A's Get the Greinke Kicked Out of Them by Royals
by Tyler Bleszinski on Jul 28, 2008 10:02 PM PDT
140 comments
The A's are scuffling. No duh. But Zack Greinke ran over the A's lineup tonight like it was, well, the A's current lineup.
The only A's players who seemed to have any kind of chance against Greinke tonight was Suzuki, Sweeney and Gonzalez. And don't look now, ANers, but the A's now have two .300 hitters in their lineup in Sweeney and Suzuki. Even though Sweeney only got one hit tonight, he looked confident and had a hit taken away by old Sacramento farmhand Esteban German. Those three players, more than anyone else in green and gold (with the obvious exception of record-setting ANer Brad Ziegler), are the ones I look forward to watching on a nightly basis. Suzuki does a great job behind the plate calling games, but he's also fun to watch with a bat in his hand.
As for Sweeney, everything I see in him makes me think he's going to come crashing down. His swing often looks long and sometimes looks a bit too awkward. Still, he continues to be the guy in the lineup that I feel remarkably confident every time he steps to the plate. Then again, I'm the guy who never thought Travis Buck would ever go into a slump because of his incredibly level swing that helped his bat remain through the zone longer than most, so what do I know.
Finally, Gonzalez is just a machine. And he's still so young. He pulled a pitch tonight that looked like was six-eight inches off the plate to the outside. It takes remarkable skill to do that, especially how hard Greinke was throwing the ball tonight. The reality is that you can't do that on a consistent basis unless you are supremely skilled. Perhaps that double tonight off Greinke was a fluke, but I've seen Gonzalez enough now to think it most definitely wasn't.
OK, so I know I said finally, but I did want to say something about Dallas Braden. Braden is someone the A's have been high on for quite a while. Watching him tonight you can understand why. He seemed to be around 90-92 on his fastball most of the night (at least according to the Royals radar gun) and his changeup was working well. He also throws a nice slider. Granted, Braden is not going to be a guy that dominates lineups, but he kept the A's in the game and wound up with seven strikeouts along the way. These next few months are crucial for Braden's future with the A's. If he's to factor in their plans he has to perform and perform well. It's just that the A's offense didn't show up outside of the three guys I mentioned above, and that's a shame for Braden.
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BTW
It’s a shame, but it looks like Tim Hudson is done for a while. Sad.
by Tyler Bleszinski on Jul 28, 2008 10:04 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
That stinks
Huddy was my favorite of the big three.
"There's m'fn sprinklers on the m'fn infield!'" - Ice Cream (AN), 6/13/08
by doctorK on Jul 28, 2008 10:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chipper and Huddy out...
There goes the Brave’s last hope for this season.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the Braves had a hope?
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 10:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lol...well ...They were in 4th but within reach ...
if the right trade was made.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Braden won't be judged by the sorry ass offense
of this team. I saw the guy thrown in a couple minor league games. His only real drawback is his penchant for giving up the long ball. I don’t know if it’s because he is taken to task for every mistake pitch or what….
"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 28, 2008 10:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I still feel that the lack of movement on his fastball,
combined with the lack of an especially plus breaking pitch/splitter variation on his fastball/changeup, leave Braden as a guy whose upside is “serviceable”. He gives up a lot of loud noises, in and out of the park. I could see him being a good second lefty in the pen behind Blevins, but better than Meyer/DiNardo/some other random guy they’ll have moving through? Eh.
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 28, 2008 10:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you may be right.
I posted about his performance with the Cats awhile back. He did okay….until the ball started leaving the park.
"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 28, 2008 10:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
When you lose to the Royals, and clearly are outplayed,
you kinda suck, at least for the time being…
by Pucking Insane on Jul 28, 2008 10:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Well, that's how Detroit started the year
with the touted “lineup of the century” not doing squat.
A’s are lethargic and dispirited IMO. Making us fans the same way….
"I never predict anything, and I never will." Paul Gascoigne, English footballer
by One won lost won on Jul 28, 2008 10:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Outplayed" by a pitcher
Greinke would’ve kicked anyone’s ass last night
by Brian in 317 on Jul 29, 2008 7:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
These games are almost painful to watch.
Not just because the new kids can’t hit…but even guys like Ellis who can usually hit in an average way are doing the o-fer thing.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:23 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Ellis looks more and more...
like an aging player who Billy will trade or let walk. His will probably be a more gradual decline than say… Kotsay, but I think Beane has learned his lesson.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 10:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
At this point I'm starting to worry about Ellis qualifying as a Type A.
by mikev on Jul 28, 2008 10:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Starting?
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Jul 28, 2008 10:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope that you are wrong.
‘Nuff said.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The kids can hit just fine - Sweeney, Suzuki and Gonzalez are the only reason to watch
It’s the vets – Ellis, Crosby, Cust, Brown – and AAAA players – Hannahan, Conrad, Bankston – who are making things difficult on a nightly basis.
by boilerdan on Jul 29, 2008 10:08 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gonzalez, Sweeney, and Suzuki.
These guys are fun to watch. During a rebuilding year this is what I want to see. Suzuki had his struggles a few weeks ago when it seemed that nearly everyone on this site wanted him sent down. He has rebounded nicely. I think he caught his “2nd wind” so to speak and seems to have that energy level back from the first month where he was sprinting up to the mound to chat with the pitchers anytime something got off.
Cargon, I’ve been a little disappointed with his k/bb ratio, but I’m hoping he gets that under control shortly. The guy routinely makes awesome plays in the field. Not only that, but he is hitting a ton of line drives. His BA isn’t super high right now, but dang he consistently hits the ball hard!
Ryan Sweeney continues to look like a steal. I’m thinking Sweeney for Swisher may have been a fair deal straight up. Hopefully he stops getting banged up because he is valuable. He is like CarGon, playing great D, and has a super arm. He hits the ball hard too. He definitely is capable for hitting for power, but it seems like a confidence thing for him. I just hope he doesn’t turn out to be Travis Buck v2.0. Promising injury hindered first year followed by a sharp drop off.
I know it may not be efficient or beneficial, but I’d really like to see more young high ceiling guys on the team. I seriously can’t stand Kust. I don’t care if someone wants to debate how beneficial he is to the teams success. That doesn’t really matter much anymore. Lets see if Buck can play, or give Patterson some more time. Ellis I like, but he is pretty expendable, if one of the 2nd baseman are ready trade Ellis and let them get some at bats. Same goes for Crosby. It’s one thing watching Daric Barton struggle, it’s another watching the guys who are supposed to perform continue to suck it up.
What about Barry?
"Barry who?" Forst said, and I felt like I was in the middle of a knock-knock joke.
by KMoAsFan on Jul 28, 2008 10:25 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Let's build a team around these guys
and yes, Cust, Crosby, and Chavez are giving “C” last names a bad name. If we are rebuilding, it’s time to cut the dead weight from this great young nucleus.
Green Hulk Fists
by oaklandSMASH on Jul 28, 2008 10:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought Braden got hit hard tonight
and was lucky not to given up twice as many runs. Quite a few balls flat-out smoked, right at fielders for outs. I didn’t see his last start-I know it was positive-but I don’t see him as much of a presence in the rotation now, much less in the future.
They want to steal the land papers which is why they have tried to break in. But they had to give up after being bitten by Chhotu.
by FreeSeatUpgrade on Jul 28, 2008 10:35 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
His last start, he didn't get hit as hard and didn't throw as many strikes
I’m as perplexed by R. Sweeney as I’ve been by a young player in a while. Like Blez, I just don’t see the swing that should produce a .300 average and I sure don’t see the power developing, yet he just seems to get better and hit more line drives. Heck if I know what to expect going forward.
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 28, 2008 10:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
dammit...
still not willing for the confessional yet, eh? Swooney is our right fielder for the next 5 or 6 years. Huston Street is, hopefully, traded before Thursday.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 10:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
.350 BABIP
and he still only has a .750 OPS.
I’m not buying into Sweeney until he gets some power. I’m glad he’s playing decently, but I don’t see him as above average in the future.
by ohmangoAs on Jul 29, 2008 12:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He got away with a few pitches tonight, I agree.
But I do think that he can be an asset to the team, we need to show some patience.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What the A's should do THIS WEEK
1. Trade Duke for LaRoche and prospect
2. Recall Meyer and Gio
3. Institute 6 man rotation for final 2 months (Gio, Gallagher, Smith, Eveland, Braden, Meyer)
4. DFA DFA
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 10:40 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Experience
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 10:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let him gain confidence in the minors...
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It seems like the only time he struggles is at high altitudes
There aren’t any of those in the AL
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 10:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought Round Rock wasn't high altitude.
He didn’t pitch very well there yesterday.
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 28, 2008 10:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
There goes that argument - I haven't looked at yesterday's results yet
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 10:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
For Gio last night, it was:
4 IP, 6 hits, 3 ER, 5 BB, 2 K (101 pitches, 59 strikes)
25 pitches per inning – bleah.
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 28, 2008 10:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Zito-esque
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 10:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't agree about Gio, but I do think
it would be wise to call up Meyer, let him make 10 starts to see what he can do (he’s had three outstanding starts in a row in Sacramento), move Braden to the bullpen to see how he handles a middle relief / LOOGY role, and put Embree on the back burner simply because he’s not part of the A’s long-term plans.
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 28, 2008 10:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes trade him.
No need to keep Embree now.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm assuming no one wants him
His overall numbers this year are bad, and recently really bad – I’m not sure teams would see him as an upgrade worth spending talent on.
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 28, 2008 10:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are most likely right.
A trade may be wishful thinking…but Embree does have a good rep as a player so I think that he might be tradeable in a multi-player deal. Other than that, he’s valuable to us as a mop-up guy , I guess.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Embree even said himself the other day, "Have left arm will travel"
Even though he’s getting shitty results, a lefty who throws 94 will always have a job (and trade value).
Even if it’s just to sweeten the pot for some deal.
by mikev on Jul 28, 2008 10:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
And time to let the dream of "Babe Cust"
sleep…...........It was a nice story while it lasted but I am truly over him on this team. Just not enough positive for my tastes. Frank Thomas can’t get back soon enough.
Go A’s!!!!!!
Oh yeah, and Jaguar Paw is fucking superhero!!!!!
by mrod on Jul 28, 2008 11:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
I like the idea of Meyer getting another shot. He needs it.
by mikev on Jul 28, 2008 10:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Meyers would be interesting to watch too.
He had all of the hype…failed and now needs to prove himself.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just a note about Greinke
I know he had struggled over the past 6 weeks, but his performance was legit, not the result of the A’s futility. He has arguably one of the best 5-10 arms in the league, and the finish on his fastball was unreal. Don’t give up on Patterson just because he looked like he couldn’t catch up to a fastball, because there’s a fastball and there’s Greinke’s fastball and there’s Greinke’s fastball tonight. He was throwing that well.
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 28, 2008 10:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Patterson gets a pass
at least for awhile. Greinke did seem to be dealing tonight….but it’s hard to tell anymore if it’s the opposing pitcher who is dominating, or just the usual suckitude from the A’s offense.
I still have a hard time believing the A’s are collapsing as badly as they are. I could understand a team tailing off, especially one that is, “rebuilding”. But to utterly fold like this is a bit hard to take.
"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 28, 2008 10:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not the same team...
Without Harden and Gaudin plus Thomas on the DL. You never know what new face might pop-up and when.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ellis...Crosby...
They pop-up a lot.
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 28, 2008 10:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
A few weeks back
I was thinking of creating a tally sheet for every time Ellis pops up. I decided not to because I was too lazy at the time, but now I really wish I had. The amount of pop-ups he hits is INCREDIBLE!!! It speaks to how shitty a swing he really has and now I’m so tired of his non-performance now that I wouldn’t care one bit if he was let go at the end of the year or traded at the deadline. I know his defense is superb, but outside of that one great year he had his offense has always been average to below-average. Defense is great and all but we’ve witnessed the last few years that not having at least an average offense will get you nowhere as well. I say cut bait on Ellis and hope that one of Pennington, Patterson, Weeks, or Cardenas will stick at second.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jul 28, 2008 11:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Harden played at best a little more than once a week.
Thomas was on the DL way before the A’s started tanking. Don’t get me wrong, these things have an impact I’m sure. It just shouldn’t be this much of an impact.
"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 28, 2008 10:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In my heart, I have no doubt that the A's players were deflated
by the trades – Duchscherer was just the one willing to verbalize it. That doesn’t mean it is the wrong thing to do, just that the immediate cost is significant.
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 28, 2008 11:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you are totally correct
It was a good idea to trade some of the pitchers. However, to not receive anyone who could help the team in the line-up in 2008 killed the morale.
by Yellowhorse on Jul 28, 2008 11:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gallagher has been pretty good.
It’s not Murton’s fault that he hardly played (and wasn’t good when he did)
by mikev on Jul 29, 2008 7:44 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I still think that those trades *improved* the A's both long-term and in '08
Worse than being dead is being hot. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jul 29, 2008 10:13 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Harden, Gaudin, Blanton trades
were trades of players that the guys had known for more than a minute. You can’t downplay the psychological impact of that or the message from the top that they didn’t think the team was going to contend .
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 11:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have a feeling Greinke would have shut anyone down,
and K’d a truckload, tonight. The problem is that a mediocre pitcher might also do it again soon. But the Zack-attack was dealing.
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 28, 2008 10:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Greinke is an up and comer.
But it isn’t as if the A’s hitting was bad only tonight against Greinke. The Offense is bad bad against almost everybody at this point.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 10:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
My point is just that the A's offense being bad in general
doesn’t mean it’s why they got shut down tonight. They also had some poor luck, specficially R. Sweeney’s would-be double just foul, his liner to left, and Hannahan’s shot up the middle deflected for a DP. Given how well Greinke was throwing, it’s actually kind of impressive that they hit as many balls hard as they did. And, as a separate point, in general the A’s offense sucks.
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 28, 2008 11:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nico ...if you find yourself in a hole...
just stop digging.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 11:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Swooney's two almost-hits drop...
the A’s probably win this game. Swooney is good.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the Royals either have good advance scouts...
or, they’ve been studying Swooney’s spray chart, though. They had Esteban playing him perfectly.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sweeney has been a bright spot.
Some of the sting of losing Swish has dissipated now because he’s been pretty good.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 11:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm just tired of seeing
Pitchers that have struggled in starts leading up to their starts against us suddenly returning to dominance. Either its horrible coincidence after horrible coincidence or we just suck. It’s obvious it’s the latter.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jul 28, 2008 11:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How do you suppose the Rays, who are clawing
for a division title, felt about getting beaten last week by “I’ve lost my last 8 decisions” marginal prospect Dallas Braden?
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 28, 2008 11:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Okay
Their offense has an off night. Our offense has had an off month. I don’t think the Rays or their fans were worried about losing that game.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jul 28, 2008 11:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rays "fans"
aren’t really worried about anything, other than whether they will also have to buy a new Bucs cap this year too.
Can Magic Sprinkles Now!!! --Monkeyball
by Leopold Bloom on Jul 29, 2008 7:10 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree about Greinke as well
that kid was throwing some nasty sh#*!
and Patterson I want to continue to see on the field. I think he’s gonna be good, or at the least a very serviceable player…..
by mrod on Jul 28, 2008 11:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he could be an asset, but I don't know
where he can get a lot of ABs. I hate the thought of an OF with as little power as Patterson/Sweeney would give, and I don’t want a Vidro-type situation at DH (“professional hitter” but not a “big power threat”). And the dropoff defensively at 2B is hard to fathom.
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 28, 2008 11:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm thinking 2nd base
and occasionally in the outfield.
by mrod on Jul 28, 2008 11:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
dude, he's Billy's replacement for Ellis this season...
he is not going to be taking any AB’s away from Cust in the OF once Thomas comes back.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't act so sure of yourself -
My guess is that BILLY doesn’t know yet who his 2Bman is for 2009.
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 28, 2008 11:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure he doesn't...
I don’t know, either. All I’m saying is that Patterson is it for after July 31st until the end of 2008.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Robert Buan says
“Strikeouts are costing the A’s games” LOL.
Several callers want Cust off the team and are tired of watching him fail. It will be interesting to see how Cust improves with Frank back in there.
by Trainman on Jul 28, 2008 10:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Do the A's stick him back in LF when Hurt DH's?
Assuming Swooney and CarGo stay healthy, what do you do with Patterson (assuming Ellis is not traded).
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 10:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think if you're trying to stay competitive, you stick Cust in LF
so you can finally have two power hitters, and a reason for opposing teams to throw Cust fastballs in the zone. There’s playing time to go around for Patterson – rest Ellis a couple times a week, give Sweeney and Gonzalez an occasional day off, same with Thomas and Cust. Plus the inevitable three injuries.
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 28, 2008 10:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ellis is gone...
that’s why they have Patterson on the team.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 10:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that Beane would like to trade Ellis
but what can he get for him at this point?
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 11:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
it doesn't really matter...
a prospect or three. Beane ain’t gonna pay him what he’ll fetch in free agency. There’s really no point in quibbling over Prospect A or Prospect B.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Time will tell - Beane is nothing if not unpredictable (triple neg!)
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 28, 2008 11:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You never know.
Beane could surprise us with some kind of loyalty. It happened once when he signed Chavez to a longterm deal.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 11:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
When Chavez signed that contract
he was productive both offensively and defensively. Ellis is in an offensive freefall.
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 11:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ellis is HURTING.
He needs to get well. He’s played enough years for us to know that he will hit better when he isn’t injured.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 11:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If he is still having shoulder problems
That’s a reason right there to not bring him back. At some point the A’s need to start looking at a player’s past health when making these decisions. I still don’t know why they signed Calero for this year. And I could have told you that there was no way Foulke and M. Sweeney were going to stay healthy all year.
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 11:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
They were signed because
Billy was hedging his bets. Had the team made a serious run, they would have been cheap insurance. Play the youngsters, call in the seasoned pro’s when it gets down and dirty.
"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 28, 2008 11:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, like Kotsay...
another lesson learned.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's a courageous prediction
Care to post it in your sigline if you’re wrong? Because we all know you’ll be trumpeting it to the rafters if you’re right.
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Jul 28, 2008 11:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bet him $100 - see what happens.
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 28, 2008 11:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
what? that Ellis will be traded?
I’ll post it in my sigline if you’ll post in yours that Huston is a shitty closer if he finishes with the worst blown save percentage in the AL this year.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, for sure
I will absolutely agree to do that.
(Of course, I can’t lose—tons of setup guys will end up with blown save percentages of 100%. Which kind of makes the point that it’s a retarded-ass stat that should not be taken seriously by anyone.)
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Jul 28, 2008 11:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
(worst blown save percentage of a closer)
with more than say… 60 innings pitched… in the AL. Gotta make it fair for me. LOL
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
PT isn't interested in fair.
He’s interested in winning by his definitions. After a couple years of experience, he can be my lawyer anytime.
"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 28, 2008 11:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love betting against noob lawyers-to-be
especially, in Texas Hold ‘Em. Still think an AN tourney to benefit Korach’s charity is a good cause. I’ll donate $500 to the first pot, just to placate Nico.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I prefer two-card Guts
because you have to be insane to want to play it. And it’s easier to win against lunatics.
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Jul 28, 2008 11:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
ahhh... but, I know you play poker...
probably, online. I’ve been trying to find you. LOL
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, people still do that?
Weird. I thought that fad died out.
by mikev on Jul 29, 2008 7:47 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've always been curious
as to why AN seems to attract so many lawyers. Eh, probably on the site while they’re screwing clients with billable hours.
"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 28, 2008 11:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe, it's because...
they comprise 30% of population of the A’s fanbase. And, they’re really wordy. And, they like to hear themselves talk.
Just my theory.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 29, 2008 12:04 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alright... I'll throw you a bone here... how about just plain old "most blown saves", numerically?
That seems like a logical enough determiner…
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Jul 28, 2008 11:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's not saber enough for me...
I like percentages… a lousy as some of them may be.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
My sigline, I make the rules
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Jul 29, 2008 12:02 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know you'd like to...
I’ll tell you what… one had… Liar’s Dice… cross-rip, differential. Oh well, the cross-rip part is kinda pointless in a two-cup game, but the differential is a killer.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 29, 2008 12:06 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
clearly...
my “s” and “n” keys are defective tonight.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 29, 2008 12:07 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think
That Ellis’ performance this season is going to bring down his price in the offseason to where we can comfortably offer him a contract. Whether that’s a good idea any more is up for debate…
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jul 28, 2008 11:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But if we are rebuilding why ....fool around with a guy like Cust?
Play the real fielders and look for a true DH for next year. A guy with pop AND a decent B.A.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 11:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cust is pushing.
At least it seemed that way to me tonight. He struck out on a pitch outside the zone swinging. He usually has better plate discipline than that. He strikes out looking at legitimate strikes when he’s on.
"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 28, 2008 11:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well... he played better last season , true.
But really, maybe last year was the abberation and not the norm. He wasn’t good enough for an awful lot of teams.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 11:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't doubt he's a good player,
especially for his particular set of skills. I also believe that with others carrying their fair share of the offense, he wouldn’t be struggling as hard as he is. I don’t want to see him dealt or cut.
I know “clutch” has been argued endlessly, and I won’t begrudge either side their point of view. Stats aside, baseball is still played by human beings. You can pretend that a guys a “pro” and that they are impervious to high leverage situations if you want….but it’s bullshit.
A guy pitching to Papi in the WS is definately going to feel the pressure. When human beings are in high pressure situations, they make mistakes. Ortiz is going to feel the pressure too, but he’s had the benefit of experience behind him, so it’s likely that he will make fewer mistakes.
Same with pitching to Cust. The pitchers can toy with him because they know that even if they make a mistake, it’s probably not going to cost them very dearly.
"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 28, 2008 11:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
His minor league track record
suggests really, really strongly that last year wasn’t an aberration. Was it the high end of what he’s capable of? Probably, but I doubt it’s outside of a reasonable range.
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Jul 28, 2008 11:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
strangely...
I agree with both you and alox. Even though, I’m pretty sure, you disagree with him.
Maybe, I’m just in an agreeable mood tonight.
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL - I think I do too:
Last year was the high end of Cust’s “normal range” and this year’s BA is the low end of his “normal range”. His true ability is probably about a .240/.370 hitter with 28 HRs and a truckload of Ks, delivered in spurts where the lows are still bad enough that they kill you in the middle of the order while you wait for him to get hot again. When he’s batting 6th, you’ll know the A’s offense has sufficiently arrived.
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 28, 2008 11:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
How about some protection for him, too? He could hit third if there were a couple of true RBI machines behind him. It would help him see more strikes, and punish the pitchers who walked him that much more.
I’m not sure Cust is a long-term answer, but he is certainly not the reason we are losing.
by Mark Borgschulte on Jul 29, 2008 6:31 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cust K's a lot
Period. Some AB’s he has good discipline and walks. Some he goes way out of the zone and strikes out. Others he just can’t hit a pitch down the middle.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jul 28, 2008 11:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
First in: OBP, Slugging, HRs, Runs, Walks, Strikeouts, Pitches/AB
Second in: RBI’s (-1 on DFA), Total Bases (-4 on Zooks)
5 GIDP (12 for Zooks, Crosby, 11 for DFA)
I.e. gotta take the good with the bad.
by Mark Borgschulte on Jul 29, 2008 8:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
A Decent B.A.
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 11:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah ...a guy with the
eye of the tiger.
by IM4Oakgal on Jul 28, 2008 11:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cust
looked awful out there. Three strikeouts on 1-2 counts, and that foul pop-up on a bad swing. Also, there was that Thome shift going on. If the dude had the faintest idea how to bunt, he could’ve easily had a single or even a double. It looked like all he wanted to do was go for the fences. Grienke pounded the zone and he was utterly overmatched.
As said above, it’s hard to tell if Grienke was throwing all that well, or if the A’s hitters mostly just suck.
by richwol1 on Jul 28, 2008 10:55 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
If you think about it, though, on a night when the opposing
pitcher had exceptional stuff, Sweeney, Gonzalez, and Suzuki all had multiple good ABs, Hannahan managed to hit a screaming liner off a 95 MPH fastball, Conrad ripped a double into the corner. More good than suck, actually, by a final score of 5-4.
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 28, 2008 11:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kust
We seen who can hit and then we see who just does the same mierda night after night, the K-machine himself, a so called “hitter”. He will break the record for K’s unless (and I really hope) Thomas and M. Sweeney come back, and fast. I am over seeing the box score when I get up in the morning to see Kust do nada. He is dead weight that needs to be dumped, and fast.
by OakFaninFL on Jul 29, 2008 5:33 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's gonna be a close race with Ryan Howard
134 to 138, Howard is ahead as of now.
by mikev on Jul 29, 2008 7:49 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I see according to the Chronicle that Frank, Sweeney and Chavy all took BP
today
I hate unproductive outs and the A's are producing them at record production
by Trainman on Jul 28, 2008 11:34 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Is the plan still to send Sweeney out on a rehab but activate Hurt when he is ready?
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 11:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Frank will want to come back on Friday
He has 7 bombs off Wakefield and they informed him of this today.
I hate unproductive outs and the A's are producing them at record production
by Trainman on Jul 28, 2008 11:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
August 1st sounds like a great day to DFA DFA
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 11:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes
Foolsh, the most insane regular poster on AN since oaktoon left - salb
by FoolshGame22 on Jul 28, 2008 11:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
not really speaking of nicknames...
but does anyone know who patrol craft is?
by winters_warriors on Jul 28, 2008 11:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Carlos Gonzalez
It's a lovely day for a Guinness!
by Swooney's Left Foot on Jul 28, 2008 11:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's Marabino patrol craft to you
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Jul 28, 2008 11:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Um
Why is there a picture of Harden with the Chron’s game story? Weird.
(Formerly Nobody Girl)
"We are a complete freak show." -- Billy Beane
by day-to-day on Jul 29, 2008 12:31 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
"You can't tip your cap every night."
Great comment from Ellis (last paragraph of the game article):
But Ellis, who indeed gave Greinke his due, sounded like he’s tiring of seeing every opposing starter turn into Cy Young when he toes the rubber against the A’s.Damn right. Enough with the cap-tipping.
“This is the American League; there’s a lot of good pitchers,” he said. “You’re going to see a good pitcher most nights. Sometimes you’ll run into … a guy who’s really on top of his game and you have to tip your cap, but you can’t tip your cap every night.”
by Faust on Jul 29, 2008 4:40 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Greinke struck out 11 last night
but 6 were by Patterson and Cust so in reality the other players not named Crosby and Ellis did ok.
I can live with Patterson because he is pressing and trying to make a good impression on his new team, but I cannot live with Cust, he has to go. A career minor league player with no upside. An HR with 25 K’s every two weeks is not an asset.
by Laoren on Jul 29, 2008 11:25 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Commissioner
If I was the commissioner of baseball, unlike Bud Selig I would be on the phone right now. I be speaking to the owner of the A’s (who appears to love the Angels more), the good turned bad GM Beane, and ask them what do you think you are doing to baseball! Even if they got a cease and desist order against me I would still challange there absolute incompotence, Unforunately we all know what they are doing and there ain’t one thing we can do about it! Money has become more important that presenting a quality product to the Oakland A’s. Please stop selling me on the fact that with these young players we are a team of the future!
by aerobicsman on Jul 29, 2008 4:57 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Hyper-ventilating?
Thanks, at least for not making this rant into a fanpost.
The meaning of life is not so much 'found,' as it is 'made.' --Opus
by The Dogfather on Jul 29, 2008 7:18 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
incompotence can really get you in a jam
Worse than being dead is being hot. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jul 29, 2008 10:17 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Need to start our next twenty game winning streak
And Gil “I fought on the beaches of Normandy” Meche is just the guy to help us get going. Most interesting thing about Gil is his pitch count splits. 1-25, and 51-75 he holds guys to a .230 avg, 26-49, and 76-100 that avg is about 70 points higher…
"There's only one Ken Griffey ." Jay Bruce
by tresselfan on Jul 29, 2008 6:08 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
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