tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-128868932011-12-14T22:02:06.406-05:00Sussnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1131100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1130812907353315162005-11-22T10:54:00.000-05:002005-11-22T10:55:51.616-05:00

Enough of this silly blogspot URL. We've got a real address:www.futonreport.netStart usin' it, and spread the word. This blogspot is officially done.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1132201933431187412005-11-16T23:29:00.000-05:002005-11-16T23:33:00.986-05:00

OXFORD, Ohio — After Tuesday night's game against Bowling Green State University, Dave McClain knows what he'll be doing during practice for the next week: throwing the ball between his legs.McClain, the long snapper for the Miami University Redhawks, misfired on four of the team's seven punt attempts as they sailed over the head of punter Jacob Richardson. Two of those errant snaps went through

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131982001650481472005-11-14T10:25:00.000-05:002005-11-14T10:26:41.673-05:00

The NFL Elimination contest just wasn't girl-proof.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131949176651040152005-11-14T01:15:00.000-05:002005-11-14T01:19:58.716-05:00

BG basketball went down to Blacksburg for the NABC Classic (how classic can it be? I never heard of it) and didn't win a single game thanks to their own players.They did, however, win one thanks to a Va-Tech player. In the second game of the round-robin tourney, Tech's A.D. Vassallo tipped in a missed shot by BG's John Floyd (SJJ HS grad) at the buzzer to give BG two points. Final score? 72-71

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131589017417053212005-11-09T21:02:00.000-05:002005-11-19T00:40:23.203-05:00

Yeah, I admit it. I bit off more than I could chew.I had this whole plan where I would write about one baseball team's '05 season per day. That's a lot of teams, but fer Chrissakes that's a lot of stats to look up, a lot of obscure stats to track down (I'm not gonna jank them from some Web site) and a bunch of analysis.There's 30 teams to write about. Thirty. That's gonna take me to December. You

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131518961470831372005-11-08T23:08:00.000-05:002005-11-09T01:50:50.863-05:00

The San Diego PadresManager: Bruce Bochy (11th year)2005: 82-80; 1st place, NL WestLost in 1st round of NLDS—1st half: 48-41—2nd half: 34-392004: 87-75; 3rd placeLeaders (hitting)Batting Avg: Brian Giles (.301)Home Runs: Ryan Klesko (18)RBI: Giles (83)On-base pct: Giles (.423)Stolen bases: Dave Roberts (23)Leaders (pitching)ERA: Jake Peavy (2.88)Wins: Peavy (13)Strikeouts: Peavy (216)Holds: Scott

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131422974923262872005-11-07T22:16:00.000-05:002005-11-08T01:21:58.580-05:00

The Chicago White SoxManager: Ozzie Guillen (2nd year)2005: 99-63; 1st place, AL CentralWorld Series Champions—1st half: 57-29—2nd half: 42-342004: 83-79; 2nd placeLeaders (hitting)Batting Avg: Craig Monroe (.290)Home Runs: Paul Konerko (40)RBI: Konerko (100)On-base pct: Konerko (.375)Stolen bases: Podsednik (59)Leaders (pitching)ERA: Mark Buehrle (3.12)Wins: Jon Garland (18)Strikeouts: Jose

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131340836599966182005-11-06T21:22:00.000-05:002005-11-07T00:20:36.616-05:00

Detroit TigersManager: Alan Trammell (3rd year)2005: 71-91; 4th place, AL Central—1st half: 42-44—2nd half: 29-472004: 72-90; 4th placeLeaders (hitting)Batting Avg: Craig Monroe (.277)Home Runs: Dmitri Young (21)RBI: Monroe (89)On-base pct: Brandon Inge (.330)Stolen bases: Nook Logan (23)Leaders (pitching)ERA: Nate Robertson (4.48)Wins: Jeremy Bonderman, Mike Maroth (15)Strikeouts: Bonderman (145

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131233664908147452005-11-05T16:52:00.000-05:002005-11-06T00:49:17.653-05:00

Washington NationalsManager: Frank Robinson (4th year)2005: 81-81; 5th place, NL East—1st half: 52-36—2nd half: 29-452004: 67-95; 5th placeLeaders (hitting)Batting Avg: Nick Johnson (.289)Home Runs: Jose Guillen (24)RBI: Guillen (76)On-base pct: Johnson (.408)Stolen bases: Brad Wilkerson (8)Leaders (pitching)ERA: John Patterson (3.13)Wins: Livan Hernandez (15)Strikeouts: Patterson (185)Holds:

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131176919108857622005-11-04T21:52:00.000-05:002005-11-06T00:35:35.326-05:00

Tampa Bay Devil RaysManager: Lou Piniella (3rd year)2005: 67-95; 5th place, AL East—1st half: 28-61—2nd half: 39-342004: 70-91; 4th placeLeaders (hitting)Batting Avg: Carl Crawford (.301)Home Runs: Jorge Cantu (28)RBI: Cantu (117)On-base pct: Julio Lugo (.362)Stolen bases: Crawford (46)Leaders (pitching)ERA: Scott Kazmir (3.77)Wins: Mark Hendrickson (11)Strikeouts: Francis (174)Holds: Joe

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1131084367951183722005-11-04T01:14:00.000-05:002005-11-04T01:18:22.056-05:00

Colorado RockiesManager: Clint Hurdle (4th year)2005: 67-95; 5th place, NL West—1st half: 31-56—2nd half: 33-392004: 68-94; 4th placeLeaders (hitting)Batting Avg: Todd Helton (.320)Home Runs: Helton (20)RBI: Helton (89)On-base pct: Helton (.445)Stolen bases: Matt Holliday (14)Leaders (pitching)ERA: Jamey Wright (5.46)Wins: Jeff Francis (14)Strikeouts: Francis (128)Holds: Mike DeJean (18)Saves:

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1130905646138236172005-11-01T18:18:00.000-05:002005-11-04T22:03:01.260-05:00

Milwaukee BrewersManager: Ned Yost (3rd year)2005: 81-81; 3rd place, NL Central--1st half: 42-46--2nd half: 39-352004: 67-94; 6th placeLeaders (hitting)Batting Avg: Brady Clark (.306)Home Runs: Carlos Lee (32)RBI: Lee (114)On-base pct: Geoff Jenkins (.375)Stolen bases: Bill Hall (18)Leaders (pitching)ERA: Doug Davis (3.84)Wins: Chris Capuano (18)Strikeouts: Davis (204)Holds: Julio Santana (11)

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1130717655863783792005-10-30T19:13:00.000-05:002005-10-30T19:14:15.876-05:00

Coming soon: a team-by-team look back at the 2005 season.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1130540312617497032005-10-28T18:57:00.000-04:002006-07-21T12:13:43.506-04:00

I was thinking about it the other day, and I realized that there isn't a National League team that I really care about watching or following. In fact, I really don't have much use for the National League in general. I mean, sure, Inter-League games are great because then people in cities with AL teams can see their favorite players in the NL. However, I just don't think the National League is

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1130388020686628812005-10-27T00:39:00.000-04:002005-10-27T00:40:54.326-04:00

SOMEWHERE, DAVID JUSTICE is watching and smiling.Justice was the last person to drive in the only run of a 1-0 game that won the World Series (Game 6 in '95.)On the night of October 26, 2005, Jermaine Dye was the man to provide the only run batted in during Chicago's Game 4 victory against the Houston Astros in the 2005 World Series.It is the first World Series win for the South Siders in 88

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1130133629788541852005-10-24T01:58:00.000-04:002005-10-24T02:03:39.796-04:00

Game 1        1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 ... R H EHouston 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 ... 3 7 1Chicago 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 X ... 5 10 0THE SERIES OPENER featured two former Yankee teammates: Roger Clemens and Jose Contreras. Then again, we needed a talking point going into this series other than "it's close," because nobody knew what to expect.Chicago's Jermaine Dye began the series with the first run, a solo homer in

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1130032963243435392005-10-22T21:52:00.000-04:002005-10-22T22:02:43.250-04:00

Bowling Green was a 25-point favorite at home against Western Michigan. The final score was 45-14.Bowling Green had the 14."The hell?" you may rightfully ask.Omar Jacobs was injured early and his backup Anthony Turner threw 2 interceptions as WMU piled on 24 2nd quarter points to shock the Falcons at Doyt Stadium.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1130020948384245322005-10-22T16:52:00.000-04:002005-10-22T18:42:28.450-04:00

The last five World Series have featured classic "David vs. Goliath" matchups: 2000: The defending champion Yankees vs. the "other" New York guys, the Mets 2001: Those Yankees again vs. the nascent Arizona Diamondbacks 2002: Bonds & the dangerous Giants vs. the "Rally Money" Angels 2003: The Yankees + Giambi + Contreras + Matsui, vs. the young-team-old-manager Florida Marlins

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1129701989373949762005-10-19T01:49:00.000-04:002005-10-19T02:22:12.503-04:00

OCCASIONALLY AN ATHLETE will make a daring jump into the American government. Notables include Bill Bradley (D-NJ, F-NY) and Gerald Ford (U of M center, US of A president). Sports icons like Mike Ditka and Richard Petty and have contemplated getting into politics.On the flipside, Congress will intervene in sports, like the Congressional hearings regarding steroids. But for the most part, the two

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1129603332657925512005-10-17T22:41:00.000-04:002005-10-17T22:42:12.660-04:00

WASHINGTON -- Karl Rove's in trouble. With his wife.Thanks to her, the world knows that he thinks terrorists shouldn't get therapy ... Joe Wilson's wife should take his last name ... John McCain might have jungle fever ... the cleanliness of his garage isn't very important.And the Associated Press was there to see if the neocon owned large amounts of Neoprene. The inventory, seen from outside:--

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1129525142748965022005-10-17T00:56:00.000-04:002005-10-17T00:59:02.756-04:00

ALCS Game 5: Chicago White Sox 6, Los Angeles Angels 3Contreras Controls Angels in Complete GameThat September meltdown doesn't look so bad anymore for the White Sox. They got in the playoffs. And that's all the opportunity they needed.With a 6-3 triumph in Los Angeles, Chicago's "other" team is now "the" team in the Windy City.On the arm of Jose Contreras (who went the distance, a feat done in

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1129500009396926472005-10-16T17:55:00.000-04:002005-10-16T18:00:09.413-04:00

The White Sox bullpen hasn't allowed a run in the ALCS. Or a walk. Or even a runner on base.In fact, they haven't even made an appearance in four games.Four complete games have helped the Monochrome Footwear attain a 3-1 lead entering Sunday's Game 5.Jose Contreras, Mark Buehrle, Jon Garland and Freddy Garcia have a combined 2.00 ERA in the first four games. And one more win by Contreras tonight

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1129324251531024252005-10-15T09:33:00.000-04:002006-07-21T12:14:09.976-04:00

Guys, pay attention. Its that time of year again. When Hallmark's 4th quarter sales begin to rise, chocolate companies sales go through the roof, and the girls expect some kind of special treatment like today is different from any other day.Heads up. It is different. Buy the cards, buy the chocolates, buy flowers even. There are a number of do's and don'ts in order to keep those of the female

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1129181269911478932005-10-13T01:08:00.000-04:002005-10-13T01:38:47.666-04:00

ALCS Game 2 - White Sox 2, Angels 1A.J. PIERZYNSKI, WHO has had a marvelous post-season for his White Sox thus far, yet again helped his team by striking out.Joe Crede has to feel good afterhis game-winning double (Getty Images)Yes, apparently you can do that and be a help.With a 1-1 score in the ninth inning, Pierzynski, at-bat with two outs and a full count, swung on a Kelvim Escobar pitch too

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1129153854390627582005-10-12T17:43:00.000-04:002005-10-12T17:50:54.440-04:00

THE LOS ANGELES Angels had spent much of the last three days on someone else's wings. In a span of 52 hours, they flew over 5,000 miles from New York to Los Angeles, then from Los Angeles to Chicago. And there was little time for rest. As the Angels arrived at their Chicago hotel at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday morning, they had to play Game 1 of the ALCS in less than 14 hours.And their starting pitcher,

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1129012729747619762005-10-11T02:36:00.000-04:002005-10-11T02:38:49.760-04:00

I WAS WRONG about every divisional series.Yankees. Red Sox. Braves. Yes, even the -- gulp -- Padres.Hey, at least I was consistent. If I was right about just one series, notably the Yankees, then I would have looked worse. "Oh, way to go out on a limb and pick the team with a $200 million salary."0-and-4 is beyond bad. 0-and-4 is gloriously off-the-mark. It's a direct result of over-thinking,

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1128663958492648712005-10-07T01:44:00.000-04:002005-10-07T01:45:58.533-04:00

TRY AS THEY may, the San Diego Padres couldn't get the job done against Mark Mulder (1-0) and the Cardinals as St. Louis claimed a 6-2 victory to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-5 series.Mulder scattered 8 hits over 6 2/3 innings, allowing just a single run.But it wasn't until St. Louis' fifth run of the game that was driven in by a base hit. A third-inning by Padre SS Khalil Greene's

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1128402211652059872005-10-04T00:57:00.000-04:002005-10-04T01:03:31.663-04:00

Playoffs. (Say it like you're Jim Mora.)AFTER A GRUELING 161-game season, 20 teams were eliminated from the playoffs. Judgment was reserved until the 162nd game, whether the Astros or Phillies and the Indians or Red Sox would become Wild Card contenders in the playoffs. As the Astros and Red Sox won their final games, they assured a spot in MLB's version of Oktoberfest.The divisional playoffs

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1128352528504847442005-10-03T11:15:00.000-04:002006-07-21T12:14:41.610-04:00

I read the title of an AP article last Friday about the new Jodie Foster thriller Flightplan. Knowing that I was going to go see it the next day, and assuming reading it would probably spoil the movie for me, I held off writing this post until after I saw it. for those of you who have not seen the movie and don't wish to know what the ending is, turn away now. If you don't care, allow me to spoil

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1128204956794418462005-10-01T18:15:00.000-04:002005-10-01T18:18:38.400-04:00

THE YANKEES ENDURED a season of almosts.Jason Giambi was almost sent to Triple-A Columbus., Gary Sheffield was almost traded to the Mets. Joe Torre and Brian Cashman were almost fired. The Yankees almost finished in fourth place.But Giambi found his swing. Sheffield stayed on the team. So did their manager and GM. And after the Orioles and Blue Jays flew south, they caught the Red Sox.And the

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1128031495160528792005-09-29T18:54:00.000-04:002006-07-21T12:15:12.596-04:00

Today's news-worthy post was a little more difficult to find than the past few. In fact, I almost wrote about my surprise finding that Ball Park Franks now come in a resealable package.After digging for a while, I found a few reports on a finding all the way from Ogasawara, Japan. According to CDNN - The Cyber Divers News Network, "Japanese zoologists have made the first recording of a live giant

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1127882300778613312005-09-28T00:34:00.000-04:002005-09-28T00:38:20.783-04:00

When/If John Roberts becomes Chief Justice of the United States, He will make a great impression with everyone when he first rules that Anna Nicole doesn't see a damn cent of that inheritance.(Update: I still care a lot about baseball. I've just been swamped at work. Perhaps Friday night something will pop onto the site)

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1127838869678896242005-09-27T13:17:00.000-04:002005-09-27T13:18:01.836-04:00

As I mentioned a few weeks ago, TV's Gilligan passed away. Nick at Night lost another legend on Sunday, Don Adams, who is best known as Maxwell Smart from the 60's TV show Get Smart, as well as the voice of Inspector Gadget.According to an AP report, Adams died at age 82 of a lung infection late Sunday at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. His friend and former agent Bruce Tufeld stated the actor broke

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1127758442331061552005-09-26T15:41:00.000-04:002006-07-21T12:13:18.616-04:00

There have been many big news stories in the past few weeks, from hurricanes, to gas prices, to protests. But this morning I found a gem of a story. It didn't deal with politics or disasters or anything of that sort. Us Weekly reported that Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore got married over the weekend.The actor who is best known as the dumb kid on That 70's Show married his MILF girlfriend Saturday

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1127034792647254602005-09-18T05:10:00.000-04:002005-09-18T05:13:12.653-04:00

The University of Florida Gators football team, under the tutelage of their young head coach Urban Meyer, beat the No. 5 ranked Tennessee Volunteers 16-7 Saturday night. It's hard to believe it, but it's 2005 and Urban Meyer, in his 50th game as a college football head coach, beat the first top-five team of his career. Four short years ago he was beginning his head coaching career at a very

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1126923115271299662005-09-16T22:09:00.000-04:002005-09-16T22:11:55.276-04:00

With an 8-3 victory over Indy, sweeping the Indians and capturing the Governor's Cup for the first time in 38 years.So much for my dismay over a non-contending Tigers team sweeping up all the good talent for the pros, leaving little behind. They apparently had enough hitting and pitching to survive the first round against Norfolk and to cruise through the finals.I grew up with this team being bad

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1126711265758057582005-09-14T14:30:00.000-04:002005-09-14T14:35:05.463-04:00

Often times when I get home from work, and even sometimes before work, and when I'm not doing anything at all, I channel surf. Last night was one of those nights.As I was reading highlights about last nights Indians win over Oakland, I laughed out loud. Reading an article by AP Sports Writer Tom Withers, I was amazed by the wonderful use of adjectives in his description of the game. For example,

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1126672466719679442005-09-14T00:28:00.000-04:002005-09-14T00:34:26.720-04:00

A 10-8 win over Indy.Could the Fifth Third Fowl win the International League and break a long drought?

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1126672048676825472005-09-14T00:23:00.000-04:002005-09-14T00:27:28.683-04:00

I told ya this game was tough, especially when the 49ers, Dolphins, Lions, Buccaneers, Redskins and Cowboys -- none of whom went better than 6-10 in '04 -- all win in the first week.But with a few last-minute entrants -- picking the Monday night game -- the field did better than .500, which, in the upset-fertile first week, is quite an accomplishment.But the first week did claim some sports nuts.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1126292029586021802005-09-09T14:53:00.000-04:002005-09-09T14:55:45.936-04:00

This weekend features several head-to-head teams vying for position in the September race for the postseason. I won't use the "six pack" metaphor, as it is very overused, but there are six great series to watch which can change the shape of the divisional and wild card races.6. Padres at Dodgers. While the NL West is loaded with OK-at-best teams, San Diego is beginning to pull away from the pack,

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1126153926620188642005-09-08T00:30:00.000-04:002005-09-08T00:32:06.626-04:00

When I bitch about the team having no offense, at least they have Marcus Thames.Mud Hens beat Tides 6-5.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1126104130795718172005-09-07T10:40:00.000-04:002005-09-07T10:42:10.800-04:00

Last Friday, TV lost an icon. The man who was known as Bob Denver to some, and Gilligan to most, passed away due to complications of cancer treatment. For a show that only ran 4 years, from 1964-1967, Gilligan's Island is a fan favorite on channels like Nick at Nite and TV Land.Little buddy, we will miss you.For more information, check out this article from USA Today.

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1125965366317730502005-09-05T20:09:00.000-04:002005-09-05T20:09:27.006-04:00

You think you're so hot with football predictions? Now you can prove it to the world.How "NFL Elimination" works: Each week, pick a team you think will win by posting a comment. If you're wrong, you are OUT. You can only pick each team once in the season. So you can pick the Patriots to win in Week 1, but you can't pick them for the rest of the season! Multiple people are allowed to

Sussnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1125641852671535072005-09-04T15:32:00.000-04:002005-09-04T16:00:40.156-04:00

Waking up early, missing the bus because you didn't do the previously mentioned action, having your lunch money stolen by some guy threatening to give you a swirly, and then realizing you forgot to do your homework for half your classes. High school can be rough times. Is there anything to look forward to during "back to school" time? When the end of the week rolls around, it doesn't matter how

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1125451912306339062005-09-02T11:17:00.000-04:002005-09-02T11:40:12.403-04:00

Cleveland Indians. It's difficult to find a better bullpen -- top to bottom -- outside Cuyahoga County. Bob Wickman is the definitive anchor, saving 35 of 40. Indeed, he does have five blown saves, four of which have been losses, and his ability to save "the big one" has been questioned. His save count may be inflated because his bullpen is so good, he gets more opportunities. Setting him up is

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1125617141486648042005-09-01T22:33:00.000-04:002005-09-01T22:34:31.570-04:00

Greetings readers. As you may already know, I have been brought in as The Futon Reports second writer. I seem to have made a good impression on Mr. Sussman with my writing abilities, my knowledge of baseball and my ability to sound like your grandfather telling a "When I was boy" story.However, that is not all you should expect to see in my entries on TFR since I hope to entertain all of you with

Matthew Caryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08457219185070782464noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1125552278583784182005-09-01T01:23:00.000-04:002005-09-01T01:24:38.583-04:00

On September 1, the MLB teams expand their rosters from 25 to 40. In spirit of the final month of the baseball season, the Futon Report is expanding its roster from 1 to 2.Matthew Cary has been promoted from comment writer to staff writer. If he does a good job, he'll earn a spot on next year's roster.Welcome him and his text.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1125290398357017772005-08-30T21:29:00.000-04:002005-08-30T21:58:42.586-04:00

The playoff race is very close to September, and these are the 13 teams that are either guaranteed or close to (within 3 games) one of the 8 playoff invites: Cardinals White Sox Red Sox Braves Yankees A's Angels Indians Phillies Marlins Mets Astros Nationals Padres (The Twins are 5 1/2 back of the Wild Card ... go on a run and I'll include you in this. Plus I said the

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1125369400023218492005-08-29T22:36:00.000-04:002005-08-29T22:36:40.026-04:00

OK, Arizona's playing a series in San Diego. If they can sweep, they'll be 2 1/2 back of them.Otherwise, I'm still not impressed.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1124948415267001422005-08-25T01:37:00.000-04:002005-08-25T01:42:06.316-04:00

When you're staying in Jasper, Ind. on a business trip, there's no Fox Sports Net on Holiday Inn's TV. There is ESPN, though, and lately they've been showing nothing but the Little League World Series, being held in Williamsport, Pa.So I indulged.Don't worry, I still get my fix of "Baseball Tonight." But I've been fixated just as much on the 11-to-12-year-old division of the national pastime, and

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1124914074499208132005-08-24T16:00:00.000-04:002005-08-24T16:07:54.506-04:00

When other people write stuff, it saves me the time to do it.College roommate/curling teammate Matt Cary wrote a rather lengthy and statful (ooh!) comment on the post below, so I'd do the buddy thing and feature it so you don't miss it. If today was August 23, 2004, then you may have just witnessed the Indians finish their eighth loss in a row of a 9 game losing streak. After the All-Star break

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1124752938731867332005-08-22T19:19:00.000-04:002005-08-25T01:42:21.856-04:00

The trading deadline isn't over. August 31 is the waiver trade deadline, and there's always a nugget or two that changes things in the postseason races.And, sports fans, we may have our nugget.Both the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and the St. Paul Pioneer-Press are reporting that the Twins have claimed Rangers' 2B Alfonso Soriano on waivers.This doesn't mean they have him yet, and they may not get

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1123683867242034802005-08-10T10:24:00.000-04:002005-08-10T10:24:27.250-04:00

In "Pulp Fiction" we all learned that in France a Quarter Pounder with cheese is called a Royale with cheese.If the Royals had any cheese last night, it would have been swiss, because their mitts were full of holes in the ninth inning.With a 7-2 lead going into the final inning, the Indians had narrowed the deficit to 7-5 with one out and runners at first and third. A Ron Belliard pop up into

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1123474122073510112005-08-07T23:41:00.000-04:002005-08-08T08:27:50.970-04:00

During the All-Star break, 11 of 14 teams were viable candidates for the postseason. Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles were all division leaders with the following tight Wild Card race:Minnesota . . 48-38 GBBaltimore . . 47-40 1.5New York. . . 46-40 2.0Texas . . . . 46-40 2.0Cleveland . . 47-41 2.0Oakland . . . 44-43 4.5Toronto . . . 44-44 5.0Detroit . . . 42-44 6.0So now it's about 50 games

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1123377989220211472005-08-06T21:19:00.000-04:002005-08-06T21:26:29.226-04:00

At the start of the Tigers-Indians game -- where both teams were honoring the Negro Leagues by wearing the old jerseys -- Fox Sports Detroit announcer Mario Impemba said starting pitcher Jeremy Bonderman "looked liked he belonged" in that jersey.Yikes.In today's PC world, imagine if he said that about Dmitri Young.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1123363419185930682005-08-06T17:08:00.000-04:002005-08-06T17:23:39.193-04:00

Quick ... stats!.357 BA (1st), 33 HR (2nd, 2 back), 84 RBI (3rd, 6 back).341 BA (3rd), 30 HR (4th, 5 back), 88 RBI (2nd, 2 back)The top line is Derrek Lee, who has been competing against the world for the first Triple Crown in 38 years and the first NL Crown in 68.But Albert Pujols, his top competition in the MVP voting, isn't too far behind in his chase.Neither will probably get it (Andruw Jones

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1123223495116271132005-08-05T01:37:00.000-04:002005-08-05T02:33:43.083-04:00

Reading so much negativity toward baseball makes me sick. Do these people seriously understand baseball?Fellow Blogcritic author Sal Marinello opts to cover the negative side of the game. He is skilled at writing destructively about the game, ripping to shreds Barry Bonds, Curt Schilling, the All-Star Game, Sammy Sosa and most recently Rafael Palmeiro. And often he chooses to make Jose Canseco's

Sussnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1122925591434063882005-08-01T15:45:00.000-04:002005-08-01T15:46:31.440-04:00

Orioles' first baseman Rafael Palmeiro was suspended 10 games under MLB's new drug policy, one which includes the use of steroids.It is unclear whether Palmeiro used steroids or another banned substance.Earlier this year Palmeiro reached his 3,000 career hit, making him the fourth player in MLB history with 3,000 hits and 500 home runs.Earlier this year, Palmeiro was one of a few current and

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1122871308720199782005-08-01T00:40:00.000-04:002005-08-01T00:41:48.730-04:00

Let's read the following all together, slowly and carefully, so we all believe the madness: The D-Backs are in first place.(Checks date) Yep, it's August. And the Ari-freakin-zona Diamondbacks are first in the National League West. And yet they're three games below .500 (52-55).By percentage points they lead the San Diego Padres, who are no games behind but have lost 13 of 16 since the All-Star

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1122234447470240342005-07-24T15:46:00.000-04:002005-07-24T15:47:27.476-04:00

They might try to get Barry Larkin to un-retire.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1122189902312434352005-07-24T02:37:00.000-04:002005-07-24T03:25:02.320-04:00

The Marlins came to San Francisco, and first baseman Carlos Delgado launched a deep homer into McCovey Cove.And nobody retrieved it. At least not within the duration of the SportsCenter footage.With Barry Bonds on the shelf, the dinghy ballshaggers must have decided to not skip work for once, since the Giants have no other true left-handed power hitter. When a home run lands in The Cove, it is

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1122158571210605692005-07-23T15:32:00.000-04:002005-07-24T03:31:15.216-04:00

What if there was no Wild Card?You don't hear much about the old four-division format since Commissioner Bud Selig's brainchild -- the Wild Card -- has produced amazing postseason drama. The last three World Series champs have won the Wild Card, and in the 10 years it's allowed eight teams into postseason play, four teams have been crowned champ. ('97 Marlins, '02 Angels, '03 Marlins, '04 Red Sox

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1122091901676562302005-07-23T00:10:00.000-04:002005-07-23T00:11:41.680-04:00

According to Baseball Tonight, that's Roger Clemens' road ERA this year in his first 9 starts, winning only four.And somehow he lost a game in there.Just thought I'd let you all know.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1121660816031378382005-07-17T23:33:00.000-04:002005-07-18T00:26:56.076-04:00

Tigers lose to the Royals 5-0, but when a brawl breaks out, nobody cares about the score.The Tigers definitely won the brawl, when Carlos Guillen pleaded to the umpire he was grazed by a pitch in the leg. In the next pitch, pitcher Runelvys Hernandez plunks Guillen in the helmet."You don't miss like that on a lefty."-Vance Wilson, Tigers' catcherBenches clear, yadda yadda yadda.The key video clip

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1121536638740997812005-07-16T12:23:00.000-04:002005-07-16T13:59:43.493-04:00

When Rafael Palmeiro hit an RBI double to left field, he became the 26th player to accrue 3,000 hits in a major league career.And with 566 career home runs, he joins elite company in the 3,000/500 Club: Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and Eddie Murray.But is he a Hall of Famer?Aaron, Mays and Murray were all first-ballot Hall entries. So is it a lock for him, too?The two biggest strikes against him are

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1121401275084044242005-07-14T23:54:00.000-04:002005-07-15T00:21:15.090-04:00

Far be it from me to tell a ballgame usher how to do his job, but when he tells little children not to stand in the aisle adjacent to left field, I would have chosen my words better than this:"All right, kids, go back to your seaties."Often times I find myself having to wait until people leave before I start laughing. Said quote is no exception.And the Hens lost 9-6 after Bisons manager was

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1121306367532857742005-07-13T21:45:00.000-04:002005-07-13T21:59:27.540-04:00

Half the season is over, and the second act resumes Thursday.So what are the odds for all 30 teams making the playoffs?How I came up with the numbers: 100 percentage points are allotted to each division, with an extra 100 points for each league to factor in the Wild Card spot.AL East Boston: 45. Curt Schilling's off the DL, and they have a slight lead. Start your engines.New York: 45. So

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1121214570953443612005-07-12T20:27:00.000-04:002005-07-12T20:29:30.956-04:00

Throughout Tuesday night, I will update my thoughts on the All-Star game at Blogcritics. Full thoughts will be posted here at the end.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1121045144997252512005-07-10T21:00:00.000-04:002005-07-10T23:50:42.200-04:00

The field for Monday's Century 21 Home Run Derby was announced last week. Many of these names are unfamiliar to the Derby. Career totals include this year's stats: United States: Rangers 1B Mark Teixeira (25 HR in '05, 88 HR in 3 seasons) Dominican Republic: Red Sox DH David Ortiz (21 HR, 151 in 10 seasons) Puerto Rico: Tigers C Ivan Rodriguez (6 HR, 256 HR in 15 seasons) Venezuela:

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120927245737666562005-07-09T12:36:00.000-04:002005-07-11T19:23:54.980-04:00

Last year, sports writers were licking their chops at a young pitcher named Zach Greinke.Said Rob Neyer in a June 4, 2004 column, "I don't know that we've ever seen a 20-year old pitcher quite like Greinke. ... This kid's the real thing, the best young Royals pitcher since Kevin Appier, and maybe a lot better than that."“Greinke didn't just fall victim to the sophomore slump, he deserves to have

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120789320655961112005-07-07T22:02:00.000-04:002005-07-07T22:24:49.726-04:00

Mark Teixeira has agreed to represent the U.S. in the Home Run Derby, scheduled for July 10.“I still contend Ichiro has power and never uses it.”The Texas first baseman born in Annapolis, Maryland has 22 homers on the season, and will represent a country loaded with heavy hitters, including Adam Dunn, Alex Rodriguez and Manny Ramirez.Meanwhile, the eighth country, most likely Japan, does not have

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120780254773797022005-07-07T19:31:00.000-04:002005-07-07T19:50:54.780-04:00

Tigers first baseman/designated hitter Chris Shelton is tearing up the big leagues.In 33 complete games, he's hitting .343 with 5 homers and 22 RBI. While he had a late start, he is on pace to be a serious Rookie of the Year candidate.Right now the favorites are Tad Iguchi (White Sox second baseman), Nick Swisher (A's outfielder), Robinson Cano (Yankees second baseman) and maybe Jeremy Reed (

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120709383525177502005-07-07T00:09:00.000-04:002005-07-07T00:09:43.530-04:00

Lou Piniella had a novel idea to try and turn things around in Tampa Bay.After blowing a game in the 8th with his middle relief, he's decided to flip-flop the roles of his rotation and bullpen.Essentially, Middle relief will start the games. Starters will come on in the third or fourth inning and work their way to Danys Baez, the St. Petersburg Times reports.First off, don't experiment with a

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120707811759035182005-07-06T23:39:00.000-04:002005-07-07T22:25:38.043-04:00

View both rostersThe teams are set.And after years of fans getting booed by "smart" fans for selecting undeserving players to the starting lineup, fans did pretty well this year.For the most part, at least.NATIONAL LEAGUE STARTERSDerrek Lee finally beat out Albert Pujols, although they are both having monster seasons and some argue that the second half of last season should count -- which favors

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120636127924625192005-07-06T03:43:00.000-04:002005-07-06T03:50:13.430-04:00

The Home Run Derby is looking a little different this year.In recent memory, the Derby has featured eight heavy hitters -- four from each league. The change this year is that instead of the players being selected by division, there will be a one-player-per-country limit.The idea is to celebrate international participation in the majors and also to get people ready for 2006's "World Cup" of

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120615394618890072005-07-05T21:48:00.000-04:002005-07-05T22:03:14.623-04:00

With yet another one-run victory after a 3-2 triumph over the Mets, Washington improves to 22-7 in one-run games, barely just better than the White Sox in such games.Also, surprise shutdown closer Chad Cordero saved his 30th game. The record for saves in a season is Bobby Thigpen, who came into close games and let his White Sox win 57 times in 1990.According to ESPN.com, Cordero is projected to

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120190828075030552005-06-30T22:17:00.000-04:002005-07-01T00:26:26.903-04:00

Players to be named later. It's kind of an odd stipulation to a baseball trade, but it happens a lot.Often times the player who is named later gets no attenion because he is a minor league player nobody's heard of.Now the player isn't just picked out of the entire organization, or even out of the entire level in the minor league. No, the teams say in advance which of these 5-10 players are

Sussnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1120159577432611132005-06-30T15:20:00.000-04:002005-06-30T18:07:03.006-04:00

Don't rub it. It'll sting more.Biggio grimaces after being hit by Byung-Hyun Kim Wednesday, setting the modern HBP record. (MLB.com)Craig Biggio has heard that from commentators for 268 times, the most recent time being Wednesday when he was hit by a Byung-Hyun Kim pitch on the elbow.Biggio is known for his arm brace to catch a few extra balls. But he's a great hitter and now that arm brace that

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1119941387447894442005-06-28T02:42:00.000-04:002005-06-28T02:49:47.453-04:00

TIGERS AT DIAMONDBACKS - The odds were stacked against Claudio Vargas Sunday afternoon. He was 1-4, facing a 9-4 Jeremy Bonderman, and neither Luis Gonzalez nor Troy Glaus -- the team's two top RBI leaders -- were behind him in his lineup. To boot, Carlos Guillen, hitting well above .300 prior to his injury, returned to the lineup.Undaunted, Vargas pitched 6-2/3 innings, allowing three runs and

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1119769228999477382005-06-26T02:15:00.000-04:002005-06-26T03:00:38.570-04:00

We've (I've) already established time and time again that a strong bullpen is a cornerstone of a successful ballclub.Among the top five bullpen ERAs this year include the following teams and notable relievers:1. Cleveland -- Bob Wickman, Arthur Rhodes, David Riske2. Minnesota -- Joe Nathan, Juan Rincon, J.C. Romero4. St. Louis -- Jason Isringhausen, Julian Tavares, Ray King 5. Los Angeles Angels

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1119729926740169132005-06-25T15:41:00.000-04:002005-06-25T16:06:30.580-04:00

It wasn't too much of a surprise when Boston wasn't in first place. They were underperforming, but they had rattled off eight straight postseason wins to break some kind of curse or something."“If they didn't win the World Series last year, everyone would say 'Sure, they're in first place for now. ' "They were still "hungover," as many basebalanalyststs described, from 2004.On top of that, they

Sussnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1119599489291176442005-06-24T02:35:00.000-04:002005-06-24T03:51:29.336-04:00

Uh-oh, the Cardinals have just lose three straight games.Don't get used to it, because they've only had one other 3-game losing streak this year -- when they were swept by San Diego in early May. However, the three games against Cincinnati and Pittsburgh look bad.Still, look at the aggregate stats. Among NL teams, they have the best offense (5.2 runs/game). They have the best pitching (3.74).

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1119414008992520822005-06-22T00:05:00.000-04:002005-06-22T00:20:08.996-04:00

Quite a wild affair: 31 runs 8 homers 41 hits15 extra base hits 10 pitchers 4 players with at least 4 hits3 players with at least 3 RBI 9 runs scored with 2 outs 99 batters 357 pitches 1 player out of 22 who did not reach base

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1119401600509265782005-06-21T19:25:00.000-04:002005-06-22T02:25:06.083-04:00

It's hard to get into college baseball. The game's players may one day play in the major leagues, but it will take a few years for those players to move through the minor league. Occasionally a phenom will go from college to pro in a year or two. Mark Prior comes to mind."As much as I love PTI, two lead changes in the 9th is a skosh more exciting than 'Toss Up!' "Still, the games can be exciting,

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1119334274514645602005-06-20T23:49:00.000-04:002005-06-21T15:42:47.426-04:00

Cincinnati isn't good and hasn't been good in a while. So how come they can't seem to win?They're second in the NL in offense (4.89 runs/game). They're tops in home runs (88). While they play in the Great American Ballpark, the fifth biggest (smallest?) launchpad in the majors with 1.222 a game, it ranks middle of the road in runs scored."It's as if pitchers come to Cincinnati to kill their

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1119083787390393932005-06-18T03:01:00.000-04:002005-06-18T22:03:01.033-04:00

CLEVELAND - That almost didn't suck.In a wild game, there were more than a few streaks kept alive. Let's count down from 14 -- a nice solid number and probably the ERA of many Diamondback relievers -- and fill in some spots if I can't find a streak or pertinent number in them.14 - The number of batters who reached base that didn't get a base hit (10 walks, 2 hit batsmen, 2 errors)13 - The number

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118951180607100822005-06-16T15:45:00.000-04:002005-06-16T15:46:20.610-04:00

... as I witness the epic struggle between the Diamondbacks and Indians in Cleveland Friday night.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118907108530353422005-06-16T03:24:00.000-04:002005-06-16T03:44:53.906-04:00

Twelve teams have at least 35 wins: White Sox, Cardinals, Orioles, Nationals, Twins, Angels, Red Sox, Padres, Rangers, Phillies, Cubs and Diamondbacks. Only eight teams make the playoffs, and although the season is only three-eights over, four teams can be pinpointed as teams that have the odds against them. The following stat, accurate as of June 15, will reveal them:Bullpen ERA:25. Rangers (

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118774212840379362005-06-14T13:45:00.000-04:002005-06-14T14:36:52.843-04:00

Since 2000, only one baseball player has recorded 1,000 hits in the American League. Who is it?a) Johnny Damon, Royals-Athletics-Red Sox b) Derek Jeter, Yankees c) Alex Rodriguez, Mariners-Rangers-Yankees d) Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners e) Miguel Tejada, Athletics-OriolesThe other four have at least 990 hits, so it's close. But this guy did it first with a hit on Monday night.But here's a few more

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118701153214259542005-06-13T18:01:00.000-04:002005-06-13T18:19:13.256-04:00

I got the idea from an episode of "Baseball Tonight" few years ago, who no doubt got it from the Pepsi Challenge. The idea is to dispel any premonitions you have of players who were once good but aren't performing this year. After all, Nomar Garciaparra leading all NL shortstop in voting, despite hitting just .157 with no homers in 51 at-bats, and has been injured since April. But the fans

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118629970753845102005-06-12T22:26:00.000-04:002005-06-12T22:32:50.756-04:00

The Yankees have the highest payroll and have a losing record and blah blah blah. Yeah, we know that.The Red Sox are the defending World Series champs, and kept most of their team intact. They're only 3 games above .500 (before Sunday's game), have a losing record in the division and have the third worst ERA in the American League (5.04, only better than Tampa and Kansas City).Fans are still kind

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118512192777706542005-06-11T13:47:00.000-04:002005-06-11T13:49:52.783-04:00

Ladies and gentlemen, the Expos are in first place.Wait ... (checks notes) I'm pleased to inform you they are no longer the Expos. They are the Nationals.Our nation's capital inherited a team that made the playoffs once in their 36-year history. They've never been to the World Series. They haven't had a winning record since 1996. The team saw many promising players leave their spacious Olympic

Sussnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118380490639179822005-06-10T01:03:00.000-04:002005-06-10T01:14:50.643-04:00

I don't need an excuse to post a picture of Jennie Finch, but after reading ESPN.com columnist Gene Wojciechowski's piece on his experience batting against the standout softball pitcher, I had to find a good one and show it for all to see.A slew of big league pitchers have struck out against the guy in exhibition at-bats: Albert Pujols, Mike Piazza, Richie Sexson, to name a few. Many of them

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118359743984105912005-06-09T19:02:00.000-04:002005-06-09T19:29:03.990-04:00

I know MLB held a draft for two reasons: The Diamondbacks had the first pick, reminding me they resembled a AAA team last year BGSU outfielder Nolan Reimold was drafted in the second round to the Orioles, reminding me I no longer go to college and have wasted space for over a month since graduation All painful memories aside, baseball is the only sport of the "Big Four" (MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL)

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118265235660398252005-06-08T16:58:00.000-04:002005-06-08T17:13:55.666-04:00

Urbina, the Tigers' closer, was traded to the Phillies along with utility infielder Ramon Martinez in exchange for Placido Polanco.Polanco is hitting .316 and rarely strikes out (9 K in 158 AB). He should get playing time ahead of current second baseman Omar Infante, who his only hitting .215. Infante can then play the utility infielder Martinez used to be.But the real loss is Urbina, although he

Sussnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118214169046487532005-06-08T02:00:00.000-04:002005-06-08T16:45:20.023-04:00

If you are desensitized by interleague games, you have to at least be mildly amused by American League pitchers when they go to a National League ballpark. That means they have to hit.Watching the tail end of the Tigers' pre-game show, I caught the Tigers' pitching coach Bob Cluck toss B. P. to the pitching staff.These guys never hit, and they're gonna have to. The NL pitchers know how to lay

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1118043364945044482005-06-06T02:30:00.000-04:002005-06-06T03:36:04.970-04:00

In the classic "well our hitting is bad so we can't blame the players," the four-runs-per-game Indians fired their hitting coach Eddie Murray. While the .240 average could be attributed to the Hall of Fame outfielder-turned-coach, one Web site disagrees.A grassroots movement in Cleveland, ShaveEricWedge.com, is trying to petition the Indians skipper to shave the 'stache off, which apparently has

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1117994348194836442005-06-05T13:49:00.000-04:002005-06-05T13:59:08.196-04:00

I told my college roommate that the Detroit Tigers play so well every time I see them on TV. This was due to them beating up on the Orioles 7-3 after four innings. Then we went bowling.While I was gone (e.g., not watching them), Baltimore came back and scored some runs.Some = Eleven.Baltimore went on to win, 14-7. (Box score opens in a new window)And I turn on the TV just as Dmitri Young steps to

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1117946848490063612005-06-05T00:27:00.000-04:002005-06-05T00:47:28.496-04:00

Steroid talk isn't something you will see a lot of here, mainly because the sport has so much more to offer and this blogger has so little knowledge of sports supplements. Having said that, this lengthy but factual and engaging column by ESPN.com's Jayson Stark details the reason that there are not as many home runs as last year, going down the list of theories and rejecting most of them.Home

Sussnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12886893.post-1117914695775118632005-06-04T15:48:00.000-04:002005-06-04T15:51:35.776-04:00

So many good players are on the shelf right now, Fox Sports' Kevin Kennedy compiled a roster of injured players. If that was a healthy team, many players would be in dire need of a change of undies.

Sussnoreply@blogger.com1