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A's: Don't Just Tease Me, Please Me

As_kings_cal_tiny by louismg on Comment 206 comments

Remember how this morning (yes, hours ago) I said that following a loss it can feel like the A's just wasted everybody's time and the next step is destroying nearby furniture? Well, today's no different. Not because the A's were held scoreless, or struck out 27 times or some other nonsense, but because, again, they played just poorly enough to lose. They teased us early on with back to back home runs and holding a 2-0 lead for the first half of the game, and they even bothered to tease us at the end of the game, scoring one in the ninth to keep the deficit at a single tally. The A's were even courteous enough to put the tying run on first with two outs in the ninth, bringing the leading run to the plate.

But guess what, green and gold? The point is not to tease. It is to please, and I'm not pleased. While were pleased that Emil "Don't Call Me RBI Machine" Brown got 2 of the A's 3 RBI and that Greg Smith still shows an unparalleled ability to pick runners off base (any base, it appears), the end result is still the same. You lost. And it was in the same lackluster fashion. Bobby Crosby posting a double play in a critical situation, and ending the game with a weak grounder to the 3rd to close it out.

The A's of recent years built their reputation around getting on base, taking pitches and wearing out opposing pitchers, but the team didn't get a base on balls until there were already two out in the ninth. They did, however, manage to again rack up a good number of strikeouts, posting 7, thanks to James Shields keeping batters unsteady. The lack of runners on base meant that when the A's did hit home runs, they were solo shots, and Shields was strong enough to enter the 9th inning before giving way to Percival. That's not how you wear a guy out. But it's how you wear me out.

And despite my best intentions, Brooks Conrad has extended his hitless streak to 10 at bats to start off his MLB career, racking up 2 more K's for a total of 5. Sorry dude, that's not even a tease.

The A's have tomorrow off and resume teasing us Friday against Texas at 7:05 PM. Maybe the roster will be unchanged. Maybe not. There's my tease for you.

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I love Billy Beane

But is it time to consider that Billy/Money Ball has run its course and we aren’t fooling anyone any longer?

I miss Eric Plunk

by chuckcheeze on Jul 23, 2008 12:33 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A GM

with a different view on hitters. Aggressive hitters, game changers… we just don’t have any threats. Nobody is scared of the A’s coming to town except the A’s, who are scared of who will get traded next for a bunch of prospects with a good eye for keeping the bat on their shoulder.

I miss Eric Plunk

by chuckcheeze on Jul 23, 2008 12:47 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I dont really know any longer

Everyone comes to the plate and they are the same hitter. Even when our power (Cust) hits a HR it is a surprise. I’m not saying its easy to hit MLB pitching, but how many of us really sit there are know that a player can be clutch during a game. In a scoring situation, I bet the VAST majority of us fans are praying for them to NOT do what they usually do, like GIDP, rather than hoping for them to do something that most other teams could do, like get a hit with RISP.

I miss Eric Plunk

by chuckcheeze on Jul 23, 2008 12:59 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm wondering if this is a troll account

You’ve somehow managed to hit every “ridiculous criticism of sabr-philosophy” button in the space of three posts.

I smell a rat.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 1:43 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You are, however,

as you’ve freely admitted, conspiratorially-minded. And skittish. And easily distracted by shiny objects….wait, that’s me, isn’t it?

....never mind.

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 2:14 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ohhhh shiny!!!

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

by DMOAS on Jul 23, 2008 7:39 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Where?! WHERE?!

Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands..."Does your little iddy biddy back hurt, Bobby?! Does it, you SOB?!" -Alox

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 8:00 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Relax dude

Im just frustrated

I miss Eric Plunk

by chuckcheeze on Jul 23, 2008 3:45 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

okay, here’s the deal:

Ellis/Cust for a PE coach, an orange level terror alert, and the corpse of Hitler.

oh, did you say hitter? well, the smell is aggressive.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 12:56 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah

Forget the polliwog, bric-a-brac, fly the the seat of your begonia’s barrel roll of sassafras. Put on the gumption and snizzle the wicks.

Applesauce.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 12:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Billy has just failed for a few years now to field a team with average

hitters. The hitting on this team is just horrendous. When your biggest threat in the lineup is Jack Cust, that’s just pretty sad . . .

by oaktownmario on Jul 23, 2008 12:44 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

and here I was thinking of changing my sig.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 12:36 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I know we are "rebuilding",

but I swear, I wouldn’t be disappointed to see Beane start clearing house. Motivation as it were. And I don’t mean dealing pieces that contribute. Just start shedding dead weight.

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 12:40 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

wouldn't that mean a contract for Ellis?

This is my pet peeve with ownership – why not reward the players who are successful at what you’ve asked them to do? When are you going to reward a player for his performance, rather than what you’ll think he’s gonna do? (i.e. Chavez, Crosby, Street, Barton, Buck even) ?

Chavez is the only guy the A’s have spent long-term on, and he’s not even the damn team captain.

My favorite part of this game was hearing about Geren getting in the umps face for the Pena HBP. If he’d a gotten tossed, I think we might have won this game on pure adrenaline.

But there’s no stat for adrenaline, is there?

[/frustation]

Bob Geren, on 8/2/07, on the success of Alan Embree as new interim closer: "What can I say,... he's been our Steady Tremendous Bullpen Man"

by popcornjames on Jul 23, 2008 1:22 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

w.o.w.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 1:38 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm not into online gaming

Bob Geren, on 8/2/07, on the success of Alan Embree as new interim closer: "What can I say,... he's been our Steady Tremendous Bullpen Man"

by popcornjames on Jul 23, 2008 1:53 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

day games, dude

Who needs competence as long as everyone smiles? @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 23, 2008 1:53 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

don't eff with the Jesus man!

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 2:14 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

right, right. I gotta keep telling myself that.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 2:28 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

did I say something wrong?

Does this have to do with general venting in specific subject threads?

throw me a bone, I dunno what yall are talkin bout

Bob Geren, on 8/2/07, on the success of Alan Embree as new interim closer: "What can I say,... he's been our Steady Tremendous Bullpen Man"

by popcornjames on Jul 23, 2008 2:39 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This road trip effectively

seals the A’s this season, I think. If we could’ve come home, even at 4-2, we could probably have convinced the FO to be buyers, not sellers. But I think the 1-5 pretty much seals the deal.

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 12:41 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The FO gave up a while ago.

If they weren’t convinced by how well the A’s performed before the Harden trade, nothing was going to convince them. They might have done the same if they were tied for first.

"PECOTA can pretty much kiss my ass."-Nico

by jeepers on Jul 23, 2008 8:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

brooks conrad - the un-ziggy?

wishing mr. “heart of darkness” conrad the best of luck in not setting an AL record of hitless ABs to start a career..

Hi ho.

by danh on Jul 23, 2008 12:42 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Could be worse

Check out the Royals today.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 23, 2008 12:45 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ahem.

Not that I think anyone will (or should) pay attention, but, if I may say so, the A’s are not this bad. We’re watching what will probably be the worst stretch of the season, but it won’t last.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 12:49 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Agreed.

But that doesn’t mean that the FO won’t use it as impetus to completely go into rebuilding mode.

We’ve got a lot of talent on the field right now.

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 12:51 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't agree that there is that much talent.

Several guys are young but not good (Hannahan, Conrad, Bankston).

I love Gonzalez, R. Sweeney and Suzuki they have talent. Add in a few other guys and we have a very good team. (unfortunately those guys are on the DL)

by Yellowhorse on Jul 23, 2008 12:55 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hannahan and Conrad are older than average for this team

They are “young” only in the service-time sense.

And while I like Hannahan as a guy, and like his story, and recognize that he’s gritty and competitive and all that jazz, the one thing that he clearly lacks is actual baseball talent. There’s a reason why you hear Josh Hamilton’s story over and over again in the national media while Hannahan’s (basically identical) story might have gotten a once-over three years ago—and it has absolutely nothing to do with the moral character of either of them.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 1:47 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Are you saying

(gasp!)

that the media might be every bit as guilty of falling in love with the stories of atheletes that only perform well?! Surely, no one is that crass.

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 2:17 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Shocking, isn't it?

You might almost think the media were cynical.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 5:06 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And Yellowhorse

What the heck always happens to your posts? Why is there a block quote of your text that kinda leads off to nowhere?

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 2:18 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree

So many good hitters are injured and we faced some very good pitchers.

Also, Ellis, Street and Crosby have really performed miserably. Perhaps, the trade rumors/ trades are impacting their game.

If we had decent play from them then we are probably 4-4 over last 8 games.

by Yellowhorse on Jul 23, 2008 12:52 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

a loss perhaps, but some good things too..

1. Number of saves that Huston Street blew today: Zero!
2. The Duke: still an A
3. Not starting in center field: Charles Thomas
4. No post game wrap with Ken Macha
5. No Ken Macha commercials for On Demand Golf Tips From the Pros either
6. Terance Long/Ricardo Rincon
7. One day closer to January 20, 2009
8. Marketing Dept closer to going back to the future with new/old “They’re young, but they can play!”
9. A’s still have room in budget for mowing outfield grass AND infield grass
10. At least you’re not a Giants fan

Hi ho.

by danh on Jul 23, 2008 12:51 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

See, #10 is what I am talking about

Look at Bowker – comes out of nowhere and has a 269/9/39. Not killer but a legit threat at the plate. We don’t have anyone capable of that.

I miss Eric Plunk

by chuckcheeze on Jul 23, 2008 12:56 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

fiduglasjhbgalskfjg;aisugiurw

you want Bowker? lolcakes.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 12:58 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I didnt say I want him

I said I want players with his level of aggression – and he isn’t even that aggressive.

I miss Eric Plunk

by chuckcheeze on Jul 23, 2008 1:01 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

how about people that actually contribute to run scoring?

sigh.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 1:02 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Beane should sign Mike Tyson

Who needs competence as long as everyone smiles? @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 23, 2008 1:14 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Mmm... ear.

Tasty!

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

by DMOAS on Jul 23, 2008 7:46 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well then!

Now that is looking on the bright side of life! I like it!

"He's day-to-day," Geren said. "But aren't we all?" - 5/29/08

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Jul 23, 2008 2:36 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I am so praying for a mass exodus in trades and DFA's

Then we can watch what is left play and gain experience for next year.

I am not bitter about this season because they gave us a good first half and played way over their heads considering the injuries etc.

Anyone with a brain knows this team has an exciting future on the pitching front but we need some big bats and bats that go up there swinging. Big bats cost big money so the question is, how do we get them?

I am not Nostradamus but I think Ellis will be gone due to recent trades and I don’t even think he will keep Duke. (I would like to see them keep both)

Crosby and Street need to be gone like last year.

The others (who are not performing) who are not worth much, need not be mentioned due to being mentioned a million times in other posts.

ST next year should be very interesting.

All I would like to see this year is Frank and Sweeney Sr. get back and we score some more runs and play hard and beat the Angels just because we hate them.

Oh and one final thing, K-Rod viewing a 3,000 mph line drive missile coming right back at him.

Go A’s

by Trainman on Jul 23, 2008 12:57 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Chavez & Crosby

are sunk costs. The quicker the A’s are able to replace them the better.

The A’s would be thriving with a league average offense filled with Ethier types. This isn’t asking for the moon out of Beane & Forst,

These guys are unwatchable and my guess is that there will be crickets heard in Mt Davis in August & September.

by DKNJ on Jul 23, 2008 1:00 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Who would want them?

Chavez is apparently taking the year off – and why a better alternative than Hannahan wasn’t obtained in these many trades I have no idea – and Crosby doesn’t have the kind of glove to make his weak offense attractive to anyone.

I’m trying to decide if last year’s team was duller than this group of misfits, and I’m close to saying no.

by coffee roaster on Jul 23, 2008 1:18 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A better alternative than Hannahan was obtained

...for 2010/2011.

When, you know, Chavez’s contract actually expires.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 1:51 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Why does his contract need to be expired for a better alternative to Hannahan?

Chavez is a non-entity on this team. Anybody who thinks otherwise is fooling themselves.

by mikev on Jul 23, 2008 1:54 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Who did you want them to get prior to 2007?

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:24 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Prior to three surgeries?

It didn’t really seem to be as serious of an issue as it is now, did it?

by mikev on Jul 23, 2008 4:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

OK so who should they have gotten in before this season?

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:35 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well he was the Dodger 3B. Then he need surgery.

First he would have been too expensive. Then he would have been a massive risk. Now he may be just right.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 6:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Whats the Deal with Chavez anyways?

Its been a long time with no info. He was supposed to take 2 weeks off then go on rehab. That wasover 3 weeks ago.

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 1:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I thought after a 2 week rest we was gonna go to AAA

and see how he felt then decide.

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 1:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's what is so funny about Chavez.

Everybody keeps talking about “When Chavez is back” as if he’s going to actually be back any time soon.

Then, everybody assumes that he’ll be back, and 100%, and performing like it’s 2004 all over again. He’s just not going to.

by mikev on Jul 23, 2008 1:24 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I believe he could be good if he was healthy.

But yeah your right. Hes just not gonna be healthy.

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 1:26 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I believe he could be good if he was healthy.

But yeah your right. Hes just not gonna be healthy.

by DFAMarkKotsay on Nov 11, 2007 11:11 AM PDT

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 1:53 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wow, man,

I took too much….I’ve got like, terminal deja vu….

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 2:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So what your trying to say is

we should get a good bullpen arm for him?

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 2:28 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's not inconceivable he'll be healthy enough to play by next spring.

Crede basically did that.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Crede and Kotsay had very similar issues

and took a long time to be ready to play again.

I don’t understand why everyone around here is so f’ing impatient sometimes.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 4:52 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The meta-answer would be

the attitude’s the result of living in a consumerist society, which grows increasingly intolerant of anything taking any time at all. But…that’s only my opinion and leads down a road of discussion we probably don’t want to engage in this particular forum, nor does it have anything to do with Chavez and his ailments, except possibly tangentially: a path I enjoy immensely, but annoys others. You, among them.

Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands..."Does your little iddy biddy back hurt, Bobby?! Does it, you SOB?!" -Alox

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 5:09 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well said.

I’ve always wanted to post that.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 5:30 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I can relate....

but i got bored half way through the post and lost my attention, I wanted a winning statement in the first sentence. gotta go…

alaska A

by ak_A on Jul 23, 2008 6:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Exactly

The A’s have to move on as if he is a non-entity (as macha would say). If you ever got anything out of him it would gravy.

by DKNJ on Jul 23, 2008 1:34 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Everybody's tallking

But I keep on walking
Why can’t they just let me live?

Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands..."Does your little iddy biddy back hurt, Bobby?! Does it, you SOB?!" -Alox

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 7:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good recap. Short version of the

disatisfaction I would have had, had I followed the game and blogged along. got it over with quick.

alaska A

by ak_A on Jul 23, 2008 1:11 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Its to the point where Im praying

for Pennington’s contract to be purchased. Hes a Switch hitter with good D and great on base skills. Can steal a base. He would be a great #1 or #2 hitter.

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 1:11 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oh.. and we wouldnt have Crosby!

That’s the best part!

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 1:15 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Who would take Crosby.

Even the Dodgers and Orioles don’t seem interested.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:26 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i dont think the yankees, who will take anyone will pick up crosby. not to call him out 110%, but what value does he bring to the table

by jhroac02 on Jul 23, 2008 4:32 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Having 2 HOF SS on their roster might dampen their interest somewhat

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:35 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

last time i checked the yankees also have an all star type 1st basemen in giambi, but just picked up sexton and are a couple of months picked up ponson. so given there track record, they will give anything a shot

by jhroac02 on Jul 23, 2008 4:53 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

who you do this

would you trade greg smith for a solid ss or second basemen. knowing that gio, Gallagher, and the duke are a solid threesome for years to come

by jhroac02 on Jul 23, 2008 5:03 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No one "Has" to take him..

he can ride the bench.

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 4:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

well we can at least agree he needs to go. they really need speed at ss

by jhroac02 on Jul 23, 2008 4:55 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Um

No. The A’s need is not for speed at any position.

What they need is someone who can actually hit. Pennington can’t, so he wouldn’t be any improvement there.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 5:01 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That may be true about him not being able to hit..

But he still might be a better option than Crosby. He certainly could make less outs than him tho.

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 5:08 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Maybe it's just jaded cynicism

but I’ve gotten to be really bearish on guys who have high walk rates but nothing else going for them at the plate. Pitchers in the majors will not walk you if you can’t do any damage to them. He might do OK for a few months, but not once the scouting report gets out. And I figure you might as well spend those few months on a season that actually matters.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 8:17 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm still amazed Kendall never got thrown out at 1B by the RF

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 8:29 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It had to do with guys with high walk rates and no power

and how they are unable to maintain that plan for long

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 9:09 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah, but Pennington is really fast

There’s no way in hell he’d ever be thrown out at first unless he tripped coming out of the batter’s box or something. So it seemed topically unrelated. Pennington has many issues to solve before he can become even an average MLB player, but being thrown out at first on a ball to the outfield is not one of them.

(Also, why Kendall? I mean, he’s not Russell Martin or something, but the guy was a good baserunner for a catcher.)

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 11:18 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Because he was a small

punch and judy hitter. The outfield regularly played him close because of his lack of power and his tendency to shoot the ball towards the hole in right. Ergo the possibility of him throwing him out on first from right.

I watched him play for a while tonight. I actually missed him. He took out the Cards 2nd baseman on a vicious slide to break up the DP.

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 11:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well myabe if he saw more pitches in the zone more consistantly

he could hit them better.

"With 16-year-old Dominican righty Michel Inoa in tow, Gio Gonzalez improving at Triple-A and lefty Brett Anderson carving up Double-Abatters along with Simmons and Trevor Cahill, Oakland’s pitching depthis officially the envy of baseball." - BaseballAmerica.com

by Syphon on Jul 23, 2008 8:46 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The Kevin Youkilis theory?

Hm. I’ll believe it when I see it…

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 11:19 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'll take a tease, please

better than a depressing 3 batter ninth inning.

by MobiusKlein on Jul 23, 2008 1:17 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This rant appears out of place

To me this is just the beginning of a very tough 2nd half of the season. What I find quite hilarious is that just as the team started to build some expectations for the public the ripped the cord and went right back into the “we are building of the future, but please come to games.” NO ONE IS FOOLED Mr. Beane! It’s very unfortunate that the Angels are so good and/or lucky (combined with the A’s seemingly unlucky this year) this year because with the team the A’s had they would have had a real good shot at the division. But that is how it played out and why K-rod will most likely own a statistical record by the end of this year. BTW I am all for the 3,000 mph ball to the head of K-rod, that would be sweet.

by jasonlbe on Jul 23, 2008 2:13 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not to the head

Just to his pitching hand on his fingers. The finger that points to the sky. It could then rebound off his hand and into the groin area.

by Trainman on Jul 23, 2008 2:29 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A rant's a rant...

...and it’s a good one at that. Well done.

However….”and went right back into the "we are building of the future, but please come to games." NO ONE IS FOOLED Mr. Beane!”... I wasn’t fooled in April. No one (I mean among the “experts”) expected the A’s to be anywhere but in the cellar this year. They’ve shown flashes of adequacy this year, and have been fun to watch. But who, seriously, thought they’d compete for the division? I mean, seriously…?

by gregorymark on Jul 23, 2008 7:04 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not really about today's game

But is there any news about Brett Hunter I may have missed? Last I heard he had said he wanted a $2M signing bonus. Anything since then?

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 23, 2008 2:31 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

BA has a piece

on him today. Basically the A’s are monitoring the situation and will go right up until the Aug 15 deadline. This one is a very hard call…...Hunter was reportedly at a solid 90-92 although still down from his 95 pre-injury peak.

I think that they should sign him. They do a good job developing pitchers and probably will need every ounce of pitching depth in order to get a few bats for 2010.

by DKNJ on Jul 23, 2008 3:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If he's only at 90-92 is he still worth $2MM?

If not, why should he not go back to school and try to get back to 100% for next year?

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

There won't be any news on this front until Aug. 15th

I’ll defer to the A’s on this one. He’s pitching again but if his velocity is down and his control continues to be subpar, there’s real reason for concern that he might be a blown investment. If they choose not to sign him, I’m not going to rant and rave about it.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 4:58 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

At this point, you almost have to wonder

the A’s brass looks at guys like Evan Longoria and thinks, “You know, we have most of the pieces in place for 2009 on independent of how we play the rest of this season – would finishing with a worse record in 2008 be such a bad thing?”

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 Jul 23, 2008 2:53 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We can do it!

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 Jul 23, 2008 2:58 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's not as easy as it looks

We tried like hell last year and still fell short.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:28 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree

The way this lot is playing, it’s going to be easy to lose 50 of the last 61.

by Trainman on Jul 23, 2008 2:58 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

More important to tank their way into the zone

where the first round pick is protected when the team signs a free agent slugger (which it really, really needs to do).

Which basically means below .500. That would only require slightly subpar play the rest of the way.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 4:59 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

should they sign 2 free agent sluggers?

I know it’s a pipe dream, but…

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 5:30 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Giambi, Abreu, Burrell, Dunn, Edmonds, Teixeira, Thome

seem to be the main ones. Of these I’d pick Abreu and/or Giambi, mainly because they still make good contact. They give us insurance in case of a Cust collapse. Is there anyone else? Why is it a pipe dream?

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 5:37 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Cust has collapsed

"just a beating heart ... plasma that we'll put into our uniform." - Billy Beane

by athleticsBB4life on Jul 23, 2008 5:42 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

They say that every other month. Then he turns back into Spartacust.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 6:21 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

.220 hitter and the OPS is not so impressive these days

K- UST

"just a beating heart ... plasma that we'll put into our uniform." - Billy Beane

by athleticsBB4life on Jul 23, 2008 6:23 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ya he's not as good as his first month last year, but I need more

evidence before totally writing him off.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 7:53 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Why do you need more evidence?

We know exactly what he is at this point—a guy who will be a league-average DH for a bargain price.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 8:19 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yes, I'm saying I need more evidence that he's finished

before I buy it. I already assume he’s an average DH.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 8:30 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not really

The other three have had terrible batting averages. That’s not the same thing.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 11:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

They really have been terrible overall

Sub-.800 OPS marks in April, June and July, a batting average of .197, an OBP and SLG far below whatever he did last season as well.

Just because he walked a lot (and even that rate is below last season’s) doesn’t mean he’s been hitting well. He absolutely has not.

Last year he had three months with an OPS of .970, 1.022 and 1.063. The other two months it was .757 and .741.

This year it’s .669, 1.004, .741 and .759.

Really, for a slugger that’s not good.

Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog

by Flashfire on Jul 24, 2008 1:12 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think one is realistic.

The free agent market is very competitive, especially for power, and there aren’t many good deals to be had.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 5:44 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The problem is that when you sign a FA,

you might improve your team but you basically agree to “overpay relative to what he’s actually worth” – that works out fine for teams like the Yankees, who just want to get better and don’t care if they are overpaying, but it’s not good for budget-conscious teams that rely on finding bargains in order to afford other things such as extensions for current players, absorbing contracts from players acquired in trades, etc.

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 Jul 23, 2008 6:49 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I've got an asshat

waiting for this argument in another post.

Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands..."Does your little iddy biddy back hurt, Bobby?! Does it, you SOB?!" -Alox

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 7:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If you assume the Yankees sign Teixeira, who's the competition for Giambi?

Angels maybe. Indians? Blue Jays? I’m not sure the A’s can’t compete for him. And I don’t think he’s done. He still controls the strike zone and still has power. A mostly DH role could keep him somewhat healthy. I think he might be had on a three year $27M deal like Frank got from the Jays. He’d certainly make a difference in our lineup.

I’d like Abreu too, but we’ve got a bit more competition there. Still he seems like someone many people think is done, and I don’t see it. He might be had on a 3 year deal as well.

Imagine our lineup without Frank and a collapsed Cust. These guys would be well worth it. We don’t need the lineup to be a juggernaut, just not as horrible as it’s been this year.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 7:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The problem with Abreu

is that he’s become a truly dismal outfielder—his defense has dropped to Raul Ibanez levels at this point.

He’s a true DH right now—he hurts you as much as Cust does if he’s in the field.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 8:23 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So it's either him or Jason I guess. 2011 Free PECOTA EqA and VORP

That’s the third year of a hypothetical contract.

Teixeira – .308, 34.7
Dunn – .306, 21.5
Burrell – .295, 10.5
Abreu – .287, 7.1
Thome – .286, 4.5
Giambi – out of baseball
Edmonds – out of baseball

According to this, Dunn might be the bargain DH. The others are only worth 2 year deals at most.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 8:38 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

only Tex looks worth it

but there’s that whole Boras thing. I don’t really see going after any of the big name FAs, but I could see using some of these pieces we’ve gotten in trades to pull off the F-ing A trade….

remember that song?

by scatterbrian on Jul 23, 2008 8:55 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

How does a .295 EqA give you sub-average VORP?

That’s like 80 games worth.

I’m not buying those VORP numbers at all. If Burrell is posting a .295 EqA in 2011, he will almost certainly be worth the money for that year.

Also worth considering—sometimes buying 4 years of a player, when you need 3, is better than buying 0 years. Buying free agents is like shopping at Costco—usually you have to buy more than you need or want.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 11:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would say he hurt's you considerably more in the field.

I think Jack can be only(!) slightly below league average in the field.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 11:17 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

the A's have the room to pay market value for one or two premium players,

especially when they provide the power the A’s are sorely lacking. And I don’t see what’s so bad about a short term (2 year) deal, it’s the long term things that really hamstring a payroll.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 11:58 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Edmonds? ugh.

but Giambi is intriguing. I wonder how I would feel if he came back? It really sucked when he left but lately I’ve lost my hate for him leaving.

Giambi and Burrell and/or Abreu would be my picks from that bunch. but I think it’s far fetched.

You have to include smiley faces - Poppy
;- ) :- ) :-O : -> : -] : -}

by micdog2001 on Jul 23, 2008 6:47 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Burrell's K's scare me. They could be a sign of impending collapse.

Also he’s only 31, so he might get a 4-5 year deal.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 7:52 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yes but when he loses bat speed as he ages, he could be totally worthless

very fast. He might age just fine, but I wouldn’t give him a long term deal to find out.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 8:09 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

oh you're right

I wouldn’t want him for more than 3 or 4 years, just saying he’s always had high Ks. I’m more wary of the career year in the final year, but he’s still a legit right-handed power bat…

by scatterbrian on Jul 23, 2008 8:15 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

well, if the Ks scare you, I think the only slugger of interest to you would be Giambi.

Note: I’m not counting Teixeira, as I don’t think he’s a realistic option.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 11:42 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I share your disdain for Edmonds. He's not a home run hitter anymore.

In my opinion, neither is Abreu. Giambi might be worth it depending on the market’s interest in him, but things look dicey if he and Burrell continue to put up good numbers.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 11:32 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not so out there

Tf there’s a polished, power hitting, college 3B in their range next draft the ETA would be about right. That would be a no brainer, right?

Then again, we’d really have to tank to get someone like that, since those guys are top ten picks. If they keep running this lineup out there it seems very possible.

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 3:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

lalalalallalalalalala

The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.

by rebus on Jul 23, 2008 3:34 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He was probably a better pick...

But not many near-obese third basemen out there. I doubt he’ll play 3B in the majors.

The A's colors are green and gold.

by mikeA on Jul 23, 2008 4:02 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

but if Gallagher eats Wallace ...

1. Won’t Gallagher balloon right up again?

2. Wallace won’t be able to field 3B effectively from inside Gallagher

Who needs competence as long as everyone smiles? @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 23, 2008 4:12 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

heyyy

now there’s an idea!

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 23, 2008 4:38 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Okay....I've had a chance to cool down

since todays intrepid loss. After careful consideration and deliberation, I have come to the conclusion that I still want to see some dead weight sacked by Beane. Preferably on the freaking tarmac before the plane leaves.

Is that too much to ask? Does it make me a bad guy? I don’t care. Screw you Bobby.

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 3:16 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Surely you're not disparaging

our 2004 RoY, are you?

But he has so much poe-ten-tall….

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 3:22 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If only he would spread his wings and fly....

all the way home from the tarmac in Florida. Or Beane could make everyone hitting under .230 ride coach.

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 3:30 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

or take the bus back from Tampa...

that would be a pleasant ride, wouldn’t it?

I think we should throw (Barton) head first, into a pool with no water, screaming, "You like THAT? Huh, kid, do you like THAT?" Maybe that’s just the Marine in me, though. -Nico
For the record, I’ve never had a Marine in me. -Swooney's Left Foot

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 3:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It would be pleasant!

At least for me! Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands. I would be thinking….”Does your little iddy biddy back hurt Bobby?” “Does it you SOB?”

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 4:03 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

New tagline.

Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands..."Does your little iddy biddy back hurt, Bobby?! Does it, you SOB?!" -Alox

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 4:12 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Fine, you forced my hand.

QOTM nomination it is.

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

by louismg on Jul 23, 2008 6:45 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

and I thank you.

Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands..."Does your little iddy biddy back hurt, Bobby?! Does it, you SOB?!" -Alox

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 7:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Beane to ANers:

“Please drink the Kool-aid and trust me! “

The only problem with this message is ANers are smarter than other fans and while we realize our pitching prospects are in place, we look in the pantry and there aren’t any hitters which is why we exclaim and show all the Blog frustration!

Beating LAA or wherever the fu*k they are, Priceless!

by MMunoz33 on Jul 23, 2008 3:21 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Clearly we need a new pantry

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:30 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The utter collapse

of Buck and Barton has tarnished a solid season to date. These guys have been horrific…well past the stage of normal growing pains. I don’t know what the solution is with these guys.

Aaron Cunningham should be a league average OFer. I think that he will be an offensive upgrade in 09.

by DKNJ on Jul 23, 2008 3:35 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

pstt... Barton is a rookie.

It’s not really a collapse if he has no record of being good in the majors.

by mikev on Jul 23, 2008 3:39 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He had a great cup of

coffee in 07 and had very good minor league numbers. I don’t know if anyone expected him to be Marco Scutaro at 1st base.

by DKNJ on Jul 23, 2008 3:48 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No

The A's colors are green and gold.

by mikeA on Jul 24, 2008 2:32 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

plus the injuries to other key producers

It’s the non-stop roster churn of AAA+ players that makes it such a grind.

by MobiusKlein on Jul 23, 2008 3:39 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Is Cunningham coming up in 2009?

Is he really any better than Murton?

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:31 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Answer:

maybe and maybe. Murton appears to suck, but maybe he doesn’t.

The A's colors are green and gold.

by mikeA on Jul 23, 2008 4:40 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Despair.

Will that be the new advertising slogan for next season?

“He sucks, but he doesn’t suck as much as Murton. Or Crosby. “

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 4:45 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope we don't go around picking up everyone not worse than Crosby

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 5:39 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Apparently,

that was this years formula for success. Not really working out to well either!

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 5:46 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Maybe not right now

He certainly projects better long-term, as he’s a similar hitter who’s younger and plays better defense.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 23, 2008 5:04 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The Angels win....

of course.

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 3:52 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Made all the worse by the fact

that Cleveland was mounting a comeback. Only to have K-Rod record the save with a single pitch. One pitch. I will relish every moment of his eventual meltdown. May it be Zito-esq.

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 4:01 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I like being 10 games back

It will make our 2008 division title all the more sweet.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:32 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Milton Bradley

Can someone tell me how Bradley became a 309./19/58 guy with Texas. This guy could not stay on the field the past 4 years. Not to mention that Either has turned into a decent player for the Dodgers.

"This was no boating accident"

by crd04us on Jul 23, 2008 4:03 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

DHing may be the key

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 Jul 23, 2008 4:05 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

DHing IS the key.

Plus the TexMex he eats on a daily basis provides his body with the proper nutrients.

Having Wash as his boss prolly don’t hurt, either.

Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands..."Does your little iddy biddy back hurt, Bobby?! Does it, you SOB?!" -Alox

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 4:14 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Prolly?

TexMex, is he eating a lot of LEGUMES? Maybe he was lacking a solid amount of fiber in his diet!

Enjoy the game

by DCinWC on Jul 23, 2008 6:22 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm getting the feeling

you’re making fun of me through anagrams…the doctors told me these feelings wouldn’t return….

Imagine waking up at 2 a,m. and thinking of Bobby on Greyhound somewhere in the Texas wastelands..."Does your little iddy biddy back hurt, Bobby?! Does it, you SOB?!" -Alox

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 23, 2008 7:28 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A few things:
  • DHing 75% of the time
  • Playing in that bandbox
  • Having an actual lineup around him
  • Staying healthy (for him)

Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog

by Flashfire on Jul 23, 2008 4:06 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ethier is in the NL

That’s all that needs to be said.

by Trainman on Jul 23, 2008 4:15 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Including this year..

He’ll have hit .300 for 3 separate seasons. He just happens to be a very very good hitter.

A's Fan in Philly

by Duby on Jul 23, 2008 9:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

reason why

when your best average is .287, your most rbi are 47 and you middle infield is the worst in the league, how can you think the a’s can put up runs. i hate crosby, and mark ellis makes me sick. I dont think crosby is even a solid aaa player. instead of getting more pitching, the a’s need speed and bats and not these subs that we pick up each year from other teams trash bins.

by jhroac02 on Jul 23, 2008 4:19 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I disagree. Crosby is a solid AAA player.

When you have a chance to get a guy like Sean Gallagher, you take it!

by WaddellCanseco on Jul 23, 2008 4:34 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i would say that the a’s do have something to build a team around, which is Gonzalez. i mean if he can put a little wieght on, he can be an all star one day

by jhroac02 on Jul 23, 2008 4:25 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Don't you think we already have enough

chubby guys who strike out?

"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Jul 23, 2008 4:37 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I tried that...

...it didn’t work

Enjoy the game

by DCinWC on Jul 23, 2008 6:24 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Inoa Si article

Inoa’s advisor concerns MLB

"just a beating heart ... plasma that we'll put into our uniform." - Billy Beane

by athleticsBB4life on Jul 23, 2008 5:15 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Donnie Murphy

cleared waivers and is heading to AAA, so I guess nobody wanted hime either?

LOL!!! I bet if Crosby cleared waivers the A’s would still be hoping for that Peter Gammons MVP prediciton to be just around the corner!

Beating LAA or wherever the fu*k they are, Priceless!

by MMunoz33 on Jul 23, 2008 8:16 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

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