The Cabrera For Ladendorf Trade: What's Not To Love?
by Nico on Aug 1, 2009 8:00 AM PDT
269 comments
OK, two things, obviously: The possibility that Ladendorf won't be any good, always a risk with prospects, and the fact that the 2009 A's just got a little worse for August and September. But folks...
I agree with the iglews of the world who say wins matter even if it's the difference between 75 wins and 79 wins and the playoff picture is not impacted. But I imagine even iglew -- and I'll let him speak for himself, just 'cause I'm a swell guy -- would agree that when you're rebuilding, sometimes you have to accept a couple of months where a downgrade might leave you a 73 win team instead of a 74 win team, so that the organization can get better overall. It's two months of Orlando Cabrera we're talking about, not two years of Brett Anderson.
The player the A's got was not only a 2nd round draft pick who is still only 21 and thus has plenty of upside, but he profiles as a SS (yum) and a speedster (leadoff yum), potentially filling two huge areas of need, and for good measure he even bats right-handed. The A's said that if Minnesota had not selected Ladendorf in the 2nd round, they were going to take him. The only knock I've really heard about Ladendorf's ability to stay at SS defensively is that he's "big" (he's listed at 6'0" and 210 pounds), but so was Cal Ripkin Jr., so is J.J. Hardy, and for that matter so is Bobby Crosby, who was a fine defensive SS for several years. What I haven't heard is that Ladendorf actually has trouble playing SS. I think this is a great pickup, as it directly addresses areas of need with someone with a lot of potential to be good. Maybe he'll be bad, but now the A's (assuming Grant Green signs) have added two potential shortstops to the pipeline, giving them a far better chance of ending up with one.
But perhaps most importantly of all, Orlando Cabrera was only under contract through 2009. Either the A's want him back in 2010 or they don't, and either Cabrera wishes to play for the A's in 2010 (as he has indicated, and has had plenty of time to assess) or there's another team, or contract offer, he prefers. The A's did not trade away the chance for Cabrera to play for Oakland in 2010 if that's what both sides want, not in any way, shape, or form. If Cabrera wants to play for the A's and the A's want Cabrera to play for them, then come 2010 Oakland will have both Cabrera and Ladendorf.
So other than Cabrera's presence at the end of a lost season, the A's have lost nothing and gained a lot. And by Spring Training, they could conceivably have their cake and eat it too. Billy Beane at his finest, I say.
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Wasn't the general consensus around here that Cabrera sucked.
For that matter, doesn’t Beane suck as well? Just sayin’…certainly there’s ‘something to love’ in the fact that the team gave a sucky player in Cabrera, right? And perhaps got another sucky SS to possibly suck in the present and in the future. Still, with has-Beane around, what is there to love about any of this?
by LowcountryJoe on Aug 1, 2009 8:11 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Cabrera doesn't suck
He got off to a very bad start this season, but it was way worse than any expectations based on his career numbers and Cabrera acknowledged it himself. He has bounced back strongly in the last couple of months and there is no reason to believe that, going forward for the rest of the season, he will be anything other than his usual self, which is an above average ML shortstop.
by colin on Aug 1, 2009 8:28 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Er, what?
This is Cabrera’s OPS, month-by-month:
April: .611
May: .553
June: .659
July: .900
Cabrera did not “bounce back” the last couple of months. He sucked in April, sucked worse in May, sucked a bit less in June and went on a hell of a run in July. Hitting for a .900 OPS is not “his usual self” either. He’s got a career OPS of .719.
Moreover, Cabrera’s “usual self” is not actually above average. Per Fangraphs, this is Cabrera over the last five years in runs above average:
2004: -20
2005: 9.7
2006: -2
2007: 8.8
2008: 2.9
For 2009 so far, he’s been 15.9 runs BELOW average at short. In the 5 years listed above, he was more valuable defensively than offensively in 4 of them. This year he’s 8 runs below average offensively and 7.9 runs below average defensively. Expecting him to get better in his age 35 season next year is ridiculous. Expecting the one good month to be more representative of the “usual” Cabrera we can expect going forward than the three terrible months that preceded it is ludicrous. The only question about Orlando Cabrera in the near future is whether he will suck or blow. (That’s enough Spaceballs jokes for one post…)
by Nate on Aug 1, 2009 8:59 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's not really ludicrous at all
feeling healthy, and confident.
He also showed up to camp 15 pounds overweight. Beane and others were publicly disappointed in that. How does 15 pounds overweight happen? Clearly, the guy took too long of a vacation last winter. That would have a negative impact on his defense and his offense during the first few months of the season.
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 Aug 1, 2009 9:12 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
damn, two paragraphs of that got cut off, sorry
The first part basically said that, from a scouting perspective, he was clearly “off” during the first few months. And during the past month, he has clearly been seeing the ball well, and has the high, flamboyant finish at the end of his swing that Cabrera has when he’s going well.
So when you’re projecting what he’ll do for the final two months – when he currently hitting the ball extremely well – I don’t think it’s ludicrous to say that he will be closer to the .900 OPS he’s had than to the three three months of the season, when he was clearly not, from a scouting perspective, looking good at the plate in the way he is now. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I feel like your post implies that those first three months of ‘09 represent Cabrera’s new true talent level…whereas I feel they were clearly well below it.
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 Aug 1, 2009 9:18 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's probably safe to say he'd be somewhere in the middle of those 2 numbers.
Is he a .900 OPS hitter? No.
Is he a .600 OPS hitter? No.
Is it fair to think he’ll probably be somewhere in the middle of that, around .750 OPS or so? I think so.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 9:29 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Since 2004 his OPS year by year:
689, 674, 738, 742, 705, 683
750? Youre on crack. He’ll be closer to 650 is more like it if you follow that downward trend he’s in.
by PL78 on Aug 1, 2009 11:29 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You could easily make that point without the crack comment
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Aug 1, 2009 11:45 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
True
Normally I don’t give a shit, but considering my mom is going to see my brother in rehab today, that’s a tad fucked up.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
apologies to all, it was a throwaway comment. not meant to directly disrespect anyone.
by PL78 on Aug 1, 2009 12:26 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
where's he at?
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Camp in santa cruz.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
why don't you email me?
email in profile.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
if you look at his MLB career
he seems to be pretty consistent…and it looks like his 2009 numbers will be very much in line with his career numbers.
by OaklandSi on Aug 1, 2009 9:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He play SS
So you have to adjust for position.
Also from FanGraphs (for consistency), here are WAR for the last few years:
2004: 1.0
2005: 3.6
2006: 2.7
2007: 3.8
2008: 3.5
His average value over that time has been $10-$15 million. Granted, he is 35, so he’s a collapse risk, but he’s certainly been a consistently productive player.
So far 2009 has been a bad year for him, especially on the defensive side if you think 2/3 season worth of data is worth anything, but so say his usual self isn’t above average is to ignore a lot of data.
by MrIncognito on Aug 1, 2009 10:53 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
WAR is Wins Above Replacement
colin said he was an “above average” ML shortstop. That’s not at all a certainty.
by Nate on Aug 1, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The average playing is about 2.25 WAR
So he’s been above average every year from 2005-2008.
by MrIncognito on Aug 5, 2009 1:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didnt o-cab have an insanely high BABIP in July too?
Its funny that, simply because he started hitting well right when we got rid of him, we get to hear about how “great” he was, and how great a cheerleader he is (who cares? give me a total jerk with a 1000 OPS please) when in reality, he’s one of the main reasons we stunk this year and we wouldnt have been sellers at the deadline if only he, holliday, giambi and nomar hit like professional ballplayers for the first 3 months of the year.
Ill be glad to have a guy who is able to control his bat and doesnt make under 3 pitch outs like 70% of the time in the lineup over o-cab ANY DAY.
by PL78 on Aug 1, 2009 11:12 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Professional ballplayers
go through slumps and hot streaks.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 12:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cabrera's value
We know his BRAA is going to hang around zero (see here for the breakdown of Cabrera’s value at SS), but I’m one of the people who think that his bad UZR this season is at least 50% fluky. Yes, he’s in his decline phase, but looking at the first few months of the season alone, you would think he had fallen off an enormous cliff. The signs of life he has shown over the last month+ leave me more convinced that he had a few bad months (and nsj pointed out that he did start the season out of shape… I’m not excusing him for that, but it does affect my evaluation Cabrera’s April).
Anyway, my point is that, projecting Cabrera forward, I would go with his performance from the last couple of seasons and then knock him down a little bit for aging.
by colin on Aug 1, 2009 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Except that last season was also fluky,
at least from a defensive standpoint. In any case, even if 8 runs below average is bad luck, it’s clear that 14 runs above average last year was very good luck. Put it all together and we’ve got an average defender and a below average hitter going into an age where his skills are only going to get worse.
by Nate on Aug 1, 2009 1:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He came into camp 15 pounds overweight.
His D sucked early, but has been consistently improving. I think he’s early season sucktitude was a result of being out of shape. Now that he’s in shape, he’s proven to be valuable.
"True fact: In a global thermonuclear war, the only human who would survive would be David Eckstein" -PT
by travdog6 on Aug 1, 2009 1:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ludicrous and ridiculous.
Why is it not sufficient to make your case with a good argument backed up by facts and data? Why do you have to follow up with claims that what the other guy thinks is “ridiculous” or “ludicrous”?
I’m not singling you out, Nate. I wouldn’t be so irritated by this if I didn’t see it on a regular basis here on AN. Among people who like to debate stats, language like this seems to be as natural as punctuation. Do you guys not even hear yourselves? I’m pretty open to statistical arguments, and I like it when someone makes a case with evidence, but then when I read something that essentially says “you’re a stupid fool if you don’t agree with me”, I wonder why you’re resorting to ad hominem, which then makes me wonder if you’re overcompensating for not having a good case.
Is this what they teach you kids in debate club? Do you score extra points for ridiculing your opponent? It sure doesn’t score extra points with me.
The previous generation of AN stats guys didn’t talk like this. I don’t remember Devo or SalB or NSJ or Danny saying things like “to believe otherwise is ridiculous”.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 1:55 PM PDT up reply actions 3 recs
it's all PT's fault.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kids these days.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sometimes you have to call a spade a spade
Is this what they teach you kids in debate club? Do you score extra points for ridiculing your opponent? It sure doesn’t score extra points with me.
However in this case Nate might have overstepped, I would have gone with unreasonable myself. That being said, I think pinning this on the stats people is quite unfair, as I can point to plenty of the same statements from traditionalists.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I accept your second point.
But as for naming spades, is it really necessary? I think you and I will agree that occasionally one sees a post from someone who really is just plain stupid. What is accomplished by saying “you are stupid”? Why not just refute the argument and leave its proponent’s stupidity uncommented upon?
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 3:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hate you all and find you stupid
Because you don’t get Spaceballs jokes.
by Nate on Aug 1, 2009 4:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
iglew doesn't do movies.
Quoting them is lost on him. It bothered me at first, but now I find it endearing.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 4:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't mind someone not getting the reference,
it’s going off on a self-righteous lecture because he doesn’t get the reference that I could do without.
by Nate on Aug 1, 2009 5:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You might want to rethink using the spade saying
esp. if you want to go into politics
by Future Ed on Aug 1, 2009 5:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why isn't it a bridge/card refference?
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 6:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It might be
Its one of those phrases that no one can agree on the derivation, but many sources trace the roots to as derogatory.
by Future Ed on Aug 1, 2009 6:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah I just looked it up and had no idea that there was that connotation.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 6:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not true.
The phrase “to call a spade a spade” is documented in English as early as the 16th century, and it (mis)translates a Latin phrase from classical Rome. There is no way it derives from a racial reference.
This is like objecting to the word “niggardly” because people erroneously believe it to be a racial slur when it surely is not.
That said, you still have to be sensitive, so I agree that DFA should learn to avoid the phrase in politics.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 9:25 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Plus Poochini is offended by the word "spade"
because it sounds like “spayed.”
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 Aug 2, 2009 9:00 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nope, sorry.
If I misinterpreted what was just a pop-culture based joke, I apologize. My bad.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 9:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"He got off to a very bad start this season..."
He fit right in with the A’s, then. Another guy who “sucked” was Holliday for most of the early season. Since leaving the A’s, he’s hit over .500. I think we’re cursed.
by gregorymark on Aug 1, 2009 12:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Holliday had a bad April and then wrecked shop the rest of the season.
Just because he didn’t hit a bunch of homers doesn’t mean he wasn’t a good hitter.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 12:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's as tough to hit a bunch of HRs out of the Coliseum
as it is easy to hit a bunch of HRs out of Colorado’s stadium.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not to mention the whole NL to AL switch
"True fact: In a global thermonuclear war, the only human who would survive would be David Eckstein" -PT
by travdog6 on Aug 1, 2009 1:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
plus, he's a douche.
so you’ve got to factor that in as well.
I believe Pete Palmer was the first to propose the “Douche to Usefulness to Team” ratio, or DUT.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Another important thing to consider, and quite possibly the reason the A's did not get the 3B they wanted
is that Cabrera has a clause in his contract (a very reasonable one considering the events of the off season) that disallows the team to offer him arbitration if he is a Type A Free Agent, as he was last year and currently profiles as.
Why did Cabrera demand this, and why were the A’s willing to give it to him? It is the reason why Cabrera took till Spring Training to sign, why so few teams pursued him, and why the A’s gave up their 2nd Round pick for him-Cabrera was a Type A Free Agent, and thus no one (save the A’s, who’s first round pick was protected), wanted to sign him (especially for what he was expecting early on) and sacrifice their first round pick.
Cabrera made sure that would not happen again this year.
Don't believe in yourself.
Believe in Me who believes in You.
by Zonis on Aug 1, 2009 8:12 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely
This trade is/was strictly a 2 month rental for Cabera’s services, the Twins weren’t going to get anything on the back end and that affected (effected?) the price they were willing to pay.
The monster at the end of this blog.
by grover on Aug 1, 2009 10:09 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
affected, I believe.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Although you could mean "effected" here
as in, brought into being. Though that seems like a slightly odd or clumsy formulation.
The difference is that “affected” would mean, “altered the price they were willing to pay,” whereas “effected” would mean, “resulted in the price they were willing to pay,” or “brought about the price they were willing to pay.”
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it would be nice if they just eliminated one of those words altogether.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In effect, wiping away any and all affected misspellings?
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes! Damn it, yes!
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't mind that.
That may surprise you, knowing that I’m a lover of obscure words, but really, “effect” as a verb is not a particularly useful word. Cases when you really need it are rare and will almost never come up in ordinary conversation. The language could get by just fine without it.
Any ordinary writer who isn’t a word maven can safely consider it a rule that the verb is always spelled “affect” and the noun is always spelled “effect”. That’s not technically correct on either point, but it’s close enough that it should keep you out of trouble.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
wait a minute...
…am I a word maven?!
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Judging by your comment tally, I'd say you're a word whore.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh.
well, I can live with that.
I actually like the sound of that.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was my desired reaction.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes.
And so is Nick. My proposed rule is for people like grover who would like to be right but don’t consider it a pleasurable activity to peruse Fowler or Strunk & White.
Same with my rule about “who” and “whom”.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Must hear about this rule.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
they don't own dictionary tables?
how do they get by?
I’m partial to Diane Hacker, BTW. Concise and to the point.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
anyone but that awful charlatan Lynne Truss!
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 2:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
What's your rule about "who" and "whom"?
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 2:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
In its simplest form the rule is:
Always say “who”; never say “whom”.
Analysis:
There are just two situations, one of which has subcategories:
1. Nominative. “Who” is correct, and “whom” is definitely wrong. Conclusion: use “who”.
2. Objective (of various sorts). “Whom” is correct, but even so it’s still OK to use “who” colloquially. Conclusion: use “who” or “whom”.
2a. In some cases, “whom” is technically correct, but you’ll sound like a prissy ass if you actually say “whom”. Conclusion: use “who”.
What we see from this analysis is that if you say “whom”, there are two ways in which you might err, resulting in a major faux pas that makes readers think you’re an illiterate moron and/or a pompous blowhard. On the other hand, if you say “who” all the time, the worst you’ll do is miss an opportunity to impress other word lovers with your brilliance, but you’ll never actually be wrong.
So if you do know the difference, go ahead and keep using “whom” properly (but beware of tricky cases where a nominative directly follows a preposition). If you don’t, just use “who” in every case and don’t worry about it.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 2:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why not have the same rule for "he" and "him" or "she" and "her" or "I" and "me" or "they" and "them"?
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 6:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because with those pronouns
the distinction between nominative and objective forms are strongly established in common use. For “who/whom” they are not, nor have they been for several centuries.
I notice you aren’t arguing for reinstitution of “ye” as a nominative form of “you”, which was already on the way out in Shakespeare’s time.
“Whom” is no longer required in all cases where “who” is an object, and in many cases it is very wrong idiomatically.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 9:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good rule
I still remember seeing an argument along these lines 30-some years ago and have always thought it was sensible.
I haven’t eliminated “whom” from my vocabulary, however. For example, asking for a clarification with the sentence fragment “To whom?” sounds right to my ear; “To who?” sounds silly. On the other hand, when the preposition is separated from its object, as is so often the case in colloquial English, I’ll go with “who,” since a sentence such as “Whom are you talking to” fits your category 2a of sounding like a prissy ass.
by Faust on Aug 2, 2009 8:16 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep that's it.
Cases where you need it are rare.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
i dont think the A's were looking for a 3rd baseman after getting Wallace
they got exactly the position they were looking for at SS. they might have wanted to get one further along than A ball but Dorf was drafted high, has some intriguing skills, was someone the A’s wanted from before and has a high ceiling .
"Gratuitous gesticulating together sounds even better"
by OmahaHi on Aug 1, 2009 12:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Billy yesterday on Comcast Live
“85% of what you hear isnt even close to the truth.”
There was no way the A’s were getting the Twins #1 prospect at 3B, and any thinking to the contrary is just plain pointless. No way a team gives away a top prospect for a 2 month rental of Cabrera.
S&BP > Mile High Mules
by 0akFoSho on Aug 1, 2009 1:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The obvious question
about resigning Cabrera is what kind of money he’s expecting. Part of that’s going to depend on whether he stays hot in Minnesota. Personally I don’t think that .900 OPS he had in July is sustainable, but if he keeps it going, does that mean he expects the $8-9M deal we were all expecting when the offseason began? Moreover, how many years will the 35 year-old want to sign for?
by Nate on Aug 1, 2009 8:27 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Cabrera is done with the A's.......
If he thinks he can get a lot of money. Most likely, Kennedy will be the one the A’s re-sign. Cabrera will only be back if he is a relatively good value for Billy. If he takes a similar contract to this season, then I could see him coming back next year, maybe with a tiny raise.
S&BP > Mile High Mules
by 0akFoSho on Aug 1, 2009 1:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It also lets the A's give Pennington a 50-game audition
The best thing that could happen here is that Penny does so well that the team feels confident they can pencil him in as the starter next year. That way, they can pay their shortstop $400K, and use some resources elsewhere (like Kurt Suzuki and Dallas Braden contract extensions, both which – well, Suzuki at least – are hopefully being drafted as we speak).
The free-agent shortstops this offseason:
Khalil Greene (suffering from major emotional and mental issues this season)
Bobby Crosby (more alienated from the fan base and the front office(?) than any A’s player I can remember)
Jack Wilson (Mariners may pick up his option, bad hitter even in the NL, publicly and loudly complains about rebuilding)
John McDonald (turns 36 next year, can’t hit, although I could see the A’s signing him for 1 year, $1M as insurance to compete with Pennington for the starting SS job, or the veteran utility MIF)
Adam Everett (defense has slipped to roughly league-average in his age-32 season, can’t hit enough to call him an upgrade over Pennington)
Alex Gonzalez (has not hit since missing the entire ’08 season due to injury; horrible plate discipline)
That leaves three remaining FA shortstops – the best three, all of whom have played shortstop for the A’s:
O-Cab, Marco Scutaro, and Tejada. The problem is, I think all three of those guys are going to get PAID. There are a lot more than three teams that would like shortstop upgrades. At least two of those three will get Edgar Renteria deals. It would be great if Pennington succeeds so that the A’s can comfortably sit out on the bidding for those three.
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 Aug 1, 2009 8:37 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I have absolutely nothing to base it on, but here goes:
I’d like to take a low-dollar flier on Khalil Greene for next year, assuming Pennington doesn’t perform well enough the rest of the year to merit a de facto starting job in 2010.
If anything, the Fast Times At Ridgemont High jokes all season would be worth it.
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 9:17 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
isn't Greene out with performance anxiety?
by OaklandSi on Aug 1, 2009 9:58 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Aug 1, 2009 11:45 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
gross, lets just get Scooter back, he wasnt mad at us and at least stays healthy and plays avg D. Ill take a 700 OPS over 150 games from Scooter over any other FA option.
or, you know, just trade for JJ Hardy, that would solve a lot of problems too…
by PL78 on Aug 1, 2009 11:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know what the infatuation is with Hardy
Okay, he was pretty good last year but he’s stunk it up this season.
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Aug 1, 2009 11:46 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's very good defensively, and his offense this year is flukily bad (.259 BABIP)
Hardy is still a at least a 2 WAR player even if he produces offensively like this year going forward (but there’s no reason to think that he wouldn’t hit better). He’s probably a great buy low candidate.
"We were shit, pathetic," Guillen growled early in spring training. "We hit too many home runs."
by lenscrafters on Aug 1, 2009 1:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
his offense isn't flukily bad
he looks horrible at the plate.
A low BABIP alone is not evidence “bad luck”. If we were major leaguers, our BABIPs would be under .100, because we would constantly make shitty contact.
That’s what Hardy is doing. He needs fixing.
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 Aug 1, 2009 6:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
we might all be at .000
chances of any of us making contact on ML pitching are close to that.
Do you know the way to San Jose?
by eastcoasta'sfan on Aug 1, 2009 7:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh, i agree, our batting averages would be near that :)
but I’m even talking about the rare pitches that we did make contact with – our “balls in play.” On those, a mediocre high school player such as myself would make bad contact. As such, even my BABIP would be under .100. My overall batting average would be like .019.
My overall point is that Hardy’s low BABIP is the result of the poor contact he’s making, not bad luck.
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 Aug 1, 2009 7:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Scooter is going to be vastly overpaid for an outlier season
by Joey C. on Aug 1, 2009 12:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This. He's going to get 3 years from someone
Whether that be Toronto (I think JP can smell the fluke) or someone else, its bound to happen.
"I generally avoid temptation unless I can't resist it" ~ Mae West
by Blicks on Aug 1, 2009 1:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Meh I kinda think Ricarrdi is a bad GM... I wouldn't be surprised if he made a bonehead move.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 1:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would not guarantee Khalil Greene a ML roster spot. At this point, he's a reclamation project.
After this season, it’ll be two straight seasons of below replacement level play from him. His bat is bad (and he’d be changing leagues) and his glove is worse.
I wouldn’t mind a nearly no cost flier on him, but he’d need to be on equal standing with Pennington/Petit.
by rebus on Aug 1, 2009 11:48 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
another option is JJ Hardy via trade this offseason
The Brewers will probably be ready to anoint Escobar their starting shortstop next spring. Hardy is entering his final year of arbitration, I believe.
But Hardy looks absolutely terrible right now. He needs a great hitting coach to fix him, and I don’t know if the A’s have one. My wife and I are in San Diego and we were up very close along the first base line at PETCO last night…Hardy’s lunging at everything, even pitches that he takes. All his weight is committed on his front leg when the pitch is halfway there and he just looks like he has no confidence in what he’s doing at all.
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 Aug 1, 2009 9:26 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Would you trade Duchscherer for him?
Assuming Duke actually does pitch and can be dealt in a post-deadline waiver deal?
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 9:30 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If I were Oakland, in a heartbeat!
Not if I were Melvin, though. There’s a decent chance Duke won’t pitch again this season. They have to hoping to get much more for him, despite his incredible struggles this year. Plus Hardy won’t make it through waivers, even if Duke did.
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 Aug 1, 2009 9:43 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Teams in desperate need of SS upgrades next year, due to FA or ineffectiveness:
Reds
Astros
Royals
Twins
Blue Jays
This is why I feel Cabrera, Scutaro and Tejada will get paid: There are more teams that desperately need SS upgrades this offseason than there are legitimate starting shortstops available. You could also potentially add the Red Sox to that list, although their inactivity at SS during this trade deadline suggests that they have plenty of faith in Lowrie’s recovery.
This won’t happen, but if ran the Yankees and had a $200M payroll, I’d offer Scutaro a competitive, starting shortstop market-level deal…to be my super-utility guy. It kind of amazes me that the Yankees are so wealthy and they have to trot out Cody Ransom when A-Rod is hurt and when their middle infielders need off days.
The Yankees have more than $40M coming off the books, and money to play with. Jeter and A-Rod are in their mid-30s, and they have no depth if their infielders go down. Scutaro’s played in New York before, and he’s been a terrific super-utility guy before, too…they could practically promise him at least 450 at-bats and a deep playoff run as a super utility guy.
But it won’t happen because I can’t remember a starting baseball player willingly signing a free agent contract in a place that made him a backup, and I can’t remember a baseball team paying multi-million dollars for a projected backup.
But I do think it would be a wise move for them.
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 Aug 1, 2009 9:39 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
1. Do you think the FA market will bounce back from last offseason? I dont. I think it will be even worse if you look at all the teams like Cleveland and Pittsburgh shedding payroll like no ones business. This year is harsh, across the board, the economy is still bad and people arent going to games anymore, or if they are, its on some crazy discounted ticket sheme.
2. Tejada’s defense is as worse as its ever been, and he’s almost exactly the same free-swinger o-cab is, only he actually gets base hits. I dont know how smart it is to play him at SS, he should be moved to anywhere but there (2B?). He’s old (at least 36 next year) and some team will definitely take a flyer on him, maybe they will be desperate enough to play him at SS, but his WAR is only 2.6 right now, we arent dealing with a game-changer here.
3. The Yanks have money coming off the books, but we do have $30M+ coming off the books too. However like I was saying, in this economy many teams that do appear to have that money “coming off” probably wont use it to spend on players, they will most likely just reduce payroll.
by PL78 on Aug 1, 2009 11:26 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Tejada's being looked at as 2B/3B, that just means Cabrera
is way more likely to get paid.
Re: the FA market. I don’t think its going to be as much of a buyers’ market as last year was because the general quality of talent available is lower. You’re not going to see Silva-esque albatross deals to mediocre players, but the really good players (Holliday, Bay, Lackey, maybe even Figgins) and the career year pretenders (Scutaro, Washburn, Piniero, Marquis) are going to get paid like the CC/AJ/Lowe/Perez/Furcal/Ibanez/Bradley were last year.
The value of prospects and draft picks though, is going to continue to increase. The value of draft picks though could seriously be impacted by how many overslot later round guys this year sign with their teams. Both Orlandos didn’t get signed because of the draft pick. That’s why Renteria got a 2 year deal and Cabrera a 1 year, even though last year Cabrera was far superior. Cabrera this year is going to get it big since the draft pick isn’t tied.
"I generally avoid temptation unless I can't resist it" ~ Mae West
by Blicks on Aug 1, 2009 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Economy is so bad
that even the Yankees are not looking to add payroll. I’ve been reading everywhere as that is the reason they couldn’t acquire a SP.
by rightbackin on Aug 1, 2009 2:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
They wouldn’t even pay Bannister the $650,000 left on his contract or whatever it was.
The Ultimate Opportunist
by Rated-R Superstar on Aug 1, 2009 2:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bannister would've cost prospects though
He’s actually good this year, and no reason for KC to trade him unless they’re getting something good in return. He’s legitimately made improvements and he’s still young and relatively cheap.
"I generally avoid temptation unless I can't resist it" ~ Mae West
by Blicks on Aug 1, 2009 2:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
lol @ the Yankees' stupidity
Those teams are star studded, but when their studs get hurt, which is going to happen, their reinforcements kinda sorta suck.
"I generally avoid temptation unless I can't resist it" ~ Mae West
by Blicks on Aug 1, 2009 2:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How many more years is Suzuki and Braden
Under club control? Do you think that either will sign similar contract extension that Zito & Swisher were willing to sig?.
by hishnik on Aug 1, 2009 10:15 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Suzuki yes, Braden no
If I were the A’s, I’d avoid a contract extension with Braden for another year. Don’t get me wrong. I love the guy. But I don’t think he’s proven he’ll have a long enough career to last beyond the six-year limit.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 11:50 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
both through 2013 at least. 2014 if they have an Arb 4 year.
the earlier the offer by the A’s the better the chances for a cheap extension. I think with the catching depth in the minors we don"t need too worry about Suzuki. Defense notwithstanding, His OPS is around 9th best for catchers in the A.L. so offensively not a big loss.
Braden’s another story. of the three outcomes, he could stay the same, he could improve, he could get worse,
two of them are a good reason to keep him around with 5 spots in the rotation. Alot of people around here feel he is going to regress but I think if the chances are 50/50 he is going to stay the same or get better we should hold on to him and ride out his cold streaks.
I think we still have plenty of time to worry about an extension and would like to see what the arbitration numbers are the next year or two in this economy before offering one.
"Gratuitous gesticulating together sounds even better"
by OmahaHi on Aug 1, 2009 12:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
what you want...
is option years on the back end in free agency. Those are absolutely GOLDEN.
Closely analyzing the Longoria deal – which is the most team-friendly deal in all of baseball – and other long-term extensions that were signed very early pre-arbitration, like Ryan Braun’s, the great appeal on the back end is multiple option years.
This is why I’d encourage long-term negotiations with Suzuki (definitely) and Braden (perhaps) right now. The earlier you negotiate, the more leverage the team has. These guys want to secure their long-term futures when they haven’t made their first million dollars yet.
You want to secure team option years on the back end of the extension – 2014, 2015, 2016. That way, if the team is in contention, and he’s still healthy and good, you fork over the ~$8-9M on a one year commitment. You get 1-3 more years of Suzuki’s prime during key contention deals on one-year renewable deals without having to commit to that scary 4-6 year expensive free agent deal for a catcher that will be in his mid-30s by the end of the deal.
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 Aug 1, 2009 6:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully Pennington comes through
If he can establish himself as a solid defensive player who can get a hit here or there then maybe SS will be solved for awhile. One thing is for sure looking at that list of free agents he won’t have to do much to get the job. I do want to say if Bobby Crosby was re-signed that might be it for me. I just got finished reading his whinny self absorbed rants online about how he should be that starter at SS and frankly the A’s should cut him right now. This guy is the worst player on the team and to say I can’t stand him would be a understatement. What a bum.
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 10:07 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Actually Crosby is playing pretty good baseball right now, better than he has.
Part of it is that he is playing 3B and 1B a lot and getting good at bats now. He should be happy to stay as a backup MI and not a starting SS. But he is probably thinking about his free agency and how much more he might be worth if he was the starting SS for the rest of the year.
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"
by Eastbayjim on Aug 1, 2009 12:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You must have really tempered your expectations of Crosby then.
His bat isn’t as bad as the previous 3 seasons, but there’s been no big change in his approach or relevant results for a ~200 plate appearance sample. There’s no reason to believe he’s turned a corner and can play ~140 games at shortstop with his balky back and below average skills.
by rebus on Aug 1, 2009 12:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he would like to start at SS for the rest of the year for FA
I think Crosby has shown he can be valuable as a Utility infielder.
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"
by Eastbayjim on Aug 1, 2009 4:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's still on pace to be as bad as his last three seasons have been
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Aug 1, 2009 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
the A's should do him the favor of DFAing him so he has an opportunity to get a head start on where he will be playing next year.
of course the team would be doing themselves a favor also by playing all the rookies as much as possible so our franchise has a better idea of the ones worth keeping for next year.
"Gratuitous gesticulating together sounds even better"
by OmahaHi on Aug 1, 2009 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is an amazing statement
Consider that, at the moment, he’s managed to hit even worse this season than he did during last year’s epic suckfest.
Outman, fighter of the Hitman, champion of the K, he's a master of scoreless innings and friendship for everyone.
by walk off bunt on Aug 1, 2009 2:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Crosby has more value
than he is commonly given credit for here on AN. Nevertheless, he really really needs a change of scenery, and if it weren’t for his contract, he’d have gotten it long ago. For the A’s to re-sign him would be bad for both the A’s and for Crosby.
I think he’ll end up on someone’s major league roster, with the possibility of earning a place in the starting lineup or earning a place in AAA, depending on how he fares. I wish him well on a new team.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 2:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, I agree
look at that list of FA shortstops I posted above. It’s not good. And there’s more teams who need a shortstop than there are decent options. Crosby’s still not yet 30 years old.
He’s going to a chance to be the starting shortstop for an NL team next year that doesn’t have much money to spend this offseason – I’d say Houston or Cincinnati – and he’s probably going to hit much better once he gets to hit in one of those two launching pads, and switches to the NL.
The annoying thing for me is, I think he’ll feel like he got the last laugh. That shouldn’t bother me, but I’m annoyed that he sucked for several years, gets paid millions of dollars, and still seems very ungrateful to the A’s (in his public comments, even) for the opportunities and money they’ve given him. That’s why he’s my least favorite A’s player I can remember. So much so that, even though I’m a generally easy-going guy, it bothers me that I think he’ll get that renaissance in Houston or Cincy.
The rare guy I actually kinda root for to fail.
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 Aug 1, 2009 7:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ack. Can't people spell?
Whinny. Strickout. Loosing.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 11:52 AM PDT reply actions 0 recs
'Strickout' has its history
Though I don’t think I can say the same for the other two.
They say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing all the time!
by muffinpryde on Aug 1, 2009 12:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No
I can’t spell. AN needs a spell checker for people like me.
You have to include smiley faces - Poppy
;- ) :- ) :-O : -> : -] : -}
by micdog2001 on Aug 1, 2009 12:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
(firefox has one)
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 1:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Though for some reason it doesn't work in the subject box of a comment
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
thar ist thate...
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gotta love my delete button.
{runs}
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
YOU'RE the one who's been deleting all the A's runs this year?
WTF is your problem??!?
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No! It wasn't me!
OK, there was one game. We were ahead by five. Thought I would try it. What could it hurt, right? No one would even notice. How did I know they’d come back? How was I to know?
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not that hard...
…to learn to spell, unless you’re dyslexic or have some other learning disability.
If you’re not sure, just google the word and you’ll immediately get a dictionary definition and a correction. The problem with Spell Check is that the word “loosing” does exist, as does “whinny.” Spell Check doesn’t allow for context.
Everyone makes typos. But misspelling simple words - that kind of makes someone look like an idiot and out there in the real world allows for serious and thoughtful comments to be dismissed out of hand.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am a terrible speller... always have been, so I find this comment to be kind of ridiculous
English is a stupid language that doesn’t follow its own rules. I’ve tried to become a better speller with no luck having taken class after class as a kid. A bigger problem than not knowing how to spell is not being able to identify when a word is misspelled, because I know how to look a word up (dictionaries are useless to people that don’t know how spell, though things like google and spell check help a lot).
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 1:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
It must be the education system
Or the fact that people don’t read any more. Or all they read are misspelled words on-line.
Maybe they’re there, but I haven’t noticed spelling errors in your particular posts, which means that you’re paying attention. Google these days will pretty much correct any error, as you note.
But c’mon - words like “loosing” and “wining”? I mean, this is shit a first grader should know.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I admit, that "loosing" one makes me cringe.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
True story.
When I was in journalism in high school (which was set to be my career path prior to discovering the joys of the demon rum, et al), there was a big Supreme Court case wherein we lost any and all rights as student journalists and fell under rule of the administration.
Our big, 72 pts. headline that issue was “STUDENTS LOOSE RIGHTS”.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Loosing" is another word we could be rid of.
Unless you’re talking about purse strings or the dogs of war, you’re not likely to have any need of it. For someone like DFA, I think he’d do fine to just figure that the verb is always spelled “lose” and the adjective is always “loose”.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 2:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wait are you saying I make that error?
or are you using me as a place holder? Because in case 1… fuckin a and in case 2 whew.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 3:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was just referring to you as someone who
has acknowledged he doesn’t have a facility for spelling and (I assumed) would appreciate simple rules that can be safely followed.
I have no idea if you’ve made that particular error. I have noticed that you aren’t a particularly good speller. (For the record, although I appreciate good spelling, I’m not all cranky about it like richwol was earlier in this thread. I only get fussy when someone is so illiterate that you honestly can’t even understand what he’s talking about, which, sadly, does happen occasionally on AN.)
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 9:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe they’re there, but I haven’t noticed spelling errors in your particular posts, which means that you’re paying attention.
LOL they are there… I know they are. I use to do political blogging and they were everywhere and I actually cared what people thought about my posts and my spelling then.
It has nothing to do with the quantity of reading I did growing up. I started reading the whole Chronicle every day in fourth grade. Google only works if you know there is an error and like I said the ability to see misspelled words is not a teachable skill for some.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 2:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Chronicle
Ah! Okay, now it all makes sense.
Kidding.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Its a terrible terrible paper, I convinced my folks to get the SJ Mercury News despite living in SF in HS
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 3:30 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
English is not a stupid language, and it does follow its own rules.
It’s just that the rules are very deep and complicated. English has a long history, which begins with a merger of two very different languages and follows with centuries of assimilation from various others.
The patterns are there, but they’re rarely simple. For those who love language, there is no language on earth that rivals English for its richness. The great Danish linguist Otto Jespersen (who was fluent in about 30 languages, familiar with about 100, and helped to invent three) often stated that English was his favorite among them.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 2:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like it.
It’s cute.
It has a nice butt.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:35 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Im not saying it doesn't have a interesting history...
but It makes little sense because of the assimilation and merger. I like all sorts of complicated failures like Jespersen, like my girlfriends and the team the A’s send out every night this year, doesn’t mean that they are optimal.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 3:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
true
english is a surprisingly inconsistent language when it comes to phonetic pronunciation.
I don't always blog. But when I do, I prefer AN. Stay thirsty my friends.
by Kallus on Aug 1, 2009 3:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Every non-phonetic spelling
carries with it a record of the word’s history. It’s wonderfully informative.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 9:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't feel bad
I used to be a grammar nazi until I learned a bit about how how language works and evolves. Now that I understand that today’s rules are mostly someone’s mistake several hundred years ago, I don’t worry about it all.
I actually have this weird ability to literally never make a spelling or grammar mistake. (typos and logic errors, sure . . . ) That ability does not make me one bit more intelligent than you, and its practical value is essentially zero.
Do you know the way to San Jose?
by eastcoasta'sfan on Aug 1, 2009 7:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Whinny is how I'd spell it
and I think it describes you as well richwol1
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 1:37 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Congratulations
You’ve just proved that education doesn’t matter.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is this really happening?
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
what of it....punk?
{shoves 67}
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you don't want any of this Bloom
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take what I can get, big boy.
rawr.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you do know how to make love, Bloom
um. I mean, as opposed to war.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of war, lose the dogs
Um, I mean loose them.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 2:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Then lay on, macduff
and damned be he who first cries “hold, enough”
Do you know the way to San Jose?
by eastcoasta'sfan on Aug 1, 2009 7:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This week I actually saw the play that is the origin
of “gild the lily”. It’s in King John, which I didn’t know at all.
I can see why it’s not done often … not a particularly good play. But it’s still Shakespeare. Better than nothing, especially up close. I love live, intimate theater.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 9:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have a masters degree and I looked up whinny and it passed muster for a slang term
and complaining about spelling is as low as saying 1st! you’re being a jerk!
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But why is saying "first" so bad?
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well ok then.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just sick of all the misspelling, all the time
Finally got to me.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lighten the hell up dude
Your life will be better for it
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 1:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aright all of you!
Go sit on opposite sides of the room….now!
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 1:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No matter what side I am on it is always the right side.
If I move to the other side, it is still the right side.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is that like turning right and going straight?
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 1:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or going right and turning straight.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can go right,
but…
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He is....
the Most Interesting Man on AN.
I'll have a sandwich and a draft(sic). - Bill King (RIP)
by BleedGreen on Aug 1, 2009 5:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh okay mrod
I’ll put away my dueling sword
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 1:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
By all means......swordfight!!!!
;)
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
This would be so much better
if the combatants were OAH and Jennifer.
Well ok that is hardly a fair fight.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
OAH and ZF?
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 1:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's probably a little more fair
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jennifer would probably be carrying a knife.
At very least.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
how about a foodfight!!!
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that picture's too small.
I can’t see what it is…
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How about this one....
foodfight!!!!!!
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
photo police.
Your tax dollars at work.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
spelling my ass
diction is the real enemy.
don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 1, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Glad to see your lightning up, Rich.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 3:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm really cranky right now
I just lost a day job that allowed me to do my journalism without having to worry about getting paid for it. After ten years. Not even sure if I want to dip into my savings next year and keep my A’s package if I can’t find a way to renew my revenue stream. So I’m cranky about just about everything. Spelling. The Cabrera trade.
Sorry.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 1:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that sucks, bro.
Sorry.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can't afford to go to the game today....I'm bummed.. ;(
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry to hear that and sorry I called you a jerk
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
We should all hug.
But seriously, sorry to hear about that, richwol1.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let's get back to fun stuff like ripping Bobby Crosby.
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
see my post below
vvvvv
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But I like Crosby.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
But he doesn't like you....
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 2:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
You just watch yourself.
We’re wanted men. I have the death sentence on twelve systems.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like you, too, Marquez.
The Ultimate Opportunist
by Rated-R Superstar on Aug 1, 2009 2:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Um, if we hug, it'll lead to sex, right?
Iglew said cuddling was key.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Key to what, exactly?
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
sexy fun time.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh that.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I always call it that.
i.e.: “You should come home with me tonight so we can have sexy fun time.”
and it never seems to work out. Thoughts?
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah you should probably go with a different tactic.
Leave “fun” and “time” out of it.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wait, that didn't work.
Hmm, well I can delete the first comment and start over.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 2:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sorry to hear about that richwol1
I’ve been there. Losing a job sucks.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 2:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was working for a subcontractor
for one of the Bay Area counties, which decided to go in-house on the job because of cuts in the budget. This is, it was a “day job”, working at home on my computer which subsidized my journalism work.
This is not a good time to be in a career in journalism, unless you’re willing to have a day job on the side.
by richwol1 on Aug 1, 2009 2:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
journalism is a tough racket, agreed.
I’d have been in trouble if not for the demon rum et al.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 3:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
wait,
an MA in what? There are advanced degrees and advanced degrees.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
well, okay, then,
just as long as it’s a real degree.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The future...
…is always down the road. Trading accomplished veterans in their prime for some unknown with potential is not only risky, but tiresome. I get the sense that Billy never tires of playing “fantasy baseball,” but some of us get tired of having an organization filled from top to bottom with “prospects,” most of whom never amount to anything.
by gregorymark on Aug 1, 2009 12:34 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
This is one of the more idiotic comments that has been made here in a while
Trading past their prime free agents to be who are having a bad year, preventing giving valuable at bats to prospects from within the organization, and are ineligible for draft pick compensation during a rebuilding year is exactly what Beane should be doing.
If you disagree with that strategy “I hate you and think you are stupid.”
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 12:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The A's are perpetually "rebuilding"
That might give a thrill to you baseball geeks, but for the average fan, it’s a perpetual bus ride to nowhere. Witness the worst attendance record in baseball.
by gregorymark on Aug 1, 2009 12:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
How was that different than 2006, when they went to the ALCS?
"I’m Joey Devine, I’m what Joba Chamberlain would be if he was good and nobody had ever heard of him."
by mikev on Aug 1, 2009 1:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe in the last year or two
Short attention span? What have you done for me lately?
How does keeping Cabrera here for the whole season make the A’s better down the line? Please come with more than “veteran presence.”
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Aug 1, 2009 1:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
GTFO and go follow the Giants.
by son of wes on Aug 1, 2009 1:10 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Meant for Gregory not you Flashfire, obviously.
by son of wes on Aug 1, 2009 1:11 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
...thought you were talking to Nico there for a minute...
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hahaha
I would never never wish being a Giants fan upon Nico..
by son of wes on Aug 1, 2009 3:03 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
but he is.
just ask him. he’ll wax on about it for hours. it’s the only thing that brings him joy these days—baseball-wise, anyhow.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 3:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm an A's fan first and foremost, always and forever
The Giants were, IMO, more interesting to watch in the first half than the A’s were, and the Giants are in a real pennant race the second half, which offers a type of excitement that can’t be gotten in a “lost year” no matter what the future looks like.
However, I only love the A’s.
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 Aug 1, 2009 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Face it, you're having an affair.
It’s not my fault I’m bitter. You’re the one who’s being unfaithful.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 3:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shrug
I go both ways. And then some.
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 Aug 1, 2009 3:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cheater!
(call me)
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 3:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Since Nico can't play with farm animals anymore he has turned into multi league baseball fan
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"
by Eastbayjim on Aug 1, 2009 4:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
gotta stay busy
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 Aug 1, 2009 4:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"But, honey, you're the only one I love.
With that other team, it’s just for fun. It doesn’t mean anything. That means it doesn’t count as cheating."
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 9:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Plus I didn't go all the way;
I skipped the 9th inning.
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 Aug 2, 2009 9:01 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Id rather watch my team rebuild than bandwagon on a contender.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's a bit much
I watch some giants games as well. I’m a baseball fan; I’ll watch a ball game if it looks good. And the giants are doing well this year. Simply watching a few games doesn’t mean that Nico’s on the bandwagon.
I don't always blog. But when I do, I prefer AN. Stay thirsty my friends.
by Kallus on Aug 1, 2009 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
He is.
He’s admitted as much.
Wait, are you his lawyer?
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 4:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have no comment...
and I’ve advised my client to not comment, either.
I don't always blog. But when I do, I prefer AN. Stay thirsty my friends.
by Kallus on Aug 1, 2009 6:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe it was a little terse
but to me the definition of a bandwagon fan is one that follows a team simply because they are winning, which sounds like what Nico was saying about following the Gigantes. I love baseball and will watch a good game if its on, but I am just as happy to watch a Marlins Nationals game as a Yankees/Red Soxs game.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 4:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I see the difference as being
a bandwagon fan goes from not following a team when they are doing poorly, to actively being a fan when they are doing well. In Nico’s own words, he’s followed the gnats for a while (when they were terrible). And I kinda think the whole “Nico is a Giants fan” is more of a joke than anything else. Just something to razz him about when he professes his Panda man-crush, which I also share with him.
I don't always blog. But when I do, I prefer AN. Stay thirsty my friends.
by Kallus on Aug 1, 2009 6:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sandoval is and interesting case study
and I guess it is acceptable to causally follow the Giants (I wouldn’t recommend it). Teams I am generally interested in are mostly philosophical.
A’s (The only team I root for)
Twins
Marlins
Rays
Mariners (just because when I am in Oregon its most accessible and who most of my friends up there root for)
Braves
Cubs
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 6:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've watched the Giants for years
I just find the team especially interesting at the moment due to Sandoval, Lincecum, Velez/Torrez, and a real chemistry that makes you believe the team can overachieve just enough to hang in there in the race. And sadly, like many others I have found the A’s especially uninteresting this season — up until around the ASB, when I think the team has FINALLY figured out how to play some actual BASEBALL.
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 Aug 1, 2009 4:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
The A's were perpetually winning for 7 years.. three bad seasons, (one where we looked like a contender) is perpetually rebuilding?
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly
Beane was GM when the A’s were going to playoffs year after year. Do people think he got tired of that and now prefers losing and acquiring A-ball players?
My inference is that Beane prefers the possibility of having a 95-win team in a couple of years to the possibility of improving to a 78-win team this year by not trading veterans for prospects.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 1:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm with Beane for now
but if this team still stinks in 2011 then the gloves come off.
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 1:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually I think the starting pitching will be the A's staple by 2011 like they were in the early 2000s
Only this time they will have a full group of 5 good pitchers with Mazzaro, Anderson, Cahill , Gio, Braden and Outman. Throw in the possibilities of FDLS being as good as he was before he got hurt and the possibility that BB signs Duke then there is even more.
With the young guys like Wallace, Carter, Cardenas and others coming up soon, I think the A’s can be in the playoffs again in 201.
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"
by Eastbayjim on Aug 1, 2009 4:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
3201
It’s gonna be a rebuilding millennium.
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 Aug 1, 2009 7:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which veteran in his prime was traded for unknowns?
Holliday? He was either going to be traded now or allowed to walk at the end of the year, but to get the picks the A’s would have had to offer him arbitration and there’s no guarantee he wouldn’t have accepted it if the year he had was poor enough to really devalue him on the market.
Cabrera? He’s definitely not a veteran in his prime. He had three bad months and one great month. The fortunate thing is that great month was July, right when a team in contention wanted him. To get anything for him now is fine because they’d have had zilch to show for it if he stayed here all season. They wouldn’t get any picks if he signed somewhere else. Now they did get a prospect that pretty accurately reflects the true value Cabrera has and he gets to go to a pennant race.
So what’s the problem? You think this is Billy just playing fantasy baseball?
Last of the Ninth - Photography Site / jamesvenes.com - Blog
by Flashfire on Aug 1, 2009 1:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
BB has proven that if the team is in it, he will be a buyer
the team is not in it. why would you hang on people who are going to leave after the year? If anything I am disappointing we didn’t trade Springer and anyone else not going to be here for A ball filler. Our attendance would be bad if we were in first right now. Not as bad, but bad.
"Gratuitous gesticulating together sounds even better"
by OmahaHi on Aug 1, 2009 1:03 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
I'll just rejoice in the fact that we get to see whether or not
Cliffy really has anything legitimate to offer at the big league level. If not, time for plan B.
Also, if I were Bobby Crosby I would just shut the fuck up and collect my fat paycheck, be thankful I’m still getting one, and pray to God that someone will want to give me a job next year and beyond…….Jesus, what a crybaby!
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 1:12 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Just be professional Bobby!
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 1:12 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
Ooh, a front-page mention by
the flog-bother blog-father!
Just to confirm: Yes, you have accurately represented my feeling about wins and trade-offs. (And yes, you’re a swell guy, too.)
As for the specific trade, I think I’m less excited about it than you are. I’m fine with it, but I don’t think I’d be disappointed I heard it was offered and declined. Overall, I think I like it more than not, but not by all that much.
I think the difference is our view of Ladendorf. You seem to be estimating about 50% chance he’s a total bust, and my sense is it’s more like 80%. Not that either of us have a better idea of this than the actual scouting departments on the actual teams (or indeed know anything at all that we didn’t read in an article by someone else), but that’s my gut feeling from what I’ve read anyway.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 1:28 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
The glass-half-empty (or more than half) on Ladendorf
is, I think, this: he’s no more intriguing after a year in the minors than he was when he was drafted. Stagnation is not a good thing in a prospect.
The glass __% full is that he’s still quite young, and he’s still toolsy. And he did hit like a maniac in low-A this season before being promoted.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 1:31 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is "Stagnation" the new member of SB Nation?
A SB Nation blog for:
1. The adult male of various deer, especially the red deer.
2. An animal, especially a pig, castrated after reaching sexual maturity.
3. A person who attends a social gathering unaccompanied by a partner, especially a man who is unaccompanied by a woman.
4. A social gathering for men only.
from: answers.com
by rightbackin on Aug 1, 2009 3:03 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
What do you define as bust?
Also if youre looking at percentage that he is an above average major leaguer its probably less than that.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 1:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
we can all agree on that.
It’s a hell of a bust.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Impeccable timing.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like how she's looking off in the distance,
like she’s thinking, “Jesus, could these things defy gravity any more than they are right now?!”
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was hoping for dirtier thoughts but that made me laugh.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 1, 2009 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think she's leaning back to balance herself, right?
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, they're filled with helium.
That’s how they stay up.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 3:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"That dude up in the 2nd deck is pretty hot"
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 2:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"I wonder... how many people are looking at something other than my chest right now?"
by rebus on Aug 1, 2009 3:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
"And Jose doesn't count -- his eyes are closed."
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 6:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
thats a hands free double flag salute. very patriotic
"Gratuitous gesticulating together sounds even better"
by OmahaHi on Aug 1, 2009 11:33 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well played... but more than a handfull is more than I want.
Dating girls is like starting pitching depth, you think you have a good full rotation, even too many starters, then in an instant as soon as you trade your depth away injuries decimate your rotation and you are forced to start Sidney Ponson.
by designatedforassignment on Aug 1, 2009 2:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
you, um,
you got a little something on your nose, there.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are you negging me??
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Freakonomics?
Hmmm. Could be.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone who introduces that concept
on a thread that R-RS might read will deserve to burn in hell for eternity.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 6:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
True.
I think he’d be immune, though.
Most of the guys who promote that stuff will freely acknowledge that it only works for getting girls home so you can bang them, does not work for actual real relationships. I’m pretty sure R is more interested in the latter.
"Go ahead and overachieve, you scrappy Brett-Favre-colored walk-takers." —Rev Halofan
by iglew on Aug 1, 2009 9:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
Quick note on Crosby
I remember him saying something similar in Spring Training when he found out he was going to have to learn to play 3B, 1B and (at the time 2B). He complained about it to the press, said he saw himself as a SS and had played only SS since high school…and then calmed down, shut up,and learned the other positions.
I agree that what he said was stupid and…lacking in perspective. But it’s also possible that he was just pissed off at the moment. Hopefully he’ll calm down and get back to work.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 1:29 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
He needs to keep that shit to himself.
All he is doing is making himself look even worse for wear when looking for A JOB NEXT YEAR….not to mention the fact that imagine how that shit makes Pennington feel…?
Baseball is a fraternity and Billy has friends in many places so I think that Crosby just cost himself a possible gig in at least a handful of places….but hey, it’s not my life so whatever.
Zeigler to Geren…."A-Rod? He’s my bitch." -alox
by mrod on Aug 1, 2009 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
So I'm listening ot this Lou Reed concert from '77,
and I’m a huge LR/VU fan and Lou is concert’s about as consistent with his studio albums as Dylan is. But this is really good. Strange, but good. It’s the weekend lead for Wolfgang’s Vault, if anyone’s interested.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:00 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs
i said i wanna be a singer like lou reed. i love lou reed, she said sticking her tongue in my rear.
ear! EAR!
so… i see the PLAY button for that concert, but it doesn’t click. do i have to buy something first?
don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 1, 2009 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
nah,
just sign up for the site. Tons of free concerts. Awesome site if you like older, classic-type rock, or country, even.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 2:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just saw a youtube clip of Lou singing "Perfect Day" in concert with Luciano Pavarotti
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 1, 2009 2:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was going to bring that one up
but I thought it was kind of mean.
by colin on Aug 1, 2009 2:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
why mean?
Lou’s a weirdo and inconsistent—always has been. When he tries, his stuff is really good. Other times, he doesn’t try so much.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 3:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
I had a friend in college that was into Lou Reed
and while I could never get into his voice he does write some provocative lyrics.
by sirbed on Aug 1, 2009 4:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
his voice,
like Dylan, like Leonard Cohen, is an acquired taste.
A real Poppy Palace would have a lot more chocolate, and a moat with otters. -Poppy
by Leopold Bloom on Aug 1, 2009 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs
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