Baltimore @ Texas 4/14/09

[isestrex]

2B Roberts
CF Jones
RF Markakis
1B Huff
3B Wigginton
DH Scott
C Zaun
LF Pie
SS Izturis
vs
McCarthy (1-0) 5.40 ERA


2B Kinsler
3B Young
CF Hamilton
DH Blaylock
RF Cruz
LF Murphy
1B Davis
C Saltalamacchia
SS Vizquel (yes as in "Omar")
vs
Simon (0-1) 7.20 ERA



Looks like no love for Pie's great day (he's still in the 8th slot), and we get our first look at Salty and the ancient one in Omar.

[mrbig1]

could be a replay of last night. I believe Simon is going to pitch well tonight. Pitching well against Texas means only giving up 7 runs. The O's will win tonight.

[mrbig1]

P.S. Luke is going to have his break out game tonight. 2 or more hits with a home run.

[Arthorn]

P.S. Luke is going to have his break out game tonight. 2 or more hits with a home run.

You better not be lying!

[nemO821]

I think Pie is 8th only because if he gets on base he'll have the top of the order hitting behind him.

[mrbig1]

Happy birthday Greg Zaun.

[nemO821]

That was not a good inning.

[isestrex]

Jonesy's strikeouts are starting to worry me.

that's 9 on the year already.

[Palmer Esque]

Jonesy's strikeouts are starting to worry me.

that's 9 on the year already.

Yeah, I think he will always be a high k guy. I love him , and he will be a star, he just seems prone to the K.

[mrbig1]

You better not be lying!

I don't lie.

[nemO821]

Jonesy's strikeouts are starting to worry me.

that's 9 on the year already.

Im starting to think Jones is feeling pressured to play at the same level as Markakis and Roberts and thats causing him to struggle.

[Palmer Esque]

Man Texas just rakes. Unbelievable.

Hey there we go Zaun....!!!!!!!

[nemO821]

Zaun nails Kinsler trying to run. Close play though.

[randommetalguy]

We FINALLY threw someone out. That was all thanks to Simon. With DCab it woudl be runner on second with no out.

[PaulFolk]

Im starting to think Jones is feeling pressured to play at the same level as Markakis and Roberts and thats causing him to struggle.
"Struggle"? He's hitting .357!

[isestrex]

We got one!!!!

[PaulBako]

Oh no. :( Young hits a homer.

[SimplyZ]

someone wrote on the forums earlier about how young and kinsler ALWAYS hit us


There ya go

[Palmer Esque]

That is pathetic by Simon. You can't fall behind and groove one.

Oy Vey.

[randommetalguy]

Is Simon prone to the longball?

[nemO821]

"Struggle"? He's hitting .357!

Im just saying the past couple of games he's been swinging at some bad pitches that remind me of last year.

[randommetalguy]

Anyone else find it funny that Texas's HR music is the same as Cal Ripken driving around the outfield shaking people's hands music?

[GotNitro]

Is Simon prone to the longball?

It would appear that way.

[PaulFolk]

Anyone else find it funny that Texas's HR music is the same as Cal Ripken driving around the outfield shaking people's hands music?
I was just thinking that. It kind of cheapens the music for me.

[Big Mac]

Jonesy's strikeouts are starting to worry me.

that's 9 on the year already.

He's going to strike out a lot throughout his career, IMO.

People make a big deal about Pie's strikeouts, but Jones actually had a higher K rate in the minors than Pie.

[24HOR]

Nice job to get the next two guys on four pitches. We need more of that.

[GotNitro]

Ugh, have to switch back and forth until Idol is over at 9. Keep me posted!

[PaulFolk]

Literally every time I turn to MLB Network, they're talking about the Orioles. Right now they're talking about how cool it is that Trembley's managing the club after spending so many years in the minors.

[nemO821]

Huff is on fire.

[SimplyZ]

Huff Daddy!

Sweet tie game

[PaulBako]

Home Run! Aubrey Huff! :clap3:

[mrbig1]

Huff daddy:clap3:

[TyCobb]

That was a beatiful approach by Huff. High fastball and sat on that high curve.

[isestrex]

About time Huff :D

[PaulBako]

Ugh, have to switch back and forth until Idol is over at 9. Keep me posted!

Tell me how the singers are doing. :D

[nemO821]

Literally every time I turn to MLB Network, they're talking about the Orioles. Right now they're talking about how cool it is that Trembley's managing the club after spending so many years in the minors.

God I wish I had MLB Network. I stuck with ESPN which hasn't shown O's highlights the past 3 days.

[isestrex]

MLB Network is a breath of fresh air for baseball fans

[El Gordo]

Huffmeister says tit for tat.:clap3:

[SimplyZ]

God I wish I had MLB Network. I stuck with ESPN which hasn't shown O's highlights the past 3 days.

They're too busy capitalizing on Adenhardt's death

[GotNitro]

Tell me how the singers are doing. :D

Alison sang "I don't want to miss a thing", the judges liked it, I thought it was horrendous.

Anoop sang "Everything I do...I do it for you" It was okay, the judges liked it as well.

Go O's, hurry up 9:00. I like Idol, but not when the O's are on!

[fansince71]

Ugh, have to switch back and forth until Idol is over at 9. Keep me posted!

Time to turn in your Man card after that concession.

[isestrex]

Alison sang "I don't want to miss a thing", the judges liked it, I thought it was horrendous.

Anoop sang "Everything I do...I do it for you" It was okay, the judges liked it as well.

Go O's, hurry up 9:00. I like Idol, but not when the O's are on!

I think he was joking... we don't care about Idol

[nemO821]

They're too busy capitalizing on Adenhardt's death


And the pure greatness of Dwayne Wade. I swear on Monday ESPN devoted a half hour of the show to Dwayne Wade.

[GotNitro]

Time to turn in your Man card after that concession.

I would say it is because of the wife, but I concede. :D

[GotNitro]

I think he was joking... we don't care about Idol

Sorry, please keep the O's news coming and I will shut up until I can watch the game. :D

[Jdan14]

Don't worry everyone. I am here for the thread today.

[PaulBako]

Alison sang "I don't want to miss a thing", the judges liked it, I thought it was horrendous.

Anoop sang "Everything I do...I do it for you" It was okay, the judges liked it as well.

Go O's, hurry up 9:00. I like Idol, but not when the O's are on!

Thanks. I want Anoop to do well. :D Though I have a feeling that he might get voted out this week.

So glad there is no more Megan Corkery. :eek:

[PaulBako]

Don't worry everyone. I am here for the thread today.

Phew! Good thing you are here. I can relax now. :laughlol:

[RShack]

Thanks. I want Anoop to do well. :D Though I have a feeling that he might get voted out this week.

So glad there is no more Megan Corkery. :eek:
Stop it.

[SimplyZ]

And the pure greatness of Dwayne Wade. I swear on Monday ESPN devoted a half hour of the show to Dwayne Wade.

Well I guess discussing who will win MVP is more important than showing us what the players are doing


I'm waiting for the day "NBA MVP Award sponsored by ESPN"

then they can just pick the winner themselves

[nemO821]

Phew! Good thing you are here. I can relax now. :laughlol:

Its gonna be a long night w/ that type of pitching.

[mrbig1]

Not good.:angryfire:

[Palmer Esque]

That was one of the worst changeups I have ever seen in my life.

Back to back bad changes. Ouch.

[amateurfan]

I'm still amazed that Alfredo Simon is in our rotation. It's so absurd.

[J.D.]

That was one of the worst changeups I have ever seen in my life.

Back to back bad changes. Ouch.

I think I could've hit that out. I'm almost certain that Cesar Izturis would've abused that pitch.

[fansince71]

What the......how many HR hitters do they have?

[TyCobb]

I prefer Eaton to Simon. That is how bad I think Simon is.

[Palmer Esque]

Paul Bako,

Adam puts the rest of the contestants to shame..

No more Idol talk.

[PaulBako]

Its hard to win games without good pitching.

[isestrex]

I'm still amazed that Alfredo Simon is in our rotation. It's so absurd.

...and your obvious alternative is????

[Rex Thunder]

"Struggle"? He's hitting .357!

Thank you. Geez.

[Jdan14]

Can we form a mob and tear down this god damn stadium. I hate playing at Texas. I feel like its wiffle ball.

[isestrex]

What the......how many HR hitters do they have?

8... Vizquel can't but the rest will hit 20+ this year

[Palmer Esque]

I prefer Eaton to Simon. That is how bad I think Simon is.

I second this...

[Hank Scorpio]

Nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnext!

[nemO821]

Im rooting for Homeruns. I want to set a record for most homeruns in a game.

[Palmer Esque]

Wow,

hate to pile on a guy, but Simon is brutal.

[amateurfan]

This is ridiculous - and they're killing The Natural.

[mrbig1]

This is starting to suck.

[24HOR]

Home run.

Out.

Home run.

Out.

I do not like this pattern.

[Rex Thunder]

I prefer Eaton to Simon. That is how bad I think Simon is.

What are you basing this on?? He looked solid in the spring- the first time I'd ever really seen him. I thought he was okay in his debut against the Yankees as well. Of course as I'm writing this he just gave up another homerun, but you know what- they were all solo. Keep throwing strikes Alfredo and let's go.

Can we let the guy pitch more than 6 total innings though before you assess his skill.

[RVAbird]

I'm still amazed that Alfredo Simon is in our rotation. It's so absurd.

Because roster decisions are all about performance! Spring training performance. The 15 some odd innings that Simon and Bass pitched in spring training proved they were good pitchers because they had the balls to step it up when it counts!

[mrbig1]

Bring in Walker. Please

[nemO821]

Hate to see a guy injured, but maybe bergy will come up now.

[RShack]

DT said Sarfate

[Icterus galbula]

5 of the last 11 hitters he has faced have hit home runs. ugh.

[amateurfan]

...and your obvious alternative is????

The situation is absurd - it doesn't need an alternative. It doesn't need any context. Simon pitching as a SP in the Major Leagues for my team is absurd.

[kreitmaster]

Can somebody alert Simon that the game has started and he should stop pitching batting practice. Thanks

[fansince71]

For those of you watching , were those cheapo HR's or Bombs?

[Hank Scorpio]

Okay, time for Bergesen.

[Rex Thunder]

Wow,

hate to pile on a guy, but Simon is brutal.

Can we calm down? Does everyone remember the 30-3 drubbing? Texas is A GOOD TEAM with a lot of power hitters and they are playing in a very hitter friendly ballpark. Let's see his resolve before we bury him. It's a 2 run game!

[BRob51]

This is ridiculous - and they're killing The Natural.

It's so weak when it's a first inning solo shot...Absolutely ruining the song.

[amateurfan]

5 of the last 11 hitters he has faced have hit home runs. ugh.

You're kidding me? That's horrible. Wonder if Penn will pitch tonight. :)

[Hank Scorpio]

5 of the last 11 hitters he has faced have hit home runs. ugh.

That's gotta be some kind of record, seriously.

How is that even possible?

[Palmer Esque]

Simon is out like the fat kid in dodgeball...

Texas was on him like white on rice....

Ha ha had to sneak those in....:scratchchinhmm:

[Keith SIO]

Another reason why Liz, Albers, or Waters should be in the pen.

[Hank Scorpio]

Can we calm down? Does everyone remember the 30-3 drubbing? Texas is A GOOD TEAM with a lot of power hitters and they are playing in a very hitter friendly ballpark. Let's see his resolve before we bury him. It's a 2 run game!

There's obviously a problem with him.

[mrbig1]

In comes Sarfate.

[isestrex]

For those of you watching , were those cheapo HR's or Bombs?

Bombs... except Huff's... his was on the cheap side

[PaulBako]

Oh no. Sarfate. :(

[Palmer Esque]

Can we calm down? Does everyone remember the 30-3 drubbing? Texas is A GOOD TEAM with a lot of power hitters and they are playing in a very hitter friendly ballpark. Let's see his resolve before we bury him. It's a 2 run game!

Thanks, but I am rather calm. If you dont think he is brutal that is your problem.

But he is brutal. Injury or not.

But from the look of his change, he must have had an injury issue, no one can be that bad with their change. It was served up there whiffleball style.

[dslats715]

Okay, time for Bergesen.

Ding ding!

[wickedwitch]

Wouldn't it be nice if our long man wasn't in AAA?

Bergesen anyone?

[isestrex]

Oh no. Sarfate. :(

The harder they come, the harder they leave

[nemO821]

The situation is absurd - it doesn't need an alternative. It doesn't need any context. Simon pitching as a SP in the Major Leagues for my team is absurd.

Well you need an alternative if you dont want Simon pitching for the O's. If not him, then who?

[DT undercover]

Was it an injury or just bad pitching? I am following on gamecast.

[GotNitro]

Why is Sarfate in, what was the explaination for Simon leaving other than Homerunitis.

[RShack]

For those of you watching , were those cheapo HR's or Bombs?
The last one barely made the seats. Basic dinger in Texas.
Something's physically wrong with Simon. Dunno what.

[Big Mac]

What are you basing this on?? He looked solid in the spring- the first time I'd ever really seen him. I thought he was okay in his debut against the Yankees as well. Of course as I'm writing this he just gave up another homerun, but you know what- they were all solo. Keep throwing strikes Alfredo and let's go.

Can we let the guy pitch more than 6 total innings though before you assess his skill.

Simon has been terrible his entire career, look at his numbers he has never been good.

This experiment was a lost cause from the beginning.

[mrbig1]

Oh no. Sarfate. :(

I agree.:cussing:

[ADZ23]

lol @ Sarfate... orioles lose if they score <10 runs

[nemO821]

Why is Sarfate in, what was the explaination for Simon leaving other than Homerunitis.


Most likely.

[PaulBako]

I watch the hitting then hide during the pitching. :leaving:

[Oriolesfan4life]

Simon left due to a sore neck stemming from having to turn and watch those 3 HR's he gave up.

[RVAbird]

There's obviously a problem with him.

There probably is, but let's call a spade a spade. Simon is not a good pitcher. He never has been, aside from a stint in Mexico and a spring training. I mean, he's probably one of the best few thousand pitchers in the world, but he's just not a good major league pitcher.

[TyCobb]

What are you basing this on?? He looked solid in the spring- the first time I'd ever really seen him. I thought he was okay in his debut against the Yankees as well. Of course as I'm writing this he just gave up another homerun, but you know what- they were all solo. Keep throwing strikes Alfredo and let's go.

Can we let the guy pitch more than 6 total innings though before you assess his skill.

Based on his stuff. Second time I have seen him pitch and I don't think he has the stuff to get big hitters out. Didn't see the stuff he was throwing in spring training.

[RShack]

Was it an injury or just bad pitching? I am following on gamecast.
DT and the trainer came to the mound, they chatted, and Simon left.
Sarfate came in with virtually no warm-up.
So, this is some kind of injury issue.

Sarfate getting extra warm-up time on the mound.

[zff4]

Can we calm down? Let's see his resolve before we bury him. It's a 2 run game!All due respect, Simon doesn't belong on the roster. It's one thing to preach patience for the arrival of our prospects but this is the majors and you play major leaguers. Jeez, I'm feeling like Old5 guy or Jtrea right now.

[nemO821]

Good start for Sarfate. At least Vizquel cant hit a home run.

[PaulBako]

Sarfate strikes out Saltalamacchia.

I need some confidence in Sarfate. I don't trust him.

[isestrex]

Why is Sarfate in, what was the explaination for Simon leaving other than Homerunitis.

The trainer came out and yanked him. We're still waiting on official word why...

[fansince71]

Is Simon hurt? 27 pitches and he's out?

[Rex Thunder]

There's obviously a problem with him.

Exactly. I'm not willing to discount how solid he was all spring for that type of showing. I'll be waiting for Amber's report on what his deal is.

[Hank Scorpio]

Sarfate has really backed off his velocity.

I get why, but it's really weird to see him at 87-90.

[dslats715]

The last one barely made the seats. Basic dinger in Texas.
Something's physically wrong with Simon. Dunno what.

Did anyone else see Izturis was the one who initiated the mound conference?

[Hank Scorpio]

Is Simon hurt? 27 pitches and he's out?

Some kind of injury, yeah.

[The B&G]

i think Sarfate will throw well today and definitely keep us in the game.

[JimDH]

DT and the trainer came to the mound, they chatted, and Simon left.
Sarfate came in with virtually no warm-up.
So, this is some kind of injury issue.

If it's an injury they give Sarfate all the time he needs to warmup, right?

[PaulBako]

If Simon is hurt who would replace his spot in the rotation?

[MarCakes21]

Anyone think this makes Sarfate our next starter? Or Bergeson? Or Albers? Thoughts?

[itsernst]

If it's an injury they give Sarfate all the time he needs to warmup, right?

Correct Sarfate gets as many pitches as needed to warmup.

[PaulFolk]

If Simon is hurt who would replace his spot in the rotation?
Bergesen, I would presume.

[isestrex]

Did anyone else see Izturis was the one who initiated the mound conference?

No really?


...just rewinded and checked... good call. He was the first to notice anything and called Zaun in, but Zaun called out the trainer before even getting to the mound. It looks like both of them saw something.

[Rex Thunder]

Damn. Just got offered a free ticket- club level- to the Lakers game tonight- but I'd have to leave now- or drive on my own. Wow I cant believe Im even debating sticking around to watch the Os game. If they get blown out in the next few innings, I'm gone.

[PaulFolk]

Damn. Just got offered a free ticket- club level- to the Lakers game tonight- but I'd have to leave now- or drive on my own. Wow I cant believe Im even debating sticking around to watch the Os game. If they get blown out in the next few innings, I'm gone.
Wow, dude. Go to the game.

[Palmer Esque]

Exactly. I'm not willing to discount how solid he was all spring for that type of showing. I'll be waiting for Amber's report on what his deal is.

I will be waiting for Amber as well, but whats this about her report? :clap3:

[SimplyZ]

Damn. Just got offered a free ticket- club level- to the Lakers game tonight- but I'd have to leave now- or drive on my own. Wow I cant believe Im even debating sticking around to watch the Os game. If they get blown out in the next few innings, I'm gone.


If i were you i'd go have fun...this isn't gonna be an easy game to watch

[PaulBako]

Damn. Just got offered a free ticket- club level- to the Lakers game tonight- but I'd have to leave now- or drive on my own. Wow I cant believe Im even debating sticking around to watch the Os game. If they get blown out in the next few innings, I'm gone.

Well it's just one Orioles game, and how many games do the Lakers have left at home?

I think you should go.

[RShack]

If it's an injury they give Sarfate all the time he needs to warmup, right?
He got it.

Right before this happened, Palmer said Simon looked way different to him... said something was wrong with him. So, it's like a few people noticed all at once.

[RVAbird]

Exactly. I'm not willing to discount how solid he was all spring for that type of showing. I'll be waiting for Amber's report on what his deal is.

All spring? All spring???

Smallllllllllllll saaaaaaaaaampllllllleeeee siiiiiiiiiizzzeeeee

This isn't the first time he's ever pitched professionally. He's got a lengthy track record of bad pitching. He's maybe one of the best 3-4,000 pitchers in the world, but that still leaves at least 2,999 better options for the starting rotation.

Not good pitcher.

[LAOSfan]

Damn. Just got offered a free ticket- club level- to the Lakers game tonight- but I'd have to leave now- or drive on my own. Wow I cant believe Im even debating sticking around to watch the Os game. If they get blown out in the next few innings, I'm gone.

You can email them to me;) I'm already downtown.

[isestrex]

Well it's just one Orioles game, and how many games do the Lakers have left at home?

I think you should go.

This is their last home game.

[dslats715]

No really?


...just rewinded and checked... good call. He was the first to notice anything and called Zaun in, but Zaun called out the trainer before even getting to the mound. It looks like both of them saw something.

Yea it was kind of weird. I didn't notice anything from Simon, maybe the team did know about something before the game? and he was going to gut it out?

[PaulBako]

This team must love to hit doubles-----one by Roberts. 4th of the season.

[nemO821]

Well I admit i was wrong about Jones.

[isestrex]

Niiiiice speed from Jones

[Big Mac]

If Simon can't make his next start, I wouldn't be surprised if Pauley takes his place.

I'm hoping for Bergesen though.

[mrbig1]

Need a hit Nick.

[RShack]

Yea it was kind of weird. I didn't notice anything from Simon, maybe the team did know about something before the game? and he was going to gut it out?
Nah. People who know more than we do about baseball just noticed it all at the same time. CI, Zaun, Palmer, DT, they all saw whatever it was at once.

[SimplyZ]

This team must love to hit doubles-----one by Roberts. 4th of the season.

Hopefully Wieters can be our HR guy cause we really do have a roster full of doubles hitters

Not that that is a bad thing, but ya know...

[LAOSfan]

Well I admit i was wrong about Jones.

what did you say?

[amateurfan]

Well you need an alternative if you dont want Simon pitching for the O's. If not him, then who?

Simon is the alternative. The question is, "If a good pitcher isn't on the Orioles, what is the alternative?"

[RShack]

Hamilton took the wrong route on BRob's double. And that's in CF. If Pie did that in LF, people would have a fit...

It's now a 1-run game, even with all the whatever-it-was with Simon throwing dingers...

[Palmer Esque]

I wonder if Amber stays at the team hotel?

Way to get a run back there guys.

This team is full of ferocious little never say diers.

[nemO821]

what did you say?

I just said Jones might be feeling pressured to hit as well as Markakis and Roberts and that was causing him to chase bad pitches.

[mrbig1]

Let's see what Sarfate can do this inning.

[RShack]

Did Sarfate just yawn? ;-)

[Rex Thunder]

Well it's just one Orioles game, and how many games do the Lakers have left at home?

I think you should go.

Alright. I'm an idiot. I actually got the call 20 minutes ago. Told him I needed to get ready as I had just gotten home from gym- but not really in the mood for traffic- so told him to ask around and if noone went i was in. Course as soon as I am ready i do feel like going (when i posted the comment)- but alas- someone else snagged it. Oh well. I'll be there for a playoff game.

[dslats715]

P i e!

Hip hip pie! Hip hip pie!!

[Arthorn]

He did it! I'm so proud of Felix!

[Skeletor]

Hey! Nice play felix.

[isestrex]

Latest Thornism:

Sar-fart-e


Love Gary :D

[Hank Scorpio]

Gary Thorne is like the worst name pronouncer I've ever heard in my entire life.

I also like the way he incorrectly identifies pitches. He's called at least 4 fastballs sliders tonight.

[nemO821]

Simon is the alternative. The question is, "If a good pitcher isn't on the Orioles, what is the alternative?"

The alternative is wait and pray Bergy, Tillman, Matusz, and Arrieta come up and save Orioles fans from having to witness the pitching talents of Simon, Eaton, and Hendrickson(even though he's pitched well so far)

[RShack]

Pie ran to the right place on that one... thank God...

[Icterus galbula]

Yeah Pie, show 'em what you're learning!

[PaulBako]

I actually like listening to Gary Thorne.

[24HOR]

Sarfate is using his offspeed pitches alot to start of these hitters and it appears to be working well.

[dslats715]

Gary Thorne is like the worst name pronouncer I've ever heard in my entire life.

I also like the way he incorrectly identifies pitches. He's called at least 4 fastballs sliders tonight.

Yea I was seeing an awful lot of 92 mph "sliders"

[MCL1021]

Latest Thornism:

Sar-fart-e


Love Gary :D

If I were in the booth, I'd giggle a little bit if I heard that....

I can just think of Beavis and Butthead and them laughing...."he said fart":laughlol:

[LAOSfan]

Gary Thorne is like the worst name pronouncer I've ever heard in my entire life.

I also like the way he incorrectly identifies pitches. He's called at least 4 fastballs sliders tonight.

Worse than Brooks?

[RShack]

I actually like listening to Gary Thorne.
Me too. But he doesn't use the monitor, so he gets things like pitch-location wrong all the time, just because he's looking down from the pressbox.

As for the diff between what kind of pitch it was, I often cannot tell, so it doesn't bother me if somebody else can't. Last year in one game thread, vatech said lotsa times he couldn't tell either.

[Palmer Esque]

Gary Thorne is like the worst name pronouncer I've ever heard in my entire life.

I also like the way he incorrectly identifies pitches. He's called at least 4 fastballs sliders tonight.

Its funny though, when he does hockey games, he nails every Russian and Eastern European name every time. I mean he nails them.

Has anyone else noticed this?

[SimplyZ]

Hamilton's stance in the box looks deadly...he has crazy power

[Hank Scorpio]

Worse than Brooks?

Oh, I don't remember.

When Brooks was announcing, I was too young to be able to identify pitches.

[MCL1021]

Me too. But he doesn't use the monitor, so he gets things like pitch-location wrong all the time, just because he's looking down from the pressbox.

As for the diff between what kind of pitch it was, I often cannot tell, so it doesn't bother me if somebody else can't. Last year in one game thread, vatech said lotsa times he couldn't tell either.

I might be stating the obvious here, but what's the advantage if anything of him looking down from the pressbox rather than watching the monitor?

[Palmer Esque]

Me too. But he doesn't use the monitor, so he gets things like pitch-location wrong all the time, just because he's looking down from the pressbox.

As for the diff between what kind of pitch it was, I often cannot tell, so it doesn't bother me if somebody else can't. Last year in one game thread, vatech said lotsa times he couldn't tell either.

It makes sense now that he does not use the monitor. Explains alot. Never knew that about him.

[MCL1021]

Worse than Brooks?

Come on, Brooksie wasn't THAT bad....:laughlol:

[LAOSfan]

Oh, I don't remember.

When Brooks was announcing, I was too young to be able to identify pitches.

Brooks was awesome but if he had a Spanish sounding last name, look out.

[Hank Scorpio]

Sarfate is kinda all over the place tonight.

No velocity on his fastball, either. It's straight, too. Hope he can dance his way through 3 or 4 innings or so.

[dslats715]

hahahahaha

i am honestly dying

[Hank Scorpio]

Brian Roberts for President.

[PaulBako]

Got him! Woo hoo!

[Rex Thunder]

What defense! Love it

[amateurfan]

Awesome relay!

[nemO821]

Wow. I thought for sure he was gonna be safe at home. Oh my God what a relay.

[SimplyZ]

DEFENSE! DEFENSE! DEFENSE!

God i love jones, kakes and roberts

[Palmer Esque]

Hell of a relay.

Fundamentals.

[Icterus galbula]

Great cutoff and relay!!!

[mrbig1]

What a great team we have.

[TyCobb]

I love our defense. Roberts with a beatiful relay.

(Hamilton is ridiculous at the plate. I think he is the best hitter in the AL)

[RShack]

Worse than Brooks?
Perhaps the worst single thing ever recorded for TV was Brooks' nation-wide Vitalis commercial, right after his MVP season. First off, the Vitalis people signed him without realizing how bald he was going. So, just seeing him comb-over in the mirror was pretty funny. Then, Brooks read his lines like he was, well, reading his lines. It was absolutely terrible.

WOW! Great out at the plate! AJ, Brob and Zaun!

1B ump came to make the call.

Perfect block by Zaun!

[Skeletor]

I thought Izzy threw that.

[MCL1021]

I always liked when he would call Albert Belle "Joey"...I never understood why until a little later on in my life that he hated being called "Joey"

I'm trying to remember other Brooks stories...I think he would forget the stories he would tell sometimes...does that sound right?

[zff4]

That play at the plate ladies and gentlemen is Oriole magic

[BringBakTheYard]

Sarfate is kinda all over the place tonight.

No velocity on his fastball, either. It's straight, too. Hope he can dance his way through 3 or 4 innings or so.

That's awful to hear. This lineup is too potent for our pitchers to be all over the place

[Hank Scorpio]

Hahahahahaha that's hilarious.

[isestrex]

Don't. Run. On. Jones

[Icterus galbula]

I love having a good defense.

[nemO821]

I thank God every time there's a play at the plate and we have Zaun and not Hernandez.

[GotNitro]

Good Grief. ESPN Gamecast is really lagging tonight.

[TyCobb]

What the hell is Sarfarte doing!!!!!!!!!!!! Pitchers don't go for those balls.

[Rex Thunder]

Was that punk ass Andrew JOnes who raised his hands in excitement when aubrey and Sarfate collided? I really don't like that guy.

[Hank Scorpio]

What a great team we have.

...excluding the pitching staff!!!!!!!

[sector7g]

Seriously, when did Sarfate start throwing this soft?

[TonySoprano]

Huff just leveled Sarfate with a forearm shiver. Both laughed it off.

[Mike B]

That was one great relay. Two perfect throws, and great position from Zaun to push Young out just enough. Great Play.

[nemO821]

Was that punk ass Andrew JOnes who raised his hands in excitement when aubrey and Sarfate collided? I really don't like that guy.

I think it was Marlon Byrd.

[RShack]

It was Zaun's job to decide who got that. Wonder what he said.

As they all got up, Zaun was laughing at them.

[SimplyZ]

Don't. Run. On. Jones

I was thinking the whole time when they were going after that ball that I hoped Jones would grab it over Pie.

Scary part is Pie is supposed to have a great arm too...Don't run on the O's outfield?

[mrbig1]

Now we take the lead. Huff,Ty, and Luke due up.

[Rex Thunder]

I love having a good defense.

Yup- defense has saved us 2 runs ALREADY this game.

I really hope the O's pull this one out now that I sticking around.

[PaulBako]

I thank God every time there's a play at the plate and we have Zaun and not Hernandez.

It's great knowing that our catcher blocks the plate and actually hustles. So glad Hernandez is gone, what a lazy catcher. And the bat didn't help either.

[SimplyZ]

Yup- defense has saved us 2 runs ALREADY this game.

I really hope the O's pull this one out now that I sticking around.

Especially with what our D was last season...I think the stats/projections won't be able to tell the whole story about runs saved by our D this season

[Mike B]

I thank God every time there's a play at the plate and we have Zaun and not Hernandez.

Ramon would have positioned himself about 18 inches up the line just so he could avoid contact. He did it for 3 years. It drove me crazy.

[Palmer Esque]

What the hell is Sarfarte doing!!!!!!!!!!!! Pitchers don't go for those balls.

I like it, more pitchers should, alot of those balls drop, if they can make a play, why not?

I know they could get hurt.

But you gotta love the hus.

[JimDH]

I always liked when he would call Albert Belle "Joey"...I never understood why until a little later on in my life that he hated being called "Joey"

I'm trying to remember other Brooks stories...I think he would forget the stories he would tell sometimes...does that sound right?

He was Joey in the minors and at least his 1st year in the majors. It's Joey on his first baseball cards. I forgot why he changed it. I dont know he hated the name, but it wouldnt surprise me

[SimplyZ]

LUUuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuK E

[Arthorn]

Luuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuke!

[dslats715]

That was a bomb

Great Scott

[Hank Scorpio]

Wigginton = not seeing the ball very well. He left a couple of hanging sliders out to dry.

Phew, Luke Scott was looking fastball.

[TyCobb]

It was Zaun's job to decide who got that. Wonder what he said.

As they all got up, Zaun was laughing at them.

Zaun's job? The catcher doesn't tell who catches popups.

[Rex Thunder]

Props top who called LUke having a homer this game! Bullyah!

[Skeletor]

Luuuuuuuuuuke!

[mrbig1]

Luuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuke

[nemO821]

Luuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuukkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

[RVAbird]

Especially with what our D was last season...I think the stats/projections won't be able to tell the whole story about runs saved by our D this season

Well, stats and projections never tell the whole story, but for what it's worth the stat-savvy sites were gushing about our defense more than ESPN or SI or anyone else. Fangraphs was leading the charge.

[amateurfan]

Who called that earlier? Way to go Luke.

[zff4]

Luke Scott, cocked and locked...and fired.

[threedaysrest]

LUUUUUUUUUUUUKE! :laughlol:

[Palmer Esque]

Luke Luke Baby, set up a fastball down the middle like a candle, hit a bomb to center and made it my handle.

Luke Luke Baby.

[Mike B]

LuuuuuuKe. Tie ballgame.

[notfast]

p.s. Luke is going to have his break out game tonight. 2 or more hits with a home run.

good start!

[LAOSfan]

He was Joey in the minors and at least his 1st year in the majors. It's Joey on his first baseball cards. I forgot why he changed it. I dont know he hated the name, but it wouldnt surprise me

He dropped it in his bid to recover from alcoholism.

[MCL1021]

He was Joey in the minors and at least his 1st year in the majors. It's Joey on his first baseball cards. I forgot why he changed it. I dont know he hated the name, but it wouldnt surprise me

Yeah, I had a 1992 baseball card of him that had Joey Belle.

I think he told the media he wanted to be called Albert. I guess Brooks didn't get the memo, I always though it was funny.

He was good though, him and Scott Garceau would always have fun in the booth when they did games on Channel 2.

[Rex Thunder]

Luuuuuuuuuuke!


Luuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuke


Luuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuukkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Did you guys coordinate that. :)

[PaulBako]

P.S. Luke is going to have his break out game tonight. 2 or more hits with a home run.

Wow you are good!

[LAOSfan]

Zaun's job? The catcher doesn't tell who catches popups.

That's not true. I did not see the play but if two players are coming in from the infield and the catcher has the play in front of him, the catcher lets everyone know whose ball it is.

[Rex Thunder]

P.S. Luke is going to have his break out game tonight. 2 or more hits with a home run.

YOu are no doubt doing your happy go lucky voodoo dance around the tv now in celebration. :)

[Palmer Esque]

Koji in cowboy boots is like Jamie Walker wearing Sperry's.

Priceless.

[nemO821]

Did you guys coordinate that. :)

Ya, we did. Stayed up late last night practicing.

[wickedwitch]

Burnett has a no-hitter in Tampa.

[notfast]

Yeah, I had a 1992 baseball card of him that had Joey Belle.

I think he told the media he wanted to be called Albert. I guess Brooks didn't get the memo, I always though it was funny.

He was good though, him and Scott Garceau would always have fun in the booth when they did games on Channel 2.

Nothing after 1990 had joey belle without having albert.

[MCL1021]

Nothing after 1990 had joey belle without having albert.

Yeah, it was one of them years...:D

[RShack]

Zaun's job? The catcher doesn't tell who catches popups.
Sure. There's a pecking order about who gets to call-off whom, but when there's 2 IF'ers going for an IF pop-up, and they're both looking up in the air at the ball, the C is supposed to take charge and boss people around so they don't kill each other. At least that's what I was taught, and I was taught the same thing over several years by several different guys...

[GotNitro]

Burnett has a no-hitter in Tampa.

Not over yet..................

[threedaysrest]

Burnett has a no-hitter in Tampa.

C'mon Rays, one of you get a hit! :cussing:

[RVAbird]

Burnett has a no-hitter in Tampa.

Wickedwitch wins thread!

[TyCobb]

That's not true. I did not see the play but if two players are coming in from the infield and the catcher has the play in front of him, the catcher lets everyone know whose ball it is.

What league does that come into effect?

Normally it just goes by the highest member calling it off.

SS has say over everyone. 2b has say over 1b. And Everyone has say over the Pitcher.

[PaulBako]

Burnett has a no-hitter in Tampa.

I See That

Haha, what inning is it?

[TyCobb]

Sure. There's a pecking order about who gets to call off whom, but when there's 2 IF'ers going for an IF pop-up, and their both looking up in the air at the ball, the C is supposed to take charge and boss people around so they don't kill each other. At least that's what I was taught, and I was taught the same thing over several years by several different guys...

I was never taught that. Always go by the pecking order.

[LA2]

Yup- defense has saved us 2 runs ALREADY this game.

Checking in late. What was the play that saved the first run? Thanks.

[Mike B]

That's not true. I did not see the play but if two players are coming in from the infield and the catcher has the play in front of him, the catcher lets everyone know whose ball it is.

True but that was that was a reaction play. They were all running full blast to get to it. It is very unusual for the pitcher to get there. Great hustle from Sarfate, got his clocked cleaned but great hustle. I think he was fired up over the relay.

[LA2]

Burnett has a no-hitter in Tampa.

What's that you're sayin'?

[RShack]

What league does that come into effect?

Normally it just goes by the highest member calling it off.

SS has say over everyone. 2b has say over 1b. And Everyone has say over the Pitcher.
That's the std pecking order... but this is a different issue... when the IF'er are all looking up at a high pop-up, you don't want them taking their eyes off the ball... it's the C's job to holler who's ball it is...

[LAOSfan]

What league does that come into effect?

Normally it just goes by the highest member calling it off.

SS has say over everyone. 2b has say over 1b. And Everyone has say over the Pitcher.

Not for a ball that is nowhere near the center of the diamond. For example, if the pop-up is somewhere out in front of the plate (assuming the pitcher does not go after it, which I never understood) and third and first are both coming in on the ball, it's the catcher's job to let one of them know whose ball it is.

The same applies on foul balls. If the pitcher and first baseman are both going after a ball in foul territory and the catcher has the play in front of him, he should call one of them off.

[notfast]

What league does that come into effect?

Normally it just goes by the highest member calling it off.

SS has say over everyone. 2b has say over 1b. And Everyone has say over the Pitcher.

Pitcher is to back off to anyone else. Simple as that.

[Rex Thunder]

Nothing after 1990 had joey belle without having albert.

Didnt see where this conversation started- but a quick funny story. My brother and his friend went to a game in Cleveland one night. After the game- Albert Belle and Kenny Lofton came into the bar they were at. They were playing pool- and Albert and Lofton were close by at the bar. My brother's friend- not the smartest guy- started calling out- "Hey Joey. hey Joey. Good game JOey."

Long story short- Albert Belle came over- took the pool stick out of my brother's friend hands and bashed him over the head with it. Made him bleed and everything. Crazy. He's pretty sensitive to say the least about that name.

[LAOSfan]

True but that was that was a reaction play. They were all running full blast to get to it. It is very unusual for the pitcher to get there. Great hustle from Sarfate, got his clocked cleaned but great hustle. I think he was fired up over the relay.

Like I said, I did not see it. I was speaking in general terms.

[nemO821]

Zaun 2 for 2 catching base stealers. We have the defense. If only we had the pitching.