Results tagged ‘ cardinals ’
Rob Dibble: To female fans “There’s no talking in baseball!”
I’m sure by now, everyone has heard about what a big idiot Rob Dibble (Washington Nationals’ Analyst) is. If you didn’t hear about what he said about “Female Fans” here is exactly what he said on-air during the Nationals vs Marlins game on August 12th.
Those ladies right behind there, they haven’t stopped talking the whole game,” Rob Dibble said in the sixth inning of Wednesday night’s Nats broadcast. “They have some conversation going on. Right here,” he said, circling the offenders. “There must be a sale tomorrow going on here or something….Their husbands are going man, don’t bring your wife next time.”
“All right Bob, now they’re back there, they’re eating ice cream and talking at the same time,” Dibble noted in the top of the eighth.
“I just got an e-mail that said there’s a lot of women who come to the games — while their husbands are the ones at home — because they love this game,” Carpenter noted, briefly touching base with the 21st century. “Tread carefully, Mr. Dibble.”
“My wife loves to come to the game, but they’re right there, still talking,” Dibble countered.
This. Makes. Me. So. Angry!
After outrage from female fans and females that work in the business, Dibble did “apologize” saying this:
My mother was and continues to be my biggest fan. She has been there since I was eight years old playing Little League in Southington, Connecticut, shouting encouragement from the stands.
I’ll never forget 20 years ago during the NCLS; I thought I was on the top of my game, having played in my first All-Star game earlier that summer. But my mom said to me, “Rob you’ve got a good arsenal, but you still need a strikeout pitch.”
Mom was right, of course, and she remains as insightful a student of the game as I have ever known.
Likewise, my wife not only comes to every Nats game, but also scores every pitch, and genuinely feels it when her team makes an error or loses the game.
My 21-year-old daughter, who against my wishes, wears her Coco Crisp Red Sox Jersey to Yankee Stadium, does it to show pride and respect for her team.
That’s the great thing about baseball. No matter who you are or where you’re from, you can – and should – have a passion for the game and for the celebration of the game by its legions of fans in the stands. Those are the values I learned in Southington, and they are part of who I am today.
The game of baseball transcends race, sex, ethnicity, and economic status. Everyone can be a fan of this game and that’s why it remains our national pastime.
As a former player and a current broadcaster, I love baseball. Encouraging new fans and building upon our audience is essential to the future of the game. That’s why I host a national baseball radio show five days a week.
And it’s why I volunteer my time at various clinics and seminars throughout the year, to help bring baseball into the lives of new fans.
The other night I made an off-handed comment, the meaning of which may have been misconstrued beyond what was said. If any fan of this great game took offense, then he or she should know that this was neither my intention nor my history in the game.
I have had the privilege of knowing a great many fans of all backgrounds who are students of the game. Many of baseball’s most insightful fans, television viewers, and callers to my radio show are women.
And just like my mom in 1990, they know what they’re talking about.
I can’t help but bring this issue up and put my two sense in. Guys just don’t understand the issue woman have in the sports world. I have been a sports gal my whole entire life. Growing up I played softball and soccer year round. I also tried other sports but failed. (Gymnastics, Tennis, Track, Volleyball, etc.)
More importantly, I have LOVED watching Baseball, (my passion) football, hockey, soccer, tennis, golf. You name it, I watch it. Nothing compares to my love and passion for the game of baseball though. The most frustrating thing is that Rob Dibble said what most guys think. I know there are some guys out there that respect women in the industry. But sadly, a lot don’t.
I have a season ticket to the Pirates. I have only missed a handfull of games this season. I go early and watch both teams take batting pratice and warm-up. Out of 162 games, I’m at 150 of them. (That’s not even including road trips to other stadiums) I go to the game by myself. Most of my friends don’t really love baseball the way I do and to be honest I hate more than anything sitting next to someone who is talking and playing on their phone and not paying attention to the game. If I didn’t love this game, why on earth would I spend and arm and a leg for my seat? Why would I make it to at least 150 games a year? Why would I go to games alone if I didn’t understand the game of baseball?
It never fails, every game I get asked at least once what player I’m dating. Okay, maybe I get it a little. I sit a few rows behind the Pirates dugout, I’m alone, I’m a girl. And don’t get me wrong, it’s a compliment to be considered a ”baseball wife” but I’m not! Nor would I ever be! (No offense to the players.) Why can’t I just be a baseball fan, watching the game I love? I’m assumed to be either a wife/girlfriend or a Pro-Ho. (which I would never be either)
Normally, it’s men that ask the question. Then its followed by a few quiz style questions. ”Oh Yeah? Well, then who is the best hitter on the Padres? or, how long has Pedro been a Pirate? or, Who’s pitching against the Pirates tonight?” These are just a few of the questions I have to answer every single game. (Which I do, correctly. Then they feel like an idiot and I walk away.)
Then there are woman at games, that can be just as rude. (Aren’t we suppose to support each other?) Just because I’m an attractive girl doesn’t mean i’m going after your ballplayer or that I go to games just to try to snag one up. I know there are girls out there like that. Call me crazy but I want more out of my life than that.
To the women who are girlfriends, or wives. I hope to not have offended you. Some of the players are really great guys. Some of the ones I have gotten the oppurtunity to talk to and meet were really cool. And yes, I will admit that some of the players are very handsome and look very good in their uniform. But I’m not that kind of gal and I don’t want that kind of life. Some of the wives do great things with charity events and I have nothing but respect for that.
I just get so frustrated because I want to work in the industry. I want to be a part of this great, great game that I love. I hope that one day women like myself won’t be quizzed or assumed to be a girlfriend or a pro-ho.
Metsgrrl sums it up perfectly:
I wonder if Rob Dibble knows how many times women get looked at funny for keeping score. I wonder if Rob Dibble wonders how hard it is for female fans to have to continually defend their love of baseball as being about the game, and not about cute guys in tight uniforms. I wonder if Rob Dibble thought about what any teenage girls who were watching the game… and heard that. He just gave fuel to the fire of every sexist clod out there who thinks that women are dumb and can’t understand baseball and can’t possibly be at the game because they want to be. No one ever looks at a man and thinks “he must be here with his girlfriend”. It is hard enough to have a conversation with a guy at a game who assumes you are there because you are with a guy.
Here are some more comments:
Did you hear that, guys? Don’t bring your wife to baseball games! She might talk through the whole thing, which she probably doesn’t understand anyway, and like, spend all your money and stuff!
Thanks for the warning, Rob. It’s a good thing all the MALE corporate jerkoffs I see at Wrigley yakking on their Blackberries talk about nothing but OBP and the minor league draft, right? Hey, it’s a good thing they don’t let women work outside the home or drive cars or anything-imagine how much they’d have to talk about then.
Ultimately, though, I couldn’t ignore it. The fact is that this is my life. I am a woman who is a baseball fan. No, wait. I’m more than that. I am a woman who is a baseball writer. I’m a woman who is a baseball writer who runs the best and most successful Orioles blog on the internet. I am recognized by both local and out-of-town sports media as a knowledgeable source on the Baltimore Orioles.I am a woman who, if seated behind home plate at a Nationals game, would get circled by Rob Dibble and called out for gossiping about an upcoming sale while the men were trying to watch baseball.
Duke unravels in the 5th, Pirates take a beating and drop 4 straight
One inning, that’s all it took for Zach Duke’s outing to go from good to ugly. Duke was dealing through the first four innings. Battling arguably one of the NL’s best starting pitchers, Adam Wainwright. Duke was perfect for two innings and gave up his first hit in the third inning to Brendan Ryan.
The fifth was not pretty for Duke. Nine men came to the plate and five runs scored, including a two-run Home Run to Albert Pujols. (Pujols career against the pirates: .370 AVG, 41 HR, 123RBI in 147 games)
“I feel like I made one mistake in the inning and that was the home run to Pujols,” Duke said. “But other than that — two lob-wedge shots over the shortstop, a ground ball, perfect bunt. There’s not much I can do.”
Duke was done after five innings, giving up seven hits, six runs, one walk and one strikeout.
Obviously, the numbers don’t match up as well as I feel like I pitched,” Duke added. “It’s tough. I’m still going to take the positives from this outing and keep building on it.”
This seems like a trend for the Pirates. Does it not? The Starter pitching brillantly, then having one really bad inning that they can’t get out of? It seems to have occured quite often this season.
As if the game couldn’t get any worse, in came Steven Jackson for relief in the ninth. I hate to say it, but he is just not good. At all. He has been up in down over the years and his appearences just seem to get worse.
.
The ninth inning was not pretty at all. The first pitch he threw to Matt Holliday was a Solo Home Run. Nine more men came to the plate, three more runs scored.
The Pitching wasn’t the only culprit on the night. The Pirates had plenty of oppurtunities to score runs and they didn’t.
1st inning; Cutch and Tabata were left on base
5th inning; Cutch and JJ were left on base
8th inning; Tabata and Walker were left on base
I’m sure there were more scenarios on the night, those were just a few that I remember.
Can you really blame the Pirates, though honestly? They were facing the Cardinals. A really, really, really good team. There is a reason why they have a 23 game lead on them in the NL C.
Wainwright went seven innings, six hits, one run, five strike outs, zero walks. He improves to 15-6 on the season, 11-0 at home and lowered his ERA to just 2.19.
On to some positive notes. Jeff Clement is proving that doesn’t belong in Triple-A. In his two PH at bats, he has hit a HR and a Single. I’m glad to see he worked on some things in Indy. I hope he gets another chance to prove himself.
The Pirates have faced some pretty tough arms on this road trip. Jimenez, Wainwright and Carpenter. It hasn’t seemed to affect Jose Tabata who extended his hit streak to 12 games today.
I’m not surprised,” Tabata said of his string of success. “I trust myself.”
“He’s facing some pretty good pitching, too,” Russell said. “He’s a tough out when he has two strikes as well. That’s a good sign. He’s starting to really show some maturity in that area. He’s turning into a pretty tough out.”
- On Pirates Pre-Game Tim Neverett interviewed Jeff Clement, discussing what he has been working on in AAA and how the ump wouldn’t walk him even though he got hit by a pitch. And more.
Tim Neverett: “Jeff, It’s got to feel good to get back to the big leagues.I know you’ve worked very hard in Triple-A to get back here. Numbers were good there and those adjustments seem to pay off already.”
Jeff Clement: “Yeah, Obviously It’s just been one at bat but it went pretty well. Hopefully I”ll be able to build off of that and continue the last couple months, have some production and help the team win games.”
TN: “Let’s go back to the at bat a little bit. What did you see? It was a two strike pitch and frankly, you crushed it. You just hammered it deep to right center. What did you see? What were you expecting before he threw it and what did you see when he threw it?”
JC: “Well, he was throwing really hard. And I got up there and I swung at the first pitch. Swung right out of his hand, it was stupid. I was just expecting, you know, you got to be ready and after sitting for a whole game and just getting some swings off the tee and everything you dont know if your really game ready coming off the bench. I probally swung too soon and he had quite a bit of movement on his fastball. I thought, ”How do you throw 97 and have that much movement?” So, I swung through that one and he threw me a couple off speed pitches. Actually, the slider hit me on the back foot and just nicked my toe. And I know Tim McCelland, he’s from Iowa as well and I turned and I said “You probally wouldn’t believe me if that hit me on the back toe” And he said, “I believe you but I’m not sending you down to first base right now.” He’s like, “You want to hit anyway.” And i said “Yeah your right”. So, I swung through the next pitch and then he threw me one out over the plate and I was able to barrel up.”
TN: “Guys from Iowa don’t tell lies, do they?”
JC: [laughs] “No. He believed me obviously. It’s that midwest integrity that we have going. Like he said, he wasn’t going to send me to first and I didn’t blame him.”
TN: “A little better for you, the way it turned out. Again, it gave the team a little bit of a boost at that point in time in the game when you really needed one. It seemed like the Cardinals just kind of nickled and dimed, run here, run there. Then they opened it up in the eighth.”
JC: “Yeah, That’s why they are in first place. They know how to win games and they know how to string at bats together. I mean, I thought McCutchen threw the ball extremely well. He battled and gave us a chance. They just didn’t give us any easy outs. He made some great pitches that they took and then they fouled off some other tough pitches. You got to give them credit, that’s why they are a great team. But I thought McCutchen battled well and gave us a chance.”
TN: “Going down to Triple-A is never an easy thing when you’ve been in the big leagues but it gave you an oppurtunity to really work on your game. What are some of the specific adjustments you had to make in your swing? I think you told me yesterday, you were feeling a little mechanical the first time here and you changed that.”
JC: “Yeah, I think it was good to just go down there where it’s a little more stress free and get a chance to get at bats everyday. I think that’s a big deal. You’ve got to have rhythm and timing to hit and I don’t feel like I had that when I was here and it just progressively got worse actually in the time that I was here. I was obviously dissapointed to be sent down but it was a blessing in disguise. Just the chance to play everyday and continue to work on the things that I needed to, to be productive at this level. There are a few mechanical things that I changed, but not really much to do with mechanics but more to do with just timing and timing and takes care of a lot of different problems with your swing, that’s for sure.”
TN: “When you went to spring training you were at first base. I know you’ve worked defensively, you even had a little time catching at Triple-A. You went back behind the plate and you’ve seen some of the other guys that have come through Indianapolis this year. Walker, Tabata and Pedro Alvarez and Guys that are going to be here that looks like for the rest of the season. What do you make of this Pirates club moving forward, now that we’ve seen all the young guys, like yourself, moving in.”
JC: “Those three names that you mentioned have done incredibly well here. Walker, has been putting productive at bats up, every single time he’s up there and Tabata. We all know what Pedro can do. I think it’s exciting to see how young the team is and that they can compete at this level and it’s just a matter of wining. That’s it. That’s the name of the game. That’s why we’re here and learning how to win. It’s not easy, it’s the highest level you can play at but we’re all competitors and we’re all excited of the oppurtunity.”
Other News & Notes:
- The Pirates only scored two runs in 28 innings during the Cardinals three-game series.
- The Bucs have been heating up Mid Season:
Season July
WIN PCT .350 .360
AVG .241 .254
RUNS/GAME 3.5 4.3
HOME RUNS/GAME 0.7 0.9
XBH/GAME 2.5 2.9
ERA 5.02 4.60
OPP AVG .280 .271
ZACH DUKE 5.09 3.18
- The Month of July has been especially good for the young bucs:
Pedro Alvarez – .255 AVG, 7HR, 16 RBI, .521 SLG
Neil Walker – .319 AVG, 2 HR, 14 RBI, .462 SLG
Jose Tabata .248 AVG, 4 HR, 14 RBI, .426 SLG
Garrett Jones – .316 AVG, 1 HR, 11 RBI, .431 SLG
- Jose Tabata has a current 12 game hitting streak. In his last 19 games, .397/.440/.462 = .902 OPS
- Prospect Watch: Hitters:
Alex Presley .344 AVG, 10 HR, 63 RBI, 10 SB
Brandon Moss .267 AVG, 18 HR, 74 RBI, .482 SLG (Since June 1st: .291/.350/.582, 57 games, 14HR, 59RBI)
Pedro Ciriaco .259 AVG, 6 HR, 51 RBI, 14 SB
Andrew Lambo .271 AVG, 4 HR, 25 RBI, .420 SLG
Josh Harrison .300 AVG, 1 HR, 59 RBI, 27 2B
- Prospect Watch: Pitchers:
Joe Martinez 5-3, 3.32 ERA
Rudy Owens 8-6, 2.92 ERA, 1.06 WHIP
Justin Wilson 8-6, 3.06 ERA, .220 OPP AVG
Bryan Morris 7-4, 2.83 ERA, 103K/30BB
Jeff Locke 10-3, 3.21 ERA, 105K/18BB
- Ryan Doumit will leave on tomorow to join Triple-A Indy for a rehab assignment. He is eligible to come off the DL Friday.
- Some excerpts from GM Neal Huntington on his weekly radio show -BucsBits
- Charlie Morton tonight for AAA-Indy 6IP 2R 0ER 3H 2K 6BB (ND)
Ex Bucco Closer, Octavio Dotel in his Blue, alongside his other two new teamates, Ted Lilly and Ryan Theriot.
Ramblings
I had just a few things I wanted to post about before the Pirates game this afternoon.
- Now that the Trade Deadline is over, and I’ve had time to read about some of the new guys that we got, I must say Huntington did a very great job. Over the past few years management has given the lineup a house cleaning (similar to the Dbacks and Astros this year) and left fans upset. Talent aside, after watching players year after year you start to love them even if they are hitting below the Mendoza line. Never will you hear a bad thing come out my mouth about Huntington though. What he has done since he took over in 2007 has been unbelieveable and the Pirates are FINALLY on the right track. As sad as it is to see certain players go, its all for the better of the orgainzation and for the team to see winning again.
I’m just glad I didn’t have to use this picture, literally this year.
As sad I was to see Dotel, Lopez and Carrasco go, we really got some great talented guys back in return for the veteran guys. I’m excited about James McDonald and John Bowker. I used to live in Los Angeles, so I was pretty familiar with these two from watching the NL West so often.
McDonald, once stretched back into a starter has the potential to be a pretty good 4th or 5th guy for the Pirates.
Bowker has a lot of power and can play both first and the outfield. In 2008, with the Giants he hit .255 with 10 homers and 43 RBIs in 11 games. This year in AAA he was hitting .310 with 14 homers and 36 RBIs in 51 games. A nice left handed power bat is exactly what the Pirates need, and he could be the guy to do it.
“It’s a good bat that we wanted to add to the system,” Huntington said. “Brandon Moss has swung the bat very well, and we’ve added another quality left-handed-hitting outfielder that could fit on the club as an extra outfielder. But we also have scouting reports not too long ago that have John Bowker as a potential everyday player.”
Andrew Lambo has been a very highly regarded prospect the last few years with the Dodgers. He did miss 50 games earlier this year for testing positive for drug abuse. But no need to worry, it was just marijuna. (it’s okay, I’ll let that one slide.)
It will be very weird at the ballpark tomorow, without some of those guys, but we all know they weren’t part of the Pirates future. I do wish them all the best of luck. Especially Dotel, he was always smiling and I just loved his personality. So for one last time.. TickTickTick
Here are a few of the Pirates reactions to the trades:
“It’s very disappointing,” Meek said. “Geez, it’s frustrating. Again, it’s the business side of the game. All you can do is wish them the best and hope that they adapt and are happy with where they’re at. I’m going to miss them very much.”
“We had pride in our bullpen,” added Hanrahan. “We were a close-knit group. We felt that we were one of the best ones in the league in doing our job. It’s tough to see all the guys leave, and you lose a lot of experience, but, obviously, Neal has an idea of what he’s doing. We’ve got to continue to go out there and get people out.”
@Maholm28 Glad to still be in the burgh and thanks everyone for ur support. Looking forward to turning this around.
@Maholm28: Always sad to see a few more great guys leave but good luck to each of them.
- The Pirates re-called LHP Justin Thomas.
Today’s Pitching Matchup (PIT @ STL) 09/01/10
Zach Duke 5-9, 5.09 ERA
VS
Adam Wainwright 14-6, 2.23 ERA
Duke continues to look like a different pitcher since coming off the DL. In those last three starts, he has rediscovered his sinker and efficiency, and the confidence is building as a result. Duke said he feels as good now as he has all season.
Wainwright is coming off a rare iffy start, but he’s coming home, where he’s been dominant. Wainwright is 10-0 with a ridiculous 1.22 ERA at Busch Stadium. In his last five home starts, he’s pitched 35 1/3 innings and allowed one earned run.
Pirates Lineup:
McCutchen 8
Tabata 7
Walker 4
Jones 3
Alvarez 5
Milledge 9
Cedeno 6
Jaramillo 2
Duke 1
Live Pirates Trades Updates
4:16: @LangoschMLB: manager Russell says C Chris Snyder expected to join team on Monday in Pittsburgh
The Trade Deadline has offically ended, although more deals may pour through in th next little bit.
- The Pirates did trade LHP Javier Lopez to the Giants for RHP Joe Martinez and OF John Bowker.
- The Pirates traded Octavio Dotel to the Dodgers for James McDonald & Andrew Lambo
- @RobBiertempfel: Pirates milledge laughs and tells dotel in mock threatening tone: “I’ll see you next season”
3:45 @extrabaggs: CSN is reporting the Giants traded RHP Joe Martinez to the Pirates for LHP Javier Lopez
3:35: @Dejan_Kovacevic: Hearing Pirates might be on verge of trading LHP Javier Lopez.
3:27: @Dejan_Kovacevic: Pirates NOT expecting to trade Paul Maholm. Attention focused on Octavio Dotel, with several teams.
2:34: @jaysonst: Source says Pirates not sure they will get Octavio Dotel moved. Telling teams they’re fine w/ him as their closer this year & next.
2:20 PM: @LangoschMLB: With Ted Lilly to the Dodgers deal reportedly done, that would eliminate the Dodgers interest in Pirates LHP Paul Maholm
It’s offical: Pirates acquire SS Pedro Ciriaco, Chris Snyder & cash from D-backs 4 Ryan Church, Bobby Crosby & D.J. Carrasco.
- @LangoschMLB: Source says Pirates receiving $3 million from Dbacks in Snyder/Ciriaco – Church/Crosby/Carrasco trade
- Pirates recall infielders Argenis Diaz and Jeff Clement from Triple-A Indianapolis.
- Bucs also recall RHP Daniel McCutchen to start tonight.
- @Dejan_Kovacevic: Pirates GM, on Snyder: “quality catching option this year and next year … game-calling and receiving … will help our pitching staff.”
“Chris Snyder is a solid Major League player who will provide us with a quality catching option for this year and next year,” general manager Neal Huntington said. “He brings leadership to the club, along with a game calling and receiving ability that will help our pitching staff mature. Additionally he will add some home run power to our lineup.”
Tonight’s Starting Lineup 7/31 Pirates @ Cardinals:
Cardinals:
Lopez 5
Jay 9
Pujols 3
Holliday 7
Rasmus 8
Molina 2
Schumaker 4
Suppan 1
Ryan 6
Brillant Pitching Duels, Bucs lose in extras
Pirates lose in 10, 1-0.
Before the game even started, the odds were against the Pirates. Chris Carpenter was 11-1 with a 2.29 ERA lifetime against the Pirates. The last time he was beaten was way back on June 29, 2004, Sean Burnett was the winning pitcher. If that wasn’t enough, Albert Pujols has a career .369 AVG against the Buccos.
But these aren’t the same bucs we have seen all season long, they have been playing like a much different team since the All-Star Break.
Manager John Russell told the team before the game that the only way they had a chance to beat Carpenter was pitching and defense.
Both they did very well.
The pitching was brillant. Karstens rose to the task last night pitching six scoreless innings, giving up seven hits, striking out two, and walked none. He threw just 69 pitches, 50 for strikes. Evan Meek came into the game in the seventh inning, pitched two scoreless innings, walked just one batter.
Joel Hanrahan came in the ninth inning. He pitched a perfect ninth, striking out the sides. It should be noted that Hanrahan took over as the Pirates leader in strikeouts at 63 in just 45.2 IP, just nine less than what he racked up all of 2009. In an earlier post I talked about how Evan Meek was filthy and nasty, I think I may have to award Hanny with this as well as he has been disgusting all season long too.
Javier Lopez, his third straight day of relief came in to pitch in the 10th. Ryan Ludwick started with a lead-off hit, Yadier Molina bunted Ludwick to third, Brendan Ryan hit a grounder into the infield and Ludwick scored at home for the Wallk-off win.
That’s all it took. The Pirates lost 1-0. Talk about a heart breaking loss.
“The guys fought hard but just couldn’t find a way to get that run to put us over the top,” Russell said. “I was really proud of the way our guys played. They really got after it and just came up short.”
It’s unfortunate that the Pirates couldn’t give Karstens a win after pitching so well against Carpenter.
“I think the biggest thing tonight is that when they did get hits, they were singles,” Karstens said. “I just try and make the hitter’s aggressiveness work against them, be a little more aggressive than they normally would.”
The Buccos defense limited the Cardinals to just the one run. Together the team made some great plays, robbing the Cardinals of many hits and runs. Erik Kratz became the first Pirates catcher to throw out three base runners since Keith Osik on July 5, 1999. Jose Tabata made two spectacular sliding catches in left and Garrett Jones made a diving stop down the first base line to prevent and extra base inning in which the Cardinals had two on.
Chris Carpenter threw eight scoreless, giving up five hits, striking out six and walking three. He continues to own the Pirates, now lifetime 12-1, 2.12 ERA.
He threw the ball outstanding,” Russell said. “So did Jeff. It’s going to come down to that one play or one big hit, and they got it.”
It’s good that they see these guys,” Russell said regarding the rookies Pedro Alvarez, Jose Tabata and Walker facing a wealth of good pitching in this week’s span. “I’m sure in the minors they could watch guys like Carpenter and say, ‘Wow.’ Now, they’ve seen Jimenez, and they get to face these guys. You know it’s going to be a challenge, but it’s fun. I know when I faced Nolan Ryan, Roger Clemens, Dwight Gooden or J.R. Richard for the first time, you go to the plate and it’s, like, ‘Oh, no.’ “
The Pirates look to seek revenge against the Cardinals today.
Daniel McCutchen (1-4, 8.58 ERA)
VS
Jeff Suppan (0-4, 4.75 ERA)
McCutchen is expected to be re-called from Triple-A Indy to make the start tonight. It is his third start for the Buccos this season, his first since July 7th when he went five innings, giving up four hits, four runs, three homeruns, walking three, and striking out three.
Suppan’s start could be his last if he doesn’t perform well. He or Blake Hawksworth will be bumped from the starting rotation when Kyle Lohse comes off the DL from a forearm injury. In Jeff’s last outing he pitched six innings giving up 10 hits, five runs, three homeruns, walked three, and didn’t strike out a single batter.
Some other notes worth Noting:
- The Cardinals are 41-10 when they score first. The Pirates are just 10-46 when the Opposing team scores first.
- Yesterday was the first time since May 7, 2009 that the Pirates visted St Louis. It is the longest gap between two teams at one site in the same division since 1969.
- Ronny Cedeno leads the National League with the most doubles in July, hitting 10.
- Jose Tabata has a current 10-game hitting streak.
Pirates @ Cardinals 7/30, and other News
Cardinals Starting Lineup:
Lopez 3B
Jay RF
Pujols 1B
Holliday LF
Rasmus CF
Molina C
Ryan SS
Carpenter (11-3, 3.09) RHP
Schumaker 2B
Pirates Starting Lineup:
McCutchen CF
Tabata LF
Walker 2B
Jones 1B
Alvarez 3B
Milledge RF
Cedeno SS
Kratz C
Karstens (2-6, 4.72 ERA) LHP
Andrew McCutchen is back in the lineup tonight, after electing to sit out yesterday’s game in Colorado due to a sore right shoulder. (He missed six games last week with a sprained right ACJoint and re-aggravated it Tuesday)
- (Via Scott McCauley, Triple-A Indy’s Radio Broadcaster) Mitch Jones who was in Triple-A Gwinnett has been acquired by the Pirates for cash considerations. He will join Indy Indians in Norfolk.
Mitch Jones hit .250, 18HR, 45RBI in 89 games w/ Gwinnett -Braves. .292 OBP/.494SLG
In 2009 Jones played eight games with the Dodgers, .308 AVG, 4-for-13, 1 2B, 6K
- (Via Jenifer Langosh, Pirates MLB Reporter) Daniel McCutchen has left Triple-A team to join Pirates in STL; not yet officially named Saturday’s starter as roster move still needed.
- There are a lot of conflicting reports on Paul Maholm (Dodgers, Mets and Padres are ”interested”) DJ Carrasco, Javier Lopez, Joel Hanrahan have also been acquired about. With less than 24 hours left of the deadline, thinks could get interesting.
For a good break down on the Pirates trade rumors check out PGHPineTar
News and Notes
Just a few news and notes from last night before I head to the ballpark this afternoon. =)
- Starting pitching comparison (through 19 starts)
D. Gooden (NYM) G. Maddux (ATL) J. Johnson (FLA)
YEAR: 1985 1995 2010
RECORD: 12-3 12-1 10-3
ERA: 1.78 1.71 1.62
Josh Johnson hasn’t given up more than 3 + ER since May 8th.
- Reds, Edison Volquez took the mound yesterday for the first time since June 1, 2009. (Rehab process and suspension for violating MLB’s performance enhancing drug policy.)
He went 6.0 IP, 3H, R, ER, 2BB, 9K, WP- (1-0)
- HotStove- Dodgers could look to move Matt Kemp
- Baseball should retire Roberto Clemente’s No. 21. -StarTelegram
- Pirates went 10 for 21 with RISP in last nights game vs Houston (12-6 W) It was the first time the bucs have had 10 hits with RISP since Aug 9, 2005 at Colorado.
- Ever wonder what the Pirates visitors clubhouse looks like? @alysonfooter (media for the Houston Astros) took a video. It’s pretty cool. Check it out here
- AJ Burnett embarrassed after cutting hands during clubhouse tantrum -MLBFanhouse
Burnett (since June 1st) 8 Starts:
RECORD: 1-6
ERA: 8.10 (Highest ERA in MLB since June 5th)
IP/START: 4.2
OPP AVG: .306
HR ALLOWED: 10
- Wainwright carries cards, stays perfect at home -ESPN
Wainwright this season at home:
10 starts, 10-0, 1.31 ERA, .193 opp avg
- Los Angeles Dodgers manager Joe Torre undecided about managing next year -ESPN
- Red Sox, Lowell: Sox won’t release me -ESPN
- Which Pirates pitchers are getting taken advantage of most by basestealers? Here are the Stats: Throwing out runners 101 -BucsBits
- Royals Eric Hosmer has been promoted to Double-A. He hit .354, 29(2B), 6(3B), 7HR, 51 RBI in High-A.
- Post All-Star break blog about Erik Kratz and his choice to stay with the Pirates -Isthisthingon
- Jeff Bagwell reflects after his first game at hitting coach -twitvid
Happy 70th Birthday to Joe Torre!!!!
All-Star Break Stats (League & Team Leaders) Pt 1 (NL)
2010 National League Leaders:
AVG
- M. Prado ATL .325
- A. Ethier LAD .324
- P. Polanco PHI .318
HR
- A. Dunn WAS 22
- J. Votto CIN 22
- A. Pujols STL 21
RBI
- R. Howard PHI 65
- D. Wright NYM 65
- C. Hart MIL 65
ERA
- J. Johnson FLA 1.70
- A. Wainwright STL 2.11
- J. Garcia STL 2.17
WINS
- U. Jimenez COL 15
- A. Wainwright STL 13
- M. Pelfrey NYM 10
K
- T. Lincecum SF 131
- R. Halladay PHI 128
- C. Kershaw LAD 128
ATLANTA BRAVES:
AVG
- Martin Prado .325
- Brian McCann .267
- Melky Cabrera .259
HR
- Troy Glaus 14
- Jason Heyward 11
- Martin Prado 10
RBI
- Troy Glaus 58
- Jason Heyward 45
- Martin Prado 39
WINS
- Derek Lowe 9
- Tim Hudson 9
- Tommy Hanson 8
ERA
- Tim Hudson 2.30
- Kris Medlen 3.16
- Tommy Hanson 4.13
K
- Tommy Hanson 104
- Derek Lowe 70
- Kris Medlen 65
FLORIDA MARLINS:
AVG
- Gaby Sanchez .302
- Hanley Ramirez .301
- Dan Uggla .285
HR
- Dan Uggla 16
- Hanley Ramirez 13
- Jorge Cantu 10
RBI
- Hanley Ramirez 53
- Jorge Cantu 52
- Dan Uggla 52
WINS
- Josh Johnson 9
- Ricky Nolasco 9
- Anibal Sanchez 7
ERA
- Josh Johnson 1.70
- Anibal Sanchez 3.66
- Ricky Nolasco 4.55
K
- Josh Johnson 123
- Ricky Nolasco 94
- Anibal Sanchez 71
NEW YORK METS
AVG
- Angel Pagan .315
- David Wright .314
- Jose Reyes .275
HR
- David Wright 14
- Ike Davis 11
- Rod Barajas 11
RBI
- David Wright 65
- Jason Bay 44
- Jeff Francoeur 42
WINS
- Mike Pelfrey 10
- Hisanori Takahashi 7
- Johan Santana 7
ERA
- Johan Santana 2.98
- Mike Pelfrey 3.58
- Jonathon Niese 3.61
K
- Johan Santana 83
- Jonathan Niese 73
- Hisanori Takahashi 72
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES
AVG
- Placido Polanco .318
- Ryan Howard .294
- Jayson Werth .282
HR
- Ryan Howard 17
- Shane Victorino 14
- Jayson Werth 13
RBI
- Ryan Howard 65
- Jayson Werth 49
- Shane Victorino
WINS
- Roy Halladay 10
- Jamie Moyer 9
- Cole Hamels 7
ERA
- Roy Halladay 2.19
- Cole Hamels 3.78
- Kyle Kendrick 4.49
K
- Roy Halladay 128
- Cole Hamels 107
- Jamie Moyer 62
WASHINGTON NATIONALS
AVG
- Christian Guzman .294
- Ryan Zimmerman .294
- Adam Dunn .288
RBI
- Adam Dunn 59
- Ryan Zimmerman 48
- Josh Willingham 46
WINS
- Tyler Clippard 8
- Livan Hernandez 6
- Luis Atilano 6
ERA
- Livan Hernandez 3.37
K
- Steven Strasburg 61
- Livan Hernandez 59
- Tyler Clippard 58
CHICAGO CUBS
AVG
- Marlon Byrd .317
- Ryan Theriot .278
- Alfanso Soriano .269
HR
- Alfonso Soriano 15
- Tyler Colvin 12
- Derrek Lee 10
RBI
- Alfonso Soriano 44
- Marlon Byrd 40
- Derrek Lee 36
WINS
- Carlos Silva 9
- Ryan Dempster 7
- Sean Marshall 5
ERA
- Carlos Silva 3.45
- Ryan Dempster 3.61
- Ted Lilly 4.08
K
- Ryan Dempster 120
- Randy Wells 83
- Carlos Marmol 78
CINCINNATI REDS
AVG
- Joey Votto .314
- Brandon Phillips .294
- Scott Rolen .290
HR
- Joey Votto 22
- Scott Rolen 17
- Brandon Phillips 12
RBI
- Joey Votto 60
- Jonny Gomes 60
- Scott Rolen 57
WINS
- Bronson Arroyo 9
- Johnny Cueto 8
- Aaron Harang 6
ERA
- Johnny Cueto 3.42
- Mike Leake 3.53
- Bronson Arroyo 4.04
K
- Johnny Cueto 79
- Aaron Harang 75
- Mike Leake 70
HOUSTON ASTROS
AVG
- Jeff Keppinger .284
- Hunter Pence .263
- Michael Bourn .255
HR
- Hunter Pence 12
- Carlos Lee 12
- Lance Berkman 12
WINS
- Wandy Rodriguez 6
- Brett Myers 6
- Roy Oswalt 6
ERA
- Roy Oswalt 3.08
- Brett Myers 3.41
- Wandy Rodriguez 4.97
K
- Roy Oswalt 12
- Brett Myers 89
- Wandy Rodriguez 77
MILWAUKEE BREWERS
AVG
- Ryan Braun .292
- Corey Hart .288
- Casey McGehee .274
HR
- Corey Hart 21
- Prince Fielder 20
- Rickie Weeks 15
RBI
- Corey Hart 65
- Ryan Braun 54
- Rickie Weeks 53
WINS
- Yovani Gallardo 8
- Chris Narveson 7
- Randy Wolf 6
ERA
- Yovani Gallardo 2.58
- Dave Bush 4.14
- Randy Wold 4.56
K
- Yovani Gallardo 122
- Randy Wolf 74
- Manny Parra 71
PITTSBURGH PIRATES
AVG
- Andrew McCutchen .287
- Lastings Milledge .276
- Garrett Jones .272
HR
- Garrett Jones 11
- Andrew McCutchen 8
- Ryan Doumit 8
RBI
- Garrett Jones
- Ryan Doumit 31
- Andrew McCutchen 29
WINS
- Paul Maholm 5
- Evan Meek 4
- Zack Duke 3
ERA
- Paul Maholm 4.37
K
- Paul Maholm 56
- Joel Hanrahan 52
- Ross Ohlendorf 50
ST LOUIS CARDINALS
AVG
- Albert Pujols .308
- Matt Holliday .300
- Colby Rasmus .284
HR
- Albert Pujols 21
- Matt Holliday 16
- Colby Rasmus 16
RBI
- Albert Pujols 64
- Matt Holliday 51
- Colby Rasmus 42
WINS
- Adam Wainwright 13
- Chris Carpenter 9
- Jamie Garcia 8
ERA
- Adam Wainwright 2.11
- Jamie Garcia 2.17
- Chris Carpenter 3.29
K
- Adam Wainwright 127
- Chris Carpenter 108
- Jamie Garcia 80
ARIZONA DBACKS
AVG
- Kelly Johnson .276
- Stephen Drew .275
- Chris Young .266
HR
- Mark Reynolds 20
- Chris Young 15
- Kelly Johnson 14
RBI
- Chris Young 61
- Mark Reynolds 56
- Adam LaRoche 55
WINS
- Dan Haren 7
- Edwin Jackson 6
- Rodrigo Lopez 5
ERA
- Ian Kennedy 4.12
- Dan Haren 4.36
- Rodrigo Lopez 4.40
K
- Dan Haren 125
- Ian Kennedy 100
- Edwin Jackson 90
COLORADO ROCKIES
AVG
- Carlos Gonzalez .314
- Ian Stewart .258
- Clint Barmes .257
HR
- Carlos Gonzalez 17
- Seth Smith 12
- Ian Stewart 11
RBI
- Carlos Gonzalez 60
- Ian Stewart 44
- Clint Barmes 42
WINS
- Ubaldo Jimenez 15
- Jason Hammel 7
- Jhoulys Chacin 5
ERA
- Ubaldo Jimenez 2.20
- Jason Hammel 4.08
- Aaron Cook 4.88
K
- Ubaldo Jimenez 113
- Jhoulys Chacin 80
- Jason Hammel 72
LOS ANGELES DODGERS
AVG
- Andre Ethier .324
- James Loney .309
- Matt Kemp .261
HR
- Matt Kemp 16
- Andre Ethier 14
- Casey Blake 9
RBI
- James Loney 63
- Andrew Ethier 54
- Matt Kemp 51
WINS
- Clayton Kershaw 9
- Hiroki Kuroda 7
- Chad Billingsley 7
ERA
- Clayton Kershaw 2.96
- Hiroki Kuroda 3.87
- Chad Billingsley 4.14
K
- Clayton Kershaw 128
- Chad Billingsley 89
- Hiroki Kuoda 82
SAN DIEGO PADRES
AVG
- Adrian Gonzalez .301
- David Eckstein .279
- Chase Headley .269
HR
- Adrian Gonzalez 18
- Will Venable 8
- Scott Hairston 8
RBI
- Adrian Gonzalez 56
- Jerry Hariston JR 32
- Will Venable 32
WINS
- Matt Latos 10
- Jon Garland 8
- Clayton Richard 6
ERA
- Matt Latos 2.45
- Wade LeBlanc 3.30
- Clayton Richard 3.33
K
- Matt Latos 99
- Clayton Richard 90
- Kevin Correia 73
SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS
AVG
- Aubrey Huff .295
- Andres Torres .281
- Pablos Sandoval .263
HR
- Aubrey Huff 17
- Juan Uribe 12
- Aaron Rowland 8
RBI
- Aubrey Huff 54
- Juan Uribe 50
- Pablo Sandoval 34
WINS
- Tim Lincecum 9
- Barry Zito 7
- Jonathan Sanchez 7
ERA
- Tim Lincecum 3.16
- Matt Cain 3.34
- Jonathan Sanchez 3.47
K
- Tim Lincecum 131
- Jonathan Sanchez 104
- Matt Cain 88
Randon Notes
This is such an exciting next few days for me. Today, is April fools (I love playing pranks on people) tommorow is my birthday, sunday is Easter festivites and MONDAY is opening Day!
So much to look forward too! This will be my last post before the season begins. I’m so freaking excited! I wish all the teams luck. I’m looking forward to a great 2010 season.
- ESPN magazine’s predictions:
- As you probally know by now, the Pirates claimed Hayden Penn off waivers from FL Marlins. To make room for him on the roster, they designated Brandon Moss for assignment.
Can’t say I didn’t see that one happening. Since we got him from the Jason Bay trade, he has been down right awful. I think I read somewhere that in ST he had a pretty long hitless streak.
- The Pirates also resasigned Erik Kratz to minor league camp, making Jason Jaramillo as backup catcher to Ryan Doumit.
- Spring training has been pretty rough for the pirates. Last time i checked I think they were 7-16.
I’m excited that ST is almost over and the 2010 season is FINALLY ready to begin!
- Lastly, I want to thank everyone for all the kind words and all of the comments I’ve gotten about giving away some of my tickets. I was raised by one of the kindest, sweetest, nicest mothers you’d ever meet and it rubbed off on me. I realize I could sell my tickets (ones I can’t make it to) on stubhub bc let’s be honest, everyone could use money these days but I understand how the economy is right now. I have loved baseball since I was little and during rough times its nice to forget about everything and enjoy yourself at a game. I know it sounds cheesy but if everyone gave a little, or spread a little love the word would be a much better place. I hope I don’t have to miss to many, but things come up. I will miss most wed games during the first half of the season. So keep checking back (you dont even have to read my blog lol) and hopefully you’ll get my seat to an upcoming game.
Only 4 Days 2 Hours 58 Minutes!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh, and PS. Opening day Monday I am going to PNC park the crack of dawn. I am having bfast near by the park and want to be one of the firsts in line. If any other Pirates fans plan on going early, let me know. I love meeting Pirate fans!
Continued..
NL Central:
- Cardinals:
Rotation
R Chris Carpenter
R Adam Wainwright
R Kyle Lohse
R Brad Penny
5th Spot: L Rich Hill/ L Jaime Garcia
Starters
C Molina
1B Pujols
2B Schumaker
SS Ryan
3B Freese
RF Ludwick
CF Rasmus
LF Holliday
Pen
R Mitchell Boggs
R Blake Hawksworth
R Kyle McClellan
L Trevor Miller
R Jason Motte
L Dennis Reyes
Closer: R Ryan Franklin
- Cubs:
Rotation
R Carlos Zambrano
R Ryan Dempster
L Ted Lilly
R Randy Wells
5th Spot: R Carlos Silva/ R Jeff Samarolzija/ L Tom Gorzelanny
Starters
C Soto
1B Lee
2B Fontenot
SS Theriot
3B Ramirez
RF Fukdome
CF Byrd
LF Soriano
- Brewers:
Rotation
R Yovani Gallardo
L Randy Wolf
L Doug Davis
R Jeff Suppan
5th Spot: L Manny Para/ R Dave Bush
Starters
C Zaun
1B Fielder
2B Weeks
SS Escobar
3B McGehee
RF Hart
CF Gomez
LF Braun
- Reds
Starters
C Hernandez
1B Votto
2B Phillips
SS Cabrera
3B Rolen
RF Bruce
CF Stubbs
LF Dickerson
Rotation
R Aaron Harang
R Bronson Arroyo
R Johnny Cueto
R Homer Bailey
R Justin Lehr
- Pirates
Starter
C Doumit
1B Clement
2B Iwamura
SS Cedeno
3B LaRoche
RF Jones
CF McCutchen
LF Milledge
Rotation
L Zach Duke
L Paul Maholm
R Ross Ohlendorf
R Charlie Morton
R Daniel McCutchen
- Astros
Bullpen
R Alberto Arias
L Tim Byrdak
R Jeff Fulchino
R Samuel Gervacio
R Brandon Lyon
R Chris Sampson
Closer: R Matt Lindstrom
Starters
C Quinetro
1B Berkman
2B Matsui
SS Manzella
3B Feliz
RF Pence
CF Bourn
LF Lee
Rotation
R Roy Oswaltz
L Randy Rodriquez
R Brett Myers
R Bud Norris
5th Spot: R Felipe Paulino/ R Brian Moehler
AL Central:
- Twins
Bullpen
R Scott Baker
R Kevin Slowey
R Carl Pavano
R Nick Blackburn
5th Spot: L Francisco Liriano/ L Brian Duensing
Lineup
CF Denard Span
2B Orlando Hudson
C Joe Mauer
1B Justin Morneau
RF Michael Cuddyer
DH Jason Kubel
LF Delmon Young
SS JJ Hardy
3B Punto/Harris
- Tigers
Pen
L Phil Coke
R Zach Miner
R Ryan Perry
L Daniel Schlereth
L Bobby Seay
R Joel Zumaya
Closer: R Jose Valverde
Starters
C Laird
1B Cabrera
2B Seizmore
SS Everett
3B Igne
RF Ordonez
CF Jackson
LF Raburn
DH Carlos Guillen
- White Sox:
Rotation
R Jake Peavy
L Mark Buehrle
R Gavin Floyd
L John Danks
R Freddy Garcia
Starters
C Pierzynski
1B Konerko
2B Beckham
SS Ramirez
3B Teahen
DH Andruw Jones
RF Quentin
CF Rios
LF Pierre
- Indians
Rotation
R Jake Westbrook
R Fausto Carmona
R Justin Masterson
L David Huff
L Aaron Laffey
Starters
C Marson
1B La Porta
2B Valbuena
SS Caberea
3B Peralta
DH Travis Hafner
RF Choo
CF Seizmore
LF Brantley
- Royals:
Rotation
R Zach Greinke
R Gil Meche
R Luke Hochevar
R Kyle Davies
5th Spot: R Brian Bannister/ R Robinson Tejeda
Starters
C Kendall
1B Butler
2B Callaspo
SS Betancourt
3B Gordon
DH Josh Fields
RF Guillen
CF Ankiel
LF De Jesus
NL East:
- Phillies:
Pen
R Danys Baez
L Antonio Bastardo
R Jose Contreras
R Chad Durbin
R Ryan Madson
L JC Romero
Closer: Brad Lidge
Rotation
R Roy Halladay
L Cole Hamels
R Joe Blanton
L JA Happ
5th Spot: L Jamie Moyer/ R Kyle Kendrick
Starters
C Ruiz
1B Howard
2B Utley
SS Rollins
3B Polanco
RF Werth
CF Victorino
LF Ibanez
- Marlins:
Lineup
LF Chris Coghlan
CF Cameron Maybin
SS Hanley Ramirez
3B Jorge Cantu
2B Dan Uggla
RF Cody Ross
C John Baker
1B G Sanchez/ L Morrison
Rotation
R Josh Johnson
R Ricky Nolasco
R Chris Volstad
R Anibal Sanchez
5th Spot: L Andrew Miller/ L Sean West
- Mets:
Rotation
L Johan Santana
R Mike Delfrey
L Oliver Perez
R John Maine
5th Spot: R Fernando Nieve/ L Jon Niese
Starters
C Santos
1B Murphy
2B Castillo
SS Reyes
3B Wright
RF Francoeur
CF Bentran (out until May)
LF Bay
Kristy Robinson
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