Here Today... Gone To Hell!

Here's the new thread for the 2016 season!

Because it's Jan 5th and pitchers and catchers report in about 5-6 weeks.   :hihi:

For years I never even clicked on the non GNR sections around here.. I am glad i finally made it down to the sports with you guys.

Now that football is officially done for me... can't wait for spring training!

Yeah, I'm totally lost this time of year.  Football over (I'm a Giants fan,too).  No baseball. College B-Ball sorta in the doldrums.

Time to empty off the DVR...and, this year, watch all the GnR news!!

I caught the premiere of Billions... I think that's going to be the next big show.

I will get in to the hockey playoffs...but yeah spring training can't come soon enough.

Same with me right now. It's meh. My Jets imploded again as usual. My Rangers can't get their head out of their asses. So spring training can't come fast enough for me either.

Congrats to Griffey Jr, Piazza and Raines on their hall of fame election today.

All well-deserved, especially glad that Raines finally got in.

Looks like he didn't the site i read it on i guess jumped the gun. Only Piazza and Griffey Jr got in. Griffey now holds the record for percentage of votes at 99.3. That's impressive! Only player coming up i see any chance of topping that is the great Rivera.

Just noticed that too.  Cannot understand how they exclude a player of Raines' quality.  I see there's still quite a strong anti-PED contingent, as both Bonds and Clemens weren't even close. 

I agree, no reason Raines isn't in yet long overdue. Bagwell and Hoffman deserve in as well. I hope they all get in next year because in 2018-9 we got Rivera and Jeter and there's no doubt they go in first ballot. Yep Bonds and Clemens rose but still not enough for election.

Good for Jr. and Piazza, very cool.

Not happy at all about Jim Edmonds falling off the ballot - that's insane.

I get him being a guy who wasn't likely to get in but 2.something %?

That's fucking nuts.

Yeah that's really bad for Edmonds. I guess his only hope now is the Veterans committee.

Billions is going to be great, the first scene of that show was enough to reel in and hook me.

Giamatti's great in everything he does and this is no exception.

I'm glad his Dad's Pete Rose ban still stands to this day as well. :yes:

Raines and Bagwell should've also gotten in today imo.

It sucks.

I'm a small Hall guy, it's is and should be exclusive.

But off the ballot after 1 year?

Totally fucked up.

I actually don't view Raines and Bagwell as guys who deserve it... and that's not a knock on them...

I just think the HOF should be for the all time great players and not the really really good players like those two were.

I'm so down on the HOF and the voters... for my money i'd take Jeff kent over Craig Biggio 8 days a week... and yet one is in and Kent will never sniff the 75 percent.

I love SOA too... so having Maggie Siff in it is a big plus!

I think Damian lewis might be the next Bond too.

JR was such a great player to watch iive

Bonds is the best play I have ever seen... when they walk you intentionally when the bases are loaded.....Then you are playing a different game than everybody else....

But Griffey is hands down the best player I have ever seen not linked to the juice.

I never got a chance to see Bonds play live.   Wish I did...

JRs all star career was just cut a little short do to bad injuries around 31 ish years old.  Where Bonds career only got better!!  ahaha

Either way Bonds belongs in the hall of fame.

Drew Storen to the Blue Jays for Ben Revere.

The bullpens in the AL East continue to get stronger. It's going to be tough to come back in the late innings within the division.

Revere was great.... 

Its funny...

The Jays needed a left fielder, a ace pitcher and bullpen help.....  Last year.. 

we got all that....

Now...  Bye... Bye Bye...

Now our outfield is one injury away from shambles..   Don't get me started about the future...

Rumor is Shapiro was going to sign with the NFL football team browns in August.....   Wish he did..

Yeah, AL East late innings look TOUGH.  If the games are close, not going to be much scoring, late....well, until you're playing in the 11th.  Then....it'll be a slugfest.

About 35 days until pitchers and catchers report!!

Cespedes possibly to Baltimore? They've apparently made him an offer.

He must really want to stay in NY, reportedly he's deciding whether to take the O's 5-year $90M offer or a 1-yr deal with the Mets. 

It would be nice to see him stay in NY. It's rare you see a player choose a place they enjoy over a ton of money.

Not sure the enjoyment of playing for the Mets is exactly the case, the 1 year thing would just be a pillow deal to get him a bigger, longer contract next year from whomever in wherever.

What's the report on this Texas pitcher the jays are really interested in?   Is he any good

Nothing more than an innings eater anymore...

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gallayo01.shtml

4-5 guy

That Baltimore deal is probably off the table now that they re-signed Davis.  In any case, bad timing for a pillow deal, that's usually something you do after a bad year, not a career year.  If he can't cash in now after the way he carried the Mets to the division title, I don't know what he expects to be there next year.  He's a very good, not great, player, who's real or perceived personal flaws are hurting him badly in the FA market.  I'm pretty sure he'd take less to stay in NY, both to live in the city and to play for a playoff contender, but if I were him, if he could even get a 3-year deal (which won't be from the Mets), I would take it.  Conversely, if he wants to take the 1-year game with the Mets, I'd happily take him.

B.J. Upton to the Tigers. 6 years 132.75 million. Can opt out after second year.

Justin Upton, BJ's brother. BJ is still playing out his horrendous contract. Tigers have thrown some dough around this winter.

Oops sorry about that.

No Charges for Chapman:

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/local/broward/fl-aroldis-chapman-no-charges-20160121-story.html

Was expecting that... sounded all along like there wasn't much physical evidence. Who knows what he did.

Sounds like the Nats are gonna grab Cespedes along with Murphy. Gotta sting the Met fans.

Doesn't sting in as much being tired of same ol' same ol'.  Ownership still hasn't recovered from the Madoff losses and won't for a long time, so unless the league comes in and forces them to sell, which will never happen, this is what we're stuck with. 

In any case, good for both of them, though I expected Murphy would get more than 3 yrs, $37M, still very good. Cespedes is looking at $100M, he'd be nuts not to take that now, that kind of offer will not be there for him next year. 

They pay NOTHING for the best pitching staff I have seen in forever....

and they simply are not giving themselves the best chance to win around them.

Basically, yeah.  That great pitching staff only got them a .500 record until the trading deadline when they brought the bats in.  Can't win if you don't score.

FanGraphs is projecting them for 84 wins next year.   :( 

And by the time they can afford big contract bats....their pitching staff will all have gone on to FA.

I'm not sure what they have in the farm system left to try to pull off another trade deadline restock this year...maybe enough..  But how long can they operate that way....putting that burden on their pitching staff for 85 to 90 games, and hoping they stay close enough to make a late season run?

Yep...

They have had a strange offseason... you would think they would be all in right now... because they are going to lose at least two of their four horses to FA.

Cuddyer gives them the gift of a life time by walking away... and they use that money to re up Colon and sign Deaza?

Reports saying Cespedes could sign three year deal with the Mets with opt out after 1.

That would be ideal for all parties... keeps him motivated to play hard all year.

‏@Ken_Rosenthal 1 minute ago
So full Cespedes deal with #Mets, per sources: Three years, $75M, full no-trade clause, opt-out after one year. Pending physical.


 @Ken_Rosenthal 4 minutes ago
If Cespedes opts out with #Mets, his one-year salary will be $27.5M, second-highest AAV ever for a position player. @jonheyman first.

Well i guess he really did want to stay with the Mets. I think the Mets made the right choice retaining him. Question now is does he opt out next year?

The mets hope he opts out ! Means he had a big year.

Why would they want that? They likely lose him if he does.

If he doesn't opt out.... it means he had a really bad season.... catch 22...the FA position players next year in FA are really weak supposedly.

but I think they would sign up for 35 homers and 100 ribbies and then deal with him leaving....

Maybe but him leaving costs them something like 27.5 million.

I love the Cespedes signing.  While not quite a superstar player, he's a lightyears upgrade over who they have now and completely changes the dynamic of the lineup.  Basically, it's a 1-year, $27.5M deal.  There's no way he's not opting out because he's sure to get more than just a 2-year deal, as that is all he would have with the Mets at that point. 

Smart move by all involved.

There's no such thing as a bad 1 year deal in today's baseball landscape and that's essentially what this is.

Greg Bird out for 2016 for the Yanks. Shoulder surgery (torn labrum).

He was going to start in AAA anyway, and wait on the almost inevitable injury call up....so it doesn't hurt them much out of the shoot.  But it SURE makes them a lot thinner at 1b, organizationally, this season.

Of course, Tex will play 100 games and put up monster numbers this year, because.....it's his walk year.

Booked two baseball trips this year.   Toronto for 8 games!! Over 2 weeks in July.   With my two kids.  It will be there first ball games

Denver for 3 jays games.   June.   Solo trip.  Being bad trip haha

Meija for the Mets is gone forever. First ever lifetime ban for PED use. Fucking moron.

Beyond idiotic.  I never thought a lifetime ban would ever happen with anyone, but I guess ya gotta believe.   

"It marked his third positive PED test in the past year, triggering the lifetime expulsion."

Third time in the past year?  Wonder what kind of help MLB or the players union or the Mets offered him after his first and second offenses?  I understand that not everyone accepts help when offered but I hope they at least tried.

Very sad.

And other leagues around the world uphold the ban. So his career is effectively over.

Yep, either he is one big dumbass or has a serious problem.

Maybe I'm being ignorant about this, but I never viewed steroid usage as a personal problem or addiction like narcotics or alcohol abuse.  As far as I know, steroids are not addictive.  To me it's just someone taking a shortcut to get an unfair advantage over his competitors.  That's not something I would expect anyone to get any sympathy or help for. 

I suspect he placed his trust in the wrong people, who were promising him up and down that 'this stuff is undetectable'. 

Isn't he a minor leaguer right now? Or, rather, wasn't he?

In that case, the answer to the above question is zero...at least on mlb or the mlbas part.  Who knows with the mets...

I'm not sure if he was in the minors at the time but he was their closer at some point last year.

Yeah, i thogh they had teassigned him BEFORE he got popped with the first suspension, but i'm not 100% sure. If so...he gets zippo. If he was with mlb, he gets full mlbpa support and an appeal.

Don't think he deserves any of it. He's obviously a moron.

This is an absolute brutal time of year for sports. So glad the boys report this week.

I am going to the Ranger Blackhawk game tomorrow night... my sons first hockey game...so pumped for that.

Should be a good one. I'm going when they're in Dallas next weekend.

Let's go jays!

The boys report Monday

Let's go best team in the world!

Let's go jays!

Happ still stinks!

Yanks P&Cs report today.

The sports drought is almost over.....

How did the little guy like his first nhl game?

He was really in to it... couldn't have had more fun. Already asking me when we can go back.. unfortunately tickets at MSG don't come easy!

I hope MLB rules on Chapman soon...already sick of hearing about it! Really wouldn't be bad for us if he has to sit for 40 games...pushes back free agency for him.

Too bad that bum Yandle cost us a point at least with a dumbass penalty.

Jay Bruce to the jays for Saunders.   Huge rumour here.  Damn.  Add another 30 hrs to this jays line up please.   

Looks like its close to a done deal.

This could b a good "change of scenery" scenario for Bruce but he's kind of "what you see is what you get" guy.

Bad OBP, strikes out a ton but can go on a tear for a few days at a time and carry a team.

Deal is dead ?

Yep

Jays minor Leag guy, failed medical or something.  Deal is off for now, however the jays want a power left bat bad

Anyone see Jose Bautistas comments? Im a jays fan, and although not great for the team, he basically came out and said I told the team what I deserve to get paid and for how long and im not negotiating, thats what im worth lol, Joses a beauty

I loved the comments.  And I will love watching his last year in a jays jersey.  3 years at 75 million is my top end for him.  Heard he is asking 4 at 100 million     That's what I would pay Edwin though

Chapman suspended 30 games under MLB's new domestic violence policy.

It'll be interesting to see how the inevitable appeal goes.  This one is interesting for a few reasons (it's the first real test of the policy, for starters).  Given there is no law enforcement action being taken, the basis for this one is the one that's going to be the most solid basis for an appeal. 

IF there is evidence we haven't heard that something untoward happened, he deserves every game (and maybe more). 

I also think, even if there's not, this is good move (and a good policy, actually) for MLB. It will let them test the limits of their own policy, early on, with a somewhat questionable case.

I'm not so sure the MLBPA will feel the same way, though. We'll see.

Edit: Well, never mind. He's decided not to appeal.  Fair enough.  Guess we'll have to wait for another case to test the policy.

Watching the first Yanks sprint training game.

All sees right with the world....

Yesterday was a bad day for Jose Reyes.

He will get hammered....

If he's found guilty, I expect close to a full season.

Just saw the Cards extended 2B Kolten Wong for 5 years at $25.5 mil buying out all of his arbitration years and 1 year of FA.

A good deal for all, for now at least.  :)

I'm guessing the 30 days was just for firing his gun in his house, which he's admitted to, so maybe that's why he's not appealing. 

Yanks? Chapman Sorry ?For Use Of The Gun,? Says He?ll Be Ready May 9
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2016/03/02/yankees-aroldis-chapman-suspension-spring-training/

TAMPA, Fla. (CBSNewYork) ? Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman claims he has learned his lesson.

On Wednesday, a day after being suspended for 30 games by MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred for his role in a domestic violence incident last October involving his girlfriend, the hard-throwing left-hander accepted responsibility for his actions and explained why he changed his mind about appealing the ban.

?Yes, this is definitely something I wanted to put behind me, and I want to move on, help this team win,? Chapman told WFAN?s Sweeny Murti and other media members through translator Marlon Abreu. ?We?re trying to win a championship here and I think this is the best thing for me, for my teammates and my family.?

Under the discipline announced Tuesday, Chapman will serve the penalty from the start of the season in April. He will lose 30 days of pay ? $1,856,557 of his $11,325,000 salary ? and 30 days of major league service, which will allow him to reach six years of service time after this season, enough to become eligible for free agency.

Chapman said he was advised by his lawyer to accept the suspension, but said ultimately it was his decision to do so. He also admitted that by dragging out the appeal process he could have hurt himself in the eyes of the Yankees or other clubs in free agency.

?I want to take this opportunity ? I want this to be clear ? I?m apologizing because of the use of the gun. It was bad judgment on my part,? Chapman said, adding, ?but I also want to say that I never hurt my girlfriend. And I want this to be very clear: I?m taking this punishment because of my bad judgment, something that I definitely want to put behind me and move on.?

Chapman said he no longer owns a gun and will continue to work to prove to the Yankees that he can be trusted both on the field and off.

?I think that this is something that is going to help me mature, not only for me but also (so) my teammates can look at this and learn from this,? Chapman said.

Yankees manager Joe Girardi said he hates to lose his closer for so long, but was complimentary of the job MLB has done to put a policy in place that holds players accountable for their actions.

?Domestic violence is not acceptable, so, to me, that is extremely important. We know it?s a sensitive subject and Aroldis now knows,? Girardi said. ?And sometimes the worst thing is not knowing, waiting to know, and he knows what he needs to do.?

Chapman said not being able to play for 30 games ?will be a mental challenge,? but added he feels ?physically strong and mentally strong.? He also thanked the Yankees for standing behind him.

?My job will be to work really hard and wait for May 9, so I can join my team,? Chapman said. ?On the other hand, my team has given me so much support it has actually helped me to build a good relationship with my teammates.?

When Chapman returns, the Yankees will have arguably the best back end of the bullpen in baseball. Along with Dellin Betances and Andrew Miller, the Bombers will feature three power arms capable of shortening games dramatically and thus making up for the club?s apparent question marks in its starting rotation.

According to WFAN?s Murti, Miller is expected to start the season as the closer. The veteran left said the Yankees will be fine regardless of the order of the relievers.

?Dellin can pitch in the fifth inning to the ninth inning. I?d like to say the same thing about myself,? Miller said. ?More of what we know is flexibility. More of what we know is being ready for multiple innings or a particular hitter or three days in a row, whatever it is. It?s what we?re used to.

?We just have to go out there and do our job,? Miller added.

Yup, that's what he's saying.  Which is fair enough!  He says part of the reason he didn't appeal is that a longer suspension would have potentially effected his free agency clock.  Better to take the 30 games and 2 million now, over costing himself a LOT more in FA.

Jays have looked really good on pre season so far

Anybody see that story how Bonds beat Giancarlo in a home run derby the other day at spring training?

Made me chuckle for sure.

Just heard about Joe Garagiola's passing today, what a great life he led.

Founded BAT, helping players who'd fallen on hard times.

Longtime advocate of Native Americans.

Outspoken activist against smokeless tobacco.

Hosted both the Tonight Show and Today Show along with the "Game of the Week" on NBC with Tony Kubek.

Childhood friend of Yogi Berra, both growing up on The Hill in StL.

My dad had the pleasure of spending some time Joe when Dad was a young player in the Phillies organization and also later in life at Stan and Biggies Restaurant in StL, RIP Joe.

So A-Rod is calling it quits after next season. Great player but made way too many bad decisions in his career. I'm curious to see how much closer to Bonds he will get with his home run totals. i can't see him getting another 76.

Yeah, but...if he hits 30 the next 2 (I'd be surprised at this)....I bet he comes back for the 3rd to take a run.  He's even softened his retirement comments later yesterday, and I'm thinking thats why.

That's going to be an awkward HR chase. Then again, they all are these days.

I suspect that when his Yankee contract expires, the league will blacklist him the way they did with Bonds, so he wouldn't be able to continue playing and challenge the record.

Personally i don't see him putting up those kinds of numbers again for the next two seasons to get reasonably close.

I think you'd be surprised. Especially now that he's begun "rehabilitating" his reputation.

I'm relatively sure that, given the right price, someone would sign him, ASSUMING he'd been a 25-30 HR guy the past 2 years and was still productive (which really the only way he's looking for a contract in 2 years). Miami, in particular, would probably be interested.  The Yankees might give him one more year at 5 to 8 million per, too. The Giants gave Barry 2007 almost entirely because, tainted or not, they wanted to reap the rewards of him breaking the record.  IF this was still Aaron's record, I think there would be more likelihood.  But....with Bonds holding it....who cares(meaning...in the league front offices) if another PED user supplants him ? 

Bonds was also a slightly different animal.  He was embroiled in an actual court/criminal proceedings that could (and eventually did..though only with 30 days of house arrest) end up with jail time. He also had NOT admitted to (really), nor had he been punished for his PED use.  In addition, Bonds was FLATLY against playing the DH spot for an AL team. And finally, according to later reports, he was uninterested in anything less than a 15 to 18 million per deal. Supposedly, those were the parameters laid out to the league when he hit free agency.

I'm not sure if all those factors are in play with Arod.  Maybe. Well, likely not the legal issues.  I also think this conversation is a moot point if he's 30+ HR's from the record going into the 2018 season or if his 2017 season SUUUUUUUCCCCKKKKS (.225 and 18 HRs).  I think BOTH of those scenarios are far more likely than him being within spitting distance of the big milestone.

To be honest, neither do I. But it's possible. And now, apparently, he's giving himself an out, just in case.

I think he will be such a star on FOX... that all of his sins will be forgiven.

Interesting factoid: The Mariners waived Jesus Montero, and he's about to be claimed by the Jays.

This is interesting ENTIRELY because Montero is the guy that the Yanks traded to Seattle to get Pineada.

While Pinaeda has had injury issues....when he's been on the mound, he has been a pretty decent #3/4 starter. 

Montero, on the other hand, has been pretty much an abject failure.

Safe to say that, when looking back, the Yanks "won" this trade.

I hope Toronto has enough fast food joints to keep Jesus full.  ;D

In hindsight that turned out to be an awful trade for the M's.

Yup!  I honestly think Pineada and Severino are the foundation of this rotation going forward.  But we'll see what this year brings.

I think the Yanks have upgraded their defense AND offense this season, to the point they're relatively decent.

It's their starting pitching, it's durability, AND it's ability to actually give them innings game to game (IE: not burn out the bull pen) that I worry about.

And the fact the Red Sox look to be the best team in the AL, on paper, IMHO.

Really? I don't think the Red Sox pitching is very good...after Price obviously.

Betts and Xander are legit studs doe. The East is wide open anybody but Tampa could take it down.

I like the Yanks going in to the season. I think Castro was a steal and I think our rotation is better than what people think.

They obviously don't have to go too deep in games either...

Ellsbury, Teixeira and Beltran.... they gotta produce....

The Red Sox COULD be good this year, but I had much higher expectations for them a few months ago. Now I think it's quite likely they'll be closer to last than first. They haven't had the greatest spring. E-Rod has the potential to be a top of the rotation guy but he got hurt early on and will start the season on the DL. Carson Smith was supposed to be the main setup guy to Kimbrel and he's out at least a month. Sandoval looks like he'll start the season as a bench player. Rusney Castillo has failed to prove he can play in the majors and lost the LF job to Brock Holt.

And yes, their starting pitching has big time question marks behind Price. Buchholz has been consistent as far as injuries go, not performance. Porcello has been bad this spring, was bad last year. Not sure you can rely on him to bounce back based on that track record. Joe Kelly finished last season strong and has had a good spring, but he's far from a proven commodity.

Hanley has actually looked decent at 1B so far, which is a pleasant surprise. I don't have great hopes for the Red Sox for David Ortiz's swan song. I think Toronto and the Yankees are most likely better than them, maybe even Tampa. The Rays always seem to have strong pitching to keep them afloat. The Orioles offense should be good, but their pitching could actually be worse than the Sox. I suspect those two teams will battle it out for last place. I hope I'm wrong of course. But it wouldn't surprise me in the least if the Sox get off to a slow start and Farrell loses his job. What happens after that is anyone's guess.

Jays will win the American league this year, with a close race with KC.   They will win the East by 8 games.  They are that much better than the rest. 

The Jays at this years trade deadline will rent another starter, back up catcher and power left hitter.

The Jays are lucky enough to have a bunch of high end talent, with expiring contracts that will want to do everything they can to have career years.

How many beers you have today Bacon? lol

hahaha, no drinking midweek any more.   Only weekends and vacation....   

The jays success this year.  Is the straight up sober truth

For the record, Jeff Passan agrees with you.

He has the Jays first, the o's last, and zero confidence in his picks. Says the division will prolly come diwn to who can stsy healthy the longest. Says any team in the division can win, given winning the "health" lottery.

I had that trade nailed as a Yanks steal the day it happened.

The Pineda-Montero trade definitely looked like a steal for the Yankees on day one, but when Pineda suffered a serious shoulder injury, it seemed like it might have turned out to become a case of garbage in, garbage out.  But now that he's recovered well, there's no doubt Yankees have come out way ahead, even if he's only back-end quality from here on out, though I expect he'll be better than that. 

I think Pineda is what he is now. I don't think he takes the next step to being a consistent front line starter... but nonetheless...it was still a steal of a trade.

Watching jays Boston from Montreal right now.   Montreal really needs to get a team back and be in the American League

In the states do u guys have this 4k TV?   They are just starting to broadcast the games up here in it.  Seeing if it is worth it to upgrade

We have it but very little content for it. I believe directv has 4k stuff available.

Tough break for A.J. Pollock last night, literally. Breaking his forearm after finishing up a slide into home the weekend before the opener. Brutal. It wasn't even a collision or anything, just crazy unfortunate luck. Local kid from around me in Hebron, CT too. Had a nice breakout season last year. Too bad. Hope he can make it back this season.

Any word on how long he'll be out exactly? Tough break you hate to see stuff like that.

Jays opening day today!!!   Let's go Jays!!  Let's go Baby!!

Good to see the Royals pick up right where they left off by beating the Mets once again.

Pollock said he hopes to play this season, so it'll be awhile and could be the entire year. Tough blow.

This new slide rule is so brutal. 

Jays should of won this game.   Total joke

Total joke of a new rule

Stupid and a total joke of a way to lose a game!   

Total bs

He would've been called out new rule or not, the left hand going for the foot was a no no regardless.

That's rough.

Not surprising at all. That team is going to be ridiculously good the next several years.

Yup.

This isn't the new part of the rule.  If you reach out with your arm to impede the play, you were always going to be called out. And he CLEARLY reached (that wasn't part of his normal sliding motion) to grab the ankle.

And then the 2nd half of the DP becomes "umpire discretion".  I'm assuming, after review, they think the grab effected the throw enough to break up the play.

The new rule is about being in proximity to the bag, or purposefully oversliding the bag, to break up the play. 

It sucks to lose that way...I'm not sure the throw is on line even if JB doesn't reach out and touch someone.  But JB has to know that he can't get away with that, too.

The baseline play, yesterday, for the Yanks was likewise brutal. I don't even care about the outcome of the game.  It's the play itself that bugs me.

I don't think the umps got the call wrong, per se, but I likewise don't think enforcement matches the intent of the rule. The runner was CLEARLY out of the base path. He was CLEARLY doing it to impede the throw and prevent the play. It's a clear cut case of interference, if not by rule, by intent.

The rule says that the runner's position has to impede the 1st baseman's catch...and the ump ruled that the throw was so bad, the 1st baseman had no shot to catch the ball...ignoring the fact the throw was bad because the runner was blocking the base line. But I get the umps interpretation. Its a poorly worded rule.

I said, live, Nova should have just drilled the guy in the numbers with a 85 to 90 mph fb to Tex.  Likely the runner would have been called out for interference, and the runner would have learned not to try that again.  Girardi addressed it after the game and expressed that he would really rather not have his players do it, but you could hear the implication that he's going to have a talk with his pitchers and, barring MLB issuing a clarification of the rule's language, that's what's going to happen.  And I say...good.  In this case, that would be the game policing itself the RIGHT way (though I know the league has been down on that concept, of late).

I'm not normally a guy who supports hitting a player.  But in that case, you don't have a choice. I learned that fielding my position in little league and on up.  If the runner is going to be outside the base lines, and trying to impede a defensive play, they are taking the risk and should know what's coming: That there is a risk of injury and getting hit when doing that.

I will say that I like the more underrated teams, smaller market teams rising to the level of the bigger market teams and dominating them. :)

Was nice to see the Mets help the Royals celebrate their World Series ring ceremony by shutting them out.  Syndergaard was incredible, 9 Ks in 6 innings against the league's best contact hitting team, I'm expecting a monster season from him this year.  Nice 1-2-3 ninth by Familia to close out the win, where the F was that last October?

I don't think they were going to turn the DP. Completely unnecessary by Bautista. Got caught up in the moment I guess, but a stupid mistake regardless. Cost his team the game pretty much. I hate breaking a game down to one singular play, but it certainly sealed their fate.

Red Sox looked great yesterday with Price on the mound. Now the hard part, as we see how they look with starter's 2-5 going. Plus, they started last season 5-2 and the rotation looked great the first time around. So they need to do a lot more for a lot longer to make me a true believer.

Batista was out.  Nobody is arguing that

You are still allowed to break up a double play as well....   You are not allowed to hurt anyone or raise your arms on a slide...

There was no way that double play would of been made regardless of any of Batistas actions..   Then they call the play?!?!?!

I tell you the umps are out to screw the Jays!!!!!!!!!!

Yeah, but you're not allowed to reach out and grab the guys ankle, impeding his ability to throw the ball to first. Bautista was in the wrong, there's really no debating that. The only question I'd have is if that action prevented the DP from being turned. I'm not so sure. My gut tells me he would've beaten the throw if it was a clean slide, but the umps obviously felt otherwise. If the Jays miss out on the playoffs by one game we'll certainly look back to this one. I think they'll be fine though.

Nope. JB screwed them.

If he DOESN'T reach out and try to put the guy in the ankle lock..and they don't make the double play, Jays win.

It was a dumb mistake.  If he doesn't grab the guy by the ankle, there's no review, either way.  On this one, blame JB.

Home opener today for the Jays!!! 

Against those evil, ace pitcher thiefs!!!   The Red Sox bums!!!!!

Go Jays!!!!!!

Looked good for the Sox in the first 3 and a half innings. Too bad they had to play that bottom of the 4th. 4 straight singles, plunk a guy in the head, give up a grand slam. Not a recipe for success there.

When does Price pitch again? Good thing they're giving him an extra days rest. You might want to rethink that Farrell

Jays should trade Jose Batista. 

Score one for the good guys last night Bacon!

Those evil Yankee bums will get it good tonight!!!!

It was a good game last night!

Yanks are going to have to find a way to make their starters more efficient, though.  They can't throw 100 pitches in 5 innings every night.  The bullpen will be worn out by June (again).  And they don't have the depth in Scranton this year to play musical relief pitchers.

Agreed. Girardi is going to be very quick to go out there every night too. (can't blame him with what is out there) Hopefully he paces them properly.

I think the rotation will be OK.

Tanaka and Pinaeda will have to be better then they have to start. Severino needs to be good as well.

Yanks rotation still has a ways to go to catch the Red Sox in futility. Both teams bringing up the rear in starters ERA. Yanks around 6, Sox near 7.5. Some ugly numbers. It's early, but they're still ugly.

Now that's more like it!   

Happ hasn't looked like a bum yet this year.  Very good

Go jays!

You got us tonight. It was a good game until Nova came in and shat the bed.

As good as Nova looked the other night....thats how BAD he looked tonight.  Terrible.

I mean..that's a 3-2 game til he comes in to crap the bed.

Pineada looked decent last night against a REALLY good lineup.  We'll see what today brings.

Yep no way to sugar coat that. He shat the bed bad. I know he's still recovering from his TJ surgery but ouch.

He's also just not a reliever... he was bad...but I can't get on him too much... these guys are creatures of habit.

Nova would slide in to the 4 spot in a lot of rotations around the league.

He should get back in the rotation once he's ready.

Another great win for the good guys!   

It's pretty good when your starter can go 8 innings strong.   All this bullpen ball is great in theory, but nothing beats a strong starting line up.   

The jays bats are warming up as well.   

Straight to the top baby!

Straight to the top!   

Go Jays!

Starlin Castro just literlly made a catch with his ass...and turned it into a double play. Def play of he night on sportscenter

The Yankees are giving me headaches.

The offense is abysmal, esp with risp. And dds glove and bat are barely keeping pace with his atrocious decision making. Add to that the fact that tex, mcann, and arod all look ancient at the plate. Hicks has been worthless. Ellsbury seems to have forgotten how to play center.  The only bright spots are freakng Beltran, and Castro.

Their rotation is good for 5 innings and 3 ish runs. Thats not great, but...its hard to blame the rotation when folks cant hit under pressure.

The bullpen is awesome...but cant pitch 4 innings a game for 162.

All fact...

Very frustrating right now.

I really hope tulos bat comes around. 

Sheesh, just saw this. :(

http://mlb.nbcsports.com/2016/04/24/yankees-say-18-year-old-minor-leaguer-killed-in-car-crash/

Yankees say 18-year-old minor leaguer killed in car crash

NEW YORK (AP) The New York Yankees say Sandy Acevedo, an infielder in their minor league system who was set to begin his professional career this season, has been killed in a car crash. He was 18.

The team says Acevedo died Saturday night in the Dominican Republic. A moment of silence was held for him at Yankee Stadium before Sunday?s game against the Tampa Bay Rays, and a picture of Acevedo batting was shown on the giant video screen in center field.

Acevedo signed with the Yankees as an international free agent last July and was scheduled to make his pro debut this year in the rookie-level Gulf Coast League. He was born in the Dominican Republic and lived in Santo Domingo.

Damn that's awful :(

Ugh Ceciel is not looking good so far this year.   jays really need help in the 7th inning

Just saw the Cards elected Joe Torre and Chris Carpenter to their HOF, very cool. 8)

People forget how great a player Joe was. 1971 MVP, led the league in hitting at .363 while knocking in 137 - incredible.

As for Carp, the most surly SOB since Bob Gibson with the stuff to back it up.  One of my all time favorite pitchers.

Can't wait to see both circling the outfield with the Clydesdale's and dressed in red blazers opening day of next year.

Well deserved honor for Joe. Probably should've been in Cooperstown for his playing as well as managing.

Fucking awesome:  http://m.mlb.com/news/article/175488010/david-ortiz-makes-good-on-home-run-promise

Faldor, Red Sox still suck.  :peace:

Not lately they don't.  :hihi:

Playing some of the worst teams in baseball of late, but at least they're winning the games they're supposed to. That was a cool story with Ortiz making good on his HR promise. Reminded me of the Seinfeld episode with Paul O'Neil. Never liked that guy as a Yankee obviously, but loved him in that episode.

Yankees are pretty awful right now. It's early, and that can change. But I'm not sure what their ceiling is. They seem limited. I guess the potential is still there if they start to hit and get some innings from their starters. Unfortunately for them, neither of those things have happened consistently.

Ha, that's right, but Paul O'Neill did not come through!  He was supposed to hit 2 HRs but only managed a 1 HR and a triple that he scored on after an error.   :hihi:

Yes, the Sox (and the Mets) do look good so far, but it's early, we'll see how things go from here...

Looks like the big panda is going n the big shelf for the rest of the season. Sox say hes having season ending shoulder surgery tomorrow.

In a way, it's a blessing. In that, they don't need him right now. When he was healthy he was a waste of a roster spot since he can only really play one position, and even that's debatable. I thought the DL stint was one of those made up ones. But apparently it was legit. He wasn't in good shape and didn't show any signs of making positive contributions, so it's no big loss.

On the other hand though, they apparently didn't take out insurance on his contract so they're stuck with him. The worst contract since Carl Crawford. What makes it even worse though, is they didn't put in any weight clause On top of not getting any insurance. If there was EVER a guy you do those things for, it's Pablo. I don't expect him to ever make an impact in a Red Sox uniform, so I'll just count the days until that comes off the books. It'll be awhile, so I'll get comfortable. Luckily Travis Shaw has slid in nicely at 3rd and they have a number of young low priced position players to help offset Pablo's albatross of a contract. So it shouldn't hamstring them that much, at least not right away. It still sucks, but it could be worse.

How can the Jays, last years best hitting team, stink so bad this year!  How can so many proven guys be having career lows all at once?   Horse shit!!   

I think a few major trades are needed     

It's still early. Not time to panic just yet. They've obviously underachieved, or taken a step back. But I think their offense is too good to stay quiet for much longer. At least I hope Encarnacion gets it going for my fantasy team. He has not been of much help to me, especially the last two weeks.

At least you're better than the Yankees.....

The bats came alive last night for the good guys!

EE 6 RBIs   Yeah baby!

Chapman back tonight.

Looking forward to seeing him pitch.

It is such a waste of a bullpen.

I threw my hands up in disgust when the Yankees swapped out Robertson for Miller... but it's almost impossible to be a better free agent signing than Miller was.

Strasberg signing extension with nats. Think 7 year, 210-ish million, but mght be as big as 10 year, 280-ish. Opt out included.

Presser tomorrow.

Edit: Contract looks to be 7-175, but I'm hearing that with bonuses it's more like 7-200.

2 opt out points: One at 3 year, one at 4 year.

If only I had been born with a golden pitching arm ... instead of being born so damn handsome...  :)

So that little boy Maverick got to go to a game at Fenway and meet Ortiz and the rest of the team. He got to throw out the first pitch, sit front row next to the Red Sox dugout and have the best day of his life. Truly a great story for a kid who's dealt with so much in his 6 short years. Just awesome to see. He has another surgery scheduled in a few weeks. Hope he stays strong, and Big Papi and the Red Sox can continue to be a positive distraction for him. I know there are stories similar to this with other teams and players. So it's less about Ortiz and more about how important it is in life to have passions that drive you and get you through the tough times. Make sure you have some Kleenex ready before viewing the video.

https://t.co/hAgk8JsNZq

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/177508812/david-ortiz-reunites-with-maverick-schutte

Holy smoke, Odor lit Joey Bats the fuck up. :o

https://twitter.com/barstooltweets/status/731973985102114816

http://mlb.nbcsports.com/2016/05/15/video-jose-bautista-slides-late-into-rougned-odor-sparking-benches-to-empty/

Texas are a bunch of stiffs


So you wait till Joey bats last at bat for the year.  Then you use a 30 year old rookie that just got out of jail that he was in for 3 years!    You use him to hit probably the best home run hitter if not even the best right fielder of the past 6 years  

Then you punch him!    

I thought Texas was tough.  

You punch the guy full force.  As he was walking into into it.  On the chin!    And he barely moves.   That's because you punch like a Sally.    Like a girl!

The best though was when the jays actually came out and tuned up the punk.   Pilar and Donaldson did very good.

But again the jays relief pitchers actually don't relief anything!  

Cecile on dl for 15.  Hopefully he can talk with fat loop and perhaps run into delabar at the unemployment line.

Bums.  

Glad I wasn't in Texas for this game today.   As I would of probably of been shot

Bat's was gonna wear one at some point, that was a given.

I actually thought waiting to last game of the season was brilliant on Texas's part, let him wonder all year "is this when?".

Should've been over and done with then, the slide threw gas on the fire (I hate the slide rule by the way) and Odor did his thing.

Gotta give it up to Bats for not going down, that punch was right on the money.

Oh well, boys will be boys - nothin' like a lil fun at the old ballpark.

I agree, 100%, Falcom.  You knew he was going to wear one, and I think the Rangers waited to exactly when they should have.  Granted, maybe with the game so close, you can question it. But this was obviously planned.  And I think it makes sense, given when "the flip" occurred, too.  It really didn't give the Rangers an opportunity to retaliate, at the point it happened, either. Right?  Turn about is fair play, I say.

Lets face it: Bautista's slide was dirty. And Bacon, you can argue til you're blue in the face on that, but it was late, and there was intent. Odor was lucky to get his leg out of the way or face serious injury.  And, honestly, I don't even mind the slide that much...but it wasn't a hard baseball play being done to save an out.  It was Joey Bats having a tantrum and retaliating for being hit, rather than taking his lump, moving on, and letting the league deal with it. It was what it was.

AND, if Joey Bats gets up, glares at Odor, aand walks back to the dugout....he doesn't get his jaw jacked, either.  But he had to mouth off, get in the guys face, and say his piece, before walking back (that sure looks like letting baseball plays decide things, eh?). That's ENTIRELY the point to all this: Bautista can't just play ball "old school".  He has to try to look "big time" while doing it. He wants to show people up.  And, again...that's fine.  I generally have no problem with it. BUT, there is a whole "old school" crowd that does take issue with it (and it's not a small group)...and you have to know you're gonna take some lumps if that's the way you want to play the game.  Take them, and move on.

Also if you think Bautista took that punch and didn't wobble, you need to watch the play again a few times.  Those knees buckled, and only sheer force of will kept him upright. THAT was impressive, but lets not make it out to be a "sissy punch". No way.   If Odor had wanted to, and followed up, Bautista's head would have been knocked off.  In MMA, the ref would have stopped the freaking fight with another punch or two.  No question who got the better end of that exchange.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cik3X8gUkAAPYxo.jpg)

I don't think Bautista got anything more than he should have been expecting, both times.  He ran into an old school team, with old school attitudes, which should come as no surprise when dealing with a team who's attitude was largely shaped by Nolan Ryan.

There will be suspensions all around, but the funny part is....Odor will take the burnt for the Rangers, and Edsel (the pitcher..I'm probably butchering his name) will get some games, too.  The Jays are going to lose half their team to this one, including their manager for a game or two.  The suspensions might be relatively short (1 to 3 games), but they're all going to be served at the same time.   You could literally lose 30 to 40% of your lineup for awhile.

I HATE the excessive bat flip or the excessive fist pumping and all that ... (even in a playoff game with emotion running high) but I have accepted it's part of the game now.

But if you are going to do it... then take it in the ribs and walk down to first base... end of discussion.

He got what he deserved.

On a separate but somewhat related note, for 15 fucking years I have watched the Yankees throw fastballs right down the middle to Ortiz... him hit it to the moon and stare at it for 5 minutes...with nothing done about it. It's disgusting. Even though I don't know why hes leaving now when all that rice n beans is still working for him ... thank god he is.

And yet...the Sox will throw at just about any Yankee that looks at them crosseyed.

I know.  And I agree...it's annoying as fuck.

That was one hard punch haha.

From all accounts there was some serious punches thrown in the scrum.   The jays bullpen catcher was involved with a few.  I always wanted his job

Batista got hit buy a 96 mhr 4 seem fast ball in the ribs.   Everyone in the world new it was intentional, but the umpire let the pitcher stay in the game?  That's what Joey was complaining about on first base. 

Then if he really wanted to hurt Odur sliding into second.   He would have.   

Just a shame these two teams wont see each other gain until next year

Ortiz gets away with his admiring his HR's, no doubt. Not sure why. Maybe he's well respected and well liked among his peers, so they're willing to accept it. The Yankees did finally hit him a few years back and I don't think he was too happy about it. Chris Archer and David Price have thrown at him and spoken out about him to the media, so he doesn't get a complete pass. But he does get off a little light.

I didn't have a problem with the bat flip heard round the world. The timing of the Rangers hitting Bautista was a little suspect, but you knew they'd probably do that at some point. I also don't have a problem with Bautista being upset and going hard at Odor. If you look at the replay it looks like Odor knew it was coming and aimed the throw at Bautista's head. That's the most egregious act of all this. The throw was way off, and I don't think that was due to Bautista bearing down on him. Odor is probably going to get a hefty suspension since he connected. He's a dirty player. Check on YouTube for a brawl he was involved in where he was overly aggressive in the minors too. Seems like a bit of a punk to me. Even more so than Jose.

let's consider what this is about:

Texas took issue with the manner in which Bautista celebrated to biggest home run of his career - a home run that was only possible because of damn-near historically inept fielding by Texas in the same inning, and an absolute grapefruit served up by Sam "I'll pretend to wash my balls with a Jays' fan's towel while harping about respecting the game" Dyson. They spent 6 months harping about it, along with every other "old school" ex-pitcher ESPN could find. Interestingly, the view outside of Texas and Toronto was, at worst 50/50 over whether or not it was "disrespectful" to Texas.

Despite this, Texas clearly at some point plotted revenge against Bautista for the perceived slight to the team's dignity. Naturally, rather than take advantage of ample opportunities to do so both in Toronto and earlier in the series, the Texas "tough guy" Rangers waited until the last time Bautista would come to the plate vs Texas this season (outside of the playoffs). This is the moment when the Texas "respect for the game" Rangers decide to have a cokehead jailbird rookie (because that's so respectful) plunk Bautista in the ribs with a 96 mph pitch.

Sure, Bautista was wrong to run at Odor, but under baseballs "unwritten rules" (which apparently in some circles are more important than the actual written ones) it was an appropriate response to being plunked. So naturally, Odor responds to NOT ACTUALLY BEING INJURED by cold-cocking Bautista in the jaw when he wasn't expecting it-apparently that's what tough guys who "respect the game" do.

The Rangers are hypocrites and punks - top to bottom

The appropriator response to getting plunked to do nothing.  No hard slide (illegal now) and no mouthing off after the slide.

Not excusing Odor's actions of course, but if Joey Bat's didn't expect some sort of response it's on him.

I wasn't aware Toronto plunked Fielder after the 2nd base dust up, bush..

Fielder wore it and went to first, simple as that.



 

Feilder took it like a champ

He actually smiled

But I think he was smiling because it was his first time on base this year! haha

Agreed Bman, across the board.  I hope the rest of the teams in the league unite behind the Jays on this and always flip their bats when playing the Rangers, for anything, even for a walk. 

Without a warning, you can't chuck him. Especially in a one run game, because, even though you and I both know it was intentional....the umps have no proof.  I mean..what if it really HAD just gotten away from him?  And, the Rangers were smart: They played good cop, got no warnings, and took their pound of flesh.  That's baseball.

Toronto has done similar stuff to similar folks before (A-rod, for example).  Joey bats bitched because, as per usual, that's just what he does.  Take your lump and move on.  Get them the next time by smashing another homer deep into the bleachers.


Sorry, no.  He slid WAY late, and was going right for Odur.  Odur, astutely, managed to move.  If he doesn't, his leg gets nailed.  You can't say he wasn't trying to hurt him, or the slide wasn't dirty, because Bautista obeyed the laws of physics and couldn't change direction.

And when he got up, he glared at Odur...before Odur had said a word.  It was intentional...and very typical of Bautista.  And again, I have no problem with it.  But, if Bautista glares, and walks back to the dugout.....no punches get thrown.  

He didn't.  He, again, felt the need to open his mouth.  Which then got shut, quickly, by a right hook.


Or October.

I don't think its a shame, at all, actually.  I think the stewing will do everyone some good. ;)

It's the Jays turn to spend some time being pissed off.  The Rangers got to do it all winter.

See, I don't have a problem with it all ,either.  Not the flip, not throwing at JB, or at the slide, or at Odurs glare.

But if you're gonna write checks, you have to have money in the bank to cash them.  If you do things a certain way....there is a segment of players and team management that take issue with it.  And you have to know, and take, what's coming.

Again, I would have had 100% more respect for Jose if he took the shot to the ribs, slid hard (and dirty) at Odur, and then just turned his back and walked off the field.

You know, like he said: Let it all be determined by baseball plays.

But he didn't. He opened his yap, and went to get in the WRONG guys face. 

I agree...Odur is a bit of a punk.  But I don't think he's MORE of one that JB.  He was just more willing to shut the other guy up than most players are.

Odur will get 7, probably, and lowered to 5.  He MIGHT get 15, lowered to 10...but I think that's high given Joey Bats move toward him.  If Odur had sucker punched him, as he got up from the slide...maybe.

I think that's roughly the "old school" vs "new school" POV percentage, too.

That's the MLB battle right now, waging.  The "new school" folks like the emotion, a bit of swagger, and celebration".  The "old school" thinks that disrespects the game and the other players on the opposing team...and when you're trusting (to some extent) the "other guys" with your life when you step into the box...that's the basis of "the unwritten rules". 

You play hard, I'll play hard, and neither of us will try to make the other look bad, or hurt them intentionally.

The old school feels, if you throw those out the window, so do they....and all bets are off.


You're missing the poetic justice piece: The Rangers had to stew all winter about it.  They weren't give the opportunity to retaliate that that point in time or, as Joey Bats said, let baseball plays take care of things.

They decided..and you gotta admire the evil streak...to put JB and the Jays in the same boat.  They now have 130ish games to stew about it, plus, potentially, an entire off season.  I mean...thats just amazing in terms of planning, story, and pure evilness of the revenge.   It wasn't because they feared the Jays reprisals. They were making a point.


No.

The appropriate response, in the unwritten rules, is to take your base and shut your mouth.  Especially if you know WHY it's being done. Especially especially if your team has engaged in similar reprisals in the past. ;)

If you think you been done wrong, the appropriate response is to have a "discussion" with the pitcher up the first base line, and handle it with them.

It is NOT to then perpetrate a dirty slide on the the guy covering second base. It is not to RUSH the same guy, while yelling at him, because the guy takes issue with your dirty slide WITH A GLARE and a couple choice obscenities.

You can't have it both ways: You can't say "JB was right to mouth off"...when he wasn't injured.  But Odur, in kind, can not take action against a guy rushing him, screaming at him, and apparently intending to either harm him, or get in his face....because HE was not injured. 

I'm not saying Odur was right to cold cock him (though, it might have been a better munch than anything seen at the Manny vs Pac Man fight), either.  I'm saying that....JB bears some of the responsibility and blame for his aching jaw this morning, too.  A good bunch of it.  Probably half of it (or more).


Not surprising you think so, given your loyalties.  I wouldn't go so far.  They have their share, and Odur is def one of them.

But so do the Jays, and JB is right at the top of that list.  Listen to his post game comments.  Watch his actions on the field.  THATS hypocrisy.

See, I say you include the Jays in that conversation.  Bat flips for everyone.

And watch how many jays plunk the opposition.  It will be a lot more than one, I can promise you.

Really?  I did not think they were among the old school of 'if you emotionally hurt us by celebrating, we will physically hurt you" thought.  But could be, admit I don't follow them that closely.  Whichever team it is though, be it Rangers, Jays, even Mets, I find that approach so pathetic.  Anyway, aptly-named Odor definitely connected well, but that awesome bat flip from last year was still well worth it.

I understand some people think certain celebrations cross the line from celebration to 'taunt'.  But so what?  One of the most common expressions on a basketball court is 'IN YO' FACE!!'  Can't get much more taunt than that.  But it's so common, that it's generally taken in good nature.  So it's become fun to give and take trash, which is what sports is supposed to be --- fun. 

The Jays are very innocent of any wrong doing.  They play a very clean and safe version of ball.

I hold baseball to a higher standard than the other sports with that stuff... might not be right...but I always will.

I don't get why pitchers get to celebrate a big strikeout without repercussions yet get upset when a batter pimps a HR on them. Turnabout is fair play, no?

Bautista didn't feel like he did anything wrong with the bat flip, so while he may have expected to get hit he doesn't have to agree that it's warranted. And if the ump tossed the guy, maybe he wouldn't have gone after Odor. The umpire does have the right to assume it was intentional, and it's pretty clear that it was. It's certainly happened before. So Bautista goes in hard at Odor to retaliate. Again, I have no problem with that. Odor aiming the throw at Bautista's head and the ensuing punch, that's a bit over the top to me. Fielder getting plunked SHOULD settle everything and make things even, but it probably won't. If the Rangers didn't self implode last October, none of this would have happened. Take some responsibility. It's not the Blue Jays fault, or Jose Bautista's that they couldn't close the deal. They deserve everything they got as a result.

The jays do it just as frequently as other teams do, esp historically. Aj and doc used to do ot even more frequently, back in the day.

They can piss and moan, but thats largely my point. They are bitching about something they do, themselves.

I'm getting thoroughly sick of the outrage at outrage angles, they're tired.

The anticipation of retaliation for a perceived act of disrespect adds to the theater of the game for me - I love it.

Joy, celebration...cool, fine and f'n dandy.

But..

Emotion (bat flips, a pitcher yelling after a big K) and reaction (plunking, charging the mound) aren't mutually exclusive.

If your gonna have one you're gonna get the other.

Thy really don't do it that often. They actually do play very clean.   Those two pitchers you just mentioned were pretty rough and could get away.  Buts it has been many years since  either of them were in a Jays uniform

Stroman would be our biggest wild card these days

Most teams dont do it that often.. The rangers dont, either.

But pretty much all of them do it.

So the outrage just rings hollow.

Ha, that's hilarious!  Ok, just so I understand this, one group trades barbs and taunts with each other all game and then at the end shake hands and embrace in goodwill and all the rest.  The other group holds a grudge for nearly a year, planning its revenge in wait and responds violently when an opponent celebrates by flipping a piece of wood at no one in particular.  Now, which of those is the higher standard?

Not 'outrage', just calling it what it is, pathetic and juvenile.  Don't get offended, I'm sure you're a solid cat! 



Yes, if you're 10 yrs old or a professional baseball player.  Where else is that true?  I don't know of any other sport or competitive endeavor where physical violence is considered a normal response to celebrating (or sometimes to just performing well).  I don't get why baseball is so different.  People get all over hockey with the violence and fights, but there I can at least understand the whole enforcement purpose of it.  But this shit that baseball players do is so senseless and stupid.   And this is not about me being a tree-hugging pacifist.  If a guy makes a dirty slide, then clip him in the neck when he's at bat.  But to do it for a celebration?  I'm sorry man, it's just dumb. 

My outrage at outrage comment wasn't meant towards you George, apologies.

Aimed at the talking heads who immediately take to twitter, blogs what the fuck ever outlet they choose to demand more of one type of emotion (joy/celebration) but less of getting f'n pissed and reacting.

Go back to the Mets/Cards rivalry of the mid/late 80's - Vince Coleman getting drilled for stealing a base up by 8 or Howard Johnson getting his crops dusted for Cadillac'n after a bomb.

Now that was entertainment! :D

Here's the Odor fight from his days in the minors. This time it was he that slid late at the fielder and he still was the one to go nuts and throw haymakers. Maybe he should be playing a different sport.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Wt5eZJWMELo

Lol he has the same fighting move then that he just used.  Push the guy know he will walk towards you and then sucker punch

Thing is even then he couldn't know the guys down

Keep practicing odor.  One of these days you will get the knock down

haha...

I played a lot of baseball as a youngin'... and I was taught early on you hit the ball no matter how hard and far and you run hard to first base...

That's all. So its ridiculous that these guys show up the other team and then get outraged when it happens to their team...it's comical really.

Well actually I find it equally mind boggling when a 6'10 guy dunks the basketball and screams to the high heavens for his amazing accomplishment. (ok fine i'm just jealous i cant dunk)

Yes!!  But 80 Mets/Cards get a pass.  Those guys just hated each other and generally wanted to beat the crap out of each other all the time, so any perceived slight was a convenient reason to do so.   :hihi:

Lol, I would pay at least $5 to see a one day culture switch between basketball and baseball and see what happens.  :hihi:

I was off by a game.

Looks like Odor is gonna get 8 games.

We'll see what the appeal does to that.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/making-sense-mlbs-suspensions-blue-jays-rangers/

A real good look at the suspensions that were issued and probably what should of been issued

what an horrible series the jays just had.   

The rays, who can not hit, just beat the crap out of the Jays.  Something like 36-7, over 3 games

Jays really need a change and somehow get there confidence back

Don't think the Jays are that good... no team in the AL really is.

They are going to have to make some major moves at the deadline to get over the hump, just like last year

The prospect cupboard is pretty mt however

Big series for the jays

Let's beat those evil Yankee bums!

Can't handle us right now ! lol

Nice to see the Yankees climb back to 500. This bullpen is just so much fun. ( Of course they are only effective when the starter does their job, which right now they are doing)

The Jays stink.   Expect some moves to be made very shortly

The nice thing about last night was you only had to use ONE of the 3, thanks to the tack on runs.  And Betances inning wasn't very stressful, and didn't result in a high pitch count.

I'm happy to see them at .500.  I don't expect them to be much more than that this year.

Josh Donaldson bunting under any circumstance is unacceptable....

Which really is the worst place for us to be...

I almost hope they completely tank.. so that maybe we can move a few guys... like Beltran, Gardener or Texiera.

I do hope we stay in the WC picture, because i'd like to keep Chapman and Miller for a few years. I think it's worth investing in, especially when you can't go splash cash around on other teams players like you used to. Might as well make that pen an epic strength for as long as possible.

That was a total joke.  Like he was just trying to be smart or something.   He is allowed to swing for the fences at any time

And then Joey Bats doing a half ass dive on the first hit of the game that turns into a triple    No thanks

Something is not right with the Jays and I blame the new management team from Cleaveland

6 in a row for Yankees! Maybe these old dudes could do it! Joey Bats still hurt from tht punch lol. Still early people...

Now that's more like it boys!

Go Jays!   They are the best!

At least you have the Jays to be happy about after the Raptors laid a big fat egg tonight. Blown out by almost 40.

Really disgusted with the season that Matt Harvey is having. Much of the talk is about his confidence, mentality, etc., but the guy is clearly out of shape.  He gets gassed by the 5th inning; even though he's maintaining velocity, his fatigue causes him to lose all command and so he's tossing these goose eggs right down the middle of the plate. 

Seems to be a case of a guy loving the NYC nightlife too much.  Forget a demotion to the minors, just demote his residence from Manhattan to Bayside, Queens, get him on a curfew, cut way back on the booze, problem solved.  And maybe adding a splitter to his repertoire wouldn't hurt. 

The team also gives him a free pass to ignore the media. Atleast Wright called him out on it.

Time for him to put on his big boy pants.

That I don't care about.  I know everyone in sports media are all twisted about him ignoring them (for their own self-serving reasons), but I don't see why a fan should care if he talks to reporters or not.  I just want him to pitch well. 

Sure, you want your team to win.

I think they have a responsibility to do it. You want to bask in the glory when things are going well... stand there and answer some questions when they are going bad too. It's also not fair to his teammates who have to answer questions for him. Those reporters are just trying to do their job.

Another win for the good guys!

Ugh. That was an aggravating one... can't ask for more from C.C.

Their issue is general inconsistency..has been all season.

When the pitching shows up, the offense sleeps in.  When the offense shows up (even marginally), the rotation lays an egg.

But I agree, in this case: You're not going to win many games by scoring one run.

I expect the Yanks to be a .500 team this year...maybe a bit worse.  That's who they are, I think. 

Only reason why I give them a CHANCE to be a little better than that is that outside of Beltran and Castro...nobody has really played to their potential... they can only be better most of these guys...

Or maybe thats wishful thinking. Ellsbury, Gardner, Arod, Mccann, Texiera... they cant be much worse...

Let's go Jays!  Let's beat those evil Boston bums!

Jays have Batista doing the pa during this game, since he is serving his suspension for one game.  Looks like he is having a blast introducing the batters!   
Pretty cool actually

What's going on with Chris artcher this year with Tampa.   I would just love to see him in a jays jersey.  I hope he is available.  Sell the farm to get him.  But then resign him!   Just like they should of done with price.   The point of giving up so many prospects to get a guy.  Is you have to try and sign him!   Stupid new Cleveland ex now jays front office bums

Tulo is on the 15. Game dl

Just wonder how much playing on that shitty turf in Rogers ceneter really messes him up

What a great game today.  Go jays

Price is pitching tomorrow. Should be interesting

Jays bullpen stinks.  It has to be the worst other than our closer.   So so bad.   Just horrible!!

Let's go jays lets beat those evil Yankees!   Let's beat those bums with no starting picking and no bats!

Let's go Jays!

The Yanks never hit Estrada.

Or Happ

Lets go Jays!!!   

Straight to the top!

I didn't want to admit Pilferk was right... holding out hope we start hitting...

but he was even too nice... they aren't average... they are terrible.

The Yankees adore Bret Gardner... I hope this is finally the wake up call for them.

Marlon Byrd caught using PED's for the second time and is banned for 162 games. One more time and he's history. Fucking dumbass.

Or Sanchez

Lets go Jays!

No that I got this broom out, which team is next!!!!

A great article on why Batista is so great.   I am not trading him this week

http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/jose-bautista-dominates-body-maintenance-game/

Price throw like a girl

Let's go jays!

He doesn't look too good in the early innings. He's lucky to have only given up 2 runs in the first. Though this error to start the 4th doesn't look promising. And now a hit to make it 1st and 3rd. Fenway has not been kind to him so far this year.

Lots of Jays fans made the trip to Boston. Same thing happened last year too. It rarely happens that opposing fans make their mark at Fenway, but they're making a case. 3-1 now. I'll take the double play though.

Jays fans are travelling hard this year

I booked Denver tickets nearly 7 months ago. Glad I did when I did.  Same with Seattle in September

Always seats to see the twins though s that may be next year

On our World Series parade baby!

Woohoo

Let's go jays

Osama may be the best closer in the American League east right now. 

Unreal.  He pulled out 100 mph to finish this game

Let's go jays!

Xander should've kept the bat on his shoulder the entire at bat. He was only thrown one strike, another one would have been borderline, but he should've walked to load the bases for Ortiz. Easier said then done though sitting on my couch and not in the box actually facing Osuna. He does have some good stuff. Things did get interesting in the 9th though. Sox have had their problems with Dickey this year. They have their own knuckleballer going today, so maybe that'll cool the Jays bats.

Who knows how it'll work out, but credit to Toronto for taking a shot with Jason Grilli. The Sox are in desperate need of bullpen help, and pitching in general. Who knows how much he has left in the tank, but it's a low risk move worth taking. Guy was a very good closer just a few years ago. Sox may need to make a move fast. Koji and Tazawa seem to be tiring already and it's only June. The bridge to Kimbrel is highly unstable. As bad as their rotation has been, I think the bullpen is more of a concern and easier to address. They need to get something done on that front. It's not a matter of if, but when.

Joey bats is great

2 runs scored on a strikeout passed ball!

All because Bautista never stopped running and new what he was doing.  Great play

I don't think I have ecer seen that before

Not sure I have either. Heads up for sure. The same can't be said for Steven Wright. He has to cover home there instead of just becoming a spectator. Luckily it didn't matter in the end. Once again he was close to unhittable, but his knuckleball is dancing so much that he can't keep it in the zone so he's walking 4 or 5 guys a game. Then Hanigan can't catch the knuckler so guys end up at 3rd without the benefit of a hit. Once again, it didn't cost them today. But it's frustrating. All in all, he's been such an unexpected surprise for the Sox. A 2.29 ERA from a career minor leaguer 2 months into the season qualifies as such. They've needed it too with Price's early struggles and the poor production from the 5th spot in the rotation. Could've used more than 5 innings today though. Wasn't pretty, but effective.

The sun and shadows created today must not of been fun to have to catch a knuckleball.

Jays will win tomorrow

Because

They are the best!

Talk about things you've never seen. The Yankees catcher (Romine) got hurt warming up Chapman. Had to leave the game, McCann replaced him. Chapman throws so hard he hurts his own catchers.

What did he hurt?

Injured his thumb. He's day to day, but McCann will likely catch tomorrow at the very least.

Seems plausible given how hard Chapman throws.

It was super weird. Chapman thre a warmup pitch in the dirt. Romne got caight between, tried to backhand it, and it kicked up on him. Weird thing was...romines thimb was half out the glove on the backhand. Looks like the glove slippd off? Took romine right to the base of the thumb. Freaking hurts when you're playing catch, never mind trying to grab a 98 mph lawn dart.

Damn that green monster is big

Not big enough though baby!

Woohoo Joey bats!

Let's go jays!

Lincecum should be making his Angels debut sooner than later.

I think the Blue Jays will be in first place in short order. They've appeared to put it all together after struggling the first few months. They're hitting now, and they send a quality starter out there every day. That's the major difference between them and the Orioles and Red Sox. Their bullpen is good, but not great. Their biggest weakness in my mind. Osuna is good, but the 2 games he saved over the weekend he very nearly blew. Far from clean. The O's have a very good pen, and power up and down the lineup, but their starters leave a lot to be desired. The Red Sox pitching is bad right now, there's no way around it. Price has been better, but not dominant. Steven Wright has been great. Porcello has been ok, but the other starters haven't proven themselves to this point. Kimbrel has been great, but the rest of their relievers have been inconsistent at best. So it may be a 3 team race over the summer, but I do think the Jays have the best roster by a pretty good margin at this point. We'll see what moves are made to see if that changes.

Yikes tonight was not the jays night. 

Come on to row!

As a fan of the other team in the AL East... the really old/ bad one... so I am not really biased in this discussion...

I think Boston is the best of the bunch... It's probably close... but I trust them more.

Stroman is my least favorite player in baseball right now... just killing me in fantasy...

They could be. I'm not counting them out, despite their recent rash of injuries and beyond poor pitching. The Red Sox offense is every bit as good as Toronto's, maybe better. But right now Toronto's pitching is better by a good margin. I think both teams need to, and probably will make some moves to improve. We'll see how they shape up at that point. The Yankees are pretty much unbeatable when leading after 6 and hopeless if they're down after 6. For the most part, I do realize the opposite happened the last two games. But their offense leaves a lot to be desired. They got old real fast. It'll be interesting to see if the Yankees turn into sellers this year.

Let's not sleep on Baltimore either. Buck Showalter is a damn good manager. Gets the most out of his players. So even though they're reliant on the HR and have a poor rotation, they should remain in the mix.

Agreed all around for the most part.

I'd like to see the Yankees move some guys... but it will really sting to see Miller and Chapman go...I'd prefer to keep them for the long haul. Miller has been about as good as a free agent signing as you can get... but they might not be able to pass on what contending teams are willing to give up for him, considering he is signed for 2.5 more years.

I'd love to see them try to move Beltran, Mccann and Gardner (nobody will touch Ellsbury)... a team like the Indians could really use Beltran's stick.

Losing Greg Bird was a killer for the yanks...

Will the Yankees unload a lot of there great relief pitching this year at the deadline?   What was the point of trading for Chapman?

I think the Jays have beyond the best line up in baseball.

A lot of the hitters are just turning it around actually, statistically and if they come close to there career numbers, the second half for the Jays will be fantastic

Plus

Once the deadline comes and goes and the Jays, pick up some speed, another first baseman and some relief pitching

Plus

Start playing all these teams that

1)  Have dumped all there talent cause they are out of it (New York)
2)  Players statistics come down to career numbers, as they are super hot now (Boston's hitting, Batimore)

The Jays will win it all baby!!!!

WooHoo

The Yankees don't like to admit they are not contenders, it's more important to ownership that they appear to be doing all they can to fill seats...even if real fans know that they need to tear everything down... and they have played worse at every position this year more than they could have imagined... so it's all blowing up in their face.

Most fans say rebuild rebuild rebuild but then won't go to the stadium to see the young players lose. There are a lot of options in New York... only the Knicks sell out every game no matter how awful the team is. Plus, the Mets are real good now, so the Steinbrenners are sensitive to that... they don't want to lose sponsors.

They also gave up nothing to get Chapman. So it's not like it didn't make sense to add him during the offseason.

It was actually a really smart move (like CRAZY smart) IMHO, and (depending on what happens next) might actually be one of the smartest things Cashman has done in awhile.

They gave up nothing of any value.

They basically didn't have to pay him while he was suspended for his domestic violence issue.

They took all the risk, in terms of people not knowing if he would be available to pitch for most of this year, etc, etc, etc.

If they'd been a contender, they could use him. If his suspension had been "too long" it would have moved his FA clock, and they might have gotten him next year, too.

NOW, they could probably flip him at the deadline, for a TON of prospects and maybe one MLB ready player, to a contender in desperate need of a closer....essentially turning nothing into some very valuable stuff.

That's what I would do..and hold on to Miller (2 more years at 12 per, which is pretty reasonable) and Betances. 

The other option would be to let Miller go and try to sign Chapman off season, with Betances as your back up plan at closer.  That's riskier, but Miller might actually yield more in return, since he'd basically have 2.5 years of service at a reasonable pay rate.

Either way, the Yanks are dealing from a position of strength.  That's not where they usually find themselves come the deadline.

11 runners left on base!

Then they pitch to detroits best hitter!  Give him his fave pitch. Why?   Why do they always pitch to the other team best hitter.   Walk them!   

Total bs

Kc is a dirty team

Especially that tooth pick that was picking tonight.

Glad to see him get knocked down by a almost missed punch.

Guess he met a guy that was big enough to knock him down.   

Let's go Giants

lol I love these late games. But even being close to the west coast (mountain time).  They sure get late!

Bed in 30 mins for me

If the Yankees could play the Angels 140 times...we'd be alright... haha!

Beltran has gotta make the all star team... guy is enfuego.

I just picked him up in fantasy yesterday. Paid off. Hope he can keep it going.

And....Parmalee is hurt for the Yanks.

You gotta start to wonder if Nick Swisher is dealing in the dark arts...and building voodoo dolls of the rest of the possible organizations 1st base depth chart.

Which is now pretty much down to 3 guys.

Yankees are going to have to get fat the next couple of weeks with the schedule the way it is.

You miss Teixeira's glove... but honestly.. it could be Swisher, Refsnyder, Parmalee or Pilferk... and they will all do more at bat than he was giving us. 

I hope they run off 14 out of 17 or lose 14 out of 17... they are 30-30. If they are 40-40...we are screwed.

Lincecum makes his debut for the Angels on Saturday against the A's.

I don't blame Girardi for any of the Yankee shortcomings...and of course there is no DH spot in Denver

but take a look at the lineup he put together for today...

 :rant:

He's trying to make sirloin out of dog shit.

I agree, the lineup sucked.  But given who he has on the 40 (and who's hurt), and the fact he's got guys in the lineup that just can't play 140 games..or even 120 games (due to age or being injury prone)..he's gotta find them time off.  It sucks.

I've said it over and over: They are a .500 team, at best.  They are going to hover right around there for most of the season, I think.  That's the team Cashman has built.

The really frightening part of all this? They are 3 losses (yes, they have a shit ton of teams to leap frog, too) out of a wild card spot.

And a month away from the trade deadline.

If they keep going at this rate...or if they have another hot streak that gives "hope"....they'll either be buyers OR stand still at the deadline. Ughhhh....

What do you think about a Chapman/ Soler swap?

I like it... would have to clear Gardner out of here.

Jays sure are looking good

Not worth it.

First, not enough value for Chapman (or Miller).

Second..you're moving one player off the field (Gardner) for...the exact same player (Soler). At least so far.  Maybe you think Soler has more of an upside, and Gardner's not having a career year, for sure.  But...at the end of the day..you're trading (in terms of on the field position) a proven, older light hitting .250 hitter with speed and good to great defense for an unproven, younger light hitting .250 hitter with speed and good to great defense.  For a stud closer.  Nope...not worth it...not even for the extra 2 years and 6 mil per savings.

Because you're not going to get quality starting pitching for Gardner. Or quality infield help.  "That guy" (Gardner/Soler) is easy to find around the league (and thus, why Soler isn't worth Chapman or Miller).  You're going to get a AA midrange prospect with potential, but unproven in MLB or you're going to get a journeyman defensive infielder (a la Brendan Ryan, but at 1st or 3rd).  There's no real value for moving him out...so unless you're replacing him with a STUD futures prospect out there (and that's not Soler)....what's the point?

They need infield help and starting pitching (either MLB or almost MLB ready).  Their outfield is fine.  I get the frustration with Gardner.  He's inconsistent, and not very aggressive on the basepaths (which, IMHO, is at least partly because of coaching...and Soler would face similar hurdles).   But, in the grand scheme of things...he's making 11/12 per, which is pretty much in line with what he's "worth".  Yeah, you get Soler for 4/5 per, and he's much younger....but you also don't have any idea of what you're ultimately going to get.  That can't be what you're going after for your big chip, when you have leverage in the market. Soler likely isn't a difference maker next year vs having Gardner in the same position.

Definitely wouldn't move Miller for anything less than the farm.

It seems like the Yankees are intent on moving Chapman... and I only really brought up Soler because that is what is being rumored.

Everything you said about Gardner is true... I am just done with him...

Oh boy the jays are looking good

Let's go jays
Let's go double E

J.D. Martinez suffered a pretty bad injury tonight banging into the OF wall. Not good for the Tigers or my fantasy team. It's hard to replace his production.

Yeah, I've seen the rumors.  I have to think they're just Cubs wishful thinking.  If Cashman made that deal, he'd prove he's the 2nd worst GM on the planet (because nobody is worse than whoever is GM'ing every year in Miami). But, hell, given the way I feel he's GM'd the team the past 5 years or so, thats probably exactly the deal he'd make. But it would be a BAD deal.  It gets them nothing they need, and it means then trading a player that's not really worthy anything else of real value.

I'm OK with Gardy for what he is: A streaky hitter with speed who has a remarkable glove.  Hell, I'm much more frustrated with Ellsbury and his inability to stay on the field OR manage to throw the ball more than 10 feet. THAT deal kills me.

Please... don't get me started on Ellsbury. They both aggravate the hell out of me for different reasons, and they are so similar .. that pisses me off too. obviously Ellsbury and his contract makes it worse.

I miss Mr. Cano.

We will over pay everybody else's good players...but won't over pay our own GREAT player. (Can't blame Cano for taking the deal, but why we drew such a hard line ..i'll never understand)

The Red Sox did the same thing with Lester. Got outbid by the Cubs and a year later paid about 100 million more for Price. Price has been better lately, but Lester's contract is more team friendly. Teams always think the grass is greener on the other side, but as Tom Keifer of Cinderella wails "you don't know what you got, till it's gone".

From the outside looking in, I was dumbfounded they nickel and dimed Lester...

The guy is underrated imo... real competitor.

Yeah, they weren't too smart with that one. They figured he'd take a hometown discount and made him an insultingly low offer the year before he hit free agency. At the time, they were in that philosophy of not signing pitchers over 30 to long term deals. They've since scrapped that idea. But at the time he fell in that range. They realized the error in their ways and did end up making him a legitimate offer, but the damage was probably already done and Cubs offered more. Last year wasn't great for Lester, but he's off to a great start this year. I still think he's more of high end #2 more than an ace, but he's certainly capable of pitching like one.

Saints is. Hitting machine! 

And to think these new ex Indian office guys were trying trade him in the off season

Best no trade ever

So Cashman has said if the Yankees are dead in the water in 6 weeks he'll tell Hal to sell. Of course Hal says he won't and is adamant we'll be right in the thick of things in mid July. I'd like to know what the hell he's smoking and where i can get some. It must be some good shit cause this current Yankee team is going nowhere fast. If he's smart he will listen to Cashman on this one.

I agree (though I'm loathe to let CASHMAN do the selling, to be honest).

That being said: With the 2nd wildcard, it has become increasingly difficult to be "out of it" by the trade deadline.  For example, as mediocre as they've been, they are only a few games from a playoff spot.  If they're still there in 6 weeks, you're going to have a hard time convincing ownership to sell the farm.

And yes...we're talking about the Yanks being "satisfied" with being a few games out of a wild card spot.

I miss the BOSS.

Me too.

And I've been a fan for a LONG time (late 70's/early 80s, watching games with my dad).  There were times, prior to the early 90's, when I didn't think there was any way in hell I'd ever, ever feel that way!!

Falcon, am I seeing this correctly, Cards just SWEPT the stinking Cubs?  NICE!   :beer:

Yep, all is right in the world again. ;)

Now the Cards are on the verge of getting broomed by the Mariners, sheesh..

Doing my best to refrain on my rants of despise on interleague play but the above is only throwing gas on the fire... >:(

Off
  To
 
Denver!

3 games.

Let's go jays!

Home from Denver yesterday. Great city and ballpark to watch ball.  I was very impressed.

Even though there was a 4 hr rain delay on a game that started at 7.  Haha. I didn't get back to my hotel till 230 am that night.  How I got home I don't remember.  Drinks were going down good

Glad the Mets could contribute to the cause with a Cubs sweep of their own this weekend!    : ok:

Hell ya George, the Mets doing the part to keep the baseball world on it's proper axis! :yes:

Did you get to see Jon Gray pitch for the Rox Bacon?

He's the nephew of the chick who cuts my hair - true story.

They call it the mile high city for a reason.  After discovering some of that and drinkin since 8 am and games that started at 7   It's all a bit of a blur haha

Holly crap so this is what it is like to have a healthy mind and body tulo.   Damn has his bat been on fire recently and it's finally looking like he is feeling at home in Toronto.   We are killing kc.  They def do not look like World Series champs.    And the Jays do not even have Batista back yet. 

4 Jays to the all star game as well.  Woohoo. 

We all know the Jays are the greatest team in the world.  Woohoo

Sweeping the "world series champs" is great!!!

Now winning it, will be even better!

Home field in the World Series was determined by an exhibition game in a National League park where the AL team was the home team.  :rant: :no: :-[ ::) ??? >:(

Wtf was up with that? I didn't pay close enough attention. Why would the AL be the home team in an NL park that just preposterous.

They have 4 straight All Star games played in an NL park for some reason, so they're alternating the home team each year. Not sure why they couldn't find an AL city to host.

That's just stupid as hell.

I can see why the next two are in Miami and DC though, very new stadiums and neither team has hosted a game before. That'll leave the Rays as the only team to not host one yet. I don't see the Rays getting one until they get a new stadium.

Unofficial second half starts for the Jays tonight

I would like to see them add another starter and and other relief pitcher

A vet for relief

And either sonny grey or Chris Artcher for starters

Other than that I think the Jays are hugely set. Especially considering we are getting Batista back soon. 

Look for the Jays to win it all baby!

Woohoo

Go Jays!

Did you guys see the news today about that Cardinals' scouting director who illegally accessed a Houston Astro online scouting database a while back?  He got 4 years in prison!  4 fucking years!!  That is just nuts.  There should certainly be consequences for that sort of thing, maybe a lifetime baseball suspension, but 4 years in jail seems obscenely excessive for stealing baseball secrets.  Geez...

Lol yes there has to be more to it than that

I should gard my computer for all the Jays scouting I do

Hope the jays can put a package together for Chris Sale.   Seems he is on the outs. 

Speaking of being on the outs.  Bye bye Drew Storen.

When I saw him in Colorado.  I said to him. Hey Drew.  Everyone know you don't want to be here. Why don't you just leave. You stiff!   He pretended he didn't hear me.  But he was within arms reach of me.   Haha.  He could taste the coors light on my breath.     Total bum!

Highly unlikely Bac, but exiling him to Toronto would be proper punishment for his actions yesterday. ;)

Looks like the Yanks are getting ready to get fleeced by the Cubs for Chapman.

Torres is an A ball suspect and not nearly enough if an extension is in place as rumored.

Maybe the Yanks are just cutting bait on guy they never should've screwed with in the first place...

Tim, pilf - thoughts?

Cashman sucks?

Actually, chapman said earlier hat, if traded, he really want to come back to the yanks in fa.

So, if there is a wink wink nudge ndge for chapman and the yanks next year, and its 5 weeks of chapman forTorres, its still a bad deal, but not quite as bad.

If, though, there is a 1 year extension included in the deal....its cashman being stupid, again. Its mot going to help the yanks, at all. Not this year, not next, and maybe not ever.

Edit: not to mention, with didi under eam control for awhile, you would have to groom Him to play out of position at second, or more likely 3rd.

The rumor is 4 years at 60 for the extension per the usual suspects on twitter, nothing concrete.

If no extension, the Cubs walk away or lighten the end of an already light deal from their end.

Rumour up north here is the jays are heavy into chapman as well.  As well as cece. 

Perhaps a package


I will still take Chris archer.   Hear he is you out la way though

Sale would be a perfect. 

I could package a deal.  If the jays let me.   I have a few guys in mind.  Top ends.

This is the jays last years for 5

Official.

I love it if the Yankees follow through and don't half ass this fire sale.

Trade em all.

Report says Yankees discussed extension with him but he wanted to be FA.

Looks like Upton is going to the Jays.  I don't really get this move

So it looks like letting go Daniel Murphy to trade for Neil Walker worked out great for the Mets...   :crying:

What a win for the Jays last night!!!!

Upton trade is looking better to me now that I can read more about it.  Padries picked up a huge portion of his wage

Cya Storen you horrible bum!  I hope you fail even worse in Seattle.  You stink!!

I don't know if he'll actually be productive or not, but...he's SOOO CHEAP, both in terms of $$ and what they gave up to get him from the Padres...if he doesn't work out, you release him, let the Padres pay him the bulk of the contract, and pony up the little bit left.

And if he does work out, he's a nice addition to the offense.

He brings speed to the line up.  Jays needed that. 

Dickey is done.  Get rid of him

Batista trade rumors are heating up here.....  I wouldn't do it.  Even if they do not want to resign him, do not trade him!!!!!   We need some bat flips during the playoffs

For anyone that actually watches baseball.  And doesn't just look at the stats

I think I have watched 75 percent of every inning of the jays this year


Sure we are all busy

Sure it is summer

 Blah blah blah. 

I can watch the jays 24-7.  I can watch ball 24-7. On my phone.  On my tablet.  At work

I am a solo dad of two kids and I can make it work

Go jays

I've watched, or listened to on the radio, about 60% of the yanks innngs this year. The kate night west ciast games are just beyonb my ability to stay awake, and sometimes theres just other/better stuff to do. :). And even then i chevk out innings here snd there by channel flipping or via my phone and mob gameday audio.

90 to 100 games is usually my average per season, plus playoffs. :)

Let's go jays m Baltimore has zero pitching. Let's go jays

Baltimore is full of crime because I watche the TV show the wire.  So that means the ball team stinks !

Go jays !

I'll be pulling for the Jays for one more day until they take over first. Hoping the Red Sox can get their act back in gear and pass both the O's and Jays again eventually. Very short lived time in first there. I liked it while it lasted.

Price still doesn't look right in that jersey

He's had kind of a tough season. Hasn't been bad, but he certainly hasn't pitched like the ace they're paying him to be. He's had some bad luck along the way. Seems when he does pitch well, they don't hit for him. But he's been a bit of a disappointment. Porcello had trouble adjusting to pitching in Boston last year too and he's been much better this year. So I'm hoping Price can turn it around similarly.

1st place finally!!!dqmn it feels good

Let go Jays.  The greatest ball team on the planet!

There goes Miller!

Credit to Cashman for this .

Send everybody.

Well, the yanks have offcally given up. Whch is not all that surprising.

I expect mccann, beltran, and gardner to go next.

And arod to be dfad.

And them to suck for the next 5 years, while exactly zero of these prospects see mlb time with the yanks.

Cash has gotta go.

Well that's not the most optimistic view!  ;D

At least they are doing the right thing here . As far as which prospects pan out or don't ... Who knows.

The chapman move was the right move.

The miller move is stupid as fuck if you plan to be a contender in the next couple years. He was effective and cheap.

So, either cash is stupid as fuck, or they dont plan to ge contenders any time soon. These Prospects dont help you in the next 3-5 years, really. And the biggest prospects theyve taken in are blocked my stupid cash deals (ellsbury) for awhile, too.

Its maddening. He has got to go.

I do not mind the Miller trade

Relief pitchers are easliy replaced

New York has the benifit of being New York.  Players always seem to land there.   Sign a free agent relief guy.  Done

If you are going to rebuild go all in. Half hearted rebuilds never work and you get nothing out of it. 

But if the Yankees do suck for the next 5 years I really don't mind too much!   It is kinda hard to imagine them sucking any more than recent times though haha

While I agree that Cashman has done an awful job over the past few years with certain deals. Ellsbury/ Cano will haunt me forever.

I don't see the point in holding on to Miller at this point in time and they appear to have gotten a nice package.

I rarely agree with Bacon but relievers are a year to year thing. They can replace his production very easily with a Melancon in free agency or a guy like him if they so choose. Heck maybe they even can bring back Chapman.

I have no real issue with their recent struggles. No Yankee fan is going to give back the World Series arod Tex and sabbathia won for us. We all knew we'd pay the price on the back end for it.

Plus they were in the wild card game last year it hasn't been atrocious.

Time for the full re build. I'm all for it. Should Cashman be in charge of it ? That's another issue... But he isn't going anywhere so that is moot.

They should cut bait with everybody. Release them if need be. Except ellsbury because it's impossible.

I tend to watch or listen to most NL Cardinal games and home interleague games.

I'll keep track of scores on away interleague games but rarely tune in, my personal protest against interleague play in general... :rant: >:(

Sure hope Tulo isn't out for long.  Or the Jays are screwed

Its a nice package of prospects that.....are stuck behind established players and who might not make it to mlb.

Miller is a quality reliever signed for the next 2 seasons, cheap. While you can replace him, you cant replace him at that salary, which means directing resources you need in other places toward a place where you already had a strength. The yanks payroll is hamstrung enough by bad cash deals.

That, to me, means they dont think they need that quality relever for the next 2 years. They have basically already resigned themselves to sucking for awhile.

My point is that sucking can be laid squarely at the feet of cash.

I get arod, sab, and tex.

But headly was over paid by a shit ton. Ellsbury was overpaid and uneccessay, cano was left to walk away, mccann is just blockng prospects. Its not just the back end of the ws deals. Most of those players are gone.

Its all their moves that have hamstrung the team. Despite all evidence to the contrary, cash insisted on going old and big $, long after the keague was going the other way.

I agree, its time to cut bait and rebuild (and releae arod and take the hit). But its time for cash to go, and let someone else do it. And its def time for him to stop saying shit like "we are in position to build a super team"...just be honest. You are rebuilding. I know thsts gonna suck when it comes to ticket sales, but everyone who really follows the team knows thats what the fire sale means.

Time to clean house get rid of everyone you can by the deadline tomorrow. Release A-Rod. Anyone you can't trade by the deadline do it after the season. Beltran, McCann, Ellsbury, Gardner, Nova and Evoldi are the ones i'd unload.

I was surprised the Yanks dealt Miller. Like pilferk said, they had him under control for years to come, he has no problem closing of setting up, and his contract is a bargain by today's standards. Which infuriates me to this day the Red Sox didn't match the Yankees offer for him because they were all set with a 40 year old closer and didn't want to pay that much for a setup man. But that's another story. I really didn't think they'd deal Miller. It looks like they got a good package in return. That CF sounds like he's the real deal. Fans may be hoping he replaces Ellsbury long before his contract runs out. I'm not convinced they've completely learned their lesson and will go into complete rebuild mode though. I know they've sat out the last few years in free agency, but with all this money coming off the books can they control themselves? The Red Sox couldn't. They tried, it lasted a few years and then they overspent on Hanley and Pablo. Then they threw a mountain of cash at Price. Luckily they have a great farm system to fall back on. The Yanks are in the process of building theirs up, but can they refrain from handing out bad contracts to replace the ones they're ridding themselves of? That remains to be seen.

God i hope so. The Steinbrenner sons are letting Cashman become too much like their dad.

I thought miller was making millions and was 31.   Not really a age for a rebuild

And what does New York care about money anyways.   That's always there thing

Cheap not cheap. Who cares there.   

Texas and the Dodgers made out very good today

I am fearing for the jays

And there goes Beltran and Nova.

Because it's a brave new world with the increased luxury tax penalties that are cumulative, and don't reset until you can get under 189 for a season.  The Yanks have increasingly talked budget more than winning.  So, to them, it matters.

Given there's a budget, money that goes for your closer doesn't go toward, say, a quality third baseman.

Miller is making 9 million per for the next 2 years (2017 and 2018).  That's for his age 32 and 33 season which, in terms of effectiveness, is the PERFECT time to let a player go play the UFA game, because it's after 33 for pitchers that you typically see decline.   He is, literally, the perfect closer in terms of effectiveness, price, and age to contract duration.

You can not find a top end closer, with his effectiveness, in FA for that amount.

So, I say again: Stupid or planning to suck for the next 3 years.

Yeah, Texas and Cleveland have seemingly separated from the pack in the AL. It's still a 3 team race in the East. Whichever 2 teams lose out should battle for wild card slots with the likes of Houston and Detroit, who's had a bit of a resurgence of late.

The Red Sox didn't make any big deals today, but they made their deals in the weeks leading up to the deadline. Pomeranz hasn't been too good so far. Ziegler has been very good. They tried for Beltran to help stabilize their LF situation, but the Yanks were unlikely to deal him to Boston. And they were unwilling to unload their top prospects for short term gains. So, they've decided to call up one of those guys tomorrow. Andrew Benintendi, who they drafted just last year, is making the jump straight from AA. Kid has a lot of promise, I just hope he's ready. Maybe he'll provide a spark to a recently struggling offense.

You never know. They restocked that farm system and then some. They could flip those prospects for some proven MLB players in the off season. Make some smart free agent signings and they're right back at it. I do agree with you on Miller. I would've held onto him. They better hope they got that one right. The rest of the deals made perfect sense to me, but that one could hurt.

That's the only one that really bugs me.

Chapman, they turned a hand full of magic beans and a few million bucks into quality prospects.  The SS thing is a little odd, but..he was probably the single best prospect available to them from all the teams that were interested, so it's hard to fault that.

The Beltran deal makes total sense.  The guy is a FA at the end of the year and is going to a contender.  The Yanks aren't going to need him this year..and, in fact, it would be better to be TERRIBLE than it would be to continue to be mediocre for the rest of this year.  For 2 months of rental they got 3 very solid prospects under team control 5eva.

The Nova deal, likewise, doesn't feel like a huge loss.  I mean...a lot of that depends on who "TBNL x2" turn out to be, but...even if they are medium level prospects...Nova was an inconsistent piece of the puzzle, anyway, and probably replaceable in the rotation from their farm system going forward, never mind via FA signing.

But the Miller deal is the one that makes zero sense to me.  It's the classic Cashman over-reach.  It makes zero sense UNLESS you figure that you're going to be terrible for the next 2 to 3 years.

I mean....if you're HONESTLY trying to build a "super team" (that Cash comment makes me want to throw things at him), Miller would be the cornerstone of the bullpen of that team any time soon.

Hearing strong rumors A-Rod is on his way out the door by the end of the season. Good riddance.

Mark Teixeira has called a presser for 3 PM today.  Apparently going to announce his retirement, effective at the end of this season.

Wow, I did NOT see that coming!

Jays are moving to a 6 man rotation for the rest of the season   

This is all to save the arm of our young stud Sanches   Who is in the running for the CY YOUNG.

Jays have the best pitching in the East.  Which I havnt been able to say for a very long time

We have this new/old lefty starting tonight for us, that we got from the pirates.

He is actually our highest paid starter right now, but is said to have lost it.

KC is a pitcher friendly park and KC stinks this year   So its a good place to break him in

Go Jays!!!

Just saw that, never a fan of his but had a good career.

And before anyone brings it up, he's (IMO) not smelling the HOF.

Agreed, probably needed 1-200 more homeruns to be seriously considered.

Agree.

While he has some "best evers" for a switch hitter, he doesnt have the career numbers to get him n. If he had not injured that wrist...maybe.  And he's not so far outsde thst he cant see the doors...but he still has to buy a ticket, i think.

He's Tino Martinez. Whch is a way above average player, but not hof.

Yeah definitely a couple hundred homers shy.

Big win for the Jays tonight

Good showing from our new lefty

Now time to watch the opening of the Olympics

Go Jays

Go Canada!

Yankees and A-Rod have called a presser for 11 am tomorrow. Looks like he's next to be kicked out the door.

I hear retirement, but he stays ths year. But still...big $ savings for the yanks next year!

Hopefully we're smart with it and don't just go and try to buy another title.

So.....Friday, not end of season. Interesting....

Now McCann is on his way out the door. He's cleared waiver paving the way for a trade.

Jays really need to get there offence going! 

Hopefully being back at home helps the boys out

We'll see.

Yanks put 5 or 6 big contract players on waivers every year, just in case a trade deal crops up.

Given he's the last of the big $$ contracts (well, Ellsbury, but...lets face it...he's going nowhere), it wouldn't surprise me if they shopped him around a bit to see if they can find any takers. I'm just not sure there's a market out there for him, all things considered.

As far as A-Rod being a "Special Advisor" until Dec 2017, what horrible jobs can they give him, with the goal of making him quit so that they don't have to pay him the rest of his contract?

My understanding is that once a player is released, they are paid what ever is owed.  I would think this special advisor thing is above and beyond that.  Perhaps its scouting jays games from the bar.  I would be good at that one!

It's going to be interesting to see.

This is what the Yankees are saying right now...that A-rod will be paid the remainder of his player contract through 2017.

BUT, there are provisions in the CBA for vacating a player contract due to voluntary (ie: non injury related) retirement.

Now, not very many players have ever taken advantage of this provision.  They just don't file papers until their contract is up because...why would you?

That being said, if he did file papers on, say, Dec 31st, 2016....it sure seems like the Yanks would NOT owe him his 2017 wages, even in an MLB guaranteed contract.

In that case, if it converted to a Front Office contract....he would be paid the same amount, but as a "special advisor".

I suspect that the Yanks might try to float this, but are gearing up for a fight with MLB and maybe the MLBPA.  That was what I was hearing going INTO the presser, yesterday, but they seemed to have changed course at some point before hand.  We'll see...

There is a huge difference between retiring and released.

I am pretty sure Arod will not be walking away from 30 million.   

I am not sure why the Yankees just do not release him all together and cut ties with him.   Not sure the value of paying him 30 million to still be involved in the org   It would make better sense to pay him 30 million just to go away.   Unless they have something up there sleaves

That's exactly the point.

They are releasing him Friday.  IF he decides to retire before Dec 31st, 2016, THEN they would not be responsible for the remainder of the contract, in terms of luxury tax.

And I agree: Why release him only to give him a job in the organization if you're only going to have to pay him out his player contract.  Makes no sense to me. Easier to just show him the door.

Zero reason the Jays shouldn't sweep Tampa this series.  Good game last night

Great seeing Baltimore loose!  woohoo

Go Jays

Looks like Prince Fielder is done, due to his nevk injury. Docs wont clear him to play.

Love or hate Arod ... I'm gunna miss him ...

Him Bonds and Griffey are all top 10 type players. It's been fun.

I'd love to clear out McCann and Gardner.

We have been hearing about Sanchez for what feels like a decade let's see what he can do every day and hopefully next year the outfield looks like Frazier in left, Judge in right and everybody's favorite one year wonder Ellsbury in center. With Bird hopefully fully recovered at first.

C'mon...Ellsbury will play like 70 games next year.  Someone else will be out there the other 90.

I also don't think Gardy is going anywhere.  Maybe, we'll see.  He's got 2 more at 12 per, which is pretty affordable. He can play all 3 outfield positions (and with Ellsbury in center, that's a big pro).  If they clear out McCann, one of the guys you mentioned probably ends up at DH, unless they go out and sign one for next year.

I'll take the youngsters in position play next year, if they can manage to figure out an actual, functional, rotation.

Well it is official, Prince Fielder is done. Such a shame. Hate to see a player go out like that.

I've seen enough of Bret Gardner and since he has a reasonable deal he should be easy to move. I don't need to see him
and Ellsbury get blown away back to back in the 8th inning by the other teams best lefty ever again. From our discussion you seem to be more of a fan than I am.

Agreed on the rotation ... Tanaka and Severino are the only guys I care to see in the rotation next year... Eovaldi and Pineda are what they are ... I think the word I'm looking for is .... Infuriating.


And if there is a god..... Please please please stop making me watch Aaron Hicks every day.

And Evoldi just left the game with an elbow problem.

Paging Mr john? Paging mr. Tommy john?

Oh, i'm not a huge fan!

But hs numbers are decent given his deal. He will never be spectacular, but hes solid enough to hold on to while they rebuild, and yet not likely to bring in the jackpot if traded. Bhe can play all 3 outfield positins, and is a good backup cf when the bury inevitably gets hurt.

Hes a cheaper version off Ellsbury, whch is why i never understood that deal.

In your scenario, the problem isnt gardner, its ellsbury, and girardi's insistence they bat 1/2, instead of 1/8 or 1/7.

He is the "you cant have all stars at every position (unless you stuff the ballot box)" player. Cheap and solid.

And in 2 years, you wave goodbye and wish him well.

Could be, he's heading back to New York to be examined.

I'll eat a horse apple if its not. All the classic signs. Discomfort, big velo drop (about 3/4 mph), no bite on his pitches.

Well if there's ever a good time for it to happen it is now. We're pretty much resigned to sucking for awhile. So it won't be a huge loss. Maybe Tanaka should have his done too since we know he's going to need it at some point being he's already got that small tear.

Oh to be in first feels so good

Feels even better when all the enemies loose!!!  woohoo

Sitting in a sports bar very close to the guns stadium tonight

On the tv right now is the blue Jays bs Houston game. 

Surrounded by Canadians.  Blues Jays fans and guns n roses fans

Everyone cheering for the best band in the world and the best team in the world. 

I had to share this.   Epic.

Looks like i might be chewing horse crap. They say tendon, not ligament, but hes going for a second opinion.

Severino aside ...

It was fun watching the Yankees this weekend. Judge is such a big boy ... Lol

Well Bacon ... I hate ur opinions on baseball ... But how was the concert? Haha

Was a really solid show, glad I went. 

Was definitely a bucket list moment for me to see this band in this form ...

Hope the evil empire bumps you guys off 2 out of 3 this week  : ok:

I hear guns is going to play during the world series, right after the Jays wins it all!!

hahaha, just something I heard

Baby bombers continuing to make their presence felt...

Jays with runners in scoring position stink!!!!

Smoak stinks, why did we sign him for 2 more years, ugh!!!!   

Need a win tonight for the good guys!

Maybe not, looks like he i done for the next year.

Yup. And he requires not ONE but TWO surgeries to repair it.

Ughhh.

Bacon....this one s for you! I literally  :rofl: at it

https://twitter.com/yesnetwork/status/765684847863922688

Haha

Just like the Yankess, they are a couple of jobbers!

I think the jays forgot this series was televised though.  And also forgot there bats at home!  Ugh

I got ONE word to describe those Jays tonight....and i'm gonna spell. It. Out.

S-A-W-F-T........sssssssssaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwffffffffffttttttttttt!

So he's basically gone for probably 2 years at least?

Greatest rain delay ever!

Yankees bullpen is full of a bunch of stiffs!  And jubronies  hahah

Woohoo. Let's go jays

This 8th inning keeps getting better!

The bum Yankees are going to have zero arms for tomorrow afternoons game! 

Wooooooooohooooooo

He will likely never pitch for the Yanks again, considering contract status, etc.

He will miss the rest of this season, and ALL of next season, for sure.  Even 2018 is in doubt, since the last person who had a similar issue didn't throw an MLB pitch for 2 years.  We'll see.

It's funny...I knew as soon as I hit post I was gonna regret that one, even up 6-0.

The yanks middle relief are certified B and bona fide bums....

...and you can't. teach. that.

 

Nah, they'll be fine.  You basically saw (with the exception of Clippard) the underside of the Yanks bullpen. These are guys they literally keep around to use up, and send down to the minors.  They'll have a whole new pen of bums by tomorrow afternoon.

Another series win for the good guys!   Lets keep the win train rolling!

Go Jays!

So many teams in the race this year.  It's going to be an exciting sept

Big series coming up for the Jays agains the Indians.   When did the Indians become good?  My brain can't handle this Hahahaha

Canada won bronze in the 100m relay after the evil Americans got kicked out for cheating

Bad enough gatlin is aloud to sprint still.  The guy is 35 and has some how found a way to get faster

Great clean games Canada !   

I just loved these events

WOW!!!!  After this baseball post you should be hired by ESPN. Best baseball report ever  :rofl:

Hahahaha. 

I would be a pretty good sports reporter I think.  I am always right.   My opinions are the best.  Probably why I like you :)

Jays blew a very important series this weekend.   Probably cause you are in LA.  Get back over seas haha

So the Rangers have released Josh Hamilton.

Let's go Rays.  Beat those goofy Red Sox!!!

Jays have to sweep this series.  What's the angles problem this year?  Can't see troute being there much longer

Major rumblings.   Votto to the Jays.   

Damn I hope this pans out

Let's go Jays

Let's go Tampa!

Let's go Tampa.  Let's beat those goofy Red Sox !!!   Jays are going to kill the Angels tonight.  First place is all ours. 

Let's not go Red Sox

Let's go Jays!

Jays really need to get there bats back

Traded for Navarro today.   He will be a great addition   Solid back up Cather and is a switch hitter

Let's go Jays

Also I hope KC beats those goofy Boston stink sox!!!

The last three weeks have been the most enjoyable time watching the Yankees for me since 2009. Minus that awful rain delay game.

I just wish Greg Bird was around.

I haven't been watching but i hear Sanchez is just tearing it up.

I would love for them to get on a even hotter Straak an make the wild card and then face the Jays.  As New York sucks and the Jays could beat them with ease.   Ha!

Go Jays

Agree on both counts.

Watching the whippersnappers excel is always fun, and watching the oldsters actually have to bust their asses for play time....also fun.  It's made the whole team better.

I still think there is no earthly way they sniff the WC this year, but.....It's nice to see them actually be competitive and dynamic and exciting to watch.

I don't think so either ... but at least they play the teams they need to quite a bunch. So it is in reach even if not probable, and it is a great experience for these guys.

If they could somehow someway pull a Chris Sale deal, next year could be fun.

Another great win for the Jays tonight in Baltomore.   Huge series's for the good guys as we can put a ton of distance between us and the stiffs

Sorta reminds me of last year at this time and the Jays went to stinky New York and destroyed those ugly Yankees!!!    Oh this September is going to be another runaway I feel.   I may have to go check out some playoff games this year   

But..but...but..but...Paps was going to be the next MO!!!!    :rofl:

http://fullcount.weei.com/sports/boston/baseball/red-sox/2016/08/31/source-jonathan-papelbon-wont-sign-by-midnight-eliminating-postseason-eligibility-with-red-sox/

Yeah, didn't quite live up to his high aspirations.
It shows how sketchy the Red Sox bullpen has been this year, how badly they wanted Papelbon, because he was pretty awful the last few months for the Nats. And also surprising he hasn't signed with a team, considering there was interest. I guess maybe he doesn't believe in his abilities anymore, never mind being the next Rivera.

Thank you Oakland.   I don't care about what anyone says about your stadium. As long as you can't beat Boston your the best!

Glad the Jays do not ever have to fly to Tampa any more this season.   Ugh. They sure stink there

Now off to New York.  Where the Jays will destroy the evil horible Yankees!!

Go Yanks!

Still feel dirty saying that, but every once in awhile it happens.

Finally got the evil Mr Tanaka out of the game

and my Jays rally cap is on

Go Jays!!

That was the wrong hat.  That sucked.

Now let's go padries.   I love the padries