Jason Lane not for the bigtime and sent down to AAA. This is major error.
Lane has done far more than he was expected to and not just his 5 hrs and .353 average, but even more was the reliability and consistency of a very good bat which is an aberration for the current Jays lineup. He was no slouch in the outfield either. Jason Lane was a shoo in for the Toronto squad.
The choices are obviously two of the following three, Lind, Snider or Lane. And it was an interesting coincidence to see Snider’s three base errors yesterday against Detroit when he misjudged Inge’s fly ball. That is not the first time his outfield weaknesses have been shown. Similarly with Lind in left field he is not a strong outfielder and he cannot run.
The future is definitely Lind and Snider but I argue not yet. Snider is 21 and needs to play everyday. He will not play everyday in Toronto if Rios, Wells and Lind are the outfield. Putting him in each game at the end of the game and giving rotating day off for the starting three will help, but there is no consistency here that playing everyday in AAA would give. You can’t have a guy like this sitting on the bench.
Lane has shown that he is far too good a player right NOW to send down to AAA. There will be and should be other major league clubs interested in him, and I am sure that he has asked his agent to do just that. There is no value for Lane to play in AAA at this stage of his career. He won a place outright in the Toronto squad, he has a great pedigree, this guy has World Series experience and I think Jays have blown this one big-time. What was the point of inviting him to Spring training ?? He achieved far beyond expectations and was merely the best hitter in the squad. What more could he do ?
Of course you can’t help wonder whether or not this is (the stubborn) Cito convincing JP that wearing his hitting coach hat he can continue to work with Lind and Snider in Toronto and to take credit for creating the next 100rbi bats. Cito you are a Manager now. If you want to be the hitting coach then let someone else be Manager.
The other Lane issue related concern that many fans have, is the output (or lack) of Wells and Rios. If they even performed at 75% of their potential then the Lane issue would not be important but for the last three seasons these two have underperformed day after day after day.
Vernon’s ground ball double plays are a joke, Rios swinging at pitches down and away, pop ups etc etc ….
Adams, Emaus and Campbell to AAA are no surprise. Adams should have gone down at least two weeks ago. Emaus and Campbell will both be back in September if not before. Emaus is a great back up for Hill and has a much better bat. Campbell also has a great bat.
No, to my mind this spring will be remembered for the poor decision re Lane as last spring was the poor decision on Reed Johnson and the Toronto fans have lost out on seeing a very consistent and powerful hitter in the lineup. With the Toronto rotation in a mess they need hitters and they need consistent hitters.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Jays and Yankees win big today
Thursday March 26, 2009
Jays v Braves.
Good comeback win for Jays today with the young guys.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett, Mathews, Lind, Millar, Lane, Bautista, Chavez and McDonald with Mills pitching and hitting.
Braves: Johnson, Escobar, Jones, McCann, Francouer, Norton, Jones, Schater and Lowe pitching and hitting.
Jays come back to win this one 7-6 in the last two innings after being down 5-1 going into the eighth. Dials has the save.
Mills goes six innings today and kept them in it which is all one hopes for. Ten hits four runs, all earned, one walk and three strikeouts.
Did he do enough to tie down that rotation spot? At this stage I don’t think Jays have many options left.
Hayhurst one inning, two hits and his first run of the spring takes his ERA to 1.13.
Accardo gets the win with his one inning and Dials the save, both with scoreless innings.
Jays hits all singles today and spread around Mathews, who continues to impress but another outfielder in an overcrowded spot. Cooper Lane, Shoffit, Bautista, Campbell, Chavez , Johnny Mc and Dopirak. Cooper and Mathews had two hits each.
Rbis Johnny Mc, Campbell his number11 for the spring. Mathews, Adams and Cooper.
Not many first team in this lineup and pitchers had to bat. A good road win for Jays against a NL team that I have picked to win NLCS.
Meanwhile over at Bright House in great sun Yankees are stirring and show power in thrashing the Phillies 10-2 today. In another sell out. Scalpers did very well.
Lineups: Yankees: Jeter (leading off ??) , Damon, Teixeira, Matsui, Swisher, Cano, Ransom, Molina, Cabrera and Chamberlain pitching.
Phillies: Rollins, Victorino, Uttley, Howard, Ibanez, Werth, Stairs, Feliz, Paulino and Carrasco pitching.
HR power from Matsui, Ransom, Swisher and Cabrera.
Doubles from Jeter, Linden, Cash and Cano.
Rbis from Matsui, Ransom, Damon, Cabrera, Swisher, Linden and Cash.
Chamberlain starting and gave 4 1/3 innings but that was enough for Phillies to get there only runs of the afternoon. Yankees bullpen closes them down for the rest of the game.
Yankees had many of their starting lineup today and so did the Phillies.
Uttley and Howard have HRs and the only runs. Both of the off Chamberlain with two out in that first inning giving hope to the faithful but not to be. Stairs another double.
Carrasco takes the loss in five innings of work but Eyre had a horrible inning five hits, five runs all earned and two hr’s .
And that is it friends for my Dunedin Spring, time to head north and as I drove by Jays clubhouse the sight of the Campbell moving van is that the Jays are also starting to pack to head to Toronto. Two more home games ending with Washington next Wednesday. Jays rotation still unsettled but the lineup stronger.
Overall I think it was a much better spring than I had thought it would be.
JP has assembled and developed a great deal of depth in pitching and hitting in the farm teams. He will have no problem reaching out to AAA Vegas for either if he needs. I think the lineup on paper is far stronger than last season heading out of spring. And Jays could surprise this season.
But that is what spring is all about, hope…. And starting the season level in first place with Yankees, Boston, and the Rays (and Orioles...)
Let’s see in the Fall….
Jays v Braves.
Good comeback win for Jays today with the young guys.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett, Mathews, Lind, Millar, Lane, Bautista, Chavez and McDonald with Mills pitching and hitting.
Braves: Johnson, Escobar, Jones, McCann, Francouer, Norton, Jones, Schater and Lowe pitching and hitting.
Jays come back to win this one 7-6 in the last two innings after being down 5-1 going into the eighth. Dials has the save.
Mills goes six innings today and kept them in it which is all one hopes for. Ten hits four runs, all earned, one walk and three strikeouts.
Did he do enough to tie down that rotation spot? At this stage I don’t think Jays have many options left.
Hayhurst one inning, two hits and his first run of the spring takes his ERA to 1.13.
Accardo gets the win with his one inning and Dials the save, both with scoreless innings.
Jays hits all singles today and spread around Mathews, who continues to impress but another outfielder in an overcrowded spot. Cooper Lane, Shoffit, Bautista, Campbell, Chavez , Johnny Mc and Dopirak. Cooper and Mathews had two hits each.
Rbis Johnny Mc, Campbell his number11 for the spring. Mathews, Adams and Cooper.
Not many first team in this lineup and pitchers had to bat. A good road win for Jays against a NL team that I have picked to win NLCS.
Meanwhile over at Bright House in great sun Yankees are stirring and show power in thrashing the Phillies 10-2 today. In another sell out. Scalpers did very well.
Lineups: Yankees: Jeter (leading off ??) , Damon, Teixeira, Matsui, Swisher, Cano, Ransom, Molina, Cabrera and Chamberlain pitching.
Phillies: Rollins, Victorino, Uttley, Howard, Ibanez, Werth, Stairs, Feliz, Paulino and Carrasco pitching.
HR power from Matsui, Ransom, Swisher and Cabrera.
Doubles from Jeter, Linden, Cash and Cano.
Rbis from Matsui, Ransom, Damon, Cabrera, Swisher, Linden and Cash.
Chamberlain starting and gave 4 1/3 innings but that was enough for Phillies to get there only runs of the afternoon. Yankees bullpen closes them down for the rest of the game.
Yankees had many of their starting lineup today and so did the Phillies.
Uttley and Howard have HRs and the only runs. Both of the off Chamberlain with two out in that first inning giving hope to the faithful but not to be. Stairs another double.
Carrasco takes the loss in five innings of work but Eyre had a horrible inning five hits, five runs all earned and two hr’s .
And that is it friends for my Dunedin Spring, time to head north and as I drove by Jays clubhouse the sight of the Campbell moving van is that the Jays are also starting to pack to head to Toronto. Two more home games ending with Washington next Wednesday. Jays rotation still unsettled but the lineup stronger.
Overall I think it was a much better spring than I had thought it would be.
JP has assembled and developed a great deal of depth in pitching and hitting in the farm teams. He will have no problem reaching out to AAA Vegas for either if he needs. I think the lineup on paper is far stronger than last season heading out of spring. And Jays could surprise this season.
But that is what spring is all about, hope…. And starting the season level in first place with Yankees, Boston, and the Rays (and Orioles...)
Let’s see in the Fall….
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Monthly Report Card and Dirk who ?
No game today. Jays have off day.
Dirk Hayhurst has turned a few heads in Dunedin this month.
Currently posts a .000 ERA in six games, seven innings, faced twenty six hitters, five hits and twelve strikeouts, and that’s it friends. No runs, no walks.
Who is Dirk Von Hayhurst ? Ex-Padre. born March 24 , 1981. The Jays signed him to a minor league contract for the 2009 season, with an invitation to major league spring training.
In 2008 he appeared in 10 games, three starts, for the Padres, posting a 0-2 record with a 9.72 ERA. Made his debut in August 2008 against Barry Zito. The 6'3", 200 lb., right-hander spent most of 2008 with Portland (AAA) of the Pacific Coast League, going 2-3 with two saves and a 3.75 ERA in 46 games, two starts. He added 98 strikeouts in 84.0 IP. The native of Canton, Ohio had been released by the Blue Jays on February 10, 2009 to make room on the roster for RHP Matt Bush. But is still with camp and pitches against the Braves tomorrow.
BUT friends you have to check this out…for those of you have not already found this. Dirk is also a great writer and extremely funny.
Check out his 'Non-Prospect Diary' for Baseball America. He also writes for the Canton Repository his hometown newspaper in Canton (Ohio)
Baseball needs more Dirk von Hayhursts… to balance out some of the negatives.
No game today and a perfect opportunity to provide the monthly report card on the Jays after watching them here for the last four weeks.
Starting with the hitters. Cito I will include you at the end.
A ++
Jason Lane without a doubt…. There is always one standout in spring who comes out of nowhere to make the fans sit up. Jason was that guy this Spring. Lane .375 avge18 games, 48ab 8 runs, 18 hits 5 doubles, 5 hrs 12 rbis 2 walks
Emaus also makes the A++ Great power in his bat and good insurance for Hill at second if needed. .333 avge 19 games, 39 ab 13 hits 11 runs, 4 doubles, triple 3 hrs and 11rbis
A+
Lind Snider, but with Snider outperforming Lind.. Hill looked very good and showing no signs of last year’s concussion. .314 avge 14 games, 35 ab, 4 runs and 11 hits 7 doubles, 5 rbis.
Kevin Millar definitely an asset. 250 avge but 11 games, 24 ab 3 runs 6hits, 2dbles 2 hrs 9 rbis. Toronto fans will also like him, he is a fans player, and a lot of fun.
Rolen, I thought looked very good, strong, focused and hitting for power, had two great hustlng triples. 9 games, 18ab, 3 runs, 6hits, 2 dbles, 2triples and HR with 3 walks.
B+ Barrett, in the last ten days Michael Barrett has really turned it up. And deserves the backup catcher role. I still feel Chavez has a better arm but he will be playing a lot more in AAA than he would in Toronto. Barrett’s bat is very good and his arm is above average.
Campbell, this young guy, I think he is still only 19 had a great spring, great prospect .257 avge 19 games, 35 ab 9 hits 3 dbls 1 triple and 9 rbis. Watch this one. Mathews really liked this guy hustle, .259 avge. 10 games 20 ab 5 hits, 3 runs 2 doubles.
B Overbay. Lyle started to show signs but at first very tentative swings. 238 avge. 8 games, 21ab, 2 runs, 5 hits, 1 dbl 1 HR and 4 rbis…
Wells, Vernon out most of spring with hamstring injury, hard to judge but he did look good this week.
B- Barajas but only because we have not seen enough of him this spring as he was at WBC. 4 ganes 10 ab a nd 2 hits not enough.
B- Johnny Mc. Definitely not the starting SS this season, did not have a good spring despite being out there with Scutaro on WBC duty. .143 avge, 14 games, 35abs 5 hits, 2 dbls 2rbis is not going to do it.
B- Chavez also, showed a great arm and pickoff throw. His bat not as strong as Barrett but will be a great defensive backup one day.
B- Rios 333 avg. 6 games 12 ab. 2 runs 4 hits 2dbls and 2rbis 3 walks. Will need to really achieve this season as there are several better players waiting. I wish he could capture some of the younger guys.
C Adams and on his way to AAA Vegas.Sad to see this guy every year just cannot make it. And we all remember the Hill and Adams sell, the Jays infield basis for the franchise. Whatever happened ?
Inglett, .211 avge and hard to know where to put this guy. 14 games, 38ab 4runs, 8hits 1 dble, 1 triple and that’s it. 2 errors.
Thigpen also. 27 abs 4hits but 2hrs. one a walk off game winner. Where will he be catching if Chavez is AAA, Jerolman at AA.. Back up to Chavez ?
Difficult to rate: Howie Clark 5 games 7ab and 3 hits. Cody Lee Haerther with his 1,000 average in his two at bats…will check him out throughout the season. Patterson and Phillips. Scutaro looked good but not enough games.
Buck Coats certainly not the fireball he was in spring training 2008 11 ab 3 hits.
My big concern with the hitters: Of the 106 rbis so far. Campbell 9, Emaus 11 Lane 12, Lind 8, Millar 9, and Snider 8. That is more than 50%... from 6 players four of whom who may not even be in the lineup.
Pitching: always difficult to rate as they all maintain they are tweaking, adding new pitches or “working on something”. Starting rotation
B + Litsch, not bad all spring.
B + Purcey and Mills
B. Halladay had two lousy outings with 5 hrs given up…
B Richmond
Number 5 is still a fight between Romero and Mills,
Bullpen:
A++ Carlson tremendous spring. 3 innnings 0.00 ERA.
A++ Hayhurst also. 7 innings 5 hits and 0.00 ERA
A + Camp also excellent. Downs above average.
B . BJ Ryan still mixed results but hard to judge a closer who needs the 9th inning adrenaline to get him fred up.
Tallet average not great , Accardo a couple of bad outings. Same with League especially yesterday with giving up 3 runs.
Should not go up: Frasor. Wolfe still injured Janssen who know re his shoulder.. but don’t start him until he is stronger or his arm could be finished. And McGowan will he or won’t he start before All-Star break ? I doubt it…
Sorry to see Maroth and Clement optioned and I for one hope that Clement proves them wrong. I like his arm and his experience. And I think he could be in Toronto before end of the summer.
Competitions. Outfield.
Lane Before yesterday’s game. .375 average 18 games, 48 ab 8 runs, 18 hits, 5 doubles, 5 hrs 12 rbis. 2 walks That is on track for a 40 HR 100rbi season.
Now Lind who is his compettition..325 avge 15 games, 40 at bats 4 runs 13 hits, 1 double 1 triple 1 hr 8 rbis. 4 walks. I donlt know friends it looks clear to me…
Snider: 361 avge 13 games 36 ab 5runs 13 hits 3 doubles, 3 hrs 8rbis 1 walk . Does lind deserve this over Lane ? his stats are worse than Snider.
Catcher: Looks like Barret has the back up role.
DH good question, should be Millar and backing up Overbay. But will depend on what they do in the outfield with Lane and Lind… Should be Lane and give Lind daily paly in AAA, he is still only 21… but don’t put him on the bench pinch hitting at he ene dof every game…or platooning DH with Millar.
And Cito leave you to the last BUT I think you had a great Spring camp here, far better than last year’s confsuon with Reed, Frank Thomas and Shannon Stewart and a slew of pitchers who didn’t work out.
AND I give you A++ for yesterday’s game showing a new aggression. Double steal of Wells and Rolen and delayed steal to score.
I know that many Toronto fans would love to see more of this in Toronto… makes for a much beter game to watch and it looks as if this team will need every edge it can get.
But overall I have been more impressed than I thought I would be and I hope this team can shock a few observers who have already written this team off.
Will be interesting to see how many words I have to eat in the next six months.
And finally friends will leave you with this one.
In 2013 Hall of Fame nominees will now include Biggio, Bonds, Clemons, Schilling and Sosa…
Any bets?
Dirk Hayhurst has turned a few heads in Dunedin this month.
Currently posts a .000 ERA in six games, seven innings, faced twenty six hitters, five hits and twelve strikeouts, and that’s it friends. No runs, no walks.
Who is Dirk Von Hayhurst ? Ex-Padre. born March 24 , 1981. The Jays signed him to a minor league contract for the 2009 season, with an invitation to major league spring training.
In 2008 he appeared in 10 games, three starts, for the Padres, posting a 0-2 record with a 9.72 ERA. Made his debut in August 2008 against Barry Zito. The 6'3", 200 lb., right-hander spent most of 2008 with Portland (AAA) of the Pacific Coast League, going 2-3 with two saves and a 3.75 ERA in 46 games, two starts. He added 98 strikeouts in 84.0 IP. The native of Canton, Ohio had been released by the Blue Jays on February 10, 2009 to make room on the roster for RHP Matt Bush. But is still with camp and pitches against the Braves tomorrow.
BUT friends you have to check this out…for those of you have not already found this. Dirk is also a great writer and extremely funny.
Check out his 'Non-Prospect Diary' for Baseball America. He also writes for the Canton Repository his hometown newspaper in Canton (Ohio)
Baseball needs more Dirk von Hayhursts… to balance out some of the negatives.
No game today and a perfect opportunity to provide the monthly report card on the Jays after watching them here for the last four weeks.
Starting with the hitters. Cito I will include you at the end.
A ++
Jason Lane without a doubt…. There is always one standout in spring who comes out of nowhere to make the fans sit up. Jason was that guy this Spring. Lane .375 avge18 games, 48ab 8 runs, 18 hits 5 doubles, 5 hrs 12 rbis 2 walks
Emaus also makes the A++ Great power in his bat and good insurance for Hill at second if needed. .333 avge 19 games, 39 ab 13 hits 11 runs, 4 doubles, triple 3 hrs and 11rbis
A+
Lind Snider, but with Snider outperforming Lind.. Hill looked very good and showing no signs of last year’s concussion. .314 avge 14 games, 35 ab, 4 runs and 11 hits 7 doubles, 5 rbis.
Kevin Millar definitely an asset. 250 avge but 11 games, 24 ab 3 runs 6hits, 2dbles 2 hrs 9 rbis. Toronto fans will also like him, he is a fans player, and a lot of fun.
Rolen, I thought looked very good, strong, focused and hitting for power, had two great hustlng triples. 9 games, 18ab, 3 runs, 6hits, 2 dbles, 2triples and HR with 3 walks.
B+ Barrett, in the last ten days Michael Barrett has really turned it up. And deserves the backup catcher role. I still feel Chavez has a better arm but he will be playing a lot more in AAA than he would in Toronto. Barrett’s bat is very good and his arm is above average.
Campbell, this young guy, I think he is still only 19 had a great spring, great prospect .257 avge 19 games, 35 ab 9 hits 3 dbls 1 triple and 9 rbis. Watch this one. Mathews really liked this guy hustle, .259 avge. 10 games 20 ab 5 hits, 3 runs 2 doubles.
B Overbay. Lyle started to show signs but at first very tentative swings. 238 avge. 8 games, 21ab, 2 runs, 5 hits, 1 dbl 1 HR and 4 rbis…
Wells, Vernon out most of spring with hamstring injury, hard to judge but he did look good this week.
B- Barajas but only because we have not seen enough of him this spring as he was at WBC. 4 ganes 10 ab a nd 2 hits not enough.
B- Johnny Mc. Definitely not the starting SS this season, did not have a good spring despite being out there with Scutaro on WBC duty. .143 avge, 14 games, 35abs 5 hits, 2 dbls 2rbis is not going to do it.
B- Chavez also, showed a great arm and pickoff throw. His bat not as strong as Barrett but will be a great defensive backup one day.
B- Rios 333 avg. 6 games 12 ab. 2 runs 4 hits 2dbls and 2rbis 3 walks. Will need to really achieve this season as there are several better players waiting. I wish he could capture some of the younger guys.
C Adams and on his way to AAA Vegas.Sad to see this guy every year just cannot make it. And we all remember the Hill and Adams sell, the Jays infield basis for the franchise. Whatever happened ?
Inglett, .211 avge and hard to know where to put this guy. 14 games, 38ab 4runs, 8hits 1 dble, 1 triple and that’s it. 2 errors.
Thigpen also. 27 abs 4hits but 2hrs. one a walk off game winner. Where will he be catching if Chavez is AAA, Jerolman at AA.. Back up to Chavez ?
Difficult to rate: Howie Clark 5 games 7ab and 3 hits. Cody Lee Haerther with his 1,000 average in his two at bats…will check him out throughout the season. Patterson and Phillips. Scutaro looked good but not enough games.
Buck Coats certainly not the fireball he was in spring training 2008 11 ab 3 hits.
My big concern with the hitters: Of the 106 rbis so far. Campbell 9, Emaus 11 Lane 12, Lind 8, Millar 9, and Snider 8. That is more than 50%... from 6 players four of whom who may not even be in the lineup.
Pitching: always difficult to rate as they all maintain they are tweaking, adding new pitches or “working on something”. Starting rotation
B + Litsch, not bad all spring.
B + Purcey and Mills
B. Halladay had two lousy outings with 5 hrs given up…
B Richmond
Number 5 is still a fight between Romero and Mills,
Bullpen:
A++ Carlson tremendous spring. 3 innnings 0.00 ERA.
A++ Hayhurst also. 7 innings 5 hits and 0.00 ERA
A + Camp also excellent. Downs above average.
B . BJ Ryan still mixed results but hard to judge a closer who needs the 9th inning adrenaline to get him fred up.
Tallet average not great , Accardo a couple of bad outings. Same with League especially yesterday with giving up 3 runs.
Should not go up: Frasor. Wolfe still injured Janssen who know re his shoulder.. but don’t start him until he is stronger or his arm could be finished. And McGowan will he or won’t he start before All-Star break ? I doubt it…
Sorry to see Maroth and Clement optioned and I for one hope that Clement proves them wrong. I like his arm and his experience. And I think he could be in Toronto before end of the summer.
Competitions. Outfield.
Lane Before yesterday’s game. .375 average 18 games, 48 ab 8 runs, 18 hits, 5 doubles, 5 hrs 12 rbis. 2 walks That is on track for a 40 HR 100rbi season.
Now Lind who is his compettition..325 avge 15 games, 40 at bats 4 runs 13 hits, 1 double 1 triple 1 hr 8 rbis. 4 walks. I donlt know friends it looks clear to me…
Snider: 361 avge 13 games 36 ab 5runs 13 hits 3 doubles, 3 hrs 8rbis 1 walk . Does lind deserve this over Lane ? his stats are worse than Snider.
Catcher: Looks like Barret has the back up role.
DH good question, should be Millar and backing up Overbay. But will depend on what they do in the outfield with Lane and Lind… Should be Lane and give Lind daily paly in AAA, he is still only 21… but don’t put him on the bench pinch hitting at he ene dof every game…or platooning DH with Millar.
And Cito leave you to the last BUT I think you had a great Spring camp here, far better than last year’s confsuon with Reed, Frank Thomas and Shannon Stewart and a slew of pitchers who didn’t work out.
AND I give you A++ for yesterday’s game showing a new aggression. Double steal of Wells and Rolen and delayed steal to score.
I know that many Toronto fans would love to see more of this in Toronto… makes for a much beter game to watch and it looks as if this team will need every edge it can get.
But overall I have been more impressed than I thought I would be and I hope this team can shock a few observers who have already written this team off.
Will be interesting to see how many words I have to eat in the next six months.
And finally friends will leave you with this one.
In 2013 Hall of Fame nominees will now include Biggio, Bonds, Clemons, Schilling and Sosa…
Any bets?
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Jays give this one away twice.
Tuesday March 24, 2009. Jays v Phillies in Dunedin. Jays lose 7-6.
Lineups: Phillies: Rollins, Victorino, Utley, Howard, Werth, Ibanez, Felz, Coste and Ruiz with Park pitching.
Jays: Scutaro, Hill, Rios, Wells, Rolen, Millar Lind, Barajas, Snider and Purcey pitching. Power lineup today with Snider batting at ninth !!!
Jays take early 3-0 lead then 4-1. Phillies scratch back to tie it up 4-4, Jays again take a two run lead into top of the ninth where Phillies score three off League.
Jays get bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth but a controversial call that even Cito argued (in Spring ??) and Jays tying run was disallowed. Lane gives one a ride in the bottom of the inning but not enough today.
Some surprises today. Who was coaching the Jays ? Double steal and then a delayed steal to bring home runner from third. Aggression today from Cito, great to see. Perhaps more of it in the regular season ??
Purcey goes six today, not a bad outing although eight hits only two runs and kept the Jays in this one, two walks and the HR to Werth. BJ Ryan gives up a two run shot to Utley in the seventh and does not have a great outing. Downs had one hitless inning with a walk. Then in the ninth League could not hold the Phillies.
This one the Jays had…. Twice…
Todays hits for Jays two hits each for Scutaro leading off, Wells and Barrett who looks as if he has that back up catcher spot locked now.
Doubles for Wells, Millar, Scutaro, Barrett and Campbell.Two rbis for Millar and Wells, Campbell and Philliips get the others. Mathews, Wells, Rolen and Snider all have stolen bases today..
Snider had an unfortunate double error play dropping the ball and then fumbling the throw.
Lind had an assist on a great throw to get Feliz at home plate. Rios hitless today with one walk. Both sides had problem with the swirling wind today dropping catchable balls.
Good game but one that the Jays should have enjoyed winning.
Lineups: Phillies: Rollins, Victorino, Utley, Howard, Werth, Ibanez, Felz, Coste and Ruiz with Park pitching.
Jays: Scutaro, Hill, Rios, Wells, Rolen, Millar Lind, Barajas, Snider and Purcey pitching. Power lineup today with Snider batting at ninth !!!
Jays take early 3-0 lead then 4-1. Phillies scratch back to tie it up 4-4, Jays again take a two run lead into top of the ninth where Phillies score three off League.
Jays get bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth but a controversial call that even Cito argued (in Spring ??) and Jays tying run was disallowed. Lane gives one a ride in the bottom of the inning but not enough today.
Some surprises today. Who was coaching the Jays ? Double steal and then a delayed steal to bring home runner from third. Aggression today from Cito, great to see. Perhaps more of it in the regular season ??
Purcey goes six today, not a bad outing although eight hits only two runs and kept the Jays in this one, two walks and the HR to Werth. BJ Ryan gives up a two run shot to Utley in the seventh and does not have a great outing. Downs had one hitless inning with a walk. Then in the ninth League could not hold the Phillies.
This one the Jays had…. Twice…
Todays hits for Jays two hits each for Scutaro leading off, Wells and Barrett who looks as if he has that back up catcher spot locked now.
Doubles for Wells, Millar, Scutaro, Barrett and Campbell.Two rbis for Millar and Wells, Campbell and Philliips get the others. Mathews, Wells, Rolen and Snider all have stolen bases today..
Snider had an unfortunate double error play dropping the ball and then fumbling the throw.
Lind had an assist on a great throw to get Feliz at home plate. Rios hitless today with one walk. Both sides had problem with the swirling wind today dropping catchable balls.
Good game but one that the Jays should have enjoyed winning.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Optimism pays off but not for Jays or Yankees today.
Monday March 23,2009. Jays v Reds.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett DH !, what waste of a good bench bat, Hill, Rios, Wells, Rolen, Ruiz, Chavez, McDonald and Ricky Romero pitching.(and didn’t hit)
Reds: Hopper, Dickerson, Toronto’s own Joey Votto, Rosales, Bruce, Keppinger, Gonzalez, Hanigan, pitching but also number nine hitter Volquez.
Jays had not much luck today for second game in a row despite starting many of Opening Day lineup. The disturbing thing to me however is the lack of offence, no runs today from a lineup that had many of opening day hitters. Jays were in fact shut out as the Reds get runs in the first, fifth and eighth innings to do more than necessary to beat this team today.
Very disappointing performance by the Jays. Rios and Wells with their six at bats had a walk for Alex and a single to Vernon to show for it.
We have been spoiled all spring by Millar, Lane, Lind, Snider and Emaus. Cito don’t plan to go far through the season with these two underperforming again, fans patience with them is running out.
Jays get hits from Hill (two) raising his average to .314, Wells, Rolen and Chavez each had the others. Three walks Rolen, Rios and Bautista but no value at all if no one can bring them in.
Pitching was a lot better than yesterday Romero looking at a rotation spot, went five innings giving up seven hits but only two runs. He did his job by keeping Jays in the game.
Burres had a good two scoreless relief innings with two strikeouts. And Accardo not sharp in his one inning two hits today including a triple to Janish, and one run.
Rolen his second triple of the week. Hill a stolen base and Rios an assist with a great throw getting Bruce at third base. Reds were running on Romero and Chavez could only get Dickerson stealing once today.
Tomorrow Jays get the Phillies at Dunedin.
Which Jays team will show up to play?
Monday March 23, 2009. Phillies v Yankees at Bright House. Phillies win 8-3.
Lineups: Yankees: Posada, Damon, Texeira, Nady, Cano, Ransom, Cabrera, Pena, and Wang pitching.
Phillies: Bruntlett (three hits today), Werth, Uttley, Howard, Ibanez, Stairs, Donald, Paulino and Happ pitching and batting number nine.
At Bright House whilst Jays were on the road, Phillies take on the Yankees. Long rain delay.. which started right at the end of Yankees batting practice and game was delayed at least forty minutes. Rain? Yes Rain, in Clearwater. The first this guy has seen in four weeks and everyone was very happy to see it to help with the drought conditions.
Yankees get beaten up in this one…in front of sellout of course. Phillies win going away 8-3. But for this fan the big thrill was seeing Matt Stairs hit that HR. They love Stairs at Bright House and he connected on one from Bruney in the sixth to break this open with two rbis in the four run inning.
Wang gave the Yankees five good innings giving up three earned runs. Happ for the Phillies more than matched with him with his five innings and only two runs. Ibanez three hits today including two doubles. Bruntlett and Ibanez combined for six of the twelve hits by Phillies. Jayson Werth and Donald both had stolen bases.
Cairo had a two run HR in the seventh for the Phillies but Yankees today could not get the ball over the fence. They will be back on Thursday at Bright House. Jeter should be back from the WBC.
Only 67 today with a wind and rain…. Felt like Toronto.
The optimist… The guy at bright House who has been selling raincoats all Spring throughout the drought.. Today he struck it rich….
Yes Ingoldisthorpe Jay, Michelle Smith was playing last night but women do not normally play in the spring training games, this was an exhibition charity game. The old-timers traveling around raising money.
Melbourne Jay, your friends at Bright House missed you today.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett DH !, what waste of a good bench bat, Hill, Rios, Wells, Rolen, Ruiz, Chavez, McDonald and Ricky Romero pitching.(and didn’t hit)
Reds: Hopper, Dickerson, Toronto’s own Joey Votto, Rosales, Bruce, Keppinger, Gonzalez, Hanigan, pitching but also number nine hitter Volquez.
Jays had not much luck today for second game in a row despite starting many of Opening Day lineup. The disturbing thing to me however is the lack of offence, no runs today from a lineup that had many of opening day hitters. Jays were in fact shut out as the Reds get runs in the first, fifth and eighth innings to do more than necessary to beat this team today.
Very disappointing performance by the Jays. Rios and Wells with their six at bats had a walk for Alex and a single to Vernon to show for it.
We have been spoiled all spring by Millar, Lane, Lind, Snider and Emaus. Cito don’t plan to go far through the season with these two underperforming again, fans patience with them is running out.
Jays get hits from Hill (two) raising his average to .314, Wells, Rolen and Chavez each had the others. Three walks Rolen, Rios and Bautista but no value at all if no one can bring them in.
Pitching was a lot better than yesterday Romero looking at a rotation spot, went five innings giving up seven hits but only two runs. He did his job by keeping Jays in the game.
Burres had a good two scoreless relief innings with two strikeouts. And Accardo not sharp in his one inning two hits today including a triple to Janish, and one run.
Rolen his second triple of the week. Hill a stolen base and Rios an assist with a great throw getting Bruce at third base. Reds were running on Romero and Chavez could only get Dickerson stealing once today.
Tomorrow Jays get the Phillies at Dunedin.
Which Jays team will show up to play?
Monday March 23, 2009. Phillies v Yankees at Bright House. Phillies win 8-3.
Lineups: Yankees: Posada, Damon, Texeira, Nady, Cano, Ransom, Cabrera, Pena, and Wang pitching.
Phillies: Bruntlett (three hits today), Werth, Uttley, Howard, Ibanez, Stairs, Donald, Paulino and Happ pitching and batting number nine.
At Bright House whilst Jays were on the road, Phillies take on the Yankees. Long rain delay.. which started right at the end of Yankees batting practice and game was delayed at least forty minutes. Rain? Yes Rain, in Clearwater. The first this guy has seen in four weeks and everyone was very happy to see it to help with the drought conditions.
Yankees get beaten up in this one…in front of sellout of course. Phillies win going away 8-3. But for this fan the big thrill was seeing Matt Stairs hit that HR. They love Stairs at Bright House and he connected on one from Bruney in the sixth to break this open with two rbis in the four run inning.
Wang gave the Yankees five good innings giving up three earned runs. Happ for the Phillies more than matched with him with his five innings and only two runs. Ibanez three hits today including two doubles. Bruntlett and Ibanez combined for six of the twelve hits by Phillies. Jayson Werth and Donald both had stolen bases.
Cairo had a two run HR in the seventh for the Phillies but Yankees today could not get the ball over the fence. They will be back on Thursday at Bright House. Jeter should be back from the WBC.
Only 67 today with a wind and rain…. Felt like Toronto.
The optimist… The guy at bright House who has been selling raincoats all Spring throughout the drought.. Today he struck it rich….
Yes Ingoldisthorpe Jay, Michelle Smith was playing last night but women do not normally play in the spring training games, this was an exhibition charity game. The old-timers traveling around raising money.
Melbourne Jay, your friends at Bright House missed you today.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Tommy John, Gaylord Perry and Doug Flutie.
Sunday March 22, 2009. Jays v Twins Jays lose this one big 11-6.
John, Perry and Flutie. No not at Dunedin. More later.
Meanwhile on the road the boys in blue are getting beaten up again.
Not a good day for Clement and his rotation chances but he still gets my vote. Twins, who touched him for nine runs on six hits over 4 1/3 innings. Clement had control problems today with seven walks and finishing with 94 pitches and only 48 strikes. Also committed an error.
Jays like yesterday were actually winning this one until the eight run fifth. Scott Campbell delivered an RBI single in the second. Emaus and Lind each doubled in a run in the fifth. Michael Barrett also added an RBI single in the inning. Barret went 2-for-3 with a run scored helping him with his chance for backup catcher position.
Richmond, meantime also competing for a starting role allowed two runs on nine hits with five strikeouts and no walks over 3 2/3 innings.
BUT Jays get 15 hits same as Twins and score only six. Same old issue bringing the guy in. They spread them around again today with eleven players getting hits. Lane of course gets one in three at bats.
None of the first team on the bus today although Barajas did get a bat. The others are all fighting.
Barrett had another good game two hits and rbi and came around to score but Span did get a stolen base off Barrett.
Pitching all we saw today were Clement and Richmond.
Doubles today from Jackson, Emaus his fourth, Sierra, and Cooper.
No HRs today to help out Clement. And eleven singles. Campbell his number nine, Emaus his number eleven, Lind’s eighth, Barret and Sierra had the rbis.
Justin Morneau chose a good time for his first home run of the spring in the fifth inning, a three-run shot to left field.
On Monday Jays are in Sarasota, to face the Reds. Ricky Romero, gets the start and another chance for that fifth rotation spot. Now that Janssen has muscle tightness in his shoulder.
Legends Game.
Tonight Gaylord Perry “pitched” ? the first inning of the Legends game at Bright House Field. His first batter was none other than Doug Flutie… who was actually not bad tonight with his bat at least. A little rough in the field but in comparison to some of the old-timers he was lightening fast.
Another treat for baseball fans was seeing Tommy John pitch an inning. Not exactly at the peak of his career but the fans just want to see these guys out there. Mark Whitten ex-Jay was hitting them out in the Home Run derby and his team won. Michelle Smith of the Gold Medal USA softball team provided her usual overpowering stuff that no one could hit including Flutie (although to be fair there was one hit tonight). Last year no one could hit her. This year she pitched half inning against both teams to even it up !
The US Army delivered match balls via a helicopter on second base for more excitement. JP note for Rogers. A bit more flamboyant than Fed-Ex and the Blue Jays mascot.
Great evening and lots of money raised for charity. It is too bad that a larger crowd was not around to see it. In the afternoon the players had provided a baseball clinic for the children. Good event.
John, Perry and Flutie. No not at Dunedin. More later.
Meanwhile on the road the boys in blue are getting beaten up again.
Not a good day for Clement and his rotation chances but he still gets my vote. Twins, who touched him for nine runs on six hits over 4 1/3 innings. Clement had control problems today with seven walks and finishing with 94 pitches and only 48 strikes. Also committed an error.
Jays like yesterday were actually winning this one until the eight run fifth. Scott Campbell delivered an RBI single in the second. Emaus and Lind each doubled in a run in the fifth. Michael Barrett also added an RBI single in the inning. Barret went 2-for-3 with a run scored helping him with his chance for backup catcher position.
Richmond, meantime also competing for a starting role allowed two runs on nine hits with five strikeouts and no walks over 3 2/3 innings.
BUT Jays get 15 hits same as Twins and score only six. Same old issue bringing the guy in. They spread them around again today with eleven players getting hits. Lane of course gets one in three at bats.
None of the first team on the bus today although Barajas did get a bat. The others are all fighting.
Barrett had another good game two hits and rbi and came around to score but Span did get a stolen base off Barrett.
Pitching all we saw today were Clement and Richmond.
Doubles today from Jackson, Emaus his fourth, Sierra, and Cooper.
No HRs today to help out Clement. And eleven singles. Campbell his number nine, Emaus his number eleven, Lind’s eighth, Barret and Sierra had the rbis.
Justin Morneau chose a good time for his first home run of the spring in the fifth inning, a three-run shot to left field.
On Monday Jays are in Sarasota, to face the Reds. Ricky Romero, gets the start and another chance for that fifth rotation spot. Now that Janssen has muscle tightness in his shoulder.
Legends Game.
Tonight Gaylord Perry “pitched” ? the first inning of the Legends game at Bright House Field. His first batter was none other than Doug Flutie… who was actually not bad tonight with his bat at least. A little rough in the field but in comparison to some of the old-timers he was lightening fast.
Another treat for baseball fans was seeing Tommy John pitch an inning. Not exactly at the peak of his career but the fans just want to see these guys out there. Mark Whitten ex-Jay was hitting them out in the Home Run derby and his team won. Michelle Smith of the Gold Medal USA softball team provided her usual overpowering stuff that no one could hit including Flutie (although to be fair there was one hit tonight). Last year no one could hit her. This year she pitched half inning against both teams to even it up !
The US Army delivered match balls via a helicopter on second base for more excitement. JP note for Rogers. A bit more flamboyant than Fed-Ex and the Blue Jays mascot.
Great evening and lots of money raised for charity. It is too bad that a larger crowd was not around to see it. In the afternoon the players had provided a baseball clinic for the children. Good event.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Halladay blows this one after Jays take four run lead.
Saturday March 21, 2009. Jays v Astros in Dunedin.
Lineups: Astros: Bourn, Jaosn Smith, Michaels, Carlos Lee, Blum, Erstad, Newhan, Maysonet, Santangelo, and Cappellan pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Hill, Rios, Wells, Lind, Overbay, Rolen, Thigpen, McDoanld and Halladay pitching.
Baseball is a strange game… On paper this was a shoo-in for another Jays win.
Astros had won only two this spring and one of those was the first day of spring training. The other was yesterday. Halladay was pitching and determined to rebound from his last outing against Boston. Jays also had their big guys in the lineup for first time this spring… Rios, Wells, Overbay and Rolen. Add in Hill and Johnny Mc and what more could Halladay want?
Well the game still has to be played and today the Astros took it to Halladay early and the Jays to win this one 9-7.
Jays bench tried to make it close in the bottom of the ninth getting two runs and having go ahead run at the plate, but it was not to be.
Capellan who is in the running for the fifth spot in Houston's rotation, gave up five runs on seven hits with one walk in his five innings of work. Before this game, Capellan hadn't allowed any runs in his three previous appearances this Spring. He finished with 82 pitches, including 58 for strikes.
Pitched very well for four innings before Jays hitters solved him and scored five runs on six hits to go ahead 5-1, more than enough for Halladay to cruise? but no Halladay had a terrible sixth inning and Astros score 5 themselves to move ahead 6-5
Downs in his first outing of the spring gives up three runs including a two run HR shot by Santangelo in the eighth on two hits with one walk in one inning and now has a ERA of 27.00 to sleep on tonight and to work on in his next outing. Meantime Santangelo with his two hit game will be wanting to return along with Maysonet as he hits his first HR of the spring in ten games and raises his average from .100 to .214.
Another note: Arias pitching for the Astros had two excellent innings today with three strikeouts and now has 7.1 scoreless innings this spring. One to watch Dutch Jay.
Foot note: Maysonet and Santangelo batting eight and nine combined for seven of the Astros nine rbis today. As I said baseball is a strange game some days.
Jays get two back in the bottom of the ninth but fall short in this one leaving two on base as Shoffit grounds out to the one and only Maysonet.
The good from today ?
Jays doubles from Johnny Mc and Rios. Rolen’s great triple hustling all the way.
Overbay’s HR with two on. Rbis from Lind (number seven), Overbay, McDonald, Sanchez and Patterson.
Wells back in the outfield and looked fine running, also his first at bat had to leg it out on his groundout, but looked comfortable which Cito will take over a win today…
The Rios and Wells combination came through with two singles in the five run sixth but it was Lyle Overbay’s three run homer into right centre which brought them both in and his first in 20 at bats this spring and brought his rbi total to four. It was that sweet Lyle swing that looks so good. Scott Rolen also had a great hustling triple.
Adam Lind added an RBI single and John McDonald contributed a run-scoring double raising his average to .152.
BJ Ryan another good inning which reduced that ERA from 12.00 to 9.00.
Tallet a scoreless inning and much better outing reducing his ERA from18.00 to 9.00
The bad: Halladay, this is the second consecutive start he has blown badly. And the HR’s keep mounting, two more today to add the earlier three… The good sign however was that were far more ground ball outs than last outing. 12-5 groundouts to fly ball outs. And one strikeout.
By the way Maysonet playing at second base was the one man wrecking crew today. Five rbis. Two HRs (both off Halladay) and a triple. And in the field he made a great diving stop deep the hole behind first. Go figure before today his average was .154 and he had no HRs and no triples. Only two hits one rbi in eleven games. He must love Roy Halladay.
Before the game: Jason Lane not playing today is opening a lot of eyes. Currently in the Grapefruit League he is ranked tied second in HRs with five. Tied fourth in rbis with twelve and tied fifth in hits with twelve.
Up next for the Blue Jays: On Sunday, the Blue Jays hit the road for game with Minnesota Twins in Lee County, Fla. And then still on the road in Sarasota against the Reds on Monday.
Matt Clement and Scott Richmond, both trying for the Jays rotation are scheduled tomorrow.
I plan to go to the Legends game at Bright House but will catch the Twins on Monday against the Phillies also at Bright House.
Yesterday’s game v the Rays was a Dunedin ground record of 5,742.
The highest single game attendance since the renovations were made in 2002. At least the team chose the right day to explode with those fifteen runs although I think Shofft may have wished his for today in his at bat.
Lineups: Astros: Bourn, Jaosn Smith, Michaels, Carlos Lee, Blum, Erstad, Newhan, Maysonet, Santangelo, and Cappellan pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Hill, Rios, Wells, Lind, Overbay, Rolen, Thigpen, McDoanld and Halladay pitching.
Baseball is a strange game… On paper this was a shoo-in for another Jays win.
Astros had won only two this spring and one of those was the first day of spring training. The other was yesterday. Halladay was pitching and determined to rebound from his last outing against Boston. Jays also had their big guys in the lineup for first time this spring… Rios, Wells, Overbay and Rolen. Add in Hill and Johnny Mc and what more could Halladay want?
Well the game still has to be played and today the Astros took it to Halladay early and the Jays to win this one 9-7.
Jays bench tried to make it close in the bottom of the ninth getting two runs and having go ahead run at the plate, but it was not to be.
Capellan who is in the running for the fifth spot in Houston's rotation, gave up five runs on seven hits with one walk in his five innings of work. Before this game, Capellan hadn't allowed any runs in his three previous appearances this Spring. He finished with 82 pitches, including 58 for strikes.
Pitched very well for four innings before Jays hitters solved him and scored five runs on six hits to go ahead 5-1, more than enough for Halladay to cruise? but no Halladay had a terrible sixth inning and Astros score 5 themselves to move ahead 6-5
Downs in his first outing of the spring gives up three runs including a two run HR shot by Santangelo in the eighth on two hits with one walk in one inning and now has a ERA of 27.00 to sleep on tonight and to work on in his next outing. Meantime Santangelo with his two hit game will be wanting to return along with Maysonet as he hits his first HR of the spring in ten games and raises his average from .100 to .214.
Another note: Arias pitching for the Astros had two excellent innings today with three strikeouts and now has 7.1 scoreless innings this spring. One to watch Dutch Jay.
Foot note: Maysonet and Santangelo batting eight and nine combined for seven of the Astros nine rbis today. As I said baseball is a strange game some days.
Jays get two back in the bottom of the ninth but fall short in this one leaving two on base as Shoffit grounds out to the one and only Maysonet.
The good from today ?
Jays doubles from Johnny Mc and Rios. Rolen’s great triple hustling all the way.
Overbay’s HR with two on. Rbis from Lind (number seven), Overbay, McDonald, Sanchez and Patterson.
Wells back in the outfield and looked fine running, also his first at bat had to leg it out on his groundout, but looked comfortable which Cito will take over a win today…
The Rios and Wells combination came through with two singles in the five run sixth but it was Lyle Overbay’s three run homer into right centre which brought them both in and his first in 20 at bats this spring and brought his rbi total to four. It was that sweet Lyle swing that looks so good. Scott Rolen also had a great hustling triple.
Adam Lind added an RBI single and John McDonald contributed a run-scoring double raising his average to .152.
BJ Ryan another good inning which reduced that ERA from 12.00 to 9.00.
Tallet a scoreless inning and much better outing reducing his ERA from18.00 to 9.00
The bad: Halladay, this is the second consecutive start he has blown badly. And the HR’s keep mounting, two more today to add the earlier three… The good sign however was that were far more ground ball outs than last outing. 12-5 groundouts to fly ball outs. And one strikeout.
By the way Maysonet playing at second base was the one man wrecking crew today. Five rbis. Two HRs (both off Halladay) and a triple. And in the field he made a great diving stop deep the hole behind first. Go figure before today his average was .154 and he had no HRs and no triples. Only two hits one rbi in eleven games. He must love Roy Halladay.
Before the game: Jason Lane not playing today is opening a lot of eyes. Currently in the Grapefruit League he is ranked tied second in HRs with five. Tied fourth in rbis with twelve and tied fifth in hits with twelve.
Up next for the Blue Jays: On Sunday, the Blue Jays hit the road for game with Minnesota Twins in Lee County, Fla. And then still on the road in Sarasota against the Reds on Monday.
Matt Clement and Scott Richmond, both trying for the Jays rotation are scheduled tomorrow.
I plan to go to the Legends game at Bright House but will catch the Twins on Monday against the Phillies also at Bright House.
Yesterday’s game v the Rays was a Dunedin ground record of 5,742.
The highest single game attendance since the renovations were made in 2002. At least the team chose the right day to explode with those fifteen runs although I think Shofft may have wished his for today in his at bat.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Jays fight back to explode for 15 against the Rays…
Friday March 20, 2009. Jays v Rays at Dunedin.
Lineups: Rays: Jason Bartlett, Rays MVP, Crawford, Kapler, Pena, Navarro, Richard, Ensberg, Sadler, Adam Kennedy and Matt Garza pitching.
Jays: Adams, Bautista (playing at SS) Rios, Wells, Millar, Lane, Barajas, Emaus, Ahrens, and Brad Mills pitching.
Rays were in town to give Jays a big test today. The Jays big guys were back in the lineup Alex, Barajas and Vernon making his first appearance of the Spring.
But none of these guys were the stars today. Nor Overbay, Rolen or Hill.
This was a show by that very deep organization that JP has put together and it was very impressive today.
Jays were losing this one after one third of first inning on a two run hr by Crawford, his first of the spring, and losing 4-1 in the fifth.
This looked like a romp for the Rays behind a strong Garza, but a funny thing happened.
The game changed big-time, with a five run fifth for the Jays to go ahead 6-4 and then an eight run sixth inning to put this one away.
Shoffit added another with HR to CF in the eighth and Jays explode in this one to win15-4.
Mills went five innings six hits four runs all earned one walk and four strikeouts and hit Navarro. Two of those runs however were in the first five minutes of the game and he settled down to give a good outing. Jays need starters…
News on Janssen and his very short outing yesterday was that he would be examined today to determine cause of his tightness.
Rays Nieman had a horrible time but was not supported in the field with series of terrible fielding plays which should have resulted in errors by the scorer was definitely generous today.
Before today Nieman’s era was minuscule 0.82 in four games and eleven innings, five hits, one run and three walks.
Today his line was 2/3 of an inning, faced 12 batters, seven hits, nine runs all earned, three walks and now has an era of 7.71.
Frasor, Camp, League and Carson just closed the Rays bats down. Two hitters over the minimum in their four innings.
Both Camp and Carlson still have eras of 0.00 this spring. Camp in four innings and Carlson three.
Jays had sixteen hits today and from thirteen different players.
Eamus his third double, Millar his second double, Lane his fifth, and Barrett his third. Adams had a triple. The only HR was Shoffit, this was nickel and dime baseball with clutch hitting up and down the bench.
Rays by comparison had eight hits but four of them by Crawford and Ensberg.
Jays had rbis from Emaus, Bautista, Millar, now 9 on the spring, Lane now 12 and an average of .378, Nielsen, Phillips, Shoffit and Barrett.
Miller, Lane, Phillips and Shoffit two hits each and Barrett cleared three off the bases with his hit.
Rios had one hit but Vernon (DH) was hitless in his first two at bats and grounded into double play. Cito says that Vernon may play three innings in the field this weekend.
Lane now has seventeen hits and twelve rbis in forty five at bats and pushed his average even higher to .357.
Barrett still trying for that backup role made a perfect throw catching Johnson at second stealing and had a three rbi game but has only pushed his average to .200.
Emaus continued to show a strong bat and good hands at 2B. He has outperformed Aaron with his bat this spring.
But despite the great win today there remain questions about the team
Leadoff has still not been decided. Will Scutaro take it when he returns? Neither Adams nor Inglett are good choices. Adams is headed to AAA Vegas and Inglett may not make the team either with so much competition.
My leadoff plug right now is for Rios. He has done it before and successfully, he is taking many walks, is not hitting for power and if he does find his power, that is not a bad spot to showcase it. Plus it gives Jays that running game when he is on base. Hill is a good number two. Millar can take the number three spot with Vernon cleanup.
My big concern is that we have seen excellent hitting (38 of the 95 Jays rbis this spring) from Lane, Emaus, Snider and Campbell, three if not all them may not even be in Toronto in April.
BUT we have yet to see similar production from Rolen, Overbay, Rios, and Wells who will be the heart of the order. Injureis and other excuses but this is the A team on Opening Day...
Lineups: Rays: Jason Bartlett, Rays MVP, Crawford, Kapler, Pena, Navarro, Richard, Ensberg, Sadler, Adam Kennedy and Matt Garza pitching.
Jays: Adams, Bautista (playing at SS) Rios, Wells, Millar, Lane, Barajas, Emaus, Ahrens, and Brad Mills pitching.
Rays were in town to give Jays a big test today. The Jays big guys were back in the lineup Alex, Barajas and Vernon making his first appearance of the Spring.
But none of these guys were the stars today. Nor Overbay, Rolen or Hill.
This was a show by that very deep organization that JP has put together and it was very impressive today.
Jays were losing this one after one third of first inning on a two run hr by Crawford, his first of the spring, and losing 4-1 in the fifth.
This looked like a romp for the Rays behind a strong Garza, but a funny thing happened.
The game changed big-time, with a five run fifth for the Jays to go ahead 6-4 and then an eight run sixth inning to put this one away.
Shoffit added another with HR to CF in the eighth and Jays explode in this one to win15-4.
Mills went five innings six hits four runs all earned one walk and four strikeouts and hit Navarro. Two of those runs however were in the first five minutes of the game and he settled down to give a good outing. Jays need starters…
News on Janssen and his very short outing yesterday was that he would be examined today to determine cause of his tightness.
Rays Nieman had a horrible time but was not supported in the field with series of terrible fielding plays which should have resulted in errors by the scorer was definitely generous today.
Before today Nieman’s era was minuscule 0.82 in four games and eleven innings, five hits, one run and three walks.
Today his line was 2/3 of an inning, faced 12 batters, seven hits, nine runs all earned, three walks and now has an era of 7.71.
Frasor, Camp, League and Carson just closed the Rays bats down. Two hitters over the minimum in their four innings.
Both Camp and Carlson still have eras of 0.00 this spring. Camp in four innings and Carlson three.
Jays had sixteen hits today and from thirteen different players.
Eamus his third double, Millar his second double, Lane his fifth, and Barrett his third. Adams had a triple. The only HR was Shoffit, this was nickel and dime baseball with clutch hitting up and down the bench.
Rays by comparison had eight hits but four of them by Crawford and Ensberg.
Jays had rbis from Emaus, Bautista, Millar, now 9 on the spring, Lane now 12 and an average of .378, Nielsen, Phillips, Shoffit and Barrett.
Miller, Lane, Phillips and Shoffit two hits each and Barrett cleared three off the bases with his hit.
Rios had one hit but Vernon (DH) was hitless in his first two at bats and grounded into double play. Cito says that Vernon may play three innings in the field this weekend.
Lane now has seventeen hits and twelve rbis in forty five at bats and pushed his average even higher to .357.
Barrett still trying for that backup role made a perfect throw catching Johnson at second stealing and had a three rbi game but has only pushed his average to .200.
Emaus continued to show a strong bat and good hands at 2B. He has outperformed Aaron with his bat this spring.
But despite the great win today there remain questions about the team
Leadoff has still not been decided. Will Scutaro take it when he returns? Neither Adams nor Inglett are good choices. Adams is headed to AAA Vegas and Inglett may not make the team either with so much competition.
My leadoff plug right now is for Rios. He has done it before and successfully, he is taking many walks, is not hitting for power and if he does find his power, that is not a bad spot to showcase it. Plus it gives Jays that running game when he is on base. Hill is a good number two. Millar can take the number three spot with Vernon cleanup.
My big concern is that we have seen excellent hitting (38 of the 95 Jays rbis this spring) from Lane, Emaus, Snider and Campbell, three if not all them may not even be in Toronto in April.
BUT we have yet to see similar production from Rolen, Overbay, Rios, and Wells who will be the heart of the order. Injureis and other excuses but this is the A team on Opening Day...
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Janssen experiment does not work. Lane and Emaus show more power.
Thursday March 19, 2009. Jays v Yankees in Tampa. Night game. Yankees win 7-4.
Janssen v Burnett. Janssen auditioning for rotation, lousy idea in my opinion. Burnett first game against his old team.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Lane, Bautista, Campbell, Chavez, McDonald and Janssen pitching.
Yankees: Posada, Damon, Swisher, Matsui, Nady, Ransom, Cabrera, Berroa, Pena and Burnett pitching.
Inglett good start leads of with a triple,making that bid for leadoff, but no one can bring him in. Come on friends three tries? Hill walks. This is like last season. Get the runners on but have no small ball game and unable to sac fly, bunt, or get that single.
Janssen gives up a leadoff double and then loads them with two walks. He is out of there, just knew that this was not a good idea. Burres in relief cannot do it either.
In the second inning Lane walks and Campbell brings him in. his eighth rbi of the spring another finder that we should see in September in Toronto if not before.
Yankees see Burres out of there and are ahead 5-1.
Finally Jays get something going in the fifth with walk after walk after walk…Inglett Hill, Overbay, Jays now have six walks in five innings, that’s all very good but where are the rbis? Overbay continues to be overcautious. This is exactly like last season except for this next guy. Here he comes again.
Jason Lane Two rbis double to go with his walk. Now ten rbis on the spring. Averaging ..357. This guy has done everything and more for this team this spring.. definitely deserves a shot. But Cito has difficult choices to make… Millar as DH, but Lind LF and Snider where does he go? AAA. ?
Lane pinch hitter and back up for Rios and Wells or even for Lind as he is not a great LF.
In the eighth Yankees score two off Purcey with Nunez HR to make it 7-3.
Emaus (again) gets one back in top of the ninth. HR # 3 of the spring but no one on base this time. Emaus has shown that he is not bad backup for Hill at 2B. plenty of pop in this bat.
Johnny Mac singles gets his average up to .133 but error ruins his night.
Burnett 3.1 innings and three hits, one run three walks though. He will be happy he is playing behind with good hitting side to help him out.
Burres cannot do the job either and gives up six hits on four runs in 2.2 innings. Faces 13 hitters
Purcey now. 4 great innings, four hits one run faces 16 hitters. this guy is a starter Cito. In his fifth inning Gives up the two run hr to Nunez in the 8th to make it 7-3. Just goes a bit too far tonight and wishes he had that pitch back but has shown more than enough Cito surely? Jays ten hits and seven walks but only four to show for it. Have to do better than this to beat Boston and the Yankees.
Phillies tomorrow in Dunedin.
Janssen v Burnett. Janssen auditioning for rotation, lousy idea in my opinion. Burnett first game against his old team.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Lane, Bautista, Campbell, Chavez, McDonald and Janssen pitching.
Yankees: Posada, Damon, Swisher, Matsui, Nady, Ransom, Cabrera, Berroa, Pena and Burnett pitching.
Inglett good start leads of with a triple,making that bid for leadoff, but no one can bring him in. Come on friends three tries? Hill walks. This is like last season. Get the runners on but have no small ball game and unable to sac fly, bunt, or get that single.
Janssen gives up a leadoff double and then loads them with two walks. He is out of there, just knew that this was not a good idea. Burres in relief cannot do it either.
In the second inning Lane walks and Campbell brings him in. his eighth rbi of the spring another finder that we should see in September in Toronto if not before.
Yankees see Burres out of there and are ahead 5-1.
Finally Jays get something going in the fifth with walk after walk after walk…Inglett Hill, Overbay, Jays now have six walks in five innings, that’s all very good but where are the rbis? Overbay continues to be overcautious. This is exactly like last season except for this next guy. Here he comes again.
Jason Lane Two rbis double to go with his walk. Now ten rbis on the spring. Averaging ..357. This guy has done everything and more for this team this spring.. definitely deserves a shot. But Cito has difficult choices to make… Millar as DH, but Lind LF and Snider where does he go? AAA. ?
Lane pinch hitter and back up for Rios and Wells or even for Lind as he is not a great LF.
In the eighth Yankees score two off Purcey with Nunez HR to make it 7-3.
Emaus (again) gets one back in top of the ninth. HR # 3 of the spring but no one on base this time. Emaus has shown that he is not bad backup for Hill at 2B. plenty of pop in this bat.
Johnny Mac singles gets his average up to .133 but error ruins his night.
Burnett 3.1 innings and three hits, one run three walks though. He will be happy he is playing behind with good hitting side to help him out.
Burres cannot do the job either and gives up six hits on four runs in 2.2 innings. Faces 13 hitters
Purcey now. 4 great innings, four hits one run faces 16 hitters. this guy is a starter Cito. In his fifth inning Gives up the two run hr to Nunez in the 8th to make it 7-3. Just goes a bit too far tonight and wishes he had that pitch back but has shown more than enough Cito surely? Jays ten hits and seven walks but only four to show for it. Have to do better than this to beat Boston and the Yankees.
Phillies tomorrow in Dunedin.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Phillies raise the white flag as Jays storm back in the ninth to tie this one up.
Wednesday March 18, 2009. Jays v Phillies at Bright House.
Lineups: Jays: Adams, Bautista, Lane, Millar, Rolen, Snyder, Barrett, Thigpen, Emaus and Litsch pitching.
Phillies: Utley, Cairo, Dobbs, Werth, Stars, Feliz, Coste, Paulino and Happ pitching.
This one had everything, another last inning heroics by these young Jays. Last week Thigpen walk off HR to win, today the minions score three to tie, but definitely win a moral victory as Phillies Manager Manuel calls it a day and no extra innings. It would have been much too disastrous for Jays to win this one from World Champs…
Jays get some power and runs from Lane and Ameus HRs but Phillies go ahead with three from Werth to take 7-4 lead.
Bisenius made it interesting in the top of the ninth with his two walks and three hits to get Jays to score three and to tie it up.
Alex who / Vernon who ??? This was a minions win friends today backed by power from Jason Lane (who else?) with his fifth??? home run of spring and Brad Ameus showing his power hitting his second HR.
Jesse Litsch had a good outing going 4.2 innings facing twenty two hitters, four runs, two walks and three strikeouts.
Scott Richmond was inconsistent one hitter perfect the next losing control and the big one a three run HR by (ex-Jay) Jayson Werth although he had not been helped by his fielding team. By the way wherever did Jayson get his swagger ? I guess a World Series ring does that to some players, too bad.
Richmond faced fourteen in 3.1 innings with three hits, three runs, one walk and four strikeouts.
Accardo was superb in bottom of the ninth to close this one but the heroes today were the little guys. We will probably never see them in Toronto but they showed more grit than we get from some of the big guys in battling back 7-4 down in the ninth.
Bright House scorer showing some bias today not going errors to home side by throwing ball away and not turning a double play with the throw and another dropping ball in LF. However scorer was quick to give Jays LF Haerther one on an identical play in LF.
Haerther (more later) went 2-2 but had his big one in the ninth to bring in two runners and make it a one run game. And more than made up for error in LF.
Emaus second HR of season, Lane’s fifth.
Barrett helped his slim chances with two doubles today, but brings his average to.167
Howie Clark kept it going in the ninth with his single. Howie only had four games with the Twins in 2008. Good to see you back Howie.
Adams caught stealing with Millar at the plate… Kevin was not amused.
8,373 another sellout. (of ticketed seats.
Cody Haerther ?? OK friends in Ingoldisthorpe, Woking Jay and Netherlands Jay. Who IS Cody Lee Haerther ? apart from the guy batting 1,000. 2-2 today.
Cody Lee Haerther (traditionally Cody Lee Hærther) (they will have fun with that on scoreboards) (born July 14, 1983 in Valencia California is an outfielder in Jays organization
Haerther was drafted out of high school by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 6th round (192nd overall) of the 2002 MLB Draft. Haerther began his professional career for the Johnson City Cardinals the Cardinals Rookie team,in 2003. His .332 batting average in 63 games led all Cardinals minor leaguers in the organization. He played both third base and outfield but made the complete transition to the outfield after the season.
Haerther spent the 2004 season in Single-A Peoria. He played in just 86 games due to a stress fracture in his left tibia which ended his season on July 22. In those 86 games played, he had a .316batting average with 5 home runs. His .374 batting average in June made him the organization's minor league player of the month. In 2005, he split the year, playing for the High Single-A Palm Beach Cardinals and the Double-A Springfield Cardinals. He began showing some power, hitting a combined 18 home runs in 112 games, with a .307 batting average. Haerther began the 2006 season in Double-A and wound up playing there for the whole season. His batting average dropped to .275 and he struggled against lefties. His contract was purchased by the St. Louis Cardinals following the season on November 20, protecting him from the Rule 5 Draft.
In 2007, Haerther spent the season again in Double-A but only played in 37 games due to a wrist injury and a broken hand. After the season, the Cardinals placed Haerther on waivers, hoping to pass him through. However, the Jays claimed him on November 18. He was designated for assignment by the Blue Jays on November 20, and was reclaimed by the Cardinals on November 22. Haerther was selected by the Blue Jays in the 2008 Rule 5 Draft. (Note somebody in front office obviously likes this guy..)
So there you have it… will we see him again ?? If not thank you Cody Lee for a great game today and totally shutting down the Phillies crowd who were preparing for celebration.
Tomorrow big game with Janssen going against Burnett..
Footnote: Dissing Alex yesterday obviously encouraged him to show his worth and responded with the HR against the USA and two hits… I won’t mention the errors Alex, you will have a tough enough time when you rejoin the Jays. Whilst you were away we have been spoiled with HR power from Lane and Millar, apart from Lind and Snider battling for your job…
Lineups: Jays: Adams, Bautista, Lane, Millar, Rolen, Snyder, Barrett, Thigpen, Emaus and Litsch pitching.
Phillies: Utley, Cairo, Dobbs, Werth, Stars, Feliz, Coste, Paulino and Happ pitching.
This one had everything, another last inning heroics by these young Jays. Last week Thigpen walk off HR to win, today the minions score three to tie, but definitely win a moral victory as Phillies Manager Manuel calls it a day and no extra innings. It would have been much too disastrous for Jays to win this one from World Champs…
Jays get some power and runs from Lane and Ameus HRs but Phillies go ahead with three from Werth to take 7-4 lead.
Bisenius made it interesting in the top of the ninth with his two walks and three hits to get Jays to score three and to tie it up.
Alex who / Vernon who ??? This was a minions win friends today backed by power from Jason Lane (who else?) with his fifth??? home run of spring and Brad Ameus showing his power hitting his second HR.
Jesse Litsch had a good outing going 4.2 innings facing twenty two hitters, four runs, two walks and three strikeouts.
Scott Richmond was inconsistent one hitter perfect the next losing control and the big one a three run HR by (ex-Jay) Jayson Werth although he had not been helped by his fielding team. By the way wherever did Jayson get his swagger ? I guess a World Series ring does that to some players, too bad.
Richmond faced fourteen in 3.1 innings with three hits, three runs, one walk and four strikeouts.
Accardo was superb in bottom of the ninth to close this one but the heroes today were the little guys. We will probably never see them in Toronto but they showed more grit than we get from some of the big guys in battling back 7-4 down in the ninth.
Bright House scorer showing some bias today not going errors to home side by throwing ball away and not turning a double play with the throw and another dropping ball in LF. However scorer was quick to give Jays LF Haerther one on an identical play in LF.
Haerther (more later) went 2-2 but had his big one in the ninth to bring in two runners and make it a one run game. And more than made up for error in LF.
Emaus second HR of season, Lane’s fifth.
Barrett helped his slim chances with two doubles today, but brings his average to.167
Howie Clark kept it going in the ninth with his single. Howie only had four games with the Twins in 2008. Good to see you back Howie.
Adams caught stealing with Millar at the plate… Kevin was not amused.
8,373 another sellout. (of ticketed seats.
Cody Haerther ?? OK friends in Ingoldisthorpe, Woking Jay and Netherlands Jay. Who IS Cody Lee Haerther ? apart from the guy batting 1,000. 2-2 today.
Cody Lee Haerther (traditionally Cody Lee Hærther) (they will have fun with that on scoreboards) (born July 14, 1983 in Valencia California is an outfielder in Jays organization
Haerther was drafted out of high school by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 6th round (192nd overall) of the 2002 MLB Draft. Haerther began his professional career for the Johnson City Cardinals the Cardinals Rookie team,in 2003. His .332 batting average in 63 games led all Cardinals minor leaguers in the organization. He played both third base and outfield but made the complete transition to the outfield after the season.
Haerther spent the 2004 season in Single-A Peoria. He played in just 86 games due to a stress fracture in his left tibia which ended his season on July 22. In those 86 games played, he had a .316batting average with 5 home runs. His .374 batting average in June made him the organization's minor league player of the month. In 2005, he split the year, playing for the High Single-A Palm Beach Cardinals and the Double-A Springfield Cardinals. He began showing some power, hitting a combined 18 home runs in 112 games, with a .307 batting average. Haerther began the 2006 season in Double-A and wound up playing there for the whole season. His batting average dropped to .275 and he struggled against lefties. His contract was purchased by the St. Louis Cardinals following the season on November 20, protecting him from the Rule 5 Draft.
In 2007, Haerther spent the season again in Double-A but only played in 37 games due to a wrist injury and a broken hand. After the season, the Cardinals placed Haerther on waivers, hoping to pass him through. However, the Jays claimed him on November 18. He was designated for assignment by the Blue Jays on November 20, and was reclaimed by the Cardinals on November 22. Haerther was selected by the Blue Jays in the 2008 Rule 5 Draft. (Note somebody in front office obviously likes this guy..)
So there you have it… will we see him again ?? If not thank you Cody Lee for a great game today and totally shutting down the Phillies crowd who were preparing for celebration.
Tomorrow big game with Janssen going against Burnett..
Footnote: Dissing Alex yesterday obviously encouraged him to show his worth and responded with the HR against the USA and two hits… I won’t mention the errors Alex, you will have a tough enough time when you rejoin the Jays. Whilst you were away we have been spoiled with HR power from Lane and Millar, apart from Lind and Snider battling for your job…
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Phillies power too much for Reds.
Tuesday March 17, 2009. Phillies v Reds at Bright House.
Phillies Win 8-1
Jays have off day so this scribe is at Bright House, great seat second row behind home plate.
Lineups: Reds: Tavares, Dickerson, Toronto’s own Joey Votto, Phillips, Bruce, Encarnacion, Gonzalez, Hanigan and Aaron Harang pitching.
Phillies: Utley, Bruntlett, Ibanez, Howard, Stairs, Feliz, Mayberry jr, Ruiz, and Myers pitching. This is some power lineup… from 1-8 although Myers also contributed with a nice single down the right field line.
Phillies show why they are World Champs with a power display today. Equally impressive almost six innings of great pitching by Myers. Manuel stretching out his rotation now with Myers hitting in bottom of the fifth and then pitching in the sixth. With two outs Myers did not like coming out and at first would not give ball to coach but relented and left to a great ovation.… But great to see that in the Spring!
Phillies relievers more than enough to retain the 6-0 lead in this one.
Mayberry again two good hits, a double and an infield hit that he showed his speed down the line. The scouts had their stopwatches out on this one.
Stairs also had a great at bat with 3rbi double in the second to start that six run onslaught.
I like the Reds Laynce Nix… some power in that bat with one foul down the right field line almost onto Route 19. He was also launching in batting practice.
Brad Lidge 41/41 in 2008 had an interesting ninth giving up the Reds run and facing five, with two hits and no strikeouts.It is spring... relax.
Myers gave up four hits and seven strikeouts in 5.2 innings, very impressive.
Ibanez, Mayberry his 5th, Ruiz, Bruntlett, Stairs, Ellison all had doubles today.
Another sellout at Bright. 9,202 at the game today.
Tomorrow Jays are at Bright House….
Good news is that Scutaro should be back with Jays. With the Venezuelan team he had ten at bats three hits and two walks.
Rios who will be playing tonight against the USA had two hits last night and in sixteen at bats three hits and four walks.
Meanwhile back in Dunedin he has some competition with far better stats…I hope we are not going to get another 2008 season from Alex. There you are Alex, that should be enough dissing to get you a four hit multi rbi game tonight. International TV against the USA, what more do you need ?
Phillies Win 8-1
Jays have off day so this scribe is at Bright House, great seat second row behind home plate.
Lineups: Reds: Tavares, Dickerson, Toronto’s own Joey Votto, Phillips, Bruce, Encarnacion, Gonzalez, Hanigan and Aaron Harang pitching.
Phillies: Utley, Bruntlett, Ibanez, Howard, Stairs, Feliz, Mayberry jr, Ruiz, and Myers pitching. This is some power lineup… from 1-8 although Myers also contributed with a nice single down the right field line.
Phillies show why they are World Champs with a power display today. Equally impressive almost six innings of great pitching by Myers. Manuel stretching out his rotation now with Myers hitting in bottom of the fifth and then pitching in the sixth. With two outs Myers did not like coming out and at first would not give ball to coach but relented and left to a great ovation.… But great to see that in the Spring!
Phillies relievers more than enough to retain the 6-0 lead in this one.
Mayberry again two good hits, a double and an infield hit that he showed his speed down the line. The scouts had their stopwatches out on this one.
Stairs also had a great at bat with 3rbi double in the second to start that six run onslaught.
I like the Reds Laynce Nix… some power in that bat with one foul down the right field line almost onto Route 19. He was also launching in batting practice.
Brad Lidge 41/41 in 2008 had an interesting ninth giving up the Reds run and facing five, with two hits and no strikeouts.It is spring... relax.
Myers gave up four hits and seven strikeouts in 5.2 innings, very impressive.
Ibanez, Mayberry his 5th, Ruiz, Bruntlett, Stairs, Ellison all had doubles today.
Another sellout at Bright. 9,202 at the game today.
Tomorrow Jays are at Bright House….
Good news is that Scutaro should be back with Jays. With the Venezuelan team he had ten at bats three hits and two walks.
Rios who will be playing tonight against the USA had two hits last night and in sixteen at bats three hits and four walks.
Meanwhile back in Dunedin he has some competition with far better stats…I hope we are not going to get another 2008 season from Alex. There you are Alex, that should be enough dissing to get you a four hit multi rbi game tonight. International TV against the USA, what more do you need ?
Monday, March 16, 2009
Doc sick today but Inglett is my goat.
Monday March 16, 2009. Jays v Red Sox in Dunedin.
Lineups: Boston: Ellsbury, Lowrie, Drew, Carter, Bard, Bailey, Angel Chavez, Nick Green, Dusty Brown, and Justin Masterson pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Bautista, Lane, Snider, Raul Chavez, McDonald, and Halladay pitching.
Sellout crowd and hot hot hot…but not Halladay today at least. Jays lose this one 6-4
Halladay pitching and with a record of nine scoreless innings in three previous starts. That didn’t last long as he gives up one in first and adds three more before he is finished with his outing today. He faced 24 hitters in five innings with only one walk but eight hits and for him unusual three home runs two by Chris Carter ??? who had only one all spring before today. Halladay was lucky that all three hrs were with no one on base.
Jays out hit the Red Sox 13 -11 but not good enough today.
Lane 2-3 today back in his hitting groove. Lind and Snider also connect. Overbay looks as if he still needs loads of work on his swing, so tentative all the time. A single, walk and a strikeout today.
With Millar hitting the way he is, Lyle may find himself sitting more than he wishes unless he gets it together.
But back to Inglett, this guy is not a leadoff hitter and needs to get his head into the game. I have said this before in this blog but sometimes he just doesn’t think. Leading off the sixth, doubles to the wall tries to make it three and is thrown out at third. Now yes aggressive baseball is needed by this team, and yes maybe umpire had the call wrong, but Joe, you are leadoff with hitters number 2, 3 and 4 coming behind you… One of them should be able to bring you in from second. Sure enough Hill next at bat doubles down the line…
BJ Ryan had a good 1, 2, 3 inning, one strike out two flyouts. Burres, Bush and Perez, followed, none of whom I think will be in this team at the end of the week. Cito has seen enough of a very strong pitching core and needs to extend the starters in the last two weeks.
Halladay goes five today but would take a few of those pitches back that Boston hit out of the park. Three off Doc today, just not his day. Very few ground ball outs, six out of his fifteen outs but with five strikeouts.
Snider connected for his third home run of the spring after Jason Lane had lead off with his first of two doubles today in his three at bats.
Lane now thirteen hits in thirty seven at bats. Three doubles and four hrs has done more than enough in my book to hang around with this group when they head to Toronto. Vernon and Alex would be happy with this type of production.
Hill had his sixth double in his nine hits for the spring. Bautista another hit number nine in fifteen at bats !!! He looks very sharp. Chavez with one hit and rbi and certainly didn’t disgrace himself behind the plate.
Aaron Mathews had two hits today giving him three for the spring in six at bats.
Cito has excess of hitting (and pitching) loads of depth in this team friends.
More cuts today: Robert Ray, Jeroloman and Arenciba. That narrows the catching staff down to Thigpen, Chavez and Barrett but Halladay had Chavez today for a reason.
Lineups: Boston: Ellsbury, Lowrie, Drew, Carter, Bard, Bailey, Angel Chavez, Nick Green, Dusty Brown, and Justin Masterson pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Bautista, Lane, Snider, Raul Chavez, McDonald, and Halladay pitching.
Sellout crowd and hot hot hot…but not Halladay today at least. Jays lose this one 6-4
Halladay pitching and with a record of nine scoreless innings in three previous starts. That didn’t last long as he gives up one in first and adds three more before he is finished with his outing today. He faced 24 hitters in five innings with only one walk but eight hits and for him unusual three home runs two by Chris Carter ??? who had only one all spring before today. Halladay was lucky that all three hrs were with no one on base.
Jays out hit the Red Sox 13 -11 but not good enough today.
Lane 2-3 today back in his hitting groove. Lind and Snider also connect. Overbay looks as if he still needs loads of work on his swing, so tentative all the time. A single, walk and a strikeout today.
With Millar hitting the way he is, Lyle may find himself sitting more than he wishes unless he gets it together.
But back to Inglett, this guy is not a leadoff hitter and needs to get his head into the game. I have said this before in this blog but sometimes he just doesn’t think. Leading off the sixth, doubles to the wall tries to make it three and is thrown out at third. Now yes aggressive baseball is needed by this team, and yes maybe umpire had the call wrong, but Joe, you are leadoff with hitters number 2, 3 and 4 coming behind you… One of them should be able to bring you in from second. Sure enough Hill next at bat doubles down the line…
BJ Ryan had a good 1, 2, 3 inning, one strike out two flyouts. Burres, Bush and Perez, followed, none of whom I think will be in this team at the end of the week. Cito has seen enough of a very strong pitching core and needs to extend the starters in the last two weeks.
Halladay goes five today but would take a few of those pitches back that Boston hit out of the park. Three off Doc today, just not his day. Very few ground ball outs, six out of his fifteen outs but with five strikeouts.
Snider connected for his third home run of the spring after Jason Lane had lead off with his first of two doubles today in his three at bats.
Lane now thirteen hits in thirty seven at bats. Three doubles and four hrs has done more than enough in my book to hang around with this group when they head to Toronto. Vernon and Alex would be happy with this type of production.
Hill had his sixth double in his nine hits for the spring. Bautista another hit number nine in fifteen at bats !!! He looks very sharp. Chavez with one hit and rbi and certainly didn’t disgrace himself behind the plate.
Aaron Mathews had two hits today giving him three for the spring in six at bats.
Cito has excess of hitting (and pitching) loads of depth in this team friends.
More cuts today: Robert Ray, Jeroloman and Arenciba. That narrows the catching staff down to Thigpen, Chavez and Barrett but Halladay had Chavez today for a reason.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Part 2. Jays v Reds. Sunday March 15, 2009
Sunday March 15, 2009. Jays win 5-4 in extra innings.
Lineups: Reds: Hopper, Dickerson, Votto, Phillips, Bruce, Encarion, Nic, Gonzalez, Hanigan and Cueto pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Adams, Bautista, Millar, Rolen, Lane, Snider, Barrett, Emaus, and Brad Mills pitching. Inglett was playing at SS and Adams in LF, neither of them had very good game and almost lost the game as a result of their poor defence.
Mills went four innings with five hits and five walks. But only two runs.
Frasor had two hits and two runs in one inning. Hayhurst an excellent inning one hit but three strikeouts, continues his 0.0 ERA. Camp, League, Carlson and Martin kept Reds off scoresheet and gave Jays chance to get back in this one. Carlson looked very, very good and as if he were continuing on from last season.
Jays leave twelve on base and that hurt them especially in early innings.
Lane HR is his fourth of the spring and Thigpen’s winning walkoff HR his second.
Jays now have same amount of HRs as last spring and that is without both Wells and Rios and remember Jays also had big bopper Frank last spring.
Jays thirteen hits. Bautista three for three today, obviously the WBC games helped his bat. Ruiz, Campbell and Thigpen all had two hits each. Bautista and Snider both had doubles.
The earlier cut announced re Brett Cecil also included Mike Maroth, Brian Dopirak, Adam Loewen, and Ken Takahashi. I think we will see some of those pitchers again before the end of this season.
The group moving north still remains unclear. In the outfield, Lind, Snider and Lane are in with Rios and Wells. And if Cito gives DH to one them what does Kevin Millar do? More likely scenario will be Snider going to AAA if only to give him daily at bats which he will never get in Toronto. Of course that assumes that Vernon will be healthy. We have yet to see him at bat although he was taking fly balls last week and batting practice. This was the week that front office said he would be back. But if he is still risky then Cito still has four good outfielders.
Pitching is still uncertain, more so with Cecil now cut. Are they going to stretch Casey Janssen out to be starter ? They are very rich now with relief pitching and may not need Casey to relieve. Halladay, Litsch, ? ? ?. Mills did not help his chances today. What happens to Scott Richmond ?
Purcey is still around but so is Ricky Romero who has not had a good spring. Clement is in my book but so was Cecil… Halladay, Litsch, Janssen, Clement and Purcey ???? This week will be very interesting.
Catching becomes clearer each game, Barrett has not starred although he did throw one out today, his all-round defence is not as good as Chavez. Thigpen of course has his bat as shown today but this is only his third hit, two of which have been HRs. They have plenty of chances to showcase whilst Barajas is playing at WBC.
Lineups: Reds: Hopper, Dickerson, Votto, Phillips, Bruce, Encarion, Nic, Gonzalez, Hanigan and Cueto pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Adams, Bautista, Millar, Rolen, Lane, Snider, Barrett, Emaus, and Brad Mills pitching. Inglett was playing at SS and Adams in LF, neither of them had very good game and almost lost the game as a result of their poor defence.
Mills went four innings with five hits and five walks. But only two runs.
Frasor had two hits and two runs in one inning. Hayhurst an excellent inning one hit but three strikeouts, continues his 0.0 ERA. Camp, League, Carlson and Martin kept Reds off scoresheet and gave Jays chance to get back in this one. Carlson looked very, very good and as if he were continuing on from last season.
Jays leave twelve on base and that hurt them especially in early innings.
Lane HR is his fourth of the spring and Thigpen’s winning walkoff HR his second.
Jays now have same amount of HRs as last spring and that is without both Wells and Rios and remember Jays also had big bopper Frank last spring.
Jays thirteen hits. Bautista three for three today, obviously the WBC games helped his bat. Ruiz, Campbell and Thigpen all had two hits each. Bautista and Snider both had doubles.
The earlier cut announced re Brett Cecil also included Mike Maroth, Brian Dopirak, Adam Loewen, and Ken Takahashi. I think we will see some of those pitchers again before the end of this season.
The group moving north still remains unclear. In the outfield, Lind, Snider and Lane are in with Rios and Wells. And if Cito gives DH to one them what does Kevin Millar do? More likely scenario will be Snider going to AAA if only to give him daily at bats which he will never get in Toronto. Of course that assumes that Vernon will be healthy. We have yet to see him at bat although he was taking fly balls last week and batting practice. This was the week that front office said he would be back. But if he is still risky then Cito still has four good outfielders.
Pitching is still uncertain, more so with Cecil now cut. Are they going to stretch Casey Janssen out to be starter ? They are very rich now with relief pitching and may not need Casey to relieve. Halladay, Litsch, ? ? ?. Mills did not help his chances today. What happens to Scott Richmond ?
Purcey is still around but so is Ricky Romero who has not had a good spring. Clement is in my book but so was Cecil… Halladay, Litsch, Janssen, Clement and Purcey ???? This week will be very interesting.
Catching becomes clearer each game, Barrett has not starred although he did throw one out today, his all-round defence is not as good as Chavez. Thigpen of course has his bat as shown today but this is only his third hit, two of which have been HRs. They have plenty of chances to showcase whilst Barajas is playing at WBC.
Sloppy Jays redeemed by Thigpen winning HR in bottom of tenth
Sunday March 15, 2009. Jays v Reds in Dunedin.
This was sloppy, sloppy Jays at their defensive worst. Three errors by SS Sanchez, a missed catchable ball in LF by Adams, Joe Inglett fumbling a double play and then getting caught stealing which as it turned out would have lead to a run and the winning run in regulation time.
BUT Great pitching except for Brad Mills who did not have good game today.
Carlson was exceptional 10 pitches 9 strikes for his one inning of work, WOW.
But League also, Frasor and Accardo also had good inings alhtough Frasor was the victim of his team fielding or lack of..
Jays had plenty of opportunities but none betther than in fifth when Inglett gets on base is throw out stealing , and then Jays proceed to get next two on. Would have been bases loaded no outs for Millar who files out... Could have, should have been a run Joe....
But Jays second stringers deserve the cerdit to battle back from 4-1 deficit to win this in the bottom of the tenth on Curtis Thigpen walk off home run.
Jason Lane gets another home run... He had been so close for the last few games it was just a matter of time. Cito and the brainstrust have some decisions to make i that outfield.
The bad news today, Brett Cecil cut. Wow, that hurts... He had pitched so well but had that one bad outing yesterday although he managed to escape from damage.
Monday, the big bad Red Sox.... and Halladay pitching...
This was sloppy, sloppy Jays at their defensive worst. Three errors by SS Sanchez, a missed catchable ball in LF by Adams, Joe Inglett fumbling a double play and then getting caught stealing which as it turned out would have lead to a run and the winning run in regulation time.
BUT Great pitching except for Brad Mills who did not have good game today.
Carlson was exceptional 10 pitches 9 strikes for his one inning of work, WOW.
But League also, Frasor and Accardo also had good inings alhtough Frasor was the victim of his team fielding or lack of..
Jays had plenty of opportunities but none betther than in fifth when Inglett gets on base is throw out stealing , and then Jays proceed to get next two on. Would have been bases loaded no outs for Millar who files out... Could have, should have been a run Joe....
But Jays second stringers deserve the cerdit to battle back from 4-1 deficit to win this in the bottom of the tenth on Curtis Thigpen walk off home run.
Jason Lane gets another home run... He had been so close for the last few games it was just a matter of time. Cito and the brainstrust have some decisions to make i that outfield.
The bad news today, Brett Cecil cut. Wow, that hurts... He had pitched so well but had that one bad outing yesterday although he managed to escape from damage.
Monday, the big bad Red Sox.... and Halladay pitching...
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Jays let one get away. Lose this one 10-4.
Saturday March 14, 2009 Jays v Tigers in Lakeland.
Lineups: Jays: Adams, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Lane, Bautista (back from WBC) Ameus, Chavez and McDonald with Janssen starting.
Tigers: Inge, Polanco, Sheffield, Larish, Laird, Raeburn, Perez, Gomez, Everett and Willis pitching.
Well I really jinxed Casey today with my comment about him starting.
Here he is starting today and going three great innings. Two hits, one run, one walk. I hope they don’t put him in the rotation. Not that he is not good enough but just messes around with that relief corps. With Wolfe dodgy and Tallet not pitching that well. Add to that Bauer and Maroth on today's showing and Janssen to my mind is key.
Jays start off well getting to Willis in first inning. Three runs, Adams and Hill walks and Lind bringing them in with his first triple of the season and adding to his recent strong showing with the bat. Jays get another in the second and are up by four before Detroit gets on the board.
Janssen faces 14 in his three innings. Maroth however opens the door, facing seventeen hitters in 2. 2/3 innings, seven hits, including double, triple and home run to Laird, three walks and five runs in total. Horrible day for Maroth.
Error by Emaus
Chavez at least I get right, with his pickoff throw to get Larish at 1B. This kid has a great arm.
Adams DH today gets on base twice with walk and hbp comes round to score both times.
Bauer four runs on four hits in 1.1 innings. Bauer also self destructs in the seventh with four runs. Facing eight hitters.
Robertson and Bonine shut Jays down for 6 innings.
Jays will probably be happy with Janssen’s outing today and Adam Lind’s hitting but not much else. They leave 14 on base today.
Bauer and Maroth may just be out of the door in the next cuts.
Footnote: Cut yesterday was Buck Coats, last spring this kid was one of the highlights, not this year but hard to compete with Lind, Snider and Lane.
Lineups: Jays: Adams, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Lane, Bautista (back from WBC) Ameus, Chavez and McDonald with Janssen starting.
Tigers: Inge, Polanco, Sheffield, Larish, Laird, Raeburn, Perez, Gomez, Everett and Willis pitching.
Well I really jinxed Casey today with my comment about him starting.
Here he is starting today and going three great innings. Two hits, one run, one walk. I hope they don’t put him in the rotation. Not that he is not good enough but just messes around with that relief corps. With Wolfe dodgy and Tallet not pitching that well. Add to that Bauer and Maroth on today's showing and Janssen to my mind is key.
Jays start off well getting to Willis in first inning. Three runs, Adams and Hill walks and Lind bringing them in with his first triple of the season and adding to his recent strong showing with the bat. Jays get another in the second and are up by four before Detroit gets on the board.
Janssen faces 14 in his three innings. Maroth however opens the door, facing seventeen hitters in 2. 2/3 innings, seven hits, including double, triple and home run to Laird, three walks and five runs in total. Horrible day for Maroth.
Error by Emaus
Chavez at least I get right, with his pickoff throw to get Larish at 1B. This kid has a great arm.
Adams DH today gets on base twice with walk and hbp comes round to score both times.
Bauer four runs on four hits in 1.1 innings. Bauer also self destructs in the seventh with four runs. Facing eight hitters.
Robertson and Bonine shut Jays down for 6 innings.
Jays will probably be happy with Janssen’s outing today and Adam Lind’s hitting but not much else. They leave 14 on base today.
Bauer and Maroth may just be out of the door in the next cuts.
Footnote: Cut yesterday was Buck Coats, last spring this kid was one of the highlights, not this year but hard to compete with Lind, Snider and Lane.
Jays beat Rays 3-1 in Dunedin
Friday March 13, 2009. Jays v Rays in Dunedin.
Lineups: Rays: Elliot Johnson, Ruggiano, Zobrist, Ensberg, Richard, Riggans, Brignac, Olmeda, Kennedy, and Carlos Hernandez pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Emaus, Lind, Millar, Rolen, Lane, Snider, McDonald, Barrett, and Brett Cecil starting.
Rays first trip to Dunedin this spring and Maddon send most of his second team and Jays win this one easily 3-1.
A game that both managers are looking at for their rotation starters. Cito has Brett Cecil and David Purcey fighting for that rotation spot and from this seat, Purcey wins this one today. Cecil had some control problems earlier and walks three. But gives up only one hit in his 3 2/3 innings. His pitch count was at 70 by the fourth, 27 alone in the third inning. “Four walks is not really me, hasn’t been me in the last couple of years. I’d rather give up four home runs than four walks.” (Cecil) Hmmmm!
Purcey shuts the door on Rays for the last four innings, four hits and two strikeouts.
In comparison Maddon had Hernandez also pitching for a rotation spot go four innings give up three runs on four hits and also walked four with two strikeouts.
Jason Hammel also trying for Rays rotation spot had two hits and a walk in the last three innings but this game was over by then. Hammel has much better era this spring than Hernandez, and 11 strikeouts compared to 5, and only two walks compared to five for Hernandez. Jeremy Accardo by the way had a much better outing and went 1 1/3 inning with just the one run, more importantly his control was there and today at least no walks.
Cito shows today at least that he has a far better bench and bullpen and the Jays record shows that now.
Interesting stat yesterday that Jays have 13 HRs half way through this spring compared to only 15 for the whole of last spring. And this is without Wells or Rios.
Pitching has been excellent and there are at least five now pitching for rotation spots after Halladay and Litsch. Purcey, Cecil, Clement, Mills and Richmond who has missed the last ten days pitching for Canada.
For my money Clement should be number three if he can continue his first few weeks showing. He also has the major league experience over the others.
Cecil and Purcey, either or both. Richmond still has to show this spring the promise that he showed last year to earn a spot and Mills may take a long relief role.
The word on McGowan continues to be non-committal on a return time. A few weeks ago it was mid-season, now the mantra is that “we will not rush him”.
As for converting Janssen to a starter he has not yet pitched more than an inning and with the others pitching so well he may remain as a seventh inning set up.
Relief Catcher position is still unsettled between Barrett and Chavez. Although they still keep putting Thigpen out there he has not shown that he is in the serious running. Barrett had a terrible defensive game on Friday, totally misjudging a pop up behind the plate and making no attempt. I don’t think his boss JP sitting 20 feet behind would have been impressed with that total lack of effort. To add to his agony the Rays were running all afternoon stealing three bases, Barrett’s throws were not in time and one almost sailed into center field.
Jays pitchers should take some blame for this as everyone knows Maddon will run, run, run even with his second team.
Good to see more offence from Emaus a double and a triple today and two rbis Although he will probably not make the team he has been great backup for Aaron Hill at second base and JP must be pleased with that infield insurance. I hope we see him again in September call up. Incidentally he has a much better bat than Aaron.
Lind also had a good two hit afternoon, gradually getting that swing going. Millar had the other rbi with his one hit of the afternoon and cementing his position on the roster. Jason Lane had a second rough afternoon, he is hitting them hard but no results. He certainly does not believe in walking much, swings at almost everything.
Good to see Yankees pitching struggling. Chien-Ming Wang gave up six hits and seven runs in 1 2/3 innings today. "Everything was flat. Arm was behind my body. Second inning (when he faced ten batters) ball was up."
Really good news. John Mayberry jr of the Phillies and my tip for NL rookie of year, now hitting .270 with three HRs and 10 rbis.
Ingoldisthorpe Jay, Jays had an off day on Thursday… and so did I…. No game at Bright House either.
Lineups: Rays: Elliot Johnson, Ruggiano, Zobrist, Ensberg, Richard, Riggans, Brignac, Olmeda, Kennedy, and Carlos Hernandez pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Emaus, Lind, Millar, Rolen, Lane, Snider, McDonald, Barrett, and Brett Cecil starting.
Rays first trip to Dunedin this spring and Maddon send most of his second team and Jays win this one easily 3-1.
A game that both managers are looking at for their rotation starters. Cito has Brett Cecil and David Purcey fighting for that rotation spot and from this seat, Purcey wins this one today. Cecil had some control problems earlier and walks three. But gives up only one hit in his 3 2/3 innings. His pitch count was at 70 by the fourth, 27 alone in the third inning. “Four walks is not really me, hasn’t been me in the last couple of years. I’d rather give up four home runs than four walks.” (Cecil) Hmmmm!
Purcey shuts the door on Rays for the last four innings, four hits and two strikeouts.
In comparison Maddon had Hernandez also pitching for a rotation spot go four innings give up three runs on four hits and also walked four with two strikeouts.
Jason Hammel also trying for Rays rotation spot had two hits and a walk in the last three innings but this game was over by then. Hammel has much better era this spring than Hernandez, and 11 strikeouts compared to 5, and only two walks compared to five for Hernandez. Jeremy Accardo by the way had a much better outing and went 1 1/3 inning with just the one run, more importantly his control was there and today at least no walks.
Cito shows today at least that he has a far better bench and bullpen and the Jays record shows that now.
Interesting stat yesterday that Jays have 13 HRs half way through this spring compared to only 15 for the whole of last spring. And this is without Wells or Rios.
Pitching has been excellent and there are at least five now pitching for rotation spots after Halladay and Litsch. Purcey, Cecil, Clement, Mills and Richmond who has missed the last ten days pitching for Canada.
For my money Clement should be number three if he can continue his first few weeks showing. He also has the major league experience over the others.
Cecil and Purcey, either or both. Richmond still has to show this spring the promise that he showed last year to earn a spot and Mills may take a long relief role.
The word on McGowan continues to be non-committal on a return time. A few weeks ago it was mid-season, now the mantra is that “we will not rush him”.
As for converting Janssen to a starter he has not yet pitched more than an inning and with the others pitching so well he may remain as a seventh inning set up.
Relief Catcher position is still unsettled between Barrett and Chavez. Although they still keep putting Thigpen out there he has not shown that he is in the serious running. Barrett had a terrible defensive game on Friday, totally misjudging a pop up behind the plate and making no attempt. I don’t think his boss JP sitting 20 feet behind would have been impressed with that total lack of effort. To add to his agony the Rays were running all afternoon stealing three bases, Barrett’s throws were not in time and one almost sailed into center field.
Jays pitchers should take some blame for this as everyone knows Maddon will run, run, run even with his second team.
Good to see more offence from Emaus a double and a triple today and two rbis Although he will probably not make the team he has been great backup for Aaron Hill at second base and JP must be pleased with that infield insurance. I hope we see him again in September call up. Incidentally he has a much better bat than Aaron.
Lind also had a good two hit afternoon, gradually getting that swing going. Millar had the other rbi with his one hit of the afternoon and cementing his position on the roster. Jason Lane had a second rough afternoon, he is hitting them hard but no results. He certainly does not believe in walking much, swings at almost everything.
Good to see Yankees pitching struggling. Chien-Ming Wang gave up six hits and seven runs in 1 2/3 innings today. "Everything was flat. Arm was behind my body. Second inning (when he faced ten batters) ball was up."
Really good news. John Mayberry jr of the Phillies and my tip for NL rookie of year, now hitting .270 with three HRs and 10 rbis.
Ingoldisthorpe Jay, Jays had an off day on Thursday… and so did I…. No game at Bright House either.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Pitching, pitching and more pitching.
Wednesday March 11, 2009. Jays v Pirates in Dunedin
Lineups: Pittsburgh: Morgan, McCutchen, McLouth, Adama LaRoche, Monro, Andy LaRoche, Ford, Jaramillo, Cruz, and Maholm pitching.
Jays: McDonald, Hill, Lind, Millar, Overbay, Lane, Snider, Barrett, Campbell, and Halladay pitching.
Halladay masterful for his four innings of work, throwing first strike pitches to the first seven that he faced. Pirates get one walk and one hit off Roy today. He has been almost perfect in the three outings that he has pitched so far this spring with an ERA of 0.00.
He was almost matched by Paul Maholm of the Pirates. This was a pitchers game until the sixth and a very quick one at that. Hallady and Maholm were models of speed today.
Maholm gets into trouble with his first two Jays hitters as McDonald reaches and then a great bunt by Hill puts him in scoring position on the first three pitches. But Lind and Millar cannot bring him in ad that was it for the Jays until the sixth
Adam LaRoche puts the Pirates ahead in the top of the sixth and Jays reply with two in the bottom Hills double, Lind’s single and Millar combine for the two runs.
The score remained like that until the top of the ninth. However Monro connects off Bobby Ray and ties it up. 2-2 and stays like that until the bottom of the eleventh inning when the games is called by mutual consent of both managers. Spring training extra inning games are not the norm. Game was flying along under two hours for the first eight innings
Jays pitchers,
Halladay four innings, four strike outs but seven ground balls, most of them to Hill.
BJ Ryan one inning a little shaky, walking the first hitter on four pitches but survived without damage.
Perez in the sixth giving up the run
Hayhurst Beam, and Martin held Pirates.
Ray wants to forget this outing had two innings three walks and the Monro HR but that was more than enough.
Jays start Johnny Mc. at leadoff today… worked in the first inning but am not sure about a permanent lineup. Cito has tried Inglett, Thigpen, Johnny Mc and Scutaro at laedoff. My bet will be Scutaro.. There is no place for Inglett or Thigpen inthe starting lineup. Johnny Mc could not get his bunt down today and his hitting is still awful. It will be an interesting decision for Cito in a couple of weeks.
Cito likes Hill batting number two and he has certainly shown that he can get on base. Of course we have not seen Alex or Vernon yet who would presumably be three and four.
Jason Lane boxscore today says hitless but he connected well on all three hits all into the outfield and with a wind like last week could have had a HR. but today wind was non existent at 3mph.
Interesting piece in the St. Petersburg Times today from the Rays.
Discussing Price and why they are sending him to AAA to start the season at least. Evidently according to this article Rays front office did some research several years ago and determined that young pitchers who exceeded their previous year’s output by more than 20% were more susceptible to injury.
This is evidently why Rays are so careful with their young pitchers and also not overdoing their rotation in the spring in the first few weeks.
Very interesting and makes a lot of sense in context of the Jays as well.
Both Cito and Gibbons before him had the habit of staying with a hot relief guy, night after night. And they would bring a guy in for just one hitter. The problem is that it is not just a few pitches out on the mound for the outs, it is the nightly warmup which never gives the arm chance for a break.
It would be interesting to test this hypothesis on Jays pitchers over the last five years and especially to those who have had injuries…
Ozzie Jay something for you to research ?
Lineups: Pittsburgh: Morgan, McCutchen, McLouth, Adama LaRoche, Monro, Andy LaRoche, Ford, Jaramillo, Cruz, and Maholm pitching.
Jays: McDonald, Hill, Lind, Millar, Overbay, Lane, Snider, Barrett, Campbell, and Halladay pitching.
Halladay masterful for his four innings of work, throwing first strike pitches to the first seven that he faced. Pirates get one walk and one hit off Roy today. He has been almost perfect in the three outings that he has pitched so far this spring with an ERA of 0.00.
He was almost matched by Paul Maholm of the Pirates. This was a pitchers game until the sixth and a very quick one at that. Hallady and Maholm were models of speed today.
Maholm gets into trouble with his first two Jays hitters as McDonald reaches and then a great bunt by Hill puts him in scoring position on the first three pitches. But Lind and Millar cannot bring him in ad that was it for the Jays until the sixth
Adam LaRoche puts the Pirates ahead in the top of the sixth and Jays reply with two in the bottom Hills double, Lind’s single and Millar combine for the two runs.
The score remained like that until the top of the ninth. However Monro connects off Bobby Ray and ties it up. 2-2 and stays like that until the bottom of the eleventh inning when the games is called by mutual consent of both managers. Spring training extra inning games are not the norm. Game was flying along under two hours for the first eight innings
Jays pitchers,
Halladay four innings, four strike outs but seven ground balls, most of them to Hill.
BJ Ryan one inning a little shaky, walking the first hitter on four pitches but survived without damage.
Perez in the sixth giving up the run
Hayhurst Beam, and Martin held Pirates.
Ray wants to forget this outing had two innings three walks and the Monro HR but that was more than enough.
Jays start Johnny Mc. at leadoff today… worked in the first inning but am not sure about a permanent lineup. Cito has tried Inglett, Thigpen, Johnny Mc and Scutaro at laedoff. My bet will be Scutaro.. There is no place for Inglett or Thigpen inthe starting lineup. Johnny Mc could not get his bunt down today and his hitting is still awful. It will be an interesting decision for Cito in a couple of weeks.
Cito likes Hill batting number two and he has certainly shown that he can get on base. Of course we have not seen Alex or Vernon yet who would presumably be three and four.
Jason Lane boxscore today says hitless but he connected well on all three hits all into the outfield and with a wind like last week could have had a HR. but today wind was non existent at 3mph.
Interesting piece in the St. Petersburg Times today from the Rays.
Discussing Price and why they are sending him to AAA to start the season at least. Evidently according to this article Rays front office did some research several years ago and determined that young pitchers who exceeded their previous year’s output by more than 20% were more susceptible to injury.
This is evidently why Rays are so careful with their young pitchers and also not overdoing their rotation in the spring in the first few weeks.
Very interesting and makes a lot of sense in context of the Jays as well.
Both Cito and Gibbons before him had the habit of staying with a hot relief guy, night after night. And they would bring a guy in for just one hitter. The problem is that it is not just a few pitches out on the mound for the outs, it is the nightly warmup which never gives the arm chance for a break.
It would be interesting to test this hypothesis on Jays pitchers over the last five years and especially to those who have had injuries…
Ozzie Jay something for you to research ?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Jays blow this one after quick lead. Wolfe’s arm now suspect.
Tuesday March 10, 2009 Jays v Rays in Port Charlotte.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett, Adams, Snider, Rolen, Dopirak, Coats, Melilo, Thigpen, Sanchez and Clement pitching
Rays: Weber, Brignac, Longoria, Pena, Burrell, Navarro, Gross, Ruggiano, Olmedo and Garza pitching.
Wolfe faced six people in one third of an inning but responsible for five runs. Burrell’s grand slam being the major difference today. After giving up five runs in the fifth inning Wolfe pulled himself from the game due to pain in his throwing shoulder.
Wolfe said he felt tightness in his shoulder while warming up in the bullpen, but didn't believe it to be serious.
"Then I was out there throwing and I heard something pop. Once it popped, then it got a little sore, and that's when I called [pitching coach Brad Arnsberg] out. After a couple pitches, I was like, 'This isn't worth pushing it any more right now.'"
Too bad he didn’t pull himself earlier. He will be examined tomorrow by the doctor. The way the bullpen has been pitching this spring, he will not be missed, there are some great arms available and it will be a good opportunity to get them involved. Wolfe has had elbow, bicep and triceps injuries in the past.
Jays get off to a great start. Inglett singles to start game, followed by the hottest Jays hitter, Russ MVP Adams now hitting .375. Another double. Snider a double and Jays were in flight.
Thigpen !!! another one who had a lousy first week coming alive… hits his first HR. in the fourth and Jays are up 4-2.
Clement four innings and 17 batters made his third appearance allowed two runs on four hits, two of the hits were back to back doubles in the first although his control was a little off again today and walked four.
Garza was pitching his first of the season and apart from his shaky first inning Andy Sonnanstine pitched perfect fifth inning in his first outing. David Price also made his first appearance and pitched two scoreless innings walked two and struck out three.
Joe Maddon says Price still needs work before a fixture in the majors even though he was so good in post-season. Price is trying to prove him wrong.
Three errors again by Jays. Inglett, Campbell and Dopirak.
Adams gets his third double of season, and Snider his second.
Sanchez stole second his second steal of the spring.
Tomorrow Jays host the Pirates in Dunedin. Halladay pitching his third start. Paul Maholm starts for Pirates.
Pitching report: Evidently Cito has named left-handers B.J. Ryan, Scott Downs, Brian Tallet and Jesse Carlson as the only sure things for bullpen. I am not sure Tallet has proven himself yet. That leaves three spots up for grabs. Downs will throw in batting practice on Friday to determine his next move and whether or not he can start pitching games.Takahashi not yet ready to resume pitching after his injury ten days ago. Romero and Litsch will go again on Friday. BJ Ryan had much better outing yesterday with just six pitches for one inning.
McGowan still no date given for his return, the official word is that Jays do not want to rush him and are being cautious for the longer term. McGowan visited his surgeon on Sunday but was told the soreness last week was just normal wear.
Sorry Ernie things didn’t work out this time BUT this below will make you smile.
An interesting piece in the St. Petersburg Times on Monday by Rodney Page.
“The United States won a close game 6-5, but the surprising part was how many good players are on the Canadian team. Russell Martin, Jason Bay Matt Staors, Justin Morneau and Scott Richmond are Canadian. Who knew?”
Jason Lane has been opening many eyes here in Dunedin BUT it should be pointed out that Jason is no rookie. He is 32 years old and has played for several major league teams.
At the University of Southern California he earned All American honors as a pitcher in 1999. In 1998 he helped USC to NCAA championship beating Arizona 21-14. Lane was DH in the game and went 3-6 including ninth inning grand slam and set a College World Series reord with 11 hits. And led tournament with .417 average.
Astros signed him as hitter rather than pitcher.
Lane hit the last home run and made the last out at Busch Memorial Stadium on October 19, 2005.
When Aubrey Huff was brought in Lane was optioned to AAA but recalled and on August 29, 2006 he hit a pinch hit grand slam off Brewers Dan Kolb in the 8th inning. Lane finished the 2006 season with 15 home runs, although he hit just .201 over 112 games.
Demoted again to AAA in 2007 Lane was called back up to the big league club.
But then traded to San Diego Padres. September 2007. Was not offered a new contract and became free agent December 2007.
Signed by the Yankees Jan 2008 and invited to spring training but didn’t make the team, opted out of his contract and signed with Boston in August and became free agent at end of last season. Signed minor league contract with Jays in December 2008Bats right and throws left.
Has 21 games post-season with 62 at bats and 4 HRs
In six seasons he has played 497 games, 1208 at bats 64 doubles 7 triples 61 HRs and 189 RBIs. .241 avge.
Here's wishing him a home at the Rogers Centre...
Lineups: Jays: Inglett, Adams, Snider, Rolen, Dopirak, Coats, Melilo, Thigpen, Sanchez and Clement pitching
Rays: Weber, Brignac, Longoria, Pena, Burrell, Navarro, Gross, Ruggiano, Olmedo and Garza pitching.
Wolfe faced six people in one third of an inning but responsible for five runs. Burrell’s grand slam being the major difference today. After giving up five runs in the fifth inning Wolfe pulled himself from the game due to pain in his throwing shoulder.
Wolfe said he felt tightness in his shoulder while warming up in the bullpen, but didn't believe it to be serious.
"Then I was out there throwing and I heard something pop. Once it popped, then it got a little sore, and that's when I called [pitching coach Brad Arnsberg] out. After a couple pitches, I was like, 'This isn't worth pushing it any more right now.'"
Too bad he didn’t pull himself earlier. He will be examined tomorrow by the doctor. The way the bullpen has been pitching this spring, he will not be missed, there are some great arms available and it will be a good opportunity to get them involved. Wolfe has had elbow, bicep and triceps injuries in the past.
Jays get off to a great start. Inglett singles to start game, followed by the hottest Jays hitter, Russ MVP Adams now hitting .375. Another double. Snider a double and Jays were in flight.
Thigpen !!! another one who had a lousy first week coming alive… hits his first HR. in the fourth and Jays are up 4-2.
Clement four innings and 17 batters made his third appearance allowed two runs on four hits, two of the hits were back to back doubles in the first although his control was a little off again today and walked four.
Garza was pitching his first of the season and apart from his shaky first inning Andy Sonnanstine pitched perfect fifth inning in his first outing. David Price also made his first appearance and pitched two scoreless innings walked two and struck out three.
Joe Maddon says Price still needs work before a fixture in the majors even though he was so good in post-season. Price is trying to prove him wrong.
Three errors again by Jays. Inglett, Campbell and Dopirak.
Adams gets his third double of season, and Snider his second.
Sanchez stole second his second steal of the spring.
Tomorrow Jays host the Pirates in Dunedin. Halladay pitching his third start. Paul Maholm starts for Pirates.
Pitching report: Evidently Cito has named left-handers B.J. Ryan, Scott Downs, Brian Tallet and Jesse Carlson as the only sure things for bullpen. I am not sure Tallet has proven himself yet. That leaves three spots up for grabs. Downs will throw in batting practice on Friday to determine his next move and whether or not he can start pitching games.Takahashi not yet ready to resume pitching after his injury ten days ago. Romero and Litsch will go again on Friday. BJ Ryan had much better outing yesterday with just six pitches for one inning.
McGowan still no date given for his return, the official word is that Jays do not want to rush him and are being cautious for the longer term. McGowan visited his surgeon on Sunday but was told the soreness last week was just normal wear.
Sorry Ernie things didn’t work out this time BUT this below will make you smile.
An interesting piece in the St. Petersburg Times on Monday by Rodney Page.
“The United States won a close game 6-5, but the surprising part was how many good players are on the Canadian team. Russell Martin, Jason Bay Matt Staors, Justin Morneau and Scott Richmond are Canadian. Who knew?”
Jason Lane has been opening many eyes here in Dunedin BUT it should be pointed out that Jason is no rookie. He is 32 years old and has played for several major league teams.
At the University of Southern California he earned All American honors as a pitcher in 1999. In 1998 he helped USC to NCAA championship beating Arizona 21-14. Lane was DH in the game and went 3-6 including ninth inning grand slam and set a College World Series reord with 11 hits. And led tournament with .417 average.
Astros signed him as hitter rather than pitcher.
Lane hit the last home run and made the last out at Busch Memorial Stadium on October 19, 2005.
When Aubrey Huff was brought in Lane was optioned to AAA but recalled and on August 29, 2006 he hit a pinch hit grand slam off Brewers Dan Kolb in the 8th inning. Lane finished the 2006 season with 15 home runs, although he hit just .201 over 112 games.
Demoted again to AAA in 2007 Lane was called back up to the big league club.
But then traded to San Diego Padres. September 2007. Was not offered a new contract and became free agent December 2007.
Signed by the Yankees Jan 2008 and invited to spring training but didn’t make the team, opted out of his contract and signed with Boston in August and became free agent at end of last season. Signed minor league contract with Jays in December 2008Bats right and throws left.
Has 21 games post-season with 62 at bats and 4 HRs
In six seasons he has played 497 games, 1208 at bats 64 doubles 7 triples 61 HRs and 189 RBIs. .241 avge.
Here's wishing him a home at the Rogers Centre...
Monday, March 9, 2009
Jays beat those Yankees-Russ Adams for MVP ?
Monday March 9, 2009
Jays at Steinbrenner Stadium in Tampa today for Yankees. Win 6-2.
Jays lineup: Adams, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Lane, Snider, Campbell, Chavex and McDonald with Mills pitching.
Yankees: Gardner, Cabrera, Texeira, Posada, Swisher, Molina, Berroa, Leone Pena and Pettite pitching.
I win some and lose some…
Russ Adams determined to prove me wrong continued his torrid steak of the last two games…. His first HR of the spring today off Dan Giese and a great place to do it against those Yankees.
BUT I continue to be right about Brad Mills. His second start and third appearance 3 2/3 innings today, three hits and two runs, both runs coming from the Brett Gardner HR in the fourth inning. Gardner’s third of the spring.
I like Mill's chances for the rotation if he continues this way. Has been impressive in all three appearances. Walked one and struck out four.
Adams had another run in the fifth a sac fly to tie the game and the scoring was all Russ for five innings. Counting last night's game the guy has had double, triple, HR, sac fly in two days. Hot hot....
In the three run sixth though it was the Jays power. Overbay with an rbi double, Jason Lane that guy again, a sac fly and Travis Snider gets his second home run of the spring. Kennedy was the Yankees pitcher.
Casey Janssen pitched two shutout innings, two hits and two strikeouts continuing his own impressive start. Burres and Bauer finished off the last three shutout innings for the Jays.
Pettite in his first Spring start went 1 2/3 innings facing six hitters. Jays outhit the Yankees 9-8. Great win.
Jays on the road today so WarwickJay was at Bright House Field to see Reds play the Phillies an all-red shirted afternoon.
Lineups: Reds: Jones, Kepinger, Bruce, Gomes, Ward, Alonso, Francisco, Hanigan, Jarish, and Arroyo pitching.
Phillies: Bruntlett, Dobbs, (ex-Jay) Werth, Howard, Ibanez, Jenkins, Donald, Cairo, Marson, and Cole Hammels pitching.
Great seats Row 9 behind home plate, but the three rows in front of me were full of those sun bronzed baseball afficiandos, the MLB scouts.
I counted 16 today, most with their radar guns so it was interesting to see Hammels speed and some of the other pitchers.
For the record Hammels was in the low 80’s today at least,
Right in front of me was NYY Card with his panama straw hat trying to block my view I guess but didn’t work as I had a great view. I guess he was also scouting out third basemen as he didn’t get his radar gun out all game. Didn’t seem to be too excited all afternoon but the advantage of having three rows of these guys in front of you is that not one moved from his seat the whole game. That’s what I like…
Also Rob Ducey !!!!! with his baseball Canada identifier, scouting for the Jays. Can you believe this guy is 43 years old ?
To the game. Good pitching matchup with Hammels v Arroyo. Fast Forward Frasor should watch Hamels in action, he had gone through first three hitters in less time than Frasor takes to get one pitch over, great to see. Although wheels fell off in the third it was a good two innings. He is one great pitcher in my book.
The lead went back and forth most of the game until that seventh inning Grand slam by Valaika to put it away for the Reds 8-4.
But we saw lots of power this afternoon, Howard adding another HR, Jenkins, Hanigan and Alonzo but it was Valaika’s hit that sealed this one.
Good game…. 7,292 attending.
Jays at Steinbrenner Stadium in Tampa today for Yankees. Win 6-2.
Jays lineup: Adams, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Lane, Snider, Campbell, Chavex and McDonald with Mills pitching.
Yankees: Gardner, Cabrera, Texeira, Posada, Swisher, Molina, Berroa, Leone Pena and Pettite pitching.
I win some and lose some…
Russ Adams determined to prove me wrong continued his torrid steak of the last two games…. His first HR of the spring today off Dan Giese and a great place to do it against those Yankees.
BUT I continue to be right about Brad Mills. His second start and third appearance 3 2/3 innings today, three hits and two runs, both runs coming from the Brett Gardner HR in the fourth inning. Gardner’s third of the spring.
I like Mill's chances for the rotation if he continues this way. Has been impressive in all three appearances. Walked one and struck out four.
Adams had another run in the fifth a sac fly to tie the game and the scoring was all Russ for five innings. Counting last night's game the guy has had double, triple, HR, sac fly in two days. Hot hot....
In the three run sixth though it was the Jays power. Overbay with an rbi double, Jason Lane that guy again, a sac fly and Travis Snider gets his second home run of the spring. Kennedy was the Yankees pitcher.
Casey Janssen pitched two shutout innings, two hits and two strikeouts continuing his own impressive start. Burres and Bauer finished off the last three shutout innings for the Jays.
Pettite in his first Spring start went 1 2/3 innings facing six hitters. Jays outhit the Yankees 9-8. Great win.
Jays on the road today so WarwickJay was at Bright House Field to see Reds play the Phillies an all-red shirted afternoon.
Lineups: Reds: Jones, Kepinger, Bruce, Gomes, Ward, Alonso, Francisco, Hanigan, Jarish, and Arroyo pitching.
Phillies: Bruntlett, Dobbs, (ex-Jay) Werth, Howard, Ibanez, Jenkins, Donald, Cairo, Marson, and Cole Hammels pitching.
Great seats Row 9 behind home plate, but the three rows in front of me were full of those sun bronzed baseball afficiandos, the MLB scouts.
I counted 16 today, most with their radar guns so it was interesting to see Hammels speed and some of the other pitchers.
For the record Hammels was in the low 80’s today at least,
Right in front of me was NYY Card with his panama straw hat trying to block my view I guess but didn’t work as I had a great view. I guess he was also scouting out third basemen as he didn’t get his radar gun out all game. Didn’t seem to be too excited all afternoon but the advantage of having three rows of these guys in front of you is that not one moved from his seat the whole game. That’s what I like…
Also Rob Ducey !!!!! with his baseball Canada identifier, scouting for the Jays. Can you believe this guy is 43 years old ?
To the game. Good pitching matchup with Hammels v Arroyo. Fast Forward Frasor should watch Hamels in action, he had gone through first three hitters in less time than Frasor takes to get one pitch over, great to see. Although wheels fell off in the third it was a good two innings. He is one great pitcher in my book.
The lead went back and forth most of the game until that seventh inning Grand slam by Valaika to put it away for the Reds 8-4.
But we saw lots of power this afternoon, Howard adding another HR, Jenkins, Hanigan and Alonzo but it was Valaika’s hit that sealed this one.
Good game…. 7,292 attending.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Jays lose one against the Reds 6-5 in extra innings.
Revenge for the Reds for last night's loss and win at home.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett at 2B today. Coats gets start in CF, Lind, Overbay, Rolen, Snider, Barrett, Arenciba and McDonald with Purcey making his start.
Reds: Jones, Gonzalez, Dickerson, Phillips, Gomes, Nix, Keppinger, Cota Janish and Owings pitching.
Jays lose an extra innings one today in the 10th. 6-5 but Cito should be pleased with the pitching and the hitting.
Jays on the road and Adams proving me wrong gets his best game of the season two hits a double and a triple.
Scott Rolen also has a two hit game including his HR in the seventh.
Arenciba hits a two run HR in the seventh and Snider rounds out the Jays hits today.
Brad Ameus gets the error.
Purcey three innings two walks and three strikeouts nice start and going after that startng rotation spot, things are getting interesting in Jays ptching land.
Cecil gves up HR and 3 runs in his 3/1 innings
Ray had a good no hit inning. Perez was the loser in the 10th.
Reds leave 15 on base… Manager will not be happy with that.
News of Vernon, Vito says 10 days before he will be in the lineup, taking no chances.
Lineups: Jays: Inglett at 2B today. Coats gets start in CF, Lind, Overbay, Rolen, Snider, Barrett, Arenciba and McDonald with Purcey making his start.
Reds: Jones, Gonzalez, Dickerson, Phillips, Gomes, Nix, Keppinger, Cota Janish and Owings pitching.
Jays lose an extra innings one today in the 10th. 6-5 but Cito should be pleased with the pitching and the hitting.
Jays on the road and Adams proving me wrong gets his best game of the season two hits a double and a triple.
Scott Rolen also has a two hit game including his HR in the seventh.
Arenciba hits a two run HR in the seventh and Snider rounds out the Jays hits today.
Brad Ameus gets the error.
Purcey three innings two walks and three strikeouts nice start and going after that startng rotation spot, things are getting interesting in Jays ptching land.
Cecil gves up HR and 3 runs in his 3/1 innings
Ray had a good no hit inning. Perez was the loser in the 10th.
Reds leave 15 on base… Manager will not be happy with that.
News of Vernon, Vito says 10 days before he will be in the lineup, taking no chances.
Jays Spring Report Card # 1.
As Jays are on the road this afternoon I thought it would be good time for first week Report Card.
The proviso of course is that so many of the first teamers are playing for their WBC teams or injured or with the pitchers slowly pacing themselves.
Given those provisos there are some obvious signs.
A ++ Halladay and Jason Lane. Halladay looks as if he could go right now, he is so obviously focused and prepared, every pitch this week in the two games has been right on the money. Only 3 hits and one walk facing 18 hitters. He says he is still working on refining but he would give any lineup a hard time right now.
Jason Lane …. Where did he come from? A great Spring surprise to everyone here in Dunedin. Hitting .500 on his first 20 at bats, 3 HRs (50% of total Jays HR’s so far) and he had a three hit in three at bats yesterday. The Toronto fans will love this one if he makes the squad and is not sent down to get daily at bats. But JP certainly has a great backup for Vernon.
AA Jesse Litsch also gets AA with his two outings. Looked very good yesterday.
Janssen his one inning looked very good.
Brad Amaeus another great surprise at 2B. great with his bat. Brad Emaus 3 hits in 10 at bats but one was a HR.
A Dirk Hayhurst great pitching against the Reds.
Johnny Mc… Nothing spectacular yet, but he makes great plays look so easy and he has had several of those. His bat is starting to get more pop as the week progressed. His last at bat was a few feet short of CF wall.
Cito. Yes Cito friends. He gets A for results with half the squad. He has had Lane out there for eight games and great results. Has also managed to get good pitching all round (apart from BJ Ryan, Accardo and Wolfe although both Accardo and Wolfe had good outings in their last throws.) I think he is in his element with these young hitters and has certainly produced the results.
Brett Cecil looking very good so far two games 4.2 innings two hits and seven strikeouts.
Brad Mills also an A he has been sharp.
Shawn Camp. Two games two innings of work and yet to give up a hit or walk a hitter. AND compared to Jason Frasor he is lightning fast.
Bautista although with WBC he did look very sharp in his at bats here, four hits in six at bats.
Ruiz also four hits in six at bats. Before yesterday’s game.
Travis Snider. Four hits in 10 at bats including a double and HR.
A- Millar has looked very good with his bat but at 1B has had a few adventures.
B+ Scott Campbell, loads of potential here. 5 hits in seven games but the double and triple yesterday gives him a B here.
Chavez back up catcher, great arm, looks very good behind the plate. But nothing with bat yet in his four at bats.
Rolen has looked fine in his at bats and his glove. Four at bats two hits and was robbed on at least one other by spectacular save.
B
Ricky Romero one bad outing but much better yesterday. Control issues though had walked seven before yesterday’s game
Accardo terrible outing but much better on Friday.
Overbay has only had one outing, looked tentative at bat but his glove was fine on one full length diving stop.
Aaron Hill, nothing spectacular yet but everyone is so pleased to see him out there and not looking out of place by any means. His timing is still off and pulling too much.12 at bats four hits
Scott Richmond looked average in his Team Canada game in Dunedin.
B-.
Adam Lind not yet firing consistently but shows signs. 1 HR. only two hits.
Joe Inglett, potential but has played all over the field with mixed results, would have given him a C but am being charitable. Works hard.
Barrett, fighting for that backup catching spot hitless in four at bats and this week I give the grade to Chavez if only for that great arm.
Dopirak five games and eight at bats, had a couple of good games.
Loewen 9 at bats but only two hits
C.
BJ Ryan with two lousy outings still a work in progress BUT it is still only the first week.
Russ Adams, please put him out of his misery Cito.
Curtis Thigpen still AAA and not ready.
C- . Aggression. Only 3 stolen bases. One each for Inglett, Sanchez and Barajas… hmmm… I wonder if Rios, Scutaro, Wells will make any dfference. Alex at least should be targeted for 30 this season. Vernon may shut down with his injury.
No grade:
Vernon Wells still not had an at bat but started to catch fly balls in outfield in yesterday’s pre-game activities and has been taking batting practice most of the week.
Alex Rios: very little action as he is with WBC club, had six at bats one hit. ditto Barajas, Scutaro hitless in six at bats.
Of the other minor leaguers. Hard to judge Arenciba, Ahrens, Jeroloman and Cannon (only one game but a hit in 2 at bats). Coats only 2 at bats.
Over in the NL..
My prediction (this week) is the Braves for October.
AND one season in the future.... Phillies Young John Mayberry jr. for batting title. Get his rookie card friends.
The proviso of course is that so many of the first teamers are playing for their WBC teams or injured or with the pitchers slowly pacing themselves.
Given those provisos there are some obvious signs.
A ++ Halladay and Jason Lane. Halladay looks as if he could go right now, he is so obviously focused and prepared, every pitch this week in the two games has been right on the money. Only 3 hits and one walk facing 18 hitters. He says he is still working on refining but he would give any lineup a hard time right now.
Jason Lane …. Where did he come from? A great Spring surprise to everyone here in Dunedin. Hitting .500 on his first 20 at bats, 3 HRs (50% of total Jays HR’s so far) and he had a three hit in three at bats yesterday. The Toronto fans will love this one if he makes the squad and is not sent down to get daily at bats. But JP certainly has a great backup for Vernon.
AA Jesse Litsch also gets AA with his two outings. Looked very good yesterday.
Janssen his one inning looked very good.
Brad Amaeus another great surprise at 2B. great with his bat. Brad Emaus 3 hits in 10 at bats but one was a HR.
A Dirk Hayhurst great pitching against the Reds.
Johnny Mc… Nothing spectacular yet, but he makes great plays look so easy and he has had several of those. His bat is starting to get more pop as the week progressed. His last at bat was a few feet short of CF wall.
Cito. Yes Cito friends. He gets A for results with half the squad. He has had Lane out there for eight games and great results. Has also managed to get good pitching all round (apart from BJ Ryan, Accardo and Wolfe although both Accardo and Wolfe had good outings in their last throws.) I think he is in his element with these young hitters and has certainly produced the results.
Brett Cecil looking very good so far two games 4.2 innings two hits and seven strikeouts.
Brad Mills also an A he has been sharp.
Shawn Camp. Two games two innings of work and yet to give up a hit or walk a hitter. AND compared to Jason Frasor he is lightning fast.
Bautista although with WBC he did look very sharp in his at bats here, four hits in six at bats.
Ruiz also four hits in six at bats. Before yesterday’s game.
Travis Snider. Four hits in 10 at bats including a double and HR.
A- Millar has looked very good with his bat but at 1B has had a few adventures.
B+ Scott Campbell, loads of potential here. 5 hits in seven games but the double and triple yesterday gives him a B here.
Chavez back up catcher, great arm, looks very good behind the plate. But nothing with bat yet in his four at bats.
Rolen has looked fine in his at bats and his glove. Four at bats two hits and was robbed on at least one other by spectacular save.
B
Ricky Romero one bad outing but much better yesterday. Control issues though had walked seven before yesterday’s game
Accardo terrible outing but much better on Friday.
Overbay has only had one outing, looked tentative at bat but his glove was fine on one full length diving stop.
Aaron Hill, nothing spectacular yet but everyone is so pleased to see him out there and not looking out of place by any means. His timing is still off and pulling too much.12 at bats four hits
Scott Richmond looked average in his Team Canada game in Dunedin.
B-.
Adam Lind not yet firing consistently but shows signs. 1 HR. only two hits.
Joe Inglett, potential but has played all over the field with mixed results, would have given him a C but am being charitable. Works hard.
Barrett, fighting for that backup catching spot hitless in four at bats and this week I give the grade to Chavez if only for that great arm.
Dopirak five games and eight at bats, had a couple of good games.
Loewen 9 at bats but only two hits
C.
BJ Ryan with two lousy outings still a work in progress BUT it is still only the first week.
Russ Adams, please put him out of his misery Cito.
Curtis Thigpen still AAA and not ready.
C- . Aggression. Only 3 stolen bases. One each for Inglett, Sanchez and Barajas… hmmm… I wonder if Rios, Scutaro, Wells will make any dfference. Alex at least should be targeted for 30 this season. Vernon may shut down with his injury.
No grade:
Vernon Wells still not had an at bat but started to catch fly balls in outfield in yesterday’s pre-game activities and has been taking batting practice most of the week.
Alex Rios: very little action as he is with WBC club, had six at bats one hit. ditto Barajas, Scutaro hitless in six at bats.
Of the other minor leaguers. Hard to judge Arenciba, Ahrens, Jeroloman and Cannon (only one game but a hit in 2 at bats). Coats only 2 at bats.
Over in the NL..
My prediction (this week) is the Braves for October.
AND one season in the future.... Phillies Young John Mayberry jr. for batting title. Get his rookie card friends.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Score !!! of Reds v Jays
The score was 7-2 to the Jays...
a little gremlin took this line out of my last posting...
Must be a Yankee fan.
a little gremlin took this line out of my last posting...
Must be a Yankee fan.
Lane and Campbell win this one big for Jays.
Saturday March 7, 2009, Jays v Cincinatti Reds at Dunedin.
Lineups: Reds: Hopper, Keppinger, Bruce, Philips, Nix, Frazier, Ward, Gonzalez, Hanigan, and Bailey pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Millar, Lane, Campbell, Snider, Thigpen, Adams and Jesse Litsch pitching.
First my apology to Jesse Carlson for omitting him last night, sorry Jesse especially when you had a good inning.
Today an explosion by Jays hitters 16 hits but the day belongs to young Jason Lane 3 for 3 today to add to his already impressive week’s work. Lane is now 10-20 in his eight games and 20 total bases and include 3 HRs. No HR’s today but two singles and another double. This kid is good…
Not to be outdone Campbell had two more hits a double and a triple his first of the season.
This was a good win against Reds who have already beaten the Yankees, Boston, Phillies and the Rays this spring.
Add in some good pitching by Litsch, Romero, Heyhurst and Wolfe and another HR from Kevin Millar, his second of the spring and that was the game.
Played in 80 degree heat today friends this one was HOT….Inglett playing at SS today, Jays Mr. utility man so far.
Hayhurst strikes out the side in the 8th and Wolfe goes three up and down to seal this one. Hayhurst now has 4 innings of work so far and has seven strikeouts. He might just be a JP steal from the Padres. One to watch.
Jesse Litsch another good outing.
My starting pitching lineup so far: Halladay, Litsch, Clement, Cecil and Mills. Would not be bad at all. Of course Richmond and Romero still hope for glory and there is a month to go before season starts. Will see how they shake out in four weeks. Richmond can do his cause a lot of good by pitching well for Canada in the WBC.
Today some small ball from Baker in the second inning, scores the Reds first run following lead off walk and after Thigpen cannot track ball in the dirt.
Bottom of the second, Jays threaten with Lane leadoff single and Snyder hit but Thigpen pops it up. Why is Thigpen still with the club ?? Chavez and Barrett are far better back-ups for Barajas.
Third inning another chance for Jays but Hill is doubled off on a line drive to SS.
Romero had much better control this outing and was able to get out of trouble after Adams had dropped foul ball.
Lane lead of the second and fourth innings with singles before his third hot in three at bats today in the sixth. Great day’s work, perhaps there is a leadoff guy Cito. By the way Waldo did appear this time before the anthems even though it may have been Baker as the catalyst. But Cito it was a great shot to see you and Baker side by side for the anthems…
Everyone was in on the hitting act today, Coats gets his first hit of the spring, and even Joe Inglett a single to lead off the 7th.
The rough: Poor Lydon gets the winning run last night and learns he is cut along with pitchers Santos, McLeary and Castro and Phillips, Cooper and Fahey.
Tomorrow Jays away but the first Spring Report card is due…
Ernie and the Canadians losing in the north…. But overall a great day for this Jays team that is certainly raising many eyebrows by their play to date, and without the big guns of Wells, Rios, Rolen, Overbay and Barajas… The bench depth is great to see and something the Yankees would love to have as if they cared when they have the Steinbrenner bank.
Cito you are doing something rght with this young group.... I give you an A.
Lineups: Reds: Hopper, Keppinger, Bruce, Philips, Nix, Frazier, Ward, Gonzalez, Hanigan, and Bailey pitching.
Jays: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Millar, Lane, Campbell, Snider, Thigpen, Adams and Jesse Litsch pitching.
First my apology to Jesse Carlson for omitting him last night, sorry Jesse especially when you had a good inning.
Today an explosion by Jays hitters 16 hits but the day belongs to young Jason Lane 3 for 3 today to add to his already impressive week’s work. Lane is now 10-20 in his eight games and 20 total bases and include 3 HRs. No HR’s today but two singles and another double. This kid is good…
Not to be outdone Campbell had two more hits a double and a triple his first of the season.
This was a good win against Reds who have already beaten the Yankees, Boston, Phillies and the Rays this spring.
Add in some good pitching by Litsch, Romero, Heyhurst and Wolfe and another HR from Kevin Millar, his second of the spring and that was the game.
Played in 80 degree heat today friends this one was HOT….Inglett playing at SS today, Jays Mr. utility man so far.
Hayhurst strikes out the side in the 8th and Wolfe goes three up and down to seal this one. Hayhurst now has 4 innings of work so far and has seven strikeouts. He might just be a JP steal from the Padres. One to watch.
Jesse Litsch another good outing.
My starting pitching lineup so far: Halladay, Litsch, Clement, Cecil and Mills. Would not be bad at all. Of course Richmond and Romero still hope for glory and there is a month to go before season starts. Will see how they shake out in four weeks. Richmond can do his cause a lot of good by pitching well for Canada in the WBC.
Today some small ball from Baker in the second inning, scores the Reds first run following lead off walk and after Thigpen cannot track ball in the dirt.
Bottom of the second, Jays threaten with Lane leadoff single and Snyder hit but Thigpen pops it up. Why is Thigpen still with the club ?? Chavez and Barrett are far better back-ups for Barajas.
Third inning another chance for Jays but Hill is doubled off on a line drive to SS.
Romero had much better control this outing and was able to get out of trouble after Adams had dropped foul ball.
Lane lead of the second and fourth innings with singles before his third hot in three at bats today in the sixth. Great day’s work, perhaps there is a leadoff guy Cito. By the way Waldo did appear this time before the anthems even though it may have been Baker as the catalyst. But Cito it was a great shot to see you and Baker side by side for the anthems…
Everyone was in on the hitting act today, Coats gets his first hit of the spring, and even Joe Inglett a single to lead off the 7th.
The rough: Poor Lydon gets the winning run last night and learns he is cut along with pitchers Santos, McLeary and Castro and Phillips, Cooper and Fahey.
Tomorrow Jays away but the first Spring Report card is due…
Ernie and the Canadians losing in the north…. But overall a great day for this Jays team that is certainly raising many eyebrows by their play to date, and without the big guns of Wells, Rios, Rolen, Overbay and Barajas… The bench depth is great to see and something the Yankees would love to have as if they cared when they have the Steinbrenner bank.
Cito you are doing something rght with this young group.... I give you an A.
Jays beat World Champs again. Where was Waldo ?
March 6, 2009. Jays v Phillies at Knology Park.
Ok friends give me a break, it was a night game and then the fireworks…sometimes you have to wait for the good news.
Lineups: Phillies: Bruntlett, Giles, Ibanez, Dobbs, Mayberry jr, Jenkins, Cervanak, Ozuna, Paulino and C. Ho Park pitching.
Jays reply with: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Lane, Emaus, Snider, Barrett, McDonald and Halladay pitching. This outfield could be the one for the future. Lind, Lane and Snyder.
Lane seems to have played every game this week and paid off bigtime tonight.
Game notes: Halladay superb. Just like his last outing, he is ready for Day 1. Walked one but had no problems with his three innings. Park was almost as good and it was pitcher’s duel for three. Cito uses six of his regular pithers tonight.
Jays get a huge blast from Lane, having just put one wide into left field bullpen the previous pitch, made no mistake next pitch over right centre field and without any wind to help him. I am sure that Cito is coaching this guy, he is definitely a keeper but that outfield is overcrowded right now. Lane has good speed as well, much faster than Adam Lind. JP has lots of very good young insurance if he wants to trade Alex or even Vernon.
It was the Jays pitching first team tonight. Tallet followed Halladay and had an awful inning, then Fast Forward Frasor. This guy was slow last season, tonight he was taking 25 seconds between pitches, I timed the guy. His poor infield could have gone for a coffee. And of course we all pray that he does not get anyone on base and sure enough he did and that made it even worse. He did manage to get out of the inning however with little damage, but oh so slow…. League, Camp, Accardo, finished it off.
Johnny Mac had a good sac fly at bat. And turned a great double play with Aaron, we missed those two last season. Brad Aameus had another good hit.
Bottom of the Jays 8th Lydon with two out double breaks the 3-3 tie.
Accardo made it interesting getting runner on in the top of the 9th but managed the win. A much better outing for Jeremy tonight than his last one.
League and Tallet had trouble but Camp was three up and down and gave Frasor a lesson on pitching fast. He was less than 5 seconds between pitches. Give me the ball and throw it.
My vote for NL MVP Mayberry jr had a rough night tonight but I still think he could be another Longoria.
This is the second win over the Phillies for Jays in just over a week, more games to come but this is good morale booster for young Jays team without Vernon and Rolen tonight. Lyle Overbay on his return to Jays after that triple hernia surgerylooked great in batting practice hitting 3 of 4 out of the park in one stretch but in the game tentative. He had one at bat where he didn’t even swing before being struck out on four pitches. BUT had a great diving save at 1B.
Inglett is not a leadoff guy, but who is with this team ? One “ to be determined”.
Where is Waldo ??? I don’t get Cito, and probably never will. The guy is Manager and a hitting specialist, so where is he during batting practice tonight ? With his pitchers? having a sleep ? a meeting with other coaching staff. Who knows, but whereas most managers are out there looking at the spring talent, Cito was nowhere to be seen. Manuel in the other dugout was meeting with two of his players, Girardi is always out there, running around, and in action, Maddon always out there but Cito ….. ambles out at the back of the line tonight just before the anthem starts.
BUT a story to his credit…. Evidently he has been working with Alex Rios this spring, changing his batting stance and moving his feet closer, he noticed that “last season” (sic) his feet were too wide apart, so friends we expect big things of Alex this season. Not sure why they didn’t make the change last season if they had noticed it but ….. will watch for Puerto Rico to win the World Baseball Classic.
Other news, don’t you love the Yankees, noting that A-Rod may be out for a long time, the comment from Yankee land is that they will just have to trade up for another 3rd base… How would you like to be Ransom and the guys in the AAA and the other Yankee farm teams? Lou Gehrig would never have got a chance with this organization.
Rays have sold out every ticketed game this spring. Jays will see them next week at Knology and Maddon has just started his starting rotation.
Phillies Brett Myers has lost 35 pounds this winter now only 222 lbs.
BJ Ryan should feel happier, Joba Chamberlain walked four of the five batters that he faced in his first inning against Canada yesterday.
Ozzie Jay remember Vancouver Sue from last year ? she is back again this year, on the Phillies dugout for a contest and won a free drink at Kelly’s.
Go Ernie on Saturday……against Team USA in Toronto.
Next game for the Jays, Cincinatti on Saturday at Knology Park and VFW day.
Ok friends give me a break, it was a night game and then the fireworks…sometimes you have to wait for the good news.
Lineups: Phillies: Bruntlett, Giles, Ibanez, Dobbs, Mayberry jr, Jenkins, Cervanak, Ozuna, Paulino and C. Ho Park pitching.
Jays reply with: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Overbay, Lane, Emaus, Snider, Barrett, McDonald and Halladay pitching. This outfield could be the one for the future. Lind, Lane and Snyder.
Lane seems to have played every game this week and paid off bigtime tonight.
Game notes: Halladay superb. Just like his last outing, he is ready for Day 1. Walked one but had no problems with his three innings. Park was almost as good and it was pitcher’s duel for three. Cito uses six of his regular pithers tonight.
Jays get a huge blast from Lane, having just put one wide into left field bullpen the previous pitch, made no mistake next pitch over right centre field and without any wind to help him. I am sure that Cito is coaching this guy, he is definitely a keeper but that outfield is overcrowded right now. Lane has good speed as well, much faster than Adam Lind. JP has lots of very good young insurance if he wants to trade Alex or even Vernon.
It was the Jays pitching first team tonight. Tallet followed Halladay and had an awful inning, then Fast Forward Frasor. This guy was slow last season, tonight he was taking 25 seconds between pitches, I timed the guy. His poor infield could have gone for a coffee. And of course we all pray that he does not get anyone on base and sure enough he did and that made it even worse. He did manage to get out of the inning however with little damage, but oh so slow…. League, Camp, Accardo, finished it off.
Johnny Mac had a good sac fly at bat. And turned a great double play with Aaron, we missed those two last season. Brad Aameus had another good hit.
Bottom of the Jays 8th Lydon with two out double breaks the 3-3 tie.
Accardo made it interesting getting runner on in the top of the 9th but managed the win. A much better outing for Jeremy tonight than his last one.
League and Tallet had trouble but Camp was three up and down and gave Frasor a lesson on pitching fast. He was less than 5 seconds between pitches. Give me the ball and throw it.
My vote for NL MVP Mayberry jr had a rough night tonight but I still think he could be another Longoria.
This is the second win over the Phillies for Jays in just over a week, more games to come but this is good morale booster for young Jays team without Vernon and Rolen tonight. Lyle Overbay on his return to Jays after that triple hernia surgerylooked great in batting practice hitting 3 of 4 out of the park in one stretch but in the game tentative. He had one at bat where he didn’t even swing before being struck out on four pitches. BUT had a great diving save at 1B.
Inglett is not a leadoff guy, but who is with this team ? One “ to be determined”.
Where is Waldo ??? I don’t get Cito, and probably never will. The guy is Manager and a hitting specialist, so where is he during batting practice tonight ? With his pitchers? having a sleep ? a meeting with other coaching staff. Who knows, but whereas most managers are out there looking at the spring talent, Cito was nowhere to be seen. Manuel in the other dugout was meeting with two of his players, Girardi is always out there, running around, and in action, Maddon always out there but Cito ….. ambles out at the back of the line tonight just before the anthem starts.
BUT a story to his credit…. Evidently he has been working with Alex Rios this spring, changing his batting stance and moving his feet closer, he noticed that “last season” (sic) his feet were too wide apart, so friends we expect big things of Alex this season. Not sure why they didn’t make the change last season if they had noticed it but ….. will watch for Puerto Rico to win the World Baseball Classic.
Other news, don’t you love the Yankees, noting that A-Rod may be out for a long time, the comment from Yankee land is that they will just have to trade up for another 3rd base… How would you like to be Ransom and the guys in the AAA and the other Yankee farm teams? Lou Gehrig would never have got a chance with this organization.
Rays have sold out every ticketed game this spring. Jays will see them next week at Knology and Maddon has just started his starting rotation.
Phillies Brett Myers has lost 35 pounds this winter now only 222 lbs.
BJ Ryan should feel happier, Joba Chamberlain walked four of the five batters that he faced in his first inning against Canada yesterday.
Ozzie Jay remember Vancouver Sue from last year ? she is back again this year, on the Phillies dugout for a contest and won a free drink at Kelly’s.
Go Ernie on Saturday……against Team USA in Toronto.
Next game for the Jays, Cincinatti on Saturday at Knology Park and VFW day.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Phillies make this one close.
Thursday March 5,2009. Phillies v Team USA. At Bright House Field.
No game for Jays today, an off-day so it is my first spring 2009 trip to Bright House Field which has to be one of the most attractive ballparks anywhere. Good crowd 6,246 and great 75 degree weather. Sorry Orono Jay.
Lineups: Team USA Rollins, Pedroia, (Chipper) Jones, David Wright, Youkilis, Dunn, Braun, McCann, Victorino. And Guthrie pitching. Jeter did play but not as starter.
Phillies: Giles, Bruntlett, Ibanez, Howard, Mayberry jr, Jenkins, Ozuna, Donald, Marson, and pitcher Kendrick.
Phillies go out to an early lead on a shaky Guthrie, but USA storm back to go up 9-1… Monster Home run by Adam Dunn… Sorry JP.
Phillies make it interesting thanks to a 3 run blast by Ryan Howard to get to 9-4 and then add two more runs to shake the USA side for second day in a row in the later innings. But USA prevail and the Jays remain the only team to beat the USA in this 3 game spring series. I have to write that friends surely.
USA beat Yankees and Phillies but lose to the Jays, an omen for 2009 the ever optimist.
Highlights for me beyond the home run power of Howard and Dunn is the play of John Mayberry jr definitely getting raising a lot of eyebrows with his bat. Today he had a miserable outing at 1B but then moved to RF and made a great catch. One to keep watching. Phillies certainly think so putting him behind Howard in the lineup. With Victorino and Rollins playing for Team USA the opportunity is there for Mayberry this month, especially if the USA goes all the way to March 23rd.
Other personal highlight was sitting in row 2 behind home plate. Last time I did that at Bright game was rained out !!! so I enjoyed it even more today. Sat next to Phillies fans from Philadelphia.
Comment from yesterday’s Jays game against Team USA, it is amazing how two people can be at the same game and come away with such different opinions. Reading Team USA players today pleased with yesterday’s (loss to Jays) as it proved that they could score runs at any time. I think they overlooked the fact that the four run inning was a result of two errors by Jays, Bodirak and Adams. I would also not be too pleased with the game giveaway by Team USA in the 8th and 9th innings and certainly not by JJ Putz pitching.
Woking Jay, I hope you enjoyed dinner and Ozzie Jay, Bright House Field remembers you.
Tomorrow an evening game at Knology Park with Jays entertaining those Phillies again. Another chance to see Mayberry in action and the fireworks after the game.
Ingoldisthorpe Jay, Bright House refers to Bright House Networks an IT/telecom company in Florida.
No game for Jays today, an off-day so it is my first spring 2009 trip to Bright House Field which has to be one of the most attractive ballparks anywhere. Good crowd 6,246 and great 75 degree weather. Sorry Orono Jay.
Lineups: Team USA Rollins, Pedroia, (Chipper) Jones, David Wright, Youkilis, Dunn, Braun, McCann, Victorino. And Guthrie pitching. Jeter did play but not as starter.
Phillies: Giles, Bruntlett, Ibanez, Howard, Mayberry jr, Jenkins, Ozuna, Donald, Marson, and pitcher Kendrick.
Phillies go out to an early lead on a shaky Guthrie, but USA storm back to go up 9-1… Monster Home run by Adam Dunn… Sorry JP.
Phillies make it interesting thanks to a 3 run blast by Ryan Howard to get to 9-4 and then add two more runs to shake the USA side for second day in a row in the later innings. But USA prevail and the Jays remain the only team to beat the USA in this 3 game spring series. I have to write that friends surely.
USA beat Yankees and Phillies but lose to the Jays, an omen for 2009 the ever optimist.
Highlights for me beyond the home run power of Howard and Dunn is the play of John Mayberry jr definitely getting raising a lot of eyebrows with his bat. Today he had a miserable outing at 1B but then moved to RF and made a great catch. One to keep watching. Phillies certainly think so putting him behind Howard in the lineup. With Victorino and Rollins playing for Team USA the opportunity is there for Mayberry this month, especially if the USA goes all the way to March 23rd.
Other personal highlight was sitting in row 2 behind home plate. Last time I did that at Bright game was rained out !!! so I enjoyed it even more today. Sat next to Phillies fans from Philadelphia.
Comment from yesterday’s Jays game against Team USA, it is amazing how two people can be at the same game and come away with such different opinions. Reading Team USA players today pleased with yesterday’s (loss to Jays) as it proved that they could score runs at any time. I think they overlooked the fact that the four run inning was a result of two errors by Jays, Bodirak and Adams. I would also not be too pleased with the game giveaway by Team USA in the 8th and 9th innings and certainly not by JJ Putz pitching.
Woking Jay, I hope you enjoyed dinner and Ozzie Jay, Bright House Field remembers you.
Tomorrow an evening game at Knology Park with Jays entertaining those Phillies again. Another chance to see Mayberry in action and the fireworks after the game.
Ingoldisthorpe Jay, Bright House refers to Bright House Networks an IT/telecom company in Florida.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Pitching, pitching and more pitching wins this one for Jays.
Wednesday March 4, 2009. Jays v USA.
Cito takes this one seriously and puts out a competitive lineup with probably 5-6 possibles for opening day lineup. USA is in town.
Lineups: USA: Victorino ,Jeter, Chipper Jones, David Wright, Adam Dunn, Braun, De Rosa, Ianetta, Granderson and ex-Jay Ted Lilly pitching.
Jays respond with: Joe Inglett, Hill, Lind, Millar, Lane, Rolen, Snider, Chavez McDonald, and lhp Brad Mills.
This was a pitching duel with Jays winning this for first seven innings. Brad Mills gives another great start for three one hit one run innings. Matt Clement follows with a much better outing than his last and three more scoreless innings.
But the return of Casey Janssen after the loss of 2008 season and pitching a very good seventh to preserve a one hitter and more importantly gives JP a good night’s sleep tonight.
It was the 8th inning that the Jays train came off the tracks with Santos pitching. It was not so much Santos as his fielders behind him. First Doparik muffs a Jeter out at first with a brain spasm of trying to run him out instead of throw to Santos. Then dear Russ Adams in LF muffs a line drive and with two 2 errors Santos gives up four runs to let the USA take the lead. 5-2.
Jays go into the 8th down 5-2. Dopirak gets one back for Jays in the bottom of the 8th and then in the bottom of the 9th Jays load them up against JJ Putz who had an awful outing today. Campbell brings one in with line drive to LF but runners are held and only one runs scores. Bases still loaded Ruiz strikes out leaving Dopirak facing Putz with 5-4 game, two down and bases loaded.
He comes through bigtime for the second inning in a row with liner just inside 3rd base bag and scores two to win this one for Jays. 6-5. Dopirak ends with a two hit 3rbi afternoon (and his error but who is quibbling?)
Very well deserved win behind some excellent Jays pitching. The starting rotation is now getting to look a lot better with both Mills and Clement coming through today backed up by Janssen. Better still the win was with the younger guys. Lots of hits again for Jays, they are certainly getting them in each game. Today they had the pitching to support and win this one and that starting rotation is looking better by the day. AJ ??? who is that?
Rolen looking very good in his at bats, was robbed by Scott Rollings first at bat but came through with solid hit in the 5th.
The bad today ??? three errors by Jays, two in the 8th to let USA score four and two at 1B one by Kevin Millar doing a Bill Buckner impersonation.
And Russ Adams, why does Cito continue to use this guy ? and in the outfield ??? This team has outfielders galore and Russ really is out of place with this team.
Adam Dunn, how big is this guy ??? he is HUGE…6’ 6” and 275 llbs (Rolen b comparision is 6’4” and 250lbs ) but for a giant of a man he is incredibly quick on his feet and made a sensational catch to prevent a double down the RF line.
But this one today friends is Jays day over Team USA celebrate it big and Cito you did ok today.
Tomorrow Jays are off but this blogger intends to see Team USA cross town to play the World Champion Phillies and I would wager that every seat is sold for this one.
For Ingoldisthorpe Jay: WBC is the World Baseball Classic, similar to the World Cup for soccer. There are 16 teams playing. Canada is in the division with Team USA and they play on Toronto starting on Saturday. The Jays have several players playing for their countries.
The 16 in four pools are Japan, Korea, Taipei, and China.Mexico, South Africa Australia and Cuba. Canada, USA Venezuala and Italy, Nethsralnds, Panama, Domican Republic and Puerto Rico.
Starts tomorrow/today whenever Thursday is in Tokyo with Japan v China.
Cito takes this one seriously and puts out a competitive lineup with probably 5-6 possibles for opening day lineup. USA is in town.
Lineups: USA: Victorino ,Jeter, Chipper Jones, David Wright, Adam Dunn, Braun, De Rosa, Ianetta, Granderson and ex-Jay Ted Lilly pitching.
Jays respond with: Joe Inglett, Hill, Lind, Millar, Lane, Rolen, Snider, Chavez McDonald, and lhp Brad Mills.
This was a pitching duel with Jays winning this for first seven innings. Brad Mills gives another great start for three one hit one run innings. Matt Clement follows with a much better outing than his last and three more scoreless innings.
But the return of Casey Janssen after the loss of 2008 season and pitching a very good seventh to preserve a one hitter and more importantly gives JP a good night’s sleep tonight.
It was the 8th inning that the Jays train came off the tracks with Santos pitching. It was not so much Santos as his fielders behind him. First Doparik muffs a Jeter out at first with a brain spasm of trying to run him out instead of throw to Santos. Then dear Russ Adams in LF muffs a line drive and with two 2 errors Santos gives up four runs to let the USA take the lead. 5-2.
Jays go into the 8th down 5-2. Dopirak gets one back for Jays in the bottom of the 8th and then in the bottom of the 9th Jays load them up against JJ Putz who had an awful outing today. Campbell brings one in with line drive to LF but runners are held and only one runs scores. Bases still loaded Ruiz strikes out leaving Dopirak facing Putz with 5-4 game, two down and bases loaded.
He comes through bigtime for the second inning in a row with liner just inside 3rd base bag and scores two to win this one for Jays. 6-5. Dopirak ends with a two hit 3rbi afternoon (and his error but who is quibbling?)
Very well deserved win behind some excellent Jays pitching. The starting rotation is now getting to look a lot better with both Mills and Clement coming through today backed up by Janssen. Better still the win was with the younger guys. Lots of hits again for Jays, they are certainly getting them in each game. Today they had the pitching to support and win this one and that starting rotation is looking better by the day. AJ ??? who is that?
Rolen looking very good in his at bats, was robbed by Scott Rollings first at bat but came through with solid hit in the 5th.
The bad today ??? three errors by Jays, two in the 8th to let USA score four and two at 1B one by Kevin Millar doing a Bill Buckner impersonation.
And Russ Adams, why does Cito continue to use this guy ? and in the outfield ??? This team has outfielders galore and Russ really is out of place with this team.
Adam Dunn, how big is this guy ??? he is HUGE…6’ 6” and 275 llbs (Rolen b comparision is 6’4” and 250lbs ) but for a giant of a man he is incredibly quick on his feet and made a sensational catch to prevent a double down the RF line.
But this one today friends is Jays day over Team USA celebrate it big and Cito you did ok today.
Tomorrow Jays are off but this blogger intends to see Team USA cross town to play the World Champion Phillies and I would wager that every seat is sold for this one.
For Ingoldisthorpe Jay: WBC is the World Baseball Classic, similar to the World Cup for soccer. There are 16 teams playing. Canada is in the division with Team USA and they play on Toronto starting on Saturday. The Jays have several players playing for their countries.
The 16 in four pools are Japan, Korea, Taipei, and China.Mexico, South Africa Australia and Cuba. Canada, USA Venezuala and Italy, Nethsralnds, Panama, Domican Republic and Puerto Rico.
Starts tomorrow/today whenever Thursday is in Tokyo with Japan v China.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Canada too much for Cito’s second team.
Tuesday March 3rd 2009 Jays v Canada
Ernie gets his revenge on return to Dunedin. I don’t understand this Jays Manager. Not that I ever have.
Big Canadian crowd in town today and yet he puts out his second stringers. The only opening Day guy in starting lineup today is likely to be Johnny Mac.
Come on Cito the fans pay your salary give them some entertainment. Millar and Overbay were hitting well in batting practice, at least give them a couple of bats and give the fans something for three innings. By the way where ARE you during the anthems? Last minute strategy with the pitchers ??? We wanted to see you shake Ernie’s hand exchanging the lineups. Ah well. Ernie had the last laugh.
This game was over on paper before we started today and that is a big shame for the fans. The Canadian lineup of Barnwell, Martin, Votto, Morneau, Bay, Teahen, Stairs, Koskie, Orr and Richmond pitching was impressive to read. Canadian baseball doing well…. 24 of the 28 in Canada’s roster are represented in 19 MLB’s teams.
Good to see Vernon Wells hitting them out in practice and perhaps he is not far off if only as DH. Lyle also seemed to have his stroke.
Jays lineup… Inglett, Adams, Campbell, Lane, Barret, Ruiz, Loewen, Coats, MacDonald, and Mike Maroth pitching.
Game recap: Jays took the early lead in bottom of 1st. Canada gets it back with two in the top of 2nd and then a third in 3rd inning.
Jays tie it up again going into the 4th but then Canada starts to move ahead with two in the 6th and one in the 8th.
Jays answer in the bottom of 8th but too late. Jays once again get their hits (11 ) today but cannot bring those hitters home.
Doubles by Adams, Ruiz and Loewen and a triple by Lydon showing great speed. Mathews gets a HR in the 8th. Campbell, Lane, Loewen and Mathews get the rbis for Toronto.
9 left on base.
One nice double play by Adams and McDonald but Adams missed a putout earlier when he fumbled a screamer right at him. No error given but the consensus around me at least was that it should have been given. So far Adams once again has not shown why he should stay up with the club.
Another double play by Emaus and Dopirak. Emaus had another strong at bat.
Mike Maroth like Romero yesterday had early control trouble walking three in two innings. Struck out three and gave up two runs. Beam and Ray had hitless innings each, Ray had one walk.
Scott Richmond pitching for Canada and hoping for a starting position in Jays lineup went 2.2 innings, four hits, two runs one walk and two strikeouts.
All the Canadians received a nice hand from the crowd, the biggest cheers were for ex-Jays Matt Stairs, Ernie Whitt and Corrie Koskie. A large group from Quebec loved their local heroes including Phillipe Aumont. Larry Walker was first base coach for Canada.
Young teenager Brett Lawrie came into the game at the end, nice touch Ernie, class act.
Dutch Jay, one for you, Mark Teahen (KC). Two great fielding plays in RF. One a catch at the wall and another strong throw to the plate to save a run. Koskie also looking strong.
Temperature today 68 with a 10 mph wind out to RF less than yesterday.
Attendance 2405.
Will be interesting to see Cito's lineup tomorrow to face USA, I would wager it will NOT be the second string.
BTW where was Chad today ??? "Take me out to the ballpark" in the seventh was left to an extremely out of tune crowd when they realised he was not there.
Tomorrow Jays face the USA.
Ernie gets his revenge on return to Dunedin. I don’t understand this Jays Manager. Not that I ever have.
Big Canadian crowd in town today and yet he puts out his second stringers. The only opening Day guy in starting lineup today is likely to be Johnny Mac.
Come on Cito the fans pay your salary give them some entertainment. Millar and Overbay were hitting well in batting practice, at least give them a couple of bats and give the fans something for three innings. By the way where ARE you during the anthems? Last minute strategy with the pitchers ??? We wanted to see you shake Ernie’s hand exchanging the lineups. Ah well. Ernie had the last laugh.
This game was over on paper before we started today and that is a big shame for the fans. The Canadian lineup of Barnwell, Martin, Votto, Morneau, Bay, Teahen, Stairs, Koskie, Orr and Richmond pitching was impressive to read. Canadian baseball doing well…. 24 of the 28 in Canada’s roster are represented in 19 MLB’s teams.
Good to see Vernon Wells hitting them out in practice and perhaps he is not far off if only as DH. Lyle also seemed to have his stroke.
Jays lineup… Inglett, Adams, Campbell, Lane, Barret, Ruiz, Loewen, Coats, MacDonald, and Mike Maroth pitching.
Game recap: Jays took the early lead in bottom of 1st. Canada gets it back with two in the top of 2nd and then a third in 3rd inning.
Jays tie it up again going into the 4th but then Canada starts to move ahead with two in the 6th and one in the 8th.
Jays answer in the bottom of 8th but too late. Jays once again get their hits (11 ) today but cannot bring those hitters home.
Doubles by Adams, Ruiz and Loewen and a triple by Lydon showing great speed. Mathews gets a HR in the 8th. Campbell, Lane, Loewen and Mathews get the rbis for Toronto.
9 left on base.
One nice double play by Adams and McDonald but Adams missed a putout earlier when he fumbled a screamer right at him. No error given but the consensus around me at least was that it should have been given. So far Adams once again has not shown why he should stay up with the club.
Another double play by Emaus and Dopirak. Emaus had another strong at bat.
Mike Maroth like Romero yesterday had early control trouble walking three in two innings. Struck out three and gave up two runs. Beam and Ray had hitless innings each, Ray had one walk.
Scott Richmond pitching for Canada and hoping for a starting position in Jays lineup went 2.2 innings, four hits, two runs one walk and two strikeouts.
All the Canadians received a nice hand from the crowd, the biggest cheers were for ex-Jays Matt Stairs, Ernie Whitt and Corrie Koskie. A large group from Quebec loved their local heroes including Phillipe Aumont. Larry Walker was first base coach for Canada.
Young teenager Brett Lawrie came into the game at the end, nice touch Ernie, class act.
Dutch Jay, one for you, Mark Teahen (KC). Two great fielding plays in RF. One a catch at the wall and another strong throw to the plate to save a run. Koskie also looking strong.
Temperature today 68 with a 10 mph wind out to RF less than yesterday.
Attendance 2405.
Will be interesting to see Cito's lineup tomorrow to face USA, I would wager it will NOT be the second string.
BTW where was Chad today ??? "Take me out to the ballpark" in the seventh was left to an extremely out of tune crowd when they realised he was not there.
Tomorrow Jays face the USA.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Accardo blows this one big time.
Monday March 2, 2009. Jays v Phillies.
Strange afternoon at Knology. Firstly Cito has been reading the blog… The team comes out aggressive from the start. They warmed up together and looked serious for a change. Then Inglett’s steal. What is this ? Then a five run lead against the World Champs and the Jays looked very sharp (despite Romero outing) and set for win number four in six games. Ah well it was good whilst it lasted and certainly warmed up a freezing crowd and quieted the many Phillies fans who had crossed town for the game.
Jays lineup: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Millar, Lane, Eamus, Dopirak, McDonald, Chavez and Romero pitching.
The believe it or not:
Romero has a horrible outing with six walks in 2 1/3 innings and only gives up one run.
Jays get a great 5th inning with five runs to take a 7-2 lead and then Accardo promptly self -destructs with a 6 run inning for Phillies to take a 8-7 lead and go on to win 12-7.
Accardo faces 13 batters for the 6 run ONE inning.
Jays make a shot in the 9th loading bases with only one out but Pinckney’s double play ball ends that dream.
However there were very good signs today. Brett Cecil in relief of the hapless Romero had a great outing with 2. 2/3 innings 3 strikeouts and only one walk. He is really showing already why they think highly of him in front office and why he could get that 5th starting position.
Phillies Carrasco gives up the 5 runs and ends up the eventual winner for Phillies, that is how strange this one was.
And for Ozzie Jay and others who have been to Knology Park. Chad the Beer guy starts to do his usual 7th inning "Take me out the BallPark" and delays to go down on his knee to propose to his girlfriend (who does accept).
Even the weather was strange today, only 57 degrees and on top of that 20mph wind blowing out to RF greatly helped the 5 HR’s 3 of them for Toronto by Lind, Amaeus and Millar who continues to rally impress this blogger.
No Rios,Wells, Rolen, or Overbay in the lineup but the bats were just fine.
Aaron getting his stroke back with two hits in his three at bats including a double. Millar continues to impress, one hit and 3rbis.
Jason Lane becoming a regular in Cito’s lineup with another good solid hit.
Chavez throw to get Sanchez stealing scond which helped Accardo but great throw. This kid has an arm.
Stolen base by Joe Inglett(but he is not my leadoff guy)
The bad apart from Romero and Accardo. Jays 3 errors today after being almost perfect this last week. Guilty were Patterson, Cannon and Sanchez.
Even the weather was strange today, only 57 degrees and on top of that 20mph wind blowing out to RF greatly helped the 5 HR’s 3 of them for Toronto by Lind, Amaeus and Millar who continues to really impress this blogger.No Rios,Wells, Rolen, or Overbay in the lineup but the bats were fine.
Other good signs. Vernon taking batting practice before the game and looking good.
Millar was hitting it out bigtime.
Next three days are games against Canada and USA preparing for the World Baseball Classic in Toronto Tomorrow Canada v Jays. Wednesday USA v Jays and then a cross-town trip to Bright House to see Phillies play the USA.
Dutch Jay, you can add Chavez to your list, along with Millar and Jason Lane. Phillies the usual Howard... looking very good today.
Strange afternoon at Knology. Firstly Cito has been reading the blog… The team comes out aggressive from the start. They warmed up together and looked serious for a change. Then Inglett’s steal. What is this ? Then a five run lead against the World Champs and the Jays looked very sharp (despite Romero outing) and set for win number four in six games. Ah well it was good whilst it lasted and certainly warmed up a freezing crowd and quieted the many Phillies fans who had crossed town for the game.
Jays lineup: Inglett, Hill, Lind, Millar, Lane, Eamus, Dopirak, McDonald, Chavez and Romero pitching.
The believe it or not:
Romero has a horrible outing with six walks in 2 1/3 innings and only gives up one run.
Jays get a great 5th inning with five runs to take a 7-2 lead and then Accardo promptly self -destructs with a 6 run inning for Phillies to take a 8-7 lead and go on to win 12-7.
Accardo faces 13 batters for the 6 run ONE inning.
Jays make a shot in the 9th loading bases with only one out but Pinckney’s double play ball ends that dream.
However there were very good signs today. Brett Cecil in relief of the hapless Romero had a great outing with 2. 2/3 innings 3 strikeouts and only one walk. He is really showing already why they think highly of him in front office and why he could get that 5th starting position.
Phillies Carrasco gives up the 5 runs and ends up the eventual winner for Phillies, that is how strange this one was.
And for Ozzie Jay and others who have been to Knology Park. Chad the Beer guy starts to do his usual 7th inning "Take me out the BallPark" and delays to go down on his knee to propose to his girlfriend (who does accept).
Even the weather was strange today, only 57 degrees and on top of that 20mph wind blowing out to RF greatly helped the 5 HR’s 3 of them for Toronto by Lind, Amaeus and Millar who continues to rally impress this blogger.
No Rios,Wells, Rolen, or Overbay in the lineup but the bats were just fine.
Aaron getting his stroke back with two hits in his three at bats including a double. Millar continues to impress, one hit and 3rbis.
Jason Lane becoming a regular in Cito’s lineup with another good solid hit.
Chavez throw to get Sanchez stealing scond which helped Accardo but great throw. This kid has an arm.
Stolen base by Joe Inglett(but he is not my leadoff guy)
The bad apart from Romero and Accardo. Jays 3 errors today after being almost perfect this last week. Guilty were Patterson, Cannon and Sanchez.
Even the weather was strange today, only 57 degrees and on top of that 20mph wind blowing out to RF greatly helped the 5 HR’s 3 of them for Toronto by Lind, Amaeus and Millar who continues to really impress this blogger.No Rios,Wells, Rolen, or Overbay in the lineup but the bats were fine.
Other good signs. Vernon taking batting practice before the game and looking good.
Millar was hitting it out bigtime.
Next three days are games against Canada and USA preparing for the World Baseball Classic in Toronto Tomorrow Canada v Jays. Wednesday USA v Jays and then a cross-town trip to Bright House to see Phillies play the USA.
Dutch Jay, you can add Chavez to your list, along with Millar and Jason Lane. Phillies the usual Howard... looking very good today.
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