Erubiel Durazo: Resigned to One-Year Deal

High-ranking

Who's high? Am I reading this right? El Blez scooping all? Be-lieve it.

Network Associates Stadium: Former home of the 'Fear Mecir' sign.

by dboysick on Jan 13, 2005 6:10 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

who's high?

jeremy giambi?

by xbhaskarx on Jan 13, 2005 6:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I dunno if I'd really call it a scoop. Ruby's not a free agent. The only possible outcomes are A) Ruby signs a long-term contract, B) Ruby signs a short-term contract, C) Ruby goes to arbitration, or D) Ruby quits baseball to be a fair-trade coffee farmer in Jalisco.

We knew A wasn't going to happen. We hoped D was unlikely. All that's left is a short contract and arbitration. Since most players and all teams hate arbitration, the short-term contract was pretty darned likely.

by Nate on Jan 14, 2005 1:14 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Good to hear

I like the idea of having all those high OBP's bunched together at the top of the order. Lineups like that can really wear down a pitcher.

I don't think there was much question to Ruby leaving, but I'm glad to see that he's inked. I'm interested to see what kind of money he gets.

Go Beach.

by Dirtbag Pride on Jan 13, 2005 6:11 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

The Shift

Does anyone know what were Durazo's stats against the shift?

yanks-suck.com

by paul75 on Jan 13, 2005 6:16 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm

I was really expecting a two to three year contract, to be honest.

Maybe the A's thinking is that they will keep Durazo for this year only and let Johnson take over at DH next year. That begs the question, why not trade Ruby and let Johnson get his ML experience now?

I guess time will only tell

Go Bruins!

by clatino on Jan 13, 2005 6:25 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

Maybe

Maybe because if they have some good players play too, they might win some games. You can't trade everyone for prospects.

by RichardP on Jan 13, 2005 6:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Obviously

I think that Johnson has potential to be just as good as Durazo due to his power...that's all I'm saying.

Go Bruins!

by clatino on Jan 13, 2005 7:14 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

In 2005; Durazo and Hatteberg

In 2006; Johnson and Barton

by jmoney on Jan 14, 2005 12:41 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Nah

Johnsaon DH Powell 1B Barton LF

"Matt Damon" World America Team Police.

by Oaklandsno1 on Jan 14, 2005 1:46 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Easy.

mroaklandsno1: please slow down a little bit. Powell will start in Kane County, aka A-Ball. Barton is 19 and has never played LF. Johnson, maybe. However, the long term (2007 or 2008)look very, very positive.

Question: If Hatteberg were to get injured, would Durazo actually play 1B, or would Johnson? Why can't "Wash" work his so-called "Magic" with Durazo at 1st Base?

Let's Go Oak-Land!

by Colorado Fan on Jan 14, 2005 10:01 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Because....

....a guy's arms have to be able to make it all the way down to the ground when he bends over to field a ball.

That's very difficult to do for our beloved T.Rex. ;-)

by nodaclu on Jan 14, 2005 3:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Runs

Let's hope some of those logjammed basepaths translate into runs a little better this year than they did last year.

by TempletonPeck on Jan 13, 2005 6:33 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

good to hear....

....i like ruby tuesday (sorry, big stones fan).

it's OK to steal-just don't let billy see ya.

by bigelephant on Jan 13, 2005 7:10 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

Really?

She would never say where she came from
Yesterday don't matter if it's gone
While the sun is bright
Or in the darkest night
No one knows
She comes and goes

Goodbye, ruby tuesday
Who could hang a name on you?
When you change with every new day
Still I'm gonna miss you...

Don't question why she needs to be so free
She'll tell you it's the only way to be
She just can't be chained
To a life where nothing's gained
And nothing's lost
At such a cost

There's no time to lose, I heard her say
Catch your dreams before they slip away
Dying all the time
Lose your dreams
And you will lose your mind.
Ain't life unkind?

Goodbye, ruby tuesday
Who could hang a name on you?
When you change with every new day
Still I'm gonna miss you...

Me too. :) Keith Richards is my favorite.

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 13, 2005 7:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

very nice G&G G!!!!!!!

it's OK to steal-just don't let billy see ya.

by bigelephant on Jan 13, 2005 8:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

not enough people.....

appreciate the awesome rock of back then. Rolling Stones, AC/DC, The Ramones, Guns N' Roses and the Sex Pistols to name a few favorites. It's kinda sad how people get lost in the music of today and don't appreciate classic rock. :/

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 13, 2005 8:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

oh my...

the ramones are now "classic rock"?

now i feel old...

by xbhaskarx on Jan 13, 2005 8:45 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Calling the Ramones classic rock not so bad

Calling Guns & Roses classic rock stings more. Has it been that long since T2?

by grover on Jan 13, 2005 8:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Ah, don't worry...

Everyone gets.... classic. Classic rock is the best type. :) Don't feel so bad that you guys are maturing more and more. heheheheh I'm so glad I'm still 14.

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 13, 2005 8:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I'll get you my pretty!

One day you'll be old and decrepit like the rest of us.

by grover on Jan 13, 2005 9:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

yeah...

but not one day in the near future! you'll be over in the hill in, what, 20 years? I'll be over the hill in like 35 years. In that time, Slipknot, Bowling for Soup and Greenday will be classic rock and I will feel old too. For the time being, I feel this odd feeling of satisfaction making other people feel old... mwahaha I know, I know... karma will come to get me. :p

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 13, 2005 9:13 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Lil Darlin'

You start talking about hills, just know I'll leave you in the dust. Going over the hill and through the woods is what I do for a living.

by grover on Jan 13, 2005 9:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Classic Alternative

I'm not all that old, but on my last trip to the bay area, my childhood station started calling the music of my youth "classic alternative." That made me feel old!

by salb918 on Jan 14, 2005 7:57 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Thank you!!!!!

for bringing up Green Day and saying they won't be Classic Rock until you're old ... I feel so young now. I was listening to them back when I was younger than you.

Relax alright don't try to strike everyone out. Strikeouts are boring besides that they're fascist. Throw some ground balls it's more democratic.

by devo on Jan 14, 2005 9:56 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Uh.... Green Day is classic rock already

Just because they have young fans doesn't change that fact.

I remember when I first heard the Dead Kennedys being referred to as a "Classic Punk" band- man, I felt old at that moment...

by AlamedaAphid on Jan 14, 2005 2:56 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Lalalalalalalalalaaaaaaaaaaaa

I'm not listening.

Relax alright don't try to strike everyone out. Strikeouts are boring besides that they're fascist. Throw some ground balls it's more democratic.

by devo on Jan 14, 2005 2:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

lol

it's hilarious how you being... 23?... now consider yourself old. I don't consider Green Day classic rock because they're still coming out with new, awesome music. Besides, Billy Joe Armstrong looks really hot with eyeliner. And that band has awesome lyrics and songs. :)

"So take the photographs
And still frames in your mind
Hang it on a shelf of
Good health and good time
Tattoos of memories
And dead skin on trial
For what it's worth
It was worth all the while
It's something unpredictable
But in the end is right
I hope you had the time of your life"

I think that's good for describing my feelings about the dreaded big three breakup. Of course, Green Day.

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 14, 2005 4:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

well...

the ramones and sex pistols have both been around since well before i was born, but they're punk, not classic rock.

by xbhaskarx on Jan 13, 2005 9:14 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Even 70's punk

Is now considered classic rock.

by grover on Jan 13, 2005 9:17 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

You know times are a'chingin when

When I was in high school thrift store had 70's clothes. Bringing back the 70's was the "in" thing.

Now thrift stores are full of 80's/early 90's clothing. Leg warmers are back. I went to an 80's party wearing my thrift store finds, when everybody else was wearing theri addidas (those are back too) track suits I was dressed as the asian Don Johnson, salmon shirt, white blazer, grey slacks. It was awesome.

"Crazy! Cool! Go!" - West Side Story

by secret ASian man on Jan 13, 2005 9:41 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

ASian man

where were your leg warmers???

"What I'm trying to do is set our pitching up for five years," said Beane

by Satchmo22 on Jan 14, 2005 4:49 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I have leg warmers!

I've got like nine or ten pairs! those things rock. :)

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 14, 2005 4:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

'Classic Rock'

I'm not that old (39), but to me "classic rock" means Buddy Holly and Elvis Presley. Then the Beatles came along and changed everything ... and not for the better. The only modern rock band I like is Queen. Freddie Mercury was awesome.

by iglew on Jan 14, 2005 12:57 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Definitely

MDL is right, classic rock is not the punk/"new age" rock bands. Classic rock is basically of branch of oldies with guys like the Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Queen, The Animals, Elvis. I do not agree however that the Beatles arrival somehow changed rock for worse..

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 3:48 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

That should say punk/new age from the seventies

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 3:49 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

And even farther

Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochran, the Big Bopper and Jerry Lee lewis

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 3:50 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

G&G Girl

have you hacked into my music player?

it's OK to steal-just don't let billy see ya.

by bigelephant on Jan 14, 2005 4:59 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

The G & G Girl is sure

a powerful part of this Blog. When she speaks we all listen and we all answer.

Still don't know how or why she gets grounded.

by robertmelvin on Jan 14, 2005 6:39 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

You mean

This isn't a g&gGirl blog? I'm in the wrong place!

The triple of Jeremy Brown's imagination was, in reality, a home run.

by ArakSOT on Jan 14, 2005 6:52 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

aww!

you guys make me feel so special!!!! :D Now imagine if I hadn't googled "Barry Zito" into images and come up with a picture of Blez and Barry? I wouldn't have signed up and none of you would have known Barry Zito's biggest fan.... wow, dude... I'm sure glad Blez took that picture! AN has saved me from many crazy days. :) As for the grounding thing, lets just say my parents are a little uptight and protective and I'm a risk taker. Not bad risks, mind you (that is, not risks that will permanantly damage my brain and have me smelling horrible)... just normal risks. Normal to me. And I'm very different from other people. That, and my reluctance to clean my room sometimes. :) she threatened to take down my posters once and that got me moving.

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 14, 2005 4:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Trust me...

the honor was all mine in taking that picture. Z is still the coolest A I've met in person, and I've met a lot of them.

Just a down to earth, normal, willing to talk to anyone kind of guy.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Jan 14, 2005 4:51 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

ahh Blez....

you're killing me here! i can't WAIT to meet him. Hey, do you know what's going on with that whole photo session for fanfest? because you can buy tickets for photo sessions with players. If it is what I think it is, i'm gonna have a lot of fun at fan fest... ;)

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 14, 2005 5:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

how did you find out about that.....?

i was so careful! lol

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 14, 2005 4:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

demise of the big three

makes me wish i was still a "2000 man"

by xbhaskarx on Jan 13, 2005 7:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Line-up

Assuming Kotsay and Kendall bat 1-2, and Chavez/ Durazo will take two of the 3-4-5 spots. Who fills the other spot? Byrnes? 6-9 look solid.

by silas on Jan 13, 2005 7:16 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

He'll have to step up bigtime, but...

Crosby?

by jmoney on Jan 14, 2005 12:42 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

OBP

I was noticing that too. But this is also a lineup devoid of power, save Chavez and maybe Durazo.

I wrote a simulator in a programming language I use for school...the results say that this year's lineup will score more runs, but not by much. I'm still working out some kinks in the program, but here's the rub:

Perpetually having guys on first and second is fantastic. But a double to the gap or a homerun is going to do a lot more damage than a walk or slap single.

I'm really excited about my simulator; I'll be working out the kinks soon. But my goal is to replace the lame "runs created" stat with a more accurate read.

Anyway, my point is that OBP is great, but we may be undervaluing power a bit.

by salb918 on Jan 13, 2005 8:45 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

Your program...

How does it factor into account speed on the basepaths and baserunning ability? Let's just say Kendall draws a walk, and Kotsay hits a slap single, it's safe to assume, depending on where the ball is hit Kendall has a good chane of going form 1st to third.

I mean, we're not the Giants where their baserunning is akin to a buffet line; station to station.

"Crazy! Cool! Go!" - West Side Story

by secret ASian man on Jan 13, 2005 9:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

All our guys have legs, very

encouraging

"Billy Ball 2005! ...the excitement's back!"

by A s Eh on Jan 13, 2005 11:17 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Not everybody...

...has legs on the team, but even some of the not so fast guys have good baserunning skills. Like Hatteberg, he's older and slower but he can go from 1st to 3rd at times.

"Crazy! Cool! Go!" - West Side Story

by secret ASian man on Jan 14, 2005 9:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Currently

Currently I factor baserunning as station to station except when there are two outs. If I could get more data and a lot more time, I could give each player a "chance" to go from first to third. Or, with more data, I could let "fast" players like Kotsay or Byrnsey go from 1st to 3rd on singles to right field. But the fact of the matter is, baserunning is just not a big effect on run-scoring as, say, a 40 home run player (maybe Chavvy this year?)

by salb918 on Jan 14, 2005 8:00 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

No Clean-up Hitter

We are definitely devoid of power. With another big RH bat, we go from 85 to 95 wins. Magglio, Magglio, where art thou, Magglio?

by silas on Jan 13, 2005 9:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

no, not devoid, 189 home runs last year

but I do see increases; 220-240 home runs.

Almost every player can be expected to improve power numbers this season;

Byrnes (Maturing still, 1-year contract, 25+).
Kotsay (Learned AL pitchers last year, 1-yr + option, 20).
Swisher (Should match Dye, could surpass, he could have an awesome home runs to walks ratio! I'm thinkin 23).
Chavez (Missed a month last year, 38 taters?).
Crosby (Should improve strike zone this year, 25?).
Ginter (23 home runs if close to full-time).
Hatteberg (Same would be OK but I think he will pop them out more often as he moves down in the order, 25!).Esp. if Macha rests him!
Durazo (1 year contract keeps him hustling, he could really get loose in this years lineup! 33).
Kendall (No home runs but an RBI waiting to happen!)

Bench

Melhuse 10?
C Thomas 8?
Kielty (Trade)
Dan Johnson 15?
Ellis/Scutaro 10
Others ?

"Billy Ball 2005! ...the excitement's back!"

by A s Eh on Jan 13, 2005 11:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Dream on

Your crazy optimism is enviable. To me it looks like your HR numbers for Byrnes, Swisher, and Ginter are all too high, and your number for Hatteberg is way too high -- even assuming that all four of them are everyday starters, which is by no means certain. Your Chavez, Crosby, and Kotsay numbers are also leaning toward the optimistic end of their probable range.

I think the A's will get fewer HRs in 05 than in 04, but they'll score more runs nevertheless. I wouldn't be surprised if we have the lowest HR/R ratio in the league.

The A's have been quietly transformed into a small-ball team.

by iglew on Jan 14, 2005 12:46 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Devoid of Power?

Can we agree that "Power" is a lot different today than it was 5 years ago (Thank you Steroid Testing). I think we'll get back to when 40 Homers is a great, great year. 50 Homers will come around every 10 Years, or so.

So with that said, I'll take 25 Homers each (average) from Crosby, Durazo, Chavez, Ginter, Byrnes, and Swisher. Then, I'll take 15 Homers each from Hatteberg, Kotsay. After that, I'll take the 5 Homers and .400 OBP Kendall gives me.

Chavez
Crosby
Durazo
Ginter
Byrnes
Swisher
--------
= 150 Home Runs

Hatteberg
Kotsay
Kendall
--------
= 35 Home Runs

Bench
-----
= 40 Home Runs

Total = 225 Home Runs

WOW!

Let's Go Oak-Land!

by Colorado Fan on Jan 14, 2005 10:17 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Nice

I agree with those calculations. That is why power is not too big of a concern for me.

by kaweahkaweah on Jan 14, 2005 2:30 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

A tad more realistic

Chavez = 35
Crosby = 25
Durazo = 25
Ginter = 20
Byrnes = 18
Swisher = 15
Total = 138

Hatty = 10 (less PT)
Kotsay = 12
Kendall = 5
Total = 27

Bench = 30 (hit 27 last year, leading bopper (Melhuse) will probably lose ABs, Johnson backing up Hatty will add a few, though)

Total = 195 (189 last year, would have been #6 in AL ... Boston and Texas only hit 222 and 227, respectively in good hitting parks with superior Offenses)

Relax alright don't try to strike everyone out. Strikeouts are boring besides that they're fascist. Throw some ground balls it's more democratic.

by devo on Jan 14, 2005 2:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I think we could crack 2 hundred

It isn't unrealistic to think that Swisher can crack 20. Also, Byrnes is improving i dont think he'll regress to 18, hes gettin better every year.

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 2:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

No doubt.

These are, in my opinion, the most likely scenerios for each player.

Not all of them will be correct. Some players may take larger than reasonably expected steps forward. Others may regress or be injured. If more see unexpected improvements than enexpected regressions, we will probably surpass this total. Of course, the opposite is true as well.

There are a host of other facts that could play into it ... how many extra inning games we play, the average temperature of our home games (ie if cold spells happen to all while we're on the road), the average humidity in night games, the way pitching matchups happen to line up, etc, etc, etc ....

My prediction is that the 2005 A's hit 195 homeruns +/- 5% (10 homeruns).

Relax alright don't try to strike everyone out. Strikeouts are boring besides that they're fascist. Throw some ground balls it's more democratic.

by devo on Jan 14, 2005 3:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

We'll crack

90 wins alot easier than 200 Hr's, with our speed, defence and relief pitching. Which is more important than the 200 Hr.

by robertmelvin on Jan 14, 2005 10:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Double to the gap

Don't we have good doubles hitters on the team? Even Scutaro despite his low SLG had a fair amount of doubles in '04. I think we'll be a team based on getting on base and driving everybody in with the gap-to-gap doubles that's capable of coming from everybody from Byrnesie to Swisher to Kotsay to Crosby.

by OaktownTribesman on Jan 13, 2005 10:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Doubles

Yes we were a good doubles team in 2004. We ranked 3rd. But we were 30th in Triples.

by Hang Man on Jan 14, 2005 11:26 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Devoid of Power???

Power is a lot different today than it was years ago. I think we'll get back to when 40 Homers is a great, great year. 50 Homers will come around every 10 Years, or so.

So with that said, I'll take 25 Homers each from Crosby, Durazo, Chavez (35), Ginter, Byrnes, and Swisher. Then, I'll take 15 Homers each from Hatteberg, Kotsay. After that, I'll take the 5 Homers and .400 OBP Kendall gives me.

Let's Go Oak-Land!

by Colorado Fan on Jan 14, 2005 10:11 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

What about the new outfielder from Atlanta?

I can't remember his name but hopefully he's not a Tlong clone. I just don't think I can look at that loopy swing again. I don't think the Red Sox or Marlins had a huge amount of power, more speed and contact, no? I think it's great to get the first two guys on as long as the next one doubles or singles one of them in. Or one of the first two, Kotsay or Kendall, steal a base-perish the thought. I say turn Macha loose and let him manage NL style. And how Guns and Roses can be mentioned in the same post as The Stones is beyond me. What about The Who, Boston, The Kinks? Now THAT'S Clasic Rock! (Ouch, I'm showing my age for sure. 39 and counting)
Go A's!

by A'sfansince1970 on Jan 13, 2005 9:10 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

C Thomas

I think he was a good pickup and my bet is that the plan is for him to start and Brynes to be the 4th outfielder. Unless they trade Brynes to the Mets for Cameron.

Bob

ogallalabob

by ogallalabob on Jan 14, 2005 9:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

You think

they're going to pay Byrnes $2 million and sit him on the bench in favor of a guy who has never played a complete year in the majors?

by Just Me on Jan 14, 2005 12:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

LF

Yep, I think that Beane wanted Thomas, and that Thomas showed enough last year for the Braves in the half season he played for the A's to make this call. His 360 + oba and superior dedense is enough to pencil him in as starting against RH pitching. Besides I think Beane by trading Hudson and Mulder had a plan to be competitive in 2005 and that plan entailed building a strong bullpen and Bench depth. Their is no one in the system who is able to give you quality ab's and play all 3 of positions and the going rate for a paltoon or back up of is 1-2 million.

Besides with Thomas and Swisher starting Brynes will get plenty of opputunities to play.

I do not think all the of the Brynes trade talk is out of nowhere either I think the A's made it known he might be available.

Bob

ogallalabob

by ogallalabob on Jan 14, 2005 3:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

salb918: re power, run production

The A's may have power beyond Chavez, Durazo: their middle-infield figures to out HR most others if Ginter gets a lot of time (as Crosby matures to show better command of the strike zone, 25-30 HRs next year is not far-fetched).

I think the run-production will be greatly affected by Macha's choices for batting order. Setting it up so doubles hitters follow high OBP guys will be important, as will putting "1st-to-3rd" speed guys ahead of good singles hitters. Crafted correctly, run prod could be well up; if not, could produce high LOB, same run prod.

Nico

by Nico on Jan 13, 2005 9:17 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

Anybody ever go to New Orleans?

I'm going with my 5 year old daughter piggybacking on my wifes business trip. Any fun places? Suggestions? I agree with secretasianman speed and power work well when crafted correctly. Hopefully Macha Man learned from his mistakes last year.

by A'sfansince1970 on Jan 13, 2005 9:21 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

A request

If you're going to New Orleans, then you have to tell me what it's like to do to a drive-thru bar. That would really make my day.

If you can do that for me, then it would be awesome.

But since you're going with your kid, I don't think it's such a good idea.

"Crazy! Cool! Go!" - West Side Story

by secret ASian man on Jan 13, 2005 9:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

It sounds more glamorous than it is

At least the whole drive-through liquor concept is... I'm sure New Orleans is much different than the rural mid-American town I grew up in that had a drive through liquor/pawn store where you could buy a gun if you wanted to.

Oakland seems safe in comparison, doesn't it?

by LD on Jan 13, 2005 10:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

We had a drive-through liquor store

in the Bay Area when I was growing up.

What a concept.

The triple of Jeremy Brown's imagination was, in reality, a home run.

by ArakSOT on Jan 14, 2005 6:38 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Breakfast at Tally-Ho...

Tally-Ho is in the French Quarter, 400 Chartres St. Lots of locals eat there. It's a hole in the wall, but the food is great, and the owner and staff are really nice. The pancakes and the grits are particularly unbelievable!

Report back if you end up going...

by andyinfremont on Jan 14, 2005 12:16 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Anybody ever go to New Orleans?

Went for our honeymoon four years ago, went again a year-and-a-half later, and can't wait to go back ... and it's all about the eats.

Cafe du Monde is, of course, a must for beignets and lattes. Don't miss the barbecue shrimp at Pere Antoine (on Royal Street in the Quarter), and it is totally worth any wait in line for lunch at Uglesich's -- looks like a dumpy little shack in an industrial area walking distance from the St. Charles streetcar line just north of the Garden District, but it's a world-renowned dumpy little shack.

Not sure if it's a seasonal thing, but any of the swamp tours can be pretty cool.

OK, don't get me started.

by River City Slim on Jan 14, 2005 10:10 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

well, the angels won in '02

they had a couple big guns, but mostly a lineup that got hits 1 thru 9. so long as you have some pop (chavez, ruby, maybe byrnes, crosby, and swisher), i think this formula can still work pretty good. and if we're talking about classic rock, you can't forget cream, led zep, and jimi (unless you can't hear jimi). guns n' roses my ass, if that's classic rock, then we're signing delgado!

by guy incognito on Jan 13, 2005 9:22 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

ha!

dude led zeppelin is sooo awesome! his CD "Stairway to Heaven" is one of my favorites. Jimi Hendrix is one cool dude also! Hey, it's not my fault that you're in denial about Guns N Roses being clasic rock!!

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 13, 2005 9:29 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Stairway...

Is my ringtone.

"Crazy! Cool! Go!" - West Side Story

by secret ASian man on Jan 13, 2005 9:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

his CD "Stairway to Heaven"

His? Zeppelin is a band, composed of Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and the late John Bonham.

by jmoney on Jan 14, 2005 12:46 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

ugh.... you're right.....

Stress of finals week, fatigue of softball tryouts and brain malfunctions have caused me to make many mistakes.... I need to sleep in.

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 14, 2005 9:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Zep one and two

Are the two best albums ever. Cream's Disreali Gears rocks. I think you can compare our 2005 A's to the 2002 Angels and we have more pitching. I'm optimistic about this year! I went to fanfest 4 years ago and had a blast at Jack London Square running around getting autographs. I had everybody sign on an A's jersey. Totally cool. Jason Giambi was coming down the stairs in the parking lot and he waved. Rollie Fingers gave me and some others a graph as he was running by. Great day.

by A'sfansince1970 on Jan 13, 2005 9:49 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

zep and a's 05 hitting

i'm partial to zep III, but I and II are classics as well. and don't forget houses of the holy! yeah, i think comparing the 05 a's to the 02 angels is fair, though i think that squad had a little more pop (aside from chavez and ruby, no "threats" per se). our pitching COULD be great, depending on how heren, meyer, and blanton play this year. i don't think it'll be that bad, regardless. harden-zito is a pretty kicking 1-2 punch. zito'll bounce back this year, 'cuz: a)he's the "big one" now w/ hudson and mulder gone, and b) miller's gone, and i think he called bad games for zito.

by guy incognito on Jan 14, 2005 8:27 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

If I have to listen to 60s/70s music

Then give me The Stooges! Iggy is the man!

by AlamedaAphid on Jan 14, 2005 2:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

CCR rocks!

Any other good memories of fanfest?

by A'sfansince1970 on Jan 13, 2005 9:56 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

Funny thing about CCR

I hardly ever listen to them, unless I'm going on a long car trip. And then it's essential, because CCR is "driving music."

by bear88 on Jan 13, 2005 10:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

just make sure

nobody steals your tape deck or creedence tapes...

by xbhaskarx on Jan 13, 2005 10:30 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Creedence

Went to El Ceritto high!

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 3:43 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Jim Morrison went to Alameda High

And Carlos Santana and Jerry Garcia both went to Mission High in SF...

by AlamedaAphid on Jan 14, 2005 2:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Drew gooden

the basketball player also went to EC High.

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 3:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Or...

your briefcase...

by Vic on Jan 14, 2005 8:12 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

The fact it is a one year deal

is revealing. If Johnson can hit, and we will find out this year, then he replaces Durazo next year. Somehow they have to find 300 at bats somewhere for Johnson this year, probably spelling Durazo and Hatteberg. If he hits, then he is the new DH next year.

by china bob on Jan 14, 2005 3:46 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Or

Durazo would be used as bate in the deadline.

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 5:47 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Johnson

I agree, I think Dan Johnson will spell Hatteberg alot. Hatty wore down considerably last year, and he's not getting any younger. If Beane could just get Macha to sit Hatteberg more often by putting Dan Johnson in the lineup, Hatty will put up a career year.

by OaktownTribesman on Jan 14, 2005 7:00 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Cameron gets...

...$6.56M this year and next... while he would be a serious upgrade for our OF -- how about him in center, Kotsay in right, Thomas in left: yikes; that's a return to the Henderson/Murphy/Armas days -- I can't imagine why the A's would trade Byrnes for that upgrade at that price.

Also, the teams in baseball that have a CF better than Cameron: Atlanta and the Mets. Everyone else either desperately needs a CF, or has one, but Cameron's better than he is. You've got to figure the Mets can get a better offer somewhere.

by jrbh on Jan 14, 2005 9:51 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

Salary

On the other hand since the Mets have shown an interest in Brynes (and little baseball knowledge Kazmir trade) I could see Beane brokering a 3 way deal invloving the above 2 players.

But your right for some reason I thought his salary was closer to 4 million

Bob

ogallalabob

by ogallalabob on Jan 14, 2005 10:31 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I wonder when

the official announcement will be made.

Even with a well-placed source, I've learned that it's best to wait til the team actually announces its moves.

by OaklandSi on Jan 14, 2005 10:26 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

If this isn't true...

I'll streak naked through the Coliseum during the Yankees series. I don't say anything is official that isn't 100 percent true.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Jan 14, 2005 11:08 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Funniest

AN Quote of the Day. Congrats Blez. =)

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 11:21 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

uh oh

could the franchise withstand the crash in attendance if durazo doesn't sign??

by xbhaskarx on Jan 14, 2005 11:39 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

If Blez streaks naked

that might help attendance ;)
Seriously, I'm not doubting Blez' connections. But nothing is really done til it's announced. Even if a credible source assures us that the deal is done, wouldn't you feel better with an official announcement that the A's and Durazo have signed?

by OaklandSi on Jan 14, 2005 11:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

i believe it's done

and if it's not, it will be very soon. either way, it's nothing to lose sleep over...

by xbhaskarx on Jan 14, 2005 11:55 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Technically speaking ...

The A's resigned Durazo to a one-year contract the moment they tendered him a contract, as an arbitration eligible non-free agent.

The details of the contract did not yet exist, but him being signed to a contract was set in stone.

Relax alright don't try to strike everyone out. Strikeouts are boring besides that they're fascist. Throw some ground balls it's more democratic.

by devo on Jan 14, 2005 11:57 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks Blez for posting the official announcement

I feel better now ;)

by OaklandSi on Jan 14, 2005 3:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I feel better too...

I won't be streaking at the Coliseum in front of 50,000 fans...saving my dignity and their ability to keep their Saag's sausages down :-)

by Tyler Bleszinski on Jan 14, 2005 3:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Blez!

Im disappointed in you. There are children in this blog!

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 3:29 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

the agenda is set

I'll streak naked through the Coliseum during the Yankees series. ?I don't say anything is official that isn't 100 percent true.

Okay, next Athletics Nation BBQ will be during the Yankees series, with Blez performing one Birthday Suit lap around the upper deck. Any other agenda items?

by Apricot on Jan 14, 2005 11:59 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks...

for hosing the window with you thousand question marks!

P.M.:It must be nice to always believe you know better, to always think you're the smartest person in the room. J.C.: No. It's awful.

by McFood on Jan 14, 2005 1:52 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

This really isnt the place for this

But im really mad. Im watching PTI, and they were talking about home runs next year. They show manny hitting that game tying three run homer off zito in the playoffs, AND they follow manny walking, literally, up the basepath. That douchebag.

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 2:52 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

The press release

Also includes the A's signing of infield Bobby Smith. He's been invited to ST as a non roster player. He has good stats in AAA, but hes 30. I guess he'll be the starting shortstop in AAA, and be used instead of Scutaro as a backup infield in the majors if Ellis isn't healthy. His stats are pretty good.

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 14, 2005 3:23 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

Smith

Yeah, he put up pretty respectable numbers in AAA last year for Chicago. I wouldn't imagine he's got much of a chance to make the big league roster. More depth in the middle infield is fine with me, though.

Go Beach.

by Dirtbag Pride on Jan 14, 2005 4:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

anyboby know the $$$$$'s

on ruby's one yr.? and why am i typing 50 feet to my right?

it's OK to steal-just don't let billy see ya.

by bigelephant on Jan 14, 2005 3:33 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

Money

I was wondering as well. Anyone? I'll guess 3.9 Million.

Let's Go Oak-Land!

by Colorado Fan on Jan 14, 2005 5:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Ruby

I am 99% sure he signed for more than $3.9 million. My guess is closer to $4.5.

by rsquared on Jan 15, 2005 11:34 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Question

Would Durazo be eligible to become a free agent at the end of 2005 or would he again be eligible for arbitration, pretty much the same as at the end of 2004?

by SA on Jan 14, 2005 4:51 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

He becomes...

Free Agent, I believe. Would we get some draft picks for compensation?

Let's Go Oak-Land!

by Colorado Fan on Jan 14, 2005 5:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Yes and Yes ...

Relax alright don't try to strike everyone out. Strikeouts are boring besides that they're fascist. Throw some ground balls it's more democratic.

by devo on Jan 14, 2005 5:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Durazo's choice?

Some of the speculation has been that the A's only wanted to sign Durazo for one year. But maybe since he thinks he could cash in big next year as a free agent it was Durazo's decision to go with only one year, absent a very big offer from the A's.

by SA on Jan 14, 2005 5:30 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

if i'm durazo's agent...

...i'd at least shoot for 2 yrs minimum. i think this contract puts the pressure squarely on durazo's shoulders-which might present problems re: contract year. or, he might kick ass believing its PAYDAY! next yr which would only help the a's.

it's OK to steal-just don't let billy see ya.

by bigelephant on Jan 14, 2005 6:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Would this be considered an open thread?

Because I have a question for all of you. See if you can answer it.

Who was the first major league player to play all nine positions in one game?

Hint: He played for the A's!

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 14, 2005 9:23 PM PST reply actions 0 recs

I'll open a new thread now...

so you can discuss :-)

by Tyler Bleszinski on Jan 14, 2005 9:54 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Pretty sure it was.....

Bert "Campy" Campaneris - A's shortstop from 1964-1976. he played all 9 positions in a game on Spetember 9, 1965.

What do I win? ;-)

by nodaclu on Jan 14, 2005 10:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

woo hoo

correct! :) you win.... an online hug! >:D<

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 15, 2005 9:58 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

campy

as I recall, he pitched the eighth and got hurt catching in the ninth. that was the last time anyone (even Finley) tried that stupid experiment, tho didn't Canseco get hurt once when they brought him in to pitch in a blowout?

by vk on Jan 15, 2005 5:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I was wondering...

Why would they let a position player pitch and forfeit the DH....

Then I remembered, this was BEFORE the DH era.

"Crazy! Cool! Go!" - West Side Story

by secret ASian man on Jan 15, 2005 5:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

God

One of my stupid high school coaches played every position in a single game once. That was his entire claim to fame. That guy was such a douchebag. Thought he was a badass because he got to boss high school kids around and play backup in the below single A Sonoma County Crushers, whose claim to fame as a team is that Kevin Mitchell managed them and punched out an opposing owner.

by RichardP on Jan 17, 2005 12:36 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Hey, Blez,

What day is Erubielieta due?

Isn't it any day now?

by jrbh on Jan 16, 2005 11:30 AM PST reply actions 0 recs

January 31

it says on the diary above. awww she's gonna be a BZ lovin' baby. :)

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 16, 2005 11:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

GreenNGoldGirl

Not good news for u, u got some competition for BZ :)

"Matt Damon" World America Team Police.

by Oaklandsno1 on Jan 16, 2005 7:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

lets see.....

Erubielita is going to have an age difference of 26 years and 8 months with Barry. I, on the other hand, only have 12 years, one month and 17 days age difference with Barry. Sorry, Erubielita, but he's taken, darlin. :)

PS: Alyssa Milano was on ET on MTV this morning. I was appalled. First there was Maria Menunundos (or however you spell it) who dated Barry a couple of years ago and the the Unspeakable!!!! not a great start to my day. At least she was talking about UNICEF and helping out people who lost lives and homes in the tsunami. Eh, I still strongly dislike her.

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 16, 2005 8:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

But

Whats happens if BZ with u then changes to Blez Jr.?

"Matt Damon" World America Team Police.

by Oaklandsno1 on Jan 16, 2005 8:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not sure....

I understand what that means exactly..... :/ that confuses me.... Sorry, I'm a bit slow when I'm tired. :)

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 16, 2005 9:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

If

hes with u then once Blez Jrs ready for 'The Show' he switches over :)

"Matt Damon" World America Team Police.

by Oaklandsno1 on Jan 17, 2005 12:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Well that would mean

That Blez Jr. and Barry Zito are both gay.... Which i'm fairly sure isn't true.

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 17, 2005 4:36 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

maybe

he is. I thought Blez was having a girl lol

"Matt Damon" World America Team Police.

by Oaklandsno1 on Jan 17, 2005 5:42 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah

But a girl wouldn't be Blez Junior.

Speculation is the art of imagination

by ohad on Jan 17, 2005 12:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

But

I didnt know her name so I said Blez Jr :)

"Utah and Mars are very similar! They both are uninhabitable but some day Mars will be but I'm not so sure about Utah."

by Oaklandsno1 on Jan 17, 2005 4:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs

Blez Jr.

implies that it's a guy (or boy). Up until now, I havne't heard of a girl named ____ Jr. If you didn't know her name, why didn't you just say Baby Girl Blez? That's what they're gonna put on the little pink card at the hospital. At least before they name her. That's kind of funny though. Erubielita Blezinski Jr. Wait.... wouldn't her name have to be Tyler?

My best friend- "I can't wait to go to A's games again! then i can be like...look at Crosby's buns... i mean... look at crosby run!"

by GreenNGoldGirl on Jan 17, 2005 7:14 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs