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We're Not As Rich Now, But We Still Have Duke

Poochini-butt_in_box_2_tiny by Nico on Comment 348 comments

Justin Duchscherer “fired” a two-hit shutout, and the A’s made single runs in each of the first two innings stand up. Final Score: A’s 2, Mariners 0.

A 1.78 ERA. That’s “Louisiana Lightning” territory – in 1978, Ron Guidry went 25-3 with a 1.74 ERA. It’s “Rocket”-level dominance – in 2005, Roger Clemens posted a 1.87 ERA for Houston. It’s the kind of “misprint stat” you expect to see more from someone like, I don’t know, say, Rich Harden? As long as he’s healthy, the Cubs are lucky to have Rich Harden. And the A’s are lucky to have Justin Duchscherer.

Coming into this series, the last time the A’s won a game in which they did not receive a walk? July 1st, 2006. They’ve done it each of the last two nights. Just another entry in the improbable season of “relentless contention against all reasonable odds” by your 2008 Oakland A’s – a team that keeps subtracting key pieces and adding to its winning percentage.

The A’s rotation just got younger, with the 22-year old Sean Gallagher on his way from Chicago to join Smith, Eveland, and behind them Gio Gonzalez, James Simmons, Trevor Cahill, and Brett Anderson. Blanton is a good innings-eater, but I can’t think of a better veteran to lead a young rotation by example in every way than Justin Duchscherer. I hope the A’s will work out an extension to keep Duchscherer as part of the nucleus going forward into the hopefully more-and-yet-more competitive 2009-2012 seasons. It’s a risk well worth taking, in my opinion – one that could make the A’s, and all their young pitchers, better for the gamble.

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First!

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 8, 2008 9:16 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

BaNnEd

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 8, 2008 9:19 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Noooo!

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 8, 2008 9:22 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

UPPERCASE, lowercase

did you just get banned by a teenage girl?

Green Hulk Fists

by oaklandSMASH on Jul 8, 2008 10:32 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If he's banned for that

then you should be banned for tHiS

by coberloco on Jul 9, 2008 4:06 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

does Urban even watch the A's anymore?

or is he just a Giant hack, now?

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:19 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Can we not turn a nice win-discussion into an Urban meta-thread?

That already happened once recently.

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 8, 2008 9:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

hey, he's the one who started it...

;-)

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:21 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Duke is awesome!

Definitely softens the sting of losing Harden. I still think the trade is OK, just don’t think Harden will stay healthy. I’d give him 20% chance of staying healthy the remainder of the season.

BTW, I think DFA is starting to look better, good catch in today’s game too.

by asfansince1989 on Jul 8, 2008 9:20 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Okay

So can we now say, pretty much universally, that it makes buckko sense to lock up The Duke for at least the next three years? This man is the ultimate diamond in the rough and he “wants” to stay in Oakland!!!!!!!!!!

Billy, please….........get the man inked to a long term deal now!

by mrod on Jul 8, 2008 9:57 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm up for three years - that only takes him to age 33

and he’s a guy who doesn’t rely on fastball velocity. His back has not been an issue since starting, and as a veteran presence on a young team his value will exceed whatever numbers he puts up.

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 8, 2008 9:58 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thank you Nico!

I rest my case…....Duke for 3 years guaranteed plus an option year for a 4th. What else does the man have to do to prove himself??

by mrod on Jul 8, 2008 10:10 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

beaux coups?

"Not in your wildest alcoholic nightmare would you ever imagines such events unfolding!" Bill King

by Buck Turgidson on Jul 8, 2008 10:05 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

no, I think he meant "bukkake sense"

As in, giving even a medium-term solid-money commitment to an aging pitcher with serious health issues could end up all over our face.

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 10:08 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

BQOTM

Blue…

hilarious

"Not in your wildest alcoholic nightmare would you ever imagines such events unfolding!" Bill King

by Buck Turgidson on Jul 8, 2008 10:11 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

......

My son, I’m not touching that with a thirty-foot pole. Next question.

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:16 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

not even with 5 Pierzynskis?

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 10:17 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

French for what Duchscherer throws.

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 11:05 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Urban just recommended trading Blanton, Street and Buck

for Matt Holiday.

Was Black Snake Moan a comedy or a drama?

by ohtobe21likehuston on Jul 8, 2008 9:21 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

SOMEBODY SET US UP THE TRADE

All your Buck are… oh, never mind.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 9:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't understand how that trade really helps either team going forward

Colorado doesn’t want guys a year or two away from free agency for Holliday. The A’s could certainly use that bat, but they’d never give him the big extension he’d want (if he didnt just test FA outright).

What a weird idea.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 9:22 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Duke is the freaking truth

What a fun gem to watch.

Bring back Hammer.

by OaktownPower on Jul 8, 2008 9:21 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Re: Duke Extension

2 years, club option for a 3rd. Whatever market value for a guy like him is is fine. I figure around $7 mil per year (2009 will be his last arby year).

By 2011, the year that option would kick in, the A’s expect to have a bunch of guys either in the rotation or knocking on the door. This gives them the flexibility to keep Duke if he’s awesome, let him go if he’s not, etc. It doesn’t tie them down for too many years for a guy who isn’t young. And it gives Duke 2 or 3 years of security. Maybe even make it a mutal option for that third year.

The talk of giving him more than 3 years is a bad idea, I think. Another extension can always be given later, but tying up a 30something pitcher for almost a half decade is just too risky, especially when the pipeline is full of guys.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 9:21 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Let's not forget

The dude is 30. I love him too, but there’s no reason to believe he’s going to get much better, or even maintain this performance.

I love his pitching this year, but he has had some recurring injury issues in the past. Pretty risky to sign long term.

by Crosbino on Jul 8, 2008 9:26 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he'll be happy with that...

so, will we. But, his trade value is so HIGH. I think we should move him.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:28 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Be glad I'm computer illiterate

and don’t know where to find a flag…

Green Hulk Fists

by oaklandSMASH on Jul 8, 2008 10:34 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good thing you're not patriotic

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 8, 2008 10:36 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If you were patriotic, you'd find it on your lapel

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 11:07 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thanks Tex

3-2 over LAAA. 5 games back!

by asfansince1989 on Jul 8, 2008 9:22 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Die Doomsayer! Die!

5 games back at this point is nothing.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:24 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

our run differential says we're better...

much better, actually. So, die doomsayers!

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:29 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

haha...

let’s… when your Angels go on a scoring binge. Good luck.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:33 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

hehe...

I thought that was a nice coup de grâce. But, really, do you think they’ll out-score us by the end of the season? I think not.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:38 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

almost half a season left...

to find out. That’s why I like baseball. Long seasons.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:45 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I believe him

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:30 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We'll see

If we DFA DFA and replace with Murton, that’s a big improvement.

If Gallagher beats his PECOTA projection (5+ ERA/1.5 WHIP) and becomes a legit starter we don’t lose much over Harden

So it could well be. I’m still iffy on that second one, but I’m doing a DFA dance as we speak.

by nevermoor on Jul 8, 2008 9:32 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I suspect Gallagher will do better

than his projection. The A’s really like him and they know what they’re doing. And they targeted him because they felt he was major-league ready now.

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 8, 2008 9:37 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Beane probably did, and found that

1. Harden wasn’t going to command, from anyone, nearly as much as AN thought or hoped.
2. The Cubs would offer the most.

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 8, 2008 9:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

anyone who thought another team...

was going to back up the truck for Harden was smokin’ the same crack pipe as Amy Wino.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:43 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's not quite fair -

A desperate team (feeling the pressure of making a move) + a tremendous talent can yield a lopsided deal in the right moment.

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 8, 2008 9:45 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I suppose it's possible...

but, with younger, more computer savvy GM’s (and, idiots like Bavasi out of the game), less and less likely.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:48 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think the Mulder deal was largely panic

They could have done better to run with Haren as is – he was ready to start and emerge within a year – and they offered way too much for someone who was already showing signs of decline.

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 8, 2008 9:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

that's true...

they obviously didn’t run the same number (if any) of computer simulations as the A’s did. My point exactly. They relied on their scouts. Them eyes.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:53 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Uhh,

if they relied on their scouts, surely they would have seen what many A’s fans, who watched Mulder pitched throughout 2004, saw. All the big honking red flags, the decrease in stuff, velocity.

ZIPS: Milledge: 466 HR, 485 2B, 2282 hits, 278-379-524

by rfloh on Jul 8, 2008 10:56 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

fans always know their own players...

better than scouts.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 9, 2008 2:55 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Disagree

If Mulder was right-handed, I doubt Cardinals would have made that trade. St. Louis had long sought a solid left-handed starter and at the time, Mulder was considered the best lefty starter available, even though his numbers were beginning to show signs of decline. What happened to Mulder injury-wise in St. Louis coupled with Haren’s success and Harden’s injury history probably made the Cardinals a bit gun-shy for Harden. I think Marshall, being a big-league ready left-hander-though I think an average one, was the keystone. Decent lefties have the highest value in MLB and you typically have to pay more (in money or tradable talent) than they are really worth-unless they are like Steve Carlton or Andy Pettitte.

by RedbirdattheBeach on Jul 8, 2008 10:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Haren v. Gallagher

Haren (Traded @ Age 24) – Minor League Stats

474.2 – IP
3.15 – ERA
8.77 – K/9
1.13 – WHIP
1.63 – BB/9
0.89 – HR/9

Gallagher (Age 22) – Minor League Stats

481 – IP
2.77 – ERA
9.02 – K/9
1.24 – WHIP
3.52 – BB/9
0.49 – HR/9

The BB/9 are a little worrisome for Gallagher, but he’s only 22 years old. And it looks like Gallagher keeps the ball down, and induces more groundballs than Haren.

by Colorado Fan on Jul 8, 2008 10:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

oops

got my “Sean’s” mixed up: SCrubs gave up Gallagher, a rightey, not Marshall the lefty … still, I just don’t get it from Oakland’s perspective … they should have got more than the mediocrity for two good (one great when healthy) pitchers … sickening … even if Gallagher turns out to be decent, I still say Oakland got taken on this one.

by RedbirdattheBeach on Jul 8, 2008 11:02 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Nico give me soem info

So why Couldnt we get vitters in the deal and why did we take this deal?

by buckfan6 on Jul 8, 2008 9:49 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I have no idea who we could have gotten,

and who we wanted more than whom. Maybe Vitters wasn’t on the table, maybe it was him or Gallagher and the A’s think Gallagher is better – only Beane knows and he ain’t talking.

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 8, 2008 9:51 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I know vitters is real young and has a ways to go

hes third basemen which we need. I just think if you look at weeks and patterson there similiar players

by buckfan6 on Jul 8, 2008 9:52 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Patterson doesn't "suck"

He’s raw, probably immature. Looking at his scouting profile, he reminded me a lot of Cano – one could do worse. In any event, if Weeks and Patterson are redundant, maybe one of them gets dealt to get us a bat, another pitcher, etc. at some point in the next couple years.

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 8, 2008 9:56 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Cano was starting (and hitting) in the majors at age 22

Patterson has been unable to beat out Mark DeRosa and Ryan Fontenot for a job at age 25.

Bit of a difference. Besides, Cano is actually a plus fielder according to the various zone ratings.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 10:10 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Along the lines of the "tallest midget" argument seen here earlier

(i.e., netting the Cubs’ “top prospects” is akin to being the “tallest midget”)...

Holding it against a player for not being properly used by the Cubs isn’t really a knock on him, it just reaffirms that the Cubs are so far up their own asses that they need a glass belt buckle to see.

For what it’s worth, Baseball Prospectus thinks he’s a big-leaguer.

Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.

by Joey C. on Jul 8, 2008 10:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And Sickels has him as a "B" grade

Maybe he won’t be any good, but he’s definitely a prospect.

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 8, 2008 10:43 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Patterson is definitely no Cano

The key isue is whether he can play 2b adequately. His minor league numbers are decent for a 2b.

ZIPS: Milledge: 466 HR, 485 2B, 2282 hits, 278-379-524

by rfloh on Jul 8, 2008 11:04 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Josh Vitters' brother

(Christian) is in the A’s system

(Formerly Nobody Girl)
"We are a complete freak show." -- Billy Beane

by day-to-day on Jul 9, 2008 3:57 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Then you keep him

And see if the market improves during the offseason.

The counter argument: He gets hurt again and you don’t get much in return for him.

Counter to that: They didn’t get much in return for him (and Gaudin) in the first place, so how would waiting really be worse?

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 9:45 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Counter to that

They got a promising 22 year old MLB pitcher and someone to play LF who is one of our 3 best hitters. We also got someone who can play 2B next year if we can’t keep Ellis. Oh and a prospect Catcher who was highly regarded before struggling some this year.

by nevermoor on Jul 9, 2008 9:47 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Counter to that

We’ve already got a ton of promising pitchers, that LF isn’t even being put on the 25 man roster, and the 2B is an awful fielder and was on the bench in favor of Mark DaRosa.

by mikev on Jul 9, 2008 10:12 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Another phrase that needs banning

if we can’t keep Ellis

There isn’t any “if” about this. The A’s can keep Ellis. If they choose not to, it wasn’t because of some irresistible cosmic fate, it’s because they didn’t want to frigging re-sign him.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 9, 2008 10:15 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Cubs were the only team

talking Harden. No other teams, according to Billy.
The A’s wanted Gallagher. Otherwise no deal. Apparently Gallagher was the reason it took “weeks” to come around.. A’s have “liked” Gallagher for some time.

"I never predict anything, and I never will." Paul Gascoigne, English footballer

by One won lost won on Jul 8, 2008 10:22 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

In one of the other threads, someone said

St Louis was asking for Swooney along with Harden.

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 11:11 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Murton replaces Brown immediately...

regardless of whether Brown is DFA’d or not. Although, I don’t see how he couldn’t be, but… maybe Billy will find a taker for another prospect. Who knows?

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Brown - >

another huge two out hit tonite….

"...in baseball you wear a cap." -- george carlin

by Hot Cup Joe on Jul 8, 2008 9:58 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Isn't that

his first hit since, like, May?

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:00 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Technically he had one in June

when he hit a routine roller to second and Carlos Gonzalez ran out onto the field and let it carom off his leg.

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 8, 2008 10:01 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Does

CarGo get an assist for that?

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:02 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Strangely, the assist was

given to John Lucas.

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 8, 2008 10:03 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Dude

this game is rigged. You know the umpires are hired and policed by the league, right?

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:04 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

buzz kill

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:02 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I literally

stopped what I was doing and looked at the television in shock (complete with agape mouth) when he got a hit with a RiSP. Two outs, even.

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:06 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I did too, which was odd because

what I was doing was watching the game.

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

by Nico on Jul 8, 2008 10:07 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

EXACTLY

Me too, which makes no sense. You’re watching the game, something normal and routine happens and you’re shocked.

Um, this probably doesn’t bode well for Email’s future with our (thanks, Hawk!) club, does it?

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:08 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

btw... independent rant (not related to your post in any derogatory way)...

but, those who complain about those of “us,” and I include myself among them, who refer to the A’s as “us” and “we,” well… I and we pay their fuckin’ salaries (even though we don’t write the checks); we wear their names on the back of our shirts; we have our kids get their autographs. So, to those who are offended by “we” or “us” when fans refer to the A’s… fuck you!

Okay, I’m done.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:14 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's funny

My boss pays my salary, but he doesn’t usually refer to me as “we.”

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 10:16 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

you must not work for microsoft or...

any other big corporation.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:16 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oh

I kind of agree with you, and especially the “us” as ANers, but I love making fun of Hawk. He’s an idiot and this is a softball.

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:18 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oh, don't get me wrong...

I hate Hawk as much as the next A’s fan, but using an outlier idiot like him to exclude all reasonable fans is like… is like… ummm… using… I can’t think of a good analogy.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:21 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The "us" and "we" thing doesn't bother me per se

But it always sounded silly.

What bothers me more is something I heard over the weekend when I was wearing a Patriots jersey: “You guys ruined my Super Bowl Sunday, you know that?”

My response: I’m not on the team. I was just sitting at home watching the game.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 9:48 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Galt loves grapes, too...

oh… agape. Nevermind.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:09 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gault?

This is Speedy Willie and he’s world class. He likes the run, but he loves to get the pass.

He was just shuffling through, you know. Next to Walter, in case you didn’t know…

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:14 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Curt Young

just said “Shit” in his post-game interview

"The two of them deserve each other. One's a born liar, the other's convicted."

by SwampyD on Jul 8, 2008 9:23 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah

Me and my girl caught that “blooper” as well. Fucking hilarious!!!!!! Go Curt!

by mrod on Jul 8, 2008 10:07 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Let me guess the context:

Hey Curt, we just traded Harden and Gaudin for Sean Gallagher!

“Shit”

by VORP is too nerdy on Jul 8, 2008 9:26 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You kidding?

If Gallagher pans out, Young gets huge props. It’s a real opportunity for him (and proof we trust him)

by nevermoor on Jul 8, 2008 9:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yep.

I’m kidding.

I realize that this trade looks pretty sweet the moment Rich Harden falls out of bed.

by VORP is too nerdy on Jul 8, 2008 9:33 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Really?

But Chad Gaudin is better than anybody the A’s got in the deal, too. The A’s gave up the TWO best players.

Unelss Matt Murton starts hitting 30 homers a year, I don’t see this trade ever being better than a wash for Oakland.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 9:49 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

As far as present value I'd rank the players:

Harden (until he gets injured)
Gallagher
Gaudin
Murton
Catcher Guy
Patterson

And I don’t think Gallagher vs. Gaudin is even very close

by nevermoor on Jul 9, 2008 10:00 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gallagher is league average in a bad league

Gaudin is well above average in a good league.

Right now, Gaudin is quite a bit better. In three years, that might not be the case.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 10:42 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gallagher also pitched in

Wrigley fricken field. And Gaudin in out way pitcher friendly park.

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 9, 2008 11:23 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

In Our* way

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 9, 2008 11:25 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

22 year olds tend to make "leaps and bounds"

more quickly and often than guys who are “league-age”. Gaudin will probably do fine in the NL, serving as a solid #3-#4 or quality reliever. But to think of Gallagher stepping it up to be a solid #3 right now, even though he hasn’t been for the Cubs so far, is not a stretch.

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 9, 2008 11:26 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Exactly

22, league minimum for the next several years, and pitching in one of the most hitter-skewed parks in the league still has an acceptable ERA.

Far more valuable than Gaudin + his 1.7M salary + his Coliseum/Defense aided stats.

by nevermoor on Jul 9, 2008 11:28 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pretty much!

Could not believe it when I heard it so I hit rewind and it was still, “Shit!”.

by mrod on Jul 8, 2008 10:12 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

CLAY!

Doesn’t he represent Maryland’s 10th District?

That’s right folks, you could say this meat has been on the disabled list for 21 days.--Marty Lurie

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 11:01 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I recognize this reference

Hooray for small victories.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 11:19 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

IOTM!

Poppy, I hope you’re paying attention.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I heard that too

I couldn’t trust my own ears there, but that definitely was a ‘shite’.

"There's m'fn sprinklers on the m'fn infield!'" - Ice Cream (AN), 6/13/08

by doctorK on Jul 8, 2008 9:26 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We've had years and years of this stupid seven-second delay

and the one time someone utters an obscenity it still gets on the air—and it’s a middle-aged employee of the A’s organization.

Don't blame me, I voted for Ice Cream

by Englishmajor on Jul 8, 2008 9:46 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

"C'mon, Curt - use the 'Preview' function!"

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 8, 2008 9:48 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Fuck that!

Shit!

Stomper is a badass!

by lynnzgal on Jul 8, 2008 9:53 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I can think of no better way to usher in the post-Harden era...

Duke was King tonight. This game helped remind me what the A’s are about, have been about and will be about – PITCHING.

Harden – we hardly knew you, I can’t believe you only had 36 wins for the A’s…it feels like you were here forever. Gaudin – you’re welcome. The A’s resurected your career after TB and TOR tried to destoy it. Good luck to you both!

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

by athleticsBB4life on Jul 8, 2008 9:29 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good luck

To the Cubs!

Stomper is a badass!

by lynnzgal on Jul 8, 2008 9:55 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I, by contrast, can now root AGAINST the Cubs

since they have now combined my natural dislike of Harden with stealing him in a trade.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 10:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Isn't that like

rooting against the Washington Generals?

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:21 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You root FOR the Washington Generals?

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 10:23 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

dude

you eat pieces of shit for breakfast?

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:24 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And besides, if the Warriors traded Monta Ellis

to the Washington Generals for… for… well, for any of the Washington Generals, hell yes I’d root against them.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 10:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good man

I like your fire, the cut of your gib…you’ll go far in the firm, Thomas, mark my words….

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Is it gib or jib?

I’m a little behind on my Pirate Lingo classes.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 10:31 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I was actually playing lawyer there,

but since you’ve mistaken my lawyer impression with pirate, perhaps I should give up the play-acting altogether…

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:33 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Arrrrrrgghhh! Me can't be writin' much with me hook for a hand.

Alas, me spellin’ suffers.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 9:51 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Arrrrrrrrrgghhh!!!

Me have steering wheel embedded in groin, and it’s driving me nuts!!!

Har!

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 9, 2008 10:18 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

BTW...Dan Meyer 2 hit shutout through 8 for Sac.

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

by athleticsBB4life on Jul 8, 2008 9:32 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Bonus BTW: James Simmons

James Simmons
Midland (AA)
Another 8 IP of shutout ball (2 Straight Outings)

8 IP
2 Hits
0 ER
11 K

by Colorado Fan on Jul 8, 2008 11:00 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Murton

Anyone else worried that Matt Murton is a glorified Bobby Kielty? Please tell me I’m wrong but I looked at their numbers at the same point in their careers and they’re pretty similar.

What worries me is this: Kielty looked GREAT in limited action when he was on the Twins, and if you projected his numbers to a full season, he was projected to hit 30 homers or something. I’m afraid that Murton is the same kinda deal. In limited action, he performs, but when put out there everyday (like Kielty often was for us) he gets exposed.

Anyone see the similarity? Please tell me Murton is going to outperform Kietly. Please …

by Crosbino on Jul 8, 2008 9:33 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Murton

always struck me more as a right-handed Travis Buck, only a little more consistent.

by VORP is too nerdy on Jul 8, 2008 9:36 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Murton's career line

against RHP is .282/.346/.422 (.768 OPS).

That’s awfully solid, considering that his career line against LHP is a truly solid .316/.389/.494 (.882 OPS).

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 8, 2008 9:40 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yep

He’s just plain better than Kielty. I’ve wanted him for awhile

by nevermoor on Jul 8, 2008 9:47 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

okay, I'll tell you that you're wrong...

Murton is going to be a stud for us in LF. Allowing Cust to concentrate on DHing (because Frank ain’t comin’ back), which will allow Cust to hit 40 HR’s in the second half. Feel better?

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 9:56 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yes

That makes me feel better. Only 40 homers in the second half for Cust?

by Crosbino on Jul 8, 2008 9:59 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Murton won't be a stud IN LF though

He’s not much defensively. He’s gonna need to sustain his limited time numbers to be a truly valuable (as opposed to 4th/5th OF) player.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 9:53 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

With Cust DHing

He’s an everyday starter for us. He’ll never be a superstar, but he isn’t platoon-only either.

If we don’t DFA DFA soon I’m going to assume there’s a compromising picture of Beane involved

by nevermoor on Jul 9, 2008 10:01 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I love Duke

And I was assuming I would see either him or Harden dealt. To be quite frank, I’m glad it’s Harden. I get tired of chewing my nails down to their cuticles every time Rich pitches waiting for him to go down. I honestly hope that he does remain healthy and help the Cubs win because I did love the guy. But rooting for him was exhausting because you were always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

As for Duke, I just love the guy. He’s cerebral. He’s all about control. And he’s all about succeeding despite not having the greatest natural gifts. He doesn’t have the same ability to throw the occasional mistake that a Harden does, so I’ve always loved him pitching. It’s why Jennifer, Sharon and I share tattoos on our rear ends that spell out Duchschererererererer.

by Blez on Jul 8, 2008 9:39 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

+1

couldda been Duke in today’s trade.

by asfansince1989 on Jul 8, 2008 9:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

How exactly do

you, Jennifer, and Sharon share the same tatt—

You know, never mind. I don’t really want to know.

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 8, 2008 9:42 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We might havve been the first ones on the Duke bandwagon.

How long ago has that been?

Mark Ellis: sent down from Heaven to rob Evil of hits and hand out rainbows

by Jennifer on Jul 8, 2008 10:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well, let's see, what are you now, 57?

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 8, 2008 10:26 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That was Chad's number.

[sob]

Mark Ellis: sent down from Heaven to rob Evil of hits and hand out rainbows

by Jennifer on Jul 8, 2008 10:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Who's Chad?

Just practicing.

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 8, 2008 10:29 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Didn't we used to have

some guy on our team named Chad…?

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:34 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No, we had someone FROM Chad

I think his name was Michel, but he went by Garcia to get into this country.

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 8, 2008 10:35 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Inoa

heard it somewhere before….

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:36 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Harville?

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 11:22 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Chads

We actually had two Chads on the team AT THE SAME TIME, Bradford and Harville. Which seemed a statistical improbability.

Enjoy the game

by DCinWC on Jul 9, 2008 9:35 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Remember when 80% of the roster was named Chad or Mark?

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on Jul 9, 2008 10:15 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

remember Beane binging on "K____" players?

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 9, 2008 3:19 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Bradford!

But I like Ziggy more.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 9:53 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ahem

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 10:37 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You rule

Monkey. We all bow to your prowess and power.

It’s your world Monkey. The rest of us are merely renting space.

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:39 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

speaking of which, where's my check?

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 10:43 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

didn't your personal assistant tell you?

Well, I was in a car wreck late last week. I was taking my mother-in-law to the doctor’s office, when all of a sudden one of those big, scary SUVs pulled out in front of on the 580. I was drinking my Starbucks-you know I like the quad espresso with the non-fat foam kinda lopped on top of it. The baristas keep telling me it’s basically machiatto, but screw that! I’m not ordering no “machiatto”-the next thing you know I’ll be wearing ballet shoes and blowing guys behind the 7-11-so anyways, we’re driving along and all of a sudden, this mountain of a car jumps out in front of us. I totally freak! I jerk in reaction and throw my quad shot right in Mom’s face. So she’s screaming and flailing her arms and cursing me—she actually said I told my daughter not to marry you, you insane little dwarf! I mean, I’m not even short! Where the hell does she get off telling me that I’m short? I’m like 5’10” or close to it, how is that even close to short? So she’s obviously in pain and not loving her son-in-law at this point, but she’s being a total spaz and I’m like driving on 580 and she’s screaming and wailing and flailing and all this other stuff, right? And i’m trying to avoid this tank going 65 in front of me. And he’s on his cell phone, just talking a blue streak, not a care in the world, and of course he’s still got his Starbucks, the bastard. So I roll down the window and I’m flipping him the bird and telling him how his lifestyle choices have negatively affected three generations of my family and his automotive choices are bound to affect the lives of my many seed cast throughout the land. That’s when I get a text message from Barbara, not Barbara Kenton, mind you, but Barbara Shirrell, the one that works at that clinic I took you to that time, the one I promised never to tell anyone about at all…

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:54 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

someone should have informed me that macchiatos are a gateway drug

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 11:48 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

disturbing
throw my quad shot right in Mom’s face.

by cvdoug on Jul 8, 2008 11:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Given that this was Starbucks

you could call it a money shot.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 11:52 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We're back

to bukake, aren’t we? Freud would have had a field day with my free write…

That’s right folks, you could say this meat has been on the disabled list for 21 days.--Marty Lurie

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 9, 2008 7:44 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don't believe you.

Not even Thunderbutt has a rear end that wide.

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 11:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The great thing about a guy like Duke,

as opposed to a guy like Harden, is that even if he doesn’t have his best stuff during a start he can still get by with what got him here; pinpoint control. Guys like Harden can’t get through those kinds of starts because their control just isnt as good. Take Harden’s last couple starts for example; his stuff isn’t as sharp (“dead arm”) and he wobbles almost uncontrollably because he can’t hit his spots. With Duke you’re always comfortable with him pitching because he can make hitters look silly with an 87 mph “fast”ball when he continually paints the black. Three cheers for Duke!

"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin

by Helloooo 1st on Jul 8, 2008 11:28 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I present to you... King Duke

He’s a Duke and a King now!

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

by IowaA'sFan on Jul 8, 2008 9:39 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Can I get two BK Broilers and a small Pepsi?

{shouts into Kielty’s mouth}

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 8, 2008 9:47 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

{shouts into Kielty’s mouth}

That is freaking hilarious, and by far the funniest thing I’ve read in awhile.

It's Rhodes Scholar Night at the Coliseum tonight.

by Scottbass on Jul 8, 2008 9:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

QOTM

so it’s findable.

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

by oblique on Jul 8, 2008 10:47 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

thanks...

that’s the hardest i’ve laughed reading something on the internet in ages.

by simbiant on Jul 9, 2008 7:02 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Well, it was hastily done

without a proper photo editing program. Long live the king!

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

by IowaA'sFan on Jul 8, 2008 9:52 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I was just kidding

It just struck me as funny. He kind of looked like Terrence and Philip from South Park. with their heads separating when they talk.

by Blez on Jul 8, 2008 9:56 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Can I kill Kenny?

(Rogers)

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 8, 2008 9:57 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

AN has such a plethora of hilarious posters...

way more than any other blog. Of course, my opinion is skewed by the fact that I don’t read any other blogs, but, I’m sure it’s true.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:01 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That comment is SO you!

Of course I’ve never met you, but I’m sure it’s true.

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 8, 2008 10:02 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'd like to meet Cindi...

she’s got the better personality.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:03 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

FWIW, Cindi's main reaction to you is,

“There’s no i to dot! ???”

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 8, 2008 10:04 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That's why I like her...

unattainable.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:06 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wait? Cindi "has a nice personality"??

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 11:24 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oh

My god! You had to say that!

Stomper is a badass!

by lynnzgal on Jul 8, 2008 9:57 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And

ass ramming cock blaster?

by MobiusKlein on Jul 8, 2008 10:32 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A's SPs today

Duke: 9IP 2H 4K 0BB
Meyer: 8 IP 2H 8 K 0BB(A great sign; if he finds his command maybe there’s a teeny tiny bit of hope)
Simmons: 8 IP 2 H 11K 0BB

As for hitting, not so many great signs. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Duke but I really think that if we can get two major hitting prospects/young sluggers (AND ONLY THEN), hopefully MI ones we should look into trading him. Duke and Street for Brignac and Upton? If not, can we at least please go after Dallas MacPherson? I’m one of Donnie Murphy’s biggest fans but he and Hannahan are killing us.

Since Ellis has been pretty healthy recently how about a couple of tries at SS if his arm can stand it? We could then play Patterson at 2b and I would not have to worry about Ellie being traded.

"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy." - Don Sutton

by vignette17 on Jul 8, 2008 9:41 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oooh, that's cold

Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.

by Joey C. on Jul 8, 2008 10:48 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Burn!

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on Jul 9, 2008 8:14 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I was at the Angels and Rangers game tonight

I talk to Mathis and he said he was shocked about the trade

by buckfan6 on Jul 8, 2008 9:43 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It was the Angels who thought Harden was hurt

I would think they would be the least surprised of anyone.

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 8, 2008 9:44 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Why do we need him to hit in the post game interview?

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 8, 2008 9:48 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

They need him to clear out the horde of local reporters

demanding to know why the team is trading away major leaguers for minor leaguers again.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 9:50 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If there are a horde of reporters at an a's event

stop the presses (the intertubes?) – that’s the story….

"...in baseball you wear a cap." -- george carlin

by Hot Cup Joe on Jul 8, 2008 10:04 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I thought that's what you wanted them to do...

Billy is only obliging.

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

by FoolshGame22 on Jul 8, 2008 10:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wow

Relentless on the Harden/Gaudin for Gallagher/Murton/Donaldson Trade. I bet you would have taken this trade on the majority of the dates below…

Disabled List: [May 15,2005] – 15 Day Disabled list – (strained left oblique muscle) [Jun 21,2005] – Activated [Apr 28,2006] – 15 Day Disabled list – (muscle strain in his back) [Jun 4,2006] – Activated [Jun 8,2006] – 15 Day Disabled list – (sprained ligament in his right elbow) [Sep 21,2006] – Activated [Apr 23,2007] – 15 Day Disabled list – (Right shoulder) [Jun 21,2007] – [Jul 12,2007] – 15 Day Disabled list – (Right shoulder inflammation) [Aug 22,2007] – Transferred to 60 day DL. [April 10, 2008] Placed Rich Harden on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 3;

I know you wanted Colby Rasmus, but c’mon. That wasn’t even close to happening.

by Colorado Fan on Jul 8, 2008 11:14 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

How about just ONE guy who projects to be a good everyday position player

Just one.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 9:59 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yea there was delay cause of storms

Mathis was just chillen, he said there glad hes out fo the Al west with a laugh

by buckfan6 on Jul 8, 2008 9:45 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Anyone saw Geren's post game interview

Talking about Duke’s game, he was smiling like the kids with the coolest toy. He knows he’s got a good one to hand the ball to.

by asfansince1989 on Jul 8, 2008 9:46 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gio is not ready IMO

Some of his AAA starts are flat out terrible. He needs more seasoning I would think. Looks like he is either lights out or they blow his lights out. He is a good one though so lets hope for the future.

by Trainman on Jul 8, 2008 9:49 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Please god yes

and no. Gallagher is #5 now

by nevermoor on Jul 8, 2008 9:49 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Dude, you're a dyslexic typist

Goes well with m-m-mmmy st-st-stttttt-st-sttutter.

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 8, 2008 9:52 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gallagher to start Fri against LAAA

Wow, speaking of tossing the kid into the deep end of the pool. This being such an unpopular trade with the fans, he better have a good outing. I feel for the kid already.

by asfansince1989 on Jul 8, 2008 9:52 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

His mental toughness has been praised -

I guess it will be tested early.

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 8, 2008 10:00 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I was praised for mental toughness...

til the teacher made me cry.

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:01 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I used to piss my teachers off

I got 4 detentions in one day out of 5 classes.

English, Science, Math and Phys Ed.

That was many, many years ago back in NZ. I used to work for a horse trainer and later on owned my own horses and would work the horses after school and give one of my teacher’s tips and he would bet them. I could get away with murder in that class.

by Trainman on Jul 8, 2008 10:15 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You? Trainman? Pissed people off?

But you’re so mild and sweet-tempered.

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 11:27 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wow

That guy’s mother must hang out at a lot of truck stops.

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 9:57 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No!

Lode! I feel like I’ve lost my best freind.

Stomper is a badass!

by lynnzgal on Jul 8, 2008 10:00 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's just wrong....

"Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. Not all games and holes are created equal." --George F. Will

by anomaly_kat on Jul 8, 2008 10:42 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And we'll be looking at Murton in a Cubs hat until 2012...

... when he leaves for the White Sox.

Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.

by Joey C. on Jul 8, 2008 10:51 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah

apparently timely hitting and smart base running can win games too, who knew?

by asfansince1989 on Jul 8, 2008 10:08 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

technically your pitchers just make sure you don't lose a game

and needs help from offense to win the games for them, unless if you are in NL and the pitcher hits a game winning HR.

by asfansince1989 on Jul 8, 2008 10:15 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The Duke

So apropo, before the break, and the ASB.

Stomper is a badass!

by lynnzgal on Jul 8, 2008 10:40 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The A's scored 2 runs tonight

Would’ve helped to have more guys on base. They won because Duke didn’t allow Mariners to score. It’s impossible to lose in that situation.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 9, 2008 10:01 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It also helps a lot

to face two not-very-good pitchers who throw lots of strikes, supported by a terrible offense.

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 11:29 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

"You're stealing my money! Just like Kielty did!"

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 8, 2008 10:24 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

now

THAT’S funny.

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Haha! Can't even load that

story. Is everyone in here trying to read that right now?

Stomper is a badass!

by lynnzgal on Jul 8, 2008 10:29 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Murton ticketed for Sacramento?

That’s ridiculous. He should immediately be made our starting LF for the rest of the season.

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

by jeepers on Jul 9, 2008 11:57 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The more I think about it and analyze it

The more I am okay with this trade. The minor league/major league numbers of the guys we got are pretty solid, if unspectacular. We weren’t going to get top talent with Harden’s injury problems. Harden’s significant lost velocity combined with his injury history is a red flag. What if he has a dead arm the rest of the season? Can we afford not to trade him now? We are 5 games back of the Angels still and with our injury concerns, it looks like they will run away with the division. We can still remain competitive, but I think we took advantage of the opportunity to get younger and improve depth even more with all these injuries.

Gaudin is a throw in. He would’ve been in the rotation with Harden gone, but now that we have Gallagher, we get a little younger and more potential in the process. Remember that Gaudin wasn’t nearly the prospect that Gallagher was and we turned him into a solid major league starter. We have so many young arms coming up that Gaudin has almost no value for us going forward. Cahill, Simmons, et al. will be ready next year and there’s no point in keeping Gaudin.

Murton is a solid hitter (~.800 OPS, great compared to our other corner outfield options) and will be the RH platoon guy Emil Brown was supposed to be. I like him as a 4th outfielder who gets 350 ABs a season.

Donaldson had great numbers last year (1.000+ OPS, that’s crazy) but has struggled mightily this year. He’s still somewhat young at 22, although he’s too old to struggle at A ball. He’s a flyer pick, and if he works out we’ll be calling Beane a genius. He’s got a great bat, he’s just had an uncharacteristically bad year.

I like Gallagher the best; good young arm who has maintained solid progression so far through the minors. Good WHIP, solid K/9 and K/BB rates. He’s gotten less hittable as he’s progressed in age. And he’s only 22. Very nice under the radar pickup. Just another young arm to add to the stable.

Patterson is a meh throw in. He’s got speed and some decent pop, but hasn’t shown terrific on base skills and I don’t really think he’ll be any better than a .750 OPS guy in the majors. He’s a utility guy at best but a better option than Murphy or Hannahan. He’ll be a stopgap at 2B between Ellis and Weeks.

The entire trade makes sense, it just takes awhile to get there because some of the talent is still relatively unproven compared to two major league arms in Gaudin and Harden. There is a definite plan here, and Beane looks like he knows what he’s doing yet again.

I fully expect Blanton to be gone next for some insurance options at SS and 3B.

Prince: This bores me. Is anyone up for a game of basketball?

by baseb3383 on Jul 8, 2008 10:17 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Can we get a viable option at SS

if we package Blanton and Bobby? Maybe the Cards want pitching now…

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:23 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The Cards have nothing at shortstop, not even in their system.

Cesar Izturis? Aaron Miles? Brendan Ryan?

Not any better than Crosby, and in a lot of ways worse.

by VORP is too nerdy on Jul 8, 2008 10:25 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Cesar Izturis is arguably better than Crosby

because his contract expires sooner.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 10:28 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

In that case,

Johnnie LeMaster for MVP!!!

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 8, 2008 10:30 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If Bobby Crosby hurts his (fill in the blank)

and there’s no one there to see it, does it really happen?

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:31 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We may have an opportunity to find out

during the remainder of the season.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 10:32 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What if a tree falls on him in the forest?

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 8, 2008 10:34 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Then PT

cut it and I pushed it over on him.

Fortunately, this is his age-28 year: his killing productivity is likely to decline. Impressive range, though. -Monkeyball

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 8, 2008 10:34 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What makes me ok with it is knowing that

the minor leaguers, as a group, are probably better than I think because the A’s really know who to target. And I think Murton will be a good addition to the lineup right now.

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 8, 2008 10:28 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If Patterson can be a 750 OPS

guy in MLB, while playing average D, that’s a league average 2b, not a utility infielder.

His minor league numbers are solid. Except for 37 PAs in 2005 in AA in the Southern at age 22, he’s been above the league average OPS for his league, every year, at every level, in the minors.

His on base skills aren’t terrific, but he isn’t a Jeff Francoeur either. His career OBP is 365. Except for those 37 PAs in 2005, his OBP in the minors has been above the league average in every season, at every level.

ZIPS: Milledge: 466 HR, 485 2B, 2282 hits, 278-379-524

by rfloh on Jul 8, 2008 11:20 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So PT Do you like Murton?

I think he should be in LF ASAP. Just would like your take on him.

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 8, 2008 11:34 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'm not high on him at all

The trend in his stats is all downward. He may be a guy who peaked at a young age.

I agree he’s better than the alternatives, but I’d be looking for an upgrade stat in the offseason.

I really don’t like this package. At all. There’s no player here with even a semblance of major-league upside except the A-ball catcher.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 11:37 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I dont hate the deal...

Gallagher looks like a good young arm. He could be good in our park. Murton Id like see in LF over Brown. Patterson is just insurance for Ellis. And the catcher is a high risk/high reward throw in.

All in all its not great but its prob the best deal out there. If there was a better deal then Im sure Beane woulda taken it.

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 8, 2008 11:41 PM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You know

I really do respect your opinions as they are almost always well-informed, if nothing else.

So I’m scared. Someone, hold me.

That’s right folks, you could say this meat has been on the disabled list for 21 days.--Marty Lurie

by Leopold Bloom on Jul 9, 2008 7:48 AM PDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Murton to start in AAA

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

by athleticsBB4life on Jul 8, 2008 10:36 PM PDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs