Do you remember when Christopher Buckley endorsed Barack Obama on the basis that he had a “first-class temperament"?
Well, when I saw President Obama's interview on 60 Minutes this evening and was struck by his sour disposition.
Now, it's hardly the first time I've seen Obama take a defensive posture when challenged. But my goodness he was downright rude to Steve Kroft:
Kroft: You mentioned Congress and health care. You ran for office based on the fact that you were going to try and reform the system. You wanted to change the status quo in Washington. Then you came in, and you turned over your top priority, health care, to the Congress.
Obama: That's not true.
Kroft: Five-hundred-thirty-five well, you laid out what you wanted, and you set the guidelines.
Obama: Right. Exactly.
Kroft: And then stood back and turned it over to 535 people who produced a 2,000-page bill that is-
Obama: What?
Kroft: Well, I haven't read it. So
Obama: Finish your thought, Steve.
If President Bush had told a journalist to "finish your thought" he would have been crucified in the media. If Obama can't handle hearing that many Americans are having trouble understanding what is in the health care bill then it shows how truly out of touch he is with the real world.
How many times is Obama going to use the phrase "over the last eight years"? Obama was true to form tonight:
And one of the mistakes that was made over the last eight years is for us to have a triumphant sense about war.
There was a tendency to say, "We can go in. We can kick some tail. This is some glorious exercise." When in fact, this is a tough business.
Perhaps Obama should note President Bush's address to the Joint Session of Congress on September 20, 2001:
Now this war will not be like the war against Iraq a decade ago, with a decisive liberation of territory and a swift conclusion. It will not look like the air war above Kosovo two years ago, where no ground troops were used and not a single American was lost in combat. Our response involves far more than instant retaliation and isolated strikes. Americans should not expect one battle, but a lengthy campaign, unlike any other we have ever seen.
If President Obama insists on impugning the character of the Bush Administration he could at least cite a specific example to support his assertion. During his West Point speech, Obama said, "Commanders in Afghanistan repeatedly asked for support to deal with the reemergence of the Taliban, but these reinforcements did not arrive." Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld called Obama's assertion "a bald misstatement." Rumsfeld also said, "“I am not aware of a single request of that nature between 2001 and 2006.” But then again we know what happens when there isn't anyone to hold his teleprompter in place for him:
Obama: I did not run for office to be helping out a bunch of, you know, fat cat bankers on Wall Street. The only ones that are gonna be paying out these fat bonuses are the ones that have now paid back that TARP money and aren't using taxpayer loans.
Kroft: Do you think that's why they paid it back so quickly?
Obama: I think in some cases that was a motivation. Which I think tells me that the people on Wall Street still don't get it. They don't get it. They're still puzzled. "Why is it that people are mad at the banks?" Well, let's see. You guys are drawing down $10, $20 million bonuses after America went through the worst economic year that it's gone through in decades, and you guys caused the problem. And we've got ten percent unemployment. Why do you think people might be a little frustrated.
Kroft: Do you think that they've made some of these bonuses based in part on the generosity and policies of the United States government to help put the financial system back on its feet?
Obama: I think there is no doubt about it. And what's most frustrating me right now is you've got these same banks who benefitted from taxpayer assistance who are fighting tooth and nail with their lobbyists up on Capitol Hill fighting against financial regulatory reform.
There's no doubt Wall Street deserves some share of the blame for the economic collapse but there's plenty of blame to go around. Singling out Wall Street is not helpful. Would President Obama have preferred Wall Street defaulted on TARP? Besides I don't if Obama should have drawn attention to the fact the unemployment rate is at 10% when it happened under his watch. Again, it's not all his fault but his economic policies have certainly contributed to it.
John McCain was severely criticized for his temper and erratic behavior. Well, President Obama certainly did not come off in this interview as the calm, cool and collected person he presented himself to the American voter. There was little evidence of the "first-class temperament" on display this evening.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Palin & Shatner Go Into Warp Drive on Conan
Last July, shortly after Sarah Palin resigned as Governor of Alaska, William Shatner appeared on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien where he read part of her resignation speech as performance poetry. At the time, I made this observation:
Since Alaska is a frontier state it is perhaps fitting that someone who has traversed the final frontier like Captain Kirk should be the one person who can serve as a medium between Palin and the parts of America who do not yet understand her.
For that matter, Conan might be the only comedian in America whose Palin humor hasn't been dehumanizing. Take a look at what I wrote when Palin and David Letterman had their row last June:
If Conan O'Brien were smart he'd invite Palin onto his version of The Tonight Show. It would be in his interest in light of the fact that he has fallen behind Letterman in the ratings scarcely two weeks into his run as its new host. But that would probably offend the brass at NBC who should rename their network Obama Central.
Well, it looks like Conan decided to offend his bosses. Sarah Palin made a surprise appearance on Conan tonight after William Shatner read an excerpt of Going Rogue. Palin came out and read an excerpt from Shatner's autobiography in Shatner style and was quite well received.
She couldn't have asked for anything more this week. Palin was out front and center with an op-ed in The Washington Post calling on President Obama to boycott the Copenhagen Conference. Instead of debating the merits of her argument her critics instead said there was no room for her thoughts in the public square. That's liberal tolerance for you.
Then she rewards Conan for his kindness and graces his show. Note to David Letterman: You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. Palin held her own with a captivated Captain Kirk and had the audience laughing with her. The looney left and condescending conservatives aren't laughing. I say let them wallow in their misery. Sarah Palin has higher grounds to roam.
Since Alaska is a frontier state it is perhaps fitting that someone who has traversed the final frontier like Captain Kirk should be the one person who can serve as a medium between Palin and the parts of America who do not yet understand her.
For that matter, Conan might be the only comedian in America whose Palin humor hasn't been dehumanizing. Take a look at what I wrote when Palin and David Letterman had their row last June:
If Conan O'Brien were smart he'd invite Palin onto his version of The Tonight Show. It would be in his interest in light of the fact that he has fallen behind Letterman in the ratings scarcely two weeks into his run as its new host. But that would probably offend the brass at NBC who should rename their network Obama Central.
Well, it looks like Conan decided to offend his bosses. Sarah Palin made a surprise appearance on Conan tonight after William Shatner read an excerpt of Going Rogue. Palin came out and read an excerpt from Shatner's autobiography in Shatner style and was quite well received.
She couldn't have asked for anything more this week. Palin was out front and center with an op-ed in The Washington Post calling on President Obama to boycott the Copenhagen Conference. Instead of debating the merits of her argument her critics instead said there was no room for her thoughts in the public square. That's liberal tolerance for you.
Then she rewards Conan for his kindness and graces his show. Note to David Letterman: You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. Palin held her own with a captivated Captain Kirk and had the audience laughing with her. The looney left and condescending conservatives aren't laughing. I say let them wallow in their misery. Sarah Palin has higher grounds to roam.
Did The White Sox Make a Putz Move?
Relief pitcher J.J. Putz has signed with the Chicago White Sox for a one-year contract worth $3 million.
Putz pitched with the New York Mets in 2009. It was exactly one year ago that Putz was acquired from the Seattle Mariners in an 11 player trade which also involved the Cleveland Indians. Putz was going to be Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez's set up man but his season was disastrous. In 29 appearances, Putz was 1-4 with a 5.22 ERA.
In Seattle, Putz had been the closer. He saved 36 games in 2006 and 40 games in 2007. But in 2008, Putz sustained an elbow injury and ended up losing the closer job to Brandon Morrow. His elbow injuries would return while with the Mets in 2009.
So have the White Sox made a Putz move?
Obviously, Putz wants to close again but it would appear that he would start the season as the right handed set up man for Bobby Jenks. Some think the acquistion of Putz will light a fire under Jenks who was inconsistent in 2009. While he saved 29 games for the Chisox his ERA of 3.71 was more than a run higher than it was in 2008. If Jenks continues to struggle and Putz pitches the way he did in '06 and '07 he could be a closer again. Then again both Jenks and Putz might be ineffective. So then what?
Given Putz's recent elbow troubles I think the jury is out on this signing.
Putz pitched with the New York Mets in 2009. It was exactly one year ago that Putz was acquired from the Seattle Mariners in an 11 player trade which also involved the Cleveland Indians. Putz was going to be Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez's set up man but his season was disastrous. In 29 appearances, Putz was 1-4 with a 5.22 ERA.
In Seattle, Putz had been the closer. He saved 36 games in 2006 and 40 games in 2007. But in 2008, Putz sustained an elbow injury and ended up losing the closer job to Brandon Morrow. His elbow injuries would return while with the Mets in 2009.
So have the White Sox made a Putz move?
Obviously, Putz wants to close again but it would appear that he would start the season as the right handed set up man for Bobby Jenks. Some think the acquistion of Putz will light a fire under Jenks who was inconsistent in 2009. While he saved 29 games for the Chisox his ERA of 3.71 was more than a run higher than it was in 2008. If Jenks continues to struggle and Putz pitches the way he did in '06 and '07 he could be a closer again. Then again both Jenks and Putz might be ineffective. So then what?
Given Putz's recent elbow troubles I think the jury is out on this signing.
Is Jason Kendall The King of Catchers?
Jason Kendall has signed a two-year contract with the Kansas City Royals.
When discussing the best catchers in the game past and present, Kendall's name seldom comes into the discussion.
But Kendall has played in the majors for 14 seasons and enters 2010 with over 2,000 hits.
I did not realize Kendall had that many hits. He is one of eight backstops with 2,000 plus hits. That list includes Ivan Rodriguez, Ted Simmons, Carlton Fisk, Yogi Berra, Mike Piazza, Gary Carter and Johnny Bench. Pretty good company. Fisk, Bench, Yogi and Carter are in the Hall. Piazza and I-Rod will be and Simmons should be.
Kendall is 35. If he plays another five years he could be the all-time hits leader amongst catchers.
There are a couple of reasons Kendall generally isn't included in this discussion.
First, Kendall has played under the radar. He played the bulk of his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates which (I can't emphasize enough) is the Siberia of MLB. Kendall has also played with the Oakland Athletics, Chicago Cubs and for the past two seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers. The only major market team he's played for is the Cubs and he was only there for the second half of the 2007 season.
Second, Kendall is not a big run producer. He's hit only 75 career home runs. The most he hit in any one season is 14 back in 2000. He's also only had one season where he had more than 60 RBI. In 1998, Kendall drove in 75 runs. So in that regard he's no Bench or Piazza.
But he does have 177 career stolen bases. That ties him with Ray Schalk in second place on the all time list. Only Roger Bresnahan has more with 212. Both of them are in Cooperstown too.
So if Kendall isn't the king of catchers he certainly should have a seat at the round table.
When discussing the best catchers in the game past and present, Kendall's name seldom comes into the discussion.
But Kendall has played in the majors for 14 seasons and enters 2010 with over 2,000 hits.
I did not realize Kendall had that many hits. He is one of eight backstops with 2,000 plus hits. That list includes Ivan Rodriguez, Ted Simmons, Carlton Fisk, Yogi Berra, Mike Piazza, Gary Carter and Johnny Bench. Pretty good company. Fisk, Bench, Yogi and Carter are in the Hall. Piazza and I-Rod will be and Simmons should be.
Kendall is 35. If he plays another five years he could be the all-time hits leader amongst catchers.
There are a couple of reasons Kendall generally isn't included in this discussion.
First, Kendall has played under the radar. He played the bulk of his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates which (I can't emphasize enough) is the Siberia of MLB. Kendall has also played with the Oakland Athletics, Chicago Cubs and for the past two seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers. The only major market team he's played for is the Cubs and he was only there for the second half of the 2007 season.
Second, Kendall is not a big run producer. He's hit only 75 career home runs. The most he hit in any one season is 14 back in 2000. He's also only had one season where he had more than 60 RBI. In 1998, Kendall drove in 75 runs. So in that regard he's no Bench or Piazza.
But he does have 177 career stolen bases. That ties him with Ray Schalk in second place on the all time list. Only Roger Bresnahan has more with 212. Both of them are in Cooperstown too.
So if Kendall isn't the king of catchers he certainly should have a seat at the round table.
Happy Chanukah
The Festival of Lights is underway.
What most people don't realize is that Chanukah came about because of a military victory. The Maccabees drove the Syrians from the Holy Temple in Jerusalem in 165 B.C. and restored it as a Jewish place of worship.
In the aftermath of the battle there was only sufficient oil to light the Holy Temple for one night. But instead, the oil burned for eight nights. That is why Chanukah last eight nights.
I know that's a very condensed version of events but it is Chanukah at its essence.
I think there's tendency to focus on the fact Chanukah last eight days rather than the reason for it. People are more likely to think of dreidels and latkes than Maccabees and The Holy Temple.
I wish a movie could be made that would be to Chanukah what The Ten Commandments is to Passover.
Until then I wish all my brethren a Happy Chanukah.
What most people don't realize is that Chanukah came about because of a military victory. The Maccabees drove the Syrians from the Holy Temple in Jerusalem in 165 B.C. and restored it as a Jewish place of worship.
In the aftermath of the battle there was only sufficient oil to light the Holy Temple for one night. But instead, the oil burned for eight nights. That is why Chanukah last eight nights.
I know that's a very condensed version of events but it is Chanukah at its essence.
I think there's tendency to focus on the fact Chanukah last eight days rather than the reason for it. People are more likely to think of dreidels and latkes than Maccabees and The Holy Temple.
I wish a movie could be made that would be to Chanukah what The Ten Commandments is to Passover.
Until then I wish all my brethren a Happy Chanukah.
Jenny Sanford Is No Elin Nordegren
South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford might have survived impeachment and kept his job.
But he couldn't keep his marriage.
First Lady Jenny Sanford today filed for divorce.
Clearly, Jenny Sanford is no Elin Nordegren.
Although Tiger Woods has been linked to at least ten women, Nordegren is standing by her man for the sake of her children.
Needless to say, Sanford is singing another Tammy Wynette tune. One extramarital affair and done.
But what can one say other than Tiger Woods has a better stroke than Mark Sanford.
But he couldn't keep his marriage.
First Lady Jenny Sanford today filed for divorce.
Clearly, Jenny Sanford is no Elin Nordegren.
Although Tiger Woods has been linked to at least ten women, Nordegren is standing by her man for the sake of her children.
Needless to say, Sanford is singing another Tammy Wynette tune. One extramarital affair and done.
But what can one say other than Tiger Woods has a better stroke than Mark Sanford.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Some More Moves @ The MLB Winter Meetings
Here's a few more free agent signings and trades of interest coming out of MLB's Winter Meetings in Indianapolis.
Feliz & Lyon Sign With Houston Astros; Acquire Lindstrom From Marlins
Pedro Feliz, who spent the past two seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, has signed a one-year contract with the Houston Astros worth $4.5 million. The Phillies declined his option for the 2010 season and subsequently signed ex-Tiger Placido Polanco to play third. It's interesting that Polanco and Feliz are very comparable players yet Polanco gets three years in Philly while Feliz gets one in Houston.
The Astros also made a couple of additions to their bullpen. First, they acquired Matt Lindstrom from the Florida Marlins for a player to be named later. Then today they signed free agent pitcher Brandon Lyon to a three-year, $15 million contract. Lyon spent the 2009 season with the Detroit Tigers. He was initially brought in to be the closer but lost that job early on to Fernando Rodney. Lyon did pitch much better in the second half and did a good job as Rodney's set up man.
Will Lindstrom and Lyon compete for the closer's job? Because they signed Lyon to a three year deal leads me to believe he'll be the closer. However, he's been inconsistent in that role during his career. While he did save 26 games for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2008 by the end of the season it was Chad Qualls who was the closer. I think Lyon is better suited to set up and Lindstrom is better suited to close. Lindstrom has better stuff although he does have control problems. He was the Marlins closer until late June when a sprained elbow sidelined him. When he returned, Leo Nunez had supplanted him in the pen and made him expendable. So both Lindstrom and Lyon are seeking fresh starts. But neither of them might be much of a factor unless the Astros address their weak starting rotation.
Atlanta Braves trade pitcher Rafael Soriano to the Tampa Bay Rays for pitcher Jesse Chavez
I wondered what would happen to Soriano once they had signed Billy Wagner last week. Soriano was the Braves closer last season and saved 27 games. But I think he's better suited to the 8th inning. It appears Soriano was amenable to going back to that role because he accepted arbitration with the Braves earlier this week. But they opted to deal him to Tampa for middle reliever Jesse Chavez.
Well, Soriano is in the AL East. If he can close there then he can close anywhere. He will certainly be an improvement over the bullpen by committee approach Rays manager Joe Maddon took last season with the mid-season retirement of Troy Percival. J.P. Howell led the club with 17 saves in 2009 but is better suited to middle relief.
As for Chavez, this is the second time he's been traded in just over a month. In November, the Rays acquired Chavez from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for infielder Akinori Iwamura. Sometimes you get traded to a club and never end up pitching for them. Chavez and ex-Red Sox hurler Takashi Saito will set up Wagner from the right side along with Peter Moylan. This has the potential of being a very even trade.
Crosby Signs With Bucs
Bobby Crosby won the 2004 AL Rookie of the Year with the Oakland Athletics. He hasn't come close to the numbers he put up that season. For starters he's been injury prone. Crosby has only played more than 100 games in a season once since and that was in 2008. Last season, Crosby became a utility player with Oakland.
He has now signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates. It's unclear whether Crosby will continue that role in Pittsburgh or if he will compete with Ronny Cedeno for the starting shorstop job. A platoon situation is unlikely since they are both right-handed batters.
Red Sox Acquire Pitcher Boof Bonser From Twins
The Boston Red Sox have acquired pitcher Boof Bonser from the Minnesota Twins for a player to be named later. Bonser is a reclamation project. He did not pitch in 2009 due to shoulder surgery. If Bonser should pitch well he should become a Fenway favorite. I can hear it now.
"Boooooooooooooooffffffffffffffffff!!!" If he doesn't then some wise guy will say, "What a Boofball."
What's in a name? But what a great name.
Feliz & Lyon Sign With Houston Astros; Acquire Lindstrom From Marlins
Pedro Feliz, who spent the past two seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, has signed a one-year contract with the Houston Astros worth $4.5 million. The Phillies declined his option for the 2010 season and subsequently signed ex-Tiger Placido Polanco to play third. It's interesting that Polanco and Feliz are very comparable players yet Polanco gets three years in Philly while Feliz gets one in Houston.
The Astros also made a couple of additions to their bullpen. First, they acquired Matt Lindstrom from the Florida Marlins for a player to be named later. Then today they signed free agent pitcher Brandon Lyon to a three-year, $15 million contract. Lyon spent the 2009 season with the Detroit Tigers. He was initially brought in to be the closer but lost that job early on to Fernando Rodney. Lyon did pitch much better in the second half and did a good job as Rodney's set up man.
Will Lindstrom and Lyon compete for the closer's job? Because they signed Lyon to a three year deal leads me to believe he'll be the closer. However, he's been inconsistent in that role during his career. While he did save 26 games for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2008 by the end of the season it was Chad Qualls who was the closer. I think Lyon is better suited to set up and Lindstrom is better suited to close. Lindstrom has better stuff although he does have control problems. He was the Marlins closer until late June when a sprained elbow sidelined him. When he returned, Leo Nunez had supplanted him in the pen and made him expendable. So both Lindstrom and Lyon are seeking fresh starts. But neither of them might be much of a factor unless the Astros address their weak starting rotation.
Atlanta Braves trade pitcher Rafael Soriano to the Tampa Bay Rays for pitcher Jesse Chavez
I wondered what would happen to Soriano once they had signed Billy Wagner last week. Soriano was the Braves closer last season and saved 27 games. But I think he's better suited to the 8th inning. It appears Soriano was amenable to going back to that role because he accepted arbitration with the Braves earlier this week. But they opted to deal him to Tampa for middle reliever Jesse Chavez.
Well, Soriano is in the AL East. If he can close there then he can close anywhere. He will certainly be an improvement over the bullpen by committee approach Rays manager Joe Maddon took last season with the mid-season retirement of Troy Percival. J.P. Howell led the club with 17 saves in 2009 but is better suited to middle relief.
As for Chavez, this is the second time he's been traded in just over a month. In November, the Rays acquired Chavez from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for infielder Akinori Iwamura. Sometimes you get traded to a club and never end up pitching for them. Chavez and ex-Red Sox hurler Takashi Saito will set up Wagner from the right side along with Peter Moylan. This has the potential of being a very even trade.
Crosby Signs With Bucs
Bobby Crosby won the 2004 AL Rookie of the Year with the Oakland Athletics. He hasn't come close to the numbers he put up that season. For starters he's been injury prone. Crosby has only played more than 100 games in a season once since and that was in 2008. Last season, Crosby became a utility player with Oakland.
He has now signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates. It's unclear whether Crosby will continue that role in Pittsburgh or if he will compete with Ronny Cedeno for the starting shorstop job. A platoon situation is unlikely since they are both right-handed batters.
Red Sox Acquire Pitcher Boof Bonser From Twins
The Boston Red Sox have acquired pitcher Boof Bonser from the Minnesota Twins for a player to be named later. Bonser is a reclamation project. He did not pitch in 2009 due to shoulder surgery. If Bonser should pitch well he should become a Fenway favorite. I can hear it now.
"Boooooooooooooooffffffffffffffffff!!!" If he doesn't then some wise guy will say, "What a Boofball."
What's in a name? But what a great name.
Some Belated Thoughts on Obama's Nobel Speech
Here are some belated thoughts with regard to President Obama's Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech.
In light of my article from earlier this week which made the case that George W. Bush was more deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize, I found it interesting that Obama should acknowledge "my accomplishments are slight" when compared to Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela, George Marshall and Albert Schweitzer. Well, I would add Bush to the list. His PEPFAR (President's Emergency Relief Plan for AIDS Relief) initiative saved over a million lives. How many lives has President Obama saved?
Some conservatives like Michael Ledeen from National Review Online are heartened that President Obama acknowledged there's "evil" in the world. Now if only he could bring himself to describe al Qaeda as terrorists:
I face the world as it is, and cannot stand idle in the face of threats to the American people. For make no mistake: Evil does exist in the world. A non-violent movement could not have halted Hitler's armies. Negotiations cannot convince al Qaeda's leaders to lay down their arms. To say that force may sometimes be necessary is not a call to cynicism -- it is a recognition of history; the imperfections of man and the limits of reason.
I agree with that paragraph in its entirety. It might very well be the most sensible thing Obama has said in his entire presidency. Of course, George W. Bush described Iran as part of "the axis of evil" and was mocked ceaselessly for it. This begs a question of President Obama. If man is imperfect and there is a limit to reason would he characterize the words and deeds of Iran's regime as evil? If no then why not? If yes then why not say it?:
So even as we respect the unique culture and traditions of different countries, America will always be a voice for those aspirations that are universal. We will bear witness to the quiet dignity of reformers like Aung Sang Suu Kyi; to the bravery of Zimbabweans who cast their ballots in the face of beatings; to the hundreds of thousands who have marched silently through the streets of Iran. It is telling that the leaders of these governments fear the aspirations of their own people more than the power of any other nation. And it is the responsibility of all free people and free nations to make clear that these movements -- these movements of hope and history -- they have us on their side.
Well, I suppose better late than never with regard to democracy protesters in Iran. But it is of little consolation. The Iranian people sure could have used President Obama on their side back in June when he said it was not for us to meddle into their affairs. He needs to do a lot more than pay them lip service. President Obama needs to put an end to his naive and silly policy of engagement with Iran once and for all, hit the reset button and call for regime change.
In light of my article from earlier this week which made the case that George W. Bush was more deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize, I found it interesting that Obama should acknowledge "my accomplishments are slight" when compared to Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela, George Marshall and Albert Schweitzer. Well, I would add Bush to the list. His PEPFAR (President's Emergency Relief Plan for AIDS Relief) initiative saved over a million lives. How many lives has President Obama saved?
Some conservatives like Michael Ledeen from National Review Online are heartened that President Obama acknowledged there's "evil" in the world. Now if only he could bring himself to describe al Qaeda as terrorists:
I face the world as it is, and cannot stand idle in the face of threats to the American people. For make no mistake: Evil does exist in the world. A non-violent movement could not have halted Hitler's armies. Negotiations cannot convince al Qaeda's leaders to lay down their arms. To say that force may sometimes be necessary is not a call to cynicism -- it is a recognition of history; the imperfections of man and the limits of reason.
I agree with that paragraph in its entirety. It might very well be the most sensible thing Obama has said in his entire presidency. Of course, George W. Bush described Iran as part of "the axis of evil" and was mocked ceaselessly for it. This begs a question of President Obama. If man is imperfect and there is a limit to reason would he characterize the words and deeds of Iran's regime as evil? If no then why not? If yes then why not say it?:
So even as we respect the unique culture and traditions of different countries, America will always be a voice for those aspirations that are universal. We will bear witness to the quiet dignity of reformers like Aung Sang Suu Kyi; to the bravery of Zimbabweans who cast their ballots in the face of beatings; to the hundreds of thousands who have marched silently through the streets of Iran. It is telling that the leaders of these governments fear the aspirations of their own people more than the power of any other nation. And it is the responsibility of all free people and free nations to make clear that these movements -- these movements of hope and history -- they have us on their side.
Well, I suppose better late than never with regard to democracy protesters in Iran. But it is of little consolation. The Iranian people sure could have used President Obama on their side back in June when he said it was not for us to meddle into their affairs. He needs to do a lot more than pay them lip service. President Obama needs to put an end to his naive and silly policy of engagement with Iran once and for all, hit the reset button and call for regime change.
Britain Encouraging Boycott of Israeli Goods
The British Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs has put forward new guidelines to merchants to distinguish goods imported from the West Bank.
Merchants are being encouraged to distinguish goods bought from Palestinians and goods bought from Jewish settlements. This is tantamount to a boycott. The British Foreign Office, of course, denies it:
"This is emphatically not about calling for a boycott of Israel," a Foreign Office spokesman said. "We believe that would do nothing to advance the peace process. We oppose any such boycott of Israel. We believe consumers should be able to choose for themselves what produce they buy. We have been very clear both in public and in private that settlements are illegal and an obstacle to peace."
But if it is Britain's position that Israeli settlements are "illegal and an obstacle to peace," then isn't the British government giving businesses and by extension consumers to greenlight boycott goods made in Jewish settlements? Britain's position also has the effect of singling out Jews. Somehow I don't think any such guidelines are in place for goods produced in Kashmir for instance.
It is also worth noting that Britain strongly supported Sweden's push for the EU to recognize East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state. Israel strongly protested and the EU backed down. I suppose this is one way Britain can get back at Israel.
I was quite amused at this quote from Barbara Stocking, the Director of Oxfam Great Britain. Stocking said, "Profiting from the goods produced in the illegal settlements is contrary to international law and they should be banned from sale in the European Union, as they are in Palestine."
So the law in "Palestine" should be a guide for the law in Europe? Homosexuality is illegal in the Palestinian Authority. Somehow I doubt Ms. Stocking believes homosexuality should be outlawed in Europe.
But the statement of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign is even more priceless than that of Ms. Stocking:
Particularly following Israel's massacre in Gaza, consumers have been shocked at Israel's war crimes and want to take action. They do not want to feel complicit in Israel's occupation by buying stolen goods.
I'm surprised the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign didn't accuse Israel of sucking the blood of Palestinian children and putting it into Purim pastries.
Since Britain wishes to single out Israel in this way, I don't think I will buy bottles of Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce anymore. A little less flavor in my soup is a small price to pay to stand up to anti-Semitism.
Merchants are being encouraged to distinguish goods bought from Palestinians and goods bought from Jewish settlements. This is tantamount to a boycott. The British Foreign Office, of course, denies it:
"This is emphatically not about calling for a boycott of Israel," a Foreign Office spokesman said. "We believe that would do nothing to advance the peace process. We oppose any such boycott of Israel. We believe consumers should be able to choose for themselves what produce they buy. We have been very clear both in public and in private that settlements are illegal and an obstacle to peace."
But if it is Britain's position that Israeli settlements are "illegal and an obstacle to peace," then isn't the British government giving businesses and by extension consumers to greenlight boycott goods made in Jewish settlements? Britain's position also has the effect of singling out Jews. Somehow I don't think any such guidelines are in place for goods produced in Kashmir for instance.
It is also worth noting that Britain strongly supported Sweden's push for the EU to recognize East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state. Israel strongly protested and the EU backed down. I suppose this is one way Britain can get back at Israel.
I was quite amused at this quote from Barbara Stocking, the Director of Oxfam Great Britain. Stocking said, "Profiting from the goods produced in the illegal settlements is contrary to international law and they should be banned from sale in the European Union, as they are in Palestine."
So the law in "Palestine" should be a guide for the law in Europe? Homosexuality is illegal in the Palestinian Authority. Somehow I doubt Ms. Stocking believes homosexuality should be outlawed in Europe.
But the statement of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign is even more priceless than that of Ms. Stocking:
Particularly following Israel's massacre in Gaza, consumers have been shocked at Israel's war crimes and want to take action. They do not want to feel complicit in Israel's occupation by buying stolen goods.
I'm surprised the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign didn't accuse Israel of sucking the blood of Palestinian children and putting it into Purim pastries.
Since Britain wishes to single out Israel in this way, I don't think I will buy bottles of Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce anymore. A little less flavor in my soup is a small price to pay to stand up to anti-Semitism.
Egypt Building Wall Along Gaza Strip
Egypt is building an underground steel wall to block tunnels that transport smugglers from the Gaza Strip.
International outrage and condemnation is sure to follow. The UN General Assembly will probably get around to addressing Egypt's wall at around the same time they get around to defining terrorism. Or as President Obama likes to call them "man caused disasters."
It's worth noting the Egyptians are getting help from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Somehow I don't think the Obama Administration is going to send the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assist with the ongoing construction of Israel's security fence along the West Bank.
International outrage and condemnation is sure to follow. The UN General Assembly will probably get around to addressing Egypt's wall at around the same time they get around to defining terrorism. Or as President Obama likes to call them "man caused disasters."
It's worth noting the Egyptians are getting help from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Somehow I don't think the Obama Administration is going to send the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assist with the ongoing construction of Israel's security fence along the West Bank.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Rangers Trade Millwood to O's; Sign Harden
I'm not sure what the Texas Rangers are thinking here.
Today, the Rangers traded their number one starter Kevin Millwood to the Baltimore Orioles for relief pitcher Chris Ray, a player to be named later and an undisclosed amount of cash.
The Rangers then went out and signed free agent pitcher Rich Harden to a one-year contract worth $7.5 million.
Now, I understand that the Rangers unloaded Millwood to cut costs. He was in the final year of a five year contract worth $60 million. The Rangers owed Millwood in excess of $12 million in 2010. Millwood also turns 35 on Christmas Eve. He will become a free agent at the end of 2010 and likely pitch elsewhere in 2011 unless he really, really likes crabcakes.
Still, if I were the Rangers I would have wanted a little more in return than Chris Ray who had a dreadful season in 2009. Ray went 0-4 with a 7.27 ERA in 46 appearances with the Orioles this past season after missing all of 2008 recovering from Tommy John surgery. Ray had been the Orioles closer and had 33 saves in 2006. The silver lining here is that the Rangers bullpen is pretty decent with C.J. Wilson and Frank Francisco in the 8th and 9th innings. I don't think the Rangers expect Ray to be a closer. Nevertheless, I don't care how much money the Rangers got from Baltimore. If I am trading my most consistent starting pitcher I want more than a reliever who had an ERA north of 7.00.
What I understand even less is signing Rich Harden. Don't get me wrong. Harden has enormous talent and just turned 28. But Rangers President Nolan Ryan is looking towards having a four man rotation and his starters go deep into games. In seven big league seasons, Harden has only started more than 30 games or pitched more than 150 innings and that was in 2004 with the Oakland Athletics. He posted a career high 11 wins that season. Since 2005, Harden has been placed on the DL seven times. Given Harden's lack of durability, I just don't see how he fits into Ryan's plans.
Harden reminds me a lot of another talented ex-Cubs pitcher - Kerry Wood. Before being traded to the Cleveland Indians last off season, Wood went to the DL 12 times in ten seasons. Eventually, the Cubs converted him from a starter to a reliever. Like Wood, Harden strikes out more than a batter an inning. If Harden meets with injuries in 2010 then the Rangers or whoever takes him on needs to utilize him out of the bullpen.
As of now the Rangers starting three looks something like: Scott Feldman, Rich Harden and Derek Holland. The fourth member of the rotation could be Tommy Hunter, Brandon McCarthy or hard throwing 21-year old righty Neftali Feliz. The Rangers pitching was solid through August but faded late in the season.
Millwood provided a stabilizing veteran presence during his Rangers tenure. Feldman did win 17 games in 2009 but I don't we can pencil those figures in for Feldman or any of the other Rangers starters. Millwood made 30 or more starts in three of his four seasons in a Rangers uniform. While no one expects the Orioles to reach the post-season, Millwood will be an anchor for a very young rotation that includes the likes of Brad Bergesen, Jason Berken and David Hernandez.
Harden, on the other hand, might not pass the physical. The St. Louis Cardinals took one look at Harden's medical records and decided to sign Brad Penny instead. Like I said, I just don't understand what the Rangers are thinking here. But if Harden and Ray both pan out and help them to the post-season then Rangers GM Jon Daniels will be hailed as a genius.
Today, the Rangers traded their number one starter Kevin Millwood to the Baltimore Orioles for relief pitcher Chris Ray, a player to be named later and an undisclosed amount of cash.
The Rangers then went out and signed free agent pitcher Rich Harden to a one-year contract worth $7.5 million.
Now, I understand that the Rangers unloaded Millwood to cut costs. He was in the final year of a five year contract worth $60 million. The Rangers owed Millwood in excess of $12 million in 2010. Millwood also turns 35 on Christmas Eve. He will become a free agent at the end of 2010 and likely pitch elsewhere in 2011 unless he really, really likes crabcakes.
Still, if I were the Rangers I would have wanted a little more in return than Chris Ray who had a dreadful season in 2009. Ray went 0-4 with a 7.27 ERA in 46 appearances with the Orioles this past season after missing all of 2008 recovering from Tommy John surgery. Ray had been the Orioles closer and had 33 saves in 2006. The silver lining here is that the Rangers bullpen is pretty decent with C.J. Wilson and Frank Francisco in the 8th and 9th innings. I don't think the Rangers expect Ray to be a closer. Nevertheless, I don't care how much money the Rangers got from Baltimore. If I am trading my most consistent starting pitcher I want more than a reliever who had an ERA north of 7.00.
What I understand even less is signing Rich Harden. Don't get me wrong. Harden has enormous talent and just turned 28. But Rangers President Nolan Ryan is looking towards having a four man rotation and his starters go deep into games. In seven big league seasons, Harden has only started more than 30 games or pitched more than 150 innings and that was in 2004 with the Oakland Athletics. He posted a career high 11 wins that season. Since 2005, Harden has been placed on the DL seven times. Given Harden's lack of durability, I just don't see how he fits into Ryan's plans.
Harden reminds me a lot of another talented ex-Cubs pitcher - Kerry Wood. Before being traded to the Cleveland Indians last off season, Wood went to the DL 12 times in ten seasons. Eventually, the Cubs converted him from a starter to a reliever. Like Wood, Harden strikes out more than a batter an inning. If Harden meets with injuries in 2010 then the Rangers or whoever takes him on needs to utilize him out of the bullpen.
As of now the Rangers starting three looks something like: Scott Feldman, Rich Harden and Derek Holland. The fourth member of the rotation could be Tommy Hunter, Brandon McCarthy or hard throwing 21-year old righty Neftali Feliz. The Rangers pitching was solid through August but faded late in the season.
Millwood provided a stabilizing veteran presence during his Rangers tenure. Feldman did win 17 games in 2009 but I don't we can pencil those figures in for Feldman or any of the other Rangers starters. Millwood made 30 or more starts in three of his four seasons in a Rangers uniform. While no one expects the Orioles to reach the post-season, Millwood will be an anchor for a very young rotation that includes the likes of Brad Bergesen, Jason Berken and David Hernandez.
Harden, on the other hand, might not pass the physical. The St. Louis Cardinals took one look at Harden's medical records and decided to sign Brad Penny instead. Like I said, I just don't understand what the Rangers are thinking here. But if Harden and Ray both pan out and help them to the post-season then Rangers GM Jon Daniels will be hailed as a genius.
The Wolf Pack Gathers in Milwaukee
Pitcher Randy Wolf has signed a three-year, $27 million contract with the Milwaukee Brewers with a club option for 2013.
Wolf pitched for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2009. His record was 11-7 with a 3.23 ERA. He led the NL in games started (34) and finished tenth in innings pitched for the NL West champions.
I have mixed feelings about this signing. On one hand, Wolf appears to have overcome the injuries he sustained between 2004-2007 and has enjoyed solid back to back seasons. On the other hand, I am not sure a 33-year-old pitcher is worth $9 million a season even if he is a lefty.
But the Brewers are in dire need of starting pitching and if he wins 10 to 12 games for them in 2010 he'll have done his job. If the Brewers are to return to their post-season form of 2008 then Yovanni Gallardo has to do better than a 13-12 record even if he does strikeout 200 plus batters. It's also not clear to me why the Brewers declined Braden Looper's option for 2010.
It is instructive to compare the team Wolf is leaving to the team he is joining.
Both the Dodgers and Brewers were roughly equal when it came to offense in 2009. The Dodgers were 4th in the NL in runs scored with 780. The Brewers were 3rd with 785.
However, their pitching is night and day. Brewers pitching surrendered 772 earned runs. They gave up almost as many earned runs as they scored. Only the lowly Washington Nationals pitching staff was more futile giving up 794 earned runs last season. The Dodgers pitching staff, on the other hand, gave up the fewest earned runs in the league with 559.
So even if Randy Wolf does everything that is asked of him, the Brewers pitching staff has their work cut out for them. Although I like that they've also signed veteran reliever LaTroy Hawkins to a two-year deal. He's a dependable middle reliever who can close in a pinch. Hawkins saved 11 games for the Houston Astros in 2009.
Wolf pitched for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2009. His record was 11-7 with a 3.23 ERA. He led the NL in games started (34) and finished tenth in innings pitched for the NL West champions.
I have mixed feelings about this signing. On one hand, Wolf appears to have overcome the injuries he sustained between 2004-2007 and has enjoyed solid back to back seasons. On the other hand, I am not sure a 33-year-old pitcher is worth $9 million a season even if he is a lefty.
But the Brewers are in dire need of starting pitching and if he wins 10 to 12 games for them in 2010 he'll have done his job. If the Brewers are to return to their post-season form of 2008 then Yovanni Gallardo has to do better than a 13-12 record even if he does strikeout 200 plus batters. It's also not clear to me why the Brewers declined Braden Looper's option for 2010.
It is instructive to compare the team Wolf is leaving to the team he is joining.
Both the Dodgers and Brewers were roughly equal when it came to offense in 2009. The Dodgers were 4th in the NL in runs scored with 780. The Brewers were 3rd with 785.
However, their pitching is night and day. Brewers pitching surrendered 772 earned runs. They gave up almost as many earned runs as they scored. Only the lowly Washington Nationals pitching staff was more futile giving up 794 earned runs last season. The Dodgers pitching staff, on the other hand, gave up the fewest earned runs in the league with 559.
So even if Randy Wolf does everything that is asked of him, the Brewers pitching staff has their work cut out for them. Although I like that they've also signed veteran reliever LaTroy Hawkins to a two-year deal. He's a dependable middle reliever who can close in a pinch. Hawkins saved 11 games for the Houston Astros in 2009.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Peter Gammons: Goodbye ESPN, Hello MLB Network
A few minutes ago I learned that Peter Gammons is going to be leaving ESPN. He has been with the network for over 20 years. Prior to that, Gammons wrote for both The Boston Globe and Sports Illustrated.
Dave Rosenthal of The Baltimore Sun believes this might mean Gammons will go back to writing more baseball books. But I couldn't help but think that Gammons must be heading to the MLB Network.
And sure enough he is. Gammons has indeed signed on with the MLB Network and MLB.com. He has also signed with NESN to become a studio analyst and reporter on the Boston Red Sox pre-game and post-game shows.
Gammons will be a welcome addition to the MLB Network. Most of their analysts are former players like Mitch Williams, Al Leiter, Harold Reynolds and Barry Larkin. There's nothing wrong with that at all but you need multiple points of view. Of course, they have Bob Costas. While Costas knows the history of the game if you want inside information then Gammons is the go to guy. If he says something then it's pretty much golden. If it wasn't he wouldn't have been inducted into the Hall of Fame four years ago.
Even though the World Series ended more than a month ago I am watching the MLB Network as much now as I did during the season. Peter Gammons just adds another layer to the cake.
Dave Rosenthal of The Baltimore Sun believes this might mean Gammons will go back to writing more baseball books. But I couldn't help but think that Gammons must be heading to the MLB Network.
And sure enough he is. Gammons has indeed signed on with the MLB Network and MLB.com. He has also signed with NESN to become a studio analyst and reporter on the Boston Red Sox pre-game and post-game shows.
Gammons will be a welcome addition to the MLB Network. Most of their analysts are former players like Mitch Williams, Al Leiter, Harold Reynolds and Barry Larkin. There's nothing wrong with that at all but you need multiple points of view. Of course, they have Bob Costas. While Costas knows the history of the game if you want inside information then Gammons is the go to guy. If he says something then it's pretty much golden. If it wasn't he wouldn't have been inducted into the Hall of Fame four years ago.
Even though the World Series ended more than a month ago I am watching the MLB Network as much now as I did during the season. Peter Gammons just adds another layer to the cake.
Brown & Coakley to Face Off in MA Senate Race
Massachusetts State Senator Scott Brown and State Attorney General Martha Coakley won the Republican and Democratic primaries this evening. Brown and Coakley will face each other for the U.S. Senate seat which was vacated upon the death of Ted Kennedy last August. The election will take place on January 19, 2010.
Brown easily defeated perennial Republican candidate Jack E. Robinson winning nearly 90% of the vote. Coakley won 47% of the vote in the Democratic primary easily defeating a field that included Congressman Michael Capuano, City Year founder Alan Khazei and businessman Steve Pagliuca.
I find it amusing people are annoyed with Sarah Palin's voice. Well, get a load of Coakley's cadence.
No Republican has won election to the U.S. Senate from the Bay State since 1972. That was the same year Massachusetts was the lone state carried by George McGovern. Both Michael Graham and Jim Antle have predicted a clear cut victory for Coakley.
They are probably right. But Brown could make a go of it especially if he were to perform well in a debate with Coakley. Or if she were to make a series of big gaffes. As long as Brown is in the race he has a chance to win however remote that might be.
Brown easily defeated perennial Republican candidate Jack E. Robinson winning nearly 90% of the vote. Coakley won 47% of the vote in the Democratic primary easily defeating a field that included Congressman Michael Capuano, City Year founder Alan Khazei and businessman Steve Pagliuca.
I find it amusing people are annoyed with Sarah Palin's voice. Well, get a load of Coakley's cadence.
No Republican has won election to the U.S. Senate from the Bay State since 1972. That was the same year Massachusetts was the lone state carried by George McGovern. Both Michael Graham and Jim Antle have predicted a clear cut victory for Coakley.
They are probably right. But Brown could make a go of it especially if he were to perform well in a debate with Coakley. Or if she were to make a series of big gaffes. As long as Brown is in the race he has a chance to win however remote that might be.
Granderson Joins The Evil Empire
The New York Yankees, Detroit Tigers and Arizona Diamondbacks have pulled off a three way trade that makes centerfielder Curtis Granderson the newest member of The Evil Empire.
Granderson had been a member of the Tigers since the end of the 2003 season. He was a key member of the 2006 AL championship team. While Granderson's average fell to .249 in 2009 he did hit a career high 30 home runs. He also made his first All-Star apperance this past season.
Did I mention that he is exciting to watch in center field?
Should the Yankees re-sign Johnny Damon, will they try to unload Melky Cabrera?
The Tigers get relief pitcher Phil Coke and outfield prospect Austin Jackson from the Yankees. They also get starting pitcher Max Scherzer and relief pitching prospect Daniel Schlereth from Arizona. With Fernando Rodney as a free agent, Schlereth has a good chance of becoming the Tigers closer in 2010. Jackson will have the unenviable task of filling Granderson's shoes in Comerica Park's cavernous center field.
As for the D'Backs, they get Tigers starting pitcher Edwin Jackson and one time Yankee pitching prospect Ian Kennedy. I find it interesting that the Tigers were eager to get rid of Jackson despite winning 13 games for them in 2009. But the D'Backs could have an interesting rotation of Jackson, Kennedy, Danny Haren and, dare I say, a healthy Brandon Webb.
Meanwhile, Granderson can look forward to being wildly booed at both Comerica and Fenway Park next season.
Granderson had been a member of the Tigers since the end of the 2003 season. He was a key member of the 2006 AL championship team. While Granderson's average fell to .249 in 2009 he did hit a career high 30 home runs. He also made his first All-Star apperance this past season.
Did I mention that he is exciting to watch in center field?
Should the Yankees re-sign Johnny Damon, will they try to unload Melky Cabrera?
The Tigers get relief pitcher Phil Coke and outfield prospect Austin Jackson from the Yankees. They also get starting pitcher Max Scherzer and relief pitching prospect Daniel Schlereth from Arizona. With Fernando Rodney as a free agent, Schlereth has a good chance of becoming the Tigers closer in 2010. Jackson will have the unenviable task of filling Granderson's shoes in Comerica Park's cavernous center field.
As for the D'Backs, they get Tigers starting pitcher Edwin Jackson and one time Yankee pitching prospect Ian Kennedy. I find it interesting that the Tigers were eager to get rid of Jackson despite winning 13 games for them in 2009. But the D'Backs could have an interesting rotation of Jackson, Kennedy, Danny Haren and, dare I say, a healthy Brandon Webb.
Meanwhile, Granderson can look forward to being wildly booed at both Comerica and Fenway Park next season.
EU Attempts to Recognize East Jerusalem as Palestinian Capital
Europe's foreign ministers attempted to pass a resolution that would recognize East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state.
This angered Israel sufficiently enough that the EU ministers backed down and reverted to their current stance that the status of Jerusalem be negotiated between Israel and the Palestinians.
It is worth noting that the resolution was drafted by Sweden. Relations between Israel and Sweden have soured considerably in 2009. First, there was the decision last March by the mayor of Malmo to bar spectators from the Davis Cup semi-final match between Israel and Sweden. This was done in protest of Israel's defensive operations into Gaza in December 2008 and January 2009.
Then there was the accusation leveled in a Swedish newspaper that IDF soldiers were harvesting the organs of Palestinians. The Swedish government refused to condemn the article even though it had expressed displeasure with Denmark when the Muslim cartoons were printed in 2006.
So it comes as little surprise that a resolution calling for Jerusalem to be divided would come from Sweden. But, of course, these anti-Israel attitudes are hardly confined to Sweden. Jean Asselborn, Luxembourg's Minister of Foreign Affairs, remarked:
I don't really understand why Israel does not accept that Palestine consists of the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem. The Israelis have a right to live in Israel; the Palestinians have a right to live in Palestine.
Except that the Palestinians don't recognize Israel in any way, shape or form. Isn't Asselborn familiar with "from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free"?
This angered Israel sufficiently enough that the EU ministers backed down and reverted to their current stance that the status of Jerusalem be negotiated between Israel and the Palestinians.
It is worth noting that the resolution was drafted by Sweden. Relations between Israel and Sweden have soured considerably in 2009. First, there was the decision last March by the mayor of Malmo to bar spectators from the Davis Cup semi-final match between Israel and Sweden. This was done in protest of Israel's defensive operations into Gaza in December 2008 and January 2009.
Then there was the accusation leveled in a Swedish newspaper that IDF soldiers were harvesting the organs of Palestinians. The Swedish government refused to condemn the article even though it had expressed displeasure with Denmark when the Muslim cartoons were printed in 2006.
So it comes as little surprise that a resolution calling for Jerusalem to be divided would come from Sweden. But, of course, these anti-Israel attitudes are hardly confined to Sweden. Jean Asselborn, Luxembourg's Minister of Foreign Affairs, remarked:
I don't really understand why Israel does not accept that Palestine consists of the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem. The Israelis have a right to live in Israel; the Palestinians have a right to live in Palestine.
Except that the Palestinians don't recognize Israel in any way, shape or form. Isn't Asselborn familiar with "from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free"?
Cardinals Spend $7.5 Million on Penny
Brad Penny has signed a one-year contract with the St. Louis Cardinals worth $7.5 million. With incentives, Penny could make up to $9 million in 2010.
Penny split the 2009 season with the Boston Red Sox and the San Francisco Giants. His combined numbers were 11-9 with a 4.88 ERA. Penny was picked up by the Giants on August 31st after he was released by the Red Sox. He pitched much more effectively with the Giants winning four of his five decisions with an ERA of 2.59.
Look for Penny to replace Joel Pineiro as the Cards number three starter behind Cy Young candidates Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. If Carpenter can stay healthy that could be a very formidable starting three.
Penny split the 2009 season with the Boston Red Sox and the San Francisco Giants. His combined numbers were 11-9 with a 4.88 ERA. Penny was picked up by the Giants on August 31st after he was released by the Red Sox. He pitched much more effectively with the Giants winning four of his five decisions with an ERA of 2.59.
Look for Penny to replace Joel Pineiro as the Cards number three starter behind Cy Young candidates Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. If Carpenter can stay healthy that could be a very formidable starting three.
Pudge Goes to Washington
Hall of Fame bound catcher Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez has signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the Washington Nationals.
Pudge split the 2008 season with the Houston Astros and the Texas Rangers. Of course, Pudge began his storied career with the Rangers in 1991. There have also been stops with the Florida Marlins, the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees. Pudge has been named to 14 All-Star teams, won 13 Gold Gloves, won the AL MVP in 1999, won a World Series with the Marlins in 2003 and played the AL champion Tigers in 2006.
But his productivity both offensively and defensively has steeply declined over the past couple of seasons. He just turned 38 last month.
Adam Bernacchio of The Bleacher Report asks, "Does Scott Boras (Rodriguez’s agent) have naked pictures of Nationals’ GM Mike Rizzo’s wife? He must have because that is the only explanation I can think of for such a move."
I'm not sure I would go that far out on a limb. Pudge could be helpful to some of the Nats young pitchers as well as the Nats other catcher, Jesus Flores. I could see a one year contract for that purpose but two is taking a pretty big risk.
Couple this with their acquisition of relief pitcher Brian Bruney from the Yankees for their number one pick in the Rule 5 Draft and I think we have the makings of another very long year in D.C. Bruney is injury prone and if it becomes an issue in 2010 then it defeats the whole purpose of releasing Saul Rivera. Could Nats manager Jim Riggleman be having second thoughts?
Pudge split the 2008 season with the Houston Astros and the Texas Rangers. Of course, Pudge began his storied career with the Rangers in 1991. There have also been stops with the Florida Marlins, the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees. Pudge has been named to 14 All-Star teams, won 13 Gold Gloves, won the AL MVP in 1999, won a World Series with the Marlins in 2003 and played the AL champion Tigers in 2006.
But his productivity both offensively and defensively has steeply declined over the past couple of seasons. He just turned 38 last month.
Adam Bernacchio of The Bleacher Report asks, "Does Scott Boras (Rodriguez’s agent) have naked pictures of Nationals’ GM Mike Rizzo’s wife? He must have because that is the only explanation I can think of for such a move."
I'm not sure I would go that far out on a limb. Pudge could be helpful to some of the Nats young pitchers as well as the Nats other catcher, Jesus Flores. I could see a one year contract for that purpose but two is taking a pretty big risk.
Couple this with their acquisition of relief pitcher Brian Bruney from the Yankees for their number one pick in the Rule 5 Draft and I think we have the makings of another very long year in D.C. Bruney is injury prone and if it becomes an issue in 2010 then it defeats the whole purpose of releasing Saul Rivera. Could Nats manager Jim Riggleman be having second thoughts?
Obama Approval @ 47% But Don't Get Hysterical
In office less than a year, President Obama's approval rating has fallen to 47% according to the latest Gallup Poll.
It represents the lowest poll number for any President at this point during his term.
But let's not get hysterical about it.
George H.W. Bush had an approval rating of 71% at this point in his Presidency. Fat lot of good it did him.
Obama's numbers are comparable to Bill Clinton (52%), Harry Truman and Ronald Reagan (both at 49%). None of them were one term wonders.
Reagan's poll numbers are particularly instructive given that our economic woes are comparable to the ones he inherited when taking office in 1981. In some respects, it was worse. There was both double digit unemployment and inflation. Yet by 1984, it was Morning Again in America. We are a long way from 2012 and if the economy is tangibly better by that time it will be difficult for anyone to dislodge Obama.
The key to Obama's re-election is whether there's unity in the Democratic Party. If no one challenges him for the nomination in 2012 he is almost assured a second term. But if someone challenges him then he is in trouble. Even if Obama turns back the challenge it would likely cripple him during the election as was the case with Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter and the aforementioned George H.W. Bush.
If Obama is challenged it would most likely be over Afghanistan. In which case I would keep an eye out for Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold.
It represents the lowest poll number for any President at this point during his term.
But let's not get hysterical about it.
George H.W. Bush had an approval rating of 71% at this point in his Presidency. Fat lot of good it did him.
Obama's numbers are comparable to Bill Clinton (52%), Harry Truman and Ronald Reagan (both at 49%). None of them were one term wonders.
Reagan's poll numbers are particularly instructive given that our economic woes are comparable to the ones he inherited when taking office in 1981. In some respects, it was worse. There was both double digit unemployment and inflation. Yet by 1984, it was Morning Again in America. We are a long way from 2012 and if the economy is tangibly better by that time it will be difficult for anyone to dislodge Obama.
The key to Obama's re-election is whether there's unity in the Democratic Party. If no one challenges him for the nomination in 2012 he is almost assured a second term. But if someone challenges him then he is in trouble. Even if Obama turns back the challenge it would likely cripple him during the election as was the case with Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter and the aforementioned George H.W. Bush.
If Obama is challenged it would most likely be over Afghanistan. In which case I would keep an eye out for Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Obama Needs to Rebuke Reid
Is this the best Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid can do?
On the floor of the Senate, Reid equated opposition to Obamacare as the moral equivalent of opposing the abolition of slavery. For good measure he also added it was akin to opposing suffrage and the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
If President Obama wants any kind of health care reform to pass the Senate he needs to publicly rebuke Reid. Not only must Obama rebuke Reid but he must also tell his supporters to stop calling Republicans and conservatives racist over legitimate differences of opinion.
Lumping in your political opponents with vile racists is not only stupid but it is a sure fire way to get nothing accomplished.
On the floor of the Senate, Reid equated opposition to Obamacare as the moral equivalent of opposing the abolition of slavery. For good measure he also added it was akin to opposing suffrage and the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
If President Obama wants any kind of health care reform to pass the Senate he needs to publicly rebuke Reid. Not only must Obama rebuke Reid but he must also tell his supporters to stop calling Republicans and conservatives racist over legitimate differences of opinion.
Lumping in your political opponents with vile racists is not only stupid but it is a sure fire way to get nothing accomplished.
Harvey & Herzog Going to Cooperstown
The National Baseball Hall of Fame Veterans Committee has voted NL umpire Doug Harvey and manager Whitey Herzog into the Hall of Fame class of 2010. They will be formally inducted next July.
Harvey umpired in the NL from 1962 to 1992. He was considered not only the best umpire of his era but many consider him the best umpire to have ever officiated a major league game.
I remember he would occasionally give umpiring tips on NBC's Game of the Week.
Herzog often said, "Baseball's been very good to me since I quit trying to play it." Indeed, after originally being signed by the New York Yankees, Herzog played eight undistinguished seasons in the big leagues with the Washington Senators, Kansas City A's, Baltimore Orioles and the Detroit Tigers. He retired as a player after the 1963 season. He would return to the Athletics as a scout and coach before joining the New York Mets organization in 1966 first as a coach and later as the director of player development. He played a role in drafting the likes of Tom Seaver and Gerry Gentry. Herzog was with the Mets when they won their first World Series in 1969.
But it is as a manager where Herzog made his greatest contribution. His managerial debut began inauspiciously in 1973 with the Texas Rangers. The Rangers went 47-91 under Herzog before he was unceremoniously fired late in the season and replaced by Billy Martin who would nearly guide them to the AL West Division the following year. Herzog spent 1974 on the coaching staff of the California Angels which included a four game stint as interim manager at the end of the season.
In 1975, Herzog got his second chance as a major league manager in Kansas City, a city familiar to him. By this time, the Athletics had moved to Oakland and the Royals were the new game in town. He would replace Jack McKeon in mid-season. The Royals would go 41-25 and finish a strong second place to the defending three time World Series champion Oakland A's. Herzog then guided the Royals to three consecutive AL West Division titles. Unfortunately, the Royals failed to get past the Yankees in three consecutive ALCS contests. When the Royals did finally best the Yankees in the 1980 ALCS, Jim Frey would be the Royals skipper.
Herzog moved onto the St. Louis Cardinals where he was hired as their new General Manager. However, Herzog temporarily added manager to his duties when he replaced Ken Boyer early in 1980. He would appoint Red Schoendienst, the man who guided the Cardinals to World Series titles in 1964 and 1967, as manager for the rest of the season. But Herzog resumed double duty the following season.
In 1982, Herzog led the Cardinals to their first World Series title since 1967. After 1982, Herzog stepped down as GM to concentrate on managerial duties full time. He also guided them to two NL championships in 1985 and 1987.
They played what was known as Whitey Ball which emphasized pitching, speed and defense in a lineup that had little power. In 1982, the Cardinals hit only 67 home runs as a team. George Hendrick led the team with 19 home runs. The Milwaukee Brewers, their World Series opponents, hit 216 home runs as a team. They had five players on the team with 20 or more home runs. Despite facing a team with more than three times as many home runs the Cardinals still won the Series in seven games. Now that's managing your ballclub.
Herzog left the managerial reins to Schoendienst during the 1990 season who would in turn hand them over to another former Cardinal, Joe Torre. He would spend his final years in baseball in various posts with the California Angels including as GM during the 1993 and 1994 seasons before retiring for good. He was twice considered by the Boston Red Sox for managerial vacancies prior to the 1997 and 2004 seasons but declined interest. Now Whitey at Fenway would have been interesting.
Harvey umpired in the NL from 1962 to 1992. He was considered not only the best umpire of his era but many consider him the best umpire to have ever officiated a major league game.
I remember he would occasionally give umpiring tips on NBC's Game of the Week.
Herzog often said, "Baseball's been very good to me since I quit trying to play it." Indeed, after originally being signed by the New York Yankees, Herzog played eight undistinguished seasons in the big leagues with the Washington Senators, Kansas City A's, Baltimore Orioles and the Detroit Tigers. He retired as a player after the 1963 season. He would return to the Athletics as a scout and coach before joining the New York Mets organization in 1966 first as a coach and later as the director of player development. He played a role in drafting the likes of Tom Seaver and Gerry Gentry. Herzog was with the Mets when they won their first World Series in 1969.
But it is as a manager where Herzog made his greatest contribution. His managerial debut began inauspiciously in 1973 with the Texas Rangers. The Rangers went 47-91 under Herzog before he was unceremoniously fired late in the season and replaced by Billy Martin who would nearly guide them to the AL West Division the following year. Herzog spent 1974 on the coaching staff of the California Angels which included a four game stint as interim manager at the end of the season.
In 1975, Herzog got his second chance as a major league manager in Kansas City, a city familiar to him. By this time, the Athletics had moved to Oakland and the Royals were the new game in town. He would replace Jack McKeon in mid-season. The Royals would go 41-25 and finish a strong second place to the defending three time World Series champion Oakland A's. Herzog then guided the Royals to three consecutive AL West Division titles. Unfortunately, the Royals failed to get past the Yankees in three consecutive ALCS contests. When the Royals did finally best the Yankees in the 1980 ALCS, Jim Frey would be the Royals skipper.
Herzog moved onto the St. Louis Cardinals where he was hired as their new General Manager. However, Herzog temporarily added manager to his duties when he replaced Ken Boyer early in 1980. He would appoint Red Schoendienst, the man who guided the Cardinals to World Series titles in 1964 and 1967, as manager for the rest of the season. But Herzog resumed double duty the following season.
In 1982, Herzog led the Cardinals to their first World Series title since 1967. After 1982, Herzog stepped down as GM to concentrate on managerial duties full time. He also guided them to two NL championships in 1985 and 1987.
They played what was known as Whitey Ball which emphasized pitching, speed and defense in a lineup that had little power. In 1982, the Cardinals hit only 67 home runs as a team. George Hendrick led the team with 19 home runs. The Milwaukee Brewers, their World Series opponents, hit 216 home runs as a team. They had five players on the team with 20 or more home runs. Despite facing a team with more than three times as many home runs the Cardinals still won the Series in seven games. Now that's managing your ballclub.
Herzog left the managerial reins to Schoendienst during the 1990 season who would in turn hand them over to another former Cardinal, Joe Torre. He would spend his final years in baseball in various posts with the California Angels including as GM during the 1993 and 1994 seasons before retiring for good. He was twice considered by the Boston Red Sox for managerial vacancies prior to the 1997 and 2004 seasons but declined interest. Now Whitey at Fenway would have been interesting.
When in Doubt Accuse Palin of Racism
The large, adoring crowds that have received Sarah Palin are scaring The Left.
Sarah Palin is a threat to the presidency of Barack Obama.
So when in doubt liberals revert to their default position. Accuse her of racism.
Earl Ofari Hutchinson is leading the charge in an absurd article titled, "Palin's Uncomfortable Racism." He begins by focusing his attention on the latest Palin rumor du jour.
Palin's father, Chuck Heath, is alleged to have said that she left school in Hawaii because she was uncomfortable around Asians and Pacific Islanders.
Color me skeptical. First of all, I find it hard to believe he said it. I also find it hard to believe because I do not think she feels that way. If she does harbor those feelings why should she marry a man who is part Alaska Native? If anyone bothers to read Going Rogue they will find she admires the Native culture of Alaska.
Hutchinson then takes Palin to task for not having African-Americans, Asians and Hispanics on her staff and in state government. Interesting how Hutchinson omits Alaskan Natives from his grievance list. I'm not sure how that would make any difference with the Hutchinsons of the world. Ronald Reagan embarked on an aggressive program of hiring African Americans to California's civil service when he was Governor. It didn't exactly stop African-American leaders and white liberals from accusing him of racism when he ran for President and during his two terms in office.
One must also consider Hutchinson's appalling grasp of history:
During the past decade, a parade of Republican state and local officials, conservative talk show jocks and even some Republican bigwigs have made foot-in-the-mouth racist cracks. Their response when called on the carpet has always been the same. They make a duck-and dodge denial, claim that they were misquoted or issue a weak, halfhearted apology. And each time the response from top Republicans is either silence, or, if the firestorm is great enough, to give the offender a much-delayed, mild verbal hand-slap.
Where was Hutchinson during the Trent Lott controversy? Lott was rebuked by President Bush over his comments made at Strom Thurmond's birthday party that appeared to be sympathetic towards segregation. Once that happened, Lott resigned as incoming Senate Majority Leader and his political career was effectively over. But why let the facts get in the way of a good argument?
Hutchinson concludes with this pearl:
Palin again fanned the latent bigotry among her fans with her Going Rogue book tour. She flatly said that she'd avoid the big city liberal media hot beds and tour in mostly small and mid sized towns in the Heartland states. This was a not so subtle code guarantee that her audience would be overwhelmingly white, working class, and conservative. That's exactly the audience she got. It's an audience that won't make her uncomfortable.
Let's say that Palin's audience is overwhelmingly white, working class and conservative. Doesn't that make Hutchinson guilty of judging people by the color of their skin and not the content of their character? Hutchinson has gone a long way in turning liberal tolerance into an oxymoron.
Sarah Palin is a threat to the presidency of Barack Obama.
So when in doubt liberals revert to their default position. Accuse her of racism.
Earl Ofari Hutchinson is leading the charge in an absurd article titled, "Palin's Uncomfortable Racism." He begins by focusing his attention on the latest Palin rumor du jour.
Palin's father, Chuck Heath, is alleged to have said that she left school in Hawaii because she was uncomfortable around Asians and Pacific Islanders.
Color me skeptical. First of all, I find it hard to believe he said it. I also find it hard to believe because I do not think she feels that way. If she does harbor those feelings why should she marry a man who is part Alaska Native? If anyone bothers to read Going Rogue they will find she admires the Native culture of Alaska.
Hutchinson then takes Palin to task for not having African-Americans, Asians and Hispanics on her staff and in state government. Interesting how Hutchinson omits Alaskan Natives from his grievance list. I'm not sure how that would make any difference with the Hutchinsons of the world. Ronald Reagan embarked on an aggressive program of hiring African Americans to California's civil service when he was Governor. It didn't exactly stop African-American leaders and white liberals from accusing him of racism when he ran for President and during his two terms in office.
One must also consider Hutchinson's appalling grasp of history:
During the past decade, a parade of Republican state and local officials, conservative talk show jocks and even some Republican bigwigs have made foot-in-the-mouth racist cracks. Their response when called on the carpet has always been the same. They make a duck-and dodge denial, claim that they were misquoted or issue a weak, halfhearted apology. And each time the response from top Republicans is either silence, or, if the firestorm is great enough, to give the offender a much-delayed, mild verbal hand-slap.
Where was Hutchinson during the Trent Lott controversy? Lott was rebuked by President Bush over his comments made at Strom Thurmond's birthday party that appeared to be sympathetic towards segregation. Once that happened, Lott resigned as incoming Senate Majority Leader and his political career was effectively over. But why let the facts get in the way of a good argument?
Hutchinson concludes with this pearl:
Palin again fanned the latent bigotry among her fans with her Going Rogue book tour. She flatly said that she'd avoid the big city liberal media hot beds and tour in mostly small and mid sized towns in the Heartland states. This was a not so subtle code guarantee that her audience would be overwhelmingly white, working class, and conservative. That's exactly the audience she got. It's an audience that won't make her uncomfortable.
Let's say that Palin's audience is overwhelmingly white, working class and conservative. Doesn't that make Hutchinson guilty of judging people by the color of their skin and not the content of their character? Hutchinson has gone a long way in turning liberal tolerance into an oxymoron.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Figgins Bolts to AL West Rival Mariners
Chone Figgins has signed a four-year, $36 million contract with the Seattle Mariners pending a physical. There is also a club option for the 2014 season.
Figgins has played his entire 8-year MLB career with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He collected a World Series rings with the Angels during his rookie season in 2002.
Early in his career, Figgins was something of a superutility player. But since 2007, Figgins has been the Angels everyday third baseman. In 2009, Figgins led the AL in walks with 101, made his first appearance in an All-Star Game and finished in the top ten in AL MVP balloting. He enters the 2010 season with a .291 lifetime batting average and 280 career stolen bases.
Figgins has hit in the leadoff spot most of his career. But with the Mariners, he will hit in the number two spot behind Ichiro Suzuki. Ichiro and Figgins hitting one and two will give AL pitchers and their managers fits. Between the two of them they stole 68 bases last season. Figgins will also certainly be an improvement over Adrian Beltre at third base.
Yes, Beltre did win two Gold Gloves and hit over 100 home runs in his five seasons with the Mariners. But the Mariners never got the Beltre that hit .334 with 48 home runs and 121 RBI in 2004 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Nor did the Mariners reach the post-season with Beltre on the roster. Of course, that can't be laid entirely at the feet of Beltre. But Beltre has gone as far as he can go in Seattle.
Let us also consider that Figgins has reached the post-season in six of his eight big league campaigns. That's the kind of experience and leadership the Mariners will need if they are to compete in the AL West in 2010.
Figgins has played his entire 8-year MLB career with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He collected a World Series rings with the Angels during his rookie season in 2002.
Early in his career, Figgins was something of a superutility player. But since 2007, Figgins has been the Angels everyday third baseman. In 2009, Figgins led the AL in walks with 101, made his first appearance in an All-Star Game and finished in the top ten in AL MVP balloting. He enters the 2010 season with a .291 lifetime batting average and 280 career stolen bases.
Figgins has hit in the leadoff spot most of his career. But with the Mariners, he will hit in the number two spot behind Ichiro Suzuki. Ichiro and Figgins hitting one and two will give AL pitchers and their managers fits. Between the two of them they stole 68 bases last season. Figgins will also certainly be an improvement over Adrian Beltre at third base.
Yes, Beltre did win two Gold Gloves and hit over 100 home runs in his five seasons with the Mariners. But the Mariners never got the Beltre that hit .334 with 48 home runs and 121 RBI in 2004 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Nor did the Mariners reach the post-season with Beltre on the roster. Of course, that can't be laid entirely at the feet of Beltre. But Beltre has gone as far as he can go in Seattle.
Let us also consider that Figgins has reached the post-season in six of his eight big league campaigns. That's the kind of experience and leadership the Mariners will need if they are to compete in the AL West in 2010.
Muslim Student Charged With Killing Professor
On Friday, Binghamton University Professor Emeritus Richard Antoun was stabbed to death in his office.
A Muslim graduate student from Saudi Arabia named Abdulsalam al-Zahrani has been charged with murder.
Evidently, Antoun was scheduled to review al-Zahrani's graduate thesis.
Gerald Mollen, the DA of Broome County, has stated the attack was neither motivated by religion or ethnicity.
So what was motivated al-Zahrani to kill a 77-year-old academic? Antoun was an anthropologist who studied Islamic law amongst other things. If Antoun was killed as he was going to review al-Zahrani's graduate thesis it logically begs the question as to what his thesis was about.
Of course, it is entirely possible the killing was as a result of something else altogether. The authorities always hold back information from the public. The killer and the victim knew each other and there could be something in the nature of the relationship outside of either academia or religion that could have also been a factor.
But given the fact the Antoun was killed in his office leads me back to the thesis. I cannot help but think al-Zahrani's thesis was connected to Islam in some way. I also cannot help but think that Antoun was criticial of al-Zahrani's thesis. Consequently, al-Zahrani could not take Antoun's criticism or thought Antoun had insulted Mohammed and responded by killing him.
Antoun's friends and colleagues describe him as a nice guy without an enemy in the world. He also defended the Muslim community in the wake of the attacks of September 11, 2001. In one interview, Antoun said, "Muslims in general get portrayed in a bad light."
Like Richard Antoun, Daniel Pearl was a Jew who sought out greater cross cultural understanding from the Muslim world. As we all know, his efforts towards achieving tolerance were not reciprocated.
A Muslim graduate student from Saudi Arabia named Abdulsalam al-Zahrani has been charged with murder.
Evidently, Antoun was scheduled to review al-Zahrani's graduate thesis.
Gerald Mollen, the DA of Broome County, has stated the attack was neither motivated by religion or ethnicity.
So what was motivated al-Zahrani to kill a 77-year-old academic? Antoun was an anthropologist who studied Islamic law amongst other things. If Antoun was killed as he was going to review al-Zahrani's graduate thesis it logically begs the question as to what his thesis was about.
Of course, it is entirely possible the killing was as a result of something else altogether. The authorities always hold back information from the public. The killer and the victim knew each other and there could be something in the nature of the relationship outside of either academia or religion that could have also been a factor.
But given the fact the Antoun was killed in his office leads me back to the thesis. I cannot help but think al-Zahrani's thesis was connected to Islam in some way. I also cannot help but think that Antoun was criticial of al-Zahrani's thesis. Consequently, al-Zahrani could not take Antoun's criticism or thought Antoun had insulted Mohammed and responded by killing him.
Antoun's friends and colleagues describe him as a nice guy without an enemy in the world. He also defended the Muslim community in the wake of the attacks of September 11, 2001. In one interview, Antoun said, "Muslims in general get portrayed in a bad light."
Like Richard Antoun, Daniel Pearl was a Jew who sought out greater cross cultural understanding from the Muslim world. As we all know, his efforts towards achieving tolerance were not reciprocated.
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