JSchool::Sports Feeds

Should Cubs Resign Derrek Lee? (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:00:52 +0200

You can’t be upset with D-Lee’s decision to revoke a trade to Anaheim. As a 10-5 player, he’s earned the right to do so. I am surprised, however, Lee’s decided to go down with the sinking ship on the North Side vs. playing for a contender. Of course, it would’ve been nice to get a [...]

You can’t be upset with D-Lee’s decision to revoke a trade to Anaheim.
As a 10-5 player, he’s earned the right to do so.

I am surprised, however, Lee’s decided to go down with the sinking ship
on the North Side vs. playing for a contender.

Of course, it would’ve been nice to get a little something in return for him,
but having Lee around isn’t all that discouraging, either.

Now the question looms as to what to do about Lee this offseason?
The two-time All Star turns 35 in two months, he’s scuffling offensively
and presumably looking to sign his last professional contract.

But what Lee lacks in production he makes up for in character.
And the Cubs, no doubt, need that leadership with a multitude
of promising prospects on the horizon.

The more I think about it, the more I like the idea of Lee returning
for another two years. Then again, maybe I’m just thinking with
my heart and not my head?

Peter King: Dallas Cowboys training camp postcard (Peter King, BSJ '79)

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 04:56:17 +0200

SI.com has dispatched writers to report on the 32 NFL training camps across the country. Here's what Peter King had to say about the Cowboys camp in San Antonio.SI.com has dispatched writers to report on the 32 NFL training camps across the country. Here's what Peter King had to say about the Cowboys camp in San Antonio.

Peralta dealt to the Tigers for Class A lefty (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 04:45:10 +0200

By Anthony Castrovince/MLB.comUPDATED: Here's the full story on the Peralta trade.The Indians have dealt veteran third baseman Jhonny Peralta and cash to the Tigers for Class A left-hander Giovanni Soto.Peralta joins an injury depleted Tigers team looking to get back...

7/28: Indians vs. Yankees (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:56:52 +0200

Tonight's 7:05 p.m. ET game is on WTAM and SportsTime Ohio. I'll be on the STO pregame show tonight.INDIANS (42-58): CF Crowe, SS Cabrera, RF Choo, C Santana, DH Hafner, LF Kearns, 3B Peralta, 1B LaPorta, 3B Andy Marte, 2B...

First Look at Terrell Owens as a Bengal in Madden NFL 11 (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 17:28:24 +0200

EA Sports just released seven new screen shots of Terrell Owens, the newest member of the Cincinnati Bengals, wearing his stripes. Check out the full gallery on Facebook. One question obviously remains: Will T.O. actually wear No. 81? That would appear to be the current number for the other newly acquired wideout in Cincinnati -- Antonio Bryant.

If Ted Lilly Is Traded… (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:00:18 +0200

I’ve said many times Ted Lilly has been the staff ace since signing a four-year deal in 2006. But it’s likely his outing Tuesday night was his last as a Chicago Cub. The Twins, Tigers, and Yankees are heavy favorites to trade for Lilly before Saturday’s deadline. Lilly’s record with Cubs: 2007: (15-8)–3.83 ERA–207.0 IP [...]

I’ve said many times Ted Lilly has been the staff ace since signing a four-year deal in 2006.

But it’s likely his outing Tuesday night was his last as a Chicago Cub.

The Twins, Tigers, and Yankees are heavy favorites to trade for Lilly before Saturday’s deadline.

Lilly’s record with Cubs:
2007: (15-8)–3.83 ERA–207.0 IP
2008: (17-9)–4.09 ERA–204.2 IP
2009: (12-9)–3.10 ERA–177.0 IP
2010: (3-8) –3.88 ERA–117.0 IP

Summary: (47-34)–3.73 ERA–avg. 177.0 IP

Notes:
*Lilly’s received the lowest run support this season in the majors (2.43).

*Despite issuing 3 walks on Tuesday, he’s averaging just 1.94 walks per 9-innings
pitched the last two seasons–second lowest among all lefty starters. Cliff Lee (1.24)

*Has lasted six or more innings in 14 of 18 starts this year.

*Posted five no-walk outings in 2010.

*From May 10 to June 8 he recorded six-straight quality starts, but no victories.

*On June 13 carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning against the White Sox before Juan Pierre broke it up with a leadoff single to center field.

We’re Back; Charmayne James Race in the Rockies (The Barrel Racing Blog)

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 02:14:05 +0200

Things here at The Barrel Racing Blog have slowed down a bit lately, mainly because things in my life have sped up! I don’t mean to abandon this blog, though, and that’s certainly not in the plans. Two weekends ago, I got to run at the Charmayne James Race in the Rockies, the first race [...]

Two weekends ago, I got to run at the Charmayne James Race in the Rockies, the first race of its kind in this area. After two good runs, an awesome weekend in one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and introductions with some amazing show producers and equine journalists, I left the barrel race with a sense of awe at the way the show was handled.

The backdrop for the Charmayne James Race in the Rockies

The fastest time of the weekend was a 14.0, while other 1D horses clocked in the 14.2-14.3 range. The deep sandy ground gave some horses problems, but most horses, like my own, found the ground perfect for a good dig and turn. Unlike any barrel race I’ve been to other than a few select shows back East, the grounds crew drug every five horses and hand-raked to ensure safety. After a major hail storm, show organizers took an hour-and-a-half long break to allow horses and riders to regroup, and to permit the grounds crew to drain the water from the alleyway to keep the entrance and exit safe for all horses.

SO, if you’re wondering what is coming next for The Barrel Racing Blog, expect a review of Seabuck, an all around health product, coming up in the very near future. I’ll also talk a little more about my experiences with JailBreak GI, because I have much more to say about that product. I’m looking forward to figuring out new stories to put up here, and I’m looking forward to hearing from all of you about what you’d like to see – ChelseaEToy@gmail.com.

7/27: Indians vs. Yankees (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:58:59 +0200

Tonight's 7:05 p.m. ET game at Progressive Field is on WTAM and STO. Josh Tomlin will be making his debut and hoping to avoid serving up No. 600 to Alex Rodriguez. Here's a story on CC Sabathia returning to Cleveland...

Madden Demo Releases; Obama Appears in Game (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 20:57:33 +0200

As release day -- August 10 -- approaches for Madden NFL 11, gamers are getting a first look at the title today on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 through the game's demo. Go forth and download it, and then return to the comments with your thoughts on the demo.

In other news, EA dropped a few Super Bowl celebration videos on Monday, which you can watch over on IGN. Pay particular attention, Jags and Lions fans, because this might be the closest you get for a while.

The detail from Gus Johnson is impressive, but the wrinkle to add President Obama is a nice touch as well. The only other President represented in a video game that comes to mind is Bill Clinton in NBA Jam.

T-Time: UNDRCRWN's King Tee (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:45:18 +0200

WHY YOU NEED IT: The Heat-related t-shirts continue to flow and now UNDRCRWN has gotten into the mix with this "KING 6" tee. Great for Heat fans reveling in their free agent victories, but a tough pill to swallow for the fans in Cleveland.

PRICE: $26

BUY IT NOW: UNDRCRWN King Tee

PRICE: $26

BUY IT NOW: UNDRCRWN King Tee

Peter King: T.O. should wait it out; more mailbag (Peter King, BSJ '79)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:03:24 +0200

Usually I'd say in the case of the Bengals chasing a player with serious baggage, that it's owner Mike Brown forcing a guy into Marvin Lewis' locker room, causing Lewis to roll his eyes and say, "How exactly am I supposed to handle all these divas?''Usually I'd say in the case of the Bengals chasing a player with serious baggage, that it's owner Mike Brown forcing a guy into Marvin Lewis' locker room, causing Lewis to roll his eyes and say, "How exactly am I supposed to handle all these divas?''

Indy Indians game (The Big Read Machine)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:43:00 +0200

The Indianapolis Indians are the Triple-A farm club for the Pittsburgh Pirates and have a beautiful ballpark to call home. I got a chance to see a game Monday night with the other Reeder family thanks to tickets from Uncle Ryan. The Indians beat the visiting Charlotte Knights (White Sox affiliate) 8-5.

Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis, you walk through the gates and enter in centerfield.

From right field, the scoreboard with brand new JW Marriott hotel in the background. The hotel is slated to open in February 2011 in preparation for the 2012's Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis!

We sat on the first base line in the second deck, but unfortunately no foul balls came close.

The foul pole down each line is 325 feet from home plate. Centerfield is expansive; 418 to left-center, 402 straight away, and 362 to right-center.

Here's the view upon entrance from the lawn which extends the length of the fence in the outfield. Perfect for enjoying picnics or catching a souvenir. For more great pictures (not taken by me) click here.

From Bob Costas:

It's a beautiful ballpark, and it's part of one of the best sports downtowns anywhere in America. I mean you've got the Colts stadium right there, the new arena for the Pacers is there, and Victory Field all within walking distance. I don't know of any other town in America where you can literally stroll from one to another.

--March 2000

Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis, you walk through the gates and enter in centerfield.

From right field, the scoreboard with brand new JW Marriott hotel in the background. The hotel is slated to open in February 2011 in preparation for the 2012's Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis!

We sat on the first base line in the second deck, but unfortunately no foul balls came close.

The foul pole down each line is 325 feet from home plate. Centerfield is expansive; 418 to left-center, 402 straight away, and 362 to right-center.

From Bob Costas:

It's a beautiful ballpark, and it's part of one of the best sports downtowns anywhere in America. I mean you've got the Colts stadium right there, the new arena for the Pacers is there, and Victory Field all within walking distance. I don't know of any other town in America where you can literally stroll from one to another.

--March 2000

"Pay me my money down" (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 15:50:40 +0200

By Anthony Castrovince/MLB.comhttp://www.twitter.com/castrovince If you're sitting in Section 181, Row J, in the aisle seat between Section 180 and 181 tonight, I hope you brought your glove. The folks at SeatGeek have determined that your seat is "The Money Seat"...

Steve Stone Says Cubs Need Speed (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 07:15:15 +0200

During his interview on 670 The Score Monday morning, Steve Stone suggested the Cubs have undervalued team speed for many years. Stone says the Cubs would benifit from more speed than power-bats with the wind typically blowing out at Wrigley Field for 4 out of the 6 months of the season– April, May, June & [...]

During his interview on 670 The Score Monday morning,
Steve Stone suggested the Cubs have undervalued team
speed for many years.

Stone says the Cubs would benifit from more speed than
power-bats with the wind typically blowing out at
Wrigley Field for 4 out of the 6 months of the season–
April, May, June & September.

Right away Rays center fielder BJ Upton jumped to mind.
Upton, 25, has major upside…and serious speed.
He would flourish in Wrigley’s small outfield and could
bat anywhere from 1-6 in the lineup.

It’s been no secret the Rays have grown tired of Upton’s
apparent lack of motivation from time-to-time, and trading
him wouldn’t be out of the question.

Chicago has the chips to get him, but whether or not they
value Upton is another question. According to Stony, probably not.

7/26: Indians vs. Yankees (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:03:08 +0200

Tonight's 7:05 p.m. ET game is on STO and WTAM. Yankees cleanup hitter Alex Rodriguez is looking for home run No. 600. Tribe cleanup hitter Carlos Santana is looking for home run No. 7. The last time Westbrook and Vazquez faced...

Nike Boom Brings Motivational Talks to Your Training (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 21:02:46 +0200

There's an interesting app that's been out for roughly a week called Nike Boom that I took a closer look at this afternoon. If you lug around an iPod/iPhone during your workouts and you're looking for some sort of free guidance for your workouts, it isn't a bad place to start.

The greatest strength of the app is taking music from player's library and bringing it into the app, using it to guide your workouts. If you're doing interval training, you'll get audio cues about when to rest/resume activity that play over the music. The cues are tough to miss, unless of course you're listening to a hip-hop mixtape with a D.J. shouting over the whole thing. Then it might just blend. But anyway, you're offered three modes: Workout, Interval and Gameday. Each mode features motivation tidbits being said by Nike-related coaches and athletes from Coach K to LeBron James and more. (Currently, the app spans football, basketball and hockey.)

In Workout, you're setting a pretty standard timer with warm-up and cool-down periods. In interval training, you're setting an overall length of workout along with the timing of your intervals, both in time spent working out and time resting. Audio cues (like a whistle or a boom noise alert you to change). The other mode is Gameday, where you pick music to play before your big game. You also pick an "anthem" that is the last song that plays before gameday.

I had some crashing issues the first few times I ran the app, but overall it worked pretty flawlessly after some early hiccups. The motivational talking points do nothing for me personally, but I love the timer element. Admittedly, I've never used this kind of app before, so a similar feature might already exist in another iPhone app. Still, for free, it's worth a try if you need some guidance during your workouts.

Madden NFL 11 Soundtrack Revealed (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 17:33:40 +0200

EA Sports just sent out a news release unveiling the soundtrack for Madden NFL 11. I'll say it: The thing is pretty uninspired. If they're going for a "Best of Jock Jams" feel, the mission accomplished. And maybe EA can't go broad and interesting in its music choices because of the scale of its audience. But yeah, I can't see anyone getting particularly excited about this year's offerings.

I will say that I don't want to be entirely critical, because I see the spark of a decent idea. With all the attention paid to detail, I wonder whether we're getting closer to having customized soundtracks for each stadium. The inclusion of the fight songs tells me that might be the case. For example, as a Bengals fan I'm used to the Bootsy Collins songs he's done for Paul Brown Stadium on Sundays. I'd rather hear that kind of thing -- as cheesy as the song is -- rather than hearing "Thunderstruck" for the 9,000th time. The soundtrack for the game is listed below. What do you think?

Original Recordings:

-- AC/DC – Thunderstruck
-- Archie Eversole – We Ready
-- Blur – Song 2
-- Bush – Machinehead
-- Guns N’ Roses – Welcome to the Jungle
-- Kevin Rudolf featuring Lil’ Wayne – Let It Rock
-- Kiss – Rock and Roll All Nite
-- Ozzy Osbourne – Let Me Hear You Scream
-- Ozzy Osbourne – Crazy Train
-- The Hives – Tick Tick Boom
-- Todd Rundgren – Bang the Drum
-- Ying Yang Twins featuring Homebwoi – Halftime

Cover Versions:

-- Rock N Roll Part 2 – as made famous by Gary Glitter
-- We Will Rock You – as made famous by Queen
-- Crowd Chant – as made famous by Joe Satriani
-- Kernkraft 400 – as made famous by Zombie Nation

Team Fight Songs:

-- Chicago Bears – Bear Down Chicago Bears
-- Detroit Lions – Gridiron Heroes
-- Green Bay Packers – Go Packers Go!
-- Miami Dolphins – Miami Dolphins #1
-- Minnesota Vikings – Skol Vikings
-- Philadelphia Eagles – Fly Eagles Fly
-- Washington Redskins – Hail to the Redskins

Original Recordings:

Cover Versions:

Team Fight Songs:

Kids run the bases, with special guests (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 17:26:53 +0200

By Anthony Castrovince/MLB.comhttp://www.twitter.com/castrovince If you thought the Indians' lineup looked young, you should see the kids running the bases after Sunday home games. But the kids who ran the bases after yesterday's game had a special treat waiting for them......

Peter King: Optimism is everywhere as camps start (Peter King, BSJ '79)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 17:22:50 +0200

It is great to be back. The World Cup was terrific, my brother's death a punch in the jaw that still hurts, my vacation was needed but a little ... empty. Today is the start of football season for me, and it's a great feeling because this is as wide-open a season entering training camp as I can remember.It is great to be back. The World Cup was terrific, my brother's death a punch in the jaw that still hurts, my vacation was needed but a little ... empty. Today is the start of football season for me, and it's a great feeling because this is as wide-open a season entering training camp as I can remember.

NBA Jam to the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360? (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:06:30 +0200

As of this moment, EA Sports hasn't announced NBA Jam coming to the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3, but the screen grab above from the Entertainment Software Rating Board indicates it might not be far off.

EA Sports had yet to return an e-mail seeking comment as of this post. If they give us any further information, this post will be updated.

(H/T to Joystiq)

EA Sports had yet to return an e-mail seeking comment as of this post. If they give us any further information, this post will be updated.

(H/T to Joystiq)

Bobby Valentine’s Resume (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 08:00:00 +0200

Texas Rangers 1985: (53-76)…replaced Doug Rader 32-games into the season. 1986: (87-75)…2nd place AL West. 1987: (75-87)…7th place AL West. 1988: (70-91)…6th place AL West. 1989: (83-79)…4th place AL West. 1990: (83-79)…3rd place AL West. 1991: (85-77)…3rd place AL West. 1992: (45-41)…fired & replaced by Toby Harrah. Norfolk Tides – International League 1994: (67-75) Chiba [...]

Texas Rangers
1985: (53-76)…replaced Doug Rader 32-games into the season.
1986: (87-75)…2nd place AL West.
1987: (75-87)…7th place AL West.
1988: (70-91)…6th place AL West.
1989: (83-79)…4th place AL West.
1990: (83-79)…3rd place AL West.
1991: (85-77)…3rd place AL West.
1992: (45-41)…fired & replaced by Toby Harrah.

Norfolk Tides – International League
1994: (67-75)

Chiba Lotte Marines – Japan
1995: (69-58-3)…2nd place division.
Was fired after leading team to firt winning season in 11-years!

Norfolk Tides – International League
1996: (76-57)…replaced Mets manager Dallas Green on Aug. 26.

New York Mets
1996: (12-19)…4th place NL East.
1997: (88-74)…3rd place NL East.
1998: (88-74)…2nd place NL East.
1999: (97-66)…Won NL Wild Card, Lost NLDS against Atlanta.
2000: (94-68)…Won NL Wild Card, Lost Subway Series against Yankees.
2001: (82-80)…3rd place NL East.
2002: (75-86)…5th place NL East.

Chiba Lotte Marines – Japan
2004: (65-65-3)…4th place division.
2005: (84-49-3)…Won Nippon Pro Series.
2006: (65-70-1)…4th place division.
2007: (76-61-7)…2nd place division.
2008: (73-70-1)…4th place division.
2009: (62-77-5)…5th place division.

Notes:
*1970 MVP Pacific Coast League, Spokane Indians.
*Breifly coached for Cincinnati after being fired in Texas.
*Has just two MLB post-season appearances, 1999 & 2000.
*The only man to manage in both the World Series and the Japan Series.
*Awarded 2005 Matsutaro Shoriki Award for his contributions to Japanese baseball.

Tyler Colvin NL Rookie of the Year? (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 07:15:54 +0200

Put Tyler Colvin in the race for the NL Rookie of the Year Award. *He leads all rookies in home runs with 15. *Leads Cubs with six game-winning RBI. *Has nine home runs & 20 RBI since June 15. *Is 7-for-25 in his last six games batting leadoff, including 3 home runs & 4 RBI. [...]

Put Tyler Colvin in the race for the NL Rookie of the Year Award.

*He leads all rookies in home runs with 15.
*Leads Cubs with six game-winning RBI.
*Has nine home runs & 20 RBI since June 15.
*Is 7-for-25 in his last six games batting leadoff,
including 3 home runs & 4 RBI.
*Has played all three outfield positions well.
*And has 64 games remaining this season.

Braves outfielder, Jason Heyward (.266, 11 HR & 48 RBI),
and Washington pitcher, Steven Strasburgh (5-2. 2.32 ERA),
are sure to remain the front runners in the National league.
But Colvin, (.264, 15 HR, 36 RBI), has enough time to win
the numbers game, given Lou continues to start the 25-year-old.

Colvin, however, also faces tough competition from
Cincinnati starter Mike Leake (7-1, 3.45 ERA) and
Mets outfielder Ike Davis, (.326, 14 HR, 46 RBI).

Women in Baseball (The Big Read Machine)

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 19:11:00 +0200

This 13 year-old knuckleballer is undefeated in four years, has thrown two perfect games, and is arguably the best little league pitcher in America. Meet Chelsea Baker:

For more on Chelsea, click here. Her story first aired on ESPN's E:60 program July 20, watch the full segment here narrated by Geena Davis. And I'll bet Ms. Baker is a Reds fan! Plant City, FL is the former spring training home of the Cincinnati Reds.

Meet Eri Yoshida, a.k.a The Knuckle Princess (pictured right). Hailing from Japan, Yoshida became the first ever woman to sign a professional baseball contract in her home country. At the age of 16 she was drafted by the Kobe 9 Cruise of the Kansai Independent League. Yoshida, also a knuckleballer, was then signed by the Chico Outlaws of the Golden Baseball League and pitched in the Arizona Winter League at age 18 (read about her professional debut in America). She learned her sidearm knuckleball pitch by watching Tim Wakefield of the Boston Red Sox.

By achieving her goal of pitching professionally in the US, Yoshida became the first woman to get paid to play since Ila Borders (pictured left). Borders was the first female to pitch in an NCAA or NAIA game in 1994 playing for Southern California College. In 1997 she made her professional debut with the St. Paul Saints of the Northern League. Her career ended in 2000 playing with the Zion Pioneerzz, which won the Western Baseball League championship that same season. Borders now makes speaking appearances across the country.

Other Notable Woman in Boys Baseball History:

--Cleveland's Alta Weiss could be considered baseball's First Lady. She pitched professionally in 1907 for the Vermillion Independents, drawing huge crowds before her father formed the Weiss All-Stars. The team traveled throughout the midwest to play different teams with Alta as the main attraction. In 1909 she went to medical school and became Dr. Alta Weiss (source).

--Jackie Mitchell of the Chattanooga Lookouts may be the most famous woman to ever pitch a baseball due to her accomplishment on April 2, 1931. This from website page Jackie Mitchell: The Girl Who Struck Out Babe Ruth by Jean Patrick:

On March 28, 1931 17 year-old Jackie Mitchell signed a contract to play baseball for the Chattanooga Lookouts, a Class AA minor league team. Five days later, on April 2, 1931, Jackie pitched against the New York Yankees in an exhibition game. In front of 4,000 fans, she struck out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig.

--The first female to ever pitch in the Negro Leagues was Mamie Johnson, who amassed a 33-8 record throwing for the Indianapolis Clowns from 1953-1955. She retired from baseball to become a nurse (source).

So the next time someone tells you this, don't take it so hard:

(You knew I HAD to get a Sandlot clip in there, right?!)

*Special thanks to Andie for inspiring this post

This 13 year-old knuckleballer is undefeated in four years, has thrown two perfect games, and is arguably the best little league pitcher in America. Meet Chelsea Baker:

Other Notable Woman in Boys Baseball History:

On March 28, 1931 17 year-old Jackie Mitchell signed a contract to play baseball for the Chattanooga Lookouts, a Class AA minor league team. Five days later, on April 2, 1931, Jackie pitched against the New York Yankees in an exhibition game. In front of 4,000 fans, she struck out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig.

So the next time someone tells you this, don't take it so hard:

(You knew I HAD to get a Sandlot clip in there, right?!)

*Special thanks to Andie for inspiring this post

Joe Girardi’s Resume (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 08:00:19 +0200

Florida Marlins 2006: (78-84)…kept Marlins in Wild Card race despite the league’s lowest payroll–$14 million. New York Yankees 2008: (89-73)…3rd place division. 2009: (103-59)..Won World Series against Philadelphia. 2010: (61-34)…1st place division. Notes: *Won 2006 NL Manger of the Year Award. *2006 candidate to succeed Dusty Baker in Chicago. *Catcher for the Cubs from 1989-92. [...]

Florida Marlins
2006: (78-84)…kept Marlins in Wild Card race despite the
league’s lowest payroll–$14 million.

New York Yankees
2008: (89-73)…3rd place division.
2009: (103-59)..Won World Series against Philadelphia.
2010: (61-34)…1st place division.

Notes:
*Won 2006 NL Manger of the Year Award.
*2006 candidate to succeed Dusty Baker in Chicago.
*Catcher for the Cubs from 1989-92.
*Graduate Northwestern University.
*Native of East Peoria, Illinois.

"Aren't we forgetting the true meaning of Christmas? You know, the birth of Santa." (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 01:18:04 +0200

By Anthony Castrovince/MLB.comhttp://www.twitter.com/castrovince It's 95 degrees with 95 percent humidity (at least, that's how it feels) at Progressive Field, just in time for the Indians' "Christmas in July" celebration. It's difficult to dig Ashley Tisdale singing "Last Christmas" on a...

7/23: Indians vs. Rays (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 23:44:10 +0200

Shin-Soo Choo is back (in the No. 3 spot, no less), and Aaron Laffey is headed to the DL with left shoulder fatigue. Tonight's 7:05 p.m. ET game at Progressive Field is on WTAM and STO. INDIANS (40-55): CF Brantley,...

Tebow/EA Sports Nike Trainer 1.2 Gets Release Date (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 22:41:00 +0200

It's really the perfect storm sneaker for this fine blog: a shoe devoted to a specific athlete and a video game? All we need is a music and TV tie-in and we're set. Oh, and there's even a shirt to go along with it!

Yes, I'm talking about the Nike "Tim Tebow" EA Sports Trainer 1.2, pictured below:

The sneaker above, along with a "Tebow Knows" shirt -- riffing on the old "Bo Knows" design -- will drop on Aug. 6 from Nike, presumably on Niketown.com.

(H/T to Nice Kicks)

Yes, I'm talking about the Nike "Tim Tebow" EA Sports Trainer 1.2, pictured below:

The sneaker above, along with a "Tebow Knows" shirt -- riffing on the old "Bo Knows" design -- will drop on Aug. 6 from Nike, presumably on Niketown.com.

(H/T to Nice Kicks)

Bob Brenly’s Resume (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 07:06:43 +0200

Arizona Diamondbacks 2001: (92-70)…Won World Series against Yankees. 2002: (98-64)…Won division, lost to St. Louis in NLDS. 2003: (84-78)…Finished 3rd in division. 2004: (22-59)…Fired after 3 1/2 seasons (303-262) .536% Notes: *Was member of Cubs 1990-91 radio team, partnering with Harry Caray, Thom Brennaman & Ron Santo. *Serves as the Cubs television analyst since 2005. [...]

Arizona Diamondbacks
2001: (92-70)…Won World Series against Yankees.
2002: (98-64)…Won division, lost to St. Louis in NLDS.
2003: (84-78)…Finished 3rd in division.
2004: (22-59)…Fired after 3 1/2 seasons (303-262) .536%

Notes:
*Was member of Cubs 1990-91 radio team, partnering with
Harry Caray, Thom Brennaman & Ron Santo.
*Serves as the Cubs television analyst since 2005.
*Attended Ohio University!
*Has a terrific mustache…on par with Mike Ditka’s,
Joel Quenneville’s & Phil Jackson’s cookies dusters!

Hodge Podge (The Big Read Machine)

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 06:18:00 +0200

Here are a few things I found interesting and wanted to share:

--Yanks Goin' Yard!

Brett Gardner got tossed in the Yankees 10-6 victory over the Angels Wednesday after arguing a called strike two, no worries though. The speedy center fielder knew exactly what he was doing. Rookie Collin Curtis promptly stepped up to the plate down 0-2, worked the count to 3-2, then parked one in the short porch in right at Yankee Stadium, his first Major League round-tripper & first curtain call (watch here). Watch towards the end of the video as an employee gets the HR ball from the lucky fan who caught it... Yankees.com reported that in return for the souvenir, Curtis had to trade Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez autographs, each of which he had to get from the future Hall of Famers himself!

"It worked out perfect," Gardner said. "Shoot I was up there trying to get the guy in from third. He went up there and hit a three-run homer."

Speaking of Jeter and A-Rod, the pair each went deep in the Bronx Bombers win over the Royals Thursday. The captain notched only his second inside-the-park homer in 16 seasons. Rodriguez, on the other hand, put his 599th home run over the right field fence. He'll turn 35 years-old on July 27 and if he hits another home run sometime in the next calendar year, he will become the youngest player ever to join the 600 HR club. Babe Ruth currently holds the record, he was 36 when he clubbed number 600. If A-Rod does it Saturday, he has a chance to go deep off the same guy who gave up his 500th home run back in August 2007, Kyle Davies. Deja vu all over again!

--Oswalt Offering has Odd Twist

Roy Oswalt has wanted to be traded to a contender all season, however now he's only concentrating on winning another one for his Houston Astros. In ten seasons with the 'stros he has accumulated 143 wins, good for second best on the club's all-time wins list behind Joe Niekro who threw for the team from 1975-1985. Oswalt asked manager Brad Mills to get him two starts before the July 31 trade deadline, according to astros.com, in order to give him an extra outing to tie Niekro. He will go for victory number 144 Saturday vs. Cincinnati. In 33 career games against the NL Central rival Reds, Oswalt is 23-2 with a 2.62 ERA, 1.127 WHIP, .237 BA against, and a 3.13 K/BB ratio (source: baseball-reference.com). Rumors suggest Oswalt will be dealt to either the Cardinals or Phillies, I'm praying he leaves the Central for reasons listed previously. We're talking a .920 win pct. versus my boys!!

Although there's never a deadline, trading in the fantasy world is also getting juicy around this time. Empathize with Yahoo!'s Andy Behrens about all your roto trade woes, I guarantee there's at least one of these guys in your league as well! (Thanks to Andy for the heads up on this entertaining article)

--Drawing Blood

Bud Selig announced Major League Baseball will begin testing for human growth hormone, starting in the minors, by taking blood samples from players. This from nytimes.com:
Olympic athletes have been subject to blood testing for many years, but baseball's decision marks the first time that a professional league in North America will test its players' blood for signs of doping.

--Record-Breaking Rose Bat Goes for $158,776

The bat Pete used to finish his Major League career with 4,256 hits (most hits in MLB history) was sold at an online auction this month, seven bids were entered. Think it'll get X-rayed? Some people love to kick a guy when he's down, or make fun of his hat at a ballgame...

Lastly, I'll end on a happier note -- happier, that is, for everyone except these guys (found this vid via Mo Egger's blog, check it out):

Here are a few things I found interesting and wanted to share:

--Yanks Goin' Yard!

Brett Gardner got tossed in the Yankees 10-6 victory over the Angels Wednesday after arguing a called strike two, no worries though. The speedy center fielder knew exactly what he was doing. Rookie Collin Curtis promptly stepped up to the plate down 0-2, worked the count to 3-2, then parked one in the short porch in right at Yankee Stadium, his first Major League round-tripper & first curtain call (watch here). Watch towards the end of the video as an employee gets the HR ball from the lucky fan who caught it... Yankees.com reported that in return for the souvenir, Curtis had to trade Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez autographs, each of which he had to get from the future Hall of Famers himself!

"It worked out perfect," Gardner said. "Shoot I was up there trying to get the guy in from third. He went up there and hit a three-run homer."

Speaking of Jeter and A-Rod, the pair each went deep in the Bronx Bombers win over the Royals Thursday. The captain notched only his second inside-the-park homer in 16 seasons. Rodriguez, on the other hand, put his 599th home run over the right field fence. He'll turn 35 years-old on July 27 and if he hits another home run sometime in the next calendar year, he will become the youngest player ever to join the 600 HR club. Babe Ruth currently holds the record, he was 36 when he clubbed number 600. If A-Rod does it Saturday, he has a chance to go deep off the same guy who gave up his 500th home run back in August 2007, Kyle Davies. Deja vu all over again!

--Oswalt Offering has Odd Twist

Roy Oswalt has wanted to be traded to a contender all season, however now he's only concentrating on winning another one for his Houston Astros. In ten seasons with the 'stros he has accumulated 143 wins, good for second best on the club's all-time wins list behind Joe Niekro who threw for the team from 1975-1985. Oswalt asked manager Brad Mills to get him two starts before the July 31 trade deadline, according to astros.com, in order to give him an extra outing to tie Niekro. He will go for victory number 144 Saturday vs. Cincinnati. In 33 career games against the NL Central rival Reds, Oswalt is 23-2 with a 2.62 ERA, 1.127 WHIP, .237 BA against, and a 3.13 K/BB ratio (source: baseball-reference.com). Rumors suggest Oswalt will be dealt to either the Cardinals or Phillies, I'm praying he leaves the Central for reasons listed previously. We're talking a .920 win pct. versus my boys!!

Although there's never a deadline, trading in the fantasy world is also getting juicy around this time. Empathize with Yahoo!'s Andy Behrens about all your roto trade woes, I guarantee there's at least one of these guys in your league as well! (Thanks to Andy for the heads up on this entertaining article)

--Drawing Blood

Bud Selig announced Major League Baseball will begin testing for human growth hormone, starting in the minors, by taking blood samples from players. This from nytimes.com:
Olympic athletes have been subject to blood testing for many years, but baseball's decision marks the first time that a professional league in North America will test its players' blood for signs of doping.

--Record-Breaking Rose Bat Goes for $158,776

The bat Pete used to finish his Major League career with 4,256 hits (most hits in MLB history) was sold at an online auction this month, seven bids were entered. Think it'll get X-rayed? Some people love to kick a guy when he's down, or make fun of his hat at a ballgame...

Lastly, I'll end on a happier note -- happier, that is, for everyone except these guys (found this vid via Mo Egger's blog, check it out):

The Strasburg Effect (The Big Read Machine)

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:56:00 +0200

Stephen Strasburg's ninth career start (5-2) Wednesday in Cincinnati was both a typical and unusual appearance by the rookie fireballer. The Nationals offense uncharacteristically produced runs, putting up eight in support of Strasburg's fifth win of the season, well above his average run support of 4.59. Similar to his past starts, however, was the size of the crowd; 37,868 fans were in attendance at Great American Ballpark, the first week night sellout in Cincinnati in four years according to USA Today. I call it 'The Strasburg Effect'. The kid has sold out the stadium in 44 percent of his starts, and it's no secret that when he takes the mound fans come to the yard to watch. Here are the numbers:

Tues. June 8 @ PIT -- attendance = 40,315 (96.2% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 20,056, difference = 20,259
Sun. June 13 @ CLE -- attendance = 32,876 (72.7% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 16,636, difference = 16,240
Fri. June 18 vs. CWS -- attendance = 40,325 (96.3% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,426, difference = 16,899
Wed. June 23 vs. KC -- attendance = 31,913 (76.2% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,426, difference = 8,487
Mon. June 28 @ ATL -- attendance = 42,889 (86.2% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 30,551, difference = 12,338
Sat. July 3 vs. NYM -- attendance = 39,214 (93.6 % full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,426, difference = 15,788
Fri. July 9 vs. SFG -- attendance = 34,723 (82.9% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,426, difference = 11,297
Fri. July 16 @ FLA -- attendance = 27,037 (70.1% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 17,096, difference = 9,941
Wed. July 21 @ CIN -- attendance = 37,868 (89.5% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,783, difference = 14,085

*AVG INCREASE IN ATTENDANCE WHEN STRASBURG PITCHES = 13,926

Source: ESPN.com

Tues. June 8 @ PIT -- attendance = 40,315 (96.2% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 20,056, difference = 20,259
Sun. June 13 @ CLE -- attendance = 32,876 (72.7% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 16,636, difference = 16,240
Fri. June 18 vs. CWS -- attendance = 40,325 (96.3% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,426, difference = 16,899
Wed. June 23 vs. KC -- attendance = 31,913 (76.2% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,426, difference = 8,487
Mon. June 28 @ ATL -- attendance = 42,889 (86.2% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 30,551, difference = 12,338
Sat. July 3 vs. NYM -- attendance = 39,214 (93.6 % full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,426, difference = 15,788
Fri. July 9 vs. SFG -- attendance = 34,723 (82.9% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,426, difference = 11,297
Fri. July 16 @ FLA -- attendance = 27,037 (70.1% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 17,096, difference = 9,941
Wed. July 21 @ CIN -- attendance = 37,868 (89.5% full), avg. 2010 attendance = 23,783, difference = 14,085

*AVG INCREASE IN ATTENDANCE WHEN STRASBURG PITCHES = 13,926

Source: ESPN.com

As Ohioans Burn LeBron Gear, Ohio State Will Stick with James' Nike Gear (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:50:05 +0200

If you search "LeBron Burn" on YouTube, you'll find more than a few people in Ohio (and presumably across the country) that have decided to divest themselves of their LeBron James apparel by way of open flame. Meanwhile, the Ohio State Buckeyes are making no such move

The Plain Dealer has the details:

In October 2009, Ohio State presented James with a No. 23 Ohio State basketball jersey before a Cavaliers exhibition game in Columbus. When Nike created James apparel, the Buckeyes were the first to put his logo on their uniforms in 2007. (The Buckeyes' jerseys have sported only a regular Nike logo for the past two years, but the Buckeyes still wear James' shoes.)
Though James left Cleveland, Ohio State coach Thad Matta hopes his team continues its association with James on some level. "In my opinion, LeBron still loves Ohio, still loves Ohio State," Matta said Wednesday. "I hope that he remains a huge fan of ours because I'm still a huge fan of his. In my position, it's more who he is as a basketball player, not who he's playing for.

"Obviously, I view LeBron as one of the all-time greats. I do wish he would have stayed in Cleveland."

Given Matta's success at Ohio State, he's got some wiggle room with fans, but I wonder how this will play when it comes to actual shoppers. Will Ohio State fans try to steer away from Buckeyes gear that has a LeBron logo?

(Image of last year's Nike Zoom Soldier III via Foot Locker Unlocked. H/T to Rush The Court)

The Plain Dealer has the details:

In October 2009, Ohio State presented James with a No. 23 Ohio State basketball jersey before a Cavaliers exhibition game in Columbus. When Nike created James apparel, the Buckeyes were the first to put his logo on their uniforms in 2007. (The Buckeyes' jerseys have sported only a regular Nike logo for the past two years, but the Buckeyes still wear James' shoes.)
Though James left Cleveland, Ohio State coach Thad Matta hopes his team continues its association with James on some level. "In my opinion, LeBron still loves Ohio, still loves Ohio State," Matta said Wednesday. "I hope that he remains a huge fan of ours because I'm still a huge fan of his. In my position, it's more who he is as a basketball player, not who he's playing for.

"Obviously, I view LeBron as one of the all-time greats. I do wish he would have stayed in Cleveland."

(Image of last year's Nike Zoom Soldier III via Foot Locker Unlocked. H/T to Rush The Court)

T-Time: The San Euro (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:17:14 +0200

WHY YOU NEED IT: Everyone's talking NBA, so we shall, too. There are a couple big names out there, but we'll talk about the biggest: Tony Parker. Yes, the stealthy Spur is honored with this NV Euro tee, which simply takes the Spurs logo and replaces it with a styled "Euro." Parker doesn't get nearly enough t-shirt rep, so it's nice of NV Euro to come through and honor the French point guard. They could have gone with the French flag colors in the background to make it better, but this will have to do.

PRICE: $30

BUY IT NOW: NV Euro Spurs tee

Have a product that you think should be featured on FirstCuts? E-mail firstcuts[at]sportingnews.com?

PRICE: $30

BUY IT NOW: NV Euro Spurs tee

Have a product that you think should be featured on FirstCuts? E-mail firstcuts[at]sportingnews.com?

2K Sports Issues the Jordan Challenge; Play with 10 Versions of Michael Jordan (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:04:12 +0200

Much of the excitement about the upcoming crop of NBA games will come from playing with reshuffled rosters across the league, but NBA 2K11 is giving itself a major distinction with a new mode called The Jordan Challenge.

CNBC's Darren Rovell has the particulars:

The mode allows fans to play with 10 different versions of Jordan that are authentic to that moment. [...] Fans can play whatever game they want in whatever order — in other words, the game comes with all the highlighted games and don't have to be unlocked one at a time.

Which Jordans will you play with, according to CNBC this is what you can expect at least in part:

-- April 20, 1986: Jordan scores 63 vs. the Celtics.
-- March 28, 1990: Jordan scores 69 vs. the Cavs.
-- June 3, 1992: Jordan scores 35 in the first half vs. Blazers.
-- March 18, 1995: Jordan's double nickel vs. the Knicks.
-- June 11, 1997: The Flu Game. (If you have to ask who it's against, we can't be friends.)

My favorite detail is that, according to Rovell, knocking down six 3-pointers against the Blazers will cause M.J. to break out in his iconic shrug.

Is this the knockout blow in the NBA simulation gaming world for this upcoming season? More details are expected from 2K Sports later today and we'll update when those details are available.

(H/T to CNBC. Image via USA Today)

CNBC's Darren Rovell has the particulars:

The mode allows fans to play with 10 different versions of Jordan that are authentic to that moment. [...] Fans can play whatever game they want in whatever order — in other words, the game comes with all the highlighted games and don't have to be unlocked one at a time.

Which Jordans will you play with, according to CNBC this is what you can expect at least in part:

My favorite detail is that, according to Rovell, knocking down six 3-pointers against the Blazers will cause M.J. to break out in his iconic shrug.

Is this the knockout blow in the NBA simulation gaming world for this upcoming season? More details are expected from 2K Sports later today and we'll update when those details are available.

(H/T to CNBC. Image via USA Today)

Ryne Sandberg’s Resume (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 08:00:00 +0200

Single-A — Peoria Chiefs 2007: (71-68)…lost Midwest League Championship Game. 2008: (60-78)…7th place, 18.5 games back. Double-A — Tennessee Smokies 2009: (71-69)…2nd place division. Triple-A — Iowa Cubs 2010: (56-39)…leading North Division by 7-games.

Single-A — Peoria Chiefs
2007: (71-68)…lost Midwest League Championship Game.
2008: (60-78)…7th place, 18.5 games back.

Double-A — Tennessee Smokies
2009: (71-69)…2nd place division.

Triple-A — Iowa Cubs
2010: (56-39)…leading North Division by 7-games.

EA Sports Active Gets NFL Training Camp Twist (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:11:54 +0200

When initially released, EA Sports Active really targeted a female audience, but in November that will change.

Today, EA SPORTS™, a label of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS), announced the development of EA SPORTS Active NFL Training Camp for the Wii™, a football-based training program that put users right into the football drills and conditioning workouts of an NFL training camp. Developed in collaboration with NFL strength and conditioning coaches, users will experience the thrill of competition while challenging friends and family in authentic NFL football drills. EA SPORTS Active NFL Training Camp with Total Body Tracking uses the included heart rate monitor and wireless motion tracking to provide a challenging workout and help deliver measurable results. It will link to the EA SPORTS Active online hub where users can share training results and challenge others to beat their personal best, as well as track progress toward specific fitness goals.* EA SPORTS Active NFL Training Camp brings the real NFL training camp experience right into the living room, and will be available at retailers on November 16.

The game drops on Nov. 16 -- my birthday, so take note holiday shoppers! -- and it will retail for $99.99. Is this enough to entice you into the EA Active arena?

When initially released, EA Sports Active really targeted a female audience, but in November that will change.

Today, EA SPORTS™, a label of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS), announced the development of EA SPORTS Active NFL Training Camp for the Wii™, a football-based training program that put users right into the football drills and conditioning workouts of an NFL training camp. Developed in collaboration with NFL strength and conditioning coaches, users will experience the thrill of competition while challenging friends and family in authentic NFL football drills. EA SPORTS Active NFL Training Camp with Total Body Tracking uses the included heart rate monitor and wireless motion tracking to provide a challenging workout and help deliver measurable results. It will link to the EA SPORTS Active online hub where users can share training results and challenge others to beat their personal best, as well as track progress toward specific fitness goals.* EA SPORTS Active NFL Training Camp brings the real NFL training camp experience right into the living room, and will be available at retailers on November 16.

The game drops on Nov. 16 -- my birthday, so take note holiday shoppers! -- and it will retail for $99.99. Is this enough to entice you into the EA Active arena?

First Look at NBA Elite 11 with Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Brandon Jennings (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 19:59:32 +0200

Fans have to be excited about the new controls, but I must admit I'm surprised at how unpolished the graphics look. Still, it does say work in progress, and ultimately I'd take sub-par graphics for a basketball game that doesn't feel like you're playing on ice skates.

7/21: Indians at Twins (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 19:29:03 +0200

Today's 1:10 p.m. ET game at Target Field is not on TV in Cleveland, but you can listen along on WTAM, watch on MLB.TV or follow along on my Twitter account (@castrovince). Austin Kearns still out with knee soreness, while Travis...

So Long Sweet Lou (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:00:46 +0200

Lou was the right man for the job in 2007. Now he’s leaving at the right time, too. Of course, we didn’t get the championship or the explosive Lou of years past, but who won’t miss those classic post-game press conferences? The long pauses, the play-by-play of the game and those all too familier Lou-isms! [...]

Lou was the right man for the job in 2007.
Now he’s leaving at the right time, too.

Of course, we didn’t get the championship or the explosive Lou
of years past, but who won’t miss those classic post-game
press conferences?

The long pauses, the play-by-play of the game and those
all too familier Lou-isms!

My personal favorites:
–”winning is like a massage, it’s very relaxing.”
–”he’s stroking the ball well, he really is.”
–”I don’t care about feelings.”
–”what can I do?”

The two division titles were thrilling, especially 2008, my most
enjoyable season of baseball to date.

The postseason, obviously, was heartbreaking–two series, two sweeps.
Didn’t help that Lou wasn’t at his best, either.

The skipper made the mistake of removing Zambrano too early in Game 1 of
the 2007 NLDS at Arizona. Then, failed to start Ted Lilly in 2008
against the Dodgers, going instead with Depmster, Zambrano & Harden.

There were other bone-headed moves too: Fukudome in the starting lineup, Reed Johnson on the bench & Soriano in the leadoff spot.

But Piniella isn’t deserving of all the blame, not in the playoffs
and not for the last two seasons, either.

Like any manager, Lou is at the mercy of his players.
Two years they got it done, two years they didn’t.
Right or wrong, the manager takes the blame.

Piniella’s stay won’t end the way we wanted it to, or the way we expected it to.
But something tells me we’ll look back on the skipper’s stay fondly.
Winning or losing, Cubs baseball has been interesting the last four years. And for that, we can thanks Sweet Lou.

7/20: Indians at Twins (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 03:38:03 +0200

Tonight's 8:10 p.m. ET game at Target Field is on WTAM and STO. Austin Kearns (right knee soreness) and Michael Brantley (injured right shoulder) are both day-to-day. Brantley hurt his shoulder diving for a ball in the outfield last night....

Cabrera returns to Tribe, Lewis to return to Columbus (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 02:57:26 +0200

By Anthony Castrovince/MLB.comhttp://www.twitter.com/castrovince Asdrubal Cabrera is back, ahead of schedule. Cabrera was activated off the disabled list in advance of Tuesday's game with the Twins and immediately slotted back into the leadoff spot of manager Manny Acta's order. To make...

Sweet Lou (The Big Read Machine)

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 22:04:00 +0200

Lou Piniella, manager of the Chicago Cubs, will retire at the end of this season reports the Chicago Tribune. He has managed five teams since his debut in 1986 including the Yankees, Reds, Mariners, and former Devil Rays. Piniella won his only World Series title in his first season managing the Reds, however he arguably had more success in Seattle (with Griffey Jr., A-Rod, Randy Johnson, Edgar Martinez, Jay Buhner, etc.). He was named AL Manager of the Year twice in '95 and '01, losing the American League Division Championship series in each despite winning 116 regular season games in 2001. In his four years managing the Cubs (307-271), Piniella took his club to the postseason only once in 2008 after winning the NL Central, but promptly lost three straight to the Dodgers in the NLDS. As of Monday, the Cubs were 42-52 and 10.5 games out of first place in the Central. His managerial record is 1826-1691 good for a .519 win pct.

We've all seen Lou get tossed from a game or two arguing a questionable call for one of his players, but how about a video of the man himself getting tossed AS a player with the New York Yankees... Piniella's playing career: 1964-84, playing for the Yankees, Royals, Indians, and Orioles. Career stats: 1747 games played, 1705 hits, 102 HR, 766 RBI, .291 BA, .333 OBP

Video Of Roy Halladay At Wrigley Field (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 08:00:59 +0200

Here’s some video I shot from the Skybox On Sheffield Sunday Night. It’s the pre-game bullpen session of Phillies ace Roy Halladay, who entered the game riding an 18-consecutive scoreless innings streak! That ended with the Cubs scoring four runs in the second inning en route to an 11-6 win. Halladay took the loss allowing [...]

Here’s some video I shot from the " target="_blank">Skybox On Sheffield Sunday Night.

It’s the pre-game bullpen session of Phillies ace Roy Halladay,
who entered the game riding an 18-consecutive scoreless innings streak!

That ended with the Cubs scoring four runs in the second inning
en route to an 11-6 win.

Halladay took the loss allowing 6 runs (5 earned) in 6-innings.
Soto and Soriano homered off the right-hander, as well.

"An ice cream truck on a deserted street" (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 05:04:11 +0200

By Anthony Castrovince/MLB.comhttp://www.twitter.com/castrovince Upon arrival to the press box at Target Field today, media members were greeted by three items -- a Mr. Potato Head doll, an invitation to try some free Blue Bunny ice cream and a Tonic Sol-fa CD....

Glen Donnellan (The Big Read Machine)

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:35:00 +0200

Warning: Today's post will be black and white, but mostly Reds all over... sorry if that's not your thing. However, driving home from Chicago I remembered this guy: Introducing musician and mad scientist Glen Donnellan.

It's kind of like Jimi Hendrix meets the symphony meets a Louisville Slugger. Three words come to mind, God Bless America! Donnellan plays in the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington D.C. and hand made an electric violin out of an ash baseball bat (see image below)

Reds Rant:

--Jason Isringhausen might throw a bullpen at GABP? Seriously Walt? Do we really need a washed up former Cardinal when available pitchers include Harang, Arroyo, Cueto, Leake, Volquez, Bailey, Wood, Maloney, and Owings. It's doubtful as to whether he can help the bullpen, Jordan Smith, Logan Ondrusek, and Arthur Rhodes have been pretty solid lately and here's what Homer told Enquirer beat writer John Fay Monday:

"Whatever they want me to do," he said. "You've got to learn to make adjustments. I'll do whatever they want me to."

--Jay Bruce is bad and people are starting to notice. RedReporter reports (redundant, I know) Bruce is batting .140/.189/.220 for the month of July, with ZERO RBI.

--The combination of Edinson's first start, a Hall of Fame Inductee ceremony, Chris Sabo bobblehead night, and two performances by MC Hammer proved to be a perfect storm as the Reds sold out the ballpark by the Ohio. Attendance was 41,300.

--Unfortunately the Reds 1-0 loss Sunday, their third 1-0 loss in five games dating back to before the break reported John Fay. The cards won and took a half-game lead in the Central.

--The visiting Washington Nationals will send Stephen Strasburg to the hill Wednesday night, I'm trying to go but counting on buying walk-up same day tickets which probably won't be available at the box office. I heard on a local radio station today that since his start was announced, the Reds have sold 1,000 tickets per day and sold 3,000 Monday alone. Get your tickets online here.

Reds Rant:

"Whatever they want me to do," he said. "You've got to learn to make adjustments. I'll do whatever they want me to."

--Jay Bruce is bad and people are starting to notice. RedReporter reports (redundant, I know) Bruce is batting .140/.189/.220 for the month of July, with ZERO RBI.

--Unfortunately the Reds 1-0 loss Sunday, their third 1-0 loss in five games dating back to before the break reported John Fay. The cards won and took a half-game lead in the Central.

7/19: Indians at Twins (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 23:10:39 +0200

Tonight's 8:10 p.m. ET game at Target Field is on WTAM and STO. The Indians are looking to begin the second half of a season at 5-0 for the first time ever. INDIANS (38-54): CF Brantley, 2B Nix, C Santana,...

T-Time: The LeBron Backlash Tees (Chris Littmann, BSJ '05)

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 21:49:44 +0200

WHY YOU NEED IT: LeBron is no longer a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Sad, especially for us Clevelanders. The manner in which he made his decision, however, and the destination that he chose have raised the ire of the NBA community. Naturally, this anger has extended into apparel, because everyone needs something to wear next year when Traitor James and the Heat come to town. There are a ton of designs out there, some funny, some not, some crass, some just clever, but we don't have room for all of them here. (Stop by this link if you want a roundup of what designs are out there.)

Instead, the one we'll showcase today is from a designer in Cleveland, I Love the Hype. You may remember them as the shop behind the Delonte West tees. In fact, most hoopheads probably were familiar with I Love the Hype thanks to their dozens of designs over the season. So it's only fitting we return there now that The Decision is over. This design? Simple and to the point. Playing off the classic Sports Illustrated cover with the cartoon Modell punching the Cleveland Dawg in the stomach, ILTH just replaces Modell with LeBron and puts a Cavs jersey on the dog. Same feeling. Same villains.

PRICE: $29.99

BUY IT NOW: The Decision tee

Have a product that you think should be featured on FirstCuts? E-mail firstcuts[at]sportingnews.com?

PRICE: $29.99

BUY IT NOW: The Decision tee

Have a product that you think should be featured on FirstCuts? E-mail firstcuts[at]sportingnews.com?

Give It Up For Tom Gorzelanny! (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:00:14 +0200

Huge series win for the Cubs! Should’ve been a four-game sweep, but 3-of-4 ain’t bad. After watching Marmol’s meltdown and Soto’s missed hurried tag on Saturday, I figured the Cubs would split the series facing Roy Halladay Sunday night. But who thought Tom Gorzelanny would outduel the Phillies’ ace, who was riding an 18-consecutive scoreless [...]

Huge series win for the Cubs!
Should’ve been a four-game sweep, but 3-of-4 ain’t bad.

After watching Marmol’s meltdown and Soto’s missed hurried tag on Saturday,
I figured the Cubs would split the series facing Roy Halladay Sunday night.

But who thought Tom Gorzelanny would outduel the Phillies’ ace, who
was riding an 18-consecutive scoreless innings streak!

Gorzo’s made a strong statement since spelling Zambrano in the rotation.
He’s 3-0 with a 3.06 ERA in his last three starts, having allowed
three or fewer runs in 10-of-13 outings, including the last four.
That’s Big-Time!

No question Gorzelanny’s name resurfaces in trade rumors this month.
But the Cubs shouldn’t deal this guy. He’s young, affordable, and a solid
back-of-the-rotation starter. At the very least, he’s more dependable
than Carlos Zambrano.

A Day in the Life (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 17:05:31 +0200

By Anthony Castrovince/MLB.comhttp://www.twitter.com/castrovince For a while now, I've been meaning to do a blog entry that chronicles the average day in the life of a baseball beat reporter. But today is far from average. It's a day-night doubleheader. And what...

A Classic Marmol Meltdown (Brian Corbin, BSJ '06)

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 08:00:54 +0200

It’s scary how quickly Carlos Marmol falls apart. And yet, remarkable how often he escapes his own jams. The guy’s made an art form out of walking the bags full, then striking out the side. But Marmol has to be more efficient and more accountable than he was Saturday in the season’s second half. Although [...]

It’s scary how quickly Carlos Marmol falls apart.
And yet, remarkable how often he escapes his own jams.

The guy’s made an art form out of walking the bags
full, then striking out the side.

But Marmol has to be more efficient and more
accountable than he was Saturday in the season’s
second half.

Although unlikely, it’s still possible for our Cubbies
to make a little run at the division title.

The starting staff continues to lead the majors in quality
starts, and the offense is clicking as well as it has all season.

But sustaining aspirations of a second half run means the Cubs
must rely heavily on Marmol to close the door.

Far more than they did in the first half with the closer
getting just six save-opportunities in the Cubs’ last 34-games.

With the clock ticking away on the 2010 season, and the pressure
to win cranked-up, there’s not a better time for Marmol to show he’s legit
closer material…for this season and beyond.

"It's tough to get a good read. But I think if I brought him a chair, he'd sit." (Anthony Castrovince, BSJ '03)

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 18:12:41 +0200

By Anthony Castrovince/MLB.comhttp://www.twitter.com/castrovince Tonight's blog entry goes out to Progressive Field press box attendant John "Popper" Krepop, who replaced my busted seat in the box with the Cadillac of work chairs -- a cloth swivel chair with reclining capabilities. This...