Masur's Musings

What's going on?

2011-12-19T17:37:00.000-08:00

Well, well, well, it certainly has been a long time, but I felt compelled to update the blog, so here goes. I'm going to try, I repeat, TRY to keep a better handle on this thing as we move forward. I've been asked by a few folks on Facebook and Twitter these days and recently about how much they liked the blog in the last few years, so I figure, why not, let's give it a go again and see what happens. Not sure what direction I'll take it, but I have some thoughts. Maybe I'll ask you folks, which way it should go?

The way I see it, I can...

Continue what I was doing, which was giving you my thoughts on the Padres, Toreros, Aztecs and Chargers on occasion, and letting you know where I stand on some of the moves and games.

Use the blog as a travelers guide to the places we get to visit during my travels with the various teams I work with.

Or just wing it! Let me know what you think.

Recent Happenings...

Back with the Padres...
Not sure if you saw it or not, but I am going to be back with the Padres for the upcoming season. I have truly enjoyed my now 5 seasons (wow how time flies), and look forward to number 6, which is just around the corner.

Finally!!
Kudos to the Hall of Fame for FINALLY getting it right with my dear friend Ron Santo. He's been elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame after a stellar playing and broadcasting career. It hurts a little bit, because Ron passed away last December, and he deserved the chance to speak on stage in Cooperstown. I know his family is very excited, as I spoke to his son Jeff (producer of the film "This Old Cub") a few weeks ago to congratulate him and the rest of the crew. Ron's wife Vicki will deliver his induction speech on July 22, 2012 in New York. I'm hoping to be on hand to witness the occasion. Ron was more than a former co-worker to me, he became like a member of my extended family and I miss him every day. If you haven't gotten the chance to see Jeff Santo's film, I highly recommend it. Just follow this link for more information on This Old Cub.

Latos to Cincinnati...
Many of you out there have strong opinions on the Mat Latos trade the other day as I've read and heard the last few days. My thought is this. If you can deal one player and make your team deeper, and better, you need to do it. Mat can certainly pitch, there is no doubt in my mind about that, but so can Edinson Volquez. He won 17 games in his first full season of 2008 and should benefit from pitching at Petco Park. I'm of the opinion that Darren Balsley and Buddy Black know what they are doing, and have certainly helped a few pitchers over the years re-discover what they were or helped them to get better than they've ever been. Yonder Alonso is an intriguing addition, from everything I hear and have read, this guy is a hitter. Maybe not a typical slugging first baseman, but a gap type hitter, which will play well at Petco. I don't know enough about the minor leaguers to comment intelligently so I'll leave it at that. Sometimes you have to deal away talent to get talent back. I don't think Josh Byrnes is done dealing either, so let's wait and see what comes next before judging, good or bad, what the off season moves are.

Alright, that's all I've got time for tonight, want to watch a little Monday Night Football, but I guess there's a power outage in Candlestick Park! Ugh.

Happy Holidays everyone, and I look forward to hearing from you out there!

Andy

Bud Black Top Dog In The NL...

2010-11-17T20:30:00.000-08:00

Just like this past Padres season, it came down to the wire, and in the end, Bud Black prevailed over Dusty Baker, and is the NL Manager of the Year in 2010.

Deserving? You bet. To me, and admittedly I'm a bit biased, it was a no brainer. I didn't however think that the BBWA would get it right. I figured it would go to the sentimental favorite, Bobby Cox, but in the end the writers did the right thing and gave the nod to our own skipper.

The case is a simple one. He did the best job of managing a baseball team this season. Going through the peaks and valleys of the 162 game schedule, Black, guided his team to a 90 win season, 15 more wins than the previous year. That was the best win differential in MLB.

Did anybody expect this? No. Did anybody figure out how to get the most of all his players, every single game? No. Case closed. Vegas set the Padres win line at 71.5 before the season, and as GM Jed Hoyer pointed out today in a conference call, "They don't build those casinos by losing money. For me, [Black] was a clear choice."

Congratulations Buddy, on a well deserved honor. It has been my privilege to work with him every game for the last four seasons, and I really enjoy talking baseball and other things with him all the time. What you see is what you get with Bud Black, one of the good guys in the game of baseball.

I'm Baaaack...

Many of you have sent me Facebook and Twitter messages wondering about the status of my blog and after a long hiatus, I've decided to bring back Masur's Musings. I can't guarantee it will be updated every day, or even every week, but I will certainly do my best to keep it relatively current. I'm just happy that there were so many people that actually read my blog, I had no idea really, and I do appreciate the following.

Random Musings...

- What a win for the San Diego State Aztecs men's basketball team the other night at Gonzaga. I've broadcast a few games at the "Kennel" and I've never heard the place as quiet as I did late in the game yesterday. These Aztecs are for real, and will be a force to be reckoned with when conference play begins.

- The USD Toreros are off to a 1-1 start, coming off a loss at Stanford, Monday night. This is a young team that Bill Grier has, 2 seniors, 2 juniors and 11 sophomores/freshman. Hopefully the non-conference season, will get this inexperienced group ready for WCC play. It's a great bunch of kids, and they are hard not to root for.

- By the way, in case you didn't hear, the Toreros games are on XTRA Sports 1360 this season. I'm back for my fourth season of play-by-play and couldn't be happier. I'll be away for the next couple of games to attend a good friend's wedding, so Ben Higgins will step in and handle the games, Friday night and Sunday afternoon at the JCP.

Alright, that's a wrap. Chat soon.

Hall Of Fame, what a shame....

2010-01-07T12:17:00.000-08:00

Andre Dawson is the only player heading into the Hall of Fame in the class of 2010. I do believe that he is a deserving recipient of enshrinement. I won't get into all the debate about the numbers, but lets just say, one of three players ever, with 400 or more homers and 300 or more stolen bases. 1987 NL MVP for a LAST PLACE team. 49 homers that year. Congratulations Hawk on a long overdue honor.

He wasn't the only guy that should have gotten in this time around. Why isn't Bert Blyleven in the Hall? Why didn't Roberto Alomar get in on the first ballot? Why is San Diego native, Alan Trammell not even receiving serious consideration? Then there's Barry Larkin, and Edgar Martinez. Not to mention Lee Smith. The answer, well there are many.

First, some of the living members of the Hall of Fame that get a chance to vote, don't take the responsibility seriously. Numerous members either turn in incomplete or blank ballots. This is inexcusable. If you don't want to vote, don't and then the Hall should adjust the percentage needed to get into the exclusive club.

That leads me to my next point. Some living members of the Hall, feel a sense of elitism. Nobody should be allowed to join their club on the first ballot. Nobody. They somehow feel that because they are in, it should be a chore for others to get in. That's just great. There are certainly no-brainers when it comes to first ballot enshrinement, Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken each come to mind, but if a guy is worthy and deserving based on numbers, VOTE HIM IN. I don't get this.

Roberto Alomar has better offensive numbers than Ryne Sandberg, and the "great" Joe Morgan. But he's on the outside looking in, just because he wasn't deemed a "first ballot" guy. Incredible. I do know that at least one member of the Hall of Fame takes his voting responsibility seriously. Mr. Padre studies players numbers, and accounts for the era that the guy played in and other factors. It doesn't take him long, but at least he puts thought into it. Then again should anybody be surprised by this?

For some reason, SOME members of the BBWA (baseball writers association) feel the need to become elitist in their thinking and voting. Why? I recall one knucklehead in Chicago, didn't vote for Gwynn or Ripken, because he didn't think anybody should be a unanimous choice for election, so he would make sure it didn't happen. Great. You are an idiot. Nice to see he broke Journalism rule #1, don't become part of the story. This is the problem. Something needs to be done. Change the system. This one isn't working. To prove my point, somebody even gave David Segui a vote. Come on.

I personally like the way the NFL does it. A committee discusses a list of eligible candidates, whittles it down to a manageable number, then it's an open debate. Numbers are "broken down" and talked about. Candidates merits are outlined by people that saw these guys play, and then it's vote time. You don't see the NFL enshrine just one player per ballot do you? Deserving players get in, those that don't still may be deserving, but have to wait their turn. It's a better process than leaving it completely up to ignorant former players with agendas. Seriously.

Random Musings...
Heading out of town today with USD hoops, as the WCC season begins with two games this weekend. Friday night we'll be at Santa Clara, with an 8:30 tip time on XX1090, and then Sunday at San Francisco for a 5pm tip, on XX1090 and San Diego 1700. Hope you'll join me.

Congratulations to Steve Fisher and the SDSU Aztecs on a great performance the other night, in upsetting New Mexico. The Aztecs are for real. I could see them starting to play better team basketball in the second half of the game at the Jenny Craig last month. The MWC is going to be a fun conference to watch this year. The Aztecs have a great shot at post season play this season. Hope they keep it up. It's great for San Diego basketball!

Oh, yeah, who's up for watching the BCS (one letter too many) National Championship game tonight? Wonder how many would like to see Boise State play the winner? I would. My pick tonight is Alabama over Texas and I hope it's close. Yawwwwwwn. Bowl games on January 7? What happened to the tradition of the bowl season wrapping up New Years Day or that weekend? Cha-ching.

That's it for now...more to come later! Have a great day and a great weekend!

Andy

Happy New Year...

2010-01-05T20:42:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know, it's been a while, but I'm back. Happy New Year everybody!

I've been traveling the country the last few weeks visiting friends and family for the Holidays, and now it's time to write again! So here goes...

No News Is Good News?
Not much has changed since my last post in San Diego Padres land. It's been quiet at Petco Park, but I think that will change shortly. GM Jed Hoyer has been keeping a watchful eye on what other teams are doing, trying to figure out who may become expendable as a result. This much is true, he knows there are still holes to fill and will start that process soon.

As it looks now, Adrian Gonzalez will start the year with the Padres, but will he be here come August? I think A-Gonz's trade value will increase as his numbers do, and as the July 31 trade deadline arrives during the season. Teams are much more likely to over pay for players if they feel that guy will put them over the top and push that team to the playoffs.

It also seems to me that Kevin Kouzmanoff will be here when the season starts as well. To me that's great news. Kouz has been more than dependable both in the field and at the plate (save the first two months!) in his time in Southern California.

The most immediate move will likely be a back up catcher. Nick Hundley is improving season to season, but I know that the organization would like to have a veteran in there, to continue to bring the young backstop along. Brad Ausmus is a name you hear a lot about. The Padres tried to get him a year ago, but decided instead, after Ausmus signed with the Dodgers, to sign Henry Blanco. Ausmus has the same reputation throughout the league as Blanco, for being a great clubhouse guy and a veteran not afraid to help a youngster along. Ausmus would also be good for the young pitching staff.

Eyes are still open for a right handed hitting center fielder to compliment Tony Gwynn Jr. This could be a little more costly a position to fill than the catcher's spot. Here are a few names to consider: Reed Johnson, ex of the Chicago Cubs. A great defender and at age 33 still has something left in the tank. Another name to consider is that of Jerry Hairston Jr. I was chatting with Corey Brock of mlb.com about Hairston Jr. We both agreed that he'd be a great influence in the clubhouse, like his brother Scott was. He's also a player that gives you a lot of versatility. He can play the outfield, shortstop and second base. Jerry Jr is a right handed hitter with a little pop and he has some speed too, which fits into what the Padres are looking for. Hairston is 34. Food for thought.

I'm sure that Hoyer would like to add another veteran arm to the rotation as well. Makes sense, with some youth in the starting five, it's always nice to have that experienced arm to count on once in a while.

Stay tuned, the hot stove should be getting a bit warmer in the next week or so for the Padres.

Big Unit hangs it up...
Randy Johnson is calling it a career. The "Big Unit" hangs em up after a 22 year career with several teams. He started with the Expos, but came to become a pitcher, with the Seattle Mariners. Johnson winds up his career with 303 wins, and finishes up second on baseball's all time strike out list, with 4,875 punch outs, only behind Nolan Ryan. Johnson was the co-mvp of the 2001 World Series with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He also owns 2 no hitters, including a perfect game, which he threw in 2004. Might he be the final pitcher to ever reach the magic 300 win number? Could be.

Happy Holliday in St. Louis...
So Matt Holliday is going to stay in St Louis after all for 7 years and $120 million. Shocking. Not. Where else was he really going to go? My question is this...the Cardinals are considered a mid-market team, and now has two, $100 million players, how? Especially considering, Albert Pujols is entering the final year of his 7 year, $100 million dollar deal. Good luck Cardinals. Enjoy this year.

Mourning Markas...
I woke today to some terrible news, that of the untimely passing of Angels play-by-play man Rory Markas. He was only 54, and died of an apparent heart attack. He was with the Angels the last 8 seasons, and was also the voice of USC Trojans basketball. I didn't know Rory very well, but he would always have a "hello" or a "how you doing?" when the Padres and Angels would play in Spring Training or during the season. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and all of those in the Angels family, who have had a rough year, with the passing of Preston Gomez, Nick Adenhart and now Markas. He will be missed.

NFL Playoffs...the Weekend of Rematch...
How strange is that? 3 of the Week 17 match ups will happen again, in the first round of the playoffs. In the AFC, the Jets who destroyed the Bengals Sunday night, will meet again, but this time with something on the line for both teams and in Cincinnati. My pick, Cincinnati. Also in the AFC, Baltimore visits New England. Even without Wes Welker, I think the Patriots will be able to get it done and advance this weekend. Of course that would mean that the Chargers would host the Patriots and make it 12 in a row after dispatching of "The Hoodie" and "Tom Terrific". In the NFC, it's an all rematch slate. The Packers face the Cardinals in Arizona. I think (and this kills me as a Bears fan) the Packers will advance and then beat the highly over rated New Orleans Saints. Dallas hosts Philadelphia again, and I see the same result happening in this one, Cowboys over Eagles in Jerryworld. I'll keep an eye on the games, and have more after the weekend.

Alright, that will do it for now. My New Year's resolution is to keep this blog a bit more updated. Hope I can stick to it!!!

Andy

Blockbuster Deal Done...

2009-12-16T13:05:00.000-08:00

WOW! This is what I call a blockbuster deal. The 4 team deal is complete, and the Phillies acquire a former Cy Young winner in Roy Halladay, for another former Cy Young winner, Cliff Lee. Here's the particulars...

Toronto sent Halladay and $6 million to the Phillies for three minor leaguers: catcher Travis d'Arnaud, right-hander Kyle Drabek and outfielder Michael Taylor.

Philadelphia dealt Lee to Seattle for three prospects: right-hander Phillippe Aumont, outfielder Tyson Gillies and right-hander Juan Ramirez.

Toronto flipped Taylor to the Athletics for third baseman Brett Wallace.

It's difficult enough to make a trade between two teams, let alone involving 4 in a blockbuster. Interesting to see now what the Mariners do with Lee. He will make some serious money this year and is a free agent at the end of the season. The Phillies to me, get one of the more under the radar (pitching in Canada will do that for you) pitchers and one of the best pitchers in all of baseball. They did give up a lot to get him, but Kyle Drabek is a prospect. He's never pitched in the big leagues. Sometimes you have to sacrifice a little of tomorrow to compete today.

Lackey, Cameron in Boston, will Adrian Gonzalez join them?
There seems to be a lot of talk now about the moves being made in Boston. Are they a set up for something bigger involving the Padres and Adrian Gonzalez? The case can certainly be made. Mike Cameron is not a left fielder. Plus asking a CF to play LF in Fenway Park is asking him to do something. It's a tricky position with the Green Monster right behind you, and close to the plate. The moves made by acquiring John Lackey (free agent, LAA) and Cameron, certainly frees up some other names on the Boston roster to be dealt. Jacoby Ellsbury and Clay Buchholz can certainly be had, but if the Padres are going to make a deal for a young power hitter like Gonzalez, you need to get hard throwing Daniel Bard as well. Some of the particulars may still be unclear. Several reports indicate that the Red Sox may also throw in a catcher they acquire from the Rangers, in the Mike Lowell proposal, but that hasn't officially happened yet. As indicated previously, if the Padres are going to trade Gonzalez, it's going to have to be in a deal that makes baseball sense. A king's ransom will be required, and not just prospects like in the Jake Peavy deal last July. The team will want Major League ready talent to fill immediate needs and if the names being reported are true, these are players that can contribute right away. This one is worth watching. (Vote on whether or not Adrian will start the season with the Padres or not on this blog)

MLB to do away with the DH?
Commissioner Bud Selig has formed his own version of a "competition committee", much like the NFL. The 14 members include 4 managers, 4 current or former GM's, 4 ownership reps, Hall of Fame player Frank Robinson, and noted columnist George Will. The "advisory" committee will analyze ways of improving Major League baseball on the field. Their first meeting will be this January in the Phoenix area.

One hot button issue is the use of the DH. This debate could become a little more than that if several on the committee get their way. The American League has used the Designated Hitter for the last 37 seasons, and the NL has never seriously considered adopting it. The DH has been good for the players, prolonging the career of several popular hitters, like Frank Thomas, Jim Thome, Edgar Martinez, Dave Winfield, and Paul Molitor just to name a few. But to me, it's a joke. Why should one league have it and the other not have it or not even want it? Can you imagine if the NFL decided that a 12th player could be used in AFC games and not NFC games? Or if the NBA decided that a shot behind the arc counted for 4 points in a Western Conference game and not an Eastern Conference game? Get rid of it. Make the game uniform. I don't think that's the popular thought of the players, but from reading up on it, many in management both on and off the field, wouldn't mind seeing the DH go the way of baseball in Montreal. Gone. (tell me your thoughts, there is a poll on this blog getting your vote on whether to keep the DH or launch it)

More later....

Andy

Random Sunday Musings...

2009-12-13T22:12:00.000-08:00

Lots of thoughts running through my head tonight, from baseball to basketball to hockey, football and travel...

NFL...
Let's start with football if you don't mind. I was thankfully flying when my hometown Bears were losing to the hated Green Bay Packers, on another great day for Jay Cutler (Charger fans warned me), and head coach Lovie Smith. Ugh, who calls a time out with the other team facing a 4th and short, to allow THEM to get their stuff together, and get a crucial first down? The answer: LOVIE. There should be a "help wanted" sign outside Soldier Field at the end of this year.

Now to my adopted hometown team, the Chargers. Got home in time to watch the entire game on TV, and again I was totally impressed. I said it when this blog first started, that I would take Phillip Rivers as my QB any day of the week and twice on Sunday's. Let me amend that to 3 times on Sunday's. I'm amazed at his arm strength, and his ability to thread the needle on his long distance passing. He plays to the strength of the offense as well, tall receivers, that can go up and get it. Good combination. Throw in a sure fire hall of fame running back who is hitting stride, and a hall of fame caliber tight end, is there anything this offense can't do?

Against the Cowboys, give some props to Ron Rivera's defensive unit. Pressure on Tony Romo, and a huge goal line stand really set the tone for the entire game. Tim Dobbins, Brandon Siler, Ian Scott, and Luis Castillo had a big hand in stopping Marion Barber at the goal line to swing the momentum. Great win by the Chargers who win for the 8th straight time, and 16th straight time in December. Just think, if the Chargers weren't like slow starter Kevin Kouzmanoff, think where they might be now?

SAN DIEGO HOOPS...
It's college hoops time now. Was in Boise, Idaho with the Toreros this weekend, and USD came away with a huge victory, on the road 59-56 over the Broncos. This team needed this win, and badly. The victory snapped that 5 game losing skid, and more importantly gets the Toreros back on track for next weekend's games in Las Vegas, against Southern Illinois (Saturday 4pm on San Diego 1700) and South Florida (Sunday at 1:45pm on XX1090). Roberto Mafra played perhaps his best game with the school, scoring his first career double, double, with 14 points and 12 rebounds in the win. I was impressed that the team was able to rally from a lackluster first half, to slow the tempo, work the ball around, play great defense and sound team basketball. Huge win indeed.

SDSU got themselves a big win this weekend as well a home win over Arizona. I like what I see from Steve Fisher's bunch. They impressed me with their athleticism and length. They can rush it up the floor, and really shoot it well. If they start coming together as a team, look out Mountain West Conference.

MLB/PADRES...
Glad to hear that the Padres and Kevin Correia were able to come to terms on a deal. It would really have been a shame for him to be pitching somewhere else. Not that it still can't happen in a 'sign and trade' scenario, but it appears that Correia will be in Buddy Black's rotation for 2010. That's one less hole to fill this off season. Correia won 12 games last year, including a complete game shut out at Arizona in September.

The team non-tendered Mark Worrell, who never pitched in a big league game for the Padres. He was supposed to be the main ingredient in the Khalil Greene trade, but underwent "Tommy John" surgery in March and was lost for the season. Of course the "player to be named later" in that trade proved his worth, Luke Gregerson struck out 93 hitters this season as a mainstay in the bullpen for the Padres.

NHL...
Alright, I know a lot of folks in San Diego, have no interest in the NHL, but some do and this is for them. I grew up around the NHL, in an original six city, going to Blackhawks games with my dad at the old Chicago Stadium and more recently with my brother at the United Center. I'm jacked about the Hawks this year. I watched their game against Tampa Bay tonight on the NHL Center Ice Package (I actually made the purchase) and again was impressed. Their penalty killing and power play units were dominant again tonight. Back up goalie Antti Niemi recorded his 3rd shutout in 7 starts this season, while Marian Hossa, Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews (pronounced Taves) and Ben Eager scored the goals. Hockey is an awesome sport to watch in HD, or in person. With the Kings and Ducks playing just up the road, go check out a game, you won't be sorry.

Travels...
Fresh off my trip to Boise, Idaho with the USD Toreros, I've discovered what a hassle airline travel has become. High prices, no meals, no extras and just a lot of attitude. It's bad enough that most airlines have decided it's a good idea to charge to check in baggage ($40 bucks for two bags on Alaska Airlines), but what's with the attitude? The person checking in my radio equipment today, figured that since it wasn't her bag, she could just chuck it onto the conveyor belt. What's up with that? Seriously? Do you have to THROW it on the belt? Do you have NO regard for OTHER people's stuff? Mine wasn't the only bag that received this treatment. Come on people you are BETTER than that!

Even flight attendants are getting less and less friendly. They have little patience for people, getting on the plane or getting off the plane. Fake it. At least make me think that you really appreciate my business. Oh well. What can you do?

Alright that's it, I hope you had a great weekend, and have a great week ahead. Happy Hanukkah to all those celebrating and the best to all this holiday season! More later...

Andy

I'm Back...

2009-12-09T11:34:00.000-08:00

Sorry all, it's been a hectic few weeks in my world, and has not allowed me much time to update the blog here! Hope you understand. Let's get right to it...

All has been quiet at the Winter Meetings to this point for the Padres, as many of you thought it would be. Not surprising is the fact that GM Jed Hoyer has been getting "action" on several of his players, including Heath Bell and Kevin Kouzmanoff. At first glance it doesn't seem like Kouz will be going to the Giants. The names that were floated, Fred Lewis and Kevin Frandsen don't get my heart racing and apparently didn't get Hoyer's going either. We already have a better version of Lewis, in Tony Gwynn Jr., and I'm not certain that Frandsen would be a good enough fielder, or hitter to succeed in the utility role on the bench. Keep searching. Kouz attracted interest from up to 8 teams. As I pointed out on Darren Smith's show on XX1090 a week or so ago, the situation at 3rd is a bit crowded, especially with the emergence of Kyle Blanks in the outfield and at the plate. I guess as I mentioned it's a good problem to have. Chase Headley is a natural third baseman and it would seem that either he or Kouz will be moved to open up the slot for Blanks.

The Kevin Correia situation is worth watching. The Padres know that if it gets to arbitration, Correia is going to get a healthy raise from the 1.1 million he made after incentives last season. Hopefully they'll be able to agree with him before it gets to that point. I thought that Correia excelled in the starters role and provided a great lift to the team as a starter. He's still young and can contribute.

Heath Bell is another interesting situation. 42 saves in his first year as a closer, but also due a healthy raise in arbitration. The Padres have to figure out if they believe Bell has reached his "ceiling" or if there's still room to grow. I'm sure the team feels there are some internal candidates to replace Bell if he's dealt, like Mike Adams who is also arbitration eligible, Luke Gregerson and to some degree Edward Mujica.

Keep track of all the developments at the meetings in Indianapolis by following Corey Brock on Twitter @FollowThePadres, or at www.padres.com.

USD Back home tonight...
The USD Toreros return to the Jenny Craig Pavilion tonight, with another tough non-conference matchup facing New Mexico, coached by Steve Alford. The Lobos are a perfect 8-0 this year and feature a very experienced team, which beat the Toreros last year at the JCP 57-54. USD is trying to snap an ugly 4 game losing skid that started in the championship game of the Great Alaska Shootout. The Toreros have been struggling terribly from the floor, shooting around 35% over the skid, and scoring just 52 points a game. Brandon Johnson should return to the lineup tonight after missing Sunday's game at Fresno State as a result of a coaches decision. Hope you can make it out to the game tonight, but if not, I'll have the call for you starting at 6:45 on XX1090 and on the web at www.usdtoreros.com.

A family loss...
Sad news hit me yesterday, when my dad called from Chicago, to inform me that the family dog, Maxwell, a great Golden Retriever, had to be put to sleep. We had him for nearly 15 years and this friendly, warm animal, turned me into a dog lover. I didn't have a dog growing up due to allergies, so this was my first real pet. Max was rescued by my family from the Anti-Cruelty Society and given a great home, where he was treated like a king. Max was not doing well toward the end, having a lot of trouble walking, and fell a few times. He was developing cancer, and the vet agreed it was time. I'm really going to miss Max, and his wagging tail, it will certainly be strange to walk into my parent's house next time I'm in Chicago and not have him greet me. I know he's in a better place now, and not in any pain, but it doesn't make it any easier. Here's some pictures of him, when he first came to the Masur house...

That's all I have for you today...have a great day!

Andy

The Snow is Flying in Alaska!

2009-11-27T14:41:00.000-08:00

When it snows in Alaska, it SNOWS! Piling up at the rate of an inch an hour, its been non stop since about 8am this morning local time. How snowy is it? Well the valet guys at the hotel, weren't parking cars, they were doing something more productive with their time today as you'll see below.

So that's what we woke up to this morning. Pretty cool. The snow got so bad that Houston had to cancel it's morning practice. The High School they were supposed to shoot in, is up in the mountains and it snowed almost a foot on that peak. The Toreros however are going through their pre-game practice right now. The High School they are working out in, is about 15 minutes on a dry day from the hotel, today it took nearly 30 minutes.

So USD will face the Houston Cougars tonight, 7:30 local, 8:30 Pacific time, for the right to advance to Saturday's championship game of the Great Alaska Shootout. Houston scored 100 points in their game in a win over Oklahoma last night. They are a very athletic team, they don't turn it over, but they also don't play much defense. They scored 100 but gave up 93 to the Sooners. I'll have the call again tonight, from the Sullivan Arena, starting at 8:15pm PT, and the tip comes your way at 8:30pm PT, on XX1090, and usdtoreros.com. I hope you'll tune in!

Thanksgiving...

With having yesterday off, the Toreros had a great team Thanksgiving dinner at a local restaurant in Anchorage. We all were able to eat a great Turkey dinner with all the trimmings, including a delicious apple sausage stuffing, mashed potatoes and vegetables. It was a great evening and the players and staff really enjoyed being together on the holiday since we were all away from our families. Glad the schedule worked out that way and glad we took advantage of the time!

Hot Stove time soon...

With the Winter meetings only a few weeks away, teams are starting to finalize their plans heading into the gathering in Indianapolis. No real concrete information is coming out of Padres camp to this point, but they could be a player in trade talks. Judging from the informal poll on this blog, you are all as up in the air as I am about whether or not Adrian Gonzalez will be dealt or not. The yes' and no's were pretty even as of the time voting closed. I'll get a new poll up there shortly focusing on some other things.

Good links to keep an eye on for all the hot stove league news...

My buddy Corey Brock will be on hand for the meetings in Indy, and will be reporting as he always does for MLB.com, bringing in the latest on the Padres moves, or non moves. Find his stories on the team's official web site.

The guys over at MLBTraderumors.com do a great job in re-posting some of the latest rumors from around the country, and the site is certainly worth bookmarking and checking back on often.

On occasion I also check out Pro Sports Daily, they also reprint stories from reporters and columnists from around the country...worth a look...

I'll also reprint or at least link to some good stuff when the meetings get started as well.

Final thoughts today...

Read that the legendary PA voice of the New York Yankees, Bob Sheppard, is calling it a career. He's 99 years old, and has been in poor health for the last couple of years. He is still heard at Yankee Stadium, because Derek Jeter insists that they play the recorded intro from Sheppard before he bats every time. That's respect. Sheppard announced his first game in 1951, and in the lineup that day, batting 8th and playing second base, number 42, Jerry Coleman. It was a game between the Red Sox and Yankees. Mickey Mantle was also playing in his first game for the Bronx Bombers. Pretty cool.

Good call Gaslampball....

The guys at at Gaslampball.com pointed out on my Twitter account (@PadsCast) that the new picture I chose for the blog, was a little gray and ominous and after further review they were correct. Thanks guys for pointing that out. There is a new photo up and hopefully this one represents America's Finest City a little better. By the way, the photos that grace the heading of the blog and most of the other ones you see, are taken by me. I love photography and try to do the best job I can. I think I over-photoshopped the first one, and posted a new one!

Alright, that's it for now. Hope you'll tune in tonight for the Toreros and the Cougars at 8:30!

Andy

Hello from our 49th State...

2009-11-24T11:58:00.000-08:00

Greetings all, as I write from Anchorage, Alaska. I'm here with the USD Hoops team getting ready for the Great Alaska Shootout, which for me begins tomorrow night (first game v. Oklahoma, 10:45 on XX1090).

We landed last night to a mixture of freezing rain and snow, but had a mostly uneventful flight after our first leg, landed us in Seattle. I think we caught a break weather wise, landing in 35 degree temperatures, as opposed to 8 as had been forecast.

When the sun came up this morning, today it rose at 9:55am, I could get a sense of how beautiful a place this is. Low clouds, snow capped mountains and a regular suburban type feel to the houses and wide open spaces. I'll try to include some photos at some point, and I'll let you know where to view them.

Heading off to practice to watch the team prepare for tomorrow night's first game. Don't forget to stay up late with me, as I'll have the call starting with the Pre-Game show at 10:30pm, and then the game as the Toreros face the Oklahoma Sooners at 10:45pm on XX1090 and www.usdtoreros.com.

Padres news and notes...
All seems pretty quiet on the Padres front ahead of the baseball winter meetings in Indianapolis starting in a couple of weeks. Lots of rumors about teams interested in Adrian Gonzalez, and of course Jed Hoyer's former team the Boston Red Sox figure prominently in most of the talk. I'm still not completely convinced that Adrian will be dealt. It's sometimes a good idea, even for later in the season, to find out what teams are willing to offer at this point, and have that in mind when the trade deadline comes in July. I'll keep an eye on things and let you know what I hear.

Season ticket sales are up for the Padres, based on a few things, a 12 game improvement last year from the 2008 finish, and new lower prices. My buddy Corey Brock has an interesting story about a couple of season ticket holders and their thoughts...check it out by clicking here...

MVP...
Albert Pujols is the unanimous choice for NL MVP...who else could it really have been?

More later...

Andy

2009-11-22T00:54:00.001-08:00

Spring Training Schedule...

2009-11-19T22:32:00.000-08:00

Who's ready for Spring Training?? The Padres are, and the rest of MLB is as well. Earlier today the Padres March schedule was released, and you can access it by clicking here.

The first game is March 4, 2010 in the annual charity game against the Mariners in Peoria, AZ. In fact the first four games of the Spring are against Peoria Sports Complex companion Seattle. The Padres will play each team in the Cactus League twice, with the exception of the Oakland A's. The Padres and A's meet just once, and it is at the A's training facility in Phoenix. The Cactus League welcomes a new member this season, the Cincinnati Reds have joined the Indians in Goodyear for the 2010 season.

If you're looking for a weekend to head to Peoria to check out the Padres, there are only 2 Saturday home games, one on March 6 against the Mariners, and one on March 27 in a split squad game against the Reds. The Padres have a stretch of 3 straight at home, March 14-16, with games against the Indians, a night game against the Giants and then face the Angels. The Dodgers make their only Peoria visit that same week, March 19 at 7:05.

We'll break camp on March 31, 2010, then travel to Anaheim to face the Angels on April 1 and head to Lake Elsinore to face the Storm on April 2, which will wind up the Spring Training schedule. The Padres will hold a workout at PETCO Park April 3, and then travel back to Arizona, to get ready to open the 2010 season against the Diamondbacks at Chase Field, April 5.

Gearing up for Alaska...
Ok, as you probably know, I grew up in Chicago, and am pretty used to Winter weather, but even I'm a little wary of what I'm about to face in Alaska! I'll head there with the USD Toreros Monday for the Great Alaska Shootout. I've never been to our 49th state, but hear it's a beautiful place. Now to gear up, I went out and purchased a winter jacket, hat, scarf, gloves and thermal socks. I hope it snows, since I haven't seen a good snowstorm in a few years. There's something so peaceful about a steady snow once in a while. I know many of you readers have never actually seen it snow, trust me it's pretty cool unless you have to fly or drive in it. Different story there!

Now as far as the schedule in Alaska, join me for our first broadcast as the Toreros (2-1) face Oklahoma, Wednesday November 25. Air time, is 10:30pm, with the game tipping off at 10:45pm on XX1090 and www.usdtoreros.com. USD is off on Thanksgiving and will partake in a team Thanksgiving meal. Friday the Toreros face Houston, that game tips at 8:30pm on XX1090. The team will play a game against a team TBD (Washington State, Nicholls State or Alaska-Anchorage) either at 2pm, 4:30pm or 7pm on XX. I hope you'll be able to join me for one or all of the games as you enjoy your holiday with family and friends.

Have a great night!

Andy

No News Yet...

2009-11-15T11:39:00.000-08:00

So far, Adrian Gonzalez fans, the Gold Glove winning first baseman is still a member of the San Diego Padres. December 7-10 of this year, Indianapolis will be a buzz with baseball front office folks, agents, and maybe even a few players invading the Midwestern town.

It will be interesting to watch along with you to see what the Padres decide to do. New GM Jed Hoyer will undoubtedly receive many offers for his talented 40 home run guy, but he may hear some inquiries about a few other players as well. Here's my thoughts on who Mr. Hoyer may be asked about in Indianapolis:

1. Heath Bell, closer. Heath saved 42 games last year (in 48 opportunities) and stepped into a tough role in San Diego, replacing the great and future hall of famer, Trevor Hoffman. Bell is due a larger pay day in arbitration, which may not fit alongside what the Padres want to do this upcoming season. What also makes Bell attractive is he's under team control through 2011, so no free agency for a couple of seasons. The Padres have some internal candidates that could step into the 9th inning role, like Mike Adams, Ryan Webb, Luke Gregerson and maybe even Edward Mujica, though he projects more as a starter this upcoming season. Personally, I'd like to see the Padres hang on to Heath, but I understand if a move is made.

2. Chris Young, starter. CY had an injury plagued year, and had to be shut down with a shoulder injury. Young is emerging as a top of the rotation type of pitcher and is relatively inexpensive at around 6.2 million dollars. Young will more likely be a more popular player to other teams later in the summer, perhaps around the July 31 trade deadline, due to the uncertainty of his arm, and how he'll bounce back. But trust me, there will be opposing GM's asking about Young. My guess, is that Young stays a Padre through the season and that will be a good thing.

3. Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B. Kouz had one of his best overall seasons, since coming to the Padres from the Indians three seasons ago. Not only did he produce at the plate, he was a legitimate contender for the NL Gold Glove at third base this year. Kouz is still a young player, and again is a guy under team control and is only arbitration eligible, not a free agent. He has tremendous upside, and perhaps the Padres think that Chase Headley, is better suited to play third, to make him expendable. Realizing that with Kyle Blanks waiting to get an opportunity, if Adrian isn't dealt, one of the two, of Kouz or Chase could be dealt to open up left field for the rookie.

Ok as those seem pretty obvious choices, I realize that, just wanted to get my thoughts down on "paper" to let you know where I'm coming from. What about Hoyer's shopping list? What will he go to Indianapolis looking for? Here are my early thoughts...

1. Starting Pitcher. With the emergence of some of the young arms, (Clayton Richard, Wade LeBlanc, Tim Stauffer and Mujica) Hoyer may look for a veteran to help Young and Kevin Correia at the front of the rotation. There are some options via free agency, but a big money guy is unlikely. To be honest the free agent list in this category is not that impressive. Here's the list I looked at, courtesy of MLBTraderumors.com.

2. Catcher. Nick Hundley really improved both defensively and offensively this season. Unfortunately for him, the fastball by Chad Billingsley he took off his wrist cost Hundley about 2 months of the season. Henry Blanco proved to be a low cost, good option, as a back up, but he has filed for free agency. He could be re-signed. Not saying it's a top priority, but getting a good backup in the fold, could be something on Hoyer's list.

3. Outfielder. This one may not seem as obvious. No slight intended to Tony Gwynn Jr, but with a flood of young outfielders, Hoyer may choose to bring in a veteran outfielder to provide a little stability out there. Mike Cameron?

I'll certainly have more about this as the Winter Meetings approach. It's always fun to guess along at home!

Ok, that's it for today, I'm off to Stockton, CA with the USD Toreros (1-0), for tomorrow night's game at the University of the Pacific. The Toreros looked good in their season opener, a 77-64 win over Stanford at the JCP. Brandon Johnson and De'Jon Jackson each scored 18 points. A couple of other players were key contributors, Chris Lewis got the team off to a quick start, he scored 15 on 7 of 8 from the floor, and Roberto Mafra, went to work late in the game, with 2 key blocked shots and a big basket down the stretch to finish with 9 points and 5 rebounds.

I'll have the call on San Diego 1700 (XX1090's sister station), starting with the pre-game at 6:45, then the game at 7pm. You can also listen on the web, at www.usdtoreros.com.

Talk to you later...

Andy

Gold for Gonzo, nothing for Kouz

2009-11-11T13:23:00.000-08:00

Adrian Gonzalez won his second consecutive Rawlings Gold Glove at 1B today. Kevin Kouzmanoff fell short in his attempt to win his first. Here's the results of the final vote (and my thoughts):

C: Yadier Molina, STL (agree with this selection)
1B: Adrian Gonzalez, SD (agree with this selection)
2B: Orlando Hudson, LAD (I guess)
3B: Ryan Zimmerman, WAS (not sure why)
SS: Jimmy Rollins, PHI (agree with this selection)
OF: Michael Bourn, HOU (agree with this selection)
OF: Matt Kemp, LAD (agree completely with this selection)
OF: Shane Victorino, PHI (agree with this selection)
P: Adam Wainwright, STL (if it's not Maddux, who cares?)

Now as I discussed yesterday, a lot of times this award is based on anything but fielding. Reputation and even offense start to play a role in decisions to award the highest defensive honor in the game. Kouz on paper really deserved to take the award. He did miss some time down the stretch which may have hurt him, but still, the numbers don't lie. Congratulations to Adrian, and hopefully next year for Kouz!

The Silver Slugger awards are announced tomorrow, then we wait until Monday to find out the Rookie of the Year winners.

CY Ready...
For those asking about how Chris Young is doing, make sure you read this article in the Union Tribune, today, Bill Center gives you an update...and it's a good one. Think about what a healthy Young does to the emerging rotation for the Padres. He provides some nice veteran leadership, and a front end guy, combined with Kevin Correia and the rest of the youngsters, could be a good staff. We'll have to see if there's enough in the budget, or a deal is done by new GM Jed Hoyer to bring in another veteran arm.

Well that was....uneventful...
The GM Meetings have wrapped up in Chicago and there were no trades done in the three days. Not to say that groundwork hasn't been set for free agent pickups or deals down the road.

Getting UGLY in LA...
Padres fans know all too well about what a divorce can do to a team. The stage is setting for an ugly divorce between Frank and Jamie McCourt. Jamie was fired by Frank as the CEO of the team several weeks ago. She sued to get her job back but was unsuccessful. Now, she not only wants her job back, she wants to BUY the team. She claims that she's been running the team since day one. As she is quoted as saying...

"I was handling everything from catsup dispenser to whether [manager] Joe Torre should be hired," McCourt, 55, told the Los Angeles Times in a column published Wednesday.

This could get very interesting, stay tuned!

Alright off to USD to watch the Toreros practice for the game coming up Friday night against Stanford!

Have a great day!

Andy

Random Musings...

2009-11-10T14:42:00.000-08:00

To this point, there's been no huge news coming out of the GM meetings in Chicago, so I figured, I'd spout off about a few things...

Good as Gold?
Tomorrow we find out about the NL Gold Glove winners, and no doubt the Padres have two and maybe 3 legitimate candidates for the award. It's hard to figure though, since this award sometimes gets based on reputation, and yes, even offense. That makes no sense but it's true. Ok, back to the SD candidates...

Let's start with the obvious, and that's Adrian Gonzalez. He would win the award at 1B in back to back seasons. It seems as though, once you break through, you are in real consideration every year. He has the offensive numbers to back up the award as well. He fielded .995 this season, which was tied for fourth in the NL.

Now, the guy that should walk away with the Gold Glove at third base, Kevin Kouzmanoff. The question is will he? If I had a vote, it would go to Kouz with no questions asked. Watching him play the field this year was a true pleasure. Plus I know how hard he works at his craft. He is out well before batting practice taking grounders from infield coach, Glenn Hoffman, pretty much every day. Kouz had the highest fielding percentage in the NL, and set a record for a single season, fielding .990 at the hot corner. Now, will he win it? I think that the award will somehow elude Kouz, and go to Nationals 3B, Ryan Zimmerman. I don't like to say that, and certainly hope I'm wrong. Here's where reputation and offense will come into play. Ridiculous, I know. Let's see how it works out.

Also in consideration is Mr. Steady, David Eckstein, who made a league fewest 2 errors all season, and fielded .997. Will he beat out the rest of the field? Let's wait and find out. He should win it though, again having benefit of watching every game he's played as a Padre, his range is underrated, and his saving some of the young pitchers with the ability to turn double plays goes unnoticed too.

Revisit Replay?
Baseball's GM's did not take a vote on a chance to expand the use of instant replay after a season and post-season filled with horrible calls by umpires. I find this to be a shame. I realize that it's an uphill fight, since the man in charge, Bud Selig, sees no reason to expand the current replay system, but come on. Either improve the replay system, or improve the umpiring. There are guys out there on the field that display the body language, of "why am I here, do I really need to do this" and others look to pick fights and are so confrontational that it's disgusting. Mr. Selig, please do one or the other, PLEASE!

Will less $ = more deals?
Several teams have already indicated that they will not be big players in the free agent market, due to the economy and some of the big pay days that may be due to some of the top free agents. My thinking is there will be more trades to try and improve clubs, rather than big money free agent signings. Of course the big market teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers and others may buck that trend, but for the most part we may be looking at a much busier trade market when the teams get together in Indianapolis for the Winter Meetings next month. Just a thought.

Scully not silenced...
Dodgers long time play by play announcer Vin Scully may not walk away after next year as previously thought. Scully turns 82 soon, and made some statements in July that indicated he would be done after 2010. He immediately regretted those statements saying he still loves what he does and is leaving the door open for 2011 and beyond. Folks, this is a quality human being, not just a great announcer, but a great person. Scully is so friendly, and is always in a good mood. And why not? He's been with the Dodgers forever and like me, gets paid to watch baseball games for a living. I hope he keeps going as long as he wants.

USD...
Don't forget, USD opens up it's season against Stanford at the Jenny Craig Pavilion, Friday night. It's a young team, with a lot of potential, and some more athleticism than last year's team. Brandon Johnson and De'Jon Jackson are back and will try to lead the youngsters to a great season. Hope you can join us at the JCP, and if not, I'll have the call on XX1090, starting at 6:45 Friday night.

Alright, have a great day!

Andy

Turn up the Hot Stove...

2009-11-08T21:46:00.000-08:00

I just love that term, "Hot Stove League", but what exactly does it mean? I took the time to look it up for you, and here are some definitions courtesy of Wikipedia...

The Hot Stove League is a baseball-related term, referring to the off-season. Therefore, it is not actually a "league", but the term instead calls up images of baseball fans, anxious for the start of the new season, gathering around a hot stove during the cold winter months discussing their favorite baseball teams. The term has also come to refer to the wave of off-season player transactions (trades, re-signings, free agency, etc.) that occur between seasons, especially during the winter meetings. Since most free agent signings and trades occur during the off-season, this time of significant player transactions (including rumors and speculation about possible trades), is often referred to as the "Hot Stove League" or sometimes more simply "Hot Stove". Essentially, teams continue competing, except it is the team owners and general managers who are doing the playing, with the score being in terms of human resource losses and gains.

Ok, now with that out of the way, it will get underway starting with the GM Meetings in Chicago, starting tomorrow morning. Some deals may get done, but more likely the groundwork for deals to be consummated at the winter meetings will be laid. Padres new GM Jed Hoyer will make his first official appearance representing the team, and it will be interesting to find out who he chats with and what his off season plan is.

Before being let go, Kevin Towers, had reportedly wanted to upgrade in a couple of different spots, including perhaps centerfield. There were also thoughts of trying to get another starter, to go along with a hopefully healthy Chris Young, and Kevin Correia. We'll see what transpires in that department.

Of course the other name that will keep fans on edge this winter, is that of Adrian Gonzalez. His contract is extremely manageable. Adrian is owed $4.75 million in 2010, and there's a club option for 2011 at $5.5 million dollars. This makes him good trade bait, but at the same time, good to keep. I'm not waffling, I just don't know what the plan actually is.

If it's me (and the decision is not mine!), I hang on to Adrian Gonzalez. I realize that you might be able to make a slightly lesser "Jake Peavy" type deal, and maybe get some pitching back for him, but I just like what Adrian brings to the team. A pure long ball threat, a walk and OBP machine, plus Gold Glove defense. I know, all of that makes him attractive to other clubs, but can you get equal value for his age (27) and relative cheap price tag? I know that all options will be explored, but I'd like to see the team hang on to Adrian.

I will try as best I can to keep you updated on what is going on at the GM Meetings, so check back during the day tomorrow as well...

How do rumors get started...
I mentioned the name Mike Cameron before, and now that he's expected to become a free agent, the rumor is he may be coming back to SD? Check out this link to mlbtraderumors.com where the writer makes predictions about where the top 50 free agents will wind up. Interesting stuff.

Only in New York...
When the Yankees "ticker tape" parade rolled through the streets of New York, some apparently ran out of confetti, so those in the high rise office buildings took matters into their own hands. They began tossing files and personal financial documents out the windows. Somebody walking around after the parade found sheets of paper that included personal banking documents, pay stubs, court files, and even law firm memos. Isn't the old saying, "Act like you've been there before?" Haven't they?

Football Sunday...Chargers with a Giant win...
What a big win for the Chargers today at the Meadowlands. Phillip Rivers led the game winning drive, hitting Vincent Jackson for the touchdown. Now the debate will always come up, whether or not the Chargers would have been better with Eli Manning or with Rivers. To me, and I know I haven't been in town all that long, I would always side with the guy, that is the warrior. Rivers throws his body around, plays hurt, makes the tough throws and is a leader. I take him. I know Manning has a Superbowl ring, but come on, give me Rivers everyday of the week and 2 times on Sunday.

Sunday bloody Sunday...
Now, the team I grew up rooting for, just didn't show up again. The Bears get blown out at home by the Cardinals and Kurt Warner who threw 5 touchdown passes. Tommie Harris gets kicked out of the game on the 4th play from scrimmage, and it was down hill from there. And to think I rushed to run some errands to get back and watch that game. Ugh.

You all remember the last time the Bears and Cardinals played right? It was in the 2006 season, when the Bears made that crazy come back and then Dennis Green melted down in the post game press conference. Well today, Ken Whisenhunt made light of it. Check out this tweet from my friend Zach Zaidman who is the Bears sideline reporter...

@ZachZaidman "The last thing I'd like to say is, we didn't let them off the hook," Whisenhunt joked at his postgame news conference.

Good stuff Ken.

It's Torero Time...
Stopped by the Jenny Craig Pavilion last night to watch the Toreros in their only exhibition game this year, against Occidental College. The Toreros looked good in a 91-52 win. 5 USD players were in double figures. They are a much more athletic team this season, and are deeper. Coach Bill Grier went 12 deep on the bench, although the regular season rotation may be a bit tighter. Keep an eye on freshman guard Patrick McCollum from Tacoma. He has a ton of energy and just looks like a ballplayer. He could be fun to watch this season.

Along the equal time theory, as I know many of you are Aztec fans and they beat Cal Baptist in an exhibition game as well, 72-57. There was a great article about Aztec freshman Kawhi Leonard in today's Union Tribune. It kind of puts basketball into perspective for a young athlete. I highly recommend checking it out by clicking here.

Alright, that's it for me...have a great night and we hope to have more tomorrow on the GM Meetings!

Andy

Need Your Help...

2009-11-07T10:24:00.000-08:00

From time to time, I'm going to ask for your help here at "Masur's Musings" and I have a couple of questions/favors to ask of you...

1. What are your early thoughts on my blog "Masur's Musings"? What would you like to read more of? Less of? I'm new to this blogging thing, so let me know your thoughts.

2. I'd like you to check out my official web page, located at www.andy-masur.com and let me know your thoughts on the site as well. I'm building it and updating it myself, so realize there are some limitations, but feel free to check it out and give me your thoughts.

Please respond with your comments here on "Masur's Musings" in the "comment" section just below this entry. I want this to be an interactive thing, and make it reader friendly and give you useful information.

Thank you kindly, and enjoy your weekend!

Andy

A Flurry of Activity...

2009-11-06T11:14:00.000-08:00

This could be a very busy off-season. We are a weekend away from the GM's meetings in Chicago and already some deals have gone down.

To no real surprise, JJ Hardy was dealt by the Brewers, he heads to Minnesota in exchange for centerfielder Carlos Gomez. Hardy as you recall was demoted to the minors, just as the Padres came to town, and it created a major controversy. The move by the Brewers affected Hardy's arbitration status and the player was not happy. Also interesting to keep an eye on, now that Milwaukee has acquired an every day centerfielder, will Mike Cameron be elsewhere in 2010?

The on again, off again deal between the White Sox and Royals, seems to be on again, and has been completed. The Sox acquire Mark Teahen from the Royals for Chris Getz and Josh Fields. The White Sox plan to play the versatile Teahen at 3B, and move Gordon Beckham to 2B. The White Sox also plan to part ways with 2005 WS MVP, Jermaine Dye and will buy out his 2010 option.

Other random notes on a busy Friday: (from MLB.com's, Steve Gilbert) The Diamondbacks picked up the 2010 option on Brandon Webb. It's for $8.5 million.

The Phillies exercised the option on post-season hero Cliff Lee. It's a $9 million option. According to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki, the Phillies would like to engage Lee in long term extension talks. That's a no brainer.

That's a quick look at some of the moves, and again, I'll try to stay on top of any Padres moves at the GM meetings in Chicago Monday. Haven't met the new GM, Jed Hoyer yet, obviously he's been a bit busy, getting to know the organization and preparing for his first big event as the GM. He does have some experience in this realm, since he represented the Red Sox at the GM and Winter Meetings when Theo Epstein walked away from the team briefly several years ago.

Some Padres news/notes...

According to the Union Tribune today, Nick Hundley underwent surgery for a sports hernia. He tells the paper he first was injured in May and played through the pain receiving treatment for the hernia.

Also in Padres news today, Brian Giles and Henry Blanco officially filed for free agency. There had been talk before Kevin Towers was dismissed as GM, that Blanco was a guy the Padres wanted to bring back. We'll see if that has changed now that there's a new guy in charge.

USD 6th Man Dinner, a big success...

It was my pleasure once again to serve as the emcee for USD's annual fund raiser, the 6th Man Dinner last night. The staff and crew of the Jenny Craig Pavilion make the building over, and turn it into an elegant banquet hall. It's hard to believe every year that we are doing this event in a basketball arena. Kudos to them.

This year the committee brought in a guest speaker, and Steve Lavin, the former coach at UCLA and now college hoops analyst for ABC/ESPN was the guy. Lavin watched practice yesterday and offered his thoughts, he addressed the team, and spoke about the importance of being a student/athlete. A very good talk from Lavin. He also talked extensively about Bill Grier's ability to coach, and how he is able to adjust during games to what is going on. He also mentioned that Grier felt that San Diego is a place he'd like to lay down roots, and not be a "one hit wonder". Let's hope that's the case. Grier is not only a good coach, but a great person to be around. He certainly makes my job as the play by play voice much easier, allowing me access to the team and it's practices.

Also coach Grier addressed the gathered crowd, and introduced his 2009-10 team on stage. Fans, from first glance, it's a young team, with a good mix of some veteran leadership. This team has some speed and can get up and down the floor. Grier made it known that it is great to have Brandon Johnson back in the fold after his season ending injury of last year, but that BJ is only operating at about 75 percent. It will just be good to have him on the floor, as he's one of the fiercest competitors I've seen. All you have to do is look back to the game in the 2007-08 season, at the WCC Tournament, playing all 50 minutes in the come from behind, double overtime win over St Mary's. Amazing.

The Toreros only exhibition game is tomorrow night, at the JCP, 6pm against Occidental College. Then it tips off for real, a week from today, against Stanford in the home/season opener at 7pm.

Alright, a lot to digest, perhaps more later...

Andy

Bouncing In The Bronx...

2009-11-04T20:57:00.000-08:00

New stadium, same old result, the Yankees are the champions of baseball again. For the 27th time in the storied history of the franchise, the Yankees celebrate as World Champions. It's an unprecedented number, the most titles in American and for that matter North American sports.

The Yankees didn't hide the fact that they were going to throw money at this team, and go for broke. It PAID off in a big way. Bringing in CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett and Mark Teixeira cost plenty, ($423.5 million to be exact) but I'm sure that there is not a Steinbrenner alive that even cares a bit tonight. Combine the big money spent with the big game players this team has, like Andy Pettitte and his 18 playoff wins, Derek Jeter and his 170+ hits in post season, and 5 WS titles and Mariano Rivera, the greatest "post season" closer (Trevor is still the all time greatest and there's not an argument here) ever, is it really a surprise that this team won it all? I didn't even mention A-Rod, Jorge Posada and Johnny Damon.

Let's talk about Joe Girardi for a minute. He won 3 titles as a Yankee catcher, now he gets his first as a manager. I couldn't be happier for a classy guy, who deserves to win it all. Girardi took his lumps last year, and even this year there was plenty of second guessing, but now, #27 helped the Yankees to #27 and has another ring to celebrate. Girardi was able to win the title with a 3 man rotation. Give the former catcher a little credit for being able to get his pitchers ready to go on short rest and in big games. He actually started to think about a 3 man rotation in September when the Yanks had several off days in the month and a comfortable lead in the division. He rested starters in the regular season, to get them ready for the big stage. Congratulations Joe on a job well done.

Hideki Matsui was named the World Series MVP. He solidified his hold on the trophy with a 6 RBI game tonight, joining Bobby Richardson another Yankee, who did it in the 1960 WS against the Pirates. Matsui could be one of the first MVP's of a World Series, not to be back with the team in which he won the award. He's a free agent, and it's not likely that the Yankees will bring him back.

Random series musings...

George Steinbrenner must be in really bad shape, he was noticeably absent in New York tonight. Love him, or hate him, it's the 7th title for the Yankees since he bought the team in 1973.

Couldn't help but chuckle a little, when I saw former Padre Chad Gaudin on the field celebrating a title with the Yankees. Think about his 2009...cut by the Cubs in spring training, signed by the Padres, sent to the minors to build arm strength, in the rotation, then traded to New York. Congrats Chad!

On to the off-season...

Now starts the season that a lot of baseball fans really enjoy, the off season, and the start of the Hot Stove League. Baseball's GM's including the newest among them Padres GM, Jed Hoyer will be meeting in Chicago next week. Trades sometimes happen there, but more often groundwork for possible deals are set up, and then consummated at the Winter Meetings.

1 Gonzalez Gone...

It appears that we've seen the last of Edgar Gonzalez in a Padres uniform. The older brother of Adrian Gonzalez was outrighted to Triple A Portland today, and will likely choose free agency instead of his minor league assignment. He talked to the Union Tribune today...

“I think this is the end of my run here,” Gonzalez said. “I love San Diego. And the Padres gave me an opportunity that I'm thankful for. But my future is probably elsewhere.”

Edgar hit a total of 11 homers in just under 500 total at bats with the Padres. He made his big league debut with his hometown team in May of 2008. Gonzalez missed 46 games after being beaned by Colorado's Jason Hammel. The next day the Padres acquired Oscar Salazar. I'm going to miss Edgar. He is a great person, and a lot of fun to talk to on a daily basis. Edgar really appreciated every day in the big leagues, and it showed. Good luck Edgar.

Other notes...

Dodgers' pitcher Vicente Padilla was accidentally shot today at a target range in Nicaragua. He's recovering from a gunshot wound to the leg after the instructor shot him after Padilla's gun jammed. He went 4-0 with the Dodgers over the final 2 months of the season.

Getting there is NOT half the fun...

Ok, as promised the story of my long night in the air and on the road. I boarded a plane at Chicago's Midway Airport, bound for San Diego at 7:30 central time. The flight was supposed to land at Lindbergh Field at 10:00 pacific time. The key words are supposed to. We were informed before leaving that there was fog rolling in and that we could be delayed on the ground. Nope. The flight took off and with about 25 minutes left in it, the captain came over the speakers saying, that the fog was too thick in San Diego, and since Lindbergh has only one runway, more visibility is needed to land there than anywhere. Ok. With that we were off to lovely (no offense to anyone from there...) Ontario, California. After landing we were given bright green boarding passes, our "ticket" for the bus ride home to San Diego. After retrieving my luggage (from the wrong carousel) it was outside to wait in a long, long, long, long line to get on the bus.

I find that you learn a lot about human's in general when the chips are down. Me being the social sort, befriended a couple of people in line. We tried to rent a car, but the airport terminals closed and we couldn't. So we waited. Finally it was our turn to get on the bus and begin the 2 plus hour journey down the 15. Thankfully the two people I met were great. We passed the time talking about a bunch of different subjects, including the World Series, world travel, the internet and it's affect on society, and how SLOWLY the bus driver was going! I want to thank those two folks, for being so cool, and making a bad situation tolerable.

Again to revisit, supposed arrival time in San Diego, 10pm, actual arrival time, 1:27am. Ouch.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it. Have a great night, and stay tuned to this blog for all the latest on the Padres off-season news and the latest on the USD Toreros!

Andy

Game 6...

2009-11-04T16:19:00.000-08:00

It's all on the line for the Phillies again tonight, as the Yankees can close out championship #27 with a win tonight. Philadelphia forced the series back to NYC with an 8-6 win in Philly Monday night. Tonight's pitching matchup is one for the ages, two veterans, with tons of post season experience, Andy Pettitte on three day's rest for the Yankees, against Pedro Martinez for the Phils.

Chase Utley has had himself quite a series, he's blasted 5 home runs, to tie Reggie Jackson for the most ever hit in a single World Series.

Late breaking news from @Philaphillies (the official team twitter), Shane Victorino is in the Phillies starting lineup. It reads as follows: Rollins, Victorino, Utley, Howard, Werth, Ibanez, Feliz, Francisco, and Ruiz. Ibanez is the DH.

From @Yankees (the official team twitter) here's the Yankees lineup tonight: Jeter, Damon, Teixeira, Rodriguez, Matsui (DH), Posada, Cano, Swisher, Gardner.

More after the game. And some details on my crazy adventure of a flight back to San Diego last night. I wound up in Ontario.

Incredib-LEE the Phillies are still alive...

2009-11-02T20:33:00.000-08:00

Cliff Lee once again proved he was the best pick up of the season before the trade deadline. Lee pitched into the 8th and gave his team a chance, and they cashed in, with a hard fought 8-6 win in game 5 of the World Series. It's heading back to New York now, with the Yankees in front 3-2. You knew that the defending champs would not go quietly into that goodnight (nice obscure "Back to School reference there for all you Rodney Dangerfield fans), and that was the case in their final home game of 2009.

Once again it was Chase to the rescue, and I'm not talking about the bank. The only deposits being made were balls off the bat of Chase Utley into the stands. The Phillies 2B hit two more in game 5 giving him 5 for the World Series tying "Mr. October" Reggie Jackson for the most in a single World Series. The Phillies certainly needed both of his HR's, and got another homer off the bat of Raul Ibanez to force a Game 6.

AJ Burnett pitching on 3 days rest, looked like he needed some more. He only made it into the third inning before being lifted by manager Joe Girardi. It's a shame for the Yankees too, because with their offense they are rarely out of games. They made a valiant come back but fell just short.

World Serious...

Ryan Howard, is mired in a terrible offensive slump, he's 3 for 19 (.158) with 12 strikeouts, tying the WS record held by Kansas City's Willie Wilson in 1980...

Eric Hinske got a pinch hit at bat tonight, he has now appeared in 3 consecutive WS, with 3 different teams. 2007, Boston, 2008 Tampa Bay (homered against Phillies) and 2009 Yankees. He joins Don Baylor (1986-88) as the only players to accomplish this feat...

Lee gave up five runs in his 7 innings, but remained perfect this post-season, he's now 4-0...

The series now shifts back to New York, for game 6, on Wednesday. Pedro Martinez will start for the Phillies, facing Andy Pettitte for the Yankees.

Random Musings...

I'll be the emcee for the USD Toreros 6th Man Night on Thursday as we get ready to lift the curtain on the 2009-10 season. Steve Lavin, the former coach of the UCLA Bruins will be the guest speaker for the event. Lavin was the only analyst to correctly predict that the Toreros would upset UCONN in the NCAA's two years ago. I'll have a full report on the events of the night later in the week. Toreros start the season at home against Stanford, Friday November 13. Hope to see you there. Or hope you listen starting at 6:45 on XX 1090!

I will not have a blog (at least not planning on it, but you never know!) tomorrow. It's a travel day for yours truly. Heading back to San Diego after a relaxing few weeks in the Windy City with my family and friends. It was great catching up, but now it's time to get back and get ready for hoops!!

Have a great night!

Andy

Advantage Yankees...

2009-11-01T08:13:00.000-08:00

Nick Swisher? The same Nick Swisher the White Sox got rid of? The Nick Swisher that was benched by manager Joe Girardi in game 2? Yes, it was that Nick Swisher who came back to help the Yankees, win game 3 and take a 2-1 lead in the World Series. A crushing blow to the Phillies, who give up a game at home, and now will have to hope they can force the series back to New York. Cole Hamels last year's MVP has looked like anything but that this post-season, while Andy Pettitte looked like the solid veteran pitcher he is, in helping his team to a win.

It wasn't only Swisher (2-4, HR, RBI), it was replay to the rescue in a critical part of the game. The Phillies had a 3-0 lead, as the top of the 4th began. Mark Teixeira drew a walk, and then Alex Rodriguez drove a ball to the right field corner, it looked to have hit off the wall, for what was ruled a double. But after further review...the ball hit the TV camera down the line and over the wall, and was ruled a 2 run homer, and the Yankees were rolling after that.

Tonight, the Yankees and Phillies go in game 4...Joe Blanton will take the ball for Philadelphia and CC Sabathia will throw for the Yankees, on 3 days rest.

After further review...my thoughts on replay...

REPLAY. It's the dreaded "R" word for baseball and its umpires. This was the first time the video was used in a world series game, EVER. Is it a sign of things to come in the regular season? It very well could be. To me, you can't slow the game of baseball down anymore than it already is (not a bad thing to me, love the drama and no clock), but something needs to be done. I realize the human element has been in place since the game began, but these humans make critical mistakes and cost teams games. Something like the NFL plan can be put into place. Allow team's managers to "challenge" 2 plays a game. Here's the way to regulate it though. If you lose your first challenge, you lose your second challenge as well. This way, team's will have to be absolutely certain of their challenge or they could lose both.

Balls and strikes would not be a situation allowed to be challenged. Fair/Foul, HR/no HR, catch/no catch, and perhaps those bang-bang plays on the bases would be challengeable. Wonder if baseball will agree with me? Wonder if you agree with me? Comment!

Random musings on a Sunday...

I still don't get this daylight savings time thing. Why do we insist on being miserable in the winter time with less light? I know that there were reasons for it way back when, farmers and the like needed earlier sunrise in the fall/winter to harvest crops, but now we have portable lighting systems and other technology. Hmmm.

Just in case you didn't know. Brett Favre is returning to Lambeau Field as a Viking today to play his former team the Packers. Not sure if you heard that enough.

I predict that the Chargers will roll over the Raiders today at the Q. The Raiders are playing better lately, but their QB JaMarcus Russell looks lost at times. Ron Rivera will have to get his troops to the QB, not just to sack him, but to hit him, make him uncomfortable and he'll throw picks a plenty.

Personal Note...

It was 10 years ago today that a childhood hero of mine passed away, much too soon. Walter Payton, the man they called "Sweetness" died of complications due to liver cancer on this date in 1999. Two of the toughest things I've ever covered in my career as a sportscaster were Payton's announcement that he had the disease. He broke down on the podium and it was a surreal feeling to be there. Payton passed just before a Bears/Packers game at Lambeau Field. I covered his funeral from a distance, and then the game in Green Bay. The Bears had a 14-13 lead with :05 left in the 4th quarter. Ryan Longwell was setting up for a chip shot field goal to win the game. Somehow, Bears lineman Mike Wells, reached up and blocked the kick. It was an amazing scene on the field. Everybody knew that #34 had something to do with it and who am I to disagree. Rest in peace Sweetness.

That's it for me...enjoy the game tonight and football today....

Andy

It's All Even...

2009-10-29T20:54:00.000-07:00

It was deemed a must win for the Yankees, and they came through at home in Game 2 of the World Series, with a 3-1 victory over the Phillies. It was a good pitching battle for the first few innings, with AJ Burnett and Pedro Martinez keeping each offense silent. But in the end, it was the Yankees offense that woke up, Mark Teixeira hit a homer and New York knots the series at 1 a piece.

As I suspected last night, Joe Girardi went to Mariano Rivera for 2 innings to nail down the save. Girardi has seemingly lost faith in that middle relief/set up corps, including Joba Chamberlain and Phillip Hughes. Rivera is not exactly in the early part of his career and you have to wonder how often Girardi will be able to call upon him to get 6 outs.

As hot as Alex Rodriguez was in the ALDS and ALCS, is as cold as he's been in the first two games of the World Series. He is 0 for 8 and has struck out 6 times in the series.

World Series Musings...

Noticed today (sorry if I'm late to the party), but the Phillies have an old sport coat once worn by legendary broadcaster Harry Kalas, hanging in the dugout. I think that's a great gesture on the team's part. Kalas was a part of the Phillies previous two WS wins, in 1980 and last year.

Umpire Brian Gorman was front and center, robbing both teams of scoring chances. He called a "line drive" caught by Ryan Howard, when replays show it was short hopped. Howard threw to Jimmy Rollins who tagged Jorge Posada to "double him up" and the Yankee threat was over. Gorman also called Chase Utley out at first base completing a double play in the 8th inning. Replays show it was not that close, that Utley beat the throw and should have been on base with Howard at the plate. Nope. The 6 man umpire crew huddled a couple of times tonight, that's never a good thing, especially when they don't get the calls correct. Most of the time.

Have you ever been to a game at Yankee Stadium? Have you ever heard a bunch of orchestrated cheering in the top of the first inning and wondered, "what is that?" The fans in the right center field bleachers do what they call a "roll call" chant. They start in leftfield, by chanting that players' name, they move to center, to right, to third, short, second and first. They leave the pitcher and catcher alone. The only way they stop chanting the player's name, is when he acknowledges the cheer, with a wave, or a tip of the cap. It's pretty cool to see it and hear it live at a game.

Chase Utley just keeps on going. He's now been on base in 27 consecutive post season games.

Derek Jeter was named the 2009 winner of the Roberto Clemente Award. It's given annually to the player who combines community service and excellence on the field.

Padres stuff...

My buddy Corey Brock the Padres beat writer for MLB.com, is going back through the 2009 season and grading the starting pitching, bullpen, offense and defense. It's an interesting look at what was and what might be...the series is titled, Making the Grade.

Alright, have a great night....

Andy

Phillies Chase Yankees Home Field Advantage, Quick-Lee...

2009-10-28T21:38:00.000-07:00

Two swings of Chase Utley's bat, and many swings and misses by Yankees hitters, that added up to a 6-1 win for Philadelphia in Game One of the World Series. Utley hit 2 home runs off of CC Sabathia, and Cliff Lee went the distance for the second time this post season. He allowed just 6 hits, walked none and struck out 10. He's now 3-0, with a 0.54 ERA in the playoffs. Lee struck out Alex Rodriguez three times, holding him hitless in 4 at bats in game one.

The Yankees have to be asking themselves what it might be like to possibly face the lefty Lee 2 more times. Sabathia lost for the first time in the playoffs this year, and didn't pitch badly, he just didn't get any offensive support and exited the game after 7 innings. That's when the lead was only 2-0 Phillies, and that's when the game turned. The Yankees bullpen imploded. The combination of Hughes, Marte, Robinson, Bruney, and Coke gave up 4 earned runs over 2 innings and it was pretty much over. Remember that one of the keys I brought up yesterday was getting the game to Mariano Rivera. If the Yankees can't find a way to do that, they could be in trouble.

Utley by the way, set a new post season record by reaching in his 26th straight playoff game. He failed to reach in his very first game in 2007, and has reached in every one since.

Game 2...

The Yankees won't have to wait long to try and even up the series. Game two is Thursday night in the Bronx. AJ Burnett will try to turn things around, after a rough outing in Anaheim last week as the Yankees couldn't close out the Angels that night. Pedro Martinez will go for the Phillies. He is no stranger to pitching in New York, he had some memorable games against the Yankees, while pitching for the Red Sox.

All the pressure in Game 2, squarely falls on Burnett. The Yankees and their three man rotation has usually featured a win by Sabathia, allowing Burnett and Pettitte a little margin for error. Not Thursday night. Burnett needs a strong 7 or more likely 8 innings to get things to Rivera. Joe Girardi is probably sleeping on whether or not to use Rivera for 2 innings like he did in the clincher against the Angels.

For Martinez he'll make his first career start at the New Yankee Stadium, but he won't be phased. Pedro is a career 8-4 with a 2.95 ERA against the Yankees in New York. He has made only 1 post season start this season, he didn't figure in the decision against the Dodgers in the NLCS. He went seven scoreless innings in that start. That's the last time he's pitched, so the 38 year old should be fresh and ready to go.

Umps get one right...

I know I'm not alone in beating up the umps this post-season, and I've certainly pointed out when they've blown calls, now it's time to point out one they got right. Give this crew some credit. With Yankee runner at first, in the 5th inning, Robinson Cano hit a sinking liner to Rollins, he made the catch on the line, just to be certain he stepped on second and then threw wide to first pulling Ryan Howard off of first (maybe). Matsui the runner at first, believing he'd been forced at 2nd, stopped running, and Rollins noticed it, yelling to Howard to tag Matsui. He did. Now at first, the umps ruled only one out. They huddled, all six of them, and then realized that if Rollins made the catch, the touch of second was a non factor, and Matsui was off the bag at first, for a very strange 6-3 double play. Way to get it right guys. Congratulations.

Notes...

This was the first World Series matchup of Cy Young winners, since Greg Maddux (Atlanta) faced Orel Hershiser (Cleveland) in 1995.

The last six teams to win the series opener, have gone on to win the World Series Title.

Sex for tix?

Police in Philadelphia arrested a woman for offering "sexual services for world series tickets" in an on line ad. The 43-year old self described "buxom blonde" was trying to 'score' tickets on line to take her husband to a Phillies WS game. She was arrested when she showed up at a bar, and met up with an undercover police officer who responded to the ad. Her lawyer is trying to get the charges dropped.

On that note. Have a great night!

Andy

Here We Go...

2009-10-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

It's World Series eve, and it's time to get things underway. The Yankees host the Phillies in game one at the new stadium in the bronx. It's going to be a matchup of former Cleveland Indians teammates, each making their first world series start, CC Sabathia for the Yankees and Cliff Lee for the Phillies. They are the last two AL Cy Young award winners as well.

Let's break down this series...

Philadelphia Phillies, NL Champions, Defending WS Champs...

The Phillies certainly have recent experience on their side. Virtually everybody on the roster played for the WS team of a year ago. That certainly bodes well for them. When you look at the Philadelphia starting rotation, it gets off to a great start with Lee. He was arguably the most important pick up of the 2009 season. The Phillies come back with more post-season experience in Pedro Martinez and then last year's MVP, Cole Hamels. Then Charlie Manuel has a choice, with either Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ, or go right back with Lee depending on how the series is playing out.

The Phillies bullpen again is a source of questions. It seems like Brad Lidge has regained some of his form of last year, nailing down saves in the NLDC and NLCS. His confidence is back, but will it remain if a hot hitting Yankees team lights him up in an outing. Getting the ball to him has also been a tough chore at times. Chad Durbin did a nice job in the NLCS, Ryan Madson had his moments, veteran lefty Scott Eyre has been solid and Chan Ho Park has been a bit up and down. This is going to be important to the Phillies if they hope to repeat as champs.

We know that the Phils hit some home runs, and Yankee Stadium along with Citizens Bank Park, are both conducive to the long ball. The Phillies do not completely rely on the long ball though, with some speed at the top of their lineup with Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino.

New York Yankees, AL Champions for the 40th time...

Even though it's been a while since the Yankees made it to the World Series, there are a few key members of the team that have some credible experience in the post-season. Derek Jeter, and Mariano Rivera to name two. The Yankees manager, Joe Girardi also has WS experience as a player. The New York starting rotation is pretty similar to that of the Phillies, with CC Sabathia the ALCS MVP going in game one, AJ Burnett who has been up and down this post season gets game two, and Andy Pettitte will throw game three. It's very likely that Girardi will bring back Sabathia for a fourth game and possibly a 7th game if its necessary, and why not?

The Yankees bullpen is also quite similar to that of the Phillies. The only difference is a rock solid playoff and world series tested closer in Mariano Rivera. Getting the ball to him has been a bit of an adventure in the post season, but if the Yankees can get leads, and get him in the game, consider it won.

Home runs were flying off the bats of the Yankees this season as well. So again the offenses are similarly matched each team having some good table setters and good power in the middle of the lineup.

Who will win...

It's been a while since two teams that are basically mirror images of one another will face each other for all the marbles in the World Series. After thinking about some of the facts in the breakdown segment, I'm going to select the New York Yankees to win the series, and it's going to go the full 7 games.

The difference is going to be Rivera. He's about the only thing that really separates the two teams. I give the slight edge to the Yankees also in the starting rotation. Sabathia has been as advertised and worth every penny he signed for this off season and is there a bigger game pitcher in the post-season out there than Andy Pettitte? Defensively the nod goes to the Phillies, and I give them the slight edge in offense, but as many around baseball will tell you, good pitching can stop good pitching.

The other interesting thing to watch will be the use of the DH in the AL park and no DH in the NL park. Ben Francisco will likely start as DH for the Phillies in game one against the lefty Sabathia. To me the difference will be hard to notice. The Phillies are built almost like an American League team.

I really hope it's an exciting series that provides some drama, and that NO GAME IS DECIDED BY A BLOWN CALL BY AN UMPIRE!

Can I get an AMEN?

WS Notes:

* The Phillies are the first NL team to go to back to back World Series since the Atlanta Braves in 1995 and 1996.

* The Yankees won the World Series in their first season in the Old Yankee Stadium, and played exactly 100 series games there.

* The Yankees are the last team to repeat as champions, they won three WS in a row, from 1998-2000.

Jimmy "The Greek"?

Jimmy Rollins is stirring up the pot a bit, making a bold prediction before this series starts. He told New York Newsday:

"Oh, man, well of course we're going to win," Rollins said. "If we're nice, we'll let it go six. But I'm thinking five and close it out at home."

Rollins has made statements before, just ask the Mets in 2007. Rollins irritated that New York team by saying that he had no doubt the Phillies were the team to beat in the NL East that year. He backed up his words by winning the NL MVP Award that season as the Phillies won the division.

Random Thoughts...

Mentioned yesterday that Mark McGwire was hired as the Cardinals new hitting coach. It prompted an interesting comment from a viewer. To paraphrase, the question is, why is McGwire allowed back into baseball and Pete Rose is still banned? McGwire never admitted to steroid use, and basically dodged the issue in front of the US Congress. Rose, denied and denied and denied he ever bet on baseball, that is until it was time to sell a book, and he in a roundabout sort of way admitted to it finally. It's a tough call. McGwire never tested positive for steroids. The whole issue started when someone noticed the Andro (not going to even try and spell it) in his locker. I think the fact that McGwire has been out of sight makes many think he's guilty. I do believe that McGwire owes the game and the fans an explanation. He needs to hold a press conference before Spring Training starts to clear the air. Otherwise his presence is going to be a distraction to the Cardinals and to the game. He'll be the focus of the media every time the Cardinals visit a new city. This could be interesting.

Brad Mills has been hired as the new manager of the Houston Astros. Mills has been the bench coach in Boston under Terry Francona the last 6 seasons. He does have minor league managing experience, spending 11 seasons as a skipper for three different organizations.

The Ricketts family is finally the owner of the Chicago Cubs. They were approved by the other major league teams, and have taken a 95 percent controlling interest of the team, and Wrigley Field. The sale from the Tribune Company, was for a reported 845 million dollars.

Not sure if you realize this or not, but Brett Favre is playing the Packers this weekend in Green Bay. A special thanks to Fox-TV for making this point, VERY CLEAR during every waking moment of Sunday's NFL coverage. Ugh.

The NBA season opened tonight, somebody please wake me when it ends...

On that note...have a great night!

Andy

Hoyer In the Fold...

2009-10-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

The Padres made it official today, announcing that Jed Hoyer will be the team's new General Manager replacing Kevin Towers.

Hoyer is 35 years old and makes his way to San Diego from Boston where he worked as the assistant GM to another man with Padres ties, Theo Epstein. Hoyer held his first press conference this afternoon, and talked extensively about his plans for the organization moving forward. One thing he really hit hard, was using PETCO Park to the team's advantage.

"It's really important to dominate your home games, to do really well," Hoyer said. "One of the advantages in San Diego is you can tailor the team to the ballpark."
That process seemed to start last season, with the addition of some speed on both the bases and in the outfield. The acquisition of Rule 5 draftee Everth Cabrera, Tony Gwynn Jr. and the emergence of Will Venable as a solid defender in the outfield certainly helped out a young pitching staff.

Hoyer was very complimentary of his predecessor Kevin Towers.

"I grew up in baseball listening to Theo extol Kevin's virtues," Hoyer said. "I got to know him a little bit through Theo. He's one of the best baseball guys in the game. ...
"I'm incredibly thankful for what he's left behind. He's left behind some great players, some great building blocks and a great baseball operations staff. Every day I walk into the office, I'm going to be thankful for the work he did."

He also outlined a brief philosophy on how he wants to proceed...

"My goal is consistency. I want to make sure that on Opening Day every year, there's a quality team on the field. Really, the only way to develop that kind of consistency is through scouting and player development. Relying on external forces -- trades, free agents -- that's not the way I want to build a team. I want to build from within."

I look forward to meeting him when I get back to town. I'll certainly provide some details when I get that chance. I want to say thanks to Friar John and his blog for providing the picture above, and the quotes.

World Series...

The matchup is set, the Yankees look for their 27th World Championship, taking on the Phillies who are looking to make it back to back titles. I'll provide a little more insight into the series and give you my pick to win it all tomorrow. I think these two teams are quite evenly matched and have pretty similar strengths. Could be a good series.

Who's the Boss?

Yankees owner George Steinbrenner was not at the "House that George Built" to celebrate another American League Pennant. "The Boss" as he's referred to, is not in great health, and only saw 3 regular season games this year. He will be in attendance Wednesday when the World Series starts. Love him or hate him, the Yankees players and coaches are excited to see him at the stadium. Steinbrenner was and is still in some circles a polarizing figure. He had a reputation of being a hot headed, quick tempered owner. He hated losing, and sometimes didn't go about making his changes in a "politically correct" manner, if you will. He made few friends outside of New York, but give him his due, the Yankees have been a dominant force under his leadership. Brash as it may be.

Not even close...Yankees crush Giants...on TV...

Fans in New York, chose the Yankees over the football Giants by a wide margin last night. The ALCS clincher was seen by 26.4 percent of the TV's in the market, while the Giants were watched by only 9.3 percent of households with TV's. By the way, what households don't have TV's these days?

Big Mac is back, so is LaRussa...

Tony LaRussa agreed to a one year extension with the Cardinals marking his 15th season as the team's manager. As I eluded to yesterday, he made one change to his coaching staff, with the hiring of a new hitting coach, Mark McGwire. Big Mac has been in virtual baseball seclusion since his famous "I'm not here to talk about the past" statement before Congress. It will be interesting to see how he will be received outside of St Louis. Some are quick to forgive, some are long to forget.

Alright, that's it for now...perhaps more later....

Andy

Padres to make a major club announcement...at 2:30 today.

2009-10-26T09:58:00.001-07:00

The Padres have called a press conference for 2:30 PM to make a major club announcement.

It is expected that the team will officially announce it has hired a new GM.

More later.

Andy

Padres to make announcement...

2009-10-26T09:58:00.000-07:00

Fox gets it's dream match up...

2009-10-25T21:13:00.000-07:00

It's going to be the Yankees and the Phillies in this year's World Series, which will start Wednesday in New York. The Yankees dispatched the Angels in 6 games with a 5-2 win tonight. It must have seemed (sorry Yogi) like deja vu all over again for the fans in the Bronx, Andy Pettitte pitches into the 7th and Mariano Rivera wraps up the save and the series by going 2 innings tonight. Pettitte now has a record 16 post-season wins. So it's a television network dream matchup, as the large market Yankees take on the large market Phillies, and oh did I mention they are both east coast teams?

CC Sabathia was named the ALCS MVP, going 2-0 with a 1.13 ERA, he also struck out 16 over his two starts. You have to tip your cap to Sabathia, after signing the big, or huge money deal in the offseason, all the pressure was on him. He came through in a tough place to play.

Give Joe Girardi some credit too, he proved that he can manage when there were some questions. After winning the NL Manager of the Year award in 2006 he was fired by the Marlins because of a conflict with the eccentric owner in Florida. He took a year off, and now in his second season in New York, he's going to the World Series. Girardi has been there as a player, and now as a skipper as well. Congratulations Joe.

Cleveland influence in WS...

Yes, it's true, the Indians will be well represented in this year's fall/winter classic. I guess to be more specific, former Indians. The last two AL Cy Young winners will face off in game one, Sabathia goes for the Yankees, and Cliff Lee will take the ball for the Phillies. Sabathia was dealt from Cleveland last year to the Brewers, and led them to the playoffs. Lee was dealt this season by the Indians and is now pitching in the World Series.

Manny gets in on the Acta...

Speaking again of Cleveland, the Indians have a new manager and it's Manny Acta. The former skipper of the lowly Washington Nationals, Acta gets a 3 year deal with a club option for 2013. Acta apparently had an offer to manage the Astros as well, but chose the Indians offer instead.

The Genius returns...and maybe bringing a Big Mac with him?

Tony LaRussa has apparently agreed to an extension with the Cardinals to remain the team's manager. LaRussa told the AP that he'll be back for a 15th season with the Cardinals. There are reports he'll be bringing back a familiar name with him. Mark McGwire could be hired as the team's hitting coach. McGwire has been out of baseball since his famous "let's not talk about the past" testimony before Congress regarding the use of steroids. He hit 583 career homers, and a then record 70 in 1998. He has fallen well short of Hall of Fame voting ever since suspicions arose about his use of performance enhancing drugs.

You can't get there from here...no seriously...

How's this for timing, or should I say leverage? The Philadelphia Transit workers have voted to authorize a strike, just a week before the city is set to host a World Series game. How are all the media members going to get to their cheesteak sandwiches?

ESPN cans Phillips...

The cable sports channel said goodbye to former Mets GM and Baseball Tonight contributor Steve Phillips after he last week admitted to an affair with a 22 year old staffer at ESPN. Phillips is apparently entering a treatment facility "to address his personal issues". Yikes.

Alright that's it for now...stay tuned for more on the reported hiring of Jed Hoyer as the Padres new GM.

Andy

Hoyer looks like the man...

2009-10-24T23:27:00.000-07:00

Although it won't become official until Monday, multiple sources, including MLB.com, and the San Diego Union Tribune, are reporting that the Padres have hired, Red Sox Assistant GM, Jed Hoyer to replace Kevin Towers as the new GM of the Padres.

Hoyer, is 35 years old, and will be a GM for the first time, at least a full-time GM for the first time. Hoyer has worked under Theo Epstein for the last 7 years, and briefly assumed power when Epstein walked away for 44 days, at the end of October 2005. While in charge, Hoyer helped to engineer the deal between the Red Sox and the Marlins, acquiring Josh Beckett and Mike Lowell, sending Hanley Ramirez and Anibal Sanchez to the Marlins. The deal has been widely regarded as one that worked out well for both sides.

Padres Vice Chairman Jeff Moorad stated in his press conference, that he wanted a person to come in and have a more 'strategic' approach. Moorad also wanted a candidate who could use the numbers, and also rely on his knowledge through scouting and gut feel. Hoyer has that reputation. He also happens to be the same age, 35, as Josh Byrnes, when Moorad hired the latter in Arizona.

There will be plenty more available on this story, after it becomes completely official.

Rain Rain Go Away...

As I suspected, the rain would not subside and the Yankees/Angels game 6 was postponed until tomorrow night. Yankees manager Joe Girardi decided to stick with Andy Pettitte for the game, preferring to keep CC Sabathia on normal rest, if a game 7 becomes necessary. As far as the Angels are concerned, they'll stick with Joe Saunders, and now, with an extra day, Mike Scoiscia can come back with John Lackey in a game 7 situation. Rain is still in the forecast for New York on Sunday.

Phree Time for the Phillies...

How will this long layoff affect the Phillies? After finishing off the Dodgers in 5 games, the Phils have been off since October 21st. I guess you could argue it either way. One thought is that now Charlie Manuel can set up his rotation to best compete against the American League Champ. It also gives the Phillies a chance to get some much needed rest and be fully prepared when the World Series starts. The other school of thought is perhaps the Phillies have lost their momentum, and could have a hard time getting re-started once the WS starts. I say this, the Phillies are the defending champions, they've been here before, they have the experience and will be ready when the bell rings. Sometimes we like to over think these things, don't you think?

The Ocho?

I told you yesterday that Chad Ochocinco was fined by the NFL's uniform police for an improperly colored chin strap, now comes news that Ochocinco would rather report the news, than be the news. He's planning to form his own social news network on Twitter, and use his contacts around the league, to break stories, and bring his followers news on other teams. He has a name and a slogan already, the network is OCNN "The Ochocinco News Network", and the slogan, as he told the AP in a phone interview, "If I break it, you might as well believe it". Hey Chad, I'd like a t-shirt with that logo and saying on it please! Someone who is following Chad, please pass that request along will you please?

UFC...

Ok, I have to admit, I'm really not into the UFC thing, but I happened into a local establishment tonight, and watched the title bout between Lyoto Machida and Mauricio "Shogun" Rua won by Machida on a unanimous decision. I was amazed to see so many people of all different ages, races and gender getting into every punch, kick, block and connection. My jury is still out, but it did open my eyes to the popularity of the sport. Maybe I'll watch it again?

Alright that's it time for bed and a full day of NFL tomorrow...if you have the DirecTv package, make sure you check out my friend Andrew Siciliano on the Red Zone Channel, it's a great way to watch all the games, and he does a great job.

Later all...

Andy

Game 6 Maybe?

2009-10-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

The Angels stayed alive. It wasn't pretty but it was effective. If the Angels had lost, Mike Scioscia would have left himself open to a ton of criticism. From removing John Lackey in the 7th, to walking the potential tying run, Alex Rodriguez, intentionally in the 9th to face Hidecki Matsui. But it all worked out. The last move to me was the most curious. Scioscia was basically saying, we don't want A-Rod to tie the game, so I'll walk him to bring the go-ahead run to the plate. Interesting move to say the least. So the Angels live to see another game.

Not a good forecast in New York for tonight's game 6 of the ALCS. The Yankees certainly want to play, leading the series 3-2 over the Angels. Joe Saunders takes the ball for the Angels, facing playoff veteran Andy Pettitte. Now, Joe Girardi will have a decision to make if this game is rained out. Will he bring back CC Sabathia in a re-scheduled game 6 to try and close it out, knowing that Pettitte would be available to work a game 7 on an extra days rest? Worth paying attention to in my opinion.

New GM?

It's being widely reported in several online publications that Jed Hoyer will be the new Padres GM. There is nothing official from the team on this, so it's still speculation at this point. Hoyer has been the Assistant GM in Boston. I'll certainly let you know, via this space, twitter or my Facebook account once this move, or a different move becomes official.

They're back...

Bud Black will have his entire coaching staff back for the 2010 season. The only possible exception is Randy Ready. He interviewed for the vacant managerial opening in Houston last week. Ted Simmons, Glenn Hoffman, Rick Renteria, Darren Balsley, and Darrel Akerfelds are set to return for the upcoming season. These are very good coaches, and very good people. To me, each proved what they were made of this season, working with a very inexperienced bunch. Some managers, and coaches have a hard time dealing with young players, but not this staff. Guys, looking forward to working with you again in 2010. Wow that even rhymes.

It's Getting Ugly in LA...

Frank and Jamie McCourt's impending divorce took an interesting twist, with Frank, firing Jamie as the team's CEO. Mr. McCourt held meetings today with his GM, Ned Coletti and manager Joe Torre as they look forward to 2010. Coletti doesn't expect there to be any cutbacks to the payroll as he prepares for next season.

Lakers hoop it up in America's Finest City...

While out on the town tonight, I glanced at one of the TV's and saw a shot of the San Diego Sports Arena, as it played host to an NBA Pre-Season game for the Lakers. Denver won the game 119-105. Pretty cool though to see the NBA again in SD.

NFL Fines Ochocinco...

Watch out Chad Ochocinco the NFL is cracking down on you. Not for "tweeting", or for running your mouth, but for wearing the wrong colored chin strap. Yes, you heard me, the Bengals receiver will have to cough up $10,000 for wearing a black chin strap last week instead of white. The NFL's uniform police routinely had out these silly fines, for showing too much sock, or not enough, and even for the wrong colored towel hanging from uniform pants. In the words of Chad himself, "child please".

Good friends...

On a personal note, while vacationing this week, I had a chance tonight to catch up with five very good friends. I've known these guys in some cases, for 37 years, and others since the start of high school. I feel fortunate to have these type of people in my life. Guys it was great reliving the 'glory days' and it's always great to see you, make sure you visit me in SD soon.

That's it for tonight, I'm actually dog sitting for my brother now...and the pooch needs to go outside...

Andy

NLCS Has It's Phil, again

2009-10-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

Well it's over in the National League. The Philadelphia Phillies have repeated as NL champions and will get to defend their World Series Title. As NLCS MVP Ryan Howard described it, the Phillies used a total team effort to get past the Rockies and then the Dodgers. A good mix of offense, defense and pitching propelled the Phillies back into the World Series for the second straight season. The Phillies will now await their next challenge, probably the Yankees in an attempt to repeat as champions of baseball.

Tonight, Cole Hamels wasn't great, Vicente Padilla wasn't great, but the Phils offense was. Philadelphia led the NL in homers this season, and used 4 of them tonight to beat the Dodgers and win the series 4 games to 1.

Congratulations to Charlie Manuel and his team. Charlie is a great guy. I had the chance to meet him this year, thanks to one of the Phillies broadcasters Chris Wheeler. Charlie couldn't be a nicer human being. He wouldn't end our conversation. We chatted about everything from the weather in San Diego, to Tony Gwynn Jr's batting stance at home plate. Manuel is an old fashioned manager, in the respect that he gives his players the chance to just play. No micromanaging from him. He makes decisions from his gut, and believes in his players. If you don't believe me, just ask Brad Lidge. Manuel stuck with the struggling closer and Lidge has been a big part of the Phillies success this post-season.

ALCS...

John Lackey will be the last hope for the Angels, he'll start game 5 against AJ Burnett for the Yankees. New York has a 3-1 lead in the series. I can't see how the Yankees will blow a lead of this margin, they are just too good. It will certainly set up a good matchup of similarly built teams in the World Series if the Yanks can close things out.

Manager Joe Girardi revealed today, that Derek Jeter has been sick this entire series. Battling "a bug" as he put it. Just proves that Jeter is one of the guttiest players in baseball and is a true "captain" in every sense of the word. Alex Rodriguez will be named series MVP and how could he not? 5 homers in the post season, and 3 in the ALCS, it's a lock for A-Rod.

When I mentioned what a class guy Charlie Manuel was, ditto that for Yankees manager Joe Girardi. I got to know Joe very well as a catcher for the Chicago Cubs in his second tour of duty with the team. Girardi was a hard nosed player, and expected the most out of his teammates as well. I had the unique opportunity to interview Girardi after two tragic events in baseball, and in the US. He was gracious enough to grant a request when baseball resumed after the horrible events of September 11, 2001. Girardi was a voice of reason in that interview and I can remember the look in his eyes, it was a look of yes our country is wounded, but it's our job to give them a distraction. In essence he was saying, the game must go on to help heal the USA. Girardi also was kind enough to grant me some time after the Cubs/Cardinals game was cancelled in 2002 after the tragic death of Darryl Kile. The next night the two teams played and Girardi was my pre-game guest. He had to choke back tears several times during the interview. This is a man that understands life and understands what it is to be a major league baseball player and now a manager. I always appreciated his time and just being able to talk baseball with a guy like Joe Girardi.

If it is a match up of Phillies and Yankees, there will be two classy and deserving men at the helm of their respective teams.

Umps...I'm backed up!

Thankfully there were several other national media member to corroborate my thoughts on the horrible display of umpiring not only this post season but all year long. I'll refer you to an online article written by CBS Sportsline columnist Greg Doyel who agrees completely with me, that the umpiring has been atrocious! Thank you Greg!

Valentine again?

What is it about major league baseball GM's, hiring re-treds? I mean are the Indians seriously considering hiring Bobby Valentine? To me they should be looking for a new GM instead of a new manager. Mark Shapiro was the guy that in the last two years traded away an all star team of, CC Sabathia, Cliff Lee, Casey Blake, Ryan Garko and Victor Martinez. Casey Stengel himself couldn't have managed the Indians any better than Eric Wedge did. Wedge had nothing. Now Wedge is out of a job, and he may be replaced by Valentine. Wow, that's sad.

Senator Please...

Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) is continuing his crusade for a change to the BCS system. He wrote a letter to President Barrack Obama saying "Mr. President, as you have publicly stated on multiple occasions, the BCS system is in dire need of reform," as the Senator is calling for an antitrust probe of the BCS.

Again, while I agree that the NCAA should go to a college football playoff system, is this really the time for a Senator, who's home state school was dissed by the BCS, to spend even this much time on a problem so minute to our country? I ask the question.

Esteban OchoCinco?

There has been an interesting war of "tweets" going on this week between Chad Ochocinco and players on the Chicago Bears. On a conference call with the Chicago media today, Chad began the conversation by saying "hola" , that he was now Mexican and that his name was Esteban. Ok. He did have one hilarious "tweet", according to the Chicago Tribune Ochocinco told Bears linebacker Lance Briggs, that "I'll make Lance Briggs backpedal so much that his name will become Lance Armstrong". Good stuff. Could be an interesting game as the Bengals host the Bears this Sunday.

A Little Ice Time...

Just got back from a hockey game tonight. As I'm on vacation, I took in a Chicago Blackhawks game as they hosted the Vancouver Canucks. My brother and a friend of his attended and had a blast even though the home team lost 3-2. I know hockey isn't very popular in Southern California, but it's a great sport to view in person. HDTV has certainly helped in being able to watch a game and follow the puck on TV, but being there is awesome. Go to a Kings or Ducks game and check it out for yourself. Lots of fun too!

Alright, that's it for tonight...have a great one...

Andy

Looking Like Yankees and Phillies...

2009-10-20T21:45:00.000-07:00

CC Sabathia and Alex Rodriguez are proving to be a lethal combination to all that get in the Yankees' way. They combined again to help New York take a commanding 3-1 lead in the ALCS with a 10-1 win in Anaheim.

A-Rod hit his 5th homer of the post-season and third in as many games, matching the output of the Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson in the 1977 playoffs. The Yankee record belongs to Bernie Williams with 6 long balls in the 1996 post-season for the Yankees.

Sabathia moved to 3-0 with a 1.19 ERA in the playoffs with his 8 inning performance, while former Padre Chad Gaudin finished things up in the 9th.

Game 5 comes up Thursday in Anaheim.

Umps having tough post-season...

Is it me, or has the umpiring in the post-season been sub par? Tim McClelland, who really seems already retired, completely blew the call at third base. Jorge Posada had the right to the bag with two men occupying it, but as he stepped off, the runner from second, was tagged, then Posada who over ran the bag was tagged out. According to my knowledge of the rule book, that's a double play. According to McClelland's only one out was recorded. Hmm.

McClelland struck again, saying that Nick Swisher left early from 3rd on a tag play. Only thing is as the video replay clearly shows, McClelland was only watching the catch in center by Torrii Hunter and not the tag up. Talk about making an impact. WOW.

Add Dale Scott to the roster as well. Kazmir's pickoff play at second base, was as clearly an out as you can have. Yet Scott didn't see it that way.

Again not saying these plays determined the outcome of the game, but these guys are supposed to be the best in the world. That's why they make 6 figure salaries. That's why they can take vacations in the middle of the season. That's why they don't have to study video of the games they ump, like pro football refs (who are part time by the way) do, and college basketball officials do. It would only seem logical to want to get better at what you do. Right? How much time could it take to review a game after it's over? Or on their first class flight to the next city?Can't be much time. It's embarrassing to watch. The worst part is the arrogance of some of them as well. In the old days, a player could have a say, a chat with a man in blue, but today, you look at him cross-eyed and you are gone. What a shame.

What ever happened to getting it right? Why can't the umps get together and maybe overrule each other?

NLCS...

It could be all over in the NL as of tomorrow. The Phillies will try to close out the Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park. Cole Hamels goes for the home team against former Phillie Vicente Padilla for the Dodgers.

Ryan Howard will try to keep up his amazing post-season, he's recorded an RBI in all 7 of Philadelphia's playoff games. That is a single playoff record.

Stub-hub-bub

The ticket brokering service Stub-hub made a big time boo boo this week. The company sent an e-mail Monday offering fans, METS post-season tickets. METS playoff tickets. Cue up Jim Mora..."PLAYOFFS? PLAYOFFS? PLAYOFFS?"...the Mets finished the regular season 70-92 and were toast by mid-July. The company suffered an apparent e-mail glitch and sent out a retraction email apologizing for any confusion. PLAYOFFS? PLAYOFFS? PLAYOFFS?

Manny-reasons why Manny Being Manny isn't good...

Where was Manny Ramirez while the Phillies were rallying to beat the Dodgers Monday night?Let's go with multiple choice, A) Sitting on the bench rooting on his team, B) At the dugout railing yelling and screaming for his team to hold on, or C) In the shower. If you answered C, in the shower, you are correct! Ramirez was unaware of anything that happened in the bottom of the 9th. He was lifted for a defensive replacement and instead of staying with his team, he hit the showers. Great example isn't he?

Alright, that's it for tonight. Have a good one everybody...

Andy

Two Great Games, One, not so great...

2009-10-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

Jeff Mathis and Jimmy Rollins. The two are hardly ever mentioned in the same sentence, in fact maybe this is the first time ever. Today and tonight those two players, sent their teams to dramatic wins in their final at bat. For the Angels, it kept the faint pulse beating against the Yankees, and for the Phillies it may have just finished off the Dodgers.

The Angels needed this one badly. They are now down 2-1 in their series with the Yankees and still have some hope. Many are criticizing Yankees skipper Joe Girardi for losing his DH, when he put Jerry Hairston Jr in left, and then with Mariano Rivera scheduled to hit with two out and nobody on, pinch hit for the closer, leaving Girardi without the established presence in the 11th. Go ahead and criticize. I'm not going to though. I've learned over the years from such managers as Jim Riggleman, Don Baylor, Dusty Baker and now Bud Black that there's usually a darn good reason for making the moves they make. What might look curious to some, is never something left to chance. We never know if a guy is injured, or if a pitcher says "hey skip, my arm is toast, take me out", or some other underlying factor. Good managers never throw their players under the bus in public, most of the yelling and screaming is done in private, behind closed doors. Just something to think about.

How important was the 11 inning win? CC Sabathia is coming back to pitch game four for the Yankees after dominating the Angels in game one. Scott Kazmir will pitch for the Angels to try and pull them even in the series. Game 4 is tomorrow night.

Jimmy Rollins was lucky to escape the post game celebration with his life. When did it become custom to try and tackle and beat up the hero of the game? I remember in 2007 when Kevin Kouzmanoff snuck a single through the right side of the infield to beat the Rockies, Brian Giles almost took Kouz's head off! It's supposed to be a non-contact sport!

Rollins two run double/triple off Jonathan Broxton capped a mad comeback to put the Phillies on the brink of heading back to the World Series. Philadelphia now has a 3-1 lead in the series, and it may not have to go back to LA at all.

Broxton really has nobody to blame but himself. He throws hard, but once in a while, and yes Padres fans you've seen him give up 5 run leads on a couple of occasions, he just looses his command. He walked pinch hitter Matt Stairs, hit Carlos Ruiz and though it may not sound like a big deal, it turned the line up over and allowed the tough part of the Phillies order to come up and tonight, come through in a 5-4 win at Citizens Bank Park.

I think one of the lines of the night came from Rollins just after he won the game for the Phillies...I'll use quotes, but I'm paraphrasing here, "I'm not looking to hit a home run there, I knew I just had to barrel one up and when a guy is throwing 99 MPH, and you hit it square, it's going to go". What a refreshing approach to a critical situation in a game.

The NLCS will take tomorrow off and resume Wednesday in Philadelphia.

High Hopes...

In case you were wondering, if you were still watching the NLCS during the post-game, and heard a song playing in the background at the ballpark, I'll tell you what it was. Since the passing of legendary hall of fame broadcaster Harry Kalas, the Phillies either during the 7th inning stretch or after a win, will play his rendition of "High Hopes", that Harry sung at a banquet before his induction at Cooperstown. We heard it for the first time, in the Phils first home game after his passing. The entire series they played it instead of "Take Me Out To The Ballgame" and to hear all those people in the stands, singing along with Kalas, sent goosebumps up my arms and shivers down my neck each and every time I heard it. Same tonight.

Low Point...

Ok, I mentioned two good games (baseball) and one bad one. Unfortunately that one was the Chargers/Broncos game. Not sure what happened tonight. I actually did watch quite a bit of the game, while switching back and forth to baseball. I did find it hard to believe that LaDanian Tomlinson was not in the game, but on the sidelines during a critical short yardage situation. Why? He seemed quite "irked" by the decision as well. The Chargers failed to measure up to the Broncos tonight. Eddie Royal's two returns for touchdowns, Carrell Buckhalter and Knoshown Moreno's 1-2 tandem rushing the ball, and Kyle Orton, who is leading the Denver team to a 6-0 record. They outplayed the Chargers at the Q. To me, the Chargers still are a more talented team, but sometimes effort and determination beat talent. I'll leave it at that.

Parting shot...

To Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) and Rep. Joe Barton (R-Texas), I say, "GIVE ME A BREAK". The trio is vowing to fight to kill the BCS system and put in place a more fair post season system for college football. I agree with that because the BCS is about a middle initial too long, but for government officials to get involved? Come on. Hmm, wonder if it's because its Utah, Hawaii and Texas, three schools that have gotten less than a fair shake from the BCS in it's present form? I would think that the taxpayers from those states, would rather see their representatives fight for other things, like help for the economy and foreclosures and other real life things going on. Just my thoughts. Don't want to get into a political debate but this seems sort of stupid.

Ok, that's it for me tonight! Enjoy!

Andy

Real-LEE good...

2009-10-18T22:17:00.000-07:00

While one former Indian is getting a lot of the spotlight in the ALCS (Sabathia) another former Indian and CY Young winner, Cliff Lee is mowing em down for the Phillies. Exhibit A, a victory in a Phillies 11-0 whitewashing of the Dodgers in game 3 of the NLCS. Philadelphia now takes a 2-1 lead in the series.

Citizen's Bank proved again to be the homer haven it's been all year for the home team. Jayson Werth the former Dodger hit the first of Philadelphia's two homers and it came with his team already up 2-0. Werth's two run shot made it an early 4-0 lead off of Hiroki Kuroda, who just didn't have it after a long layoff due to injury. Shane Victorino also went deep, and Ryan Howard tripled in a pair in the lopsided win. Lee has been the difference for the Phillies, this post season, he's 2-0 with an era of 0.74. He struck out 10 and didn't walk a batter in a dominant 8 innings of work. The series continues Monday night in Philadelphia as former Phillie and Padre Randy Wolf goes for the Dodgers against Joe Blanton for the home team. This is basically a must win game for the Dodgers.

ALCS...

This series also resumes Monday, with an afternoon game in Anaheim. Joe Saunders gets the ball for the Angels against Andy Pettitte for the Yankees. These two teams needed a day off after the 13 inning marathon in the Bronx the other night. The Yankees have a 2-0 lead in the series.

Surprising reception...

I don't know about you, but I was very surprised that Randy Wolf was booed as he was in being introduced before tonight's game in Philadelphia. Wolf began his career with the Phillies and was a fan favorite. A group known as the "wolf pack" formed, a bunch of guys, who were related, began donning wolf masks every time Randy would pitch. Wolf became friends with the members of the family of wolves, and even attended the funeral of one of the wolf pack a few years ago. I'm sure that Wolf will have a mix of emotions going on, knowing he's pitching for his hometown Dodgers, in the city he cut his teeth in the big leagues, trying to ensure that the series will be coming back to LA. That's a lot for even me to digest.

Not surprising was the reception for Vicente Padilla and former player/manager Larry Bowa. They were both booed as well. But former Phillie, Jim Thome received a warm reception from the fans.

Hoodie is no goodie...

I couldn't believe my eyes while watching the Patriots crush the Titans in a blinding snowstorm in Foxboro. What was more amazing, the final score of 59-0. Tom Brady threw six touchdown passes, including 5 in the 2nd quarter. Here's where the "Hoodie" did his best Steve Spurrier impersonation. Up 45-0 at halftime, it wasn't enough. He sent Tom Brady back out, to throw that elusive 6th TD pass against a team that had clearly given up many touchdowns prior. I don't think the Patriots are going to have to worry about that 5th or 6th tie breaker of point differential to get into the playoffs. Why embarrass a team that much? What does it prove? Is it too good for the ego to pass up? Give me a break. Way to go Bill Belichick, you are just the best coach ever. How is that for your ego?

Phillies bail out the Eagles...

Thankfully for the Eagles, the Phillies won tonight, otherwise, I hate to think what might be happening on the airwaves at a station like WIP in Phily. The Eagles went on the road and actually LOST to the Raiders 13-9. How about the fact that the Phillies outscored the Eagles and gave up less points too. Ouch.

Monday Night Lights...

Time for the Chargers to prove once and for all that they are the better team than the Broncos. Denver's 5-0 start has many in the Mile High City thinking this is a Superbowl team. The Broncos are good, they have a good 1-2 punch in Buckhalter and Moreno at RB, Brandon Marshall is very good and Kyle Orton is having a great start, but it's only 5 games. The Chargers need to step it up defensively, get some pressure on Orton and cause some turnovers. Defensive Coordinator Ron Rivera knows Kyle Orton and his weaknesses from their time together with the Bears, hopefully he'll exploit those weaknesses Monday night. I'm still predicting a Chargers win at the Q.

Alright, big day in sports tomorrow....enjoy it!

Andy

Jack In The Bronx...

2009-10-17T22:21:00.000-07:00

That's what "they" are calling this New Yankee Stadium and it's slightly longer than Williamsport dimensions. Ok, before you say it, I know, I know, both teams play there and have the same chances, but come on the Yanks get to play 81 games in the bandbox that replaced the band leader. I also realize this is not why the Yankees won the game, or why the Angels lost the game but it still makes one think.

Key Moments...

For the Angels: Great job by Darren Oliver, the 38 year old lefty (that was pointed out a few times by Joe Buck) to pitch around an absolutely HORRIBLE, potentially game changing call by 2nd base umpire Jerry Layne. The "in the neighborhood" play is there to prevent 2b's and ss's from getting killed with guys sliding into them trying to break up a double play. Way to get your name in the paper (or in this case the blog) Jerry, you were almost "Denkinger-ized". No excuse for that. None.

Maicer Izturis got caught up in the moment thinking he could turn two on a tough play to his left. Get the sure out and live to fight another batter and see what happens. Sometimes players get to thinking "spectacular play" rather than the routine play, or in this case, a sure out.

Vladimir Guerrero left a small village of his teammates on base. I believe the final count was 8. That to me, more than anything contributed to the loss for the Angels.

For the Yankees: What can you say about Alex Rodriguez? There are many who feel as though A-Rod should have been walked, but a lot of managers will tell you it's not good baseball to put on the potential tying run to get to the potential winning run at the plate. The problem with the Rodriguez at bat in my opinion was a poor 0-2 pitch by Brian Fuentes. If you get A-Rod down 2 strikes, you better miss big or expect what happened. #13 has come up large for the Yankees this post-season, and his first row homer tied the ballgame.

Jerry Hairston Jr (older brother of former Padre Scott Hairston) came through for Joe Girardi with a solid single to start the 13th. The Yankees are fairly lucky it ended in 13, since the bench was getting thin, and so was the pen. Did you see who was up? A clean shaven, hardly recognizable blast from Padre past, Chad Gaudin.

So now the Yankees head to Anaheim up 2-0 in the best of 7 ALCS. Game 3 will feature lefty Andy Pettitte for the Yankees, and Jared Weaver for the Angels.

NLCS shifts to Philly...

Philadelphia will be the scene Sunday for game three of the NLCS, with Cliff Lee facing Hiroki Kiroda. The latter hasn't pitched in a while, and has had a tough season. Kiroda spent a bunch of time on the DL, especially after being hit on the head by a line drive in Arizona. His most recent injury though was a bad disc in his neck. We'll have to wait and see what he's got in the tank. It's going to be a chilly one in Philly, temps expected in the mid 40's at game time.

Technology front runners...

The Dodgers are doing a great job of keeping their fans in the moment. The team website (www.dodgers.com) is filled with celebrity 'tweets' and today features a video tour of Philadelphia by former Padre Mark Sweeney who is now an assistant coach with LA. Sweeney's commentary is good stuff, you should check it out.

Female GM?

Numerous reports have Dodgers assistant GM, Kim Ng (ing) interviewing with Padres brass today. She would be the first female GM in baseball. Read more here at the Padres team site. Corey Brock reported a couple of weeks ago, that Jeff Moorad planned to interview at least one minority candidate.

Alright, that's pretty much what I've got for you tonight...enjoy!

Andy

Yankees Use A CC Rider...

2009-10-16T20:20:00.000-07:00

On a cold night in the Bronx, the Yankees used their horse, CC Sabathia in a 4-1 win over the Angels in game one of the ALCS. It's not a shock that the Yankees defended the home field, however to me, it is a shock the way the Angels lost. Committing errors. Even Torrii Hunter committed one in the game, just his second error in 2009. Hunter is such a good centerfielder that since 1998, that was his 30th career error. The three team errors led to a couple of unearned runs, and that spelled doom for the Angels.

Either way it was going to be a tough chore to get to a "locked in" CC Sabathia. He went 8 dominant innings, and is proving to be quite worthy of the lucrative deal he signed in the off season. He's showing why they were crying in Lake Erie when the Indians traded him to the Brewers. Sabathia almost single handedly led the Brewers to the playoffs, but since he was being used seemingly every day he ran out of gas. He then ran out of Milwaukee and signed the "big bucks, no whammy's deal" with the Yankees. How nice must it be for Joe Girardi to throw Sabathia for 8, then turn to Mariano Rivera in the 9th? Trivia: What does CC stand for? I'll answer that later in the blog!

Game 2...

Another one of the Yankees big money free agents will go in tomorrow's game two, AJ Burnett facing the Angels, Joe Saunders.

NLCS Game 2...

That's the way the Dodgers have been winning games all year long. Andre Ethier is usually in the middle of it as well. Such was the case today in LA, when the Dodgers evened up the NLCS with a 2-1 win over the Phillies. Both starters were dealing (pardon the cliche) in the game. Vicente Padilla, an unwanted man in Texas, found a home in LA, going 7 1/3, while striking out 6. He gave up a homer to Ryan Howard for the only Phillies run. Pedro Martinez was his usual post-season self, going 7 scoreless innings while striking out 3...

Crazy 8...

Then there was the 8th inning...and a typical Dodger rally. Here's the official play-by-play since it's too crazy to recap myself...(courtesy of CBS Sportsline.com)

DODGERS 8TH
Chan Ho Park pitching:
Casey Blake:	Strike looking, Ball, Ball, Blake singled to left
Juan Pierre ran for Casey Blake.
Ronnie Belliard:	Pickoff attempt to first, Bunt foul, Pickoff attempt to first, Belliard reached on bunt single to first, Pierre to second.
Russell Martin:	Ball, Ball, Ball, Strike looking, Bunt foul, Martin reached on fielder's choice to third, Pierre to third, Belliard out at second,Pierre scored on Utley's throwing error
Jim Thome hit for Hong-Chih Kuo.
Scott Eyre relieved Chan Ho Park.
Jim Thome:	Pickoff attempt to first, Ball, Thome singled to right, Martin to third
Juan Castro ran for Jim Thome.
Ryan Madson relieved Scott Eyre.
Rafael Furcal:	Ball, Foul, Ball, Ball, Furcal walked, Castro to second.
Matt Kemp:	Foul, Foul, Ball, Kemp struck out swinging.
J.A. Happ relieved Ryan Madson.
Andre Ethier:	Ball, Foul, Foul, Foul, Ball, Ball, Ethier walked, Martin scored, Castro to third, Furcal to second.
Chad Durbin relieved J.A. Happ.
Manny Ramirez:	Ramirez popped out to third.
End of Inning (2 Runs, 3 Hits, 1 Error)

Jonathan Broxton would then come on in the 9th and go 1-2-3 and even the series at 1-1. It was a much needed victory for the Dodgers with the next 3 games to be played in much chillier Philadelphia.

Game 3...

We have to wait until SUNDAY for game 3. Unbelievable. It's going to be Hiroki Kuroda going for the Dodgers, against another former Indian, lefty Cliff Lee for the Phillies. I still like the Phillies in this series, they play great at home, and their pitching still makes me a believer.

McCourt Case...

I'm not a Dodger fan by any stretch of the imagination. But I am rooting for them in this respect. I certainly hope that the impending divorce of owner Frank McCourt and wife Jamie McCourt. Padre fans know already that this can and will affect ownership and play on the field if it gets out of hand. At first glance, it's not looking good, consider this from today's Los Angeles Times:

Dennis Wasser, who represents Jamie McCourt, on Thursday rebutted claims that Frank McCourt is the club's sole owner.

"We disagree," Wasser said. "We are confident that, if the ownership issue must be adjudicated, the Dodgers will be determined to be community property, owned 50% by each of the McCourts."

But Marshall Grossman, who represents Frank McCourt, said he has documents to back up his assertion that his client is the sole owner.

"Anyone reading them will readily see that Mr. McCourt's ownership is 100%," said Grossman, who declined to release the documents.

Wasser said he was unaware of any such documents and said he knew of no reason why California's community property law would not apply.

This could get ugly LA, enjoy this playoff run...

Odd Pair...

Tommy Lasorda and Kobe Bryant were seen sitting together, in Tommy's seats right next to the Dodgers dugout. LaSorda who is an active Twitterer, tweeted about Kobe today: @TommyLasorda may not know this but Kobe bleeds Dodger Blue just like I do. And we both speak Italian!

Final Musings...

Full disclosure, I'm on vacation now for a couple of weeks, and will certainly try to update the blog as much as humanly possible. Please forgive me if there are a few lapses over this period of time. I'm visiting family out of town and it's great to see them after a long baseball season. Looking forward to getting back to SD though and the start of USD's basketball season which tips off November 13 at the Jenny Craig Pavilion against Stanford.

Have a great night!

Andy

TRIVIA ANSWER: CC Sabathia's full name is...Carsten Charles Sabathia

Game one to the Phillies...

2009-10-15T21:11:00.000-07:00

It came down to my X Factors in Philadelphia's game one win at Los Angeles 8-6.

The Dodger X Factor was their starting pitchers, and tonight Clayton Kershaw was looking pretty good until the 5th inning. He ran out of gas or something, and issued walk after walk and when the inning was over, his team was down 5-1. The big blow was a three run homer by catcher Carlos Ruiz. Kershaw only gave up 4 hits in his 4.2 innings, but walked 5 and gave up the five earned runs. The Dodgers clearly had a shot in this game, because the Phils starter, San Diego's Cole Hamels was not on his game either. He gave up the two run homer to Manny (would and did) Ramirez to make it 5-4 after 5 innings.

The Dodgers normally reliable bullpen wasn't tonight, George Sherrill issued back to back walks in the 8th, and then Raul Ibanez launched the Phillies second 3 run homer of the game, to make it 8-4. Give the Dodgers credit though, they battled to try and get back into it and pulled to within 8-6 going to the 9th.

That's when the Phillies X Factor, Brad Lidge came in and closed it out. The Phils will go as far as he can take them in this series and in game one, Lidge got it done and saved the 8-6 win for the Phillies.

Game two comes up tomorrow afternoon at Dodger Stadium. Vicente Padilla for LA, against Pedro Martinez for the Phillies.

NLCS Notes...

Boomer Wells mentioned in on the TBS Post Game show, and I was thinking the same thing during the game, that Torre really could have used Jeff Weaver in a game like tonight. Kershaw struggled, and Weaver could have eaten up some innings. Weaver was left off the roster after being sent home with flu-like symptoms along with a fever.

Former Padre, Dodger, etc, Chan Ho Park saved the bacon for the Phillies tonight, throwing a scoreless inning to pick up the rookie Antonio Bastardo. Park was blazing his fast ball at 96 MPH!

I didn't see it or hear it (thank goodness), but why, why, why, why, why, why, did Billy Ray Cyrus do the National Anthem tonight? "Achy Breaky Heart" was a hit in 1992, what has he done (besides father Miley Cyrus) to warrant a spotlight performance like that?

Speaking of the National Anthem, I read, that the Dodgers long time organist Nancy Bea is going to sign a 3 year deal to keep her tickling the ivories through 2012 which would be her 25th season with the Dodgers. I don't know about you, but I love hearing an organist at a ballpark. Not sure why they seemingly go hand in hand, but you can't beat it.

ALCS...

What a great pitching matchup in game one, CC Sabathia, a 19 game winner for the Yankees against John Lackey for the Angels. It's going to be a cold night in the Bronx (no joke) for the start of the first game of this series.

Sabathia has struggled in his career against the Angels, he's just 5-7, 4.72 in 14 games started. But this is a dominating pitcher, especially with the weather being what it will be. I still think the Angels will find a way to win this series, but it will be tough tomorrow against the big fella Sabathia.

More on the ALCS tomorrow after the game...

Random Musings...

Pitch Trax is just killing the umpires in the post season. Randy Marsh, who many players consider one of the finest umps in the game, missed call after call after call in this one. His strike zone was erratic to say the least. I hope the umpires union contract won't be decided by an arbitrator, because all they'll have to show is the replays of these games with Pitch Trax.

Question. Is your fantasy football season over, when your team is 1-4 after the first 5 weeks? I'm getting the sinking feeling that my team is TOAST. No consistency and a bad draft really did me in this time around. I'm picking up players off the waiver wire as fast as anybody in the league, but it isn't helping. I enjoy playing and it gives me a great reason to camp out in front of the TV on Sunday's and watch more football than one human should be allowed.

Chargers/Broncos on Monday night at the "Q". Let's hope the Broncos leave the Padres '72 Jerseys in Denver. This is a "must" game for the Chargers. Denver has gotten off to a fantastic start behind Kyle Orton. But if push ever came to shove, I'd take Phillip Rivers every day, and twice on Sunday. The Bolts need to force the issue on defense, get some pressure on Orton and force him to throw short and to the running backs. I know there were a bunch of changes at Charger camp this week, so let's see how they work out. Early prediction is the Chargers rise to the occasion under the bright lights of Monday Night Football, and win the game 27-17.

There is no truth to the rumor that the Broncos are flying to town on that flying saucer thing the kid in Fort Collins let go from his back yard. How sad is it that I (along with probably many of you) sat and watched the CNN coverage of this Mylar (know more about that product now than I did before) Balloon traveling 60 miles from it's home? Thank goodness the 6 year old wasn't inside and is ok. Hey Falcon Henne and family, your 15 minute clock is ticking, and it's counting down by 5's.

That's it for now, have a great night!

Andy

Let's Get The Show On The Road...

2009-10-14T16:23:00.000-07:00

To me the worst thing about the MLB Playoffs, is having to wait so long in between series. I realize that the schedule is such because of team travel and all that, but LET'S GO ALREADY! I'm so used to having a game every night, or nearly every night, that my A.D.D. is starting to kick in and I'm ready to watch some baseball again....

We'll get the NLCS first, in a repeat of last year's match up the Dodgers and the Phillies. The only thing different is the Dodgers have the home field advantage this time around. Not sure we could ask for a better pitching match up in Game 1, two young talented lefties, as Rancho Bernardo's Cole Hamels goes for the Phillies against 22 year old Clayton Kershaw for the Dodgers. Hamels is the reigning World Series MVP, and even though his season hasn't gone like last year, it's hard to argue against his post season experience. Hamels was 4-0, with a 1.80 ERA in 5 post season starts a year ago. Kershaw, out of Dallas, Texas and Highland Park High School, the same school that produced the Padres Chris Young, pitched well in his start in the NLDS against the Cardinals, but didn't figure into the decision.

X Factors...

For the Dodgers, I believe it's the starting rotation. Not a short series, can't ride 2 hot pitchers to the World Series. The Dodgers will need effective starts from the lefties, and then hope somebody like Vicente Padilla can step up.

For the Phillies, the choice to me is obvious. It's Brad Lidge. The biggest question begs to be asked, is Lidge back after picking up 2 saves against the Rockies? The Phillies have the offense, the defense and starting pitching to get back to the World Series, but will the bullpen be a help or hinderance to that goal?

Lineups...

From the Dodgers official Twitter page, @DodgertownUSA, we present the LA starting lineup for game one...1. Furcal - SS, 2. Ethier - RF, 3. Ramirez - LF, 4. Kemp - CF, 5. Blake - 3B, 6. Loney - 1B, 7. Belliard - 2B, 8. Martin - C, 9. Kershaw - P.

Don't have the Phillies lineup yet, but I'll try to find it out for you soon.

More Musings...

Congratulations to Cole Hamels and his wife, on the birth of their first child, Caleb Michael Hamel, delivered Friday.

If you are looking for an amusing, yet honest take on what it's like to be a Phillies relief pitcher, check out Scott Eyre's blog http://scotteyre.mlblogs.com/ Scott is a friend from our Chicago days, and a funny guy. Give him a read.

The Dodgers also announced their rotation for the series (again courtesy @DodgertownUSA), Kershaw, Padilla, Kuroda, and then former Padre Randy Wolf. Kuroda had been out with a disc problem in his neck. It was reported that he threw a five inning, 50 pitch game in Arizona today, then threw 25 more pitches in the bullpen.

Leadoff men...

How important is a good leadoff hitter? Here's the list of the final four team's leadoff hitters:

Jimmy Rollins - PHI, Rafael Furcal - LAD, Chone Figgins - LAA, and Derek Jeter - NYY. Pretty impressive stuff.

A look at more from the NLCS tomorrow and a quick preview of the ALCS then as well...

Til then....

Andy

More Padres Roster Moves...

2009-10-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

This from the Padres official release today:

The San Diego Padres today announced they have outrighted right-handed pitcher Josh Geer, outfielder Drew Macias, infielder Luis Rodriguez and catcher Eliezer Alfonzo to Triple-A Portland. Rodriguez and Alfonzo have elected to become free agents.

Geer, 26, appeared in 19 games (17 starts) for the Padres this season, going 1-7 with a 5.96 ERA (68 ER/102.2 IP). He made his Big League debut with San Diego last season and has gone 3-8 with a 5.28 ERA (76 ER/129.2 IP) in 24 games (22 starts) over two Major League campaigns.

Macias, 26, hit .197 (15-for-76) in 51 games for the Padres, collecting six doubles, one home run, seven RBI and eight runs scored. Since making his Major League debut for the Padres in 2007, he has hit .198 (19-for-96) with six doubles, three home runs, 12 RBI and 11 runs scored in 69 games.

Rodriguez, 29, played in 93 games for the Padres in his second year in San Diego. He hit .202 (42-for-208) with six doubles, two home runs, 16 RBI and 18 runs scored. Over parts of five Major League seasons with the Minnesota Twins (2005-07) and Padres (2008-09), he has hit .243 (208-for- 855) with 36 doubles, four triples, eight home runs, 66 RBI and 90 runs scored in 363 games.

Alfonzo, 30, began the season at Triple-A Portland and appeared in 37 games for San Diego, hitting .175 (20-for-114) with three doubles, two home runs, eight RBI and six runs scored. Over parts of four Major League seasons with the Giants (2006-08) and Padres (2009), he has gone 113-for-475 (.238) with 22 doubles, three triples, 15 home runs, 54 RBI and 38 runs scored in 155 games.

Not much in the way of surprises here...thought Macias had an outside chance at sticking at least on the 40 man roster. He has pretty good speed, a little pop in his bat and is a good defender. Luis Rodriguez was a good soldier in 2009. Once he got hurt in Chicago, it was pretty much the end for him. Cabrera came off the DL and didn't miss a start at shortstop. Rodriguez never complained or made waves. He's a good pro. Geer had trouble all season with command. It's hard to explain after seeing his numbers, but this kid does know how to pitch. With limited velocity, he's had to learn the art of pitching, not throwing. We'll see maybe in Spring Training if he's gotten the command aspect of his game back or not.

Stay tuned....

Andy

And then there were 4...

2009-10-12T20:11:00.000-07:00

Baseball's version of the final four is now set, and the run to the World Series should be an interesting one. I offer you this breakdown.

NLCS...Philadelphia/Los Angeles

The Dodgers played a great NLDS series in sweeping the Cardinals. I admit again, I never saw that result coming. I wonder now, how the LA pitching will match up in a longer series. It came to haunt them last year after taking care of the Cubs in 3, then having to face the Phillies and their potent offense. I will say this, the Dodgers have found a way to get things done all year long. They managed to not only stay afloat but actually increase their lead in the west without Manny Ramirez for 50 games, and just seem to have that ability to surprise.

The best thing that may have, and I stress MAY HAVE, come out of the Phillies series win over the Rockies, was a renewed confidence in Brad Lidge, and Lidge's confidence in himself. We know the Phillies have the offense, and starting pitching, but the bullpen has been an achilles heal with Lidge and Ryan Madson. I can't help but root for Charlie Manuel, a good old fashioned "baseball guy" who got the giant monkey off his back winning it all last season. Rollins, Victorino, Utley, Howard, Ibanez and Werth is a formidable 1-6 that not many teams can match up with.

Bottom Line:

Here's why. I would still take Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels, Joe Blanton and JA Happ, over the 4 that the Dodgers will likely send out. Randy Wolf, Clayton Kershaw, Vicente Padilla, and either Chad Billingsley or Hiroki Kuroda (who's neck injury is healing) is good, but not as good or better than the Phillies 4. Also remember, that when you play games this late in the year in cold weather cities it comes down to starting pitching. I give that edge to the Phillies. The Dodgers will keep the series competitive, it's hard to argue that their bullpen as a whole isn't better than Philadelphia's. It's also fair to compare the late inning heroics that the Dodgers have managed, especially in walk off wins at home to the magic of the Phillies. In the end though, I believe that the Phillies are the better team and will advance.

My Pick: Phillies win in 6

ALCS...Los Angeles/New York

The two best teams made it through the Division round and now await each other in the league championship series. Is it me or do the Angels seem like a team of "destiny"? A team record 47 come from behind wins including the improbable 2 out comeback against Jonathan "Riverdance" Papelbon and the Red Sox. Then there's the Yankees, playing in a New Yankee Stadium which has been referred to as the "Jack in the Bronx" with all the homers being hit there, clicking on all cylinders. Big names, Jeter, Rodriguez, Teixeira and Posada have come through for them the entire year. Enough pitching and an emerging bullpen anchored by a sure fire hall of famer (but not the best closer ever as he's been described, what a show of disrespect to the greatest of all time, Trevor Hoffman) Mariano Rivera will make them a favorite.

Bottom line:

It's a great match up. Two very classy managers, both former big league catchers, in Mike Scioscia and Joe Girardi and two fine franchises over the years will battle it out. If the game one pitching matchup is John Lackey against CC Sabathia, all I can say is WOW. The Yankees have been the best team all year long, they have just about everything a team could want, pitching, power, some speed and defense, which makes them tough to beat. I think though that the Angels are equally as good. They had a terrible tragedy to deal with and lost a bit of focus after the sudden passing of Nick Adenhart, but they regrouped and climbed atop the West standings and never looked back. I think the Angels are the team to beat here. They may not have the names, but they have the talent. Torrii Hunter has been a stabilizing force, Chone Figgins creates challenges with his speed, Vladimir Guerrero is one of the best pure hitters in the game, and the surrounding cast of guys like Kendry Morales, Juan Rivera and Erick Aybar to name a few will get it done.

My pick: Angels in 7

Well there you go, agree or disagree, those are my thoughts. Your comments as always are welcome. I just hope that these two series are good and competitive!

Random Musings...

I know hockey isn't a popular sport in Southern California, but where I grew up (Chicago an "original 6" city) it's big time. I have to give a shout out to my beloved Chicago Blackhawks, who were down 5-0 in the first period, and fought back to win the game 6-5 in OT. The biggest comeback in team history. Ok, stop laughing and keep reading....

It was a pretty good Monday Night Football game too, I'm sure the viewership was down a bit from last week, for obvious reasons. But a hard fought game with the Dolphins scoring with under 10 seconds to beat the Jets. From the little I've seen of Mark Sanchez, he's going to be a good QB in the NFL.

Just wondering, if Brett Favre retires (AGAIN) what will ESPN do? Is he the face of the NFL? I mean come on ESPN, there are other good stories out there, and they deserve some coverage as well.

Alright, more tomorrow...have a great night!

Andy

Bonus Blog....

2009-10-11T23:16:00.000-07:00

Just finished watching the Phillies and the Rockies game, and true to form, an exciting game played at Coors Field. Brad Lidge made it interesting of course, but get's Tulowitzki to pop out to end it.

I hate to keep doing this, but the umpires once again decided this game. In the 9th, both Jerry Meals and Ron Kulpa blew the same play. Chase Utley at the plate, he swings, the ball spins funny, hits him in the shin (in the batters box) then appears to roll up his arm into fair territory. He runs. Huston Street's throw to 1st appears to pull Todd Helton off the bag at first. Upon further review (from my eyes) Helton scraped the bag with his shoe top. 0 for 2 for the umps on that one. Not a shock. The TBS (only on HD) Pitch Trax is also exposing these umps, for their lack of consistency in calling strikes. Will something be done?

Overall, even though three of the four division series resulted in sweeps, I think the games have been exciting. Lots of drama, and "game within the game" stuff. That is why I say, baseball is the best game going. There is strategy on every single play. Pitch selection, swing or take, take the extra base and so on and so on...

Ok, that's it for me tonight, my eyes are bloodshot. I seriously took about a 1 hour break earlier this evening, because I was getting fried. I watched the Red Sox/Angels starting around 9:30 this morning and now, am wrapping it up with the Rockies/Phillies.

Good night all...

Andy

Sports Overload Sunday....

2009-10-11T17:12:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year, but it's really testing my technology limits! Let me explain. At one point today (now pay attention), I was watching, 4 football games, a baseball game and the President's Cup ALL AT THE SAME TIME!!! It was very interesting. Here's how: Through the marvel of satellite TV technology I watched 3 football games on my laptop, while enjoying the Red Sox/Angels on my TV, with the President's Cup featured in the picture in picture window. Is it any wonder I'm single?

I've got to tell you that maybe the greatest invention ever is the Red Zone Channel, which features a good friend Andrew Siciliano taking you from game to game when they get interesting and when a team is in the...duh, RED ZONE. Great feature to have when you have trouble focusing like I did today. Andrew does a great job as well.

Watching the Chiefs/Cowboys game today, I listened intently to the color analyst and former NFL Coach Brian Billick. He's good. I hated him as a coach, but he knows his stuff. Listening to him explain the subtle rules of the game and why coaches don't challenge certain plays and do on others was very interesting stuff. Stay in the booth Brian, and they won't be able to make anymore of those Coors Light commercials at your expense!

Congrats to the US team in the President's Cup, good to see the rather easy win over the "Internationals" in San Francisco...

Then there was Jonathan Papelbon, the extremely cocky closer of the Boston Red Sox blowing the game in the 9th. After watching his antics in 2007 (remember his lame "River Dance"?), I couldn't help but pump my fist when he gagged the game today. The Angels are a far better team anyway, and deserved to win the series, but come on you know you did the same thing watching Papelbon-bon give it up. Didn't you? Also serves TBS right for allowing the Red Sox TV crew to do that series. Network impartiality, ever hear of it?

More Beantown Bashing...

Sorry to pick on the New England area today, but I also found it nice to see the Broncos and their coach Josh McDaniels beat the "hoodie" in overtime. By the way, as somebody pointed out on Twitter today, why were the Broncos wearing the Padres 1972 jerseys out there today? I've heard of the NFL's throwback weekends, but watching those uni's go up and down the field, it may as well have been an NFL throw UP weekend.

That's about all I've got for you now...MAYBE more later after Twins/Yankees, Rockies/Philies and Indianapolis/Tennessee...

Andy

What Do I Know???

2009-10-10T20:33:00.000-07:00

So, the Dodgers do it again. Sweeping another National League Central team right out of the playoffs. It’s amazing to me. I mentioned on our last few broadcasts that I expected the Cardinals to get far into the MLB Playoffs, for 4 reasons. Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright, Joel Pineiro and Albert Pujols. Cue the buzzer: WRONG!

Proving once again you never know who might turn out to be a hero for your team in the playoffs. Can you say, Vicente Padilla? Or maybe Mark Loretta? Seriously? I thought that Tony LaRussa was a genius. I thought Matt Holliday would make an impact, not implode. Wow.

My theory of which teams are successful in the playoffs is still treading water. The Cardinals were the first team to clinch in the NL, and finished the regular season a paltry 1 and 9, and seemed without life in the series. No meaningful games down the stretch. No success in the playoffs?

Ok, in reality, it doesn’t help when your team goes 4 for 30 (.133) with runners in scoring position. I was under the impression that the acquisitions of Holliday and Mark DeRosa were supposed to cure that ill? Nope.

The early exit by the Cardinals this year, by the Cubs last year, does beg a question. Why is the first round a best of 5? I realized part of the answer as I was typing the question, since the Rockies and Phillies were SNOWED out in Denver. But come on, why give a team an advantage in the first round that otherwise (as the Dodgers proved against the Phils last year) may not advance? The answer my friends may be as difficult to figure out as “how many licks it takes to the get to the center of a tootsie roll tootsie pop”. Crunch.

In thinking it over, I can’t really say that I’m sorry LaRussa and company are gone. So, congratulations to the Dodgers, who now have to wait out the winner of the Phillies and Rockies series.

I do feel sorry for Mark DeRosa, who has now been swept out of the playoffs in the first round, 3 consecutive years (2007, 2008 Cubs; 2009 Cardinals). He’ll be a much sought after free agent this off season.

Cuzzi didn’t see it…

Kudos to Left Field line umpire Phil Cuzzi for keeping up the fine tradition of umpiring we’ve seen all year long. With the play right in front of him and the ball a) tipping off the glove of Melky Cabrera heading toward the line, and b) clearly falling fair regardless, Cuzzi blew it. What would have been a double for Joe Mauer turned into a single, and although the outcome of the game may or may not have been affected, I certainly think it was.

Why have the extra ump, if he’s going to get “screened”, which was the excuse given. Screened by what exactly? Still trying to figure that one out.

Random musings…

Just a hunch, but get ready (and sooner rather than later) get ready for Angels/Yankees in the 2^nd round of the AL Playoffs. It’s really about time that the Angels solve the Red Sox anyway. Angels/Yankees could prove to be a great series.

Corey Brock of MLB.com is working the playoffs this year too. He’s on the Phillies and Rockies series, so check out his always stellar reporting on MLB.com. Poor guy has been under the weather and now he’s stuck in cold and snowy Denver for another night. Hope he didn’t have to DIG out at all! Feel better Corey!

Andy Awards fallout…

Glad many of you enjoyed my Padres post season awards entry the other day. Got some good response from readers both agreeing with and arguing their case for another player. Good healthy responses and I really appreciate them. The one sentiment we all have is, a much better 2010 for the Pesky Padres!

Alright, brain is fried, watched hours of college football today, followed by wait for it…coverage of the President’s Cup (I love golf). Loved the argyle sweater look for team USA. Then watched my beloved Chicago Blackhawks beat the Avalanche in a shootout, thanks to the free preview of NHL Center Ice. It’s been a full sports day, and more to come tomorrow with the NFL!

Comments are always welcome, and again I thank you for reading…

Andy

Padres Post Season Awards…

2009-10-09T15:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, it’s time for the inaugural Andy Awards.

I’m going to tell you who I think was the Padres, MVP, Pitcher of the Year, Rookie of the Year Player/Pitcher, Comeback Player, Unsung Hero of 2009 and the Padre I’m Most Looking Forward to Seeing in ’10 (The PIMLFS ’10). Here we go:

2009 Padres MVP: Adrian Gonzalez

Also considered: David Eckstein, Kevin Correia, and Kevin Kouzmanoff.

Tough to argue this one. Adrian once again showed why he is one of the elite in Major League Baseball. He hit .277, with 40 homers and drove in 99. He became one of just 4 San Diego hitters to belt 40 long ones in a season. He now has 30+ hr’s in 3 consecutive seasons (30, 36, 40). Not to mention his ability to walk, a career high 119 times in 2009. Gonzalez also plays a gold glove caliber first base.

2009 Padres Pitcher of the Year: Kevin Correia

Also considered: Heath Bell, Mike Adams, Edward Mujica and Luke Gregerson.

Correia was a non-roster invitee to spring training and won a spot out of camp. His early starts showed a little inconsistency, but something changed on or around May 15 in a start at PETCO against the Reds. He started showing faith in his curve and change up, and the rest was history. Culminating with a complete game shutout victory at Arizona, September 25^th. Correia finished 12-11 with a 3.91 ERA in a career high 33 starts.

2009 Padres Rookie Player of the Year: Everth Cabrera

Also considered: Will Venable, and Kyle Blanks.

I went with Cabrera because to me he was the most exciting player to watch this entire season. He continued to improve from day one, and when he returned from injury, he started every game. I was impressed with his plate discipline and of course his fielding. He did boot some routine grounders, but come on, he made some plays that still have me thinking, WOW! EC, you make it look EZ.

2009 Padres Rookie Pitcher of the Year: Luke Gregerson

Also considered: Mat Latos, and Ryan Webb.

Gregerson came out of nowhere. Seriously. Part of the retooled pen at the end of spring training, he was acquired as part of the Khalil Greene trade and never looked back. Luke appeared in 72 games, pitched in 75 innings and struck out 93 hitters. He became a stabilizing force in the 7^th and sometimes the 8^th. He also recorded his first ML save this season. His slider is among the best I’ve seen.

2009 Padres Comeback Player of the Year: Wade LeBlanc

Also considered: Joe Thatcher, Kevin Correia, and Tim Stauffer.

This was a tough choice. Considering that Thatcher who rode the Portland shuttle as many times as Drew Macias, made an adjustment in the minors and came back strong. He turned into a reliable reliever and situational lefty for Bud Black. But LeBlanc made his comeback after a demotion following a start in Seattle, and turned heads. His numbers after his first two outings, 0-1, 14.50 ERA, 4 1/3 innings, 7 earned runs. He finished the season, 3-1, with a 3.69 ERA. He cut down on his walks and struck out a career high 8 Giants in his last start.

2009 Unsung Hero of 2009: David Eckstein

Also considered: Mike Adams, Heath Bell, Henry Blanco, and Oscar Salazar.

What can you say about Eckstein. Numbers do not tell his story. He meant as much to the team in the clubhouse, lockering right next to Everth Cabrera, as he did on the field. He just made every play. How? Not sure, but he did. A stabilizing force in the lineup in the 2 hole, always gave a tough at bat, and who didn’t love watching him choke up on the bat? You know you did. Glad that Eckstein is going to be back in 2010. A class guy.

2010 Player I’m Most Looking Forward to Seeing 2010: Kyle Blanks

Also considered: Tony Gwynn, Luis Durango, Everth Cabrera, Will Venable

Blanks season was cut short due to a foot injury after 54 games. He hit .250, with 10 homers and 22 runs batted in. The sample size was good to get an idea of what raw power this young man possesses, but I would have loved to see more. His adjustment to the outfield seemed pretty smooth. He’s not Tony Gwynn or Will Venable out there, but he certainly made all the plays. His power and speed intrigue me, and I’m looking very forward to seeing more of Kyle Blanks in 2010.

Well there you have em, the first ever, Andy Awards. Let me know if you agree with my selections, and who some of your picks are.

Thanks for checking in!

Andy

Welcome!

2009-10-08T13:00:00.001-07:00

I've taken the plunge into the world of blogging! As if Twitter and a website aren't enough. Oh well.

Here's what you can expect in this spot from now until, well whenever...

During the Padres season, I'll try my best to keep you updated on the goings on at the ballpark and in the XX broadcast booth. Perhaps some photos, and amusing anecdotes along the way as well.

Off-season, I'm the voice of USD Toreros men's basketball, so I'll update you on where we are, and what's going on around the program. Plus as always, I'll stay on top of Padres off season news and notes, and how things are shaping up for 2010.

This is a collaborative effort. I'll post. You comment. Deal?

Random Thoughts on a Thursday...

PITCH TRAX

TBS has added something to the telecast for their playoff coverage, but only if you are watching in HD. A "PitchTrax" is constantly on the screen in the lower right corner, showing location of pitch and speed of pitch. Not a bad idea. Wondering though (tongue firmly implanted in cheek) is George Lopez really hosting a Late Night TV Show on TBS??????

PADRES ROSTER MOVES

The Padres made 3 roster moves today, saying good bye to pitchers, Cha Seung Baek and Shawn Hill, and outfielder Cliff Floyd. It's unfortunate that things didn't work out for these three good people. Injuries affected all of their performances. Baek was penciled in as the #3 starter, and never pitched an inning for the team. Hill was a good pick up, but the injury bug got him again and it was "tommy john surgery" for the 2nd time. Floyd hurt his shoulder in Spring Training, then his quad, then ultimately his knee. He only recorded 2 hits for the Padres this season. Wish them all well.

NLDS...

Count me among those that are surprised the Dodgers are up 2-0 in their series against the Cardinals. I thought with the pitching and offense of the Cardinals it would be the other way around...

Good series with the Rockies and Phillies...Cliff Lee was awesome in game 1, and the Rockies get a home run from Yorvit Torrealba (noted Padre killer this year) to even up the series...

ALDS...

It's about time the Angels win a series over the Red Sox...and tonight they took game 1 in Anaheim...

Let's see what the Twins do now that they've had a day to recover from the euphoria of the tie-breaker game...have to admit though, with the hard throwing youngsters in the Yankees bullpen, it's going to be hard to beat the Yanks...

That's it for now, thanks for checking me out here, I hope to be linked to the Padres website during the season, and to the XX 1090 (doublex1090.com) website soon...check back often!

Andy