7th inning stretch

ATTENTION BASEBALL FANS

2010-04-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

Excuse me while I go on a bit of a rant after an experience I had earlier this week while attending a baseball game for my high school's team. Before you go to a sporting event, please ask yourself: "Why am I going to this game?" Is it because you want to socialize, get some fresh air, or by any slight chance actually care about the sport/the players/teams/ANYTHING having to do with what you're watching? Not by any means am I saying that you should be completely attending these events solely for the love of the sport and that your presence at the game is absolutely dependent upon the success of the team, but please just show the slightest amount of interest if you are subjecting yourself to sitting in the stands for however many innings. The things I heard while sitting on the bleachers this past week amongst not only other high school students around my age, but also baseball scouts with clipboards writing out each play by hand was quite appalling. I can only imagine that a scout who is taking time out of their schedule to go look for college prospects is hoping to quietly sit and observe the game but I don't see how it would have been possible to do so with the constant chatter from many female and male spectators. Talking about prom, work, new cars, grades, etc. can all be saved for some other time. Please consider other people who are trying to pay attention during the game and keep your silly questions to yourself, thank you.

Rays are shining

2010-04-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

In Tampa Bay, that is. Not even in 2008 (the year that they went to the World Series) did the Tampa Bay Rays come into the season looking so good. Personally in the past few years I've considered them to be a pretty strong team but just recently has their performance been recognized by others who pay attention to Major League Baseball. The key aspects of the team so far seem to be B.J. Upton who scored two home runs in their 9-1 victory over the Baltimore Orioles. After reading and hearing commentary on the game that took place earlier today, it was slightly unclear as to if the Rays are just that good or the Orioles are off to a bad start. Of course that is left up to opinion but in an ESPN article it is more formally adressed and explained. The Ray's success should be acknowledged by the other teams who may be skeptical of the upcoming competition they face.
Check out for the full ESPN article

Target Field home opener

2010-04-12T13:51:00.000-07:00

Around 4pm today, The Minnesota Twins took the field for their first official game of the season against the Boston Red Sox. Target Field was built brand new this year to be used beginning in 2010 and it's quite obvious what the field is named after as the popularly known Target dog is sitting right behind home plate! The stands are crowded on this Monday afternoon while the fans enjoy sunny 65 degree weather for the home opener and gave a standing ovation to MVP Joe Mauer. The 26 year old catcher recently signed a deal that will keep him in Minnesota until 2018. As I type, the first two runs were just scored by the Twins outfielder Michael Cuddyer and DH Jason Kubel. Earlier in the game, Boston's first baseman Kevin Youkilis took a rather dramatic hit to the head while he was at bat but no runs were scored by the Red Sox as a result. Unfortunately no sick minded Twin's fan has uploaded a video clip of the hit yet because even as a whole hearted Red Sox lover I still found it to be quite hilarious. It was the acting that did Youk in though, it didn't even seem like the ball made contact with his head...

Test your baseball knowledge

2010-04-11T16:21:00.000-07:00

As I searched the papers and the web for baseball news, I came up a bit short just as the Twins did today in their loss against the White Sox (Final score: 5-4). Instead of enlightening you with the newest scores or injuries I figured it'd be interesting to mix it up a little with a five question quiz about some baseball facts that will really refresh your mind or help impress your friends in the next sports conversation you have.

#1: How many times did Barry Bonds win the Nation League MVP award?

A) Five

B) Nine

C) Seven

#2: Which mlb team has the greatest number of World Series titles?

A) The Detriot Tigers

B) The New York Yankees

C) The Tampa Bay Rays

#3: What is the name of the manager who has the most career victories?

A) Connie Mack

B) Terry Francona

C) Bruce Bochy

#4: Who won the World Series in 1994?

A) Thew New York Yankees

B) The Arizona Diamondbacks

C) There was no World Series in 1994

#5) David Wells pitched a perfect game in 1998 against what team?

A) The Minnesota Twins

B) The Cleveland Indians

C) The Baltimore Orioles

Answers: 1-C, 2-B, 3-A, 4-C, 5-A

Roberts resting on the DL

2010-04-10T18:13:00.000-07:00

Two-time All-Star Brian Roberts of the Baltimore Orioles is already assuming a new position in Major League Baseball quite early in the season. He's not giving up second base to pitch or catch pop-up hits in centerfield, he's actually taken up a spot on the Disabled List for presumably the next 15 days or so according to ESPN. The injury that got him there was an abdominal strain that occurred in Saturday's game against Toronto. For the time being, Roberts is being replaced by former Red Sox player Julio Lugo. However, he's not too upset about the injury considering the mlb season will continue for another 158 games or so, but who's counting?

Easter Sunday season opener

2010-04-04T14:48:00.000-07:00

I've been counting down the days until April 4th for a very, very long time now. I saved the date not because I was looking forward to easter egg hunting or a family dinner, but because April 4th marks the beginning of the 2010 Major League Baseball season. I can only consider myself the luckiest baseball fan in the world considering the Red Sox will have the opportunity to start off the season against their biggest rival, who unfortunately are doomed solely upon the fact that they stepped foot into Fenway at some time this afternoon. The Yankees are "stacked" according to who though? ESPN commentators or those snooty New Yorkers who still continue to talk about their championship in '09. Despite their past success, I still find them to be over rated and cannot wait reiterate that this evening when the final score is reported. GO SOX!

Switch-pitcher on the loose

2010-03-31T15:43:00.000-07:00

A what? A major league pitcher who throws lefty and righty. Clearly a rare commodity since it'd seem like there wouldn't even be a possible way for this to happen. But when you're a major league pitcher by the name of Pat Venditte there are many exceptions to be made. The first one being a special glove that could be used on either hand so realistically a switch could occur at any time, but not according to the rules of the game. A pitcher must always indicate to the umpire which arm they are going to throw with which was discovered after taking a quick look at the rulebook before the Yankees played the Braves in a preseason game. The final score was 9-6 with the Yanks losing, but in the future this pitching abnormality could potentially have many benefits for the team. Should this even be allowed in major league baseball? Depending on Venditte's success on the mound it may bring a bit of controversy to the field in my opinion.

And the last bench spot goes to....

2010-03-30T17:33:00.000-07:00

Chad Tracy of the Chicago Cubs! Tuesday afternoon it was announced by general manager Jim Hendry that Tracy was to be included on the 25-man roster for 2010. And who was he competing for the spot with? Kevin Millar...ring a bell? Seeing his name again was quite the surprise since I haven't heard hardly a thing about him since what, like 2004? Well the decision was not an easy one regarding which veteran player they would keep on the Cubs this season. After comparing batting averages, RBIs, and overall character of each individual it came down to choosing Chad Tracy, who according to ESPN, has never had to compete for a spot before. Of course this leaves a soft spot in my heart for good ol' Kevin Millar who may now consider retirement after previously having such confident thoughts that he would make the team.

Pictured above is Cub's GM Jim Hendry looking particularly concentrated..

Red Sox begin to strategize

2010-03-29T06:57:00.000-07:00

April fourth is approaching folks, which in the baseball world is a day that is long awaited by many people across the nation. Managers, players, and the coaching staff of teams from both the American League and National league are about to conclude their spring training and start getting in the mindset for which they will be in when the games begin. Right now, a major topic involving the Boston Red Sox regards their pitching rotation for this upcoming year. Daisuke Matsuzaka has caused a bit of confusion due to several injuries and the fact that he might just not be ready in time to pitch this early in the season. However, the team is still considering a six-man pitching rotation which could possibly throw off some of the pitchers who are generally used to the traditional five-man rotation. Unless you're a true baseball fan who's got these equations figured out already, most of this may just be going right over your head. The full article describing the thoughts and intentions of the Red Sox managing and coaching staff is at http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/news/story?id=5036696

What to expect from Roy Halladay

2010-03-03T18:13:00.000-08:00

Well, technically that should be left to your own judgement. But after reading an interview between Todd Zolecki from ESPNand Halladay himself, it is now very apparent what his personal expectations are for himself this season. Roy Halladay technically begins tomorrow since he will be pitching against CC Sabathia of the New York Yankees in Clearwater, Florida. After the innings are over and the teams have moved on to the next big thing, the game will soon be forgotten by nearly all fans and players alike. For Roy Halladay, it will be a game to remember as it will be the first impact he will make for the Philadelphia Phillies in 2010. Although he has been a part of the team since December, Roy feels as though he is not a true member until he has made a few contributions to the team when it really matters. Halladay sought his journey to the Phillies out to be a bit more difficult than is actually has been. After spending all of his previous time in one place (Toronto) he was not quite sure what it would be like to move on. So far though he has become rather comfortable in his new place and is assimilating well to the new atmosphere. Fans will most certainly be watching to see if things will run smoothly in his first pitching debut as a Philly.

Upton accepts $51.25 milion deal

2010-03-03T17:48:00.000-08:00

Not for nothing though, of course at the expense of playing the next six seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks. With such a great quantity money at stake, Justin Upton must play to his full capabilities for he will go down as a player who is taking on the second largest deal in baseball history. Not only is the amount he will be getting paid unusual, but what also is surprising is that he is being offered such a noteworthy contract at such a young age. Any other 22 year old is likely to be struggling through college with a minimum wage job and a little help from mom and dad, but not this guy. His parents watched proudly as their son as already spent two seasons in major league baseball and now will be guaranteed six more. Clearly Justin Upton is prepared for a future of success as he will be put under a lot of pressure after already being compared with some of baseball's all time greatest players.

Need a quick blogging break?

2010-03-03T17:29:00.000-08:00

Check my twitter account for mlb updates in less than 160 characters! Particularly helpful to those who don't care to read a whole article but still prefer to be in the loop with the latest news

http://twitter.com/mlbaseball10

Matsui moves to outfield

2010-03-03T17:17:00.000-08:00

Apparently the only reason why Hideki Matsui wasn't beside Johnny Damon in the outfield of the new stadium during the games he played as his last season for the Yankees was because he was recovering from a knee injury that he had previously suffered. The 2010 season may however bring Matsui the escape he's been looking for to stray away from DH for a little bit. After celebrating a world series championship with the New York Yankees in 2009, Matsui will now be playing for the Los Angeles Angels this year. He has already begun participating in some of the less strenuous outfield drills and may even account for a spot out there next to Bobby Abreu and Juan Rivera. This may be an honor to Matsui but nothing compared to being named MVP of the world series just a season prior. But who really cares?

Eri Yoshida

2010-03-03T16:45:00.000-08:00

Forgive me for straying away from my latest topics regarding spring training in the United States, but let us baseball fans take a quick intermission during the seventh inning stretch to turn our attention over to Japan. We all know that Japan has come through with many great baseball players over the past few years and has also brought American players overseas to play for their own teams. Even Manny Ramirez is considering spending his last two years there. This piece of news however is a bit more shocking to hear, some may not even believe it. Alright time to cut to the chase, it has been announced that a girl will soon be making her appearance in the major leagues in Japan. Yes, a GIRL will be making an appearance in the major leagues. If that didn't make your jaw drop, then keep reading. She throws a knuckleball! Many may be wondering how in the world would she learn such a thing but the answer is easy when you ask Time Wakefield. He's been her inspiration since Eri Yoshida was just a little girl, and right now the 18 year old is spending time with him in Fort Myers, Florida. He will help her out with some pitching techniques before she moves on from the Arizona Winter League into some regular season games later this year.

Boston College vs. Boston Red Sox

2010-03-03T16:29:00.000-08:00

Growing up with a family entirely from Boston Massachusetts, it's difficult not to show an immense amount of Red Sox love on this blog page. Today, athletes ranging from late teens to early thirties (give or take a few) stepped out onto the field in Florida representing the same home city, but not necessarily representing the same team. College players and professional players ran around the same bases and caught baseballs from the same outfield today when Boston College faced the Boston Red Sox in a spring training game. For those who think this is a once in a lifetime chance for the two teams to have this opportunity, think again. This tradition has taken place since 1916. Today was the 20th time the two teams have met. After reading through an inning by inning recap of the game, it was interesting to see all of the new names coming into not only college baseball but also perhaps the major leagues someday. This is such a cool experience for younger players to get an idea of what it takes to do something you love professionally get advice from those who have helpful tips to offer.

Photo above: Boston College pitcher Steven Cadoret might have been able to take a little advice from Beckett or Wakefield after giving up a hit in the second inning earlier in the game.

These things still exist?

2010-03-01T16:17:00.000-08:00

To my surprise, the 21st century people of America still have some interest in collecting baseball cards! Honestly it seems as though young kids have moved on to playstation games where they can play shortstop for their favorite team instead of bringing out the ol' baseball cards and trading with your little buddies during recess. After doing a sufficient amount of lurking the web for a new post to make, I stumbled upon a Mlb.com website where you can get the info on all the latest baseball cards. Go tell Dad you know the top 5 selling baseball cards of all time tonight at the dinner table, he'd be impressed (and then he'd probably ask you if any of your friends still collect them and if you'd wanna see his old collection...)

All eyes on Casey Kelly

2010-02-28T07:13:00.000-08:00

Spring training is not only a time for Mlb's most well known players to get back on the field and show their stuff, but it also provides a great opportunity for the younger prospects to show the managers, pitching coaches, and fans what they plan on bringing to the upcoming season. A great example is 20 year old Casey Kelly, a pitcher looking forward to spending some time in the bullpen among Boston's greatest. It's no surprise that with way less years of experience, watching Josh Beckett or Tim Wakefield throw a few pitches during batting practice is enough to make Casey's head spin around. Coaches and managers alike seem to be impressed with much more than just his pitching, though. Casey Kelly has displayed a recognizable amount of maturity and an overall great attitude so far in Florida. Casey says that it will take a while before he opens up to the team and begins to ask questions or seek advice from the other players. As for right now he is content just getting down the routine of a professional athlete and observing how they handle themselves on and off the field. He made his first pitching appearance in Fort Myers, FL and Casey Kelly certainly is on the right track to having much success in Major League Baseball. ESPN's Red Sox Blog has more details on Kelly's debut in an article written by Joe McDonald.

Manny being Manny, what a surprise

2010-02-25T17:39:00.000-08:00

Make up your mind, Ramirez. After reading several sports articles that have put Manny in the news recently I've done nothing but draw a blank as to what exactly it is that he plans on doing after the 2010 season is over. Of course that's some premature thinking on his part considering the season has yet to begin. Fans will surely become fed up with his nonsense sooner or later since the one thing he is consistent on is contradicting himself each time he speaks publicly about baseball. He sometimes comes off that he is confident in the fact that this is his last season, but continues to say he sees himself playing at least five more years of major league baseball possibly even two of those in Japan. Manny claims that he hardly hits over the winter but this year has suddenly decided to. It's so difficult to draw conclusions from what he says that it might not even be worth trying to figure out. I guess that's just Manny being Manny, folks. Take a look at http://www.vegasinsider.com/mlb/story.cfm/story/969498 if you think you may feel differently on his recent statements released to the press.

Typical...

Jason Bay

2010-02-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

While the blogging continues, I'd find it very difficult not to post a piece on my personal favorite baseball star, Jason Bay. He's won the hearts of many northeasterners after the season and a half that he spent in Fenway Park where the Red Sox Nation is always thriving. This past December, Bay began to seek out other options for a new contract and a new ballpark to call home. It may have been assumed that the 31 year old would head back to the West coast but instead chose to take up an offer from the New York Mets. Being a New Yorker, I should be happy that Bay is playing for a team representing my home state, but I'd much rather him in Boston. The Boston Herald reported earlier today that he has began his training camp with the Mets this week. Bay is prepared for a season that will hopefully bring a bit more success than the last. (Not to say that his last season wasn't successful)

Heads up for hot dogs, Royals fans

2010-02-23T18:58:00.000-08:00

Captured in a photo posted by blogs.pitch.com

Sluggerrr cries with two children in his hot dog

flinging paws, possibly looking for some sympathy

from the youngin's who are just too young to

understand the consequences of his air gun catastrophe.

Most baseball fans would be thrilled to spot something in the air flying their way when sitting in the grandstands during a major league game, hoping to be the lucky one to catch a ball that had been thrown or hit by a pro player. Unfortunately this was not the case on September 8th, 2009 when spectator John Coomer claimed to be hit in the eye with not a ball, but a hot dog thrown by Kansas City Royals mascot Sluggerrr. Sluggerrr used an air gun to shoot hot dogs into the stands and managed to hit Coomer right in the eye while he was sitting six rows above the dugout that he was standing on. John Coomer is asking for $25,000 after undergoing two surgeries after the injuries following the incident. Find this to be strange at all? Read the lawsuit yourself at http://www.kmbc.com/download/2010/0223/22646317.pdf

Stephen Strasburg makes his National appearance

2010-02-22T06:39:00.000-08:00

As the Number one pick in last June's draft, Stephen Strasburg is causing much hype among baseball fans as spring training kicks off. He has finally made his well awaited appearance in Florida while he begins preparing for his major league debut. He will be playing for the Washington Nationals in 2010, but as the preseason begins it seems as though he may start off in the minors for a while. In an article written by ESPN's Tim Kurkjian, Strasburg is completely fine with a minor league start. For a 21 year old he's accomplished quite a bit in his years playing the game. Strasburg was the only college kid on the Olympic team and through his experiences he has learned a lot about becoming a well rounded man who knows how to present himself to his fans as well as on the field. His pitching coaches are impressed that he has returned to good health after a small knee injury that took place in the fall, and that Strasburg continues to take care of his arm to insure the best throwing possible to get ready for the bullpen or the first pitch of a game.

Damon in Detroit

2010-02-21T09:35:00.000-08:00

At this point in the offseason, players have finished signing contracts and negotiating deals, and are well on their way to spring training. Of course there are a few exceptions with a few free agents remaining, however Johnny Damon has very recently been crossed off that list. Infamously known as the traitor who left the Sox for the Yanks, Damon has made one more move in Major League Baseball to play for the Detroit Tigers. It's safe to say that fans across America are not as heartbroken as when he moved from team to team well aware of the biggest baseball rivalry in history. Although it still is surprising as he is 36 years old and had much success playing outfield wearing pinstripes. Keep in mind he will still be sporting pinstripes, accompanied a different logo and more money with the deal this time around. The Tigers are looking forward to his presence on the team as he will stand out among several rookies who will be playing in the outfield alongside him. Now, Tigers coaches find it a bit more settling to see that Damon will be able to occupy either the first or second spot in their batting lineup. According to mlb.com, the final contract includes a one year deal for eight million dollars.

Spring Training

2010-02-15T16:01:00.000-08:00

Equipment trucks of the Astros, Mets, and Phillies have already began to arrive slowly but surley into the Sunshine State these past few days. Next, we will anxiously await the arrival of baseball's most promising pitchers and catchers for the upcoming season. Starting February 17th, they will put the equipment to good use as they will be the first sets of players to begin spring training in Florida. Some would say their stay in Florida will involve all work and no play, but what better way is there to work than to play ball! Check out all of the reporting dates at springtrainingonline.com

High hopes for Heyward

2010-02-10T06:55:00.000-08:00

With Spring training right around the corner, Major league baseball fans are beginning to take a look at new players who might bring that extra something to their favorite team. Mlb.com has recently put out a list of baseball's fifty top prospects for the 2010 season. With accompanying videos for nearly each player, fans from all over the nation are anxious to keep an eye on who is worth watching out for. At #1, Jason Heyward couldn't improve his game much more after being drafted by the Braves as the fourteenth pick in 2007. This year will bring him much sucess as predicted by himself as well as many others who have watched him play the game for years.