The Philadelphia Phillies clinched the NLDS against the Milwaukee Brewers this afternoon with a 6-2 victory in Game 4.
Pat Burrell hit two home runs in the game including a three run shot in the top of the 3rd. Jimmy Rollins and Jayson Werth also hit solo shots. Joe Blanton pitched six solid innings only surrendering a solo home run to Prince Fielder. Ryan Madson pitched the 7th and 8th while Brad Lidge got the final three outs in a non-save situation.
I thought the Phillies would sweep Milwaukee. They won three games to one. Close enough.
Dennis Eckersley wasn't sure why the Brewers sent C.C. Sabathia to pinch hit in the 4th inning. Probably because Sabathia will not be in a Brewers uniform in 2009 or for that matter Ben Sheets. Will Dale Sveum be invited to manage in 2009 after taking over with 12 games left in the season or will they look elsewhere?
So the Phillies will face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS beginning Thursday night in Philadelphia. This is the fourth time the two teams faced in the NLCS. They faced each other in 1977 and 1978 with the Dodgers winning on both occasions before losing to the New York Yankees in the World Series each time. They last met in 1983. This time the Phillies won before losing to the Baltimore Orioles in the World Series.
This is the NLCS I thought would transpire and I think it will be a good one. Although I would prefer the Phillies win it I believe the Dodgers will take it in seven games.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
NY Post: Biden before and after plastic surgery
The NY Post (obviously reading the IC blog) has done their own story on Biden's bad plastic surgery job, interviewing a plastic surgeon who agrees that Biden has had some work done. They've posted a picture of Biden before the surgery, below. Note the wrinkles on his forehead even though his face is virtually expressionless, and his normal sized roundish eyes. Contrast it with the after pictures I posted of his face during the VP debate.
My Thoughts on An American Carol
This morning I went to see An American Carol. Oddly enough it was at the same theater where I saw Fahrenheit 9/11 four years ago.
I actually missed the first few minutes of the film so I can't give a complete assessment. But I saw a sufficient amount to provide some observations.
There were only six people in a theater that could hold 250. Well, it was a Sunday morning. This is also Boston.
The storyline is fairly straightforward. Leslie Nielsen tells a group of young children a story about a documentary filmmaker named Michael Malone (who bears a strange resemblance to Michael Moore) who hates America and wants to abolish the Fourth of July. During the course of the film, Malone (played by Kevin Farley - brother of the late Chris Farley) is visited by several spirits in a Dickensian like manner - General George S. Patton (played by Kelsey Grammer), George Washington (played memorably by Jon Voight) and The Angel of Freaking Death (played by country music star Trace Adkins). You can see other Hollywood conservatives in this film including Kevin Sorbo, Dennis Hopper and Robert Davi. There are also cameos from Bill O'Reilly and Paris Hilton. Talk about odd couples.
Created by David Zucker of Airplane and The Naked Gun series, An American Carol has the element of all those films although not quite as funny as those comedic groundbreakers. Don't get me wrong. It makes the Left look plenty silly with such items as MoveAlong.org for instance. I liked Nielsen's line about college student demonstrators as, "People who don't know anything and shout it out loud." The funniest scene involved the Christian suicide bombers inspired by Rosie O'Donnell's line, "Radical Christianity is just as dangerous as Radical Islam."
When I first heard about this film my first thought was, "Why wasn't this film made in 2004 or 2005 at the height of Michael Moore's success?" I still feel that way. Although to be fair, this are references to Moore's declining influence. Entertainment Tonight anchor Mary Hart features Malone in a "Where Are They Now?" segment. Malone is also derisively referred to as a documentary filmmaker as opposed to a feature filmmaker.
An American Carol is good for a chuckle and a couple of moments of poignancy. Hopefully, there will be other feature films made from a conservative point of view be they comedies or otherwise. There is certainly a receptive audience for it.
I actually missed the first few minutes of the film so I can't give a complete assessment. But I saw a sufficient amount to provide some observations.
There were only six people in a theater that could hold 250. Well, it was a Sunday morning. This is also Boston.
The storyline is fairly straightforward. Leslie Nielsen tells a group of young children a story about a documentary filmmaker named Michael Malone (who bears a strange resemblance to Michael Moore) who hates America and wants to abolish the Fourth of July. During the course of the film, Malone (played by Kevin Farley - brother of the late Chris Farley) is visited by several spirits in a Dickensian like manner - General George S. Patton (played by Kelsey Grammer), George Washington (played memorably by Jon Voight) and The Angel of Freaking Death (played by country music star Trace Adkins). You can see other Hollywood conservatives in this film including Kevin Sorbo, Dennis Hopper and Robert Davi. There are also cameos from Bill O'Reilly and Paris Hilton. Talk about odd couples.
Created by David Zucker of Airplane and The Naked Gun series, An American Carol has the element of all those films although not quite as funny as those comedic groundbreakers. Don't get me wrong. It makes the Left look plenty silly with such items as MoveAlong.org for instance. I liked Nielsen's line about college student demonstrators as, "People who don't know anything and shout it out loud." The funniest scene involved the Christian suicide bombers inspired by Rosie O'Donnell's line, "Radical Christianity is just as dangerous as Radical Islam."
When I first heard about this film my first thought was, "Why wasn't this film made in 2004 or 2005 at the height of Michael Moore's success?" I still feel that way. Although to be fair, this are references to Moore's declining influence. Entertainment Tonight anchor Mary Hart features Malone in a "Where Are They Now?" segment. Malone is also derisively referred to as a documentary filmmaker as opposed to a feature filmmaker.
An American Carol is good for a chuckle and a couple of moments of poignancy. Hopefully, there will be other feature films made from a conservative point of view be they comedies or otherwise. There is certainly a receptive audience for it.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
My Suggestion For a Sarah Palin SNL Skit That Would Never Air
In between innings of the Cubs-Dodgers game, I caught the opening skit of SNL and sure enough Tina Fey reprised her role as the GOP V-P nominee doing a spoof of Thursday's V-P debate with Joe Biden with Queen Latifah playing Gwen Ifill.
Despite Palin's strong showing in the debate, Fey and SNL insist on portraying Palin as a vacuous dimwit. The skit was written from a point of view of Upper West Side liberals who deem anyone outside the Boston-New York beltway as a moron. For her part Fey stated backstage at the Emmys, "I want to be done playing this lady November 5th. So if anyone could help me be done playing this lady November 5, that would be good for me."
Well, isn't that special? I guess we know who Ms. Fey will be voting for on November 4th.
I think that America should elect McCain-Palin for no other reason than to make Tina Fey's life a living hell.
It's a shame she views Palin with such derision because she can do a lot with Palin, the facets of her personality and the situations in which she could find herself. Even if Fey doesn't like Palin 's politics she obviously resonates with enough people where she could do a skit that draws on Palin's strengths which include her affect on the male species. Which brings me to my idea for an Sarah Palin SNL Skit that would never air.
Much is said about Sarah Palin's lack of foreign policy experience. But it is also worth noting the world leaders she met during the opening of the UN General Assembly last month were charmed by her especially Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari.
So I could imagine a scene with Palin as VP meets with several world leaders past and present such as Zardari, Putin, French President Sarkozy and for good measure we could thrown in some of our own like Henry Kissinger and Bill Clinton. They are all so taken in by her charms that they start fighting over her through song. Zardari could sing "Sarah" by Starship while Sarkozy could sing "Thank Heaven For Little Girls" much to the dismay of Carla Bruni. Clinton and Kissinger would sing a duet, "Just The Two Of Us" while Putin, unable to sing, would play the theme of "From Russia With Love."
Of course, Palin would reject all her suitors for "my guy Todd" and then war would break out to which Palin would reply, "Oh, doggone it. You guys are being silly." Whereupon hearing that the men would meekly comply and cease fighting.
Yes, I know such a skit would never hit live air before November 4th.
But maybe it would if Palin gets elected.
America let's work together to make sure Tina Fey plays Palin for many, many years to come.
Despite Palin's strong showing in the debate, Fey and SNL insist on portraying Palin as a vacuous dimwit. The skit was written from a point of view of Upper West Side liberals who deem anyone outside the Boston-New York beltway as a moron. For her part Fey stated backstage at the Emmys, "I want to be done playing this lady November 5th. So if anyone could help me be done playing this lady November 5, that would be good for me."
Well, isn't that special? I guess we know who Ms. Fey will be voting for on November 4th.
I think that America should elect McCain-Palin for no other reason than to make Tina Fey's life a living hell.
It's a shame she views Palin with such derision because she can do a lot with Palin, the facets of her personality and the situations in which she could find herself. Even if Fey doesn't like Palin 's politics she obviously resonates with enough people where she could do a skit that draws on Palin's strengths which include her affect on the male species. Which brings me to my idea for an Sarah Palin SNL Skit that would never air.
Much is said about Sarah Palin's lack of foreign policy experience. But it is also worth noting the world leaders she met during the opening of the UN General Assembly last month were charmed by her especially Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari.
So I could imagine a scene with Palin as VP meets with several world leaders past and present such as Zardari, Putin, French President Sarkozy and for good measure we could thrown in some of our own like Henry Kissinger and Bill Clinton. They are all so taken in by her charms that they start fighting over her through song. Zardari could sing "Sarah" by Starship while Sarkozy could sing "Thank Heaven For Little Girls" much to the dismay of Carla Bruni. Clinton and Kissinger would sing a duet, "Just The Two Of Us" while Putin, unable to sing, would play the theme of "From Russia With Love."
Of course, Palin would reject all her suitors for "my guy Todd" and then war would break out to which Palin would reply, "Oh, doggone it. You guys are being silly." Whereupon hearing that the men would meekly comply and cease fighting.
Yes, I know such a skit would never hit live air before November 4th.
But maybe it would if Palin gets elected.
America let's work together to make sure Tina Fey plays Palin for many, many years to come.
Dodgers Sweep Cubs in NLDS
When the Chicago Cubs begin spring training in Mesa, Arizona next February they will begin their second century of futility.
The Cubs were denied a chance to win their first World Series in 100 years tonight when the Dodgers beat them 3-1 at Dodger Stadium to sweep them in three games. It is the second year in a row the Cubs have been swept in the NLDS. The Cubs were vanquished by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2007 NLDS.
If you read my post-season predictions I thought the Cubs would take the Dodgers to a fifth game. But the Dodgers dominated from Wrigley to Chavez Ravine. In Game 1, Cubs starter Ryan Dempster walked seven batters and surrendered a grand slam to James Loney. Dodgers won 7-2. In Game 2, the Cubs committed four errors and were absolutely humiliated 10-3. Tonight, the Dodgers had great pitching from Hiroki Kuroda, Cory Wade and Jonathan Broxton.
The Cubs might have had the best record in the NL in 2008. But they are still the Cubs. Lovable losers.
The Dodgers could know who they are facing in the NLCS as soon as tomorrow afternoon should the Phillies beat Milwaukee in Game 4 of the NLDS. Currently, the Phillies have a 2-1 lead in the playoff. They could have swept this afternoon but the Brewers won 4-1 in their first home playoff game since the Reagan Administration. If the Brewers win tomorrow that will force a Game 5 in Philadelphia on Tuesday. The Phillies would have the unenviable task of facing C.C. Sabathia. Sure, the Phillies knocked out Sabathia in the 4th inning in Game 1 but they can't count on that twice. But if Game 5 comes to pass the Phillies will counter with their ace Cole Hamels. Either way I think the Dodgers are going to the World Series.
The Cubs were denied a chance to win their first World Series in 100 years tonight when the Dodgers beat them 3-1 at Dodger Stadium to sweep them in three games. It is the second year in a row the Cubs have been swept in the NLDS. The Cubs were vanquished by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2007 NLDS.
If you read my post-season predictions I thought the Cubs would take the Dodgers to a fifth game. But the Dodgers dominated from Wrigley to Chavez Ravine. In Game 1, Cubs starter Ryan Dempster walked seven batters and surrendered a grand slam to James Loney. Dodgers won 7-2. In Game 2, the Cubs committed four errors and were absolutely humiliated 10-3. Tonight, the Dodgers had great pitching from Hiroki Kuroda, Cory Wade and Jonathan Broxton.
The Cubs might have had the best record in the NL in 2008. But they are still the Cubs. Lovable losers.
The Dodgers could know who they are facing in the NLCS as soon as tomorrow afternoon should the Phillies beat Milwaukee in Game 4 of the NLDS. Currently, the Phillies have a 2-1 lead in the playoff. They could have swept this afternoon but the Brewers won 4-1 in their first home playoff game since the Reagan Administration. If the Brewers win tomorrow that will force a Game 5 in Philadelphia on Tuesday. The Phillies would have the unenviable task of facing C.C. Sabathia. Sure, the Phillies knocked out Sabathia in the 4th inning in Game 1 but they can't count on that twice. But if Game 5 comes to pass the Phillies will counter with their ace Cole Hamels. Either way I think the Dodgers are going to the World Series.
Palin Starts To Take The Ayers Out Of Obama's Campaign
While campaigning today in Colorado, Sarah Palin took aim at Barack Obama's association with William Ayers, a founding member of the Weather Underground.
"Our opponent, though, is someone who sees America, it seems, as being so imperfect - important enough that he's palling around with terrorists who target their own country," said Palin.
Of course, this matter has been around for quite some time. Some like National Review contributor Stanley Kurtz have written extensively about Obama's association with Ayers. But this is the most explicit the McCain campaign has been about Ayers until now. You can be sure the Obama Campaign, if not Obama himself, will say Palin's statements are desperate and a product of the so-called Republican Attack Machine. Besides Obama will insist he has condemned Ayers' acts and that he can't be held accountable for something that happened when he was a lad of eight.
But what if McCain or Palin were associated with someone who advocated the overthrow of the U.S. government, had set bombs and expressed no regret for doing so? Obama would be on that like black on coal. True, Obama's association with Ayers doesn't go as deep as with Reverend Wright but Ayers helped him launch his political career and didn't object to his assistance. Or are we not to judge Obama by the company he keeps?
"Our opponent, though, is someone who sees America, it seems, as being so imperfect - important enough that he's palling around with terrorists who target their own country," said Palin.
Of course, this matter has been around for quite some time. Some like National Review contributor Stanley Kurtz have written extensively about Obama's association with Ayers. But this is the most explicit the McCain campaign has been about Ayers until now. You can be sure the Obama Campaign, if not Obama himself, will say Palin's statements are desperate and a product of the so-called Republican Attack Machine. Besides Obama will insist he has condemned Ayers' acts and that he can't be held accountable for something that happened when he was a lad of eight.
But what if McCain or Palin were associated with someone who advocated the overthrow of the U.S. government, had set bombs and expressed no regret for doing so? Obama would be on that like black on coal. True, Obama's association with Ayers doesn't go as deep as with Reverend Wright but Ayers helped him launch his political career and didn't object to his assistance. Or are we not to judge Obama by the company he keeps?
Friday, October 3, 2008
Biden better candidate for awfulplasticsurgery.com than VP
I had a hard time focusing on the substance of the VP debate last night because I couldn't stop starting at Biden's botched plastic surgery. His eyes were slanted up on the sides, clearly from a facelift, pulled so tightly his eyes were rather slitty, his right eye in particular. His forehead was completely smooth, even when he laughed, wrinkling up his cheeks, his forehead didn't move. Check out awfulplasticsurgery.com for an amusing expose of celebrities with bad plastic surgery that will enlighten you on how to recognize such.
Here he is having difficulty keeping his right eye open very far
His forehead doesn't have a single wrinkle, even though he is laughing really hard. Most people older than 30 have visible laugh lines on their forehead when they laugh.
Another shot of his eyes slanting up on the sides
Note the eyes slanting up on the sides, and the slightly narrower right eye
Here he is having difficulty keeping his right eye open very far
His forehead doesn't have a single wrinkle, even though he is laughing really hard. Most people older than 30 have visible laugh lines on their forehead when they laugh.
Another shot of his eyes slanting up on the sides
Houses Passes Bailout II
The House of Representatives just passed the second bailout package less than 48 hours after it was passed in the Senate. President Bush is expected to sign the package before the end of the day. Of course, the first bailout package was rejected earlier in the week causing stocks to plummet on Wall Street.
I am sure there is much in this new bill to which we can object. But in the absence of credible alternatives and a far greater danger in not passing some sort of package this will have to do for now. One can only hope this will help alleviate the anxiety that has resolved around our economy. If it does boost consumer confidence it gives people less of a reason to vote for Obama in a vote that takes place one month from tomorrow.
I am sure there is much in this new bill to which we can object. But in the absence of credible alternatives and a far greater danger in not passing some sort of package this will have to do for now. One can only hope this will help alleviate the anxiety that has resolved around our economy. If it does boost consumer confidence it gives people less of a reason to vote for Obama in a vote that takes place one month from tomorrow.
Palin Winked; I Blinked
A lot of talk about Sarah Palin and her winking.
I have to admit that I did not see it. I must have blinked.
Or I was probably pacing in my living room and into the kitchen. I do that sometimes. Although I had the TV on sometimes I concentrate more on listening to what is said than actually viewing what is right in front of me. While one might be more in tune with the substance of their message or the cadence of their voice you inevitably miss things and I missed her winking.
The lesson here is that one must keep both one's ears and eyes open.
Or as Sarah Palin so wisely put it, "You can't blink."
I have to admit that I did not see it. I must have blinked.
Or I was probably pacing in my living room and into the kitchen. I do that sometimes. Although I had the TV on sometimes I concentrate more on listening to what is said than actually viewing what is right in front of me. While one might be more in tune with the substance of their message or the cadence of their voice you inevitably miss things and I missed her winking.
The lesson here is that one must keep both one's ears and eyes open.
Or as Sarah Palin so wisely put it, "You can't blink."
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Palin-Biden
When I watched the debate I thought Biden set the tone and controlled the tenor of the debate. Sarah Palin did not fall on her face and break her glasses and I did not expect her too. But I thought Biden had a better command of the issues. I don't agree with him on the issues and thought Palin should have challenged him more where it concerned his characterization of McCain's positions especially Iran and drilling. I was also struck that Biden didn't put his foot in his mouth or appear in any way condescending to Palin. Gwen Ifill also performed reasonably well and avoided showing her pro-Obama biases.
Of course, last week I thought McCain was the clear winner in the debate. But the polls said Obama won the debate and he has been climbing in the polls. With this mind, the folks on FOX seem very happy with Palin as is Frank Luntz's focus group.
Yesterday, I submitted an article on IC on Palin which has appeared elsewhere. I argue that Sarah Palin is of the people. She's your mother, daughter, granddaughter, sister and sister's friend. She can be found in our diners, hardware stores and union shop floors. She's smart and ambitious but knows that doesn't make her better than you. So when the American people see her they want to see her succeed. With this litmus test in mind, Sarah Palin set out to do what she intended to do - a) sell John McCain and b) demonstrated a great knowledge of energy issues and a growing knowledge of others and perhaps most importantly c) speak to America as a flesh and blood human being.
Even if Palin's performance boosts McCain's numbers will a critical mass of Americans who are concerned about the economy be prepared to vote for a Republican ticket even if it has two mavericks? McCain and Palin need to ask Obama and Biden how we will pay for his expensive promises he knows he can't keep. There might still be a month but time is running low.
Of course, last week I thought McCain was the clear winner in the debate. But the polls said Obama won the debate and he has been climbing in the polls. With this mind, the folks on FOX seem very happy with Palin as is Frank Luntz's focus group.
Yesterday, I submitted an article on IC on Palin which has appeared elsewhere. I argue that Sarah Palin is of the people. She's your mother, daughter, granddaughter, sister and sister's friend. She can be found in our diners, hardware stores and union shop floors. She's smart and ambitious but knows that doesn't make her better than you. So when the American people see her they want to see her succeed. With this litmus test in mind, Sarah Palin set out to do what she intended to do - a) sell John McCain and b) demonstrated a great knowledge of energy issues and a growing knowledge of others and perhaps most importantly c) speak to America as a flesh and blood human being.
Even if Palin's performance boosts McCain's numbers will a critical mass of Americans who are concerned about the economy be prepared to vote for a Republican ticket even if it has two mavericks? McCain and Palin need to ask Obama and Biden how we will pay for his expensive promises he knows he can't keep. There might still be a month but time is running low.
Canadians More Likely To Watch Palin-Biden Debate Than Own Election Debate
Canadians are wacky people and as one myself I say this with the greatest of affection. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation scheduled Canada's five party leaders (Conservative, Liberal, NDP, Bloc Quebecois and the Green Party) to have their English language debate the same night as the duel between Sarah Palin and Joe Biden. What could they have been thinking?
Despite Canadian content rules, we maple syrup lovers get most of our TV from south of the 49th even if many Canucks don't have nice things to say about Americans. This means Sarah Palin who in the eyes of many makes Britney, Paris and Lindsay look boring. Palin is must see TV and that means there will probably be more Canadians tuned in to Palin versus Biden/Ifill than the CBC debate. Canadian politics is far from dull but many Canadians don't get very excited about our politics. When compared to American politics and specifically this Presidential election it is especially true.
Perhaps if Palin were to make a Wayne Gretzky or Sidney Crosby reference. Mario Lemieux would be fine as well. However, she should steer clear of any discussion concerning the Toronto Maple Leafs-Montreal Canadiens rivalry lest she start a civil war between English and French Canadians. But an elaboration of her hockey mom experience would be worthwhile to those Canadians who otherwise cannot participate in an American election but wish they could.
Despite Canadian content rules, we maple syrup lovers get most of our TV from south of the 49th even if many Canucks don't have nice things to say about Americans. This means Sarah Palin who in the eyes of many makes Britney, Paris and Lindsay look boring. Palin is must see TV and that means there will probably be more Canadians tuned in to Palin versus Biden/Ifill than the CBC debate. Canadian politics is far from dull but many Canadians don't get very excited about our politics. When compared to American politics and specifically this Presidential election it is especially true.
Perhaps if Palin were to make a Wayne Gretzky or Sidney Crosby reference. Mario Lemieux would be fine as well. However, she should steer clear of any discussion concerning the Toronto Maple Leafs-Montreal Canadiens rivalry lest she start a civil war between English and French Canadians. But an elaboration of her hockey mom experience would be worthwhile to those Canadians who otherwise cannot participate in an American election but wish they could.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
The Ifill Tower
Much is being made of V-P debate moderator Gwen Ifill's conflict of interest. For those that don't know by now she has written a pro-Obama book that is going to be released on January 20, 2009 the day of the Presidential inauguration. Thus she has a vested interest in the outcome of the election hence calling her impartiality into question.
The McCain Campaign states it was unaware that Ifill was writing such a book. I say they should keep her as a moderator for two reasons.
First, if Ifill and Biden are seen to be ganging up on Palin it will win Palin sympathy and the Democrats and the liberal media will be heaped with scorn. Not by the Democrats and the liberal media but by everyday Americans.
Second, my roommate is voting Obama. But when he heard that Ifill would be moderating the VP debate at the end of the McCain-Obama debate on Friday he cringed. If Ifill gets a negative reaction from Obama voters then she has a big, big problem.
If Ifill continues to be the story and takes the focus off Palin then I think Ifill will step aside and Jim Lehrer will be called upon to pinch hit at the last minute. That would put him into a terrible position but at least Lehrer knows how to moderate a debate.
The McCain Campaign states it was unaware that Ifill was writing such a book. I say they should keep her as a moderator for two reasons.
First, if Ifill and Biden are seen to be ganging up on Palin it will win Palin sympathy and the Democrats and the liberal media will be heaped with scorn. Not by the Democrats and the liberal media but by everyday Americans.
Second, my roommate is voting Obama. But when he heard that Ifill would be moderating the VP debate at the end of the McCain-Obama debate on Friday he cringed. If Ifill gets a negative reaction from Obama voters then she has a big, big problem.
If Ifill continues to be the story and takes the focus off Palin then I think Ifill will step aside and Jim Lehrer will be called upon to pinch hit at the last minute. That would put him into a terrible position but at least Lehrer knows how to moderate a debate.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
My 2008 MLB Postseason Predictions
As promised here are my 2008 MLB postseason predictions.
Let's begin with the American League.
ALDS - Boston Red Sox vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
The Sox have swept the Angels in the ALDS in 2004 and 2007. But this is a much better Angels team who are healthy and ready to play. The Sox on the other hand are banged up especially J.D. Drew and Mike Lowell. But the greatest concern lies with Josh Beckett who was originally slated to start in Game 1 has been pushed back to Game 3 because of a strained oblique muscle. There's no guarantee he'll answer the bell. There is not a lot of optimism in Red Sox Nation. Angels sweep 3-0.
ALDS - Chicago White Sox vs. Tampa Bay Rays
The Chisox can hit the hell out of the ball but the Rays can hit the ball, pitch and catch it. If the Rays can shut down the Chisox power game this will be a quick series. Rays sweep 3-0.
ALCS - Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Both of these are fundamentally sound. Rays manager Joe Maddon worked in the Angels organization for 31 years as a coach before taking the helm of the Rays in 2006. So Maddon knows how Angels manager Mike Scioscia thinks. But Scioscia also knows how Maddon thinks. This will be a great chess match between two strategic thinkers. The Angels in 7.
So now let's look at the National League.
NLDS - Milwaukee Brewers vs. Philadelphia Phillies
The Brewers are an offensive powerhouse with the likes of Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun. But the Phillies have Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins plus Jayson Werth and Shane Victorino. Not only are the Phillies as powerful as the Brewers but their pitching and defense is much better. Outside of C.C. Sabathia, the Brew Crew doesn't have much pitching. Sure there's Ben Sheets but he's been hurting and Sabathia can only pitch on three days rest for so long. Another sweep. Phillies in three.
NLDS - Chicago Cubs vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Cubs haven't won the World Series in 100 years. They haven't played a World Series since the end of World War II (that's 1945 folks.) And I don't think they will in 2008. Manny Ramirez has turned the Dodgers into a feared force. But even if Cubs pitching shuts down Manny I believe Andre Ethier will rise to the occasion. There's one other former Red Sox I see making an impact for the Dodgers - Derek Lowe. He is starting Game 1 for the Dodgers and has a habit of pitching playoff clinchers. Don't get me wrong the Cubs won't roll over. In fact, they'll fight tooth and nail. All the more reason Cubs fans will have their hearts broken yet again. Dodgers in five.
NLCS - Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Manny Ramirez changes everything. Even if he isn't hitting there's still the possibility he can. Yes, Brad Lidge has been perfect in save situations. But I see Manny being to Lidge what Albert Pujols was to him back in 2005. Dodgers in 7.
2008 World Series - Los Angeles Angels vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
Yes, I see an all Los Angeles World Series. Yeah, Manny hit a walk off HR off K-Rod in the 2007 ALDS. But that was then. This is now. K-Rod has long forgotten that encounter. Angels in six.
Let's begin with the American League.
ALDS - Boston Red Sox vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
The Sox have swept the Angels in the ALDS in 2004 and 2007. But this is a much better Angels team who are healthy and ready to play. The Sox on the other hand are banged up especially J.D. Drew and Mike Lowell. But the greatest concern lies with Josh Beckett who was originally slated to start in Game 1 has been pushed back to Game 3 because of a strained oblique muscle. There's no guarantee he'll answer the bell. There is not a lot of optimism in Red Sox Nation. Angels sweep 3-0.
ALDS - Chicago White Sox vs. Tampa Bay Rays
The Chisox can hit the hell out of the ball but the Rays can hit the ball, pitch and catch it. If the Rays can shut down the Chisox power game this will be a quick series. Rays sweep 3-0.
ALCS - Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Both of these are fundamentally sound. Rays manager Joe Maddon worked in the Angels organization for 31 years as a coach before taking the helm of the Rays in 2006. So Maddon knows how Angels manager Mike Scioscia thinks. But Scioscia also knows how Maddon thinks. This will be a great chess match between two strategic thinkers. The Angels in 7.
So now let's look at the National League.
NLDS - Milwaukee Brewers vs. Philadelphia Phillies
The Brewers are an offensive powerhouse with the likes of Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun. But the Phillies have Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins plus Jayson Werth and Shane Victorino. Not only are the Phillies as powerful as the Brewers but their pitching and defense is much better. Outside of C.C. Sabathia, the Brew Crew doesn't have much pitching. Sure there's Ben Sheets but he's been hurting and Sabathia can only pitch on three days rest for so long. Another sweep. Phillies in three.
NLDS - Chicago Cubs vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Cubs haven't won the World Series in 100 years. They haven't played a World Series since the end of World War II (that's 1945 folks.) And I don't think they will in 2008. Manny Ramirez has turned the Dodgers into a feared force. But even if Cubs pitching shuts down Manny I believe Andre Ethier will rise to the occasion. There's one other former Red Sox I see making an impact for the Dodgers - Derek Lowe. He is starting Game 1 for the Dodgers and has a habit of pitching playoff clinchers. Don't get me wrong the Cubs won't roll over. In fact, they'll fight tooth and nail. All the more reason Cubs fans will have their hearts broken yet again. Dodgers in five.
NLCS - Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Manny Ramirez changes everything. Even if he isn't hitting there's still the possibility he can. Yes, Brad Lidge has been perfect in save situations. But I see Manny being to Lidge what Albert Pujols was to him back in 2005. Dodgers in 7.
2008 World Series - Los Angeles Angels vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
Yes, I see an all Los Angeles World Series. Yeah, Manny hit a walk off HR off K-Rod in the 2007 ALDS. But that was then. This is now. K-Rod has long forgotten that encounter. Angels in six.
Chisox Win AL Central
The Chicago White Sox have won the AL Central Division with a 1-0 victory over the Minnesota Twins in front of the hometown fans.
Jon Danks and Bobby Jenks combined on a two-hit shutout. The closest the Twins came to scoring was in the top of the 5th when Ken Griffey, Jr threw out the slow footed Michael Cuddyer at home plate.
Both Cal Ripken, Jr and my Dad predicted Jim Thome would hit a homerun independently of one another. They were both right. Thome's dinger was the only run Twins starter Nick Blackburn surrendered. Blackburn pitched just as brilliantly as Danks but made one more mistake than Danks and it made all the difference.
The Chisox are only three years removed from winning the World Series. But they struggled in 2007 with a 72-90 record. So this was a turnaround season for them.
The Twins have nothing to be ashamed of. They lost three of their starting pitchers and their top centerfielder but yet came within a heartbeat of the postseason.
So now there's the tantalizing possibility of an all Chicago World Series. It would be the first since 1906 when the "hitless wonders" White Sox upset the Cubs that won a major league record 116 games in the regular season (the 2001 Seattle Mariners tied that mark). Unlike the 1906 Sox, the 2008 edition led the AL in homeruns. Interestingly, the Chisox carried on without Carlos Quentin who was leading the AL in homeruns when he broke his wrist earlier this month. But the Chisox have plenty of sluggers in Thome, Jermaine Dye, Paul Konerko, Nick Swisher as well as rookie Alexei Ramirez.
Then there's also Ken Griffey, Jr. I didn't think much of the trade to bring him over from the Reds at the trade deadline. He's well past his prime and I thought General Manager Kenny Williams was doing it for sentimental reasons. On the other hand, he still has flashes of his former glory as he did tonight. He is also a positive presence in the clubhouse. It's also hard to begrudge someone who was contributed as much to baseball as Griffey, Jr a chance to play in his first World Series. At the very minimum this is the first time The Kid will play October baseball since 1997.
Jon Danks and Bobby Jenks combined on a two-hit shutout. The closest the Twins came to scoring was in the top of the 5th when Ken Griffey, Jr threw out the slow footed Michael Cuddyer at home plate.
Both Cal Ripken, Jr and my Dad predicted Jim Thome would hit a homerun independently of one another. They were both right. Thome's dinger was the only run Twins starter Nick Blackburn surrendered. Blackburn pitched just as brilliantly as Danks but made one more mistake than Danks and it made all the difference.
The Chisox are only three years removed from winning the World Series. But they struggled in 2007 with a 72-90 record. So this was a turnaround season for them.
The Twins have nothing to be ashamed of. They lost three of their starting pitchers and their top centerfielder but yet came within a heartbeat of the postseason.
So now there's the tantalizing possibility of an all Chicago World Series. It would be the first since 1906 when the "hitless wonders" White Sox upset the Cubs that won a major league record 116 games in the regular season (the 2001 Seattle Mariners tied that mark). Unlike the 1906 Sox, the 2008 edition led the AL in homeruns. Interestingly, the Chisox carried on without Carlos Quentin who was leading the AL in homeruns when he broke his wrist earlier this month. But the Chisox have plenty of sluggers in Thome, Jermaine Dye, Paul Konerko, Nick Swisher as well as rookie Alexei Ramirez.
Then there's also Ken Griffey, Jr. I didn't think much of the trade to bring him over from the Reds at the trade deadline. He's well past his prime and I thought General Manager Kenny Williams was doing it for sentimental reasons. On the other hand, he still has flashes of his former glory as he did tonight. He is also a positive presence in the clubhouse. It's also hard to begrudge someone who was contributed as much to baseball as Griffey, Jr a chance to play in his first World Series. At the very minimum this is the first time The Kid will play October baseball since 1997.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Happy 5769
OK, so the stock market went into the toilet today and lots of people lost a ton of money. Meanwhile, Congress fiddles as Rome burns.
But most of us have our health and are surrounded by loved ones. OK, you might have the good fortune of knowing at least one person who tolerates your eccentricities. But we have come through another year and are still inhaling and exhaling.
Even in the worst of times there is still beauty to be found in music, streams and a myriad of little momentary things that make our lives worth living.
With that I wish you, Jewish or not, a Happy Rosh Hashanah.
But most of us have our health and are surrounded by loved ones. OK, you might have the good fortune of knowing at least one person who tolerates your eccentricities. But we have come through another year and are still inhaling and exhaling.
Even in the worst of times there is still beauty to be found in music, streams and a myriad of little momentary things that make our lives worth living.
With that I wish you, Jewish or not, a Happy Rosh Hashanah.
David Foster Wallace on Suicide
A reader came across my latest article, "Thoughts on Suicide" which focused on the recent suicide of author David Foster Wallace, who wrote extensively about John McCain. This reader enclosed a passage on suicide from Wallace's Infinite Jest:
The so-called "psychotically depressed" person who tries to kill herself doesn't do so out of "hopelessness" or any abstract conviction that life's assets and debits do not square. And surely not because death seems suddenly appealing. The person in whom Its invisible agony reaches a certain unendurable level will kill herself the same way a trapped person will eventually jump from a window of a burning high rise. Make no mistake about people who leap from burning windows. Their terror of falling down from a great height is still as great as it would be for you or me standing speculatively at the same window just checking out the view; i.e. the fear of falling remains a constant. The variable here is the other terror, the fire's flames; when the flames get close enough, falling to death becomes the slightly less terrible of two terrors. It's not desiring the fall; it's terror of the flames. And yet nobody down on the sidewalk, looking up and yelling, "Don't" and "Hang on!", can understand the jump. Not really. You'd have to have personally been trapped and felt flames to really understand a terror way beyond falling.
Now Wallace ended his life by hanging rather than jumping. I don't want to be glib in thinking this but if Wallace felt the flames whatever they might have been he must have thought no one could help him put them out.
The so-called "psychotically depressed" person who tries to kill herself doesn't do so out of "hopelessness" or any abstract conviction that life's assets and debits do not square. And surely not because death seems suddenly appealing. The person in whom Its invisible agony reaches a certain unendurable level will kill herself the same way a trapped person will eventually jump from a window of a burning high rise. Make no mistake about people who leap from burning windows. Their terror of falling down from a great height is still as great as it would be for you or me standing speculatively at the same window just checking out the view; i.e. the fear of falling remains a constant. The variable here is the other terror, the fire's flames; when the flames get close enough, falling to death becomes the slightly less terrible of two terrors. It's not desiring the fall; it's terror of the flames. And yet nobody down on the sidewalk, looking up and yelling, "Don't" and "Hang on!", can understand the jump. Not really. You'd have to have personally been trapped and felt flames to really understand a terror way beyond falling.
Now Wallace ended his life by hanging rather than jumping. I don't want to be glib in thinking this but if Wallace felt the flames whatever they might have been he must have thought no one could help him put them out.
Twins & White Sox Face Off For AL Central
The Chicago White Sox live to fight another day. The Chisox and Tigers were tied into the 6th inning when White Sox shortstop Alexei Ramirez hit a grand slam home run. White Sox win 8-2.
This forces a one game playoff for the AL Central tomorrow night in Chicago against the Minnesota Twins. The winner flies to St. Peters to face the Tampa Bay Rays. Even though the Twins are on the road I am picking them to win. But if nothing else it's one more night of baseball because it will be a long off season.
This forces a one game playoff for the AL Central tomorrow night in Chicago against the Minnesota Twins. The winner flies to St. Peters to face the Tampa Bay Rays. Even though the Twins are on the road I am picking them to win. But if nothing else it's one more night of baseball because it will be a long off season.
House Rejects $700 Billion Bailout Package
The House of Representatives has rejected the proposed $700 billion bailout package.
I agree that there were many things wrong with the legislation. Any such bailout, regardless of the price tag, encourages the private sector to invest recklessly and take imprudent risks. It would reward bad behavior. The borrow a phrase from my NDP days it is "corporate welfare."
On the other hand, the stock market is plunging 700 points as we speak. I'm afraid this will precipitate a widespread panic which could lead our economy into its darkest hours since the 1930s.
Something has to be done. Whatever it is something about it will be flawed whether in its substance or process. It won't please everyone. It might not even be a particularly good idea. But it might be better than all the other bad ideas out there.
I agree that there were many things wrong with the legislation. Any such bailout, regardless of the price tag, encourages the private sector to invest recklessly and take imprudent risks. It would reward bad behavior. The borrow a phrase from my NDP days it is "corporate welfare."
On the other hand, the stock market is plunging 700 points as we speak. I'm afraid this will precipitate a widespread panic which could lead our economy into its darkest hours since the 1930s.
Something has to be done. Whatever it is something about it will be flawed whether in its substance or process. It won't please everyone. It might not even be a particularly good idea. But it might be better than all the other bad ideas out there.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Could There Be a Venezuelan Missile Crisis?
Venezuelan strongman Hugo Chavez has announced he is accepting assistance from Russia to develop nuclear technology. Oh terrific.
Like Iran, Venezuela is an oil rich nation. Why do they need nuclear technology unless they plan to threaten the U.S. with it or sell it to an entity who would do harm on American soil?
Venezuela and Russia are becoming downright chummy. Chavez was in Russia last week and last month the Russians sent a naval squadron to Venezuela in response to American aid for Georgia. They are expected to conduct joint exercises before the end of 2008. This cannot be good.
This has all the makings of another Cuban Missile Crisis. Of course, if Obama is elected President he'll want to talk with Chavez and try to deal with the Devil. Methinks Obama will not be a Profile in Courage, blink first and allow Venezuela to go nuclear.
Or we could do the right thing, elect John McCain and put an end to this nonsense.
Like Iran, Venezuela is an oil rich nation. Why do they need nuclear technology unless they plan to threaten the U.S. with it or sell it to an entity who would do harm on American soil?
Venezuela and Russia are becoming downright chummy. Chavez was in Russia last week and last month the Russians sent a naval squadron to Venezuela in response to American aid for Georgia. They are expected to conduct joint exercises before the end of 2008. This cannot be good.
This has all the makings of another Cuban Missile Crisis. Of course, if Obama is elected President he'll want to talk with Chavez and try to deal with the Devil. Methinks Obama will not be a Profile in Courage, blink first and allow Venezuela to go nuclear.
Or we could do the right thing, elect John McCain and put an end to this nonsense.
Ebert Gives McCain a Thumbs Down
Roger Ebert has written an article in The Chicago Sun-Times lambasting John McCain for not looking Barack Obama in the eye at the Presidential Debate on Friday night. (http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/opps/bc.dlll/article?AID=/20080928/COMMENTARY/809289997)
That's right. For not looking at him in the eye. Here's how the article begins:
I do not like you, John McCain. My feeling has nothing to do with issues. It has to do with common courtesy. During the debate, you refused to look at Barack Obama in the eye. Indeed, you refused to look at him at all. Even when the two of you shook hands at the start, you used your eyes only to locate his hand, and then gazed past him as you shook it.
To quote tennis legend John McEnroe, "You cannot be serious."
As I was reading Ebert's lead paragraph I was thinking about Obama's repeated references to Senator McCain as "John." Well, Ebert writes, "Obama looked at you. He addressed you as 'John,' which as a fellow Senator is his privilege." I seem to recall McCain referring to Obama as Senator. Was this not sufficiently respectful? Somehow I don't think Ebert would have entitled McCain to such a "privilege" had he referred to the Illinois Junior Senator as Barack. He would have been the first to chide McCain for being condescending to The One.
Ebert concludes the article by reminding his wife not to invite McCain to dinner. Of course, this assumes he would have ever considered being in the company of McCain much less extending such an invitation to such a distinguished American. Ebert has descended the depths of disingenuousness.
In 2005, Ebert eviscerated fellow film critic Michael Medved after Medved revealed the plot of Million Dollar Baby. Ebert wrote that Medved was "a political commentator and no longer a film critic." In his article on McCain, Ebert writes, "Obama is my guy. If you are rude to him, you are rude to me." Suffice it to say, Roger Ebert is a political commentator and no longer a film critic.
That's right. For not looking at him in the eye. Here's how the article begins:
I do not like you, John McCain. My feeling has nothing to do with issues. It has to do with common courtesy. During the debate, you refused to look at Barack Obama in the eye. Indeed, you refused to look at him at all. Even when the two of you shook hands at the start, you used your eyes only to locate his hand, and then gazed past him as you shook it.
To quote tennis legend John McEnroe, "You cannot be serious."
As I was reading Ebert's lead paragraph I was thinking about Obama's repeated references to Senator McCain as "John." Well, Ebert writes, "Obama looked at you. He addressed you as 'John,' which as a fellow Senator is his privilege." I seem to recall McCain referring to Obama as Senator. Was this not sufficiently respectful? Somehow I don't think Ebert would have entitled McCain to such a "privilege" had he referred to the Illinois Junior Senator as Barack. He would have been the first to chide McCain for being condescending to The One.
Ebert concludes the article by reminding his wife not to invite McCain to dinner. Of course, this assumes he would have ever considered being in the company of McCain much less extending such an invitation to such a distinguished American. Ebert has descended the depths of disingenuousness.
In 2005, Ebert eviscerated fellow film critic Michael Medved after Medved revealed the plot of Million Dollar Baby. Ebert wrote that Medved was "a political commentator and no longer a film critic." In his article on McCain, Ebert writes, "Obama is my guy. If you are rude to him, you are rude to me." Suffice it to say, Roger Ebert is a political commentator and no longer a film critic.
AL Central Still Up In The Air
Both the Minnesota Twins and Chicago White Sox won their games on the last day of the season. The Twins have a half game lead but that isn't sufficient to give them the AL Central Division Title.
It's been quite a week. The Twins swept the Chisox at home this week to take over the lead in the AL Central. But then the Twins suffered a let down and lost two games to the Kansas City Royals before winning today. The Chisox have struggled down the stretch losing 9 of their last 12 games but still live to play another day.
Tomorrow afternoon, the Chisox host the Detroit Tigers to make up a game that was rained out earlier in the season. The Tigers were widely expected to make the post-season in 2008 but ended up being the most disappointing team in MLB finishing in the cellar of the AL Central. They have been reduced to a spoiler role. If the White Sox lose to the Tigers then the Twins win their fifth AL Central Title since 2002. But if the White Sox win then they will face off against the Twins in a one game playoff on Tuesday night.
If it comes to that I think the Twins will take it.
The winner of the AL Central will travel to St. Petersburg to face the Tampa Bay Rays in the ALDS.
It's been quite a week. The Twins swept the Chisox at home this week to take over the lead in the AL Central. But then the Twins suffered a let down and lost two games to the Kansas City Royals before winning today. The Chisox have struggled down the stretch losing 9 of their last 12 games but still live to play another day.
Tomorrow afternoon, the Chisox host the Detroit Tigers to make up a game that was rained out earlier in the season. The Tigers were widely expected to make the post-season in 2008 but ended up being the most disappointing team in MLB finishing in the cellar of the AL Central. They have been reduced to a spoiler role. If the White Sox lose to the Tigers then the Twins win their fifth AL Central Title since 2002. But if the White Sox win then they will face off against the Twins in a one game playoff on Tuesday night.
If it comes to that I think the Twins will take it.
The winner of the AL Central will travel to St. Petersburg to face the Tampa Bay Rays in the ALDS.
Brewers Win NL Wild Card; Mets Say Goodbye to Shea
For the first time since 1982, the Milwaukee Brewers will play baseball in October. I didn't think much of the move at the time but C.C. Sabathia turned around the fortunes of this club when they acquired him from Cleveland in July. Pitching on three days rest, Sabathia tossed a complete game against the Chicago Cubs for a 3-1 victory. The Brewers were down 1-0 into the 7th inning but the Brew Crew tied it on a bases loaded walk by Craig Counsell. "The Hebrew Hammer" Ryan Braun nailed down the Wild Card with a two run homerun in the bottom of the 8th. Of course, it was barely two weeks ago when the Brewers fired Ned Yost and replaced him with Dale Sveum. The Brewers went 7-5 under Sveum. Not earth shattering but it would be good enough.
Fans and players alike didn't move an inch in Miller Park awaiting the outcome of the New York Mets-Florida Marlins game. The game was scoreless into the 6th when the Marlins scored two runs. The Mets tied it in the bottom of the inning on a two run homerun by Carlos Beltran. But the the much maligned Mets bullpen loomed large once again. In the top of the 8th, Wes Helms hit a pinch hit homerun off Scott Schoeneweis to give the Marlins a 3-2 lead. Mets manager Jerry Manuel took out Schoeneweis and put in Luis Ayala. Dan Uggla went deep off Ayala to give the Marlins a 4-2 lead.
The Mets did have some opportunities. Marlins reliever Kevin Gregg had retired the first two hitters in the 8th when Jose Reyes hit a ground rule double. It actually worked against the Mets because had it not bounced over the fence Reyes could have had an inside the park homerun. But then Gregg walked Beltran which meant Carlos Delgado came to bat as the go ahead run. Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez took out Gregg and put in veteran lefty reliever Arthur Rhodes who has given Delgado fits throughout his career. Delgado hit a long fly ball to left but Josh Willingham caught it to end the inning.
In the bottom of the 9th with two outs, Marlins closer Matt Lindstrom walked pinch hitter Damion Easley to bring the tying run to the plate. The Mets were not going out Easley. This brought up Ryan Church. Could Church deliver a miracle for the Mets this Sunday? He put a drive into the ball but it landed peacefully in the glove of Curtis Maybin. Marlins won 4-2 and for the second season in a row the Mets were denied a spot in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Brewers and their fans toasted with Old Milwaukee.
The Mets also said goodbye to Shea Stadium. In 2009, they move across the street into Citi Field. Needless to say, Shea Stadium went out with far less fanfare than Yankee Stadium. But Shea has had its moments since opening in 1964. The Beatles played there in 1965, the Jets won Super Bowl III there in 1968 and the Mets won two World Series titles in 1969 and 1986. Throw in some other concerts and wrestling matches Shea had a good run. I was there last year and its not much to write home about. I'm sure Citi Field will be an improvement.
The question is though whether the Mets will be better in 2009. They collapsed in 2007 with a 7 game lead with two weeks left in the season. Willie Randolph was fired mid-season and replaced by Jerry Manuel. The Mets played much better under him but it wasn't good enough. They had a three and a half game lead with two weeks to go this season. If nothing else, the Mets need to revamp their bullpen. They obviously will pursue Los Angeles Angels closer Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez who becomes a free agent at season's end as Billy Wagner is unable to pitch in 2009. But even if they sign "K-Rod" they need shore up their middle relief because Schoeneweis, Feliciano, Sanchez, Heillman and company couldn't do the job once Wagner got hurt. This is why Manuel let Johan Santana pitch complete games in his last two starts for fear the bullpen wouldn't hold his lead.
The Mets have a lot of talent with Santana anchoring the starting rotation, a power trio of Beltran, Delgado and David Wright and role players like Easley, Fernando Tatis and Endy Chavez who made a couple of brilliant plays in left field today. But the Mets are expected to win and somehow I doubt they will stand pat this off season.
Meanwhile, the Brewers travel to Philadelphia to face the Phillies in the NLDS. The Cubs will host the Los Angeles Dodgers in the other NLDS. Both games begin on Wednesday. I'll post my predictions in a couple of days.
Fans and players alike didn't move an inch in Miller Park awaiting the outcome of the New York Mets-Florida Marlins game. The game was scoreless into the 6th when the Marlins scored two runs. The Mets tied it in the bottom of the inning on a two run homerun by Carlos Beltran. But the the much maligned Mets bullpen loomed large once again. In the top of the 8th, Wes Helms hit a pinch hit homerun off Scott Schoeneweis to give the Marlins a 3-2 lead. Mets manager Jerry Manuel took out Schoeneweis and put in Luis Ayala. Dan Uggla went deep off Ayala to give the Marlins a 4-2 lead.
The Mets did have some opportunities. Marlins reliever Kevin Gregg had retired the first two hitters in the 8th when Jose Reyes hit a ground rule double. It actually worked against the Mets because had it not bounced over the fence Reyes could have had an inside the park homerun. But then Gregg walked Beltran which meant Carlos Delgado came to bat as the go ahead run. Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez took out Gregg and put in veteran lefty reliever Arthur Rhodes who has given Delgado fits throughout his career. Delgado hit a long fly ball to left but Josh Willingham caught it to end the inning.
In the bottom of the 9th with two outs, Marlins closer Matt Lindstrom walked pinch hitter Damion Easley to bring the tying run to the plate. The Mets were not going out Easley. This brought up Ryan Church. Could Church deliver a miracle for the Mets this Sunday? He put a drive into the ball but it landed peacefully in the glove of Curtis Maybin. Marlins won 4-2 and for the second season in a row the Mets were denied a spot in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Brewers and their fans toasted with Old Milwaukee.
The Mets also said goodbye to Shea Stadium. In 2009, they move across the street into Citi Field. Needless to say, Shea Stadium went out with far less fanfare than Yankee Stadium. But Shea has had its moments since opening in 1964. The Beatles played there in 1965, the Jets won Super Bowl III there in 1968 and the Mets won two World Series titles in 1969 and 1986. Throw in some other concerts and wrestling matches Shea had a good run. I was there last year and its not much to write home about. I'm sure Citi Field will be an improvement.
The question is though whether the Mets will be better in 2009. They collapsed in 2007 with a 7 game lead with two weeks left in the season. Willie Randolph was fired mid-season and replaced by Jerry Manuel. The Mets played much better under him but it wasn't good enough. They had a three and a half game lead with two weeks to go this season. If nothing else, the Mets need to revamp their bullpen. They obviously will pursue Los Angeles Angels closer Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez who becomes a free agent at season's end as Billy Wagner is unable to pitch in 2009. But even if they sign "K-Rod" they need shore up their middle relief because Schoeneweis, Feliciano, Sanchez, Heillman and company couldn't do the job once Wagner got hurt. This is why Manuel let Johan Santana pitch complete games in his last two starts for fear the bullpen wouldn't hold his lead.
The Mets have a lot of talent with Santana anchoring the starting rotation, a power trio of Beltran, Delgado and David Wright and role players like Easley, Fernando Tatis and Endy Chavez who made a couple of brilliant plays in left field today. But the Mets are expected to win and somehow I doubt they will stand pat this off season.
Meanwhile, the Brewers travel to Philadelphia to face the Phillies in the NLDS. The Cubs will host the Los Angeles Dodgers in the other NLDS. Both games begin on Wednesday. I'll post my predictions in a couple of days.
Red Sox Retire Johnny Pesky's No. 6
As I write this, the Boston Red Sox have retired Johnny Pesky's number 6 in a pre-game ceremony before this afternoon's regular season finale between the Red Sox and Yankees. Yesterday Pesky turned 89.
If anyone could be called "Mr. Red Sox" it is Pesky. He first put on a Red Sox uniform in 1942. Had their been a Rookie of the Year Award around in 1942 he would have won it as he finished 3rd in MVP balloting that season behind Ted Williams and Joe Gordon of the New York Yankees. He missed three seasons due to WWII but picked it back up in 1946. He finished fourth in MVP balloting behind Hal Newhouser of the Tigers and teammates Williams and Bobby Doerr.
That season the Red Sox went to the World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals would win the Series in 7 when Pesky had his back turned to the plate as Enos Slaughter made his mad dash home. Pesky played with the Red Sox until 1952 when he was dealt to the Detroit Tigers. He ended his playing career with the Washington Senators in 1954.
Pesky managed the Red Sox in the 1963 and 1964 seasons. After a coaching stint with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Pesky returned to the Red Sox in 1975 as a member of the coaching staff. He served as the Sox interim manager in 1980 after the departure of Don Zimmer. In all, Pesky has spent 57 seasons with the Sox either as a player, coach, manager or broadcaster. It was fitting that Pesky was brought into the clubhouse when the Sox won the World Series in 2004 against the same St. Louis Cardinals that had cut his Fall Classic dreams 58 years earlier. Curt Schilling's embrace of Pesky is one of the most enduring images of that long awaited World Series.
What is interesting is that until now Pesky was ineligible to have his number retired. In the old days, you had to finish your playing career with the Red Sox and be in the Hall of Fame. When the Sox retired Carlton Fisk's 27 in 2000 they had a problem. While Fisk was in the Hall he did not finish his career with the Red Sox. In fact, he played with the White Sox longer than he played with the Red Sox. The previous ownership got around that by making Fisk a special VP. While Pesky had a great career he has not been inducted into Cooperstown but the current ownership was wise to lift that silly rule. I mean the right field foul pole is named after him.
Pesky becomes the sixth Red Sox player to have his number retired. The Red Sox have retired the numbers of Bobby Doerr (1), Joe Cronin (4), Carl Yastrzemski (8), Ted Williams (9) and Carlton Fisk (27). The Sox, of course, retired Jackie Robinson's 42 along with all other MLB clubs in 1997.
If anyone could be called "Mr. Red Sox" it is Pesky. He first put on a Red Sox uniform in 1942. Had their been a Rookie of the Year Award around in 1942 he would have won it as he finished 3rd in MVP balloting that season behind Ted Williams and Joe Gordon of the New York Yankees. He missed three seasons due to WWII but picked it back up in 1946. He finished fourth in MVP balloting behind Hal Newhouser of the Tigers and teammates Williams and Bobby Doerr.
That season the Red Sox went to the World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals would win the Series in 7 when Pesky had his back turned to the plate as Enos Slaughter made his mad dash home. Pesky played with the Red Sox until 1952 when he was dealt to the Detroit Tigers. He ended his playing career with the Washington Senators in 1954.
Pesky managed the Red Sox in the 1963 and 1964 seasons. After a coaching stint with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Pesky returned to the Red Sox in 1975 as a member of the coaching staff. He served as the Sox interim manager in 1980 after the departure of Don Zimmer. In all, Pesky has spent 57 seasons with the Sox either as a player, coach, manager or broadcaster. It was fitting that Pesky was brought into the clubhouse when the Sox won the World Series in 2004 against the same St. Louis Cardinals that had cut his Fall Classic dreams 58 years earlier. Curt Schilling's embrace of Pesky is one of the most enduring images of that long awaited World Series.
What is interesting is that until now Pesky was ineligible to have his number retired. In the old days, you had to finish your playing career with the Red Sox and be in the Hall of Fame. When the Sox retired Carlton Fisk's 27 in 2000 they had a problem. While Fisk was in the Hall he did not finish his career with the Red Sox. In fact, he played with the White Sox longer than he played with the Red Sox. The previous ownership got around that by making Fisk a special VP. While Pesky had a great career he has not been inducted into Cooperstown but the current ownership was wise to lift that silly rule. I mean the right field foul pole is named after him.
Pesky becomes the sixth Red Sox player to have his number retired. The Red Sox have retired the numbers of Bobby Doerr (1), Joe Cronin (4), Carl Yastrzemski (8), Ted Williams (9) and Carlton Fisk (27). The Sox, of course, retired Jackie Robinson's 42 along with all other MLB clubs in 1997.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Huckabee Debuts on FNC
Former Republican aspirant to the White House Mike Huckabee debuted his TV show on the Fox News Channel this evening.
I think the show has some potential. It is shot in front of a small studio audience. Huckabee began with a monologue which became a dialogue when he took a couple of questions from audience members. He then had a conversation with Elizabeth Hasselbeck of The View. That segment was followed by a panel discussion about what to do about the economy with Alexis Glick of the Fox Business Channel, syndicated radio host Dave Ramsey and former Democratic V-P candidate Geraldine Ferraro. The show concluded with Huckabee playing bass with a house band that consisted of FNC employees including Lauren Green on keyboards.
Huckabee has an engaging personality with good humor. I like the format of the show yet it is something with which he can play around. One could easily see Huckabee interview musicians and then jam with them on stage. The only question is will people watch the show. Saturday nights at 8 p.m. isn't an easy time to attract viewers. But if anyone can turn lemons into lemonade it's Huckabee.
I think the show has some potential. It is shot in front of a small studio audience. Huckabee began with a monologue which became a dialogue when he took a couple of questions from audience members. He then had a conversation with Elizabeth Hasselbeck of The View. That segment was followed by a panel discussion about what to do about the economy with Alexis Glick of the Fox Business Channel, syndicated radio host Dave Ramsey and former Democratic V-P candidate Geraldine Ferraro. The show concluded with Huckabee playing bass with a house band that consisted of FNC employees including Lauren Green on keyboards.
Huckabee has an engaging personality with good humor. I like the format of the show yet it is something with which he can play around. One could easily see Huckabee interview musicians and then jam with them on stage. The only question is will people watch the show. Saturday nights at 8 p.m. isn't an easy time to attract viewers. But if anyone can turn lemons into lemonade it's Huckabee.
Phillies Clinch NL East
The Philadelphia Phillies have clinched their second consecutive National League East Division Title with a 4-3 victory over the Washington Nationals this afternoon.
The only thing left to decide is the NL Wild Card between the New York Mets and the Milwaukee Brewers. The Mets got a complete game shutout against the Florida Marlins from Johan Santana who was pitching on only three days of rest. As of this writing, the Brewers are losing 7-3 to the Chicago Cubs in the 9th inning. Even if the Brewers lose this could go to the bitter end. If the Mets and Brewers are still tied tomorrow (assuming they can play tomorrow with the lousy weather) then there will be a one game playoff at Shea Stadium on Monday night.
If the Mets win the NL Wild Card, the Phillies will face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS. If the Brewers win the NL Wild Card they will travel to Philadelphia to face the Phillies.
The only thing left to decide is the NL Wild Card between the New York Mets and the Milwaukee Brewers. The Mets got a complete game shutout against the Florida Marlins from Johan Santana who was pitching on only three days of rest. As of this writing, the Brewers are losing 7-3 to the Chicago Cubs in the 9th inning. Even if the Brewers lose this could go to the bitter end. If the Mets and Brewers are still tied tomorrow (assuming they can play tomorrow with the lousy weather) then there will be a one game playoff at Shea Stadium on Monday night.
If the Mets win the NL Wild Card, the Phillies will face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS. If the Brewers win the NL Wild Card they will travel to Philadelphia to face the Phillies.
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