tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59121045157518135412024-03-05T08:22:18.633-08:00The View: Jays Edition4,000 km & 5 Provinces Away, Where Every Game Is An Afternoon GameRhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-69135228853067592512010-06-16T08:53:00.000-07:002010-06-16T09:14:30.966-07:00What's Wrong with Adam?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lucianogalasso.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/hill-lind-bluejays_584.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 466px; height: 262px;" src="http://lucianogalasso.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/hill-lind-bluejays_584.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />As this teams recent offensive struggles have shown on this road trip, wins can be hard to find for the 2010 Jays.<br /><br />Where they just a tease? Are we now seeing the real Jays?<br /><br />I don't think by any means that the Jays are as bad as they have looked on this road trip. There pitchers are getting hit (but even Doc gets hit), and there streaking hitters are slowly cooling off.<br /><br />Really, I could care less about the wins and losses. After all, we are supposed to be rebuilding this year! Last place happens. Thank God we have the Orioles in our division though. They make any rebuilding process look easy.<br /><br />But the the hell is up with Aaron Hill and Adam Lind? Could you imagine our team when our number 2 and 3 hitter are actually hitting? When was the last time Adam Lind had a good game?<br /><br />JoBau said the other day in a pregame, that AA needed to add another piece, and they would be contenders. Well, no Jose, what you need is to figure out what the fuck is up with Lind's swing.<br /><br />Aaron has been showing signs of life lately, and is coming back after injury - we can all respect that.<br /><br />But what does Lind have to say? Not much.<br /><br />Lind is on pace to <span style="font-style: italic;">crush</span> his KO total from 2009. 110 in 2009, and he is on pace for 162. Yikes.<br /><br />It isn't only he swings and misses, he looks silly at the plate much of the time, he rarely hits the ball with authority anymore.<br /><br />When Adam started the year well, V-Dub was able to tear it up after him, with Gonzo, Buck, and JoBau behind him for protection, but with the slumping Lewis, Hill and Lind in front of him he has lost any protection.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-64569335217161656522010-06-03T10:18:00.000-07:002010-06-03T18:42:57.217-07:00Draft UpdateI know we probably all know this already, but here is the breakdown of the Blue Jays 2010 Draft courtesy of Jordan Bastion.<br /><p><strong>First round:</strong></p> <p>No. 11</p> <p><strong>Comp round A:</strong></p> <p>No. 34 (Marco Scutaro free agent compensation)<br />No. 38 (James Paxton unsigned in 2009)<br />No. 41 (Rod Barajas free agent compensation)</p> <p><strong>Second round:</strong></p> <p>No. 61<br />No. 69 (Jake Eliopoulos unsigned in 2009)<br />No. 80 (Scutaro free agent compensation)</p> <p><strong>Third round:</strong></p> <p>No. 93</p> <p><strong>Comp round B:</strong></p> <p>No. 113 (Jake Barrett unsigned in 2009)</p> <p><strong>Fourth round:</strong></p> <p>No. 126</p><span style="font-weight: bold;">MLBTR Name Drops<br /><br /></span>MLBTR has reported Karston Whitson as a possible Jays pick (reporting him to possibly go 11th overall to the Jays).<br /><br />Whitson is a "6-foot-4, 195 lb. frame that scouts can dream on, but unlike most other prep pitchers, he also offers command and poise beyond his years.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span>"<br /><br />He will be fresh out of high school, and scouts have him ranked as high as 5th best player, and as low as 15th. He features a fastball in the "91-96 mph range, and also features a swing-and-miss slider, an average changeup and good command<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>,</span>" however it is "Whitson's mound presence and polish that really separates him from the pack<span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>."<br /><br /><a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?topic_id=8080130&content_id=7189147">Here</a> is some video of Mr. Whitson.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Update<br /><br /></span>Interestingly enough, MLB.com's mock draft of <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100602&content_id=10713530&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb">round one</a> did not have Whitson going, and instead the Jays are taking <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?topic_id=8080130&content_id=7863285">Josh Sale</a>, who plays okay right field, and who has better bat speed than Snider did at that age.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-14872838795438646072010-06-02T19:26:00.000-07:002010-06-02T19:47:48.996-07:00Jays Lose Series to Rays<span style="font-weight: bold;">Marcum Let Down By Hitters<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikfoJzEOY2orizcgZvIOEJnSDiXoz-nVwjMLyPZ2ZuxzCdn1Jw9dxvStf3iOBti68fd_nW2KNftNRRvYkZ2xpT9Yq251uo4YfUR3ZOAYl4ok92HsVMTOPXv0z9nUPQi9BKUHZScMtwManQ/s1600/Shaun+Marcum.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikfoJzEOY2orizcgZvIOEJnSDiXoz-nVwjMLyPZ2ZuxzCdn1Jw9dxvStf3iOBti68fd_nW2KNftNRRvYkZ2xpT9Yq251uo4YfUR3ZOAYl4ok92HsVMTOPXv0z9nUPQi9BKUHZScMtwManQ/s400/Shaun+Marcum.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478371566229066818" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><span>Marcum pitched one hell of a game tonight, getting himself out of jam after jam. Marcum really is one of the nicer Jays pitchers to watch because he is really good (obviously), but he gets himself into the occasional jam, and busts his ass to get himself out of that jam.<br /><br />For that he is my POG, despite surrendering 4 ER over 8.1.<br /><br />It would have been nice to see Marcum go the distance and pick up the win, but tonight was one of those nights where the offense just couldn't really get anything going, and couldn't take Price deep.<br /><br />Oh well, bring on them Yankees!</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Gaston Defends His Crossing Guard<br /><br /><span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://img.fannation.com/upload/truth_rumor/photo_upload/977/98/full/Cito-Gaston.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 210px;" src="http://img.fannation.com/upload/truth_rumor/photo_upload/977/98/full/Cito-Gaston.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span></span></span></span>Cito Gaston defended his use of Kevin Gregg despite Gregg acting more of a school crossing guard than a MLB closer.<br /><br />Cito Gaston had this to say:<br /><br /><blockquote>I know people are giving me a lot of [grief] for leaving him out there. But if they want to come out of the stands and pitch, I'd be happy for them. Anybody wants to show up and pitch, come on.<br /></blockquote>Cito, I do understand you simply want to say you have your pitcher's back, and he's a veteran and he'll pull throw all this but... that's how you say it?!?!<br /><br />Those shades and that mustache make you look like one smooth mo-fo, but I think we all agree you are no smooth-talker.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><br /></span>For the record, Gregg is 14 for 17 in saves - Rafael Soriano, the closer for the Rays the TV informed me today is 16 for 16, and <span style="font-style: italic;">that</span> is one a several reasons the Rays are in first, and the Jays are not, despite having an offense scoring runs and starting pitchers who are performing excellently.<br /><br />Thank you Kevin Gregg, thank you.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-7935244208471436102010-06-01T19:17:00.000-07:002010-06-01T21:48:54.564-07:00Blow A Save Once, Shame On You, Blow a Save Twice (3,4,5...), Shame On Me<span style="font-weight: bold;">Well there goes the draft picks...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Toronto+Blue+Jays+Photo+Day+P074u-EUcKpl.jpg"><br /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGu3ba7zrSR-YSWSksEiva0JSA6Xca2kn5-0pCjBv1XdBpbJUQ4cQO5xBksLzJx42kwXXDQFWrDNxhrvbjI3K8KMR2dZ8o_1Cgkl3YRdDxva-PFncmBo8CinKNFD_e1weXOhJJN83UV7s/s1600/hhh.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 389px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGu3ba7zrSR-YSWSksEiva0JSA6Xca2kn5-0pCjBv1XdBpbJUQ4cQO5xBksLzJx42kwXXDQFWrDNxhrvbjI3K8KMR2dZ8o_1Cgkl3YRdDxva-PFncmBo8CinKNFD_e1weXOhJJN83UV7s/s400/hhh.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478030788012766002" border="0" /></a></span>The potential draft picks that we could have received for trading the AL leader in saves are seemingly disappearing faster a Brandon Morrow heater.<br /><br />Gregg started amazing, turned mediocre, then to scary, and now to complete donkey-fucker. 0.2 innings in a two run game and he walks fucking FIVE BATTERS?!<br /><br />If we weren't in the situation we are, I would maybe be okay with riding it out for awhile longer. But, we still find ourselves in the mix, and while I'm not saying trade for a legit closer, a move has to be made.<br /><br />Use Downs. Use Frasor. Use the bat boy. Just <span style="font-style: italic;">do not</span> use Gregg.<br /><br />As I mentioned I do not think the Jays should trade to make the push that MLBTR suggested (see below article), however I am not really one to believe in rolling over. While still in the hunt, even if it's for second place in the AL East and bragging rights, the Jays have to put the best team possible out on the field right now.<br /><br />This may be tough for Cito, because as we know he likes to let it ride, when dealing with veteran slumps.<br /><br />As always, only time will tell. If in September we sit 3 games out of the WC, these blown saves will be re-opened wounds.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><span>Tonight's POG is Fred Lewis for scoring three runs while going 3 for 5 with a HR.<br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /></span>Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-31603954642249244512010-05-31T18:42:00.000-07:002010-05-31T19:59:27.967-07:00Gonzo Saves the Game for Gregg<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Detroit+Tigers+v+Toronto+Blue+Jays+NgCnOPCmZ7Pl.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 339px; height: 237px;" src="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Detroit+Tigers+v+Toronto+Blue+Jays+NgCnOPCmZ7Pl.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Kevin Gregg decided to make things interesting tonight, but the Jays managed to prevail, beating Tampa Bay 3-2, in a big part by Gonzo's heads-up play to get Longoria at the plate.<br /><br />This next stretch of games are important for the Jays and Jays fans. With games against the Yankees and the Rays at both home and on the road, the Jays will let the MLB know just how "for real" they are, and will allow Jays fans to adjust any potential hope for this season.<br /><br />So far this season, the Jays have not fared well against TB, or Boston, but so far in this stretch, so good.<br /><br />Tonight's Player of the Game is Aaron Hill for going 3 for 4, with 1 run, 1 RBI and was one of only two batters with no LOB. This was nice to see for Aaron, hopefully he can start swinging the bat a little better.<br /><br />The Jays only 3.5 game out of first place, and 9 games above .500 after 53 games, which is is almost one-third of the MLB season, and I <span style="font-style: italic;">wish</span> I know what to think about expectations for this season.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hechavarria Starts Road to the Jays</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://elduke.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/leonis-martin-vcl.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 132px; height: 173px;" src="http://elduke.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/leonis-martin-vcl.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Adeiny Hechavarria, our new Cuban shortstop of the future, is off to a decent start for Class A Dunedin. So far his line after 18 games reads: .278 AVG, 0 HR, 6 RBI, 10 R, 2 SB, 11 SO, 1 BB, and a OBP of .288.<br /><br />Perhaps not quite the start some were hoping for, but one has to greatly appreciate being in a new country, not to mention learning a new language, being away from his family, and playing against Americans (mostly). His complete season stats are <a href="http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?pos=&sid=t424&t=p_pbp&pid=588751">here</a>.<br /><br />Bob Elliot wrote <a href="http://www.torontosun.com/sports/baseball/2010/05/30/14188621.html">this</a> on him. Bob Elliot is a complete retard, and I basically take nothing he <span style="font-style: italic;">personally</span> has to say, I do value his sources of scouts and what they have to say. Seemingly, Hechavarria will be a strong Tony F., who will most definitely play a solid shortstop.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-27718607865417381852010-05-31T08:29:00.000-07:002010-05-31T08:34:28.801-07:00Jays Complete Sweep of Brutal OriolesJays 5, Orioles 0 - POG is Marcum<br />Jays 5, Orioles 2 - POG is Cecil<br />Jays 6, Orioles 1 - POG is Romero<br /><br />Sorry about not writing much... weekend and I've been sick.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-90351913545148847482010-05-26T09:03:00.000-07:002010-05-26T09:13:53.731-07:00Blue Jays Are Buyers?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3195/2743621089_a7bc737bf5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 410px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3195/2743621089_a7bc737bf5.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I love <a href="http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/">MLBTR</a>.<br /><br />For those of you who don't read it religiously, you should.<br /><br />But this is a little <a href="http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/05/starting-pitching-buyers.html">absurd</a>.<br /><br />MLBTR lists the Jays as SP buyers this season, presumably for the post-season push.<br /><br />I won't pretend to know as much about rebuilding as perhaps some, but I'm not sure the rebuilding process includes stocking up on veteran pitching at the first sings of a plus .500 team.<br /><br />In fact, I'm pretty sure that's about the worst thing you can do.<br /><br />I'm all for the Jays being competitive this year, and if they make the playoffs?! Fucking sweet!!!<br /><br />But, being realistic, I know that to throw away our stockpiled draft picks for one year Roy Oswalt is pretty fucking dumb.<br /><br />This year we will ride out whatever the team we have now happens to do.<br /><br />So MLBTR, on behalf of Blue Jays nations, please remove us from the list of buyers.<br /><br />The list of MLBTR SP sellers, is <a href="http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/05/starting-pitching-supply-and-demand.html">here</a>.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-34649146440692346072010-05-25T22:04:00.000-07:002010-05-25T22:18:26.399-07:00A Game To Forget<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2472/3957398704_2fdc801ccf.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2472/3957398704_2fdc801ccf.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Tonight was pretty ugly. Romero got rocked, and the Jays could only muster 4 hits against Ervin Santana who loves to pitch against the Jays this year. <br /><br />Three out of the four hits were solo home runs, and JoBau launched his 15th earning him a POG. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">"But you should be working banker's hours!!!"</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bloggerheads.com/images/crazy_frog.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 302px;" src="http://www.bloggerheads.com/images/crazy_frog.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I have to say that after tonight's game I am pretty fucking pissed off. I know it wasn't the best game, and it's a long damn year and loses are bound to happen, but I think it's the fucking commercials that Sports Net shows about 100 times a commercial break.<br /><br />If I hear one more old man talking about banker's hours or one more garlic pizza add I will fucking kill myself.<br /><br />Seriously Sports Net, wins don't feel as good as they should, and losses sting worse than they should after suffering through those fucking adds time and time again.<br /><br />I would almost prefer Jamie Campbell in between the innings.<br /><br />Almost.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-87392820443048738712010-05-25T09:16:00.000-07:002010-05-25T09:45:25.701-07:00Long Weekend Edition<span style="font-weight:bold;">Arizona In a Flash</span><br /><br />Arizona 8, Toronto, 6 - POG Encarnacion<br />Arizona 8, Toronto, 5 - POG R. Lewis<br />Toronto 12, Arizona, 4 - POG JoBau<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Cecil Dominates Angles</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.tosports.ca/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/brett-cecil-toronto-blue-jays-pitcher-and-lou-rogers-centre.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 612px; height: 408px;" src="http://www.tosports.ca/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/brett-cecil-toronto-blue-jays-pitcher-and-lou-rogers-centre.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I agree. Thumbs up for Brett Cecil after a dominating 7.1 inning of ball against the Angels. For his effort, he wins another POG award.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Big Deal News Over the Weekend</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:veJ1KCJEPq3VIM:http://studentbundle.com/images/themes/pink-home/big-deal.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 128px; height: 130px;" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:veJ1KCJEPq3VIM:http://studentbundle.com/images/themes/pink-home/big-deal.png" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Dana Eveland was designated to AAA, but of course his awesome stats will have to pass the waiver wire first. No real shock here. Although he did say this about the Blue Jays organization, "Top to bottom, it's the best organization I've been in." <br /><br />With the demotion of Eveland, let the speculators speculate who will be the 5th starter. Purcey Lewis was called up, but he will be in the bullpen. This week the Jays have opted for a 4 man rotation, so no answers for a bit. <br /><br />While perhaps the Jays will call up someone from AAA, my guess is that it will be our Weather Man, Brian Tallet. He is due for a return "late-May." Long shot off the DL would be Jesse Litsch who could possibly be back June 3. All injury updates <a href="http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/mlb/fantasy/wsfb/news/injuries.jsp#team117">here</a>.<br /><br />Lyle Overbay just recently has put his average over the two-hundy mark. Keep it up Lyle! Maybe we will be able to trade you for more than a roll of bubble tape and water bottle after all!<br /><br />Aaron Hill just cannot seem to figure it out at the plate. I have the utmost faith that he can regain his stroke, but it would be nicer to see sooner rather than later.<br /><br />Adam Lind has seen his average slowly drop the past 2 weeks. He hadn't hit a home run in awhile, but took one large in Arizona, and has been hitting a little better since then. Let's hope, he's out of his little funk.<br /><br />My esteemed colleague found perhaps one of the internet baseball worlds most interesting websites. <a href="http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2010/3/24/1386512/pitcher-and-hitter-friendly-umpires">This website</a> ranks all umpires on whether they are pitcher-friendly, or hitter-friendly. Most definitely worth a read.<br /><br />Tonight's game features Slick Rick and rumor has it that the Angels may not even bother showing up.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-78607079897488078442010-05-20T15:16:00.000-07:002010-05-20T15:34:09.559-07:00Jays Split Again<span style="font-weight:bold;">Kevin Gregg Likes Balls (More Than Strikes)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.cubby-blue.com/.a/6a00d83451fe4669e20115708ec010970b-800wi"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 296px; height: 720px;" src="http://www.cubby-blue.com/.a/6a00d83451fe4669e20115708ec010970b-800wi" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Kevin Gregg, seemingly bored with being the AL saves leader, decided to allow fellow closers to catch up by blowing the fuck out of this save.<br /><br />Romero is <span style="font-style:italic;">obviously</span> the POG from that game. In line for his fifth win, but Gregg blew that game.<br /><br />I know Gregg had pitched pretty solid until this, but I mean come on. 25 pitches, 13 of which are balls? 2 walks? Interesting strategy for a closer.<br /><br />When Trevor Hoffman pitches now he gets hit hard, but at least he's not fucking walking batters. At least then you can say the hitters beat you, but this game, Gregg, you totally lost that one yourself. You cannot tell me that the Mariners beat the Jays tonight. The Jays <span style="font-style:italic;">were winning</span>, Kevin Gregg lost.<br /><br />The fucking Mariners. When you blow a save to a team that has Mike Sweeney as a clean-up hitter, well, let's just say you are buying the beers for the foreseeable future.<br /><br />How long does it take me to forget Gregg as the the AL leader in saves? <br /><br />One game.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Jays 3, Mariners 2</span><br /><br />I know this is a game we won, but I'm still not sure who the POG goes to. Cecil was OK, Loverbay went 2 for 4, but had 2 KO. Call it a tie?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Good Luck To Ruiz</span><br /><br />AA obviously gets his advice from The View, and even <a href="http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100519&content_id=10215942¬ebook_id=10215946&vkey=notebook_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor">one upped me</a>. Ruiz was released and signed to a Japanese team.<br /><br />Good luck, Randy.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-52382090588378331602010-05-18T22:12:00.000-07:002010-05-18T22:31:46.792-07:00The Troubles of Randy Ruiz<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://raleighfencecontractors.com/images/behind_bars_xsmall.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 405px; height: 296px;" src="http://raleighfencecontractors.com/images/behind_bars_xsmall.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />When Randy Ruiz broke Spring Training with the team, I rejoiced, as many other Jays fans did.<br /><br />Today, I stand here a broken man, almost begging for a demotion for Ruiz to AAA.<br /><br />Ruiz came north with the team as a 33 year old, the first time he had ever broken Spring Training with a MLB job - I spare you the rest as I'm sure you have heard it before.<br /><br />After the chains of Minor League ball were removed from Randy, and he finally thought he would get some serious time at the Major League level, Cito Gaston happened.<br /><br />Ruiz knew he would be a bench player. But who knows, maybe an injury here, or an under-achiever there and he could take the job, and flourish. Enter Loverbay. Overbay is still struggling to find his bat, and his defense has not been as stellar as it should be.<br /><br />And still, Ruiz rides the pine.<br /><br />Ruiz is a slugger through and through. Sluggers don't ride the pine, especially not those that can DH and stand at first base.<br /><br />Ruiz is not succeeding with the Jays because he doesn't get enough playing time, and is moved around in the lineup more than V-Dub last year.<br /><br />So, AA, please. Send him down to AAA. Let him swing there, get his timing, rack up the numbers we all know hes capable of, and trade him. Trade him to someone who can use him. Someone who can use him full time, and let him get one season of 30 HR season before he is too old to swing. God knows he has nothing left to prove at the AAA level, but any numbers he gets there will look better than what he has now.<br /><br />Randy, my heart truly feels for you. You manage to make the team, Overbay still struggles, and yet you still don't play.<br /><br />I sincerely hope you get a full time chance in the Majors, but I feel that time will never come with Cito at the helm. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Minnesota Split</span><br /><br />Marcum and Wells take the POGs for these two games. One was awesome, one was shit.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-8576442319121505302010-05-17T12:09:00.000-07:002010-05-17T13:04:41.720-07:00False Hope Once Again??I am a virgin to the blogging world, so bear with me on my first ever post. Now that the Canucks have once again been eliminated from the playoffs in disappointing fashion, I can fully appreciate the over-achieving Blue Jays who remain in third place in the toughest division in all of sports.<br /><br />While the Jays are all but destined to fall back into mediocrity as they have in years past following a quick start, there is reason to believe that these Jays who begin a new Doc-less era are a little bit different.<br /><br />The Jays began season 1 A.D. (after Doc) without a legitimate staff ace, or a veteran presence in the rotation (unless you count Tallet.) However, this has caused pitchers such as Marcum to grow up quickly and take on the roll of teacher rather than student, which was never more evident than after hearing the news that Marcum actually helped <a href="http://http://sabl2009.baseball.cbssports.com/players/playerpage/1200838/brandon-morrow">tweak</a> Morrow's delivery following his disastrous start at Fenway. This advice from Marcum at the very least gave Morrow the confidence that there was only just a miniscule problem with his inconsistent delivery and shows the camaraderie between the starters.<br /><br />Often overlooked in reasons for the Jays success is their fielding. In fact, out of all the American League teams the Jays as of May 17, have the most TFC (Total Fielding Chances) with 1508 - yet hold the third LEAST errors. Furthermore, the under-rated Gonzo, Hill combination has helped the Jays surrender 43 Double Plays, good enough for the second most in the AL. Now that is how you help out a pitching staff that includes Dana Eveland, who holds no real skill yet somehow has managed a 3-2 record despite walking more batters than striking out. The Jays rotation also deserves some credit, along with the 'deadly' catching duo of John Buck and Jose Molina, who have allowed only 23 SB's this season and have thrown out over half that many. To compare, the Red Sox have allowed 46 SB's, while throwing out only 10 - so much for the acquisition of Victor Martinez, defensive catchers are highly under-appreciated, especially if they provide some unexpected pop ie John Buck. This is a nice change from consistently watching AJ Burnett willingly give up 2nd base to everyone he walked to put on first.<br /><br />At the risk of being a stat nerd I am gonna whip out a few more numbers which help decipher just why the Jays are having so much success, despite boasting a .238 average, and without having a hitter above .300. Its easy to look at the 60 home runs and 102 doubles, which is unbelievable, but also note the 5 CS, and only 20 GIDP. The Jays simply do not give away outs. (Say what you will about their ridiculous strikeout rates, I still say that they are not as big a deal as everyone makes them out to be for both pitchers and hitters alike)<br /><br />The 2010 Jays are also different because in years past their stats have been skewed by high averages, but no clutch performances. This year is the opposite and it is so much less frustrating to watch. It seems that every series, one or two guys come through in the clutch (see Bautista this past weekend, Snider against Boston, etc) Its not so much how many hits you get, but when you get them, and the Jays low LOB totals display exactly the clutch hitting that every competitive team needs to remain in the hunt well into the summer.<br /><br />I know its still early, but there is a lot to like with the 2010 Jays so far, let us hope that the Red Sox continue to struggle, and the Yankees start to spend their ridiculously high contracts on hookers and blow - thus distracting them from their on field duties, to give the Jays a fighting chance for the ENTIRE season.Marco21http://www.blogger.com/profile/00876753762094824430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-4571331000800843092010-05-17T08:52:00.001-07:002010-05-17T09:18:54.853-07:00The Texas Series in a Flash<span style="font-weight:bold;">Blue Jays 16, Rangers 10, Friday's Game</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://foodcourtlunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/overbay.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 115px; height: 175px;" src="http://foodcourtlunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/overbay.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Cecil and Harden disappointed as a potentially awesome match-up by neither lasting over 3 and both giving up way too many runs.<br /><br />As the score would suggest, this was SlugFest 2010. Lyle Overbay had his best game to date this season, going 3 for 3, with 2 runs, 3 RBI, 2 BB, <span style="font-style:italic;">no</span> strikeouts, and <span style="font-style:italic;">no</span> runners left on base. <br /><br />Congrats Loverbay on your POG!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Blue Jays 6, Rangers 0, Saturday's Game</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bluejays.gearupforsports.com/blog/files/2010/02/Ricky-Romero1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 339px; height: 500px;" src="http://bluejays.gearupforsports.com/blog/files/2010/02/Ricky-Romero1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Ricky Romero did his best Roy Halladay throwing a complete game shut out with 12 K (and only 1 walk!!!!) beating the Rangers. For another slick performance Rick gets another POG.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Blue Jays 5, Rangers 2, Sunday's Game</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/static.panoramio.com/photos/original/688640.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 480px;" src="http://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/static.panoramio.com/photos/original/688640.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />And the sweep is completed!<br /><br />I know a little unorthodox but my POG is a three-way tie. Gregg, Downs, and Frasor all pitched scoreless innings surrendering only 1 hit with no walks.<br /><br />That my friend, is what is expected of those three. Good job.<br /><br />So the bullpen performance coupled with no one really hitting for the Jays, and Morrow being, well okay but not crazy good, the bullpen was the star of this game.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Jays Quietly in Third, 2 Games Out of Wildcard</span><br /><br />Okay, I suppose it's still a little early to start the playoff expectations, but the Jays are quietly sitting in third place, 7 games above .500. <br /><br />True, we were better last year and fell apart pretty quickly. I don't see how anyone can say that kind of epic fall apart is common for one team, yet alone common in baseball, or really any sport. I'm not saying we stay on pace to be way above .500, but so far, this rebuilding process has been okay.<br /><br />While our rotation may not have as much experience as every other team, they are looking pretty stellar. Outside of Eveland and Tallet, our pitching has shown a ton, and look to be solid MLB starters.<br /><br />The hitting is harder to get too excited about because most of the players in the lineup are not expected to be in Toronto's long term plans. Lind, Hill, Wells and Snider will unquestionably be around for awhile, but everyone else just seems to be inflating their stats to earn more than they should next year.<br /><br />Anyways, I will stick by my predicted 4th place finish. Finishing 5th is going to be a disappointment regardless of a re-building year or not. Best place finish is 3rd, which would be sweet, but let's stay grounded.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-29342317272836068242010-05-12T16:25:00.000-07:002010-05-12T16:35:11.915-07:00Jays Finally Solve the Riddle that is the Red Sox<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.foxsports.com/fe/images/MLB/Headshots/140x170/7661.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 170px;" src="http://static.foxsports.com/fe/images/MLB/Headshots/140x170/7661.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Er... Sorry, *Marcum and Snider* Solve the Riddle that is the Red Sox.<br /><br />Marcum gets the POG award today for pitching lights out against the Red Sox. The zeros he put up over the 7 innings are impressive, but after watching Morrow and Eveland pitch like crossing guards, how nice is it to see a starter only give up 1 walk? <br /><br />Very. That's how nice. <br /><br />Hitters pretty much did fuck all, except for T-Snides, who is quietly and slowly raising his average, and general level of his at bats.<br /><br />Beyond those two? Well, the hitters didn't really hit, and Kevin Gregg and the ump managed to save the game, albeit barely. <br /><br />That strike on David Ortiz? Shit, I hate this guy more than I hate Youkilis, but that ump should get half a save for that call.<br /><br />Anyone else hoping Gregg didn't start the season on a hot note and is starting to cool off? He started out amazing, and has slowly worked his way to slightly-scary.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-32283903391742083032010-05-11T20:54:00.000-07:002010-05-11T21:29:53.300-07:00Eveland Waits to be Released, R-Zep Waits to get HealthyDana Eveland is probably not a bad human being.<br /><br />That be said, he has little place in Major League Baseball, not to mention the uber-talented AL East.<br /><br />Eveland may be a guy that could be a 5th start for San Diego or maybe even the Indians but <span style="font-style:italic;">not</span> the Blue Jays. <br /><br />In his starts this year, he has pitched well against the Royals, Orioles, White Sox, and arguably the Athletics (6.2 IP, 4 ER). <br /><br />Against a good team?<br /><br />Boston? 7 IP, 7 BB, 14 H and 13 ER.<br /><br />For a guy who has not part of the future, no part of the present (at least not after R-Zep is healthy, or perhaps even Tallet), he has got to be getting worried.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Jays, Like Eveland, Have No Problem Beating Shitty Teams</span><br /><br />Well we haven't played the Yankees, we have played the Red Sox and Rays and got dumbied.<br /><br />Tonight's POG is Fred Lewis.<br /><br />Last night's game's POG goes to JoBau.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-25095032203189688742010-05-09T20:59:00.000-07:002010-05-09T21:39:42.602-07:00The View: Weekend Edition<span style="font-weight:bold;">Jays Take Series, Improve to 19-14, V-Dub the Man Once Again</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.thestevenetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/vernon-wells-nc.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 325px; height: 480px;" src="http://www.thestevenetwork.ca/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/vernon-wells-nc.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Today's POG is Wells. He had over a quarter of the team's hits, had over a fifth the teams runs and RBIs, and did not strike out once. <br /><br />Romero had a bad outing, but still managed 7 strikeouts, but a ridiculous 5 walks in 5.2 innings is simply garbage. I mean the 8 hits aren't great either, but 5 walks? A walk an inning? Recipe for trouble.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Freddy Lewis Makes Momma Proud</span><br /><br />Fred Lewis has become an offensive rock and defensive bonus surprisingly quietly. His average is hovering around .300 and he is allowing Jays fans to take a big sigh of relief that we will never, ever, see JoBau in the lead off spot.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Falling Out Of First a Good Thing</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bahava.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/298649052_2b17d5bec9.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 462px;" src="http://bahava.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/298649052_2b17d5bec9.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Bad news everyone, we are no longer first in the MLB... <br /><br />In strikeouts. <br /><br />The Arizona D'Backs have taken the lead for strikeouts with 289, edging the Jays out by 7. So with a good game, we can have the lead back tomorrow!<br /><br />While we are no longer numero uno in the league, we are however first in the AL by 42. Now I'm not saying we should sit back now that we have a solid lead, but that's a pretty good lead.<br /><br />The Jays this year are striking out at an exponential rate, and tonight was no exception - 11 hits, 11 strikeouts. <br /><br />Some of you may be <span style="font-style:italic;">that guy</span> that always proclaims "Even if I strike out 9 out of 10 times at the bar, it's the one time I get a girl that I'll be remembered for."<br /><br />Well... yeah I guess in a kind of sad way that really applies to the 2010 Jays. Yeah they strikeout a shit tonne, but that one time they don't, uh-oh. Home run.<br /><br />Or at least a double.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Saturday's Recap</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media3.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/photo/2010/05/09/PH2010050902418.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 228px; height: 230px;" src="http://media3.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/photo/2010/05/09/PH2010050902418.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />Cecil wasn't great, but kept us in the game until Roenicke pulled a Frasor.<br /><br />Not of a log of greatness, or goodness for that matter, to be said about this game, but Freddy Lewis gets his first POG award for getting on base, and not striking out.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-38268429862455825242010-05-08T08:47:00.000-07:002010-05-08T09:16:32.302-07:00What a Game!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://a123.g.akamai.net/f/123/12465/1d/www.nationalpost.com/sports/3001341.bin?size=404x272"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 404px; height: 272px;" src="http://a123.g.akamai.net/f/123/12465/1d/www.nationalpost.com/sports/3001341.bin?size=404x272" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Wow.<br /><br />Of all the games to miss because of a long Friday work day. The hockey game was on as well, but I didn't miss a damn thing there, but wow, I am really upset I missed this one!<br /><br />After going over the boxscore, I was curious as to why a 2 for 3 Ruiz (with no strikeouts) was subbed out for an Adam Lind that hasn't exactly been on a tear lately, only to strike out 3 times? I know it's really easy for me to sit here and look at the boxscore and say it was dumb to sub in a guy who will strike out three times, but it's not like Ruiz wasn't hitting? I'm still a little confused on that one, did Ruiz try to catch another ball with his teeth or somethin'?<br /><br />This game was absolutely filled with solid performances, Buck, Marcum, Gonzalez, Downs, Snider and even Wells.<br /><br />Some not so stunning performances by Hill, Lind and Gregg.<br /><br />So for our player of the game we have a slight problem. Marcum is deserved, but it would not have been a win if not for Gonzalez, even though 1 for 6 wasn't great. So for that, I will call it a push between Marcum and Gonzalez.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">What Goes Up, Must Come Down</span><br /><br />While the Jays continue to play longball, their HR totals are going up and up. Wells, 8, Gonzalez 9, and Buck 7 to name the top three, and Hill hasn't even hit his second yet. <br /><br />In their new all-or-nothing batting mentality they basically hit a HR or double or strikeout, and as a result, their HR totals keep moving up, and their averages continue to plummet. With the exception of Wells who has hit all year, and Lewis whose average is going up (OK and Travis Snider - I still don't want to jinx it!!!) the Jays have some ugly, ugly averages. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Eveland </span><br /><br />I missed an entry of Eveland's last game, of which he gets the POG. <br /><br />Dana is doing his best to frustrate viewers by pitching like a monster (see first 2 starts and latest start) and then pitch like a everyday Joe throwing up meatballs all game (see every other game).Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-37560613241313146392010-05-05T17:08:00.000-07:002010-05-05T17:22:20.552-07:00It Ain't Over 'Till Lindy Says It's Over!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.scout.com/Media/Image/31/318845.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 220px; height: 230px;" src="http://media.scout.com/Media/Image/31/318845.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />With pure determination on his face, Adam Lind stepped into the batter's box in the 9th inning, and promptly knocked a 2-run off-field home run to take the lead by one.<br /><br />The one run lead was surprisingly enough for Frasor not to blow it, helping him to even his record at 1-1.<br /><br />The 24 LOB were pretty freaking ugly, but beyond that it was a pretty decent game offensively. For example, 11 hits were sweet and having 4 walks and only 5 strikeouts was nice. <br /><br />The pitching being shown early this year for the Jays gives some hope of a potential 3rd place finish? I'm not willing to suggest that at this point, but if the offense can keep hitting and not striking out, what's to stop them from finishing ahead of the aging and struggling Red Sox?<br /><br />That being said, Cito should make Loeverbay contribute $1,000 to the Jays Care Foundation every time he hits into a fucking double play. Frustrating!!!<br /><br />5.1 innings for Morrow with 9 strikeouts and a disappointing 3 ER. I suppose not horrible, but consider that 2 of the runs scored were from runners put on by a walk, and a hit batter. <br /><br />If Morrow can ever learn to have a little better control, and that is a big if, he could be a steal from the Mariners. He also seems to struggle in the startings of things, IE: start of a game, start of an inning. <br /><br />But <span style="font-style:italic;">man</span> can that guy throw.<br /><br />Player of the Game is Lind for breaking out of his mini-funk in a big way and for just generally being awesome.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-44786429514239279022010-05-04T21:12:00.000-07:002010-05-04T21:23:54.360-07:00Romero Shows Signs of Being Human, Snider on Mini-Tear<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://stevejays.mlblogs.com/travis-snider.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 410px;" src="http://stevejays.mlblogs.com/travis-snider.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />Tonight Romero proved he is indeed human. 5 runs over 6 innings, albeit with 9 punchouts, was not that great of an outing and this inflated his ERA to a whopping 3.00. Nice to see his offense pick him up a win after wasting some of his previous starts.<br /><br />I hate to say this, as I do not want to be a jinx, but T-Snides is on a mini-tear right now. He has been hitting the ball hard, and against today he had a 2-out RBI, and scored two runs. For that performance, and to keep his self-esteem high, he is awarded today's POG.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-43348065255579328472010-05-04T09:43:00.000-07:002010-05-04T10:04:39.778-07:00Cecil Fans 10 Over 8<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_1R-X6xOuHwo/SpSI20eqo9I/AAAAAAAAG7A/JXfSQK90FQc/s400/Toronto+Blue+Jays+pitcher+Brett+Cecil+Tampa+Bay+Rays++MLB+American+League+baseball+game+in+Toronto.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 281px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_1R-X6xOuHwo/SpSI20eqo9I/AAAAAAAAG7A/JXfSQK90FQc/s400/Toronto+Blue+Jays+pitcher+Brett+Cecil+Tampa+Bay+Rays++MLB+American+League+baseball+game+in+Toronto.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Brett Cecil is looking good. Tabler and Martinez both say he has a new found confidence, feeling comfortable enough to throw any pitch in any count. I agree. Obviously so do the Cleveland Indians.<br /><br />The Indians struck out 10 times in 8 innings of Cecil, and managed one hit, and only scored one because of two consecutive walks. <br /><br />So, yeah, Cecil is looking damn good.<br /><br />And for that, Cecil is awarded another POG award.<br /><br />The hitters. Well they do what they have done all year. Hit doubles and homeruns with a dash of singles. 3 long balls, 1 double, 4 singles for 8 hits.<br /><br />Speaking of the hitters, one has to like the way Snider hit the ball yesterday. <br /><br />I don't think there can be much denying what Cito said said in Spring Training. You know, the Jays have 7 guys that can hit 20 homeruns? Well yeah. They probably do. Wells, Hill, Lind, JoBau, Snider, Buck, and Gonzalez seem like they will, and Overbay could if he ever gets hit shit together.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Questions of the Day</span><br /><br />Considering the way Cecil is pitching, and the way Eveland pitches (or doesn't pitch), what does it mean when Tallet comes back?<br /><br />The most logic solution is to say goodbye to Eveland, and give Tallet a rotation spot. That being said, there has been some turnover in the bullpen and maybe Tallet will provide another lefty arm? <br /><br />Similarly, what does it mean for Randy Ruiz and Mike McCoy when EE is back?<br /><br />Being frank, I don't think McCoy will be sent down because Cito seems to appreciate his speed and defense capabilities. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of Ruiz.<br /><br />As much as I want to love Ruiz, and as much as I want him to crush 40, what team has a primarily DH on your bench? I mean, you can put him at first, but he's not the slickest fielder you ever did see.<br /><br />A little random maybe, but I was thinking the other day.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-46647893431714522542010-05-02T19:06:00.000-07:002010-05-02T19:24:14.703-07:00It's Good To Be Back<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://leakyorange.files.wordpress.com/2006/09/im-back-baby.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 287px; height: 425px;" src="http://leakyorange.files.wordpress.com/2006/09/im-back-baby.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Sorry to be so long in between posts, my week of cleaning, packing, moving, and unpacking has finally ended. Now, in a nice short blog, I will catch up with my POGs only. Be back tomorrow with a real blog!<br /><br />Red Sox 2, Blue Jays 1 - POG is Marcum<br />Red Sox 2, Blue Jays 0 - POG is Cecil<br />Blue Jays 6, Athletics 3 - POG is Buck<br />Blue Jays 10, Athletics 2 - POG is Morrow<br />Athletics 4, Blue Jays 3 - POG is Freddy Lewis<br />Blue Jays 9, Athletics 3 - POG is Marcum<br /><br />Again apologies about the delay.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-40425652749917614072010-04-26T22:13:00.000-07:002010-04-26T22:50:27.221-07:00Eveland Comes Back To Reality With A Crash<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://blogbadly.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/explosion.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 380px; height: 367px;" src="http://blogbadly.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/explosion.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Dana Eveland lived up, er, down to our expectations tonight and showed us that, no, his sparkling ERA would not last. 7 ER over 3 innings will not do it. <br /><br />We lost to my least favorite, no, most despised team in the league, but there are some pluses we can take out of this!<br /><br />The Jays had 16 hits, and half were singles. My god, I have never been so happy to see the singles coming! I mean, yes, it was a game that also saw 8 extra base hits, but what the hay, we lost, but we hit. Also, Lyle Overbay gets his first POG award for <span style="font-style:italic;">finally</span> having a good game! 3 for 5, with 2 runs, 4 RBI, and perhaps more importantly only 1 strikout. Yay.<br /><br />Now, the bad.<br /><br />One could read and deduct that if we got 16 hits, 8 for extra bases, and lost, the bad must be the pitching. Well, yes you are correct, but let's look for something shinny in this steaming pile of crap!<br /><br />There's one! There's another!<br /><br />Downs had a solid outing! 1 inning, 2 strikeouts, and zeroes across everything else.<br /><br />Kevin "Chacin" Gregg had another solid outing. To this point and date, including today which cancels out Camp, Gregg has hands down been the best reliever thus far. Imagine that mid-offseason.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Jeff Blair Has Never Heard of You</span><br /><br />Jeff Blair of the Globe and Mail had an article about Jays hats being a top 3 seller in New York that I posted on a couple days back. Now I know that there is one reader because they asked if it was true.<br /><br />Well, not I was not lying, and found it after looking a little harder. It was hiding <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/style/play-ball-blue-jays-caps-a-surprise-hit-in-ny/article1540804/">here</a>.<br /><br />Well, Mr. Blair, here are my issues:<br /><br />Are you going to seriously tell me that the Blue Jays have a "no-name roster?" Even if you are going to tell me V-Dub sucks, <span style="font-style:italic;">everyone</span> has heard of his 3 years of JD Drewness. Aaron Hill and Adam Lind, who are Silver Slugger winners are not no-namers. What ever team you cheer for, if you are even a baseball fan, would welcome those two. So, no-name? No. <br /><br />"Marketers are aware of the importance of “hook-ups” - matching the colours of one piece of sportswear with another." Holy fucking shit, whoever thought to match the colours of the things you are wearing? No more pick shirts and yellow pants with my Jays lid, I'm going to hook-up!<br /><br />“The phenomenon of hook-ups is very much in play in Canada,” Blair says. So, matching the colours of what you are wearing is a phenomenon now?<br /><br />Jesus.<br /><br />Find something real to write on, sport or fashion, preferably fashion.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-66889373230063909732010-04-26T10:56:00.000-07:002010-04-26T11:21:41.194-07:00Monday Morning Thoughts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UZCzTOnTFFZfqMu4dCbMBYhmKwi9UnRBFK8FW9ZNtuopTZirdzs7FP752e3ojCvh-e9wBh1pZx2r8CeJyDjzygs4IAHNpKBufDZud1aTs0P4xMeFd_QXm_DrzAcDRjt0PU0YyuU5hNDW/s1600/hioserhoisr.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 352px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UZCzTOnTFFZfqMu4dCbMBYhmKwi9UnRBFK8FW9ZNtuopTZirdzs7FP752e3ojCvh-e9wBh1pZx2r8CeJyDjzygs4IAHNpKBufDZud1aTs0P4xMeFd_QXm_DrzAcDRjt0PU0YyuU5hNDW/s400/hioserhoisr.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464513026332527106" /></a><br /><br /><br />Some things to ponder this Monday morning.<br /><br />Blue Jays Offensive Ranking.<br /><br />AB.... 13th (638)<br />H..... 26th (148)<br />D..... 1st (52)<br />HR.... 1st (26)<br />RBI... 18th (78)<br />AVG... 28th (.223)<br />OBP... 29th (.297)<br />SLG... 12th (.429)<br />SO.... 1st (166)<br /><br />Blue Jays Pitching Rankings<br /><br />ERA... 17th (4.31)<br />W..... 14th (10)<br />SV.... 2nd (8)<br />SVO... 3rd (11)<br />H..... 20th (153)<br />SO.... 8th (138)<br />BB.... 19th (61)<br />IP.... 10th (171.1)<br /><br />Analysis:<br /><br />While our pitching has been up and down at certain times, the overall success of our pitching staff has been solid, at least average-above average in baseball.<br /><br />Hitting however, well there are two things we very clearly excel at - striking out, and hitting extra base hits, sans triples.<br /><br />Here's to hoping we can see some singles tonight against Beckett and the 8-11 Red Sox.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-41717014716760028522010-04-25T14:12:00.001-07:002010-04-25T14:53:23.536-07:00The Weekend EditionStarting with Sunday's game and going back to cover Friday's game.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Frasor's Steve Irwin Impression</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2006/10/irwin271006_228x375.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 228px; height: 375px;" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2006/10/irwin271006_228x375.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Morrow was pretty good again today. Would have been a great outing if not for one glaring issue - walks. The thing about walks is they are like shots of tequila, not every one is going to ruin your day, but one at the wrong time will leave you fucked. <br /><br />Okay, so two runs over 6 innings isn't that bad, and perhaps the Jays could have gotten around to scoring some runs, but even if the Jays had managed a homerun, Frasor got absolutely killed by the Rays (get it? too soon, or is that okay?). Frasor has a <span style="font-style:italic;">very</span> disappointing ERA at this time, a whopping 9.35 after allowing 4 runs in 0.2 innings pitched.<br /><br />The Jays at the plate failed to do much better than Frasor. This offense can at times be like watching paint dry and today was one of those days. <br /><br />Which was weird, because Loverbay was on the pine.<br /><br />As for player of the game... Morrow? I guess? <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Slick Rick Still Slick</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://dreysay.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/slick-rick.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://dreysay.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/slick-rick.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Ricky Romero, our POG for Satuday's game had another gem ruined by the Jays batter <span style="font-style:italic;">and</span> bullpen. Downs (WTF?) and Janssen got knocked around, and have been assigned bitch duty to Romero for a week.<br /><br />Hitters did bup-kiss again. Loverbay homerun, but I'm not sure I really care that much.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Welcome Back Aaron Hill!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://eatsleepmoneyball.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/hill.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 392px; height: 230px;" src="http://eatsleepmoneyball.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/hill.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Aaron Hill hit his first longball of the season on his first game back from a DL stint. Brett Cecil made his 2010 debut and had a pretty solid outing if not for one pitch in the seventh that Kapler took deep for 2 runs. God damn Dave Kapler of all people. I mean, all the people in the lineup that are awesome and he's the one to do it. Damn.<br /><br />The bullpen decided to play "blow-the-lead," their favorite game this series, but thankfully Frasor only gave up one. Kevin "Gustavo Chacin" Gregg bailed him out, and after all the hate for Gregg, he gets my kudos.<br /><br />However, my player of the game is Brett Cecil. 6.2 innings with 4 ER is not really good, but his 8 punchouts and 1 walk is terrific. And I'm giving him the mulligan of the Kapler HR, so his line actually reads 6.2, 2 ER, 8 K, and 1 BB. Well done Bretty Boy!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">This Just In.. A-Roid Proves His Douchebagery Again</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/214/496701197_31c264c8c2.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/214/496701197_31c264c8c2.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Don't know if anyone else saw the little happening between Dallas Braden (Oakland SP) and A-Roid. A-Roid walked across the mound after making an out, and Braden took exception.<br /><br />It's no rule, so I guess A-Roid can fall back on that, but it's called being a professional, and a good sport. I mean, that little trick he pulled on Howie Clark a couple years back isn't technically illegal, but why doesn't anyone else do it? Cause it's a greaseball play.<br /><br />So, for that Mr. Dallas, you receive a shout out from The View. Congratulations.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5912104515751813541.post-6535527019772686212010-04-24T16:11:00.000-07:002010-04-24T16:12:34.552-07:00BREAKING NEWSJAYS @ RAYS<br /><br />Loverbay just hit a homerun.Rhyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08417438793071736239noreply@blogger.com0