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	Michael Street Reviews Dan Formosa's Baseball Field Guide Read his review!

J. Wagner interviewed for the latest podcast at cubscast.com

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Johanna Wagner, a lifelong baseball fan, is the only woman to go to all 30 MLB stadiums in one season, alone, for her book The View from the Stands.

Currently, Ms. Wagner is finishing her Master's in Sports Business at New York University and working on another book on baseball, called Insider's Game.

Tuesday Trivia
August 19, 2008, 7:30am,

So, each Tuesday we will throw out on of our trivia questions with a prize of the most recently reviewed book on the site. So that means this week, for a copy of the Baseball Field Guide, can you name the 4 Hall of Fame pitchers whose last name begins with the letter S? Be the first person who hasn't won any of the trivia contests to email me all four names using the form below, and include your email address and you will win a copy of the Baseball Field Guide!

The New Era: Draft picks Vs Free Agents
August 18, 2008, 9:00am,

I'm starting to see a bunch of stories/blog posts about the decision teams are going to have to make between challenging for a playoff spot and protecting themselves for next years draft. Here is the situation: teams who finish with the best 15 records in both leagues who sign what is called a "Type A" free agent must forfeit their first round draft pick to the team that free agent left. If they are among the worst 15 teams from the previous season, they keep their first round pick and give up their second. This is intended to help those terrible teams get the best talent the following year.
The problem is that teams on the cusp of being the 15th worst or best in a terrible division must decide really if they want to win a couple of extra games or not. Teams like Houston, Toronto, Florida or even Colorado may not really want to win more games since it could push them into that top 15 teams where their first round pick is not "protected". A few years ago, the Celtics were accused of losing games to gain an advantage in the following years draft. Now they are NBA champs. In baseball, top draft picks take much longer to help the big league club, so while fans might see a benefit to in the NBA, I'm not sure the same holds true in baseball. Also, in order to make the playoffs in baseball, and be in the 15 worst clubs you have to be in a terrible division, which does happen, but not that often.
The question is: Has the game evolved enough that fans can accept their team not making a big push to win in the name of next year or many even many years to come?
The upside is that it may keep a few Type A's with their clubs past the trade deadline, as it gives teams in contention who will lose Type A's some compensation for keeping them for the play off run. I've put a new poll up to try to get some feedback to see what you think.

Richard Justice, Craig Biggio and Michael Phelps
August 18, 2008, 8:15am,

Yesterday in Houston, Craig Biggio's number was retired. It sounds like a wonderful day for Biggio and his family. Richard Justice wrote this nice blog post about Biggio, but the Justice piece that really want to send you to is the one about Michael Phelps and what his presence in this years Olympics has meant. Its the power of sports to draw us together, and Justice couldn't put it together. Its what I truly love about baseball.

And a touch more for Yankee fans
August 17, 2008, 10:55am,

And while we are on the Dodgers, I thought Yankee fans might appreciate having a quick flash back to the Torre days. Here is a post from my favorite Dodger blog Mike Scioscia's Tragic Illness about a Joe Torre quote, as well as his decision making process. Good Stuff. Bet you aren't just glad Manny is in LA, but that Torre is too.

Not enough Jeff Kent and other Dodger Tales
August 17, 2008, 10:45am,

Yesterday I read that the average attendance has gone up by 6,000 fans since Manny Ramirez joined the team. They are selling Blue dred lock wigs in the team store as well. So I went to the LA Times to see what they are saying about Manny and here was this great column by TJ Simers about Jeff Kent. After reading it, I had to take a moment and just think about how sad it is that he has gotten older and we just don't get enough crazy stuff out of him anymore. He's taking on Vin Scully for 'talking too much' and suggesting the Kent is benefitting from having Manny in the line-up. Too bad sports writers don't ever get all Oprah Winfrey on players and ask him what would be so bad if he did benefit from Manny. Its still Jeff Kent taking advantage right? That doesn't happen, but I have to say I love the part where Kent points at Matt Kemp as the reason why the Dodgers are better-- the same kid he pointed at last year as being the problem with the Dodgers. Torre, ever the diplomat, agrees with Scully but gives Kent a lot of credit, as he should. Just wish we got a little more of these whacked out stories from Kent. I miss them. And then there is Manny. He is doing some great things for the Dodgers, both on the field and in the box office. This Billy Witz article shows that Manny may just be made for southern California. I can't wait to the off-season to see how that plays out. For now though, Manny is bringing the best out of the LA media, of the Dodgers and most especially Jeff Kent.

Blogs Page updated
August 16, 2008, 11:30pm

So I have just updated our MLB blogs/links page, and its a pretty good list. Some teams just don't have regular bloggers that update their sites regularly. This obviously isn't a complete list. I hope one day to have one. I love the sports blog nation sites as a whole, but there are a few other networks where the sites aren't as good. The homeplate sites are just hard to read. I included them anyway in a few cases, but not in everyone. So here is what I need from you. If you love a blog, tell me. Or tell everyone on the messageboard. We want to find all the good writers out there, and those that have something great to say. Once the list grows a bit more, well we will start voting on which ones are the best. If you are a blogger, don't hesitate to point your site out to me. Its not a guarantee that it makes the permanent list, but if you have something fresh, you will make it in the blog. If you think one we have listed shouldn't be here, then again, go to the messageboard or drop me a note.

Signed Draft picks
August 16, 2008, 9:30am

So all but three of this years first round picks signed contracts with their clubs. Of the three clubs who didn't sign their picks, really only one, the Washington Nationals didn't sign their draft pick, since the Yankees pick chose to go to college rather than turn pro, and the Mariners have more time to sign theirs through some loophole which doesn't restrict the signing time of those who have finished their college senior year. The Pittsburgh Pirates are one of the more interesting last minute cases with how they handled their first round pick. Why is it interesting? Well, MLB determines what they call slot value for draft picks through the first 3 rounds and strongly encourages each team to stay within that slot price. Though there are teams that stick to slot price, once one team signs a player "above slot" it throws the whole system a little out of whack, making one team more desirable to play for since the player suddenly has leverage to negotiate a higher contract with that team. The guy who now runs the Pirates, Frank Coonelly, was the man who devised and managed the slotting system for MLB until he joined the Pirates organization last year. In signing their pick, Pedro Alavarez for $6 million dollars the Pirates sent the signal that they are willing to go way above slot, and that their COO, Coonelly doesn't feel too much obligation to his old bosses or hisold work. The Pirates, unlike a few other teams, chose to give Alvarez more money but to not give in to his desire to have a major league contract. The Major league contract requires that a player is added to the 40-man roster, which begins the count down until he is arbitration eligible. There are two down-sides for the club. That ties up a roster spot, which for a club like the Pirates where players are sent up and down a lot without anyone going on the DL, that reduces their flexibility. Second, a player who may not be as close to the big leagues has less time to develop, since arbitration comes just a few years after being eligible. If the team isn't convinced the player will be on the major league roster by that time than they might be throwing even more money at a guy who isn't contributing. The Reds gave their first rounder the major league contract, saying that with all the free agents, they should have no trouble allocating that slot to Yonder Alonso for the next several years. Though the Pirates could have let Alvarez go, and received a similar pick in next years draft, they really are trying to rebuild quickly and losing a year of a players development could hurt that plan. The Bucco's not only went above slot for their first pick, but they spent $10 million on all of this years draft picks, which according to Dejan Kovacevic is about $2 million more than any team paid all of its picks in 2007. That does show they are committed to turning things around in Steeltown, and that money split among 11+ players is quite the bargain if you look at what major league ready talent is going for. Kovacevic says that even Boras must think the Pirates are a new improved organization, since he allowed access to Alavarez which he would not have granted to the old organization. Ineresting tidbit.

The Washington Nationals, run by Frank Wren who could be the dumbest guy in baseball, chose to stick with the slot system and lose this years pick. Sure, they save money. Sure they aren't giving some young unproven talent a ton of money before they ever help the team out. Sure, they make Bud Selig happy. Oh, and lastly, sure they are going to get a similar pick next year in what might be a better draft. Well, thats all well and good, but who is going to take slot money in the first round next year? A fourth rounder happy with being chosen in the first round? And how does that improve the Nationals? While the Pirates are taking steps to get better at an organization, from the ground up, the Nationals are exactly the same team they were at the start of this year. Frank Wren hasn't even attempted to lock up his franchise player, Ryan Zimmerman to a long term deal that actually would save his team money as Zimmerman goes through his arbitration years. If you are looking around the middle atlantic states for a team to root for, as much as I don't like Peter Angelos, I would have to say take a second look at the Orioles. The Nationals aren't going to do much to win you over anytime soon.

Finally, something new!
August 15, 2008, 11:05pm

So I had cable TV yesterday but no internet. The funny thing is, I have felt like I have nothing new to write, nothing new to point you to. Well, I watched Sportscenter last night for the first time in 2 weeks, and it seems they have nothing new to talk about either. Buster Olney made me feel much better when, four days after the trade, he is still debating whether the Adam Dunn thing was actually good for the D'backs. Sure the numbers look great, but then why do all those in baseball doubt whether he really is the man? Thanks Buster for confirming what I have been wondering out loud for days. If you have thoughts, please share them on the message board where there is some great debate happening, and a wonderful example my Mike Street of why batting average can't tell the whole story.

So, in my struggle to find something new, and to update the site, I have been going through a ton of baseball blogs, just seeing what is out there. I found this gem from Ghost of Paul Noce for cubs fans, but if you haven't been to Wrigley, read it because its good for you. It's a nice top 10 reasons to like the Cubs/Wrigley. There is also this sites least favorite things about Cub fandom.

A little history, and some loose ends
August 14, 2008, 9:30am

As John Romano ponders the end of the season for the Rays, he takes a look back at some past pennant races to see how major injuries affected their outcome. Though the story really has nothing to do with the Rays, it is kind of a fun stroll down memory lane, from the 2007 Padres injuries to Mike Cameron and Milton Bradley to the 1967 broken leg of Bob Gibson. Kind of a fun piece.

I gave a trivia question on Monday, who are the 5 shortstops to win their leagues MVP since 1990 and never got a winner. Here they are: Cal Ripken, Barry Larkin, Alex Rodriguez, Miguel Tejada and Jimmy Rollins. Hold onto that one, its a good one.

Quick Hits
August 13, 2008, 10:30am

Well, I just have a few quick things to throw out there with all the crazy blowouts that occurred last night. Needless to say, the Rangers need pitching. The A's have used 47 players this season, second only to the Rangers who have used 50. 9 Oakland players have made their debuts this year. Last night the lowly A's beat the division leading Rays 2-1. The Rays meanwhile are suffering an onslaught of injuries. Scott Kazmir is back, but struggling. Evan Longoria went on the DL and Cool Carl Crawford might be out for the rest of the season. These are the telling weeks, and what happens in the next few days may give us some big insight into the rest of the season. So while we take a moment to look at all the goings on, I found this quick tidbit by Alan Schwarz about Bernie Mac who passed away last week. Though I can't say I was a huge fan, this piece speaks nicely to what it is to be a kid and love our guy.

Louisville
August 12, 2008, 10:10am

Sorry for the lack of a post yesterday, was traveling to Louisville, and thought I would have a chance mid-day, but that chance never came. Spent the early part of the day at the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. Its a pretty interesting tour, though also pretty short. You could do the whole thing in under 3 hours easily. Couple of quick things I learned on the tour. All clubs buy their players bats for them, but there are three players who purchase there own bats, Alex Rodriguez, Ivan Rodriguez and Ken Griffey Jr. They purchase their own because then they can donate them to charities of their choice without the clubs permission. Even the broken ones are property of the club. Now there are other companies that supply bats to players, so there could be more who buy their own, but these are the three that purchase Louisville Sluggers. Also, the two players that currently use the heaviest bats in the majors are Josh Hamilton and Alphonso Soriano, though Sorinano's is longer than Hamilton's as well. Soriano has the longest bat in the major leagues today. Couple of other quick things, Louisville Slugger brands the grade of wood on the bat, 125 is the best, if you see 185, don't bother with it. They also brand their ash bats by burning their name into the wood where the bat is the weakest, so if you have one you always want to make sure their name is either pointing straight up or straight down. If its positioned in any other way, it is more likely to break. Louisville Slugger does make maple bats as well. Less than 5% of major leaguers used maple bats prior to 2001, but after Barry Bonds started his run towards the record books, many players switched. Now over 60% use maple bats. The maple bats cannot sustain the burning of the branding into the bat, so those bats just get a sticker with the logo. The museum also has a movie, which is pretty neat, with a bunch of present and former players talking about hitting.

Later in the evening, we went to a Louisville Bats game. The Bats, the AAA team for the Reds, were hosting the Columbus Clippers, AAA for the Washington Nationals. The stadium is new, has great amenities, and is reminiscent of most of the new spring training facilities in Arizona. The food does include some state fair specialties, like funnel cakes and there are lots of brat choices, but really nothing too outstanding. And that is really how I would describe the whole experience: not outstanding. An Elvis Impersonator came out before the game, driving a beautiful pink caddy, and threw out the first pitch, and then went and stood out behind the outfield wall to greet fans. The scoreboard entertainment consisted of the ball under a hat shuffle, a video race around the bases by milk jugs sponsored by the milk company, and some strange video, one other than might have been sponsored by the Kentucky lottery. Some of it was hard to understand. The team also lists both line-ups, but doesn't give you positions or jersey numbers, annoying to those of us actually trying to follow the game. Here is a pic of the park. I'm sorry to say, its the most interesting one of the 20 or so I took.
Louisville Slugger Field

The good thing was the game was pretty good. There were quite a few errors made, but the pitching was strong. Neither team had any huge prospects starting, though Aaron Boone started for the Clippers, and Rob Machowiak started for the Bats. Paul Janish who has long been thought to be the Reds next great defensive short-stop made some outstanding plays, and did the Bats first baseman Kevin Barker, though he also flubbed a few too. Janish, though, can't hit, and may never get a real shot in the big leagues because of it. In the later innings, we also got to see two highly touted pitchers, Carlos Fisher and Josh Roenicke, both who touched in the high '90's. Fisher was darn good, throwing two innings and allowing one hit, but Roenicke couldn't quite keep guys off base and only got one out before being pulled from the game. Fisher had been a starter and is in the process of being converted to a reliever. Perhaps by the end of next year, these two will be with the big club and the Reds bullpen will be lights out... they still need a little time to grow though. The baseball did hold my interest, but he overall game experience did not. Though we are in the heart of baseball country, the half filled stands on this beautiful night was kind of sad to see. Event he PA announcer wasn't excited to be there. I can live with a baseball focused experience if I am getting a lot of information about the game, but since I didn't even have players positions or numbers except when the guy was at-bat, well, it was difficult to stay interested. For one of the premier AAA franchises, and a former (though long former) major league city, it was difficult to understand. Overall, the night was disappointing, despite the Bats late inning rally, and extra inning win.

Now, about this Adam Dunn trade. Early yesterday, when I heard the Diamondbacks had lost Orlando Hudson I thought guess it is Joe Torre's lucky year. But the D'backs went out and got Dunn. They give up a young player coming off surgery, who should be an outstanding pitcher when he makes it all the way back. He is still young though. Though I said a couple of days ago that the Reds should get rid of Dunn, I didn't expect it to happen so quickly. I also thought they would get a little more major league ready players for him. Its been no secret here that I loved what Wayne Krivsky was doing for the team, and was interested to continue to watch it. Jocketty seems to be making changes but not any faster or any better, and Hal McCoy seems to agree with me. Krivsky was fired because the losing needed to stop. Now, with the Reds having gone 2 for their last 16 games, and their only big bat out of the line-up looks like the losing will continue. Glad Dunn is gone, but would have given anything to have seen what Wayne Krivsky would have gotten for him. As McCoy points out, Reds fans needs to hunker down and find more patience. The other problem is that now Dusty Baker has to rely even more on his young players, something he isn't very good at. The Reds, at least this morning, seem headed back to quagmire. I worry that Reds owner Castellini is going to be a lot like Peter Angelos of the Orioles, continually getting in the way of his baseball people. At least its not my money that he's wasting.

More on Brian Giles
August 10, 2008, 8:40am

Got an email from Brian Giles' agent, Joe Bick, yesterday in response to my post and thought I would share it with his permission. Here is what he had to say:

"Anyone who questions Brian Giles' competitiveness or desire to win, including Nick Cafardo, obviously doesn't know Brian Giles. You do know him, and I doubt you would. While I will not acknowledge the other team involved in the waiver claim, I will say that no one on the outside of the situation is aware of all the factors, information or circumstances that contributed to the decision Brian made. For anyone without that knowledge to offer judgement is ridiculous. Apparently, without knowing all those factors, others are more capable of making the decision that is right for Brian than he was able to make for himself. Bull!"

So there is a little insight that no one else either has or is interested in printing. Additionally, Bill Center did a little Q & A with Giles in the San Diego Union-Tribune to clear up a few things. Just think this is an interesting window into the business.

Brian Giles
August 9, 2008, 10:05am

So Brian Giles turned down the opportunity to move across the country and play for an organization in a pennant race, and increase his salary. His playing time most certainly would be cut, and there was no guarantee about his contract for next year. Perhaps, Brian doesn't want the pressure of playing on the east coast. He is a very southern California guy. I had the good fortune to spend some time with him in spring training, for my upcoming book. I found a really hard worker and a guy who takes a lot of pride in what he can do. In reading both Bill Center's article for the San Diego Tribune and Nick Cafardo's from the Boston Globe, I found a ton of speculation. Cafardo questions Giles heart, without ever talking to the guy. Its Center's article that points to some confusion over a change in the Padres public story. While they, in theory, are publicly saying they are continuing the rebuilding process, that may not actually be true. The question I wonder is if Giles decision was based on the thought that the Padres could still make moves, and perhaps grow the payroll, for next year. If he knew payroll was going to get cut significantly maybe his choice would be different. Also, think of it this way. He's a 38 year old outfielder. He could go to the Red Sox and play in a pennant race, where there is no guarantee of a playoff, and no guarantee of a contract for next year. The Red Sox would most likely buy out his contract for next year. He would have to become a free agent after two months of possibly riding the bench. He would also have no guarantee of another team wanting his 38 year old service. On the other hand, he could stay in San Diego, where they say they want to work to contend for next year. He could ride out the rest of this lost season, and be part of what could be a contending team next year. If the Padres stay true to that plan, and do keep him, he could be part of a team that brings at least a division championship back to the Padres, the team he grew up rooting for. The wildcard in this is that the Padres may buy out his contract, which will also leave him as a free agent, and not in San Diego. In the end, I think he is being short-sighted. The Padres aren't going to be as loyal to him as he may be being to them. Its the way the business works. Brian played for the Pirates for many years, and when we spoke, he talked of how even though the guys on the team knew they would might lose a ton of games in any particular season, they each worked hard to win as many as possible. The didn't let each other ease up. Brian, I believe, wants to win. I hope he doesn't regret missing this chance.

Brian Giles and Watching the Reds host the Astros
August 8, 2008, 10:35am

Before I get to last nights game, I have to say I am avidly watching what happens with the Red Sox claiming Brian Giles off waivers. Most likely nothing will actually happen since the Red Sox don't actually have a place for him to play, assuming their team stays healthy. It was probably just a move designed to keep him away from the Rays, but still is fascinating. Keep in mind when you see the drop in his home run totals that he moved into one of the biggest ballparks around in 2005. He also spent the last two years playing with injuries. Here is the Tom Krasovic article from the San Diego Union Tribune, and the Amalie Benjamin story from the Boston Globe, for some different perspectives on what's going on here.

Now onto the Reds! I missed the Reds BP but was able to see the Astros. I had forgotten Darin Erstad was on their team... why, I am not sure. Today though I was excited to see the youngsters for both teams play. Hunter Pence, who I had not seen play, was milling about swinging a bat outside of the cage, waiting for his turn. Since I had not seen him swing before, I was more than surprised to see how steep his practice swings were. It was almost like a golfers swing. When he stepped into the cage it didn't change much, and he popped up his two first pitches into the top of the cage, and the third above the shortstop position. His last two pitches sailed high in the air to center field, but were easy catches for players roaming the outfield. Most of his at-bats in the cage were like that, and it made me check his average, .274 going into last night. Pence is long limbed, and with his sock pulled up honestly looks like a young colt. His swing is perfectly suited for Minute-Maid, and for Great American where we were last night. With his long limbs, that upswing cold certainly place enough balls high and deep enough to land in the seats in left field. I was excited to see what would happen later in the game.

Now, to diverge from the baseball for a moment, it was ladies night at Great American Ballpark (GAB). Despite giving all the women these cute white hats with a pink wishbone C, they were also set to introduce a "new" mascot. I say new since Rosie Red had existed in the late 30's and 40's, sort of a precursor to Rosie the Riveter. When I was young, they had a girls fan club called Rosie Reds, which died off for a number of years but was reinstated about the time they moved into the new ballpark. Former team President, John Allen, gets some credit for its reinstatement I think, as he gets credit for the Reds Hall of Fame (well worth the trip) and for all the retired numbers. Now though, the club encourages girls athletics, and provides scholarships for you female athletes, something we weren't encouraged to do when I was young. Title IX does have some positive effects. Well, last night they introduced a new Rosie Red, complete with a crazy story about this one being the granddaughter of the original. The original Mr. Red was not around, but Mr. RedLegs was, who was also a recently reintroduced version of a mascot used in the 1950's. (To avoid confusion with the red scare in the 1950's the Reds returned to their original name the Redlegs during that time.) The new Rosie is quite cute, but in her introduction procession had a rather sexy saunter that wasn't appropriate for a mascot directed at young kids. When she appeared near my section later (with a different hair style) she was better, however. Here is a shot of Rosie up close, taken with my camera phone, to give you an idea.
The new Rosie the Red.

Now to the game. Usually, a game in August between two teams way below .500 tends to be quite a bore, but this one presented me with a few opportunities. First, the Reds are said to be undergoing a youth movement, though with Corey Patterson blocking a roster spot, that can't be too sincere. Still, I was excited to see Joey Votto and Jay Bruce up close. As I said, Hunter Pence was also a draw, and then of course, there was Roy Oswalt pitching. He really is that good. Here is a composite shot of him, for the guy in the Oswalt throwback jersey.

Josh Fogg was pitching for the Reds, and I believe for the past time in a starting spot. Aaron Harang is due to come off the Dl in the next week, and Fogg should be moved to the bullpen when that happens. There is some talk of leaving Fogg in the rotation and sending young Homer Baily back to AAA, but that would be a big mistake. Let the kid learn how to pitch in the big leagues. This team isn't contending, so let him learn so that next year they might be able to. (My two cents on that!) Fogg gave up a double in the first to Miguel Tejada who scored that inning, and the loaded the bases for Hunter Pence. Here is a shot of Pence's golf club swing, though he got enough behind it to drive it out of the park for a grand slam. Guess there is nothing wrong with that swing.
Hunter Pence hits a grand slam.

So the Reds got someone on base in every inning but the 5th, and yet didn't score until 7th, Oswalts last inning. It was also the only inning where the Reds got more than one runner onboard at a time. As I said, I was anxious to see Votto and Bruce play but offensively I had very little chance. Votto was a very aggressive hitter, swing at Oswalts first offering many times, but on a few getting quite lucky and getting a solid hit. He went 3 for 5 for the night, and drove in the Reds first run in the 7th. Jay Bruce had a tougher time at the plate and in the field. He tried to make a basket catch of a long fly ball hit by Brad Ausmus and bobble it allowing the #8 hitter to get on base. He also only got on base once, with a double, but ran to third despite the ball being hit in front of him, and was thrown out. The thing is, I can live with that. Its a mistake he will most likely never make again. Adam Dunn, on the other hand, is constantly making mistakes in the field and on the bases, yet because of his power numbers no one cares. The gentleman in front asked me if I thought the Reds should keep Dunn. I said no, and I stand by that. His numbers can be replaced by some of these young kids as they develop and by a cheaper reclamation project next year. I want to add that he is part of that old Reds mentality. The one which prevailed when Carl Lindner owned the team, and the Reds were happy to play .400 ball. He doesn't work at his craft, and he can only set a bad example for the kids coming a long. We as fans do love the long ball, and there aren't many consistent home run threats on the Reds without him, but I honestly think the Reds will be better without him.
After Oswalt left the game, the Reds threatened to come back. And I have to say, in August, it was good to see them still fighting for the win. A few years ago, they would have walked to the plate thinking about their post-game plans, but the team fought to come back. The Astros bullpen helped them out quite a bit too. Until Valverde entered in the 9th, I think Cecil Cooper and Roy Oswalt were biting their nails. Valverde had a tough time as well, allowing a triple to Brandon Phillips, then a single to Adam Dunn, and a walk to Edwin Encarnacion before getting Corey Patterson to line out. Despite an amazing --Endy Chavez like-- catch that Patterson made to rob the Astros of a home run, Patterson should not be taking up a spot on this team. I don't care how bad another guy is, Patterson should be a bench player or a AAA guy who fills in because of injury, not a starter. A caller into local talk radio asked if Patterson was married to Dusty's daughter. Though doubtful, it would explain a lot!

Quick Trivia: This question and answer were put on the Reds scoreboard yesterday so there will be no prize, since some of you might have been there. You will get bragging rights, as I will give you credit tomorrow! Since 1990, 5 different shortstops have won their leagues MVP award, name them. Again, check out the poll and let me know if you would like to continue the daily trivia questions. I need to hear from all of you!

Lesser Moves
August 7, 2008, 9:35am

So with all the big stuff that happened last week, and my own travel, I thought I would take a moment to point out a few of the smaller moves teams have made in the past few weeks. Some will have little effect on the team making the move, but could help a team, who say just lost their catcher, or something. The Nationals went crazy last week and released all their veterans. Well, not all, but catchers Paul Lo Duca and Johnny Estrada and shortstop Felipe Lopez. Lopez was then signed by the Cardinals, where he should be able to help out. He's a strong enough presence that in that line-up he can do some little things, even as a pinch hitter, to help. He also won't have to do the big things often, like was the case when he got to play in Washington.

Seattle, as expected, finally got around to designating Jose Vidro for assignment. Vidro had become pretty anemic, but if you are hunting for a player to help you in the last month, he might be a decent enough bat to use as a pinch hitter here and there. More likely, you would bring one of your kids up, but, well, someone could take a chance on Vidro.

Livan Hernandez was released by the Twins, and yesterday was picked up by the Rockies who are desperate for pitching. Livan could have some success with the team, as he has been doing this long enough he knows how to pitch, and if he can induce enough ground ball outs, well, he may at least finish the season. Thought the Rockies are still 7.5 games out of the West, its a terrible division, one week ago they were 12 games out. They don't really have the pitching to win a 5 game series in the playoffs, but what a great story if they came from so far behind to make it to the playoffs again!. Even the tickets sold as they came close might make the Monforts enough money that they would re-sign Matt Holiday, and I have to root for that. They also got Jeff francis back from the DL, so look for them to make it a good run.

Did I miss a significant move? Drop me a note, and let me know. Tonight, going to see the Reds as they open a series against the Astros. Haven't seen the Astros this year, so this could be fun.

Barry Bonds and Ken Davidoff
August 7, 2008, 9:05am

Davidoff gets a lot of credit for today's post, since his entry in his blog really made me nod my head. Today is the anniversary of Bonds breaking Hank Aaron's home run record, and as Davidoff says he should be the home run king. Shocking that I write that, I know, but there were so many within baseball that turned the other way, or even worked to hide the use of performance enhancing drugs that they deserve the king of PED's to also be the king of the home run. I know, that is unfair to us as fans. We shouldn't have to recognize him as the king of anything, but, well, unfortunately we do. He needs to sit there to remind this generation, as Pete Rose did for the last, that success comes with responsibility. Davidoff's second point, which is also right on target, is that if Bonds had been a nicer guy throughout his career some team might have picked him up. But in a season where Sidney Ponson was pitching well, but released because of chemistry issues, where Manny Ramirez was given away because of chemistry issues, a team would have to be out of their minds to take o Bonds and his chemistry issues--- and I'm not even talking about those that came from BALCO.

Davidoff also pointed me to this Jonathan Littman piece about how the lead investigator in the BALCO case may have done things so improperly that the case against Bonds will never see a courtroom. The case against Bonds will, most likely, be dropped. Bonds will take that to mean vindication. He will still receive punishment though because he will never be voted into the Hall of Fame.

Tip of the cap to Davidoff.

The Dayton Dragons
August 6, 2008, 10:05am

Last night, I went to a Dayton Dragons (low A affiliate of the Reds) and saw them host the Ft. Wayne Wizards (low A affiliate of the Padres). It was an exceptionally great experience, too. The park opens only an hour before game time, so you don't get to see any BP or practice, unless you stand outside the outfield gates much earlier. I was there early enough to see the Wizards pitching coach working with one young pitcher on the bullpen. The "student" was holding a stick, about 18 inches long and practicing his pitching motion. I had heard about this exercise, but had never seen anyone doing it. The stick, because you don't let go as you would a ball, causes you to focus on the follow through. Where is the stick when the motion is done? I believe it also helps to make sure the pitcher's hand stays in the right position so that they don't, in effect, push the ball towards the plate at their release point. I was too far away to hear the conversation, but was able to watch the entire practice.

The Dragons are one of the most popular minor league teams. They consistently draw a half-million+ fans each season. They were 8th in all of minor league baseball in attendance last year, and have sold out eight consecutive seasons. And 5th/3rd Field is one of the examples of a minor league ballpark actually revitalizing a neighborhood. When I lived in Dayton, the first 25 years of my life of so, there were no business anywhere near the current ballpark area, save one bar which served some local bands. Now there is some nightlife, some revitalized office buildings, and some interest in downtown. The ballpark doesn't sit in the most scenic of locations, but it is a lovely reprieve from the urban center of downtown Dayton. Here is a shot at game time.
5th/3rd Field at game time

Though it seemed as if there might be a giveaway last night, it was only for the Dragons season ticket holders, of which most fans were. Each season ticket holder was given a voucher good for a large umbrella, in green and navy. I didn't get one, but most everyone around me did.

The ballpark is quite nice, with great amenities and wide concourses open to the field. There are a myriad of food choices, much more than for any other minor league ballpark I have ever been to, let alone a low A ball. And there are a ton of seating options, including some great lawn seats. The section down the left field lawn is reserved for groups, and with your purchase you get a "Dragon's Lair" ball cap. The section in left center, with a tent for shade, is another group section, and a different hat option was being given away. As I walked around, I counted 5 give-aways to specific types of ticket holders, which is one great way to ensure that people are buying tickets, and keeping the Dragons high in attendance year after year.

Another way to do so, it to make the experience fun for the entire family, and the Dragons do that as well. As many of you know, I am in 10-15 minor league parks a season, and the entertainment under such circumstances gets a bit stale. There was quite a bit of fresh material here, and even the recirculated stuff was done very well. Often the on-field personnel have no connection to the entertainment the team puts on, but there were some exceptions here. The Dragons have two mascots, Heater, and the female mascot named Gem. (Dayton is the Gem City, why, I do not know.) When the players run onto the field, they are introduced one at a time, and run on through a Heater and Gem gate, giving the monsters high-fives. In the case of the following shot, it was a low-five, but you get the point.
Dragon players are introduced.

Did I mention the Dragons sit on the 3rd base side? My guess is that its the shaded side during day games.

Heater and Gem are everywhere throughout the game and the kids love them. The team also does a funny bit with 5 male senior citizens called the "retirement village people" and dress these fellas up in Village people type costumes, and send them onto the dugout to try to dance to Macho Man and YMCA before the 3rd and 6th innings. Its quite cute, believe it or not. Other between innings activities include more things aimed at kids, but the combo makes it truly an all-ages experience. There was also a moment that moved me beyond any minor league experience I have had. The Dragons, along with their partner Anthem Blue Cross/ Blue Shield celebrated a young fan who this past January was diagnosed with brain cancer and has been undergoing severe treatment for it for the past 6 months, including brain surgery. In the middle of the 5th inning, the players, from both teams, stepped to the baselines and Fourteen-year-old Chris Eckert was wheeled out to home plate by his brother followed by his parents. Chris was introduced, and with a brief note about him in the program, immediately got a standing ovation from the crowd. Then the team played a tape of a Dragons player hitting a home run on the scoreboard, and once the ball left the park on the screen, Chris was told to "run the bases", or have his brother push him around the diamond. The Wizards players all extended their hands so the young guy could get high-fives as he passed them on the first base side, and the Dragons did the same on the 3rd base side. The kids smile when he "crossed home" was bright enough to see in the stands. All the players lined the field, too. Chris was given a certificate from the Manager saying he was an honorary Dragon, and then he and his family had their picture taken with some members of the Dragons. The whole thing took maybe 15 minutes, and I have no doubt had a huge impact on that young man and his family. The game resumed, showing no impact from the ceremony. Yet, the integration of the players into that moment was a big deal. The added impact was immeasurable. Was glad to see it during the game as well, not just as part of pre-game ceremonies. Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield paid to have that happen, I'm sure, but it had to be one of the finest moments of sponsorship I have ever seen.

Now, finally, to the game. Jeremy Horst started for the Dragons, and rarely reached 90mph, yet he seemed to have a slider that got a lot of the young batters on the Wizards to chase. He was quite effective through 5 innings of work, only giving up one run, and really only getting into trouble once in the 5th inning. The opposing pitcher, was Cory Luebke, a highly touted pick lefty in the Padres system. His motions seemed a little too jerky, and I didn't think he could last long or have enough control, but he got through 6 innings, walking one and hitting one. After his first walk, he did end up making one terrible pitch which the Dragons short-stop was able to connect on and drive out of the park to give the Dragons a 2-run lead that they would hold onto. The Dragons also had one highly touted batter, Brandon Waring, who made a lot of contact. he does have a beautiful, flat swing. His two first plate appearances yielded to very hard hits, though both were right at someone. He ended up getting on base twice, one of which was a well placed double. The Dragons also had a very good defensive second baseman, who was listed as SS in the program. Following the Dragons brawl last week that ended with 15 players suspended, the Dragons released their 2nd baseman, Angel Cabrera, who many blame for the beginning of the brawl. Cabrera had some aggression issues, which he took onto the field, and against the other team. Cabrera's rough slide into second was one of the main causes of the brawl. Anyway, I am guessing here, but Zack Cozart must have moved positions from short to second, and did a fantastic job last night. Neftali Soto, the shortstop, was great with a bat, but rushed too much on his throws to first. The last player to mention is Aquido Gonzalez, who came on in the 8th and pitched two innings of relief. Last night was only his 4th appearance for the Dragons, and he looked good enough that he may not be with them long. He's small, but could throw in the mid-90's and overpowered the Wizards. Overall, it was a great game, where you could really get a sense of the two teams. Both are vying for a play-off spot, though as a second-half wild card. Want more info about the Dragons? Drop me a note!

Few tidits
August 5, 2008, 8:10am

Joba Chamberlain left the Yankees game with stiffness in his shourlder. Chances are this is nothing, maybe he was a little dehydrated in the Texas heat, but it also shows it doesn't matter how careful you are with a guy, something can still happen.

Last week, when the Yanks acquired Damarso Marte and Xavier Nady from the Pirates, there were some inaccurate stories about who the prospects that were being sent to Pittsburgh were. Jesse Spector of the New York Daily News writes an interesting piece about the chaos of the two pitchers who were reportedly traded but were not actually. It's an interesting perspective to put out there. The Daily News would have you believe they never make such mistakes, but I think we all know that isn't quite true.

Tom Hardricourt writes about the Brewers, and the argument between Prince Fielder and Manny Parra. Though Fielder didn't handle the situation correctly, it sounds to me like he might have had a point. The disagreement began after an inning where Parra gave up 6 earned runs to the Reds-- the opposing pitcher drove in three, I believe. Parra was retreating to the clubhouse and Fielder took exception to Parra disappearing after his putrid performance. Fielder will be fined, and may have had to apologize to his teammates, as the clubhouse didn't open to reporters right after the game as is the norm. But, I have to wonder if a veteran pitcher might have gone to Parra and suggested that he should stay and watch the next at-bats. The other tidbit that struck me as interesting is that Ray Durham was one of the guys holding back Fielder, as he was once the guy holding back Bonds from Jeff Kent. Durham provided no quotes, not surprisingly. Still, would have liked to hear what he said on the way back to the hotel after the game.

Lastly, Derrick Goold writes about Tony LaRussa, the senior strategist among managers these days. LaRussa, who has been constantly shuffling his line-up this season to keep his guys fresh is shifting gears to play his A team everyday for the final stretch run. It's a nice piece for seeing into the mind of a Manager, especially a veteran one.

Real Winners in the Manny Fire Sale!
August 4, 2008, 8:30am

So, I have lived in NYC for the past 13 years. During that time, I have witnessed the re-ascension of the Bronx Bombers. I remember coming out of work late on night in October of 1996 to truck loads of people hanging out of their cars screaming "Let's go Yankees" as they drove up and down Broadway. In 1998, I remember talking with a friends son who was a Yankee fan and saying, if you have to like an American League team, you might as well like the Yankees. They were darn good that year too. Perfect baseball. Then the media took over. The New York media, with its 7+ newspapers scrutinized every story and lionized all the players. In an amazing game in July 2004, Derek Jeter dove into the stands to catch a ball against the Red Sox, and the next day he was called a hero in the text above one newspapers masthead. Below it? I picture of an Iraq hostage who had been decapitated. It's things like that that started making me root against the Yankees for awhile. It wasn't Jeter who juxtaposed his name against the prisoner, it was the media. And so, I question a lot of the things that newspapers do. So, why do I bring this up today? Well, I just read a ridiculous column in the Boston Globe written by Kevin Cullen which will make me root against the Red Sox and for the Dodgers for quite a while. Once you get through the name-dropping section, you get to the 'we in Boston are superior to those who live elsewhere' section. Though his point about the Red Sox traveling secretary remaining with the team while his attacker his gone is a valid one, it is hidden amongst the pomposity. He even derides those members of the 2004 World Series championship team that ended the 86 year dry spell. Perhaps he is trying to question what fun the team will be going forward, but all I know is this is the kind of article that makes me begin to sour on a team.

Real Winners in the Manny Fire Sale!
August 3, 2008, 9:50am

Seed Newsvine
Reporters often spend so much time trying to get an accurate read on a situation that they miss the forest for the trees. Kurt Streeter may be one of those guys, but in his column today he is reminded what it means to be fan when your team gets the big prize of the trade market. Its the fans that will sit in the left-field pavilion that are going to have the most fun in the next two months. They could be catching his dingers or just watching his antics up-close. Either way, whether the team make it deep into the post-season or not, the team gave its loyal fans in the outfield something to get excited about. It also gave them something to tie them to the 2008 Dodgers forever.
One of the things I often spend time explaining to players is that fans may seem a little crazy when it comes to their team, but really, its how the team allows fans to relate to each other that is important. Long after Manny is gone to a bigger contract, these fans will remember their shared experience in the August that they rooted for him. The will talk about the home run last night, or about some crazy thing he will do in the coming months, and they will smile. And on occasion, its that chance to smile that fans pay for when they purchase their ticket. Streeter gets caught up in the joy of these fans. I love it when that happens.

Trivia
August 3, 2008, 9:40am

No winner for the trivia questions from yesterday, so we are going to let it ride one more day. Who did the Astros get from Boston when they sent the Red Sox Larry Anderson in 1990?
Also, please remember to respond to the LoveMyTeam Poll to determine if we will keep this trivia thing going. I need to hear from as many of you as I can. Thanks!

Lastly, I also want to remind you that this site survives because of advertising, and by its users clicking on the links. If you are a regular user of the MLB.com store, Stubhub, Amazon or any of our other advertisers, I ask that you click through to those sites from LoveMyTeam. That will keep us going and growing long into the future!

Surprise Pitching Performances
August 3, 2008, 9:30am

Tampa Bay should be very proud of resting their youthful exuberance while working the counts last night. They succeeded in driving Kenny Rogers from the game after throwing 109 pitches in 3 and 1/3 innings. It was a game plan certain to work, since the Tigers bullpen is its weakest link. Rogers outing was the first time that a pitcher has thrown that many pitches in that few innings since Steve Avery did it in 1997 for Boston. The interesting thing was Rogers struck out 8 batters, but went to full counts on 14 batters. The Rays also set a franchise record for wins last night, which is important to note. It was also their 5th sell-out of the season.

On the other side of the country, Barry Zito was reminding folks why he was worth $126 million as he outdueled Jake Peavy last night. John Shea tells us that for one night the Zito of old showed up, and his magical curve ball was back. Is it a fluke? Or has Zito found his game again? Still, so surprised that the Giants haven't brought Rick Peterson in to work with Zito, but if he finds his way again with Peterson, well, thats a few dollars saved.

By the way, John Shea also writes about how the NL West could go down as the second worst division of all time. We were all wrong when we thought it would be the strongest, but how wrong, no one could have imagined.

Sponsor for Ladies Night
August 2, 2008, 11:40pm

Would it be inappropriate of me to call for a boycott of Motrin IB All-Star Ladies night at Citizens Bank Ballpark on Tuesday Aug. 5th? Come on... doesn't that Motrin IB sponsor for a ladies night stink? Like its the only product we need... unless they are giving you a great prize that you would pay twice as much for...don't go.

Mariners are Peanut allergy friendly
August 2, 2008, 11:25pm

So, looking through the recent press releases I came across one about how the Mariners have reserved two sections at two games, August 5th and September 9th, for those allergic to peanuts. The sections will be specially cleaned prior to the game, and signs will be posted so to help keep those enjoying peanuts clear from this section. Though I never thought about those with severe allergies, I still question whether the ballpark can keep those with allergies clear of all peanuts and peanut shells. The sections are down the right field line in the upper deck, but have sections on both sides. The Aug. 5th game is sold out, so there must people willing to see how it works. The Sept. 9th game still has seat available. Thoughts?

Some Days are Tougher than Others
August 2, 2008, 9:15am

Some days I can read a ridiculous number of newspapers and blogs and find little that inspires me to write about, or at least something where I could say something new. Today is one of those days, so I sent out a bunch of emails to various front office folks to see if I could find someone who had an interesting take on the past week of trades. In the meantime, I want to ask how we all feel about the trivia questions. My plan was only to do it for July, and I don't always get responses. That could mean the question is a little too tough, or it could mean no one cares. This week's fan poll is about whether everyone would like them to continue. I can keep going, just don't want to waste effort if only one or two of you enjoy it. The answer to the question of who was traded to the Reds so the Yankees could acquire Paul O'Neil is Roberto Kelly. How is that for a lop-sided trade? Today's Trivia: Who did the Astros get from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for Larry Anderson? send the correct answer in and win a $10 MLB gift certificate.

Ponson
August 1, 2008, 9:25pm

Nothing like pitching for a job. Sidney sure knows when to bring his A game, that is for sure.

Placing Blame- Griffey and Seaver legacy
August 1, 2008, 9:25am

When I was 10 years old, my team, the Big Red Machine stopped winning. They stopped steam rolling everything. They traded for the best pitcher in the National League at the time, and then all of the things Reds fans had come to expect ended. To my 10 year old mind, Tom Seaver came and we never saw the play-offs again. Sure, he was still a fantastic pitcher, but 10-year-olds don't understand the nuance of pitching. In my young mind, Tom Seaver was disappointing. I know thats blasphemy now. I wish I could transport myself back to watch him in 1977 with the eyes I have now. The Reds didn't have losing seasons in Seaver's time here, they just didn't beat out the Dodgers to go to the playoffs, but I didn't understand. As Yankee fans will undoubtedly understand, either you are playing in October or you aren't. So, what does that have to do with Ken Griffey Jr.? Well, today's Hal McCoy column reminds me of placing blame on a guy that didn't deserve it. McCoy speaks so highly of Griffey that we are reminded what a favor he did by coming to Cincy 9 years ago. There were no endorsement deals going to follow him in Cincy, and he certainly took a pay cut. It was the following year, remember, when his former teammate Alex Rodriguez got $252 million to go to Texas. Fans pined Griffey with the disappointment that they felt over the unfulfilled promise that the Reds would return to the playoffs. Griffey didn't make that promise, anymore than Tom Seaver did. And honestly, if either of them could have fulfilled that promise they would have, it just wasn't in their hands. I am personally sad to see him go, though without doubt it is the right move for the club. And no matter what anyone is saying about the defense in Chicago taking a dive with this move, they are wrong. We are going to see the heart of Griffey in the next few months, as he tracks down balls on bad knees. He wants that ring, and he will do everything in his aged power to help the Sox get it. Its funny, the White Sox are the team that Seaver went to following his days with the Reds as well. Maybe, as I root for the boys on the South Side, I will be able to forgive Mr. Seaver.

What does Manny being Manny really mean?
August 1, 2008, 9:00am

So Manny must be an awful guy to get the Red Sox, a team actually fighting for a playoff spot to pay someone, in both dollars and prospects, to take him, right? Well, perhaps after the earlier altercation with Kevin Youkilis this season, and then the later altercation with their traveling secretary, it was just time for Manny to leave. Perhaps his ability to jibe in the clubhouse had been lost. Today, Bill Shalkin of the Los Angeles Times does a nice job of finding folks who have some good things to say. He finds the reasons why a team might let Manny be Manny. He's clearly not the thinker, but he still hones his craft. He isn't going to sit a younger player down and tell him what to expect from a certain pitcher in a 3-2 count, but he can show that kid. Manny wasn't a great fit for Boston fans, and would have been gone long ago if the Sox hadn't won two World Series with him. He clearly tips the balance of power for the Dodgers, and though pitching and defense win playoff games, the NL West will be the great test of whether that combo works in the regular season. The Dodgers clearly have the bats, while the Diamondbacks have the pitching. And with moments like his Wednesday move of carrying a sign onto the field that said he was going to Green Bay in a straight up deal for Brett Favre, well, Hollywood could embrace him.
The big question left for the Dodgers is how they will deal with 5 outfielders, but I bet during the next month they find a way to trade one of those young guys for a short-stop to replace the injured Furcal. A team can still trade a player during August if he has been put up on waivers. Tom Phillips wrote a great explanation of the waiver period for us last year, so for more details check it out. The other outfielders though could also be kept for next year, as it is doubtful that the very cash-poor Dodgers could afford to keep him without unloading Andruw Jones somewhere first -- and that seems impossible.

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