If Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips has political aspirations he's off to a good start.
After asking his Twitter followers how to spend Thursday's off-day, Phillips received a response from a fan who said he should come watch the Cincy Flames, a 14-and-under baseball team. Phillips asked for the address and actually showed up, watching the Flames' 13-2 victory and posing for photos with players.
The fan-friendly Phillips has been connecting with the public via his ever-popular Twitter page DatDudeBP. He's well-regarded as a willing autograph signer and rarely turns down a photo-op.
But other aspects of Phillips' personality remain a mystery. He's a relative loner on the team. There are media members he hasn't spoken to in years, although I hear he's better this season. Then there's the "I hate St. Louis" diatribe which, by the way, was provided to Hal McCoy and FOX Sports' Jim Day completely without provocation.
The only thing I'm certain of when it comes to the Reds second baseman is that he's immensely talented and a wizard with the glove. But DatDude is a strange dude.
Will the real No. 4 please stand up?
Friday, May 13, 2011
Blog fodder from STATS.Inc.
The Los Angeles Angels lead the American League with a .270 batting average, thanks in part to their success with two strikes. The Angels are batting a major league-high .224 in those situations. While major leaguers are batting a collective .173 in two-strike counts, six Angels are hitting higher than .250. Maicer Izturis has 24 two-strike hits, the most in the majors, and Howie Kendrick is second with 22. Among all players with at least 10 hits with two strikes in 2011, Izturis is one of six Angels in the top 30 in batting average:
Highest Batting Average in Two-Strike Counts, 2011
(minimum 10 hits in two-strike situations)
Hitter Hits AVG
1. Jason Bourgeois, HOU 10 .435
2. Casey Kotchman, TB 13 .394
3. Maicer Izturis, LAA 24 .348
4. Matt Holliday, STL 21 .339
5. Pablo Sandoval, SF 12 .324
14. Hank Conger, LAA 11 .289
18. Erick Aybar, LAA 13 .265
24. Torii Hunter, LAA 19 .260
25. Howie Kendrick, LAA 22 .259
27. Alberto Callaspo, LAA 12 .255
The Cardinals’ Matt Holliday is 7-for-17 with two doubles, two homers and three walks in plate appearances that have started with two consecutive strikes. Among the 256 major leaguers who have started 0-2 at least 15 times this season, Holliday’s
.412 average and .500 OBP are the highest.
On Thursday, when the New York Yankees lost an 11-5 decision to the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium, not a single New York batter struck out. It was the first time the Yankees had gone an entire game without striking out since July 8, 2009, when they defeated the Twins during their final trip to the Metrodome. The last time the Yankees lost a game in which they didn’t strike out was a 7-1 defeat in Detroit nearly a decade ago -- on July 19, 2001. The last time they lost at home without striking out was June 17, 1994, in an 8-1 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.
Phillies closer Brad Lidge has yet to pitch in 2011, and his replacement, Jose Contreras, has joined him on the disabled list. Still, the Philadelphia Phillies have the highest save percentage among all big league clubs. The Phillies bullpen has converted 11 of 12 save opportunities, good for a 91.7-percent conversion rate. Contreras was 5-for-5 before going down with a sore elbow, and Ryan Madson is 5-for-5in his stead.
April was a difficult month for the Chicago White Sox’s bullpen, which blew six of nine save chances and posted a 5.55 ERA. It looked as though more of the same was likely in May, after White Sox relievers allowed 14 earned runs in the final three days of April, but the bullpen has been much better this month:
White Sox Bullpen, 2011
IP ERA OBA HR SV-OPP
April 73.0 5.55 .281 9 3-9
May 21.0 1.29 .171 1 2-2
With a 4-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday, the Pittsburgh Pirates improved to 18-17, marking the latest point in the season that they’ve been above .500 since they were 23-22 on May 29, 2004. The Pirates, with 18 consecutive losing seasons heading into 2011, have been above .500 in the second half in only two of those 18 seasons -- the last time in 1999. In five of them, the Pirates never were above .500. In fact, they failed to surpass the .500 mark for nearly three full years, from May 2004 until April 2007.
Among the 176 relievers who have appeared in at least 10 games in 2011, only two have yet to allow a first batter they’ve faced to reach base. San Diego’s Mike Adamshas retired all 18 of his first batters, and the Angels’ Rich Thompson has set down 13 in 13 games. First batters have gone 0-for-18 against another Padre, Chad Qualls, though he has given up a walk for a still-stingy .053 opponent OBP. Washington closer Drew Storen has the same opponent OBP, limiting first batters to one hit in 19 at-bats.
No team walks less frequently than the Chicago Cubs, who are averaging one walk per every 14.7 plate appearances. Four Cubs are among the most unlikely major league hitters to draw a walk:
Cubs Hitters – Walk Rates, 2011
(with ranks among 193 qualifiers in MLB)
Darwin Barney 1 per 33.5 PA 188th
Alfonso Soriano 1 per 33.3 PA 187th
Starlin Castro 1 per 31.6 PA 184th
Marlon Byrd 1 per 30.6 PA 183rd
The lowest walk rate among batting qualifiers belongs to Oakland leadoff man Coco Crisp, who has drawn just two walks in 30 games -- an average of one walk per 62.0 plate appearances. As a group, leadoff hitters in the majors are drawing an average of one free pass for every 12.6 PAs, walking nearly five times as often as Crisp.
Highest Batting Average in Two-Strike Counts, 2011
(minimum 10 hits in two-strike situations)
Hitter Hits AVG
1. Jason Bourgeois, HOU 10 .435
2. Casey Kotchman, TB 13 .394
3. Maicer Izturis, LAA 24 .348
4. Matt Holliday, STL 21 .339
5. Pablo Sandoval, SF 12 .324
14. Hank Conger, LAA 11 .289
18. Erick Aybar, LAA 13 .265
24. Torii Hunter, LAA 19 .260
25. Howie Kendrick, LAA 22 .259
27. Alberto Callaspo, LAA 12 .255
The Cardinals’ Matt Holliday is 7-for-17 with two doubles, two homers and three walks in plate appearances that have started with two consecutive strikes. Among the 256 major leaguers who have started 0-2 at least 15 times this season, Holliday’s
.412 average and .500 OBP are the highest.
On Thursday, when the New York Yankees lost an 11-5 decision to the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium, not a single New York batter struck out. It was the first time the Yankees had gone an entire game without striking out since July 8, 2009, when they defeated the Twins during their final trip to the Metrodome. The last time the Yankees lost a game in which they didn’t strike out was a 7-1 defeat in Detroit nearly a decade ago -- on July 19, 2001. The last time they lost at home without striking out was June 17, 1994, in an 8-1 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.
Phillies closer Brad Lidge has yet to pitch in 2011, and his replacement, Jose Contreras, has joined him on the disabled list. Still, the Philadelphia Phillies have the highest save percentage among all big league clubs. The Phillies bullpen has converted 11 of 12 save opportunities, good for a 91.7-percent conversion rate. Contreras was 5-for-5 before going down with a sore elbow, and Ryan Madson is 5-for-5in his stead.
April was a difficult month for the Chicago White Sox’s bullpen, which blew six of nine save chances and posted a 5.55 ERA. It looked as though more of the same was likely in May, after White Sox relievers allowed 14 earned runs in the final three days of April, but the bullpen has been much better this month:
White Sox Bullpen, 2011
IP ERA OBA HR SV-OPP
April 73.0 5.55 .281 9 3-9
May 21.0 1.29 .171 1 2-2
With a 4-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday, the Pittsburgh Pirates improved to 18-17, marking the latest point in the season that they’ve been above .500 since they were 23-22 on May 29, 2004. The Pirates, with 18 consecutive losing seasons heading into 2011, have been above .500 in the second half in only two of those 18 seasons -- the last time in 1999. In five of them, the Pirates never were above .500. In fact, they failed to surpass the .500 mark for nearly three full years, from May 2004 until April 2007.
Among the 176 relievers who have appeared in at least 10 games in 2011, only two have yet to allow a first batter they’ve faced to reach base. San Diego’s Mike Adamshas retired all 18 of his first batters, and the Angels’ Rich Thompson has set down 13 in 13 games. First batters have gone 0-for-18 against another Padre, Chad Qualls, though he has given up a walk for a still-stingy .053 opponent OBP. Washington closer Drew Storen has the same opponent OBP, limiting first batters to one hit in 19 at-bats.
No team walks less frequently than the Chicago Cubs, who are averaging one walk per every 14.7 plate appearances. Four Cubs are among the most unlikely major league hitters to draw a walk:
Cubs Hitters – Walk Rates, 2011
(with ranks among 193 qualifiers in MLB)
Darwin Barney 1 per 33.5 PA 188th
Alfonso Soriano 1 per 33.3 PA 187th
Starlin Castro 1 per 31.6 PA 184th
Marlon Byrd 1 per 30.6 PA 183rd
The lowest walk rate among batting qualifiers belongs to Oakland leadoff man Coco Crisp, who has drawn just two walks in 30 games -- an average of one walk per 62.0 plate appearances. As a group, leadoff hitters in the majors are drawing an average of one free pass for every 12.6 PAs, walking nearly five times as often as Crisp.
Killebrew succumbing to cancer
Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew, who hit 573 homers in 22 seasons, is losing his battle with cancer. Killebrew earned 1969 AL MVP honors after hitting 49 homers with 140 RBI. He released the following statement today:
“It is with profound sadness that I share with you that my continued battle with esophageal cancer is coming to an end. With the continued love and support of my wife, Nita, I have exhausted all options with respect to controlling this awful disease. My illness has progressed beyond my doctors’ expectation of cure.
I have spent the past decade of my life promoting hospice care and educating people on its benefits. I am very comfortable taking this next step and experiencing the compassionate care that hospice provides.
I am comforted by the fact that I am surrounded by my family and friends. I thank you for the outpouring of concern, prayers and encouragement that you have shown me. I look forward to spending my final days in comfort and peace with Nita by my side.”
“It is with profound sadness that I share with you that my continued battle with esophageal cancer is coming to an end. With the continued love and support of my wife, Nita, I have exhausted all options with respect to controlling this awful disease. My illness has progressed beyond my doctors’ expectation of cure.
I have spent the past decade of my life promoting hospice care and educating people on its benefits. I am very comfortable taking this next step and experiencing the compassionate care that hospice provides.
I am comforted by the fact that I am surrounded by my family and friends. I thank you for the outpouring of concern, prayers and encouragement that you have shown me. I look forward to spending my final days in comfort and peace with Nita by my side.”
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Pete Harnisch would be proud
The former Reds pitcher regularly biked to the ballpark. Now the Reds want fans to do the same.
Here's the press release:
Fans encouraged to ride bicycles to the May 15th Reds vs. Cards game
CINCINNATI (May 11, 2011) – The Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Cycle Club and Reser Bicycle Outfitters have teamed up to encourage area bicycle enthusiasts to ride to the ballpark and get discounted tickets to Sunday’s Reds vs Cardinals game.
The second annual “Bike 2 Baseball Day” is Sunday, May 15 as the Reds take on the St. Louis Cardinals at 1:10 pm at Great American Ball Park.
This event kicks off Bike to Work Week in Cincinnati and is right in the middle of National Bicycle Month. Reds Riders have the option to join two organized rides to the game.
For details of the two rides and to purchase game tickets online visit: reds.com/bike2baseball.
To receive the special discount, tickets must be purchased by Saturday, May 14. Tickets for this offer cannot be purchased at the box office on the day of the game.
Riders will have the option of choosing between Sun/Moon Deck or the View Level tickets, with everyone sitting together in each section.
Reser Bicycle will provide bike racks on the southeast corner of Main Street/Joe Nuxhall Way and Second Street. Riders are strongly encouraged to bring their own locks as the bikes will not be monitored.
For questions about Bike 2 Baseball Day, contact Shannon Senger at ssenger@reds.com or (513) 765-7105.
Here's the press release:
Fans encouraged to ride bicycles to the May 15th Reds vs. Cards game
CINCINNATI (May 11, 2011) – The Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Cycle Club and Reser Bicycle Outfitters have teamed up to encourage area bicycle enthusiasts to ride to the ballpark and get discounted tickets to Sunday’s Reds vs Cardinals game.
The second annual “Bike 2 Baseball Day” is Sunday, May 15 as the Reds take on the St. Louis Cardinals at 1:10 pm at Great American Ball Park.
This event kicks off Bike to Work Week in Cincinnati and is right in the middle of National Bicycle Month. Reds Riders have the option to join two organized rides to the game.
For details of the two rides and to purchase game tickets online visit: reds.com/bike2baseball.
To receive the special discount, tickets must be purchased by Saturday, May 14. Tickets for this offer cannot be purchased at the box office on the day of the game.
Riders will have the option of choosing between Sun/Moon Deck or the View Level tickets, with everyone sitting together in each section.
Reser Bicycle will provide bike racks on the southeast corner of Main Street/Joe Nuxhall Way and Second Street. Riders are strongly encouraged to bring their own locks as the bikes will not be monitored.
For questions about Bike 2 Baseball Day, contact Shannon Senger at ssenger@reds.com or (513) 765-7105.
Bill Bergesch dies at 89
Press release from the Yankees:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
YANKEES MOURN THE PASSING OF BILL BERGESCH
The New York Yankees mourn the passing of Bill Bergesch, who died on Tuesday at a retirement home in Stamford, Conn., at age 89.
Bergesch first joined the Yankees organization as the club’s traveling secretary and stadium manager from 1964 through 1967 before returning to the Yankees in 1978 as director of scouting. In 1980, he was named vice president of baseball operations and remained in the post until resigning in October 1984. From 1991-92, he was Yankees assistant general manager under Gene Michael before becoming a senior advisor in the Yankees baseball operations department from 1993-94. Since that time, Bergesch was a regular fixture at Yankees spring training and an advisor to the organization.
Bergesch was born on June 17, 1921, in St. Louis Mo., and graduated from Washington University in 1946 after serving three years in the U.S. Army from 1942-44 and receiving a Purple Heart. He began his baseball career with the St. Louis Cardinals organization in 1947, serving as general manager for farm teams in Albany, Ga.; Winston-Salem, N.C.; Columbus, Ga.; and Omaha, Neb. In 1959 and ‘60, he served as the Cardinals’ scouting coordinator based in St. Louis.
During the 1961 season, Bergesch served as the assistant general manager of the Kansas City Athletics, working for owner Charles O. Finley. In November of that year, Bergesch joined the Mets organization and was named farm director by then-Mets general manager George Weiss. In that capacity, Bergesch was responsible for setting up the farm system and hiring scouts prior to the Mets’ inaugural 1962 season. After spending approximately two years with the Mets and working for the Yankees from 1964 through February 1967, Bergesch began a two-year stretch as general manager of the New York Generals franchise in the National Professional Soccer League from 1967-68.
From 1969 through 1977, Bergesch was in the venture capital business. After returning to the Yankees from 1978 through the 1984 regular season, Bergesch was the general manager of the Cincinnati Reds from November 1984 until October 1987.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
YANKEES MOURN THE PASSING OF BILL BERGESCH
The New York Yankees mourn the passing of Bill Bergesch, who died on Tuesday at a retirement home in Stamford, Conn., at age 89.
Bergesch first joined the Yankees organization as the club’s traveling secretary and stadium manager from 1964 through 1967 before returning to the Yankees in 1978 as director of scouting. In 1980, he was named vice president of baseball operations and remained in the post until resigning in October 1984. From 1991-92, he was Yankees assistant general manager under Gene Michael before becoming a senior advisor in the Yankees baseball operations department from 1993-94. Since that time, Bergesch was a regular fixture at Yankees spring training and an advisor to the organization.
Bergesch was born on June 17, 1921, in St. Louis Mo., and graduated from Washington University in 1946 after serving three years in the U.S. Army from 1942-44 and receiving a Purple Heart. He began his baseball career with the St. Louis Cardinals organization in 1947, serving as general manager for farm teams in Albany, Ga.; Winston-Salem, N.C.; Columbus, Ga.; and Omaha, Neb. In 1959 and ‘60, he served as the Cardinals’ scouting coordinator based in St. Louis.
During the 1961 season, Bergesch served as the assistant general manager of the Kansas City Athletics, working for owner Charles O. Finley. In November of that year, Bergesch joined the Mets organization and was named farm director by then-Mets general manager George Weiss. In that capacity, Bergesch was responsible for setting up the farm system and hiring scouts prior to the Mets’ inaugural 1962 season. After spending approximately two years with the Mets and working for the Yankees from 1964 through February 1967, Bergesch began a two-year stretch as general manager of the New York Generals franchise in the National Professional Soccer League from 1967-68.
From 1969 through 1977, Bergesch was in the venture capital business. After returning to the Yankees from 1978 through the 1984 regular season, Bergesch was the general manager of the Cincinnati Reds from November 1984 until October 1987.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
David Dewitt Bailey
Homer Bailey and I had a bonding moment last season, following a rookie-like mistake on my part.
I approached the Reds pitcher prior to a late-season contest while working on NLDS preview stories for the Philadelphia Inquirer. I wasn't covering the Reds game that day so I had not glanced at the lineup. Bailey declined the interview, rather politely. I asked again stating that I just needed a moment of his time and Bailey again declined, this time less politely.
I finished up my other interviews, waltzed up to the press box and when I passed by the white board with that day's lineups I realized what I had done -- Bailey was the Reds starting pitcher. I had broken rule Numero Uno -- never talk to that day's starter. It was something I hadn't done in 16 years of covering baseball.
The next day I apologized to Bailey and we both got a good laugh out of it. "You probably thought I was one big SOB," Bailey said. "I was pretty sure you didn't know I was pitching".
The newest version of Bailey is in stark contrast to the one who at times was dubbed arrogant , stubborn, and uncoachable. It was the classic case of a young kid with immense talent who spent his life being told how great he was. A No. 1 draft choice with cash in his pocket and plenty of adulation to go around. This attitude bled into his pitching too. Behind in the count in a tough situation, 'Hmm, I think I'll just blow you away with my fastball. Worked in high school'.
But Bailey's two starts since being reinstated from the disabled list are a clear indication of his maturation. He doesn't have his best fastball, so he's adjusting. He's slowed his mechanics, and calmed his demeanor on the mound. He's a pitcher now, not a thrower.
And he's listening, mostly to Reds pitching coach Bryan Price. The advice is paying off. Bailey's arrogance has evolved into confidence and resolve. And the Reds are the benefactors.
I approached the Reds pitcher prior to a late-season contest while working on NLDS preview stories for the Philadelphia Inquirer. I wasn't covering the Reds game that day so I had not glanced at the lineup. Bailey declined the interview, rather politely. I asked again stating that I just needed a moment of his time and Bailey again declined, this time less politely.
I finished up my other interviews, waltzed up to the press box and when I passed by the white board with that day's lineups I realized what I had done -- Bailey was the Reds starting pitcher. I had broken rule Numero Uno -- never talk to that day's starter. It was something I hadn't done in 16 years of covering baseball.
The next day I apologized to Bailey and we both got a good laugh out of it. "You probably thought I was one big SOB," Bailey said. "I was pretty sure you didn't know I was pitching".
The newest version of Bailey is in stark contrast to the one who at times was dubbed arrogant , stubborn, and uncoachable. It was the classic case of a young kid with immense talent who spent his life being told how great he was. A No. 1 draft choice with cash in his pocket and plenty of adulation to go around. This attitude bled into his pitching too. Behind in the count in a tough situation, 'Hmm, I think I'll just blow you away with my fastball. Worked in high school'.
But Bailey's two starts since being reinstated from the disabled list are a clear indication of his maturation. He doesn't have his best fastball, so he's adjusting. He's slowed his mechanics, and calmed his demeanor on the mound. He's a pitcher now, not a thrower.
And he's listening, mostly to Reds pitching coach Bryan Price. The advice is paying off. Bailey's arrogance has evolved into confidence and resolve. And the Reds are the benefactors.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Torre to players: Shut up!
As a manager, Joe Torre won four World Series titles, six pennants and more than 4,300 games. He was a consummate professional, engaging, pleasant to deal with from a media perspective, and the game's definition of a winner. But in one of his first initiatives since becoming Major League Baseball's czar of on-field discipline Torre has swung and missed.
Torre is looking to curtail fraternization among players during games, more specifically once fans have entered the ballpark. Greetings from first basemen to opposing arrivals? Nope. Chats between second basemen and base runners? Never. A quick hello from batters to backstops? Not a chance. All a thing of the past, says Torre.
The insinuation is that the game has become too friendly. That the spirit of competition, intensity and focus is lacking in the eyes of the fans. Question is, who's clamoring for this? I've yet to hear one fan bring it up, or player, or manager for that matter.
Certainly there are players and managers, particularly those of previous generations, who frown upon the in-game chatter. There are more than a few current players who keep their on-field friendships to a minimum. But for every one of them there are a few more like Sean Casey or Brandon Phillips who are regular chatterboxes.
Does it lessen their competitive drive on the field? There's no evidence to support that assertion. In most cases it's simply a matter of personality. Joey Votto doesn't whoop it up with opposing players, but the Reds first baseman isn't the most dynamic personality on most days.
Point is, who really believes this is a big deal? Aren't there more pressing issues confronting the game? How about declining attendance? I doubt Phillips asking Albert Pujols about last night's dinner is causing fans to reverse the turnstiles.
Torre is looking to curtail fraternization among players during games, more specifically once fans have entered the ballpark. Greetings from first basemen to opposing arrivals? Nope. Chats between second basemen and base runners? Never. A quick hello from batters to backstops? Not a chance. All a thing of the past, says Torre.
The insinuation is that the game has become too friendly. That the spirit of competition, intensity and focus is lacking in the eyes of the fans. Question is, who's clamoring for this? I've yet to hear one fan bring it up, or player, or manager for that matter.
Certainly there are players and managers, particularly those of previous generations, who frown upon the in-game chatter. There are more than a few current players who keep their on-field friendships to a minimum. But for every one of them there are a few more like Sean Casey or Brandon Phillips who are regular chatterboxes.
Does it lessen their competitive drive on the field? There's no evidence to support that assertion. In most cases it's simply a matter of personality. Joey Votto doesn't whoop it up with opposing players, but the Reds first baseman isn't the most dynamic personality on most days.
Point is, who really believes this is a big deal? Aren't there more pressing issues confronting the game? How about declining attendance? I doubt Phillips asking Albert Pujols about last night's dinner is causing fans to reverse the turnstiles.
Monday, May 09, 2011
Decade of the pitcher?
The 2010 MLB season was dubbed the 'Year of the Pitcher', suggesting it was an aberration, a blip on our National Pastime's radar.
But more recent events indicate we might be in the midst of a trend.
Justin Verlander tossed his second-career no-hitter last week just days after the Twins' Francisco Liriano turned the trick. The pitching mastery flowed into this past weekend with a trio of pitchers taking no-hitters into the seventh inning on Friday and the Marlins' Anibal Sanchez doing the same on Sunday.
According to USA Today the eight complete games of two hits or less recorded this season are the most through May 7 since 1992.
Skeptics will say, "See, Steroid Era over, pitchers dominate". But there's surely more to it than than. I'm not seeing any greater frequency of warning track fly ball outs that would've reached the seats with PEDs. In fact, I'm seeing more and more hitters struggling to hit the ball at all.
More likely it's an increased initiative by organizations to develop and retain good pitching, which has always made sense. And, historically pitchers have been ahead of hitters in April and May, partly because of weather conditions being more conducive to pitching.
We'll take a wait and see approach on this. But it appears the 'Year of the Pitcher' could instead signify an overall maturation of the game. Thoughts?
But more recent events indicate we might be in the midst of a trend.
Justin Verlander tossed his second-career no-hitter last week just days after the Twins' Francisco Liriano turned the trick. The pitching mastery flowed into this past weekend with a trio of pitchers taking no-hitters into the seventh inning on Friday and the Marlins' Anibal Sanchez doing the same on Sunday.
According to USA Today the eight complete games of two hits or less recorded this season are the most through May 7 since 1992.
Skeptics will say, "See, Steroid Era over, pitchers dominate". But there's surely more to it than than. I'm not seeing any greater frequency of warning track fly ball outs that would've reached the seats with PEDs. In fact, I'm seeing more and more hitters struggling to hit the ball at all.
More likely it's an increased initiative by organizations to develop and retain good pitching, which has always made sense. And, historically pitchers have been ahead of hitters in April and May, partly because of weather conditions being more conducive to pitching.
We'll take a wait and see approach on this. But it appears the 'Year of the Pitcher' could instead signify an overall maturation of the game. Thoughts?
Saturday, May 07, 2011
Emptying the notebook - pre-Mother's Day edition
Been awhile. Give us some time to recharge the engines.
Fox broadcaster and former MLB catcher Tim McCarver on this afternoon's Reds/Cubs telecast was clever enough to mention that Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro is the only player named Starlin to ever play in the Major Leagues. He also pointed out that the Cubs' Darwin Barney was just the second Darwin to ever play in the big leagues, the last being right hander Darwin Cubillan who pitched for the Expos, Rangers, Orioles and Blue Jays from 2000-2004.
McCarver neglected to mention that Cubs right fielder Kosuke Fukudome is the only Major Leaguer to be named Kosuke. Guess he figured that was belaboring the obvious. How soon before 'A Starlin is born' and 'The evolution of Darwin' headlines get old? Already done.
There were two no-hitters thrown this week with varying degrees of cleanliness. Today the Tigers' Justin Verlander tossed his second-career no-hitter at Toronto allowing just one baserunner on a one-out walk in the eighth. Ealier this week the Twins' Francisco Liriano no-hit the White Sox but issued six walks in the process.
Today's list
Best Reds managers to work with (since I joined the beat in '99)
1. Dusty Baker
2. Jack McKeon
3. Dave Miley
4. Jerry Narron
5. Pete Mackanin
6. Bob Boone
Happy Mother's Day to all.
Fox broadcaster and former MLB catcher Tim McCarver on this afternoon's Reds/Cubs telecast was clever enough to mention that Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro is the only player named Starlin to ever play in the Major Leagues. He also pointed out that the Cubs' Darwin Barney was just the second Darwin to ever play in the big leagues, the last being right hander Darwin Cubillan who pitched for the Expos, Rangers, Orioles and Blue Jays from 2000-2004.
McCarver neglected to mention that Cubs right fielder Kosuke Fukudome is the only Major Leaguer to be named Kosuke. Guess he figured that was belaboring the obvious. How soon before 'A Starlin is born' and 'The evolution of Darwin' headlines get old? Already done.
There were two no-hitters thrown this week with varying degrees of cleanliness. Today the Tigers' Justin Verlander tossed his second-career no-hitter at Toronto allowing just one baserunner on a one-out walk in the eighth. Ealier this week the Twins' Francisco Liriano no-hit the White Sox but issued six walks in the process.
Today's list
Best Reds managers to work with (since I joined the beat in '99)
1. Dusty Baker
2. Jack McKeon
3. Dave Miley
4. Jerry Narron
5. Pete Mackanin
6. Bob Boone
Happy Mother's Day to all.
Monday, April 12, 2010
'Cool Hand' Leake
On the right-hand side of the Reds clubouse there are three lockers separated from the rest by a dividing wall and a doorway that leads to a conference room and manager Dusty Baker's office.
It is no coincidence that the lockers are reserved for a trio of starting pitchers. It's also seemingly no accident that this threesome has one personality trait in common.
Actually, three -- Calm. Cool. Collected.
First, there's the Reds' five-time Opening Day starter Aaron Harang -- the ballclub's resident gentle giant, soft-spoken, unflappable.
To Harang's far left is the golden-locked Bronson Arroyo -- part-time rocker, full-time innings-eater, and Key West native.
The newest addition to the Corner of Coolness is rookie right-hander Mike Leake - the long-haired Southern California native who Baker likened to a "little surfer".
Leake, of course, became just the 21st player since the first-year player draft was instituted in 1965 to make his Major League debut without appearing in a minor league game when he started against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday afternoon at Great American Ball Park.
Leake calmly escaped a bases-loaded, nobody-out jam in the first inning then cruised through 6 2/3 innings, allowing just one earned run on four hits. He struck out five and walked seven, the most he's ever issued in a game.
"I should've kept the ball from my seventh walk as a souvenir," said 'Cool Hand' Leake.
While family and friends sweated through Sunday's outing in Section 125 behind home plate (particularly his mother who was visibly nervous), Leake kept his composure.
Had Leake buckled under the pressure and folded amid the magnitude of his moment, he would've been asked to turn in his membership card in the Reds' Joe Cool Club.
As it stands, the 22-year old is stuck between Harang and Arroyo, making him a fixture in the Laid Back Wing.
http://tinyurl.com/y766un6
It is no coincidence that the lockers are reserved for a trio of starting pitchers. It's also seemingly no accident that this threesome has one personality trait in common.
Actually, three -- Calm. Cool. Collected.
First, there's the Reds' five-time Opening Day starter Aaron Harang -- the ballclub's resident gentle giant, soft-spoken, unflappable.
To Harang's far left is the golden-locked Bronson Arroyo -- part-time rocker, full-time innings-eater, and Key West native.
The newest addition to the Corner of Coolness is rookie right-hander Mike Leake - the long-haired Southern California native who Baker likened to a "little surfer".
Leake, of course, became just the 21st player since the first-year player draft was instituted in 1965 to make his Major League debut without appearing in a minor league game when he started against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday afternoon at Great American Ball Park.
Leake calmly escaped a bases-loaded, nobody-out jam in the first inning then cruised through 6 2/3 innings, allowing just one earned run on four hits. He struck out five and walked seven, the most he's ever issued in a game.
"I should've kept the ball from my seventh walk as a souvenir," said 'Cool Hand' Leake.
While family and friends sweated through Sunday's outing in Section 125 behind home plate (particularly his mother who was visibly nervous), Leake kept his composure.
Had Leake buckled under the pressure and folded amid the magnitude of his moment, he would've been asked to turn in his membership card in the Reds' Joe Cool Club.
As it stands, the 22-year old is stuck between Harang and Arroyo, making him a fixture in the Laid Back Wing.
http://tinyurl.com/y766un6
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Emptying the notebook ...
-- It's a long way from Holquin, Cuba, but Toledo, Ohio is where 22-year old Reds right-hander Aroldis Chapman will make his American pro debut.
Chapman will make his first start for the Triple-A Louisville Bats against the Toledo Mud Hens on Sunday at 2 p.m.
The Cuban Cannon posted a 1.69 ERA in five Spring Training games, walked seven and fanned 15 in 12 2/3 innings. Back spasms ended Chapman's bid to earn the No. 5 spot in the Reds starting rotation.
Last year's No. 1 draft choice Mike Leake, who beat out Chapman for the 5th spot, likely will make his big-league debut Sunday as well, at Great American Ball Park against the Chicago Cubs.
http://tinyurl.com/yeonbzs
-- Kudos to Yankees president Randy Levine who blatantly called out Brewers owner Mark Attanasio for "whining" about the Bombers' payroll.
Competitive imbalance, yeah I get it. But the Yanks have been lining the pockets of purported small-market owners for years. Hey Attanasio, don't spend your portion of the Bombers' $175 million gift and shared TV revenue all in one place.
http://tinyurl.com/ydz5wc6
-- Include me among those who believe Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski got it right.
Sure, his decision to intentionally miss a free throw with three seconds remaining gave Butler a chance to win the national title with a half-court heave. He could have made the free throw giving the Bulldogs an opportunity to just tie the score, but with a higher-percentage shot. Funny, nobody questions Coach K's move if Howard's attempt doesn't glance the rim.
Best-ever NCAA Tournament? It's close.
-- For freelance writers, it's all about the clips.
A last-minute decision to accept a work opportunity on Easter Sunday landed me a keeper for the portfolio.
A C1 piece on Aaron Harang's pressure-packed Opening Day start:
http://tinyurl.com/y9otj9s
-- While we were waiting to speak to Dusty Baker prior to Sunday's pre-Opening Day workout, a local TV reporter and I were discussing the location of Brandon Phillips' locker. And, we're not the first to question it.
When they give tours of the Reds clubhouse, I wonder if visitors need to catch a shuttle bus to view No. 4's cubbie?
It's situated at the far end of the clubhouse with a dividing wall between Phillips and his nearest teammate. The lockers to Phillips' left are vacant, usually until September callups.
It's telling.
As was Phillips' decision to snub the Enquirer's John Fay during Spring Training with a "How come you haven't written about me?" diatribe. Phillips likes to smile for the cameras and for the fans, but when it comes to maturity and leadership ...
Chapman will make his first start for the Triple-A Louisville Bats against the Toledo Mud Hens on Sunday at 2 p.m.
The Cuban Cannon posted a 1.69 ERA in five Spring Training games, walked seven and fanned 15 in 12 2/3 innings. Back spasms ended Chapman's bid to earn the No. 5 spot in the Reds starting rotation.
Last year's No. 1 draft choice Mike Leake, who beat out Chapman for the 5th spot, likely will make his big-league debut Sunday as well, at Great American Ball Park against the Chicago Cubs.
http://tinyurl.com/yeonbzs
-- Kudos to Yankees president Randy Levine who blatantly called out Brewers owner Mark Attanasio for "whining" about the Bombers' payroll.
Competitive imbalance, yeah I get it. But the Yanks have been lining the pockets of purported small-market owners for years. Hey Attanasio, don't spend your portion of the Bombers' $175 million gift and shared TV revenue all in one place.
http://tinyurl.com/ydz5wc6
-- Include me among those who believe Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski got it right.
Sure, his decision to intentionally miss a free throw with three seconds remaining gave Butler a chance to win the national title with a half-court heave. He could have made the free throw giving the Bulldogs an opportunity to just tie the score, but with a higher-percentage shot. Funny, nobody questions Coach K's move if Howard's attempt doesn't glance the rim.
Best-ever NCAA Tournament? It's close.
-- For freelance writers, it's all about the clips.
A last-minute decision to accept a work opportunity on Easter Sunday landed me a keeper for the portfolio.
A C1 piece on Aaron Harang's pressure-packed Opening Day start:
http://tinyurl.com/y9otj9s
-- While we were waiting to speak to Dusty Baker prior to Sunday's pre-Opening Day workout, a local TV reporter and I were discussing the location of Brandon Phillips' locker. And, we're not the first to question it.
When they give tours of the Reds clubhouse, I wonder if visitors need to catch a shuttle bus to view No. 4's cubbie?
It's situated at the far end of the clubhouse with a dividing wall between Phillips and his nearest teammate. The lockers to Phillips' left are vacant, usually until September callups.
It's telling.
As was Phillips' decision to snub the Enquirer's John Fay during Spring Training with a "How come you haven't written about me?" diatribe. Phillips likes to smile for the cameras and for the fans, but when it comes to maturity and leadership ...
Thursday, April 01, 2010
Reds delay Chapman, avoid circus
Kudos to the Reds for not parading Cuban fireballer Aroldis Chapman out to the mound at Great American Ball Park in order to seize a "Look who we got!" moment.
This would've been too easy.
The Cuban Cannon throws 100-plus mph. Chapman most certainly would've generated a considerable spike in ticket sales, widespread media attention and more than likely help ship a few of his jerseys off the shelves.
Instead, the Reds did what's right. Or, it could be viewed as doing what's necessary since Chapman was shelved with back spasms late in spring camp.
The acquisition of Chapman and his corresponding mega-contract raised eyebrows throughout baseball, mostly because it was the small-market bottom-feeding Reds who worked the deal.
Chapman likely will make his much-ballyhooed debut at some point this season.
But, for now, the 5th spot in the rotation appears to hinge on Travis Wood or top draft choice Mike Leake. Here's betting on "Smoky" Travis Wood.
In Chapman's case, the Reds made a baseball decision in lieu of business.
No cheerleaders, exploding scoreboards and multiple mascots needed this time.
These Reds are intent on winning. Many experts believe they're on the right path toward doing just that.
This would've been too easy.
The Cuban Cannon throws 100-plus mph. Chapman most certainly would've generated a considerable spike in ticket sales, widespread media attention and more than likely help ship a few of his jerseys off the shelves.
Instead, the Reds did what's right. Or, it could be viewed as doing what's necessary since Chapman was shelved with back spasms late in spring camp.
The acquisition of Chapman and his corresponding mega-contract raised eyebrows throughout baseball, mostly because it was the small-market bottom-feeding Reds who worked the deal.
Chapman likely will make his much-ballyhooed debut at some point this season.
But, for now, the 5th spot in the rotation appears to hinge on Travis Wood or top draft choice Mike Leake. Here's betting on "Smoky" Travis Wood.
In Chapman's case, the Reds made a baseball decision in lieu of business.
No cheerleaders, exploding scoreboards and multiple mascots needed this time.
These Reds are intent on winning. Many experts believe they're on the right path toward doing just that.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
A decade's worth of clutter
There are two file cabinets in my basement office containing much of what I need but mostly what I don't.
After 10-plus years covering Reds baseball, a reporter can amass quite a collection of "stuff". Of course, one person's clutter is another's treasure.
In need of some space for, you know, more junk, I decided to take advantage of a rainy spring day and clean out my closet, so to speak. But what actually transpired was a trip down memory lane. For me, it became a scenic Sunday drive.
The press release from the Ken Griffey Jr. trade - ah, remember it well. Feb. 10, 2000, a cool, drizzly afternoon throughout which this reporter prayed that the much-rumored deal would wait for another day. With a spiking fever and horrible virus, the last thing I wanted to do was venture down to Cinergy Field into a sweaty jam-packed media room to discuss the deal of the decade. But, that's what I did.
Not to be morbid, but several Reds notables have died while I was on the beat, most notably Marge Schott - I still have the funeral announcement. That was another rainy day, by the way (why do I always recall the weather?) - , Joe Nuxhall, and Glenn Sample.
Scorecards, why do I keep them? I didn't. Tossed a stack of 100 or so. Kept only those that recorded notable events or achievements. Made certain to keep any scorecards and game notes from the first game at Great American Ball Park and last at Cinergy/Riverfront.
Lots of Great American Ball Park stuff, mostly construction docs and opening game items. Kept very little. I recall writing stories for a construction newsletter, everything from the seats to the scoreboard.
Found my media credential from the Cinergy Field implosion. That was an early morning. Hal McCoy and I consumed a great deal of caffiene before the Big bang.
The sheer number of press passes found in my files convinced me of one thing: I spent far too much time away from home. Sorry, honey.
Weird stuff: the police report from Ryan Freel's DUI arrest and some legal documents/police reports from Dernell Stenson's murder.
In the end, it's all just paper. Memories can't be pitched, at least not voluntarily.
After 10-plus years covering Reds baseball, a reporter can amass quite a collection of "stuff". Of course, one person's clutter is another's treasure.
In need of some space for, you know, more junk, I decided to take advantage of a rainy spring day and clean out my closet, so to speak. But what actually transpired was a trip down memory lane. For me, it became a scenic Sunday drive.
The press release from the Ken Griffey Jr. trade - ah, remember it well. Feb. 10, 2000, a cool, drizzly afternoon throughout which this reporter prayed that the much-rumored deal would wait for another day. With a spiking fever and horrible virus, the last thing I wanted to do was venture down to Cinergy Field into a sweaty jam-packed media room to discuss the deal of the decade. But, that's what I did.
Not to be morbid, but several Reds notables have died while I was on the beat, most notably Marge Schott - I still have the funeral announcement. That was another rainy day, by the way (why do I always recall the weather?) - , Joe Nuxhall, and Glenn Sample.
Scorecards, why do I keep them? I didn't. Tossed a stack of 100 or so. Kept only those that recorded notable events or achievements. Made certain to keep any scorecards and game notes from the first game at Great American Ball Park and last at Cinergy/Riverfront.
Lots of Great American Ball Park stuff, mostly construction docs and opening game items. Kept very little. I recall writing stories for a construction newsletter, everything from the seats to the scoreboard.
Found my media credential from the Cinergy Field implosion. That was an early morning. Hal McCoy and I consumed a great deal of caffiene before the Big bang.
The sheer number of press passes found in my files convinced me of one thing: I spent far too much time away from home. Sorry, honey.
Weird stuff: the police report from Ryan Freel's DUI arrest and some legal documents/police reports from Dernell Stenson's murder.
In the end, it's all just paper. Memories can't be pitched, at least not voluntarily.
New coach, mostly same 'Cats
My first University of Cincinnati spring practice report has been filed to Sports XChange:
Initial impressions of first-year Bearcats head coach Butch Jones:
A no-nonsense football coach. Not the salesman/politician combo that was Brian Kelly, but more of a bare-bones guy. Players seem to like his open-door approach. Practices are just as spirited as they were under Kelly, and perhaps a bit more fast-paced. Jones' offensive philosophy is similar, although look for the running game to be more of a factor next season.
On a sunny, spring-like day at Nippert Stadium, you could almost smell fall.
http://tinyurl.com/ycgveo5
Initial impressions of first-year Bearcats head coach Butch Jones:
A no-nonsense football coach. Not the salesman/politician combo that was Brian Kelly, but more of a bare-bones guy. Players seem to like his open-door approach. Practices are just as spirited as they were under Kelly, and perhaps a bit more fast-paced. Jones' offensive philosophy is similar, although look for the running game to be more of a factor next season.
On a sunny, spring-like day at Nippert Stadium, you could almost smell fall.
http://tinyurl.com/ycgveo5
10 weeks for 19 seconds
University of Cincinnati senior swimmer Josh Schneider, about whom I wrote two stories for the Cincinnati Enquirer in the past couple months, wasn't about to let this opportunity slip past.
With Olympic sponsorships at stake and still stinging from a poor finish at last year's NCAA Championships, Schneider chose to forgo his vices - no drinking, no late nights, no fast food, and no motorcycle riding.
For 10 weeks in preparation for the NCAAs in Columbus, Schneider "disconnected himself from the world". Talk about commitment.
The strategy paid off. Schneider, the top-seed in the 50-meter freestyle, won the event with a record clocking of 18.93.
"I feel complete" he said afterwards.
The victory could net Schneider enough sponsorship cash to allow him to train full-time for the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Good luck in London, kid. I'd keep that motorcycle at your parents' house until '13.
http://tinyurl.com/yh3oh36
With Olympic sponsorships at stake and still stinging from a poor finish at last year's NCAA Championships, Schneider chose to forgo his vices - no drinking, no late nights, no fast food, and no motorcycle riding.
For 10 weeks in preparation for the NCAAs in Columbus, Schneider "disconnected himself from the world". Talk about commitment.
The strategy paid off. Schneider, the top-seed in the 50-meter freestyle, won the event with a record clocking of 18.93.
"I feel complete" he said afterwards.
The victory could net Schneider enough sponsorship cash to allow him to train full-time for the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Good luck in London, kid. I'd keep that motorcycle at your parents' house until '13.
http://tinyurl.com/yh3oh36
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Moments of magnitude
Perhaps for a moment, or two, Dee Dee Jernigan considered the magnitude of what she was about to accomplish.
It was a layup, a shot she'd made countless times during her college basketball career, in high school, on the playground, or by just tossing a wad of paper into the nearest receptacle.
But this was more than just a layup, or two.
It was a chance to clinch a signature victory over top-seed Stanford in the Sacramento Regional final, thus sending the Musketeers to their first Final Four.
But, instead of instinctively placing the ball into the basket like she'd done so many times before, Jernigan guided it. No, she Google mapped it and printed directions.
In the waning seconds of Monday night's game, Jernigan found herself alone under the basket. Not once, but twice.
She missed. Both times.
Then, in an almost pre-scripted result, Stanford's Jeanette Pohlen raced the length of the court for a buzzer-beating layup to give the Cardinal a 55-53 victory.
Pressure is part of the game. It's an obstacle to be overcome, like a 1-3-1 zone that seems impenetrable.
If it was easy, those 4-foot putts at Augusta would find the cup without fail.
Xavier's gut-wrenching defeat reminded me of another local moment of magnitude - last year's Frozen Four title game between Boston University and Miami University.
The Redhawks led 3-1 with less than one minute remaining, a seemingly insurmountable deficit in hockey terms. But the battle-tested Terriers rallied for three unanswered goals to win the national title in overtime.
Redhawks goalie Cody Reichard, who surrendered BU's winning goal as a freshman, has helped lead Miami back to the Frozen Four.
The next time he's thrust into a game-saving situation, Reichard will understand. He'll brush pressure off his red sweater like a speck of lint.
Unfortunately, Jernigan's college career is over. She won't get a chance to atone for Monday night, at least not on the basketball court.
I bet the next time the East Chicago, IN native attempts a layup, she'll drain it.
When life requires a greater degree of difficulty, Jernigan will be better prepared. She now knows what it takes, to hit or miss.
It was a layup, a shot she'd made countless times during her college basketball career, in high school, on the playground, or by just tossing a wad of paper into the nearest receptacle.
But this was more than just a layup, or two.
It was a chance to clinch a signature victory over top-seed Stanford in the Sacramento Regional final, thus sending the Musketeers to their first Final Four.
But, instead of instinctively placing the ball into the basket like she'd done so many times before, Jernigan guided it. No, she Google mapped it and printed directions.
In the waning seconds of Monday night's game, Jernigan found herself alone under the basket. Not once, but twice.
She missed. Both times.
Then, in an almost pre-scripted result, Stanford's Jeanette Pohlen raced the length of the court for a buzzer-beating layup to give the Cardinal a 55-53 victory.
Pressure is part of the game. It's an obstacle to be overcome, like a 1-3-1 zone that seems impenetrable.
If it was easy, those 4-foot putts at Augusta would find the cup without fail.
Xavier's gut-wrenching defeat reminded me of another local moment of magnitude - last year's Frozen Four title game between Boston University and Miami University.
The Redhawks led 3-1 with less than one minute remaining, a seemingly insurmountable deficit in hockey terms. But the battle-tested Terriers rallied for three unanswered goals to win the national title in overtime.
Redhawks goalie Cody Reichard, who surrendered BU's winning goal as a freshman, has helped lead Miami back to the Frozen Four.
The next time he's thrust into a game-saving situation, Reichard will understand. He'll brush pressure off his red sweater like a speck of lint.
Unfortunately, Jernigan's college career is over. She won't get a chance to atone for Monday night, at least not on the basketball court.
I bet the next time the East Chicago, IN native attempts a layup, she'll drain it.
When life requires a greater degree of difficulty, Jernigan will be better prepared. She now knows what it takes, to hit or miss.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Hal McCoy: link to a golden age
To my far right in the Great American Ball Park press box sits one of the last great newspapermen, a link to the golden age of baseball beat writing.
As Hal McCoy chomps on his cigar and taps on his laptop keys I can almost picture him sitting in a smoke-filled press box at an old ballpark pounding out prose on a typewriter then hopping on the train to the next town.
After 37 years on the Reds beat, the longest current tenure of any Major League beat writer, McCoy is calling it quits. Only it wasn't entirely his call.
McCoy's "early" retirement from the Dayton Daily News came in the form of a buyout. He hopes to continue to write for the DDN in some capacity, but the paper will no longer cover the Reds as a beat.
McCoy, who has continued to cover the team despite being declared legally blind, doesn't welcome the change. But, he and his lovely wife, Nadine, are looking forward to the dawning of a new life.
McCoy's ouster isn't entirely surprising.
The DDN had upped his time off each season since his illness. In the beginning, he was backed up by DDN staffers, then a stringer. This season, and most ominously, the paper has chosen to run AP wire stories for its Reds coverage. I assume this practice will continue next year.
As a know-nothing rookie stumbling my way through the clubhouse and press box roughly 10 years ago, McCoy took me under his wing. He had no reason to.
Why would a then-future Hall of Fame beat writer of more than 30 years bother to help a cub reporter writing for a weekly paper? Because that's just Hal.
McCoy's influence benefited my writing career more than even he realizes.
I learned by watching how he interacted with players and managers, how he targeted his questions in interviews, how he conducted himself in the clubhouse, press box and at batting practice.
On several occasions McCoy Hal took time to compliment me on stories I wrote. He never hesitated to answer questions, or to offer unsolicited suggestions on how to best handle certain situations.
But, the best tribute offered to McCoy was from the players -- respect. In this age of adversarial relationships between athletes and media, McCoy managed to bridge that gap.
This post reads like an obit. It is not, of course.
Hal has nearly two months remaining on the Reds beat. After that, he and Nadine can jet to their favorite haunts -- Aruba, Key West or elsewhere. They can hang on the back porch at home, savor life, make new memories.
Hal's departure isn't nearly as sad for him (he's pushing 69 years of age) as it is for the business of sports writing.
One must wonder in this age of economic downturn and new media if the role of baseball beat writer is going the way of the dinosaurs. Is Hal McCoy among the last of a dying breed? Let's hope not.
As Hal McCoy chomps on his cigar and taps on his laptop keys I can almost picture him sitting in a smoke-filled press box at an old ballpark pounding out prose on a typewriter then hopping on the train to the next town.
After 37 years on the Reds beat, the longest current tenure of any Major League beat writer, McCoy is calling it quits. Only it wasn't entirely his call.
McCoy's "early" retirement from the Dayton Daily News came in the form of a buyout. He hopes to continue to write for the DDN in some capacity, but the paper will no longer cover the Reds as a beat.
McCoy, who has continued to cover the team despite being declared legally blind, doesn't welcome the change. But, he and his lovely wife, Nadine, are looking forward to the dawning of a new life.
McCoy's ouster isn't entirely surprising.
The DDN had upped his time off each season since his illness. In the beginning, he was backed up by DDN staffers, then a stringer. This season, and most ominously, the paper has chosen to run AP wire stories for its Reds coverage. I assume this practice will continue next year.
As a know-nothing rookie stumbling my way through the clubhouse and press box roughly 10 years ago, McCoy took me under his wing. He had no reason to.
Why would a then-future Hall of Fame beat writer of more than 30 years bother to help a cub reporter writing for a weekly paper? Because that's just Hal.
McCoy's influence benefited my writing career more than even he realizes.
I learned by watching how he interacted with players and managers, how he targeted his questions in interviews, how he conducted himself in the clubhouse, press box and at batting practice.
On several occasions McCoy Hal took time to compliment me on stories I wrote. He never hesitated to answer questions, or to offer unsolicited suggestions on how to best handle certain situations.
But, the best tribute offered to McCoy was from the players -- respect. In this age of adversarial relationships between athletes and media, McCoy managed to bridge that gap.
This post reads like an obit. It is not, of course.
Hal has nearly two months remaining on the Reds beat. After that, he and Nadine can jet to their favorite haunts -- Aruba, Key West or elsewhere. They can hang on the back porch at home, savor life, make new memories.
Hal's departure isn't nearly as sad for him (he's pushing 69 years of age) as it is for the business of sports writing.
One must wonder in this age of economic downturn and new media if the role of baseball beat writer is going the way of the dinosaurs. Is Hal McCoy among the last of a dying breed? Let's hope not.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Cubs: The Un-Lovable Losers?
"I hate the Chicago Cubs," goes the oft-uttered refrain these days.
For what, squandering a century?
"No, no, let me explain," goes the popular retort. "It's their fans that I hate."
For what, being miserable? For having their hopes, dreams and aspirations crumbled annually like plastic beer cups in the Wrigley Field bleachers?
For having no better excuse for their team's ineptitude than a black cat wandered in Ron Santo's path, or a goat owner cursed them, or a Notre Dame graduate wanted a souvenir?
For enduring '69, '84, '89, '03, '07, '08 or insert season since 1908?
On the surface, disliking Cubs fans makes little sense. Pity them, yes.
That is, unless you spend time with them of course.
I know, I'm one of them.
It's not by choice, really. The Cubs are a family curse.
Before I entered the business of professional sports writing, the job where's there's no cheering, no team or player allegiance and no healthy food, I was a card-carrying Die Hard Cubs fan.
I was that blue-clad, beer-chugging, 7th-inning stretch-singing Cubs fan, who strutted into your ballpark proclaiming himself a superior fan because his team sucked for 100 years and he still cheered for them, bought tickets, souvenirs and willingly lined the players' pockets and inflated the owners' coffers despite their chronic failings.
I was that guy.
Oh, and I drank a lot. A lot. How else can you explain the aforementioned behaviors?
To be honest, I've just described the new breed of Cubs fan.
Not my generation, I'm referring to the ones so naive (and I can only assume young) enough to believe that division titles occur at 1060 W. Addison as frequently as snow in January.
The old guard, a.k.a. Me, knows this isn't so.
Which is why for the first time in my baseball life I took some solace, just a wee bit, in the Cubs being swept out of the playoffs the past two seasons.
That's how it feels, my Cubs brethren.
In order to be a true Cubs fan, you have to feel the pain, the hurt, the emotional heartache.
Humility comes swift and sudden for us, or at least it should.
So, while you're guzzling your (insert quantity) beers this week at Great American Ball Park doing your best to annoy the Reds fans around you, please consider this:
It's OK to be proud. But, arrogance has no justifiable space in Cubdom.
Despite no World Series titles since '08, the Cubs do boast a tradition like no other, aside from the Yankees.
Cubs fans have Wrigley Field, a baseball experience like no other.
We've had Tinker-to-Evers-to-Chance, Hartnett, Wilson, Banks, Williams, Jenkins, Sandberg, Maddux, Sosa (yes, him) et al. (Notice I didn't mention Roy Smalley).
The Cubs have won a few World Series too, just none since the automobile took hold.
Humility has a number: 101. That's years, folks.
So, New Breed, as you rock GABP with your "Here we go Cubbies, Here we go ..." chorus, does the pain of the past 10 decades-plus eat at your very soul? It does mine.
See, the true Cubs fan doesn't look at the glass of water and judge it to be half-full or half-empty.
The true Cubs fan asks, "When's it going to spill?".
For what, squandering a century?
"No, no, let me explain," goes the popular retort. "It's their fans that I hate."
For what, being miserable? For having their hopes, dreams and aspirations crumbled annually like plastic beer cups in the Wrigley Field bleachers?
For having no better excuse for their team's ineptitude than a black cat wandered in Ron Santo's path, or a goat owner cursed them, or a Notre Dame graduate wanted a souvenir?
For enduring '69, '84, '89, '03, '07, '08 or insert season since 1908?
On the surface, disliking Cubs fans makes little sense. Pity them, yes.
That is, unless you spend time with them of course.
I know, I'm one of them.
It's not by choice, really. The Cubs are a family curse.
Before I entered the business of professional sports writing, the job where's there's no cheering, no team or player allegiance and no healthy food, I was a card-carrying Die Hard Cubs fan.
I was that blue-clad, beer-chugging, 7th-inning stretch-singing Cubs fan, who strutted into your ballpark proclaiming himself a superior fan because his team sucked for 100 years and he still cheered for them, bought tickets, souvenirs and willingly lined the players' pockets and inflated the owners' coffers despite their chronic failings.
I was that guy.
Oh, and I drank a lot. A lot. How else can you explain the aforementioned behaviors?
To be honest, I've just described the new breed of Cubs fan.
Not my generation, I'm referring to the ones so naive (and I can only assume young) enough to believe that division titles occur at 1060 W. Addison as frequently as snow in January.
The old guard, a.k.a. Me, knows this isn't so.
Which is why for the first time in my baseball life I took some solace, just a wee bit, in the Cubs being swept out of the playoffs the past two seasons.
That's how it feels, my Cubs brethren.
In order to be a true Cubs fan, you have to feel the pain, the hurt, the emotional heartache.
Humility comes swift and sudden for us, or at least it should.
So, while you're guzzling your (insert quantity) beers this week at Great American Ball Park doing your best to annoy the Reds fans around you, please consider this:
It's OK to be proud. But, arrogance has no justifiable space in Cubdom.
Despite no World Series titles since '08, the Cubs do boast a tradition like no other, aside from the Yankees.
Cubs fans have Wrigley Field, a baseball experience like no other.
We've had Tinker-to-Evers-to-Chance, Hartnett, Wilson, Banks, Williams, Jenkins, Sandberg, Maddux, Sosa (yes, him) et al. (Notice I didn't mention Roy Smalley).
The Cubs have won a few World Series too, just none since the automobile took hold.
Humility has a number: 101. That's years, folks.
So, New Breed, as you rock GABP with your "Here we go Cubbies, Here we go ..." chorus, does the pain of the past 10 decades-plus eat at your very soul? It does mine.
See, the true Cubs fan doesn't look at the glass of water and judge it to be half-full or half-empty.
The true Cubs fan asks, "When's it going to spill?".
Baker bashing misdirected
The backlash was almost immediate.
Seconds after the release hit the wire announcing the Reds' hiring of Dusty Baker as their new manager the naysayers went to work, "Baker wears out pitchers, look what he did to Mark Prior and Kerry Wood", "Baker coddles veterans", "Baker (insert beef)".
Please understand, this isn't my personal Dusty Baker = Connie Mack diatribe. I do enjoy working with Baker. He's accomodating, professional and the most quotable and articulate Reds manager since, well ...
There are plenty of times when scribes in the press box are left scratching our heads about his in-game decisions. But, Reds fans need to look in the mirror, and take a closer look at their team.
For the first three months of the season, Baker had largely a Triple-A club hanging on in the NL Central race. Injuries have riddled this club, as did a 50-game absence of the club's best player - Joey Votto.
When Baker was hired he arrived with the most impressive big-league managerial resume of any newly-hired Reds skipper in recent memory, and that includes Sparky Anderson who had virtually none.
"Well, Baker had plenty of talent on those teams".
Isn't that the point? Find me a manager with a record worth its salt who didn't.
"Yeah, but look what he did to the Cubs ...".
Yep, he had them 5 outs from the World Series. The Reds could be so lucky.
Is Baker the man to guide the Reds to the promised land? Maybe, maybe not. He's guiding a .500 or worse ballclub currently. Not even Tony La Russa's self-proclaimed genius could change that.
Which begs the question: why is Baker getting the heat for the Reds' current condition and not GM Walt Jocketty and/or Bob Castellini?
Seconds after the release hit the wire announcing the Reds' hiring of Dusty Baker as their new manager the naysayers went to work, "Baker wears out pitchers, look what he did to Mark Prior and Kerry Wood", "Baker coddles veterans", "Baker (insert beef)".
Please understand, this isn't my personal Dusty Baker = Connie Mack diatribe. I do enjoy working with Baker. He's accomodating, professional and the most quotable and articulate Reds manager since, well ...
There are plenty of times when scribes in the press box are left scratching our heads about his in-game decisions. But, Reds fans need to look in the mirror, and take a closer look at their team.
For the first three months of the season, Baker had largely a Triple-A club hanging on in the NL Central race. Injuries have riddled this club, as did a 50-game absence of the club's best player - Joey Votto.
When Baker was hired he arrived with the most impressive big-league managerial resume of any newly-hired Reds skipper in recent memory, and that includes Sparky Anderson who had virtually none.
"Well, Baker had plenty of talent on those teams".
Isn't that the point? Find me a manager with a record worth its salt who didn't.
"Yeah, but look what he did to the Cubs ...".
Yep, he had them 5 outs from the World Series. The Reds could be so lucky.
Is Baker the man to guide the Reds to the promised land? Maybe, maybe not. He's guiding a .500 or worse ballclub currently. Not even Tony La Russa's self-proclaimed genius could change that.
Which begs the question: why is Baker getting the heat for the Reds' current condition and not GM Walt Jocketty and/or Bob Castellini?
Reds choose to Rolen over
It's not often that trading two unproven pitching prospects and a maligned third baseman for a career .284 hitter, five-time All-Star and seven-time Gold Glove Award winner would be a bad deal. But, such is the case with the Reds' acquisition of Scott Rolen.
It's so much the trade itself, but the timing. Count me among those who are scratching their heads.
Dealing for Rolen made a great deal of sense in early June when the Reds were clinging to contention in the NL Central race. But, not now.
Rolen is a great clubhouse guy, and a veteran presence that should help provide proper influence to the Reds' youngsters. He's playing close to home (Jasper, IN) and likely will have a couple more productive years before coasting into retirement.
But, this benefits the Reds how?
The Reds were relieved of a portion of Rolen's contract for next season, but not all. Add to him the contracts of Aaron Harang, Francisco Cordero and Bronson Arroyo, and the Reds are financially strapped for next season.
Edinson Volquez will be unavailable until late 2010 following Tommy John Surgey. Wait 'til next year just got postponed.
Most disturbing of all is the inclusion of Zach Stewart in the Rolen deal. The young hurler is quietly mentioned by scouts as the Reds' best pitching prospect.
Hours before the trade deadline the Rolen-to-the-Reds deal was reportedly dead. Perhaps that was just wishful thinking on the part of many at 100 Joe Nuxhall Way.
It's so much the trade itself, but the timing. Count me among those who are scratching their heads.
Dealing for Rolen made a great deal of sense in early June when the Reds were clinging to contention in the NL Central race. But, not now.
Rolen is a great clubhouse guy, and a veteran presence that should help provide proper influence to the Reds' youngsters. He's playing close to home (Jasper, IN) and likely will have a couple more productive years before coasting into retirement.
But, this benefits the Reds how?
The Reds were relieved of a portion of Rolen's contract for next season, but not all. Add to him the contracts of Aaron Harang, Francisco Cordero and Bronson Arroyo, and the Reds are financially strapped for next season.
Edinson Volquez will be unavailable until late 2010 following Tommy John Surgey. Wait 'til next year just got postponed.
Most disturbing of all is the inclusion of Zach Stewart in the Rolen deal. The young hurler is quietly mentioned by scouts as the Reds' best pitching prospect.
Hours before the trade deadline the Rolen-to-the-Reds deal was reportedly dead. Perhaps that was just wishful thinking on the part of many at 100 Joe Nuxhall Way.
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