So the stage is set. The Philadelphia Phillies and the Tampa Bay (Devil) Rays will face off for all the marbles in what will definitely be an interesting series. The interesting concern as of now will be just how low will the World Series go in terms of ratings? I personally don't care about ratings and find the industry's inability to avoid mentioning them humororus. But it does make me wonder...
If the Phillies and the Rays play in the World Series, but nobody sees it, does it actually happen?
Monday, October 20, 2008
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Joe Not-So-Cool...
One of the stories out of New York in the past two days as been Jon Heyman's interview Tuesday with Mike Francesa. Talking on the FAN, Heyman revealed that there seem to be deep problems within the Yankee clubhouse regarding manage Joe Girardi. Heyman stated that the "old guard" whom he listed as Jeter, Posada, Mariano, and Pettitte have a problem with Girardi's communication skills. He further states that Jeter and Mariano are "not enamored" with Girardi and that the issue has become a serious problem.
Much has been made about Girardi's relationship with the media and it's no surprise that communication has become a problem in the clubhouse as well. For a manager to be effective he needs to maintain open lines of communication with his players. Communicating his plans and recieving feedback is vital for a manager to be on the same page with his players. Numerous instances occurred this season where this seemed to be a problem, notably the sitting of Damon in Minnesota where Damon was not informed of the changes until arriving at the park. This lack of communication is unecessary and can be seen as insulting by the players.
Girardi's managerial problems all seem to stem from the fact that he sees the manager as some kind of all-knowing secret keeper. It sounds bizarre but so is his behavior. Blatently lying about injuries is pointless especially when 10 minutes prior your GM already released the information. Injuries don't remain secrets for long and lying about them gives the idea that there's an internal disconnect between you and your club. A lack of communication with players can be seen as a disrespectful approach to managing a clubhouse. Sure, the manager is the manager but these players are adults. Many of them are veterans and haved earn the right to at least be able to openly communicate with their manager. Shuffling the lineup every other day, trying to outsmart God every ninth inning, and the shallow "I believe in this team" when we were a loss away from being sent home doesn't help anyone.
All in all, Girardi has his high points as a manager. He did a decent job with the bullpen this year and the final record isn't necessarily something to be ashamed of. However, the communication issues, embarassing media stunts, and a ineffective approach to dealing with the clubhouse should worry Yankee fans. This is New York, things don't stay hidden for long and once a story is out its out. Girardi is on watch now and it remains to be seen if he can turn this team around.
Much has been made about Girardi's relationship with the media and it's no surprise that communication has become a problem in the clubhouse as well. For a manager to be effective he needs to maintain open lines of communication with his players. Communicating his plans and recieving feedback is vital for a manager to be on the same page with his players. Numerous instances occurred this season where this seemed to be a problem, notably the sitting of Damon in Minnesota where Damon was not informed of the changes until arriving at the park. This lack of communication is unecessary and can be seen as insulting by the players.
Girardi's managerial problems all seem to stem from the fact that he sees the manager as some kind of all-knowing secret keeper. It sounds bizarre but so is his behavior. Blatently lying about injuries is pointless especially when 10 minutes prior your GM already released the information. Injuries don't remain secrets for long and lying about them gives the idea that there's an internal disconnect between you and your club. A lack of communication with players can be seen as a disrespectful approach to managing a clubhouse. Sure, the manager is the manager but these players are adults. Many of them are veterans and haved earn the right to at least be able to openly communicate with their manager. Shuffling the lineup every other day, trying to outsmart God every ninth inning, and the shallow "I believe in this team" when we were a loss away from being sent home doesn't help anyone.
All in all, Girardi has his high points as a manager. He did a decent job with the bullpen this year and the final record isn't necessarily something to be ashamed of. However, the communication issues, embarassing media stunts, and a ineffective approach to dealing with the clubhouse should worry Yankee fans. This is New York, things don't stay hidden for long and once a story is out its out. Girardi is on watch now and it remains to be seen if he can turn this team around.
Waiting in the Wings: Dellin Betances
As the winter begins, there will be a lot of talk about the Yankees' plans for this offseason. Free agents, resignings, and of course, prospects will be discussed. I figured it would be worthwhile to explore some of the young guys the Yankees will be disscussing. These players could be either the future of the Yankees or valuable trade pieces to acquire other players. It's important to at least have a basic knowledge about some of the players waiting in the wings...
The Basics:
Name: Dellin Betances
Why You Should Know Him: He's a powerful RHP with an unlimited potential and a fastball that can push 98 mph
Why You Should Know Him: He's a powerful RHP with an unlimited potential and a fastball that can push 98 mph
The Basics:
Full Name: Dellin Betances
Born: March 23, 1988 Washinton Heights, NY
Height: 6-9 Weight: 215
RHP
Fun Facts:
- Comes from the same neighborhood as Manny Ramirez
- Drafted in the 8th round in 2006 out of high school
- Highest NYC high school draft pick since Manny Ramirez
- Started baseball as a shortstop
- Was a dual sport athlete, led high school basketball team to a division title his sophomore year
- Gave up basketball after he has 2 teeth knocked out in a game, began to focus on baseball
- Was an Aflac All-American and played for Team USA's Junior National Team
Prospect Rankings
2007 - Ranked #11 among Minor League pitchers by Scout.com
2007 - Ranked #27 overall by Scout.com
Some Minor League Statistics
Charleston: (1-2) 6 G, 25 IP, 10 ER, 0 HR, 17BB, 29 K, 3.60 ERA, 1.640 WHIP
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Los Angeles Dodgers v Philadelphia Phillies: NLCS Preview
Here's a guest post I did for my friend Justin's blog, 310 to Joba, http://310tojoba.blogspot.com
Set to arrive on Thursday is the NLCS matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies. After easily taking care of their respectful NL Central opponents in the NLDS, both teams will be well rested and seem to be on the top of their game. The season series between the two teams, which is wash at 4-4, suggests that the matchup is close and that, rightfully so, it will be decided by a few key factors.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Who to Watch:
Manny Ramirez: Man Ram, who has become a cult figure since joining the Dodgers, was practically bionic going 5 for 10 with 2 HR, 3 RBI, and 5 R in the NLDS vs. the Cubs. Even more astonishingly, he was seen running hard around the bases. When Manny’s on and he’s happy he can really produce. His presence in the lineup also helps players like Russell Martin (4 for 13, 3 2b, HR) see better pitches.
Rafael Furcal: Furcal, after being hurt in early May, has returned in a big way. The leadoff hitter and speedy shortstop went 4 for 12 in the NLDS and his presence has added more depth to the Dodger lineup. If he can keep it up in the NLCS, the Dodgers will have a decent lineup from top to bottom.
The Key to a Dodger Victory: Pitching
Dodger pitching is some of the best in the NL and they definitely have the leg up on the Phillies in that department. The staff was lights out against the Cubs allowing only 6 runs in 3 games. Derek Lowe, the game 1 starter, has playoff experience and pitched well in the NLDS. Following Lowe will be Chad Billingsley, one of the best young pitchers in the game, and Hiroki Kuroda. However, Wade and Broxton appeared in all 3 games for the Dodgers in the NLDS, something that won’t be possible in a longer NLCS series. Also lingering, is whether or not Hong-Chih Kuo will be available to pitch. If not, Torre will most likely have to go with just a 3 man rotation. Good starting pitching performances and distribution of outs from the bullpen will be a big factor.
Obligatory Storyline
Obviously the story with the Dodgers is the return of former Yankee manager Joe Torre to the playoffs while his former team hits the golf course. Paired with the fact that former Yankee-killer Manny Ramirez is also in the clubhouse, the Torre-Story will dominate this series as Joe hopes to add to his already record holding postseason wins total.
The Philadelphia Phillies
Who to Watch:
Cole Hamels: Hamels, the Phillies best pitcher, will start Game 1 for the Fightins’ opposite Derek Lowe. Hamels, who went 8 strong with 9 strikeouts in his performance in the NLDS against the Cubs, is a key to this series, especially if its extended. Hamels’ “out pitch” is his changeup and if he’s throwing it well the Dodgers are going to have a lot of trouble. It remained to be seen if Hamels can establish himself as a postseason pitcher.
Pat Burrell: Pat the Bat, the epitome of a love-hate relationship, is in his final year with the Phillies and is looking to erase some bad memories. A former first round pick, Burrell has frustrated Phillies fans with his perpetual lack of production and sometimes lazy and lethargic play. After going hitless in the first 3 games of the NLDS, Burrell broke out with 2 HR in the Phillies’ decisive Game 4 victory. Perhaps Pat the Bat can win over some more Phillies’ hearts with a big performance against the Dodgers.
The Key to a Phillies Victory: Hitting
The Phillies have been praised for having one of the most dangerous lineups in the league. Consisting of the bats of Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, and Pat Burrell, the lineup can be scary. However, the team seems to hit in noticeable streaks. During the season, there were periods where the bats went dead and against Milwaukee in the NLDS the Phillies hit 5 for 31 with RISP. The bats, absent for the first 3 games, came alive in the final game but raise doubts about whether the lumber will present or not for the NLCS. It is also interesting to note that for the past two postseasons (2008 and 2007) Ryan Howard and Chase Utley have been dismal. Howard has hit .217 with 1 HR and 2 RBI while Utley has struggled greatly hitting .154 with 2 RBI. It’s hard to see how this lineup will even hover near “dangerous” if those guys aren’t hitting.
Obligatory Storyline
Not much here except for the fact that a Philadelphia team is still in the hunt for a championship. The Phillies have immerged as a power in the NL and winning the pennant would cement that. Also, the subtle storyline about Phillies’ manager Charlie Manuel and his friendship with soon-to-be-free agent Manny Ramirez will surely be mentioned.
Prediction: Dodgers in 6
Set to arrive on Thursday is the NLCS matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies. After easily taking care of their respectful NL Central opponents in the NLDS, both teams will be well rested and seem to be on the top of their game. The season series between the two teams, which is wash at 4-4, suggests that the matchup is close and that, rightfully so, it will be decided by a few key factors.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Who to Watch:
Manny Ramirez: Man Ram, who has become a cult figure since joining the Dodgers, was practically bionic going 5 for 10 with 2 HR, 3 RBI, and 5 R in the NLDS vs. the Cubs. Even more astonishingly, he was seen running hard around the bases. When Manny’s on and he’s happy he can really produce. His presence in the lineup also helps players like Russell Martin (4 for 13, 3 2b, HR) see better pitches.
Rafael Furcal: Furcal, after being hurt in early May, has returned in a big way. The leadoff hitter and speedy shortstop went 4 for 12 in the NLDS and his presence has added more depth to the Dodger lineup. If he can keep it up in the NLCS, the Dodgers will have a decent lineup from top to bottom.
The Key to a Dodger Victory: Pitching
Dodger pitching is some of the best in the NL and they definitely have the leg up on the Phillies in that department. The staff was lights out against the Cubs allowing only 6 runs in 3 games. Derek Lowe, the game 1 starter, has playoff experience and pitched well in the NLDS. Following Lowe will be Chad Billingsley, one of the best young pitchers in the game, and Hiroki Kuroda. However, Wade and Broxton appeared in all 3 games for the Dodgers in the NLDS, something that won’t be possible in a longer NLCS series. Also lingering, is whether or not Hong-Chih Kuo will be available to pitch. If not, Torre will most likely have to go with just a 3 man rotation. Good starting pitching performances and distribution of outs from the bullpen will be a big factor.
Obligatory Storyline
Obviously the story with the Dodgers is the return of former Yankee manager Joe Torre to the playoffs while his former team hits the golf course. Paired with the fact that former Yankee-killer Manny Ramirez is also in the clubhouse, the Torre-Story will dominate this series as Joe hopes to add to his already record holding postseason wins total.
The Philadelphia Phillies
Who to Watch:
Cole Hamels: Hamels, the Phillies best pitcher, will start Game 1 for the Fightins’ opposite Derek Lowe. Hamels, who went 8 strong with 9 strikeouts in his performance in the NLDS against the Cubs, is a key to this series, especially if its extended. Hamels’ “out pitch” is his changeup and if he’s throwing it well the Dodgers are going to have a lot of trouble. It remained to be seen if Hamels can establish himself as a postseason pitcher.
Pat Burrell: Pat the Bat, the epitome of a love-hate relationship, is in his final year with the Phillies and is looking to erase some bad memories. A former first round pick, Burrell has frustrated Phillies fans with his perpetual lack of production and sometimes lazy and lethargic play. After going hitless in the first 3 games of the NLDS, Burrell broke out with 2 HR in the Phillies’ decisive Game 4 victory. Perhaps Pat the Bat can win over some more Phillies’ hearts with a big performance against the Dodgers.
The Key to a Phillies Victory: Hitting
The Phillies have been praised for having one of the most dangerous lineups in the league. Consisting of the bats of Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, and Pat Burrell, the lineup can be scary. However, the team seems to hit in noticeable streaks. During the season, there were periods where the bats went dead and against Milwaukee in the NLDS the Phillies hit 5 for 31 with RISP. The bats, absent for the first 3 games, came alive in the final game but raise doubts about whether the lumber will present or not for the NLCS. It is also interesting to note that for the past two postseasons (2008 and 2007) Ryan Howard and Chase Utley have been dismal. Howard has hit .217 with 1 HR and 2 RBI while Utley has struggled greatly hitting .154 with 2 RBI. It’s hard to see how this lineup will even hover near “dangerous” if those guys aren’t hitting.
Obligatory Storyline
Not much here except for the fact that a Philadelphia team is still in the hunt for a championship. The Phillies have immerged as a power in the NL and winning the pennant would cement that. Also, the subtle storyline about Phillies’ manager Charlie Manuel and his friendship with soon-to-be-free agent Manny Ramirez will surely be mentioned.
Prediction: Dodgers in 6
Monday, October 6, 2008
Under The Cap: Milwaukee Brewers
This offseason I will be having some die hard fans answer questions about their favorite team. Its a chance to learn about the experience of rooting for another team as well to hear stories that reflect something all fans share: a love of the game.
Team: Milwaukee Brewers
Division: National League Central
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home Ballpark: Miller Park
Nickname: The Brew Crew, Beermakers
Fan of the Day: Dave Hannes, author of Brewers Bar
Favorite Brewers Memory: Seeing Henry Aaron hit a home run off of Nolan Ryan
Something People don't know about Brewer fans: They still hate the Twins from the AL days
Most Hated Teams: Cubs, Cardinals, Twins, Astros
Feelings on the Sausage Race: I think the Polish Sausage should be referred to as Kielbasa
Favorite Miller Park Memory: June 25, 2005--seeing Rickie Weeks and Prince Fielder each getting their first major league home run
Favorite Miller Park Concession: A tie: Italian sausage or "dip" dog
Favorite Piece of Brewers Merchandise: The "barrel man" cap I got at the June 25, 2005 game
The Barrel Man was the first logo of the Brewers when they were in the American League.
Favorite Ball Park Chant: Roll out the barrel! (A Polka Song)
Do You Even Like Beer? Love it!!!
If You Played for the Brewers, what Position and what At-Bat Song: Third base, "Nice Guys Finish Last," by Green Day.
Thanks to Dave for the input. Check out Brewers Bar at http://mvn.com/mlb-brewers/
Waiting in the Wings: Austin Jackson
As the winter begins, there will be a lot of talk about the Yankees' plans for this offseason. Free agents, resignings, and of course, prospects will be discussed. I figured it would be worthwhile to explore some of the young guys the Yankees will be disscussing. These players could be either the future of the Yankees or valuable trade pieces to acquire other players. It's important to at least have a basic knowledge about some of the players waiting in the wings...
Name: Austin Jackson
Why You Should Know Him: He may be the future centerfielder of the Yankees
The Basics:
Full Name: Austin J. Jackson
Born: February 1,1987 Denton, TX
Height: 6-1 Weight: 185 Bats: Right Throws: Right
Full Name: Austin J. Jackson
Born: February 1,1987 Denton, TX
Height: 6-1 Weight: 185 Bats: Right Throws: Right
Fun Facts:
- Was a two sport athlete, turned down a basketball scholarship to Georgia Tech
- A Yankee Scout called him a "can't miss kid" when he was only 12 years old
- Baseball America named him the best baseball player in his age group that same year
- At 15 he started for the USA Baseball's Youth National Team
- Has "extraordinary hand-eye coordination, sprinter's speed, phenomenal fast-twitch muscles and an advanced understanding of the game."
- Former coaches say Austin has never shown a temper or an attitude. His parents never complained or demanded that Austin ever play a specific position or bat in a specific spot.
- A down to earth and hardworking kid.
- On his high school basketball team, Austin had to be told to shoot more. His coach said Austin never wanted to seem like a ballhog.
Prospect Rankings:
2006 - 5th ranked organizational prospect for New York Yankees
2008 - 41st ranked Major League prospect
2008 - 2nd ranked organizational prospect for New York Yankees
Some Notable Minor League Totals:
- Games: 432
- At Bats: 1696
- Average: .284
- SLG: .410
- OBP: .355
- Runs: 283
- Hits: 481
- SB: 98
Some Worthwhile Literature:
http://apse.dallasnews.com/contest/2002/writing/over250/over250.enterprise.fifth4.html
http://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/J/austin-jackson.shtml
Friday, October 3, 2008
It's kinda like not being picked in Dodgeball...
So, the postseason has begun and for the first time since I was 5 it is Yankee-less. This is a new feeling for me and for a lot of Yankee fans. October had become synonomous with meaningful playoff games and watching the Yankees push for a title year after year. This October however I get to experience a new activity...watching. Yes, watching the postseason without the Yankees playing is weird but actually quite interesting. Whenever the Yankees get knocked out I usually swear off baseball for that remaining week. I hate watching other teams do well when we were so close. But this year is different. Without a horse in the race I can just sit back and enjoy some great baseball and even get interested in some of the little storylines that emerge. Here's my take on the action from where we currently stand right in the midst of the division series...
National League: The Little League that could...
As the National league tries yet again to prove that it doesnt exist solely to pump out the team that gets to lose to the American League, we actually have some great storylines and some great games happening so far...
Los Angeles Dodgers v Chicago Cubs
The Dodgers are my pseudo-horse this postseason. I love Joe Torre and there are some guys on the Dodgers (Russell Martin) who I really enjoy watching. Larry Bowa and Don Mattingly put the Dodgers over the top on my "Who will we root for" poll. Plus, what bitter my-team-is-out-of-it fan doesn't want the winner of the worst division with the worst record upsetting everyone else? They've started off surprisingly great against the favored Cubs and take a 2-0 series lead back home to LA. The pitching has been fantastic for LA and everyone in the lineup is getting involved (7 different players with RBI's) The Cubs on the other hand seem to be stalling. Their pitching has been dismal with their ace Zambrano having a tough outing last night. They haven't been scoring runs and their play in the field makes them look like the Bad News Bears. With all the hype and publicity surrounding the 100th anniversary of their last World Series win you'd think they would show a little more pop...
Philadelphia Phillies v Milwaukee Brewers
Now I have a soft spot for the Phillies because I interned with them this past spring. They are a great historical franchise with a fanbase that lives and dies by the team. Plus, they embarassed the Mets this season for the second straight year. Despite their awful performance in last year's postseason, th Phillies have come out swinging. Backed by strong pitching and timely hitting, the Fightins' have shoved the Brew Crew into a 0-2 hole heading out to Milwaukee. As of now, I think someone forgot to tell the Brewers that they made the playoffs. Sabathia cooled off last night and the bats just weren't there for Milwaukee. Hopefully going back home will give the Brewers a little extra juice but let's remember only one team has won a Division Series after having been down 2-0...(ahem, the 2001 Yankees)
American League: Something seems to be missing...oh yeah
Boston Red Sox of Boston v Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Right now the Red Sox lead the Angels 1-0 in the series. I am still trying to think of a scenario where both teams lose. I'll get back to you.
Tampa Bay Rays v Chicago White Sox
Well clocks in Tampa Bay never struck at midnight and the Rays continue to play great baseball heading into October. Behind two homeruns from rookie Evan Longoria, the Rays beat the White Sox to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Many thought the Rays would snap because of their lack of playoff experience but it hasn't happened yet. The White Sox are just hoping the Cubs stay in the race so people know baseball is still on.
Anyway, baseball is on and its interesting. The National League especially is showcasing some banner franchises and the games have been exciting. The teams have history and huge fanbases riding on these games and the atmosphere is exciting. In the American League most of the time has been spent powerwashing Yankee logos off preordered postseason equipment...but the games are great also. Pick your team and run with it.
National League: The Little League that could...
As the National league tries yet again to prove that it doesnt exist solely to pump out the team that gets to lose to the American League, we actually have some great storylines and some great games happening so far...
Los Angeles Dodgers v Chicago Cubs
The Dodgers are my pseudo-horse this postseason. I love Joe Torre and there are some guys on the Dodgers (Russell Martin) who I really enjoy watching. Larry Bowa and Don Mattingly put the Dodgers over the top on my "Who will we root for" poll. Plus, what bitter my-team-is-out-of-it fan doesn't want the winner of the worst division with the worst record upsetting everyone else? They've started off surprisingly great against the favored Cubs and take a 2-0 series lead back home to LA. The pitching has been fantastic for LA and everyone in the lineup is getting involved (7 different players with RBI's) The Cubs on the other hand seem to be stalling. Their pitching has been dismal with their ace Zambrano having a tough outing last night. They haven't been scoring runs and their play in the field makes them look like the Bad News Bears. With all the hype and publicity surrounding the 100th anniversary of their last World Series win you'd think they would show a little more pop...
Philadelphia Phillies v Milwaukee Brewers
Now I have a soft spot for the Phillies because I interned with them this past spring. They are a great historical franchise with a fanbase that lives and dies by the team. Plus, they embarassed the Mets this season for the second straight year. Despite their awful performance in last year's postseason, th Phillies have come out swinging. Backed by strong pitching and timely hitting, the Fightins' have shoved the Brew Crew into a 0-2 hole heading out to Milwaukee. As of now, I think someone forgot to tell the Brewers that they made the playoffs. Sabathia cooled off last night and the bats just weren't there for Milwaukee. Hopefully going back home will give the Brewers a little extra juice but let's remember only one team has won a Division Series after having been down 2-0...(ahem, the 2001 Yankees)
American League: Something seems to be missing...oh yeah
Boston Red Sox of Boston v Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Right now the Red Sox lead the Angels 1-0 in the series. I am still trying to think of a scenario where both teams lose. I'll get back to you.
Tampa Bay Rays v Chicago White Sox
Well clocks in Tampa Bay never struck at midnight and the Rays continue to play great baseball heading into October. Behind two homeruns from rookie Evan Longoria, the Rays beat the White Sox to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Many thought the Rays would snap because of their lack of playoff experience but it hasn't happened yet. The White Sox are just hoping the Cubs stay in the race so people know baseball is still on.
Anyway, baseball is on and its interesting. The National League especially is showcasing some banner franchises and the games have been exciting. The teams have history and huge fanbases riding on these games and the atmosphere is exciting. In the American League most of the time has been spent powerwashing Yankee logos off preordered postseason equipment...but the games are great also. Pick your team and run with it.
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