Hello,
The Dodgers finally finished their anti-climactic regular season with their third and last game in this series against the Rockies Sunday. Colorado beat LA 2-1 in a game that I was surprised to see people actually showed up to. LA finished 92-70 and won the NL West by 11 games over the Diamondbacks.
It was Todd Helton's final game as a Rockie and Dodgers fans gave him a nice ovation. Nice touch fellow Dodgers fans.
It was also announced that the injury prone, at least this season, Matt Kemp will be shut down for the rest of the season. He'll miss the entire postseason "because of swelling in a bone of his broken ankle". (Thanks to espn.com.) I have to admit that this doesn't surprise me a whole lot, in fact I wouldn't be surprised to see another Dodger miss the rest of the season as well. The Dodgers seemed to have been very fragile this season.
People who have stumbled across this blog before know that I cheer for 7 MLB teams. My favorite team is and always will be the LA Dodgers. But over the years I added the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Atlanta Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates, Baltimore Orioles and the Oakland A's.
The problem with having multiple teams is that sometimes they play each other and even worse they sometimes play each other in the playoffs. That's what's happening starting Thursday night. LA and Atlanta will open the best-of-5 NLDS Thursday night in Atlanta. The scheduled pitching matchup is Clayton Kershaw, who could win the NL Cy Young award this year. The Braves will be sending Kris Medlen to the mound, he also has had a good year.
Both St. Louis and Atlanta won on Sunday, which meant St. Louis finished with the best record in the NL. That means they'll play the winner of the Pittsburgh-Cincinnati Wild Card game in the other NLDS. That one game Wild Card game occurs Tuesday night in Pittsburgh. You can believe PNC Park will be rocking.
The Red Sox finished 97-65 and will host all series up to and including the World Series in the 2013 MLB playoffs.
On Sunday if Cleveland won, they were guaranteed a spot in the playoffs. They did win, closing out the season on a 10 win streak. That's very impressive. Congrats to Terry Francona and the Cleveland Indians. The Indians will play the winner of Monday's Texas-Tampa Bay tie breaking game, that game is scheduled to be played tonight about 8:07 EST.
The one game AL Wild Card game will be at an unannounced time, we do know it will be in Cleveland. Let the "Major League" and Bob Uecker jokes begin.
On to my teams that didn't make the playoffs, the Cubs finished the season with a dismal 66-96 record. They finished last place in the NL Central and 31 games behind the Cardinals.
Meanwhile the Orioles started out the season strong, but couldn't maintain that strong pace. They finish the season 85-77 and tied with the Yankees for third place in the AL East. Both teams finish 12 games behind the first place Red Sox. Orioles slugger Chris Davis had a good individual season. He finished the season with the most homers (53) and RBIs (138) in all of MLB.
themusicaddict
Monday, September 30, 2013
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Dodgers Daily: September 28th, 2013: Dodgers Lose Yawner, Cleveland's Incredible Run
Hello,
I'm writing this blog on Sunday, September 29th. All I can say is how glad I am that the regular season is finally over today. MLB's regular season is frankly way too long. Six months of regular season games is too long of a buildup for only 3 weeks of playoffs. I know it's a great thing for a team to reach the playoffs. It's truly something for a team to celebrate and build on. However playing 162 regular season games and then lose in a one game Wild Card playoff is the very definition of anticlimactic. I support both divisional series going to 7 games. Let's get more bang for our buck.
On to Saturday's games, the Dodgers lost 1-0 in their second to last regular season game. The Dodgers only had 3 hits as Yasiel Puig and Carl Crawford rested this game. Andre Ethier also missed the game due to injury, but I have a feeling that's more about rest as well. Zack Greinke had a perfectly good outing, only giving up 4 hits and 1 run in 6 innings. He improves to 15-4 and and also has a very good 2.63 ERA.
My favorite result from Saturday was the Pirates 8-3 victory over the Reds. With that win the Pirates clinch hosting the one game NL Wild Card. After hitting 6 home runs on Friday, the Pirates added 6 more home runs on Saturday. Pedro Alvarez had his 36th homer of the season, he also has exactly 100 RBIs now. Although his .233 batting average is a bit of a concern. Andrew McCutchen had his 21st homer and has 84 RBIs this season. His .317 batting average makes me feel pretty good.
That one game Wild Card game will be Tuesday night at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, its scheduled to be at 8:07 EST. The game will be on TBS. Go Pirates!
Also on Saturday the Cardinals won their 5th straight game, meanwhile the Braves lost. The Cardinals lead the Braves by 1 game for the best record in the NL. If Atlanta wins Sunday and St. Louis loses, the Braves will finish with the NL's # 1 seed.
Finally in the AL Wild Card, we have seen one of the most impressive and clutch stretch runs ever. On Saturday the Indians won their 9th straight game and now lead the AL Wild Card race. Meanwhile the Rays and the Rangers are tied for the second Wild Card spot. It all comes down to Sunday. Texas has won 6 straight games, we'll find out Sunday if that's too little too late.
Although Cleveland isn't one of my teams, temporarily I'm cheering for them.
themusicaddict
I'm writing this blog on Sunday, September 29th. All I can say is how glad I am that the regular season is finally over today. MLB's regular season is frankly way too long. Six months of regular season games is too long of a buildup for only 3 weeks of playoffs. I know it's a great thing for a team to reach the playoffs. It's truly something for a team to celebrate and build on. However playing 162 regular season games and then lose in a one game Wild Card playoff is the very definition of anticlimactic. I support both divisional series going to 7 games. Let's get more bang for our buck.
On to Saturday's games, the Dodgers lost 1-0 in their second to last regular season game. The Dodgers only had 3 hits as Yasiel Puig and Carl Crawford rested this game. Andre Ethier also missed the game due to injury, but I have a feeling that's more about rest as well. Zack Greinke had a perfectly good outing, only giving up 4 hits and 1 run in 6 innings. He improves to 15-4 and and also has a very good 2.63 ERA.
My favorite result from Saturday was the Pirates 8-3 victory over the Reds. With that win the Pirates clinch hosting the one game NL Wild Card. After hitting 6 home runs on Friday, the Pirates added 6 more home runs on Saturday. Pedro Alvarez had his 36th homer of the season, he also has exactly 100 RBIs now. Although his .233 batting average is a bit of a concern. Andrew McCutchen had his 21st homer and has 84 RBIs this season. His .317 batting average makes me feel pretty good.
That one game Wild Card game will be Tuesday night at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, its scheduled to be at 8:07 EST. The game will be on TBS. Go Pirates!
Also on Saturday the Cardinals won their 5th straight game, meanwhile the Braves lost. The Cardinals lead the Braves by 1 game for the best record in the NL. If Atlanta wins Sunday and St. Louis loses, the Braves will finish with the NL's # 1 seed.
Finally in the AL Wild Card, we have seen one of the most impressive and clutch stretch runs ever. On Saturday the Indians won their 9th straight game and now lead the AL Wild Card race. Meanwhile the Rays and the Rangers are tied for the second Wild Card spot. It all comes down to Sunday. Texas has won 6 straight games, we'll find out Sunday if that's too little too late.
Although Cleveland isn't one of my teams, temporarily I'm cheering for them.
themusicaddict
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Dodgers Daily: September 27th, 2013, Dodgers Win Big, Pirates Close To Hosting Wild Card Game
Hello,
I'm sure that Clayton Kershaw was surprised that the Dodgers offense scored 11 runs in a game that he started. LA coasted to a 11-0 win as Kershaw only pitched 6 innings. In another excellent outing he only gave up 4 hits and no runs. He improves to 16-9 this season and lowered his ERA to an unbelievable 1.83. This was a good decent length pitching outing for Kershaw. He'll probably see his next pitching start in the first or second game of the playoffs!
It was good to see the recently slumbering Dodgers offense to finally wake up. Adrian Gonzalez hit his 22nd homer of the season, which also gave him his 100th RBI. With all the injuries of Dodgers players, Gonzalez was the only Dodger that could possibly finish with 100 RBIs this season. Carl Crawford hit his 6th homer of the season and now has 31 RBIs. Finally A.J. Ellis hit his 10th homer of the season, giving him 52 RBIs this season.
Meanwhile in Cincinnati, iIn the first game of the big Pirates-Reds 3 game series the Pirates won 4-1. They were powered by A.J. Burnett's strong outing. He pitched 8 innings, only allowing 5 hits and 1 run. He also struck out 6 Reds as his record improves to 10-11. He was also able to lower his ERA to 3.30. Recently added Pirate Marlon Byrd had the big offensive game, he was 3 for 4, and is hitting .288 this season. He had a single in the third inning that drove in Andrew McCutchen and Starling Marte. Then later when Pedro Alvarez hit his 35th homer of the season he also drove in Byrd. Alvarez now has 99 RBIs on the season.
The Pirates lead the Reds by 2 games, with two games left on the season. One more win and the Pirates will host Tuesday night's NL Wild Card playoff game. (As I write this blog, the Pirates already won the second game in the series as they were powered by 6 homers. I know what I'll be watching Tuesday night, go Pirates!)
St. Louis and Atlanta both won, remaining tied for the NL's best record, with the Braves holding the tie breaker. The Cardinals clinched the NL Central title. That was a bit of a shock to me as I had already thought they had clinched the NL Central.
In the AL Wild Card the Indians continued their incredible surge by winning their 8th straight game. Meanwhile the Rays had their 7 game winning streak broken, which means they are tied for first place in the AL Wild Card race. The Rangers have broken out of choke mode and won their fifth consecutive game, they trail the previously mentioned teams by 1 game. This race could go down to the final day, it should be fun.
themusicaddict
I'm sure that Clayton Kershaw was surprised that the Dodgers offense scored 11 runs in a game that he started. LA coasted to a 11-0 win as Kershaw only pitched 6 innings. In another excellent outing he only gave up 4 hits and no runs. He improves to 16-9 this season and lowered his ERA to an unbelievable 1.83. This was a good decent length pitching outing for Kershaw. He'll probably see his next pitching start in the first or second game of the playoffs!
It was good to see the recently slumbering Dodgers offense to finally wake up. Adrian Gonzalez hit his 22nd homer of the season, which also gave him his 100th RBI. With all the injuries of Dodgers players, Gonzalez was the only Dodger that could possibly finish with 100 RBIs this season. Carl Crawford hit his 6th homer of the season and now has 31 RBIs. Finally A.J. Ellis hit his 10th homer of the season, giving him 52 RBIs this season.
Meanwhile in Cincinnati, iIn the first game of the big Pirates-Reds 3 game series the Pirates won 4-1. They were powered by A.J. Burnett's strong outing. He pitched 8 innings, only allowing 5 hits and 1 run. He also struck out 6 Reds as his record improves to 10-11. He was also able to lower his ERA to 3.30. Recently added Pirate Marlon Byrd had the big offensive game, he was 3 for 4, and is hitting .288 this season. He had a single in the third inning that drove in Andrew McCutchen and Starling Marte. Then later when Pedro Alvarez hit his 35th homer of the season he also drove in Byrd. Alvarez now has 99 RBIs on the season.
The Pirates lead the Reds by 2 games, with two games left on the season. One more win and the Pirates will host Tuesday night's NL Wild Card playoff game. (As I write this blog, the Pirates already won the second game in the series as they were powered by 6 homers. I know what I'll be watching Tuesday night, go Pirates!)
St. Louis and Atlanta both won, remaining tied for the NL's best record, with the Braves holding the tie breaker. The Cardinals clinched the NL Central title. That was a bit of a shock to me as I had already thought they had clinched the NL Central.
In the AL Wild Card the Indians continued their incredible surge by winning their 8th straight game. Meanwhile the Rays had their 7 game winning streak broken, which means they are tied for first place in the AL Wild Card race. The Rangers have broken out of choke mode and won their fifth consecutive game, they trail the previously mentioned teams by 1 game. This race could go down to the final day, it should be fun.
themusicaddict
Friday, September 27, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 26th, 2013: Dodgers Lose, No Fatalities Reported, Goodbye Mariano
Hello,
On Thursday the Dodgers lost 3-2 to the Giants as both teams continue to play out the string. Other than pride the Dodgers have literally nothing to play for the rest of the regular season. They already know what spot they'll be in the upcoming playoffs, neither winning or losing will change that. After winning the World Series last season, the Giants have had a very rough season. I'd like to thank the Giants for the very classy moment of silence in honor of Jonathan Denver, who was killed a few blocks away from AT&T Park Wednesday night. He foolishly was involved in a confrontation about the Dodgers vs. the Giants rivalry, a confrontation that cost him his life. Although that's a terrible reason for the son of a Dodgers security guard to be killed.
Thanks again to the San Francisco Giants organization for the moment of silence. Although a lifelong Dodgers fan I have a great deal of respect for the Giants current brain trust. Of course when a team wins two World Series in just a few years, it's obvious they are doing many things right.
Andre Ethier, hitting .272, has an injured ankle and will probably sit out the rest of the regular season. He should be able to rest up at least until Tuesday. The Dodgers could probably live without him, but it would be better for Ethier to be as healthy as possible on a team that's injury prone.
The Dodgers close out the regular season by hosting the Rockies for 3 games. Good luck to Todd Helton on his post MLB life, enjoy your horse.
In a game I'm sure the MLB thought would be an exciting season closing series when the schedule was being made , Atlanta beat Philadelphia 7-1 in the first game. Sadly for MLB the Phillies have struggled all season as their veteran core ages. They also have one of the worst contracts in all of MLB in their contract with Ryan Howard. He was in Atlanta to be with his Phillies teammates yesterday. That's a nice touch, but it's doubtful he'll ever become the Ryan Howard of old.
Altanta was powered by Jason Heyward, he started off the game with a lead off home run. Heyward's 14th homer of the season was the first run in the Braves 5 run first inning. The Braves scored all 7 of their runs in the first 2 innings, it was more than enough runs to secure their 94th win of the season. Both the Braves and the Cardinals are 94-65 and are tied for the best record in the NL.
Both teams have 3 games remaining this season. Atlanta closes out the season against the awful Phillies (72-87) in Atlanta. Meanwhile the Cardinals will be hosting the terrible Cubs (66-93). It seems that St. Louis has the advantage there. However if the two teams tie for the best record in the NL, the Braves own the tie breaker. They won the season series against the Cardinals.
Meanwhile probably the most exciting series to close out the regular season will be the 3 game series between the Reds and Pirates. The Pirates lead the Reds by 1 game, but the Reds have the home field advantage in this series. That series starts tonight and tonight's scheduled pitching matchup looks to be a battle. It will be between two pitchers whose skills are better than their record indicates. The scheduled starters are A.J. Burnett (9-11, 3.39 ERA) vs. Homer Bailey (11-11, 3.40 ERA). It's funny that two teams that are so close in the standings send out two pitchers who are so close in win-loss record and ERA.
In the AL Wild Card, both the Rays and the Indians won their 7th straight games. Both of those teams hold tight to playing in the AL Wild Card game. Meanwhile the Rangers have won 4 games in a row and trail the Indians by 1 game. Honestly I'm cheering for Cleveland to reach the post season, go Tribe!
Lastly I've loved how the Yankees, Mariano Rivera, MLB and their opponents have handled Rivera's retirement tour. It's been a tour of class and great moments. From the nice tribute at the All-Star game to the great respect the Red Sox organization showed him to the tearful hug between him and Andy Pettite Thursday night. Rivera played his final game in the Bronx last night, the Rays 4-0 win was one of the least interesting things about last night's game.
Although am I in no way a Yankees fan, I've always loved how Rivera has carried himself. He has always been a winner, we likely won't see another player like him ever again. Rivera has played 19 seasons, been on 5 World Series winning teams, has 652 career saves. 42 of those saves have happened in the playoffs, he's the career leader in that stat.
A couple of years ago Rivera said he would love to play center field for an inning or two. If everything works out that would be great to see.
Good luck Mariano on your post career life, may all good things come your way.
themusicaddict
On Thursday the Dodgers lost 3-2 to the Giants as both teams continue to play out the string. Other than pride the Dodgers have literally nothing to play for the rest of the regular season. They already know what spot they'll be in the upcoming playoffs, neither winning or losing will change that. After winning the World Series last season, the Giants have had a very rough season. I'd like to thank the Giants for the very classy moment of silence in honor of Jonathan Denver, who was killed a few blocks away from AT&T Park Wednesday night. He foolishly was involved in a confrontation about the Dodgers vs. the Giants rivalry, a confrontation that cost him his life. Although that's a terrible reason for the son of a Dodgers security guard to be killed.
Thanks again to the San Francisco Giants organization for the moment of silence. Although a lifelong Dodgers fan I have a great deal of respect for the Giants current brain trust. Of course when a team wins two World Series in just a few years, it's obvious they are doing many things right.
Andre Ethier, hitting .272, has an injured ankle and will probably sit out the rest of the regular season. He should be able to rest up at least until Tuesday. The Dodgers could probably live without him, but it would be better for Ethier to be as healthy as possible on a team that's injury prone.
The Dodgers close out the regular season by hosting the Rockies for 3 games. Good luck to Todd Helton on his post MLB life, enjoy your horse.
In a game I'm sure the MLB thought would be an exciting season closing series when the schedule was being made , Atlanta beat Philadelphia 7-1 in the first game. Sadly for MLB the Phillies have struggled all season as their veteran core ages. They also have one of the worst contracts in all of MLB in their contract with Ryan Howard. He was in Atlanta to be with his Phillies teammates yesterday. That's a nice touch, but it's doubtful he'll ever become the Ryan Howard of old.
Altanta was powered by Jason Heyward, he started off the game with a lead off home run. Heyward's 14th homer of the season was the first run in the Braves 5 run first inning. The Braves scored all 7 of their runs in the first 2 innings, it was more than enough runs to secure their 94th win of the season. Both the Braves and the Cardinals are 94-65 and are tied for the best record in the NL.
Both teams have 3 games remaining this season. Atlanta closes out the season against the awful Phillies (72-87) in Atlanta. Meanwhile the Cardinals will be hosting the terrible Cubs (66-93). It seems that St. Louis has the advantage there. However if the two teams tie for the best record in the NL, the Braves own the tie breaker. They won the season series against the Cardinals.
Meanwhile probably the most exciting series to close out the regular season will be the 3 game series between the Reds and Pirates. The Pirates lead the Reds by 1 game, but the Reds have the home field advantage in this series. That series starts tonight and tonight's scheduled pitching matchup looks to be a battle. It will be between two pitchers whose skills are better than their record indicates. The scheduled starters are A.J. Burnett (9-11, 3.39 ERA) vs. Homer Bailey (11-11, 3.40 ERA). It's funny that two teams that are so close in the standings send out two pitchers who are so close in win-loss record and ERA.
In the AL Wild Card, both the Rays and the Indians won their 7th straight games. Both of those teams hold tight to playing in the AL Wild Card game. Meanwhile the Rangers have won 4 games in a row and trail the Indians by 1 game. Honestly I'm cheering for Cleveland to reach the post season, go Tribe!
Lastly I've loved how the Yankees, Mariano Rivera, MLB and their opponents have handled Rivera's retirement tour. It's been a tour of class and great moments. From the nice tribute at the All-Star game to the great respect the Red Sox organization showed him to the tearful hug between him and Andy Pettite Thursday night. Rivera played his final game in the Bronx last night, the Rays 4-0 win was one of the least interesting things about last night's game.
Although am I in no way a Yankees fan, I've always loved how Rivera has carried himself. He has always been a winner, we likely won't see another player like him ever again. Rivera has played 19 seasons, been on 5 World Series winning teams, has 652 career saves. 42 of those saves have happened in the playoffs, he's the career leader in that stat.
A couple of years ago Rivera said he would love to play center field for an inning or two. If everything works out that would be great to see.
Good luck Mariano on your post career life, may all good things come your way.
themusicaddict
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 25th, 2013 Dodgers Lose, R.I.P. Jonathan Denver
Hello,
I write this blog today with a fair bit amount of disgust. In last night's Dodgers-Giants game the action on the field has become meaningless due to what happened beyond the stadium. A 24 year old Dodgers fan, Jonathan Denver, was stabbed and killed a few blocks from AT&T Park Wednesday night. It seems the argument that lead to Denver's death was initiated between two different groups because of trash talk about the two respective teams. The argument then became more heated eventually leading to Denver's senseless death.
Obviously I wasn't in San Francisco when the fight took place. I have no idea what actually took place and I'm not assigning guilt to anyone or abstaining anyone from blame. I have no idea about all the specifics, I just find it horrifying that someone could lose their life over what baseball team they cheer for.
This past weekend I was at the BYU-Utah football game. This is a huge rivalry game in Utah although I know it barely draws a blip outside of the state. The game was at BYU's LaVell Edwards Stadium. The crowd approximately had about 60,000 BYU fans and there were about 5,000 Utah fans scattered throughout the stadium. g were seated near where I sit in the north endzone. Then there were scattered in pockets throughout the stadium. The Utes red stands out quite a bit contrasted to Cougar Blue. While there was some good natured trash talking I didn't see any physical confrontations at all.
This game is not only a rivalry, but there are also a lot of differing opinions about the church who's in charge of BYU. That's the Mormon, aka LDS, Church, an organization that has many of both fans and detractors.
I don't care why this argument took place, or even that it took place but the fact that it involved a physical altercation is ridiculous. A good natured rivalry is fun and great, but you should never lay a finger on anyone else. And as always in this type of situation there appears to be a lot of liquid courage involved. I'm just shaking my head now as I write about this situation.
Anyone now on to the least important part of this game, the actual game itself. ESPN speculated that if the Dodgers won this game that they may be able to get homefield advantage in the first round playoffs. That came off as bunk to me, because I don't think the Dodgers are going to catch the surging Cardinals. St. Louis won on Wednesday night and now leads the Dodgers by 2.5 games in the NL.
The Dodgers have split the first two games of this series against the Giants. The final game is Thursday night in San Francisco. Thursday's scheduled matchup will be between two pitchers who've struggled this season. The Dodgers are scheduled to send Edinson Volquez (9-12, 5.77 ERA) to the mound against former Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum. Lincecum is nowhere near as dominant as he has been in the past. Lincecum is 10-14, with a 4.48 ERA.
Following tonight's game the Dodgers return to LA and will host the Rockies in a three game series to close out the season.
Speaking of St. Louis, as I already mentioned they won Wednesday. They've won 3 in a row and 7 of 10. The Cardinals, one of the best organizations in MLB, seem to be headed towards another excellent postseason. Any club that can survive Albert Pujols leaving obviously has a lot going for it. Meanwhile both the Pirates and the Reds lost. Now the Cardinals lead the Pirates by 3 games and the Reds by the 4 games. That means that Pittsburgh on track to host the one game NL Wild Card game early next week.
Both the Reds and the Pirates have Thursday off. On Friday they'll start a 3 game series against each other in Cincinnati. That series will decide once and for all who'll host the NL Wild Card game. In the AL Wild Card it looks like that Tampa Bay will host Cleveland in the AL Wild Card game.
Finally ESPN is reporting that the 30 year old Robinson Cano wants to sign a 10 year, $305 million contract. He doesn't seem to be too picky about where he'll end up at. I have the feeling that he'll be a Dodger next season, as the Dodgers spend money like a drunken sailor. I'd be very happy with Cano being a Dodgers. But I'd be happier if the contract is closer to a 7 years and $180 million dollars.
I know that the Dodgers have a ton of money to spend, but I hope they've learned the lesson about signing players in their late 20s and early 30s to long-term contracts. I hope they remember the contracts of A-Rod, Josh Beckett, Ted Lilly and Ryan Howard before they sign Cano to a massive long term contract.
themusicaddict
I write this blog today with a fair bit amount of disgust. In last night's Dodgers-Giants game the action on the field has become meaningless due to what happened beyond the stadium. A 24 year old Dodgers fan, Jonathan Denver, was stabbed and killed a few blocks from AT&T Park Wednesday night. It seems the argument that lead to Denver's death was initiated between two different groups because of trash talk about the two respective teams. The argument then became more heated eventually leading to Denver's senseless death.
Obviously I wasn't in San Francisco when the fight took place. I have no idea what actually took place and I'm not assigning guilt to anyone or abstaining anyone from blame. I have no idea about all the specifics, I just find it horrifying that someone could lose their life over what baseball team they cheer for.
This past weekend I was at the BYU-Utah football game. This is a huge rivalry game in Utah although I know it barely draws a blip outside of the state. The game was at BYU's LaVell Edwards Stadium. The crowd approximately had about 60,000 BYU fans and there were about 5,000 Utah fans scattered throughout the stadium. g were seated near where I sit in the north endzone. Then there were scattered in pockets throughout the stadium. The Utes red stands out quite a bit contrasted to Cougar Blue. While there was some good natured trash talking I didn't see any physical confrontations at all.
This game is not only a rivalry, but there are also a lot of differing opinions about the church who's in charge of BYU. That's the Mormon, aka LDS, Church, an organization that has many of both fans and detractors.
I don't care why this argument took place, or even that it took place but the fact that it involved a physical altercation is ridiculous. A good natured rivalry is fun and great, but you should never lay a finger on anyone else. And as always in this type of situation there appears to be a lot of liquid courage involved. I'm just shaking my head now as I write about this situation.
Anyone now on to the least important part of this game, the actual game itself. ESPN speculated that if the Dodgers won this game that they may be able to get homefield advantage in the first round playoffs. That came off as bunk to me, because I don't think the Dodgers are going to catch the surging Cardinals. St. Louis won on Wednesday night and now leads the Dodgers by 2.5 games in the NL.
The Dodgers have split the first two games of this series against the Giants. The final game is Thursday night in San Francisco. Thursday's scheduled matchup will be between two pitchers who've struggled this season. The Dodgers are scheduled to send Edinson Volquez (9-12, 5.77 ERA) to the mound against former Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum. Lincecum is nowhere near as dominant as he has been in the past. Lincecum is 10-14, with a 4.48 ERA.
Following tonight's game the Dodgers return to LA and will host the Rockies in a three game series to close out the season.
Speaking of St. Louis, as I already mentioned they won Wednesday. They've won 3 in a row and 7 of 10. The Cardinals, one of the best organizations in MLB, seem to be headed towards another excellent postseason. Any club that can survive Albert Pujols leaving obviously has a lot going for it. Meanwhile both the Pirates and the Reds lost. Now the Cardinals lead the Pirates by 3 games and the Reds by the 4 games. That means that Pittsburgh on track to host the one game NL Wild Card game early next week.
Both the Reds and the Pirates have Thursday off. On Friday they'll start a 3 game series against each other in Cincinnati. That series will decide once and for all who'll host the NL Wild Card game. In the AL Wild Card it looks like that Tampa Bay will host Cleveland in the AL Wild Card game.
Finally ESPN is reporting that the 30 year old Robinson Cano wants to sign a 10 year, $305 million contract. He doesn't seem to be too picky about where he'll end up at. I have the feeling that he'll be a Dodger next season, as the Dodgers spend money like a drunken sailor. I'd be very happy with Cano being a Dodgers. But I'd be happier if the contract is closer to a 7 years and $180 million dollars.
I know that the Dodgers have a ton of money to spend, but I hope they've learned the lesson about signing players in their late 20s and early 30s to long-term contracts. I hope they remember the contracts of A-Rod, Josh Beckett, Ted Lilly and Ryan Howard before they sign Cano to a massive long term contract.
themusicaddict
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Dodgers Daily: September 24th, 2013: Pirates In NL Central Second Place By Themselves!
Hello,
On Tuesday the Dodgers were powered by Yasiel Puig's 19th and Matt Kemp's 6th homer, both home runs were solo shots. Hyun-Jin Ryu pitched 7 innings, he only allowed 4 hits and 1 run in LA's 2-1 victory. Ryu improves to 14-7 and has a 2.97 ERA. Kenley Jansen earned his 28th save and has a sterling 1.90 ERA. Jansen's ERA shows you how dominant Clayton Kershaw has been this season. Kershaw is a starting pitcher and has even a lower ERA than Jansen at 1.88.
This is the Dodgers third straight win, they improve to 91-66. But they still trail the Braves for the best record in the National League. Right now it's the Braves' home field advantage to lose. I'm glad to see the Dodgers are still winning, even though they virtually have nothing to play for at this point.
The top three teams in the NL Central are assured of making the playoffs, it's only what position they'll finish in. On Tuesday the Cardinals and Pirates won and the Reds lost. That means that the Cardinals rule the NL Central, but the Pirates are all alone in second place. They are two games back while the Reds are 3 games back. If the playoffs started today the Pirates would host the Reds in a one game playoff on Monday I believe.
In the AL Wild Card, both the Rays and Indians continue to solidify their hold on the AL Wild Card. Both teams have won 5 games in a row and Texas is one game behind Cleveland for that second Wild Card spot.
themusicaddict
On Tuesday the Dodgers were powered by Yasiel Puig's 19th and Matt Kemp's 6th homer, both home runs were solo shots. Hyun-Jin Ryu pitched 7 innings, he only allowed 4 hits and 1 run in LA's 2-1 victory. Ryu improves to 14-7 and has a 2.97 ERA. Kenley Jansen earned his 28th save and has a sterling 1.90 ERA. Jansen's ERA shows you how dominant Clayton Kershaw has been this season. Kershaw is a starting pitcher and has even a lower ERA than Jansen at 1.88.
This is the Dodgers third straight win, they improve to 91-66. But they still trail the Braves for the best record in the National League. Right now it's the Braves' home field advantage to lose. I'm glad to see the Dodgers are still winning, even though they virtually have nothing to play for at this point.
The top three teams in the NL Central are assured of making the playoffs, it's only what position they'll finish in. On Tuesday the Cardinals and Pirates won and the Reds lost. That means that the Cardinals rule the NL Central, but the Pirates are all alone in second place. They are two games back while the Reds are 3 games back. If the playoffs started today the Pirates would host the Reds in a one game playoff on Monday I believe.
In the AL Wild Card, both the Rays and Indians continue to solidify their hold on the AL Wild Card. Both teams have won 5 games in a row and Texas is one game behind Cleveland for that second Wild Card spot.
themusicaddict
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
themusicaddict's Greatest CDs Of All-Time: Tracy Chapman's 1988 Self-Titled CD (Partial Blog)
Hello,
Sadly Tracy Chapman's 1988 self-titled CD was her debut and her peak. But it's truly one of the greatest debut CDs of all-time.
1) "Talkin' About A Revolution":
2) "Fast Car":
3) "Across The Lines":
4) "Behind The Wall":
5) "Baby Can I Hold You":
6) "Mountain O' Things":
7) "She's Got Her Ticket":
"She's Got Her Ticket" (Live):
8) "Why?":
9) This is probably my favorite Tracy Chapman song, "For My Lover":
10) "If Not Now...":
11) "For You":
themusicaddict
Sadly Tracy Chapman's 1988 self-titled CD was her debut and her peak. But it's truly one of the greatest debut CDs of all-time.
1) "Talkin' About A Revolution":
2) "Fast Car":
3) "Across The Lines":
4) "Behind The Wall":
5) "Baby Can I Hold You":
6) "Mountain O' Things":
7) "She's Got Her Ticket":
"She's Got Her Ticket" (Live):
8) "Why?":
9) This is probably my favorite Tracy Chapman song, "For My Lover":
10) "If Not Now...":
11) "For You":
themusicaddict
Pirates, Reds Clinch Playoff Slots
Hello,
The Dodgers had Monday off, there will be no Dodger Daily today. However as the Pirates are one of my teams I'd like to write a short blog to congratulate them. The Pirates clinched at least one of the two NL Wild Card spots. It will be their first playoff appearance in 21 years.
On Monday the Pirates, Reds and Cardinals all won, making the NL Central race even more exciting. The Reds clinched a playoff spot and the Nationals are officially eliminated from playoff contention. Of course the Cardinals have clinched a playoff spot, their magic number is 4 to clinch the NL Central.
For the Pirates, Starling Marte hit a tie breaking homer in the top of the 9th inning. It's his 12th homer this season, but probably his biggest homer this season. The Pirates earned the win by throwing out a Cubs runner in the bottom of the 9th inning, it was the final out of the game.
Mark Melancon blew the save, but earned the win. Then Jason Grilli, who the Pirates haven't rushed back from injury, came in and earned his 32nd save of the season.
The Pirates improve to 90-67 this season and will be going to the playoffs for the first time since the early 90s. First the Pirates had the best record at one point this season, then clinched their first above .500 season and now have clinched a playoff spot. I don't expect a long playoff run by the playoff newbies, but if they improve this much next year then the skies the limit.
St. Louis still leads the Pirates and Reds by 2 games in the NL Central. All three teams are assured a playoff spot. Now the only two questions remaining are who's going to win the NL Central and who'll host the NL Wild Card game. With the Pirates closing out the final week of the regular season on the road, you know Pirates fans are hoping at least to host the NL Wild Card game.
The Pirates have two more games against the Cubs in Chicago, have Thursday off then close out the season with 3 games in Cincinnati. Meanwhile the Reds play two more games against the Mets, have Thursday off and then close out the season against the Pirates. That should make an exciting finale for an exciting season.
Congrats again to the Pirates.
themusicaddict
The Dodgers had Monday off, there will be no Dodger Daily today. However as the Pirates are one of my teams I'd like to write a short blog to congratulate them. The Pirates clinched at least one of the two NL Wild Card spots. It will be their first playoff appearance in 21 years.
On Monday the Pirates, Reds and Cardinals all won, making the NL Central race even more exciting. The Reds clinched a playoff spot and the Nationals are officially eliminated from playoff contention. Of course the Cardinals have clinched a playoff spot, their magic number is 4 to clinch the NL Central.
For the Pirates, Starling Marte hit a tie breaking homer in the top of the 9th inning. It's his 12th homer this season, but probably his biggest homer this season. The Pirates earned the win by throwing out a Cubs runner in the bottom of the 9th inning, it was the final out of the game.
Mark Melancon blew the save, but earned the win. Then Jason Grilli, who the Pirates haven't rushed back from injury, came in and earned his 32nd save of the season.
The Pirates improve to 90-67 this season and will be going to the playoffs for the first time since the early 90s. First the Pirates had the best record at one point this season, then clinched their first above .500 season and now have clinched a playoff spot. I don't expect a long playoff run by the playoff newbies, but if they improve this much next year then the skies the limit.
St. Louis still leads the Pirates and Reds by 2 games in the NL Central. All three teams are assured a playoff spot. Now the only two questions remaining are who's going to win the NL Central and who'll host the NL Wild Card game. With the Pirates closing out the final week of the regular season on the road, you know Pirates fans are hoping at least to host the NL Wild Card game.
The Pirates have two more games against the Cubs in Chicago, have Thursday off then close out the season with 3 games in Cincinnati. Meanwhile the Reds play two more games against the Mets, have Thursday off and then close out the season against the Pirates. That should make an exciting finale for an exciting season.
Congrats again to the Pirates.
themusicaddict
Monday, September 23, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 22nd, 2013: Dodgers Playing Out The String, Braves, A's Clinch Division Titles
Hello,
The Dodgers finished their 3 game series with the Padres on Sunday by winning 1-0. LA won two of three games in the series. However as indicated by the score and that there were only a total of 6 hits, it's obvious both teams are playing out the string. The game was decided because of an error by Will Venable.
The Dodgers seem to be content where they are at in the playoffs. Although if I was LA I wouldn't feel comfortable playing the Cardinals in the first round of the playoffs. I'd be highly motivated to avoid playing the playoff hardened Cardinals in the playoffs, especially in the first round. Especially if the Cardinals have home field advantage. As of Sunday the Cardinals lead the Dodgers by 1 game. LA should at least try to chase down the Cardinals to get home field advantage in the first round.
Also as of Sunday the Dodgers are 2.5 games behind the Braves for best record in the NL, it's highly unlikely they'll catch the Braves.
The Dodgers have Monday off. While thinking about this blog I realized my Dodgers Daily blog may be coming to an end as soon as next week. With MLB's playoffs relatively short, things happen fast.
And of course the Padres are just playing out the string on another awful season. They haven't been a good team since they had Adrian Gonzalez playing for them a few years ago.
Speaking of the Braves, Andrelton Simmons hit his 16th and 17th homers of the season. He also had 3 RBIs and has 57 this season. On Sunday the Braves beat the Cubs 5-2 and clinched the NL East division title. This is the Braves first division crown since 2005. Craig Kimbrel closed out the game for Atlanta by saving his 49th game.
Meanwhile the A's beat the Twins 11-7, which means they clinched their 2nd straight division title. The A's finish with a better record than the much higher paid Rangers and Angels. The Angels have been a particular disgrace while the Rangers were good for most of the season. As with the A's winning their second straight division, the Rangers faded badly down the stretch for the second straight season. Is it time to get a new manager for the Rangers? The A's trail the Red Sox by 1.5 games for best record in the AL. Whoever finishes with the best record in the AL will have the opportunity to host every series throughout the entire playoffs, including the World Series.
In the hotly contested NL Central the Reds thumped the Pirates. Then the Cardinals lost to the Brewers on Sunday Night Baseball. The Cardinals lead both the Pirates and Reds by 2 games in the NL Central. In the NL Wild Card the Pirates and Reds are tied for the lead. The Nationals are barely alive in NL Wild Card contention, 5 games back with 6 games to go. It's likely they'll be eliminated any day.
In the AL Wild Card, it's looking more and more like that the Rays and the Indians will play in the one game playoff. The winners of that game will likely play the Red Sox in the first round of the playoffs. Good luck with that.
themusicaddict
The Dodgers finished their 3 game series with the Padres on Sunday by winning 1-0. LA won two of three games in the series. However as indicated by the score and that there were only a total of 6 hits, it's obvious both teams are playing out the string. The game was decided because of an error by Will Venable.
The Dodgers seem to be content where they are at in the playoffs. Although if I was LA I wouldn't feel comfortable playing the Cardinals in the first round of the playoffs. I'd be highly motivated to avoid playing the playoff hardened Cardinals in the playoffs, especially in the first round. Especially if the Cardinals have home field advantage. As of Sunday the Cardinals lead the Dodgers by 1 game. LA should at least try to chase down the Cardinals to get home field advantage in the first round.
Also as of Sunday the Dodgers are 2.5 games behind the Braves for best record in the NL, it's highly unlikely they'll catch the Braves.
The Dodgers have Monday off. While thinking about this blog I realized my Dodgers Daily blog may be coming to an end as soon as next week. With MLB's playoffs relatively short, things happen fast.
And of course the Padres are just playing out the string on another awful season. They haven't been a good team since they had Adrian Gonzalez playing for them a few years ago.
Speaking of the Braves, Andrelton Simmons hit his 16th and 17th homers of the season. He also had 3 RBIs and has 57 this season. On Sunday the Braves beat the Cubs 5-2 and clinched the NL East division title. This is the Braves first division crown since 2005. Craig Kimbrel closed out the game for Atlanta by saving his 49th game.
Meanwhile the A's beat the Twins 11-7, which means they clinched their 2nd straight division title. The A's finish with a better record than the much higher paid Rangers and Angels. The Angels have been a particular disgrace while the Rangers were good for most of the season. As with the A's winning their second straight division, the Rangers faded badly down the stretch for the second straight season. Is it time to get a new manager for the Rangers? The A's trail the Red Sox by 1.5 games for best record in the AL. Whoever finishes with the best record in the AL will have the opportunity to host every series throughout the entire playoffs, including the World Series.
In the hotly contested NL Central the Reds thumped the Pirates. Then the Cardinals lost to the Brewers on Sunday Night Baseball. The Cardinals lead both the Pirates and Reds by 2 games in the NL Central. In the NL Wild Card the Pirates and Reds are tied for the lead. The Nationals are barely alive in NL Wild Card contention, 5 games back with 6 games to go. It's likely they'll be eliminated any day.
In the AL Wild Card, it's looking more and more like that the Rays and the Indians will play in the one game playoff. The winners of that game will likely play the Red Sox in the first round of the playoffs. Good luck with that.
themusicaddict
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 21st, 2013: Dodgers & Pirates Win, Kershaw and Burnett Deliver
Hello,
On Saturday the Dodgers won 4-0, they were powered by homers from A.J. Ellis and Yasiel Puig. Clayton Kershaw improved his Cy Young award chances with another impressive outing. In his 7 inning outing, he allowed only 3 hits and 0 runs. He improved his record to 15-9 and lowered his ERA to 1.88.
Also the Pirates won a big game, defeating the Reds by a score of 4-2. This was a huge win for the Pirates and I'm so glad they didn't let this game slip away. A.J. Burnett had a solid outing for the Pirates. He allowed only 4 hits and 2 runs. However he also had 12 strikeouts in Pittsburgh's victory. Burnett improves to 9-11 and lowers his ERA to 1.88.
However St. Louis also won, so they remain 2 games ahead of Pittsburgh in the NL Central. The Reds are in third place and are 3 games back. As it has been most this second half of the season, the two teams who don't win the NL Central will play in the NL one game NL Wild Card. All 3 teams only have 7 games left, this should be an exciting final week of the season.
The AL Wild Card remains close as well, the two Wild Card teams right now would be Tampa Bay and Cleveland. The Rangers are only .5 game back of Cleveland, while the Yankees are 3 games back. It looks like Mariano Rivera's final season in the MLB is going to end without playing in one more playoffs.
themusicaddict
On Saturday the Dodgers won 4-0, they were powered by homers from A.J. Ellis and Yasiel Puig. Clayton Kershaw improved his Cy Young award chances with another impressive outing. In his 7 inning outing, he allowed only 3 hits and 0 runs. He improved his record to 15-9 and lowered his ERA to 1.88.
Also the Pirates won a big game, defeating the Reds by a score of 4-2. This was a huge win for the Pirates and I'm so glad they didn't let this game slip away. A.J. Burnett had a solid outing for the Pirates. He allowed only 4 hits and 2 runs. However he also had 12 strikeouts in Pittsburgh's victory. Burnett improves to 9-11 and lowers his ERA to 1.88.
However St. Louis also won, so they remain 2 games ahead of Pittsburgh in the NL Central. The Reds are in third place and are 3 games back. As it has been most this second half of the season, the two teams who don't win the NL Central will play in the NL one game NL Wild Card. All 3 teams only have 7 games left, this should be an exciting final week of the season.
The AL Wild Card remains close as well, the two Wild Card teams right now would be Tampa Bay and Cleveland. The Rangers are only .5 game back of Cleveland, while the Yankees are 3 games back. It looks like Mariano Rivera's final season in the MLB is going to end without playing in one more playoffs.
themusicaddict
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 20th, 2013: Dodgers Rest Starters, Lose, Red Sox Clinch AL East
Hello,
With the Dodgers clinching the NL West and not seeming interested in going after the NL's best record, I'm going to lessen my emphasis on the Dodgers until the playoffs start.
On Friday, the Dodgers started a 3 game series with the Padres in San Diego. Don Mattingly's obvious goal was to give Dodgers' starters rest. Matt Kemp, Yasiel Puig and Adrian Gonzalez only had a pinch hit appearance. Also Hanley Ramirez and Carl Crawford didn't even play in this game. I completely agree with Mattingly's decision to rest players, especially injury prone players like Crawford, Ramirez and Kemp.
The Red Sox clinched their division on Friday, completing a remarkable turnaround going from worst to first. It's obvious the Red Sox have overcome the Bobby Valentine's season massacre. There seemed to be some indecision by Red Sox ownership whether to bring Valentine back for 2013 or not. I'm so glad wiser minds prevailed. It's also worthy to note the man that Red Sox ownership pushed out, Terry Francona, has his Indians in the playoffs as of Friday night. That being said, maybe it was time for a change in Boston anyway. Too bad that change was Bobby Valentine.
It seems that John Farrell is doing a very good job, his Red Sox have clinched the AL East after all. Although the AL East, a division I thought was going to be so tough, ended up being only good, not great.
Meanwhile the Pirates suffered a very disappointing loss, they were leading 5-2 going into the top of the 9th inning. Unfortunately they ended up losing the game 6-5. Jordy Mercer's wild throw resulted in an error. That opened the door for the Reds to score 3 runs, tie the game and force it into extra innings. The Reds then won when Joey Votto hit his 24th homer of the season in the top of the inning. Sadly the Pirates were unable to push a run across in the 9th or 10th inning.
It's looking more and more like the Pirates will go on the road to play in the one game Wild Card playoff. As of now the Cardinals rule the NL Central, they lead both the Reds and the Pirates by 2 games. The Reds and Pirates are tied for the NL Wild Card lead, it's essential the Pirates win the last two games of this series.
Also in the NL East the Braves magic number is 5. In the AL West the Rangers continue to collapse, and temporarily have been passed by the Indians. Meanwhile the A's are coasting to the AL West title, their magic number has been reduced to 2.
Five of my seven teams look like they are going to make the playoffs. That would be the Dodgers, Red Sox, A's, Braves and Pirates- hopefully on the Pirates. My two teams that aren't going to make it are the Cubs and the Orioles. I hope that at least one of those five teams make the World Series, but honestly I would love to see one of my teams win it all. I'm glad the Yankees aren't going to be in the playoffs, I'm so tired of them.
It's interesting to note that things aren't going well in Texas sports wise. The Rangers are collapsing, if the Rangers don't make the playoffs I think they need to make a managerial change. I'm not a Rangers fan, so I don't really care. But why would you keep a manager who's team has faded completely the last two years? The Cowboys continue to head towards irrelevance as they are being destroyed from inside by the shenanigans of Jerry Jones. Finally the Texas Longhorns aren't the team that everyone expects them to be. They were manhandled by BYU and Ole Miss back to back, with that second game being at home. Of course Jones has nothing to do with the Longhorns so it's likely they'll bounce back quicker than the Cowboys.
themusicaddict
With the Dodgers clinching the NL West and not seeming interested in going after the NL's best record, I'm going to lessen my emphasis on the Dodgers until the playoffs start.
On Friday, the Dodgers started a 3 game series with the Padres in San Diego. Don Mattingly's obvious goal was to give Dodgers' starters rest. Matt Kemp, Yasiel Puig and Adrian Gonzalez only had a pinch hit appearance. Also Hanley Ramirez and Carl Crawford didn't even play in this game. I completely agree with Mattingly's decision to rest players, especially injury prone players like Crawford, Ramirez and Kemp.
The Red Sox clinched their division on Friday, completing a remarkable turnaround going from worst to first. It's obvious the Red Sox have overcome the Bobby Valentine's season massacre. There seemed to be some indecision by Red Sox ownership whether to bring Valentine back for 2013 or not. I'm so glad wiser minds prevailed. It's also worthy to note the man that Red Sox ownership pushed out, Terry Francona, has his Indians in the playoffs as of Friday night. That being said, maybe it was time for a change in Boston anyway. Too bad that change was Bobby Valentine.
It seems that John Farrell is doing a very good job, his Red Sox have clinched the AL East after all. Although the AL East, a division I thought was going to be so tough, ended up being only good, not great.
Meanwhile the Pirates suffered a very disappointing loss, they were leading 5-2 going into the top of the 9th inning. Unfortunately they ended up losing the game 6-5. Jordy Mercer's wild throw resulted in an error. That opened the door for the Reds to score 3 runs, tie the game and force it into extra innings. The Reds then won when Joey Votto hit his 24th homer of the season in the top of the inning. Sadly the Pirates were unable to push a run across in the 9th or 10th inning.
It's looking more and more like the Pirates will go on the road to play in the one game Wild Card playoff. As of now the Cardinals rule the NL Central, they lead both the Reds and the Pirates by 2 games. The Reds and Pirates are tied for the NL Wild Card lead, it's essential the Pirates win the last two games of this series.
Also in the NL East the Braves magic number is 5. In the AL West the Rangers continue to collapse, and temporarily have been passed by the Indians. Meanwhile the A's are coasting to the AL West title, their magic number has been reduced to 2.
Five of my seven teams look like they are going to make the playoffs. That would be the Dodgers, Red Sox, A's, Braves and Pirates- hopefully on the Pirates. My two teams that aren't going to make it are the Cubs and the Orioles. I hope that at least one of those five teams make the World Series, but honestly I would love to see one of my teams win it all. I'm glad the Yankees aren't going to be in the playoffs, I'm so tired of them.
It's interesting to note that things aren't going well in Texas sports wise. The Rangers are collapsing, if the Rangers don't make the playoffs I think they need to make a managerial change. I'm not a Rangers fan, so I don't really care. But why would you keep a manager who's team has faded completely the last two years? The Cowboys continue to head towards irrelevance as they are being destroyed from inside by the shenanigans of Jerry Jones. Finally the Texas Longhorns aren't the team that everyone expects them to be. They were manhandled by BYU and Ole Miss back to back, with that second game being at home. Of course Jones has nothing to do with the Longhorns so it's likely they'll bounce back quicker than the Cowboys.
themusicaddict
Friday, September 20, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 19th, 2013: The LA Dodgers Are Your NL West Title Winners!
Hello,
I would like to congratulate the Dodgers on winning the NL West, the first time since 2009. What an amazing feeling it is. I've followed this team since I can barely remember, around 35 years. I remember Reggie Jackson, Bob Welch, Kirk Gibson and all their big playoffs moments they had for and against the Dodgers. I remember when the infield was Steve Garvey, Davey Lopes, Bill Russell and Ron Cey, I believe they were together for 9 years.
On the flip side I remember the disastrous Frank McCount era. (It's sad when an owner causes so much damage to their own team. As a Cowboys fan, I'm going through the same thing now with Jerry Jones, only his ownership has been longer and much more torturous. Jones has been living off the glory days of Jimmy Johnson and using that to justify that he knows what he's doing. Other than writing checks and staying out of the way Jones had very little to do with those Super Bowl titles.) However LA went from one of the worst all-time owners to very good owners. I'm not convinced Guggenheim Baseball Management will be amazing owners, but winning seems to be their main priority. Whereas financially engorging himself seemed to be McCourt's main priority.
On Thursday, one of the Dodgers main spark plugs produced again, that's Hanley Ramirez. Ramirez was not to be denied in this game. He was 4 for 5 and raised his batting average to .351. He also hit his 19th and 20th homers. In doing so he had his 54th, 55th, 56th and 57th RBIs. Ramirez's homer in the first inning gave the Dodgers a 3-0 lead. Then his second homer, in the 7th inning, tied the game at 6.
All that set the stage for A.J. Ellis' home run in the 8th inning, that gave the Dodgers the 7-6 lead. That ended up being the final score and the Dodgers were the NL West champs. Ellis and Ramirez had 7 of 11 Dodgers hits.
Overall the pitching ended up being decent although Ricky Nolasco had his second straight rough start. In 5 innings he gave up 9 hits, 6 runs and didn't earn a decision. The Dodgers offense bailed him out, which isn't exactly something they're known for. That's especially when their ace Clayton Kershaw is pitching. However Brandon League, J.P. Howell (who got the win and is 3-1), Brian Wilson and Kenley Jansen all did a good job. Jansen earned his 26th save of the season and now has a sparkling 1.95 ERA. He also had two more strikeouts, striking out 2 of the 3 batters he faced.
The Dodgers are 88-65 and have a 100% chance of reaching the playoffs, that feels so good to say. As of now they trail the Atlanta Braves by 2.5 games for the best record in the NL. Again the season is way too long, let's get these playoffs started. The Dodgers now play three games against the Padres then will have a much needed day off. That will be their last day off of the regular season.
I'd also like to congratulate the Boston Red Sox for clinching at the very least an AL Wild Card playoff berth. Of course Boston is shooting for a much higher goal and currently lead the Rays by 9 games in the AL East. Boston's magic number to win the AL East is 1 and they'd like to wrap up the division title asap. I also appreciate the fact that they had a quiet celebration. After dominating the AL East for so long now, the AL Wild Card should be the least of their goals. If they had earned an AL Wild Card with Bobby Valentine managing them, then that would've been worthy of celebration.
The Red Sox look to clinch the AL East tonight in a series that starts against the Blue Jays. The Red Sox also lead the A's by 2.5 games for the best record in Major League Baseball. The Red Sox could be hosting every level of the playoffs up through and including the World Series.
The roller coaster ride of John Lackey's career continues, he had a very big up yesterday. Lackey pitched a complete game, two hit shutout. He's only 10-12, but has a solid 3.44 ERA. According to ESPN he has the lowest run support of all of Red Sox pitchers.
The A's, Pirates and Braves also continue rolling towards the playoffs. It's been crazy having so many of my team be so good this season.
themusicaddict
I would like to congratulate the Dodgers on winning the NL West, the first time since 2009. What an amazing feeling it is. I've followed this team since I can barely remember, around 35 years. I remember Reggie Jackson, Bob Welch, Kirk Gibson and all their big playoffs moments they had for and against the Dodgers. I remember when the infield was Steve Garvey, Davey Lopes, Bill Russell and Ron Cey, I believe they were together for 9 years.
On the flip side I remember the disastrous Frank McCount era. (It's sad when an owner causes so much damage to their own team. As a Cowboys fan, I'm going through the same thing now with Jerry Jones, only his ownership has been longer and much more torturous. Jones has been living off the glory days of Jimmy Johnson and using that to justify that he knows what he's doing. Other than writing checks and staying out of the way Jones had very little to do with those Super Bowl titles.) However LA went from one of the worst all-time owners to very good owners. I'm not convinced Guggenheim Baseball Management will be amazing owners, but winning seems to be their main priority. Whereas financially engorging himself seemed to be McCourt's main priority.
On Thursday, one of the Dodgers main spark plugs produced again, that's Hanley Ramirez. Ramirez was not to be denied in this game. He was 4 for 5 and raised his batting average to .351. He also hit his 19th and 20th homers. In doing so he had his 54th, 55th, 56th and 57th RBIs. Ramirez's homer in the first inning gave the Dodgers a 3-0 lead. Then his second homer, in the 7th inning, tied the game at 6.
All that set the stage for A.J. Ellis' home run in the 8th inning, that gave the Dodgers the 7-6 lead. That ended up being the final score and the Dodgers were the NL West champs. Ellis and Ramirez had 7 of 11 Dodgers hits.
Overall the pitching ended up being decent although Ricky Nolasco had his second straight rough start. In 5 innings he gave up 9 hits, 6 runs and didn't earn a decision. The Dodgers offense bailed him out, which isn't exactly something they're known for. That's especially when their ace Clayton Kershaw is pitching. However Brandon League, J.P. Howell (who got the win and is 3-1), Brian Wilson and Kenley Jansen all did a good job. Jansen earned his 26th save of the season and now has a sparkling 1.95 ERA. He also had two more strikeouts, striking out 2 of the 3 batters he faced.
The Dodgers are 88-65 and have a 100% chance of reaching the playoffs, that feels so good to say. As of now they trail the Atlanta Braves by 2.5 games for the best record in the NL. Again the season is way too long, let's get these playoffs started. The Dodgers now play three games against the Padres then will have a much needed day off. That will be their last day off of the regular season.
I'd also like to congratulate the Boston Red Sox for clinching at the very least an AL Wild Card playoff berth. Of course Boston is shooting for a much higher goal and currently lead the Rays by 9 games in the AL East. Boston's magic number to win the AL East is 1 and they'd like to wrap up the division title asap. I also appreciate the fact that they had a quiet celebration. After dominating the AL East for so long now, the AL Wild Card should be the least of their goals. If they had earned an AL Wild Card with Bobby Valentine managing them, then that would've been worthy of celebration.
The Red Sox look to clinch the AL East tonight in a series that starts against the Blue Jays. The Red Sox also lead the A's by 2.5 games for the best record in Major League Baseball. The Red Sox could be hosting every level of the playoffs up through and including the World Series.
The roller coaster ride of John Lackey's career continues, he had a very big up yesterday. Lackey pitched a complete game, two hit shutout. He's only 10-12, but has a solid 3.44 ERA. According to ESPN he has the lowest run support of all of Red Sox pitchers.
The A's, Pirates and Braves also continue rolling towards the playoffs. It's been crazy having so many of my team be so good this season.
themusicaddict
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 18th, 2013: Dodgers Stopped Again At NL West Threshold, AL Wild Card Remains Tight
Hello,
The Dodgers continue their recent run of poor play, losing on Wednesday to Arizona 9-4. LA's magic number remains 2 and on Thursday they'll try to clinch the NL West once again.
At least the Dodgers offense showed up in this game, it's too bad that their pitching was brutal. Clayton Kershaw's was scheduled to start, but his start was pushed back. The start was given to Stephen Fife, which didn't work out in the Dodgers favor. In 2.1 innings he gave up 6 hits and 4 runs in that limited action. The goggled one drops to 4-4 and his ERA is at 3.86. As hard as it's to believe he didn't have the worst outing by a Dodgers pitcher, that honor belongs to Ronald Belisario. Belisario was bad as he bungled his way to giving up 2 hits, 3 walks and 5 runs in 1/3 of an inning. Belisario's ERA increases to 4.13.
The rest of the Dodgers pitchers were better. Carlos Marmol, Peter Moylan and Brandon League had decent outings. Paco Rodriguez and Brian Wilson were both great. Rodriguez has been solid all season and Wilson is a nice late season addition. He also has World Series experience, I'm hoping he gets more World Series experience this year.
Arizona has won 2 of the first 3 games in this series, the fourth and final game is Thursday afternoon. With the Dodgers going after the NL West title again (ahem) they sent the solid Ricky Nolasco (13-10, 3.35 ERA) to the mound. Arizona will rely on Wade Miley (10-10, 3.68 ERA).
The AL Wild Card race continues to be a battle. Right now the two AL Wild Card teams would be Tampa Bay and Texas. However Cleveland is only .5 games behind the Rangers for that second Wild Card spot. If the Indians make the playoffs should Terry Francona be the AL manager of the year? He should definitely be in consideration.
Baltimore, who's 1 game behind Texas and a half game behind Cleveland, stays in the race. Somehow they've climbed to a 17.3% chance of reaching the playoffs. They've won two clutch games in Boston, too bad they didn't have a few more clutch wins previously. The third and final game of this series from Fenway is Thursday night. Can the Orioles win yet again?
After Thursday's game the schedule doesn't get any easier for the Orioles. They play every day the rest of the season. After playing in Boston for 3 games, they travel to Tampa Bay for 4 more games. Right now Baltimore is two game behind Tampa Bay so in this series they could pass the Rays and put themselves into great Wild Card position. Tampa hasn't been playing great as of late so Baltimore still has a slim chance. However the Orioles making the playoffs is highly unlikely.
The other question is will the Rangers continue to fade, it's got to feel like the end of last season all over again.
themusicaddict
The Dodgers continue their recent run of poor play, losing on Wednesday to Arizona 9-4. LA's magic number remains 2 and on Thursday they'll try to clinch the NL West once again.
At least the Dodgers offense showed up in this game, it's too bad that their pitching was brutal. Clayton Kershaw's was scheduled to start, but his start was pushed back. The start was given to Stephen Fife, which didn't work out in the Dodgers favor. In 2.1 innings he gave up 6 hits and 4 runs in that limited action. The goggled one drops to 4-4 and his ERA is at 3.86. As hard as it's to believe he didn't have the worst outing by a Dodgers pitcher, that honor belongs to Ronald Belisario. Belisario was bad as he bungled his way to giving up 2 hits, 3 walks and 5 runs in 1/3 of an inning. Belisario's ERA increases to 4.13.
The rest of the Dodgers pitchers were better. Carlos Marmol, Peter Moylan and Brandon League had decent outings. Paco Rodriguez and Brian Wilson were both great. Rodriguez has been solid all season and Wilson is a nice late season addition. He also has World Series experience, I'm hoping he gets more World Series experience this year.
Arizona has won 2 of the first 3 games in this series, the fourth and final game is Thursday afternoon. With the Dodgers going after the NL West title again (ahem) they sent the solid Ricky Nolasco (13-10, 3.35 ERA) to the mound. Arizona will rely on Wade Miley (10-10, 3.68 ERA).
The AL Wild Card race continues to be a battle. Right now the two AL Wild Card teams would be Tampa Bay and Texas. However Cleveland is only .5 games behind the Rangers for that second Wild Card spot. If the Indians make the playoffs should Terry Francona be the AL manager of the year? He should definitely be in consideration.
Baltimore, who's 1 game behind Texas and a half game behind Cleveland, stays in the race. Somehow they've climbed to a 17.3% chance of reaching the playoffs. They've won two clutch games in Boston, too bad they didn't have a few more clutch wins previously. The third and final game of this series from Fenway is Thursday night. Can the Orioles win yet again?
After Thursday's game the schedule doesn't get any easier for the Orioles. They play every day the rest of the season. After playing in Boston for 3 games, they travel to Tampa Bay for 4 more games. Right now Baltimore is two game behind Tampa Bay so in this series they could pass the Rays and put themselves into great Wild Card position. Tampa hasn't been playing great as of late so Baltimore still has a slim chance. However the Orioles making the playoffs is highly unlikely.
The other question is will the Rangers continue to fade, it's got to feel like the end of last season all over again.
themusicaddict
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
The 2013 Dallas Cowboys Doldrums: Jerry Jones You Are The Problem (Updated September 19th, 2013)
Hello,
I'll go back and forth on saying the decisions are Jones or the Cowboys, because the two to me are synonymous. More importantly I want to say Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
I've loved following the Dodgers this season as they are on their way to the playoffs. I remember back in the day when I use to feel the same way about the Cowboys. At this time I'm barely still a Cowboys fan. It's one thing to be bad, but to be bad because of the heavy handed egotistic ownership of someone who has no idea what he's doing really tries a person's fandom. The Cowboys continue their steady descent to mediocrity and deterioration. What Jones has done to his own team continues to take more shine off the star of the team who used to represent so much. Thanks to Jones for his clueless, pathetic and destructive ownership of the Cowboys.
It's a new season, but more of the same for the Cowboys. The Cowboys are 1-1 this season, which falls right in line with them finishing 8-8 the last two seasons. Although the Cowboys offensive line has long been a weakness, Jones has failed to properly address this once again this past off season. Someone that played the offensive line in college would seem to realize how important the offensive line is. At least that's what I would think. (I know using logic with Jones is a fools game.) Even when he does address the offensive line, he does it poorly. He drafted Travis Frederick in the first round, many draft analysts thought the Cowboys could have got Frederick in the third round. All those years of Jones ignoring the offensive line in chasing after the bright flashy player have caught up to Dallas. Many of those shiny toy players have turned into busts.
What are some of the things that Jones has mismanaged, the first thing is handling of Tony Romo. I'm not a big fan of Romo, he's choked too many times when the Cowboys need him the most. In Romo's defense, with Jones' poor handling of the Cowboys we won't ever be able to judge Romo's career in a fair way. For instance, how much better would Romo have been if Jones had actually given him a great offensive line in to protect him? I don't know that Romo's record would be better than 1-6 in win or go home games, but there's a good chance that his record would be better.
Also Romo had one more year on his contract and instead of letting the contract play out, Jones threw a lot of money at Romo to make a panic signing. Romo will end up getting the better of that deal as the 33 year old quarterback's skills eventually begin to deteriorate. In line with that the Cowboys have yet to draft the quarterback of the future, Jones idiotically keeps on saying that Romo is the quarterback of the future. Not drafting that future quarterback is going to haunt the Cowboys someday soon, just like they are being haunted by not building a better offensive line. With Dallas' porous offensive line, Romo will probably get injured again and have to miss games. Romo is already dealing with sore ribs from being hit in game 1. The hit came because of that poor offensive line.
Not only did Jones give Romo a ton of money, he also let Romo have much more say in making up game plans and calling plays. Bill Callahan calls the plays, but then Romo ends up doing what the hell he wants to do based on what he sees from the defense. Dallas has been no better or worse than when Garrett was calling plays.
But the Cowboys have an experienced quarterback backing him up right? Yes they do, too bad that's Kyle Orton. Not that Romo is an amazing quarterback, but Orton is a deep drop off in talent.
What about the draft? The ESPN Dallas writers, who seem to want the Cowboys to win as much as I do, often write articles about how the Cowboys drafts pan out? Most of them end up being cut quicker than would be expected. Also not many players go to other teams and find success, which is another sign of how bad of players are that Jones drafts. I realize that Jones has people help him with the draft, but ultimately it's Jones' final decision.
Hand in hand with the draft is the Cowboys trades and signing of free agents. The two worst Cowboy trades that jump to mind, and probably to most Cowboys fans minds, is the trades for Joey Galloway and Roy Williams. Dallas gave up way too much and received so little in both of these deals. The trade especially for the wide receiver Williams was brutal. It was pretty clear that was a bad trade from almost the beginning. When he was finally cut, he left behind about $7 million dollars in dead money. For those who don't know dead money is guaranteed money for a player that goes against the salary cap the season after a player is cut. Due to Jones poor decision making, the Cowboys usually have a lot of dead money on each season's salary cap.
As for free agency signings, all I want to do is mention the names of Mackenzy Bernadeau and Nate Livings. Both of which signed in 2012 and already Livings is no longer with the team. The signing of Doug Free for 4 years and $32 million a few years ago. Yes, it was probably his missed block that lead to Romo's injury.
The Cowboys looked okay in their first game against the Giants, although the Giants don't look like they are a very good team. In their second game Dallas choked against the Chiefs, which shouldn't surprise any long time Cowboys fan. But the bottom will fall out when this team starts losing players to injury. And that will happen because Jones loves to sign injured players. He hopes they'll turn into great players and he gets them at a cut rate price. The bad thing about that is when those players become vital to the team but miss games due to injury. That scenario played out a few times last season.
Anthony Spencer and Jay Ratliff have already missed games. Will Ratliff even play this season? Look for some combination of Sean Lee, DeMarco Murray, Miles Austin, Morris Claiborne or other important players to miss time due to injuries.
Actually Jay Ratliff is a great example of how bad of a GM Jones is. Ratliff misses much of last season due to "injury" and also goes after Jones in the locker room. However Jones keeps him on the roster. Ratliff's sack numbers have dropped the last 5 seasons and he had 0 sacks last season but Jones still keeps him. Ratliff gets in an drunken driving accident in the offseason, Jones still keeps him around. (Josh Brent would still be on the team, even after killing someone, if he hadn't retired.) Ratliff doesn't work out with the Cowboys trainers in the off season and is put on the IR for the first 6 weeks of the season. Guess what happens? Yes, Ratliff is still on the team and has a very expensive contract. That's a contract he should have never been signed to. Yes, Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
What do these names have in common? Wade Phillips, Barry Switzer, Jason Garrett, Dave Campo and Chan Gailey. Yes, that's right all 5 people have been head coaches/ puppets of Jerry and the Cowboys. I know that technically Barry Switzer won a Super Bowl. Being honest though, he won the Super Bowl by staying out of the way and taking advantage of the players Jimmy Johnson drafted. When those players left or got too old, Switzer's teams weren't very good. Don't even remind me of the 5-11 seasons of Campo, the horrendous coaching of Phillips, the poorly managed games of Garrett and I can't remember anything about Chan Gailey's coaching tenure (or is it manure?) Jerruh you've done a damn fine job of hiring coaches. Yes, Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
Even when Garrett gets fired during or after the season that won't fix anything. The clueless Jones will only hire another puppet. It also doesn't help that Jones undermines his coaches like taking away the play calling from Garrett. By the way Garrett handled that you can tell he didn't want to give up the play calling.
But no one is better at selling a mediocre product than Jerry Jones, you've got to give him credit for that. Before the season started, he said he was so excited that he couldn't even sleep. That's part of his snake oil salesman personality. I use to buy into that snake oil too, but after the Cowboys have failed for so many years I gave up on Jones' hype machine a couple of years ago. Yes, Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
Also Jones is desperate to win a Super Bowl, but he's determined to do it his way. But apparently two playoff wins in 17 years isn't enough of a hint that he has no clue what he's doing. He's protected himself by surrounding himself with yes men and puppets, who's job security ties into agreeing with Jones.
Jones says all the right things about winning, although he hasn't changed much the last several years. He keeps on doing the same things, but expects the team to change. That's why I don't believe Jones when he says he really wants the Cowboys to win. Because if he really wanted the Cowboys to win, he would make significant changes. Reportedly the Cowboys had $125 million profit last year, that's what he really cares about.
Sadly the Cowboys will remain a mediocre franchise, again two playoff wins in the last 17 years, while someone with the last name of Jones owns/destroys the Cowboys. Yes, Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
themusicaddict
I'll go back and forth on saying the decisions are Jones or the Cowboys, because the two to me are synonymous. More importantly I want to say Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
I've loved following the Dodgers this season as they are on their way to the playoffs. I remember back in the day when I use to feel the same way about the Cowboys. At this time I'm barely still a Cowboys fan. It's one thing to be bad, but to be bad because of the heavy handed egotistic ownership of someone who has no idea what he's doing really tries a person's fandom. The Cowboys continue their steady descent to mediocrity and deterioration. What Jones has done to his own team continues to take more shine off the star of the team who used to represent so much. Thanks to Jones for his clueless, pathetic and destructive ownership of the Cowboys.
It's a new season, but more of the same for the Cowboys. The Cowboys are 1-1 this season, which falls right in line with them finishing 8-8 the last two seasons. Although the Cowboys offensive line has long been a weakness, Jones has failed to properly address this once again this past off season. Someone that played the offensive line in college would seem to realize how important the offensive line is. At least that's what I would think. (I know using logic with Jones is a fools game.) Even when he does address the offensive line, he does it poorly. He drafted Travis Frederick in the first round, many draft analysts thought the Cowboys could have got Frederick in the third round. All those years of Jones ignoring the offensive line in chasing after the bright flashy player have caught up to Dallas. Many of those shiny toy players have turned into busts.
What are some of the things that Jones has mismanaged, the first thing is handling of Tony Romo. I'm not a big fan of Romo, he's choked too many times when the Cowboys need him the most. In Romo's defense, with Jones' poor handling of the Cowboys we won't ever be able to judge Romo's career in a fair way. For instance, how much better would Romo have been if Jones had actually given him a great offensive line in to protect him? I don't know that Romo's record would be better than 1-6 in win or go home games, but there's a good chance that his record would be better.
Also Romo had one more year on his contract and instead of letting the contract play out, Jones threw a lot of money at Romo to make a panic signing. Romo will end up getting the better of that deal as the 33 year old quarterback's skills eventually begin to deteriorate. In line with that the Cowboys have yet to draft the quarterback of the future, Jones idiotically keeps on saying that Romo is the quarterback of the future. Not drafting that future quarterback is going to haunt the Cowboys someday soon, just like they are being haunted by not building a better offensive line. With Dallas' porous offensive line, Romo will probably get injured again and have to miss games. Romo is already dealing with sore ribs from being hit in game 1. The hit came because of that poor offensive line.
Not only did Jones give Romo a ton of money, he also let Romo have much more say in making up game plans and calling plays. Bill Callahan calls the plays, but then Romo ends up doing what the hell he wants to do based on what he sees from the defense. Dallas has been no better or worse than when Garrett was calling plays.
But the Cowboys have an experienced quarterback backing him up right? Yes they do, too bad that's Kyle Orton. Not that Romo is an amazing quarterback, but Orton is a deep drop off in talent.
What about the draft? The ESPN Dallas writers, who seem to want the Cowboys to win as much as I do, often write articles about how the Cowboys drafts pan out? Most of them end up being cut quicker than would be expected. Also not many players go to other teams and find success, which is another sign of how bad of players are that Jones drafts. I realize that Jones has people help him with the draft, but ultimately it's Jones' final decision.
Hand in hand with the draft is the Cowboys trades and signing of free agents. The two worst Cowboy trades that jump to mind, and probably to most Cowboys fans minds, is the trades for Joey Galloway and Roy Williams. Dallas gave up way too much and received so little in both of these deals. The trade especially for the wide receiver Williams was brutal. It was pretty clear that was a bad trade from almost the beginning. When he was finally cut, he left behind about $7 million dollars in dead money. For those who don't know dead money is guaranteed money for a player that goes against the salary cap the season after a player is cut. Due to Jones poor decision making, the Cowboys usually have a lot of dead money on each season's salary cap.
As for free agency signings, all I want to do is mention the names of Mackenzy Bernadeau and Nate Livings. Both of which signed in 2012 and already Livings is no longer with the team. The signing of Doug Free for 4 years and $32 million a few years ago. Yes, it was probably his missed block that lead to Romo's injury.
The Cowboys looked okay in their first game against the Giants, although the Giants don't look like they are a very good team. In their second game Dallas choked against the Chiefs, which shouldn't surprise any long time Cowboys fan. But the bottom will fall out when this team starts losing players to injury. And that will happen because Jones loves to sign injured players. He hopes they'll turn into great players and he gets them at a cut rate price. The bad thing about that is when those players become vital to the team but miss games due to injury. That scenario played out a few times last season.
Anthony Spencer and Jay Ratliff have already missed games. Will Ratliff even play this season? Look for some combination of Sean Lee, DeMarco Murray, Miles Austin, Morris Claiborne or other important players to miss time due to injuries.
Actually Jay Ratliff is a great example of how bad of a GM Jones is. Ratliff misses much of last season due to "injury" and also goes after Jones in the locker room. However Jones keeps him on the roster. Ratliff's sack numbers have dropped the last 5 seasons and he had 0 sacks last season but Jones still keeps him. Ratliff gets in an drunken driving accident in the offseason, Jones still keeps him around. (Josh Brent would still be on the team, even after killing someone, if he hadn't retired.) Ratliff doesn't work out with the Cowboys trainers in the off season and is put on the IR for the first 6 weeks of the season. Guess what happens? Yes, Ratliff is still on the team and has a very expensive contract. That's a contract he should have never been signed to. Yes, Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
What do these names have in common? Wade Phillips, Barry Switzer, Jason Garrett, Dave Campo and Chan Gailey. Yes, that's right all 5 people have been head coaches/ puppets of Jerry and the Cowboys. I know that technically Barry Switzer won a Super Bowl. Being honest though, he won the Super Bowl by staying out of the way and taking advantage of the players Jimmy Johnson drafted. When those players left or got too old, Switzer's teams weren't very good. Don't even remind me of the 5-11 seasons of Campo, the horrendous coaching of Phillips, the poorly managed games of Garrett and I can't remember anything about Chan Gailey's coaching tenure (or is it manure?) Jerruh you've done a damn fine job of hiring coaches. Yes, Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
Even when Garrett gets fired during or after the season that won't fix anything. The clueless Jones will only hire another puppet. It also doesn't help that Jones undermines his coaches like taking away the play calling from Garrett. By the way Garrett handled that you can tell he didn't want to give up the play calling.
But no one is better at selling a mediocre product than Jerry Jones, you've got to give him credit for that. Before the season started, he said he was so excited that he couldn't even sleep. That's part of his snake oil salesman personality. I use to buy into that snake oil too, but after the Cowboys have failed for so many years I gave up on Jones' hype machine a couple of years ago. Yes, Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
Also Jones is desperate to win a Super Bowl, but he's determined to do it his way. But apparently two playoff wins in 17 years isn't enough of a hint that he has no clue what he's doing. He's protected himself by surrounding himself with yes men and puppets, who's job security ties into agreeing with Jones.
Jones says all the right things about winning, although he hasn't changed much the last several years. He keeps on doing the same things, but expects the team to change. That's why I don't believe Jones when he says he really wants the Cowboys to win. Because if he really wanted the Cowboys to win, he would make significant changes. Reportedly the Cowboys had $125 million profit last year, that's what he really cares about.
Sadly the Cowboys will remain a mediocre franchise, again two playoff wins in the last 17 years, while someone with the last name of Jones owns/destroys the Cowboys. Yes, Jerry Jones you are the problem. When are you going to realize that? I'm sure he has, it's just his ego won't let him get out of the way.
themusicaddict
Dodgers Daily, September 17th, 2013: Dodgers Win Big, Magic Number Is 2!
Hello,
On Tuesday the Dodgers did something they haven't done for a long time, they scored a lot of runs. After scoring 1, 3, 2, 3, 3 and 1 run in their 6 previous games, LA exploded for 9 runs. LA also beat the team closest to them in the NL West, the Diamondbacks, and were able to reduce their magic number to 2. LA can clinch the NL West on Wednesday with another victory over Arizona.
Of course it helps the Dodgers offense when they have two of their best players playing for the first time in a while. Matt Kemp last started a game on July 21st and last played when he ineffectively pinch hit Monday night. But Kemp reintroduced himself in a big way last night. He was 4 for 4 and raised his batting average to .275. He also had 3 more RBIs and now has 30 RBIs this season. I think LA can win the World Series without him, but obviously I'd prefer to have Kemp in the Dodgers lineup.
Remember the last time Kemp came back from injury he had a monster game, unfortunately at the end of that game he injured himself. He has been out since then. Thankfully he didn't injure himself on Tuesday night and I thought it was prudent that Don Mattingly didn't have him play the whole game. Kemp has been a little fragile this season. I hope the Dodgers take the slow but steady method of reintegrating Kemp into the team.
Also Hanley Ramirez was back after he missed 4 games, he has also been a bit fragile this year. He had another good game, he was only 1 for 2 but he earned 3 walks. He was on base 4 times and he scored 3 runs. Ramirez is hitting .343 this season, leading the Dodgers in that category. He's second on the team in on base percentage, his is .397. He only trails Yasiel Puig, who's at .401 OBP.
Although the Dodgers had 12 hits, Puig didn't have any of those hits. After his incredibly torrid start, he's cooled down considerably. He was 0 for 5 and his batting average is still great at .331.
Zack Greinke had the kind of game that I was hoping that he would have. He was very good in his six innings, giving up 6 hits and only 2 runs. He added 5 strikeouts, improves to 15-3 and lowers his ERA to 2.75. I hear Clayton Kershaw's name mentioned a lot in the Cy Young chase, but shouldn't Greinke also be getting some love?
Wednesday night the Dodgers will play the Diamondbacks in the third game of this four game series. The teams have split the first two games. Pitching tonight for the Dodgers to clinch the NL West will be none other than ... Stephen Fife (4-3, 3.38 ERA). He's scheduled to face off against Brandon McCarthy (4-9, 4.58 ERA). Kershaw was suppose to pitch Wednesday, but his start was pushed back to Saturday to give him more rest. I whole heartedly agree with that as I want the Dodgers to be as ready as possible for the playoffs.
I'm so giddy the Dodgers are going to the playoffs! And as always thanks to ESPN for all the great information from their website that I use in my blogs.
themusicaddict
On Tuesday the Dodgers did something they haven't done for a long time, they scored a lot of runs. After scoring 1, 3, 2, 3, 3 and 1 run in their 6 previous games, LA exploded for 9 runs. LA also beat the team closest to them in the NL West, the Diamondbacks, and were able to reduce their magic number to 2. LA can clinch the NL West on Wednesday with another victory over Arizona.
Of course it helps the Dodgers offense when they have two of their best players playing for the first time in a while. Matt Kemp last started a game on July 21st and last played when he ineffectively pinch hit Monday night. But Kemp reintroduced himself in a big way last night. He was 4 for 4 and raised his batting average to .275. He also had 3 more RBIs and now has 30 RBIs this season. I think LA can win the World Series without him, but obviously I'd prefer to have Kemp in the Dodgers lineup.
Remember the last time Kemp came back from injury he had a monster game, unfortunately at the end of that game he injured himself. He has been out since then. Thankfully he didn't injure himself on Tuesday night and I thought it was prudent that Don Mattingly didn't have him play the whole game. Kemp has been a little fragile this season. I hope the Dodgers take the slow but steady method of reintegrating Kemp into the team.
Also Hanley Ramirez was back after he missed 4 games, he has also been a bit fragile this year. He had another good game, he was only 1 for 2 but he earned 3 walks. He was on base 4 times and he scored 3 runs. Ramirez is hitting .343 this season, leading the Dodgers in that category. He's second on the team in on base percentage, his is .397. He only trails Yasiel Puig, who's at .401 OBP.
Although the Dodgers had 12 hits, Puig didn't have any of those hits. After his incredibly torrid start, he's cooled down considerably. He was 0 for 5 and his batting average is still great at .331.
Zack Greinke had the kind of game that I was hoping that he would have. He was very good in his six innings, giving up 6 hits and only 2 runs. He added 5 strikeouts, improves to 15-3 and lowers his ERA to 2.75. I hear Clayton Kershaw's name mentioned a lot in the Cy Young chase, but shouldn't Greinke also be getting some love?
Wednesday night the Dodgers will play the Diamondbacks in the third game of this four game series. The teams have split the first two games. Pitching tonight for the Dodgers to clinch the NL West will be none other than ... Stephen Fife (4-3, 3.38 ERA). He's scheduled to face off against Brandon McCarthy (4-9, 4.58 ERA). Kershaw was suppose to pitch Wednesday, but his start was pushed back to Saturday to give him more rest. I whole heartedly agree with that as I want the Dodgers to be as ready as possible for the playoffs.
I'm so giddy the Dodgers are going to the playoffs! And as always thanks to ESPN for all the great information from their website that I use in my blogs.
themusicaddict
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 16th, 2013: Dodgers Officially In A Funk, Lost 9 of 12
Hello,
As a person who's seen his teams fall apart way too many times I've been very nervous about this LA Dodgers season. (I'm also a Cowboys fan and it's amazing how that team continues to fall apart, yet Jerry Jones still won't or can't admit he's the Cowboys biggest problem.) I've often wondered if this season is too good to be true? The Dodgers started out poorly and then they started playing pretty well about 3 months ago. However as they've kept winning, they started to run out of things to play for. LA also has a few players who are injured and a couple that seem to be only one wrong step from a season ending injury. What I'm trying to say this recent poor run doesn't surprise me very much, perhaps it's even inevitable. LA has lost 4 games in a row and 9 of 12 games. Their magic number remains at 4, it seems to have been that for the last several days.
I'll note though that neither Carl Crawford or Hanley Ramirez played on Monday. Although LA only scored 1 run and lost, I'd rather players get as much rest now as they can. Matt Kemp played in his first game since July 21st and only was used as a pinch hitter. He looked terrible in striking out to end the game. But then I've thought that he hasn't looked right for most of the season, he's struggled all season. Even if he's near full health now, I doubt that he'll reach his level of last season. He's missed too many games at this point and I wonder should the Dodgers just shut him down for the season?
In Monday's inept performance the Dodgers only produced 4 hits. LA has barely averaged more than two runs over their last 6 games, only scoring 13 runs in those games. Because of their anemic offense, they've slipped to 18th in MLB for runs scored. The four teams ahead of them in runs scored are highly unlikely to make the playoffs. Those teams are the Diamondbacks, Yankees, Nationals and Royals.
Despite their recent poor play LA is still well on their way to winning the NL West, they still lead the Diamondbacks by 9.5 games. Arizona is the only other NL West team that still has any kind of chance to reach the playoffs.
Sadly since LA only scored 1 run, they wasted Hyun Jin-Ryu's excellent game. Ryu pitched 8 innings, only giving up 2 hits and 2 runs. Ryu drops to 13-7 on the season and decreased his ERA to 3.03. Along with his great pitching outing he also walked and scored the Dodgers lone run.
On Tuesday Zack Greinke needs to shut down the Diamondbacks and the Dodgers offense needs to scratch out a few runs. Greinke is 14-3, with a 2.74 ERA, and needs to come through with the kind of game he's being paid a ton of money for. The struggling Dodgers offense won't have much of a break tonight, as Diamondbacks scheduled pitcher Patrick Corbin is 14-6 with a 2.92 ERA this season.
If LA can win two of the next 3 games they'll clinch the NL West. At that point they can get a bit more rest as they prepare for the playoffs. LA also still has a chance for the best record in the NL, although they trail the Braves by 3 games for that honor.
themusicaddict
As a person who's seen his teams fall apart way too many times I've been very nervous about this LA Dodgers season. (I'm also a Cowboys fan and it's amazing how that team continues to fall apart, yet Jerry Jones still won't or can't admit he's the Cowboys biggest problem.) I've often wondered if this season is too good to be true? The Dodgers started out poorly and then they started playing pretty well about 3 months ago. However as they've kept winning, they started to run out of things to play for. LA also has a few players who are injured and a couple that seem to be only one wrong step from a season ending injury. What I'm trying to say this recent poor run doesn't surprise me very much, perhaps it's even inevitable. LA has lost 4 games in a row and 9 of 12 games. Their magic number remains at 4, it seems to have been that for the last several days.
I'll note though that neither Carl Crawford or Hanley Ramirez played on Monday. Although LA only scored 1 run and lost, I'd rather players get as much rest now as they can. Matt Kemp played in his first game since July 21st and only was used as a pinch hitter. He looked terrible in striking out to end the game. But then I've thought that he hasn't looked right for most of the season, he's struggled all season. Even if he's near full health now, I doubt that he'll reach his level of last season. He's missed too many games at this point and I wonder should the Dodgers just shut him down for the season?
In Monday's inept performance the Dodgers only produced 4 hits. LA has barely averaged more than two runs over their last 6 games, only scoring 13 runs in those games. Because of their anemic offense, they've slipped to 18th in MLB for runs scored. The four teams ahead of them in runs scored are highly unlikely to make the playoffs. Those teams are the Diamondbacks, Yankees, Nationals and Royals.
Despite their recent poor play LA is still well on their way to winning the NL West, they still lead the Diamondbacks by 9.5 games. Arizona is the only other NL West team that still has any kind of chance to reach the playoffs.
Sadly since LA only scored 1 run, they wasted Hyun Jin-Ryu's excellent game. Ryu pitched 8 innings, only giving up 2 hits and 2 runs. Ryu drops to 13-7 on the season and decreased his ERA to 3.03. Along with his great pitching outing he also walked and scored the Dodgers lone run.
On Tuesday Zack Greinke needs to shut down the Diamondbacks and the Dodgers offense needs to scratch out a few runs. Greinke is 14-3, with a 2.74 ERA, and needs to come through with the kind of game he's being paid a ton of money for. The struggling Dodgers offense won't have much of a break tonight, as Diamondbacks scheduled pitcher Patrick Corbin is 14-6 with a 2.92 ERA this season.
If LA can win two of the next 3 games they'll clinch the NL West. At that point they can get a bit more rest as they prepare for the playoffs. LA also still has a chance for the best record in the NL, although they trail the Braves by 3 games for that honor.
themusicaddict
Monday, September 16, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 15th, 2013: Dodgers Lose Again, Continue Fade
Hello,
The Dodgers went into their 4 game series at home against the Giants with a solid chance to clinch the NL West. However the Dodgers offense failed to show up and the NL West coronation wasn't meant to be. The Dodgers lost 3 of 4 games and hopefully were feeling a little embarrassed as they flew to Arizona. Despite their recent struggles LA's magic number remains at 4. And it's still not a matter if they win the NL West, it's only a matter of when they win their division.
LA has lost 3 in a row, 4 of 5 and 7 of 10 games. Their offense remains inept, only scoring 3 runs in this game. LA has scored 12 runs in the last 5 games. By comparison the team closest to the Dodgers in the NL West, Arizona, has scored 29 runs in their last 5 games. In the MLB, LA has slipped to 17th place for runs scored, they trail the 14th place Diamondbacks by 24 runs.
Of course that points to how good of a pitching staff that the Dodgers have. Of course that LA pitching staff has struggled a bit as well, especially in that 19 run debacle. LA needs Hyun-Jin Ryu, Zack Greinke, Clayton Kershaw and Ricky Nolasco in that order to step up this week. Fortunately for LA as they are playing Arizona, the Dodgers can reduce their magic number quickly. Or of course they'll give the Diamondbacks a bit more hope with a shaky performance.
In the NL Central, both the Pirates and Cardinals won and remain tied for first place. The Reds have fallen back a bit, they trail the NL Central co-leaders by 3.5 games. Quite likely the Cardinals or Pirates will win the division and the other team will host the Reds in the 1 game playoff. For the NL Wild Card we know that it's highly likely that two NL Central teams will be playing. The next closest team is the Nationals, who are 4.5 games back of Cincinnati. It continues to shape up to be a tight race to the very end of the season. Listening to sports radio yesterday they were talking about the possibilities of needing to play tie breakers. That would cause complete chaos and make the playoffs even more fun than usual.
In a great show of class the Red Sox gave presents to Mariano Rivera last night as a tribute to the great career he has had. It's a fitting tribute to the kind of player, the kind of person and the kind of career that Rivera has had. In last night's game, Rivera shook hands with fans when he went out to the bullpen last night. That was one of several very nice moments last night. Bravo to the Red Sox and Rivera. Thanks to the Sandman, Rivera, for his many memorable moments. Honestly I can's say I'll miss him and his cut fastball that much though. I think it would also be a nice moment if the Red Sox win a World Series title to further honor Rivera. (Obviously something similar won't be done for Alex Rodriguez, no one will be happier than the Yankees when he's no longer playing professional baseball.)
While the Dodgers aren't playing well, thankfully they aren't falling apart as bad as the Rangers, the Red Sox are steamrolling anyone that gets in their path. Boston swept the Yankees and scored 22 runs in those 3 games. (That's 10 more runs than the Dodgers scored in their last 5 games.) Boston leads the Rays by 9.5 games in the AL East. More importantly they lead the A's by 3 games for best record in the AL. The Red Sox remain red hot by winning 3 games in a row and 8 of 10 games.
They get a well deserved day off on Monday. Then they start a 6 game home stand on Tuesday, the Red Sox will continue to sharpen their claws on the AL East as they welcome the Orioles and the Blue Jays.
Next to the NL Central race, the most exciting playoff race appears to be in the AL Wild Card. Both Texas (1-9 their last 10) and Tampa Bay (4-6 their last 10 games) continue to fade but still hold on to the Wild Card lead. Cleveland looks to be the surprise team of the season if they can sneak into the playoffs. Terry Francona has done a hell of a job with the Indians as they are only 1/2 game behind the AL Wild Card co-leaders. Baltimore is only 2.5 games back, too bad they have to play the red hot Red Sox 3 games in Boston. New York is 3 games back, but their injuries continue to pile up. Do the Yanks have enough healthy players and resolve to mount a late charge? Kansas City is 3.5 games back, but probably out of it.
With 5 of my teams likely participating in the playoffs I look forward to a great finale to this season.
themusicaddict
The Dodgers went into their 4 game series at home against the Giants with a solid chance to clinch the NL West. However the Dodgers offense failed to show up and the NL West coronation wasn't meant to be. The Dodgers lost 3 of 4 games and hopefully were feeling a little embarrassed as they flew to Arizona. Despite their recent struggles LA's magic number remains at 4. And it's still not a matter if they win the NL West, it's only a matter of when they win their division.
LA has lost 3 in a row, 4 of 5 and 7 of 10 games. Their offense remains inept, only scoring 3 runs in this game. LA has scored 12 runs in the last 5 games. By comparison the team closest to the Dodgers in the NL West, Arizona, has scored 29 runs in their last 5 games. In the MLB, LA has slipped to 17th place for runs scored, they trail the 14th place Diamondbacks by 24 runs.
Of course that points to how good of a pitching staff that the Dodgers have. Of course that LA pitching staff has struggled a bit as well, especially in that 19 run debacle. LA needs Hyun-Jin Ryu, Zack Greinke, Clayton Kershaw and Ricky Nolasco in that order to step up this week. Fortunately for LA as they are playing Arizona, the Dodgers can reduce their magic number quickly. Or of course they'll give the Diamondbacks a bit more hope with a shaky performance.
In the NL Central, both the Pirates and Cardinals won and remain tied for first place. The Reds have fallen back a bit, they trail the NL Central co-leaders by 3.5 games. Quite likely the Cardinals or Pirates will win the division and the other team will host the Reds in the 1 game playoff. For the NL Wild Card we know that it's highly likely that two NL Central teams will be playing. The next closest team is the Nationals, who are 4.5 games back of Cincinnati. It continues to shape up to be a tight race to the very end of the season. Listening to sports radio yesterday they were talking about the possibilities of needing to play tie breakers. That would cause complete chaos and make the playoffs even more fun than usual.
In a great show of class the Red Sox gave presents to Mariano Rivera last night as a tribute to the great career he has had. It's a fitting tribute to the kind of player, the kind of person and the kind of career that Rivera has had. In last night's game, Rivera shook hands with fans when he went out to the bullpen last night. That was one of several very nice moments last night. Bravo to the Red Sox and Rivera. Thanks to the Sandman, Rivera, for his many memorable moments. Honestly I can's say I'll miss him and his cut fastball that much though. I think it would also be a nice moment if the Red Sox win a World Series title to further honor Rivera. (Obviously something similar won't be done for Alex Rodriguez, no one will be happier than the Yankees when he's no longer playing professional baseball.)
While the Dodgers aren't playing well, thankfully they aren't falling apart as bad as the Rangers, the Red Sox are steamrolling anyone that gets in their path. Boston swept the Yankees and scored 22 runs in those 3 games. (That's 10 more runs than the Dodgers scored in their last 5 games.) Boston leads the Rays by 9.5 games in the AL East. More importantly they lead the A's by 3 games for best record in the AL. The Red Sox remain red hot by winning 3 games in a row and 8 of 10 games.
They get a well deserved day off on Monday. Then they start a 6 game home stand on Tuesday, the Red Sox will continue to sharpen their claws on the AL East as they welcome the Orioles and the Blue Jays.
Next to the NL Central race, the most exciting playoff race appears to be in the AL Wild Card. Both Texas (1-9 their last 10) and Tampa Bay (4-6 their last 10 games) continue to fade but still hold on to the Wild Card lead. Cleveland looks to be the surprise team of the season if they can sneak into the playoffs. Terry Francona has done a hell of a job with the Indians as they are only 1/2 game behind the AL Wild Card co-leaders. Baltimore is only 2.5 games back, too bad they have to play the red hot Red Sox 3 games in Boston. New York is 3 games back, but their injuries continue to pile up. Do the Yanks have enough healthy players and resolve to mount a late charge? Kansas City is 3.5 games back, but probably out of it.
With 5 of my teams likely participating in the playoffs I look forward to a great finale to this season.
themusicaddict
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 14th, 2013: Dodgers Destroyed, Magic Number Remains At 4, Red Sox Continue To Roll
Hello,
The less said about the Giants thrashing of the Dodgers the better. San Francisco crunched the Dodgers in LA 19-3. Although I'll note that the Dodgers have only won 3 of their last 10 games, that is a bit concerning. In LA's last 5 games they've only scored 14 runs, which is 5 runs less than what the Giants scored on Saturday. Also the Diamondbacks won on Saturday, so LA's magic number remains at 4. I don't take anything for granted any more and will be nervous until LA finally clinches the NL West.
One good thing about Saturday's massacre is that a lot of players got to play. Once a game gets out of hand like that, you might as well rest those players who you'll need later. Hanley Ramirez didn't play as he's still resting up his sore back. He should be back next week. Also Matt Kemp continues to slowly but surely recover and he may be back next week as well.
On Saturday it was just not meant to be. Ricky Nolasco had put together several good outings before yesterday's stink bomb. But there will always be games like this each season, so it's not a big worry. I would feel so much better if LA wins today and clinches the NL West early this upcoming week.
The Pirates and Cardinals are tied once again for first place in the NL Central. Both teams are 86-62 and have a 99.8% chance of reaching the playoffs. Looking at the standings I was taken back yet again by how long the MLB season is. Both teams have already played 148 games and yet both still have 14 more games to play! I'm sorry, but that's absolutely crazy. Meanwhile the Reds are in third place, only 2.5 games behind the two co-leaders. This looks like it will be the most exciting race going down the stretch.
Meanwhile the Red Sox may be the team playing the best right now. They've pretty much sewn up the AL East and it looks like the Red Sox are well on their way to having home field advantage through the entire playoffs. One might think that Boston doesn't have much to play for right now. However it seems Boston still thinks they have plenty to play for. Boston is playing their arch rival right now as they still act like they have plenty to play for. Of course when you average 5.21 runs a game, like Boston does, that will also cover up a lot of deficiencies.
The Red Sox have won the first 2 games in their series with the Yankees at Fenway. On Saturday Mike Napoli continued his hot play for the Red Sox. He was 2 for 2 and was walked twice. He also scored twice and is hitting .261 on the season. Jon Lester also had a great start for the Red Sox, improving to 14-8. With Franklin Morales pitching the 9th inning, Koji Uehara was able to get the day off. Tonight the third and final game of the series will be on Sunday Night Baseball.
themusicaddict
The less said about the Giants thrashing of the Dodgers the better. San Francisco crunched the Dodgers in LA 19-3. Although I'll note that the Dodgers have only won 3 of their last 10 games, that is a bit concerning. In LA's last 5 games they've only scored 14 runs, which is 5 runs less than what the Giants scored on Saturday. Also the Diamondbacks won on Saturday, so LA's magic number remains at 4. I don't take anything for granted any more and will be nervous until LA finally clinches the NL West.
One good thing about Saturday's massacre is that a lot of players got to play. Once a game gets out of hand like that, you might as well rest those players who you'll need later. Hanley Ramirez didn't play as he's still resting up his sore back. He should be back next week. Also Matt Kemp continues to slowly but surely recover and he may be back next week as well.
On Saturday it was just not meant to be. Ricky Nolasco had put together several good outings before yesterday's stink bomb. But there will always be games like this each season, so it's not a big worry. I would feel so much better if LA wins today and clinches the NL West early this upcoming week.
The Pirates and Cardinals are tied once again for first place in the NL Central. Both teams are 86-62 and have a 99.8% chance of reaching the playoffs. Looking at the standings I was taken back yet again by how long the MLB season is. Both teams have already played 148 games and yet both still have 14 more games to play! I'm sorry, but that's absolutely crazy. Meanwhile the Reds are in third place, only 2.5 games behind the two co-leaders. This looks like it will be the most exciting race going down the stretch.
Meanwhile the Red Sox may be the team playing the best right now. They've pretty much sewn up the AL East and it looks like the Red Sox are well on their way to having home field advantage through the entire playoffs. One might think that Boston doesn't have much to play for right now. However it seems Boston still thinks they have plenty to play for. Boston is playing their arch rival right now as they still act like they have plenty to play for. Of course when you average 5.21 runs a game, like Boston does, that will also cover up a lot of deficiencies.
The Red Sox have won the first 2 games in their series with the Yankees at Fenway. On Saturday Mike Napoli continued his hot play for the Red Sox. He was 2 for 2 and was walked twice. He also scored twice and is hitting .261 on the season. Jon Lester also had a great start for the Red Sox, improving to 14-8. With Franklin Morales pitching the 9th inning, Koji Uehara was able to get the day off. Tonight the third and final game of the series will be on Sunday Night Baseball.
themusicaddict
Saturday, September 14, 2013
themusicaddict's Great Songs From All Eras: From Doo Wop to the Virginmarys
Hello,
Here are a bunch of great songs from all eras from the 50's to the modern day. Enjoy. I've tried to keep this in chronological order more or less.
Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs "Stay":
The Monotones "Book of Love":
Skeeter Davis' "End Of The World":
Waylon Jennings "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way":
Joan Osborne's "Right Hand Man":
Dido's "Hunter":
Josh Joplin Group's "Camera One":
Bruce Springsteen's "Lonesome Day":
The Blue Sky Riders, which features Kenny Loggins, "Dream":
American Bang's "Wild and Young":
Metric's "Gimme Sympathy":
Brass Bed's "I'll Be There With Bells On":
aprilemade's "Sunday Girl":
Virginmary's "Bang, Bang, Bang":
themusicaddict
Here are a bunch of great songs from all eras from the 50's to the modern day. Enjoy. I've tried to keep this in chronological order more or less.
Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs "Stay":
The Monotones "Book of Love":
Skeeter Davis' "End Of The World":
Waylon Jennings "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way":
Joan Osborne's "Right Hand Man":
Dido's "Hunter":
Josh Joplin Group's "Camera One":
Bruce Springsteen's "Lonesome Day":
The Blue Sky Riders, which features Kenny Loggins, "Dream":
American Bang's "Wild and Young":
Metric's "Gimme Sympathy":
Brass Bed's "I'll Be There With Bells On":
aprilemade's "Sunday Girl":
Virginmary's "Bang, Bang, Bang":
themusicaddict
Dodgers Daily, September 13th, 2013: Dodgers Lose, Dodgers Magic Number Is 4, Chris Davis Hits 50
Hello,
Both the Dodgers and Diamondbacks lost on Friday night. With the Diamondbacks losing that reduces the Dodgers magic number to 4. I may have been a bit optimistic when I wrote that the Dodgers would probably clinch the NL West by this weekend. For LA to do that they have to win both of their games this weekend and the Diamondbacks would have to lose their two weekend games. I just don't see that happening with the Dodgers resuming being a low scoring team. LA will probably clinch the NL West during the 4 game series they against the Diamondbacks starting Monday.
The Dodgers are tied with the Royals for 16th most runs in MLB. The only team that has a legitimate chance of reaching the playoffs who've scored fewer runs than LA is the Pirates. Pittsburgh has crossed the plate 22 less times than LA. (Meanwhile the Red Sox continue to run away with the MLB runs title, they've scored 777 runs as of Friday. They've scored 32 more runs than the Tigers.) LA has only scored 5 runs in their last 3 games, including 2 runs on Friday night. When the Dodgers score few runs, who is pitching many of those games?
That's correct the best pitcher in MLB, Clayton Kershaw. Kershaw didn't have a great game, he gave up 8 hits and 3 runs in 7 innings. In the loss he only had 6 strikeouts, Kershaw drops to 14-9 and still has a sterling 1.94 ERA. He leads MLB in ERA by .25 runs less than Miami's volatile Jose Fernandez. Kershaw is also 3rd place in strikeouts but only tied for 10th in wins, that has a lot to do with lack of run support.
Now on to that Dodgers offense that forgets how to score whenever Kershaw takes the mound. LA did finish with 10 hits, but was only able to turn those 10 hits into 2 runs. Jose Uribe hit his 11th homer of the season and also had two hits. Uribe is hitting .278 this season. Newest Dodger batter Michael Young was 2 for 3 and is also hitting .278 this season. The third Dodger who had a multiple hit game was Mark Ellis and he's hitting .273 this season.
Meanwhile in the American League the Red Sox continue racing to the AL East title. Powered by Jarrod Saltalamacchia's 7th inning grand slam, Boston defeated New York 8-4. By beating the Yankees yet again, Boston's magic number is 7. Sometime in the next few days they should clinch the AL East. Of course they want more than that, they are also headed towards having the best record in the AL. Boston wants home field advantage up to and through the World Series. They lead the A's, who's the next closest team to them, by 3 games for AL's best record.
The Orioles strengthened their very slim playoff chances by beating the Blue Jays 5-3 in Toronto. Chris Davis hit his 50th homer this season, he becomes the 27th MLB player to join the 50 homer club. He's the first to do so since Jose Bautista did it in 2010. Also he's only the third player in MLB history to have 50 homers and 40 doubles in a season. He joins Babe Ruth and Albert Belle in that very exclusive club.
Tampa Bay also won on Friday night, Boston still leads them by 8.5 games in the AL East. Obviously Boston is the only team with a great chance to win the AL East. If any other AL East team wants to make the playoffs they'll have to make it via the AL Wild Card. Right now the two AL Wild Cards are Texas and Tampa Bay. Cleveland is 1.5 games behind Tampa Bay. The Yankees are 2 games behind and the Orioles are 2.5 games out of the AL Wild Card.
The Orioles have only won 5 of their last 10 games, of their remaining 15 games they'd probably have to win 10 to 15 games to sneak into the playoffs. Baltimore still has 6 more games to play against Boston and 4 more games against Tampa Bay. They have a huge mountain to climb just for the right to play in the one game AL Wild Card.
Oakland jumped out to a 9-2 lead and looked like they were headed for an easy win. That was until the Rangers scored 6 runs in the 8th inning and made the game much more interesting. However the A's held on to win 9-8 and lead the fading Rangers by 4.5 games in the AL West.
themusicaddict
Both the Dodgers and Diamondbacks lost on Friday night. With the Diamondbacks losing that reduces the Dodgers magic number to 4. I may have been a bit optimistic when I wrote that the Dodgers would probably clinch the NL West by this weekend. For LA to do that they have to win both of their games this weekend and the Diamondbacks would have to lose their two weekend games. I just don't see that happening with the Dodgers resuming being a low scoring team. LA will probably clinch the NL West during the 4 game series they against the Diamondbacks starting Monday.
The Dodgers are tied with the Royals for 16th most runs in MLB. The only team that has a legitimate chance of reaching the playoffs who've scored fewer runs than LA is the Pirates. Pittsburgh has crossed the plate 22 less times than LA. (Meanwhile the Red Sox continue to run away with the MLB runs title, they've scored 777 runs as of Friday. They've scored 32 more runs than the Tigers.) LA has only scored 5 runs in their last 3 games, including 2 runs on Friday night. When the Dodgers score few runs, who is pitching many of those games?
That's correct the best pitcher in MLB, Clayton Kershaw. Kershaw didn't have a great game, he gave up 8 hits and 3 runs in 7 innings. In the loss he only had 6 strikeouts, Kershaw drops to 14-9 and still has a sterling 1.94 ERA. He leads MLB in ERA by .25 runs less than Miami's volatile Jose Fernandez. Kershaw is also 3rd place in strikeouts but only tied for 10th in wins, that has a lot to do with lack of run support.
Now on to that Dodgers offense that forgets how to score whenever Kershaw takes the mound. LA did finish with 10 hits, but was only able to turn those 10 hits into 2 runs. Jose Uribe hit his 11th homer of the season and also had two hits. Uribe is hitting .278 this season. Newest Dodger batter Michael Young was 2 for 3 and is also hitting .278 this season. The third Dodger who had a multiple hit game was Mark Ellis and he's hitting .273 this season.
Meanwhile in the American League the Red Sox continue racing to the AL East title. Powered by Jarrod Saltalamacchia's 7th inning grand slam, Boston defeated New York 8-4. By beating the Yankees yet again, Boston's magic number is 7. Sometime in the next few days they should clinch the AL East. Of course they want more than that, they are also headed towards having the best record in the AL. Boston wants home field advantage up to and through the World Series. They lead the A's, who's the next closest team to them, by 3 games for AL's best record.
The Orioles strengthened their very slim playoff chances by beating the Blue Jays 5-3 in Toronto. Chris Davis hit his 50th homer this season, he becomes the 27th MLB player to join the 50 homer club. He's the first to do so since Jose Bautista did it in 2010. Also he's only the third player in MLB history to have 50 homers and 40 doubles in a season. He joins Babe Ruth and Albert Belle in that very exclusive club.
Tampa Bay also won on Friday night, Boston still leads them by 8.5 games in the AL East. Obviously Boston is the only team with a great chance to win the AL East. If any other AL East team wants to make the playoffs they'll have to make it via the AL Wild Card. Right now the two AL Wild Cards are Texas and Tampa Bay. Cleveland is 1.5 games behind Tampa Bay. The Yankees are 2 games behind and the Orioles are 2.5 games out of the AL Wild Card.
The Orioles have only won 5 of their last 10 games, of their remaining 15 games they'd probably have to win 10 to 15 games to sneak into the playoffs. Baltimore still has 6 more games to play against Boston and 4 more games against Tampa Bay. They have a huge mountain to climb just for the right to play in the one game AL Wild Card.
Oakland jumped out to a 9-2 lead and looked like they were headed for an easy win. That was until the Rangers scored 6 runs in the 8th inning and made the game much more interesting. However the A's held on to win 9-8 and lead the fading Rangers by 4.5 games in the AL West.
themusicaddict
Friday, September 13, 2013
Questionable Fall Television 2013: The Good, The Bad and the Desperate
Hello,
I'm not going to lie to you, many of this Fall's new shows look to be terrible. With this be the worst Fall for new shows in years? From what I've seen so far I'd have to say "yes". I may write more about this further in a later blog, but here's a quick sample. Shows I'll not be watching this Fall include "Betrayal", "Hostages", "Once Upon Time In Wonderland", "Dads", "We Are Men", "The Millers" and "Super Fun Night". Most of those comedies look sad and pathetic and I don't have a lot of hope that they will actually be funny. I expect "Betrayal", "We Are Men" and "Dads" to have a good chance of being cancelled quickly.
The show that I look forward to most this fall is "Sleepy Hollow", I look forward to seeing it's season premiere Monday night. I'll warn you though that since this show is on Fox, which means there will be an inordinate amount of commercials. I strongly suggest you record this on a DVR and start watching about 20 minutes into the show. Don't worry about the Monday Night Football game, it looks to be about as exciting as "Hostages". (Fox is the irresponsible party for "The Following", a show that was as dumb as it could be. You had to throw morality, good taste and common sense out the window to enjoy that show.)
Thanks to my friends at Comcast I've already seen the premieres of two shows. One was decent and one was brutal. The brutal show was "Ironside", the remake of the Raymond Burr 70's cop show. I like Blair Underwood, but who talked him in to participating in this stupid looking show. I'm so tired of the stock cop or detective who'll do anything to find out the truth. He'll break as many laws as needed to bring a criminal to justice. Read that last sentence back and you realize how little sense that concept makes. Even the shows tagline is boring: "His Team, His Town, His Rules". Yawn. I have good news for "Ironside" though, it won't be the first show cancelled. Some other dumb show will be cancelled before "Ironside's" October 2nd premiere.
The other new fall show that I've seen is a bit better. That's "Trophy Wife" which stars the lovely Malin Ackerman. This show had a few laughs, but is a bit heavy with wives and ex-wives. Will the producers find enough time for the ex-wives in a half-hour show? Will we want them too as both of the ex-wives aren't very interesting? I'm hoping the focus will remain on Ackerman's character. "Trophy Wife" won't win any Emmys, but should be a pleasant enough diversion for those times you just want to turn your brain off. If nothing else you can always enjoy Ackerman.
Returning shows that look to continue to disappoint include "Nashville", a show that had one of the worst finales ever. When the focus was on the music "Nashville" could soar, but too many soap opera details usually pulled it down. Who was the non-genius who allowed the very dumb "Revolution" a second season? In it's first season I gave it a chance, but was driven away by it's dumb story lines and bad acting. "Revolution" should change it's name to "Devolution" and it will be eligible for a truth in advertising award.
I'm a big fan of "The Walking Dead", but let's be honest the third season finale was brutally bad. It also featured too many commercials- the greed of corporate America raising it's ugly head again. I have no idea why the Governor is coming back for Season 4. For all the hype that character received he was damn boring. I think this season could be the beginning of the end for "The Walking Dead". Maybe not though as someone keeps on renewing the should have been dead long ago "American Idol".
Other shows I will give a chance, providing there's nothing else on TV, are "The Goldbergs", "Almost Human", "The Crazy Ones" (although I have very low expectations for that show) and the Michael J. Fox show. That last show I'm watching just because I like Fox so much, although again I don't have real high expectations.
Who knew that the summer season would be the best time for TV? This summer included the BBC America's very smart "Broadchurch", the 5th episode was a classic hour of television. "The Bridge" has been good, although I quickly become tired of all the gratuitous sex. The producers of this show are stooping to Miley Cyrus like low levels of taste. For how to be a solid show without cheapening your show "The Bridge" should look to the people behind "Broadchurch".
This summer has had solid seasons of "Rizzoli and Isles" and the always great "Longmire". I'm glad it was recently renewed for a third season. After having a solid first couple of seasons, "Falling Skies" lost a lot of quality in Season 3. I'll probably watch Season 4, but that show is about done. Lastly "Low Winter Sun" isn't the best show ever, but Frank Agnew is a great character. Although he killed a fellow cop and seems to have been played by Geddes, Agnew comes off as a great guy. I hope Agnew finds his Katia by the end of this season, because of bad ratings this likely will be the show's only season. This show's tagline is nearly perfect "Good Man. Cop. Killer".
Also there was "The Killing", this season started out strong, but ultimately fell back into it's bad habits and ended with a typically lame ending. That show and Veena Sud both need to go far away. Even "Mad Men" was disappointing in it's sixth season. Don Draper as an adulterer for the sixth straight season was boring. I loved the first 5 seasons of that show, but couldn't make it through the fifth season.
Let's hope some shows that don't look so good now break out of the pack. Otherwise 2013 could go down as one of the worst seasons ever in broadcast history.
themusicaddict
I'm not going to lie to you, many of this Fall's new shows look to be terrible. With this be the worst Fall for new shows in years? From what I've seen so far I'd have to say "yes". I may write more about this further in a later blog, but here's a quick sample. Shows I'll not be watching this Fall include "Betrayal", "Hostages", "Once Upon Time In Wonderland", "Dads", "We Are Men", "The Millers" and "Super Fun Night". Most of those comedies look sad and pathetic and I don't have a lot of hope that they will actually be funny. I expect "Betrayal", "We Are Men" and "Dads" to have a good chance of being cancelled quickly.
The show that I look forward to most this fall is "Sleepy Hollow", I look forward to seeing it's season premiere Monday night. I'll warn you though that since this show is on Fox, which means there will be an inordinate amount of commercials. I strongly suggest you record this on a DVR and start watching about 20 minutes into the show. Don't worry about the Monday Night Football game, it looks to be about as exciting as "Hostages". (Fox is the irresponsible party for "The Following", a show that was as dumb as it could be. You had to throw morality, good taste and common sense out the window to enjoy that show.)
Thanks to my friends at Comcast I've already seen the premieres of two shows. One was decent and one was brutal. The brutal show was "Ironside", the remake of the Raymond Burr 70's cop show. I like Blair Underwood, but who talked him in to participating in this stupid looking show. I'm so tired of the stock cop or detective who'll do anything to find out the truth. He'll break as many laws as needed to bring a criminal to justice. Read that last sentence back and you realize how little sense that concept makes. Even the shows tagline is boring: "His Team, His Town, His Rules". Yawn. I have good news for "Ironside" though, it won't be the first show cancelled. Some other dumb show will be cancelled before "Ironside's" October 2nd premiere.
The other new fall show that I've seen is a bit better. That's "Trophy Wife" which stars the lovely Malin Ackerman. This show had a few laughs, but is a bit heavy with wives and ex-wives. Will the producers find enough time for the ex-wives in a half-hour show? Will we want them too as both of the ex-wives aren't very interesting? I'm hoping the focus will remain on Ackerman's character. "Trophy Wife" won't win any Emmys, but should be a pleasant enough diversion for those times you just want to turn your brain off. If nothing else you can always enjoy Ackerman.
Returning shows that look to continue to disappoint include "Nashville", a show that had one of the worst finales ever. When the focus was on the music "Nashville" could soar, but too many soap opera details usually pulled it down. Who was the non-genius who allowed the very dumb "Revolution" a second season? In it's first season I gave it a chance, but was driven away by it's dumb story lines and bad acting. "Revolution" should change it's name to "Devolution" and it will be eligible for a truth in advertising award.
I'm a big fan of "The Walking Dead", but let's be honest the third season finale was brutally bad. It also featured too many commercials- the greed of corporate America raising it's ugly head again. I have no idea why the Governor is coming back for Season 4. For all the hype that character received he was damn boring. I think this season could be the beginning of the end for "The Walking Dead". Maybe not though as someone keeps on renewing the should have been dead long ago "American Idol".
Other shows I will give a chance, providing there's nothing else on TV, are "The Goldbergs", "Almost Human", "The Crazy Ones" (although I have very low expectations for that show) and the Michael J. Fox show. That last show I'm watching just because I like Fox so much, although again I don't have real high expectations.
Who knew that the summer season would be the best time for TV? This summer included the BBC America's very smart "Broadchurch", the 5th episode was a classic hour of television. "The Bridge" has been good, although I quickly become tired of all the gratuitous sex. The producers of this show are stooping to Miley Cyrus like low levels of taste. For how to be a solid show without cheapening your show "The Bridge" should look to the people behind "Broadchurch".
This summer has had solid seasons of "Rizzoli and Isles" and the always great "Longmire". I'm glad it was recently renewed for a third season. After having a solid first couple of seasons, "Falling Skies" lost a lot of quality in Season 3. I'll probably watch Season 4, but that show is about done. Lastly "Low Winter Sun" isn't the best show ever, but Frank Agnew is a great character. Although he killed a fellow cop and seems to have been played by Geddes, Agnew comes off as a great guy. I hope Agnew finds his Katia by the end of this season, because of bad ratings this likely will be the show's only season. This show's tagline is nearly perfect "Good Man. Cop. Killer".
Also there was "The Killing", this season started out strong, but ultimately fell back into it's bad habits and ended with a typically lame ending. That show and Veena Sud both need to go far away. Even "Mad Men" was disappointing in it's sixth season. Don Draper as an adulterer for the sixth straight season was boring. I loved the first 5 seasons of that show, but couldn't make it through the fifth season.
Let's hope some shows that don't look so good now break out of the pack. Otherwise 2013 could go down as one of the worst seasons ever in broadcast history.
themusicaddict
Dodgers Daily, September 12th, 2013, Dodgers Win, Magic Number For NL West Title Is 5!
Hello,
On Thursday the Dodgers started a 4 game series with their arch rival, the San Francisco Giants. In extra innings LA was able to escape with the victory. With the win they reduced their magic number for winning the NL West to 5. Mr. Consistent, Adrian Gonzalez, came through again with that walk off single in the 10th inning. His single drove in Carl Crawford which led to another Dodgers celebration.
Zack Greinke had a decent outing for the Dodgers, in 6 innings he gave up 4 hits, 2 walks and 1 run. He didn't earn a decision, but lowered his ERA to 2.74. Greinke has been slowly lowering his ERA the last couple of months, it looks like he's getting ready to pitch in the playoffs. It's great that he's doing so well now, but where he's really going to win his paychecks is in the playoffs.
Dodgers closer, Kenley Jansen, didn't fare quite as well. In fact he had a blown save, his first blown save since June 29th. Since that time he had 18 straight saves. The Beard came in to earn the win and save the Dodgers. Brian Wilson, pitching against his former team, had a shutout inning. He earned the win to go to 2-1 and has a 1.17 ERA.
Will Matt Kemp actually be able to return this season? ESPN is reporting that Kemp ran on a treadmill Thursday and will be evaluated by the team's medical staff early next week. With Kemp still only 28, I hope the Dodgers don't rush him back this season if it could be detrimental to the rest of his career.
The Dodgers have a 99.9% likelihood of reaching the playoffs, they lead second place Arizona by 12.5 games. Arizona had Thursday off, they start a series against the Rockies on Friday. Next they welcome the Dodgers for a 4 game series starting Monday. With LA's magic number down to 5, I expect LA to have clinched the NL West by no later than Sunday.
The AL East continues to baffle me. What I almost assuredly thought was going to be a close race has turned into a runaway by the Red Sox. Although Tampa Bay did put a temporary brake to the Red Sox steamroller yesterday. However Boston still leads Tampa Bay by 8.5 games.
In the NL Central it's almost assured that 3 teams will make the playoffs, will the same thing happen in the AL East? Boston is pretty much guaranteed to make the playoffs, the Rays are really struggling and the vampire like Yankees keep on sticking around. Baltimore still has a chance to reach the postseason, but I would almost guarantee that won't happen. They are playing too poorly now. Right now the top two teams in the AL Wild Card race are the Rangers and the Rays. The Yanks are only 1 game behind Tampa in the AL East and in the race for that second Wild Card spot.
The vampire Yanks start a 3 game series against the Red Sox on Friday, the finale of the series will be on Sunday Night Baseball. Can the Red Sox drive a stake through the heart of the Yankees.
The Braves, A's and Pirates keep on rolling to the playoffs. Both the Braves and A's are in first place in their respective divisions. I'm not sure what's happening in the Dallas area, but the Rangers seem to have the same choke gene that usually haunts the Cowboys. Oakland is pulling away from the Rangers in the AL West, they lead the Rangers by 3.5 games. Just a few days ago I thought the Rangers would make the playoffs easily, but now they're making that a bit more exciting than their fans would like. The Rangers have lost 3 straight and 8 of their last 10 games, but still have a 78.8% chance of making the playoffs.
Meanwhile the Pirates have won 4 consecutive games, including their recent sweep of the Rangers in Texas. St. Louis had their 5 game winning streak snapped Thursday night, the Pirates and Cardinals are tied once against for first place in the NL Central. So much for the Pirates fading, although they want to win the NL Central. In no way do they want to be involved in that 1 game NL Wild Card blood bath.
themusicaddict
On Thursday the Dodgers started a 4 game series with their arch rival, the San Francisco Giants. In extra innings LA was able to escape with the victory. With the win they reduced their magic number for winning the NL West to 5. Mr. Consistent, Adrian Gonzalez, came through again with that walk off single in the 10th inning. His single drove in Carl Crawford which led to another Dodgers celebration.
Zack Greinke had a decent outing for the Dodgers, in 6 innings he gave up 4 hits, 2 walks and 1 run. He didn't earn a decision, but lowered his ERA to 2.74. Greinke has been slowly lowering his ERA the last couple of months, it looks like he's getting ready to pitch in the playoffs. It's great that he's doing so well now, but where he's really going to win his paychecks is in the playoffs.
Dodgers closer, Kenley Jansen, didn't fare quite as well. In fact he had a blown save, his first blown save since June 29th. Since that time he had 18 straight saves. The Beard came in to earn the win and save the Dodgers. Brian Wilson, pitching against his former team, had a shutout inning. He earned the win to go to 2-1 and has a 1.17 ERA.
Will Matt Kemp actually be able to return this season? ESPN is reporting that Kemp ran on a treadmill Thursday and will be evaluated by the team's medical staff early next week. With Kemp still only 28, I hope the Dodgers don't rush him back this season if it could be detrimental to the rest of his career.
The Dodgers have a 99.9% likelihood of reaching the playoffs, they lead second place Arizona by 12.5 games. Arizona had Thursday off, they start a series against the Rockies on Friday. Next they welcome the Dodgers for a 4 game series starting Monday. With LA's magic number down to 5, I expect LA to have clinched the NL West by no later than Sunday.
The AL East continues to baffle me. What I almost assuredly thought was going to be a close race has turned into a runaway by the Red Sox. Although Tampa Bay did put a temporary brake to the Red Sox steamroller yesterday. However Boston still leads Tampa Bay by 8.5 games.
In the NL Central it's almost assured that 3 teams will make the playoffs, will the same thing happen in the AL East? Boston is pretty much guaranteed to make the playoffs, the Rays are really struggling and the vampire like Yankees keep on sticking around. Baltimore still has a chance to reach the postseason, but I would almost guarantee that won't happen. They are playing too poorly now. Right now the top two teams in the AL Wild Card race are the Rangers and the Rays. The Yanks are only 1 game behind Tampa in the AL East and in the race for that second Wild Card spot.
The vampire Yanks start a 3 game series against the Red Sox on Friday, the finale of the series will be on Sunday Night Baseball. Can the Red Sox drive a stake through the heart of the Yankees.
The Braves, A's and Pirates keep on rolling to the playoffs. Both the Braves and A's are in first place in their respective divisions. I'm not sure what's happening in the Dallas area, but the Rangers seem to have the same choke gene that usually haunts the Cowboys. Oakland is pulling away from the Rangers in the AL West, they lead the Rangers by 3.5 games. Just a few days ago I thought the Rangers would make the playoffs easily, but now they're making that a bit more exciting than their fans would like. The Rangers have lost 3 straight and 8 of their last 10 games, but still have a 78.8% chance of making the playoffs.
Meanwhile the Pirates have won 4 consecutive games, including their recent sweep of the Rangers in Texas. St. Louis had their 5 game winning streak snapped Thursday night, the Pirates and Cardinals are tied once against for first place in the NL Central. So much for the Pirates fading, although they want to win the NL Central. In no way do they want to be involved in that 1 game NL Wild Card blood bath.
themusicaddict
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 11th, 2013: Dodgers Lose, Magic Number Remains At 6
Hello,
The way too long baseball season continues on, Arizona beat LA 4-1 on Thursday. This was Arizona's last chance to win at least one game in the series. Because of their victory Arizona remains above .500. Almost assuredly the Dodgers have the NL West wrapped up, their magic number remains at 6. I still expect the Dodgers to clinch the NL West by this weekend.
Hyun- Jin Ryu has often given up a lot of hits, but has been able to scatter those hits so that they don't do much damage. In this game Ryu wasn't able to get away with giving up so many hits. He gave up 10 hits, but only a respectable 3 runs. But many times with this Dodgers offense, that's simply not enough. All LA could produce in this game was 8 hits and 1 run. Lately the Dodgers have been scoring enough runs, but they didn't on Wednesday.
Yasiel Puig was the only Dodger who provided any runs, he hit his 16th homer of the season in the 7th inning. It was too little, too late though as Arizona went on to win 4-1. Puig and Hanley Ramirez remain in a battle for the Dodgers best batting average. Puig was 2 for 4 and is hitting .340. Currently Ramirez is the Dodger with the best batting average, he was 2 for 4 and is hitting .342.
LA is now 2-1 on their 7 game home stand, the Dodgers close it out with 4 games against rival San Francisco. In the first two games the Giants are scheduled to face Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw. In the series' third game the Giants are scheduled to battle the Dodgers hottest pitcher, Ricky Nolasco. The Giants will finish the series by facing Edinson Volquez, does that mean that Chris Capuano is no longer in the Dodgers starting rotation?
Speaking of Dodger starting pitchers, I'd been wondering when Ted Lilly would make his return to the Dodgers? I went to ESPN's Dodgers page to look at their roster and Lilly's name isn't even listed. I did some research and I was surprised to see that Ted Lilly was released from the Dodgers 2 1/2 months ago! He was activated on July 24th and then designated for assignment on July 25th. I'm not sure of all the ins and outs of what being designated for assignment means, but essentially it means that Lilly was released. Don't feel bad for Lilly though, he's paid $12 million this season for very little production. The Dodgers must not be the only ones who didn't think he had anything left in the tank, I can't find any news that another team signed him.
But good news for LA, they no longer have to pay him after this season. Next season will be Josh Beckett's last season with the Dodgers. Hopefully he gives LA a bit more production than Lilly did, but I don't expect it. Like Lilly I think that Beckett is pretty much done. I'm not going to miss him when he isn't on the Dodgers any longer. Lilly and Beckett have been two anchors on LA's payroll. Money doesn't seem to be a pressing concern for LA, but still the less money they have to pay the better.
Meanwhile the Pirates swept the Rangers, Mike Carp hit a grand slam in the top of the 10th inning to propel the Red Sox to another victory over the Rays. Oakland scored two touchdowns, with a two point conversion on one of the TDs, and a field goal to win 18-3. Oakland came so close to blocking Minnesota's field goal attempt :) Also the Braves lost, but so what? It seems like the Braves have had the NL East wrapped up for it seems to be forever.
I'm trying to enjoy this season as much as I can, because my teams will never be as collectively good again as they are this season.
themusicaddict
The way too long baseball season continues on, Arizona beat LA 4-1 on Thursday. This was Arizona's last chance to win at least one game in the series. Because of their victory Arizona remains above .500. Almost assuredly the Dodgers have the NL West wrapped up, their magic number remains at 6. I still expect the Dodgers to clinch the NL West by this weekend.
Hyun- Jin Ryu has often given up a lot of hits, but has been able to scatter those hits so that they don't do much damage. In this game Ryu wasn't able to get away with giving up so many hits. He gave up 10 hits, but only a respectable 3 runs. But many times with this Dodgers offense, that's simply not enough. All LA could produce in this game was 8 hits and 1 run. Lately the Dodgers have been scoring enough runs, but they didn't on Wednesday.
Yasiel Puig was the only Dodger who provided any runs, he hit his 16th homer of the season in the 7th inning. It was too little, too late though as Arizona went on to win 4-1. Puig and Hanley Ramirez remain in a battle for the Dodgers best batting average. Puig was 2 for 4 and is hitting .340. Currently Ramirez is the Dodger with the best batting average, he was 2 for 4 and is hitting .342.
LA is now 2-1 on their 7 game home stand, the Dodgers close it out with 4 games against rival San Francisco. In the first two games the Giants are scheduled to face Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw. In the series' third game the Giants are scheduled to battle the Dodgers hottest pitcher, Ricky Nolasco. The Giants will finish the series by facing Edinson Volquez, does that mean that Chris Capuano is no longer in the Dodgers starting rotation?
Speaking of Dodger starting pitchers, I'd been wondering when Ted Lilly would make his return to the Dodgers? I went to ESPN's Dodgers page to look at their roster and Lilly's name isn't even listed. I did some research and I was surprised to see that Ted Lilly was released from the Dodgers 2 1/2 months ago! He was activated on July 24th and then designated for assignment on July 25th. I'm not sure of all the ins and outs of what being designated for assignment means, but essentially it means that Lilly was released. Don't feel bad for Lilly though, he's paid $12 million this season for very little production. The Dodgers must not be the only ones who didn't think he had anything left in the tank, I can't find any news that another team signed him.
But good news for LA, they no longer have to pay him after this season. Next season will be Josh Beckett's last season with the Dodgers. Hopefully he gives LA a bit more production than Lilly did, but I don't expect it. Like Lilly I think that Beckett is pretty much done. I'm not going to miss him when he isn't on the Dodgers any longer. Lilly and Beckett have been two anchors on LA's payroll. Money doesn't seem to be a pressing concern for LA, but still the less money they have to pay the better.
Meanwhile the Pirates swept the Rangers, Mike Carp hit a grand slam in the top of the 10th inning to propel the Red Sox to another victory over the Rays. Oakland scored two touchdowns, with a two point conversion on one of the TDs, and a field goal to win 18-3. Oakland came so close to blocking Minnesota's field goal attempt :) Also the Braves lost, but so what? It seems like the Braves have had the NL East wrapped up for it seems to be forever.
I'm trying to enjoy this season as much as I can, because my teams will never be as collectively good again as they are this season.
themusicaddict
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Dodgers Daily, September 10th, 2013, Dodgers Win, 9/11 Rememberances
Hello,
Although this blog is written about games that occurred on September 10th, I'm writing it on September 11th. Obviously today is the 12th anniversary of the attacks on the USA, the day sadly known as 9/11. It's amazing how just mentioning that date can bring up many memories, even 911 randomly appearing still causes all sorts of memories for me. I still remember so many things about that day.
However since this is mainly a baseball blog I'll not hit you over the head with politics. Although MLB and the Winter Olympics held in Salt Lake City a few months later did help in the healing following the events of 9/11. It seems everyone temporarily became a Yankees fan after 9/11. I'm sure there will be many tributes and ceremonies at MLB parks today, especially in New York. Also Washington DC has a team now, they didn't in 2001.
Some people think of Alan Jackson's 9/11 song when they think of that tragic day. It hasn't ever been a favorite song of mine though. There's something about it that I don't like, maybe it's too passive. I prefer songs about Americans responding to the attack. People such as the crew and passengers of United Flight 93. One of the passengers uttered "Let's roll" before they attacked their attackers. That's one of the reasons why my favorite 9/11 song is Neil Young's "Let's Roll":
If you want a whole CD about 9/11 and it's impact I highly recommend Bruce Springsteen's "The Rising". What an amazing CD! Here's the full CD:
God Bless America!
Now back to much less important things. And anything else honestly feels anti-climactic.
The Dodgers continued their steam rolling of the NL West at the same time as they continue to lower their magic number. After their 5-3 victory over Arizona on Tuesday, LA's magic number is down to 6. The final game of that series is today, with another win LA can decrease their magic number to 4. I expect LA to wrap up the NL West title by this weekend. Then they can start focusing on getting home field advantage all through the playoffs leading up to the World Series.
The hero on Tuesday was Scott Van Slyke, he hit a 2 run walk off homer in the bottom of the 11th inning. It was Van Slyke's 7th homer this season, he has 18 RBIs and is hitting .259 for the Dodgers. Van Slyke has been on the yo yo between Albuquerque and LA all season. (Does he have a home or apartment in both places?) Thanks to Van Slyke for his timely home run, but I wonder will he be on the Dodgers playoff roster.
Another person I wonder whether will be on the Dodgers playoff roster is Matt Kemp. From espn.com:
"Mattingly said he's increasingly optimistic that OF Matt Kemp could return this season. Kemp has been rehabbing a sprained left ankle, although he was slowed recently by a strained hamstring."
From that comment I'm not feeling a lot of optimism. It would be nice to have Kemp back if he's near full health. However the Dodgers have won without him this season, his return won't make or break LA's season. After the terrible start the Dodgers got off too, I can't believe the Dodgers are even in this position now. Crazy and that's why I definitely won't say LA is in the playoffs until they actually are. You just never know.
On Tuesday the Dodgers only had 7 hits, but turned those hits into 5 runs. Adrian Gonzalez was 3 for 4 and is hitting .296 this season. It's funny how much he's been hovering around .300 all season. Mark Ellis had two more of the Dodgers hits and was 2 for 5, he's hitting .271 this season. Andre Ethier had a hit and of course Van Slyke's hit was the biggest of all.
Edinson Volquez started for LA again. He pitched well enough, 6 innings 4 hits and gave up 3 runs. He received no decision and lowered his frighteningly high ERA to below 6.00. Chris Withrow closed out the game and finished with the win. He's 3-0 this season and also has a much more palatable ERA at 2.83.
ESPN notes that LA has won 18 of their last 22 home games and things look good for LA to sweep Arizona on Wednesday. If Hyun-Jin Ryu's back holds up he's the scheduled starter for the Dodgers. Ryu has had a solid rookie season, he's 13-5 with a 3.02 ERA. Ryu has given up a lot of hits, and the Dodgers offense has saved him a few times. For the Diamondbacks they are scheduled to send Patrick Corbin (13-6, 2.97) to the mound. The Diamondbacks I'm sure will have a bit more incentive as they are trying to prevent themselves from falling below .500.
Like the Dodgers the Red Sox were able to beat the second place team in their division. The AL East has been a close race most of the season, but now it has turned into a rout. It's so good to have the Red Sox back after their Summer of Valentine, was he one of the worst managerial hires of all-time? Under John Farrell the Red Sox resume their rightful place atop the AL East. Boston leads the Rays by 8.5 games and the Rays still have 3 more games to play than does Boston.
Also it's good to see Clay Bucholz pitching again for the Red Sox. In his first appearance in over 3 months, he allowed 3 hits over 5 innings. Buchholz improves to 10-0 and has a 1.61 ERA. Although he won't have enough starts, he's the only starter I know of who has a better ERA than Clayton Kershaw. Koji Uehara earned his 19th save for the Red Sox.
Pittsburgh won another big game in Texas, however St. Louis also won. The Cardinals remain 1 game ahead of Pittsburgh in the NL Central. Thanks to the Cubs throttling the Reds 9-1, Cincinnati is 3 games behind St. Louis. Again it's almost assured all three teams will make the playoffs.
The two wildcard playoff spots was suppose to increase excitement in MLB, however it hasn't done that very well this season. We already know the 5 teams who'll be in the NL playoffs. An expert on MLB Network was suggesting that the Nationals still have a chance to reach the postseason, but come on he was just playing devils advocate. espn.com states the Nationals have a 2.7% chance of reaching the playoffs. The Nationals are 6 games behind the Reds for the second wild card spot following the end of games on Tuesday.
In the AL Boston is guaranteed of making the playoffs already. Unless sinkholes develop in Detroit and Oakland and swallow both those town's teams, the Tigers and A's will make the playoffs. That's 3 of the 5 teams making the playoffs in the AL. Texas is almost assured of making the playoffs too, then for the second wild card that battle will be between the Rays and Indians. Do you realistically think the Indians will sneak into the playoffs? I know Terry Francona did great work with the Red Sox. (Thanks for your part in the two Red Sox World Series Tito.) But I predict the Indians are at least a year away from seriously challenging to make the playoffs, although Tampa Bay is keeping the door open for them. Also Cleveland is only 1.5 games behind Tampa Bay in the AL wild card.
themusicaddict
Although this blog is written about games that occurred on September 10th, I'm writing it on September 11th. Obviously today is the 12th anniversary of the attacks on the USA, the day sadly known as 9/11. It's amazing how just mentioning that date can bring up many memories, even 911 randomly appearing still causes all sorts of memories for me. I still remember so many things about that day.
However since this is mainly a baseball blog I'll not hit you over the head with politics. Although MLB and the Winter Olympics held in Salt Lake City a few months later did help in the healing following the events of 9/11. It seems everyone temporarily became a Yankees fan after 9/11. I'm sure there will be many tributes and ceremonies at MLB parks today, especially in New York. Also Washington DC has a team now, they didn't in 2001.
Some people think of Alan Jackson's 9/11 song when they think of that tragic day. It hasn't ever been a favorite song of mine though. There's something about it that I don't like, maybe it's too passive. I prefer songs about Americans responding to the attack. People such as the crew and passengers of United Flight 93. One of the passengers uttered "Let's roll" before they attacked their attackers. That's one of the reasons why my favorite 9/11 song is Neil Young's "Let's Roll":
If you want a whole CD about 9/11 and it's impact I highly recommend Bruce Springsteen's "The Rising". What an amazing CD! Here's the full CD:
God Bless America!
Now back to much less important things. And anything else honestly feels anti-climactic.
The Dodgers continued their steam rolling of the NL West at the same time as they continue to lower their magic number. After their 5-3 victory over Arizona on Tuesday, LA's magic number is down to 6. The final game of that series is today, with another win LA can decrease their magic number to 4. I expect LA to wrap up the NL West title by this weekend. Then they can start focusing on getting home field advantage all through the playoffs leading up to the World Series.
The hero on Tuesday was Scott Van Slyke, he hit a 2 run walk off homer in the bottom of the 11th inning. It was Van Slyke's 7th homer this season, he has 18 RBIs and is hitting .259 for the Dodgers. Van Slyke has been on the yo yo between Albuquerque and LA all season. (Does he have a home or apartment in both places?) Thanks to Van Slyke for his timely home run, but I wonder will he be on the Dodgers playoff roster.
Another person I wonder whether will be on the Dodgers playoff roster is Matt Kemp. From espn.com:
"Mattingly said he's increasingly optimistic that OF Matt Kemp could return this season. Kemp has been rehabbing a sprained left ankle, although he was slowed recently by a strained hamstring."
From that comment I'm not feeling a lot of optimism. It would be nice to have Kemp back if he's near full health. However the Dodgers have won without him this season, his return won't make or break LA's season. After the terrible start the Dodgers got off too, I can't believe the Dodgers are even in this position now. Crazy and that's why I definitely won't say LA is in the playoffs until they actually are. You just never know.
On Tuesday the Dodgers only had 7 hits, but turned those hits into 5 runs. Adrian Gonzalez was 3 for 4 and is hitting .296 this season. It's funny how much he's been hovering around .300 all season. Mark Ellis had two more of the Dodgers hits and was 2 for 5, he's hitting .271 this season. Andre Ethier had a hit and of course Van Slyke's hit was the biggest of all.
Edinson Volquez started for LA again. He pitched well enough, 6 innings 4 hits and gave up 3 runs. He received no decision and lowered his frighteningly high ERA to below 6.00. Chris Withrow closed out the game and finished with the win. He's 3-0 this season and also has a much more palatable ERA at 2.83.
ESPN notes that LA has won 18 of their last 22 home games and things look good for LA to sweep Arizona on Wednesday. If Hyun-Jin Ryu's back holds up he's the scheduled starter for the Dodgers. Ryu has had a solid rookie season, he's 13-5 with a 3.02 ERA. Ryu has given up a lot of hits, and the Dodgers offense has saved him a few times. For the Diamondbacks they are scheduled to send Patrick Corbin (13-6, 2.97) to the mound. The Diamondbacks I'm sure will have a bit more incentive as they are trying to prevent themselves from falling below .500.
Like the Dodgers the Red Sox were able to beat the second place team in their division. The AL East has been a close race most of the season, but now it has turned into a rout. It's so good to have the Red Sox back after their Summer of Valentine, was he one of the worst managerial hires of all-time? Under John Farrell the Red Sox resume their rightful place atop the AL East. Boston leads the Rays by 8.5 games and the Rays still have 3 more games to play than does Boston.
Also it's good to see Clay Bucholz pitching again for the Red Sox. In his first appearance in over 3 months, he allowed 3 hits over 5 innings. Buchholz improves to 10-0 and has a 1.61 ERA. Although he won't have enough starts, he's the only starter I know of who has a better ERA than Clayton Kershaw. Koji Uehara earned his 19th save for the Red Sox.
Pittsburgh won another big game in Texas, however St. Louis also won. The Cardinals remain 1 game ahead of Pittsburgh in the NL Central. Thanks to the Cubs throttling the Reds 9-1, Cincinnati is 3 games behind St. Louis. Again it's almost assured all three teams will make the playoffs.
The two wildcard playoff spots was suppose to increase excitement in MLB, however it hasn't done that very well this season. We already know the 5 teams who'll be in the NL playoffs. An expert on MLB Network was suggesting that the Nationals still have a chance to reach the postseason, but come on he was just playing devils advocate. espn.com states the Nationals have a 2.7% chance of reaching the playoffs. The Nationals are 6 games behind the Reds for the second wild card spot following the end of games on Tuesday.
In the AL Boston is guaranteed of making the playoffs already. Unless sinkholes develop in Detroit and Oakland and swallow both those town's teams, the Tigers and A's will make the playoffs. That's 3 of the 5 teams making the playoffs in the AL. Texas is almost assured of making the playoffs too, then for the second wild card that battle will be between the Rays and Indians. Do you realistically think the Indians will sneak into the playoffs? I know Terry Francona did great work with the Red Sox. (Thanks for your part in the two Red Sox World Series Tito.) But I predict the Indians are at least a year away from seriously challenging to make the playoffs, although Tampa Bay is keeping the door open for them. Also Cleveland is only 1.5 games behind Tampa Bay in the AL wild card.
themusicaddict
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
September 10th, 2013: New Music by Redlight King, Sheryl Crow and Arctic Monkeys
Hello,
As I've been going about my day I'm listening to music that was released today. Redlight King released his second CD "Irons In The Fire", Sheryl Crow released "Feels Like Home" and the Arctic Monkeys released "AM".
The best of the three CDs is Redlight King's CD and it's not that close. Redlight King's debut CD was "Something For The Pain", it's a great CD. It's full of great rock songs and he's mixed in other genres as well. "Pain" is full of songs that are perfect for catharsis and to exercise to. Nearly every song on his debut CD is amazing. It's always tough to better your first CD, there are many more musicians who haven't than have. Sadly this is a bit of step back for Redlight King.
So far the only song from Redlight's new CD that's available on Youtube is "Born To Rise", you can listen to the entire new CD on Spotify for free though. "Born To Rise":
"Born To Rise" is a good enough song, but it's not the best song on new CD. I prefer "Dark Side Of The Moon", which has nothing to do with Pink Floyd or Phillip Phillips. I also like "Devil's Dance".
Here are a couple of my favorite songs from his debut CD "Something For The Pain".
"Bullet In My Hand":
"City Life":
Next up is Sheryl Crow's "Feels Like Home", this is a perfectly adequate CD. Crow has never been a rocker and always has had mellow music. But this CD she continues moving to being a country music artist. There's nothing wrong with that. other than it sounds like an idea from a corporate executive for Crow to sell more CDs. The best thing about this CD is the cover photo of Crow, she's still gorgeous.
Even the lead single from "AM" is a bit weak, usually the first single is meant to get as much exposure for the album as possible. The only exposure this would get the band is negative. It still has very much the Arctic Monkey sound and at least "High" has a pulse. I'm guessing the Monkeys were listening to Evanescence when they came up the idea for this song, specifically the song "Call Me When You're Sober". Except the Evanescence song actually rocks.
Arctic Monkeys have never been known as a video band, but this video is lame even by their standards. "Why'd You Only Call Me When Your High":
Remember then their music made you want to get up and dance? What does this song make you want to do besides sleep? "Do I Wanna Know":
Now I have to go listen to some good Arctic Monkeys music to remember them when they were creating much better music.
themusicaddict
As I've been going about my day I'm listening to music that was released today. Redlight King released his second CD "Irons In The Fire", Sheryl Crow released "Feels Like Home" and the Arctic Monkeys released "AM".
The best of the three CDs is Redlight King's CD and it's not that close. Redlight King's debut CD was "Something For The Pain", it's a great CD. It's full of great rock songs and he's mixed in other genres as well. "Pain" is full of songs that are perfect for catharsis and to exercise to. Nearly every song on his debut CD is amazing. It's always tough to better your first CD, there are many more musicians who haven't than have. Sadly this is a bit of step back for Redlight King.
So far the only song from Redlight's new CD that's available on Youtube is "Born To Rise", you can listen to the entire new CD on Spotify for free though. "Born To Rise":
"Born To Rise" is a good enough song, but it's not the best song on new CD. I prefer "Dark Side Of The Moon", which has nothing to do with Pink Floyd or Phillip Phillips. I also like "Devil's Dance".
Here are a couple of my favorite songs from his debut CD "Something For The Pain".
"Bullet In My Hand":
"City Life":
Next up is Sheryl Crow's "Feels Like Home", this is a perfectly adequate CD. Crow has never been a rocker and always has had mellow music. But this CD she continues moving to being a country music artist. There's nothing wrong with that. other than it sounds like an idea from a corporate executive for Crow to sell more CDs. The best thing about this CD is the cover photo of Crow, she's still gorgeous.
The first single from her new CD is "Easy":
My favorite song on her new CD is "Homecoming Queen". Not only is she still gorgeous but she still sounds really good as well. Now can we only find her some better songs like "Homecoming Queen"?:
Last and most definitely least is the Arctic Monkeys cleverly named CD "AM". No, the title isn't a tribute to 70's radio, but the initials of the band. I can't believe the band that had this amazing song:
has now become so boring. Their previous CD was as witty and clever as the title "Suck It And See", "AM" is a bit of an upgrade. But "Suck" was an apt description and wasn't real hard to improve on.
Even the lead single from "AM" is a bit weak, usually the first single is meant to get as much exposure for the album as possible. The only exposure this would get the band is negative. It still has very much the Arctic Monkey sound and at least "High" has a pulse. I'm guessing the Monkeys were listening to Evanescence when they came up the idea for this song, specifically the song "Call Me When You're Sober". Except the Evanescence song actually rocks.
Arctic Monkeys have never been known as a video band, but this video is lame even by their standards. "Why'd You Only Call Me When Your High":
Remember then their music made you want to get up and dance? What does this song make you want to do besides sleep? "Do I Wanna Know":
Now I have to go listen to some good Arctic Monkeys music to remember them when they were creating much better music.
themusicaddict
Dodgers Daily, September 9th, 2013: Juan Uribe Has The Game Of His Life, Pirates Win 82nd Game
Hello,
LA started a 7 game home stand Monday, to start this stand they have 3 games against the faltering Diamondbacks. Arizona is the NL West's second place team, the place they look like they'll hold on to the rest of the season. In the first game of the series LA exploded for 8 runs against the Diamondbacks. With LA's victory, their magic number decreases to 8. A combination of 8 LA wins and Diamondbacks losses clinch the NL West for LA. LA winning the NL West has long been a foregone conclusion, the question is when will it happen? With LA playing Arizona for 2 more games the Dodgers can hasten that process.
Juan Uribe had the game of his life. In his first 3 at bats he hit home runs, this is Uribe's first 3 home run game in his career. Previous to this game it took him over 50 games to hit 3 homers. (Thanks as always to ESPN for many of these great Dodger nuggets.) Against Arizona Uribe hit his 8th, 9th and 10th homers of the season. He was also 4 for 4 and is hitting .279 this season. Uribe had 4 more RBIs and has 44 this season. Uribe's three year contract that he signed with LA is finally paying dividends for the Dodgers in the final season of that contract.
The Dodgers ended up hitting 6 homers in this game. When Dodger players do hit home runs, many times they hit solo homers. It's very few teams that can hit 6 homers and only score 8 runs, but I'm so glad LA's offense woke up for at least 1 game. Andre Ethier added his 12th homer, Adrian Gonzalez his 20th and Hanley Ramirez hit his 18th homer in his injury shortened season.
Ricky Nolasco continues his recent string of very effective outings. He pitched 6.2 innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run. Nolasco improves to 13-9 and lowers his ERA to 3.14. ESPN points out that he won his 7th straight decision, which has occurred over his last 8 starts. This Dodgers pitching staff is turning into a great pitching staff right before our eyes. If they could only find a consistent 5th starter..... then a World Series title could be the limit.
The Dodgers are 84-59 and they reduce their magic number to 8 games. They now lead Arizona by 12 games. If LA wins the next two games, which they play both against Arizona, they can lower their magic number to 4 games. For those that don't know a magic number is the number of Dodgers wins and Diamondback losses for the Dodgers to clinch the NL West.
Meanwhile the Pirates had a very historic moment in their recent history on Monday. The Pirates went to Texas and beat a very good Rangers team 1-0. This was the Pirates 82nd win, which guarantees their first winning season in 21 years. It was Pedro Alvarez's clutch 7th inning double that drove in new Pirate Marlon Byrd.
The roller coaster season of Gerrit Cole continues. He pitched 7 innings and only allowed 3 hits and 0 runs and also struck out 9 Rangers. Cole improves to 7-7 in his rookie season, while lowering his ERA to 3.48.
Of course the Pirates clinching a winning season is just one of many steps they want to take this season. Next up is making the playoffs, hopefully winning the NL Central. Then obviously the final step is to win the World Series, what an amazing story that would make.
Thanks to one of my other teams, the Cubs, they beat the Reds yesterday. St. Louis remains in first place in the NL Central and lead the second place Pirates by 1 game. St. Louis leads third place Cincy by 2 games. The Reds have played 2 more games than either the Cardinals or the Pirates, I don't think that's going to be an advantage for them. I expect the NL Central battle to go down close to the final day of the season.
Meanwhile in the AL West the A's went 8-2 on their recent 10 game home stand and then had Monday off, they lead the Rangers by 2 games. Even though the Rangers aren't hindered by Josh Hamilton any more, I still don't see them winning the AL West.
themusicaddict
LA started a 7 game home stand Monday, to start this stand they have 3 games against the faltering Diamondbacks. Arizona is the NL West's second place team, the place they look like they'll hold on to the rest of the season. In the first game of the series LA exploded for 8 runs against the Diamondbacks. With LA's victory, their magic number decreases to 8. A combination of 8 LA wins and Diamondbacks losses clinch the NL West for LA. LA winning the NL West has long been a foregone conclusion, the question is when will it happen? With LA playing Arizona for 2 more games the Dodgers can hasten that process.
Juan Uribe had the game of his life. In his first 3 at bats he hit home runs, this is Uribe's first 3 home run game in his career. Previous to this game it took him over 50 games to hit 3 homers. (Thanks as always to ESPN for many of these great Dodger nuggets.) Against Arizona Uribe hit his 8th, 9th and 10th homers of the season. He was also 4 for 4 and is hitting .279 this season. Uribe had 4 more RBIs and has 44 this season. Uribe's three year contract that he signed with LA is finally paying dividends for the Dodgers in the final season of that contract.
The Dodgers ended up hitting 6 homers in this game. When Dodger players do hit home runs, many times they hit solo homers. It's very few teams that can hit 6 homers and only score 8 runs, but I'm so glad LA's offense woke up for at least 1 game. Andre Ethier added his 12th homer, Adrian Gonzalez his 20th and Hanley Ramirez hit his 18th homer in his injury shortened season.
Ricky Nolasco continues his recent string of very effective outings. He pitched 6.2 innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run. Nolasco improves to 13-9 and lowers his ERA to 3.14. ESPN points out that he won his 7th straight decision, which has occurred over his last 8 starts. This Dodgers pitching staff is turning into a great pitching staff right before our eyes. If they could only find a consistent 5th starter..... then a World Series title could be the limit.
The Dodgers are 84-59 and they reduce their magic number to 8 games. They now lead Arizona by 12 games. If LA wins the next two games, which they play both against Arizona, they can lower their magic number to 4 games. For those that don't know a magic number is the number of Dodgers wins and Diamondback losses for the Dodgers to clinch the NL West.
Meanwhile the Pirates had a very historic moment in their recent history on Monday. The Pirates went to Texas and beat a very good Rangers team 1-0. This was the Pirates 82nd win, which guarantees their first winning season in 21 years. It was Pedro Alvarez's clutch 7th inning double that drove in new Pirate Marlon Byrd.
The roller coaster season of Gerrit Cole continues. He pitched 7 innings and only allowed 3 hits and 0 runs and also struck out 9 Rangers. Cole improves to 7-7 in his rookie season, while lowering his ERA to 3.48.
Of course the Pirates clinching a winning season is just one of many steps they want to take this season. Next up is making the playoffs, hopefully winning the NL Central. Then obviously the final step is to win the World Series, what an amazing story that would make.
Thanks to one of my other teams, the Cubs, they beat the Reds yesterday. St. Louis remains in first place in the NL Central and lead the second place Pirates by 1 game. St. Louis leads third place Cincy by 2 games. The Reds have played 2 more games than either the Cardinals or the Pirates, I don't think that's going to be an advantage for them. I expect the NL Central battle to go down close to the final day of the season.
Meanwhile in the AL West the A's went 8-2 on their recent 10 game home stand and then had Monday off, they lead the Rangers by 2 games. Even though the Rangers aren't hindered by Josh Hamilton any more, I still don't see them winning the AL West.
themusicaddict
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