3:00 AM Eastern
Every other time B.J. Ryan has ever pitched with a runner on base, that’s when.
Sorry for the late post, to those who have been waiting. I had to sweep a Fat Elvis series when I got home. By the way, I have David Eckstein and John McDonald both on my team, too, and McDonald gets the 8th and 9th, at least, when I have a lead.
Anyway, it’s almost fitting that in order to escape this terrible road trip on a good note, the Jays had to win the same game twice, but that’s exactly what happened when second-base umpire Bruce Dreckman decided that Ryan didn’t come to a complete stop before delivering an 0-1 pitch to Covelli Crisp that the Red Sox’ centrefielder popped to shallow right for the game’s final out.
That’s cool, a pitcher has to come to a complete and discernable stop before he delivers a pitch, and Ryan barely stops at the top of his delivery. There’s reason to believe that it’s a balk. But the thing is, it had only been called on him once in his entire career prior to tonight, eight years ago. Also, after the balk call, Ryan threw eight more pitches, all with the EXACT SAME MOTION, and none of those were called balks. It defies logic. If you’re going to call a balk on Ryan, call it every time until he gets to the point where he actually makes a noticeable stop once he comes set.
When John Gibbons came out of the dugout to argue with Dreckman, the first words out of his mouth were, “Why now?” A balk had never been called on Ryan any time that Gibby had ever seen him pitch, and his delivery hasn’t changed since day one with the Jays, at least (I didn’t pay all that much attention to him before). Gibbons was absolutely right, and had to get thrown out of the game there. It’s rare that an umpire actually takes away a win once the game has ended.
Again, I have no quarrel with Dreckman if he thinks Ryan is balking. The call came on the second pitch that Ryan delivered with a runner on base, so it’s fair to think that after the first pitch, someone called Dreckman’s attention to the fact that Ryan appeared to be balking, so he looked more closely and called the balk on the next pitch. If that’s what happened, though, where were the balk calls on the next eight pitches? Again – Ryan never changed his motion. It’s mind-bottling.
It got scary for a while there, too, after Crisp wound up singling to bring the tying run to the plate, but Ryan struck out Jed Lowrie, and the Jays got to celebrate again. Amazingly, after a terrible, horrible, no good, really bad 2-7 road trip, the Blue Jays will come home just 4 1/2 games out of first place in the A.L. East – only one game farther back than they were when they left.
A.J. Burnett was terrific in this game, taking a three-hit shutout two outs into the 8th inning before giving way to Jesse Carlson. Burnett took advantage of a struggling Red Sox offense by not giving them a sniff. Even with the five walks, A.J. seemed as though he wavered only once. In the 4th inning, working with a 1-0 lead and therefore, no margin for error, the Sox had runners on the corners with one out when Brandon Moss ripped a line drive up the middle. Aaron Hill charged hard to his right, dove, and at the fullest extension of his dive, snared the liner, then casually walked over to second base to complete the double play. That was the only time Burnett needed serious help from his defense.
Apologies to those of you who refuse to give credit to Burnett for anything positive that he does, but he was great tonight. And hey, that’s two wins in a row for him! I thought that couldn’t happen.
The best of the anti-Burnetters was the last caller to The JaysTalk tonight, who said that all Burnett did was beat a Red Sox team that can’t hit at all right now. That’s not an unacceptable position to hold, considering that Boston has scored just four runs in its last five games. Thing is, when I asked him if Roy Halladay had simply gotten lucky, running into a cold Boston squad in his complete-game loss on Tuesday, he said no, that Doc dominated them, and pitched great. Truth is, he did. So did Dustin McGowan yesterday, and so did A.J. tonight. Sorry, folks, he’s a good pitcher. The only thing I’ll quibble with for this game is that he walked Kevin Cash twice. Honestly, how do you do that?
Scott Rolen continued to live up to his billing as the Best Blue Jay Ever even though he failed to notch an extra-base hit for the first time in his career as a Jay. Instead, he singled in the game’s first run, giving the Jays their first lead of the series, then dropped his elbow into a Wakefield knuckler in the 5th and wound up scoring on a sac fly by Vernon Wells to make it 2-0.
Alex Rios should have had his second four-hit night in four games, with two singles, a solo shot into the monster seats, and a line drive to deep left that Manny Ramirez ran down and caught with a leap as he was running towards the wall. I swear, Ramirez has made the two best catches of his life this season, and both have come against the Blue Jays. Still, it’s kind of karmic that Rios would be robbed of a potential fourth hit, since he didn’t exactly earn the fourth one last time, the pop up that fell in between Esteban German and Tony Pena, Jr. in K.C.
Even though the road trip ended on a good note, I have to point out two unfortunate things:
1. The Jays were 2-for-11 with runners in scoring position tonight. For the nine-game trip, they were 7-for-65 for a sparkling .108 batting average.
2. What on Earth was David Eckstein thinking in the 5th inning? After his leadoff flare double to right, he tagged up from second on Matt Stairs’ fly ball that hit about 30 FEET UP THE WALL! Once it hit, he took off, but had to be held at third. Rolen, never imagining a scenario in which Eckstein would fail to score on that ball, wound up at third too, and the Sox executed the pickle play to nail Eckstein. Why would you tag up on that ball? Did Eckstein forget where he was playing? It’s strange to criticize him for a mistake of that sort, because Eck is a guy who makes his living always making the smart play, always doing the right thing, never being caught unaware. But holy schnykies, that’s a tough play to misread.
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HEY BROTHER
“MW: Sue me.”
JUST SO YOU KNOW, THIS RUDE COMMMENT IS NOT APPRECIATED BROTHER. I WAS SIMPLY CORRECTING YOU AND LETTING ALL THE HULKAMANIACS OUT THERE KNOW THAT YOU MADE A HUMAN ERROR THAT ALL OF US MAKE BROTHER. IT IS IMPORTANT FOR ALL THE HULKAMANIACS TO GET THE RIGHT INFORMATION, IT WAS NOT A CRITICISM OF YOU BROTHER. HOWEVER, YOU HAD TO BE RUDE, AND IT’S NOT APPRECIATED DUDE. I SUPPOSE THAT’S WHAT SOCIETY HAS COME TO BROTHER, PEOPLE THAT TRY TO PROVIDE CORRECT INFORMATION BEING MADE A MOCKERY OF, I DON’T KNOW WHERE IT ALL WENT WRONG BROTHER.
MW: I continue to find your personality disorder hilarious, though that feels wrong. Still, even funnier that you would be complaining about someone making a mockery of something.
- TerryTotally aside…just finished watching “The Natural”. Made me remember that I heard that theme song played when Josh Hamilton hit a bomb vs the Jays. Mike, do they play that on his every homerun? If so, very suitable..
MW: I don’t know, I don’t see every Rangers home game. But the man is Hobbsian.
- Ryanhey mike, reading griffin’s mailbag, he takes a shot at you saying he is not in your “weight division”. what’s up with that?
MW: That was mentioned last week, when that mailbag came out. I still haven’t figured out yet whether or not it was an actual shot.
- haroldMike,
I’m pretty sure they’re 4 and a half out at this point, rather than three and a half. Five wins fewer and four losses more than Boston.
Why is it, that in all of the caterwauling about John Gibbons, no one ever mentions the things he does well? His bullpen usage, to me, has always been underrated-the Jays have gotten some very good work out of some guys who were not highly touted, and I think you have to give Gibbons some credit.
A good win tonight, and excellent pitching in general this week. Maybe a good series against Chicago will calm the panic that seems to have engulfed a lot of Jays fans lately.
MW: Oops, you’re right, I’ll go fix that. Still, to have lost only one game in the standings over a 2-7 road trip is something. A lot of people criticize Gibby quite a bit for his bullpen usage, which seems at odds with reality a lot of the time to me.
- IanI tell you Mike, this team has me in such despair that when Moss walked in the ninth, I was convinced that Coco Crisp was going to hit the first three-run HR with only one man on base in the history of baseball.
Over this grim run, I’ve distracted myself with other things like going to a game at Comerica Park. What a difference a ballpark makes. Real grass, seats with incredible sight lines, no faux-hawked blathering idiot promoting anti-smoking programs between innings on the big screen, Coney Dogs…I could go on. When it comes time to put the RC out of its misery, I hope we get a real park.
Now there’s a team with the opposite problem to the Jays, isn’t it? All the talk has us losing AJ in the off-season anyway. And with Purcey doing well in Syracuse, what of Burnett for Granderson forming the basis of the season’s first blockbuster trade?
MW: If the Tigers ever did that, I believe that Dave Dombrowski would immediately lose his job, and then on his way out of his office, be run over consecutively by hundreds of angry Ford-driving Detroiters.
- Ol BrucieHave to make a correction…the Jays are 4.5 back, not 3.5. Even so, that’s pretty mind blowing when you think about it.
MW: Yup, see above.
- SteveHi Mike, I really enjoy your blog. I agree how doe David make that mistake at Fenway. It is not like he has never played at Fenway, he played there when he was with the Angels. He is not as good as some people think he is.
It was great to see AJ pitch another great game, also he seems to pitch well with Rod Barajas.
Liz
MW: He has indeed pitched much better with The Captain catching than with Zaun back there, although the sample size is quite small. It’s worth keeping an eye on, though.
- LizOK, Mike, now you’re starting to look just a little psychic, after I asked you if Papelbon balked, you said yes, but that B.J. Ryan almost does every pitch. I agree with you he almost does too, with emphasis on the almost. Around here we weren’t sure whether to scream or curl up in a fetal position when that call came through. Thank goodness the job got done and the game got won, even if it apparently takes four outs to beat Boston in the ninth at Fenway. Weird rules there, man.
So, a question. Apparently there was a closed door team meeting with players and coaches before the game. Probably overdue, but better late than never. Has anyone, on or off the record, given you any info about how that meeting went, whether it was a pep rally, a b**** session, or a threat? Thanks again, and if you’re as pyschic as you seem, how about some lottery numbers?
MW: No one has given me any info, but then, I haven’t talked to anyone, since they got home at about 4 AM and I haven’t been to the ballpark yet. And lottery numbers? Hell no. I don’t want to share the jackpot.
- kitaI was listening to the game on the radio last night so I didn’t see Ryan’s ‘balk’ but that was unbelievable. You’re right that one or more of Boston’s coaches must have said something to the umpire for him to make that call.
I’m quite sure that Paplebon balked in Wednesday’s game when he picked off MacDonald at first. Johnny Mac even mentioned that he started to move towards second as soon as Paplebon’s front leg moved which by the rules would indicate a balk. That particularly hit a sore spot with me as in my high school days I was victim of the same uncalled balk when I got picked off of first in the same manner and the ump missed it!
Good to see Wells, Rios, and Rolen get RBIs this game. The Jays pitching this series was fantastic!
- DerekWith all the statistical information you dig up on the fly (it seems) on the show, it is surprising to me that something as simply as the standings you would botch not only on the blog but on the air as well.
Unless I’m missing something or my eyes are deceiving me, the Jays are 4.5 back, not 3.5 … Right?
Don’t mean to nitpick as I’m a loyal listener and enjoy your post game almost as much as the game itself sometimes. It’s the calming voice of reassurance that helps me not go psycho after some of these Jays losses… Keep it up.
MW: You know what, that’s weird. I have mentioned it before, but so many of you caught it. I even remember during the game telling K-Rod that if the Jays won, they’d only be 3 1/2 back. I wonder how that got in my head. I need to pick up my game, hopefully Roy Halladay will punch me in the face when I get to the park.
- ColeHmm. Yesterday John Lennon (um yeah I see it), today Elvis. Mike can I send you some really good bluegrass? You might as well have the good stuff! I thought that last night, BJ looked as close to the old closer we’ve seen this spring.The fire was there, on TV looked like the 90mph’s speed was back, and most of all the arm speed and delivery looked pretty good. I think of a solid closer sort of like a goalie in hockey. The team simply plays more confidently knowing a small lead is safe later on. If all that is valid, possibly a piece of the comeback puzzle is coming into place for the Jays?
MW: I don’t know how, on TV, you could see the difference between the 89 he was throwing last week and the 91 he topped out at pre-surgery. I don’t know if you could even see that live. I have thought that Ryan has looked like his old self ever since he got back.
- Paul RyanI believe by “mind-bottling” you mean “mind-boggling”. Although bottling of the mind could be interesting…
MW: Blades of Glory. Rent it from you local Rogers video.
- KDo you still like Rios leading off, I personally do, and I hope he is there for the time being, and how long before Eckstein gets shuffled down to 8th or 9th?
MW: I still don’t like Rios leading off, never have. I don’t see Eckstein moving down in the near future, though I hope I’m wrong. Wednesday night J.P. did say that more line-up changes may be on the way, so I’m hopeful.
- Brett StegmaierAs usual,a game at Fenway is never boring.The only problem I see with AJ is he needs to be consistant and trust his stuff.There is no reason why he can’t pitch like last night every time out.I have noticed a better attitude in Burnett this season.He volenteered to pitch in relief when they needed someone and also put a gutty performence in against Detroit when he didn’t have his best.Good to see Gibby gettin fired up in defense of his closer.
I might be in the minority but I think Gibbons has done a decent job all things considered.Last season when the team wasn’t hitting,he didn’t appaer to do much. This year he is trying things to spark the sputtering offence.Juggling lineups,hit&run,bunting and taking chances were things that were a rarity last season.The major fault I see is a lack of fire.I know he respects his players but seeing him get fired up at a call right or wrong will help them get fired up.If they don’t he should get in their faces as well.This is what Doc was talking about in the spring and he’s absolutly right.
As for the umpire’s balk call,it was stupid. #1 BJ pitches like that all the time and it wasn’t called before or after.#2 As a closer,the runner on first with 2 out wasn’t a concern to him so there was no reason to think BJ was doing anything different to fool a runner was probably the last thing on his mind.
MW: I’ll give you one good reason why A.J. can’t pitch like that all the time – nobody ever has, in the history of anything, pitched that well all the time, or even the majority of the time.
- TerryI also don’t think Roy Halladay was saying in the spring that John Gibbons needs to show more fire, or get in people’s faces. He was talking about the players actually playing with more fire and urgency.
Good to see the Jays beat the Thursday curse. AJ’s awesomeness was too great for the Thor (the hammer man) to overcome. I don’t care how bad the Red Sox are hitting. Any pitcher that holds them off the score sheet for 7+ innings has pitched great. AJ is very valuable for consistently pitching well against Boston.
Also great to see is that different pitchers have stopped the last 3 losing streaks(first McGowan then Jesse and now AJ)
I know that a quality start is 6 innings pitched and 3 or fewer runs allowed. Would 9 innings pitched and 4 runs allowed be a quality start?
I always thought the quality start distinguished between a bad start and an ok start. Is there a stat that is better than a quality start? To say that the Jays have had 3 quality starts in a row seems to underestimate what the staff has done. If a great start was 7 innings pitched and 1 or 0 runs allowed the Jays would have 3 great starts in a row. I think they have.
MW: You, sir, have just created a new stat.
- JayHi, Mike:
Just a couple of minor corrections: first, the Jays are 4 1/2 out, which I believe means they lost 1 game in the standings during this horrible trip — good thing the Red Sox were also spinning their wheels during the same time frame!
Second, Burnett took the LOSS in his last start (Apr. 25 at KC) — even though he certainly pitched well enough to win. That was the night of the infamous Eckstein “dropped doubleplay ball”.
MW: Wow. I really do need to pick up my game.
- NormHello Mike:
Balk or not, I don’t think umpires working behind the pitcher in a noisy ball park should be calling it. The pitcher doesn’t hear it, he goes to the plate, the play unfolds and who knows what kind of anger and disbelief ensue. That’s no way to control a baseball game. As for the balk rule itself, would the game really be seriously affected if it were eliminated?
Jerry
MW: Yeah, it would. There would be crazy pick-offs all the time and runners would be completely lost.
- jerry lawtonThats what I was talking about yesterday Mike. Gibbons come out to defend his players, and if need be, get chucked. Judgment calls might not go your way, but when an umpire decides, out of the clear blue sky, to try and change the flow or outcome of the game, a Manager has to let them know. “Our team is not going to stand for that!” I am glad Gibbons decided to come out and show backbone for this team.
- ChrisI was thinking last night in regards to J.P. saying he doesn’t want Bonds because of the steriod issue and wouldn’t have signed Zaun because of the steriod issue if he wasn’t already here. Didn’t J.P. make a contract offer to Paul Lo Duca this off season who was also applicated in the Mitchell Report?
MW: shhhhhhhhh
- Dan M.Mike, it’s all fine and dandy that we are still only 3.5 games out but with the Yanks and the Sox struggling this was a real opportunity to string together some wins against supposedly inferior teams. This is going to bite us in the you-know-what come September.
Also, do you still think the Rays will finish fourth? Their starting rotation looks very solid. If their bullpen pitches adequate they could make serious noise.
MW: They’re actually 4.5 games out, but thank you for trusting me. I still think the Rays will finish fourth, yes.
- Chris JonesThe Jays are 4.5 games out of first in the East… not 3.5 as you constantly mention
MW: True dat. If they lose the division by a game, it’s my fault for lulling them into a false sense of security.
- ChrisIf only we could hit. The frustrating thing with this team right now is that with this staff they have the ability to go twice through the rotation and possibly win them all. It will just come down to timely hitting with RISP. Good start to the month, though. Let’s hope we have a monster homestand. The best 4th pitcher in the league is on the hill tonight. Hope the bats get woken up coming back through customs. Do you think Eckstein is having trouble adjusting to AL pitching? I have heard this mentioned about other players when they change leagues.
MW: Eckstein spent the first six years of his career in the American League, so it’s hard to imagine that he’d be stunned by the adjustment. Why only twice through the rotation?
- Aaron Ker7 glasses half-full in light of our stunning victory!
1. The Jays, in relative terms, have an offensive explosion!
- pete2. Travis Snider homered in Double A!
3. Kevin Ahrens had three hits and two triples!
4. Justin Jackson is back in the Lugnuts line-up!
5. Brett Cecil is in Double A!(He’s still, however, only getting three inning starts.)
6. After years of minor league mediocrity, David Purcey is dominating the international league! (This should give us hope for Ricky Romero because sometimes something just clicks.)
7. Ryan Patterson is hitting like a somebody again this year!
Great win. Burnett was very solid — it was fun to watch him mow down the Red Sox. There may be nothing better than a Jays win at Fenway — it just feels so much sweeter to beat them in their home park. I’m calling right now for the Jays to take at least 3 of 4 from the Chi-Sox. I think the offense will explode this weekend.
MW: Burnett was far better than very solid, and you may be right about the offense. Everybody say it with me – 50 runs on the homestand!
- CamOk, what is a “pickle play”? I know it’s not when the player who shouldn’t be occupying the base makes a sour expression on his face when he realizes he’s made an idiotic mistake… but that’s the only thing I can think of.
And to have a balk called on Ryan at that point in the game when the night before the balk WASN’T called on Papelbon… well if the Jays had end of up losing because of that, then you’d have to start wondering about things…
MW: The pickle play is just another term for a rundown. The baserunner has himself in a bit of a pickle, as it were.
- StanTerrific one game and terrible in the next.Not play ing down that A.J. didnt have a good game . Thank God he did. History does show a great deal of inconsistancy. Not hurt yet so maybe things are changing.
MW: Or – dominant one start, one earned run on six hits into the 8th the start before (but took the loss), and crappy the start before that (but got the win).
- JimHey MW. Great work on Jays coverage, both on the radio and this site. It seems you put a lot of time into it.
Taking the good with a pinch of the bad (and still looming, e.g. RISP), I’m glad we won last night. Since many others will bring up the issue of BJ’s balk vs. Papelbon’s no-balk, I’ve got some lighter questions:
1. You mentioned that the Jays out-scored the Sox in the series, while still losing the series. Tough luck, but overall a lack of offense by both teams. Any idea if there’s ever been a 1-0, 1-0, 1-0 three-game sweep?
2. Any chance the Jays will look to extend Rolen’s contract? He looks like he’s settling in well here, at least for the few games he’s played.
3. A three-parter: I liked that Gibbons came out to argue the balk call. Has a balk call ever been overturned? Also, how many times has the last out of a game been nullified due to a balk, and has a game ever been lost because of one?
MW: To answer your questions: 1 and 3 – I have no idea. 2. No. Rolen is under contract until after the 2010 season.
- BrandonMike,
I think fans/listeners should give A.J. his just due. The guy probably has the best pure “stuff” of the entire pitching rotation. I know his overall career record is somewhere slightly north of .500, but like you’ve said many times, a pitcher’s record is no reflection of how good he is. He’s had 2 decent starts in a row and I think it’s time people give this guy some credit for the good [however little it is] he does for the team. We all know he’s gonna opt out after this year and get [like you said] at least 5 years and $80 million. So lets just appreciate him while he’s still here, because if re-signs with an AL team and comes back to torch us in the future, all the nay sayers will be eating their words!!!
- BernardI also want to give a shout out to my main man Scott “The Greatest Blue Jay Ever” Rolen, who continued his hitting streak as a Jay last night. It’ll be great to watch what he can do at home tonight!!
Mike,
Do you think Gibby’s Tirade last night will get the team fired up for this homestand?
I think it’s just what the doctor ordered!!!
MW: I don’t think it’ll have anything to do with anything, but if the Jays go out and sweep the homestand, go ahead and give Gibby credit for it. He takes enough blame for stuff that has nothing to do with him.
- BernardPerhaps Eckstein saw his mom swatting a bee in the stands.
MW: Hilarious.
- BrendanHey Mike!
Observation: My son just recived his Jr. Jays package. Guess whose wristbands the kids get? No, not Frank Thomas’. Johnny Mac’s. Awesome!!
Question: Tonight is Flashback Friday’s and Duane Ward is the featured guest. In your opinion (or someone else’s if you’d like ! :) ) who ranks as the best Jays closer to date: Henke or Ward?
Thanks!
KK
MW: Well, Ward only did it for one year, though he was great, so I’ll have to give the nod to Henke. Maybe Randy Moffatt…………no, Henke.
- karim kanjiGood morning Mike,
It’s always amazing how one win seems to out the wolves at bay (for at least 1 night!)
My question relates to the trade market. On WWJP, J.P. mentioned that with respect to trade discussions, everyone keeps asking for his pitchers. But with the way the offence is going, would it not make sense to trade some pitching for a big-bopper (i.e. Adam Dunn?) Would Marcum plus a prospect be enough? (or too much?)
MW: Far, far, far too much.
- SherryMike, I am sick of this Burnett stuff. Is he a staff Ace, no. Will he be a staff ace, only if he is pitching with a sub .500 team. Is his stuff good? yes, Is he consistent? No. Should a pitcher be judged only by their record? No, but lots of good pitchers have won on bad teams. Infact on bad teams losing games can be a sign of good pitching because you’ve stuck around long enough to get the loss. Need I remind anyone that Halladay has average 8.4 innings over his last 3 games, has an ERA of 3.57 and has LOST all three…..for a bad team, at least a team playing pretty poorly. At the end of the day I am glad that Burnett is Jay and I will be sad to see him go, should he go, at the end of the season. My only wish was that he threw more strikes and walked fewer batters because it worries me every time he pitches which of jeckle and hyde we’ll get. But at the end of the day you have to take the good with the bad that a guy brings and Burnett’s good far out weights his bad.
MW: Yes, it does. At least it outweighs it.
- JWThe Eckstein play shows the lack of concentration by the team. Also, how can you say it is okay for the Jays to go 2-7 on this road trip and be 4.5 GB. The reality is, the Jays have put themselves in a very difficult position early in the season. If the Jays want to make the playoffs they will need to go on a lengthy winning streak which is something this team has not been able to do under Gibbons. In fact, I think their longest winning streak is 5 games which is kind of sad. The team will definitely not make the playoffs if they continue hitting this poorly with RISP. I am starting to believe Ricciardi was completely wrong in his evaluation of the offense.
MW: When exactly did I say it was OK for the Jays to go 2-7 on the road trip?
- aviHi Mike great work with the blog. It seems after a win it’s a good time to post this. A lot of people are calling for JP’s head and Gibbons as well. But do they think the next wave will make perfect moves and it would be a big Jay’s love in?
While I’m not a huge JP fan I had no problem with the release of Reed Johnson. It’s certainly not the first time moves have not gone according to plan(in April anyway).
Pat Gillick released a 200 game winner before he won most of those games(David Wells) and sold a 50 homer man,back when 50 meant something, to Japan for nothing (Cecil Fielder).
Gord Ash Traded David Cone for little return, got Well’s and Homer Bush for a pither coming off one of the best two year stretches in history. (Clemens,steriod aided or not). Then traded 20 game winner Wells for an injury. Not to mention glorious signings like Hansen and Hamilton. Bad moves happen in the long run releasing Reed Johnson won’t be a blip on the radar.
As for Gibbons’ toronto fans are hard on manager’s Cito Gaston was treated no better then Gibbons and he won 2 world Series.
But now people are asking should we bring Cito back?
I think fans need to relax and hope for a better May, I don’t think it can be any worse then April.
- ChrisMike, when I finally figured out that Dreckman had called a balk, I first had to check my calendar to make sure it wasn’t 1988, then the rulebook to remind myself that he had to let the play develop before moving the runner. Those kinds of things are always fun when they happen on the first-of-two last plays of the game.
Yet another example of enforcing the letter, not the intent, of the rule. Ryan–deceive a runner?–has he ever made a pickoff throw in his career? Which runner is he trying to deceive?
Somewhere, I can still hear Whitey Herzog complaining about Bert Blyleven balking on every pitch….
MW: Bert Blyleven did balk on every pitch! So does B.J., though it seems the umps decided to pick and choose when to call it. But 1988 was fun. There were, like, 483 balks called the first week of the season. That was awesome.
- J. B. RainsbergerOk the management hasn’t changed and I’m still glancing at the games and reading the blog, Sai Wordslinger.
Good article as usual Mike.
Oh man the state of umpiring! I don’t even want to get started about the arbitrary strike zone but some of the calls these days…sheesh. The balk call is a fine example of what’s wrong with umpiring. I must say it was good to see Gibbons get thrown out over it. It’s about time he got riled up about something.
I’m sure many disagree but I think the game could be improved with technology. An electronic strike zone displayed ONLY on the home plate umps visor so he KNOWS where the ball finishes and instant replay for heavens sake! I like the way the CFL has handled that. You get a certain number of challenges etc. Anyway sometimes the umpires make me want to jump through the television screen, if you know what I mean.
As for Eckstein misreading the ball…or whatever, in the 5th, it’s another example of the upgrade McDonald is over Eckstein. I don’t think McDonald makes that mistake. Can I prove it? No.
The RISP average continues to be a thorn in my side as well. I can’t understand why a team who can get a guy to second or third fairly consistently can’t score runs…it’s heartbreaking.
I do believe the team will eventually put it together. I hope it’s soon. Ernie Whitt for manager! :o)
MW: Ernie Whitt is most certainly not next in line for the manager’s job. Today’s not the day to trumpet McDonald’s baserunning savvy over Eckstein’s (as much as I love Mac), seeing as he got picked off first in the ninth the night before. And let me agree wholeheartedly that I am ALL FOR robot umps and instant replay. The cyclops works for tennis, why couldn’t it work for ball-strike calls?
- Kevin from AvonleaHey Mike
Which is the play of the year so far:
Reed Johnson flying from centre to left to flatten his brim or Micah Owings hitting a punch hit jack to tie the game in the 6th?
MW: Reed’s catch, for sure. Owings can rake, and I’ll bet you soon enough they find a place for him on the field on days when he’s not pitching.
- Ryan SHi Mike,
I felt last nights Jays Talk was one of your best. I usually give you a hard time. Yesterday we were definitley on the same page. Thanks, Go Jays Go
MW: Hmmmmmmmmm, they lose, you give me a hard time, they win, not so much. Interesting.
- brunoHey Mike,
Love the show, love the Blog.
I don’t always get a chance to listen to you after the game, but I like to catch what I can on MLB radio the next day. The problem is that the recording only catches 5 – 10 minutes of Jays Talk.
Do you know if there is any chance the Fan 590 web site could post these shows?
MW: I’m trying, I’m trying.
- ScottYES!!!! We did it. We won a game. This means that both Gibby and JP will get contract extensions…Ha Ha!!
I was really enjoying the blog this morning Mike and felt kind of confident about last nights game until i got to the bottom of your page. I cannot believe that they still went 2 for 11 with RISP. And Eck….What the hell was he thinking on that play???. Mike, i have to say that despite losing 2 of the 3 in Boston we still looked the better team. Yes, our offence was slacking AGAIN but our pitching was tremendous and our starters really deserve a pat on the back. Our defence was stellar(Aaron Hill baby!!!) and i felt the guys had a bit more confidence. Aj was amazing and in all honesty, i think the folks out there should really back off slightly and let him breathe and do what he does best.
Finally, I’ve always supported Gibby through this tough time and after witnessing that shocking bak call and seeing him come out and defend his team like that, It was awesome…i think he’ll do anything to make this go right.
My hopes are high for May and like you keep on saying Mike, “This team will hit”.
Bring on those White Sox!!!!
- Warren OwenThe win last night saves this series. Not just saves it from being a sweep but turns it from a series in which the Jays couldn’t buy a hit to one where they absolutely shut down one of the best offences in baseball (albeit a semi slumping one). Sure the Jays hit .108 for the series, but if you spend the whole season holding monster teams to anything close to three runs in three games you’re gonna win a lot more than you lose.
When one looks at the Boston/Toronto season series so far, one can’t help but be impressed with the overall results; 4-2 record with a team ERA of 2.00!
Undefeated in May! If these trends continue…A-y-y-y!
- AndySo the Jays outscored and out-pitched the Red Sox in this series. The Bosox managed to barely “out clutch” the Jays enough to scratch 2 game winning runs.
Mike – did you notice the emotion on Carlson’s face coming off the field after he got the 3rd out ? Apparantly he grew up a Red Sox fan and yesterday he fulfilled a lifelong dream to pitch in Fenway in the bigs. he gets a huge out to help the Jays. How cool was that Mike ?
Lastly – is Rolen doing all this damage against pitchers he’s faced for the first time ? I don’t have the stats but I’ll wager over half his hits are coming against pitchers he’s never faced before. How awesone is that ?
MW: Rolen had seen Grienke, Meche and Wakefield before. He’s the best Blue Jay ever, everything he does is awesome. And likewise Carlson, his story is incredible.
- Ian CMike,
This is why I like Rio’s leading off.
- He is the best base stealing threat on the team
- He is walking more this year; every 8.5 PA, in 2007 it was every 12.9 PA
- He only has good power numbers when the bases are empty
In 2007 Rio’s had 376 AB with the bases empty and had
30 – 2B 6 – 3B 17 – HR with a .553 SLG
An extra base hit every 7 AB
With runners on base in 2007 Rio’s had 267 AB
13 – 2B 1- 3B 7 – HR with a .419 SLG
An extra base hit every 13 AB
I think that this shows the leadoff spot is the best spot in the lineup for Rio’s. Leading off will give him the most opportunities to come to the plate in situations where he will be successful. Last year Rio’s was more of a table setter then a run producer, and I haven’t seen anything this year that would change my mind.
What do you think Mike?
MW: Honestly? The only thing I can think is: Rio’s?
- SteveHow much lomger is JP going to wait before admitting that Shannon Stewart does not belong on this team?He was traded away in 2003 because he was not good enough to play left field.Now 5 years later he can’t hit either and they have him at DH.This is not a slump,he is done.He didn’t hit in spring training either.That’s two months all told.I think JP does not want to admit he goofed letting Reed Johnson go instead of Stewart.I know he got a hit last night but look at the season overall.He is batting 203!This team needs hitting and power and Stewart has neither.
MW: He actually was traded in 2003 in the middle of what some people thought was an MVP season because he was going to be a free agent, the Jays couldn’t afford to re-sign him, and they could eventually get Ted Lilly for him. He had a bad month.
- Paul McCreathDo you think the Jays should go after Derek Turnbow, who has just been designated for assignment by the Brewers?
My sense is that there is a reason he’s been let go, but perhaps most of that reason is Eric Gagne.
MW: Actually, most of the reason is that he sucks. Well, probably it’s that he can’t throw strikes (168 walks in 257 2/3 IP). Also, Turnbow tested positive for steroids once, so the Jays aren’t allowed to sign him.
- CamWhat is the thought process behind having Eckstein batting second? Isn’t the second spot usually reserved for the team’s best consistent hitter with high on base average and a little pop? Why not have Eckstein continue leadoff and move Rios to second? or else leave Eckstein in the ninth hole.
MW: In order to leave Eckstein in the ninth hole, he’d had to have hit there once, which he hasn’t (for the Jays, anyway). He is hitting second because the myth of David Eckstein states that he’s good at getting on-base, and that, combined with the truth about David Eckstein (smart hitter, good bat control, doesn’t strike out much, excellent hit-and-run guy, pesky – though he gets out a lot) is enough to have him up near the top. He should be hitting ninth, though.
- JeremyMike,
can you please elaborate on this particular balk that was called on BJ?
I’ve never seen it before.
Oh, and the Jays are 4 1/2 out of first not 3 1/2.
One last thing, is it a stretch to suggest that Tampa is an 82-85 win team this year?
You don’t look at their starting pitching and puke anymore.
MW: It’s not a stretch to suggest that Tampa could win 82-85 games, though their starting pitching still has a lot of growing up to do. The balk that was called on B.J. was for not coming to a complete and discernable stop when he comes set, before delivering the pitch. Of course, he does that every time.
- simonMike, on the offence J.P. said that if the hitters aren’t what he thought they should be he failed at his job. Now…what if the O isn’t what he thought it would be. Eck, Rolen, Wells, Stairs, Overbay, Zaun, Stewart are all on the downside of their careers. To me the only point of arguement is how much baseball some of these guys have left (I think Rolen has a lot of life left) and if Wells is indeed on his downside (J.P. sure hopes not with that massive contract he handed out). If Wells isn’t, I don’t think he is due to reach the next level anytime soon, in which case we are looking at a guy that should be close to his season averages at the end. So who is Wells? A decent O weapon, not a middle of the order hitter. He is a .280 hitter with a .330 OBP, 25hrs and 93RBIs. I agree this offense has been underpreforming, but can we really expect to get enough out of these hitter to contend? And don’t mention Lyle because his career numbers project to 15hrs and 70RBIs over a season.
MW: I don’t care if Overbay slugs or not if he continues to get on base 45% of the time. I don’t think that at 31 and 29, respectively, Overbay and Wells are on the downsides of their careers. And yes, we can reasonably expect to get enough out of these hitters to contend.
- JWThe Jays are 4.5 games back and you made the same mistake during JaysTalk.
MW: It’s true.
- AriHi Mike : Have gone cross-eyed scrolling thru the replies…can’t find mine, so I will try to ask the same inane questions. Bear with me.
Nice to see a W, and with AJ throwing back-to back wins, does this mean that he is due to lose the next two?…I mean being a “.500 pitcher” and all. Gibby got vexed/tossed for what looked like a balk call…but Jamie & Pat didn’t make it clear. I use to watch the game with the sound off and Tom and Jerry on, but there is a delay that makes it difficult to do this. Can’t this be resolved? Also, when JP was on,(and I don’t agree with his(?) moral highground), he mentioned that he didn’t want to over-use Mack, because he couldn’t handle day-to-day playing. Does that make sense?
Does he have a condition(besides Eckmania) that makes it impossible to play more than one inning a week?
MW: McDonald has no condition, but he did wear down with increased playing time two years ago. I’m not sure that means anything, though. It was a balk call (and it’s Jerry and Alan now, but we do all miss Tom), and there’s nothing we can do about the delay.
- JackCould you please explain this Richard Griffin ‘weight division’ remark, as I can’t find it in his mailbag’s archives.
MW: Griff said that he didn’t think we were in the same weight division in response to a mailbag suggestion that he and I should get in the ring to fight out our opposing viewpoints on how the game should be played. I spoke to him about that today, actually, and it turns out he outweighs me! By the way, I took out your cheap shot – not nice.
- JCLMike: Heard last night that the young boy that caught that liner on the forehead just above the eye was whisked off to the hospital. He was conscious thru it all, took 7 stitches, and wanted to get back to the game, but the parents nixed that. Give Eckstein credit, he went to First Aid after the game, called the hospital, and after finding out that the kid would be alright, went to the dressing-rooms and put together some autographed goodies for him.
Good story……Jack
MW: Nice
- JackMike,
You think the Hulkster might make a phone call one of these days on Jaystalk? Haha.
Anyways, I just read that Brad Wilkerson was let go by the Mariners. JP already said he won’t sign Barry Bonds, but could Wilkerson be a logical choice if the Jays were to sign anyone?
MW: I’d rather have Jason Botts. It’s been a few years since Wilkerson has hit, though the story goes that the Jays once would have traded Rios for him.
- MarkPlease stop throwing out that ‘Overbay is getting on base 45% of the time’ garbage and misinforming people. It’s not true, and hasn’t been the entire time you’ve been saying it. Even if you throw out the first 6 games of the season he’s still not even at 43%. If you’re using a sample of numbers and not the full-season stats, you should specify that when making the claim.
MW: Sorry, I should always follow that with “against right-handed pitchers”. Right now his obp against righties is .430.
- Dan W“Amazingly, after a terrible, horrible, no good, really bad 2-7 road trip, the Blue Jays will come home just 4 1/2 games out of first place in the A.L. East – only one game farther back than they were when they left.” This is where you stated that the road trip was horrible,but suggested not all is bad. It may be true that they are 4.5 GB, but the Blue Jays cannot hit with RISP and if it continues the next horrible road trip they might endure will knock them out of the race entirely. After all, it is still early May and only one month has been completed. It is not such a big achievement for the Jays to be 4.5 GB at this stage considering the circumstances.
MW: It’s a massive achievement for them to be 4.5 back right now, considering the circumstances. Of course, it’s not their achievement, it’s everybody else in the division’s.
- aviDo you think the Jays have any interest in the recently DFA’d Jason Botts? He’s a switch hitter who can play 1B and the OF. He’s dominated AAA in the past and last year down there he hit .320/.436/.545.
With Stewart playing so crappy, it might not be a bad idea to dump him and pick up Botts who can spell LF, 1B, and DH for us. What do you think, Mike?
MW: I’ve already mentioned it. I like the idea.
- Matt SHey Mike,
I’ll jump on the bandwagon of pointing out your errors (it’s better than everyone pointing fingrs at Gibby for a change).
“Even with the five walks, A.J. seemed as though he wavered only once. In the 4th inning, working with a 1-0 lead and therefore, no margin for error, the Sox had runners on the corners with one out when Brandon Moss ripped a line drive up the middle. Aaron Hill charged hard to his right, dove, and at the fullest extension of his dive, snared the liner, then casually walked over to second base to complete the double play.”
Actually the runners were at 1st and 2nd. If they were at the corners like you stated, Hill stepping on 2nd after catching the line drive would have accomplished nothing.
You’ve made a couple of errors, but overall you’re still pretty solid (not that it matters – see Johnny Mac)
MW: Good point. You guys are really killing me – I love it!
- ScottHey Mike,
Just like to point out that the Jays have a winning % of 1.000 for the month of May. In all seriousness, couldn’t agree with you more in the sense that this ball club is due to break out. It’s just not possible to continue at this pace. As you’ve said, doing so would solidify them as the worst team to ever play baseball. On that note, I am really happy with the win & hopeful that we break out this month. I truly believe this will happen.
I know you hate when people rip out quotes but here’s yours:
“Apologies to those of you who refuse to give credit to Burnett for anything positive that he does, but he was great tonight. And hey, that’s two wins in a row for him! I thought that couldn’t happen.”
Maybe that is the case with a lot of fans. I’m not an AJ basher, could care less about his personality (Or at least don’t think it matters), and felt that he pitched a phenomenal game last night. I also happen to think that it is not all that unreasonable to be a little frustrated with his inconsistencies. Is he or is he not going to be able to locate his curve ball today? Is he going to be more careful around car doors considering his hands are his most prime assets. I don’t see you placing a red can of acid next to your coke at lunch (Sorry Mike, couldn’t think of a better analogy to reference you putting yourself in a situation that might damage your vocal chords). Accidents happen but still, it is frustrating.
AJ has an incredible amount of talent. He was on like Donkey Kong last night and it was truly great to see. Credit is given where credit is due. Don’t care about his attitude because in reality that’s conceptual with a lot of pro athletes. He’s either winning and a ‘Stone Cold’ competitor, or he’s losing and he doesn’t care. Nah, I don’t buy that. AJ’s a human and probably a great guy. Here is hoping that he wins the next one. If he does, it will surprise me more then if he doesn’t. But it certainly would make me happier if he did. I may criticize his performance, but I’d sure as H say I’m rooting for him and not bashing him.
Thanks Mike – Sorry for the Novella
MW: On like Donkey Kong?
- Christopher MarinoniOh yeah almost forgot…..not two wins in a row for the big guy…..he took the loss in KC. He pitched very well until the 8th. Very well.
MW: Yeah. Turns out it was a pretty bad night for me, blogically.
- Christopher MarinoniI question the timing of sitting Overbay last night, as I have questioned basically the timing of all of Gibby’s rest nights lately. While Scutaro certainly had hit Wakefield well, so had Lyle, and tonight he faces a lefty he can’t hit (Buehrle) and another one tomorrow who has gotten off to a great start this year. I understand that sometimes a guy’s personal illness like the flu can keep him out of the lineup, but I would think a guy on the proverbial hot seat like Gibbons would be more explanatory of such decisions.
- AriMike,
What is a “Fat Elvis Series” ?
MW: One of the simulation leagues I play in is the Fat Elvis Baseball Collective. http://www.febc.com I had to play a series last night.
- BernardMike;
Do you think Roy Halladay (2-4, 31k, 3.26 ERA, and 3 QS, (although I think that stat is up for debate), and Aaron Harang (1-4, 41k, 2.98 ERA, and 6 QS)call each other and comfort each other after each start?
They are both #1 Aces, that are not getting any run support from their respective teams, and deserve a much better record than they have.
As a #1 guy, it has to be so frustrating, going out there, doing exactly what you are supposed to do, and not have your team get enough runs to win!
- Andrew NAre you serious that Scott Rolen is the Best Blue Jay Ever or did I miss something??? Because while we are at it, I think George Bell was the BEST. Not only did he win an MVP but he had a colourful mouth and a serious drop-kick!
KK
MW: How can Rolen not be the best Jay ever? Has there ever been another one who has hit in every game he’s played and had an extra-base hit in 83.3% of his games?
- karim kanjiHey Mike, The Jays are 4.5 back not 3.5, ahhahahhaha
MW: Congrats on being the 78th person to point that out.
- The RatMike, maybe you should be worried about the lack of slugging. Lyle is a perfect example of the Jays problem. They get on base and then they hit into double plays. The Jays lead the league in DP but are in good company with the LAAs and the Red Soxs 2nd and 3rd. But problem is that the Jays have the 4th most about of ABs per HR and have the 3rd least amount of XBH. As we have seen, getting on base is only useful if someone drives you in and it is a whole lot easier to score from 1st on XBH than a walk or single. So I guess the question if, if Overbay isnt going to slug, who is going to step it up?
MW: If you’re looking to Overbay to be the big slugger, you’re looking in the wrong place. Who else? Rios, Stairs, Wells, Rolen, Lind for starters. I expect all of them to hit more than 20 homers this year.
- JWMike, check out your answer to #48 — I can hardly believe that you actually said “they’re starting pitching”…For shame!
MW: Oh, geez. Told you it was a bad day for me, blogically.
- NormHonestly Mike,
I ask for your opinion and all you can do is point out a misspelled name (Rio’s). I’m sorry it’s Rios. You need to grow up and get over yourself. Come on. I wasn’t trashing you, but you felt the need to trash me. You must have some issues that you need to tend to. If you ever wish to further yourself in your business you should stop wishing now; I could never see Tom, Jerry, or Alan treat people the way you treat your listener / readers. You’re not in their league. The only reason that you get listeners is because there are no other options in this city.
P.S. I hope that your bosses come to their senses soon.
MW: Me, too. I could use a raise. Sorry for offending, but, seriously, how do you throw an apostrophe in there?
- SteveMike,
It is about time the Blue Jays scored some runs…You know the team is in a sad state when I consider 3 runs an offensive outburst.
Hopefully returning home will rejuvenate the team.
Quick Question:
In your opinion, are the Blue Jays likely to sign / trade for a DH before the deadline?? If so, who would you consider the front runners for the job??
p.s. I hope you don’t have a ” X amount of comments answered = 8 million dollars ” clause in your contract with Big Ted…I like this blog and would be sad if it was released.
Keep up the good work
MW: No, I don’t think they’re likely to sign/trade for a full-time DH, but maybe one to use against lefties. Want to be my agent?
- Pathey mike,
a couple questions;
-does the balk get called or why doessn t it get called if/when the situation is flipped -j-mac pick off,
-who is the moral police at Rogers and/or M.L.B and/or the Toronto media , are the indescretions of D. Jeter (tax evation of $9 m), B. Meyers (spousal abuse) , A-Rod (adultery), M. Bell (impaired driving) , D. Heatley (vehicular homocide)not relavent with respect to B. Bonds’ actions. By the way, R. Tochett is employed by Rogers, right?
-appreciate the time and effort you put forth with baseball today/jays talk/the blog et al
MW: 1. Fenway Park. 2. I don’t know who the moral police are, but I couldn’t agree with your implication more.
- happyHi Mike,
AJ, at least until late in the game was having trouble spotting his curve. Am I right that he is still pitching with that fake nail? If so, how much influence would that have on his command?
MW: I think he still has the fake nail, but I can’t imagine it would have a dramatic effect on his performance. I’ll ask my wife how different it feels to have fake nails on.
- AndyMike
Do you think the hitters slow start is due to adjusting to a new hitting coach? Is Denbo asking them to think differently than they have in past with RISP?
MW: Nope, I think they’re just plain not hitting.
- DanI dont understand how BJ gets away with balking every time he pitches from the stretch. This is another example of baseballs flaws that make it difficult to understand
MW: Lots of guys don’t stop at the top of their stretch. I don’t know why they have stopped calling it.
- Brett VHi Mike, I just thought I would use a comparable to help illustrate a point you’ve been trying to make about A.J. Burnett. Let me preface this comment by stating that I to have been disappointed with the first two seasons that A.J. has had with the Blue Jays. But the disappointment has not been with his actual performance, instead merely the fact that he has only been able to start a combined 46 games within that time frame. To say I am surprised by this turn of events would be untrue but equally untrue would be the statement that I expected this to happen. I like many Jays’ fans had hoped that his string of injuries would somehow diminish, much the same way J.P. I suspect had hoped. But placing blame for circumstances out of ones controll like injuries is misguided and unfair for an athelete such as A.J. Burnett. In J.P.’s case I believe he took a gamble that A.J.’s physical problems would not be as big an issue as they were in previous years. A gamble I fully endorse and do not now in hind sight because of recent events place blame on J.P.’s decision to go out there and get at the time the most sought after free agent starter on the market. A.J. is a pitcher that if healthy enough to start 30/32 games is fully capable of winning 17-20 games if of course circumstances outside of his controll allow for that performance. To illustrate this I thought I would take a look at Burnetts career numbers and see how they stack up against the vaunted RedSox ace Beckett. Cont’d. on the next reply….
MW: Interesting. Our first two-part comment. I can’t wait for Part 2!
- TroyHi Mike, lets take a look shall we. Burnett’s numbers are as follows;
W:72, L:68, ERA:3.80, GS:183, CG:18, SHO:9, IP:1192.1, H:1028, R:558, ER:503, HR:105, BB:502, SO:1071
Beckett’s numbers are as follows;
W:79, L:54, ERA:3.74, GS:170, CG:4, SHO:2, IP:1040.2, H:927, R:475, ER:433, HR:110, BB:344, SO:988
Now lets take a look at each pitchers two most outstanding seasons.
Burnett
2002: 12-9, 3.30era, 29starts, 7CG, 5SHO, 204.1IP, 153H,84R, 75ER, 12HR, 90BB, 203SO
2005: 12-12, 3.44era, 32starts, 4CG, 2SHO, 209.0IP, 184H, 97R, 80ER, 12HR, 79BB, 198SO
Beckett
2005: 15-8, 3.37era, 29starts, 2CG, 1SHO, 178.2IP, 153H, 75R, 67ER, 14HR, 58BB, 166SO
2007: 20-7, 3.27era, 30starts, 1CG, 0SHO, 200.2IP, 189H, 76R, 73ER, 17HR, 40BB, 194SO
Now for fun lets look at an interesting year that Beckett had in 2006.
2006: 16-11, 5.01era, 33starts, 0CG, 0SHO, 204.2IP, 191H, 120R, 114ER, 36HR, 74BB, 158SO
I think its pretty obvious the point I’m making and it illustrates in a very small and limited way your position Mike and one that I share, that wins and losses are not a good or even remotely accurate way of judging a pitchers performance. Unless of course you subscribe to the theory that Beckett just goes out there and wins, he’s a gamer, and all the rest of that nonsense. If thats the case than know matter what Mike says, or heres an idea look it up and think these things through clearly. Than you’ll always be in the dark and have know idea where the light switch is.
Take care
MW: I must have missed something at the end there, because I don’t get the last two sentences. But it’s good research. The one other thing I would have included is WHIP. According to your numbers, A.J.’s is 1.283 for his career, Beckett’s is 1.221. But yes, performance-wise (outside wins and losses), they’re very similar pitchers. Nicely illustrated.
- TroyYou are right on re. using Johnnie Mac. If Eckstein’s feelings are a consideration, then what about Johnnie’s? JP talks about his breaking down. Haven’t seen any signs of that.
B.t.w. Mike, to continue your education on English usage, the term is “mind-boggling”, not “mind-bottling”.
MW: McDonald’s feelings aren’t to be considered because he’s the back-up. And go rent Blades of Glory.
- JRI think “On like Donkey Kong” might mean he had Nintendo stuff.
MW: It does seem the natural progression, I guess.
- TorgenRegarding Eckstein at the bottom of the order, I’ll take it that you’re kind of agreeing with me and leave the dead horse without too many bruises.
On another note, the balk call last night really brought the Jays’ struggles with bad luck to a new level – even the umpires wouldn’t let them win. Do you think the team can find some sort of dark humour in this situation and magically break out with 9 of the next 11? And have you spoken with Mr. Ferrell about coming out with a baseball flick?
MW: I have never spoken to Will Ferrell, though I look forward to a potential baseball flick from him. I think that they’ll throw up a 9-2 at some point, now is as good as any, but they can’t count on their pitching to stay this great, they have to hit.
- XiaoHi Mike, sorry about the confusion. I read it over and I concede its alittle muddy. What I was trying to say to the readers who subscribe to that theory of intangibles (the he just wins because of his body language and whatever else kind of nonsense that they utilize as there explanation for why A.J. is a .500 pitcher and Beckett is a “winner”) is that they are hopeless. I liken it to being in the dark with know clue where the light is. I know pretty sad attempt at being clever. The other point was that regardless of the excellent quality of knowledge you possess about these verbal/written exchanges, one should always rely on more than one source. And doing abit of research on your own is never a bad thing. Just one of the many things I’ve learned while continuing my studies at Carleton University.
Oh ya love the powder blues.
Take care
- TroyFrom the Utban Dictionary:
2. its on like donkey kong 41 up, 28 down
A phrase to denote that it’s time to throw down or compete at a high level; something is about to go down. The use of the comical video game character Donkey Kong provides comic relief but the phrase itself has greater or more significance than simply its on.
Like if you asked me how Marcum was doing after seeing him get 8 of his first nine outs by way of the strike out, I’d say
Oh yeah he’s on, on like Donkey Kong.
MW: Cool.
- Christopher MarinoniIn my view Shannon Stewart should be the everyday left-fielder and lead-off hitter for this team. Throughout his career (including the bounceback year of 2007) he has been an everyday player, and perhaps his early season struggles this year are a reflection of the fact that he is not accustomed to being in the lineup just 2 – 3 days per week. Though I do not disagree with the fact that he has a weak throwing arm, I am always surprised at the numerous posters who underestimate how difficult it is to hit ~.300 over the span of 10+ major league seasons. While his best days may be behind him, putting Stew in the leadoff spot for the next five months seems like the best option to me, particulary when compared to having an RBI man like Rios or a number-9 man like Eckstein in that role. If the name of the game is offense and winning, than to me Stew is the clear choice over Lind for 2008.
MW: I think that Lind has the potential to create far more offense than Stewart can, simply because of the power potential. Remember, he hit 11 homers in just over half a season last year as a rookie in an otherwise horrible offensive year for him. Lind should at least be given a chance to fail before the rug is pulled out from underneath him.
- SammyTo the chick who suggested trading Marcum. Wake up and smell the coffee sister. You Don’t trade a young pitcher like Marcum who is making the league minimum unless you get something of equal value…..closest thing hitting wise I can think of to Marcum would be lets say a Ryan Braun.
MW: Chick? What is this, 1956?
- PeeWeeHave you listened to PTS today and how bob McCown questioned whether the jays have a plan or not. For example,they sign John McDonald to a two year extention , then go out and get Eskstein, sign Reed Johnson and let go of him and get Shanan Stwert. What do you think of the blue jays plan?
MW: There was a question about this on The JaysTalk today. I think the plan is to assemble the best team possible, and if a better option than what you have becomes available, you go get it.
- andrewI find it ridiculous that no matter what Ricciardi does or has done to assemble this team he still is employed because Godfrey likes him. I mean, if this organization was devoted to winning wouldn’t Gibbons and Riciardi be fired already or at least be on a very short leash. What Godfrey is doing is letting his personal preference guide him instead of doing what is best for the whole organization and letting him go. Of course, It might not be time to fire Ricciardi yet, but it will be eventually if the team keeps performing so poorly offensively. If Ricciardi stays in this scenario, Godfrey should be gone as well.
MW: I don’t think it’s because Godfrey likes J.P. personally. He’s worked too long in politics, business and publishing to let personal feelings get in the way of his decision-making, I think. It’s that Godfrey believes in what J.P. is doing and has done.
- aviWell, having won 2 in a row now with shut-outs in both and being no worse than 4 1/2 games back after the terrible start to the season I have an idea … time for a parade down Yonge St. I hear it’s going to be closed on Sunday morning for a marathon or something so I say the Jays have a celebratory parade following the race and then take it right to the Rogers Centre for the game.
MW: Sounds like a plan. Hey, if it were the Leafs winning two in a row they’d be planning a parade – so why not? But what happens if they lose on Saturday afternoon?
- Peter B.Not going to happen.They are on a roll!! Undefeated this whole month.
This was No Pants Day and I was the only one celebrating it. I went uptown…yep, I was the only one!!
Seriously, though, why was Overbay in the lineup? Beuhrle owns him. Wouldn’t Scutaro or Barajas have stood a better chance?
MW: Yes, they would have.
- JackSo you gave Lester credit a few days back for the Jays hitting woes. Was this good pitching by Buehrle or the usual terrible Jays hitting?
MW: It’s hard not to give Buehrle credit, because he’s usually so good. But it’s really frustrating to try to figure out, because right now it’s impossible to know if it’s the pitcher throwing well or just the Jays being the Jays at the plate.
- Brett VRe: Comment 85
If they win then it’s time to clear space in the trophy case, and if they lose then obviously they should fire Gibbons, Riccardi, Godfrey, and the mascot, and see what we can get for Wells and Overbay. Maybe we could get Reed back from the Cubs for Wells, then we’d turn things around and it would be like 1989 all over again.
MW: That’d be a great trade, better than Tike Redman for Vernon, but only a little. But let me get this straight – win the World Series or fire everybody?
- ColinHey Mike, I was there, June 1988, Mark Eichhorn got called for three balks in one inning in Cleveland. I was also there in 1983 when Tippy Martinez of the Orioles picked off three Blue Jays in one inning off first base. (Moseby, Upshaw and Damaso Garcia) See, crazier things do happen.
MW: You had some good fortune to be in Baltimore that day in ’83. I’d have loved to have seen that live. Your memory fails you, though, it was Barry Bonnell, Dave Collins and Willie Upshaw. Also, three balks in a game for Ike, but only two in an inning. Definitely June ’88, though!
- Jim BranscomeMr. Wilner,
First time here for me – I listen to “Jays Talk” once in a while and I have to say not ever have I heard anyone “bash or humiliate” fans as you do.
You do a fair job and for the most part are on top of your game. However I think you have to stop treating Toronto fans like they just witnessed there first ever baseball game.
The Jays have been around long enough for most fans to have a pretty good handle on the game and the many strategies, moves etc that go along with it. Give them some credit and back off on treating them with such disrespect. Regardles of how off the wall some comments and/or questions are – there is no need to come back at whomever with your often snide remarks or laughs at times and your defensive stance – it’s like your afraid someone out there might know something more than you!
I have heard you numerous times give a “nasty chuckle” a “rude remark” and can just imagine when you are giving out those “long sighs” you are sitting there just shaking your head – wake up man and give it a rest! You honestly do come across like you think you are the only one with any kind of knowledge as to the game!
If it was possible for you to trade places and listen to yourself once in a while I am sure you would walk away shaking your head in wonderment as to “who the heck does this guy think he is”. Your not a “pro” Mike and I have heard you interviewing many “pro ball players” – talk about a change in personality – your intimidated by them – very meek. Maybe that’s why you come across as being the “grinch” during “Jays talk.
When you respond so negatively or to put down a fan who has taken the time to call your show with a comment and/or question it only shows your own insecurities!
Your not the only knowledgable basebaall fan out there – you are long overdue to give the fans of Toronto and the liseners of your show some respect – after all how would you look sitting behind a “MIKE” with no calls coming in – never ever “cut off the hand that feeds you”.
Overall you do a pretty good job during broadcasts and I enjoy it – however when speaking with your “public” you do remind me of the guy who “talks a good game”!
Bob
MW: Thanks for listening!
- Bob M.