Knockout

by Tyler Bleszinski on May 2, 2006 4:03 PM PDT in News

Tale of the tape: Jason Kendall - 6'0", 205 pounds and John "Slingblade" Lackey - 6'6", 235. Advantage: Kendall on the takedown even while being tackled from behind by Jeff Mathis.

In all seriousness, it's a shame that this game will be overshadowed by Jason Kendall's decision to charge the mound. Because really, there are a lot of guys who deserve to be recognized for something other than pugilism today. Don't get me wrong, I love some good fire and even some fisticuffs. Remember, I love hockey, used to play hockey and once broke an opponents' nose by beating him with his own helmet. It's not something I'm proud of, but I understand why these moments happen in sports. Tempers are high, things are said or done and you react in the moment. And the truth is, I also understand why these moments get replayed on SportsCenter and news shows repeatedly. With all apologies to Rodney Dangerfield, it's not every day that you go to a wrestling match and a baseball game breaks out. And one of my biggest complaints about Macha and company over the past few seasons has been that they don't show enough passion. Well, after today thanks to Kendall (offensive warts and all), you can't really make that argument anymore.

As for the rivalry, it is really gaining steam and is becoming a mini-version of the . Not just Kendall's charging the mound, but with Gaudin hitting Robb Quinlan it's going to continue to get more interesting. It's given us A's fans some great moments over the past couple of seasons with the Shields bunt throw into the pen and Swisher coming around to score, the sulk-off and Bobby Kielty's bomb off K-Rod last year. It's only going to get better, I suppose.

As for the game itself, Eric Chavez started the game off the right way with a three-run bomb to take a little heat of Ballsy Halsey. I do think Macha made a mistake in leaving Halsey in to pitch against Guerrero. Seriously, Halsey hadn't been a starting pitcher this season and wasn't stretched out. Accept his great five innings, say thank you and then use the pen. Especially because Guerrero loves to hit lefties with offspeed stuff (see Moyer, Jamie). You need someone to bust Guerrero inside with fastballs.

Also, I was surprised to see Street in the game in the seventh when Macha said yesterday that he didn't want to break Huston in in a pressure-packed situation. It was 4-3 at the time. Any way, the bullpen did an excellent job once again and the offense woke up against Bootcheck. Thomas had a good day yesterday with the three walks and his hit today officially opened the game up. Crosby's bomb was a nice crowning touch. Duke once again pitched the highest leverage inning facing the heart of the order.

This puts the A's up 2.5 games over the Angels early and they have now won a season-high five games in a row. Lucky for you, I'm traveling the rest of this week for business so you're getting a healthy dose of Nico for the next four days.

By the way, I just saw the brawl for the first time on SportsCenter and I've gotta give Kendall a 9.5 for the takedown and the A's a "10" for the two-game series sweep.

Don't forget tomorrow at noon is the deadline to get your payment in for tickets for AN Day 3.0.

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Comments

all the credit for the win goes to oaktoon

as soon as he sensed an angels victory, i knew the a's would win.

http://www.athleticsnation.com/comments/2006/5/2/165328/6722/337#337

A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05

by xbhaskarx on May 2, 2006 4:06 PM PDT reply actions

Vintage Oaktoona!

That is so classic.

We need to dig up the old, "Oaktoon captain of the titanic skit" that Monkeyball wrote last year...

"Macha, Howe...whatever." --salb918

by BruceBochte on May 2, 2006 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions

I see he's been promoted ...

http://www.athleticsnation.com/comments/2005/9/21/20723/0326/38#38

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 2, 2006 4:11 PM PDT up reply actions

Still brilliant!

After all these months...

"Macha, Howe...whatever." --salb918

by BruceBochte on May 2, 2006 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions

monkeyman,

you were in rare form with that one. Bullseye!

I miss Bill King.

by Checkswing HR on May 2, 2006 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions

missed it back then

great stuff

To be hit by Moriyama's fastball is an honor exceeded only by being crushed under the wheels of the imperial carriage

by elcroata on May 2, 2006 10:35 PM PDT up reply actions

I'll keep "sensing" dem defeats.. OK??

If that's what it staked I'm totally willing to fall on my sword. Every dang day.

oaktoon

by oaktoon on May 3, 2006 9:16 AM PDT up reply actions

it "takes"

oaktoon

by oaktoon on May 3, 2006 9:16 AM PDT up reply actions

This was a great AN game

For those of us stuck at the office, it's great to have a community like this to enjoy such a thrilling game - from the odd "Delay" during Kendall's at bat, to the bombs by Chavez and Crosby, and great pitching by Halsey.

Of course, I would pay money for the dirt on Blez beating that hockey player.

Anybody suspect the ANtics will ever show Kendall beating an Angels player? Nah... will never happen... or will it?

More ANtics: http://www.louisgray.com/live/ | Archive

by louismg on May 2, 2006 4:06 PM PDT reply actions

And will it really be Kendall?

:-D

I just gave birth to twins!!! JayPay and Joe K. are the fathers!!!! ~~ McFood

by Poppy on May 2, 2006 4:49 PM PDT up reply actions

May the gypsy plaguing Loaiza

find you as well. :-)

More ANtics: http://www.louisgray.com/live/ | Archive

by louismg on May 2, 2006 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions

Good win, but...

...I hope people don't try to draw parallels between the "fight" and any sort of "spark" for the team as a whole.

I remember last year, Hatteberg's 9th inning single off of K-Rod in April was supposed to be the "spark" and the A's went out and had a horrible May.

Then, Kendall's suicide dive at home plate against Texas in July was supposed to the spark, no, wait, it was Kendall's head's up play scoring from third off of K-Rod in August...

Bottom line, momentum in baseball is equal to whoever your starting pitcher is that night. Today is still just one win...just one win that might get us closer to the top-of-the-hour highlights on Sportscenter.

by Aaron C on May 2, 2006 4:08 PM PDT reply actions

while you may be right

I still like thinking that this is the spark that is going to lead to a 140-12 season.

"Mommy and Daddy are going to take a nap before the baseball game starts..."

by Athletics fan and runner on May 2, 2006 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions

what happened to the other 10 games?

by TheCatch on May 2, 2006 4:45 PM PDT up reply actions

Rained out.

Giants fans are fighting back. I'm now hearing "Let's Go Shopping!"- jeepers

by baseballgirl on May 2, 2006 4:46 PM PDT up reply actions

D'oh

ummmm

The rest of the league gave up because the A's kicked so much ass.

"Mommy and Daddy are going to take a nap before the baseball game starts..."

by Athletics fan and runner on May 2, 2006 8:23 PM PDT up reply actions

140-12?

What - are the A's going to get the month of September off?

With 21 bombs in his rookie year, look for 42 jacks in '06, and 105 round trippers by 2009. - Baseball-Reference.Com

by NicksDreamy on May 2, 2006 4:47 PM PDT up reply actions

Jennifer ate the other 10

by theblackpearl on May 2, 2006 4:52 PM PDT up reply actions

Nice.

With 21 bombs in his rookie year, look for 42 jacks in '06, and 105 round trippers by 2009. - Baseball-Reference.Com

by NicksDreamy on May 5, 2006 5:15 PM PDT up reply actions

24 hour refresher

Until I heard of the Kendall take down I thought this game was just plain, but I think we got a real rivarly building up between these two teams. I can't believe this stat but Swisher and Chavez have combined for 20 HR's and 48 RBI, wow.

"Just throw strikes. I don't understand why that can't happen. You have a three-run lead. Just throw strikes."- Josh Lyman

by doublehustle22 on May 2, 2006 4:08 PM PDT reply actions

Those are Ortiz/Manny

numbers right there.

by Tyler Bleszinski on May 2, 2006 4:11 PM PDT up reply actions

There were a lot of crazy things that went down...

I was at the game, drove 3 hours south and it was worth every minute. Chavez doubled up Salmon after having the ball stuck in his webbing (longest double play I've ever witnessed, the stadium incl. players just stood there like deer in headlights) Ronnie Mac's goofy dive. Macha had a terrific move subbing Dan Johnson out at 3rd base for Kotsay who barely beat the thrown home by Vlad. (DJ never would've gotten there in time to make Mathis drop the ball) It was an amazing day to skip school and road trip. Esp. hearing the Oakland chants at the end of the game with all the drunk (only a handful around us) Angel fans calling the A's the Oakland Homo's. Such a proud day in baseball... esp. when Socisia got tossed for Gaudin not trying to tag Quinlan. (0-2 bottom of ninth, 2 outs... we all wanted to go home, not watch him get beaned)

"I see Milton Bradley being the Oaktown player that breaks out this year." breaks out... breaks out of where? jail?

by gdub171 on May 3, 2006 2:14 PM PDT up reply actions

Baseball fight

I was in a baseball fight last season. I was on first base having singled and our hitter hit a ball towards the hole at short and there was a bang bang play at 2nd. I was called out and I argued for a bit. Then as I was trotting back to the 3rd base dugout the other team's third baseman chirped at me a little, "It was not even close." I responded with something like, "Was I talking to you?!!??!!" He shoved me, I punched him in the ear, baseball fight gesticulation ensued. I was ejected and suspended for a game as was the other team's thirdbaseman.

How about frank thomas today? That hit in the 8th was huge. I am glad to see him turning it around. I do not think that it is a coincidense that the recent good road trip has come with the resurgence of Dan Johnson and big frank. Duh...

"Mommy and Daddy are going to take a nap before the baseball game starts..."

by Athletics fan and runner on May 2, 2006 4:12 PM PDT reply actions

I got in a SOFTBALL fight once

and after it was over I thought it was the stupidest thing I'd ever done.

"Macha, Howe...whatever." --salb918

by BruceBochte on May 2, 2006 4:15 PM PDT up reply actions

Softball fights are lame.

You can throw punches, but only underhand.

Can intangibles exist? Only the ones you can touch.

by salb918 on May 2, 2006 4:29 PM PDT up reply actions

maybe you have short arms, Sal, but ...

... underhand punches scare me more than overhand (or sidearm) ones ...

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 2, 2006 4:34 PM PDT up reply actions

ahahahahahahaha

underhand...ahahahahahaha

President of the Brent Gates Fan Club

by SoCal As Fan on May 2, 2006 4:34 PM PDT up reply actions

Worse yet, underleg punches.

Hurts more to give one than receive one.

"ESPN is still replaying the Barry Bonds homer in Colorado like it was hit with a flaming toothpick by a guy in a wheelchair." - HollywoodOz

by McFood on May 2, 2006 10:48 PM PDT up reply actions

or, for that matter, underpeg lunches

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 3, 2006 12:22 PM PDT up reply actions

Reminds of that author they talked about in

The Music Man. Who was that again...

Oh yeah....

Balsac!

"ESPN is still replaying the Barry Bonds homer in Colorado like it was hit with a flaming toothpick by a guy in a wheelchair." - HollywoodOz

by McFood on May 3, 2006 3:44 PM PDT up reply actions

not baseball-related

I was out doing yardwork one time and got into it with a rake. I stepped on the end of it, then it hit me in the face, therefore I retaliated by throwing it down and whaddya know... it somehow bounced around and got me again. The End.

Your story was much better.

"If you're surprised by getting the job done, that means you didn't expect it out of yourself." -Huston Street

by ohtobe21likehuston on May 2, 2006 5:26 PM PDT up reply actions

yeah must be going around

I just got into it with a plate of take-out

by OaklandSi on May 2, 2006 5:52 PM PDT up reply actions

The most decisive moment in the game,

it seems to me, was Whiny Mike replacing Yan with Romero.

Yan was DEALING (after lights-outedness last night, too) and it made absolutely no sense to take him out. Apres Yan, le deluge.

I miss Bill King.

by Checkswing HR on May 2, 2006 4:14 PM PDT reply actions

no offense, Blez, but ...

<Yan>

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 2, 2006 4:18 PM PDT up reply actions

Street

I thought that was a good time to use Street. Even though it was a close game, he was facing the bottom of the order, and might have gotten away with not having his best stuff. Hopefully the A's liked what they saw, and will be able to use him in more crucial situations in the next few days. Duke's done a great job, but it really does make a big difference to have two guys that you can feel comfortable using in the high-leverage innings, rather than just one.

There is a limit to an intelligent person's enjoyment of the irony of being regarded as an imbecile by fools. And it is soon reached. -Wm. Gerhardie

by andeux on May 2, 2006 4:15 PM PDT reply actions

Hmmm.

I just posted a diary about the fight as this was being posted on the front page. I really don't understand the enthusiasm about it at all.

Shameless diary promotion:
Why such enthusiasm for the fight?

Nothing says fun like Premium Meat!

by lurkerD on May 2, 2006 4:16 PM PDT reply actions

Street Returns!

So when should have Macha used him? Today, I think it was the perfect time. We knew the bullpen was going to be used, the question was how much? The last thing we wanted to see was Street's confidence shattered. He pitched in an inning where the game was still in check. Macha (brilliantly) placed him against the mid to last 3rd of the lineup which meant he didn't have to potentially get thrown out of rythm against Figgins and face the heart (or lack therof) of their lineup. If he came in later, it would have been meaningless, especially by the 9th inning.
So now maybe we can see some normalcy return to the bullpen and staff. We're going to need it especially with a tough 'Tribe coming to invade. Go A's!!

"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 May 2, 2006 4:21 PM PDT reply actions

Nice Job Macha!!!

I know there are alot of "FIRE MACHA NOW!!" comments here (most of them are sarcastic, I think), but I think he managed the game to near perfection today. Some would say that he left Halsey in there for too long. But he was really cruising through 5 innings. As soon as Vlad hit it out, Halsey was taken out IMMEDIATLEY. Everyone knew that Halsey is not stretched out as a starter at the moment, so Macha took him out after 73 pitches (I think). Rather than take his chances and hope that Halsey can finish the 6th.
Also, there has been alot of talk about how "saves" is an overrated stat. Macha said that he wanted to bring Street in a not very presssure packed situation. Street faced the bottom of the order, and did his thing. Point is, Macha wanted to have his "best reliever" for the moment Justin Duchsherer to face the top of the Angels order. He got Figgins, and also got Guerrero in a heart-pounding fashion.
Finally, Macha brings in Kotsay to pinch-run for DJ in the 9th. Although the throw home beat Kotsay by 5 or 6 feet, sending a faster runner to try to beat Guerrero's cannon arm triggered that big inning. If DJ stays there, he won't even be sent home after the flyout. And the A's might not have as big of an inning as they did IMO.

It is inevitable, the Green and Gold will rise once again as World Series Champions!!

by Omid on May 2, 2006 4:39 PM PDT up reply actions

Tired of Jay Pay in the 6 hole

He really shouldn't be hitting any higher than 8 or nine, particularly now that Kendall will likely get a multi-game suspension.

Hope Bradley gets well soon. Love his ability to get on base. I'd still like to see him in the 3 hole at some point this year. Doesn't seem fair that he's been stuck behind Big Hurt clogging the bases.

"Macha, Howe...whatever." --salb918

by BruceBochte on May 2, 2006 4:28 PM PDT reply actions

Jay Payton hitting?

He hasn't been hitting no matter where he's in the lineup. He's a defensive replacement to keep Kotsay's back from popping out of place diving for balls in the 8th inning of 9-4 games.

With 21 bombs in his rookie year, look for 42 jacks in '06, and 105 round trippers by 2009. - Baseball-Reference.Com

by NicksDreamy on May 2, 2006 4:50 PM PDT up reply actions

Lucky to get a good dose of Nico? Hah!

the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005 But will 2006 do the trix?

by ak_A on May 2, 2006 4:33 PM PDT reply actions

Great game.

It warms my heart to see Thomas get hits. Every one is like Christmas.

And freakin' Chavez is an absolute MONSTER, I was actually shocked that Swisher didn't match him with a HR today. Love to see him starting May like he ended April.

Crosby getting a HR? Also a nice touch -- hell, this was a story of the whole team, from Kielty's nice catch to the hits to that amazing pitching. I mean, STREET IS BACK. HOLY CRAP. THIS IS GOOD, SO MUCH GOOD.

I like Halsey, I was worried going into today, but this was a great way to get him started in the rotation. I'm so happy to see him do well, a HR to Vlad is an understandable thing. Great to see the kid start off with a win given the crap our starters often go through in terms of support.

Winning against the Angels is HUGE, no matter what month it is. This was a great game for the team.

And Kendall just had to remind us that he is the true, tough badass of the team now that Chavy's seeming a little more hardcore. Maybe he lost a bet with Melhuse, and his payment was to get suspended to Macha HAS to play him?

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on May 2, 2006 4:35 PM PDT reply actions

he's one tough, badass GIDP machine, alright

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 2, 2006 4:36 PM PDT up reply actions

Mrs. Ice Cream asks...

shouldn't it be GPID (Grinds Pitcher Into Dirt)?

Bubblegum

by Ice Cream on May 2, 2006 4:42 PM PDT up reply actions

Goes Petulantly Into Dugout?

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 2, 2006 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions

My personal theory

Kendall did his aggro-psycho-dude act hoping to get ejected and suspended, no doubt in response to word from A's brass that Melhuse was about to start getting more playing time due to a certain gritty/clutchy/hearty catcher's intangible batting average. Much more macho to be sitting on the bench because you went off on some guy who dissed you ("Hey, he started it!") than to be there because you're not hitting well and need to sort out the problem.

Looking at the photos of the fight, I see Frank Thomas involved near the center of the action. Arrghh! It makes me nervous just to see him stand up, with zip-ties, duct-tape, and Bondo repairs straining in his feet and ankles, pop-rivets flying and so on... but to see him get injured in a stupid baseball fight would be absolutely maddening!

6/6/06 - National Day of Slayer

by AlamedaAphid on May 2, 2006 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions

not an unreasonable theory

Could Kendall have been part of yesterday's discussion btw Macha and Beane?

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 2, 2006 4:53 PM PDT up reply actions

It scared me with Big Frank out there

but then I looked at him compared to everyone else and realized they were just bouncing off him.

The cave troll scene in LotR? Yeah. Like that.

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on May 2, 2006 9:55 PM PDT up reply actions

one tough, badass GIDP, HBP-RBI machine

Let's get it right now. :)

by Wooka on May 2, 2006 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions

What a fight!

I just got home and quickly fast forwarded to the fight between Kendall and Lackey. WOW! Now that's baseball. I now know what Rex Huddler is good for, Lip Reader. He told me exactly what Lackey said and then told me to 'watch Lackey's lips' he then proceeded to read the lips of Kendall but he left a few words out, lucky for me I too am a lip reader.

A couple of observations 1) I was scared to see Street run out there and Crosby trying to pull people apart. They could have reinjuried themselves. 2) I liked seeing Swisher help Kendall out and 3) was waiting for Ken and Mike to rumble. Great win today.

hookem street

by hookem street on May 2, 2006 4:35 PM PDT reply actions

So, what'd they say?

Inquiring minds want to know what the lip reading reveals. Abbreviate any profanity if necessary. <g>

I just saw the clip on Sports Center, but it was in a bar with the sound off.

by SF4As on May 2, 2006 4:46 PM PDT up reply actions

Since the pitch was inside

Lackey said, "Stick that thing out there" referring to Kendall's elbow. Kendall was not even looking at him until Lackey gave him that comment. Kendall replied by saying, (as interpreted by Huddler, "What? you have a problem with me?) What Kendall actually said was "What's your f***in problem?" and proceeded to take Lackey down.

hookem street

by hookem street on May 2, 2006 4:58 PM PDT up reply actions

if that's all that was said, on either side ...

... then I'm even more entrenched in my opinion that Kendall was in the wrong.

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 2, 2006 5:27 PM PDT up reply actions

Kendall was wrong

but he did the A's a favor. He would have hit into the DP the Melhuse just beat out!

Why yes. I am a ray of warm and fuzzy sunshine.

by grover on May 2, 2006 5:29 PM PDT up reply actions

Despite your fantasy drafting skills, I disagree.

Lackey was talking smack unnecessarily. He deserved to get his assed kicked. Kendall did so. Could Kendall have been the "bigger man" and ignored it? Yes, but to say he was in the wrong is putting too much blame on him...I mean Lackey started it. ;)

"Don't you play the flute, Huddy?"

by capper3 on May 2, 2006 8:02 PM PDT up reply actions

I think Kendall

might be a bit sensitive about his elbow brace. When he was on the Pirates he charged the mound against Joe Kennedy when he was on the Rockies for the same thing. It was an inside pitch and Kendall let it hit him. Joe remarked about it and Kendall charged. I guess he doesn't like people making fun of his brace. lol

by Cornelius on May 2, 2006 8:26 PM PDT up reply actions

Brainwashing?

A Zoolander-esque moment where Kendall has been conditioned to flip out when someone mentions the you-know-what? (the eyes of Kendall are upon us)

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on May 2, 2006 9:56 PM PDT up reply actions

Relax!

the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005 But will 2006 do the trix?

by ak_A on May 2, 2006 11:07 PM PDT up reply actions

I don't care who started it

I don't care how anyone wants to devy up the blame.

I'm just glab Kendall didn't get to finish that AB with one of his pattented DP.

Why yes. I am a ray of warm and fuzzy sunshine.

by grover on May 3, 2006 6:16 AM PDT up reply actions

Kendall wasn't wrong

what he did might not have been very smart either, but it definately wasn't wrong. if lackey's gonna say something, then he's got to be man enough to back it up. don't be bitching and talking smack if u're afraid of facing the man u're saying it about. anytime u're talking the way lackey was, then that's basically asking for what Kendall gave him.

"Apparently there's a rule that you have to be old enough to drive yourself to the induction ceremony. So obviously that's not gonna work."

by F171615 on May 3, 2006 1:21 AM PDT up reply actions

Kendall showed less maturity

than could be found in the very worst grover-oaktoon exchange.

That's bad.

Why yes. I am a ray of warm and fuzzy sunshine.

by grover on May 3, 2006 6:15 AM PDT up reply actions

or, for that matter ...

... the worst xslingbladex-monkeyball exchange ...

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 3, 2006 12:23 PM PDT up reply actions

what did lackey say?

by jaacee007 on May 2, 2006 4:59 PM PDT up reply actions

Lackey said...

"I shore do like them there 'taters...Mmmm huh."
Kendall thought he was making fun of his lack of home run production...and then it was ON!

"ESPN is still replaying the Barry Bonds homer in Colorado like it was hit with a flaming toothpick by a guy in a wheelchair." - HollywoodOz

by McFood on May 2, 2006 10:58 PM PDT up reply actions

angel stadium

i remember last year someone giving a synopsis on how ridiculous angel stadium is. we got to experience one of the points that he made today. in a brawl, the bullpens come running out side by side to get involved in the scuffle in the diamond.

"Apparently there's a rule that you have to be old enough to drive yourself to the induction ceremony. So obviously that's not gonna work."

by F171615 on May 2, 2006 4:42 PM PDT reply actions

wash to the rescue! (background)

by gotgreen on May 2, 2006 4:42 PM PDT reply actions

People at work must think I am crazy!!!

I have been going nuts all afternoon, then after about 3:30, I am walking around here with this doofy smile on my face! I think I totally squacked when I heard Kendall charged the mound. Then I started jumping up and down in my cube when Bobby hit his homer!!

I really think that it should be illegal for them to NOT televise A's/Angels games. They would NEVER consider not televising BoSox/Yanks games!! I mean, all the really crazy games come on days when they are not on TV. It is just wrong!

This was a great game and I really think this just might be a sign of many things to come.

Halsey was impressive. Even though he only went a little less than 6, he still came through.
Chavey's 200 Homers! So proud!!
Some good, timely walks!
Thomas coming through in a clutch moment, finally!
Bobby!! LOVE HIM!! Home Run!! LOVE HIM!!

I really hope that we can keep some of this momentum moving through May, if we do, this season is going to be a thing of beauty!

"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 May 2, 2006 4:48 PM PDT reply actions

Umm...can you explain what...

...squacking is?

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

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on May 2, 2006 6:55 PM PDT up reply actions

If you have to ask, you'll never know

by green star oakland on May 2, 2006 7:32 PM PDT up reply actions

Further proof that

the best A's games aren't televised.

When they're on ESPN, they get burned. When they're not even on TV, they rule the world. Cancel the broadcasting contracts and they'll go 162-0.

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on May 2, 2006 9:57 PM PDT up reply actions

Will this latest game, the sulk-off game, etc

convince ESPN to carry future matchups? They should. All the A's-Angels games so far this year have been close.

Meanwhile, BOS-NY was rained out. I insist that ESPN give us a blow-by-blow description of every raindrop. And shots of Mirabelli climbing into a taxi, coming out of the john, etc.

I miss Bill King.

by Checkswing HR on May 2, 2006 10:48 PM PDT up reply actions

Top trivia

Chris Bootcheck (he of the 54.00 ERA) was drafted by the Angels in 2000 using the pick they received from the A's for signing Mike Magnante before the arbitration deadline.

by green star oakland on May 2, 2006 4:54 PM PDT reply actions

How "Magnanimous" of them

To send Bootcheck out there in the ninth.

"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 May 2, 2006 5:03 PM PDT up reply actions

Bootcheck

If I'm not mistaken, Bootcheck's first ever start was against our A's back in 03 or 04. I'm pretty sure we scored 8 or 9 runs off of him during one of our patented late summer tears.

by Crosbino on May 2, 2006 5:03 PM PDT up reply actions

Aha!

I was totally right.

Sept. 9, 2003. 8-1 A's. Our starting pitcher that day? Justin Duchscherer.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/boxscore?gameId=230909111

by Crosbino on May 2, 2006 5:06 PM PDT up reply actions

And look

our shortstop hit a 3-run bomb off him that day too !

by green star oakland on May 2, 2006 5:31 PM PDT up reply actions

Now that's an FA signing that is still

paying dividends!

"Macha, Howe...whatever." --salb918

by BruceBochte on May 2, 2006 5:09 PM PDT up reply actions

I made this icon last year for LJ

YAYYYY FOR BRAD HALSEY! I'm going to have to catch the recap later (at a meeting right now actually) but it was a great game to follow even on gameday ;)

The rain soaked patrons reveled in thier victory and the shortest man on the field stood taller than Randy 'The' Johnson." - Saint

by Melody on May 2, 2006 5:10 PM PDT reply actions

Pretty icon!

Great LJ icon! I don't have one of Brad, mainly team icons. I really like Halsey, we definitely need him in AZ... but Cruz aint to shabby.

I love how both were bullpen guys (Halsey converted) and now both are sttarters! :)

by snakecharmer on May 2, 2006 8:15 PM PDT up reply actions

Seems as though Lackey is cool with fight

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2006/05/02/sports/s154542D11.DTL

Lackey admits that Kendall was the victor. Now both will prolly get suspensions.

It's Lehmer's Concord Pontiac GMC Broadcast booth!

by OaktownRajah on May 2, 2006 5:12 PM PDT reply actions

Also kind of funny that Jason Kendall...

was in a brawl with Joe Kennedy about the same thing.

I wonder how many brawls Craig Biggio has been in.

It's Lehmer's Concord Pontiac GMC Broadcast booth!

by OaktownRajah on May 2, 2006 5:14 PM PDT up reply actions

I love this part about Kendall's history

This wasn't the first time Kendall has charged the mound after a pitcher complained about his leaning over the plate. It happened two years ago with current teammate Joe Kennedy while Kennedy was pitching for Colorado and Kendall was playing for Pittsburgh.

"It was kind of the same situation as today," Kennedy said. "No one really knew why it happened, but it was pretty similar. I threw a 1-2 fastball over the plate, and he leaned over and got hit by it. I told him, `Next time get out of the way,' and he came at me.

"When I was running out there today, I was like, `Hey, I've done this before with Jason.' But I was out of breath by the time I got there, so I wouldn't have been able to do much."

"It was an incredible catch, but I didn't really like his footwork." - Ken Macha

by secret ASian man on May 2, 2006 5:16 PM PDT up reply actions

I guess that's why he's a pitcher

and not our top base stealer.

"No matter what I talk about, I always get back to baseball." -- Connie Mack

by GreenSocks on May 2, 2006 5:18 PM PDT up reply actions

Hilarious.

I was hoping there'd be a Kennedy comment! That's awesome.

I love watching relievers run.

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on May 2, 2006 10:00 PM PDT up reply actions

I love watching runners relieve

Wait. That doesn't sound right.

Shut, shut, shut your cold, mean mouth! - Poppy @('.')@

by monkeyball on May 3, 2006 12:25 PM PDT up reply actions

good article

by Alejandro on May 2, 2006 5:20 PM PDT up reply actions

Angel's-A's Fracas video is up!

http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/index.jsp?c_id=oak

It's Lehmer's Concord Pontiac GMC Broadcast booth!

by OaktownRajah on May 2, 2006 5:24 PM PDT reply actions

Yeah...

I'm not sure if this is good for ball.

It's Lehmer's Concord Pontiac GMC Broadcast booth!

by OaktownRajah on May 2, 2006 5:26 PM PDT up reply actions

Yeah...

I'm not sure if this is good for ball.

It's Lehmer's Concord Pontiac GMC Broadcast booth!

by OaktownRajah on May 2, 2006 5:26 PM PDT up reply actions

What? Could you repeat that, please?

"Don't you play the flute, Huddy?"

by capper3 on May 2, 2006 8:07 PM PDT up reply actions

Slingblade

This is dumb art so I didn't post it when I made it last season, but after today, why not. It's the only Slingblade pic I have.

http://idisk.mac.com/pfaelzer/Public/slingblade_angels.jpg

Also, it's a good time to remind ANers of the AN Art web page. This started last year. Got Whiny Mike in there, and "Just Chone It" too, plus a lot of other good stuff. Check it out at

http://homepage.mac.com/pfaelzer/AN_ARTWORK/PhotoAlbum10.html

and don't forget to send in your A's or AN artwork too!

by Dan_Honolulu on May 2, 2006 5:27 PM PDT reply actions

Cool Artwork page

I didn't even know that existed! :)

I just gave birth to twins!!! JayPay and Joe K. are the fathers!!!! ~~ McFood

by Poppy on May 2, 2006 5:42 PM PDT up reply actions

Wait

how did Lackey suddenly become a lefty? :-)

by Tyler Bleszinski on May 2, 2006 6:00 PM PDT up reply actions

It's ART, Man!

I can't believe all of my sacrifice, my sweat and blood, those cold nights painting by candlelight in an damp attic in Paris, and those cold mornings begging for food from my hateful landlady...

Awww, what the heck.

The picture would have looked stupid if Lackey was facing away from the bridge.

by Dan_Honolulu on May 2, 2006 6:09 PM PDT up reply actions

so you could reverse lackey

but not the bridge?

good choice, people might notice if that bridge was turned around and on the right side instead of the left.

A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05

by xbhaskarx on May 2, 2006 6:47 PM PDT up reply actions

question for you pitching experts

contrary to what Blez mentioned in the lead post, I'm pretty sure that Halsey had been stretched out as a starter by the Diamondbacks and was starting in Sacramento when he was called up. In fact I think Macha had made some comment about wanting an extra starter in case they had rained out games that first week and needed to play a double-header, and Halsey was starting in Sacto.

If I'm wrong then just forget it. But if I'm right, how long does it take for a pitcher who has gotten stretched out to get unstretched if he's put into the bullpen?

by OaklandSi on May 2, 2006 5:55 PM PDT reply actions

Yeah, but when you're not used to starting

it takes time to get stretched out, at least that's everything I've read.

I know he was starting with the D'Backs, but that was over a month ago and he never started with the A's. Maybe it's easier than thought, but regardless, I still think Halsey shouldn't have faced Vlad there.

by Tyler Bleszinski on May 2, 2006 6:00 PM PDT up reply actions

Halsey and Gaudin

Halsey was (I think) used as a starter in spring training for the Dbacks, but has been a reliever with the A's since the regular season started.

Gaudin is the one who was starting in AAA.

There is a limit to an intelligent person's enjoyment of the irony of being regarded as an imbecile by fools. And it is soon reached. -Wm. Gerhardie

by andeux on May 2, 2006 6:04 PM PDT up reply actions

you're right

Halsey had been stretched out as a starter by the D-Backs. He was called up to the A's right at the start of the season in part because of that. So he never did pitch in Sacto, that was Gaudin.

So my question still stands: does anyone know how long it takes before a pitcher who was considered "stretched out" in early April should no longer be considered so?

by OaklandSi on May 2, 2006 7:12 PM PDT up reply actions

So I'm pretty much in shock.

I left right after the bottom of the 8th, when the score was 4-3 and we were all barely breathing, and I just got back to see a final score of 10-3. What the heck happened in the 9th inning? This team is insane. This game was insane. And that clip of Kendall charging the mound-- no words. Just wow.

Okay, that's all.

by whiteshoes40 on May 2, 2006 6:01 PM PDT reply actions

Try and figure this one out

How exactly do the Angels get even with Kendall? By hitting him?

Also, can God microwave a burrito so hot that even he cannot eat it?

I miss Bill King :(

by gojohn10 on May 2, 2006 6:27 PM PDT reply actions

haha..the kendall one..so funny but true :D

by AmazingAs on May 2, 2006 6:33 PM PDT up reply actions

OT: Pujols is Human!

http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20060502&content_id=1429146&vkey=news_mlb &fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

It's Lehmer's Concord Pontiac GMC Broadcast booth!

by OaktownRajah on May 2, 2006 7:02 PM PDT reply actions

He was cursed

By an evil demonic figure of extreme hatefulness. Probably a Cub.

by Squeaky on May 2, 2006 7:12 PM PDT up reply actions

What's ironic...

...was that the bottom of the 9th was probably the least pressure-packed inning in the game.

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

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on May 2, 2006 7:08 PM PDT reply actions

YOU TAPPED OUT!

Kendall knew what he was doing with that choke/headlock thing. Its a move you'll see in UFC.

Lackey was tapping out!

by signmebilly on May 2, 2006 7:42 PM PDT reply actions

Hey, let's defer to the experts--

If anyone knows everything there is to know about tapping out, I'm gonna say it's Jason Kendall.

by Nico on May 2, 2006 10:32 PM PDT up reply actions

so was he hurt?

B-Ball Tonight showed Swisher leading Kendall off the field holding Jason's arm. I wonder if he was injured in the altercation.

by kimnjerry on May 2, 2006 7:46 PM PDT reply actions

nope

i think he was just trying to lead him away from lackey et al.

There's no crying in baseball!

by gigglingone on May 2, 2006 10:09 PM PDT up reply actions

Rivalries and Street

As someone at the game (decked out in A's gear), I can tell you I definitely felt a change in the crowd's attitude after that brawl. Thank the maker 90% of em left before we plunked Quinlan.

And I disagree that Macha made a mistake by bringing in Street in the 7th. He was facing some real patsies.

Angels order is so bad after No. 4 -- I seriously don't think the Angels will be in the playoff race this year. I've got tix to the last series of the year at Anaheim too -- am thinking those tix may be worthless....

by waltweissforever on May 2, 2006 9:17 PM PDT reply actions

For those who haven't seen it...

Here's a video of the fracas between Kendall and Lackey form today's game.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbkwJKgwQlM

--Nebraska--

ThePastime

by Ryan Armbrust on May 2, 2006 10:32 PM PDT reply actions

I think

Kendall's best move would have been to bark something back at Lackey, then step back in the box and smoke a single up the middle. Sure, by charging the mound he showed everyone that he's not one to back down from a confrontation. What he didn't show, however, was that he's capable of driving in a few runs in a key situation.

by OaklandA23 on May 2, 2006 10:48 PM PDT reply actions

Now I really

want to bring a 'Scioscia Hates Jesus' sign to the Coliseum. I wanna see if he'll charge me, so Kendall can kick his ass! :-)

Dream large, they said... and they were right.

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on May 2, 2006 11:16 PM PDT reply actions

Scioscia does hate Jesus

Why else would he bitch and moan about Huston wearing his WWJD bracelet?

"It was an incredible catch, but I didn't really like his footwork." - Ken Macha

by secret ASian man on May 2, 2006 11:33 PM PDT up reply actions

Exactly.

"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on May 3, 2006 6:54 AM PDT up reply actions

my respect for jason kendall

is at unprecedented levels.

somebody needs to make a video compilation of all the big kendall moments against our division rivals, i think this is #4.

i think he has to be getting in the heads of the angels players at this point.

A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05

by xbhaskarx on May 3, 2006 2:34 AM PDT reply actions

I was working and only heard part of the game

I heard on the radio from the pileup in the 6th until the bottom of the 8th. It was 4-3 at that point. the next thing I heard was the postgame show, and it was 10-3!!! I would appreciate if someone could summarize what happened in the top of the ninth (and who the heck is Bootchick?)

by OaklandSi on May 3, 2006 6:36 AM PDT reply actions

Gameday recap of Top 9th...

Top 9TH B:0 S:0 O:0
Pitcher Change: J. Romero replaces Esteban Yan.

Top 9TH B:0 S:0 O:0
Dan Johnson doubles (3) on a fly ball to center fielder Chone Figgins.

Top 9TH B:0 S:1 O:1
Adam Melhuse grounds out, shortstop Orlando Cabrera to first baseman Robb Quinlan.

Top 9TH B:4 S:1 O:1
Bobby Kielty walks.

Top 9TH B:3 S:2 O:1
Mark Ellis hit by pitch. Dan Johnson to 3rd. Bobby Kielty to 2nd.

Top 9TH B:0 S:0 O:1
Offensive Substitution: Pinch runner Mark Kotsay replaces Dan Johnson.

Top 9TH B:0 S:0 O:2
Nick Swisher out on a sacrifice fly to right fielder Vladimir Guerrero. Mark Kotsay scores. Bobby Kielty to 3rd. Mark Ellis to 2nd on the throw.

Top 9TH B:4 S:1 O:2
Eric Chavez walks.

Top 9TH B:0 S:0 O:2
Pitcher Change: Chris Bootcheck replaces J. Romero.

Top 9TH B:1 S:2 O:2
Frank Thomas singles on a line drive to left fielder Garret Anderson. Bobby Kielty scores. Mark Ellis scores. Eric Chavez to 3rd.

Top 9TH B:2 S:0 O:2
Bobby Crosby homers (3) on a fly ball to left field. Eric Chavez scores. Frank Thomas scores.

Top 9TH B:4 S:1 O:2
Jay Payton walks.

Top 9TH B:1 S:0 O:3
Mark Kotsay pops out to shortstop Orlando Cabrera.

Nothing much happened in the bottom of 9th, except Mike Scioscia whining himself into an ejection because Gaudin accidentally hit Robb Quinlan.

I just gave birth to twins!!! JayPay and Joe K. are the fathers!!!! ~~ McFood

by Poppy on May 3, 2006 8:13 AM PDT up reply actions

wow, this is great, thanks!!

here at my desk buried in papers, this made me smile :-)

by OaklandSi on May 3, 2006 9:55 AM PDT up reply actions

Jason Kendal

Jason Kendal just earned my respect today. lackey is coward hiding behind the fact that he does not have to hit. Kendal got out of the way of his pitch. The Angels are a bunch of over rated punks playing for a over bloated whining manager.

by 3Chavy3 on May 3, 2006 1:21 PM PDT reply actions