[Official] Reds @ Astros

[Castor27]

As always, no PBP in the thread. If you need that try one of the game cast sites. Keep discussion to this series. If it is not about this series it goes somewhere else.

8-1 Bronson Arroyo, RHP (7-9, 5.58) vs. Bud Norris, RHP (5-7, 3.39) 7:05 on FSH

8-2 Homer Bailey, RHP (5-5, 4.68) vs. Wandy Rodriguez, LHP (7-7, 3.47) 7:05 on FSH

8-3 Dontrelle Willis, LHP (0-1, 3.52) vs. Jordan Lyles, RHP (0-6, 4.41) 7:05 on FSH

[juicystream]

Go Corpus Christi Hooks!

[jdh008]

Call me an eternal optimist, but I actually like the hometown 9's chances of winning this series.

I like the pitching matchup in game 1 with Norris against Arroyo. Game 2 is a little dicier, but with a good outing from Wandy, they could win that one. Count me as a non-believer in Dontrelle Willis 3.0 (or is it 4.0?). Our right-handed heavy lineup could do well against D-Train.

Guys like Paredes, Martinez and Altuve (although he has been for a bit now) will be eager to prove they belong, so at the very least, I think the Astros will battle hard.

[rockets934life]

Eager to see what this collection of guys can do and what the lineup will look like.

My guess...

Altuve
Durango
Jason B
CLee
JD
Parades
Barmes
Q

[juicystream]

Eager to see what these collection of guys can do and what the lineup will look like.

My guess...

Altuve
Durango
Jason B
CLee
JD
Parades
Barmes
Q

There is a ton of speed in that lineup.

[msn]

Paredes got called up????

[Joshfast]

Paredes got called up????

and Wallace and Johnson down.....

[msn]

nice!

[mazag08]

Mills said Altuve would not be his everyday leadoff hitter but he would give it try. I like Bourgeois leading off, but Mills likes his high average batting third and I dont blame him.

1. Altuve
2. Barmes
3. Bourgeois
4. Lee
5. Martinez
6. Bogusevic
7. Paredes
8. Q
9. P

[Joshfast]

nice!

I had high hopes for Wallace.... with those tree-trunk legs I pegged him for way more power :(

[cardpire]

and Wallace and Johnson down.....

holy crap. didn't see any of that.

[marks0223]

$11 field box tickets this entire home stand

[No Worries]

$11 field box tickets this entire home stand
40 year price rollback!!!

[msn]

Yeah, I was hoping for more from Wallace, too.

[kaleidosky]

still think wallace could rebound and be decent. holding out hope

looking forward to this new look team though. I'd put Bourgeois at 1 no matter what.. without power, you might as well get your high OBP guys (esp. the fast ones) more ABs

[TheChosenOne]

Call me an eternal optimist, but I actually like the hometown 9's chances of winning this series.

I like the pitching matchup in game 1 with Norris against Arroyo. Game 2 is a little dicier, but with a good outing from Wandy, they could win that one. Count me as a non-believer in Dontrelle Willis 3.0 (or is it 4.0?). Our right-handed heavy lineup could do well against D-Train.

Guys like Paredes, Martinez and Altuve (although he has been for a bit now) will be eager to prove they belong, so at the very least, I think the Astros will battle hard.

I feel pretty much the same. The D-Train has only had a few starts this year and I'll hold off calling him a good pitcher until he consistently proves it. Hell, I like Norris' and Wandy's chances (pitching wise). Lyles has been disappointing and I was hoping he'd be the second coming of Cy-Young. The fact that he hasn't thrown a perfect game by now actually disappoints me.

Now, whether we come up with any offense for our staff...who knows? I hope the Corpus Christi Hooks bring their A-game :)

[TheChosenOne]

Oh and Wallace sucks. In accordance with the prophecy and he looks like a beaver.

[juicystream]

still think wallace could rebound and be decent. holding out hope

looking forward to this new look team though. I'd put Bourgeois at 1 no matter what.. without power, you might as well get your high OBP guys (esp. the fast ones) more ABs

If Kody Hinze keeps his production going, he might not get another chance.

[Baseballa]

First look at the new lineup...

http://mlblogsfooter.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/0801_lineup.jpg?w=382&h=512

[Pete Chilcutt]

If Kody Hinze keeps his production going, he might not get another chance.

why is Hinze not a top prospect of ours?

[juicystream]

First look at the new lineup...

http://mlblogsfooter.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/0801_lineup.jpg?w=382&h=512

Should be the best defensive team we have put out there this season.

[juicystream]

why is Hinze not a top prospect of ours?

Look how long it took for J.D. Martinez. Hinze will be a top 10 organizational prospect if he is still playing great by mid-season next year. Of course if he is still playing great, I'll be wondering why he isn't in Houston.

[cardpire]

First look at the new lineup...

http://mlblogsfooter.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/0801_lineup.jpg?w=382&h=512

lineup can potentially be 8/9th's hispanic on wandy nights. wonder how jim crane feels about that.

[msn]

¡pienso que es casi perfecto!

[MadMax]

can't. wait. :)

[Stack24]

can't. wait. :)

Looking forward to the next group of Astros....been a while that we had a band aid team put together. Be nice to finally start up and have something to look forward to.

[greenhippos]

Poor Wallace, guy was top 5 in batting the first 4 or 5 weeks of the season, and completely fell off a cliff. Guy couldn't hit for power to save his life.

[jim1961]

Poor Wallace, guy was top 5 in batting the first 4 or 5 weeks of the season, and completely fell off a cliff. Guy couldn't hit for power to save his life.

I wonder how much of it is Wallace changing anything, instead, opposing pitchers adjusting to his weaknesses.

[rockets934life]

God good...Durango is SKINNNNYYYYYYY

Dude makes Dee Gordon look like Sly Stallone.

[J.R.]

Think they saw larger crowds in Corpus? :p

http://yfrog.com/h4oubnvj:iphone

[BrooksBall]

Be nice to finally start up and have something to look forward to.

Agree 100%. As much as I was a fan of Berkman and Oswalt and what not, it was much more painful to watch a team that was delaying an inevitable rebuild.

We're headed in the right direction at full steam finally. It may take a while but at least we're doing it.

[bigbodymoe]

Any links for the game? Would like to see the young guys

Moe

[CJLarson]

Any links for the game? Would like to see the young guys

Moe

I 2nd this.

[BrooksBall]

God good...Durango is SKINNNNYYYYYYY

Dude makes Dee Gordon look like Sly Stallone.

Hah!

Dee Gordon is a freakin' pencil. I was a bit shocked the first time I saw him.

Not to mention the Kid 'n Play hairdo. He looked kinda like Chris Rock in one of his older movies.

[rockets934life]

Paredes looks like Robinson Cano...hope he hits like him too.

[BrooksBall]

Vamos Astros, right?

[J.R.]

Look at these kids go!

[BrooksBall]

Paredes looks like Robinson Cano...hope he hits like him too.

Heh... Bogusevic looks a bit like Mark Teixeira but we know how that's working out...

[rockets934life]

For one AB he did lol...Paredes is intriguing, i've liked him since we traded for him.

[BrooksBall]

Bud's gonna hit a dinger one of these days...

[MourningWood]

Paredes, baby!

[rockets934life]

Paredes has power and speed, no doubt, his problem is learning to take a pitch. If he puts it together...watch out.

[juicystream]

For one AB he did lol...Paredes is intriguing, i've liked him since we traded for him.

If he could walk more frequently, he could be great, but I'm not expecting much of an improvement in that area. Will need to show a solid glove at 3B.

[BrooksBall]

Stating the obvious but hitters rarely show a lot of improvement with their eye this late in development. That kind of skill is innate to extent and the majority of the developmental aspect occurs before we even know of them.

Marginal improvement is usually a best-case scenario.

[BrooksBall]

Also doesn't mean they can't be effective hitters. Cano doesn't walk much as an example. You like for any hitter to have a good eye, plate discipline, etc... but it's not the end-all, be-all. However, if you don't draw walks, you better hit for at least some power, esp. if you play any of the corner positions.

Where do they project Paredes playing if he sticks long-term?

[juicystream]

Stating the obvious but hitters rarely show a lot of improvement with their eye this late in development. That kind of skill is innate to extent and the majority of the developmental aspect occurs before we even know of them.

Marginal improvement is usually a best-case scenario.

Every year we talked about hoping Bourn/Pence would improve in that same area and they have better BB rates than Paredes. And also how it was what prevented Lee from being an elite player.

[rockets934life]

Last year was Paredes first full season of minor league ball, he still has time to adjust. He got called up WAY to early but so be it.

[juicystream]

Also doesn't mean they can't be effective hitters. Cano doesn't walk much as an example. You like for any hitter to have a good eye, plate discipline, etc... but it's not the end-all, be-all. However, if you don't draw walks, you better hit for at least some power, esp. if you play any of the corner positions.

Where do they project Paredes playing if he sticks long-term?

Has to be 3B in Houston. Too many other 2B, including Altuve. If he was capable of SS, he would have been left there. He's never played in the OF.

[rockets934life]

Yea 3B probably although he isn't one, I think he may turn into a fall back option if Altuve fails at the big league level.

[BrooksBall]

Last year was Paredes first full season of minor league ball, he still has time to adjust. He got called up WAY to early but so be it.

No doubt, he could absolutely adjust in a lot of areas but don't expect much of an improvement in his eye... that's all I'm saying. Power, defense, details of the game, etc... sure.

[rockets934life]

Bud doesn't have his best stuff, not sure how long he'll last tonight.

Votto is AWESOME even in an off year, for him.

[juicystream]

Bud doesn't have his best stuff, not sure how long he'll last tonight.

Votto is AWESOME even in an off year, for him.

I don't think its fair to call it an off year, because he is still very on. I didn't realize how great he truly is. Very similar to Berkman.

[BrooksBall]

I have nothing to back it up but after putting up super elite numbers last season, I think pitchers are making even greater adjustments when facing him. His walk rate is at a career high which likely reflects him getting less pitches to smash than he was in the past. It seems like he's starting to readjust to that which you'd expect from a hitter of his caliber.

[juicystream]

Jimmy P is bigger than I thought. I see what was meant by him looking like Cano. He stands tall in the box, similar to Cano.

[BrooksBall]

Yea, Berkman is a very good comparison. Votto could end up being even marginally better as hard as that would be to do. His last season was better than Berkman's best but he's got a long way to go to outdo Berkman, career-wise. And if Berkman maintains this pace for the last 2 months of the season (unlikely, esp. if the shoulder issue persists), he'd actually put up a season better than his or Votto's best.

[PuzzledFan]

I think a lot of Norris, but bringing him back out for the sixth is pretty optimistic.

[juicystream]

What happened to Norris? I wasn't listening, and now see there was an injury delay, and he is out of the game.

[BrooksBall]

I think a lot of Norris, but bringing him back out for the sixth is pretty optimistic.

I see no issue. We aren't playing for the standings at this point and his pitch count was fine. I like that they're working on extending him.

[BrooksBall]

What happened to Norris? I wasn't listening, and now see there was an injury delay, and he is out of the game.

I missed it, too. I figured they just pulled him.

[rockets934life]

I think Bud has a blister. Rodriguez has some nice stuff.

[juicystream]

I missed it, too. I figured they just pulled him.

Alyson Footer tweeted he walked off with athletic trainer.

[TheChosenOne]

well, glad to hear it was something else other than Bud allowing the entire team to reach base 10 times.

hopefully nothing serious.

[BrooksBall]

Looks like the Pirates could be hitting that inevitable slide/regression (statistically).

[BrooksBall]

well, glad to hear it was something else other than Bud allowing the entire team to reach base 10 times.

By 10 you mean 13, right? Walked 3 as well.

[BrooksBall]

Kipnis with his 2nd jack in as many games. The Indians better save some of these runs... they barely score any on most nights.

As Astro fans, we finally get to start looking forward to young talent coming up over the next few years. The "new era" is on the horizon.

[TheChosenOne]

By 10 you mean 13, right? Walked 3 as well.


Yeah, it was in jest :). Seemingly the entire reds team have been on the base paths a lot. Rough day for Bud, including walks essentially gave up 13 hits in 5 innings.

[BrooksBall]

Yeah, it was in jest :). Seemingly the entire reds team have been on the base paths a lot. Rough day for Bud, including walks essentially gave up 13 hits in 5 innings.

My bad... yea... seems like the rest of MLB has been on base a lot against us too. :o

[rockets934life]

Kipnis with his 2nd jack in as many games. The Indians better save some of these runs... they barely score any on most nights.

As Astro fans, we finally get to start looking forward to young talent coming up over the next few years. The "new era" is on the horizon.

What did you think of the big trade for the Indians? They basically wiped out the farm system.

[BrooksBall]

Up next for Arroyo after his baseball career.... Broadway!

http://files.sydbarrettpinkfloyd.com/uploaded_images/EMIManSqLegKick9-753546.jpg

[juicystream]

I think Bud has a blister. Rodriguez has some nice stuff.

Just confirmed by the Astros radio team.

And tweeted by Footer. Middle right finger.

[BrooksBall]

What did you think of the big trade for the Indians? They basically wiped out the farm system.

lol... not even close, bro.

I put together a long post on it... I'll dig it up.

The Indians have one of the deepest farms in baseball. Gave up their 2 best pitching prospects and 2 good but replaceable additional players but they didn't come anywhere in the realm of depleting their system. The only reason they didn't have a consensus top 5 farm system was the relative lack of sure things. Almost nobody touches them in depth, particularly pitching depth, which is why this trade made a lot more sense than you would think based on some shallow observations made by "experts."

[BrooksBall]

Be careful what you read, r934. Lots of hacks out there.

http://bbs.clutchfans.net/showpost.php?p=6250579&postcount=517

If the Indians aren't contending this time next year, they'll be able to "easily" reflip Jimenez for at least 75% of what they gave up... maybe more depending on how he performs and what the market is like. Jimenez is under club control through 2013 on an extremely club-friendly contract. Even if he performs up and down like he did this season, there will be plenty of interest. It was a calculated risk and despite giving up a lot, the Indians could absorb it without hurting their future, maybe at all if they reflip Jimenez for a good price.

[BrooksBall]

09:$0.75M, 10:$1.25M, 11:$2.8M, 12:$4.2M, 13:$5.75M club option ($1M buyout), 14:$8M club option ($1M buyout)

That is why he's getting paid under this contract. Ridiculous, even if he's a #2 and wildly inconsistent.

The Indians got the top pitcher on the market without giving up Chisenhall or Kipnis. They couldn't afford to part with position players as much as pitchers. Pomeranz and White are both elite prospects, esp. Pomeranz, but that is one of the many values of having a healthy farm system - you can make deals in areas of depth and not skip a beat, esp. with a contract like Jimenez' that can easily be reflipped. It isn't even beyond question that the Indians end up getting more in return if Jimenez finds his form in the AL. Worst-case, they make up for a significant portion of the losses, probably in the form of both pitching and position player prospects, which would fill more need for them.

[rockets934life]

Your the expert on the Tribe, a couple of the minor league guys I follow were pretty down on their system after the deals but at the same time were good with the deal because of the reasons you just provided.

It is nice to have such a good system...brings back wonderful memories.

[PuzzledFan]

Just confirmed by the Astros radio team.

And tweeted by Footer. Middle right finger.

Probably hurt it reacting to the Bourn trade.

[rockets934life]

Calling it right now...walk off homer for JD Martinez. Well, if they keep them at bay in the 9th.

[BrooksBall]

It is nice to have such a good system...brings back wonderful memories.

We'll be there again... and as of now, we don't have to play in the AL... and we have more money to spend, esp relative to the league we play in.

And I'm far from an expert... I'm just an average fan who pays attention to the team which gives you an edge up on some of the hacks, who typically have just casual knowlege of most teams until they have to write about them (then they become "experts"). It's amazing how inaccurate some of the stuff you heard/read is coming from national sources.

[BrooksBall]

Calling it right now...walk off homer for JD Martinez. Well, if they keep them at bay in the 9th.

I'm with you on that call/hope. Was actually thinkin' it earlier.

[Major]

Is it weird that Jason Bourgeois is our #3 hitter?

[BrooksBall]

Is it weird that Jason Bourgeois is our #3 hitter?

Definitely crazy but not as much so an owner of a mid-market team trying to "win now" at all costs to the point that he completely disengrates an organization's pipeline of talent. :)

[BrooksBall]

Hitter's count...

[BrooksBall]

He could still do it... 2 or 3 innings from now.

[BrooksBall]

Pence had the tying runners in scoring position in the 8th w/ 2 outs... struck out.

Would've been a great way to endear himself to the ruthless Philly nation. I know they cheered him like crazy at the outset.

[Nick]

Almost Walt Weiss part deux...

[pacman0590]

the latin leperchaun does it again

[BrooksBall]

the latin leperchaun does it again

Found a pic of Altuve from last St. Paddy's Day:

http://evenshine.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/dsc03163_edited.jpg?w=500&h=445

[BrooksBall]

In my mind, the question isn't if Nyjer Morgan is on drugs, it's what kind(s) and how often he takes them. I understand that he's a whacky personality but I just get the gut sense that he's on something as well based on his eyes, the way he interviews, etc... I may be wrong but it won't shock me if he gets busted for some kind of stimulant or something.

/random observation that has nothing to do with the Astros

[cardpire]

In my mind, the question isn't if Nyjer Morgan is on drugs, it's what kind(s) and how often he takes them. I understand that he's a whacky personality but I just get the gut sense that he's on something as well based on his eyes, the way he interviews, etc... I may be wrong but it won't shock me if he gets busted for some kind of stimulant or something.

/random observation that has nothing to do with the Astros

haha...him being on drugs is almost too obvious of a call, that i'm inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt and say he isn't. just a weird goofball.

[juicystream]

Almost Walt Weiss part deux...

It was a great play by Phillips. Robbed Altuve of a hit, but at least we got the W.

[bobrek]

It was a great play by Phillips. Robbed Altuve of a hit, but at least we got the W.

And it should have been an error on the catcher as opposed to a fielder's choice. Of course, that would have taken the GWRBI away from Altuve, but everyone who saw that play, knows he smoked that one.

[Nick]

And it should have been an error on the catcher as opposed to a fielder's choice. Of course, that would have taken the GWRBI away from Altuve, but everyone who saw that play, knows he smoked that one.

Yep. The ol... "this can't be reflected in the box score".

That's two GWRBI in the last week for him... maybe he can lead the league in that vague stat...

[TheChosenOne]

Whew. Nice to get a win for once this time. A nice break their catcher dropping that ball.

[TheChosenOne]

In my mind, the question isn't if Nyjer Morgan is on drugs, it's what kind(s) and how often he takes them. I understand that he's a whacky personality but I just get the gut sense that he's on something as well based on his eyes, the way he interviews, etc... I may be wrong but it won't shock me if he gets busted for some kind of stimulant or something.

/random observation that has nothing to do with the Astros

Nyjer Morgan is just an odd cat, period. Now he's likely on something too, but with or without the drugs... dude is mental.

[MadMax]

the latin leperchaun does it again

oh my crap, i love this nickname.

[TheChosenOne]

You know, listening to Dylan Gwinn this morning (perhaps a crime in and of itself)... he had a fair point that I hadn't thought of with regards to sending under-performing players down to the minors (Wallace, Johnson)

Why in the hell is J Happ not in the minors right now as well?

6.01 era, 4-13 W-L, 1.63 WHIP. In addition, he's making under $500,000 this year.

[Rocketman95]

You know, listening to Dylan Gwinn this morning (perhaps a crime in and of itself)... he had a fair point that I hadn't thought of with regards to sending under-performing players down to the minors (Wallace, Johnson)

Why in the hell is J Happ not in the minors right now as well?

6.01 era, 4-13 W-L, 1.63 WHIP. In addition, he's making under $500,000 this year.

people here were questioning that before and immediately after wallace/johnson were sent down.

[TheChosenOne]

people here were questioning that before and immediately after wallace/johnson were sent down.

Ahh, I see. I hadn't been following the game threads too closely until last couple of days.

[No Worries]

Why in the hell is J Happ not in the minors right now as well?

6.01 era, 4-13 W-L, 1.63 WHIP. In addition, he's making under $500,000 this year.
ARod can take his starts.

But it would not surprise me me if the Astros shut down Lyles before the September call ups. Lyles is already at about 130 innings (between MLB and AAA).

Still until then, Happ-less could be sent down.

[Buck Turgidson]

But it would not surprise me me if the Astros shut down Lyles before the September call ups. Lyles is already at about 130 innings (between MLB and AAA).
They've given him a ~170 inning limit this year.

[weslinder]

You know, listening to Dylan Gwinn this morning (perhaps a crime in and of itself)... he had a fair point that I hadn't thought of with regards to sending under-performing players down to the minors (Wallace, Johnson)

Why in the hell is J Happ not in the minors right now as well?

6.01 era, 4-13 W-L, 1.63 WHIP. In addition, he's making under $500,000 this year.

They're trying to disprove the old adage that you have to be a pretty good pitcher to lose 20 games.

[juicystream]

They've given him a ~170 inning limit this year.

That translates to 6-7 starts remaining, which takes him to the first week of September. Get your tickets now (or more appropriately, don't wait for a game beyond the 1st week in September, since they won't sell out).

[msn]

Dylan Gwinn
The next intelligent thing I hear him say will be the first intelligent thing I hear him say.

I'll still take him, however, over that Josh Innes guy. That duo has surpassed the "Monsters of the Midday" drivelfest as the most unlistenable garbage to ever grace Houston's radio waves.

[No Worries]

They've given him a ~170 inning limit this year.
I was guessing 150-160 innings limit. I see absolutely no value add after 150 innings.

[rockets934life]

One thing about demoting Happ, does the guy have options left? I know he has been horrible this season but it's way to early to give up on a relatively young LH starter. If he has options then he should have been sent to the minors at the break but if not, then it maybe something that we're just going to have to survive until he fixes whatevers wrong.

[TheChosenOne]

The next intelligent thing I hear him say will be the first intelligent thing I hear him say.

I'll still take him, however, over that Josh Innes guy. That duo has surpassed the "Monsters of the Midday" drivelfest as the most unlistenable garbage to ever grace Houston's radio waves.

Josh Innes is awful.

[TheChosenOne]

One thing about demoting Happ, does the guy have options left? I know he has been horrible this season but it's way to early to give up on a relatively young LH starter. If he has options then he should have been sent to the minors at the break but if not, then it maybe something that we're just going to have to survive until he fixes whatevers wrong.

It's be an aberration year for sure for him. He should have been sent down at the break, but I don't think he'll get it together anytime this season. He's a lost cause.

[Buck Turgidson]

I was guessing 150-160 innings limit. I see absolutely no value add after 150 innings.
Why 150?

[BrooksBall]

I thought Bogusevic was gonna jump over Altuve.

[juicystream]

One thing about demoting Happ, does the guy have options left? I know he has been horrible this season but it's way to early to give up on a relatively young LH starter. If he has options then he should have been sent to the minors at the break but if not, then it maybe something that we're just going to have to survive until he fixes whatevers wrong.

Happ still has options. Wade said a month ago that they weren't even considering sending him down.

[Bear_Bryant]

please stop swinging at the first pitch every time Altuve!!

[BrooksBall]

I don't wanna dig through the other thread... was there any further word on why they chose not to sell high on Barmes? Did Wade comment on it?

[BrooksBall]

please stop swinging at the first pitch every time Altuve!!

The patience will come. He'll see a lot of pitches to hit early on. If he does enough damage, pitchers will be more careful. I think he'll also learn to adjust when he realizes that he can't do as much with certain pitches as he could at the lower levels.

[juicystream]

I don't wanna dig through the other thread... was there any further word on why they chose not to sell high on Barmes? Did Wade comment on it?

Likes his veteran presence. Thinks he sets a good example for young players.

I don't mind keeping him, especially if he stays next year and becomes a type B FA. I'm doubtful he will take a one year deal though. Don't know if he is capable of sneaking into B level at the end of this season.

[BrooksBall]

There you go... 1st walk.

[BrooksBall]

Likes his veteran presence. Thinks he sets a good example for young players.

I don't mind keeping him, especially if he stays next year and becomes a type B FA. I'm doubtful he will take a one year deal though. Don't know if he is capable of sneaking into B level at the end of this season.

I was wondering if the presence was the factor. Couldn't see any other logical reason. There had to be interest.

He's quite a ways below Type B (5 points pretty big margin) and he's hitting well over his head. I'd say the odds are pretty slim for this season and maybe even next if he regresses offensively like you would expect a 33-year-old to do.

[BrooksBall]

I don't think we will ever get more from him than we could've before this deadline in terms of tangible assets. If the intangibles seem worth it to Wade, so be it.

[BrooksBall]

On the positive side, despite his age, it seems like he has another year or so of plus defense in him. Teams may like that enough to give up something minor, even if he is used as a utility guy or something.

[juicystream]

I was wondering if the presence was the factor. Couldn't see any other logical reason. There had to be interest.

He's quite a ways below Type B (5 points pretty big margin) and he's hitting well over his head. I'd say the odds are pretty slim for this season and maybe even next if he regresses offensively like you would expect a 33-year-old to do.

Elias projects Skip Shumaker as a Type B, and Barmes is better than him. If he had been a starter last year, and not been injured in spring training, he would probably be Type B.

[BrooksBall]

Schumaker is already a Type B at the moment. He's also a significantly better hitter for his career... about 20 points higher of an OPS+. He's also a year younger. He does play 2B but I don't know how they differentiate in that area. Also, do they factor in defense in those ratings? If so, I could see Barmes being better. If not, I don't. Regardless, I don't see Barmes making up 5 points with this amount of time left in the season, esp. if you factor in the likely regression. Even if he maintains his current level, I'm not sure he'd make it.

[juicystream]

Schumaker is already a Type B at the moment. He's also a significantly better hitter for his career... about 20 points higher of an OPS+. He's also a year younger. He does play 2B but I don't know how they differentiate in that area. Also, do they factor in defense in those ratings? If so, I could see Barmes being better. If not, I don't. Regardless, I don't see Barmes making up 5 points with this amount of time left in the season, esp. if you factor in the likely regression. Even if he maintains his current level, I'm not sure he'd make it.

Defense is taken into account (Fielding % and Total Chances). Career numbers don't matter. Only the last 2 years, in which Barmes has been a better offensive player.

It will be close, IMO, and the Elias Rankings don't always match exactly with MLBTradeRumors. Of course we will see at the end of the season.

[BrooksBall]

Just found this: http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2007/10/stats-used-for.html

Looks like 2B and SS are treated equally. Some basic defensive metrics are used as well. 5 points is still a big margin. I'm not sure he makes it up.

[juicystream]

Chris Johnson was within 1.5 points last week, with only one unranked player in front of him.

[BrooksBall]

Schumaker was better offensively last season but it looks like Elias doesn't look at park factors, which is absurd if that info is accurate.

Anyway, the point here isn't to compare Barmes to Schumaker. The question is whether Barmes can make up 5 points or so in the ratings before the end of the season and become a Type B. That's a significant margin to make up with this amount of time left in the season even if he maintains his current numbers which is unlikely.

[juicystream]

Just found this: http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2007/10/stats-used-for.html

Looks like 2B and SS are treated equally. Some basic defensive metrics are used as well. 5 points is still a big margin. I'm not sure he makes it up.

The number of players ahead of him is more concerning than the 5 point difference. Tejada increased by 4 points in the past week. Very complicated. Amazing that Kepp is a right on the line for Type A.

[juicystream]

Dang, what happened. Started discussing Barmes, and the Reds put 5 runs up on the board.

[TheRealist137]

Just turned on the game, man who the heck are these guys playing for Houston? Crazy.

[juicystream]

Paredes with a walk. :eek: :grin:

[BrooksBall]

That's bizarre with Tejada. Maybe I'm overestimating how difficult it is to move up and down. I remember seeing only incremental improvements from week to week in players performing well. And Tejada's been on the DL, right? Maybe the fact that he's pretty much the worst player in baseball is a factor. Not playing improved his rating. :grin:

Maybe you're right. Hopefully you're right. It'd be nice to get something out of Barmes other than intangibles.

[BrooksBall]

Altuve doin' it in the field, too. That was pretty sweet.

[BrooksBall]

Downs is now a little more than halfway to Counsell territory.

[BrooksBall]

Way to set an example for the kids, Carlos.

[bobrek]

Way to set an example for the kids, Carlos.

Did they show his "running"? On MLB the replay only showed the fielder. I am curious as to if Lee hustled out of the box.

[BrooksBall]

Did they show his "running"? On MLB the replay only showed the fielder. I am curious as to if Lee hustled out of the box.

I didn't see a good view either. Just frustration. It wouldn't be the first time for him but others do it too. He's faster than some realize though. My guess is that if he hustles out of the box, he's safe.

[bobrek]

I didn't see a good view either. Just frustration. It wouldn't be the first time for him but others do it too. He's faster than some realize though. My guess is that if he hustles out of the box, he's safe.

He tends to coast on balls that should be outs. I would agree that on that ball, had he been busting it the whole way down the line, he would have been safe.

[BrooksBall]

Remember when Lee showed up late for training camp a couple years back? That was probably blown out of proportion (he claimed to have a legit excuse) and it may not be entirely reflective of him but he certainly doesn't carry the rep of being the most dedicated of players. If nothing else, you just hope he sets a decent example for the youngins for the rest of his time here.

[BrooksBall]

If you wanna be optimistic, one good thing about Lee's character is that he always seems to be enjoying himself. Probably too much so but at least he'll keep things light in the locker room while we're doing a lot of losing. I genuinely liked Oswalt but as a counter example, he probably wasn't the ideal type to have around in this situation.

[BrooksBall]

Chapman's numbers are pretty interesting: 31.1 IP, only 9 hits, and 47 Ks. Obviously the 25 BBs play into that low hit count but it's more than just that. He has some crazy ability if he can harness it.

[juicystream]

That's bizarre with Tejada. Maybe I'm overestimating how difficult it is to move up and down. I remember seeing only incremental improvements from week to week in players performing well. And Tejada's been on the DL, right? Maybe the fact that he's pretty much the worst player in baseball is a factor. Not playing improved his rating. :grin:

Maybe you're right. Hopefully you're right. It'd be nice to get something out of Barmes other than intangibles.

Could always be a mistake as well.

I figure you wouldn't get much for him, which is why I don't mind the decision, but Pedro Feliz got us Carpenter, so you never know.

[BrooksBall]

Could always be a mistake as well.

I figure you wouldn't get much for him, which is why I don't mind the decision, but Pedro Feliz got us Carpenter, so you never know.

Probably not a mistake. More likely it's complicated like you suggested. We'll see what happens. Barmes moved up up like 1.5 points in just a week but he's playing really well right now. I wonder what happens should he regress a little for a couple of weeks.

Do you know if it's like a rolling 2 year thing, i.e., like 2 years prior to whatever the current day is? I assume it works something like that as opposed to just whatever amount of the current season has been played plus the prev season.

[rockets934life]

Sucky game in many ways, Wandy was plain nasty through four and then walked the pitcher...yuck.

Like what I see from Paredes so far, seems like he has no fear...see the ball, hit the ball.

[BrooksBall]

Brewers threatening late. Starting to pull away from the pack a little. The Pirates with L6 tonight. I'll feel for their fans a bit if the Pirates can't at least keep things interesting down the stretch. The fans deserve that much at least.

[BrooksBall]

Make that L5 for the Pirates. Bad potential loss for the Brewers. Scored 0 w/ bases loaded, no outs.

[BrooksBall]

Like what I see from Paredes so far, seems like he has no fear...see the ball, hit the ball.

Hey, that's better than CJ's motto: "See the ball or don't see the ball, just swing anyway." :)

[rockets934life]

Hey, that's better than CJ's motto: "See the ball or don't see the ball, just swing anyway." :)

LOL...CJ's swing always seemed to me like it was in slow motion, Paredes' swing seem like a laser and has a nice arm too.

[BrooksBall]

LOL...CJ's swing always seemed to me like it was in slow motion, Paredes' swing seem like a laser and has a nice arm too.

No doubt... CJ doesn't have very good bat speed. On the plus side, it stays in the zone longer and he has pretty good control. The problem was his eye... it just wasn't (or "hasn't yet been" if you wanna be optimistic) anywhere close to ML caliber. He couldn't adjust to certain pitches.

[BrooksBall]

Pretty interesting game in MIL. MIL had a great chance to pretty much put the game away and take a 4.5 game lead in the division. They blew it, then the Cards had a very good chance to at least take the lead, couldn't do it either.

[BrooksBall]

Why I Think Nyjer Morgan May Be On Drugs

By BrooksBall

-glossy eyes
-dilated pupils
-didn't know what inning it was after hitting walk-off
-kamikazes into catchers on a regular basis
-throws baseballs at fans
-attempts superman punches on pitchers
-is unphased by blindside clotheslines when attempting superman punches on pitchers
-taunts entire stadium of fans after previous two acts
-see any Nyjer Morgan interview

I rest my case. :)

[BrooksBall]

Both Bourn and Pence had good nights at the plate.

[rockets934life]

WOW Molina just went insane...never seen that from him.

[BrooksBall]

To add to the previous list, just learned that he may have at least some history of drug use.

-got kicked out of hockey camp for smoking weed
-something about taking a dump in a Gatorade bottle while likely on something

Have no source so it could be totally invalid.

I'm building my case. Heh. Don't really care... just amuses me.

[BrooksBall]

WOW Molina just went insane...never seen that from him.

I just caught the replay. Only saw the end of it initially.

He's looking at some kind of suspension for sure, maybe multiple games. Bumped the ump and spit on him, even if unintentionally.

Gotta be more to it for him to react like that. Something must've happened earlier between them, overt or otherwise... maybe even in a previous game.

[No Worries]

Why 150?
I thought that I read somewhere on the Internet (so it must be true) that baseball teams need to be careful wrt over pitching their young pitchers (less than 25 years old?). Thus, teams set innings limits.

Lyles pitched 158 innings last year in the minor. Eventually in his prime he will be pitching 200 innings or so. The Astros certainly would want Lyles to be pitching 200 innings the next time they are in a playoff run, which is not this year or next.

Again I was guessing that Lyles would be pitching 150-160 innings this year or about what he pitched last year. From below, Brad Mills disagrees and wants to pitched him 160-170 innings. I do not see any value add by the additional innings over 150 innings.

I would hate to see Lyles get hurt or shorten his career, by pitching into September this year.


Jordan Lyles Is Officially On An Innings Limit (http://mlb-baseball-blog.com/astros/jordan-lyles-is-officially-on-an-innings-limit/)

I bring all that up simply because Houston seems to be doing the right thing by both Lyles and paying attention to the Verducci Effect. Lyles threw 158 innings last season in between two levels of the minor leagues. If he is cut off around 165-170 innings this season, that means his increase won't be that huge and hopefully save him for the future.

Astros will limit rookie Jordan Lyles to 165-170 total innings. (http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/07/18/astros-will-limit-rookie-jordan-lyles-to-165-170-total-innings/)

Brad Mills told Brian McTaggart of MLB.com that Lyles likely won’t be allowed to throw more than 165-170 total innings this season between the minors and majors, as the Astros want to avoid a workload increase of more than 15-20 innings compared to last season.

[Niaperzly]

Again I was guessing that Lyles would be pitching 150-160 innings this year or about what he pitched last year. From below, Brad Mills disagrees and wants to pitched him 160-170 innings. I do not see any value add by the additional innings over 150 innings.

I would hate to see Lyles get hurt or shorten his career, by pitching into September this year.


A pitcher should stretch out their innings total incrementally until they reach near what they'll throw in a full season. Do you want Lyles throwing 150 innings 2-3 years in a row to try and keep him from injury only to have him throw 220 innings the next season in a playoff race?

[juicystream]

Why I Think Nyjer Morgan May Be On Drugs

By BrooksBall

-glossy eyes
-dilated pupils
-didn't know what inning it was after hitting walk-off
-kamikazes into catchers on a regular basis
-throws baseballs at fans
-attempts superman punches on pitchers
-is unphased by blindside clotheslines when attempting superman punches on pitchers
-taunts entire stadium of fans after previous two acts
-see any Nyjer Morgan interview

I rest my case. :)

He is the craziest baseball player I have ever seen. There is certainly something wrong with him. He has been a great addition for the Brewers though.

[rpr52121]

A pitcher should stretch out their innings total incrementally until they reach near what they'll throw in a full season. Do you want Lyles throwing 150 innings 2-3 years in a row to try and keep him from injury only to have him throw 220 innings the next season in a playoff race?

Lots of recent talk and such about about both inning and pitch count limits being bunk due to the way Nolan Ryan has attempted to change the Rangers' philosophy:

Nolan Ryan, What Hath Your Texas Rangers Wrought Upon MLB? (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/777417-nolan-ryan-what-hath-your-texas-rangers-wrought-upon-mlb)

Three-part series called "The Problem with Pitch Counts" (http://www.webball.com/cms/page7198.cfm)

Baseball too concerned with pitch count limits comparing MLB and Japanese pitchers (http://www.mlive.com/fantasysports/index.ssf/2008/06/baseball_too_concerned_with_pi.html)

Why Pitch Counts Don't Work (http://detroit4lyfe.com/articles/general-sports/why-pitch-counts-dont-work.html)

By the Numbers: Verducci Effect examined. Do innings limits make as much sense as people think? (http://www.sny.tv/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090331&content_id=1496865&vkey=42)

The Year After Effect/ (http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/the-year-after-effect/)

[rockets934life]

I don't know if the Mariners GM is a genius or the Tigers were just really desperate but the package going to Seattle is fantastic for Doug Fister and a reliever. Fister is a 4th starter at best but got two of the better prospects in the Tigers system. Wade screwed up so badly giving Wandy that 4th year option, I wonder what a team would have given up for Wandy not under his horrible contract? I just hope we can get a slightly lesser package at this point or simply hang on to him.

[juicystream]

I just took a look at our RBI leaders.

1) Carlos Lee
2) Chris Johnson
3) Brett Wallace

:o

BA:

1) Brett Wallace
2) Carlos Lee
3) Chris Johnson

Runs:

1) Lee
2) Wallace

[leroy]

I just took a look at our RBI leaders.

1) Carlos Lee
2) Chris Johnson
3) Brett Wallace

:o

BA:

1) Brett Wallace
2) Carlos Lee
3) Chris Johnson

Runs:

1) Lee
2) Wallace


http://blackandteal.com/files/2011/05/godzilla-facepalm-godzilla-facepalm-face-palm-epic-fail-demotivational-poster-12453844351.jpg

[Joshfast]

I just took a look at our RBI leaders.

1) Carlos Lee
2) Chris Johnson
3) Brett Wallace

:o

BA:

1) Brett Wallace
2) Carlos Lee
3) Chris Johnson

Runs:

1) Lee
2) Wallace


http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w80/Pirate9977/Barf.jpg

[jim1961]

I just took a look at our RBI leaders.

1) Carlos Lee
2) Chris Johnson
3) Brett Wallace

:o

BA:

1) Brett Wallace
2) Carlos Lee
3) Chris Johnson

Runs:

1) Lee
2) Wallace

I get what your saying here.

But Wallace's BA has dropped 40 pts since mid June.
Lee is over payed for his numbers.
Johnson's defense....well enough said.

[BrooksBall]

Sweet.

[dockerland]

Nice homerun by JD

[jim1961]

Lyles with a lead?

[BrooksBall]

Nice homerun by JD

Yep... kind of upper-bodied the pitch up high. Hard to do without good balance. Showed some strength as well.

[Mashing]

He wasn't known for his power in the minors, but it's clear that he's got some pop in his bat.

[BrooksBall]

See that play there... Lee was out on a similar play yesterday after likely not busting out of the box.

[BrooksBall]

He wasn't known for his power in the minors, but it's clear that he's got some pop in his bat.

More line drive power. Key for him to prove he can be more than a doubles guy at this level.

[BrooksBall]

JD seemed to throw that to 1st effortlessly. I know the rap is that he isn't very good defensively. Any updates on that? Did he improve at all according to people that watched him?

[CJLarson]

Sorry, but does anyone have a link to the game? Thanks.

[jim1961]

After that monster 2005 season, Willis still trying to get his form back.

Clubs still giving him a chance. Anyone else think his stint with the Reds is probably his last?

[BrooksBall]

Pretty nice pitch there by Lyles to induce the groundout.

[BrooksBall]

Spectacular play by Phillips to keep Altuve from a single. Fully extended superman catch.

[BrooksBall]

Wow! Nearly b2b HRs. Thought it was gone off the bat. Inches away.

[BrooksBall]

Lee didn't run hard again.

[jim1961]

Lee, after getting to .280 on 7/28, has now gone 0 for 21 since :(

[BrooksBall]

Lee, after getting to .280 on 7/28, has now gone 0 for 21 since :(

Hey, at least he's hustling and setting a good example for the young fellas. :rolleyes:

[cardpire]

JD seemed to throw that to 1st effortlessly. I know the rap is that he isn't very good defensively. Any updates on that? Did he improve at all according to people that watched him?

curious as well. was under the impression that he's adequate in left, but can only play left.

i'm pissed that i missed his first hr.

[BrooksBall]

Seriously, does Jordan Lyles sweat?

It's almost freaky how cool he is, regardless of what's going on. That is a legitimately huge intangible.

[BrooksBall]

curious as well. was under the impression that he's adequate in left, but can only play left.

i'm pissed that i missed his first hr.

Yea, if that OremLK cat is around, he should know. He keeps pretty good tabs on that kind of stuff.

Hopefully there are many more to come. I was shocked that his 2nd hit wasn't a HR. He crushed it. I think it hit the bottom of the yellow line on the Crawfish Boxes. Arguably hit that pitch better than the first one.

[jim1961]

Hey, at least he's hustling and setting a good example for the young fellas. :rolleyes:

Can we send him to AAA?

[BrooksBall]

Can we send him to AAA?

Wade and/or Mills seem dead set on keeping him in the lineup. Maybe Wade is still hoping that some kind of opportunity arises to move him before his 10-5 status kicks in. No idea. Maybe they'd be willing to pick up a bunch of his salary if some team bit just to get him off the roster.

[Ender120]

Hopefully there are many more to come. I was shocked that his 2nd hit wasn't a HR. He crushed it. I think it hit the bottom of the yellow line on the Crawfish Boxes. Arguably hit that pitch better than the first one.

I was wondering about that.

I thought if it touched the line, it was a homer?

[BrooksBall]

Martinez has crushed 3 balls tonight.

[J.R.]

Looks like he definitely got some pop in that bat.

[BrooksBall]

I was wondering about that.

I thought if it touched the line, it was a homer?

Is that the rule? Can't recall.

Either way, it may have been just below the line but it was right there. A fraction of a millimeter lower on the ball and it's gone.

Edit: I think they were just talking about it. Had it on mute. Looks like it was a little below the line... tore up the wall a little. Martinez = The Latino Natural, or El Latino Naturale

[CJLarson]

Wade and/or Mills seem dead set on keeping him in the lineup. Maybe Wade is still hoping that some kind of opportunity arises to move him before his 10-5 status kicks in. No idea. Maybe they'd be willing to pick up a bunch of his salary if some team bit just to get him off the roster.

One reason they may not do it is because it would reflect poorly on the organization. Other FA's would take note of what they did to Lee (if they sent him down), and would possibly be scared off by that.

[BrooksBall]

One reason they may not do it is because it would reflect poorly on the organization. Other FA's would take note of what they did to Lee (if they sent him down), and would possibly be scared off by that.

That's a good point. Maybe that's it.

[jim1961]

One reason they may not do it is because it would reflect poorly on the organization. Other FA's would take note of what they did to Lee (if they sent him down), and would possibly be scared off by that.

It wouldnt reflect poorly on the organization to take a guy in a 0 for 21 slump and sit him a couple games would it?

[BrooksBall]

So, Lee now 0-22 and Downs 0-23. Combined, they equal 1 Craig Counsell.

[CJLarson]

It wouldnt reflect poorly on the organization to take a guy in a 0 for 21 slump and sit him a couple games would it?

Sitting him, no. Sending him down, oh yes.

[BrooksBall]

Get these runs home, boys. Paredes has a gangsta' thing goin' on. Got some swagger.

[jim1961]

Sitting him, no. Sending him down, oh yes.

Of course, now with Walrus down at AAA, who else can play 1st ?

[bobrek]

Of course, now with Walrus down at AAA, who else can play 1st ?

Downs, Bogusevic

[jim1961]

Get these runs home, boys. Paredes has a gangsta' thing goin' on. Got some swagger.

Got half of what you wanted :grin:

[BrooksBall]

Got half of what you wanted :grin:

That post was after the Paredes hit.

Barmes down. Up to Q.

[jim1961]

Downs, Bogusevic

Not Downs. He is in his own slump. Id like to see it with Bogusevic at 1st, and Lee sitting. A lineup id like to see get a try.

[BrooksBall]

Lyles gets no love.

[jim1961]

That post was after the Paredes hit.

Barmes down. Up to Q.

ahh. Thought you were calling out Paredes for the HR. That would have worked, no?

[BrooksBall]

Yea...

Lyles has pitched very well again. That's the most important thing.

[cardpire]

Not Downs. He is in his own slump. Id like to see it with Bogusevic at 1st, and Lee sitting. A lineup id like to see get a try.

bogusevic at 1st serves even less of a purpose than lee.

at this point, i'd like lee to keep on playing every day in hopes that he goes on a tear and enhances the .0001% chance that they pay down his salary and trade him after he passes through waivers.

[BrooksBall]

I was about to post "Be careful here, Jordan."

[jim1961]

bogusevic at 1st serves even less of a purpose than lee.

at this point, i'd like lee to keep on playing every day in hopes that he goes on a tear and enhances the .0001% chance that they pay down his salary and trade him after he passes through waivers.

I'll go with the .0002% chance that Bogusevic can be a serviceable first baseman.

I say this mainly because Lee sets such a poor example. At a time when a lot of new guys are up and coming. Getting to know the organization, coaches and protocols for the first time. Watching a lazy guy trot to first and get rewarded with playing everyday isnt the message we should be giving.

No hustle. No play. Let him rot over by the water cooler.

[rockets934life]

I was about to post "Be careful here, Jordan."

I remember Willis hitting a 2nd deck HR against, I think, Roy or Andy in 2004.

Brownie having fun lol

Lyles with another good outing...good to see.

[BrooksBall]

Yep, Willis can swing the bat.

Alright, let's get Lyles off the hook and then some...

[cardpire]

I'll go with the .0002% chance that Bogusevic can be a serviceable first baseman.

I say this mainly because Lee sets such a poor example. At a time when a lot of new guys are up and coming. Getting to know the organization, coaches and protocols for the first time. Watching a lazy guy trot to first and get rewarded with playing everyday isnt the message we should be giving.

No hustle. No play. Let him rot over by the water cooler.

haha. well as long as the kids understand full well that they have to hit .300+ and 30+ HR's for 5 or 6 years before they can get paid $20 million/year and dog it for the back end of their career, i'm fine with it.

[rockets934life]

SMALL BALL...LOVE IT

[jim1961]

JD time :grin:

[BrooksBall]

2 nice bunts by Altuve. I figured he had to be better than he showed in an earlier game.

Gotta be frustrating at times for teams in contention to face teams with nothing to lose at this time of the season.

[BrooksBall]

Awesomeness!

Huge game for JD.

[cardpire]

a star is born?

[dockerland]

JD once again.

[rockets934life]

JDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDd

The Hooks errrrrrr Stros are playing some nice ball tonight.

[BrooksBall]

Blow this thang open. We smell Lyles win #1.

[dockerland]

Good idea to walk Lee.

[jim1961]

JD time :grin:

Yesss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:):):):):grin::grin::grin::grin::grin::grin::grin:;););):coo l:

[BrooksBall]

Lyles trying to contain his excitement. Talk about deserving of a win.

[BrooksBall]

With Lyles' luck though, we hit into a triple play here.

[BrooksBall]

Crap... almost as bad...

[jim1961]

Lyles trying to contain his excitement. Talk about deserving of a win.

This IS exciting!

[rockets934life]

Veterans aren't getting it done tonight, Jimmy needs too.

[Bear_Bryant]

come on paredes

[shutkip]

I almost expected that double play :mad:

[jim1961]

Even though Michaels has 2 hits, its not the veterans making the key plays tonight.

I like it :)

[BrooksBall]

Needless to say, a 1 run deficit ain't much for this Reds offense.

It could've been worse though. At least there's a pretty good chance.

Lyles at 96 pitches. Does he go back out now?

[Bear_Bryant]

Needless to say, a 1 run deficit ain't much for this Reds offense.

It could've been worse though. At least there's a pretty good chance.

Lyles at 96 pitches. Does he go back out now?

Brian Bogusevic pinch hitted for him

[BrooksBall]

Nope... 6 outs to go.

[BrooksBall]

Brian Bogusevic pinch hitted for him

Doh... didn't even realize it.

Shut the door here, boys.

[BrooksBall]

5 more

[rockets934life]

Wandy and this Rodriguez have devastating curves...

[BrooksBall]

Yep, different action but it's a nice one, too.

4 more... that was a big one there.

[jim1961]

OK, an insurance run or two please.

[rockets934life]

Wallace just hit a double and drive in a run in his AB down in OKC. Sure hope he doesn't turn into Chris Davis, pounds AAA pitching but, so far, not able to figure out big league pitching.

[BrooksBall]

Q-tastic!

[jim1961]

OK, an insurance run or two please.
Thank You Q

[rockets934life]

Well done Q...well done.

[BrooksBall]

Wallace just hit a double and drive in a run in his AB down in OKC. Sure hope he doesn't turn into Chris Davis, pounds AAA pitching but, so far, not able to figure out big league pitching.

Pretty different makeups. Davis much more of a pure power hitter. Wallace has already shown a good eye at this level, something that Davis hasn't been able to do.

[rockets934life]

Pretty different makeups. Davis much more of a pure power hitter. Wallace has already shown a good eye at this level, something that Davis hasn't been able to do.

True that, just seen so many guys have success at AAA but never make it at this level...hope Wallace makes the necessary adjustments in OKC.

[BrooksBall]

True that, just seen so many guys have success at AAA but never make it at this level...hope Wallace makes the necessary adjustments in OKC.

LaPorta is another example. He was considered a sure-fire bet, too. May still figure it out but no dice so far. That's why you should often temper expectations in this crazy sport of baseball.

Looks like the Indians are following suit with the Pirates. Really haven't played good ball in months. Division just awful. Kipnis hit a homer in his 4th straight game. That's about the only positive right now.

[rockets934life]

Reds lose tonight, their season is over...losing 2 out of 3 against the Stros would be a disaster.

[BrooksBall]

Do your thang, Melancon.

[BrooksBall]

Reds lose tonight, their season is over...losing 2 out of 3 against the Stros would be a disaster.

Gettin' to that point but I wouldn't go that far quite yet. Still a disappointing season for them up to this point. Lost tons of close games. If their pitching was anywhere near as good as it should've been...

[BrooksBall]

Alright... 2 more.

[jim1961]

........1

[rockets934life]

This guy scares me...

[Bear_Bryant]

Lyles get away from happ...he's bad luck....

[jim1961]

Come on Mark, dont nibble. Get this guy.

[BrooksBall]

Lyles get away from happ...he's bad luck....

:grin:...

[BrooksBall]

Gotta be this way for Lyles' 1st... would only be fitting.

[BrooksBall]

Smile away, kid! You deserve it.

[jim1961]

Phew...............