The World Baseball Classic
by Grant on Mar 10, 2009 1:07 PM PDT
509 comments
It wasn’t that I was skeptical about the World Baseball Classic, it’s just that I didn’t care. It’s like when "National Treasure 2" came out; I didn’t care enough to think, man, that’s going to be a stinker. I knew I would never see it. If I were on a 15-hour plane flight, I knew that I would rather play cloud bingo for 14 hours than watch it. Why even work up an opinion on it?
At least, that’s how I felt a month ago. Before that, there were whispers that Tim Lincecum might pitch for the U.S.A., which horrified me. Lincecum is our golden boy. Sorry, country. I don’t want Lincecum to pitch for anyone but the Giants. Ever. I don’t care if it’s Team USA in the WBC, Team USA in the Olympics, or the Yogi Yahooeys in the Laff Olympics. Lincecum does not commit team infidelities. Once he was out, though, my horror moved quickly to indifference.
So I can’t believe how into this thing I am. I cracked out on it all day Saturday, and my DVR has handled the rest of the load. Last night, I watched the entire game between South Africa and Mexico live. Back in January, I would have set the odds of that happening at 100 to never. One of the common complaints about the WBC is that teams like the Netherlands, Italy, and South Africa drag down the level of competition. But watching South Africa last night was a treat. For one, they’re a ridiculously young team. One of the pitchers in last night’s game was 16. It’s interesting from a prospect hound’s perspective. Gift Ngoepe hit two triples last night – dude can fly – and I was hoping the Giants had a scout there. Alas, the Pirates already have him under contract.
It is a little silly that players can play for a country even if they’re only tangentially affiliated with the country. Team Italy is probably the worst offender , but even the Italian team has a healthy number of players from the professional Italian leagues. I can deal with the lackadaisical eligibility requirements if it helps Italy or China field a team that can hang around for nine innings.
I love watching Yu Darvish pitch. I’m geeked on a lineup that features David Wright, Curtis Granderson, and Brian McCann possibly facing a pitching staff of Edinson Volquez, Johnny Cueto, and Pedro Martinez. It’s fun to watch Adrian Gonzalez demolish pitchers when he isn’t wearing a brown and yellow uniform, or whatever the Padres are wearing nowadays.
I’m in. This thing is fun.
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Confession: I haven’t watched one WBC game yet.
by xanthan on Mar 10, 2009 1:15 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Though, I hear the Asian players are very efficient!
by xanthan on Mar 10, 2009 1:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
They can take a watch, turn into a TV, and then back into a watch again.
by Grant on Mar 10, 2009 1:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thank you, Mr. White.
Hector Sanchez: learning to play defense from older brother Jackson Williams.
by tedfordfan on Mar 10, 2009 2:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well-meaning racism is the funniest kind.
by Grant on Mar 10, 2009 3:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s a great contrast to the fiery cuban team
by lincypoo i wuv u on Mar 10, 2009 9:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stop making fun of their red pants.
They say some players get out of bed hitting; Pablo Sandoval doesn't wait that long
by bgunn on Mar 11, 2009 10:24 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Red Pants>Blue Pants
Giant Dirtbags: Brian Anderson, Todd Jennings, Steve Hammond, John Bowker
Don't F with the Affeldt
by Giant among Angels on Mar 11, 2009 9:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This, except I’ve only watched a few bits of games. Typically when I watch it’s just the announcers going, “WOW DID YOU SEE THAT YANKEES/RED SOX PLAYER MAKE THAT PLAY?!!!!!? *jizz *”
The Basil Fawlty Moderating Strategy:
"We could run a nice blog here if we didn't have all these members getting in the way."
by WalrusMan on Mar 10, 2009 3:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In all of it that I have seen the announcers seem to spend more time promoting the event than actually discussing the game. They talk endlessly about how great it is, how seriously everybody takes it, or what a massive unbelievable surprising exciting upset one of the games was, I heard one announcer say the Netherlands beating the Dominican is “one of the greatest upsets ever in any international sport!” which is obviously a ridiculous thing to say about the result of one single baseball game.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I’m getting sick of the announcers, but I’m loving the games. The Netherlands gets the D.R. out in the 7th and the dude almost has a stroke from orgasm. As if upsets never happen. It’s not even upset yet, it’s 0-0.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 5:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
cmon
that was pretty effing unbelieveable. The fact that they even hung with the DR, much less beat them twice.
by bondslegend on Mar 10, 2009 9:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely
But that has nothing to do with my opinion of the announcers.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 10:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some guys on ESPN radio were going off about how incredible it was that Denmark upset the Dominicans.
by Ltisme on Mar 11, 2009 12:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well that is quite an achievement considering the Danes didn’t field a team for the tournament. Further, all I can glean from the Danish national baseball website is that they play more softball than baseball.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 11, 2009 9:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This
I’m like grant in the first paragraph. It’s just too meh for me.
by bondslegend on Mar 10, 2009 3:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I watched both Netherland games. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. I also watch the second US game. Some entertaining games. I must admit that I got joy out of beating Chavezs team after all the complaining he made about MLB not allowing some players to play.
Minor White > Ansel Adams
by say hey nation on Mar 10, 2009 1:22 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I was on the edge of my seat because with Puerto Rico down to the Netherlands 1-0 in the 8th inning (or whatever late game inning it was) I thought we were close to getting Sanchez back. Now that Puerto Rico has advanced (and yet still has to play some stupid meaningless game for “seeding purposes”) God knows how long we have lost him for.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 1:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eh. It’s fun I guess. I won’t go out of my way to watch it. If I’m watching T.V. already and it’s on I’ll turn to it for sure though.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 1:22 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I laughed my ass off when I saw Ponson was the Dutch's #1 pitcher
somehow, though, they managed to beat the Dominicans. This thing has the potential to grab me, it just hasn’t done so yet. I think once we get out of the first round I might have to set the Tivo.
STEVE HOLM! refuses to be the odd man out.
by UnleashTheGore on Mar 10, 2009 1:29 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Seeing Ponson in that game me that “wait wtf” feeling. That’s what got me to watch. Then I realized that they had a chance to win and kept watching. Which was cool because I got to see Schoop for the first time.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 1:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you know, I haven’t been watching it.
I ought to fix that.
Matt Cain: He'll save children, but not the Dodger children.
PABLO SANDOVAL AM STEAL DEATH, DESTROYER OF WORLDS.
by jponry on Mar 10, 2009 1:30 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I consider it a legitimate event for wagering purposes
which means that it has surpassed the NBA in my mind. I took the over 11.5 in tonight’s Cuba vs. Australia game and plan to take the over in pretty much every game played in Mexico City in that stadium that makes Coors Field look pitcher friendly.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 1:31 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I didn't think I'd be interested
And then I watched Netherlands proceed to giving a smack down to P.R. (I don’t envy them the rematch).
Also, it made the weekend where my die-hard Dodger fan of an Uncle-in-law was coming to visit MUCH more palatable. We actually found common ground rooting for the Dutch, which was a bit of a surprise I can tell you…..
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2009 1:35 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The South Africa v. Mexico game somehow found its way into my living room last night as well… I am not popular domestically right now.
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2009 1:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Using the term “smack down” a little loosely.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 1:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was certainly a slap in the face – it so far exceeded my expectations (and the play of the D.R. fell so far below them), that I made the call.
It’s good to know pro wrestling jargon has nuance though.
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really like the concept
and just from watching the highlights, the crowds are great, playoff-like even. And who would have put money on 42,000 Canadians showing up to watch baseball in early March?
It’s the execution that needs work, meaning the wreaking havoc on Spring Training, and then the late season start, and then the World Series stretching into November. Not sure what the scheduling solution is, but this isn’t it.
My plans for 2009: getting married and attending Tim Lincecum Bobblehead Day.
by Kitspool on Mar 10, 2009 1:37 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I wanted to watch the Asian bracket but since they live in the future, it wasn’t possible. I hope I can see Korea and Japan play in the next round though. I got to see Panama face DR, but the commentary team made me drift in and out of conciousness.
by Natto on Mar 10, 2009 1:40 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Natto, you’re Asian. Do you live in the future? If so, you could make a killing betting on games before they happen.
My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman
by Goofus on Mar 10, 2009 2:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually he’s black, if you haven’t read.
The Basil Fawlty Moderating Strategy:
"We could run a nice blog here if we didn't have all these members getting in the way."
by WalrusMan on Mar 10, 2009 3:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think they prefer the term African American of East Asian descent.
..so allow me to present Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain as two sweet, sweet bottles of warming hooch.
by Cookyman on Mar 10, 2009 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Go Team Kim Chee!!!
First Olympic Gold, next the WORLD!!
Tommy Lasorda HATES GIANTSBOARD.COM
by merkin on Mar 11, 2009 1:17 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tay Haminguk! < /bad_phoenetics >
They say some players get out of bed hitting; Pablo Sandoval doesn't wait that long
by bgunn on Mar 11, 2009 10:26 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
WBC is alive and well
Most Americans are as interested in the WBC as they are with soccer. Would hope more of the better players from each country would represent their countries.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 1:42 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The talent level has seemed to have gotten a boost especially with China and the Netherlands.
Sergio Romo will gladly hand you a bench to sit on / GIANTSPACE™ / Adopted brother of the AnVil
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2009 1:43 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I was on board the second the event was announced in 2005. Still, both tournaments have surpassed my expectations and entertainment threshold. I’m really impressed to see that most of the teams in the tournament have been playing at least competitive baseball. We all knew South Africa would get blown out by Cuba, but to only lose by seven runs and finish the whole game? For a team of mostly teenagers avoiding a mercy rule loss to one of the best teams in the world? That’s pretty big for them right there. Of course I had to pick Mexico over RSA last night, but I was happy to see the team nobody even knows plays baseball hanging in.
Those crowds in the San Juan pool look like so much fun. I really wanted to get there for pool play and dance in the stands with the horns and the drums. The next one is 2013, the year after I graduate from college. By then I should be a full-fledged member of the media and if I’m not covering the WBC in some capacity…I will have failed at life.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 1:44 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
“I was on board the second the event was announced in 2005.”
+1
Haven't been to The Examined Life? No wonder your life feels so empty.
"I been waitin' a long time for this! I been waitin' since the f**kin' amateurs!" --WILL "THE THRILL" CLARK
by Josh from Hollywood on Mar 10, 2009 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Booooo!
It’s a trick! They’ve scheduled it right when we’re all still starved-to-death for baseball – but DURING spring training.
I’m with Hal Bodley against the World Baseball Classic -
“Maybe I’m missing something, or too much a purist, but why does baseball need a world cup or the World Baseball Classic as it’s going to be called? Spring training is a sacred time on baseball’s calendar, but now the best players are going to be flitting around the globe, representing their countries in this world affair. Will winning this be more important than a World Series title? I hope not.”
Where should the Giants star players be at this time – (a) at spring training working together to become a better team OR (b) at the world baseball classic with strange teamates and managers who don’t give a fig for how their use of our players affects our ballclub?
“If I were a manager or a general manager, I’d be concerned about the impact the tournament will have on spring training. Players could be lost to their teams for nearly three weeks, although MLB insists it’s more like two weeks. Spring training is vitally important for getting players ready for the season.”
More important that any worldwide Bud Selig promotional tour.
“Plus, the World Baseball Classic will be a tremendous burden on pitchers. In fact, that will probably prompt organizers to limit the number of pitches they can throw in a game.”
Ban all Giants pitchers from ever playing in the WBC, and then I’ll be cool with it.
“Players chosen for the tournament will practice together for two or three days before the competition begins. How can they become a team in such a short period of time?”
Because they’re such great all-star players – like I give a sh**, our players should be at our spring training.
“Picture this: Randy Johnson starts for the USA, injures his left arm and is finished for the season. That is the type of risk this tournament provides. ‘Give it a chance,’ said Selig. ‘I don’t think all the changes we’ve made have taken away from the game at all. And this won’t either.’”
Even if Lincecum and Johnson aren’t there this year, what about next year? If this thing keeps going, SF players are going to leave spring training and risk injuries playing in this crap.
Like I said, ban just Giants players from participating, and I’ll be cool with it. I don’t even like our guys playing the Olympics for pete’s sake, aren’t we still figuring out if the last Olympics have cost us Schierholtz?
I feel like a kid that doesn’t want to share with the rest of the world. Well, so what? The world has soccer, they don’t need to be taking our players in some f-ed up system where our guys & best interests are not in charge. I call BS.
"Those boos really motivate me to make something happen." - Bonds
by Persiflage on Mar 10, 2009 1:52 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Lincecum has already said as of right now, he won’t be in the next one (link). Johnson will be like 48 or 49 the next time it rolls around, so he probably will be retired.
From what I have seen, the starter are only going out there for a few innings. I think Peavy pitched like 3 innings in the first game. I haven’t been around a TV for any of the games yet, but do want to watch.
by CrispinGloversBalls on Mar 10, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Other teams are sending their players out there too, players of equal or better caliber to what we would ever send so uh, who gives? Even looking at this event purely from a team point of view your point makes no sense.
I only have a signature because I recognize everyone else by their sigs, not their usernames..
by lmaozedong on Mar 10, 2009 2:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Will winning this be more important than a World Series title? I hope not."
Why not? And who cares?
"If I were a manager or a general manager, I’d be concerned about the impact the tournament will have on spring training. Players could be lost to their teams for nearly three weeks, although MLB insists it’s more like two weeks. Spring training is vitally important for getting players ready for the season."
It’s not like they’re going to a three week Raptor Jesus camp. They’re going to play baseball.
"Plus, the World Baseball Classic will be a tremendous burden on pitchers. In fact, that will probably prompt organizers to limit the number of pitches they can throw in a game."
They already have. And really, I love how Hal gives this as an example of a problem, but then shows how it can be easily fixed. Then what are you complaining about?
"Players chosen for the tournament will practice together for two or three days before the competition begins. How can they become a team in such a short period of time?"
Who cares?
"Picture this: Randy Johnson starts for the USA, injures his left arm and is finished for the season. That is the type of risk this tournament provides.
If pitchers are put on a strict pitch-count, why should they get injured? How is this different from a ST game?
..so allow me to present Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain as two sweet, sweet bottles of warming hooch.
by Cookyman on Mar 10, 2009 3:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This guy is stupid
I don’t look to baseball writers for actual reasons why something is wrong or right, because they are all utterly incapable of giving any in a thoughtful and reasonable way. I’ve always disliked the WBC for the same reason: it just seems made up to me. I can’t get too excited about something that seems completely arbitrary. But hey, it’s definitely fun to see some stacked lineups and this year’s upsets have been very interesting.
I’m not screaming from the rooftops thinking it shouldn’t happen, and have no grudge against anyone who likes it, but I just fail to really see a point in it.
by bondslegend on Mar 10, 2009 3:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I meant the writer is stupid, not Persiflage!
by bondslegend on Mar 10, 2009 3:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How is it any more arbitrary (perhaps ‘forced’ is a better word here), than any other international sporting competition?
Adoptive Parent of Francisco Peguero. He can throw, he can run, he can hit(fastballs), and he's Dominican. What else do you need to know?
by haverecords on Mar 10, 2009 9:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the word you all are looking for is "contrived."
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 9:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It just seemed to come out of nowhere. I think everyone was pretty happy with the way baseball was, and then all of the sudden it’s like “we have to have this thing where a bunch of countries will play! And you should care about it! Because! We want more money!”
IDK it just felt forced. I guess any “new” thing is going to feel that way, but I don’t see why we need it. If we’re going to have it,. I like mayor’s idea of putting it in november. More than anything, I just want to be thinking about the Giants and their spring training, not worrying about their players going off to some international competition. I know not a lot of Giants are playing in the WBC (1?), but it’s just weird to think of teams having to lose their players to this thing right before the season starts.
But whatev, we’ve got it and there’s not much my bitching will do about it. The Netherlands win was one of the more exciting thing’s I’ve seen for awhile, so maybe the thing doesn’t need to make sense to be a compelling watch.
by bondslegend on Mar 10, 2009 9:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe this is because baseball in the Olympics is no more?
by Merope on Mar 11, 2009 6:36 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sitting and watching the MLB, we (as Giants fans) may have been happy, but I think a lot of baseball fans are pumped to see national team play. Likewise a lot of fans of national teams are happy to see a baseball version of their country.
For the Giants fan, of course it came out of nowhere, we were happy (or at least focused) on our little corner of the sporting universe. From a baseball executive perspective I can see tons of appeal, starting with the fact that foreign born players should soon overtake American born players in the America (+1 Canada) baseball league. I think they want to harness that tide and promote the game around the world. And they have an audience now – they win in the short run and win in the long run. And we as Giants fans get to root for Schoop, even if it just means hoping for under 5 strikeouts a game, and as baseball fans we get to enjoy baseball in a non-Giants-way, without picking a “second favorite” team ( a habit i can’t get behind ) or watching some other MLB teams or somehow following another league (independent or abraod).
co-dad of IshikaBOOM w/AfDC.
Ishikawa, let the boy hit against lefties.
by kennv on Mar 11, 2009 7:35 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
guess so
It is less xenophobic on my end to think of the rest of the world- they don’t really care that much about American baseball, but if they get to see these guys playing for their country, then it’s something completely different.
by bondslegend on Mar 11, 2009 9:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The world series is made up
There was no parting of the skies where God touched a pitchers mound and the world series was created. it was made up as a promotional tool for a failing baseball industry.
Look at the crowds out there. While Americans don’t care about the WBC for the most part, other countries are crazy about it. Stan Javier is the Dominican GM and he said he wouldn’t do it again due to the pressure put on him by the people of the Domincan Republic. And that was before either loss to the Netherlands.
We’ll get embarrassed in the WBC one year, just like USA Basketball did in the olympics, and it will wake us up. The WBC is a huge success, regardless of if you’re watching or if the talk radio hosts care. In 2013 they’re discussing expanding to 24 teams with qualifying to take place in the years leading up to the WBC. This is going to be on the lines of the World cup. What is there to not like about international competition?
by CalGoldenBear on Mar 11, 2009 2:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
We as in “USA”?
Didn’t we get embarrassed in 2006?
Woo!
Charlie Hayes ate my homework
by glenallen hill's waterpipe on Mar 11, 2009 3:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Opposing the WBC just because you are afraid it will hurt your team is a slap in the face of the game. At least you admit you’re a kid who doesn’t want to share.
“Will winning this be more important than a World Series title? I hope not.”
Ok, not your quote, but you agreed with it. Is there something wrong with having more baseball that counts for something? Why do the World Series and MLB have to feel threatened by the WBC? Anybody who truly cares about baseball should love both of them – because they are both important for different reasons.
by kurosawatadao on Mar 27, 2009 11:33 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Succinct counterpoint to Persiflage.
My plans for 2009: getting married and attending Tim Lincecum Bobblehead Day.
by Kitspool on Mar 10, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it's cool
It’s great to get exciting baseball early in March. Spring training is anti climactic and most spring training “position” battles are decided before they even take the field in spring.
Seeing the highlights from that Canada-USA game where Phillipe Aumont got out of a bases loaded jam in a 1 run game was pretty exciting.
by Hobbes2d on Mar 10, 2009 2:04 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
At this point, I don’t care about it. I might if I started watching games, but probably won’t because the last thing I need is something else to care about.
My adopted Giant: "Raptor Jesus" Guzman
by Goofus on Mar 10, 2009 2:23 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm in too
It would be wonderful if this could be done in a way where more players were involved and were in mid season form. But since that is pretty much impossible, I’m fine with settling for this.
by moonman on Mar 10, 2009 2:54 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
WBC > Spring Training
I love these tournaments. I’ve watched about ten games so far, and plan to keep watching until it’s over. There’s some great plays, great intensity, and real surprises. The players are into it, and that makes it fun to watch.
Bud had a great idea with this. I think it’ll continue to grow in importance and popularity in the future.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 3:16 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree it will grow
The improvement in quality of talent in just the last 3 years is obvious. MLB Academies around the world are obviously paying off, and the various teams are attracting their country’s better athletes. As that trend continues and they get more experience, the quality of play will just keep getting better. And thus I think interest & popularity will grow.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 3:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Your take sounds suspiciously like mine.
/site pimp
Haven't been to The Examined Life? No wonder your life feels so empty.
"I been waitin' a long time for this! I been waitin' since the f**kin' amateurs!" --WILL "THE THRILL" CLARK
by Josh from Hollywood on Mar 10, 2009 3:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great fun.
Like the Baron, I was in from the moment of the announcement. Went to AZ in 2006 to see the games in Scottsdale Stadium. GREAT fun.
This year, the talent is even better. NED v PUR last night was a GREAT game! Edge-of-seat kind of stuff because it’s a great story: plucky little dyke-pluggers coming in against a full-fledged MLB team from Puerto Rico… and leads them 1-0 until the bottom of the 8th! GREAT stuff. The great human drama stuff.
I would strongly recommend doing it in November, when professional players are already mostly in shape and the consequences of any injuries would be lessened or eliminated. Intelligent venues can be selected for that time of year (such as San Juan, Skydome, Mex City, Tokyo Dome for first round, and SD/LA/SF/PHX for the latter two rounds).
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 3:17 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree RE: November. I think baseball would be better served keeping interest in their sport going after the WS, rather than holding it during a time when everyone’s excited for baseball anyways.
by bondslegend on Mar 10, 2009 3:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
… and leads them 1-0 until the bottom of the 8th! And then loses! What a story!
It’s another great Disney sports movie waiting to happen.
I agree that the timing is pretty bad. Bring a bunch of players together while they are still rusty and have them compete? Nah. If they wait until after the season that takes away a lot of people’s terrible arguments against the WBC.
How about every few years an extended all-star break where this tournament replaces the all-star game? I think I might like the idea if they fit the games into a week and a half or so.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 4:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't like it mid-season
MLB is really what baseball is all about (for me, anyway), and I wouldn’t want some lesser thing to disrupt the flow of the season and fatigue (my team’s) players for something that doesn’t get the Giants to the World Series. I don’t even like the All Star Game for that same reason— anything that takes us off task for getting to the WS is not ok with me.
The other issue is a practical one: given all the locations on earth for the first round, i.e., they would have to have a round played in Asia, there would be no way to put the whole tournament in a 10-day span and still allow teams a fair chance to travel and recover from time zone shifts from Asia. So that means it will be weeks, plural, and even more disruptive to MLB. It’s pointless.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 5:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can see why you don’t like it. Any proposed timeframe is going to have people who don’t like it.
Good point. With the current set up would take way too long. They would have to have all the games played close together. Which means other nations couldn’t see their teams play in person. They could move the venue to a different part of the world every time like the World Cup or Olympics maybe.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
OR, and I'm just thinkin' out loud here, maybe NOT PLAY IT DURING THE MLB SEASON.
But yes, you’re right that there will be people who don’t like any particular choice. But the guide should be what would make the WBC flourish the most and damage MLB the least. I hope the people in charge of WBC will do it in the fall/winter next time.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 9:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think interest in the WBC will be helped by putting it after the season. By then the majority of fans will be ready for a break from baseball and have no desire to watch more games. Especially if they have less importance than the playoffs and World Series which just finished.
I think the main reason I’ve payed any attention to the games this time around is because they’re the first real games of the year. They don’t have a whole lot of importance to me, but at least the teams are competing. I don’t know if that’s the case for a lot of people and I’m not sure if mid-season will create more interest or not.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 10:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I saw most of the games at Petco in 2006 and it was one of the best baseball atmospheres I’ve ever experienced, and that includes some playoff games and heated regular season match ups. I plan on going to a couple of games in SD this year, and might try and make it up to Dodger stadium for the finals. It’s really something else when you’re surrounded by Korean fans chanting in unison or Dominican Republic fans dancing in their seats with one out in the first inning. Love, love, love it.
My main problem with the WBC this time around are the TV announcers. I have watched more than a couple of games where the announcers sound bored or confused about what’s going on and who is playing, or if its a game with some name MLBers, they fixate on those guys exclusively. Especially egregious on the broadcasters’ part is when they start talking about baseball in the most remedial terms; last night they explained that a reliever was doing long toss in the pen to loosen up his shoulder before stepping up to the rubber to take some pitches, but don’t worry fans, that’s typical and perfectly normal. What percentage of people watching don’t know this? Or couldn’t figure it out on their own?
I have no strong thoughts on what time of year they should do it, though I understand why they do it in Spring Training. I can’t see a lot of guys wanting to play during the All-Star break (when they can get some precious days off or contract bonuses playing in the game) or after the season when they’re weary and more prone to be nursing injuries. (Or, just sick of playing baseball and traveling, and wanting to get back to their families.) Spring just seems like the perfect time; they’re playing games anyway, why not make them count toward something?
Proud parent of Gerald Posey.
by GiantsFanInExile on Mar 10, 2009 3:28 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Here is why not spring:
Spring is when MLB teams need to evaluate talent, prepare for a season, gel, practice together, etc. Losing players to the WBC inhibits that. Also, as we are seeing this year, it is pushing MLB’s Opening Day to April 7 and thus the World Series into November— did you see the weather problems in Philadelphia in late October last year? Push that thing another week, and even more northern tier cities start having problems. (Yes, you could argue that Selig should have just had MLB Opening Day at the regular time, but he is an employee of the owners, and the teams must think they need that time in spring training for some useful purpose.)
November, on the other hand, means that MOST MLB players will have had a month off to nurse injuries, and all but the two WS teams will have had a couple or 3 weeks off. With 16 WBC teams, we are not talking about a huge percentage of MLB players anyway. And if a MLB player is injured during the WBC, it could be catastrophic to a MLB team if it happened in March, but much less risky if it happened in November.
As to being “sick of playing baseball and traveling, and wanting to get back to their families,” nobody is MAKING them play on a WBC team; it’s their choice. If they would prefer to have the time off, they can. If they would like to play, they can if they’re invited.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 4:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You’d be adding to pitchers’ workload, though.
..so allow me to present Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain as two sweet, sweet bottles of warming hooch.
by Cookyman on Mar 10, 2009 4:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wouldn't that happen no matter when the WBC is held?
I have forgotten who it was, but there were a couple of pitchers in 2006 who said their MLB seasons were hurt by pitching in the WBC that spring.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 4:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, because pitchers pitch anyway in March. If they’re in the WBC, they pitch there, if they’re not, they pitch in ST.
..so allow me to present Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain as two sweet, sweet bottles of warming hooch.
by Cookyman on Mar 10, 2009 4:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. If WBC were in early March as it is now, then pitchers would have to start in January instead of February.
The pitching they do in March in spring training is not the pitching they would do in tournament play in March. They would still have to start preparing earlier, thus adding to the workload.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 4:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. If WBC were in early March as it is now, then pitchers would have to start in January instead of February.
Did Sanchez start pitching in January?
..so allow me to present Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain as two sweet, sweet bottles of warming hooch.
by Cookyman on Mar 10, 2009 4:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably
My understanding is that the guys who planned to pitch in WBC did start pitching earlier than usual, and as I recall (and am admitting laziness in not looking up Chronicle archives now), Giants pitchers showed up in mid-Feb in unusually good form. I didn’t look at other teams reactions on the first day of pitchers-and-catchers, but would be surprised if it were isolated to the Giants. It doesn’t make any sense that if you intend to pitch in a tournament the first week of March that you wouldn’t pitch until 2 weeks before it.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 4:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He started before everyone else. I saw a couple reports in February that said he was ahead of the other pitchers because he started throwing earlier.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 4:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh. Touché.
..so allow me to present Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain as two sweet, sweet bottles of warming hooch.
by Cookyman on Mar 10, 2009 5:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
“I don’t care if it’s Team USA in the WBC, Team USA in the Olympics, or the Yogi Yahooeys in the Laff Olympics.”
It’s “Laff-A-Lympics”, Grant.
A small mistake, and yet, just like that, you’ve now lost all credibility with me.
Also, no discussion of the Laff-A-Lympics is complete without examining the sad case of Grape Ape, quite possibly the greatest underachiever is the history of sport.
Think about it: The guy is 50 times bigger than all the other competitors and he can crush them in the palm of his hand, yet he never dominated like it seemed he should. I don’t care how dirty the Really Rottens played, there’s no excuse for some of his lackluster performances. I mean, how do you lose a race when one of your strides equals like 1,000 of everybody else’s?
Maybe everything just came to easily to him. Maybe he was distracted by his fame — the money, the women, the drugs. Or maybe he just lacked that killer instincts all athletes need to be great. But whatever the reason, Grape Ape just had too many tools to not be great. He makes Ruben Rivera look like a focused overachiever.
Haven't been to The Examined Life? No wonder your life feels so empty.
"I been waitin' a long time for this! I been waitin' since the f**kin' amateurs!" --WILL "THE THRILL" CLARK
by Josh from Hollywood on Mar 10, 2009 3:33 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The Square-Cube Law is a bitch…
Fred Lewis can stand under my umbrella.
31 May 2007, 21:38 EST - the last time Matteh's career W-L wasn't below.500
We are at war with Los Angeles. We have always been at war with Los Angeles.
by S.F. Giangst on Mar 11, 2009 7:07 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The bottom line of this post?
Don’t give up on National Treasure 2.
Also known to haunt as theghostoftravisdenker and theaccidentalghostofsergioromo.
by theghostofjasonellison on Mar 10, 2009 3:38 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
It was…ok.
The Basil Fawlty Moderating Strategy:
"We could run a nice blog here if we didn't have all these members getting in the way."
by WalrusMan on Mar 10, 2009 4:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Would you say it was the cinematic equivalent of Steve Kline?
Adoptive father to the All-Father. Does that make me the All-Grandfather?
by EliminateMe on Mar 10, 2009 4:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
True story
My fiancee and I were eating lunch at a restaurant across from St. Paul’s Cathedral in London a few summers ago when they were filming a scene for National Treasure 2. It took multiple hours and dozens and dozens of extras, crew members, cameras, lights…all for a car chase that, apparently, didn’t even make the final cut of the film. That’s when I realized why action movies cost $100 million to produce.
My plans for 2009: getting married and attending Tim Lincecum Bobblehead Day.
by Kitspool on Mar 10, 2009 5:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
They were just trying to impress your girlfriend.
It was never going to be in the movie.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 5:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Make it COUNT
Home field advantage in the World Series to the team with a player whose team finished highest in the WBC!
Leading the Pro-Aaron Rowand contingent on the McC!
You can ridicule me in 2009 if you like...
by ThrillisGone22 on Mar 10, 2009 3:56 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I love it
watched as much over the weekend as I could and I want to catch as more of the rest as I can. Obviously the schedule is a little funky, but I agree it’s the best time for now. I don’t care about players missing a few weeks of camp. I only wish the MLB players were a little more game-ready when this thing started.
Still defending Rich Aurilia, and the Niners' classic unis
by wjackalope on Mar 10, 2009 4:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I want to catch as more of the rest as I can.
That’s one of the worst sentences I’ve ever composed.
Still defending Rich Aurilia, and the Niners' classic unis
by wjackalope on Mar 10, 2009 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm IN
Somehow missed the Netherlands/D.R. game – but since that time have been locked in big time.
Last evenings Netherlands/PR game was, as noted above, absolutely edge-of-your-seat excitement. Was watching it in a bar next to an Englishman (who perhaps enjoys a good tourney) and asked if the UK had a team. It’s just awesome to have a World-Wide tourney that the U.S. has a stake in…same guy: “Shouldn’t you guys be running away with this thing?” – I had to explain. ;-)
The Korea/Japan game on Sunday night I tivo’d and watched it last night knowing the outcome already. WOW. They play a wonderful style of baseball – very crisp, quick, and entertaining. The antithesis of A.L. Baseball in my opinion.
It is a big treat and something I will look forward to every 3 years for certain.
Charlie Hayes ate my homework
by glenallen hill's waterpipe on Mar 10, 2009 4:32 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The cultural differences are one of the most interesting things to see in WBC.
The Asian teams play with a focus on execution, on technical precision, with discipline. The Caribbean and South/Central America teams play with exuberant athleticism brain-dead swinging at slop nightly with no focus on technical precision (except pitchers). The North American teams are kind of right in the middle of that scale. It is endlessly interesting to see the different styles. Can’t wait for the next round to see more of the styles collide.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 4:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
… and they keep showing the Lincecum commercial which is awesome!
by krazybalr on Mar 10, 2009 4:42 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I know that I for one, can see that at least several hundred more times without getting tired of it!
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 5:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I also like the Taco Bell one. "Dude, drag?" "NACHO drag!"
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 5:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like seeing guys who play in other countries’ leagues. It’s a pretty cool scouting opportunity for the teams, too.
As Grant mentioned, some teams go a little too far with the distant relations. And some of the games feel more like “MLB players compete for bragging rights” rather than “world baseball classic.” Still pretty cool though.
Also, I haven’t gotten to see Yu Darvish pitch.
Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa
by raisingcain on Mar 10, 2009 4:44 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Guys DR/Nederland is in the eighth inning in a scoreless tie. This shit is bananas.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 5:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Word
It’s a good game, but as I just wrote above, I can’t stand the announcers going apeshit when the Netherlands get an out.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 5:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
To be fair I can’t believe it, either. Just hire me next time. I’ll try to pepper in some Dutch even.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 5:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is pretty crazy, I just have trouble believing the announcers sincerity.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 5:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
also, every time a routine flyball goes to the warning track I worry that this announcer is going to go into cardiac arrest. Dude, it’s a flyball, settle down.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
They wanted to compre the Netherlands win to some of the greatest upsets in sports history. It was cool to watch and all but really now. It was just a qualification game.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, I reference that above, the over-selling of that “super duper upset” has been pretty comical. I wonder if these same dudes are going to be stunned if the Padres beat the Phillies one time this year.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is exactly what just happened.
It didn’t even make the warning track, dudes.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 6:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess late in the game they have extended the fake drama into anything beyond medium depth in the OF
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the biggest surprise of the WBC has been the pitching of Team Netherlands
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 5:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s really solid. Bert Blyleven is grinning from ear to ear over there. He’s very proud of his kids.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 5:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe this will get Bert into the Hall of Fame
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Something better get him in there soon or heads will roll.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is it the pitching or are they getting really lucky and they other team hitting poorly? I can’t believe they have been able to keep the scores so low.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even during the PRWL it was not a hitters league. That is one main reason for pimping EME’s improvement.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 6:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
imagine how good they would be if they had our old friend Shairon Martis
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
They’d look like the team to beat, I daresay.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is the Braves pitcher Jair Jurgens pitching for Netherlands? If not, why?
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 6:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
nah
I don’t know why JAIR skipped the tournament. Probably wants to focus on pitching for the Bravos.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
he is not in this for all the same reasons that Sanchez shouldn’t be
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sanchez is pitching because his country beckons. If not Sanchez then nobody. Very few Boricuas to choose from and fewer pitchers.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 6:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
why not just get another American guy from Delaware like Ian Snell?
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This game is epic.
If the Netherlands wins this on a walkoff home run, there will be complete worldwide pandemonium.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
And...
…if it’s a jack by Schoop, this board will go nuclear.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll get into my car and honk the horn if Schoop wins this game on a homer.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The music for the 30 clubs/30 days commercials only remind me of MVP Baseball.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I hate it
It’s so freaking annoying. So of course whenever my boyfriend sees me he’s all ON THE ROAD AGAIN COME ON COME ON at me. >:|
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
HA!
I hated the song at first until it got stuck in my head all the time. Now I kinda dig it.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I liked that song the first time around when it was the Rescue Me theme song, but it getting pretty old on these 30 in 30 commercials
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also the new flash based player for MLB.tv is really cool. The picture quality is solid and it has DVR capabilities to pause, rewind, and fast forward live broadcasts. Plus I think there’s a feature to have up to four video feeds in the window at the same time.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm Pretty Excited
about the WBC. My dad wanted to do something father/son during spring break, and suggested going to a Giants spring training game. I suggested going to the final of the WBC, since it is closer to home and is a bigger event.
So we have tickets, and are headed to dodger stadium. Anybody have insight on what its like to watch a game there? There will be fewer dodger fans than usual, so thats a plus…
Alright, fine, I admit it! "Hydration Technician" really DOES just mean "water boy!"
by giantfan5 on Mar 10, 2009 6:14 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Never been to WBC however ......
I live in LA and have been to the stadium many times. What info are you looking for?
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 6:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How early should we get there? I’ve heard tell of the terrible traffic in the area…
Alright, fine, I admit it! "Hydration Technician" really DOES just mean "water boy!"
by giantfan5 on Mar 10, 2009 6:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Traffic in LA where did you hear that?
Would suggest getting there early an hour or so to enjoy the atmosphere and batting practice
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 6:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sweet.
Are the views pretty good from most parts of the park? I’m used to AT&T, where there is a good view from pretty much any seat you can get. Our seats for the WBC are in the upper deck, behind the plate.
Alright, fine, I admit it! "Hydration Technician" really DOES just mean "water boy!"
by giantfan5 on Mar 10, 2009 6:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Upper Deck?
Bring your handkerchief because it is in the nose bleed. Nice angle over the field however very high and steep. Park on top and easy access to seats. After the game please post your pics if taking any.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 6:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Definitely
I’m sure my dad will take plenty.
Alright, fine, I admit it! "Hydration Technician" really DOES just mean "water boy!"
by giantfan5 on Mar 10, 2009 6:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Moises Alou is really hitting here?
is Juan Marichal about to pitch out of the bullpen?
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:16 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
This might be Moises' last AB
Ever.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:16 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
This might be is definitely Moises’ last AB
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you’re watching on mlb.tv, you’re missing a pretty sweet Shamwow commercial.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 6:19 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
For 45 seconds I still kept waiting for it to be a spoof.
by non sequitur on Mar 10, 2009 6:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That Vince dude is surprisingly compelling.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Camera Guy, you following this?"
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 9:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
hopefully this is decided by Little League rules. That would just do wonders for the legitimacy of this event.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Schoop on deck
Get ready y’all.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:22 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
with a runner on now
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
THE REYES “I JUST MADE AN ERROR” CELEBRATORY DANCE!!
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 6:23 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Tough error
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
blah
Now it’s up to Randall Simon.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:25 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Wait...
…how do you pronounce “Schoop?”
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:26 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I guess we’ll have to replace all those “Schoop there it is” jokes with “Oscillischoop” jokes.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 6:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
hey, do you guys know what happens to the team that wins and what happens to the team that loses?
I’m not very clear on this point
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
In this game
The winner advances to the second round and the loser is eliminated.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lose and go home to momma
Win and move on to second round in Miami.
Plays PR tomorrow (Sanchez pitching) for seeding in second round.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 6:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, I was making a joke about the fact that the announcers say this every 5 seconds
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh zot
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This game will kill me.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Anyone who still doesn't like the WBC...
….isn’t watching.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
or maybe they have the sound rather than having it on mute
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well…yeah. If they liked it they would be watching.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or they couldn’t watch…
The Basil Fawlty Moderating Strategy:
"We could run a nice blog here if we didn't have all these members getting in the way."
by WalrusMan on Mar 11, 2009 8:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bonus WBC!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Great Extra Innings commercial
“If you like boxscores, you hate baseball”
It’s true!
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 6:29 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
D:
I like box scores.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Box scores are how I learned to read.
I guess hating baseball is just part of who I am.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 6:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
One of the coolest things I've ever seen
was in a little diner getting breakfast and seeing a father teach his two boys how to read a box score in the paper. Well, it was one of the sweetest things I’ve ever seen. After breakfast I went back to hating the idea of having kids anytime soon.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Numbers in a newspaper are called Saducko or whatever it’s called.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read boxscores online
………nerd
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
it is funny that they talk about box scores in a newspaper, you know, since newspapers don’t exist anymore.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
WTF I LOVE BOX SCORES
FUCK YOU EXTRA INNINGS
Matt Cain: He'll save children, but not the Dodger children.
PABLO SANDOVAL AM STEAL DEATH, DESTROYER OF WORLDS.
by jponry on Mar 10, 2009 6:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mercy Rule
I think that after the 9th, they invoke the mercy rule for a 1-run lead….heh.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:32 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
They should just flip a coin now.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 6:33 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
that would be only slightly more legitimate than the automatic base runners thing
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Every batter should come to the plate with a full count.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 6:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What’s the automatic baserunners rule? I missed that part.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 6:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Something like
Runners start the inning at 1st and 2nd, from the 13th inning on.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
College football style, eh?
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 6:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Interesting. This creates the possibility of a 1-pitch inning, Yabu-style.
by non sequitur on Mar 10, 2009 6:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
which runners? the next 2 guys up? or whoever they want?
by Merope on Mar 10, 2009 6:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the last 2 hitters from the previous inning
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
They should bring people out of the stands.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 6:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
YOU THERE! YOU LOOK FAST! COME AND PLAY WITH US!
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 6:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
lol…exactly!
Alternatively, the opposing team gets to pick your runners out of the stands.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 6:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where’s Bengie when you need him?
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 6:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
better yet the opposing team gets to select 2 base runners [ from out of the stands ] for you.
by Merope on Mar 10, 2009 6:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That part I didn’t know. Thanks!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
DamasLOL Marte
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not the best bunt I’ve ever seen
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 6:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Rooi-ds?
Hurry up and score here.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
C'mon c'mon!!
Is that what you meant to say?
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hate you
:)
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You have to admit you left that one over the plate.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is it only on mlb network?
I really want to watch but I don’t have it.
sighhhhhhh
Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa
by raisingcain on Mar 10, 2009 6:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Check ESPN Deportes
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are you sure you don’t have it? A lot of people found it they had it without knowing it.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 6:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know for a fact that Osiris Matos doesn’t.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 6:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Y'know...
….getting to the 13th might be the best chance for the Dutch. I’m not sure they’re good for more than one hit an inning.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:49 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
woe
Dinner’s almost ready. I think my new family will understand if I drag the laptop downstairs but it would be rude to splatter them with food when I yell at the game.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Dude, you are not family until you splatter someone with food.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 6:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Depends on the food.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
“Realistically, the Netherlands has already won.”
In another, more accurate, way, they haven’t.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 6:52 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
They won in the sense that they actually didn’t win.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 6:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
“The Netherlands has already won, literally.”
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 6:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
if the Dominican team is so opposed to scoring runs shouldn’t they have invited Pedro Feliz again?
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:54 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
they probably rescinded his invitation after that
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
EPIC FAIL
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 6:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn’t know Eugenio Velez was Dutch
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
omfg
…epic fail.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 6:57 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Netherlands :(
Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa
by raisingcain on Mar 10, 2009 6:58 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Is the Netherlands one of those countries where they murder their sports stars that fail miserably? Cause if so, that guy better watch out.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 6:58 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
l would be pretty surprised if anybody back in Amsterdam gives a rat’s ass about this (or is even aware it is taking place)
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 6:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
“Reyes and the Mets, who had their season ended on the last day of the regular season…”
Yes, they had it ended. There’s absolutely nothing they could have done last year to play in the playoffs. It was completely out of their hands.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 6:59 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Black and orange and a terrible offense. It just feels right.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 7:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Giants are the one team last year who could score off Marmol.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 7:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
/flips to Jeopardy
/sees it’s Celebrity Jeopardy
/sighs
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 7:02 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
It’s only good if Sean Connery is there.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 7:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, I’m pretty disappointed myself
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
LIFE!
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
OMG
The Dutch aren’t done yet!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:03 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Woo!
Honkball ain’t dead yet!
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 7:04 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
the batters ONLY job is to move the runner up
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 7:05 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
He did his job!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Almost drove him in there too.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chance for redemption
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
This is the guy that made the fielding gaffe, right?
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
DUDE
Quit swinging for the fences.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:08 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Woooo, that was close.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:08 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
YES~!!!
What a game!!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:09 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
He got a hold of that one….
/sarcasm
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I just yelled as loud as I did when the Giants were last in the playoffs.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Holy shit
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
HOLY COW!!!!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I think you have to, this guy cannot hit at all
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That would have been pretty sweet to see, and in retrospect totally should have happened.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
DUDE!!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:12 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
he has been ridiculously over-matched
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Felipe Is WIDE Awake
Never saw him quite like this on our team.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:13 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Sooooooo…Sharlon isn’t doing pretty terrible.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 7:13 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
terrible terrible terrible
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Marmol: hanging curve specialist
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 7:15 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
That
Was the pitch to hit there.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:16 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
OMFG!!!!
WORLD
BASEBALL
CLASSSSSSSSIC!!!!!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:16 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
PANDEMONIUM!!!
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:17 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Bonkers
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:17 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Baron just splattered food all over the place.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 7:17 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Hope Jonathan Sanchez is ready for the Netherlands
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 7:17 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Someone needs to tell him how to run to first, he almost got thrown out.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 7:18 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
think you mean people from Caribbean
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 7:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gameday sucks, anyone wanna explain what actually happenned?
by scout6 on Mar 10, 2009 7:19 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Hard grounder down the first base line, booted by the first baseman a little. It skips away, and the batter barely beats the throw to the pitcher covering first.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hard hit grounder to first which the first baseman (Aybar?) got a glove on but couldn’t field. Ball ricocheted behind him and into foul territory. Ump might have distracted him a ilttle bit as he went to go get it. He tossed it back in but it was too late.
by non sequitur on Mar 10, 2009 7:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ground ball down the line off 1b glove into foul territory as winning run scores
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 7:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well it’s nice to see at least one orange and black team exceed expectations.
by Merope on Mar 10, 2009 7:19 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Felipe is fired
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:19 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
DLOLminican RepubLOLic
Sergio Romo will gladly hand you a bench to sit on / GIANTSPACE™ / Adopted brother of the AnVil
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2009 7:21 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
CarLOLs MarmLOL
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
“One of Major League’s top closers….”
LOLOLOL
Sergio Romo will gladly hand you a bench to sit on / GIANTSPACE™ / Adopted brother of the AnVil
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2009 7:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not me
I’m Spartacus.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
And I’m replying to the wrong post.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
brain dead Caribbean fielders
making errors nightly
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:26 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
We are all Pedro Feliz
Sergio Romo will gladly hand you a bench to sit on / GIANTSPACE™ / Adopted brother of the AnVil
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2009 7:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not me
I’m Spartacus.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m Sparacus!
The Basil Fawlty Moderating Strategy:
"We could run a nice blog here if we didn't have all these members getting in the way."
by WalrusMan on Mar 11, 2009 8:20 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I AM SPORADICUS!!!…..occasionally.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 11, 2009 8:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I missed it because I was eating dinner. D: But I’ll watch the archived game later.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Just an unbelievable game.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Should the Giants take a waiver on Pedro Martinez
for the bullpen?
Sergio Romo will gladly hand you a bench to sit on / GIANTSPACE™ / Adopted brother of the AnVil
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2009 7:30 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m guessing he’d rather start.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 7:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Declaration
Moving to Netherlands brb
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:33 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I think I would not mind living in Aruba.
I hear it doesn’t take much to get knighted there.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 7:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll come back with a few Dutch babies and start my own little brood of future baseball stars.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cuba vs. Australia
Winner advances. Loser plays in an elimination game tomorrow, I think. No WAY we have another big upset, right?
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:36 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Australia did beat Mexico.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 7:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mexico played like shit in that game. Australia isn’t terrible but Mexico did themselves no favors by pitching crappily.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How many agents are lining up to represent this Chapman guy. They will probably hide him if he decides to defect.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 7:39 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I would love it if somebody smuggles this kid out of the hotel in Miami or San Diego
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just love Cuban defectors.
fuck you Castro!
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
100 mph lefty. Ridiculous. The US should send a squad of marines on to the field and kidnap him right now.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 7:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
have a military lawyer serve as his agent. It could be a great military fundraiser.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 8:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was a hell of a play.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 7:39 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Hey, Travis Blackley’s pitching!
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 7:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
They showed a clip of the Aussie team playing cricket with their baseball gear during a practice. I wonder if Blackley joined in.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No no no.
They’re doing it all wrong.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 7:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn’t see this game (playing MLB 09 The Show. Man, Lincecum sucked on opening day or maybe I suck) but I saw him pitch vs. the Mariners last week in a exhibition game.
by SFGuy on Mar 11, 2009 12:44 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
So Cuba's manager...
….is Eugenio Velez? Am I hearing that right? (I know, different Velez, but still.)
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
That's what it sounds like
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am sooooo in
i was jumping out of my skin at the end of the netherlands / DR game. I was cheering like it was game 7! GA NEDERELAND!
by uber on Mar 10, 2009 7:48 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The A's...
…er, Australian uniforms…look a lot like Oakland’s.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:48 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
When I saw MLB.com’s pic, I was wondering “why are they showing an exhibition game between the A’s and Cuba?”
Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa
by raisingcain on Mar 10, 2009 7:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cuba’s wearing their ugly red pajama uniforms.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The blue sleeves just make them grotesque.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, most of the wbc unis are pretty good, IMO. Cuba, not so much.
Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa
by raisingcain on Mar 10, 2009 7:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
what are those uniforms even made of? it looks like a whole different material
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cuba’s uniform is made of a special kind of fail-bric.
by chilibean_3 on Mar 10, 2009 7:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
lawl
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 7:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha ha
made from the skin of pro-Democracy demonstrators
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe they’re their usual national unis? Would make sense, since they’re the only squad that is really a national squad.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 7:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
easier to spot them when they try to defect…
by Merope on Mar 10, 2009 8:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
just checked the box score
NETHERLANDS!!!!!!!
(Also, the way the brackets work kind of confuse me. Does this mean there’s no way US plays an asian team until the semifinals? I guess I’m rooting for the U.S., followed by some order of Italy, Netherlands, South Africa.)
Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa
by raisingcain on Mar 10, 2009 7:49 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
oh
Italy’s out
Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa
by raisingcain on Mar 10, 2009 7:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
so is South Africa
it must be your fault
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 7:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
wow
I guess I really haven’t checked in on the wbc recently except for netherlands vs dr game
Less arm, more talk. Raisingcain is a GAMER.
Adopted Giant: Henry Sosa
by raisingcain on Mar 10, 2009 7:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How can this not be fun:
Bottom of hte 11th, tie ball game, runners at the corners,full count. A ground ball hit down the line on a pitch to the outside to win. Awsome!
by uber on Mar 10, 2009 7:52 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
That was just sick.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 8:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that over 11.5 is looking just swell right now
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 8:06 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
for no other reason
you got to love the guy in mexico city working the speed gun. Panama Hat and bad linen suit? Genius!
by uber on Mar 10, 2009 8:11 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Didn’t he used to work at Dodger Stadium? No, seriously.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 8:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, Mike Brito is his name
he is the scout that discovered Fernando
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 8:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is awesome. Since they remodeled Dodger Stadium, I don’t think I’ve seen him there. He probably got moved to somewhere not on camera.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 8:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was a great article. The story about him getting pulled over for speeding is hilarious.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 8:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
Loving it.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 8:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
So, now that the D.R. is knocked out, how many articles do you think we’ll see saying they had too many stars and not enough ball players? I would set the over/under at 4.5.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 8:19 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Is that 4.5 articles per day? Per hour?
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 8:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
“their coaching staff has been a model of consistency”
Yeah, that’s what happens when you threaten people with their lives if they leave.
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 8:19 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Siiiiiiick
That pitch. Sick.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 8:20 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
So, anyone know how old this pitcher is, and if he’s there #2, who was the #1?
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 8:25 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
He is supposed to be 21 years old. That probably means he is about 27.
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2009 8:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Old enough to know not to hang a breaking ball like that.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 8:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
So, 34?
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 10, 2009 8:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ooops
Astroturf single? Eh, looked like a plain error to me.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 8:41 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Cuban with the name of Chapman? Sounds like the brother has already altered his passport. Most Cubans now defect to Mexico instead of the Keys of Florida. It is easier. They are in Mexico City.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 9:00 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
We’ll see him stateside soon, I predict.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 9:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I mean permanently :p
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 9:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
So did he! Well, maybe. I can see it.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 9:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I want to go down there and help the kid defect
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 9:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
That was one heck of a throw — and some pretty good baserunning to beat it.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 9:14 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Cuban beisbol is slower than molasses. The Cubans could probably make a crate of rum faster than they can finish a game.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 9:17 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
So you probably aren’t thrilled by the thought of extra innings again.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 9:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Was raised with 2:10 games so these 3+ hour games are long
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 9:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Makes sense. For me, it’s not the total length of the game, but the pace. The pace of this one is glacial.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 9:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
They play a very deliberate game. An inordinate amount of time between pitches, meetings at the mound, a manager visit, pitching changes etc
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 9:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve been in since I saw the Japan China opener and finally saw who Yu Darvish is. I agree with the timing issues, but I’m liking it.
I’m watching the Cuba-Australia game right now.
by shanghaijim on Mar 10, 2009 9:26 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The production on the Mexico City games stinks
Whoever is choosing the camera shots often picks the wrong ones. It’s really annoying.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 9:30 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Aussies take the lead!
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 9:31 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Cuba vs. Mexico tomorrow?
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 9:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
After the NED victory, I had dinner with little son & bedtime stories; now rejoining ANOTHER great game!
LOVE the World Baseball Classic!
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 9:32 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Right on, right on
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 9:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
halfway to the over 11.5
and I feel good about the fact that Damian Moss is pitching
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 9:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
if these Cuban players play well in the WBC they can really open some eyes and … continue to play for a barely livable wage and be held in servitude
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 9:43 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Back in the day FIdel was quite the pelotero for Cuba. He loves the game. Hopefully Raul will be a little more receptive to democracy – if for nothing else his sports programs
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 9:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The ONE thing I was hoping that douchenozzle g.w.bush would do is lift the Cuban embargo.
It would pretty much require that a Republican president do it, in the way that only Nixon could have gone to China.
But the good news is that APPARENTLY there is some language in the current budget that suggests that the Obama administration will consider easing, though not abandoning, the idiotic embargo.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 9:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
50 years of fail
The embargo has not achieved its goals. Time to amend or better yet do away with but please do not repeat this to my Cuban friends. The funny thing is the Cuban govt opened its doors for players to play in MLB they would return the same way Puerto RIcans, Dominicans and others return each winter with cases full of disposable income,
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 9:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yep
Adoptive Parent of Francisco Peguero. He can throw, he can run, he can hit(fastballs), and he's Dominican. What else do you need to know?
by haverecords on Mar 10, 2009 9:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What do you mean it didn't achieve its goals??? IS FIDEL CASTRO STILL IN POWER???!!!! No, he is NOT.
You are absolutely right. Pretty much if an embargo was started before the memory of 80% of humans affected by it, it is safe to say that it didn’t work. And SCREW American Cubans on this point— you are also right that they are not capable of rational discussion on this point.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well
many did die in the revolution and eventual take over of the island. Many people lost there business, property etc and were uprooted throughout the Caribbean and South Florida. They envision returning one day to their rightful place and ownership
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Correct... which ain't gonna happen through an embargo.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That said, I would still like a date with Daisy Fuentes.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Every time I visit family in Florida I flirt with the Cubanas.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would expect nothing less, Wil
You would be a fool not to.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
However, got to watch out because the men are extremely jealous
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Christ, they impose ANOTHER embargo????
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
penis embargo
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that’s not going to help get the Cuban Government to stop holding these players prisoner
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 9:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
There is reason to believe that it would... eventually.
If we repeal the absurdly named Trading With the Enemy Act (a.k.a. the Cuban embargo), more money would flow into the hands of citizens. When that happens, they tend to want different things, such as greater influence over their government. If Cuban citizens had more money, they would be more likely — and more ABLE — to bring about democratic change. I think we would have more positive influence on Cuba’s government by not embargoing them than we have had for 50 years of pretending it doesn’t exist.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
all of that is true, but it doesn’t excuse the tyranical behavior of the Cuban Government
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 10:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nobody's trying to excuse their behavior. It is horrible. 50 years of non-engagement hasn't done any good and has harmed regular folks.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Multiple choice
Actual poll just now on CNN’s home page.
by shanghaijim on Mar 10, 2009 10:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ha!
Adoptive Parent of Francisco Peguero. He can throw, he can run, he can hit(fastballs), and he's Dominican. What else do you need to know?
by haverecords on Mar 10, 2009 10:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
CNN has really really deteriorated as a news organization over the last few years. That’s all i’ll say.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 10:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes. between fox, msnbc, and cnn, watching news on tv feels like russian roulette
Adoptive Parent of Francisco Peguero. He can throw, he can run, he can hit(fastballs), and he's Dominican. What else do you need to know?
by haverecords on Mar 10, 2009 10:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
CNN: always feel like watching CNN International
FOX: RNC talking points
MSNBC: Obama lapdogs
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I remember when I respected CNN. That was a long time ago, now. Still, I prefer CNN covering major world-level breaking news to any other. It’s their daily filler that drives me nuts.
by shanghaijim on Mar 10, 2009 10:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The answer’s yes, right?
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 11:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ROFL
Adopted Giant: Clayton Tanner (unless someone tells me he's already been adopted)
by walkoff baltimore chop on Mar 11, 2009 9:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do we all have the same announcers?
I’m watching on ESPN Asia here in the RP and I know for the World Series we get the MLB-produced telecast, not the FOX one.
by shanghaijim on Mar 10, 2009 9:48 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Charley Steiner
And some other guy whose name escapes me.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 9:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't say "escape"-- it startles the Cuban "coaches"
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 9:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Guess we can't call the pitchers "defective" if they give up runs
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love your screen name. Unless you're the real ex-Supe Ed Jew.
In which case, f%^k you.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m having a drink with Ed Jew in Scottsdale next weekend, so I can tell you if it’s the real Ed Jew or not.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
*this weekend
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I trust you to tell me the truth.
(And yes, I am squinting meaningfully as I type this.)
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If it’s the real Ed Jew then I’d have to dump my drink over his head.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh my
Line shot through the thin air, and now it’s 5-4 Cuba.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 10:13 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
3 more runs for the over!
if it ends with this score, that would be the worst of all worlds
by FluLikeSymptoms on Mar 10, 2009 10:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh snap. One minute I was making fun of the guy for having a Molina-esque physique, the next minute, he’s putting Cuba ahead with a pinch hit homer.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:14 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Pool 1
With Teams Japanese, Korea, Cuba and ???? is going to be fun to watch
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:22 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Won’t be surprised to see Australia win through somehow, either tonight or tomorrow.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 10:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What do you all think of putting both winners from each pool into the same pool in the 2nd round?
This removes the possibility of 2 teams from the same first pool meeting in the championship. Your thoughts?
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:25 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Example: Now, Japan & Korea go in the same pool for 2nd round, instead of placing them in different pools.
Organizers could have just easily put the winning teams from the same first-round pool into different second-round pools, but they didn’t. Now Japan & Korea, for example, cannot meet in the championship. Was that deliberate? Does it matter? Should they be precluded from playing each other (as now) or should they be given the chance?
It seems odd to me to force the two qualifying teams to play each other to determine a pool “winner,” but then put them in the same pool anyway.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well they could just take one winner from each Pool and precede. It would shorten the tournament.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not my point. They could take Japan & Korea (examples) and put them in different pools for Round 2. US & Venezuela in different pools, and so on.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The cultural differences are interesting — like the way Cuba celebrated so much after turning a double play. I’m not informed enough to comment on the politics of it, but I sure wish more Cuban players were in the MLB.
I’m curious about these guys, scouting wise. Yulieski Gourriel sounds pretty good.
by Dan from NM on Mar 10, 2009 10:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Also
iIf Cuba was open they would have the most Latin ballplayers in the MLB. More than the Dominican and Venezuela. And quality too
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
what would piss off Ammurkians more?
Fidel’s boys or Chavez’s boys doing well in MLB?
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I separate the pelotero from the dictators
Always good to see the latino play well – especially the Boricuas! C’mon Sanchez get the win tomorrow.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
We're all spics
So for the next few weeks I’m on their side too. Except with Nederland. Sorry man I gotta bandwagon the Oranje.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t know how many Americans are actually aware of who Hugo Chavez is, or what his positions are. I think that probably annoys Chavez no end.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 10:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chavez is too concerned about the price of oil
and maintaining his tight fist grab on his country
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, he is a truly horrible person.
Which is why it always pained me that he had maybe the coolest insult of g.w.bush ever— when he appeared at the United Nations the day after bush had, and said it still smelled like sulphur. Great line. Bastard.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not to be outdone the Spanish King told Hugo “Porque no te callas” and was played over and over and over on spanish tv, youtube etc
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
A cute line, but kind of... I don't know... too little, too late?
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hugo has so many despicable things throughout the years. Some you just brush off but I never will forgive what he said about Sec of State Condi Rice. He is a bum.
by wilriv21 on Mar 10, 2009 10:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've forgotten what he said about her.
But didn’t he say of Sec of State Colin Powell that he was the “house negro”? That was bad, but I kind of brushed that off.
Forsan et heac olim meminisse iuvabit... Maybe.
by Mayor of 311 on Mar 10, 2009 10:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dammit cameraman!
Yeah, the camera work at this game is less than inspiring.
by shanghaijim on Mar 10, 2009 10:27 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Aww, poor Australia
Well, there’s still tomorrow.
by shanghaijim on Mar 10, 2009 10:38 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't know how they'll recover from this
At least their baseball team seems to not embarrass itself.
GROUGTHINK ALERT
by groug on Mar 10, 2009 11:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Australia has an excellent chance of beating Mexico tomorrow. Should be an interesting rematch.
No, really, I have updated my blog this year: http://skaldheim.livejournal.com/tag/baseball
by Skaldheim on Mar 10, 2009 10:39 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Damn
Mexico needs to beat Australia to stay alive. They’d better not fuck this up again.
What a game, though. I’m very pleased that this year’s tournament is much more competitive than last year’s.
"While conservatives tell you 'leave things alone and no one will lose,' and liberals tell you 'interfere a lot and no one will lose,' baseball says 'someone will lose.' Not only says it - but insists upon it! ... Democracy is lovely, but baseball's more mature." BVCE supports SF Dugout and Manny Burriss.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2009 10:39 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
WBC: it's not as lame as the Pro-Bowl
I actually agree with Grant. I really don’t have a rooting interest, but the games are entertaining, even with Rick Sutcliffe providing the color. But, really I just watch the games because I’m not that I’ busy, man.
by theo2456 on Mar 11, 2009 12:23 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
They should make Sutcliffe drink and announce the games. That would be awesome.
When I was a kid I used to pray every night for a new bicycle. Then I realized God doesn’t work that way, so I stole one and prayed for forgiveness. - Emo Philips
Neglectful father of David Quinowski
by marcello on Mar 11, 2009 10:44 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Team Japan vs. the Giants Wednesday afternoon. Lincecum going for the Giants.
by SFGuy on Mar 11, 2009 12:49 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m going to be in Japan during the semifinals and finals. I’m hoping there will be a USA/Japan match up,
by Edge on Mar 11, 2009 8:52 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
J. Sanchez
anyone see his dominating performance today against the hard hitting dutch
4 IPs 4 Ks 0 Rs 2 Hs 1 BB
by deebrizz on Mar 11, 2009 5:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Pool 2: Saturday March 14 in Miami
USA vs Puerto Rico
Venezuela vs Nederlands
Be there
by wilriv21 on Mar 11, 2009 6:48 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Sorry, country. I don¡¯t want Lincecum to pitch for anyone but the Giants. Ever. I don¡¯t care if it¡¯s Team USA in the WBC, Team USA in the Olympics, or the Yogi Yahooeys in the Laff Olympics. Lincecum does not commit team infidelities.
What kind of reason for opposing the WBC is that?
“Oh, the horror. I’d have to watch my favorite players play more baseball!”
I’m glad you finally found a way to like the tournament, but I think it’s sad that so many people share this view of yours. A true fan should want to see their favorite players representing their nation. Saying your team’s players should never play for any other team is loving the team more than the game itself.
by kurosawatadao on Mar 27, 2009 11:23 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Why are MLB fans like this anyway? No other sports fans are like this. Bulls fans didn’t tell Michael Jordan not to join the Dream Team. Lakers fans don’t say, “Kobe will never share the court with LeBron.” Allen Iverson sure didn’t say practice (in the case of baseball, spring training) is more important than a game. Manchester United fans don’t want their players to stay out of the World Cup. Even baseball fans in other countries don’t do this. The Hanshin Tigers hate the Yomiuri Giants every bit as much as the Red Sox hate the Yankees, but Tigers fans didn’t boycott team Japan because there are Yomiuri Giants players on the roster. MLB fans need to grow up.
by kurosawatadao on Mar 27, 2009 12:34 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
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