Since there's nothing else to do but to wait until Wednesday (which has basically been the case for over a week now...how unusual is that?), figured we might as well set up a largely separate repository for the gnashing of the teeth and latent cries for help now and run it up to and through the game, if necessary.
Would make sense to begin with who's starting before anything else. I'll start.
We never know what crazy lineup Joe will feel like going with, and I don't care nearly as much as who the 8 guys will be.
This seems reasonable to me:
P Jake
C Miggy Monty
1B Rizz
2B Castro
SS Russel
3B Bryant
LF Austin
CF Dex
RF Schwarbs
Cole's a stud of course, but also has reverse splits. He actually does better vs. righties LEFTYS, but it doesn't matter. Coghlan's 0-8 against him anyway. My suspicion is that Maddon will hope to get an early lead and then start bolstering the defense behind Jake, so I wouldn't expect to see Schwarber and Castro beyond the 6th if the Cubs're winning, but those two absolutely should be in the starting lineup. Schwarber in RF might seem unusual until you consider that in Pittsburgh left field (left-center) is more expansive and thus more critical (and that's why I think Joe's getting Schwarber some reps in RF right now, to get a feel for RF in general).
No matter what lineup Crazy Joe rolls out there, if it's a tight game I gather everyone will get a crack. Hopefully that'd get tiring for Pittsburgh for 9 or 9+ innings because that bench suddenly seems pretty decent.
Discuss.
Quote from: PANK! on October 03, 2015, 02:36:21 PM
Since there's nothing else to do but to wait until Wednesday (which has basically been the case for over a week now...how unusual is that?), figured we might as well set up a largely separate repository for the gnashing of the teeth and latent cries for help now and run it up to and through the game, if necessary.
Would make sense to begin with who's starting before anything else. I'll start.
We never know what crazy lineup Joe will feel like going with, and I don't care nearly as much as who the 8 guys will be.
This seems reasonable to me:
P Jake
C Miggy Monty
1B Rizz
2B Castro
SS Russel
3B Bryant
LF Austin
CF Dex
RF Schwarbs
Cole's a stud of course, but also has reverse splits. He actually does better vs. righties, but it doesn't matter. Coghlan's 0-8 against him anyway. My suspicion is that Maddon will hope to get an early lead and then start bolstering the defense behind Jake, so I wouldn't expect to see Schwarber and Castro beyond the 6th if the Cubs're winning, but those two absolutely should be in the starting lineup. Schwarber in RF might seem unusual until you consider that in Pittsburgh left field (left-center) is more expansive and thus more critical (and that's why I think Joe's getting Schwarber some reps in RF right now, to get a feel for RF in general).
No matter what lineup Crazy Joe rolls out there, if it's a tight game I gather everyone will get a crack. Hopefully that'd get tiring for Pittsburgh for 9 or 9+ innings because that bench suddenly seems pretty decent.
Discuss.
A right-hander better against righties is not a reverse split.
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 03, 2015, 03:06:25 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 03, 2015, 02:36:21 PM
Since there's nothing else to do but to wait until Wednesday (which has basically been the case for over a week now...how unusual is that?), figured we might as well set up a largely separate repository for the gnashing of the teeth and latent cries for help now and run it up to and through the game, if necessary.
Would make sense to begin with who's starting before anything else. I'll start.
We never know what crazy lineup Joe will feel like going with, and I don't care nearly as much as who the 8 guys will be.
This seems reasonable to me:
P Jake
C Miggy Monty
1B Rizz
2B Castro
SS Russel
3B Bryant
LF Austin
CF Dex
RF Schwarbs
Cole's a stud of course, but also has reverse splits. He actually does better vs. righties, but it doesn't matter. Coghlan's 0-8 against him anyway. My suspicion is that Maddon will hope to get an early lead and then start bolstering the defense behind Jake, so I wouldn't expect to see Schwarber and Castro beyond the 6th if the Cubs're winning, but those two absolutely should be in the starting lineup. Schwarber in RF might seem unusual until you consider that in Pittsburgh left field (left-center) is more expansive and thus more critical (and that's why I think Joe's getting Schwarber some reps in RF right now, to get a feel for RF in general).
No matter what lineup Crazy Joe rolls out there, if it's a tight game I gather everyone will get a crack. Hopefully that'd get tiring for Pittsburgh for 9 or 9+ innings because that bench suddenly seems pretty decent.
Discuss.
A right-hander better against righties is not a reverse split.
What's the matter--you don't know how to read PANKLISH?
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Counterpoint: Does outfield defense matter if the Pirates can't hit the ball out of the infield against Arrieta?
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 09:54:52 AM
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Counterpoint: Does outfield defense matter if the Pirates can't hit the ball out of the infield against Arrieta?
This. It's sort of the same teeth gnashing Pirates fans are engaged in about playing Pedro Alvarez, because of his defense. With Cole on the mound, who cares? Most outs are going to be K's or in the air. Few opportunities for mistakes in the field = prioritization of offense.
Quote from: CubFaninHydePark on October 05, 2015, 10:00:28 AM
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 09:54:52 AM
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Counterpoint: Does outfield defense matter if the Pirates can't hit the ball out of the infield against Arrieta?
This. It's sort of the same teeth gnashing Pirates fans are engaged in about playing Pedro Alvarez, because of his defense. With Cole on the mound, who cares? Most outs are going to be K's or in the air. Few opportunities for mistakes in the field = prioritization of offense.
nobody cares
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 10:01:27 AM
Quote from: CubFaninHydePark on October 05, 2015, 10:00:28 AM
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 09:54:52 AM
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Counterpoint: Does outfield defense matter if the Pirates can't hit the ball out of the infield against Arrieta?
This. It's sort of the same teeth gnashing Pirates fans are engaged in about playing Pedro Alvarez, because of his defense. With Cole on the mound, who cares? Most outs are going to be K's or in the air. Few opportunities for mistakes in the field = prioritization of offense.
nobody cares
The opinion of Pissburgh sports fans is so low on my radar now, or really ever.
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Wouldn't Austin in RF and Bryant in LF be better? What am I missing?
It's only Monday morning and I'm already spazzing out with impatience.
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 10:23:41 AM
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Wouldn't Austin in RF and Bryant in LF be better? What am I missing?
Pittsburgh's right field is small, their left field is massive, so the usual "weaker defender in LF" rules do not apply there.
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 10:32:57 AM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 10:23:41 AM
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Wouldn't Austin in RF and Bryant in LF be better? What am I missing?
Pittsburgh's right field is small, their left field is massive, so the usual "weaker defender in LF" rules do not apply there.
Also: PAY THE FUCK ATTENTION.
Quote from: PANK! on October 03, 2015, 02:36:21 PMSchwarber in RF might seem unusual until you consider that in Pittsburgh left field (left-center) is more expansive and thus more critical (and that's why I think Joe's getting Schwarber some reps in RF right now, to get a feel for RF in general).
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
This seems like an odd thing to have such a strong opinion about.
But then again...Huey.
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
...so, playoff bush?
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 10:01:27 AM
Quote from: CubFaninHydePark on October 05, 2015, 10:00:28 AM
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 09:54:52 AM
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Counterpoint: Does outfield defense matter if the Pirates can't hit the ball out of the infield against Arrieta?
This. It's sort of the same teeth gnashing Pirates fans are engaged in about playing Pedro Alvarez, because of his defense. With Cole on the mound, who cares? Most outs are going to be K's or in the air. Few opportunities for mistakes in the field = prioritization of offense.
nobody cares
I tried telling them that on Facebook (CFiHP's friends) and got shot down with the usual Cubs tripe. from a bunch of fans who didn't even know what a playoff was up until two years ago. It was kind of fun.
Quote from: Oleg on October 05, 2015, 11:54:36 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 10:01:27 AM
Quote from: CubFaninHydePark on October 05, 2015, 10:00:28 AM
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 09:54:52 AM
Quote from: R-V on October 05, 2015, 09:53:31 AM
Agreed that Austin in LF is a good idea - partially because I'm having nightmares about Schwarber or Coghlan making a huge mistake in the outfield that becomes the difference in a low scoring game.
I could also see Joe going with Bryant in RF and Baez at 3B if he decides to go all in with his best Bryant-inclusive defensive alignment.
Counterpoint: Does outfield defense matter if the Pirates can't hit the ball out of the infield against Arrieta?
This. It's sort of the same teeth gnashing Pirates fans are engaged in about playing Pedro Alvarez, because of his defense. With Cole on the mound, who cares? Most outs are going to be K's or in the air. Few opportunities for mistakes in the field = prioritization of offense.
nobody cares
I tried telling them that on Facebook (CFiHP's friends) and got shot down with the usual Cubs tripe. from a bunch of fans who didn't even know what a playoff was up until two years ago. It was kind of fun.
I'm not one for smack talking because I can dish it out but I cannot take it. I will quietly bide my time until Jake has destroyed them on Wednesday and then I shall be an unrelenting dick to them all. This is what a man does. Learn from it.
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
Hear, hear. Shave your goddamn face. This Cubs team should have zero tolerance for superstitious bullshit.
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up he got good; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
(http://i57.tinypic.com/2d1r40m.jpg)
Quote from: Brownie on October 05, 2015, 11:59:30 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
Hear, hear. Shave your goddamn face. This Cubs team should have zero tolerance for superstitious bullshit.
I'm not superstitious at all. But I like the little things that fans can do to demonstrate that they are somehow a part of this.
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
SCENE:
A young boy in Elk Grove sitting in front of his 19" Kenmore TV wearing his plastic Cubs batting helmet turns to his father:
BOY: Dad, it's pretty neat how the Cubs are all growing beards and calling themselves the "Grubby Cubbies"
FATHER: Take it somewhere else of that's how younger about it
BOY: Geez, dad...I never thought of it that way...
/SCENE
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:19:44 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
SCENE:
A young boy in Elk Grove sitting in front of his 19" Kenmore Zenith TV wearing his plastic Cubs batting helmet turns to his father:
BOY: Dad, it's pretty neat how the Cubs are all growing beards and calling themselves the "Grubby Cubbies"
FATHER: Take it somewhere else of that's how younger about it
BOY: Geez, dad...I never thought of it that way...
/SCENE
The Quality Goes In Before The Name Goes On'd.
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Back to the thing:
Javy at third and Bryant in left sounds pretty good except Javy vs. Cole seems like an automatic sombrero, no?
Quote from: Slaky on October 05, 2015, 12:28:38 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Back to the thing:
Javy at third and Bryant in left sounds pretty good except Javy vs. Cole seems like an automatic sombrero, no?
Does it, now? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIqCd9z0OZs)
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 12:31:09 PM
Quote from: Slaky on October 05, 2015, 12:28:38 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Back to the thing:
Javy at third and Bryant in left sounds pretty good except Javy vs. Cole seems like an automatic sombrero, no?
Does it, now? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIqCd9z0OZs)
In fact I believe I read somewhere that that video right there is the only home run off Cole any current Cub has ever hit.
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 05, 2015, 01:27:40 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 12:31:09 PM
Quote from: Slaky on October 05, 2015, 12:28:38 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Back to the thing:
Javy at third and Bryant in left sounds pretty good except Javy vs. Cole seems like an automatic sombrero, no?
Does it, now? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIqCd9z0OZs)
In fact I believe I read somewhere that that video right there is the only home run off Cole any current Cub has ever hit.
I don't know if this is tongue-in-cheek or what, but Cole has allowed 2 homers to the Cubs in 226 career PAs.
The other was to Alcantara in that same game.
We have like 50+ hours until the game still, so, random spitballing:
Is it worth it to consider starting Jackson instead of Fowler in CF? Cole has those reverse splits which becomes a double problem since Fowler is worse as a lefty (Jackson basically has no platoon split over the course of his career). Plus, Jackson has been hitting really well lately while Fowler has been cold for the better part of the last month.
Fielding metrics also give Jackson an edge defensively over Fowler in center.
This would also theoretically open a spot in the lineup for Soler, who's one of the best fastball hitters on the Cubs. Cole's best pitch (http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=13125&position=P#pitchtype), by far, is his fastball. Seems like a good matchup for him.
I'm sure Fowler will be at the top of the lineup and this is all LaRussa-level overthinking but this is a long two days.
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 02:53:46 PM
We have like 50+ hours until the game still, so, random spitballing:
Is it worth it to consider starting Jackson instead of Fowler in CF? Cole has those reverse splits which becomes a double problem since Fowler is worse as a lefty (Jackson basically has no platoon split over the course of his career). Plus, Jackson has been hitting really well lately while Fowler has been cold for the better part of the last month.
Fielding metrics also give Jackson an edge defensively over Fowler in center.
This would also theoretically open a spot in the lineup for Soler, who's one of the best fastball hitters on the Cubs. Cole's best pitch (http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=13125&position=P#pitchtype), by far, is his fastball. Seems like a good matchup for him.
I'm sure Fowler will be at the top of the lineup and this is all LaRussa-level overthinking but this is a long two days.
He gave Jackson a lot of playing time lately. I wonder if that thought entered his mind as well.
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 03:08:17 PM
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 02:53:46 PM
We have like 50+ hours until the game still, so, random spitballing:
Is it worth it to consider starting Jackson instead of Fowler in CF? Cole has those reverse splits which becomes a double problem since Fowler is worse as a lefty (Jackson basically has no platoon split over the course of his career). Plus, Jackson has been hitting really well lately while Fowler has been cold for the better part of the last month.
Fielding metrics also give Jackson an edge defensively over Fowler in center.
This would also theoretically open a spot in the lineup for Soler, who's one of the best fastball hitters on the Cubs. Cole's best pitch (http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=13125&position=P#pitchtype), by far, is his fastball. Seems like a good matchup for him.
I'm sure Fowler will be at the top of the lineup and this is all LaRussa-level overthinking but this is a long two days.
He gave Jackson a lot of playing time lately. I wonder if that thought entered his mind as well.
Geez, imagine if Dexter had to sit out after leading that lineup all season and the Cubs lost. Aside from the second-guessing that Maddon would receive, I think it'd be enough butthurt for Dexter to ensure he wouldn't come back.
If, on the other hand, Jackson tears it up and they win, the Cubs may have already found his replacement for next year.
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 03:14:31 PM
If, on the other hand, Jackson tears it up and they win, the Cubs may have already found his replacement for next year.
Can someone give me the Cliff's Notes version on what the hell happened to Austin Jackson? He was a key part of the Granderson trade (along with Scherzer) and had OPS's of .856 and .754 after his rancid sophomore season. He was OPS-ing .730 with a below-average slugging when he was shuffled off to Seattle in the Price trade. He has sucked with Seattle, and the Cubs got him for nothing. He's only 28, can play solid outfield and has some speed. Is he salvageable?
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 03:14:31 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 03:08:17 PM
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 02:53:46 PM
We have like 50+ hours until the game still, so, random spitballing:
Is it worth it to consider starting Jackson instead of Fowler in CF? Cole has those reverse splits which becomes a double problem since Fowler is worse as a lefty (Jackson basically has no platoon split over the course of his career). Plus, Jackson has been hitting really well lately while Fowler has been cold for the better part of the last month.
Fielding metrics also give Jackson an edge defensively over Fowler in center.
This would also theoretically open a spot in the lineup for Soler, who's one of the best fastball hitters on the Cubs. Cole's best pitch (http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=13125&position=P#pitchtype), by far, is his fastball. Seems like a good matchup for him.
I'm sure Fowler will be at the top of the lineup and this is all LaRussa-level overthinking but this is a long two days.
He gave Jackson a lot of playing time lately. I wonder if that thought entered his mind as well.
Geez, imagine if Dexter had to sit out after leading that lineup all season and the Cubs lost. Aside from the second-guessing that Maddon would receive, I think it'd be enough butthurt for Dexter to ensure he wouldn't come back.
If, on the other hand, Jackson tears it up and they win, the Cubs may have already found his replacement for next year.
That. Also, Fowler & Jackson have an identical OPS of .675 over the last 30 days. And Jackson's wOBA against righties this year is .288 versus Fowler's .320. I don't know how significant Cole's reverse split is but it would have to be huge for me to get on board with this.
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 03:14:31 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 03:08:17 PM
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 02:53:46 PM
We have like 50+ hours until the game still, so, random spitballing:
Is it worth it to consider starting Jackson instead of Fowler in CF? Cole has those reverse splits which becomes a double problem since Fowler is worse as a lefty (Jackson basically has no platoon split over the course of his career). Plus, Jackson has been hitting really well lately while Fowler has been cold for the better part of the last month.
Fielding metrics also give Jackson an edge defensively over Fowler in center.
This would also theoretically open a spot in the lineup for Soler, who's one of the best fastball hitters on the Cubs. Cole's best pitch (http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=13125&position=P#pitchtype), by far, is his fastball. Seems like a good matchup for him.
I'm sure Fowler will be at the top of the lineup and this is all LaRussa-level overthinking but this is a long two days.
He gave Jackson a lot of playing time lately. I wonder if that thought entered his mind as well.
Geez, imagine if Dexter had to sit out after leading that lineup all season and the Cubs lost. Aside from the second-guessing that Maddon would receive, I think it'd be enough butthurt for Dexter to ensure he wouldn't come back.
That's the nice thing about Maddon, though. If he truly felt like Jackson gave them the best chance to win that game (which is debatable), that's who would start.
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 03:22:39 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 03:14:31 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 03:08:17 PM
Quote from: Eli on October 05, 2015, 02:53:46 PM
We have like 50+ hours until the game still, so, random spitballing:
Is it worth it to consider starting Jackson instead of Fowler in CF? Cole has those reverse splits which becomes a double problem since Fowler is worse as a lefty (Jackson basically has no platoon split over the course of his career). Plus, Jackson has been hitting really well lately while Fowler has been cold for the better part of the last month.
Fielding metrics also give Jackson an edge defensively over Fowler in center.
This would also theoretically open a spot in the lineup for Soler, who's one of the best fastball hitters on the Cubs. Cole's best pitch (http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=13125&position=P#pitchtype), by far, is his fastball. Seems like a good matchup for him.
I'm sure Fowler will be at the top of the lineup and this is all LaRussa-level overthinking but this is a long two days.
He gave Jackson a lot of playing time lately. I wonder if that thought entered his mind as well.
Geez, imagine if Dexter had to sit out after leading that lineup all season and the Cubs lost. Aside from the second-guessing that Maddon would receive, I think it'd be enough butthurt for Dexter to ensure he wouldn't come back.
That's the nice thing about Maddon, though. If he truly felt like Jackson gave them the best chance to win that game (which is debatable), that's who would start.
I also think we'll see a lot of substitutions in this game if needed. Who knows who all will end up playing.
Quote from: Brownie on October 05, 2015, 03:22:01 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 03:14:31 PM
If, on the other hand, Jackson tears it up and they win, the Cubs may have already found his replacement for next year.
Can someone give me the Cliff's Notes version on what the hell happened to Austin Jackson? He was a key part of the Granderson trade (along with Scherzer) and had OPS's of .856 and .754 after his rancid sophomore season. He was OPS-ing .730 with a below-average slugging when he was shuffled off to Seattle in the Price trade. He has sucked with Seattle, and the Cubs got him for nothing. He's only 28, can play solid outfield and has some speed. Is he salvageable?
His peripherals showed some bad luck in Seattle and the talent is still definitely there. If Fowler walks and they don't want to pony up for Heyward, he'd be a nice fallback option.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 05, 2015, 01:29:53 PM
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 05, 2015, 01:27:40 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 12:31:09 PM
Quote from: Slaky on October 05, 2015, 12:28:38 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Back to the thing:
Javy at third and Bryant in left sounds pretty good except Javy vs. Cole seems like an automatic sombrero, no?
Does it, now? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIqCd9z0OZs)
In fact I believe I read somewhere that that video right there is the only home run off Cole any current Cub has ever hit.
I don't know if this is tongue-in-cheek or what, but Cole has allowed 2 homers to the Cubs in 226 career PAs.
The other was to Alcantara in that same game.
So how do you define "current," because I use the definition in the dictionary that requires a current Cub to be a current Cub rather than "not a current Cub" which is apparently the definition you prefer.
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 05, 2015, 03:54:00 PM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 05, 2015, 01:29:53 PM
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 05, 2015, 01:27:40 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 12:31:09 PM
Quote from: Slaky on October 05, 2015, 12:28:38 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Back to the thing:
Javy at third and Bryant in left sounds pretty good except Javy vs. Cole seems like an automatic sombrero, no?
Does it, now? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIqCd9z0OZs)
In fact I believe I read somewhere that that video right there is the only home run off Cole any current Cub has ever hit.
I don't know if this is tongue-in-cheek or what, but Cole has allowed 2 homers to the Cubs in 226 career PAs.
The other was to Alcantara in that same game.
So how do you define "current," because I use the definition in the dictionary that requires a current Cub to be a current Cub rather than not a current Cub which is apparently the definition you prefer.
I thought about pointing out this PenIs Wrong, but I figured it was best to let you rebut.
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 03:55:25 PM
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 05, 2015, 03:54:00 PM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 05, 2015, 01:29:53 PM
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 05, 2015, 01:27:40 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 12:31:09 PM
Quote from: Slaky on October 05, 2015, 12:28:38 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Back to the thing:
Javy at third and Bryant in left sounds pretty good except Javy vs. Cole seems like an automatic sombrero, no?
Does it, now? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIqCd9z0OZs)
In fact I believe I read somewhere that that video right there is the only home run off Cole any current Cub has ever hit.
I don't know if this is tongue-in-cheek or what, but Cole has allowed 2 homers to the Cubs in 226 career PAs.
The other was to Alcantara in that same game.
So how do you define "current," because I use the definition in the dictionary that requires a current Cub to be a current Cub rather than not a current Cub which is apparently the definition you prefer.
I thought about pointing out this PenIs Wrong, but I figured it was best to let you rebut.
Current was a word I missed.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 05, 2015, 03:57:28 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 03:55:25 PM
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 05, 2015, 03:54:00 PM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 05, 2015, 01:29:53 PM
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 05, 2015, 01:27:40 PM
Quote from: SKO on October 05, 2015, 12:31:09 PM
Quote from: Slaky on October 05, 2015, 12:28:38 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 12:22:57 PM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:14:39 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 05, 2015, 11:54:27 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
I don't see the Latin or black guys getting on board with that, honestly. Hockey's for whites who grow beards over coffee.
(http://img.src.ca/2015/07/15/635x357/PC_150715_p54mp_johnny_oduya_sn635.jpg)
The exception doesn't something something.
Back to the thing:
Javy at third and Bryant in left sounds pretty good except Javy vs. Cole seems like an automatic sombrero, no?
Does it, now? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIqCd9z0OZs)
In fact I believe I read somewhere that that video right there is the only home run off Cole any current Cub has ever hit.
I don't know if this is tongue-in-cheek or what, but Cole has allowed 2 homers to the Cubs in 226 career PAs.
The other was to Alcantara in that same game.
So how do you define "current," because I use the definition in the dictionary that requires a current Cub to be a current Cub rather than not a current Cub which is apparently the definition you prefer.
I thought about pointing out this PenIs Wrong, but I figured it was best to let you rebut.
Current was a word I missed.
PAY THE FUCK ATTENTION. Anyway, go Cubs. The SeligFlip Game is stupid but if they win I bet I won't be complaining about it.
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 12:19:44 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:46:29 AM
Quote from: Median Desipio Chucklehead on October 05, 2015, 11:42:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 05, 2015, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 05, 2015, 11:20:08 AM
So, are baseball playoff beards a thing?
God I hope not.
Jake Arrieta sneers at you.
Arrieta's been rocking a beard since he came up; that's different. Just this emulating hockey players shit is dumb. Sorry if that make me a buzzkill for Happy Happy Pen Joy. In fact, I think the idea of hockey playoff beards (a practice which is less than 4 decades old and not always practiced (i.e. Edmonton w/Gretzky)) is overplayed but it's definitely stupid for baseball. Be original, assholes.
SCENE:
A young boy in Elk Grove sitting in front of his 19" Kenmore TV wearing his plastic Cubs batting helmet turns to his father:
BOY: Dad, it's pretty neat how the Cubs are all growing beards and calling themselves the "Grubby Cubbies"
FATHER: Take it somewhere else of that's how younger about it
BOY: Geez, dad...I never thought of it that way...
/SCENE
Panklish?
The Man Behind the Sunglasses has apparently already thrown his first curveball. (https://twitter.com/schorpp1955/status/651383651863662593)
Quote from: Some Dude on TwitterLen Kasper on @670TheScore reports that Tommy LaStella will start at third Wednesday night. Hmmm.
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:14:26 AM
The Man Behind the Sunglasses has apparently already thrown his first curveball. (https://twitter.com/schorpp1955/status/651383651863662593)
Quote from: Some Dude on TwitterLen Kasper on @670TheScore reports that Tommy LaStella will start at third Wednesday night. Hmmm.
I'm guessing
Fowler CF
Schwarber RF
Bryant LF
Rizzo 1B
Castro 2B
Montero C
Russell SS
Arrieta P
La Stella 3B
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
Yeah, actually on that point I wouldn't be surprised maybe to see Castro and La Stella batting 5th/6th. Your two guys least likely to strike out against Cole hopefully can drive in a run if Rizzo or Bryant can get an extra base hit.
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:35:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
Yeah, actually on that point I wouldn't be surprised maybe to see Castro and La Stella batting 5th/6th. Your two guys least likely to strike out against Cole hopefully can drive in a run if Rizzo or Bryant can get an extra base hit.
I think you had it right. That was their lineup on Friday (http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/MIL/MIL201510020.shtml) in Arrieta's last start, which I bet isn't a coincidence.
If they can grab a lead at any point, I think Baez comes in for Castro and Jackson comes in for Schwarber, even as early as the 4th or 5th inning.
Quote from: Eli on October 06, 2015, 09:09:53 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:35:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
Yeah, actually on that point I wouldn't be surprised maybe to see Castro and La Stella batting 5th/6th. Your two guys least likely to strike out against Cole hopefully can drive in a run if Rizzo or Bryant can get an extra base hit.
I think you had it right. That was their lineup on Friday (http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/MIL/MIL201510020.shtml) in Arrieta's last start, which I bet isn't a coincidence.
If they can grab a lead at any point, I think Baez comes in for Castro and Jackson comes in for Schwarber, even as early as the 4th or 5th inning.
And Coghlan can sit there fuming.
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 09:17:54 AM
Quote from: Eli on October 06, 2015, 09:09:53 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:35:52 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
Yeah, actually on that point I wouldn't be surprised maybe to see Castro and La Stella batting 5th/6th. Your two guys least likely to strike out against Cole hopefully can drive in a run if Rizzo or Bryant can get an extra base hit.
I think you had it right. That was their lineup on Friday (http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/MIL/MIL201510020.shtml) in Arrieta's last start, which I bet isn't a coincidence.
If they can grab a lead at any point, I think Baez comes in for Castro and Jackson comes in for Schwarber, even as early as the 4th or 5th inning.
And Coghlan can sit there fuming.
Oh how I just El Oh Elle'd.
How in the fuck is it not Wednesday yet?
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 09:30:37 AM
How in the fuck is it not Wednesday yet?
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7e/Rotating_earth.gif)
The way things have been breaking for Maddon lately, I expect LaStella to get 3 extra base hits.
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Quote from: Chuck to Chuck on October 06, 2015, 09:42:41 AM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 09:30:37 AM
How in the fuck is it not Wednesday yet?
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7e/Rotating_earth.gif)
It's spinning backwards. Wednesday is never going to come.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
Quote from: Canadouche on October 06, 2015, 10:38:23 AM
It's spinning backwards. Wednesday is never going to come.
(http://static.comicvine.com/uploads/original/13/136540/4569176-9234393220-earth.gif)
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:50:49 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Actually I believe it's been 8 years, because I thought the GDP that caused Huey's PANKrage was DeRosa hitting into a double play on a 3-1 count with the bags loaded and one out against Livan Hernandez in game 3 in 2007. http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CHN/CHN200710060.shtml.
In Huey's defense, that was the single biggest play of that game in terms of WPA. In not-Huey's defense, they were already down 2 games to nothing and were trailing 3-1 and DeRosa hit .333 in that series and was also 2-4 in that game alone.
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:20:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:14:26 AM
The Man Behind the Sunglasses has apparently already thrown his first curveball. (https://twitter.com/schorpp1955/status/651383651863662593)
Quote from: Some Dude on TwitterLen Kasper on @670TheScore reports that Tommy LaStella will start at third Wednesday night. Hmmm.
I'm guessing
Fowler CF
Schwarber RF
Bryant LF
Rizzo 1B
Castro 2B
Montero C
Russell SS
Arrieta P
La Stella 3B
Tommy La Stella to start at third base, Castro at second base, Kris Bryant to outfield (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/ct-tommy-la-stella-starting-20151006-story.html)
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:50:49 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Good point. The cornucopia of playoff success that followed that wretched failure should've washed all of the bad taste out of my mouth by now!
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:28:20 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:50:49 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Good point. The cornucopia of playoff success that followed that wretched failure should've washed all of the bad taste out of my mouth by now!
I don't know if there's a corollary to Victim Mentality called Scapegoat Mentality, but as the one person who still kind of thinks Bartman was in the wrong and tends to put the massive weight of the playoff losses from the last run on DeRosa and Dempster, you definitely have
some condition.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 11:32:50 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:28:20 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:50:49 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Good point. The cornucopia of playoff success that followed that wretched failure should've washed all of the bad taste out of my mouth by now!
I don't know if there's a corollary to Victim Mentality called Scapegoat Mentality, but as the one person who still kind of thinks Bartman was in the wrong and tends to put the massive weight of the playoff losses from the last run on DeRosa and Dempster, you definitely have some condition.
Intrepid reader: Kenny RogersHi! I'm Kenny Rogers. I just dropped in to see what condition Huey's condition is in.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 11:32:50 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:28:20 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:50:49 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Good point. The cornucopia of playoff success that followed that wretched failure should've washed all of the bad taste out of my mouth by now!
I don't know if there's a corollary to Victim Mentality called Scapegoat Mentality, but as the one person who still kind of thinks Bartman was in the wrong and tends to put the massive weight of the playoff losses from the last run on DeRosa and Dempster, you definitely have some condition.
You're really spraying to all fields today, I'm beginning to think you're the one with the issue.
I pick on DeRosa. It's what I do. I know you've been gone but are you actually NEW?
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:41:14 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 11:32:50 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:28:20 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:50:49 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Good point. The cornucopia of playoff success that followed that wretched failure should've washed all of the bad taste out of my mouth by now!
I don't know if there's a corollary to Victim Mentality called Scapegoat Mentality, but as the one person who still kind of thinks Bartman was in the wrong and tends to put the massive weight of the playoff losses from the last run on DeRosa and Dempster, you definitely have some condition.
You're really spraying to all fields today, I'm beginning to think you're the one with the issue.
I pick on DeRosa. It's what I do. I know you've been gone but are you actually NEW?
I don't think it's unreasonable to call you insane for it once every 6 months or so.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 11:52:09 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:41:14 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 11:32:50 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:28:20 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:50:49 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Good point. The cornucopia of playoff success that followed that wretched failure should've washed all of the bad taste out of my mouth by now!
I don't know if there's a corollary to Victim Mentality called Scapegoat Mentality, but as the one person who still kind of thinks Bartman was in the wrong and tends to put the massive weight of the playoff losses from the last run on DeRosa and Dempster, you definitely have some condition.
You're really spraying to all fields today, I'm beginning to think you're the one with the issue.
I pick on DeRosa. It's what I do. I know you've been gone but are you actually NEW?
I don't think it's unreasonable to call you insane for it once every 6 months or so.
Fair, but then just call me a fucking whackjob then. I think you can spare everyone your long-distance analysis of victim mentalities and such, nobody cares what your thoughts are on exactly
how I became any crazier than the rest of you and doing so only seems like you're taking this more seriously than maybe you should.
And fuck Mark DeRosa forever and always.
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:58:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 11:52:09 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:41:14 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 11:32:50 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 11:28:20 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:50:49 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 10:42:11 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 10:33:28 AM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 08:26:04 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 08:21:14 AM
DPD but for what it's worth La Stella did have that big double off of Cole the last time they faced him in Pittsburgh.
Just spitballin', but I wonder if La Stella being pretty good at putting the ball in play was factor...he could always DeRosa into a back-breaking 6-4-3 but I don't hate the move based on that nebulousness. Meanwhile, the infield defense should be improved.
You seriously have problems.
Did I offend Pen's Inner Bro one too many times?
I give zero shits about DeRosa, but it's been SEVEN years.
And, oh by the way, the Cubs made four errors that game and lost 10-3.
And nevermind that DeRosa went 12-34 in the postseason from '07-'09 with about a .900 OPS.
Good point. The cornucopia of playoff success that followed that wretched failure should've washed all of the bad taste out of my mouth by now!
I don't know if there's a corollary to Victim Mentality called Scapegoat Mentality, but as the one person who still kind of thinks Bartman was in the wrong and tends to put the massive weight of the playoff losses from the last run on DeRosa and Dempster, you definitely have some condition.
You're really spraying to all fields today, I'm beginning to think you're the one with the issue.
I pick on DeRosa. It's what I do. I know you've been gone but are you actually NEW?
I don't think it's unreasonable to call you insane for it once every 6 months or so.
Fair, but then just call me a fucking whackjob then. I think you can spare everyone your long-distance analysis of victim mentalities and such, nobody cares what your thoughts are on exactly how I became any crazier than the rest of you and doing so only seems like you're taking this more seriously than maybe you should.
And fuck Mark DeRosa forever and always.
My mom's a shrink, it comes with the territory.
*Sets up Huey for a solid mom joke.*
Oh good, a new installment of "The Cubs Screwed Themselves by Keeping Kris Bryant Down for Those 8 Games." (http://regressing.deadspin.com/the-cubs-might-have-screwed-themselves-by-screwing-kris-1734960379?utm_campaign=socialflow_deadspin_facebook&utm_source=deadspin_facebook&utm_medium=socialflow)
Steaming hot garbage.
Que sera, sera / Whatever will be, will be / The future's not ours to see / Que sera, sera
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 01:13:33 PM
Oh good, a new installment of "The Cubs Screwed Themselves by Keeping Kris Bryant Down for Those 8 Games." (http://regressing.deadspin.com/the-cubs-might-have-screwed-themselves-by-screwing-kris-1734960379?utm_campaign=socialflow_deadspin_facebook&utm_source=deadspin_facebook&utm_medium=socialflow)
Steaming hot garbage.
Did they screw (or negatively impact) themselves, at least in some measurable way,
this season? Maybe. It's debatable. After that scorching hot spring training maybe he blasts ten homers in the time he missed, and they could have caught the Cardinals. Sure, it's no more likely than the chance he would've been MLB Debut Vs James Shields Bad that entire time, but it's possible. But did they screw themselves seven years of team control into the future? Hell. No.
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 06, 2015, 01:22:56 PM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 01:13:33 PM
Oh good, a new installment of "The Cubs Screwed Themselves by Keeping Kris Bryant Down for Those 8 Games." (http://regressing.deadspin.com/the-cubs-might-have-screwed-themselves-by-screwing-kris-1734960379?utm_campaign=socialflow_deadspin_facebook&utm_source=deadspin_facebook&utm_medium=socialflow)
Steaming hot garbage.
Did they screw (or negatively impact) themselves, at least in some measurable way, this season? Maybe. It's debatable. After that scorching hot spring training maybe he blasts ten homers in the time he missed, and they could have caught the Cardinals. Sure, it's no more likely than the chance he would've been MLB Debut Vs James Shields Bad that entire time, but it's possible. But did they screw themselves seven years of team control into the future? Hell. No.
They lost 3 games without him. One was 5-1, and I love Kris but saying he was worth 4+ runs is a stretch. One was 3-0 on opening day, and, again, I doubt he's worth 3-4 runs vs Adam Wainright. They lost one game 3-2, so maybe he could have influenced that one.
So I'll generously say there's a 50% chance that keeping Bryant in the minors for 8 games possibly cost them one ballgame and therefore homefield advantage in the play in game. I don't really think that matters all that much, to be honest. The Cubs went 6-4 against Pittsburgh at PNC and 5-4 vs them at Wrigley. Jake's only loss to the Pirates came at Wrigley as well.
This is the dumbest fucking argument of all time and I hope it dies and burns in the hell of bad takes.
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 01:31:17 PM
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 06, 2015, 01:22:56 PM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 06, 2015, 01:13:33 PM
Oh good, a new installment of "The Cubs Screwed Themselves by Keeping Kris Bryant Down for Those 8 Games." (http://regressing.deadspin.com/the-cubs-might-have-screwed-themselves-by-screwing-kris-1734960379?utm_campaign=socialflow_deadspin_facebook&utm_source=deadspin_facebook&utm_medium=socialflow)
Steaming hot garbage.
Did they screw (or negatively impact) themselves, at least in some measurable way, this season? Maybe. It's debatable. After that scorching hot spring training maybe he blasts ten homers in the time he missed, and they could have caught the Cardinals. Sure, it's no more likely than the chance he would've been MLB Debut Vs James Shields Bad that entire time, but it's possible. But did they screw themselves seven years of team control into the future? Hell. No.
They lost 3 games without him. One was 5-1, and I love Kris but saying he was worth 4+ runs is a stretch. One was 3-0 on opening day, and, again, I doubt he's worth 3-4 runs vs Adam Wainright. They lost one game 3-2, so maybe he could have influenced that one.
So I'll generously say there's a 50% chance that keeping Bryant in the minors for 8 games possibly cost them one ballgame and therefore homefield advantage in the play in game. I don't really think that matters all that much, to be honest. The Cubs went 6-4 against Pittsburgh at PNC and 5-4 vs them at Wrigley. Jake's only loss to the Pirates came at Wrigley as well.
This is the dumbest fucking argument of all time and I hope it dies and burns in the hell of bad takes.
Besides, the Cubs are equally strong on the road as they are at home. Home games would be great in the playoffs, but it's not a stretch to argue that they aren't particularly negatively effected by all the games on the road, as much as the term "road-field advantage" annoys me.
I don't think it's too much of a stretch to suggest that the 2003 game 6 prolapse was at least in part due to the palpable sense of panic that washed over the crowd at Wrigley. On the other hand, Cueto. So, you know... home field advantage is really neither here nor there.
Quote from: Tonker on October 06, 2015, 01:45:48 PM
I don't think it's too much of a stretch to suggest that the 2003 game 6 prolapse was at least in part due to the palpable sense of panic that washed over the crowd at Wrigley. On the other hand, Cueto. So, you know... home field advantage is really neither here nor there.
This. If you subscribe to the power of the crowd, that can cut both ways. Pittsburgh already feels like the team with the most to lose here, given that this is their third crack at it and INSERT FORK LIKE STATEMENT REGARDING CUBS FUTURE, and they're up against the wall with Jake. If the Cubs take an early lead and DOOM starts to set in, that crowd could easily work against the Pirates as much as it does the Cubs.
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 01:54:32 PM
Quote from: Tonker on October 06, 2015, 01:45:48 PM
I don't think it's too much of a stretch to suggest that the 2003 game 6 prolapse was at least in part due to the palpable sense of panic that washed over the crowd at Wrigley. On the other hand, Cueto. So, you know... home field advantage is really neither here nor there.
This. If you subscribe to the power of the crowd, that can cut both ways. Pittsburgh already feels like the team with the most to lose here, given that this is their third crack at it and INSERT FORK LIKE STATEMENT REGARDING CUBS FUTURE, and they're up against the wall with Jake. If the Cubs take an early lead and DOOM starts to set in, that crowd could easily work against the Pirates as much as it does the Cubs.
At least they can all go get some Primanti Bros. though.
There's one right in PNC.
Quote from: SKO on October 06, 2015, 01:54:32 PM
Quote from: Tonker on October 06, 2015, 01:45:48 PM
I don't think it's too much of a stretch to suggest that the 2003 game 6 prolapse was at least in part due to the palpable sense of panic that washed over the crowd at Wrigley. On the other hand, Cueto. So, you know... home field advantage is really neither here nor there.
This. If you subscribe to the power of the crowd, that can cut both ways. Pittsburgh already feels like the team with the most to lose here, given that this is their third crack at it and INSERT FORK LIKE STATEMENT REGARDING CUBS FUTURE, and they're up against the wall with Jake. If the Cubs take an early lead and DOOM starts to set in, that crowd could easily work against the Pirates as much as it does the Cubs.
Considering Jake's doing all he can to walk out to a crescendo of boos, and that he seems to be basking in it all, I think the building's already been turned.
Quote from: Tonker on October 06, 2015, 01:45:48 PM
I don't think it's too much of a stretch to suggest that the 2003 game 6 prolapse was at least in part due to the palpable sense of panic that washed over the crowd at Wrigley. On the other hand, Cueto. So, you know... home field advantage is really neither here nor there.
I agree with this somewhat.
I just watched it again the other day - it automatically popped up after I watched a totally different Cubs moment on YouTube so what the fuck. After the Alou tantrum, the catcher and infielders huddled on the mound (Dusty was MIA natch along with Rothschild who looked like he'd swallowed a dead rat the entire inning) to speak with Prior, who promptly uncorked his worst pitch of the game. Ball four to Castillo was a slider that Shawon Dunston would have spit on, which bounced back to the bricks allowing Pierre to take third. Did the crowd and the sense of absolute dread cause Mark Prior to do that? Possibly. He looked rattled, whereas before he was cool as a cucumber. But he still got the bouncer to short that... well, fuck you know what happened.
Was Alex Gonzales so terrified that he couldn't corral that high hopper for a tailor-made twin killing? If so, fuck that guy so hard in his face that he ends up looking like the other Alex Gonzalez. God damn him either way.
Everything that happened afterward and the next day was just the Marlins kicking their ass all over the yard. Sense of dread or no.
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 03:37:33 PM
Quote from: Tonker on October 06, 2015, 01:45:48 PM
I don't think it's too much of a stretch to suggest that the 2003 game 6 prolapse was at least in part due to the palpable sense of panic that washed over the crowd at Wrigley. On the other hand, Cueto. So, you know... home field advantage is really neither here nor there.
I agree with this somewhat.
I just watched it again the other day - it automatically popped up after I watched a totally different Cubs moment on YouTube so what the fuck. After the Alou tantrum, the catcher and infielders huddled on the mound to speak with Prior (Dusty was MIA natch along with Rothschild who looked like he'd swallowed a dead rat the entire inning) who promptly uncorked his worst pitch of the game. Ball four to Castillo was a slider that Shawon Dunston would have spit on, which bounced back to the bricks allowing Pierre to take third. Did the crowd and the sense of absolute dread cause Mark Prior to do that? Possibly. He looked rattled, whereas before he was cool as a cucumber. But he still got the bouncer to short that... well, fuck you know what happened.
Was Alex Gonzales so terrified that he couldn't corral that high hopper for a tailor-made twin killing? If so, fuck that guy so hard in his face that he ends up looking like the other Alex Gonzalez. God damn him either way.
Everything that happened afterward and the next day was just the Marlins kicking their ass all over the yard. Sense of dread or no.
I too, watched the inning again for the first time since it actually happened thanks to youtube prompting me to watch it after positive Cubs highlights, and man, does Dusty just sitting on his fucking hands drive me insane.
Dusty's defenders always say his ability to manage the clubhouse (the 2004 Cubs beg to differ) and big personalities and motivate guys makes up for his tactical blunders and the destruction of young arms. Then why the fuck DIDN'T HE TRY TO GO TALK TO ANY OF THEM AND MOTIVATE THEM.
Maybe it wouldn't have made a difference, but I'll never not be mad at him for just flat out not managing that inning.
The order of blame I place on that meltdown.
1. Gonzalez (fuck him)
2. Dusty (get your ass out there and settle your pitcher down or send your pitching coach to do the same)
3. Farnsworth (thanks, dick)
4. Alou (calm the fuck down or lay off the greenies)
5. The rest of the bullpen (which was probably no more use than Farnsworth and might well have trashed that game one inning later)
...
1,080. Steve Bartman and the assclowns around him who reached for that foul pop.
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 03:47:41 PM
The order of blame I place on that meltdown.
1. Gonzalez (fuck him)
2. Dusty (get your ass out there and settle your pitcher down or send your pitching coach to do the same)
3. Farnsworth (thanks, dick)
4. Alou (calm the fuck down or lay off the greenies)
5. The rest of the bullpen (which was probably no more use than Farnsworth and might well have trashed that game one inning later)
...
1,080. Steve Bartman and the assclowns around him who reached for that foul pop.
I also watched it at YouTube's prompting yesterday. I wonder if the guy in the grey shirt/jacket two seats away from Bartman has properly counted his blessings. Because one extra inch of wingspan and he would've lived a very different life.
Quote from: ChuckD on October 06, 2015, 05:51:18 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 03:47:41 PM
The order of blame I place on that meltdown.
1. Gonzalez (fuck him)
2. Dusty (get your ass out there and settle your pitcher down or send your pitching coach to do the same)
3. Farnsworth (thanks, dick)
4. Alou (calm the fuck down or lay off the greenies)
5. The rest of the bullpen (which was probably no more use than Farnsworth and might well have trashed that game one inning later)
...
1,080. Steve Bartman and the assclowns around him who reached for that foul pop.
I also watched it at YouTube's prompting yesterday. I wonder if the guy in the grey shirt/jacket two seats away from Bartman has properly counted his blessings. Because one extra inch of wingspan and he would've lived a very different life.
I doubt he would've handled it as well as Bartman has. Bartman has gone out of his way to, well, stay out of the way.
Quote from: Canadouche on October 06, 2015, 05:58:46 PM
Quote from: ChuckD on October 06, 2015, 05:51:18 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 03:47:41 PM
The order of blame I place on that meltdown.
1. Gonzalez (fuck him)
2. Dusty (get your ass out there and settle your pitcher down or send your pitching coach to do the same)
3. Farnsworth (thanks, dick)
4. Alou (calm the fuck down or lay off the greenies)
5. The rest of the bullpen (which was probably no more use than Farnsworth and might well have trashed that game one inning later)
...
1,080. Steve Bartman and the assclowns around him who reached for that foul pop.
I also watched it at YouTube's prompting yesterday. I wonder if the guy in the grey shirt/jacket two seats away from Bartman has properly counted his blessings. Because one extra inch of wingspan and he would've lived a very different life.
I doubt he would've handled it as well as Bartman has. Bartman has gone out of his way to, well, stay out of the way.
Oh sure.
Now he gets out of the way.
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 06:09:31 PM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 06, 2015, 05:58:46 PM
Quote from: ChuckD on October 06, 2015, 05:51:18 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 03:47:41 PM
The order of blame I place on that meltdown.
1. Gonzalez (fuck him)
2. Dusty (get your ass out there and settle your pitcher down or send your pitching coach to do the same)
3. Farnsworth (thanks, dick)
4. Alou (calm the fuck down or lay off the greenies)
5. The rest of the bullpen (which was probably no more use than Farnsworth and might well have trashed that game one inning later)
...
1,080. Steve Bartman and the assclowns around him who reached for that foul pop.
I also watched it at YouTube's prompting yesterday. I wonder if the guy in the grey shirt/jacket two seats away from Bartman has properly counted his blessings. Because one extra inch of wingspan and he would've lived a very different life.
I doubt he would've handled it as well as Bartman has. Bartman has gone out of his way to, well, stay out of the way.
Oh sure. Now he gets out of the way.
I laughed. Back to your regularly scheduled 2003 reminiscing (wtf, guys).
Is it fucking Wednesday yet?
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 06, 2015, 06:19:45 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 06, 2015, 06:09:31 PM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 06, 2015, 05:58:46 PM
Quote from: ChuckD on October 06, 2015, 05:51:18 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 03:47:41 PM
The order of blame I place on that meltdown.
1. Gonzalez (fuck him)
2. Dusty (get your ass out there and settle your pitcher down or send your pitching coach to do the same)
3. Farnsworth (thanks, dick)
4. Alou (calm the fuck down or lay off the greenies)
5. The rest of the bullpen (which was probably no more use than Farnsworth and might well have trashed that game one inning later)
...
1,080. Steve Bartman and the assclowns around him who reached for that foul pop.
I also watched it at YouTube's prompting yesterday. I wonder if the guy in the grey shirt/jacket two seats away from Bartman has properly counted his blessings. Because one extra inch of wingspan and he would've lived a very different life.
I doubt he would've handled it as well as Bartman has. Bartman has gone out of his way to, well, stay out of the way.
Oh sure. Now he gets out of the way.
I laughed. Back to your regularly scheduled 2003 reminiscing (wtf, guys).
I bet that the number of times there has been an extended conversation about game 6 on this message board since the fringe came into existence averages once every three months, if not more.
Hopefully these guys continue on their second half tear and win the whole fucking thing and we can all forget about that terrible end to '03.
Quote from: Sterling Archer on October 06, 2015, 09:26:36 PM
Quote from: Bort on October 06, 2015, 09:09:22 PM
Quote from: Canadouche on October 06, 2015, 07:04:05 PM
Quote from: Bort on October 06, 2015, 07:00:06 PM
Is it fucking Wednesday yet?
It is in Australia.
Lucky fucking Tonkers.
No spoilers, Tonk.
Well, over here, the Astros have just beaten the Yanks 3-0 on a three-hitter. By my reckoning the game doesn't start for another fifteen minutes, so that should just about give you time to get down to the bookie's. You're welcome.
Quote from: ChuckD on October 06, 2015, 05:51:18 PM
Quote from: InternetApex on October 06, 2015, 03:47:41 PM
The order of blame I place on that meltdown.
1. Gonzalez (fuck him)
2. Dusty (get your ass out there and settle your pitcher down or send your pitching coach to do the same)
3. Farnsworth (thanks, dick)
4. Alou (calm the fuck down or lay off the greenies)
5. The rest of the bullpen (which was probably no more use than Farnsworth and might well have trashed that game one inning later)
...
1,080. Steve Bartman and the assclowns around him who reached for that foul pop.
I also watched it at YouTube's prompting yesterday. I wonder if the guy in the grey shirt/jacket two seats away from Bartman has properly counted his blessings. Because one extra inch of wingspan and he would've lived a very different life.
Youtube also prompted me to watch this, after one of those post-season hype videos that are going around. Somebody at Google is fucking with us.
Roster out (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/ct-kyle-hendricks-on-roster-20151007-story.html)
I don't know if I would call the inclusion of Hendricks a surprise.
Pitchers
28-Kyle Hendricks, RHP
33-Clayton Richard, LHP
34-Jon Lester, LHP
37-Travis Wood, LHP
46-Pedro Strop, RHP
49-Jake Arrieta, RHP
52-Justin Grimm, RHP
53-Trevor Cahill, RHP
56-Hector Rondon, RHP
57-Fernando Rodney, RHP
Position players
3-David Ross
5-Quintin Berry
8-Chris Coghlan
9-Javier Baez
11-Tommy La Stella
12-Kyle Schwarber
13-Starlin Castro
15-Chris Denorfia
17-Kris Bryant
22-Addison Russell
24-Dexter Fowler
27-Austin Jackson
44-Anthony Rizzo
47-Miguel Montero
68-Jorge Soler
According to ESPN, Cole throws his fastball against the Cubs 70% of the time, and the Cubs are the worst (or one of the worst) fastball hitters in the league this year. The one exception is Anthony Rizzo, who is crushing fastballs in general and Cole in particular.
Arrieta's big weakness - ha, "big" weakness - is that Pirates hitters are batting something like .265 against him when he pitches inside.
Armed with this inside information, I wouldn't be surprised if the game ended 1-0, decided on by a Rizzo solo shot against Cole.
Quote from: Canadouche on October 07, 2015, 10:06:30 AM
According to ESPN, Cole throws his fastball against the Cubs 70% of the time, and the Cubs are the worst (or one of the worst) fastball hitters in the league this year. The one exception is Anthony Rizzo, who is crushing fastballs in general and Cole in particular.
That's part of why I'm not super pumped about Castro starting -- he's never been a very good fastball hitter and he's been particularly terrible this year (even worse than most of the pitchers on the roster). And yes, that even factors in his recent success.
I'd almost be inclined to go with La Stella at 2B, Bryant at 3B, and give Jorge and his fastball-crushing ways a start in RF. If he can run into one, that might be the difference in the game.
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 09:48:54 AM
Roster out (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/ct-kyle-hendricks-on-roster-20151007-story.html)
I don't know if I would call the inclusion of Hendricks a surprise.
Pitchers
28-Kyle Hendricks, RHP
33-Clayton Richard, LHP
34-Jon Lester, LHP
37-Travis Wood, LHP
46-Pedro Strop, RHP
49-Jake Arrieta, RHP
52-Justin Grimm, RHP
53-Trevor Cahill, RHP
56-Hector Rondon, RHP
57-Fernando Rodney, RHP
Position players
3-David Ross
5-Quintin Berry
8-Chris Coghlan
9-Javier Baez
11-Tommy La Stella
12-Kyle Schwarber
13-Starlin Castro
15-Chris Denorfia
17-Kris Bryant
22-Addison Russell
24-Dexter Fowler
27-Austin Jackson
44-Anthony Rizzo
47-Miguel Montero
68-Jorge Soler
Buckets Herrera should reach out to Colin Fraser to understand what it's like to be on a team all season and not get to participate in the playoffs.
I feel like I'm gonna puke.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 07, 2015, 10:51:45 AM
I feel like I'm gonna puke.
Probably not good timing on my part but I have an echocardiogram scheduled for 8:00 am tomorrow morning.
Quote from: PenFoe on October 07, 2015, 10:51:45 AM
I feel like I'm gonna puke.
I'm vacillating wildly between feeling okay because Fork says that losing's completely fine and the Cubs will win loads of World Series anyway; and flat-out panic because Eli says the entire success or failure of the Epstein era comes down to one game, tonight.
Quote from: Tonker on October 07, 2015, 11:03:58 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 07, 2015, 10:51:45 AM
I feel like I'm gonna puke.
I'm vacillating wildly between feeling okay because Fork says that losing's completely fine and the Cubs will win loads of World Series anyway; and flat-out panic because Eli says the entire success or failure of the Epstein era comes down to one game, tonight.
(http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m5pr51nD7A1rrv52p.gif)
Quote from: Tonker on October 07, 2015, 11:03:58 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 07, 2015, 10:51:45 AM
I feel like I'm gonna puke.
I'm vacillating wildly between feeling okay because Fork says that losing's completely fine and the Cubs will win loads of World Series anyway; and flat-out panic because Eli says the entire success or failure of the Epstein era comes down to one game, tonight.
I assume you're planning on watching the game live? I don't envy your sleep schedule for the next few weeks if things go well tonight.
Or, I suppose, you might already be up since the games will be played late here.
Quote from: Canadouche on October 07, 2015, 11:18:26 AM
Quote from: Tonker on October 07, 2015, 11:03:58 AM
Quote from: PenFoe on October 07, 2015, 10:51:45 AM
I feel like I'm gonna puke.
I'm vacillating wildly between feeling okay because Fork says that losing's completely fine and the Cubs will win loads of World Series anyway; and flat-out panic because Eli says the entire success or failure of the Epstein era comes down to one game, tonight.
I assume you're planning on watching the game live? I don't envy your sleep schedule for the next few weeks if things go well tonight.
Or, I suppose, you might already be up since the games will be played late here.
Games against PIT or STL start at 0200-ish. Games in NY start an hour earlier, games in LA a couple of hours later. It's not ideal, but it's a bullet I will very gladly take.
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 09:48:54 AM
Roster out (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/ct-kyle-hendricks-on-roster-20151007-story.html)
I don't know if I would call the inclusion of Hendricks a surprise.
Pitchers
28-Kyle Hendricks, RHP
33-Clayton Richard, LHP
34-Jon Lester, LHP
37-Travis Wood, LHP
46-Pedro Strop, RHP
49-Jake Arrieta, RHP
52-Justin Grimm, RHP
53-Trevor Cahill, RHP
56-Hector Rondon, RHP
57-Fernando Rodney, RHP
Position players
3-David Ross
5-Quintin Berry
8-Chris Coghlan
9-Javier Baez
11-Tommy La Stella
12-Kyle Schwarber
13-Starlin Castro
15-Chris Denorfia
17-Kris Bryant
22-Addison Russell
24-Dexter Fowler
27-Austin Jackson
44-Anthony Rizzo
47-Miguel Montero
68-Jorge Soler
He's there just in case Joe needs somebody to give up some homeruns and look scared on the mound. PROVE ME WRONG, KYLE!
I thought Cahill couldn't make it because he wasn't on the 40-Man on 8/31 or am I misremembering?
Quote from: PANK! on October 07, 2015, 11:53:02 AM
I thought Cahill couldn't make it because he wasn't on the 40-Man on 8/31 or am I misremembering?
I believe he was added to the 40 Man on what they call August 32nd (basically added around midnight on 08/31, before the 09/01 games begin) so he was eligible to be on the postseason roster.
Hi, guys! Let's fucking go, eh?
I take back every nice thing I've said about Joe Sheehan. #pleaselikemyteam
QuoteCubs at Pirates, 8 p.m. ET.
Is this the most-anticipated baseball game ever? Usually, huge baseball games just show up -- a Game Seven, a critical pennant-race matchup, a terrific pitching duel between aces. You might have a day or two to let the rush build. For fans, Cubs at Pirates, 8 p.m. ET in PNC Park on October 7, has been on the schedule for months. It's been since July that we could see this coming, and despite some brief moments where it looked slightly less possible, it was never really in doubt. I feel like I've been talking about this game, between two of the best teams in baseball, maybe the two best today, for half the season.
The Pirates, despite having the better record, are being overlooked a bit here. Some of that is because they're no longer the cute story; this is their third straight year in the playoffs, every one as WC #1. The Clint Hurdle Invitational, this is becoming. Their opponent this time is the Cubs, whose national profile sucks all the oxygen out of the room. Throw in the Jake Arrieta story -- Arrieta has thrown just three pitches out of the strike zone and allowed just six foul balls and a weak pop-up since 1987, or some such -- and all of the attention is on the visitors. That's a mistake; this is a strong Pirates team putting one of the best pitchers in the game on the mound. The Pirates have the best position player in this game. They have the better bullpen. They have the better defense, especially tonight. They play in front of a baseball crowd that occasionally behaves like a college-football one, famously throwing Johnny Cueto off his game two years ago in this same spot. I'm not saying they're going to win; I'm saying the Pirates being a betting underdog and positioned as "opponent" in the Cubs' story is badly understating their case.
Looking at the lineups, the contrast in approaches is the big pregame story. Hurdle has gone max-defense, starting Josh Harrison at third base and Sean Rodriguez at first, benching Aramis Ramirez and Pedro Alvarez in the process. There's some Earl Weaver in this, Earl's idea often being that he'd start the defense and, if he needed runs late in the game, he had options on the bench for getting them. There's some tactical advantage to this; you can pick a spot for a hitter to get a high-leverage at-bat more easily than you can pick when a fielder will have a ball hit to him. It's nevertheless a surprise to see Alvarez on the bench. Arrieta's vicious breaking stuff certainly makes a case for sitting the lefty, though; he struck out 30% of the lefties he faced this year, walked just 6.6% and allowed them just three home runs. The upgrade from Alvarez to Rodriguez on defense is large, as Alvarez is perhaps the worst defensive first baseman in the game.
Hurdle has gone with the becoming-standard 16/9 roster alignment, keeping Francisco Liriano around as the long man (and theoretically someone who could face Anthony Rizzo in a one-batter spot). Keon Broxton, who scored a big run against the Cubs in Wrigley three weeks ago, is rostered, as is Pedro Florimon. I could have seen finding a sport for Jaff Decker or Travis Ishikawa rather than Joe Blanton, but I understand managers not wanting to risk running out of pitchers in a 16-inning game...
Quote...Joe Maddon has gone 15/10, keeping Trevor Cahill and Kyle Hendricks and Jon Lester around for reasons passing understanding. Lester, who can't throw to first, can't field his position and needs a personal catcher, seems like the last guy you'd ask for an inning of relief work in a high-pressure spot. If you wanted a third long man, Dan Haren and Jason Hammel would have both been better choices, and Neil Ramirez is a more effective reliever than anyone else mentioned in this paragraph. It's kind of a fascinating pitching staff: 20% of it (Trevor Cahill and Fernando Rodney) was justifiably dumped by bad teams in-season, plus Clayton Richard is a retread with a 12% strikeout rate.
In contrast to Hurdle, Maddon is stacking his lineup with bats, assembling an outfield of, left to right, a third baseman, a left fielder and a catcher. It's a big risk at PNC Park, especially in a game where a missed fly ball, or even an extra base gained on a hit, could prove decisive. The swap that creates that outfield is that of Jorge Soler for Tommy LaStella, getting an extra left-handed bat and better OBP into the game. This seems like overmanaging. Cole's arm angle, repertoire and statistical profile belie the need to stack lefties against him.
Gerrit Cole, Neutral RHP
PA AVG OBP SLG K% BB%
2015 vs. LHB 416 .227 .287 .310 24% 6%
2015 vs. RHB 416 .251 .287 .361 24% 4%
Career vs. LHB 898 .239 .303 .337 23% 7%
Career vs. RHB 974 .251 .295 .360 24% 5%
Nerd note: Cole faced exactly 416 hitters on both sides of the plate this year, struck out exactly 101 of each and allowed a .287 OBP to LHBs and RHBs.
I could argue that Maddon, by starting his lineup SLRLL, is trying to bait Hurdle into going to his bullpen rather than riding Cole, perhaps figuring that's his best chance to win the game. I'm not sure the Pirates' bullpen is weak enough to make that a sensible path.
All of this is probably overanalysis. We have two of the five best starters in the National League facing each other. In all likelihood, this will be a low-scoring game decided by which team stacks a couple of long hits together, or times a single one well. The Pirates, with their deeper pitching staff, are better equipped to win a game that is decided late. They also, with good speed in the starting lineup plus Broxton on the bench, are better equipped to manufacture a run if the game gets to a point where doing so makes sense. The Cubs' argument is Jake Arrieta. The Pirates' argument is pretty much everything else. Pirates in one.
Can I go back and un-read all that?
Quote from: Tonker on October 07, 2015, 04:28:00 PM
Can I go back and un-read all that?
How about I just nitpick it instead:
I agree you might not bring in Lester with two men on or the bases loaded, but I see no reason why he couldn't be used to (a) start an inning or (b) with a runner on first. He's the second best pitcher on the team. Although I will say it seems unnecessary to have both Lester *and* Hendricks on the roster.
Labeling Fowler a left-fielder is a bit much and Sheehan admitted as much when I questioned him on it:
QuoteCalling Dexter Fowler a LF is a bit harsh, no? He's obviously not a Kiermaier or a Cain out there but based on my completely unbiased and reliable eye test he's been at least average if not above average out there this year – I'd say most Cubs fans have been pleasantly surprised with his defense that, based on the metrics, we were expecting to be below average. If he's a left fielder than there's only 5 or 10 starter-level "center fielders" in the game today.
QuoteI've thought the same. Metrics hate him, across the board. Adam Jones is the same way.
And Joe has stated that the La Stella play is less about platoon advantage and more about having a contact hitter at that spot in the lineup, given the issues they've had getting guys in from 3rd with less than 2 outs.
QuoteI could argue that Maddon, by starting his lineup SLRLL, is trying to bait Hurdle into going to his bullpen rather than riding Cole, perhaps figuring that's his best chance to win the game. I'm not sure the Pirates' bullpen is weak enough to make that a sensible path.
(https://imgflip.com/s/meme/Jackie-Chan-WTF.jpg)
T MINUS TWO HOURS, FEMALE DOGS!
Absolute total fucking freakout happened at the flannj household about 20 minutes ago as the power went out for absolutely no reason.
It's back on now but holy crap the level of swearing from Mrs. flannj during those minutes I thought was going to summon the ghost of Thomas Edison just so she could drive a stake through his heart.
(http://i.ytimg.com/vi/aB2yqeD0Nus/hqdefault.jpg)
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 06:07:10 PM
It's back on now but holy crap the level of swearing from Mrs. flannj during those minutes I thought was going to summon the ghost of Thomas Edison just so she could drive a stake through his heart.
That's why I always have a set of four fresh D batteries for the radio.
Quote from: Wheezer on October 07, 2015, 07:02:22 PM
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 06:07:10 PM
It's back on now but holy crap the level of swearing from Mrs. flannj during those minutes I thought was going to summon the ghost of Thomas Edison just so she could drive a stake through his heart.
That's why I always have a set of four fresh D batteries for the radio.
Thank God you're here I may need something to calm my nerves.
Schwarber just did his best to settle all of us.
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 07:07:09 PM
Quote from: Wheezer on October 07, 2015, 07:02:22 PM
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 06:07:10 PM
It's back on now but holy crap the level of swearing from Mrs. flannj during those minutes I thought was going to summon the ghost of Thomas Edison just so she could drive a stake through his heart.
That's why I always have a set of four fresh D batteries for the radio.
Thank God you're here I may need something to calm my nerves.
If you instead were here, I could treat that with a judicious combination of uppers and downers.
Quote from: Wheezer on October 07, 2015, 07:25:04 PM
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 07:07:09 PM
Quote from: Wheezer on October 07, 2015, 07:02:22 PM
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 06:07:10 PM
It's back on now but holy crap the level of swearing from Mrs. flannj during those minutes I thought was going to summon the ghost of Thomas Edison just so she could drive a stake through his heart.
That's why I always have a set of four fresh D batteries for the radio.
Thank God you're here I may need something to calm my nerves.
If you instead were here, I could treat that with a judicious combination of uppers and downers.
So I'd be completely sober?
Quote from: Wheezer on October 07, 2015, 07:25:04 PM
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 07:07:09 PM
Quote from: Wheezer on October 07, 2015, 07:02:22 PM
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 06:07:10 PM
It's back on now but holy crap the level of swearing from Mrs. flannj during those minutes I thought was going to summon the ghost of Thomas Edison just so she could drive a stake through his heart.
That's why I always have a set of four fresh D batteries for the radio.
Thank God you're here I may need something to calm my nerves.
If you instead were here, I could treat that with a judicious combination of uppers and downers.
I understood all of the words in two straight Wheezer posts. This really may be the end times.
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 07:29:54 PM
Quote from: Wheezer on October 07, 2015, 07:25:04 PM
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 07:07:09 PM
Quote from: Wheezer on October 07, 2015, 07:02:22 PM
Quote from: flannj on October 07, 2015, 06:07:10 PM
It's back on now but holy crap the level of swearing from Mrs. flannj during those minutes I thought was going to summon the ghost of Thomas Edison just so she could drive a stake through his heart.
That's why I always have a set of four fresh D batteries for the radio.
Thank God you're here I may need something to calm my nerves.
If you instead were here, I could treat that with a judicious combination of uppers and downers.
So I'd be completely sober?
You'd probably never notice the difference.
BREEVE!
I don't know if any of you guys Reddit, but the Pirates subreddit is rapidly descending into anarchy right now.
Quote from: ChuckD on October 07, 2015, 04:38:05 PM
QuoteI could argue that Maddon, by starting his lineup SLRLL, is trying to bait Hurdle into going to his bullpen rather than riding Cole, perhaps figuring that's his best chance to win the game. I'm not sure the Pirates' bullpen is weak enough to make that a sensible path.
(https://imgflip.com/s/meme/Jackie-Chan-WTF.jpg)
For certain values of "bait."
FASTEN THOSE DONGBELTS.
Quote from: R-V on October 07, 2015, 04:17:28 PM
Quote...Joe Maddon has gone 15/10, keeping Trevor Cahill and Kyle Hendricks and Jon Lester around for reasons passing understanding. Lester, who can't throw to first, can't field his position and needs a personal catcher, seems like the last guy you'd ask for an inning of relief work in a high-pressure spot. If you wanted a third long man, Dan Haren and Jason Hammel would have both been better choices, and Neil Ramirez is a more effective reliever than anyone else mentioned in this paragraph. It's kind of a fascinating pitching staff: 20% of it (Trevor Cahill and Fernando Rodney) was justifiably dumped by bad teams in-season, plus Clayton Richard is a retread with a 12% strikeout rate.
In contrast to Hurdle, Maddon is stacking his lineup with bats, assembling an outfield of, left to right, a third baseman, a left fielder and a catcher. It's a big risk at PNC Park, especially in a game where a missed fly ball, or even an extra base gained on a hit, could prove decisive. The swap that creates that outfield is that of Jorge Soler for Tommy LaStella, getting an extra left-handed bat and better OBP into the game. This seems like overmanaging. Cole's arm angle, repertoire and statistical profile belie the need to stack lefties against him.
Gerrit Cole, Neutral RHP
PA AVG OBP SLG K% BB%
2015 vs. LHB 416 .227 .287 .310 24% 6%
2015 vs. RHB 416 .251 .287 .361 24% 4%
Career vs. LHB 898 .239 .303 .337 23% 7%
Career vs. RHB 974 .251 .295 .360 24% 5%
Nerd note: Cole faced exactly 416 hitters on both sides of the plate this year, struck out exactly 101 of each and allowed a .287 OBP to LHBs and RHBs.
I could argue that Maddon, by starting his lineup SLRLL, is trying to bait Hurdle into going to his bullpen rather than riding Cole, perhaps figuring that's his best chance to win the game. I'm not sure the Pirates' bullpen is weak enough to make that a sensible path.
All of this is probably overanalysis. We have two of the five best starters in the National League facing each other. In all likelihood, this will be a low-scoring game decided by which team stacks a couple of long hits together, or times a single one well. The Pirates, with their deeper pitching staff, are better equipped to win a game that is decided late. They also, with good speed in the starting lineup plus Broxton on the bench, are better equipped to manufacture a run if the game gets to a point where doing so makes sense. The Cubs' argument is Jake Arrieta. The Pirates' argument is pretty much everything else. Pirates in one.
Yup.
Quote from: CT III on October 07, 2015, 10:03:16 PM
Quote from: R-V on October 07, 2015, 04:17:28 PM
Quote...Joe Maddon has gone 15/10, keeping Trevor Cahill and Kyle Hendricks and Jon Lester around for reasons passing understanding. Lester, who can't throw to first, can't field his position and needs a personal catcher, seems like the last guy you'd ask for an inning of relief work in a high-pressure spot. If you wanted a third long man, Dan Haren and Jason Hammel would have both been better choices, and Neil Ramirez is a more effective reliever than anyone else mentioned in this paragraph. It's kind of a fascinating pitching staff: 20% of it (Trevor Cahill and Fernando Rodney) was justifiably dumped by bad teams in-season, plus Clayton Richard is a retread with a 12% strikeout rate.
In contrast to Hurdle, Maddon is stacking his lineup with bats, assembling an outfield of, left to right, a third baseman, a left fielder and a catcher. It's a big risk at PNC Park, especially in a game where a missed fly ball, or even an extra base gained on a hit, could prove decisive. The swap that creates that outfield is that of Jorge Soler for Tommy LaStella, getting an extra left-handed bat and better OBP into the game. This seems like overmanaging. Cole's arm angle, repertoire and statistical profile belie the need to stack lefties against him.
Gerrit Cole, Neutral RHP
PA AVG OBP SLG K% BB%
2015 vs. LHB 416 .227 .287 .310 24% 6%
2015 vs. RHB 416 .251 .287 .361 24% 4%
Career vs. LHB 898 .239 .303 .337 23% 7%
Career vs. RHB 974 .251 .295 .360 24% 5%
Nerd note: Cole faced exactly 416 hitters on both sides of the plate this year, struck out exactly 101 of each and allowed a .287 OBP to LHBs and RHBs.
I could argue that Maddon, by starting his lineup SLRLL, is trying to bait Hurdle into going to his bullpen rather than riding Cole, perhaps figuring that's his best chance to win the game. I'm not sure the Pirates' bullpen is weak enough to make that a sensible path.
All of this is probably overanalysis. We have two of the five best starters in the National League facing each other. In all likelihood, this will be a low-scoring game decided by which team stacks a couple of long hits together, or times a single one well. The Pirates, with their deeper pitching staff, are better equipped to win a game that is decided late. They also, with good speed in the starting lineup plus Broxton on the bench, are better equipped to manufacture a run if the game gets to a point where doing so makes sense. The Cubs' argument is Jake Arrieta. The Pirates' argument is pretty much everything else. Pirates in one.
Yup.
The Cubs made a pretty convincing argument.
thank Christ.
Thought my head was about to explode when the Pirates had the bases loaded.
Jake.
Quote from: PANK! on October 07, 2015, 10:59:17 PM
Thought my head was about to explode when the Pirates had the bases loaded.
Jake.
Something something something Huey's bike.
Quote from: PANK! on October 07, 2015, 10:59:17 PM
Thought my head was about to explode when the Pirates had the bases loaded.
Jake.
That Addison booted a double play grounder he makes 99/100 times gave me some awful flashbacks but Jake is made of sterner stuff and Addison wasn't gonna fuck it up a second time
Quote from: SKO on October 07, 2015, 11:20:08 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 07, 2015, 10:59:17 PM
Thought my head was about to explode when the Pirates had the bases loaded.
Jake.
That Addison booted a double play grounder he makes 99/100 times gave me some awful flashbacks but Jake is made of sterner stuff and Addison wasn't gonna fuck it up a second time
Looking back on it, I am glad Addison 'booted' that first DP ball. While it would had been a tough play regardless, it got all of us to having those dreadful thoughts about 2003. And then Addison and Castro and Rizzo made the next play, and reminded us all that
This. isn't. that. team.
Quote from: thehawk on October 08, 2015, 10:11:30 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 07, 2015, 11:20:08 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 07, 2015, 10:59:17 PM
Thought my head was about to explode when the Pirates had the bases loaded.
Jake.
That Addison booted a double play grounder he makes 99/100 times gave me some awful flashbacks but Jake is made of sterner stuff and Addison wasn't gonna fuck it up a second time
Looking back on it, I am glad Addison 'booted' that first DP ball. While it would had been a tough play regardless, it got all of us to having those dreadful thoughts about 2003. And then Addison and Castro and Rizzo made the next play, and reminded us all that
This. isn't. that. team.
That Russell came back to make the play the second time (also his first mistake, if you can call it that, DID save a run at least) wasn't surprising. The Bryant backhand DP blew my pants off. That one ended me. Just plain fucking sick.
Quote from: Slaky on October 08, 2015, 10:12:35 AM
Quote from: thehawk on October 08, 2015, 10:11:30 AM
Quote from: SKO on October 07, 2015, 11:20:08 PM
Quote from: PANK! on October 07, 2015, 10:59:17 PM
Thought my head was about to explode when the Pirates had the bases loaded.
Jake.
That Addison booted a double play grounder he makes 99/100 times gave me some awful flashbacks but Jake is made of sterner stuff and Addison wasn't gonna fuck it up a second time
Looking back on it, I am glad Addison 'booted' that first DP ball. While it would had been a tough play regardless, it got all of us to having those dreadful thoughts about 2003. And then Addison and Castro and Rizzo made the next play, and reminded us all that
This. isn't. that. team.
That Russell came back to make the play the second time (also his first mistake, if you can call it that, DID save a run at least) wasn't surprising. The Bryant backhand DP blew my pants off. That one ended me. Just plain fucking sick.
I'm pretty sure that, if you look closely, Bryant has a huge grin after he spears that ball.
My wife was super nervous and pissed at me because I felt pretty confident that Arrieta would get out of it. Sooner or later he's going to give up a run and look human, but even when he looks human he'll still be Arrieta.