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A'S SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!

CHAVVVVVVVYYYYYY IS BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!!!!!!!!

Okay, now is the time to jump up and down and cheer, and celebrate the fact that even though the Angels so far have taken 2 out of 3 at Yankee Stadium, we still hold a 4.5 lead in the West.

Kudos to Esteban Loaiza, who pitched a HELL of a game today--hitting his spots while throwing in the mid-nineties, going eight strong innings; three hits, one run. He pitched one of the best games by an A's pitcher all year, and just flat-out bested Corcoran.

As it so often happens in this 2006 season, the A's offense took advantage of the D-rays' defensive miscues, while the A's defense (Call me, Milton!), remained rock-solid from the first out of the game, to the last, even in the tough sun.

And don't look now, but our franchise player hit his first homerun in nearly a month, and it absolutely could not have come at a better time, sending the A's from a disheartening 1-0 loss, to a win, and a series sweep.

However, some credit is due for the managing today. When your team doesn't hit well (and we don't), it is vital to pick up some bases in other ways. The A's used walks, errors, steals, and even bunt attempts, to try to manufacture some runs, and they were finally rewarded in the bottom of the eighth with the insurance run. From top to bottom, the A's offense was stifled, stymied, and shut-down for most of the afternoon, with the exception of two back-to-back hits from Thomas and Chavez in the bottom of the seventh. When you get a pitching performance like Loaiza turned in today, sometimes two well-timed hits are all it takes, which is a good sign for our offensively-challenged Oakland Athletics.

Huge win today, preserving the 4.5 lead over the Halos, and doing what we have to do to win it all--beating the teams we are supposed to beat.

Some upcoming A's dilemmas:

-What to do about Bobby Crosby when he comes off the DL?
-Do we see Dan Johnson up again soon? (maybe sooner if Swish is still hurting)
-How do we successfully play the game of 'shuffle the pitchers'?
-<whispers> Rich Harden?

Until then, enjoy this moment. The A's could not have had a better weekend, and are now playing better than any team in baseball right now. Take that, Dodgers!

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Jew-Lie, IN-sure-rinse
RIP mAC dRe and biLL KiNg

by jme on Aug 13, 2006 3:17 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Sorry.
It's how Ray Fosse says July and Insurance.
RIP mAC dRe and biLL KiNg

by jme on Aug 13, 2006 3:21 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

ask mel gibson
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 Aug 13, 2006 3:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

hah
RIP mAC dRe and biLL KiNg

by jme on Aug 13, 2006 3:25 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cotroneo called Chavez' HR
Korach said he'd like to take Vince to Vegas...

by OaklandSi on Aug 13, 2006 3:20 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

heard that
about that time i posted that chavez would have to hit frank in

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:23 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

big games for all four pitchers
corcoran got his era under 4, meadows got his era under 4, street got his era under 3, loaiza got his era under 6.

the a's offense didn't hit well or draw many walks, but on a positive note, only two Ks.

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 Aug 13, 2006 3:20 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

A's need to keep it going against M's
And M's need to take care of Texas tonight.

A's have earned a lot of respect with their play since the all-star break. 65-52 means that the A's are 42-23 since the season's low point. That's incredibly impressive without Harden and with the injuries to Bradley and Chavez during that stretch.

This is a different team than the 00-03 bunch, but one that has maybe been more amazing in what they've overcome and what they've done with what they have.

Last point: The manager deserves some credit for this.

by RLangford on Aug 13, 2006 3:25 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

NEVER THOUGHT
about it until they mentioned it on radio. eric chavez backpack day he got only home run for a's

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:25 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Nice win, bitches!
I'll try not to swear.

by Tony on Aug 13, 2006 3:26 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Time to go to camp
Camp Crosby - Entrance with bigger than life billboard with Bobby welcoming you to his camp....but you get distracted by starring too long at the board and miss the gate and end up in the ditch with a sore back.

Camp Scoot - Not a very appealing entry way but before you know it, your in the compound with quaint cozy cabins...a real value.

the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 3:26 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm in Camp A-Rod at 2nd...
...but in real-land, I'm in Camp Scutaro.
"Please cue the duck"

by baseballgirl on Aug 13, 2006 3:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

see you at the campfire tonight
for the sing-along.
the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 3:31 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

talking to eric
now on radio. buan will talk to dave henderson on extra innings later

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:27 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

as in Hendu?
the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 3:27 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

yes
was there for game

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:28 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

did the M's fire him?
he was not too popular on LLanding....preponderunce of obtuse comments on Hendu's part.
the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 3:29 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

no
thats why hes here

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:35 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

have not seen him on M's
tv for a while...the one's that i've watched.
the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

will let you know if
they mention him not on

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:38 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

listening to bruans show now on mlbaudio
the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

really on our station its
macha talking

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

hes talking
so soft and slow

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:53 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

funny
buan taking on calls from listeners

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:57 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

hendu
was there for a's fantasy camp today

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 4:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

RE: Loaiza
http://athleticsnation.com/comments/2006/8/13/02034/2014/63#63
Rickey: What's up Gwynn? Tony Gwynn: you can call me Tony. Rickey: OK, Gwynn.

by Erik being Erik on Aug 13, 2006 3:32 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

good call
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 Aug 13, 2006 3:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

haha Erik..you are the man!
"Be in first place, then come and talk to me!!!" Erik being Erik to Angels fan at Anaheim Stadium.

by Amnesiac727 on Aug 13, 2006 3:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

right on.
the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

way to go
erik i love it when you are right

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh yeah?
In the battle of who could get on the Loaiza bandwagon first, I submit this note from August 2.

http://www.athleticsnation.com/comments/2006/8/2/04240/86911/5#5

by louismg on Aug 13, 2006 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Stop being enablers
Way too many comments on AN are inspired by the desire to say, "See, I predicted that".  It's tiresome, and it goads people into saying crazy things.

I'm not saying to be mean to people, but don't indulge them by giving props when they guess one right.  It just encourages the "look at me: I predicted that" attitude.

"...but we're also always open to hearing about other sandwiches if it can make our lunch better." -- Nico, channeling Billy Beane

by iglew on Aug 13, 2006 8:49 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i don't think you can generalize like that
some predictions may be interesting and are supported by actual stats or analysis.  

and even most of those that aren't, like "loaiza will pitch well today" or "watch payton hit a home run here" seem rather harmless.  

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 Aug 13, 2006 9:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

clearly wong predidictions, should
subject the posters to proscription.
the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 9:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

A's will win the WS!!!!!!!
Everyone save this link!!!!

by mikeA on Aug 13, 2006 9:12 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

radio is talking to
loaiza now

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:40 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Run Differential Fun Fact
Last 7 games for A's:

Runs Scored:   35
Runs Allowed: 36

Record: 6-1

Let the good times roll.

by RLangford on Aug 13, 2006 3:41 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

They put up playoff information
on HH's site.

Niiiice.

Meow!

"Please cue the duck"

by baseballgirl on Aug 13, 2006 3:57 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

went to that
i got a gift of a 12 pack for the a's and so about a week ago i got letter with all that info of playoff and world series games

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

that oakey chokey thing on HH
irritates me....guess it is supposed to.
the great playoff miss of 2004 followed by the good try of 2005...in 2006?...prove it.

by ak_A on Aug 13, 2006 4:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

A's Brand Baseball --
Putting the 'A' in "What?!"
"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on Aug 13, 2006 4:06 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Haha
It's mostly skewed by the 14-0 Texas beating. But who cares, 13 games over .500 and counting!

by lenscrafters on Aug 13, 2006 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

ha ha
talking with loaiza and him and chavy got a wine trip in some auction

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:43 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

As long as
Chavvy does the driving!

by Larry E on Aug 13, 2006 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

he he
maybe sauerbeck could go with

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

feeling good, feeling good
Angels still have another game against the Yanks tomorrow - theirs is a 4-game series in the Bronx, then they move on to Texas, who is really banging the ball right now. If the A's can continue the dominance of the M's early in the week, I think we can get those playoff dance steps outa the closet and start gettin' warmed up...baby!

by groversson on Aug 13, 2006 3:43 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Woofing Alert!
"Their team is full of a bunch of shitty nobodies pieced together from the moneyball scrap yard." -- Halos Heaven 7/31/06

by SportySpice on Aug 13, 2006 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hoping...
that Texas sweeps the Mariners just so they go into that Angels series hot.

by Threepwood XX on Aug 13, 2006 5:14 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

A seriously great weekend
Sweep.  Esteban.  Chavvy.  Scutaro.  Street.  I'm loving this team.

by sprtsnwyn on Aug 13, 2006 3:49 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

asked macha if e-lo
best game and he said for velocity but good at giants game. twice ive heard speed gun is wrong both by managers

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:51 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

WOW
been a month for chavy for a homer

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 3:52 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Chavez
I've been telling you guys all along "IT WAS JUST A MATTER OF TIME!" :-)

Just kidding -- Chavy, way to go bro'! Thanks for making those of us who doubt your offense to think twice!  Great win.

VacaAsFan

by Vacafan on Aug 13, 2006 3:55 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

If Loaiza can be anywhere near what he was today..
for this stretch run, I'll be a happy man. Pitched brilliantly today, his best outing of the year with the possible exception of his comeback outing in Cleveland.

Deep thoughts:

  1. Good to see us running today. Looked like that was the game plan with Paul behind the plate. Corocan knew Payton was going and there was nothing Tampa could do. I  don't need us to be a running team, but I'm a big fan of keeping the opposition honest and knowing that we have guys - Payton, MB, Kotsay, Chavez, Kendall - who can steal a base.
  2. Huston came on and (yawn) did his job again today with an economic 10-pitch inning. Three saves in three days likely puts him on the shelf for tomorrow. An insurance run one of these last two days, in retrospect, wouldn't have hurt. For the record: I do not want him to pitch tomorrow.
  3. Speaking of Street, I'm not a fan of getting cute with the pen, but with two lefties due up for Tampa in the 9th, I wonder if Macha was at all tempted to save Street and opt for a southpaw followed by Calero. Probably not, but I wonder if Halsey would have put the closer-by-committee-for-a-day thought in mind.
  4. What bearing did me walking to a neighborhood store prior to first pitch to buy a bottle of glue to repair my Chavez bobblehead - which was broken at his forearm! - have on his performance today? Why did it take me so long to do this? Will he ever make an out again? These are questions to which only the almighty Baseball Gods have answers.
  5. Where's Mark? Since he's sat for two straight series, would it make any sense to bring him back against the lefty Washburn tomorrow? I'd say might as well sit him again, and seeing Kielty has made me long for Hiram Boccachica, let alone Dan Johnson.
  6. Speaking of DJ, we don't know if Swisher can play 1B, left alone LF. For the MLB Gameday audience, what the heck happened? Strained hamstring stretching for a throw? Day to day? How premature is it to think about Melhuse at 1B tomorrow?
Good week, good series and good day, AN. Go A's!
http://www.myspace.com/ryanmac10

by RyanFromBonas on Aug 13, 2006 3:58 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Is Swish really day to day?
It did look like he was laboring at first after that awesome stretch, though.........Man, I did not realize how flexible Swish really is!

Hope he is alright. Chavvy rocks out with his c%*k out!

by mrod on Aug 13, 2006 4:04 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

When a man does splits like that,
he should get the damn call.

He definitely looked in some pain afterwards. :-(

...Can I offer to ice him?

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

by Kyli on Aug 13, 2006 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

and
apply it

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 4:52 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Finally!!!!
From Baseball Tonight:

<after complementing another 3rd baseman> "Chavez is going to win the Gold Glove, of course, Chavez deserves it, but he's pretty good."

"Please cue the duck"

by baseballgirl on Aug 13, 2006 4:08 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

That play Lowell made, was not anything that
outstanding, Chavvy makes that 2 or 3 times a game.  

by theblackpearl on Aug 13, 2006 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nobody does it better than Chavvy
except maybe 007..........wink!

by mrod on Aug 13, 2006 4:12 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Hey...did anyone know...
...that there's a big match-up on Sunday Night Baseball tonight?

It's barely been talked about! They certainly didn't mention it 17,000 times on Baseball Tonight and SportsCenter, and of course, they didn't interview Joe Morgan about it.

For the love! The nation has to hear that man for 3+ hours tonight; don't extend it!

P.S. They said 'butt' on BBTN.

"Please cue the duck"

by baseballgirl on Aug 13, 2006 4:27 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

And have I gone crazy?!
Baseball Tonight just cited the Cardinal's defense as being worse than last year's because they "are on pace to turn 30 fewer double plays". Ummm...?!

Ummmmm....!??!??!

"Please cue the duck"

by baseballgirl on Aug 13, 2006 4:29 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Was at the game, and...
  • Loaiza looked terrific, and his fastball looked 93 MPH at times. Best I've ever seen him throw in an A's uni. Heck, 59 pitches in the first 6 innings tells the story--that's "Greg Maddux in his prime" territory.
  • Now IS the time to be cautious with injuries; hamstring pulls, like the one Swish suffered, have a way of getting reinjured (and coming back to 95% only to be reinjured again) if you try to play through instead of sitting out until you are 100%. I was actually ticked that nobody came out to check on Swisher and felt he should have been taken out of the game. Mark my words, "day-to-day" will turn into a DL stint if they try to bring him back a minute too soon.
  • Chavy is the man, end of story.
I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on Aug 13, 2006 4:45 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Me Too and
Yes he did. It seems to me that Loaiza looks better with every game.  I was also a little peeved that no one came out to check on Swish.  I was right near first base and it was evident from the get go that he was hurtin'  Kept trying to stretch out that hamstring.  I think even the Ray's first base guy was concerned.  Eric's homer was such a blast!  Just a huge towering thing of beauty!  What a day!  Glad I was there.
Stomper is a badass!

by lynnzgal on Aug 13, 2006 6:34 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sorry for the inaccuracy:
"Greg Maddux in his prime" should read "Greg Maddux tonight"--through 7 innings, Maddux has thrown 60 pitches.   !!!
I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on Aug 13, 2006 6:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Which Barry will show up tmrw?
Horrible Home Zito or Decent Home ZitO?
"We are deep-sea diving in the Monongahela River after heavy rains in the western Pennsylvania area." - A's Fearless Leader

by OaktownRajah on Aug 13, 2006 4:47 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Washburn goes tomorrow
which probably  means Kielty in left again, if Swish can't play Kotsay would go to first.  If Swish goes on the DL then DJ comes back.  I expect Swish to play however.

by china bob on Aug 13, 2006 4:58 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

kotsay
is back?

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 4:59 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fun, Fun Game
Some things that might not have been picked up on Gameday, TV or radio.

First, a little boy threw out a ceremonial pitch, then held up his glove because he wanted Swish to throw it back to him. So cute.

Then, the second oldest living Athletic (whose name I don't recall) threw out a pitch from his wheelchair. He basically handed the ball to Swish, but he is 96 years old.
Very touching.

At one point, I actually thought Loaiza would challenge Rich's record for the fewest pitches thrown in a complete game.

Loaiza got a loud standing ovation from the crowd after the 8th. After the game, when he finished his interview with the TV guys, he signed a bunch of autographs. A happy, confident E-Lo is very very good for the A's.

And finally -- cute kids running the bases after the game as Beach Boys music plays in the stadium.

The Best!!!

"Their team is full of a bunch of shitty nobodies pieced together from the moneyball scrap yard." -- Halos Heaven 7/31/06

by SportySpice on Aug 13, 2006 5:01 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

radio
told us about guy who handed out the pitch but said he was 97. said he played for oakland oaks

by smasfan on Aug 13, 2006 5:03 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

A's site says Philly A
http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20060813&content_id=1607883& ;vkey=news_oak&fext=.jsp&c_id=oak

"First pitch: Emil Maiho, a former member of the Philadelphia Athletics, threw out the ceremonial first pitch before Sunday's game against the Devil Rays. Maiho played 21 games for the A's in 1936.

"At 96 years old, he is the second-oldest member of the Philadelphia A's alive today. He resides in Castro Valley, Calif."

by OaklandSi on Aug 13, 2006 5:05 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks for the info
Were you there today?
"Their team is full of a bunch of shitty nobodies pieced together from the moneyball scrap yard." -- Halos Heaven 7/31/06

by SportySpice on Aug 13, 2006 5:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

no, I was out of town
all weekend (did catch Friday and Saturday's games on TV).

My season ticket package has all three Mariners games, so I'll be living in 226 M-W

by OaklandSi on Aug 13, 2006 6:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wonder if he can still play short...
his average has still got to be better than Crosby's.
"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Aug 13, 2006 6:13 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

BBG has it right...
"However, some credit is due for the managing today. When your team doesn't hit well (and we don't), it is vital to pick up some bases in other ways. The A's used walks, errors, steals, and even bunt attempts, to try to manufacture some runs, and they were finally rewarded in the bottom of the eighth with the insurance run."

This is an important part of the game, should never be ignored and I predict will be used more and more as we near the playoffs.

by doubleplayer on Aug 13, 2006 5:13 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

No Wave Today?
A Giants fans I took the game yesterday said, "That's all A's."

I don't think Giants fans are paying enough attention to start doing a wave.

This year's Peja-Artest, Willis for Zito! aim: encryptthisthat

by Hit4TheCycle on Aug 13, 2006 5:17 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

They tried in the top of the ninth.
It was frightening and horrible. It died about halfway 'round the Coliseum, thankfully.
"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."

by Kyli on Aug 13, 2006 8:58 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

i hate the wave.
"I thought it was cute," Oakland's Nick Swisher said of Kotsay's blast with the petal-colored bat

by larrysgurl on Aug 13, 2006 10:50 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes...
People near us started it.  Even my kids (who, in general kind of like the wave since they're just kids) kept yelling "You don't do the wave when your pitcher is pitching!" Smart kids!

What was worse...people around us were cheering LOUDLY as the wave reached further and further into the stadim.  They were cheering in-between Huston's pitches!  It was embarassing!

by indigo on Aug 13, 2006 11:04 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Kinda off the subject
but did anyone else read this article by
Fat The Rat?
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/chronicle/archive/2006/08/13/SPGHMKHLVQ1.DTL

normally I could care less about his horsshit writng but this article really got under my skin......he just has this tone that is like, "I'm so superior than all of the common readers" and it pissese off! Plus, he talks in circles and just generally makes no real point.

alright, that's my two cents......Go A'S!

by mrod on Aug 13, 2006 5:35 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Tarps are bad?
The A's are good, but not? They have no money, but don't? But could? But no one sees them? But they are good, but won't be? Tarps are bad?

Wow.

"Please cue the duck"

by baseballgirl on Aug 13, 2006 6:17 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

He gives
the obese a bad name.

by mikeA on Aug 13, 2006 6:31 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly.
No sense at all..............A's kick ass!

by mrod on Aug 13, 2006 6:32 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, tarps are bad.
Yes, the A's were good, but not good enough (at the time the column was written) to appreciably increase attendance.  They have plenty of money, and so winning on a shoestring budget was also not a neat-enough trick to attract more fans.  And they might or might not be good in October (as it turned out, they were a little of both), but past September/October failures may have also been working against the A's drawing fans during the summer.  And yes, again, tarps ARE bad.  Not innately bad, but certainly bad the A's were using them last summer.

I think you've displayed way too much intelligence on this site to really be as confused as you pretend to be here by Ratto's column.  

"WTF is wrong with you people TASTELESS COMMENTS. I'm disgusted. Mocking a 10 year old's horrible painful death." --eshock

by rubin sierra on Dec 7, 2006 1:13 PM PST up reply actions   0 recs

I emailed Ratto...
saying it was the worst article I'd ever read!

by The Elephant on Aug 13, 2006 6:49 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

What the hell are you talking about?
He wrote an article about the tarp issue being a miscalculation and failure by the A's. Where's the confusion or the condescending tone?

He pretty clearly states that the A's said they believed adding the tarps would increase demand, but it hasn't because tarps or no tarps, the fans want to see a winner. And the fact that this season is by and large deja vu to the casual fan (slow start, hot 2nd half, good byt not great team), is keeping away the bandwagoners. I can clealry see an opinion, and some thoughts supporting it. Don't get mad at him just because you don't understand the circles he's writing around you.  That's not his fault, it's yours. Someone cracked on Urban's appearance and everyone freaked out, but apparently there's a free pass on Ratto. It's bullshit.

I'll try not to swear.

by Tony on Aug 13, 2006 6:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

No doubt that your right.
But I hate both the sorry ass hacks. I do wonder if Ratto knows a little more than most with the San Jose stuff.....but I imagine it's more likely he is just trying to intimate that he does in order for us to pay attention to his hack ass in the future.  I never thought I would say it, but I think of the two, Urban is the bigger (at least figuratively) sorry ass hack.  He really knows what he's talking about.....or not, according to the A's themselves.
"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Aug 13, 2006 7:24 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ratto missed the point...
...his whole comment was that the A's closing the third deck was supposed to increase attendance.  In truth the A's closed the third deck to increase advanced ticket sales, so when the big ticket teams came to town (Yankees, BoSox, Giants, Angels) the ticket counters wouldn't be backed up.  It was not a move to increase attendance, but a move to regulate costs at both the ticket counter and the concessions.

Regardless of whether or not the A's made that move, their attendance would probably still be the same.  Yes, they've had an awesome August, but the casual fan has seen this all before.  What will increase attendance for next year is getting to the ALCS in October.

As his line of "the A's surrender to the fact that they won't draw 50,000 a game..."  I looked it up and currently only 5 stadiums HAVE a capacity configured to allow more than 50,000 a game.  If he had said 40,000 a game he might have had a better point.  But the bottom line is lowering the stadium capacity increased demand for buying tickets early, which will increase their TV contract because (when new stadium if/is built) will shut out more people at the gate to allow more $$ to come via the TV contract... because more people will be watching TV, which is where more of the money is made (see Yankees, New York).

Yes, there is revenue sharing, but it all works out in the end.  You get more revenue by way of TV and radio, then you do contribute to the sharing.  But chances are even with the increased rev the A's will still be in the lower half, therefore getting more rev from the sharing.

by gmoneymcg on Aug 14, 2006 1:21 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Correction
"Horseshit!".

by mrod on Aug 13, 2006 5:35 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

OT: Sea-Tex update
Second inn- Sea takes lead 2-0, Broussard HR and Ichiro RBI single.
"We are deep-sea diving in the Monongahela River after heavy rains in the western Pennsylvania area." - A's Fearless Leader

by OaktownRajah on Aug 13, 2006 5:37 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Tex leads 3-2 after two out bases loaded 2B.
My god, the Rangers avg with RISP is amazing!
"We are deep-sea diving in the Monongahela River after heavy rains in the western Pennsylvania area." - A's Fearless Leader

by OaktownRajah on Aug 13, 2006 5:54 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

The game was on fast-forward
I had to work until 2:30 today, but I figured I would be home in time to catch the last half of the game. I don't live far from work at all, but by the time I got home, it was the bottom of the 8th inning.

Great win. I was going to be so upset if Loaiza pitched a great game and we still lost. You can't take good Loaiza outings for granted and I'm pleased that they didn't.

Kettlecorn! Swishercorn!

by TurnTwo on Aug 13, 2006 6:00 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Same here, Turntwo
I get in the car to go, and the wrap up is already starting.  Oh well.  I figure that as long as they win, then maybe I would have been the jinx if I listened.
   As for what I read on this thread, screw Ray Ratto.  The A's just need to keep winning through October, and they will draw crowds.
Go Maddux and Dodgers, and bury the Giants deeper!

by wolffpackdavid on Aug 13, 2006 6:48 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Can someone clear something up for me
I was not feeling well this morning and I actually fell asleep during the game. (I know I am really sick when I do that!) I woke up during the bottom of the 8th inning due to the shock associated with hearing "Ellis lays down a sweet bunt!" Then during Swisher's AB they mentioned his hamstring, but they didn't elaborate. Can someone please tell me what happened to him? What inning was it is? Thanks!
"This is the best hug in the major leagues, right here!" - Swisher Pics

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Aug 13, 2006 6:57 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I THINK it was the top of the 8th
And Scutaro got to a ball, threw it to Swisher, who tried valiently to get the call by doing the splits on first. He grimaced in pain going down, and didn't seem to be able to shake it off for the rest of the game.
"Please cue the duck"

by baseballgirl on Aug 13, 2006 7:00 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh! Poor thing!!
As sexy as those splits are, I certainly hope he didn't hurt himself. He remained in the game, so that is encouraging. I hope he feels better soon! Thanks BBG!
"This is the best hug in the major leagues, right here!" - Swisher Pics

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Aug 13, 2006 7:11 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

speaking of falling asleep...
I have the hardest time staying awake on Sunday afternoons... you'd think I was a senior citizen or something... so the last few Sunday afternoon games I just end up falling asleep on the couch in front of the TV for the middle few innings and waking up to see the end. Today I was in and out till the 7th, which was when I started paying attention again... scoring has a way of doing that. ;)

Anyway, hope you're feeling better... :)

by whiteshoes40 on Aug 13, 2006 7:48 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Texas up 6-3
in the bottom of the 6th.  Is it just me or do the Rangers seem more of a threat than the Angels?  I know their pitching isn't near that of the Angels or A's, but damn their offense...

by The Elephant on Aug 13, 2006 7:00 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Texas pitching looks better when
they face the Mariners.  It's not just that the M's don't hit well -- (over all, they hit better than we do) -- it's their style of hitting.

Texas has mediocre starters and lousy middle relief, which means they're especially vulnerable to patient hitting.  Seattle hitters this year are the least patient in the league.

"...but we're also always open to hearing about other sandwiches if it can make our lunch better." -- Nico, channeling Billy Beane

by iglew on Aug 13, 2006 9:01 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Strike that....
7-3 and counting...

by The Elephant on Aug 13, 2006 7:00 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Awww, Chavvy Hearts Us!
[From the A's Team Website]
"When you're healthy, you can do things you want to do at the plate -- like taking pitches and not swinging at bad ones," Chavez said. "For basically two months, I had no chance. THE FANS STAYED WITH ME, AND I APPRECIATE THAT."
"Their team is full of a bunch of shitty nobodies pieced together from the moneyball scrap yard." -- Halos Heaven 7/31/06

by SportySpice on Aug 13, 2006 7:38 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

dodgers just walked off..
the homerun with the obligatory helmut toss just prior to touching home plate.
I love the A's, like the Giants...hate the dodgers
Rickey: What's up Gwynn? Tony Gwynn: you can call me Tony. Rickey: OK, Gwynn.

by Erik being Erik on Aug 13, 2006 7:40 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

YESSS!!!--Dodgers sweep Giants!!
Walk off homer, 1-0.  Along with our sweep this weekend, what a great baseball weekend!

by wolffpackdavid on Aug 13, 2006 7:40 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

True...
the only downside to today is that it wasn't possible for both the Angels and the Yankee's to loose.  Of course, I would have preferred the Yankee's to win....as hard as that it to say.
"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Aug 13, 2006 7:51 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good point Alox, but
considering I hate the Yankees (except that they beat the Giants in the '62 WS), I will still call it a great baseball weekend.  If the Angels are going to win, I can at least take comfort knowing that it was against the Yanks.

by wolffpackdavid on Aug 13, 2006 7:59 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Someone help me
With the beatdown the Rangers are putting on the Mariners this weekend, what damage was done to Seattle's bullpen?  I would think they would be a little tired after getting worked so badly.  I'm too lazy to look.  

by sprtsnwyn on Aug 13, 2006 8:05 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm also too lazy to look,
but not too lazy to reply. Helpful, huh?
I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on Aug 13, 2006 8:12 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

We'll just assume
their bullpen is dead

by sprtsnwyn on Aug 13, 2006 8:15 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

As in A's dead....
or just day to day???
"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Aug 13, 2006 8:18 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Isn't A's dead
day-to-day?  Or is A's day-to-day dead?

by sprtsnwyn on Aug 13, 2006 8:22 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, it's true
that there is an A in day, and another a in day to day...but also an A in dead.  
"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer

by alox on Aug 13, 2006 9:41 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

here you go
8/10
J. Mateo 4 batters faced (none retired) 15 pitches 3/2/1/0 (H/R/BB/K)
S Green 8 batters faced 1.2IP 28 pitches 3/0/0/0 (H/R/BB/K)

8/11
J. Woods 21 batters faced 3.2IP 76 pitches 9/4/2/2 (H/R/BB/K)
S. Green 12 batters faced 3.1IP 38 pitches 3/1/0/0 (H/R/BB/K)

8/12
J. Mateo 6 batters faced 1IP 19 pitches 2/0/0/0 (H/R/BB/K)
M. Lowe 4 batters faced 1IP 12 pitches 0/0/1/1 (H/R/BB/K)

8/13
S. Green 9 batters faced 1.2IP 38 pitches 4/3/0/1 (H/R/BB/K)
G. Sherrill 4 batters faced .2 IP 14 pitches 1/0/1/0 (H/R/BB/K)

70 batters faced 13IP 240 pitches 25/10/5/4 (H/R/BB/K)

Oh shit, those aren't A's stats!  Damn!  What am I thinking?

"YA-freaking-WHOOOOO!" ~ alaska A

by eamb on Aug 13, 2006 8:46 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

What a game
Loaiza pitched against a decent team and was hitting the corners all day, I guess he felt motivated to prove he's worth the money. I hope this team keeps rolling because the road trip is no cookie.
"Talk about impressive. My point is this: Break's over."- Josiah Bartlet

by doublehustle22 on Aug 13, 2006 9:28 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Somewhat Off Topic...Street!
What is Street's theme song? Thanx

by pogieboy on Aug 13, 2006 9:31 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

NAS - "You can hate me now"
"I could get two mannequins at Sears and umpire better than what I saw this whole series" ~~ Asheville Tourists manager Joe Mikulik

by smith1051 on Aug 13, 2006 10:20 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Kruk on BBTN:
"Jermaine Dye is never going to not hustle."

Umm ... cf. ALDS 2003, Game 5 - loping to 1st on popup, collision betw Damon and what's-his-name, out at 2nd on Garciaparra's throw.

Good insight, Kruk.

I miss Bill King.

by Checkswing HR on Aug 13, 2006 10:37 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

tonite's ESPN synopsis if u missed it
Good evening and welcome to Sportscenter.

RedSoxRedSoxYankeesYankeesYankeesBarryBondsYankeesYankeesYankeesRedSoxYankeesRedSoxRedSoxYankeesYank eesBarryBonds.

RedSoxYankeesYankees, BarryBondsYankeesRedSoxYankeeesYankeesYankees, RedSoxRedSoxRedSoxRedSoxBarryBondsRedSoxYankees.

That's it for Sportscenter!

1972...1973...1974...1989...2006

by emperor nobody on Aug 13, 2006 11:47 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

Corcoran after Chavvy's AB in the 7th
"YA-freaking-WHOOOOO!" ~ alaska A

by eamb on Aug 13, 2006 10:57 PM PDT reply actions   0 recs

It's bad to go to kids' giveaways when you
hate kids.

It took a couple beers to resist the urge to steal the backpack from the chair-kicker behind me. I mean, annoyance tax, c'mon!

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

by Kyli on Aug 14, 2006 11:15 AM PDT reply actions   0 recs

Annoyance Tax!!
I am so on that same page!! It sounds like an absolute PLAN to me!
"This is the best hug in the major leagues, right here!" - Swisher Pics

by BobbyCrosbysGirl on Aug 14, 2006 12:07 PM PDT up reply actions   0 recs

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