Dallas Cowboys: Where is Fun Bobby?
Do you remember the episode of Friends in which the show introduced “Fun Bobby?” Bobby made people laugh, he created a uniquely energetic atmosphere and, quite simply, things were more exciting when Bobby was around. The problem: Bobby’s “fun” personality was a result of a drinking problem.
The seven generic white “friends” decided that they needed to do something. The group banded together and eventually helped Bobby quit drinking. The problem: Bobby was no longer “fun.” Without alcohol, Bobby was just another guy with very little to offer (and please ignore the indirect “why you should drink” message).
Cowboys’ fans – say hello to “No Fun Tony.”
That’s right; you got what you asked for. Since taking over as the starter, Romo has been one of the most explosive playmakers in the NFL. But instead of recognizing Romo’s unique ability to make plays that no other quarterback could make, the fans just wanted to talk about turnovers.
Every time the Cowboys lost, Dallas sports-talk was littered with “Jeds from Garland” telling the world that, “This team just cain’t win with a guy like Romo who dun goes and throws them interceptions!”
Well Jed, you got what you wanted. Romo is no longer fun to watch. He no longer consistently makes amazing plays. The constant and seemingly never-ending chirping about turnovers finally got to Tony (or Garrett) – and a below-average offense is the result.
How did San Diego score their first touchdown? Philip Rivers took a shot down the field – Dallas interfered on the play – and San Diego was given the ball at the 2-yard-line. Sounds pretty simple.
Romo no longer takes shots down the field. He doesn’t look for the big play (at least not in big games). If Romo avoids trouble in the pocket, he isn’t looking downfield; he is looking for his check-down receiver. In other words, you have turned one of the NFL’s most unique weapons into Kyle Orton.
Congratulations.
The fans that united to collectively whine and complain about Romo’s “carelessness” with the ball now have the opportunity to watch this Dallas team scratch and crawl to score 17 points. When Romo was clicking on all cylinders, 17 points was a decent total for one quarter. Romo hasn’t turned the ball over in December and Dallas is 0-2. He currently has the lowest turnover ratio of his career – and yet the offense has become less productive. But hey, that’s what everyone wanted, right?
Romo is a natural-born playmaker. Did his creativity and willingness to take chances occasionally lead to mistakes? Of course it did. But when Romo was playing free and loose, his positive impact on the offense far outweighed his occasional mishap.
Do you remember the youthful exuberance that used to surround Tony? Can you recall how electric Texas Stadium became when Romo stepped onto the field? Now, none of that happens. The fans aren’t excited, the players look disinterested and Romo himself doesn’t look confident. Two years ago, if you had told me that Romo would not exude confidence when he stepped on the field, I would have called you Sarah Palin crazy!
Early on in his career, Romo’s ability to make big plays defined him as a quarterback – and I can’t help but think that this coaching staff (with help from constant criticism by the fans/media) has simply taken that risk-taking mentality away from him. Though Romo has connected on 14 big plays (40+ yards) this season, only three of them have come during meaningful times in meaningful games (2 against Philadelphia; 1 against Green Bay). A more detailed breakdown follows:
• Week 2: Loss to the Giants 33-31 (0 big plays)
• Week 4: Loss at the Broncos 17-10 (1 big play less than 2:00 remaining)
• Week 10: Loss at the Packers 17-7 (1 big play)
• Week 13: Loss at the Giants 31-24 (0 big plays)
• Week 14: Loss to the Chargers 20-17 (0 big plays)
This team doesn’t make big plays against quality teams. Against Oakland and Seattle, Dallas receivers will break a tackle and create a big play. But in close games against decent teams, Dallas simply doesn’t take many (if any) shots down the field.
And no, T.O. isn’t the difference. T.O. played in Dallas last year and, outside of the San Francisco game, the team didn’t connect on many explosive plays. This isn’t a personnel issue – this is a mentality issue. Romo no longer appears to have the playmaker mentality. He doesn’t strike fear into opposing defense and he isn’t walking with the same swagger that he used to own. He simply looks like just another guy.
I don’t know about you, but I want “Fun Bobby” back!
Monday, December 14, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
Things You Should Never Do!
After attending at least 30 Ranger games this year, Blair and I were discussing yesterday that we should make a list of things you should never do at a Ranger game.
- Never do the wave..........no matter how hot, how boring, or how ignorant you are
- Never wear a glove if you're over 9 years old
- If you fail and wear a glove, please never cower behind the glove while your girlfriend takes a foul ball off the side of the face
- Never "deke" the guy behind you by pretending that you're going to catch the hotshot headed your way.........only to move at the last second
- Never bring Eddie in a game that matters
- Never say "how could anyone be worse than Chris Davis" ie see Hank Blalock
- Never expect Wash to play the game by the "book"
- Never wear a tank top if you weigh in over 300lbs
- Never expect Wash to have an actual plan or role for his bullpen
- Never think you're gonna see Blalock walk
- Never look for Kinsler to hit to the opposite field..........unless of course he's just late
- Never think that MY is not the best player on the field.........period! (Unless we play the Cardinals)
- Never regret bringing Elvis up to plas SS and moving MY over
- Never order cotton candy if you're over 9 (see glove admonition above)
- Never lose a home series to Minnesota, San Diego, or Oakland (oops 0-3 there)
Monday, July 20, 2009
What would Jones have to do?
After watching another pathetic offensive performance by the Rangers, I thought to myself: "What would Andruw Jones have to do to be moved out of the cleanup spot?"
Since April, Jones is hitting .204:
In May, he hit .245...
In June, he hit .170...
In July, he is hitting .195...
During that time, he has produced a .285 OBP. Chris Davis' .202 average and .256 OBP not only resulted in him getting moved down in the order, it led to his demotion to AAA. For Andruw Jones, similar numbers have resulted in solidifying his role ast the starting DH and cleanup hitter!
Seriously, what would Jones have to do to lose playing time or to be dropped in the order? Hit .100? .075?
Similarly, Kinsler has been really bad since April (despite his 2-HR game last night). This year against RH pitchers, Kinsler has produced the very gross line of .216/.298/.400 (.698 OPS). Since right-handed pitchers start about two-thirds of all Major League games, Washington continues to handcuff the team by inserting a leadoff hitter who simply can't hit righties.
Could Kinsler turn it around? Sure. But for almost three months, he has been really bad against righties. When a right-handed pitcher is on the mound, Murphy needs to move into the leadoff spot. He has been very good against righties all season (plus, this sets up a L-R-L lineup combo).
Obviously, Jones and Kinsler are not the only problems within this offense, but when the lineup consistently underachieves, why keep doing the same thing?
Against a right-handed starter:
1. Murphy (consistently producing against righties...including .380 OBP since April)
2. Young (ideal #2 hitter)
3. Hamilton
4. Cruz (.948 OPS vs RH pitchers)
5. Blalock (.908 OPS vs RH pitchers)
6. Kinsler (horrible against RH pitchers: .698 OPS)
7. Byrd/Jones
8. Salty
9. Andrus
Against a left-handed starter:
1. Andrus (.398 OBP vs. LH pitchers)
2. Young
3. Hamilton
4. Kinsler (1.114 OPS vs. LH pitchers can't be wasted on the leadoff spot)
5. Cruz
6. Byrd
7. Salty
8. Blalock/Murphy (both are hitting below .200 vs. LH pitchers)
9. Jones
Makes a lot of sense, but I'm sure that Jones will continue to hit cleanup because, "Hey, he is Andruw Jones and he was good four years ago."
Since April, Jones is hitting .204:
In May, he hit .245...
In June, he hit .170...
In July, he is hitting .195...
During that time, he has produced a .285 OBP. Chris Davis' .202 average and .256 OBP not only resulted in him getting moved down in the order, it led to his demotion to AAA. For Andruw Jones, similar numbers have resulted in solidifying his role ast the starting DH and cleanup hitter!
Seriously, what would Jones have to do to lose playing time or to be dropped in the order? Hit .100? .075?
Similarly, Kinsler has been really bad since April (despite his 2-HR game last night). This year against RH pitchers, Kinsler has produced the very gross line of .216/.298/.400 (.698 OPS). Since right-handed pitchers start about two-thirds of all Major League games, Washington continues to handcuff the team by inserting a leadoff hitter who simply can't hit righties.
Could Kinsler turn it around? Sure. But for almost three months, he has been really bad against righties. When a right-handed pitcher is on the mound, Murphy needs to move into the leadoff spot. He has been very good against righties all season (plus, this sets up a L-R-L lineup combo).
Obviously, Jones and Kinsler are not the only problems within this offense, but when the lineup consistently underachieves, why keep doing the same thing?
Against a right-handed starter:
1. Murphy (consistently producing against righties...including .380 OBP since April)
2. Young (ideal #2 hitter)
3. Hamilton
4. Cruz (.948 OPS vs RH pitchers)
5. Blalock (.908 OPS vs RH pitchers)
6. Kinsler (horrible against RH pitchers: .698 OPS)
7. Byrd/Jones
8. Salty
9. Andrus
Against a left-handed starter:
1. Andrus (.398 OBP vs. LH pitchers)
2. Young
3. Hamilton
4. Kinsler (1.114 OPS vs. LH pitchers can't be wasted on the leadoff spot)
5. Cruz
6. Byrd
7. Salty
8. Blalock/Murphy (both are hitting below .200 vs. LH pitchers)
9. Jones
Makes a lot of sense, but I'm sure that Jones will continue to hit cleanup because, "Hey, he is Andruw Jones and he was good four years ago."
Friday, July 10, 2009
Smoke and Mirrors
Over the last month, the Texas offense has been really bad. Too many strikeouts, not enough walks and a collective group simply not getting the job done. Luckily for the Rangers, their pitching staff has bailed them out.
That may change moving forward.
Kevin Millwood and Scott Feldman have been unusually lucky throughout the first half of 2009. BABIP has been established as an extremely useful statistic. The acronym stands for: Batting-Average-on-Balls-In-Play. In other words, it tracks how often a pitcher gives up a hit when the hitter puts a pitch in play.
Typically, the league average hovers around the .300 mark meaning that, on average, 30% of balls put in play result in a base hit. Let’s take a look at the two Texas starters in question:
Millwood
Since coming to Texas, Millwood has allowed a BABIP of around .335. Last year, when he posted an ERA of 5.07 – his BABIP was .357. This year, while posting an ERA of 3.34 – his BABIP is .267 (90 points lower than 2008), which is below league-average and well below his recent career trend. You might just think that he is making better pitches this year, but upon further review:
Millwood is striking out less this year than he did in 2008...
Millwood is walking more than he did in 2008...
When walk rates go up and k-rates go down, ERA almost always inflates. Instead, Millwood has seen his ERA drop almost two full points.
Feldman
Last year, when Scott Feldman posted a 5.29 ERA, he allowed a BABIP of .285. This year, while posting an ERA of 3.91 – his BABIP is .236 (almost 50 points lower than last year). Is he making better pitches? Possibly, but again:
Felman's walk rates haven’t changed much this year...
Feldman's strikeout rate is almost identical to last year’s...
The difference: he is allowing two less hits for every 9 innings that he pitches.
The Rangers have improved their team defense and that can play a significant role within hits-allowed numbers; however, the defense by itself cannot explain both pitchers’ sudden improvement. If the defensive changes were solely responsible, you would expect the entire staff to see massive improvement within their BABIP numbers. That hasn’t happened. Matt Harrison has seen a dramatic increase in his BABIP this year. Padilla has seen his BABIP remain fairly constant. Brandon McCarthy has a much higher BABIP than it was in 2008.
I hope that I am wrong and am pulling for Millwood and Feldman to continue pitching well, but the numbers generally don’t lie. They aren’t striking more batters out – they aren’t walking fewer batters – they are simply allowing fewer hits. That doesn’t typically happen very often, but we can hope, right?
That may change moving forward.
Kevin Millwood and Scott Feldman have been unusually lucky throughout the first half of 2009. BABIP has been established as an extremely useful statistic. The acronym stands for: Batting-Average-on-Balls-In-Play. In other words, it tracks how often a pitcher gives up a hit when the hitter puts a pitch in play.
Typically, the league average hovers around the .300 mark meaning that, on average, 30% of balls put in play result in a base hit. Let’s take a look at the two Texas starters in question:
Millwood
Since coming to Texas, Millwood has allowed a BABIP of around .335. Last year, when he posted an ERA of 5.07 – his BABIP was .357. This year, while posting an ERA of 3.34 – his BABIP is .267 (90 points lower than 2008), which is below league-average and well below his recent career trend. You might just think that he is making better pitches this year, but upon further review:
Millwood is striking out less this year than he did in 2008...
Millwood is walking more than he did in 2008...
When walk rates go up and k-rates go down, ERA almost always inflates. Instead, Millwood has seen his ERA drop almost two full points.
Feldman
Last year, when Scott Feldman posted a 5.29 ERA, he allowed a BABIP of .285. This year, while posting an ERA of 3.91 – his BABIP is .236 (almost 50 points lower than last year). Is he making better pitches? Possibly, but again:
Felman's walk rates haven’t changed much this year...
Feldman's strikeout rate is almost identical to last year’s...
The difference: he is allowing two less hits for every 9 innings that he pitches.
The Rangers have improved their team defense and that can play a significant role within hits-allowed numbers; however, the defense by itself cannot explain both pitchers’ sudden improvement. If the defensive changes were solely responsible, you would expect the entire staff to see massive improvement within their BABIP numbers. That hasn’t happened. Matt Harrison has seen a dramatic increase in his BABIP this year. Padilla has seen his BABIP remain fairly constant. Brandon McCarthy has a much higher BABIP than it was in 2008.
I hope that I am wrong and am pulling for Millwood and Feldman to continue pitching well, but the numbers generally don’t lie. They aren’t striking more batters out – they aren’t walking fewer batters – they are simply allowing fewer hits. That doesn’t typically happen very often, but we can hope, right?
Thursday, July 9, 2009
How could you miss the signs?
My computer has been returned, apparently the victim of an alien abduction. How else do you explain the gibberish coming out of it last week? Granted the Rangers had just finished the worst hitting month in over 15 years, had just dropped 2 of 3 to the lowly Padres at home, and had lost the first game of a 3 game set with the Angels dropping them out of first for the first time in 2 months, but only some unintelligent life from another world would jump to the conclusion that the Rangers were done. Yes there were 2 games left with the Angels and the Rays were coming to town followed by 7 on the road with the Angels and Mariners, but who in their right mind would predict that the Rangers would finish 4-8 in those remaining games. I for one knew that couldn’t be the case as evidenced by the Rangers winning the 2 remaining games with the Angels, sweeping the Rays, and then winning the series in Anaheim.
I mean, come on, it was there for all to see. Hank Blalock was primed to hit game winning home runs, Tommy Hunter was obviously a solid starter on the rise, and I think it was clear that Andruw Jones was about to return to 2005 form. And of course I had no doubt that once the Rangers got to Anaheim they would take care of business and spank the Angels in the first 2 games of that series, but apparently alien civilizations don’t have access to the information or insight that I do.
Since that loss to Anaheim a week ago, the Rangers have won 7 of 9 (including 4 of 5 against LAA) , returned to 1st place, sent Chris Davis to AAA, and the duo of Blalock and Jones has carried the Rangers offensively. I’m not surprised, the evidence was there. Only someone that has not watched these Rangers all year would be expecting a fall. I apologize for the mess coming from this computer last week; it was evidently at the hands of someone who doesn’t understand this Ranger team. Hey move over!! Man this bandwagon is getting crowded.
I mean, come on, it was there for all to see. Hank Blalock was primed to hit game winning home runs, Tommy Hunter was obviously a solid starter on the rise, and I think it was clear that Andruw Jones was about to return to 2005 form. And of course I had no doubt that once the Rangers got to Anaheim they would take care of business and spank the Angels in the first 2 games of that series, but apparently alien civilizations don’t have access to the information or insight that I do.
Since that loss to Anaheim a week ago, the Rangers have won 7 of 9 (including 4 of 5 against LAA) , returned to 1st place, sent Chris Davis to AAA, and the duo of Blalock and Jones has carried the Rangers offensively. I’m not surprised, the evidence was there. Only someone that has not watched these Rangers all year would be expecting a fall. I apologize for the mess coming from this computer last week; it was evidently at the hands of someone who doesn’t understand this Ranger team. Hey move over!! Man this bandwagon is getting crowded.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Why Are We Voting for Ian Kinsler?
Last week, Major League Baseball announced the All Star selections for this year’s mid-season classic. Despite leading the fan vote throughout the entire first-half of the season, Ian Kinsler was edged out by Boston 2nd baseman, Dustin Pedroia. Kinsler has been named as one of five players added to the “Final Vote” group. The “Final Vote” selection provides fans with the ability to vote-in one additional player in each league that did not originally earn a roster spot.
If you are a Ranger fan or have watched any recent Ranger games, you have undoubtedly seen numerous marketing messages imploring you to vote for Ian Kinsler. I can understand why the Texas Ranger organization would want another representative at the All Star game. I can understand why Ranger fans would hope to see another Ranger make the trip to St. Louis.
I don’t understand why any non-Ranger fan/employee would vote for Ian Kinsler. Kinsler has some impressive numbers: 20 homeruns; more than 50 RBI; 16 stolen bases. That all looks impressive – but he hasn’t been nearly as good as his numbers would suggest.
In April, Kinsler produced a ridiculous .322/.384/.656 line. He was one of the best players in baseball and it appeared that he had carried momentum from his great 2008 season into 2009. Then the calendar turned to May.
Since May 3rd, Kinsler has seen his average drop from .337 to .253; he has seen his OPS drop from 1.092 to .831 and his offensive presence has all but disappeared. In fact, since his hot April start, Kinsler has produced the very ugly line of .231/.320/.462 with an OPS of .782.
If you dig deeper, you will find a more disturbing statistic: while producing a .955 OPS at offensive-inclined Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, he has wilted on the road, posting a measly .679 OPS.
Kinsler has played well during one month of 2009, he has been a non-factor on the road and he just ended an 0-23 slump. Sorry Ranger fans, I just don’t think that resume shouts “All Star selection.”
If you are a Ranger fan or have watched any recent Ranger games, you have undoubtedly seen numerous marketing messages imploring you to vote for Ian Kinsler. I can understand why the Texas Ranger organization would want another representative at the All Star game. I can understand why Ranger fans would hope to see another Ranger make the trip to St. Louis.
I don’t understand why any non-Ranger fan/employee would vote for Ian Kinsler. Kinsler has some impressive numbers: 20 homeruns; more than 50 RBI; 16 stolen bases. That all looks impressive – but he hasn’t been nearly as good as his numbers would suggest.
In April, Kinsler produced a ridiculous .322/.384/.656 line. He was one of the best players in baseball and it appeared that he had carried momentum from his great 2008 season into 2009. Then the calendar turned to May.
Since May 3rd, Kinsler has seen his average drop from .337 to .253; he has seen his OPS drop from 1.092 to .831 and his offensive presence has all but disappeared. In fact, since his hot April start, Kinsler has produced the very ugly line of .231/.320/.462 with an OPS of .782.
If you dig deeper, you will find a more disturbing statistic: while producing a .955 OPS at offensive-inclined Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, he has wilted on the road, posting a measly .679 OPS.
Kinsler has played well during one month of 2009, he has been a non-factor on the road and he just ended an 0-23 slump. Sorry Ranger fans, I just don’t think that resume shouts “All Star selection.”
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Blessing in Disguise
The Rangers just lost 2 of 3 at home to the lowly Padres and last night began a 3 game series with the Division leading Angels with a loss. The Rangers have 12 games left before the All Star break including 5 against the Angels (2 at home and 3 on the road) 3 against the hottest team (and maybe most talented) team in the AL, the Tampa Bay Rays, and 4 on the road against the resurrected Mariners. There is a better than good chance that the Rangers come out of this stretch with a 4-8 record. This could, and probably will, end most thoughts that the Rangers will contend for a Division title this year. The Rangers were at least a year ahead of schedule anyway but it's unfortunate because you simply never know when you might be back in a position to contend.
The good news: this should force the Rangers to become sellers at the deadline. Padilla might have damaged his value by giving up 5 straight hits in the 6th last night (all of them shots including 2 homers) but he might have some value in the marketplace...assuming that Texas would pick up a significant piece of his salary. Texas also has an array of average major-leaguers on the bench that can be had for a bus ticket. Hopefully someone sees value in the left-handed bat of Blalock. Regrettably, that last statement includes his strongest attribute. The fact that he hits (in Ranger vocabulary meaning swings) from the left side of the plate is his biggest attribute. I think even Ranger management finally had seen enough of the all or nothing (most often nothing) swing of Blalock as Triple A call-up Julio Borbon took over DH duties last night.
The Rangers are also rich at the catcher position and there is always value there. Maybe a little overexposure this year has tarnished Teagarden's star somewhat, but just take a look around the league; there aren’t that many serviceable catchers that have the upside that he does. I’m not sure that they can get today what they could have last year, but he should have some worth out there.
I know the knee-jerk Ranger fans are always looking to move CJ (inexplicably after a 315 ft home run…CJ how could you) but this is one player that management should say hands off. He has wicked stuff and has shown he can close games, a rare commodity. He has the makeup and the stuff to be a top line closer anywhere in the league and he is just 29. This is fairly young by bullpen standards.
All things considered, the lack of offense and the swoon in June has been disappointing, but in the end it may serve the Rangers and Ranger fans well. The temptation to sacrifice a prospect or two for another bat or a starting pitcher has to be diminished by the play on the field of late. In reality, this team is more than one and probably two above average major leaguers from catching the Angels. Let’s stand pat and let the kids grow. Just wait till next year...oh yeah I think I’ve said that before.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Texas Rangers Offense: The Ugly Truth
Over the last month, Rangers fans have been subjected to something not familiar to these parts: bad offense. Yes – that’s right – the Texas Rangers are having major offensive issues.
For the month of June, Texas owns the 2nd lowest batting average (.218), the worst on-base percentage (.277) and has scored the 2nd fewest runs in all of baseball. I never thought that I would say this but, the Texas Rangers have no offense.
Many continue to wonder why this is happening. Is this a result of Milton Bradley leaving? Partly. Is this happening because Josh Hamilton is hurt? That’s definitely part of it. But there might be larger factors at play that Texas fans do not want to recognize: maybe this offense just isn’t very good.
Think about it: on any given day, the Rangers’ lineup includes Chris Davis, Elvis Andrus, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, David Murphy and Nelson Cruz. None of those guys have even two full years of major-league experience.
Texas consistently relies on young and inexperienced players to complete more than half of their lineup. What did you expect? Most young players initially struggle upon making it to the big-leagues – Texas just happens to have more young guys than most teams. Remember, 2009 was meant to be a developmental year for the organization. Andrus, Davis, Salty, Teagarden and Cruz were slotted to get extended playing time to help Rangers’ General Manager, Jon Daniels, determine what players will be here for the long-haul.
Before the season, most expected Texas to struggle. Luckily for the metroplex, Texas got off to a hot start and has provided the area with some really exciting baseball through June. Yes, the offense has really struggled recently, but you have to keep things in perspective. It’s not all about this year – it’s about building a core of players that will be here for the next decade. Most young guys don’t step into a major-league lineup and immediately light it up. It generally takes time and we are witnessing that development take place at the major-league level.
Don’t give up on these guys and don’t call for changes. This is a young, promising team that has limitless potential. Like with any young team, there will be bumps along the road – but that doesn’t mean that you decide to go a different direction.
For the month of June, Texas owns the 2nd lowest batting average (.218), the worst on-base percentage (.277) and has scored the 2nd fewest runs in all of baseball. I never thought that I would say this but, the Texas Rangers have no offense.
Many continue to wonder why this is happening. Is this a result of Milton Bradley leaving? Partly. Is this happening because Josh Hamilton is hurt? That’s definitely part of it. But there might be larger factors at play that Texas fans do not want to recognize: maybe this offense just isn’t very good.
Think about it: on any given day, the Rangers’ lineup includes Chris Davis, Elvis Andrus, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, David Murphy and Nelson Cruz. None of those guys have even two full years of major-league experience.
Texas consistently relies on young and inexperienced players to complete more than half of their lineup. What did you expect? Most young players initially struggle upon making it to the big-leagues – Texas just happens to have more young guys than most teams. Remember, 2009 was meant to be a developmental year for the organization. Andrus, Davis, Salty, Teagarden and Cruz were slotted to get extended playing time to help Rangers’ General Manager, Jon Daniels, determine what players will be here for the long-haul.
Before the season, most expected Texas to struggle. Luckily for the metroplex, Texas got off to a hot start and has provided the area with some really exciting baseball through June. Yes, the offense has really struggled recently, but you have to keep things in perspective. It’s not all about this year – it’s about building a core of players that will be here for the next decade. Most young guys don’t step into a major-league lineup and immediately light it up. It generally takes time and we are witnessing that development take place at the major-league level.
Don’t give up on these guys and don’t call for changes. This is a young, promising team that has limitless potential. Like with any young team, there will be bumps along the road – but that doesn’t mean that you decide to go a different direction.
Friday, June 19, 2009
What has happened to Taylor Teagarden?
From my dad last night:
Aside from the Teagarden issue, last night Texas implemented another brilliant 9th inning strategy. Marlon Byrd was on first-base and, while the team trailed by 2, he decided to steal second. Though the replay showed that he was thrown out, the umpire called him safe. Despite successfully stealing the bag, this is just another example verifying that this team simply doesn’t understand baseball fundamentals. When you are trailing by 2 in the 9th – and you aren’t even the tying run – you do not risk getting thrown out trying to steal. That’s baseball 101.
At some point, these mental errors are going to cost this team. It’s one thing to play “stupid” baseball when you aren’t a very good team. But when you are in first place and in the middle of a pennant race, a couple stupid mistakes could be the difference between winning the pennant and watching the playoffs from your couch. Hopefully Texas realizes that sooner rather than later.
Well last night I saw something I have never seen before...well at least not in baseball. Padilla scored by going 5-hole against Taylor Teagarden. Unfortunately they're on the same team and they weren't playing hockey. Yes, that's right, Taylor missed a fastball right between his legs. At least it wasn't in a crucial situation...that is unless you think that having the bases-loaded constitutes a crucial situation.
Later that inning, on a play at the plate, Teagarden is inexplicably two feet in front of the baseline instead of near homeplate. As usual, Cruz's throw comes in like a heat-seeking missile, but Teagarden is so far in front of the plate that he can't apply the tag. If he just sets up the way any average catcher would, the ball still reaches him in the air and he's in position to make the tag. Once again, at least it wasn't in a crucial situation...that is unless you think keeping the other team from scoring is somehow important to the final outcome.
This kid has gone from being a top-rated prospect to barely being a usable backup. He has been totally over matched all year at the plate (see Chris Davis) and now his defense is so unreliable that I can't remember a time when the Rangers have had such a poor backup behind the plate. I actually felt sorry for Padilla last night - and it takes a lot for that to happen.
Aside from the Teagarden issue, last night Texas implemented another brilliant 9th inning strategy. Marlon Byrd was on first-base and, while the team trailed by 2, he decided to steal second. Though the replay showed that he was thrown out, the umpire called him safe. Despite successfully stealing the bag, this is just another example verifying that this team simply doesn’t understand baseball fundamentals. When you are trailing by 2 in the 9th – and you aren’t even the tying run – you do not risk getting thrown out trying to steal. That’s baseball 101.
At some point, these mental errors are going to cost this team. It’s one thing to play “stupid” baseball when you aren’t a very good team. But when you are in first place and in the middle of a pennant race, a couple stupid mistakes could be the difference between winning the pennant and watching the playoffs from your couch. Hopefully Texas realizes that sooner rather than later.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Washington Hates "The Book"
The Rangers pulled out a thrilling victory last night in 10 innings. The win helped Texas maintain a 2-game lead in the AL West and helped Ron Washington avoid having to answer questions about his insane management strategy in the 9th.
Situation:
In the bottom of the 9th, the Astros brought in their stud closer, Jose Valverde. The right-hander promptly allowed a leadoff double to Marlon Byrd bringing up Chris Davis.
The situation called for a bunt; however, throughout his ML career, Davis had never bunted. He did not bunt in this situation either. Instead, he flew out in a rather hapless at-bat. After a Jarrod Saltalamacchia strikeout, Omar Vizquel walked towards the plate.
Vizquel was hitting .323 on the season and had been 3-8 against Valverde, including being 2 for his last 2. Vizquel had gone 1-3 during the game and had looked pretty locked-in at the plate. It seemed like a good situation for the Rangers but...
Enter Ron Washington.
Instead of letting the scrappy Vizquel face Valverde, Washington summoned for a pinch-hitter. Andruw Jones exited the dugout, took a few practice swings and stepped to the plate.
Wait a minute! Andruw Jones? Really? Washington not only went against "the book," he burned it (and I'm not sure that Washington's "book" isn't just a picture-book to begin with...). Let's take a look at just how stupid the decision was:
Washington removed a hitter that:
created a lefty-righty matchup...
was hitting .323 on the season...
had played the entire game and looked good at the plate (1-3)...
and he replaced him with a hitter that:
created a righty-righty matchup...
was hitting .143 in June...
had not played all night and was coming into the game "cold."
Jones struck out on 3 pitches. Well done Wash, well done.
Here is a quote from my dad after Washington received his extension last week:
Washington just looks like he is guessing out there. If you are going to pinch-hit in the 9th, you pinch-hit Andrus for Davis (who is hitting .200) and move the runner over.
Runner at 3rd, one out and numerous ways in which you can score.
Washington is simply an over-manager. He apparently believes that going "by the book" is simply too easy. Too many times in his tenure in Texas, he has made decisions based on a "gut" feeling. Like my dad said, sometimes it works - but most of the time it doesn't. They call it "the book" for a reason: it usually works.
If Texas wants to contend throughout all of 2009, Washington better get his ego in-check. Stop trying to be the genius that constantly goes against the grain. Just play it by the numbers: try to create lefty-righty matchups; stop using Guardado during close games; don't create something that isn't there.
Use the book Ron, use the book.
Situation:
In the bottom of the 9th, the Astros brought in their stud closer, Jose Valverde. The right-hander promptly allowed a leadoff double to Marlon Byrd bringing up Chris Davis.
The situation called for a bunt; however, throughout his ML career, Davis had never bunted. He did not bunt in this situation either. Instead, he flew out in a rather hapless at-bat. After a Jarrod Saltalamacchia strikeout, Omar Vizquel walked towards the plate.
Vizquel was hitting .323 on the season and had been 3-8 against Valverde, including being 2 for his last 2. Vizquel had gone 1-3 during the game and had looked pretty locked-in at the plate. It seemed like a good situation for the Rangers but...
Enter Ron Washington.
Instead of letting the scrappy Vizquel face Valverde, Washington summoned for a pinch-hitter. Andruw Jones exited the dugout, took a few practice swings and stepped to the plate.
Wait a minute! Andruw Jones? Really? Washington not only went against "the book," he burned it (and I'm not sure that Washington's "book" isn't just a picture-book to begin with...). Let's take a look at just how stupid the decision was:
Washington removed a hitter that:
created a lefty-righty matchup...
was hitting .323 on the season...
had played the entire game and looked good at the plate (1-3)...
and he replaced him with a hitter that:
created a righty-righty matchup...
was hitting .143 in June...
had not played all night and was coming into the game "cold."
Jones struck out on 3 pitches. Well done Wash, well done.
Here is a quote from my dad after Washington received his extension last week:
Look - sometimes good moves don't work, sometimes dumb moves do, but playing it by “the book" works more times than not...that's how it became "the book!” This team needs Wash to just get out of the way...try not to trip over the bats and balls as we roll them out there.
Washington just looks like he is guessing out there. If you are going to pinch-hit in the 9th, you pinch-hit Andrus for Davis (who is hitting .200) and move the runner over.
Runner at 3rd, one out and numerous ways in which you can score.
Washington is simply an over-manager. He apparently believes that going "by the book" is simply too easy. Too many times in his tenure in Texas, he has made decisions based on a "gut" feeling. Like my dad said, sometimes it works - but most of the time it doesn't. They call it "the book" for a reason: it usually works.
If Texas wants to contend throughout all of 2009, Washington better get his ego in-check. Stop trying to be the genius that constantly goes against the grain. Just play it by the numbers: try to create lefty-righty matchups; stop using Guardado during close games; don't create something that isn't there.
Use the book Ron, use the book.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Where do they go from here?
The Texas Rangers just completed murderer’s row within their schedule. During the last 25 games, Texas played six against the Yankees, three against the Red Sox, four against the Blue Jays, three against the Tigers and three against the Dodgers, the team who currently sports the best record in all of baseball.
Despite 19 of the 25 being against teams with winnings records, Texas managed to hang tough by going 12-13 during that stretch. Though Texas’ division lead has been trimmed to two games, there is good news on the horizon: 8 of their next 11 games will be against teams with sub-.500 records.
The schedule for the next two weeks features three against the Astros, three against the Giants, three versus the Diamondbacks and another three-game set against the Padres. Their combined records are 118-133.
Texas needs to take advantage of the next two weeks because, after their series with San Diego, Texas will face another tough scheduling challenge including three against the Angels, four against the Mariners, three against the Twins and three against the Red Sox.
With Josh Hamilton out for an extended period of time and Frankie Francisco unavailable until Saturday (at the earliest), the Rangers will have to overcome some adversity. But over the next month, Texas will have the opportunity to establish themselves as legitimate contenders or, if things do not go well, they could once again prove that this isn’t their year.
It’s going to be fun to watch and whether they play well or not, it's fun to talk about possible contention in June rather than “wait ‘til next year” discussions.
Despite 19 of the 25 being against teams with winnings records, Texas managed to hang tough by going 12-13 during that stretch. Though Texas’ division lead has been trimmed to two games, there is good news on the horizon: 8 of their next 11 games will be against teams with sub-.500 records.
The schedule for the next two weeks features three against the Astros, three against the Giants, three versus the Diamondbacks and another three-game set against the Padres. Their combined records are 118-133.
Texas needs to take advantage of the next two weeks because, after their series with San Diego, Texas will face another tough scheduling challenge including three against the Angels, four against the Mariners, three against the Twins and three against the Red Sox.
With Josh Hamilton out for an extended period of time and Frankie Francisco unavailable until Saturday (at the earliest), the Rangers will have to overcome some adversity. But over the next month, Texas will have the opportunity to establish themselves as legitimate contenders or, if things do not go well, they could once again prove that this isn’t their year.
It’s going to be fun to watch and whether they play well or not, it's fun to talk about possible contention in June rather than “wait ‘til next year” discussions.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Lewinisms...
I have decided to begin tracking the "Lewinisms" uttered by Texas Rangers' play-by-play guy, Josh Lewin. First, we need to define a Lewinism:
Lewinism: any statement made during a baseball game that indicates a complete lack of baseball knowledge, leaving the audience temporarily motionless as they attempt to comprehend what was just said.
The "Lewinism" updates will detail numerous items verifying that Josh Lewin actually knows nothing about baseball.
Number One:
Today against the Dodgers, Lewin stated,
You may be asking yourself, "What James Loney is Lewin talking about? The only James Loney that I'm aware of is not a power-hitter and has actually been criticized because of his lack of power."
Confusion is the correct response. Yes, the "powerful" Loney has managed to tally an impressive two homeruns this year in 63 games. Yep, he's on pace for anywhere from 5-6 homeruns this year. He is a very, very "powerful" 1st baseman.
Grieve just responded with, "Well, Loney is more of a Lyle Overbay or Mark Grace-type hitter."
And then came the funniest part of the exchange: Lewin responded with, "Yep."
He doesn't even recognize when someone is attempting to call him out! If Grieve wasn't such a nice guy, he would respond more along these lines: "Actually Josh, you are completely wrong. Loney is not a "power" guy - he is a "contact" guy...a fact that renders your previous comment absolutely meaningless."
Grieve has to call him out at some point. It has to happen...someone tell me that it has to happen.
Number Two:
In the top of the 7th inning of today's game, Brad Ausmus walked to the plate. Lewin casually mentioned that
Already?! Ausmas was drafted in 1987! He has played in the MLs for 17 seasons. 17! But he has "already" moved into the top 10 in games-played. That's like going back to the 1500's and saying, "Did you year about that Michelangelo guy? He already finished the Sistine Chapel!"
"Cal Ripken already became the record-holder for consecutive games played." This is fun...you should try it.
Number Three:
This is an email from my dad on Saturday:
...like a slider without the spin?!" Seriously, I can't make this stuff up! What' next?...
Seriously, which of those two questions is more insane? I have thought about it for a few minutes now and I'm still not sure. I can't believe it...really, I can't. Absolute unintentional greatness!
The Rangers have a day off tomorrow but will take the field again on Tuesday. Needless to say, there will be a "Lewinism" update on Wednesday.
Lewinism: any statement made during a baseball game that indicates a complete lack of baseball knowledge, leaving the audience temporarily motionless as they attempt to comprehend what was just said.
The "Lewinism" updates will detail numerous items verifying that Josh Lewin actually knows nothing about baseball.
Number One:
Today against the Dodgers, Lewin stated,
"TAG (Tom Grieve), despite all the power that Loney brings to the table - he is a guy that walks almost as much as he strikes out."
You may be asking yourself, "What James Loney is Lewin talking about? The only James Loney that I'm aware of is not a power-hitter and has actually been criticized because of his lack of power."
Confusion is the correct response. Yes, the "powerful" Loney has managed to tally an impressive two homeruns this year in 63 games. Yep, he's on pace for anywhere from 5-6 homeruns this year. He is a very, very "powerful" 1st baseman.
Grieve just responded with, "Well, Loney is more of a Lyle Overbay or Mark Grace-type hitter."
And then came the funniest part of the exchange: Lewin responded with, "Yep."
He doesn't even recognize when someone is attempting to call him out! If Grieve wasn't such a nice guy, he would respond more along these lines: "Actually Josh, you are completely wrong. Loney is not a "power" guy - he is a "contact" guy...a fact that renders your previous comment absolutely meaningless."
Grieve has to call him out at some point. It has to happen...someone tell me that it has to happen.
Number Two:
In the top of the 7th inning of today's game, Brad Ausmus walked to the plate. Lewin casually mentioned that
"...Ausmus is already in the top 10 in terms of games-caught by major-league catchers."
Already?! Ausmas was drafted in 1987! He has played in the MLs for 17 seasons. 17! But he has "already" moved into the top 10 in games-played. That's like going back to the 1500's and saying, "Did you year about that Michelangelo guy? He already finished the Sistine Chapel!"
"Cal Ripken already became the record-holder for consecutive games played." This is fun...you should try it.
Number Three:
This is an email from my dad on Saturday:
In the 3rd inning, Josh wanted TAG to explain exactly what a cutter is: "So it’s like a slider but without the spin?"
Really? Are you kidding me? Without the spin? I would love to see Lewin explain the physics behind that one.
...like a slider without the spin?!" Seriously, I can't make this stuff up! What' next?...
"So the curve is like the fastball except that your arm curls around your head before you throw it, right?
Seriously, which of those two questions is more insane? I have thought about it for a few minutes now and I'm still not sure. I can't believe it...really, I can't. Absolute unintentional greatness!
The Rangers have a day off tomorrow but will take the field again on Tuesday. Needless to say, there will be a "Lewinism" update on Wednesday.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Why Don't You Like Magic?
Why don't you like Magic?
No, I’m not talking about the creepy type of magic that you see a pizza-delivery-guy/magician/clown do at a 4-year-old’s birthday party; I’m talking about the Orlando Magic. There is zero hype around this year’s NBA Finals. Seriously, it has drawn slightly more attention than a Petty Theft concert.
I just don’t know why. The Lakers obviously own a huge following – Lakers’ “fans” come out of the woodwork this time of year. Suddenly your coworker is wearing a Kobe jersey and has “always been a Lakers fan.” Los Angeles has a storied history and Kobe is one of the best players in the league – so I get why they would attract otherwise neutral fans.
But why don’t people like this Orlando team? Dwight Howard is one of the most talented and charismatic players in the game. He entertains during the dunk-contest, he plays hard, he doesn’t get into off-the-court trouble…he is the type of superstar that you want on your team. But for some reason, people don't connect with him and I’m not sure why.
When the Spurs were putting everyone to sleep during their championship runs, I could fully understand and appreciate why no one outside of San Antonio cared. They were simply boring all the way around. Their coach was boring; their superstar was boring; their style of play was boring. Like hockey and soccer – I get why people aren’t interested (ie…it’s really boring).
Orlando is the complete opposite. Porn-Stache - I mean Stan Van Gundy - is a pretty funny coach, whether it’s intentional or not. Dwight Howard has 15-minute conversations with Jack Nicholson before games in LA. Orlando runs up and down the court and shoots a ton of 3’s. They should be the team that neutral fans gravitate to, but I honestly can’t remember a Finals series that has had less appeal for the average sports fan.
Even the Spurs and Ben-Stein-Duncan had more appeal – even if it was people tuning in simply to root against them. Why aren’t the Lakers looked at as villains – and in turn – Orlando as the saviors? Why aren’t people taking an interest in rooting against Kobe? He is an easy guy to dislike.
After thinking about this for a while, I developed an explanation that I call the “Ruined Dream Theory.” Basically, it states that all neutral fans want to see the two best and most interesting teams match up in the championship game. Celtics-Lakers. Cowboys-Steelers. Yankees-Cubs. This year, all fans - in addition to the NBA Commissioner – wanted a Lebron-Kobe finale. During the Orlando-Cleveland series, everyone not living in Orlando was pulling for the fighting Lebrons to pull out a series win leading to the dream match-up in the Finals. Orlando needed to lose for this to happen...so people began to root against them.
In a way, I believe that fans have turned on Orlando because the Magic inadvertently ruined this NBA season. All year, everyone has talked about how great it would be to see King James face off against Kobe - but the dream has been ruined and Orlando is to blame.
Actually, the more I think about it, the more I am beginning to hate Orlando. Kobe vs. James? It doesn’t get better than that…and it was all flushed down the drain by the stupid Orlando Magic.
Based on this newly found theory – please join me in boycotting the remaining Finals’ games. If the viewer-ship remains low, Commissioner David Stern will be forced to, once again, resort to “fixing” the NBA Playoffs…and we will all be better off for it.
No, I’m not talking about the creepy type of magic that you see a pizza-delivery-guy/magician/clown do at a 4-year-old’s birthday party; I’m talking about the Orlando Magic. There is zero hype around this year’s NBA Finals. Seriously, it has drawn slightly more attention than a Petty Theft concert.
I just don’t know why. The Lakers obviously own a huge following – Lakers’ “fans” come out of the woodwork this time of year. Suddenly your coworker is wearing a Kobe jersey and has “always been a Lakers fan.” Los Angeles has a storied history and Kobe is one of the best players in the league – so I get why they would attract otherwise neutral fans.
But why don’t people like this Orlando team? Dwight Howard is one of the most talented and charismatic players in the game. He entertains during the dunk-contest, he plays hard, he doesn’t get into off-the-court trouble…he is the type of superstar that you want on your team. But for some reason, people don't connect with him and I’m not sure why.
When the Spurs were putting everyone to sleep during their championship runs, I could fully understand and appreciate why no one outside of San Antonio cared. They were simply boring all the way around. Their coach was boring; their superstar was boring; their style of play was boring. Like hockey and soccer – I get why people aren’t interested (ie…it’s really boring).
Orlando is the complete opposite. Porn-Stache - I mean Stan Van Gundy - is a pretty funny coach, whether it’s intentional or not. Dwight Howard has 15-minute conversations with Jack Nicholson before games in LA. Orlando runs up and down the court and shoots a ton of 3’s. They should be the team that neutral fans gravitate to, but I honestly can’t remember a Finals series that has had less appeal for the average sports fan.
Even the Spurs and Ben-Stein-Duncan had more appeal – even if it was people tuning in simply to root against them. Why aren’t the Lakers looked at as villains – and in turn – Orlando as the saviors? Why aren’t people taking an interest in rooting against Kobe? He is an easy guy to dislike.
After thinking about this for a while, I developed an explanation that I call the “Ruined Dream Theory.” Basically, it states that all neutral fans want to see the two best and most interesting teams match up in the championship game. Celtics-Lakers. Cowboys-Steelers. Yankees-Cubs. This year, all fans - in addition to the NBA Commissioner – wanted a Lebron-Kobe finale. During the Orlando-Cleveland series, everyone not living in Orlando was pulling for the fighting Lebrons to pull out a series win leading to the dream match-up in the Finals. Orlando needed to lose for this to happen...so people began to root against them.
In a way, I believe that fans have turned on Orlando because the Magic inadvertently ruined this NBA season. All year, everyone has talked about how great it would be to see King James face off against Kobe - but the dream has been ruined and Orlando is to blame.
Actually, the more I think about it, the more I am beginning to hate Orlando. Kobe vs. James? It doesn’t get better than that…and it was all flushed down the drain by the stupid Orlando Magic.
Based on this newly found theory – please join me in boycotting the remaining Finals’ games. If the viewer-ship remains low, Commissioner David Stern will be forced to, once again, resort to “fixing” the NBA Playoffs…and we will all be better off for it.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Ron Washington Option
After the Texas Rangers picked up Ron Washington’s contract option for 2010, I emailed my dad to see what he thought:
Blair @ 8:23am
Dad – what do you think about Washington coming back next year?
Dad @ 8:34am
OK, let me get this straight...through one-third of the season, Texas is 9 games over .500 after playing one of the weakest schedules in the American League and we feel the need to jump out there and give Ron Washington an extension? Was there some reason to knee jerk this move now? Was there this uncertainty in the clubhouse? Were we afraid we were gonna lose Washington to another team? I venture to say that this young club is 9 games over in spite of Ron Washington, not because of him.
Blair @ 8:43am
So…you liked the move?
Dad @ 8:54am
Look - sometimes good moves don't work, sometimes dumb moves do, but playing it by “the book" works more times than not...that's how it became "the book!” This team needs Wash to just get out of the way...try not to trip over the bats and balls as we roll them out there. Wash has made a litany of bad moves so far this year, but just for brevity sake, let's look at Monday’s game:
6th inning, runners on 1st and 3rd with one out and we've just been given 3 gift runs to draw within 4-3. With Elvis Andrus at the plate, Wash is not content to sit idly by and let the game take care of itself. Instead, the genius of Wash once again raises its ugly head: a SQUEEZE PLAY? Are you kidding me? Elvis Andrus at the plate...22 strike-outs in 163 at-bats...too fast to be doubled-up...and Wash goes with the all-or-nothing squeeze play just to tie?
There are ten ways to score a runner from 3rd with less than 2 outs. Ground out, error, sac fly, etc…Heaven forbid Andrus get the opportunity to get a base-hit where we're in position to go ahead in the game. Not to mention – if he somehow doesn't get the runner home - our leading RBI guy (Kinsler) is on deck. I take my chances 100 times out of 100 on Andrus making contact and/or Kinsler coming through.
Mike Basik (the Ticket) justified the move based on the fact that National League teams “have pitchers do it all the time.” Do you know why pitchers do it all the time? Because they hit .127 and strike-out more times than they don’t. If a batter is hitting .275 - and makes consistent contact – calling for a squeeze play is idiotic. The failed squeeze left Texas down a run and they eventually lost 6-3.
It was a ridiculous decision, but what is even more ridiculous is the fact we just gave this guy an extension. Idiocy!
Blair @ 8:58am
So…you liked the move?
Blair @ 8:23am
Dad – what do you think about Washington coming back next year?
Dad @ 8:34am
OK, let me get this straight...through one-third of the season, Texas is 9 games over .500 after playing one of the weakest schedules in the American League and we feel the need to jump out there and give Ron Washington an extension? Was there some reason to knee jerk this move now? Was there this uncertainty in the clubhouse? Were we afraid we were gonna lose Washington to another team? I venture to say that this young club is 9 games over in spite of Ron Washington, not because of him.
Blair @ 8:43am
So…you liked the move?
Dad @ 8:54am
Look - sometimes good moves don't work, sometimes dumb moves do, but playing it by “the book" works more times than not...that's how it became "the book!” This team needs Wash to just get out of the way...try not to trip over the bats and balls as we roll them out there. Wash has made a litany of bad moves so far this year, but just for brevity sake, let's look at Monday’s game:
6th inning, runners on 1st and 3rd with one out and we've just been given 3 gift runs to draw within 4-3. With Elvis Andrus at the plate, Wash is not content to sit idly by and let the game take care of itself. Instead, the genius of Wash once again raises its ugly head: a SQUEEZE PLAY? Are you kidding me? Elvis Andrus at the plate...22 strike-outs in 163 at-bats...too fast to be doubled-up...and Wash goes with the all-or-nothing squeeze play just to tie?
There are ten ways to score a runner from 3rd with less than 2 outs. Ground out, error, sac fly, etc…Heaven forbid Andrus get the opportunity to get a base-hit where we're in position to go ahead in the game. Not to mention – if he somehow doesn't get the runner home - our leading RBI guy (Kinsler) is on deck. I take my chances 100 times out of 100 on Andrus making contact and/or Kinsler coming through.
Mike Basik (the Ticket) justified the move based on the fact that National League teams “have pitchers do it all the time.” Do you know why pitchers do it all the time? Because they hit .127 and strike-out more times than they don’t. If a batter is hitting .275 - and makes consistent contact – calling for a squeeze play is idiotic. The failed squeeze left Texas down a run and they eventually lost 6-3.
It was a ridiculous decision, but what is even more ridiculous is the fact we just gave this guy an extension. Idiocy!
Blair @ 8:58am
So…you liked the move?
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Old School v GenX: Round 1
My dad was at the Rangers’ game on Saturday and sent me a text message regarding Michael Young that spiraled into an in-depth text-message battle:
Dad @ 1:31
Michael Young is the best pure “hitter” in baseball. He hits the ball where it’s pitched, always has good at bats and does what it takes to win the game. He is just awesome to watch.
Blair @ 1:37
He has been good so far this year...but OPS below .785 in 2007 and 2008.
Dad @ 1:45
Very comparable stats to Jeter each year and Young has more productive years to come. Not fair to compare a SS to sluggers by using OPS. Compare them to the role they play.
Blair at 2:11
Jeter has had a significantly better average and much better OBP throughout his career:
Derek Jeter: .316/.386/.458 (.844)
Hanley Ramirez: .309/.381/.528 (.909)
Miguel Tejada: .288/.342/.472 (.814)
Michael Young: .347/.445/.301 (.792)
Dad @ 2:19
OK…so Young is right there with some of the best short-stops in the game. Are you trying to make my case for me?
Blair @ 2:31
Ok old man – let me break it down for you:
Young had a total of 3 years in which he had an OPS above .785…
Jeter has 10 out of 14…
Tejada has 8 out of 12…
Hanley Ramirez has 3 out of 3 (while stealing 50 bases every year)…
He has had 3 above-average offensive years in 9 seasons. A career .300 hitter with a career OBP of .345 means that he simply doesn’t do a very good job of getting on base. I understand that every player isn’t going to hit for a ton of power – but a .345 OBP isn’t very good if you aren’t providing the team with other production (steals, power, etc…)
It’s a lot easier to get 200 hits every year when you aren’t willing to take a walk.
Dad @ 2:53
Wrong. As usual – you aren’t old or wise enough to recognize the flaws in your logic.
Dad @ 1:31
Michael Young is the best pure “hitter” in baseball. He hits the ball where it’s pitched, always has good at bats and does what it takes to win the game. He is just awesome to watch.
Blair @ 1:37
He has been good so far this year...but OPS below .785 in 2007 and 2008.
Dad @ 1:45
Very comparable stats to Jeter each year and Young has more productive years to come. Not fair to compare a SS to sluggers by using OPS. Compare them to the role they play.
Blair at 2:11
Jeter has had a significantly better average and much better OBP throughout his career:
Derek Jeter: .316/.386/.458 (.844)
Hanley Ramirez: .309/.381/.528 (.909)
Miguel Tejada: .288/.342/.472 (.814)
Michael Young: .347/.445/.301 (.792)
Dad @ 2:19
OK…so Young is right there with some of the best short-stops in the game. Are you trying to make my case for me?
Blair @ 2:31
Ok old man – let me break it down for you:
Young had a total of 3 years in which he had an OPS above .785…
Jeter has 10 out of 14…
Tejada has 8 out of 12…
Hanley Ramirez has 3 out of 3 (while stealing 50 bases every year)…
He has had 3 above-average offensive years in 9 seasons. A career .300 hitter with a career OBP of .345 means that he simply doesn’t do a very good job of getting on base. I understand that every player isn’t going to hit for a ton of power – but a .345 OBP isn’t very good if you aren’t providing the team with other production (steals, power, etc…)
It’s a lot easier to get 200 hits every year when you aren’t willing to take a walk.
Dad @ 2:53
Wrong. As usual – you aren’t old or wise enough to recognize the flaws in your logic.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Disturbing Rangers' Trend
After losing two of three to the Yankees, the Rangers continued a disturbing trend: they can't beat good teams.
During the first two months of 2009, Texas has played 31 of 46 games against teams with a losing record. In other words, the Rangers have benefited by playing 2/3 of their games against poor competition. To their credit, Texas has taken care of business and beaten the teams that they should beat.
In 31 games against teams with a losing record, the Rangers have produced:
* Record: 22-9 (.710 winning%)
* Team ERA: 4.22
* Runs/Game: 5.44
* Run Differential: 1.22
In 15 games against teams with a winning record, they have produced:
* Record: 5-10 (.333 winning%)
* Team ERA: 5.38
* Runs/Game: 3.80
* Run Differential: - 1.58
The splits are somewhat understandable: most teams will have better numbers against weaker competition than they do against upper-echelon teams. Having said that, the next month looms large for the Rangers' 2009 campaign: Texas faces winning teams in 13 of their next 17 games (Yankees, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Dodgers).
If this trend continues, Texas may find itself in a familiar place: hovering near the .500 mark. But if the Rangers can find a way to raise their game to the next level and post some wins against the big boys, they will solidify their spot as a legitimate contender.
The next month should be fun!
During the first two months of 2009, Texas has played 31 of 46 games against teams with a losing record. In other words, the Rangers have benefited by playing 2/3 of their games against poor competition. To their credit, Texas has taken care of business and beaten the teams that they should beat.
In 31 games against teams with a losing record, the Rangers have produced:
* Record: 22-9 (.710 winning%)
* Team ERA: 4.22
* Runs/Game: 5.44
* Run Differential: 1.22
In 15 games against teams with a winning record, they have produced:
* Record: 5-10 (.333 winning%)
* Team ERA: 5.38
* Runs/Game: 3.80
* Run Differential: - 1.58
The splits are somewhat understandable: most teams will have better numbers against weaker competition than they do against upper-echelon teams. Having said that, the next month looms large for the Rangers' 2009 campaign: Texas faces winning teams in 13 of their next 17 games (Yankees, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Dodgers).
If this trend continues, Texas may find itself in a familiar place: hovering near the .500 mark. But if the Rangers can find a way to raise their game to the next level and post some wins against the big boys, they will solidify their spot as a legitimate contender.
The next month should be fun!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Random Ranger Thoughts
Yesterday, after Texas was destroyed by the Yanks, my dad sent me an email that pretty well summed up the afternoon. It wasn't a fun game to watch:
That pretty much sums it up.
On a day when 7 of the major league teams scored in double digits (23% of the teams) and 4 of the games were decided by at least 10 runs (26% of the games) the Rangers were not quite as noticeable by their ineptness as they normally might have been. The game against the Yankees did reveal a concerning trend and no, it's not that Matt Harrison has been exposed as having only average major league stuff or that he might not be the real deal after all, it's the Ranger batting order showing an inconsistency that has almost reached the alarming point.
In a lineup full of bashers but very few "professional" hitters, once again the inability to make good contact and to know the strike zone was evident. A four hitter? Are you serious?? Against Phil Hughes? The ability to compete at the plate on a consistent basis requires hitters who know the strike zone, are able to hit the ball where it's pitched (see Michael Young) and hitters that can make good contact on a regular basis. This lineup is filled with too many 230 hitters at this point. Even Kinsler, who we can all agree is a star, is in a big slump mainly because of his insistence on pulling every pitch. There are not many major-leaguers that can swing at the pitches the Ranger swing at and get any better results than the Rangers do. Even Josh Hamilton is going to be prone to droughts of low power production and hitless nights if he doesn't become more selective at the plate.
I know we're going to stay with Davis even during his struggles but do we need to really stay with the Blalocks of the world? Is his flailing worth his once a week dinger? I know they've come at opportune times, but that won't always be the case. Let's start filling some of these holes in our batting order and work on the approach of our young stars. Staying in a slump for months (Davis) can irreparably harm a young players psyche forever. We have the best hitting coach in baseball so maybe it's time to lay down the law: learn the strike zone or grab a seat. Look in the farm system for a DH that has the potential to hit 300...we don't need more power we need more base runners. Just some random thoughts
That pretty much sums it up.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
What's That Sound?
As I sat in the stands, watching the Texas Ranger move nine games over .500, I turned to my dad and said, "Do you hear that sound?"
He asked, "What sound?"
"That's the sound of the metroplex jumping on the bandwagon!"
35,000 fans at the ballpark in May means one of two things: it's $1 hot-dog day or...DFW is hopping on the front-running train...at least until Texas loses three in a row.
(Side Note - does it bother anyone else that the Rangers see their attendance double on $1 hot-dog night? Idiocracy Warning: the only things that people will show up for in drones: release of the new i-phone, Jonas Brother concert and $1 hot-dog night. Very, very troubling)
We all know what bandwagon fans are - but you may not have realized that there are many different types of bandwagon fans. This two-part series will help identify and describe the ten different types of bandwagon fans:
1) Old-Timer
The old-timer is a “guy-that-used-to-follow-the-team…then-disappeared…but-has-returned-now-that-the-team-is-winning” guy. He watched Texas suck in the 70’s and 80’s, gave up on the team, came back in the late 90’s, and then disappeared along with Rick Helling.
This guy is usually rather crusty and almost seems unhappy to be back at the ballpark
2) Newcomer
The newcomer is a young guy that has never really been into baseball, but now that there isn’t anything else to do around town, has joined the crowd at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. This is the guy that usually shows up in the 3rd inning, spends two innings going to and from the bathroom, concessions, etc…and leaves in the 7th of a 2-2 game citing “traffic” as the cause. He will only attend games if it fits perfectly within his schedule.
This is the guy that will walk .5 mile/hour through the grandstand looking at all of the "colors and decorations" as if he were touring the Guggenheim. Wow.
3) Chris-Chris
The Chris-Chris is “that guy.” You have known him for years and have never heard him discuss the Rangers (or baseball at all for that matter), but he now eats, drinks and sleeps Ranger baseball. He will constantly throw comments around like, “Man – HOW could you miss last night’s game?! Dude – The Milly was throwing some cheese and the Hambino totally destroyed hanger! It was totally insane, man! Can’t believe you missed it!”
This guy will only be seen when the team gets on a streak. As soon as the Rangers hit a bump in the road, he is out like Taylor Teagarden.
4) Owner-Hater
The Owner-Hater begrudgingly attends games to “support the players” despite hating the owner. You will see him cheering on his favorite team when they win, but will consistently throw-in comments suggesting that, “This team could really be something if we didn’t have a small-market payroll!” or “Sure would be nice to have Teixeira hitting cleanup (ignoring the fact that Salty, Andrus and Harrison have propelled this team into 1st place)!”
This guy wants Texas to finish last just to reiterate that Hicks’ “small-market payroll” has doomed the franchise.
5) Cougar
This term is self-explanatory…especially in Dallas. Anytime there is a new, trendy place to be seen (especially one that allows you to wear skimpy clothing), the cougars will come out. At the ballpark, most Cougars will be found in the Cuervo Club – but occasionally, they will sneak down to the lower level seats. With the Mavericks’ run now over – and the Ghost Bar slowing down on weekdays – Ranger games offer these women with a new hunting ground.
Most guys will mention how "trashy" she looks in an effort to provide himself with an excuse to keep looking. Well played, sir, well played.
He asked, "What sound?"
"That's the sound of the metroplex jumping on the bandwagon!"
35,000 fans at the ballpark in May means one of two things: it's $1 hot-dog day or...DFW is hopping on the front-running train...at least until Texas loses three in a row.
(Side Note - does it bother anyone else that the Rangers see their attendance double on $1 hot-dog night? Idiocracy Warning: the only things that people will show up for in drones: release of the new i-phone, Jonas Brother concert and $1 hot-dog night. Very, very troubling)
We all know what bandwagon fans are - but you may not have realized that there are many different types of bandwagon fans. This two-part series will help identify and describe the ten different types of bandwagon fans:
1) Old-Timer
The old-timer is a “guy-that-used-to-follow-the-team…then-disappeared…but-has-returned-now-that-the-team-is-winning” guy. He watched Texas suck in the 70’s and 80’s, gave up on the team, came back in the late 90’s, and then disappeared along with Rick Helling.
This guy is usually rather crusty and almost seems unhappy to be back at the ballpark
2) Newcomer
The newcomer is a young guy that has never really been into baseball, but now that there isn’t anything else to do around town, has joined the crowd at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. This is the guy that usually shows up in the 3rd inning, spends two innings going to and from the bathroom, concessions, etc…and leaves in the 7th of a 2-2 game citing “traffic” as the cause. He will only attend games if it fits perfectly within his schedule.
This is the guy that will walk .5 mile/hour through the grandstand looking at all of the "colors and decorations" as if he were touring the Guggenheim. Wow.
3) Chris-Chris
The Chris-Chris is “that guy.” You have known him for years and have never heard him discuss the Rangers (or baseball at all for that matter), but he now eats, drinks and sleeps Ranger baseball. He will constantly throw comments around like, “Man – HOW could you miss last night’s game?! Dude – The Milly was throwing some cheese and the Hambino totally destroyed hanger! It was totally insane, man! Can’t believe you missed it!”
This guy will only be seen when the team gets on a streak. As soon as the Rangers hit a bump in the road, he is out like Taylor Teagarden.
4) Owner-Hater
The Owner-Hater begrudgingly attends games to “support the players” despite hating the owner. You will see him cheering on his favorite team when they win, but will consistently throw-in comments suggesting that, “This team could really be something if we didn’t have a small-market payroll!” or “Sure would be nice to have Teixeira hitting cleanup (ignoring the fact that Salty, Andrus and Harrison have propelled this team into 1st place)!”
This guy wants Texas to finish last just to reiterate that Hicks’ “small-market payroll” has doomed the franchise.
5) Cougar
This term is self-explanatory…especially in Dallas. Anytime there is a new, trendy place to be seen (especially one that allows you to wear skimpy clothing), the cougars will come out. At the ballpark, most Cougars will be found in the Cuervo Club – but occasionally, they will sneak down to the lower level seats. With the Mavericks’ run now over – and the Ghost Bar slowing down on weekdays – Ranger games offer these women with a new hunting ground.
Most guys will mention how "trashy" she looks in an effort to provide himself with an excuse to keep looking. Well played, sir, well played.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Podcast #3 - Mavs Win
Podcast #3 - Mavericks Playoff Win
I discuss the Mavericks playoff win, Mark Cuban and Dirk's bad wrap with my good buddy Mike Tennison.
I discuss the Mavericks playoff win, Mark Cuban and Dirk's bad wrap with my good buddy Mike Tennison.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Hope is a Strategy
You can call them old. You can call them unathletic. You can call them pretenders.
But you cannot call the Mavericks quitters. After the gut-wrenching loss on Saturday, this team had every reason to tank Game 4 last night. The team faced the impossible task of attempting to overcome a 3-0 series deficit while facing a team that had beaten them seven straight times during the season.
After the meltdown on Saturday, I half-expected Dallas to not show up last night. But Dirk and Co. did show up. Despite trailing throughout the majority of the game, the Mavericks continued to fight. Every time they rallied to get within a couple of points, Denver would hit an off-balance three or get to the foul-line. But Dallas was relentless.
Dirk dominated (as he has all series long, despite his comments regarding Denver's defense). Barea added a spark off the bench. Overall - given the situation - it was a fun game to watch. Does Dallas have a chance of winning this series? Um...no. But in a sport where teams constantly fold when facing insurmountable odds, it was refreshing to see guys playing hard until the final seconds.
Dallas will now travel to Denver to face the Nuggets in Game 5. It's a long shot, but what if the Mavericks find a way to scratch out a Game 5 win in Denver? They haven't been blown out during any game in this series and they have been within striking distance during the 4th quarter of each road game.
Yes, it's unlikely that Dallas pulls another one out...but what if they do? What if Chauncy Billups rolls an ankle? What if Carmelo tweaks his back? Crazier things have happened.
And if Dallas could somehow squeak out a game on the road, this will suddenly be a series again. If nothing else, last night gave Mavericks fan hope - and that is all that we could ask for.
But you cannot call the Mavericks quitters. After the gut-wrenching loss on Saturday, this team had every reason to tank Game 4 last night. The team faced the impossible task of attempting to overcome a 3-0 series deficit while facing a team that had beaten them seven straight times during the season.
After the meltdown on Saturday, I half-expected Dallas to not show up last night. But Dirk and Co. did show up. Despite trailing throughout the majority of the game, the Mavericks continued to fight. Every time they rallied to get within a couple of points, Denver would hit an off-balance three or get to the foul-line. But Dallas was relentless.
Dirk dominated (as he has all series long, despite his comments regarding Denver's defense). Barea added a spark off the bench. Overall - given the situation - it was a fun game to watch. Does Dallas have a chance of winning this series? Um...no. But in a sport where teams constantly fold when facing insurmountable odds, it was refreshing to see guys playing hard until the final seconds.
Dallas will now travel to Denver to face the Nuggets in Game 5. It's a long shot, but what if the Mavericks find a way to scratch out a Game 5 win in Denver? They haven't been blown out during any game in this series and they have been within striking distance during the 4th quarter of each road game.
Yes, it's unlikely that Dallas pulls another one out...but what if they do? What if Chauncy Billups rolls an ankle? What if Carmelo tweaks his back? Crazier things have happened.
And if Dallas could somehow squeak out a game on the road, this will suddenly be a series again. If nothing else, last night gave Mavericks fan hope - and that is all that we could ask for.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
The Worst 30 Seconds of the Year
Hopefully you Mavericks' fans have had time to wipe away the tears. The missed foul call will continue to garner the most attention around the Dallas area (the league has announced that the game officials did "miss" the foul call), but that isn't the story - at least not to me. I hate to twist the knife, but let's look at the last 31 seconds of Saturday's game:
Take a look:
Dallas took a 4-point lead with 31.1 seconds remaining in the game. Denver proceeded to take a timeout. Dallas simply needed to play good, solid defense and, if nothing else, force the Nuggets to use some clock. That didn't happen.
Denver inbounded the ball and Carmelo Anthony scored in 2.6 seconds. Seriously? 2.6 seconds of defense? In the biggest game of the season - coming out of a timeout - that's all the Mavs had to offer? If they would have played - I don't know - seven seconds of defense, that would have probably been enough. If the Mavericks could have held Denver scoreless for seven freaking seconds, even if they scored, the Nuggets would have then faced the uphill battle of fouling Dallas in an attempt to get the ball back.
Allowing Denver to score in 2.6 seconds left 28.5 seconds on the game-clock, resulting in a 4.5-second difference between the game-clock and the shot-clock. instead of having to foul, Denver just needed a defensive stand. This leads us to the next Dallas miscue...
As mentioned above, there was a 4.5-second difference between the game-clock and shot-clock (28.5 to 24). If Dallas could have simply run clock and gotten a shot off with 1-2 seconds left on the shot-clock, Denver - at best - would have gotten the ball back with 2-3 seconds remaining. That didn't happen.
With 10 seconds remaining on the shot-clock, Dirk began his offensive approach. After spinning and adding a pump-fake, Dirk implausibly took a shot with 5 seconds remaining on the shot-clock. Denver rebounded the miss with 6.5 seconds left in the game.
I love Dirk, but that is simply unacceptable. Think about it: Dirk shot with 5 seconds remaining on the shot-clock and Denver rebounded with 6.5 seconds. Had Dirk used the remaining 5 seconds before shooting, Denver maybe gets the ball back with 2 seconds left. Two seconds on the clock limits the offensive team to a catch-and-shoot situation. Six seconds provides an offense with all kinds of options...as we had the pleasure of seeing.
All that matters now is that Dallas trails 3-0. Was a foul-call missed? Sure...it sucks, but let's not pretend that the missed-call cost the Mavericks the game. When you have a 4-point lead...at home...with 31 seconds remaining...you don't lose without making significant mistakes. The Mavericks need only look in the mirror should they want to see the Game 3 culprits.
* Terry 3pt Shot - [DAL 105-101] - 00:31.1
* Denver Timout - 00:31.1
* Anthony Driving Dunk Shot - [DEN 103-105] - 00:28.5
* Dallas Timeout - 00:21.1
* Nowitzki Jump Shot - Billups Rebound - 00:06.5
* Anthony 3pt Shot - [DEN 106-105] - 00:01.0
* Dallas Timeout - 00:01.0
* Nowitzki 3pt Shot - [DEN 106-105] - Final
Take a look:
Dallas took a 4-point lead with 31.1 seconds remaining in the game. Denver proceeded to take a timeout. Dallas simply needed to play good, solid defense and, if nothing else, force the Nuggets to use some clock. That didn't happen.
Denver inbounded the ball and Carmelo Anthony scored in 2.6 seconds. Seriously? 2.6 seconds of defense? In the biggest game of the season - coming out of a timeout - that's all the Mavs had to offer? If they would have played - I don't know - seven seconds of defense, that would have probably been enough. If the Mavericks could have held Denver scoreless for seven freaking seconds, even if they scored, the Nuggets would have then faced the uphill battle of fouling Dallas in an attempt to get the ball back.
Allowing Denver to score in 2.6 seconds left 28.5 seconds on the game-clock, resulting in a 4.5-second difference between the game-clock and the shot-clock. instead of having to foul, Denver just needed a defensive stand. This leads us to the next Dallas miscue...
As mentioned above, there was a 4.5-second difference between the game-clock and shot-clock (28.5 to 24). If Dallas could have simply run clock and gotten a shot off with 1-2 seconds left on the shot-clock, Denver - at best - would have gotten the ball back with 2-3 seconds remaining. That didn't happen.
With 10 seconds remaining on the shot-clock, Dirk began his offensive approach. After spinning and adding a pump-fake, Dirk implausibly took a shot with 5 seconds remaining on the shot-clock. Denver rebounded the miss with 6.5 seconds left in the game.
I love Dirk, but that is simply unacceptable. Think about it: Dirk shot with 5 seconds remaining on the shot-clock and Denver rebounded with 6.5 seconds. Had Dirk used the remaining 5 seconds before shooting, Denver maybe gets the ball back with 2 seconds left. Two seconds on the clock limits the offensive team to a catch-and-shoot situation. Six seconds provides an offense with all kinds of options...as we had the pleasure of seeing.
All that matters now is that Dallas trails 3-0. Was a foul-call missed? Sure...it sucks, but let's not pretend that the missed-call cost the Mavericks the game. When you have a 4-point lead...at home...with 31 seconds remaining...you don't lose without making significant mistakes. The Mavericks need only look in the mirror should they want to see the Game 3 culprits.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Brett Shipp is a Sad, Little Man
Dirk Nowitzki comments, from the Dallas Morning News:
Why does Brett Shipp suck so bad?
"It's pretty obvious that I'm going through a tough time in my personal life right now," Dirk said. "Like I always have, I want to kind of keep my private life private...I'm more than happy to answer basketball questions, but I think at this point, I just can't talk about it."
Dirk's session with the media horde ended abruptly when WFAA Ch. 8's Brett Shipp attempted to ask about claims by Cristal Taylor, the 37-year-old woman arrested, that she is engaged to Dirk and pregnant with his child.
"I'm not commenting on that," Dirk said repeatedly.
Why does Brett Shipp suck so bad?
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Getting a Raw Deal
Take a look at these playoff numbers:
25.1 points/game
11.0 rebounds/game
45% shooting
87.6% free-throw shooter
37% three-point shooter
Pretty impressive, right? You would think that someone who produces these type of post-season numbers would deserve the most utmost respect from players and former players around the league. He doesn't.
Dirk Nowitzki has become one of the best playoff producers in the history of the NBA. Every year, he takes his game to another level when the playoffs begin. He scores more. He drives more. He rebounds more. And yes, he is criticized more.
After the first game of the Denver series, Dirk was asked about the three different defenders that the Nuggets threw at him and what they each do to make his life difficult. He responded by saying:
TNT analysts Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Chris Webber took this opportunity to blast Nowitzki. Webber suggested that Dirk was "soft" because,
Barkley dogpiled by adding,
Kenny then claimed,
I love Kenny and Charles, but what the hell are they talking about? Seriously. Dirk was asked about each defender and what each does differently. He answered the question. He said that Birdman was long and challenged shots while Kenyon Martin and Nene were more physical.
He didn't say that they 'could stop him.'
He didn't say that he hated playing them.
He didn't say that he couldn't score against them.
He simply described their defensive styles.
I just don't get it. If Dirk had scored 10 points in each game and then said that Denver's defense was just 'too good to overcome,' I could understand the criticism. But Dirk isn't struggling. In actuality, he is dominating.
For the series, Dirk is shooting 54% (23 of 42), has averaged 31.5 points/game and has pulled down 19 rebounds. Last night, the day after "giving props" to Denver's defense, Dirk put a 35 spot on the Nuggets. If Dirk hadn't said anything, would he have scored 50?
Dirk is just a guy that can't win. Despite having better numbers in the playoffs than he does in the regular season, Dirk still deals with accusations that he can't produce in the clutch (I guess haters missed Game 7 in San Antonio during the Finals' run). Despite refining his game and driving to the rim (something that he was accused of being afraid to do early in his career), Dirk still doesn't get the calls that Wade, Kobe, Lebron and company get.
And despite constantly saying/doing the right things, he can't avoid criticism. It's just idiotic. Dirk gets less respect than any other NBA Superstar that I can remember. The guy has transformed into one of the greatest post-season scorers of all time, and instead of hearing, I don't know - about the fact that he is torching Denver in this series, we only hear that Dirk is "soft" and said something that Kobe would "never" say.
It's really sickening. Maybe on Saturday, when Dirk lights up the scoreboard for another 35 points, he will cheap-shot Kenyon Martin in the back of the head...you know, to gain some street-cred. Apparently, that's what it's all about.
25.1 points/game
11.0 rebounds/game
45% shooting
87.6% free-throw shooter
37% three-point shooter
Pretty impressive, right? You would think that someone who produces these type of post-season numbers would deserve the most utmost respect from players and former players around the league. He doesn't.
Dirk Nowitzki has become one of the best playoff producers in the history of the NBA. Every year, he takes his game to another level when the playoffs begin. He scores more. He drives more. He rebounds more. And yes, he is criticized more.
After the first game of the Denver series, Dirk was asked about the three different defenders that the Nuggets threw at him and what they each do to make his life difficult. He responded by saying:
I think Birdman does a good job because he’s so long. He contests my shot. Martin and Nene are stronger and they try to body me more and Birdman’s just long and when I shoot he can still jump up there and contest the shot. So, yeah, they’ve got three very good defenders.
TNT analysts Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Chris Webber took this opportunity to blast Nowitzki. Webber suggested that Dirk was "soft" because,
I’ve never heard a scorer, I’ve never heard a true warrior, a dog, say 'this guy can check me.'[Dirk didn't say that]
Barkley dogpiled by adding,
One of the keys to being a great player is having so much confidence in yourself…for Dirk to say that guys can stop him, that’s just not cool.[He didn't say that, either]
Kenny then claimed,
It feeds the stereotype that this guy is playing a little soft.[No it doesn't..it just feeds the stereotype that Dirk can understand and speak English]
I love Kenny and Charles, but what the hell are they talking about? Seriously. Dirk was asked about each defender and what each does differently. He answered the question. He said that Birdman was long and challenged shots while Kenyon Martin and Nene were more physical.
He didn't say that they 'could stop him.'
He didn't say that he hated playing them.
He didn't say that he couldn't score against them.
He simply described their defensive styles.
I just don't get it. If Dirk had scored 10 points in each game and then said that Denver's defense was just 'too good to overcome,' I could understand the criticism. But Dirk isn't struggling. In actuality, he is dominating.
For the series, Dirk is shooting 54% (23 of 42), has averaged 31.5 points/game and has pulled down 19 rebounds. Last night, the day after "giving props" to Denver's defense, Dirk put a 35 spot on the Nuggets. If Dirk hadn't said anything, would he have scored 50?
Dirk is just a guy that can't win. Despite having better numbers in the playoffs than he does in the regular season, Dirk still deals with accusations that he can't produce in the clutch (I guess haters missed Game 7 in San Antonio during the Finals' run). Despite refining his game and driving to the rim (something that he was accused of being afraid to do early in his career), Dirk still doesn't get the calls that Wade, Kobe, Lebron and company get.
And despite constantly saying/doing the right things, he can't avoid criticism. It's just idiotic. Dirk gets less respect than any other NBA Superstar that I can remember. The guy has transformed into one of the greatest post-season scorers of all time, and instead of hearing, I don't know - about the fact that he is torching Denver in this series, we only hear that Dirk is "soft" and said something that Kobe would "never" say.
It's really sickening. Maybe on Saturday, when Dirk lights up the scoreboard for another 35 points, he will cheap-shot Kenyon Martin in the back of the head...you know, to gain some street-cred. Apparently, that's what it's all about.
Friday, May 1, 2009
DSK Podcast - Number One!
Guys,
My apologies once again for the slowdown in recent activity; however, I have completed the first DSK Podcast. We took some emails from a few readers and answered questions regarding Ron Washington, the Rangers and Alex Rodriguez.
Podcast #1
My apologies once again for the slowdown in recent activity; however, I have completed the first DSK Podcast. We took some emails from a few readers and answered questions regarding Ron Washington, the Rangers and Alex Rodriguez.
Podcast #1
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
NFL Draft Ramblings
Has technology ruined the NFL Draft?
Do you remember watching the NFL Draft with anticipation? If you were like me, you would be parked on the couch, with beer in hand, and watch as though you were related to the players involved. When the Cowboys’ pick drew near, and as the commissioner walked toward the podium, a thousand thoughts crossed your mind:
You were on the edge of your seat as the commissioner proclaimed, “With the 13th pick in the 200_ draft, the Dallas Cowboys select…” A wave of emotions accompanied the announcement – usually leading to the three W’s:
“What?...Who?...Why?”
For me, this entire process has changed – and I blame technology. ESPN has surrounded every player with cameras and microphones to provide fans with an “inside look” into the goings on at the draft. I don’t like it.
I don’t like seeing Mark Sanchez celebrating with his family and throwing a Jets cap on before the pick is announced. It is simply anticlimactic. There is no more anticipation. There is no more “shhhhing” your buddies as the commissioner begins to speak. Instead, fans see guys like Sanchez put a Jets hat on minutes before the pick is announced. It’s not good television. It’s not exciting. It’s a buzzkill.
ESPN has been so focused on finding new ways to provide a behind-the-scenes perspective that they have forgotten that fans enjoy the mystery of the draft. The former mystique of each team’s thought process created an energetic anticipation surrounding each pick. Fans enjoyed not knowing what was going to happen next.
Showing the result of the pick before the announcement is like seeing the secrets of a magic trick before the magician performs. It is like announcing the winner of American Idol before the contestants sing (did I just drop an American Idol reference into an NFL Draft piece? That’s either very cool…or very sad).
OK, my soapbox just crumbled – but you get my point. Behind-the-scenes at the draft sucks.
Draft Quickies
#1: Who attends the NFL Draft? Seriously…I need to know. Unless you are: 1) a player; 2) a family member of a player; 3) an agent…what are you doing at the draft? I mean, from what I can tell, there is nothing to do. You just sit in your seat, drink a beer or twelve and await the one moment that is actually relevant to your team.
I’m not saying that it’s boring – it’s just that if I had a choice between attending 8 hours of an NFL Draft and watching women’s bowling with my grandmother – it would be a tough decision. Spending eight hours of boredom awaiting a 10-second payoff is too reminiscent of college dating for my blood.
#2: After the Jets ingeniously moved up to take Mark Sanchez, the camera panned to a section of Jets’ fans shaking their head while yelling, “NO! STUPID PICK!”
Seriously? I understand: they were Jets’ fans, so that has to be taken into account. They had probably been drinking since 7 that morning, but protesting…vehemently protesting that pick? Really? I would think that, even a sloshed New Yorker would have trouble disagreeing with that move.
Do you remember watching the NFL Draft with anticipation? If you were like me, you would be parked on the couch, with beer in hand, and watch as though you were related to the players involved. When the Cowboys’ pick drew near, and as the commissioner walked toward the podium, a thousand thoughts crossed your mind:
Would they take the running back or go with the dominant outside linebacker?
Should they take advantage of the highly-rated cornerback falling into their lap or did his off-the-field problems scare them away?
Could they trade down and acquire additional picks for next year?
You were on the edge of your seat as the commissioner proclaimed, “With the 13th pick in the 200_ draft, the Dallas Cowboys select…” A wave of emotions accompanied the announcement – usually leading to the three W’s:
“What?...Who?...Why?”
For me, this entire process has changed – and I blame technology. ESPN has surrounded every player with cameras and microphones to provide fans with an “inside look” into the goings on at the draft. I don’t like it.
I don’t like seeing Mark Sanchez celebrating with his family and throwing a Jets cap on before the pick is announced. It is simply anticlimactic. There is no more anticipation. There is no more “shhhhing” your buddies as the commissioner begins to speak. Instead, fans see guys like Sanchez put a Jets hat on minutes before the pick is announced. It’s not good television. It’s not exciting. It’s a buzzkill.
ESPN has been so focused on finding new ways to provide a behind-the-scenes perspective that they have forgotten that fans enjoy the mystery of the draft. The former mystique of each team’s thought process created an energetic anticipation surrounding each pick. Fans enjoyed not knowing what was going to happen next.
Showing the result of the pick before the announcement is like seeing the secrets of a magic trick before the magician performs. It is like announcing the winner of American Idol before the contestants sing (did I just drop an American Idol reference into an NFL Draft piece? That’s either very cool…or very sad).
OK, my soapbox just crumbled – but you get my point. Behind-the-scenes at the draft sucks.
Draft Quickies
#1: Who attends the NFL Draft? Seriously…I need to know. Unless you are: 1) a player; 2) a family member of a player; 3) an agent…what are you doing at the draft? I mean, from what I can tell, there is nothing to do. You just sit in your seat, drink a beer or twelve and await the one moment that is actually relevant to your team.
I’m not saying that it’s boring – it’s just that if I had a choice between attending 8 hours of an NFL Draft and watching women’s bowling with my grandmother – it would be a tough decision. Spending eight hours of boredom awaiting a 10-second payoff is too reminiscent of college dating for my blood.
#2: After the Jets ingeniously moved up to take Mark Sanchez, the camera panned to a section of Jets’ fans shaking their head while yelling, “NO! STUPID PICK!”
Seriously? I understand: they were Jets’ fans, so that has to be taken into account. They had probably been drinking since 7 that morning, but protesting…vehemently protesting that pick? Really? I would think that, even a sloshed New Yorker would have trouble disagreeing with that move.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
I Take It All Back...
Well, not really - but today, Michael Young did what most thought that he should do: come through in the clutch.
For today, I revoke my thoughts expressed here.
For today, I revoke my thoughts expressed here.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Brandon McCarthy is Alive!
I was at the game yesterday and had an opportunity to watch BMac up close. He was obviously a little inconsistent, but don't we have to be pretty excited about what we saw?
Here are my observations from the game and things that might have slipped through the cracks:
* McCarthy's fastball started around the 88-89 mark...and progressively jumped up into the 92-93 range. It was opening day, so I would think that his velocity will continue to improve as the season continues.
* McCarthy struck out 7 in just 5 innings - when was the last time that a Ranger pitcher had the stuff to rack up Ks like that...especially without a dominating fastball?
* McCarthy's slurve was absolutely dominating at times. I can't remember any Indian that was able to do much with his offspeed stuff...and guys like Mark DeRosa looked absolutely helpless against it.
Yes, the walks were problematic and his fastball location was off at times, but I was ecstatic to see some of the "potential" that we have heard about actually put into action. If he stays healthy and his fastball velocity improves to the 93-95 mark, he could have a big year, IMO.
I don't know, I just thought that there would be more excitement around his start and the fact that he appears to have regained some of his dominating stuff. To me, it was a very encouraging start.
Here are my observations from the game and things that might have slipped through the cracks:
* McCarthy's fastball started around the 88-89 mark...and progressively jumped up into the 92-93 range. It was opening day, so I would think that his velocity will continue to improve as the season continues.
* McCarthy struck out 7 in just 5 innings - when was the last time that a Ranger pitcher had the stuff to rack up Ks like that...especially without a dominating fastball?
* McCarthy's slurve was absolutely dominating at times. I can't remember any Indian that was able to do much with his offspeed stuff...and guys like Mark DeRosa looked absolutely helpless against it.
Yes, the walks were problematic and his fastball location was off at times, but I was ecstatic to see some of the "potential" that we have heard about actually put into action. If he stays healthy and his fastball velocity improves to the 93-95 mark, he could have a big year, IMO.
I don't know, I just thought that there would be more excitement around his start and the fact that he appears to have regained some of his dominating stuff. To me, it was a very encouraging start.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Mavs Remain Resiliant
Dallas beat the Miami Heat yesterday, 98-96. Dirk stepped up, Kidd hit a key shot and Josh Howard - yes that Josh Howard - made a huge impact in the 4th quarter.
Howard was the story - playing only his second game in the last month - scored 18 and made several big plays down the stretch (including taking the game-winning charge with two seconds remaining).
But to me, the more important take away from last night lies within one number: 5.
By winning last night, the Mavericks improved to 17-4 in games decided by five points or less. That has to be significant, right?
Think about playoff basketball: aren't post-season series often decided in the last few minutes of each game? Isn't that what playoff basketball is all about?
I am not completely drunk on Maverick kool-aid, but I am excited to see that this team continues to play resilient basketball. Do they have giant letdowns about once each month? Sure. But for the most part - in big, meaningful games - this team plays hard:
And despite the negative connotation surrounding the prospect of fielding an "old" team, there is something to be said for experience. Jason Kidd appears to have no problem taking - and making - big shots in clutch-time. Dirk is a stud. Terry consistently hits big shots. This team simply presents some very difficult end-game matchup scenarios for their opponents.
The team isn't great - but they have piqued my interest. If they can avoid having a giant letdown in the playoffs, an opening-series showdown with Los Angeles could be interesting.
Howard was the story - playing only his second game in the last month - scored 18 and made several big plays down the stretch (including taking the game-winning charge with two seconds remaining).
But to me, the more important take away from last night lies within one number: 5.
By winning last night, the Mavericks improved to 17-4 in games decided by five points or less. That has to be significant, right?
Think about playoff basketball: aren't post-season series often decided in the last few minutes of each game? Isn't that what playoff basketball is all about?
I am not completely drunk on Maverick kool-aid, but I am excited to see that this team continues to play resilient basketball. Do they have giant letdowns about once each month? Sure. But for the most part - in big, meaningful games - this team plays hard:
And despite the negative connotation surrounding the prospect of fielding an "old" team, there is something to be said for experience. Jason Kidd appears to have no problem taking - and making - big shots in clutch-time. Dirk is a stud. Terry consistently hits big shots. This team simply presents some very difficult end-game matchup scenarios for their opponents.
The team isn't great - but they have piqued my interest. If they can avoid having a giant letdown in the playoffs, an opening-series showdown with Los Angeles could be interesting.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Great Injustice
This week on 105.3 The FAN, Ben and Skin will be discussing the "Top 5 Injustices" that have occurred within our lifetime. Well, it may not be that extensive, but the week will revolve around injustices that have taken place within the world of sports, pop culture, the media, etc...
In preparation, my "Fab 5" are as follows:
5. Paul Blart - Mall Cop
• Ranked as the #1, box-office movie for more than 2 weeks in a row
• Seriously – I don’t care if it was January in a “slow” movie time or not, Paul F’n Blart making $147+ million has convinced me that the apocalypse is near!
4. Nebraska playing in the BCS Championship in 2001…Nebraska:
• didn’t win its conference…
• was ranked 4th in the nation
• somehow jumped Colorado - a team that they were beaten by during the season – only to get destroyed by Miami
3. Paris Hilton
• Nothing specific – just the fact that we all know who she is
• Paris is famous…because she is famous? She has now joined forces with Paul Blart in nearly forcing me to take my own life
2. Arrested Development getting canceled while:
• My Name is Earl and Survivor continue to dull America with mundane ideas
1. Puck being kicked off Real World San Francisco
• Puck was probably the best reality character in the history of reality tv. The guy was funny, entertaining and simply had no filter. The peanut-butter scene will live in infamy. Yes, he was stupid, but this was before it was “cool” to be stupid. He was original.
1a. Larry the Cable Guy making $30+ million in 2008
• Seriously – the “Cable Guy” is a character – but his audience is too ignorant to realize it
• He tried legit stand-up as himself (Dan Whitney) – and it failed. Instead, he created a stupid, unoriginal simpleton character to appeal to idiocy...and it freakin worked!
• Larry the Cable Guy is making millions and guys like Bill Hicks were forced to be “cult icons,” because the “majority” can’t handle anything that actually has substance.
• "Get-R-Done" is Latin for "The End is Near."
In preparation, my "Fab 5" are as follows:
5. Paul Blart - Mall Cop
• Ranked as the #1, box-office movie for more than 2 weeks in a row
• Seriously – I don’t care if it was January in a “slow” movie time or not, Paul F’n Blart making $147+ million has convinced me that the apocalypse is near!
4. Nebraska playing in the BCS Championship in 2001…Nebraska:
• didn’t win its conference…
• was ranked 4th in the nation
• somehow jumped Colorado - a team that they were beaten by during the season – only to get destroyed by Miami
3. Paris Hilton
• Nothing specific – just the fact that we all know who she is
• Paris is famous…because she is famous? She has now joined forces with Paul Blart in nearly forcing me to take my own life
2. Arrested Development getting canceled while:
• My Name is Earl and Survivor continue to dull America with mundane ideas
1. Puck being kicked off Real World San Francisco
• Puck was probably the best reality character in the history of reality tv. The guy was funny, entertaining and simply had no filter. The peanut-butter scene will live in infamy. Yes, he was stupid, but this was before it was “cool” to be stupid. He was original.
1a. Larry the Cable Guy making $30+ million in 2008
• Seriously – the “Cable Guy” is a character – but his audience is too ignorant to realize it
• He tried legit stand-up as himself (Dan Whitney) – and it failed. Instead, he created a stupid, unoriginal simpleton character to appeal to idiocy...and it freakin worked!
• Larry the Cable Guy is making millions and guys like Bill Hicks were forced to be “cult icons,” because the “majority” can’t handle anything that actually has substance.
• "Get-R-Done" is Latin for "The End is Near."
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Just Hear Me Out
For the Texas Rangers, the Josh Hamilton contract-extension talks commenced this week. According to the Texas Rangers website, Hamilton was not on-board:
The Ranger blogging world has seen increased action regarding the quote. At Lonestar Ball, Newberg Report, Inside Corner and BBTIA, Rangers fans continue to voice their displeasure.
From what I can tell, most Ranger fans fall into three categories: 1) they think that a deal will get done before the season; 2)they think that a deal will get done during the season; 3)they believe that Hicks is simply too cheap to meet Hamilton's demands.
I have seen no one suggest what initially went through my head:
Yes - I realize that premise sounds ridiculous. Hamilton is a natural, one-of-a-kind talent that appears to enjoy being a Ranger. He has provided Texas with some amazingly positive media coverage and was probably the story of the 2008 baseball season.
But before setting me on fire, think about it: because of Hamilton's off-the-field problems, his career got a late start. He made a splash during his rookie season at the age of 26, as opposed to 22 or 23.
Hamilton is about to turn 28. He is locked up this year for $550,000 and is under Ranger control for three additional arbitration years (2010-2012). By the time he can declare for free-agency, Hamilton will be 32 years old. To spell it out:
He has played more than 100 games in a season once in his career (2008).
He has obviously had some serious off-the-field problems.
He will be approaching his mid-30's before he can become a free-agent.
This is difficult to write - because Hamilton is such an amazing talent - but re-signing Hamilton just seems like a risk that Texas doesn't need to take. What if concerns about Hamilton's durability are realized over the next two seasons? What if...off-the-field situations crop back up? What if, at age 32, Hamilton just can't move like he can now?
Also think about the Mark Teixeira situation. Teixeira produced 4.5 high-quality seasons for the Rangers during his tenure in Texas and was not re-signed.
In 2007 - when it became obvious that Teixeira was going to test the free-agent market - Jon Daniels traded him for an amazing haul of high-end prospects. The Rangers' current future largely depends on four prospects acquired in the Tex deal: Elvis Andrus, Matt Harrison, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Neftali Feliz. Could JD do the same thing with Hamilton?
I know that it's a reach - the Atlanta trade was probably a once-in-a-lifetime type deal. And I know that it could be a poor PR move. I just cannot overlook the importance of having a strong farm-system. In today's game, prospects are currency. The Angels' farm-system has provided them with the ability to consistently contend throughout this decade. The Dodgers farm-system will allow them to consistently contend throughout the next decade. The Rays will be a contender for the foreseeable future - because of their farm-system.
The Texas system is great right now - but will it be three years from now?
Something else to consider: Texas has never had any problems drafting/developing/signing high-end offensive producers. Since moving into Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, the Ranger offense has never been a problem. Look at the players that have been drafted/acquired just within the last three years: Hamilton, Davis, Smoak, Ramirez, Saltalamacchia, Cruz, Murphy...the list goes on and on. Finding high-caliber offensive players simply is not a problem for this franchise.
And what if Hamilton - after four really good years in Texas - can be flipped for a Teixeira-like haul? And if Hamilton continues to produce as he did in 2008 - there is a chance that he has more value than Teixeira.
Hamilton is great - but I think that it's at least worth a discussion.
"My agent and I were disappointed with their offer," Hamilton said.
The Ranger blogging world has seen increased action regarding the quote. At Lonestar Ball, Newberg Report, Inside Corner and BBTIA, Rangers fans continue to voice their displeasure.
From what I can tell, most Ranger fans fall into three categories: 1) they think that a deal will get done before the season; 2)they think that a deal will get done during the season; 3)they believe that Hicks is simply too cheap to meet Hamilton's demands.
I have seen no one suggest what initially went through my head:
Is extending Hamilton necessarily a good idea?
Yes - I realize that premise sounds ridiculous. Hamilton is a natural, one-of-a-kind talent that appears to enjoy being a Ranger. He has provided Texas with some amazingly positive media coverage and was probably the story of the 2008 baseball season.
But before setting me on fire, think about it: because of Hamilton's off-the-field problems, his career got a late start. He made a splash during his rookie season at the age of 26, as opposed to 22 or 23.
Hamilton is about to turn 28. He is locked up this year for $550,000 and is under Ranger control for three additional arbitration years (2010-2012). By the time he can declare for free-agency, Hamilton will be 32 years old. To spell it out:
He has played more than 100 games in a season once in his career (2008).
He has obviously had some serious off-the-field problems.
He will be approaching his mid-30's before he can become a free-agent.
This is difficult to write - because Hamilton is such an amazing talent - but re-signing Hamilton just seems like a risk that Texas doesn't need to take. What if concerns about Hamilton's durability are realized over the next two seasons? What if...off-the-field situations crop back up? What if, at age 32, Hamilton just can't move like he can now?
Also think about the Mark Teixeira situation. Teixeira produced 4.5 high-quality seasons for the Rangers during his tenure in Texas and was not re-signed.
In 2007 - when it became obvious that Teixeira was going to test the free-agent market - Jon Daniels traded him for an amazing haul of high-end prospects. The Rangers' current future largely depends on four prospects acquired in the Tex deal: Elvis Andrus, Matt Harrison, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Neftali Feliz. Could JD do the same thing with Hamilton?
I know that it's a reach - the Atlanta trade was probably a once-in-a-lifetime type deal. And I know that it could be a poor PR move. I just cannot overlook the importance of having a strong farm-system. In today's game, prospects are currency. The Angels' farm-system has provided them with the ability to consistently contend throughout this decade. The Dodgers farm-system will allow them to consistently contend throughout the next decade. The Rays will be a contender for the foreseeable future - because of their farm-system.
The Texas system is great right now - but will it be three years from now?
Something else to consider: Texas has never had any problems drafting/developing/signing high-end offensive producers. Since moving into Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, the Ranger offense has never been a problem. Look at the players that have been drafted/acquired just within the last three years: Hamilton, Davis, Smoak, Ramirez, Saltalamacchia, Cruz, Murphy...the list goes on and on. Finding high-caliber offensive players simply is not a problem for this franchise.
And what if Hamilton - after four really good years in Texas - can be flipped for a Teixeira-like haul? And if Hamilton continues to produce as he did in 2008 - there is a chance that he has more value than Teixeira.
Hamilton is great - but I think that it's at least worth a discussion.
Absolutely Disgusting
Ryan Moats, a Houston Texans' running back and former Bishop Lynch student, was involved in a police altercation last week. The Dallas Morning News reports that Moats, while taking his family to see a dying relative in a Plano hospital, rolled through a red light and was besieged by a police officer. Here is an excerpt from the story (full story here):
It gets even worse:
Even another officer's plea would not stop Powell:
And the most tragic finale:
Absolutely disgusting. What else can be said?
Moats turned on his hazard lights. He stopped at a red light, where, he said, the only nearby motorist signaled for him to go ahead. He went through.
[Officer] Powell, watching traffic from a hidden spot, flipped on his lights and sirens. In less than a minute, he caught up to the SUV and followed for about 20 more seconds as Moats found a parking spot outside the emergency room.
Moats' wife, 27-year-old Tamishia, was the first out. Powell yelled at her to get back in.
"Get in there!" he yelled. "Let me see your hands!"
"My mom is dying," she explained.
Powell was undeterred.
Tamishia Moats and her great-aunt ignored the officer and headed into the hospital. Ryan Moats stayed behind with the father of the dying woman.
It gets even worse:
Powell demanded his license and proof of insurance. Moats produced his license but said he didn't know where the insurance paperwork was.
"Just give me a ticket or whatever," he said, beginning to sound exasperated and a little argumentative.
"Shut your mouth," Powell told him. "You can cooperate and settle down, or I can just take you to jail for running a red light."
"All I'm asking you is just to hurry up." ...
"Understand what I can do," Powell concluded. "I can tow your truck. I can charge you with fleeing. I can make your night very difficult."
Even another officer's plea would not stop Powell:
"Hey, that's the nurse," the Plano officer told Powell. "She said that the mom's dying right now, and she's wanting to know if they can get him up there before she dies."
"All right," Powell replied. "I'm almost done."
As Moats signed the ticket, Powell continued his lecture.
"Attitude's everything," he said. "All you had to do is stop, tell me what was going on. More than likely, I would have let you go."
It had been about 13 minutes.
And the most tragic finale:
Moats and Collinsworth's father went into the hospital, where they found Collinsworth had died, with her daughter at her side.
Absolutely disgusting. What else can be said?
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Is Jim Reeves a Unicorn?
Jim Reeves wrote a column yesterday suggesting that Tom Hicks would slash the Ranger payroll after the 2009 season (you can read it here).
I'm sorry - but Reeves is bordering on insanity. Like Galloway, Reeves has transformed into nothing more than a shock-value mouthpiece.
Here is a specific excerpt from the story:
Here are several other Hicks' quotes that litter the story:
So, based on those quotes, Reeves ascertained that Hicks is committed to slashing payroll? Really? Some have suggested that Reeves is grasping at straws, but that might be giving Reeves too much credit. This is more like grasping at...unicorns or leprechauns...because they don't exist!
Nothing that Reeves quotes indicates that Hicks is intent on slashing payroll. On the other hand, several comments were made suggesting that Texas would not do so, like:
I know that newspapers are crumbling, but how does a piece like this get through the editing process? I have to imagine the editorial meeting sounded something like:
It may not be word for word, but it can't be far off. Grandpa urine - welcome Unicorn Revo to the asylum!
I'm sorry - but Reeves is bordering on insanity. Like Galloway, Reeves has transformed into nothing more than a shock-value mouthpiece.
Here is a specific excerpt from the story:
"If we have a chance to get a great Ben Sheets type player at the right price, we’d do it," Hicks said..."
The message Hicks is sending here is twofold.
One, it’s obvious that the Rangers won’t be adding any salary, or likely be in a position to even eat the $6 million they’d owe outfielder-DH Frank Catalanotto if they decided they wanted to cut him to make room for outfielder Andruw Jones on the roster.
Two is that Hicks, like the rest of us, has obviously been hit hard by the bottoming-out economy in many of his businesses and he’s looking to stabilize future expenses wherever he can.
Here are several other Hicks' quotes that litter the story:
"I like the energy of the young guys," Hicks said. "I like [Justin] Smoak. I like Max Ramirez. Next year, I think you’ll see Feliz and Holland in the rotation. It would be nice to see [Brandon] McCarthy step up this year."
"We’re in the mind-set that we’re going to be in the race this year and not in the mind-set of dumping salaries, because we feel like if we’re successful on the field, what we haven’t been able to accomplish this off-season in renewals we can make up with walk-up attendance if we’re in a pennant race," Ryan said.
So, based on those quotes, Reeves ascertained that Hicks is committed to slashing payroll? Really? Some have suggested that Reeves is grasping at straws, but that might be giving Reeves too much credit. This is more like grasping at...unicorns or leprechauns...because they don't exist!
Nothing that Reeves quotes indicates that Hicks is intent on slashing payroll. On the other hand, several comments were made suggesting that Texas would not do so, like:
"There’s no direction for [Ryan and Daniels] to cut payroll," Hicks insisted Monday.
I know that newspapers are crumbling, but how does a piece like this get through the editing process? I have to imagine the editorial meeting sounded something like:
Reeves: I've got a story about the Rangers slashing payroll.
Editor: Really? What support can you provide?
Reeves: Uh...well, Hicks did say that "there’s no direction to cut payroll," does that work?
Editor: Revo, you normally need two sources for a story.
Reeves: Nolan said that they "are not in the mindset of dumping salaries," will that do?
Editor: Hell yeah it will! I was just testing you - the story was printed an hour ago. You know that we don't "edit" around here!
It may not be word for word, but it can't be far off. Grandpa urine - welcome Unicorn Revo to the asylum!
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