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Open Thread - Game 38 - A's @ Rangers

Countdown_tiny by Taj Adib on Comment 391 comments

Oakland Athletics at Texas Rangers, May 10, 2008 5:05 PM PDT


There's no doubt that this season has gotten off to a fairly odd start in the AL West. First off, the A's, supposedly in full-fledged rebuilding mode and without much hope of being competitive, have rode fantastic starting pitching and thoroughly un-Athletic-like clutch hitting to remain tied for first in the division 6 weeks into the campaign. Then there is Seattle, who, reloaded with a second ace (Bedard) and a solid innings-eater (Silva) seemed primed to build off of a nice 2007 and actually compete for the division...only to start slow out of the gate and look like the same old, middling Mariners. And what to make of the Rangers? We all assumed that by this time Ron Washington would be fired and that Milton Bradley would have lost his temper and another ACL or two along the way...but instead, in the oddity of all oddities so far this season, the attention has shifted to the Rangers' surprising pitching staff.

That's right, the words "good", "pitching" and "Rangers" have actually been seen in the same sentance recently. In fact, Texas pitchers have an aggreate, major-league-leading  ERA of 1.71 in the month of May and have only allowed one run in the last 41 innings, tossing 3 straight shutouts along the way. Granted, most of those innings were tossed in a pitching-friendly environment (Safeco Field) and against unspectacular offenses (Seattle, Oakland), however, for a staff boasting the likes of Vicente "Swisher Hatin' Me" Padilla, Sidney "This is my 5th Last Chance" Ponson and a cadre of AAAA-fodder, this latest run is definitely a surprise.

Luckily for the A's, Texas will actually be sending their "ace" to the mound tonight in the form of Kevin Millwood, who is pretty much the only Texas pitcher not riding some sort of hot streak. On the year, Millwood is 2-3 with a 4.94 ERA and is coming off of an ugly 7 run/9 hit/3 inning performance against Seattle last week.  He's 3-3 with a 4.34 ERA in 10 career appearances versus the Green & Gold.  

Dana Eveland will take the hill tonight in Arlington for the A's. Dana's been pretty solid so far this season, with a 6.5 K/9 rate and 1.23 WHiP. He's issuing a tad too many walks at nearly 4 per game, but he's been remarkably adept at keeping the ball in the park to limit the damage, as he has only allowed one homerun so far this season for an impressive .22 HR per 9 innings rate. However, Dana's been extremely lucky with his Batting-Average-to-Balls-in-Play rate, which currently sits at an unsustainable and well-below league average mark of .270. Combine that stat with the Ballpark at Arlington's hitter-friendly confines and with the disconcerting fact that Dana "felt something pop" in his elbow during his start last Monday, and you have to be a little concerned that the bottom could fall out for him tonight, especially since he has a tendency to rely too heavily on his fastball (which could be a risky proposition tonight against fastball feasters such as Josh Hamilton and Milton Bradley).

Notes

- Eric Chavez FINALLY did some fielding work yesterday on his road to recovery. There remains a chance that he'll be ready to come off the DL when his 60-days are over on May 27th, but I highly doubt it. The team should just DL him until the All-Star Break.

- TBuck finally had a decent game at the plate last night for the RiverCats, grabbing 3 hits in 5 at-bats, including a homer. And the reward he gets for busting out of his slump? Well, an option back down to Sacramento of course, now that his Rehab Stint is over! Can't say that this is a surprising move, considering his abysmal start to the season and the fact that Emil Brown has been performing so well in the clutch and Suzuki is doing a decent job in the leadoff spot. Hopefully, Travis can find his stroke back in Sacto alongside CarGon.

Lineups

OAK

Suzuki - C

Barton - 1B

Cust - LF

Thomas - DH

Brown - RF

Crosby - SS

Ellis - 2B

Hannahan - 3B

Sweeney - CF

TEX

Kinsler - 2B

Young - SS

Hamilton - CF

Bradley - DH

Murphy - RF

Boggs - LF

Laird - C

Shelton - 1B

German - 3B

With Rich Harden coming back for possibly one of his only starts tomorrow it would be really nice to snag this game tonight in order to set up a series-clincher tomorrow. Cust and Thomas have both been swinging the bat decently the past week or so and let's hope they can get the offense back on track this evening.

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Excellent summary, Taj

Would anyone else like to see Bowen get to start a game? Suzuki’s not going to hold up playing this many innings for too much longer.

Also, Crosby needs a day off (some would argue he needs more than a day…).

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 4:56 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Hey, BoCro has a .684 OPS

That’s better than last year! And the year before!

What happened to him all of a sudden being awesome with his new approach?

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:03 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i have been saying this for weeks

suzuki, crosby and ellis all need days off once in a while, that’s why bowen and murphy are on the roster. someone tell bob f’ing geren.

A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05

by xbhaskarx on May 10, 2008 5:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I thought it was the start before last that Eveland "felt something pop".

He went 7 innings and won the start against Baltimore on Monday.

by WaddellCanseco on May 10, 2008 4:59 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

you're right, it was the previous start

his last start was perhaps his best so far.

by OaklandSi on May 10, 2008 5:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I posted a fan shot about Buck's being optioned

before seeing that you included it in the game thread intro.

Also, Kiko Calero will be doing some rehab pitching in Sacramento, according to Geren.

As long as Bowen doesn’t completely blow an easy popup - as he did last Friday - I’m fine with him starting more often. (I wonder what the pitchers have to say about his game calling?)

by OaklandSi on May 10, 2008 5:00 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Quick question

what’s the song used in the intro video for kicu games?

by muffinpryde on May 10, 2008 5:02 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

it's just the beginning of the telecast

but the reception looks better than usual.

(yes I did email Mark from TV36 and he responded promptly that he’d pass on my message with my location to the engineer….the telecast looks LOTS better right now!

by OaklandSi on May 10, 2008 5:04 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Tom Grieve

for some reason reminds me of John Spencer, the late actor who played Leo McGarry on The West Wing. Looks vaguely like him and even sounds a bit like him.

Anybody else a little surprised that Buck was optioned and not Sweeney?

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:06 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Grieve's okay...

but that smarmy bastard Lewin is the worst. At least Hawk has age/senility as an excuse for being annoying.

by elhefe on May 10, 2008 5:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think they still trust Sweeney in CF more than they trust Buck there

which means they really don’t trust Buck much there at all.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:08 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sweeney's not bad in CF. Obviously he's not great either.

Buck needs some time to refind his swing. It’s better he does that in AAA.

by OldhamA on May 10, 2008 5:14 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

not at all

Buck hasn’t really gotten untracked offensivel yet

by OaklandSi on May 10, 2008 5:14 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Okay, we get it. Boggs's family comes to Rangers games.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:09 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Millwood's last fastball was 89 mph

That’s pretty good evidence that something’s wrong with him.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:11 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Huge chance to win two games here. Millwood's injured, so hopefully

we can wear out their bullpen tonight so they’re not available tomorrow.

by OldhamA on May 10, 2008 5:12 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

woah..what happened?

I go pee and now Millwood’s out?

by Amnesiac on May 10, 2008 5:12 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

So you're saying it's your fault?

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well I have always held a strong belief that Im awesome

if true, then I really underestimated my abilities

by Amnesiac on May 10, 2008 5:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ordinarily I'd look forward to 8 1/3 innings against the Rangers' bullpen

but given the team’s scoreless streak, who knows what’ll happen?

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:13 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Having recently had

a round of back spasms myself…that looked painfully familiar. Not sure if that’s what it was, though.

by Soaker on May 10, 2008 5:13 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Josh Rupe's season stats:

0-1, 4.74 ERA, 19 IP, 15 hits 10 ER, 8 BB, 8 K

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on May 10, 2008 5:14 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

LoL he said

“Rangers the talk of baseball”.. LoL

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on May 10, 2008 5:15 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Their pitching staff's ERA is 6th in the AL since April 25th!!!

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

ZOMG!!

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on May 10, 2008 5:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thank God for baseball

The world is in a good place again.

by paradox on May 10, 2008 5:17 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

The question with FT's hitting this season

is whether pitchers will decide that his SLG is low enough the justify just throwing it down the middle and daring him to hit it.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:19 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Really, at this point if I were pitching to him I'd just pound the strike zone with fastballs until he proved he could crush one.

Of course, my fastball is about 55 mph, so he’d rake, but I think it would be a good idea for a real pitcher to try.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh you know.

just another saturday, a great day for self inflicted stomach pain that is rooting for the A’s

by Amnesiac on May 10, 2008 5:21 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I log on and see all 3 of

Suzuki, Crosby and Ellis playing again. I guess Geren is going to play those guys till they just cant play anymore huh?

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 5:21 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Alright, everyone be honest:

If you’d found out before this series that one of the starters would get hurt in the 1st inning and have to come out after 12 pitches, who would have guessed it would be Milwood?

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:22 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Wow, we have only 3 hitters who have an EQA above average

while playing with the A’s.

Jack Cust, Mike Sweeney and Frank Thomas.

And only two really can play at a time…

I put on my robe and wizard hat.

by Zonis on May 10, 2008 5:22 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

And Buck

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I didnt get to see Barton any last year, so I will have to take A's fans word for it

but I dont get it. I just dont see where he is some stud hitter. Maybe he needs a few years in the bigs. But I just havent seen him do anything but walk and strikeout. A below average fielding Cust with little power.

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 5:31 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's 22 years old. Let's simmer a little.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

And I agree with you -- he's still very young.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm still wondering about whether his hand is bothering him

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Besides the fact he's 22. He has great judgement of the strikezone, a quick

bat and doubles power (at the moment). He’s not going to be all world, but he should hit at a .300 clip in the bigs. When you factor in how much he walks he’ll be a very valuable player.

by OldhamA on May 10, 2008 5:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Super-Hatteberg!

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Suzuki's is above average

Average EQA for a catcher is much lower than what his is.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:33 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its sad man

dude has sooooo much talent. Cant keep his emotions in check

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 5:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Me Too

and this song they are playing…

by drink409 on May 10, 2008 6:09 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Im not jelous of the Rangers for much

but Hamilton is a stud. He would look good in an A’s uni if he stays sober.

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 5:26 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

We're going to hate Hamilton aren't we.

And seriously, isn’t it time Milton got injured?

by OldhamA on May 10, 2008 5:26 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

RAWR!

"Hasn’t the foggiest inclination toward winning ‘tall. Hates to win. Likes to be buggered."

by Jennifer on May 10, 2008 5:27 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Hmmm...

Hamilton then Bradley…didn’t call that one or anything.

by Taj Adib on May 10, 2008 5:27 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

That was a pretty terrible pitch by Eveland

He’s luck it was just a double.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:27 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Yeah

the umpires have been shitty consistently this season so far

As long as both teams get the same shitty zone

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 5:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Come on offense...

I can’t take anymore of this scoreless inning talk…

by jonahbartlett on May 10, 2008 5:30 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

WTF

Anyone else just lose KICU????

Swisher on Ellis - "every day he does something that makes me say, 'Well, I'll be damned, look at that!'"

by Mantecan As Fan on May 10, 2008 5:32 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

no, as a matter of fact

the reception is clearer than every before

by OaklandSi on May 10, 2008 5:37 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

shit must just be me in the central valley then....

Swisher on Ellis - "every day he does something that makes me say, 'Well, I'll be damned, look at that!'"

by Mantecan As Fan on May 10, 2008 5:38 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

RE: Texas Feed

Why The Hell Are You Interviewing People In The Stands When THeres A Game Going On????

by Amnesiac on May 10, 2008 5:33 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

They always do that. Every. Single. Game.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I call it annoying

I dont watch baseball games for the families, I watch them for the baseball game being played

by Amnesiac on May 10, 2008 5:37 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's why I can't watch Giants' games

It’s like the guys have ADHD and can’t keep focused on the game, so they feel necessary to show the crowd and comment on them constant. It’s like “hey there’s a game on!! can we watch it?”

by drink409 on May 10, 2008 5:42 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, it's a good move

Even if we dont care about some Arlington high school girls whatever that was. And they do it in the 2nd inning or some early, usually relatively unimportant part of the game.

It’s not like the Cubs interviewing dopes during the bottom of the 7th when there’s often a ton of excitement going on on the field.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:37 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree man

what got them here is good at bats and working the count. Dont seem to be doing that lately

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 5:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh my god

they put up a “Nerd Alert” graphic when they talk statistics… that’s…embarassing.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:38 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Do they put up a "Dumb Jock Alert" graphic

when they talk about gritty, clutch players or performances?

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 5:39 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wait

Fosse and Co actually believe that we HAVE power?

I put on my robe and wizard hat.

by Zonis on May 10, 2008 5:40 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

To be fair

That looked like a strike to Supermannahan. I’ll take it though.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:41 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Bad Sweeney = True Athletic.

Raise your claws if you didn’t see that coming.

More than just ANtics: http://www.louisgray.com/live/

by louismg on May 10, 2008 5:42 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

ARGH!!

The guy couldn’t hit the zone- why swing at the first pitch??? BAD SWEENEY!!!!

by jonahbartlett on May 10, 2008 5:42 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

No shit man

all these guys do that. Did it last night too. Get a pitcher in trouble and then come out and try to be the friggen hero and swing at the first pitch, I dont get it.

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 5:44 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Bad Sweeney needs to work on that

He hit it so hard, it almost resulted in an error. He needs to work on the easy 3 hopper in those situations.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:43 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

That was frustrating.

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 5:43 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

That was a good pitch to hit

He just butchered it into the gorund

This is the real A’s baseball here.

Not surprised at all

We do not want to be the team to give them their scoreless streak of 39 innings or whatever it is

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 5:45 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Ok, this scoreless streak thing is getting on my nerves

I want the A’s to put up a 12 spot now.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:47 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

But only to mess with the scoreless streak -

winning would just be a bonus.

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on May 10, 2008 5:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, in a normal situation I'd take 2 runs

But I’m feeling a bit greedy.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

AAH! DR. EARL HOLLOWAY!!

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 5:48 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

"Exercise...or you'll look...like I...sound..." {dies}

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on May 10, 2008 5:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dont get the love either

He is not a great Centerfielder and he has zero power as a corner Outfilder. Thats why im on my couch and they make the big bucks I guess.

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 5:52 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sure why not?

God forbid anybody notice we’re in first place.

More than just ANtics: http://www.louisgray.com/live/

by louismg on May 10, 2008 5:49 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I was going to make a Linden joke

then decided to look him up. He hasn’t played in a couple weeks. What’s wrong with him?

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:49 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Can he pitch?

Or coach?

More than just ANtics: http://www.louisgray.com/live/

by louismg on May 10, 2008 5:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, I know that

But I don’t think you can put a guy on the 7-day DL for general sucktitude.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

How have the Rangers had a gazillion scoreless innings?

So far nobody in their staff can hit the strikezone.

by OldhamA on May 10, 2008 5:52 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Yay.

My commute to the Coliseum will be made easier just in time for the A’s move to Fremont.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 5:53 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

You could always have the Original Stadium crew

you and pam5981 would be sitting in the Coliseum, cheering, by yourselves..

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 5:54 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

YOU have to be there, too.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 5:55 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd have to drive to Fremont

decide it sucks, and drive BACK to the Coliseum..

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 5:56 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Im gonna slap someone with my pimp hand

if we don’t score in the next inning or two

by Amnesiac on May 10, 2008 5:53 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Keep that pimp hand strong!

Slap someone regardless.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:54 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jack Cust = The Man

Can’t we bat him 1-9?

More than just ANtics: http://www.louisgray.com/live/

by louismg on May 10, 2008 5:55 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

HE... IS...

SPARTACUST

Come on, Big Hurt, take advantage of that 90 degree Texas air.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:55 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Oh hell no

that was right at him

by butler19 on May 10, 2008 5:57 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

+1

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:57 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wow

For what it’s worth (nothing), as soon as I saw Laird set up inside I thought “he’s getting hit on this pitch.”

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:57 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Good call

I was in the process of calling a GIDP…and really I wasn’t that far off, but I’ll take the outcome!

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 5:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

We could count one of them toward the next inning....

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

oblique's an overachiever.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's a stupid rule.

Is that true in the NL too?

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

What a clutch...whatever the heck that was.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 5:58 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

YAY!

Now let’s drive in two more Bobby

by jonahbartlett on May 10, 2008 5:58 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Ahh, Rangerball!

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 5:59 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

LOL

He should have just tried to get Frank at 2nd instead.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 5:59 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Emil Brown: clutch.

stat-addled alien overlord

by salb918 on May 10, 2008 5:59 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

sal doesn't believe in spirits.

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Colorless...odorless..

can’t really prove it exists…

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:02 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Just a song, right?

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh my!

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

random thought

How often does somebody get a hit w/RISP but not get an RBI? That has to be fairly rare (though it’s not really weird that it happens)

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:02 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

We will take it

Thank God other teams make errors or we would still be scoreless

Go A’s

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 6:03 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Someone with a view...

was that as bad as Ken and Vince are making it sound?

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:04 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Yes

if you mean the throw to first that was nowhere near first.

The candy and the baseball all night long :)

by Englishmajor on May 10, 2008 6:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Better than tract marks

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Where?

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

On both forearms and his right bicep.

Not something you generally see on ball players.

by OldhamA on May 10, 2008 6:09 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I remember

from the flip this house or whatever that was done where the guy on it brought him in to do the project management and then eventually to try to help him get back into baseball. He has a lot of them all over.

In search of a new signature. Say something funny and you may see your comment here!

by DMOAS on May 10, 2008 6:12 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

WHY?!?!

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:08 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Was it completely necessary to get rid of Bradley?

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:09 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Jeez, that Milton really holds a grudge

The candy and the baseball all night long :)

by Englishmajor on May 10, 2008 6:09 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Can we call Hamilton wasted talent anymore?

He’s clean and seems to have his life together. His talented isn’t wasted; it was just sidetracked.

I don’t care what team he plays for, I’ll always root for him.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

This is EXACTLY what I meant

when I wrote the “Tick…Tick…” piece about our OF defense. Those two runs don’t score if Kinsler’s ball is caught as it should have been. It’s going to cost the A’s dearly if they insist on putting such a bad defensive OF out there.

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on May 10, 2008 6:09 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I hate when the writing is on the wall

and the A’s don’t adjust until it costs them. I don’t mind saying “I told you so” but I do mind saying “Don’t make us say I told you so” to no avail. Ryan Sweeney is pretty much single handedly deciding this game. :-(

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on May 10, 2008 6:12 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The A's are a city, a city vulnerable to earthquakes

a city building huge skyscrapers that are not earthquake proof and justifying it by saying “oh but we havent had one in 30 years!”

by Amnesiac on May 10, 2008 6:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Kinsler's ball should've been caught?

I must’ve missed something. Looked like a solid single to me. Unless I’m thinking of some other play.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

It only looked that way because Sweeney misjudged it

so badly that he didn’t come close to it – it was actually a very catchable ball if he gets a good jump instead of freezing or starting back.

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on May 10, 2008 6:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hey Poppy...

Who was that manager we had, before Geren, before Macha? Art .. something?

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:10 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Oops.

I screwed up.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:11 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

<>

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hey, look at that.

<> works in the subject line now.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:14 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Raisin?

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't have a problem with someone admiring a home run

Never have.

I have a problem with someone serving it up on a plate.

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 6:11 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

+1

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Our pitching has been great

but it is common sense to realize it is not going to stay that way as evidenced here.

We need to start hitting the long ball and putting up more runs. The slugging percentage has to start rising

Go A’s.

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 6:13 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

if this what the rook pitchers look like...

the second time a team sees them, then we better hope Harden pitches 175 innings. Only pitch the rooks against teams who haven’t seen them. Start Gaudin the second time around.

Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb

by FoolshGame22 on May 10, 2008 6:14 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I dont think it was Second time last night

Smith just didnt have good control at all. He is a control pitcher so its kind of important. Even without his best stuff he kept his team in the game.

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 6:16 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

2 on, nobody out

So A’s score nothing this inning, right?

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

NO, WE'RE NOT!

IT’S ALREADY THE 4TH INNING! GAME OVER!

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

WE'RE ALL DEAD!

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:19 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

for Sacramento

(seriously, he’s been better lately. I still don’t care for him too much)

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yes, or at least he should before Suzuki

The A's colors are green and gold.

by mikeA on May 10, 2008 6:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Come on Bad Sweeney.

Perhaps you have a sense of responsibility, and feel the need to atone for your sins?

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:18 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Well, he is Catholic.

Is this Heaven? No, it's Iowa. -Field of Dreams

by IowaA'sFan on May 10, 2008 6:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Bradley should loan Sween-dog

his magic RBI wand.

Is this Heaven? No, it's Iowa. -Field of Dreams

by IowaA'sFan on May 10, 2008 6:18 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Did I say Bradley?

Brownie, that is.

Is this Heaven? No, it's Iowa. -Field of Dreams

by IowaA'sFan on May 10, 2008 6:19 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

In 2007 and so far in 2008, every

A’s plate appearance that has gone 3-0 has resulted in a walk.

In 2006, the A’s went 4-8 with 1 HR, 1 2B, and 155 walks in 163 plate appearances that went 3-0 (26 were intentional walks). That’s a .975 OBP.

stat-addled alien overlord

by salb918 on May 10, 2008 6:18 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Cust hit the double on 3-0.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:19 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sweeney still amazes me

He is a big tall dude that looks super athletic but has little power

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 6:19 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

They talk about his BP power

It’s weird that he hasn’t translated it yet. But, again, he’s still really young and might develop into a 20-HR guy.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ya but it wouldn't in the majors yet.

Maybe Sweeney needs more seasoning. A pinch of oregano, cilantro, chopped onions…

by WaddellCanseco on May 10, 2008 6:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Damn you

now I’m hungry

Ooo! Piece of candy!

by ChickenStanley on May 10, 2008 6:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

mmm, Yummy Sweeney...

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good job by the A's really working Rupe.

Going to the third pitcher in just the 4th inning is huge (especially for tomorrow).

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on May 10, 2008 6:22 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Made him throw 68 pitches in 3

That’s pretty good… of course, runs are nice too.

Is this Heaven? No, it's Iowa. -Field of Dreams

by IowaA'sFan on May 10, 2008 6:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Strike 2 to Barton was a terrible call

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 6:26 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Get a good hop,

make a bad throw.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:29 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

NIce inning there

Keeps Eveland on the mound longer

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 6:31 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Angels don't walk

they fly too close to the ground

OZZIE GUILLEN IS A CHILD MOLESTING CARCINOGEN

by gimpy989 on May 10, 2008 6:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

naw

its because they don’t take themselves too seriously

yes you can shoot me for saying that

Ooo! Piece of candy!

by ChickenStanley on May 10, 2008 6:37 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

god damn it

Everybody knew it was coming!

by paradox on May 10, 2008 6:40 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

It was too down the middle

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on May 10, 2008 6:41 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

[shakes head]

Time for toasted cheese, I’m not in the mood for clam linguini. However you spell it.

I’ll just go cook, I bitch too much.

by paradox on May 10, 2008 6:42 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

New thread mojo!

This team needs a kickstart!

by Taj Adib on May 10, 2008 6:42 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

What a fucking horrible at bat

You struck out twice on that at bat

How can U take the second pitch when the one before was essentially strike 3?

The mind boggles!!!!

Someone please answer that?

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 6:42 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Yeah good reply

He is NOT VERY GOOD

We need middle infielders expecially if Chavy does not come back (sounds like he will though)

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 6:43 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Whats sad is Jack H.

actually has a better OPS then anyone not named Cust

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 6:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

The ump

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 6:42 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

...has been calling those balls when Eveland throws them

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 6:43 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree with that

We can deal Street with him since we have better arms in ther pen as well.

I would not be upset if we dealt Blanton as well and put Gaudin back in the pen but Joe does keep us in most games..

What could we get for Crosby and Street?

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 6:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

a burger

maybe some curly fries

by Amnesiac on May 10, 2008 6:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I still would not deal Harden

I know hes hurt more often that not but if somehow (Magically) he could start 15-20 games we would win 80 percent of them because he is far too good for most hitters when on.

You know if we trade him he never gets hurt again and could you just imagine him pitching to our hitters?

Enough said.

by Trainman on May 10, 2008 6:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

That is very cool

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on May 10, 2008 6:54 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

ooooooo

I want that

Ooo! Piece of candy!

by ChickenStanley on May 10, 2008 6:59 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

WE'RE ALL GONNA DIE!!!

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:50 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

what is it about 2 outs and nobody on

that is such a dang challenge for Eveland tonight…

by EastVillageA on May 10, 2008 6:52 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

We got so lucky on another poor OF defensive play -

Brown has to cut that ball off and he should hit the cutoff man. But lame-o 3B coaching (thank you) to hold Young at third.

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on May 10, 2008 6:53 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Might not like Milton Bradley

but the dude is a great fielder and and has a crappy OPS of .951 this year

by asfaninpismobeach on May 10, 2008 6:54 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

TV36's new "Snapfish" photo moment...

Photo of Greg Smith in hot throwback uni, by Sara Swanson of Fremont.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:55 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

OGT?

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 6:56 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Is there a NGT?

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 6:57 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes...

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 7:08 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

ARARARAJU

What’s the A’s problem
K
K?

by MobiusKlein on May 10, 2008 6:58 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Apparently there's a new game thread.

But fuck it, I’m pretty sick of this.

I have [null set] to say.

by Poppy on May 10, 2008 7:01 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm going to a bar to watch the rest of this.

I think watching it will actually be less painful than Korach describing it—nothing against Korach; it’s just a painful game and he’s bringing it across well.

"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL

by oblique on May 10, 2008 7:09 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

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