What Crosby Has to do to Gain Some Credibility - from me
by Taj Adib on Jan 25, 2009 10:00 AM PST
159 comments
I'll be honest: I like Bobby Crosby as a person. He seems like a really nice guy, a good teammate and he has a few things in common with me: white-guy, mid-to-late 20s, Southern California native who went to a Southern California college known as a baseball powerhouse. Yet, I'm not blind to the truly awful season he had last year and to his myriad of struggles over the past three.
But...I'm tenuously confident that he can earn back some confidence from me (and maybe even you) if given another 600 at-bats to prove himself in 2009. I hope he gets this opportunity for several reasons: 1) as stated above, I think he's a good guy, 2) he's got every incentive NOT to suck next season, 3) I personally dislike Orlando Cabrera, 4) he won't cost a draft pick to plug into the lineup and MOST importantly 4) he's going to be earning $5+ million next season and taking up a roster spot whether he gets those at-bats or not.
Now, I know for many of you, Crosby is just beyond salvation. That might still be true when all is said and done, and yet it's worth noting that even with his God-awful 2008 season at the plate, fangraphs nevertheless tabulated that Crosby was worth roughly the exact salary he was paid for his efforts last season. That is not an optimal outcome for a team like the A's that need production to surpass salary, and yet it's still an interesting indicator about how little a decent-fielding shortstop needs to hit in order to be valuable to his team.
So basically, I'm going to keep my personal expectations for Crosby very low for 2009. Let's say, league-average fielding and approaching (but not surpassing or even meeting a .700 OPS). I'm much more confident about the fielding part than the hitting part. UZR had Crosby as exactly league-average last season. Seeing as how Bobby is coming off his first fully healthy season in 4 years, is still in his prime (age 29) and has never had a UZR rating below -1.1, I'm going to say that league average glove work is perfectly within reason for him going forward.
As far as the hitting goes, I'm going to out on a limb here, but I think Bobby can approach a .700 OPS with just an ever-so-slight improvement at the plate and favorable health (I know, two concepts foreign to Crosby, but I'm gonna give him the benefit of the doubt). First off, Bobby needs to up his OBP over .300 - that much is sure. He doesn't need to become Jack Cust up there, but if he got another 600 at-bats like he did last season, all he would need to do is reach base 10 more times over the course of the entire season to get to a .315 OBP (8 more walks and 2 bean balls would do the trick). That's still quite abysmal, but actually workable.
As far as slugging percentage goes, the situation gets a bit murkier. Croz has been hitting more and more fly balls ever since his break-through 2005 campaign. Unfortunately, what has doomed his power numbers is that while the overall number of fly balls he hits has increased over time, the percentage of those fly balls that turn into homeruns has dropped dramatically ever year of his career, from a high of 14.3% in his ROY 2004 season (22 homers) to a low in 2008 with a putrid 4.2% (7 homers). Obviously, that trend needs to stop immediately and I think it will.
Crosby led the A's team in doubles last season by a wide margin with 39 total. That shows me that his "raw" power is still present. Here's where the McGwire tutelage may pay off: if Crosby can tweak his mechanics just a little bit and get a bit more loft on his swing courtesy of Big Mac or Holliday or whomever, he should be able to lift some of his deep flyballs into homeruns. How many more you ask? Well, he'll never hit 22 homers again in a season, I'm pretty sure of that. But he should be able to get back into the low double-digits, which some projection systems even expect him to do next season (Bill James predicts 12, MARCEL predicts 10). I'll take the conservative figure and say he hits 10 next season, 3 more than last season.
So all in all, if everything else about Crosby's dismal 2008 season remains the exact same except: he draws 8 more walks total over the entire season, hits 3 more homers and gets hit by two pitches you are looking at a .692 OPS player; and with a little luck thrown into the mix (and if there's anyone out there with more positive karma than Crosby, then let me know) he could even sniff up to .700 OPS. Combine that together with solid if not slightly above-average defense and about 10 steals and you're looking at a fairly acceptable 9-hole hitter.
Of course, even if the A's knew for certain that Crosby would follow these exact instructions and post the exact numbers I threw out there next season, they'd still probably be taking a hard look at Orlando Cabrera right now. And I know that even a .700 OPS would hardly earn Crosby any reprieve from his detractors here at AN. But at the very least, I'm hoping this all happens, just so the much-harangued guy can salvage some modicum of respectability in a career that was once so promising...
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he's been working with mcguire and holliday this offseason.
ill bet he hits .280 with 15hr and 60rbis
If you had a lineup of 9 Jack Custs who hit(Cust career average) .239 AVG, .382 OBP, and .475 SLG, then your team would score 6.12 runs per game-totalling to 991runs a season.The 08 rangers lead the majors in runs score with 901.
by 9Custs on Jan 25, 2009 10:02 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
that's a hefty prediction
But I bet he does show improvement thanks to Mac 1.5 and 60 sounds good not 280 though. I really hope he does well I know we’re all fans after that rookie season so it can happen again. Good luck Bobby.
by T-Money on Jan 25, 2009 12:18 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
how much are you willing to bet?
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 25, 2009 12:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Can I get in on this bet?
I could use some spare cash.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 12:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
3 bucks?
If you had a lineup of 9 Jack Custs who hit(Cust career average) .239 AVG, .382 OBP, and .475 SLG, then your team would score 6.12 runs per game-totalling to 991runs a season.The 08 rangers lead the majors in runs score with 901.
by 9Custs on Jan 25, 2009 12:31 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know.
Does Travis have any siblings?
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jan 25, 2009 1:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
that's my fantasy
"True fact: In a global thermonuclear war, the only human who would survive would be David Eckstein" -PT
by travdog6 on Jan 25, 2009 1:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Can I bet $10?
"You know, a long time ago being crazy meant something. Nowadays everybody's crazy."
-Charles Manson
by kaweahkaweah on Jan 25, 2009 8:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
You can bet $100 if you want
Nobody pays out anyway.
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 Jan 25, 2009 8:12 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Is that what she(ep) said?
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jan 25, 2009 9:21 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
FoolshGame is a she?
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 10:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
how'd you know?
my icon must’ve given it away. Your powers of deduction are astound.
Clowns to the left of me... Jokers to the right...
by FoolshGame22 on Jan 25, 2009 11:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It astounds me that people still don't spell McGwire correctly.
by mikev on Jan 25, 2009 2:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
yet they belive he can make crosby not suck
A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05
by xbhaskarx on Jan 25, 2009 2:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
jerry mcguire?
"I'm on hold for now"- Bobby Crosby
by DyeLongJustice on Jan 25, 2009 2:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If you're really astounded ...
… I’d have to put it down to the triumph of wishful thinking over experience. Poeple mispell alot.
by bA'sian on Jan 26, 2009 1:16 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Sure -- but it's not as if McGwire is an uncommon name on an A's blog.
Honestly — one of the biggest names the team has had over the last 25 years?
by mikev on Jan 26, 2009 8:18 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
What about Billy Bean?
He’s always mentioned around here.
Say something funny.
by muffinpryde on Jan 26, 2009 12:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That's Ricky's fault
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 Jan 26, 2009 7:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Since Beane Came Along...
Has there ever been a case of a player who has been this deep in Beane’s doghouse who hasn’t been traded or released?
This may be the first time it plays out differently, but I cannot see Bobby Crosby on the A’s when the season opens.
by richwol1 on Jan 25, 2009 10:16 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
You're right, looking at the pursuit of Furcal
But since they came up with zero for shortstops outside of the team, this time it may be different.
Officially awaiting the 2009 season.
by One won lost won on Jan 25, 2009 12:14 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe
…but I doubt it. The A’s publicly humiliated Crosby by announcing he’d been put on waivers, a fairly common quiet occurrence. It pays to keep him around because the A’s don’t want to look desperate in making any deal - they always have Crosby as a fall-back. But I think that by the time the season rolls around, he’ll be gone and a replacement of some sort will be in place.
by richwol1 on Jan 25, 2009 12:17 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
They didn't "announce" it
It was leaked. I personally suspect that someone in Oakland probably did that, but keep in mind that every other team sees the waiver list too. If someone was trying to get him for a pittance, leaking that he’s on waivers and then declining to claim him might be a good strategy.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 12:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
but if that's the reason, why wouldn't teams leak that info more often?
and if they are going to do it, why do it for bobby crosby?
(i also don’t think the a’s leaked it to humiliate crosby, that’s ridiculous)
A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05
by xbhaskarx on Jan 25, 2009 2:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Waivers get leaked all the time
especially during the August period when players can only be traded by clearing them.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 3:04 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
There is no one else.
The problem is, if you trade Crosby right now, who else do the A’s have to take his place. Pennington and Petite have yet to prove they are anything more then replacement level, and prospects like Cardenas are at least a year away.
I think if the A’s had a passable replacement at shortstop Crosby would be gone already, but since the team is trying to compete this year, likely with a small margin for error, Beane can afford to make the team worse by carelessly throwing away a player without a good replacement lined up.
Sometimes life will strike you out on a curve ball and the only choice you have is to flip off the umpire and walk to first base anyway.
by Threepwood XX on Jan 25, 2009 12:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm having trouble seeing him on the team in 2009 as well.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Jan 25, 2009 1:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I hope you're right
A .700 OPS doesn’t seem like an outrageous figure to hope for, even for Crosby. As bad as it looks, in the AL that figure would have been good for 5th out of 8 shortstops that qualified for the batting title last year (and right at the median for that group).
by JLeverenz on Jan 25, 2009 10:33 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
I, for one,
have been careful not to dole out anti-Crosby comments. I have no illusions that he is going to improve drastically or even stay healthy, nor does my lack of Crosby-bashing have to do with his eyes, or any other parts of his body.
I get as frustrated with Crosby as anyone else, but he has become such an easy target here that it’s become passe to toss him under the bus at every opportunity.
The fact that he is working with someone of McGwire’s stature at least tells me that is serious about improving his game. One thing he hasn’t demonstrated very often is a bad attitude (not to suggest that he should be free of any critiquing simply because, just saying it could be worse).
Nice post, Taj. Refreshing, too. Here’s hoping for those eight extra walks, two HBP’s, and three dingers. More importantly, here’s hoping he reaches the plate 600 times.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Jan 25, 2009 10:39 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
I agree
I am hoping that the time spent with McGuire and Holliday will really help Crosby. I think that because of his injuries he has been trying to hard. I would really like to see him come out in 2009 and as 9Custs said above, hit .280 with 15hr and 60 rbis. Also, I really don’t want to see Cabrera in the lineup. He is worth that much more than Crosby was last year.. One thing about Crosby is that he and Ellis make a good double play combo.
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"
by Eastbayjim on Jan 25, 2009 11:11 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
McGwire
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jan 25, 2009 1:07 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Ray: "How fun is it to be up here playing in the Big Leagues?"
Gio: "It's *SUPER* fun!!!"
by Poppy on Jan 25, 2009 3:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Hans Gruber?
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 26, 2009 11:12 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
"It's like déjà vu all over again." -yogi berra
by Cheezombie on Jan 26, 2009 1:14 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Hasn't demonstrated a bad attitude?
The reason why this working-with-McGwire thing is so out of the ordinary is that until now, he has basically rejected any suggestions that he adjust his hitting approach out of hand. His comments on his own play have been delusional— he’s essentially blamed every problem he’s ever had on injury and refused to admit the possibility that something he’s doing is responsible for it.
I’d call him “pigheaded”, but that might be insulting the pigs.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 12:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, Beane has been making similar comments
That is, blaming injuries for Crosby’s lack of hitting. But I wouldn’t call him pigheaded. Maybe just, you know, cautiously optimistic that a guy who saw sporadic play over 3 seasons might eventually be able to put it together with consistent good health.
Not that that turned out to be the case or anything.
Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.
by Joey C. on Jan 25, 2009 2:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
GMs don't usually badmouth their own players
obviously the a’s held out hope for too long that he would amount to something, but on the other hand what’s beane supposed to publicly say about crosby?
A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05
by xbhaskarx on Jan 25, 2009 2:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Any number of things, really
He’s not likely to say anything negative, but he doesn’t necessarily have to endorse Crosby’s apparent view of the situation. Something as noncommittal as “he’ll put it together” or “Bobby is a professional and (insert cliched pleasantry here)” would suffice. But my feeling is that both Crosby and Beane truly believed what they were saying regarding the injuries retarding Bobby’s progress. Which leads me to say it’s a little harsh to call the poor bastard “pigheaded.”
Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.
by Joey C. on Jan 25, 2009 5:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
There's a huge difference between accepting your own failures
and blaming someone else for theirs, especially when “someone else” is a subordinate.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 3:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, alright
It just seems like you’re personally offended by somebody I’m assuming you don’t know personally. I’m a little confused as to why.
Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.
by Joey C. on Jan 25, 2009 5:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not "personally offended" by him
I just think he’s an awful player and am annoyed by the fact that he is a member of my favorite team.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 5:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Fair enough
Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.
by Joey C. on Jan 25, 2009 6:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm the one personally offended by Bobby Crosby
The monster at the end of this blog.
by grover on Jan 25, 2009 6:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
When you're relying on HBPs to post
“acceptably not so horrible” numbers, you’re either Jason Kendall or a desperate man. I agree about the league average defense, though. And if Croz does finally come around as a hitter – say he actually hits .250/.320/.400 or something – does that make the Holliday trade better?
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 Jan 25, 2009 10:55 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
It's bound to happen (more HBP) if he adjusts so he's in the same hemishpere as the plate.
Of course, that will probably mean 4–6 weeks out with a broken hand on the 2nd HBP, so it’ll all even out.
The 2009 A's draft pick... getting higher every game.
by rebus on Jan 25, 2009 2:54 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
hmmm
Of course, that will probably mean 4–6 weeks out with a broken hand on the 2nd HBP, so it’ll all even out.
you say that almost like it’s a bad thing…
"True fact: In a global thermonuclear war, the only human who would survive would be David Eckstein" -PT
by travdog6 on Jan 25, 2009 3:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
the last part wasnt supposed to be blocked
im still learning the power of the mysterious preview button
"True fact: In a global thermonuclear war, the only human who would survive would be David Eckstein" -PT
by travdog6 on Jan 25, 2009 3:49 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I, like richwolf1, have serious doubts...
that Crosby will be on this team come opening day. I think Beane has already made up his mind to get rid of him and he will, one way or another.
That said, if he is on the team, I think he’ll have a better season than Taj projects… a much better season, in fact. Just a gut feeling. Nothing to back it up.
That is all.
Clowns to the left of me... Jokers to the right...
by FoolshGame22 on Jan 25, 2009 10:56 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Gut feelings are so gritty.
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 Jan 25, 2009 11:21 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
well, Byrnes did hang on with the team...
longer than I expected, so I suppose Crosby could play out the same way.
Clowns to the left of me... Jokers to the right...
by FoolshGame22 on Jan 25, 2009 11:32 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i could see Crosby on the opening day roster
only to be released/traded a few weeks later, depending on how other teams SS position plays out (meaning someone gets injured, etc.). Most teams are set at SS, so it’s not like there is a huge market out there for which Beane can work with. I’m sure that any team who wants him, right now, will wait until he is outright released. Of course, during the season, things can change, and maybe that is what Beane is waiting for.
"I'm on hold for now"- Bobby Crosby
by DyeLongJustice on Jan 25, 2009 1:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
According to PECOTA*...
If Crosby can manage to simply lay off 1 in 5 low and away sliders, a line of .260/.335/.415 should be a lock.
*Performance Evaluations Conceived Out of Thin Air
by HigherPie on Jan 25, 2009 12:08 PM PST reply actions 8 recs
that's awesome higherpie
"If you hit .440 with 20 bombs, you don't have to do s---. You don't have to bring a glove to practice, just hit and leave whenever you want. You can bring a 40 and smoke a cigarette and call me from the parking lot asking me what time the game is, and I'll tell you. You can even say 'F--- you, Steve!' Actually, don't say that, that wouldn't be very nice." -Steve Friend, Head Coach, Chabot College Gladiators Baseball
by flipgatey3 on Jan 25, 2009 12:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
that was awesome
rec’d
"True fact: In a global thermonuclear war, the only human who would survive would be David Eckstein" -PT
by travdog6 on Jan 25, 2009 1:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
about those doubles ...
… anyone have the time to go through fangraphs/retrosheet/etc. and tabulate just how many of those were wormburners down either foul line? My feeling is that Crosby has essentially zero “power” right now.
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 25, 2009 12:27 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
From looking at his hit chart at MLB.com
2 down the right field line
8 down the left field line
4 to deep right center or deep left center
8 to deep left
For whatever reason, the page is not allowing me to view his road output, so all I’ve got is his home numbers. I’m kind of shocked to see 8 doubles to deep left field. That suggests 2 things— 1. he can’t hit the ball out even when he pulls it down the line, and 2. the left fielder is playing him ridiculously shallow. This is probably a bad strategy, but it is indicative of the utter lack of respect other teams have for his hitting abilities.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 12:52 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
My eyeball-memorygraph says
Crosby’s doubles to left and to the alleys were generally ripped one-hoppers to the wall, i.e., legitimate drives. It’s all the rest of his ABs that were the problem.
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 Jan 25, 2009 4:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Still no reason to believe that those doubles will become home runs
I’d say they’re considerably more likely to become outs, particularly if other teams realign their outfield defense to adjust to his hit patterns.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 4:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh great - Crosby's going to get worse!
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 Jan 25, 2009 4:29 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
There's a dark cloud for every silver lining...
The monster at the end of this blog.
by grover on Jan 25, 2009 4:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously, though, I don't see it that way -
You can’t defense one-hoppers to the wall that are ripped into the gap. Those particular balls were ones Crosby hit 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 Jan 25, 2009 4:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I mean, I don't know
It might be that teams are actually playing him correctly, and the doubles into the corner are the price they pay to prevent a larger number of singles and doubles to the gap. In which case, we’d predict that they’d stay about the same.
It’s certainly not reason for optimism, though. Of course, reasons for optimism tend to be few and far between when you’re coming off a healthy-yet-horrible season at age 29.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 4:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
unless you've contracted the dreaded
Bonds-itis…then you act as a fine wine, so to speak, because, well, aging makes you better.
"I'm on hold for now"- Bobby Crosby
by DyeLongJustice on Jan 25, 2009 8:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Bonds Schmonds -
Russ Springer, baby!
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 Jan 25, 2009 8:49 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Interesting take on Crosby, Taj.
My feeling about Crosby is that he still has that raw talent locked away in there, somewhere. Hitting 39 doubles last year was encouraging but swinging at balls a foot off the plate continue to be his biggest problem. I agree that if his mechanics were fixed he would be able to generate more of his natural power.
I mean if you look at his frame he is built like a football player and is a strong guy. I think most of his downfall is the result of poor mental focus and lack of adjustments at the plate. I really hope working with Matt Holliday and Big Mac pay off for him cuz I think if he were to have any improvement this year, it’s possible that he could prove to be a wildcard for the A’s.
Is there anyone else that thinks that maybe Billy Bean’s plan all along was to motivate Bobby Crosby into improving himself to the point of, “Oh look, we could sign Furcal or Cabrera, or trade for Miggy, or put you on waivers Bobby!”, -I better get my shit together and show everybody I’m not a bust.??
"God made Majnun love Layla so much that just her dog would cause confusion in him."
The Many Wines-Rumi
by mrod on Jan 25, 2009 12:36 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Is it just me...
…or does it seem like Crosby sets up waaaaaaaaaaaay off the plate and the ball doesn’t have to be a foot outside for him to swing badly but that from where he sets up a ball over the middle SEEMS like it is a foot outside?
His bad swings remind me a lot of Terrence Long and I loathed Long’s performance after he signed his contract.
by Slappyfrog on Jan 25, 2009 1:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well Crosby did set up closer to the plate for awhile
but then reverted back to his same ol’.
T-Bone never did it for me. I always thought he sucked.
"God made Majnun love Layla so much that just her dog would cause confusion in him."
The Many Wines-Rumi
by mrod on Jan 25, 2009 1:22 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
you mean he's contracted Idontwanttogethurtattheplate-itis?
I saw the same out of Chavez when his injury prone era started.
It seems like these guys get so terrified that they will break a hand or somethin at the plate that they figure by setting up farther from the plate they won’t get hurt…
by stranahanahan on Jan 25, 2009 8:55 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
In Chavez' case
That’s justified since his hand was broken on a HBP by, if I’m remembering correctly, Damso Marte in ’04 I believe.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jan 26, 2009 12:15 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Hasn't 'Bones' broken his hand at the plate too?
by OldhamA on Jan 26, 2009 1:56 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
and his ribs.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jan 26, 2009 3:26 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure about the hitting mechanics theory
I don’t think Crosby’s problem can be solved simply by putting in more loft. Without improvement in pitch recognition, I can’t even begin to imagine how bad his new upper cut swing will look on a low and outside slide.
by asfansince1989 on Jan 25, 2009 12:46 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
agreed
PT always harps on the supposition that Crosby simply makes bad contact, but I agree with you — I think the root is that Crosby has awful pitch recognition, and that leads him to make poor contact most of the time, but occasionally (when he guesses right) to make good contact.
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 26, 2009 11:19 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
How do you explain his, at worst, fringe-average plate discipline then?
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 26, 2009 5:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
good question
I dunno — maybe it’s the one bit of advice from the coaches/FO that he actually implements?
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 27, 2009 10:44 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
you are probably right
so Crosby’s problem is mroe about making contact than pitch recognition. But I still have an issue with tweaking the mechanics to get more loft. Correct me if I’m wrong, but don’t they always teach that level swing gives you a bigger window to make contact? Having an upper cut will make it even more difficult for Crosby to make contact, or is it possible that the upper cut may increase his chance of good contact, and the expense of also more swing and misses. So he’ll be more like Cust? Can we call him Crusby?
by asfansince1989 on Jan 27, 2009 1:43 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, speaking personally, I think he needs to do the opposite
and embrace his ground ball tendencies. I’d rather see him hit .260/.320/.350 than .210/.270/.370.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 27, 2009 6:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
The door can't hit him in the ass soon enough to suit me
Taj, I’m quite certain you had no hope of this plea for Crosby to affect the way I feel about the player. I think you’re coming from a fair place to argue in defense of Crosby but I object to the way you do so, especially when talking about Crosby’s defensive skills.
Combine that together with solid if not slightly above-average defense
You are taking average defense as a given and you’re basing that in large part on a UZR/150 = 0 in 2008 (meaning he hit the baseline for average play at SS). OK, but RZR has him at .813 (Ave = .835) and Plus/Minus has him at -13 last year. I haven’t seen any pro scouting reports from the 2008 season and the 30-odd fan reports at Tangotiger are hardly conclusive.
I think the vast majority of AN agrees that Crosby’s bat is going to suck in 2009… although what degree of suckitude is open to debate. The key to your plea is Crosby’s defense and you have done nothing to defend the position that Bobby will provide even average defense at SS. If the A’s are looking at weak offense and bad defense at SS with Crosby in 2009 then it makes the sacrifice of a 2nd round pick for O-Cab that much more acceptable.
The monster at the end of this blog.
by grover on Jan 25, 2009 1:10 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Crosby's 2009
I’m seeing the “vast majority of AN” agree Crosby’s bat is going to suck in 2009, and a couple of guys named Holliday and McGuire are saying, he looks terrific. Which opinion should one believe? Me, I’m inclined to check the expertise of the one’s voicing their views. Sorry, majority of AN. You lose.
I’ve been a baseball fan for over 60 years. One of the pleasures of being a fan is that we can dream about just how good our players and team are going to be in the next season. That’s what fans do! I don’t think I’ve ever heard as much negativism on a player (maybe other than Bonds) as I’ve seen about Crosby on AN this off season. Are you guys fans or nay sayers?
Some of the stuff almost defies logic. Example. Does Bobby Crosby have any power? Dah! He hit 22 home runs his rookie year. Yes, he has power. He hit 39 doubles (leading the team) last year. Yes, he has power. Has he lived up to his promise? No, he hasn’t. Is it possible for him to be better as a hitter, lots better? Of course. And if you don’t believe your logic, try listening to Matt Holliday.
Come on guys, lets hope that all of our players have career years next year! Will they? Of course not. Is it possible? There have been some pretty amazing stories about what’s happened in baseball history. We’ve even seen some of them, like a 20 game winning streak, etc. etc.
Here’s to a great 2009! Let’s go A’s!!!!
by rcodd on Jan 25, 2009 3:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I like your enthusiasm.
Here on AN people like to discuss players using numbers and personal observations too. If people are down on a player like Crosby then it’s usually for a very valid reason. Everyone who is a fan shares your hope that this year Crosby has an outstanding , amazing season(unless he’s traded to another team). We hope that for all of the players. We all would love to see our A’s in the playoffs…but why quench the guys who want to talk about his performance based on his PAST lack of performance? You can still be an enthusiastic fan and yet critical of a non-performing player. This isn’t a pep rally but a blog meant for discussion.
by IM4Oakgal on Jan 25, 2009 3:43 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
in those 60 years have you ever read a sports page in february / march?
85% of all baseball players are going to be considerably better this year because of new workout regimens, diets, fixing flaws in their game, etc.
fuck, last year crosby was going to be better because he got like a batting cage installed in his house or something.
A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05
by xbhaskarx on Jan 25, 2009 4:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe he was better than he'd otherwise have been
And that’s my scary thought for the day.
"There's never enough time to do all the nothing you want" -Bill Watterson
by nevermoor on Jan 25, 2009 7:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
what do offseason reports say about the other 15%?
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 26, 2009 11:20 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
His name is McGwire, not McGuire
What Mark McGwire (again, notice the spelling) and Matt Holliday are saying is that Crosby looks great in offseason work-outs… in batting practice, if you will.
Would you agree with me that Crosby probably faces a higher caliber of pitcher during an actual baseball game then he does during batting practice? Hell, Bobby may be hitting against a pitching machine right now for all we know and I seriously doubt that MLB is going to change the rules and allow Crosby to face a non-human pitcher during the game. I could be wrong on this.
In 2004 Crosby hit 22 HR in 545 at bats. He has hit 33 HR in 1596 at bats since his rookie year. That is a major drop off in HR power production over the last 4 years any way you spin it.
In 2004 Crosby slugged .426. In the 1596 at bats since then he has slugged .367. That too represents a major drop off in his power production.
I remain a Mark McGwire fan. If I had a chance I’d vote for him to go to the HOF. Him saying that Crosby looks good in batting practice does not overcome 4 years of putrid hitting in actual game situations. I’m sure after 60 years of baseball fandom you’ve seen at least one batter look like an All-Star in the cage and a wimp with a real pitcher on the mound. And if you don’t believe that logic, try listening to what Billy Beane was saying when he placed Crosby on outright waivers and pursued first Rafeal Furcal and now Orlando Cabrera in free agency.
The monster at the end of this blog.
by grover on Jan 25, 2009 4:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I will give this and only this credence:
Crosby would likely benefit from a “spread stance” that shortened his swing by creating less movement overall. It’s a good approach for him to take and McGwire is a good person to help Crosby with that approach.
That being said, it won’t help him gauge a slider and it won’t get him closer to home plate, nor will it make Crosby better at adjusting to changing ways of getting him out. In other words, Crosby needs about 7 kinds of help, of which he’s getting 1.
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 Jan 25, 2009 4:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
At this point, I think he'd benefit from learning to hit left-handed
If you just stick to the numbers from Fangraphs, last year Crosby was just this side of being a replacement level player before you factor in positional bonus. If you use different defensive numbers then what Fangraphs provides for 2008 (Plus/Minus for example) then Crosby becomes a below-replacement level player even after adjusting for a position bonus!
In other words, I see Taj’s argument defending Crosby’s 2008 performance as the best possible spin for projecting next season. I think the reality is worse than Taj is saying and that the amount of improvement needed before Crosby can be considered useful requires a lot more than a change in batting stance. Pardon my language, but at some point you’ve got to accept that you’re polishing monkey poo.
The monster at the end of this blog.
by grover on Jan 25, 2009 5:04 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd like to see
someone come up with the name MarkMcGuire
"To this day and dating back 25 years, before every game he plays, Henderson stands completely naked in front of a full length locker room mirror and says, "Ricky’s the best," for several minutes."
by VORP is too nerdy on Jan 25, 2009 8:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jan 25, 2009 5:38 PM PST up reply actions 6 recs
+1 for enthusiasm
There is something to be said about simply watching games and enjoying them for what they are (hint: starts with a g, ends with an e, and the middle letters are usually a period of time in which a person wakes up to go to work).
While baseball IS my favorite sport because it’s the only one where situations are isolated enough that numbers can be used to better approximate a players performance (example: TDs or rushing yards in football are often used to judge a runningback, but that has just as much to do with the O-Line and the passing game as it does with the RB), it still can get overwhelming to use that as the sole basis of why I pay attention to the game.
That aside, of course McGwire and Holliday are saying good things about Crosby; they’re his teammates! Unless these aforementioned two are complete A-Holes, they are NOT going to be throwing Crosby under the bus during the winter (unless BoCro stole there wallet, TP’d their house, or set-for-repeat This Is The Song That Never Ends on their home entertainment system). Normally, you shouldn’t judge any of your team’s players based on what their teammates are saying (unless it’s negative, then you know something is up). Instead, you should probably listen to other team’s scouts, writers, and (gasp) stats as predictors of future success. I, for one, would LOVE to see Crosby hit another 22 HRs, but I have to be realistic. At this point in time, it’s looking more likely that I swim across the atlantic ocean with Giambi’s golden man thong than Crosby going for 20+ HR.
"I'm on hold for now"- Bobby Crosby
by DyeLongJustice on Jan 25, 2009 8:56 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t typically watch games and enjoy them for them being gohmygodshitIshould’vebeenoutthedooralreadyfifteenminutesagoes, but maybe that’s just me.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 11:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
"If the A’s are looking at weak offense and bad defense at SS with Crosby in 2009 then it makes the sacrifice of a 2nd round pick for O-Cab that much more acceptable."
But that still doesn’t take into account what the A’s would do with Crosby and his 5.25 million dollar contract.
Are you anticipating that the A’s would just dump Crosby and eat his salary, or sign Cabrera with the two of them battling for the starting SS gig in ST? Or do you see a trade developing?
Just curious…..
"God made Majnun love Layla so much that just her dog would cause confusion in him."
The Many Wines-Rumi
by mrod on Jan 25, 2009 1:19 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Bench him, cut him, trade him, whatever
As a charter member of the Cesar Izturis to Oakland campaign I am willing to accept weak offense from SS if the guy is a whiz with the glove because the numbers of runs he saves with the glove compensates for the runs lost when he bats.
The Bobby Crosby that Taj is defending is a similar player to what I’d accept IF the case can be made that Crosby will actually save runs with his glove. If Crosby offers nothing more than replacement level offense and his glove costs to A’s runs in the field then it would be foolish and pig-headed to let Crosby play just because he’s under contract for $5.25 million. There is almost nothing the A’s can do to get that cash back but there is no reason to cost the team wins by playing a SS with negative value.
The monster at the end of this blog.
by grover on Jan 25, 2009 1:36 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I recommend this post.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Jan 25, 2009 1:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Why do you personally dislike Orlando Cabrera? Do you know him?
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Jan 25, 2009 1:50 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
He was a locker-room distraction in Chicago last year, FWIW
Batting 4th for the 2014 San Jose A's: 26-year-old RF Justin Upton, in the 1st season of a nine year, $250M deal.
by notsellingjeans on Jan 25, 2009 2:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
As was Frank Thomas in 2005
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 Jan 25, 2009 4:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
as was Frank Thomas in Toronto in 2008
Frank was on his best behavior with us because we were the only team that gave him a chance, literally. And he was playing for minimum wage, so he could’ve been waived at the drop of a hat.
Whomever signs O Cab won’t have that type of flexibility.
Batting 4th for the 2014 San Jose A's: 26-year-old RF Justin Upton, in the 1st season of a nine year, $250M deal.
by notsellingjeans on Jan 25, 2009 6:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Except
that nobody, apparently, wants O-Cab either. And whoever signs him will more than likely sign him to a small contract both in terms of years and dollars.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jan 25, 2009 7:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly - Cabrera is even more desperate than Oakland is
If that’s possible.
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 Jan 25, 2009 8:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It's scary
The thought of employing Crosby if you’re the A’s vs. the thought of unemployment if you’re Cabrera. Ding ding ding!
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jan 26, 2009 12:16 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
plus, it didn't hurt that he was hitting amazingly well with us
i’d have to think that part of his locker room-team chemistry-dismantilations (yes, i made that up) was because of his struggles at the plate. when you are sucking, it tends to bring your mood down. although, bobby crosby must be immune to such mortal feelings.
"I'm on hold for now"- Bobby Crosby
by DyeLongJustice on Jan 25, 2009 8:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Just to give you all an idea
of the SS situation in the MLB
Last year Bobby Crosby was the 9th SS in the majors in RBIs
Clear its radiance shine...
by ATarHeel on Jan 25, 2009 3:39 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
where did he rank in LOL-BIs?
A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05
by xbhaskarx on Jan 25, 2009 4:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Im just saying, people are overreacting
with all this Crosby talk, yes, he’s not very good, but putting into perspective the rest of the mayors situation in SS we’re not as bad as we think.
Plus, with Holliday, Giambi and Chavez he can only get better.
Clear its radiance shine...
by ATarHeel on Jan 25, 2009 4:10 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
People are not overreacting, ATarHeel
The number of RBI Crosby had does not change the fact that he was a terrible offensive player. He generally did not reach base (less than 30% of the time) and his OPS was wretched. And I wouldn’t expect Holliday, Giambi, and Chavez to make Crosby better, I would just expect them to help offset Crosby’s shortcomings.
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 Jan 25, 2009 4:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
RBI's for Crosby
are a signal of just how well hitters in front of BoCro must have hit. The fact that they could get on base enough that the few times BoCro did come through wasn’t for naught, should not be understating considering everyone else’s offense shortcomings last year.
"I'm on hold for now"- Bobby Crosby
by DyeLongJustice on Jan 25, 2009 9:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
RBIs as a way to prove a point
is just terrible to your argument.
Let’s think of how many times Crosby was given a chance to hit 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th in the lineup. He was put into positions in the batting order where he should have driven in more runs. Look at most other SS in the bigs. You’ve got guys like Hanley hitting leadoff, so of course they’re not going to drive in many runs, and then guys like Lugo, etc. who are put in the 7th, 8th, 9th spots in the order.
by stranahanahan on Jan 25, 2009 9:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think we need to give him another chance...
He hasn’t really ever had hitters around him to take the pressure off, and Macha made the dumbest blunder when he inserted him in the 3-hole and left him there. Besides, he and Woody at second make a good combo and cover the middle well.
by Flamethrower on Jan 25, 2009 4:20 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
AMEN
and Macha made the dumbest blunder when he inserted him in the 3-hole and left him there.
+1
Clear its radiance shine...
by ATarHeel on Jan 25, 2009 4:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
if crosby’s not batting third how is he going to get those RBIs?
A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05
by xbhaskarx on Jan 25, 2009 4:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He got RBIs with last years offense
so batting 9th in 09 will give him the same RBI opportunities as hitting 3rd last year
Clear its radiance shine...
by ATarHeel on Jan 25, 2009 4:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Just kidding
but still, I was just showing how bad MLB Shortstops are right now
Clear its radiance shine...
by ATarHeel on Jan 25, 2009 4:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Saying Mark Ellis and Bobby Crosby make a good DP combo
is like saying that LeBron James and me make a good backcourt.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 4:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Or that the Canseco twins had a lot of power
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 Jan 25, 2009 4:41 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Or that Barry and Bobby Bonds are the best father/son ever.
"There's never enough time to do all the nothing you want" -Bill Watterson
by nevermoor on Jan 25, 2009 7:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
LeBron James and I.
"I switched Cabraras when your back was turned."
by Elvez on Jan 25, 2009 8:22 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, I think the correct phrasing is:
LeBron James and me makes a good backcourt.
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 25, 2009 11:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I was just having fun, but I'm pretty sure
you can check it by taking out the “LeBron James” and pretend that you’re only talking about yourself and see which one works: “LeBron James and me make a good backcourt” or, “LeBron James and I make a good backcourt”. I’m just as likely wrong about this. Like I said, I was just being kinda snarky.
"I switched Cabraras when your back was turned."
by Elvez on Jan 26, 2009 7:46 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
who is this Lebron James character, anyway? I’ve never heard of the chap. Perhaps he is some king from hither, thither, yester and yonderyore? Anyway you slice it, though, PT must be an awesome PG.
"I'm on hold for now"- Bobby Crosby
by DyeLongJustice on Jan 25, 2009 9:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
ahhhh
damn you italics. go back to italy.
"I'm on hold for now"- Bobby Crosby
by DyeLongJustice on Jan 25, 2009 9:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Inserting in the 3-hole
Easy blunder to make.
by oblique on Jan 25, 2009 5:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I had number 3 once.
Took me 3 hours to get it out.
au contra ire
by JediLeroy on Jan 25, 2009 9:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't believe that for a second
Chavez doesn’t have that kind of bat control.
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 26, 2009 11:26 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh my golly...
Can you remember some of the pathetic shortstops we have had in the past? The early 80’s and Donnie Hill. Or Mr. Tuxedo playing 2nd, and how he would never dive for a ball and get his uni dirty? I’m sorry, but Crosby is better than some of the shortstops we have had. We just have to survive now without the steroid-enhanced players like we used to have in the infield: Tejada, Tony Phillips, McGuire, etc.
by Flamethrower on Jan 25, 2009 4:46 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
The A's never had McGuire on the infield
They did, however, have Keith Drumright, Rob Picciolo, Chicken Stanley, and Shooty Babbitt up the middle.
I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal
by Nico on Jan 25, 2009 4:51 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
{snerk}
Shooty Babbitt up the middle
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 26, 2009 11:27 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
McGwire
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Jan 25, 2009 5:40 PM PST up reply actions 4 recs
I'd had forgotten some of them
Wow, that is a scary infield indeed.
by Flamethrower on Jan 25, 2009 5:06 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
read the main post about a half hour ago
and the only the word besides Crosby I can remember is “dismal”.
alaska A residing in colorado.
by ak_A on Jan 25, 2009 5:54 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
started drinking about an hour ago
and the only word I can remember is
What was I saying?
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 Jan 25, 2009 8:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Comments from McGwire, Holliday
While the comments from McGwire and Holliday sound nice, I find it hard to believe that if anyone asked them for a public comment they wouldn’t say what they’re quoted as saying. Would a hitting instructor and a teammate get quoted in the newspaper saying, “Wow, he’s really making no progress at all. I can’t believe Crosby has trouble hitting the ball even in the batting cage….and sometimes even off a tee! I had heard he wasn’t a good hitter but now that I’ve seen him for myself I’d really have to agree. Is he really on a Major League roster?”
by SA on Jan 25, 2009 8:50 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Or, "I've watched him swing all week and...
he really has great hair."
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 Jan 25, 2009 8:51 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I like your veiled optimism
So much on this site is so negative. BC did try to stand closer to the plate once, and received a broken hand for his effort. I felt sorry for him that day. I for one have not completely lost faith in him, although like most I have been disappointed. I think perhaps he was given the gold key to the executive crapper a bit too soon, and maybe this offseason will be a wakeup call to perform again. Maybe I’m just dreaming.
by somebodyelse on Jan 25, 2009 8:54 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps I should have said
“cautious optimism”
by somebodyelse on Jan 25, 2009 9:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I've always wanted to see what the executive crapper looked like.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Jan 25, 2009 10:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Is it better or worse than the prefects' bathroom?
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 26, 2009 12:27 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Or at least as nice but hopefully it will not house an entrance the a secert chamber
The nuts and bolts of gameplay are apocalyptic failures, but the awfulness doesn’t stop there. Managing games is utterly pointless. [Feb 2009, p.85]
by A'sfaninNC on Jan 26, 2009 8:05 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
isn't that where you get the dreaded Rear Admiral?
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 26, 2009 11:27 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
In charge of swabbing the poop deck?
"There's never enough time to do all the nothing you want" -Bill Watterson
by nevermoor on Jan 26, 2009 9:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And broken ribs
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Jan 26, 2009 12:17 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
new age? new wave?
Perhaps the power-happy days of the last ten years have clouded the light towards AN. We would be remiss to discard the 80+ years of history of building a baseball teams. Defense is an important skill for a team and a successful team has strong defense-sometimes compromising power- up the middle(C, SS, 2B, CF), and power in the corners, leading to a balanced 9man force.
As an employer, I wish the Oakland Athletics Baseball Company would, like it has with banning alcohol from the clubhouse, mandating white shoes, not discussing free-agents, require all hitters to wear a protective elbow guards when hitting. Chavy, crosby, et al, would have more confidence in standing closer to where they will be attempting to square-up baseballs. G led the league in HBPs last year and, without a doubt, wears one. I’ve seen success of this in football, when O-linemen must wear knee enforcers at practice and games.
by greenpaddedgloves on Jan 26, 2009 8:49 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
this is one long hot-stove season. not over yet.
alaska A residing in colorado.
by ak_A on Jan 26, 2009 5:37 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
We could always talk about foot...
{gets yanked away from computer by mikev}
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Jan 26, 2009 6:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
oh no, not foo....
don’t get me wrong, i am into the active and entertaining hot-stove stuff this season for sure. Even the endless Crosby iterations…..hopefully with Crosby this is like the exploding star before it fades and snuffs out…..over done with….traded away or a successful season.
alaska A residing in colorado.
by ak_A on Jan 26, 2009 7:30 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
{flings foo}
A B -3X = Swedish girls like chocolate @('.')@
by monkeyball on Jan 27, 2009 10:44 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
how many yards can you fling that?
if over 50, and on target primarily….call coach Tedford.
alaska A residing in colorado.
by ak_A on Jan 27, 2009 3:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
{executes coup, takes over NinersNation}
{flings Fooch}
Many years from now, when his name's recalled
Everyone will say, "He should have passed the ball"
-- Al Stewart, "Football Hero"
by PaulThomas on Jan 27, 2009 6:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
flings... coup
"There's never enough time to do all the nothing you want" -Bill Watterson
by nevermoor on Jan 27, 2009 7:30 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
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