Major League Baseball 2009

04/05/2009 8:06 pm
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The Brewers look to repeat as a playoff team, and the Twins look to make it back after missing the playoffs last year. The Rays will try to defend their American League Pennant, and the Pirates look to end their long streak of losing seasons. Baseball as a whole looks to continue to rebound from yet another steroids scandal, and America rejoices as baseball comes back for yet another season.

In other words:

Play Ball!

hoochpage.JPGSarah - 4635 Posts
04/05/2009 @ 08:14:13 PM
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What's up with the Brewers not playing until Tuesday? They already need a break?
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
04/07/2009 @ 08:31:34 AM
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I watched the Mariners-Twins game last night on MLBTV. Go Griffey! He's put on some weight over the years.
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
04/07/2009 @ 09:02:16 AM
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carltwins.jpg
[Click to Enlarge]


Apparently Sarah was seizing while taking this picture.
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
04/07/2009 @ 02:06:10 PM
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Yeah, that'd be me. looking good, right?
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
04/07/2009 @ 04:05:52 PM
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So who was in the yellow and pink?* Whomever it was in the pink must have changed toward the end of the game. Did she get one of those Metrodome shirts lots of people had on? If so, how much were they?

Edit*: I assume one of them was the Mrs. (pink?), or were you 2 (or 3) timing her?
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Jeremy perfected this at 04/07/2009 4:17:57 pm
matt.jpgMatt - Ombudsman
04/07/2009 @ 08:15:55 PM
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The Twins suck.
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - So's your face
04/07/2009 @ 08:26:12 PM
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2nd that.
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thumbnailCAW1I0O3.gifMatt - Washington Bureau Chief
04/07/2009 @ 10:11:44 PM
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Just when I thought they couldn't get any suckier, they go and do something like this... and totally redeem themselves!
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - Cube Phenomenoligist
04/07/2009 @ 10:56:40 PM
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Was it on Charter?
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
04/08/2009 @ 06:52:49 AM
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They don't sick. But Delmon Young does. He should honestly be sent down to AAA to get his power back. Span, Gomez and Cuddy look fine in the OF for now. They are screwed at catcher if Redmond goes on the DL. Morales was awful in the field and at the plate. I would consider bringing up Wilson Ramos, but I doubt they will.
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thumbnailCAW1I0O3.gifMatt - 3905 Posts
04/08/2009 @ 06:10:54 PM
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No, they switched to the Brewers FSN.
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sarah.jpgSarah - 4635 Posts
04/08/2009 @ 07:03:55 PM
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I went to bed after the 8th, found out they won at work in the morning and it totally ruined my day! Why didn't I stay up?
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - So's your face
04/08/2009 @ 08:23:49 PM
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"Twins suck"
Matt 4/8/2009 couch
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scott.jpgScott - No, I did not change your screen saver settings
04/09/2009 @ 09:48:07 AM
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Gallardo became the first pitcher EVER to homer off of Randy Johnson. He hit a 3-run bomb yesterday. Gallardo also was a stud on the mound too.

the Brewers pitching staff has 4 RBI in two games already.
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Scott messed with this at 04/09/2009 9:48:37 am
face.bmpCarlos44ec - Since 1980!
04/09/2009 @ 11:42:32 AM
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EVER? Wow, the Broke Unit is.... broken
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - 4635 Posts
04/10/2009 @ 07:37:56 PM
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Crede's homerun.... sweet
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scott.jpgScott - Ma'am, can you make sure your computer is turned on?
04/11/2009 @ 06:34:01 AM
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The Brewers Radio team answered my email!!! I submitted a question on Sports Bubbler, and my email was the first one of the season that Cory and Bob answered! What was my brilliant question? Here it is:
Cory,

I'm a lifelong Brewer fan, transplanted recently to Florida. I got a dog last october and I named it after my boyhood hero, Bob Uecker. I was wondering if you or Bob know of anyone else who has named their dog after Mr. Uecker.


They read it, said my first and last name, and then talked about it for about 10 minutes. Apparently Robin Yount has/had a dog named Uecker. Anyway, my dog must now be the most famous dog in Wisconsin!!! Oh the excitement.
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Scott screwed with this at 04/11/2009 6:34:30 am
newalex.jpgAlex - I don't need to get steady I know just how I feel
04/12/2009 @ 10:44:07 PM
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Nifty! I just listened to them for the first time on the drive home tonight. Maybe I'm just tired from a long day and weekend but that Cory guy sounded a lot like a younger Jim Powell.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
04/13/2009 @ 07:29:59 AM
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Alex Wrote - Yesterday @ 11:44:07 PM
...that Cory guy sounded a lot like a younger Jim Powell.

I sort of thought the same thing. Hopefully he turns out to be good.
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flower .jpgPackOne - There's music to play. Places to go. People to see.
04/13/2009 @ 10:42:15 PM
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Hopefully the Brewers turn out to be good. Good god.
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
04/14/2009 @ 06:52:20 AM
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Scott Wrote - 12/31/1969 @ 06:00:00 PM
Cory, I'm a lifelong Brewer fan, transplanted recently to Florida. I got a dog last october and I named it after my boyhood hero, Bob Uecker. I was wondering if you or Bob know of anyone else who has named their dog after Mr. Uecker.


I have also named my dog after a baseball figure, his name is Kirby, after Kirby Puckett.
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face.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
04/14/2009 @ 07:51:56 AM
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And which Reggie was the other one named after?
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jon.jpgJon - 3406 Posts
04/19/2009 @ 01:21:45 AM
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My Ode to Jason Kubel:

OK, so I don't really have a poem or anything. But, can you believe how clutch he is? And I'm not even sure I believe in "clutch." Plus he's from South Dakota, which makes him even cooler.

Just a few numbers for you.

(5) That's the number of career grand slams Kubel has.

(45) The number of career home runs he has, meaning 1 of every 9 HRs is a grand slam. I wonder if that's close to a record. I couldn't find anything on that but now I know Lou Gehrig has the most all time grand slams with 23. Interestingly enough, the wikipedia page for baseball grand slams actually mentions Kubel, though it was for his other memorable slam that won the game in extras and was a crazy baseball night that Matt and I still talk about.

(19) That's how many minutes into Sportscenter the Twins highlights came, despite the fact that Kubel's grand slam, go ahead cycle in a crazy game was the first story on their own bottom line section titled "The Lead."
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Jon edited this 2 times, last at 04/19/2009 1:23:46 am
hoochpage.JPGSarah - 4635 Posts
04/21/2009 @ 09:47:51 PM
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Double header tomorrow for the Twins and Red Sox because of a rain out. It boggles the mind that the Twins aren't going to have a retractable roof. Tsk Tsk.
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jon.jpgJon - 1 bajillion posts
04/22/2009 @ 04:19:35 AM
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Sarah Wrote - Yesterday @ 09:47:51 PM
Double header tomorrow for the Twins and Red Sox because of a rain out. It boggles the mind that the Twins aren't going to have a retractable roof. Tsk Tsk.


I know! Now every time it rains in Boston, the Twins can't play a home game.
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto - 209 Posts
04/22/2009 @ 06:38:42 AM
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A retractable roof would have been way too much for the Minnesota taxpayers. I don't like them anyway, it takes away from the charm of the ball park and gives the stadium a indoor feel even with the roof open. Plus I like doubleheaders, I think they should schedule them more often, get the season done quicker, that way maybe they wouldn't have to play the World Series during a winter storm.
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - Super Chocolate Bear
04/22/2009 @ 08:26:18 AM
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Yeah, that's what pretty much everything I've read on Miller Park says. Most people think it's a cool park, but ultimately that it pretty much always feels that you're indoors. It's like playing in a tin can, you don't see "outdoors" unless you look straight up. I'm looking forward to Target Field, but not the prospect what what all it implies. From Eau Claire it's about a 4 hour round trip once you get parked/get un-parked. There's a good portion of the year up here where it could be 40 degrees or 90 degrees on any given day, and can rain on a moments notice.
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face.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
04/22/2009 @ 08:26:24 AM
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All I care about is that it will be easier to get home opener tickets or late-season tickets if you're tough enough to withstand the elements
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
04/22/2009 @ 09:35:34 AM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 09:26:18 AM
Most people think it's a cool park, but ultimately that it pretty much always feels that you're indoors. It's like playing in a tin can, you don't see "outdoors" unless you look straight up.


I disagree with this statement. Even with the roof closed, they often will open up the oufield panels. So when the roof is opened it turns into probably the most open "domed" stadium in the league.
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2887.gifAlex - Ignorance is bliss to those uneducated
04/22/2009 @ 01:25:18 PM
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I'm not a big fan of the big city anyway, so who cares if you can see the parking lot or some industrial buildings or skyscrapers or highways. Big whoop-dee-doo. If it's nice out they can still open the roof and pop the side panels and if you're sitting in the outfield bleachers you get the sun and a breeze. I think the benefits far outweigh the loss of "an outdoor stadium", and probably half (at least) the ballparks that don't have roofs can't really be considered outdoor anyway. I remember playing high school baseball in the snow and I can guarantee that the players and the fans would have much preferred a covered stadium.
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto - 209 Posts
04/23/2009 @ 07:27:03 AM
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Since baseball is played in the summer, I think there is only a handful of teams who have indoor parks and I believe Milwaukee is the only one to do it because of cold weather. The others like Houston and Arizona have done it due to the heat. My point is the summer in the upper midwest has some pretty good weather and if the Twins have to suffer through some rain/cold/snow in April and maybe october then so be it. I don't think anyone will miss the dome too much.
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scott.jpgScott - Get Up! Get outta here! Gone!
04/24/2009 @ 07:52:24 AM
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For the third time in 6 years, Dave Bush took a no-hitter into the 8th inning only to lose the bid in that inning. He still won the game though. Taking 2 of 3 from the World Champs on the road might be what the Brewers need to turn things around.
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
04/24/2009 @ 08:18:43 AM
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its a looooong season, but I value your optimism.
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2887.gifAlex - I don't need to get steady I know just how I feel
04/24/2009 @ 01:14:06 PM
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Carlos44ec Wrote - Today @ 08:18:43 AM
its a looooong season, but I value your optimism.


I'll sell you mine for $100.
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - 4635 Posts
04/26/2009 @ 09:32:56 PM
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Did anyone else see that steal by Ellsbury? It was weird, Pettitte and Posada didn't even see it happening and then Ellsbury kind of tripped but still made it. Just had to sit back and go what- Why is there a guy flying into home with the pitch right there?!?!
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
04/27/2009 @ 08:50:37 AM
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Stealing home probably is about the coolest thing in sports.
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sarah.jpgSarah - So's your face
04/28/2009 @ 09:42:29 PM
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Screw Joe Nathan
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
04/29/2009 @ 07:26:21 AM
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The Brewers have beat the pirates 14 straight times. Apparently, that is the longest active streak for any team over another.
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face.bmpCarlos44ec - You had me at "Hello"
04/29/2009 @ 08:20:30 AM
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is that his first BS of the year? (I mean Joe Nathan, not Scott emoticon)
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
04/29/2009 @ 04:45:59 PM
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Yeah Carl. Hey I will be in Minneapolis next weekend, isn't that where you live? Anyways I will be there friday through sunday.
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - ...and Bob's your Uncle!
04/29/2009 @ 06:11:56 PM
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weekend of the 9th and 10th? yeah, I'll be around, getting married that weekend. You talking the 2nd and 3rd? Yeah, still here.

Specifically, I live in Minnetonka, but yes, that's pretty much MPLS
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Carlos44ec perfected this at 04/29/2009 6:14:04 pm
scott.jpgScott - Resident Tech Support
04/29/2009 @ 06:37:22 PM
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Gallardo goes 8 innings, strikes out 11, gives up 2 hits, 0 runs, and scored the Brewers only run with a homer to left. Nice outing, I'd say.
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto - 209 Posts
04/29/2009 @ 07:00:10 PM
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Carl- yeah the 8th through the 10th. You getting married then? Well if you have time to meet up let me know .
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
04/30/2009 @ 12:55:23 PM
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We've got the wedding on Saturday; you can come to that, if you'd like. For the dinner portion we have numbers set, but since Micah's not bringing his date, you could take her spot. Otherwise the dance portion should be after 730 or so.

If you come as Micah's date you would have to put out, I'm sure... let me know, give me a call - number is in code below (stupid internet)

6_ _ (Dick Butkus)
7 _ _(Lynn Swan)
0 _ (Bill Russel) _ _ (Kirby!, Walter Payton)

hey, that was fun! If all else fails, call Micah or Jeremy, they's got the digits.
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Carlos44ec screwed with this 3 times, last at 04/30/2009 1:01:08 pm
jeremy.jpgJeremy - 1.21 Gigawatts!?!?
04/30/2009 @ 01:12:42 PM
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Gas, Grass, or Ass: No one sits-next-to-Micah-under-the-guise-of-being-his-plus-one for free.
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - A Vote for me is a Vote against Terrorism! ...or atleast just wasted.
04/30/2009 @ 01:52:18 PM
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Oh, and Joe? Meagen says you're welcome to come, but warns me that you might leave the door open when you leave at 4 am...
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reign_of_fire_150.jpgMicah - 584 Posts
04/30/2009 @ 02:53:42 PM
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You better not think of leaving my bed at 4am. I will want to cuddle.
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto - 209 Posts
04/30/2009 @ 04:56:48 PM
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I would never leave you Micah......but seeing how I was not invited to this wedding in the first place, I do have other plans on saturday, being my brother graduating from law school, yeah I know right. I don't know the exact times of everything but maybe we can work something out.
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jthompto edited this at 04/30/2009 4:58:00 pm
vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
05/01/2009 @ 03:03:19 PM
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I didn't send an invite because I haven't seen you more than twice in ten years! Didn't think you'd make the the trip from Arizona (that's where you live, right?). Stop by the party afterwards or something. It should be cool.

And Brian is graduating law school? Does he have a job lined up? Should have given him that five bucks, Micah.
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - How do you use these things?
05/01/2009 @ 03:22:24 PM
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Doesn't Joe live in St. Louis (and has for multiple years)? I thought he wanted to go see the Twins/Cardinals games with us. Maybe I'm wrong.... (yea right, like that ever happens)
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - So's your face
05/01/2009 @ 07:23:01 PM
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1 swing = 1 homerun, welcome back Joe!!!
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face.bmpCarlos44ec - You had me at "Hello"
05/01/2009 @ 08:09:01 PM
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I'm not claiming credit, but I called that HR
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - Knuckle Sammich
05/01/2009 @ 08:09:32 PM
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Sarah Wrote - Today @ 03:22:24 PM
Doesn't Joe live in St. Louis (and has for multiple years)? I thought he wanted to go see the Twins/Cardinals games with us. Maybe I'm wrong.... (yea right, like that ever happens)


you're right, he is in STL now. I forgot- dang!
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
05/03/2009 @ 07:13:58 PM
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your right Carl I am in STL for just over a year now. Was in AZ before this though. I'll call ya this weekend as soon as I figure out that complex phone number code. By the ay does anyone still want to come to see the twins in STL?
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sarah.jpgSarah - 4635 Posts
05/06/2009 @ 06:27:25 PM
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I still want to go, I think it'd be a fun vacation
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scott.jpgScott - Ma'am, can you make sure your computer is turned on?
05/08/2009 @ 10:00:40 PM
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Don't rule the Brewers out of any game. They have 10 come-from -behind wins this season. Braun just hit a go-ahead two-run homer in the 8th inning tonight. (that's a lot of hyphenated words in a 2 sentence span)
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/08/2009 @ 10:09:13 PM
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Also, on a funny note, the current poll on SportsBubbler reads as follows:

How annoying are Cubs fans?
Option A: Really freakin' annoying

That's it, that's the only option. Hillarious!
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Scott messed with this at 05/08/2009 10:09:40 pm
newalex.jpgAlex - 3619 Posts
05/13/2009 @ 11:39:45 PM
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Hoffman is looking like a pretty good signing at this point.
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scott.jpgScott - If you aren't enough without it, you'll never be enough with it.
05/14/2009 @ 08:46:55 AM
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Alex Wrote - Today @ 12:39:45 AM
Hoffman is looking like a pretty good signing at this point.


And Mike Cameron is looking like a pretty good keep, too.
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2887.gifAlex - 3619 Posts
05/14/2009 @ 09:51:41 AM
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I don't disagree, but I did just pick up Cabrera over Cameron for FB. Although I imagine Cam's defense is better and it was ridiculous that the Yankees wanted the Brewers to pay part of his contract in the trade.
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scott.jpgScott - On your mark...get set...Terrible!
05/14/2009 @ 09:04:25 PM
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Back to Hoffman:
8 save opps, 8 saves, 0.00 ERA, 9K, 0 BB 0.33 WHIP, .103 BAA. In terms of save %, ERA, and WHIP, no closer is better this year, and Hoffman is apparently at the top of his game.
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - How do you use these things?
05/14/2009 @ 09:20:52 PM
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But how is that exciting? I like when the closer gives up a homerun with his first pitch!
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reign_of_fire.jpgMicah - I didn't make that! It fell out of your hair that way!
05/15/2009 @ 12:33:54 AM
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Scott Wrote - Yesterday @ 10:04:25 PM
Back to Hoffman:
8 save opps, 8 saves, 0.00 ERA, 9K, 0 BB 0.33 WHIP, .103 BAA. In terms of save %, ERA, and WHIP, no closer is better this year, and Hoffman is apparently at the top of his game.


Frank Francisco is 9 for 9 with 0.00 ERA, 13K, but you got him on WHIP as he's only 0.75. He's also on my fantasy team, which is the only reason I know this.

The Twins blogs seem to be awash in support for the defensive aspects of the Span-Gomez-Cuddyer outfield. I probably agree as its frustrating to hear about 5 runs being given up after Kubel couldn't get to a fly ball.
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
05/15/2009 @ 06:45:12 AM
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I didn't see this fly ball that Kubel couldn't catch but apparantly it would have saved 5 runs, wow. At least he backed it up with a 3-4 day. I think Delmon Young is just as bad out there, it seems like he does a 360 everytime a ball is hit to him. If Gomez continues to have more productive at bats he should get some more starts.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/15/2009 @ 07:18:31 AM
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Micah Wrote - Today @ 01:33:54 AM
Scott Wrote - Yesterday @ 10:04:25 PM
Back to Hoffman: 8 save opps, 8 saves, 0.00 ERA, 9K, 0 BB 0.33 WHIP, .103 BAA. In terms of save %, ERA, and WHIP, no closer is better this year, and Hoffman is apparently at the top of his game.
Frank Francisco is 9 for 9 with 0.00 ERA, 13K, but you got him on WHIP as he's only 0.75. He's also on my fantasy team, which is the only reason I know this.


For the record, I didn't say Hoffman was the best, I just said that no one is better. 100% saves and 0.00 ERA is impossible to top; it can only be equaled.

And the crazy thing to think about regarding his 0.33 WHIP is this: he is averaging 1 base runner every 3 outings. That's crazy.
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Scott screwed with this at 05/15/2009 7:19:21 am
fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/15/2009 @ 08:51:04 AM
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Well, it can't be that impossible to top, seeing as Micah just showed you a guy that topped it. 1 for 1 and 20 for 20 wouldn't be equally impressive just because they both equal 100%.

Heath Bell is 8 for 8, has a win, and a 0 era, with 3.3 more innings pitched.

Two guys are 10 for 10.

Frank Francisco's 0.00 ERA is over 5.2 more innings, which is 58% more than Hoffman's 9.
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reign_of_fire.jpgMicah - 584 Posts
05/15/2009 @ 08:58:02 AM
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Hoffman does get some bonus points for being 74 years old.
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reign_of_fire.jpgMicah - 584 Posts
05/15/2009 @ 09:00:08 AM
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jthompto Wrote - Today @ 07:45:12 AM
I didn't see this fly ball that Kubel couldn't catch but apparantly it would have saved 5 runs, wow. At least he backed it up with a 3-4 day. I think Delmon Young is just as bad out there, it seems like he does a 360 everytime a ball is hit to him. If Gomez continues to have more productive at bats he should get some more starts.


I think it would have been the third out, and Span most likely would have gotten to it. I agree that Young and Kubel are both pretty bad. There is a Young 360 comment from me as well somewhere on this site.
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/15/2009 @ 09:03:32 AM
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Young doesn't screw up a lot, he just looks so awkward that it doesn't instill you with a lot of confidence. There has been a couple recent balls hit Kubel's way that Sarah and my immediate reaction to was "Span/Young would have had that."
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sarah.jpgSarah - 4635 Posts
05/15/2009 @ 09:44:16 AM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 09:03:32 AM
Young doesn't screw up a lot, he just looks so awkward that it doesn't instill you with a lot of confidence. There has been a couple recent balls hit Kubel's way that Sarah and my immediate reaction to was "Span/Young would have had that."


Either of them would've had that ball that was hit yesterday to Kubes. But, he's still clutch, which is a lot of fun to watch!

Plus, even though that hit allowed 5 runs, the Twins still came back to win 6-5, so maybe it was worth it for the extra drama.
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Sarah edited this at 05/15/2009 9:44:53 am
scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/15/2009 @ 10:40:55 AM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 09:51:04 AM
Well, it can't be that impossible to top, seeing as Micah just showed you a guy that topped it. 1 for 1 and 20 for 20 wouldn't be equally impressive just because they both equal 100%. Heath Bell is 8 for 8, has a win, and a 0 era, with 3.3 more innings pitched. Two guys are 10 for 10. Frank Francisco's 0.00 ERA is over 5.2 more innings, which is 58% more than Hoffman's 9.


Splitting freakin' hairs, and busting chops I might add. 9 for 9 is the same as 10 for 10. You can't top perfection, you can only equal it. And I think Hoffman's innings qualifies for the "not a 1 inning guy getting something amazing" category.

In fact, I'm going to pretend that you didn't use the example of comparing a 1 for 1 guy with a 20 for 20 guy as if that's what I was doing, because you are smarter than that.
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Scott perfected this at 05/15/2009 10:47:40 am
hoochpage.JPGSarah - 4635 Posts
05/15/2009 @ 10:45:29 AM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 10:40:55 AM
9 for 9 is the same as 10 for 10.


What math classes have you had? You better hope he goes 10 for 10.
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Sarah perfected this at 05/15/2009 10:46:43 am
scott.jpgScott - You're going to have to call your hardware guy. It's not a software issue.
05/15/2009 @ 12:17:04 PM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 11:40:55 AM
Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 09:51:04 AM
Well, it can't be that impossible to top, seeing as Micah just showed you a guy that topped it. 1 for 1 and 20 for 20 wouldn't be equally impressive just because they both equal 100%. Heath Bell is 8 for 8, has a win, and a 0 era, with 3.3 more innings pitched. Two guys are 10 for 10. Frank Francisco's 0.00 ERA is over 5.2 more innings, which is 58% more than Hoffman's 9.
Splitting freakin' hairs, and busting chops I might add. 9 for 9 is the same as 10 for 10. You can't top perfection, you can only equal it. And I think Hoffman's innings qualifies for the "not a 1 inning guy getting something amazing" category. In fact, I'm going to pretend that you didn't use the example of comparing a 1 for 1 guy with a 20 for 20 guy as if that's what I was doing, because you are smarter than that.


Just to close this up, my point for posting this was to confirm that the Hoffman pick-up was a good one, in that he could not be doing better than he is already doing. 100% saves, 0.00era. He cannot be performing any better than he already is. He can indeed achieve more saves as the season progresses, but so far, he cannot top what he has already done. He can only match his perfection.
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jon.jpgJon - many posts
05/16/2009 @ 04:19:13 AM
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Jeremy Wrote - Yesterday @ 09:03:32 AM
Young doesn't screw up a lot, he just looks so awkward that it doesn't instill you with a lot of confidence. There has been a couple recent balls hit Kubel's way that Sarah and my immediate reaction to was "Span/Young would have had that."


Well we had our best defensive setup on Friday and gave up an inside the park homerun, so I guess all bets are off. (Did Span think he was going to get a clay court bounce off that grass?) Defense is the new black, but I can't help but wonder if Gomez needs to establish himself solidly above the mendoza line before retaining an everyday spot. There's no perfect solution to the outfield because there are weaknesses with all the combinations. I think for now I'm fine with the late trend of having Gomez the odd man out with Kubel firmly at DH (except for at the All-Star Game) and Young being pulled late for Gomez's defense. That way Gomez can get some plate appearances too. (Anecdotally, I feel like he's been walking more lately, which would be a good trend. OK, I checked, he's walked 3 times in the last four games. That's encouraging. If he can start walking he'd be almost comparable to DY offensively anyway. Now I'm talking myself back into Gomez apparently?)

As for the move I'd most like to see? Brendan Harris has earned a starting spot in my mind at this point. And I'm talking about with everyone healthy. I haven't written off Tolbert, it's way too early for that, but I feel like Harris had already been doing well and then Tolbert jumped the line almost. It's good to get ABs, they don't want to just call him up to sit right away, but maybe from here Tolbert can be the reserve and start a game a series while Harris is the main guy for a while.

In other Twins thoughts, I think Joe Mauer could make an MVP run if he stays healthy. Way too early to talk about? Of course it is, but I'm not expecting him to hit .500 with 40 HRs or anything. But he's already a great avg guy with good obp and defense, now with the power surge, we're maybe looking at the start of a really great season. That paragraph sounded lame, but I'm excited to see what could happen.
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Jon messed with this 2 times, last at 05/16/2009 4:23:06 am
IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
05/16/2009 @ 12:44:29 PM
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Kubel is back in left today while Mauer gets the DH spot. We will see how he does out there, but I don't think you can take his bat out of the lineup unless a left handed pitcher is on the mound.

Gomez seems to thrive in the defensive replacement/pinch runner role. He only gets one AB a game and it seems that he makes it worthwhile. He may have to start more though as Young will be gone for a week visiting his sick mother.
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sarah.jpgSarah - How do you use these things?
05/17/2009 @ 01:49:45 PM
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I think the best outfield for the Twins right now is Span in right, Gomez in center, and Young in left. I don't know why, but I've lost all confidence in Cuddyer, he doesn't have the speed we need in right field and when batting, doesn't do a lot. When he does get on base, he just seems to do dumb things. Gomez can only go up and I think has learned a lot while sitting on the bench. I feel like we're stifling him. He has much so energy that the club needs, but he has to stay in the dugout all the time. We need that spark from him out in the field, both offensively and defensively.
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - 4635 Posts
05/17/2009 @ 03:28:48 PM
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Mauer just sealed the deal for MVP, the rest of you can go home!
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thumbnailCAW1I0O3.gifMatt - Ombudsman
05/17/2009 @ 04:07:47 PM
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Sarah Wrote - Today @ 01:49:45 PM
I think the best outfield for the Twins right now is Span in right, Gomez in center, and Young in left. I don't know why, but I've lost all confidence in Cuddyer, he doesn't have the speed we need in right field and when batting, doesn't do a lot. When he does get on base, he just seems to do dumb things. Gomez can only go up and I think has learned a lot while sitting on the bench. I feel like we're stifling him. He has much so energy that the club needs, but he has to stay in the dugout all the time. We need that spark from him out in the field, both offensively and defensively.


Delmon Young has sucked this season. He doesn't walk and he doesn't hit for any power. The outfield should be Span, Gomez, Cuddyer.
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scott.jpgScott - Resident Tech Support
05/17/2009 @ 04:57:01 PM
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This will someday end up in a book about odd baseball trivia. The Tampa Bay Rays filled out their lineup card incorrectly, listing two players at thirdbase and no one as the DH. Ben Zobrist played 3rd in the top of the first and Evan Longoria sat, intending to be the DH. Because both were listed as third basemen and no one was listed as the DH, and since Longoria sat in the top of the first, the Rays lost their DH, and their pitcher had to bat in the 3rd spot in the lineup, where Longoria was penciled in. The pitcher, Andy Sonnanstine, went 0-2 before hitting an RBI double in the 4th.

Personally, I always knew it was possible for a pitcher to have to bat in the American League if the team had to replace their DH, but I've never seen it happen. When I was listening to the radio when this happened, I got really excited, as I was witnessing a little bit of odd baseball history. Part of my excitement was simply knowing that this was possible, as I assume way more than half of baseball fans probably didn't know it was possible for an American League team to lose the DH.
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scott.jpgScott - On your mark...get set...Terrible!
05/17/2009 @ 05:03:21 PM
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In other news, the Brewers have won 5 straight, just took the first two games of a 3 game series vs St. Louis, and own the 3rd best record in baseball in what is currently the 2nd best division in baseball (record wise), in which they have a 1.5 game lead.
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Scott edited this at 05/17/2009 5:06:15 pm
jon.jpgJon - 3406 Posts
05/18/2009 @ 01:57:04 AM
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scott.jpgScott - If you aren't enough without it, you'll never be enough with it.
05/18/2009 @ 07:23:23 AM
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Argh! I don't have speakers at work! I have to wait all day to hear this one.
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2887.gifAlex - You've got to trust your instinct, and let go of regret
05/18/2009 @ 05:50:35 PM
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Weeks done for season

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4176200

Poopy! Good thing Counsell re-signed.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/18/2009 @ 06:01:36 PM
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Alex Wrote - Today @ 06:50:35 PM
Weeks done for season http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4176200 Poopy! Good thing Counsell re-signed.


That's sad for many reasons. One, Weeks was having a breakout, all-star-like season. Two, the Brewers don't have many options. They have a guy, Hernan Iribarren, batting .311 in AAA they could call up. Counsel is really the only other guy; he is a solid fielder and so far has been hitting the ball very well. McGehee is also available, but I suppose there is a reason why we haven't seen him play much this year. I saw that Alcides Escobar, their top prospect at SS, is going to start getting time at 2nd, in the event of another injury.
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newalex.jpgAlex - 3619 Posts
05/18/2009 @ 09:29:23 PM
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They already called up Gamel too, so maybe he will get some starts at 3rd and Hall will play some 2nd.

I was watching 24 and not the game but apparently Gamel started tonight in place of Hall and has a home run already. Weeks still wasn't very good defensively anyway, so I think the biggest worry is finding a new leadoff hitter. Counsell is there tonight but he is 0-4 and doesn't have the speed you like to see at the top of the lineup. I think they might have to give Hart a try.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/19/2009 @ 06:39:38 AM
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Alex Wrote - Yesterday @ 10:29:23 PM
Weeks still wasn't very good defensively anyway, so I think the biggest worry is finding a new leadoff hitter.


Weeks was the BEST defensive 2nd baseman in the league so far this season.

Alex Wrote - Yesterday @ 10:29:23 PM
Counsell is there tonight but he is 0-4 and doesn't have the speed you like to see at the top of the lineup. I think they might have to give Hart a try.


Speed doesn't matter for the Brewers leadoff guy, because they don't steal bases anyway. Bill Schroeder said the exact same thing last night.
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Scott edited this at 05/19/2009 6:41:23 am
2887.gifAlex - 3619 Posts
05/19/2009 @ 01:11:03 PM
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Well, maybe they should steal more. Plus, speed isn't just about steals, it's about taking an extra base on a hit too. And I enjoy the TV announcers well enough, but I doubt anyone has ever accused Bill Schroeder of being a baseball genius.

Scott Wrote - Today @ 06:39:38 AM
Weeks was the BEST defensive 2nd baseman in the league so far this season.

Based on what? ESPN stats have him with the most errors and worst fielding% http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/stats/fielding?groupId=8&season=2009&seasonType=2&split=80&sortColumn=fieldingPct
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/19/2009 @ 01:32:52 PM
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I won't get into it, I don't necessarily think those numbers are really that meaningful when everyone is pretty much so close. But whatever, I'll retract my statement. But you cannot deny that his defense is much improved from years past.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/19/2009 @ 01:45:18 PM
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Alex Wrote - Today @ 02:11:03 PM
Well, maybe they should steal more. Plus, speed isn't just about steals, it's about taking an extra base on a hit too. And I enjoy the TV announcers well enough, but I doubt anyone has ever accused Bill Schroeder of being a baseball genius.
Scott Wrote - Today @ 07:39:38 AM
Weeks was the BEST defensive 2nd baseman in the league so far this season.
Based on what? ESPN stats have him with the most errors and worst fielding% http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/stats/fielding?groupId=8&season=2009&seasonType=2&split=80&sortColumn=fieldingPct


And while I agree that Bill Schroeder isn't very inciteful, I don't know if Weeks' speed at the top of the lineup has necessarily been that big of an asset; but maybe it is. Anways, I highly doubt that Craig Counsel is the permanent answer to their hole in the lead-off spot.
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Scott edited this at 05/19/2009 1:45:47 pm
jeremy.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/19/2009 @ 02:33:48 PM
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On facebook FSN has a couple "debates" going where your comments might make it on the air during the Twins/Brewers series. The two baseball related ones are "Who is a better 1st baseman: Fielder or Morneau, why?" and "Who is a better hitter: Joe Mauer or Ryan Braun? Why?" Really FSN? That's your debate? Though I'm sure Scott would disagree, this is sort of like, "Who's a better person: Bono or Hitler*?"

The former (and potential 2 time) MVP, whos better at fielding, and mutli-time batting champ, who's currently batting .417, in a pure batting debate? The only nod you could concede the brewers is homeruns, but as it turns out Fielder just barely edges out Morneau in HR/season, and Mauer is 2 behind Braun this season, despite playing in less than half the games. I mean, don't get me wrong, Braun and Fielder would be a significant upgrade on most teams, but if you took a poll of 100 people on which pair you'd rather have on your team it would be 97-3, but only if you polled Scott, and Prince and Ryan's moms.

*Edit: And yes, I don't mean in a "it would be a short, pretty lame debate" sense, I'm actually calling the Brewers Hitler.
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Jeremy messed with this 2 times, last at 05/19/2009 2:38:51 pm
scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/19/2009 @ 03:06:44 PM
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don't put words in my mouth
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matt.jpgMatt - 3905 Posts
05/19/2009 @ 03:15:25 PM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 02:33:48 PM
On facebook FSN has a couple "debates" going where your comments might make it on the air during the Twins/Brewers series. The two baseball related ones are "Who is a better 1st baseman: Fielder or Morneau, why?" and "Who is a better hitter: Joe Mauer or Ryan Braun? Why?" Really FSN? That's your debate? Though I'm sure Scott would disagree, this is sort of like, "Who's a better person: Bono or Hitler*?"

The former (and potential 2 time) MVP, whos better at fielding, and mutli-time batting champ, who's currently batting .417, in a pure batting debate? The only nod you could concede the brewers is homeruns, but as it turns out Fielder just barely edges out Morneau in HR/season, and Mauer is 2 behind Braun this season, despite playing in less than half the games. I mean, don't get me wrong, Braun and Fielder would be a significant upgrade on most teams, but if you took a poll of 100 people on which pair you'd rather have on your team it would be 97-3, but only if you polled Scott, and Prince and Ryan's moms.

*Edit: And yes, I don't mean in a "it would be a short, pretty lame debate" sense, I'm actually calling the Brewers Hitler.



While I would probably go with the two Twins, I think the arguments are actually closer than you make them out to be (of course, a lot depends on how you interpret the questions).
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
05/19/2009 @ 05:02:42 PM
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Speaking of the Twins, Perkins is now on the DL and could be possibly facing a demotion. Sean Henn a lefty reliever has been called up. Which leads me to believe R.A. Dickey will start in Perkins spot? Otherwise they could send Henn right back down and bring up one of the starters like Mulvey or Swarzak.
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2887.gifAlex - I don't need to get steady I know just how I feel
05/19/2009 @ 05:08:09 PM
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Sam Perkins pitches for the Twins? No wonder they are under .500!
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sarah.jpgSarah - How do you use these things?
05/19/2009 @ 05:09:12 PM
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jthompto Wrote - Today @ 05:02:42 PM
Speaking of the Twins, Perkins is now on the DL and could be possibly facing a demotion. Sean Henn a lefty reliever has been called up. Which leads me to believe R.A. Dickey will start in Perkins spot? Otherwise they could send Henn right back down and bring up one of the starters like Mulvey or Swarzak.


How horrible was that 2/3 inning by Perkins? Good lord. What is he on the DL for? Embarrassment? And the Twins still almost won that game. That's beyond frustrating, losing 4 games to the Yankees by 5 runs total. They need to take that out on the White Sox and Brewers for sure.

What about that Morillo guy? I liked him a lot.

Mauer and Morneau vs Braun and Fielder?

That's not even close.
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scott.jpgScott - You're going to have to call your hardware guy. It's not a software issue.
05/19/2009 @ 09:54:38 PM
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25-14 vs 18-20? I'll take that anyday.
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
05/20/2009 @ 06:39:58 AM
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Yep, losing 5 straight will tend to hurt your record, the Twins should have just won 7 straight instead then they could have a good record like the Brewers.
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - No one's gay for Moleman
05/20/2009 @ 09:07:41 AM
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Yeah, if only talking about records was even a little tiny bit relevant to what we were talking about.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/20/2009 @ 12:57:47 PM
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I'll leave batting average out of my argument, since obviously that's not in question. Besides, what really matters is run production. Runs Produced is a good stat here (runs + RBI - HR). Adding up braun and fielder and then Mauer and Morneau, here's what I came up with:


Braun/Fielder
66 RBI, 52 R, 17 HR = 101 runs produced

Mauer/Morneau
51 RBI, 44 R, 19 HR = 76 runs produced

Then, because Mauer took half the season off so far, I calculated runs produced per game played
Bruan/Fielder = 2.66 RP/g
Mauer/Morneau = 2.67RP/g

How's that for a close race? In this case, there might be bonus points for the duo that has played pretty much every game this season.
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/20/2009 @ 01:29:02 PM
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Well, if you have to boil the argument down to one half season's worth of cherry picked numbers just to prove it's close (when the argument wasn't really about combining the combos)... emoticon

As a pure hitter few people compare to Mauer, it's really not a fair comparison. You could make a decent case for this not even being a matter of stats, but Mauer's OBP is .403, Braun's is .362. That's probably the best indicator of who's a "better hitter," but I guess that's somewhat open to interpretation.

As for the Morneau/Fielder comparison, you also have to factor in fielding, and Fielder commits a good 50% more errors every year, admittedly though, this one is closer.
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Jeremy perfected this 2 times, last at 05/20/2009 1:30:12 pm
scott.jpgScott - You're going to have to call your hardware guy. It's not a software issue.
05/20/2009 @ 01:56:40 PM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 02:29:02 PM
Well, if you have to boil the argument down to one half season's worth of cherry picked numbers just to prove it's close (when the argument wasn't really about combining the combos*)


Well, what helps a team out more, batting average? or runs? And, we only have half a years worth of stats to pull from anyway. Unless we are talking careers here. I didn't go that far, but I guess I could.

Besides, there's no such thing as cherry picking baseball stats. The whole point of stats in baseball is to make them say whatever you want them to say.

*and for the record, I didn't change the verbage in my quoting of Jeremy; that's actually how it came out when I hit the quote button.
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Scott messed with this 3 times, last at 05/20/2009 3:07:30 pm
jeremy.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/20/2009 @ 03:11:23 PM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 01:56:40 PM
Well, what helps a team out more, batting average? or runs?


Is that the question at hand? Me thinks not.
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scott.jpgScott - On your mark...get set...Terrible!
05/20/2009 @ 04:25:41 PM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 04:11:23 PM
Scott Wrote - Today @ 02:56:40 PM
Well, what helps a team out more, batting average? or runs?
Is that the question at hand? Me thinks not.


I know, I stated that I was leaving BA out of it, for arguments sake. In other words, I changed the question subtly to make it work better for my conclusion.
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - You had me at "Hello"
05/20/2009 @ 05:18:00 PM
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I liked your numbers and the way you stated your argument, Scott, but I do think you're biased in awarding a bonus for a duo that's played "pretty much every game".

Keep the math pure, folks!
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Carlos44ec messed with this at 05/20/2009 5:18:11 pm
newalex.jpgAlex - I don't need to get steady I know just how I feel
05/20/2009 @ 07:03:51 PM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 01:29:02 PM
As for the Morneau/Fielder comparison, you also have to factor in fielding, and Fielder commits a good 50% more errors every year, admittedly though, this one is closer.


According to fangraphs.com, Morneau is clearly better at fielding. And hitting wise they seem pretty much even, so I think you'd have to say Morneau is better overall.

http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=4613&position=1B
http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=1737&position=1B

Edit: The WAR value at the bottom I think is their all-encompassing value stat. Morneau's value was higher than Fielder's in 08 and also so far in 09, but Fielder's monster year in 07 slightly beat Morneau's 06. If we sum up 06-09 Morneau still wins, 12 to 9.9
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Alex screwed with this at 05/20/2009 7:40:16 pm
2887.gifAlex - 3619 Posts
05/20/2009 @ 07:33:35 PM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 01:29:02 PM
As a pure hitter few people compare to Mauer, it's really not a fair comparison. You could make a decent case for this not even being a matter of stats, but Mauer's OBP is .403, Braun's is .362. That's probably the best indicator of who's a "better hitter," but I guess that's somewhat open to interpretation.


Lots of fangraph stats that could apply to "better hitter". If you go by wOBA they were almost tied last year and Mauer has the lead this year. But if you look at their Batting Value, which is based on wOBA but is park adjusted, Mauer was .6 better in 08 but Braun has a 1.0 lead this year. Plus, Mauer's 07 value was not that good and even his season best 35 in 06 falls short of Braun's 37.6 in 07.

Also, the 2 projections they have are both projecting Braun to end up with the better wOBA this year.

http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=3410&position=3B/OF
http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=1857&position=C
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/20/2009 @ 07:47:33 PM
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Oh, well if projected wOBA doesn't tell the tale, what does? emoticon
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jon.jpgJon - 3406 Posts
05/21/2009 @ 05:08:43 AM
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I think it is close-ish. Though, the fact that they narrowed it down to hitting in the mauer braun debate in some ways obscures the real issue being that Mauer is the better player overall. I know they probably did it to avoid apples-oranges arguments, but also, by not mentioning defense, it takes away a Mauer strength and a Braun weakness. So narrowing it down to hitting in the first place is pseudo-cherry picking. (That's right, the picking of pseudo-cherries, not psuedo-cherry-picking) Obviously though it's not as bad as asking who the better outfielder is. (Though I'd still take Mauer. He's also the better quarterback and hunkier.)

Still, just debating hitting, Mauer might be making the deathblow this year anyway, seeing as he seems to be adding a power-hitter facet to his already impressive hitting.
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scott.jpgScott - On your mark...get set...Terrible!
05/21/2009 @ 06:20:14 AM
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Jon Wrote - Today @ 06:08:43 AM
I know they probably did it to avoid apples-oranges arguments, but also, by not mentioning defense, it takes away a Mauer strength and a Braun weakness.


Yeah, 0 errors from Braun since 2007; he's a real liability out there in left.

I know he struggled mightily at third base his rookie year, which is why they moved him to the outfield. But since then, he has been solid, and this year he has been putting together a pretty impressive highlight reel.
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Scott perfected this at 05/21/2009 6:33:55 am
jon.jpgJon - 3406 Posts
05/21/2009 @ 06:41:34 AM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 06:20:14 AM
Jon Wrote - Today @ 05:08:43 AM
I know they probably did it to avoid apples-oranges arguments, but also, by not mentioning defense, it takes away a Mauer strength and a Braun weakness.


Yeah, 0 errors from Braun since 2007; he's a real liability out there in left.


SINCE 2007? But not including that year? So last year plus two months?

The year 2007 featured a major league-leading 26 errors from him at his old position, 3B. Looking at some numbers other than errors, I'll admit I was wrong in the sense that it appears he had a good year in LF last year, but at best he's neutral for his career now. We'll see what he does from now on.

edit: OK, now that you edited your comment mine looks stupid.
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Jon messed with this 3 times, last at 05/21/2009 6:44:24 am
reign_of_fire.jpgMicah - 584 Posts
05/21/2009 @ 08:25:55 AM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 07:20:14 AM
Jon Wrote - Today @ 06:08:43 AM
I know they probably did it to avoid apples-oranges arguments, but also, by not mentioning defense, it takes away a Mauer strength and a Braun weakness.


Yeah, 0 errors from Braun since 2007; he's a real liability out there in left.

I know he struggled mightily at third base his rookie year, which is why they moved him to the outfield. But since then, he has been solid, and this year he has been putting together a pretty impressive highlight reel.


Total outfield defense has way more to do with range and almost nothing to do with errors. Delmon Young and Carlos Gomez both had 8 errors in the outfield last year, but I dont think there's any debate over who is the better fielder. I don't think there's much debate between Gomez and Braun as well, with their 8 to 0 errors.
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
05/21/2009 @ 11:37:44 AM
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How did Gomez get 8 errors in the OF last year? What constitutes in error when your playing OF? I would think it would be pretty hard to make an error unless you dropped a fly ball, let a single roll by you or made a horrible throw into the infield that allowed a runner to move up. With that said, I believe it is much easier to make an error in the infield or at catcher than playing left field.
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2887.gifAlex - Refactor Mercilessly
05/21/2009 @ 01:52:49 PM
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I'll concede to the argument that if you're talking overall value Mauer's position (and performance at said position) gives him a big edge. 07-09 WAR value is 10.5 for Mauer to Braun's 8.6. But I take issue with calling defense a weakness for Braun. Yes, he was not very good at 3rd. But he's really turned into an at least average LF. Well, I guess only an almost average LF according to the numbers. His UZR is slightly negative (as opposed to his -35.5 per 150 games at 3rd). Looks like he has an average arm and a little below average range.
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - I believe virtually everything I read.
05/21/2009 @ 03:23:20 PM
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Alex Wrote - Today @ 01:52:49 PM
I'll concede to the argument that if you're talking overall value Mauer's position (and performance at said position) gives him a big edge. 07-09 WAR value is 10.5 for Mauer to Braun's 8.6. But I take issue with calling defense a weakness for Braun. Yes, he was not very good at 3rd. But he's really turned into an at least average LF. Well, I guess only an almost average LF according to the numbers. His UZR is slightly negative (as opposed to his -35.5 per 150 games at 3rd). Looks like he has an average arm and a little below average range.

I accept your apology.
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scott.jpgScott - Resident Tech Support
05/22/2009 @ 08:38:14 AM
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I wonder if Jake Peavy rejected that trade to the White Sox before or after the White Sox got pummeled by the Twins.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 08:43:51 AM
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Jeremy Wrote - Yesterday @ 04:23:20 PM
Alex Wrote - Yesterday @ 02:52:49 PM
I'll concede to the argument that if you're talking overall value Mauer's position (and performance at said position) gives him a big edge. 07-09 WAR value is 10.5 for Mauer to Braun's 8.6. But I take issue with calling defense a weakness for Braun. Yes, he was not very good at 3rd. But he's really turned into an at least average LF. Well, I guess only an almost average LF according to the numbers. His UZR is slightly negative (as opposed to his -35.5 per 150 games at 3rd). Looks like he has an average arm and a little below average range.
I accept your apology.


Did you see the catch Braun made against the Cardinals Monday night? A complete full extension swan drive to rob the cardinals of at least a double.
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Scott perfected this at 05/22/2009 8:45:19 am
scott.jpgScott - Resident Tech Support
05/22/2009 @ 08:56:21 AM
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It appears that the pitching matchups favor the Brewers this weekend.
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 09:10:29 AM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 08:43:51 AM
Jeremy Wrote - Yesterday @ 03:23:20 PM
Alex Wrote - Yesterday @ 01:52:49 PM
I'll concede to the argument that if you're talking overall value Mauer's position (and performance at said position) gives him a big edge. 07-09 WAR value is 10.5 for Mauer to Braun's 8.6. But I take issue with calling defense a weakness for Braun. Yes, he was not very good at 3rd. But he's really turned into an at least average LF. Well, I guess only an almost average LF according to the numbers. His UZR is slightly negative (as opposed to his -35.5 per 150 games at 3rd). Looks like he has an average arm and a little below average range.
I accept your apology.


Did you see the catch Braun made against the Cardinals Monday night? A complete full extension swan drive to rob the cardinals of at least a double.


No, we were too busy watching Mauer go 3 for 4 with 2 doubles and a Grand Slam, getting 6 RBI's in the process, which extended his hitting steak to 14 games. emoticon
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 1.21 Gigawatts!?!?
05/22/2009 @ 09:16:29 AM
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Also, I meant to post this the other day, nothing to do with this "debate" but check out this crazy play from the other day. The Yankee's speed daemon tries to catch the Twins off guard to win the game.

http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp?content_id=4608765
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 09:52:59 AM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 10:10:29 AM
Scott Wrote - Today @ 09:43:51 AM
Jeremy Wrote - Yesterday @ 04:23:20 PM
Alex Wrote - Yesterday @ 02:52:49 PM
I'll concede to the argument that if you're talking overall value Mauer's position (and performance at said position) gives him a big edge. 07-09 WAR value is 10.5 for Mauer to Braun's 8.6. But I take issue with calling defense a weakness for Braun. Yes, he was not very good at 3rd. But he's really turned into an at least average LF. Well, I guess only an almost average LF according to the numbers. His UZR is slightly negative (as opposed to his -35.5 per 150 games at 3rd). Looks like he has an average arm and a little below average range.
I accept your apology.
Did you see the catch Braun made against the Cardinals Monday night? A complete full extension swan drive to rob the cardinals of at least a double.
No, we were too busy watching Mauer go 3 for 4 with 2 doubles and a Grand Slam, getting 6 RBI's in the process, which extended his hitting steak to 14 games. emoticon


You mean the same day Ryan Braun went 2-3 with a double, 2 walks, an RBI and 4 runs scored? Sure, maybe on paper not as impressive, but he produced 5 runs vs Mauer's six, and Braun made that sick catch.

2 can play at this game.
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Scott screwed with this at 05/22/2009 9:53:43 am
sarah.jpgSarah - 4635 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 09:53:49 AM
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Did you count the time he got hit by the ball as a hit?
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scott.jpgScott - On your mark...get set...Terrible!
05/22/2009 @ 09:54:58 AM
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I'm reading the box score. What are you talking about?
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 09:55:50 AM
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Braun got plunked in the ribs last night.
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sarah.jpgSarah - 4635 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 09:56:27 AM
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Last night?
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 09:57:00 AM
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oh, it must have been listed as a BB in the box score.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 09:58:31 AM
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The Brewers have the 2nd most walks drawn and 3rd most hit-batsmen at the plate this year. The Brewers have either walked or been beaned 203 times already this season.
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sarah.jpgSarah - 4635 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 09:58:44 AM
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The Mauer play vs the Braun play, it's not even close. Mauer's is way more awesome and stopped the winning run in the bottom of the 9th. We're going to Sunday's game, so I'm excited about that. I'm not sure if I've ever been to a Twins/Brewers game. The Twins pitching sux, from starting to closer, but hopefully they can put up some runs to make up for it. I think they'll be very happy to be home after such a pitiful road stretch.
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scott.jpgScott - If you aren't enough without it, you'll never be enough with it.
05/22/2009 @ 10:01:08 AM
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And Braun did not get plunked in the game I was referring to, (5/18/2009). I think Sarah is up to her old "I'll give a jab to your comment but it won't really be relevant to anything" ways again.
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Scott screwed with this 2 times, last at 05/22/2009 10:12:50 am
scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 10:04:16 AM
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And seeing that the Twins pitcher just sat there and watched as his catcher left to field the ball, your "outstanding play" is another way of saying "our incompetent pitcher almost cost us the game". But the play was impressive nonetheless.
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Scott edited this 2 times, last at 05/22/2009 10:05:12 am
fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 10:11:31 AM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 10:01:08 AM
And Braun did not get plunked in the game I was referring to, (5/28/2009). I think Sarah is up to her old "I'll give a jab to your comment but it won't really be relevant to anything" ways again.
Scott Wrote - Today @ 10:04:16 AM
And seeing that the Twins pitcher just sat there and watched as his catcher left to field the ball, your "outstanding play" is another way of saying "our incompetent pitcher almost cost us the game". But the play was impressive nonetheless.


I said it was "crazy," but either way it was a great play by Mauer. The pitcher didn't "sit there" he got a glove on it, then couldn't find it, and had he not gotten a glove on it it would have been the game winning hit. But I guess I can't argue with a guy who's apparently already aware of what Braun's stats will be almost a week from now.

(Braun did get hit last night, we were watching the game, I didn't notice you were talking about a game from Monday either.)
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Jeremy screwed with this 2 times, last at 05/22/2009 10:14:52 am
scott.jpgScott - Ma'am, can you make sure your computer is turned on?
05/22/2009 @ 10:14:11 AM
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Oops, I meant 5/18/2009. Yeah, the pitcher made a good play I guess. but afterwards, it seemed that he didn't cover home like the pitcher should when the catcher leaves the plate.
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scott.jpgScott - Get Up! Get outta here! Gone!
05/22/2009 @ 10:16:55 AM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 11:11:31 AM
(Braun did get hit last night, we were watching the game, I didn't notice you were talking about a game from Monday either.)


So did Mauer have his big game last night? I assumed you were referring to the same day as Braun's catch, in which case Sarah's comment about Braun getting hit was completely irrelevant. However, it appears that we both were talking about 2 different days, and thus two different games.
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Scott edited this at 05/22/2009 10:17:19 am
fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - Always thinking of, but never about, the children.
05/22/2009 @ 10:20:15 AM
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Well, we'd be talking about two different games either way. emoticon But yeah, we got a bit out of sync. We're used to the Brewers not being able get a single without an instant update from you, so I guess we assumed it was last night's game. emoticon

Bustin' Chops! emoticon
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scott.jpgScott - On your mark...get set...Terrible!
05/22/2009 @ 10:46:55 AM
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I love my team, and I want others to love them too! And, if you haven't noticed, I get excited about little things (2 managers filled out incorrect scorecards in less than 1 week!!!!).
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - "The tallest blade of grass is the first to be cut by the lawnmower."
05/22/2009 @ 12:24:09 PM
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Scott and Jerm- ok, so after all that, who's is bigger?
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2887.gifAlex - 3619 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 12:32:56 PM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 10:11:31 AM
I said it was "crazy," but either way it was a great play by Mauer. The pitcher didn't "sit there" he got a glove on it, then couldn't find it, and had he not gotten a glove on it it would have been the game winning hit.


The 2nd baseman was shaded way up the middle, at worst he fields the ball if the pitcher doesn't get in the way and it's runners at 1st and 3rd. Probably he would've had a chance to throw the guy out at first.

Really, it was a horrible base running decision. If Mauer hadn't made a perfectly pointless pump fake, he would've been back to the plate before the runner was even 2/3 of the way there. And that was a pitiful slide by the runner, nice dive by Mauer though.
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2887.gifAlex - 3619 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 12:36:10 PM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 08:43:51 AM
Did you see the catch Braun made against the Cardinals Monday night? A complete full extension swan drive to rob the cardinals of at least a double.


He doesn't have that much experience in the outfield yet and I think he'll keep improving. Highlight reel catches aren't all created equal though, if he was faster he wouldn't have had to dive in the first place.

He threw out a runner at home last night too.
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/22/2009 @ 02:14:43 PM
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Alex Wrote - Today @ 12:32:56 PM
Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 10:11:31 AM
I said it was "crazy," but either way it was a great play by Mauer. The pitcher didn't "sit there" he got a glove on it, then couldn't find it, and had he not gotten a glove on it it would have been the game winning hit.


The 2nd baseman was shaded way up the middle, at worst he fields the ball if the pitcher doesn't get in the way and it's runners at 1st and 3rd. Probably he would've had a chance to throw the guy out at first.

Really, it was a horrible base running decision. If Mauer hadn't made a perfectly pointless pump fake, he would've been back to the plate before the runner was even 2/3 of the way there. And that was a pitiful slide by the runner, nice dive by Mauer though.


Well sure, whatever, the point is the pitcher didn't "stand there" giving Mauer some sort of "Well...aren't you going to get that?" look. He was trying to locate the ball and then was too far away to do anything about the runner going home. He actually realized Mauer had it at roughly the same point Mauer realized the guy was breaking for home. As for the "pump fake" players do that all the time. I have to assume they're just taught to go through the motions and decide what to do halfway through, rather than decide or not, and then start, and lose .25 seconds.

It was indeed stupid base running. I'll give the slide a pass because he would obviously have been out on a straight slide, his only hope was to slide around back of the plate and hope Mauer over committed to getting him out on the 3rd base side of the plate. (Although, come to think of it, he actually does a pretty crappy job at that too, so I guess it depends on what you mean by "pitiful." I.e. intent (to not just "attack" the base), or execution.)
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2887.gifAlex - I don't need to get steady I know just how I feel
05/22/2009 @ 06:49:15 PM
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I meant the execution of the slide, not the idea to go back door.
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sarah.jpgSarah - So's your face
05/22/2009 @ 09:05:38 PM
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Sarah Wrote - 05/17/2009 @ 01:49:45 PM
I think the best outfield for the Twins right now is Span in right, Gomez in center, and Young in left. I don't know why, but I've lost all confidence in Cuddyer, he doesn't have the speed we need in right field and when batting, doesn't do a lot. When he does get on base, he just seems to do dumb things.
emoticon
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jon.jpgJon - 1000000 posts (and counting!)
05/23/2009 @ 06:12:06 AM
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Micah Wrote - 05/21/2009 @ 08:25:55 AM
Total outfield defense has way more to do with range and almost nothing to do with errors. Delmon Young and Carlos Gomez both had 8 errors in the outfield last year, but I dont think there's any debate over who is the better fielder. I don't think there's much debate between Gomez and Braun as well, with their 8 to 0 errors.


Yeah the errors thing didn't hold much weight with me either (though I do think it's notable that he was the only regular LF to go without any), so I looked at some of the other measurements. If I'm remembering correctly, the one thing that actually stuck out was how many out-of-zone outs he got last year. Quite a few it seems. More than anyone else. But then again, his overall ratings don't paint him as anything great, though not poor either, when looked at all together. Not that I'd put all stock in the fielding stats, but they at least show general strengths and weaknesses.

Anyway, Braun has played two years and I remember him sucking at fielding for one of them. Therefore, I feel ok calling it a weakness.
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face.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
05/23/2009 @ 11:21:08 PM
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Sarah Wrote - Yesterday @ 09:05:38 PM
Sarah Wrote - 05/17/2009 @ 01:49:45 PM
I think the best outfield for the Twins right now is Span in right, Gomez in center, and Young in left. I don't know why, but I've lost all confidence in Cuddyer, he doesn't have the speed we need in right field and when batting, doesn't do a lot. When he does get on base, he just seems to do dumb things.
emoticon


what, with the cycle? still?
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scott.jpgScott - Get Up! Get outta here! Gone!
05/26/2009 @ 09:02:04 AM
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The Brewers have won 3 1-0 games this year. Those are pretty rare as it is, and the Brewers have won three of them.
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scott.jpgScott - No, I did not change your screen saver settings
05/26/2009 @ 08:57:11 PM
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A good article about the Brewers.
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sarah.jpgSarah - 4635 Posts
05/26/2009 @ 10:11:52 PM
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Scott Wrote - Today @ 09:02:04 AM
The Brewers have won 3 1-0 games this year. Those are pretty rare as it is, and the Brewers have won three of them.


How many games have they lost 8-1 this year?

Edit: Looks like only 1, that seems rarer, but somehow more likely.
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Sarah perfected this at 05/26/2009 10:15:07 pm
fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/26/2009 @ 11:26:59 PM
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MLB scores Since 1993:

win  lose    count(*)    freq%
4 3 1725 4.969606177
3 2 1669 4.808274034
5 4 1530 4.407824609
2 1 1262 3.63573507
4 2 1185 3.413903374
6 5 1171 3.373570338
5 3 1157 3.333237302
5 2 994 2.86364553
3 1 961 2.768574803
6 3 931 2.68214687
4 1 875 2.520814727
6 4 872 2.512171934
7 6 829 2.388291896
6 2 785 2.261530927
5 1 716 2.06274668
7 4 695 2.002247126
7 3 673 1.938866642
7 5 612 1.763129844
6 1 578 1.665178186
7 2 577 1.662297254
8 3 501 1.44334649
2 0 492 1.41741811
3 0 492 1.41741811
1 0 491 1.414537178
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Jeremy edited this at 05/26/2009 11:33:26 pm
scott.jpgScott - If you aren't enough without it, you'll never be enough with it.
05/27/2009 @ 05:34:13 AM
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So there are about 30 1-0 games per year. I don't know if that makes it seem rare or not.
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scott.jpgScott - Get Up! Get outta here! Gone!
05/27/2009 @ 05:55:38 AM
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The fans come out in force for the Brewers. Somehow JJ Hardy is first among shortstops.
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newalex.jpgAlex - 3619 Posts
05/27/2009 @ 12:48:21 PM
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I'm actually a little disgusted with those numbers. It's one thing to vote with a little bias or have a "vote Hart in" push, but there must be 371,950 ballots entered with straight Brewers because no one thinking even slightly objectively would vote for Bill Hall. Although there are some unwarranted Cardinals on there too so it's not just Brewer fans.
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - Super Chocolate Bear
05/27/2009 @ 02:59:59 PM
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Fan voting is stupid, and made stupider by the fact that you can pretty much start all star voting 3 minutes into the season. Really, what do they expect the votes to be if not "straight for my team" votes? At very best it would be "vote for names I know."

I'm pretty sure it's a safe bet that "even slightly objective" wouldn't describe 99.9% of Wisconsin sports fans. They seem to confuse "complete lack of objectivity" and "loyalty."
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/27/2009 @ 05:00:51 PM
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Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 03:59:59 PM
Fan voting is stupid, and made stupider by the fact that you can pretty much start all star voting 3 minutes into the season. Really, what do they expect the votes to be if not "straight for my team" votes? At very best it would be "vote for names I know." I'm pretty sure it's a safe bet that "even slightly objective" wouldn't describe 99.9% of Wisconsin sports fans. They seem to confuse "complete lack of objectivity" and "loyalty."


So Wisconsin fans are the only ones to ever do something like this?

I'll bust some chops too. The Twins have more than just a sweep to thank the Brewers for. The Brewers sweep actually put some people into the stands of the Metrodome for a change.
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Scott screwed with this at 05/27/2009 5:14:54 pm
newalex.jpgAlex - But let history remember, that as free men, we chose to make it so!
05/27/2009 @ 05:44:04 PM
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Well, I think you're supposed to look at the 2nd half of the previous year too right?
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face.bmpCarlos44ec - Knuckle Sammich
05/27/2009 @ 06:37:47 PM
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can someone take away Jeremy's quotation marks please?
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 1.21 Gigawatts!?!?
05/27/2009 @ 10:48:06 PM
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Scott Wrote - Yesterday @ 05:00:51 PM
Jeremy Wrote - Yesterday @ 02:59:59 PM
Fan voting is stupid, and made stupider by the fact that you can pretty much start all star voting 3 minutes into the season. Really, what do they expect the votes to be if not "straight for my team" votes? At very best it would be "vote for names I know." I'm pretty sure it's a safe bet that "even slightly objective" wouldn't describe 99.9% of Wisconsin sports fans. They seem to confuse "complete lack of objectivity" and "loyalty."


So Wisconsin fans are the only ones to ever do something like this?

I'll bust some chops too. The Twins have more than just a sweep to thank the Brewers for. The Brewers sweep actually put some people into the stands of the Metrodome for a change.


We've been over this before. You're comparing apples and oranges. You guys got a new stadium, and, in the past couple years, have your first decent teams since the cold war. Outside of the three seasons with the obvious explanations you guys aren't really blowing the Twins away anyway, and that's still with the new-newish stadium factor.

Average attendance
YearBrewersTwins
200019,427*12,355
200134,70422,287
200224,31723,758
200320,99224,024
200425,46123,490
200527,29625,168
200628,83528,210
200735,42128,350
200837,88228,425

*Last year at County Stadium

2002-2006 Avg: Brewers - 25380; Twins - 24930
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Jeremy messed with this 2 times, last at 05/28/2009 12:04:39 am
vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - You had me at "Hello"
05/28/2009 @ 08:29:48 AM
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take out 2000 if you want to be statistically accurate- then do a comparison between market-population and attendence.

Brewers will win.
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reign_of_fire_150.jpgMicah - 584 Posts
05/28/2009 @ 09:17:57 AM
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You have to take out 2001 as well since that was the first year of Miller Park.

You also have to control for overall hatred of the Metrodome. I have family in both the Milwaukee and MSP areas, and when we get together in WI we will go to Brewers games sometimes, but we never go to Twins games because no one wants to sit in the crappy Metrodome on a nice July evening.

Also just to bust on some Brewers, I guess Corey Hart has just had a slump for August, September, April, May......
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - 9506 Posts
05/28/2009 @ 09:28:04 AM
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Well, it was never my intent to declare the Twins a "winner." The MSP area has a population of 2,367,204, and the Milwaukee area has 1,739,497, so that's not that huge of an advantage. The point is Scott has brought it up a few times as if the Brewers have never not sold out a game, and the Twins have 17 people show up for games, which obviously isn't the case.
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
05/28/2009 @ 09:59:34 AM
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Can't wait for outdoor ownage!
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matt.jpgMatt - 3905 Posts
05/28/2009 @ 12:22:02 PM
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Carlos44ec Wrote - Today @ 08:29:48 AM
take out 2000 if you want to be statistically accurate- then do a comparison between market-population and attendence.

Brewers will win.


As Jeremy said, we already went over this.

http://www.nutcan.com/links.php?link_id=1058&title=Target_Field (about 1/4 of the way down, 09/16/2008 @ 10:03:33 PM and 09/17/2008 @ 10:23:27 AM).

Jeremy Wrote - Today @ 09:28:04 AM
Well, it was never my intent to declare the Twins a "winner." The MSP area has a population of 2,367,204, and the Milwaukee area has 1,739,497, so that's not that huge of an advantage. The point is Scott has brought it up a few times as if the Brewers have never not sold out a game, and the Twins have 17 people show up for games, which obviously isn't the case.


While he has made this argument in the past, and may have been doing so now, his statement a few posts ago was:
Scott Wrote - Yesterday @ 05:00:51 PM
I'll bust some chops too. The Twins have more than just a sweep to thank the Brewers for. The Brewers sweep actually put some people into the stands of the Metrodome for a change.


There is a bit of truth to this statement. While the Twins attendance isn't horrible, it isn't the best, and the Brewers coming to town did put more fans than usual into the seats (as also happens when the Yankees come to the Dome, or in Milwaukee's case, when the Cubs visit Miller Park).
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2887.gifAlex - You've got to trust your instinct, and let go of regret
05/28/2009 @ 01:06:07 PM
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Carlos44ec Wrote - Today @ 09:59:34 AM
Can't wait for outdoor ownage!


And rain delays!
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jeremy.jpgJeremy - I believe virtually everything I read.
05/28/2009 @ 02:21:11 PM
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Matt Wrote - Today @ 12:22:02 PM
Scott Wrote - Yesterday @ 05:00:51 PM
I'll bust some chops too. The Twins have more than just a sweep to thank the Brewers for. The Brewers sweep actually put some people into the stands of the Metrodome for a change.


There is a bit of truth to this statement. While the Twins attendance isn't horrible, it isn't the best, and the Brewers coming to town did put more fans than usual into the seats (as also happens when the Yankees come to the Dome, or in Milwaukee's case, when the Cubs visit Miller Park).

Well, I never tried to argue that wasn't true, that would be asinine. Obviously those games are a bigger draw, both because of the brewer fans, and because more twins fans come, but that wasn't the implication of his comment.
Scott Wrote - 05/19/2009 @ 03:06:44 PM
don't put words in my mouth

Take that!
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IMG_3063[1].jpgjthompto
05/28/2009 @ 06:34:40 PM
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Yep, the Metrodome sucks and Millerpark is awesome you got me there. I wonder how the Brewers attendance would be if they played in the crappiest stadium in the league. Probably similar to the twins.

Now my turn to bust some chops. How many championship banners hang in Miller Park? And Wild Card champion doesn't count.
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fry6beeu9.jpgJeremy - 1.21 Gigawatts!?!?
05/28/2009 @ 10:46:12 PM
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chamion.gif
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vignette.bmpCarlos44ec - 2079 Posts
05/29/2009 @ 08:12:18 AM
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WTF was with that Ump yesterday? talk about d-baggery!
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Carlos44ec screwed with this at 05/29/2009 8:12:49 am
hoochpage.JPGSarah - So's your face
05/29/2009 @ 02:34:56 PM
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Carlos44ec Wrote - Today @ 08:12:18 AM
WTF was with that Ump yesterday? talk about d-baggery!


I enjoyed it, except for the part where it probably cost us the game...
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sarah.jpgSarah - How do you use these things?
05/29/2009 @ 07:30:28 PM
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Scott - you going to any Twins games this weekend? Looks like not a lot of people are there for tonight's game.
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sarah.jpgSarah - 4635 Posts
05/29/2009 @ 10:07:08 PM
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Oh no, Punto's on the DL!!!
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2887.gifAlex - 3619 Posts
05/29/2009 @ 10:26:07 PM
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Went to the Brewer's game tonight, a successful and extremely quick (2:14) game, although their offense is completely dependent on the homerun. 3 runs on 3 hits, Fielder and Hart homered. The fans are cuckoo for Hoffman puffs. I'm not sure I remember any other game where the crowd stood up and started cheering in pure anticipation of the closer running in from the bullpen. And he delivered once again, after giving up a 2 out single he struck out probably the Reds best hitter to end the game.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/30/2009 @ 07:40:29 AM
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jthompto Wrote - 05/28/2009 @ 07:34:40 PM
Yep, the Metrodome sucks and Millerpark is awesome you got me there. I wonder how the Brewers attendance would be if they played in the crappiest stadium in the league. Probably similar to the twins. Now my turn to bust some chops. How many championship banners hang in Miller Park? And Wild Card champion doesn't count.


Does AL Championship count? Because they do have one of those. Is this the Twins equivalent to "How many Super Bowls have the Vikings won?" from a Packer fan?

Anyway, in spite of some of my remarks, and despite the constant razzing from a few select NutCanners, I actually like the Twins. I generally root for them when they are not playing the Brewers.
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Scott screwed with this at 05/30/2009 9:06:41 am
scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/30/2009 @ 07:47:35 AM
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And just for the record, to use Jeremy's table of attendance against his own argument, I think the honeymoon of the new stadium wore off after about the 3rd year. The rest of that I believe is in response to the Brewers starting to get more competitive. Which might sound like I'm actually making Jeremy's second point, but now the Brewers have been competitive since 2005. And anytime a team is good, that helps get people in the stands. The real question I guess (because people have made the argument that Twins fans are somehow tired of the Twins only being "Good"; that they are used to winning so they don't need to go to the games for a unique chance of seeing a competitive team) is will the Brewers stay competitive, and if so, will their attendance remain this way even if they don't win a World Series. But anyway, you guys all suck.
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Scott messed with this at 05/30/2009 7:58:59 am
scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/30/2009 @ 07:57:42 AM
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Jeremy Wrote - 05/28/2009 @ 10:28:04 AM
Well, it was never my intent to declare the Twins a "winner." The MSP area has a population of 2,367,204, and the Milwaukee area has 1,739,497, so that's not that huge of an advantage. The point is Scott has brought it up a few times as if the Brewers have never not sold out a game, and the Twins have 17 people show up for games, which obviously isn't the case.


No, my point was to bust chops for your busted chops comment about Wisconsin sports fans. (And the Brewers do have a whole bunch of sellouts this season. I don't have the exact numbers, but at one time, they had something like 8 sell-outs in a row; and that included weekdays before school was out. I don't care who you are, that's impressive.)
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Scott messed with this 3 times, last at 05/30/2009 8:01:34 am
scott.jpgScott - Resident Tech Support
05/30/2009 @ 08:25:18 AM
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Scott Wrote - 05/27/2009 @ 06:55:38 AM
The fans come out in force for the Brewers. Somehow JJ Hardy is first among shortstops.
Alex Wrote - 05/27/2009 @ 01:48:21 PM
I'm actually a little disgusted with those numbers. It's one thing to vote with a little bias or have a "vote Hart in" push, but there must be 371,950 ballots entered with straight Brewers because no one thinking even slightly objectively would vote for Bill Hall. Although there are some unwarranted Cardinals on there too so it's not just Brewer fans.


I believe the concept of fan voting is this: "Who do you want to see in the All-Star game." With the birth of internet voting, the number of votes has skyrocketed, and I think in turn the interest in the game has risen. Fan voting does lend itself to the possibility of pretty odd results (See Manny Ramirez and his being 4th among NL outfields while being out for steriods), but who's to say what fans should choose as their motive for voting? I think if anything, Bill Hall being so close to the top indicates that the Brewers fan base is as active and interested as it has EVER been, because I'd be hard to believe that EVERY brewer fan voted straight Brewers (I have not noted at all). This in fact then should be considered a victory for major league baseball in that the interest, even from the smaller markets, is increasing.

And just to smooth out the ruffled feathers of those who think Bill Hall's placement destroys the concept of fan-internet voting: I'm sure he won't actually get voted as a starter; and I'm sure if you look hard enough, you will find someone who actually did get voted as a starter who did not deserve it based on his stats.
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Scott edited this at 05/30/2009 8:27:37 am
hoochpage.JPGSarah - How do you use these things?
05/30/2009 @ 04:03:36 PM
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The Rays have a lot of ex-Brewers. A couple of ex - Twins, but I think they're all from that one deal a couple of years ago.
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
05/30/2009 @ 04:52:02 PM
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I was just thinking that about the rays. Joe dillon, gabes kapler and gross, brian shouse, and grant balfour were all brewers that now play for the rays.
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hoochpage.JPGSarah - 4635 Posts
06/02/2009 @ 05:02:24 PM
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http://blog.mlive.com/cutoffman/2009/06/brewers_gm_corey_hart_trade_ta.html

So this probably means it'll happen any day now...
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scott.jpgScott - 6225 Posts
06/02/2009 @ 05:45:58 PM
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Does Corey Hart really have much trade value? What kind of pitcher could the brewers get for him that would actually help their rotation?

Besides, he is just in an easily explanable slump.
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Scott messed with this at 06/02/2009 5:46:32 pm
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