MV-Papi and momentum carry Sox into Weekend

Unbelieveable. MVP candidate Big Papi, aka MVPapi, not only ties the game with a huge blast in the 8th, but wins it in the 9th. In September. If it is a day later, it would be Big Pap-tober...

(We are going to go on a shooting spree at the Baseball Writers dinner if he doesn't get the MVP.)

Manny comes up big with a 2 run blast to bring the Sox within one. The pen was solid. Rookie Papelbon continues to impress. What a presence on the mound. He's the best pitcher on the staff right now. (Getting a little giddy about him starting next year too...)

Get ready Yankee fans, you're going to be seeing more of the Manny / Papi scenes this weekend. A sweep is likely, and 2 wins are a given...


Playoffs have started. What a weekend this going to be. Getting a little tingly in the shorts just thinking about it. Here's a quick breakdown:

GAME 1:

Wang. Rookie. Bright lights, big city. No playoff experience. Done...
Wells. Loves to pitch in big games. 7-1 at home with ERA under 3.

GAME 2:

Big Eunuch. 5-6 with 5.7+ ERA on the road. He better be spectacular or forget it.
Wake. Yanks hate to face him, only batting .157, and best part, he's on a roll...

GAME 3:

Mussina. Just off DL, couldn't get out of 2nd inning last start. Put a fork in him...
Schilling. Gutting it out at this point. 6+ innings, 3-4 runs avg. Offense should carry this one easily...

Monday:

Fughgetaboutit...

Sox acquire former Yankee, AL East crown all over!

Holy Crap! Mike Stanton! Mike Stanton! The Red Sox lock in on AL East Crown!

OK. Not really. At least we're a little more excited than Yanks fans when they signed Embree. Stanton has actually pitched well since his cast-off:

30 appearances, 2-1, 27+ IP, 3.58ERA. Not bad. Better than most of the staff. This is scary, but who knows. Here's how the Pen ranks:

Tops:
1) Timlin - closer
2) Papelbon - bridge
3) Stanton - set up
4) Myers - gutsy vet, best vs lefties

Others:
Hansen - still a ?, but better than most
Anyone not named "Chad"




Lets hope the starters carry the burden. It all comes down to Sox vets vs Yankee journeymen. Only 1 starter (Big Eunuch) has any Big Game or Playoff experience. See you on Sunday...

Yanks take lead, Sox can't solve Lilly

You could feel it coming. The Ted Lilly experience. We hate this freakin guy. He has an ERA approaching 6, but always finds a way to pitch well against the Sox. Just Maddening. His last outing was against - guess who - and he didn't make it out of the first inning...

Arroyo, who had been 4-0 in Sept, decided to leave a few breaking balls over the plate. The 3 gopher balls did him in. Let's hope he can bounce back because we'll need him Sun or Mon. The lineup continued their struggles against Lilly and only went 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position. The only one hitting right now, Renteria, is the guy who hasn't hit much all year...

There were a couple of "light" moments last night. A group of four late 20-somethings were sitting near us in full Sox garb. They spoke Japanese and very little English. It was refreshing to see people so excited just to be at a ball game. When they got on the big screen between innings, they almost jumped out of their shoes. Just screaming something in Japanese. Thought they hit the lottery. Hilarious. Funniest part? When Gabe Gross came to the plate, and they broke out into Beavus & Butthead laughter about "GROSS". Almost spit out my beer...

Yanks get another good outing from Chacon. Just unbelievable. Yanks were able to throw enough money at the starting rotation and plug the holes. Give Cashman credit, but... Nice when you have an ADDITIONAL payroll equivalent to 3 Oaklands and a Tampa Bay. The MVP race will ultimately go to A-Rod. Even the Boston writers that have a vote are biased against the DH. What a joke. Some of the Yanks players say it should be Rivera (that's a slam on A-Rod by the way). But if you consider who is more VALUABLE, you need to consider Small & Chacon. They are a combined 16-3. Yanks are VERY fortunate they came along. Thats why they're in first. Small goes again tonight...

Big BIG weekend coming up. There's no way the Yanks win two at Fenway. So it really comes down to tonights game, or Monday. Small goes against the always tough Bedard (3.60 ERA). Sox will pull it out tonight, as the bats have been quiet for too long. The wildcard is still up for grabs, as Cleveland has now dropped 2 straight. Looks like Chisox will hold on...

Can you believe the Padres clinched the division with a .500 record? They also get homefield for the first series. How is this right? The good thing? Bonds goes home early. The Babe will be safe for another season...

Sox unable to double up, Yanks get Spanked

The Sox had a very winnable game but were unable to break it open. It was the perfect chance to gain ground on everyone. The bats were going early, but no one could come up with a big hit late. Looks like Schilling is a 6+ inning 3-4 run type pitcher at this point. He's not going to be able to be his old self until his injury heals completely. Even with an extra days rest, he pitched just OK. Lets hope he can pull a couple of starts out of nowhere, like Aaron Small has all year.

Sox pen is still shaky. With one of their best 2 relievers unavailable thanks to Mother Nature, options were limited in game 2. Chad "Horrible" Harville should only come in for mop ups. The other Chad (Bradford) should only be a righty specialist. Where the hell is Manny Delcarmen? He throws in the high 90's. Can he be worse than these other guys? At least Francona is giving Hansen a shot at making the postseason roster.

Yanks get lit up like a christmas tree. Mussina could only go 5 outs while giving up 5 runs. Not a good sign for those of you thinking he was back. One time wonder Leiter maintained his form. Sheffield made it interesting, but they surrendered 17 runs to a team with one foot out the door. And yes, you should be scared. Other than big Mo at the end of the pen, they're in the same boat as the Sox. With Wright & Mussina struggling, that leaves you with Johnson, Chacon, Wang, & Small.


Both the Sox & Yanks will find a way to get in. Expect Johnson vs Wakefield to be the only pitching duel. Looks like the AL Champ will be the first to slug their way into the Series...

Sox impressive in front end of Doubleheader

The Sox put an impressive W in the first of 2 today. Wakefield pitched another gem. He's on quite a roll and could be a major force (#1 starter?) in the playoffs. He worked quickly and gave up only an unearned run with 3H over 7 strong innings. Rookie Papelbon was impressive in the 8th. After getting in a jam, he showed veteran poise, settled down, and blew away the last batter. Absolutely HUGE for a rookie in such a big game. Great sign for the pen. Papelbon in the 8th and Timlin in the 9th.

Things couldn't have worked out much better. The pen wasn't used much, and the game time was only 2 1/2 hours. Let's hope Monther Nature didn't affect things tonight.

Schilling gets the ball in the biggest spot he's been in all year. That is usually a good thing for a big game specialist. He was also given an extra days rest. Another good factor is that they should have an extra zing in their step after a big win early in the day. We guarantee Toronto is not fired up to play tonight...

Movin on up baby!!!

Best part is that pressure has been put back on the Yanks and Cleveland. Chisox must be crapping themselves...

Yanks pick up half game, Mother Nature ruins Schill & Unit matchup

Yanks were able to blow out the listless O's. They get another solid outing by the Big Unit, and another homer from Giambi, aka HGH. Yanks should be able to dominate the series vs an O's team who already has their golf bags out. They put Mussina back on the mound for his second start coming off the DL. He might be the difference maker if he is able to pitch well. Based on the way the season has gone, don't count on it. The other big question is why Torre has put his best pitcher, Small, back in the pen. This could come back to haunt them...


It's not nice to fool with Mother Nature...

Although she's the one fooling with the Sox. The rains forced the Sox into a doubleheader today, which will be tough to pull off. This also throws off an epic matchup between Schilling & Johnson. That would have been another classic. Imagine if that were the game to decide the AL East. Well, now we'll never know. Let's just hope Mother Nature stays out of it...


Sox face a scrappy Blue Jays team that has given them trouble all season. Key to these games is to get up early and keep the pressure on. They only have so much resolve at this time of year. Good thing is that the Sox had a day of rest. This group is still banged up and every day counts. Sox have been in similar spots before, and the pressure won't effect them. In some cases, it will make them play better and more focused. First test is a doubleheader. Let's hope Wake rolls on and Schilling is his old self. Stay out of the pen boys...

Jeter, other athletes become racial targets

Hey, where the white women at?

Today's "PC society" would never allow a film like Blazing Saddles to be made. While we may have become overly "PC", you would hope that similar strides would have been made in terms of racism. Unfortunately there are still some groups out there that continue to believe in and try to spread hate. On the flip side, it's been great to see outpouring of support for everyone, regardless of race, during Katrina and now Rita.

While we poke fun at the Yankees (can't help it) we do it in jest. They have outstanding players both on and off the field. Jeter exemplifies what a professional should be both on and off the field. He is the last person that should be vilified. Who cares who he is dating?

What athletes do on their own time shouldn't be public knowledge. Even if it were a scumbag such as Bonds, he wouldn't deserve it either.

Over the past few years, about 60 similar letters have been sent to professional athletes and other well-known black men across the nation, including civic and business leaders. Even two Catholic High Schools in Cleveland received letters. The FBI thinks it is the same writer.

Groups such as the Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas will even protest at veterans funerals to get their point across about gays in the military. Just makes you want to puke.

How can we end it? Good question. We say education & information. So spread the word, we still have a ways to go...

Yanks can't get it Wright, Sox pull even

Poor Jaret Wright. Every time he gets on the mound, he seems to get pelted with something. This time it was a line drive & the Jays bats. Yanks unable to overcome another poor start. Only able to hold onto first for another one day stint. Fortunate to hang on yesterday with a Cano blast in the 7th. Yanks hit the road for last 7...

Sox pull off an impressive sweep and finally had some help from "Renta-ribby". He was known as being clutch in the NL and finally showed it over the weekend. Hopefully the "Renta-wreck" version has disappeared. Great to see Manny swinging the bat well again, hitting 5HR's in last 5 games. Got some good pitching performances from Arroyo, Clement, & Wells. Although Clement gutted out a tough one. Nice to have veteran starting pitching this time of year. Let's hope phenom Hansen can find his offspeed pitches before next weekend. Sox come home to increase best home record in majors. Sure felt like home games with all the Sox fans at Camden...

Cleveland helped the cause of both teams by finally losing one. That's only their 3rd loss in the last 20 games and amazingly came against KC. Chisox manage to increase their lead back to 2 1/2.

Well folks, here it is, the homestretch. This should be a fun week, culminating with another showdown at the Fens. It's all tied up! Let's hope it stays that way so the team to win 2 out of 3 wins it. Should be another classic. Stay tuned!!!

Old Fashioned Showdown coming to the Fens

Yanks continue to play well taking 10 of last 11, with 7 of them by only 1 run. Mo Rivera is clearly the MVP of this team, not A-Rod. Sturtze & Gordon are seriously overworked at this point and they still manage to hold on at the end with Mo. Mussina comes back and has a solid outing. Small is an inconceivable 9-0. Everything is going right for them at the moment, yet they are only up 1 game.

Sox finally get a day of much needed rest after 30 straight games without a day off. Hopefully rest is just what the doctor ordered. They need to play some good baseball to keep pace. Good news? They only have 3 left on the road, and look to extend the best record in majors at home.

What it really comes down to is the final weekend of baseball. Is there a more fitting end to the regular season? Each team has been sent packing after consecutive ALCS game 7's. We think they'll be tied coming in, and whoever wins 2 takes it. Another showdown in the ALCS would be amazing. You know there would be another game 7. Any way you look at it, it will be an exciting finish. You couldn't ask for much more...

Sox implosion, Yanks take over 1st with Unit

Don't get too comfy Yankee fans. They'll be tied or up a game tomorrow. The AL East still goes thru Boston. We all know it will come down to the last 3 games at the Fens. So keep your thumbs in your pockets...

Sox pen implodes and couldn't hold onto another great outing by Wake. At least he's on a roll. Game ended a stretch of 30 straight games without a day off. They'll be rejuvinated and ready to on Fri. Remember that they've made it this far with only 2 games from Schill. If he stays hot, they're good to go.

Yanks get another gem from Big Unit. Guess he owed it to them after his last panic attack. Got to give Yanks some credit, playing like they finally want it. Yanks hit the road for most of their final games. And oh yeah, the team with the best record at home in the majors (you know) has most of theirs at the confines of Fenway...

Sox bats explode, Yanks Small now 9-0

Big Papi continues to put up monster numbers and taking the lead in MVP considerations. Rest of the Sox lineup finally got the bats going, including a slumping Varitek & Nixon. Batters 3 through 6 went an amazing 15 for 16.

Sox didn't need such an explosive night with an effective Schilling on the mound. He went a strong 7IP with 7K's and 2 runs. His control improved as the night went on which is an encouraging sign. He's got a couple more starts before the postseason to see if he can get back his true form.

Yanks get another win for Small who is 9-0 due to the offense and not stellar pitching. He gave up 10 hits and 4 runs over 5IP. Yanks pitching barely held onto this one after a huge lead early on. O's had 18 hits in this one. They did manage to keep pace in AL East race and gained a game in the wildcard. They keep finding a way to win which is what you need in September. Problem is that their pitching staff is well over a half run per game WORSE than the Sox. Only 3 teams have a bigger ERA in Sept. Thats bad news in Oct...



Bonds hits home run #706. The man chasing Babe Ruth (the last "white" guy on the list) has hit his 3rd HR since returning. "Tiny" decided to make a statement regarding Congress follow up on Palmeiro. "There are more important things out there other than steroids". He thinks Congress is wasting its time and should focus on other issues. Gee, there's a shocker Barry. Go pull a hammy or something...

Terror at the Trop!

Well, not really. Scariest part was Wells lack of control. Sox unable to overcome second day of horrible starting pitching. Great to see phenom Hansen come out and blow away the side. Big Papi had another hurculean effort, but his 4 RBI's couldn't carry them last night.

Yanks pull out another squeeeeeeeeeeeeeaker. Pull to within 1/2 game in AL East.

Worst part? Here come the Yankee Bloggers!!! Just remember kids, you're still trailing. In years past this might have spelled doom. Those days are gone. So are the Sox & Yankee teams you remember. Second place is still second place. All we can say is you better have a lead coming into Fenway.

Might not matter for either team, as Chisox get beat again. They'll be looking up at the wildcard standings soon enough. Does anyone want to play Cleveland right now? Yikes...

Stalemate in AL East, Wildcard now at 1 1/2...

Neither team could gain ground on the other, but Yanks slip to 1 1/2 back in wildcard. Look out for Cleveland, winning 12 of last 13, and play Chisox head to head 6 times. Sox & Yanks might both get in, with Chisox playing golf in Fla...

Yanks couldn't capitalize on A's blowout. Jeter struck out looking with a runner on second in the 9th, which is the 8th time he's choked with the potential tying run on base this year. Eight times. Not the Jeter of old...

Wright 2.1IP, 5H, 4R, 1BB before he got hit by the broken bat. Do you think he's going to pitch well again this season? He might not make his next start. That's the second time he's been hit since his return from DL. Talk about bad luck. It's followed the pitching staff all season...




Matt Clement looked horrible on Sun. He pitched probably the worst outing a Sox starter has had all season. His last two outings have been shaky. Let's hope his late season reputation doesn't follow him here...

Big Papi had another huge homer over the weekend, followed up by Manny finally doing the same. The bats have been fairly quiet. They are reaching the end of their 30 game stretch without a day off. Damon is playing hurt. Varitek is struggling. The other regulars are exhausted. Everyone is banged up. Wouldn't be a big deal early in the season or before the all-star break, but these guys really need a day off. If they take 2 of 3 from D-Rays, they'll be in good shape. The day off on Thursday will give them the boost they need down the stretch...


Some #'s to make you feel better:

Sox scenario #1: They go 7-6 the rest of the way, Yanks must go 9-5 just to tie

Sox scenario #2: They go 8-5, Yanks need 10-6 to tie

Sox scenario #3: They go 9-4, Yanks need 11-5 to tie

etc...

Big Unit pulls a Mike Tyson

In one of the shortest outings of his career, the Big Unit argued balls and strikes in both the first & second innings. After giving up 3 runs, 2BB, and a HBP, in less than 2 IP he decided he had enough.

Why? He didn't have his stuff. He was either injured from his last outing (knee or back?) or afraid to pitch and lose. A veteran pitcher knows that swearing and arguing balls & strikes with the homeplate ump will get you tossed. He did it in back to back innings. He did it on PURPOSE!


Why did Mike Tyson bite Holyfield? He was afraid of losing. He was AFRAID... He knew he didn't have it any longer. How's he done since then?









Remember "Days of Thunder" when Tom Cruise's character blows the engine? The tachometer was redlined on purpose. When Robert Duvall's character clicks on the tach to reveal the redline, he knew. We felt the same way when we saw the Big Unit highlight.




It's bad news for Yanks fans any way you look at it. If he's hurt and can't pitch effectively, forget it. But if he's scared, or can't control his emotions during the most CRITICAL stretch of the season, you're still screwed. He is supposed to be a VETERAN, one of the guys leading his team down the stretch. The writing was on the wall when he attacked the cameraman. Or was it his refusal to pitch to Posada? Good luck, you can keep him...

Lead @ 1 1/2, Yankee fans come out of woodwork. It' just CRAP...

Finally. Finally we get to hear from Yankee fans. Why? Because the Yanks have closed the gap to 1 1/2 games. Where the hell were all of you before now? That is just crap...

But remember: You are still in SECOND!

Yanks were finally able to solve D-Rays, but talk about scrapping & scraping for wins. If it weren't for a Cano slam, you wouldn't be writing in today. They are so fortunate with Small. It wasn't really luck, because they picked up about 25 pitchers this season. Throw enough crap against the wall & some will stick...

There's a long way to go folks. Don't expect your rotation to come thru over the next 17 games. This Sox team didn't panic last year down 3-0. Do you really think they're going to blink now - especially with a lead?

Our beloved Sox used to do the same thing to us. We knew they weren't as good as some of the Yankee teams, but we lived an illusion thinking they would overcome them anyway. Sound familiar? The Sox are the better team now, and the Yanks are merely teasing you right now. Maybe the Yanks pull into a tie or even overtake the Sox for a day. It will be much sweeter when the Sox pull it out.

So take your 26 rings and all your history, and keep it where it belongs. In the past. The Sox and the Nation no longer fear you. Hold on to your hat Yankee fans, tables have turned.

WELCOME TO SECOND!!!

Sox climb on back of veteran Wells and Big Papi Magic

Can you say MVPapi? How about the Papino? Or our favorite, Big Pap-tober! He was able to throw the team on his back once again with a game winner in the 8th. Larry Legend wore #33, and now #34 is on his heels. Simply astounding...

Wells clearly didn't have his best stuff, but earned his money last night. His cureball wasn't there and hurt him early, but he battled with his other pitches to get the job done. This is exactly why Theo picked him up. A proven big game pitcher that is leading his team down the playoff stretch. He's their #1 in the post season unless Schill can repeat his last performance.

Good luck to Gabe Kapler who ruptured his Achilles last night. Ouch. At least his clubhouse presence is still there. Still better than Japan...

Yanks able to scratch one out over D-Rays. Thought they might have had trouble scoring runs after the night before. Good thing Torre used Tanyon Sturtze to come in for one pitch and hit someone. His job is on the line if they don't make the playoffs. Wang was a little shaky in his second outing since coming off the DL. Still waiting to hear if Big Unit is making his next start. If so, we bet cortisone is involved...

So if by some miracle the Yanks make in into the playoffs, what will the rotation look like?

Will they use a small johnson or a leiter wang? This could be it's own column. Hee hee...


Noteworthy:

MVP considerations are down to A-Rod and Ortiz at this point. Many "experts" out there will not consider a DH because they feel players that field contribute more. What about bad fielders? Guys like Giambi, Frank Thomas, Juan Gonzalez, & Jose Canseco have all won it in the past, and have been horrible defenders. Do you give credit to someone being a fielder if they suck? Shouldn't that work against them? The point is moot this year, because A-Rod has been solid in the field. But, the point is that voters should open their eyes and not vote with a bias.

Ortiz has clearly separated himself - especially in the month of September, where many feel the award has been won in recent years. He has carried his team through the tough stretches all year, and especially now. He leads A-Rod in most major categories, but the biggest is with runners in scoring position and in game winning situations. We don't even think it's close at this point. If A-Rod doesn't do any serious damage before Oct, it would be absolutely criminal if Ortiz was snubbed...

ALSO - Condolences to Roger Clemens and his family on the death of his Mom. Must have been a very difficult day, and he was still able to go out and not only pitch, but pitch well. His Mom must have been watching...

Why are we celebrating the return of Bonds? (This was posted in USA Today 9/20 print edition - "Your view" section))

There's an article in USA Today by Columnist Hal Bodley about the return of Bonds. It's so niave (among other descriptors) that we had to bash him for it. Here's the link:

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/columnist/bodley/2005-09-13-bodley-bonds-return_x.htm

"Now's the time to enjoy Barry Bonds as a ballplayer" is the headline.

Here's a few tidbits:

"The sun has shone through the dark cloud created by the steroids scandal most of the summer. Brightly." "Oh, there was the exception in August" (Exception? Are you kidding?)

"Yet for the most part, the season has evolved with little distraction." (Were you here in Aug?)

"Enjoy his great talent and, for now, put suspicion aside." (What if talent = steroids?)

"And that's what people should be doing: watching and letting all the allegations go for now."

"Aside from leaked testimony to the San Francisco Chronicle from the grand jury investigating BALCO" (Aside from the damning evidence you mean?)

Why should we just watch and let all the allegations go for now? How can we enjoy his “great talent”, when the “talent” itself is in question?

He admitted using steroids to a grand jury. His claim that he was unaware the cream he used was a steroid is laughable. His personal trainer who provided it is at the heart of the BALCO scandal. He was promptly thrown under the bus, by Bonds stating that he couldn’t believe his longtime friend gave him something illegal without his knowledge. Please. What about the damaging comments from his “mistress”? The IRS doesn’t think she’s lying. The most damning “proof” in my mind is the size of his HEAD. There is credible information and multiple sources/signs that he is a user. Do we really need a court or other authoritative body to tell us for sure he’s been aided by the use of illegal chemicals? A REASONABLE person doesn’t.

The comparison to Ted Williams is an abomination. He was not a nice man and had a contentious relationship with the media. Similarities end there. He sacrificed by serving his country, and his talent and statistics are beyond reproach.

The argument that Giambi has become a fan favorite in NY, and that Bonds similarly is so in the Bay Area, is a joke. Giambi is only as such because he has been producing. We remember how ugly April & May were at Yankee Stadium when he wasn’t. Home fans are not a good measuring stick, so just wait until Bonds hits the road to gauge it.

Stating the season has evolved with little distraction (via steroids) is utterly absurd. The “exception” in August with Palmeiro was a FIRESTORM. The guy resorted to wearing earplugs on the road. Were you out of the country during this? Did you watch the Congressional Hearings? This changes the way HISTORY will evaluate players and statistics going back over a decade. It puts a black mark on those who have performed without illegal help. How can you possibly downplay it as; “The sun has shone through the dark cloud created by the steroids scandal most of the summer. Brightly.” You have got to be kidding.

Until MLB institutes IOC level of testing, the steroid issue will remain in doubt, and folks like Mr. Bodley can drone on until then. No one outside the Bay Area is pulling for this guy. Do you want the biggest record in MLB to be broken by a cheater? We don’t. We shouldn’t be celebrating his return. We should be questioning it.

Papi & Papelbon to rescue...

Well at least it's a better title than the profanity laced one we drafted after the 7th inning was over. This was by far the most frustrating WIN of the year...

Oh, and that crashing plastic sound after the words "What the "bleep" is he sending Foulke in for", was your cable or satellite bill going up. About 25,000 remotes were broken simultaneously in the bottom of the 7th... No kidding. Can you suggest a brand - any made of rubber or foam?

Just AMAZING. How many times can Big Papi come up big for this team? If he isn't crowned MVP it would be criminal. The last 2 awards have been won in September. Guess who just sprinted out into first?

And Papelbon, bon, bon, bon... Gets his first major league win. What poise for a rook. He might have just answered the closer question. What a huge confidence builder. Would be unhittable if he gets more control on the splitter. Uh, Mr Schilling...

Top 10 - We couldn't have been more pissed off list:

1) Ted Lilly - 8-10 5.50+ ERA. Just off DL. Sucks against everyone but the Sox
2) Terry Francona - Foulke? With bases loaded? No outs? What the bleep was in your gum tonight? That was Gradyesque. Inexcusable in Sept. You must be KIDDING. No mulligans allowed after August...
3) Another great start blown away - Arroyo cruises into 7th
4) Keith Foulke - how's that confidence builder working out Terry?
5) Mike Timlin - no Mike, on the OUTSIDE of the plate...
6) Jerry Remy - as soon as he said Timlin has only given up 1 HR all season... DOH!
7) Cell phones behind home plate. Hey RogersCenter - get a grip like every other stadium
8) Drunk and incoherent Toronto fans - were they yelling "Daryl" "Daryl" ?
9) Not being able to title this blog "Down goes Frasor! Down goes Frasor!" in the 9th/10th
10) No Yankee collapse to report. Still waiting on Big Unit injury report...

Noteworthy: Falcons DB D'Angelo Hall shut down & shut up TO. We don't usually like trash talk, but Hall hit TO with it as he walked off the field after the last play. TO had no response. Priceless.

Hey Jeremiah Trotter - nice job getting tossed before the game with a backup from Atlanta. Without their run stopper, Falcons able to gain 200 yds on the ground. Can you say "on the road" in the playoffs?

Yanks take series on Steroid bloop, but...

Evil Empire manages to "Strike Back" and take the series, but only close gap to 3 games. They really needed a sweep but fell short. They got a great outing by the Big Unit who seemed to pitch angry early on. Bad news? Yup, he managed to injure himself (or so it appeared) in the 7th. Why else wouldn't Torre bring him out in the 8th after only throwing 100 pitches? Is it the knee, the back, or both? We'll see in his next start - if he doesn't skip one that is. Also note that the following guys were NOT in the staring lineup: Ortiz, Nixon, Varitek, and Olerud. So don't get overly excited about his outing...

The big question? Would Giambi have hit a homerun on that bloop swing 3 months ago? Not without some juice he wouldn't. Mo Rivera was his shaky self against the Sox again. Even in one of his best years, he's still struggling against them. Some of the guys mentioned above came off the bench cold and almost got it done. Get the feeling the lead isn't safe in the 9th anymore? So do we. Yanks were fortunate to hang on...

Best part of the weekend? Schilling. A one hitter thru 6, and 8 strong. While he may not be 100% yet, that was quite the performance. Sox Nation didn't think we had a good shot at another ring until then. He's baaaaaaaaack! No more "spring training" starts like the 3 previous ones. That 3 game lead just got bigger.

Have to mention the fantastic outing by Wake. One of the best games he's EVER pitched. It's criminal he got the loss in that one. Always seems to pitch well against them. Francona picked the wrong game to rest the regulars...

How's that 1 1/2 game defecit looking in the wildcard? Yanks get nemesis Tampa Bay at the Trop. Could be big trouble...



Other Noteworthy items:

In response to Kayne West "GWB hates black people", Chris Rock (during benefit concert broadcast on MTV / VH1) muttered "GWB hates midgets" before getting serious & asking folks to help. Hilarious...

Congrats to New Orleans Saints & LSU. Two big wins must have helped to raise spirits in the gulf...

Sox Yanks Rivalry: The thrill is gone?

We read an interesting article from ESPN's Jim Caple. Here is the link :

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=caple/offbase/050908

The premise of the article is that there is no longer any interest in the rivalry outside of NY & New England. Once the Sox overcame a historical defecit at the hands of their archrivals, the thrill is now gone for fans around the country.

Here's an excerpt: "For decades, this rivalry provided one of baseball's most compelling story lines, the seemingly endless saga of the rich, arrogant and wildly successful Yankees giving atomic wedgies to the beloved underdog Red Sox."

Bear in mind the author's point of view. We almost bought a website domain named "f-jimcaple.com". No kidding. Honestly, we think he's improved in the last year or so, hence no website. But you get the idea.

We GUARANTEE that a Sox - Yanks playoff series will have a higher rating than any other. If the Chisox & Indians were on at the same time, and you could only watch one, which would it be? There's electricity in the air every time they play. Every play is magnified. Every out is huge. This weekend will be no different. It's Sox vs Yanks in the Bronx, in Sept. Even the casual baseball fan will be checking box scores.

Are there other compelling things going on in baseball? Yes. The NL Wildcard for one. But thats not the point. For the last number of years the Yanks had a comfortable AL East lead late in the year. This is the closest its been in years. The Yanks are also fighting for their lives in the Wildcard. Not to mention the other biggest reason: Fans WANT to see the Yankees lose. It's even better when the Sox are the ones to do it.

Even though we would love the Yanks to miss the playoffs, it just wouldn't be as dramatic. We love our Red Sox and hope other fans route for them once their team is eliminated. Will we lose any sleep over it if not? Nope.

If the last series in Boston (Sept 30th - Oct 2nd) has any bearing on the playoffs, who won't be watching? Not to mention if they meet in the playoffs again.

So SCREW YOU JIM CAPLE, we're going home...

Sox head into Evil Empire... Yanks 2nd in wildcard

Well Yankee fans, doesn't second suck? After another series whoopin by the D-Rays (only win was a squeaker by the way) Yanks limp into second place in the wildcard. Not feeling that October vibe? Has the panic set it that you're playoff chances are slipping away? Hee hee...

Sox head into the Evil Empire this weekend. Yanks really need a sweep to make a dent in the standings. Two wins only get them back within 3 games. Not to mention they go to the Trop next and face the D-Rays again. Best part? No matter what, Sox leave the Bronx in first.


Can Small keep his streak going? He's probably the best pitcher on the staff. We think the Yanks can pull off 2 wins. Schilling still needs at least a couple more outings before he's legit. If he can hold them to 3 runs we'll be happy. Sox pitching has improved overall recently and the pen is finally well rested. If the Sox manage to take 2 of 3, pack your bags now baby. If all 3? Oh baby...

Sports tidbits...

Can you believe that the Superdome will be demolished? In an interview yesterday, a Superdome official stated it was beyond repair. The roof damage was apparent, but he didn't describe the interior. Can only imagine how bad it is after toilets backed up, trash piled up, and most of it still remains under water. The field must be trashed. Just stunned that it will actually be gone after all those memories. Deserves a graceful exit...

Saints owner Tom Benson needs a PR class (and a kick in the ass). He's already moved the team in his mind - to his old stomping grounds in San Antonio. Last time we checked, Texas already had 2 NFL teams. Even worse, he was planning on screwing the season ticket holders. As if they haven't been through enough already? "As we move forward together, the Saints look forward to serving as a leader in the rebuilding and revitalization of our great community." What a load of crap...

Barry Bonds. We hoped he would have stayed away. Do you really think he's coming back to help the Giants into the playoffs? He's in it for himself. "One Way Barry" only needs a dozen homers to pass the next and last "white" guy on the list. Hey Barry, we thought you said Boston was racist, and it turns out it was you... Stay home. Never ever rooted this hard against any record being broken before...

Lance Armstrong. We were a little perplexed when he announced his possible "un-retirement". But when we learned his motivation was to piss off the French, we applauded. Loud. Their attempt to discredit his 1999 win (and name) has backfired. He is already one of the most driven athletes on the planet. Now they've given him more motivation. Go for #8. Stick it to em...

Sox ride Wake & Papi, D-Rays solve Unit & Mo

Wakefield pitched an absolute gem. Great to see another complete game - especially over a few days. Wake able to scatter hits over 9 innings. Lets hope he can keep rolling into the playoffs. Confidence is paramount come Oct. Speaking of confidence, Papi comes through once again in a huge fashion. He wins another big game via the walk off homer.

He needs a nickname... Mr. April thru Oct? Mr. Clutch? Mr. Walk-off? It's a Papi October? We'll get back to you...

Ortiz redeemed himself and the offense, which blew a number of opportunities to score. The big hit wasn't there all night - until the end that is. They could have broken the game open. By the way, where the hell has Manny gone? He just looks uncomfortable at the plate these days. He's been stuck on 33hr's and 116RBI's for a while now. Maybe we're just spoiled, expecting the Sox to put up 7+ runs every night. But it's great to have the pitching staff win us a game, especially this time of year.

Yanks continue to struggle vs D-Rays. It's a beautiful thing. Big Unit just couldn't get it done, giving up 3 runs and getting pulled in the 7th. Yup, the gem he pitched against the Mariners was due to, you guessed it, the Mariners. Who fears this guy anymore? Definitely not the Sox.




Is this too familiar a sight in NY these days? Must be the 6th inning...






Mo Rivera wasn't able to slam the door on the D-Rays either. Even with his ERA, he still has 4 losses on the season, including last night. Oh, and by the way, did that "goalie like" attempt at the grounder up the middle look familiar? It should. Game 4 ALCS 2004, just after the Roberts theft of second. You know the rest...

Sox couldn't solve Chisox Rook, Schill still on recovery road

Sox just couldn't get anything going against Chisox rookie pitcher. He has some good stuff - plus fastball, good curve, and nasty changeup. They made it interesting in the 9th by scoring 3 but that was about it. Justice prevailed for the Chisox because they were winning the rainout game before it was cancelled. At least the Sox won the season series between the two (in case of tie for best record in AL becomes a factor).

Schill pitched probably his best outing to date. He looked good at times but also made a few mistakes, which the Chisox jumped on. Although he did give up 9 hits & 3BB, he didn't get banged around like the previous 2 starts. Chicago was able to manufacture 2 of the 4 runs scored. While he's not where he needs to be yet, he has improved each time he's been out there. He doesn't have that swagger back, but his confidence and stamina are building. He was obviously tired in the 7th by giving up 2 hits, but he had thrown 118 pitches. Not where he needs to be, but encouraging just the same. We think he'll be at 90% of last year within a couple starts. Keep the faith folks...

Another guy to keep an eye on is Foulke. He pitched 1 2/3 scoreless innings yesterday. Not overly impressive, topping out at 88. Majority of his pitches coming in at 87. Only his second outing back in the bigs, but a vast improvement over his minor league rehab stint. Let's hope he improves as he goes along. We're going to need him in Oct...

Sox take on surging Angels. Wake gets the nod vs the always tough Lackey...

Yanks get back within 3 games, and lead wildcard by 1 1/2. Maybe they'll lose a little focus. Especially now that they face a scrappy Rays team that has taken 9 of 13 from them this season. Lets hope that trend continues...

Oh baby, Leiter lit up, Yanks now game out of Wildcard

You just knew we couldn't resist. The one time wonder was back last night. He couldn't even get out of the 1st inning. Yikes. You knew it was only a matter of time before he fell apart AGAIN. We're amazed he's made it this far. Keep tossing him out there baby...

Yanks now tied with Cleveland, and a full game behind the A's & Angels. Scary because they've been playing fairly well lately. Yes, it's time to PANIC in NY. They just don't have enough pitching. Period. It's finally starting to catch up with them. It's been a long time since they haven't made the playoffs. And you remember when they actually won it last...

YEAR 2000! YEAR 2000! YEAR 2000!

Sox rolling & sweep Rays, Yanks bat-less in Seattle

Wow. They just keep finding ways to win. Arroyo ending up pitching OK, surrendering 4 runs on 2 HR's over 7. But Olerud was outstanding. He hit 2HR's and drove in 6 of the Sox 7 runs. Can you imagine if both he & Millar stay hot? Sox might win 100 games...

Papelbon was equally impressive in the 8th. For his 4th ever stint out of the pen, he looked great. He was a little shaky in the 9th, but Timlin slammed the door in 7 pitches. Nice to see him excel in the closer role. Who knows, he might be the answer especially if Foulke can't improve on his single A rehab numbers.

Yanks faulter again and manage a split in Seattle. Wright pitched well again until he took a hard liner off the shoulder blade and neck area (seems to be OK). Old friend Ramiro Mendoza helped out the Sox in this one. Lets see, thats 3 "plants" they have in the Yankee system now. Nice to
see Tanyon Sturtze back to form...


Rut row raggy, Yanks 3 1/2 back, tied for wild card...





You know things are bleak when guys like Jose Lopez (who?) & Migel Ojeda (who?) are hitting homers off your staff. Could be more slippage vs good pitching Oakland staff. They're getting hot again too. Not to mention you're throwing Leiter & someone else in the first 2 games. Better pray for a sweep at Yankee Stadium when Sox come in. Might bring them back to 1 1/2 games...

Resilient Sox keep coming back, Yanks win squeaker

You just can't keep the Sox down. They bounce back from another big hole early on. Wake gave up 3 dingers but righted himself after 3 innings. The knuckle ball was flat so he mixed in more fastballs & curves, retiring the last 16 batters he faced. Why Francona didn't put him back out for the 9th is puzzling. Shouldn't he try to keep the pen fresh - especially your new "Heart-attack" closer Timlin? Granted they will call up reinforcements from the minors today, but why not rest them every chance you can get? Next day off is 22 days away...

Good to see Millar hit 2 homers. Nice to have some of the pressure off him. He's settled into his "backup" role nicely. He doesn't have the power of last year, but he and Olerud are a good tandem. Until now you would give Olerud the nod most days (not everyday player anymore), but imagine if Millar finds himself in Sept. Wow...

Welcome back Youkie!!!

Do you really think Wells said the following: "I understand that I was wrong in my statements about these issues and for that I apologize." "Now that I have had this opportunity to sit down and discuss the issues, I better understand the procedures that go with steroid testing." MLBPA probably said: "Here David, read this or miss another start". Since when did MLBPA become soft? Lets hope its a sign that roid testing will get more indepth. Please contact the IOC. Giambi (aka HGH) is first in line...

Sox look to complete the sweep with Arroyo on the mound. He looks to bounce back from 7 run outing vs Tigers. Ouch...

Looking forward to seeing new acquisition Harvell in the pen. Had a 1.74 ERA in Aug. Still puzzled why Houston would waive this guy - especially in the middle of the NL wildcard race. Maybe we'll find out the hard way...

No major waiver deals for the Sox. Looks like the Mets regained sanity by not offering Traschel after all. Unfortunately Philly is still in playoff hunt, would have been nice to pick up Wagner. Hopefully Harvell will be a difference maker. Pen is still a scary place. Foulke has not looked good in A-ball rehab. Lets hope the "farm arms" catch fire in Sept. Closer Hansen may not make it up after all. Although the Angels K-Rod didn't make his first appearance until Sept 18th. Still an outside shot, but don't get your hopes up...


Yanks able to solve Mariner rookie Hernandez. He made 2 bad pitches and unfortunately both were homers. Big Unit's return to Seattle was successful, as he held the anemic Mariners offense to 3 hits over 7. The used up their run production the night before. Yanks keep pace and stay 2 1/2 back. Better hope Wright can continue his winning ways tonight. Tough series with Oakland coming up. Probably lose 2 of 3 - especially with Leiter & Mussina's replacement pitching...