelers (Cowher cries, then retires)
Titans def. Patriots (make playoffs!)
Jets def. Raiders (Randy Moss throws a hissy-fit)
Rams def. Vikings
Jaguars def. Chefs (Chefs don't make playoffs)
Bucs def. Seahawks
Cowboys def. Lions (Matt Millen gets lynched)
Texans def. Browns (sorry B)
Saints def. Panthers (go to Super Bowl)
Bolts def. Cards (yawn)
Colts def. Dolphins (zzzzzzz)
Eagles def. Falcons (Jeffe Garcia es en fuego!)
Ravens def. Bills
Packers def. Bears (Favre retires after just barely missing playoffs. Haha)

And my upset of the week:

49ers def. Donkeys, keeping them out of the playoffs! Thinking they have something to prove, the Whiners go into frozen Mile High and punch Jay Cutler in the face. (sorry Welshman, this is how I see it...)

Happy New Year!!!

Giants Eat Baked Zito, Get Sick!

2006-12-28T14:45:00.000-08:00

After signing the for gA's lefty, nausea set in, knowing what a ridiculous thing they just did. I'm just glad the Angels stayed away...

The Football Picks Are Back!

2006-12-22T10:48:00.000-08:00

"What you get is what you need, When you watch the blood but you don't feed..."

Here they are, in all their GLORY!

Last night's game doesn't count. It was a fix. And to top it, Favre threw a touchdown pass. Albeit to the other team, hahahaha!

Chefs def. The Evil
Rams def. Redskins
Browns def. Buccs
Titans def. Bills
Saints def. Gnats
Jaguars def. Patriots
Colts def. Texans
Bears def. Lions (Oh my!)
Falcons def. Panthers
Ravens def. Steelers (How are the Ravens dogs in this game?)
49ers def. Cards (A must win, to say the least.)
Chargers def. Seahawks (To help the 49ers!)
Donkeys def. Bengals (Keeping what little hope there is alive)
Dophins def. Jets

And my upset of the week:

Eagles def. Cowboys! Jeff Garcia emerges from the ashes and leads the "Iggles" into the playoffs!

Dil8d Halo

"You make me feel like the Master of Bourgeois, A man whose life's become illusion" -- New Order

the baseball diaries

2006-12-11T11:46:00.000-08:00

No deals?

So the Angels left the winter meeting with no deals done, which to some that seems ok if you're the type that thinks "nothing gained nothing lost" is good. But how hard did Stoneman try? The "talks" with Atlanta for LaRoche and Colorado for Helton continue, but seem to be going nowhere fast. Stoneman is so in love with keeping his pitchers that it's blinding him! The fact is the Angels need bats and they need them badly. And not from the free-agent market where it will cost a fortune and could be a bust; case in point Gary Matthews Jr. I hope I and everybody else that thinks this deal is a dud in the making are WRONG! I know we have a ton of time before spring training, but give us some hope that this season will be awesome. Please. The fans need it!

dil8d halo

Giants leaps!

2006-12-04T13:57:00.000-08:00

The last two games played by Knights FC were superlative. after being handled in the first match vs. Veteranos, the Knights earned their first league points on the level with a hard faught 7-7 draw. Disappointing was the fact that the equalizer was given up by the Knights with only about two minutes from time. However, last week was monumental! Having been beaten on the two previous occations by the Retired Athletes, Knights FC rose to this occasion, taking almost every chance to exact a convincing 11-3 victory! Our hats are tipped to Andrew for being a BAD-ASS in every sence of the word and scoring five of the goals!

This Thursday will be a defining moment when we face the Skallywags for the fourth time. They have beaten us in close matches all three times before and I hope that this will be the day we get revenge. Though Andrew will not be there... we may be in big trouble...

The Templar

Adam Kennedy = The Man

2006-11-28T19:58:00.000-08:00

Simply put, Adam Kennedy is one of my all-time favorite Angels. What's not to like about the guy? His upper-cut swing? He's a gamer, a fighter, a clutch hitter, and the best defensive second baseman the Angels have had in years. And years. He is also responsible for one of my favorite Angels memories. Game 5 of the 2002 ALCS. Three home runs. I was there to see it. It gave me chills. I wish him well as he heads off to the Cardinals, where he will join Eck and Sleazio. See you in the '07 World Series, AK.

less hip than bo jackson

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

TW Hit List - Al Simmons

TW Hit List - Tris Speaker

TW Hit List - Mickey Mantle

TW Hit List - Hank Greenberg

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

Game 1 ramblings

How 'bout them Rockies?!

What's Say We Actually Beat Boston This Time?

Couldn't Have Happened to a Bigger Idiot

the baseball diaries

Football Picks!

Gotta Love It!

the baseball diaries

Football Picks!!!

Cleveland, Colts, & Complaining

Connie Mack-attack, etc.

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

Future Cranks?

the baseball diaries

Thoughts on the Mega-Rich and not so Mega-Rich

The work is done but the spirit remains

TW Hit List - Willie Mays

the baseball diaries *in game report*

the baseball diaries

I once blogged a dream

If you blog it, they will lose. . .

Drive-by blogging

Sosa hits 600th. Hilton still in jail.

The King of Sweden it will not irk . . .

the baseball diaries

TW Hit List - Hank Aaron

the baseball diaries

Pitch Speeds

TW Hit List - Joe Jackson

the baseball diaries

Meet the 2007 JC Romero!

Association Football

Yes, there is a place called Splott

TW Hit List - Stan Musial

Knights FC!

dil8d halo Hit List - "The Ty Cobb of the Federal League"

TW Hit List - Ty Cobb

the baseball diaries

the baseball diaries

Clean Sweep!

not to be forgotten. . . .

Game 2 Hero - Vladdy

the baseball diaries

Game 1 Hero - Just Inspire

TW Hit List - Joe DiMaggio

2007 ANGELS NICKNAME KEY

You Know What To Do, Lackey...

the baseball diaries *spring training edition*

Springtime Musings

Worthy Thoughts About Worthless Angels

TW Hit List - Rogers Hornsby

I Love (Spring Training) Opening Day

Got Wood?

Our Youngest Blogger...

The Beautiful Game

Weird...

TW Hit List - Jimmie Foxx

Quakes Opening Day!

Lew Burdette 1926-2007

Worthy Thoughts About Worthless Angels

Hang in There, Ryan

the baseball diaries in game report

the baseball diaries spring training edition