"Never Save A Pitcher For Tomorrow--Tomorrow It May Rain"

Torre blundered

Because it was common knowlege that todays game had a VERY good chance of being rained out. Hell, they thought both today and yesterday would be rained out.

... and it was at that point that I realized that by thinking outside the box, I had simply walked inside a cube...

by Zonis on Oct 8, 2005 3:08 PM PDT reply actions

defintiely

I hadn't even really thought about that, Nico-but I have to say, I really admired Scoscia using his horses early in the game when it was to be decided instead of saving them for later.

Of course, Anaheim has KRod, Kelvim, Shields, and Donnolly. Torre really just has Mo and Gordon, and Gordon is prone to breaking down at any time from overuse. Like our boy macha loved to say, a great bullpen makes a great manager.

by SeanR on Oct 8, 2005 3:23 PM PDT reply actions

How can you manage assuming that

tomorrow's game will be called due to rain?

I think Scioscia got lucky.

by OaklandSi on Oct 8, 2005 3:54 PM PDT reply actions

You can't know for sure, but

living in New York, it's been rainy and windy for the last couple of days and everyone knew today was going to be HORRID conditions.

Hindsight is 20/20, but you do have to play for the day, not for tomorrow.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Oct 8, 2005 4:01 PM PDT up reply actions

I agree...

...I'm on the West Coast and even I could tell from the Weather Station AND from watching it rain all during the game that the probability (and that is what much of baseball is about) of the game being rained out was good to excellent. This had to be something both teams would consider - neither manager is stupid. Maybe the elephant in the room was Steinbrenner - doesn't like to lose, particularly in Yankee Stadium.

by doubleplayer on Oct 8, 2005 6:59 PM PDT up reply actions

You don't

but in the playoffs you don't look a gift horse in the mouth either. The Yanks had battled back to take a lead after being behind 5-0. If they win that game they've got momentum. Today is a sure thing, while tomorrow might never come. That is, in a best of 5 series every individual win is important and you do what you have to to win today. Tomorrow is when you worry about tomorrow. Sciossa, it pains me to say, played it the way you need to, in my opinion, to win in the playoffs. Torre has questions to answer.

by IndianaAsfan on Oct 8, 2005 9:17 PM PDT up reply actions

all u had to do was look at the radar...

the storm is about 1,000 miles long by 300 miles wide. anyhow, I doubt rain played much part in either manager's decision making, Torre just doesn't like to use his best before the seventh.

by vk on Oct 8, 2005 3:56 PM PDT reply actions

Scoscia has "abused" K Rod all year

There was a great ESPN.com article about this actually.

There was a stretch where the Anaheim bullpen was looking not-so-peachy, but you could tell they really missed Escobar. Now with him back, the Angels bullpen is really doing a great job - despite the fact that for the last 2 months everyone has been saying that Scioscia is abusing K-Rod.

I remember reading similar criticisms of Torre in the last couple of weeks of the season. Most of it is warranted. My favorite Macha moments was when he brought in our best reliever - Street - in the most necessary moment, rather than just the last 3 outs. BUT Torre I'm sure has his reasons. Gordon and Rivera are the only 2 really reliable arms in the pen and have been used a lot.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Oct 8, 2005 3:58 PM PDT reply actions

Torre is behind the 8 ball either way

Gordon's post-season ERA smells like booty.

"I try to figure this team out, and if I could, I'd be a genius," Mark Ellis

by Little Lebowski Urban Achievers on Oct 8, 2005 4:06 PM PDT reply actions

Torre has been the best

at managing for today in prior post seasons.

by BleacherDave on Oct 8, 2005 4:19 PM PDT reply actions

I agree

He just doesn't have the horses now. It's Rivera, Gordon (iffy) and uh... hmm...

by bear88 on Oct 8, 2005 4:23 PM PDT up reply actions

Win the game now

Scoiscia obviously has the deeper bullpen now that Escobar is in the mix. They had a chance to win the game, Byrd notwithstanding, and did what they could do take advantage of it.

That's smart managing, even without the rain. You don't save your bullpen when there's a playoff game to be won. But the likelihood of a rainout made a go-for-broke strategy even smarter.

Now the Angels can start Shrek tomorrow on four days rest and have Lackey ready to go on Monday.

As for Finley, I would agree with you in the regular season. But with Escobar dealing and K-Rod in the wings, you take the extra run in a critical playoff game.

by bear88 on Oct 8, 2005 4:22 PM PDT reply actions

Wow this sounds familiar

FIRE MACHA NOW!!!!!!!

by theblackpearl on Oct 8, 2005 4:46 PM PDT reply actions

Well, it really does

show why all teams' blogs have a high frequency of posts that say "FIRE __ NOW!!!"

Nico

by Nico on Oct 8, 2005 4:51 PM PDT reply actions

pitching + defense = playoff wins

Playoffs are always about pitching and defense. I'm not sure why the national media is so in love with the Yanks and Red Sox, especially considering how poorly they had pitched through the year. Sometimes the numbers don't lie. The following should be noted:

Randy Johnson got hit hard and lost twice to the Angels this year. Why nobody noticed is beyond me.
In Flash Gordon's appearances against the Angels, he didn't do that hot either.
Even Mariano Rivera isn't immune to giving up runs to the Angels. He's given up two, including this playoffs, to the Angels this season. That might not seem like a lot, but this is Rivera we're talking about.
Kelvim Escobar return from injury was a godsend. It allowed Shields, Donnelly, and Rodriguez some necessary rest at the end of the season. Scioscia didn't trust the rest of the pen and with good reason. (Esteban Yan? The GM has some explaining to do on that one.)
Had it not rained out, it's Washburn vs. Chacon. Advantage: Scoscia. Sure Chacon did well, but I'm sure Torre, given the chance, would rather have Washburn, I would guess.
Considering the day off before, Game 3, I don't think Scoscia would have had a problem putting out Escobar and Shields for a total of 3 innings and Rodriguez for one had Geme 4 happened, even with the prospect of a Game 5, with Colon and Santana available.
It's not over, but it might as well be. A rested bullpen, Colon in Game 4 and Lackey in a Game 5. Seems doubtful they'd win both of those.

by calangel on Oct 8, 2005 5:00 PM PDT reply actions

Yeah, why bother playing?

Just hand it to the Angels now.

Geeminy crickets, you sound just like a GD Yankee fan!

"HRs by second basemen are sexy. They're rare and exotic." -Kyli

by McFood on Oct 9, 2005 3:55 PM PDT up reply actions

game time

Why would they schedule tomorrow's game for 7:30 ET? Then, if the Yankees win, they've got to get on a plane late for what I assume would be a night game in Anaheim on Monday---and then the winner has to fly to Chicago for a game on Tuesday night. Shouldn't the game be earlier in the day? I guess TV always wins out.

by Alien @ Athletics Nation on Oct 8, 2005 5:14 PM PDT reply actions

I was wondering the same thing

that is brutal and a real advantage to the White Sox if the Angels don't win tomorrow. If the Angels win, then no problem, they have Colon and
Lackey ready to go.
As long as the Yankees lose, life is good for me, almost makes up for the A's not winning.

by china bob on Oct 8, 2005 5:30 PM PDT up reply actions

Molina

What is the status of molina? He looked like his elbow could be broken, I haven't head anything?

by Graybeard on Oct 8, 2005 5:36 PM PDT reply actions

Fox pregame quoted Molinas as

saying he could have played today. If so, I imagine he'll be in the lineup tomorrow.

Yesterday they did announce that x-rays were negative.

by OaklandSi on Oct 8, 2005 5:38 PM PDT up reply actions

Damnit!

by baseballnut020 on Oct 8, 2005 7:17 PM PDT up reply actions

i will be so happy when the astros

beat the braves.

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 Oct 8, 2005 5:39 PM PDT reply actions

1-0 houston

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 Oct 8, 2005 5:40 PM PDT up reply actions

i miss huddy

just caught him cheering in the bullpen when the braves tied up the game

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 8, 2005 5:59 PM PDT reply actions

Rainout

Just another reason why the A's should be in the playoffs -- today would have been a perfectly lovely day for a ball game in Oakland...

"I think there were more readers in the minor leagues," Hatteberg said. "Nobody had money, and we had those long, long bus rides."

by Englishmajor on Oct 8, 2005 6:06 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Game Time

Alien, the 7:30 pm time for tomorrow night is set by MLB, not by FOX Sports. However much a day game makes sense baseball-wise (so players have more rest on Monday), the execs still want to sell more tickets and have a big TV audience.

Bottom line: the playoffs are broadcast during prime time as much as possible, including a rain postponement.

Joe Girardi comments on the topic in this article ( http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=251008110 ), making a good point about how the audience keeps salaries high, so baseball wil make some accommodations for that.
--
Pascal

by mickelsp on Oct 8, 2005 6:21 PM PDT reply actions

Red Sox

I think the Red Sox loss and the playoffs more generally help demonstrate the importance of good starting pitching. That's why the A's should be hesitant about trading any of the current starters in the quest for more hitting. It wouldn't do any good to bring in a good bat if all of the sudden the team ends up with a hole in the rotation or bullpen. That doesn't mean the team stands pat, but it does mean that all these proposed trades of Zito, Saarloos, and Duke should be viewed with some caution. I'm sure the Red Sox would gladly have accepted one more solid starter and reliever in exchange for a slightly less powerful batting order.

by SA on Oct 8, 2005 6:34 PM PDT reply actions

Tell that to....

Mulder, Hudson, and Zito.

by BleacherDave on Oct 8, 2005 7:10 PM PDT up reply actions

Speaking of Durocher

His autobiography, "Nice Guys Finish Last," is a very entertaining baseball read (I need lots of those to sustain me through the offseason!). Though it's out of print, you can still find it through used book sites like Alibris.

It's co-written by the same guy who worked with Bill Veeck on "Veeck -- as in Wreck." Both books are frequently hilarious and full of cool baseball history.

by sarajune13 on Oct 8, 2005 6:38 PM PDT reply actions

Go 'Stros!

by baseballnut020 on Oct 8, 2005 7:17 PM PDT reply actions

go AN astros bandwagon!

now 5-2, bases loaded.

they keep going on and on about the braves rookies. "here's another one, he was just drafted in june! amazing, he gave up two grand slams! and he gives up a base hit here. you gotta hand it to bobby cox..."

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 Oct 8, 2005 7:34 PM PDT up reply actions

this devine fellow is close to tears now

makes me sort of glad we didn't bring up street last season if this guy was the 27th pick this year.

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 Oct 8, 2005 7:37 PM PDT up reply actions

I'm watching.

Stuck at home again.

<barf>

Rookies, rookies, rookies. Blegh.

by Jennifer on Oct 8, 2005 7:52 PM PDT up reply actions

I really like the Astros

Everyone talked about their offense not being good enough, but I think they have enough to win it all. The pitching is outstanding, their bullpen is reliable and Morgan Ensberg is a freaking STUD.

Plus, I'm forced into wanting an NL team to win it all, just to make myself feel better.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Oct 8, 2005 7:34 PM PDT reply actions

exactly

the postseason: when i become an NL fan.

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 Oct 8, 2005 7:38 PM PDT up reply actions

urk

I don't like Clemens. But I don't like how the Braves are supposed to be some anti-Moneyball proof. I guess I'll pull for anyone from the NL unless it's the White Sox, in which case I'll be torn. GO PADRES!

by Apricot on Oct 8, 2005 8:05 PM PDT up reply actions

maybe the astros

can beat the white sox in the world series, but clamens can lose all of his starts. and then have his world series ring stolen at some point. that would be the case in an ideal world.

braves may be anti-moneyball "proof" but white sox are almost as bad: "smart ball" with trading lee for podsednik somehow being a good move.

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 Oct 8, 2005 8:09 PM PDT up reply actions

A(thletic)STROS

my offishal adopted NL team and root-fers.

the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005.

by ak_A on Oct 8, 2005 8:06 PM PDT reply actions

15 games below .500

with no offense. left for dead. yup.

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 Oct 8, 2005 8:10 PM PDT up reply actions

Go 'Stros!

3 more outs please.

by baseballnut020 on Oct 8, 2005 8:07 PM PDT reply actions

over

talk about anti-moneball: i love how it's almost a point of pride that franceur didn't walk until like the end of august.

down two games to one, hudson to make his most important start since the one in boston. stay out of the houston area bars tonight, huddy.

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 Oct 8, 2005 8:16 PM PDT reply actions

Yay!

Astros win!

HOU all the way!

by baseballnut020 on Oct 8, 2005 8:16 PM PDT reply actions

Ewwww

Scioscia is smelling like a rose right now.

Nico, I can honestly say that I've lived my entire life without ever wondering, "How does Mike Scoscia smell right now?"

I blame you for the brain cells now dedicated to answering that question.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on Oct 8, 2005 10:04 PM PDT reply actions

No, no, you misunderstood:

Cindi wrote that sentence. It was supposed to read, "Scioscia is smelling, like, a rose." Damn grammarcheck never catches these things.

Nico

by Nico on Oct 8, 2005 10:43 PM PDT up reply actions

another dumb Torre move

<<The Yankees also will stick with their original rotation because they have no option. There is no possibility of starting Mussina in Game 4 because the veteran stayed in California after the first two games so that he would be well-rested (at the least) if needed for a fifth game back there. Sheesh, maybe Costanza is back with the Yankees. <p> Leaving Mussina in California was a case of way over-thinking the situation and pampering the starting pitcher. It's not as if Mussina was going to have to walk to and from California. He could easily have flown back to New York with the team and then returned to Anaheim on Saturday in plenty of time for a spa treatment. Instead, the Yankees limited their options, thereby forcing them to start a pitcher with no postseason experience instead of someone who has pitched 20 postseason games.>>

by vk on Oct 9, 2005 9:49 AM PDT reply actions

I agree with you on this one

you need all your players with you

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 9:51 AM PDT up reply actions

so why didn't they simply get Mussina

on a plane back to NY as soon as it was clear that Saturday's game would be postponed?

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 9:53 AM PDT up reply actions

Costanza?

pause, think, wonder....OH YEAH...george! LOL!

the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005.

by ak_A on Oct 9, 2005 11:34 AM PDT up reply actions

This is from an ESPN article?

Not to be overpicky or whatever, but if I hadn't read that article earlier, I would've thought that these were your words. You might want to give a link or a credit, that's all.

And I DO agree. Leaving Mussina in California?? Colon came to NY with the team but left Saturday night. That still gives him plenty of rest. I can't imagine why in the hell Torre et all would do this.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Oct 9, 2005 12:15 PM PDT up reply actions

Maybe they still think

Chacon and Mussina is a better option than Mussina and Wang. "Who pitches" is a lot more important than "who pitches which game," when you need to win both anyway.

Nico

by Nico on Oct 9, 2005 10:04 AM PDT reply actions

Wang looked good in game 2

Look at it this way, who do they have in back of Chacon today? Wang on short rest? If they went with Mussina today, they'd have Chacon in back of him today and a fully rested Wang tomorrow. Scioscia's in a different position, so starting Washburn makes sense. He's got Colon AND Lackey ready for tomorrow no matter what happens.

by vk on Oct 9, 2005 11:28 AM PDT reply actions

<snicker>

Not to sound like a 14-year old, but I kind of chuckled at this sentence:
If they went with Mussina today, they'd have Chacon in back of him today and a fully rested Wang tomorrow.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 12:37 PM PDT up reply actions

Huddy kicking ass on short rest.

:(

That never worked when he was with the A's.

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 12:43 PM PDT reply actions

<sob>

"How much room do I have to cover out here?" -- Kotsay

by Sharon on Oct 9, 2005 12:49 PM PDT up reply actions

That's okay

He's getting the kind of bullpen support he usually got in Oakland.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions

He can still get the W.

It's not a freshie yet.

"How much room do I have to cover out here?" -- Kotsay

by Sharon on Oct 9, 2005 1:16 PM PDT up reply actions

Holy crap

Berkman just hit a grand slam off Farnsworth to make it 6-5, Braves, in the 8th... whatta game!

by OaktownTribesman on Oct 9, 2005 1:01 PM PDT reply actions

thanks for the update

I don't have cable so I can't watch. but I will be watching the Yanks-Angels game.

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 1:02 PM PDT up reply actions

Poor Huddy!

Poor guy is cursed or something!

<sobs>

"We play our best ball when we're goofing around and having a good time" ~Bobby Crosby

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:12 PM PDT up reply actions

Now it's a freshie.

"How much room do I have to cover out here?" -- Kotsay

by Sharon on Oct 9, 2005 1:24 PM PDT reply actions

BAH!!

"We play our best ball when we're goofing around and having a good time" ~Bobby Crosby

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:26 PM PDT up reply actions

Unbelievable.

At this point, you have to wonder if Huddy could have ANY worse luck. Hand cramps, obliques, control, bullpens. Ick.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 1:29 PM PDT up reply actions

OMG

another freshie for huddy! i can not believe the braves kept farnsworth in there!! i can't believe they blew a 5 run lead!

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 1:24 PM PDT reply actions

Ahh the drama

I love a good baseball game!!

"I was the ugliest girl I've ever seen." - Noah Lowry

by Melody on Oct 9, 2005 1:27 PM PDT reply actions

Yeah me too...

But why did it have to be like this on Huddy's game?

"We play our best ball when we're goofing around and having a good time" ~Bobby Crosby

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:28 PM PDT up reply actions

sigh

poor huddy. i bet zito's text messaging him like crazy right now.

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 1:36 PM PDT up reply actions

This game is AMAZING

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:33 PM PDT reply actions

now I have the mlb.com feed on

what a game!

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 1:39 PM PDT reply actions

Huddy was also 2-4

with a double. Tough ND, a freshie indeed.

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 1:41 PM PDT reply actions

It has to be said....

Umps doing an unREAL job today.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:43 PM PDT reply actions

where we these umps all season?

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 1:44 PM PDT up reply actions

No freakin' kidding!

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:49 PM PDT up reply actions

* where WERE

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions

Just like that they blew a call

You jinx them!

by Ktulu on Oct 9, 2005 1:56 PM PDT up reply actions

this braves/ astros game

is the best postseason game of the season so far. such much drama! i love it!

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 1:43 PM PDT reply actions

The fans are unbelieveable too :)

"I was the ugliest girl I've ever seen." - Noah Lowry

by Melody on Oct 9, 2005 1:49 PM PDT up reply actions

Yeah...

...how many fans would respect the umps' decision calling the "HR" foul and moving on without booing?

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions

the billboards are TOP NOTCH!

just getting into the spirit.

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions

wow, even the tv commercials are better!

never mind, same old commercials...

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:05 PM PDT up reply actions

< hugs >

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 1:49 PM PDT reply actions

Amazing game!!

by Ktulu on Oct 9, 2005 1:49 PM PDT reply actions

Tough break for Huddy

But I must agree. This is one heck of a game! And check out how cool everyone is, even when contesting calls, considering how much this game means.

by gawker on Oct 9, 2005 1:54 PM PDT reply actions

Yeah, INCLUDING the fans.

Sorry, no Hudson sympathy here. Remember his press conference where he said he was glad that he was on another team, one that would give him run support and not blow bullpen leads?

Yeah. How 'bout those Braves?

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:55 PM PDT up reply actions

when was that?

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 2:11 PM PDT up reply actions

or when he said

the a's never accomplished anything while he was here.

or the hundreds of negative comments in aces...

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions

those were before the trade

I haven't read or heard once since the trade where Huddy said he was glad to be traded to a team that wouldn't blow his games.

That being said, I'm neither deifying nor panning Huddy. I think it made sense to trade him, and am only sorry that the A's didn't get anyone for Huddy who helped them in 2005.

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 2:16 PM PDT up reply actions

that pisses me off more

stupid cruz, thomas, and injured meyer.

but hey, the a's just can't afford to bring in shut down relievers like danny kolb to get huddy wins...

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:20 PM PDT up reply actions

Furcal shows how distracting...

...a basestealer can be.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:57 PM PDT reply actions

This is seriously one of the best games EVER

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 1:58 PM PDT reply actions

holy cow

ANOTHER extremely close call!

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 1:59 PM PDT reply actions

first great game of the playoffs

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:00 PM PDT reply actions

AKH! Cable TV's on the fritz!

What's going on?!

by gawker on Oct 9, 2005 2:00 PM PDT reply actions

it's an alien invasion!

they just blew a hole through clemens guts. i think they're scrambling the cable as part of their plan to take over...

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:03 PM PDT up reply actions

no, but that's the only thing that could

make this game better.

astros are up.

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:06 PM PDT up reply actions

sheez "best game Ever"

and i just get around to tuning in. just my luck (as if I need to watch more tv)

the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005.

by ak_A on Oct 9, 2005 2:06 PM PDT reply actions

clemens warming up?

now i'm really conflicted, i want the astros to win but i don't want clemens to get any of the glory.

someone hit a walkoff right here!

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:07 PM PDT reply actions

talk about manager moves

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 2:11 PM PDT up reply actions

AAHH!

I had to leave! Is it over? What's the score?

<thud>

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 2:08 PM PDT reply actions

6-6

Bottom 11th
bases empty
two outs

"How much room do I have to cover out here?" -- Kotsay

by Sharon on Oct 9, 2005 2:10 PM PDT up reply actions

Thanks.

Poor Huddy.

<sob>

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 2:12 PM PDT up reply actions

Lots of freshies.

"How much room do I have to cover out here?" -- Kotsay

by Sharon on Oct 9, 2005 2:13 PM PDT up reply actions

more pitching moves: Lackey starting today

supposedly Washburn has a sore throat...

http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20051009&content_id=1244008& ;vkey=ps2005news&fext=.jsp

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 2:19 PM PDT reply actions

What a baby.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 2:20 PM PDT up reply actions

sore throat??

what does that have to do with pitching?

can't scoscia handle the bitching at the ump duties by himself?

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:21 PM PDT up reply actions

I'm just waiting

for Eric Milton to the hit the DL with a strained neck from craning to watch all those home runs.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:31 PM PDT up reply actions

Those fans have been standing...

...a Looooooooooooooooooooooooooong time.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 2:21 PM PDT reply actions

Maybe they

really, really have to pee.

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on Oct 9, 2005 4:32 PM PDT up reply actions

Explanation

Sorr for being an idiot, but what is the origin and exact meaning of the term "freshie?"

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:24 PM PDT reply actions

i thought you were internet savvy sal

just visit the official site:
http://freshie.com/

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:25 PM PDT up reply actions

<rolls eyes>

You're a big frikkin' help.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:30 PM PDT up reply actions

pretty ominous

i don't want to be caught off guard when it comes...

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:33 PM PDT up reply actions

No kidding

What was the Simpsons episode with the ventriloquist that blew Krusty out of the water? "Gabbo is coming"

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:36 PM PDT up reply actions

DUDE

i wrote a whole "gabbo" comparison in my previous post, then deleted it.

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:39 PM PDT up reply actions

DUDE

Why'd you do that? What were you comparing it to?

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:40 PM PDT up reply actions

to the freshie thing

"freshie is coming...just like gabbo."

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:45 PM PDT up reply actions

Oh

I thought you were talking about earlier. It's not that coincidental, since I'm monitoring all your keystrokes from the east coast. I probably subconsciouly remembered the Gabbo thing from my stalking activities.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions

so there's no camera

hidden in that blinking smoke detector above my desk?

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:51 PM PDT up reply actions

I'm not giving away all my secrets.

By the way, you should really wash your hands after using the toilet.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:52 PM PDT up reply actions

the text message article

I think it was an Urban article in ESPN the Mag.

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 2:29 PM PDT up reply actions

Ah

Never read that one. Not up with the current literature.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:30 PM PDT up reply actions

wow

nice job by the 'stros bullpen!!

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 2:37 PM PDT reply actions

I hate that hill.

I do like the Braves, and I really like Farnsworth, so I am sad. But damn... those 'Stros are one hell of a team.

This game is insane.

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 2:42 PM PDT reply actions

And what the heck

is a flagpole doing in the middle of a ballfield?

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:49 PM PDT up reply actions

Ha ha

That's what you get for having big feet.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:53 PM PDT reply actions

Suicide squeeze...anyone?

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 2:54 PM PDT reply actions

i hate to say it, but

bring in clemens right here. get the K.

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:55 PM PDT reply actions

McCann took him deep in Game 2.

Fearing Mecir since 2000.

by salb918 on Oct 9, 2005 2:57 PM PDT up reply actions

or the "L". Either way.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 2:57 PM PDT up reply actions

hah, good point

that's a win-win situation

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:59 PM PDT up reply actions

K

that's why i'm not the manager.

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 Oct 9, 2005 2:58 PM PDT up reply actions

clemens pinch-hitting!

this game is insane!

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 3:23 PM PDT reply actions

clemens

hey, his 2005 OBP is better than thomas and ginter. about the same as melhuse. and almost as good as payton and byrnes.

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 Oct 9, 2005 3:28 PM PDT up reply actions

sorry to depress you with those numbers

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 Oct 9, 2005 3:32 PM PDT up reply actions

< sigh >

that is pretty depressing.

but clemens also probably saw more at-bats than ginter and melhuse.

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 3:37 PM PDT up reply actions

actually...

clemens .281 obp, 58 ab, 31 g

thomas .255 obp, 46 ab, 30 g
ginter .234 obp, 137 ab, 51 g
melhuse .284 obp, 97 ab, 39 g

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 Oct 9, 2005 3:46 PM PDT up reply actions

whoa

ginter had 137 ab's?!

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions

ginter

should be shot immediately.

scutaro .310 obp, 381 abs (remember all the talk in april/may about how much more patient he was this year than last?)

payton .302, 275 (with a's)

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 Oct 9, 2005 3:53 PM PDT up reply actions

I'd go for the double steal right now

COME ON, NOTHING TO LOSE!!

"I was the ugliest girl I've ever seen." - Noah Lowry

by Melody on Oct 9, 2005 3:27 PM PDT reply actions

A game for the ages...this one.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 3:29 PM PDT reply actions

while I'm neither an Astros nor Braves fan

I must pay tribute to both teams. This is a game to treasure...

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 3:33 PM PDT reply actions

clemens v franco

what year is this?

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 Oct 9, 2005 3:34 PM PDT reply actions

Seriously.

That... is really strange to see.

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 3:53 PM PDT up reply actions

if I could pick

Clemens gives up go-ahead run. Astros come back to pull it out in bottom of inning.

I usually don't get what I want...

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 3:34 PM PDT reply actions

history is made

this game is officially the longest postseason game ever.

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 3:43 PM PDT reply actions

and the most annoying

i have work to do!

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 Oct 9, 2005 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions

yeah, me too

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions

haha

same here! i wanted to finish some errands before the yankees/ angels game but i haven't done anything because i want to see the outcome of this game!

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions

This game is crazy.

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 3:47 PM PDT reply actions

This is insane

I parked the car at the movie theater---it was the end of the eighth inning. Over two hours later---I am absolutely shocked to turn the car on and still be hearing a game! I thought it was a highlight or something.

This is crazy, I feel bad for Hudson.

You know the Cards are sitting back and licking their chops.

by Alien @ Athletics Nation on Oct 9, 2005 3:50 PM PDT reply actions

Did you see "Two for the Money?"

GREAT GREAT MOVIE!!!

Something for everyone.

Mmmmmm...mmmmathew. :)

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 3:58 PM PDT up reply actions

no, I saw

"Capote". Which was very good. I love Philip Seymour Hoffman. Not as cute as Matthew McConaughey (sp?), but still adorable.

by Alien @ Athletics Nation on Oct 9, 2005 8:00 PM PDT up reply actions

Mmm, Huston Street refence.

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 3:59 PM PDT reply actions

Did they say Hudson Street?

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 3:59 PM PDT reply actions

He did and was corrected.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions

You think the announcers...

...would be used to saying "Houston" by now. It is the 18th inning in Houston.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions

lol

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions

I heard that and did a doubletake.

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions

holy toledo.

what the HELL is going on?

*Don't tell the Raiders, either. Just leave Mt Davis at the site, with a note: "We believe this is yours, Al. Enjoy! - AN"* - calgbear

by Jjjsixsix on Oct 9, 2005 3:59 PM PDT reply actions

Woo hoo!

Some Huston Street love in the 17th!

"May be the favorite for the Rookie of the Year"

YEAH, BABY!!!

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 3:59 PM PDT reply actions

Ugh

His name is HUSTON Street, not HUDSON Street, thanks. At least you still think he's the ROY.

"I was the ugliest girl I've ever seen." - Noah Lowry

by Melody on Oct 9, 2005 3:59 PM PDT reply actions

Haha!!

I totally yelled at the TV when they said that! At least they recovered by saying he is probably the AL ROY favorite!

"We play our best ball when we're goofing around and having a good time" ~Bobby Crosby

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:03 PM PDT up reply actions

Crazy stats

According to the guy at the SportsBlog affiliate site for the Astros:

"...the eight Houston Astro relievers have now gone 12-2/3 innings while giving up one run.

And the Braves have no hit the Astros since the eleventh."

Though I admire the Astros for being aggressive in trying to win the game earlier, the Braves' offense is looking a lot stronger because most of the starters are still in the game. Fewer double-switching for them Braves.

The Astros have been much more aggressive in following the original subject of this thread: use your pitchers today.
--
Pascal

by mickelsp on Oct 9, 2005 4:00 PM PDT reply actions

They're screwed if Clemens runs into trouble

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:01 PM PDT up reply actions

Unfortunately for the Braves,

that's a huge 'if'.

Over/under on a Clemens HR to end the game?

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions

I hope they make it to 20 innings.

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 4:00 PM PDT reply actions

how bout 30?

how bout... the length of the sunday night football game?!

*Don't tell the Raiders, either. Just leave Mt Davis at the site, with a note: "We believe this is yours, Al. Enjoy! - AN"* - calgbear

by Jjjsixsix on Oct 9, 2005 4:03 PM PDT up reply actions

LOL!

I like 30... or at least, let them play until the end of the Angels/Yankees game!

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 4:05 PM PDT up reply actions

Are they out of bench players yet?

I love games like this. It forces a manager to do interesting things. LOVE it.

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 4:06 PM PDT up reply actions

They say it's Clemens or bust...

How about throwing Clemens out there at first base, and make one of the position players pitch? :D

"I was the ugliest girl I've ever seen." - Noah Lowry

by Melody on Oct 9, 2005 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions

Atlanta has Estrada,

Huston is out.

*Don't tell the Raiders, either. Just leave Mt Davis at the site, with a note: "We believe this is yours, Al. Enjoy! - AN"* - calgbear

by Jjjsixsix on Oct 9, 2005 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions

huston has been out

for about a week now

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 Oct 9, 2005 4:11 PM PDT up reply actions

Houston could have Pettite fly back

from Atlanta to pitch, and the game would STILL be going on.

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions

It's only forever

it's not long at all.

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 4:03 PM PDT reply actions

Weird to think about

I went to church this morning, left the game in the 3rd. Came out in the 7th, and that was almost four hours ago.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:05 PM PDT reply actions

I can't even picture what it'd be like

to be at a game that long... or play a game that long... Wow. I've been to a lot of lengthy extra inning games, but not NEARLY this long!

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 4:09 PM PDT reply actions

I was at the Met-Giants game

that lasted 23 innings. it was the second game of a twi-night double header. But being a child I was forced to leave at around the 15th inning.

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions

I think this game would've been

over with HOURS ago if it was AL.

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 4:09 PM PDT reply actions

Why are they waving white flags?

is Houston trying to surrender?

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:11 PM PDT reply actions

well.

This game is AMAZING (none / 0)

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.
by baseballgirl on Sun Oct 09, 2005 at 01:33:59 PM PST
[ Reply to This ]

If it was amazing almost three hours ago, what is it now?

*Don't tell the Raiders, either. Just leave Mt Davis at the site, with a note: "We believe this is yours, Al. Enjoy! - AN"* - calgbear

by Jjjsixsix on Oct 9, 2005 4:14 PM PDT reply actions

game over!

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 Oct 9, 2005 4:15 PM PDT reply actions

Wow

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 4:16 PM PDT reply actions

WOW

what a hell of a game!!! i change my mind. GO ASTROS! talk about a scrappy team!

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 4:17 PM PDT reply actions

I love seeing men all affectionate

what a beautiful ending :(

"I was the ugliest girl I've ever seen." - Noah Lowry

by Melody on Oct 9, 2005 4:22 PM PDT up reply actions

it was a GREAT ending

gave me the warm fuzzies! =)

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 4:23 PM PDT up reply actions

Wow.

is that the series?

Oops, gog question wrong.

Not only a walk-off, but in the 19th inning.

Wow.

*Don't tell the Raiders, either. Just leave Mt Davis at the site, with a note: "We believe this is yours, Al. Enjoy! - AN"* - calgbear

by Jjjsixsix on Oct 9, 2005 4:17 PM PDT reply actions

err 18th.

because i really CAN type.

*Don't tell the Raiders, either. Just leave Mt Davis at the site, with a note: "We believe this is yours, Al. Enjoy! - AN"* - calgbear

by Jjjsixsix on Oct 9, 2005 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions

wow...unbelievable

I salute both teams!!!

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 4:17 PM PDT reply actions

wasn't there once discussion

last winter of trading Byrnes for Chris Burke?

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 4:18 PM PDT reply actions

at last

at least Clemens didn't hit the big dinger.

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 4:19 PM PDT reply actions

he did get the W

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions

Again...

WOW

by Jennifer on Oct 9, 2005 4:19 PM PDT reply actions

Wow, wow, wow, wow...and...wow.

Glad I watched that game.

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:19 PM PDT reply actions

Braves left 18 RISP

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 4:20 PM PDT reply actions

Poor Pettitte!

He has to fly back to party with his peeps!

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:20 PM PDT reply actions

cannot resist the winexp report

To my extreme disgust, Baby Winexp picks the stars of the game:

Clemens (blah), Wheeler and Brower for their lights out pitching with the game on the line.

TOP 10 PLAYS

October 9, 2005. Bot 9.2. R:-1. B:. B. Ausmus homered to deep center (0.549, +0.509) October 9, 2005. Bot18.1. R: 0. B:. C. Burke homered to deep left (1.000, +0.402) October 9, 2005. Top 3.2. R: 0. B:123. A. LaRoche homered to deep right center, M. Giles, C. Jones and A. Jones scored (0.825, +0.308) October 9, 2005. Bot 8.1. R:-5. B:123. L. Berkman homered to deep left, E. Bruntlett, C. Biggio and L. Scott scored (0.233, +0.233) October 9, 2005. Bot15.1. R: 0. B:12. M. Ensberg grounded into double play shortstop to second to first, C. Burke out at second (0.518, -0.210) October 9, 2005. Top14.2. R: 0. B:123. P. Orr grounded into fielder's choice, J. Franco out at third (0.351, -0.186) October 9, 2005. Top14.1. R: 0. B:123. B. McCann struck out swinging (0.537, -0.162) October 9, 2005. Top11.2. R: 0. B:23. J. Franco grounded out to second (0.351, -0.149) October 9, 2005. Top10.1. R: 0. B:. R. Langerhans doubled to right (0.571, +0.146) October 9, 2005. Top17.1. R: 0. B:. B. Jordan doubled to right center (0.571, +0.146)

Date Team Name WXC Events

October 9, 2005 HOU R. Clemens* +0.445 10 October 9, 2005 HOU D. Wheeler* +0.393 13 October 9, 2005 HOU C. Burke +0.376 4 October 9, 2005 HOU B. Ausmus +0.352 7 October 9, 2005 HOU B. Lidge* +0.262 13 October 9, 2005 HOU L. Berkman +0.258 5 October 9, 2005 HOU C. Qualls* +0.169 7 October 9, 2005 HOU R. Springer* +0.026 8 October 9, 2005 HOU M. Lamb +0.021 4 October 9, 2005 HOU O. Palmeiro +0.000 1 October 9, 2005 HOU B. Backe** -0.003 1 October 9, 2005 HOU R. Chavez -0.019 2 October 9, 2005 HOU W. Rodriguez* -0.029 4 October 9, 2005 HOU M. Gallo* -0.030 4 October 9, 2005 HOU A. Everett -0.034 3 October 9, 2005 HOU Vizcaino Error -0.052 1 October 9, 2005 HOU R. Clemens** -0.062 2 October 9, 2005 HOU W. Taveras -0.070 3 October 9, 2005 HOU L. Scott -0.080 3 October 9, 2005 HOU J. Bagwell -0.113 1 October 9, 2005 HOU E. Bruntlett -0.114 6 October 9, 2005 HOU J. Vizcaino -0.195 4 October 9, 2005 HOU C. Biggio -0.197 8 October 9, 2005 HOU B. Backe* -0.232 23 October 9, 2005 HOU J. Lane -0.287 7 October 9, 2005 HOU M. Ensberg -0.309 7

Date Team Name WXC Events

October 9, 2005 ATL J. Brower* +0.393 10 October 9, 2005 ATL R. Langerhans +0.304 9 October 9, 2005 ATL A. LaRoche +0.298 4 October 9, 2005 ATL C. Reitsma* +0.262 9 October 9, 2005 ATL J. Thomson* +0.262 7 October 9, 2005 ATL T. Hudson* +0.198 27 October 9, 2005 ATL B. Jordan +0.146 1 October 9, 2005 ATL T. Hudson** +0.022 5 October 9, 2005 ATL R. Furcal -0.026 11 October 9, 2005 ATL A. Jones -0.034 8 October 9, 2005 ATL K. Johnson -0.122 1 October 9, 2005 ATL W. Betemit -0.122 1 October 9, 2005 ATL C. Jones -0.135 10 October 9, 2005 ATL P. Orr -0.186 1 October 9, 2005 ATL J. Franco -0.196 5 October 9, 2005 ATL J. Francoeur -0.212 9 October 9, 2005 ATL J. Devine* -0.220 5 October 9, 2005 ATL M. Giles -0.264 9 October 9, 2005 ATL K. Farnsworth* -0.419 10 October 9, 2005 ATL B. McCann -0.477 8

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 4:21 PM PDT reply actions

hudson

was only 11th most important?

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 Oct 9, 2005 4:25 PM PDT up reply actions

baby winexp loooves

the scoreless pitching in tight games. Huddy pitched well, but mostly with a huge lead, so the hitters got most of the credit during that stretch.

Remember, she's trying to calculate who deserves credit for the victory, NOT how well people played. Subtle difference.

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions

Baby Winexp is found where?

Does a website track the WinExp. for games, or is it available as software? (freeware/shareware?) If it's software, do you have to enter the result of each event, or is there a connection with a MLB database that updates as the games are in progress?

Also, are all Win Expectancy parsers made equal? That is, would another application based on a different database come up with a significantly different view of the importance of in-game events?

by Qwerty75 on Oct 9, 2005 5:26 PM PDT up reply actions

don't get me started

It's my homegrown software which parses game play-by-play and turns it into a winexp analysis. You can get a similar result by hand using a spreadsheet and entering stuff yourself. I think Lookout Landing does it this way.

I used historical data because it was quicker. The spreadsheet uses a mathematical model. In practical terms, the results are very similar, perhaps off by .01 per play at most. If you Search on AN for winexp, you can see what I've already written about it. I plan to eventually do a retrospective on this year (and possibly the last few A's years). But I'm busy writing stuff for work and working on (shh) a second season of Diego adventures.

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 5:56 PM PDT up reply actions

I LOVE THE POST SEASON!!!

This is why I watch the post season even after the A's are out! This game was great. I feel bad for Huddy, but the Astros totally deserved that win!! This game was awesome!!

"We play our best ball when we're goofing around and having a good time" ~Bobby Crosby

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:23 PM PDT reply actions

i wish the A's were in the postseason

< sigh >

"you know it's way cooler to be an A's fan" - billy beane to larry krueger

by gotgreen on Oct 9, 2005 4:27 PM PDT reply actions

is it time for Angels-Yankees?

I've gotten almost squat's worth of work done today!

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 4:28 PM PDT reply actions

In 40 Minutes

"We play our best ball when we're goofing around and having a good time" ~Bobby Crosby

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Oct 9, 2005 4:35 PM PDT up reply actions

40 minutes of work, then

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 4:37 PM PDT up reply actions

As posted on another message board:

"Haha, every time Clemens gets shelled he shows up a few days later and turns in an epic performance. You know after each loss he stays up at night writing a giant plan entitled 'How to remind the whole world that I am the f#%@ing man.'"

"I was the ugliest girl I've ever seen." - Noah Lowry

by Melody on Oct 9, 2005 4:32 PM PDT reply actions

Oh man. That is an AMAZING comment.

And true.

"Baseball fans are junkies, and their heroin is the statistic." -Robert S. Wieder

by Kyli on Oct 9, 2005 11:04 PM PDT up reply actions

Like 1986?

Check out how similar this game is to 1986 NLCS Game 6:
http://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/B10150HOU1986.htm

Only huge difference is that 5 fewer pitchers were used in the 1986 game and no Mets pitcher pitched less than 3 innings then.
--
Pascal

by mickelsp on Oct 9, 2005 4:33 PM PDT reply actions

one of my all time favorite games!!!

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 4:34 PM PDT up reply actions

that was a classic

I remember my long trek home from school (in NYC) that late that day. I was sure I'd miss the game, so I was getting updates every stop of the way. It was basically Game 7... everyone knew the Mets could not hit Mike Scott the next day.

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 4:39 PM PDT up reply actions

Just think...

how similar the A's are to the Astros. We almost had two teams come from 15 down to get to the post season and they, like the A's, have a sporatic offense, a good starting staff with a good bullpen and defense. Its nice to see the Astros make it to the next round. I have been and will be rooting for them...in place of the A's.

by ChickenStanley on Oct 9, 2005 4:45 PM PDT reply actions

Braves

I think it's safe to say that there's something about the Braves that makes them extremely choke-prone in the post-season. After what, 14 years it's safe to say sample size is large enough to say they're not particularly good at winning playoff games. Maybe something about Cox's managerial style? I was reading over on a Braves message board that Cox does things like trust his bullpen, let all his players get playing times, etc, that do wonders in the regular season, but he doesn't seem to know that in the playoffs, it's win or go home. Like how he keeps certain relievers in way too long or brings in guys who have been shaky recently. Stuff that builds confidence and rests your top players over 162 games, but only lead to quick self-destruction in a short series.

by OaktownTribesman on Oct 9, 2005 4:56 PM PDT reply actions

You really can't blame him

His pitching staff is majorly unreliable and that bullpen is AWFUL. It has been pretty much all year. You have to think your closer can handle a 5 run lead, and unfortunately his closer choked MASSIVELY. Not his fault.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Oct 9, 2005 4:59 PM PDT up reply actions

I personally chalk it up to a big fluke.

Without having a lot of data near me, I see that as of 2000: (from http://www.baseballlibrary.com/baseballlibrary/features/postseason/braves.stm)

2001 Houston Astros Div. Series W, 3-0 2000 St. Louis Cardinals Div. Series L, 0-3 1999 New York Yankees World Series L, 0-4 1999 New York Mets NLCS W, 4-2 1999 Houston Astros Div. Series W, 3-1 1998 San Diego Padres NLCS L, 2-4 1998 Chicago Cubs Div. Series W, 3-0 1997 Florida Marlins NLCS L, 2-4 1997 Houston Astros Div. Series W, 3-0 1996 New York Yankees World Series L, 2-4 1996 St. Louis Cardinals NLCS W, 4-3 1996 Los Angeles Dodgers Div. Series W, 3-0 1995 Cleveland Indians World Series W, 4-2 1995 Cincinnati Reds NLCS W, 4-0 1995 Colorado Rockies Div. Series W, 3-1 1993 Philadelphia Phillies NLCS L, 2-4 1992 Toronto Blue Jays World Series L, 2-4 1992 Pittsburgh Pirates NLCS W, 4-3 1991 Minnesota Twins World Series L, 3-4 1991 Pittsburgh Pirates NLCS W, 4-3

That gives a post-season record of 55-46, which is pretty good.

BUT since everyone piles on the A's for their playoff implosions, let me instead write:

The Braves have showed that smartball and smallball can ONLY GET YOU SO FAR. Sure it can get you to the playoffs, and sometimes you luck out and get to the WS, but you ALMOST ALWAYS CHOKE. Their scouting strategies and organizational philosophies ONLY WORK UP TILL THEY CHOKE IN THE PLAYOFFS.

Moo ha ha, that felt good.

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 5:51 PM PDT up reply actions

sorry

that was up through 2001 from http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/baseball/mlb/2001/postseason/news/2001/10/07/braves_history/

by Apricot on Oct 9, 2005 5:52 PM PDT up reply actions

rebuttal

"After what, 14 years it's safe to say sample size is large enough to say they're not particularly good at winning playoff games."

This would be true if the Braves consistently lost playoff series during that time. But as a matter of fact, the Braves have won almost as many playoff series as they have lost (12 series wins, 13 series losses).

If anything, they have LATELY started to fall into a disturbingly A's-like trend of losing early in the playoffs--in the last six years, they have won ONE playoff series, and have lost 4 straight NLDS starting 2002. But in the preceding nine seasons (1991-1999, and remember no playoffs in 1994) the Braves won 11 playoff series and lost only seven. They were at that point 5-0 in NLDS (1995-1999), 5-3 in NLCS and 1-4 in World Series. Way too much success to indicate "choking."

by rubin sierra on Oct 9, 2005 8:14 PM PDT up reply actions

This is why the Astros are AWESOME

I've been saying since the end of the season that if it can't be the A's, I'll actually happily root for the Astros. Great pitching performances are awesome to watch.

I don't love the Rocket, but man he must have been PISSED with his game 2 performance because he came back with some nasty attitude. That was a really, really great show all around from Houston.

Chris Burke? Aaron Boone? WHO?

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Oct 9, 2005 4:57 PM PDT reply actions

Freaking epic

by dchu on Oct 9, 2005 5:34 PM PDT reply actions

The Astros = the Anti - A's

They win when it matters and actually advance out of the first round.

by Pucking Insane on Oct 9, 2005 5:39 PM PDT reply actions

last year was only the first time

that they advanced out of the first round

by OaklandSi on Oct 9, 2005 5:46 PM PDT up reply actions

Feeling bad for Joey Devine

The kid was in college when this season started, and now all of a sudden he's the pitcher who gave up 2 grand slams in his first 2 appearances and the pitcher who lost this game. Poor kid. :(

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Oct 9, 2005 5:49 PM PDT reply actions

<ashamed look>

I'm half-rooting for the Yankees, mostly due to the Los Angeles news on Friday night. They interviewed Angel "fans", and they were using words like "dynasty" and "historic". I'm like, okay, I hate the Yankees and their fans, but they have 26 World Championships. You have one. You also can't name a player on your team who was there before 2002. So...um...yeah.

Go injuries! And then the White Sox! And then the NL team!

Best Coliseum promotion of the year? 2005 Oakland A's baseball.

by baseballgirl on Oct 9, 2005 5:56 PM PDT reply actions