Baseball Toaster Bronx Banter
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Big Time
2005-09-29 13:51
by Alex Belth

As dramatic as this weekend's showdown in Boston will invariably be, I have the feeling that tonight could be the most pivotal game of the year for the Yankees. To be honest, part of me feels that it'd make perfect sense for the Red Sox to win--could they possibly drop three straight to the Jays?--and the Yanks to lose, and have 'em both duke it out in the best-of-three. Speaking of the Yanks and Sox, Cliff is just one of a handful of Boston and New York-based bloggers who will be interviewed tonight at Open Source radio between 7-8 pm est. Click here and here if you are interested in streaming it live.

Aaron Small gets the nod over Jaret Wright in Baltimore this evening. Small is 9-0 and I've been waiting for his arm to turn back into a pumpkin for over a month now. But even when he's been roughed-up, the Yanks have managed to get him off the hook. Does he have another good outing in him? Can the Bombers put up enough runs to pull him through? Erik Bedard, the talented young lefty goes for the O's and he could be as tough as Cabrera was last night. Baltimore also has a strong enough offense to mush bad pitching. I dunno, folks. I can't call it. I just hope Small keeps 'em in it and that the bats don't get completely shut down. Me, I'm just gunna sit back, say my prayers, and watch it all unfold. Oh yeah, and try to remember to breath while I'm at it.

Comments (438)
Show/Hide Comments 1-50
2005-09-29 14:20:56
1.   Murray
Has everybody heard about Boston's new acquisition? The Sox acquired Mike Stanton from the Nationals this afternoon for two minor leaguers.

Quick, who owns the Nationals? Major League Baseball, of course. How is it within the spirit of fair play for MLB's vassal team to trade a pitcher to one of the teams fighting for a division title during the season's last weekend--the team whose ownership was so carefully selected by the Commissioner himself? I know that Stanton doesn't have much left to offer, but the intention here is to provide the Red Sox with a player who will help them this win this weekend. Stanton would be ineligible for Boston's playoff roster if the Sox make the playoffs.

This move stinks to high heaven, and I'm disgusted by it.

2005-09-29 14:24:38
2.   Shaun P
Thanks for the heads-up, Alex. Lydon's Open Source show is supposed to be pretty good (on WGBH-FM 89.7 in the Boston area). I'm looking forward to hearing what both Cliff and Jay Jaffe sound like.

BTW, the rain has stopped in downtown Boston. Lots of clouds still in the sky, but for now its looks like they'll be playing.

Let's go Yanks; Small will come up big once more, I feel it!

2005-09-29 14:25:31
3.   Schteeve
The fact that the Red Sox picked up a sketchy lefty doesn't bug me too much.
2005-09-29 14:27:35
4.   Rob S
I'm about 90 miles east of Boston and the storm blew through about 2 hours ago. Nothing but blue skies; they'll play tonight. Good luck all!
2005-09-29 14:27:56
5.   Shaun P
Murray, that's a great point - I completely forgot that MLB still owns the Nats!

Not that Stanton is a great player, but if he makes a big difference this weekend . . . didn't they used to call such moves syndicate baseball? What a crock.

I expect to see one of Jayson Stark's classic conflict-of-interest columns, that he did so well when the Nats were still the Expos.

2005-09-29 14:35:55
6.   KYK
I can't wait - the season is going to be on the line and the pitchers will be Stanton and Embree. The team with the pitcher who sucks least will go to the post-season.
2005-09-29 14:44:12
7.   watziznehm2
I really don't care about the MVP award and if it goes to A-Rod or not as long as we win the division.. but did anyone read Simmons, wonder if I can get some of the stuff that he's smoking....
2005-09-29 14:49:08
8.   tocho
I read the Simmons article and I was laughing the whole time, so it was good, right? Isn't he supposed to be a comedian... he has his cartoons, his cowbell, discusses prime-time TV... He's a clown, and sometimes he's really funny.
2005-09-29 14:51:14
9.   watziznehm2
Tocho,

I guess you are right. But I hate it when people distort facts and all those morons on espn do that all the friggin time....espn becoming more like MTV every day.

2005-09-29 15:07:39
10.   Schteeve
I used to REALLY like Simmons, but lately when he writes about baseball, I kinda want to punch him in the face.
2005-09-29 15:09:32
11.   Murray
Don't focus on the player. It's obvious that Mike Stanton isn't Billy Wagner, but that's not the point. The point is that Boston acquired Stanton because Boston thinks Stanton could help them win this weekend, and they acquired him from the team that is effectively operated by the Commissioner's office. Situations like this are why authority figures are supposed to police situations like this and say "hey, wait a minute, this deal makes it look like we might be playing favorites in a pennant race, so we shouldn't do it."

It is possible for parties with potential conflicts of interest to deal at arm's length with each other, but there are reasons and even incentives for them to deal unfairly, too. That's why we strive to avoid conflicts of interest: the mere possibility of the conflict compromises the integrity of the situation. Who's that umpire whose brother is a pitcher? Randy Wolf, right? Could Randy Wolf's brother officiate fairly in one of Randy's games behind the plate? Yes, in theory, but in theory, he has a compelling reason to play favorites for Randy, too. The league has responded to this by barring the umpire brother from calling balls and strikes when Randy Wolf pitches.

And it is no kind of answer to say, "What's the difference, Randy Wolf sucks?" or "What's the difference, Randy Wolf's team has been mathematically eliminated?"
Sorry, folks, but it was bad to let owners own multiple teams in the NL in the 1890s, and it's bad for MLB's vassal team to trade a player into the heart of a pennant race in the last weekend of the season.

2005-09-29 15:14:36
12.   Shaun P
Schteeve, I feel somewhat the same, but I've decided its just because Simmons is a Sox fan. If he were a Yankees fan, probably many people in Boston would otherwise enjoy his writings but not his baseball ones.

He'll be at a bookstore near my work on Monday - if the Sox are out of the playoffs, I think I have to go listen to him, right?

watziznehm2, you're right on with ESPN being more like MTV - the horrid MTV of today, not the fantastic MTV of 15 years ago. I remember when ESPN was so good - and now it mostly sucks.

2005-09-29 15:27:12
13.   alterity
it's funny that all year i've been hearing from sox fans that their line-up (damon, rentaria, ortiz, manram, nixon, varitek, etc) are better than ours. well that's not funny. what's funny is that simmons has the nerve to now say that the sox wouldn't be anything without ortiz. well i guess that's why they hung onto manram, because he doesn't really add anything to the team.

the mvp race doesn't mean anything if the yanks don't make the playoffs. and i'll trade a world series for any number of individual awards. however, if you look up win shares through last week (http://www.hardballtimes.com/, look under stats) you'll see that not only does arod lead ortiz (even without the glove being taken into consideration) but SO DOES SHEFFIELD. are we really going to give the award to someone who's third in the league in in shares? well, don't answer that because last year vlad got it and he was fifth behind sheff, arod, matsui, and tejada.

2005-09-29 15:29:54
14.   Schteeve
Not to mention that Giambi has a higher OPS than Ortiz.
2005-09-29 15:32:01
15.   Schteeve
Correction to #14, giambi's OPS has slipped below Ortiz's.
2005-09-29 15:55:04
16.   Bill
My nightly request for any rationale for Ruben being in the lineup. Last night tocho advised that he was 4-10 vs Cabrera. I don't think he's ever faced Bedard so what's tonight's answer?
2005-09-29 15:58:17
17.   Schteeve
Bill, Every day before the game he brings Torre a plate of freshly baked Toll House Cookies. Mmmmm mmmmm mmmmmm.
2005-09-29 15:59:10
18.   Shaun P
Torre forgets or doesn't realize that Bubba hits lefties, while he's sure that Sierra does? Best guess I've got, Bill.
2005-09-29 16:00:05
19.   Shaun P
ROTFLOL, Schteeve - I like your reason better. Don't forget the green tea! =)
2005-09-29 16:00:18
20.   rilkefan
I went "ack" when I saw Sierra's name, but who would you prefer? Could Tino switch from dh to 1st later?
2005-09-29 16:02:22
21.   tocho
This is from Simmons' article, this can only come from a clown, not from a sportswriter:

"As for this year's AL MVP race, A-Rod backers point to impressive stats and excellent play at third, conveniently ignoring a lack of leadership and a comical tendency to turn into Roy Hobbs only during blowouts. When the Yankees are leading by 30 or more runs, A-Rod is hitting .950 with 19 HRs and 45 RBIs. All right, I made that up. But he's certainly no David Ortiz, the most dangerous clutch hitter in baseball, in addition to being the soul of Boston's clubhouse and the emotional center of the team. Without him, this year's Sox would be a .500 team, or worse. That makes him the MVP. But since he doesn't play in the field, the door will stay open until the AL East plays itself out."

Bill, Ruben is playing tonight, because he looked awesome yesterday with the bat, duh.

2005-09-29 16:07:44
22.   BklynBomber
Tonight's lineup:

Jeter
A-Rod
Giambi, 1B
Sheffield, RF
Matsui, LF
Posada
Sierra, DH
Williams, CF
Cano

Nobody asked me, but... flop Mats and Giambi, scratch Sierra, start Bubba in center, Bernie DHs...

2005-09-29 16:15:48
23.   Schteeve
Can someone confirm the Yankees magic number for me? Is it 2?
2005-09-29 16:16:46
24.   rilkefan
NY magic #: 4
RS, Cleveland: 5
2005-09-29 16:17:03
25.   tocho
C'mon JG, hit the ball somewhere far.
2005-09-29 16:17:40
26.   randym77
Giambi baby!
2005-09-29 16:17:50
27.   BklynBomber
Nice start! The Giambeeeeeeeeeeno, 3-run HR!
2005-09-29 16:17:53
28.   atc
THE GIAMBINO!!!
2005-09-29 16:17:57
29.   tocho
thanks JG.
2005-09-29 16:17:58
30.   Schteeve
GIAMBI
2005-09-29 16:18:24
31.   BklynBomber
Has the Sox-Jays started yet?
2005-09-29 16:18:44
32.   atc
nice job cliff
2005-09-29 16:19:06
33.   BklynBomber
#25, ask and ye shall receive...
2005-09-29 16:19:11
34.   Jen
I think that shot hit Boog's.
2005-09-29 16:21:30
35.   rilkefan
Ortiz Ks to end 1st. 0-0.
2005-09-29 16:21:51
36.   Schteeve
Bedard's thrown 24 pitches and gotten None out. Looks like a short night for him.
2005-09-29 16:43:09
37.   randym77
Sox are down 0-2.
2005-09-29 16:47:39
38.   Zack
having major issues getting onto the site, must be too many people checking their BB today!
2005-09-29 16:47:57
39.   Schteeve
bedard has zilch in the way of good stuf tonight.
2005-09-29 16:48:15
40.   BklynBomber
Let's not take the rest of the night off, Yanks...
2005-09-29 16:48:33
41.   Schteeve
of course he did just k jetes and alex.
2005-09-29 16:48:54
42.   watziznehm2
Schteeve still good enuff to K A-Rod ;)
2005-09-29 16:49:14
43.   fgasparini
Frickin' Torre.

I don't think he's a very good game manager, but I also find it hard to criticize his reliever usage when most of them stick so bad.

However, he must have NOTICED they are bad. And in that case, you'd think he'd want to score so many runs that relief pitching wouldn't be an issue.

So, 4 runs up up in a crucial game, pitcher on the ropes with no outs in the second, leadoff man aboard with a double and Torre...

Has Jeter bunt. What a moron.

2005-09-29 16:53:09
44.   MikeK
48 mins in and my ears are already bleeding (to paraphrase):
-Contreras as the best pitcher in the league over the 2nd half? Sure, Santana's not a pitcher right, maybe he's a "hurler".

-Supporting Derek's multiple(!) bunt attempts with a 4 run lead in the 2nd. No explanation necessary

Atta'boy Shef! Giambi, you fat bastard!

2005-09-29 16:54:39
45.   watziznehm2
What makes Giambi think he's fast????
2005-09-29 16:54:52
46.   BklynBomber
#38 — Same here, Zack... very slooooow at times, or times out completely...
2005-09-29 16:55:03
47.   BklynBomber
#38 — Same here, Zack... very slooooow or times out completely...
2005-09-29 16:57:59
48.   Zack
Runners first and third, one out, rent. up in Boston
2005-09-29 16:58:00
49.   KYK
knock wood - it looks like the yanks are in control here. maybe i'm being optimistic. at this point, i'm interested in watching the BOS-TOR game.
2005-09-29 16:58:08
50.   watziznehm2
One out runners at the corners for the Sux
Show/Hide Comments 51-100
2005-09-29 16:58:39
51.   yankz
I don't think this qualifies as a jinx, so I'll state what everyone already knows: If the Yankees and Blue Jays hold on, then all our boys have to do to clinch the division is avoid a sweep. Wonderful.
2005-09-29 16:59:24
52.   watziznehm2
Fat Poppy up...
2005-09-29 16:59:28
53.   Zack
Fielders choice for Rent, 2-1 Jays. one on two out for Ortiz
2005-09-29 17:00:10
54.   Mattpat11
2-1 TO with Renteria on first and Big Fatty up.
2005-09-29 17:00:54
55.   yankz
Fat man K's!!!!
2005-09-29 17:01:05
56.   watziznehm2
And Fat Poppy down......
2005-09-29 17:01:07
57.   Mattpat11
Fat Papi Ks
2005-09-29 17:01:16
58.   Zack
Ortiz ks, inning over
2005-09-29 17:03:08
59.   KYK
was the ump just giving jorge crap for thinking he got hit?
2005-09-29 17:03:17
60.   watziznehm2
I hate it when they go down looking.. and it seems to be happening often of late or is it just me..
2005-09-29 17:03:20
61.   MikeK
Re 51: I don't care if everyone and their sister knows, that's still a fucking jinx.

Go run around your house 3 times or something. Go. NOW!

2005-09-29 17:05:23
62.   Mattpat11
Well that wasnt any fun
2005-09-29 17:06:22
63.   tocho
A blowout would be just what the doctor ordered (literally for most of us, I'm tired of these stomach aches), we all need a night off (including the Yankees real bullpen).
2005-09-29 17:07:39
64.   MikeK
Before I can mock Surhoff's .287 OBP he goes and gets a hit. Fucker.
2005-09-29 17:08:13
65.   watziznehm2
nice.. DP
2005-09-29 17:09:06
66.   randym77
Jeter took care of him. :)
2005-09-29 17:09:22
67.   BklynBomber
Small got squeezed there...
2005-09-29 17:10:07
68.   tocho
C'mon Aaron don't walk the number 9 hitter. Throw strikes.
2005-09-29 17:12:10
69.   Mattpat11
This is going to hell
2005-09-29 17:12:13
70.   tocho
STRIKES!
2005-09-29 17:12:27
71.   watziznehm2
damn... back to back walks
2005-09-29 17:13:29
72.   BklynBomber
This ump is a ball-buster
2005-09-29 17:14:28
73.   Mattpat11
Oh Christ. You cant walk Chris Gomez
2005-09-29 17:15:24
74.   KYK
dammit! we jinxed it. melt down in the third.
2005-09-29 17:15:24
75.   Mattpat11
God damn it Aaron, every ball you throw gets us one step closer to a Jaret Wright playoff appearence
2005-09-29 17:15:25
76.   MikeK
ugh
2005-09-29 17:15:25
77.   yankz
Yikes, Small...
2005-09-29 17:16:07
78.   tocho
Damn Small!!!!!! Walked the bases loaded with a 5-0 lead.

He doesn't want the stomach ache to leave yet

2005-09-29 17:16:09
79.   watziznehm2
Has he turned into the pumpkin all of a sudden
2005-09-29 17:16:14
80.   randym77
Oy. This could suck. C'mon, Smally!
2005-09-29 17:16:34
81.   MikeK
tocho, your turn for some house-laps...
2005-09-29 17:16:44
82.   Mattpat11
Manny singled to lead off the inning for Fairytek
2005-09-29 17:17:20
83.   BklynBomber
There, that was easy...
2005-09-29 17:17:25
84.   Mattpat11
Thank God.
2005-09-29 17:17:41
85.   KYK
thank fucking god! small got out of that jam.
2005-09-29 17:17:43
86.   randym77
Phew! You did it, baby! Mora's not easy to strike out, but you did it!
2005-09-29 17:18:00
87.   yankz
NICE high heat!!
2005-09-29 17:18:01
88.   watziznehm2
pheeeeeeeew.... man.. I can't take this..
2005-09-29 17:18:30
89.   Cliff Corcoran
Small is nails. Buncha Chicken Littles up in here, it's 5-0 in the third.

(and thanks, atc)

2005-09-29 17:18:47
90.   Rosbif22
i'm going to have a heart attack, i know it
2005-09-29 17:19:35
91.   tocho
Exhale!

So, in Simmons' logic A-Rod should hit his Homeruns tonight, right? OK, I'll take a couple (with men on, if its not too much to ask).

2005-09-29 17:20:26
92.   watziznehm2
LOL.......good one tocho....
2005-09-29 17:20:39
93.   Mattpat11
runner on first for Millah
2005-09-29 17:23:32
94.   tocho
OK, I'm back from the laps...
2005-09-29 17:30:02
95.   BklynBomber
If we knew then what we know now, Aaron Small could've been a 30 game winner this season ;-)
2005-09-29 17:30:03
96.   marc
with Cleveland up 6-0 this weekend is shaping up as even more of a gladiator fight to the death for the division if that's possible
2005-09-29 17:30:08
97.   Mattpat11
much better inning
2005-09-29 17:31:52
98.   randym77
4-1 Jays! Catalonatto hit a homer!
2005-09-29 17:32:22
99.   Mattpat11
The Cat Homers!!
2005-09-29 17:32:42
100.   KYK
Catalanotto is the RS killer this week!
Show/Hide Comments 101-150
2005-09-29 17:32:43
101.   watziznehm2
Catalanotto is on fire...
2005-09-29 17:33:01
102.   Cliff Corcoran
Maybe the Yanks should try to acquire Frankie the Cat for '06. He'd be a great UT man.
2005-09-29 17:33:19
103.   watziznehm2
Another SB for Arod...
2005-09-29 17:33:24
104.   BklynBomber
If all goes as planned over the weekend, Catalonatto must be cut in for a playoff share...
2005-09-29 17:33:29
105.   tocho
marc, I would say with Cleveland up 6-0 and with the White sox having clinched, they will throw their B team out there for an Indians feast.

Meanwhile, did you see Clement's face after the HR. Talk about a deer in headlights! he's soooooo spoked!

2005-09-29 17:33:30
106.   Mattpat11
Lets see Fat Papi try that!
2005-09-29 17:34:20
107.   fgasparini
Man on second, nobody out? HAVE GIAMBI BUNT!!! FOR ALL LOVE, JOE!!!
2005-09-29 17:34:36
108.   MikeK
I think we should pick up Cat for this weekend's series ;)
2005-09-29 17:35:19
109.   BklynBomber
OK, Sheff, let's put this one to bed...
2005-09-29 17:36:07
110.   Mattpat11
Clement is Vazquezing up!
2005-09-29 17:37:06
111.   atc
I think I read somewhere that Catalonatto's teammates call him "Frankie the Yankee," because he's from LI.
2005-09-29 17:37:51
112.   tocho
C'mon Hideki, its been a while, you know you're due
2005-09-29 17:38:24
113.   Mattpat11
Wow, Even Eric Hinske is controbuting!!
2005-09-29 17:38:51
114.   watziznehm2
Bases juiced.. Rios up
2005-09-29 17:39:14
115.   tocho
Bases juiced, one out for the Yanks and for the Jays....
2005-09-29 17:40:07
116.   Cliff Corcoran
Jays and Yanks both with bases loaded 1 out in the 5th!
2005-09-29 17:41:07
117.   BklynBomber
The stars are getting aligned...
2005-09-29 17:41:14
118.   Cliff Corcoran
FC at home in Boston, two outs.
2005-09-29 17:41:35
119.   Mattpat11
Alex Rios sucks.
2005-09-29 17:42:13
120.   BklynBomber
A gang o'green lights tonight...
2005-09-29 17:42:45
121.   Mattpat11
6-0!
2005-09-29 17:42:49
122.   Cliff Corcoran
Jorge BB, 6-0. Gabe Gross still up in Boston.
2005-09-29 17:44:28
123.   BklynBomber
At least the ump is consistent tonight...
2005-09-29 17:44:57
124.   Mattpat11
Yeah, Jason wasnt going to score on that
2005-09-29 17:44:59
125.   Cliff Corcoran
Two outs in Baltimore, full count in Boston.
2005-09-29 17:45:55
126.   BklynBomber
Go boom, Bernie, go boom!
2005-09-29 17:46:12
127.   Mattpat11
What exactly is Gabe Gross good at?
2005-09-29 17:46:18
128.   yankz
Crap, BloSox got out of it. That lead's not safe.
2005-09-29 17:46:59
129.   Cliff Corcoran
Groundout in Boston, no extra runs for the Jays, still 4-1.
2005-09-29 17:47:18
130.   watziznehm2
I hope that dosen't come back to bite the Jays in the ass.....
2005-09-29 17:47:47
131.   watziznehm2
damn it.. and us for that matter..
2005-09-29 17:47:51
132.   Mattpat11
that wasnt fun. Oh well.
2005-09-29 17:48:32
134.   yankz
God dammit, neither team drives home the runs with the bases loaded
2005-09-29 17:48:38
135.   Cliff Corcoran
Wow, both ended in grounders to first. Scary synchronicity there.
2005-09-29 17:50:56
136.   marc
In both games blow-out chances in favor of the Yankees fail to convert. I don't like that measly 3 run lead for Jays but better than the other way.
2005-09-29 17:52:40
137.   marc
shit Boston gets a walk. Wow, sounds like a great play by Hideki
2005-09-29 17:53:35
138.   Cliff Corcoran
Wow, both ended in grounders to first. Scary synchronicity there.
2005-09-29 17:54:15
139.   Alex Belth
Man, nice job of settling down by Small. After walking the bases loaded in the third, he's retired seven in a row.

Hey, am I a greedy bastard for being pissed at Ruben and Bernie for not getting a hit there--and especially Ruben for at least not getting another run home?

2005-09-29 17:54:22
140.   BklynBomber
If we can run this up to a 10 or 12 run lead, Newhan should get one right between the numbers later on — a) for robbing Sheff of his 3rd HR Tuesday night, and mainly (b) for stealing with a 8 run lead. Just a thought... ;-)
2005-09-29 17:55:29
141.   Cliff Corcoran
I had no confidence in Hideki making that play and even when he did I didn't believe my eyes. I mean, it was a running catch, not a dive or a leap, but he covered a lot of ground on a ball that was hit pretty hard.
2005-09-29 17:56:59
142.   tocho
marc, it was a great running catch by Matsui, one rare thing as you know.

I just hope Small can go at least 8 innings and they don't use Gordon or Mariano. Which means the Yanks need to score at least 5 more runs for the 11-run lead to hold with the B bullpen...

Meanwhile, the BlowSux, just recorded their 2nd out of the inning.

2005-09-29 17:57:06
143.   marc
was that Milwaukee letting everyone in for free and only 13,000 showed up. I guess we should be happy we have exciting baseball.
2005-09-29 17:59:27
144.   BklynBomber
Anyone know where Moose's career record at Fenway can be found online? Thanks!
2005-09-29 17:59:34
145.   Zack
GOing into 6th, still 4-1 Jays...We need to score more runs so as not to use GorMo, which would be huge in so many ways
2005-09-29 17:59:40
146.   tocho
Inning over for the BlowSux. Clement has 94 pitches so the kids in their bullpen must be warming up.
2005-09-29 18:00:13
147.   marc
thanks tocho. I hope Matsui is appreciated, he'd probably be the star on most teams.
2005-09-29 18:00:32
148.   Zack
Bklyn, go to yahoo sports and check his split stats, since 198something, they offer that and under it it gives career Fenway marks
2005-09-29 18:00:38
149.   yankz
Jeter takes that inside pitch for strike 3 a lot.
2005-09-29 18:01:53
150.   BklynBomber
Thanks, Zack. Much appreciated!
Show/Hide Comments 151-200
2005-09-29 18:02:10
151.   marc
jays lead off hit Clement goes byby
2005-09-29 18:06:16
152.   atc
What do you suppose Wang and Johnson talked about on their flight up to Boston this evening?
2005-09-29 18:08:40
153.   JVarghese81
Hey, just a thought but I was taking a quick look at Clement's ASB splits - great before the first half...falling apart afterward. Got me to thinking...who does that remind you of...JAVY VAZQUEZ! The splits are interesting to see - very similar though Javy was more extreme - better first, worse second half...just thought it was interesting considering how I as a Yankee fan got a ton of flak about Home Run Javy last year from my former roomate, a Red Sox fan.
2005-09-29 18:08:41
154.   tocho
Here comes Frankie the Yankee. Just hit it farther this time Frankie!
2005-09-29 18:09:02
155.   Zack
Myers in, and on espn gamecast he has a seattle hat on, on yahoo, a Cards hat. How hard is it to get a pic of him with a Sox hat on, considering hes been there for two seasons!
2005-09-29 18:09:44
156.   Shaun P
atc, I'd like to be a fly on the inside wall of that plane! Does anyone know if Wang can speak English well?

Cliff, nice job tonight, IMHO you have a good radio voice - not quite what I imagined in my head you'd sound like, but not too far off. =)

2005-09-29 18:10:17
157.   marc
small 86 pitches through 6. I guess that's a little much to try to go all the way. A chance to make it through 8. All of course if he stays sharp
2005-09-29 18:12:10
158.   Zack
The times fluff piece on Wang today said he speaks little to no English
2005-09-29 18:12:26
159.   Shaun P
I think Small has to come out to at least start the 7th. Have someone up (Sturtze? maybe F-Rod? Dare I suggest Wright?) in case he gets in trouble.

Giambi on second, none out - let's go laser Sheff!

2005-09-29 18:13:19
160.   tocho
OK; they got Frankie out, here comes Wells with men in 2nd
2005-09-29 18:15:32
161.   randym77
BANZAI!
2005-09-29 18:15:49
162.   BklynBomber
'Bout time, 'Zilla ;-)
2005-09-29 18:16:00
163.   Shaun P
GODZILLLLLLLLLLLLLLLA!
2005-09-29 18:16:08
164.   Alex Belth
Gonezilla.
2005-09-29 18:16:09
165.   Zack
Nice 2 run HR for Hit-deki, pile them on so Mo can rest!
2005-09-29 18:16:31
166.   JVarghese81
I called that homerun! I have witnesses!!!
2005-09-29 18:16:57
167.   Jen
Home Run Matsui! Home Run Matsui!
2005-09-29 18:17:06
168.   KYK
okay - if we don't use Mo and Flash - who do we put in here? I figure this maybe a good time to give F-Rod more work. I think he's a decent pitcher that just doesn't get enough work. What does everyone think?
2005-09-29 18:17:09
169.   Jen
Home Run Matsui! Home Run Matsui!
2005-09-29 18:17:48
170.   Jen
doh!
2005-09-29 18:17:53
171.   Zack
Gamecast says Oritz reached on infield single to shortstop, whatever that means, but one on, no outs
2005-09-29 18:18:34
172.   joe in boston
Just got in everyone. Is this great or what ? How does this sound: clinching at Fenway ?!

(hope I didn't jinx anything !)

2005-09-29 18:19:15
173.   marc
Sterling scared me with that Matsui call.He voice dropped after high and far like it was going to be caught. I was almost surprised after he finally said gone after a long pause. Hideus play in Boston lets Ortiz get on and knocks out the pitcher
2005-09-29 18:19:52
174.   Bags
Okay can someone enlighten me once and for all as to what the Yanks' magic number is?

4 as per fox.com? 3 as per the YES men?

Think they were just expounding on it on YES but I was out of the room...

2005-09-29 18:20:48
175.   tocho
OK, joe time for your 3 laps around your house. Now, if you're a Sox fan, ignore this and keep trying to jinx the Yanks.
2005-09-29 18:21:40
176.   Zack
Damn, 2 run Manny HR, 4-3, momentum swing in Boston
2005-09-29 18:21:45
177.   watziznehm2
Damn it home run Manny...
2005-09-29 18:21:48
178.   marc
Is Wright officially in the bullpen or is he available if they want to take a look at him. Oh fuck now manny homers with ortiz on base. one run game now
2005-09-29 18:22:16
179.   Yankee Fan in Chicago
Dammit. Why take out a lefty and bring in a righty to face Manny. He's hitting .231 vs lefties this year. Over .300 vs righties.
2005-09-29 18:22:22
180.   tocho
Damn Manny, 2-run HR. 4-3 jays.
2005-09-29 18:22:37
181.   Mattpat11
Hurricane Manny just hit 4-3
2005-09-29 18:23:36
182.   KYK
crap, crap, crap 4-3 jays
2005-09-29 18:25:03
183.   yankz
Toronto MUST HOLD THAT LEAD.
2005-09-29 18:25:10
184.   Shaun P
marc, I believe a Times piece this morning said Wright was in the 'pen - I'd try F-Rod or Wright - NOW. Crud. Only two runs, though.
2005-09-29 18:25:25
185.   Zack
Damn, 2 run HR for Lopez, trying their best to make sure Mo has to pitch
2005-09-29 18:25:53
186.   Max
No cakewalk to the pennant, guys. Toronto had too many LOB and if they don't get to the Sox relief, it's going to stay a one game lead when we hit Fenway.
2005-09-29 18:26:17
187.   tocho
Shit, now we have to think what are they supposed to do with a 6-run lead and 7 outs to go.
2005-09-29 18:26:21
188.   Shaun P
Agreed yankz, but it'd be better if Toronto ADDs to that lead!
2005-09-29 18:27:20
189.   Zack
Millar walks, one on one out, same inning in Boston
2005-09-29 18:27:53
190.   yankz
Crap, one on one out for sox
2005-09-29 18:28:00
191.   Zack
Frasor not throwing strikes...

And with the hit I bet Small is gone, and Tanyon comes in making it inevitable that Gordon and Mo pitch tonight

2005-09-29 18:28:04
192.   tocho
Just hold on for one more out Small!
2005-09-29 18:28:16
193.   BklynBomber
Small will get it done here...
2005-09-29 18:28:23
194.   joe in boston
Ah Tocho - not to worry. Born in 1960 in upstate NY, saw Mantle play his last season (my first game with my dad at the big ball park in the Bronx, Yankee flag on my garage, 2 sons fully dressed in Yankee gear.

We got this locked up

2005-09-29 18:28:47
195.   yankz
YEAH!
2005-09-29 18:29:23
196.   BklynBomber
is keeping mouth shut for a while...
2005-09-29 18:29:51
197.   yankz
Um, post 195 was referring to the Boston game. Mueller GIDP.
2005-09-29 18:30:57
198.   tocho
OK, joe, just checking, now please take your laps.
2005-09-29 18:31:25
199.   KYK
why why why the fuck does joe always wait until it too late to pull a pitcher? oh crap, its sturtze.
2005-09-29 18:31:34
200.   Zack
And here comes Tanyon, with the bases loaded and who has no control, so by the end of the inning it will be at best 3 run lead, and Gordon will already be in..ugh
Show/Hide Comments 201-250
2005-09-29 18:31:39
201.   Alex Belth
Dammit. It don't come easy. Sturtze? Dude...
2005-09-29 18:32:11
202.   marc
warm up gordon in case Sturtze sucks
2005-09-29 18:32:12
203.   Cliff Corcoran
Torre always waits until the bases are loaded, fortunately the Yanks are still up by six and there are already two outs.
2005-09-29 18:32:24
204.   yankz
Who's coming in?
2005-09-29 18:32:42
205.   MikeK
yeah joe, get lapping, you must appease the baseball gods.
2005-09-29 18:33:21
206.   tocho
Shit. Bases loaded Tanyon coming in. I just hope its the good Tanyon and not the shitty Tanyon.

We need Mo and Gordon on full strength!

2005-09-29 18:34:11
207.   marc
I can unhappily stand if one of these games miserably goes against us but both games would feel like a stake through the heart
2005-09-29 18:34:13
208.   Zack
one out, Palpabon in for Sox...
2005-09-29 18:35:25
209.   Zack
GOOD JOB STURTZE!! Okay, Tanyon needs to start the 8th, and then hopefully someone else in the 9th, maybe F-Rod
2005-09-29 18:35:45
210.   marc
yes!
2005-09-29 18:35:57
211.   randym77
Thank you, Tanyon!

I take back everything I said about your pitching when you come into a jam...

2005-09-29 18:36:10
212.   tocho
OK, now please some "insurance runs" for our B bullpen...
2005-09-29 18:36:36
213.   BklynBomber
Good work, Tanyon! Now c'mon, bats — pile on in honor of your savior, St. Mo
2005-09-29 18:37:22
214.   marc
what is it with you guys and F-Rod. We need to win this game if we can and if it means Gormo than so be it.
2005-09-29 18:37:54
215.   Max
Unbelievable, 6-0 and 8-2 leads, high octane offense humming, and we're sweating bullets with one of the worst teams in baseball batting against us with runners on. So sad, but so understandable.
2005-09-29 18:38:15
216.   Zack
Amazing how the Sox trust and use thier kids, so they actually have some options that have been used enough but still aren't overused...
2005-09-29 18:38:32
217.   singledd
Palpabon has impressed me in general (althought he just gave up a hit). I think we will see a lot of this kid over the next years.
2005-09-29 18:38:53
218.   watziznehm2
Come on Gross don't screw up this time...
2005-09-29 18:39:41
219.   Zack
Marc, if we win this game at the expense of Mo and Gordon having to pitch yesterday, today, and then all three games over the weekend, then we are in big big trouble. Especially with how the Sox hit them in Fenway...Bring in Frod with no one on and we will see, we always have GorMo if needed
2005-09-29 18:39:56
220.   singledd
So.... is F-EmProc able to hold a six run lead for 6 outs?
2005-09-29 18:40:13
221.   yankz
Come on, Gross, you owe us...
2005-09-29 18:40:31
222.   BklynBomber
This game can't end quick enough. For a split sec, I thought it was top the 9th...
2005-09-29 18:40:33
223.   watziznehm2
Gross sucks
2005-09-29 18:41:08
224.   yankz
Rats.
2005-09-29 18:42:17
225.   Mattpat11
What is Gabe Gross good at?
2005-09-29 18:42:22
226.   Zack
And Palpabon gets through the 7th
2005-09-29 18:42:43
227.   yankz
You just know Big Fat Ugly Papi is going to bat again, and that's terrifying.
2005-09-29 18:42:44
228.   tocho
3-4-5 batters coming up... We need a good Tanyon inning...

Boston batting bottom of the 7th. still 4-3. Its all up to the Jays' bullpen now.

2005-09-29 18:43:19
229.   singledd
Please... lets not talk about GorMo in this game. We will probably need to take 2 of 4 from the Sox. We need to save our bullets.
2005-09-29 18:43:37
230.   Mattpat11
Chulk warming up. Good Lord, tell him to sit his ass back down!
2005-09-29 18:44:12
231.   watziznehm2
Yeah its not looking good for the Jay's. We need GorMo fully rested for the weekend.
2005-09-29 18:44:24
232.   Mattpat11
we only play three against the Sox
2005-09-29 18:45:19
233.   tocho
That splitter ain't working Tanyon... just please throw STRIKES
2005-09-29 18:45:27
234.   watziznehm2
Damn it with a six run lead why cant he throw strikes..
2005-09-29 18:46:12
235.   Mattpat11
Jays are collapsing. Shortstop booted the ball.

Adams is going to singlehandedly lose this game

2005-09-29 18:46:12
236.   yankz
Come on, Adams, you're killing me.
2005-09-29 18:46:54
237.   Zack
As with every year, Torre's total abuse of the bullpen comes back to haunt him
2005-09-29 18:47:29
238.   tocho
C'mon DP
2005-09-29 18:47:53
239.   marc
good, gordon's warming. Sturtze with a stupid walk. and now Sox are threatening with tying run on base with only one out
2005-09-29 18:48:33
240.   Mattpat11
Jesus Ks. Renteria up with two out and a runner on first
2005-09-29 18:48:45
241.   Zack
Fuck! Like I said, here comes Gordon, our bullpen sucks, and our prospects this weekend take a HUGE hit
2005-09-29 18:48:50
242.   KYK
okay - time to pull sturtze. joe's going to go with gordon and mo. damn, they could have used the break.
2005-09-29 18:49:02
243.   tocho
No comments Tanyon...
2005-09-29 18:49:15
244.   Mattpat11
STURTZE SUCKS
2005-09-29 18:49:51
245.   Zack
Gee Joe, I wonder why Sturtze's arm looks like its about to fall off??
2005-09-29 18:50:48
246.   The Bear
wow.. he sucked big time..
2005-09-29 18:50:49
247.   KYK
Looks like Leiter and Sturtze are only good for getting 1 or 2 outs tops. not a good position to be in. sigh.
2005-09-29 18:51:03
248.   tocho
Incredible... nobody can get out in that bullpen outside of Gordon and Mariano!
2005-09-29 18:51:30
249.   Mattpat11
I find in unbelivable that a man that used to be a starter is shot after 78 innings.
2005-09-29 18:51:38
250.   Mattpat11
I find in unbelivable that a man that used to be a starter is shot after 78 innings.
Show/Hide Comments 251-300
2005-09-29 18:52:26
251.   BklynBomber
God is still a Yankee fan... 3-0 greenlight on that made no sense...
2005-09-29 18:52:28
252.   tocho
The stomach ache has officialy kicked in... again...
2005-09-29 18:52:49
253.   yankz
I'm gone for 3 minutes...and Gordon is in.

WTF

2005-09-29 18:52:54
254.   Mattpat11
Renteria grounds out with the tying run at second
2005-09-29 18:52:59
255.   Zack
Rent grounds out to end 7th, meaning Ortiz comes up with bases empty in the 8th
2005-09-29 18:53:01
256.   KYK
three pitches! way to go flash.
2005-09-29 18:53:05
257.   marc
whew, nice play lets Jays hold a one run lead after 7
2005-09-29 18:53:48
258.   KYK
so - do leave flash - or go with mo? maybe at least mo will get some rest.
2005-09-29 18:54:06
259.   Mattpat11
three pitches by Flash, so ultimately no harm, I guess.
2005-09-29 18:54:22
260.   Alex Belth
Yo, I'm pleased with the result but what is Javey Lopez some kind of asshole or what swinging at that pitch?
2005-09-29 18:54:26
261.   watziznehm2
Now lets all get some runs...
2005-09-29 18:54:29
262.   singledd
Big break on a 3-0 ball 4.
Sox still at 4-3 after 7.
Ortiz to lead off the 8th... which is the best place to see Ortiz. If Toronto can get through the 8th, we are looking pretty good.
2005-09-29 18:54:33
263.   BklynBomber
Flash or Mo in the 9th? Who do we tax?
2005-09-29 18:54:47
264.   Zack
Yankz, the moral is clearly not to go away again...ever.

Amazing, considering all of our griping, GorMo ARE the only ones who can get outs, which of course is a sad reflection of our mistrust of our kids, Torre's overuse/underuse of people, and the pitcher's general crapiness.

Soooooo, does Mo come in for the 9th? Or do we try to start F-rod or proctor? My guess would be we should go with Proctor, then see what happens (and Mo will of course have to come in)

2005-09-29 18:55:13
265.   tocho
OK, jays coming up to bat in the 8th.

the bottom of the 8th. has Big, fat, papi, followed by stupid, lazy, ugly manny. After that, looks like blue skies...

2005-09-29 18:56:16
266.   marc
time for Jays and yankees to put some runs on the board, especially the Jays
2005-09-29 18:56:19
267.   watziznehm2
Hope the Jay's get some runs here...
2005-09-29 18:56:56
268.   yankz
Let's go Frankie C
2005-09-29 18:57:22
269.   randym77
Looks like he's going with Scott Proctor.
2005-09-29 18:58:05
270.   Mattpat11
Fat Papi leads of the 8th
2005-09-29 18:58:20
271.   tocho
I like that idea Zack and looks like a possibility. Proctor is warming up. After all "its not a save situation".

3 outs to go!

2005-09-29 18:58:45
272.   yankz
Drat, they go in order. 265 sounds about right.
2005-09-29 18:58:52
273.   BklynBomber
Looked like the O was already getting on the plane for Beantown in the top of the 9th...
2005-09-29 18:59:01
274.   Alex Belth
Dude, he's gunna bring Proctor in? Why not just go right to Mo if that's the case? Gee-suz.
2005-09-29 18:59:22
275.   KYK
re: 269. Shit! you're kidding me! proctor better have a short, short leash.
2005-09-29 18:59:28
276.   Mattpat11
Can Proctor get three outs without givin up four runs?
2005-09-29 18:59:57
277.   tocho
C'mon Proctor prove us all wrong!
2005-09-29 19:00:03
278.   Bill
Only issue is does he give up a homer or a walk first?
2005-09-29 19:00:07
279.   marc
shit papelbon has easy 1-2-3. Going to bottom of 8th I have to say the Sox are the favorites. then again while their middle relief demoloshes ours as the Little League does, we kill the sox in closers
2005-09-29 19:00:08
280.   Mattpat11
Tell Chulk to go away!
2005-09-29 19:00:32
281.   Cliff Corcoran
I might have left Gordon in, but if he only needed three pitches in the eighth I can understand trying to get away with having both Mo and Gordon available for tomorrow.
2005-09-29 19:01:10
282.   Mattpat11
Fat Papi hits a homer.

FUCKING VINNIE FUCKING CHULK

2005-09-29 19:01:22
283.   marc
ortiz fat piece of shit ties game
2005-09-29 19:01:30
284.   yankz
Like we didn't see it coming...

MVP! MVP! (JUST KIDDING JUST KIDDING)

2005-09-29 19:01:31
285.   tocho
Why the hell is not Showenwhatever not pitching to Ortiz?
2005-09-29 19:01:42
286.   singledd
Shit! Ortiz ties it.
2005-09-29 19:01:43
287.   Zack
Proctor gets one batter I imagine. One gets on (unless two outs already) and Mo is in. Come on Scott!! Come up huge!! throw Strikes!!

Fuck Ortiz HR, big surprise, and the Ortiz for MVP goons come out again

2005-09-29 19:01:57
288.   Bill
Why Chulk and not Scheonweiss?
2005-09-29 19:02:15
289.   Zack
A nice little "only in Fenway over the monster shot"
2005-09-29 19:02:56
290.   Mattpat11
Ive never wanted to physically harm someone like I want to harm Chulk right now.

Hey, Vinnie, in case you havent noticed, you fucking suck and shouldnt try to pitch to David Ortiz.

2005-09-29 19:03:01
291.   Cliff Corcoran
He's not the MVP (and let's not get into that discussion), but you have to be amazed by Ortiz.
2005-09-29 19:03:13
292.   KYK
two outs! go proctor!
2005-09-29 19:03:13
293.   Zack
Nice Scott, one out to go, come on baby!!
2005-09-29 19:03:39
294.   tocho
Re: 285, you get the point. DAMN. for a moment there I thought it was going to be easy.

Meanwhile, Proctor is one out away. C'mon man, help Mo.

2005-09-29 19:03:47
295.   watziznehm2
He seems to always get the big hit.. pretty amazing.
2005-09-29 19:03:49
296.   marc
why the hell didn't Jays have schoenweiss pitching? even the Boston announcers are shocked. Major League Baseball should have an investigation
2005-09-29 19:04:07
297.   Zack
Proctor overthrowing now, settle down
2005-09-29 19:04:12
298.   Mattpat11
GET FUCKING CHULK OFF THE FIELD
2005-09-29 19:04:24
299.   unpopster
un-fuckin-believable...Ortiz ties the game.
2005-09-29 19:04:33
300.   Zack
Hey Jorge, go talk to Scott
Show/Hide Comments 301-350
2005-09-29 19:05:18
301.   Mattpat11
Fuck you Vinnie Chulk. Fuck you.
2005-09-29 19:05:28
302.   watziznehm2
Looks like the Jays want to lose it in this inning itself.
2005-09-29 19:05:37
303.   Zack
damn single...kepe him in for at least another guy Joe
2005-09-29 19:05:49
304.   tocho
Stomach ache again
2005-09-29 19:05:55
305.   Zack
Chulk walks manny
2005-09-29 19:06:18
306.   Mattpat11
GOD DAMN YOU CHULK
2005-09-29 19:06:35
307.   Cliff Corcoran
Tek singles after a Manny walk. Corners no outs, they need to get someone else in there.
2005-09-29 19:06:53
308.   marc
Boston about to take the lead.
2005-09-29 19:07:02
309.   yankz
Toronto's done
2005-09-29 19:07:02
310.   Zack
Chalk sucks cant get anyone out, blows game for jays, yet all talk will be of Ortiz being clutch..nevermidn that he didn't get anyone else out either
2005-09-29 19:07:05
311.   randym77
Proctor did it!
2005-09-29 19:07:12
312.   Cliff Corcoran
PROCTAHHH!
2005-09-29 19:07:38
313.   Zack
Thank you Scott, you made me look good there...very good of you to keep Mo rested, especially since the Sox are on their way to winning
2005-09-29 19:08:04
314.   Cliff Corcoran
Chulk is still pitching (to Olerud).
2005-09-29 19:08:51
315.   Cliff Corcoran
No way the Sox don't take the lead here with Manny on third and no outs vs. Chulk. Then they just need three outs in the ninth to win.
2005-09-29 19:08:56
316.   Zack
So now that the Sox are on their way to this "dramatic, come from behind win" powered by "the clubhouse leader," they will have a lot of momentum going into the weekend, and we will still need to win two, which is a tough demand
2005-09-29 19:09:00
317.   tocho
Great win.

But I think we can kiss the 2-game lead goodbye, with the crappy jays bullpen.

2005-09-29 19:09:19
318.   Mattpat11
Vinnie fucking Chulk is still in this game?
2005-09-29 19:09:19
319.   yankz
If Chulk can get a DP (who are we kidding), the Jays can pull this one out.
2005-09-29 19:09:25
320.   Cliff Corcoran
Olerud fly to center, Manny didn't score. Mueller up.
2005-09-29 19:09:45
321.   mikeplugh
Damn Jays. Let's hope they pull off the double play and score in the top of the 9th.
2005-09-29 19:10:03
322.   Cliff Corcoran
Still Chulk.
2005-09-29 19:10:08
323.   tocho
C'mon DP!!
2005-09-29 19:11:04
324.   watziznehm2
Hoping for the jays to win today was hoping for a bit too much. gotta be 2 out of 3.. sigh..
2005-09-29 19:11:25
325.   Cliff Corcoran
Ah, but Zack 316, the Sox have to win three regardless of the outcome of tonight's game.
2005-09-29 19:12:01
326.   mikeplugh
OH YEAH!!! BIG K. One more.
2005-09-29 19:12:15
327.   Mattpat11
Mueller Ks. Just get out of this Chulk. At least give me that
2005-09-29 19:12:15
328.   Cliff Corcoran
Mueller K's! Nixon now. Gulp. Schoeneweis, please?!
2005-09-29 19:12:32
329.   KYK
mueller strikes out!
2005-09-29 19:12:45
330.   yankz
Chulk!!

Now please, please, PLEASE, score!!!

2005-09-29 19:13:01
331.   mikeplugh
GOOOOOO JAYSSSSS!!!! Get a run and finish this game baby.
2005-09-29 19:13:01
332.   Stormer Sports
Vernon Wells!
2005-09-29 19:13:23
333.   Cliff Corcoran
Chulk gets out of it! Man(ny) on third with no outs and Chulk gets out of it! Trot flied out to center!
2005-09-29 19:13:28
334.   Zack
Holy crap inning over score still tied, come on jays!
2005-09-29 19:14:21
335.   KYK
okay - if anyone's bullpen is worse than ours - it's gotta be boston's. let's go jays!
2005-09-29 19:14:42
336.   Cliff Corcoran
Was it a special catch?
2005-09-29 19:14:47
337.   marc
I don't believe in momentum in baseball. It's whoever's pitching. Meanwhile Boston is still in the 8th.and a great catch just snuffed them out in the 8th. Let's hope Jays push a few across in the 9th. then again make that 5 runs the Jays can use, not just a few
2005-09-29 19:15:23
338.   Mattpat11
Come on Wells.
2005-09-29 19:15:40
339.   Mattpat11
Come on Wells.
2005-09-29 19:16:08
340.   Cliff Corcoran
Wells, Koskie, Hinske, heart of the order up vs. Papelbon in his third inning of work. Very nice, if nothing else, he's burned for tomorrow.
2005-09-29 19:16:21
341.   Stormer Sports
I like our chances Cliff. Great game tonight. Small got it done. The offense was clicking, well, for the most part. More great defense!

Torre looks ready to limit the pen work to Gordon and Rivera unless we have a huge lead. He's learned. Here we go, all heads and hands inside the restraints!

2005-09-29 19:17:02
342.   Cliff Corcoran
Anyone actually see the catch? Can you describe it?
2005-09-29 19:17:06
343.   Mattpat11
Damn it. Now we have to pray that Koskie and Hinske contribute
2005-09-29 19:17:28
344.   marc
shit, this papelbon is looking good. hopefully he won't be available much tomorrow
2005-09-29 19:18:41
345.   randym77
It was a sliding catch. He was running full speed and covered a lot of ground, then sort of slid under it.
2005-09-29 19:18:42
346.   Mattpat11
Corey Koskie sucks
2005-09-29 19:18:44
347.   Bill
Wells covered a lot of ground to right center and made the catch with one of those short pop-up slides.
2005-09-29 19:18:53
348.   tocho
Wells saved at least 3 runs in that inning. That's what a good OF gives you, they save runs, ain't that a new concept.
2005-09-29 19:19:12
349.   watziznehm2
If the Sox got to win, I hope its in the 18th inning ;)
2005-09-29 19:19:56
350.   Stormer Sports
Cliff

It was a very hard hit ball hit to deep right center field with very little tail. Wells read it right away, made a bee line towards right and made a great catch hitting the turf smoothly following the grab.

Show/Hide Comments 351-400
2005-09-29 19:20:03
351.   yankz
Up to Hinske...(uhoh)
2005-09-29 19:20:44
352.   singledd
Anyone actually see the catch? Can you describe it?

Nixon hit a gapper to right-center. Well's at full speed made a slidding catch on a ball I was sure would find the gap. An 'A' play for sure.

2005-09-29 19:20:47
353.   Mattpat11
Why exactly is Corey Koskie hitting cleanup again? Was there a point where he was a viable enough hitter to hit cleanup?
2005-09-29 19:20:49
354.   mikeplugh
If this goes 13 or 14 innings and the Sox use up their pen, it will be almost as good as a loss....not quite as good, but at least they will be dogged out.
2005-09-29 19:21:03
355.   Mattpat11
Hinske doubles
2005-09-29 19:21:18
356.   watziznehm2
Isn't wells a FA next year?
2005-09-29 19:21:20
357.   marc
Hinske double
2005-09-29 19:21:24
358.   yankz
YES! Now Zaun...
2005-09-29 19:21:34
359.   Cliff Corcoran
I'm sorry, I trust Koskie more than anyone else in that line-up (save Frankie the Cat this week). Papelbon use still under 30 pitches, not that terrible, unfortunately. Very efficient.

Ooooh. Double by Hinske, Zaun up with two outs.

2005-09-29 19:21:41
360.   mikeplugh
Go Zaunie.
2005-09-29 19:21:46
361.   Zack
Yeah, Palpabon is the type we can't hit, a good, hard throwing youngster we haven't seen. Its them and the total crappy junk ballers like Frank Castillo and Wake that we can't touch
2005-09-29 19:22:02
362.   Mattpat11
mike, nothing that requires us to win two in Fenway is as good as something that requires us to win only one
2005-09-29 19:22:10
363.   unpopster
yup, let's hope this Sox-Jays game goes deep into extra innings...
2005-09-29 19:22:13
364.   yankz
How about an 18 inning loss :)
2005-09-29 19:22:57
365.   Mattpat11
Fucking Zaun.

If that bastard Chulk comes back out I'm breaking something

2005-09-29 19:23:20
366.   tocho
I'll be watching the bottom of the 9th. but on mute.
2005-09-29 19:23:49
367.   Cliff Corcoran
Zaun makes an out on two pitches, but Batista is in the game.
2005-09-29 19:23:58
368.   mikeplugh
I know Matt, but the Sox are probably going to win this one....back against the wall at home. I want the win bad, but a nice consolation would be a battered Sox pen.

Two is better than one for sure. Go Jays.

2005-09-29 19:24:24
369.   Zack
Jays strand another, they have really wasted chances in this game. Going into bottom of the 9th, tied at 4, and because of the long 8th, Ortiz is looming
2005-09-29 19:24:44
370.   Mattpat11
WTF kind of closer has an ERA of four?
2005-09-29 19:25:22
371.   singledd
I'm would guess no one will agree with me, but I think Torre has done an excellent job with the pen this last week. He has taken chances and pushed limits. And while sweat was sweat, we got the 'W's.

After all, the only advantage we have against Boston in Boston is GorMo. If we win, I'm sure they will ultimately be a big part of the reason why.

Torre threw his book away this week. And we have better then even odds of making the PS and maybe eliminating Boston from not only then division, but the PS as well.

Good Joe Torre.

2005-09-29 19:25:23
372.   mikeplugh
One down. Pop out. Two to go.
2005-09-29 19:25:58
373.   Cliff Corcoran
One pitch, one out.

That bases loaded one-out situation in the fifth was where they really screwed up.

2005-09-29 19:26:01
374.   Zack
Graff fouls out, Damon up
2005-09-29 19:26:26
375.   Mattpat11
The Sox pen isnt very good to begin with. Them being battered doesn't change anything.

Damon hits a grounder, but of course Hinske sucks, so he singles

2005-09-29 19:26:29
376.   Stormer Sports
Damn you Damon.
2005-09-29 19:26:34
377.   mikeplugh
Ouch. C'mon. Turn two. No Ortiz with runners on.
2005-09-29 19:27:07
378.   Cliff Corcoran
Too little too late, singledd.

Damon single.

2005-09-29 19:27:10
379.   Zack
And Damon singles, meaning barring a dp, ortiz will come up with a runner most likely in scoring position, will get a hit, and will cement his "clutch" status and the mvp. (Clearly I am a doomsayer)
2005-09-29 19:27:34
380.   Mattpat11
Come on Batista, just get the DP.
2005-09-29 19:27:43
381.   yankz
Please, if you have to lose, don't let it be via a Fat Ass papi walk off job.
2005-09-29 19:27:50
382.   Stormer Sports
This weekend could very well come down to whose pitching staff screws up the least. It may rest with Moose, I sure hope he's ready. Any word on a back-up plan for Moose?
2005-09-29 19:28:08
383.   mikeplugh
Bloody hell. Walk him and turn two on Rent-a-wreck.
2005-09-29 19:28:19
384.   Cliff Corcoran
Runners on doesn't matter, one run wins it for the Sox, no margin for error for the Jays pitchers. Damon steals, 3-0 on Renteria. Badness.
2005-09-29 19:28:19
385.   Mattpat11
Damon steals.

Game is basically over.

Fuck you Vinne Chulk.

2005-09-29 19:28:22
386.   Stormer Sports
That could be the game right there.
2005-09-29 19:28:23
387.   Zack
Damon steals second (no surprise) and batista can't throw strikes (also no surprise)
2005-09-29 19:28:24
388.   watziznehm2
There goes the game.. Batista is an idiot.
2005-09-29 19:28:46
389.   Zack
Edgar walks, oritz up with two on, anyone wanna place bets?
2005-09-29 19:29:00
390.   atc
I wouldn't mind Chacon on 3 days rest
2005-09-29 19:29:09
391.   Mattpat11
Fat Papi up.

Game over

2005-09-29 19:29:19
392.   mikeplugh
If Papi wins it in the bottom of the 9th he may get the MVP. Bastard.
2005-09-29 19:29:26
393.   Stormer Sports
Well, I'll take the Jay's infield here!
2005-09-29 19:29:51
394.   Zack
I still don't understand how Ortiz always manages to come up in the 9th inning. Seriously, look back over their games. Every game hes up in the 9th, its amazing
2005-09-29 19:29:59
395.   Mattpat11
No seriously, what the fuck kind of closer has a 4 ERA?
2005-09-29 19:30:12
396.   Stormer Sports
Ground ball! Ground ball! I command you!
2005-09-29 19:30:44
397.   Zack
Ortiz has a .333 lifetime average vs. Batista
2005-09-29 19:30:49
398.   mikeplugh
Okay keep cool Batista.
2005-09-29 19:31:08
399.   Stormer Sports
There's 2, do I hear 3?
2005-09-29 19:31:24
400.   tocho
A DP by Ortiz would be great. just to shut everybody up
Show/Hide Comments 401-450
2005-09-29 19:31:40
401.   Mattpat11
I thought this bullpen was supposed to be good?
2005-09-29 19:32:16
402.   Stormer Sports
Didn't he see World Series time? He should handle this pressure.
2005-09-29 19:32:20
403.   Cliff Corcoran
Zack, that's the function of batting order, think about Jeter and his 9th inning ABs. More OBP in the bottom of the order and it's Sheff that's up in the 9th in those situations.

Full count. Need to double Ortiz up here.

2005-09-29 19:32:48
404.   atc
I thought that was a double play off the bat
2005-09-29 19:32:50
405.   yankz
Oh, fuck.
2005-09-29 19:32:53
406.   Mattpat11
I cant believe this. I really fucking cant.

Fuck you Vinnie Chulk.

Fuck you Miguel Batista

2005-09-29 19:33:19
407.   Stormer Sports
Fuck me! God Damn, the legend lives on. Damn!
2005-09-29 19:33:46
408.   Cliff Corcoran
Oh well. Sox still need three wins this weekend. Yanks just two.
2005-09-29 19:34:18
409.   KYK
Fuck!
2005-09-29 19:34:21
410.   BxSparksNYC
Batista was shook. Will never be ez. If they start (as I'm sure they will) chant MVP this weekend I think I'll puke.
2005-09-29 19:34:28
411.   Zack
Well, another game tied winning hit for Ortiz, and I don't care if you don't believe in momentum, the Sox have it now. Notice of course, that it was another game tied hit, not that it matters

Cliff-I know that thats the case, its just crazy how it works, no? I mean, every freaking 9th inning!

2005-09-29 19:34:33
412.   mikeplugh
Fucker. Whatever.
2005-09-29 19:35:13
413.   tocho
Big Fat, ugly, but unfortunately competent papi delivers... again.

It was too good to be true.

I don't blame Chulk, I blame the stupid lazy manager for not replacing him.

Anyway see you all tomorrow to continue to suffer!!

2005-09-29 19:35:34
414.   yankz
Fuck the Jays. I know we shouldn't have expected much from them, but they blew this game with their pen and leaving runners on. FUCK. Ah well, avoid the sweep and we get Chacon in the tiebreaker. Has Boston even seen the stud yet?
2005-09-29 19:35:36
415.   Cliff Corcoran
Yeah, Ortiz homered to tie it and singled to win it. It's infuriating and impressive at the same time. It's not all his doing, of course, he didn't make Damon single and steal second, nor could he control when he'd bat, but it's still . . . infurssive?
2005-09-29 19:35:44
416.   dtrain
goddammit.
2005-09-29 19:36:44
417.   Cliff Corcoran
Yankz, Boston beat Chacon easily in the Schilling game on FOX a few weeks back.
2005-09-29 19:38:38
418.   Zack
Why is it that a game like that gets more attention and "builds momentum" more than a game like the Yanks won, where they beat up easily on the opponent and coasted to victory. I know I am the one saying the Sox get the momentum, but thats how it feels, no? A team comes from behind, doesn't matter how shitty they played or the fact that they should have won easily in the first place, at home, but if they come from behind and win it in the 9th, its dramatic and gives them a shot in the arm. Especially that 9th inning stuff.

Here's to hoping the Yanks come out geared to win and not terrified they way they often looked the last two years in Fenway...

2005-09-29 19:38:46
419.   yankz
Ah, ouch.
2005-09-29 19:38:47
420.   Cliff Corcoran
Oh, and re: an earlier question, Vernon Wells is signed through 2007.
2005-09-29 19:39:11
421.   Max
Sox win pretty much saved their chance at the playoffs, because even if we pull it off this weekend, they have a reasonable shot at the wild card. I doubt Cleveland sweeps, even with the WS celebrating and setting their rotation.

Which likely means Ortiz gets the you-know-what award. I still like our chances with a rested Gor-Mo, but today only reinforced how scary it will be if one of our starters (hello, Mike Mussina) can't make it past the 6th inning.

2005-09-29 19:39:28
422.   BxSparksNYC
Bottom line. As close was the race is for the division and for MVP. Everything will come down to this weekend. All (and I mean ALL) eyes will be on Yanks v. Sox and Ortiz v. ARod. I really don't think I can take it, especially if it come down to Sunday. Seeing Moose come out give me the creeps. (All most deja va seeing K. Brown for game 7). Ugggh. Let's think positive that we'll not need Sunday. Please. Please. Please....
2005-09-29 19:40:33
423.   Cliff Corcoran
Zack, I think the biggest bit of momentum is the Yanks 5-2 record against the Sox in their last two series and that one game lead in the division.
2005-09-29 19:42:33
424.   Jen
Um, so is that red shirt Sierra's wearing during the post-game part of some sort of hazing ritual?
2005-09-29 19:43:03
425.   tocho
Yeah, I will probably skip Sunday's game if its a must-win situation. If the Yanks win, I don't mind finding out later, but if they lose against the fat bastard Schilling I will not stand that sight again.
2005-09-29 19:46:30
426.   Zack
So going into the weekend, the sox have a fully rested Timlin, Bradford, Harville, and Gonzalez, a partially rested Dinardo and Delcarmen, and a spent Myers and Papelbon.

The Yanks have a fully rested Mendoze and Embree (whoppie), a partially rested DePaula, Franklin, Lieter, F-Rod, and (most importantly) Rivera, and a partially (minus) rested Gordon, sturtze, and Proctor.

Soooo, whos in better shape. What is clear is that both BP's suck, and not having Papelbon might be big tommorow. Timlin is well rested and we usually don't hit him.

Wells and Wang tomorrow hinges on Wang. If he gives up a few runs early, I would say we are in trouble. Wells tends to get hit early and settle down, so we need to jump out immediatly.

Saturday we have no chance, Unit or no. Wake just dominates us.

And Sunday, well, Schill will step up, this is what he gets off on.

So basically, we need tommorow. if we win tommorow, we aren't in too bad shape. But if we lose, well then we have to win the next two with odds against us, bad bad bad. Wang is huge tomorrow...

2005-09-29 19:47:54
427.   singledd
All in all it has been a simply amazing year.
Remember 11-17? We are 83-48 since then, a .633 winning pct.

Like then Braves, somehow we are always there. It will be a very, VERY tense weekend.
Friday's game sets the tone. We will need to be patient against Wells, and not make easy outs.

2005-09-29 19:47:57
428.   Mattpat11
We need to win tomorrow and Saturday. I dont want to be going up against the Fat Unit with the season on the line.
2005-09-29 19:50:33
429.   Max
What Cliff said. I like the way we match up against the Sox lately. However, there's a lot more pressure on us to win the first two games than people realize.

If we're in a position where we have to win Sunday or in a one game playoff for the division, we have Mussina and Chacon, and I wouldn't blame the Sox if they liked their chances against those two pitchers.

The good news (sort of) is that the Yankees could look at Schilling and Clement/Arroyo and say they like their odds against those pitchers as well. I still would rather see Randy close it out Saturday...can't deal with the heartburn otherwise.

2005-09-29 19:51:40
430.   BklynBomber
Hey, the Jays helped us go 1-up into this weekend. They did their part. Unless you want to bring up "our part" i.e., the sweep by KC, Brown, Wright, Pavano and those two blown leads to the Rays, we wouldn't be in this situation... but I digress.

Whatever one thinks will happen in Beantown probably won't. Just stock up on your food and provisions for the weekend, be it whiskey or water (or both), and just prepare for the unexpected. Probably not a bad idea to stock up for a Monday game, either, just in case.

And as Alex often says "Keep the faith". I know I will...

2005-09-29 19:58:31
431.   BklynBomber
#427 singledd — I ripped out the standings page from the newspaper the day we were 11-19 and still have it. I think we reeled off eight or nine wins in a row right after that, but kept the page hoping that was the low point and I could look at it and smile in September. So far, so good ;-)
2005-09-29 20:05:01
432.   Zack
"As he rounded first, Ortiz raised both arms to the sky and was mobbed by teammates. The crowd chanted "MVP! MVP!"

From ESPN's summary...

Tomorrow is going to take forever to get over with and get on towards night. Even here on the west coast where that means 4:00pm, its gonna be real hard to concentrate

2005-09-29 20:13:29
433.   atc
Everyone rest up....all hell is about to break loose.
2005-09-29 20:17:18
434.   yankz
This is why the average fan is such an idiot. Clearly, Ortiz's RBI was dramatic. But A-Rod has a ton of RBIs that put his team up, they just came earlier in the came. Each run is worth the same. But simpletons will vote on what ESPN tells them is more valuable.
2005-09-29 20:17:42
435.   yankz
earlier in the game*
2005-09-29 20:33:01
436.   marc
this was a big game for the yankees. Not only did we win but what briefly looked like it would be damaging to gormo turned into a great escape with Gordon only throwing 4 pitches and Mo never used. Proctor came up big in the 9th not that that would make me trust him. We have only one game over Cleveland and Boston so if we get swept the year's probably over. If we lose 2/3 then we could be in a three way tie again. So a play off for the division and the loser if tied with Cleveland at that point would have a play off to be the WC. I think we really want to win 2/3 and let Boston worry about where they are with Cleveland. Am I confused here or is that the way it is?
2005-09-29 20:56:25
437.   Yanks in NH
Lets just sweep and be done with them already!
2005-09-30 04:28:41
438.   randym77
Friday afternoon, the longest part of the week, is going to be even longer today.

I think the MVP contest is going to be settled head-to-head, this weekend. Bring 'em on!

2005-09-30 04:50:48
439.   mikeplugh
Will someone please check this. Here are the Yankee/Red Sox playoff permutations:

Yankees (3-0) Win AL East
Red Sox (0-3)
Cleveland (1-2) Wild Card; Sox Out
Cleveland (0-3) Sox/Tribe playoff

Yankees (2-1) Win AL East
Red Sox (1-2)
Cleveland (2-1) Wild Card; Sox Out
Cleveland (1-2) Sox/Tribe playoff
Cleveland (0-3) Sox Wild Card; Tribe Out

Yankees (1-2)
Red Sox (2-1)
Cleveland (3-0) Wild Card; Sox/Yanks playoff
Cleveland (2-1) Sox/Yanks playoff; loser/Tribe playoff
Cleveland (1-2) Yanks AL East; Sox WC; Tribe Out

Yankees (0-3)
Red Sox (3-0) AL East Champs
Cleveland (2-1) Wild Card; Yanks Out
Cleveland (1-2) Yanks/Tribe playoff
Cleveland (0-3) Yanks Wild Card; Tribe Out

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