It's Monday already?
Ugh.
I'm guessing it's an easier day for the Reds, they may get as many hits today as they have recently anyway.
Pretty sad, I was looking up the stats yesterday and the top two hitters were Mike Leake and Homer Bailey -- that's not good.
* My boy Tommy G was texting me Saturday about where to eat in Atlanta and was headed to the Braves games. I was doing family stuff and I get the text, "Holy no-no!" Yep, he was at Saturday's no-hitter. Amazing, you can go to thousands of games and not see a no-hitter and I'm not sure I've ever really been close.
The thing that's special about a no-hitter to me -- even though as far as accomplishments, it's not the most rare -- it's just that there are so many chances for it to go wrong. And of course, it seems like in every no-hitter, there's that one play that saves it and preserves it. Dexter Fowler's catches wasn't quite Dwayne Wise, but it was pretty damn good.
An aside, how stupid is a fan to boo a no-hitter? I hate to go off on booing, which I believe is just crass and rude and silly, again -- but here we go. You boo a no-hitter? Even if you're wearing a shirt of the other team, you have to applaud that accomplishment, otherwise you're just another stupid drunk going to the game because that's what you do. If you have any appreciation at all for the sport of baseball, you stand and cheer for a guy doing something amazing. A bunch of dolts there in Atlanta -- and I wish I could say I was surprised.
* And then on the same day to have a 20-inning game? I love baseball.
* I'm also enjoying former players' blogs -- one on Brent Mayne about the 20-inning game and Morgan Ensberg on TV's role in longer games and you can always feel a disruption in the rhythm of a national TV game -- it seems like the time between innings is three minutes longer, not 30 seconds.
* That would be two trips around the bases for Adam Rosales.
* Looks like Lance Berkman will be ready to come to Cincinnati, that's not good for the Reds. Also, former Red Jeff Keppinger looks as if he's finally worked his way into a starting spot. Good for him. I've known Keppinger since he was in college and he's definitely one of the good guys. He's always worked his butt off and hoped for a chance to play every day. He got that for a while here due to injury, but I think second base will be a much better position for him.
* The Reds released Logan Parker, a former UC first baseman and high school teammate of Daniel Ray Herrera.
* It's NFL Draft week and I hate this new set-up of Thursday night and Friday night prime time drafting. It doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me, but the NFL is usually bullet-proof and will be fine.
I've heard the one player the Bengals are in love with is C.J. Spiller, other than that, they haven't fallen hard for anyone. I don't see Spiller dropping to 21, but it's possible, I guess.
I have no real reason for this other than a gut feeling (and look at my gut, it's pretty sizeable, so, you know, it's kinda trustworthy) but I don't see them taking a TE in the first. But some of those who know much more than I seem to think they will. I just don't see it.
* And forget Tony Scheffler.
As soon as Marvin said expect another tight end, I thought Reggie Kelly. I still expect that.
* Here are 10 small-college players to know for this year's draft.
* I love college football, but I really don't miss recruiting or spring games, both of which serve their purpose, but for me, that purpose doesn't include entertainment.
* The SEC, Big 10 and MAC are getting HD replays. Seems to be this should have happened sooner for the SEC and Big 10, my guess is it's the cameras that were the issues.
* Star Wars is closer to coming out on Blu-Ray. The DLP still won't watch it. Found out this weekend she hasn't seen any Indiana Jones movie, either. "If it's a boy movie from the 80s, it's safe to say I haven't seen it," she told me.
That doesn't include Top Gun, though -- which is the ultimate compromise movie -- I hate the cheesy love story and you know, other parts, but the flying is awesome.
* Is this the new iPhone? Either way, the new one looks like it's coming in June. Well, the DLP will have one in July, I'll have to wait until December.
* Google seems to be recruiting developers to develop for Android. A smart move, we'll see if it pays off. It seems to be so far.
* Not even an honorable mention for Shake-It or Everybody's in Spin's Top 15 Indie Record Stores? Waterloo in Austin is awesome, I'll put that out there. But our two here blow Wuxtry out of the water (unless you count Bizarro Wuxtry as part of it -- but that's really a comic book store). Wuxtry's just mentioned because of its place in history. Even when I lived in Athens, I hated shopping there. I'd rather go to Big Shot (R.I.P.).
* NPR is streaming the new album from The Hold Steady.
* Soundgarden played together for the first time in 13 years. There was an Onion story about a reunion a couple of years back. When Chris Cornell was at the Clear Channel office and I ran into him, I mentioned that story and he said they'd all seen it and laughed about it.
Ugh.
I'm guessing it's an easier day for the Reds, they may get as many hits today as they have recently anyway.
Pretty sad, I was looking up the stats yesterday and the top two hitters were Mike Leake and Homer Bailey -- that's not good.
* My boy Tommy G was texting me Saturday about where to eat in Atlanta and was headed to the Braves games. I was doing family stuff and I get the text, "Holy no-no!" Yep, he was at Saturday's no-hitter. Amazing, you can go to thousands of games and not see a no-hitter and I'm not sure I've ever really been close.
The thing that's special about a no-hitter to me -- even though as far as accomplishments, it's not the most rare -- it's just that there are so many chances for it to go wrong. And of course, it seems like in every no-hitter, there's that one play that saves it and preserves it. Dexter Fowler's catches wasn't quite Dwayne Wise, but it was pretty damn good.
An aside, how stupid is a fan to boo a no-hitter? I hate to go off on booing, which I believe is just crass and rude and silly, again -- but here we go. You boo a no-hitter? Even if you're wearing a shirt of the other team, you have to applaud that accomplishment, otherwise you're just another stupid drunk going to the game because that's what you do. If you have any appreciation at all for the sport of baseball, you stand and cheer for a guy doing something amazing. A bunch of dolts there in Atlanta -- and I wish I could say I was surprised.
* And then on the same day to have a 20-inning game? I love baseball.
* I'm also enjoying former players' blogs -- one on Brent Mayne about the 20-inning game and Morgan Ensberg on TV's role in longer games and you can always feel a disruption in the rhythm of a national TV game -- it seems like the time between innings is three minutes longer, not 30 seconds.
* That would be two trips around the bases for Adam Rosales.
* Looks like Lance Berkman will be ready to come to Cincinnati, that's not good for the Reds. Also, former Red Jeff Keppinger looks as if he's finally worked his way into a starting spot. Good for him. I've known Keppinger since he was in college and he's definitely one of the good guys. He's always worked his butt off and hoped for a chance to play every day. He got that for a while here due to injury, but I think second base will be a much better position for him.
* The Reds released Logan Parker, a former UC first baseman and high school teammate of Daniel Ray Herrera.
* It's NFL Draft week and I hate this new set-up of Thursday night and Friday night prime time drafting. It doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me, but the NFL is usually bullet-proof and will be fine.
I've heard the one player the Bengals are in love with is C.J. Spiller, other than that, they haven't fallen hard for anyone. I don't see Spiller dropping to 21, but it's possible, I guess.
I have no real reason for this other than a gut feeling (and look at my gut, it's pretty sizeable, so, you know, it's kinda trustworthy) but I don't see them taking a TE in the first. But some of those who know much more than I seem to think they will. I just don't see it.
* And forget Tony Scheffler.
As soon as Marvin said expect another tight end, I thought Reggie Kelly. I still expect that.
* Here are 10 small-college players to know for this year's draft.
* I love college football, but I really don't miss recruiting or spring games, both of which serve their purpose, but for me, that purpose doesn't include entertainment.
* The SEC, Big 10 and MAC are getting HD replays. Seems to be this should have happened sooner for the SEC and Big 10, my guess is it's the cameras that were the issues.
* Star Wars is closer to coming out on Blu-Ray. The DLP still won't watch it. Found out this weekend she hasn't seen any Indiana Jones movie, either. "If it's a boy movie from the 80s, it's safe to say I haven't seen it," she told me.
That doesn't include Top Gun, though -- which is the ultimate compromise movie -- I hate the cheesy love story and you know, other parts, but the flying is awesome.
* Is this the new iPhone? Either way, the new one looks like it's coming in June. Well, the DLP will have one in July, I'll have to wait until December.
* Google seems to be recruiting developers to develop for Android. A smart move, we'll see if it pays off. It seems to be so far.
* Not even an honorable mention for Shake-It or Everybody's in Spin's Top 15 Indie Record Stores? Waterloo in Austin is awesome, I'll put that out there. But our two here blow Wuxtry out of the water (unless you count Bizarro Wuxtry as part of it -- but that's really a comic book store). Wuxtry's just mentioned because of its place in history. Even when I lived in Athens, I hated shopping there. I'd rather go to Big Shot (R.I.P.).
* NPR is streaming the new album from The Hold Steady.
* Soundgarden played together for the first time in 13 years. There was an Onion story about a reunion a couple of years back. When Chris Cornell was at the Clear Channel office and I ran into him, I mentioned that story and he said they'd all seen it and laughed about it.
The Bengals wouldn't give up a 5th rounder to get Scheffler? Do they really believe they can get a starting player at a position of need in the 5th round? I just don't get it.
Hey, Trent. Just wondering if you happened to see SportsCenter Saturday night. They led with the 20-inning game and followed up with the no-hitter, which I thought was a bit odd.
I can't remember the last time a no-hitter didn't lead.
I'm sure if Boston or New York pitcher threw the no-no it would've led.
I have never been supportive of booing. Especially booing your own team. Ive had some heated exchanges at GABP over it and have left my seat a few times. Maybe its because Ive known some of the guys over the years and I know how much they really cared and wanted to do well. Maybe its because I couldnt imagine having a bad day at work and have a bunch of strangers insult me. I get it...you paid for your ticket so it gives you a certain license I suppose. But Im pretty sure being a jerk isnt included in there.
As far as the Bengals draft. Who knows. Im still shocked they didnt make a move for Marshall or Ginn. Im of the opinion that you give a 2nd round pick for a young #1 WR. Yes, I would give Maualuga up for Marshall everyday of the week. Especially this year when they have an extra 3rs rounder. A 5th rounder for Ginn? Yes. 85, Bryant and Ginn/Marshall...pretty lethal in my opinion.
I really think they need to adress their return game. They havent had anyone dangerous really since Warrick and Mack. Cosby was serviceable last season but he wont scare anyone the way Spiller would.
I don't know if I'd boo a no-hitter but if a pitcher I despised like Roger Clemens was about to finish one and someone got a hit to break it up, I'd be cheering like hell. Some guys I just can't stand and if booing makes me look like an idiot than so be it. I'd venture to say there are a lot of fans who'd do the same to other pitchers like Pedro.
I get bothered when I spend 15-20 bucks on a ticket, 10 dollars for a coke and hot dog, and then see a guy staring at pitches going right down the middle of the plate. I may not sit there and boo but I do get frustrated and say what is he doing up there? What are you watinig for, anything like that. The inevitably someone around me says let's see you do it. Well I don't have to because I'm not paid to hit the ball!!!!!!
I'm not a heckler and I don't get wasted at games and act like a fool, but I certainly don't see any problem being in the stands and showing displeasure for what's going on.
I have never understood the big deal about the NFL draft anyway. Other than it takes too damn long and the Bengals usually have you scratching your head at the end. To me, it's as significant as the spring game and recruiting news are to you. Of course I think the spring games and recruiting are pretty over rated too. I had a chance to go to Ohio State's spring game last year and said nah, I'd rather be doing something productive than watch a practice and pay for it!
As for the 20 inning game being the lead on sportcenter, all I can say is it did involve a New York team. Even if it was the Mets, if it deals with New York ESPN is going to tell us it's more important than anything happening anywhere else.
Since 1970 there have only been 19 20+ inning games while in contrast there has been many more no hitters in comparison. I understand why they led off with the 20 inning game.
yeah, 20-inning games don't happen every year. no-hitters, a couple, do.
but again, like i said, there's such an individual accomplishment of the no-hitter. it amazes me and you can see it coming and root for it. i'd love to be at one at some point.
as for booing, do you think you want a player to succeed more than he wants to succeed? if that guy didn't swing at three pitches, what if he didn't think they were strikes? or he couldn't do anything with them? then there's the people who boo because they aren't selective enough. if you're going to want to boo, you'll find a reason, i guess. i just think it's crass. i'm with the bartender.
I agree with you in fact I've gone as far as to start cheering for the other pitcher once they've gone into the 7th with a no hitter. Of course I still haven't seen one but I'll start rooting for it even if its the other team.
The two reasons I always here for booing:
1. "I paid for my ticket, I spent the money. So..." Well what the hell does that mean? Where else in the world does this apply? Ive never booed at the movies or restaurants. I never boo the cable man for showing up when he wants. Ive never bood the mechanic when he says it will cost two grand to fix my stupid car. I should boo the starter at every golf course for letting me spend ungodly ammounts of money to chase a little white ball around for 6 hours....really, I should.
2. "They are professionals. They should be able to handle it." Fine. They should. But since they are pro's does that mean you are expected to act like Veruca Salt? "I want an Oompa Loompa NOW!"
Maybe Im different, but the result of the game itself matters little to me at the ballpark. I go to 30-50 games a year and I do it because I love baseball. I like seeing a father take his son or daughter to their first game. I like watching the old fogies keep score. I like the kid in the top row with his glove on getting ready for every pitch as if there is a chance it will be hit to him. Its having a beer, talking to strangers behind you about your favorite players...all that stuff. If happiness at a baseball game hinged on wins and losses, there wouldnt be many happy fans.
I give Philly a pass on this. Yes, they boo their own teams all the time. However, they give the opposition hell every game too. I might be able to live with that...might.
You know what bothers me more than fans booing at game. Its the guy in their 30's who bring a glove to the game. In my mind if you're older than 15 you shouldn't bring a glove. Catch it with your bare hands or let some kid get it.
For 95 percent of the pitchers out there I'd love to witness a no-hitter. There are just some people I don't like seeing a notch in their hats. Again, I said I'm not a heckler, but I do feel that you can get frustrated and voice it in the stands.
Bartender so when you watch a bad movie or pay for a bad meal you don't at least complain about it? Maybe not to the business but to your wife or friends? You don't voice displeasure at a 2,000 dollar car repair bill? I didn't say go into the business and boo like an idiot, but yeah if the cable guy shows up 2 hours after they say he was supposed to I may say where the heck have you been?
I love baseball too, for all the romance that you mentioned. I fell in love with the game at about 5 years old and have never been able to shake it. But at the same time, I do enjoy watching good baseball. A lot of times the conversations I've had with people next to me relate to what is going on with Harang. Or is Bruce going to be the stud we all expect? When will they ever get a real lead off hitter? etc etc etc. Same stuff most people talk about here, but I talk about it in the stands too.
I disagree I've had some seats where rocket line drives were hit, and I was thinking man, I need a glove for protection here. I don't mind barehanding a pop up, but not a line drive into the stands.
Im not taking a glove to a game, but Im not hanging in there to catch a screamer either. Im taking a dive...no doubt.
I was almost drilled at a Cyclones game once and Ive seen bloody faces off the first base line more than a few times.
Eff that. Lets someone else get on SportsCenter.
As cool as a no hitter is to see, the almost no hitter or perfect game is really just as remarkable.
More people saw Ron Robinson take a perfect game into the 9th than saw Tom Browning's actual perfect game because it was on a kid glove night.
I almost had a throwdown with my friend's dad who wanted to get all the kids home in time for their bed times.
Well, thats the thing....when in the past 15 years did you go to the ballpark expecting the Reds to play "good baseball?"
I could complain about the repair bill, but it wont get my car fixed any sooner. I could complain about the cable guy, but I doubt he'd give a crap. And rationally complaining is one things, being a grown adult booing another grown adult over a game is another.
I just dont see how its effective. I also dont like setting that example for kids at the games. If you want to voice your displeasure with a pro sports team, the most effective way is to close your wallet, not open your mouth.
So you guys boo booing huh?
Well, I boo booing booing.
I think there's a place for it in the game if used sparingly. Personally I think there are some legit reasons to boo. But there should perhaps be a code of conduct on when to judiciously boo. What if a player doesn't hustle down to 1st base on a grounder or fly out? And he's done this 10 times this season. Or a pitcher gets lazy and doesn't cover first? And it's the 2nd time he did it in the game.
I think any act on the field that smacks of a player forgetting that he is playing a game for a living and is being paid millions to do so, ought to bring the displeasure of the fans paying his salary.
And frankly, I'd rather have a crowd actually engaged in the contest and booing, than what occurs far too often these days at the modern ballpark, which is just a plague of general apathy about what's actually happening on the field. Far too often the game takes a backseat to the procuring and consuming of ballpark food. A large percentage of people aren't even paying attention to the game. So I'd put forward that hearing silence or, worse, the sound of 10,000 overstuffed mouths chewing nachos, should be considered much more disrespectful than actually watching the game and voicing unhappiness at the outcomes.
But I really like nachos...Im powerless in their presence.
Well, there have been plenty of individual games that I have been to where good baseball was on display. The point I've been trying to make was addressed by KW. When Jr didn't run to first, or when Phillips thinks he has a homerun and starts trotting as it hits the wall I'm supposed to keep my mouth shut in the stands? I don'tk now, I think it's ok to not be happy with that. Again, I'm not saying cussing the guy out and making a scene.
If you are setting an example for the kids, especially if they play baseball or softball, don't they need to know that what that guy did was not the correct way to play on the field? I guess I remember playing highschool baseball and summer ball for years and having consequences for being lazy on the field. I figure if it wasn't ok for me to screw off it certainly isn't ok for a guy who is payed 10 million a year to screw off.
I remember that game! Correct me if I am wrong, but Robinson was two outs away when he promptly gave up a double in the gap to some Expo and I want to say that was followed by a homerun.
tough guy fans have slowly worked their way from football to baseball. when i was a kid, you didnt see 90 percent of the crowd dressed up in reds gear at home games. now people dress up in the home team colors. i think that level of enthusiasm goes both ways. they want to see a winner on the field and they hate losing that much more.
btw, this also translates into the field. when i was growing up you almost never saw catchers asking for appeals on check swings. now you see it all the time.
cincinnati and columbus both have great record stores, of course ohio isnt even hip in an ironic sense.
It's good that people are able to get the home loans moreover, it opens new chances.