Saturday, June 30, 2012
Aaron Hill Recycled
The Diamond Backs Aaron Hill became only the second baseball player since 1900 to hit for the cycle twice in one season. I like the cool factor of baseball even when the Twins lose.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Quality Control
Fitness and Air Conditioning
One of the reasons I like this blog more that my last one is that I'm not totally committed to "just sports." I'm sure readers like Tom the Twins Fan who are sport-a-holics may get confused by these offbeat pieces once in a while, but that's part of the fun. With no Twins game last night and very little happening in the world of sports (The NBA Draft? pffft) I get to make these types of observations more often than when I was The Sports Observer.
What is the leading cause of obesity on our society? Do we eat too much? Yes. Do we eat too much of the wrong thing? Yes. Do we exercise too little and spend far to much time in front of glowing screens doing everything from work to games to e-mails, blogs and facebook? Yes. Do we sit in front of an even larger glowing screen watching too much sports, television shows and movies as well. YES!!
But none of those things has caused the extreme "fatness craze" that has hit America over the last 30 years. Some folks think that overall affluence has caused us to eat more fast food while having extra money in our pockets have given us the ability to buy more stuff that produces activities that are more sedentary.
I agree with all of those things. But the primary cause of people being fat HERE in America?
Air conditioning.
What surprises me is that no one other than myself has come up with this answer. I'm sure if someone wants to get their doctorate by writing a thesis about this idea they'll find out that I'm right because the facts have been staring them right in the face for more than thirty years.
For those of you who don't see the link yet, I'll explain. When America was less affluent, air conditioning was rare, and because of that most Americans ate differently and acted differently 5 to 7 months of the year. Down south, they had an even longer hot and humid season than us northerners.
But air conditioning, specifically central air, changed our eating habits and activity habits dramatically. Instead of eating a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables and light sandwiches in the summer while drinking an endless supply of water that filled us up (because it was too hot for mom to cook) we started eating fatty and high-carb cooked meals all year round at every meal. Where we once just ate hot dishes and pizzas in the winter months, we made them a regular part of our diet for 12 months, year after year. Where we once gained "a little winter weight" because of our richer winter diets, we suddenly were eating winter meals in the summer as well. Moms liked to cook. We liked to eat. There was plenty of prepared food. It was now cool (not stifling hot) and we felt like eating. So we did. So instead of losing our "winter weight" each summer season, we continued to gain even more "winter weight" in the summer, year after year.
And we ate far more than we used to in the summer months when fruit and small sandwiches were all our sweat-soaked little bodies could handle. America got fat because America got more comfortable living conditions year round. But the effects of summer heat without air conditioning were two-fold. Not only did we eat less, we were also forced outside to cool off. Even with the windows open day and night it was hot in the house all the time. The only real solution back then was to go outside. Once we were outside, we played. For some reason playing in heat and humidity was way better then sitting drenched on a couch or chair that made you even warmer.
Summer activities, especially swimming, made sense when it was 100 degrees wherever you went in or out of the house. We ate less fast food back then, too. Nobody really feels like filling up on french fires and hamburgers every night when your really, really hot and sticky. And GOING to restaurant meant getting in a hot car that didn't have air conditioning. The car was hotter than the house OR outside. Just going out for anything became a chore. No one wanted to do it. You certainly didn't want to pick up a quick meal and EAT in the car. With the 120 degree temperatures in the car we all would have died.
Okay, you get the idea so I no longer have to belabor the point.
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that there is one other invention that's a contributing factor in all of this. Cooking in the summer became easier when you didn't have to heat up the whole house by using the stove and oven. The microwave oven is an accomplice in our obesity. There's probably another doctoral thesis in that tidbit of information as well.
What is the leading cause of obesity on our society? Do we eat too much? Yes. Do we eat too much of the wrong thing? Yes. Do we exercise too little and spend far to much time in front of glowing screens doing everything from work to games to e-mails, blogs and facebook? Yes. Do we sit in front of an even larger glowing screen watching too much sports, television shows and movies as well. YES!!
But none of those things has caused the extreme "fatness craze" that has hit America over the last 30 years. Some folks think that overall affluence has caused us to eat more fast food while having extra money in our pockets have given us the ability to buy more stuff that produces activities that are more sedentary.
I agree with all of those things. But the primary cause of people being fat HERE in America?
Air conditioning.
What surprises me is that no one other than myself has come up with this answer. I'm sure if someone wants to get their doctorate by writing a thesis about this idea they'll find out that I'm right because the facts have been staring them right in the face for more than thirty years.
For those of you who don't see the link yet, I'll explain. When America was less affluent, air conditioning was rare, and because of that most Americans ate differently and acted differently 5 to 7 months of the year. Down south, they had an even longer hot and humid season than us northerners.
But air conditioning, specifically central air, changed our eating habits and activity habits dramatically. Instead of eating a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables and light sandwiches in the summer while drinking an endless supply of water that filled us up (because it was too hot for mom to cook) we started eating fatty and high-carb cooked meals all year round at every meal. Where we once just ate hot dishes and pizzas in the winter months, we made them a regular part of our diet for 12 months, year after year. Where we once gained "a little winter weight" because of our richer winter diets, we suddenly were eating winter meals in the summer as well. Moms liked to cook. We liked to eat. There was plenty of prepared food. It was now cool (not stifling hot) and we felt like eating. So we did. So instead of losing our "winter weight" each summer season, we continued to gain even more "winter weight" in the summer, year after year.
And we ate far more than we used to in the summer months when fruit and small sandwiches were all our sweat-soaked little bodies could handle. America got fat because America got more comfortable living conditions year round. But the effects of summer heat without air conditioning were two-fold. Not only did we eat less, we were also forced outside to cool off. Even with the windows open day and night it was hot in the house all the time. The only real solution back then was to go outside. Once we were outside, we played. For some reason playing in heat and humidity was way better then sitting drenched on a couch or chair that made you even warmer.
Summer activities, especially swimming, made sense when it was 100 degrees wherever you went in or out of the house. We ate less fast food back then, too. Nobody really feels like filling up on french fires and hamburgers every night when your really, really hot and sticky. And GOING to restaurant meant getting in a hot car that didn't have air conditioning. The car was hotter than the house OR outside. Just going out for anything became a chore. No one wanted to do it. You certainly didn't want to pick up a quick meal and EAT in the car. With the 120 degree temperatures in the car we all would have died.
Okay, you get the idea so I no longer have to belabor the point.
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that there is one other invention that's a contributing factor in all of this. Cooking in the summer became easier when you didn't have to heat up the whole house by using the stove and oven. The microwave oven is an accomplice in our obesity. There's probably another doctoral thesis in that tidbit of information as well.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Clemens Trial Jury
I now have more hope than I've had in the U.S. legal system than I've had in a while.
These are some of the quotes of jurors from the case (along with a bit of the story:)
"Brian McNamee was not a strong enough witness to render a verdict of guilty against Roger Clemens," juror Bradford Weaver told The Associated Press. He said that McNamee wasn't credible for the jury because of a lack of "truthfulness."
"The witnesses for the prosecution were, uh, how does one put it, kind of wanting, if you will. ... It was quite lacking. If that's what they were going to go with, then they should probably not have pursued the case in the first place if that's all they had, you know."
The U.S. Attorney's office for the District of Columbia, which prosecuted the case, declined to comment Wednesday.
Another juror, Joyce Robinson-Paul, told the AP the case came down to "who was the liar? Was it Clemens or was it McNamee? We decided that it was McNamee."
She said jurors concluded there were too many inconsistencies and too many different stories from McNamee. And she said they didn't believe that the physical evidence -- medical waste containing steroids and Clemens' DNA -- was reliable.
"Seven years of garbage?" said Robinson-Paul, a retiree. "That had to be tested against the test of time in a beer can. Plus, it was devious on his part."
It still frustrates me that this case even came to trial. It bothers me that Congress got this whole mess going by making McNamee their key witness. But at least the jurors were bright enough to see how incompetent the government was in the pursuit of "justice." I applaud the jury.
I'm still afraid of the government, however.
These are some of the quotes of jurors from the case (along with a bit of the story:)
"Brian McNamee was not a strong enough witness to render a verdict of guilty against Roger Clemens," juror Bradford Weaver told The Associated Press. He said that McNamee wasn't credible for the jury because of a lack of "truthfulness."
"The witnesses for the prosecution were, uh, how does one put it, kind of wanting, if you will. ... It was quite lacking. If that's what they were going to go with, then they should probably not have pursued the case in the first place if that's all they had, you know."
The U.S. Attorney's office for the District of Columbia, which prosecuted the case, declined to comment Wednesday.
Another juror, Joyce Robinson-Paul, told the AP the case came down to "who was the liar? Was it Clemens or was it McNamee? We decided that it was McNamee."
She said jurors concluded there were too many inconsistencies and too many different stories from McNamee. And she said they didn't believe that the physical evidence -- medical waste containing steroids and Clemens' DNA -- was reliable.
"Seven years of garbage?" said Robinson-Paul, a retiree. "That had to be tested against the test of time in a beer can. Plus, it was devious on his part."
It still frustrates me that this case even came to trial. It bothers me that Congress got this whole mess going by making McNamee their key witness. But at least the jurors were bright enough to see how incompetent the government was in the pursuit of "justice." I applaud the jury.
I'm still afraid of the government, however.
Sports Notes
Twins got whomped, moving on...
The T-Wolves decided the number 18 pick in the draft wasn't that big a deal so instead of paying him a guaranteed 3-year deal, they decided to trade that pick for an established player who will make much less money, The player? Chase Budinger. He has a sweet 3-point shot and was athletic enough to be in the slam dunk competition last year. I don't mind the strategy.
As bad as the Twins have played this year, at least we are not the Dodgers. The Giants not only swept them three games straight, they shut the Dodgers out for all three games as well. The Giants have some great pitching. Even Tom Lincecum is throwing like his old self again.
And how about those Cubs? The Mets beat them 17-1 yesterday. The Twins getting beat 12-5 doesn't sound nearly as bad now.
The T-Wolves decided the number 18 pick in the draft wasn't that big a deal so instead of paying him a guaranteed 3-year deal, they decided to trade that pick for an established player who will make much less money, The player? Chase Budinger. He has a sweet 3-point shot and was athletic enough to be in the slam dunk competition last year. I don't mind the strategy.
As bad as the Twins have played this year, at least we are not the Dodgers. The Giants not only swept them three games straight, they shut the Dodgers out for all three games as well. The Giants have some great pitching. Even Tom Lincecum is throwing like his old self again.
And how about those Cubs? The Mets beat them 17-1 yesterday. The Twins getting beat 12-5 doesn't sound nearly as bad now.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
College Football Ruined
The four team play-off is now official. The regular season, beginning in 2014, will be rendered meaningless.
The biggest complaint from fans so far based on ESPN discussion boards was that more teams were not included. Most want 8 and many other want 16 so that all 11 major conferences are included. I can't believe sports fans are so consistently dumb.
I have an idea. Make the regular season matter, that way ALL the teams in the country have a chance at the title. Make the regular season a sudden death play-off where if you lose you are most likely DONE. The team with the best record at the end wins it all!
They had the best championship of all sports and now it's gone. They said the four team tourney will be in place for 12 years. I HOPE that's the case. If they add more teams, none of the games will matter, not even the playoffs, just like college basketball.
The biggest complaint from fans so far based on ESPN discussion boards was that more teams were not included. Most want 8 and many other want 16 so that all 11 major conferences are included. I can't believe sports fans are so consistently dumb.
I have an idea. Make the regular season matter, that way ALL the teams in the country have a chance at the title. Make the regular season a sudden death play-off where if you lose you are most likely DONE. The team with the best record at the end wins it all!
They had the best championship of all sports and now it's gone. They said the four team tourney will be in place for 12 years. I HOPE that's the case. If they add more teams, none of the games will matter, not even the playoffs, just like college basketball.
Twins
I feel sorry for Liam Hendriks. He's had a couple of rough outings that increased his ERA (Casilla's misplayed double-play balls contributed to that as well) but he's had two no decisions and he had a really good solid outing last night. The problem is the Twins bats have went to sleep again. Two runs in the ninth made it look like a good game on the scoreboard, but those two runs just weren't enough.
Bummer. A nice performance by Hendriks was wasted and he still doesn't have a win.
Bummer. A nice performance by Hendriks was wasted and he still doesn't have a win.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
The Seedier Side of Life
Drugs are a curious thing. As a society we have set the limits on some, but allow others to freely invade our lives. We ban and suspend athletes who go too far, but we look the other way when something much closer to home hits us nearly everywhere we go.
What is a drug? It's something that effects your body's normal physiology. In most cases, as a society, we are worried about the drugs that affect our minds so that we no longer think clearly, though in some cases we are concerned about the effects that some drugs have on our bodies. And we're always worried about the addictive qualities and long term deleterious effects that some of these drugs may possess.
More clearly defined, drugs change blood pressure, they elevate (or slow down) metabolism and heart rate. Many drugs make you sweat as a result of the quick metabolic changes. And you crave them. Life without them becomes boring. You can't believe how bland things are without them. You need them in ways that you never noticed before you started using them. They become so common that you can't go back to living without them.
Worse, people who may be casual users, are often tempted by their friends, to try even larger and larger amounts of the these drugs to see who "can handle their effects better," as if its somehow manly to almost pass out by using them.
I have friends like that. And they don't even realize how dangerous what they are doing may be.
More worrisome? These entry-level drugs are a slippery slope to more powerful drugs. The more they use one, the more they start to need others. Before you know it it's an endless cycle of abuse.
The worse part is the drugs I'm talking about aren't even looked at as drugs in our society and their use is often encouraged among children and teens. Consuming them in massive quantities isn't even considered illegal.
The drug? Spice. Our society has some how become addicted to the fact that "spicier" is better, that "hotter" is more desirable. I've seen grown adults nearly cry like babies as they eat spoonful after spoonful of chile that's so hot it'll make your eyes water if you are in the same room with it. I've seen friends turn bright red and sweat like they are in a sauna just by sampling the latest hot pepper that one of them has recently discovered. And then they'll eat another one and another one. It's a sickness born of misplaced machoism and pride. And like most drug users, in the beginning they'll do it because it's expected of them as some form of peer pressure. But after a while, they'll start to crave it, and then over time, they'll want it in and on everything.
And every single time it will effect their metabolism and their heart rate, and their blood pressure. Eating it will always make them sweat profusely. They'll learn to tolerate the side-effects because they'll begin to enjoy them and the false sense of accomplishment that goes along with their use. And they will seek out hotter and hotter spices that lead to even greater and greater metabolic changes.
Depending on where they eat the food that contains them, they'll start seeking out alcoholic beverages to lessen the effects of the spice. And depending on the hotness factor, they'll need more and more of the alcohol to numb their tongues and quench the great thirst that results from that spice. As I said, it's a gateway drug.
Why am I writing this? As a warning.
Also I'd like to go to a fast food place once in a while and be able to get a chicken sandwich that isn't spicy.
What is a drug? It's something that effects your body's normal physiology. In most cases, as a society, we are worried about the drugs that affect our minds so that we no longer think clearly, though in some cases we are concerned about the effects that some drugs have on our bodies. And we're always worried about the addictive qualities and long term deleterious effects that some of these drugs may possess.
More clearly defined, drugs change blood pressure, they elevate (or slow down) metabolism and heart rate. Many drugs make you sweat as a result of the quick metabolic changes. And you crave them. Life without them becomes boring. You can't believe how bland things are without them. You need them in ways that you never noticed before you started using them. They become so common that you can't go back to living without them.
Worse, people who may be casual users, are often tempted by their friends, to try even larger and larger amounts of the these drugs to see who "can handle their effects better," as if its somehow manly to almost pass out by using them.
I have friends like that. And they don't even realize how dangerous what they are doing may be.
More worrisome? These entry-level drugs are a slippery slope to more powerful drugs. The more they use one, the more they start to need others. Before you know it it's an endless cycle of abuse.
The worse part is the drugs I'm talking about aren't even looked at as drugs in our society and their use is often encouraged among children and teens. Consuming them in massive quantities isn't even considered illegal.
The drug? Spice. Our society has some how become addicted to the fact that "spicier" is better, that "hotter" is more desirable. I've seen grown adults nearly cry like babies as they eat spoonful after spoonful of chile that's so hot it'll make your eyes water if you are in the same room with it. I've seen friends turn bright red and sweat like they are in a sauna just by sampling the latest hot pepper that one of them has recently discovered. And then they'll eat another one and another one. It's a sickness born of misplaced machoism and pride. And like most drug users, in the beginning they'll do it because it's expected of them as some form of peer pressure. But after a while, they'll start to crave it, and then over time, they'll want it in and on everything.
And every single time it will effect their metabolism and their heart rate, and their blood pressure. Eating it will always make them sweat profusely. They'll learn to tolerate the side-effects because they'll begin to enjoy them and the false sense of accomplishment that goes along with their use. And they will seek out hotter and hotter spices that lead to even greater and greater metabolic changes.
Depending on where they eat the food that contains them, they'll start seeking out alcoholic beverages to lessen the effects of the spice. And depending on the hotness factor, they'll need more and more of the alcohol to numb their tongues and quench the great thirst that results from that spice. As I said, it's a gateway drug.
Why am I writing this? As a warning.
Also I'd like to go to a fast food place once in a while and be able to get a chicken sandwich that isn't spicy.
Liriano Rocks As Twins Roll
I really don't know what's got into Francisco lately, but I am cautiously optimistic that he might actually have rediscovered what made him so good years ago. As bad a season as it's been, the Twins are just 7.5 games out of the division lead.
I can't believe I just typed that.
Revere had four hits. Mauer added three as well. The only bad part? The Twins stranded 13 runners. It's a good thing the pitching was great.
I can't believe I just typed that.
Revere had four hits. Mauer added three as well. The only bad part? The Twins stranded 13 runners. It's a good thing the pitching was great.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Twins Take Series
Plouffe hit a homer early. Willingham hit the game winner. Diamond got the win. These three have been the main reason to watch Twins baseball this season.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Jim Thome
He did it again. Jim Thome hit a walk-off homerun to give the Phillies a win over the Rays yesterday. Interleague play is almost over so I'm not sure what Thome will be doing the rest of the season. I'm just glad he got his chance to shine again this year. He will always be one of the all-time greats.
Luis Tiant
When the Twins acquired Luis Tiant from Boston when I was growing up, he really stood out as a pitcher. Not just because he was good, but because he had one of the most unique delivery motions I had ever seen. He'd actually turn his back to the batter every time he threw the ball. My twin brother and I who imitated just about every batting style in the league when we played ball now had someone else to imitate. When we pitched, we now threw like Luis Tiant (El Tiante).
Why do I bring this up? Yesterday the Twins lost because they faced the ace of the Cincinnati Reds and he was ON. His delivery? Well, let's just say he must have seem some film of Luis Tiant growing up. Boy did that bring back memories.
Johnny Cueto shut the Twins out yesterday, but watching him pitch was well worth it. I wonder how many little kids in Ohio will be imitating that style over the next several years? If they are baseball fans who love the game, my guess is all of them.
Why do I bring this up? Yesterday the Twins lost because they faced the ace of the Cincinnati Reds and he was ON. His delivery? Well, let's just say he must have seem some film of Luis Tiant growing up. Boy did that bring back memories.
Johnny Cueto shut the Twins out yesterday, but watching him pitch was well worth it. I wonder how many little kids in Ohio will be imitating that style over the next several years? If they are baseball fans who love the game, my guess is all of them.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Twins Win
Doumit and Revere both had 4 hits. Relief was stellar. Blackburn wasn't very good but we still won 5-4.
I enjoyed listening to commentary last night. I found out the Royals have lost FOUR starters so far this season to Tommy John surgery. I also found out that Toronto has lost 3 starting pitchers to injuries this week.
The Twins haven't had a great deal of luck with starters this season either, but those situations are worse.
Rumor has it that Toronto wants to trade for one of OUR starters. Yeah, they are that desperate.
I enjoyed listening to commentary last night. I found out the Royals have lost FOUR starters so far this season to Tommy John surgery. I also found out that Toronto has lost 3 starting pitchers to injuries this week.
The Twins haven't had a great deal of luck with starters this season either, but those situations are worse.
Rumor has it that Toronto wants to trade for one of OUR starters. Yeah, they are that desperate.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Harvin Returns
He played well and said he didn't know what the fuss was about.
12-year old diva on Facebook response. He should have said nothing at this point.
12-year old diva on Facebook response. He should have said nothing at this point.
OKC Whomped
LeBron got his first ring. His Miami strategy paid off.
My feelings?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjIfrQqABl0
My feelings?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjIfrQqABl0
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Harvin Walks Out
He says it's not money and he wants to be traded.
My advice? Percy, shut up and be a man OR if you are taking this public tell people why you are doing this.
Right now you sound like a 14 year old girl on Facebook.
A spoiled 14-year old girl on Facebook.
"I'm sad."
Grow up for crying out loud. We've put up with your migraines for three seasons. Now you're giving us a headache.
My advice? Percy, shut up and be a man OR if you are taking this public tell people why you are doing this.
Right now you sound like a 14 year old girl on Facebook.
A spoiled 14-year old girl on Facebook.
"I'm sad."
Grow up for crying out loud. We've put up with your migraines for three seasons. Now you're giving us a headache.
Liriano Getting Better
Francisco pitched into the seventh this time and only gave up ONE run. The Twins won 2-1. The Twins RBI? Plouffe and Willingham of course. For Willingham it was a homerun, his 14th of the season.
Where would the Twins be without Plouffe and Willingham?
Where would the Twins be without Plouffe and Willingham?
College Football Playoffs
As early as 2014, college football could have a 4-team playoff. I've always said I wouldn't mind a plus-one type situation if two teams finished the season undefeated. This would kind of be like that.
I still think it will hurt the regular season games and what they mean. Right now, a big loss early could take you OUT of the championship game at the end. In effect, college football's season IS a sudden death playoff the entire season. But four teams is way better than 8 or 16. Until of course when they add more teams sometime in the not too distant future. Once the door is open there will be no stopping it, because all the 10-1 or 9-2 teams will say they should be in it too and it's not fair that they are not.
College football has the best "playoff" system right now, anything they do will simply make it worse. But gambling casual fans will love the brackets.
I hate it when idiots rule.
I still think it will hurt the regular season games and what they mean. Right now, a big loss early could take you OUT of the championship game at the end. In effect, college football's season IS a sudden death playoff the entire season. But four teams is way better than 8 or 16. Until of course when they add more teams sometime in the not too distant future. Once the door is open there will be no stopping it, because all the 10-1 or 9-2 teams will say they should be in it too and it's not fair that they are not.
College football has the best "playoff" system right now, anything they do will simply make it worse. But gambling casual fans will love the brackets.
I hate it when idiots rule.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Notes
Percy Harvin has told anybody that will listen that he is not happy. When asked about what, he has no real answers but wants everything straightened out by the end of training camp.
Translation: He wants a huge new contract even though he has two years left on his old one.
The Twins lost again last night. Diamond was very good through five, but sometimes the pitching you face is better than the pitching you have.
The Heat took a 3-1 series lead last night. I'm quickly losing interest in the NBA. It looks like LeBron is going to get his ring.
Translation: He wants a huge new contract even though he has two years left on his old one.
The Twins lost again last night. Diamond was very good through five, but sometimes the pitching you face is better than the pitching you have.
The Heat took a 3-1 series lead last night. I'm quickly losing interest in the NBA. It looks like LeBron is going to get his ring.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Baseball Notes
Remember when former Twin R.A. Dickey just missed a no-hitter last week? He pitched his second consecutive one-hitter last night. Pretty impressive.
Remember all the hoopla about Roger Clemens lying to congress about his possible steroid use? After months of trial and hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of of tax money spent, Roger was acquitted of ALL charges yesterday. It only took the jury 10 hours of deliberation. At least they didn't waste as much money as the ongoing Barry Bonds saga.
Remember all the hoopla about Roger Clemens lying to congress about his possible steroid use? After months of trial and hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of of tax money spent, Roger was acquitted of ALL charges yesterday. It only took the jury 10 hours of deliberation. At least they didn't waste as much money as the ongoing Barry Bonds saga.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Twins End Skid
I'm getting to this kind of late today, but I caught the last 8 innings yesterday and I wanted SOMEBODY to know that I was still watching.
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Twins Lose
That's four straight. Instead of watching another loss, we called up On Demand yesterday and watched the History Channel's miniseries The Hatfields and McCoys instead.
Riveting and brutal, it's hard to imagine how two families could be so utterly clueless and protective at the same time. Much better viewing than another Twins loss.
Riveting and brutal, it's hard to imagine how two families could be so utterly clueless and protective at the same time. Much better viewing than another Twins loss.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Twins
Liriano was good for 5 innings again. That sixth is killing him.
Trevor Plouffe hit TWO homeruns last night to take the team lead over Willingham. Man, this kid's hot. That's 14 for the season and 7 in seven games.
Matt Capps can get saves but he cannot "hold" games. He lost another in the ninth.
That's three straight losses again for the Twins.
sigh
PLOUUUUUUUUUFFE!!!
Trevor Plouffe hit TWO homeruns last night to take the team lead over Willingham. Man, this kid's hot. That's 14 for the season and 7 in seven games.
Matt Capps can get saves but he cannot "hold" games. He lost another in the ninth.
That's three straight losses again for the Twins.
sigh
PLOUUUUUUUUUFFE!!!
Friday, June 15, 2012
Observation of the Day
The Cubs fired their hitting coach earlier this week. Most were surprised.
Not that they FIRED him, but they we're surprised to learn the Cubs HAD a hitting coach.
(Rimshot.)
Thank you. I'll be playing here all week.
Not that they FIRED him, but they we're surprised to learn the Cubs HAD a hitting coach.
(Rimshot.)
Thank you. I'll be playing here all week.
Thome
Is there anybody watching the game last night that didn't predict Jim Thome's 3-run homer in the top of the third last night? I changed the channel as soon as he came up because I didn't want to see it. Jim ended up with NINE RBI in the three game series. Yeah, he likes hitting in Target Field.
It's weird though, after inter-league play is over, he'll have to sit on the bench the rest of the season as a pinch hitter for the Phils. He NEEDS to be on an American League club. Perhaps he'll still take a trade so he can keep playing. His purpose just ran out in Philly.
His back will not let him play in the field.
It's weird though, after inter-league play is over, he'll have to sit on the bench the rest of the season as a pinch hitter for the Phils. He NEEDS to be on an American League club. Perhaps he'll still take a trade so he can keep playing. His purpose just ran out in Philly.
His back will not let him play in the field.
Heat Tie Series
Bummer.
But still a great game. I thought the Thunder were going to rally again. They came up just short.
But still a great game. I thought the Thunder were going to rally again. They came up just short.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
R.A. Dickey
Two former Twins pitchers have already thrown no-hitters this season (Humber and Santana.) Last night, it almost happened again. Official scorers called what was probably an error a hit last night and as a result the Met's R.A Dickey got a one-hitter instead of a no-hitter.
sigh
I like baseball, but the coolness factor of a no-hitter and a perfect game in the same night would have been off the charts. As usual it was an official call that stopped it from happening.
I love baseball. I just hate officials.
Dickey has been outstanding for the Mets this season. he had his 32 2/3 inning scoreless streak ended last night but still won 9-1. There is talk of him making the All-Star game. Another Twin who got away. For those who don't remember, he was our knuckleballer.
sigh
I like baseball, but the coolness factor of a no-hitter and a perfect game in the same night would have been off the charts. As usual it was an official call that stopped it from happening.
I love baseball. I just hate officials.
Dickey has been outstanding for the Mets this season. he had his 32 2/3 inning scoreless streak ended last night but still won 9-1. There is talk of him making the All-Star game. Another Twin who got away. For those who don't remember, he was our knuckleballer.
Perfect
The Twins lost last night. Young up and comer P.J. Walters left before he had any outs because of shoulder pain and the night went downhill from there. Jim Thome proved he could still hit including a 466 foot blast. He has 5 of the six longest homeruns in Target field history. The Twins made a valiant comeback but still lost 9-8.
But I don't want to talk about that game. I want to talk about perhaps the single greatest pitched game of all-time and it happened last night. Yes, Matt Cain threw a perfect game last night for the Giants. And he did it while striking out 14 Astros. He was solid throughout and his defense made a couple of super plays. He dominated the Astros in such a way that even older sports writers were in awe.
That's the second perfect game THIS SEASON and there have only been 22 in history. That's also the fifth no-hitter already this year. I wish I could have seen that game live. The highlights were great but this was a game that the 42,000 at the ballpark will remember forever.
I LOVE baseball even when the Twins get drubbed. Baseball goes beyond the Twins. That sense of history and historical significance just isn't in any other sport. It's almost magical.
But I don't want to talk about that game. I want to talk about perhaps the single greatest pitched game of all-time and it happened last night. Yes, Matt Cain threw a perfect game last night for the Giants. And he did it while striking out 14 Astros. He was solid throughout and his defense made a couple of super plays. He dominated the Astros in such a way that even older sports writers were in awe.
That's the second perfect game THIS SEASON and there have only been 22 in history. That's also the fifth no-hitter already this year. I wish I could have seen that game live. The highlights were great but this was a game that the 42,000 at the ballpark will remember forever.
I LOVE baseball even when the Twins get drubbed. Baseball goes beyond the Twins. That sense of history and historical significance just isn't in any other sport. It's almost magical.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Plouffe and Willingham
The Twins have now won 10 of their last 13 games. Blackburn was horrible last night and the bullpen didn't get good until the last couple pitchers but the the Twins are hitting the ball so well lately that it really didn't matter. Trevor Plouffe is ON FIRE. He hit his 10th homer of the season last night and Josh Willingham, who has cooled off some as of late, finally got his 12th.
The Twins managed 17 hits and 11 more runs so even bad pitching didn't hurt last night.
The Twins managed 17 hits and 11 more runs so even bad pitching didn't hurt last night.
O K C !
I watched parts of this game last night. Was depressed when OKC got off to a horrible start, but kept switching back hoping for a rally.
OKC THUNDERED back (so that's their team name...) and ended up winning rather easily.
I don't like LeBron and I don't like the way the Heat assembled their team. I always want them to lose which makes it easy for me to have a rooting interest.
I watched a lot more of the Twins game last night than the NBA game, but it was fun to see an NBA team (the Thunder) play like a team. I saw more great passing last night than I've seen in a long, long time. I'm hoping for an OKC sweep but will settle for them just winning the title.
OKC THUNDERED back (so that's their team name...) and ended up winning rather easily.
I don't like LeBron and I don't like the way the Heat assembled their team. I always want them to lose which makes it easy for me to have a rooting interest.
I watched a lot more of the Twins game last night than the NBA game, but it was fun to see an NBA team (the Thunder) play like a team. I saw more great passing last night than I've seen in a long, long time. I'm hoping for an OKC sweep but will settle for them just winning the title.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
How Much Does Two Pounds Of Marijuana Cost?
For new Viking receiver Jerome Simpson the answer is three games AND an extra game check.
That better have been some good marijuana.
That better have been some good marijuana.
Jim Thome Returns to Minnesota Tonight
He may now play for the Phillies, but I'm guessing Twins fans will cheer his at-bats wildly.
And they should.
And they should.
Boxing Lesson
Professional boxing has become less and less popular over the last couple of decades. The primary reasons? There are no great heavyweights to root for and most fights are decided by judges and not the boxers themselves. That and UFC offers a lot of what boxing used to offer.
Boxers today are content to get a lot of body shots in on their opponents, but most are not willing to take the risk of going for a knockout. They swing a lot. They connect a lot. But they don't really punish the other boxer. They then stand back and let the judges decide how pretty their punches looked in the ring.
Saturday night that strategy backfired for Manny Pacquiao. Most viewers saw him dominate the fight, seeing him throw and land a lot more punches. The problem is that two of the judges (you know the guys that matter) didn't see the same fight as the rest of us. Manny lost his title because of that and boxing lost much of the reputation it still had left.
Boxing has become ballet. And judges award the points. I've never liked any sport where judges decide the points and the winners. Boxing used to be a sport where two men entered the ring and the one who lost was the one who could not finish the fight. For safety reasons they decided that was too dangerous. I don't disagree with the reasoning, but it's left us with a sport that really is no longer boxing. And no longer interesting.
Boxers today are content to get a lot of body shots in on their opponents, but most are not willing to take the risk of going for a knockout. They swing a lot. They connect a lot. But they don't really punish the other boxer. They then stand back and let the judges decide how pretty their punches looked in the ring.
Saturday night that strategy backfired for Manny Pacquiao. Most viewers saw him dominate the fight, seeing him throw and land a lot more punches. The problem is that two of the judges (you know the guys that matter) didn't see the same fight as the rest of us. Manny lost his title because of that and boxing lost much of the reputation it still had left.
Boxing has become ballet. And judges award the points. I've never liked any sport where judges decide the points and the winners. Boxing used to be a sport where two men entered the ring and the one who lost was the one who could not finish the fight. For safety reasons they decided that was too dangerous. I don't disagree with the reasoning, but it's left us with a sport that really is no longer boxing. And no longer interesting.
Kings Win Lord Stanley's Cup
I didn't watch any of the games this year. What surprised me the most wasn't that this is Los Angeles' first Cup, but that the franchise has been around 45 years. I always kind of thought they were one of the "newer franchises." Man I feel old.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Sharapova Wins French Open
Maria Sharapova has been battling a shoulder injury for several years. Yesterday, she finally won another of the majors. It was the first French Open title of her her career.
She has now won all of the major Opens at least once.
The King of Diamonds
Scott Diamond pitched another 6 scoreless innings yesterday. Man, this kid is looking great.
The Twins offense exploded for 11 runs and 16 hits.
It's fun to watch the Twins beat up on teams that are worse than they are. And since there's not a lot of teams out there that are worse, you have to sit back and enjoy the opportunities when they arise.
Ben Revere has been especially hot as of late as well. I know this will all come crashing down soon, but as long as they are winning, I can keep watching.
The Twins offense exploded for 11 runs and 16 hits.
It's fun to watch the Twins beat up on teams that are worse than they are. And since there's not a lot of teams out there that are worse, you have to sit back and enjoy the opportunities when they arise.
Ben Revere has been especially hot as of late as well. I know this will all come crashing down soon, but as long as they are winning, I can keep watching.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
DUI of the Day
The NFL is looking into Vikings fullback and his current DWI arrest. Since he has had a previous conviction in this area, the league is looking into some discipline of it's own.
FINALLY.
The league has ignored this problem for far too long. Risking the lives of others should not be tolerated. These players need to suffer consequences for their inappropriate, illegal behavior. Driving drunk is far more serious than doing 'roids, or having bounties.
Drunk driving kills thousands on American highways every single year. It's time for the league to step up and make these guys responsible.
FINALLY.
The league has ignored this problem for far too long. Risking the lives of others should not be tolerated. These players need to suffer consequences for their inappropriate, illegal behavior. Driving drunk is far more serious than doing 'roids, or having bounties.
Drunk driving kills thousands on American highways every single year. It's time for the league to step up and make these guys responsible.
I'll Have Another
No triple crown winner this year. I'll Have Another officially retired with a leg injury yesterday.
At least the horse didn't break it's leg and die.
At least the horse didn't break it's leg and die.
Willingham
Josh Willingham has become "The Man" for the Twins this season. I wanted HIM to come to the plate last night with the winning run on third.
He delivered. And the Twins continue to beat up on teams who are struggling.
I'm enjoying this streak and I hope it continues.
He delivered. And the Twins continue to beat up on teams who are struggling.
I'm enjoying this streak and I hope it continues.
No Hitter
Seattle got one against the Dodgers yesterday. The Cool thing? SIX pitchers were needed to do it. Millwood left with a groin injury in the sixth so he needed some help. That's the most pitchers ever for a combined no-hitter. I love baseball.
Friday, June 8, 2012
Celtics Lose
The Heat looked like the team to beat last night. The Celtics looked really, really bad. One more to go. At Miami. I don't like Boston's chances.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Jeff Manship
I waited to post this until I got a good picture of it. Here's the miss-spelled jersey from last night.
Teammates just can't get enough of this. They'll be mispronouncing his name and spelling it wrong for at least a few more days.
Blackburn
I admit that two-run homerun in the first was kind of depressing, but after that it was lights out.
Another series win for the Twins. I'm hoping they make a habit of this.
Another series win for the Twins. I'm hoping they make a habit of this.
OKC!
I wasn't home last night so I missed this game.
If OKC keeps winning like this, I'm going to make a point of finding out their team name.
I'm hoping the Celtics can get their win next.
If OKC keeps winning like this, I'm going to make a point of finding out their team name.
I'm hoping the Celtics can get their win next.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Boston WINS!
I keep thinking about game two in that series. The Celtics had a huge lead and lost that game in OT. There were also a couple of fouls late in the game that clearly went the Heat's way.
Without the aid of those two official calls, it's possible that Boston could have already won that series 4 games to 1.
As it is, Boston has a 3-2 series lead and now heads back home to Boston for the next game in hopes of putting the Heat away.
It was a great game last night and Paul Pierce came up huge late.
I can't believe I'm enjoying basketball this much again.
Without the aid of those two official calls, it's possible that Boston could have already won that series 4 games to 1.
As it is, Boston has a 3-2 series lead and now heads back home to Boston for the next game in hopes of putting the Heat away.
It was a great game last night and Paul Pierce came up huge late.
I can't believe I'm enjoying basketball this much again.
Liriano Rocks
He even had four strikeouts in ONE inning.
Unfortunately, the Twins muffed a double play opportunity in the second, and the one run that later scored as a result ended up being the difference in the game.
The Twins offense got shut out yet again. I've lost count but I think that's now NINE times this year.
The worst kind of loss. 1-0.
Unfortunately, the Twins muffed a double play opportunity in the second, and the one run that later scored as a result ended up being the difference in the game.
The Twins offense got shut out yet again. I've lost count but I think that's now NINE times this year.
The worst kind of loss. 1-0.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Six out of Seven
I sure wish that the White Sox hadn't gotten hot in the last two weeks. If Cleveland was still the division leader, the Twins could actually be making a legitimate run at first by the All-Star break.
Last night, the pitching wasn't all that good. The bullpen had been flawless for 18 plus innings. The starters (other than Pavano who is now on the disabled list) have been pretty good.
Last night, new starter, Cole Devries gave up 4 runs in a little over 5 innings. The bullpen gave up 3 more later. In the end, however, it was the Twins offense that made the game watchable. The combination of three stolen bases and three homeruns at just the right time gave the Twins a 10-7 victory.
They are still trailing KC in the division, but they are looking more and more like a team worth watching.
Joe Mauer will be missing a few games with a sore thumb, but it's not like he's the center hub of the offense any more, so the Twins might not even notice he's missing. If they can keep hitting, they might just keep winning.
Last night, the pitching wasn't all that good. The bullpen had been flawless for 18 plus innings. The starters (other than Pavano who is now on the disabled list) have been pretty good.
Last night, new starter, Cole Devries gave up 4 runs in a little over 5 innings. The bullpen gave up 3 more later. In the end, however, it was the Twins offense that made the game watchable. The combination of three stolen bases and three homeruns at just the right time gave the Twins a 10-7 victory.
They are still trailing KC in the division, but they are looking more and more like a team worth watching.
Joe Mauer will be missing a few games with a sore thumb, but it's not like he's the center hub of the offense any more, so the Twins might not even notice he's missing. If they can keep hitting, they might just keep winning.
OKC! OKC! OKC!
I'm kind of feeling sorry for San Antonio right now. They had the best team in the NBA this season. They had won 20 straight including the playoffs up until three games ago. But now OKC has dominated them THREE games in a row.
Last night OKC won AT San Antonio, breaking the home court advantage, placing the Spurs on the brink of elimination.
I went into the NBA playoffs rooting for a OKC/Boston final. It hasn't happened yet, but these games have been great to watch. I haven't had NBA fever since Bird and Magic. I haven't come down with it yet, but my forehead might be getting a little warm.
Go OKC! Go Boston!
Last night OKC won AT San Antonio, breaking the home court advantage, placing the Spurs on the brink of elimination.
I went into the NBA playoffs rooting for a OKC/Boston final. It hasn't happened yet, but these games have been great to watch. I haven't had NBA fever since Bird and Magic. I haven't come down with it yet, but my forehead might be getting a little warm.
Go OKC! Go Boston!
Monday, June 4, 2012
Celtics WIN!
The Celts dominated the first half just like they did in game two. Unlike game two, this time they WON in overtime. Home court advantage continues.
Twins Take Series
As odd as it seems, the Twins have now won 5 of their last 6 ball games. Scott Diamond is now 4-1 with his brief stint as a starter and his ERA is a spectacular 1.86 in those games.
Cleveland might very well be on a downward spiral that will leave them out of the division race in a very short time, but the Twins new young guns are coming to play and they continue to give me reason to watch.
Worrisome? THREE errors yesterday by the Twins defense. That stat is going to take it's toll after awhile.
Cleveland might very well be on a downward spiral that will leave them out of the division race in a very short time, but the Twins new young guns are coming to play and they continue to give me reason to watch.
Worrisome? THREE errors yesterday by the Twins defense. That stat is going to take it's toll after awhile.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Red Sox
Dustin Pedroia is one of the best players in baseball. He's a super-solid second baseman, a great hitter, and a yearly MVP candidate. With him, however, the Red Sox got off to one of the worst starts in their long history.
14 or 15 games ago he hurt his thumb. The Red Sox were forced to use a journeyman infielder to take his place. But something weird happened when this replacement player started playing for the Sox. They suddenly started winning.
In fact they have now won 10 of their last 14 games with this new second baseman providing the spark that superstar Pedroia never quite gave them. Yesterday this backup second baseman came up a triple short of the cycle as he led his team to yet another amazing victory.
The infielder's name?
One of my all-time favorite utility infielders, Nick Punto.
I said the Twins would become losers two seasons ago when we got rid of him. In his first year away form the Twins, he helped St. Louis win their first World Series in a long time. Something they could never quite do with just Pujols in the line-up. Now that he's in the Red Sox line-up they have suddenly become winners again as well. Dustin Pedroia is getting healthier every day and should be back soon. I'm thinking without Punto playing every day their fortunes will suddenly turn. No one will be able to figure out why.
No one that is except me, the casual sports fan. Moneyball has taught me a lot over the years and there are two things that matter more than anything 1) being able to play your position on defense flawlessly and 2) your on base percentage. Even when Punto's batting average suffers, he still gets on base more than most players on his team.
He knows how to win. He's a winner.
14 or 15 games ago he hurt his thumb. The Red Sox were forced to use a journeyman infielder to take his place. But something weird happened when this replacement player started playing for the Sox. They suddenly started winning.
In fact they have now won 10 of their last 14 games with this new second baseman providing the spark that superstar Pedroia never quite gave them. Yesterday this backup second baseman came up a triple short of the cycle as he led his team to yet another amazing victory.
The infielder's name?
One of my all-time favorite utility infielders, Nick Punto.
I said the Twins would become losers two seasons ago when we got rid of him. In his first year away form the Twins, he helped St. Louis win their first World Series in a long time. Something they could never quite do with just Pujols in the line-up. Now that he's in the Red Sox line-up they have suddenly become winners again as well. Dustin Pedroia is getting healthier every day and should be back soon. I'm thinking without Punto playing every day their fortunes will suddenly turn. No one will be able to figure out why.
No one that is except me, the casual sports fan. Moneyball has taught me a lot over the years and there are two things that matter more than anything 1) being able to play your position on defense flawlessly and 2) your on base percentage. Even when Punto's batting average suffers, he still gets on base more than most players on his team.
He knows how to win. He's a winner.
Home Court Advantage Continues
OKC evened the series with the Spurs last night. Is there any other sport where home court/field matters this much? It's pretty bizarre when you think about it.
Mauer Power
Joe had three hits and three RBI last night including a two-run homer. Another month of that kind of hitting and I'll change my mind about him some.
Sadly, P.J. was just average yesterday. 4 earned runs in just four innings isn't going to keep him in the majors. Okay, on the TWINS that actually may be good enough.
Best defense? Ben Revere made a pretty nice catch. The Twins beat the second place Indians 7-4. I guess that's the only stat that really matters.
Sadly, P.J. was just average yesterday. 4 earned runs in just four innings isn't going to keep him in the majors. Okay, on the TWINS that actually may be good enough.
Best defense? Ben Revere made a pretty nice catch. The Twins beat the second place Indians 7-4. I guess that's the only stat that really matters.
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Home Court Advantage
Boston, much like OKC the night before, showed why playing at home is so important for good NBA franchises. Last night it was the Celtics who dominated the Heat. At one point the Celtics had a 24 point lead.
Both NBA series are now at 2 games to 1. Each home team has won every game so far.
Both NBA series are now at 2 games to 1. Each home team has won every game so far.
No-Hitter
The Mets had never had a no-hitter. Former Twin, Johan Santana had never had one either. That ended last night as Johan became the second ex-Twin to pitch a no=hitter this season. (Phil Humber had a perfect game for the White Sox April 21st.)
Santana missed last season because of shoulder surgery. He was on a strict pitch count because of his recovery, but the manager left him throw 134 pitches (a career high) to give him his shot at history.
There is a bit of a controversy, though. Carlos Beltran hit a scorcher down the third-base line in the sixth inning. The ump ruled it foul. Replay showed that it hit the chalk line. The umpire did not comment after the game.
I'm not giving the Twins loss last night it's own headline. Their three game win-streak came to a screeching halt last night as Cleveland clubbed them 7-1.
Santana missed last season because of shoulder surgery. He was on a strict pitch count because of his recovery, but the manager left him throw 134 pitches (a career high) to give him his shot at history.
There is a bit of a controversy, though. Carlos Beltran hit a scorcher down the third-base line in the sixth inning. The ump ruled it foul. Replay showed that it hit the chalk line. The umpire did not comment after the game.
I'm not giving the Twins loss last night it's own headline. Their three game win-streak came to a screeching halt last night as Cleveland clubbed them 7-1.
Friday, June 1, 2012
Over-Valued
Here's an interesting stat I came across.
I've said from the beginning that the Twins were really stupid to invest so much money into Joe Mauer long-term. Even if he starts having better seasons, you simply cannot justify spending that much money on a guy who cannot consistently hit for power and RBI. Looking at on base percentage this year, he's only the 19th best number 3 hitter in baseball. A-Rod might be a bit more overpriced, but it's not hard to argue that Mauer is being paid way too much for what he does.
Notice how several guys on this list aren't even making a million dollars this season. Excuse the typesetting problems. Blogger can't do tabs.
1) Hamilton OBP 1321 $15.25 Million
2) Kemp 1173 $10.25
3) Wright 1080 $15.25
4) Votto 1059 $11.41
5) Beltran 1058 $13
6) Ortiz 1026 $14.575
7) Braun 1022 $7.399
8) Dunn 993 $14
9) Joyce 939 $.5
10) C. Gonzalez 928 $5.43
11) A. Cabrera 906 $4.55
12) Me. Cabrera 900 $6
13) McCutcheon 899 $.7
14) Reddick 874 $.5
15) Freeman 847 $.5
16) Mi. Cabrera 830 $21
17) A-Rod 808 $30
18) Markakis 801 $12.35
19) Mauer 793 $23 Million
I've said from the beginning that the Twins were really stupid to invest so much money into Joe Mauer long-term. Even if he starts having better seasons, you simply cannot justify spending that much money on a guy who cannot consistently hit for power and RBI. Looking at on base percentage this year, he's only the 19th best number 3 hitter in baseball. A-Rod might be a bit more overpriced, but it's not hard to argue that Mauer is being paid way too much for what he does.
Notice how several guys on this list aren't even making a million dollars this season. Excuse the typesetting problems. Blogger can't do tabs.
1) Hamilton OBP 1321 $15.25 Million
2) Kemp 1173 $10.25
3) Wright 1080 $15.25
4) Votto 1059 $11.41
5) Beltran 1058 $13
6) Ortiz 1026 $14.575
7) Braun 1022 $7.399
8) Dunn 993 $14
9) Joyce 939 $.5
10) C. Gonzalez 928 $5.43
11) A. Cabrera 906 $4.55
12) Me. Cabrera 900 $6
13) McCutcheon 899 $.7
14) Reddick 874 $.5
15) Freeman 847 $.5
16) Mi. Cabrera 830 $21
17) A-Rod 808 $30
18) Markakis 801 $12.35
19) Mauer 793 $23 Million
OKC Whips Spurs
San Antonio looked so bad last night that I simply stopped watching. This may become a series yet.
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