Cleveland Indians @ Minnesota Twins GameThread, Apr 20, 2008 2:10 PM EDT

Indians vs. Baker (with over 10 ABs):

Blake: 7-16; 1 2B; 1 K
Hafner: 8-16; 2 2B; 3 HR; 2 BB; 2 Ks
Martinez: 5-17; 1 2B; 1 BB; 3 Ks
Peralta: 5-20; 3 2B; 1 HR; 5 Ks
Sizemore: 8-18; 2 2B; 2 BB; 2 Ks

Twins v. Byrd:
Cuddyer: 4-25; 2 2B; 1 HR; 4Ks
Kubel: 5-13; 1 2B; 1 HR; 1 BB
Mauer: 5-24; 1 2B; 3 BB
Monroe: 3-19; 1 2B; 1HR; 5Ks
Morneau: 14-44; 1 2B; 1 3B; 3 HRs; 1 BB; 1 K
Punto: 6-26; 2 2B; 1 BB; 3 Ks.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 1:35 PM EDT reply actions

I’m calling the Cleveland P.D. tomorrow asking for an APB to be put out for ANDREW MARTINEZ.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 1:40 PM EDT reply actions

Funny thing, it appears Marte’s given name really is “Andy,” and he may be the only such player in MLB history. (It’s hard to say for sure.)

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions

Nope, looks like there’s been exactly one other.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions

I guess the Hafner-gets-the-day-off reports were greatly exaggerated.

by Fiddlesticks on Apr 20, 2008 1:46 PM EDT reply actions

If Jamey Carroll doesn’t get to play, then I’m not going to play either. Have a good game, or at least game thread, everyone.

by Fiddlesticks on Apr 20, 2008 1:52 PM EDT reply actions

wonder why vic is catching byrdie today?

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 2:01 PM EDT reply actions

Well, Shoppach caught Lee, and the last game with Byrd and Vic went better than the previous two. And they didn’t play late last night. I approve.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 2:04 PM EDT up reply actions

haha – not disagreeing, vic is probably (certainly?) the better hitter, and after the “performance” from last night, we need all the hitting we can get. Just curious if there was another reason….

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions

i’m pretty sure that at some point in the last week i heard wedge on the radio saying they’re not going to stick with the “personal catcher” thing. they will work shoppach in whenever they need to.

by mpstable on Apr 20, 2008 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions

Have to wonder if they don’t feel like pairing Lee and Martinez together all the time anyway, after that little dust-up last season. More likely it’s water under the bridge, but who knows?

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions

I don’t think it has anything to do with personal catchers. I don’t think Vic’s hamstring is good enough to play first base and Wedge probably feels he can’t take Vic’s bat out of the lineup with this punchless offense. Therefore, he catches.

by TribeJay on Apr 20, 2008 5:34 PM EDT up reply actions

free marte

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:05 PM EDT reply actions

See above.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions

Man I haven’t been in a game thread since game 3.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Apr 20, 2008 2:10 PM EDT reply actions

about the same for me…SBN 2.0 doesn’t like my computer very much

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions

I find it’s been more manageable the last couple weeks.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions

don’t we normally beat up Scott Baker?

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 2:11 PM EDT reply actions

4.35 ERA in 39.1 IP.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Apr 20, 2008 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions

that sounds more like a deep tissue massage than a beating…

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions

He is 2-4 against us and is tied with LAA for the most walks against a team.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Apr 20, 2008 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions

Alright c’mon Tribe, Raps are pissing me off here, I need some positivity in my sports life.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:13 PM EDT reply actions

not the kind of beginning I was hoping for…

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 2:14 PM EDT reply actions

Yeah, taking pitches is neat.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Apr 20, 2008 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions

That was pretty quick inning

One day I'll get over to watch the Tribe play

by new zealand tribe fan on Apr 20, 2008 2:15 PM EDT reply actions

I’ve got run out and get some propane and ingredients for a garlic sauce…I’ll be back

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 2:15 PM EDT reply actions

They were so getting those calls yesterday.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:19 PM EDT reply actions

Hit the ball right at Dellucci, and he can handle it.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Apr 20, 2008 2:20 PM EDT reply actions

And now another wacky ground rule from the Abomination Dome. At least Kubel went on to strike out.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Apr 20, 2008 2:21 PM EDT reply actions

Did anyone see the animation of their new ballpark the other night? Is it just me, or does it look like Jacobs Field’s little brother?

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 2:23 PM EDT reply actions

Haha Paul Byrd is a friggin magician.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:24 PM EDT reply actions

That was a hard hit ball.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 2:27 PM EDT reply actions

Oh look, another DP ball….

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 2:30 PM EDT reply actions

lucky

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions

I’m sensing a comment-record today.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:33 PM EDT reply actions

Anyone listening to WTAM’s gameday feed? Is the game preempted by the Pope’s visit?

by SanD on Apr 20, 2008 2:33 PM EDT reply actions

The Pope’s visit also pre-empted Looch’s contribution to the offence.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions

I like watching Garko’s at-bats.

Minus the K, of course.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Apr 20, 2008 2:35 PM EDT reply actions

Asdrubal looking a little more comfortable as of late as well.

by Pronktastic on Apr 20, 2008 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Yay!

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 2:38 PM EDT reply actions

Okay I’m not a proponent of swinging at the first pitch with two men on following a walk to the previous batter…

But well done Gutz.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Apr 20, 2008 2:39 PM EDT reply actions

Pushing a run across like that could be big.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 2:39 PM EDT reply actions

Yes a run

One day I'll get over to watch the Tribe play

by new zealand tribe fan on Apr 20, 2008 2:39 PM EDT reply actions

Good at bat by Nickname Boy

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:40 PM EDT reply actions

And mr. clutch comes through again

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 2:40 PM EDT reply actions

hire fucking andy marte before one of us loses our mind

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:41 PM EDT reply actions

Too late. I lost mine sometime last week.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions

i know. it’s just … gah

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions

K

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 2:44 PM EDT reply actions

Scrappy David Eckstein with a HR versus Detroit. Grit!

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 2:44 PM EDT reply actions

wow. the twins went down like the indians in the 2nd inning. just 7 pitches?

by mpstable on Apr 20, 2008 2:45 PM EDT reply actions

way to start us grady

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:49 PM EDT reply actions

This All-Star/Gold Glove discussion is unbelievably inane.

I could have a more interesting conversation on this topic with a cat.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 2:49 PM EDT reply actions

???

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions

Twins feed.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions

I just realized I was listening to the Twins’ feed when I heard them say “Peralta can run.”

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:50 PM EDT reply actions

wait where is hammy

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:50 PM EDT reply actions

i know who is this clown?

my helmet has, like, no pine tar on it.

by joeee on Apr 20, 2008 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions

Pope visit. I might switch to Spanish. I don’t like this

by SanD on Apr 20, 2008 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions

Oh n/m. Last inning was all about coverage for the pope visit.

by SanD on Apr 20, 2008 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions

Hafner’s got that look …

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 2:53 PM EDT reply actions

Well, that wasn’t the look I was talking about.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions

i remember this bomb hafner hit in minnesota last year, it was one of the most decisive homerun ive ever seen

my helmet has, like, no pine tar on it.

by joeee on Apr 20, 2008 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions

:(

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions

Of defeat?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions

he’s just chasing so much more than he used to. and he fouls off those pitches right down the middle.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 2:54 PM EDT reply actions

this team is straight from hell.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 2:55 PM EDT reply actions

great

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 2:55 PM EDT reply actions

Byrd better be dominating today; the offense is back in its funk

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 2:56 PM EDT reply actions

bad time machine

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:00 PM EDT reply actions

That was a half-ass swing for a HR.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:00 PM EDT reply actions

Two on, no-out…Indians can’t move them up a base.

Nobody on, two out…Twinkies score a run.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:00 PM EDT reply actions

You’d rather they beat us with small-ball?

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions

I’d rather them have to mount some kind of rally.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions

Hafner has used up all the goodwill he bought with that 9th inning home run against the Angels. I’m pissed again.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:01 PM EDT reply actions

Peralta 3 for his last 28.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:04 PM EDT reply actions

i think garko has the longest at bats on the team.

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:06 PM EDT reply actions

strikes?

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:07 PM EDT reply actions

“swing and a miss strike three” is surprisingly lyrical

my helmet has, like, no pine tar on it.

by joeee on Apr 20, 2008 3:08 PM EDT reply actions

Hafner OPS

2006 1.097
2007 .837
2008 needs to get on today or will drop below .700

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 3:10 PM EDT reply actions

/me shoots self

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:11 PM EDT up reply actions

His OPS+ coming in to today’s game (94) is the same as Blake Dewitt, Lyle Overbay, and Matt Kemp.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions

matt kemp is legit

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by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions

Hey! If we win today we win the series! Hey!

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:13 PM EDT reply actions

I’ve forgotten what that’s like

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions

Byrd at 41 pitches through 4 innings, Baker at 65

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 3:13 PM EDT reply actions

scott baker sucks. for real.

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:16 PM EDT reply actions

Baker 7 out of 14 outs on Ks

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 3:17 PM EDT reply actions

hire marte

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:17 PM EDT reply actions

THIS IS GETTING ANNOYING

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:18 PM EDT reply actions

oh man, mario’s in all caps

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions

Typically I reserve caps for yelling FOR FUCK’S SAKE. I’ve broadened my usage based on our current struggles.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions

Something has to give with Blake eventually. Marte couldn’t perform much worse. The 3B at Kingston probably couldn’t.

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 3:18 PM EDT reply actions

why does it feel like the Indians are losing?

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 3:19 PM EDT reply actions

Because we're losing our souls

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions

Because out of the last 16 games …

5 games scoring > 4 runs
6 games scoring 3-4 runs
5 games scoring < 3 runs

... and out of the last 7 games including today (so far) ...

1 game scoring > 4 runs
3 games scoring 3-4 runs
3 games scoring < 3 runs

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions

here’s what I don’t understand.

Cabrera has filled in for a slumping Peralta. Carroll has filled in for a slumping Cabrera. Michaels filled in for a sick/slumping Gutierrez.

Is Blake immune from needing a day off? Ever? Wedge goes the extra mile to NOT get Blake out of the lineup.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:20 PM EDT reply actions

I swear Marte urinated all over the clubhouse or something.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions

Wedge’s argument would be that Blake isn’t slumping at the moment. 4-12 with a double and a HR in his last three games.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions

Andy isnt going to save this team. Core players need to start producing runs.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 3:22 PM EDT reply actions

Andy is so going to save this team. With his eyes closed. He’s a cult hero in my household.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions

mine too

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions

The point is the Blake is not going to save this team.

And that he wont’ be around in 2009. And that the Indians have a guy on their bench who, while he hasn’t lit up anything of late, has a pretty substantial track record of having done all the things you want to see in a guy to whom you at least give an opportunity to be a major league player.

Add in the fact that the team is struggling--a result to which Blake is a major contributor-and there’s really no reason NOT to try Marte.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions

Sure, throw Andy in there, it’s like rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic. If the core players don’t start producing, it won’t matter.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions

If you’re going to sink, you might as well sink in style.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions

You do it just hoping to catch lightening in a bottle—like what Gabe Kapler has done in MIL, or Jeff Keppinger in CIN, or what Asdrubal Cabrera did last year.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions

Blake never counted as a core player. Ever.

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 3:23 PM EDT reply actions

I can’t help but laugh at this. Really? They couldn’t predict that the Big Hurt was more of a Moderate-Sized Hurt at this point, and then only on days when he tried? Not as calamitous as Mike Hampton or (potentially) Barry Zito, but still pretty bad.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:27 PM EDT reply actions

oh that Zito contract is worse than Hampton’s, I think

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions

Maybe, but I think we gotta wait it out. He could still turn it around and have some good years, you never know.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions

I guess we have to wait it out, but so far Zito has been just as good as Hampton.

I see no reason to assume that Zito will (a) decline to a 6.15 ERA this season (or next), or (b) make only 12 starts in the last four years of his deal.

And that’s what makes Hampton so tough to beat.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions

nice toss Vic

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:27 PM EDT reply actions

I think both of these teams should feel pretty embarrassed about their offences.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:29 PM EDT reply actions

The way I’m embarrassed about my spelling.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions

Haha. I hate not having an edit function.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions

Signs of Life!

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:32 PM EDT reply actions

Eh, corpses are known to quiver even after death.

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions

I take it back.

VIc is hitting an empty .350…if that’s possible.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:35 PM EDT reply actions

How about Peralta HBP, then Garko single up the middle.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:35 PM EDT reply actions

He didn’t do the leaping across the plate to put his elbow in the way that I was hoping for.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions

WHAT was that swing, Jhonny?

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:36 PM EDT reply actions

Ya have to be in a pretty deep funk to make Baker look this effective.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 3:36 PM EDT reply actions

DEPRESSION

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:36 PM EDT reply actions

nah, nah, remember we diagnosed us last year as schizophrenic

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions

Well played. Our depression lectures are tomorrow so I’ll be able to use the term more responsibly then.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Fire Shelton. I’m not a fan of these month-long slumps, and this is getting to be a habit with this club.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:37 PM EDT reply actions

The Indians are the Herschel Walker of baseball teams.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:38 PM EDT reply actions

I just have this really snarky desire to tell the fans of these teams shutting us down that it doesn’t actually mean they’re any good. Yes, Nathan Blackburn shut us out yesterday in his fourth major league start – big deal. Pretty much everyone does that. It doesn’t mean you should get excited about him. It only counts for like half when it’s against our offense.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:38 PM EDT reply actions

haha

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions

The 2008 Indians are starting to remind me of the 1998 Orioles.

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 3:39 PM EDT reply actions

explain

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions

they employ a third baseman who is just hanging on toooooo long.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions

who???

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions

that was a joke about Cal Ripken and Casey Blake. not a funny one, apparently.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions

so, hire paul byrd

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:39 PM EDT reply actions

Yeah, he’s been good. Byrd-good, but 1 run is 1 run.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions

Essentially the same team on the field that vastly underperformed only one year after making it far into the playoffs and being one of the best teams in baseball.

I know, I know—it’s still early. But as someone said here a few days ago, that excuse will run dry shortly.

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions

Baker’s good.

It’s just that all these guys should not be throwing 8 innings and setting career highs in strikeouts against our offense.

With Grady, Peralta, Hafner, Gutierrez, Dellucci, and Blake, the Indians have 6 guys who strike out more than you like. Some of them offset it with other offensive contributions. But on a bad day, this team won’t put the ball in play.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:39 PM EDT reply actions

i believe you are saying that they make outs more than we like, which is correct. i could give a damn about strikeouts, unless you do it 3 times a game flailing.

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by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions

missing the point…

When David Eckstein has an off day, he grounds out three times, maybe moving the runner over. But he puts the ball in play, at least giving himself a chance to find a hole the way Guiterrez did in his first AB—it was a bad swing on a first pitch again a guy who couldn’t find the zone.

I don’t want a team full of Eckstein’s. Like I said, some offset their strikeouts with other thing (walks, hits, power). And when you lookat what other shortstops do, you’ll take Peralta’s offense every year. But when the entire lineup is strikeout prone, you either hit a homerun or you play the painful game we see all too often: get a guy on and we can’t even manufacture a run.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions

It’s nice to have run-manufacturing skills, but driving the ball is the best overall approach, and having players who “drive” better than they “manufacture” is a no-brainer, and yes, even for all nine spots in the lineup. The math on this doesn’t change with men on base, by the way.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions

I just take issue when the guys you pay to “drive” the ball lack the secondary skills to be useful when they aren’t “driving.”

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions

I’d take a team full of last year’s Travis Hafner’s over a team full of peak David Eckstein’s. I hope I’ve made that clear.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions

You’re skipping over the middle part. Your argument implies that either (a) there’s a point where you should ask them to stop trying to drive, or (b) they can employ these “secondary” skills while trying to drive. I don’t think either condition is actually true.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:01 PM EDT up reply actions

Baker LOOKS very hittable today. Except this team couldn’t hit a piñata.

The Disabled List just called ... it was trying to unload Joe Borowski. I offered a bagel but balked at giving up a ham sandwich.

by westbrook on Apr 20, 2008 3:40 PM EDT reply actions

Kubel sounds like a pastry.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:41 PM EDT reply actions

sweet

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions

I love when Byrd needs a double windup to get some mustard on the ball. He has been wonderful though.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:43 PM EDT reply actions

The exact same pitch except it’s a changeup?

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:44 PM EDT reply actions

We can still win 96 games this year, but Wedgie needs to throw some bats around the dugout.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 3:45 PM EDT reply actions

Byrd deserves kudos for these last two starts.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:46 PM EDT reply actions

Huge kudos.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions

So… C.C., as our #5 starter.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:47 PM EDT reply actions

In the time it took me to write an encouraging post about Garko, he made an out. Sigh.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:48 PM EDT reply actions

Somebody tell me Garko’s popup %

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:49 PM EDT reply actions

This year: 55.6%. For his career, 44.1.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:50 PM EDT up reply actions

as suspected.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions

anyone else having problems with mlb.tv?

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 3:50 PM EDT reply actions

mlb.tv is trying to save you the frustration you’ll thank them eventually

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions

you’re right, I probably need some angry Hammy anyway.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions

I… got nothing.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:50 PM EDT reply actions

I can’t watch this any more.

The Disabled List just called ... it was trying to unload Joe Borowski. I offered a bagel but balked at giving up a ham sandwich.

by westbrook on Apr 20, 2008 3:50 PM EDT reply actions

The Blake talk is totally out of hand.

He came into this game with a 1012 OPS for the last five games, but you wouldn’t know it from the comments here.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:51 PM EDT reply actions

He’s become the stalking horse for the whole offense.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions

you and your streaks.

The Disabled List just called ... it was trying to unload Joe Borowski. I offered a bagel but balked at giving up a ham sandwich.

by westbrook on Apr 20, 2008 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions

I imagine we’ll be overly generous toward Blake once the offense is rolling.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions

Somehow I doubt that.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions

And I did me when and not if.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions

And I did me when and not if.

??

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions

The offense WILL start rolling.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions

I see…sort of

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions

He said “me” when he meant “mean.”

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions

clarity restored

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions

Noted.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions

Casey Blake is a hack. 0 OPS over the last one game.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions

neither does Gutz

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 3:51 PM EDT reply actions

Does Minnesota have huge rates of drunk-driving fatalities? I’m listening to their radio feed and it seems like every other ad spot is a drunk driving ad…

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 3:53 PM EDT reply actions

Nope, 7th best in the nation.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions

maybe those ads are effective…

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions

Stupid kids doing stupid things

Minnesota, along with Wisconsin, North Dakota, and most of the upper Midwest, does have the highest rates of binge drinking, however.

by bcollinsmn on Apr 20, 2008 9:56 PM EDT up reply actions

The reason for the ads

It’s prom season.

by bcollinsmn on Apr 20, 2008 9:55 PM EDT up reply actions

Anyway, this park is always a misery for us. Freakin’ turf, freakin’ fluke-ball environment, freakin’ slap-hitting jerkoff Twins.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 3:55 PM EDT reply actions

It is? Hafner was batting like 1.000 at the MetroDome.

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Are the balls being hit a lot harder now?

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 3:59 PM EDT reply actions

Game on the line here..

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:00 PM EDT reply actions

Whew!!!

One day I'll get over to watch the Tribe play

by new zealand tribe fan on Apr 20, 2008 4:01 PM EDT reply actions

delicious

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 4:01 PM EDT reply actions

Alright nice work Jhonny. And Gark.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:01 PM EDT reply actions

whew.

for a second there, i thought brian buscher, mike redmond, and mike lamb just took down the indians.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:02 PM EDT reply actions

yay

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 4:02 PM EDT reply actions

That video of Cabrera slapping Gutierrez ought to give Wedge some ideas.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:03 PM EDT reply actions

C’mon Blake, make me regret making fun of you.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:03 PM EDT reply actions

Dennys Reyes has a head the size of a pumpkin.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:03 PM EDT reply actions

Wedge sits there like he’s auditing an accounting class.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 4:04 PM EDT reply actions

I’d be bored with this team, too.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions

With one run in 16 innings, Wedge has already done all the grunt math work. He’s come to a conclusion….runs are necessary.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Way to take, Blake.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:04 PM EDT reply actions

my gameday = dead

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 4:05 PM EDT reply actions

CASEY BLAKE!

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:05 PM EDT reply actions

We’re taking this game. I feel it.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:06 PM EDT reply actions

I would like to believe.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions

JMike?

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:06 PM EDT reply actions

yup, break up the lefties.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions

Tigers lose 5-3. Haven’t broken out of it yet.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:06 PM EDT reply actions

ChiSox dominating again behind Danks. If Danks and Floyd are legit, White Sox have hope to win 85.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:08 PM EDT reply actions

could this division just be… bad.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:09 PM EDT reply actions

Fortunately, yes. It’s the only hope the Indians have! :D

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions

hire gary busey and rocky colavito

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:09 PM EDT reply actions

michaels is a rock of suck

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:10 PM EDT reply actions

Wow surprised they didn’t turn that.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:10 PM EDT reply actions

Travis breaks the tie, now. I’m sure of it!

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:10 PM EDT reply actions

I seem to have left my psychic powers in my other pants.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:13 PM EDT up reply actions

Are they in the shift? I’d love to see Pronk do what he did in Toronto last year

by SanD on Apr 20, 2008 4:11 PM EDT reply actions

At home to Toronto.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions

intentional overreaction

I hate baseball

The Disabled List just called ... it was trying to unload Joe Borowski. I offered a bagel but balked at giving up a ham sandwich.

by westbrook on Apr 20, 2008 4:13 PM EDT reply actions

f.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:13 PM EDT reply actions

3 months till Browns training camp

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:14 PM EDT reply actions

BOOOOOOOOOOOOO

You joined 19 minutes ago to say that?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:15 PM EDT up reply actions

way to be nosey

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions

Way to be a negative assclown?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions

Come on, man … “HireRockyColavito” ... you gotta admit, that’s pretty good.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions

we should, i bet he still has some pop in his bat. more than jason michaels

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions

Kind of preaching to the choir on this.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions

I’d take Harvey Kuenn at this point.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:21 PM EDT up reply actions

Get used to it.

Gotta give you credit for the LGT-savvy username, though.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions

I have never watched a football game since the Browns left town. I have nothing to look forward to!

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions

but julie, they came back!

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions

My affection for football was extremely shallow. And it DIED.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions

sigh.

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 4:14 PM EDT reply actions

Cavs up 1-0!

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:15 PM EDT reply actions

that alley-oop dunk was amazing

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions

We’re coming back. Here we come.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:16 PM EDT reply actions

Masatime

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:16 PM EDT reply actions

Ever notice how our infield generates notoriously few webgems?

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:17 PM EDT reply actions

punto’s got 2 turf hits today. damn him.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:17 PM EDT reply actions

do we think carroll gets to that ball?

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 4:17 PM EDT reply actions

The turf is there for the top half of the inning, too.

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions

I used to think that type of comeback was an effective argument, but the Twins know how to use the cement flooring better because of experience.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions

And the team is acquired and deployed based on skills more aligned with that environment.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions

The Indians are sucking.

Blame the turf, lighting, dome temperature. Rationalize however you like.

"Albert Belle blooped the ball over the fence." -- Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox after Game 5 of the 1995 World Series

by Eric Plunk on Apr 20, 2008 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions

I won’t deny the Indians are sucking, but the environment can turn a merely mediocre game with mediocre luck into a total embarrassment.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:30 PM EDT up reply actions

Gomez bunts like the Shapiro/Wedge Indians

by cheech99 on Apr 20, 2008 4:19 PM EDT reply actions

Gomez finally gets to fulfil his fantasy of bunting in a proper situation.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:19 PM EDT reply actions

that’s just luck.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:20 PM EDT reply actions

and we have none right now.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions

I hate agreeing with Rick Manning, but Garko does look tentative on those fouls.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:22 PM EDT reply actions

OK tribe, I am drinking a beer now. JUST FOR YOU. Honor my sacrifice. Win this game.

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 4:23 PM EDT reply actions

I’m watching the movie “The Warriors” here…I feel like I’m watching an 80s non-musical version of West Side Story.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:23 PM EDT reply actions

be cool, boy

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions

Can you dig it?!

by cheech99 on Apr 20, 2008 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions

Gutz scaring the masses with his arm.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:24 PM EDT reply actions

i hear fireworks outside my apt. Reds must have won.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:25 PM EDT reply actions

they scored 3 in the 9th, could be do somthing like that?

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

*we do

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions

4-3 in 10.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

Weglarz has 3 more walks today.

That’s 18 walks in 11 games.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:27 PM EDT reply actions

At what point do they promote him just so he can finally see some pitches?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions

Uuum…?

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:29 PM EDT reply actions

WOW screw you ump.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:29 PM EDT reply actions

Nice f’ing ball 4 call ump. Christ our luck sucks.

by cheech99 on Apr 20, 2008 4:29 PM EDT reply actions

twins tv guys are shocked.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:30 PM EDT reply actions

Yeah….Twins announcer: “that pitch split the plate in half”.

by shenvalee on Apr 20, 2008 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions

That’s normally a good indication of how bad a call it is. When the homers are dumbfounded.

by Pronktastic on Apr 20, 2008 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions

Yuck.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:31 PM EDT reply actions

its sweet that vic speaks english and spanish.

my helmet has, like, no pine tar on it.

by joeee on Apr 20, 2008 4:31 PM EDT reply actions

I think I’d be able to get my point across in any language at this point.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions

ASFIUYWEGFLUYALIFUHWEILUFHLEFN!!!!!!!!

(Uzbek)

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions

This is the f’ing worst. We can’t buy a call.

by cheech99 on Apr 20, 2008 4:32 PM EDT reply actions

Uh that was strike 3

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 4:32 PM EDT reply actions

Checked swings give me heartburn.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:32 PM EDT reply actions

Uuum….that was close man.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:32 PM EDT reply actions

Yeah that went around.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

huzzah

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

Now I’m really cranky.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

alright, we can’t buy any kind of break, but we are still in this game. let’s find a damn way to win.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

how raffy got his groove back

my helmet has, like, no pine tar on it.

by joeee on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

Beautiful change of pace with that fastball. Nice work Raffy P

by cheech99 on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

Raffy laughs at shitty calls.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

Alright

One day I'll get over to watch the Tribe play

by new zealand tribe fan on Apr 20, 2008 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

Alright, some runs. A run. Any runs will do.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:34 PM EDT reply actions

my internet cut out.

looking? swinging?

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:34 PM EDT reply actions

swinging

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 4:35 PM EDT reply actions

way to start it off vic

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 4:37 PM EDT reply actions

Pinch-run?

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:37 PM EDT reply actions

oo, that means he got on… good time machine

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions

Apparently yes, but at least we know Peralta isn’t bunting.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Oh dear.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions

Oh wow

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions

Well, let’s test this theory…

At least we know Garko won’t hit a home run right now.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions

I honestly wouldn’t. Certainly if he got to second, but are we hoping for the 1st to 3rd here?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Sure, absolutely, they might send the runner.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions

It’d be cool if Carroll was like Ellsbury-fast. Then he would become easily my favourite Indian.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions

You think Reyes can take a punch?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:37 PM EDT reply actions

I can’t even be excited by the appearance of my sweet baboo.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:37 PM EDT reply actions

Vic=hitting machine

by Sockalexis on Apr 20, 2008 4:38 PM EDT reply actions

WE ACTUALLY EXECUTED A BUNT

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 4:40 PM EDT reply actions

Which in this situation is basically trading a Peralta AB with a runner on first for a Cabrera AB with a runner on second, and creating an out in the process, right? And that’s. . . good?

by VA tribe fan on Apr 20, 2008 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions

I can’t remember ever seeing Peralta bunt successfully, but I guess it’s possible this isn’t the first time.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:40 PM EDT reply actions

That certainly wasn’t the pretties succesful bunt I’ve ever seen.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions

He had a definite “Oh shit!” look on his face.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions

What is this, a beauty contest?

It didn’t succeed by accident, it was well placed.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions

Yeah, what Julie said.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:43 PM EDT up reply actions

Okay, Garko and Cabrera. So basically, Garko. Gotta come through here.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:41 PM EDT reply actions

I kind of like the one-run approach here. Just a little. I have to think we wouldn’t be playing for one run with JoBo closing.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:41 PM EDT reply actions

Good eye.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:42 PM EDT reply actions

9 total runs by both teams this series. Eek.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:42 PM EDT reply actions

I…

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:42 PM EDT reply actions

are you freaking kidding me?! this team can’t catch a break at all

by mpstable on Apr 20, 2008 4:43 PM EDT reply actions

Holy shit.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:43 PM EDT reply actions

Disagree, Twins announcer. I’m sure quite a few ML calibur center fielders catch that.

by ASP on Apr 20, 2008 4:43 PM EDT reply actions

Gotta give him props, he just saved the game.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 4:43 PM EDT reply actions

balls

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:43 PM EDT reply actions

According to the Twins announcers, Gomez is the only CF in the game that could have caught that.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:43 PM EDT reply actions

”... his eyesight is unbelievable”

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions

baaaaaaaaaaaalllllllllllllllllsss

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:44 PM EDT reply actions

HIRE CHOO

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:44 PM EDT reply actions

Peralta has had 7 sac bunts in prior years, only 1 last year

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 4:44 PM EDT reply actions

Is that 7 in his career or the most he’s had in a year?

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions

career

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions

7 in a season would be quite a few.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions

I look forward go Guiterrez’ reaction to the frisbee slider.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:44 PM EDT reply actions

OH COME ON

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:45 PM EDT reply actions

That [falsetto] suuuuuuuucked! [/falsetto]

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:45 PM EDT reply actions

good use of the /falsetto tag

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions

FUUUUUUUUDGE!

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:45 PM EDT reply actions

Just no luck man…

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:46 PM EDT reply actions

Can we ever catch a break

One day I'll get over to watch the Tribe play

by new zealand tribe fan on Apr 20, 2008 4:46 PM EDT reply actions

no

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions

You can do it!

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:47 PM EDT reply actions

Apparently, Franklin thought I was talking to Neshek.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions

will he walk .193 and .207 hitters to get to our
beloved..182 hitter

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 4:48 PM EDT reply actions

figures

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:48 PM EDT reply actions

Can’t complain about the at-bat, I guess.

by Pronktastic on Apr 20, 2008 4:49 PM EDT reply actions

Ah Neshek, blog off.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:49 PM EDT reply actions

I gotta go, guys’n’gals … I know you’ll keep on suffering without me.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 4:49 PM EDT reply actions

great dive by punto on the ball right at him.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:49 PM EDT reply actions

is he related to kuiper?

by mpstable on Apr 20, 2008 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions

that was Cabrera’s first career IBB (250 PA)

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 4:51 PM EDT reply actions

what can I say? he’s a threat.

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions

Nice job, Abacab.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:51 PM EDT reply actions

HEYOOOOOOOo

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:52 PM EDT reply actions

there’s your webgem.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:52 PM EDT reply actions

yep

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions

sweet leather

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 4:52 PM EDT reply actions

Nicer job, Blake!

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:52 PM EDT reply actions

Golden Glove Balke

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 4:52 PM EDT reply actions

Nice, Casey.

by amarie on Apr 20, 2008 4:52 PM EDT reply actions

Casey Blake has mad skills

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:52 PM EDT reply actions

but not at the plate, so far at least

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions

Nobody’s perfect.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions

Alright that was pretty sick.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:53 PM EDT reply actions

Where was that pitch?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:53 PM EDT reply actions

This is exhausting. What more does the game want from us?

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 4:54 PM EDT reply actions

Garko ends up on his but on 45% of plays at 1st. But that was a nice stretch.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:54 PM EDT reply actions

No doubles defence for Redmond? really?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:54 PM EDT reply actions

MLB is not for the faint hearted.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 4:54 PM EDT reply actions

redmond and monroe scare me.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 4:55 PM EDT reply actions

Monroe is the twin I most like to see at the plate. Even morse than Punto I think.

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 4:56 PM EDT up reply actions

monroe swings for the fence every time and , unlike most twinkie hitters, actually has the power to do some damage.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 5:02 PM EDT up reply actions

Monroe 1 for 13 this season against lefties.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:56 PM EDT reply actions

Cripes I’ve got work to do. End this already.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 4:56 PM EDT reply actions

Let’s do it this inning, Tribe.

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 4:57 PM EDT reply actions

Let’sgo10thinningtribe.com

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:57 PM EDT reply actions

So I’m at my parents house and when I use mlbtv it has no picture, just audio. Anybody?

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 4:57 PM EDT reply actions

try moving the window. I know it sounds weird, but mine used to do that all the time and I just had to drag the window around and it would show up

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions

It didn’t work. But it was kind of fun.

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions

Is this the first extra inning game? I think it is, but I might be nuts.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:58 PM EDT reply actions

come on Leonidas

There's always next year...and the next year...and the next year...

by HireRockyColavito on Apr 20, 2008 4:58 PM EDT reply actions

C’mon, Casey. A purty double would be so nice.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 4:59 PM EDT reply actions

Well yay.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:00 PM EDT reply actions

‘Cause historically it was fine to have CFs who couldn’t catch the ball?

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 5:01 PM EDT reply actions

The Twins are so bad. Brian Buscher? Tolbert?

I mean, we’re also bad but good lord. They play a lot of guys who aren’t major leaguers.

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:02 PM EDT reply actions

I said that all year last year. Grr.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions

HIRE GILBERT ARENAS

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 5:02 PM EDT reply actions

?

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions

After we beat him again.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions

grady’s .368 SLG suggests he’s due

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 5:02 PM EDT reply actions

Why can’t we hit Matt Guerrier again?

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:03 PM EDT reply actions

Michaels is awful… he’s due (?)

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 5:04 PM EDT reply actions

JMike is the best hitter evar!!

by darthbith on Apr 20, 2008 5:04 PM EDT reply actions

At some point this lineup is going to hit like 15 homeruns in a row right? Isn’t that how the law of averages works?

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:04 PM EDT reply actions

something like that.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions

even the TIGERS hit matt guerrier

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 5:04 PM EDT reply actions

The humanity.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:04 PM EDT reply actions

Watching Jason Michaels bat is like watching sausage being made by a legislator with a rooster-sized boil on their neck.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 5:05 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs

I cant stop laughing

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 5:07 PM EDT up reply actions

POTW if I wasn’t still busy being sick

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 5:07 PM EDT up reply actions

z

FIRE EDDIE MURRAY

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 5:05 PM EDT reply actions

Minnesotan are so pale.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:06 PM EDT reply actions

strike one.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 5:07 PM EDT reply actions

You think Shap goes home every night and thinks, “What the fuck. I try so hard to put a good lineup together and Shelton does jack shit to make them better.” This is how I picture Shapiro’s home life. Well that and crazy jungle sex with his hot wife.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:08 PM EDT reply actions

there are at least a half dozen shapiro/sex/shelton jokes to make right now, I don’t know if I can make any of the approrpriate.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 5:11 PM EDT up reply actions

This has probably been said, perhaps several times already, but pitching duels, while occasionally awesome, really suck when it’s due to terrible hitting, not necessarily good pitching. Both pitchers did well, but the combined output by these two offensive units (pun intended) blows!

by pdxtribefan on Apr 20, 2008 5:11 PM EDT reply actions

yeah, 1 run in something like 20 innings and we are talking about shitty hitting, not good pitcihng.

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions

hehe units blows

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:13 PM EDT up reply actions

Yep. Maddux v. Clemens = awesome. Byrd v. Baker = two offenses curling up into a fetal position and chewing on each other’s navel lint for 3 hours.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 5:13 PM EDT up reply actions

I feel like I’m watching Major League Undertakers or something. There’s no life.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 5:12 PM EDT reply actions

hmm….

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 5:13 PM EDT reply actions

remember that one time our left-handed pitcher almost got killed by a line drive

morneau vs. perez…part two.

sigh…

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 5:13 PM EDT reply actions

So he deflected that away from Jhonny?

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:13 PM EDT reply actions

Ah I don’t like Grady playing so deep against Kubel there. We’re really afraid of him hitting one to the warning track?

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:14 PM EDT reply actions

no sense in getting burned deep. woulda cost the game.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 5:15 PM EDT up reply actions

Make up call.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 5:14 PM EDT reply actions

You can’t give guys like Morneau opportunity after opportunity.

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:14 PM EDT reply actions

Haha that was the exact same swing.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:15 PM EDT reply actions

I know I can’t expect Jim Donovan to shut up, but SHUT UP!

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 5:15 PM EDT reply actions

In other news, I bought a khaki suit today.

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:15 PM EDT reply actions

natty!

by aufrank on Apr 20, 2008 5:16 PM EDT up reply actions

very nice, i’m thinking of getting one of those
(I won’t respond to this “baseball team” or this “game”)

by Ryan Kelsey on Apr 20, 2008 5:17 PM EDT up reply actions

I almost did the same thing today, but backed away at the last second and went with another black pinstripe instead.

by Fundamentals on Apr 20, 2008 8:00 PM EDT up reply actions

This isn’t fair to Perez. Not fair to any of the pitchers, but rolling FoS (or I) out there for another trip through the lineup is just asking too much.

by pdxtribefan on Apr 20, 2008 5:15 PM EDT reply actions

Fuck this lineup.

by maledicta on Apr 20, 2008 5:15 PM EDT reply actions

i am really starting to hate this team

by mpstable on Apr 20, 2008 5:15 PM EDT reply actions

losers.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 5:16 PM EDT reply actions

poop

by APV on Apr 20, 2008 5:16 PM EDT reply actions

I got the feeling we coulda played til dawn and not scored.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 5:16 PM EDT reply actions

turf wins it again.

by xrickx on Apr 20, 2008 5:16 PM EDT reply actions

I am out of speeches. I am speechless.

And I don’t care what ya’ll say, the Tigers are irrelevant.

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:16 PM EDT reply actions

We’ve got 4 starting pitchers who have had outstanding outings. That’s the only good thing I can say.

by Julie on Apr 20, 2008 5:17 PM EDT reply actions

Six straight series that we haven’t won!

I really need the offday tomorrow. Get my shit together and take care of some stuff around the house.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:17 PM EDT reply actions

I feel like I’m going to cry.

What’s wrong with the Indians?

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:18 PM EDT reply actions

Just miserable at-bats. Everybody seems like they’re trying to do too much, not being patient, seeming caught in the middle. Wedge could be criticized for certain things, but they’re the same things that look smart when we win, so I’m going to lay it on the hitters.

by pdxtribefan on Apr 20, 2008 5:21 PM EDT up reply actions

Yeah but…

why?

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions

I think that a lot of it is just who this team is. Group psychology is strong. When they’re down, they’re down, and I think the opposition’s pitchers can feel it and go after them successfully. When they’re hot, they’re hot and pitchers feel that and feed it with walks and mistakes. At least that’s my guess.

by pdxtribefan on Apr 20, 2008 5:25 PM EDT up reply actions

Good hitting is contagious, like they say. Even aside from group psychology, the more patient everybody is, the deeper the harder the starter works and the deeper the opposition has to go into the soft part of their bullpens, and everybody benefits. But it works the other way, too.

by Jay on Apr 20, 2008 9:56 PM EDT up reply actions

I agree. I finally looked up something I was asking about a while back - how many times has Grady led off the game and got on base. In the first 19 games this year, he has been on base in the 1st inning only 4 times. Last year, in the first 19 games, he was on base in the first inning 9 times. Grady isn’t the team’s problem, but this fits with your point - if the pitcher has any easy first inning (which most of the time has been the case this year) he settles in, doesn’t have to work as hard, and the Indians hitters are more likely to struggle (and less likely to get to hit against mediocre middle relievers).

by peter m on Apr 21, 2008 9:35 AM EDT up reply actions

FIRE HAFNER BLAKE PERALTA ASDRUBAL MICHAELS DELLUCCI WEDGE

The Disabled List just called ... it was trying to unload Joe Borowski. I offered a bagel but balked at giving up a ham sandwich.

by westbrook on Apr 20, 2008 5:19 PM EDT reply actions

wasn’t fair to Raffy P to have to face all those hitters. Fire Wedge

by ASP on Apr 20, 2008 5:19 PM EDT reply actions

Meh.

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:23 PM EDT up reply actions

Doubtful that Indians’ marketing will use highlights of this game to sell season tickets.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 5:21 PM EDT reply actions

actually if it wasn’t for the 2 stellar defensive plays we would have lost an inning earlier.

by ASP on Apr 20, 2008 5:23 PM EDT up reply actions

Those were 2 feel good minutes, werent they?

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 5:25 PM EDT up reply actions

We are now hitting .235 as a team.

We are now worst in the AL.

We are Cleveland.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:22 PM EDT reply actions

why is Wedge pitching Perez more than 2 inning?

his previous high this year was 1 1/3 (27 pitches)

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 5:26 PM EDT reply actions

Why focus on pitching mis steps? The offense was invisible.

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions

He looked great. He wanted Iron to close. No one else in the bullpen is useful. I guess he could’ve used Breslow or Lewis but I don’t fault him for staying with Raffy dealing.

It’s certainly debatable but I don’t think it’s that big of a deal. He tried to ride his 2nd best (best?) reliever. If we’re going to blamestorm, it’s all in the 1-9.

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:28 PM EDT up reply actions

Just got back after listening to the last half inning in the car. Why the hell do you even pitch to Morneau with the winning run at third?

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Apr 20, 2008 5:27 PM EDT reply actions

That’s a decent point. An IBB certainyl seems like a good idea in retrospect.

But, he got him once. I dunno.

Argh.

HIT

THE

BALL

by afh4 on Apr 20, 2008 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions

Lee is the only starter who doesn’t face the Yankees next weekend.

I hope CC gets his confidence back against KC before he goes up against NY.

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 5:31 PM EDT reply actions

If the next time Byrd pitches, someone is willing to guarantee you that Tribe pitching will allow just 2 runs, will you take that offer?

by elsandito on Apr 20, 2008 5:32 PM EDT reply actions

Wedge: no excuses for offense

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 5:33 PM EDT reply actions

I know our oranization values the level-headed approach, but at what point does someone take responsibility for the product on the field?

Only so much here can be explained by player’s slumping, just in a funk, etc. I know as fans, our natural tendency is to ask for heads to roll. But this is seriously getting ridiculous. And we can’t let this get to a point where it is a lost season.

by Pronktastic on Apr 20, 2008 5:39 PM EDT reply actions

Wedge is right, if that’ what he said. There are no excuses. So what can be done about it? There are just too many “dead spots” as I think Shapiro called them in the line up right now. They’re not getting much out of left field (Dellucci has now cooled off), Peralta looks lost and has done since the West Coast trip, Gutierrez isn’t hitting much, Cabrera has been a bit better the last couple of games, but basically isn’t hitting much, Blake is Blake, and even Grady isn’t getting those extra base hits he usually gets. That’s a lot of problems to fix. I’m glad I’m not in Wedge/Shapiro’s shoes!

They can try playing Marte (I’m not optimistic that that will be a short-term fix) or shuffle the line up, but since almost everyone is hitting poorly, it’s hard to know what to do. Not much help in Buffalo either (although I guess they could call up Barfield or Francisco and option someone like Mastny, since they don’t trust the bullpen anyway). Maybe they should let CC hit!!

by peter m on Apr 20, 2008 5:44 PM EDT reply actions

They were 10th in the AL in runs scored after the AS break last year. And they’ve been awful the first 3 weeks this year. After awhile, it’s not just a slump. It’s who you are. Now obviously, they will get better, but the days of thinking this offense can be one of the top 4-5 in the AL are over, at least for me.

As an aside, I’m going to employ a new strategy for my AL fantasy team. I’m going to pick up my league’s free agent starters that are pitching against the Tribe. If I have to watch this trash at least I’ll be able to get something out of it. First up, Brett Tomko.

by TribeJay on Apr 20, 2008 5:48 PM EDT reply actions

I did that last year for two months. Won my league hands down. I’m not even kidding.

by supermarioelia on Apr 20, 2008 5:50 PM EDT up reply actions

Brett Tomko!! Brave soul (and he is a “veteran,” not an inexperienced soft tosser or something like that).

Out of curiosity, I looked up the Indians record after 19 games in 2006: 10-9 (White Sox were 13-5). For those of you who like to worry, there’s a set of numbers to ponder!! (I still like our pitching, though, so haven’t started hitting the bottle too hard just yet.)

by peter m on Apr 20, 2008 5:54 PM EDT up reply actions

Losing a series against the Twins is inexcusable. (Assuming we get better) They are the worst team in the Central.

Really bummed, right now.

by Toxicadam on Apr 20, 2008 5:54 PM EDT reply actions

more beanballs needed.

by emil minty on Apr 20, 2008 6:09 PM EDT reply actions

Gammons giving props to Lee on Baseball Tonight pre-game show

by palcal on Apr 20, 2008 7:23 PM EDT reply actions

I haven’t perused all the comments, but has anyone pointed out the highest win probability added for a hitter was Dellucci? It was .001.

http://www.fangraphs.com/livewins.aspx?gameid=280420109

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Apr 20, 2008 9:13 PM EDT reply actions

jesus christ we suck

Sizemore-Shapiro 2008. The Official Red Bull of Let's Go Tribe Game Threads.

by Gradyforpresident on Apr 20, 2008 9:15 PM EDT reply actions

Who would have thunk Trot Nixon was the glue holding us all together?

by Toxicadam on Apr 20, 2008 9:17 PM EDT reply actions

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Apr 20, 2008 10:13 PM EDT up reply actions

It's official!

Last August and September were flukes. The real squad was the June/July tribe, as well as every other (&#@(&# Tribe team from the time Wedge took over this squad that has come out of spring training flat.

Why do I let them do this to me year after freakin’ year?

by bcollinsmn on Apr 20, 2008 9:59 PM EDT reply actions