Cleveland Indians @ Minnesota Twins GameThread, Jul 6, 2008 2:10 PM EDT

Game Thread: July 6, 2008

by Ryan on Jul 6, 2008 1:46 PM EDT in Game Threads Comment 263 comments

Cleveland Indians @ Minnesota Twins

Cleveland at Minnesota, 2:10 PM (STO)

0 recs | Comment 263 comments

Story-email Email Printer Print

Read More: Yahoo! Box Score(Yahoo! Sports), B-Ref Matchup(Baseball-Reference)

Comments

Gameday says Marte is back in there.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 1:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Yep, Blake at first, Marte at third, Gutierrez in right. Nice defense.

by Ryan on Jul 6, 2008 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Any statement about Garko’s continuing absence?

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh…I see he’s DH’ing. Maybe we’re showcasing Blake’s versatility.

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think it’s part Blake showcase, part Marte tryout, part Garko disappointment.

by Ryan on Jul 6, 2008 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Throw in one or two parts bourbon and it sounds like a tasty Sunday cocktail

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I like this lineup more than any other we’ve had since losing Droob and VMart.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

sizemore…showing his power

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:11 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Nothing like setting the table for Ben Francisco.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

taking advantage of 2 bunts

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 2:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

That Carroll 1st pitch bunt was one of the dumbest things I’ve seen all year. Instead of a potential 8-10 pitch AB, it’s 1 and accomplishes next to nothing.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

this Wimbledon final is intense

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

so quiet

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Its been great to watch. I’m pulling for Federer, but just doesn’t feel like it right now. I hope I’m wrong.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i’m with you…but it’s anyone’s match now going into the 5th set

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m cheering for Nadal. But both these guys are just awesome to watch (but really only when they are playing eachother.. too dominant otherwise.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Djokovic is climbing into that territory with them, just not quite there yet. Plus, I think tennis is better with the two dominant figures.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Who’s this Shoppach guy?

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:26 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Someone’s 2009 starting catcher. Maybe ours?

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Shoppach rounding into form.

The Twins announcers are intolerable. They are lamenting how Garko hasn’t filled in for Hafner’s missing power.

Really? ou cover the AL Central?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Well, he hit 20 HR’s last year .. that means he should hit 40 this year!

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

My problem is this constant assertion that Hafner’s production is something that’s missed.

Have they watched the last 1 and a half seasons?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ok…this Wimbledon is good

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

adding…I know tennis can be kind of lame. but this is good stuff

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah, this is pretty awesome.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

saw 5 minutes. its better than golf. i won’t go any further than that.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i like golf better.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can watch the final round of major championships…but I have a hard time going further than that.

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I like anesthetic-free hemmorhoid surgery better than either golf or tennis.

Resident LGT beer kinda sewer

by mauichuck on Jul 6, 2008 9:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

you would know about that better than most of us, I would think

by APV on Jul 7, 2008 9:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Marte being Marte.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Ken Rosenthal says Dodgers out of the mix for Sabathia

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

The Los Angeles Dodgers are out of the running for C.C. Sabathia, according to a major-league source, an indication that the Milwaukee Brewers may be nearing a trade for the Indians’ left hander.
What

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

boo. Are we still thinking something is announced today?

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Its really beginning to feel that way to me.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yes…I think so. Maybe with details worked out tomorrow. But I think today is the day and I think the Brewers will get him. They’ve been my favorite partner the whole time.

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It seems that if it doesn’t happen today or tomorrow the terms of the deal change considerably. As the number of starts a team can get out of CC changes, so does the package.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

agreed

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It makes the most sense, that way CC can travel on Monday and be pitching on Tuesday.

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

This Cliff Lee guy…still really really good, huh?

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

SIZEMORE’S NUMBERS ARE NOT DOWN DICK BREMER.

freaking asshole.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

well it’s true, he has played in just 85 games this season.

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

that’s way down from his 162 the previous two seasons

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i mean, he’s leading the damn league in home runs. jesus people are dumb.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Chase Utley’s #s are down too.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m down with Sizemore’s numbers.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Update from Olney: Brewers “restructuring” offer to Cleveland, still centered on LaPorta

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

HOORAY ESPN VOTERS
Who should be the American League’s starting second baseman?
42.3% Ian Kinsler
26.0% Dustin Pedroia
10.0% Placido Polanco
7.9% Brian Roberts
4.4% Mark Grudzielanek

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:42 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

By far, the biggest slight in All Star balloting.

Hell, I’d rather have Ian Kinsler on my team than Josh Hamilton.

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

did kinsler not make the team? are you serious?

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He’ll make the team. He’s just not starting.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Id that for sure thing? Especially with Hamilton/Bradley already on the team.

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess it’s not a sure thing but it’s going to be pretty hard to keep him off. Who knows.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

kinsler made it. reserves are up. see link below

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

haven’t announced the reserves yet, Pedroia is the starter.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hegan says Ludwick made it. Donno if its a starter or not.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

ESPN voters > All Star voters

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

except for this

62.6% Josh Hamilton
26.0% Manny Ramirez
25.2% Carlos Quentin
22.6% J.D. Drew
22.5% Grady Sizemore

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah ,but that probably is better than the All Star vote was.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

probably.

i picked hamilton quentin and grady.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

http://cleveland.indians.mlb.com/mlb/events/all_star/y2008/roster_league.jsp

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Man, Tennis, Indians, All Star Selection, Reds game, CC updates… turned into a good sports day… I’m on overload.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:46 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

do people really care about All-Star selections?

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

absolutely.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i hate to say it, but the NL team looks better

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 2:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Soto deserved that spot over mccann. No idea why he wasn’t leading when they showed it on fox.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

bummer. the indians won’t have home field advantage in the world series this year

The Cleveland Indians: Minor League Farm Team Affiliate of the MLB

by HireRockyColavito on Jul 6, 2008 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs

Man, Ben Francisco is batting something like .200 over the past month. Terrible sign.

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 2:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Derek Shelton, working his mojo.

I did a Google image search for "Andy Marte." It turned up zero results.

by emd2k3 on Jul 6, 2008 10:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

UGH

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 2:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Peralta should have two RBI today. Can’t fault him.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 2:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

how in the name of all that is holy can you not fault a guy for hitting like stephen hawking with runners in scoring position?

The Cleveland Indians: Minor League Farm Team Affiliate of the MLB

by HireRockyColavito on Jul 6, 2008 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Jhonny has hit two balls hard.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

That sucked.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 2:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

ugh…2nd rain delay in London

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

You know Cliff Lee is pitching?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I believe you mean “the Buffalo Bison formerly known as Cliff Lee”

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 2:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah I’m pissed….this match is quite exciting.

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kliff

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Got hosed there.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 2:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Eric Wedge, employing his highly effective argument style.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 2:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I do find it pretty incredible that Cliff Lee is now entering his 4th consecutive month pitching this well

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Cliff Lee antagonizing Carlos Gomez. Hahahahahaha.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Who was arguing there with Gomez, and about what? Watching without sound.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Unclear what but Cliff and Gomez. Apparently regarding a 2 strike bunt attempt?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

fukodome is stealing a spot on that NL squad though.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 3:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

from Pat Burrell, I think. Couple guys got really robbed: Phillips, Reyes, Wright, Burrell, Longoria, Dye

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

although with injuries and the fan vote, a couple of those guys will make it in.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, he’s got a high OBP but not much power. Burrell should definately be on the team, he leads NL outfielders in OPS.

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think we missed the high-water mark time to trade Blake. Sell Sell Sell!

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 3:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

what does it mean to “line out softly”

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:08 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

something between a “weak fly ball” and a “line shot”

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

also known as a “looping liner”

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anyone looked at those stupid Statues on Parade? If you thought Chief Wahoo was offensive on a baseball cap, wait til you see him on the Statue of Liberty.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Am I the only one who thinks Joe Mauer is overrated?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

no, you’re not

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i think he is properly-rated. Top 5, probably top 3 catcher in all of baseball for the last 5 years.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I kind of think he’s underrated. Handles the bat extremely well, has a little pop, can run a little, is an absolute beast on defense. And he’s 25.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

is the defense thing true?

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He’s thrown out 41.5% of would be basestealers in his career. He’s the new pudge.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, to echo APV, I think the defense is a little overstated.

That said, I think I’m just inclined to dislike high average low power guys. They’re boring.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

what are you, unamerican?

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Isn’t power American?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yes, but so is cheering for David Eckstein. Being American is a complex endeavor.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Whereas if you’re French you only have to cheer for Juan Pierre.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was once Dutch. Andy Van Slyke was the bomb.

I did a Google image search for "Andy Marte." It turned up zero results.

by emd2k3 on Jul 6, 2008 10:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But aren’t those the guys that “play the game the right way.” Especially if they bunt a lot and get their uniform dirty.

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Other than Vic though, what catcher is better in the AL?

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Navarro in TB is going to put his name up there with the second half he had last year and the year he’s having this year. He’s a stud.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah, we are spoiled- i bet there are only 4 or 5 players in any given year that will OPS+ over 100 and catch over 125 games.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

If Jeff Clement can rake like he has in the minors lately, he could be pretty good.

Have no idea about his D, though.

I did a Google image search for "Andy Marte." It turned up zero results.

by emd2k3 on Jul 6, 2008 10:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

FYI, Huntsville (Milwaukee’s AA team) plays tonight at 6:05. It’ll be interesting to see their lineup.

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Green and Cain are both in the lineup for Brevard County (Brewers A+)

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Quick poll:

Cheez-it’s or Goldfish?

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:22 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I love Goldfish, but I’m eating Cheez-it’s right now and they are wonderful

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

in case it wasn’t clear, my vote is golfish

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Goldfish. Cheez-Its are too salty.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cheez-Its.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cheez-it’s. Much better flavor, esp. the White Cheddar ones.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gold-it’s; Cheezfish? I don’t know, its a push for me.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I love Cheez-its.

Actually, right now I’m eating Cheez-it Twisterz—cheddar and more cheddar. They’re absolutely AMAZING! If you love cheese crackers, these are the best.

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

There’s a shocking number of people eating cheese crackers right now. I’m eating Triscuits with Laughing Cow cheese spread.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cheez its
Goldfish
Twister ones

in that order.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No way, Cheez-it Twisterz are the food of the gods. What was the name—ambrosia?

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

goldfish

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mmm left over ice cream cake.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Cliff Lee is unbelievable.

It’s like Josh Hamilton except without any drugs.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

We hope.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

seriously, can we name the come-back player of the year award for him?

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yes…he’s been awesome

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

if you had told me that going into the All-Star break we’d have two of the leading contenders for the Cy Young, and that they’d be Lee and Sabathia, but that we were in last place…I would have assumed the team had a plane/bus crash

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

we did. Hafner, Martinez, Westbrook, Carmona and Barfield were all on the bus.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And by Barfield you mean Cabrera.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No. That was a separate accident. Cabrera wrecked his bike, crashing it into the bullpen. Garko was riding on the handle bars.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And also, had a lot of dynamite in the bike basket, injuring JoBo, Raffy R, and Jensen.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Do you think being on a last-place club will prevent Lee from winning a Cy Young award?

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 3:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

unless he’s WAY ahead of the other contenders, yes

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes. The writers focus too much on team performance (although probably moreso for MVP than Cy Young).

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Back playing again in London… Missed a point, but not much else, luckily.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 3:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

thanks for the reminder.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks for the update. Go Federer!

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pulling for Federer – can’t stand the grunting by Nadal.

by IndyDave on Jul 6, 2008 3:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Jhonny!

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 3:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

JHONNY!!!!!!!!

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Fhuture Dhodger?

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I really hope not. I think it would impossible to get fair value for him in a trade.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So underrated

by Roger Dorn on Jul 6, 2008 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Agreed. It’s shocking the amount of hate for him among Indians fans.

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No hatred here. Just occasional frustration.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh, I didn’t mean on this site. Most people here realize his value (along with the occasional frustration). I meant on other places I read (cleveland.com, swerb’s blurbs, etc.)

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That’s definitely true.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don’t know. His OBP is awful and his range is pretty bad at short.

He probably has better value at DH if we had one other capable middle infielder.

I did a Google image search for "Andy Marte." It turned up zero results.

by emd2k3 on Jul 6, 2008 10:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hhey Hhey!

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Jhonny!!!!

/hope Ned Colletti was watching

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Jhonny!!!!

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

by new zealand tribe fan on Jul 6, 2008 3:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Jhonny is going to accidentally hit 60 homeruns one year.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

And won’t realize he did it until early November.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

and knock in at least….75 rbi

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Jhonny playing damn well as of late.

by mjschaefer on Jul 6, 2008 3:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Glen Perkins looks like a farmer.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:36 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Jeff Suppan not exactly making the Brewers confident with their rotation.

by cheech99 on Jul 6, 2008 3:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Kliff

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 3:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Just think of all the prospects we can get by trading Cliff too.

Lets trade everyone. Save Blake.

by mjschaefer on Jul 6, 2008 3:43 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

-1

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kliff.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:45 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Killer Kurve.

LGT's resident beer connaisseur.

by LGT Patrick on Jul 6, 2008 3:45 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I was told Andy Marte was hot.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Let's Go Tribe!

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 3:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

ugh.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I just watched the original Kubrick version of “Lolita” last night.

/shudders

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sue Lyon was young, but not that young.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOSING TRAVIS HAFNER HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH IT

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 3:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

What are you yelling about?

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 3:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Commentators insistence that one of Cleveland’s big problems is Hafner’s injuries.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

How about Hafner’s ineffectiveness?

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’d say that’s a minor problem. Not even in the top 8 problems, probably.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

If Hafner’s ineffectiveness was caused by his injuries (a real possibility), I would put it up there with bullpen trouble as our top problems.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Opposing commentators constantly saying “This team is in trouble because Hafner is not in the lineup” is ill-informed and wrong. This team won with a bad Travis Hafner a year ago. Hafner is no longer even close to one of the most important players on this team.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

you are very wrong, in my opinion. “Bad” Travis Hafner still OPS+’d at 118, that would be good for second best on the team right now. He is by far the farthest away from career numbers and reasonable expectations compared with anyone else on this team.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And speaking of 118 …

We got 257 TB and 103 walks out of the DH spot last season — that’s about 2.22 bases per game.

This year, it’s 102 TB and 29 walks — about 1.49 bases per game.

Take the difference, multiply by 162 games, and you get … 118 total bases, drop off from 2007 to 2008.

Bases aren’t runs, of course, but I would still say that is a very significant problem.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We are talking past each other.

The point is that Hafner falling off totally and going on the DL was unexpected but not crippling. It was the domino effect of literally every possible replacement being terrible that was crippling.

And, more to my point, opposing teams talk about Hafner missing as the key point to the season. In actuality, if this team had held together it would’ve been relatively easy to fix the DH problem through a trade. But this team didn’t hold together. Much larger problems than DH were:

1-All corner OFs.
2-Bullpen.
3-Fausto
4-Jake
5-Vic
6-The entire IF being bad for the first three months

To state another way, opposing commentators constantly act like this team requires greatness from Hafner to succeed. That’s assinine. It requires barely medocrity from a combination of Hafner and a passle of other guys.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 5:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Another way of viewing this: if all the bad things enumerated above had happened and Hafner was in 2007 (or even 2006?) form, would the Indians still suck?

There are those dominos again.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

How is it that the corner OF problems were worse than, or even distinct from, the loss of a productive Hafner?

You have about 19 key positions on the roster — five in the rotation, nine everyday players, maybe one key bench guy and four relievers. One of those key positions is DH, and we have done about as badly at that position — and have suffered as much of a dropoff from expectations — as from any position on the roster. It probably is our second-worst performing position this season, compared with expectations, trailing only “main setup guy,” and not by much.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 6:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe what I’m trying to communicate is that I agree that zero DH contributions have hurt the season. But I don’t agree that Hafner missing time should have decimated the Indians’ lineup.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well of course not. But his lack of contribution has been as big of a problem as any other one player or position, and Hafner is way more famous than those other guys.

You seem tense. Were you unhappy with how your Sabathia piece turned out? I thought it was good.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 6:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m happy with it. I just hate Dick Bremer.

My larger issue is the media at large’s insistence on acting like Hafner, were he healthy, would be 2006 Hafner.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 6:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So maybe we should take Hardy, if available.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 3:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Federer/Nadal tied 6-6 in the fifth set. No tiebraker in the final set, so they’ll keep playing until someone wins by 2.

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 3:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Is there a curfew?

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

darkness will be the curfew – probably about 15 to 20 minutes more

by IndyDave on Jul 6, 2008 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

light will probably end it in 30 minutes…to be continued Monday

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

meant as a reply to fundamentals above

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sabathia’s last home start in Milwaukee: W, 7 IP, 1 ER, 10 H, 7K

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 3:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

PAR TAY … half good.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

LETS GO CLIFTON

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Let’s Go Wimbledon Final….wow

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Best tennis I’ve ever seen. WOW!

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

epic tennis match going on right now.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 4:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

that last rally was fun

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We;re not even gonna win this game.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I hate Dick Bremer. A lot.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

So apparently Wedge is watching Wimbledon, also

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Post-game press conference:

“Yeah…I suppose I could have taken Lee out back there in the 7th. But it was 7-7 in the 5th set at the time. Frankly, I just didn’t notice. My bad.”

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’d stay away from the bullpen too. Cliff Lee put on a bunch of guys who have no business being on base. It’s a shame, bc he had this game won.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lee in tight 7th-inning spot is still better than most of our relievers … possibly all of them.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nadal just broke Federer—it’s almost over.

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 4:11 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

What channel is tennis on?

LGT's resident beer connaisseur.

by LGT Patrick on Jul 6, 2008 4:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

NBC

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

nbc

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

NBC

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

NBC

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Jul 6, 2008 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

NBC

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 4:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It might be on NBC

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

for about 5 more minutes

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can’t wait. Although with my luck, tennis will be followed by another Cavaliers game.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 4:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sky Sport One

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

by new zealand tribe fan on Jul 6, 2008 4:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

For those of you watching Wimbledon, the Twinkies have just taken a 4-3 lead in the 7th.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Jul 6, 2008 4:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Federer does not even appear to be sweating.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:15 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

must be why he lost

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nadal wins.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 4:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Match to Nadal.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Jul 6, 2008 4:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

It’s over—Nadal won. Wow, what a match!

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 4:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

It’s hard to dislike Nadal.

Good lord he is strong.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I agree entirely. What an amazing match.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Did you see that shot he hit with his back to the net? Amazing.

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

agreed

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That was awesome

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Federer throws that sweater on.

God I love Federer. He’s like a player from 1920.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Again, I agree entirely. I remember reading an article on Federer done by Rick Reilly a few years ago that really endeared him to me. He walks into the interview room and there is a small chair and a large padded chair. He turns to Reilly and asks if he’d mind if he’d take the bigger chair.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah, he’s a classy guy. I feel bad for him losing. He’s made the finals in 12 of the last 13 majors. That is domination!

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 4:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

OT: The Indians trail, 4-3, bottom of the 8th.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 4:18 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs

couldn’t hold serve in the 7th

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh yeah, baseball….

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Castroturf saying on his blog “according to a MLB source”, it’s a done deal for LaPorta and two other prospects.

by cheech99 on Jul 6, 2008 4:26 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Was just going to write this.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

me too

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is it sad that I’ve been checking LGT for news? Bar studying means not enough time to check multiple sites, so I’ve just been waiting for someone here to tell me what happens.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh the insanity. Perhaps CLE will make an announcement after the game?

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

When he was unhittable, watching Betancourt pitch was like watching a great Hitchcock thriller, with the suspense building until it reaches a shattering climax. Now that he sucks, it’s like having to sit through some endlessly tiresome Mel Gibson movie.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 4:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Have there been any other kind of Mel Gibson movie in the last several years?

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Jul 6, 2008 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

are you saying his career has mirrored M. Night Shamalan? The Happening sucked.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ha—I was actually debating using Shyamalan as my example, but didn’t want to have to fend off the angry M. Night hordes. I figured nobody would want to bother to defend Gibson.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i’m only listening and sitting here because i’m hoping a trade is announced after the game

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Likewise. Please keep us out-of-marketers in the loop if STO says anything.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nothing yet.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Jul 6, 2008 4:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I’m starting to think we might not make the playoffs this year.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 4:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Was Joe Sheehan wrong? He doesn’t have a grasp of the Cleveland mojo, I guess.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No team can roll over like an Eric Wedge team. Good luck CC, wish we could join you.

by oxforddave on Jul 6, 2008 4:39 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs

Indians record has now dropped below miserable 2003 after 88 games

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 4:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

and the 2003 team ended up winning 68 losing 94 and that team finished 25 games ahead of last place Detroit

do Shapiro and Wedge think they can do that well this year? no matter how many games they win this year they are not likely to finish 25 games ahead of the worst team

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pardon my french, but who the &$x%x cares how many games they finish ahead of the last-place team, or if they’re the last-place team? Will finishing in fourth place make you feel better?

by Ryan on Jul 6, 2008 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes, were you not laughing at Detroit in 2003

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

not at all

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not really – it was more pity than glee.

But again, if the Indians lose 100 games and finish ahead of someone, it would suck just as much as if those 100 loses would be the most in baseball. Besides, they wouldn’t get to pick first in next year’s draft.

by Ryan on Jul 6, 2008 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs