Mixed Emotions, But We'll Take the Win!

Great win

Offense was frustrating at times, but everything else was clicking.

Loaiza was spectacular. If he pitches anywhere like this for the next few months, we won't miss Harden quite so much.

Street is lights-out again. Suddenly, he's got something like 22K to 3BB on the season. Few bad outings in April, since then, he's been spectacular.

I watched the game, and for whatever reason, I'm not worried about Crosby. He stung his hand, got a hit, and came out with a three run lead in the 9th. Is that so wrong? I'm guessing he'll be in the lineup tomorrow.

by Crosbino on Jun 8, 2006 11:50 AM PDT reply actions

I'll take it.

I'm all cried-out for the time being, anyway...

Putting the "fun" in "perfunctory"

by Poppy on Jun 8, 2006 11:51 AM PDT reply actions

moi aussi

The series' the thing.

"the poop stain on the collective AN pantalones." -ohad

by ArakSOT on Jun 8, 2006 11:53 AM PDT up reply actions

Moises Alou?

"The sun don't shine on the same dog's ass all the time."

-Catfish Hunter

by kaweahkaweah on Jun 8, 2006 11:55 AM PDT up reply actions

I blame the Harden "thing" on you.

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 11:59 AM PDT up reply actions

ME!?!?

What did I do? There's a new guy who looks just like me. Half the lies they tell about me aren't true!

"the poop stain on the collective AN pantalones." -ohad

by ArakSOT on Jun 8, 2006 12:06 PM PDT up reply actions

you're from Down Under?

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 12:08 PM PDT up reply actions

In all fairness

Loaiza was great today against a formidable offense, and gave us a much-needed win heading into NY. But he has pitched like crap all too recently, and that's why I want to see another 2 or 3 quality starts before I will officially get off his back.

In the meantime, I'll settle for saying: Nice job, A's, let's win some in the Big Apple.

Okay, so they won. What next?

by Chavinator on Jun 8, 2006 11:56 AM PDT reply actions

But he's almost never been as bad

as he looked at the start of the year. I think your caution is certainly warranted, but he's also been around for a while and been a decent pitcher most of the time. I think there was clearly something wrong with him, and I hope that now it's fixed and he can become the dependable pitcher that the front office certainly thought he would be. Granted, I also didn't think he could be as stellar as he was today, but I wouldn't discount his ability to repeat this start. I think he's capable.

I hope that Loaiza can be a 6/7 innning, 3 run type of pitcher. I think that's perfectly within his capabilities, and I would be extremely happy with that. He may start to prove why this signing was just what we needed, with an injured Harden and a struggling Blanton.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Jun 8, 2006 12:12 PM PDT up reply actions

They should just trade Barry

Even if Harden only misses a month or so. The bottom line is winning championships and this team just isn't good enough to do that this year.
Too many injuries, uncertain offense even uncertain pitching (not counting injuries, the pitching is still questionable--Blanton and Loaiza are far from sure things)

If Beane could get the Mets to offer us Milledge for Barry they should do it tomorrow.

by oakfan97 on Jun 8, 2006 12:07 PM PDT reply actions

Don't trade Barry

He is still the most consistent guy we got that can take the mound - and he never gets injured...

Harden = Canadian version of Kerry Wood

The A's need alot of things, but this shouldn't come at the expense of our true Ace. If the A's are going to make any noise - it will be with the pitching leading...and Barry gives us the best chance each fifth day...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 12:11 PM PDT up reply actions

Trading Barry is a white flag

OK, so... unless you seriously think we can fetch a #1 pitcher or a bat big enough to offset the loss of an ace... what good does trading Barry do? If the bottom line is winning championships, Barry gives us our best shot to do so. As good as he is, Rich is injury prone. If we have no Barry, and no Rich... we have this as a rotation:

Haren
Blanton
Loaiza
Saarloos
Halsey

Haren is good, but not a #1. At this point, trading Barry would be asanine.

Stephen Colbert: "Kids who look up to athletes become athletes themselves."
The Word: Or bitter sports journalists.

by JLaff on Jun 8, 2006 12:14 PM PDT up reply actions

Wave the white flag and trade Barry

Do you want another early exit or do you want to start fresh like the marlins and win a championship? This team will come in 3rd in the west; better to trade players with value (Zito)for prospects and play for a championship.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions

without Harden, we lose in the 1st round

Without Z (or an equivalent SP in return), we don't even make the playoffs.

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 12:24 PM PDT up reply actions

So now we're defining success as reaching the

playoffs and losing in the first round? I'd take a few terrible years and then winning it all over reaching the playoffs and losing in the first round with Zito (and he won't re-sign for '07).

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 12:31 PM PDT up reply actions

I just fail to recognize

How trading away one of our true reliable assets guarantees a championship - Switch Milledge for Zito, and we have a worse record right now then we actually have... We would score a few more runs, but we would need those just to stay afloat sans Zito in the rotation.

Regardless of Harden - many of the A's players are performing better right now than a month ago - even two weeks ago.

I think the move Billy should make would be to resign Zito - somehow, someway... He can still be dealt down the road at future deadlines if need be, as pitching is always the most coveted asset come trading deadline - but for the A's to have a chance in October (for this season and beyond) they need Zito...

Not only is he consitently durable, he is one of the leaders and faces of the franchise. He is marketeable, and with a new stadium on the horizon, Beane needs to get this done...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 12:41 PM PDT up reply actions

Beat me to it, monkeyman

The Marlins are a horrible example. Are you suggesting we essentially auction off our team piece-by-piece? Well, uh, not sure if you've noticed, but Z is our Dontrelle. He's the guy who has carried the pitching staff this year.

Stephen Colbert: "Kids who look up to athletes become athletes themselves."
The Word: Or bitter sports journalists.

by JLaff on Jun 8, 2006 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions

Not ready to throw in towel just yet

These A's have the ability to do some damage as is... I wouldn't mind another starter or a some offensive help, but I'm not ready to cash it in yet...

The Marlins have gotten lucky twice, ie. they got hot in the playoffs and rode that out - both years they won they weren't World Series contenders entering the season - but they were fortunate...and because they unloaded their team again doesn't mean their winning a championship in 2-3 years... The A's need to make the playoffs - they have the ability to do it this season...and maybe they will get hot come October... but you never know until you get there...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions

And they had a pitching staff that dominates come

playoff time (hard throwing starters). Our staff (other than harden) lacks anybody who can throw in the mid to upper 90's.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 12:34 PM PDT up reply actions

Um - Haren

And you were proposong to trade Zito for Milledge - and I don't know how that adds any MPH to the pitching staff...maybe they should also trade Street, Swisher, Chavez and Crosby our other commodities to the Marlins so we can get that 2009 World Series Championship Roster over here to Oakland stat...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 12:44 PM PDT up reply actions

I'd trade 4 years of playoff futliity for a

championship all day long.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 12:50 PM PDT up reply actions

I would too...

The problem with that is there is no guarantee of that whatsoever... If the A's made the playoffs four years from now with a different roster, there is no guarantee that their taking home a championship because the Marlins lucked into it twice...

The best opportunity for the A's to win a championship in the next four years is to make the playoffs each year - and then see if a they can go on a run, get on a hot streak at least one of those seasons...

Many teams have had fire sales, unloading talent for prospects - and it never materialized even into a playoff berth, let alone a championship...

Tell me what you would do - who would you trade away, what prospects do you see in return that will be lights out come October a few seasons down the road... That makes it alot harder doesn't it...

The best chance the A's have to win a championship is to continually put themselves in place to make that October run - and setting yourself up for a guaranteed few seasons of mediocrity only ensures that down the road they might have a chance to dance in October if everything goes right...

The A's have a nice core right now, and need to do some accesorizing, they do not need to change outfits...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 1:04 PM PDT up reply actions

I agree that a championship isn't a guarantee,

that being said I can guarantee the A's won't make the '06 playoffs and Zito won't be re-signed. And because of this, I'd like to trade Zito (while his value is high) for prospects who'd help the A's be more of a guarantee to win a championship going forward.

As for most of the core, I see a ton of potential yet little production. I'm not so sure this potential is going to be reached in '06 while we still have Zito.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 1:14 PM PDT up reply actions

Care to wager on that?

I think betting on the A's making this year's playoffs is pretty easy money.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 1:19 PM PDT up reply actions

Damn, easy money? So does that mean you'll give

odds of them NOT making the playoffs?

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions

No.

Clearly, you also think your side of the equation is easy money, so no sense in giving odds.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 1:26 PM PDT up reply actions

I do, although didn't use the term "easy

money". So how about $100 on the A's failing/making the playoffs (I'll take the fail part). We'll exchange paypal accounts at the end of September.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 1:30 PM PDT up reply actions

I can do $50

$100 is too much for me right now.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 1:43 PM PDT up reply actions

You're done. We'll re-connect at the end of

September.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions

witness!

"Don't be an ass!" --Bill King

by batgirl on Jun 8, 2006 1:54 PM PDT up reply actions

bailiff!

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions

Night Court!

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 2:03 PM PDT up reply actions

I'll take Bull for 100 Alex,

Night Court Bailiff

by theblackpearl on Jun 8, 2006 2:16 PM PDT up reply actions

I mean even the Angels

lucked into a championship - and they lacked those fireballers that the Marlins had...

The White Sox don't have any starters that touching triple digits, or even high nineties - the Astros did, and how many WS games did they win?

It's all about firing on all cylinders come October, and the best way to do that is to give yourself the most opportunities to do it... Make the playoffs, and then see what happens...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 1:12 PM PDT up reply actions

White Sox had 3 starters who threw mid-to-low 90's

(Contreras, Garcia, Buehrle), the Angels had Washburn, Lackey and a hard throwing bullpen (Shields, Percival, F-rod).

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 1:21 PM PDT up reply actions

Are sure about that...

These are the scouting reports for the 3 ChiSox pitchers you called out from Stats Inc. via Fox Sports:
"Buehrle succeeds by keeping it simple. He attacks hitters with a low-90s fastball and a plus-plus changeup, working fast and throwing strikes."

"Freddy Garcia thrives on using one of the majors' best collection of quality pitches-a 92-93 MPH fastball, a good two-seamer, a quality changeup and both a curveball and slider-to frustrate hitters."

"Contreras' split-finger pitch is among the best in the majors, but hitters have begun to sit on it. The White Sox want Contreras to re-establish his fastball, which he can throw in the 94-95 MPH range, but Contreras struggles with spotting the pitch."

Not exactly the high-90's stuff that you're talking about...

As for the Angels - Lackey and K-Rod were rookies (K-Rod a september call-up) which all but proves the luck portion involved in winning the series.

I'm not commenting on Washburn - I know he relies on his fastball alot, but High 90's, I think not...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions

I just re-read your comment

And I'm sorry for misinterpreting, I thought you meant high 90's...because the A's have plenty of guys that touch low 90's... Karsay throws mid-to-low 90's...not quite to sure that predicates much success...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 2:01 PM PDT up reply actions

Let's just say power pitchers have more success

in the playoffs than do finesse pitchers. I'd rather have a Clemens/Colon/Beckett/Schilling/Mussina rotation in the World Series than a Zito/Glavine/Maddox/Moyer/Mulder rotation.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 2:39 PM PDT up reply actions

SD Erik

I know it's hard to let go of that dream of the World Series right here right now, as many of us had given the hype and whatnot, but it's just not happening. We're under .500, we've lost our best pitcher, many of our important young players are still underachieving two months into the season, and we're still just as injury prone with regards to guys like Bradley, Thomas, Crosby, Loaiza, etc.

We could get to the playoffs, sure, but like many others I'd much rather trade Zito for some nice pieces towards the 2007 or 2008 Oakland championship team rather than going for broke this year against the odds

by walk off bunt on Jun 8, 2006 3:57 PM PDT up reply actions

You missed my point -

I think the chances of winning the World Series is still a possibility...

Yes - they are under .500, but are still in the divisional race...while missing much more than just the "best" pitcher...

However, if the A's can win the division (great possibility) and get Harden back (as well as Duke, and Kennedy) come September going into October, then why can't they... You need to get to the playoffs to win a championship - and once you're there anything is possible...

Zito, Harden and Haren can all be on there games come October...why can't they ride a hot streak to the championship?

If you think it's not possible this season, then who should they trade Zito for, that is going to be an effective, durable starter that would step into Zito's spot?

I maintain that the key to winning a championship is surviving the long season and earning a playoff berth - from there you need the team to play its best baseball of the season...

If the A's can make the playoffs this season, with the front-end of the rotation healthy and on there game - I would take my chances with this team... Zito, Harden, Haren is formiddable, and capable of matching/surpassing any other teams 1-3, especially if the offense gets any breaks and comes up with some big hits...

The point I am arguing is that trading away the present does not guarantee anything except a longer wait to dance in October - and it definitely does not guarantee a championship down the road...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 5:54 PM PDT up reply actions

I understand that fully well

But my point is that, despite popular belief, it's really not that easy to just make anything happen in the playoffs. The A's as it stands are way outclassed by Chicago, New York, and Boston. In a short series can we pull something off against them? Sure. In a longer series can we muster up enough grit to pull it out? Sure. Can we do that twice in a row, and then beat the best team in the National League? I highly, highly, doubt it.

And no, obviously trading away the present doesn't guarantee a championship down the road, but 1)you're way, way, way overvaluing the present we have and 2)it ensures that we'll be in a much, much better position to win the championship down the road, whereas if we fall short this year (highly likely) it'll be even harder down the road. Unfortunately we don't have a real fantastic farm system right now. There's a lot of question marks in the low minors and the only sure things we can hope to be on the next A's championship team on the roster right now are Chavez, Swisher, Haren, Street, Duchscherer (if he doesn't outprice himself) Crosby (if his offense recovers) and Harden (if he ever stays healthy). Thats 7 guys. Three of which are questionable. Barton would make 8. Everyone else is older with a shorter contract (Kotsay, to an extent Bradley, Thomas, Zito), replaceable (Saarloos, Halsey) or just bad (Scutaro, Kielty). That leaves 17 players to fill out what one would hope would be a championship roster with. We do not, by any stretch of the imagination, have so much as 5 RELIABLE, solid bets in the minors that could be important contributors to that team. Lots of interesting guys with futures far away (Italiano, Lansford, etc.) but nobody we can reliably count on to be a part of what could be a 2009 Athletics championship team. That's why getting one of the older, not likely to return guys (Zito) and turning him into 2 or 3 young guys (Milledge, Brian Bannister, something else) who CAN be reliably counted on to contribute importantly to that 2009 team is crucial for the A's to do to sustain long term relevance.

by walk off bunt on Jun 8, 2006 7:33 PM PDT up reply actions

I actually agree with most of that...

In fact the one thing that I don't agree with is the fact that if the A's can get healthy come Sept-Oct that they will be outclassed by New York, Boston, and the ChiSox... in fact the theam that scares me the most of the bunch is the ChiSox... And that's because I think that is the only team with the front-end (healthy) of the rotation that can match the A's...

Schilling-Beckett-Wakefield

Johnson-Mussina-Wang/Small

I may be completely naive or overly hopeful - But these teams all have there own share of problems/holes in the pitching and offense...

And what's funny about that - is the teram the A's have typically played better has been the ChiSox...

Basically where we disagree is on the ability to make a run in October this season...

Plus I think the dealing of "Z" could be a psychological blow to the team, and can have lasting ramifications that will linger to 2009...

by SD Erik on Jun 9, 2006 11:01 AM PDT up reply actions

goal

gotta set your sights on winning the division before you can win the series.

Besides what makes you think Zito will make the team 'championship' caliber with a handfull of prospects.

I think this team of course has the injuries but is just underperforming. Its not like the talent isnt there already.

Bill Stoneman is about to be offered three seasons of a right-handed version of Vladimir Guerrero - Rev Halofan

by pickinmachine on Jun 8, 2006 12:42 PM PDT up reply actions

Mets aren't that stupid?

Kazmir for Zambrano - Trade made while in a pennant race.

Different GM...Yes. Same Franchise...Yes.

Mets, Phillies, Yankees, WhiteSox, Boston, and (Sleeper) Houston...will all be calling in July.

When July 15th comes around, and the A's are still around .500, you gotta trade Zito. And my gut says that this isn't the year...too many better teams in the AL (White Sox, Boston, NY).

I don't want two-1st Round Draft Choices for Zito, because this team needs to push for a championship before 2010.

Nice Win Today!

COME ON, OAKLAND, COME ON! June 19th - June 21st, 2006 ** Oakland Athletics @ Colorado Rockies **

by Colorado Fan on Jun 8, 2006 12:17 PM PDT up reply actions

adding insult to injury

the AN server appears to be ... umm ... minute-to-minute?

by rubin sierra on Jun 8, 2006 12:09 PM PDT reply actions

Crabcakes ran into it

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 12:10 PM PDT up reply actions

bbg ...

... you're speller today ...

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 12:09 PM PDT reply actions

carroll suggests TJ

Will Carroll of BP:

"Rich Harden is headed back to the DL, now with elbow problems in his pitching arm. Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports is reporting that Harden had an MRI yesterday that showed a sprained ligament, likely the UCL. There's no immediate information from the always cagey A's on the severity, but this is definitely a blow. If Harden needs Tommy John surgery, well, you know that song and dance."

by namos333 on Jun 8, 2006 12:12 PM PDT reply actions

SIGN Barry NOW!!!!

How can Billy think anything else at this point? Barry hasn't missed a start in 7 years. He is worth plenty. Call him on his comments about wanting to stay in Oakland. Sign him now. He won't disappoint.

I am not for giving him up for a prospect--Milledge might turn out great or not. Need I remind you of some great minor leaguers who were major league busts.

We need an ace and Harden will not be that guy until he can go a season without being on the DL more than once.

by oaklandcrazy on Jun 8, 2006 12:13 PM PDT reply actions

totally agree

with you....sign Zito and get rid of Harden, if need be. The kid is constantly injured and he's 23 friggin' years old...something is amiss.

tdwclark

by tdwclark on Jun 8, 2006 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions

You don't get rid of guys

that can be that good that young. I'm sorry that it seems like Harden will never go through a full year, but I still think he's too young, cheap, and ridiculously good to get RID of.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Jun 8, 2006 12:29 PM PDT up reply actions

agreed

For another thing, we can't sell low on Harden now, because this is the lowest his trade value will ever be.

Even if it is in our LR interests to trade Harden, we shouldn't do that until he's near the end of his cheap years.

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions

SIGN Barry NOW!!!!

Please!
Totally agree.

by luvsmrZ on Jun 8, 2006 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions

Congratulations on your first A's win, Loaiza

We'll forgive the fact that it took you two months to get it.

Can someone tell me what happened to Crosby? I missed an inning while running errands.

Kettlecorn! Swishercorn!

by TurnTwo on Jun 8, 2006 12:14 PM PDT reply actions

A Healthy Esteban

When Loaiza is healthy he can be very good. Granted it is only one quality start, but he has to begin somewhere. Taking two out of three against Cleveland at the Jake is always a good thing in my world.

The Harden situation troubles me. I don't care how great his stuff is, if the guy is hurt he adds zero to the team. He is stradding the Kerry Wood-Mark Prior line oh so closely.

I don't know what Zito's future is like here, but I think it is way too early for the A's to be considering any deals for him. If they fall out of the race than just sit back and wait for the best deal from the contenders.

by RudiFan on Jun 8, 2006 12:15 PM PDT reply actions

I'd rather ignore the Harden situation

I'd prefer to talk about Sarloos-I just don't think he should be starting. I definitely want to give Gaudin or Windsor a shot.

Pretty soon Beane will begin to assess whether the A's can't do it and trade Zito, or whether the A's can do it and acquire some starting help. I think we have good enough chips to get a decent starter.

Ok, i lied. I think that Harden will have to get TJ. I tear up thinking about it, but i think that's what's happening here.

Then again, is it really possible for him to throw 97 after his elbow blows out?

Larry Davis couldn't treat a cold-Tony My.....Space?

by ohad on Jun 8, 2006 12:19 PM PDT reply actions

Situation:

Plenty of pitchers have come back with a strained UCL the same year. Examples would be Chacin and Burnett this year; both are due back soon. The next few days are key. If he reports significant improvement, I would expect him to pitch in a month. His velocity shouldn't be a problem as long as the ligament isn't half or completely torn. If TJ is necessary, he'll still be able to throw hard once he comes back. TJ has proven to be very successful and in some cases actually helps pitchers increase velocity due to increased elbow stability. Long term I wouldn't be too concerned. Shoulder injuries are much more worrysome.

by baseb3383 on Jun 8, 2006 12:24 PM PDT up reply actions

Agree completely

Saarloos' value is as a groundball machine that batters only see once in a game. He becomes very hittable once he's been through the lineup once.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions

The fact that they put him on the DL

almost immediately is the most sobering fact to me. If it was minor, I would think they would let it rest for a couple of days and see how it feels. The more I hear/read, coupled with that fact, makes me think you're right but hope you're dead wrong.

I don't see the A's making a drastic move like calling up Windsor or even letting Gaudin start. I still think Halsey is the better bet to start over Saarloos. He may prove me wrong, but I really don't want to see him against the Yankees. I was at the game when Halsey pitched (and lost), but I was sitting in the second row right behind the A's dugout and it looked like he had good stuff that day. That 3 run HR that A-Rod hit? It was the fourth inside fastball in that Kendall called for om the at bat, and A-Rod knew it was coming and stepped back and smashed it. In fact, I HEARD Geren say that to Kendall - "He was waiting for that one."

Sorry, lost my train of thought. Point being: Halsey over Saarloos in New York, please. He was better than the end result indicated, and I have more confidence in him than Kirk for some reason./

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Jun 8, 2006 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions

Saarloos/Halsey

Two Headed Boogey Monster.

Saarloos - 4 Innings
Halsey - 4 Innings
Street - 1 Inning

COME ON, OAKLAND, COME ON! June 19th - June 21st, 2006 ** Oakland Athletics @ Colorado Rockies **

by Colorado Fan on Jun 8, 2006 12:32 PM PDT up reply actions

I would switch it up actually

but I agree. Maybe that's the plan anyway, in which case I would be perfectly happy.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Jun 8, 2006 12:33 PM PDT up reply actions

That would be a good Idea

Switch them up every other start, leaving the other in the bullpen for an occasional out between starts. Skipping there turns when we have off days that permit skipping the #5.

I'm more concerned about Blanton than I am about Saarloos/Halsey. The A's (Macha) keep threatening to send Joe down if he doesn't perform, but they never do (Little Red Riding Hood, Style).

Couple more starts like yesterday, and he needs to go down to AAA just to prove that management is serious.

COME ON, OAKLAND, COME ON! June 19th - June 21st, 2006 ** Oakland Athletics @ Colorado Rockies **

by Colorado Fan on Jun 8, 2006 12:40 PM PDT up reply actions

<wipes Boogey Monster on Poppy's sleeve>

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 12:55 PM PDT up reply actions

UCL strain

is a DL type of injury regardless of letting him rest for a couple days or not. He won't be able to pitch for at least two weeks. It's just easier to determine his long term prognosis (ie whether it's a 1 month or 12 month injury) by monitoring his progress over the next few days.

Btw, I agree with Halsey over Saarloos, but we need a lefty in the bullpen.

by baseb3383 on Jun 8, 2006 12:49 PM PDT up reply actions

I'm totally with you.

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

by Little Lebowski Urban Achievers on Jun 8, 2006 12:20 PM PDT reply actions

I am starting the Sign "Z" now

CAMPAIGN
I believe one of the main reasons that Billy held onto him in lieu of Huddy and Mulder was his ability to avoid injury...and now with Harden on the perennial all-DL team, he would be crazy to deal him - give him a raise, and he will actually give you the 30+ starts per year that you are paying him for...If anything I say trade Harden for some offense...I love Harden, I think he can be a monster, fill a trophy case with CY's one day...but until he puts together a full season - the A's will be paying for what if's, and unfortunately the A's don't have that luxury...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 12:22 PM PDT reply actions

I think its just time

We made Harden a reliever. He's never going to hold up an entire season as a starter, no matter how good he looks and how much we want to believe.

by walk off bunt on Jun 8, 2006 12:22 PM PDT reply actions

That's an idea too...

by SD Erik on Jun 8, 2006 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions

i like the idea...

but what purpose will he serve if we already have street? harden would be an elite (albeit injury-prone) closer and if the a's made him a reliever, he would surely walk to the highest bidder who would pay him closer money. might as well trade him for what we can get soon, which is undoubtedly a lot.

"He has no equivalent." -Paul DePodesta on Jeremy Brown

by flipgatey3 on Jun 8, 2006 12:28 PM PDT reply actions

September 2006 Rotation/Lineup

Losing Harden for an extended period of time is going to keep this team from making an extended run...come July 15th, and the team is near or below .500, gotta trade Zito.

Haren
Loaiza
Blanton
Saarloos
Windsor

Lineup:

Ellis
Kotsay
Swisher
Chavez
Thomas
Bradley
Crosby
Barton
Kendall

Hopefully, Beane can land a Brandon McCarthy from the White Sox, or another young, talented starting pitcher to replace Zito.

Either Way, Zito's Gone.

COME ON, OAKLAND, COME ON! June 19th - June 21st, 2006 ** Oakland Athletics @ Colorado Rockies **

by Colorado Fan on Jun 8, 2006 12:29 PM PDT reply actions

Harden

the guy is too toned and lean. He needs a little fat, needs to be pulled off the bench press.
this guy's gonna keep getting hurt if he doesn't change his approach, and he's totally useless to us being out all of the time like this. It's ironic because he trains so hard to keep in great shape but I think that may be the reason he keeps getting injured

by ASFANATIC on Jun 8, 2006 12:29 PM PDT reply actions

Being too muscular

isn't what caused this elbow strain. AJ Burnett is not too muscular, but it happened to him too, as well as to Chacon. According to Davis, it's the kind of problem that can occur on a single pitch, and how much Harden likes to bench press doesn't seem to be related. Then again, I'm not a doctor, but I would genuinely think that if Harden's physique was the source of EVERY problem like some fans allege, someone with some medical knowledge would have mentioned it to him.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Jun 8, 2006 12:32 PM PDT up reply actions

i am a physician

and you bring up alot of good points. but you really have to wonder if this guys just isn't too wired/toned and it making him injury prone. Especially the oblique/muscle strains. And then you see these fat slobs (or, rather, heavier less toned guys) like Wells and Wickman who seem to stay healthy. I just feel he needs more bulk, more cushion. I think it's gonna be brought up. He needs to make a change

by ASFANATIC on Jun 8, 2006 12:49 PM PDT up reply actions

my new campaign

ZITO FOR TRAINER!!

by gotgreen on Jun 8, 2006 12:31 PM PDT reply actions

Why is everyone writing off this season?

The Rangers, Angels, and Mariners still all suck.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 12:46 PM PDT reply actions

I'm not

I've been saying all over the place that I still think we win the division handily.

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 12:57 PM PDT up reply actions

How many games is "handily"? And are you

willing to put money on your prediction because I'd love to take the other side.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 1:01 PM PDT up reply actions

my preseason pick was 10g over the Angels

I'm backing off of that a bit, but I still think the A's will win the division by 5-7 games over the Angels, with the Rangers ~10-12 GB and the Mariners well under .500.

I'm not really a gambling monkey, though.

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 1:05 PM PDT up reply actions

Funny

I just challenged you to a bet earlier in this thread, before I read this. I'd be happy to bet that the A's will win the division. Number of games they win by unimportant. Sounds like easy money to me.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions

So you basically want to bet more than the initial

$50, because if they win their division they'll be going to the playoffs.

by DeeWayne on Jun 8, 2006 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions

um...

I spent the whole game talking to myself in that first game thread.

Zito: You ever think about the space time continuum?
Huddy: Uh... no.

by mendelbob on Jun 8, 2006 12:46 PM PDT reply actions

Sorry.

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 12:52 PM PDT up reply actions

I guess Poppy was right.

Zito: You ever think about the space time continuum?
Huddy: Uh... no.

by mendelbob on Jun 8, 2006 12:56 PM PDT up reply actions

We left a man behind. :(

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 12:57 PM PDT up reply actions

I find it hard to believe you'd do that

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 1:05 PM PDT up reply actions

obviously

i've gotta take a hefty chunk of the blame for this incident.

Zito: You ever think about the space time continuum?
Huddy: Uh... no.

by mendelbob on Jun 8, 2006 1:59 PM PDT up reply actions

a hefty chunk?!?

LOL

You didn't notice you were the only person commenting? :)

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions

I was totally spaced out

I was working on some stuff while listening to the game, and blindly posting whenever something postworthy happened. I guess I wasn't really reading along. I had noticed that there didn't seem to be a lot of other posts, but mostly I just thought, "where did everyone go?" Only when the game ended did I go to the home page to discover not just one new thread, but two!

To make a long story short, I guess the answer is no, I didn't notice I was the only person commenting. And I didn't even hit any JD today.

Oh well. Did anything real funny happen in the second game thread?

Zito: You ever think about the space time continuum?
Huddy: Uh... no.

by mendelbob on Jun 8, 2006 2:08 PM PDT up reply actions

i saw you were still there

but i didn't want to tell you, it was so funny.

I own too many darn shoes!

by californiagirl on Jun 8, 2006 3:45 PM PDT up reply actions

That's very funny

a little bit mean, but very funny.

Zito: You ever think about the space time continuum?
Huddy: Uh... no.

by mendelbob on Jun 9, 2006 2:50 AM PDT up reply actions

loaiza's pitching

how was he throwing today. obv the results wre good but how was his break and did he get to the low 90's? those are the important thigns to determine fluke or reality. i missed his outing and only saw the end of the game...i'm a sleeper.
also i have heard from mets fans that there is no way milledge will be traded. is minaya stupid enough to do this?

by viveksap on Jun 8, 2006 12:47 PM PDT reply actions

Much to my relief as well

Loaiza was superb today. The cutter was lively at around 86 mph, his fastball went up to 91 (around 90 consistently), and his changeup was around 80. He was also throwing a two seam fastball running into right handers at around 89 mph. Very good stuff; reminded me of his breakout year with the White Sox.

by baseb3383 on Jun 8, 2006 12:52 PM PDT up reply actions

UGH

crosby has a bruised right hand, will have x-rays today.

(according to robert buan)

by gotgreen on Jun 8, 2006 12:49 PM PDT reply actions

<barf>

I don't think Brad's going to be able to sex the Ranger's lineup to death. -- Jennifer

by Sharon on Jun 8, 2006 12:51 PM PDT up reply actions

Well, doesn't that just make my day....

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 12:53 PM PDT up reply actions

Crosby says it feels worse now

than when it happened.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap;_ylt=AtnyEsPrc_L8O1MYT2NzUKQRvLYF?gid=260608105&prov=ap

Awesome

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Jun 8, 2006 1:04 PM PDT up reply actions

Please stop.

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 1:05 PM PDT up reply actions

im more worried about Crosby

He was just beginning to look like he might
live up to his pre-season billing and down
he goes.

by oak1 on Jun 8, 2006 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions

will it never end?

"the poop stain on the collective AN pantalones." -ohad

by ArakSOT on Jun 8, 2006 1:04 PM PDT up reply actions

Wonderful.

<sob>

by whiteshoes40 on Jun 8, 2006 1:20 PM PDT up reply actions

Sorry for this bit of twistedness:

"Hi I'm Rich Harden.
Some of you have visited the San Ramon Surgical Center, some of you have even spent the night. I've received such professional care at San Ramon that I've decided to move here. I recommend the Spa Girl package (she's really hot- my elbow is starting to ache again just thinking about her!).

by Brian in 317 on Jun 8, 2006 12:55 PM PDT reply actions

now THAT's "off the bone"!

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 12:56 PM PDT up reply actions

"off the bone...

just like the tendons in my elbow!"

by Brian in 317 on Jun 8, 2006 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions

Don't forget

The secretly concealed detached oblique muscles on your ribs

I like Mickey Morabito's hair.

by franks a lot on Jun 8, 2006 1:00 PM PDT up reply actions

F'in hilarious!

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 1:02 PM PDT up reply actions

Jeeps'

The Cle "Announcers" talkin 'ish about Oakland... Was it the Radio or TV guys?

"Belliard is a pain in the ass" ~ Blez

by eamb on Jun 8, 2006 1:08 PM PDT up reply actions

Radio.

I'm pondering going to the trouble of complaining.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 1:23 PM PDT up reply actions

Complain

614-460-3850 or 1460thefan.com, I did.

"Belliard is a pain in the ass" ~ Blez

by eamb on Jun 8, 2006 1:47 PM PDT up reply actions

Woops

That was the Columbous affiliate. http://www.wtam.com/main.html is the Flagship.

"Belliard is a pain in the ass" ~ Blez

by eamb on Jun 8, 2006 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions

Thanks for the correction.

Complained to the flagship, and retracted my e-mail to Cbus.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 2:17 PM PDT up reply actions

Davis says Harden will NOT need surgery.

link

But do they really know?

I don't think Brad's going to be able to sex the Ranger's lineup to death. -- Jennifer

by Sharon on Jun 8, 2006 1:02 PM PDT reply actions

No, they can't.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 1:03 PM PDT up reply actions

Liar.

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 1:04 PM PDT up reply actions

That would be so cruel.

I don't think Brad's going to be able to sex the Ranger's lineup to death. -- Jennifer

by Sharon on Jun 8, 2006 1:08 PM PDT up reply actions

I don't want to talk about it.

I so angry right now.

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 1:09 PM PDT up reply actions

I'm

Stupid <censored>. I quit.

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions

59 strikes, 18 balls

I'm just going to recite those numbers over and over in my head for a little while. Thanks Esteban, for giving me a reason to stay away from the roof of the Empire State Building.

by nycfan @ Athletics Nation on Jun 8, 2006 1:05 PM PDT reply actions

15 hits

14 singles.... 1 Double. Wow, that's just weird.

by Flash G on Jun 8, 2006 1:11 PM PDT reply actions

I have some VERY serious concerns about

Larry Davis!

Ok, Bad Luck, Injury prone, Accident Prone, Total Klutz! Those are all very valid reasons why any guy on the team could be in the trainers office more than we fans would like. But after we have 1/3 of our roster on the DL and we can't seem to keep them healthy once they come back, I have to wonder what the hell is going on in that trainer's office?!?

I'm tired of hearing other teams saying "Oh we have so many injuries!" when they only have 1-3 on the DL and we are sitting here with 7-8!! I am tired of holding my breath everytime a player other than Kendall is hit by a pitch! I am tired of hearing the term "Oblique Injury" or "Back Spasms" and wonder what the truth is. I am tired of wanting to wrap the whole team in bubblewrap everytime they take the field! I am tired of seeing a strange close play, watching Larry Davis go out to check the player, and immediately start reviewing the River Cats roster to see who might be brought in to replace him, like it is some kind of reflex!

These are the thoughts that normal baseball fans don't think! Normal men age 23-30 do not get hurt this much! When it is just one player or two players who are out on a semi regular basis, you can laugh it off and you can say, "Dude! Someone help him make his bed before he hurts himself!" But I refuse to believe that our whole team is this kind of person. I refuse to believe that this is all bad luck! Some of it, sure, bad luck. But at some point, you need to look deeper, you need to get to the root of the problem.

My focus is starting to point more and more in the direction of Larry Davis. There is something not right here. Something is definitely off. When this many players are going down, and this many players can't seem to get healthy and stay that way, you really have to wonder what is going wrong. Because it is obvious that SOMETHING is VERY wrong here!

Am I way off in saying that SOMEONE needs to take a long hard look at Larry Davis and his training program? The more people head to the DL or become "Day-to-Day" the more I wonder if we need to call up a new Trainer!

"Now, I'm not the guy who's in trouble, it's the guy on the mound who's in trouble.'' Swisher Pics

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Jun 8, 2006 1:21 PM PDT reply actions

My Apologies

For the rant like comment and for not being my normal positive self, but when you wake up and the VERY first thing you hear is Harden is back on the DL after just one start, it just sends me into a bad place! I am sorry!

"Now, I'm not the guy who's in trouble, it's the guy on the mound who's in trouble.'' Swisher Pics

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Jun 8, 2006 1:24 PM PDT up reply actions

FIRE LARRY DAVIS NOW!

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 1:24 PM PDT up reply actions

<sigh>

Those were the days....

by Jennifer on Jun 8, 2006 1:25 PM PDT up reply actions

<wavy flashback video effect>

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 1:48 PM PDT up reply actions

I'm concerned, too...

I know Larry Davis has been with the A's a long time, but something just doesn't seem right. I'm not into ripping people about their jobs because I know I'm not qualified to do better, but you see the DL, the players on the DL and the delays of players getting off the DL...I just shake and scratch my head.

Dorian on Bonds: "Still, I love it when Bonds wins at the game that he plays."

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on Jun 8, 2006 1:32 PM PDT up reply actions

The Problem is...

we have to take Risks on people w/ a history of injury problems to begin with...Paying less for the POTENTIAL upside.

Bradley
Thomas
Kotsay

As fans, we have to hold our breath all the friggin' time, even when the team has an offday and flies to an away game (Kotsay's Back... Now, Chavvy's back).

We didn't have to worry about these things Pre-Al Gore. Most of the injury information wasn't available as quickly as it is in today's world.

Not to mention that Players/Agents request DL stints in order to prolong careers, and make more money.

My head hurts.

COME ON, OAKLAND, COME ON! June 19th - June 21st, 2006 ** Oakland Athletics @ Colorado Rockies **

by Colorado Fan on Jun 8, 2006 2:29 PM PDT up reply actions

Yes, you are off base on Davis

Three comments come to mind:

1)Over the last few weeks Larry Davis and his assistant have been working with our injured guys before every game. Get to the game as the gates open ant watch for yourself. I watch all three in NY and was amazed how much work was being put in. They are constantly monitoring progress and asking questions of players as they watch. They clearly have a definite plan they are implamenting with the agreement of the player and the doctors. This guy deserves bonus not grief from fans.

2)The players are supposed to come into Spring Training in shape. I have to believe that many early season injuries are a result of what the players do or do not do before they show up.

3)The weather has been cold and wet. Sure the A's appear to be playing it very careful with guys on "bad weather" days. I think that is a good idea and should continue.

Finally, I am sick of the injuries also. But I am sure not as much as the players themselves and the staff who are working hard to help them get ready.

Thomas Walker

by Thomas Walker on Jun 8, 2006 3:30 PM PDT up reply actions

I may be off base

But I am still very concerned. There is something seriously wrong here. And the only common factor is Davis. Therefore, someone should look at him and his program very carefully!

Oh, and three responses come to mind:

I don't question their devotion to making the programs work, or the time they put in. I HAVE been there when the gates open, a hell of a lot more than 3 games. Try EVERY weekend they are at home. I have seen for myself the work that they do with the players. I never once said they were doing nothing! I am simply saying that there may be something wrong with their process!
I agree with this. There is a good chance that this is a factor in many of the injuries. But again, you can only say that to a certain point. When you have the same guys having issues, many different issues, and recurring issues, you have to start wondering what else is going on that we aren't seeing. Bad luck and clumsiness along with off season training programs can only be excuses for so long. Again, I am not accusing Davis of anything, I am just saying maybe someone should be looking his direction.
FYI: The weather here has actually been rather nice the last couple home stands. They also went to TX where it was very warm. Weather was a good excuse in April and the first part of May, but for about the last 3 weeks, not so much!

Finally, I know that Davis is working very hard and all the guys are very frustrated by the injuries, I never said that WASN'T the case. I have a lot of respect for people who work in Sports Medicine and I know it is very hard work. I am simply saying that after this many injuries, this many guys out, this many of the SAME guys out, you have to wonder what is going on. And to NOT look in the trainer's direction and NOT discuss his "plan" for them would be irresponsible.

"Now, I'm not the guy who's in trouble, it's the guy on the mound who's in trouble.'' Swisher Pics

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Jun 8, 2006 8:22 PM PDT up reply actions

OK so we agree

I do not disagree with any of your comments. I think we are both on the same track. I just understand it is primarily the player himself and their doctor that puts the plan together. All of these guys have different routines they follow. (Most are constantly tinkering with what they do) I am simply amazed that Davis and his crew have kept all these guys working on their individual plans while moving from city to city.

I love the two hours before the game almost as much as the game itself. To watch the A's away games works alot better because the team is out there when the gates open.

Anyway one reason I love this team is because of the dedication and excitement all the players show at these times when they are out of the spotlight it is just plain hard work. I figure Davis must be doing something right to keep these guys on target when they are so down on themselves for not being able to play. The problem as you say is not from a lack of effort.

The injuries this year have been unbelieveable. I really think things will turn around when it get warmer. The pulls and tweaks just seem to happen more when they are forced to work in wet or damp conditions. That is the way it was in NY for all three days.

I will see you the next time the gates open.

Thomas Walker

by Thomas Walker on Jun 9, 2006 12:52 PM PDT up reply actions

I know the season's full of ups and downs...

...but today is just ... plain ...

ACK! I can't even come up with an adjective because I'm so happy and irked at the same time!

Dorian on Bonds: "Still, I love it when Bonds wins at the game that he plays."

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on Jun 8, 2006 1:35 PM PDT reply actions

Poor Larry Davis

He just wants to be an unknown trainer, no mentions on the Internet, newspaper, radio or TV. While Davis needs give up this dream for this year.

Macha is a great manager. -Ron Washington

by pachydermOAFC on Jun 8, 2006 2:43 PM PDT reply actions

shhhhhhhh!

Don't tell him, but he's on the internet (Who knew he liked crossword puzzles?)

There's no crying in baseball!

by gigglingone on Jun 8, 2006 4:46 PM PDT up reply actions

Larry's Not the Problem

The problem lies with many other factors but don't discount his near twenty years of experience dealing with the A's. All teams go through cycles such as this and now it's "our turn." We were lucky in the beginning of this decade b/c we had a lot of young AND durable players. Right now we don't. You can be sure this is factoring into Beane's decision process for his next series of trades. Ultimately, it's why I hope he re-signs Zito. He is the exception to most modern athletes who stretch their physical limitations to the point they become vulnerable to injury.

"I've been accused of using too many words...I suppose that's like accusing Mozart of using too many notes." Bill King

by Gerard on Jun 8, 2006 3:13 PM PDT reply actions

Tomorrow's game vs. NYY

Is anybody going to the game in NY tomorrow? I'll be there wearing my Green and Gold with pride.

Signatures? We don't need no stinking signatures.

by jubjub on Jun 8, 2006 3:28 PM PDT reply actions

Going to the Game...

I will be dressed in work attire, send me an email tonight maybe we can meet up.

"Christ, evidentally I played against Swisher in '02 when he was at OSU and Granderson when he was at Illinois-Chicago."

by compy75 on Jun 8, 2006 7:04 PM PDT up reply actions

"Steller"

When he was a Jay maybe?

by iglew on Jun 8, 2006 3:35 PM PDT reply actions

Bostonites think

that Steller is a wicked-tasty Belgian beah.

"The first night, we were right there," Bradley said. "All we needed was a couple of touchdowns, and we would have had them."

by jeepers on Jun 8, 2006 3:40 PM PDT up reply actions

STELLER!

</Southie Brando>

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 3:51 PM PDT up reply actions

STREETCAR!

You can always depend on the kindness of strangers...
To pluck up your spirits, and shield you from dangers...
"Now here's a tip from Blanche you won't regret..."
A stranger's just a friend you haven't met...
STREETCAR!

Will the Simpsons well ever run dry?

Better luck is just a standard deviation away.

by FreeSeatUpgrade on Jun 8, 2006 8:09 PM PDT up reply actions

What do you mean, steller?

It looks like stellar to me ;-)

But seriously, this sounds exactly like that day in Anaheim last year when the A's won the game against K-Rod with the Kielty home run and Beane found out that Harden and Crosby were going to be out for an extended time.

I knew something wasn't right with Loaiza. From all reports, he finally had velocity and the cutter back. Let's hope he remains healthy because this is the $7 million pitcher Beane wanted enough to give up a first round pick.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Jun 8, 2006 4:01 PM PDT up reply actions

Cerebral Halsey...

should start instead of Saarloos. Keep Saarloos for the pen.

by jdoubleu on Jun 8, 2006 4:01 PM PDT reply actions

<snerk>

That's just awful ... but I'm laughin'!

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 8, 2006 4:32 PM PDT up reply actions

Saarloos earned the starting role

over Halsey with the 8 inning gem last week against the Twinkies. Save Halsey for the pen, or make it a combo of Saarloos/Halsey. Shelf Richard for months until he's really 100% if that ever happens. And whatever we do, we BETTER keep Zito. Offer him a hometown discounted/backloaded contract like someone yesterday put up. This way we can see how serious he is about staying. Oakland seems like a nice fit for Barry anyway. Let's take NY! At least we'll be on Sportscenter and BBTN! Hopefully winning!~

by A'sfansince1970 on Jun 8, 2006 4:24 PM PDT reply actions

Harden's Off Season Training

Does anyone know what kind of training he does in the off season? I've heard he trains "very hard". I work in the health/fitness industry and whenever I hear someone say that I suspect overtraining. Many people, especially athletes, think more is better when it comes to working out but the reality is the human body can only take so much. When steroids or HGH is added to the equation all bets are off, it becomes a wild card.

Anyway, anyone have any info? Does he follow a program designed by the A's? Does he workout with an old high school friend who's stocky and has a gotee? Is he all about Pilates?

by McBain on Jun 8, 2006 4:52 PM PDT reply actions

Davis was on the radio today

talking about Harden, he said that he will sit for a week, and next Tues. will be tested, if no pain, then he goes back to rehab, if he still has pain, then you wait another weak until there is no pain.
Harden said he hurt himself in the 3rd inning of the Twins game, but came out in the 4th and only threw fast balls which did not hurt him. This sounds like a reliever waiting to happen.

by china bob on Jun 8, 2006 4:56 PM PDT reply actions

I'd take Harden in the bullpen

for a while... since his contract isn't for that much, it's doable. Saarloos is above-average for a fifth starter. If it's better for Harden's arm, he'd be lights out as a seventh-eighth inning guy. It wouldn't work in the long term because either he or Street would eventually move elsewhere (because closers get paid more).

by vk on Jun 8, 2006 6:10 PM PDT up reply actions

I was dissing Loaiza just last night...

Didn't expect anything good from him today and I can honestly say I am delighted to be proven wrong ! Whooooooooo Hooooooooooooo Loaiza ! and Boooooooo hoooooooooo Harden.

by IM4Oakgal on Jun 8, 2006 5:55 PM PDT reply actions

The Injury Prone Gang

I'm not sure if Ellis belongs on that list, but it looked better with 5 players. Perhaps it can work like a reverse jinx now...

--Nebraska--

ThePastime

by Ryan Armbrust on Jun 8, 2006 7:11 PM PDT reply actions

Bradley

looks very unhappy.

I own too many darn shoes!

by californiagirl on Jun 8, 2006 7:15 PM PDT up reply actions

does he look like that in the clubhouse?

or do you usually just hang out with the other relief pitchers?

just kidding with you...

I've noticed that Bradley looks like he's "thugging it" in a lot of his official photos.

--Nebraska--

ThePastime

by Ryan Armbrust on Jun 8, 2006 7:21 PM PDT up reply actions

you would think he would try and overcome

that image. honestly the only happy photo of him i've seen is the one with the green wig.

I own too many darn shoes!

by californiagirl on Jun 8, 2006 7:24 PM PDT up reply actions

I must say...

that I still love Rich's smirk, even though he keeps hurting himself... but we won't go there. Not anymore. <glances at mayhem caused by multiple thrown chairs>

by whiteshoes40 on Jun 8, 2006 10:42 PM PDT up reply actions

<Rich sprains latissimus smirkus muscle>

Putting the "fun" in "perfunctory"

by Poppy on Jun 8, 2006 10:50 PM PDT up reply actions

<cirquegirl sprains Cirkus Smirkus muscle>

bunt you hump @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jun 9, 2006 12:36 PM PDT up reply actions

Excuse me a moment while I indulge in my own

little pitty party. I haven't lived in the Bay Area for any extended period of time since I was 18 freaking years old. Finally I get a chance to do a residency at CMPC in SF this summer which will allow me to actually watch my boys live for once and what happens? The whole dang team gets hurt. Here's my take: We can weather the loss of Harden. In his absence the first go-around, both Halsey and Saarloos generally gave the team good outings and I have no reason to think that will change. Let's pray Crosby only has a bruise, though, because that is one we might not be able to weather...

by willcmatthews on Jun 8, 2006 7:45 PM PDT reply actions

update

it's pretty certain that it's only a bruise. enjoy the bay area this summer.

I own too many darn shoes!

by californiagirl on Jun 8, 2006 7:46 PM PDT up reply actions

the Rouse is loose!!!

is he starting tonight? i'd prefer to see him in there rather than perez/scutaro...but knowing macha, he'll be more comfortable with scutaro's defense

by Rayver723 on Jun 9, 2006 2:40 PM PDT reply actions