Over on my other blog, I post funny photos and stories on Friday and after seeing this photo today, I thought it was too good not to post.
I never knew Kris Medlen loved My Little Pony so much.
(Photo: AP)
Friday, August 28, 2009
Friday Funnies
Thud! Pow! Smack!
Braves 9, Padres 1
The Braves avoided the sweep by the Padres with an offensive outburst that spurred them to a 9-1 victory. Atlanta had six singles in their five run second inning which staked them to an early 5-0 lead. Adam LaRoche added a homerun in the sixth while Matt Diaz, Omar Infante and Reid Gorecki all produced RBI singles in the win.
Javier Vazquez, meanwhile, held San Diego scoreless over seven innings and even provided an RBI-single to help him break a personal two-game losing streak.
The Braves avoided the sweep by the Padres with an offensive outburst that spurred them to a 9-1 victory. Atlanta had six singles in their five run second inning which staked them to an early 5-0 lead. Adam LaRoche added a homerun in the sixth while Matt Diaz, Omar Infante and Reid Gorecki all produced RBI singles in the win.
Javier Vazquez, meanwhile, held San Diego scoreless over seven innings and even provided an RBI-single to help him break a personal two-game losing streak.
Quote of the Night: "All the teams that are losing are the right teams, which is good, so we'll keep trucking," said Braves manager Bobby Cox
News&Notes: The Braves recalled Buddy Carlyle and optioned Manny Ascosta to Triple-A Gwinnett…Jason Heyward, Freddie Freeman, Brandon Hicks and four other pitchers will all join the Arizona Fall League...Atlanta is just 4 ½ games out of the wild card and seven games out of the NL East lead as the take on the Phillies for a three game series this weekend.
(Photo: AP)
Huddy Back on Monday
Good news Braves fans, TIM HUDSON IS BACK!!! The Braves have decided to have Hudson skip his final rehab start Friday and instead will insert him into the starting rotation for Monday’s game against the Marlins. Ironically, it was in Miami where he stepped off the mound for the final time before undergoing Tommy John Surgery. 13 months later and Hudson is back to bolster the Braves’ rotation just in time for their final push towards the playoffs.
Kenshin Kawakami will move to the bullpen to make room for Hudson.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)
Friday, August 21, 2009
Musings from Citi Field
Braves 3, Mets 2
Well they finally did it; the Braves finally broke the streak of losing games that I attend that are not in the month of April. Yeah, it’s been 26 long years coming, so it was nice of them to create a new tradition at Citi Field. Of course Chipper Jones going 0-for-10 in the series is not a new tradition I’d like him to create, but at least Brian McCann got a homerun, right?
Citi Field is a massive upgrade from the orange and blue disaster that was Shea Stadium or what we now refer to as the parking lot. I’d suggest starting your adventure by going through the Jackie Robinson rotunda located at the Subway/LIRR exit. The rotunda pays homage to the Brooklyn Dodgers’ Ebbets Field and certainly has the biggest wow factor of the Stadium. In the rotunda fans can stop at the large team store or proceed up the escalator to the field level. From there I would head either left or right by passing the usual concession stands and head towards centerfield. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see three very large lines. Two of those lines are for the Shack Shake and - I won’t lie - will not move quickly, but trust me, you will not be disappointed by the Shack Shake burger (single or double) or the frozen custard shakes. If you’re in the mood for barbeque, Blue Smoke is right next door. And make sure to look up while you’re wasting away on line, directly above the Shake Shack/Blue Smoke concession stand is the New York skyline that was previously located above the scoreboard in centerfield at Shea Stadium, one of the few leftovers from that relic. There is also a video board on the backside of the scoreboard which shows replays of the game.
If you’re in the mood for French Fries, take a few extra minutes to head across the concourse to pick up the tasty treat at Box Frites. The fries aren’t remarkable (well not nearly as good as the crab fries at Citizen’s Bank Park in Philadelphia) but the dipping sauces are out of this world. (Last night I chose the ballpark mayo, which had a hint of honey mustard, and bacon varieties. Don’t be fooled by the sign, you can get an extra sauce without paying an extra fee.) After loading up on the goods (read: calories) you can head to your seats and enjoy the game.
The Stadium offers many interesting sections to view the game. My first trip to Citi I was seated in the left field upper deck, but I’ve also watched the game from the field level, right field seats, which were perfect. Under the Pepsi Porch, the seats were shaded and close to the field with very little restricted views. Another great spot is the Bridge Terrace seating which is located above the bullpen. These seats are actually tables from which fans can watch the game. There is also the Modell’s section located in right field that is literally at field level.
The Ballpark itself has a lot of modern amenities fans have grown accustomed to or could easily do so. Things like the three large video boards that show replays and game facts, TV monitors located in sections (like those under the Pepsi Porch) that do not have a view of the video boards, comfortable seats, large open concourses which blare the TV broadcast, differing concession stands on every level so you’re not stuck with just hot dogs and fries, various team stores and kids areas.
Once the game is over, make it a point to head out the bullpen exit. There you’ll see the original homerun apple and all of the Mets pennants. During the game, this is also a great place to watch the pitchers warm up.
Citi Field hasn’t surpassed Miller Park as my favorite place to catch a game, but it’s definitely worth a trip the next time you’re in New York.
Well they finally did it; the Braves finally broke the streak of losing games that I attend that are not in the month of April. Yeah, it’s been 26 long years coming, so it was nice of them to create a new tradition at Citi Field. Of course Chipper Jones going 0-for-10 in the series is not a new tradition I’d like him to create, but at least Brian McCann got a homerun, right?
Citi Field is a massive upgrade from the orange and blue disaster that was Shea Stadium or what we now refer to as the parking lot. I’d suggest starting your adventure by going through the Jackie Robinson rotunda located at the Subway/LIRR exit. The rotunda pays homage to the Brooklyn Dodgers’ Ebbets Field and certainly has the biggest wow factor of the Stadium. In the rotunda fans can stop at the large team store or proceed up the escalator to the field level. From there I would head either left or right by passing the usual concession stands and head towards centerfield. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see three very large lines. Two of those lines are for the Shack Shake and - I won’t lie - will not move quickly, but trust me, you will not be disappointed by the Shack Shake burger (single or double) or the frozen custard shakes. If you’re in the mood for barbeque, Blue Smoke is right next door. And make sure to look up while you’re wasting away on line, directly above the Shake Shack/Blue Smoke concession stand is the New York skyline that was previously located above the scoreboard in centerfield at Shea Stadium, one of the few leftovers from that relic. There is also a video board on the backside of the scoreboard which shows replays of the game.
If you’re in the mood for French Fries, take a few extra minutes to head across the concourse to pick up the tasty treat at Box Frites. The fries aren’t remarkable (well not nearly as good as the crab fries at Citizen’s Bank Park in Philadelphia) but the dipping sauces are out of this world. (Last night I chose the ballpark mayo, which had a hint of honey mustard, and bacon varieties. Don’t be fooled by the sign, you can get an extra sauce without paying an extra fee.) After loading up on the goods (read: calories) you can head to your seats and enjoy the game.
The Stadium offers many interesting sections to view the game. My first trip to Citi I was seated in the left field upper deck, but I’ve also watched the game from the field level, right field seats, which were perfect. Under the Pepsi Porch, the seats were shaded and close to the field with very little restricted views. Another great spot is the Bridge Terrace seating which is located above the bullpen. These seats are actually tables from which fans can watch the game. There is also the Modell’s section located in right field that is literally at field level.
The Ballpark itself has a lot of modern amenities fans have grown accustomed to or could easily do so. Things like the three large video boards that show replays and game facts, TV monitors located in sections (like those under the Pepsi Porch) that do not have a view of the video boards, comfortable seats, large open concourses which blare the TV broadcast, differing concession stands on every level so you’re not stuck with just hot dogs and fries, various team stores and kids areas.
Once the game is over, make it a point to head out the bullpen exit. There you’ll see the original homerun apple and all of the Mets pennants. During the game, this is also a great place to watch the pitchers warm up.
Citi Field hasn’t surpassed Miller Park as my favorite place to catch a game, but it’s definitely worth a trip the next time you’re in New York.
(Photos: PIMC)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Smoltz signs with St. Louis
John Smoltz has signed with the St. Louis Cardinals after a failed stint with the Red Sox where he went 2-5 with an ERA of 8.23 in just eight starts. The 42-year-old is scheduled to start on Sunday but could continue as either a starter or reliever with the team.
The Cards will pay a prorated $400,000 salary while Boston is still on the hook for $5.5 million.
The eight time All-Star and former Cy Young Award winner will be joined by former Braves teammates Mark DeRosa and Adam Wainwright.
Personally, I would have preferred him to retire, but if he feels he needs to give it one last go, at least he’s more decisive than Brett Favre.
(Photo: AP; source)
The Cards will pay a prorated $400,000 salary while Boston is still on the hook for $5.5 million.
The eight time All-Star and former Cy Young Award winner will be joined by former Braves teammates Mark DeRosa and Adam Wainwright.
Personally, I would have preferred him to retire, but if he feels he needs to give it one last go, at least he’s more decisive than Brett Favre.
(Photo: AP; source)
Braves Whack the Mets
Braves 15, Mets 2
After giving up eight runs in one inning on Tuesday night, the Braves bounced back with their own eight run inning in what became a 15-2 wallop. The second inning started out harmlessly enough when Brian McCann hit a single. That was followed by three consecutive singles by Adam LaRoche, Yunel Escobar and Matt Diaz – the latter scoring McCann and LaRoche giving Atlanta an early 2-0 lead. Just as the Braves allowed the Mets to extend their eight run forth with bad defense the night previously, the Mets and Bobby Parnell could have escaped the second giving up only three runs if not for a gaffe by Luis Castillo. The second baseman inexplicably failed to cover second base allowing Garrett Anderson to leg out a single and keep the inning alive. The Braves would score five more runs including three off of a Brian McCann homerun before all was said and done.
Adam LaRoche and Matt Diaz would add homeruns in the sixth inning and Reid Gorecki would record his first major league hit and RBI by the time the night was over.
News&Notes: Martin Prado is suffering from extertional headaches. Hopefully he’ll start to feel better soon…Good news, Tim Hudson is feeling fine after his latest rehab start…Apparently people in Flushing just don’t hate Chipper Jones and the Braves like they used to…Tommy Hanson is part of the future of a resurgent Braves pitching staff if you haven’t heard…Mike Hampton has a partially torn rotator cuff. Just wanted to point that out in case you needed a good laugh this afternoon.
Reminder: I am heading off to Citi Field tonight to catch the Mets and the Braves. Check back tomorrow for musings and Monday for photos.
(Photo: Getty Images)
After giving up eight runs in one inning on Tuesday night, the Braves bounced back with their own eight run inning in what became a 15-2 wallop. The second inning started out harmlessly enough when Brian McCann hit a single. That was followed by three consecutive singles by Adam LaRoche, Yunel Escobar and Matt Diaz – the latter scoring McCann and LaRoche giving Atlanta an early 2-0 lead. Just as the Braves allowed the Mets to extend their eight run forth with bad defense the night previously, the Mets and Bobby Parnell could have escaped the second giving up only three runs if not for a gaffe by Luis Castillo. The second baseman inexplicably failed to cover second base allowing Garrett Anderson to leg out a single and keep the inning alive. The Braves would score five more runs including three off of a Brian McCann homerun before all was said and done.
Adam LaRoche and Matt Diaz would add homeruns in the sixth inning and Reid Gorecki would record his first major league hit and RBI by the time the night was over.
News&Notes: Martin Prado is suffering from extertional headaches. Hopefully he’ll start to feel better soon…Good news, Tim Hudson is feeling fine after his latest rehab start…Apparently people in Flushing just don’t hate Chipper Jones and the Braves like they used to…Tommy Hanson is part of the future of a resurgent Braves pitching staff if you haven’t heard…Mike Hampton has a partially torn rotator cuff. Just wanted to point that out in case you needed a good laugh this afternoon.
Reminder: I am heading off to Citi Field tonight to catch the Mets and the Braves. Check back tomorrow for musings and Monday for photos.
(Photo: Getty Images)
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
If only it could have ended in the third
Mets 9, Braves 4
Or if only Bobby Cox could have taken out Lowe sooner, maybe then the Braves wouldn’t have suffered an embarrassing 9-4 loss to the Mets. New York set a franchise record by collecting 10 hits in what amounted to an eight run fourth inning that knocked out Braves starter Derek Lowe early. To put things in perspective, former Brave Gary Sheffield had two doubles in that one inning.
Atlanta had gotten off to a good start with homeruns by Matt Diaz and Adam LaRoche that gave them a 4-0 advantage. But Lowe was unable to hold onto the lead sending him to his worst start since joining the Braves.
Through the clouds there is always sunshine and a bright spot for Atlanta had to have been Kris Medlen who went two and a third innings without allowing a run while striking out five.
News&Notes: Martin Prado lasted only half an inning before leaving with a sudden headache. It looks like he's not getting any better and the 95 degree muggy humid weather in New York probably isn’t helping…The Braves trip to Citi Field is a homecoming for newly called up Reid Gorecki who is from Lynbrook, NY…Mets right fielder Jeff Francoeur caught up with his old teammates before Tuesday’s game.
Or if only Bobby Cox could have taken out Lowe sooner, maybe then the Braves wouldn’t have suffered an embarrassing 9-4 loss to the Mets. New York set a franchise record by collecting 10 hits in what amounted to an eight run fourth inning that knocked out Braves starter Derek Lowe early. To put things in perspective, former Brave Gary Sheffield had two doubles in that one inning.
Atlanta had gotten off to a good start with homeruns by Matt Diaz and Adam LaRoche that gave them a 4-0 advantage. But Lowe was unable to hold onto the lead sending him to his worst start since joining the Braves.
Through the clouds there is always sunshine and a bright spot for Atlanta had to have been Kris Medlen who went two and a third innings without allowing a run while striking out five.
News&Notes: Martin Prado lasted only half an inning before leaving with a sudden headache. It looks like he's not getting any better and the 95 degree muggy humid weather in New York probably isn’t helping…The Braves trip to Citi Field is a homecoming for newly called up Reid Gorecki who is from Lynbrook, NY…Mets right fielder Jeff Francoeur caught up with his old teammates before Tuesday’s game.
(Photo: AP)
Ryan Church is Still Angry
It’s rumored that Ryan Church and Manager Jerry Manuel did not have the best relationship while Church was with the Mets, but Tuesday’s verbal sparring just goes to show you, Ryan is not over it.
It began with a simple statement from Manuel regarding the difference between David Wright and Ryan Church’s concussions. Manuel said Wright’s injury was a “different animal,” which Church believed was a low blow targeting his toughness. Manuel later apologized saying he meant nothing ill of Ryan.
It’s not hard to see why Church would get upset after the way his health was handled last season. After suffering his second concussion in three months at the knee of Yunel Escobar the Mets allowed Church to continue playing instead of immediately placing him on the DL like they have done with David Wright. All you need to do is look at his pre- and post-concussion statistics to see that was not the right move.
“From the outside looking in, the smartest thing to do obviously was to go on [the DL]. But for me, I was trying to just get back and play. I mean, they were telling me if I would have went out there and got another one, my career would have been over. And that didn't really sink in. And it wasn't like anybody was telling me, no, don't do it, go on the DL,” Church said.
Manuel claims the reason the situation was handled poorly was because Church and the Mets were not communicating well. They guy was suffering from his second concussion in three months; I am surprised he knew his name.
"I would be trying not to throw up. Standing in the outfield, just spinning like no other. Just trying to take those deep breaths, like just trying to relax myself, don't get all panicky," Church said. "It went on and off the whole year, but mostly the bad stuff was when I first came back. It was way too soon."
Eventually the Mets placed Church on the DL and he appeared to suffer from post-concussion effects for the remainder of the season. Personally, I don’t think they needed to get constant status updates from Church to know that he should have been placed on the DL immediately after his second concussion. A med student or a really smart middle schooler taking biology could have told you that. They kept him in the lineup because he had a hot bat. But in the end, the Mets only shot themselves in the foot because Church was never able to regain his early swagger at the plate.
Now that Church is with the Braves, it appears the bad blood between he and the Mets continues to flow.
(Photo: Getty Images & AP; source)
It began with a simple statement from Manuel regarding the difference between David Wright and Ryan Church’s concussions. Manuel said Wright’s injury was a “different animal,” which Church believed was a low blow targeting his toughness. Manuel later apologized saying he meant nothing ill of Ryan.
It’s not hard to see why Church would get upset after the way his health was handled last season. After suffering his second concussion in three months at the knee of Yunel Escobar the Mets allowed Church to continue playing instead of immediately placing him on the DL like they have done with David Wright. All you need to do is look at his pre- and post-concussion statistics to see that was not the right move.
“From the outside looking in, the smartest thing to do obviously was to go on [the DL]. But for me, I was trying to just get back and play. I mean, they were telling me if I would have went out there and got another one, my career would have been over. And that didn't really sink in. And it wasn't like anybody was telling me, no, don't do it, go on the DL,” Church said.
Manuel claims the reason the situation was handled poorly was because Church and the Mets were not communicating well. They guy was suffering from his second concussion in three months; I am surprised he knew his name.
"I would be trying not to throw up. Standing in the outfield, just spinning like no other. Just trying to take those deep breaths, like just trying to relax myself, don't get all panicky," Church said. "It went on and off the whole year, but mostly the bad stuff was when I first came back. It was way too soon."
Eventually the Mets placed Church on the DL and he appeared to suffer from post-concussion effects for the remainder of the season. Personally, I don’t think they needed to get constant status updates from Church to know that he should have been placed on the DL immediately after his second concussion. A med student or a really smart middle schooler taking biology could have told you that. They kept him in the lineup because he had a hot bat. But in the end, the Mets only shot themselves in the foot because Church was never able to regain his early swagger at the plate.
Now that Church is with the Braves, it appears the bad blood between he and the Mets continues to flow.
(Photo: Getty Images & AP; source)
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Musings from Miller Park
Last week I took a trip to Milwaukee to catch a couple of games at Miller Park. What struck me most about the ballpark was not just the beauty, but also the functionality. Each concourse level is open with concession stands and mini team store outposts littered around. There are also a couple of kid’s areas to take the rugrats to when they start to get antsy. But of course the best part of the park is the retractable roof. Luckily the weather was absolutely perfect, so the roof was open, but even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the roof guarantees the game will be played.
This being a Braves blog, I would be crazy not to mention Milwaukee’s place in Braves history. The Bravos spent 13 seasons in Milwaukee (1953-1965) and won one World Series in 1957. Milwaukee is where the great Hank Aaron made his major league debut and also the same city where he would close out his Hall of Fame career. Warren Spahn spent part of his career in this Midwestern city, as well as Phil Niekro, Eddie Mathews and Red Schoendist.
The Brewers pay tribute to the Braves history with a Hank Aaron bronzed statue that is located outside of the homeplate entrance as well as a Braves wall (which had a visa booth in front of it, so the picture below isn’t that great.) In addition to the statue, the Brewers retired Aaron’s number, one of just five the Brewers have retired.
I highly recommend making a stop in Milwaukee to check out a game the next time the Braves are in town. And with its close proximity to Chicago (just 90 minutes away) you can do a mini road trip and also check out Wrigley Field and US Cellular Field.
This being a Braves blog, I would be crazy not to mention Milwaukee’s place in Braves history. The Bravos spent 13 seasons in Milwaukee (1953-1965) and won one World Series in 1957. Milwaukee is where the great Hank Aaron made his major league debut and also the same city where he would close out his Hall of Fame career. Warren Spahn spent part of his career in this Midwestern city, as well as Phil Niekro, Eddie Mathews and Red Schoendist.
The Brewers pay tribute to the Braves history with a Hank Aaron bronzed statue that is located outside of the homeplate entrance as well as a Braves wall (which had a visa booth in front of it, so the picture below isn’t that great.) In addition to the statue, the Brewers retired Aaron’s number, one of just five the Brewers have retired.
I highly recommend making a stop in Milwaukee to check out a game the next time the Braves are in town. And with its close proximity to Chicago (just 90 minutes away) you can do a mini road trip and also check out Wrigley Field and US Cellular Field.
(Photos: PIMC)
Six-Pack Summer
Braves 9, Diamondbacks 4
Atlanta dominated a make-up game with the Diamondbacks Monday, scoring six unearned runs in the third inning on their way to a 9-4 victory. After giving up a solo homerun to Garrett Anderson in the second inning, Arizona pitch Max Scherzer unloaded two hit batsman (Matt Diaz and Yunel Escobar), a bases loaded walk to Adam LaRoche and then a three run double to Ryan Church in the third. Sherzer lasted another two innings before getting the ax after giving up a two run homer to LaRoche. The start was a far cry from his May 16th start at Turner Field where he pitched six scoreless innings.
The day decidedly belonged to another young pitcher, the Braves Tommy Hanson, who picked up his third consecutive victory after going six innings, allowing two runs and striking out seven.
News&Notes: Martin Prado missed Monday’s game…Long Island native Reid Gorecki had a great Monday…Congrats to Jason Heyward who was named the Southern League’s player of the month.
Atlanta dominated a make-up game with the Diamondbacks Monday, scoring six unearned runs in the third inning on their way to a 9-4 victory. After giving up a solo homerun to Garrett Anderson in the second inning, Arizona pitch Max Scherzer unloaded two hit batsman (Matt Diaz and Yunel Escobar), a bases loaded walk to Adam LaRoche and then a three run double to Ryan Church in the third. Sherzer lasted another two innings before getting the ax after giving up a two run homer to LaRoche. The start was a far cry from his May 16th start at Turner Field where he pitched six scoreless innings.
The day decidedly belonged to another young pitcher, the Braves Tommy Hanson, who picked up his third consecutive victory after going six innings, allowing two runs and striking out seven.
News&Notes: Martin Prado missed Monday’s game…Long Island native Reid Gorecki had a great Monday…Congrats to Jason Heyward who was named the Southern League’s player of the month.
(Photo: AP)
Nate McLouth to the DL
The Braves have placed centerfielder Nate McLouth on the DL with a sore left hamstring. McLouth left Saturday’s game against the Phillies after re-injuring the hamstring that had kept him out for two days the week before.
Atlanta called up outfielder Reid Gorecki from Triple-A to fill the roster spot.
(Photo: AP; source)
Atlanta called up outfielder Reid Gorecki from Triple-A to fill the roster spot.
(Photo: AP; source)
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Braves riding high out of LA
Braves 8, Dodgers 2
The Braves capped off a successful series against the Dodgers with a blow out victory on Sunday. Javier Vazquez took the mound for the Bravos notching his fifth consecutive victory after pitching eight strong innings in which he allowed just one run while mowing down seven Dodger batters.
Vazquez’s lone hiccup came in the fourth when a Manny Ramirez check swing double kept the inning alive for LA. Casey Blake followed with a sacrifice fly that scored Andre Ethier but the inning ended after Ramirez was tagged out trying to score on a Matt Kemp fly. The Dodgers later attempted a rally in the ninth but could not duplicate Thursday’s late inning heroics.
Matt Diaz shined, putting Atlanta on the board with a solo shot before adding an RBI in the Braves five run ninth inning.
Vazquez is now 5-0 with an ERA of 2.59 in his last seven starts. During those outings the Braves remain undefeated.
Atlanta will have Monday off before starting a series with the red hot Nationals who are riding an eight game win streak.
News&Notes: Chipper Jones missed the final three games of the Dodgers series after injuring his oblique during batting practice on Friday. Jones hopes to start on Tuesday…Kelly Johnson’s more relaxed approach certainly seems to be paying off… Just because the Red Sox have decided to demote John Smoltz doesn’t mean there aren’t other teams interested in his services.
The Braves capped off a successful series against the Dodgers with a blow out victory on Sunday. Javier Vazquez took the mound for the Bravos notching his fifth consecutive victory after pitching eight strong innings in which he allowed just one run while mowing down seven Dodger batters.
Vazquez’s lone hiccup came in the fourth when a Manny Ramirez check swing double kept the inning alive for LA. Casey Blake followed with a sacrifice fly that scored Andre Ethier but the inning ended after Ramirez was tagged out trying to score on a Matt Kemp fly. The Dodgers later attempted a rally in the ninth but could not duplicate Thursday’s late inning heroics.
Matt Diaz shined, putting Atlanta on the board with a solo shot before adding an RBI in the Braves five run ninth inning.
Vazquez is now 5-0 with an ERA of 2.59 in his last seven starts. During those outings the Braves remain undefeated.
Atlanta will have Monday off before starting a series with the red hot Nationals who are riding an eight game win streak.
News&Notes: Chipper Jones missed the final three games of the Dodgers series after injuring his oblique during batting practice on Friday. Jones hopes to start on Tuesday…Kelly Johnson’s more relaxed approach certainly seems to be paying off… Just because the Red Sox have decided to demote John Smoltz doesn’t mean there aren’t other teams interested in his services.
(Photo: Matt Diaz)
Friday, August 7, 2009
Ugh!
Dodgers 5, Braves 4
Atlanta closer Rafael Soriano gave up a three run homer to Andre Ethier, giving LA a walk-off victory that left the Braves shaking their heads.
The Braves jumped off to a quick two run lead in the second with two RBI singles by Matt Diaz and Adam LaRoche. Atlanta added runs in the fourth and the seventh to regain their two run lead before Soriano’s third blown save of the season.
Ethier’s walk-off dinger ruined a solid start by Derek Lowe, who was hoping to get his second victory against his former team in a week. Lowe went six and a third innings, allowing two runs while striking out two.
Atlanta closer Rafael Soriano gave up a three run homer to Andre Ethier, giving LA a walk-off victory that left the Braves shaking their heads.
The Braves jumped off to a quick two run lead in the second with two RBI singles by Matt Diaz and Adam LaRoche. Atlanta added runs in the fourth and the seventh to regain their two run lead before Soriano’s third blown save of the season.
Ethier’s walk-off dinger ruined a solid start by Derek Lowe, who was hoping to get his second victory against his former team in a week. Lowe went six and a third innings, allowing two runs while striking out two.
News&Notes: Atlanta and first round draft pick Mike Minor have agreed to a deal that will give Minor a $2.42 million bonus…Former Brave Casey Kotchman hit a two run homer in his first start with the Red Sox. He also extended his errorless streak to 154 games.
(Photo: AP)
Musings from Yankee Stadium
Yankees 13, Red Sox 6
It’s not often on this blog that I focus on a game that does not include the Braves, but since this game featured a starting pitcher named John Smoltz, I thought it worthy for noting. (Sorry in advance for the very long post)
Yesterday afternoon I swear I had butterflies churning in my stomach. I could not wait for the clock on my computer to say 5:00 so I could rush out of my office and catch the four up to Yankee Stadium. I was so excited I didn’t even care that I was so squashed onto the four train that I felt like one of those clowns in a Volkswagen. Tonight was the night I was going to see John Smoltz pitch. And even though it would be in a Red Sox uniform I didn’t care. What better way to watch Smoltz pitch into the sunset than against my most hated team, the New York Yankees. The win would be that much sweeter. But like many things in life, that perfect game was not meant to be.
As I made my way out of that crowded subway car, I rushed down the stairs onto River Avenue and made my way down to the bleacher entrance to get to my seat. Knowing that the bleachers begin at the top of the visitor’s bullpen, I positioned myself at the edge of section 238, a spot that gave me a great angle to the pitching mound below. I got to the Stadium so early, somewhere around 5:45 that the Red Sox seemed to have just begun their batting practice. The sun shone down upon me and I began to fell like what Edward Cullen looks in Twilight, sweaty and disgusting, completing regretting my fashion choice. I didn’t care. I didn’t care that the two boys flanked on either side of me would continuously scream “Throw me the ball” whenever a ball would get remotely close to a Red Sox player. I just didn’t care. I came here to watch John Smoltz for possibly the last time and nothing could ruin that.
The Yankees starting pitcher Joba Chamberlain descended upon right centerfield and began his warm-up routine, jogging then stretching than tossing. Cheers rained upon him as gleeful Yankee fans watched “the future” in front of their very eyes.
As Joba began getting ready, Victor Martinez, the Red Sox catcher and George Kottaras, the back-up catcher jogged out to center. The pair stretched and then began tossing, but there was still no sign of Smoltz. I waited patiently, trying not to laugh too hard at the unintelligent jeers being tossed Martinez’s way. Finally, Smoltz appeared. He calmly walked from the dugout to centerfield clearly in his own world. He barely even spoke to his teammates when he reached them and walked into the bullpen and then back onto the field ignoring any sounds around him. He started tossing, increasing the distance between himself and the bullpen catcher with every toss. It was about this time that the guys sitting in the seats I was standing in front of came and I moved back to my own seat 22 rows away.
As I stood and watched Smoltz warm-up, a weird feeling emerged. I had this feeling that Smoltz was going to be ok. I took that to mean he was going to have a solid start, maybe five innings giving up only a run or two. Not a feeling like today he’s going to pitch a no-hitter, but one that made me feel like tonight was going to be a good night.
Boxer Muhammad Ali was escorted via golf cart around the outfield of Yankee Stadium before stopping at home plate to be honored by the team. The moment reminded me of a scene just one year earlier at the Old Yankee Stadium when George Steinbrenner was carted around prior to the start of the All-Star game. Fans clapped, cheered and snapped photos. It was a cool moment to witness and unknowingly, the highlight of the night’s festivities.
Then it was time for the game to begin. Smoltz started off strong retiring three of the first four batters. His only misstep, a walk to Mark Teixeira, was quickly erased after striking out Alex Rodriguez looking. I couldn’t help but produce a quick fist pump after the out. Things would not continue to run so smoothly for Smoltz.
Smoltz began to labor in the second inning, surrendering a single to Jorge Posada and a walk to Robinson Cano. He escaped any damage after Nick Swisher singled to center. Posada, running from second on contact, inexplicably decided not to slide and was thrown out at home. Melky Cabrera followed with a line out to second and Smoltz walked off the mound without allowing an earned run.
Dustin Pedroia led off the Red Sox third with a solo homer off of Chamberlain staking Smoltz to a slim one run lead. Then the wheels started to fall off in the bottom of the inning. Johnny Damon tied things at one with a solo homerun and it began to look like Smoltz did not have his stuff. Something that became painfully obvious as the start progressed.
The Red Sox battled back in the top half of the fourth when Casey Kotchman, recently acquired from the Braves, hit a two run homerun scoring Mike Lowell. It would be the last time the Red Sox would lead the game. From that moment on, the Yankees would own Red Sox pitching and John Smotlz would not even be able to register more than one out in the Yankees 8 run fourth inning.
Smoltz would later call this start the worst of his career and as an eye witness, I wouldn’t argue. The night was one I didn’t expect. Not that I am entirely surprised that he gave up a couple of runs, but more that I wasn’t expecting to come to this painful conclusion, it’s time for Smoltzie to hang up his cleats. I am not saying this because of last night’s outing but because of the collection of outings he’s produced this year. I hate that he just doesn’t have it anymore, whatever it is. I hate seeing someone who I have idolized since I was eight not be the player I remember. A player that has battled back from Tommy John surgery; who has successfully transitioned from a starter to a closer to a starter again like no other player before him. Seeing him in a Red Sox uniform wasn’t uncomfortable, disappointing or odd. It was something I had adjusted to. Seeing him play so poorly was uncomfortable, disappointing and odd. It’s a moment that almost every player will get to, but one, as a fan, you never want to see.
Even with that written, I am glad that I saw it for myself. It allows me to finish this chapter and move onto the next in my fanhood, even if I still hold out hope that he can find a successful role with the Red Sox this season so that he can end his Hall of Fame career on a high note, whether that is as a reliever or a spot starter. He has earned that Hollywood ending, and hopefully, he’ll get it.
(Photos: PIMC)
It’s not often on this blog that I focus on a game that does not include the Braves, but since this game featured a starting pitcher named John Smoltz, I thought it worthy for noting. (Sorry in advance for the very long post)
Yesterday afternoon I swear I had butterflies churning in my stomach. I could not wait for the clock on my computer to say 5:00 so I could rush out of my office and catch the four up to Yankee Stadium. I was so excited I didn’t even care that I was so squashed onto the four train that I felt like one of those clowns in a Volkswagen. Tonight was the night I was going to see John Smoltz pitch. And even though it would be in a Red Sox uniform I didn’t care. What better way to watch Smoltz pitch into the sunset than against my most hated team, the New York Yankees. The win would be that much sweeter. But like many things in life, that perfect game was not meant to be.
As I made my way out of that crowded subway car, I rushed down the stairs onto River Avenue and made my way down to the bleacher entrance to get to my seat. Knowing that the bleachers begin at the top of the visitor’s bullpen, I positioned myself at the edge of section 238, a spot that gave me a great angle to the pitching mound below. I got to the Stadium so early, somewhere around 5:45 that the Red Sox seemed to have just begun their batting practice. The sun shone down upon me and I began to fell like what Edward Cullen looks in Twilight, sweaty and disgusting, completing regretting my fashion choice. I didn’t care. I didn’t care that the two boys flanked on either side of me would continuously scream “Throw me the ball” whenever a ball would get remotely close to a Red Sox player. I just didn’t care. I came here to watch John Smoltz for possibly the last time and nothing could ruin that.
The Yankees starting pitcher Joba Chamberlain descended upon right centerfield and began his warm-up routine, jogging then stretching than tossing. Cheers rained upon him as gleeful Yankee fans watched “the future” in front of their very eyes.
As Joba began getting ready, Victor Martinez, the Red Sox catcher and George Kottaras, the back-up catcher jogged out to center. The pair stretched and then began tossing, but there was still no sign of Smoltz. I waited patiently, trying not to laugh too hard at the unintelligent jeers being tossed Martinez’s way. Finally, Smoltz appeared. He calmly walked from the dugout to centerfield clearly in his own world. He barely even spoke to his teammates when he reached them and walked into the bullpen and then back onto the field ignoring any sounds around him. He started tossing, increasing the distance between himself and the bullpen catcher with every toss. It was about this time that the guys sitting in the seats I was standing in front of came and I moved back to my own seat 22 rows away.
As I stood and watched Smoltz warm-up, a weird feeling emerged. I had this feeling that Smoltz was going to be ok. I took that to mean he was going to have a solid start, maybe five innings giving up only a run or two. Not a feeling like today he’s going to pitch a no-hitter, but one that made me feel like tonight was going to be a good night.
Boxer Muhammad Ali was escorted via golf cart around the outfield of Yankee Stadium before stopping at home plate to be honored by the team. The moment reminded me of a scene just one year earlier at the Old Yankee Stadium when George Steinbrenner was carted around prior to the start of the All-Star game. Fans clapped, cheered and snapped photos. It was a cool moment to witness and unknowingly, the highlight of the night’s festivities.
Then it was time for the game to begin. Smoltz started off strong retiring three of the first four batters. His only misstep, a walk to Mark Teixeira, was quickly erased after striking out Alex Rodriguez looking. I couldn’t help but produce a quick fist pump after the out. Things would not continue to run so smoothly for Smoltz.
Smoltz began to labor in the second inning, surrendering a single to Jorge Posada and a walk to Robinson Cano. He escaped any damage after Nick Swisher singled to center. Posada, running from second on contact, inexplicably decided not to slide and was thrown out at home. Melky Cabrera followed with a line out to second and Smoltz walked off the mound without allowing an earned run.
Dustin Pedroia led off the Red Sox third with a solo homer off of Chamberlain staking Smoltz to a slim one run lead. Then the wheels started to fall off in the bottom of the inning. Johnny Damon tied things at one with a solo homerun and it began to look like Smoltz did not have his stuff. Something that became painfully obvious as the start progressed.
The Red Sox battled back in the top half of the fourth when Casey Kotchman, recently acquired from the Braves, hit a two run homerun scoring Mike Lowell. It would be the last time the Red Sox would lead the game. From that moment on, the Yankees would own Red Sox pitching and John Smotlz would not even be able to register more than one out in the Yankees 8 run fourth inning.
Smoltz would later call this start the worst of his career and as an eye witness, I wouldn’t argue. The night was one I didn’t expect. Not that I am entirely surprised that he gave up a couple of runs, but more that I wasn’t expecting to come to this painful conclusion, it’s time for Smoltzie to hang up his cleats. I am not saying this because of last night’s outing but because of the collection of outings he’s produced this year. I hate that he just doesn’t have it anymore, whatever it is. I hate seeing someone who I have idolized since I was eight not be the player I remember. A player that has battled back from Tommy John surgery; who has successfully transitioned from a starter to a closer to a starter again like no other player before him. Seeing him in a Red Sox uniform wasn’t uncomfortable, disappointing or odd. It was something I had adjusted to. Seeing him play so poorly was uncomfortable, disappointing and odd. It’s a moment that almost every player will get to, but one, as a fan, you never want to see.
Even with that written, I am glad that I saw it for myself. It allows me to finish this chapter and move onto the next in my fanhood, even if I still hold out hope that he can find a successful role with the Red Sox this season so that he can end his Hall of Fame career on a high note, whether that is as a reliever or a spot starter. He has earned that Hollywood ending, and hopefully, he’ll get it.
(Photos: PIMC)
UPDATE: The Red Sox have designated John Smoltz for assignment.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Braves take two out of three from San Diego
Braves 6, Padres, 2
Tommy Hanson may not have been his usual dominant self, but his teammates were more than willing to help him out, completing four double plays on defense and adding 14 singles on offense in the Braves 6-2 win over the Padres.
Hanson allowed two runs – a two run dinger by Will Veneable in the sixth – while striking out five for his sixth victory this season. The win was that much sweeter considering he did it in front of about 100 friends and family at PETCO Park that made the trip from his hometown of Redlands, CA.
Brian McCann had a two run single in Atlanta’s three run fourth.
News&Notes: Matt Diaz grounded into three double plays and added a homerun in the Braves 9-2 romp over San Diego on Tuesday…Ryan Church returned to the lineup for the first time in six games on Wednesday. Church had been suffering from a sore elbow…The Braves settled a dispute with Hartford Life Insurance Co. over Mike Hampton’s 2008 contract…Derek Lowe will pitch in LA for the first time in a Braves uniform on Thursday…Adam LaRoche has been off to a hot start since coming over to the Braves…Speaking of LaRoche, he’s featuered in this cbssports.com article…Buster Olney's Blog features Jason Heyward this week.(Warning you need to be an ESPN insider to read the entire post.)
Reminder: I am heading to the Bronx tonight to catch the Yankees and Red Sox. John Smoltz is scheduled to take the mound for the Sox so I’ll add photos and musings tomorrow!
Tommy Hanson may not have been his usual dominant self, but his teammates were more than willing to help him out, completing four double plays on defense and adding 14 singles on offense in the Braves 6-2 win over the Padres.
Hanson allowed two runs – a two run dinger by Will Veneable in the sixth – while striking out five for his sixth victory this season. The win was that much sweeter considering he did it in front of about 100 friends and family at PETCO Park that made the trip from his hometown of Redlands, CA.
Brian McCann had a two run single in Atlanta’s three run fourth.
News&Notes: Matt Diaz grounded into three double plays and added a homerun in the Braves 9-2 romp over San Diego on Tuesday…Ryan Church returned to the lineup for the first time in six games on Wednesday. Church had been suffering from a sore elbow…The Braves settled a dispute with Hartford Life Insurance Co. over Mike Hampton’s 2008 contract…Derek Lowe will pitch in LA for the first time in a Braves uniform on Thursday…Adam LaRoche has been off to a hot start since coming over to the Braves…Speaking of LaRoche, he’s featuered in this cbssports.com article…Buster Olney's Blog features Jason Heyward this week.(Warning you need to be an ESPN insider to read the entire post.)
Reminder: I am heading to the Bronx tonight to catch the Yankees and Red Sox. John Smoltz is scheduled to take the mound for the Sox so I’ll add photos and musings tomorrow!
(Photo: AP)
Monday, August 3, 2009
Dodgers thump the Braves
Dodgers 9, Braves 1
The Dodgers bats were uncorked as they got a season high 19 hits in their 9-1 defeat of the Braves. Jair Jurrjens allowed a season high 10 hits to the Dodgers in just five innings of work, but managed to keep them in check until LA broke out with four runs in the fifth inning, punctuated by a three run homer by Matt Kemp. Kemp added a two run single in the eighth.
It wasn’t all roses for the Dodgers however; Chad Billingsley left the game after the fifth inning with a cramp in his right hamstring. Not willing to chance anything, Manager Joe Torre removed his starter and replaced him with Scott Elbert who allowed the Braves only run in the eighth.
News&Notes: Yunel Escobar’s status for Monday’s game remains in doubt…Omar Infante is getting closer to returning to the Braves…Tim Hudson’s comeback suffered a minor set back, after he was forced to miss his scheduled start on Friday with a mild groin strain…The Rays have signed free agent pitcher Jeff Bennett. Bennett was granted his release from the Braves on Thursday.
The Dodgers bats were uncorked as they got a season high 19 hits in their 9-1 defeat of the Braves. Jair Jurrjens allowed a season high 10 hits to the Dodgers in just five innings of work, but managed to keep them in check until LA broke out with four runs in the fifth inning, punctuated by a three run homer by Matt Kemp. Kemp added a two run single in the eighth.
It wasn’t all roses for the Dodgers however; Chad Billingsley left the game after the fifth inning with a cramp in his right hamstring. Not willing to chance anything, Manager Joe Torre removed his starter and replaced him with Scott Elbert who allowed the Braves only run in the eighth.
News&Notes: Yunel Escobar’s status for Monday’s game remains in doubt…Omar Infante is getting closer to returning to the Braves…Tim Hudson’s comeback suffered a minor set back, after he was forced to miss his scheduled start on Friday with a mild groin strain…The Rays have signed free agent pitcher Jeff Bennett. Bennett was granted his release from the Braves on Thursday.
(Photo: Getty Images)
LaRoche back with Atlanta
The Braves acquired first baseman Adam LaRoche from the Red Sox on Friday in exchange for first baseman Casey Kotchman. The move was intended to add additional thump into the lineup.
Of course nothing is ever easy when Adam LaRoche is involved. LaRoche was informed of his trade on Friday in Baltimore where the Red Sox were scheduled to play the Orioles. From Baltimore he had planned to take a flight to Boston to collect some personal items and then fly from Boston to Atlanta on Saturday morning. But with the bad weather in the northeast, Adam’s flight from Baltimore was cancelled, thus delaying his trip back to Boston. LaRoche eventually landed in Atlanta with about an hour to spare before being inserted into the lineup.
The move itself is an interesting one. I really liked Kotchman’s defensive skills at first base and felt he was an adequate hitter. However, LaRoche adds some desperately needed power to the lineup.
(Photo: AP; source)
Of course nothing is ever easy when Adam LaRoche is involved. LaRoche was informed of his trade on Friday in Baltimore where the Red Sox were scheduled to play the Orioles. From Baltimore he had planned to take a flight to Boston to collect some personal items and then fly from Boston to Atlanta on Saturday morning. But with the bad weather in the northeast, Adam’s flight from Baltimore was cancelled, thus delaying his trip back to Boston. LaRoche eventually landed in Atlanta with about an hour to spare before being inserted into the lineup.
The move itself is an interesting one. I really liked Kotchman’s defensive skills at first base and felt he was an adequate hitter. However, LaRoche adds some desperately needed power to the lineup.
(Photo: AP; source)
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