Thursday's Frosty Mug
by Kyle Lobner on Sep 15, 2011 9:34 AM CDT
in Milwaukee Brewers News
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PrintSome things to read while following the experts' lead.
Let's start off with today's best news: Bob Uecker told Colin Fly yesterday that he's planning on returning for his 42nd season in 2012. Sadly, this is more of less today's only positive note.
Three years ago today I sat down to write one of the gloomier Mugs I've ever written. The Brewers were playing awful and their playoff chances were fading. It's fitting, then, that this morning I feel the same way. The Brewers are showing little to no signs of life down the stretch and, while their playoff chances are still pretty good, they appear to be a strong candidate for a very early exit. Even before last night's loss, 60% of BCB Tracking Poll voters admitted to being concerned by the team's recent struggles.
This day in 2008 was the turning point for the Brewer season, though, as they fired Ned Yost and mounted the charge that led them to the postseason. Maybe today can be 2011's turning point as well. The team likely won't fire Ron Roenicke today, but A Simple Kind of Fan has a look at how he could help this team going forward.
Other notes from the field:
- Michael Fiers pitched a scoreless ninth inning in his major league debut.
- Tom Haudricourt referred to the Brewers' performance as "curiously flat."
- Mark Ellis, Carlos Gonzalez and Kevin Millwood are leading FanGraphs' Star of the Game voting.
- Ryan Braun went 1-for-4 yesterday and dropped his batting average to .329. Jose Reyes has four hits in the last two days and is now hitting .331 to lead all NL batters.
- Braun rounded the bases in 23.23 seconds following his walkoff shot Tuesday, and Prince Fielder needed 20.78 seconds to score following his solo homer.
- The Italian won last night's Sausage Race, and the Hot Dog won on Tuesday.
- Tuesday's game was played under a weird haze under the roof at Miller Park as smoke from the Minnesota wildfires drifted through the area.
While the Brewers were losing on the field last night, distractions started to mount away from it. Francisco Rodriguez is apparently unhappy with his eighth inning role, and has complained to reporters each of the last two days about not getting save opportunities (FanShot). That'll happen when you're on the depth chart behind a guy who hasn't blown a save since April. Rodriguez would have been the closer last night if a save situation had come up.
Elsewhere, Prince Fielder acknowledged to Brian Anderson that this is "probably his last year" in Milwaukee. Adam McCalvy downplayed the comments. Jaymes Langrehr of The Brewers Bar says both players' comments are non-stories, but the timing remains curious.
Meanwhile, Nyjer Morgan has been uncharacteristically quiet since his incident with Chris Carpenter at the end of the Cardinals series a week ago. Last night he told Howie Magner not to worry, but both Trenni Kusnierek and @korn01us say Tony Plush needs to come back.
Maybe he's just too worried about being mean. Morgan (ninth) and Prince Fielder (13th) made Sports Illustrated's list of baseball's meanest players, as determined by player voting. Miller Park Drunk has the appropriate reaction.
Mike Bauman of MLB.com says the Brewers have nothing to worry about, and are still going to make the playoffs. I think he's missing the point. @Simplekindoffan sums up my current feelings pretty nicely:
I haven't been this pessimistic about the #brewers since December 19th. I can't see them even winning a game in playoffs with Yuni & McGehee
J-Doug of Beyond the Box Score says the Brewers would have just a 33.3% chance of beating the Phillies in the NLDS if the season ended today. Howie Magner has the opposing view: He says the Brewers are going to win the World Series. Cory Provus compares them to the 2010 Giants.
The Brewers will get their first chance to bounce back tomorrow as they open a series in Cincinnati against the Reds, who were eliminated from the NL Central race Tuesday. Nate Mink of MLB.com has the preview.
Jonathan Lucroy batted eighth and went 0-for-4 last night. Joshua Parrott of The Lafayette Daily Advertiser has another story about him, including this great quote from Bob Uecker:
"I know what it's like to be back there and get your nuts knocked up into your stomach, and that's why I can appreciate what he does."
LaTroy Hawkins is the Brewer nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, presented annually to "a player who best represents the game of baseball through sportsmanship, community involvement and positive contributions to their clubs." Hawkins idolizes Clemente, so it's a pretty big deal for him.
If this season does end early, at least one Brewer has a good fallback position: Kameron Loe made Jeff Zimmerman of NotGraphs' All Porn-Name Team.
I'm not ready to start thinking about 2012 yet but if you are, the schedule was released yesterday (FanShot). The Brewers open the season at home on April 6 against the Cardinals and face the Twins, Royals, White Sox and Blue Jays in interleague play.
And at least the fan fiction market is booming: Brewers in 11 has their fourth episode of Around the Infield.
In the minors:
- Taylor Green and Michael Fiers have been named the organization's Minor League Players of the Year.
- Helena Brewer Alex Jones answered a lot of reader questions in an interview on Reddit. (FanShot).
Around baseball:
Cardinals: Designated pitcher Francisco Samuel for assignment.
Giants: CEO Bill Neukom is expected to resign following the season.
Indians: Designated pitcher Jason Rice for assignment.
Pirates: Claimed catcher Matt Pagnozzi off waivers from the Rockies.
Rays: Released pitcher Jay Buente.
Red Sox: Designated infielder/outfielder Nate Spears for assignment.
Rockies: Catcher Eliezer Alfonzo has been suspended 100 games after testing positive for performance enhancing drugs.
The Cardinals are already facing long odds to make the postseason, but their chances took another hit yesterday: Matt Holliday will miss this weekend's series in Philadelphia with a strained tendon in his hand. You know that and much more if you've read this morning's edition of Around the NL Central.
Here's today's "it could always be worse:" The Pirates clinched their 19th straight losing season and the Astros lost their 98th game yesterday.
In former Brewers:
- Curtis Leskanic was arrested for DUI this week. His blood-alcohol level was .331, and his daughter was in the car.
- Yesterday I mentioned that the Marlins had released Mike Cameron. The move apparently came after he had a verbal altercation with a flight attendant on a team charter Sunday. Dave Cameron of FanGraphs has a look back at Cameron's career.
- Both Adam McCalvy and Tom Haudricourt expressed surprise that Cameron would find himself in trouble.
- Trevor Hoffman is one of four pitchers all time to record a save in more than 55% of his appearances.
- Aaron Gleeman rated Corey Koskie as the 16th best Twin of all time.
- Graham Womack of Baseball: Past and Present featured Jim Abbott in the latest installment of his "Any Player, Any Era" series.
- Also at Baseball: Past and Present, Bob Uecker and Seattle Pilot Jim Bouton are on Graham Womack's list of ten people he'd like to interview.
The Arizona Fall League opens play on October 4 and is the subject of today's coolest graphic: Flip Flop Fly Ball has a look at the history of the AFL and other American winter leagues. Elsewhere in winter leagues, the Puerto Rican league has dropped to four teams.
Elsewhere in unusual visuals: Follow this link for video of sparks shooting off Tigers catcher Alex Avila's mask following a foul tip. (h/t BBTF)
Joe Mauer has had a pretty poor and injury-riddled season for the Twins, and now he's starting to draw some backlash for his near-constant stream of TV commercials. Mauer has appeared in just 82 games this season and is hitting .287/.360/.368. He's due to earn $161 million over the next seven seasons. (h/t Baseball Musings)
File this under things we're going to have to get used to: The Florida Marlins will become the "Miami Marlins" when they move into their new ballpark next season.
I've already mentioned the anniversary of the Yost firing a couple of times today, but Chris Jaffe of The Hardball Times notes that it's also the 40th anniversary of the one game major league career of Robin Yount's brother Larry, who was injured throwing warmup pitches and left without facing a batter. It's also the eighth anniversary of Rickie Weeks' major league debut, and the fourth anniversary of Prince Fielder's franchise record-setting 46th home run.
Now, if you'll excuse me, it's time for breakfast.
Drink up.
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Alright
someone needs to make an offering to jobu already.
by Mr. McGehee on Sep 15, 2011 10:03 AM CDT via mobile reply actions
You can say that again.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
by sjlee on Sep 15, 2011 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
Alright
someone needs to make an offering to jobu already.
by Mr. McGehee on Sep 15, 2011 10:05 AM CDT via mobile reply actions 4 recs
And you did.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
by sjlee on Sep 15, 2011 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Thanks
for turning my crappy double post into something that made me laugh.
by Mr. McGehee on Sep 15, 2011 10:31 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
MPD link
“You Run Gay” made me lose it this morning.
I stopped using the word in that manner years ago, but hearing it in an ironic sense is one of the funniest things to me. Not totally sure why.
http://www.mlbsoup.com
still feeling much better than in 2008
does anyone remember that awful weekday afternoon loss to the Cubs that they blew in the 9th? this sucks, but it’s nothing compared to how terrible that felt.
"We have to beat these guys. All they do is (complain) and moan about everything, all of them. I really hate the Cardinals. Compared to the Cardinals, I love the Chicago Cubs. Let me make this clear: I hate the Cardinals" - Brandon Phillips
Ditto.
That was the most excruciating stretch I can remember as a Brewers fan. We’re nowhere near that level of frustration right now. (Yet.)
by Cheeseandcorn on Sep 15, 2011 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Now > 2008
Not to mention we’ve still got a much better pitching staff than in 08 and outside of McGehee and Yuni I like our offense much better (current black hole of offense excluded).
by zsxander567 on Sep 15, 2011 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions
If you're going to compare the offenses between 2008 and 2011
you have to take the good with the bad.
2008
OPS = .757
2011
OPS = .739
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
I'm not bothered by Prince's comments
He’s just saying what basically everyone on this site has been saying all year long, that the Brewers probably can’t afford to keep him – if not literally, then practically. And he sounds a little regretful and matter-of-fact, and if I were in his shoes I’m sure I’d feel the same way. Yes, there’s loyalty, but there’s also the possibility of leaving $20-$50MM on the table to play hometown favorite.
Tell you what does bother me – a Kameron Loe porn movie. Pass the brain bleach, please.
If anyone had told me at the All-Star break
that the Brewers would have a 5.5 game lead on September 16, I probably would’ve wet myself. That being said, I’m still (justifiably, IMO) concerned.
Between KRod, Prince, and James Jones,
Wisconsin athletes are really saying a lot of things that fans don’t want to hear.
http://www.mlbsoup.com
what's james jones been saying?
"We have to beat these guys. All they do is (complain) and moan about everything, all of them. I really hate the Cardinals. Compared to the Cardinals, I love the Chicago Cubs. Let me make this clear: I hate the Cardinals" - Brandon Phillips
Kyle, get off the ledge
The Brewers were playing awful and their playoff chances were fading. It’s fitting, then, that this morning I feel the same way
We were tied for the Wild Card exactly 3 years ago. There was no magic number, and a distinct possibility we would not make it.
Today, we have a 5.5 game lead, and a single digit magic number with 12 games left.
Yes, they are playing crappily right now, but Rickie is back, the guys who need days off will get them, and we have temporary solutions to two of our 3 lineup holes if our manager would get his head out of his ass.
So take a breath, relax, and realize that after 150 games played, we are 5 games better than our competitors.
"That's not a weird stat. Rickie is a run-scorer," Yost said. "It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter," Yost told reporters. "See, you guys have no concept. He's a run-scorer. So there's nothing weird about it. That's what he does."
BCB Fantasy Football League 1 Champ
by Hyatt on Sep 15, 2011 10:42 AM CDT reply actions 6 recs
also, let's say we go 4-8 in those remaining 12
the Cards would have to go 10-3 to catch us. That’s hard.
"That's not a weird stat. Rickie is a run-scorer," Yost said. "It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter," Yost told reporters. "See, you guys have no concept. He's a run-scorer. So there's nothing weird about it. That's what he does."
BCB Fantasy Football League 1 Champ
boom.
"That's not a weird stat. Rickie is a run-scorer," Yost said. "It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter," Yost told reporters. "See, you guys have no concept. He's a run-scorer. So there's nothing weird about it. That's what he does."
BCB Fantasy Football League 1 Champ
The key being...
and we have temporary solutions to two of our 3 lineup holes if our manager would get his head out of his ass.
by jcollins205 on Sep 15, 2011 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well
“lineup holes” are not easily fillable. If they were, they would’ve been. We’ve talked at length about this every single day on this site.
the other key point is that the Brewers are getting to the point were 4-8 is more likely than not and the Cardinals going 10-3 is looking doable depending on how they go in Philly this weekend.
Green and Kottaras
Boom, filled 2.
"That's not a weird stat. Rickie is a run-scorer," Yost said. "It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter," Yost told reporters. "See, you guys have no concept. He's a run-scorer. So there's nothing weird about it. That's what he does."
BCB Fantasy Football League 1 Champ
Can Kottaras play SS?
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
Better than Yuni, at least.
REWIND YOURSELF!
by drezdn on Sep 15, 2011 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Pan of lasagna
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
by sjlee on Sep 15, 2011 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Screwed again by the large market teams
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
by sjlee on Sep 15, 2011 2:51 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Don't worry
the pan of lasagna is on the DL after Ortiz got to it.
Brewers:
5.5 games ahead of the Uptight Citizens Brigade
1 game ahead of the Braves for the Wild Card Safety Net
Tied with Arizona to avoid the Phils in the 1st round
by molitorfan on Sep 16, 2011 6:59 AM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
No, that's exactly the point
those holes aren’t easily filled (TWSS), but there exist better options, and the manager refused to use them.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions
No, that's not the key
The key is the other $50MM in the lineup producing. If you are relying on your #7 and #8 guys to make a difference, you will lose.
by nullacct on Sep 15, 2011 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Its a microcosm
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions
Lucroy at the moment
"That's not a weird stat. Rickie is a run-scorer," Yost said. "It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter," Yost told reporters. "See, you guys have no concept. He's a run-scorer. So there's nothing weird about it. That's what he does."
BCB Fantasy Football League 1 Champ
he's hitting .143 in his last 12
guy needs a couple days off and let Georgie do some damage.
"That's not a weird stat. Rickie is a run-scorer," Yost said. "It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter," Yost told reporters. "See, you guys have no concept. He's a run-scorer. So there's nothing weird about it. That's what he does."
BCB Fantasy Football League 1 Champ
won't he have 2 days off anyway?
Wolf’s up next right?
"We have to beat these guys. All they do is (complain) and moan about everything, all of them. I really hate the Cardinals. Compared to the Cardinals, I love the Chicago Cubs. Let me make this clear: I hate the Cardinals" - Brandon Phillips
make it 3.
"That's not a weird stat. Rickie is a run-scorer," Yost said. "It doesn't matter. It doesn't matter," Yost told reporters. "See, you guys have no concept. He's a run-scorer. So there's nothing weird about it. That's what he does."
BCB Fantasy Football League 1 Champ
Kottaras
turns every walk or single into a double.
Caught stealing %
Kottaras has thrown out only 11% of would-be basestealers. Lucroy is at 25%.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Right
Lucroy throws more out, but guys run on him more.
I don’t get the argument that guys are running at will on Kottaras – they’re stealing close to as many bases on him as they are Lucroy.
Get a ife broseph
So if they're both allowing the same rate of SBs (1 per 13 innings)
But Lucroy is throwing more guys out, then Lucroy is doing better.
Same amount of bases taken + more outs = Better.
See? Math.
by Cheeseandcorn on Sep 15, 2011 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions
Of course
Sorry did a lazy job of explaining my point.
Replied to a post that said “Kottaras turns every walk into a single or a double”
Lucroy is a better defensive catcher, but its not like (comparatively) guys have been running wild whenever George catches.
Get a ife broseph
I agree
I actually think Kottaras and Lucroy are close to a wash at this point, though Lucroy is better. Given their career splits, I think a platoon might actually be the best way to go with these guys.
by Cheeseandcorn on Sep 15, 2011 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions
Stats
can truly be manipulated however we want. By the same count as the stolen bases/innings caught ratio, I thought I’d offer these:
Kottaras throws out a runner every 111 innings.
Lucroy throws out a runner every 38 innings.
Runner kills – any type of out including: CS, PO and other outs attempting to advance where he has to throw the ball:
Kottaras gets a kill every 55 innings
Lucroy gets a kill every 35 innings.
Sorry supertramp, those are too big of differences to ignore.
Aren't kills dependent on how often guys run?
Guys run on Lucroy more than they do Kottaras.
Get a ife broseph
There are 746 innings difference in playing time.
So of course more guys run on Lucroy. We can juggle the number all we want for the sakes of our arguments. The other factor that no one has mentioned is that the Brewers lead the league with 65 wild pitches. That affects catchers stats as well.
I think he's saying
that the number of guys that attempt a steal per inning is higher for Lucroy than Kottaras (attempted steal rate).
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
I'm not even sure what you're arguing
Lucroy – 99 SB attempts in 969 innings = 1 attempt per 9.7 innings
Kottaras – 19 SB attempts in 223 innings = 1 attempt per 11.7 innings.
Guys are running more on Lucroy than Kottaras.
Lucroy leads the in WP allowed, with a WP every 17 inning.
Kottaras allows a WP every 56 innings
I’m not saying Kottaras is better on defense, just that they are in the same ballpark defensively.
Get a ife broseph
Same ballpark?
You bet… Miller Park.
Sorry, I felt I had to do that. :)
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
I think a big part of the WP difference...
Has to do with the fact that most of Kottaras’ innings have been catching for Wolf. Less nasty stuff thrown in the dirt = fewer WP.
Definitely part of it
Blocking pitches is something I’d like Lucroy to improve upon, and think he can.
Get a ife broseph
I guess
I’m just I’m watching a different game than everyone else. I think Lucroy does a sufficient job of blocking balls, but the 65 wild pitches thing (which I was unaware of before today) lends itself to your argument. My original argument was just a rebuttal to the argument that stolen base percentage is irrelevant and SB/inning caught should be used. It is clear – using running bases allowed – that Lucroy allows a runner an extra base every 5.8 innings while Kottaras is at 8.5 innings.
Next up I’m going to look into which pitchers allow the largest stolen base % and the possible correlation to their wild pitch totals.
Its hard to get to exact
I’d suspect the scouting report on Lucroy is that he struggles to block pitches.
Greinke had 4 WP in 220 IP last year. He has 9 in 153 IP this year.
Marcum had 3 in 195 IP last year, 5 in 188 IP this year.
Small sample and all, but its been a 2 year trend that Brewer pitchers are tops in WP.
Get a ife broseph
Catching is unfair to rate sometimes.
When the first base coach is using his stop watch he is not timing how long it takes the catcher to throw the ball back to the pitcher. He is timing the pitcher to homeplate. There is probably not that much difference between the 2 catchers on the throw down to 2nd. If Axford is throwing a fastball and Marcum is throwing a change up which one would you be more likely to steal on? I Also I get the WP thing but is that stat only with runners on or 3rd strike? That is the only time that it matters. Just asking.
Found my answer to the WP
A wild pitch may only be scored if one or more runners advance. If the bases are empty, or the catcher retrieves the ball quickly and the runner(s) are unable to advance, a wild pitch is not charged. A runner who advances on a wild pitch is not credited with a stolen base unless he breaks before the pitcher begins his delivery.
I'm glad you're happy with simply making the playoffs.
I’d like more than that.
Now that's great tasting chicken!
Well, we aren't losing any playoff series right now.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Or maybe they'll score 3 runs a game and still win.
Like at a number of points in our ridiculous run. It’s baseball, 1-0 games happen. Point is, our “chances of making the playoffs” are hardly fading, Accuscore has us at a 99.8% chance of winning the division.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Until RRR makes some bonehead move
that costs the game.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions
That's the problem
They’re not scoring 3 runs a game right now. They’re averaging 2.25 runs over the last 8 games… four of which were against a team we will likely have to face on the road to the WS.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
It'll probably continue that way for the rest of the season and into the playoffs.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions
Even though you're being facetious
the fact that the team is prone to extended slumps at the plate is worrying. Couple that with the manager’s penchant for making questionable decisions, and you’ve got reason to be worried about what will happen in the post season.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Looking back at the last 10 WS winners
Only 2 had a sub-.500 September
2001 Diamondbacks (14-13) includes 6 games in Oct
2002 Angels (18-9)
2003 Marlins (18-8)
2004 Red Sox (21-11) includes 4 games in Oct
2005 White Sox (19-12) includes 2 games in Oct
2006 Cardinals (12-17) includes 1 game in Oct
2007 Red Sox (16-11)
2008 Phillies (17-8)
2009 Yankees (20-11) includes 3 games in Oct
2010 Giants (19-10) includes 3 games in Oct
Brewers are currently (6-7) this month.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Make that one sub-.500
I originally counted the Diamondbacks.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Considering we don't play anymore good teams
I’m fully confident we’ll be above .500 for the month.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 3:40 PM CDT up reply actions
I hope so
We haven’t done so well in Cincinnati this season, and the Marlins took 2 of 3 from the Phillies earlier this month.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
We just split with the Rockies.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:30 PM CDT up reply actions
Right... I share your concern
I was just looking at upcoming opponents.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Oh I know
I was just tossing it out there, and it seemed most appropriate to put it in response to your comment. I know sometimes I come across as I’m looking for a fight with everyone (sometimes I probably am), but it wasn’t then, and it hasn’t been today. Sorry about that at any rate.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:44 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't think anyone doubts that the team will make the playoffs.
the most concerning/frustrating thing is the way they’ve been playing doesn’t inspire much confidence that they’ll do anything in the postseason. Granted, they could get hot and do well in the postseason, but right now they are playing uninspired baseball. In an all-in year and in Prince Fielder’s last year, going 3 and out in the postseason (or one and done, whichever) isn’t really what fans want, because who knows when this team will be in position again with this type of talent.
I am too drunk to taste this chicken.
by ThroughBeingCool on Sep 15, 2011 10:51 AM CDT reply actions
I wouldn't quite say that no one doubts they'll make the playoffs. Half their lead has evaporated in the last week.
I have no concept.
Are you saying you doubt they'll make the playoffs?
Because I’d be all too happy to take your money.
i just view it as hot/ cold
this feels like a streaky team that wants home runs to score. in august, when they were peaking, everyone was very excited about building up the 10 game lead. now they aren’t hitting as many home runs and they don’t know how to get on base. it’s a streak and it’ll end.
it’s just a matter of whether they can endure this (and potentially other) cold streaks.
and in a weird way, you kinda want the cardinals to do well… but not too well. if the braves falter and the cards get the wildcard, then milwaukee wouldn’t play philadelphia in the first round (which is how it stands now, i think).
by Capt Science on Sep 15, 2011 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions
The Cardinals are as far out of the wildcard as they are for the division lead.
The Braves, Brewers and Cardinals play a few common opponents to finish up the season…
Braves: Mets (3), Marlins (3), Nationals (3), Phillies (3)
Brewers: Reds (3), Cubs (3), Marlins (3), Pirates (3)
Cardinals: Phillies (4), Mets (3), Cubs (3), Astros (3)
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
"Meanest" players -- Most are/were in the NL Central
Think back to 2009, when we had Kendall, Nyjer was with the Pirates, and Bradley was with the Cubs. Maybe TLR brings out the worst in everyone?
Dave Kerwin brings out the worst in everyone.
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
by Yar Nivek on Sep 15, 2011 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
I am glad Kyle said it, this is starting to feel like 08 all over again
If we get to the point where those Pirate games are something more than a victory lap they are in trouble.
My personal view is they will back into the division most likely locking it down during the Pirate series and will have lose in the first round. BUT there is always a but.
I am also the person who wrote the Packers season was over after the loss to the Lions in Detroit and we all know how that worked out.
You get in and get hot who knows what happens. right?
"It's a joke. It's all a joke.
2 picks for K-Rod?
revisiting something I posted when the deal with the Mets was finally consummated…… now that we know K-Rod is unhappy in Milwaukee, perhaps we should offer him Arb anyway so that he would decline it, thereby giving us 2 picks (probably). and as somebody mentioned in response to my initial posting that day, should he actually accept Arb, we could just cut him in Spring Training and only be on the hook for 30 days termination pay.
your thoughts?
Right
But there is some speculation that there was an under-the-table agreement that if the Brewers wouldn’t offer arbitration, K-Rod would void the vesting option on his contract.
The Brewers offering arbitration would hurt K-Rod in the FA market.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Also
If he did do it with a handshake deal, I think that deal is now voided since he’s come out and complained to the media.
Good point
I wonder who brought up the topic first… DM or K-Rod/Boras.
I could see K-Rod wanting to get rid of it so that he could close games, but I could also see DM bringing it up so that he could have K-Rod as an option to close.
I wonder if K-Rod’s frustration is fueled by the comments RR made when the trade was made (where he said that both K-Rod and Ax would share closing duties).
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
In my mind
they are sharing closing duties. K-Rod is the guy who closes when Axford is unavailable. We just haven’t seen that situation yet.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Not a bad idea to offer the picks
The problem is that if he accepts, he gets a nice raise, and the team cant afford that. I mean if he were to accept, he would be a suitable replacement as the closer after Axford’s arm falls off sometime in October.
But the cost is the main thing. I doubt he would accept. Unless he wanted to really screw the organization and hamstring them with whatever arb award he receives.
still boils down to cost
Thats a lot of money to be wasting on something like that. The picks have an approximate value of $5mm, the throw away maybe $1.5 mm. But if you do something like that, it makes the organization look really bush league (and this coming on the anniversary of Ned Yost being fired). Not only that, but it would make all of DM’s comments bout how unfair the economic system of MLB is to teams like the Brewers, seem pretty nonsensical if he went and completely manipulated the system in that way.
It’s a decent little arbitrage type move, but if he accepts and you have to cut him, youre still out $1.5 million, which for next year might really come in handy if they are close in the standings.
???
If the picks are worth 5 mil and they give up 1.5, why wouldn’t they do it?
And I don’t understand how that would be “bush league” in anyway. Rodriguez is the one complaining about making millions of dollars, why not take advantage of his tantrum?
Also, if Melvin did this it would point out exactly how stupid the draft and arbitration actually are and hopefully lead to some changes.
"If the world were perfect, it wouldn't be." - Yogi Berra
by mnbrewer on Sep 15, 2011 1:16 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Its not an either or with the $5mm and 1.5mm
Its a (if arb offered and denied) you get picks worth $5mm, but if he accepts, and wins say a $13mm contract, you owe him $1.5 and you dont get the picks, and its $1.5 out the window for the 2012 payroll. Add in the bad taste it leaves for the organization and bad pr with the union.
The risk is great if he does not accept arb, but if he does the cost is $1.5 million probably in cash and a bit more in bad press.
It costs $0 to not offer arbitration and end the headache he perhaps could cause.
Hold on now...
But if you do something like that, it makes the organization look really bush league (and this coming on the anniversary of Ned Yost being fired).
I am the arbiter of all things Bush League. Don’t tarnish my good name by bringing the Brewers down to my level!
That dog just won't hunt.
by Bush League All Star on Sep 15, 2011 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Wow, does that not make sense.
"fortunate, but also lucky"
by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Sep 15, 2011 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions
There was never any doubt we should offer him Arbitration. If he took it we could release him or trade him.
The only question I have about it is whether they had a handshake deal with Boras to not offer him Arbitration so as to increase his value.
I have no concept.
For K-Rod?
Someone would be interested. Who cares what we got in return? The point was to try to get the draft picks, not to keep K-Rod.
I have no concept.
duh
"fortunate, but also lucky"
by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Sep 16, 2011 5:29 PM CDT up reply actions
Listenin' to some Eric Clapton...Layla to be precise.
Here’s to hoping this catchy song convinces RRR to let Taylor Green start more.
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
Which version?
Because if its the girly version, maybe it lulls him into a sense of soothing security with himself.
Derek and the Dominoes version
It’s Green’s At-Bat music.
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
Drinking a soda...Mug Root Beer to be precise
Here’s to hoping this tasty beverage convinces RRR to let Taylor Green start more.
I was seriously trying to figure out the connection before reading your post below about it being his at-bat music.
http://www.mlbsoup.com
Haha
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions
Maybe if you would have listened to "Cocaine" last year
Macha would have been more lively.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions
I see what you did there.
That dog just won't hunt.
by Bush League All Star on Sep 15, 2011 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions
Every day I greatly enjoy reading this blog and I appreciate the work that all the writers and posters do
But I feel like I’m reading the bad BCB. Reading the mug every day has just made me sad. Not cause of the brewers but because of the way people are acting. This team has sucked this past week or so. We all know that. But they’re playing just like they did when they got swept by the braves which was terrible. But does anyone remember what happened after that slump? And the one that came during interleague? Clearly not otherwise some people would have some hope and remember that slumps end. Have some faith people.
by Taterwithbacon on Sep 15, 2011 11:40 AM CDT via mobile reply actions 1 recs
The presence of hope does not mean the absence of dismay.
Some people put their heart and soul into supporting this team…and most still have faith. But this stretch has been pretty gut-wrenching, heart-breaking miserable.
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
I hear
what you are saying Tater. When they were 18-2 and then 21-5 there were still a lot of negative things about the team on here (and by team, I mean left side of the infield). I think there is always universal hate for the manager and I get it. You have to hate someone and it’s easier to blame a game on RR mismanaging than on Fielder striking out with guys on for the umpteenth time. Even if the latter is more important the the former.
I think that people are afraid this is the team that will make the postseason, not the one that was playing lights out baseball and getting every break in the book.
So, to be clear
as fans, we have to be positive, only? No negative? No getting down? No feeling disappointed? Just keep the faith, and all is well?
I’ll amend my “Guide to Being a Brewers Fan” with those notes.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm positive that I'm not happy with the way they're playing now.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
by sjlee on Sep 15, 2011 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Ha agreed
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions
Yup.
That exactly…. My wife says “I didn’t realize that the Brewers ability to win or lose so closely affects your attitude and demeanor.” It’s not been too happy in my house as of late.
If I didn’t like this site I wouldn’t read it daily and I certainly wouldn’t post when I can.
This is what I mean about the negativity on here though Charlie, just pointing out that sometimes this site can go overboard with negativeness, causes the typical sarcastic/negative response I associate with BCB.
I think I play devil’s advocate a lot on here, so I probably come across as too optimistic.
The negativity just doesn’t offer me anything so personally I’d rather it not be there at all. Please don’t take that to mean you’re not allowed to gripe – no one’s telling you to stop griping – it’s just that it I feel the same way and it’s not exactly positive sentiment, so why bother? I’d rather read 50 “silver lining” comments than 50 “doom and gloom” comments.
The melodramatic way your responded to what was essentially a “keep your heads up!” comment exemplifies the type of sentiment that offers no benefit to read besides reaffirming negativity. Is it cathartic? Maybe we should start a “Doom and Gloom Quarantine Zone” FanPost as a way to stop the spread before people start jerking their knees too hard.
by MillerParkSouth on Sep 15, 2011 2:38 PM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
If there was such a FanPost
That’s probably where most of the posts would be right now.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Cool
I’m glad you’d rather not read it. Its so very meta for you to complain about the complainers.
Guess what? That’s what fans do. I’m actually not sorry if it bothers you. There will always be cheerleaders and there will always be realists. Your level of vitriol for your foil is up to you. I don’t mind cheerleaders, I just mind when they tell me I can’t say things they perceive as negative because they’d rather turn their heads and pretend when they walk past the panhandlers in the nice areas.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:34 PM CDT up reply actions
Yuni and McGehee are the panhandlers of the Brewers lineup
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
by sjlee on Sep 15, 2011 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Right
and RRR is the new city councilman who finally got the high-speed rail system approved, but keeps introducing measures to have an apple orchard installed in the middle of the city to help increase the amount of butterflies and thus beautify the city and attract more tourists.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:45 PM CDT up reply actions
MONORAIL!!! MONORAIL!!! *MONORAIL*!!!!!!!!!!!!
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
by Yar Nivek on Sep 15, 2011 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Haha yeah the “Brewers = marginalized dregs of society, shunned by those who may be their only hope” metaphor is pretty priceless.
by MillerParkSouth on Sep 15, 2011 4:46 PM CDT up reply actions
You realize he's actually agreeing with my analogy?
But I do find it interesting that you’d rather attack my analogy than the content and the point.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions
Probably an error in my thought process today then
4 hours of sleep three days running now.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:51 PM CDT up reply actions
Cool.
I’ll amend my "Guide to Being a Brewers Fan" with those notes.
But you can probably erase the part that says “rage against people who you perceive as asking you to stop complaining when they’re really just trying to be optimistic.” Because, again, no one’s asking you to stop – it’s just dull reading.
by MillerParkSouth on Sep 15, 2011 4:45 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
So move past it?
Sorry, you aren’t tugging at my heart strings.
I read both because there is usually interesting conversation surrounding both. If you choose not to, that’s your thing. But its annoying to tell people they should stop writing something because you don’t like to read it on a fansite.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:50 PM CDT up reply actions
This is the last comment I'll make on this
I didn’t mean for “fact-based ill portents” to get lumped into what I perceived the original commenter to be addressing, which I interpreted to be “knee-jerk, small-sample size/anecdotal doom and gloom.” Content vs. discontent, etc.
by MillerParkSouth on Sep 15, 2011 4:57 PM CDT up reply actions
Fair enough
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 5:10 PM CDT up reply actions
And it's annoying
to read “Oh great, probably another 1-hit shutout” when you’re down 1-0 in the 2nd. So…yeah we’re back where we started :)
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 4:57 PM CDT up reply actions
Right
but people lump in people who are fire and brimstone with people who, for example, are concerned about specific and documented things that the team does.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 5:10 PM CDT up reply actions
I agree.
the johnny-come-lately debbie-downers (yeah I’m mixing metaphors or something but whatever) are the ones that have really been chapping my ass around here – of course they aren’t participating in a Mug on a non-gameday.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah they irritate me too
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 6:19 PM CDT up reply actions
What about reading
Oh great, probably another 1-hit shutout
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
What was the point you were trying to make then?
I’ve re-read your post multiple times now and still can’t figure out what you’re getting at.
You say that you aren’t telling him to stop complaining, but go on to say that what he’s posting makes for “dull reading”, and you’d “rather it not be there at all”.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
He wants us to complain, but be more entertaining about it!
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
Breaking the slumps
Atlanta sweep
In early May, the Brewers lost two games to the Astros, got swept by the Braves (4 games), then lost the first game of the Cardinals series. It was a 7-game losing streak… their worst for the season.
Interleague
Despite sweeping the Twins at Miller Park, the Brewers ended up going 6-10 in interleague play. They followed that up with losing the first two games of the Diamondbacks series.
The Brewers’ next win in both of those cases had a few things in common…
1. Betancourt didn’t start (Counsell in both games)
2. Gallardo started
3. Kotsay started (RF, then LF)
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Curtis Leskanic
Is there anything worse than
“a blood-alcohol level of .331, more than four times the legal limit of .08”
and
“with his 5-year-old daughter.. unrestrained,”
in the same article?
If the Brewers have you down, be thankful that a five year old kid is still living today.
by grant76 on Sep 15, 2011 11:43 AM CDT reply actions 6 recs
Even the former Brewer news today is depressing
I always liked Curtis Leskanic—I was actually a young radio reporter when he played for the team, and he might be the only player in the three or four years I covered the team who engaged me in conversation. And say it ain’t so Cam.
what's more impressive...a .331 lifetime BA or a .331 lifetime BAC?
"We have to beat these guys. All they do is (complain) and moan about everything, all of them. I really hate the Cardinals. Compared to the Cardinals, I love the Chicago Cubs. Let me make this clear: I hate the Cardinals" - Brandon Phillips
Reminds me of my younger days...
playing the TI-83 game where you beat people up for money to buy booze…and you won when your BAC reached 1.00
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
1.00?
that’s over twice the limit of “death”!
soudns like a good time though…
"We have to beat these guys. All they do is (complain) and moan about everything, all of them. I really hate the Cardinals. Compared to the Cardinals, I love the Chicago Cubs. Let me make this clear: I hate the Cardinals" - Brandon Phillips
I think it was called 'Hick Quest'
And yeah, it was rather unrealistic.
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
No comment.
Hyatt is the ONLY commenter on Brew Crew Ball that gets to use the Prince Fielder doughnut bat avatar. I will fight you over this.
by Dikembe Meiztombo on Sep 15, 2011 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions
If someone had a .331 BAC for their lifetime
They would only survive for probably a few days.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
How is that guy even still alive?
I mean, .331, there’s no way he’s not dead. I think. Unless he’s an alcoholic. In any case, if I remember rightly, doesn’t .331 mean that 33.1% of the liquid in your blood is alcohol?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm pretty sure it's 0.331% of the liquid is alcohol
BAC is already measured in percent
Greinke: "It’s not about the guacamole itself. I just don’t want to let them win."
33.1% would be kind of impossible, BAC is already a percentage so 0.331 = 0.331%
That’s still ridiculously high though. Apparently the highest ever recorded was 1.48% (though the guy later died), via Wikipedia.
"We’re here to win, man. All that fighting stuff, that’s for the birds." - Prince Fielder
In general
.350 is approaching coma stages for most people. For a drunk, it’ll be a fall-down drunk stage.
Most super heavy alcoholics can withstand about .500 before slipping into a coma or passing out. A normal person with no special tolerance will die around .450.
For those that did not read the article, a driver called him in for erratic driving, but he was stopped and passed out when the cops found him. Also they apparently give two tests and presumably use the lower score, but he refused a second test.
I don’t know if there is usually much discrepancy, though. Would it really be much better if he blew a 0.317 his second time around?
He was pulling a TLR when the cops found him
The article stated that he was pretty livid when they arrested him. For the second test, I’m guessing he was being combative versus simply telling them that he didn’t want to do it.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
That's amazing... that means if you drank enough of his blood you could get drunk.
I have no concept.
So the Brewers have through a bit of a rough stretch: 10-10 with a 3.10 ERA and outscored opponents 73-67.
By comparison from April 15th to May 6th they went 6-14 with a 4.65 ERA and were outscored 96-76 in a stretch that featured losses by Braddock, Loe, Kintzler, Green, and Mitre.
If the pitching staff is still pitching well, I’m not too worried about it. Most of the hitters will come around.
by grant76 on Sep 15, 2011 12:07 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Not a fantastic comparison, but yeah, they'll break out of it sometime
Defense is part of the problem so ERA isn’t a great state. 20 games history paints a different picture than 10 which is where the anemic offense really started.
The team in April was missing Lucroy, Greinke and Hart and what felt like 3/4 of the bullpen. If Braun and Fielder hadn’t been white hot, it woukd’ve been even worse.
We’ll see what happens with the offense when Rickie is back to game shape – a little while yet. I think his impact on the offense is far larger than just his production at the plate as I’ve stated repeatedly. Otherwise, this team is the healthiest it’s been all year, as far as we know.
The two stretched are comparable in terms of Hart vs. Weeks being out – both vital to the offense distinct they’re otherwise pretty distinct.
by ecocd on Sep 15, 2011 12:44 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Defense
is definitely part of the problem but it hasn’t really translated to unearned runs being scored. The Brewers have 54 unearned runs scored on the year and the NL average is 53.5. The Phillies have 27…seriously?!
Its not an un-earned run if there isn't an error
And you can’t make an error if you can’t get to a ball.
by BrewCrewBrian on Sep 15, 2011 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Right.
There is no way to measure the extra hits he doesn’t get to…oh wait, isn’t that was UZR is? He’s -6.8 on the year. Brutal.
When do we start thinking in terms of
a 5 game series? And whether we care about home field advantage for that?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions
That seems incredibly short-sighted
Particularly for the second item.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions
The opposite
Who do you think the Brewers should start vs. Detroit in Game 1 of the WS?
You're missing the point
He’s talking about the NLDS, which the Brewers will likely make.
In order to get to the WS, the Brewers have to win the NLDS and NLCS.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
OH
so it’s okay to blow past the next 12 actual games on the schedule to plan for 3-5, at this point, fictional games to be played. Gotcha.
You're still missing the point
The next 12 games will determine who has home field advantage in the first round of the playoffs (NLDS).
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Yes
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:35 PM CDT up reply actions
I figured as much
but I was a little worried that I misinterpreted your post and was putting words into your mouth.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
In that case
I didn’t think he was restating the obvious. If he’s worried about how the starters line up for a 5-game NLDS, then we really need to be concerned about winning regular season games now. At this point the Brewers do not control their own destiny in terms of the 2nd seed as the D-Backs have the tiebreaker. Let’s assume they play Philly. They won’t get homefield obviously – no need to worry there. Let’s assume they make the playoffs but don’t clinch until a day or two before the season. Milwaukee won’t be able to juggle their rotation unless they win at least 4 days in advance, correct?
No
I’m worried about home field advantage, which the Brewers had looked like a lock in round 1 as the 2 seed, but have since completely frittered away.
I am still not convinced this team can beat the Phillies, and I would rather not see them exit again in the first round.
I’m not too worried about the rotation—if you are, I can tell you that it will be Greinke, Marcum and Gallardo, and worry about everything later. If its not that, then whoever is filling out the lineup card should be looking for work next year.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions
What I'm saying is
we can’t worry about that for the exact reason you mentioned. There is no reason to think this team can’t piss away this large of a lead to end the season. Their magic number is 8 with 12 to play. They are getting to the point where they are starting to need the Cardinals to lose instead of them controlling their destiny and just winning. I don’t the think the Brewers can worry about what you’re talking about until their magic number is in the 2-3 range. So, yes, it’s too early to worry about homefield and rotations.
No, its not
you’re missing the point. The team has to win games now.
Or are you of the opinion that its likely they won’t make the playoffs? If you’re operating under that assumption, I can see how you would just want them to get into the playoffs. Barring that, unease about the current poor play and potential loss of that home field advantage is the most important thing the Brewers need to address.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:47 PM CDT up reply actions
If the team
takes care of your first point “win games now,” they will soon enough be able to address your second point. They are cause and effect however. I think you view them as mutually exclusive, which, I feel they are not.
But they aren't winning games now
and, worse, the Diamondbacks are. They also can’t win against the Phillies. Unless people feel that something major will change
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions
I agree. This team needs Tony Plush to do something crazy (in a good way).
I need him to do something crazy. This season has been exhausting. I think high expectations do that (as opposed to being an underdog). It’s been said a number of times already, but the team looks like it has the weight of the world on its shoulders. Tony Hush needs to be put on the shelf. I would have never predicted that I would feel this way about Morgan, but I do. They need him to do something to break the tension.
by Hangwith'em Rach on Sep 15, 2011 12:37 PM CDT reply actions
Tony Hush could be a team created persona though
That would make Tony Plush (and Nyger Morgan) a guy who is very unhappy and have less money in his pockets.
Half the league already wants to bean Morgan, and the other half thinks he is one of the meanest players in the game. Best thing for him to do would be to play the game and keep his personae for the off field. He might be looking for a new employer again next year if he were to “do something” that really upsets, or rubs the wrong way.
Wait
So there’s a group of people that want to bean Morgan, but those aren’t the people who think he’s mean? Why the heck do they want to bean him, then?
I believe the statement you were looking for is, “Half the league already wants to bean Morgan, and the other half doesn’t give a flying crap what he does.”
by Cheeseandcorn on Sep 15, 2011 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions
This
I think Morgan has evolved his league-wide trolling to the point where he can smile and say “U MAD BRO?” if he gets beaned intentionally.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
IIRC
Morgan doesn’t do his “Plush thing” unless the Brewers win. I don’t recall him ever doing a post-game interview after a loss.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
I guess the point I was trying to get at is that
every team needs someone who keeps the team loose. Morgan doesn’t have to do anything on the field or anything that the fans can see. I just hope he is still making his teammates laugh. That’s what I meant by crazy in a good way. I was attempting to distinguish between that and getting into a fight with the opposing team—which, I think we all agree, is not what we want Morgan to do.
by Hangwith'em Rach on Sep 15, 2011 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions
That sort of thing used to work wonders for the Yankees in the 50s though
Nothing better to rile up a team like a bench clearing brawl, and I mean real brawl, not like what they have now where Seligs office comes down like the Gestapo on all parties involved with fines and suspensions.
GO FLY A KITE!
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
by Yar Nivek on Sep 15, 2011 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
This depression we're having now is going to make the mania that much better when we win the WS.
http://www.mlbsoup.com
by tcyoung on Sep 15, 2011 12:43 PM CDT reply actions 3 recs
RRR hasn't tried to shake things up much, has he?
I don’t even know how he could do it at this point. Pop-ups notwithstanding, even Yuni has been making great contact this month. Green for McGehee hardly constitutes “shaking things up.” The lineup construction seems pretty logical, too. Any ideas for shaking things up without shaking them to pieces?
by ecocd on Sep 15, 2011 12:48 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
A Green-McGehee quasi-platoon and Hairston for Yuni is as far as I'd go
This team isn’t in a desperate enough situation to shake up anything more than that. No reason to try to fix what’s not broken.
by Cheeseandcorn on Sep 15, 2011 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions
That and maybe give Kottaras more starts than just when Wolf pitches
Braun could probably use a day off too. He looked horrible at the plate both games against the Rockies. Could be that he’s thinking about the batting title than just doing what he’s been doing most of the season.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
If it's not broke, you're not trying.
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
by Yar Nivek on Sep 15, 2011 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 4 recs
Recced for Red Green
EVERYONE, KEEP YOUR STICK ON THE ICE. thanks.
by morineko on Sep 15, 2011 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I'm pulling for ya. We're all in this together.
Applying pop culture to Brewers discussions since 2009, earning the nickname of "Our Little Abed".
Why?
I don’t think Morgan has been getting on base any more often than Hart.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
He likely would if he were batting leadoff. He rearely walks now (way below his career avg) because he rarely gets the chance to.
Batting in front of Braun means he sees a lot more pitches in the strike zone.
Also, I would prefer that Hart had the opportunity to drive Morgan in rather than hitting solo home runs.
I have no concept.
Protect Prince!
Has anybody seen numbers on Prince with/without Cory or Rickie protecting him? Just curious.
I don't know where to find it
but Weeks missed all of August, and Fielder hit .284/.387/.490.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
The Yuni problem
We all want JHJ starting over Yuni. RRR has said he wants to try it too.
However, Rickie isn’t 100%. Hell he’s probably not 80%. RRR is easing him back in by letting him play 5-ish innings and then having JHJ go the rest of the way. Now, he could start JHJ and Rickie, slide JHJ to 2nd when he pulls Rickie and pinch-field Yuni or whatever, but I think not doing so is part of the reason why the players like him. Hopefully when he’s confident Rickie is good to go for full games, he’ll let JHJ start at least sometimes at short.
The Green/McGehee thing is a little harder to decipher.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 12:49 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
The problem with a Green/McGehee platoon
Is that McGehee has been absolutely craptastic against lefties. Like .176/.237/.193 bad. There is no way that you can do that platoon. You really need to just play Green exclusively and use McGehee as (shudder) a defensive replacement and pinch hitter.
Then plug JHJ in at SS. Voila. Best its going to get at this point of the year.
Eh
you can platoon guys not based on handedness. Just flip a coin or whatever.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions
If you want to take your mind off the Crew...
…here’s an upbeat LA Times article from Matt Dominguez’ dad (who works as a copy editor) on Matt’s call up to the bigs
“Matt Dominguez”: http://articles.latimes.com/2011/sep/13/sports/la-sp-0914-matt-dominguez-20110914#.TnI9RAm0ogM.email
Listen, Brewers fandom
The entire reason why a 10.5 game lead was so amazing was because the Brewers could afford to have a bad couple weeks and still come out 5.5 games ahead with not many left to play.
I feel like people expected them to go undefeated or something.
"We’re here to win, man. All that fighting stuff, that’s for the birds." - Prince Fielder
by SRB on Sep 15, 2011 1:15 PM CDT reply actions 7 recs
rec'd
Honestly, I think having the Cards get a little closer will make this team play harder and eventually finish with 10 more wins than the birds.
"Obi Braun Kenobi you're our only hope!"
by ObiBraunKenobi on Sep 15, 2011 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't think the results are as much of a concern
than the lack of offense.
I know I’d be less concerned if the Brewers were hitting, but still losing.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Within the 2-6 stretch, they faced (in a row) Chris Carpenter, Cole Hamels, Roy Halladay, and Cliff Lee. Obviously their offensive line in those game is going to be below the season average. In the other four games they averaged 11 H/BB per game.
"We’re here to win, man. All that fighting stuff, that’s for the birds." - Prince Fielder
by SRB on Sep 15, 2011 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Is that really that bad?
"We’re here to win, man. All that fighting stuff, that’s for the birds." - Prince Fielder
FWIW
There are only 3 teams in the MLB with a 1.22 WHIP or better (which is 11 H+BBs in 9 innings).
SF, TB, and Philly.
I think that is not very good.
There’s a difference between “not good” and “omg the Brewers suck they are going to get swept in the playoffs if they even make it I hate them.” which is more what I was responding too.
Very good offenses will have an eight game stretch where they are below par.
"We’re here to win, man. All that fighting stuff, that’s for the birds." - Prince Fielder
by SRB on Sep 15, 2011 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
They also averaged only 2.25 runs in the other four games
Hits and BBs don’t win games… runs do.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
The comment used to be
“The Brewers dominate great pitchers, but they suck against the no name guys”, and thus, people justified hating Dale Sveum.
Is that not the way it is anymore?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions
Hitting but still losing
meaning the starters or bullpen was failing instead?
I have more confidence in the hitting of Corey Hart, Rickie Weeks, Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun coming back. If the pitching was sucking, I’d be more concerned.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions
Pitching sucked last night.
And now we have an extra day to dwell on it…
When I said "hitting"
I really meant offense… particularly runs.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Argh, Rodriguez
I think the entire reason that he was even told that he would get save chances was that the Brewers traded for him when Axford was having a streak of awful. The Ax hadn’t blown a save, but he was the losing pitcher on July 4 when he gave up 2 runs on 4 hits and he also had a dodgy save on July 7 when he gave up a run on 3 hits and a walk. Axford hasn’t done anything of the sort since Rodriguez joined the team on the 13th of July. He’s given up runs in saves, sure, but he hasn’t allowed more than 3 baserunners since 7/7.
thanks
The more I think about it, the more I can’t blame the team for even saying that; they didn’t really have an alternate for closer. The closest thing Nashville had to “closer” was Mike McClendon and McClendon’s use profile usually involved multiple innings. IIRC DiFelice was already DLed by the time K-Rod was traded for, so he wasn’t going to do it (and was starting for the Sounds at that time, anyway.) Saito’s here now but he’s been dubious all year in terms of usage due to the injury so couldn’t really be counted upon as the closer. So, they traded for a backup closer in case the 2011 Brewers repeated history and had to junk their closer like they did in every year but 2009 when Hoffman was pitching out of his mind. What was their other choice? Use Loe?
Loe
was unavailable. At that point he was still the 8th inning guy. :-)
The Brewers are dreadful to watch right now
Knowing they’re unlikely to score more than 1 or 2 runs has lessened my desire to commit 3+ hours of my night to watch them.
I understand people who are complaining and are pissed, and understand people who hate the complaining because the team is going to the playoffs for the 2nd time in 29 years or however long its been.
It’d be nice if they were playing awesome right now, but they aren’t and we have to hope they turn it around, what else are you going to do as a fan at this point?
The stuff (mostly on twitter, a little here too) with people freaking out and other people freaking out about the other people freaking out is getting old.
Get a ife broseph
by Supertramp on Sep 15, 2011 3:21 PM CDT reply actions 2 recs
just do what I do
The minor league playoffs aren’t over yet. Keep calm and watch the Sacramento River Cats and Omaha Storm Chasers, mate. Also, watching bad teams in other divisions does wonders for low expectations. Watch Strasburg throw his 50 pitches and the Nats bullpen blow up, watch to see if Bob Melvin makes Jerry Blevins face righties again, see Don Mattingly go off on an umpire. It’s great fun.
I just don't understand how people can lose desire to watch games
of a team they’ve rooted for for decades who are in a dead heat for home field in the first round of the playoffs. There’s so much at stake, and hell, 2 runs won the game for us Tuesday.
If you honestly think it’s “unlikely” we’re going to score more than 2 runs off “insert random sub .500 team’s starter here” – I guess I just wonder what you’re seeing that I’m not.
I guess I don’t buy into the idea of “slumps” as a particularly real (or especially team-wide) thing as most do.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
The last week hasn't been entertaining to watch
I think we all can agree on that, right?
I still am constantly following on my phone and ready to tune in if its close, but I don’t commit 3+ hours to sitting in front of the TV every night if the team is playing bad. Its just not fun.
Get a ife broseph
Computer and Uecker is all I cling to
since the games are rarely on in California and even if they are I’m at work til the 7th inning or later.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, should clarify
For me “watching” is ignoring my wife and sitting in front of the TV, or meeting friends out at the bar for a game. “Not watching” is following along on my phone while doing other things a normal person would do.
Get a ife broseph
I don't think he's saying he's not going to watch anymore games
It’s more like doing something else halfway through.
I was at the game on Tuesday night and stayed for the entire game. I agree that it was a painful game to sit through despite the great ending.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Yeah, I don't get why people devote so much time to telling others that they should calm down
or that they shouldn’t ‘freak out’. Its just what some fans do. I mean, who really cares that much?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
by Charlie Marlow on Sep 15, 2011 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions
On another note
Today in stat-head history:
Only one player in history has had a season where he had an equal or better batting average, equal or more RBIs, HRs, doubles, triples, and stolen bases than Ryan Braun has right now. By the end of the season Braun will probably be the sole leader by this metric.
And I never would’ve guessed who it was.
If you just look at AVG, 2B, HR, SB
The list is 5 people long (including Braun). Bonds only had a AVG over .325 once until he started using steroids (and stopped stealing bases) and in that season (1993) he only had 29 SB.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions
Braun's 5 triples knock out two of those 5
and his 97 RBIs knock out a 3rd, leaving only 1 man – who should be knocked out by Braun’s steals by the end of the year.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 5:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Ellis Burks in 1996
is the man left – he had 32 steals that year, so Braun needs 2 more this season to bump him off. I’m also hopeful he can join the 30HR/35SB/40double group – only 4 men have done that in history (Vlad, SorianoX2, AbreuX2, Howard Johnson).
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 6:42 PM CDT up reply actions
Howard Johnson?
Wow, never pegged him as a speedster.
by Cheeseandcorn on Sep 15, 2011 7:11 PM CDT up reply actions
4 30+ SB seasons
including a high of 41. Only stole at a 66% clip though.
by Archibaldcrane on Sep 15, 2011 7:37 PM CDT up reply actions
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NL Central Standings
| W | L | PCT | GB | STRK | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cincinnati
|
26 | 20 | .565 | 0 | Won 1 |
|
St. Louis
|
25 | 22 | .531 | 1.5 | Lost 3 |
|
Houston
|
22 | 24 | .478 | 4 | Lost 1 |
|
Pittsburgh
|
22 | 24 | .478 | 4 | Won 2 |
|
Milwaukee
|
19 | 27 | .413 | 7 | Lost 1 |
|
Chicago
|
15 | 31 | .326 | 11 | Lost 11 |
(updated 5.27.2012 at 12:11 PM CDT)
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