The Personal Side of Baseball
by Grant Brisbee on Mar 10, 2010 12:43 PM PST
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PrintEvery set and subset of Giants fans has that one player who drives them nuts. Here in elitist know-it-all land it’s Eugenio Velez. In the wilds of the unwashed, ignorant masses, it’s Fred Lewis. When Velez runs the bases, I expect him to do something bizarre -- say, dig several feet below the mound looking for the fabled "fifth base," which sounds weird, but no more so than sliding ten feet past second base. When he’s at the plate, I expect two things: a distinguished display of impatience, and a wild, sack-of-antlers-in-the-spin-cycle swing. When he succeeds, I call it a fluke. When he doesn’t, it’s because he’s only one of the best 10,000 baseball players in the world, and not the best 1,000, but I still call it other, less savory things.
But I don’t know Eugenio Velez. I don’t know if he likes backgammon, Clive Cussler novels, falconry, and long walks on the beach. I don’t know if he’s the kind of guy who will pick you up from the airport at 3:00 a.m., and I don’t know if he’s the kind of guy who passes up the last glass of milk because he knows you have a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch left. When he’s on the field, he’s a part of the theater. I pretend that I don’t have any other problems except for the team opposing the Giants, and Velez is a character in that pretend-world. I’m not sure if I want to know if Velez is a great guy. He does just fine as the oft-maddening, speedy extra that he is.
Sometimes, though, you’re reminded that baseball is filled with people. The game isn’t like the Hall of Presidents at Disneyland, where animatronic figures do a little jig for your amusement. Well, maybe Velez looks a little like Lincoln, but that’s not the point. And, heck, Velez isn’t even really the point; he’s just one example. It’s just as tough to find out that a truly great player is a truly troubled human. And maybe the toughest thing at all is to read about a guy hanging it up after years of riding buses.
Which brings us to Garrett Broshius, who is retiring after six seasons in the Giants organization and recently wrote a thank-you note to all of the people and fans he met over minor league career. Just over a year after leaving the University of Missouri, Broshius was playing at Fresno, knocking on the door of the major leagues. Five years later, he retires without having ever pitched in the majors. There was no crushing injury, no Lifetime movie-of-the-week reason for this. He was effective and efficient in almost every season. For some reason, things line up for a guy like Ryan Sadowski where they don’t for a guy like Broshius. There’s no science to it.
Broshius was talented enough to share his minor league career with us through columns in The Sporting News, Baseball America, and his blog, so he became a bit of a fan favorite. How can you not root for a guy who writes things like this:
A conversation with Steve Kline is like a conversation with a flying cow. Even if you don't learn anything, it's going to be memorable.
It’s easy to read a name on a minor league transaction log and forget all about it by the time you’ve tweeted your choice of toilet paper. That’s what it’s like when the players are just names or faceless entities. Brett Pill doesn’t walk enough, and the Giants should trade him for a middle reliever. See? That’s easy to write from my perch in nerd world.
But Pill is a guy who probably works hard as heck, who hasn’t had anything handed to him, and it would be a fine story if he came up. Pablo Sandoval is mirthful and jolly. Barry Bonds is, uh, complicated. Omar Vizquel wears shirts that seem like they’re lit by six C-batteries. And Garrett Broshius probably knows where to get a good sandwich at a good price in Akron, and he can write a mighty fine story about it if he wants to. That's all pretty danged cool to know, even if it makes it a little harder to see things in a binary, my team/your team kind of way. It’s easier not to know anything about the players we root for, but it's also a hell of a lot less interesting.
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well said Grant
we all wish Garrett had at least got a cup of coffee before he decided to hang it up. Sounds like he has been battling some kind of injury, and I guess that pushed him to retire.
If you don't like Brandon Medders you're not a true fan.
Technically speaking, all writing is quality. It’s just a matter of what kind.
(Colloquially speaking, though, you obviously mean “high-quality”)
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 1:19 PM PST up reply actions
That's some nit-picking
Well, all nit-picking is some nit-picking, but….ah, forget it
Proudly adopted Aubrey Huff. You can't beat that!
Technically, forgetting is just remembering poorly.
Utter frustration and futility.
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2010 1:55 PM PST up reply actions
Misremembering.
Bochy: What’s this fancy stat here?
IT Guy: That’s how often they get on base. I do not know why you keep asking me, I am here to fix your server.
#2 in Fanshots
What did you call me?
Utter frustration and futility.
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2010 1:59 PM PST up reply actions
Technically, no one here is speaking.
The Giants Way™"If anybody deserves credit for this year’s turnaround it’s these two people, Brian and Bruce," Neukom said. "The encouraging thing is we think we’re back to playing baseball the way it ought to be played."
Howie talks aloud while he types.
WHY IS BENGIE?!
Dearest, Susan - The Patron Saint of Patience
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2010 2:33 PM PST up reply actions
He also makes vroom-vroom sounds while driving.
Utter frustration and futility.
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2010 2:34 PM PST up reply actions
And fart noises during Aaron Rowand at-bats.
Possible uses for your Steven Johnson: 5th starter, long reliever, batboy, go-fer, food taster. Just keep him on the roster!
And "boing boing" sounds when he's jumping
like the kangaroo in Far Side
Proudly adopted Aubrey Huff. You can't beat that!
“to make a written statement” is a perfectly valid definition of “to speak.” So technically, they are.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 2:38 PM PST up reply actions
How can you? That is a lot of fucking islands.
Your bench player is our #5 hitter!!!
by Mr. Angry on Mar 11, 2010 11:48 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I have a similar problem with people who talk about others having “good taste.” Wrong. Others either have taste similar to yours, or not.
Good job keeping the pedants fed, by the way.
Some people have good taste that’s not similar to mine.
Adoptive parent of Kevin "The Stopgap" Frandsen.
by EliminateMe on Mar 11, 2010 11:17 AM PST up reply actions
I agree with your premise. However, I also think there is definitely such a thing as bad taste.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 12:00 PM PST up reply actions
This is actually where I get all fidgety. I certainly hate some people’s taste, but where is the line drawn between taste I disagree with and “bad” taste? What’s the measure?
I actually hid the answer to your question in my above comment.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 12:09 PM PST up reply actions
The answer to that question is hidden somewhere in this thread!
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 12:23 PM PST up reply actions
I’m allergic, so it will just make it swell. Which actually doesn’t seem counterproductive….
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 7:05 PM PST up reply actions
Grant sometimes produces some quality writing. Sometimes……..
Randy Hahn: "I’ve been referred to as a playa…"
Don't coy
He always does.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 2:54 PM PST up reply actions
Since now.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 11:03 AM PST up reply actions
Let’s solution this!
In the end, America will be remembered for three things: the Bill of Rights, jazz, and baseball.
Let’s do.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 11:16 AM PST up reply actions
I have “Let’s solution this” on my Bullshit Bingo card. I just need a “Game Changing Technologies” for Bingo!
WHY IS BENGIE?!
Dearest, Susan - The Patron Saint of Patience
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 11, 2010 11:20 AM PST up reply actions
But if the technologies change the game, is there a guarantee you’ll still even be playing BINGO? Could this sabotage your win?
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 11:22 AM PST up reply actions
I'm down to
“Low-Hanging Fruit”
Giants pitching coach Dave Righetti. "I treat Timmy differently from most pitchers: I leave him alone."
Bengie Molina: "I don't understand why they didn't want to commit to another year, with my numbers and my experience and things like that." Brain Sabean: "He's certainly welcomed back with open arms".
carp (paraphrased): "117 elements, and still no Stanfurdium"
by natteringnabob on Mar 11, 2010 11:22 AM PST up reply actions
They mostly come at night. Mostly.
Giant Dirtbags: John Bowker, Steve Hammond. MIA List: Todd Jennings, Brian Anderson
Jeremy Affeldt induces DP's
by Giant among Angels on Mar 10, 2010 8:45 PM PST up reply actions
Just another comment praising this entry. Funny even when discussing a somewhat sentimental topic – very well-written.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 12:58 PM PST reply actions
NEWSFLASH
you’re really good at writing things. Nicely done
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Baseball players are people and so are celebrities, employees, politicians, etc. All are often treated unfairly. Assholes are praised. Awesome people are scorned. Baseball is no different then anything else.
Baseball is nodifferentawesomer then anything else.
Fixed
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 1:40 PM PST up reply actions
Baseball is way awesomer than celebrities, politics, etc.
Wayne Rooney, 1/27/09: Cometh The Hour, Cometh The Man
by Useful_Idiot on Mar 10, 2010 8:49 PM PST up reply actions
Oops, I meant to cross out “no” as well, so that it read baseball is awesomer than anything else. Reply fail. Ah well.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 11, 2010 9:43 AM PST up reply actions
Yep
They’re just like you and me, except (most of them) can hit curveballs.
Supporting San Francisco Dugout since 2005 and Manny Burriss since 2006. Bringing you all your California League and New York-Penn League needs since 2009.
by BaronVonCurrentEvents on Mar 10, 2010 1:47 PM PST up reply actions
I had a little spring training of my own over the weekend. A buddy of mine had a killer curve & changeup in HS. This weekend he was impressed that I finally hit his curveball. I didn’t have the heart to tell him that his curve is no longer curving.
The Giants Way™"If anybody deserves credit for this year’s turnaround it’s these two people, Brian and Bruce," Neukom said. "The encouraging thing is we think we’re back to playing baseball the way it ought to be played."
Zorak could be the nicest guy in the world
It would still drive me crazy watching him play baseball.
Chester A. Arthur RULZ!!!
WHY IS BENGIE?!
Dearest, Susan - The Patron Saint of Patience
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2010 1:15 PM PST reply actions
oh, for the days when presidents had facial hair
"Why not trade Bumgarner for some banger stud?" - sfgiants.com commenter or online porn ad? You be the judge!
Adopted Giant: the probably soon to be ditched but still awesome Fred Lewis
I’d vote for that beard. Or is it a mustache? Or mutton chops? I can’t tell, but I love it.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 1:41 PM PST up reply actions
Wow, that’s a real thing?
Similar note, I once met one of the U.S. competitors for the annual International Beard Competition. I just missed seeing the competition this year too.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 1:43 PM PST up reply actions
Jack Passion was in my graduating class when I went to UC Santa Cruz.
I know you nerds know NOTHING about the real game of baseball, or any other athletic endeavor requiring teamwork under physical stress.
Mr. F! | comics | art | New Nattowear | Unofficial McImage Directory
I think I could build a house out of that man’s beard.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 2:03 PM PST up reply actions
I know you nerds know NOTHING about the real game of baseball, or any other athletic endeavor requiring teamwork under physical stress.
Mr. F! | comics | art | New Nattowear | Unofficial McImage Directory
hurrrrrrrrrrrumph
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 2:13 PM PST up reply actions
your argument is invalid
These are my principles. If you don't like them, I have others. -Groucho Marx
Hot-lips Hulihee?
Utter frustration and futility.
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2010 1:56 PM PST up reply actions
hmm..
Not much. Even Howie puts that to shame
Wayne Rooney, 1/27/09: Cometh The Hour, Cometh The Man
by Useful_Idiot on Mar 10, 2010 8:54 PM PST up reply actions
Kind of in this boat. He does ty hard. If he is ona squad figured to lose 90+ game and a this age or younger I rther enjoy him. But seriously is the canary in the no Post Season Mine. If he is on the 25 man for any significant ammounts of play off team thta team is not in conttention for teh Post Season.
Threat level that the 2010 Pads finish with more wins than the 2010 Giants is currently at - 25%
And now with Preview button!
I am Kind of in this boat. He does try hard. If he is on a squad figured to lose 90+ game and at this age or younger I rather enjoy him. But seriously he is the canary in the no Post Season Mine. If he is on a 25 man for any significant amounts of play time team that team is not in contention for the Post Season. An no amount of " WE ARE IN THIS !!!" changes this.
Threat level that the 2010 Pads finish with more wins than the 2010 Giants is currently at - 25%
"I don’t know why people feel the need to come up with reasons 'why' for everything..." - Missing Barry
by victor frankenstein on Mar 14, 2010 12:59 PM PDT up reply actions
As much as it would be a dream come true to be a baseball GM, there is the whole “crushing someone’s lifelong dream because they couldn’t ISO over .115” aspect that I am glad I’m not a part of.
Cursing Velez is easier to do when I focus on his inability to catch a flyball rather than focus on him as a person. As DFAR mentioned above this tendency isn’t reserved for ball players, however I find it hard to believe that this planet might be a little better place if people recognized the human side of things more.
//Back to reality: WaMu OTC shares are trading up. WooHoo.
Please tell me we have moved past the dark ages of post hoc ergo propter hoc.
That would be tough, but unfortunately where there is a large group of people competing for a small pool of spots and different talent levels are manifested in results, decision makers generally should not give a crap about the personal stories.
Sometimes, life sucks.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 1:45 PM PST up reply actions
I completly agree
Which is a reason I’m glad I’m not a decision maker in MLB.
Please tell me we have moved past the dark ages of post hoc ergo propter hoc.
by Yeti Monster on Mar 10, 2010 1:56 PM PST up reply actions
Which is funny..
..because I’m able to remove emotion from decisions when at work.
Possibly because I was one of the many who had the dream of playing in the bigs, and I know what it’s like to come to the realization that the dream will never be fulfilled. I was able to play competitively into my 20s, and for that I am very lucky, but that doesn’t make the final outcome any easier to swallow
Please tell me we have moved past the dark ages of post hoc ergo propter hoc.
by Yeti Monster on Mar 10, 2010 2:43 PM PST up reply actions
Maybe your personal connection to minor leaguers (sorry it didn’t work out, but still jealous you had that shot) is why it would be difficult for you to be a decision maker in baseball.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 3:17 PM PST up reply actions
i paid to play until I was 44, and hanging them up was still a very difficult transition
well, it was really gary thomasson--the great, giant, fan
Language of the McCoven--TWSS!, Meh!, STFD!, Bork!, Fail!, STFD! STFD! STFD!
by greatgiantfan on Mar 10, 2010 3:33 PM PST up reply actions
I played through college and even though it’s been 10 years since I last played I still have some difficulty accepting that it’s over.
We're all basically Pedro Feliz.
I quit when I was 13 for geography reasons and I still have fantasies where I discover a 95 MPH fastball and get drafted.
Possible uses for your Steven Johnson: 5th starter, long reliever, batboy, go-fer, food taster. Just keep him on the roster!
It’s been about ten years since I though I had a shot. Each year I make it to the cages once or twice thinking that magically I’ll learn how to hit. So far, no luck.
Please tell me we have moved past the dark ages of post hoc ergo propter hoc.
by Yeti Monster on Mar 10, 2010 4:27 PM PST up reply actions
I quit the summer between jr/sr high. I was playing in 16 year old league and didn’t know anyone on my team. I played the minimum required innings per game.Catcher was injured for the rest of the season and instead of playing a bench player more (like me or some other non friends of the coach and his son) the coach brought his sons friend on the team and played him full time. I quit and wish I had not know.
Since I turned 25 on Monday my hopes of playing baseball through open tryouts is over ;(
Matt Graham is an anagram for .... why don't you ask the scrabble expert!
by say hey nation on Mar 10, 2010 4:45 PM PST up reply actions
The Downward Spiral
You should have seen my Wiffle slurve.
"I don’t know why people feel the need to come up with reasons 'why' for everything..." - Missing Barry
by victor frankenstein on Mar 11, 2010 2:27 PM PST up reply actions
I've NEVER played sports competitively
and I dream about playing in the NFL like nobody’s business. Pretty convinced I’d be good, too.
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
I still think I could play the outfield better than at least a quarter of the players in the bigs right now.
I’d be a great 25th man, late-inning defensive replacement who was never allowed to bat. :)
by The Double Deuce on Mar 10, 2010 5:22 PM PST up reply actions
Andres Torres V 2.0
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Don't mock the dude who had our 2nd highest OPS last season
"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."
My Son was the third most valuable Giant position player by WAR in 2009. A little sad, a little happy.
LOL sample size
FWIW I do like Torres.
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Broshius is an awesome writer, it’ll be good to read his book someday about his life in the minor leagues, including the stories he couldn’t tell on his blog. Good stuff.
Somewhat OT: It is amazing to me that all of the big four professional athletes, baseball players are the least educated. I don’t know the statistics off-hand, but a lot of them go straight from high school to the pros; obviously can’t do that in football and basketball.
I would kill to read something book-length from Broshius about his life in the minors. Mebbe Mr. Brisbee could write the foreword.
by non sequitur on Mar 10, 2010 1:31 PM PST up reply actions
me too
Giants pitching coach Dave Righetti. "I treat Timmy differently from most pitchers: I leave him alone."
Bengie Molina: "I don't understand why they didn't want to commit to another year, with my numbers and my experience and things like that." Brain Sabean: "He's certainly welcomed back with open arms".
carp (paraphrased): "117 elements, and still no Stanfurdium"
by natteringnabob on Mar 10, 2010 1:47 PM PST up reply actions
Already told him so via tweetorz. I hope he’ll do it.
Ryan Rohlinger lives in my basement. I let him out to play baseball.
I think basketball players are a close second, though
the really good ones only go to college for a year, and they don’t take it seriously. In basketball kids are scooped up into AAU programs in like 8th grade, so they never need to take education seriously if they’re really good.
I’m thinking football players are some of the smarter ones, since they have to go to school longer and many know that their careers will be shorter than in other sports, so they need to have a backup plan. That could be completely wrong, though.
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
positional adjustment
not a lot of chemistry majors at cornerback…
Giants pitching coach Dave Righetti. "I treat Timmy differently from most pitchers: I leave him alone."
Bengie Molina: "I don't understand why they didn't want to commit to another year, with my numbers and my experience and things like that." Brain Sabean: "He's certainly welcomed back with open arms".
carp (paraphrased): "117 elements, and still no Stanfurdium"
by natteringnabob on Mar 10, 2010 1:47 PM PST up reply actions
yeah. more education doesn’t necessarily equal being ‘smarter’. it simply means they’ve had more education.
"Your best?!?!! Losers always whine about their best. Winners go home and &^%@ the prom queen"
Super Rodgers Bros.
#52
that said, football might be the most mentally demanding sport. so many schemes, coverages, offenses, etc. to learn.
"Your best?!?!! Losers always whine about their best. Winners go home and &^%@ the prom queen"
Super Rodgers Bros.
#52
Yeah, I think you’re right, especially at certain positions in football you really have to understand what’s going on around you, know the playbook.
Re: education, agreed. I was somewhat implying not as smart, but considering they’re getting paid to play baseball and I’m not, that’s pretty smart on their end.
Let me play devil’s advocate for just a moment, and understand it’s because I believe you make a very interesting argument. I write this with no snark and no attitude. I’d like to get your take on this:
“Smarter” or any synonym thereof can have many implications. I went to college at a mid-size state university, but I still think it made me smarter. I can’t fix a particle accelerator or broker peace in the Middle East. But yeah, I’m smarter than if I had stopped after high school.
A person’s “smarts” can take many forms. They could be anything, from accepting the diversity of ideas to artistic creativity to better ways of accomplishing one’s chosen vocation. All of those things and more can be achieved through higher education.
So simply saying “It’s just more education” sells the process way short. At the least, I wish you’d warned me before I spent all that money to get a degree.
that's not what I was saying
I assume, for example, you went to class. And that you ended up with, or near, a degree. Or at least taking classes in some semblance of a degree program. I have seen many a “junior” or “senior” football player list their major as “undeclared” or “general studies”, which implies that they’re not doing what you did in school.
Not saying that baseball collegians necessarily get more out of college than football collegians. But I’m definitely not going to say that DBs and WRs are on average smarter because they went to college. On average, those guys score about the same on the Wonderlic as security guards. That’s quite a statement for four or five years of college education.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wonderlic_Test
I’d also speculate that there is in general a lot more alumni pressure to pass football players than baseball players. I’d like to think that the baseball players that choose to go to college rather than sign on with a team do so (occasionally at least) because they want to go to school. Football players HAVE to play in college to go to the NFL, for all intents and purposes.
Giants pitching coach Dave Righetti. "I treat Timmy differently from most pitchers: I leave him alone."
Bengie Molina: "I don't understand why they didn't want to commit to another year, with my numbers and my experience and things like that." Brain Sabean: "He's certainly welcomed back with open arms".
carp (paraphrased): "117 elements, and still no Stanfurdium"
by natteringnabob on Mar 10, 2010 5:35 PM PST up reply actions
Ah, yes. That’s a good point. I’ve seen the undeclared status many a time in collegiate athletics. And you’re right about care being a huge factor. I could have blown the money and ended up with nothing. The fact that I have a B.A. today is due to my wanting it (and wanting to work for it).
There’s the maturity factor, too, which you alluded to. I guess some prospects intentionally stall their own draft eligibility to continue in their studies, and that’s another mark in the “wanting to work for it” column. Higher ed is a choice, and both choices can be valid.
I’m sure most players are decent people, but it’s a documented fact, however, that before signing with the Dodgers they make you punch a kitten in the face.
Monday Monkey lives for the weekend, sir.
Just like Soilent Green.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 2:47 PM PST up reply actions
So… We can eat ’em?
"Career potential: situational lefty." Situation: Ragnarok, bases loaded, Odin at the plate. You know who's getting the call.
-Adopted Giant: Dan Runzler
golf clap
Also, I’m backing the Steve Kline quote 100%. Dude talked my and Tracy’s ears off at Fenway a coupla years ago. He was outrageous, hilarious, and brutally honest. Nuff respect to Kline, Broshius, and Grant.
Billy Hayes: His job is better than yours.
Delorean has a weakness for the hairy guys
WHY IS BENGIE?!
Dearest, Susan - The Patron Saint of Patience
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2010 1:35 PM PST up reply actions
I think he has a weakness for goofy West Virginians. Hide, Xanthan!
Jonathan Sanchez: Often maddening to watch, but capable of perfection on a moment's notice---just like his adoptive father.
well xanthan has androgenous female journalists in Milwaukee on lock down
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 1:44 PM PST up reply actions
So delorean didn’t sleep with Kline? For shame…
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 1:42 PM PST up reply actions
Dude almost crushed my shoulder with his bear paw.
A conversation with him during Spring Training had me picturing myself as the kid who listened to the crazy talk coming out of Peter Graves’ mouth in Airplane. “Say, do you like gladiator films?”
Another time, one of my female friends and her friends were waiting for their ride outside of AT&T late after a game. According to her, their ride was super late and there was no one else along the street. Steve was getting cash out of the ATM nearby, and offered to stay to make sure they get home safely. Turns out their ride didn’t get there for another hour, but Steve stuck around and chit chatted with them.
Steve Kline = awesome dude.
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 1:39 PM PST up reply actions 2 recs
have you ever been in a men’s locker room?
"Your best?!?!! Losers always whine about their best. Winners go home and &^%@ the prom queen"
Super Rodgers Bros.
#52
I had to look it up. The kid’s name was Joey.
I’m picturing Kline with Joey Martinez saying to him, “Joey, have you ever been to a Turkish prison?”
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 2:19 PM PST up reply actions
“Have you ever seen a grown man naked?”
The Giants Way™"If anybody deserves credit for this year’s turnaround it’s these two people, Brian and Bruce," Neukom said. "The encouraging thing is we think we’re back to playing baseball the way it ought to be played."
+109 x 109
Well said, Grant.
Adopted Giant: Clayton Tanner
by walkoff baltimore chop on Mar 10, 2010 1:32 PM PST reply actions
Don’t make me like him as a person!
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 1:43 PM PST up reply actions
I saw Velez during calisthenics the day of the three inning intrasquad game.
I remember catching glimpses of him during televised games last year, and he always seemed pretty upbeat…but that day he looked pretty unhappy.
"I don’t know why people feel the need to come up with reasons 'why' for everything..." - Missing Barry
by victor frankenstein on Mar 11, 2010 2:32 PM PST up reply actions
Velez the ballplayer: Repugnant.
Velez the human being: HIstory’s Greatest Monster.
It’s Science.
TEMPORARY SIG AWAITING FINAL SABEAN APOCALYPSE
-------
PARPG- Indy post-apocalyptic roleplaying game in development
And...
I personally feel sorry for Torii Hunter’s dumbassness
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
Velez likes pina coladas
and getting caught in the rain.
Plotting the ultimate demise of Gore51 (never met him, I dunno he could be swell) so as to adopt Kyle Nicholson.
"I don’t know much about sabre-stats but there’s nothing better than white tea and poptarts first thing in the morning" - tk
by Whiteteaandpoptarts on Mar 10, 2010 1:51 PM PST reply actions
Ha!
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 2:00 PM PST up reply actions
Johnny 5 is alive.
The Giants Way™"If anybody deserves credit for this year’s turnaround it’s these two people, Brian and Bruce," Neukom said. "The encouraging thing is we think we’re back to playing baseball the way it ought to be played."
Your mother was a snowblower!
Brian says a lot of things. Brian only does one thing, though. Get low OBP hacking suckholes who’s best years are in the past. - Missing Barry
Gross.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 3:37 PM PST up reply actions
JT didn't mind
WHY IS BENGIE?!
Dearest, Susan - The Patron Saint of Patience
by Lars The Wanderer on Mar 10, 2010 5:21 PM PST up reply actions
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=snow+blow
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 7:43 PM PST up reply actions
It’s probably both.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 7:56 PM PST up reply actions
I don’t why anyone would do either.
The Giants offseason moves - "meh"
Proud father of 2-time Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum, who could do whatever he wants to do.
how do they separate the sperm from the semen? just askin’
well, it was really gary thomasson--the great, giant, fan
Language of the McCoven--TWSS!, Meh!, STFD!, Bork!, Fail!, STFD! STFD! STFD!
by greatgiantfan on Mar 10, 2010 8:00 PM PST up reply actions
centrifuge
duh.
TEMPORARY SIG AWAITING FINAL SABEAN APOCALYPSE
-------
PARPG- Indy post-apocalyptic roleplaying game in development
Hey, to each his or her own.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 8:03 PM PST up reply actions
oh nooooooo
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Wasn’t this part of the dialogue in the first Clerks?
Giant Dirtbags: John Bowker, Steve Hammond. MIA List: Todd Jennings, Brian Anderson
Jeremy Affeldt induces DP's
by Giant among Angels on Mar 10, 2010 8:52 PM PST up reply actions
Yep
I know you nerds know NOTHING about the real game of baseball, or any other athletic endeavor requiring teamwork under physical stress.
Mr. F! | comics | art | New Nattowear | Unofficial McImage Directory
It was also in that movie Stepmom with Julia Roberts.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 8:38 AM PST up reply actions
lint licker
"Being a McCoven is like being a member of the Green party. It’s powerlessness is part of the appeal." - oldjacket
"Quiet you, I'm starting a meme." - Me
State Senator from Kern County CA
Ryan Rohlinger lives in my basement. I let him out to play baseball.
by shanghaijim on Mar 10, 2010 10:48 PM PST up reply actions
Los Locos kick your balls into outer space!
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 4:38 PM PST up reply actions
day after tomorrow: xanthan is gum
well, it was really gary thomasson--the great, giant, fan
Language of the McCoven--TWSS!, Meh!, STFD!, Bork!, Fail!, STFD! STFD! STFD!
by greatgiantfan on Mar 11, 2010 12:54 AM PST up reply actions
Nice piece and while ..
Velez could be Mother Teresa in spikes feeding the indigent in Arizona and hurray for that, he still throws behind runners, tries to stretch a double to a triple with no one out in the 8th of a tie game (not over it, and never will be over The Estes Slide or the Baby Bull trade for that matter), etc., etc. Poor Velez … one cannot play in the majors if one doesn’t know how to play baseball, one says. Well, this one.
by GiantMalcontent on Mar 10, 2010 2:08 PM PST reply actions
Your name seems well chosen.
But I agree on Velez, he just does not seem to have a head for the game.
Adoptive parent of Kevin "The Stopgap" Frandsen.
If this be true, and also with Flew...
…how is it they’re bouncing around the bigs? Wouldn’t knowing coaches have seen the signs earlier, or are we that starved for halfway competent talent?
"I don’t know why people feel the need to come up with reasons 'why' for everything..." - Missing Barry
by victor frankenstein on Mar 11, 2010 2:36 PM PST up reply actions
bravo, Grant...
…and best of luck, Garrett
"Robb Nen is going to get you" – Benito Santiago to Chipper Jones, 10/7/02
Nice piece
But who the heck puts milk on their Cinnamon Toast Crunch? Fail.
STEVE HOLM! refuses to be the odd man out.
Milk tears my insides up.
Got to go with soy milk on this one
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 2:16 PM PST up reply actions
I have actually. I make my own as well.
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 3:44 PM PST up reply actions
This is awesome. I’ve been meaning to look up making almond milk. I’ve noticed some sketchy ingredients on the store bought stuff.
We're all basically Pedro Feliz.
I’ve done this with hazelnuts as well. So delicious in coffee.
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 4:37 PM PST up reply actions
This may be relevant to my mother’s interests.
I know you nerds know NOTHING about the real game of baseball, or any other athletic endeavor requiring teamwork under physical stress.
Mr. F! | comics | art | New Nattowear | Unofficial McImage Directory
Milking nuts?
(Sorry, couldn’t resist. Well, could have, but chose not to.)
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 3:59 PM PST up reply actions
Same goes for coconut milk.
Please tell me we have moved past the dark ages of post hoc ergo propter hoc.
by Yeti Monster on Mar 10, 2010 4:31 PM PST up reply actions
Can’t drink too much coconut milk. It makes too good of a laxative.
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 4:36 PM PST up reply actions
I tried to drink coconut milk straight from a coconut… it was meh.
And yes I used the right coconut!
Matt Graham is an anagram for .... why don't you ask the scrabble expert!
by say hey nation on Mar 10, 2010 4:47 PM PST up reply actions
The liquid inside the coconut..
..is coconut water, not milk. Sorry to get technical and whatnot.
Please tell me we have moved past the dark ages of post hoc ergo propter hoc.
by Yeti Monster on Mar 10, 2010 4:50 PM PST up reply actions
No, I made it.
Matt Graham is an anagram for .... why don't you ask the scrabble expert!
by say hey nation on Mar 10, 2010 4:52 PM PST up reply actions
Sorry, I misunderstood
Please tell me we have moved past the dark ages of post hoc ergo propter hoc.
by Yeti Monster on Mar 10, 2010 4:53 PM PST up reply actions
ahem, it says so on the can
Tommy Joseph is the Dingerzball Wizard
by SoFa King Mike on Mar 10, 2010 4:53 PM PST up reply actions
Coconut milk is made from the flesh of mature coconuts. Coconut water is the liquid inside a young coconut.
I know you nerds know NOTHING about the real game of baseball, or any other athletic endeavor requiring teamwork under physical stress.
Mr. F! | comics | art | New Nattowear | Unofficial McImage Directory
Chococo Taco?
well, it was really gary thomasson--the great, giant, fan
Language of the McCoven--TWSS!, Meh!, STFD!, Bork!, Fail!, STFD! STFD! STFD!
by greatgiantfan on Mar 10, 2010 6:21 PM PST up reply actions
I like both
"Being a McCoven is like being a member of the Green party. It’s powerlessness is part of the appeal." - oldjacket
"Quiet you, I'm starting a meme." - Me
That sounds surprisingly perverted.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 7:44 PM PST up reply actions
Perversion is in the eye of the beholder. I for one prefer the milk from the flesh of a mature one over the liquid from a young one.
go rowand
by lincypoo i wuv u on Mar 10, 2010 11:04 PM PST up reply actions
You and I both.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 8:39 AM PST up reply actions
Coconut water is a refreshing drink on a hot day.
In the end, America will be remembered for three things: the Bill of Rights, jazz, and baseball.
It’s fantastic after a bikram yoga session. Less caloric than sports drinks, decent amount of K.
One of those and a liter of water and I’m back to normal.
"Being a McCoven is like being a member of the Green party. It’s powerlessness is part of the appeal." - oldjacket
"Quiet you, I'm starting a meme." - Me
…back to normal
well, it was really gary thomasson--the great, giant, fan
Language of the McCoven--TWSS!, Meh!, STFD!, Bork!, Fail!, STFD! STFD! STFD!
by greatgiantfan on Mar 11, 2010 12:53 AM PST up reply actions
I’ve started doing Bikram Yoga recently, despite not really believing much in the way of the claims made by it’s creator. I was surprised to find that most of my classmates feel the same way.
Mark DeRosa: the rare utility player who can provide some utility.
Yoga is great
so long as you throw out all the spiritual crap, at least in my experience. The actual exercise is realllyyy nice
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Yoga seems like a luxury to me. If I had a ton of time then I would do it. Since it’s an hour and a half usually it seems like you can get a much better workout in a lot less time.
We're all basically Pedro Feliz.
It's all about what you want from a workout I guess
it won’t get you buff, but it will tone your ass up and make you realllyyy flexible. And in good shape.
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Yeah but I think you could tone your ass and improve flexibility with other workouts in less time.
We're all basically Pedro Feliz.
Meh maybe
I’m not a big yoga person, but we did it in school a bit and it was pretty awesome. It’s unlike any other workout I’ve done
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Try crew.
Matt Graham is an anagram for .... why don't you ask the scrabble expert!
by say hey nation on Mar 11, 2010 9:54 AM PST up reply actions
Yeah, I’m not anti-yoga or anything. I just can’t seem to find the time to do it regularly. Once I win the lotto and retire that will change.
We're all basically Pedro Feliz.
Heh.
Think I’m gonna go outside and tone my ass with a long bikram ride.
"I don’t know why people feel the need to come up with reasons 'why' for everything..." - Missing Barry
by victor frankenstein on Mar 11, 2010 2:38 PM PST up reply actions
In that case I should probably drink more.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 7:44 PM PST up reply actions
I just go for lactose free milk
tastes almost exactly the same but no scummyness or stomach hurtiness
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Not enough lactose.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 5:26 PM PST up reply actions
It does have a little bit of sweetness to it, yeah
I like it personally, but to each their own
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Me!
I know you nerds know NOTHING about the real game of baseball, or any other athletic endeavor requiring teamwork under physical stress.
Mr. F! | comics | art | New Nattowear | Unofficial McImage Directory
People who aren’t wrong about everything.
Belted!
by AndYourBirdCanSing on Mar 10, 2010 2:31 PM PST up reply actions
Sugar milk? That really does it for you?
It’s all about dry cereal, all the time!
STEVE HOLM! refuses to be the odd man out.
by UnleashTheGore on Mar 10, 2010 3:19 PM PST up reply actions
ew
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
Too dry; didn’t eat.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 4:11 PM PST up reply actions
If you diss milk in my cocoa puffs, making milky milky cocoa puffs, then you sir can just leave.
go rowand
by lincypoo i wuv u on Mar 10, 2010 11:06 PM PST up reply actions
It’s better to crush it up and snort it.
Utter frustration and futility.
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2010 2:38 PM PST up reply actions
Tried that with Pixie dust one time when I was really bored in Math class. It felt funny.
Hensley "Bam Bam" Meulens!
Better than you! Mejor que tú! Beter dan jij! 良い場合も! Mehor than abo!
by GrahamCrakalaka on Mar 10, 2010 5:08 PM PST up reply actions
Me!
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 10, 2010 3:37 PM PST up reply actions
Well said
I think I’m still a little too much of a newbie stats-nerd to really claim Velez as my guy who drives me nuts. For me its Aaron Rowand, or as he’s known around my house, “He-who-runs-into-a-thousand-walls”.
Just the mere sight of Rowand can be enough to infuriate me when I’m in a mood. But I’ve seen and heard enough from him or others that makes me think if I met him outside the baseball context I might actually like him. He comes off as a decent enough guy. Maybe a little too much of a Bro for me to ever want to be friends with him, but nice enough that he wouldn’t be on my shit list.
So about the only way I can justify what I say and think about Rowand on a regular basis – especially when he’s swinging at a slider 2 feet off the plate for strike 3 – is the cognitive dissonance that exists in my mind where Aaron Rowand the Baseball Player and Aaron Rowand the Person are two completely separate people. Because the things I would have to say about Rowand the Player should never be said to Rowand the Person; he just doesn’t deserve that kind of abuse.
in the best shape of my life
by Prussian Creole on Mar 10, 2010 2:28 PM PST reply actions
For me, Velez embodies the problems with Giants management. They focus on small sample sizes and the wrong stats to say that Velez is good, while they do the same to other players and decide they’re bad (Lewis, Bowker). They look at Velez’s tools/VROOOOOOM to decide he’s good while ignoring the more important aspects of his game, which are not good.
Basically, Velez is not a good player. Potentially a bench player, but that’s it. And yet the Giants management seems to consider him good, potentially a starter. I think Bochy at least once this offseason listed Velez as a potential leadoff hitter. That frightens me, so Velez frightens me. Not entirely fair to Velez perhaps, but that’s why I focus on him.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 2:44 PM PST up reply actions
Agreed – on all counts
But for some reason, I blame the management for Velez (for all the reasons you so perfectly spelled out) more than I blame the management for Rowand. This is silly, I know, because management is responsible for both being on the field, but at least with Velez I can lie to myself and say things like, “He’s young” (even though he really isn’t) or “He’s still learning” or “He’s open to criticism” or “He’s not yet fully stuck in his ways” as opposed to Rowand who could (and should dammit!!!) watch hours of tape and still not lay off that pesky slider.
in the best shape of my life
by Prussian Creole on Mar 10, 2010 3:30 PM PST up reply actions
Velez and Frandsen/Bowker/Posey (pick one) embody the problems with Giants management to me. Velez for the reasons you gave, and the other guys because they are players who have shown significant promise in the minor leagues (and in areas where the Giants need significant improvement), but aren’t given a chance to start because they went out and signed some old FA who represents a small upgrade at best and a more expensive, less good player at worst. They just continually refuse to give the young guys who have shown they can contribute a serious look for reasons which entirely escape me. We poke a lot of fun with the “GRIT/GAMER/VETERAN SAVVY” memes, but they’re entirely too true.
Possible uses for your Steven Johnson: 5th starter, long reliever, batboy, go-fer, food taster. Just keep him on the roster!
I agree
But still think that if Velez could harness his tools (however unlikely that is), he could be a helluva player. I think management has seen the flashes and think he has it in him.
Proudly adopted Aubrey Huff. You can't beat that!
I remember first seeing him hit with the giants in 2007. The combo of speed and power he showed was damn intriguing. But with a greater sample of at bats, I think it’s fair to say that he could benefit from the Buster Posey treatment (one way ticket to the farm) both offensively and defensively.
He’s only had about 350 abs in AAA. Is there a benefit for him "harnessing his tools" with the big league club as opposed to doing so in the minors?
Please tell me we have moved past the dark ages of post hoc ergo propter hoc.
by Yeti Monster on Mar 10, 2010 4:43 PM PST up reply actions
Yeah, he can harness all he wants in AAA as far as I’m concerned, not on the 25 man roster. Honestly, I doubt he will harness those tools, so I’m not overly concerned about where he ends up.
Eagerly anticipating adding to my Giants family.
by giantsfansince1981 on Mar 10, 2010 4:55 PM PST up reply actions
Yeah
Remember how he stole bases at will in that first ST? Who knew no one was showing him their pickoff moves?
I wasn’t opining on whether he should make the big club or not, only that I understand what management sees in him. You’re right that he probably should be in Fresno getting regular ABs. Does he have any options left? Velez’ greatest potential value to the team is if he can ever harness his tools and “put it all together”. Though the odds are long, he could be a legit MLB starter. I only have one remarkable tool and even that took me a while to harness. Once I did, I was a sight to behold.
I guess the question is whether you go for the long odds and devope him in AAA or try to get something out of him now as a reserve. The Giants clearly seemed to have backed off from the idea that he’s a 2010 starter.
Proudly adopted Aubrey Huff. You can't beat that!
But on the ‘get something out of him now’ side, I don’t see any advantage to Velez over Torres; Velez is several years younger, but that only matters if you’re looking for a long term solution.
And I wish you’d put your tool back in your harness, Goofus.
Adoptive parent of Kevin "The Stopgap" Frandsen.
by EliminateMe on Mar 11, 2010 10:29 AM PST up reply actions
he was a lot less horrible last year
He even played at 2B without clanking it up too bad, which I thought was totally impossible the prior year.
I think he’s still a bad fit as a bench player, but since the talent pool is so shallow with this team, he’s not “the problem”. I’m hopeful he improves a bit more this year, but that doesn’t mean he should be starting, or (really) considered as anything but an emergency starter.
Giants pitching coach Dave Righetti. "I treat Timmy differently from most pitchers: I leave him alone."
Bengie Molina: "I don't understand why they didn't want to commit to another year, with my numbers and my experience and things like that." Brain Sabean: "He's certainly welcomed back with open arms".
carp (paraphrased): "117 elements, and still no Stanfurdium"
by natteringnabob on Mar 10, 2010 5:44 PM PST up reply actions
I remember him looking just as bad at 2B last year as ever, but much better in OF.
Mark DeRosa: the rare utility player who can provide some utility.
Minute Maid LF says hi
Giant Dirtbags: John Bowker, Steve Hammond. MIA List: Todd Jennings, Brian Anderson
Jeremy Affeldt induces DP's
by Giant among Angels on Mar 10, 2010 8:54 PM PST up reply actions
Reading that made me remember, then i
Bochy: What’s this fancy stat here?
IT Guy: That’s how often they get on base. I do not know why you keep asking me, I am here to fix your server.
#2 in Fanshots
/runs to base of wall, watches helplessly as ball bounces off top of wall and back to infield.
TWICE
Bochy: What’s this fancy stat here?
IT Guy: That’s how often they get on base. I do not know why you keep asking me, I am here to fix your server.
#2 in Fanshots
he made some good plays last year too. I’m saying he’s progressed to the point where his legs and arm will make up for the occasional yakity sax moment.
Kinda like Fred Lewis.
Mark DeRosa: the rare utility player who can provide some utility.
There’s something very wrong with that Fred Lewis quip, but I’m not going to expend the energy to argue it. I will say that while Velez has some web gem moments, but takes questionable routes and seems to routinely misplay balls that require him to be somewhere other than where the ball is actually landing (like the wall bounce described above). Fred Lewis doesn’t really misplay balls so much as he simply runs poor routes to fly balls and occasionally drops one or three of them. You can make up for bad routes with good speed. You can’t really make up for not even knowing where you’re supposed to be in the first place.
Damn, I guess I did expend my energy. Oh well.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 10:01 AM PST up reply actions
Not only did I expend my energy, but I completely busted a sentence in the process. You could say that not only did I overrun my route there, but I also misplayed my grammar.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 10:02 AM PST up reply actions
Damn, I guess I did expend my energy. Oh well.
…and kinda contradicted yourself.
Occasional bad routes, Vroom – check, K-fred – check
Occasional clank, Vroom – check, K-fred – check
Your bench player is our #5 hitter!!!
I’m pretty sure I didn’t.
When I talked about misplaying balls, I was talking about actually being where you need to be to play a ball that you’re not catching on the fly. Velez seems to chase endlessly after balls he has no chance of getting to, putting him ridiculously out of position when they hit the wall and ricochet or when he has to back up a teammate.
Velez clanks. Lewis clanks. Velez has questionable routes. Lewis has questionable routes. Velez doesn’t know where he needs to be on anything other than a routine fly ball. Lewis actually does.
I don't know about that, to the groin.
by howtheyscored on Mar 11, 2010 11:06 AM PST up reply actions
Also
Lewis can get on base when hitting. Velez can’t do anything.
Extremely proud adoptive parent of Paul E. Stanley, hacker extraordinaire. Rescuing moribund Giants lineups since 2008
Thanks to roger
I've never been happier to have Crabs
by bondslegend on Mar 11, 2010 11:12 AM PST up reply actions
right
I didn’t say he’s great, I said he’s better than last year.
And unlike Howie I’m not taking the Fredbait.
Giants pitching coach Dave Righetti. "I treat Timmy differently from most pitchers: I leave him alone."
Bengie Molina: "I don't understand why they didn't want to commit to another year, with my numbers and my experience and things like that." Brain Sabean: "He's certainly welcomed back with open arms".
carp (paraphrased): "117 elements, and still no Stanfurdium"
by natteringnabob on Mar 11, 2010 10:33 AM PST up reply actions
I only wish management has seen my flashes and harnessed tools
go rowand
by lincypoo i wuv u on Mar 10, 2010 11:08 PM PST up reply actions
My problem with that asshole Scott Rowand is that even when you know he’s getting that slider, I know he’s getting that slider, everyone and their fat, promiscuous mamas know he’s getting the slider, HE STILL SWINGS AT THE FUCKING SLIDER. What is wrong with him? Did his mother use him to drive nails into concrete?
"Career potential: situational lefty." Situation: Ragnarok, bases loaded, Odin at the plate. You know who's getting the call.
-Adopted Giant: Dan Runzler
that pitch—low and away—is what separates the wheat from the chaff, so that he succumbs to it is not surprising
well, it was really gary thomasson--the great, giant, fan
Language of the McCoven--TWSS!, Meh!, STFD!, Bork!, Fail!, STFD! STFD! STFD!
by greatgiantfan on Mar 10, 2010 5:34 PM PST up reply actions
‘dropping a growler’
Utter frustration and futility.
by Johnny Disaster on Mar 10, 2010 6:35 PM PST up reply actions
Excellent use of Krukism
I know you nerds know NOTHING about the real game of baseball, or any other athletic endeavor requiring teamwork under physical stress.
Mr. F! | comics | art | New Nattowear | Unofficial McImage Directory