Kansas City Royals @ Cleveland Indians GameThread, May 4, 2008 1:05 PM EDT

I posted this in macasson’s diary, but this seems like a more appropriate place.

Did anyone else read Pluto’s take on Hafner’s swing in today’s PD (or cleveland.com, linked through the Browns’ page)? Anyone think it’s legitimate?

Here’s the link. And part of the passage as a tease:

There is something wrong with Travis Hafner’s swing. The result is that he seems to be "pulling his head out." That means he’s not following the ball with his eyes. It also means that his right shoulder tends to move up—creating an uppercut swing. There are some things that he’s doing earlier in his at-bat that causes all this, but that’s the problem.

by APV on May 4, 2008 12:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

That’s what the guys on the ESPN broadcast were saying last Monday as well. He certainly doesn’t seem to recognize pitches as well as he did.

by Ryan on May 4, 2008 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I would like to see them remove the step forward from his swing. Having him step up then down in the same spot will simplify the swing and remove some movement from it.

by gahnki on May 4, 2008 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

G. Sizemore
F. Gutierrez
D. Dellucci
V. Martinez
J. Peralta
T. Hafner
R. Garko
C. Blake
A. Cabrera

by JK in CBus on May 4, 2008 12:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

free marte for fuck’s sake

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It has gotten to the point where I’ve stopped caring about him…not because I don’t think he’s talented but because there is no point in ever expecting playing time for him.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yea, I have to say that this is getting ridiculous. Marte can do no worse than Casey Blake.

Hell, all of us could do no worse at this point.

by gahnki on May 4, 2008 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The definition of insanity…. Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.

by JK in CBus on May 4, 2008 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

As desperate as Wedge appears to be to infuse life into the hitters, you’d think he’d be willing to try just about any reasonable thing. Thus, the continuing non-presence of Marte makes me think that he’s really stinking the joint up in BP and other drills. This must run deeper that just any personal misgivings; Wedge must have some evidence that makes him believe that a lineup with Marte in it is actually worse than one without him, regardless of how poorly the regulars are hitting.

by Fiddlesticks on May 4, 2008 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I really want to resist giving Wedge any more credit than we have to. He should still be playing at least once a week, fuck what he looks like in BP

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 2:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Laffey is really good sometimes.

by afh4 on May 4, 2008 1:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I like all these strikes from Laffey

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

He is classic “gets it” to me. Throw strikes, throw your best pitches, and don’t elevate the ball.

by afh4 on May 4, 2008 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

do you think it helps Laffey that we’ve got too other GB-pitchers on the staff (albeit very different in their own right)?

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Helps? How? Like they talk to him about strategy?

Maybe. I dunno. I think it’s more that the organization has a penchant for these guys and focuses on their development. Even the ones who don’t have a great sinker, like Sean Smith, have still gotten results by just pounding the zone.

by afh4 on May 4, 2008 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was thinking of both advice, but also coaches having a better sense of how to get the most out of his stuff

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kind of annoyed we are backing up the staff instead of keeping them near their normal rest.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

We continue to swing and hit like ass-fuck.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

poop

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

So I have football players that live below me. My wake up call recently has been their fucking sound system. If I go ask them to stick that system up their ass, what are the chances I get to live?

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

where at

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

My apartment complex.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

what kind of football players we talking about; pop warner, high school, college, or pro?

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

that’s what i meant

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

college. Next commercial break I’m going.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

What college?

He's extremely quick and good.

by battlekow on May 4, 2008 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nebraska. We sucked this past year. I like my chance.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

cornhuskers…I don’t know. Skill players or linemen?

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Skill players kick your butt faster

by JK in CBus on May 4, 2008 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Linemen…..

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I would ask them to stop and if they don’t then contact Mr. Pelini. Tell him I sent you.

by gahnki on May 4, 2008 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=1200&u_sid=10290975

Scroll down to the “Hot seller” part.

He's extremely quick and good.

by battlekow on May 4, 2008 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Makes little difference an NU – they’re all steroid fed lunatics. For godsakes just chill Schaf – unless you’re suicidal.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Led by Ohio State alum…....Bo Pelini.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Are you cheering for Alex Gordon?

He's extremely quick and good.

by battlekow on May 4, 2008 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Or, heaven forfend, Joba Chamberlain?

by Fiddlesticks on May 4, 2008 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I root for him to suck less then last year…but never during an Indian game. I think I’ve also mentioned my Joba thoughts a billion times.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

what college

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

what position on the team?

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

One got drafted he’s no longer there. The other moved to California. So I’m not sure who’s left.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don’t know….Sounds like you’ve got the bitter one left. I might wait this one out.

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You’re right Schaf could be British and they’re soccer players – in which case go down there Schaf and bitch slap those punks and tell ‘em next time they wake you up you’re gonna kill and eat one of ‘em.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Zero – those boys just love to hit things – especially if they’re bigger than the things the hit. My advice – sleeping pills and ear plugs

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I wearing hearing aids…..don’t wear them when I sleep and they still woke me up. Ear plugs aren’t going to work.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i seriously love aaron laffey

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 1:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I like your old-school plain-C hats. Is that just a one-game thing?

He's extremely quick and good.

by battlekow on May 4, 2008 1:23 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Weekend alternates.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Laffey’s awesome

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

dude laffey is the best

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 1:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

going out to eat let’s go tribe

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 1:26 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

www.letsgoouttoeattribe.com

by afh4 on May 4, 2008 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow, Aaron.

by afh4 on May 4, 2008 1:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Atom Miller’s pitching for Buffalo today. 2 Ks (both swinging) in the 1st.

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

How long until he comes up to be a set up guy? Or am I dreaming?

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s possible, but my guess not until mid-June at the earliest.

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Our bullpen scares me.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’d be more afraid of the Cornhuskers OL if I were you.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I should be able to get around them. Everyone else did.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

www.instantrimshot.com

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You’re dreamin’ – now wake up or do I hafta get a coupla OL to go upstairs and wake you up?

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m good at curling up into a ball….

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just don’t let them call the “fumblerooski” on you

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I heart Victor

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

line out? hard?

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

by Gradyforpresident on May 4, 2008 1:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah right at 1b.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

11 pitch lineout, too

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Jhonny won’t spend as much time…...ground out to 3B

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

What is “the Cabrera question”?

He's extremely quick and good.

by battlekow on May 4, 2008 1:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Is everyone of the offensive players except Victor and Grady tradeable?

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Asdrubal seems not tradeable

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I despise this fact.

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don’t….I’ll take his defense even while his offense is struggling. And I think his offense will come back around.

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I know, I think I’m in the minority here, we discussed this at length in the offseason, especially with Haren rumors. I really like his defense, but I don’t see how he is going to approach “non-tradeable” status with that swing.

by DaytonDogg on May 5, 2008 1:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Leaving aside your apparently obtuse evaluation of AbaCab as player (or prospect), you seem to be under the impression that we have other great 2B/SS options for 2009-2013. Maybe you could identify them for me, because I have no idea who they are. Our best middle infield prospects, in no particular order, are:

• Josh Rodriguez, marginal defense at SS and expected to move to 2B, a year older than AbaCab and (so far) putting up poorer numbers in Akron at 23 than AbaCab did at 21.
Carlos Rivero, will turn 20 in a couple weeks, standout defender at SS but not explosive with the bat, if he can get as far as AbaCab did by age 21 next season, that will be good news.
Jared Goedert, will turn 23 later this month and is a bit old for Kinston, decent 2B but may eventually move to 3B if his bat allows, some injury problems, frankly looking a bit like the next Joe Inglett at the moment.

I’m about as big of a Peralta guy as there is around here, but I can’t say he’s necessarily the answer beyond our 2011 club option. And as fringy as Peralta’s defense is at SS, Barfield’s isn’t much better at 2B, and his bat is fringy at any position.

So AbaCab is more or less untradeable because if he were at Buffalo right now, he would be considered by far both our best and our closest prospect for the middle infield, and especially for shortstop, and we do not have great depth overall at these positions.

by Jay on May 5, 2008 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I totally agree with you. Like I said originally, I don’t like that Asdrubal is untradeable, but he is because of our lack of organizational depth at middle IF. But leaving aside relative value to position, I don’t think he is a good hitter, and I don’t like that a below average hitter is untradeable.

by DaytonDogg on May 5, 2008 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No way in hell anybody’d trade for Hafner and his contract – no way.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Call from Mr. Bavasi, line one…

by odradek on May 4, 2008 6:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Again, if Mike Hampton and his contract could get traded - with six years and $84.5 million left on his deal - anything is possible. Colorado ate 43% of the contract - some of it indirectly, by taking on two smaller bad contracts from the Marlins - but Atlanta agreed to take on the other 57%—$48.5 million over six years.

Hafner will still be owed $51.75 at the end of 2008, and 57% of that is about $29.5 million. Some team could buy low on Hafner, committing that much money over four years with a fifth-year option, betting essentially that he can turn it around. With the amount of money floating around MLB, don’t be surprised if some team was willing to do that.

After all, Hampton certainly wasn’t any more impressive in his pre-collapse years than Hafner was in his.

by Jay on May 4, 2008 10:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m really bitter today.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s the sleep deprevation dude – you’ll be fine as soon as those guys move or you do.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not till August…./drink

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Laffey continues to baffle me. I keep expecting him to get torched and he keeps telling me to fuck off.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Laffey’s en fuego

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Lord Kelvin’s line so far today in Lake County: 3IP, 0H, 0R, 0BB, 4Ks

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

boo

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Victor just got rocked.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:42 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Victor is invincable.

by afh4 on May 4, 2008 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Laffey…the best 7th starter in baseball

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:45 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Every time I think that the Tribe has the worst offense in the ML all I gotta do is look at Tony Pena Jr.’s numbers. Wow, he’s bad!

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:46 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

At least we are pitching really well as of late….

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

...and there was much rejoicing…

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

My boy Garko still still handle that belt high fastball.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

So how much longer before Shap sends AstrCab to Buffalo?

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Carroll start or Barf?

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Carroll with a trade for a back-up.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why, what’s the better option?

by JK in CBus on May 4, 2008 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Right now your sister Eileen is a better option than AstroCab.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You’re fast becoming the most vehement Tribe-bashing guy I know.

by Fiddlesticks on May 4, 2008 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I ain’t bashin’ but you better believe some heads are gonna roll soon. Right now JMike and AstroCab are two of the top candidates.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They’re situations aren’t comparable. JMike should go wayyyyyy before Astro Cab. Give Cabrera the month of May. If he isn’t showing signs of recovering his bat then you can talk about AAA.

by Joe. on May 4, 2008 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Put’in her to work eh?

by JK in CBus on May 4, 2008 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s April.

by Joe. on May 4, 2008 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Durrrr…..early May but you get the point!

by Joe. on May 4, 2008 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s May.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Casey no beard sucks more than Casey beard.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

agreed

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I mean…can’t he at least start throwing around some pies?

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I feel a Grady sizing up a shot here against Meche.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

size: small

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

that did not look like a good swing from ‘droob

by APV on May 4, 2008 1:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I remember awhile ago I said I liked pitchers duels…........boy did I put my foot in my mouth.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 1:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

This is also between two bad offenses. It’s a lot more exciting when two pitchers are dealing against good offenses.

by ahowie on May 4, 2008 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I love me some of that LaffeyTaffy.

by Joe. on May 4, 2008 1:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Well hit ball….....and its caught.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

melky cabrera would now be leading the indians in home runs

by emil minty on May 4, 2008 2:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Victor with a single. Ugly dive by Gordon.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:06 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

ITS THE KANSAS CITY ROYALS…......YOU OVERRATED PIECES OF SHIT. LETS FUCKING GO.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:08 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Is it me or does Jim Donovan suck as a baseball announcer? And didn’t he mess up the Julio chant?

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Not sure if this has been posted but:

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ap-royals-bale&prov=ap&type=lgns

by gahnki on May 4, 2008 2:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

“Ironically, Bale was making progress with his shoulder problem and it was hoped he would come off the DL in the next few days”

That’s my favorite line.

by gahnki on May 4, 2008 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

There it goes.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

cancel the postgame show

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

by HireRockyColavito on May 4, 2008 2:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Royals announcers are impressed by Sabathia’s media savy comments.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

you have got to be kidding me

by ahowie on May 4, 2008 2:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Casey Blake just wants to be loved

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 2:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

What the fuck

Tribe fan from far, far away

by LGT Patrick on May 4, 2008 2:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on May 4, 2008 2:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Casey Blake…the time is now for you to injure yourself in a home accident

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

maybe a bad spider bite…fall off of a ladder…broken glass…whatever it takes

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is this the second game in a row that Laffey has been hurt by a Blake error? Or am I thinking of another game?

by Pronktastic on May 4, 2008 2:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Several of the Yankees hits in the 4-run 6th last Monday were infield hits to third – not sure that Blake had a good play on any of them, IIRC, but that’s probably what you’re thinking of.

O/c there’s also his butchering of Vic’s throw against SEA

by DaveE on May 4, 2008 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, probably just me projecting all the team’s problems on Blake

by Pronktastic on May 4, 2008 2:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why is he playing?

by afh4 on May 4, 2008 2:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

a weird tourette’s syndrome-like tick on Wedge’s behalf?

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m not even sure why I bother watching a game anymore.

Constants of the 2008 Indians

Bats don’t work
Casey can’t field
Skinner will run us out of any big innings
Bullpen sucks
Jesus hates me
I cry

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:22 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Should have been a scoreless inning. I’m sick of this guy. Like “I don’t want to watch if he’s playing” sick of him

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 2:22 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

well. I was doing a good job of staying away in Laffey superstition … but DAMN IT CASEY. Wedge keeps trottin’ him out there. And he continues to suck.

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

by westbrook on May 4, 2008 2:23 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

If I had a kid, he/she’d say to me right now,

“Daddy, why does that guy with the chin make you sad?”

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:23 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

So is it official now that Aaron Laffey has the worst luck of any major league player?

by ahowie on May 4, 2008 2:23 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

No. Bad luck is not the equivalent of Casey Blake playing 3B. Thats just fate.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

we’ll know for sure if during interleague play “Born Under a Bad Sign” comes on when he’s up at bat…

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The best part is the fuck bag gets to come up and strike out.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Their third-baseman is having fielding issues as well.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on May 4, 2008 2:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

How in the world is that not an error?

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

bad bounce….not the fielder’s fault (?)

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I might just assume every ball hit to third base might be an error though.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Detroit puts up 4-spot in 1st at Minn

by palcal on May 4, 2008 2:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

At least Casey swung and hit the ball hard that time.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on May 4, 2008 2:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Let’s Go Tribe! Cautiously optimistic….or determinedly pessimistic?

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Completely bitter…..

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Rioting in the public square with torches and pitchforks.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on May 4, 2008 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Things have turned very bad for Atom Miller…but he’s getting Ks and groundouts

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

That was good defense, for purposes of contrast

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 2:36 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Lets bunt.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:44 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Then Dellucci can strike out.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Christ this offense is bad enough without giving away a third of an inning.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on May 4, 2008 2:45 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Remember when the worst batter in our lineup was Omar Vizquel? That was fun.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on May 4, 2008 2:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah it was…especially when he hit .330

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And our best pitcher was Nagy

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

that wasn’t as much fun

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

A different kind of fun.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on May 4, 2008 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I suppose so. And that fun was more consistent with my Nintendo/Atari/AppleIIe childhood

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Looch is changing it up – this time he flies out to right instead of left.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on May 4, 2008 2:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Walk Martinez and pitch to JP….

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Why any team would pitch to Victor Martinez with a base open is amazing to me.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on May 4, 2008 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Royals fan roommate seems disturbed.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

runny poop

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

.......................fuck…..............

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Indians are 2nd in AL (to Texas) in sac bunts

by palcal on May 4, 2008 2:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Texas? What am I missing there?

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Texas can’t win either.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on May 4, 2008 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Offense has to be better than ours.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

9 homeless people they find outside the stadium can hit better than us

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

by HireRockyColavito on May 4, 2008 2:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Laffey still looks good

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Jim Donovan please go away until the Browns season begins

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

L-K-A-K-F-K-F-K-E-K-Y

by APV on May 4, 2008 2:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Just what this game needed, moar infield hits

by ahowie on May 4, 2008 2:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

put on the lotion and place it in the bucket!

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

time to noun this noun-ing game and hit the noun-ing snot out of the noun noun ball, for noun’s sake

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I noun-ing agree.

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

noun-yeah!

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ben’s 10 days in Buffalo are up Tuesday

by palcal on May 4, 2008 3:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Ross Gload defensive replacement at 1st

by palcal on May 4, 2008 3:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Jhonny with a decent at bat…..or prolonging the inevitable.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

inevitable.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’ll go with #2 Mr. Trebeck!

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmm I’m Pat Sajack.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

What you wanna be a right-winged asshole?

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have a really big fake smile. Who can’t love me?

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Travis Hafner’s lost mojo

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

See this is all very nostaglic to me – brings me back to my early adolescents – when the Indians really sucked donkey balls.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 3:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Marte could do as well as Hafner

by palcal on May 4, 2008 3:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

:-( Emoticons make me sad

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I’m done with any expectations.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I say we just bring up the whole Lake County team for a series. They’re all pretty old anyway, and it likely doesn’t matter when their option clocks get started. Let’s just put the whole team on the DL (posiiton players, that is), bring up the Captains, and see what happens.

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:09 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs

indiansfan, for one, would be excited

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I see what you did there.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

keep on rolling over on balls, team. this is the most pathetic offensive perormance i’ve ever seen. meche isn’t even dominating.

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

by westbrook on May 4, 2008 3:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Royals announcers state otherwise..

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

kobayashi seems to pitch in every game these days, no?

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Might as well. Give him experience in games we are behind.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

he’s the setup guy but there is nothing to setup

by palcal on May 4, 2008 3:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

so basically our pitching staff must have a collective ERA of 0.00 for us to even have a chance of winning

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

by HireRockyColavito on May 4, 2008 3:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

and with defense like today, that might not be enough.

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Chef Jimmy, give it back!!

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

ugh our defense is trying to compete with the craptasticness of our offense

by ahowie on May 4, 2008 3:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Laffey’s 0.00 today is looking like a loser

by palcal on May 4, 2008 3:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

No defense, long streches without offense and the occasional outburst…..it feels like 06 with a slightly better bullpen, maybe.

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 3:15 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

and ESPN picked us to win the world series this year?

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

by HireRockyColavito on May 4, 2008 3:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Picked the Tigers last year. should have known it was bad.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

dayton

reggina won this morning. I woke up and was shocked as I followed the game on ESPN Italia. Big upset I guess.

by gahnki on May 4, 2008 3:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I saw that, not good for Catania, bad loss at home.

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Found on the team bus:

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

POTuniverise

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

by joeee on May 4, 2008 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

universe, wow.

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

by joeee on May 4, 2008 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good news: After today,. we’re only 9 games away from the magic 40! Then we’ll know for sure our offense is terrible.

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 3:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Watch the hitting pick up slightly around then.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s just time to mix it up. Shoppach behind the plate for a few days, Vic at 1B, Marte at 3B, and Mastny works the 8th inning.

Just kidding about the last part.

by xrickx on May 4, 2008 3:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Sabathia in the 2-hole?

by baergagaga on May 4, 2008 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

depends on his ability to drop the sac bunt

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

hafner working the concession stand?

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

by HireRockyColavito on May 4, 2008 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Never thought I’d look forward to pitchers hitting…...

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

poop on poop with a poop sauce covered in poop flakes

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Wow. Guys. Wow.

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

What is Barfield doing in Buffalo??

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:22 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

kind of sucking

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

.248/.302/.402

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That many walks? Wow.

by Pronktastic on May 4, 2008 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Note I don’t consider that good, but I expect a .10 separation between BA and OBP for Barfield.

by Pronktastic on May 4, 2008 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

8 walks, 27 Ks

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hm, we do need a middle of the order hitter, that might do it.

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

that at bat sums a lot of shit up

Tribe fan from far, far away

by LGT Patrick on May 4, 2008 3:22 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

victor martinez’ average is about 10 points lower than casey blake’s slugging percentage.

by xrickx on May 4, 2008 3:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

It’s starting to look like we need another overreaction thread. We’re about to get swept by KC. (Yeah, two game series, but so what?)

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on May 4, 2008 3:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Are you kidding? The middle of our lineup is coming up….

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

on the bright side, adam miller gave up 10 hits in 3.2 innings today for buffalo.

by xrickx on May 4, 2008 3:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

but on the actual bright side, he K’ed 4 and only walked 1. And all 7 of his in play outs were ground balls. He got unlucky and had some bad defense.

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

not saying he was great…but he wasn’t as bad as the numbers might suggest

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i didn’t watch the start, so i can’t contest to how hard the balls were struck. but 10 hits in under 4 innings is…impressive.

by xrickx on May 4, 2008 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

2 2bs, 8 singles…not the hardest hit of balls.

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Perez

by palcal on May 4, 2008 3:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Too bad neither Mastny or Breslow are on the roster huh?

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Too bad neither of them have the first name, “Raffie”. Maybe they should look into making a change….

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

well, we can’t give up. This is still a one run game, and who knows, maybe Soria’s arm will fall off and some other guy will come in and promptly throw 16 straight balls. We can win this! or at least tie.

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

At this point, I think Breslow Mastny and Perez are all turning in roughly equivalent performances. And as the last Mastny/Breslow outings proved, they need semi-regular work to be effective.

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

In conclusion, I don’t feel using either Mastny or Breslow would be “giving up” I feel like it would be “managing.”

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

To continue this one-sided conversation, last year the COT was all cute and shit cause we won 96 games and all the COT members were almost flawless down the stretch. This year is feeling different. Like the overreliance on Raffies could doom them.

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I kinda agree. Except I don’t think Mastny and Breslow can even perform at shitty-Perez levels. If this game was 4-0, I would want them coming in, but not 1-0.

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Point taken. And it’s all moot now anyway. Mastny for closer!

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m cracking up reading this thread guys. In public. Love APV’s LC Captains comp. Chuck’s nostalgia; I feel that a little too. Lots of excellence.

I’m rooting for humor at this point,

by jhon on May 4, 2008 3:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I’m a little drunk and in Amsterdam…

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have got to imagine there’s more entertaining things for you to be doing than watch the Indians move our mood meter to 1.7

by NickFantana on May 4, 2008 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

There probably are, and when I was here 8 years ago I’m sure I did some of them. But now I’m old(er) and staying with my brother’s family including two little nieces. This is plenty of fun at the moment.

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

A Ha! I thought you were drunk. How’s the Dutch national squad look? Hire their 3rd basemen. Hire their best bat. Hire their fucking hitting coach.

by jhon on May 4, 2008 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Here APV this if for you. I couldn’t find a video so this will hafta do.

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is for you APV – Oof!

"the most vehement Yankee-hating guy I know" - Jay

by mauichuck on May 4, 2008 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Chuck,
I say, “when in Rome, do as the Romans. When in Amsterdam….damn!”

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hodges just his a 3-run shot in Akron

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Shit. Call him up. What the hell?!11

by jhon on May 4, 2008 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let’s Go Tribe!!!

by APV on May 4, 2008 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

What in the world are we taking out Perez for?

by mjschaefer on May 4, 2008 3:33 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Has Perez been demoted to LOOGY?

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

nope – demoted to “MIKE MYERS”

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

by westbrook on May 4, 2008 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

hey! its our micromanager!

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

by westbrook on May 4, 2008 3:33 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I’m visualizing a 2 foot version of Wedge scurrying out of the dugout to take the ball from Perez. He has to hold the ball with both arms.

by DaytonDogg on May 4, 2008 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

seagulls invading

by palcal on May 4, 2008 3:33 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I want people fired

by ASP on May 4, 2008 3:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

i want baseball fired.

FIRE 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. It wanted to keep Westbrook.

by westbrook on May 4, 2008 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs